Serender
Serender, also known as Serandula, Enchanted Lavender or Calming Lavender, is a magical plant renowned for its potent calming properties. A close relative of the common lavender (Lavandula), this rare variant is sought after by alchemists and healers for its ability to soothe even the most agitated state into tranquility. Legend has it that a mere whiff is enough to pacify a berserker mid-rage.
Appearance
Serender shares the general morphology of its non-magical counterpart, with silvery-green foliage and purple flowering spikes. However, its blossoms emit a soft, ethereal glow, especially during twilight hours, and the flowers are a deeper violet with subtle silver streaks. The plant's aura is said to shimmer lightly, a visual cue of its latent magical essence.
Habitat
While traditional lavender thrives in sunny, well-drained environments, Serender is often found in areas where magical energies seep from the earth. It is not uncommon to find these plants in the wild near ancient standing stones, ley lines, or abandoned wizard towers, where the soil has been enriched by residual spells and enchantments.
Cultivation and Care
Cultivating Serender requires a keen understanding of both horticulture and basic enchantment. The soil must be prepared with a mixture of mundane compost and ground moonstone to replicate its natural habitat's magical conductivity. The plant requires the same light exposure as ordinary lavender but also benefits from nightly exposure to starlight, which seems to enhance its magical properties.
Watering should be done with spring water mixed with a tincture of chamomile to maintain its soothing qualities. Pruning the plant during a waning moon is said to enhance its calming effects further.
Uses in Magic
The primary use of Serender is in the crafting of potions and incenses designed to induce calm and peace. A small sachet of its dried flowers placed under a pillow is believed to grant restful sleep, free from nightmares. When used in spellwork, it can diffuse anger and aggression, promoting harmony and understanding between disputing parties.
Alchemists have been known to distill its essence into a potent elixir, which can temporarily pacify magical creatures known for their ferocity. In diluted form, the plant's extract can be used to cleanse areas afflicted with unrest or malevolent enchantments.
Precautions
While Serender is not inherently dangerous, overexposure to its effects can lead to lethargy or an unnatural state of calmness. It is advised to use it sparingly, especially in potion-making. Care must be taken to ensure that its growth is contained, as the plant's ability to absorb ambient magic can inadvertently affect nearby flora and fauna.
Due to its potential for misuse, the cultivation and sale of Serender are often regulated within magical communities, requiring appropriate permits and adherence to ethical harvesting practices.
Trivia
- When Kathrin Summerdale was under the influence of Wildrage Potion, Lycia Wintergale managed to calm her by rubbing the leaves of a Serender stalk between her fingers and rubbing the scent into Kathrin's nose.