Mighty Nikkisaurus
11-20-2016, 09:03 AM
Narcissiia gracefully twists her wrist with a flourish sliding the closed silk fan into her hand swiftly.
Narcissiia says, "Welcome to today's lecture on plant based poisons, and a brief introduction to their uses in the Nalfein court."
Narcissiia folds her hands.
Narcissiia lectures, "First and foremost, it cannot be stressed enough that it is the dosage which makes the poison. After all, one can be poisoned by simply drinking too much water in too short a time."
Narcissiia chuckles.
Luthais gazes in amusement at Narcissiia.
Narcissiia says, "The second point I must stress is that the effectiveness of the use of poison is largely determined by not the poison selected, but the poisoner's own creativity and consideration of the strengths and weaknesses of their target."
Sorrah smiles and makes a quick note in her book
Narcissiia lightly asks, "Why go through the trouble of securing some obscure, distilled toxin when your victim is allergic to peanuts and you can simply use peanut oil or dust on a pillow or inside the rim of a goblet?"
Narcissiia raises an eyebrow.
Narcissiia says, "My final opening point is to bear in mind that not all or even most poisonings are done with the intent to be lethal. In Ta'Nalfein a person may be poisoned to keep them from attending a social event, to discredit them in the eyes of their peers, or even to cause chaos in a young family attempting to establish their bloodline."
Narcissiia smiles faintly.
Narcissiia amusedly says, "In other cultures, use of poisons may be seen as a something only a weak person or perhaps a craven would do. This is not the case in Ta'Nalfein, where poisons are viewed as just another aspect of court life. Poisoning is viewed and even respected as an art form, and within the court it is seen as far more shameful to be the hapless victim of poisoning rather than the aggressor."
Narcissiia waves her hand in a dismissive gesture.
Narcissiia says, "It should be noted though that it's considered to be a severe breach of Nalfein etiquette to administer poisons to visiting foreigners. A good rule of etiquette to keep us in good standing with our brothers and sisters from the other elven cities, I would say."
Narcissiia shifts her weight.
Luthais smiles quietly to himself.
Narcissiia says, "Most non-Nalfein who come to the city however, either to be fostered or as part of an ambassador's household, are immediately set up to receive training in recognizing and curing poisoning. It's both a matter of practicality and giving our guests peace of mind."
Narcissiia warns, "Outside of Ta'Nalfein, however, it will be up to the personal discretion of the individual as to what lengths they may use poison. Those of us born into the higher classes are typically instructed to be subtle, discreet, and very particular if and when we ever choose to. Those born into lower classes may be a bit more.. free-wheeling and liberal.. In their use for personal gain, given they have less to lose should their behavior be discovered."
(Narcissiia pauses a brief moment, flipping open the lid on her vasculum before continuing on.)
Narcissiia says, "The oldest plant poisons known to us are ones discovered by women, and intended for women. I'm speaking of abortificaents, specifically."
Narcissiia lightly says, "In Ta'Nalfein it is not common at all for women to willfully take these plants with any regularity, as our birth rates are naturally low without intervention. That has not stopped their use entirely, however. I mentioned earlier that poison can be used to leave a bloodline in upheaval."
Narcissiia explains, "The most popular is to use tinctures of tansy and pennyroyal, usually blended into a lady's morning tea. Repeated use could cause a Lord to set his spouse aside for someone more fertile, for instance. This usually will also ruin the woman's prospects for another marriage, as word will spread of her poor health and fertility and scare off potential suitors. It could also leave a household without an heir upon the death of the lord or lady, and thus causing all lands, titles, and wealth to pass into the hands of a cousin or other relative."
(Narcissiia extracts and holds up a yellow fluffy flower from her vasculum, her fingers holding it by the long green stem.)
Narcissiia says, "This is the tansy, a member of the aster family. When in bloom the flowers are a round and plush bright yellow. For its medicinal qualities to be extracted, the leaves and stems are used. They can be dried and used like a typical tea, or it can be distilled and used in an oil or tincture through slightly more complicated methods."
Ordim nods understandingly.
Narcissiia instructs, "Tansy has a bitter flavor to it, so it is not uncommon for newly pregnant nobility in Ta'Nalfein to select only plain, sweet, and delicate teas such as chamomile, so that they can detect any tansy at the first brush of their lips to their cup."
(Narcissiia returns the bloom to her vasculum and pulls a pale purple stalk of flowers from within, the stalk nearly the length of her forearm.)
Narcissiia says, "This is Pennyroyal. In bloom the flowers are a lovely light purple and form a delicate arching stalk, not unlike the larkspur. Like tansy either the leaves and stems can be used like tea leaves or it can be distilled into oil or a tincture. The taste and smell is sharp and pungent and very reminiscent of peppermint or spearmint."
Narcissiia smirks.
Narcissiia dryly says, "Needless to say, in Ta'Nalfein it is unlikely you would find any pregnant woman partaking in a cup of mint tea, lest they give their would-be poisoner the perfect opening."
Narcissiia adds, "Angelica and parsley are also known abortifacients, but they require a significantly higher dosage which makes them impractical for most poisoners."
Narcissiia calmly says, "Unfortunately for the unlucky woman who finds herself drinking a cup of tansy or pennyroyal, there are not many known antidotes. Drinking a preparation of steamed peat charcoal mixed with water can negate some effects but may not be enough to save the pregnancy."
Narcissiia says, "The other known plant cure if ingested shortly after the poison is the ochre fungus, which can be harvested in the dwarven city of Zul Logoth. It is not uncommon for some more wealthy women to eat one of the mushrooms at the end of every meal during their first trimester of pregnancy."
Narcissiia says, "Some women seem to have a natural immunity of sorts to these plants, though it's not well understood why. Should you ever come across a Nalfein with tansy, pennyroyal, or aster in their name you can be sure that they survived an attempted poisoning while in the womb."
Narcissiia smoothly says, "The next topic we will cover are plants that can induce a psychoactive effect. Obviously for some people these plants are used in a, ah, recreational manner, but they certainly have their uses when used against someone caught unaware."
(Narcissiia retrieves a dark red blossom from within her vasculum, the bloody hue of the flat petals interrupted with swirls of yellow coming from the center.)
Narcissiia explains, "This is the poppy. When in bloom they have flowers of rich, warm colors like purples, reds, and blues, with touches of white and yellow amongst the large, flat petals. The sap from the plants can be extracted and purified to make a tasteless liquid that will render a person numb and incredibly sleepy."
Narcissiia shifts her weight.
(Narcissiia deposits the poppy back into the vasculum and a tiny smirk quirks at the corner of her mouth.)
Narcissiia says, "In Ta'Nalfein this may be slipped into a person's afternoon tea or meal to cause them to fall asleep and miss an important social event later that night, or break an important engagement that causes them to lose social standing or cause conflict with an allying household or person."
Narcissiia serenely says, "The most common antidote is a generous amount of scotch broom tincture. This will cause the drinker to vomit for a short time but if the poisoning is caught in time, will negate the worst of the effects of the poppy."
(Sorrah smoothly scribes a few more notes, nodding thoughtfully as she does.)
(Luthais stretches his legs out in front of him, reclining somewhat in his seat.)
Inglorion shifts his weight.
(Narcissiia pulls out a pink flower with pronounced heart shaped leaves and a center of black seeds, and holds it up.)
Sorrah whispers, "Did she say a broom?"
Narcissiia continues, "Another interesting plant is the morning glory. The leaves are heart shaped and the petals, which open in the morning and give it its name, are usually pink, white, or purple. You will also notice the tiny black seeds... those seeds are what we are interested in."
You quietly whisper to Sorrah, "It's named that, yes."
Narcissiia says, "When crushed and ingested, the seeds have a compound that cause the eater to hallucinate vividly, while awake and alert. The victim is still able to speak and move about as if they are not drugged. Typically the seeds are crushed and mixed into an appropriate food to mask them. They have a slightly bitter taste, so usually porridge or something that is sweetened and with a complex texture is the culinary vehicle of choice."
Sorrah whispers, "Thank you, I did not wish to misname it in my notes."
Narcissiia adds, "It has not been unheard of in Ta'Nalfein for a courtier to be stricken with sudden madness while in an audience or public social event, causing a falling in prestige and standing once they have recovered. People in the midst of faction or household conflicts that require mediating by the King or His council are at an even higher risk of poisoning by the morning glory, to cast doubt about the validity of their claims or complaints, for instance."
Limorten removes a silver-worked black leather notebook from in his cloak.
Narcissiia softly says, "Licorice has properties that not only can help boost the mood in stubborn cases of lingering melancholy, but can also help negate the effects of morning glory seeds. Three spoonfuls of properly prepared licorice oil can dampen the hallucinations and help the victim retain better control and awareness that their hallucinations are not real."
Berkana reaches out and touches her deep crimson datura.
Narcissiia says, "Some poisons can also be used to attempt to compel the victim to tell the truth, though it should be noted that these poisons are imperfect at best. A potion made from hensbane, datura, and corkwood is known as the Sleeptalker and well feared for good reason within Ta'Nalfein. It renders its victim numb and in a disassociated, calm state halfway between awake and dreaming."
Narcissiia says, "They are still able to talk, however, and peculiarly enough, most victims seem incapable of intentionally lying while under the effects. Care has to be taken however, as its easy to give too large a dosage which will render a victim unconscious or even cause their heart to fail entirely and kill them."
Narcissiia continues, "There are no known plant based remedies for Sleeptalker, which makes it particularly terrifying. Fortunately for most people, producing the potion is exceedingly painstaking and difficult, and so its use is not remotely common."
Narcissiia nods slowly.
Narcissiia folds her hands.
Narcissiia says, "Finally, some poisons can be used to cause discomfort or torment in others."
Ordim raises an eyebrow.
Narcissiia gazes up into the heavens.
Luthais smiles quietly to himself.
Inglorion glances at Ordim.
Narcissiia says, "Most people are familiar with plants that upon contact irritate the skin. Rubbing down a rival's pillow or favorite handkerchief with poison oak will cause her face to erupt in painful and itchy blisters, for instance. Experimentation of this nature is not uncommon as a young Nalfein's first forays into practicing the art on an adversary or rival."
Ordim glances down.
Narcissiia cryptically says, "There are also poisons that can be rubbed on blades and weapons, so that even if the cut or attack isn't fatal, the victim will continue to be punished."
Narcissiia slowly tilts her wrist upwards, flicking her silk fan open in a smooth delicate motion while gazing demurely past the thin razored blades branching across the fan.
Narcissiia explains, "In Ta'Nalfein, it is customary for the blades of the fans used in fan dances to be wiped down just before the dance begins, especially if the dance involves more than a single dancer. The reason being that there was a time when it was a bit of a trend to apply a poison to the blades when dancing with a rival and hoping she would feel the kiss of a blade."
Narcissiia chuckles.
Narcissiia explains, "In Ta'Nalfein, it is customary for the blades of the fans used in fan dances to be wiped down just before the dance begins, especially if the dance involves more than a single dancer. The reason being that there was a time when it was a bit of a trend to apply a poison to the blades when dancing with a rival and hoping she would feel the kiss of a blade."
Narcissiia chuckles.
Narcissiia says, "The poison of choice for this is an oil made from the red juice of the bloodroot plant, sometimes also known as bloodwort. The plant itself looks somewhat similar to daisies, with white petals and a creamy yellow center. The sap inside of the stems is a red liquid. Bloodroot liquid is caustic to the skin upon contact, creating a large and oozing sore."
Inglorion rubs his chin thoughtfully.
Limorten turns his black leather notebook over, running his hand lovingly over its cover.
Limorten nods understandingly.
Narcissiia lectures, "Introducing it to an open wound will cause the wound to fester and to scar quite horrifically once it does get healed. Ochre fungus is the best plant to use to heal bloodroot poison, though acantha leaf, poppy for the pain, and some patience will also work."
Narcissiia smoothly affixes her silk fan to her wrist, the triad of razored blades rippling like water as they warp and reflect the light in strange patterns.
Narcissiia seriously says, "It is shockingly common for even otherwise sophisticated people to immediately think of a dark assassin in the night and a person falling dead when the topic of poison comes up. Rarely do they think of the extra herbs tossed into a person's morning tea, a sprinkling of crushed up seeds into porridge, a swipe of oil on a fan blade, or a maiden newly flowered rubbing poison ivy on her rival's pillow, but all are also examples of poisoning utilizing botanical ingredients and with a manipulating intention being the goal, rather than outright lethally eliminating a rival or enemy."
(Narcissiia looks around slowly, another tiny smile pulling at her lips after a moment.)
Narcissiia teasingly says, "Remember that there is more to the art than simply trying to make someone dead. Many times the best way to do that is with the wrong end of steel, not with flower extracts."
Merelle smiles quietly to herself.
Narcissiia chuckles.
Narcissiia curtsies gracefully.
Narcissiia sincerely says, "On behalf of the Ilyan Syndicate, and on my own, I thank you all for attending today's lecture. I will now be taking any questions anyone may have."
(Sorrah chews on the end of her quill in a rather unladylike manner then stops, blushing lightly as she realizes.)
Speaking quietly to Narcissiia, Talinvor asks, "Knowledge comes from experience, neh?"
Narcissiia teasingly says, "If it's about why we don't have a food cart, I'm afraid I'm going to disappoint you."
Narcissiia looks thoughtfully at Talinvor.
Tinuon says, "I wouldn't trust it."
Tinuon says, "Given the topic."
Tinuon starts chortling.
Berkana begins chuckling at Tinuon!
Luthais says, "Wise."
Luthais nods.
Inglorion takes a slow, deep breath then pinches the bridge of his nose.
(Narcissiia shifts her weight and levels an intense expression at Talinvor.)
Limorten stands up.
Limorten stretches his arms out in front of him, attempting to loosen the tension in his neck and shoulders.
Talinvor grins wryly.
Narcissiia says, "I had to actually think before I agreed to do this lecture that a comment or question like that would come up."
Narcissiia laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement.
Speaking amusedly to Narcissiia, Talinvor asks, "So.. is that a 'no comment'?"
Inglorion ponders.
Speaking playfully to Talinvor, Merelle interjects, "Which means, yes."
Narcissiia says, "For the sake of complete honest, I was the one who ended up with sores from poison oak."
(Narcissiia ducks slightly behind her fan as a flush rises to her cheeks.)
(Sorrah cautiously raises her quill, trying to attract Lady Narcissiia's attention.)
Speaking smoothly to Talinvor, Narcissiia says, "But also for the sake of honesty, I got my vengeance."
Narcissiia fans herself lightly with her silk fan, the small bladepoints within glittering like a trail of twinkling stardust over her skin as she takes on a subtly studious expression.
Speaking wryly to Narcissiia, Talinvor says, "And that... is what a Nalfein *should* say."
Narcissiia asks, "So unfortunate to have stomach troubles while on the first evening out with the man you want desperately to pursue you alone, no?"
Narcissiia flutters her eyelashes.
Talinvor laughs softly, trying to hide his amusement.
Narcissiia nods at Sorrah.
Luthais amusedly says, "Unfortunate indeed."
Talinvor amusedly says, "Well played."
Speaking softly to Narcissiia, Sorrah says, "Milady, are all of the plants you spoke of locally available? I recognized some and you mentioned the ochre from the dwarven city..."
Narcissiia says, "Most are but some are certainly harder to come by."
Narcissiia nods at Sorrah.
Sorrah nods at Narcissiia.
Sorrah smiles.
Narcissiia says, "The ochre can be foraged but it will take persistance by someone with skill at seeking out botanicals."
Merelle raises her hand.
Narcissiia nods at Merelle.
Speaking curiously to Narcissiia, Merelle asks, "Is it true that poisonous botanicals often grow in the same vicinity as their antidote counterparts or is that an old wives tale?"
(Sorrah scribbles a small note to the side of her neat script.)
Inglorion casually glances at Narcissiia.
Narcissiia begins chuckling at Merelle!
Narcissiia says, "It's not.. ah.."
Narcissiia looks lost in thought.
Speaking slyly to Merelle, Tinuon says, "Given that water can be poisonous i suppose there's some truth to that."
Merelle smiles at Tinuon.
Talinvor takes a drink from his Dhe'nari blood wine.
Narcissiia says, "The best way I can put it is this."
Merelle glibly comments, "I was just thinking it was expedient."
Merelle looks thoughtful for a moment, then shrugs.
Narcissiia laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement.
Debia raises her hand.
Narcissiia says, "No, this is an excellent question."
Inglorion rubs his chin thoughtfully.
Narcissiia says, "The best way I can put it, is that plants to grow in entire systems."
Narcissiia says, "So no, an antidote likely won't grow next to a poison but an antidote is more likely to grow within the same environment as the poison."
Merelle nods understandingly at Narcissiia.
Ordim appears lost in thought.
Narcissiia nods at Merelle.
Narcissiia turns to face Debia.
Speaking to Narcissiia, Merelle says, "Thank you."
Narcissiia cocks her head.
Speaking to Narcissiia, Debia asks, "Is further reading available somewhere?"
Narcissiia begins chuckling at Debia!
Debia innocently says, "What."
Speaking to Debia, Narcissiia says, "Unfortunately this is just my own personal knowledge but I will let you know if a volume becomes available through the library here in the Shining City."
Debia nods at Narcissiia.
Ordim looks lost in thought.
Narcissiia fans herself lightly with her silk fan, the small bladepoints within glittering like a trail of twinkling stardust over her skin as she takes on a subtly studious expression.
Narcissiia glances at Ordim.
Narcissiia asks, "Any more questions?"
Narcissiia cocks her head.
Narcissiia slowly extends her hand and flicks her silk fan closed in one smooth, fluid motion -- allowing the small smile playing upon her lips to be seen once again.
Narcissiia smoothly affixes her silk fan to her wrist, the points of its overlapped blades twinkling with reflected light.
Tinuon asks, "Do we have any samples of those recreational poppies?"
Talinvor begins chuckling at Tinuon!
Ordim giggles at Tinuon.
Merelle gazes in amusement at Tinuon.
Luthais chuckles.
You smile quietly to yourself.
Inglorion gazes up into the heavens.
Speaking lightly to Tinuon, Narcissiia says, "Perhaps we'll go on a foraging trip later."
Sorrah just nudged Tinuon.
Sorrah grins.
Narcissiia snickers.
Speaking to Tinuon, Merelle exclaims, "Everyone around to your dwelling tonight, then!"
Narcissiia grins at Merelle.
Speaking amusedly to Narcissiia, Talinvor says, "Then you can take advantage however you like."
Talinvor pokes Tinuon in the ribs.
Tinuon chuckles.
Narcissiia begins chuckling at Talinvor!
Speaking surprisedly to Talinvor, Narcissiia asks, "You think I need an altered state for that..?"
Speaking flirtatiously to Narcissiia, Talinvor asks, "Not out of practice, are you?"
Speaking to Narcissiia, Ordim says, "Thank you for the informative lecture this evening."
Ordim nods in agreement at Narcissiia.
Ordim smiles.
Narcissiia nods at Ordim.
Narcissiia glances at Talinvor.
Narcissiia smirks.
(Talinvor buries a smug grin in his wine.)
Sorrah put a plumed quill in her flyrsilk ditty bag.
Sorrah put a thin leather-covered book embossed with golden borders in her flyrsilk ditty bag.
Narcissiia says, "I'll spin for a winner now.."
Narcissiia removes a large black velvet sack from in her etched silver vasculum.
Narcissiia just opened a large black velvet sack.
Tinuon asks, "A winner?"
Narcissiia says, "Inside you'll find a ring perfect for concealing any powders or leaves, a bag of crushed nightshade, and various other botanical poisons."
Narcissiia taps a large black velvet sack, which is in her right hand.
Narcissiia nods at Tinuon.
You blandly say, "Don't worry, the winning isn't being poisoned."
Merelle chuckles to herself.
Tinuon starts chuckling at you!
Luthais gazes in amusement at you.
Sorrah grins at you.
Narcissiia laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement.
Speaking to Narcissiia, Luthais reasons, "But no poppy."
Speaking to Luthais, Narcissiia says, "No, I'll let you go forth and discover that on your own."
Narcissiia hums quietly to herself.
Narcissiia removes a vaalin-swept illthorn leaf pin from in her etched silver vasculum.
Inglorion murmurs, "Abortificaents perhaps..."
Inglorion rubs his chin thoughtfully.
Tinuon says, "Well, good luck novice poisoners on obtaining such a satchel."
Narcissiia laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement.
Narcissiia places her illthorn leaf pin flat on her palm and gives it a brisk spin. The illthorn leaf pin twirls around in a blur for a few seconds before coming to rest pointing directly at Berkana. Berkana wins!
You say, "Well-spun."
Speaking amusedly to Berkana, Talinvor says, "That could be useful."
Speaking to Narcissiia, Berkana says, "Well... thank you..."
Speaking to Berkana, Narcissiia says, "Enjoy as you will."
Narcissiia grins.
Berkana glances at a large black velvet sack in her hand.
Narcissiia put a vaalin-swept illthorn leaf pin in her wool pelisse.
Debia whispers something to Berkana.
Debia clears her throat.
Speaking to Narcissiia, Merelle says, "Thank you for a very interesting talk."
Speaking to Berkana, Talinvor says, "No poisoning me, though."
Narcissiia nods at Merelle.
Berkana says, "It might come in handy."
Talinvor folds his arms over his chest.
Berkana hums a seemingly random tune.
Berkana winks at Talinvor.
Narcissiia says, "I sincerely appreciate everyone coming out for it."
Tinuon says, "Excellent insight indeed."
Speaking to Berkana, Narcissiia says, "Get some of that poppy and rob him blind."
Talinvor scoffs at Narcissiia.
Narcissiia asks, "Oh my did I say that aloud?"
Tinuon begins chuckling at Narcissiia!
Narcissiia hums quietly to herself.
Tinuon stands up.
Luthais gazes in amusement at Narcissiia.
You laugh softly, trying to hide your amusement.
Speaking softly to Narcissiia, Sorrah says, "You presented the material beautifully. Thank you."
Tinuon waves.
Tinuon says, "Safe evening all."
Narcissiia nods at Merelle.
Berkana begins chuckling at Narcissiia!
Tinuon deftly removes the rowan runestaff from his sling.
Merelle smiles.
Inglorion casts a bemused glance at Narcissiia.
Tinuon just went east.
Talinvor preens.
Speaking to Narcissiia, Berkana says, "I will put the study of the contents to good use."
Narcissiia chuckles.
Merelle exclaims, "Have a good evening all!"
Narcissiia says, "Welcome to today's lecture on plant based poisons, and a brief introduction to their uses in the Nalfein court."
Narcissiia folds her hands.
Narcissiia lectures, "First and foremost, it cannot be stressed enough that it is the dosage which makes the poison. After all, one can be poisoned by simply drinking too much water in too short a time."
Narcissiia chuckles.
Luthais gazes in amusement at Narcissiia.
Narcissiia says, "The second point I must stress is that the effectiveness of the use of poison is largely determined by not the poison selected, but the poisoner's own creativity and consideration of the strengths and weaknesses of their target."
Sorrah smiles and makes a quick note in her book
Narcissiia lightly asks, "Why go through the trouble of securing some obscure, distilled toxin when your victim is allergic to peanuts and you can simply use peanut oil or dust on a pillow or inside the rim of a goblet?"
Narcissiia raises an eyebrow.
Narcissiia says, "My final opening point is to bear in mind that not all or even most poisonings are done with the intent to be lethal. In Ta'Nalfein a person may be poisoned to keep them from attending a social event, to discredit them in the eyes of their peers, or even to cause chaos in a young family attempting to establish their bloodline."
Narcissiia smiles faintly.
Narcissiia amusedly says, "In other cultures, use of poisons may be seen as a something only a weak person or perhaps a craven would do. This is not the case in Ta'Nalfein, where poisons are viewed as just another aspect of court life. Poisoning is viewed and even respected as an art form, and within the court it is seen as far more shameful to be the hapless victim of poisoning rather than the aggressor."
Narcissiia waves her hand in a dismissive gesture.
Narcissiia says, "It should be noted though that it's considered to be a severe breach of Nalfein etiquette to administer poisons to visiting foreigners. A good rule of etiquette to keep us in good standing with our brothers and sisters from the other elven cities, I would say."
Narcissiia shifts her weight.
Luthais smiles quietly to himself.
Narcissiia says, "Most non-Nalfein who come to the city however, either to be fostered or as part of an ambassador's household, are immediately set up to receive training in recognizing and curing poisoning. It's both a matter of practicality and giving our guests peace of mind."
Narcissiia warns, "Outside of Ta'Nalfein, however, it will be up to the personal discretion of the individual as to what lengths they may use poison. Those of us born into the higher classes are typically instructed to be subtle, discreet, and very particular if and when we ever choose to. Those born into lower classes may be a bit more.. free-wheeling and liberal.. In their use for personal gain, given they have less to lose should their behavior be discovered."
(Narcissiia pauses a brief moment, flipping open the lid on her vasculum before continuing on.)
Narcissiia says, "The oldest plant poisons known to us are ones discovered by women, and intended for women. I'm speaking of abortificaents, specifically."
Narcissiia lightly says, "In Ta'Nalfein it is not common at all for women to willfully take these plants with any regularity, as our birth rates are naturally low without intervention. That has not stopped their use entirely, however. I mentioned earlier that poison can be used to leave a bloodline in upheaval."
Narcissiia explains, "The most popular is to use tinctures of tansy and pennyroyal, usually blended into a lady's morning tea. Repeated use could cause a Lord to set his spouse aside for someone more fertile, for instance. This usually will also ruin the woman's prospects for another marriage, as word will spread of her poor health and fertility and scare off potential suitors. It could also leave a household without an heir upon the death of the lord or lady, and thus causing all lands, titles, and wealth to pass into the hands of a cousin or other relative."
(Narcissiia extracts and holds up a yellow fluffy flower from her vasculum, her fingers holding it by the long green stem.)
Narcissiia says, "This is the tansy, a member of the aster family. When in bloom the flowers are a round and plush bright yellow. For its medicinal qualities to be extracted, the leaves and stems are used. They can be dried and used like a typical tea, or it can be distilled and used in an oil or tincture through slightly more complicated methods."
Ordim nods understandingly.
Narcissiia instructs, "Tansy has a bitter flavor to it, so it is not uncommon for newly pregnant nobility in Ta'Nalfein to select only plain, sweet, and delicate teas such as chamomile, so that they can detect any tansy at the first brush of their lips to their cup."
(Narcissiia returns the bloom to her vasculum and pulls a pale purple stalk of flowers from within, the stalk nearly the length of her forearm.)
Narcissiia says, "This is Pennyroyal. In bloom the flowers are a lovely light purple and form a delicate arching stalk, not unlike the larkspur. Like tansy either the leaves and stems can be used like tea leaves or it can be distilled into oil or a tincture. The taste and smell is sharp and pungent and very reminiscent of peppermint or spearmint."
Narcissiia smirks.
Narcissiia dryly says, "Needless to say, in Ta'Nalfein it is unlikely you would find any pregnant woman partaking in a cup of mint tea, lest they give their would-be poisoner the perfect opening."
Narcissiia adds, "Angelica and parsley are also known abortifacients, but they require a significantly higher dosage which makes them impractical for most poisoners."
Narcissiia calmly says, "Unfortunately for the unlucky woman who finds herself drinking a cup of tansy or pennyroyal, there are not many known antidotes. Drinking a preparation of steamed peat charcoal mixed with water can negate some effects but may not be enough to save the pregnancy."
Narcissiia says, "The other known plant cure if ingested shortly after the poison is the ochre fungus, which can be harvested in the dwarven city of Zul Logoth. It is not uncommon for some more wealthy women to eat one of the mushrooms at the end of every meal during their first trimester of pregnancy."
Narcissiia says, "Some women seem to have a natural immunity of sorts to these plants, though it's not well understood why. Should you ever come across a Nalfein with tansy, pennyroyal, or aster in their name you can be sure that they survived an attempted poisoning while in the womb."
Narcissiia smoothly says, "The next topic we will cover are plants that can induce a psychoactive effect. Obviously for some people these plants are used in a, ah, recreational manner, but they certainly have their uses when used against someone caught unaware."
(Narcissiia retrieves a dark red blossom from within her vasculum, the bloody hue of the flat petals interrupted with swirls of yellow coming from the center.)
Narcissiia explains, "This is the poppy. When in bloom they have flowers of rich, warm colors like purples, reds, and blues, with touches of white and yellow amongst the large, flat petals. The sap from the plants can be extracted and purified to make a tasteless liquid that will render a person numb and incredibly sleepy."
Narcissiia shifts her weight.
(Narcissiia deposits the poppy back into the vasculum and a tiny smirk quirks at the corner of her mouth.)
Narcissiia says, "In Ta'Nalfein this may be slipped into a person's afternoon tea or meal to cause them to fall asleep and miss an important social event later that night, or break an important engagement that causes them to lose social standing or cause conflict with an allying household or person."
Narcissiia serenely says, "The most common antidote is a generous amount of scotch broom tincture. This will cause the drinker to vomit for a short time but if the poisoning is caught in time, will negate the worst of the effects of the poppy."
(Sorrah smoothly scribes a few more notes, nodding thoughtfully as she does.)
(Luthais stretches his legs out in front of him, reclining somewhat in his seat.)
Inglorion shifts his weight.
(Narcissiia pulls out a pink flower with pronounced heart shaped leaves and a center of black seeds, and holds it up.)
Sorrah whispers, "Did she say a broom?"
Narcissiia continues, "Another interesting plant is the morning glory. The leaves are heart shaped and the petals, which open in the morning and give it its name, are usually pink, white, or purple. You will also notice the tiny black seeds... those seeds are what we are interested in."
You quietly whisper to Sorrah, "It's named that, yes."
Narcissiia says, "When crushed and ingested, the seeds have a compound that cause the eater to hallucinate vividly, while awake and alert. The victim is still able to speak and move about as if they are not drugged. Typically the seeds are crushed and mixed into an appropriate food to mask them. They have a slightly bitter taste, so usually porridge or something that is sweetened and with a complex texture is the culinary vehicle of choice."
Sorrah whispers, "Thank you, I did not wish to misname it in my notes."
Narcissiia adds, "It has not been unheard of in Ta'Nalfein for a courtier to be stricken with sudden madness while in an audience or public social event, causing a falling in prestige and standing once they have recovered. People in the midst of faction or household conflicts that require mediating by the King or His council are at an even higher risk of poisoning by the morning glory, to cast doubt about the validity of their claims or complaints, for instance."
Limorten removes a silver-worked black leather notebook from in his cloak.
Narcissiia softly says, "Licorice has properties that not only can help boost the mood in stubborn cases of lingering melancholy, but can also help negate the effects of morning glory seeds. Three spoonfuls of properly prepared licorice oil can dampen the hallucinations and help the victim retain better control and awareness that their hallucinations are not real."
Berkana reaches out and touches her deep crimson datura.
Narcissiia says, "Some poisons can also be used to attempt to compel the victim to tell the truth, though it should be noted that these poisons are imperfect at best. A potion made from hensbane, datura, and corkwood is known as the Sleeptalker and well feared for good reason within Ta'Nalfein. It renders its victim numb and in a disassociated, calm state halfway between awake and dreaming."
Narcissiia says, "They are still able to talk, however, and peculiarly enough, most victims seem incapable of intentionally lying while under the effects. Care has to be taken however, as its easy to give too large a dosage which will render a victim unconscious or even cause their heart to fail entirely and kill them."
Narcissiia continues, "There are no known plant based remedies for Sleeptalker, which makes it particularly terrifying. Fortunately for most people, producing the potion is exceedingly painstaking and difficult, and so its use is not remotely common."
Narcissiia nods slowly.
Narcissiia folds her hands.
Narcissiia says, "Finally, some poisons can be used to cause discomfort or torment in others."
Ordim raises an eyebrow.
Narcissiia gazes up into the heavens.
Luthais smiles quietly to himself.
Inglorion glances at Ordim.
Narcissiia says, "Most people are familiar with plants that upon contact irritate the skin. Rubbing down a rival's pillow or favorite handkerchief with poison oak will cause her face to erupt in painful and itchy blisters, for instance. Experimentation of this nature is not uncommon as a young Nalfein's first forays into practicing the art on an adversary or rival."
Ordim glances down.
Narcissiia cryptically says, "There are also poisons that can be rubbed on blades and weapons, so that even if the cut or attack isn't fatal, the victim will continue to be punished."
Narcissiia slowly tilts her wrist upwards, flicking her silk fan open in a smooth delicate motion while gazing demurely past the thin razored blades branching across the fan.
Narcissiia explains, "In Ta'Nalfein, it is customary for the blades of the fans used in fan dances to be wiped down just before the dance begins, especially if the dance involves more than a single dancer. The reason being that there was a time when it was a bit of a trend to apply a poison to the blades when dancing with a rival and hoping she would feel the kiss of a blade."
Narcissiia chuckles.
Narcissiia explains, "In Ta'Nalfein, it is customary for the blades of the fans used in fan dances to be wiped down just before the dance begins, especially if the dance involves more than a single dancer. The reason being that there was a time when it was a bit of a trend to apply a poison to the blades when dancing with a rival and hoping she would feel the kiss of a blade."
Narcissiia chuckles.
Narcissiia says, "The poison of choice for this is an oil made from the red juice of the bloodroot plant, sometimes also known as bloodwort. The plant itself looks somewhat similar to daisies, with white petals and a creamy yellow center. The sap inside of the stems is a red liquid. Bloodroot liquid is caustic to the skin upon contact, creating a large and oozing sore."
Inglorion rubs his chin thoughtfully.
Limorten turns his black leather notebook over, running his hand lovingly over its cover.
Limorten nods understandingly.
Narcissiia lectures, "Introducing it to an open wound will cause the wound to fester and to scar quite horrifically once it does get healed. Ochre fungus is the best plant to use to heal bloodroot poison, though acantha leaf, poppy for the pain, and some patience will also work."
Narcissiia smoothly affixes her silk fan to her wrist, the triad of razored blades rippling like water as they warp and reflect the light in strange patterns.
Narcissiia seriously says, "It is shockingly common for even otherwise sophisticated people to immediately think of a dark assassin in the night and a person falling dead when the topic of poison comes up. Rarely do they think of the extra herbs tossed into a person's morning tea, a sprinkling of crushed up seeds into porridge, a swipe of oil on a fan blade, or a maiden newly flowered rubbing poison ivy on her rival's pillow, but all are also examples of poisoning utilizing botanical ingredients and with a manipulating intention being the goal, rather than outright lethally eliminating a rival or enemy."
(Narcissiia looks around slowly, another tiny smile pulling at her lips after a moment.)
Narcissiia teasingly says, "Remember that there is more to the art than simply trying to make someone dead. Many times the best way to do that is with the wrong end of steel, not with flower extracts."
Merelle smiles quietly to herself.
Narcissiia chuckles.
Narcissiia curtsies gracefully.
Narcissiia sincerely says, "On behalf of the Ilyan Syndicate, and on my own, I thank you all for attending today's lecture. I will now be taking any questions anyone may have."
(Sorrah chews on the end of her quill in a rather unladylike manner then stops, blushing lightly as she realizes.)
Speaking quietly to Narcissiia, Talinvor asks, "Knowledge comes from experience, neh?"
Narcissiia teasingly says, "If it's about why we don't have a food cart, I'm afraid I'm going to disappoint you."
Narcissiia looks thoughtfully at Talinvor.
Tinuon says, "I wouldn't trust it."
Tinuon says, "Given the topic."
Tinuon starts chortling.
Berkana begins chuckling at Tinuon!
Luthais says, "Wise."
Luthais nods.
Inglorion takes a slow, deep breath then pinches the bridge of his nose.
(Narcissiia shifts her weight and levels an intense expression at Talinvor.)
Limorten stands up.
Limorten stretches his arms out in front of him, attempting to loosen the tension in his neck and shoulders.
Talinvor grins wryly.
Narcissiia says, "I had to actually think before I agreed to do this lecture that a comment or question like that would come up."
Narcissiia laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement.
Speaking amusedly to Narcissiia, Talinvor asks, "So.. is that a 'no comment'?"
Inglorion ponders.
Speaking playfully to Talinvor, Merelle interjects, "Which means, yes."
Narcissiia says, "For the sake of complete honest, I was the one who ended up with sores from poison oak."
(Narcissiia ducks slightly behind her fan as a flush rises to her cheeks.)
(Sorrah cautiously raises her quill, trying to attract Lady Narcissiia's attention.)
Speaking smoothly to Talinvor, Narcissiia says, "But also for the sake of honesty, I got my vengeance."
Narcissiia fans herself lightly with her silk fan, the small bladepoints within glittering like a trail of twinkling stardust over her skin as she takes on a subtly studious expression.
Speaking wryly to Narcissiia, Talinvor says, "And that... is what a Nalfein *should* say."
Narcissiia asks, "So unfortunate to have stomach troubles while on the first evening out with the man you want desperately to pursue you alone, no?"
Narcissiia flutters her eyelashes.
Talinvor laughs softly, trying to hide his amusement.
Narcissiia nods at Sorrah.
Luthais amusedly says, "Unfortunate indeed."
Talinvor amusedly says, "Well played."
Speaking softly to Narcissiia, Sorrah says, "Milady, are all of the plants you spoke of locally available? I recognized some and you mentioned the ochre from the dwarven city..."
Narcissiia says, "Most are but some are certainly harder to come by."
Narcissiia nods at Sorrah.
Sorrah nods at Narcissiia.
Sorrah smiles.
Narcissiia says, "The ochre can be foraged but it will take persistance by someone with skill at seeking out botanicals."
Merelle raises her hand.
Narcissiia nods at Merelle.
Speaking curiously to Narcissiia, Merelle asks, "Is it true that poisonous botanicals often grow in the same vicinity as their antidote counterparts or is that an old wives tale?"
(Sorrah scribbles a small note to the side of her neat script.)
Inglorion casually glances at Narcissiia.
Narcissiia begins chuckling at Merelle!
Narcissiia says, "It's not.. ah.."
Narcissiia looks lost in thought.
Speaking slyly to Merelle, Tinuon says, "Given that water can be poisonous i suppose there's some truth to that."
Merelle smiles at Tinuon.
Talinvor takes a drink from his Dhe'nari blood wine.
Narcissiia says, "The best way I can put it is this."
Merelle glibly comments, "I was just thinking it was expedient."
Merelle looks thoughtful for a moment, then shrugs.
Narcissiia laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement.
Debia raises her hand.
Narcissiia says, "No, this is an excellent question."
Inglorion rubs his chin thoughtfully.
Narcissiia says, "The best way I can put it, is that plants to grow in entire systems."
Narcissiia says, "So no, an antidote likely won't grow next to a poison but an antidote is more likely to grow within the same environment as the poison."
Merelle nods understandingly at Narcissiia.
Ordim appears lost in thought.
Narcissiia nods at Merelle.
Narcissiia turns to face Debia.
Speaking to Narcissiia, Merelle says, "Thank you."
Narcissiia cocks her head.
Speaking to Narcissiia, Debia asks, "Is further reading available somewhere?"
Narcissiia begins chuckling at Debia!
Debia innocently says, "What."
Speaking to Debia, Narcissiia says, "Unfortunately this is just my own personal knowledge but I will let you know if a volume becomes available through the library here in the Shining City."
Debia nods at Narcissiia.
Ordim looks lost in thought.
Narcissiia fans herself lightly with her silk fan, the small bladepoints within glittering like a trail of twinkling stardust over her skin as she takes on a subtly studious expression.
Narcissiia glances at Ordim.
Narcissiia asks, "Any more questions?"
Narcissiia cocks her head.
Narcissiia slowly extends her hand and flicks her silk fan closed in one smooth, fluid motion -- allowing the small smile playing upon her lips to be seen once again.
Narcissiia smoothly affixes her silk fan to her wrist, the points of its overlapped blades twinkling with reflected light.
Tinuon asks, "Do we have any samples of those recreational poppies?"
Talinvor begins chuckling at Tinuon!
Ordim giggles at Tinuon.
Merelle gazes in amusement at Tinuon.
Luthais chuckles.
You smile quietly to yourself.
Inglorion gazes up into the heavens.
Speaking lightly to Tinuon, Narcissiia says, "Perhaps we'll go on a foraging trip later."
Sorrah just nudged Tinuon.
Sorrah grins.
Narcissiia snickers.
Speaking to Tinuon, Merelle exclaims, "Everyone around to your dwelling tonight, then!"
Narcissiia grins at Merelle.
Speaking amusedly to Narcissiia, Talinvor says, "Then you can take advantage however you like."
Talinvor pokes Tinuon in the ribs.
Tinuon chuckles.
Narcissiia begins chuckling at Talinvor!
Speaking surprisedly to Talinvor, Narcissiia asks, "You think I need an altered state for that..?"
Speaking flirtatiously to Narcissiia, Talinvor asks, "Not out of practice, are you?"
Speaking to Narcissiia, Ordim says, "Thank you for the informative lecture this evening."
Ordim nods in agreement at Narcissiia.
Ordim smiles.
Narcissiia nods at Ordim.
Narcissiia glances at Talinvor.
Narcissiia smirks.
(Talinvor buries a smug grin in his wine.)
Sorrah put a plumed quill in her flyrsilk ditty bag.
Sorrah put a thin leather-covered book embossed with golden borders in her flyrsilk ditty bag.
Narcissiia says, "I'll spin for a winner now.."
Narcissiia removes a large black velvet sack from in her etched silver vasculum.
Narcissiia just opened a large black velvet sack.
Tinuon asks, "A winner?"
Narcissiia says, "Inside you'll find a ring perfect for concealing any powders or leaves, a bag of crushed nightshade, and various other botanical poisons."
Narcissiia taps a large black velvet sack, which is in her right hand.
Narcissiia nods at Tinuon.
You blandly say, "Don't worry, the winning isn't being poisoned."
Merelle chuckles to herself.
Tinuon starts chuckling at you!
Luthais gazes in amusement at you.
Sorrah grins at you.
Narcissiia laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement.
Speaking to Narcissiia, Luthais reasons, "But no poppy."
Speaking to Luthais, Narcissiia says, "No, I'll let you go forth and discover that on your own."
Narcissiia hums quietly to herself.
Narcissiia removes a vaalin-swept illthorn leaf pin from in her etched silver vasculum.
Inglorion murmurs, "Abortificaents perhaps..."
Inglorion rubs his chin thoughtfully.
Tinuon says, "Well, good luck novice poisoners on obtaining such a satchel."
Narcissiia laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement.
Narcissiia places her illthorn leaf pin flat on her palm and gives it a brisk spin. The illthorn leaf pin twirls around in a blur for a few seconds before coming to rest pointing directly at Berkana. Berkana wins!
You say, "Well-spun."
Speaking amusedly to Berkana, Talinvor says, "That could be useful."
Speaking to Narcissiia, Berkana says, "Well... thank you..."
Speaking to Berkana, Narcissiia says, "Enjoy as you will."
Narcissiia grins.
Berkana glances at a large black velvet sack in her hand.
Narcissiia put a vaalin-swept illthorn leaf pin in her wool pelisse.
Debia whispers something to Berkana.
Debia clears her throat.
Speaking to Narcissiia, Merelle says, "Thank you for a very interesting talk."
Speaking to Berkana, Talinvor says, "No poisoning me, though."
Narcissiia nods at Merelle.
Berkana says, "It might come in handy."
Talinvor folds his arms over his chest.
Berkana hums a seemingly random tune.
Berkana winks at Talinvor.
Narcissiia says, "I sincerely appreciate everyone coming out for it."
Tinuon says, "Excellent insight indeed."
Speaking to Berkana, Narcissiia says, "Get some of that poppy and rob him blind."
Talinvor scoffs at Narcissiia.
Narcissiia asks, "Oh my did I say that aloud?"
Tinuon begins chuckling at Narcissiia!
Narcissiia hums quietly to herself.
Tinuon stands up.
Luthais gazes in amusement at Narcissiia.
You laugh softly, trying to hide your amusement.
Speaking softly to Narcissiia, Sorrah says, "You presented the material beautifully. Thank you."
Tinuon waves.
Tinuon says, "Safe evening all."
Narcissiia nods at Merelle.
Berkana begins chuckling at Narcissiia!
Tinuon deftly removes the rowan runestaff from his sling.
Merelle smiles.
Inglorion casts a bemused glance at Narcissiia.
Tinuon just went east.
Talinvor preens.
Speaking to Narcissiia, Berkana says, "I will put the study of the contents to good use."
Narcissiia chuckles.
Merelle exclaims, "Have a good evening all!"