At the beginning of the volume, we got some nice focus on Winry. After all, she has watched as the Elric brothers set eyes on their goal, but she has been left behind. We can see that pains her, and she wants to help contribute in her own way. Plus, being able to become Dominic’s apprentice is a big boost.
Though the experience was pretty beneficial for the Elric brothers because they got to see life created in front of their eyes. As they failed to bring their mother back, perhaps things are only meant to be created through natural means. Though it does seem hypothetically possible to create life, which is called a homunculus. It is clear that their teacher had trouble giving birth to her baby.
Izumi is their teacher, and compared to their mom, who seemed like a sweetheart, Izumi shows tough love. Though it is clear that she cares for them. She mentions seeking out Hohenheim, but he is the Elric Brothers’ father. It seems clear that he was distant from them, and the brothers have a hatred since he left Mom alone. You can understand why they feel this way.
As the brothers tell Izumi everything that has happened, we see how they met Izumi. Despite being what seems like a retired alchemist, it was their best shot. Of course the brothers are of what we assume would be the same age as her child if he were alive. Now it isn’t clear what the issue is. It will be curious to see how the brothers ended up overcoming Izumi’s training.