Amestris State Military

An army where alchemy is weaponized and loyalty is tested by blood.

The Amestris State Military serves as the central governing and armed force of the fictional nation where alchemy functions as a leading scientific technique. Rooted in a 20th-century setting, this organization employs State Alchemists—elite individuals granted special ranks and authority—to maintain order across the country. The narrative follows Edward Elric, who, after losing limbs attempting to revive his mother, is advised by Roy Mustang to join this program. As a State Alchemist, Edward travels with his brother Alphonse through Amestris, seeking the Philosopher's Stone to restore their bodies. The military acts as both a backdrop and a driving force, intertwining official duties with the brothers' personal quest for redemption.

Lore & Background

The structure of the Amestris State Military relies on a strict hierarchy led by the Fuhrer, with figures like Colonel Roy Mustang rising through the ranks. Mustang aims to become the next leader of Amestris, relying heavily on his loyal subordinates to propel him forward. However, this path is violently interrupted by the murder of his best friend and confidant, Maes Hughes. Following this event, Mustang begins a behind-the-scenes investigation to find the true culprit. The military's history is deeply scarred by the Ishbalan Extermination Campaign, where survivors like Scar lost family members, leading Scar to initially target State Alchemists because of their role in the slaughter.

Reader's Guide

Navigating the Amestris State Military requires understanding its dual nature: a public defense force and a vehicle for alchemical ambition. Regular citizens interact with officers like Mustang, who holds the title "Flame Alchemist," while others, like Scar, operate outside the law due to past grievances from the Ishbalan War. The military's influence extends into personal lives; Winry Rockbell works in Rush Valley as a promising engineer, yet her connection to Edward makes her a target for Homunculi seeking leverage over State Alchemists.

For those within the ranks, loyalty is tested by hidden truths. Mustang and his team must balance their duty to the Fuhrer with uncovering the conspiracy behind Hughes' death and the existence of the Homunculi. The journey involves traversing from Resembool to Central City, confronting the Gate of Truth, and ultimately deciding whether to serve a corrupt system or dismantle it.

Did You Know?

Edward Elric became the youngest State Alchemist in history at the age of 12.
Alphonse's soul was sealed into a large suit of armor by Edward, making him almost invulnerable.
Winry Rockbell's parents were killed by Scar in a blind rage, though their death is depicted differently in the first anime where they are executed by Roy Mustang.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Amestris State Military?

It serves as the primary governing body and armed force of the nation, utilizing alchemy as a central scientific tool for both development and warfare. The organization employs elite 'State Alchemists' who hold military ranks while wielding their transmutation abilities to maintain national order.

How does the Ishbalan War relate to the Amestris State Military?

This brutal conflict was a campaign in which the State Military slaughtered the majority of the Ishbalan population. The war resulted in massive casualties and serves as a dark historical stain that defines the organization's controversial use of power.