Distilling (sage ability)

Distilling is an amateur-status sage ability in the studies of Alchemy and Brewing & Distilling, providing knowledge of assembling and operating a simple still, allowing for the extraction of concentrated liquids through evaporation and condensation. The skill enables the character to produce strong spirits from fermented materials, as well as to extract rudimentary alchemical essences from plants, minerals and animal substances.

This includes the ability to separate oils, purify liquids, and create basic tinctures, though the results lack refinement. The process is slow, requiring careful heat control and proper collection methods, but a character with this skill can produce functional distillates without reliance on a trained professional.

The character understands how to assemble a still from available materials, but the efficiency of their operation is low, with much of the liquid lost in the process. Extracted alchemical substances lack purity and potency, making them unreliable for complex mixtures or delicate applications. Without proper refinement, distilled essences may carry impurities that dull their effects or introduce unintended side effects. A character at this level has no knowledge of advanced fractioning, aging, or the correction of flaws in the process.

With regard to alcohol, the character can successfully produce strong spirits from grains, fruits, or other fermentable sources, though the result is coarse and unrefined. The distillation process removes water and increases alcohol content, but flavour, clarity, and consistency are not within the character’s control. The spirits produced are suitable for personal use or crude trade but are unlikely to match the quality of a trained distiller’s work. Without proper oversight, an amateur’s spirits may be harsh, volatile, or even hazardous if improper ingredients are used.