Alchemy

Alchemy is one of the many courses taught at Brakebills University.

"Always pay close attention to the alloys. Um, iron has a– has a neutral quality, whereas silver and gold have the effect of, uh, magnifying the effects of other components of the alloy and I would caution you to test for this each time before, uh– before using a knife for, uh, ritual work because, um– a spell can alter the metal at, uh– at a quantum level."

―Van der Weghe

Alchemy is the study of the composition, structure, and magical properties of the elements.

History

"Every alchemist in history is a lying, cheating illusionist. They turn lead into gold. It turns right back in a day."

―Eliot Waugh

Alchemists throughout history have attempted to transmute base metals into gold, but none were ever successful. Most documented cases were from Illusionists, who would turn lead into gold, only for it to turn back a day later.

The subject is taught at Brakebills University as a required course for First-year students. Professor Van der Weghe taught the course prior to his death.