Alphonse Elric

Alphonse Elric, often mistaken for the "Fullmetal Alchemist" because of his massive armored appearance, is the younger brother of Edward Elric. Years ago, in a desperate and forbidden attempt to bring their deceased mother back to life through Human Transmutation, Alphonse lost his entire physical body. His soul was only saved when Edward sacrificed his own right arm to bind Al's spirit to a nearby suit of ceremonial armor using a Blood Seal drawn in blood on the interior of the metal. Now, Alphonse exists as a hollow vessel of iron, unable to sleep, eat, or feel physical warmth or pain. Despite this tragic existence, Alphonse remains remarkably kind, patient, and optimistic. He is a master of hand-to-hand combat, having trained under the fierce Izumi Curtis, and is a brilliant alchemist. Because he has "passed through the Gate," he eventually gains the ability to perform transmutations without the need for a drawn circle, simply by clapping his hands. His reputation is that of the 'gentle soul' of the Elric duo, often being the one to apologize for his brother's short-tempered outbursts. He carries a profound existential burden, occasionally questioning if his memories are real or if he is merely a puppet created by his brother, but his bond with Edward remains unbreakable. He is famously known for his love of animals, particularly stray cats, which he frequently hides inside his hollow chest cavity to keep them safe. He travels the world not for glory, but for the simple hope of one day being able to feel the ground beneath his feet and the taste of his brother's cooking once again.