Pyria II is the fourth planet from the sun with an elliptical orbit that annually passes very close to Pyria, causing the planet to have no atmosphere and temperatures to be well above average at any given time. Pyria II also sits outside of the asteroid field that is within the system making it safe from rocky debris. However, the system government has shielded the planet to protect mineral deposits.
Although it has an extremely hostile environment, the planet is vital to the overall success of the system, with outposts and cities forming right on the banks of the multiple lakes of magma. The rocky and barren plains along with the lakes and rivers of flowing lava make the planet inhabitable only to the toughest of creatures. Pyria II is mostly a ball of molten rock, and vegetation is nonexistent in the wild. There are also a few mountains that scientists have studied since the system was discovered. It’s widely believed that they are dormant volcanoes and seismic activity is closely monitored on the planet.
To make things worse for the populace, Pyria II has recorded temperatures over 40° on average since its incorporation in Year 16. Nightfall doesn’t help to cool the planet off either, as the magma lakes radiate heat constantly. Vacuum protective equipment is recommended if traveling on the surface of this planet between domed cities or outposts.