Shardscale

Welcome to Eldergrove, Researcher. You were sent by the Academy to research and document the magical creatures in and around Eldergrove: #053 - SHARDSCALE Type: Water/Earth Habitat: Crystal Lake & Deep Grove Streams Size: 8-12 inches Rarity: Uncommon APPEARANCE: A sleek, elegant fish whose body is covered in thick, faceted scales resembling various gemstones—sapphires, emeralds, and amethysts. Each scale is naturally angular, refracting light into a brilliant rainbow halo around the fish as it swims. It has translucent, flowing fins that shimmer like liquid silver. Its eyes are large and clear, resembling pale, unpolished diamonds. BEHAVIOR: Shardscales are solitary and somewhat elusive, preferring the deep, cool crevices of the lake. They are "light-feeders," often seen drifting near the surface during high noon to "recharge" their scales with sunlight. When threatened, they tilt their bodies with incredible precision to create a blinding flash of refracted light to disorient predators. ABILITY: Their scales act as natural prisms. By vibrating their bodies at specific frequencies, they can project intricate, multicolored light patterns onto the surface of the water or the walls of underwater caves. This is used for both complex communication and advanced camouflage. HABITAT & DIET: They inhabit only the clearest, most untainted waters of the Eldergrove. They don't consume organic matter; instead, they absorb magical minerals from the water and energy directly from sun and moonlight. LORE: Ancient tales suggest Shardscales are the "lost jewels" of a forgotten water spirit. It is said that catching a glimpse of a Shardscale brings clarity of thought. Villagers often visit the lake when they have a difficult decision to make, hoping the fish's rainbow will point the way. Temperament: Serene, Elusive, Stoic Activity: Diurnal (most active at high noon)