Formula Alembic in Ultimate Equipment

[Captain Harry Flashman]

Hi there, I just have a query or two about the Formula Alembic wondrous item in Ultimate Equipment. Is the device reusable and thus the only additional cost is that of the subsequent potions distilled in it? And does the Alchemist need to make a Spellcraft check in order to scribe the formula into his book or is the knowledge gained for 24 hours enough in and of itself? It just seems like such an inexpensive and easy way to expand the Alchemist's Formula book that I wondered if there wasn't some sort of catch. Any advice is much appreciated. Thanks!

[BigNorseWolf]

Its no cheaper than stuffing a wizard in his locker and cribbing notes off his spellbook.

I think the knowledge gained is sufficient but its kind of a moot point, as usually you can just take 10 and scribe it in anyway.

[Tony Lindman]

If you happen to find potions in an adventure that you could add to your formula book, and haven't used them by the end, then it's not a bad deal (just like found scrolls). Between adventures, I'd just pay the "hire a wizard" price rather than buy a potion.

[Captain Harry Flashman]

Tony Lindman wrote:

If you happen to find potions in an adventure that you could add to your formula book, and haven't used them by the end, then it's not a bad deal (just like found scrolls). Between adventures, I'd just pay the "hire a wizard" price rather than buy a potion.

Thanks for the advice, Tony and Big Norse. Much appreciated and cheers!