The Starchaser

Written by StillnessandSilence

The Starchaser is a legendary vessel, originally crafted by the elusive Lusmara, the secretive sea elves of Mothalsia. Known for their unparalleled skill in shipbuilding, the Lusmara have long dwelled along the mist-laden coast, their vessels gliding through the waters like whispers of the tide. As a token of gratitude for aiding in the cure of a devastating blight that once plagued their homeland, they gifted the Starchaser to the Elves of the Dawnwood—a masterpiece of elven craftsmanship, imbued with enchantments that allowed it to navigate even the most treacherous seas.

For years, the Starchaser sailed under the banner of the Dawnwood, its voyages chronicled in song and legend. But then, without warning, it vanished. Whispers on the wind speak of the ship venturing beyond the known waters, skirting the edges of the continent of Selenia, and slipping into the realm of myth. Some claim the crew discovered a hidden sanctuary deep in the ethereal mists—a place now spoken of in hushed tones by the Fae of Mothalsia.

Seafarers and scholars alike remain captivated by the mystery, debating whether the ship was lost to the abyss or if it found safe harbor in a world beyond mortal reach. To this day, some sailors swear they have seen the Starchaser’s silver sails glimmering beneath the moonlight, drifting on the horizon like a ghost of the past.

The Missing Captain and Crew of the Starchaser

The last captain of the Starchaser was Princess Amra Morfaren of the Dawnwood, a noble leader known for her wisdom, courage, and skill as both a diplomat and a mariner. Princess Amra had been entrusted with the delicate mission of securing a peace treaty with the distant Island of Cindorria, to aid in defense agins tof Portcross. The Starchaser set sail from the Dawnwood, a symbol of elven grace and power,

The Landlocked Ship

As the years passed, a new rumor surfaced, sending a ripple of intrigue through the hearts of seafarers and scholars alike. It was said that the Starchaser, in some form, had been found—not adrift in the sea but landlocked in Sapphire Lake, within Maple Grave. The lake, surrounded by Pirate City, was often considered Propety of Cindorria. The ship was said to be strangely untouched by time, its magical hull gleaming under the sunlight, yet its crew and captain still missing.

Some even whisper that the Starchaser lies in a hidden cove, its sails still intact, its wood untouched, and its magical aura still palpably strong—but the ship remains immobile, as if it is waiting for the right person to unlock its secrets.

Features:

  • Elven Enchantment: The ship’s hull is woven with Lusmara water magic, allowing it to move gracefully even in rough seas. Some say it glides over the waves rather than cutting through them.
  • Silver-Leafed Sails: Crafted from enchanted silk, said to catch even the faintest whisper of wind.
  • Bioluminescent Trim: The ship subtly glows under moonlight, tracing its outline in soft blue and green hues.
  • Silent Running: Unlike human vessels, Starchaser makes little noise, an advantage when avoiding threats or navigating treacherous waters.
  • Hidden Cargo Hold: Some believe it carries relics from the Court of Fae Mothalsia, though none have proven this.

Armor and defense

  • Hull Material:
  • Crafted from Moonglass Timber, a rare and enchanted elven wood that is light as driftwood but stronger than steel.
  • Naturally resistant to fire, rot, and piercing weapons.
  • Slightly translucent under moonlight, making the ship appear ghostly and difficult to target at night.
  • Reinforced Keel & Ribs:
  • Lined with Mithril Filigree, enhancing durability while keeping weight low.
  • Allows the ship to withstand cannon fire or powerful waves without splintering.
  • Runed Plating:
  • Thin veins of silver and enchanted coral woven into the hull provide additional protection.
  • These runes can absorb kinetic energy, reducing the impact of ballista bolts or magic blasts.

Magical Defenses & Enchantments:

  • Aegis of the Deep:
  • A water-based barrier that can temporarily harden the surrounding ocean, preventing enemy ships from approaching too closely.
  • Veil of the Mistcaller:
  • Generates a magical fog that hides the ship, making it appear like a mirage or disappear entirely.
  • Gale Ward Sails:
  • Sails woven with elemental air magic, allowing them to redirect projectiles or disperse fire-based attacks.
  • Moonward Shielding:
  • At night, an invisible barrier absorbs a portion of incoming magic damage.
  • Some sailors claim this effect is tied to the phases of the moon, with full moons granting the greatest protection.

Nickname
Dawn Chaser
Designation
HMS
Current location
Width
25–30 feet
Length
100–120 feet
Height
Three masts, with the tallest reaching around 100 feet
Weight
70–150 tons
Complement / Crew
70

Comments

Author's Notes

The Painting is "The Captain's Cove" Acrylic on Canvas By Sorianna Choate/ StilnessandSilence I no longer own this piece, I still love how it came out.


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Mar 30, 2025 12:30 by Dr Emily Vair-Turnbull

Oooo, a mystery. I wonder if the rumours are true, or if something else has happened to the ship. I love the idea of its bioluminescent trim.   Also, that painting is gorgeous. I would put it on my wall.

Emy x
Explore Etrea | March of 31 Tales
Mar 30, 2025 21:17 by Sorianna Choate

I hope my players find it, It would be so much fun to play the rest of it out. Thank you, that's such a high compliment. It's one of the first pieces I ever sold.