...The sun was back in its rightful place. And the moon had no choice but to retreat, pale-faced, to its former position in the sky.

"Why'd you cut your hair, Al? I liked it long."

"..."

There were no words for it, that deep sense of inferiority he always felt while standing next to his brother. Golden; god-like; Ed's bright aura permeated wherever he went. Al was simply... eclipsed; faded by the comparison.

That day when the sun had abrubtly vanished from Amestris, the sky had blackened, leaving only starry studs in its wake. And then, slowly, shyly, the moon crept over the horizon.

Al had tried his best, but no one could replace his brother. He was constantly, painfully, reminded of that fact... every time he thought he caught a glimpse, only to whip around and find his lonely reflection. He wore the coat; he grew his hair out. But everyone knew this was only borrowed glory, stolen from the absent deity. Everyone knew, but tolerated Al as the replacement for their lost star. He was only... filling in the gap, after all.

"...I just... felt like it, Nii-san."

Borrowed wings must be shed... once the angel had returned. After all, he had no real right to any beauty and fame himself.

I'll just stand behind and support you from now on, like always. You don't need to pay attention to me... as long as I can stay by your side.

--------

9/4/07, 11:52 PM

Written to: "Running Up That Hill" (Placebo version)

Typed to: "Tragedies" (Loveless OST)