Alchemy

## Alchemy is the science of releasing the magic naturally pooling in objects, entities, and places using precise formulae.

Origin

Alchemy has existed since the Vahlan discovered it by pure accident while experimenting with mind-altering herbs they found growing on their planet. They discovered that combining different herbs at times and inhaling through vessels made of specific woods produced very different experiences and sometimes led to unusually strong sensory experiences or sometimes even mild changes to their bodies or mental faculties. Before Mage's abortive attempt at spellcasting, this was the only form of magical practice on Vahlanost and they did not actually understand it as such. To them it was no different than cooking or traditional chemistry.It has since been discovered on many worlds and at different times, with knowledge being expanded, lost, and found again on the planets as the ages pass.

Effects

Alchemy is capable of the same range of effects as traditional magic, though with some key differences. If used to create planar doorway or other opening, these phenomena are not under the control of the Alchemist or anyone else using a prepared mixture. The nature of the formula determines duration, size, and other factors. Alchemy is exceptionally good at transmuting matter and consciousness to achieve new states, and the effects cannot be dispelled using standard counter spells because until the effects expire they are essentially a natural part of the affected party. This can lead to severe problems if such the results are flawed, especially should they become permanent. Alchemy can bend space and time, but the effects tend to be more limited in scale compared to what spells can accomplish unless the alchemist exploits location specific phenomena or uses a short-lived effect spread by thin particulates such as mist or dust.

Mishaps

Alchemical mishaps are every bit as dangerous as standard magical ones. They are actually more so in some cases because they have a tendency to be both permanent and virtually impossible to reverse using alchemy or other methods.

Differences from Chemistry

In societies which have a concept of chemistry, alchemy is sometimes confused for a subdivision of that science. They resemble each other in many ways and share some techniques, but whereas chemistry is applied physics, alchemy is applied mysticism. Confusing the two can be extremely dangerous

Use in Ritual and Potion Brewing

While alchemical compounds and minor alchemical reactions can be used to aid in the practice of some forms of ritual magic, even allowing the less gifted to attempt it, most rituals can proceed without it or its results. Also, many people confuse magical potions and alchemical preparations (sometimes called elixirs or philters to differentiate between the two, but all the terms are used inconsistently). They are not, technically the same. A potion contains spell or act less defined act of magic designed by a magic user and suspended in a liquid base (or a gel base for greases and oils). The bases can vary by the user, as all that is necessary the magician's will and ability to believe the spell will remain in the fluid, but common recipes can develop over time. The classic example is the healing potion type most commonly brewed across Annarion - a base of holy water, burned cinnamon, and blue pigments used to suspend a clerical healing spell until later consumption. Potions made in the traditional manner tend to degrade rapidly, however, losing their designed effects and becoming unpredictable in days or weeks. Alchemical compounds can be used in addition to the normal base to hold the spell in place, which expands it's shelf life, without altering the effects of the spell. Other combinations/uses are possible.