thoughtformed | (no subject)

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I believe my initial assessment of this island may have been rushed. Perhaps it isn't as dull as I'd feared.

Alchemists?

Oh, do you not have alchemists where you're from? How do I explain it... Alchemists are scientists who understand matter. They understand its components, and can use science to deconstruct and reconstruct matter, taking into account the laws of equivalent exchange. I never did understand all of it... I can memorize all sorts of written things, but I can't keep all the diagrams straight.

Yes, I'm familiar with the term, but I don't believe we've had true alchemists in some time.

Well, of course, there are laws to govern that sort of thing. You can't just go around making money and get away with it. But yes! Our whole military is based around the state alchemists!

A fascinating concept.

The few alchemists that I have met have been very nice people! Military, of course, so there are always certain things they aren't allowed to talk about, but very dedicated and loyal. But they can have devastating effect, if they need to... Colonel Mustang just snaps his fingers and sets something on fire.

Such abilities often come with a dark side.

Some... do let the power go to their heads. But isn't that history? There seem to always be those who get ahead of themselves and do something horrible. Otherwise we wouldn't have crime, or dictatorships, I think.

The alchemists that I've met personally were all very strong-minded, and were good leaders, but they didn't show any signs of going mad or maniacal, if that helps...

Of course. And the conflict is as necessary as the peace.

Simply because one chooses to use his abilities for destruction by no means indicates others will follow suit. Unfortunately, that single individual too often becomes the symbol for the entire group.

Thinking about it... I don't believe the head of the State Military is an alchemist. I know he's a very charismatic man, and a great leader and strategist, but I don't think I've ever heard a first-hand story of him using alchemy!

But yes... there are places in the country where people are afraid of alchemists because they've heard a few stories about some of those who tried to use their force to rise to power.

Not everyone is willing to discover the truth for themselves. Another's word is too often considered an adequate resource.

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