Alchemy

Alchemy is one of the major Praxes of magic in Olemonde. By utilizing rituals and the combinations of ingredients, such as specific plants or their parts or the remains of animals, supernatural effects can be created. The most famous example of high-level Alchemy is the creation of the Elixir of Life at the hands of Goblin Alchemists. Thought to be the work of the snake-folk, it is the Dragonkin who appear to benefit most readily. It is common knowledge that Sinsimaak the Immortal Emperor was among the first to partake of this distinctly rare and highly coveted brew. As part of the governance of the Empire of Lacerto, the [Immortal Council] is also known to have gained everlasting life through the same means.

Alchemy is often used in lieu of medicinal arts, creating salves, cures, and ointments, but can also be weaponized. Explosives, called Grenadi, can produce ample elemental spread effects in combat, such as a sheet of ice to slow down approaching enemies, a temporary magnetic field to disarm foes, or even carpeting the ground in a sticky, roaring flame. Armies will often make use of augmentations through Alchemy, improving their aim, bolstering their own endurance, or creating a burst of energy, allowing a soldier to fight harder and for longer. In recent years, elemental aura effects have seen more common use among the Embryan Kingdom, creating shield walls while the shieldbearers are wreathed in flame or arcing electricity.

One Alchemical effect that still eludes even the greatest Alchemists is a tincture to transform one material into another, namely iron into gold. Most Alchemists will tell you that it's impossible, as longstanding Ruh Magic prevents permanent transmutations in the Alchemical practice.

A less common but still well-known form of Alchemy is to temporarily transform one entity into the form of another. This is sometimes used by thieves or agents to disguise themselves or literally become flies on the walls, allowing more complicated forms of espionage and sabotage.

In some cases, Alchemy can be used to temporarily restore life to the dead, allowing loved ones to say their final goodbyes without the struggle of a body in the process of shutting down. This is sometimes used as an interrogation technique, as well.