Quilcap

Written by CrazyJack

A Quilcap is a species of fungus that grows in caves and other dark places, most abundantly in the regions of Mirkireth, Ithildras and Graeonn, although the mushroom can be found less frequently in more eastern regions. The mushrooms usually grow in isolation, and are sought after for their magical properties.

ANATOMY & MORPHOLOGY

The Quilcap is a glowing mushroom, usually pink, purple and blue in colour, with spots of varying colours on the cap and decorative glowing rings on the stalks. Around the rim of the cap are smaller glowing spots which are usually purple or pink in colour. In addition to its bright colours, the mushroom also faintly hums with magical energy and can sometimes produce small bursts of glittering magical clouds which are often mistaken for Fae or Pixies.

MAGICAL CAPABILITIES

Quilcaps pulsate with a base magical energy, which acts as a primary ingredient for many potions and ritual spells, and as such the mushroom is used frequently by mages and alchemists alike. This magical energy is also the cause of the glowing effect and sparkling bursts the mushroom gives off.

LIFE CYCLE

Quilcaps grow primarily in dark environments, and full growth can take between 3 and 7 weeks. When fully grown, the mushroom produces spores which are released with the magical bursts of energy produced by the Quilcap, and are subsequently carried away by the small clouds of magical mist, until they are deposited on another surface, at which point the spores germinate and more mushrooms begin to grow. However, due to the magical energies given off by the Quilcap, only 1 can grow in an approximate 3 metre squared area, as they need space enough to absorb maximum nutrients in order to grow to full maturity.

USES, BYPRODUCTS & EXPLOITATION

Quilcaps are farmed in some Paédor, Dwarven and Human settlements, preferably where there is ample room, low levels of light and sufficiently damp soil. The mushroom is harvested and traded widely, as it is used in a multitude of basic potions and sometimes ritual spells. The mushroom is also edible when cooked, and is used in a variety of dishes by the different races and kingdoms of the world, the mushroom has a rich and nutty flavour which goes well with soups and stews.

Scientific Name

Telum Klor

Lifespan

2 months

Average Height

18cm

Average Weight

84 - 100g