Lirnas

Lirnas is a fictional mineral described in science fiction literature and role-playing games. It is depicted as forming in ultra-high-pressure pockets within planetary crusts and in meteorite impacts, where it crystallizes as pale violet prisms with a subtle glow. The term lirnas is derived in-universe from the Lirna language, where lir means light and nas denotes a substance.

Physical properties vary by author, but common features include high energy density and luminescence under ultraviolet illumination. In many depictions, lirnas can store electrical energy at levels comparable to or exceeding conventional batteries and release it as electrical power or light in controlled pulses. Reported hardness ranges from Mohs 5 to 6, with a density around 3.0–3.5 g/cm3, and a tendency to cleave along planes, complicating handling.

Occurrence and mining: It occurs in limited quantities, often in isolated pockets near tectonic faults or meteorite shock zones. Mining is challenging due to its brittleness, heat generation during extraction, and, in some stories, radioactivity; extraction is typically automated or performed under heavy shielding.

Applications and significance: Because lirnas stores energy densely and has stable emissions, it features in propulsion systems, power grids, and weapons in various narratives. Refined lirnas alloys are said to improve superconductivity or energy transfer efficiency. The mineral's scarcity and political value drive trade networks, expeditions, and conflicts in some settings.