Agartha (A-Gar-Fa)
Home of Dragons
"In the dim light of Argatha's starlit sky, two dragons - one a shimmering gold Metallic named Elandrial and the other, Lyraxis, a vividly colored Gem dragon with scales reflecting hues of amethyst and sapphire - perched on the edge of a vast chasm, remnants of a chip in Bahamut's once-pristine scale. Elandrial, with a nostalgic sigh, gazed across the expansive landscapes, "You know, Lyraxis, every time I soar over the peaks and valleys of Argatha, I'm reminded of our deep-rooted legacy. This isn't just land we inhabit; it's the very essence of the Platinum Behemoth, our forebearer."
Lyraxis, catching the glint of a distant city nested within a scale valley, responded, "Indeed, Elandrial. Look beyond the scars and chipped scales, and you see not just Bahamut's sacrifice but our eternal home. The way the craters reflect the light of distant stars, the ethereal glow of Honor Hold from here, or the way our hoards sparkle in the deep caverns – there's a magic to Argatha that no other realm can replicate."
Elandrial nodded in agreement, "It's a beauty born from sacrifice, and a reminder of the weight of our history. We owe it to Argatha and to ourselves to uphold the sanctity of this realm."
With a contemplative look, Lyraxis added, "Every roar, every flap of our wings, every treasure we hoard – it's all a song, an ode to Argatha. Our Dragon Realm, our testament to eternity." The two continued their conversation, their voices blending with the gentle winds, as they cherished the splendor of their celestial homeland."
A dragon exchange
Floating silently in the cosmos, tethered to the realm of Absolute Law, Mechanus, lies Argatha - the majestic Dragon Realm. To an unknowing eye, it appears as a colossal moon, but those initiated into the mysteries of the multiverse recognize it for what it truly is: the decapitated head of the Platinum Behemoth, Bahamut. This celestial relic stands as an eternal testament to the betrayal and tragic fall of Bahamut at the hands of his queen, Tiamat. Now, the ancient dragons soar through its valleys and mountains, their roars echoing the eternal vows they once made to their fallen deity. But Argatha is more than just a realm of reverence; it is a realm pulsating with life, ambitions, and divine politics. It plays host to the continuous power tussle amongst the three primary dragon species: the Metallic, Chromatic, and Gem Dragons.
The Metallic Dragons, or Baheimian dragons, with their glistening scales reflecting the light of justice and honor, pledge unwavering allegiance to Diandrous, the Flight of Agartha. They revere him not only for his lineage as the Son of Bahamut but also for embodying the principles and teachings of the Platinum Behemoth. In stark contrast, the Chromatic Dragons, referred to as Tien Dragons, with scales as varied and vibrant as a stormy rainbow, advocate for a change in leadership. They chant praises of the Scaled Leviathan, Tiamat, calling for her release from the infernal chains of the Hells. They envision a realm where she, as the true Flight of Agartha, would herald a Second Age of Dragonic Domination, where dragons, once again, would reign supreme. Caught between these two colossal ideologies are the Gem Dragons, or Diandrian Dragons. Their shimmering, crystalline forms refract light in mesmerizing patterns, and while they are known for their neutrality, they have cast their lot with Diandrous. They have seen firsthand the mettle and wisdom he displayed as the Flight of the Gem and believe that under his leadership, Argatha will find balance and flourish.
In this divine sanctuary, where the legacy of the past is etched in every rock and cloud, the dragons of Argatha wrestle with questions of leadership, faith, and the future. The winds of change are blowing, and they carry with them the murmurs of a realm on the brink of transformation.
Geography
Argatha's landscape is a grand testament to the immense size and splendor of Bahamut, the Platinum Behemoth from which it was formed. At first glance, the moon-sized realm seems like an intricate tapestry of shimmering scales, each reflecting light in a myriad of mesmerizing hues. But a closer look reveals much more. The surface of Argatha is marked with gigantic mountains, not of natural rock, but of the chipped and damaged scales of the Platinum Behemoth. These scales, once smooth and pristine, have been scarred by cosmic events and eons of existence, transforming them into jagged peaks that soar high into the skies. Valleys and gorges have formed in between these scales, creating natural pathways for dragons to navigate.
Amidst these soaring peaks, there lies Honor Hold - a monumental platform carved from a particularly massive chipped scale. This grand arena stands as a beacon for all dragons, its surface etched with ancient dragonic runes that tell tales of valor, wisdom, and honor. It is here, on this revered platform, that the dragons gather in large numbers to discuss matters of utmost importance. The echoes of their roars and debates resonate through Argatha, a testament to the living legacy of their kind.
Freshwater sources, while not naturally present, have been created over time by the dragons themselves. Powerful water dragons, in collaboration with their earth-bound kin, have crafted cascading waterfalls and serene lakes by channeling the cosmic waters that sometimes flow near Argatha's orbit. These water bodies, shimmering with an otherworldly glow, provide sustenance to the realm's inhabitants and also serve as gathering spots for many. Argatha's edge, unlike traditional realms, doesn't end at a sea or an ocean. Instead, the periphery is marked by a shimmering aurora-like boundary, beyond which the vast expanse of Mechanus and the cosmic void stretches.
Despite its origins in tragedy, Argatha's natural beauty remains unparalleled. The interplay of light on the behemoth's scales, combined with the majestic sight of dragons soaring between peaks and valleys, creates a panorama that is awe-inspiring. Each view, each shimmer, speaks of the resilience and grandeur of dragonkind and their eternal connection to the Platinum Behemoth.
Ecosystem
The very nature of Argatha's existence revolves around its primary inhabitants: the dragons. This celestial realm has adapted, over eons, to cater to the myriad needs of these majestic creatures. Every aspect of the ecosystem reflects a symbiosis between the environment and dragonkind, ensuring a harmonious balance that has persisted for millennia.
- Dens and Abodes: The large mountains, formed from the chipped scales of Bahamut, offer countless nooks, crannies, and caves. These natural formations are favored by dragons as dens. The more powerful the dragon, the higher and more intricate its lair, with some ancient wyrms residing in vast caverns that span for miles beneath the behemoth's scales.
- Egg Nurseries: Some secluded valleys, protected from the elements and potential threats, are chosen as breeding grounds. Here, in these sanctuaries, dragon eggs are laid and guarded zealously. The unique cosmic energies that radiate from the very core of Argatha are believed to imbue the eggs with added vitality, ensuring stronger and more resilient hatchlings.
- Hoard Havens: Many dragons are known for their insatiable desire to collect treasures. In Argatha, certain gorges and caves shimmer with the accumulated wealth of eons. Gold, jewels, artifacts, and sometimes even stars plucked from the cosmic void, can be found in these hoard havens. The environment itself aids in the protection of these treasures. Some areas possess natural barriers like shimmering energy fields or labyrinthine tunnels, deterring any would-be thieves.
- Flora and Lesser Fauna: While dragons dominate the landscape, Argatha is not devoid of other life. Luminescent mosses and fungi grow in the dimmer recesses, sustained by the cosmic energies rather than sunlight. These often serve as minor food sources for smaller creatures that have managed to coexist with the dragons. Etheric fish swim in the magically-formed lakes, and cosmic birds, with feathers like starlight, flit between the peaks. These creatures have learned to coexist with their larger neighbors, often serving roles in the dragon's daily life, be it as food, companions, or even as hoard additions.
- Elemental Symbiosis: Given that dragons themselves are often tied to specific elements, it is not uncommon to see regions in Argatha that reflect these elemental affinities. For instance, areas favored by fire dragons might be warmer, with rivers of molten gold, while regions where ice dragons dwell might be eternally frosty, with glaciers and snow-capped peaks. This elemental shaping of the environment ensures that each dragon species has a piece of Argatha that feels innately like home.
In essence, Argatha's ecosystem is a masterclass in coexistence. Every aspect of the environment, every shimmering scale and glistening lake, is attuned to the needs and nature of its dragon inhabitants. The realm serves not just as a home but as a living testament to the legacy and might of dragonkind.
Localized Phenomena
Argatha, being the celestial remains of Bahamut and the sanctum of dragons, possesses a myriad of unique phenomena, both natural and supernaturally induced.
- The Breath Mists: Periodically, the entire realm is covered by an ethereal mist. Legends suggest these are the remnants of Bahamut's final breath. Not only do they provide a serene ambiance, but any dragon resting within these mists finds their own breath weapon temporarily enhanced. However, being within the mists also induces vivid dreams that recall memories of Bahamut's life.
- Scale Storms: Every once in a while, especially when great celestial events transpire, the scales of Bahamut resonate with powerful energies. This leads to tempests made of shimmering, iridescent lights. These storms, while beautiful, can be dangerous, with bolts of energy striking the surface and creating temporary rifts in the space-time fabric.
- Echoing Roars: Occasionally, a deep, resonating roar can be heard echoing throughout Argatha. This is believed to be Bahamut's lingering spirit, expressing his feelings or forewarning about significant events. Dragons often interpret these roars as omens and gather at Honor Hold to deliberate their meaning.
- Dragon Aurora: This is a unique atmospheric phenomenon where the skies above Argatha light up in vibrant hues, representing each dragon species. It's said that when a significant number of a specific dragon species gather and unite in purpose, the skies reflect their color dominantly. This not only provides a spectacular display but also an indication of the shifting political dynamics of the realm.
- Starfall Lakes: In some secluded regions, there are lakes with waters so clear and reflective that they seem to hold the very cosmos within their depths. Periodically, 'stars' fall from the sky into these lakes, causing ripples of magic. Dragons believe that drinking from these lakes during a starfall grants insights into the future.
- The Whispering Winds: These are unique breezes that carry with them the ancient tales of dragonkind. Those who listen closely can hear stories of old, of battles fought, treasures won, and legacies built. It's a living archive of dragon history, accessible to those who know how to listen.
- Tiamat’s Tears: Rarely, crimson red droplets fall from the skies, believed to be the tears of Tiamat mourning her lost love, Bahamut. Some Bahamien Dragons does not believe that Tiamat is even caple of remorse, and argue that these instead are Bahamuts blood. These tears are never th less sought after, for they hold immense power. It's said that a single tear can grant a boon or curse that lasts an eternity.
Natural Resources
While Argatha may not possess the conventional resources found on many material planes, its vast expanse atop Bahamut's decapitated head offers treasures that are both mystic and otherworldly. Dragons, with their innate desire to hoard, find Argatha a trove of wonders to add to their vast collections.
- Bahamut's Scales: Over the millennia, some of the Platinum Behemoth's scales have loosened, revealing layers beneath. These scales are incredibly resilient and can be forged into armor or artifacts of great power. Smaller fragments are often used in arcane rituals or as currency among the dragons.
- Platinum Veins: Beneath the scaly surface, veins of pure platinum run deep. These are remnants of Bahamut's celestial essence. When extracted and refined, this platinum has properties that exceed its mundane counterpart, making it highly sought after for crafting dragonic armaments or magical items.
- Starlight Crystals: Found within the caverns and crevices of Argatha, these crystals absorb and radiate the starlight from the cosmos above. They serve as a source of illumination and are believed to hold the power of the stars, utilized by spellcasters to enhance their arcane endeavors.
- Draconic Flora: Unique vegetation thrives in Argatha's environment. The Silverwood Trees, with their shimmering leaves, are known to have medicinal properties. The Starfire Blossoms, which bloom only during the Dragon Aurora, are used in many potent brews and elixirs.
- Ether Springs: Pockets of celestial waters, believed to be Bahamut's tears from eons past, form springs across Argatha. This water has rejuvenating properties and is used in rituals to commune with the Platinum Behemoth's spirit.
- Gemstone Caverns: Hidden beneath Argatha's surface are caverns studded with gemstones of every conceivable type. These aren't ordinary gems; their proximity to Bahamut's essence has imbued them with unique magical properties, making them highly coveted.
- Breathstone: In certain zones, there are stones that contain the remnants of Bahamut's breath. These can be used to temporarily bestow or enhance a breath weapon, and they're a valuable resource for dragon scholars studying the nature of breath attacks.
- Mystical Fauna: Many celestial creatures have made Argatha their home. Starlight Serpents, Platinum Gryphons, and Celestial Drakes are just a few of the many creatures that roam this realm. Their essence is sometimes sought by dragons for various rituals and concoctions.
Alternative Name(s)
The Dragonic Sanctum & The Dragon Realm
Type
Planetoid / Moon
Owner/Ruler
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