Gary the Alchemist

Author notes

7-3: Children

Xiam

on Oct. 15, 2009

Did I forget to mention that he has a sister? Or did I forget that I mentioned it?

In an attempt to make Gary more sympathetic of a character, I'm giving him some sympathy towards his father. Should've also added that he actually LIKES his dad, he just never has anything to say to him.

I don't think he took it too bitterly, likely being quite interested in other things at the time. Likely just starting with gathering the basics of alchemy - the four elements, transmutation, the existence of the Philosopher's Stone…

I'm sure it was awkward when his parents broke the news.

MOM: "Now, I want you to know, it's not your fault."
GARY (Age 13): "Why would it be my fault? You're the ones with the issues."

A year later, he still probably thinks that. Keep himself out of their disputes, and he'll make it out just fine.

(I'd considered them breaking up when he's 9, but then I remembered, he's only recently gotten into alchemy - the Imp was a sudden accident early in his experiments over this last summer.)

So, this was a pain to do, and would have been done on time if not for the extra crap making it fade into color (which I failed) and dealing with a dog. Hope it was enjoyable though, I wanted to show his transition from the boring world of everybody (including his family) into the his beloved world of chemicals and meditation.