Krumaw

A Krumaw

Overview

The Krumaw (in the Orcish tongue) or Fyralis rubrifloris (in High Luthnori) is a small herbaceous plant that grows between 50 and 80 centimeters in height. Found primarily along the humid banks of rivers and oases in arid or semi-arid regions of the Red Steppes, it stands out for its remarkable adaptation to both water scarcity and the intense solar radiation typical of these environments.

Description

The Kurmaw's compound leaves display a vibrant crimson coloration—a physiological adaptation that serves as protection against excessive sunlight, acting as a natural filter that reduces water loss through transpiration. These leaves grow in thin, symmetrical pairs with nearly invisible veins and respond to the slightest touch with an instant retraction movement. This closing reaction is a defense mechanism against herbivores and insects, and it also helps to reduce moisture loss during periods of environmental stress.

The plant’s main attraction lies in its spherical inflorescences, which emerge at the tips of its branches as small pinkish globes filled with delicate filaments. These structures, rich in viscous nectar, serve a dual function: they attract drought-resistant pollinators—such as certain solitary bees and diurnal beetles—and also release volatile compounds with a sweet, earthy scent at dusk. These compounds induce mild drowsiness or relaxation in approaching animals — a form of passive and selective deterrence.

The roots of the Fyralis are dense and highly branched, reaching deep into the sandy soil in search of underground water, allowing the plant to survive even during long dry spells. Its stem, covered in fine glandular spines, stores resinous compounds with a bitter taste that both inhibit microbial infections and suppress the appetite of smaller animals.

Range

The Krumaw is native to the Red Steppes of East Ciradon.

Krumaw native range and climate circled.

Uses

Among the orcs of the Red Steppes, the Krumaw holds deep sacred and cultural value. It is used to prepare a hot infusion known as Karavhul, traditionally consumed from a clay gourd with a metal spout, sipped slowly through a hollow, carved bone tube used to draw the hot liquid gently.

The plant’s leaves are harvested at dawn or dusk, dried in the shade or toasted on hot stone, while the flowers are fermented overnight in treated hide pouches. When mixed in equal parts, leaves and flowers produce an infusion with euphoric and visionary effects, used in seasonal festivals, lunar rituals, and victory celebrations. During these events, the gourd is passed from hand to hand, and participants report hearing the voices of ancient warriors and having prophetic visions, believing the spirits of the ancestors speak through the drink’s smoke and heat.

When prepared solely with toasted leaves and plant ash from local trees, Karavhul becomes a powerful stimulant used by warriors before battles and long hunts. In this form, the infusion heightens reflexes, dulls pain, reddens the eyes, and induces a furious state known as the “Blood of War,” during which the orc becomes relentless and irrational. After its effects fade, however, a deep exhaustion follows—sleep that may last a full sun cycle.

Repeated use of this type of infusion is controlled by elders and shamans, who guard the secrets of its preparation and decide who is ready to bear its weight. The first time a young orc drinks Karavhul is considered a rite of passage: they must prepare their own mixture, endure the delirium, and, if possible, keep their eyes open until the end of the ceremony.

Conservation Status

As of year 40 of the Third Age, the Krumaw is not considered to be threatened.

Trivia

Kurmaws was created by Entropico on the World of Tyrrell discord.

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