Ember Sunblaze: So I'm not quite making my new year deadline for finishing this fanfiction before 2019, but it's getting close...only one more chapter left (possibly, I may make it a two parter). It's a long journey but one I'm happy to complete. Please enjoy!
Of Lust and Wrenches
Chapter 25: The Night Battle
What is going on? Roy once again thought to himself as he hovered near the locked gates of headquarters, Riza beside him. Ever since the announcement from Fuhrer Bradley about a disturbance that occurred inside, the guests of the party had been told to stay within the proximity. The guests had quickly become curious, discussing amongst themselves what kind of odd ball conspiracy was afloat. Most of their ideas because more absurd as the night and the alcohol wore on. Roy knew it had to concern Fullmetal, who had yet to make an appearance ever since Lust's show. He only hoped whatever occurred wasn't going to cost Edward his life, or worst, his state alchemist position.
"The Fuhrer's returning." Riza whispered, pointing to the stage. Roy turned, noticing Bradley was being tailed by one of the Drachma ambassadors. The man was smaller than General Nickolas, however the colonel could make out the catchphrase scowl that almost all the men of the North wore. The man's face was flushed with anger and he could see him trying to talk to the Fuhrer who in turned motioned for him to stay calm, before walking up the steps to the stage microphone. Roy could only guess what was upsetting the foreign based on his missing companion.
"I apologize again for the disruption to our wonderful Gala." The Fuhrer began, addressing the crowd. "Going forward, it is now safe to exit the grounds. Though for those people returning home down Market Street, I would advise going a different route. There has been a bad accident, blocking the road way. Nothing to worry about. It is getting cleaned up as I speak. Again thank you all for attending, I hope you all had a wonderful night!" With that he bowed out, as the rest of the guests cheered merrily as they all met with their partners to exit together.
"Finally!" Roy muttered, ready to investigate what was the commotion was all about. He made to follow the rest of the guest, but paused, suddenly aware he was alone. He turned to see Riza had not moved. She smiled at him gently, and Roy felt his insides turn uneasily. Behind her, he could see the the Fuhrer looking their way. Roy wanted to glare, but before he could muster up the anger, he felt Riza owner eyes meeting his. They were all it took for him to turn away, grinding his teeth with frustration.
He watched as Riza walked over to Bradley, quietly conversing with him. It may had been his imagination, but Roy thought he looked pleased. It struck Roy that perhaps Riza was used for more than being a hostage tonight.
"I'm no worse than Fullmetal." Roy muttered to himself darkly, before silently walking out. It would do Riza no good to see him get mad. Unfortunately for him, his night was going to get even worse as he soon discovered…
"What….the hell….?" Roy gasped, clutching the wall of the building for support. He had just made his way out of headquarters and arrived at the alley where he had parked the car only to find...there was no car. Instead he only saw a pair of black skid marks, and some tipped over garbage cans. "I'm going to kill them" He growled, pulling at his alchemy gloves murderously, knowing full well which group of irresponsible teens were behind this mess.
Knowing that getting angry right now would do no good, he turned to prepare himself for a plan B. However he suddenly realized there was a strange weight in his pocket he hadn't noticed before. Reaching in, he pulled out a new set of car keys. He instinctively recognized them as Riza's. He chuckled to himself. "Always one step ahead I see. Somehow she always knows what kind of predicaments I find myself in." He gave one last glance at headquarters, the ominous building seeming to mock him. "I'll be back...I promise." Roy muttered, making his way to look for Riza's vehicle.
About an hour later, Roy found himself parked in front of his cabin, next to his broken down vehicle. The bullet marks and flat tires only confirmed his earlier suspicions. Sighing, he locked up Riza's car, making his way up the pathway. The cabin here was the only relic left from his parents. Apparently his father had had suspicions about the government for ages, and had wanted a retreat for his family to run off to incase the country ran itself to pieces. Guess he wasn't too far from the truth, Roy thought bitterly, noticing the lights on through the windows.
"Well let's get this over with." Roy grumbled, pushing the door open with enough force for it to slam against the wall. "Someone has a lot of explaining to do!" Roy thundered loudly, crossing his arms. The group of boys sitting at the table all looked up in unison. Ling sat with a face half stuffed full of food, looking much better after his earlier ordeal. Edward and Alphonse glanced at each other, before giving nervous smiles.
"Oh Colonel, what a surprise!" Ling greeted him through a mouth full of food.
Alphonse stood up clapping his hands together. "Colonel we have good news! Edward and I fixed your room!" He explained, pointing to the newly furnished roof. "Aren't you pleased?" The Colonel's scowl remained intact. Edward sighed, getting up also.
"Look I'm sorry about the car. But we really had no choice. We were being chased by the Fuhrer…."
Roy clutched the bridge of his nose, trying to not lose it completely. "So I heard...any way you three can go into more details about that? Hmm?" Roy seethed. Edward and Alphonse glanced at each other questionly.
"Sir, what exactly did you hear?" Alphonse asked cautiously.
"On my way over, I stopped to talk with a few soldiers that were cleaning up the roads after the chase. They clued me in on what they were told happened in headquarters. Something along of the lines of a Xingese terrorist kidnapping a state alchemist? I assume that would be you?"
"Bingo!" Ling exclaimed, taking a giant bite from a chicken leg. A vein popped in Roy's head.
"What has me wondering is why the Fuhrer would claim a Xingese terrorist had attacked him?" Roy questioned slowly, hands balling into a fist as Ling continued to eat happily. "Especially when the only Xing person I know was supposed to be watching the car…"
"Must had been a mistake. You know what they say, all Xing people look alike don't we?!" Ling joked, chewing on the meat and completely oblivious to the red aura surrounding the Colonel.
"Are you an idiot!?" Roy yelled, slamming his palms on top the wooden table. "Why the hell would you even fathom the idea of defeating the Fuhrer? And you!" Roy growled, pointing a finger at Edward. "Did you know that this was going to happen?!"
"Uhh, well…" Edward murmured not meeting his gaze. Alphonse jumped in.
"We knew Ling wanted revenge, and that it was a bad idea. But there's really nothing we could have done to stop him. Besides with the Fuhrer being the way he is, wouldn't it be a good thing if Ling succeeded?"
"You all are idiots if you think someone like him could ever defeat the Fuhrer! We are talking about super human swordmaster, and that's not even considering him being an overpowered homunculus!" Roy exclaimed, pulling a chicken leg out of Lings mouth forcefully.
"Hey!" Ling complained angrily, either from the comment or the food being taken away was anyone's guess.
"Idiots don't get to mooch food!" Roy rebuked, throwing the chicken out the window. "Now is there anything else you three are hiding from me!? Like who was the idiot who ruined my car!?"
"That would be me."
All heads turned to see Lust entering the room, clad in a simple button up white blouse and cargo pants. Upon Edward's request, she had changed out of her evening gown, finding clothes left in one of the spare rooms. By the size, she assumed they had been past disguises for Lieutenant Hawkeye. She glared at the Colonel, crossing her arms. "You have a problem with my driving too?"
Roy gaped momentarily before instantly getting into a fighting stance. "I have a problem with a lot more than your driving!" He growled, hand raised to inflict flames at a moment's notice. Lust followed suit, nails raking out instantly. Edward and Alphonse quickly jumped in between the two, with Edward facing Lust and Alphonse blocking any possible flames from the colonel.
"Hold it!"
"Please don't!"
"You have 10 seconds to explain yourselves!" Roy demanded, not keeping his eyes off of her. "Why the hell did you bring her here!?"
"We couldn't leave her behind!" Edward tried to explain, not moving from spot. "The homunculi know about Winry! Neither of them are safe!"
"And you think we're safe?" Roy asked furiously. "Have you forgotten she tried to kill us just a few days ago?!"
"Technically, the only one I wanted to kill was you." Lust chirped in.
"Lust!" Winry reproached her.
"I just wanted to make sure he gets his facts straight."
"Not helping!" Edward hissed at her.
Alphonse quickly tried to intervene. "Sir I know this looks bad, but Lust has done some good. You said so yourself that Mrs. Hughe saw Lust save Elicia and she saved Ling's life tonight from the Fuhrer!"
Roy rubbed his head, fighting back a throbbing headache. First Riza and his team and now this was going on? "You boys have completely lost your minds if you think she can be trusted! I understand your friend is in that body, but so. is. Lust! Don't forget she's the reason why Ms. Rockbell is in there in the first place and the reason why Havoc is paralyzed! She is dangerous! She isn't some stray cat to take in. What you've bought is a lioness ready to kill if we aren't careful!"
"Colonel I know she's made bad choices, but she saved Ling's life! That has to mean something!" Alphonse pleaded. Roy frowned up solemnly at the suit of armor. "Alphonse, we can't trust her based on that. She may of saved one life, but can that really make up for the many others she's probably taken?"
"What about Winry?" Alphonse argued. "She's never hurt anyone? Does that mean we don't help her?!"
There was a tense silence. Edward glanced at his brother, concerned as the armor shook with emotion. "I can't abandon Winry! Not like I did before!" The Colonel stood unsure of what to say, not used to dealing with the younger Elric brother.
Lust placed a hand on Edward's shoulder, signaling for him to let her through. Edward hesitated, but allowed her to walk past him. Alphonse turned, shocked as Lust walked right past him, stopping in front of Mustang. They faced each other, like a wolf and panther weighing each other up before Lust spoke. "What the boys say is true. At the moment I'm on the run from my siblings. Helping a human has put me in a tight spot with the homunculi."
Roy gazed darkened. "So what? Does this mean you're switching sides now?" He asked, arms crossing at his chest. "Forgive me if I find that hard to believe." Lust narrowed her eyes but said nothing.
Edward stepped up to stand beside her. "Look Colonel. I know this is a tough call, but she's in danger and that means Winry is too. We can't let the homunculi get them."
Roy faced Edward and both men sized each other up. Both knew that neither one was going to back down. The Colonel sighed. "So be it, however is she stays, it's on my terms." He said, pushing past Edward and confronting Lust and grabbing her arm. "If you truly have switched over to our side, you wouldn't mind telling us exactly what you homunculi are up to!"
Lust snatched her arm away in disgust. "Nice try, Mustang. I may not be on good terms with the homunculi, but I'm still one of them. I refuse to give any of their secrets away."
"Very well then." Roy grabbed her wrists tightly, fingers in snapping position. " As of now, you're going under my custody. Until we know you're safe, you'll be locked up tight and under surveillance."
"Hey!"
"Colonel What are you doing?!"
"Boys we have no choice." The Colonel said, ignoring their shouts of dismay. "This is about more than keeping your friend safe. This our country we're talking about…" As Roy talked, he pulled a rather displeased Lust towards the room exit. However, as he turned to face away from the Elric brothers, he found himself dangerously close to a sword point. Ling stood in the entryway, blocking his path.
"Colonel, I'll have to ask you to leave her here. If anyone is taking her it will be me." Ling said, sword still pointing at the Colonel. Edward and Alphonse gaped.
"What are you saying Ling?" Alphonse asked, voice laced with apprehension.
"I'm saying that I came to this country for one purpose, to obtain immortality." Ling explained, tone darkening as he faced the Amestrians. "Though I don't have the stone, I can imagine bringing back an homunculi would be just as sufficient. With our alchemist I'm imagine we may be able to duplicate their case."
"You can't be serious." Edward exclaimed, flaring up. "Ling you can't take her to Xing. Haven't you forgotten she saved your life back there!?"
Ling sheathed his sword, looking at his friend. "Though I am grateful for the gesture, I cannot forget my mission. Originally I had planned on taking the stones from Gluttony and then the Fuhrer. However, both times Lust took those chances away from me. It's only right I get reimbursed for what was taken."
"You would have been killed by the Fuhrer if she didn't intervene!" Edward argued. Ling turned away.
"Dying would be better than walking back to my kingdom empty handed." Ling replied solemnly. "That's why I can't let the Colonel take her for himself!"
"You're both nuts if you think I'm going to let you do what you want with her." Edward said, getting in front of Lust. Ling raised an eyebrow.
"Well Edward what are your plans for her? The homunculi aren't going to just let her walk around and do as she pleases. Sooner or later they are going to track her down. Can you really focus on getting you and your brother's bodies back with that type of baggage?"
Edward glanced down, hands clenching at his side as his brother looked on worriedly. "It doesn't matter. Al and I both agreed we would help our friend. Somehow I'll find a way to get both my brother and Winry's body back. If we have to deal with some drawbacks then so be it."
"It's more than just a few drawbacks Fullmetal! This person is wanted by the government, the Fuhrer himself!" Mustang warned, turning to him. "She's not going to be someone you can just walk around with. It's better to let me deal with her."
"Yeah so you can torture her for information." Edward replied with a glare his way. The three men continued to argue, voices rising drown each other as Alphonse tried to mediate between the three. Lust looked on boredly, sighing wearily as she leaned against the wall to watch the slaughter.
"Men really are idiots."
"I can't believe they're fighting like this." Winry complained watching them hopelessly. "I thought they were supposed to be on the same side."
"It's not that surprising. Men always fight for the things that benefit them the most. Both Mustang and Ling gain upper hands with our information and Fullmetal….well he gets a chance to go to bed with you again." Lust teased, smirking as she felt Winry heat up in embarrassment.
"That's not funny!" Winry countered, blushing. "This is serious Lust. I don't want to see them go against each other like this. Maybe it would be better if I talked with them. They may trust us more. It's not like I can share any of the homunculi's secrets since I really don't know what you all are planning."
"That would make things even worse."
"What do you mean?"
"Think about it. As long as I'm in control, they think you're just a prisoner, not able to free yourself. If you become free and didn't give them information they want your insteadly labeled as a traitor. Doing it this way makes me seem like the only bad guy here. Right now, their alliance with you is the only thing keeping us at bay here. Besides, it's not easy to have your allies distrust you. No reason for you to go through that too."
"Lust…" Winry felt a surge of warmth for the homunculus. Despite everything, Lust had was still looking out for her. Even though it's was because of her that Lust had to betray her own family. "You don't deserve this. You were the one who saved Ling. You jeopardized everything to help one of my friends…."
"I did what I did to get back at Wrath." Lust stated quietly. "Nothing more. It's him finding out about us that brought us where we're at now. Though now I'm starting to think even that was a bad idea." She finished, watching the fight escalate.
"You're wrong. You did it to help us." Winry whispered to herself. It's true that Lust had done bad things in her past but so had a lot of people. Soldiers and alchemist who had slaughtered thousands over the years. How could any of them judge?
"That's enough…" Winry's voice unexpected escaped her body's lips. She whipped her head up, blue eyes blazing furiously as the men's fighting continued. "I SAID THAT'S ENOUGH!" She screamed, freezing everyone in the room. Slowly their heads turned in her direction.
"Winry?" Edward asked, astonished as he took a step towards her. To his surprise, she shuffled backwards her angry gaze falling onto him.
"How dare you all fight over us like that?!" Winry inquired, her words being thrown like daggers. "Don't Lust and I have a choice about what happens to us going forward? Mr. Mustang, Lust may have done bad things in the past but tonight she saved the life of both Edward and Ling! You should at least give her a chance to show she can change!"The Colonel blinked, taken aback by the young girl's fury.
She then turned to Ling, who quickly took a step back as the blonde cornered him like a lioness. " And Ling! You are the most ungrateful, little spoiled prince I have ever met. First you risk your life to fight a dangerous homunculi after Lan Fan literally saved your life so you wouldn't have to die from those very swords! Then another person comes out to save you and how do you thank her?! By saying your going to drag her to god knows where just to be your little prize?! What kind of King will you be if you treat people that way!?"
"And Edward!" Winry finally turning to him. The alchemist couldn't help but shiver as her blue gaze met with his. He realized that this was the first time since that night that they had exactly faced each other. The first time since then that he had faced Winry. He felt his heart beating fast, his arm instinctively wanting to reach out for her. Instead he waited, waiting for her to speak. Winry's eyes blazing with determination, seemed to waver as they both looked at each other. "Edward…I" she began again, but found the words were getting harder and harder to come out. "We can't go with you. I know you want to protect us. But you and Alphonse have your own battles to fight. With the homunculi after us, we'll only hinder your search for your bodies. I'm sorry." She finished, turning away. "You have to let us go."
"Winry I…" Edward said before getting cut off by the Colonel. Though his tone seemed to soften as he looked about the young girl, there was still a tone of demand as he addressed her.
"I'm afraid that's impossible." Mustang explained, stepping in between the two lovers. "Miss Rockbell, let me say I do apologize for our earlier dispute. I can understand how distressing this situation can be for you. But you must try to understand how we cannot just let you do as you choose." He ignored the angry glare shot his way by Edward. "Make no mistake that I do want to assist you. However, for that to happen, we do need a sense cooperation. We have no idea what scale of destruction we are dealing with here. Any information you share with us could be the key to preventing anyone else from from suffering"
Winry met the Colonel's gaze, her stance unwavering as she replied. "I understand. I want to help also. But I'm afraid I don't have the information you seek. I also can't force Lust to share what she knows. That is her decision alone."
"Miss Rockbell, please. I understand you are under very tough circumstances. But you are the only one amongst us who has had any extended contact with the homunculi! You have to know something of great value to us." The Colonel continued to urge.
"Winry, don't do this!" Lust hissed. "Let me back to the surface!"
Winry closed her eyes, ignoring the words of her struggling companion. "I'm sorry. I'm really sorry, but I can't help you. I understand both countries are in danger," She continued, glancing from Mustang to Ling. "And you are all trying to do what is best. But I'm just as lost and confused about the world of the homunculi as you are. And I cannot stand here and allow anyone to hurt Lust to get that information!"
Winry attempted a fighting stance, her whole body shivering at the thought of going against her friends. But she couldn't let them hurt Lust. She had risked everything to protect Winry's friends. Winry couldn't let Lust's sacrifice be trampled on. Whether she liked it or not, Lust had become her friend.
"I would think twice about the path you are choosing." Ling's voice cut through the shadows. He walked up to stand beside Edward solemnly. "I said this before when you chose to help Gluttony the other day and I will say it again. You're walking a very dangerous line. By protecting everyone, you're just making yourself more vulnerable." He crossed his arms over his chest, observing her. "By protecting that woman, you're just sealing your own fate of never having your freedom. Is that something you're willing to lose?"
The prince turned to Edward, glaring at him. "Is that something you're willing to let her do?"
Edward and him locked gazes, unwritten words passing between them. Edward's fist tightened at his side before he turned away to look at Winry, wondering what she would decide. Her hands twisted together at her chest, a million emotions seeming to run through her small frame. "Winry?" He asked softly, taking a step towards her. She looked up at him, blue eyes swimming with helpless tears.
"It's true I want to be free….I want to so bad it hurts. I want to go home. I want to be with Granny. I want to do all the things I dreamt about doing with my life. But all the things I want, all the things I desire. I can't...no... I won't get it if it's at the expense of someone's life! That can't be wrong." Winry's thoughts turned to her parents, saving the lives of Ishvalan people, despite all of the hardships. "It can't be wrong to want to save everyone, can it?" She asked quietly, all the vigor from before falling into one desperate question.
She felt a touch on top of her head. Her eyes gazed upward to see Edward, smiling down at her. "Is that what you really want?" She bobbed her head quietly, not trusting herself to speak. "Then we'll do it. We'll save everyone, Lust included." Her face tilted up, Edward's warm gazing down upon her fondly. "I made a promise back at the party didn't I? I won't let both of you down. I promise that."
A wave of relief washed over Winry. She leaned into Edward's chest, resting her forehead against his frame. Edward hesitated, before resting his hands on her shoulders in a sad attempt for a hug. His ear's reddened as he heard the men behind him.
"Awwww" Alphonse sighed cooed, as the panda popped out of his armor to snicker.
"Ahem." The Colonel coughed, causing the two teens to instantly break apart, blushing. Ling frowned quietly in the background, his expression unreadable. Roy stepped in between them, knowing he had lost this battle for now. He looked down at Winry, who after her earlier outburst seemed reluctant to meet his gaze. It's no wonder the Fullmetal is attracted to her, they're both ridiculously stubborn.
"As of now, shall we draw a truce?" The Colonel asked, holding his hand out to Winry. "For now I won't pester you for information. However, in the future, if things start to get dicey there will come a moment when you and your...companion will have to choose a side. I have people I want to protect too. Do we have a deal?" Winry smiled brightly, reaching her hand out. Roy glanced down at it, suddenly getting suspicious.
"You are positive Lust is safe?" Roy asked, his hand hesitating to go near hers. "She's not going to try to kill me now is she?"
"Of course not!" Winry answered quickly. "Isn't that right Lust?"
A dead silence followed on her end. Edward, Alphonse and Roy glanced at each other, then back at the blonde as the silence stretched out longer. Small sweat beads formed on her forehead. Winry's smiled faltered, stretching out a little bit too wide. "She said of course!"
All three of them fell to the ground, with Roy slapping her hand away like a venomous snake. "THAT WASN'T CONVINCING!"
"Oh come on stop being such baby! What's wrong? Is the big, bad Mustang scared of a girl?" Edward teased, fox like grin forming.
"You wake up in a hospital bed with those claws around your neck and you tell me not to be worried!"
"He's already done a lot more with those claws…" Ling muttered quietly in the background. Edward's head swiveled in his direction, blush illuminating his face. Alphones' interest peaked.
"What was that?" The suit of armor asked innocently.
"It's nothing!" Edward shot, hair rising. Mustang broke into a haughty sneer.
"Oh is little Fullmetal not sharing some details with his comrades. Please do tell…." He pushed, facing coming close to the alchemist like a wolf about to pounce on its prey. Like a cornered cat, Edward fought back. Not backing down.
"None of your business, you pervy old man!"
"Old!? You have some nerve!"
"Brother! Are you hiding something!?"
"Can you all just get off my back!?"
"Oh boys…." Winry sighed with a smile. It was good to see they were back to their old selves. She was glad she could get through to them. Especially to Edward, she thought with a pleasant blush. But something still didn't feel right. Lust had been silent for a while. She felt uneasiness swirling with in, as if the homunculi within was distracted.
"Lust? What's wrong?" Winry asked, concerned. "If you're bothered, we can switch you know. I already said my piece to them."
Silence followed this statement. Getting worried, Winry moved to the far side of the room, away from the still bickering men. "Lust?"
"Why…..Why would you say all that?" Lust asked quietly, voice barely a whispered. A sigh of relief escaped Winry.
"Thank goodness. I was getting worried for a second…."
"Answer my question! Why in the world you sprout such delusional nonsense like that!?" Lust screamed, voice rising anger. "I told you to let me handle it! Don't you even realize how dangerous that was!? They could had easily turned against you! Why would you….why would say all that?" Lust finished, unable to sprout out her true feelings. What would she say all that about her?
"Because it wasn't right." Winry answered quietly. "Each person in this room as had a dark past, has made mistakes, has hurt others. I know they have a right to distrust us. But even so, I couldn't let them have their way like that. Not after everything you've lost tonight. I love my friends dearly, but even so. I can't let my love for them stop me from doing what's right."
How do you know if you are right? Lust wanted to ask, feeling like she was drowning in her own doubts. She still didn't understand why Winry would defend her. They may be stuck together, but that didn't mean they were on the same side? "Winry, despite what illusions you may have of me, you and I share vastly different ideals." Lust explained, "You are and always will be someone who puts everyone else's needs before your own. I'm not like that. I kick and claw my way to get whatever I need, no matter the consequences." She paused, making her point clear. "Even at the expense of someone's life."
"I already know that about you." Winry replied softly.
"Then you understand that if the opportunity comes and this body can no longer contain two souls... If it comes to a battle of wills, I'm going to fight." Lust waited for Winry's reply, but the young girl was silent. Lust continued, finding it hard to keep her voice steady. Why was this this girl unnerving her so? "You shouldn't stick up for me. Because you never know when the day will come when we will be enemies again."
"Pfft!" Winry who had been silent, let out a small giggle. Lust glared, fury running through her veins. Why was this girl laughing? Didn't she realize how serious this was? How serious she was being? "GOD DAMN IT WHAT IS YOUR PROBLEM!?"
"I'm sorry, Lust. But you just sounded so solemn just now." Winry replied, smiling. "I understand your concern. It's not like what you described hasn't occurred to me before. I assume everything, even this body has its limit. I know that day will eventually come where we may have to go against each other again. To tell you the truth, I'm not sure what I will do when that day comes." Winry held her hand to her chest, feeling where she knew Lust lay hidden. "But that uncertainty, I can't let it drown out the memories we have of each other. Whether you choose to believe it or not, you're not a monster."
Memories of Lust teaching Lust and Greed how to fight, of Lust saving Gluttony from the train wreck and their first battle together in Creta flashed through her mind…
"I've seen you care for your siblings."
She then remembered Lust's interactions saving Elicia and then Ling's life.
"You've helped people."
Finally, the memory of Lust and Winry's girls' night out and then of her first night with Edward entered her mind, making her heart swell.
"And you taught me how to go after the things I love."
"I know eventually we may become enemies again." Winry finished, words filled with conviction. "But I don't want that to stop us from being friends now."
Lust didn't know what to say. This girl made no sense at all, her words doing nothing but causing her gut to twist painfully. So why did she feel so relieved? I must be going insane. Lust thought to herself, smiling at the thought. Well as long as the girl understands, there was no reason to dwell on topic.
"You're a very odd girl, you do know that?"
Winry smiled, shrugging. "Well, you're not really normal either."
"No….I guess not, am I?" The two girls fell into a contented silence, an understanding seeming to grow between them. Now more than ever they knew they were together in this journey, despite where it would take them and where it would end. Their thoughts were interrupted by a sudden question from the Xing Prince.
"So what are we going to do about her?" Ling's voice cut across the room like a sharp knife. "If the homunculi are after her, we only have limited amount of time before someone tracks her here. It's not like this place is a secret anymore."
The three Amestrians glanced at each other, the question hanging like a thick fog in the room. Mustang was the first to speak. "I can try to keep her in various places around the city, but with my team disbanded, it's going to be hard to keep surveillance on her. Plus I'm sure the Fuhrer is going to keep a close eye on us from here on out."
"Does the Fuhrer know you're here?" Alphonse asked.
"I'm sure he suspects something, but he knew I was at the party the whole time with the Lieutenant."
"Why would he let you and the Lieutenant be together?" Edward asked, surprised. "I thought she was being their hostage?"
The Colonel frowned. He had asked himself the same question several times when he was with the Lieutenant. Why did he allow her near him? Was it to keep him at the party and away from fighting? If they were worried about him being caught up in their affairs, why didn't they just kill him like they did Hughes? "I'm not sure." He answered, glancing at Winry, who was watching curiously. Deep down in that body, he knew Lust waited, knowing all the answers to these questions. Let her hide, he'll find them out on his own.
"What about we bring Winry back to Resembool?!" Alphonse suggested brightly. "Then you can see Granny again! I'm sure she's been worried sick about you."
"Oh I would love to see Granny again!" Winry squealed, clasping her hands together excitedly. Her face fell, a sudden thought occuring. "But what if the homunculi track me there? I don't want to get Granny involved too." A sullen silence befell the room.
"She could come to Xing with me." Ling suddenly suggested. Edward bristled, glaring at his friend.
"I already told you Ling she's not…."
"I understand Edward, but hear me out." Ling said, halting him. "Think about the predicament we're in. Both Winry and I are wanted by this government. Obviously, the safest bet of not getting caught is to cross the border. The farther we are, the more difficult it will be for us to be tracked." The prince placed his hand over his chest, speaking sincerely. "It's true I hope to gain something by bringing proof of immortality back with me. But doesn't it matter most that she is safe and guarded? I can promise you in Xing she will be taken care of and treated like a prize."
Edward glared, hands tightening at his side. "Can you assure me she'll be safe?"
"I give you my word as future Emperor of Xing. I won't let anyone hurt her." Ling promised, bowing his head. Edward watched quietly, before he turned to Winry. Winry felt her heart beating fast, his hardened gaze softening as they fell on her.
"It's up to you. What do you think?"
"Going to Xing?" Winry contemplated the choice. Truthfully she didn't want to leave Edward, not when they had just be reunited. She shook her head, banishing away those selfish thoughts. She couldn't endanger them. But even so… traveling to Xing? She had never been so far away from home. She turned to Lust.
Lust mulled their options, thinking carefully. "What the prince says is true. We would be safer away from Amestris. My kind has never traveled that far East before. With our army now low, I doubt my father would risk sending any of the siblings out to such a far destination." Though I wouldn't put it past him to try a different route. Lust thought darkly, thinking of how he had many times used humans baited with the power of the philosopher's stone to do his bidding. Deciding it would be best not to worry the girl, she instead asked. "Do you trust this Ling character?"
"Ling's my friend." Winry answered honestly. "Though he may be odd at times, I still believe he wouldn't let anything happen to us."
"Fine. Then I have no objections." Lust replied. She felt a sense of foreboding, but knew this would probably be the safest course for them. If they needed to back track, they could easily escape to return.
"Okay." Winry agreed, speaking out loud. "Lust and I agree to go with Ling to Xing."
Her words rang clear, sparking a wave of tension in the room. Ling stood up, grabbing his weapon. "Then it's decided, we should leave tonight. Before they catch our trail."
"What about Lan Fan!?" Alphonse asked, knowing she was still in no condition to travel. She was still bedridden at the doctor's small apartment.
Ling's hand seemed to tightened around his weapon momentarily. "I've word from her grandfather he will arrive soon. He'll be able to bring her back to Xing safely." He turned away, stepping out of the room to prepare.
Alphonse turned to Winry, worry still evident as he asked, "Are you sure you're okay with this? Xing is awfully far away." Winry smiled, patting his armor affectionately.
"Don't worry about me! I'll be fine. Remember I'm not going to be completely alone." Winry commented, thinking of Lust. She glanced towards Edward, who stood quietly conversing with the Colonel. Neither of them seem pleased.
"You can't expect him to be happy."
"I know." Winry frowned, feeling uncertain of her decision. She felt Lust grow quiet and she wondered if she was having second thoughts also.
The homunculus suddenly seemed hesitate as she said, "If you have anything you want to say to him now, would be the time."
Winry felt her heart twist painfully. She was hiding something, something dark and dangerous. "If we leave tonight, will this be the last time I see my friends?"
"I can't make any promises about that Winry."
"Lust…." Winry urged, heart feeling heavy as she pleaded. "Is there really nothing else we can do to help? I know you can if you chose to."
Lust turned away from her, wanting to hide away from Winry and her troubles. "I can't. My family has spent too many years preparing for this. I won't be the one to betray them."
Winry sighed, knowing it was futile. Despite everything, Lust was still looking out for her siblings. Winry could tell a deep part of her was still hoping she could return. Maybe after a while, Lust would change her mind. As for now, the wound was too fresh to mess with. Feeling down, she failed to notice Edward staring at her, his talk with the Colonel wrapped up. He tilted his head, a silent invite for her to follow him outside.
After the tension of the last few hours, the cool night air felt like heaven as they stepped out. Unlike at the party, the stars out here were easily visible, reminding Winry of the Resembool countryside. She sadly realized she would never get a chance to tell her grandmother goodbye.
As if reading her thoughts, Edward commented quietly. "I'll let Granny know you'll be traveling for a while. I'll try my best to keep her updated, without giving too much away."
"Thanks, I would really hate for her to worry." Winry replied, smiling in gratitude. It was then she realized, for the first time since that night they were alone together. The thought made her heat up inside. Now that he was here, standing close to her, it was hard to forget how those arms felt wrapping around her and pulling her close. She blushed, thankful it was dark out. Her hands fiddled in front of her suddenly feeling self-conscious. Edward had turned away from her to glance heavenward, as stoic as ever. She wondered if he was upset she had so willingly agreed to go with Ling.
Unbeknownst to her, Edward had also came into realization that they were alone together. He had originally bought her out here so they could discuss her leaving. He wanted to make sure she was truly okay with this. But now that she was here, blonde hair shining in the moonlight, he suddenly found it hard to speak, let alone make a full sentence. He mind had already started to wonder in the recesses of his mind, pulling memories of her lips on his, the feel of her soft breasts resting in his hands…. Edward quickly looked upwards, reciting the periodic table in his head, praying that Winry couldn't read his face at the moment….or see his pants.
Lust wanted to laugh, seeing right through both love struck teens. It wasn't difficult to read their minds. "Will these guys ever grow up?" Lust complained, though secretly she was couldn't help but be amused. "So this is young love eh?" It was….cute, in an annoying way. She debated about pushing Winry along, but stopped herself. This may be their last moments together for awhile, might as well let them play this night out for themselves.
Not able to bear the silence any longer, Winry spoke up, her voice coming out louder than she intended. "Thank you again, for not giving up on us. I know during all of this, I haven't really made things easy on everyone. "She continued, remembering leaving the gang with Envy during their first fight and stealing Gluttony from Riza and Ling the other day. "Even now, I'm still leaving you behind…."
"Winry, don't say that!" Edward choked out, his hand falling on her shoulder. "If anyone's leaving anyone behind it's me! That's all I've ever done." He continued, bitterly. "If I didn't make that stupid mistake years ago, all three of us would had been back in Resembool, living together."
Winry smiled, moving his automail hand off her shoulder. Her fingers examined it, feeling the smooth grooves and bolts of the metal. Edward followed her hands silently, willing them to never let him go. "We can't change what happened…" she replied softly, her fingers wrapping around his hand. "But we can still move forward. Isn't that right?" She finished, looking up at him, blue eyes sparkling.
"Yeah…." Edward agreed, those same words sparking hope in him so many years ago. But why were they not working their magic like before? Was it because he knew she was about to set off on to a faraway land? No longer would he be able to give her a call or take a train to Resembool to have her work on his automail? He felt a knot grow in his throat, as Alphonse's advice from just the other day sprang to his head. He opened his mouth to tell her, but was interrupted as she grasped her other hand around his metal hand, holding it tightly between them.
"Remember if none of those things hadn't happened we wouldn't be the same people we are now." She explained optimistically, eyes shining brightly. "You and Alphonse have grown so much and learned so much about the world. You would of never experienced that in Resembool. Besides…" She added, looking down as she blushed. "I like how you are now."
Edward felt his face heat up at those words, and felt the knot in his throat get tighter. Without thinking, his moved his hands to where they were now grasping hers. She blinked up at him, blush still shining on her face and making her look irresistible to him. He had planned on returning her words of affection, but found talking and thinking was becoming way too difficult for him as his body instinctively moved towards her. His forehead touched hers, his voice husky as he asked.
"Will you be okay being alone there?" Edward was so close, she could barely hear his heart beat. She tilted her head up, forcing their eyes to meet. Even in the darkness, she could see his golden eyes glowing with worry and something else? She had seen those eyes only once before, during their first night together. They were looking her with lust.
"Don't you remember, I'm never alone." Winry teased softly. She hoped he understood she would have someone always by her side during this journey. "What about you? Will you be okay?"
Edward's lips tilted to a grin, thinking of the automail parts that were a part of him, always a reminder of a certain mechanic. His lowered his head to hers, lips barely moving as he answered.
"You're always with me." He replied, coming in for a kiss…
"I wonder what their saying?" Alphonse wondered aloud from the window, where Ling, Mustang, and himself sat watching the two from the cabin.
"Probably pronouncing their love for each other or some other rubbish like that." Mustang replied, still annoyed with his conversation with Fullmetal earlier. He had made one last attempt to try to get information from the homunculus. He had turned to Edward, who he felt would be the only one who could converse with Lust and not immediately get shot down.
"Edward I don't like this. By letting her go do you understand what we are losing?" Roy had argued, voice barely louder than a whisper.
"Funny how just a few minutes ago you were furious she was even here." Edward taunted, though his demeanor betrayed his own discontent.
"You know what kind of information she holds." Roy continued, ignoring Edward's jab. "It's not every day we are going to come across a find like this. We already lost one life today. Imagine what would happen if we knew what their goal was."
"I understand this is frustrating. It's not like I'm pleased either." Edward had confessed, glancing at Winry who was talking with Alphonse. "But at the moment, both of them need time. I know you want to get at Lust, but you have to trust Winry." Roy could see the teen's gaze soften as he spoke of his childhood friend. "If anyone can change Lust's mind, she can. Besides, do you really believe Lust would help you out of all people?"
Even Roy couldn't disagree with that logic. He also couldn't argue that they would be safest away from Amestris. He only hoped that he could possibly get a message to Maria Ross, to help keep an eye on them while they were in her territory.
"I don't think Edward would have the courage to do that." Alphonse remarked, unfortunately having to confess his older siblings faults. "He's a coward when it comes to matters of the heart."
"Never underestimate men when it comes to women." Mustang commented, while dryly adding, "But I have to agree with you about your brother on this one."
Ling kept silent, keeping Edward's secrets hidden. Its true words of romance were not Edward's strong suit, but men didn't need words. Actions spoke volumes. Ling's body tingled with the urge to leave, but he allowed himself to wait, knowing this would be the last time the two would see each other for a while. He could allow that much. Next to him, Alphonse watched the solemn prince.
"Were you really planning on just stealing Winry away earlier?" Alphonse asked. His precious friend was about to embark on a journey with Ling, he had to make sure she would be safe with the secretive prince. Ling sighed, turning his head to meet Alphonse's serious gaze.
"None of what I said back there was false." Ling answered quietly. "You, Edward, and Winry, I appreciate everything you've done for me and my entourage. You're truly kind people. Your loyalty to each other is admirable, something you should feel proud of. Imagine, if you will, how it must feel to have not one or two but thousands of people trusting you to succeed. Though my duty is strictly for the Lao clan, my wish if I become Emperor is to protect not only them but all the clans together as one country. Some of my other siblings do not share those same ideals." He paused, his voice betraying the fears that embodied him as he continued. "As of now I feel like a cornered dog, just barely making it. Lan Fan and Fu are gone, and even now I do not know if I am too late to gain kingship." Ling turned to Alphonse, bowing his head. "If my intentions seem irrational, I apologize for I am a desperate man."
"It's okay!" Alphonse replied quickly, waving his hands apologetically. "I didn't realize how bad things were."
"No matter where you live, a country is going to have its problems." Roy commented. "But I understand the need to want to help your fellow countrymen. It's an admirable trait."
"It's something I was born knowing I would have to do. There's nothing admirable about it." Ling bitterly added. "In a way, my origins are very similar to your Fuhrers."
"I'm sure that's the only thing you have in common." The colonel remarked, "As long as you have trust in humanity and maintain your ideals, you'll do fine. Believe in your people, since they believe in you." The prince nodded, taking the words to heart.
"I don't believe it!" Alphonse exclaimed suddenly, his hands pressed against the window glass. "I think Edward and Winry are about to kiss!" His whole body seemed to be shaking from excitement, causing a small and black panda to poke her head out annoyed.
"Get your head down boy or they'll notice you!" The Colonel ordered in a hushed tone, quickly moving to the window and push the suit of armor down as low as he could physically go till only the top parts of their heads were shown peering out the window. Ling joined them, crouching down low. Together all three watched as Edward grabbed Winry's hand, suddenly pulling her in close. The three men gasped.
"I can't believe Edward is actually making a move on Winry." Alphonse exclaimed in a hushed excited tone. "I thought for sure that wouldn't happen till we were like twenty."
"Like I said before, you can't underestimate men when it comes to women." Roy replied, eyeing the scene carefully. "Now the only question is whether this is Winry he's about to kiss or Lust?"
"It's Winry of course!" Alphonse argued, shocked.
"Can we really be sure about that?" Mustang responded, eyebrow rising skeptically.
"It's Winry." Ling answered, interrupting their senseless quarrel. "At the moment, Winry's presence is the strongest. I find that whoever is in control usually has the strongest aura surrounding the body and right now that's Winry." He smiled coyly, failing to mention that Edward and Winry had gone far beyond kissing already. However his smiled soon disappeared as an overwhelming presence suddenly appearance, causing him to jump up, screaming loudly out the window. "EDWARD! WINRY! GET OUT OF THERE NOW!"
Edward and Winry paused their kiss, lips inches from each other to stare in horror at not only Ling, but Mustang and Alphonse watching from the window. Mustang and Alphonse gaze fell from Edward to each other and then hastily looking up at Ling, accusing fingers pointed upward at the prince. "It was him!"
Winry buried her face in her hands in embarrassment as Edward jumped up, face steaming. "DAMN IT LING! WHAT DID I TELL YOU ABOUT SPYING ON ME!?" He was suddenly knocked down by Winry, Lust's voice escaping in panic.
"Get down you idiot!" Lust hissed, shielding him with her body as a gust of air soared past them.
"Wha?!" Both the Colonel and Alphonse gasped before they were pulled down by a frantic prince.
"Get down you two!" Ling cried, as a loud and strong gust of wind seemed to suddenly hit the cabin from all sides. Splinters of wood gushed past their heads, barely missing them as if a great tornado was sucking up the whole house. The roar suddenly ceased, all the wind coming to a complete stop.
Lust lifted herself off of Edward, both of them glaring at what was left of the cabin. One half of the building had been completedly demolished while the other half struggled to maintain its structure. Edward quickly rushed forward, calling out to his comrades. "Guys are you okay?!"
Some of the rubble moved away, making way for three figures to push their way up. Alphonse waved his hand, "We're okay!"
"Thank goodness." Edward sighed, turning to look at Lust who was staring intently at the forest. "What was that?"
"Trust me you don't want to know." Lust answered sombrely, as a rather large figure seemed to be stomping its way out of the forest. Without a word, Lust ran ahead calling back over her shoulder. "Get your friends out of here! Tell Ling I'll meet him at edge of the forest."
"Wait! Lust come back!" Edward screamed, just as Alphonse and the gang ran up to join him.
Mustang grabbed his shoulder, brow twitching angrily as he seethed, "I don't know what the hell just destroyed my cabin Fullmetal…..but I going to bet you are partially responsible!"
Before Edward could reply Ling bounded past them calling out over his shoulder, "There's a homunculi up ahead, it's a big one!"
"We have to go after them!" Edward exclaimed, moving out of the Colonel's grasp. Mustang grimaced, falling to one knee. Surprised, Edward quickly grabbed hold of him, allowing the Colonel to lean on him for support. It was then he noticed the blood stains oozing from the older man's side. "You're hurt?"
"It's just my wound from before...I think it's opened back up." Roy replied, his pain expression not easing the brother's worry. Edward and Alphonse shared a glance before nodding in agreement.
"Colonel, leave this to me and Al. We can handle things from here."
"Yeah you need to get somewhere safe." Alphonse agreed. "No way can you fight in your condition."
"That's ridiculous!" Roy spat, struggling to stand up straight as pain shot up his side. "I'm not leaving you boys to fight who knows what out there! What kind of superior do you take me for?"
"A stupid one if you think you'll be any help out there!" Edward retorted, the remark causing the Colonel to glare at his subordinate. "That wound may not kill you but what's out there will! If it truly is a homunculi, Al and I will be safe."
"That's right! For some reason they can't seem to harm us!" Alphonse explained. "We'll make sure Ling and Winry can get away from here and head to Xing! You can trust us!"
Before the colonel could argue with them further, they took off with Edward turning back around to shoot the flame alchemist a crooked grin. "Don't worry I'll fix your house later! That's a promise!"
Roy watched the two disappear into the forest, his hand clutching his wound tightly. "You and your damn promises." The veteran growled, angry at himself for getting into his position. Well I guess I can go after them now. Even he knew this wound would prevent him from catching up to the much younger teens. He swept his gaze across the forest, wondering what nightmares it held and praying they made it out safe.
"Lust! Stop! Lust can you hear me? Slow down!"
Winry's cries seemed to fall on deaf ears as the female homunculus raced through the forest, blonde hair rippling through the wind. I know you're here! Where are you? Lust thought desperately, eyes darted from shadow to shadow.
"LUST!" Winry screamed, finally causing the homunculus to freeze. "What's going on?! What was that back there?
"There's only one thing that I know of that has power like that." Lust answered quietly, pausing to listen to the surrounding silence. It was then Winry remembered. The only time she had witnessed such an attack. It was during one of Lust's memories she had shared with her not too long ago. But….
"But Lust...that would mean the one who had attached us is…" Winry gasped, the silence of the forest was suddenly interrupted by an eerie sound. Both girls listened, dread filling them.
"Winry…..Winry….."
Lust grimaced, pulling herself into a battle position as a large shape moved its way into the clearing. Gluttony appeared, fully formed into his rage mode. Winry gasped, consumed by fear. It was one thing to witness an event from someone else's memory, but seeing it in the flesh was even more terrifying. Gluttony's rib cage was completely ripped open, revealing a giant red eye that glowered at them with demonic hatred. Rage emanated from the homunculus has he turned to them.
"WINRY?!" Gluttony roared, pointing a finger at them.
"Did he forget that I'm inside of here?" Lust wondered as she stepped forward. Every cell within her seemed to scream in protest, including Winry, but she this was Gluttony. He had always been her companion since he had first entered this world. She trusted him more than any of her other siblings. "No Gluttony." She answered, placing a hand on her chest. "It's me, Lust. Don't you remember? This is my new body."
"Lust?" Gluttony repeated, his bones seeming to tremble in fury. "Winry….KILLED LUST!" Gluttony roared aiming an attack straight at Lust.
"Gluttony?" Lust questioned, unable to process that what was happening, that her old comrade was actually trying to kill her.
"Get down!" Ling yelled throwing himself at her as they both rolled out of the way of the attack as it blew past them. The attacked zoomed past them, sucking up trees and debris and consuming it whole. It was then that Edward and Alphonse arrived on the scene.
"Gluttony! Leave them alone!" Alphonse demanded. The giant momentarily turned to the suit of armor. It was then Edward took a chance to use alchemy to build a wall between them and the Gluttony. Knowing his brother would be fine, he ran to check on the other two.
"Hey are you guys okay?" Edward asked, arriving as the two were getting their bearings. Ling was just getting up, however Lust remained crouched to the ground, seemingly stunned.
"I don't understand…." he could hear her mutter. "I knew he would mad, but I didn't think he wanted to eat me….does he truly think I'm gone?"
"Lust?" Edward asked, unsure of what was going on. On the other side of the wall, he could hear his brother and the homunculus having some sort of conversation but there was no telling how long he would be able to stall him.
"Edward, we need to get her out of here." Ling interjected, putting an hand on Lust's shoulder. "She's in no condition to face that thing. We can use the tree tops to head eastward. We just need a diversion."
Edward hesitated, not expecting to say goodbye to Winry so suddenly. But his friend was right. They needed to get out of here before things got messy. Crouching down, he offered a hand to Lust. "Lust, I know this is sudden, but we need you to get out of here. Me and Al will distract him while Ling leads you away okay?"
Though still shocked, Lust knew enough to know now was not the time to linger. She nodded her head, accepting Edward's hand as both him and Ling helped her up. She stole a glance at the wall that separated her from her once dear friend. Silently she placed a hand on it. "I'm sorry Gluttony…..I wish things could be different"
"Lust…" Winry murmured, wishing there was something she could say. She knew this must be hurting her.
"It's okay." Lust answered briskly, turning away. "We need to move forward. Would you like a moment to say goodbye to him?"
Though nothing would had made Winry more happy, she bitterly shook her head, declining the offer. "Me being in control will only slow us down. And with Gluttony thinking I've taken over this body…." There was no need to explain further. Lust nodded in understanding. The time had come to part ways.
Composing herself, she turned her back to the wall, facing the prince. "I'm ready." Ling nodded, jumping up into the branches and leaving the two alone. Despite Winry's request, she wondered if it was really okay for them to not have one last moment together. She shook her head, wondering when she even cared about such trivial sentiments. Before she could say anything further, Edward had stepped forward grabbing her hand in his.
"Lust, please look after Winry." Edward pleaded, golden gaze resting on her. "I know I don't have a right to ask for such a favor, but I know Winry trusts you…...and so do I. "Edward added almost shly. "Both of you be safe."
Lust felt her chest tighten uncomfortably, as her hand unconsciously squeezed his in returned. Why was it suddenly hard to let his hand go? She found herself about to speak, but was interrupted by the loud roar of Gluttony yelling from the other side of the wall and then a loud boom as the wall began to crack. Edward momentarily let go of her hand to call out to his brother.
"Al are you okay?"
"He's coming brother!" Was Alphonse's panicked reply.
Edward grimaced, turning to warn Lust but found her already gone. He looked up and saw her peering down at him. She gave him a small smile, nodding her head before jumping away. Edward grinned knowing that Winry would be okay. A loud sound of tumbling rocks, made him jump back as Gluttony charged through, his nose sniffing the air.
"Winry! I smell Winry!" Gluttony growled savagely. "Where did she go?!"
Alphonse hurriedly climbed over the rocks behind the homunculus. "It's no use brother! For some reason Gluttony believes Winry has taken over Lust's body and killed Lust!" Alphonse explained breathlessly as he slid to his brother's side. " I tried to snap him out of it, but he isn't listening. I don't understand what's gotten into him or why he looks like that!"
"Because that's his true form you idiots." A voice called out from behind them. Both brothers turned behind them and saw a large Doberman pinscher with red glowing eyes. It growled, teeth bared as it barked out, "Stop it now Gluttony! Go find the girl!"
"A talking dog?" Edward questioned, puzzled.
"Long time no see." The dog replied, grinning as red sparks flashed around its body. The dog's body began to morph, changing into a familiar green haired homunculi. Envy grinned down at them wickedly. "How are you fullmetal pipsqueak?"
"Damn it I told you before don't call me that!" Edward yelled, running up to punch the living daylights out him. First he takes Winry and now he's calling him a pipsqueak again?! This guy was going to die tonight!
Envy quickly moved away from the attack, scoffing. "Hey calm down you twerp! I'm not here for you! I'm only here to get the girl! Nothing to do with you!"
"Sorry to break it to you but if you want her, you're going to have to go through us!" Edward growled back. Envy felt a vein popping in his head as he tried to keep his temper in check.
"I said I don't want to fight you! You damn pipsqueak!"
"THAT'S FIVE TIMES!" Edward roared, fist coming down where Envy stood. Luckily, he easily dodged it, jumping to a nearby tree branch.
"Five times? What?" Envy asked, cocking his head in confusion. What was this brat going on about?
"Three times in the laboratory, and now two times now you called me pipsqueak!" Edward explained, steam puffing out of his ears in anger. "DON'T TELL ME YOU FORGOT ALREADY!"
"To think Lust would choose to spend her time with idiot like you will forever baffle me." Envy muttered to himself, rolling his eyes. He quickly jumped away from the brothers, planning to continue his search for Lust. He landed next to Gluttony who was busy trying to pick up her scent.
"Any sign of the girl?" Envy asked, carefully avoiding using Lust's name. He had to keep up the charade that Lust was gone for Gluttony to continue his search. Envy felt a bad taste in his mouth lying to his sibling but knew it was too late to reconsider. Father's orders were not to be crossed with. Still the memory of a few hours before still left a chill down his spine….
Just as Pride spoke about Father sending someone special after Lust, a creaking sound was heard in the Fuhrer's office. All those present turned to look as Gluttony quietly entered the room, squeezing out of the secret tunnel entrance hidden behind the Fuhrer's book case. The young homunculus looked around the room, seeming confused about why he was here. Pride's toothy grinned widened. "Awww, just who I was waiting for!"
"Him?" Envy exclaimed, throwing his arms out. "Father expects Gluttony to go after Lust! Is he insane! Gluttony would never do that!"
"Lust?" Gluttony questioned, not even noticing the dead body in the room. "What's wrong with Lust? Where is she?"
"Where is she?! I'll tell you! That bitch decided to…." A dark tendril wrapped itself around Envy's mouth, silencing him. As the homunculus struggled to escape, Pride stepped forward.
"I hate to inform you of the terrible news, but our dear sibling has been vanquished from this world."
"Vanquished?" Gluttony asked, cocking his head. "What does that mean?"
"It means…" Pride continued slyly. "She is gone."
"Gone? Gluttony doesn't understand." Gluttony stammered looking from Envy who had paused his struggling to stare in surprise to Wrath who bowed his head in agreement. "Where is Lust?"
"Allow me to explain…." Pride stepped forward, placing a hand on the agitated homunculus. "I'm sure you are aware of the creature Lust's shared her body with….now what was the name again?" Pride asked, tapping his chin.
"Winry?" Gluttony answered quietly. Unbeknownst to him dark tendrils had started to encircle around him. Pride grinned.
"Yes Winry. So you were aware of her existence."
Gluttony shook his head, backing away. "No, Winry was Lust. Lust was Winry! Lust was Lust! WHERE IS SHE?" The world around him suddenly turned pitch dark. Gluttony stared in horror as red eyes looked down on him, the only voice he could hear was Pride's as it belated him.
"No you are wrong. Winry was Winry and Lust was Lust. Two souls that happened to share one body. Unfortunately for Lust, Winry has taken full custody of that portal completely washing away our beloved Lust."
"I don't understand!" Gluttony repeated, tears not rolling down his face. It was so dark and he was all alone. Why was Lust not here for him? She had always been there for him! Now he was alone and all he could hear was the cold voice of Pride as it continued to engulf him from all sides.
"Think about it Gluttony! Hasn't Lust been acting strange lately? Has she really been herself?"
The memory of Lust stabbing at Gluttony as he was about to eat the human girl flashed in his mind, making the tears flow harder. He covered his face with his hands trying to block all this from his mind. He just wanted his old Lust back. Dread and anger filling him, making him feel like bursting.
"It only comes to one logical conclusion. Lust is gone, replaced by the vile human. The human you trusted to return Lust to you…."
"No….Lust...no….why…." Gluttony began to sob.
"Has not taken her away...such sad world isn't it?"
From outside the dark entrapment, both Envy and Wrath stood listening to their younger sibling's cries of distress. Envy's fist clenched at his sides, knowing this was wrong. He took at step forward but felt a firm hand grasp his shoulders. Wrath stared down at him coldly.
"It is Father's will." He warned. Envy looked down, grimacing as Gluttony continued to wail from his dark imprisonment.
"Don't worry Gluttony. There is still time. Winry is has not escaped our grasp yet." Pride's voice dripped fake sympathy as he continued. "You can still track traitor down and sent her to the depths of despair. Seek your revenge! Do it for Lust!"
"Winry!" Gluttony growled, his body distorting itself as Pride smiled from the shadows. "I WILL EAT WINRY!" He roared, breaking free from the dark prison and emerging in the office in his true form. Without further ado, he jumped out of the Fuhrer's office window, dashing off into the night.
Envy stared, in shock of what he just witnessed. Pride turned to him sharply. "What are you waiting for? Go after him and make sure he doesn't get in too much trouble." Biting back a retort, Envy followed suit, jumping from the office window and landing as a dog on the ground below. He dashed after his comrade, knowing he already had a good head start.
"I smell them! I smell them all! Mustang, Fullmetal, the Xing prince!" Gluttony cried, bringing Envy out of his thoughts. "They all took Lust away from me! I have to eat them!"
Envy bought his fist down on the rambling Gluttony's head. "Relax you big oaf. You know the rules. No matter how annoying they are, you don't eat the Colonel or the Elric brothers. Got it?"
"Why not!?" Gluttony argued.
"That's exactly what we want to know." Edward interrupted, both him and Alphonse coming out from the bushes. Envy felt annoyance rising as he turned to face the alchemist.
"What? That bitch hasn't blabbed all our secrets to you yet?" Envy asked bitterly.
"No, she's still loyal to you." Edward replied solemnly. "Though it's hard to see why with the way you all are acting tonight." He noticed surprise flash on the homunculus' face before quickly being replaced by contempt.
"Did she now? She's a bigger idiot than I thought." Envy smirked, snapping his fingers. "Gluttony go after her now!"
Before the brothers could react, Gluttony rammed through them, completely knocking them aside as he raced into the forest. Alphonse quickly stood up, calling after him desperately. "Wait Gluttony! That's Lust you're chasing...Agh!" Alphonse gasped as Envy's hands transformed into spears, pinning Alphonse to a tree.
"Hey! Hands off him!" Edward growled, charging at the green haired homunculus. Envy's other hand shot forward, changing into a giant green claw that wrapped around the alchemist's neck. Edward gasped, the strength the he exhibited seeming unnaturally. It was like a giant was holding him. Envy licked his teeth, savoring the site of him struggling.
"BROTHER!" Alphonse cried.
"You listen well Fullmetal. If you know what's good for you, you'll stay away from that girl" Envy pulled back, throwing him on the ground. "SHE'S OURS!"
Edward skidded, landing on his shoulder painfully. He lifted his head, watching as Envy pulled his other hand out of his brother, the suit of armor crashing to the ground. "Now if you excuse me, I have someone I need to kill."
"Come back here you bastard!" Edward yelled, getting to his feet. "You stay away from her!"
"Oh and what are you going about it? You're nothing but a puny human." Envy taunted, not even bothering to turn around. He froze as a giant rock wall was suddenly formed to block his way. He turned to see Edward with hands clasped to the ground, smirking.
"You say I'm nothing but a human, but only humans can perform alchemy. Isn't that right? And despite all you homunculi so called power, didn't a mere human managed to defeat one of you?" Edward pointed out, causing Envy to glare. "And isn't it funny that it was one little human that managed to convince Lust to leave your group?"
Without warned Envy charged forward, transformed into a dog as he aimed a bite at Edward's face. Edward dodged out of the way, as Envy skidded on his feet. His white teeth bared at Edward as he growled. "You're pretty cocky for someone who has to share his girlfriend with an enemy!" He transformed back into his human form, his violet eyes glinting with hatred. "How can you idiots even think twice before letting someone like Lust join your group!? Don't you even know about half the stuff she's done! She's a murderer! Your girlfriend is sharing a body with someone who kills for fun! AND YOU'RE OKAY WITH THAT!?"
"I admit that Winry sharing a body with Lust is not really something I care for." Edward said, explained. "But I care about Winry and I want to help her."
"Think about it Fullmetal. Do you really think that girl is going to be the same girl you know? For all you know she could become a killer just like us homunculi! Do you actually think things are going to be the same!?" Envy asked, voice rising in frustration.
"Maybe things can't be the same as they were." Edward argued, clutching his automail hand determinedly. "But someone taught me that no matter what comes our way, we should always keep moving forward. That's what I plan on doing, with Winry and Lust!"
"We'll see about that." Was Envy's reply, cracking his knuckles with a devious smirk. "I may not be able to kill you, but that doesn't mean I can't rough you up a bit." Or a lot, Envy thought about to run at him but a voice from above sent him to a stop.
"Coming through!" Ling called out landing in between the two. He smiled nonchalantly at the confused homunculus. "Hey Ling Lao! Not sure if we met yet."
"Ling! What the hell are you doing here?" Edward asked, pointing a finger at him.
"A little privacy please Edward, you have a guest arriving soon" Ling answered, waving a dismissive hand at Edward, gaze never moving away from the homunculus in front of him. Taking the hint, Edward slammed his hands to the ground, a stone barrier coming up between him and Ling's confrontation with Envy. Taking this moment, Edward quickly reunited with Alphonse, fixing the place where Envy had pierced him. A soft thud was heard behind him. He turned and found Lust had returned.
"What are you guys doing here!?" Edward demanded, half glad and half furious to see her. "Ling is supposed to be escorting you out of here!"
"After telling him he would have a better chance of gaining the crown by bringing back three homunculi rather than one, he instantly turned around." Lust explained simply.
"LING YOU POWER HUNGRY BASTARD!"
"Sorry Edward, can't hear you! Fighting someone right now!" LIng yelled back from the other side of the wall, not sounding one bit apologetic. Edward rolled his eyes.
"I decided I have unfinished business here." Lust stated, turning her head to the direction where Gluttony could be heard rampaging through the forest. "He'll be here soon, I'm going to need your help to trap him."
"Why do you want to trap him?" Alphonse asked. "Isn't it dangerous to even be near him?"
"I understand it's risky but I can't let him go on thinking I'm gone." Lust explained somberly. "I owe Gluttony that much for him to know the truth. After that he can decide for himself whether he wants to kill me or not."
Edward and Alphonse shared a look before shooting Lust mischievous grins. "Winry got under your skin didn't she?" Edward teased.
Lust blushed, whether it was because Fullmetal was right or because his face was really close to her. She pulled way, coughing into her hand. "Ahem, it true Winry was aware of how concerned I was about Gluttony." She glanced down, thinking back to Winry's words.
"Gluttony missed you so much he went through the trouble of finding me so you could use my body to come back." Winry had said as they traveled towards the forest's borders. "Would it really be fair to have him to think all of that was a waste? That he lost you all over again without saying goodbye?"
"I can't leave him behind in the form he is now. It wouldn't be right." Lust finished, just as Gluttony burst into the clearing. Edward and Alphonse flanked each side of her, getting into a fighting stance.
"You sure about this?" Edward asked, turning to her. Even with the three of them, he knew this wouldn't be an easy fight.
"Let's get him." Lust ordered, leading them into the fray.
On the other side of the stone, wall Ling was also facing off against a homunculus. One that was quickly losing patience with these humans.
"I don't care who you are, but I don't have time to waste on a kid like you. So do me a favor and hit the road!" Envy demanded, annoyed. He could hear Gluttony near which meant a certain other homunculus was also nearby. His hands itched to confront that traitorous bitch.
"What do you mean kid?!" Ling exclaimed, hitting his chest proudly. "I happen to be the 12th son of the Emperor of Xing!"
Envy stared at him unimpressed. "Oh I know you...you're the brat who crossed swords with Bradley. Twice if I remember correctly."
"That's right."
"Haven't you learned your lesson by now, not to cross swords with an homunculi?" Envy taunted, grinning broadly. "Or do I need to teach you a lesson you won't soon forget?"
"You know what they say...third time's the charm!" Ling answered, rushing forward to attack.
"Let's see how good you are." Envy sneered, getting into a fighting stance. "You held off Bradley but how will you do against me?" The two of them clashed, with Ling swinging his sword with swift movements. Envy dodged with ease, grinning like a mad man. "You really know how to use that thing!"
"Thanks for the compliment." Ling growled, shooting an uppercut. His eyes widened in dismay as Envy grabbed his fist and pulled him down.
"You fell for it!" Envy laughed, his other arm shooting out in the form of a green snake. The serpent wrapped around the prince's arm and neck, suffocating him. "Cool isn't it? And you humans can't do anything like it." The homunculus bragged, snickering at the sight of the struggling human. "So what will it be? Strangled to death? Bitten to death? Or just carved up into little pieces?" Envy asked, his other arm transforming into a sword.
"None of the above!" Ling growled, dropping his sword and kicking dirt into Envy's face. As soon as he was released, he grabbed his weapon and swiped at Envy who howled in pain. He stepped back, his foot cracking the ground beneath him, something Ling took note off.
"That was a dirty trick" Envy growled, glaring at the prince "Blinding me that is not playing fair!"
"People have been trying to assassinate me since I was a kid." Ling stated, swirling his sword. "Under the circumstances you can't blame a guy for learning to fight dirty. So have you had enough yet, or are you going to come with me quietly now? I just want whatever information you can give me about becoming immortal." Ling grinned, eyeing the homunculus like an hungry predator. "Or shall we go again?"
Envy shook with anger as he answered, ""You scum! A mere mortal like you can't condiscend to me!"
"You seem to underestimate humans….And that's a mistake!" Ling yelled, running just as the walls tumbled between them…..
"Al you take left, I'll take the right!"
"Got it!" Al yelled, running to one side of Gluttony as Edward took the other. Both brother's clapped their hands, creating two hands that rose from the ground, wapping Gluttony into place. The homunculus' head swiveled around, desperate to escape.
"Leave me alone! I can't eat you two!" Gluttony howled. "I want to eat Winry! I smell her! I smell her!"
"I'm here Gluttony." Winry's voice spoke out into amid the cries. All three of them turned sharply to see not Lust but Winry in control.
"Winry! What are you doing?" Edward hissed, eyes begging her to let Lust lead. It's not like he didn't trust her decisions, but he knew Lust had a lot more battle experience. Winry ignored him, stepping towards the struggling homunculus.
"Gluttony don't you remember me?" Winry pleaded, hands clasped together. "It was because I helped you that day that you decided to use me to help Lust. It was because I was kind to you. Do you'll really think I would kill Lust off, just like that?"
"Lust is gone! You killed her! Pride told me! Pride told me everything!" Gluttony growled, the sight of the young girl throwing him into fits.
"Well Pride's wrong." Winry voice had suddenly gone deeper and in her place stood Lust. "Gluttony I'm still alive. Winry hasn't did a thing to me." She set a hand on her chest, imploring him to listen. "Please Gluttony you have to believe me. I'm still here!"
"Lust….." Gluttony seemed to be struggling to come to terms with what was true and what wasn't. Why would Envy and the others lie to him? They had said she was gone, that this girl had taken her away. He thought about Lust stabbing him and the distance that had grown between them in the last few days. Anger bubbled within him. His body convulsed, shaking with fury. "LIES!" he screamed, arms spreading apart and causing the structure holding him to crumble.
Lust's eyes widened in horror as Gluttony sprinted towards her, his intent to kill plain on his face.
"LEAVE HER ALONE!" Both Edward and Alphonse yelled in unison, both brothers ramming him in the side. Their combined strength knocked all three into the stone wall, knocking them through the other side and right into Ling's path.
"Hey! Stay on your side of the wall!" Ling exclaimed, surprised as all three came tumbling through. "I'm busy!" He had just cut off one of Envy's legs and had gotten him to the ground.
"Guys are you okay?" A voice called from the other side of the wall. Through the cloud of dust, Envy could see a shadow about to make her way through. Anger exploded in him. "This is my chance!" While the prince was distracted, he quickly transformed into an injured Lan Fan. Ling gaped, hesitating to strike. Envy grinned, another foolish human. He swept his leg out from under the prince, knocking him to the ground. Quickly jumping up, he grabbed the prince and flung him at Lust who had just entered through the hole in the wall.
Lust gasped as Ling's body fell against her both of them stunned as they hit the ground. It was at that moment, Gluttony rose up from the rubble looking dazed. Envy took his chance, pointing a finger at the two.
"GLUTTONY! THERE SHE IS! DO IT NOW!" Gluttony's ribs opened up, preparing to devour the two.
Lust weakly opened her eyes, time seeming to slow down as she stared into the eye of Gluttony's stomach. "Gluttony?" She whispered, hand reaching out in vain to stop him. She felt a hand touch her shoulder and glanced up to see Ling staring down at her, dark eyes solemn. "Thank you for saving both Lan Fan and I. " Ling whispered before using his leg to push her out of the way.
She tumbled downward, the ground sloping slightly. She looked up in time to see a scene she would never forget. Edward screaming Ling's name and rushing towards him. Envy seeing his blundered, sprinting to stop the alchemist and then the roar of what was unmistakably Gluttony's devouring his prey. The silence that followed would haunt Lust forever.
Ember Sunblaze: I'm sure you all knew where that was going...Please Review!