Alchemist
鍊金術師 · Alchemist — The boundary between science and magic who transforms matter
The alchemist (鍊金術師) is an ancient and medieval scholarly profession pursuing both material transmutation and spiritual perfection. Originating in Alexandria, Egypt in the 3rd century BCE, refined in the Islamic world (8-13th c.), and spreading to Europe. The surface goals were finding the Philosopher's Stone (Lapis Philosophorum) to transmute base metals into gold and the elixir (immortality potion), but the essence was religious-philosophical practice pursuing the universe's secrets and the soul's purification. Newton and Robert Boyle, masters of early modern science, seriously studied alchemy, making it the direct ancestor of chemistry and pharmacy. Historical alchemists include Paracelsus, Nicolas Flamel, and Edward Kelley, and it's a staple motif in modern fantasy through Fullmetal Alchemist and Harry Potter's Hogwarts alchemy classes.
Origin
Directly derived from actual medieval European and Middle Eastern alchemy. The experiments to turn lead into gold gave birth to modern chemistry, and in fantasy it has evolved into a combat class through fusion with magic.
Features
- Material transformation: converting basic materials into magical materials, weapons, and medicines
- Crafting bombs, poisons, smoke grenades, and healing potions
- Creating and enhancing magical weapons and armor
- Philosopher's Stone research: the ultimate goal of creating life and achieving immortality
Usage
The party's supply officer. An all-around support role that indirectly supports combat with various potions and bombs.
Weakness
Low direct combat capability. An environment-dependent type who can do nothing without materials and tools.
