The Bugger Leaf, if burned, seems to repel annoying insects, and therefore received this name. But to the farming folk, the stinging plant, that likes to grow on their fields, is annoying too.

If it has a chance to grow undisturbed (which can take a few years), it can grow up to two yards high, somewhat resembling maize (without any edible parts, though, and with hairy leaves). It is ugly, and you better cut it down before it can sting you, so much the local wisdom.

The “Elucidated Brethren of Norethel”, also “The Willingly Bound” are a monastic order. They do not indulge in secret teachings, nor do they “train for their health” to actually become super fighters. They are just isolationists that dislike where the world is going, and want to be separate and pure. And rituals and special limitations belong to it.

The Bugger Leaf, especially when fully grown, can easily irritate the skin. But if it is cut down in summer, pressed out for the juice, and it is boiled for a short while, the effect increases by a magnitude at least: If the juice is applied on skin while fresh, it itches, and starts its work. In the course of hours, it in effect dissolves the top layer of skin. While the unfortunate becomes extremely sensitive to sun, heat or cold, he is not directly harmed, and the skin can regenerate.

After a few weeks of total isolation (longer exposure to the sun could prove fatal), the adept has demonstrated his devotion and resistance, and recieved a new skin, being thus reborn into the community. After one or two accidental deaths, this test is not mandatory for new initiates.

Effect

If the skin dissolves, and the new one regrows successfuly, many old marks can vanish, smaller scars and birthmarks, wrinkles, even the face will be slightly altered, making the monk a slightly different person… while recognized by those that knew the person, they become a bit unsure… could it be a younger brother?

Note: the adepts will _not_ become younger, they will just look so, if they are lucky. Accidents in the healing period can have ugly consequences, and few are willing to undergo the whole process again. Hair, for example, looks the same way as before.

Note: with very careful treatment, the healing period could be used for the equivalent of plastic surgery. Whether this option is open is on you, a controlled regeneration is not fitting for every game world.

Note: the process could be a cure for skin cancer.

Plot Hooks

- if this works, birthmarks are not what they used to be… how to make sure about the heir of the kingdom, or a saviour of people that shall be marked by ______?

- a well known enemy has found and underwent the process, now looking familiar, but not immediately recognized. Time for revenge.

- Fashion rules! Wealthy ladies have found another means to prolong/return their beauty. The cost will be great, in money as in pains. They may be admired and loathed at once. And their rivals will search for the secret. Quest for the secret cosmetical knowledge.

User Submitted Ideas (0)