Goldenroot

Goldenroot is unearthed from magical forests during solstices. At any other time of the year, the root is inert. It takes the form of twisted, golden roots. Properly prepared, goldenroot is used in healing elixirs and anti-curse potions. Goldenroot can only be collected seasonally from limited locations. It is typically sold along the “Verdant Corridor,” a route managed by druidic collectives. Merchants must pay a tithe to the druids for harvesting rights, adding to its high market price. The trade involves several checkpoints to ensure ethical sourcing, as an unchecked gatherer can easily deplete this scarce resource.

Alchemists and healers prize Goldenroot for its powerful restorative properties, while nobles purchase it for protective wards. Apothecaries in urban centers often pay a premium to ensure a steady supply. Preparations of goldenroot are guaranteed to sell out long before the next solstice comes around.

Goldenroot is highly perishable, losing potency if not kept moist and alive. Merchants often use enchanted terrariums to best preserve its vitality during transit. Smugglers sometimes bypass druids’ tithes by drying the root, but this diminishes its effectiveness and risks rejection by buyers.