Legend tells of a mystical artifact that when used will increase it's possessor's power a thousand fold. Anyone possessing this artifact could in theory produce an elixir of extraordinary power that would heal all injuries, and give them everlasting life. It is rumored to be red; a brilliant, sparkling crimson rivaling the most precious jewel in any museum. The stone's power is equal to the greatest of Nature’s fury and beauty alike.

Even in the hands of the most ordinary person the stone's potential is amazing. But in the hands of an Alchemist, its power becomes godlike. Only an Alchemist knows the deeper secrets of the stone. By tapping in to the stone’s most elemental levels the Alchemist is able to transmute human life, the most forbidden of all Alchemical practices.

Many have sought out the stone's power; all have failed. But a new adventurer has taken up the quest. A young State Alchemist seeks to right a most horrific wrong. His quest will determine the ultimate fate of an entire nation...and for himself. To seize the stone would allow him to restore life to those he loves, but it will also make it possible for the State Military to obliterate countless more. It is this burden that the young Alchemist bears. The power to create is but a breath away from the power to destroy. His name is Edward Elric. And he seeks the Philosopher's Stone.