Cosmic Wayfinder: Æfensteorra, the World of Splendor

Æfensteorra, the World of Splendor

In the past, Æfensteorra, the third planet from Sol, was often referred to as Earth's "sister planet" due to its similar size and composition. However, Æfensteorra has broken away from the human-centric moniker and now is called the “World of Splendor” due to its otherworldly beauty. Long ago, Æfensteorra had a hostile environment with a thick atmosphere primarily composed of carbon dioxide, which trapped heat and led to an extreme greenhouse effect. As a result, Æfensteorra experiences surface temperatures that can reach up to 900 degrees Fahrenheit. The planet was shrouded in thick sulfuric acid clouds, making it challenging to observe its surface directly. 

 

An image of Æfensteorra from orbit.

A Change of Scenery

Three hundred years ago, Æfensteorran mages and astronomers began an initiative to permanently shift the climate of their world to a more sustainable nature. For decades, they used Essence to move both the weather on Æfensteorra and the biology of their race, which had been suited to survive in those climates until then. Eventually, Æfensteorra developed a cooler constellation and an average surface temperature of 71 degrees Fahrenheit. The surface grew vegetation, bodies of water, new kinds of animals, and the Æfensteorrans thrived. The wildlife adapted to reflect the magic infused within the planet, though some wildlife retained its evolutionary patterns geared solely towards conflict and survival.

The Æfensteorrans

In the past, Æfensteorrans were stout creatures with four arms, pale skin, and large eyes. Now, they are thin beings with vibrant hair, two pairs of arms, slit irises, pointed ears, slender tails, and two hooves. On average, they stand at seven feet tall. Æfensteorrans possess an excellent affinity for manipulating Essence, capable of high-end manipulations that allow them to live comfortably on their homeworld.

The First to Bridge the Gap

Æfensteorrans live in massive metropolises made from wood and stone, living in harmony with their home. Despite being able to create spacecraft, their magic is capable of interplanetary travel, allowing them to traverse long distances through the use of rituals. Even still, Æfensteorrans travel of luxurious capital ships made from metal and wood. They were the first species to establish interplanetary relations with another world, their neighbor Earth. When Æfensteorrans first arrived on Earth, humanity mistook them for the elves of fantasy before recognizing their sovereignty and accepting their invitation into the Republic. Now, Æfensteorra leads the Republic through its knowledge of Essence, understanding of technology, and exporting of luxury goods. Their main export, mitril, is an exotic metal alloy made by infusing metals with Essence to increase its durability and strength.