Vulcan is the second planet of the Oceanic star system. It is a terrestrial planet with a solid rocky surface and a thin atmosphere. Its most distinctive feature is the extensive volcanic activity that covers much of its surface. The planet's proximity to its star and constant geological activity make it one of the hottest inhabited worlds in the system.

This planet has one moon, Calē. It is a small, irregularly shaped satellite with a dark basaltic surface. Calē’s elliptical orbit occasionally brings it close to the planet's surface, causing minor tidal effects that contribute to Vulcan's already intense geological activity. The moon's dark coloration is believed to be the result of ancient volcanic deposits from the planet itself.

Geography and Terrain

The surface of Vulcan is dominated by vast volcanic mountain ranges, deep canyons carved by ancient lava flows, and expansive plains of solidified basalt. Scattered across these harsh terrains are numerous active volcanoes and geothermal features, including geysers, fumaroles, and boiling mud pools. The planet's crust is unusually thin, contributing to its constant tectonic activity and the formation of massive calderas that can span hundreds of kilometers.

The planet's settlements are primarily centered around mining operations, with most permanent habitation occurring in underground cave networks formed by ancient lava tubes. These natural caverns, carved out by prehistoric volcanic activity, provide shelter from the harsh surface conditions. The Hyot'tohr have extensively developed these cave systems, creating intricate networks of tunnels and chambers that serve as both living spaces and mining operations.

These underground settlements are particularly valuable because they contain rare pockets of standing water, protected from the intense surface heat and volcanic activity. The water, collected in natural basins within the caves, is essential for sustaining life. The cave systems also provide natural protection from the frequent plasmatic storms that plague the surface.

The planet's terrain is characterized by a notable elevation gradient, with the northern regions being significantly more elevated than the southern areas. In the northwest, the Totkalkr mountain range dominates the landscape, with Kol'kohrto Peak standing as its highest point. This elevation difference creates distinct geological and climatic zones across the planet's surface.

Environmental Factors

Vulcan's extreme environment poses unique challenges for those operating on the planet:

• Volcanic Activity: Constant volcanic eruptions reshape the planet's surface, making permanent settlements hard to maintain. The proximity to active lava flows and geothermal vents results in dangerously high temperatures across the planet.
• Desert Environment: Heat and gases from volcanic activity prevent the formation of most water bodies, giving Vulcan its arid landscape. Hot springs and groundwater make the planet somewhat habitable, creating minimal rainfall for flora. Most vegetation is sustained through artificial means, however.
• Toxic Atmosphere: Volcanic gases create a hostile atmosphere, requiring advanced life support systems for any extended presence on the surface.
• Plasmatic Storms: Frequent electrical storms sweep across Vulcan's surface, caused by the interaction between volcanic ash and the planet's magnetic field. These storms generate powerful electromagnetic pulses that can disable unshielded equipment and pose significant risks to both ground and aerial operations.

These environmental factors have led to the development of specialized CER0 applications and protective gear designed specifically for operations on Vulcan.

Elemental Sites

Several notable elemental sites exist on Vulcan's surface:

• Magma Forge Sanctums: Ancient forging facilities used for crafting and preserving relics. These sanctums take advantage of Vulcan's volcanic activity for specialized crafting purposes.
• The Den of Storms: A region notorious for intense plasmatic storm activity. Expeditions to the Den of Storms are extremely dangerous due to the unpredictable nature of the discharges.
• Nuclear Wells: Formed within deep volcanic caverns and underground chambers, these geological formations hold nuclear energy that naturally concentrates and manifests in complex, semi-stable patterns.
• Kol'kohrto Peak: The highest peak on Vulcan, Kol'kohrto Peak is a sacred site for the Hyot'tohr people. Long ago, the constant rumbling and volcanic activity of Kol'kohrto Peak was believed to be the voice of divine beings communicating with their people. This belief contributed to the peak's sacred status among the Hyot'tohr, who continue to regard it with deep spiritual reverence.