Lantern Urchins

Lantern Urchins possess a semi-rigid internal support lattice (not a full skeleton) surrounded by a collagen-like outer layer. They're circulatory system pumps a viscous silver-blue fluid that stores and conducts bioluminescent energy. They have photosensitive fronds to "see" light levels and movement.

Reactive glow when startled or touched

Luminal pulse coordination when in groups

Lantern Urchins reproduces through external spawning. Females release phosphorescent eggs into the water, while males emit luminous spores that drift down in glowing clouds. The eggs must be fertilized within minutes. Fertile zones are closely guarded by Ghostfeather Rays during this period.

Hatchlings (Glintlings): Tiny, translucent spheres with faint glow; highly vulnerable.

Juveniles (Sparklets): Gain soft spines and begin to develop color.

Adults: Fully glowing, capable of forming bonds with other marine life.

Found only in bioluminescent coral reefs and tide-glow bays. They require both clean saltwater and access to ambient vibrations (from waves, echoing stones, or singing Ghostfeather Rays) to survive. They thrive in aural and visual harmony.

Filter feeders. They consume microplankton and ambient magick particles known as noctis motes that drift through water currents, attracted by the urchins’ light.

During moonless nights, Lantern Urchins dim their light completely, entering a meditative stasis known as the Silent Fade. This helps conserve energy and is believed to be linked to dreamlike psychic phenomena.

Glowcore Extract: Used in alchemy and lighting charms

Spines: Collected (after natural shedding) for ceremonial pens and fine tuning forks

Light Rhythm Crystals: Bioluminescent memory pulses can be recorded and harvested for ambient song-casting

While Native to the eastern waters of Vayu Sachana, Lantern Urchins can be found all across Caelum Prime where Ghostfeather Rays can travel freely.

• Light perception through skin
• Vibration-sensitive core allows them to detect sound patterns from over a kilometer away underwater
• Chemical touch receptors help them determine water purity and emotional state of bonded rays

Lantern Urchins have a symbiotic relationship with Ghostfeather Rays. The rays protect Lantern Urchins during their vulnerable spawning periods. In return, the urchins emit calming patterns of light and sound that soothe the rays’ migratory anxiety and help them navigate treacherous waters at night. It’s believed that rays “dream” through the patterns the urchins emit.