Alusharidust

Alusharidust is a fictional crystalline mineral used as a reagent in fantasy alchemy and enchantment. It occurs as a fine, iridescent dust or small glassy crystals that emit a soft glow in darkness. The color shifts between blue and violet, and handling often leaves a faint metallic scent on the skin.

Occurrence and formation: In-world lore, alusharidust forms where astral energy intersects with mineral-rich rock, typically in secluded caves, meteor impact sites, or ruins saturated with residual magic. It is harvested in small quantities and stored in sealed containers to prevent spontaneous arcane reactions.

Properties and preparation: The substance is not purely chemical; it comprises microscopic crystalline shards embedded with energy signatures that resonate with certain spell circles. When heated, dissolved in solvent, or blended with specific catalysts, alusharidust releases bursts of mana that can accelerate transmutation and sharpen enchantments.

Applications and effects: In alchemy, it functions as a catalyst to increase yield and purity of potions, and in magic-work it serves as a focus to stabilize or intensify spells. Effects vary by formulation and can be unstable if misapplied, sometimes causing unpredictable shifts in spell duration or potency.

Safety and regulation: Dust inhalation or prolonged exposure can lead to sensory distortion or unintended magical feedback; experts recommend protective masks, containment spells, and careful inventory control. Some jurisdictions limit possession to licensed practitioners.

See also: Etherdust, Starcrystal, Mana dust.