Mistleflower Oil
Mistleflower oil is an extract of the mistleflower valued in alchemical and arcane synthesis. It is a heavy, viscous liquid the colour of molten amber, almost glowing in low light. Distilled slowly from the scorched-orange petals of the mistleflower, it is treasured not only for its alchemical potency, but for a scent unlike any other in the known world, perhaps second only to the even more subtle aroma of Arcane Amplification Perfume.
The moment the vial is uncorked, the scent of mistleflower oil unfolds in layers, shifting as if in response to the body heat and aura of the person who wears or works with it.
First Impression
A sharp, ozone-bright top note rises like the air just before a thunderstorm, metallic and expectant, with a faint crackle beneath it, as though something invisible is charging. It evokes the scent of wet stone, scorched bark, and lightning-struck earth.Mid Notes
As the initial shock fades, the heart of the scent blooms, resinous and floral, but dry and complex. There are notes of burnt citrus peel, wild saffron, and smoked honeycomb, softened by a cool, mineral thread that recalls high mountain air. A ghost of something floral lingers, less a bloom, more the memory of one.Base Notes
The scent settles into a low, rich chord, amberwood, arcane musk, and sun-warmed parchment, like ancient spellbooks in a library no one has entered in years. This is inherited from the fungal aroma of the stormroot mycelium and the stormcap fruiting spores, a species which has a close symbiotic relationship with mistleflower. A faint bitter edge, like the last sip of a spiced tonic, grounds it. Those attuned to magic often claim they can sense memories or latent thoughts when breathing it in.History & Usage
Cultural Significance and Usage
The oil was never mass-produced, as distillation had to occur within a week of a storm, and the petals were prone to disintegration if mishandled. Alchemists employed it as a stabilising agent in the production of Synaptic Unbinding Potion. Although the complete ingredients and complex techniques for the correct synthesis of this highly prized substance were a closely guarded secret, it was well known that mistleflower oil was required in significant quantities. This was undoubtedly its most important use, but the oil played a role in many other less valuable formulations.
Among unbound women within the inner circles of the organisation, mistleflower oil was often worn as a perfume of choice. It marked the bearer as one who traffics in secret knowledge, and has the power to bend storms and dreams to their will. In whispered tradition, it was said that the oil reveals hidden meanings in old texts or wakes up dormant spells when burned. These properties are not well attested and most mages are doubtful of the oil's efficacy as an unmixed reagent.
Type
Organic
Value
The market is variable, and prices are moderate to high as alchemical reagents go.
Rarity
Uncommon but not as rare or expensive as Arcane Amplification Perfume (for example).
Odor
Rich and complex. Sweet but not overpoweringly so. (See main article).
Taste
Less pronounced than the smell. A hint of honey and camphor.
Color
Translucent amber with a faint glow in full darkness.
Boiling / Condensation Point
280 degrees centigrade
Melting / Freezing Point
-25 degrees centigrade
Common State
Liquid
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