Tyrant-Moths

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"Those mosaic configurations on its wings. Do they carry meaning?"[1]

Strange moths are nothing new for denizens of the Neath, especially for those who've stayed in the Tomb-Colonies for a time. But the vicious moths that lurk near the Ragged Crow's guiding light can leave even the hardiest Neath-dweller at a loss for words. These Tyrant-Moths are immense, with wings the size of a ship's sails. While destructive, they are still moths, and light sources may tempt them to their doom.[2]

Tyrant-Moths are a delicacy in certain far-off places, such as Whither, where their antennae are prepared in a... delightful dish called tyrant's treat.[3]

Given their size, mysterious nature, and destructive behavior, Tyrant-Moths are naturally the subjects of many myths and stories. Their wing patterns are said to resemble maps of the skies, or perhaps something more: charming visions of faraway gardens, winged creatures from all walks of life, or maybe the light flowing from within a glowing mountain. However, looking at these patterns too closely or for far too long may be risky.[4] There is also a legend that Tyrant-Moths' bodies are full of sapphires, but obtaining these gems is easier said than done.[5]

The most mysterious tale of all, however, speaks of a time when a foolhardy zailor whispered to Salt, and a Tyrant-Moth answered...[6]

References

  1. ↑ Examine it before its final dissolution, Sunless Sea
  2. ↑ Tyrant Moth, Sunless Sea "The tyrant moth is a winged insect with wings the size of ship's sails. Attracted to light, it haunts the seas near the Ragged Crow Lighthouse."
  3. ↑ Try something mysterious, Sunless Sea "Tyrant-moth antennae! You know how to deal with these. You break it into fragments and swallow the dripping fragments each in a gulp, exhaling briskly to savour the vapours afterwards. It's a complex rather than a pleasant flavour, but its tonic effects are marvellous."
  4. ↑ Examine it before its final dissolution, Sunless Sea "As it comes apart, scenes of gardens swim before you. There are other winged things depicted here: butterflies on flowers, alphabet-winged frost-moths, bees alive with red memory. A mountain rises behind them all. Light grows at its core."
  5. ↑ Search for jewels, Sunless Sea "Blue jewels are embedded in the rotting fuselage of the moth's remains. You gather as much as you can, splashing frantically in the ship's boat, before it disintegrates altogether, and the remaining jewels are lost."
  6. ↑ Make a sacrifice to Salt, Sunless Sea "You whisper your prayer into the dark. Something has heard it: you're terribly certain of that. Perhaps this is Salt's idea of helping. Or perhaps you're just very unlucky."
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