Fullmetal Alchemist: Episode 45

With secrets steadily coming out in the open, antagonists and protagonists alike prepare for their last act. Out from the shadows, hidden intentions and betrayal may arise. Fragile alliances and loyalties may soon fall apart. And with naive optimism, we can only hope good will prevail.

While the tension slowly reaches its breaking point, everyone prepares for the offensive. Dante entrusts her puppets to retrieve the Philosopher Stone. Edward gathers ammunition for his attack. Mustang informs his superiors of his stance. Even Al veers toward a dangerous path to gain knowledge. The assembly of these key individuals is inevitable.

Lines are clearly drawn yet a select few may go either on either side of the fence most notably, Lust. Despite her amoral actions, she repeatedly shown signs of kindness and sympathy. A glimpse, perhaps, but it’s undoubtedly inside her. With this in mind, I think we’re seeing another casualty of war. To become truly mortal, one must face death.

It was another competent episode for the series with an added bonus for more exposition. However, the Hohenheim’s scenes seemed incomplete. The family montage appeared to be constructed mostly for pure emotional manipulation. Yes, it provided an explanation for his sudden departure from home but I felt cheated, nonetheless. Oh, well. It’s just a minor nitpick.