Aermov

Aermov, a bioluminescent moss, grows on the walls of caves and caverns deep underground. It thrives in cool, damp areas with no light. Many subterranean civilizations use the plant’s light to supplement existing light sources. The only civilization which uses purely aermov light is the Icetalon clan of Kethendia, which has crafted a special serum to enhance both the intensity and duration of the moss’s light.

Description

Aermov grows on the surface of damp rocks and earth. It possesses small, thin roots which find their way into the tiniest of grooves on rough surfaces, allowing it to form a thin root layer and cling securely even to walls and ceilings. From the roots grow short, flat tubular leaves. These leaves contain a still unknown mixture which emits a light-yellow glow. This glow is stronger in older plants and in plants with better access to vital nutrients.

Aermov doesn’t need sunlight to grow, leading some scholars to believe it may actually be a species of fungus instead. The moss uses nutrients from the rocks and soil on which it grows as well as from the damp cave air it is exposed to. In the right solution of minerals, aermov can survive without oxygen or a surface on which to fasten its roots for a couple cycles.

Uses

Aermov is extremely useful for lighting subterranean areas and has several advantages in comparison to the use of fire. Torches and lamps require constant fuel and ventilation, and they produce smoke which can greatly reduce the air quality when used in great number. This is especially true for subterranean cities such as Tazlina, in which there is no wind and smoke has a tendency to hang in the air, making it difficult for residents to breathe. Aermov, on the other hand, can be placed in containers for a week or more before its glow fades, requiring no sustenance for some time. With the right amount of nutrients, harvested aermov can be sustained for up to two cycles before needing replacement. Aermov also produces no smoke and keeps air quality high especially in places with little to no air movement.

The Icetalon clan of Kethendia has its own special relationship with aermov. Once per year, specially trained gatherers travel to the cave systems under Tazlina where aermov thrives and harvest the moss in such a way as to keep its roots intact when removed from the cave walls. This allows the moss to live longer while in use and in storage. The patches where the moss is removed are misted with a secret serum designed to promote the growth of aermov, leading to larger amounts of brighter moss for the next harvest. Harvested aermov is taken back to Tazlina, where it is stored in specialized terrariums until it is needed for lighting. Moss that is in use is placed into glass containers filled with the same serum, where the moss can be submerged and kept alive for about two cycles.