Downy Antler
[Other Names]
Also known as Lady Antlers, Wandering Velvet, and Startled Deer.
[Appearance]
Their antlers appear as tree branches, blooming flowers in spring. They have a short tail, and a soft and fluffy coat.
[Behavior]
Downy antlers have a symbiotic relationship with a certain species of flowers, with said flowers growing out of their antlers and particularly dense clusters at the intersection of several branches. When chased by predators or otherwise startled, these clusters will burst apart, with flower petals scattering everywhere to confuse nearby enemies.
[Legend]
The Xianzhou people of the past sought flower petals for pouches carried closely on their persons. In the old days, scholars would set up spring banquets on skiffs, seeking downy antlers and chasing them in delves. The people would compose poetry and play music as they watch petals raining down.
[Flavor]
Venison: Sweet, warming, and non-toxic.
Antlers: Sweet, warming, and non-toxic.
Flowers: Bitter, cooling, and slightly toxic.
[Effects]
Venison: Good for the spleen, warms the kidneys and stomach.
Antlers: Warms both liver and lungs, nourishes weak constitutions, and replenishes blood.
Flowers: Clears excessive internal heat and moisture by inducing sweating.
[Recommended Recipes]
Golden Velvet Rice: Pluck blooming flower clusters from young downy antlers in early spring, selecting blooms with the most richly colored petals. Blanch in diviner grass soup with a pinch of salt. Add day-old purple rice, then steam together. Consuming this dish regularly can calm the mind and grant better eyesight, with the effects enhanced if cooked using waters from Scalegorge Waterscape.
Blooming Pistil Soup: Cut flower buds from the clusters using a knife, dip them in wax and soak them in a pot of honey. Immerse the pot in the thermal springs of Scalegorge Waterscape in summer and watch the flowers bloom. Enjoy the wondrous aroma and sight!
Note:
Despite being an endangered species, its population remains stable under the tenure of the Realm-Keeping Commission.