Shimmerspice

Shimmerspice is a magical spice that grows only on a handful of small islands far to the southeast of Asuria. Shipped in exclusively by the South Seas Company, it is highly prized both for its magical effects and its intense flavour and aroma.  

Culinary Use

In Caelester, most people only ever see shimmerspice as a hard dried berry, which is grated or crushed into a powder directly before adding to food. It has a complex and bold flavour, combining the warm and sweet taste of cinnamon with the sharp scent and taste of cloves. It is most commonly used to add a savoury flavour to desserts, but is also popular in a variety of entrees. However, due to its rarity, it is a rare treat for most.  

Magical properties

While its flavour alone would make shimmerspice extremely valuable, it is most widely sought after for its ability to enhance healing and one's sense of well being. Those who are ill or injured will recover more quickly if fed meals seasoned with it, and everyone who consumed it, experiences a euphoric high comparable to what someone might feel shortly after recovering from a severe illness.   These properties become more intense in larger doses, and a number of apothecaries around the city prepare a tincture of shimmerspice. However, those using medical doses have to be careful about the side effects. The euphoric sensation from taking these large doses can be addictive, and too high a dose can cause the Shimmers.  

Cultivation

Shimmerspice is grown on a handful of small islands in a region far from Asuria, by the local population. After a troubled start to the relationship, the people of these isles agreed to sell Shimmerspice exclusively to the South Seas Company. In return, the South Seas Company maintains a blockade around the islands, preserving their independence from any other interests that might intrude upon their homeland.