Barnaby's Acid Splash

This vial of acid can be thrown up to 30 feet (even if blocked by the target the splash effect will still cause damage) and causes 2d6 acid damage for two rounds (half damage upon a dexterity save). It can also be used to weaken metal locks, hinges, etc and damages most items except for glass and things imbued with magic. 

Components: Saltpeter, brine, sea salt, copper verdigris, apple cider vinegar, water and either animal gall or nightshade root scraping.

• Yield: 1 Standard Flask (approx. 4 oz)

• Prep Time: 2 hours (plus 3 days steeping)

• Shelf Life: Stable if corked tight, though it will slowly eat through inferior glass over a few months.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Strong Apple Cider Vinegar (The primary solvent and acidifier)

• 1 oz Saturated Brine & Sea Salt (To drive up the ionic conductivity and corrosion rate)

• 1 tbsp Copper Verdigris Scrapings (Scraped from old tavern tap fittings or copper kettles)

• 1 tsp Nightshade Root Scraping or Dried Animal Gall (The organic caustic catalyst)

• A splash of Well Water (For temperature control during the reduction)

Instructions

1. The Copper Infusion: In a heavy stoneware crock, combine the apple cider vinegar and the copper verdigris scrapings. Stir thoroughly with a wooden paddle. The vinegar will immediately begin to bite into the metal, turning a cloudy, pale blue-green.

2. The Saline Boost: Pour in the brine and sea salt. The heavy salt content increases the density of the solution, ensuring the finished splash clings to target surfaces rather than running off cleanly.

3. The Caustic Additive: Fold in the nightshade root scraping (or finely powdered animal gall). This releases complex organic alkaloids that break down natural protective barriers—like leather armor or tough hide.

4. The Slow Simmer: Place the crock over a low, steady coal heat behind the tavern hearth. Allow the mixture to reduce by roughly a third, keeping a safe distance from the vapors.

5. The Quench & Dilute: Remove from heat and carefully drop in a small splash of well water to stabilize the chemical volatility so it doesn't crack your storage vessels.

6. Bottling: Once cooled to room temperature, funnel the vibrant, fizzing emerald liquid into a thick-walled glass flask and seal it tightly with a waxed cork.

Barnaby's Note: "Always shake the flask before throwing. If the mixture goes totally clear and stops bubbling at the top of the vial the copper has settled out—drop in a scratch of rust to jump-start the reaction again."

Notes: Damage: Acid, Combat Potion