Peach Girl

To set the record straight, I wasn't even interested in this anime when it was still showing. What changed my mind was Kiuchi Hidenobu who is the voice actor of Touji. Oh well, to cut the story short, I was doing a search of the works he appeared in and I happened to see this title. And when I checked out the storyline and some reviews, my interest was aroused so I decided to see this for myself. In actual fact, my main motive was to hear Kiuchi-san's voice again ever since he made me swoon with Oshitari Yuushi and I kind of liked him as Tenma in Monster. ^__^

Basically, the story is about this senior high school girl, Adachi Momo who is tanned and her hair bleached. On the surface, she seems like a very wild girl but she looks like this as she was previously from the swimming team in junior high. She has been secretly in love with her ex-junior high schoolmate Toujigamori Kazuya (Touji) but has never told him about it. In addition, she heard from her friend that Touji doesn't like tanned girls so Adachi is trying her very best to make herself fairer so that she can confess to Touji about her feelings when the time comes. However, she has a classmate, Kashiwagi Sae who loves to copy her and snatch her favourite things. To prevent Sae from laying hands on Touji, she lies to Sae that she likes Okayasu Kairi who is a popular playboy in school and this marks the beginning of her turbulent friendship and relationship with Okayasu. Touji overhears that Adachi likes him and tells her that he likes her too so they start dating. Sae decides to spoil Adachi's happiness and drives a wedge between her and Touji. Things get really bad and they are even on the edge of a breakup. Touji manages to see through Sae's true colours through Okayasu and makes up with Adachi. Nevertheless, things do not go well as Sae is yet again jealous about Adachi. She sets a trap which she took compromising photos of Adachi and another guy and threatens Touji to break up with Adachi or she will leak the photos to the press. Touji has no choice but to do Sae's bidding and hurts Adachi badly. Through the pain, Okayasu supports Adachi through it and they even start dating. However, Adachi realises that she is only second-best in Okayasu's heart since he's in love with their school's medical teacher, Misao. Even though she tries to convince herself that she is content with this position as long as she can be with Okayasu, she is unable to bear it when he does not give a clear indication of his feelings and breaks his promise again. Under such circumstances, Touji and Adachi make up again much to Okayasu's shock when he finally realises how important Adachi means to him. However, Adachi shows no signs of returning to him but her stand is shaken when she realises that Okayasu did mean to fulfil his promise. As such, she is torn between Touji and Okayasu which means she has to make a choice between them.

Talking about the characters, let me discuss the guys first. Personally, I like Touji better and it's not really because Kiuchi-san is the voice actor. It's just that I find him more of my type and a very "otoko-mae" type of person. Besides, I like his looks better i.e. cool and yet very kind and caring. However, the only thing which I don't like about him would be his handling of the incident concerning Sae's blackmail. Well, I do understand his kind intentions about protecting Adachi and bearing the pain all by himself but when the cover was blown, it made Adachi rather guilty and it could have formed part of the reason why Adachi went back to him after Okayasu failed to make it for their promise. If I was in that situation, I would have preferred that both of us go through this together instead of going through such a painful experience. What if Touji had chosen to brave through this with Adachi instead of listening to Sae? This might not have brought about Adachi falling in love with Okayasu later. As for Okayasu, I just don't feel too secure with such a guy. He keeps too many things to himself, too distrusting and very unclear about what he wants to do. He only realises a lot of things when it's too late to make amends and I can't imagine trying to do a lot of guesswork in a relationship. It's simply too tiring. In addition, he seems too frivolous (although his real nature is not really like that) for my liking. With regards to Adachi's final choice, all I can say that it's logical but not really what I had wished for. And it's evident whom I was rooting for. Somehow, I felt that Adachi and Touji had love between them but Adachi and Okayasu seem to have begun on the basis of sympathy and being the substitute for each other's true loves. That is why I don't really like the idea of Adachi professing how much she loves Okayasu when it's evident that Touji still means a lot to her.

For the girls, Adachi is a kind person especially for her repeated attempts to help Sae despite the latter being a bitch but I was rather sick of her going to and fro in her relationships and moping around too much. I know there are 2 wonderful guys in front of her and it's hard to choose but by this changing attitude, it would have hurt a lot of people. As for Sae, I had the urge to strangle her when she kept irritating people with her antics especially when she forced Touji to break up with Adachi. Although she became a better person in the end after going through a relationship with Okayasu's playboy elder brother, Ryo, I really can't say that I like her.

On the whole, this anime is quite entertaining and I finished it in 2 days. However, I wouldn't say that this ranks in my all-time Top 10 favourite since I thought that the to-and-fro relationship was kind of hard to accept. Well, the biggest reward of watching this anime is getting to "know" Touji and hear Kiuchi's voice again... ^__^

Hagane no Renkin Jutsushi (Fullmetal Alchemist) Ep 14 - Houkai no Migite (The destructive right hand)

In the city of Rioru, the millitary is there to suppress the chaos created by the citizens who are at odds with one another due to the fake priest's words. In actual fact, the fake priest is an imposter by Envy and she had deliberately done this to create trouble in the city. The millitary had come to stop the rebels but ends up aggravating the situation...

Envy tells Lust that the serial killer of the national alchemists (Scar) has moved to East City since most of the national alchemists have moved there. Lust remarks that both Mustang and Ed will be the biggest obstacles for them to achieve their goal and they would have to beware of them.

Meanwhile, Hughes tells Mustang about Scar being the serial killer and he has killed 9 alchemists to date not counting innocent witnesses. In addition, all victims were killed as if an internal explosion had happened within their bodies. Mustang remarks that this is the main reason why the national alchemists and King Bradley had come to East City since Mustang has been stationed here from 3 years ago and that it would be unlikely for Scar to follow them to the countryside. Just then, Hughes receives a phonecall that a new victim has been found at the East City train station, signifying that Scar is somewhere nearby.

Ed and Al head to the village of Hydo after Mustang's tip-off so as to find out more on Kenja no Ishi. As they walk around the village, they hear rave reviews about Marcoh who has changed his name to Mauroh as a wonderful doctor who has helped the villagers in many ways. However, they cannot understand why he is doing this and not keeping a low profile since the millitary may find him easily. Before they meet Marcoh, they happen to see Alex Louis Armstrong and hide from him because they are convinced that they are being followed by him at the orders of the millitary.

Ed and Al finally get to meet Marcoh but he gets panicky at the sight of them and assumes that they are sent by the millitary to take him back or to seize the research date of Kenja no Ishi. Marcoh seems very afraid to see them and prepares to shoot them. Al blocks Ed from the gun and this convinces him that they do not mean any harm.

Marcoh tells Ed and Al that he had stolen the research data after he ran away during the Isbal internal war. Marcoh says that he feels guilty at causing so many deaths and is now a doctor to help the people so as to make amends. He refuses to let Ed and Al see his research data but Ed manages to find the crystallized version of the red water in Zenotime. However, Grand barges in with his men at that time and seizes the data and Marcoh with him. He refuses to let Ed and Al read the data and brings Marcoh away.

Ed decides to save Marcoh from Grand but Scar appears at this time. He kills Grand right before Ed and Marcoh and turns his attention towards them next. However, Ed does not want to wait for his death in this matter and drags Marcoh away with him. Al manages to pull Ed and Marcoh to safety but Scar soon catches up with them. Just as Ed is about to be killed, Al blocks the attack for Ed who is unable to understand why Scar is after the lives of national alchemists. Scar explains that he will kill all national alchemists who make use of this technique to disrupt nature for the millitary's selfish goals.

Armstrong comes to save Ed, Al and Marcoh in the nick of the time and they run away while Armstrong deals with Scar. Ed returns the crystal of the red water so that Marcoh can continue treating people and lets him go...

The OP and ED has been changed. Graphics-wise, I see a lot of Winry which means that she's probably going to appear a lot from now on. Anyway, the OP "Ready Steady Go" by L'arc en Ciel is quite nice especially the chorus section which is very catchy. As for the ED "Tobira no Mukou" by Yellow Generation, I think it sounds better than the previous ED by Kitase Nana.

It seems like Scar is going to remain Ed's enemy for some time given that he hates national alchemists a lot. And as we dig further into his past and the reason for his hatred, things might change since I don't think Scar is going to remain a rival for long. It seems like people like Lust, Wrath, Glutton and Greed (Suwabe Junichi's character!!) would be the more difficult and troublesome villians to deal with.

Suzuka Ep 08: Kyori (Distance)

Yamato joins the athletics team much to the surprise of Asahina, Miyamoto, Hattori and Honoka. However, Asahina does not think too highly of Yamato who is intending to take part in the 100m race.

Yamato is surprised at how tough the training is and Asahina scolds him for being a burden to the athletics team. Yamato meets Hashiba Miki who is also a sprinter and a friend of Asahina. When Yamato sees how good Asahina is, he feels more admiration for her.

Yamato is so tired that he can't even walk home. When he sees Asahina practising alone after the end of training, Miki tells Yamato about Asahina's strengths as an athlete. Yamato feels the distance between them the more he tries to get close to Asahina. Hattori and Honoka come to help Yamato home and all he could think of is how good Asahina is.

As time goes by, Yamato starts to get used to the tough training but Honoka feels sorry for him whenever she comes to see him after school. Hattori suggests that Honoka can try to join the athletics team if she wants to get close to Yamato. However, Honoka is not too good at sports and feels sad that she cannot be an athlete.

On her way home, Honoka meets Yuka who brings her to the public bath and accidentally blurts out that Yamato is in love with Asahina. Honoka is stunned but decides not to give up as she is serious about Yamato and wants to spend more time with him.

Honoka joins the athletics team as a manager in the hope of being near Yamato. At the sight of Honoka, Asahina gets irritated and ignores Yamato and Honoka. Contrary to Honoka's expectations, she has so much work to do and can't spend a lot of time with Yamato. Asahina tells Yamato to be more serious when she sees Miki trying to give Yamato a massage as he is suffering from muscle ache. Miki tells Asahina to be less harsh on Yamato as he is working hard.

This makes Yamato more determined to work hard and prove himself to Asahina who keeps convincing herself that his enthusiasm won't last. Asahina gets frustrated with him but starts to remember the happy times they have spent together...

The next episode shows Asahina and Yamato quarrelling again. Well, it's time Asahina snapped out of her irritated mood and stop treating Yamato like dirt. And it seems that we might find out who that guy in the photo is. Asahina would probably realise Yamato's importance only when he gets together with Honoka...Wouldn't that be too late? Honoka is more frank when it comes to getting what she wants as compared to Asahina and I find myself rooting for her instead as the anime progresses.

Gankutsuou Ep 4 - Haha no Himitsu (My mother's secret)

Albert introduces the Count to his parents and his mother, Mercedes is visibly shaken upon seeing the Count. Albert's father, General Montcerf warmly welcomes the Count and invites him for dinner.

However, during the meal, Mercedes realises that the Count has not been touching the food and asks if dinner is not to his liking. The Count simply attributes this as a lack of appetite but drinks the seafood soup prepared by Mercedes instead. He remarks that this is a nostalgic flavour and asks her whether she is from Marseilles. However, General Montcerf is visibly unhappy at the mention of the place and says that Mercedes has nothing to do with such a lowly place.

After dinner, the Count and Mercedes meet at the terrace and start to chat. Mercedes remarks that in the Eastern Universe, people who share bread and salt under one roof will be friends forever and remarks that she hopes they will be like that since the Count has had a meal at her place. However, the Count rebukes that this is Paris where nobody shares bread and salt. In addition, there is no such thing as forever friends which makes Mercedes stunned. Unknown to them, Beppo and Albert are looking on from afar and Beppo says that Mercedes is visibly drawn to the Count and wonders if they are having an affair. Albert tells Beppo to stop spouting nonsense and walks away.

After sending the Count off, Albert has tea with his parents. Mercedes tells him to treat the Count with respect and not associate too closely with him. Later that night, Albert sees Mercedes holding a man's photo while in a daze and Beppo's words about the fact that Mercedes is in love with someone else other than his father makes Albert very uncomfortable.

The next morning, Albert wakes up to find Eugenie at his house and thinks that she is looking for him. However, Eugenie is waiting for Mercedes to go shopping. Albert walks past Mercedes' room and sees Beppo trying on his mother's jewellery. Beppo draws Albert's attention to the locked drawer and tells him that she can be of help if he wants since she's an expert at picking locks.

Albert prepares to go to the Count's house with Franz, Maximillian and Bauchean, dressed as a pirate because Beppo said he was too plain with his original suit. The four are surprised to see the Count living in an ordinary apartment but while they are waiting for the Count at the living room, they feel the ground sinking and reach a hall which is made of gold. They finally get to see the Count and Albert is especially stunned when he sees the scenery in his mother's painting which makes him more convinced that there is something between the Count and Mercedes. The Count gives Albert a sword as his companion for his journey from now on...

Albert is simply too easily swayed by other people especially Beppo who keeps trying to fan Albert's suspicion towards Mercedes' feelings towards the Count. He should learn to be more independent and less rash when it comes to his association with people.

From the next episode's trailer, the title is "Do you love your fiancee?" Is this directed at Albert only or does this include Franz too? It's obvious that Albert doesn't seem too attracted to Eugenie unlike what he feels towards Beppo and Franz doesn't seem to be that close to Valentine too. Well, we'll see from the next episode then.

Yakitate Japan Ep 43

The semi-finals against the French team is approaching the time limit and Azuma is still nowhere in sight. Kawachi and Suwabara are getting panicky and worried over whether they would win this round in the absence of Azuma.

Kaiser's bread made from blueberries overwhelms Pierro who is full of praise. He ignores Kawachi's creation and rejects Suwabara's entry since a driver would not want to eat a bread with alcohol before a race. In addition, the shape of the bread in the form of a turtle is not a good sign when it comes to races where speed is of the essence.

Just then, Azuma finally arrives at the contest venue and shows his creation which is a black bread in the shape of a spiral. However, Pierro refuses to accept this as a valid entry since Azuma did not make the bread here and nobody can even prove whether this was done during the contest time or if this was even made by Azuma himself.

Just then, the King comes and asks Pierro to judge Azuma's entry because he was the one who caused Azuma to be late. As such, Pierro tries it and decides that Azuma's bread is superior to the Kaiser brothers'. Even the eldest brother, Grant admits that they have lost and leaves the contest venue dejectedly.

Kawachi seems to be in a sorry state. Not only was his creation being ignored and forgotten by everyone, he got his head shaved by Pierro when he got carried away after tasting the bread. He seems to be the clown and keeps getting ridiculed throughout the whole series. As for Suwabara, I was pretty concerned last week when Grant Kaiser said that his bread has a weak point and I thought it has to do with the red wine he used. True enough, it is the case but I never thought of the turtle as a bad omen for racers. ^__^

As for Azuma, he's always the hero who saves the day. That's really expected and we'll see how he works his magic in the next episode which is 2 weeks later. Well, that's the finals against the Americans and I know for sure he's going to win. The thing is whether the anime is going to continue after the Monaco Cup arc.

Monster Ep 61 - Kioku no Tobira (The door of memories)

Nina and Dieter continue to stay in Prague so that she can regain her memories of what happened to her mother, Johan and herself when they were staying there. However, she can only see flashbacks of the past and starts to realise that something is not quite right with her memories especially the part when she saw someone looking exactly like her welcoming herself home. Dieter screams at Nina and this breaks her train of thoughts just in time before she gets overcomed by fear. He tells Nina that she doesn't have to remember the past since painful memories should be left behind. Like what Tenma told him, all he has to do is to make good memories and forget the bad ones. He tells Nina that they should return to Munich and look for Dr Reichwein instead of staying in Prague.

Meanwhile in Prague, Vardeman comes to the police station and asks to take part in the interview of the 5 people who used to attend the reading sessions by Franz Bonaparta. He is told that he can only listen and not raise questions. Surprisingly, the detective in charge of this charge is Suk and he doesn't like the fact that Vardeman keeps asking questions despite his objections. The people being interviewed seem to remember very little about their pasts and what happened in that mansion of red roses. In addition, they are not very emotional people and has the same expression even when talking about sad happenings.

Suk flares up at Vardeman and tells him to take note of what is required of him. Vardeman reveals that they both have personal agendas with regards to this case. Suk wants to clear his name after being framed for having links to the former Czechoslovakia secret police and Vardeman wants to prove whether his father was indeed involved in the brainwashing experiments conducted by Franz Bonaparta at the mansion. One of the interviewees reveal that Vardeman's father told the kids to run away from the mansion and said that there were better things at the other end of the rainbow which seems to suggest that he wasn't supportive or directly involved in those experiments.

Nina and Dieter return to Munich to stay with Dr Reichwein but she is constantly in a daze. She also refuses to talk about what happened in Prague. Dr Reichwein praises Dieter for getting Nina to return and stop trying to retrieve her memories. Karl and Lotte come to visit them which makes Nina very happy.

Dr Reichwein receives a letter from Tenma who tells him that Eva is coming to seek help from him. He also mentions that he is going to end this case soon. Nina asks Karl to find out where Tenma sent the letter from. In addition, Nina tells Dr Reichwein that it is time for her to remember the past and says that she will not regret whatever happens by then.

Dr Reichwein arranges for Dr Gillen to conduct a hynopsis on Nina so that she can remember the past. Nina warns Dr Gillen that he might hear something horrifying later and tells him to be mentally prepared. Under hynopsis, Nina reveals that her father used to be a millitary personnel with the government but was murdered according to what her mother said. However, Nina had never seen him before. In addition, Nina's mother was from the anti-government movement thus had to hide with her kids in the apartment bearing "The Three Frogs" signboard. Just at this time, Karl comes to Dr Reichwein, Dieter and Lotte and reveals that Tenma sent the letter from Frankfurt.

At this moment, Nina seems to remember everything but simply refuses to reveal who she really is. She gets violent when probed by Dr Gillen but he manages to save himself from being strangled to death in time. No doubt Nina had refused to speak during hynopsis, she has managed to remember everything after this session.

2 days later, Nina leaves Dr Reichwein's place without a word and heads to Frankfurt to look for Johan so that she can end everything and save Tenma...

What an exciting episode! However, before we can get to the bottom of things, there is a cliffhanger yet again. Nevertheless, I have some opinions on some things shown in this episode:

The person who was at the mansion of red roses might not be Johan. It seems like Nina was the one who actually went through the experience of seeing those dead bodies, being welcomed home by someone who was dressed exactly like her (most probably Johan) and ran away from the mansion through the thorny rose bushes (especially when they showed someone with long hair and a dress). I have a hunch that Nina got confused and thought that Johan was being brought to that mansion. This is also the same when she saw someone welcoming her home but all along, she kept saying that she was the one who was waiting at home for Johan to come home. And that evil looking girl waiting at home seems more like Johan to me. Or was Nina not that innocent and kind in the past? However, it doesn't seem logical in another way since Johan knew a lot about that mansion and even had a motive to burn it. If he had never been there, his familiarity with the place seems unbelievable.

So what exactly does Nina know? Who is she? These answers could prove crucial to explain why Johan is doing all these and what he is planning to achieve. Come to think of it, Nina looks more and more like Johan especially in this episode. I never noticed this so much in other episodes but since there were lots of close-up shots of her, it suddenly dawned on me how much she looks like Johan especially those scenes when she was in anguish over her recovered memories.

Another surprise was the return of Suk. I thought I would never see him again and now, he's involved in checking the case of the mansion with Vardeman. Seems like he has recovered and returned to work. However, it seems like he has changed quite a bit after that case and being deceived by the fake Anna posed by Johan. And it seems like Vardeman's dad wasn't too supportive of the experiments conducted by Franz Bonaparta when he even instigated the kids to run away. Nina/Johan could be one of those who heard his words and followed his instruction. Anyway, it seems like the duo can turn up more facts from the interviews of those who used to attend the reading sessions.

Where is Runge? After he found Franz Bonaparta's son, there should be an explanation on this. And next episode is on Tenma (he seems injured, again for the Nth time) so I doubt Runge would appear. I'm hoping for more information with regards to this subplot.

Hagane no Renkin Jutsushi (Fullmetal Alchemist) Ep 13 - Honoo vs Hagane (Fire vs Metal)

Ed and Al go to the East City to meet Mustang and to submit his report of Rioru. Al picks up a wandering cat on the streets out of sympathy and wants to keep it but Ed tells him to dump it since they do not have the time and ability to take care of it. Al remembers how Ed used to plead with Tricia to keep a dog and feels sad about their current situation.

Ed submits his report to Mustang but leaves out what happened at Zenotime and Aquaroa. However, Mustang knows about what has happened and tells Ed to report whatever he has done. In addition, he reminds Ed to stay in the capital so as to carry out his duties as a national alchemist since the latter has spent 3 years on searching for Kenja no Ishi but to no avail.

Just at this time, Basque Grand brings King Bradley and a huge number of national alchemists to the East City with the reason that they are here for an inspection. Ed asks Hughes about Marcoh who had saved the sick babies in Zenotime but he knows nothing about it. Ed is sure that Mustang knows something about Marcoh but the latter pretends that he is unaware. Grand appears at that time and tells them that Marcoh ran away from the army 6 years away during the internal war.

Ed tries to look for information on Marcoh but there is no data on him at all. Just then, Hughes comes to inform Ed that the annual test for national alchemists will be held at the East City instead of Centora for this year. Ed comes up with an idea to get what he wants.

Ed suggests to have a pre-match with Mustang and wants the latter to take care of the cat Al picked up from the streets if he wins as well as reveal information on Marcoh. Mustang does not take Ed's challenge seriously but King Bradley gives the go-ahead for this and Mustang has no choice but to accept this.

Mustang tells Hawkeye and Havoc that he is obeying King Bradley's orders because he is aiming for the post of the president. He reveals that his ambition is to make all women in the country wear mini-skirts which Hawkeye walks away and disses his thinking.

On the day of the battle, Mustang has the advantage and is almost able to win the match. However, a flashback appears before him and he loses his concentration which gives Ed the chance to retalliate. King Bradley stops the match and declares that it's a draw but makes them clear up the mess they created.

Ed asks Mustang why he didn't use his full powers during the match and why he lost his concentration. Mustang reveals that he remembered something which he doesn't ever want to think of again i.e. a weeping woman who was holding a gun and would kill Mustang if he didn't react. Mustang says that he thinks that Marcoh is a good man and tells Ed that he should go and look for him if he wishes to look for Kenja no Ishi.

Hughes and Mustang have a chat over drinks and Hughes reveals that Rioru is in chaos because the chief priest told the people to fight against the millitary. Even though Ed mentioned in his report that Rioru's chief priest was dead, this meant that the current priest is not the same as before. Mustang thinks that it's best not to let Ed know it now since he will realise in future that his actions did not save Rioru. In addition, Hughes reveals that the reason why King Bradley, Grand and the alchemists came to East City was due to the fact that there have been a spate of murders in Centora targetting national alchemists and there are less than 5 alchemists stationed there.

At night, a man is murdered brutally and it turns out to be Scar's doing...

Mustang and Hughes are really an interesting combination. On the surface, both may seem frivolous but they are serious when it comes to the crunch. And it seems that Mustang is very much affected by what he did during his war missions as seen from that flashback which made him lose his concentration. However, when these two are cracking jokes like Hughes trying to show off his daughter and Mustang showing his lecherous side, it makes me laugh non-stop thus making the anime more enjoyable.

Scar seems bent on killing national alchemists and he would probably cross paths with Ed as enemies. I'm really interested to know why he is behaving like this and whether he would be Ed's enemy throughout the series.

By the name, I note that Suwabe Junichi-san is also involved in FMA and he's a baddie by the name of Greed. When will I get to see or rather hear him?!

Hagane no Renkin Jutsushi (Fullmetal Alchemist) Ep 12 - Sareki no Daichi Kouhen (The land of sand - Part 2)

Mugear lead his men to the laboratory where Ed, Al, Russell and Fletcher are at. Russell lies that there is nothing wrong but Mugear keeps knocking on the door. Fletcher then decides to use alchemy to create a tree and block the door in order to give the Elric brothers time to escape.

After they leave, Mugear comes into the laboratory and asks about the progress of the experiment. Russell then passes a completed crystal of the red water which makes Mugear very happy. However, Mugear turns on them by using that crystal to perform alchemy and hold the Tringun brothers in captive since he already knew right from the beginning that they were imposters. Russell then asks Mugear about the whereabouts of their father, Nash and he reveals that Nash was killed because he refused to complete the most crucial portion of the experiment i.e. making pregnant women drink the red water and using the crystallized foetus as the exchange terms to create gold.

At the same time, Ed and Al return to Belsio's place and hear from him about Nash Trigun's past. He had been to Centora for the experiment but came back alone without his family and in a sorry state. Mugear came to Nash and asked him to continue the red water experiments. Although Nash was initially resistant to the idea, he finally agreed for the sake of making Zenotime prosperous again.

However, this led to more troubles as the vapour from the red water caused the people to fall sick and many babies died during that time. As such, Nash finally stopped the experiment and disappeared. This made Zenotime go back to its poverty state where no gold could be mined.

After hearing this story, Al tells Ed that he finds the Tringun brothers quite similar to them but Ed doesn't feel this way since he's feeling sore about his name being used. However, he finally decides to go and look for Mugear again so as to save the Tringun brothers.

Mugear tries to lie to Ed and Al in order to make them do his bidding. However, he ends up being killed by falling stones when the cave containing the red water fountain collapses.

Ed and Al leave Zenotime to return to Centora and the Tringun brothers reveal that they are staying behind to do their bit for the town and to make up for what they did. Although Russell offers to divulge the composition of the red water to assist Ed in his search for Kenja no Ishi, Ed declines the offer and decides to use his own abilities to achieve his aim...

There's not much action here other than Ed creating and breaking some walls and the Tringun brothers using trees to absorb the red water which had overflowed. The next episode seems more exciting since it's a battle between Mustang and Ed. Oh, I'm looking forward to seeing Mustang and Hughes squabble again... ^__^

Suzuka Ep 07: Ketsui (Determination)

After being rejected by Asahina, Yamato is feeling very down and knows that it's hard to pretend that nothing has happened. Seeing how upset Yamato is feeling, Hattori offers to bring Yamato for a go-kon (group date) but Yamato rejects his suggestion. Even Miho realises this so she tries to liven up things by saying that she will marry Yamato if nobody wants him in the end. This makes Yamato feel even worse as he has to be comforted by his younger cousin in his relationship matters when he should have been more mature in his way of doing things.

That night, Yamato meets Asahina who has returned home from a gathering with her athletics teammates but she returns to her room without speaking to him. Yamato feels down again but lightens up when he hears someone knocking at his door. To his disappointment, he sees Yuka and Megumi who bring drinks to his room and say that they are going to comfort him for being out of love.

Yuka tells Yamato about her own experience and tells him that he should not give up so easily even though he has been rejected. Upon hearing this, Yamato makes up his mind to continue liking Asahina and even shouts at the top of his voice about his feelings which makes Asahina very embarrassed.

After some consideration, Yamato contemplates joining the athletics team at Miyamoto's suggestion and tells Hattori about it. To his surprise, Hattori tells him to give up the idea since his intention of joining the athletics team is just to get closer to Asahina. When Asahina hears about Yamato's decision and realises that he has no idea how tough the training is, she flares up and tells Yamato not to belittle the athletics team's training as a piece of cake.

Yamato had intended to join the athletics team to spend more time with Asahina but makes her angry again. He fails to find a good opportunity to apologise to her and Hattori keeps telling him not to join the team for such a reason. When Honoka hears about Yamato's intention, she dissuades him from joining since the training is tough and it will tire him out. Actually, she is saying this because she wants more time with Yamato.

Hattori decides to bring Yamato to Asahina personally and apologise for his words. However, Yamato makes up his mind and tells Miyamoto that he is joining the athletics team much to the surprise of Hattori and Asahina...

I had the urge to make Asahina come to her senses when she ignored Yamato after the rejection. Come on, you can still be friends so what's with that attitude?! And poor Yamato is so smitten with her that he even joins the athletics team just to spend more time with her. I really think he deserves someone who will appreciate him better.

Well, joining the athletics team may not turn out well too as seen in the trailer for Ep 8 when he feels the distance between him and Asahina. And Honoka finally springs into action and takes the initiative to change the situation between her and Yamato. That's good because without competition, Asahina will never realise the importance and value of Yamato.

Yakitate Japan Ep 42

Azuma and Kawachi are busy preparing for their creations in the semi-final where the latter has managed to come up with something which he is satisfied with. However, Azuma is troubled as he does not know how to improve his Ja-pan No.51 which according to him, is perfect. Just then, Suwabara returns from his stroll and shows them the masks of the Kaiser brothers which are given out for free on the streets. He warns that they would be surrounded by supporters wearing these masks and have to prepare themselves for this psychological pressure. Suwabara also encourages Azuma to think harder on how to improve his creation and is secretly happy at the chance to have a contest with Azuma again.

On the day of the semi-final, Azuma suddenly has an idea on how he wants to improve his creation and tells Kawachi that he will be late for the match since he has to go to the palace to get his ingredients. Kawachi and Suwabara are worried about Azuma not making it for the match.

Just then, the Kaiser brothers come to talk to them before the start of the match and reveal the truth on their bodies and arrangements under that huge cloak. This makes the duo more apprehensive over whether they can win the semi-final especially without Azuma's present.

During the match, Pierro tells them that it is alright for Azuma to be late provided that he can come up with his bread within the time limit. As Kawachi and Suwabara show off their creations, they are stunned to see the Kaiser brothers being levels above them...

The part about the Kaiser's brothers' body structure is simply exaggerated.Imagine a man having arms of 2.72m long! And I simply do not understand why they must be stacked together. Anyway, it seems that the Japanese team is up against a formidable opponent and where is Azuma again? He is always late but manages to save the day. I guess we can see his performance in the next episode.

Monster Ep 60 - Shirisugita Otooko (The Man Who Knew Too Much)

After meeting the mysterious man at the hotel room, Martin leaves in a daze and fails to notice Johan who has walked past him. The man had said that Martin should kill Eva since she is asking him to kill her but Martin has other plans.

Martin returns to the hotel room where Eva is at and tells her to go to Tenma for help. However, Eva says that she will be waiting for Martin at Frankurt Central Station and tells him to escape with her. Martin says that he does not plan to kill Eva since nobody wants to die out of their own accord. After that, Martin waits for his employer's men to come for him and a gunfight ensues. Although he manages to kill 4 of them, one guy who is not injured fires a shot at Martin. Subsequently, he is sent to Tenma's place by his friend.

Tenma is unable to conduct more treatment for Martin due to lack of medical equipment but Martin refuses to be sent to a hospital. Martin tells Tenma about that man in Room 606 of Jahreszeit Hotel, his employer, the devil gaining an apprentice and the experiment at the Mansion of Red Roses still going on. In addition, he finds out that Eva is not with Tenma and realises that she is at Frankfurt Central Station. Before he breathes his last, he says that he does not want to listen to the devil and tells Tenma to look for Eva.

Tenma arrives at the train station to look for Eva and reveal that Martin has died. Eva is very upset and cries. After that, Tenma and Eva go to a coffee house to have a chat and he tells her to go to Munich. Dr Reichwein will help Eva to hide from Roberto and Martin's employer before they go to the police. Eva asks Tenma to go back with her but he says that he has to end the whole matter before more innocent people like Martin are implicated.

As Eva's train pulls away from the station, she thinks back on how she heard from Martin's employer about Johan being at an apartment in Haldecker Street and she did not tell Tenma on this info. At the same time, Tenma goes to the hotel where Martin met the mysterious man while Eva prepares to buy a gun to hunt for the devil...

It's a pity Martin died but this brought about a change in Eva as she seems to be less bitter towards Tenma when they met. In addition, seeing her cry like that, it gives the impression that she really liked Martin as a kind person who was good to her despite her treatment towards him or she felt responsible for causing him to die. And withholding that important piece of information from Tenma, Eva seems bent on killing Johan but I don't think she will succeed. If she does, the story would end prematurely. The showdown between Tenma, Nina and Johan has yet to begin so I doubt her actions will amount to anything.

As for Martin's words about the devil gaining an apprentice and the Mansion of the Roses experience, my view is that he could have made a mistake somewhere on the first part. I don't think Martin took much notice of Johan and could have misunderstood that the devil was the man in the hotel room. My view is that Johan is the devil and that man was just being brainwashed by Johan and not the other way round. However, Martin's words were kind of vague so I'm not sure what he actually thought. Well, I did assume that he was probably going to kill Eva after his past was exposed by that man but it turns out that he was logical enough to let Eva go and disobey the devil's orders. That was a clever twist to the story.

Well, for Tenma, I'm really wondering when he can meet Johan again. Maybe we'll have to wait till the final episode? And where is Nina and Dieter? I really think that when Nina, Tenma and Johan meet, that would probably be the climax of the story. Oh, where is Runge? I thought he found out who was Franz Bonaparte's son but what happened to that subplot? Lots of questions and we only have 10 plus episodes left till the end. Can everything be wrapped up by then?

Hagane no Renkin Jutsushi (Fullmetal Alchemist) Ep 11 - Sareki no Daichi Zenhen (The land of sand - Part 1)

After hearing that there is research on Kenja no Ishi at Zenotime, Ed and Al proceed to this town which is famous for its gold but realises that it has lost its lustre due to the mining of the available gold reserves. Just then, they hear cries for help as a little girl, Elisa is trapped under a cart and Ed manages to remove it using alchemy. As such, Elisa's father, Remark is very grateful for his help and brings the brothers back to his place for food.

At Elisa's place, a man by the name of Belsio comes to look for Elisa and brings her some lemons from his orchard. However, Remark seems very unhappy at the sight of Belsio and chases him away which makes the brothers puzzled over this behaviour. The locals then talk about Mugear, the local landlord who is conducting research on Kenja no Ishi to restore the town to its former prosperous state. When the locals ask the brothers about their names, they tell them truthfully but are thrown out because the locals think that they are imposters since the "Elric brothers" are already conducting research at Mugear's place. This makes Ed very interested to find out who has the audacity to use his name.

Ed and Al infiltrate into Mugear's mansion and comes into contact with the imposters, Russell and Fletcher Tringun. Russell tells them to leave the town and stop obstructing them which Ed refuses to. In the scuffle, Ed gets punched by Russell on the face and the brothers have to run away hurriedly. After this incident, Fletcher tries to convince Russell to give up the experiment but he would not hear of it.

In the meantime, Mugear and Lust are standing beside the red water stream and discussing what to do with the real Elric brothers who have come to Zenotime. Mugear promises that he will deal with them and asks Lust to give me more time to create Kenja no Ishi from the red water.

Belsio meets Ed and Al and brings them to his home for the night. The next day, Ed is out trying to find out more on the Tringun brothers and Kenja no Ishi while Belsio asks Al to get medicine for Elisa and Ed's wound at the pharmacy. However, word spreads around in town that the real Elric brothers barged into Mugear's residence and Al is thrown out of the pharmacy. Fletcher comes to Al and offers to buy the medicine for him.

Fletcher reveals to Al that his brother is bent on conducting the research which their father was halfway through even though the vapour from the red water is harmful to the human body. That is why Al notices that a lot of the locals were coughing including Elisa. However, Fletcher is unable to stop Russell at all. Al remarks that Ed is the exact opposite from Russell as he hates their father for getting too obsessed with alchemy and left their mother to suffer.

Ed and Al decide to enter the Mugear mansion again, this time via underground where they see the red water stream. Fletcher gets them to leave in the nick of time since Ed has fainted due to the vapour. Just then, Russell appears and threatens to spray the red water on Ed which Fletcher ends up getting hurt since he wants to save Ed. Fletcher tells Russell to give up the experiment so that they would not harm other people again. At this time, warning sirens sound in the mansion...

I'm not too sure whether Kenja no Ishi exists in the first place or it has to be created from some minerals though. However, it seems that the crystalised version of the red water does help in the alchemy rituals since Russell does not need to draw a formation to use alchemy. And it seems like there is more than meets the eye with regards to the Tringun brothers' father conducting research on this dangerous substance. Well, we'll get more answers in the second part of this story. By the way, Belsio does not seem like a simple man too. There must be something about him which makes him isolated from the rest of the locals.

Hagane no Renkin Jutsushi (Fullmetal Alchemist) Ep 10 - Kaitou Siren (Strange Thief Siren)

After failing to find Kenja no Ishi, Ed and Al embark on the journey back to Centora. However, Ed is not too enthusiastic about going back to meet Mustang as he is sure that the latter will pass sarcastic remarks on this unsuccessful trip again. Thus, he makes Al alight with him at the tourist town of Aqurora so that they can go sight-seeing before going back to Centora.

At night, there is a female thief by the name of Siren who manages to escape from the police again by using alchemy...

Ed and Al are walking along the streets when a carriage passes by thus dirtying Ed's clothes. He uses alchemy to restore them back to the original state. This attracts the attention of the local police inspector who brings Ed and Al back for questioning since Siren uses alchemy. The inspector is sceptical about Ed's identity as a national alchemist but releases him after 3 hours of questioning. Just then, Ed complains of a stomach ache and Al brings him to the local hospital.

At the hospital, Ed is diagnosed to be down with food poisoning and needs a jab. However, he is scared of having a jab and tries to run away when Al forces him to stay. A pretty nurse, Clara comes to administer the injection and her smile leaves a strong impression on Al who thinks that Clara resembles his mother who is very gentle and kind to people. However, Ed does not think so and tells Al not to get obsessed with Clara.

The police inspector comes back to look for Ed and is very respectful towards him since he got confirmation from Mustang on Ed's identity. He asks for Ed's help to nab Siren. Although Ed isn't too enthusiastic at first, he decides to help after he hears that Siren uses alchemy to steal.

At night, Ed meets Siren and tries to stop her from making her escape. He sees that she has a alchemy formation drawn on her chest which is allowing her to conduct alchemy rituals. However, Siren manages to give him the slip which makes Ed very irritated.

The next day, Ed happens to bump into Clara at the hospital and realises that she is Siren. She explains that she is stealing to prevent the hospital from being torn down and Ed decides to turn a blind eye towards what she is doing. However, after being deceived by Siren/Clara for 3 times, Ed decides that Clara is just stealing for her personal gains and decides not to let her off. However, Ed and Al hear only praises for Siren from the locals as the town is slowly sinking into the sea, most of the locals are slowly moving away. However, with Siren's appearance, it has gathered interest from tourists over the country to make the town a popular tourism spot. Ed and Al are not sure whether Siren is that evil after all but Ed insists on catching Siren because she is a criminal after all.

Siren is finally caught and turned over to the police. Before she is taken away, Siren tells Ed that he can go to the Zerotime City to find out more on Kenja no Ishi.

This episode is kind of funny especially when Ed and Al discover that they have been deceived by Siren for a couple of times. I don't mind humour since the atmosphere for the past few episodes were rather heavy. However, I miss seeing Scar and hearing Okiayu-san's voice...

Gankutsuou Ep 3 - 5 gatsu 22 nichi, Arashi (May 22nd, Thunderstorms)

Albert returns to Paris after his trip in Luna and joins his fiancee, Eugenie and his friends for a drive. Franz brings his fiancee, Valentine and three other friends, Renaud, Dobrel and Bauchean also join them. During the drive, Albert gets into an argument with Eugenie as usual while Franz and Valentine seem to be quite distant. When they reach the borders, they happen to meet Maximillian who seems very attracted to Valentine. After the picnic, they head towards the tower and take a look at the two worlds separated by the border. Eugenie remarks that she feels as if they have been shut in from the rest of the world which is not as prosperous as Paris.

Albert return to his house to wait for the Count who is supposed to meet him today. The ladies return home due to the downpour while the guys sit in the living room waiting for the Count. Albert's friends have doubts on the Count's real identity and character which Albert strongly objects to and tries to defend the Count.

Meanwhile, the Count has arrived in Paris and is in his carriage while on the way to Albert's house. He tells his servant that his revenge will begin from today.

The Count finally arrives at Albert's house and meets his friends who are sceptical about the Count's real identity. Bauchean tries to take photos of the Count but he declines. During dinner, Albert is shocked to find Beppo working as a maid in his house but keeps quiet instead.

After leaving Albert's house, Bauchean says that something is not quite right with the Count since he secretly taped the conversation but the Count's voice is not recorded. In addition, photos taken of the Count simply showed a fuzzy image which makes Franz rather worried.

Albert goes to look for Beppo who tells him that she left the bandits and is now working in his house as a maid. She says that it was by coincidence that she came here to work and tells Albert that she will not reveal what happened between them in Luna.

Meanwhile, the Count's attention is taken up by a potrait of Albert's mother which Albert says that his father hates this painting thus it was put in his room. He also takes the Count around to show him other paintings.

The time finally comes for Albert to introduce the Count to his parents...

It seems like the Count is definitely not human. He wasn't hurt during the scuffle with the bandits when saving Albert and now, he can't be caught on film and his voice cannot be recorded. Is he really a vampire as speculated by Albert's friends? Anyway, it seems like he does know Albert's mother so his purpose in getting to know him is to take revenge on Albert's parents? What did they do to him?

Hagane no Renkin Jutsushi (Fullmetal Alchemist) Ep 09 - Gun no Inu no Gin tokei (The silver watch of the army's dog)

Ed realises how vulnerable he is and makes up his mind to be the army's "dog" i.e. lackey in order to build up his strength for the sake of achieving his aim. Before Winry returns to their hometown, Ed and Al bring her around shopping but Winry can sense that Ed has something on his mind. Nevertheless, she does not probe further and buys some mechanical oil for him, saying that he should do some maintenance for his metal limbs since she's not by his side.

When Winry prepares to leave Centora for home, she asks Ed and Al to come back if they can. However, Ed says that since they had burned their house to show their determination to achieve their aim, they do not have a hometown anymore. Winry is sad to hear this but still waves them goodbye with a smile.

Mustang gives Ed his first mission as a national alchemist to investigate the situation at the eastern mining town of Uswell. Ed tells Al that he doesn't have to come with him since this is his job but Al reminds Ed that they are brothers and should be together. At the same time, Mustang's superior hints that he may be promoted soon but this is a demotion in effect since he would be stationed in the eastern region which is full of problems.

Ed and Al notice something strange with Uswell as the mining workers seem to be quite lethargic and there is a lack of activity which is usually associated with mining towns. The brothers are brought to a hotel run by Halling, one of the mining workers but he demands that they pay a big sum of money to stay for the night. As such, Ed decides to make use of alchemy to restore things for the workers and stay in the hotel. However, when the workers hear that he is from the millitary, they throw him out because they are very against the army. Since Al has not mentioned his relationship with Ed, the workers treat him kindly and even give him food to eat.

Al brings the food secretly to Ed and is upset about the treatment towards Ed. He says that he wants to be a national alchemist with Ed but the latter says that he doesn't have to endure such treatment with him.

At the same time, Yoki, the local in-charge from the army comes to Halling's place and demands that they pay up the taxes. However, the workers refuse to do so since Halling reduces their salaries and increases the taxes at the same time. Yoki gets angry and commands his maid, Lyra to teach them a lesson where Ed comes to the rescue. Ed announces his identity as a national alchemist which makes Yoki suck up to him immediately.

Ed finds out about Yoki's treatment towards the workers and the latter even has the cheek to bribe Ed. He pretends to accept Yoki's money. In the meantime, Lyra goes to destroy Halling's hotel under Yoki's orders which makes Ed come to a decision.

Ed uses the money Yoki gave him to turn coal into gold bars. He tricks Yoki into selling the rights to manage the mines and gives the deed to Halling. When Yoki realises that he has been cheated, Lyra tries to fight against Ed which she loses badly. After this incident, Ed builds up his fame as the national alchemist who thinks for the people.

It is 3 years later when Ed is 15 and Al is 14 as they head towards their goal of finding Kenja no Ishi...

This episode is much brighter than the past few which were very serious and emotional. Ed is a very observant guy who knows what is going on and turns the situation around easily. It's very funny to see him tricking Yoki and jumping on people who tease him about his height. I think the next episode continues from they left Rioru in Ep 2 which means that they are continuing their quest for Kenja no Ishi. More action is coming up as they prepare to face new enemies...

Suzuka Ep 06: Kokuhaku (Confession)

As tomorrow is the school founding anniversary, Asahina does not need to go for training. Yamato wants to ask her out for a date but is troubled over how to do it naturally. Just then, a newspaper promoter comes to his doorstep and offers to give him 2 tickets to the amusement park if he subscribes to the delivery service. As such, Yamato has a legitimate excuse to ask Asahina out on the next day and gets very excited at the possible scenarios to ask her out naturally.

However, Yamato cannot find a chance to talk to Asahina and even has his tickets torn by the cat. As such, he is feeling upset when Asahina tells him that the newspaper promoter gave her two tickets to the amusement park for free even though she did not subscribe to the service. Yamato offers to go with Asahina as a joke but she agrees to it unexpectedly.

The next day, things start off on a bad note when it rains heavily thus Asahina gets irritated at having to spend the day on indoor attractions. She grumbles at Yamato who is constantly in a daze and says that she is going home after they are done with the current ride. This makes Yamato rather unhappy but her sudden change in attitude about continuing to spend the day at the amusement park lifts Yamato's spirits.

After the rain has stopped, Yamato and Asahina go to watch the procession and fireworks where during all this while, they have been holding hands. Yamato suddenly confesses to Asahina about his feelings which make her stunned. However, she lets go of Yamato's hand and apologises for not being able to reciprocate his feelings. Yamato tries to pretend nothing is wrong as they walk home silently.

Yamato goes home to find Hattori in his room and he tells the latter about his day at the amusement park. Hattori realises what has happened even before Yamato talks about his confession and leaves behind a pack of tissues for him. After Hattori leaves, Yamato cries his heart out after being rejected by Asahina...

Somehow, I think Asahina has been leading Yamato on with her everchanging attitude. One moment, she seems so kind to him and the other, she makes Yamato quite frustrated. Why would you want to hold a guy's hand for so long if you don't feel anything for him? I don't think she is doing it deliberately but this subconscious action is making a fool out of Yamato who has eyes for her only. Now, if Honoka makes the first move, will jealousy finally make Asahina budge and take notice of her feelings? In addition, who is that guy in the photo Asahina seems to like so much? That could be the reason why Asahina is not willing to accept Yamato.

Yakitate Japan Ep 41

Azuma, Suwabara and Kawachi are saved after Pierro manages to swim underwater and gets help. They are surprised to see the King of Monaco before them and find out that the troubles they have gotten into are all the doing of the committee chief of the Monaco Cup. The King promises that there will not be anymore of such happenings in future and says that he will take over the running of the content from the semi-finals onwards. As such, the semi-finals are set to take place one week later where the contestants have to make sports bread for the F1 drivers.

Azuma mentions that he has made such a bread before, Japan No.51 which he says it's flawless. However, Kuroyanagi and Sophie reminds them that it is better not to underestimate their competitors especially the French team consisting of the Kaiser brothers. Upon hearing that the King will be giving free ingredients for the contestants, Azuma and the rest head for the palace to get what they want.

At the same time, the Monaco police come to Sophie to ask about her father Kirisaki Yuichi, the owner of St Pierre as they find that he had contact with the committee chief of the Monaco Cup. Sophie recalls with anger about how her father left her and Meister behind at a young age and even ate bread in front of the hungry siblings. As such, she would not be surprised if he's really behind what's been happening to the Japanese team.

At the palace, Azuma, Suwabara and Kawachi meet the King who decides to ask them one question before granting them to get whatever ingredients they need. They are stumped when the King asks them if they have a bread which looks delicious, who would they give it to first? Azuma answers almost immediately that he will eat it first because looking delicious is not a guarantee that it will taste as good. Thus, he will eat it first to confirm the taste before giving to others. The King is very pleased with this answer and grants them access to the ingredients.

When the trio return to the hotel and relate this to Sophie and Kuroyanagi, she is shocked to hear this question as this was what Kirisaki had asked her and Meister when he ate bread before them. The secret police also reveal that Kirisaki is an old acquaintance of the King so he would have the chance to stop the Japanese team from winning. This does not deter the trio and fires their determination to grab the title despite the obstacles in their way...

No contests in this episode but we'll get to see them against the French team in the next episode. Now that we are at the semi-finals of the Monaco Cup, are we nearing the end of this anime? I've been following this for close to a year so if it's ending, it will be kind of sad even though I wouldn't say this is one of my top favourites but it's enough to keep me entertained.

Hagane no Renkin Jutsushi (Fullmetal Alchemist) Ep 08 - Kenja no Ishi (The Stone of the Wise)

The anguish of being unable to save Nina makes Ed very upset and helpless. Mustang tells Ed that he should leave this case to the investigation department which Hughes belongs to and reminds him that there will be more occurrences of similar heart-wrenching situations in future if he wishes to pursue his original aim of regaining his and Al's bodies by making use of the powers given to a national alchemist. Ed cannot come to terms with this matter and gets frustrated with himself.

One day, Mustang gets Havoc to inform Ed to consolidate and analyse Tucker's research data but Ed is unwilling to do so. Havoc tells Ed that Tucker had been executed quietly by the millitary which Ed sees it as a deliberate attempt to cover up the matter. Al tries to persuade Ed to get over the matter and concentrate on what he has to do but Ed refuses to do so and runs away from Tucker's place.

Ed goes to Mustang and asks him to take back the order of analyzing Tucker's research data so that he can concentrate on finding Nina's killer. However, Mustang reminds Ed that the duty of a national alchemist is not to find the murderer but to obey the orders given to him by the millitary. Ed does not wish to accept this order and gives Mustang his silver pocket watch back to show his determination.

While wandering around the streets, Ed happens to meet Scar who asks whether he is a national alchemist. However, Ed remarks that he has just stopped being one which Scar says that it is good for him.

Al goes to Riza Hawkeye to ask about Kenja no Ishi which she says that she isn't clear about. However, she tells Al that the national library may have such information but it is only open to national alchemists. At the same time, King Bradley joins in their conversation and tells Al that Kenja no Ishi may not even exist and that it is unknown whether it does have the powers as rumoured.

Ed goes to find Hughes who provides him with information on the serial murder cases so as to see if there's any clue to solving Nina's case. In the meantime, Winry arrives at Centora to give Ed and Al a surprise by paying them a visit and she heads to the millitary headquarters to look for them.

At the canteen, a lady who delivers supplies to the millitary kitchen hears about Ed being the youngest national alchemist and looks on with interest as Ed goes out to meet a visitor who is actually Winry. At the same time, Winry gets interested in the delivery lady's vehicle and the latter offers to let her take a look inside...

Ed comes out to find his visitor nowhere in sight and sees a screw left behind by Winry and tyre marks from a vehicle. He comes to the conclusion that Winry is in trouble and decides to search for her.

Winry is abducted by the lady who turns out to be a man by the name of Barry and he's the real culprit of the serial murders. Ed gets tied up by Barry and his arm being removed so as to prevent him from performing any alchemy rituals. Just before Ed gets killed by Barry, Hughes arrives with Al and his men to save them. This episode makes Ed realise how vulnerable he is and he would have to make himself stronger in order to achieve his aim.

Ed goes back to Mustang to get his silver pocket watch back and says that he will obey Mustang's orders. However, he asks for the permission to search for Kenja no Ishi in his free time which Mustang agrees to. Mustang also informs him that King Bradley has conferred upon Ed the title of "Fullmetal Alchemist".

That day, Ed and Al bring Winry out where Scar is watching from afar. He sees that Ed has become a national alchemist again and walks away quietly...

I wonder if Scar will become Ed's friend or foe in future. I doubt that he is evil but it seems that he has something against the millitary or the national alchemists and feels that his purpose of living is to eliminate the evil brought upon by alchemy.

Mustang, being the person who invited Ed to come to Centora takes on the role of a mentor and disciplinary master for Ed. He keeps Ed on the correct track i.e. to do what is expected of him and yet teaches him about the vulnerability of being under the millitary. Although he may seem quite childish at times to bicker with people like Hughes, he seems to be a very deep character with an unknown past. And Hughes is adding a lot of humour in the anime with his love for his daughter and bragging to everyone how cute she is.

Now that Winry has come to join Ed and Al, this might mean lighter moments every now and then especially if Ed is teased about his relationship with her. ^__^

Hagane no Renkin Jutsushi (Fullmetal Alchemist) Ep 07 - Kimera ga Naku Yoru (The Night when Kimera cried)

Ed becomes a national alchemist at the age of 12 which makes him the youngest to date. Mustang passes him the silver pocket watch which bears testimony to his status while also means that he is a member of the millitary at the same time.

Mustang's subordinate, Jean Havoc drives Ed back to the Tucker residence and Ed grumbles about Mustang as an unfeeling fellow who only knows how to aim for promotions. Havoc defends Mustang by saying that if he's really like that, his subordinates would not obey him at all. He also mentions that Mustang is busy with a case of serial murders where the victims were women. Ed doesn't understand why Mustang has to poke his nose into this matter and Havoc explains that since the murders happened on millitary territory, it doesn't reflect nicely on Mustang to have the cases unresolved.

Tucker holds a celebration party for Ed and he is reminded by Havoc about the upcoming annual test for alchemists. Tucker is very stressed over this as he has yet to create a succesful kimera (hybrid of human and animal) for the test. If he fails the test, his status as an alchemist would be taken away and he would have to go without the financial assistance from the government.

Ed is writing a letter to Winry about him being an alchemist when Nina comes into their room. Al teases Ed about Winry being his girlfriend which Ed is quick to deny. Upon seeing Ed writing a letter, Nina decides to draw a picture of her family to send to her mother who has returned to her hometown as she is angry with Tucker. Later, Tucker says that Nina's mother is unhappy with him being poor and brings Nina back to her room. However, Ed notices something fishy when he sees Nina's picture burned and comes to the conclusion that this is Tucker's doing.

Ed goes to the national library to find more information about Tucker and his experiments on Kimera but is told that he needs approval from the millitary top brass in order to access the information. On the way out, Ed sees a man, Scar who wants to enter the library but is stopped by the guard. Ed tries to stop Scar and accidentally tears off the sleeve of his shirt thus revealing some tattoos on his right arm. Scar gets frightened and runs away quickly.

Ed goes to look for Hughes and asks about Tucker's wife. According to Hughes, he heard that Tucker's wife died before he and Nina came to Centora so Ed is puzzled to hear conflicting stories about Tucker's background. In addition, the millitary comes to Tucker's house and makes Ed and Al move away as Tucker's experiments are supposed to be top secret.

Tucker is pressurised by the millitary that he has to come up with something for the upcomimg test and comes to a decision after hugging Nina...

Ed and Al return to Tucker's house quietly and finds that he has successfully created a new kimera which can talk and understand human speech. Ed realises that Tucker had sacrificed his own daughter, Nina and his dog, Alexander to come up with Kimera and questions his conscience. However, Tucker thinks that he did nothing wrong since he does not want to live in poverty again and be stripped of the title of national alchemist. Ed wants to restore the kimera back to its original form but Tucker claims that his alchemy is so successful that it would not be possible to do so. Ed gets so angry that he beats up Tucker. Just then, the millitary come to Tucker's place to bring him and the kimera back. Ed is furious about the millitary planning to destroy the evidence and keep the matter under wraps and creates an accident which results in the kimera running away.

At the same time, Scar is hiding at a street corner and lamenting why his elder brother tattooed the alchemy formations on his arm. Just then, the kimera appears in front of Scar which he realises immediately what this animal is made up of. In order to stop its suffering, Scar decides to restore the kimera back to its original form which ultimately means that it is destroyed.

Ed and Al finally find the kimera's remains at the street corner and are upset that they are unable to do anything to save Nina and Alexander...

Although the thought of hearing Okiayu-san's voice is great, I never guessed that this is such a sad episode which made me cry in the end. The excitement of hearing him was very much overshadowed by the sad ending.

I can never comprehend how Tucker can sacrifice his own wife and daughter for the sake of creating a kimera. And it was so painful to see Ed feeling helpless because he knows that with his current powers, he's still unable to restore the kimera back to its original form. In the end, he could have done the same thing as Scar i.e. relieving the kimera of its pain by destroying it.

Will future episodes be as sad and painful to watch as this? I never thought that I would shed tears when watching this anime although some of the previous episodes did make me feel upset. This anime is one of the few which has managed to tug at my heartstrings recently and I'm sure it will get even better.

Gankutsuou Ep 2 - Tsuki ni Asahi ga noboru made (Before the sun shines upon the moon)

Just as Albert is getting intimate with Beppo, a girl who makes the first move on him while on the streets, he is surprised to see her holding a gun and a group of gangsters moving towards him.

At the same time, Franz is at the party but his thoughts are on Albert who is wandering on the streets. He hears from the people at the party that there is a gang headed by a guy called Luigi Vampa which abducts people on the streets and robs or kills them. Since the local police are unable to do anything to Luigi's gang, they do as they wish in Luna which makes Franz start to worry.

Franz returns to the hotel where he is stopped by the convict who was saved by Albert when he chose his name from the three cards. That convict tells Franz to prepare 50 million ducats before dawn or Albert would be killed. Franz tries very hard to get the money but it is in the middle of the night and he can find nobody to lend him the money. Finally, he remembers the Count and goes to him for help.

During the journey to save Albert, Franz reveals to the Count that he and Albert met during his father's funeral when Albert came to talk to him. As such, they have been good friends since then but the Count seems to have doubts on the strength of their friendship.

At the same time, it is nearing dawn and Luigi's gang prepares to kill Albert. Beppo tries to intervene and is beaten by the gang. Just then, the Count's men barge in to overcome the gang members. The Count goes to find Luigi alone and reveals that he's Gankutsuou (king of the cavern). When Luigi attacks the Count, he is unhurt which scares Luigi so much that he is easily subdued.

After the ordeal, Albert tries to make light of the matter which Franz gets angry and slaps him since he was running around for his sake.

During a meal with the Count, he reveals to Albert and Franz that he plans to move to Paris and asks for their help to introduce him to the noble society there. Albert agrees to it enthusiastically and they make a date to meet 3 months later on 22 May. With that, Albert and Franz leave Luna to return to Paris.

The Count keeps looking at a wedding picture of a couple and talks about revenge. What has it got to do with Albert since the Count seems to be very interested in him? And he's definitely not human judging from the fact that he was not hurt when Luigi flung a knife at him. And when the Count appears in Paris, this seems to spell trouble from the trailer of the next episode.

The OP and ED are all in English and differ in styles. The OP is a ballad while the ED is a fast techno-style number. I prefer the OP though.

Hagane no Renkin Jutsushi (Fullmetal Alchemist) Ep 06 - Kokka Renkin Jutsushi Shikaku Shiken (National Alchemist Exam)

In order to prepare for the national alchemist exam, Mustang brings Ed and Al to Shou Tucker who is well-known for creating a hybrid animal, Kimera who can speak and understand human speech. Tucker lives with his 4-year-old daughter, Nina and his dog Alexander but he does not talk about where his wife is. In addition, when Ed and Al ask to see Kimera, Tucker says that Kimera had died a few months after it was created and does not elaborate further. Mustang tells Tucker that he will tell him more about the Elric brothers in future.

During dinner, Nina sees that Al is not eating and passes him the bread which Al pops into his armour even though he cannot eat and doesn't feel the hunger. Upon seeing this, Ed feels rather upset.

Ed and Al study alchemy in Tucker's place and play with Nina whenever they can. One day, Hughes comes to look for them and reminds Ed that today is his birthday. As such, he is here to bring the brothers and Nina to his place for a celebration. They meet Hughes' wife, Gracia who is pregnant and they have a feast together. Suddenly, Gracia collapses in pain and says that she's about to give birth. Due to the fact that there's a snowstorm, Hughes runs out to get a doctor and asks the kids to look after Gracia.

The Elric brothers and Nina have no idea what to do and can only follow Gracia's directions to prepare towels and a tub of hot water. However, Hughes does not return for a long time and the water gets cold. Ed gets uptight and puts his hands together in frustration before touching the cold water which heats up immediately. Both Ed and Al are quite shocked as Ed did not even draw an alchemy diagram and yet he can make the water boil just by using his hands.

After getting the doctor, Gracia finally gives birth to a baby girl. That night, Ed and Al lay on their beds as Al remarks that he should have been soft and cuddly like Hughes' daughter when he was born but now he's in a hard and cold armour. This makes Ed even more determined to be a national alchemist so as to get Al's body back.

The national alchemist exam consists of three stages i.e. the written exam, the interview and physical alchemy test. Both Ed and Al pass the written exam but Mustang tells Al to give up taking the exam because he will definitely be probed about his armour. If Ed and Al wish to conceal their past, Al must not take part in the interview. Ed persuades Al to give up and says that it is enough for him to be a national alchemist in order to regain Al's body which Al agrees to reluctantly. When asked at the interview why he wants to be a national alchemist, Ed thinks of Al and says that he made a promise to his family member to do so.

At the final stage where the candidates have to show their alchemy abilities in front of the millitary personnel, Ed manages to impress them as he does not need to draw the alchemy diagram and saves someone from being injured. As such, Ed becomes a national alchemist at the age of 12.

Two parts are especially memorable to me in this episode.

The first being Ed and Al's regrets when seeing Hughes' baby daughter that they no longer have their original bodies given by their mother, Tricia. It's rather sad to see them behaving like this and when Al said that all he wants to do when he gets his body would be to hug Ed tightly, it speaks volumes of how much the brothers love each other.

The second being the part when Ed and Al were told by Mustang that Al has to give up the exam. Since Al is now being contained in the armour, he doesn't have a physical form to speak of and would definitely be questioned by the examiners. To spare him from that rejection and pain of having to recount his past, Mustang has no choice but to ask him to give up or they can never cover up their past and the failed human alchemy ritual they performed. No wonder Al did not become a national alchemist. This had been bothering me since I started watching this so I know what's going on now.

The next episode should talk more about how Ed and Al are living after getting the title of national alchemist. And Scar has appeared! Okiayu-san! I certainly hope that he can talk more in this anime. ^__^

Hagane no Renkin Jutsushi (Fullmetal Alchemist) Ep 05 - Shisou! Automeru (Run! Autometal)

In order to be a national alchemist, Ed and Al prepare to take a train to Centora so as to meet Roy Mustang. While on the phone with Mustang at a station, Ed is told to take the earlier train instead of the one he is scheduled to board. Although Ed cannot understand why Mustang insisted on him doing so, he obeys this order and rushes to board the train with Al.

On the same train, there are military personnel because General Haguro is on board with his family. One of them, Maes Hughes is chatting on the wireless phone with Mustang telling him all about his wife and yet-to-be born child which makes the latter really irritated and hangs up the call.

Just then, some members of the Eastern Liberation Group take over the train and hold everyone hostage so as to make Mustang release their leader from prison. The ringleader among them, Bald insists on Mustang bringing their leader to the Centora station or he would kill the General and other passengers. Ed and Al are requested by the millitary to assist in stopping them which they gladly agree to do so. After some hair-raising encounters, Bald and his members are overpowered and held captive.

When they reach Centora, Mustang comes to meet Ed and Al and take over those captives. Suddenly, Bald breaks free and attacks Mustang but he uses his fire alchemy skills to stop Bald.

Ed asks Mustang if he had known about the attack beforehand thus decided to make use of him and Al to save the General. Mustang does not deny this and says that this is a good opportunity for Ed which he should be thanking Mustang for. That is because kids cannot take part in the national alchemist test and with this achievement, Mustang can arrange for Ed to take part in the test. Although Ed is angry at Mustang for making use of him and Al, he sees Mustang's point and declares that he will definitely pass the test.

Some new characters are being introduced here e.g. Hughes who is so funny and seems like an interesting combination with Mustang. I bet these two will be the source of more comical relief.

As for Mustang making use of Ed in this incident, I bet there will be more to come since Pinako already warned Ed that he might be forced to do things he doesn't want. As such, there will always be a high chance that Ed is being manipulated to do certain things in future since he is going to be a national alchemist. Just like what Al keeps emphasizing, you have to give up something in order to get something as in the laws of alchemy. Thus, for Ed to get the position of a national alchemist, there are things he may have to sacrifice in the end.

Hagane no Renkin Jutsushi (Fullmetal Alchemist) Ep 04 - Ai no Rensei (Alchemy of Love)

In order to become a national alchemist, Ed and Al leave their hometown to look for Roy Mustang and pass by a village by the name of Rintaa where there's a famous alchemist by the name of Majhal. Ed remembers that a guy by the same name sent letters to his father so he and Al decides to pay Majhal a visit.

On the way to the village, the brothers meet a boy by the name of Clause who has led a group of boys to release fireworks in preparation for the village's festival. Clause and his gang get into a clash with Ed and Al when Majhal comes by and brings them back home.

Majhal marvels at Ed's ability to contact Al's soul in the metal armour and remarks that he is as good as his father. Ed asks Majhal about his letter to his father whereby they had discussed the alchemy of human body but Majhal claims that he is not able to do something like this and he had just discussed this with Ed's father to exchange pointers. Just at this point, an old lady by the name of Levy comes by to give Majhal some rose jam and she leaves hurriedly at the sight of Ed and Al.

While having dinner, Clause's father brings him to Majhal's place to apologise to Ed and Al. Clause is unable to take it lying down and runs away.

Ed and Al run after him and save him from falling into the river. Clause relates that his sister died in the forest and on her funeral, both he and his father saw the image of a woman by the name of Carlin who died 20 years ago. Clause asks Ed and Al to help him find that spirit but Ed refuses to do so since there are no spirits in the first place.

Clause gets his friends to lay a trap at the cemetery to capture Carlin but Ed and Al fall into the trap instead. However, Clause happens to see Carlin's image and runs towards her but Majhal appears at that time and induces a fire to burn Carlin. Ed hears a strange sound when Carlin is burnt and suspects that something is wrong.

Ed and Al search around for clues in Majhal's house and bump into Levy who try to stop them. However, Ed finds some figurines of Carlin and understands what is going on when Majhal returns. Majhal tells Ed and Al that Carlin used to be his lover but she died due to an accident. As doing a human alchemy was beyond him, he had to get women and use their spirits to get Carlin to return to life in a figurine. Just then, Clause who is actually a girl in disguise barges into Majhal's house and overhears everything thus she is captured by Majhal as the next sacrificial spirit to get Carlin back to life.

Ed and Al finally break free of the chain and Ed finds out that Levy is actually Carlin. She lost her memory due to the accident and was living elsewhere until she regained her memory and returned to look for Majhal. However, Majhal did not recognise her at all. Majhal refuses to believe that the Carlin he had loved turned into an old woman and tries to kill them when Ed turns the tables on him thus leading to Majhal being killed by the falling sword.

Ed and Al prepare to resume their journey when Clause comes to see them off in her female clothes. Al laments that although alchemy may be useful, it can be misused like in Majhal's case.

Well, from the next episode onwards, Ed and Al will finally get to meet Roy and begin their journey to be a national alchemist. I'm quite curious as to what kind of man is Ed and Al's father. Is he a national alchemist since Majhal remarked that Ed was like his father due to his ability to contain Al's soul in an armour?

Gankutsuou Ep 1 - Tabi no Owari ni Bokura wa Deau (We met at the end of the trip)

Started to watch this yesterday.

Well, I've been hearing a lot about this anime e.g. the fact that it's made by Gonzo, the graphics are fabulous. Personally, I find that the graphics and colours used seem to be rather imaginary, dreamy and unreal. I guess this has to do with the fact that this story is set in the future. One point I would like to make would be the colours of the clothes. Somehow, the designs do not seem to be stagnant and they kind of blended in with the surroundings as if the prints of the clothes are moving. In addition, the clothes seem to be in vibrant colours and there's no plain suit so far based on this first episode. It's the first time I've seen colours like this in an anime.

The story begins with 2 good friends, Albert Montcerf and Franz who are travelling together. They come to a town called Luna when their local carnival is being held.

At the opera, Albert and Franz see a mysterious man who calls himself the Count of Monte Cristo and has nicknames like the Gentleman and Vampire since his background is unknown to the nobles. The two receive a dinner invitation from the Count and are impressed with his mannerisms and wealth. Albert seems to be in awe of the Count which Franz does not feel the same way as he's wary about this mysterious man. However, Albert does not believe Franz and agrees to join the Count for lunch on the next day where the public execution of criminals is to take place.

The Count suggests that they play a game where Albert can save one of the criminals' lives by choosing the card which bears that person's name. Franz realises that the Count is up to no good but Albert refuses to leave the balcony. The Count makes use of Albert's mentality that he wants to search for his true self on this trip with Franz and wants Albert to make his choice to prove that he has a mind of his own. After much deliberation, Albert finally chooses a card and he ends up saving the worst criminal among the three - a serial killer.

After being much shaken after this incident, Albert quarrels with Franz and goes wandering on the streets. He meets a beautiful girl and brings her to a street corner before getting intimate with her. However, Albert is shocked when the girl suddenly uses a gun to point at him...

Based on the story so far, I think my interest can be sustained throughout the series since I like suspense stories. I'm interested to know what the Count is up to and why is he seeking revenge on Albert who seems to have nothing to do with him. This looks very promising.

Suzuka Ep 05: Koi wazurai (Love troubles)

After that hug in the rain, Yamato wants to know how Asahina feels about him but she keeps avoiding contact with him. This makes Yamato rather uneasy and he gets angry at Asahina when she agrees to go somewhere with a guy wearing spectacles. However, it turns out that this guy, Miyamoto used to be Asahina's senior in junior high and is asking for her help to get Yamato into the athletics team. Although Yamato is glad that there is nothing between Miyamoto and Asahina, he still rejects Miyamoto's offer as he did not think that the record he achieved during that shuttle run was real. It was most probably by luck that he could run that fast so he didn't think it was right to join the athletics team. Nevertheless, Miyamoto says that he will ask Yamato again since he's not likely to agree to it now.

That night, there is a thunderstorm which results in a blackout. Being afraid of the dark and the thunder, Asahina comes over to Yamato's room with an aromatherapy candle and they sit side by side in the dimly-lit room. They talk about their hometowns where Yamato brings up the day they hugged in the rain. Asahina tries to brush it off by saying that she held on to him because she was stunned by the car which drove past them and tells Yamato not to assume things.

Yamato is confused by Asahina's ever-changing attitude and wonders if she has any feelings for him. Hattori realises that Yamato is troubled over Asahina and gives him some advice.

After school, Yamato asks Hattori to go to a karaoke with him to vent his frustrations when the latter asks Honoka along. Yamato does not realise Honoka's obvious feelings for him and decides to go home as he feels that he's not enjoying himself at all. He wonders if he should confess his feelings to Asahina but he's scared that they cannot be friends if she rejects him. Suddenly, he hears Asahina calling out to him and she asks him to go shopping with her. As such, Yamato decides that it's better not to tell Asahina about his feelings first as he doesn't want to lose her.

Frankly speaking, if I am Yamato, I would also feel frustrated at Asahina's everchanging attitude. One moment, she's quite nice and the next, she seems to be avoiding Yamato like the plague. However, it seems like Asahina's feelings have somewhat changed after seeing Yamato run in the race so I guess she's not willing to come to terms with her feelings yet. On the other hand, we have Honoka who's obviously obsessed with Yamato but he only has eyes for Asahina.

The next episode's title is "Kokuhaku" (Confession) so does this mean that Yamato is going to make a move?

Yakitate Japan Ep 40

As usual, a highly entertaining yet ridiculous episode from Yakitate Japan. This is not a grouse as my meaning of ridiculous would be some of the events not being very logical but I won't call myself an idiot for continuing to watch this. Actually, I wonder what really makes me stay on to watch Yakitate as the story is not really exciting and quite repetitive i.e. make bread, win contest but the humour makes me relax for that 20 minutes or so thus I'm content to be silly and forget all logic. At the initial stages of watching this, I actually had the urge to eat bread after each episode.

What was left off from last week would be Pierro, Azuma, Kawachi and Suwabara being trapped at the deep valley. Pierro lies to the trio that he can swim 2-3km underwater to seek help provided they feed him with a bread made with fish. This is initially to get them fired up and stop worrying over their survival but Pierro does not know how to swim in the first place. As such, he is just making use of the time to make the bread for thinking of another way to get help.

However, things do not go his way as the guys manage to make the bread despite Pierro's constant "disturbances" like giving a mathematics question to test them. Unexpectedly, Azuma is a maths genius so Pierro's question means nothing to him.

Pierro realises that he cannot run away from his responsibility anymore and falls into the water to prepare to die. However, apparently after eating that bread, he suddenly knows how to swim and breathe like a fish as if he has gills. And this leads him to reach where Kuroyanagi and Sophie are so I guess it's obvious that the trio will be saved by the next episode. Besides, the King of Monaco will step in and remove that chief of the committee so there should be more fair play.

And the next round should be the semi-finals so we are nearing the end of the Monaco Cup arc. Does that mean I have to say goodbye to this series?!

Hagane no Renkin Jutsushi (Fullmetal Alchemist) Ep 03 - Okaasan (Mother)

Ed and Al proceed on their trip in search of Kenja no Ishi and are flipping through some ancient books at a old bookstore. Al finds an elementary book on alchemy which the brothers used to learn from. However, Ed seems to be reluctant to talk about the past as Al relates what happened in their hometown, Rizenburu.

The two brothers lived with their mother, Trisha and their father had left them many years ago. They are good friends with Winry Rockbell, who lives nearby and her grandmother, Pinako. The Elric brothers' first product from alchemy was a doll for Winry's birthday but she got scared at the sight of the ritual and resulted in her parents telling Trisha about it. However, Trisha did not blame them and even praised them for being smart enough to conduct alchemy rituals. As such, this led to the brothers being more obsessed with alchemy so as to please their mother. Trisha didn't talk much about her husband and was constantly in a daze which led to Ed being increasingly irritable when his father was being mentioned. Actually, Ed didn't really hate his father but he was angry that the latter's departure without a word about his whereabouts caused unhappiness for Trisha and gradually resisted the mention of him.

One day, the Elric brothers heard from Winry that her parents were dead due to the internal war and ran home crying as they couldn't bear the thought of Trisha leaving them in the same way. However, as fate would have it, Trisha passed away when Ed was 10 and Al was 9 due to a chronic illness which she had never told anyone about. Ed and Al had sent letters to their father's acquaintances so as to get him to return to see Trisha but to no avail. The brothers then decide to find a teacher to learn all about alchemy so as to bring their mother back to life despite the fact that the resurrection alchemy ritual is forbidden due to the unforseen repercussions. At this time, Ed was already quite furious about his father not even returning to attend Trisha's funeral and didn't want to rely on him even if they did meet him again.

After the brothers came back from their learning trip, they proceeded to make arrangements for the resurrection ritual. Unknown to them, someone from the military had been watching them from afar as they prepared for the ritual. Things went out of of control which resulted in Ed losing his left leg and Al losing his entire body. To prevent Al from disappearing, Ed sacrificed his right arm so as to contain Al's soul in the metal armour. When Al regained his consciousness, he is shocked to see what happened and brings Ed to Winry's place for treatment.

At that same time, Roy Mustang, the military guy who was observing Ed and Al's house from afar came to Winry's place and asked to talk to Ed and Al but was being chased out by Pinako who wanted to give Ed some rest. After Ed woke up, he asked Pinako and Winry to fix metal limbs for him so that he can go to look for Roy when he recovers. Pinako tries to dissuade Ed from being a national alchemist since this means that he will be enlisted into the army when there is war and that he may be forced to use his alchemy skills to kill people. However, to Ed, the most important thing to become a national alchemist was to find a way to get back his and Al's bodies.

After some time, Ed was finally able to utilise his metal limbs with ease and told Al about his decision to be a national alchemist so as to find ways to regain their bodies. Al refused to leave Ed and insists on going with him. Ed says that they might not succeed again this time to regain their original bodies and he was prepared to bear all the consequences of his actions. Al decided against stopping Ed and the brothers went to look for Roy after burning their house so as to say goodbye to their pasts.

This is a rather emotional episode where we find out what happened in the Elric brothers' lives before the failed alchemy ritual. The bond between mother and son is so strong that I felt so sad when Trisha died and the brothers stood in the bitter cold at the cemetery. When Ed said with indignation that Trisha was happy to see the brothers being interested in alchemy just because it reminded her of their father, it was as if Ed felt that all he had done so far were in vain and his resentment towards his father seemed to have escalated due to Trisha's death. He thinks that his father should be held responsible for Trisha's unhappy life while pining for him so when Ed and Al meet their father again, it's probably going to be a clash of emotions.

Just a note here, I might not be able to come with the actual spelling of the places since they are in romaji. If not for the website, I may have similar problems with the characters' names too.