Obliviax

Assassin of the Mind's Eye

Obliviax is a writhing, pulsing, black and purple moss that grows in the deepest and darkest hearts of Avalǿn's forests, naturally forming on rocks and structures or festering on the backs of wandering Etchlings. The moss has an alleged effect on the cognizance of those who breathe in its spores. If collected, the moss can be made into Potions of Oblivion, which repress the memory of the drinker for a number of hours. Obliviax is said to exhibit feelings of bliss and euphoria, thus resulting in the plant mostly being used for recreational purposes.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Similar to most mosses, the Obliviax stem is anatomically complex, consisting of a differentiated epidermal layer, a cortex, and a central strand of thin-walled hydroids. The epidermal cells are typically elongated on the surface and have thick, pigmented walls and small lumina. The dominant stage in Obliviax is haploid generation (the Gametophyte), which later develops the parasitic Sporophyte that produces Germinating spores and Oblivion spores.

Genetics and Reproduction

Obliviax reproduces asexually by releasing spores that invade and hijack nearby plants and growths. In a number of weeks, the invaded hosts decay and begin growing Obliviax spores of their own, which through the process of amalgamation, joins the maternal network. In addition, Etchlings, unaffected by memorial influence, also passively spread these spores to host organisms.

Ecology and Habitats

The optimal conditions for Obliviax growth are in dark, cold, moist conditions, and so, common places of habitation for the moss are the hearts of large forests, away from all natural light and heat.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Unlike other plants, Obliviax isn't a producer. Instead, it collects the energy it needs for germination and spore production from the remains of plants and animals that decay within reach of the moss. It actively maintains its steady food supply by entrancing wandering beasts with its spores before feeding on them for fuel.

Additional Information

Uses, Products & Exploitation

Obliviax can be harvested and mixed with Avënsage leaves to create Potions of Oblivion or have their Divination magic extracted and contained in a Forgetmenot Amulet that betters the user's memory.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Dark forests of The Forgotten Wealds and Everen

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

The Obliviax moss uses an advanced system of neural branching that connect Gametophytes to the Mother Spore, allowing for almost instantaneous transfer of auditory and tactile information across the growth. Tactile information is collected from differentiated 'feeler cells' on the tips of Gametophytes and audial information is collected from rare but vital 'faculty cells' that respond to auditory changes in environment that help the moss reproduce and survive.

"Ah, Obliviax, the plant with the power to modify memories. Just make sure to never - wait, what were we talking about again?"

— C'haleron Tempest, 522 AXR

Scientific Name

Periclum Oblivius

Lifespan

10 years

Conservation Status

The moss isn't in any way endangered per se, though governmental bodies in duchies and kingdoms where Obliviax is particularly prevalent steer hikers and adventurers away, more for their safety than for the moss'.

Average Height

10cm