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cornerofmadnessTitle -- When Sorrow Comes
Author--![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-userinfo.gif)
cornerofmadness
Disclaimer -- Arakawa owns all, I’m just having lots of fun.
Rating -- R for violence and sexual situations
Characters/Pairing -- Roy/Riza, Ed/Winry, Maes/Gracia, Alex Louis/OC, lots of Ishbalan OC’s
Timeline/Spoilers -- Technically it’s a few years post CoS with manga elements
Word Count -- 34,777
genre mystery/suspense
Warning -- violence and descriptions of murder.
Summary -- As Ed, Al and Alt!Maes settle into life in Amestris, they have to help Roy in his role as ambassador whose main duties are to speed along the Ishbalan homeland restoration. In the middle of this, a series killer seems desperate to get Mustang’s attention while Riza is no longer always at his side, guarding, instead, the new Fuhrer.
Chapter Seven
Winry yawned before going into her clinic’s patient room. Ed had kept her up all night and not in a good way. He was still fussing and grumbling about the interrogation. She was just about ready to throttle him, but didn’t think he’d take it well if she went back to her own place – her guest room in Roy’s house – just so she could get some rest. She looked at the chart. This would be a new patient, referred by the military hospital. The one thing about that hospital, it was always a good source of new work.
A man in his forties smiled at her before his gaze dropped to her work boots. Smiling, Winry figured he had to be shy. He was dressed in a hospital uniform, and, to her surprise, he already had an automail hand. From the looks of it, it was an old construct. She could definitely improve on that. “Hello, I’m Winry Rockbell.”
“John Pandur.” He held out that old hand for her to shake.
Winry did so, sitting down so she could examine it. “Are you having troubles with your hand?”
“Yes. I’m having issues with the fingers moving correctly. I’ve had this since the war. I guess you know hands are expensive. I never had it updated because it was working fine.” John shrugged. “Now, it’s having problems and Hala Jasso suggested I contact you since I wouldn’t even begin to know where my mechanic is,” he said, still looking at her feet, his brow pinched as if he was concerned or perhaps disappointed.
“Have you been maintaining it? That’s a very long time to go without maintenance,” she scolded gently. Winry checked over his hand and immediately reevaluated her statement. She wouldn’t have guessed it had been so long except for where it leaked around the thumb and forefinger. “I’m not used to it lasting so long. You must have been taking good care of your automail,” Winry added brightly, wondering if she could have this man talk to Ed, Roy and Dev, all of whom broke theirs with regularity.
CoMBB-03.jpg)
Art byyuukihikari
He smiled again. “I’m a medic. I’m used to taking care of things. I’m able to do the maintenance and it’s not very extensive.” John gestured with his hand, drawing attention to the fact that his prosthesis ended just a few millimeters above his wrist.
“Let’s have a look.” Winry pulled on her mechanic’s loupe, fixing it over one eye and selected the proper tool to open up the mechanisms. “Hmmm, the pistons are very worn and leaking. Third time I’ve seen this today. The cold isn’t doing anyone any favors especially these older models. I can fix these, or we could do a complete redesign and give you something new.”
“Can we fix the worn out parts now, and let me see how the finances look for a new hand? I’m more or less happy with the hand as it is, but I’ve seen your work,” John said.
“You have?” Winry’s brow beetled. “Oh, yes, you know Hala, so you’ve probably met Dev.”
“Recently, yes. Dev also said to see you.”
“Dev’s hand is a very new design. And certainly we replace the pistons and talk over designs so you have an idea of how much it’ll cost for a replacement,” Winry said affably.
“Sounds like a plan.” John smiled, but she noticed he couldn’t meet her eyes. The poor guy was probably shy with the way he kept looking at her feet instead of her.
XXX
“You look stressed.” Gracia laced her arms around Maes’s neck.
He put a hand over hers, giving them a squeeze. “I am. Sorry, didn’t mean to bring it home.”
“Have you managed to clear Edward?” Gracia leaned down to kiss his cheek before coming around the arm of the couch to sit with him.
“Not yet. I have him working on other things. We can more or less rule out Dev. He’s not in good enough physical condition.” Maes frowned. “I don’t like talking about this sort of thing here.” He glanced at the ceiling.
“She’s in the kitchen doing her homework,” Gracia replied.
“Good.” He nodded, trying to figure out what it was he wanted to say.
“Something else is bothering you.”
That she could read him so well was one of those things bothering him. Was he really so much like the man’s whose name he now called his own? Or was he that transparent, all on his own? Putting an arm around her waist, Maes said, “I’m worried about you.”
“There’s nothing to worry about,” she replied airily.
His lips thinned. He knew she was probably right, but he couldn’t dodge the feeling of dread.
Gracia frowned, taking his hand. “There really isn’t. I know after what happened in your world, that’s hard for you to believe.” She twined her fingers with his. “I’m fine, Maes. I really am, and when I’m not, trust me, you’ll know it. My moods will be swinging and I’ll be screaming or crying or both.”
Maes snorted. “I think I can handle that. I’m expecting that. It’s the normal I’m not so ready for. You’re so happy. She had been that happy and I’m not trying to live in the past and think about her.”
“But you can’t help it. I know.” Gracia turned to look into his eyes. “Those same thoughts go through my mind, too.”
“I don’t want you to think I’m thinking this is a mistake,” he added hurriedly. “It’s odd, no doubt, but I do love you.”
“I know you love me, honey, and I hope you know I love you, too.” She stroked his cheek. “You’re a good man, you’re my good man.”
But he really wasn’t or at least not her original good man. Sometimes he did think this might have been a mistake, but those times were few and far between. This self doubt was born of fear of losing it all again. Meinhard couldn’t imagine not having her and Elicia in his life. It was worth giving up his real name. He was Maes now.
He pulled her close, kissing her as he calculated the time between now and when Elicia would be in bed. Before his hand could reach the first button of her sweater, the phone rang, making them both jump. Mentally cursing enough to make even Ed blush, Maes got up and snatched the phone off the cradle. “Hello? Oh…just perfect. I’ll be right there.”
Worried, she folded her arms around herself. “Another woman didn’t get killed did she?” Gracia asked.
Maes shook his head. “This has to do with the bomb mishap. We seem to have to a lead on a few more of the Ishbalans in the cabal. I’m going to call Ed and have him meet us, then give Roy a call. With my luck, I’ll catch him in the middle of doing something indecent with Riza.”
Gracia glanced back at the kitchen as if to see if her daughter was still there. “And here I was hoping you’d do something indecent with me.”
“I’ll try to save some energy for that when I get back.” He grinned, even though they both knew in all likelihood he’d get back so late at night, sleep would be the only thing he was capable of. At least they had caught a break on one case. It made the interruption sting a little less.
XXX
“I’m surprised I’m allowed to help with this,” Ed grumbled as he met Hughes, Armstrong and Ross outside headquarters. The pained look on the two men’s faces made him regret his hasty words. Maria looked like she wanted to slap him across the face like she had when he was a kid.
“You are cleared for duty, Major,” Hughes replied stiffly, letting Ed know the barb had dug in. “You’re just not cleared to examine the case of the murdered women.”
“Yeah, okay, so what is the plan?” Ed tried to downplay being an ass. He rubbed his shoulder, which screamed from the cold. “And can we discuss it inside?”
“In the car,” Maria replied. “Brosch has brought it around.”
Ed nodded. “Okay.”
He let them chivvy him toward the military transport, thankful it was a van. He hadn’t been thrilled at the idea of squeezing into a back seat next to Armstrong. Memories of his frightening defeat at Scar’s hands bubbled up, along with the feeling of being crushed by the gentle behemoth up against the train window as Armstrong escorted him and Al home.
As Denny navigated the slick roads, Hughes laid out the plan. “Do you know Priests Shelar and Mattan, Edward?”
“Mattan is Uzziel’s grandson, right? I know who he is, but I don’t know him other than he’s not a Mustang fan.” Ed shrugged his shoulders as if to say ‘who is?’ “I’ve never heard of the other man.”
“I don’t know much about either man myself. They’re going to meet us at the Thuja housing project. Apparently, one of the group wants to give up. He’s only fifteen and in over his head,” Hughes said.
Ed wrinkled his nose. “Why does a kid want to blow people up?”
“You were younger than he is when you joined the military,” Maria reminded him. “Even if war wasn’t what you had in mind when you signed up.”
“You have to remember, Edward, the boy would have been a mere babe during the war, if he was born at all during the worst of it. He was very likely to have grown up fed on hatred for Amestris, wrapped up in the ideals of righteous vengeance,” Armstrong added.
Ed grimaced. “I heard stuff like that from Scar.” He’d seen it on Earth, too. On one level he understood it, but he didn’t have to like it.
“Mattan and Shelar will theoretically be there to help keep the kid calm, and I’m sure they think they may need to protect him as well,” Hughes said. “I’m not that interested in punishing a kid, but that might be out of our hands.”
“What if he helps us?” Ed asked.
“I’m hoping that’s enough to get him some consideration. As far as I know, he’s not actually done anything yet, and, hopefully, knows what the cell is planning. It’s what do we do with him afterward that concerns me,” Hughes replied and Ed believed that Hughes was telling the truth judging by the furrow in the man’s brow. “He might not be safe among his own people here, and it’s not likely he’s going to want to help us much or switch sides.”
“That’s probably why those priests want to be there. To protect him from his own people, maybe find some way to rehabilitate him,” Ed tried to be hopeful.
“Probably.”
“We’re there,” Denny called from the driver’s seat.
Ed saw the priests standing outside in colorful, thick wool coats, looking frozen and unhappy. He knew he’d be equally unhappy once this got underway.
XXX
“This is going to become permanent if you keep scowling like that.” Riza tapped the tight knot between Roy’s brow.
His frown deepened. “I should get to the Ishbalan centre, but Uzziel and Kennan want me to stay out of it.”
“Then that’s exactly what you should do.” Riza replied, tapping his brow again.
“Have you forgotten your husband is responsible for everything all the time?” Li-Ying said, barely looking up from her book. She shifted on the living room couch, sinking lower on it. “Even when it has nothing to do with him. He’s always been a control freak.”
“I know.” Riza sighed.
“I’m not!” Roy glared at his sister, but it was lost on her. “Maes called me about having a lead on the bomber. The priests want me out of it because I’m apparently part of the problem. You know damn well there are a lot of hard feelings about me being the ambassador.” He started fidgeting with his glass eye and the scar on his cheek, something to keep his fingers busy. “There are those that would rather live rough in the slums if the alternative is accepting my help.”
“And it’s been like that for the last few years,” Riza reminded him. “Tonight is no different.”
“Maes and Edward are walking into an Ishbalan slum alone. I should have been able to have gone,” Roy grumbled.
“Edward is no longer a child, Roy.” Riza sat next to him taking his hand. “He is nearly your match in a fight. Well, we haven’t even seen him fight since he’s come back. He could be better than you. Hughes can take care of himself.” Roy winced at that and she squeezed his hand. “You know he is. Armstrong is also with them, and Maria Ross and Denny Brosch. They will be fine.”
He pouted. “That doesn’t make it any easier.”
“You’re worried about Edward.” Riza smiled. “That’s sweet.”
“Don’t you even think about suggesting that to him.” Roy wagged a finger at her. “Besides, it’s Hughes I’m worried about.”
“Right,” Li-Ying drawled.
“It just seems there is never just one problem, one reason for sorrow but many at once. I can’t help but worry when I think about it like that.” Roy sighed.
“Isn’t that an old saying? Brother, if you’re just going to sit around being a grumpus, why don’t you just go upstairs and do it where we don’t have to see you?” Li-Ying asked, turning a page in her book.
“Why are you even still in Central?” Roy snorted. She didn’t deign to give him an answer, so he turned his attention back to Riza. “And it’s not helping that this murderer is running around writing me love notes. I’ve been racking my brain, and I have no idea how I could possibly be connected.”
“Have you tried looking at photos?” Riza yawned. “Those are often good at triggering memories.”
“No, I should, though. It’s a good idea. I’ll dig out some old albums. I get this feeling that if I could possibly know the killer, it’s not recently. Don’t ask me why?”
“You have good intuition for a brat,” Li-Ying replied.
“I’m ignoring you.” Roy did a poor job of it, flashing his sister an obscene gesture. “How are you feeling, Riza? You looked tired at dinner.”
“Exhausted. Don’t know why. I was exhausted yesterday, too,” she admitted.
Li-Ying peered at her with more concern than she would ever show Roy. “Of course you are. Living with my brother is enough to exhaust anyone.”
He sniffed in response. “Let’s go upstairs, Riza. Get into bed early and pretend my sister isn’t here.”
“I’ll go put on some music to drown you out, brother.”
Riza wagged her head. “You two are awful, but turning in early sounds good. Come with me, Roy. You can always come back down here and fret in the middle of the night like normal.”
Roy sighed, knowing he would. He took her hand anyhow, heading for the stairs. He could at least find momentary solace in his wife’s arms.
Chapter Eight
“Is the Fuhrer coming here today?” Kennan asked Roy, interrupting the conversation he’d been having with Aris.
Roy nodded. “You said you wanted to talk to her about alchemists, and she wanted to talk to you about the cabal that was just uncovered. It should be fairly informal.” He glanced over Kennan’s shoulder to the visiting priests who had become the man’s shadow. Roy figured they had to be the reason the whole idea of State Alchemists had to be revisited. “At least, I hope so.”
“That is my hope as well. We are not looking for an accounting of the State Alchemists for war trials. In watching the efforts you and the Fuhrer’s brother have put forth, it was proposed there might be a more tangible form of reparations some of the others might be willing to put forth,” Kennan replied.
“I have no idea, but the Fuhrer did ask I not give out that list, or at least as far as I know it, until she arrives.” Roy shrugged. “I’m also not really in the loop about what happened at the Thuja housing project but that was by your request.” A hint of recrimination hung in his words.
“Some of what we heard was the bombs were being built in response to your assistance here at the centre,” Aris said. “Ironic that you were the one to save those people from the bombers.” His dry tone made Roy smile briefly.
“Speaking of which, I need to put a call in to that construction company. Those new apartments should be ready for move-in. I’m sure the people camped out here in the centre will be glad to hear that,” Roy said. It was hard to believe it had been over a week already. At least there had been no more murders with notes to him in the last few days.
“Kennan,” Dev said, coming up behind the priest, leading the Fuhrer, Miles and Riza along with him. “They’re here.”
“Thanks. Where would you like to do this?” Kennan aimed that at Roy.
“These offices are small. No one should be in that conference room on the third floor,” Roy replied, rolling his eyes toward the ceiling.
“That should do fine,” Olivia said.
“Follow me,” Dev said, heading for the stair case. He limped more heavily than he had in the past few days. Roy would have to tell his niece and sister. The weather had kept the young man from visiting and getting a treatment. It was obviously telling on him.
The architect hadn’t known that the Ishbalan Centre was going to be doing double duty as a place of business while an embassy was built. He hadn’t designed a room for holding meetings so a supply room had been taken over for that purpose. However, one round table and chairs all but filled the area. Once they were all seated around the table in the cramped conference room – except for Riza and Miles who stood on guard – Olivia nodded to Miles. He handed Roy a folder.
“That is the official list of State Alchemists. Needless to say, if something starts suddenly happening to them, you will be the first place I look,” Olivia told the priests.
“That isn’t why we want the list,” Kennan assured her. “Mustang and your brother have proven they are worth more alive.” His lips thinned, almost disappearing into his beard. “Though, I suppose the bombing cabal proves not everyone agrees.”
Olivia waved him off. “You’ll never find a place where everyone agrees with their leaders.”
“That is true and we are appreciative that you were willing to entrust young Isaar to our guardianship in exchange for his help naming others in the cabal,” Kennan said.
“He’s also your worry if sympathizers come looking for him,” Olivia replied, leaning back in her chair. “So what did you have in mind with this list?”
“Reparations. We are aware of how well paid State Alchemists are. Surely they could set aside a certain monetary amount over the next few years to help fund the rebuilding of Ishbal or donate time and money. We haven’t come to complete agreement about this yet, but we thought we would at least see the sorts of numbers we’d be dealing with and if you are ready to back such an initiative.” Kennan’s eyes swept over Olivia. “Though, I thought you’d just send the list with Mustang as Ambassador.”
“I had considered it, but I also thought it wasn’t a bad idea, to hear this in person and to be as approachable as I can be in the rebuilding process,” Olivia replied and Roy knew that cost her. Olivia was never a very approachable woman and that was probably one of the hardest parts of her being Fuhrer. Both he and Miles had pushed for her coming here.
“We appreciate it,” Aris said.
“May I see the list of names?” Kennan asked Roy.
“Let’s go over them together. If this was the original roll call from the war, there are a lot of names that can probably be stricken from the list,” Roy said. “Got a pen?”
Dev pulled one out of his pocket. “You never have them.”
“That’s what you’re for. Let’s see here, Avalanche is dead, Blade Jewel is in a mental institution, Brimstone committed suicide. Crimson was killed by Scar for that matter so was Electric, Silver and Iron Blood.” Roy crossed off the names.
“Scar?” Peleg asked, finally breaking his silence. Roy had begun wondering if there were vows of silence in the Ishbalan religion and what his chances of Dev taking one.
“The Scarred Ishbalan. Never did know his name but he killed several of us,” Roy replied. “Crystal and Ice are dead. Wind, Knife, and Thunderbolt are all in the asylum. Anvil, Granite, and Copper were suicides.”
“I’m beginning to wonder how you didn’t end up in an asylum, then I remember that you’ve had a few close calls.” Dev said. “Maybe it would be easier to just circle the ones who didn’t kill themselves or go insane.”
Roy grimaced. “Thanks for reminding me, but you might have a point. I know that we’re seen as heartless monsters. Truth is, not many of us wanted to be in that war. We became State Alchemists for the funds to do our research. Only a few like Crimson and Iron Blood were sadistic enough to enjoy it. The war already took its toll from us. Kennan, you’ve remarked before it was probably a crueler thing to let me live with what I’ve done than demand my execution. You didn’t know how right you are. I’ve visited a few of them in Central’s asylum. Death would be a mercy.”
“And how exactly do you think we should feel about that?” Baruk asked, playing with his brown beard that stretched nearly to his chest.
Roy shrugged. “It’s a fact. You can do whatever you’d like with it. I’m just giving perspective. Ah, here you go, Vine. She would be grateful for a chance to help out. I even know where to find her.”
“That’s a start,” Kennan said.
“Yeah, we might want to request some additional refreshments. This might take awhile.” Roy sighed.
XXX
Al frowned at the bathroom door. How long did it take Winry to shower? His hair was a mess and he had to pee. He had the day off from school, so at least he didn’t have to worry about that. He stumbled down the stairs and contemplated, very briefly, going out in the snow to pee against a tree. Mrs. Hamilton would see him with his luck, and while Ed would probably laugh it off, if Winry found out, she might tie his dick in a knot.
The smell of bacon and coffee captured him, drawing him into the kitchen where Ed was being shockingly domestic. The bacon looked edible. The coffee would be chancier. Ed had a tendency to boil it into a thick syrup more usable as paint stripper than a wake-me-up. Al sat down at the table with a thump. “I have to pee. When did Winry get in there?”
CoMBB-04b.jpg)
Art byyuukihikari
Ed flushed. “You weren’t supposed to be up yet.”
“I know she stayed the night, Ed. Don’t be a prude.” Al waved him off. “We’re going to have to make a schedule if she’s going to be sleeping over more.”
“Sorry. I can go hurry her up if you need me to, or you can just pee down the drain.” Ed shrugged.
“I am not peeing in the sink.” Al considered that for a moment. “And you’d better not be, either. I think we need to reconsider our living arrangements, Brother.”
Ed slapped the wooden spoon down, whirling around. “What do you mean?”
“I mean, this cottage is small and I’m distracted and crabby because I have so much make-up work to do for school.” Al sighed, levering himself back up. He needed to chance the coffee. “I’m suggesting Winry and I trade places. She stays with Roy when she’s here. I could stay with him and Miao-Yin is there. That will be convenient since she helps me study. I’ll be out of your way, and you won’t have to worry about what I’ll overhear, and,” he sighed, longingly, “there are at least three bathrooms at Roy’s.”
Ed came over to him. “Al, I don’t want you to move out.”
“You knew I had to some day, Ed.” Al poured the coffee. “It’s okay. I don’t mind. Roy has a lot of interesting ideas. You know he’s working with me on the healing alchemy and that house is so big, I won’t be in anyone’s way.”
“I don’t want you to feel like I’m driving you off, Al.” Ed swallowed, touching Al’s shoulder.
Al couldn’t quite look at his brother. He didn’t know how to process Edward looking so remorseful on account of something Al had done. “You’re not. I almost said ‘no’ to taking this cottage in the first place. I should have been out on my own and married by now.” He grimaced. Why the hell had he brought that up?
“Al…” Ed reached for him, but Al moved out of range as he went for the sugar.
“It’s about time you and Winry had time for yourselves, Ed.” He spooned some sweetener into the coffee and stirred it.
“I’m not sure I’m ready to move in with her, Al,” Ed replied quietly.
Al turned back to him, seeing Ed looked almost afraid. “Well, I don’t have to move out right away, but it should be something for you and Winry to think about.”
Ed nodded, sighing, and went back to the stove and his cooking. “You’re right. I know it. I guess I’m not…I don’t even know what.”
“Ready to be an adult? Hell, you and I have been adults since we were ten. Clinging to the last vestiges of childhood is probably understandable.”
“Is that what I’m doing?” Ed shrugged. “Maybe. And you’re right. Some days, I wish we could have been kids more, but there’s nothing we can do about that. I’ll talk to Winry. You’re right. If nothing else, we need a schedule for showers so we can all get ready on time.”
“Good.” Al sipped the coffee, then grimaced. “Next we’ll work on getting you lessons on how to make coffee.”
“Bite me.”
Al snorted. That sounded more like his brother. Hearing Winry on the stairs, Al set the death in a cup aside and raced up the steps past her. Even if it was his idea, he’d be rather sad and a little afraid to leave his brother, too. They had been together just a little too long.
XXX
Back during the war, alchemists were given every advantage over their opponents, the Ishbalans. John had taken advantage of that to have his alchemic symbol stamped into a medallion he could wear all the time. Now, with the circle of metal clutched in his hand, he flicked his finger at the whimpering girl.
The skin of her arm split open and she screamed. No one inside the building would hear her over the pounding beat of the dance hall music. “You have beautiful taste in shoes, my dear,” he said.
“Please, please, mister,” she begged, clutching at her arm. Blood ran between her fingers to splatter on the dirty snow. “Don’t kill me. I don’t want to die.”
“That’s too bad.” John flicked his finger again, and the skin of her neck opened. She died, gurgling her own blood. He hated that part but it was necessary. John squatted down and took her beautiful bejeweled heels, tucking them into his jacket pockets. He grinned, seeing the crystal anklet around her slender ankle. John pocketed that before he dipped his automail finger into her blood.
He started scrawling his note to Mustang on the wall, thinking once he got home, he’d have to give his hand a thorough cleaning. He was going to meet with Miss Rockbell tomorrow for his new hand. What a pity she wore ugly work boots. He wouldn’t mind having something her feet had been in. Mustang, is there anything better than a delicate foot dressed in glittering crystals?.
John scowled. That had taken longer to write than he anticipated, and it was messy, but it got the message across. He stomped his feet. Damn, it was cold. It was time to get going before some drunk came out of the dance hall to piss in the alley or something. He couldn’t wait to get home and spend time with his newest conquest.
XXX
“Mmmm,” Roy moaned as Riza shifted her weight off of him. “Too soon.”
“You’ll lose feeling in your arms.” She reached over and undid one of the silk scarves pinning his arms to the headboard.
He wiggled. “I’m just glad you’re feeling better.”
“So am I. It’s no fun being tired for no reason.” As she reached over to undo his other arm, Roy nuzzled her breast. “And I see someone is not tired.”
“Not at all.” He grinned broadly.
Riza trailed her hand, still holding the swatch of silk, down his body to tease his sensitive flesh. He was just beginning to respond to her wonderful touch when the bedroom phone rang.
“Dammit!” Roy rolled out from under his wife. “At this hour, you know it can’t be good.”
“You have to answer it.”
Roy snatched the phone out of the cradle, almost clipping himself in the chin with the mouthpiece as he jammed it to his head. “What?”
“There’s been another one,” Hughes answered tersely.
“Fuck it. Where?”
“Know where the Henshaw Dance Hall is?”
Roy swore again. “I’ll be there as soon as I can.” He dropped the receiver back into its cradle with a crash.
“Another girl?”
“Yeah.” Roy got out of bed and Riza followed.
At his look, Riza said, “I’ll go with you.”
“You don’t have to.”
“I rarely get to look out for you any more, love.” Riza embraced him. “The least I can do is not leave you out in the cold with this horror by yourself.”
Roy kissed her. “That’s one of the reasons I love you.” He went to the bureau. “Need to find my heavy socks. It’s going to be frigid, and we’ll probably be there all night.”
“Middle drawer, left side,” Riza replied. “I’ll go make a quick pot of coffee and put it in a thermos.”
“Another reason to love you forever.”
To chapter nine
Author--
cornerofmadnessDisclaimer -- Arakawa owns all, I’m just having lots of fun.
Rating -- R for violence and sexual situations
Characters/Pairing -- Roy/Riza, Ed/Winry, Maes/Gracia, Alex Louis/OC, lots of Ishbalan OC’s
Timeline/Spoilers -- Technically it’s a few years post CoS with manga elements
Word Count -- 34,777
genre mystery/suspense
Warning -- violence and descriptions of murder.
Summary -- As Ed, Al and Alt!Maes settle into life in Amestris, they have to help Roy in his role as ambassador whose main duties are to speed along the Ishbalan homeland restoration. In the middle of this, a series killer seems desperate to get Mustang’s attention while Riza is no longer always at his side, guarding, instead, the new Fuhrer.
Chapter Seven
Winry yawned before going into her clinic’s patient room. Ed had kept her up all night and not in a good way. He was still fussing and grumbling about the interrogation. She was just about ready to throttle him, but didn’t think he’d take it well if she went back to her own place – her guest room in Roy’s house – just so she could get some rest. She looked at the chart. This would be a new patient, referred by the military hospital. The one thing about that hospital, it was always a good source of new work.
A man in his forties smiled at her before his gaze dropped to her work boots. Smiling, Winry figured he had to be shy. He was dressed in a hospital uniform, and, to her surprise, he already had an automail hand. From the looks of it, it was an old construct. She could definitely improve on that. “Hello, I’m Winry Rockbell.”
“John Pandur.” He held out that old hand for her to shake.
Winry did so, sitting down so she could examine it. “Are you having troubles with your hand?”
“Yes. I’m having issues with the fingers moving correctly. I’ve had this since the war. I guess you know hands are expensive. I never had it updated because it was working fine.” John shrugged. “Now, it’s having problems and Hala Jasso suggested I contact you since I wouldn’t even begin to know where my mechanic is,” he said, still looking at her feet, his brow pinched as if he was concerned or perhaps disappointed.
“Have you been maintaining it? That’s a very long time to go without maintenance,” she scolded gently. Winry checked over his hand and immediately reevaluated her statement. She wouldn’t have guessed it had been so long except for where it leaked around the thumb and forefinger. “I’m not used to it lasting so long. You must have been taking good care of your automail,” Winry added brightly, wondering if she could have this man talk to Ed, Roy and Dev, all of whom broke theirs with regularity.
Art by
yuukihikariHe smiled again. “I’m a medic. I’m used to taking care of things. I’m able to do the maintenance and it’s not very extensive.” John gestured with his hand, drawing attention to the fact that his prosthesis ended just a few millimeters above his wrist.
“Let’s have a look.” Winry pulled on her mechanic’s loupe, fixing it over one eye and selected the proper tool to open up the mechanisms. “Hmmm, the pistons are very worn and leaking. Third time I’ve seen this today. The cold isn’t doing anyone any favors especially these older models. I can fix these, or we could do a complete redesign and give you something new.”
“Can we fix the worn out parts now, and let me see how the finances look for a new hand? I’m more or less happy with the hand as it is, but I’ve seen your work,” John said.
“You have?” Winry’s brow beetled. “Oh, yes, you know Hala, so you’ve probably met Dev.”
“Recently, yes. Dev also said to see you.”
“Dev’s hand is a very new design. And certainly we replace the pistons and talk over designs so you have an idea of how much it’ll cost for a replacement,” Winry said affably.
“Sounds like a plan.” John smiled, but she noticed he couldn’t meet her eyes. The poor guy was probably shy with the way he kept looking at her feet instead of her.
XXX
“You look stressed.” Gracia laced her arms around Maes’s neck.
He put a hand over hers, giving them a squeeze. “I am. Sorry, didn’t mean to bring it home.”
“Have you managed to clear Edward?” Gracia leaned down to kiss his cheek before coming around the arm of the couch to sit with him.
“Not yet. I have him working on other things. We can more or less rule out Dev. He’s not in good enough physical condition.” Maes frowned. “I don’t like talking about this sort of thing here.” He glanced at the ceiling.
“She’s in the kitchen doing her homework,” Gracia replied.
“Good.” He nodded, trying to figure out what it was he wanted to say.
“Something else is bothering you.”
That she could read him so well was one of those things bothering him. Was he really so much like the man’s whose name he now called his own? Or was he that transparent, all on his own? Putting an arm around her waist, Maes said, “I’m worried about you.”
“There’s nothing to worry about,” she replied airily.
His lips thinned. He knew she was probably right, but he couldn’t dodge the feeling of dread.
Gracia frowned, taking his hand. “There really isn’t. I know after what happened in your world, that’s hard for you to believe.” She twined her fingers with his. “I’m fine, Maes. I really am, and when I’m not, trust me, you’ll know it. My moods will be swinging and I’ll be screaming or crying or both.”
Maes snorted. “I think I can handle that. I’m expecting that. It’s the normal I’m not so ready for. You’re so happy. She had been that happy and I’m not trying to live in the past and think about her.”
“But you can’t help it. I know.” Gracia turned to look into his eyes. “Those same thoughts go through my mind, too.”
“I don’t want you to think I’m thinking this is a mistake,” he added hurriedly. “It’s odd, no doubt, but I do love you.”
“I know you love me, honey, and I hope you know I love you, too.” She stroked his cheek. “You’re a good man, you’re my good man.”
But he really wasn’t or at least not her original good man. Sometimes he did think this might have been a mistake, but those times were few and far between. This self doubt was born of fear of losing it all again. Meinhard couldn’t imagine not having her and Elicia in his life. It was worth giving up his real name. He was Maes now.
He pulled her close, kissing her as he calculated the time between now and when Elicia would be in bed. Before his hand could reach the first button of her sweater, the phone rang, making them both jump. Mentally cursing enough to make even Ed blush, Maes got up and snatched the phone off the cradle. “Hello? Oh…just perfect. I’ll be right there.”
Worried, she folded her arms around herself. “Another woman didn’t get killed did she?” Gracia asked.
Maes shook his head. “This has to do with the bomb mishap. We seem to have to a lead on a few more of the Ishbalans in the cabal. I’m going to call Ed and have him meet us, then give Roy a call. With my luck, I’ll catch him in the middle of doing something indecent with Riza.”
Gracia glanced back at the kitchen as if to see if her daughter was still there. “And here I was hoping you’d do something indecent with me.”
“I’ll try to save some energy for that when I get back.” He grinned, even though they both knew in all likelihood he’d get back so late at night, sleep would be the only thing he was capable of. At least they had caught a break on one case. It made the interruption sting a little less.
XXX
“I’m surprised I’m allowed to help with this,” Ed grumbled as he met Hughes, Armstrong and Ross outside headquarters. The pained look on the two men’s faces made him regret his hasty words. Maria looked like she wanted to slap him across the face like she had when he was a kid.
“You are cleared for duty, Major,” Hughes replied stiffly, letting Ed know the barb had dug in. “You’re just not cleared to examine the case of the murdered women.”
“Yeah, okay, so what is the plan?” Ed tried to downplay being an ass. He rubbed his shoulder, which screamed from the cold. “And can we discuss it inside?”
“In the car,” Maria replied. “Brosch has brought it around.”
Ed nodded. “Okay.”
He let them chivvy him toward the military transport, thankful it was a van. He hadn’t been thrilled at the idea of squeezing into a back seat next to Armstrong. Memories of his frightening defeat at Scar’s hands bubbled up, along with the feeling of being crushed by the gentle behemoth up against the train window as Armstrong escorted him and Al home.
As Denny navigated the slick roads, Hughes laid out the plan. “Do you know Priests Shelar and Mattan, Edward?”
“Mattan is Uzziel’s grandson, right? I know who he is, but I don’t know him other than he’s not a Mustang fan.” Ed shrugged his shoulders as if to say ‘who is?’ “I’ve never heard of the other man.”
“I don’t know much about either man myself. They’re going to meet us at the Thuja housing project. Apparently, one of the group wants to give up. He’s only fifteen and in over his head,” Hughes said.
Ed wrinkled his nose. “Why does a kid want to blow people up?”
“You were younger than he is when you joined the military,” Maria reminded him. “Even if war wasn’t what you had in mind when you signed up.”
“You have to remember, Edward, the boy would have been a mere babe during the war, if he was born at all during the worst of it. He was very likely to have grown up fed on hatred for Amestris, wrapped up in the ideals of righteous vengeance,” Armstrong added.
Ed grimaced. “I heard stuff like that from Scar.” He’d seen it on Earth, too. On one level he understood it, but he didn’t have to like it.
“Mattan and Shelar will theoretically be there to help keep the kid calm, and I’m sure they think they may need to protect him as well,” Hughes said. “I’m not that interested in punishing a kid, but that might be out of our hands.”
“What if he helps us?” Ed asked.
“I’m hoping that’s enough to get him some consideration. As far as I know, he’s not actually done anything yet, and, hopefully, knows what the cell is planning. It’s what do we do with him afterward that concerns me,” Hughes replied and Ed believed that Hughes was telling the truth judging by the furrow in the man’s brow. “He might not be safe among his own people here, and it’s not likely he’s going to want to help us much or switch sides.”
“That’s probably why those priests want to be there. To protect him from his own people, maybe find some way to rehabilitate him,” Ed tried to be hopeful.
“Probably.”
“We’re there,” Denny called from the driver’s seat.
Ed saw the priests standing outside in colorful, thick wool coats, looking frozen and unhappy. He knew he’d be equally unhappy once this got underway.
XXX
“This is going to become permanent if you keep scowling like that.” Riza tapped the tight knot between Roy’s brow.
His frown deepened. “I should get to the Ishbalan centre, but Uzziel and Kennan want me to stay out of it.”
“Then that’s exactly what you should do.” Riza replied, tapping his brow again.
“Have you forgotten your husband is responsible for everything all the time?” Li-Ying said, barely looking up from her book. She shifted on the living room couch, sinking lower on it. “Even when it has nothing to do with him. He’s always been a control freak.”
“I know.” Riza sighed.
“I’m not!” Roy glared at his sister, but it was lost on her. “Maes called me about having a lead on the bomber. The priests want me out of it because I’m apparently part of the problem. You know damn well there are a lot of hard feelings about me being the ambassador.” He started fidgeting with his glass eye and the scar on his cheek, something to keep his fingers busy. “There are those that would rather live rough in the slums if the alternative is accepting my help.”
“And it’s been like that for the last few years,” Riza reminded him. “Tonight is no different.”
“Maes and Edward are walking into an Ishbalan slum alone. I should have been able to have gone,” Roy grumbled.
“Edward is no longer a child, Roy.” Riza sat next to him taking his hand. “He is nearly your match in a fight. Well, we haven’t even seen him fight since he’s come back. He could be better than you. Hughes can take care of himself.” Roy winced at that and she squeezed his hand. “You know he is. Armstrong is also with them, and Maria Ross and Denny Brosch. They will be fine.”
He pouted. “That doesn’t make it any easier.”
“You’re worried about Edward.” Riza smiled. “That’s sweet.”
“Don’t you even think about suggesting that to him.” Roy wagged a finger at her. “Besides, it’s Hughes I’m worried about.”
“Right,” Li-Ying drawled.
“It just seems there is never just one problem, one reason for sorrow but many at once. I can’t help but worry when I think about it like that.” Roy sighed.
“Isn’t that an old saying? Brother, if you’re just going to sit around being a grumpus, why don’t you just go upstairs and do it where we don’t have to see you?” Li-Ying asked, turning a page in her book.
“Why are you even still in Central?” Roy snorted. She didn’t deign to give him an answer, so he turned his attention back to Riza. “And it’s not helping that this murderer is running around writing me love notes. I’ve been racking my brain, and I have no idea how I could possibly be connected.”
“Have you tried looking at photos?” Riza yawned. “Those are often good at triggering memories.”
“No, I should, though. It’s a good idea. I’ll dig out some old albums. I get this feeling that if I could possibly know the killer, it’s not recently. Don’t ask me why?”
“You have good intuition for a brat,” Li-Ying replied.
“I’m ignoring you.” Roy did a poor job of it, flashing his sister an obscene gesture. “How are you feeling, Riza? You looked tired at dinner.”
“Exhausted. Don’t know why. I was exhausted yesterday, too,” she admitted.
Li-Ying peered at her with more concern than she would ever show Roy. “Of course you are. Living with my brother is enough to exhaust anyone.”
He sniffed in response. “Let’s go upstairs, Riza. Get into bed early and pretend my sister isn’t here.”
“I’ll go put on some music to drown you out, brother.”
Riza wagged her head. “You two are awful, but turning in early sounds good. Come with me, Roy. You can always come back down here and fret in the middle of the night like normal.”
Roy sighed, knowing he would. He took her hand anyhow, heading for the stairs. He could at least find momentary solace in his wife’s arms.
Chapter Eight
“Is the Fuhrer coming here today?” Kennan asked Roy, interrupting the conversation he’d been having with Aris.
Roy nodded. “You said you wanted to talk to her about alchemists, and she wanted to talk to you about the cabal that was just uncovered. It should be fairly informal.” He glanced over Kennan’s shoulder to the visiting priests who had become the man’s shadow. Roy figured they had to be the reason the whole idea of State Alchemists had to be revisited. “At least, I hope so.”
“That is my hope as well. We are not looking for an accounting of the State Alchemists for war trials. In watching the efforts you and the Fuhrer’s brother have put forth, it was proposed there might be a more tangible form of reparations some of the others might be willing to put forth,” Kennan replied.
“I have no idea, but the Fuhrer did ask I not give out that list, or at least as far as I know it, until she arrives.” Roy shrugged. “I’m also not really in the loop about what happened at the Thuja housing project but that was by your request.” A hint of recrimination hung in his words.
“Some of what we heard was the bombs were being built in response to your assistance here at the centre,” Aris said. “Ironic that you were the one to save those people from the bombers.” His dry tone made Roy smile briefly.
“Speaking of which, I need to put a call in to that construction company. Those new apartments should be ready for move-in. I’m sure the people camped out here in the centre will be glad to hear that,” Roy said. It was hard to believe it had been over a week already. At least there had been no more murders with notes to him in the last few days.
“Kennan,” Dev said, coming up behind the priest, leading the Fuhrer, Miles and Riza along with him. “They’re here.”
“Thanks. Where would you like to do this?” Kennan aimed that at Roy.
“These offices are small. No one should be in that conference room on the third floor,” Roy replied, rolling his eyes toward the ceiling.
“That should do fine,” Olivia said.
“Follow me,” Dev said, heading for the stair case. He limped more heavily than he had in the past few days. Roy would have to tell his niece and sister. The weather had kept the young man from visiting and getting a treatment. It was obviously telling on him.
The architect hadn’t known that the Ishbalan Centre was going to be doing double duty as a place of business while an embassy was built. He hadn’t designed a room for holding meetings so a supply room had been taken over for that purpose. However, one round table and chairs all but filled the area. Once they were all seated around the table in the cramped conference room – except for Riza and Miles who stood on guard – Olivia nodded to Miles. He handed Roy a folder.
“That is the official list of State Alchemists. Needless to say, if something starts suddenly happening to them, you will be the first place I look,” Olivia told the priests.
“That isn’t why we want the list,” Kennan assured her. “Mustang and your brother have proven they are worth more alive.” His lips thinned, almost disappearing into his beard. “Though, I suppose the bombing cabal proves not everyone agrees.”
Olivia waved him off. “You’ll never find a place where everyone agrees with their leaders.”
“That is true and we are appreciative that you were willing to entrust young Isaar to our guardianship in exchange for his help naming others in the cabal,” Kennan said.
“He’s also your worry if sympathizers come looking for him,” Olivia replied, leaning back in her chair. “So what did you have in mind with this list?”
“Reparations. We are aware of how well paid State Alchemists are. Surely they could set aside a certain monetary amount over the next few years to help fund the rebuilding of Ishbal or donate time and money. We haven’t come to complete agreement about this yet, but we thought we would at least see the sorts of numbers we’d be dealing with and if you are ready to back such an initiative.” Kennan’s eyes swept over Olivia. “Though, I thought you’d just send the list with Mustang as Ambassador.”
“I had considered it, but I also thought it wasn’t a bad idea, to hear this in person and to be as approachable as I can be in the rebuilding process,” Olivia replied and Roy knew that cost her. Olivia was never a very approachable woman and that was probably one of the hardest parts of her being Fuhrer. Both he and Miles had pushed for her coming here.
“We appreciate it,” Aris said.
“May I see the list of names?” Kennan asked Roy.
“Let’s go over them together. If this was the original roll call from the war, there are a lot of names that can probably be stricken from the list,” Roy said. “Got a pen?”
Dev pulled one out of his pocket. “You never have them.”
“That’s what you’re for. Let’s see here, Avalanche is dead, Blade Jewel is in a mental institution, Brimstone committed suicide. Crimson was killed by Scar for that matter so was Electric, Silver and Iron Blood.” Roy crossed off the names.
“Scar?” Peleg asked, finally breaking his silence. Roy had begun wondering if there were vows of silence in the Ishbalan religion and what his chances of Dev taking one.
“The Scarred Ishbalan. Never did know his name but he killed several of us,” Roy replied. “Crystal and Ice are dead. Wind, Knife, and Thunderbolt are all in the asylum. Anvil, Granite, and Copper were suicides.”
“I’m beginning to wonder how you didn’t end up in an asylum, then I remember that you’ve had a few close calls.” Dev said. “Maybe it would be easier to just circle the ones who didn’t kill themselves or go insane.”
Roy grimaced. “Thanks for reminding me, but you might have a point. I know that we’re seen as heartless monsters. Truth is, not many of us wanted to be in that war. We became State Alchemists for the funds to do our research. Only a few like Crimson and Iron Blood were sadistic enough to enjoy it. The war already took its toll from us. Kennan, you’ve remarked before it was probably a crueler thing to let me live with what I’ve done than demand my execution. You didn’t know how right you are. I’ve visited a few of them in Central’s asylum. Death would be a mercy.”
“And how exactly do you think we should feel about that?” Baruk asked, playing with his brown beard that stretched nearly to his chest.
Roy shrugged. “It’s a fact. You can do whatever you’d like with it. I’m just giving perspective. Ah, here you go, Vine. She would be grateful for a chance to help out. I even know where to find her.”
“That’s a start,” Kennan said.
“Yeah, we might want to request some additional refreshments. This might take awhile.” Roy sighed.
XXX
Al frowned at the bathroom door. How long did it take Winry to shower? His hair was a mess and he had to pee. He had the day off from school, so at least he didn’t have to worry about that. He stumbled down the stairs and contemplated, very briefly, going out in the snow to pee against a tree. Mrs. Hamilton would see him with his luck, and while Ed would probably laugh it off, if Winry found out, she might tie his dick in a knot.
The smell of bacon and coffee captured him, drawing him into the kitchen where Ed was being shockingly domestic. The bacon looked edible. The coffee would be chancier. Ed had a tendency to boil it into a thick syrup more usable as paint stripper than a wake-me-up. Al sat down at the table with a thump. “I have to pee. When did Winry get in there?”
Art by
yuukihikariEd flushed. “You weren’t supposed to be up yet.”
“I know she stayed the night, Ed. Don’t be a prude.” Al waved him off. “We’re going to have to make a schedule if she’s going to be sleeping over more.”
“Sorry. I can go hurry her up if you need me to, or you can just pee down the drain.” Ed shrugged.
“I am not peeing in the sink.” Al considered that for a moment. “And you’d better not be, either. I think we need to reconsider our living arrangements, Brother.”
Ed slapped the wooden spoon down, whirling around. “What do you mean?”
“I mean, this cottage is small and I’m distracted and crabby because I have so much make-up work to do for school.” Al sighed, levering himself back up. He needed to chance the coffee. “I’m suggesting Winry and I trade places. She stays with Roy when she’s here. I could stay with him and Miao-Yin is there. That will be convenient since she helps me study. I’ll be out of your way, and you won’t have to worry about what I’ll overhear, and,” he sighed, longingly, “there are at least three bathrooms at Roy’s.”
Ed came over to him. “Al, I don’t want you to move out.”
“You knew I had to some day, Ed.” Al poured the coffee. “It’s okay. I don’t mind. Roy has a lot of interesting ideas. You know he’s working with me on the healing alchemy and that house is so big, I won’t be in anyone’s way.”
“I don’t want you to feel like I’m driving you off, Al.” Ed swallowed, touching Al’s shoulder.
Al couldn’t quite look at his brother. He didn’t know how to process Edward looking so remorseful on account of something Al had done. “You’re not. I almost said ‘no’ to taking this cottage in the first place. I should have been out on my own and married by now.” He grimaced. Why the hell had he brought that up?
“Al…” Ed reached for him, but Al moved out of range as he went for the sugar.
“It’s about time you and Winry had time for yourselves, Ed.” He spooned some sweetener into the coffee and stirred it.
“I’m not sure I’m ready to move in with her, Al,” Ed replied quietly.
Al turned back to him, seeing Ed looked almost afraid. “Well, I don’t have to move out right away, but it should be something for you and Winry to think about.”
Ed nodded, sighing, and went back to the stove and his cooking. “You’re right. I know it. I guess I’m not…I don’t even know what.”
“Ready to be an adult? Hell, you and I have been adults since we were ten. Clinging to the last vestiges of childhood is probably understandable.”
“Is that what I’m doing?” Ed shrugged. “Maybe. And you’re right. Some days, I wish we could have been kids more, but there’s nothing we can do about that. I’ll talk to Winry. You’re right. If nothing else, we need a schedule for showers so we can all get ready on time.”
“Good.” Al sipped the coffee, then grimaced. “Next we’ll work on getting you lessons on how to make coffee.”
“Bite me.”
Al snorted. That sounded more like his brother. Hearing Winry on the stairs, Al set the death in a cup aside and raced up the steps past her. Even if it was his idea, he’d be rather sad and a little afraid to leave his brother, too. They had been together just a little too long.
XXX
Back during the war, alchemists were given every advantage over their opponents, the Ishbalans. John had taken advantage of that to have his alchemic symbol stamped into a medallion he could wear all the time. Now, with the circle of metal clutched in his hand, he flicked his finger at the whimpering girl.
The skin of her arm split open and she screamed. No one inside the building would hear her over the pounding beat of the dance hall music. “You have beautiful taste in shoes, my dear,” he said.
“Please, please, mister,” she begged, clutching at her arm. Blood ran between her fingers to splatter on the dirty snow. “Don’t kill me. I don’t want to die.”
“That’s too bad.” John flicked his finger again, and the skin of her neck opened. She died, gurgling her own blood. He hated that part but it was necessary. John squatted down and took her beautiful bejeweled heels, tucking them into his jacket pockets. He grinned, seeing the crystal anklet around her slender ankle. John pocketed that before he dipped his automail finger into her blood.
He started scrawling his note to Mustang on the wall, thinking once he got home, he’d have to give his hand a thorough cleaning. He was going to meet with Miss Rockbell tomorrow for his new hand. What a pity she wore ugly work boots. He wouldn’t mind having something her feet had been in. Mustang, is there anything better than a delicate foot dressed in glittering crystals?.
John scowled. That had taken longer to write than he anticipated, and it was messy, but it got the message across. He stomped his feet. Damn, it was cold. It was time to get going before some drunk came out of the dance hall to piss in the alley or something. He couldn’t wait to get home and spend time with his newest conquest.
XXX
“Mmmm,” Roy moaned as Riza shifted her weight off of him. “Too soon.”
“You’ll lose feeling in your arms.” She reached over and undid one of the silk scarves pinning his arms to the headboard.
He wiggled. “I’m just glad you’re feeling better.”
“So am I. It’s no fun being tired for no reason.” As she reached over to undo his other arm, Roy nuzzled her breast. “And I see someone is not tired.”
“Not at all.” He grinned broadly.
Riza trailed her hand, still holding the swatch of silk, down his body to tease his sensitive flesh. He was just beginning to respond to her wonderful touch when the bedroom phone rang.
“Dammit!” Roy rolled out from under his wife. “At this hour, you know it can’t be good.”
“You have to answer it.”
Roy snatched the phone out of the cradle, almost clipping himself in the chin with the mouthpiece as he jammed it to his head. “What?”
“There’s been another one,” Hughes answered tersely.
“Fuck it. Where?”
“Know where the Henshaw Dance Hall is?”
Roy swore again. “I’ll be there as soon as I can.” He dropped the receiver back into its cradle with a crash.
“Another girl?”
“Yeah.” Roy got out of bed and Riza followed.
At his look, Riza said, “I’ll go with you.”
“You don’t have to.”
“I rarely get to look out for you any more, love.” Riza embraced him. “The least I can do is not leave you out in the cold with this horror by yourself.”
Roy kissed her. “That’s one of the reasons I love you.” He went to the bureau. “Need to find my heavy socks. It’s going to be frigid, and we’ll probably be there all night.”
“Middle drawer, left side,” Riza replied. “I’ll go make a quick pot of coffee and put it in a thermos.”
“Another reason to love you forever.”
To chapter nine
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Date: 2012-03-12 01:55 am (UTC)And I see Electric there in your list, so: Hey, Perry! You never get a break! :D (Perry: Someday you will write a fic in which I get a decent role! Okay, you probably won't, but...Hey, a girl can dream, right?)
"Brimstone" is a good alchemist name.
no subject
Date: 2012-03-12 03:05 am (UTC)yep, I used a lot of the alchemists you guys suggested (poor Perry)
I can't even remember if I came up with Brimstone or you guys did
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Date: 2012-03-14 02:22 am (UTC)Nice to see some of the alchemist names you made up, lol. Also interesting how quite a few time either went insane and got killed by Scar (the latter a given).
I like Ed and Al's conversation there. The two talking about how they grew up too fast always gets me. :<
All righty, to the last two chapters (after dinner, lol)!
no subject
Date: 2012-03-14 03:26 am (UTC)Yes the Flist was a big help picknig Alchemist names. I used to be a doc in a VA mental hospital. I know what war does to people and I'm betting the state alchemists didn't fare so well
aw, poor you and poor boys
thank you
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Date: 2012-03-14 07:43 pm (UTC)Such a nice brothers moment! ♥
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Date: 2012-03-15 03:07 am (UTC)glad you're enjoying it. thank you