Edward Elric

FullMetal Alchemist
Edward Elric is the main character in the popular Japanese Anime Fullmetal Alchemist . In this series Edward and his younger brother Alphonse study what is known as alchemy. Alchemy is used to decompose and reconstruct a substance into a new form with different properties, this process is known as a transmutation. In the world of alchemy there is a law of "equivalent exchange", which states: to obtain, something of equal value must be lost. When Edward and Alphonse attempt to use alchemy to resurrect their mother from the dead, they break the laws of equivalent exchange and are punished. As a result of the transmutation Edward lost his right arm and left leg, in order to save Al's soul and bind it to a suit of armor. In order to restore their bodies, the two embark on a journey to find the mystery behind what is known as "the philosophers stone," a stone that allows alchemists to evade the law of equivalent exchange within alchemy.

Hero of the People
Edward's understanding of alchemy leads him at the age of 12 to become the youngest state alchemist. He is given the call sign 'FullMetal' which refers to his prosthetic limbs or automail. State alchemists serve in a special branch of the military, and are considered some of the most powerful and talented alchemists. Many civilians see state alchemists as "dogs of the military," claiming they have sold their soul as a trade off for special grants and privileges. Despite this claim, Edward uses alchemy to help many of these "small" people along his quest to retrieve the Philosopher's Stone, becomes famous for his kindheartedness and is seen as a "hero of the people".

Character
Despite his short stature, and young age, Edward has seen much destruction and much tragedy. Edward's father left he and his brother Alphonse at a young age. Attempts to alert their father about his wife's sickness were of no use and the two brothers were then left as "orphans". After he and his brother were punished by the law equivalent exchange, Ed vowed to restore both of their bodies. He became a state alchemist to gain funding and the ability to search for the philosopher's stone in an effort to make things right. Edward is selfless and holds himself responsible for the awful things that happened to he and Alphonse. He often goes out of his way to help those in need, using his unusual talent and understanding of alchemy to do what he feels is right.

2 Brothers
Edward Elric is my hero for many different reasons, but primarily Ed found a certain home in my heart with the Fullmetal Alchemist series because of the extreme bond he has with his brother Al. I have great relationships with many friends, but there is nothing like having a connection with another blood relative like a brother. My brother is my best friend and therefore I sympathize with Ed's quest to do ANYTHING to return his brother Alphonse back to a normal state. The story of Fullmetal Alchemist itself is compelling, but I am very tied to the bond of Edward and Alphonse and the challenges they face together as two brothers and best friends willing to put their lives on the line for one another.

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