Cureflower

The Cureflower is a rare yet easily identifiable plant found in the diverse regions of Alterra, known for its striking lime-green foliage and vibrant flowers. The plant is highly sought after for its semi-magical properties, which allow it to cure a wide range of ailments when smoked or consumed. Most Cureflowers bear pink flowers, which are widely recognized as the beneficial variant. These pink-flowered Cureflowers are used in traditional medicine across Alterra, treating conditions from common colds to more serious illnesses. The plant’s curative properties have made it a valuable resource, with healers and herbalists often seeking it out for its potent effects.

However, there exists a less common variant of the Cureflower with yellow-orange flowers, which poses a significant danger to those who consume it. Unlike its pink-flowered counterpart, the yellow-orange variant is highly toxic and can poison anyone who smokes or eats it. The symptoms of poisoning include severe nausea, dizziness, and in some cases, death. This dangerous variant looks very similar to the beneficial one, leading to cases of mistaken identity that have had fatal consequences. The presence of both types in the wild adds an element of risk to harvesting Cureflowers, as even experienced gatherers must be cautious.

The exact relationship between the pink-flowered and yellow-orange-flowered Cureflowers remains a mystery. Botanists and scholars in Alterra have debated whether they are two different species or simply variations of the same plant. Despite extensive study, no conclusive evidence has been found to determine the origin of these differences. Some theories suggest that environmental factors or magical influences may cause the plant to develop its toxic properties, while others propose that they are indeed distinct species that have evolved separately.