Alias: None
Origin: Kela (frozen plains)
The Frosthorn is a distinctive, horn-like fungal growth native to the frozen plains of Kela, known for its ability to capture and store water in icy conditions. Its rigid, frost-encrusted structure signals deep freeze zones, making it a vital indicator for expeditions in polar regions. The Frosthorn's water-storing properties were historically harvested by early Kela explorers for emergency hydration, and it remains a key resource for modern surveys in cold environments. Its presence indicates stable, frozen ecosystems, aiding ecological assessments.
Frosthorns thrive in Kela’s frozen plains and polar shelves, favoring icy, low-vegetation substrates where deep cold preserves their structure. They anchor in frozen soil or ice, stabilizing against wind erosion, and are absent in warmer lowlands or humid zones.
Found at high elevations, typically 2–4 km in Kela’s polar regions. Rare below 1 km where extreme cold is absent.
Kela’s polar climate, averaging below -60°C in unlit regions, supports the Frosthorn’s growth. Saethern’s stable light fosters icy conditions ideal for water capture. Frosthorns thrive in consistent deep freeze and struggle outside polar zones.
Adapted to frequent ice storms and high-altitude winds. Frost buildup is used for water storage. Seismic mantle upheavals can crack structures; mature growths are resilient. Stellar disruptions rarely affect their isolated habitats.
Frosthorns live 10–20 years, with slow early growth and steady water accumulation. They reach maturity at about 5 years and sporulate during brief thaw periods.
Mature Frosthorns reach 0.5–1 meter in height, with horn-like structures up to 0.3 meters wide. Young growths are typically 0.2–0.5 meters tall.
The Frosthorn’s water-capturing ability made it vital during the Era of Absolute Expansion (~3,000 years before modern Geba), supporting polar exploration in Kela. Overharvesting in trafficked zones during the Warlord Eras (~500–17 years before modern Geba) reduced populations near settlements. Expedition teams should monitor seismic activity, as shattered Frosthorns indicate unstable ice. Its limited range to Kela’s frozen plains restricts its utility in warmer biomes.