Bies Barbs

Bies barbs (Ur. Kolcy Biesa) is a dark brown plant native to the coldest parts of Kryafotia (northern Urenburg and the Starogradsk peninsula). It grows abundantly in these freezing regions, reaching up to 2 meters in height. While incredibly difficult, it's possible to cultivate it in small portions in warmer parts of the provinces. It takes its name from the Zvenarok demon, Bies.

Uses

Culinary

Bies barbs are mainly cultivated to be used as a spice. The "barbs" of a harvested bies barb are dried and grinded up to a fine powder. It's used in dishes and beverages to strengthen the taste and aroma, giving a strong kick with each bite and sip. Eating bies spice in large quantities can cause hallucinations and panic attacks.

Alchemy

Bies barbs have alchemical properties. When added to a brew, it can fortify psychomancy, cause magiya and fire weakness, and fear. Psychomancers and doctors greatly favor fortify psychomancy potions made out of bies barbs.

Drug

Due to the bies barbs' hallucinogenic properties, it has been used as a recreational drug by some. Fresh barbs are rolled and smoked, which causes strong hallucinations. It's sometimes smoked during rituals related to Mersotifier. Many say that the smoke lures the bies, which can be interpreted either positively or negatively, depending on the person.