Fonujajo

Fonujajo /fonudʒaˈdʒɔ/, or fire steel, is the magic infused metal mined by the Dwarfs and forged, by them, into magic items, including swords and armor. Knowledge of the mining and forging techniques are jealously guarded by the Ujajoxoro clan.
Fonujajo is also called simply fonu /fonu/ among non-dwarfs (which the causes resentment among the dwarfs). It is known as nážéŗ ऋॏङॖल /næˈʒɛr/ in the ancient Thevan, but few beyond those of the First Age know that name. During the First Age, it 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 fonujajo 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:

1. Pour intense magical heat into the stone.
2. This results in a molten pool of lava. Continue pouring heat into the pool.
3. Begin pouring protection magic into the pool of lava, while continuing to apply heat.
4. Rapidly solidify the molten pool using strong alteration magic.

The creation of fonujajo in the way has only been attempted once by the dwarfs. The process created a very small amount (less thatn ¼ pound) and cost the lives of two of the three experiments applying energy to the stone.

Properties

Material Characteristics

Raw fonujajo 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 fonujajo 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.
Fonujajo can be honed to a razor edge and hold that edge as well as it holds polish.

Geology & Geography

The largest deposits of fonujajo are in and around Viž Nuzo and Viž Tyuot. Other deposits exist, but they all pale in comparison to this dwarfish stronghold.

History & Usage

Everyday use

It's primary use is for creating magical items.

Refinement

Fonujajo 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 fonujajo is considered by the dwarfs to be contraband. If possible, they will kill on sight any non-dwarfish possessor of the material.
Refined fonujajo 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 fonujajo 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 fonujajo 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

6300 °F

Density

.23 lb/ft³ (6.4 g/cm³)

Common State

Solid

Related Locations

• Viž Nuzo
• Viž Tyuot

Related Species

• Dwarf

Related Items

• Buezh

Related Technologies

• Magic Nullifcation Cage
• Nidnushoch Ufuch