Residuum

Residuum in its natural form a crystalline ore found underground that can be processed into different forms for different purposes. The majority of residuum mining practices occurred during the Era of Reverence (pre-0 GW) where the ore was used in divine and magical applications. Following the Godswar and subsequent destruction of the residuum industry, almost all residuum utilized between 50GW to 850GW was remnants of ore dug up hundreds of years prior. Attempts to dig for this resource were hindered by lack of sufficient tools to locate the ore as well as risk of digging too deep, entering the Underdark.

The residuum trade began once more through technological developments funded by the Vilstigen Trust within the Imperium as the need for the ore grew substantially. As more of the ore was discovered, it created an exponential growth as the ore itself could be used as a power source to fuel mining and processing efforts. In the present day, residuum mining is primarily conducted by the VRS (Vilstigen Residuum Solutions) with smaller private organizations covering more remote regions of the Mainland.

## Applications

### Raw Residuum (Glintrock)

In its raw form, residuum has a dull teal color, low refractility, is durable, and quite hard. It can be used as a lesser power source, able to generate its own power through the correct magical or technological stimulation, but its refined form is preferred if the option is present. Raw residuum for spellcasting can be used as a reagent for novice to apprentice level spells (i.e. Spells level 1-4).

Some underground creatures have been witnessed consuming raw residuum as part of their diet. Some Underdark creatures have also been reported to have residuum growing on their carapaces or rocky exteriors, providing protection and light.

### Ground Residuum (Berylshoot)

When residuum is ground up into a powder, it has a lighter teal color with a snow-like texture. Its handling requires caution as inhalation can lead to severe respiratory issues. In this form, residuum can be used as a catalyst in the crafting of magical equipment when it is mixed with other metals, creating a residuum-metal alloy commonly referred to as Neorasa. When mixed with fire, it combusts into a cerulean flame and extends the burn duration. This has applications when used in small amounts (e.g. celebrations, home decor) or used in larger amounts (e.g. traps, bombs).

Ground avulum when laced with minute traces of ground residuum is turned into an addictive street drug referred to as "Berylshoot" and is snorted or injected. Its intended effect is a more potent high, increased concentration and energy, strength and magical power, and fighting fatigue. However its side effects are severe such as paranoia and hallucinations, nausea and vomiting, seizures, heart attacks, and death.

### Refined Residuum

The practice of refining residuum is not well known as specific steps are kept secret by the manufacturers. It is believed intense heat, magical stimulation, and other unknown reagents are required to transform the ore into its purified state. Refined residuum is a bright aquamarine color, becomes even more durable and hard than its raw form, and can be divided by its carat rating. In this form it can be used as a significant energy source, fueling machinery (i.e. the Imperium's monorail system), arcane weaponry, and be used as a magical reagent substitute for expert and master magicians (i.e. Spells level 5-8).

In this form, residuum is highly sought after and quite expensive.

### Purple Residuum

Thought to be a random occurrence through the refinement process, a handful of purple residuum has been noted throughout the ages. Through word of mouth, it is believed to be the final form of residuum and impossibly beautiful and powerful. Others believe it is a misnomer and an inaccurate observation of refined residuum, that 'purple' can only be a transient state as it is too unstable.