Fullmetal Alchemist: Season 1, Episode 16 - That Which Is Lost (2004)

The episode begins with Edward and Alphonse Elric traveling to the city of Liore, where they are investigating reports of a cult led by a man named Father Cornello. As they arrive, they notice the city is filled with fervent followers who believe in the power of alchemy, which Cornello claims to possess. The brothers are skeptical and decide to investigate further.

They soon encounter a young woman named Rose, who is deeply devoted to Cornello and believes he can bring back her deceased boyfriend. Edward and Alphonse learn that Cornello is using a Philosopher's Stone to perform miracles, which piques their interest, as they are searching for a way to restore their bodies after their failed human transmutation.

The brothers confront Cornello in his temple, where he demonstrates his alchemical abilities by creating a statue of a dog. Edward challenges him, revealing that he knows the truth about the Philosopher's Stone. Cornello, feeling threatened, uses the stone to attack Edward, but Edward manages to dodge the attack. A fight ensues, showcasing Edward's agility and combat skills as he counters Cornello's alchemical assaults.

During the confrontation, Alphonse is caught off guard and is momentarily incapacitated. Edward takes this opportunity to use his own alchemy to counter Cornello's attacks, ultimately destroying the statue and revealing the truth about the Philosopher's Stone. The cultists begin to doubt Cornello's powers as Edward exposes the stone's true nature, which is derived from human lives.

As the fight escalates, Cornello becomes desperate and attempts to use the stone to summon a monstrous creature. Edward and Alphonse work together to stop him, with Edward using his quick thinking and Alphonse providing support. They manage to defeat Cornello, who is left powerless and exposed in front of his followers.

After the battle, the cultists begin to turn against Cornello, realizing they have been deceived. Rose, heartbroken by the revelation that Cornello cannot bring back the dead, confronts him, expressing her anger and disappointment. Edward and Alphonse try to comfort her, explaining the dangers of seeking to bring back the dead through alchemy.

The episode concludes with the brothers leaving Liore, reflecting on the events that transpired. They discuss the implications of the Philosopher's Stone and the moral dilemmas surrounding its use. Edward expresses his determination to continue their quest for knowledge and to find a way to restore their bodies without resorting to unethical means. Alphonse supports his brother, and they set off on their journey, ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead.

In the ending of "That Which Is Lost," Edward and Alphonse Elric confront the consequences of their past actions as they seek to understand the nature of loss and sacrifice. They face the reality of their choices and the impact of their quest for knowledge and power. The episode concludes with a sense of unresolved tension as they continue their journey, burdened by the weight of their experiences.

As the episode unfolds, the scene opens with Edward and Alphonse Elric in a desolate area, reflecting on their journey and the losses they have endured. They are haunted by the memories of their mother and the tragic events that led them to pursue alchemy in the first place. The brothers are determined to find a way to restore what they have lost, but they are also aware of the dangers that come with their ambitions.

The narrative shifts to a confrontation with a group of soldiers who are investigating the mysterious occurrences in the area. Edward, with his characteristic bravado, stands firm against the soldiers, showcasing his determination to protect his brother and their shared goals. Alphonse, though physically imposing in his armored form, reveals his vulnerability as he grapples with the emotional weight of their quest.

As the brothers navigate their challenges, they encounter a young girl who has also experienced loss. Her story resonates deeply with Edward and Alphonse, reminding them of their own struggles. This encounter serves as a poignant moment of connection, highlighting the theme of shared suffering and the search for redemption.

The climax of the episode occurs when the brothers are faced with a moral dilemma that tests their resolve. They must decide whether to pursue a path that could lead to greater power at the cost of further loss. Edward's internal conflict is palpable as he weighs the potential consequences of their actions against the desire to reclaim what they have lost.

In the final scenes, the brothers make a choice that reflects their growth and understanding of the true nature of sacrifice. They acknowledge that some things cannot be restored and that their journey is not just about regaining what was lost but also about learning to live with their past. The episode closes with Edward and Alphonse continuing their journey, their bond strengthened by their experiences, yet burdened by the knowledge of the sacrifices they must make along the way.

As the screen fades to black, the audience is left with a sense of hope intertwined with the reality of loss, encapsulating the essence of the Elric brothers' journey and the overarching themes of the series.

In the episode "That Which Is Lost" from Fullmetal Alchemist, there is no post-credit scene. The episode concludes without any additional content after the credits roll. The focus remains on the main narrative and character developments throughout the episode, particularly the emotional struggles of the Elric brothers and their quest for redemption.

In this episode, the Elric brothers, Edward and Alphonse, reflect on their past, particularly the tragic loss of their mother, Trisha Elric. They recall how they attempted to bring her back to life using alchemy, which ultimately led to disastrous consequences.

Scar confronts the Elric brothers during their investigation into the Philosopher's Stone. He is driven by a desire for revenge against State Alchemists, whom he blames for the destruction of his people. His intense hatred and determination create a tense atmosphere as he challenges Edward and Alphonse.

The Philosopher's Stone is a central element in this episode, as it represents both hope and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters. Edward and Alphonse seek it to restore their bodies after their failed alchemical experiment, while Scar views it as a tool of oppression used by State Alchemists.

Alphonse is deeply affected by Scar's ideology, which promotes hatred and revenge against alchemists. He struggles with the moral implications of their quest for the Philosopher's Stone and the consequences of their past actions, showcasing his compassionate nature and desire for understanding.

Edward grapples with guilt and regret over the loss of his mother and the consequences of their attempt to resurrect her. This internal conflict is highlighted as he reflects on the pain caused by their actions, driving his determination to find a way to restore what was lost.

In "That Which Is Lost," several scenes and themes may be considered potentially objectionable or upsetting for children or sensitive viewers:

1. Death and Loss: The episode deals with themes of death and the emotional impact of losing loved ones, which may be distressing for younger audiences.

2. Grief and Mourning: Characters express deep sorrow and regret over their past actions and the loss of family members, showcasing intense emotional moments.

3. Violence: There are instances of violence, including battles and confrontations that may be intense for some viewers.

4. Moral Dilemmas: The episode explores complex moral questions about sacrifice and the consequences of one's actions, which may be difficult for younger viewers to fully understand.

5. Dark Themes: The overarching themes of the series include the consequences of human ambition and the pursuit of forbidden knowledge, which can be heavy and thought-provoking.

These elements contribute to a narrative that, while rich and engaging, may not be suitable for all children or sensitive individuals.