For the people of the Fullmetal Alchemist World, the disappearance of alchemy was, in some sense, a form of progress.
With alchemy around before, technological development had been relatively constrained, especially after alchemy was used in combat and methods for creating the Philosopher's Stone appeared.
Slaughter, bloodshed, and similar events had followed.
There had even been plans like that of the Dwarf in the Flask, who had wanted to destroy tens of millions of people in one stroke.
"Ah, it's a little strange without alchemy, but this is pretty good too."
Back in the countryside, Edward sat on the roof repairing the leaks. Looking up at the sky, his expression was remarkably calm.
Alphonse's body and Edward's limbs had both been restored by Xu Yue as a matter of convenience.
After all, the two had worked with him for quite some time. He naturally did not mind doing them a small favor.
"Yeah. I hope Big Brother Xu Yue and the others are doing well too..."
Meanwhile, in the village, Von Hohenheim placed a bouquet of flowers before the grave of Edward and Alphonse's mother, then revealed a self-mocking smile.
"For beings from the upper realm like us, every projection is a part of ourselves. However, with Deva Path's assistance during ascension, the projection can no longer affect one's emotions. After returning to the upper realm, I am still the Legendary Alchemist I was before. The emotions and memories of the lower realm are merely passing visitors."
"Still, I don't reject this feeling."
With his hands in his pockets, Xu Yue stood guarded by Aili and Teruhito behind him as he looked up at the sky.
"I caught a glimpse of the vastness of the upper realm before. Once I sort things out here, I'll probably go up as