Ember Beetles

Ember Beetles are small, glowing insects native to Caldera, thriving in the planet’s intense volcanic heat near lava flows. Calderans utilize these creatures in two main ways: their tough chitin shells are boiled in Charhorn Milk to create a rich, flavorful soup, while their tender, scallop-like interiors are cooked as a delicacy. As a vital protein source, Ember Beetles play an important role in sustaining the Calderan diet, blending practicality with culinary tradition.

Civilization and Culture

History

In 70 3E, when The Chosen Nine were going to destroy Caldera, they found a village of Calderans. While the Calderans were gone, Xyla turned into an Ember Beetle and spoke to a colony of the beetles. They told Xyla about the massive Calderans who eat Ember Beetles. The Chosen Nine later decided to evacuate the Calderans. Ob'Sidra agreed, but only if they could take their lifestalk with them. They brought a colony of Ember Beetles, alongside herds of Charhorns and Blaze Hogs, and a supply of Gravestalk Root. After the evacuation, Calderans continued to cultivate Ember Beetles on Illon and later Odrus. The few that escaped took root in the volcanoes of those worlds.