Lothgalen

Lothgalen (aka "Loth Nenond"; pl. "Lythgelin"; Kh. "Barag-bulum"), the "Green-flower" or "Flower of the Water-stone," is ideally suited for the caves of Moria. Although diminutive and scarce, it is rugged and, because it grows on glowing limestone, is easy to locate.

Lythgelin are small grey vines which rarely exceed 3 feet in length and flower every four months. Their roots are long, thin, and twisting, enabling them to sprout from the cracks in wet limestone ceilings. Remarkably, they secrete a peculiar substance which combines with the rock's minerals to form Nen Calgalen (S. "Green-lamp Water") and give off a faint green aura; in turn, the light periodically brightens, whenever the lime-colored flowers bloom. Vines reside in lots of 1 -100, while their flowers grow in groups of three, each with three petals. The beautiful Nen Calgalen is a thick, pasty, and deadly liquid. Once it enters the bloodstream, it spreads a searing fire and disabling torment. The victim glows green and is often unable to move; some simply die, as their minds are torn apart by awful pain. Because of the hideous nature of its effect, Dwarves usually scorn its use, even in battle. Although its fluids are baleful, the Lothgalen has less sinister uses. The vines can be pulled down intact and used to form tremendously strong ropes (twice the norm). Their pliable roots can be twisted around one another with ease to produce assuring lines. The roots can also be woven to form links for rope-chains or ladders.