Gunpowder
Explosive Material
The metallic smell of each cartridge fades to the background as deft fingers methodically load each into a weapon. For the one who carries this hunk of metal, the tang of metal replaced by the stench of sulfur will be their saving grace, the thing that saves them when ambushed or in danger. The smell has become second nature, a smell reminiscent of home that never truly leaves the nose as one continues their travels, their Firearm as constant a companion as any friend.
Small hands gently scrape a variety of powders and minerals into a mortar, preparing to mix them into the perfect combinations to illuminate the skies with vibrant colors. Gentle hands work the explosive powder with the other minerals, achieving the right ratios for the stunning display that has become famous worldwide. It is difficult and dangerous work, but the outcome is an art form of its own, from minerals to paintings in the sky.
Gunpowder is an extremely versatile material that is used by various people all over the world. Known for its distinctive smell and explosive characteristics, this material is often thought of as a Human invention due to their use of Firearms, but this is far from the truth. Dwarves, during their mining, were the original discoverers of Gunpowder and its capabilities, but others elsewhere have utilized the material for a variety of things.
Properties
Material Characteristics
Gunpowder is a powdery substance that has explosive characteristics that make it a very useful material. Created from a mixture of sulfur, charcoal, and saltpeter, it is one of the earliest chemical explosives. When heated to the correct temperature, Gunpowder does not detonate, but instead burns quickly.
History & Usage
Everyday use
Because of its characteristics, Gunpowder is used by a variety of people for a variety of things. Dwarves prefer Gunpowder as a source for blasting rock, as its low shattering capability allows for more usable stone than other explosives. Fairies and others use Gunpowder as a base for the creation of fireworks, most of which are commonly seen over Silverleaf. Gunpowder is also the propellant used to fire various cartridges and rounds from the Firearms that Humans use.
Cultural Significance and Usage
While almost every race in the world utilizes Gunpowder in one way or another, it is only considered culturally significant to Humans due to their use of Firearms. Firearms are considered a divine right granted to the Humans and therefore their use, manufacturing, and all things related to them are a significant part of the lives of these people.
Distribution
Trade & Market
Gunpowder is mostly created by Dwarves due to their mining exploits, but it can be purchased all over the world. Only the smallest of village markets are unable to sell this material in small five-pound powder kegs that can be useful to any Adventurer or anyone else who has found an unorthodox usage of this explosive material. Larger quantities of Gunpowder often have to be purchased directly from the Dwarven Kingdom, but small quantities are readily available.
Storage
Gunpowder must be stored in a cool, dry place in order to keep the material from self-igniting or being ruined due to the collection of moisture. In most instances, Gunpowder is stored in wooden barrels that are treated with a similar process to those that store alcohol. These barrels are tightly sealed, treated on the inside, and are waterproof.
Cloud of Smoke
Odor
Metallic before burning, sulfurous when burnt
Color
Black and grey
Related Species
Related Technologies
Related Professions
I like how different cultures have different uses for it.
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