Nousta-Nopeüsta
The nousta-nopeüsta (Dwarvish for "mushroom of swiftness") is a mushroom native to the caves of Erdelan. It is best known for its properties as a stimulant and euphoriant, potent even at small doses.
Properties
Material Characteristics
A mature nousta-nopeüsta mushroom is a pale ivory shade, while juvenile ones often have a slight blue or purple undertone. The stem is thin and roughly 4-6 inches long, and the cap is somewhat oblong.
A fresh nousta-nopeüsta is rubbery, slimy, and difficult to chew. The taste has been compared to a mixture of slightly rancid ricotta cheese and black peppercorns. When dried, the sliminess disappears, but the pungent aspects of the taste grow stronger.
Physical & Chemical Properties
The nousta-nopeüsta mushroom is known to increase activity in the central nervous system and circulatory system when ingested by a Humanoid. This seems to be effective in all humanoid creatures, though an Elf or Half-Elf will have a lesser circulatory response. It increases awareness and focus in some people and produces a heightened emotional state in most users.
This effect typically begins within 20 minutes of ingesting the mushroom and can last for 4-12 hours depending on dosage, body weight, and species of user.
Geology & Geography
Nousta-nopeüsta grows best in low-light underground caves, such as those built by the dwarves of Erdelan or found naturally along the border between Draxhaven and Scalados. It is not native to the caves of Filia, but was introduced there by dwarven farmers in Y420 of the Age of Complexity and thrives in the environment. Today, Filia produces 30% of the world's nousta-nopeüsta.
Life & Expiration
A fresh nousta-nopeüsta will lose its potency within 5-7 days of harvest. When picked and dried, the nousta-nopeüsta's active compounds become significantly more stable. A dried nousta-nopeüsta remains potent for up to six months.
History & Usage
Everyday use
Because of its energizing properties, the nousta-nopeüsta is often added to foods and beverages consumed by workers or soldiers. Dried nousta-nopeüsta is the most commonly consumed form. To mask the unusual taste, it is typically added to the strongest-flavored foods available, usually cheeses or strongly brewed herbal teas. It is a major ingredient in Vin la-Filia.
Cultural Significance and Usage
Followers of Dionysus use the nousta-nopeüsta as a symbol of good luck and a highly honored way to get in touch with one's deepest emotions. In the general population, young people often consume it before festivals or parties as a way to heighten the enjoyment of the event.
Distribution
Law & Regulation
Sale, possession, and use of nousta-nopeüsta mushrooms are increasingly becoming illegal in many jurisdictions of Dreibach, particularly the Central Duchy. This is because of a widespread cultural turn away from mind-altering substances of all kinds, spurred by the increased presence of the Order of Sarastro in wider society.
Type
Biomaterial
I really love all the detail in this, especially the taste of the mushroom and how it affects humanoids. I also like that you ave included what it means in terms of gameplay.