After the death of their mother, Edward and Alphonse Elric attempted to use the forbidden science of human alchemy in a failed attempt to resurrect their lost parent. The alchemy carried a heavy price, as Edward lost his leg, and Alphonse sacrificed his entire physical body. In exchange for his own right arm, Edward was able to transfer his brother's soul inside a huge suit of armor. Years later, Edward (now with two mechanical limbs) and Alphonse (still trapped in the armor) leave their childhood home in search of the fabled Philosopher's Stone, in hopes that it will allow them to regain their original bodies. As their journey progresses, Edward's natural talent for alchemy becomes legendary, and he is soon known everywhere as the "Fullmetal Alchemist."