Roy Mustang, 18 years of age, has joined the military and meets his rival, and best friend Maes Hughes. Throughout, they push each other to their limits and meet an Ishvalan named Heathcliff Erbe and the three of them form a short-lived friendship until the Ishval Civil War. During the war, Maes is required to shoot Heathcliff to save Roy, a decision which tears Roy apart, making him speak against the war for causing them to kill countrymen. Maes shows him his determination and gives Roy time to pull himself together.