Emberpeak Lighthouse - Evaluation
Location and Overview
The Emberpeak Lighthouse is situated on the slopes of Mount Khelgar, a dormant volcano in the Emberpeak Mountain Range to the east. The lighthouse is constructed from dark, volcanic stone, and it overlooks a vast, fiery chasm where molten lava occasionally bubbles to the surface. The lighthouse is famed for its fire-resistant construction and the use of an eternal flame, fueled by the volcano’s residual heat, as its beacon. This flame can be seen for miles, guiding travelers through the treacherous mountain passes.
Structural Analysis
The lighthouse is built with fire-resistant stone, making it incredibly resilient to heat and occasional eruptions. The tower is 120 feet tall, with thick walls and a solid base anchored deep into the volcanic rock. The interior is stark and utilitarian, with narrow stairs and minimal decoration. The lantern room is reinforced with heat-resistant glass and stone, housing the eternal flame that burns brightly day and night. The overall structure is designed to withstand seismic activity and the occasional lava flow.
Geographical Considerations
The location on the slopes of a dormant volcano presents both opportunities and challenges. The altitude provides a strategic advantage, offering clear airspace for airships to dock. However, the proximity to the chasm and potential for volcanic activity introduces risks. The air currents around the volcano can be unpredictable, and the intense heat from the lava below could pose a danger to the airship’s materials. Additionally, the rough terrain would make constructing additional docking platforms or access routes difficult.
Suitability for Airship Docking
The Emberpeak Lighthouse is not recommended for airship docking. While the structure itself is sound and the altitude provides clear skies, the risks associated with the volcanic location are too significant. The potential for renewed volcanic activity, combined with the unpredictable air currents and intense heat, would make airship operations hazardous. The existing infrastructure is not easily adaptable to the needs of an airship dock, and the location’s inherent dangers outweigh the benefits.
— Excerpt from C.B.'s packet addressed to Lew Thaddeus Marrable
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