Lysorian Lotus

Frequency: The Lysorian Lotus can be found around the edges of Lake Rea, the shallow portions of the Anari River, and the smaller inland lakes of Western Idalos. The vibrant pink lotus flowers are in full bloom through Ymiden and Saun. During the middle of Vhalar, the petals of the flower begin to fall into the lakes and the leaves begin to wither and perish. After the first few days of Zi’da, only the fibrous roots and hardy seeds of the plant remain, both of which are hidden well below the surface of the water. New leaves and flower bulbs appear in the final days of Ashan and fully grown flowers can be harvested starting anywhere from 25 – 35 trials into the season of Ymiden.

Toxicity/Hazard: While the plant is non-toxic, precautions must be taken when harvesting the lotus flowers. The elongated stem and roots of the Lysorian Lotus intertwine beneath the surface of the water, creating a maze of tendrils that can make harvesting the flowers a feat of endurance. Strong swimming and wading skills are encouraged. Lysorian citizens that collect the plant also advocate the use of a long staff that can be worked into the muddy bottom of the lake for an additional location to balance and regain energy. Collected stems can be attached to the pole without fear of damaging the delicate flower petals that trail behind them.

Appearance: A fully grown Lysorian Lotus will be surrounded by large water-repellant leaves that lay atop the surface of the lake or river. The flower is most notable for its striking yellow center and rosy pink petals. The petals extend outward from the pollen filled center in the shape of a basket. Lysorian lotus’ are found in large patches of thirty or more lotus plants until there is no more room for new root systems to take hold.

Properties: The leaves of the Lysorian lotus are edible, though few have found any method of cooking that tenderizes the fibrous material into something the denizens of Western Idalos prefer. The lotus can also be eaten, though most are saved for decorative arrangements or flower pressing. The brightly hued tips of the flower have been rumored to have properties similar to that of potent aphrodisiacs, but the process needed to refine the petals (if one exists) has been lost to time.

Other Information: The Lysorian Lotus is the subject of many folktales, and the flowers are often used to decorate lakeside weddings of affluent couples. The flower is believed to promote a sense of open communication within the couple, provided it is harvested the afternoon of the wedding. More rarely, the lotus can be found in temple bouquets dedicated to deities in towns where lotus harvesting is a profitable endeavor. A silhouette of the lotus is often featured in wax seals – a subtle reminder to be honest and open in all written communication.

Creator: Inali