I really want to know the ending though. But i don't, because then FMA would end. Still, i don't want it dragging.
By the way, about the Bittersweet/Sugary sweet comment, i did mean that not everything in FMA is perfect and usually has a flip-side to it, even if an event 'ends well' in general. Like what Alchemical said. Thank you for answering while i've been gone from the thread by the way.

Oh, I really don't know... It's so unpredictable... That's why I love it so much. I really hope alot of people don't die... ugh I don't want to be depressed for like... forvever haha.

I did and didn't like the anime's ending (well the movie ending as well) how ed and al just left all of them behind, I don't know, It upset me of how easily they threw it all away.

Sadly, I do think Ed will die... he's just an easy target haha.

Yes, I don't want it to end, either, but I don't want it to drag. A lot of good series turn bad like that



Ed really is an easy target, huh? Of course, me made himself that way, making so many enemies for himself and his brother (not to mention his friends now that the manga's plot has progressed)

But I really hope he doesn't end up dieing. Mustang, too. Actually, I think Al and even Winry have good chances of dieing in this one...

I think Ed, Al, and Winry will most likely pull through, but given the level of pointed commentary on sins of the last generation, I wouldn't be surprised if a few of the good adult characters got knocked off before the end.

And odds are high that Scar and Hohenheim will probably die.

I totally agree (though, I think Al and Winry have a higher chance of dieing this time if it came down to it) I think at least one of the adults will die *hopes it won't be Mustang or Riza*

Yeah, I don't think Hohenheim and Scar will make it. I'm pretty certain they won't. It's kind of expected of Scar, though.

I hope it won't be Mustang or Riza too! But someone close to him will probably die or have a semblence of dying since Lust did a kind of foreshadowing ('those eyes will be filled with pain and grief one day' or something)

If someone would die, I think it would be Mustang but I hope not. He's my fav character. At the same time though he still has to live to become Fuher President because I think that whole conversation between Roy and Ed in the car(where Ed says he'll payback Roy's money when he becomes Fuher President) meant something. Cause that was all very deep and meaningful, why would they throw off that scene by killing off Mustang?

Because ultimately, whether or not Mustang becomes Fuhrer is not very important but rather whether or not the current military government can be cleansed and reformed to a civilian democracy. Mustang is still a soldier--fighting for a greater cause and not for himself--and as such, I think he'll snuff it in the end but in doing so, pave the way for his goal of reforming the military to be achieved.

I also think that Ed, Al, and Winry will probably make it through. After all, aren't the adults doing what they do so that the kids of this generation can live a happy, bloodless life? Of course, there's little chance of these three not having to intimate themselves with bloodshed (and perhaps even participate in it), but still--they are the next generation, they are the future's hope, and they have the potential to move beyond the scars that the adults carry.

And also, let's be honest here--ships can help predict much about who's going to live and die in the end. Essentially, the two relevant ships right now are EdxWin and RoyxRiza, although both are very much in the background. EdxWin seems to be a ship built upon innocence and the sweetness of youth (remember all those comments in the train station when Ed and Al's sending Winry off?), suggesting that something as tragic as death cannot intrude upon its innocence. On the other hand, RoyxRiza's ship seems to be based on not only mutual attraction and affection but also a stern sense of duty. They are both soldiers; they are both ready to lay their lives down on the line for not only themselves but the greater calling of civil responsibility (in the form of reforming the military). I would not be shocked if both Roy and Riza made it out alive, but nor would I be at all surprised if Mustang got dealt in the end. I don't think Riza will die, though. Don't know how to explain it besides gut feeling.

As for Al, well...he's like a little kid. You can't kill off a little kid! And besides, the nominal story arc is based on Ed trying to find the Philosopher's Stone to restore Al to his original body. One can assume that Ed would want Al to continue living after that, too. Therefore, to eliminate Al in the middle or after the conclusion of that greater quest would seem to be quite a letdown.

Personally I don't think any main character is going to die. But I guess it is just a wait and see type thing. I am sure Arakawa will handle it well no matter what.




I am a little confused by this comment? What makes Al a little kid. Unless you are saying Ed is also a little kid because Ed and Al are only a year apart. Al has shown he is just as capable as Ed in many ways (maybe even more so) in terms of fighting and alchemy. I consider both Ed and Al young adults. They are not little kids anymore. That is actually an important part of their characters. In the beginning people viewed them as kids but now they are being viewed as equals. You can even see characters treat them differently such as Roy and Riza.

*nodnod* I totally agree. Ed and Al are not kids anymore. Not only by the way they act (they have much heavier burdens and handle them well, so they are very mature) but is has turned 16 now, hasn't he? In one chapter (I think the one where Ling was introduced) Winry said Ed was turning 16 soon. That's not a 'little kid' anymore. That includes Al, seeing as he is one year younger than Ed. That would mean he is now, what? Fifteen or very close to to turning 15. They may have seemed very young before, but they are definitely not little kids anymore.

Anyways, I agree with just about all the statements here that Ed, Al, and Winry will probably survive, but I also think Mustang and Riza will, too. But I do agree with what ehxhfdl14 said. I think someone very close to Ed, Mustang, and Riza (going military wise) will die.

(So many death theories!!! )

Allow me to clarify my statement a bit.

What I meant by the "little kid" statement is that he comes off more (compared to Ed or the other characters, with the exception of maybe Fuery ) as a kid. Despite being an adult in being cognizant of the dangers and travails of the path that he and Ed have chosen for themselves, I think that he still distinctly maintains a youthful innocence that I think Ed has suppressed for the sake of the bottom line. Look at Al's softheartedness toward stray cats and also his predisposition to speak his feelings more (i.e. when Ed's sleeping on Winry/Pinako's couch after replacing his destroyed automail). What we mostly see is very much an older brother/younger brother relationship between Ed and Al. Ed dedicates himself to protecting Al, and Al is there to back him up and provide him with a human softness when the going gets tough. Although they are both very strong, very capable individuals, Ed is still the archetypal protector, while Al is the (not-so-archetypal) protected. The two both get stronger physically and emotionally through time, but this relationship still exists. When I think of it like this, I think that it is far more likely for the protector to die instead of the protected. Therefore, I don't really think that Al will die.

But more importantly, Al dying would seem to me like kind of a letdown, unless it was something akin to a Shakespearean tragedy where everyone dies in a blaze of glory.

Oh, that makes sense^^

It would be a letdown of Al died, but not all manga series get happy endings. I'm starting to fear none of our favorite characters will live... But that's mostly because of a theory I read on a different site. It was long, but it made so much sense.

Like I said, there are so many death theories!

I still disagree with you. Honestly picking up the stray animals is meant to be humorous and I don't think it should be used to define Al's character. I can say Ed acts like a little kid when he gets angry about his height.

I've always seen Ed and Al as equals. Yes as an older brother (and the fact that he is his only family member) Ed has a protective complex of Al there is no question about that. However this doesn't mean Al needs to be protected. Al can handle himself very well. I also think he is just as emotionally mature as Ed. That doesn't mean Al doesn't look up to Ed he is still his older brother. But I think you are selling Al short. Ed and Al do everything together. If one of them ends up doing something alone they always tell the other what they did. They share with each other their thoughts on things. They have a very healthy relationship. And it is certainly not just one of an older brother protecting his younger brother. Al looks out for Ed's well being too after all. There has been nothing in the story to prove to me otherwise.

I mean I also don't think Al will die but it has nothing to do with him being this sweet little kid. He's not. He is just as much a young adult as Ed. And I think Al has shown on many occasions that he can be just as devious as his older brother. Maybe even more so because he can control his emotions better than Ed.

Here's my take:

1) Ed/Al: before beginning any discussion about these characters' journey, one critical factor must be addressed - Al is a plot device (and no minor one at that). Discounting the trauma of what happened with their mother, he is THE motivation for the brothers' adventures in alchemy. I feel it counter-intuitive to base the entire Fullmetal saga (well, the Elrics' journey anyway) upon the premise that Al be returned to his body only to leave this objective unaccomplished. Arakawa would be spending years of her life meticulously drawing thousands upon thousands of panels for absolutely zero progress where the story really matters. Because of this, I feel there can only be three possible outcomes for this arc...

A. Ed restores Al's body and his lost limbs; the brothers live 'happily ever after'
B. Ed restores Al's body but is unable to retrieve his limbs; the 'bittersweet ending'
C. Ed restores Al's body but dies in the process; the 'angsty' version

Of these three, I feel neither A. nor C. would be appropriate (A. does not fit the overall mood of the manga and C. would be a blatant repeat of the anime), and that B. is the most logical choice (plus it allows for some more EdxWin if she makes it out alive!).

2) The Military: of all the different plot points, I believe this is the most easily resolved (if not in particular, then at least in general terms). The frequent discussions of the sins of the last generation and the approaching age of the youth seem to make the downfall of the military state (and with it the lingering horrors of the Ishbal extermination) in favor of a new, democratic regime seem very likely. Add to this that such an outcome is the stated goal of Mustang and his group and that this scenario is mirrored in the ending of the anime, and you have some very compelling evidence for such a finale.

Things get more complicated however, when we begin to sort through the roles which the various military personnel might play in this resolution:

A. The Fuhrer - although it would be awesome to see a fight between Wrath and Mustang, I don't think such a straightforward battle would do justice to the depth of character which Arakawa has invested in Bradley. I think his monologue against the setting sun in which he states that it will most likely man, not god who brings about an overthrow could have an interesting double meaning. What if instead of being defeated by Mustang and co., the Fuhrer's human side wins out and allows himself to be overthrown, either fighting against the homunculi, allowing himself to die, or surrendering authority? I feel it is an entirely plausible scenario, given Wrath's previous conversation with Pride in which he admits to feeling that the time of the youth is fast approaching.

B. Armstrong - he will make a stand in the final battle to atone for his lack of conviction in Ishbal. I don't see his character as being in any danger of dying. If anyone messes with him, off the shirt will go and out will come the secret techniques of the Armstrong family line. If all else fails, there's always the sparkles.

C. Mustang - tough call; there are so many ways this character could go! I feel he really needs to fight Envy. Granted, his central motivation is to achieve total military power (and hence a confrontation with Bradley), but I feel that the Hughes narrative is in desperate need of some closure. For the entire story, Mustang has been enquiring as to the identity of Hughes' killer - when he finds out it is Envy, there really can be no other alternative than total annihilation. Unfortunately, this raises another problem - namely, what happens to Scar's arc, seeing as Envy is also the instigator of the Ishbalan Massacre? One way to resolve this would be to have Scar die before the Envy/Mustang confrontation, but I'll save that for the section on Scar. On the subject of Mustang's death, I believe it is all but certain. However, it will not happen until after he has kicked some major butt. Go down in a blaze of glory as it were.

D. Riza - another difficult decision; for this one I think I'm going to have to side with TheRainbowConnection's 'ship' reasoning. The RoyxRiza ship is characterized by a deep regret of past mistakes as well as mutual affection and a strong sense of duty. As such, it is ripe for some future tragedy. I think Lust's comment "I look forward to the day when those eyes will become clouded with suffering...that day will come...very soon," is indeed foreshadowing of Riza's demise. This would fit in nicely with the current plot point of her hostage status, and could serve as a catalyst for Roy's opening the Doors, as others have theorized elsewhere. If Envy were the one doing the deed, that would further solidify the necessity of a Roy/Envy duel. Can you imagine the emotional power of that scene?!

E. Havoc - I think Havoc has the best chance of survival among the military members. Hhis role in the Fullmetal finale will be one of two things: a full recovery (Mei Chan) and a place in the final battle; or as the 'survivor' character if Arakawa chooses to kill off several major military characters.

Alright, I think that's enough for now. My head is starting to hurt! I'll post my opinions on other characters' fates at a later time. Great discussion though!

... I love you.

ALL of your theories make perfect sense... (Well, I don't COMPLETELY believe Mustang will die, glory aside. But that's beside the point)

I really haven't thought all of my theories through because most are either true or are rebuked/changed to the progress of the manga. But yours flow with it, and, like I said, make perfect sense!

Are you sure of that? Envy is the enemy of Mustang because he killed Hughes. Scar's enemy is Kimblee because he killed his brother. But Envy and Kimblee are just the henchmen. Mustang and Scar should have the same objectives after this : the higher up, Wrath especially. Perharps even Father, because Scar is the master of destruction. And no creator can win against Father, because he is the master of creation among the alchemists.

I think you misunderstand me a little bit. I am not basing my argument that Al will not die on his sweetness but rather on popular archetypes. This archetype is rooted in the roles of the protector (Ed) and his charge (Al), which is intimated to us as a big brother/little brother relationship. Neither Ed nor Al have to be conscious of this relationship and its implications, nor does Al have to approve or subscribe to it if he is aware of it.

Al is a very strong character, can hold his own, and can match (or almost match) his brother in many aspects and surpass him in a few others. Being a "little brother" and the object of Ed's sense of duty does not necessarily make Al weak, and in fact, it doesn't. Al certainly does not believe that he is deserving of more protection than he would offer Ed, and in this they are equals. However, despite the brothers' being evenly matched or identical in all other respects, I simply cannot shake the intangible feeling of a big brother/little brother relationship between Ed and Al. I see it in the way they talk, interact, and mull on events after the fact. And archetypally (note that the characters themselves are portrayed as almost absolute equals), the older sibling--the big brother--is the protector to his younger siblings. As such, by examining this classic archetype that is preserved through many stories in many cultures, I see Al as the "protected" one in this relationship.

His Name is Unknown:

I have to say that I'm intrigued by and agree with your theories. I really do hope that Arakawa gets around to fleshing out Wrath's storyline sometime soon. Of all the Homunculi, he seems to me to be the most immediately likable and (more importantly) most morally introspective. How are we to think of his character and actions, when his family seems to adore him so much (and vice-versa, presumably) but he knowingly and willfully bends to Father's will and takes human hostages? More importantly to the story, how does he think about it? Is this a sign of human compassion or of a cold ruthlessness based on a deep, impersonal understanding of humans? In him I see the greatest chance for human redemption (through his death, IMHO), as well as the greatest chance for uncaring deceit and for a mechanical sense of purpose. It will be interesting to see how this plays out.

His Name is Unknown, wow. That's some in-depth reasoning. I do believe if Mustang does go down, it'll be after/in a glorious fighting scene, like in Macbeth.

Well, this is a random, sleep-deprived theory that I'm about to throw out, but here's my theory on the way Scar will go out, if he goes out at all:

Before the battle between the Silver Alchemist and Scar, Scar says that he cannot join his god until he has killed every last state alchemist. That statement made me think. He won't be able to kill ALL of the SAs (State Alchemists) will he? Of course not, there's too many. Plus, he's made quite a few enemies, we all know. Well, it seems to me the three alchemists he usually keeps his eyes on are Roy and Ed and Kimblee. Well, I believe Scar will go out fighting one (or all) of them. I think, since Kimblee is connected to the Fuhrer, he's end up fighting Ed or Roy. I think (in a kind of messed up way) Roy and Ed will end up fighting Kimblee and the homunculi with Scar joining in and taking out a homunculus or Kimblee, leaving Roy and Ed to fight him and the rest of the homunculi, with the rest of the military joining in:) Scar's goin' down!

(See, completely crazy idea, huh? Ignore this crappy, spar of the moment theory.)

Man, it's been a long day! Recently, I've been working towards my private pilot's license and today I had to spend the last 10 hours taking an oral/written stage check for flight school.

Anyway, now that I've gotten that out of my system, it's time for more of what everyone is really interested in - theories!

Before I get rolling again though, I'd like to respond to some of the posts made since yesterday evening.

=====================

1st - Alchemical
I hear you there! I'm not entirely convinced of his death myself, but something in my gut just tells me it's going to happen. If you think about it carefully, there are only two logical scenarios for Mustang's character:

A. Mustang lives but bears some terrible injury of the battle (emo eye-patch anyone?)
B. Mustang goes down in a blaze of glory, fighting for (and ultimately achieving) his goal while paving the way for a new generation of peace

I don't know about you, but I would be somewhat disappointed if the manga rehashes the anime - not because it wasn't an interesting direction to take Mustang's character, but because we've already been there. I'm a strong believer that the anime and manga, while agreeing in general tenor, should be as different in the particulars as possible. This makes for two unique and engaging FMA experiences - and let's face it, if the anime was going to borrow that many specifics, it might as well have paralleled the manga exactly (because we all know which has a better story).

To those who cite the exchange between Mustang and Edward (I'll pay you back when you become Fuhrer) as an point against the Mustang dies scenario, realize that this situation could just as easily be used as a poignant reminiscence during Mustang's death as it could be to celebrate his victory. Ed returning the money by putting them atop Mustang's coffin (reminiscent of the placing of coins on the eyes of dead warriors 'for the boat-keeper' in Greek mythology) would be a symbolic gesture of Ed's respect for Mustang's dedication, implying that in his eyes Roy did indeed become the Fuhrer, if only in spirit. Such an ending would also nicely intersect the idea of a 'true king' which Arakawa has been toying with at different points in the narrative. For examples, see Wrath's conversation with Ling and Ed's conversation with Riza (after the Ishbal flashbacks) where she implies that Mustang understands that the achievement of his goal may bring about his death/disownment by the new government.

====================

2nd - Sannom

The problem I was referring to in my original post was not one with Arakawa's narrative, but rather the problem of me being able to figure out a theory to explain it!

Unfortunately, I was just too tired to post my entire Scar theory last night, but I quoted your response because I agree with it entirely. As you will see in a moment, my theory also relies on the 'common enemy' reasoning which you highlighted in your post. But I'll save that for its proper place!

====================

3rd - TheRainbowConnection
Amen to that! Wrath is an extremely well developed character and has potential to be a memorable tragic hero. I hope Arakawa chooses this route for our one-eyed king!

In regards to your query over whether Wrath is motivated out of genuine compassion or a disdain for 'mere mortals', I believe the most telling scene in favor of his humanity occurs just after the Lust/Mustang fight. Bradley is seen standing shrouded in shadow with his hand upon his sword's hilt, ready to strike. It is implied that he has been observing the struggle but chose not to interfere. Such behavior demonstrates his respect for Mustang and explains why Wrath allows him to live, though by all accounts everyone's favorite colonel had learned far to much of the homunculi's plan to be spared. Arakawa creates an interesting relationship between these two in other prominent scenes as well:

A. Wrath has a moment of realization that his adopted son may be his weakness, just as Riza is Mustangs' ("No," he says, "that cannot be my weakness." as he looks wistfully into the distance)
B. The confrontation at the tea table where Mustang tells the Fuhrer of his ambitions to remove him from power (albeit indirectly).

There are many inferences of Wrath's underlying humanity which serve as a foil to his more ruthless nature. Also important to note is the fact that Wrath's most barbaric moment occurs in the Ishbal flashback - an event some 13 years distant. Bradley's emotions and opinions have had plenty of time to be altered by his interactions with humans, and the fact that he is the only homunculus capable of aging also drives home his latent humanity.

====================

4th - Ehxhfdl14

Yay! Glad you approve!

On a side note, Macbeth is awesome! And yes, if Mustang must go, we all know there's only one way for Arakawa to do him in properly. He isn't called the Flame Alchemist for nothing!
====================
Phew! You still with me? Alright, it's really theory time now, I promise.

3) Winry: While some may express concern over Winry's predicament of the last few chapters, I have no fear for her safety. In fact, I feel the 'Winry in danger' plot device to be the weakest of the series (and the reason why some have expressed frustration/disinterest with the recent happenings in the Northern saga). Let's face it - Winry is as much a plot device as Al, if not more so.

Returning to TheRainbowConnection's 'ship' reasoning, the EdxWin boat is characterized by innocence, determination in the face of adversity, and a deep-seated love; the perfect set up for a happy ending if I ever saw one. In fact, all three 'children' in this story (Ed/Al/Winry) have an aura of invulnerability about them which removes much of the tension concerning their welfare. Ed and Al are repeatedly pummeled by their enemies, sustaining serious bodily (or armory ) injuries, and yet always carry on as if nothing had happened. Though Ed's auto-mail is painted in a negative light early in the saga, in practice it seems to be a deadly efficient weapon far superior to an ordinary limb. And now Winry's life is in danger...I just don't buy it.

I predict Winry's survival. This has important implications for my next theory...

4) Scar: If Roy is to fight Envy there would seem to be a problem with our beloved murderous Ishbalan's arc. However, this discrepancy is only skin-deep, and as Sannom so correctly pointed out, Envy and Kimbley are little more than henchmen for the true threat represented by Father and the corrupt military (Bradley). This allows for some interchangeability regarding who fights/kills who. With this in mind, I see only two directions for Scar's character, both of which end in his death:

A. Scar fights and kills Envy, dying in the process; gets 'revenge' for the start of the war
Note: in this scenario, Mustang focuses on Bradley and bringing down the military; the Hughes character arc receives no direct closure
B. Scar fights and kills Kimbley, dying in the process; gets 'personal revenge' for the death of his friends and family
Note: in this scenario, Mustang is free to eliminate Envy; Hughes is avenged; military is also overthrown

Now, just from a cursory glance at these choices, B. is the more pleasing narrative resolution. It allows for both Mustang and Scar to confront their most personal foes while also bringing much needed finality to the tragic story of Brigadier General Maes Hughes. While these merits alone might persuade some (and rightfully so), the benefits of B. run far deeper. As I resolved in a previous theory, Winry is just as much a plot device as Al. If we take her survival for granted, I believe Scar's fate unfolds with startling clarity...

Let's take a step back and assess the situation as FMA prepares to enter Chapter 70.

The facts:

- Scar is in the North
- Kimbley is in the North
- Winry is in the North

The relationships:

- Scar hates Kimbley
- Kimbley is threatening Winry
- Winry is the only person in FMA with a legitimate claim to kill Scar

The narrative:

- Winry is a plot device, and thus death proof by for all practical purposes...
- Yet the past several chapters are structured around the possibility of her death...
- This necessitates a rescue
- Ed/Al are in a very precarious position
- Scar has had meaningful interaction with Winry AND hates her captor vehemently

The Outcome: Scar kills Kimbley and rescues Winry, dying in the process.

With one event, Arakawa could seamlessly resolve a plethora of dangling plot threads. And if the story is indeed about to reach its climax, this would be the perfect act (eerily similar to how the narrative unfolded in the anime, I might add ) to begin the plunge. Some of the benefits of this resolution are listed below:

- Winry is saved without compromising the Elrics
- Kimbley keeps his word and kills Scar
- Scar kills his greatest enemy, getting revenge for the death of his brother
- Scar's character is redeemed
- A final meaningful interaction with Winry could bring closure to her parent's story

Geeze - that's a mouthful. Or should I say page-full. That will have to do for now, because I need a little time to recharge my theorizers.

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts, and I should be back with some more theories in short order!

Dang, are you sure you're not Arakawa-sensei in disguise?

Now, for real now. I hear you completely. I would really, really hate for the manga to go along side the anime’s end. And even if I want Mustang to live, that could mean a very unwanted repeat. Perhaps, though, Mustang could survive without injury, or if it comes to injury, maybe Arakawa-sensei has gotten over her eye-patch love and will give him something else, like a lost limb or maybe something to do with the senses again (you know, eyes in the movie, voice or hearing in the manga)

As for your Winry/Scar/Kimbley theory, I agree. But I also have another theory -- I have a feeling that Scar will get his resolve and kill Kimbley, but I think Winry may be able to finish what she wanted to do: kill Scar. After all, I believe that Mustang and the rest of the military will succeed in paving a better road for the next generations, but I kind of think that Ed, Al, and Winry are too far down that road already to be completely innocent, even after the adults’ effort. I think Winry may lose her child-like innocence by killing Scar. And I am almost completely certain Ed and Al will have to kill eventually.

This is more of a fantasy-theory, seeing as it’s more or less very far-fetched. But I think it makes sense, although just a little bit.

Welcome back, His Name is Unknown! I see you came back with a theorem up your sleeve... No, no one wants a tiresome repeat of the anime, do they? The good thing is, there probably won't be a repetitive sequence of events.

Yes, I believe Winry's survival is definite, and the theory of Scar rescuing her and bringing closure to her parents' death episode is certainly plausible. Scar is viewed as the Antagonist who cannot be truly hated, the Holy Demon. His end might reflect that image (by the means of doing a virtuous deed and dying while doing so). I usually just wait until the new chapter comes out, but I have to admit, this is very intriguing. I also love how you don't shoot down other speculations, and support your answers with facts (which is why I deemed it a theorem, not a theory).

Just before I posted, I realized Alchemical got here before me! Hmm, I don't think Winry would (be able to ) kill anyone, even Scar. Ed and Al would have to kill someone though, and probably it will be Ed who would have to taint his hands (another reference to Macbeth ^^;;) I agree with you that Al and especially Ed has gone too far, but Winry had been mostly shielded in safety and gentleness by Ed, so she would probably remain an 'innocent' character.

Awwwwww, man. It would be so sad if Roy does dies and Ed puts the money on the coffin. Just reading that made my get all teary eyed. But your right that conversation between Roy and Ed (money one) could go both ways. And also, I should have thought of the disscusion between Ed and Riza. Because they did have the whole thing about how by Roy trying to accomplish his goal that he might die or get arrested in the process. This could even be foreshadowing....

Opps, sorry I got there before you

Anyways, I think your right about Winry; she has been shielded from most thing. I guess she more at a crossroads there, hm? Though, I think she's fully capable of killing someone. No, I don't think she'd want to, but she might do it on incident. You know Arakawa-sensei, she likes to spice up things a lot and give the manga all sorts of twists and turns. Or, perhaps, (going back to the bittersweet thing) Ed will kill Scar, but Winry will witness it. We all know what that can do to people... (Aw, shot! I'm becoming to much of a negative person thanks to this! )



Yes, I nearly cried reading that. It would be a very touching scene, wouldn't it? It would probably become a favorite of many fans (including me) But I would hate to actually see it happen. I'm really hoping (against doubts) that Roy and Ed both survive...

I disagree somewhat with this bit. Winry already had her chance to kill Scar. And unlike Scar's attempts to kill Ed, she was not prevented from carrying it out by matters of circumstance. Unlike Scar, who is steadfast in his mission to destroy State Alchemists, it is clear in that scene (in Chapter 48, I think?) that Winry, when she had the gun pointed at Scar, was going through a very difficult internal monologue in her mind. And ultimately, although Ed had to jump in front of her and shield her, it was her choice to not shoot when she could have. She has already made her choice to not bloody her hands so directly, and it wouldn't serve the story well, IMHO, if she were to change from that.

Having said that, I do conceive of one plausible circumstance in which Winry kills Scar. If one or both of the brothers were in absolute mortal danger of being killed (i.e. Ed and Al's close brush with death against Scar when Al got half-destroyed and Ed's automail got shattered) with no chance of escape, I think such a situation could force Winry to drop her role as someone that heals and rebuilds lives and take on the role of a protector that has been driven to destroy. Basically, I can't see Winry killing Scar out of spite for what he did to her parents, but I can maybe see how she could kill him in order to protect the brothers in a dire moment.

But then, the problem with that scenario is that Scar would end up dying in a scene where he is seeking his perverted sense of justice against uninvolved persons instead of seeking retribution from more worthy characters such as Kimbley, Envy, or Wrath. It would be a rather ignoble end for Scar.

All in all, I still stand by my assertion that Winry will not kill Scar. However, it's Arakawa-sensei's story, and anything can happen yet!

Really good theories, His name is unknown, even if I would add something : if Scar dies from Kimblee, with Winry "at his side", I think his last wish will be her to give the Elric the secret of his brother's alchemy. I don't think the Elric will be able to learn Rentanjutsu quickly enough, while Scar's alchemy doesn't seem that hard to learn.

I hava a more "personal" question for you : your alias certainly makes reference to Scar. What do you think of the rumor that Arakawa will perharps give us his real name in the manga? Will you be glat or will you "hate" it?

Hey good thinking! That aspect of what the theory might imply completely slipped my mind. Now that I'm going through it in my mind, it would be very convenient for fulfilling a long-running plot point of Ed/Al learning 'biological alchemy'.



Although I would be happy in either circumstance, it would be a different kind of enjoyment. If Arakawa does reveal Scar's name, the knowledge would be pleasing in a fan-boyish sort of way and I would probably get very excited about the disclosure. However, if she chooses to withhold his name I think her restraint would be better, both for Scar's character and the overall narrative of FMA. So in that sense, I would find greater enjoyment in Arakawa's restraint.

If I had to choose one or the other though, I would unquestioningly stay with the scenario where Scar's name remains unknown. It is after all almost a part of his character.

Scar's alchemy? Ed's already done that. Out of the three stages alchemy has to go through, Scar's alchemy stops at 'destroy'. Ed can very easily do the same thing. But I do think Xing's alchemy would be harder to learn.

I mean the alchemy of Scar's brother, with the reconstruction part. It won't change a lot of things for Ed and Al, but it will permit them to face Father!

And we don't know if Ed can destroy humans or animals with his knowledge... in fact I doubt he can because apparently even Father didn't know how to do it before Scar tried to destroy him!

Oh, I get it^^

You know, I think ALL forms of alchemy in their world will play a part in the end. I know, duh! It's called Fullmetal Alchemist, of course alchemy will play a part! But I think it will have a deeper meaning for the end than people think, you get what I'm saying?

Only a few more days until Chapter 70 comes out (in Japanese, but I don't care).

I think His Name is Unknown's theory is awesome and all too possible, really.

I know! I always tell myself to wait, but I just have to download the RAW. I can only understand a little Japanese, and even if I'm too busy wondering what the pictures mean, I still need the RAW

Yes, I know how you guys feel... *sniff* I too can't read/speak Japeness.

His Name Is Unknown, after reading your theory on page 8, you are now my main man. I salute you, good sir. Excellent reasoning.

Hm, after I read His name is unknown's theories again, I realized I can't really think of anything else and, as Summoner Colette said, they seem all too possible. (That guts is like the king of theories!!)

Still, I'm keeping my fingers crossed for Ed, Roy, and Riza!

You called?

Anyway, I just got back from perusing the chapter 70 RAW (if only I could read Japanese!!! ) and from what I could glean from pictures alone there is at least one MAJOR revelation (*cough* Pride *cough*).

Since this isn't a spoiler thread, that's about all I can say, so get over to the Chapter 70/Chapter 70 Spoiler threads pronto! However, one very interesting thing I can discuss which Arakawa's latest chapter brings to light is just how similar some of the events in the anime and the manga are.

By that I obviously don't mean that the characters or their actions are the same, but, as I mentioned in an earlier post, the general tenor is consistent. When you find out Pride's identity, just try and tell me that it isn't very similar to a certain homunculus/character relationship in the TV series.

In fact, these parallels are becoming so distinct that I might create a thread dedicated to picking them out - at least I think it would be interesting...

^^ The king returns!

Anyways, after all the rumors and then the RAW coming out, I figured Pride would be revealed. I downloaded the chapter, but I haven't looked at it yet. With being a major plot point, I decided I better not put my horrible Japanese into translating it myself because I know I'd kill something. XD I'm going to wait until the chapter is translated by ZOMGFTA, or some other FMA manga website if they translate before ZOMG. x.x I ned to read it so badly!!

I'll keep what you said in mind when I do get to read it. I'm pretty sure you'd get a whole lot of replies if you made that thread!

*waits to read*

Everybody DIES.

When you come and think of it they all done pretty bad things.

Ed and Al kill a few things or people and indirectly cause the death of pretty lot of innocent people

I am leaving the villains out.

roy mustang was a genocidal officer, so he dies too.

Winry have to dies to make it even more tragic.

Ed's dad and the father must die too, but it should really start from there.

Arakawa san can really take inspiration from Ran, get Ed and gsng to screw things up by winning and get killed for it.

Roy Mustang get killed by a crowd of Ishibal refugees swarming him in a rain.

Ed get killed by trying to save his brother

Al get killed by trying to save Ed.

Winry got killed by their enemies, which cause them to do something stupid that requires the above action anyways.

Riz Hawkeye, got killed saving Roy.

Lt Havok got killed being fuhrer after Roy die, by another coup, which happens the same way Roy stage his.

and all other increasingly pointless death.

... You don't really think that, do you? If you do, you must live in a pretty glum place.

You don't need to know JP to figure out Pride's supposed identity from just the issue's content. I did via facial expressions, although I believe the possession theory holds some water.

Of course, you can probably figure it out sooner if the language won't be a problem and you are savvy enough.

...Wow. Okay. That was...how should I put this? Depressing at best. Either you're in a very bad mood right now, or else I would have to agree with Alchemical, you live in a very, very glum world.

Rocks fall. Everyone dies.

Now you're copying DanteA! Is everyone depressed nowadays?

With Chapter 70 I am more and more convinced that the story is reachinh its high point soon.

Yes, I think it's starting to make the climb. It won't be too long until it's at the climax, and that'll be one of the most suspenseful things I've probably ever seen!

It will be interesting to see what Arakawa has in store for us! I hope the ending is happy or at least somewhat happy. I want to see Ed, Al and Winry all happy together.

Forgive me for being a little OT here in response to "everyone dies", but to quote Christopher Eccleston in Doctor Who:

"Everybody lives, Rose! Just this once, everybody lives! "

Yeah, that's not realistic, but neither is everyone dying. I think it will be a little of both.

To those saying the high point will come soon: I think that's because the manga is said to end at around chapter 100. We are at 70 now, afterall.

Maybe soon we will finally learn Father's completely unknown reason for human sacrafices.

It better not be so he and the homunculi can become fully human. I don't think that would be it, I just hope it's not like the anime in that sense.

Yeah, I heard it will stop between ch. 80 and 100. I'm sad it won't be very very long, so it won't end soon, but at least it won't drag like Naruto or One Piece.

We have at least another two years of collecting, though^^ Maybe not that long for scanlations, but we still have a ways to go:)

Exactly. I'm sad it would end, but it's not dragging, so that's good. Lot of mangas are ruined that way.
Even if the series end, I'll still love Hagaren!!