Spice (element)
Spice (scientific notation: Ig⧺) is an element that is the ascended form of Fire. As such, species that are based on Spice are often more powerful and advanced versions of Fire-based species. Some examples of Spice-based species include Furons, Ignians, and Pyrosaurs. For those who are able to handle and harness the power of Spice, it is a highly sought-after and valuable element that has shaped the history and development of Dwaia in many ways.
Uses
Spice has many uses in Dwaian societies. This section lists some of the most significant ones.
Fuel
One of the most important uses of Spice is in Spice-based fuels, often sold in bottles or barrels. These fuels can be used with mechanisms that have been designed to split the Ascension aspect from the Spice, causing its base Fire element to shoot off at high speeds, as Fire has a much lower density than Spice. The Fire can then provide thrust to move a vehicle or force to power a machine. Spice fuels may also be highly diluted (using e.g. Zyklon 🅱), to make them more suitable for heating homes or cooking food. Food is often cooked directly above a Spice fuel flame, which imparts a unique spicy flavor. Not only does this make the food extra tasty, but it also prevents the food from spoiling because it kills all microorganisms on the food. Not everyone appreciates the bold flavor Spice fuels impart, see also: wimps.
Drugs
Spice can also be harnessed to enhance physical abilities, making it a valuable asset in battles and sports. People have tried to ban it as it is unfair to people who can't afford Spice, but Spice also makes you really good at lobbying, and so Spice supporters have always won such debates. As a performance enhancer Spice is usually taken as a suppository, or injected directly into the pineal gland. The latter is an ancient practice, and archeologists have found Spice needles near gladiator arenas dating back to the first Chungo AP. Ancestral Spice needles have been handed down in many families for many Woaks.
Some species, such as the Furons, have developed the ability to generate their own internal Spice, which they use to boost their physical prowess and enhance their strength and speed. Sometimes adventurers try to milk a Furon for their precious Spilk, but this usually goes badly due to the Furon's ridiculously high power level. Instead, Spice may be farmed relatively easily by vacuuming up Furon dandruff, which they leave dusted all over the place, and which is 99% pure Spice. Just don't get any of it on your skin, because it is incredibly itchy. Another source of Spice is Pyrosaur fossils, which can be found e.g. at the Pyrosaur Communal Cemetery in Violencia.
Legality
It should be noted that while Spice is highly useful and powerful, it is also incredibly dangerous. If not controlled properly, it can cause devastating wildfires and cause serious harm to those who use it excessively or incorrectly. This is why it is never sold to individuals under the age of 1.