Shadestool

A Collaborative Work of Krurnistal Xen'alza & Elias Dods.

Physical Description

In the various shaded areas of the Blistered Expanse sits a spotted fungus of simple design. The Shadestool is a coral-colored fungus with a sturdy white trunk. While the sizes do vary based on the viable nutrients in the area, the average Shadestool is a mere foot in height, and a foot and a half diameter of the cap. Gentle dangling tendrils form under the coral-colored cap, breaking off and grasping to bootstraps or greaves until they eventually fall off and sprout a new Shadestool. Strong “roots” in the form of mycelium burrow deep into the earth, pulling up what water and nutrients it can find. This mycelium also secures the fungus down, supporting it from being toppled by the harsh winds that blow through the region.

Properties

As all things are that have survived in this extreme and inhospitable expanse, Shadestools are a horrible and powerful thing that hunger for the flesh of any who dare seat their rumpus upon its surface.

That is what most consider to be a joke.

Shadestools are a completely benign part of nature, having no strong effect on the world around it. Its sturdy structure and soft cap provide a welcomed, yet slight comfort for those seeking a place to rest away from the sun. With some moderate preparation, Shadestools can even be cooked and consumed, though its slight woodsy taste paired with the fungus’ spongy flesh makes for an unappetizing meal.

Seats of the Dead

Harsh landscapes are home to ferocious flora and fauna, however, the Shadestool defies this ideology. For those who wander the wastes of the Blistered Expanse, this simple fungus offers a small relief in the region's secluded shadows. From close observation and mystical insight, it is understood that the Shadestool fungus has a shockingly long lifecycle, akin to that of trees in a forest. They grow relatively quickly and produce tendrils capable of reproduction in a seasonal cycle, despite few changes in its surroundings. Should they remain undisturbed and undamaged, Shadestools can live for upwards of a thousand years.

Stories tell of the reanimated dead often seeking out these Shadestools in attempts to spread some pestilent touch, or otherwise corrupt these unique florae. Despite such rumors circulating about these natural pieces of furniture, these sturdy, yet gentle mushroom present no true danger. It does not seek far and wide for nutrients and has no perceivable threats in the ecosystem surrounding it. Even its origins are unknown, as this species of fungus could be a natural evolution of the past or a recent addition caused by druidic magic.

Scientific Name

Morenhy keiracando

Geographic Distribution

• Blistered Expanse

Key Characteristics

Ordinary Fungus, Basic Natural Furniture, Unfallen Cultivation.

Locations Found

In the lands of the Blistered Expanse and in Unfallen controlled settlements.

Rarity

Abundant.