Based on the discovery that Al’s soul is housed in armor while his body potentially still exists elsewhere, Ed theorizes a connection between their physical states. He suspects his own stunted growth and constant exhaustion may be because he is effectively "eating and sleeping" for both himself and Al’s body, which is likely still alive within the Gate of Truth. Thematic & Character Insights
After years of absence, Van Hohenheim returns to Resembool and meets Edward at Trisha's grave. Their encounter is tense; Hohenheim remains emotionally distant, focusing on technicalities rather than fatherly warmth, which infuriates Ed. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood Episode 20
A flashback reveals a younger Pinako Rockbell, showing that she and Hohenheim have a long-standing history that predates Trisha's birth. Based on the discovery that Al’s soul is
The episode touches on the weight of truth. While Ed and Al learn more about the nature of their failed alchemy, they choose to withhold certain truths from Winry to protect her, a recurring theme of "protection through silence" in the series. Production Notes While Ed and Al learn more about the