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fullmetalscullyy · 4 years

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the way it was - chapter 3

you are the gravity that steadied me

summary: what if riza never went to war? riza hawkeye has just married the man she loves. six months into their marriage, an unexpected surprise stops her from following roy to the military. a canon divergence au that explores what might have happened had riza been unable to join the military. there will be plenty of family fluff, angst, and royai.

rated: m | warnings: no archive warning apply

chapter 2 | read on ao3

1909

you are the gravity that steadied me

“Rebecca?” Riza’s voice was strained as she called for her friend through the phone.

“Riza?” Her voice was full concern. “What’s wrong?” There was an edge to her voice. A hint of panic.

“My water just broke.”

“Oh… Oh shit. Okay, don’t worry, I’m coming right now.” There was a rustle of paper through the receiver. “Don’t move, okay? Stay right there. I’m on my way.” The panic was back as it sounded like she was scrambling to get away from her desk. The line went dead and Riza nodded anyway, as if her friend could see her.

Riza let out a hiss of pain another contraction hit her. Fumbling, she finally managed to put the phone back in its place. She painfully made her way over to her couch. Practically falling onto the cushions, Riza closed her eyes tightly against the sharp wave of pain. It was short, but it was intense, feeling like it went on forever. It felt like her insides were in a vice, being squeezed tightly without relent. Panting, Riza let out a low wail as she began to sob, wishing it would just stop. As the wave passed, her eyes popped open and stars danced in her vision. Struggling to catch her breath, Riza lay on her couch in a heap. Tears dropped down her cheeks thick and fast as she tried to recover. Trying not to think about how another contraction would be on its way soon, Riza squeezed her eyes shut tightly and willed Rebecca to be here soon. The ten minute drive over would stretch on for what felt like a lifetime, Riza just knew it.

Over and over in her head, Riza reminded herself that she wouldn’t be doing this alone. Rebecca was on her way right now…

But they wouldn’t let her in the delivery room. Roy was supposed to be in there with her. He was still in Ishval. She’d be all alone.

Sobs wracked her body endlessly. As another contraction hit her, Riza cried out loudly. She wanted Roy. She wanted him here.

“Riza?” Rebecca called into her apartment. She must have followed the sounds of her crying because she ran over and threw her arms around Riza’s neck. “It’s okay. I’ve got you. We’ve got this,” she reassured her. That panic from earlier was gone. In its place was confidence and assurance.

“I want him here,” Riza sobbed.

“I know you do, sweetie. Roy will be here soon, but we’ve got to meet your kid first, okay? You can do this. You won’t be alone. I swear to you.”

If she hadn’t been nine months pregnant, about to give birth, and extremely hormonal, Riza would be embarrassed by her desperate plea. She’d managed this far on her own, why was she breaking down now? Why this moment, of all the times to lose it?

“Riza, it’s normal,” Rebecca had reassured her. Her eyes popped open. Riza hadn’t even realised she’d voiced her thoughts out loud. “You’re hormonal, you’re about to give birth, and you’re not alone,” Rebecca added fiercely. Her grip on Riza’s body tightened as they shuffled painfully to her front door. “You’ll never be alone, not while I’m here.”

Chance had allowed Riza to find Rebecca Catalina in her time of need, as Roy was shipped off to war. She was extremely fortunate to have met her, and Rebecca’s presence was something Riza would be grateful for, for the rest of her life. She’d been a godsend throughout this pregnancy and Riza would never forget that.

“Sorry,” Riza whispered, sniffing loudly. She was managing to calm herself. She could do this. She’d managed it all so far. What was one more day?

One day at a time, Riza.

Rebecca chuckled. “There’s nothing to apologise for. Now, let’s go and meet your kid, shall we?” Riza’s eyes filled with tears once again, but she nodded firmly.

Taking a deep breath, Riza steadied her nerves. She stood slightly straighter as Rebecca escorted her out of her apartment. They only stopped for Rebecca to sling the overnight bag over her shoulder. Riza had packed and left it at the front door in case of an emergency like this.

I can do this. Riza grit her teeth against another contraction and let out a growl as she rode through it while Rebecca hurried her into her already running car.

Riza was always one to keep the peace and not cause a scene because if she did as a child, her father would either scoff in disgust or yell at her. She’d learned to burden it all. Being pregnant had flipped all of that on its head, but it still resided inside of her. She’d been left sobbing at times about the fact that Roy wasn’t here with her. Others, she’d chuckled to herself about what a surprise he’d get when he returned home. It was incredibly sad, that he wouldn’t be here to witness the birth of their child, but it wasn’t the end of the world. Riza knew this, and knew he’d be here if he could. Such is life, after all. She’d reasoned with herself that he’d have a hell of a surprise to return to. Her mind always had to have the last word, though. If he even comes back. If the same man returns to you.

Her actions were frustrating, more than anything. She’d survived as a child. She’d looked after herself, her father, and Roy when she was just a teenager. She could deal with this herself, so why was she crying out for him the second everything hit the fan? She wasn’t alone. Rebecca was here. In her heart, Roy was right beside her, the voice in her head whispering to her that she would be fine. You can do this.

I can do this.

Riza gripped Rebecca’s hand harder, gritting her teeth but emitting no sound as another contraction hit.

It was time to say hello to her baby.

* * *

Fourteen hours later, Riza was lying in bed, exhausted, with a baby in her arms.

Like Rebecca had promised, Riza wasn’t alone while delivering the baby. She’d been out of it due to the pain wracking her body, but Riza heard Rebecca arguing with a nurse or a doctor about being permitted into the room.

“I don’t care,” Rebecca had spat. “That woman’s husband has been away fighting in Ishval during her whole pregnancy and if you think for a second that I’m going to leave her to deliver this baby alone, you’ve got another thing coming.” Damn, Rebecca could be scary. Riza would have told her not to worry just to keep the peace, but a long wail escaped her as the nurse announced it was time to deliver the baby. Rebecca dived to her side, gripping her hand tightly. Riza clenched it hard, the feeling of her friend’s support, anchoring her to reality.

Just push Riza. Push and then you can meet her, and it will all be over.

Riza met her daughter after what felt like a blur of movement and pain.

It was all over. The screaming baby at the other end of the bed confirmed it.

When labour had hit, everything she’d been feeling about the birth - the worry, the fear, the loneliness - crashed into her at once. She’d been crying – something she hated – and it worked her up even more, making her feel even worse. Now, after the birth, with her perfect baby in her arms, Riza was crying at the silliest of things. It had happened so often, that at this point – two hours later – Riza had given up and accepted her fate. After a while, crying didn’t seem too bad anymore. She still hated the way it made her feel so vulnerable, but she had to admit… She did feel a bit better after letting it all out. Rebecca, of course, was thoroughly amused by this new hormonal, crying Riza.

“I didn’t know you were such a crier, Riza,” she’d grinned jokingly.

“Shut up,” Riza had grumbled, but her voice wobbled as she wiped away her tears. Being hormonal sucks, she thought petulantly.

Tears were shed over her baby girl’s face, and her perfect, tiny fingers and toes. She had an adorable, small nose. Curious, Riza had quickly checked her daughter’s eye colour, and was overjoyed to see she’d inherited her father’s. She had his almond shaped eyes, too, as well as a mop of black hair.

“Tough break, kid,” Rebecca had commented after meeting her, making Riza laugh through her tears. Happy tears, though.

She had a baby girl. She had a daughter who was the perfect blend of her and the man she loved with her whole entire heart. She couldn’t wait to show him.

Rebecca swore their little one had Riza’s face. “She totally looks like you! I can definitely see it.”

Riza shook her head. “She looks more like Roy than me.”

“I mean, in obvious features, she does.” Rebecca pulled back the top of the swaddle to reveal more of her daughter’s face. “But you’re definitely in there too. I can see it.” Her tone was so self-assured and determined. Riza was glad her little girl was a perfect mix of both parents.

Roy’s family arrived the next day. Rebecca had called them, and Chris and a few of his sisters hopped on the first train out to East City. Chris entered first, making a beeline straight for Riza. She sat by her bedside, scrutinising eyes meeting Riza’s apprehensive ones. Riza was on edge, sensing an interrogation was coming just by the look on Chris’ face.

“How are you doing?”

Riza just blinked back at her, feeling slightly nervous. Roy’s sisters cooed over their niece lovingly, either oblivious to their conversation or just used to Chris’ gruff demeanour. “I’m fine,” Riza replied.

Chris’ eyes narrowed. “Really?” she asked doubtfully.

Tears sprung to Riza’s eyes with uncertainty. This woman hadn’t necessarily seen right through her – she truly did feel fine until Chris had brought it up – but her mother-in-law had experienced enough conversations with Riza over the term of her pregnancy for Chris to know when she was saving face. Besides Roy, Chris Mustang had seen more of Riza and what she held inside her heart and mind than anyone else. The woman had become her confidant while he was away, and it was the most liberating experience being able to share her worries about him fighting over there and what would happen when, or if, he came home. Once alone, that was when Riza would let it all out. She couldn’t do it now, in front of Roy’s sisters.

So yes, in that moment, she was fine. However, she was trying not to think about going home. What was scaring her was going back to that empty apartment and living with her baby girl all by herself.

That was terrifying.

One step at a time. One day at a time, as it’s always been.

“For now, yes.” She’d taken a deep breath and for the first time in months, managed to control her emotions. Riza would never take that ability for granted again. “I’m okay.”

“I’ll be staying at the East City Hotel until Roy Boy comes back home.” That surprised Riza, and apparently her expression showed it. “You didn’t think I’d leave you here to do it all yourself, did you?” she asked, although it felt more like an accusation.

“Oh, no,” Riza stumbled over herself to answer. “It’s okay, don’t trouble yourself –”

“This is my grandkid,” Chris interrupted. “Of course, I’m going to trouble myself.” Riza promptly shut her mouth. An overwhelming urge to respond with “yes ma’am” was squashed. Somehow Riza didn’t think Chris would appreciate that. “I better go say hello, huh?” Before she stood, hesitantly, Chris placed her hand on top of Riza’s. “Let me know if you need anything, all right?”

“I will,” Riza accepted. She just watched as Chris made her way to the bottom of the bed. She stared at her granddaughter, then broke out into a proud smile. Roy’s sisters backed up, the three of them watching Chris interact with her grandchild, smiling.

“Hey there, little one.”

Today seemed to be full of surprises, because Riza had never heard the woman use that tone before. She was always gruff, abrupt, and Roy told Riza she firmly believed in tough love while he was growing up. To witness this… It was someone completely different from the Chris Mustang Riza had come to know. It was fascinating. She couldn’t wait to see what other reactions her baby girl drew from this woman with the hard as hell outer shell. Riza felt tears prick her eyes and in a private moment – because all eyes were fixated on her daughter – Riza rolled them, wiping at her eyes with the back of her hand.

“Do you have a name?” Vanessa asked quietly, not wanting to invade the incredibly sweet moment between Chris and her granddaughter.

They’d decided on names the morning before Roy left. It was a spur of the moment decision, but both their choices sounded right. Standing in their kitchen, with Roy’s arms around her, Riza had agonised over the boy’s name. Even to this day, she still didn’t have one. That was hers to choose, whereas Roy had made one request, if it was a girl.

“Can she be called Mia?” he’d asked softly as his hands rubbed circles on her back. “After my mother?” His breath had hitched quietly, and Riza could never say no to a request like that.

“She’s called Mia,” Riza whispered, remembering that moment. Chris’ head snapped up. One eyebrow raised up and Riza nodded to her unspoken question. “After Roy’s mother.” The three sisters let out a collective sigh.

“A beautiful name for a beautiful girl,” Vanessa cooed, stroking Mia’s cheeks.

“Thank you,” Chris nodded.

“It was Roy’s choice,” Riza revealed, finding she had to take a deep breath once again to try and keep her emotions steady, so she wouldn't cry. Again. “It was the one name he requested, if it was a girl. I couldn’t say no.”

“When did you decide?” Rosalie asked absentmindedly, unable to tear her eyes off Mia.

Taking control didn’t work. Her emotions were spilling over, but this was different from before. There was a pain in her chest that gripped her heart tightly, refusing to let go.

“The morning he –” She had to stop herself. Riza closed her eyes, feeling the tears come. Not again, she pleaded with herself. Covering her face, her shoulders began to shake.

Arms encircled her body tightly, followed by another set..

“Come here,” Roxanne beckoned, kissing the top of her head. That made her cry harder, unable to hold back anymore. “Don’t worry, hon, he’ll be back soon. I know it.”

“Yeah,” Vanessa agreed. Her arms were looped around Roxanne’s while Rosalie gripped Riza’s hand tightly in comfort. “And boy do you have a surprise for our Roy Boy,” she exclaimed, making the girls laugh. Riza found herself letting out a small laugh as well.

“He has no idea what’s going to hit him. His face will be a picture!” They all laughed once again.

“Don’t worry, okay?” Roxanne assured her. “We’re here for you. We’re not going back to Central until he comes home. What kind of a family would we be, if we did that?”

“Thank you,” Riza breathed. She felt her body being squeezed. Their hugs brought instant comfort that she desperately needed. “And I’m sorry,” she added, her voice just a mumble. “I’m such a mess,” she huffed.

“Don’t be silly,” Vanessa scolded lightly. “It’s completely understandable. Don’t worry, your sisters are here for you. Besides, if he’s gone any longer, I’m going to drag my hopeless brother back here myself! Imagine leaving to put you through all of this?”

“It wasn’t his –”

“I’m just kidding,” Vanessa reassured her lightly. “But not about dragging him back. Imagine the military making him leave a pregnant eighteen-year-old? It’s shameful, is what it is!”

Riza felt Roxanne shake her head, her lovely, long, brown locks brushing against Riza’s. “It really is Vanessa. You’ve got it absolutely right!”

As they were all leaving, Chris hung back. The sisters were outside the room, discussing where they were going to eat dinner that night.

“I’ll be back first thing tomorrow and we’ll take you home, all right?”

“That would be great. Thank you so much.”

“And, don’t worry too much, Riza dear.” She paused, as if considering her next words carefully. “I’m friends with people in high places,” she stated cryptically, shooting Riza a pointed look. “Roy Boy won’t be long in returning to us.”

Riza felt her stomach drop like a stone.

“What?”

“I have it on good authority he’ll be back here within the week.”

It was just like Chris Mustang to drop this bombshell on her like this.

“What?” Riza breathed.

“The war’s over. They’re sending everyone home.” Riza was mute. “I’ll see you tomorrow, Riza.”

And just like that, she was gone.

Riza was reeling.

“Did you hear that, Mia?” Riza asked in a daze, staring at the closed door to her hospital room as her daughter began to stir in her cot. “Daddy is on his way home to us.”

#royai #royai fic #royai fanfic #royai au #the way it was #emma writes

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houkuaichuii · 6 years

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Photograph

Third theme!

Can also be found on ff.net and AO3!

If there was one thing that everyone’s noticed about the lieutenant, it was the aspect that she was barely one for jewellery. In all of the years that they’ve known her, they have only ever actually seen her wear nothing more than the silver studs that were pierced into both of her earlobes. In fact, rumour had it that they were a gift from a certain man whom they all followed; although like any stories that usually involved the private matters between the two, the case remained unconfirmed.

Though little did they know, under the layers of uniform that the lieutenant faithfully wore to work every day, a tiny locket was clasped around her neck apart from her dog tags.

It was a small thing, no bigger than one’s thumb. It was, however, big enough to fit a rare photo. Again, nobody --- with the exception of the giver --- knew about this locket, this hidden secret she kept so close to her heart at all times. She wore it day in and day out, thinking of it as something sort of a remnant from a childhood lost long ago. It was also of simple oval design; nothing too fancy or extravagant, her initials outlined on its cover, whereas the back was merely embellished with a soft flowery decoration in note of femininity. Its texture was smooth against her milky skin, light in comparison to the weight she often had on her shoulders. There were even days when she would suddenly wonder whether she had put it on that morning, her hand immediately going against the space of her chest in search for its shape beneath her uniform. If any of the men were paying attention to her during times like these, they would most likely have noticed the way relief plays within the amber hues of her eyes, a breath released slowly but surely, and the hint of a smile taking its place upon her lips.

Who knew that a locket described with naught but the word ‘simplicity’ could be regarded with high importance. Then again, all the casing did was to protect what was hidden in the inside.

The first time she did not wear the ornament for days, was during her stay at the hospital.

After the check-up and the clean-up of her wounds, her used clothes were folded neatly and placed into a brown paper bag; the locket safely placed into a small pouch on top of her items. As she wasn’t able to wear it during the first week at the hospital (it will be a hassle when it comes to changing the bandages, the nurses told her, and it is safer if it remains in the bag. Don’t worry, Lieutenant.), it was difficult for her to ignore the fact that something had been missing from her person.

Every once in a while, her hand would go to her bandaged neck and those who came to visit would brush it off as her just thinking of the recent battle. And when they asked whether she felt any pain, the woman merely shook her head in reassurance that she was all right, and that it was just hard to not feel the cloth. They seemed to understand her, of course, dropping most of their worries right there and then, all the while her mind wandered to the paper bag at the corner of the room

But at some point, the secret of the locket was somewhat revealed.

It had happened during her fourth day in the shared room with the colonel, the current members of the team gathered around them as they discussed the plans for the future. Even with the obstruction of their leader’s lost of sight, none of them failed to perceive the fire that remained unvanquished internally; determination radiating off of him wholeheartedly. Having had shifted his focus away from the role of leading a country, he settled on simply rebuilding the land of Ishval as best as he could, deeming it to be his responsibility to do so.

And in the midst of the discussion, Breda leaned his weight back against the edge of the table and pushed the bag off unknowingly.

Silence had spread throughout the room, all attention going to the small sack that had skid across the floor and lay bare in the middle of the space. Nevertheless, the Second Lieutenant apologised not a moment too late, picking up the fallen items. But when he took the pouch from the floor, the silver locket slid out of its confines through the loose opening, raising curiosity amongst them.

“Oh? Never took you one to having something like this, Lieutenant.” Breda said, picking up the necklace with an inquisitive gaze in pure wonder. Fuery took a step closer towards him in the meantime, the same expression nearly plastered across his youthful appearance. Hawkeye, however, chose to remain silent as her eyes caught onto the item, that ache on top of her chest making itself known once again, only to be damped down by the feel of the cut against her neck.

“Have what?” It was the colonel’s turn to speak up.

“The lieutenant has a locket.” Fuery answered, examining the piece held up by the other officer.

“Oh?”

“It’s nothing relatively special, you can put it away now, Breda.” Her voice may have been quiet, but every single tone of firmness was very well heard. In respect to her privacy (and the matter of the fact that it sounded entirely too similar to an order), the man was just about to put it away when the colonel raised his hand in a motion that said ‘stop’.

“Wait, hand it over here for a minute.”

Both Breda and Fuery looked over to Hawkeye in question, who had sighed before giving her consent. With that, Breda did as he was told and slowly placed the necklace onto the colonel’s held out palm, letting the locket down first before having it followed by its chain. Then in what could have been said as a subtle act, the Roy Mustang behind the facade of a soldier and team leader came out.

There was a smile etched upon his tired features, his fingers playing with the locket--- feeling its casing in the dark. Everyone watched him attentively, not a single word said. He held onto it for long, a chuckle released as he turned it from back to front, front to back, with a ghost of a grin soon making its appearance. So the men began to wait for a teasing remark, judging by the glint of mischief that they knew would have had appeared in his dark eyes were they not dulled.

It never came out.

“All right, you can put it away now,” He said instead, and the locket was soon out of his hand, “Also, Breda, Fuery, mind getting me a sandwich or two? Honestly starting to feel hungry here.”

The two glanced at each other with raised eyebrows, almost confused at the sudden request. Though without further ado, they shrugged their shoulders and saluted, all the while claiming that they were to be back soon.

They then stepped out and shut the door closed behind them, their superiors left all alone.

It was Roy who broke the silence.

“You’ve had that locket for a long time now, Lieutenant.”

“Yes, sir.” Was the response.

“How many years?”

A short pause.

“Thirteen years, I believe.”

“It’s been thirteen years, huh?” His voice dropped to that of solemnity, eyes casted downwards onto his hands on his lap. He was sat on the mattress with his feet tucked beneath his thighs; his posture slightly hunched in reflection of the ambience that had blanketed over them. He was relaxed nonetheless, memories playing themselves within the darkness of his mind before he spoke again.

“I thought you’d have lost that, actually.”

“I may have lost a lot of things, but never that.”

The reply certainly took him by surprise, if the shock expressed through widened eyes and mouth agape were anything to go by. At this, Riza could not help the smile that had soon curved against her lips; a smile that was known to be saved for him and him alone.

Somewhat hesitantly, Roy inhaled a deep breath and asked, “Does it still have the same picture or have you changed it?”

Riza shook her head as much as she could, careful of her neck, “No, it’s still us.”

“The one we took at the carnival?”

“Yes.”

Tender warmth grew from his heart, grasping the entirety of his being into what felt like a gradual embrace in the cold. To think that she had kept it after all that time, after everything that had happened to them, around them, with them, Roy mentally took a step back into contemplation, but not without a smile on his face. He turned to her, eyes open despite being unseeing. By God, how he wished to have been able to actually take in the sight of her. He knew, however, that she was propped up in her cot, her watchful gaze placed on him like always. He also knew that her hair was down, and that a pink cardigan was wrapped around her shoulders in offer of comfort. And lastly, he knew that even with the dressing around her neck, around whichever other parts of her body that were wounded during the final battle, she was beautiful.

She had always been beautiful, and that was something he never did deny.

Even when she had that short hair of hers thirteen years ago, her facial structure still round and plumped due to her baby cheeks, he thought of her as something along the lines of cute and pretty. Of course there were times when he voiced those thoughts out loud, enjoying the hint of red that would have often bloomed across her face. She always did become shy once a compliment was heard, and he always did feel bold in doing so.

“Where has your mind wandered off to this time?” Her voice reached for him through the quiet, and he was more than glad to take hold of it.

“Just wishing that I could see you right now.”

It was Riza’s turn to be rendered speechless, her gentle smile widening in a way that mirrored the innocence of her childhood. She looked down, just as she did whenever she attempted to hide the expression from the very same man; more so during the rare moments between them, where the uniforms and ranks were shed, and they stood in a room as a pair of nobodies named Roy and Riza. It was also her way of maintaining the blush that threatened to tint her cheeks, to which had only led for her to release a sigh.

“God, you are such a sap, you know that?”

The deep sound of his laughter was what she received as an answer, followed by words she knew she would never tire of.

“For you? Always.”

#RoyAi #Roy Mustang #Riza Hawkeye #RoyAi fic #fma fic #Chie writes.#Me @ Adi: i'm on a rOLL.#pure fLUFF.#NO ANGST????#I swEAR I'M T R Y I N G.

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soclicheithurts · 7 years

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ART IS NOT MINE!

Disclaimer: I do not own Fullmetal Alchemist or anything associated with it. This is purely fan made for fun, not for profit.

That being said, I have taken time to edit this story (Originally Blue Eyes Black Tears) and its chapters so there will be more content and a more developed plot as I didn’t develop it in the previous timeline until about chapter five. This also means there may be less chapters but they will be longer.

I hope you enjoy!

Blue Eyes, Veiled Lies

Chapter One: A Day Like Any Other

It was another dreary day in central, and a certain blonde alchemist had just returned from a mission in the east. Edward had also visited his extended family, the Rockbells, while there so it made returning to the city even more unbearable. Winry hadn’t heard from Alphonse in the past two months since he had disappeared. In fact, Al’s disappearance was the only reason Edward had decided to stay in the military. The brothers had finally found a solution and the elder Elric had finally made good on his word. Al finally had his body back. All was well for two months, until he was suddenly gone, with no trace. It weighed on the alchemist’s mind that his brother had vanished without a trace and he, a state alchemist, could find not a single lead. He had been searching, wearing himself down to the bone, searching and searching, alas, to no avail.

He sighed heavily as he donned his trademark red coat and left his military dorm. It seemed all military staff received one so Ed figured for a while it might be a useful base of sorts. He was on the second floor, but he was near the end of the hall so the stairs that lead to the exit were practically outside his dorm. He closed and locked his door before he trudged down the stairs. Dread stirred like a lead weight in his stomach, making him feel ill, as he thought of what he had to report to the Colonel. He could only imagine the Colonel’s smug visage as he revealed that he had found nothing, not one clue about Al’s disappearance. Mustang’s snide comments alone were enough to make him turn around and forget about even turning in the report. It was sad he would rather deal with the angry Colonel than admit failure.

The blonde let out a frustrated puff and exited the dorm building sullenly traversing the sidewalks towards central HQ. The one positive thing, Edward mused, was that at least it wasn’t raining and the sun could not blind him.

It took little to no time to reach the main building and he trudged up the front stairs, looking at the building, filled once more with dread. He, if possible walked slower as he entered the office building and started grumbling to himself as he neared his destination. The blonde’s top lip twitched in disdain as he stared at the solid wooden door that lead to the Colonel’s office. He knew as soon as he knocked and was permitted access he would be looking at Mustang’s smug face. “That bastard.” He grumbled under his breath.

“Are you talking about me?” a deep, rumbling, sarcastic laden voice sounded from behind the blonde and he stood petrified, gold eyes wide in surprise.

Edward took a moment to recover himself before he spun around and hissed, “What are you doing?”

The Colonel quirked and eyebrow. “Just got done with a conference with the general. You?” he asked as he brushed past the shorter male pulling the solid wooden door open. He held it open gesturing with a flick of his head that Edward was to follow him.

Ed was frowning now, unwilling to give the man what it was that he wanted. Already Mustang was smirking at his expense, god he couldn’t stand this asshole. He lasted a moment longer as the raven-haired man took his seat behind the desk and begrudgingly spoke. “I brought my report from my last mission.”

“And?” the Colonel had his fingers steepled in front of his mouth so Ed couldn’t tell what expression he was making as his dark eyes were guarded.

Edward scowled at Mustang his amber eyes flashing as he bit back the rebellious comment that longed to pass his lips. “And what?” he said shortly.

Edward could hear the amusement in the Colonel’s voice now, “Surely I am not such a bastard that you can’t discuss your findings in a civil manner.”

Edward clenched his teeth at the jab and willed himself to calm. “I found nothing.” The words were forced out, warped further by bitterness. Ed pressed his lips together in a thin line as he waited for the Colonel’s response. His heart hammered as he waited for the ridicule to come. The silence seemed to drag on forever and just when he could stand no more the Colonel finally spoke.

“This is troubling.” He rumbled his eyes glazed over as he looked somewhere past Edward’s shoulder. The blonde tilted his head slightly confused by the sincerity in Mustang’s voice.

“Yeah, it is.” Edward agreed quietly they fell into a mutual silence and the blonde glanced around the room unsure of how to proceed. He had expected ridicule but he was taken aback by the strange, sincere behavior from Mustang. While he stood awaiting some sort of direction from the Colonel he took a glance around the room. In the corner of the room Havoc, Fuery and Breda sat around a table, file folders strewn across the flat surface as they talked quietly amongst themselves. It piqued Edward’s curiosity, but he wanted to be sure Mustang was done with their business. He looked back to the Colonel and cleared his throat to get the older male’s attention. “Was there anything else?” he asked softly.

Roy focused back on the blonde when he cleared his throat and nodded. “Yes, you are free to go. I’ll be sure to read this.” He stated as he placed the document on his not-to-large stack of papers occupying the right-hand corner of his desk.

Edward nodded and bowed before casually walking over to the three men. “What are you guys working on?” he felt a certain amount of pride when he noticed the young sergeant jump at his words. Fuery looked up quickly hiding his surprise with a kind smile and a nervous laugh.

“Hey Edward, what brings you here?” he asked quickly, nervously.

It wasn’t to out of character for Fuery to get nervous so Edward let the behavior slide and cordially answered Fuery’s question. “Just had to turn in my report from my last mission.” He stated looking over the documents trying to read snippets. Unfortunately, Havoc noticed and placed an open manila folder on top of the documents.

“Hey chief, this is private business, unless the Colonel has put you on this case, I can’t allow you to read.” his voice and expression were apologetic, and though Edward was miffed at being caught so soon he simply shrugged his shoulders.

Breda spoke next “So how did your mission go? Did you get any leads?” he asked sounding genuinely curious.

Edwards expression darkened and he gritted his teeth together a slight growl permeating his throat, “It was a crap shoot. Not a damn clue left behind. It’s like whoever I’m dealing with knew I was coming or something.” He muttered

“Maybe they never where there and you were sent on a wild goose chase.” Havoc presented the idea marveling at how quick Edward’s emotions changed regarding his brother.

His eyebrows shot to the top of his forehead and his eyes widened as his mouth hung open in shock. He definitely hadn’t even considered this and man did that piss him off. If the Colonel was sending him missions that had nothing to do with finding his brother, he would be beyond pissed. Edward regained his composure after a moment and closed his mouth his teeth knocking against each other uncomfortably. “I would like to believe the Colonel would be more sympathetic to my situation.” He said lowly.

Havoc smiled mischievously and shrugged, “Just food for thought, things are never as they seem Ed, you shouldn’t trust so easy.”

Edward puffed defensively “What are you implying?” he asked fiercely his gold eyes blazing.

Havoc held his hands up palms out in a calming gesture. “Easy there chief, I was just saying. It’s all about perspective, I just want you to consider every option.”

Edward was unsure how to respond. He felt fatigued as the anger left him as quickly as it had come. He became indifferent to everything and desired to be alone in his dorm. The blonde sighed and half turned “Ah, I guess I’ll be going now.” He said softly throwing a halfhearted wave over his shoulder his head spinning the entire way back to his dorms. So lost in thought was he that he nearly ran over another soldier. He felt the contact and looked up an apology spilling from his mouth before he was even aware of who he had even ran into. “S-sorry! I wasn’t paying attention.”

“Oh, it’s okay. Are you alright?” the man’s voice was smooth as silk and he appeared concerned. He was about a foot and a half taller than Edward, his black hair was slicked back against his head and curled gently at the base of his neck. His blue eyes held a genuine concern for the blonde his thin eyebrows curved up in worry. He wore the typical blue military uniform, only he didn’t have the coat on. Edward surmised that he must have been running a quick errand in his own time to be without his coat. He couldn’t peg what exactly, but something about this soldier had captured his attention. The kindness when he spoke perhaps, or maybe simply his attractive appearance.

“Uh,” started the blonde alchemist inelegantly, “Uh, what’s your name? I’m--!”

“Edward, right?” he finished the blonde’s thought with a soft smile, “You are kind of famous you know Mr. Elric. As for me I’m Emil Leighton.” He held out his hand cordially, “A pleasure to finally make your acquaintance sir.”

Despite himself Edward flushed at the compliment and shook the offered hand. “N-nice to meet you too.” As much as his name was helpful, it was a bit overwhelming when strangers knew who he was.

The blonde had barely returned his hand to his side when Emil started speaking about a mile-a-minute. “Wow~ It’s so nice to finally see you in the flesh, I never thought this would happen to me!” he said breathlessly, his eyes shone with barely subdued enthusiasm and he launched into more words not even giving Edward a chance to speak. “Say, what are you doing right now, I was killing some time before meeting with a friend of mine, but it isn’t for a while. Would you mind if I killed some time with you?” the blonde’s gold gaze locked with Emil’s blue and the soldier flushed as he rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly, “Oh jeez, I got a bit carried away, uh, even though you just met me would you mind spending a bit of time with me?”

Edward stood, slack jawed and speechless as he stood at this tornado of energy in front of him. While Emil seemed a bit over the top he didn’t seem horrible, and for some reason Edward couldn’t find a reason not to spend a bit of time with this guy. He cleared his throat and regained his composure flushing awkwardly his gaze shifting to the ground as he scratched thoughtfully at his cheek, “Uh…sure why not. I was just heading back to my dorm…. if that’s okay…?” he finished uncertainly.

Emil’s face split into a big smile but he reigned in his response to a simple, “yeah, sounds cool.” And a slight nod.

The blonde alchemist smiled weakly and sighed “Okay, then.” He started walking and ensured that Emil was following him. He unlocked the door and flipped on the light. The room looked unused save for the stray book here or there.

“Uh, are you sure you really live here?” The black-haired soldier asked sarcastically as he took in the basically pristine living space.

Ed rolled his eyes and took off his red coat hanging it on the back of one of the kitchen chairs. “I don’t really live anywhere, I’m usually out on missions for the Colonel.” He just hoped Emil didn’t turn out to be as much of a sarcastic bastard as Mustang or he might have to reconsider his thoughts on Emil.

The soldier in question chuckled and snorted, “Do you mean Colonel Mustang? He and I didn’t hit it off to well on our last mission. For being as sarcastic as he is my humor didn’t mesh well with him.”

The Alchemist quirked a blonde eyebrow and let a half smile contort his features. “You’ve worked with Mustang?” he asked slightly skeptical. The only thing he could think that made sense is if he was part of the investigation that Mustang’s crew was on that Edward was not a part of since he had asked to be sent on any mission that might have leads on his brother.

“Oh yeah, they actually just asked me to join up for a case they are working on now. Havoc is actually the friend I was going to meet, don’t suppose you know him too?” Emil asked tilting his head slightly to the side.

“Ah—Yeah actually, I usually work with Mustangs crew, but lately I’ve been sent out on missions looking for leads— “he hesitated and wondered briefly if he should tell this stranger about his brother. Logically though he was working with Mustang’s unit that meant he would probably find out sooner or later and maybe at some point he might end up working with him on a mission at some point in the future.

Emil eyed the smaller male curiously as he hesitated and Edward shook his head returning to the conversation, “Uh, sorry.” He started awkwardly before continuing his thought that had caused him to falter. “My brother has been missing for two months so I’ve been looking for any leads and I asked Mustang to send me on any missions that might have leads on his disappearance.” The blonde finished his gold eyes serious now.

“Ah, that makes sense, must be why I’ve never seen you until now, being always on the move is rough.”

There was a short but drawn out awkward pause as Emil fidgeted suddenly looking apprehensive, “I actually should get going Mr. Elric— “

“Ah, call me Edward please.” The blonde hated the sound of mister before his name, it made him think of his father, and well, he didn’t like that man. He caught the uncertain expression on the other’s face nodding reassuringly as Emil hesitantly continued.

“Edward, I have to go meet with Havoc about the new case.” He bowed slightly “Thank you for the time! It really made my day.” He finished brightly.

The blonde returned the bow suddenly feeling uneasy, unsure as to why, but smiled regardless. “Nice to meet you.” He responded simply as Emil saw himself out. Ed locked the door after he left and stood for a moment sighing heavily. He exhaled and leaned against the door running his left hand through his golden bangs. “What a strange man…” he thought to himself as he looked out his window at the evening sunlight that flooded his living space. Another sigh and he made his way to his room and retrieved a book he had been reading and curled up in the chair by the lamp.

---

Emil stood on the sidewalk and looked back up at the window of the room he had just come from. He smirked slightly and stared a moment longer before a soft chuckle came from his throat as he walked away.

---

4/15

He wants to see him. But he won’t say a thing. It’s so hard to watch him suffer like that. I won’t let him suffer much longer. I just got to keep up my work. Oh, he will be so surprised. When he sees all the work I’ve put into this for him…I can’t wait. The monster finally agreed to help me. This will drastically shorten the time we have to wait. Oh, my dear, soon you will be mine.

Okay~ So end of chapter one, here we go~ I hoped you enjoyed and please leave a review! They are a writers fuel! ~CGreyson~

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