General Information
Name: Drak Hide
Class: Vitalic
Type: Hide
Colour: Mottled grey-brown with a matte finish
Smell: Earthy, slightly acrid when freshly cured
Description: Drak Hide is a semi-flexible and weather-hardy leather. Its coarse, bumpy texture provides natural grip and durability, making it highly sought after boots, bags, harnesses, and lightweight outerwear. When left unpolished, it retains a unique, natural look.
Properties: Naturally resistant to tearing, water, and moderate heat. When properly tanned, the hide remains pliable without sacrificing strength. Offers mild insulation and is commonly layered with cloth for practical, mobile armor. Alchemically inert, yet valued as a safe container for volatile or reactive reagents due to its toughness.
Harvesting & Processing
Harvesting: The best skin is collected from the flanks and back of the Drak, where the hide is thick and less damaged. It can be taken post-mortem from mature specimens or in small patches from older Draks that are under sedation. Skinners must be careful not to score or pierce the hide, as clean removal improves both the yield and the curing process.
Processing: Hides can be cured through sun-drying, salt-packing, or immersion in natural tannins. After drying and tanning, they are oiled for long-term use and kept pliable. Polishing is optional, but many prefer to keep the surface raw for better grip.
Storage: Store flat or rolled in a dry place. Occasional oiling prevents cracking and extends lifespan. Well-prepared Drak Hide can last for decades without rot or structural loss, making it a staple material among tanners and tradesfolk.