How can mages supply themselves with magic? [closed]

Question

Mages must ingest a special magic liquid before using magic. Most mages use jars, but opening a jar takes time which is not something close combat mages have. How can a device that allows them to drink this liquid at will be designed in a robust and unburdensome fashion? The tech level is early industrial revolution. This device should operate without the use of magic, should NOT require the invention of plastic to take place, and shouldn't be too large to easily wear without discomfort.

Answer 1

An athlete's hydration bladder.

(Sometimes referred to as a "Platypus")

You could absolutely make something like this without plastic. The bladder itself can be a standard waterskin.

The drinking tube is slightly more complicated, but you've got options. Rubber's been around for a couple hundred years. If you want to get really hardcore, use metal, either with some cunning joints, or as a single "fitted" piece designed specifically for the mage who uses it. Clay/fired pottery is another option and can be surprisingly strong.

Answer 2

The answer is Jello Shots

(As any frat bro would tell you, there are a remarkable number of problems solvable with jello shots)

The parallel needs of a combat mage and one of my beloved party-going frat brothers are remarkably similar:

• Must have easy availability for critical fluids
• Needs hands free for casting (spells / ping pong balls, into meatbags and solo cups respectively
• Wants to avoid spillage in chaotic environments
• Requires quick, efficient delivery method
• Storage must be portable and robust
• The ability to pre-prep large amounts of doses the night before a rager is key

Gelatinizing agents have been used for a long time. Gelatin is fortunately already appropriate for the early industrial era, but I might prefer agar or carrageenan, since they're less likely to get sloppy on a hot day. Large batches of the potion would be prepared in advance, and then poured into waxed paper cartridges, or small wax bottles, then left to cool over night.

Creative commons

The advantages are numerous:

• No spillage during combat movements, or if dropped, unlike liquid potions
• One handed consumption
• No glass containers to break
• Waxed paper cartridges are lightweight and disposable
• Solid wax cartridges are durable and

A combat mage could carry their "power shots" in a leather bandolier across their chest, much like how one of my noble frat brethren might wear a beer bandolier to a tailgate. Simply grab, tear, squeeze, and you're powered up for your next spell. Nicer bandoliers might have metal tubes that the cartridges slip into, for greater protection.

If you want a bonus worldbuilding detail, perhaps the gelatin also helps moderate the magic absorption rate - preventing the magical equivalent of a sugar crash that might come from chugging straight potion. Just as the modern party-goer knows that jello shots hit different than straight liquor, the combat mage appreciates a slow and sustained release of magical energy.

Answer 3

A bandolier equipped with diminutive, robust glass or metal tubes, each containing the elixir of magic, would be an effective solution. Each tube could be fitted with a slender metal cap that snaps open upon pressing. Mages could swiftly grasp one, open it in a single motion, and consume the elixir without disrupting their momentum. This design is both ingenious and aligns seamlessly with the early industrial aesthetic.