The emergence of Sloth does make things tricky for Ed, but it seems Olivia is perceptive enough to see that Ed knows much more than he lets on. In fact, it seems more than likely it is safe for them to trust her. Though the most disturbing part is the events in this country are shaped like a transmutative circle. Central has been a part of this from the start. They aren’t using this land to serve their plot but rather creating this land to serve the plot. So does that mean this land used to be something else?
As Mei points out, the country’s alchemy is unusual. So if the power of their alchemy comes from people, would that mean the people who used to be here are used in exchange when alchemy is used? Which would be fucked up. The big reveal in all of this is that Hohenheim has been living for so long. In fact, he was so distant to his sons because he was afraid of losing them. This really recontextualizes the memories Ed has because he seemed like a terrible father, but he did it to protect them. Though we can see love broke Hohenheim because he wanted to live and die with his new family. The real question is where and who is Hohenheim?
It is good to see Olivia does not let Central completely have their way. No doubt her men who were underground were more than likely sacrificed. But what was that thing? Even with her taking care of General Raven, Kimblee is under orders from Bradley, so the situation isn’t better. One thing that is clear is that Briggs needs to be protected from Central at all costs. Sadly, the brothers are put in a rough position when Winry is brought up North. Funny enough, Ed would need help with his automail, but this isn’t the circumstance he is looking for. Tension is escalating.