Lumen Compounds

Advanced alchemical formulations developed by Clan Lumen in the northeastern shore city of Vertis. Unlike typical fantasy alchemy based on mysticism, Clan Lumen's approach is systematic and evidence-based, relying on careful observation, documentation, and repeatable processes.

Signature Compounds

1. Lumina (Bioluminescent Compound)

Properties

• Produces consistent, cool light that lasts for weeks after activation
• Available in different colors (pale blue, soft amber, gentle green)
• Waterproof and resistant to wind, making it reliable in all weather conditions
• Non-flammable and safe for indoor use
• Intensity can be adjusted through proper preparation and application

Source Material

Derived primarily from a unique species of deep-water jellyfish found only in the northeastern waters of Lake Rorest, combined with specific minerals from shoreline clay deposits. The jellyfish are carefully cultivated in special underwater pens maintained by Clan Lumen specialists.

Applications

• Street illumination throughout Vertis, creating the city's famous "soft glow" effect
• Navigation markers along shorelines and waterways
• Safety lighting in mines and underwater work sites
• Signal systems for military and merchant vessels
• Household lighting for wealthy families and important public buildings

Cultural Impact

The nickname "City of Soft Light" has become synonymous with Vertis, with the distinctive blue-green glow visible to approaching ships from miles away. Annual festivals celebrate the renewal of the city's lighting, with ceremonial lighting rituals forming an important cultural tradition.

2. Preservus (Food and Material Preservation Agent)

Properties

• Dramatically extends the shelf life of perishable goods without altering taste
• Creates a microscopic barrier that prevents bacterial growth
• Safe for consumption in the quantities used for preservation
• Effective on a wide range of materials beyond just food
• Distinctive pleasant herbal scent that serves as an authenticity marker

Source Material

Created from a precise blend of salt harvested from specific Lake Rorest shallows, herbs grown in Vertis's terraced gardens, and a fermented algae compound collected during certain seasons.

Applications

• Food preservation for long voyages and winter storage
• Stabilization of medicinal ingredients and compounds
• Preservation of scholarly materials and important documents
• Treatment of building materials to prevent rot in humid environments
• Specialized variants for specific preservation needs (meat, grain, fruit)

Cultural Impact

The development of Preservus has transformed Rorestvian food security, trade capabilities, and public health. Seasonal food preservation festivals mark the agricultural calendar, while the technique has created unique Rorestvian culinary traditions featuring preserved foods prepared in specific ways.

Production and Knowledge Structure

Both compounds are produced in dedicated facilities in Vertis's Alchemist Quarter, where specialized equipment and careful environmental controls ensure consistent quality. The knowledge is structured in three tiers:

1. Basic Applications: Common knowledge among Vertis citizens
2. Formulation Knowledge: Restricted to guild-certified alchemists
3. Source Processing: Clan Lumen's most carefully guarded secrets

Production Facilities

The Alchemists' Quarter in Vertis features specialized buildings designed for safe production:

• Crystal Towers: Tall, narrow structures with extensive ventilation for volatile processes
• Underwater Cultivation Pens: Protected areas of the lake where source organisms are raised
• Drying Fields: Carefully monitored areas where treated materials are processed
• Testing Chambers: Controlled environments where batch quality is verified

Economic and Strategic Significance

Lumen compounds are among Rorestvia's most valuable exports, with certain formulations worth their weight in gold to foreign buyers. The compounds provide significant advantages:

• Trade Value: Preservus enables Rorestvian merchants to transport perishable goods over greater distances
• Military Applications: Special formulations used for troop provisions and night operations
• Diplomatic Leverage: Access to these compounds serves as an important bargaining chip in foreign relations
• Public Health: Municipal use of these compounds has reduced foodborne illness and extended growing seasons

Game Mechanics

These compounds provide the following benefits in game terms:

• Lumina: Provides light equivalent to a torch for 2-3 weeks per application without requiring fire or creating heat
• Preservus: Extends the shelf life of food by 10x the normal duration and provides +2 item bonus to saves against spoilage or contamination