Gemback

Welcome to Eldergrove, Researcher. You were sent by the Academy to research and document the magical creatures in and around Eldergrove: #054 - GEMBACK Type: Ground/Arcane Habitat: Ancient Caves & Deep Earth Veins Size: 2–3 feet Rarity: Rare APPEARANCE: A sturdy, ancient-looking turtle with a body made of weathered, moss-flecked stone. Its most remarkable feature is its shell, which isn't made of bone, but a cluster of massive, translucent crystals in shades of emerald, amethyst, and citrine. These crystals pulse with a rhythmic, golden internal light. Its skin is thick and patterned with glowing arcane runes that mirror the light of its shell. BEHAVIOR: Gembacks are incredibly slow-moving and deliberate. they spend most of their time in a state of deep meditation, syncing their heartbeats to the natural frequency of the earth. They are non-aggressive, relying on their impenetrable shells for defense. When they move, the ground beneath them often vibrates with a low, melodic hum. ABILITY: Crystal Resonance. The Gemback can vibrate the crystals on its back to create a harmonic frequency. This frequency can stabilize shifting earth, amplify nearby spells, or generate a shimmering arcane barrier that protects everything within a five-foot radius. HABITAT & DIET: They reside in the deepest "singing caves" of the Eldergrove, where the earth's natural magic is most concentrated. They do not eat plants or animals; they consume raw magical energy from ley-line intersections and rare glowing mosses. LORE: Legends say the Gembacks were the first builders of the grove, used by ancient spirits to steady the ground before the Great Trees were planted. To find a Gemback is considered a sign of profound geological stability. Thomas tells a story that their humming is actually the "voice of the mountain" trying to sing itself to sleep. Temperament: Stoic, Patient, Wise Activity: Cathemeral (Active sporadically day or night)