Zmora Losu

Zmora Losu, or "Fate's bane" is a mysterious plant that grows in the northern reaches of the steppes, feared for the affect it appears to have on people. Legend says that anyone who eats this plant will be cursed to fail at all their enterprises for a year and a day, or else die within that time. With proper preparation, the Vagus tribsmen attempt to predict the future with the petals of the Zmora flower. They use it to determine when to move south into the mountains for the winter, and to avoid the massive predators therein. The Vagus also use Zmora as a punishment, seen worse than banishment but only slightly less terrible than death. The Vagus also claim the effects of Zmora can be hereditary, if the baby is conceived while one of its parents is under the flowers influence. Victims of this flower have been known to commit suicide, go mad, or die in terrible accidents. Those who have survived the year and a day period of curse often have to rebuild their lives after losing nearly everything they own. Such people often go on to become great leaders or magicians.
All information about the Zmora was collected by Oliver Yoddlehopper from the Vagus Tribes. It is rumored he drank some of the Zmora tea, as he was shipwrecked and killed on his way home from the northern steppes.

Basic Information

Anatomy

This forlorn flower grows with seven black petals, highlighted by deep purple veins. The flower grows on a stalk no less than half a meter long, with no leaves and roots over a meter long, strong enough to pierce the permafrost.

Ecology and Habitats

Zmora Losu grows on the low hills of the northern steppes, were only snow falls and the ground is nearly forever frozen.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Seemingly impervious to frost, Zmora Losu somehow maintains a body temperature below freezing. It grows only in very specific areas, the low hills of the steppe. Explorers have been unable to determine how it absorbs its nutrients.