"Boomshroom holy! Goblins say fire not hurt if you dance fast!" — Grubclaw, Goblin Shaman
Appearance
Stout, bulbous fungi with a warm orange-red gradient, resembling burning coals or embers nestled among stone.
Glows brightly (as a torch), flaring and fading every few minutes in response to ambient humidity. The drier the air, the brighter it burns.
Effects
When disturbed and exposed to open flame or spark, Embercap releases flammable spores that **explode in a 5-foot radius** for **1d4 fire damage**. Creatures may attempt a **DC 13 Reflex save** for half damage.
Revered by goblin tribes as sacred “fire-buds,” they are commonly used in **ceremonial boom-lanterns**, makeshift explosives, or as offerings to fire spirits.
Ecology & Lore
Thriving in geologically active regions, Embercap blooms often grow in clusters near lava tubes or volcanic vents. Their life cycle is tied to geothermal heat and rapid decay cycles, making them a sign of underground volcanic activity.
Harvesting
Removing an Embercap safely requires a DC 14 Disable Device or Survival check to avoid triggering a spore burst. Failure results in immediate detonation.
GM Tip --- Introduce a high-moisture environment to dampen the fungus and neutralize its explosive potential—or use this mechanic to trigger traps!