VIII.- Of Regression Therapy
Edward walked towards the consult office of Dr. Mauro.
He didn't know exactly what had driven him there; probably it was the need to help his brother in his little 'situation'. It had been a week since Alphonse started regressing, and he knew he had to do something about it soon. Because he really wasn't sure how to react on that situation. After all, he spent years looking for the Philosopher's Stone, he never had problems with his brother psychological issues, being him a walking armor.
He entered the consult office, and found Dr. Mauro doing some paperwork.
"Hi, Doctor" said Edward with a smile as he saw the familiar face of the doctor that reminded him of home. "It's me, Edward, I don't know if you remember me."
The Doctor smiled and stood up, extending his hand towards the blonde man. "Of course, Edward! Nice for you to visit, is there anything I can do to help you?
"Actually, there is," said Edward, shaking the older man's hand. "You see…it's about my brother."
Dr. Mauro nodded. "Yes?"
"You see, he's been…acting really infantile lately. And when I say infantile I mean infantile. Like a toddler. He sucks his thumb and pacifier, he bought a Baby Blanket for himself, and he has been wetting the bed for three days straight. Plus some other moments where he really seems to enjoy to be babied. I really don't know how to proceed with that," explained Edward, reciting everything he could remember about Alphonse's behavior.
Dr. Mauro stopped to think for a minute, and then he spoke. "Well, it seems like a typical case of regression. The last time we saw each other you mentioned having a hard time in the past; did it affect your brother as well?"
"More than me," replied Edward, looking down. "Our father left when he was just a toddler, our mother died not long after…then we…did something I'm not proud of. I can't explain, you wouldn't believe it. The point is…for four years, he was…crippled. And now he's here…far from home and everybody he had ever known"
The doctor nodded again, understanding Edward's hesitance to speak. "Yup, typical case of regression. I believe your brother is returning to his toddler years because that's the only time he was truly, truly happy."
"I understand," said Edward, folding his arms thoughtful. "What should I do?"
"Let him be the toddler he wants to be," said Dr. Mauro with a conclusive smile. "If you want, and can, immerse yourself on his age play…be the father he never had."
Edward nodded, convinced it was for the best.
Alphonse was wrapping up his homework, finishing with a dot his essay on the Great War. He had to research a lot for that subject, because he didn't live on that period, he was back in Amestris. He sighed, wishing he could be back home with Winry and Granny. He longed to feel their loving touch again.
"Oh, Al!" exclaimed a singsong voice from downstairs.
Alphonse knew it was his older brother, so he left his notebook behind, closing it and walked downstairs. He couldn't help but feel curious, Edward just used that kind of singsong voice when there was something interesting he was going to propose him.
He reached the first floor and stared at his brother. "Yes, Brother?"
Edward signaled him the chair that was in front of him. "Take a seat, please."
Alphonse raised an eyebrow, confused, but complied. He sat on the chair and stared at his older brother. "What's up?"
"Well, Al…you see. I've been thinking about your regressive issue…" said Edward, noticing his brother starting to blush.
"Brother, I…" began Alphonse, but Edward lifted his hand to hush him.
"Don't interrupt me, Al," said Edward with a serious tone. "I've consulted professionals and we've agreed that what you need is to be a baby again. That's why I have decided to treat you like such. From now on, you'll get your babyhood back whenever you're with me. It's a way to give you back what you have lost and never enjoyed…"
Alphonse was dumbstruck. "Are…are you being serious?"
"As dead serious as I can be," said Edward with a smirk. "I want to know if you're willing. It will help you, I believe. And I'll be glad to have my baby brother back."
Alphonse felt tears start to well up in his eyes, he hugged his brother tight. "I accept."
"Good," said Edward, hugging him back and patting his head. "I love you, Al."
Alphonse smiled. "I love you too, you don't know how much."
Then, Alphonse realized Edward was carrying a bag. He looked through the bag and saw a pack of something. He read the title that was printed on it and gasped in surprise, yet with excitement. "Are those?"
"Yup, diapers!" exclaimed Edward.
So, we now actually have a plot! Keep ideas rolling!
