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cornerofmadnessPetals Fall like Tears
A Color_i_fic story - Color - Cherry Blossom
D M Evans
Rating - R
Pairings - Roy/Riza, Maes/Gracia (and ANY combination of the four of them you can think of), Ed/Winry, Izumi/Sig, Heck even Al, Havoc and Armstrong get a girl
Time Line - Post Anime, ignoring the movie with a few key anime points changed like, Ed’s not in Europe, Al’s not a kid, all of Rush Valley is Manga centered and oh, a few people didn’t actually die.
Summary - With friends and family all around and a Cherry Blossom Festival to go to with new loves, what could possibly go wrong?
Author’s Note - Thanks to evil_little_dog for the beta. This was written for Mjules for her birthday. This is the sequel to If Happiness Forgets You Part One If Happiness Forgets You Part Two , If Happiness Forgets You Part Three and a prequel to Curosity Killed the Teenager and was written as part of the color_i_fic Garden of Eden challenge
Chapters 1-3 of Petals
Chapter Four
Roy stared at the stars. His alcohol had worn off and even the wonderfully comforting sex he had with Riza couldn’t make him sleep through the night. He’d slipped out of bed and came outside to clear his head. The nights were better than desert days, clear, spangled with star shine.
Confessing to Pinako had been the hardest thing he had done in a very long time. Between her and her granddaughter, he was an emotional mess. All the pain he thought he had buried, all those ugly old bones. Why did he feel compelled to dig them up?
“Roy?”
Roy whipped around on the porch lounge chair so fast, he nearly spun out of it. He wasn’t expecting the boy’s voice in the dark. “Alphonse! You startled me.”
“Sorry, sir.” Alphonse sat beside him on another lounge.
“Can’t sleep again, Alphonse?” he asked rhetorically, not sure what the boy wanted.
Al shook his head as he slumped down. “You’d think I’d try to make up for all those years I never slept but I still have trouble sleeping.” He turned his head to meet Roy’s eyes. “You’re awake again, too. Won’t Riza be angry if you’re out here?”
Roy shrugged, settling back. “She’s used to it.”
“I would have thought she would have tired you out tonight,” Al said then clamped a hand over his mouth, feeling his face burn. “I didn’t mean...”
Roy laughed. “And usually you’d be right, Alphonse, but the mind just wouldn’t turn off tonight.”
Al nodded, his face taking a somber cast. “I’ve heard them talking in Central about holding the older state alchemists responsible for Ishbal. That means what I think it does, doesn’t it?”
Roy dragged in a deep breath. “We’re trying to deflect most of the blame onto the deposed generals and the Fuhrer but...my time on this world might be coming to a close if the Ishbalans want retribution.”
Al swallowed hard, his eyes huge in the moonlight. “No wonder you can’t sleep.”
Roy shuddered. “Al, no offense, but I want to talk about less ugly things.”
Al glanced away, berating himself for bringing it up. “Okay...um, well, I know Ed might not agree with me, sir, but I’m glad that you’re taking the time to talk to us about...you know.” Al put a hand over his face.
Roy could imagine the blush. “Sex.”
“Yeah,” Al said in a little voice. “I missed out on the growing up stuff and I barely even remember Dad and...well, just thanks. I’m still not entirely sure I know what’s going on, or what I’m supposed to be doing, but at least I’m not totally clueless.”
“You won’t until it happens...several times. I’m still learning. That’s what makes it fun,” Roy promised. “I have another book, different than the one I gave you. It’s from Xing but there are some hand written comments you could read.”
“Thanks, Roy.” Al’s voice squeaked a bit.
“No problem. Glad to do it...don’t tell your brother or he’ll pitch a fit.” Roy wagged a finger at him.
“I know. You sort of like having younger brothers around, don’t you?” Al smiled at the older man.
Roy sat back, his solitary eye wide. “Is that what you and Edward are?”
“Maybe.” Alphonse gave him a little, knowing smile. “It’s nice, having someone looking out for us, even if Ed wouldn’t say so.”
Roy snorted. “I guess I’m not dad material like Maes is but I wouldn’t mind a few kid brothers.” He paused, a smirk twisting his lips. “Or at least one.”
Al laughed. “At least you can wiggle out of claiming Ed. I’m stuck.”
“You love him so it doesn’t matter,” Roy waved him off.
Al slumped on the chair. “I love him but sometimes he makes me want to pull my hair out.” He glanced over at Roy cautiously. “You’re so much like him, too.”
“Guess you’re in danger of becoming bald.” Roy grinned.
“Well, I’ll leave the pulling hair out over you and your antics to Maes and Riza.” Al laughed. “But it’s true. You and Brother are a lot alike.”
“So how big of a fit do you think Edward would pitch if he heard you say that?” Roy laughed.
“Rush Valley may not survive.” Al regarded Roy curiously. “Does it bother you for me to think of you as family?”
“Of course not. The only family I have is the one I make for myself,” Roy said, his voice rough with emotion. His hands trembled slightly where they rested on the arms of the chair. “I’m honored you’d want me.”
Al nodded. “I do...so you can’t die now, Roy. We’ve already lost too much.”
Roy blinked rapidly, catching his lip with his teeth. He glanced away. “You going back to bed, Alphonse?”
Al leaned his elbows against his knees as he glanced up at the heavens. “I don’t think I could sleep now.”
“Me either,” Roy mumbled.
“Mind if I stay out here and watch the stars, too?” Al asked.
Roy shook his head and rasped out, “Not at all.”
Both men fell silent for a long but comfortable time before finally slipping off to sleep in their chairs.
X X X
“Kelly, this is so sweet,” Coda said, burying her pretty face in the little bouquet of heat-frustrated flowers.
Havoc beamed, moving around the outdoor café’s table to be closer to her. He had been depressed when he saw how pathetic the flowers at the floral shop were but Coda seemed perfectly delighted to get them. “It’s nothing. I like flowers.” Havoc winced. Why couldn’t he be as smooth with the ladies like his personal god was? Mustang made it look easy. Sometimes Havoc felt like an overeager puppy, stumbling along in Mustang’s wake. “What I mean is, would you like to go with me to the flower festival’s dance?”
Coda beamed and took his hand. “I’d love to, Kelly.” Her smile faltered just a bit. “In these parts, do you think there’ll be a lot of soldiers at the dance?”
Havoc frowned at the question. It struck him as a particularly odd thing to ask about. “Why do you ask?”
Coda wrapped her arms around her chest, nearly crushing her flowers. “With all the unrest since the Fuhrer was killed, I’m just a little jumpy. You never know if they still support the old ways or the new. You hear about skirmishes.”
Havoc slipped a protective arm around her lissome form, luxuriating in the feel of her body against his. “No fear, Coda. I’ll take care of you. And you’re right. It can be a little scary out there right now but this is a town event, not a military one so I think things should be just fine, though soldiers are nothing to worry about.” Havoc would hate it if he screwed things up with Coda if she found out he was an undercover dog, which eventually he would have to own up to.
Coda leaned against him, rubbing his belly. “I’m sure you’re right. I’m so glad I met you, Kelly.”
“Me, too, Coda. This dance will be a lot of fun.” Havoc plucked a blossom and tucked it behind her ear.
Coda smiled broadly. “I’m sure it’ll be something to remember.”
X X X
“I’m not wearing this,” Ed proclaimed, stomping out of a patient room in Garfiel’s workshop.
Mr. Garfiel rammed his meaty fists into his hips, his dress hitching up and pursed his painted lips at Ed. “You look fine, better than fine considering what I had to work with.”
Ed huffed. “What’s that supposed to mean?” He whirled around to face his companions. Maes looked far too amused. Izumi and Gracia were whispering to each other, probably about him. Sig seemed more interested in the spare automail on the shelf in the corner than anyone should be. “Look at me! Tell him I can’t wear this.” Ed gestured at the deep plum of his suit jacket and pants. His vest and tie were the same icy blue of Winry’s dress - only Ed didn’t know it - and his shirt was the palest of lilac. “I look like an idiot.”
“You look good, “Maes replied honestly. “Just more...colorful than your usual.” Maes waved a hand at the bright outfit.
“Perfect for a flower festival,” Gracia said, ruffling his hair.
“Yeah, I’ll look like a flower,” Ed snarled, ducking away from her.
“You look fine,” Izumi told him then pointed at the doorway as Winry came in carrying a bag. “But let’s ask your girl.”
“My what?” Ed’s brow beetled, whipping around like a daisy in a wind storm.
“Oh yes.” Garfiel clapped his nicked up and scarred hands. “Winry!” he sing-songed. “What do you think of your young man?”
Winry grinned broadly, setting the bag down. She gave Ed a long appraisal as he wiggled around, uncomfortable with all the attention. “You look so different, Ed,” she said in wonder as if she had never even been able to imagine him in anything but black.
“That’s it, I’m not wearing this,” Ed moaned, tugging on his tie.
“No, it’s a good different,” Winry quickly assured him. “You look very handsome.”
“Doesn’t he? Stand up straight, boy, so she can get a good look.” Garfield slapped Ed’s butt with a meaty hand, making Ed squeak. Garfiel took the blue tie out of Ed’s hands. “See? The color’s perfect, isn’t it?”
Winry’s eyes flashed with delight. She caught Ed’s braid, maneuvering him around with it like a dog on a leash before grabbing his shoulders to spin him around, much to the amusement of the adults. Ed seemed too stunned to fight back. “It really is. You’re perfect, Ed.”
“You have to be kidding,” Ed groaned.
“Ed, I’m the one who has to be seen with you on my arm. I’m not about to lie about how you look.” Winry kissed his cheek and Ed blushed. “Ed, if you’re going home after you change, can you take Roy’s package with you?” She hoisted the bag.
“Winry, don’t let the bastard make you do his work.” Ed sighed.
“Be nice, Edward,” Maes said, wagging a cautionary finger at him and the boy shot him a sulky look.
“And I don’t mind, Ed. Roy’s working.” Winry grinned. “Besides I think he’s embarrassed to buy this.”
“What does he have you buying?” Ed asked, wide-eyed in horror, all sorts of bizarre things dancing in his brain. He grabbed the bag from her and opened it. He lifted out a book, taking in the lurid cover. “Romance novels?” Ed cackled. “He reads romances?”
Winry shoved him. “I think he gives them to Riza, Ed.”
“I’m more likely to believe Mustang reads them than her.” Ed’s shoulders shook as he snickered. He paged through the book, his eyebrows rising at some of the passages.
“Riza has a tender side, Ed,” Maes said, patting him on the back. “She likes romances.”
“And Roy likes playacting what she reads in those books,” Gracia added with a little behind-her-hand giggle.
Ed turned red and shuddered. “I’ve been scarred.” Shoving the book back in the bag, he dropped the whole thing to the floor and looked over at Garfiel. “Can I change back into my clothes now?”
“Yes, yes,” Garfiel waved him off and Ed disappeared, tugging at the tie as he walked.
“Roy’s right.” Gracia laughed as soon as the curtain dropped behind Edward. “It really is simple to make Ed go nuts.”
“He’s always been easy to fluster,” Izumi said, darkly amused by her former student’s antics.
“Hey, everyone!” Paninya called, coming into the workshop, grinning broadly. “I thought I saw Ed stomping that way.” She pointed deeper into the workshop. “Is Al here?”
“No, I think he’s back at the house, Paninya,” Winry said. “He’s probably bored since we’re all out working.”
Garfiel glanced her way at that. “Why don’t you take the rest of the afternoon off, honey? I feel bad making you work so hard when you have guests in town.”
Winry hesitated, looking at all the work then decided to take him up on his largesse, smiling at him. “Thanks, Mr. Garfiel.” Winry turned to Paninya. “Want to come back to the house with me?”
“Sure.” Paninya eyed the patient room, smirking. “Any chance to ogle Ed’s little brother.”
“I heard that!” Ed thundered from behind the curtain.
“How about you all?” Winry asked the adults.
“Sorry, I have to go to work myself,” Maes said with a shrug.
“Gracia, Sig and I have to go to the park to pick up the kids,” Izumi said. “But we’ll be home eventually.”
“Okay. Ed, you about ready?” Winry bellowed then turned to Mr. Garfiel. “Thanks again for letting me have time off.”
“Oh no problem, sweetie. You go and enjoy your company,” he replied airily, waving her off with his frilly handkerchief.
Ed reappeared, carrying his suit in a canvas cover. “I’m ready.”
Winry picked up the bag of books and, after chorusing their goodbyes to the adults, she led the way with the other teens following her.
“That your suit, Ed?” Paninya asked, lacing her hands behind her head as she walked.
“Yeah. Do you really like it, Winry?” Ed asked dismally.
“Again, why would I lie?” Winry asked, looking at him over her shoulder.
“To teach me a lesson.” Ed sighed. “At least Al will look more normal than me.”
“Ed looks great, Paninya, just ignore him.” Winry pointedly didn’t look at Ed as she said this.
“I’m becoming an expert at that.” She laughed.
Ed didn’t know who to glare at first.
X X X
Al knew, leafing through the book Roy had given him, this would be better done upstairs in his room but heat rose. It was absolutely stifling up there even without the pictures raising his temperature. He should be safe enough. Everyone was at work and Teacher, Sig and Gracia were out with the kids. Besides, he was under control now. Okay, there had been that incident early on but a trip to the bathroom had fixed that.
Al wasn’t sure he wanted to know if Roy had tried every position in the book or if some of the notations in it were pure imagination. They were certainly Mustang’s notes. Al recognized the man’s precise, almost flowery handwriting. Roy must be quite the sexual adventurer if he had tried them all.
Al couldn’t read the Xingese text so he had to rely on Roy’s notes. He figured positions that Roy notated as ‘need to be a circus acrobat to attempt’ were way beyond him. He just wanted to find one or two to try when the time came. He wasn’t expecting that time to be any time soon but Al wanted to be prepared.
He was so absorbed in his studying of the book, he hadn’t heard the front door open, hadn’t realized that he wasn’t alone any more until Ed leaned over the back of the and asked, “What are you reading?” Ed’s eyes bugged out. “Al!”
Al flattened on the couch, losing the book as if flew out of nerveless fingers. Ed snagged it from mid-air. To Al’s horror, not only was Winry with Ed but so was Paninya. He considered dropping dead on the spot and saving himself considerable embarrassment. “What are you doing here?” Al cried, stabbing a finger Winry’s way. “Winry’s supposed to be working.”
“I got an early day,” Winry said, draping herself against the couch.
“And I finished my work,” Paninya put in, sitting on the arm of the sofa. “Why are you so red, Al?”
“I can’t believe the bastard gave you another of these books,” Ed raged, waving the book around.
Winry snatched it from him and opened it so she and Paninya could get a look. The girls’ eyes widened.
Al buried his face in the pillow. “It’s not what it looks like,” he cried.
“Can it be anything else?” Winry asked distractedly, paging through the erotic plates.
“I’m not expecting anything at the dance, I promise,” Al said, his volume giving an Ed tantrum a run for its money.
Paninya took the book from Winry and sat down with Al, handing the book back. “I work with men all day. I already know that your kind spend an extraordinary amount of time thinking about sex. It’s okay.” She smiled encouragingly.
Al dropped the pillow, brushing his fingers over his hot face. “I’m still mortified.”
Paninya leaned over and kissed his flaming cheek. “You don’t have to be.”
Winry plopped down on the other side of Al, taking the book out of his lap and opening it. “So...did you find anything that looked fun?”
“Winry!” Ed bleated, his cheeks pinking up. Winry shot him an arched look.
“They all look fun,” Al muttered. “Roy’s notes are even funnier.”
Ed’s eyed darted around as if checking to be a hundred percent sure they were alone. “Show me.” Ed leaned over the back of the couch.
Four heads bent over the book, soft giggles rising upwards.
X X X
Roy trudged along and he was sure his boots weight more than Fullmetal, automail included. Riza hiked next to him, her face red and sweaty. He had never thought she could ever look unsexy but he was wrong. They caught up to Pinako on her way home from town. She wore a light cotton dress. How he envied her, looking cooler than the soldiers could possibly be.
“Now I see why you never settled your mechanics shop here, Dr. Rockbell,” Roy moaned. “Miserable place.”
“I much prefer green pastures. Besides, there I’m needed. Here I’m just one of the many,” Pinako said then cocked her head. “Does it sound like all the kids are in the house? Garfiel must have let Winry out early again. He’s such a soft touch.”
“Wasn’t Edward supposed to meet him today for a fitting for the dance?” Riza asked.
Pinako snickered. “Yes and Garfield was all dressed for the occasion. He had on a frilly sun dress.”
Roy snorted as Riza opened the front door. “I’m sorry I missed that.”
None of the kids seemed to notice they weren’t alone any more. Roy crept forward. Ishbal had taught him to move fairly silently in spite of his boots. He grinned when he saw them clustered around the Xingenese sex book. He popped up over the back of the couch and said, “Hey, that’s one of my favorite positions.”
The teenaged outcry of fury and embarrassment was deafening. Roy caught the book as it went flying then displayed it like a trophy to the women behind him.
“I was always fond of that one myself.” Pinako grinned as she took out her pipe.
“Granny!” Winry bleated, her face crimson.
“Did your friend get around to having that sex talk with the boys, Mustang?” Pinako lit her pipe, trying not to laugh at the anguished cries of Ed and Al.
“I don’t know. I’m still willing to do it. Looks like I would be just in time, too.” Roy laughed.
“No!” Al and Ed said in one plaintive voice.
Riza took the book from Roy and whacked him lightly on the head with it. “You’ll enjoy it to much.” She swatted him again. “Behave.” Riza handed the book back to Al. “Beware of him, Alphonse. Much of your Edward-handling techniques work on Roy but keep in mind he’s older and sneakier.”
“Hey!” Roy and Ed chorused.
“I think I’m embarrassed enough for one day,” Al said, heading for the stairs.
“Come on, Paninya, we can find something more productive to do,” Winry said, grabbing the girl’s wrist and tugging her towards the stairs.
Ed shot Roy a final glare and stomped off. Roy chuckled. “That was the most fun I’ve had in days.”
“You’re a wicked man,” Pinako said, wagging her pipe at him. “I’m beginning to really like you.”
“Thank you, ma’am.” He gave her a short bow.
Riza just shook her head. “I want out of this uniform.”
“Grand idea,” Roy said, following her up the stairs.
Pinako stared after them then snorted. “Youth.”
X X X
“I hate waiting,” Kimbley groaned, lounging on a couch in his linen suit.
“Maybe you’d like it more if you didn’t always have to be so damn dapper. Aren’t your sweating in all of that?” Coda had gotten tired of the prissy alchemist. He took more time with his appearance than most women she knew.
“I’m fine,” he replied tartly. “After all those years in prison, I’m done with waiting. I need action.”
“But are you capable of action?” Coda snarled back. “As if you really have a Philosopher’s Stone.”
“That truly is a wild claim, Kimbley,” General Pendergrass said from where he was studying plans of the town, thinking on the attack they were devising. He wasn’t really listening to the griping alchemists.
“Oh, I have it.” Kimbley waved them off, studying the gold and diamond ring he had stolen and sported on his pinkie.
“Prove it,” Coda demanded.
“Forgive me. This will be a bit rude,” Kimbley apologized then gagged, his stomach convulsing. He finally brought up a glistening red stone. Kimbley held it up, a streamer of saliva between his fingers.
Coda peered closely at it, shock bright on her face. “Can I touch it?”
Kimbley popped it back into his mouth, swallowing. “No.”
She glared at him. Pendergrass cleared his throat and said, “So, you have it. Good. All we have to do now is to keep out of sight as far as Mustang’s men are concerned until the night of the dance.”
“That should be easy enough,” Kimbley said and Coda rolled her eyes as if not believing he could behave himself that long.
“I still have an in with Mustang’s driver. He doesn’t suspect a thing,” Coda bragged.
“He’s more than a driver,” Kimbley broke in. “He’s a sniper. Don’t underestimate him.”
Pendergrass nodded. “Crimson has a very valid point. You’ll have to take Havoc out before you go to aid Kimbley once it all starts.”
Coda smiled wickedly. “My pleasure.”
A Color_i_fic story - Color - Cherry Blossom
D M Evans
Rating - R
Pairings - Roy/Riza, Maes/Gracia (and ANY combination of the four of them you can think of), Ed/Winry, Izumi/Sig, Heck even Al, Havoc and Armstrong get a girl
Time Line - Post Anime, ignoring the movie with a few key anime points changed like, Ed’s not in Europe, Al’s not a kid, all of Rush Valley is Manga centered and oh, a few people didn’t actually die.
Summary - With friends and family all around and a Cherry Blossom Festival to go to with new loves, what could possibly go wrong?
Author’s Note - Thanks to evil_little_dog for the beta. This was written for Mjules for her birthday. This is the sequel to If Happiness Forgets You Part One If Happiness Forgets You Part Two , If Happiness Forgets You Part Three and a prequel to Curosity Killed the Teenager and was written as part of the color_i_fic Garden of Eden challenge
Chapters 1-3 of Petals
Chapter Four
Roy stared at the stars. His alcohol had worn off and even the wonderfully comforting sex he had with Riza couldn’t make him sleep through the night. He’d slipped out of bed and came outside to clear his head. The nights were better than desert days, clear, spangled with star shine.
Confessing to Pinako had been the hardest thing he had done in a very long time. Between her and her granddaughter, he was an emotional mess. All the pain he thought he had buried, all those ugly old bones. Why did he feel compelled to dig them up?
“Roy?”
Roy whipped around on the porch lounge chair so fast, he nearly spun out of it. He wasn’t expecting the boy’s voice in the dark. “Alphonse! You startled me.”
“Sorry, sir.” Alphonse sat beside him on another lounge.
“Can’t sleep again, Alphonse?” he asked rhetorically, not sure what the boy wanted.
Al shook his head as he slumped down. “You’d think I’d try to make up for all those years I never slept but I still have trouble sleeping.” He turned his head to meet Roy’s eyes. “You’re awake again, too. Won’t Riza be angry if you’re out here?”
Roy shrugged, settling back. “She’s used to it.”
“I would have thought she would have tired you out tonight,” Al said then clamped a hand over his mouth, feeling his face burn. “I didn’t mean...”
Roy laughed. “And usually you’d be right, Alphonse, but the mind just wouldn’t turn off tonight.”
Al nodded, his face taking a somber cast. “I’ve heard them talking in Central about holding the older state alchemists responsible for Ishbal. That means what I think it does, doesn’t it?”
Roy dragged in a deep breath. “We’re trying to deflect most of the blame onto the deposed generals and the Fuhrer but...my time on this world might be coming to a close if the Ishbalans want retribution.”
Al swallowed hard, his eyes huge in the moonlight. “No wonder you can’t sleep.”
Roy shuddered. “Al, no offense, but I want to talk about less ugly things.”
Al glanced away, berating himself for bringing it up. “Okay...um, well, I know Ed might not agree with me, sir, but I’m glad that you’re taking the time to talk to us about...you know.” Al put a hand over his face.
Roy could imagine the blush. “Sex.”
“Yeah,” Al said in a little voice. “I missed out on the growing up stuff and I barely even remember Dad and...well, just thanks. I’m still not entirely sure I know what’s going on, or what I’m supposed to be doing, but at least I’m not totally clueless.”
“You won’t until it happens...several times. I’m still learning. That’s what makes it fun,” Roy promised. “I have another book, different than the one I gave you. It’s from Xing but there are some hand written comments you could read.”
“Thanks, Roy.” Al’s voice squeaked a bit.
“No problem. Glad to do it...don’t tell your brother or he’ll pitch a fit.” Roy wagged a finger at him.
“I know. You sort of like having younger brothers around, don’t you?” Al smiled at the older man.
Roy sat back, his solitary eye wide. “Is that what you and Edward are?”
“Maybe.” Alphonse gave him a little, knowing smile. “It’s nice, having someone looking out for us, even if Ed wouldn’t say so.”
Roy snorted. “I guess I’m not dad material like Maes is but I wouldn’t mind a few kid brothers.” He paused, a smirk twisting his lips. “Or at least one.”
Al laughed. “At least you can wiggle out of claiming Ed. I’m stuck.”
“You love him so it doesn’t matter,” Roy waved him off.
Al slumped on the chair. “I love him but sometimes he makes me want to pull my hair out.” He glanced over at Roy cautiously. “You’re so much like him, too.”
“Guess you’re in danger of becoming bald.” Roy grinned.
“Well, I’ll leave the pulling hair out over you and your antics to Maes and Riza.” Al laughed. “But it’s true. You and Brother are a lot alike.”
“So how big of a fit do you think Edward would pitch if he heard you say that?” Roy laughed.
“Rush Valley may not survive.” Al regarded Roy curiously. “Does it bother you for me to think of you as family?”
“Of course not. The only family I have is the one I make for myself,” Roy said, his voice rough with emotion. His hands trembled slightly where they rested on the arms of the chair. “I’m honored you’d want me.”
Al nodded. “I do...so you can’t die now, Roy. We’ve already lost too much.”
Roy blinked rapidly, catching his lip with his teeth. He glanced away. “You going back to bed, Alphonse?”
Al leaned his elbows against his knees as he glanced up at the heavens. “I don’t think I could sleep now.”
“Me either,” Roy mumbled.
“Mind if I stay out here and watch the stars, too?” Al asked.
Roy shook his head and rasped out, “Not at all.”
Both men fell silent for a long but comfortable time before finally slipping off to sleep in their chairs.
X X X
“Kelly, this is so sweet,” Coda said, burying her pretty face in the little bouquet of heat-frustrated flowers.
Havoc beamed, moving around the outdoor café’s table to be closer to her. He had been depressed when he saw how pathetic the flowers at the floral shop were but Coda seemed perfectly delighted to get them. “It’s nothing. I like flowers.” Havoc winced. Why couldn’t he be as smooth with the ladies like his personal god was? Mustang made it look easy. Sometimes Havoc felt like an overeager puppy, stumbling along in Mustang’s wake. “What I mean is, would you like to go with me to the flower festival’s dance?”
Coda beamed and took his hand. “I’d love to, Kelly.” Her smile faltered just a bit. “In these parts, do you think there’ll be a lot of soldiers at the dance?”
Havoc frowned at the question. It struck him as a particularly odd thing to ask about. “Why do you ask?”
Coda wrapped her arms around her chest, nearly crushing her flowers. “With all the unrest since the Fuhrer was killed, I’m just a little jumpy. You never know if they still support the old ways or the new. You hear about skirmishes.”
Havoc slipped a protective arm around her lissome form, luxuriating in the feel of her body against his. “No fear, Coda. I’ll take care of you. And you’re right. It can be a little scary out there right now but this is a town event, not a military one so I think things should be just fine, though soldiers are nothing to worry about.” Havoc would hate it if he screwed things up with Coda if she found out he was an undercover dog, which eventually he would have to own up to.
Coda leaned against him, rubbing his belly. “I’m sure you’re right. I’m so glad I met you, Kelly.”
“Me, too, Coda. This dance will be a lot of fun.” Havoc plucked a blossom and tucked it behind her ear.
Coda smiled broadly. “I’m sure it’ll be something to remember.”
X X X
“I’m not wearing this,” Ed proclaimed, stomping out of a patient room in Garfiel’s workshop.
Mr. Garfiel rammed his meaty fists into his hips, his dress hitching up and pursed his painted lips at Ed. “You look fine, better than fine considering what I had to work with.”
Ed huffed. “What’s that supposed to mean?” He whirled around to face his companions. Maes looked far too amused. Izumi and Gracia were whispering to each other, probably about him. Sig seemed more interested in the spare automail on the shelf in the corner than anyone should be. “Look at me! Tell him I can’t wear this.” Ed gestured at the deep plum of his suit jacket and pants. His vest and tie were the same icy blue of Winry’s dress - only Ed didn’t know it - and his shirt was the palest of lilac. “I look like an idiot.”
“You look good, “Maes replied honestly. “Just more...colorful than your usual.” Maes waved a hand at the bright outfit.
“Perfect for a flower festival,” Gracia said, ruffling his hair.
“Yeah, I’ll look like a flower,” Ed snarled, ducking away from her.
“You look fine,” Izumi told him then pointed at the doorway as Winry came in carrying a bag. “But let’s ask your girl.”
“My what?” Ed’s brow beetled, whipping around like a daisy in a wind storm.
“Oh yes.” Garfiel clapped his nicked up and scarred hands. “Winry!” he sing-songed. “What do you think of your young man?”
Winry grinned broadly, setting the bag down. She gave Ed a long appraisal as he wiggled around, uncomfortable with all the attention. “You look so different, Ed,” she said in wonder as if she had never even been able to imagine him in anything but black.
“That’s it, I’m not wearing this,” Ed moaned, tugging on his tie.
“No, it’s a good different,” Winry quickly assured him. “You look very handsome.”
“Doesn’t he? Stand up straight, boy, so she can get a good look.” Garfield slapped Ed’s butt with a meaty hand, making Ed squeak. Garfiel took the blue tie out of Ed’s hands. “See? The color’s perfect, isn’t it?”
Winry’s eyes flashed with delight. She caught Ed’s braid, maneuvering him around with it like a dog on a leash before grabbing his shoulders to spin him around, much to the amusement of the adults. Ed seemed too stunned to fight back. “It really is. You’re perfect, Ed.”
“You have to be kidding,” Ed groaned.
“Ed, I’m the one who has to be seen with you on my arm. I’m not about to lie about how you look.” Winry kissed his cheek and Ed blushed. “Ed, if you’re going home after you change, can you take Roy’s package with you?” She hoisted the bag.
“Winry, don’t let the bastard make you do his work.” Ed sighed.
“Be nice, Edward,” Maes said, wagging a cautionary finger at him and the boy shot him a sulky look.
“And I don’t mind, Ed. Roy’s working.” Winry grinned. “Besides I think he’s embarrassed to buy this.”
“What does he have you buying?” Ed asked, wide-eyed in horror, all sorts of bizarre things dancing in his brain. He grabbed the bag from her and opened it. He lifted out a book, taking in the lurid cover. “Romance novels?” Ed cackled. “He reads romances?”
Winry shoved him. “I think he gives them to Riza, Ed.”
“I’m more likely to believe Mustang reads them than her.” Ed’s shoulders shook as he snickered. He paged through the book, his eyebrows rising at some of the passages.
“Riza has a tender side, Ed,” Maes said, patting him on the back. “She likes romances.”
“And Roy likes playacting what she reads in those books,” Gracia added with a little behind-her-hand giggle.
Ed turned red and shuddered. “I’ve been scarred.” Shoving the book back in the bag, he dropped the whole thing to the floor and looked over at Garfiel. “Can I change back into my clothes now?”
“Yes, yes,” Garfiel waved him off and Ed disappeared, tugging at the tie as he walked.
“Roy’s right.” Gracia laughed as soon as the curtain dropped behind Edward. “It really is simple to make Ed go nuts.”
“He’s always been easy to fluster,” Izumi said, darkly amused by her former student’s antics.
“Hey, everyone!” Paninya called, coming into the workshop, grinning broadly. “I thought I saw Ed stomping that way.” She pointed deeper into the workshop. “Is Al here?”
“No, I think he’s back at the house, Paninya,” Winry said. “He’s probably bored since we’re all out working.”
Garfiel glanced her way at that. “Why don’t you take the rest of the afternoon off, honey? I feel bad making you work so hard when you have guests in town.”
Winry hesitated, looking at all the work then decided to take him up on his largesse, smiling at him. “Thanks, Mr. Garfiel.” Winry turned to Paninya. “Want to come back to the house with me?”
“Sure.” Paninya eyed the patient room, smirking. “Any chance to ogle Ed’s little brother.”
“I heard that!” Ed thundered from behind the curtain.
“How about you all?” Winry asked the adults.
“Sorry, I have to go to work myself,” Maes said with a shrug.
“Gracia, Sig and I have to go to the park to pick up the kids,” Izumi said. “But we’ll be home eventually.”
“Okay. Ed, you about ready?” Winry bellowed then turned to Mr. Garfiel. “Thanks again for letting me have time off.”
“Oh no problem, sweetie. You go and enjoy your company,” he replied airily, waving her off with his frilly handkerchief.
Ed reappeared, carrying his suit in a canvas cover. “I’m ready.”
Winry picked up the bag of books and, after chorusing their goodbyes to the adults, she led the way with the other teens following her.
“That your suit, Ed?” Paninya asked, lacing her hands behind her head as she walked.
“Yeah. Do you really like it, Winry?” Ed asked dismally.
“Again, why would I lie?” Winry asked, looking at him over her shoulder.
“To teach me a lesson.” Ed sighed. “At least Al will look more normal than me.”
“Ed looks great, Paninya, just ignore him.” Winry pointedly didn’t look at Ed as she said this.
“I’m becoming an expert at that.” She laughed.
Ed didn’t know who to glare at first.
X X X
Al knew, leafing through the book Roy had given him, this would be better done upstairs in his room but heat rose. It was absolutely stifling up there even without the pictures raising his temperature. He should be safe enough. Everyone was at work and Teacher, Sig and Gracia were out with the kids. Besides, he was under control now. Okay, there had been that incident early on but a trip to the bathroom had fixed that.
Al wasn’t sure he wanted to know if Roy had tried every position in the book or if some of the notations in it were pure imagination. They were certainly Mustang’s notes. Al recognized the man’s precise, almost flowery handwriting. Roy must be quite the sexual adventurer if he had tried them all.
Al couldn’t read the Xingese text so he had to rely on Roy’s notes. He figured positions that Roy notated as ‘need to be a circus acrobat to attempt’ were way beyond him. He just wanted to find one or two to try when the time came. He wasn’t expecting that time to be any time soon but Al wanted to be prepared.
He was so absorbed in his studying of the book, he hadn’t heard the front door open, hadn’t realized that he wasn’t alone any more until Ed leaned over the back of the and asked, “What are you reading?” Ed’s eyes bugged out. “Al!”
Al flattened on the couch, losing the book as if flew out of nerveless fingers. Ed snagged it from mid-air. To Al’s horror, not only was Winry with Ed but so was Paninya. He considered dropping dead on the spot and saving himself considerable embarrassment. “What are you doing here?” Al cried, stabbing a finger Winry’s way. “Winry’s supposed to be working.”
“I got an early day,” Winry said, draping herself against the couch.
“And I finished my work,” Paninya put in, sitting on the arm of the sofa. “Why are you so red, Al?”
“I can’t believe the bastard gave you another of these books,” Ed raged, waving the book around.
Winry snatched it from him and opened it so she and Paninya could get a look. The girls’ eyes widened.
Al buried his face in the pillow. “It’s not what it looks like,” he cried.
“Can it be anything else?” Winry asked distractedly, paging through the erotic plates.
“I’m not expecting anything at the dance, I promise,” Al said, his volume giving an Ed tantrum a run for its money.
Paninya took the book from Winry and sat down with Al, handing the book back. “I work with men all day. I already know that your kind spend an extraordinary amount of time thinking about sex. It’s okay.” She smiled encouragingly.
Al dropped the pillow, brushing his fingers over his hot face. “I’m still mortified.”
Paninya leaned over and kissed his flaming cheek. “You don’t have to be.”
Winry plopped down on the other side of Al, taking the book out of his lap and opening it. “So...did you find anything that looked fun?”
“Winry!” Ed bleated, his cheeks pinking up. Winry shot him an arched look.
“They all look fun,” Al muttered. “Roy’s notes are even funnier.”
Ed’s eyed darted around as if checking to be a hundred percent sure they were alone. “Show me.” Ed leaned over the back of the couch.
Four heads bent over the book, soft giggles rising upwards.
X X X
Roy trudged along and he was sure his boots weight more than Fullmetal, automail included. Riza hiked next to him, her face red and sweaty. He had never thought she could ever look unsexy but he was wrong. They caught up to Pinako on her way home from town. She wore a light cotton dress. How he envied her, looking cooler than the soldiers could possibly be.
“Now I see why you never settled your mechanics shop here, Dr. Rockbell,” Roy moaned. “Miserable place.”
“I much prefer green pastures. Besides, there I’m needed. Here I’m just one of the many,” Pinako said then cocked her head. “Does it sound like all the kids are in the house? Garfiel must have let Winry out early again. He’s such a soft touch.”
“Wasn’t Edward supposed to meet him today for a fitting for the dance?” Riza asked.
Pinako snickered. “Yes and Garfield was all dressed for the occasion. He had on a frilly sun dress.”
Roy snorted as Riza opened the front door. “I’m sorry I missed that.”
None of the kids seemed to notice they weren’t alone any more. Roy crept forward. Ishbal had taught him to move fairly silently in spite of his boots. He grinned when he saw them clustered around the Xingenese sex book. He popped up over the back of the couch and said, “Hey, that’s one of my favorite positions.”
The teenaged outcry of fury and embarrassment was deafening. Roy caught the book as it went flying then displayed it like a trophy to the women behind him.
“I was always fond of that one myself.” Pinako grinned as she took out her pipe.
“Granny!” Winry bleated, her face crimson.
“Did your friend get around to having that sex talk with the boys, Mustang?” Pinako lit her pipe, trying not to laugh at the anguished cries of Ed and Al.
“I don’t know. I’m still willing to do it. Looks like I would be just in time, too.” Roy laughed.
“No!” Al and Ed said in one plaintive voice.
Riza took the book from Roy and whacked him lightly on the head with it. “You’ll enjoy it to much.” She swatted him again. “Behave.” Riza handed the book back to Al. “Beware of him, Alphonse. Much of your Edward-handling techniques work on Roy but keep in mind he’s older and sneakier.”
“Hey!” Roy and Ed chorused.
“I think I’m embarrassed enough for one day,” Al said, heading for the stairs.
“Come on, Paninya, we can find something more productive to do,” Winry said, grabbing the girl’s wrist and tugging her towards the stairs.
Ed shot Roy a final glare and stomped off. Roy chuckled. “That was the most fun I’ve had in days.”
“You’re a wicked man,” Pinako said, wagging her pipe at him. “I’m beginning to really like you.”
“Thank you, ma’am.” He gave her a short bow.
Riza just shook her head. “I want out of this uniform.”
“Grand idea,” Roy said, following her up the stairs.
Pinako stared after them then snorted. “Youth.”
X X X
“I hate waiting,” Kimbley groaned, lounging on a couch in his linen suit.
“Maybe you’d like it more if you didn’t always have to be so damn dapper. Aren’t your sweating in all of that?” Coda had gotten tired of the prissy alchemist. He took more time with his appearance than most women she knew.
“I’m fine,” he replied tartly. “After all those years in prison, I’m done with waiting. I need action.”
“But are you capable of action?” Coda snarled back. “As if you really have a Philosopher’s Stone.”
“That truly is a wild claim, Kimbley,” General Pendergrass said from where he was studying plans of the town, thinking on the attack they were devising. He wasn’t really listening to the griping alchemists.
“Oh, I have it.” Kimbley waved them off, studying the gold and diamond ring he had stolen and sported on his pinkie.
“Prove it,” Coda demanded.
“Forgive me. This will be a bit rude,” Kimbley apologized then gagged, his stomach convulsing. He finally brought up a glistening red stone. Kimbley held it up, a streamer of saliva between his fingers.
Coda peered closely at it, shock bright on her face. “Can I touch it?”
Kimbley popped it back into his mouth, swallowing. “No.”
She glared at him. Pendergrass cleared his throat and said, “So, you have it. Good. All we have to do now is to keep out of sight as far as Mustang’s men are concerned until the night of the dance.”
“That should be easy enough,” Kimbley said and Coda rolled her eyes as if not believing he could behave himself that long.
“I still have an in with Mustang’s driver. He doesn’t suspect a thing,” Coda bragged.
“He’s more than a driver,” Kimbley broke in. “He’s a sniper. Don’t underestimate him.”
Pendergrass nodded. “Crimson has a very valid point. You’ll have to take Havoc out before you go to aid Kimbley once it all starts.”
Coda smiled wickedly. “My pleasure.”
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Date: 2007-01-21 05:29 am (UTC)