Answer:
I fly yet I have no wings. I cry yet I have no eyes. Darkness follows me. Lower light I never see.
I was was before was was was.
If I drink I die. If I eat I am fine. What am I?
I am of several different kinds, but the one you pick doesn't do its job. What am I?
In wealth I abound; in water I stand; as a fencer I'm valued all over the land; at Venice I'm famous; by farmers I'm prized; respected by law yet huntsmen despised; consternation and ruin ensue when I break; And the beasts of the forest advantage won't take.
Though not a plant, has leaves. Though not a beast, has spine. Though many wouldn't need this thing, It's more valuable than wine.