Aurelian's Bottled Dragon's Breath

A crystal distillery bottle holding a glowing crimson essence in which the stolen breath of an ancient dragon—and a second, smaller rhythm—continue to breathe.

Classification: Draconic life-essence vessel
Origin: Aurelian's Arcane Distillery, beneath an ancient mountain
Estimated date: Several centuries old
Collection status: On display
Materials: Crystal bottle and stopper; condensed draconic breath
Condition: Stopper appears intact; crimson contents remain active

The Curator’s record

Keep within the Alchemist's Cabinet and maintain a generous viewing distance. The stopper is not to be tested, adjusted, or removed. If the glow brightens, leave the cabinet without taking a deep breath. Reports of a second, smaller respiration are not to be dismissed as an echo.

Provenance

The alchemist Aurelian drugged an ancient dragon and captured what he believed to be its final exhalation. He sold drops of the crimson essence until it began breathing, marking his laboratory with claws and altering his own body. Aurelian vanished after opening the bottle; it was later recovered with two distinct rhythms breathing inside and eventually entered the Mystical Caravan's collection.

Observed activity

The contents brighten and dim in the rhythm of respiration. Red mist gathers despite the apparently perfect seal, deep inhalations may be heard nearby, and the vessel can cast winged shadows or leave claw marks. The presence inside appears to search for living lungs through which it may continue its escape.

The Dragon's Final Breath