Tobacco

Ubiquitous consumable throughout the Western Zones

Got any tobacco?

— Gooze Proudflesh's first words after being rescued from the Iron Wheel

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The language, mores ,and customs of the Forbidden Zone differ from those of the Merikan Zones; however, in one respect there is no contrast. Whether it is smoked, chewed, or burned as fragrant incense, everywhere you go you may find people of all social classes consuming tobacco in one form or another. For some it is a simple vice to be sated. For others it is a sacred plant essential for ritual practice.

Manufacturing process

Most tobacco is prepared and traded in rope-like corded rolls known as twists. After harvest, the leaves are first cured to release excess moisture and then they are wound together. Afterwards steam is applied to the twisted leaves. This process releases chemical content from the leaves and causes the leaf fibers to expand and tighten into a permanent twist shape.

Significance

Most users consume tobacco as a stimulant. It is used to assuage feelings of hunger and stimulate pleasure centers of the brain. Use of the substance is a commonplace of many social interactions and the way it is spread and shared within a kin group or associated group indicates familiarity and fellowship. Prolonged and indulgent use of tobacco nearly always leads to addictive behaviour and users should be carefully monitored for unusual behavior.

The Pimacan priests use tobacco in their sacred rites. It is burned in suspended thuribles in order to waft the scent throughout the temples during prayer. It is the third most commonly used incense in these temples and usually (after sage and sandalwood).

Item type

Consumable, Food / Drink

Rarity

Common consumable staple

Weight

2 ounces per twist

Dimensions

6.5 inches long

Base Price

2 bronze kestrels