Eralith Tree

Description:

The Eralith Tree was the crowning jewel of Cinoth’s pre-empire jungles, renowned for its massive size, intricate beauty, and unique properties. Towering over other vegetation, these trees could reach heights of 300 feet or more, with sprawling, gnarled branches that wove together into natural canopies. Each Eralith boasted a wide trunk with an average diameter of 15 feet, its bark a deep charcoal-gray with streaks of silver that shimmered faintly in the light.

Unique Characteristics:

• Wood Grain: The wood of the Eralith was highly prized for its extraordinary grain, which shimmered with a faint iridescent sheen that appeared to shift in color depending on the angle of light—ranging from deep violet to golden amber. This made it a sought-after material for luxury goods, musical instruments, and artistic carvings.

• Fragrance: Even when cut and dried, the wood retained a soft, calming fragrance that was described as a mix of citrus and earth, adding to its exotic allure.
• Evergreen Nature: Despite being classified as a hardwood, the Eralith was an evergreen species, retaining a lush canopy of glossy, emerald-green leaves year-round. These leaves were long and tapering, their surfaces flecked with minute, star-like patterns that glowed faintly at night, earning the tree its nickname, “Starshade.”
• Slow Growth: True to its classification as a hardwood, the Eralith grew incredibly slowly, taking centuries to reach maturity. This made mature trees incredibly rare even before the Empire's exploitation.

Ecology:

The Eralith Trees were keystone species in Cinoth’s jungles, supporting countless forms of life. Their expansive root systems stabilized the soil and created microhabitats for smaller plants and insects. The trees also bore small, bioluminescent fruits known as "Eral Berries," which attracted nocturnal creatures and played a crucial role in the jungle’s ecosystem. The fruits were said to be sweet and tangy, a delicacy for both wildlife and Cinothians.

Extinction:

The Itherian Empire’s relentless deforestation for resources led to the complete eradication of the Eralith Tree. Its loss was a devastating blow to Cinoth’s ecology and culture. However, seeds and fragments of its wood have been found preserved in hidden groves and ancient Cinothian artifacts, sparking hope for its potential restoration through advanced ecological technology.