Thunder Runners Vehicle in Vexora | World Anvil
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Thunder Runners

Thunder Runners are similar in ways to a bobsled. The main body of the vehicle is typically between 4-6 feet in length, and 2-3 feet wide. Some models are larger to serve as a way to ship resources quickly, but a majority of them have little space for carrying miscellaneous objects. Underneath the hull of the vehicle is a large, smooth rounded base, similar to what the bottom of a canoe looks like. Connecting these two pieces are thick, rubber-like sponges that come from a type of cactus in The Tempest Preserve. These sponge additions act as some suspension for the rider, which can possibly save their lives if they fall from dangerous heights.   The unique design of Thunder Runners is found at the rear of the vessel. The back of the vehicle expands outward forming a concave, dome-like structure. Attached in the center of the vehicle’s rear is a decently sized metal cage, that is activated by the rider pulling a trigger on their steering device. When activated, the cage compresses and applies pressure to it’s contents. This is where the rider stores their fuel source: Buzz Bugs.    One of the most abundant species throughout The Tempest Preserve, Buzz Bugs are key for these vehicles to work. When they are placed in the cage of the vehicle and compressed, they panic and emit electrical shocks. When the shocks meet the Storm Gravel below the back of the ship, an explosion of energy occurs as shards of Storm Glass are formed. Because of the concave, dome-like structure at the back of the Thunder Runner, the force from the explosion propels the vehicle forward. While in motion the driver uses their steering device to extend a metal shard from the left or right of the ship, to make the ship lean toward that direction as the shard drags through the sand.    The trick to being a great pilot of a Thunder Runner is knowing the exact moment to let loose the electrical bolts from the Buzz Bugs, but also making sure not to compress the cage too tightly, as this may kill the insects. Clearly these vehicles are not used for stealth missions, as anyone within a quarter mile can usually hear the explosive power they possess.    The natives in The Tempest Preserve were the first to craft Thunder Runners, but other people on Vexora have made models themselves based on either stories or actually observing one in action. Obviously their only practical place for use is throughout The Tempest Preserve, but some people like to collect them, or display them like artwork.

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