Emberfern

Legend

“Suddenly earth opened its jaws, tongues of molten rock lashed forth, to entangle and engulf the herbalist. Skin almost aflame, hair curling, breathing a pain, and eyes drying, Li Mingdao saw Emberfern.”

Skjald Vinotis

 

History

Li Mingdao was a renowned herbalist, preferring to search volcanic highlands; he was known for his fearless exploration of the treacherous terrain. Legend has it that Li Mingdao discovered the Emberfern while seeking shelter from a sudden eruption. Observing the fern’s ability to withstand the intense heat, he quickly gathered some and returned to his shop. There he experimented with different parts. Realising its potential for medicinal use, he developed various products that could harness its unique properties.

Li Mingdao’s discovery of the Emberfern led to a breakthrough in herbal medicine. His knowledge has been passed on through generations, and Emberfern is a symbol of resilience in the face of adversity.

Skjald Valgrif

 

Description

Emberfern is a hardy perennial fern with large fronds in a distinctive fiery red colouration.

Fronds are arranged in a symmetrical pattern and are attached to the stem by short stalks. They can reach up to six feet in length and have hairless feathery foliage in Venetian Red, Falu Red, and Crimson, with their unique serrated margin resembling flames.

Stem: long, non-woody, slender, and has nodes and internodes that support the fronds.

Root: The deep and extensively branched fibrous root system is well-adapted to the rocky volcanic soil. The roots are spread widely, anchoring it firmly in the rocky volcanic soil with a shallow depth to capture nutrients from the surface.

Skjald Ulrich

 

Climate/Locale

Emberferns thrive in the extreme conditions of volcanic highlands. They are adapted to the high temperatures, mineral-rich soils, and occasional lava flows that characterise this environment.

Skjald Sigurd

 

Handling

Simply find the fern, pluck its fronds, and dry them in the sun to preserve their fiery colour and properties. They must be stored in airtight containers to protect them from moisture and maintain their potency until they are refined. Refinement should be done within 18 weeks, as they generally begin to lose their potency within that time.

 

Product

• Dried frond: Emberfern fronds must be sundried shortly after harvest. (1d6 hours / 3d6 weeks)
• Powder: Is made by grinding the fronds into a fine, fiery powder. (3d6 weeks)
• Pastes are made by mixing the powder with a binding agent, usually a resin. (3d6 weeks)
• Potions are extracted by pressure shortly after harvesting. (1d6 hours)

Product Storage:

• Dried fronds and powder must be kept dry.
• Paste is stored in sealed jars to prevent moisture from affecting its quality.
• Potions are stored in tightly sealed dark glass bottles or vials to protect them from light.

Product Usage:

• Pastes: Applied topically.
• Potions: Are consumed.

Product Effect: 

All Emberfern products share the ability to provide resistance to extreme heat and boost energy levels. When applied or consumed, they create a sensation of invigoration and temporarily increase the body’s tolerance to high temperatures. They are popular among travellers and adventurers exploring volcanic regions.

The paste is used to soothe burns and reduce inflammation. It can also be used to create heat-absorbing poultices or for treating feverish conditions. (cures 1d6 square inch of burns / 1d6 days)

The potions are used to increase resistance to heat and fatigue. (ignores 1d6 degrees of heat / 1d3 hours)

Skjald Yell'a'Beard

 

Caution

While Emberfern products can provide resistance to heat, they should not be used as a substitute for proper protection in extremely hot environments. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can still be dangerous, and users should take necessary precautions.

Skjald Sejrik

 

Special

Emberfern is considered a symbol of resilience and adaptability in many cultures. It is often associated with the ability to thrive in challenging conditions, much like the people of the volcanic highlands. In some traditions, Emberfern fronds are used as decorative elements during festivals and ceremonies to represent the indomitable spirit.

Skjald Valgrif