Fullmetal Alchemist: Season 1, Episode 34 - Theory of Avarice (2004)

The episode begins with a flashback to the past, where a young Greed is seen in a lavish mansion, surrounded by wealth and luxury. He is approached by a group of men who are discussing the Philosopher's Stone and its potential. Greed expresses his desire for more power and wealth, indicating his insatiable greed. The scene shifts to the present, where Greed is now a homunculus, and he is in a confrontation with the Elric brothers, Edward and Alphonse.

The Elric brothers are investigating the recent activities of the homunculi and their connection to the Philosopher's Stone. They arrive at a location where they suspect Greed is hiding. As they search, they discuss their past encounters with the homunculi and their motivations. Edward is determined to confront Greed and learn more about the Philosopher's Stone, while Alphonse expresses concern about the dangers they may face.

As they delve deeper into the hideout, they encounter a group of Greed's subordinates, who are fiercely loyal to him. A fight breaks out, and Edward and Alphonse must defend themselves against the attackers. Edward uses his alchemy to create barriers and weapons, while Alphonse relies on his strength and agility. The battle is intense, with both sides exchanging blows and using their abilities strategically.

During the fight, Greed makes his appearance, showcasing his unique abilities. He demonstrates his power by using his ultimate shield, which allows him to absorb attacks and reflect them back. Edward and Alphonse realize they are outmatched and must come up with a new strategy. Greed taunts them, revealing his desire for the Philosopher's Stone and his belief that it will grant him ultimate power.

As the battle continues, Greed's subordinates begin to fall one by one, but Greed remains confident. He engages Edward directly, and they exchange a series of powerful attacks. Edward struggles to keep up with Greed's speed and strength, but he remains determined to uncover the truth about the Philosopher's Stone. Alphonse, meanwhile, tries to protect his brother while also looking for an opportunity to turn the tide of the battle.

In a pivotal moment, Greed reveals his true form, showcasing his homunculus abilities. He becomes more aggressive, and the fight escalates. Edward and Alphonse realize they need to work together more effectively. They combine their alchemical abilities, creating a powerful attack that momentarily stuns Greed. This gives them a brief advantage, allowing them to regroup and strategize.

As they catch their breath, Greed begins to question his own motivations and the nature of his existence as a homunculus. He reflects on his desire for wealth and power, and for the first time, he shows signs of vulnerability. This internal conflict is interrupted when one of his subordinates, who has been watching the fight, decides to intervene, leading to a new confrontation.

The episode shifts focus to the internal struggles of Greed's subordinates, who are torn between their loyalty to Greed and their own desires for freedom. This subplot adds depth to the narrative, as it highlights the themes of greed and the consequences of their choices. The tension builds as the fight resumes, with both sides pushing their limits.

In the climax of the episode, Greed's internal conflict reaches a boiling point. He confronts his subordinates, demanding their loyalty while also questioning the nature of their existence. This moment of introspection is cut short as Edward and Alphonse launch a final, desperate attack. They combine their alchemical powers in a spectacular display, aiming to defeat Greed once and for all.

The battle culminates in a fierce clash, with Greed using his ultimate shield to protect himself. However, Edward and Alphonse's combined effort proves to be too much, and they manage to break through Greed's defenses. In a moment of desperation, Greed attempts to escape, but the Elric brothers are determined to stop him.

As the dust settles, Greed is left vulnerable, and the Elric brothers have the opportunity to confront him about the Philosopher's Stone. Greed, now cornered, reveals crucial information about the homunculi and their connection to the Philosopher's Stone, hinting at a larger conspiracy at play. The episode ends with the Elric brothers contemplating their next move, armed with new knowledge but aware of the dangers that lie ahead.

In the ending of "Theory of Avarice," the episode concludes with the confrontation between the Elric brothers and the homunculi, particularly Greed. After a fierce battle, Greed is ultimately defeated by Father, who absorbs him. The episode ends with the brothers reflecting on their journey and the consequences of their actions, particularly the dangers of greed and the pursuit of power.

As the episode unfolds, it begins with the Elric brothers, Edward and Alphonse, arriving at a desolate location where they encounter Greed, a homunculus who embodies the sin of avarice. Greed, with his desire for power and immortality, is in the midst of a conflict with Father, the creator of the homunculi. The atmosphere is tense, filled with the weight of Greed's ambitions and the brothers' determination to stop him.

The scene shifts to a confrontation where Greed reveals his true nature, showcasing his ability to manipulate his body into a hardened form, making him a formidable opponent. Edward and Alphonse engage in a fierce battle against Greed, showcasing their alchemical skills and teamwork. The fight is intense, with the brothers pushing their limits, fueled by their desire to protect each other and their quest for redemption.

As the battle progresses, Greed's motivations are explored. He expresses a longing for companionship and a sense of belonging, which contrasts sharply with his ruthless nature. This internal conflict becomes evident as he grapples with his identity and the consequences of his actions. The emotional stakes rise as the brothers attempt to reach out to Greed, trying to appeal to the remnants of humanity within him.

However, the tide of the battle shifts when Father intervenes. He reveals his true power and intentions, absorbing Greed and effectively ending his existence. The moment is heavy with loss, as Greed's final moments reflect a fleeting glimpse of vulnerability and a desire for connection, leaving the brothers to grapple with the implications of their fight.

In the aftermath, Edward and Alphonse are left to reflect on the events that transpired. They are haunted by the realization of how greed can corrupt and destroy, not just individuals but entire lives. The brothers share a moment of introspection, acknowledging the dangers of their own desires and the lengths they are willing to go to achieve their goals.

The episode concludes with a somber tone, emphasizing the themes of sacrifice, the consequences of ambition, and the importance of human connection. Edward and Alphonse, though battered and weary, reaffirm their bond as brothers, vowing to continue their journey despite the challenges that lie ahead. Their fate remains intertwined, driven by their shared quest for redemption and understanding in a world fraught with moral complexities.

In "Theory of Avarice," the 34th episode of 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, which centers on themes of greed, the consequences of ambition, and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters. The story wraps up with the events and revelations presented in the main episode, leaving no further scenes or teasers after the credits.

In 'Theory of Avarice', the Philosopher's Stone is central to the plot as it represents the ultimate goal for many characters, including the Elric brothers. The episode delves into the dark truths behind the stone, revealing that it is created from the lives of others, which raises moral questions about the sacrifices made for power.

Greed's character is explored deeply in this episode as he grapples with his desire for more than just material wealth. His interactions with the Elric brothers and his own subordinates reveal his internal conflict between his avarice and a longing for genuine connection, showcasing a more vulnerable side to his otherwise ruthless persona.

Father Cornello serves as a pivotal antagonist in 'Theory of Avarice'. His manipulation of the townspeople and his use of the Philosopher's Stone to create false miracles highlight the dangers of blind faith and the exploitation of power. His character embodies the theme of corruption that arises from greed.

Edward and Alphonse are initially shocked and horrified by the truth behind the Philosopher's Stone. Their emotional turmoil is palpable as they confront the reality that their pursuit of the stone is tied to the suffering of others. This revelation deepens their resolve to find an alternative way to achieve their goals without sacrificing lives.

The confrontation between the Elric brothers and Greed culminates in a tense battle where Edward and Alphonse must confront not only Greed's physical strength but also the philosophical implications of their desires. The outcome leaves Greed momentarily defeated, but it also sets the stage for his continued evolution as a character, hinting at the complexities of his motivations.

"Fullmetal Alchemist" episode 34, titled "Theory of Avarice," contains several themes and scenes that may be considered objectionable or upsetting for children or sensitive viewers. Here are some aspects to consider:

1. Violence and Gore: The episode features scenes of violence, including battles and injuries that may be graphic or intense for younger viewers.

2. Death and Loss: Characters experience significant loss and confront the concept of death, which can be emotionally heavy and distressing.

3. Moral Ambiguity: The episode explores complex themes of greed, sacrifice, and the consequences of one's actions, which may be difficult for younger audiences to fully understand.

4. Dark Themes: The overarching themes of avarice and the lengths to which individuals will go for power can be unsettling and may provoke anxiety or fear.

5. Emotional Turmoil: Characters display deep emotional struggles, including despair and regret, which may resonate strongly with sensitive viewers.

These elements contribute to a narrative that, while rich and engaging, may not be suitable for all children or those who are particularly sensitive to such themes.