Ep 21. Advance of the Fool

In Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood season 1 episode 21 titled "Advance of the Fool," Edward and Alphonse Elric arrive in the country of Creta hoping to find Marcoh’s research notes. However, they are intercepted by an officer named Captain Buccaneer who takes them to meet the leader of the Cretan military, Major General Olivier Armstrong.

The Elric brothers quickly learn that the Cretan military is in a state of unrest due to a recent announcement that the country will be going to war with their neighboring country, Drachma. Major General Armstrong informs Edward and Alphonse that they must participate in a test of courage in order to earn their place in helping Creta.

The test of courage involves navigating an underground labyrinth in the military base, and the brothers are soon introduced to two other participants, Falman and Fuery from their former military unit. As they delve deeper into the labyrinth, they encounter various traps and illusions that test their bravery and wit.

During their journey, the group stumbles upon a secret room containing alchemical research notes, including the same ones they were searching for. However, their excitement is short-lived as they are ambushed by a group of enemy soldiers who had infiltrated the base.

In a thrilling display of alchemy and combat skills, the Elric brothers and their companions are able to fend off their attackers and make their way back to the surface with the research notes. Major General Armstrong is impressed with the group's heroism and allows them to assist in the war effort.

Meanwhile, back in Central City, Colonel Mustang meets with Ling Yao, the Prince of Xing who is also on a mission to obtain immortality through the Philosopher’s Stone. Mustang and Ling discuss their individual goals and agree to a temporary alliance.

Overall, "Advance of the Fool" serves as an exciting action-packed episode that showcases the Elric brothers' bravery and resourcefulness as they work to obtain the necessary information to continue their search for the Philosopher's Stone. The episode also sets up potential future plot developments with the introduction of Ling Yao and his motivations.