Devali is known for its fast-growing and often aggressive plant life. The plants themselves are only half the reason for this, however, as the unique chemical composition of the soil helps create this environment. The plants have adapted to this to accellerate their growth and improve nutrient absorption.
Sickness
However, this same soil can cause significant harm to other creatures that come in regular contact with it, most commonly mammals and reptiles. The soil can embed itself in skin, hair, fur, and occasionally scales, leading to plants growing out of the creature itself. In humans, it's been linked to degenerative brain disorders, resulting in forgetfullness, hallucinations, and other symptoms not dissimilar to lead poisoning.
Many creatures native to the planet, like the
loboveno, adapt around it. Over eons of evolution, they've developed resistences or symbiosis with the plants and soil, but most still fall victim to the disease. Humans who work with the soil regularly, such as gardeners, always wear gloves and wash themselves off afterward to help prevent infection.
There remains no cure for the illnesses the soil can cause, but a new topical treatment was recently made available that can help prevent issues if applied after contact with the soil. Though this is being advertise and sold through Vantas Company, it's rumored the
Syndicate had a hand in its creation.
Trademark
Starting in 3203,
Vantas Company funded research into finding the exact chemical compounds in the dirt that give it its unique properties. Once it was located,
Vantas Vohn patented the composition and trademarked the name Mirasoil for it. Legally, any soil treated with this compound is "Mirasoil", regardless of its origin.
Vantas Company has made millions off selling Mirasoil to other planets, but has done so with surprising restraint. Many assume the death of
Idorea Nassus inspired Vantas Vohn to build in more safety net with the product, including restrictions on who can buy it and strict litigation about how it can be used. Every purchase includes safety tips, also available on their website, and a portion of profits go to funding further research.
Mirasoil has since been used to great effect on multiple planets. On
Talmar, it's helped guarantee native produce is available through the harsh winters. On
Torm, having multiple harvests throughout the year helps them manage their minimal growing space. Residents of
Kuwei have also made clever use of the product within their biodomes.
Those who wish to use Mirasoil to aid in more aesthetic ventures undergo strict scrutiny, and such requests are nearly always refused.
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