Fonaj (/foˈnaʤ/)
Fonaj, or fire steel, is the magic infused metal mined largely by the Dwarfs and forged, by them and others, into magic items, including swords and armor. Knowledge of the mining and forging techniques are jealously guarded by the Ujajoxoro clan.
Fonaj is a shortened form of fonujajo, which is literally fire steel. While some old-school dwarfs still insist on using the long form, most now use the short form. It is known as nöžaŗö /nɔˈʒarɔ/ in the ancient Thevan. Most modern cultures and langauges use either "fonaj," or a variant of it, or nöžaŗö or a variant.
During the First Age, fonaj was used to make powerful artifacts, many of which still exist. The Ujajoxoro actively seek out and study these artifacts, hoping to improve their own techniques.
It is possible to create fonaj from raw basalt stone, rather than mining it. The specifics of the technique are known only to the dwarfs, but the basic procedure is as follows:
- Pour intense magical heat into the stone.
- This results in a molten pool of lava. Continue pouring heat into the pool.
- Begin pouring protection magic into the pool of lava, while continuing to apply heat.
- Rapidly solidify the molten pool using strong alteration magic.
Properties
Material Characteristics
Raw fonaj ore is a dark, dull red in color. It is slightly warm to the touch. Magic sensitives will notice a very faint emanation of magical energy.
Refined fonaj is dark red with flecks of brighter red. It can be polished to a mirror shine, which it will hold even after extensive abuse. It is slightly warm to the touch and emanates faint magical energy.
Fonaj can be honed to a razor edge and hold that edge as well as it holds polish.
Geology & Geography
History & Usage
Everyday use
It's primary use is for creating magical items.
Refinement
Fonaj is refined from a raw ore in a process similar to the refinement of steel from raw iron ore. However, the details of how it is heated and what additional materials are used remain a secret to all but the master aushexuža.
Distribution
Law & Regulation
Raw fonaj is considered by the dwarfs to be contraband. If possible, they will kill on sight any non-dwarfish possessor of the material.
Refined fonaj is only allowed to be in the possession of outsiders if they have been contracted to transport it. Earning such a contract is a rare feat.
Once fonaj has been forged into useful items, it's considered legal to possess by the dwarfs.
Most other organizations and nations tend to respect these rules and the dwarfs will accept the presentation of raw and refined fonaj from know enforcement organizations without repercussions.
Type
Metal
Value
Extremely valuable
Rarity
Very rare. Located at only two sites known to the dwarfs.
Taste
Strong metallic, with a slight hint of sweet
Color
Dark red to dark red with flecks of brighter red.
Boiling / Condensation Point
Unknown
Melting / Freezing Point
3480 °C
Density
.23 lb/ft³ (6.4 g/cm³)
Common State
Solid
Related Species
Related Items
Related Technologies
Comments