Of Lust and Wrenches Chapter 10: So It Begins, a fullmetal alchemist fanfic

Of Lust and Wrenches

Ember Sunblaze: I'm back! Sooo sorry for the long wait! This semester has been super busy. But summer's almost here and that means plenty of more time to update! Yay! Oh and my chapters should have less grammar mistakes now that I got me an editor to read through them (aka my boyfriend) so if you see any mistakes….THEY'REHIS FAULT! Joking, joking :p Seriously I hope you enjoy this chapter :)

Ps. Thanks for GREAT reviews on the last chapter! I loved them!

Disclaimer: I do not own Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood

Chapter 10: So it begins

A bright blue sky promised another beautiful day in Central. It was Friday morning and the streets were busy with people preparing for a busy day of work before the joyful weekends began. The weather was nice; the people were in a happy mood. Yes, all was good in the city of Central.

CRASH!

Well...until now...

"ARRGHHH! THAT WAS MY LIVLIHOOD YOU IDIOT!"

A large crowd quickly formed around the remnants of a car crash that had happened mere seconds ago. The large black vehicle had run straight into a sales merchant's cart, completely destroying it and the items it held. The driver of the car stood close by, unharmed and with an apologetic look as he surveyed the damage. He fiddled with the hat in his hands as he bowed repeatedly to the angry merchant.

"I'm really sorry sir!" The driver gushed, looking rather shamefaced at his mistake.

The merchant grumbled, looking from the guilty driver to his destroyed stand. He let out a disgruntled sigh. "Well sorry isn't going to fix my stand."

"Looks like you could use some help!"

Both men looked up at the strange voice as sparkles began to rain down on them. There behind them stood a small red cloaked boy, with a giant suit of armor next to him waving fans around.

Edward smiled brightly at them, putting on a heroic air as he gushed, "It's a good thing I happened by! Edward Elric, State Alchemist at large!" He clapped his hands together, submerging the merchant's stand in blue light and fixing it good as new.

"Wow! That was amazing!" The merchant exclaimed, gaping at his new stand in awe.

"Thank you very much sir." the driver said, voice filled with relief. "Please, you have to let me repay you for this!"

Edward waved away the man's offer, grinning modestly. "Pay me? That's not necessary but thank you!"

An elderly woman stepped out of the crowd, holding an old antique vase. "Could you please help me with my broken vase?" She asked Edward hopefully. "It's a priceless family heirloom."

"Why no problem at all!" Edward replied, giving the crowd a thumbs up. "Haha!" He laughed, clapping his hands and restoring the vase to its original form.

At this point the crowd was going wild, several people pleading for Edward's assistance. With a simple clap of his hands, Edward managed to fix an old man's cane, a broken house, and upgraded a woman's simple baby carriage into a hard core, weapon induced baby mobile much to the mother's horror.

Despite this, the crowd cheered for the alchemist, applauding him for his contributions to the citizens of Central. Encouraging the applauders, Edward jumped on top of a street lamp so everyone could get a glimpse of him. "That's right! I'm here to help! I'm your friendly neighborhood State Alchemist! Don't forget! I'm Edward Elric!"

"Supper time! Me eat! Me eat!" Gluttony chanted happily, circling around Lust as they walked along a long stone corridor. Lust was silent, her mood as dark as the shadows that engulfed the hallway. Her footsteps stopped in front of a heavy wooden door, locked tight by an iron lock. Lust felt Winry gazing curiously at the door. She knew the girl would remain silent though, no matter how curious she was. The girls hadn't been on good speaking terms lately.

"Like we ever were." Lust thought bitterly before slashing her claws against the lock. It split clean in half, the pieces echoing loudly as they fell against the hard floor. The wooden door tilted open slightly. Beside Lust, Gluttony was practically giddy with excitement, drool forming at the edges of his mouth.

Lust swung the door open, revealing the room to be a jail cell. Four scrawny looking men in rags looked up as the dim light illuminated the small room. Holding their hands up to block the light, they gaped at the beautiful woman that stood in the doorway.

"Are you an angel?" One prisoner asked in awe.

"Not quite." Lust answered, a wicked grin growing as she stepped aside, allowing Gluttony a passage way in. "Eat up."

"YAY!" Gluttony cheered before a feral growl escaped his throat as he charged into the cell. Lust shut the door as the men's screams rang out.

"Don't take too long eating, Gluttony." Lust ordered, leaning against the wall to wait. "We don't have all day." The sound of jaws snapping and crunching bones was the answer she got.

Winry flinched as one prisoner cried out, falling prey to Gluttony's hunger.

"What's wrong?" Lust commented dryly, "Still bothered by Gluttony's eating habits?"

Winry glared, grinding her teeth together angrily at the snide. Was this how it was going to be now? The two of them doing what they could to make each other angry. "What did I expect?" Winry thought, also in a bitter tone. "It's been this way since that stupid night out on the town."

It seemed the last fight they had that night had been the last straw for them. The combination of not having full control of their body and the hurtful words that were exchanged had hit the girls dead home, exposing their weak spots to one another. Whether it was from anger or embarrassment, neither girl had spoken about that fight. That didn't mean it was forgotten. No, tense silences and the ignoring of each other's' presence made it clear they were still mad. Any chance of them forming some sort of bond was broken by the actions of that night.

Winry sighed, wishing for the millionth time she had her own body back. "It's kind of hard to ignore someone when they're stuck to you for good." She glanced at Lust and saw that homunculus was staring straight ahead, a far off look in her eyes that showed she too was deep in thought. "I wonder if she wishes she had her old body back too."

Now that Winry thought about it, it wasn't Lust's choice to inhibit her body. Lust was still dead when she was kidnapped by Envy and Gluttony. In a way, Lust was just as helpless in this situation as Winry was. Neither girl really had a choice in the matter.

"Still...that doesn't excuse all the horrible things Lust tried to get her body to do." Winry's thoughts returning to their girl's night out. "Losing my virginity! Really how ridiculous!" However, as Winry continued to fume over the events of that night, she couldn't help but replay certain parts in her mind...Lust's humorous reaction to not being able to enter a bar...learning some tips about how to flirt from Lust...Lust and Winry working together to find against Kotetsu...the girls getting soaked in beer as they crawled across the bar to get away from Izumi...At the last memory, Winry couldn't help but let out a small giggle.

Lust made a face at the sound, not expecting laughter to come from the girl. "What are you laughing about?" she asked, a hint of surprise in her tone.

"It's nothing." Winry replied, smiling despite herself. "I was just thinking about that one time we went out."

"Strange." Lust commented darkly. "I find nothing humorous about that night." She watched Winry shrug.

"No I guess you're right." Winry said with a smile. "But still, it helps to look at things in a new perspective. Kind of makes things funnier."

Lust stared at the girl for a moment, before turning away with an annoyed eye roll. "Humans." she muttered.

A yelp of pain rang out loud and clear from the cell room. Both Lust and Winry looked up in surprise. Lust peeked inside the cell and saw Gluttony crouching in the corner closes to the door. He was whimpering, holding his large hands over his face. "Gluttony? What is it?" Lust asked quietly.

At the sound of her voice, Gluttony removed his hands, a large piece of shale from the cell floor embedded in the spot where his eye should be. It looked like a prisoner had made a make-shift knife out of it and used it to attack Gluttony.

"Oh no Gluttony!" Winry cried in shock. Despite everything that Gluttony had put her through, Winry still found herself caring for the large homunculus. Especially since he had saved her from a nasty fall during Lust and Winry's battle with Kotetsu.

Lust's gaze darted away from Gluttony, eyes scanning the room for the culprit. She found him cowering in the farthest corner of the room. The filthy prisoner's body trembled as he watched Lust, with fearful, crazed eyes. In his hands, he held what looked like the other half of the shale rock. His hands shook as he held it up, stuttering a weak threat. "Don't come any closer! That monster! He's the demon I tell you! And you..." he said, pointing at Lust. "You're no angel! Just a witch in disgui-"

The man never finished his sentence as Lust's claws lashed out, the tips of her claws digging into his chest. The man gasped in pain, hands reaching out trying to remove the deadly nails. The white of his eyes shone in terror as Lust walked slowly towards him, leaning down close to his face. "Care to finish that sentence?" She hissed, claws moving inward causing the man to cry out in pain.

"LUST DON'T!" Winry screamed.

Lust glanced towards her and saw the young girl's face twisted into a look of terror and what seemed like betrayal. There was a hurt look in those blue eyes that for some reason made Lust feel a little uncomfortable.

Lifting the man up, she bought him close to her face, whispering into his ear in sweet, silky voice. "Last words of advice...never mess with a homunculus." With that said, she threw him to the ground, her hips swaying back and forth seductively as she exited, calling out over her shoulder. "He's all yours Gluttony."

Gluttony, whose injury had already healed, let out a growl and pounced on the man without a second thought.

Shaking her hands, Lust attempted to wipe the blood off her finger tips annoyingly. "Bad thing about you humans is the blood you leave behind." Lust commented dryly. "Such a pain to get out of clothes."

She got no response from Winry. Looking inward, she saw the young mechanic standing up, a dazed look in her eyes as she looked down at her hands, as if she too saw blood on them. "I can't believe I almost killed that man." she whispered, more to herself than anyone.

"Why so surprised?" Lust asked, "You didn't think I would let him get away from doing that to Gluttony, did you? Humans have to learn their place."

Winry didn't answer. Her mind still reeled with the feel of her claws digging into that man's chest. The warm as the blood flowed over her fingers. The beat of his heart as it thumped with fear. Winry covered her mouth, trying to keep from gagging.

Lust watched with a look of disgust. "You humans are so weak." Lust remarked, scathingly. "Can't even stand the sight of a little blood." She didn't know why she was so annoyed. She always knew the girl was like that. "I guess I figured she would have toughened up by now."

She drew her attention away from the weakly human and back to the outside world as a pair of footsteps echoed towards her. She instantly recognized the head of green hair that came around the corner.

"What's up Blondie?!" Envy said, sauntering over and leaning a hand against the wall next to Lust in a laid back manner. "Still feeding Gluttony?"

"The story of my life." Lust responded bluntly, not really in the mood to be social.

Envy's keen eyes fell on blood still fresh on Lust's finger tips. "I see you had to cut up the pieces for him. What a good older sister you are!" Envy teased sarcastically.

"Very funny." Lust drawled, not amused. "One of the prisoners thought he would be a tough guy and fight back."

"When will humans learn?" Envy sighed, shaking his head in mock pity.

Behind the two, the cell door opened as a satisfied looking Gluttony walked out, patting his belly happily. "Is there more?!" he asked, a hopeful gleam in his eye.

Lust shook her head, smiling amusingly. "Nope, sorry. You'll have to make do with that I'm afraid."

Gluttony's face fell, as his stomach gave a loud rumble. "But I'm still hungry."

"There's not enough prisons in Amestris to fill you up, Tubby." Envy remarked, bumping the famished homunculus on the head. "You should be lucky we can get the prisoners we can for you to snack on. Take too much and the humans start to notice!"

"Ouch! That hurt! LUST! " Gluttony called, rubbing his head.

"That's right! Go tattle to your babysitter!" Envy teased, sticking his tongue out.

"That's enough you two!" Lust snapped, stepping in between the two younger homonculus. She turned her head to Envy who was still making funny faces at Gluttony. "Envy is there something you came here for?"

"Oh yeah...Father wants you to come with me to feed the doctor." Envy replied offhandedly, attention still focused on tormenting Gluttony. He paused his attempts when Lust's finger flicked him on the forehead.

"Ouch! That hurt!" Envy growled, rubbing the red spot. Gluttony chuckled from his hiding spot behind Lust.

"Why does Father want me to go? I already had to go through the trouble of capturing that old loon, I shouldn't have to take care of him as well. Besides it doesn't take two people to feed one guy."

Envy shrugged his shoulders nonchalantly. "Who knows? I'm just passing on the orders. It's not like you have anything better to do."

"That's not the point." Lust muttered annoyingly.

"Come on! Let's just go! It's past lunch time already and I want to get this over with." Envy called out, already heading back the way he came. "I swear he better have eaten that breakfast I made him this morning."

"Why wouldn't he?" Lust asked, walking beside him while Gluttony followed in the rear.

Envy made an annoyed face, glancing her way. "Lately he hasn't been eating. I think he's trying to starve himself to death."

"Maybe he just doesn't like your cooking." Lust remarked, her voice slightly teasing.

"WHAT DID YOU SAY?!" Envy growled, green hair standing up straight with fury. Lust walked past him, a smug smirk on her lips.

"Sounds like Father thinks you can't handle the prisoner on your own." Lust teased, smirking at the indigent look on Envy's face. "No wonder he asked me to join you. Can't even get him to eat."

"What!? That's not true! I can get him to eat if I wanted to! I'LL CRAM THE DAMN FOOD DOWN HIS THROAT!" Envy yelled, arms waving wildly.

"I'm just joking." Lust said, placing a hand on Envy's head to stop his antics. "I swear you have a temper worse than that Fullmetal boy."

Envy's eyes narrowed at the sound of Edward Elric's state title. Though she meant it as an insult, Envy would see a slight smile on Lust's face as she said his name. Ducking away from her arm, he moved ahead of the group as they continued to Marcoh's cell silently.

Winry was still feeling weak when they arrived at the cell door. She watched warily as a pair of dog-like chimeras on leashes lifted their heads up when Envy and the gang approached Dr. Marcoh's cell. In Envy's hands, was the a dish of steak and potatoes he had cooked. The chimeras whimpered, trying to snap at Envy's feet for food.

"Down! This food isn't for you mutts!" Envy growled, kicking at the chimera's head, while he held the plate of food above his head. Gluttony's large hands reached up to grab a bit of potato from the plate before Envy snatched it down again, glaring at the large homunculus. "And it isn't for you either!"

Winry wondered slightly why they would have to keep a prisoner down here. It seemed like the homunculus had no problem killing humans. What was so important about this one that they had to keep him locked up?

Envy took a key out of his pocket and began to unlock the door. He stopped midway, glancing down at Gluttony. "You stay here...I haven't forgotten the last time I brought you over here."

Gluttony turned to Lust with a pleading look. "No Gluttony. He's right." She said, agreeing with Envy.

"Aww.." Gluttony sighed, pouting slightly.

The lock clicked open and Envy stepped in. Winry noticed Lust remained close to the door way, hiding in the shadows. She watched as Envy crossed the room and stopped at a small wooden table that sat next to the doctor's bed.

"Oh no, not again!" Envy growled, noticing the food he had left that morning laid completely untouched. He turned to Lust with an exasperated expression. "You see what I mean?"

Across the room, the doctor sat on his bed, looking every bit as miserable as Envy had described him. Winry felt her heart go out to the poor man. "What could they possibly want with him?"

Envy set the tray of fresh food down at the table, and pulled up a chair. "Look buddy, we've told you a thousand times! You're an important candidate for a sacrifice. We need you to keep your strength up. Understand? So dig in Dr. Marcoh."

"You know what?" Dr. Marcoh asked, not even bothering to face Envy. "I've been sitting here awhile. Trying to decide what you mean by sacrifice and to figure out why I'm here and what it is exactly that you want me to do."

"So he's a sacrifice too!" Winry racked her brain trying to think. "But what does that even mean!?" She glanced at Lust, who watched the Envy and the prisoner keenly. "Looks like I'm going to have to find out on my own."

Dr. Marcoh lifted his head, turning to glare at Envy, who sat comfortably in the chair with his hands resting on his head. "I'm fairly certain you're using this land and its people to form a giant human transmutation circle and you're hope is the end result would be the creation of a Philosopher's stone. Am I wrong?"

"A human transmutation circle?!" Winry repeated, chills running down her spine. "But isn't that...?"

BAM! BAM! BAM!

"Hmm?" Winry murmured, looking up from her bowl of stew. At her feet, Den growled menacingly, her tail hiding between her legs.

"Who in the world could that be?" Pinako wondered, getting up the supper table and walking cautiously to the door. As she neared, the knocking increased in volume, the door beginning to shake as someone tried to get in.

"Granny!" Winry cried, starting to get scared. She got off the table, hugging Den around the neck as she gave out a warning bark.

"Winry, get a wrench!" Pinako warned, grabbing a wooden cane as her own weapon.

"Right." Winry replied, quickly grabbing a wrench that laid on the counter.

Once she was sure Winry was armed, the old woman turned her attention back to the door. "What do you want!" Pinako yelled, holding up her cane defensively. "We don't have much so if you're looking for money you might as well scram!"

The door stopped shaking as a scared, frightened voice answered. "Granny! It's me Alphonse! Please you have to help! It's Ed! He's hurt bad! Please!"

"Ed!?" Winry repeated, fear taking hold of her.

Pinako dropped the cane, running to unlock the door. "Silly boy! Why didn't you say so in the first place! Come in! Come...Ah!" Pinako gasped, too horrified to speak.

The wrench slipped away from Winry's fingers as her blue eyes took in what stood before her. A giant suit of armor that had Alphonse's voice, stood cradling the limp form of Edward. Blood covered the small boy making him almost impossible to recognize. However there was no mistaking the two limbs that were missing.

"...Ed?" Winry whispered, the tears already falling down her face.

Several hours later, Winry entered the old house that Ed and Al stayed in. She found her grandmother, bend down and scrubbing at a large design on the floor. A couple feet away, the dark black spots of what could only be blood was strewn across the floor as if a body had drug itself around. Winry stood in the doorway, too scared to enter.

Pinako turned towards her, wiping sweat off her forward. "Winry dear. What are you doing here? I thought I told you to watch the boys."

"Ed's asleep." Winry answered timidly, her small hands fiddling with her apron. "And Al said I should check on you."

Pinako sighed, bending back over to scrub at the markings. Winry watched her, her gaze straying to the blood marks strewn across the floor. "Granny...how did Ed get hurt...?" Tears swelled in her huge blue eyes. "WHAT HAPPENED TO AL'S BODY!?" she cried, the tears falling rapidly.

Pinako paused in her scrubbing, back still towards the girl. "I'm not quite sure." She responded quietly. "I'll let those foolish boys explain their actions when they are ready." She paused, wrinkled hands passing over the circle. "All I know for sure is...those boys were messing with something too big for them."

She continued scrubbing as Winry mulled this over. Finally she threw the wooden scrub down, sighing heavily. "It's no use. This thing isn't going anywhere it looks like."

"What is it?" Winry asked quietly, staring at the circle. A dark aura seemed to radiate from it, making Winry shiver. Her wandered to the center where dark goo-like substance remained. A chill ran down her spine making Winry wonder what could have been there.

Pinako stood up, brushing off her dress. "I can't tell you too much." She began, darkly. "The only parts I know are what I've been told by Hohenhiem."

"Hohenhiem?" Winry asked, tilting her head confusedly.

"Edward and Alphonse's father." Pinako explained.

"They have a father?! I thought he was gone like my dad!" Winry exclaimed, surprised by this revelation.

"No. He's alive. At least, I believe he still is." Pinako turned back to the design, eyes shining behind her glasses. "As for this thing, I believe he called it a human transmutation circle."

"Human transmutation circle?" Winry repeated.

"Yes." Pinako replied. "And he said where ever you find one, trouble is sure to follow." The old woman stiffly got up, hobbling over to the young girl. "Come." She said, putting a hand on Winry's shoulder and leading her away. "We need to check up on Edward's condition."

As she was led away, Winry cast one last look behind her at the human transmutation circle. The image of it permanently embedded in her mind.

"That can't be good. That's the thing that caused Ed and Al to lose their bodies." Winry remembered. "But what does he mean by make a giant one? Is that even possible?"

Envy opened his violet eyes, grinning maliciously at the doctor. "So close, not quite. But you're on the right track."

Dr. Marcoh sighed in defeated. "Then what is it?"

Envy hopped out of the chair, stretching his limbs lazily. "The question is, are you going to cooperate with us or not?" He opened one eye to glance at the doctor, his grin growing. "If not, the village is history."

Winry gasped, this time out loud. She felt Lust giving her a warning glance.

The look on the doctor's face turned to horror as Envy continued his threat. "Lust told me about your arrangement. If we agree to leave the village alone, then you'll do whatever we ask."

"Lust!?" Winry exclaimed, shock and anger radiating from her voice. "I can't believe you'd threaten that poor man like that!"

"Quiet girl. This is none of your concern." Lust replied.

They watched as Envy leaned in closer to Marcoh, getting in front of his face. "Which is it? Agree to work with us and kill everyone in this country or refuse to work with us and watch everyone in your beloved village die?"

"Kill...everyone?" Winry whispered, her voice shaking. "Lust...how...?" Winry stopped herself. "No...I can't depend her to answer my questions anymore. If I'm going to figure this thing out I'm going to have to do it myself."

"Fool!" Envy laughed, menacingly. "You just have to forsake one little village to save an entire country. Too bad you don't have the stomach to do the logical thing." Envy drew back, a manic glint in his eyes, his smile twisted into a satanic smirk. "Hahaha! I shouldn't be surprised. This is just how all you humans are! You put your emotions before common sense!"

Envy went over to the table, picking up a knife. "I killed a man that was like that once. All I had to do was make myself look like his wife and he was helpless...couldn't even fight me!" Envy brought the knife down, digging it into the piece of steak, the evil grin on his face growing wider. "Humans are so easy to take advantage of...lucky us!"

"Lust! Stop this now!" Winry yelled, not able to take this anymore. She had heard way too much. She couldn't take watching Envy berate that poor man, who was just trying to protect his village. "Lust I'm serious!" Winry yelled, her voice growing angry.

Lust seemed to sense Winry's distress. Not wanting the girl to accidentally get control of the body, Lust stepped forward into the light, a cool smirk playing on her lips. "Now, now. Envy. Let's not get carried away with the doctor here." She ordered smoothly. "We wouldn't want our prisoner here to drop dead from a heart attack. What use would he be for us then?"

Envy turned away from the doctor, frowning slightly. "Well it wouldn't be my fault humans are so fragile." He glanced back at Marcoh, his grin returning. "Hope you had time to think about what I said old man. One wrong move and your village is histor-" Envy paused his tirade, realizing the doctor wasn't even listening to him. The doctor had his gaze set on Lust, his eyes widened in shock and his body trembling. Envy growled annoying, standing in front of Dr. Marcoh. "Hey pay attention to me when I'm talking to you, you scum!"

"It's you...you're here." Marcoh gasped, pointing a shaking finger at Lust.

Lust smirked smugly, flipping her blonde hair in a showy way. "I see you remember me, from when we last met old man. Can't say I blame you. Who could forget a creature as powerful as myself?"

"Sara?" Dr. Marcoh whispered in awe.

Lust's eyes widened, her smirk disappearing as confusion took hold. "Wait...Sara? Who the hell is Sara?" her voice betraying her irritation. She suddenly gasped, as a shock ran through her and her eyes became blinded with light.

An image appeared before her. A small girl stood in front of a country house, her mom and dad standing before her.

The dad knelt down, placing a gentle hand on the girl's shoulder. "Winry. We won't be away too long. You be a good little girl okay?" He said in a gentle voice. "Take care of things while I'm gone."

Tear's filled Winry's eyes as she watched her parents walk away, an Amestrian soldier escorting them.

"Wait!" Winry cried, running up the road towards them. Both parents turned, saddened looks upon their faces as Winry ran into her mother's arms. "Please! Don't leave me! I don't want to be alone!"

The mother gave her husband a knowing look, and starting walking back to the house, Winry held tight in her arms. "I know this is hard for you, Winry. But me and your father will be back before you know it."

"But me and granny need you here!" Winry whispered, sparkling tears running down her cheeks. "I need you here. If you leave, I'll be alone."

The mother smiled sadly. "You're never alone sweetie. You have your granny and Den here with you. You also have the Elric brothers to keep you company." She gave sweet laugh. "I'm sure they'll keep you so busy you won't even miss me or your father!"

Winry frowned, arm tightening around her mother's neck. "Those boys aren't my friends. All they do is tease me." She was surprised to feel a chuckle come from her mother.

"Is that so? Well, let me tell you a secret." She whispered, holding a finger to her lips. "Usually when boys tease little girls, it means they secretly have a crush."

"Ewww! That's gross!" Winry exclaimed sticking out her tongue disgustingly. "Why can't they just be nice?"

"Boys just like to be difficult I imagine." The mom explained jokingly. Her voice grew soft as she felt more tears fall on her shoulders. "Winry. You know I would love nothing better than to stay here with you."

"Then why don't you?" Winry asked, choking back a sob as she buried her head into her mother's shoulders, trembling as she fought back more tearful sobs.

"Because there are people who need my help." She answered softly, stroking Winry's hair gently. "You might not understand now, but someday there will be people in your life who look to you for help also. You're such strong, brave girl, Winry. Your strength will be a guiding light to those when they are at their weakest. " She pulled Winry back, her gentle sapphire eyes meeting teary baby blue ones. " That's what we humans do. We look out for one another. It's what keeps us alive and keeps us moving forward."

They had arrived at the house. The mother gently set the girl down, patting her head lovingly. "Remember what I said Winry, okay?" Winry nodded her head sadly, the tears still falling. Her mother smiled, trying to see her smile before she left. "How about this? As soon as I come back, I'll help you with that little boy problem of yours."

Winry nodded, a small smile on her lips. With a kiss goodbye, the mother made her way back to her waiting husband. Together they walked away, only their backs being seen as they disappeared.

Lust snapped out of the vision, sweat trailing down her forehead. It seemed only a second had gone by since she had blacked out. Marcoh was still gaping at her, eyes wide with astonishment.

To her surprise, he stood up and took a step towards her, one hand reaching out to touch her hand. "It can't be..."

Lust flinched back violently, as his skin made contact with her. She glared dangerously at him, anger and confusion making her hostile. "Your brain must be going idle with age, old man. I don't know who this Sara is you're talking about. But I can assure you..." Lust lashed out her claws, the light shining on them dangerously. "I am not her."

"She...she was my mother." Winry whispered quietly.

Lust's eyes widened, this new piece of information taking her by surprise. "Her mother?"

Dr. Marcoh fell to his knees in front of her, clutching his head with both hands as if trying work out an extremely difficult equation. "No...you're right...you can't be her...even if you look just like her..." Marcoh was muttering feverishly to himself, tears starting to trail down his face. "I was there...I saw them...there was so much blood...I had to examine their bodies..."

Lust could feel Winry trembling at this man's words. Her emotions spinning around her like a tornado, making it hard for Lust to concentrate or even focus. The old man's gaze looked up at hers, as if trying to find the missing piece to a puzzle.

"I heard rumors about a daughter they left behind in Resembool." Lust froze up as he grabbed her hand, staring at her with more intensity than she's ever seen the prisoner possess. "Could it be that you are Sara Rockbell's daughter?"

"I..." Lust was having a hard time finding her voice. The world around her seem to be closing in, reflecting the disarray Winry was in. With a shake of her head, Lust kneed the old man in the gut, making him fall over wheezing with agony.

Envy blinked, stunned at his older sisters violent actions. "Geez and here you were telling me to go easy on the prisoner!"

But Lust wasn't listening, a manic expression shone on her as towered over the kneeling doctor, claws already extending. "DON'T EVER TOUCH ME AGAIN YOU FILTHY OLD MAN! I don't want you to ever mistake me for one of your weakly humans! Now have you remembered who I am yet or do I need to use THESE to jolt your memory?!" Lust snarled, claws hovering over the doctor's face.

Only the doctor's labored wheezes answered her question as the old man tried to catch his breath. Lust growled annoyingly, throwing him down on the ground roughly. "Take him away. I'm through here."

As she turned to walk out the door way, she heard a voice speak. "I know you are the creature that kidnapped me." Dr. Marcoh wheezed out in a raspy voice. "But I also know that that is not your true body. If my suspicions are correct and that is the body of Sara Rockbell's daughter, then be warned..." Marcoh wheezed, clutching his chest painfully. "That nothing good can come out of an evil being possessing a body so pure."

"Yeah, yeah, yeah! My ears are getting tired listening to your damn blubbering, old man." Envy said, grabbing the man's shirt collar and dragging him back to his bed. "Why don't you be a good doctor and shut the hell up?!" Envy growled, throwing the prisoner back onto this bed violently. Dusting his hands off, Envy turned to Lust amusingly. "Ain't that right Lust?" He blinked when he realized Lust wasn't in the room anymore. "Lust?"

Lust ran, her heals clinking against the stone floor loudly. The empty corridor echoing with the sound, even after she had stopped, chest rising and falling heavily as she several deep breaths, trying to calm her shaking body.

Winry was no better. She sat on her knees, blonde hair falling into her face as she tried to process what had just occurred. "He knew my parents...he knows what happened to them..."

After a moment of composing herself, Lust stood up, nails digging into the palms of her hand as she balled them up angrily. "What the hell was that about?!" she snarled out loud, not even bothering to hide her voice.

Winry flinched, the memory of her mother making than less than keen to argue with seething homunculus. "I already told you! He thought you were my mother! I must...I must have looked like her." Winry said, a hint of sadness in her voice.

"Not that!" Lust growled in frustration. "That thing you did! I blacked out and saw this mother and daughter together...what was that?" For the first time, actually confusion shone in Lust's eyes. "What did you do?!"

Winry gaped at her, blue eyes wide and slightly scared. "You...saw that?" She clutched her head, her mind starting to reel again. "You couldn't have..."

"What?" Lust snarled, getting impatient. Winry lifted her head, a dead look in her eyes that Lust had never seen before.

"That was a memory of me and my parents." Winry replied solemnly. "It was the last time I ever saw them."

Now it was Lust's turn to gape. "A memory...Winry's memory...but how?"

Both Winry and Lust were silent, dread beginning rise within them. What if it wasn't just their bodies merging together. What if their minds were too? Would they soon be unable to hide their most sacred of thoughts from each other?

"Lust...what does this mean?" Winry asked quietly.

"I'm not sure." Lust replied truthfully, a slight tremble to her voice.

"Who are you talking to Lust?" whispered a childish voice from the shadows.

Lust and Winry froze, both recognizing that voice instantly. Glancing towards the shadows against the wall, she felt rather than saw one malicious eye open up, staring up at Lust's scared face.

"Is that...?" Winry whispered, never before seeing Pride in this form.

"Yes." Lust answered back, keeping her gaze locked on him. She mentally prepared herself before putting on a coy smile, and asking. "Pride. What are you doing so far away from your post?"

"Father sent me to fetch you. He wants you to meet with Wrath and discuss the next phase in our plans." Pride explained, his one eye unmoving as it glanced up at Lust.

"Father just wants me all over the place, doesn't he?" Lust remarked dryly, her defenses lowered slightly as she realized the homunculus wasn't a threat.

"You should be happy to be back in Father's good favor." Pride remarked, a pointy tooth grin appearing out of the darkness. "After the stunt you pulled, you're lucky you aren't stuck on tunnel duty."

"No that's your duty." Lust replied coolly. The pointed grin, frowned slightly, violet eyes narrowing.

"I guard the tunnels." Pride responded flatly.

"Guarding, digging. It's all the same." Lust grinned, crossing her arms over her chest. "You're still stuck in the dark."

"Lust." Winry hissed warningly.

"Who were you talking to Lust?" Pride asked again, ignoring Lust's comment. For a moment, Winry feared Lust wouldn't be able to come up with an answer. However, the homunculus surprised her, keeping an even head as she answered the fearsome shadow.

"I was complaining out loud to myself about Gluttony." Lust said, with an overly annoyed expression. "Every once in a while he likes to wander through these tunnels, looking for food." She sighed wearily. "It's such a pain in the ass to have to look for him."

Pride continued to stare at her. Winry wondered if he would believe that story. After several tense moments, the shadows around them started to move as Pride exited, calling out a last few instructions. "Very well. Find Gluttony and head straight to Wrath."

"Achoo!"

"Bless you!" Alphonse responded as his brother scratched the tip of his nose with one gloved hand. The two brothers sat at a small cafe, taking a small break. All morning they had been traveling around town, showing off as much alchemy as they could to draw attention to themselves. By the looks they were getting from the various passersby walking past the cafe, Alphonse figured they were doing a good job. From the look Edward wore, Alphonse knew he had noticed too.

"Hahaha!" Edward laughed, leaning back in his chair smugly. "I'm pretty sure everyone in Central knows my name by now!" he continued to chuckle to himself.

"Well you were a little over the top." Alphonse remarked playfully.

"Yep at this rate Scar should have no trouble finding me. Once he shows up, the Homunculus are sure to follow." A determined flare rose in Ed's eyes, knuckles cracking at the ready. "I won't let Winry escape, not this time."

"How are we going to get her to resurface again?" Alphonse asked, watching his brother carefully. "We can't keep breaking your automail each time she shows up. It's too dangerous."

Edward grabbed his orange drink and sucked on his straw thoughtfully. "I'm not sure Al. Maybe Winry will be able to take control on her own, without our help."

"That's a big maybe." Al pointed out.

"Well what do you think?!" Edward asked, irritated.

"I don't know. I just wished we knew more about how this sharing a body thing works." Al admitted agitatedly. "It's nothing we've ever seen before."

Edward set his cup down, glancing at Al thoughtfully. "You can't say it's totally new. I mean it's not like your soul is in its original body either."

"That's different brother. My soul didn't have to share this body with another soul!" Al rebuked. "Two souls existing in the same body just doesn't seem very plausible..." Alphonse suddenly recalled the words of Barry the Chopper.

"I guess a body just can't hold up with someone else's soul shoved inside of it.."

"Why didn't Winry's body reject Lust?" Alphonse wondered confusedly.

"It has to be the stone." Edward spoke, staring at his brother. "The power from it must be stronger than we anticipated. Damn this stone's becoming more trouble than it's worth!" Edward growled, taking another swig of his drink.

"I wonder what it must like to share a body with someone." Alphonse thought out loud, looking down at his hands. His head suddenly perked up and he turned to his brother, red eyes sparkling. "Brother! Instead of me having this suit of armor, what if me and you shared a body?!"

Edward's eyes burst open and orange juice sprayed out of his mouth. "Are you crazy! That's sounds horrible!"

"I don't know..." Al pondered, tapping his metal chin. "Think about it! I'll be able to eat and sleep just like if I was in my own body."

"Yeah except you wouldn't be in your own body! You'll be in mine!" Ed said, poking at a thumb at his chest. "Besides, what's in it for me? It's my body! I think should be able to gain something from letting your soul rent space in it!

"Who knows brother? Maybe both our souls together will cause your body to grow a few more inches." Al remarked teasingly.

Ed glared at his younger brother. "That's not funny Al! You...wait...you could be right!" Ed's eyes started sparkling as he imagined himself in a taller and handsomer body. "Al you're a genius!"

Al sweat dropped at his delusional sibling. "Brother I don't think that's how it works..."

"Imagine what it would be like..." Edward began, closing his eyes with a dreamy expression.

"To share a body..." Alphonse finished, doing the same thing.

"Together...Hmmmm..." both boys murmured, thought bubbles appearing over each of their heads.

Scenario #1:

Location: Liore:

The scene showed a childlike doodle drawing of Edward sitting at the drinking bar in Liore, talking to the bartender and his many customers.

"So you say you're the Fullmetal Alchemist eh?" He asked, wiping a glass with apron.

Ed rubbed the back of his head modestly and spoke in Al's voice. "Well kind of...it's kind of complicated..heheh."

"Are you serious?!" One of the men piped up incredulously. "I would have never thought the Fullmetal Alchemist would be so short."

Al chuckled good naturedly. "Well you know how it is. I'm sure my growth spurt will happen eventual—AHHHH!" Al clutched Edward's head as a pained expression crossed his and his eye's turned into black pools of death.

Ed grabbed the bartender by the shirt collar, a shaking him like a Mexican maraca. "SHORTY?! SHORTY?! WHO YOU CALLING A PIPSQUEAK YOUP PIECE OF..."

"Oh my!" came Alphonse's calm and apologetic voice as he let go of the dazed man and began to dust him off. "I am so sorry about that! Please forgive me for my violent outburst." Al asked, bowing his head. "I fully acknowledge my shortness and am confident I will gain my short spurt eventually."

"WHAT THE HELL?!" Came Edward's angry voice. "HE JUST CALLED US SHORT! HOW CAN YOU JUST SIT AND LET HIM GET AWAY WITH IT!?"

"But brother! We are short!" Al's voice piped up.

"NO LITTLE BROTHER OF MINE CALLS ME SHORT!" Ed ranted, gaining control again and hitting himself over with his fists. "I'LL GLOBBER YOU!"

"Umm...is that boy okay?" One of the men at the bar asked, watching confusedly as Edward repeatedly punched himself on the head.

Scenario #2

"Man oh man! That was some meal!" Edward exclaimed, patting his full belly. "Time to go catch a few Z's before the train leaves." Ed made to get up from the table, when Al's voice spoke in his head.

"Brother...you forgot your milk."

Edward's eyes narrowed dangerous. "I'm not drinking the milk."

"Oh I think you are." Al responded, in a slightly evil voice. "Remember, this is my body too. And I don't want to stay short the rest of my life!"

"WHO YOU CALLIN-ARGH!" Edward's rant was cut short and milk was forcefully poured into his mouth. Edward made a choking, gurgling sound as his own hand forced the white poison into him.

"Mmmmm...milk." Alphonse hummed, as Ed continued to make gagging sounds.

Scenario #3:

Picture shows an illustration of Ed walking down the sidewalk, passing by an old cardboard box with a sign that said "FREE KITTENS." Inside, a small orange kitten looked up at Ed with big blue eyes and gave a cute, "Meow."

Ed walked past without even glancing down at it. However, the same wasn't true for his little brother...

"ED! DID YOU SEE!? DID YOU SEE THAT! IT WAS A KITTEN ED! CAN WE GO PET IT!? CAN WE? CAN WE?!"

"No Al." Ed replied grumpily. "I have to go deliver these reports to Mustang before he gets on my ass about it later."

"PLEASE BROTHER! PRETTY, PRETTY PLEEEEEEASE!?"

"I said no! I don't want to pet the damn cat!" There was a moment of silence when Al voice returned, this time sounding depressed. Sad violin music starting playing in the background.

"I see...I'm very sorry brother for bothering you. I know you don't really like animals too much. It if only I had my own body back...then I wouldn't have to bother you with all my grueling requests. If only I didn't come up with the idea to bring our dear mother back from the dead. Then none of this would have happened and I would still have my body back and wouldn't have to share one with you. I was so stupid. Oh wait...I didn't come up with that idea. It was YOUR IDEA Brother. But I forgive you..." Ed stopped walking, is expression a mixture of annoyance and guilt.

"Fine Al! We'll go pet the kitten..." Ed muttered begrudgedly.

"YAAAAYYYY!" Al cheered, the depressing violin music stopping abruptly.

Al continued to cheer as Ed slowly drudged his way back to the card board box. He looked down at the litter of kittens with distaste. "Okay which one?" Ed asked in boredom.

"Oh! Ah! Mmmm... I don't know. They all look so cute!"

"JUST PICK ONE!"

"Okay...that one! The orange one!"

Edward grabbed the orange kitten that had meowed earlier by the scruff of his neck. "Okay we held it. Can we go?"

"Ed! Don't hold it like that! You're hurting it! Cuddle him!"

"I. Don't. Cuddle." Edward growled, through clenched teeth.

"Our dead mother use to cuddle with us..."

"God damn it Al." Edward cursed, slowly bringing the cute kitten to his face and glaring at it. "Just so you know cat, this is only a onetime thing." he muttered, as he reluctantly cradled the kitten like a baby.

"Mew." the kitten meowed, licking Ed's nose.

"Ohhh! He likes us! Can we keep him!" Al begged his brother. Ed shook his head, about to put the kitten back in the box.

"No Al! I said we could pet the kitten! Not keep it! You know we can't take care of pet when we're on the road all the time!"

"Mom kept us!" Al argued heatedly, taking control of Ed's other arm and grabbing the kitten from Ed. The kitten gave a shriek of dismay at the sudden jerk.

"NO AL! YOU'RE NOT GUILT TRIPPING ME INTO THIS ONE! THIS IS MY BODY AND I SAY NO PETS! Edward argued back, grabbing the kitten back with his left arm.

"NO IT'S OUR BODY AND I WANT A COMPANION!" Al yelled, grabbing the kitten back.

"YOU HAVE ME!" Ed yelled, pulling on the kitten's tail.

"WELL YOU SUCK!" Al yelled back, pulling on the cat's neck fur.

"MEOW!" the kitten shrieked, before it was split totally in half.

"AHHHHHHHHHH!" Both Ed and Al screamed, both swatting away the thought cloud until it dispersed into thin air.

Al covered his face with his hands dejectedly. "You were right brother! Us sharing a body would be a terrible!"

"You're telling me! All you would do is whine and make me drink milk." Ed grumbled, the thought making him shudder.

"Me?! You would be the difficult one. If I had to share a body with you, you would never let me be in control!"

"Well it is my body!" Ed argued, crossing his arms over his chest stubbornly. "Doesn't that automatically give me 75% control over it?!"

"You're so greedy brother! You're just like Lust!" Al pointed out heatedly.

"I am not! Take that back!"

"No!" Al sneered, turning his head away from his annoyed brother. "If we shared a body I know you wouldn't ever let me be in control, not even to eat. It's not like you share your food with me now."

"YOU DON'T EVEN NEED FOOD!" Ed yelled angrily, both hands slamming on the table.

"It would still be nice if you would offer." Al pointed out snootily.

"HOW ABOUT I SHARE A KNUCKLE SANDWICH WITH YOU!"

"When did you become so theatrical Fullmetal?"

"Huh?" Both Al and Ed turned behind them and saw a black car parked next to the cafe they were sitting at. Roy Mustang peered at them from the back window, wearing a look of disapproval.

"Great, just what we need." Edward muttered under his breath.

"He looks mad." Alphonse whispered, nervously.

"Yeah well what's new?" Edward muttered back. He stuck his hand into his interior cloak pocket and took out a small book. In a louder voice, he called out to the Colonel irritated. "What do you want Mustang?"

"Just taking a cruise around town, checking things out." Roy answered nonchalantly, stilling watching the boys. "What have you boys been up too?"

"What does it look like?" Edward answered coldly, face stuck in his book as he tried to ignore the Colonel.

"Me and brother have been doing some research on the homunculus." Alphonse answered in a friendlier tone, motioning towards the book Ed was reading. "Just like you asked us to!"

"I see..." Roy drawled, looking somewhat skeptical. His oynx eyes glued onto Edward, who purposely had his back facing the Colonel trying to ignore him. The Colonel gave a slight smile. "It must be kind of difficult to study when the book you're reading is upside down."

Edward's face reddened as he realized his mistake. "BUG OFF MUSTANG! CAN'T YOU SEE ME AND AL ARE BUSY!"' Edward yelled angrily.

Ignoring Ed's outburst, Roy continued quietly. "I have some information for you boys that you might find interesting."

All anger faded from Ed's face at this news. Both him and Al jumped away from the table and rushed to the car window, each trying to question the Colonel first.

"Really!? Are you serious!" Al chirped happily.

"What is it? Is it about Winry?!" Edward asked excitedly.

Both boys were hushed as Roy held up a gloved hand. "Hold on." He said seriously. "People are watching us...Get in."

Several minutes later, both Edward and Al were forced into the Colonel's small vehicle. Edward sat impatiently in front next to Lieutenant Hawkeye. Alphonse had the misfortune of sitting in the back with the Colonel, completely squishing him against the passenger door.

"Sorry Colonel!" Alphonse apologized as his elbow knocked against Mustang's cheek, further pushing him against the window.

"On second thought...let's get out." Roy mumbled through pinched cheeks.

After driving to a more secluded alley, Roy, Edward, and Alphonse managed to get out of the car without too much difficulty. While Riza stood watch with an armed gun, Roy broke the news about Dr. Marcoh's disappearance to the Elric brothers.

"Dr. Marcoh gone missing?" Edward repeated, staring at the Colonel incredulously.

"Looks like it." Roy answered darkly, leaning against the car door. "Breda called last night. He reported his place had been demolished, probably from a huge fight."

"Colonel?" Alphonse asked timidly. "Do you think Lust had anything to do with this?"

The Colonel's frown deepened slightly. "I'm keeping my options open, but that's a huge possibility." Roy responded, not bothering to sugar coat. "Remember, Dr. Marcoh had valuable knowledge about the Philosopher's Stone; knowledge that the homunculus wouldn't want to fall in the wrong hands. I wouldn't be surprised if they had him held captive."

Edward clenched his teeth, frustration eating at him. Somewhere Winry was out there dealing with a bunch of murders and kidnappers. Alphonse looked equally upset, however for a whole other reason.

"Brother!" Alphonse spoke urgently. "What if Dr. Marcoh had information about that could have helped us separate Winry and Lust?!"

Edward's eyes widened with shock. "Al you're right! Damn it!" Edward growled, pushing his fist into his other hand. "Why didn't we think of that before!?"

"No use worrying about spilled milk now." Roy remarked, watching the two boy's exchange. "There's actually another thing I've been meaning to talk with you boys about." Both Ed and Al snapped out of their worries, looking at the Colonel with curious expressions.

"I've been hearing rumors going around town; rumors of the Fullmetal Alchemist performing good deeds and helping the people of Amestris without expecting a single bit of payment in return. Upon the hearing these tales, I had to find you two and ask..." Roy turned his gaze to Edward, glaring at him dead in the eyes. "What are you up to?"

"Wha?!" Edward asked, shocked.

"You heard me Fullmetal." Roy repeated, his voice deadpan. "What are you two up to?"

Before Ed could say anything, Alphonse stepped in between them, holding up both hands innocently. "Colonel, how can you question Edward like that? Me and brother have been staying out of trouble, just like you asked us too!"

"I know...that's what worries me." Roy responded, his deep voice filled with suspicion.

Edward moved his brother out of the way and looked up at the Colonel with the most good-natured expression he could muster. "Come on Mustang! Is it so hard to believe that me and Al are just helping the people of Central from the good of our hearts?" Both Ed and Al smiled innocently up at him.

"Like I said." Roy said, not even close to being fooled by their act. "What are you up to Fullmetal?"

Edward and Al remained silent, eyes adverting away from the Colonel. Roy gave a frustrated sigh, leaning off the car and standing at his full height over Edward. "Look boys, I don't have time for your games. I'm sure you've heard that's Scar's back." He noticed the two boys glance at hear other quickly, before turning their attention back on him. "So what's with the showboating?" Mustang asked seriously. "Do you want him to find you?"

Edward took a deep breath and turned to Roy with a cocky smile. "Yeah that's right, that's exactly what I want!"

"Brother!" Al gasped. Ed ignored him, his attention glued on the Colonel, who wore of look of surprise on his face.

"I need to fight him." Ed continued, still grinning at Mustang. "And you can't talk me out of it!"

In a micro-second Roy was towering over Edward, yelling furiously. "Have you lost your mind!? We already have to deal with Lust! Do you really want to get Scar involved too?!"

Ed crossed his arms, his posture reflecting indifference. "What's it to you? It's not like we're disobeying you're orders. You told us not to go after Lust and we're not." Ed pointed out smugly.

"SO YOU GO AFTER THE NEXT DANGEROUS PSYCOPATH!?" Roy barked, an angry vein pulsing on his head. "Did you forget the way he tore you apart in East City?!"

"Ohhh!" Edward teased, making a scared face. "Sounds like the Colonel scared of big, bad Scar! I'm not surprised considering how useless you were against him! Hahahaha!"

Roy's face turned red with fury, his teeth becoming pointed fangs as he drew closer to Edward's mocking expression. "That wasn't my fault! IT WAS RAINING THAT DAY!"

"Was it raining when you got beat up by Lust and send to the hospital?!" Edward countered, sticking his tongue out at him childishly. "YOU'RE STILL USELESS!"

"Shut your mouth Fullmetal" Roy growled out, hands preparing to strangle the young alchemist, while Al looked on with a worried expression.

The three's childish banter was cut short by the click of Riza's shotgun. The boys quickly turned and saw the sniper staring intently at a figure standing at the end of the alley. Scar stood tall, sunlight illuminating off his body, casting menacing shadows across his hooded face.

"Looks like Scar got your invite." Roy muttered, nervous sweat dripping from his forehead as he got into a battle stance, along with Ed and Al.

"You okay?" Edward asked, his mocking grin growing strained as fear started to set in. "You think it was raining the way your forehead's dripping."

Riza lifted her gun, aiming it straight at Scar's head. Ed quickly jumped in her way, knocking her gun aside. "Hold it! Don't shoot Lieutenant!"

"What?! You can't be serious!" Hawkeye protested, looking at Ed like he was insane.

He didn't budge, his grin set on Scar. "I'm trying out the Colonel's sport." He growled, watching as Scar moved in ready for the attack. "I think I might be able to catch a few fish!"

Scar bought his hand down to the ground, blue sparks flying off of his arm. The ground beneath them shook as rock slabs shot up aiming towards the group. Edward ran forward quickly. Al stayed behind, clapping his hands and forming a rock shield to protect Mustang and Hawkeye. Once out of view, Al turned to them, laying out their full plan.

"We're using brother as bait to lure out the homunculi." Al explained quickly, crouching down next to the Colonel. "You heard Lust, he's too important to them. They can't afford to just let him die."

"That's crazy!" Roy growled, as the sound of Ed and Scar battling increased, shaking the wall they hid behind. "Didn't I tell you all to stay low?! Do you know how much attention this is going to attract?"

"All the government will see is another State Alchemist being attacked by Scar." Al countered, staring the Colonel down.

Roy blinked, realizing what Al said was true. It was the perfect cover up. "That doesn't hide the fact that this plan is too dangerous! What the hell are you going to do if the homunculi even show up?! It's going to take two of you to take down Scar!"

"Ling and Lan Fan are waiting nearby. They'll let us know when they as soon as the homunculi show up." Al explained. Roy looked even more distressed at this news.

"You're telling me Ling is in on this too?!" Roy demanded angrily. "Al this is ridiculous! This fight isn't like before! Scar isn't like Lust, he can actually kill your brother! This is the most idiotic plan I've ever heard of!"

"Don't you think I know that!" Al argued, his voice seething. "I know how dangerous this is! But this isn't about me or Ed! This is about saving Winry! We already made a promise that we would do whatever it takes. Using ourselves as bait is the only way we can get that accomplished without anyone getting hurt!"

Roy's dark eyes studied Al, his expression unreadable. "What are you going to do if Scar happens to get shot? The MP's might get here before the homunculi."

"You can stop that from happening." Al remarked quietly. "Can't you Colonel?"

"So now I take orders from you, is that it?" Roy responded annoyingly. "You've got a lot of nerve."

A loud explosion issued from the other side of the wall. Alphonse jerked his head up, worry laced in his voice. "Sorry Colonel! I have to go!" he called out, before quickly running to the other side of the wall, leaving the Colonel and Lieutenant behind.

Riza turned to the Roy, eyes questioning. "What are your orders sir?"

Roy still remained crouched, face set in an angry scowl. Indecision shone in his eyes. Should he help the two brothers, even though they went against his orders? Or should he let the MP's handle this and have them capture Scar?

"Sir?" Riza asked tentatively.

"Damn it!" Roy growled, slamming his fist against the wall. He stood up and started sneaking away. "Come on Lieutenant! Let's go!"

Riza got up, quickly following her superior. "Where are we going?" She asked as she drew level with him.

"Sergeant Fuery's townhouse is close by. If we hurry we should be able to head off the MP's." Roy explained, an annoyed look still plastered on his face.

"Yes sir." Riza said, a small smile tracing her lips.

Overlooking the battle from above, two figures stood on top of one of Central's highest buildings. Ling sat crouched down, hand resting on his sword hilt casually. Lan Fan stood over him, keen eyes making out the beginnings of the first part of their mission.

"Any time now Lan Fan." Ling said, smiling lazily at the battle below.

Without looking away from the fight, Lan Fan spoke, her voice slightly hesitant. "My lord..."

Ling tilted his head towards her listening. Lan Fan continued softly, "My Lord...is it truly wise to be continuing on down this path?"

"What path is that?" Ling asked jokingly.

"The one where you put yourself involved with the affairs of this country." Lan Fan answered quietly. Silence followed this statement.

"Go on." Ling ordered, knowing there was more.

"We have wandered through these strange lands for many moons now. With no news from our home country, there is no telling the condition of your father or even if he's still alive. I fear that the longer we stay the more likely another clan will win over the kingship." Lan Fan bowed her head solemnly. "Our clan cannot afford that."

"Are you scared I have abandoned our country for the prosperity of this one?" Ling asked in a serious tone.

Lan Fan's eyes widened in fear behind her mask. She fell to the ground, bowing franticly as her eyes teared up at the very thought of her lord abandoning them. "NO MY LORD! I would never assume such a horrid thing about you! Your loyalty to our clan reaches no bounds! Please forgive me for my words!" She lowered her head to the ground; she could hear the sound of chuckling. Lifting her gaze, she saw Ling holding a stitch in his side as laughter erupted from him. "My lord?"

"Hahaha! I'm sorry Lan Fan!" Ling laughed, wiping a tear from his eye. "But it just so easy to mess with you. Hahahah!" As the laughter died, Ling straightened himself up, getting back into his crouching position, though an amused smile still hung on his face.

"You're worries are uncalled for Lan Fan." Ling remarked, turning his attention back to the battle scene. "I am too aware of our dire situation. However we cannot ignore the aid of a friend. Edward and Alphonse have been very helpful to our cause. It would be rude to not pay them back." Though Ling's words were genuine, Lan Fan sense her Prince was holding back. Like there was something he was hiding.

"There is more though..." Lan Fan guessed quietly.

Ling smirked, the grip on his sword tightening. "Hmm, always the clever one, Lan Fan. You are right to assume I have other motives for helping the Elric Brothers." He lowered his head, watching the figures of the Colonel and Lieutenant sneak away from the battle. "I am truly saddened to see ill fortune befall one who was so kind to us. However, one's curse could be someone else's blessing."

Lan Fan faced remained blank behind the mask, listening to her master's words. The carefree smirk slowly drifted away as Ling's voice grew darker.

"I want the burden Winry carries in her soul." Ling declared, squinty eyes opening up into maliciously slits. "I want it for myself."

Silence followed this declaration. He didn't have to hear Lan Fan's words to understand her. He could feel the shock radiating from her dragon's pulse.

"A King's duty is to his people." Ling explained, trying to get her to understand. "To give his life to them and protect them from harm's way. Even though we kings are picked by the hands of the Gods, we are still human, burdened down by mortality. If I am to fulfill my duty to my clan, I must have the strength and power to do so."

"Lan Fan..." Ling spoke softly, with an air of foreboding. "Whatever happens here in Amestris. Just remember my actions are for the good of our clan. Do you understand?"

Lan Fan bowed her head. "Understood, my lord."

Ling nodded at her, the goofy grin returning to his features. "Good, I knew I could count on you." He shifted his attention back to Edward and Scar. "Now we wait."

"So Wrath is the Fuhrer...right?" Winry asked, trying to keep these different identities straight.

"Bingo." Lust answer snidely, exiting out of a steel elevator that had bought them up from the underground. "Just stay quiet. That was already a close call with Pride. I don't want the same thing to happen with Wrath."

"But you were the one talking out loud!" Winry reminded her. Lust ignored that fact, going up to a door and knocking. It was silent for a moment, before there was a sound of air being released and the door in front of them swung open on its hinges.

Winry blinked in surprised as she realized that the door was actually a hidden door way, disguised as a wooden bookshelf. Before them lay the Fuhrer's office; an office fit for a king. Bookshelves ran along the walls of the room. Long drapes with the country's crest adorned the high windows. In the center, a simple but elegant wooden desk stood in at the head of the room. There sat the Fuhrer, greeted them with a pleasant smile.

"Ah! Lust. So glad you could make it." Bradley said, offering her a seat across from him.

Lust frowned and strode over to his desk, sitting down in the seat and crossing her legs in irritation. She glared at him from across the table, violet eye's blazing.

Bradley seemed to not of noticed for he reached over a small tea pot. "Care for a cup of tea?" he asked in a friendly matter.

"No thank you." Lust replied coldly.

"I see..." Bradley set the pot down and sat back in his chair, the annoying grin still stuck on his face. "So sister, how have you been lately? Envy mentioned to me that you went out the other night..."

"Cut the pleasantries Wrath." Lust cut him off harshly, anger flashing in her eyes. "We both know we have business that needs to be taken care of. So let's get this over with."

"My my, dying sure hasn't slowed you down much." Wrath commented, taking a sip from his cup, watching her annoyed posture. "Very well. We'll get to the point." He opened up one of his desk drawers, taking out a large, old looking map. He unrolled it and spread it across the desk's surface, all pleasantries gone from his expression.

Winry looked at the map curiously. She could see it was a large, detailed map of Amestris. She could make out her hometown of Resembool, a barely visible dot. Other cities such as Central were far easier to make out. But as she looked closer, she noticed there were names of towns that on the map that weren't even around anymore. Some that had been burned down decades ago and some that had been destroyed during past wars.

"How old is this map anyway?" Winry thought, glancing from one town to another. She then noticed something else. Big red X-marks were littered over various cities. "What are those far?" Winry wondered, trying to find a connection. "It can't be those cities are destroyed. One of the marks is on Liore and I know it's still around."

"As you can see..." Winry jolted up, so engrossed with the map she forgot about the two homunculi. Bradley was pointed a stick at the city of Liore. "The battles in Liore have ceased at the moment. However, Father believes that enough blood was shed to help us succeed in..."

"I'm well aware of the activities of Liore and how it effects our plan." Lust cut him off irritatedly. Winry had the sinking feeling that Lust did that so she wouldn't be able to figure out more of their secrets. "You forget that I was responsible for promoting the uprising with my little puppet Cornello."

"Ahhh yes... you did quite a service to our cause." Bradley commented, pushing the top of the map towards her. "Now your skills are needed for the next blood crest." He pointed to the country to the North of Amestris, Drachma. "As you can see, our goals are to the North this time."

A shrewd smirk grew on her dark lips. "Trouble with Drachma I imagine?"

"A few skirmishes on the border here and there. Bradley commented formally, one hand stroking his mustache. "Nothing too serious. However, I do believe it's time to put the fire out before it spreads. Wouldn't you agree?"

"I do." Lust replied suavely. Her gaze fell on the monstrous Briggs fort that stood on the border with Drachma. "What about the Briggs soldiers? I've heard rumors about General Armstrong." Lust commented, glancing at the Fuhrer's calm demeanor. "She's not going send her soldiers onto enemy territory without an offensive attack from them."

"Well about that." Bradley replied, eyes looking Lust up and down. "I was thinking we bring the fight to them."

"Crossing into enemy territory?" Lust laughed snidely, leaning back in her chair. "That's bold, even for you."

"Who said anything about me?" Bradley asked, getting up and walking to an alcohol cabinet not far from his desk. He unlocked it and pulled out a bottle of scotch with two empty glasses. Sitting back down, he poured a glass for Lust and handed it to her. "That's where you come in my dear. With your certain..." His gaze once again roamed her body. "...skills, I'm certain you'll have no trouble carving our new crest."

He lifted up his glasses, challenging the alluring homunculus. "How about it, Lust? Think you can handle things on the Drachma side?"

Lust's serious expression made way for a sensuous smirk. "Consider it done." she answered, taking a small sip of her whiskey.

"What the hell are they talking about?" Winry wondered, trying to piece together the information she overheard. It was hard by the guarded way the two homunculi spoke with one another. Irritation grew as Winry mulled over how Lust was doing her best to keep her in the dark. "I have to figure their plans out. I just got to." Edward and the Colonel were doing so much to help her, the least she could do is figure out what the enemy was up to.

Lust and Wrath's meeting was cut short as a loud knocking came from the door. Without waiting for an answer, a blonde haired soldier burst in, stomping straight to the Fuhrer's desk. Bradley barely blinked as the soldier instantly transformed into an agitated looking Envy.

"We have a problem." Envy wasting no time in saying. He paused, when he noticed the second homunculus in the room. Lust turned around in her chair, glass in hand as she waited to hear Envy's news.

"Please, continue with your report." Bradley ordered in a pleasant manner. He gestured towards Lust sitting across from him. "Lust and I were just finishing up our little chat."

Gaze traveling away from Lust, Envy continued, his expression growing somber. "Scar's on the move again. This time with one of our sacrifices."

"Scar?" Winry asked, confused.

"Are you positive?" Bradley asked, tone turning dark.

"Just ask Glut over here." Envy replied, pointing a thumb toward the bookshelf entrance. Gluttony poked his head inside, tongue out as drool started dripping from his mouth.

"I smell him! I smell the Ishvalan! Can I go eat him? Can I?" Gluttony asked, bounding over and circling the group.

"Very well." Bradley said, grabbing his swords off the wall. He nodded at Lust and Gluttony. "Shall we?"

"If we must." Lust replied dryly, getting up from her chair and turning to Gluttony. "Gluttony, you know where to meet us."

"Right!" Gluttony answered, running back to the bookshelf to get there through the underground.

Lust made her way to the door, with Bradley following close behind. Envy stood, holding the door open as the homunculus exited. As the Fuhrer walked past, Envy hissed a warning, eyes carefully watching the retreating Lust.

"Keep an eye on Lust." Envy whispered, lips barely moving. "Something went down in the prison room today. Something that seems really fishy."

"I see...I'll be sure to head straight to Sector 8." Bradley spoke in a normal tone, as if nothing had occurred. "Thank you soldier."

As Lust made her way down the hall, Winry tried desperately to get more information out of her. "Lust, who is Scar? What does him being here mean?" Winry asked anxiously.

"It means..." Lust replied coldly. "That your little boyfriend has landed himself in trouble once again."

Edward jumped, using alchemy to raise a rock column to keep him out of Scar's reach. He watched as his brother drove several rock slabs towards Scar. The Ishvalan lifted up his hand, destroying the rocks aimed toward his face and allowing the other rock jabs to pass by him harmlessly.

"Hey get out of the way!" a blue uniformed soldier yelled, aiming his gun at Scar. "We need a clear shot!"

"Great." Edward thought, glancing toward the soldiers. "The MP's are here already!" He quickly refocused his attention back on Scar as he began destroying the rock column Edward stood on. Ed fell and quickly dodged out of the way as Scar began aiming punches at his face.

As the soldier readied their weapons to fire, Alphonse ran in front of them, blocking their view of Scar. "Don't shoot! You'll hit my brother!"

"Damn it!" Edward cursed, dodging Scar's powerful punch. "Everything's lost if those guys shoot Scar!" He quickly pulled back as Scar raised his fist, preparing another deadly blow. "How long can I keep this up?" A panicked look crossed Ed's face as Scar's hand came down, quick as lightning. Edward barely moved his head out of the way. "Way too close! Hurry up you stupid Lust!"

"So you're really going to follow through with their plan?" Riza asked, switching on the light in Fuery's apartment.

"It's not like those boys left me with much of a choice." Roy muttered, flipping through Fuery's notebook filled with various radio signals and numbers. "What were those idiots thinking?!"

Riza walked to the table, putting on a pair of headsets. "I can't say I didn't warn you Sir. I did say they would do something drastic."

"Remind me to give you a gold medal when we get back to headquarters." Roy replied sarcastically. "Now what channels is the Post Marshals?" He asked, scanning the notebook quickly. "Ah! Got it! You haven't let me down Fuery." Roy remarked, turning on the radio.

Holding his nose to disguise his voice, Roy began speaking in a nasally voice to headquarters. "Attention! This is Sector 3 patrol! We're under attack from Scar! Request immediate back up! What?! NO! NO! AHHHH!"

Roy cut off the switch, a smile returning to his face. "Alright on to section 17! Hehehe...this is pretty fun!" he remarked, laughing and ignoring the irritated look Riza was cutting him. "Come in! Come in!"

Back at headquarters, chaos was ensuing as the military tried to figure out exactly where Scar was located. Colonel Douglas stood in the midst of soldiers barking orders and trying to piece together Scar's whereabouts.

"But that can't be right!" The Colonel yelled into the phone, "He's in Sector 17?! What about Sector 3?!"

"Colonel Douglas!" Douglas turned his attention away from the idiots on the phone and to a soldier sitting next to the radio, looking at a giant map of the city. "He's in Sector 8 now!" The soldier informed the Colonel.

"What's that?!" The Colonel barked in confusion.

Roy's disguised voice appeared on the radio. "MPHQ! Calling Sector 8! Scar is currently fighting a young man! The young man is a state alchemist! Do not fire!

The drive to the crime scene was filled with false reports of Scar blaring through the radio. Lust sat across from Bradley, legs crossed comfortably as she listened to the announcements.

False reports in all sectors! Reports of a fourth Scar! This is Sector 3! All Streets are clear! Sector 8 requesting back up! Currently engaged with Scar!"

"Reports of a fourth Scar?" Lust repeated, her tone slightly amused. "Not the brightest bunch of soldiers under your command are they?"

Bradley who sat promptly, hands resting on his swords hilts, merely smiled at the smart remark. "Yes, I'm afraid this sort of thing happens when we working with humans. They're kind prone to mistakes. Such foolish creatures, mind you, believing what they see even when it defies all common sense."

"How can he say that about humans when he's supposed to protect us?" Winry murmured angrily.

Lust raised an eyebrow at the Fuhrer. "Strange you can talk about humans that way considering the fact you were born one. Even now you work alongside them continuously, even choosing to spend your life with one."

"What better way to know the enemy than by working alongside them? As for me being born a human, I'm afraid the humanity part of myself died a long time ago." Bradley explained calmly. "It's funny, that stone which holds so many human lives within it pretty much ends yours once it touches your veins."

Winry gaped up at the Fuhrer. "So the Fuhrer wasn't born a homunculus? He was changed into one just like me." His last words repeated over and over again in her mind, the beginnings of fear starting to sink into her. "Will I eventually become just like him? Cold and heartless to the people I once cared about? Will the stone take away my humanity?"

Bradley watched his companion closely, dipping his head towards her. "What about you Lust? What say you about your dealings with humans? It is my understanding that you work with them quite a bit."

Lust and Winry stiffened at the comment. Lust turned away from him towards the window where to car had turned into the downtown district of Central. She noticed the bar that her and Winry had met Kotetsu in. She remembered the battle that followed and how she had had to instruct Winry on how to use her powers. Lust could still see the look of joy on the girl's face when she had finally mastered it. However, she could also see that same face looking up at her with hurt eyes as she tortured the prisoner who had attacked Gluttony.

Shaking her head to rid her of those thoughts, Lust turned away from the window, gaze falling back on Wrath. "Humans are nothing more than tools I use to get what I need. Once their usefulness is used up, I dispose of them. Simple as that."

Deep within, she felt anger radiate from Winry at those words, which Lust ignored.

"I see." Bradley responded, gaze not leaving Lust. "Oh good, we're here." Bradley announced, signaling for the driver to stop. A soldier opened the car door for the two as they stepped out, Bradley leading Lust followed. "Me and Gluttony will head Scar off." Bradley ordered, leading them into an alley. "Find the alchemist and lead Scar away from him towards us."

"Very well." Lust answered, already beginning to sneak away into a different alley.

"Oh and Lust?" Lust halted, blond hair falling in her face slightly as she turned her head back towards him. "As I recall, it was you and Gluttony who let Scar escape back in East City. Don't let that happen again." Her violet eyes narrowed slightly before she nodded, disappearing in a flash.

Bradley continued on his way, passing an alley where Gluttony was hiding in the shadows. "Come now, Gluttony." He ordered softly.

Gluttony's head shot up, his beady eyes shining as the smell of fresh food overwhelmed him. "I smell the Ishvalan! He's here! I get to eat him right?!"

It was at the moment, the two Xingese teens felt the presence of a homunculus. Ling glanced towards Lan Fan, his expression grim.

"You felt that presence too?"

"Yes." Lan Fan replied, grabbing her weapons.

"Then it's time to move." Ling ordered, grabbing his sword. The two leapt from the building heading towards the strange chi. The plan was in action.

"AHHH!" Edward yelled, jumping up and avoiding another one of Scar's deconstructing alchemy as Scar's hand shot down, the deadly blue light shining brightly from his hands. The building around the two shook, with pieces of brick falling down on to the battle ground.

Edward let out a hiss of pain as a piece of debris fell against his face, opening up a scar above his right eye. Edward made a noise of frustration as blood flowed downward, temporary impairing his vision. As he drew his head back, both eyes widened when Scar appeared, just a few inches in front of him, hand already extending towards the young alchemist's face.

"Which will it be?!" Ed thought franticly, eyes wide with fright. "Is he going to destroy my body or my automail?!"

"Brother!" Alphonse cried, watching with bated breath.

"Arghhh!" Edward screamed, clapping his hands together. Blue light radiated the alley as both him and Scar's hands collided. Scar leaped backwards, the scowl on his face darkening. Edward knelt down, holding his new automail cautiously as steam billowed from it.

"Lucky." Ed remarked, smiling despite himself. Alphonse shook his head, fear of the plan starting to resurface.

"He canceled out Scar's alchemy! How reckless can he get?!" Al exclaimed. His red eyes fell on Ed's adversary. Scar's arm also smoked from the impact, the sleeve of his cloak burned away and leaving his tattooed arm exposed. "He's got the tattoo!" Alphonse yelled to his brother, a hint of anger radiating from his voice.

Edward glanced up, eyes falling on Scar's arm. "Bastard." Ed growled, his golden eye's flashing with rage. "You were the one!"

"I smell him!' Gluttony exclaimed joyfully, running across roof tops with abnormal speed, trying to find the delicious Ishvalan. "Time to eat-WHAM!"

A swift kick from Lan Fan send the round homunculus flying into the building, leaving behind a rather large hole. Shaking away dust, Gluttony peeked his head out, confused at the sudden attack. "Huh?" he said, looking at the figure of Lan Fan crouching a few feet away.

"Hiiiiii! How's it going?!"

Gluttony glanced upwards and saw Ling leaning casually against the roof on the building in front of him, sword hanging lazily off his shoulder. "I remember you!" Ling exclaimed, grinning playfully at the confused homunculus. "You were at the battle!"

Gluttony looked from Lan Fan to Ling, beady eyes blinking. "Who are you?" He asked meekly, looking slightly scared.

"You don't remember us?!" Ling asked in fake hurt voice. "Well that's okay I guess. It's like we're here for you."

"Huh?" Gluttony said, scratching his bald head.

"So big guy, where's your little friend at?" Ling asked, leaning in closer to Gluttony.

"You want Lust?" Gluttony asked confusedly.

"Bingo!" Ling replied, twirling his sword. "Now where is that blonde beauty of yours hiding?"

"You better tell us or else." Lan Fan ordered in a dangerous voice.

"But Lust is mine." Gluttony whined, making a move to run. He halted as a pair of kunai landed a mere inch from where his foot stood. He looked back at Lan Fan fearfully, who held another set of kunai ready to kill.

"Don't bother running." Lan Fan threatened. "I can sense your presence and I can follow it!"

Gluttony tilted his head, a large smile spreading across his face. "Follow? Me? THEN I'LL JUST EAT YOU NOW!" Gluttony growled, opening his jaws wide. Ling and Lan Fan froze, not expecting his mood to change so quickly.

"So you're able to detect his presence are you?"

Ling swiftly looked down, not expecting another intruder to join them. His jaw dropped as he made out King Bradley, the leader of Amerstris walking towards the two.

"Well that's quite the nuisance." Bradley remarked, drawing out his long sword. "Let's take care of it!" With inhuman speed, Bradley sprinted towards them. Ling's eyes grew wide when he realized Bradley was heading right towards the masked girl.

"LAN FAN! RUN!" he screamed, heart stopping in panic.

It was too late. All that could be seen was a flash of blood and the pieces of Lan Fan's broken mask hitting the ground as her bloodcurdling scream filled the air.

Panic seized the young prince as Lan Fan's body fell to the ground with a deadening thud.

"NO LAN FAN!"

Blood erupted from Lan Fan's arm as she fell, landing in a crumpled heap on the lower roof of a building. Her kunai clattered to the ground next to her, completely useless to her now.

Up above, King Bradley glanced at his sword as the tip fell to the ground. "Clever girl." He remarked, looking impressed. "You took a swipe at me with your kunai."

"Can I eat her now?!" Gluttony asked, mouth already drooling.

Bradley tossed the useless sword aside ungraciously. "Just make it quick."

"YIPPEEE!" Gluttony squealed, jumping up high and preparing to land on top of the dazed girl. Without warning, his happy grin was literally split in half by the edge of a sword wielded by Ling. Long gone was the playful prince who mere hours ago had been cracking jokes about Edward. No, that prince was now replaced by a cold-blooded ruler, eye's seeking blood.

Ling landed swiftly next to his fallen comrade, all thoughts of his country and Lust banished from his mind as he took in her miserable state. "Lan Fan! Please stay with me!" He begged, throwing her over his shoulders has gently as possible. Glancing up, he saw Bradley blocking his exit, sword banished threateningly at them.

"If you thought you could escape from me that easily, I'm afraid you'll find yourself surely mistaken!" Bradley exclaimed, dashing towards them like a bullet.

Swinging his own sword, Ling tried desperately to block Bradley's powerful blows, their swords flashing brightly as they clanged against one another. "I can't keep this up...not with Lan Fan injured like this." Ling's shifty eye's focused on a weak point, falling on the Fuhrer's eye patch. "Perfect."

With agility that only came from years of training, Ling jumped towards Bradley's left side, falling into this blind spot. The Fuhrer swung towards, him, but the prince parried, jumping to Bradley's blind spot once more. The two play this deadly game for several more turns, each not giving an inch.

"Mmm...I see your no stranger to combat." Bradley observed, his sword flying towards the young prince, who blocked it with ease and jumping behind the Fuhrer. Bradley narrowed his eyes, getting irritated at the boy's antics. "All this jumping around...he's trying to stay in my blind spot."

"Gluttony!" Bradley roared, calling his companion.

Fully recovered from Ling's blow, Gluttony ran at Ling, bringing his hands together into a giant fist and knocking him a powerful blow to the chest. Ling screamed in pain, as the punch send him flying into the window of a building next door.

As the dust cleared from the impact, Ling shakily got to his feet, knowing that time was of the essence. What he was not expecting was to have Bradley already standing over the exit with swords drawn. Gluttony peeked his head through the broken window, smiling maliciously at him also.

"Excellent. We should have some privacy in here." Bradley stated calmly, a creepy half smile on his mustached face. "If you don't mind I have some questions."

Ling clenched his teeth angrily, eyes glaring the Fuhrer warily. Nervous beads of sweat, dripped down, as he clutched Lan Fan's body protectively.

"First I like to know who you people are and why are you so interested in finding Lust?" Ling remained silent, eyes darting for a way to escape. "You're looking for an escape? Even now?" Bradley asked, watching the prince's movements. "You don't give up do you?"

Bradley's gaze focused on the girl he was carrying. "You might stand a fair chance at getting away if you'd only abandon the girl because she's just excess baggage at this point."

A deadly glint shined in Ling's eyes at these words. "Excess baggage?" he seethed, gazing falling on the Fuhrer's shoulders where the stars of his rank shone brightly. "I can see all those stars on your uniform. You're the ruler here. Fuhrer King Bradley if I'm mistaken." Ling said in a sneering voice, scowling at the Fuhrer. "A ruler's duty is to his people. Without them he is no king at all!"

Both rulers eyed each other, mutual dislike forming between them.

"King Bradley...you're no true king. Not now or ever!" Ling yelled, hatred filling his voice.

"Naive boy." Bradley remarked quietly. The smile that his face held vanished instantly, as fury crept into his features. "Don't you understand that there are no true kings in this world?!"

Behind Ling, Lan Fan dropped a light bomb, which rolled right in between the two rulers. Ling quickly closed his eyes as the bomb exploded, a brilliant bright light illuminating the room. Bradley and Gluttony yelled in pain as the light blinded them, allowing the two Xing teens to escape.

"That ought to hold him!" Ling remarked, running blindly towards the exit. "Judging by the draft, there's the exit." Ling observed, using his senses to find the door. As he ran the last couple feet, he heard swoosh sound and stopped in the nick of time as Bradley's sword stuck into wooden wall inches from Ling's face.

Ling gasped, turning back to look at the Fuhrer. He saw both King Bradley and Gluttony squatted down, hands covering their eyes.

"Nice try." Bradley remarked. "But your flash bomb didn't succeed in blinding this eye!"

Ling stared in horror as Bradley removed his hand, revealing the ouroborous sign looking at the prince from the Fuhrer's patched eye.

Rocks columns rose high in the air, blocking Scar's rampage. Edward crouched down, taking a small breather he waited for Scar to break through. He knew the rocks couldn't stop him. Nothing could get in the way of Scar's terrifying alchemy.

"Just you wait Scar." Ed hissed, wiping a trail of blood away from his eye. "You're going to pay for what you did to Winry's parents."

A second later, Edward saw the rocks crumble Scar pelting out of the dust cloud. Scowling, Ed clapped his hands to the ground, creating rock spikes aimed right at the approaching Ishvalan. Scar punched right through them, his red eyes aimed at Edward.

Panicking slightly, Edward ran backwards coming to a halt as the alley came to a dead end. "It's a dead end! Damn!" he jumped up, arm extending to grab a hold of a pipe line trailing the architecture. Looking similar to a squirrel trying to escape a hunting hound, Edward scrabbled up the pipe, Scar hot on his heels.

Edward gave a sigh of relief as he came to the top. However before he could reach out his arm, Scar slashed a hand across the pipeline, completely destroying it. A fearful look crossed Edward's face as the pipe began to fall, tilting right towards where Scar stood waiting.

"AAAAHHHHHHHHH!" Edward screamed, eyes darting fearfully down to Scar, who stood with his hands ready to kill.

Out of nowhere, a giant rock hand formed over Scar, catching Edward at the last moment. Edward grunted painfully, as he land ungracefully on his back. "Ow!" Ed moaned, crawling to the edge to peek down at Scar. He saw Alphonse standing a few feet away, hand still on the ground from where he had performed alchemy to save his brother.

Edward gave his brother a thumbs up, tears of gratitude raining from his eyes. "Nice one brother! Appreciate it!"

Alphonse glared at his older sibling sternly. "We need to get out of here now!"

"Wha?" Edward glanced to where his brother was indicating and noticed two military officers crouched down in a connecting alley, watching the battle with loaded guns. "Shit!" Ed cursed, quickly jumping off the rock hand and running at Scar.

In the alley, one soldier peeked out, watching the brother fight warily. "Permission to fire, sir!" He asked, holding his gun close to him.

"Not yet." the senior officer answered, eyes watching the battle closely.

"Why the hell not!?" His partner replied, voice rising as the battle they watched got closer to them. They watch Alphonse run past swiftly, dodging Scar's attacks. Suddenly, a wave of energy burst from the alley, completely knocking the men against the brick wall of the alley.

Scar stood still, an Elric brother blocking both his paths of escape. Alphonse stood firmly over him, arms raised in defensive stance. Behind him, he could hear the heavy breathing the older brother, who glared at him with challenging eyes.

Alphonse glanced towards the sky, red orbs narrowing. "Ling hasn't fired the signal yet." He observed, worry overwhelming his thoughts. "And brother's getting tired...I have to buy us some time!" He turned to Scar, his voice becoming firm.

"Scar! You say you believe that Alchemists have defied God. Isn't that hypocritical?" Alphonse asked, watching the Ishvalan closely. "You use alchemy just like we do!"

Scar's red eyes glanced up Alphonse, his expression unreadable. "I explained it when we met in East City." He answered coldly. "It's balance. When there are creators, there must also be a destroyer."

"That's a lie!" Alphonse argued, anger entering his usually gentle voice as he remembered Nina. "You're using the name of your god to justify murder. Revenge is all you care about!" Scar remained silent, listening to the young boy's words. "When you killed Shou Tucker and Nina..." Alphonse spoke, voice filling with grief. "I suppose you think you were doing God's work then too?!"

"Interesting." Scar muttered, glancing away from the suit of armor. "You too saw that abomination as well, did you?" His gaze turned to Edward, red eye's filled with hatred. "Alchemy created that tragic creature! So that's the science you would spend the rest of your lives falling?!" He roared, looking back at Alphonse.

Both Ed and Alphonse gaped, memories of that night flooding their minds.

"Look at your brother!" Shou Tucker exclaimed manically. "He's the result of messing around with somebody's life!"

Scar watched their horrified reactions silently. "That chimera was made because a man thought he could create when creation is the prophet of God alone." Scar explained solemnly.

Alphonse gasped, the memories of Nina becoming too much. Ed, however, glared up at Scar, the fire in his eyes growing fiercer.

"Maybe you're right." Edward growled, getting back into a fighting stance. "But why did you have to kill her?! You stole whatever little life she had left!"

Scar narrowed his eyes at Ed, his frown growing mocking. "Foolish as you are. You must still have known that chimera could have never returned to her human state." Edward's pupils grew small, anger leaving his features at these words. "She would have lived out her life as a lab specimen. Treated as a test subject...never again as a human being."

A silence fell over the two Elric brothers, both realizing the horrific truth in his words.

"He's right." Alphonse thought, hands shaking as sorrow overwhelmed him. "Even back then we knew Nina would be sent to a laboratory...we knew good and well what would happen to her..."

"We didn't want to think about it...we knew there was no hope..." Edward murmured, golden eyes glazing over. "...No hope..." Memories flooded him, not just of Nina, but of another girl...

"Winry..." Pictures flashed in Edwards mind...images of Nina hugging on to Napoleon...then of Winry holding up Den as a puppy, her blue eyes dancing with joy...

"Open your eyes Fullmetal! That thing may look like Winry but it's nothing but a monster that needs to be destroyed for good!" Roy Mustang's voice yelled out.

"What if Winry really is gone?" Alphonse wailing filling Ed's thoughts. "What if it's too late to save her?!"

"Winry? She's gone Edward!" Lust hissed, claws gleaming in deadly. "I'm the only thing that's left!"

"Is this it?" Edward thought sorrowfully. "Is it all over? Were we just kidding ourselves to begin with? Could it be Winry's situation is just as hopeless as Nina's was? Are we just being selfish by turning a blind eye to the truth...was Winry doomed the second Lust entered her body..." Ed's eyes slid over to his brother, who stood in a fighting stance in front of Scar. "Then what does that say about my brother, who doesn't even have a body to begin with? Is his a lost cause as well...should he just give up...?"

"NO!" Edward shouted, his automail fist slamming into a nearby wall.

Scar and Alphonse glanced at him in surprise, shocked by the sudden outburst. Ed stood heaving, golden eyes blazing with fury as he glared at Scar, a new revolution growing within him.

"You're wrong! I refuse to believe that Nina didn't have a chance! No matter how hopeless the situation is there's always a way out! You just have to move forward and find it! You took Nina's chance Scar!"

The hands at his side shook as Edward continued, "Even if it's just a slim chance in hell of making things right, I'll take it. It least one person can do."

Alphonse knew his brother was no longer just talking about Nina. "Brother..."

"It's true Scar...State Alchemists have made some serious mistakes." Edward spoke softly, his eyes hardening as they glared at Scar. "But despite what you think, that doesn't make what you're doing right and we can't let you continue!" As he spoke, his voice steadily grew angrier, increasing in volume. "You're so self-righteous...but do you remember two Amestris doctors named Rockbell!?"

Scar's eyes narrowed slightly at those words. Edward continued, his voice dripping with venom.

"The order came down to end the uprising and exterminate Ishaval but that didn't stop them. They kept right on helping your people!" Edward growled, glaring up at Scar.

"Wait Brother!" he faintly heard Al call out. Edward didn't care. He wanted Scar to hear his sins and suffer for his actions.

"Don't you remember them?" Edward continued, fury taking control of him and motivating his empowering his next words. "Those doctors saved your life! AND YOU KILLED THEM!"

A dead silence follow, broken only by Alphonse.

"BROTHER!" Al called out, pointing into the alley next to them.

Edward blinked, eyes darting quickly to his right. There standing a few feet away, stood Winry, her blues eyes wide and staring at Edward in shock. Ed's face fell, his heart thumping hard in his chest as he realized what he had just done.

Ember Sunblaze: DON'T KILL ME! I had to stop at that part! If not you would have had a 70 page chapter to deal with! Anyways…please review and tell me how you liked the chapter! You all know how much I love hearing from you

Sooooooo…..REVIEW! REVIEW! REVIEW! PLEASE?