Advanced Herbology

In the first edition the usefulness of some herbs was discussed. In this edition readers will be warned of another risk involved in herbology and have some sight granted to a few more herbs that were otherwise left out. Once again herbology can, and for most of you will be, a fun and exciting hobby that will stick with you through the best and worst in life.

Aside from addiction there are some plants that, once smoked, will bestow a rather negative affect. Such plants are rare and easy to recognize but can be harmful or even fatal if taken under the right circumstances. There are two specific ones that will be mentioned. These two are the most easily accessable ones that you are likely to find.

Spotted mushrooms- These are quite abundant in Elium Forest and despite their tasty appearance, should be avoided unless you are dying from your addiction. Even then they will only help for two hours. This is at the cost of a plague of insomnia.

Stoneberry leaves- A rather localized berry that only grows in the ford. The berries are sweet and juicy however smoking the leaves can be bad news. Most of the time you will likely resist the poison however, this is a risk and if caught unprepared or weakened this may prove fatal. If affected you should attempt to vomit out the poison immediately.

The next chapter deals with a few more beneficial herbs. Each of these is well worth trying and collecting for use.

Gyvel leaves- Possibly the most desired leaf aside from the black leaves, and most commonly used for making potions. However if administered through the lungs this potent leaf can make magically make your armor more efficient. The Elderwood is home to this valuable little herb. The small black leaves are a dead give away that you have found the right plant.

Neon green leaves- Such a beautiful and bright colored leaf, these leaves can pack a punch in a pinch. Akin to the Magenta leaves, these are a less potent, less accessible alterative. Some people prefer these when they do not wish to suffer such a dramatic disregard for defense. Be forewarned these little leaves are found in the dangerous Tainted valley. Attempting to harvest these at a young age could and most likely will prove fatal.

The black bowl of herbs- The personal favorite of the druid Torlier, this concoction of herbs is derived mostly from the essence of the black leaves. The herbs them selves are already prepared and available in a small bowl. Though these are not naturally grown they offer a more localized alternative to the black leaves, that is if you can get the druid to take his eyes off them.

The book will conclude with a small lesson of preserving and keeping your stashes for later use. As those of you who have read the previous edition may have noticed, the leaves are prone to wilting at the most inopportune times. You can seek out any ninja or thief as they can preserve any leaf, root or plant. Most will charge a fee for such preservations however it is a personal recommendation that you not pay more than 500 gold coins per herb to be preserved. Please note that this is a personal choice and not by any stretch a rule. If you want to pay more by all means do so.