Alianna

Queen Alianna, the Malefic Dryad, was once an apprentice to Aeron, the Eleusian whittler.

After being captured and tortured by Mhaldorian ritualists led by Entaro and Eoka Nithilar in 881 AF, Alianna was rescued by an Eleusian war party and returned home to the village of Eleusis to convalesce. After regaining her health, she announced that she would be known as the Malefic Dryad and declared her intention to wreak vengeance upon her former captors.

Until 997 AF, she could often be found wandering between the village and the forests in which she stalked her prey.

Alianna was instrumental in assisting King Tu'eras during 993 AF, when he was forced into a long sleep by his mother, Celaabi, the Tsol'aa Queen Mother. His mother sacrificed herself to Mhaldor in his stead, and Alianna, with the assistance of Eleusis, prepared a pungent brew to rouse him.

Alianna stood vigil over his bedside in the Aalen forest after administering this brew, and during the time after he woke, they formed a relationship. Alianna and King Tu'eras were wed in 997 AF, and Alianna is now known as Queen Alianna, the Malefic Dryad, now residing in the Aalen forest with her husband.

She opened a flower shop in the Aalen forest after the wedding - a gift for all adventurers to enjoy.

Whilst her ritual wares may be purchased by anyone, their full use is restricted to those attuned to Nature.

Alianna's Ritual Wares

Pale doeskin bag of bones - 4000gp

Petite enough to fit in the palm of one's hand, a small bag's pale doeskin exterior glistens with the soft lustre of protective oils. Prickly sprigs of purple thistle loop through the muscular fibres of serosa at the pouch's top. Elegantly drawn through the casing, treated catgut cinches the opening closed. Clinking together when jostled, the contents within clink together, their collisions emitting a percussive melody.

Bundle of rosemary - 100gp

Dark green sprigs of rosemary are tied together with cotton twine into a bundle of greenery. Partially dried, the curled leaves retain enough moisture to feel soft to the touch. The herbs give off a pleasant aroma, scenting the air nearby.

Bundle of lavender - 100gp

Light green stalks of lavender are tied together with cotton twine into a bundle of greenery, the ends adorned with dark purple flowers. Partially dried, the curled leaves retain enough moisture to feel soft to the touch. The herbs give off a pleasant aroma, scenting the air nearby.

Bundle of sage - 100gp

Light green stalks of sage are tied together with cotton twine into a bundle of greenery. Partially dried, the curled leaves retain enough moisture to feel soft to the touch. The herbs give off a pleasant aroma, scenting the air nearby.

Bundle of willow - 100gp

Light green willow boughs are tied together with cotton twine into a bundle of greenery. Partially dried, the curled leaves retain enough moisture to feel soft to the touch. The branches give off a pleasant aroma, scenting the air nearby.

Bundle of cedar - 100gp

Branches of dark green cedar are tied together with cotton twine into a bundle of greenery. Partially dried, the evergreen sprigs retain enough moisture to feel flexible to the touch. The branches give off a pleasant aroma, scenting the air nearby.

Badger skull shaker - 2500gp

Bleached by the sun, the long femur of a large animal forms the grip of this rudimentary shaker. One end of the bone is left adorned, its bulging epiphysis forming a natural grip. Affixed at the other, a hollow badger skull stares out in death, its vacant eyes presiding above chisel-like incisors. Across the length of the bone, several gut cords strung with the teeth are looped, rattling together noisily whenever the implement moves.

Roaring lion skull - 5000gp

Fixed in a ferocious growl, the skull of a lion has been cleaned of all flesh. A prominent ridge of bone projects upwards from the cranial vault above large orbits resting atop massive osseous arches at each side. Shaped like blades, strong carnassial teeth line the skeletal mandibles, giving way to sharp incisors at the front. Four large canines curve menacingly around them, shrouding the wearer in the beasts final roar.

Snarling wolf skull - 5000gp

Fixed in a feral snarl, the skull of a wolf has been cleaned of all flesh. A flat forehead with a small crest, a broad muzzle, and a large arching bone along each side differentiate the beasts skeletal form from other canine predators. Several cracks in the bone from injuries sustained in prior hunts mark the osseous remains.

Screeching eagle skull - 5000gp

Keratinous beak opened in a perpetual screech, the bleached skull of a lightning eagle has been cleaned of all flesh. The hollow skulls top tapers downward into a solid sheet of bone, separating two vacant sockets. Slender, pointed post-orbitals differentiate the avians skeletal remains from other massive raptors. Still affixed, a bulbous black beak spreads open in a bestial cry.

Crude stick doll - 1500gp

Bound together by a woven cord of dried grass, six raspberry canes make up this simplistic semblance of a person. One leaf-bereft stick forms the head and torso, crossed by another thornless length representing the arms. Two more branches cross together, attaching and forming shoulders at the top and extending to make crude legs at the bottom.

Ritual knife of pale stag's horn - 1000gp

Emerging from a rough, wrinkled burr, pale grey stag horn curves into a small ritual knife. The bone branches mid-length into a smaller prong forming a secondary grip. The naturally curved shape of the shed antler has been ground to a keen edge on one side, tapering to a sharp tip.

Alianna's Flowers

Available for purchase at "A seed stall below the Queen's workshop" in the Aalen forest.

a vicious flytrap - 1200gp

This unusual plant grows from a dirty clay pot, its sinuous roots trailing over the edges and protruding from the holes in the underside. The flytrap itself is a luscious green, and forms the unmistakable shape of a human hand facing palm up with the fingers slightly bent. The flesh of the inner plant is a vibrant pink, with dozens of small yellow spikes spread around the entire surface, each dripping a sweet-scented purple liquid.

a bag of seeds - 1000gp

Small and rounded, the sides of this cloth pouch bulge outwards, the plain weave near to bursting with its cargo. Of unassuming make, a simple drawstring cinches the bag tight at the neck, wound into a knot and sealed with once-molten lead. A seal of a crowned willow is stamped upon the exterior, the letter 'G' picked out in white thread beneath its spreading roots.

Seeds

a dragon rose seed - 2500gp

The ridged contours of this small, dark seed gleam dully in the light, dirt and moss clinging to its exterior. Rippling with prismatic colour, the surface offers but a hint at the promise encapsulated within.

a smooth gooseneck barnacle - 2500gp

Comprised of five smooth translucent plates and a long purplish penducle, this barnacle could fit in the palm of a child's hand. Edged with crimson, each plate sports a serrated edge where the minuscule gaps present themselves. A myriad of brown, filamentous cirri dance about hungrily between the openings.

a puffy golden seedpod - 2500gp

Shimmering flecks of gold cover the papery shell of this fragile seedpod. The entire pod is round and lightweight, the size of a ogre's fist, and a small seed rattles around inside of it.

an odorous red seed - 2500gp

Oval in shape, this small red seed bears no clear markings that would distinguish the origins. Coated in a hard shell, a faint odorous smell lingers that would turn the stomach of the hardiest of warriors.

a small seed - 2500gp

Less than a human thumbnail in size or weight, this tiny ovoid seed is pale lime in hue. Ridged markings trace burrs along the exterior, fading to pearlescent white near their peaks.

Stunning Florals

a vibrant nosegay of yellow daisies - 1750gp

Tied with a white satin ribbon, six yellow daisies are gathered into this fragrant nosegay. Short stems keep the flowers easy to hold and the beautiful daisies are framed by deep green leaves. Tipping the end of the ribbons are tiny specks of diamond, making them sparkle as they flutter.

an indigo orchid - 1250gp

Rich indigo petals adorn this flower, with a light violet stripe at the centre of each. The edge of each velvety petal is frilled, and the long stem is twisted with a piece of wire, suitable for wearing through a buttonhole or in the hair.

a yellow orchid - 1250gp

Five large, round petals of sunny yellow fan outward from the centre of this orchid, with fine, spidery veins of orange running across their surfaces. A showy lip of fiery orange extends from the centre of the flower like a sixth petal, larger than the rest, its edges delicately fluted like the hem of a fine garment. At the very heart of the flower is a slender column of white, dusted with glittering golden pollen.

a spider orchid - 1250gp

Delicate hairs sparkle with countless clear crystalline pollen deposits over the entirety of this tall, slender flower. Five long, spreading of petals curve gracefully away from a broad, downward-curved, spider-shaped centre of purplish-brown, yellow at their widest point and gradually fading into a deep scarlet at each pointed tip. A patch of bluish markings form a rough capital 'H' on the velvety upper surface of the lip.

a heart-shaped red anthurium flower - 1250gp

A single waxy petal in the shape of a two-dimensional heart, its hue a bright red, bursts from the tip of the long, deep green stem, more like a vividly coloured leaf than a flower upon second glance. From the centre of that red spathe rises a fuzzy, slender yellow column, the tiny clusters upon it the true flowers of this plant. The stark contrast between the red, yellow, and deep green dazzles the eyes, but the effect is delicately reined in by the graceful simplicity of the flower's architecture.

a cluster of angel-wing begonia flowers - 1250gp

Clusters of blushing petals dangle from a similarly scarlet-coloured stem. Two waxy green leaves at the base of the thick, jointed stem resemble the wings of angels from which these begonias receive their name. Metallic silver flecks are freckled across the top of the leaves, while their undersides match the colour of the stem. The petals are flat and broad, almost heart-shaped.

a bird of paradise flower - 1250gp

This spectacular bloom from a bird of paradise plant is a marvellous example of biological variety. A long stalk holds up the flower, the stem sharply widening and flattening as it nears the tip. This part of the former bud is slightly boat-shaped, its insides and edges a wondrous fuchsia colour. From this shell emerge a set of flowers coloured brilliant orange, accented by sharp lances of vivid blue petals. When viewed overall, this flower brings to mind a bird's head crowned by a plume of colourful feathers.

a cluster of bleeding heart flowers - 1250gp

A long, thin stem curves gently under the weight of the flowers hanging from it. A foot long, the stem supports a flower about every inch, although two have been cut off so that the stem may be put in a vase. Each flower has two broad white petals pushing outwards, causing the top centre area to create the customary indent of the heart shape. From between the split bottom of the broad petals, a crimson teardrop-shaped section pushes out, resembling a drop of blood.

an anniversary flower - 1250gp

This beautiful and exceedingly rare plant sparkles with an inner light. An elegant silver pistil rises from the center of the blossom, circled by four unique stamens, one silver, one black, one gold, and one blue. Twelve tear-shaped petals curl outward like cupped hands, completing the exquisite flower. A sweet, citrus scent clings to the little bloom, inspiring a momentary surge of inspiration.

a carrion flower - 1250gp

The five petals of the carrion flower fan outward in a star configuration around the blossom's centre, the stamen within replicating the design. Muted bisque is dappled over with brownish-red speckles, as though an artist had coated the petals first in gold and then splattered maroon paint overtop. Overshadowing its visual glory though is the flower's scent. From its heart emanates a smell that mimics exactly the odour of decaying animal flesh in all its visceral glory.

a datura flower - 1250gp

This singular, sparsely branched stem is dark purple in colour and completely hairless. Alternate leaves located on either side of the stalk bend gracefully away from the throat of the flower, which is marked with thick veins of still darker violet. Five shallow lobe-shaped petals form an acute point at their centre, pale purple and grey in colour, and forming a spreading star-pattern.

a slender stem of pastel flowers - 1250gp

Neatly held together by a white satin ribbon that forms a single stem, these assorted wildflowers emit a faint, floral scent as their paper-thin petals flutter delicately. Butter-soft leaves frame each pastel bloom, and a small, silver pin allows the stem to be worn like a corsage or boutonniere.

a dusky purple rose boutonniere - 1250gp

Curling silver wire captures this single purple rose, the colour of the petals akin to a deep twilight night. Wrapped along the length of the stem, a purple satin ribbon embraces a silver pin to hold the boutonniere in place when worn. Highlighting the outer petals of the flower, amethyst dust sends sparkling glints of light into the air.

a velvet-ribboned boutonniere - 1250gp

Lengths of fine velvet in rich shades of aubergine, sapphire, and garnet rise up in delicate, short loops from a binding of wrapped silver wire. Black feathers peek out from the fabric, and a smattering of milky pearls glistens across the boutonniere.

a white trillium - 1250gp

Three elongated white petals comprise this simple flower. Paper-thin and velvety to the touch, they curl gently back from the centre to reveal a ring of tiny yellow stamens surrounding a slim pistil. The stem has been cut short, making the flower ideal for use in the hair or as a boutonniere.

a sanguine sunflower - 1250gp

Dense florets, auburn as sunset, cluster in the centre of this flower. An intricate, spiralling pattern emerges from their growth, twisting out to the edge of the circle. Surrounding the dark core is a frame of wide petals the dusky colour of dried blood.

a shy eyebright cluster - 1250gp

A brilliant green stem, reddened in parts, divides into approximately ten pairs of flowers. Consisting of a hood of two fused mauve petals and a skirt composed of three longer, the flower opens up into ruffled bracts that fade to white at the throat. Prominent deep purple lines extend vertically along the surfaces of the petals, with blotches of bright yellow on their undersides.

an indigo velvet rose - 1250gp

Crafted from exquisite velvet, this rose is a depiction of a flower in full bloom. Stiffened with slender wire, each petal is held perfectly in place. Rich, vibrant green satin creates a sturdy stem, and two flourishing leaves perch either side. A polished silver pin enables this piece to be worn.

a sombre black tulip - 1250gp

A long, elegant stem holds the weight of this beautifully sombre black tulip and is laced with a black ribbon to allow it to be worn. Curling upwards, the goblet-shaped flower flourishes with health even though symbolising the dearly departed.

Bounteous Bouquets

a bouquet of red roses and Vastar's breath - 3500gp

Twelve perfect red roses in various stages of bloom, from slender rosebuds to lush, full blooms, are nestled amidst sprigs of delicate Vastar's breath. The airy, cotton-like sprays of tiny, gauzy white flowers called Vastar's breath, with trifoliate leaves of deep green, set off the jewel-like red of the roses with dramatic intensity. Their thin, supple green stems are bound together with the thicker, tough stems of the roses by a length of white lace, carefully tied into a bow.

a dainty bouquet of winter berries - 3500gp

Slender stems, denuded of thorns, twine and are bound with a slim satin ribbon, the virginal white tied in an elegant bow. Splaying above the delicate grip, a ring of holly defends a pale and gently curling spray of mistletoe with its insistent hue and prickle. Dancing in partnership atop the foliage, the red and white berries of this winter's bounty sparkle with a light rime of frost.

a simple bouquet of wildflowers - 3500gp

Simple flowers from the grasslands of central Sapience have been gathered into a loose bouquet and tied with a yellow ribbon. Buttercups and larkspur provide bursts of colour with their bold hues, enhanced by the tiny white flowers and fern-like foliage of yarrow. The subtle presence of sage is unmistakable within the greenery, imparting a pleasant fragrance to the arrangement.

a bouquet of fresh fireflowers - 3500gp

Three large fireflowers are joined with a ribbon of red silk, their slender green stems a brilliant contrast to the flame-like blooms they support. Each flower features a whorl of brilliant red and orange petals shaped like teardrops, the entire blossom as large as a hand. As the petals shift and move like the flickering flames of a fire, brilliant golden centres are revealed like sparkling flashes of light.

a bouquet of tropical flowers - 3500gp

Bold crane flowers, showy pink hibiscus, and crimson bromeliad blooms make up this exotic tropical arrangement. Among the larger flowers are entwined the curling tendrils of skyflower vines and a cascade of trumpet-shaped blossoms of the red jade vine. Mingling together in a heady cloud of of fragrance, the aromas of each flower combine to create a tantalising sensation unlike any concentrated perfume.

a susurrant bouquet of wild grasses - 3500gp

Secured with an intricate knot of lightly fraying twine, this bound selection of dried wild grasses displays a beautiful array of pastel hues. Nestled amidst the pale greens, blues, and purples of the rustle, tiny brown and yellow bullrushes lend their soft, seed rattle to the ensemble. Interrupting the dried composition, life ever insistent, an intrepid, svelte vine works to tangle tenderly throughout the bouquet.

an impressive wedding bouquet - 3500gp

An extravagant amount of white roses creates this wedding bouquet, laced together with silk ribbon and bound with lengths of gold wire that glitter with cut diamonds wrapped along its length. No expense has been spared as each petal of the perfectly blooming flower shimmers with a light dusting of crushed opal and across each leaf, drops of faceted emeralds sparkle like kisses of dew. Trailing from the long stems, several fluttering paper butterflies dangle from almost invisible strings, following the bouquet wherever it goes.

a bouquet of stargazer lilies - 3500gp

The lilies in this bouquet shine brilliantly, their bright purple petals extending in a star-shaped fashion from the centre and fringed in white. Despite the magnificent beauty of the blooms, they are overshadowed by perfect pistils that twinkle brightly, making them appear as though they each contain their own little star. The flowers are held together by a silver cord wrapped delicately around the stems.