Protanium

Light and durable metal, alloyed with a kiss of lightning

Protanium is a rare and precious metal alloy derived from fulgurite traces of the ore known as Arenkite (a combination of palladium and chromite). When Arenkite is struck by lightning, a spontaneous electrolytic reaction occurs and this creates a fulgurite sample of lustrous, exceptionally hard metal with a surprisingly low density. Though obviously very useful for a variety of applications (including jewelry, weaponry, and industry), Protanium has not been widely exploited due to its high melting point. Very few forges exist in the world that are capable of working fulgerized samples of raw protanium or even reforging existing artifacts composed of the precious metal. These include Manfred Klinnsmen's forge at the Montreal Academy and the ruined Great Forge of Brightmoon.

Properties

Material Characteristics

Refined protanium has a lustrous, silvery appearance and a polished protanium surface is as reflective as a glass mirror.

Physical & Chemical Properties

Protanium has the hardness of steel, a high melting point, and a low density, which makes it relatively light weight compared to metals of similar hardness. In this respect it most resembles titanium; however, titanium is far more brittle than forged protanium. Protanium is also a very poor conductor of electricity.

Geology & Geography

The rarity of protanium owes to its auspicious origins: it only forms naturally when lightning strikes arenkite. Deposits are thus considered precious to those who know how to refine the fulgurized tubes and crystals found in protanium veins.

Origin & Source

The sources of protanium are identified in the holy book known as Ages of the Sun, which identifies over a dozen places where the Thunderbird is said to have cast his lightning bolt in order to leave the gift of "White Fire Metal." Other sources indicate that the metal was known to the Precursors, who are believed to have developed a synthetic process for fabricating protanium without the need to harness random lightning strikes.

History & Usage

History

To the people of the Forbidden Zone Protanium is considered a gift of the gods, and the current lack of technical skill necessary to use this gift indicates a loss of divine favour. The cultures of Merika and Europa on the other hand view protanium solely as a construct of Precursor ingenuity.

Everyday use

The recognizable protanium artifacts currently in use are all typically relic weapons and these are incredibly rare and highly valued.

Cultural Significance and Usage

The solar priests of Pachuco and Pimaca and the spirit talkers of Arenko all use unrefined arenkite fulgurites in their traditional rites.

Refinement

Arenkite fulgurites must be smelted at exceptionally high temperatures in order to be refined into usable metal and forged into desired forms.

Type

Metal

Color

Lustrous silver sheen

Melting / Freezing Point

3000 K

Density

4 g/cm³

Common State

Fulgurized tubes and crystals