A Harmless Fantasy
Chapter Two
My Test of Character
- mirage-
"Edward Elric." Colonel Mustang broke a grin watching the boy slip into his office and come quickly to sit before his desk. "How has your recovery been?" Mustang chuckled.
"Took twenty minutes, so wipe that smile off your face." Ed snapped frowning at him. "I wanted to ask you a question colonel." Ed began and Colonel Mustang sat back eager for this. Edward Elric was quite the source of entertainment.
"I am all ears Ed." Mustang nod.
"Does Tucker know anything about human transmutation?" Ed asked but Mustang frowned.
"Why is it, always taboo with you." Mustang sighed.
"Answer me." Ed demand.
"I am sure as an alchemist he knows something." Mustang said vaguely and Ed was quiet waiting for more. "That's all I am saying. I didn't send you to his house to study human transmutation. I sent you there to prepare for the state alchemy exam. Don't forget that." Mustang said firmly and Ed bristled getting to his feet quickly. "What is that?" Mustang asked squinting at the boy's neck and small red mark.
"What's what?" Ed asked glancing behind him.
"Come here." Mustang ordered pushing his chair back from his desk quickly and Ed hesitate before obeying as he thought he must. When the boy was close enough Mustang pulled him closer yanking the collar away from his neck. "Where did you get this mark?"
"What mark?" Ed asked confused running his fingers over his neck feeling nothing.
"You're not to have any visitors over at Tuckers." Mustang ordered firmly. "Are you seeing any girls?" Mustang demand but Ed blushed instantly.
"Are you nuts! I am studying!" Ed snapped jerking from Mustang's hold. "You think you're really funny." Ed sneered stomping for the door. "Bye!" The boy yelled slamming it behind him and Mustang was quiet. That was a hickey, no doubt about it. Right on Edward's neck. Under his shirt collar it looked like there was another one, but he couldn't see it clearly. How or why would the boy have those?
It was later that day after Edward returned Mustang called Tucker and insist the boy have no visitors and absolutely no exposure to any females his age, older, or younger aside from Nina. Then the colonel really did want to talk to him about his books on human transmutation and this was a surprise considering his bluff a few days earlier. The conversation was strange and half way through he realized the boys were spying on him from around the corner. They were straining to hear what he was saying as he stood in the kitchen on the phone. So, he spoke louder. When Mustang ordered him to take his human transmutation books and hide them, and forbid the boys access he agreed and quite clearly said he would move them to his library and put them in the armoire with the lock. He also added he would tell the boys they were restricted and punish them if they stole into the books. Mustang was appeased and he spoke into the phone grinning, knowing it was only a matter of time until Edward could not contain his curiosity, the same way he could not contain his.
To trap the boy he gave him ample opportunity to get himself in trouble. He left the library door open often. Left the keys lying about accidentally. Took a few outings in which he was supposed to be out for a while but came back quickly, forgetting something, needing something, and then changing his mind. All of which the boys were still where he'd left them studying diligently and neither caring nor really taking notice of his blunders. He had to think about why it was Edward was exercising such self restraint. It was obvious the boy would not want to get caught, but he made sure to heavily guard the room when it was not convenient for him to have Ed get in. So what was slowing the boy down? Then it hit him. The brother.Edward would not go against him with the eyes of his brother weighing on his shoulders. Therefore he must remove the younger Elric. This was easily accomplished. A long list of errands, and Alphonse was gone. Second, he must also be gone for Edward to act, and so he made himself another list and informed Edward he'd try to be back soon as it was rather late, but it would be at least an hour. He played several word games making sure to inform Ed he was alone, no one was coming, and to please call either the colonel or major if he needed anything.
Then he left, and twenty minutes later returned after having forgotten his wallet, and where was the boy? In the library, armoire open, book in hand. "Oh Edward." He sighed opening the door and startling the boy. Edward leapt to his feet startled and bowed holding the book. "You know these books are off limits." He continued sounding sad.
"I know." Ed spoke to the floor before standing quickly. "I apologize. I was curious." Ed admit looking worried and unsure where this would go.
"I suppose I'll phone the colonel then." He announce walking by the boy toward his great desk and Ed whirled to him. "See what he suggests." He sigh picking up the phone.
"Mr. Tucker!" Ed yelled coming right to his side. "The colonel specifically ordered me not to touch these books." Edward confessed quickly. "I know I wasn't supposed to, and my apology does not balance my transgression, but can we please just..not tell him?" Ed asked and he made a confused expression.
"We both report to the colonel in this situation. You're asking me not to?"
"Please." Ed begged and he glanced at the receiver in his hand. "Please! Perhaps, well we could..." Ed trailed glancing about for ideas. "You could punish me instead. As long as I am punished that's equivalent exchange for my forcing access to these books, right?" Ed asked and he kept his confused expression.
"I suppose."
"Then that settles it." Ed encouraged eager to get him away from the phone. "I'll take my punishment from you, and we'll leave the colonel out of it. Then once my debt is paid, there's no reason to ever speak of this again." Ed spoke fast. The boy was happy with his solution and eager for him to agree.
"Edward do you think that's honest?" He asked sounding reluctant. He must not be too eager. Must never be too eager.
"It's equivalent." Ed answered and he sighed sitting the receiver down.
"I suppose the colonel wouldn't be too happy with either of us." Ed nod quickly offering him the book. "This matter might best be kept between us." He agreed and Ed nod again. "So I'll punish you." He said walking to his upholstery chair and sitting down with the book. Ed stood at his desk watching him and seeming almost excited about how smoothly this was going. "I suppose, the most suitable way to do so, would be to punish you as any other young boy." He sighed turning to Ed whose face showed no recognition. There were many options here, he must be selective and careful. Edward had played right into his hands, just as he had hoped. "Were you punished as a boy Edward?" He asked and the blonde gave a shrug.
"Sometimes. Not a lot." Edward admit. "It was just my mom and..." Edward trailed and he could sense the combination of the boy's obedience to his mother, and a woman's soft heart. "I did spend some time in the corner though." Edward chuckled rubbing the back of his head with a short blush before glancing at him.
He smiled. This would give him room. Edward would not be able to identify a difference with only his mother for a comparison. "I see." He said beckoning the boy to him. "Well a man punishes differently. I'll punish you as though you were my disobedient son considering you are living within my home as my son would." Ed didn't fight this concept. "I'll give you a brief spanking, and with that I think your debt will be paid." He explained kindly but Ed's face tightened looking nervous and also reluctant. "Come here, you'll go over my knee." He said extending a hand and Edward's eyes widened a bit, and the boy's cheeks started heating up. He remained confident. This was not an extreme, or even unusual punishment for a child Edward's age in their society. In his favor, even if Edward's mother had never struck the boy, he could still rightly do so in Edward's mind. The alternative being of course, to alert the colonel.
"You could always just-I am just throwing this out there–but you could just put me in the corner." Ed spoke quickly. "I didn't mean to touch these books." Ed add. "It just happened-I mean I was curious-this is what I want to learn about in the end. I didn't mean it." Ed continued coming to him slowly. "I feel remorse already; you don't have to force it." Ed offered looking miserable as he stopped along side of him.
"A strong boy like you, requires a stronger punishment than that of his childhood." He rationalized. "Unless of course, the punishment fits the kid." He said implying Edward would have to admit he was still such a child he fit, and accept the punishment of his past.
Ed frowned and came back with a quick tongue. "Correct me if I am wrong, but only children are spanked as well." Ed managed and he smiled but took hold of the boy's arm. Ed startled with the sudden contact between them. "I am not sure I did something bad enough to-for this." Ed argued still trying to talk his way out. He was patient, Edward must not be too upset the boy become truly alarmed, simply enough to be distracted by the concept rather than his hands. This would truly be an opportunity. Delightful. "I am pretty big. This is usually for kids younger than me Mr. Tucker I…" Ed couldn't grasp a firm argument, but was trying. Watching the boy squirm made it so much better than it already was.
"Yes. That's true." He said pulling the boy to his thighs and Ed was uncomfortable and very stiff when he tugged the boy over them, lifting him a bit when he wasn't cooperating. "However, this is also a stronger punishment, for older children. One who knew better, but ignored better judgment." He scold almost firmly and Ed was quiet with that. The boy couldn't deny that's what he was doing, and laid over his lap with that perfect leather ass resting on his knee so very tight. "I think a few smacks from the book you were reading is appropriate." He said picking up the fat alchemy book and he felt Ed move a bit.
It was heaven to have this boy bent back over him after just days ago having him in the same position and enjoying the body as he saw fit. Edward moved his torso making it easier on his stomach and he felt the boy reach for the floor but Ed was too short and hung over him unable to touch on either side. "I will begin in a moment." He sighed rubbing the book down on the boy's ass and Ed twitched. He watched carefully to see where Edward's concern would lie. With the touch? Or the punishment?
"Hurry up please." Ed muttered and he smiled at the boy's discomfort. Edward was mentally engrossed in the predicament he'd worked himself into, and felt this already ending in his favor. He gave the book a few rubs about the seat of Edward's pants before lifting it and letting it fall. It was a heavy book and it hit Edward's flat cheeks with a small thunk.
Ed gasp lifting his legs up directly after impact to shield himself.
"Now now." He hushed pushing them back down. "You'll receive more than one." He chuckled raising the book again and Thunk, it was great to spank this boy. This was Edward's first spanking and he gasp and jolt with each blow. The wiggling made it intense for him, and by the sixth blow Ed released a whine which went right to his libido. In his head he saw himself pushing this boy down between his legs and getting his hot meat back in Edward's mouth. He'd hold the back of Edward's head and help him suck, then reach down and push his finger back inside the boy as Edward drank him. "Alright, I think that's enough with the book." He said swallowing roughly and dropping it to the floor after only six. He needed a break perhaps more than the boy himself. To his delight Ed reached back with his hand and rubbed at his black bubbled ass. The small fingers squeezing into the child pudginess was too much for him. He froze and licked his lips watching the boy rub muttering small comments of discomfort.
He needed more.
With Edward this absorbed in his embarrassment, more would be easy to get. "Are you crying?" He asked helping Ed back to his feet and Ed's face was strained and embarrassed, but no tears had come. His words helped make things worse for the boy. Helped make things easier for him. "The purpose of a spanking is to make the disobedient boy repent." He explained preparing himself for his next move. "Push down your pants; you'll have my hand now." He ordered and Ed's eyes almost popped out.
"But I..." Ed began before silencing shocked. "But I thought I was done!?" Ed exclaimed quickly rubbing with one hand.
"No Edward." He shook his head to those wide eyes. "You need to be punished for your offense." He explained before moving his eyes to the boy's belt. To have this again, it was marvelous. "Take them down now please." He kept his tone calm, but he could see Edward's stern reluctance now. The boy had just gotten free of a position he just learned he hated. Now the concept of going back in was not something Edward wanted. So, he let Ed see his eyes wonder to the phone and with a hard cringe and short stomp Ed was working on his belt.
"This sucks." Edward growled bending over as he pushed his pants to his ankles before looking back up, and taking his pants off almost brought the boy to tears.
"Yes, shame is part of punishment." He agreed grabbing the boy about the waist and hoisting him back up. "You are to feel ashamed for what you've done."
"I do! I told you that!" Ed yelled at him.
"Yes, I know Edward." He smiled taking hold of the boy's boxer rim and pulling it down.
"What are you doing!?" Ed cried out reaching back and pushing to get up.
"I apologize; did I forget to mention my hand would be on bare skin?" He asked innocently.
"Yes you did!" Ed yelled jamming his eyes closed, and reaching back for his pants. "I am not comfortable with this MR. TUCKER!" Ed yelled sounding panicked and he had to think fast.
"Of course." He answered pulling up the rim and Ed yanked it up once it was in reach, sniffling out a few tears the panic had caused. "I am sorry Ed; perhaps this was a bad idea. I'll call the colonel. I'll report everything right away. He may be displeased and disappointed but that..." He stopped when Ed locked into place over him. "Edward?"
"I-I was just startled." Ed whimpered. "I am sorry." The boy croaked. "I don't want to call the colonel." Ed squeaked and he grinned over the boy. This was marvelous.
"No." He hushed petting Edward's head gently. "No you don't, do you." He whispered keeping his laughs to himself. Ed let his pants go then, and moved his hand back to the other. "It's alright." He soothed stroking his hand down the boy's boxer covered ass. "I won't call him." He hushed pulling them down and Edward was again bare over him, hanging over either side like he had that night. Oh how wonderful it would be to jam his thumb up there now and hear the boy cry and kick. "You're a good boy after all." He hushed stroking the naked cheeks. He had managed to get here, and was proud and excited. Edward was so upset with the principle of it the boy didn't notice how gently he ran his hand down his skin in thrill each time Edward shift his weight or sniffled. Still, he was careful and couldn't let Edward really understand this. As long as Edward would chew on his words, and the displeasure of the colonel was as long as he would risk petting and holding the boy this way.
A minute later he raised his hand and slapped hard the way he had when Edward was unconscious. Only this time Edward was coherent.
"AhOW!" Ed cried out locking his legs and clenching. "That hurt!" Edward snapped irritated as he rubbed the red print. He had hit very hard, and no doubt it did sting. Still even now as he sat rubbing Edward's mind was on the pain and not his hands. He was free to rub and pet. "How many of these must I endure Mr. Tucker?" Ed asked before whining when he slapped the other cheek just as hard. .
"Six Edward." He supplied laying another one down.
"Ooww." Ed wiggled.
"Combined with the book, that's one for each year." He hushed rubbing the boy's red cheeks gently. With the pain Ed didn't notice if he were rubbing or squeezing. The boy just squirmed. "After this I'll put you to bed." He said. SLAP. "That seems a fine punishment." He gave the boy another.
"Ooww-ok-ok!" Ed cried reaching back and covering himself as best he could.
"I'll giveyou a minute to rub." He offered, "If you'd like it." He was hoping Ed would take it, and the boy did. Edward was hissing and rubbing at his skin over his lap. He could feel the boy squirming on his thighs. The hip bones, the small shoulders all moving and he closed his eyes and let himself enjoy it before pulling Ed's hands aside. "Last one." He reassured again tugging the boy's reluctant hands off his red skin. Then he gave the boy the hardest slap he could, right in the middle and Edward screamed and wanted up. He let Edward push up; dragging up his pants looking upset and lost without his brother or figure of comfort. "There there." He hushed pulling the boy into his arms for a hug. "Punishment is not easy. You're done, and you did a good job." He whispered holding tight as Edward whined keeping a hand over his face. "It's ok to cry." He reassured gently.
"I-I don't want to-to talk about this-ever." Ed hiccupped. "To-to anyone." Edward cried and he nod. Yes, that was the best way. Always the best way.
"Alright Edward." He agreed graciously. "You have my confidence." He whispered pulling back and the boy was wiping at his eyes quickly.
"Doo-do you think-think less of me?" Ed cringed and he smiled laying a hand on the boy's hair and standing.
"No." He reassured starting from the room and Ed followed, walking a bit awkwardly. "No I don't." He opened the boy's bedroom door for him and Edward went in and began changing obediently. The boy was no longer nervous with him in the room and changed into a soft cotton shirt and climbed into his bed sniffling. "Goodnight Edward." He whispered leaning down to the boy and patting his shoulder. "I'll see you tomorrow." He whispered smelling the boy's hair quickly before kissing his temple and leaving. Edward lay behind him clutching his pillow upset and very confused, and he chuckled as he shut the door and left. This boy was smart, but easier to manipulate than you would think.
"A hickey." Hughes repeat lifting an eyebrow. "He's too young." Hughes snort.
"I am telling you that's what it was." Mustang repeat frowning at Hughes who sat on his desk lazily. "Get off the desk."
"Where is Edward, I haven't seen him in a while." Hughes said tapping his chin. "Mustang, honestly what are you so grouchy for." Hughes frowned turning to Mustang who had fallen silent.
"The boy is acting suspicions." Mustang deadpan.
"He's twelve. However he's acting it's probably normal." Hughes scold.
"What do we really know about Tucker. He lives alone. No wife." Mustang left it at that and Hughes was silent. "He never goes out. He's secretive. I've taken two boys and put them in his house, and now I have one walking around with hickies." Mustang said looking up at Hughes. "I have thoughts that are turning my stomach."
"You understand what you're saying. That Tucker might be..." Hughes trailed eyes locked with the darker pair of Roy Mustang.
"The idea is not entirely impossible." Mustang correct. "In fact the concept of how very real and possible it is, never mind how easy it would be to do is what has me like this." Mustang sighed bringing a hand to his face.
"If your honestly concerned then we should do something." Hughes retort seriously. "We'll just have to do it so no one notices." The man said slowly and Mustang looked up frowning. "Who's working in the medical wing right now?"
"What are you thinking?" Mustang asked before looking up with the knock on the door. "Great." Mustang grumbled and Ed stepped it with a solute before spotting them both.
"Major what are you doing here?" Ed asked growing a smile and Hughes instantly burst into play.
"Well I just came down to read your reports, considering I've heard such good things." Hughes announced.
"You have?" Ed perked up before frowning when Hughes leaned down to the boy.
"Edward you don't look so good." Hughes speculate before turning to him with an eye flare.
"He's right, are you under the weather?" Mustang second and Ed looked lost.
"No, I feel fine." Ed offered taking a step from Hughes who only moved closer.
"No, there are bags under your eyes." Hughes scold.
"And you're pale." Mustang add.
"Are you running a fever?" Hughes asked laying a hand on the boy and Ed made a face.
"I don't think so. I really feel ok. Do I really have bags? I didn't notice them." Ed mumbled becoming slightly concerned.
"Yeah it feels like a low grade fever. We better take you down to medical." Hughes nod and Mustang was on his feet instantly.
"Down to medical." Ed scoffed makinga face before coming quickly when Hughes slapped his back and grabbed his arm. "I think you old men are over reacting." Ed scold. "I am at my peak!" Ed insist.
"You can never be too careful." Mustang spoke.
"He's right Ed." Hughes agreed. "I heard there's something going around. It's bad."
"Bad?" Ed repeat looking worse.
"Bad." Hughes confirmed before smiling. "It'll only take a second." They pulled the boy down two floors spitting phrases to keep him mentally consumed before pushing him into an exam room. "This one looks a little feverish." Hughes explained to the young doctor who took one look at Edward and seemed confused with the healthy boy. "Check his blood pressure, temperature and, I don't know his heart rate, and prostate." Hughes spoke quickly.
"My What!?" Ed yelled turning to the man before the two officers backed out and closed the door. "MAJOR!" Ed yelled from inside.
"You really think this will work?" Mustang asked giving Hughes a skeptical frown.
"A major just ordered all this for a twelve year old. Who's the doctor going to listen to." Hughes whispered.
"Well move, I am going in." Mustang said pushing against Hughes to enter the room.
"Are you nuts you'll embarrass the crap out of him Mustang. You think little Ed has even had that looked at before? I am surprised he knew what it was." Hughes whispered, before breaking a short laugh.
"I want to see results." Mustang snapped.
"Well let's just wait." Hughes argued but Mustang made a face and start down the hall. "Where are you going?" Hughes called before following. Mustang stepped into the connecting office, turned off the lights and opened the blinds on the adjoining door's window. "This is terrible." Hughes scoffed looking into the next room. There was their novas soon-to-be alchemist sitting in a chair without his coat having his blood pressure taken with the biggest slump of an expression they'd ever seen.
"See the hickies." Mustang point and Hughes leaned forward before nodding. "Where's he getting them?" Mustang asked turning to the man. "There are more of them now." Mustang frowned looking at Edward's neck and shoulder. Ed had bright little red marks and was talking irritated to the doctor but they couldn't make out his words. They waited through that and a thermometer and then the boy was standing alongside the exam table looking mad as hell as he opened his pants. Then came the embarrassment as the doctor moved behind him and Ed laid his head on the table hanging on tightly. "OW!" Ed yelled loud enough they heard him and Ed's head snapped up mad. "What are you doing!? Do you even know how to do your freaking job!?" Ed yelled and Mustang cracked a laugh while Hughes shook his head.
"He seems healthy Mustang." Hughes sighed watching Ed bite his hand in between yelling at the doctor. "This looks like a healthy reaction."
"I must be overreacting." Mustang sighed. "The doctor would notice if something were wrong."
"Maybe they're bug bits, or an allergic reaction, or a skin irritation." Hughes suggest closing the blinds and shrugging. They moved back to the hall calmly and after ten minutes the doctor came out to tell them Ed was in perfect health next to a seething, blushing blonde.
"That's a load off." Hughes exaggerate wiping his brow. "You should have seen him when he first stepped in here. Pale as a ghost." Hughes exclaimed.
"Get your eyes checked Major!" Ed snapped stomping from the doctor. "And colonel, you just need your head checked." Ed scowled. "I came all this way to ask for something and I don't expect to have to jump through hoops like a dog." Ed growled stomping when they tried to get away while the boy was talking. "I want clearance into the library so I can research the chimera Tucker made two years ago!" Ed demand loudly before clearing his throat. "To help with my studies." They made faces.
"That's not my jurisdiction." Hughes shrugged.
"Come on colonel. Throw me a bone." Ed offered a wide convincing smile, but Mustang made a face.
"Unfortunately Ed, the Brigadier Gran covers that. It's classified information and even if I could give you access I wouldn't permit it." Mustang said firmly and Ed's face buckled.
"But why?" Ed demand.
"Because you're not a state alchemist." Mustang scoffed. "You're just a want-to-be. Get approved and hired and then we'll talk." Mustang snort turning from the boy and Hughes gave Ed's blank expression a shrug.
"He's right Ed. Good luck on your test." Hughes waved and they left the boy in the hallway and head back to the office. "Wow, that was the most inappropriate thing we've done to anyone in a long time. Never mind a little kid." Hughes sighed alongside Mustang who seemed oddly casual about what they had done.
"He's not hurt." Mustang grunt opening his office door. "A little childhood trauma builds character Hughes; didn't anyone ever tell you that?"
After that all suspicious behavior of Edward Elric was disregarded. All tardy arrivals, shifting about in chairs, and strange markings. He was a twelve year old and played between studies and all of these weird things were attributed to this playing. For three months the boys continued studying and things went on like normal until one day Mustang got a phone call.
"Colonel Mustang." He announced bringing the phone to his ear.
"Colonel it's me." Edward spoke and he sighed. "I-I didn't know who else to call." Ed spoke quietly.
"It's fine Elric. What do you need." He grumbled waiting as the boy fell silent. "Elric."
"I am at Mr. Tuckers." Ed informed. "And-well I just woke up and I am bleeding." Ed admit quietly and he became more alarmed.
"You're bleeding? How badly?" He demand quickly before changing his mind. "Edward listed to me. I want you to hang up and call an ambulance. Now." He ordered but the boy was quiet and all he heard was some breath. "Edward? Did you hear me. Call an ambulance, I'll come right over."
"I-I don't want to." Ed spoke and he got to his feet. "I-I don't know where Mr. Tucker is." Ed admit quietly. "Something happened to me I think." Ed confessed quickly and he heard the voice starting to panic.
"Are you bleeding badly?" He asked as kindly and reassuring as he could while squeezing the phone.
"No." Ed whispered.
"Then sit tight. I'll be right there." He reassured. "I want you to stay right where you are. Don't move, and don't get Mr. Tucker. I want you to stay away from him. Do you understand that?" He ordered and Ed made a small noise. "Where is your brother Edward?" He asked and that's when he realized the boy was crying.
"I dooon't knoooow." Ed sobbed.
Mustang went as fast as possible. As inconspicuously as possible right to Mr. Tuckers and let himself in. He didn't call for the boy but instead investigated quietly and found the downstairs empty. Coming up the stairs quietly there were many halls and many doors. "Edward!?" He called loudly keeping his gloved hand ready as he slowly began moving down the rooms and moving down the doors. Several of them were locked, and knocking did no good. He would leave these for last and double back if he didn't find the boy, so hurried on. With a glance at his watch he realized it had been over a half an hour since the boy called. "Ed?" He called knocking on the next locked door and inside this one he heard movement. "This is colonel Mustang." He spoke firmly when announcing himself, and there was a small shuffle and he heard the door unlock.
"Colonel." Ed opened the door wrapped in a sheet and he came in quickly and locked it behind him.
"What happened?" He demand quickly.
"I.." Ed shook his head looking confused, but he could tell from the boy's face he'd been crying. "I don't know. I just suddenly woke up like this." Ed confessed and he glanced about the room. Everything seemed ok.
"What were you doing before?" He asked moving to check the boy's closet and attached bathroom.
"I-I thought I was in the library studying." Ed admit slowly, looking confused and when all was safe he turned to the boy and knelt before him. "Then I woke up like this." He nod looking at the sheet Ed was gripping.
"You're naked?" He asked and Ed nod. "Do you have any bruises on you?" He asked but Ed shook his head slowly. "Does anything hurt?" He asked and the boy was silent. This silence made him close his eyes and bring a hand to his temple. The stress. "Right now Edward, you and I are going to have a conversation." He began quietly lowering his hand. "It will stay between us, and no one ever has to know about it." Ed was silent. "Do you think Mr. Tucker may have done this to you?" He asked and Ed shift a bit.
"I don't know. No one else lives here but us, but no one else is here." Ed explained and he saw the boy's rational conflicting with the facts forming an inability to process what may have happened.
"Ok, did you wake up on the bed?" He point to it. "Laying on it?" He asked and Ed nod as he walked over and stood alongside the mattress. "On your back or stomach?" Mustang asked and Ed jointed him.
"Stomach. My head was here." Ed informed pointing to the top near the pillow and Mustang nod ghosting his hand over the bed before finding moisture in the middle. Quickly he bent down and inhaled the smell before backing up with closed eyes. "You need to see a doctor." Mustang said quietly and Ed perked up.
"Why? What did you smell?" Ed asked looking to the bed but it looked clean, the moister was slightly like a heavy sweat.
"You understand male anatomy Edward." Mustang said turning to the boy. "There is seamen on this bed." He informed and Ed blushed tugging his sheet tighter. "I don't think it's yours." He elaborate noting Ed's confusion.
"It's-it's got to be mine." Ed stammered. "I was sleeping there." The boy swallowed looking as though he wanted to hide.
"Not unless there was someone with you." Mustang supplied and Ed looked up. "There's too much there for you anyway." Mustang informed and Ed's eyes widened in shock. "It's been a long time hunch of mine that Mr. Tucker may have been enjoying your company for the wrong purposes." Mustang confessed moving to the boy's dresser and pulling out some clothing. "Regardless, after today you'll be moved. I won't have you and your brother here anymore. It will try my conscious." He admit turning to the short boy standing wrapped in a sheet looking scared. "Edward." He spoke quietly stopping his movement. "You said you were bleeding on the phone." Ed backed up a step as though sorry he confessed this.
"It stopped. It must have been a small cut."
"Show it to me." He ordered shutting the boy's drawer and coming over with clothing. "I need to know you're alright." He knelt down again but Ed stayed as he was. "Edward."
"I can't." Ed croaked looking distressed. This was upsetting the boy fast.
"Why?" He demand. "I order you to show it to me." He said putting force in his words, but Ed's face crumbled with this and the boy dropped his head into his hands. "It's alright." He hushed running a hand onto the boy's shoulder and rubbing gently. This adjust the sheet and revealed a hickey bigger than one he'd ever seen. "Bastard." He hissed and Ed looked up before startling when he grabbed the boy and pulled him into his lap like a bride.
"What are you doing!" Ed yelled kicking. "Let me go Colonel!" Ed yelled flinching as he began opening the sheet. "StoP IT!" Ed screamed huddling together as he opened it on the boy's chest and arms and examined them before covering him back up.
"You'll show me the cut now, or I'll look until I find it." He demand. "I won't-" and then he silenced noting a drop of blood on Edward's barefoot above his ankle. He pushed the sheet up the boy's flesh leg gently and found more behind the knee. Ed was trembling in his arms staring up at him. "Edward I am going to put my hands inside the sheet." Mustang informed turning to the boy's wide eyes. "Stay still so I don't touch anything we both don't want me touching solider." He ordered gently slipping his hand in and feeling the blood on the back of the boy's knee. He let his fingers get used to the rough dried feeling before moving higher. Mustang watched the bump that was his hand travel up slowly with Ed beginning to make small noises dreadfully uncomfortable before he hit something sticky on the sheet and it rubbed into the back of his hand. Mustang pulled his hand back and looked at the smear before sniffing it. "To numb and lubricate" He whispered smelling the medicated ointment before looking down at Edward who seemed fine outside of his fright. "You were bleeding out your ass weren't you." He accused and Ed inhaled with his words before turning his face into his chest quietly. "But it doesn't hurt." He soothed hugging the boy tighter as he tensed up. "And it's stopped?" He asked and Ed nod quickly. "Alright." He said sitting quietly with the boy for a moment. "Edward, can you get dressed." Mustang asked and Ed nod pushing to sit up sniffling. "Get dressed and then get your things. You and I will leave this place." He offered the boy a kind smile and Ed seemed to find some sort of relief and climbed off him. "Try and be quick, and don't worry." He reassured watching the boy get to his feet hugging the sheet tightly to him. Ed turned to him when he stopped there, and the boy's face looked dreadful. Scared and confused, unable to develop a clear course of action. He was the boy's only source of help. He realized this with Edward staring at him, why he was called. "I am discrete." He finished. "And I will help you."
After Edward dressed the boy followed him in silence out to his car and together they left for headquarters. "The doctor on shift is an acquaintance of mine." He explained breaking the silence and Ed turned to him. "I'll have his confidence so until we get to the bottom of this, we'll keep it quiet."
"Thanks." Ed whispered breathing a sigh of relief. "I am really embarrassed." Ed admit and he turned to the boy. Edward appreciate his silence out of embarrassment? The boy didn't want anyone to know he had bled and from where? He couldn't believe the concept of what may have happened, and led the boy to bleed hadn't entered Edward's mind. "Mr. Tuckers been kind to my brother and myself." Ed began watching the scenery. "I don't want to cause any trouble for him." Ed said turning to him and his eyes were wide with shock. Upon the boy's glance he tore them back to the road in hopes to compose himself. "I realize Mr. Tuckers odd but..." Ed trailed turning to his lap and fiddling with his fingers. "Is the doctor necessary? I feel fine." Ed breached a new subject and he swallowed the fat lump in his throat.
"Yes." He croaked before clearing it. "Yes necessary. Definitely necessary." He managed pulling in and Ed fell silent then and followed him obediently through the halls. He moved quickly, taking a more roundabout route to avoid confronting anyone who might have questions. His subordinates were all up three floors and probably continuing work without him. Hopefully continuing work without him. There were a few said names that roused his suspicion they would in fact not be working but he had other matters to attend to. Once in med wing he chose the back exam room and opened the door. "Wait here until I return." He explained holding the door for Ed who listened before entering with the briefest of nods. "Keep your clothes on." He add.
"I won't have taken them off." Ed snapped back giving him a look and he smiled at the return of the boy's mouth before shutting the door.
Dr. Carmichael was a long time friend, and had been his own personal doctor when he began as a soldier, then alchemist, and now colonel. The man appreciated his loyalty as much as he appreciated the man's discretion. Dr. Carmichael was good at medicine, and loyal to the military, however his rank did not suggest he take patient of a colonel. His visits to the man had now become an employment reward, and shining start on Dr. Carmichael's resume.
"Has he been in your care long." Dr. Carmichael questioned following him to the exam room. He had but to linger by the man's lab and once spotted Dr. Carmichael made himself of service.
"I just picked him up. He was of course indecent and is now dressed." He informed stopping alongside the door and the man nod. "He doesn't seem to know what's happened to him." He explained.
"Well I am sure he's figured it out. If what you say is true." Dr. Carmichael answered. "Seamen on the bed, medicated cream to eliminate the pain. I'd like to think military soldiers are capable of some deductive reasoning colonel." Dr. Carmichael said opening the door before stopping dead.
"I should in fact mention his age." He supplied then breaking the man from his long shocked stare when the white room emerged with nothing but some medical counters, exam table, and one boy dressed almost entirely in black.
"I-I do believe I asked you before..." Dr. Carmichael began tearing his eyes from Ed and turning to him. "If there were relevant facts I should know." The man finished giving him an eye flare and he smiled.
"I was listing them in hierarchy by injury." He supplied shutting the door behind himself and Ed's eyes were examining the doctor, but continually darting to him for answers. "Edward this is Dr. Carmichael, he's been with the military since before you were born. He's also my physician." He informed and Ed nod but seemed less impressed with this fact than he should be.He attributed this to the boy's naive nature and continued. "This means he is a man I can trust." He explained and Ed's eyes lit up with this.
"Ok." Ed nod quickly watching the man head to the counter and begin retrieving supplies. "What about my brother?" Ed asked coming to him quickly.
"What about him?"
"Can I see him? I won't have to be hospitalized will I?" Ed asked quickly sounding alarmed.
"Of course not." He snapped and Ed startled with the tone. "Of course you will not be instated at any hospital Edward. I want this off your medical file." He rephrased and Ed relaxed a bit. "As for your brother, I don't know of his whereabouts." Ed's mouth opened quickly. "But you'll be allowed to see him, as soon as we straighten this out." He finished and Ed's mouth closed. "Go and tell him what you've told me." He ordered then, nodding to Dr. Carmichael who had pulled a veiled stand in front of the exam table suggesting he stay in the room.
"Ok." Ed nod running a hand through his hair and heading to the doctor who stopped working with a smile for the boy. "My name is Edward Elric." Ed began and he stepped back and took a seat in the one provided leather chair. This boy, his newest to-be state alchemist subordinate had potential he could not fathom. "I am currently residing with Shou Tucker the Sewing Life Alchemist. I called the colonel because I woke up in my room and I couldn't remember how I got there." Ed explained and Dr. Carmichael indicated the table while adjusting on rubber gloves.
"Edward that sounds serious." Dr. Carmichael began gently testing the boy's neck and response to his eyes. "Do you remember smelling anything odd before? Or eating anything usual?"
"I had peanut butter and jelly for lunch." Ed divulged and from behind the curtain atop the exam table all he could see was the boy's knees and legs. One swinging ever so gently. "And I don't remember anything odd at all. I was studying, in the..library. By myself." Ed continued and there was a pause of shuffling where the boy removed his jacket and shirt.
"Have you been studying hard?" Dr. Carmichael asked before smiling so he assumed Ed was nodding. "That's a good boy." The man compliment.
"Please don't patronize me due to my size." Ed respond and the man broke a laugh with that. "Just be straight with me." Ed request and Dr. Carmichael gave this a minute and laid his hands down on the table. While maintaining the kind look in his eye Dr. Carmichael stood smiling softly at the attentive boy before speaking.
"I apologize if you think I've impugned your intelligence." Dr. Carmichael began and he smiled. This was why he respect the man. Wisdom. Humbled wisdom. "I have been instructed to examine you for signs and source of injury." The doctor explained and Ed was silently listening. "Your cooperation is appreciated, and in return...your medical findings will be disclosed to you." Dr. Carmichael informed and he brought his lips to a pinch. First with the fact Ed most likely did not know as an owned state alchemist he could be held without medical report on himself, and second because he was not sure he would be disclosing all of the findings to the boy, despite the fact Edward was not technically certified yet.
"Thank you." Ed replied, and the boy sounded both obedient and grateful.
"You are welcome Edward." Dr. Carmichael smiled. "Now let me have you undress, and lay back. I will do my best to make you comfortable, but this can be an awkward procedure have you not had it before."
"I haven't." Ed offered quickly.
"I know son." The man chuckled before turning to him. Dr. Carmichael gave his eyebrows a hike and heavy sigh as he listened to Ed's boots unlatch and then drop to the floor with heavy thuds. "The colonel is remaining present. Would you like him closer for support?" Dr, Carmichael asked and Mustang gave his head a discrete shake which went unnoticed.
"I don't want him to see me naked." Ed whispered quickly and Mustang slid his fingers over his mouth to restrain his laugh.
"Well than I assure you he can't see though this curtain." Dr. Carmichael chuckled keeping his right hand up and sterile in a new glove, and using his left to help Ed move about. A soft blanket was retrieved and it covered the boy's legs before the remainder of Ed's clothes were dropped off the side of the table by Ed himself.
"Did he tell you what else I said?" Ed asked then, and the boy's voice still sounded confident and unfazed by everything.
"He did." Dr. Carmichael add walking behind the curtain as well and he was left with only the man's feet at the bottom and the small bump in the blanket which was Ed's knees. "Did you have anything else you want to tell me? Anything you did not tell him?" Dr. Carmichael asked softly and then there was silence.
"I think...there was someone there with me...but..." Ed trailed and he sat up quickly with this news. "I saw something I don't remember well." Ed divulged quietly and he brought his hands to either side of the chair and held tight. "A twinkle." Ed muttered. "Like light on glass. A circle, small and..." Ed stopped with a sudden gasp, and Dr. Carmichael began some warm laughter.
"Relax son." The man reassured. "That's not for you." Dr. Carmicheal laughed. "Edward roll onto your side for me, face that way now." The man direct and he sat back angry. He felt close there. Felt Edward coming to his memories, before stupid medical nonsense got in the way. "Are you nervous?" Dr. Carmichael asked gently. "There's no reason to be. I am going to have you hold my hand." The man hushed and he closed his eyes listening to this. Remembering his own life, and the times he was offered that hand. "You hold it tight, and every time you feel nervous you squeeze."
"You're treating me like a child." Ed squeaked suddenly before whining. Whining like the child he was denying he was.
"That doesn't hurt now." Dr. Carmichael hushed.
"It feels uncomfortable." Ed continued before releasing a harder groan. "That feels uncomfortable." Ed repeat and he heard some movement.
"Does it hurt bad enough you can't stay still?" Dr. Carmichael asked with a hint of scolding in his voice.
"No." Ed mumbled and then there was a minute of silence. He sat in suspense, waiting. Hoping Ed might start talking, might remember more of what he'd seen. Confirm his suspicion even more so.
Say it.
Say it was Tucker so he could use the anger he felt and not hold back. Just tell him what he'd been thinking, what he'd been worrying about was true, and he did nothing.
Say it.
Say he failed as a colonel.
"Ow-Ah!" Ed cried out suddenly.
"Easy now!" Dr. Carmichael reassured when he heard a fast move. "Easy, Edward this small pressure your feeling. That is normal." Dr. Carmichael reassured.
"Normal." Ed whined.
"This is your prostate, and alongside it a bit lower, a small tear." Dr. Carmichael report and he closed his eyes and held back the hate. No one had listed a name for him. He couldn't take direct action with a suspicion. With the news however Ed made a few distressed sounds and the boy's breathing became audible. "Now now." Dr. Carmichael soothed. "That's not so bad. No, not at all. A small, bothersome injury and nothing more." Dr. Carmichael reassured and Edward's breathing slowed. "Do you know what medicine I'll give you for that?" The man asked kindly before moving and taking his first step from the side of the table.
"Please say something that goes in my mouth." Ed croaked and the man laughed.
"I'll give you a powder Edward. And I want you to go and have yourself a nice hot bath. Warm, and keep your legs up, and then lean close to them. How does that sound?" Dr. Carmichael asked and Ed grunt.
"Better than this." Ed respond and Dr. Carmichael emerged from the curtain pulling his gloves off before offering him a nod toward the door.
"Edward we'll be right back. Please stay on the table." Dr. Carmichael asked before stepping into the hall with him and balling up the gloves he held. "Well." Dr. Carmichael sigh standing with him for a moment in silence. "Your suspicions were correct." The man report sadly and he said nothing. "He's been raped. His skin is extremely sore, and he has a small tear. As the medication he's been lubricated with wears off he'll feel more of the effects." The man explained and he closed his eyes and stood quietly. "However, he shows none of the psychological effects." The man continued and he opened his eyes.
"What is your meaning?"
"He doesn't know." Dr. Carmichael explained. "He's not embarrassed, he does not feel shameful." The man elaborate. "I held conversation with him through his exam." Dr. Carmichael offered to support his statements before chuckling. "You should remember how hard it was to come into this military and have an old man like me tell you where your prostate was."
"Mind your tongue to a superior." He scold a bit bothered.
"The point is Mustang." Dr. Carmichael waved this aside gently. "It's hard to hold conversation period. Next to impossible after rape. He was either slipped something slow acting early, or given something quick. There are dozens of household drugs that could have knocked a body of that size unconscious long enough. I shouldn't have to tell you that." Dr. Carmichael frowned.
"That wasn't what I wanted to know." He sighed, tipping his head back for a moment of thought. "I wanted confirmation off his record. If he doesn't know it happened, that's even more a reason to keep it a secret." He said speaking his thoughts aloud. "Off his record, from his knowledge." He sighed.
"Then the attacker?" Dr. Carmichael asked quietly. This subject was sensitive and outside of medical jurisdiction.
"I will handle." He left it at that and Dr. Carmichael nod. "He is not to be told what caused this. Make something up." He direct and the man nod. "When he's decent send him to my office." He direct making move to leave before hesitating. "Thank you." He said offering his gratitude. "For this, and...for the way in which you handled him."
"He's just a boy." Dr. Carmichael scold. "You think he's not scared because you can't see it on his face Mustang?" The man asked and he quieted. "Remember what it was like. Remember who you are now. Are you not still scared?" The man asked laying a hand on his shoulder and he was silent. "You will be a good Fuher." Dr. Carmichael spoke quietly before opening the exam room door and stepping back in. "Well Edward, good news!" The man announced happily, and he left. Quickly.
He retreat to his office to find and secure a dorm room for both brothers. Locate the younger brother, and wait for Edward to return. His first priority was finding them a new room and board since the old had proved unsuitable.
He entered his office and was half way to his desk when he stopped dead with the sense of another presence. Before his desk, waiting in one of his chairs Shou Tucker turned and offered him a smile. "Good afternoon Colonel Mustang." The man greet and he stiffened before continuing his walk.
"I can't imagine how you have the gall to show your face to me now." He spit bitterly skirting his desk to his chair.
"Oh?" Tucker asked innocently. "That's a rather odd thing to say. I've simply come by to ask about Edward." The man began and he sat down roughly and offered a curt smile.
"Funny he's on your mind."
"I left him at home studying and he's not there now."
"And Alphonse?"
"Home waiting. He was running some errands for me." Mr. Tucker replied calmly before waiting for his answers.
"Edward is here in the building." He finally answered. "Although he's no longer your concern." He announced and Tucker didn't seem very surprised. Instead the man just stood and began to leave. "I want you to stay away from him." He ordered darkly and the man stopped. "Touch him again. And you won't have my silence." He threaten quietly and the man moved a bit before a small chuckle was heard.
"You could at least live through me Mustang."
"Come again?" He snapped.
"I said imagine what it would feel like to hold him close. You know you want to. You think I don't know?" Tucker whispered and he shivered. Just the thought of the boy he'd just left in that predicament… a child, the thought was disgusting. It made him sick, tightened his stomach until it clenched his throat.
"I'd be afraid for your daughter if you liked women." He spat.
"You're a coward."
"And you're a monster." He hissed. "Get out." He growled and Tucker began again. "I am sending a car for Alphonse. Breath a word to disrupt them and you'll pay. Silently." He spoke and Tucker said nothing and left.
While phoning Havoc to have the younger brother, and the Elric belongings collected Ed showed up. With a bit of a limp in his step and facial expressions like he were eating sour candy the boy came and stood before his desk waiting for him to finish. "What did he say?" He asked and Ed shift in some discomfort.
"I have a rectal tear." Ed croaked blushing and he kept his face straight.
"Really." He comment and Ed gave a fast nod. "And how did you get that?' He asked and Ed's face was glowing. Still, it seemed the boy believed the lie. "Edward?"
"A rough bowel movement." Ed squeaked closing his eyes for his words as though he just couldn't stomach having to report them. "I am sorry to cause all this alarm for no reason." Ed sputtered obviously feeling the fool. He was silent. Dr. Carmichael was a smart man. Ed had eaten this up.
"Bleeding for any reason is important. Your health is a relief to me." He offered smoothly.
"Well thanks." Ed muttered glancing away wanting to leave. "I guess I'll go than." Ed muttered turning slightly.
"On the contrary, you mine as well stay." He spoke indicating a seat and Ed glanced at it before easing himself down. "I've sent for your younger brother."
"Alphonse!?" Ed exclaimed instantly excited.
"I am aware of his name Ed." He scold the outburst. "He's on his way here. You two have completed your training with Mr. Tucker." He explained and Ed's face buckled.
"Com-completed? I don't understand."
"You're done there."
"But! We're not near completed!" Ed argued instantly. "There's still tons I have to learn from him. And my thesis paper isn't done! He was helping!" Ed argued getting up quickly. "I apologize for disrupting your schedule colonel please don't punish us this way!"
"No one's being punished." He frowned.
"At least let Alphonse stay then." Ed accused and for a brief second he considered it. Considering the boy was a suit of armor he'd be in no danger, but his mind immediately dismissed it in disgust.
"No."
"Colonel!" Ed yelled.
"Sit down now, or you'll be back at the doctor with more than just a tear." He growled and Ed plopped back down pouting. "As a matter of fact your dismissal comes from Mr. Tucker himself." He lied and Ed's eyes widened. "He says he feels unable to continue to care for you, and would like you to independently complete what you've taken from him."
"He dismissed us as students?" Ed managed looking horrified.
"With a good report." He answered. "It's not uncommon to do this in the military Ed." He informed quickly to bring the boy back from his shock.
"It's not?"
"No. Mr. Tucker has to continue his reputation and research as a state alchemist himself. Pupils are usually taken for either years on end, or select months like you boys have done. I admit you're ending ahead of schedule but only so by a matter of weeks. Mr. Tucker has his state evaluation to think of after all." He informed and Ed relaxed a bit and sat back. "As soon as Alphonse arrives I'll show you to the dorm you two can use." He supplied and Ed gave a nod. "Would you prefer one or two bedrooms?" He asked.
"One." Ed deadpan before slumping down in his chair a bit. "I am eager to see him. How long till he arrives?" Ed asked and he gave this question a dismissive wave while retrieving the report of open dorms. Preferably something close to headquarters due to the fact Ed had no car, and also he felt having Ed close would be good. "I have a second floor dorm, one bedroom, full bath, no dining room." He said dragging his finger down the list. "Though I suppose you do only need one bedroom." He sighed.
"We'll need two when Alphonse gets his body back." Ed informed.
"We'll cross that bridge when we come to it." He replied laying down the paper and looking at the boy. "Did the doctor give you any medicine?" He asked and Ed's blush returned quickly.
"S-sorta." Ed replied and he was quiet waiting to be informed. "What?" Ed asked after a moment and he sighed.
"Edward my silence usually means you should either continue to talk, forward what information you have, or feel appropriately beneath me." He informed sitting up a bit straighter. "What medication did he give you?" He asked and Ed shift making an exhausted expression.
"Sir, can I thank you for coming to my aid." Ed began quickly. "But this is my personal-"
"I asked you a question." He interrupt and Ed cringed face beat read.
"Ointment and a bath solution."
"Ointment." He repeat and Ed nod. "Did you apply any?" He asked.
"It goes on after the bath sir." Ed replied looking beaten by him.
"Let's go." He said getting to his feet and passing the boy. "We'll meet Alphonse there." He informed opening his office door and Ed slid to his feet and came quickly trying to hide his limp. "I've instruct Havoc to pick up your brother and your belongings." He explained and Ed seemed surprised but didn't argue.
"This will be your dorm." He explained unlocking the door and opening it. "Treat it well." He advised watching Ed wonder in. He had chosen the one bedroom and one bath, so the first and only large room consist of a short kitchen, and basic furnished living room.
"This is for us?" Ed asked wondering in slowly as though he were intruding in someone else's space. "Just ours?"
"Yes. It's your dorm." He informed and Ed brightened looking relieved to have a space of his own. "You're close to headquarters so you can walk to work." He informed. "And of course while you're getting situated you can call me if you need anything." He said shutting the door as Ed disappeared for a moment into the bedroom, and then bathroom investigating. "Also..." He began before waiting for the boy to come back to him. Edward's exploring was childlike and he suppressed his smile as the boy ran his hand along the kitchen counter before opening the fridge and peaking in.
"This place is pretty big." Ed was happy.
"You are pretty small." He retort and Ed's head snapped up fast looking angry. "I want to take a moment and talk to you about guests for your dorm." He began and Ed's frown lightened but the boy was still irritated. "No one is allowed into this apartment unless cleared through me. It is for you and your brother only." He ordered and Ed made a face.
"Is that standard policy?"
"No." He admit and Ed's irritation rose.
"Then why do I have to subject my personal life to your approval?" Ed demand.
"Because I said so." He snapped and Ed quieted. "Also, you are here by ordered to stay away from the Sewing life Alchemist. If I hear of you meeting with him, or his presence within this apartment you will know why they call me the flame alchemist."
"You're threatening me colonel?!" Ed shot sounding both shocked and angry.
"No, it is an order." He clarified. "These are your orders Edward, and you are my subordinate." He stated simply before giving a sigh. The hard part was over, and he felt a tremendous relief Edward would be safe in his apartment with his brother instead of anywhere near Mr. Tucker. "Now go and take your bath. I'll wait for your brother."
"I haven't any clothes to change into." Ed protest. "I'll wait for Alphonse too."
"That's an order." He retort and the boy pitched a small fit where he stood before giving a stomp and turning on his heels storming to the bathroom. "Relax; I worry about your health." He called when he heard Ed grumbling to himself about orders, and a mother. "You should consider yourself lucky I've taken the time to address your own personal affairs with so much of my time."
"Yeah I am counting my lucky stars." Ed grumbled before slamming the door. He waited until Alphonse arrived with Havoc and the armored boy was even more excited with the concept they had their own apartment. While holding Edward's clothes it moved quickly all about, touching and opening things the way the elder had. Bringing gratitude and asking repeatedly if this was theirs, Alphonse finally arrived at the bathroom door and fed the clothes in to a thin wet hand which would only open the door a crack.
"Alphonse, I've already informed your brother you're not allowed to have visitors here unless it's cleared through me." He informed firmly and the armor seemed shocked and nod slowly, but he could hear the confusion. Hell, it was odd to think he could see it on the things face. "I know this may seem confusing." He tried to bridge. "But a phone call is not hard." He offered hoping to appeal to the armors common sense. "I'll put my number here in case you ever need it." He said scribbling his office number on a scrap and tucking it into the top of the phone.
"Yes-yes sir. Thank you sir." Alphonse replied obediently and he smiled.
"Tell your bother to have a nice night." He said offering a short wave and heading to the door with Havoc. Edward emerged from the bathroom just in time for his departure, but he pretend he did not hear the boy's sarcastic, tell yourself to have a nice night! which snapped back at him. With the dorm situation all taken care of, and he felt confident things were indeed ending well. Hopefully they would stay that way.
...Ok, so that was chapter two.
The nervousness is dying but…I still ran and hid after posting this!!
--crawls back out from under blankets and sits at keyboard--
So what did you think of Hughes and Mustang!? This chapter is the beginning of the step back that happens to show you life outside of the Tucker estate. That said I am not giving anymore of the story away…you'll just have to keep reading to see what happens. Personally I had a lot of run writing Ed and Mustang in this one, their relationship is a bit different than it was in my last fic and change is always a fun challenge.
Let me know what you think!! Please-please-please! Writing these types of stories is hard!
Chapter 3: Clear My Conscious to be uploaded Friday 04/25/08