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Reviewed by Joy Kim In Volume 16 of Fullmetal Alchemist, the story returns to the present after the long flashback to the Ishbal campaign in Volume 15. As such, this is very much a transitional volume in the series. The characters are scattering to different parts of Amestris, all intent upon their own goals, but readers only see the beginning of their journeys here. The larger consequences of the decisions made now will have to wait for subsequent volumes. Unlikely partnerships form as characters continue to seek the truth about alchemy and a way to fight the homunculi and their mysterious leader. Scar believes the key may lie in his late brother's research; with Dr. Marcoh and May Chang, he heads north to retrieve his brother's notebooks from the place where he hid them. Meanwhile, Ed and Al are in hot pursuit, because they want to question May about Xing's purification arts. But to chase May, the Elric brothers will have to gain the support of a new character, Major General Armstrong, "The Northern Wall of Briggs." General Armstrong may be Major Armstrong's elder sister, but she has little in common with her soft-hearted younger brother. From the beginning, she makes it clear to the Elrics that she recognizes no priorities except her own; as such, it's uncertain whether she will prove to be an ally, an enemy, or a lone agent in the long run. And even though General Armstrong is another character's sister, she's in no way defined solely by her interactions with male characters. If anything, it's the reverse: her soldiers at Briggs always take their cue from her lead. The introduction of her character to the series is easily the best thing about this entire volume. All of the above this adds up to quality entertainment for fans of this shonen series. Though Arakawa is clearly setting the stage for events in later volumes here, these chapters still have plenty of action, humor, and mystery to hold readers' interest. And amidst all this hustle and bustle, Arakawa never forgets to pause for smaller moments, like an unexpected family reunion or a quiet conversation between Ed and Al. These quieter scenes are just one of many reasons why Fullmetal Alchemist remains highly recommended. The volume includes the usual assortment of light-hearted extras (gag comics, author notes) at the end of the book. Comment on this review of Fullmetal Alchemist v16 on the Manga Life Forums. |
6 October 2009
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