@Hento: Elenhel & co. are companions/armor bearers, not partners, so the point about Amelie's sexuality is moot.
As for Alchemy, I do find it rather useless. I wouldn't pick it with a mage, still less with the other two classes. You simply don't need (to upgrade) that many different spells that would justify taking this skill. I did take it in TL once or twice, but Neatness in AP eliminates the need for Alchemy completely in my opinion.
@DGD: Wasn't aware armageddon required a target, as I've never used it myself.
Come to think of it, it doesn't really make sense, but anyway I'll remember that the next I fight the peasant hero in Verona.