Alchemist and Hands Errata issue

[shroudb]

We need precise language and rules for holding multiple alchemical items in one hand.

As of now, the only rule is that you need 1 free hand to Quick Alchemy something.

And then we have:
Quick lobber: allows 2 bombs with 1 hand
Double brew: allows 2 whatever elixirs with 1 hand
Alchemical alacrity: allows 3 whatever elixirs with 1 hand

If the intent is that each item requires a separate free hand (makes sense but it's not how any of the 3 above are written plus it furthers majorly weaken the class) then Alchemical Alacrity, the level 17 class feature that all alchemists get, doesn't even work (you only have 2 hands, you produce 3 items with 1 action)

So... What is?

A) you can hold multiple items in one hand (up to how many?)?
Or
B) all the above need errata and Alchemist needs a new level 17 ability. Also, yet another nerf to Alchemist needing 2 free hands at all times to even use his abilities (at the same time that casters get errata ed to need 0...)?
Or
C) you can only hold multiple while using the above abilities (how does that even make sense)?

[SgtSquirrel]

I think of it in the same way that very experienced bartenders can pour and mix multiple drinks at a time. Your more experienced Alchemist can mix up multiple bombs/elixers while holding the vials/jars with one hand because they have practiced such.

[shroudb]

SgtSquirrel wrote:

I think of it in the same way that very experienced bartenders can pour and mix multiple drinks at a time. Your more experienced Alchemist can mix up multiple bombs/elixers while holding the vials/jars with one hand because they have practiced such.

I don't refute that, it's just not clear enough, especially on the limit of how many you can hold at each time.

Does, as an example, double brew and alchemical alacrity extends that limit?

It would be cool, and make sense, if the abilities expanded the amount you can hold when you get them (to 2 and 3 respectively)

[SgtSquirrel]

shroub wrote:

It would be cool, and make sense, if the abilities expanded the amount you can hold when you get them (to 2 and 3 respectively)

At this point I look at the rule of specific over general.

Quick alchemy specifically says you need one free hand. Double Brew and Alchemical Alacrity both specifically mention using Quick Alchemy.

This says, to me, that when using Quick Alchemy you create one or more items (dependant on which ability you have based on your level) in the one free hand required.

Is this spelled out in no uncertain terms? No. But by the rule system the fact that there is a specific mention of needing only one free hand to use the ability would trump the general rule of one item per hand.

That is how I read the RAI. Though I agree that there is enough room for interpretation that clarification would be ideal.