The Sunfire Strait
The Sunfire Strait is a, picturesque waterway that flows between the Ember Islands of Drakoria to the south and the coasts of Eouma and Jou’lunn to the north. Known for its breathtaking sunsets that paint the waters in molten gold and crimson, the strait is both a vital trade route and a place steeped in legend.
Sailors consider the glow a blessing of safe passage, believing it to be a sign that the gods of sea and sky watch favorably over their voyage. Local legends claim the fiery hues mark the presence of sunken treasures from ancient shipwrecks, guarded by sea spirits who only reveal their hoards to the worthy. Among Drakorian seafarers, the Sunfire Strait is also said to be a place where the spirits of dragons once descended into the waves, giving the waters their fiery nature.
The strait is a crucial trade route linking the western continent of Arandor to the southern and eastern regions. Whoever controls its passage holds significant influence over maritime commerce, making it a point of contention during naval conflicts. Both Eouma and Drakoria have fortified their nearby ports to ensure their dominance.
Geography
The strait connects the Stormveil Sea to the Mesowet Ocean, creating a natural corridor for ships traveling between western and eastern trade hubs. Its waters are relatively calm compared to the open ocean, though treacherous reefs and shifting currents make navigation risky for the inexperienced. The Ember Islands to the south are volcanic, their fiery glow at night adding to the strait’s mystical reputation.
Localized Phenomena
The strait takes its name from the Sunfire Glow, a natural phenomenon during sunset where the combination of salt spray, volcanic ash from the Ember Islands, and atmospheric moisture causes the sky and sea to blaze in vivid shades of red, orange, and gold. At its peak, the entire horizon seems aflame, a sight that has inspired countless songs, paintings, and myths.
Climate
The Sunfire Strait experiences a warm, maritime climate shaped by ocean currents, volcanic activity, and its position between two contrasting landmasses. Gentle sea breezes dominate most of the year, keeping temperatures mild even during the hottest months. Summers bring long stretches of clear skies, perfect for the vibrant Sunfire Glow phenomenon that gives the strait its name. Winters are cooler, with increased rainfall and occasional fog banks that roll in from the Stormveil Sea, shrouding the islands in mist.
The volcanic Ember Islands to the south release intermittent plumes of ash and heat, subtly affecting local weather patterns. Ash clouds can intensify sunsets, creating even more dramatic fiery skies. Storms are more frequent during the transitional seasons, when the clash of warm southern currents and cooler northern winds creates sudden squalls. These storms, though brief, are notorious for producing treacherous waves and lightning displays.
The waters remain relatively temperate year-round, fostering abundant marine life. However, the combination of shifting currents and volcanic seabed activity can create unpredictable whirlpools and thermal updrafts beneath the surface, making navigation challenging for unwary sailors.
Fauna & Flora
The Sunfire Strait’s unique blend of warm maritime air, volcanic influences, and nutrient-rich waters creates an ecosystem that is both vibrant and unpredictable. Life thrives along its rocky shores, coral reefs, and in the surrounding Ember Islands, where volcanic soil nourishes rare plant species.
Flora
The Ember Islands are carpeted with heat-tolerant vegetation.- Ember Ferns – Grow along ash-strewn slopes, their fronds tipped with a faint orange hue.
- Sunpetal Vines – Golden flowers that bloom only during sunset, considered good luck for sailors.
- Saltcrust Mangroves – Thrive in shallow coves, filtering seawater and stabilizing beaches with their roots.
- Lava Orchids – Rare flowers that glow faintly at night, absorbing heat during the day.
Fauna
Marine life in the Sunfire Strait is abundant, supporting both local fishers and trade vessels.- Goldenfin Tuna – Large schools shimmer under the Sunfire Glow, a staple for local fishing.
- Sunburst Mackerel – Fast-moving fish with scales that reflect fiery hues at dusk.
- Reef Drakes – Small, wingless draconic creatures that guard coral reefs aggressively.
- Sea Wyverns – Rare and feared, these deep-channel predators are said to descend from ancient dragons.
- Flare Gulls and Ash Terns – Seabirds that follow ships, feeding on scraps and fish.
- Glow-Wing Moths – Iridescent insects that emerge at dusk, catching the last light of the day.
Type
Strait
Vehicles Present
Location under
Included Locations
Characters in Location
Related Reports (Primary)
Related Professions
Comments