Are the alchemist bombs spontaneous? I realize he has to prepare them but does he have to prepare so many regular bombs, and so many force bombs(assuming he has the discovery), or does he just prepare so many bombs and choose what type they are on the fly?
yes, they are spontaneous, he makes them when he needs them. he in no way prepares them. every morning he makes the containers for them but that is all, and even that is represented in the same way a sorcerer meditates for a little to be ready to cast his spells.
Since it says "Creating a bomb requires a move-equivalent action that provokes an attack of opportunity as the alchemist infuses the catalyst vial with magical energy." I've been assuming that you can decide to make a bomb special on the turn you juice it up for throwing.
Since it says "Creating a bomb requires a move-equivalent action that provokes an attack of opportunity as the alchemist infuses the catalyst vial with magical energy." I've been assuming that you can decide to make a bomb special on the turn you juice it up for throwing.Doesn't it say something to the effect that you make up vials of normally inert material that are made explosive when you infuse some of your magical aura into them?
You create the catalyst vials at any point, so normally at the start of the day. Once you have the catalyst you "infuses the catalyst vial with magical energy." The infusing sets what type of bomb it is and it is a move-equivalent action.