Alkhahest

To the common man, alkhahest is a miracle. In the correct ratio, given time, it can dissolve any material into a miscible liquid form. It is the liquid gold that allows those without magic to draw forth miraculous properties from the elements.

— Credimus Falsaar, Lectures on Metaphysics

Alkhahest is a universal solvent often relied upon by alkhamysts. Its components and transmutation process are a secret kept under Alkhafi law, known to only five living alkhamysts at any given time. This quintet is decided by a general vote among members of the Guild of Alkhamysts, and the post is held by incumbent alkhamysts until their death. It sold in a pair of containers, the contents of which must be mixed together to activate the solvent's effects.


The Guild of Alkhamysts is permitted to sell alkhahest through licensed agents. Licensed agents are expected to be scrupulous and sell alkhahest only to guild alkhamysts. Licenses expire one year after they are issued by the Guild. Any merchant found to be selling alkhahest without a current license will be punished with removal of three fingers.


Alkhahest is considered a symbol of Alkhafi ingenuity. This is a view held predominantly by the Alkhafi who pride themselves on it, though those rare alkhamysts of other nationalities begrudgingly admit its use. Those who call into question the lofty regard given to the substance point to Karthani and Cetoilais potions made with a simple bit of magic that replicates the effect of the solvent.

Price

Between 1 and 5 silver per oz of fluids.

Related

Alramal Alkhafiya | Karthain

Black Market Alkhahest

Alkhahest-like solvents can be found in the secret markets of the world. Rarely are these solvents alkhahest proper. Many work well enough, but may have problematic side-effects. The Guild of Alkhamysts publicly condemns those that sell these dangerous, unpredictable alternatives.