Power stone

# Power stone, the Engine of the Realm

**Power stones**, enigmatic and mystical, are prized gem-like crystals found within the depths of Fayers Cove's mines. Exhibiting an otherworldly luminescence, these extraordinary stones possess potent arcane properties. Mysterious in origin, power stones are sought after for their ability to store, harness, and emit arcane energies. While their uses are diverse and have revolutionized various aspects of life in the Cove, the refinement and utilization of these crystals require great care due to their unpredictable nature and the potential for dangerous energy surges. With applications ranging from illuminating lamps to powering intricate machinery, these captivating gems remain at the forefront of Fayers Cove's technological advancements, all while retaining an air of mystique and wonder.

## Stones excavation and processing

*\* This section mirrors Aetherforge's page segment "Power stones".*

### Stones excavation

    Excavating power stones is a meticulous and delicate process, one that demands careful consideration and measured steps to ensure the safety of the miners and the preservation of the valuable crystals. When a new deposit of power stones is discovered, it triggers a well-coordinated effort that involves several key groups within Fayers Cove.

First and foremost, the masters from Aetherforge, experts in handling these arcane-infused gems, take the lead. Their expertise in power stone extraction ensures that the crystals are carefully removed from the surrounding rock, minimizing the risk of energy surges or unwanted discharges. Collaborating closely with the Aetherforge masters are mages from Lumina Arcanum. These skilled magic practitioners bring their knowledge of arcane energy manipulation to the site. Their presence is instrumental in neutralizing any potential energy outbursts and controlling the magical properties of the power stones during extraction. Members of Unyd's Forge also play a vital role in the operation. Their proficiency in crafting and smithing aids in the safe removal of the stones and their transportation back to the workshops.

The excavation process involves a meticulous mapping of the deposit, with every crystal's placement carefully recorded. This comprehensive approach ensures that the entire deposit is thoroughly extracted while minimizing the risk of leaving valuable power stones behind. One intriguing aspect of power stone excavation is the occasional discovery of already-refined stones. These pre-refined crystals raise questions about their origins and how they came to be in such a state. Some power stones are even found embedded within larger stone slabs, as if they were once part of a collapsed or long-forgotten vault, hinting at a history that remains shrouded in mystery.

### Refining the stones

Refining power stones within the forges of Aetherforge is a process fraught with danger, a testament to the mysterious and potent nature of these crystals. The inherent risks lie in the stones' innate arcane properties, which pack a formidable amount of energy. During the refinement process, the stones are cropped layer by layer, revealing their intricate magical cores.

This procedure is not for the faint of heart. The exposed energy within the crystals can unpredictably surge, causing violent outbursts of arcane power that threaten both the operator and the workshop. In response to these dangers, Aetherforge maintains a contingent of skilled mages from Lumina Arcanum. These mages oversee the safety of the guild members and play a pivotal role in mitigating the risks associated with power stone refinement. Working in tandem with skilled guild members, the mages harness their arcane expertise to control and manipulate the unpredictable energies. They help negate energy outbursts, ensuring that the workshop remains secure. Additionally, they assist in channeling the harnessed energies toward specific functions within various mechanisms, such as lamps, cog dogs, and communication devices. The presence of these vigilant mages is crucial in averting catastrophes and harnessing the remarkable potential of power stones. Through their collaboration, Aetherforge continues to innovate and produce marvels that enhance daily life in Fayers Cove.

## Innovations using power stones

Power stones have seamlessly integrated into the daily life of Fayers Cove, serving as multifaceted marvels of arcane engineering. These luminous gems have replaced conventional oil lamps, illuminating the Cove's streets and homes with an enchanting, energy-efficient radiance. The invention of "cog dogs" has eased labor burdens, with these mechanical helpers efficiently carrying heavy loads and automating various tasks, thanks to power stones supplying them with the necessary arcane energy.

* **Luminary Lamps**: Power stones are commonly used to replace traditional oil lamps, providing a bright and steady source of illumination. These enchanting lamps emit a soothing, bluish glow, making them a popular choice for street lighting, workshops, and homes across the Cove. These lamps were the first proper appliance of the power stones as a result of Master Larken Coppercoil work together with Selene Thorn and Lumina Arcanum's Masters.
* **Cog Dogs**: Powered by power stones, "cog dogs" are small mechanical constructs equipped with wheels and a cargo hold. They serve as versatile assistants for carrying materials, goods, and messages within the Aetherforge workshop, mines and around the island. These handy devices have become indispensable to many craftsmen.
* **Enchanted Clocks**: Timekeeping in Fayers Cove has been revolutionized by power stones. Enchanted clocks, used in Artisans Row clock tower and Trade House, Grey Cloaks and Golden Swords militants, maintain perfect time accuracy, and some even play pleasant chimes to mark the hours.
* **Harbor Lift Crane**: The Aetherforge workshop utilizes power stone-powered lift crane to hoist heavy materials and machinery onto Harbour. This crane is essential for loading and unloading cargo. As the only successful project of such scale and complexity, it is guarded day and night by the Golden Swords and is accessible only by the Aetherforge guild members.
* **Warming Stones**: Power stones, when embedded in clothing or small handheld objects, can store heat energy and release it gradually. These "warming stones" are especially popular during the colder months, providing a portable source of warmth for those working outdoors. The Warming Stones are also widely used in the Sanctum.
* **Arcane Heat Furnace**: A bigger and more powerful version of Warming Stones. Utilizing the power of the stones, this furnace can generate intense heat, making it ideal for blacksmiths and artisans working with metals. There are currently only two furnaces on the island: one belonging to the Aetherforge itself, and the other one given to Unyd's Forge as a token of friendship and respect.
* **Arcane Locks**: Some secure vaults and high-value storage units within Fayers Cove employ power stone-infused arcane locks. These locks are renowned for their resistance to tampering and are commonly used by businesses, banks, and even the Adventurers Guild, or so it is said to be.

## Journal

Powerstone chunk found in AetherforgePowerstone shard Master Thistle Coppercoil gave to the party
### Session 2 — «No cogdogs allowed»

*\* This section partially mirrors Session 2 page's segment "Descending into the mines".*

Kofrock Brod proceeded to provide a detailed explanation of the "cogtrains" operations, shedding light on their inner workings. The party agreed to accompany him into the mines to gain a better understanding. After a twenty-minute walk, they arrived at a set of stone doors with a smaller entrance alongside, suitable only for shorter races like halflings, dwarves, gnomes, and goblins, or taller individuals willing to crawl on all fours. The group also noticed a significant transition to power lanterns, which were equipped with smaller fractions of powerstones emitting a gentle, pulsating blue-white light, gradually replacing conventional oil lanterns. < . . . > As the group discussed their next course of action regarding the goblins and their investigation, a deafening explosion echoed from the entrance tunnel. A sudden blaze erupted, plunging the area into chaos. The group eyed the tunnel and saw the charred remains of halflings that did not make it out of the tunnels. Kofrok Brod swiftly made the decision to race outside, intending to summon reinforcements and warn others of the goblin demolition team's plan to destroy the highly volatile power stones within the cogdogs' frames. The potential consequences of such an explosion were dire, as it was believed that the release of this energy could submerge half the island beneath the Narrow Sea for all eternity.

### Session 3 — «**Trapped with cogdogs**»

*\* This section partially mirrors Session 3 page's segment "The eerie tunnels".*

Upon reaching the second level, a cluster of doors came into view, identified by the knowledgeable Finbin Applerod as dormitories. Further investigation revealed a food storage room, though it yielded nothing valuable. However, one door refused to budge. Fiddler attempted to employ his lock-picking skills and, with some success in manipulating the pins, found himself thwarted by the door's stubbornness. Closer examination exposed it as a powerlock, also known as the Arcane Lock, — a creation of the Aetherforge in collaboration with the Lumina Arcanum mages. The room behind it remained an enigma, with even Finbin unable to shed light on its contents. No one in the party possessed the means to unlock the powerlock, which now emitted a faint, eerie blue glow.

### Session 4 — «**Nosedive**»

*\* This section partially mirrors Session 4 page's segment "Nosedive".*

The party bid farewell to Fiddler, who headed straight to the tavern to rest and boast about their exploits in the mines. Meanwhile, Tobias, Dalerion, and Greg sought the promised rewards. Or so they tried. Their first stop was Master Thistle Coppercoil, the leader of Aetherforge, who had pledged substantial rewards for the successful recovery of the cogdogs. True to his word, Master Coppercoil rewarded the trio with a substantial bag containing a mix of gold and platinum coins, and another bag filled with pearls. Strangely, the second bag emitted a faint and barely audible hum. Coppercoil explained that it contained a power stone, making it a highly valuable item for the group. They bid farewell and ventured to the Trade House.

## Images and media sources

List of images and other media contributions and sources:

* The images of Powerstone chunk and Powerstone shard present on this and other pages of Fayers Cove Wiki were rendered and donated to the campaign and wiki by Alexandr Bogdanov.
* Other images on this page are AI-generated using mage.space and/or leonardo.ai web applications.