Author's note: When I was first introduced to the characters Ling Yao and Lan Fan, I found the concept of the bodyguard falling for her liege incredibly endearing and romantic. Lan Fan is my favorite character in FMA , and after all her devotion and sacrifice deserves a happy ending (not to mention the inadequate amount of fics concerning them…). This is my first fanfic and has been quite a while since I've watched the series, so any helpful advice and tips to improve this story is more than welcome.

Setting: This takes place after the defeat of Father, as Ling Yao, Lan Fan, and Mei Chang start their journey back to Xing.

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters and story of Full Metal Alchemist. All are the property of Arikawa.


Reflection

The three compatriots of Xing began their long, arduous trek in the desert. The desert was a monotonous expanse of light brown sand, as far as the eye can see. Sparse vegetation can be seen distributed throughout the arid land, but in most cases the only thing that greeted the three pair of eyes was the beige, hilly waves of the desert. Aside from the dreary landscape, the Sun burned with a hellish fire, the star's rays greedily striking and stinging the exposed, naked skin of the Xingese.

Ling Yao was reminded yet again of the difficulty and severity of his first trip in the desert. While he inwardly complained of the heat, he was interrupted by a loud, gurgling sound originating from his stomach.

The young prince looked toward his bodyguard, and whined, "Lan Faaannn, I'm starving! We've been traveling for hours, do you think we can eat now?"

Lan Fan looked toward her liege; her face mixed with concern and empathy. "Would you like to stop and rest for now, young master?"She nodded her head down in contemplation. "If you'd like I could also hunt and forage for more food if you are not satisfied with what we have".

Ling Yao realized they still had sufficient food and water, and to use it so recklessly would be unwise. The more rational side to him thought it would be wise to eat a light meal when it was nightfall despite his voracious appetite. Not to mention, he deeply respected and cared for Lan Fan, and did not want her to trouble herself for his own selfish fancies.

So with a big grin he jovially said. "Nah, it's alright Lan Fan I can wait till dusk, it might be better to conserve our supplies for our trip. Besides I couldn't bear to see you running about in this terrible weather. I'll live!"

"Young master, I assure you it is-"

"No Lan Fan," Ling Yao said in a tone of finality tampered by compassion. "I think it would be better to reach Xing as quickly as possible. We still have food and water and to get any more would be overindulgence."

"…as you wish, young master."

"Good!" Ling Yao said. His expression relaxed and he placed his hands behind his head. "I'm also worried that little Mei Chang might not be able to handle the heat, if we stay here too long". He directed a teasing smile toward the young girl.

Mei Chang huffed in a puff of annoyance. "I'm a princess of the Chang clan," she said proudly. "There's no way a little sand is gonna get to me".

A small furry mass of black and white appeared behind Mei Chang. Xiao Mei scowled at the squinty eyed boy and nodded in agreement with the little girl.

The retainer of the Yao clan blushed at the fact that her liege was concerned for her well being, and concealed it under her scarf. After the blush resided, Lan Fan allowed herself a small smile as she watched her master teasing Mei Chang while she rose to the bait.

They continued traveling with the aid of their camels. After covering a good amount of land the sun finally went down. Thankful for the respite from the scorching rays, they eventually set up camp.

Their meal was bland and tasteless; comprised of a few strips of dried jerky followed by water, the food and drink did little to appease their hunger. Though brave and determined, Mei Chang was thoroughly exhausted and soon fell sound asleep in the sand. The young girl was splayed across the ground ungracefully, and a sliver of saliva appeared at the corner of her mouth. Xiao Mei's head was placed near the chest of the young girl and was sleeping soundly as well. The camels fell suit as well and slept in the cool, soft sand.

Ling Yao looked at the pair with a bemused expression on his face, and silently stated that he would bring the two into their tent, later on during the night. Ling then turned his head upward and stared at the celestial canvas before him. Countless stars dotted the sky shining with the brilliance of diamonds.

So beautiful!

The young prince never had the opportunity to appreciate the simple yet humbling beauty of the night sky.

As he continued to stare upward, Ling Yao reflected on the long and arduous adventure that he had just completed. His journey across Amestris had certainly been one filled with excitement and wonder. His mouth subtly twitched upward as he happily recalled the sense of wonder he felt in being in a country whose traditions and people were so very different from his own. During his sojourn, he met many friends and allies along the way. The most memorable being the Elric brothers. A wave of nostalgia hit Ling as he remembered the rocky relationship he had with Edward; though in time they became comrades and close friends. Ling respected Edward's obstinate nature and strong will; with a knowing certainty, the future emperor of Xing realized his company will be missed once he reached his homeland.

Ling Yao was suddenly acutely aware of the necklace hanging around his neck. He placed the stone on the palm of his hand and intently stared at the object.

The campfire basked the crimson stone in an unearthly glow, hinting at the immense power residing within the miniscule jewel. The abilities of this stone far surpassed the rationale and capabilities of modern alchemy. Its capabilities, endless, possessing even the secrets to immortality. An artifact that was known across the world and regarded by all as a legend, and mere fancy….the Philosopher's stone…and it was in his hands.

While Ling shuddered at the very idea that the stone was a byproduct of thousands of unfortunate souls, he couldn't help but beam with pride and happiness of having acquired it. The Philosopher's Stone was the key to reaching his ultimate goal…to become Emperor of Xing. With the power of his position he can ensure the advancement of his clan. More importantly he can finally take action to protect the livelihood and happiness for the people of Xing.

But at what cost?

His happy demeanor suddenly changed to one of sadness as the undesired thought interrupted his reverie. Ling looked at the body laying a few feet away from the fire.

The body of Fu was still wrapped up by thick blankets to protect from the rays of the sun earlier in the day. Despite the distance from Ling, the young prince could still faintly smell the mixture of embalming oils emanating from Fu's body.

Ling's heart weighed down heavily on him. He was acutely reminded of the lives lost and the violence that ensued in pursuit of the Philosopher's stone.

Ling's thoughts turned on Greed, the entity that had once been a part of him. He initially despised the possessive homunculus. He disliked the flippant and rude nature of the being, just everything about him. But perhaps his ire stemmed from the fact that, in a sense, the being represented his darkest thoughts and desires. He also reminded the prince of just how ravenous he was, despite Ling's noble intentions.

What he did not come to expect was that he would eventually call Greed a comrade and true friend. Despite Greed's many flaws, he eventually cared for Ling. In his last act of redemption, Greed sacrificed himself against Father to protect the heir. He was a man that constantly longed and coveted for power and affluence; a man that was never satisfied with what he was given. But ultimately found contentment in protecting a person he considered a friend. Ling will always remember him.

As his mind turned once again toward Fu, Ling's mind was wracked by guilt and regret. Since the day he was born, Fu had watched over the young master. The battle-hardened warrior was a gruff and serious individual who had no tolerance for foolishness. Despite this he was always near the prince. Whether he was raiding the pantry, or teetering dangerously high on a branch of a tree in the family garden, Fu would always be there to make sure no misfortune befell the carefree toddler.

As Ling got older, Fu would supervise his martial arts training. Though charged with the protection of his lord, Fu gave Ling no quarter in training, pushing him to the limits despite the heir's protests. When asked for advice, Fu would offer his own insight to Ling. Though the bodyguard's wisdom was brief and concise, Ling always took his advice to heart, and ultimately shaped his nature and sense of morality.

It pained him to know that he can no longer take comfort in the company and watchful eye of the elder.

(Flashback)

The sound of metal grinding on metal echoed throughout the large building. The cacophony of a fierce battle occurring was deafening. The two combatants whirred around Wrath with a feline speed and grace, attacking at all angles. Greed and Fu attacked him ferociously with the intent to keep the Fuhrer on the defensive.

Yet Bradley continued defend himself against the elite martial artists with ease. With his Ouroborous eye, he easily calculated the trajectory and speed of each technique thrown at him. Wrath with chilling poise blocked all of the Xingese best attacks, weaving in and out of the moves when needed.

The Fuhrer eventually gained the upper hand and trapped Ling with one of his combat knives, as he turned his sights on Fu.

Greed gritted his teeth in frustration. 'Shit..this guy's ridiculously strong. And that damn eye…'

'Hey! This isn't the time to think about this, we have to help Fu!' Ling yelled out to the Homunculus.

Fu was defending himself admirably against the powerful opponent. As he prepared himself to block the next strike, Fu was alarmed as he saw that the Fuhrer put his knife through the ring, at the end of Fu's sword hilt.

In one quick movement, the sword was sent flying through the air. Bradley threw the knife at Fu's head, the bodyguard's honed reflexes allowed him to instinctively catch the weapon.

However the Fuhrer obtained Fu's sword. After a series of movements, Fu lay on the floor as Bradley raised the sword above his head, ready to deal the killing blow.

'Gramps is in trouble! You've got to do something!' Ling called out in desperation.

'It's too late you dumb-'

Internally Greed heard Ling cry out in anger and realized that he was quickly losing control of the body.

In a sudden burst of speed Ling rescued Fu.

'Dumbass! You could've gotten yourself killed' Greed reprimanded

Ling narrowed his eyes exuding a dark vibe and spoke with finality. 'Shut up'

Fu was bleeding heavily, his head bent down with exhaustion, and said with a hoarse voice, "Young master…you must leave…I'll hold him off as you make your retreat"

"What the hell are you talking about, there's no way I'm abandoning you gramps!" Ling said in an indignant tone. The young prince then stared at Wrath with a burning hatred. "A king exists for his people, without them, the king is nothing. Bradley plans on abandoning the people of this country. Are you asking me to be like him. I REFUSE!"

Fu internally beamed with pride as if Ling were his own son at the young man's wisdom and noble nature. He was relieved that despite the homunculus residing within him, the prince was still there. Hearing these words, Fu ultimately knew that he would become emperor. The man needed usher in an era of great peace and much needed change in Xing.

"A man unworthy of being a king, huh?" questioned Fu. The bodyguard then made to stand up with his own conviction. "Then it is my duty to defeat him.."

"No, take it easy gramps! You have to rest!"

Fu looked down at his body, and saw the crimson water gushing forth from all his injuries. His life force was slowly eking away from him, and he would die soon.

With a knowing smile, Fu said, "Yes..I agree. This old body has seen enough bloodshed and violence…I shall rest."

The bodyguard struck Ling and the prince fell prone to the floor.

"Greed, protect the master and harden his body!" Fu said as he made a mad dash against the Fuhrer.

"Fu! Where the hell do you think you're going!"

'I'm sorry master", Fu thought sadly, 'But it looks like my knowledge and skills are no longer needed. You've grown into a fine young man. If I must sacrifice my body and soul to ensure that you will be Emperor, I will gladly pay that price…"

"As your prince I command you to stop!" Ling yelled out again in desperation, despite knowing what would happen.

As Fu ran to Bradley, he fingered the bombs hidden beneath his clothing, preparing for his final moments. He looked back at Ling one last time. 'Young master…I know it is not my place…but I entrust you with the protection of Lan Fan….Please look after my granddaughter, in my absence'.

"Fu…please…" whispered Ling. A few tears brimming on the prince's eyelids.

Within moments, the great and proud warrior knew no more…

XX

Ling Yao was hanging at the precipice, with Bradley in tow. Just as he was about to fall, an arm of metal came out and grabbed his arm.

"Lan Fan!", Ling called out. Influenced by Greed's persona he reprimanded her. "Idiot! Your arm can't handle it! Just let me go and save Fu!"

Ling noticed the blood coming from her shoulder. But he did not know the sorrow of the young girl, until he felt the physical touch of her tears. The tears felt warm and soothing in his tanned skin, but at the same time the touch of those liquid drops made tangible the poor girl's anguish and sorrow.

"It's too late…" Lan Fan said with a pained and hoarse voice. The girl's eyes were leaking profusely with tears. "He has already passed on.."

As the young man looked into the girl's beautiful obsidian eyes, he felt stabs of pain in his own heart. He had never seen such pain and anguish in his childhood friend's eyes before.

'Lan Fan..'

(End Flashback)

The image of Lan Fan's morose expression popped up in Ling's head. Unconsciously he clenched his fists tightly, and gritted his teeth in frustration.

Ling Yao scolded himself for forgetting about Lan Fan. While wallowing in his self-pity, he did not even think to consider what his bodyguard has been going through. Lan Fan's affection and love for her grandfather probably equaled to or exceeded Ling Yao's.

She's probably still hurting after her grandfather's death considering she hasn't really had a chance to mourn her loss.

Ling also realized at that point the bodyguard had been away from the campfire for several hours.

The future emperor of Xing furrowed his brow in concern, worried for the safety of his vassal. Though his worries were probably unnecessary, since Lan Fan's prowess in battle were exceptional and rivaled even the most skilled martial artists in Xing despite her youth.

Nonetheless, Ling stood up and brushed himself off. He then brought Mei Chang and the diminutive panda into the tent and set off in search of Lan Fan.

To the young prince, Lan Fan was his most loyal bodyguard and oldest friend, still unaware that his feelings for her were much more than that.


End note: Well hope you liked the first chapter. I kind of rushed on it, and wanted to include Lan Fan's pov in this chapter, but really just wanted to post this up right away (so I apologize if it's a little bit rushed or sloppy). As you probably know I added some quotes from the show but adapted it a bit to fit this story. Please, let me know what you think!