: Edward is noted for maturing in this episode; he starts acting more strategically and building alliances (such as with Mustang) rather than reacting on whim. Other Possible Contexts

: Fuhrer King Bradley thwarts Edward's attempt to resign by threatening to kill Winry Rockbell, leaving the Elric brothers in a desperate position.

In this episode, the "Fools" (Edward, Alphonse, Roy Mustang, and Ling Yao) realize the true scale of the conspiracy within the Amestrian military and are effectively cornered.

The title "Struggle of the Fool" draws on the archetype from Tarot (Card 0), representing the beginning of a journey or a leap of faith.