Decoctions of Hoarfrost - Revision history

Twiggy at 00:47, 2 August 2025

2025-08-02T00:47:12Z

Hailmur at 20:29, 12 May 2023

2023-05-12T20:29:38Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:29, 12 May 2023
Line 38:		Line 38:
	* '''Mechanical Effects:''' If you possess the [[Magical skills#Ritual lores\|Winter lore]] skill then you gain three additional ranks to the next Winter ritual that you perform within ten minutes, subject to the [[Realm_Lore#Gaining_additional_ranks\|normal rules for effective skill]]. This is a [[Potion#Tonics\|tonic]]; the effect of any other tonic you have drunk immediately ends.		* '''Mechanical Effects:''' If you possess the [[Magical skills#Ritual lores\|Winter lore]] skill then you gain three additional ranks to the next Winter ritual that you perform within ten minutes, subject to the [[Realm_Lore#Gaining_additional_ranks\|normal rules for effective skill]]. This is a [[Potion#Tonics\|tonic]]; the effect of any other tonic you have drunk immediately ends.
	* '''Recipe:''' Three drams each of [[Bladeroot]] and [[True Vervain]], one dram of [[Marrowort]], one [[Game items#Crystal Mana\|crystallised mana]], and one ring of [[ilium]].		* '''Recipe:''' Three drams each of [[Bladeroot]] and [[True Vervain]], one dram of [[Marrowort]], one [[Game items#Crystal Mana\|crystallised mana]], and one ring of [[ilium]].
			{{PotionTable\|Decoctions of Hoarfrost}}
	[[Category:Potions]]		[[Category:Potions]]
	[[Category:Tonics]]		[[Category:Tonics]]

Hailmur at 17:32, 6 May 2023

2023-05-06T17:32:28Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:32, 6 May 2023
Line 13:		Line 13:
	* '''Roleplaying Effects:''' This potion tastes unpleasantly of spoiled meat. You become emotionally cold but highly possessive and protective of your friends and allies.		* '''Roleplaying Effects:''' This potion tastes unpleasantly of spoiled meat. You become emotionally cold but highly possessive and protective of your friends and allies.
	* '''Mechanical Effects:''' If you possess the [[Magical skills#Ritual lores\|Winter lore]] skill then you gain one additional effective rank to the next Winter ritual that you perform within ten minutes, subject to the [[Realm_Lore#Gaining_additional_ranks\|normal rules for effective skill]]. This is a [[Potion#Tonics\|tonic]]; the effect of any other tonic you have drunk immediately ends.		* '''Mechanical Effects:''' If you possess the [[Magical skills#Ritual lores\|Winter lore]] skill then you gain one additional effective rank to the next Winter ritual that you perform within ten minutes, subject to the [[Realm_Lore#Gaining_additional_ranks\|normal rules for effective skill]]. This is a [[Potion#Tonics\|tonic]]; the effect of any other tonic you have drunk immediately ends.
	* '''Recipe:''' Two drams each of [[Bladeroot]] and [[True Vervain]], one dram of [[Marrowort]] and one [[~~Game items~~#~~Crystal Mana~~\|crystallised mana]].		* '''Recipe:''' Two drams each of [[Bladeroot]] and [[True Vervain]], one dram of [[Marrowort]] and one [[Game_items#Mana_Crystals\|crystallised mana]].

	==The Barren Watchtower==		==The Barren Watchtower==

Dre at 18:56, 11 May 2022

2022-05-11T18:56:51Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:56, 11 May 2022
Line 41:		Line 41:
	[[Category:Potions]]		[[Category:Potions]]
	[[Category:Tonics]]		[[Category:Tonics]]
	~~[[Category:Recipes]]~~

Dre at 13:22, 9 May 2022

2022-05-09T13:22:56Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:22, 9 May 2022
Line 41:		Line 41:
	[[Category:Potions]]		[[Category:Potions]]
	[[Category:Tonics]]		[[Category:Tonics]]
			[[Category:Recipes]]

Rafferty at 15:41, 13 January 2022

2022-01-13T15:41:13Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:41, 13 January 2022
Line 31:		Line 31:
	As with the Decoction of Hoarfrost, the salve focuses a magician towards dark emotional states as it enhances the resonance between a mortal and the Winter realm. Unlike the weaker preparation, however, it is very easy for an inexperienced user to become so lost in feelings of sorrow and despair that they are unable to rouse themselves to contribute to the very magic they seek to enhance with this preparation. A novice user must be carefully watched to ensure they remain focused on the matter at hand rather than lost in grim remembrance of every past failure.		As with the Decoction of Hoarfrost, the salve focuses a magician towards dark emotional states as it enhances the resonance between a mortal and the Winter realm. Unlike the weaker preparation, however, it is very easy for an inexperienced user to become so lost in feelings of sorrow and despair that they are unable to rouse themselves to contribute to the very magic they seek to enhance with this preparation. A novice user must be carefully watched to ensure they remain focused on the matter at hand rather than lost in grim remembrance of every past failure.

	Interestingly, there are some references to a potion very similar to this having been in use in pre- and early-Imperial Marches and Wintermark. Allegedly, that vile preparation was made by agents of [[~~Wendigo~~]] using the fat from murdered human bodies; the [[Druj]] appear to favour human and orc fat as a base as well. Civilised magicians obviously prefer to use fat gathered from animals slaughtered for their meat - even the most pragmatic apothecary is likely to balk at the idea of killing a person purely to provide materials for a potion.		Interestingly, there are some references to a potion very similar to this having been in use in pre- and early-Imperial Marches and Wintermark. Allegedly, that vile preparation was made by agents of [[Agramant]] using the fat from murdered human bodies; the [[Druj]] appear to favour human and orc fat as a base as well. Civilised magicians obviously prefer to use fat gathered from animals slaughtered for their meat - even the most pragmatic apothecary is likely to balk at the idea of killing a person purely to provide materials for a potion.

	* '''Form:''' Salve.		* '''Form:''' Salve.

Harry at 10:54, 16 September 2021

2021-09-16T10:54:01Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:54, 16 September 2021
Line 40:		Line 40:

	[[Category:Potions]]		[[Category:Potions]]
			[[Category:Tonics]]

Rafferty at 16:24, 19 February 2020

2020-02-19T16:24:50Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:24, 19 February 2020
Line 38:		Line 38:
	* '''Mechanical Effects:''' If you possess the [[Magical skills#Ritual lores\|Winter lore]] skill then you gain three additional ranks to the next Winter ritual that you perform within ten minutes, subject to the [[Realm_Lore#Gaining_additional_ranks\|normal rules for effective skill]]. This is a [[Potion#Tonics\|tonic]]; the effect of any other tonic you have drunk immediately ends.		* '''Mechanical Effects:''' If you possess the [[Magical skills#Ritual lores\|Winter lore]] skill then you gain three additional ranks to the next Winter ritual that you perform within ten minutes, subject to the [[Realm_Lore#Gaining_additional_ranks\|normal rules for effective skill]]. This is a [[Potion#Tonics\|tonic]]; the effect of any other tonic you have drunk immediately ends.
	* '''Recipe:''' Three drams each of [[Bladeroot]] and [[True Vervain]], one dram of [[Marrowort]], one [[Game items#Crystal Mana\|crystallised mana]], and one ring of [[ilium]].		* '''Recipe:''' Three drams each of [[Bladeroot]] and [[True Vervain]], one dram of [[Marrowort]], one [[Game items#Crystal Mana\|crystallised mana]], and one ring of [[ilium]].


	[[Category:Potions]]		[[Category:Potions]]
	~~[[Category:Magic]]~~

Novemberalice at 20:00, 24 May 2019

2019-05-24T20:00:00Z

Novemberalice at 19:58, 24 May 2019

2019-05-24T19:58:22Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 00:47, 2 August 2025
Line 1:		Line 1:
	{{CaptionedImage\|file=Sinister.jpg\|title=Magicians who work the cruel magic of Winter find these elixirs a valuable adjunct to their work.\|caption=Oily, unpleasant, and bitter.\|align=right\|width=600}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=Sinister.jpg\|title=Magicians who work the cruel magic of Winter find these elixirs a valuable adjunct to their work.\|caption=Oily, unpleasant, and bitter.\|align=right\|width=600}}
	Mastery of these recipes allows an apothecary to brew preparations valuable to ritual magicians versed in the [[~~Magical skills~~#~~Ritual Magic~~\|lore of Winter]]. With one of these potions a ritualist can wield the magic of the [[Winter Realm\|Winter realm]] more effectively, but they also become more susceptible to the ambiguous influences of that realm.		Mastery of these recipes allows an apothecary to brew preparations valuable to ritual magicians versed in the [[Magical_skills#Realm_Lore\|lore of Winter]]. With one of these potions a ritualist can wield the magic of the [[Winter Realm\|Winter realm]] more effectively, but they also become more susceptible to the ambiguous influences of that realm.

	Imperial apothecaries who mastered the Decoctions of Hoarfrost were able to create the [[#Decoction of the Hungry Moon\|Hungry Moon]] and [[#The Barren Watchtower\|Barren Watchtower]]. There were always rumours about other potions with similar effects, but they were largely dismissed as simple recipe variants of these two. Following the liberation of the [[Highguard\|Highborn]] territory of [[Reikos]] in 379YE however, the situation changed slightly. Recipes belonging to the [[Druj]] apothecaries known as the Buruk Tepel were captured which detailed a third, expensive and difficult to brew potion referred to as [[#Sorrow's Mask\|Sorrow's Mask]]. The potion clearly built on principles familiar to apothecaries who had mastered the Decoctions, and knowledge of how to create the elixir quickly spread after the reconquest of High Chalcis. Some scholars who have studied some of the original notes point out that it appears the original Druj recipe was considerably more difficult to make - but that they were able to refine their own processes using information extracted from Imperial apothecaries captured in Reikos.		Imperial apothecaries who mastered the Decoctions of Hoarfrost were able to create the [[#Decoction of the Hungry Moon\|Hungry Moon]] and [[#The Barren Watchtower\|Barren Watchtower]]. There were always rumours about other potions with similar effects, but they were largely dismissed as simple recipe variants of these two. Following the liberation of the [[Highguard\|Highborn]] territory of [[Reikos]] in 379YE however, the situation changed slightly. Recipes belonging to the [[Druj]] apothecaries known as the Buruk Tepel were captured which detailed a third, expensive and difficult to brew potion referred to as [[#Sorrow's Mask\|Sorrow's Mask]]. The potion clearly built on principles familiar to apothecaries who had mastered the Decoctions, and knowledge of how to create the elixir quickly spread after the reconquest of High Chalcis. Some scholars who have studied some of the original notes point out that it appears the original Druj recipe was considerably more difficult to make - but that they were able to refine their own processes using information extracted from Imperial apothecaries captured in Reikos.
Line 12:		Line 12:
	* '''Description:''' This black, oily elixir has a thick sediment at the bottom that seems to drink in any light that hits it. It tastes vile, like rotting meat. It would require quite an effort of will for most people to drink this liquid.		* '''Description:''' This black, oily elixir has a thick sediment at the bottom that seems to drink in any light that hits it. It tastes vile, like rotting meat. It would require quite an effort of will for most people to drink this liquid.
	* '''Roleplaying Effects:''' This potion tastes unpleasantly of spoiled meat. You become emotionally cold but highly possessive and protective of your friends and allies.		* '''Roleplaying Effects:''' This potion tastes unpleasantly of spoiled meat. You become emotionally cold but highly possessive and protective of your friends and allies.
	* '''Mechanical Effects:''' If you possess the [[~~Magical skills~~#~~Ritual lores~~\|Winter lore]] skill then you gain one additional effective rank to the next Winter ritual that you perform within ten minutes, subject to the [[Realm_Lore#Gaining_additional_ranks\|normal rules for effective skill]]. This is a [[Potion#Tonics\|tonic]]; the effect of any other tonic you have drunk immediately ends.		* '''Mechanical Effects:''' If you possess the [[Magical_skills#Realm_Lore\|Winter lore]] skill then you gain one additional effective rank to the next Winter ritual that you perform within ten minutes, subject to the [[Realm_Lore#Gaining_additional_ranks\|normal rules for effective skill]]. This is a [[Potion#Tonics\|tonic]]; the effect of any other tonic you have drunk immediately ends.
	* '''Recipe:''' Two drams each of [[Bladeroot]] and [[True Vervain]], one dram of [[Marrowort]] and one [[Game_items#Mana_Crystals\|crystallised mana]].		* '''Recipe:''' Two drams each of [[Bladeroot]] and [[True Vervain]], one dram of [[Marrowort]] and one [[Game_items#Mana_Crystals\|crystallised mana]].

Line 23:		Line 23:
	* '''Description:''' This black, oily elixir seems to drink in any light that hits it. The thick sediment at the bottom hangs in the liquid for several minutes after it is shaken up. The salty, bitter taste gives you an urge to rinse your mouth out.		* '''Description:''' This black, oily elixir seems to drink in any light that hits it. The thick sediment at the bottom hangs in the liquid for several minutes after it is shaken up. The salty, bitter taste gives you an urge to rinse your mouth out.
	* '''Roleplaying Effects:''' Drinking this elixir makes you very thirsty and dry mouthed. You become cold and calculating, seeing everything in terms of cost and benefit. Individual lives or needs become meaningless in the face of your goals and what you consider to be best. You feel a powerful urge to ensure you and yours are safe, regardless of the cost to other people.		* '''Roleplaying Effects:''' Drinking this elixir makes you very thirsty and dry mouthed. You become cold and calculating, seeing everything in terms of cost and benefit. Individual lives or needs become meaningless in the face of your goals and what you consider to be best. You feel a powerful urge to ensure you and yours are safe, regardless of the cost to other people.
	* '''Mechanical Effects:''' If you possess the [[~~Magical skills~~#~~Ritual Lores~~\|Winter lore]] skill then you can use up to 3 [[Magical skills#Magician\|personal mana]] as if it were [[Game items#Mana Crystals\|crystal mana]] on the next Winter ritual that you perform within ten minutes.		* '''Mechanical Effects:''' If you possess the [[Magical_skills#Realm_Lore\|Winter lore]] skill then you can use up to 3 [[Magical skills#Magician\|personal mana]] as if it were [[Game items#Mana Crystals\|crystal mana]] on the next Winter ritual that you perform within ten minutes.
	* '''Recipe:''' Three drams of [[Bladeroot]], two drams of [[Marrowort]] and one dram each of [[Imperial Roseweald]], [[Cerulean Mazzarine]] and [[True Vervain]].		* '''Recipe:''' Three drams of [[Bladeroot]], two drams of [[Marrowort]] and one dram each of [[Imperial Roseweald]], [[Cerulean Mazzarine]] and [[True Vervain]].

Line 36:		Line 36:
	* '''Description:''' This lumpy white salve exudes an indefinable scent that brings to mind sad memories of past loss. It tastes unspeakably horrible, and takes an effort of will to consume any.		* '''Description:''' This lumpy white salve exudes an indefinable scent that brings to mind sad memories of past loss. It tastes unspeakably horrible, and takes an effort of will to consume any.
	* '''Roleplaying Effects:''' Where this balm has been applied, your skin becomes numb. You are constantly reminded of your regrets; it is easy for you to succumb to feelings of grief, loss, despair, and sorrow if you do not keep focused on the task at hand.		* '''Roleplaying Effects:''' Where this balm has been applied, your skin becomes numb. You are constantly reminded of your regrets; it is easy for you to succumb to feelings of grief, loss, despair, and sorrow if you do not keep focused on the task at hand.
	* '''Mechanical Effects:''' If you possess the [[~~Magical skills~~#~~Ritual lores~~\|Winter lore]] skill then you gain three additional ranks to the next Winter ritual that you perform within ten minutes, subject to the [[Realm_Lore#Gaining_additional_ranks\|normal rules for effective skill]]. This is a [[Potion#Tonics\|tonic]]; the effect of any other tonic you have drunk immediately ends.		* '''Mechanical Effects:''' If you possess the [[Magical_skills#Realm_Lore\|Winter lore]] skill then you gain three additional ranks to the next Winter ritual that you perform within ten minutes, subject to the [[Realm_Lore#Gaining_additional_ranks\|normal rules for effective skill]]. This is a [[Potion#Tonics\|tonic]]; the effect of any other tonic you have drunk immediately ends.
	* '''Recipe:''' Three drams each of [[Bladeroot]] and [[True Vervain]], one dram of [[Marrowort]], one [[Game items#Crystal Mana\|crystallised mana]], and one ring of [[ilium]].		* '''Recipe:''' Three drams each of [[Bladeroot]] and [[True Vervain]], one dram of [[Marrowort]], one [[Game items#Crystal Mana\|crystallised mana]], and one ring of [[ilium]].
	{{PotionTable\|Decoctions of Hoarfrost}}		{{PotionTable\|Decoctions of Hoarfrost}}
	[[Category:Potions]]		[[Category:Potions]]
	[[Category:Tonics]]		[[Category:Tonics]]

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:00, 24 May 2019
Line 1:		Line 1:
	{{CaptionedImage\|file=Sinister.jpg\|title=Magicians who work the cruel magic of Winter find these elixirs a valuable adjunct to their work.\|caption=Oily, unpleasant, and bitter.\|align=right\|width=600}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=Sinister.jpg\|title=Magicians who work the cruel magic of Winter find these elixirs a valuable adjunct to their work.\|caption=Oily, unpleasant, and bitter.\|align=right\|width=600}}
	Mastery of these recipes allows an apothecary to brew preparations valuable to ritual magicians versed in the [[Magical skills#Ritual Magic\|lore of Winter]]. With one of these potions a ritualist can wield the magic of the [[Winter realm]] more effectively, but they also become more susceptible to the ambiguous influences of that realm.		Mastery of these recipes allows an apothecary to brew preparations valuable to ritual magicians versed in the [[Magical skills#Ritual Magic\|lore of Winter]]. With one of these potions a ritualist can wield the magic of the [[Winter Realm\|Winter realm]] more effectively, but they also become more susceptible to the ambiguous influences of that realm.

	Imperial apothecaries who mastered the Decoctions of Hoarfrost were able to create the [[#Decoction of the Hungry Moon\|Hungry Moon]] and [[#The Barren Watchtower\|Barren Watchtower]]. There were always rumours about other potions with similar effects, but they were largely dismissed as simple recipe variants of these two. Following the liberation of the [[Highguard\|Highborn]] territory of [[Reikos]] in 379YE however, the situation changed slightly. Recipes belonging to the [[Druj]] apothecaries known as the Buruk Tepel were captured which detailed a third, expensive and difficult to brew potion referred to as [[#Sorrow's Mask\|Sorrow's Mask]]. The potion clearly built on principles familiar to apothecaries who had mastered the Decoctions, and knowledge of how to create the elixir quickly spread after the reconquest of High Chalcis. Some scholars who have studied some of the original notes point out that it appears the original Druj recipe was considerably more difficult to make - but that they were able to refine their own processes using information extracted from Imperial apothecaries captured in Reikos.		Imperial apothecaries who mastered the Decoctions of Hoarfrost were able to create the [[#Decoction of the Hungry Moon\|Hungry Moon]] and [[#The Barren Watchtower\|Barren Watchtower]]. There were always rumours about other potions with similar effects, but they were largely dismissed as simple recipe variants of these two. Following the liberation of the [[Highguard\|Highborn]] territory of [[Reikos]] in 379YE however, the situation changed slightly. Recipes belonging to the [[Druj]] apothecaries known as the Buruk Tepel were captured which detailed a third, expensive and difficult to brew potion referred to as [[#Sorrow's Mask\|Sorrow's Mask]]. The potion clearly built on principles familiar to apothecaries who had mastered the Decoctions, and knowledge of how to create the elixir quickly spread after the reconquest of High Chalcis. Some scholars who have studied some of the original notes point out that it appears the original Druj recipe was considerably more difficult to make - but that they were able to refine their own processes using information extracted from Imperial apothecaries captured in Reikos.
Line 12:		Line 12:
	* '''Description:''' This black, oily elixir has a thick sediment at the bottom that seems to drink in any light that hits it. It tastes vile, like rotting meat. It would require quite an effort of will for most people to drink this liquid.		* '''Description:''' This black, oily elixir has a thick sediment at the bottom that seems to drink in any light that hits it. It tastes vile, like rotting meat. It would require quite an effort of will for most people to drink this liquid.
	* '''Roleplaying Effects:''' This potion tastes unpleasantly of spoiled meat. You become emotionally cold but highly possessive and protective of your friends and allies.		* '''Roleplaying Effects:''' This potion tastes unpleasantly of spoiled meat. You become emotionally cold but highly possessive and protective of your friends and allies.
	* '''Mechanical Effects:''' If you possess the [[Magical skills#Ritual lores\|Winter lore]] skill then you gain one additional effective rank to the next Winter ritual that you perform within ten minutes, subject to the [[~~realm_lore~~#Gaining_additional_ranks\|normal rules for effective skill]]. This is a [[Potion#Tonics\|tonic]]; the effect of any other tonic you have drunk immediately ends.		* '''Mechanical Effects:''' If you possess the [[Magical skills#Ritual lores\|Winter lore]] skill then you gain one additional effective rank to the next Winter ritual that you perform within ten minutes, subject to the [[Realm_Lore#Gaining_additional_ranks\|normal rules for effective skill]]. This is a [[Potion#Tonics\|tonic]]; the effect of any other tonic you have drunk immediately ends.
	* '''Recipe:''' Two drams each of [[Bladeroot]] and [[True Vervain]], one dram of [[Marrowort]] and one [[Game items#Crystal Mana\|crystallised mana]].		* '''Recipe:''' Two drams each of [[Bladeroot]] and [[True Vervain]], one dram of [[Marrowort]] and one [[Game items#Crystal Mana\|crystallised mana]].

Line 23:		Line 23:
	* '''Description:''' This black, oily elixir seems to drink in any light that hits it. The thick sediment at the bottom hangs in the liquid for several minutes after it is shaken up. The salty, bitter taste gives you an urge to rinse your mouth out.		* '''Description:''' This black, oily elixir seems to drink in any light that hits it. The thick sediment at the bottom hangs in the liquid for several minutes after it is shaken up. The salty, bitter taste gives you an urge to rinse your mouth out.
	* '''Roleplaying Effects:''' Drinking this elixir makes you very thirsty and dry mouthed. You become cold and calculating, seeing everything in terms of cost and benefit. Individual lives or needs become meaningless in the face of your goals and what you consider to be best. You feel a powerful urge to ensure you and yours are safe, regardless of the cost to other people.		* '''Roleplaying Effects:''' Drinking this elixir makes you very thirsty and dry mouthed. You become cold and calculating, seeing everything in terms of cost and benefit. Individual lives or needs become meaningless in the face of your goals and what you consider to be best. You feel a powerful urge to ensure you and yours are safe, regardless of the cost to other people.
	* '''Mechanical Effects:''' If you possess the [[Magical skills#Ritual ~~lores~~\|Winter lore]] skill then you can use up to 3 [[Magical skills#Magician\|personal mana]] as if it were [[Game items#Mana Crystals\|crystal mana]] on the next Winter ritual that you perform within ten minutes.		* '''Mechanical Effects:''' If you possess the [[Magical skills#Ritual Lores\|Winter lore]] skill then you can use up to 3 [[Magical skills#Magician\|personal mana]] as if it were [[Game items#Mana Crystals\|crystal mana]] on the next Winter ritual that you perform within ten minutes.
	* '''Recipe:''' Three drams of [[Bladeroot]], two drams of [[Marrowort]] and one dram each of [[Imperial Roseweald]], [[Cerulean Mazzarine]] and [[True Vervain]].		* '''Recipe:''' Three drams of [[Bladeroot]], two drams of [[Marrowort]] and one dram each of [[Imperial Roseweald]], [[Cerulean Mazzarine]] and [[True Vervain]].

Line 36:		Line 36:
	* '''Description:''' This lumpy white salve exudes an indefinable scent that brings to mind sad memories of past loss. It tastes unspeakably horrible, and takes an effort of will to consume any.		* '''Description:''' This lumpy white salve exudes an indefinable scent that brings to mind sad memories of past loss. It tastes unspeakably horrible, and takes an effort of will to consume any.
	* '''Roleplaying Effects:''' Where this balm has been applied, your skin becomes numb. You are constantly reminded of your regrets; it is easy for you to succumb to feelings of grief, loss, despair, and sorrow if you do not keep focused on the task at hand.		* '''Roleplaying Effects:''' Where this balm has been applied, your skin becomes numb. You are constantly reminded of your regrets; it is easy for you to succumb to feelings of grief, loss, despair, and sorrow if you do not keep focused on the task at hand.
	* '''Mechanical Effects:''' If you possess the [[Magical skills#Ritual lores\|Winter lore]] skill then you gain three additional ranks to the next Winter ritual that you perform within ten minutes, subject to the [[~~realm_lore~~#Gaining_additional_ranks\|normal rules for effective skill]]. This is a [[Potion#Tonics\|tonic]]; the effect of any other tonic you have drunk immediately ends.		* '''Mechanical Effects:''' If you possess the [[Magical skills#Ritual lores\|Winter lore]] skill then you gain three additional ranks to the next Winter ritual that you perform within ten minutes, subject to the [[Realm_Lore#Gaining_additional_ranks\|normal rules for effective skill]]. This is a [[Potion#Tonics\|tonic]]; the effect of any other tonic you have drunk immediately ends.
	* '''Recipe:''' Three drams each of [[Bladeroot]] and [[True Vervain]], one dram of [[Marrowort]], one [[Game items#Crystal Mana\|crystallised mana]], and one ring of [[ilium]].		* '''Recipe:''' Three drams each of [[Bladeroot]] and [[True Vervain]], one dram of [[Marrowort]], one [[Game items#Crystal Mana\|crystallised mana]], and one ring of [[ilium]].

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:58, 24 May 2019
Line 1:		Line 1:
	{{CaptionedImage\|file=Sinister.jpg\|title=Magicians who work the cruel magic of Winter find these elixirs a valuable adjunct to their work.\|caption=Oily, unpleasant, and bitter.\|align=right\|width=600}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=Sinister.jpg\|title=Magicians who work the cruel magic of Winter find these elixirs a valuable adjunct to their work.\|caption=Oily, unpleasant, and bitter.\|align=right\|width=600}}
	Mastery of these recipes allows an apothecary to brew preparations valuable to ritual magicians versed in the [[Magical skills#Ritual Magic\|~~Lore~~ of Winter]]. With one of these potions a ritualist can wield the magic of the [[Winter ~~Realm~~]] more effectively, but they also become more susceptible to the ambiguous influences of that ~~Realm~~.		Mastery of these recipes allows an apothecary to brew preparations valuable to ritual magicians versed in the [[Magical skills#Ritual Magic\|lore of Winter]]. With one of these potions a ritualist can wield the magic of the [[Winter realm]] more effectively, but they also become more susceptible to the ambiguous influences of that realm.

	Imperial apothecaries who mastered the Decoctions of Hoarfrost were able to create the [[#Decoction of the Hungry Moon\|Hungry Moon]] and [[#The Barren Watchtower\|Barren Watchtower]]. There were always rumours about other potions with similar effects, but they were largely dismissed as simple recipe variants of these two. Following the liberation of the [[Highguard\|Highborn]] territory of [[Reikos]] in 379YE however, the situation changed slightly. Recipes belonging to the [[Druj]] apothecaries known as the Buruk Tepel were captured which detailed a third, expensive and difficult to brew potion referred to as [[#Sorrow's Mask\|Sorrow's Mask]]. The potion clearly built on principles familiar to apothecaries who had mastered the Decoctions, and knowledge of how to create the elixir quickly spread after the reconquest of High Chalcis. Some scholars who have studied some of the original notes point out that it appears the original Druj recipe was considerably more difficult to make - but that they were able to refine their own processes using information extracted from Imperial apothecaries captured in Reikos.		Imperial apothecaries who mastered the Decoctions of Hoarfrost were able to create the [[#Decoction of the Hungry Moon\|Hungry Moon]] and [[#The Barren Watchtower\|Barren Watchtower]]. There were always rumours about other potions with similar effects, but they were largely dismissed as simple recipe variants of these two. Following the liberation of the [[Highguard\|Highborn]] territory of [[Reikos]] in 379YE however, the situation changed slightly. Recipes belonging to the [[Druj]] apothecaries known as the Buruk Tepel were captured which detailed a third, expensive and difficult to brew potion referred to as [[#Sorrow's Mask\|Sorrow's Mask]]. The potion clearly built on principles familiar to apothecaries who had mastered the Decoctions, and knowledge of how to create the elixir quickly spread after the reconquest of High Chalcis. Some scholars who have studied some of the original notes point out that it appears the original Druj recipe was considerably more difficult to make - but that they were able to refine their own processes using information extracted from Imperial apothecaries captured in Reikos.

	==Decoction of the Hungry Moon==		==Decoction of the Hungry Moon==
	This black liquid has an unpleasantly oily texture, and often contains small amounts of ~~bladeroot~~ or ~~marrowort~~ matter as sediment that settles on the bottom of a flask. It must be shaken thoroughly before consuming. It tastes very unpleasant indeed, and while some apothecaries add sugar to the mixture the general consensus agrees that doing so can damage the potion's effectiveness. When consumed, it cools the blood and chills the heart; by focusing a magician towards the dark emotional states it enhances the synergy between a mortal and the Winter ~~Realm~~.		This black liquid has an unpleasantly oily texture, and often contains small amounts of Bladeroot or Marrowort matter as sediment that settles on the bottom of a flask. It must be shaken thoroughly before consuming. It tastes very unpleasant indeed, and while some apothecaries add sugar to the mixture, the general consensus agrees that doing so can damage the potion's effectiveness. When consumed, it cools the blood and chills the heart; by focusing a magician towards the dark emotional states it enhances the synergy between a mortal and the Winter realm.

	Some [[Dawn\|Dawnish]] [[Earl#Enchanters\|enchanters]] employ the decoction prior to having dealings with Winter [[eternal\|eternals]]; the emotional side-effects apparently help the enchanter achieve in a mindset conducive to negotiations with these dangerous creatures. With the same reasoning, some [[Varushka\|Varushkan]] [[Varushka magical traditions\|volhov]] have been known to ''embrace the moon'' before meeting with certain [[Varushkan Monster#Sovereigns\|sovereigns]]. It is an expensive way to focus the mind, but one that has seen some success. While being possessive of allies and friends might make the magician prone to conflict with the eternal (or the sovereign), and make it hard to reach a compromise, it can be very helpful in ensuring the creature respects the negotiator even after the negotiations fail.		Some [[Dawn\|Dawnish]] [[Earl#Enchanters\|enchanters]] employ the decoction prior to having dealings with Winter [[eternal\|eternals]]; the emotional side-effects apparently help the enchanter achieve in a mindset conducive to negotiations with these dangerous creatures. With the same reasoning, some [[Varushka\|Varushkan]] [[Varushka magical traditions\|volhov]] have been known to "embrace the moon" before meeting with certain [[Varushkan Monster#Sovereigns\|sovereigns]]. It is an expensive way to focus the mind, but one that has seen some success. While being possessive of allies and friends might make the magician prone to conflict with the eternal (or the sovereign), and make it hard to reach a compromise, it can be very helpful in ensuring the creature respects the negotiator even after the negotiations fail.

	* '''Form:''' Liquid.		* '''Form:''' Liquid.
	* '''Description:''' This black, oily elixir has a thick sediment at the bottom that seems to drink in any light that hits it. It tastes vile, like rotting meat. It would require quite an effort of will for most people to drink this liquid.		* '''Description:''' This black, oily elixir has a thick sediment at the bottom that seems to drink in any light that hits it. It tastes vile, like rotting meat. It would require quite an effort of will for most people to drink this liquid.
	* '''Roleplaying Effects:''' This potion tastes unpleasantly of spoiled meat. You become emotionally cold but highly possessive and protective of your friends and allies.		* '''Roleplaying Effects:''' This potion tastes unpleasantly of spoiled meat. You become emotionally cold but highly possessive and protective of your friends and allies.
	* '''Mechanical Effects:''' If you possess the [[Magical skills#Ritual ~~Lores~~\|Winter ~~Lore~~]] skill then you gain one additional effective rank to the next Winter ritual that you perform within ten minutes, subject to the [[~~Realm_Lore~~#Gaining_additional_ranks\|normal rules for effective skill]]. This is a [[Potion#Tonics\|tonic]]; the effect of any other tonic you have drunk immediately ends.		* '''Mechanical Effects:''' If you possess the [[Magical skills#Ritual lores\|Winter lore]] skill then you gain one additional effective rank to the next Winter ritual that you perform within ten minutes, subject to the [[realm_lore#Gaining_additional_ranks\|normal rules for effective skill]]. This is a [[Potion#Tonics\|tonic]]; the effect of any other tonic you have drunk immediately ends.
	* '''Recipe:''' Two drams each of [[Bladeroot]] and [[True Vervain]], one dram of [[Marrowort]] and one [[Game items#Crystal Mana\|crystallised mana]].		* '''Recipe:''' Two drams each of [[Bladeroot]] and [[True Vervain]], one dram of [[Marrowort]] and one [[Game items#Crystal Mana\|crystallised mana]].

	==The Barren Watchtower==		==The Barren Watchtower==
	This gritty black elixir contains tiny pale particles in suspension, and has a dehydrating effect on the drinker. It permits a ritual magician to exert great power in the ~~Realm~~ of Winter. It allows a ritualist to bind the powers of the ~~Realm~~ by force of will, dominating the magic and turning it to the magician's ends.		This gritty black elixir contains tiny pale particles in suspension, and has a dehydrating effect on the drinker. It permits a ritual magician to exert great power in the realm of Winter. It allows a ritualist to bind the powers of the realm by force of will, dominating the magic and turning it to the magician's ends.

	This potent elixir was perfected by the [[Highguard magical traditions\|magisters]] of the Circle of the Barren Watchtower, a necromantic cabal studying at the [[Necropolis]]. Following some early criticism of their use of the elixir, the noted theologian of the time Saul pointed out that while such a potion can create dangerous urges, it also allows mortals to demonstrate their ability to perform ritual magic using only their innate abilities - it frees them from reliance on crystallised mana. Further, he asserted that a magician who ''knows'' that the elixir is influencing their thoughts is in a much better position to resist that influence - and receives valuable experience dealing with other un-Virtuous urges.		This potent elixir was perfected by the [[Highguard magical traditions\|magisters]] of the Circle of the Barren Watchtower, a necromantic cabal studying at the [[Necropolis]]. Following some early criticism of their use of the elixir, the noted theologian of the time, Saul, pointed out that while such a potion can create dangerous urges, it also allows mortals to demonstrate their ability to perform ritual magic using only their innate abilities - it frees them from reliance on crystallised mana. Further, he asserted that a magician who "knows" that the elixir is influencing their thoughts is in a much better position to resist that influence - and receives valuable experience dealing with other un-Virtuous urges.

	* '''Form:''' Liquid.		* '''Form:''' Liquid.
	* '''Description:''' This black, oily elixir seems to drink in any light that hits it. The thick sediment at the bottom hangs in the liquid for several minutes after it is shaken up. The salty, bitter taste gives you an urge to rinse your mouth out.		* '''Description:''' This black, oily elixir seems to drink in any light that hits it. The thick sediment at the bottom hangs in the liquid for several minutes after it is shaken up. The salty, bitter taste gives you an urge to rinse your mouth out.
	* '''Roleplaying Effects:''' Drinking this elixir makes you very thirsty and dry mouthed. You become cold and calculating, seeing everything in terms of cost and benefit. Individual lives or needs become meaningless in the face of your goals and what you consider to be best. You feel a powerful urge to ensure you and yours are safe, regardless of the cost to other people.		* '''Roleplaying Effects:''' Drinking this elixir makes you very thirsty and dry mouthed. You become cold and calculating, seeing everything in terms of cost and benefit. Individual lives or needs become meaningless in the face of your goals and what you consider to be best. You feel a powerful urge to ensure you and yours are safe, regardless of the cost to other people.
	* '''Mechanical Effects:''' If you possess the [[Magical skills#Ritual ~~Lores~~\|Winter ~~Lore~~]] skill then you can use up to 3 [[Magical skills#Magician\|personal mana]] as if it were [[Game items#Mana Crystals\|crystal mana]] on the next Winter ritual that you perform within ten minutes.		* '''Mechanical Effects:''' If you possess the [[Magical skills#Ritual lores\|Winter lore]] skill then you can use up to 3 [[Magical skills#Magician\|personal mana]] as if it were [[Game items#Mana Crystals\|crystal mana]] on the next Winter ritual that you perform within ten minutes.
	* '''Recipe:''' Three drams of [[Bladeroot]], two drams of [[Marrowort]] and one dram each of [[Imperial Roseweald]], [[Cerulean Mazzarine]] and [[True Vervain]].		* '''Recipe:''' Three drams of [[Bladeroot]], two drams of [[Marrowort]] and one dram each of [[Imperial Roseweald]], [[Cerulean Mazzarine]] and [[True Vervain]].

Line 29:		Line 29:
	This thick, oily salve uses animal fat as a base, and has a gritty, unpleasant texture full of unsettling lumps. It must be smoothed into the skin until it is completely absorbed - and where it is used it brings a deep numbness. Consequently, users often prefer to spread it on their face or chest rather than their hands of arms as performing ritual magic with no feeling in the fingers can be a daunting prospect.		This thick, oily salve uses animal fat as a base, and has a gritty, unpleasant texture full of unsettling lumps. It must be smoothed into the skin until it is completely absorbed - and where it is used it brings a deep numbness. Consequently, users often prefer to spread it on their face or chest rather than their hands of arms as performing ritual magic with no feeling in the fingers can be a daunting prospect.

	As with the Decoction of Hoarfrost, the salve focuses a magician towards dark emotional states as it enhances the resonance between a mortal and the Winter ~~Realm~~. Unlike the weaker preparation, however, it is very easy for an inexperienced user to become so lost in feelings of sorrow and despair that they are unable to rouse themselves to contribute to the very magic they seek to enhance with this preparation. A novice user must be carefully watched to ensure they remain focused on the matter at hand rather than lost in grim remembrance of every past failure.		As with the Decoction of Hoarfrost, the salve focuses a magician towards dark emotional states as it enhances the resonance between a mortal and the Winter realm. Unlike the weaker preparation, however, it is very easy for an inexperienced user to become so lost in feelings of sorrow and despair that they are unable to rouse themselves to contribute to the very magic they seek to enhance with this preparation. A novice user must be carefully watched to ensure they remain focused on the matter at hand rather than lost in grim remembrance of every past failure.

	Interestingly, there are some references to a potion very similar to this having been in use in pre- and early-Imperial Marches and Wintermark. Allegedly, that vile preparation was made by agents of [[Wendigo]] using the fat from murdered human bodies; the [[Druj]] appear to favour human and orc fat as a base as well. ~~Civilized~~ magicians obviously prefer to use fat gathered from animals slaughtered for their meat - even the most pragmatic apothecary is likely to balk at the idea of killing a person purely to provide materials for a potion.		Interestingly, there are some references to a potion very similar to this having been in use in pre- and early-Imperial Marches and Wintermark. Allegedly, that vile preparation was made by agents of [[Wendigo]] using the fat from murdered human bodies; the [[Druj]] appear to favour human and orc fat as a base as well. Civilised magicians obviously prefer to use fat gathered from animals slaughtered for their meat - even the most pragmatic apothecary is likely to balk at the idea of killing a person purely to provide materials for a potion.

	* '''Form:''' Salve.		* '''Form:''' Salve.
	* '''Description:''' This lumpy white salve exudes an indefinable scent that brings to mind sad memories of past loss. It tastes unspeakably horrible, and takes an effort of will to consume any.		* '''Description:''' This lumpy white salve exudes an indefinable scent that brings to mind sad memories of past loss. It tastes unspeakably horrible, and takes an effort of will to consume any.
	* '''Roleplaying Effects:''' Where this balm has been applied, your skin becomes numb. You are constantly reminded of your regrets; it is easy for you to succumb to feelings of grief, loss, despair, and sorrow if you do not keep focused on the task at hand.		* '''Roleplaying Effects:''' Where this balm has been applied, your skin becomes numb. You are constantly reminded of your regrets; it is easy for you to succumb to feelings of grief, loss, despair, and sorrow if you do not keep focused on the task at hand.
	* '''Mechanical Effects:''' If you possess the [[Magical skills#Ritual ~~Lores~~\|Winter ~~Lore~~]] skill then you gain three additional ranks to the next Winter ritual that you perform within ten minutes, subject to the [[~~Realm_Lore~~#Gaining_additional_ranks\|normal rules for effective skill]]. This is a [[Potion#Tonics\|tonic]]; the effect of any other tonic you have drunk immediately ends.		* '''Mechanical Effects:''' If you possess the [[Magical skills#Ritual lores\|Winter lore]] skill then you gain three additional ranks to the next Winter ritual that you perform within ten minutes, subject to the [[realm_lore#Gaining_additional_ranks\|normal rules for effective skill]]. This is a [[Potion#Tonics\|tonic]]; the effect of any other tonic you have drunk immediately ends.
	* '''Recipe:''' Three drams each of [[Bladeroot]] and [[True Vervain]], one dram of [[Marrowort]], one [[Game items#Crystal Mana\|~~crystallized~~ mana]], and one ring of [[ilium]].		* '''Recipe:''' Three drams each of [[Bladeroot]] and [[True Vervain]], one dram of [[Marrowort]], one [[Game items#Crystal Mana\|crystallised mana]], and one ring of [[ilium]].


	[[Category:Potions]]		[[Category:Potions]]
	[[Category:Magic]]		[[Category:Magic]]