Saltdrink - Morwenna's Tears

Manufacturing process

The salt water must be taken from a significant depth. Special barrels are lowered, the water-tight seals snap shut as certain depths are reached, sealing the water inside. These are then drawn back up to the collecting vessel and dried in coastal salt pans.
The salt is mixed in with the juice of Tan-Mor and an emulsified fish liver (A trade secret). Silver, dissolved in quicksilver, is separated out and poured in small amounts into the concoction.
Fresh water is added and the mixture is boiled in a glass vessel made from beach-sand. These vessels are then placed on a special rail, allowing them to be cooled by the Gaoithe Sidhe

History

Legendary Origins

Saltdrink has its legendary origins with Morwenna, the Goddess of the Sea. The story goes that Morwenna fell in love with a Gargan shepherd and brewed a special drink that would allow him to visit her beneath the waves. As he brought the chalice to his lips, he heard the singing of Meduna, the Goddess of Mead. Morwenna's tears turned the ocean, once sweet, into the salty waters that they are today.
What remained in the chalice was the bitterest and saltiest of all, but retained the magical properties. The salt soaked up the remains of the potion, but can be distilled to make saltdrink.

Historical Record

Saltdrink was used during the Reign of Gradlon Mwar during the construction of Ker-Ys, allowing workers to construct the great seawalls to protect the city.
Following The Fall of Ys, the process was lost, but gradually was rediscovered by 736 SI, following the Odet Raids and by 900, it was commonly known and processed by alchemists.

Significance

When drunk, Saltdrink will allow the drinker to breath, speak and move freely underwater for a limited time. Those under its effects will feel few effects while in the Gwantenn, but additional precautions must be undertaken for the high-pressure environments deeper in the sea.
The duration of the effect depends on the strength of the potion, but typically will last between 1 Bell to a full day. Dosages can be repeated, but prolonged use increases the chances of salt poisoning.

Cultural Associations

Saltdrink is commonly created by the Jetin Kriores, who drink it mixed with Mead, although Bediz Alchemists have so far failed to repeat this while keeping the potent magical effects of the drink.
The Marie-Morgane and The Finfolk make ample use of Saltdrink, but do not make it themselves, instead bartering with or raiding Jetin or Selkie communities.

Creation Date

50

Raw materials & Components

Fresh Tan-Mor, harvested following an oceanic Wyldstorms

Dehydrated Salt Water, taken from a depth of the Gwantenn or greater.

The emulsified liver of a specific fish

Silver filings