A waterproof guide to the plants, animals, reefs, and tidal hazards surrounding the Vaelari sanctuary islands.
Life in the Tide Courts follows the water. Reef roads open at low tide, storm channels fill during a surge, and the same root path may be dry, flooded, or occupied within one cycle. Carry the local tide table and ask a ferry crew when the last storm changed the route.
Tideglass Mangrove: These salt-tolerant trees hold the flats together with dense root systems. Their translucent root bark is used in flood construction and surgical splints. Take bark from mature outer growth and do not cut a root supporting a marked crossing.
Pearlstone: This nacreous mineral forms where geothermal water enters reef caverns. It is used in healing instruments, jewelry, seawalls, and sanctuary foundations. Pearlstone Borers help shape natural reefs but weaken built walls. Wall crews inspect for fresh holes at every low tide.
Brinehorn Grazer: These patient animals crop the tough grass that binds salt marshes together and spread its seed as they move. Hunting is limited by season and herd count. Taking too many removes the grass that protects the flats from erosion.
Reefback Seal: Reefbacks hunt Pearlstone Borers and rest on pale reefs. Their mottled plates collect dust from the colony's usual resting place, allowing crews to identify which reef the animals use. Hunters take selected older animals and leave the main colonies intact.
Tidesage: This salt herb is gathered at low water and used in restorative broths and cleansing draughts. Rinse it in clean water before preparation. Harbour runoff can settle on an otherwise healthy bed.
Warmkelp: Geothermal channels keep this kelp warm after harvest. It is used as food, as a bandage layer, and to apply slow medicinal heat. Kelp taken from an unmarked hot channel may carry enough heat to burn skin.
Mercy Reed: The pale wetland fibers are used in pain relief and braided into the signing cords of sanctuary courts. Cut above the waterline. The living bed filters mud and slows floodwater.
Shellmint: This bright coastal mint settles nausea and clears the breath after deep-water work. Ferry crews keep it near boarding points for passengers unused to rough crossings.
Mangrove Glassclaw: These animals hide in the root tangle and close a translucent claw on anything placed within reach. Root crossings require both hands, so check each grip before shifting weight.
Stormchannel Coilfin: Coilfins ride inland on the incoming surge and leave with the ebb. A channel may be safe for most of the cycle and lethal during their arrival. Use the tide schedule rather than looking for tracks.
The Tide Courts depend on managed relationships. Brinehorns maintain marsh grass. Reefbacks control borers. Mangroves hold crossings and clinic islands in place. Harvesting one part without considering the others creates work for every settlement downstream.
