Title: 004 Grave
Author: Tressa
Rating: K+
Summary: #004 in the 100 Royai Themes. Takes place after the series, before the movie. As for the dates, well, I guesstimated.
Edward Elric
Alchemist of the People
Loyal Friend
Loving Brother
1899-1915 CY
"It's like a disturbing facade," he said softly, tracing the engraved letters with his eye. "Something for the military to flaunt." He paused. "They didn't even wait."
"You wanted to come, sir." she said. "You knew it was here."
"Did they come? His brother and the girl?"
A slight nod. "Yes, though you can imagine their strong objections."
"They should." He shook his head. "It's wrong, Riza. He's not dead." Gripping the cane in his hand, he tapped it apprehensively against the cold headstone. "I know him," he said. "He wouldn't just up and leave his brother behind."
She nodded in agreement. "We'll see him again," she assured him, laying a hand on his arm.
To her surprise, he reached out with a free arm, wrapping it around her, pulling her close. Her cheeks warmed before she took a few seconds to analyze the situation. It wasn't a hug to comfort; it was a grasp to hold onto what he still had. Despite what they accomplished, they had still lost so much.
"Hughes." The name slipped from his lips unexpectedly. "The Rockbells. The Ishbalans." A breath. "Fullmetal." His grip on her tightened. "Don't leave me Hawkeye."
Reaching up with a free hand, she wrapped hers around his. "I won't leave you, sir. That I promise."
A.N.- Of course, we all know what happened. He left her instead.