On the way to Lior, Ed and Al reminisce about the events that lead to them being trapped in their current bodies by breaking the taboo of human transmutation. Meanwhile, Colonel Mustang looks back on the first time he met the Elric brothers.

After learning about what happened to Shou Tucker and his daughter Nina, the Elric brothers begin to question what alchemy really is. Meanwhile, Colonel Mustang and the other State Alchemists track down the serial killer Scar.

While visiting Izumi, their childhood teacher, the Elrics recall the early difficulties of grasping equivalent exchange. They also discover she shares their intimate knowledge of alchemy's greatest taboo.

Hohenheim's visit ends with a grave warning to Pinako, but Ed finds hope among the charred ruins of his childhood. Now more than ever, he has confidence that Al can be returned to his body.

Visions of the past play out by a warming fire as Hohenheim reflects on the unavoidable follies of man: the pain that comes with a loving family; the hidden truths of alchemy; and the roots and results of war.

As Raven tries to corrupt Armstrong, Ed and Al can only wait in their cell. Long ago, their father faced his own captivity, confined to an eternity of regret in an undying body. To escape the pain, he said goodbye.

A sinister voice rings out from the shell of Al's armor, and Ed and Greed find themselves under attack. As the Homunculi use the darkness to their advantage, a face from the past arrives to join the battle.