Fullmetal Alchemist is set in the early 20th century, in a country called Amestris in an alternate-historical Earth with technology dating from early 20th century Europe. In this alternate world, the pseudoscience of alchemy is heavily used, but takes on a further fantastical element than real-life alchemy. Talented alchemists can become the Amestris military\'s State Alchemists, if they so choose. There are many benefits (and also consequences) to becoming a state alchemist. Against this backdrop, the series portrays the quest of the young Edward Elric, the Fullmetal Alchemist, and his younger brother Alphonse for the legendary Philosopher\'s Stone. Their adventures lead them to discover the truth about their past and the world they live in.