Summary:
The chapter opens with Major General Olivier Armstrong reflecting on her family’s history and the importance of Fort Briggs to the defense of Amestris. Meanwhile, Ed and Al are shown arriving at the fort accompanied by Major Miles.Upon entering, they are greeted by the sight of soldiers training in harsh winter weather. Olivier introduces himself and informs them that they are here to help investigate the recent coup in Central City. She also warns them not to get in her way.As they begin to discuss the situation, a soldier rushes in to inform Olivier that an intruder has been spotted near the base. She orders Ed and Al to accompany her on her search and soon encounters a young girl named May Chang who is looking for her pet panda Xiao Mei.May reveals that she is from the land of Xing and has come to Amestris to find the secret of immortality. She is surprised to find that Ed and Al are also looking for the same thing, but for different reasons.As they continue their search for Xiao Mei, Olivier reveals that Briggs’ fortress was built on the site of an ancient city that was destroyed by a powerful alchemical reaction. He also explains that the soldiers at Briggs are trained to survive in extreme conditions and are the strongest in the US military.They eventually find Xiao Mei and May reveals that she has a unique ability to communicate with animals. As they head back to the fort, Olivier warns Ed and Al that they are entering a dangerous situation and that they should be careful.The chapter ends with May expressing her desire to find the secret of immortality, and Ed and Al pondering the possible consequences of such knowledge.