The Flower Princess and the Alchemist

by BloodPokemon101

"How can you bypass the laws of Equivalent Exchange without a Philosopher's Stone?" "I don't think my powers have anything to do with alchemy." After fighting a Hollow, Orihime mysteriously finds herself in the world of FMA. With the meeting of the Elric brothers, she is tossed into another adventure with joy, heartbreak, and romance along the way.

41. Orihime's Tears and Edward's Feelings

(A/N: Here's chapter forty one of 'The Flower Princess and the Alchemist'. Enjoy!

Guest review (Koren): Thanks for the review! Well, what can I say? Orihime is so focused on Ichigo, she doesn't realize her own growing feelings for Edward. But she will someday.

EvanderAdvent: Thanks for reviewing! Hehehe! That's a good one.

Asuki -The Infinite Archive: Thanks for reviewing! I think you are forgetting, and I am getting tired of repeating this, that Ed and Al can't see Hollows. Whenever something happened in the Human World, did the Soul Reapers go around advertising to humans the dangers of Hollow sightings? No. I think people who keep saying 'Ed and Al should stop being ignorant of the Hollow business because they've unknowingly been involved in several incidents' need to seriously go back and rewatch Bleach. Because you seems like you guys are either missing or completely ignoring the core fundamentals of Bleach. I'm seriously getting tired of repeating myself every. Damn. Time! They would find out about Hollows eventually, so calm down, alright?

sacke110: Thanks for the review! That was a very emotional chapter. Two teenagers experiencing their first kiss, and their emotional reactions to it.)

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Orihime's Tears and Edward's Feelings

Edward woke up the next morning overwhelmingly worse for wear. He had an awful dream last night. A dream where...Orihime was taken away from him. Everything was pitched black. She was walking further and further away. To someplace where he couldn't reach her. Where he couldn't see her. No matter how loud he screamed or yelled, no matter how hard he chased after her, she was gone. Just gone. After last night…

After last night…

"I love you, Ichigo."

He groaned, miserably. There was no reason to dwell on these things. He was just being paranoid. Orihime would never leave him. Right? She had no reason to. Right?

"Not unless Ichigo is involved."

A small noise escaped from his throat that sounded like a mixture of crushing defeat, hopeless rejection, and dispirited sorrow. An aura of dejection and depression hovered over him. He let out a dejected sigh, and weakly threw his blanket aside.

He shouldn't be moping. It was time for him to get ready for the day. After all, he had a mission assigned to him. The mission was a mere reconnaissance expedition. He was supposed to investigate the disappearance of men in a town northeast from here called Neshire. Some military officers have tried to survey the strange case, but none of them ever returned. And it's not just Neshire. People have mysteriously gone missing all over Amestris.

Ed immediately accepted the mission without hesitation because it was all too suspicious. People disappearing, and not a single trace of them left? His mind instantly drifted the possibility of someone making a Philosopher's Stone. It was the only thing that made sense. The only thing that could make people suddenly go missing without any trace or hint of where they've gone off to. After all, the only way to produce one was to use human lives. Thousands of human lives.

It made him absolutely sick to think that someone was trying to create a stone. He had to stop this sick freak from sacrificing more innocent people. He still remembered the sickening, gut punching revelation of discovering the fact that human lives must be sacrificed to produce even one stone. This monster needed to be stopped, no matter what!

Yet that wasn't the only reason he took the assignment. He also...needed a reason to clear his head. To forget what happened the past couple of days. He… He just needed time to recover. Time to sort of his feelings. He was still a jumbled mess of pain and misery.

But still… Once Ed left his bedroom, he'd have to face her. Face Orihime. As unready as he was, and he was dreading the moment he stepped out the door, he begrudgingly understood that he couldn't lock himself inside the room forever.

Although, that didn't make the anxiety that was bubbling repulsively inside his stomach go away. It caused him to feel nauseated, upset, and very anxious. These unnerving, miserable feelings were telling him how much he really doesn't want to see her yet. Mocking him for his cowardice.

If he was being honest with himself, on that night, he was happy. Despite the fear, shock, and embarrassment, he was undoubtedly happy. That kiss made him feel elated.

It was his first kiss.

And it was with Orihime!

First of all, he had never even kissed a girl before. Shocker, right? He was just never interested in romance. After all, Al was way more important than some silly, little romance. Relationships were a distraction he didn't have time for. It was his fault his baby brother was stuck in that cold, unfeeling armor. He had to give Al his body, no matter what! There was no time for setbacks! After his goal was done, then he would do all the stuff he missed out on.

That's was what he thought at first.

Yet, he was happy when he was able to dance with Orihime. So, blissfully enraptured. Holding her in his arms just felt so right. It was just him and her. It was just them. For a single night it was all about them. There were no distractions, no worries, and no interventions. He was surprised that he could experience such happiness. He never felt that ecstatic before his life. He would daresay the night was perfect.

Ed just hopelessly assumed that maybe...that there was a slim chance that Orihime was only looking at him and him alone. The adoration in her eyes, her soft smiles...it was all pointed at him only. Beside some minor issues, the night was peaceful, fun, and exciting. He was happy. He got to learn about Orihime in ways he never imagined. She opened up to him, voicing out her dreams and her insecurities. About her hair and her dreams of opening up her own restaurant. He wasn't lying when he told her that he liked hair. It was silky soft and beautiful. The color of the setting sun. Plus, the lovely and inviting strawberry scent that washes through it and enchanted him so. And he absolutely adored her cooking. He would eat it everyday. He honestly doesn't believe he would have the strength to go on without eating Orihime's meals, at least, once a day. He felt so much closer to her than ever before. They talked and talked, and time seemed to move so fast. It's nice and welcoming to hear Orihime talk so much about her home country.

Then, at last, they danced. Their first dance together. And most of all, it was Orihime's first dance. A sense of happiness, pride, and victory swelled up inside his heart. He claimed something of hers that Ichigo never had before. He felt so at peace and euphorically content holding her in his arms. Her frame was small, warm, and soft fitted perfectly in his broad, muscular, and, begrudgingly, short build. The intoxicating, strawberry scent of her hair waft gracefully into his nose. The soft, melodious music playing in the background just made the magnificent evening even more marvelously wonderful. It was the happiest moment of his life. He was incredibly elated and delightfully overjoyed.

And afterwards… Soon afterwards, they...they kissed. It was such an unexpected turn of events. He doubted either of them expected the dance to end in such a way. It just happened. Like they were being pulled by magnets. With the moon shining so brilliantly, illuminating the night with a magical, silvery light. They were hypnotized, hopelessly lost in each other's eyes. Silver staring into gold and gold staring into silver. The color of the sun and moon, respectively. And before they knew it, it happened. Their lips were already pressed against one another in a soft, chaste kiss that turned more passionate as the seconds ticked by. In that instant, behind the embarrassment and shock, his heart leapt with exhilaration and rapture. Fiery jolts of electricity shot all throughout his body, sending rapturous sparks of pleasure to every nerve in his body. Firecrackers had gone off, blissfully satisfying his entire being.

The blond alchemist pressed the tips of his fingers against his lips. He could still clearly imagine Orihime's velvety lips locked against his in a sweet, entrancing harmony. So incredibly soft, delicately smooth, and delightfully warm. He could die of bliss at that very spectacular moment. He unmistakably remembered how her lips taste. Sugary and sweet. Probably partially due to the cookies they ate. So lovely and enticing.

He won't lie. He liked it. He really liked it! He...loved it! For some reason, he loved it! There were no words to describe the emotion he felt. He couldn't put it into words. All he knew was that he liked it. Deep down...he just wanted...another kiss. To taste Orihime's soft, gentle lips once again.

It was his first kiss. And it was so wonderful. No, not wonderful. Majestically dazzling. Breathtakingly enchanting. His first kiss and it was intoxicatingly, spellbindingly fantastic. He became addicted and bewitched. It captivated his heart in ways he couldn't dream of. When Orihime kissed him… His heart practically exploded out of his chest. He pictured that she was seeing him. Just him. That she felt something for him. Something for him and him only. There was no Ichigo in the picture. She only had eyes for him.

Then he cursed himself for thinking that, for taking pleasure in something so unattainable, for being so damn foolish. The green eyed monster cruelly laughing at him for such an outlandish fantasy. It wasn't like it was date. Orihime wasn't even his girlfriend. After all, she would never look at him like that because she...already has someone else.

She already has someone, and it's not him.

"I love you, Ichigo."

He bit his lip so hard, a trickle of blood glided down. The agonizing pain in his heart just wouldn't go away. The ugly monster clawed torturously against his being. Each stab and slash caused him great, unrelenting torment and suffering. It hurts! It hurts so much! This affliction was unbearable. Unbearable because… Because...

Ichigo already has Orihime's heart.

Then where does that leave him?

Edward clenched the sheets so tightly, his knuckles were beginning to turn white. The harsh torrent of bitterness and despair raged against his heart, burning it unforgivingly. His chest ached, painfully. A pin dropped inside him. Broken pieces of his heart shattered and crashed onto cold, harsh ground. He doesn't know why it hurts inside so much.

Where does that leave him? Does he have his own place inside Orihime's heart?

He laughed, mockingly at himself, holding his head, so pitifully. Look at him. Acting like some heartbroken teenage girl. It was pathetic. His chest twisted, painstakingly tight. He gasped it into his fist. The spot were his hurting heart lay. So fucking pathetic. Why was he thinking about all this? Thinking about something he never had a chance of attaining in the first place.

He punched his face hard, grunting in pain. He should just man up! He had a mission to fulfill. He should just focus on that, and nothing else.

"I love you, Ichigo."

His chest twisted. Hand tightened.

Yeah… Just focus on the mission.

---

Orihime hummed while she was busy making breakfast for Edward, Winry, Nina, and herself. She had gotten up earlier, feeling refreshed and ready to go. She hopped right into the room Winry was staying at next door, so she could say 'hi' to Nina. Too bad the little girl was still asleep. Can't blame her though. It was eight thirty in the morning at the time. Nina probably wasn't an early rising like she was.

There was another thing she was getting quite worried about. Ed still hasn't come out of his room yet. She tried not to think about it too much. Ed was probably still sleeping. He sometimes likes to sleeps in, especially on his days off. He wasn't much of a morning person. Winry was currently taking a shower.

Right now, she was stirring the eggs and tiny bits of bacon and cheese in a bowel. She was planning to make some omelettes and toast for breakfast. She just needed to add some cherry tomatoes that has been marinated in honey, paprika, and pickled relish, along with some mayo and ketchup into the mix as a final touch, and make a peanut butter and peach jam for the toast.

Nina trudged, tiredly rubbing her sleepy eyes, and letting out a yawn. "Good morning, Big Sis Ori," she exhaled, drowsily.

"Morning, Nina!" the auburn haired healer smiled. "I'm almost done making breakfast."

"Mmhmm!" the young brunette mumbled, happily crawling upon the chair, waiting for breakfast to be served. The sweet, savory smell of bacon and eggs waft gently through the air.

Orihime smiled before continuing to work on the meal she's making. It'll be ready in a few minutes. She hadn't been able to talk to Ed yesterday because Ed had a meeting to attend to. She still felt a little anxious, but happy. Happy because the small birthday cake she baked for him was gone. The only conclusion she could draw was that Edward ate it. That made her so happy. So, he wasn't mad at her? That's good.

She heard a quiet knock on the door. "That must be Ed and Al!" Just in time to. She just finished.

After turning off the stove, she quickly washed and dried her hands. "Coming!" she happily called out when she heard another knock. She walked over to the door. Her hand gripped the handle and twisted it, causing the door to spring open.

"Good morning!" the ginger haired girl chirped, cheerfully greeting Ed and Al.

"Morning, Orihime," Alphonse greeted back.

Her gray eyes drifted to Edward, a soft smile plastered on her face, and her heart thumping with anticipation. She blinked, a confused frown taking place across her countenance when Ed, after meeting her gaze, swiftly averted his golden orbs from hers.

"M-morning…," Edward finally said, but his usual nonchalant boisterous tone was gone. His bangs hid his face from hers as he carefully slid past her, being extremely mindful to avoid any physical contact.

She stared at the blond alchemist's retreating back with saddened, gray eyes. "Eddie?" she questioned, softly, voice full of hurt. Edward...just now...refused to look at her. To spare her a single glance. Her heart stung. Why?

She felt a leathery hand on her left shoulder. She glanced at it to discern a familiar gauntlet hand, and her eyes traced it back to Al.

"Orihime, are you alright?" he asked, concerned.

She oppressed the pain and confusion that was surfacing within her in the back of her mind. She offered the younger Elric a bright smile. "I'm fine, Al! Don't just stand there! Come in." She eagerly pulled him inside. "You guys are just in time. I finished making breakfast."

"Uh, Ed's been acting a little weird since this morning," Al said, tentatively, feeling obligated to inform her while he was being pulled into the room. "Don't mind him, Orihime."

A placid smile to form. "Oh? It's okay. I just hope Eddie feels better soon," she replied, worriedly.

"Don't worry," Al started with a jolly tone. "Once brother eats your cooking, he'd be back to his old self.

She beamed, brightly. The thought of Edward enjoying her cooking so much caused her to swell up with happiness and pride. A renewed pride she had never felt before in her abilities as a chef. "Thanks, Al. That means a lot."

Al's glowing, red eyes twinkled into a smile.

Orihime clapped her hands together, cheerily. "I'll go ahead and set the table. Breakfast would be served in just a moment!" She bounced away with a pep in each step.

---

Five minutes later, breakfast that consisted of cheese, bacon, and honey omelette along with some buttered toast and with a serving of peanut butter and peach jam was ready and served.

Everyone seated themselves around the dinner table. Orihime sat on one side of the table with Nina to her right. Edward was seated across from her with Alphonse to his left and Winry to his right. Winry had just gotten out of the shower a few minutes beforehand, dressed in her usual attire.

The atmosphere felt strangely quiet and heavy for some odd reason. Awkwardness that exuded from it was somewhat unsettling. Orihime's concerned gaze was locked on Edward, witnessing him dully picking at his food with such a somber expression on his face.

"Uh, Eddie?" the ginger haired girl spoke, worriedly. "Are you not hungry?"

Golden eyes travelled in her direction, but similar to before, his eyes swiftly darted away from her.

"I'm fine," he mumbled, absentmindedly, his tone laced with lugubrious and melancholic.

"Are-are you sure?" Orihime asked, worriedly. Ed wasn't acting like his usual self. He seemed pretty...unhappy for some reason. His normally cocky and self assured attitude was not present this morning. Did the kiss still bother him, after all? She knew she should have talked to him about it yesterday. He appeared sad and subdued. Everytime their eyes crossed paths, even though it was just for a moment, she could distinctly pick up the cloud of hurt and anguish and another emotion she could not recognize behind those golden pools. However, she was at a loss of words to say. How could she cheer Ed up?

"I said, I'm fine!" he snapped, sourly. His unexpectedly harsh tone caused Orihime to flinch and a startled whimper to escape from her.

"O-okay," she quietly sniffled out.

Ed's vehemently upset and bitterly annoyed expression immediately turned regretful at the hurt look on the auburn haired girl's face. He felt like such an ass for hurting her feelings. She was only worried about him, and he yelled at her.

The blond alchemist opened his mouth, an apology ready at the tip of his tongue. However, when he eyed her, a stabbing pain struck at his heart. His stomach twisted into painful knots. An acid wave of tormented agony, unsettling distress, and soul crushing anguish swirled inside him in a dark, monstrous tsunami of disturbingly sorrowful emotions.

"I love you, Ichigo."

Every single damn time Ed stared at Orihime, those four, harrowingly distraught words shot inside his head with cold, harsh, and malicious precision, causing a distressingly bitter taste to boil threateningly on his tongue. This cruel pain… This agonizing suffering… This awful sadness… This acutely burning ache… It just continued to pierce at his heart over and over again, relentlessly unmerciful, savagely chipping away it with every vicious strike. How could he look at her when all she saw was Ichigo?

The blond boy his pain and torment by inwardly biting his lip.

It just wasn't...fair!

Alphonse and Winry glanced between Edward and Orihime, worriedly. Something was so obviously bothering Ed. Whatever it was, it had something to do with Orihime, if Ed's refusal to look at her wasn't enough of a dead giveaway.

What happened at the dance? Edward and Orihime had no troubles the morning before the dance. They acted like their usual selves. Happy and bubbly Orihime and assertive and confident Ed. They were so relaxed, comfortable, and happy with each other.

Now, it seemed as if they were afraid to speak a single word to each other. Like they were dancing on eggshells when around one another.

Al remembered how much his older brother was anxious about going to the dance with Orihime. He tried so hard to brush it off as no big deal, nonchalantly stating that it just a simple dance. Nothing to fret over as the younger brother kept pestering him not to be late and to dress nice. However, all Edward did was fret. And Al knew exactly why he was freaking out. He was going to with Orihime! Alone. Together!

He was highly aware of Ed's obviously huge crush on the auburn haired healer. It was as plain as day. The way he tries to steal subtle glances her way in he thought no one was looking. The way he cheeks pinkens slightly when she smiles at him. Whenever he was within close proximity of her, his fingers constantly linger, unsure of where to go, but itching to brush against her dainty fingers or stroke her pretty hair.

That was why Ed was damn nervous and anxious about the party. The dance was perfect opportunity to woo her. He could not afford to mess up, or make himself look like a fool in front of her. He had to do his absolute best to impress her. This was his big chance! He couldn't afford to blow it!

It was amusing witnessing his older brother trying to act all nonchalant about it all, but knowing deep down he was in a panicked mess. And he was also happy. Really happy. There was a spark of a starry twinkle in his brother's eyes has not seen before in such a long time. Al was acutely conscious of the fact that Ed was in love with Orihime, even though his brother was too prideful to acknowledge his true feelings for the healer himself. He gets distracted so easily sometimes whenever Orihime's near him. He's overly sensitive to other guys coming on to her. In a way, it was entertaining and endearing to observe Ed comically spazz out, getting amusingly awkward, and adorably lovestruck over a girl. He's never seen his older brother taken in by someone that badly before. It was kind of...cute.

That was why Al never expected Ed to come back looking so...disheartened and depressed. Conversely, his brother had fully recovered from his dispirited mood, and he appeared to be slowly returning to his old self.

That was until last night. More specifically, after Edward put Orihime to bed. The situation mysterious worsened in those heart pounding moments.

When Ed came out of the room, Al was absolutely stunned, terribly frozen, unbelievably at a loss for words when he caught a glimpse of his brother's face. He had never seen Ed so...defeated and heartbroken. It's as if someone took his heart out, and smashed it right in front of him. What could have happened in those few, short minutes he spent tucking Orihime to bed to make his older to appear so broken? There was not even a flicker of light in his eyes. It was terrifyingly worse than the time they were both recovering from the aftereffects of trying to bring their mother back to life. And even then, there was still a tiny flicker of fire in his golden irises. This time...there was no fire, no hope. Ed had given up on something. Which was astonishing in of itself because his brother never gives up. No matter what!

Alphonse had been watching Edward sulk all morning, his discouraged and demoralizing mood barely lifted from last night. He tried talking to his brother, asking him what's wrong, but he was met with disturbing silence. This was worse than the day before! At least, then, Ed had spoken a sentence or two to him before quietly and frustratedly claimed he wanted to be left alone. He thought his brother was doing better after last night. Unfortunately, he could say Ed took a step forward and then two steps back.

Seeing his older brother so eerily withdrawn and disturbingly upset was heartbreakingly sad. Alphonse has been observing Edward and everyone else as they ate breakfast in relative silence. The only sound was Nina's cheery chatter about what she's been up to while staying at the Hughes'. Ed listlessly stared at his meal, seemingly too afraid to glance up from it, which was extremely odd in of itself. There was something strange, different about the expression every time he dares to merely glance in Orihime's direction before quickly averted his eyes away.

An emotion Al had never seen before in his older brother's golden eyes before. Besides the deep longing, there was another emotion hidden behind the intense yearning. A feeling that was full of desperation, an anguish driven desire. A sensation that was inwardly conveying the covetously wishful message of 'look at me'. The words projected so strongly and potently, it resonated with a sense of languish fear and growing attachment. Something that was dark, tormenting, and foreboding. A crushingly possessive yet hopefully aching desire . A passionate, hankering need. The burning, craving need that symbolize just one, single yearning desirous and fiercely possessive emotion. Jealousy.

It was jealousy!

Al finally figured the strong emotion hidden behind his older brother's golden orbs whenever he glances in Orihime's direction. It was jealousy! He was yearning for her affections, desperately craving it. He could process the full message of 'don't look at him, look at me, only me'. He had no clue as to who 'him' referred to.

However, Alphonse was not a clueless idiot. From the few hints and signs he gathered, he figured out that Ed was jealous of someone. Envious of the man who has Orihime's intense adoration and undying devotion. The only question was… Who that guy is? Who is brother so jealous of? Should he ask? No, it would be insensitive and rude if he did. No to mention, incredibly awkward.

But that won't relieve his growing worry and concern. Brother's feelings were hurt. Bad. He's hurt, jealous, angry, and sad. He didn't know how, but the strong urge to fix his brother's problem lingered strongly within him. Ed was his brother. When his older brother was in pain, so was he. He wanted Edward to talk to him. If he had a problem, he wanted to comfort him and help alleviate it.

Maybe Al would try talking to Ed again after breakfast.

"So, what are you guys plan to do now?" Winry asked, staring at Ed, curiously since he's the one who comes up with their next course of action most of the time.

"The colonel assigned me a new mission northeast of here in a town called Neshire," Edward stated, taking a small bite of his omelette. He leisurely pushed his plate aside as he was finished with his breakfast. He grabbed his cup, and gulped down the rest of his orange juice.

"Why Neshire?" the blonde mechanic questioned, raising an inquisitive eyebrow.

Ed frowned, his expression grim and serious. "There's been a series of mysterious disappearances all over Amestris lately. Mustang wants me to investigate Neshire because the gone missing have suddenly increased. Even the soldiers that were sent there to inspect the town have strangely vanished without a trace."

Both Orihime and Winry let out loud gasps in utter shock.

"People are disappearing?" Winry choked out in horror, her blue eyes wide with terror and disbelief. "And you're going to investigate some place dangerous?!" she practically shouted, angrily jumping from her chair. Her blue orbs narrowed in displeasure, glaring dangers at the blond alchemist.

"It's not like I have a choice!" Edward bit back, grumbly. "It's my mission! Besides, I have a bad feeling about this." He balled his fists, tightly. "I want to see for myself what's going on."

"Yeah," Alphonse agreed, solemnly. "People randomly missing. It makes no sense. We just want to check it out."

The Elric brothers shot each other knowing looks. There was no way they could tell Winry they were worried and anxious about the possibility of someone making a Philosopher's Stone since the stone requires hundreds of human lives.

"Are you…? Are you sure they haven't found the body?"

All eyes turned on Orihime. Her brows were scrunched up in distress, and her face was twisted in paralyzing alarm and disquieting uneasiness. This wasn't just her usual feeling of worry spreading out. There was a sense of dread and urgency in her tone.

"You said they haven't found, right?" the auburn haired girl inquired, disconcertment and dismay. "Where were they last seen? Were there any deaths prior to this incident? Any deaths that happened before people started disappearing?"

The healer had an awful feeling about this. She was fearing the possibility of the continuous occurrence of Hollow attacks. Hollow attacks were becoming more and more frequent lately. She doesn't understand why. Why was this happening? What's going on? Luckily, she couldn't sense any Hollows in the area, meaning there weren't any Hollows in Central. As of right now, at least. But if the many disappearances are the work of Hollows and they are sending soldiers to scout the area and inspect the cause for the recent peculiar happenings, then they are just sending them to their deaths! Regular soldiers don't stand a chance against Hollows! They can't even see the soul sucking monsters!

This was bad. Really bad. With the high chance of all this being caused by random Hollow attacks, there's no way she could leave Ed and Al alone to investigate. She will protect them! She would protect all her friends!

The blond alchemist narrowed his golden eyes in suspicion, his discontent and jealousy momentarily forgotten for a moment. What was she so anxious about? She looked positively troubled. What was making her so uneasy and frantic and distraught?

"Big Sis Ori?" Nina spoke, staring at Orihime with fearful, blue eyes. "Is it those monsters again?"

Gray eyes widened with panic and shock. The little girl quickly realized her slip up and covered her mouth in alarm, shooting the ginger haired girl an apologetic look. She wasn't supposed to talk about those scary monsters in front of other people. It's supposed to be a secret between her and big sis.

"What monsters?" Al asked, confused. If he had an eyebrow, he would rise it in wonder. He opted to tilt his head to showcase his puzzlement.

All eyes were on the two girls with various looks of confusion.

"Oh, um…" A nervous laugh escaped from the brown haired girl's lips. "It's nothing, Big Brother Al. I just had a nightmare about a scary monster is all," she said, sheepishly. She's smart enough to know that she couldn't look at the auburn haired healer for help. That would just cause even more suspicion. Orihime silently and discreetly went back to finishing her breakfast. After a couple of bites, she pushed her plate aside.

The suit of armor and the blonde mechanic nodded in understanding. The latter stroking the burnette's head in a comforting manner.

"There's nothing to worry about. I used to have nightmares about monsters all the time when I was your age, Nina. They would go away," she said, smiling, reassuringly.

Nina beamed, and bobbed her head, finishing up her meal.

Throughout the whole exchange, Edward couldn't keep his eyes off Orihime. Something was. He didn't know what. He just had a hunch. The same, unpleasant hunch whenever Orihime begins acting strange.

His mind reeled back to the multiple times the ginger haired girl ran off somewhere on her own. The many times she keeps him in the dark. The numerous instances she got hurt. And she never tells him any of it! He clenched his automail fist. No matter how angry or worried he gets, she's steadfast at keeping her mouth shut. Why? Doesn't she realize he's always there for her whenever she's in trouble? She doesn't have to go off by herself. He wants to be by her side and protect her. Always.

"When do we leave?" Orihime asked, looking at Ed, expectantly. She had already gotten up to put her empty plate and all the others since everyone was done eating by now in the sink to wash.

When gray eyes stared at him, he flashbacked to last night. His heart ached when he did.

"I love you, Ichigo."

His lips thinned, the hurt returning at full force. Those words were torture to his soul.

He turned his head away, too painful to gaze at her any longer. "I… It's me and Al going, Orihime," he said, quietly, trying to hide the tone in his voice. "You can stay here in Central with Nina. It's… It's just for a couple of days." It hurts to see Orihime's face because every time he's reminded of that. He couldn't stand it. This roaring feeling of agony and anguish. He… He just needed time away from her. He just needed time to figure out his feelings.

He stood up, ignoring everyone staring at him with shocked expressions. Because his head was held down, he doesn't even notice Orihime's own sad and pained countenance.

That's why he became startled when he felt a hand tugging his sleeve, stopping halfway towards the door. He glanced over at the individual, and was completely stunned to be met face to face with the healer's teary eyed face. Eyebrows scrunched in concern, he opened his mouth, but she beat him to it.

"You're-you're mad me." It wasn't a question. It was affirmation. A heartbreaking affirmation.

Ed's heart twisted upon seeing Orihime's hurt expression and the drops of tears gliding down her cheeks. He hated seeing her cry. His lips twisted into a feigned light hearted, reassuring grin. "I'm not mad at you, Orihime," he countered, gently.

She sobbed, softly, shaking her head, not believing him. "Yes, you are, Eddie!" she cried, burying her face in the crook of his black jacket. "You haven't even looked at me all morning," she claimed. Golden eyes widened in shock. So, she had been noticing his avoidance of her this entire time? He was an idiot. He should've known she would catch on easily. Orihime's smart and perceptive. "Are you angry at me because of what happened at the party?" she asked, sadly.

That was the only explanation. Ed must be furious at her for kissing him. She knew she shouldn't have done. That it was a major mistake. He must've hated it. Hated that she kissed him. She knew she should've talked about it yesterday. Why did she put it off? He's upset with her because she was being selfish. She shouldn't have ran off like that. She was stupid and selfish.

"Are you mad about the kiss?" she mumbled so lowly, barely anyone could, except Ed since he was right next to her. Golden eyes broadened, completely stunned and speechless. "Did you not like it?"

"No, that's not it!" he yelled, utterly appalled and astonishingly frozen. Though a small blush adorned his cheeks at the mention of the kiss. He grimaced. How could she think that? When she kissed him that night, it made him so happy. So undoubtedly happy. It was one of the happiest moments in his life! His heart swelled with elation. He still fondly recalled the softness of her lips pressed against his, and the shivers pleasurable electrifying sparks flowing through every cell in his body. How could he hate kissing her when he enjoyed oh, so much? "I'm not mad about the kiss," he finally replied, tenderly. "It's not that."

She lifted her head, and stared at him with hopeful, gray eyes. "Really? You're not mad about, Eddie? I know I should've talked to you sooner, but I was just...just so afraid," she admitted, shamefully. "I-I didn't want to lose you."

"You could never lose me! Don't ever think that!" he replied, vehemently. "I could never hate you, or think less of you, Orihime."

"Then why are you mad at me? Tell me what I can do, so I can fix it!" she begged.

Four deadly, heart wrenching words instantly popped into his head.

"I love you, Ichigo."

He shook his head, a soft grin formed. He felt so stupid getting worked up over something so silly. Something he accidentally heard her mumbling incoherently in her sleep.

"It's nothing," he finally answered, gently wrapping his arms around her in a comforting manner. His metal arm snaked across her small waist and his flesh hand, adoringly stroking her silky, auburn hair. "I was upset about something else. Something stupid. You don't need to worry about it. I'm not mad at you, okay?"

She sniffed, burying her face against his jacket once more. "Really? Are you sure?"

"Yes, I'm sure, so stop crying," he said, sweetly, softly petting her hair. "I hate it when you cry." It always sent daggers to heart whenever he sees her teary eyes. She doesn't offer a response. She doesn't need to. He could feel her nod her head against his jacket.

Edward had always been hypersensitive to Orihime's presence. The lovely, strawberry scent of her auburn hair. The warmth of her body radiating through his. He liked holding her in his arms. Just like this. It made him feel so peaceful and warm. He wished he could just stay like this. Forever. Just embracing her.

Orihime felt her own heart pounding, loudly, against her chest. The blood rushed to her face, warming her cheeks and ears. Luckily, her reddening face was hidden by her hair and Ed's jacket.

But still… Why does being in Ed's arms like this feel so nice? Why is her heart pounding so erratically? Of course, being hugged by a guy would easily flustered her, but this was a dissimilar feeling. A warm, delightful, and heavenly feeling. The same giddy, excitable, fuzzy sensation she gets around Ichigo. No, it was different. Distinctly different. It was pleasurable and full of content, more subdued, calming, and raw. And there was this light sense of tranquility and comforting bliss that washed over her similar to a pleasant breeze. So gratifyingly welcoming and cordially relaxing. So tender, gentle, and warm.

Her arms slowly snaked around him, lost in this soothing and comfortable feeling of being embraced like this by Ed. She could sensitively feel his broad shoulders and the taut of his muscles rippling under her gentle touch. The scent of oil and spice gracefully waft into her nose. Truthfully, it was weird, but in a good, graciously satisfying way. She could just...stay like this...a little...longer. Just the two of them. Nothing else mattered. It was just them and this cozy moment. She couldn't fathom what this strange, pleasantly fuzzy feeling in her chest was, but she'd always want to stay by Ed's side.

The sound of Winry loudly clearing her throat snapped the two teens from their own little, warmly bubble. The two, red faced teenagers slowly turned towards their audience, hugely embarrassed. Alphonse, Winry, and Nina giving both Edward and Orihime such knowing and amusing looks. A soft giggling and a sweet, audible 'aww!' escaped from the little, brown haired girl.

Awkward and flustered, Ed and Orihime both immediately yelped and bounced away from each other as if they would burn after realizing they were still enveloped in a tight hug. They had completely forgotten they weren't alone during their intimate moment. They never felt so embarrassed.

"Stop staring, you idiots!" the blond alchemist growled in irritation, trying to mask his embarrassment.

The ginger haired girl, with such a bashful expression, shyly covered her face with her hands, feeling extremely self conscious at the moment. Deafening minutes later, she felt a small tug on her gray skirt.

Nina smiled, innocently. "Big Sis Ori, do you and Big Brother Ed like each other?" she asked, giggling, happily.

The healer 'eeped!' in embarrassment.

"WHAT?!" the blond alchemist exclaimed, wide eyed and greatly flustered. "No, no, no, no, no!" he shouted in rapid fire. "It's not like that!"

"Oh, really?" Winry teased. "You two suddenly forgot all about us, and became lost in your own little world."

"I agree," Al snickered. "If you guys needed some alone time, you should've just ask."

Orihime whimpered, shyly, and Edward roared in frustration.

Everyone laughed, heartily at the two embarrassed teens.

---

The guttural roars and howls of grotesque chimeras sounded throughout the large, white room. Steel bars rustled, loudly against the metal cages. The horrible, pungent stench of rotting decay and grimy filth permeated the room. Dried blood and rust caked the tiled floors and dirty, white walls.

Green eyes stared at the mix and matched animals with curiosity, wonder, and fear. Her brown hair was free of all dirt and grime, and was let down with a neatly tied side ponytail on the left side of her head. Her newly, fresh green summer dress with white stars decorating it reached down to her knees. Her white sandals padded against the tiles as she cautiously walked closer to one of the cages. This one contained a chimera that was a hybrid between a dog and a bat. The main body was that of a black furred canine up to its head and four legs. However, its snout and tail resembled that of a bat along with its large bat like wings, which it uses for flight. Though, it can't at the moment because its locked up.

This particular chimera is the one that intrigued Chloe the most. Just the way it looks, the it was constructed seemed pretty...cool to her. It wasn't as hideous and deformed as the others, which was a plus. In fact, it was so precisely and expertly crafted, it looked like it could actually be a naturally born, rare animal.

The ten year old held a small slab of meat in her hands. Lust allowed her to feed the chimeras since she was so fascinated by them. The smell of raw flesh reached her nose and the meat felt and slimy between her fingers. She slowly and carefully reached over, shoving the piece of meat between the steel bars. She yelped in surprise and unceremoniously fell on her butt when the chimera chomped down on the raw animal flesh. She observed with awestruck amazement as the half dog half bat chimera hungrily tore into its meal.

Chloe giggled in glee. Ever since she was taken in by Lust, she seemed to be smiling a lot more these days. Of course, her past still haunts and terrifies her. At night, she still receives nightmares about her mother's death, and men still frighten and disgust her. That's why she's heavily wary of the palm tree haired guy watching over her. She deliberately made sure to keep her distance from him. But the life she has right now has been better than the hopelessly bleak, street rat life she had a year ago.

"I'm going to give you a name," she smiled at the chimera, tossing another piece of meat in the cage. She had grown quite fond of the half dog half bat creature. It wasn't a frightening or ferocious as the others. Once she got past the mutant oddities, the chimera was actually...kind of cute. Unlike the others, it was playful and mild. "Wait…," she paused, brows furrowed in contemplation. "I don't know if you are a boy or a girl." She crossed her arms, deep in thought. "Ah, I know!" she cried. "I'll just give you name that boys and girls use. How about...Gale? Yeah, Gale! Your name is Gale! Because you have wings that help you fly. Do you like the name 'Gale'?"

The chimera responded by barking, happily, causing Chloe to giggle in return, feeding the half dog half bat chimera once more.

Groaning, Envy rolled his eyes. Why does he have to watch over this brat? Why did Lust bring this kid? She should just killed her before she spills any of their secrets to their enemies. Why does he have to play babysitter to such a pesky brat?

He was just here to observe the chimeras for their next operation. They had to come up with some kind of plan to keep Mustang off their damn trail. The damn colonel has been snooping around a lot lately, trying to find the answers and the true culprit to his best friend's murder. His original plan was just to frame Maria Ross for the murder of Brigader General Maes Hughes, but Lust denied the plan, coldly stating it was way too showy and flashy. And he, begrudgingly, admitted it may stir some animosity within the Flame Alchemist, but it wouldn't do anything between that girl and the Fullmetal Pipsqueak. They needed a more solid, more elaborate scheme that would ultimately kill two birds with one stone. Or three birds, in this case.

But then shapeshifting homunculus was also in charge of babysitting this human kid while Lust took Gluttony to do some scouting and gather information. He clicked his tongue in irritation.

"Hey!" he shouted over to the ten year old girl. He watched with sick amusement as the young girl cringed at the sound of his voice, the fear radiating off her in waves. "What's the point in naming that chimera? It's just a mindless animal. Are you looking for some sort of companionship?" he scoffed, folding his arms. "You humans and your sentimentality."

Chloe just tilted her head in his direction, glaring at him with fearful, distrusting eyes. In response, Envy just shot her a malicious smirk. "What? You've got something to say, human?"

"My name is Chloe," she whispered, quietly in suppressed anger, gritting her teeth. When was Lust coming back? She hated this man! She hated all men! They were nothing, but disgusting, vile creatures. They are cruel and barbaric, and hurt innocent people, like her mommy.

"What was that?" the palm tree haired guy taunted, mockingly. "I couldn't hear you. You need to speak up." He loudly stomped his feet, causing the brown haired girl to squeak in terror and the various chemiras to roar and grumble in agitation. "Pfft! You humans. Such frightened, pathetic creatures."

"Envy!" a sultry, feminine voice suddenly rang out through the room. "Knock it off." Both the aforementioned homunculus and the young girl craned their heads towards the entryway. Lust was standing there with her arms crossed over her large bosoms, Gluttony was right behind, childishly sucking on his fatty forefinger.

Envy huffed, uncaringly, losing interest in ridiculing the little girl. "You're back already? So, what's up? Any news?"

"No, nothing particular," Lust sighed, bored, casually leaning her body against the wall.

A sad wail echoed throughout the room as Chloe swiftly dashed in the female homunculus's direction, crystal rivers of tears streaming down her face. "Lust!" the young girl, tiny hands clinging onto the woman's dark dress. "That tree guy… I don't like him!" she whined. "He's mean and ugly!"

An angry, red tick mark formed at the base of Envy's forehead in response of that remark. "You little brat…!" he sneered. "Just who the hell are you calling 'ugly'?!"

The brown haired girl shrieked in sheer terror, and his behind Lust's leg, minding her distance from Gluttony as well. "He's scary!" she shouted, pure loathing and unadulterated hate etched in her tone. "I hate him! Make him go away, Lust!" She buried her teary face in the dark haired woman's skirt, causing wet spots to form. "I detest men! They are gross and very cruel! Why do you put up with him?"

"Ugh!" Envy groaned, rolling his eyes in disgust from witnessing such a pitiful display. "Quit your pathetic blubbering, you brat!" His purple hues stared at his 'sister' with extreme exasperation. "Why the hell do you put with this kid, Lust? Get rid of her already! If you won't, I'll do it!" Sparks of red energy began to discharge from his body.

Chloe squeaked once more, burying her face deeper into the skirt of Lust's dark dress, her whole body trembling in absolute fear.

Lust shot Envy a glare. "That's enough, Envy," she hissed at her 'brother'. She tenderly rubbed the child's head to calm her down. This feeling of protectiveness was weird and new to the female homunculus. Where did this sense of maternal instinct come from?

The shapeshifter growled, not having it. "What's wrong with you, Lust? Have you lost your mind? You can't keep taking care of this brat! What would Father think?"

Gluttony whimpered at the mention of their father and creator. "Father would get angry," he muttered, fearfully. "I don't want him to get mad at Lust." He gazed at Lust with pleading, beady, white eyes. "Maybe I should just eat the little girl? Can I, Lust? Please?"

The female homunculus clamped her hand down on the chubby's head. "No, you may not, Gluttony," she said, sternly.

"Aww!" he whined, childishly sticking his meaty forefinger in his mouth. "But I'm so hungry!"

"We find you something else to snack on. This child is off limits," she spoke with finality in her voice. Her dark purple gaze turned towards her other 'brother'. "Father won't necessarily care what we do as long as we still follow the plan."

Envy clicked his tongue in annoyance. "You have a point. Father didn't care when Wrath married Emily Purgis. Although, part of it was done to keep up appearances. The fact that Wrath got to choose says a lot." He scoffed, indignantly. "Fine! Keep the brat. Don't expect me to protect the little worm. That's your responsibility, Lust."

"I wasn't expecting you to," Lust drawled. "Plus, the girl doesn't like you anyway."

Envy tsked, crossing his arms, and walking away.

Lust continued, changing the subject. "I haven't gotten any new information from Jean Havoc." She sighed, clearly annoyed and frustrated. "He's either a clueless idiot or a hopeless hustler." She strolled across the room, her heels clicking against the tiled floor. Chloe stuck as to her as possible similarly to a frightened puppy clinging to its protective and nurturing mother. "We already planned to let the mod souls take over whatever happens in Central. For now, let's just leave it at that."

The shapeshifter shrugged. "Fine by me. I'll see what I can do about the girl and the pipsqueak." He hummed, thoughtfully before sinister smirk graced his lips, showcasing a row of pearly white teeth. "Hey! Remember when Pride took over that spiritual sensing alchemist in a small town south of here for an experimentation? How about we use that?"

A malicious smile spread across Lust's own dark red lips. "Oh, good idea. Nothing spreads enmity and antipathy more than jealousy, resentment, and despair."

The shapeshifter chuckled, evilly, a cruel scheme already forming.

---

Orihime stared at the window with a solemn expression on her face. They were on a train ride to Neshire to solve the mysterious disappearance case. A whole day had passed, and it was already early morning.

As they neared their destination, she started to become anxious. She could sense an evil aura the closer they got. It didn't feel like a Hollow's, but she couldn't be too sure. She understood that some Hollows have the power to conceal their spiritual pressure. But, one thing's for sure, this was definitely not the work of a human. That means it was up to her and her alone to put a stop to this wicked creature's monstrous misdeeds.

"Orihime, are you alright?"

She snapped out of her musings to face Alphonse who was sitting across from her. Edward was sprawled next to him, asleep. Al gazed at the auburn haired healer with a concerned expression.

"You've been tense and serious this whole train ride," Al spoke, worriedly. "Is something bothering you?"

"Oh! I'm fine!" she laughed, sheepishly. Her gray orbs gazed down at the sleeping Nina in her lap. A wry smile spread across her lips as she gently stroked the young girl's brown hair. "I'm just…" She stared back at the suit of armor with sad eyes. "All those missing people… I wonder what happened to them? Who or what took them away and why?" Although, she already knew the answer. If it was work of a Hollow or some other dark spirit being, then the disappearing people most likely had their souls devoured. It was the only explanation.

He nodded his head in understanding. If he had a face, he would be frowning. "I know what you mean. We might not be able to save the people who have gone missing," he answered, truthfully, no matter how painful it might be. "But we can stop the person responsible before they hurt any more innocent citizens!" he finished with a strong sense of determination in her tone.

The ginger haired girl hummed and bobbed her head, equally motivated to stop the person for causing innocent people to suffer.

A loud groan caught the two's attentions. Their gaze drifted towards Edward, who yawned, noisily, and stretched his arms as far as they could go.

"Good morning, Eddie!" the busty healer greeted hm with a sweet smile.

"Morning, Orihime. Al," he grumbled, groggily. He rubbed his tired, golden eyes. He lazily gazed out the window. "Are we there yet?" he asked.

"No, not yet," the suit of armor replied. "But, according to the train conductor, we should be there by mid morning. So, just a couple more hours."

A roaring rumble sounded out. The slight blush on the blond alchemist's cheeks indicated he was the culprit.

Al's glowing, red eyes slitted, cheekily. "Brother, did you just wake up because you were hungry," he said, the smirk in his tone presented itself as clear as day. "Or were you hoping to taste Orihime's food first thing in the morning."

Ed's blush grew larger. "Shut up, Al!" he growled, indignantly, feeling completely embarrassed. "It-it's not like that!"

Orihime placed a hand to her lips, giggling in amusement. "This is nice. It's nice to see you guys bickering again. It's...refreshing."

The boys stopped, looking at her, owlishly before chuckling and Ed letting out a boyish grin.

This atmosphere of quiet bliss was fresh and welcoming. It's been quite a while since they've been able to laugh so happily and carefree like this. It was great to see that everything was back to how it was. There was no tense awkwardness or tentative anxiety. Just a relaxing, peaceful morning. This tranquil and warm mood is exactly what Ed needed to him alleviate his lingering doubts and constant worries. Although, he still had a fearful dream about Orihime leaving him for Ichigo, they weren't as heartbreaking as yesterday because...she came back! And that made him incredibly happy! Happy that she remembered the promise she made to him. A promise to stay by his side until he and Al got their bodies back.

"Nina sure made a fuss when we were leaving," Al chuckled, breaking the reposeful silence. "She wouldn't let us leave without her."

"When did Nina become so stubborn lately?" Ed questioned, blond brows furrowed.

Orihime smiled, fondly at the memory.

(FLASHBACK)

"No! No! No! I want to come!" Nina cried, clinging, desperately to the gray skirt of Orihime's school uniform.

Edward and Alphonse eyed the young girl with stunned, baffled, and pensive looks. The Elric brothers and the healer were already packed and ready to board the next train to Neshire. Al had gotten the tickets a little over an hour.

However, they told the news, they weren't expecting this. Winry decided to stay in a Central a couple more days to visit the Hughes, then head back to Rush Valley afterwards to continue her apprenticeship with Mr. Garfiel. She's been gone for far too long. She received a call from her customers just this morning, and they were anxious, restless, and excited for her to come back as soon as possible.

Nina, on the other hand, was throwing a massive temper tantrum. This act greatly left Ed and Al speechless. They have never seen the seven year old girl act like this. It was quite...nonplussing. To see the normally sweet and cheerful Nina throw an angry fit was somewhat mystifying to say the least. The brown haired girl had always been so happy and innocent.

They bemusingly wondered if Gracia was mentioning this when she puckishly and humorously stated that Nina could be difficult sometimes. Mostly when it comes to Orihime.

"Big sis, take me with you!" she pleaded, staring at the auburn haired girl with wide, puppy dog eyes and sad, pouty lips.

Orihime sighed, weakly and yet somewhat touched that she wanted to come with her. She crouched downward until she was at eye level with the young girl. "Nina, listen," she calmly addressed the little girl, placing a gentle hand on her head. "I can't take you with me, okay? It's too dangerous. You stay here with Ms. Gracia, alright?"

"No, don't leave me!" Nina whined. "I want to go, too! I want to stay with you, Big Sis Ori!" She impatiently bounced on feet. "Can I? Can I? Pretty, pretty please?"

Gray eyes glanced back at the brothers, helplessly, silent asking for their assistance. Al took the initiative.

"Nina, you can't come with us. We do some very dangerous work," he explained, trying to get through to the frowning and displeased girl.

"I can stay out of trouble!" she argued. "I won't get in the way of your work. I promise!" Her blue eyes started to water as she sniffled, sadly.

The three teens looked uncomfortable upon witnessing Nina on the verge of crying. Finally, Ed gave in.

"Alright! You can come with us, Nina. But, just this once, alright?" he conceded, shooting the brown haired girl a serious look.

Nina beamed. "Yay!" she cheered, happily and triumphantly, excitedly jouncing up and down.

The other three gave wry smiles. What are they going to do with her? Who knew that Nina could be so stubborn?

(END OF FLASHBACK)

Orihime could only stare, warmly at the still sleeping girl. Lately, Nina had become attached to her.

"Do you really think it was a good idea to bring Nina along, brother, Orihime?" Alphonse asked, worriedly.

Edward shrugged, though his expression showed that he was just as concerned. After all, they couldn't guarantee they would be able to protect the little girl from harm. "Don't know, Al. But Nina sure put up one hell of a fight over it. Who knew she could be so damn stubborn? Orihime, do you think she's starting to hit that rebellious phase?" he questioned, his attention now the auburn haired girl.

Conversely though, the aforementioned girl gazed out the window. She wasn't any more attention to the conversation. There was dark, foreboding aura floating about. It was definitely near the direction they were currently heading in. This spirit energy was more evil than any ordinary Hollow. It was incredibly foul and ominous. The closer they got, the more she felt the hairs on the back stand on end, and her stomach twist in uncomfortable knots. What if does turn out to be something far worse than a Hollow? Would she be able to defeat all by herself? The very thought caused her to bite the inside of lip in uneasiness and perturbed.

Now, she considered that it was best that Nina stuck with her. With the mysterious dissppearances, it was way too risky. Especially if Hollows are involved. Since Hollows are known to attack and eat people with high concentration of spirit energy. She certainly couldn't leave the little, brown haired girl in Central. Not when she could potentially be targeted any day or any moment. She was kind of grateful that Nina was tagging along, otherwise, she would constantly worry about her.

She let out a startled yelp when she felt something cold and hard lightly poke her cheek. Her surprised, gray orbs landed on Edward, who was staring back at her with blatant confusion written all over his face.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to startle you," he said, apologetically. He then frowned, expression etched in concern. "What's gotten you so jumpy anyway?"

Orihime blinked, owlishly, wondering if it was a good idea to speak to him about her fears or keep it to herself. She contemplated her choices.

"Orihime," the blond alchemist spoke in a stern tone as if knowing what she was thinking. "There's something bothering you, isn't there? Tell us." The two brothers gazed at her, intently.

The ginger haired girl inwardly sighed, not having much choice. "What's the plan?" she decided to ask. "I mean, once we reach Neshire?"

The blond alchemist crossed his arms, pensively. "First, we ask around."

"There might be someone who knows more about what's going on," the soul bonded suit of armor added.

She nodded, weakly, offering a tentative smile. That's what she was worried about. What if the townsfolk don't know anything? After all, they can't exactly see souls and Hollows. She breathed out a crestfallen sigh. Why haven't any Soul Reapers established a contact with this world?

A small noise resounded, and they all witnessed as Nina slowly stirred awake. The little girl stretched her small body before sitting up, and rubbed her groggy eyes. "Good morning," she mumbled, sluggishly.

Orihime smiled at her. "Good morning, Nina! Had a good sleep?"

Mmhmm," she bobbed her head.

"Morning, Nina," Alphonse greeted the young girl.

Ed nodded his head. "Morning." His golden gaze drifted towards Orihime with expected and hungry eyes. His stomach growled once more, indicating its impatience over not having any food to satisfy its needs yet. "So…? When do we eat?" he requested, eagerly.

Al sighed, rolling his figurative eyes in exasperation.

Orihime brightened as her lips turned upwards. She grabbed her pink bag and unzipped it. She pulled out a lunchbox from within, and zipped the bag back up before setting it aside. She unwrapped the yellow cloth covering it, and uncovered the box to reveal the layers of sandwiches hidden within. They were sweet and sour sauce egg sandwiches with pickles, mashed potatoes, and green bean jelly.

The blond alchemist mouth instantly watered, and the auburn haired girl giggled at his zestful enthusiasm. He was like a hungry, excited puppy. "Here." She handed him a sandwich. He grabbed it, eyes twinkling with glee. She passed one over to Nina, who happily took it, muttering a 'thanks, big sis'.

Ed didn't waste any time gobbling it down. He hummed in delight. Orihime's cooking was the best!

"Ugh… Brother, you are such a messy eater!" Al complained, disgust written all over his voice.

"Shut up, Al!" Ed fired back, hotly between a mouthful of food.

"Ed, don't talk with your mouth full!" the suit of armor reprimanded his older brother.

The Fullmetal Alchemist rolled his eyes in annoyance, grumpily continuing to enjoy his breakfast in silence.

Nina began singing to herself, glancing out the window. A very strangely familiar song that Orihime hadn't heard since she was a little kid.

Kagome, Kagome

Crouch little bird inside your cage

When oh when will he get out?

Out before the light of dawn?

Crane and turtle slipped and fell

Who is behind you? Can you tell?

Orihime's eyes widened at the song while Edward and Alphonse both wore weirded out expression. Nina sang it in such a happy and cheery tone, yet the lyrics were eerily creepy and disturbingly ominous.

"Nina…," Al started, slowly. "Where did you learn that song?" he asked, perturbed.

"Who taught it to you?" Ed frowned. There was an ounce of protective vibe coming from.

"A woman's singing!" she cheerily replied without a beat.

Ed raised an inquisitive, blond eyebrow. Al tilted his own helmet head in confusion. "A woman singing?" the former questioned, utterly incredulous.

Orihime could understand the boys' dubious disbelief because not even she could hear this person's voice. Although, it wasn't that surprising if she considered the fact that this 'woman's' singing was laced with spirit energy, then it wouldn't be too for Nina to hear her. Nina was becoming more and more attuned with the spirit world as the days passed. She even started to pick up on spiritual pressures, and differentiate between various types. The question remains though… Why could the brown haired girl hear the woman's voice, and she couldn't? Was she somehow being targeted? The very thought made her nerves prick with anxiety. That would mean the culprit is already aware of their presence.

Blue eyes blinked in confusion and wonder. "You don't hear the singing, big brothers?" she inquired, puzzled. She turned to Orihime. "You hear it, too, right, big sis?"

Disappointedly, the auburn haired girl shook her, causing the little girl to pout in perplexity.

Eventually, Edward and Alphonse just shrugged their shoulders, inwardly thinking that Nina probably just imagined someone singing. Kids tend to do that. Let their imaginations roam free.

Orihime, however, frowned, deeply, her contemplations unsettling. She had to be more alert now than ever. Who knows when they would attack?

She balled her fist, tightly, gray orbs glimmering with resolute determination. She had to protect her friends, no matter what!

---

"Well, here we are," Edward stated, boredly.

The group of four have finally arrived at their destination, Neshire. There was a disquieting atmosphere surrounded the town, giving it a depression and desolate aura. This just showed how much these disappearances affected the townspeople. It was such a sad and lonely sight.

"This town is scary," Nina commented, fearfully and timorously, not used to such a gloomy and dispiriting setting. She tightly gripped onto Orihime's hand for security and comfort. The older girl smiled down and squeezed her hand back to reassure her that as long as she was around, nothing would happen to her.

"First we should find an inn or hotel to stay in," Ed suggested.

"Good idea," Al agreed. "Then we should ask around to find any clues."

"Right."

Unexpectedly, Nina perked up and suddenly took off somewhere. The other three were utterly stunned when she ran off without warning. The ginger haired girl was the first to recover.

"Nina, wait up!" she called out to her, chasing after her.

"Nina, stop!"

"Don't run off by yourself!"

Both Al and Ed shouted, respectively, following after them.

Unbeknownst to them, two figures observed them going in a different direction than the town. One was a tall guy with fiery red hair and dark brown eyes, and the other was a slender woman with magenta hair and teal green eyes.

"Hmm," the woman hummed, thoughtfully. "It seems that they are going in the direction the spiritual pressure we sensed earlier is coming from."

The man angrily tsked. "Damn! I was really hoping to let off some steam. Conceited bastards…!" he growled. The woman could completely understand her companions anger and distaste. "Should we go after them?"

She shook her arms, scowling. "No, let them handle. It's not like it's any of our business. We just came here out of curiosity because of all the rumors."

The redhead nodded in agreement. There was no need for them to stick their necks out to help ordinary people. Even being in this town made him sick to his town.

"Let's just go home," the magenta haired woman recommended, dully, feeling bored staying in this miserable town any longer. It was so wretched and dismal. "There's nothing for us here."

She walked away with the red haired man followed after her.

---

Edward, Alphonse, and Orihime continued to chase Nina into a know danky forest. "Nina, hold on! Where are you going?" Ed shouted, being mindful not to throw profanities at the little girl.

The aforementioned girl came to a sudden halt at a crossroads. They were grateful for the minute they were able to catch their breaths. Al, being the only one who wasn't tired, stalked up to her the young girl.

The little girl frowned in confusion, too distracted to hear him.

Orihime was really starting to become anxious and tense right now. This ominous spiritual pressure… It was getting closer. Her apprehension was on the raise they walked closer to the source.

Was Nina, unknowingly, leading them to the person responsible? Or was the culprit wittingly using Nina to lead them to a trap? She nervously bit her lip. Whatever it was, this person was definitely not a normal human. Should she warn Ed and Al?

Edward took notice of the ginger haired healer's distress. He treaded up to her, placing his metal hand on her left shoulder. She almost jumped at the sudden contact, her senses on high alert and her heart thundering in slight panic against her chest.

She breathed a sigh of relief when she realized it was just her blond friend. She placed a hand to her heart, willing it to calm down. "Eddie! You startled me!" she remarked, light heartedly.

Ed frowned at that. Orihime has been way too jumpy lately. What's gotten into her? She's been so tense ever since they headed to Neshire. "Orihime," he interjected, voice laced with worry and somber. "What's wrong? Why are you so nervous?" He questioned in such a stern tone, indicating he wanted the truth and she was not getting out of this.

The auburn haired girl's lips tilted downwards, looking positively unsure if she should tell him about her anxiety and fears. She honestly didn't want him to put them in any unnecessary danger. However, feeling his hand on her shoulder, gave her this strangely calming sense of courage and renewed confidence. It was like his presence had such a strong, lasting affect on her.

Ed's golden eyes widened and his ears warmed when Orihime took his automail hand in her smaller, more delicate hands and placed it, tenderly touched on her left cheek. She knew it was his steel prosthetic, despite the white gloves he wore because of how cool it felt against her skin. She smiled, warmly at him, which caused his heart to race.

"I'm sorry for worrying you guys, Eddie," she confessed. "I've been on edged recently. I felt someone's been watching us ever since we were headed to Neshire."

Ed scowled, body tensing up as if preparing for a fight. "Someone's been spying on us?" A sense of disgust and aversion hit him. What if they weren't spying on them, but rather than her? The fact that there could be a stalker nearby made his blood boil.

"Well, it could just be my imagination," she replied, although, she was uncertain if that was the case. After all, she sure that someone was using Nina to steer them here. "I just got so anxious. But, with you here, Eddie, by my side, it reassures me," she softly said, her dainty fingers tracing his steely ones. "I sincerely don't know why. I just… I just like having you by my side. Your presence calms me."

It was no lie. She doesn't know why, but it always warmed her soul. Having Ed near. She never felt sad or lonely, which was oddly strange since she was still separated from Ichigo, Tatsuki, and all of her friends. Maybe it had to do with the determination shining so fiercely behind his golden orbs. The sheer determination that reminded her so fondly of Ichigo. No, it wasn't that. It was different. Different than the raging emotions she gets from Ichigo. This one, although, causing her heartbeat to speed up slightly, was fleeting and comfortable. If her feelings around Ichigo were that of a roaring tsunami, then being around Edward was the same as riding through a gentle ocean wave. A raging, hot fire versus a crackling, wispy flame. Loving, brown eyes in contrast to alluring, golden ones.

She inwardly gasped. Why was she feeling like this? Why was she comparing Ichigo and Edward? She doesn't have any of that sort of feelings for Ed. She knows she doesn't. She only loves Ichigo. Her heart only belongs to her beloved strawberry. Was the...kiss still affecting her? She thought she had gotten over it. It was a fluke. A mistake. It was wrong. So, why was she so enticed by it? The very image of it caused her cheeks to slightly warm up, and her heart to pound, erratically. Why?

Ed offered her a boyish grin, his own face lightly heating up and his heart still softly thumping in rapture that he could make her feel that way. Her gentle smiles always made him feel so at ease and relaxed. Each smile touched his heart and made him genuinely happy to see Orihime smile. Watching her smile infatuated him to smile. It was intoxicating and contagious and he loved it.

Out of nowhere, an unusual mist evaporated through the aura. The blond alchemist let out a bewildered gasp when Orihime mysteriously vanished. Even Al and Nina were gone! What the hell was going on?!

Edward strolled, aimlessly and cautiously, a fair amount of distance. Conversely, none of his friends were nowhere near in sight.

"Hey!" he yelled out into the foggy forest. "Al! Orihime! Nina! Where did you guys go?" He trudged further in, fretfully calling out the names of his little brother and friends. It did not like this fog. It was strange and gave off a foreboding sense of danger. His senses were already on red alert in case of an attack.

He then heard the familiar, soft and happy sounds of someone giggling. It was Orihime! He could recognize her gentle voice, her sweet laughter anywhere.

"Orihime!" he called out to her, following the sound of her voice. He walked closer and closer until he was able to spot her silhouette out in the distance. He was prepared to calm down and relax when he detected that she was with another man.

"Who was he?" Ed wondered, glaring at the newcomer getting a little too friendly with Orihime for his liking. The guy wasn't anyone he recognized. He seemed to be about his age. Maybe Orihime's, if he was being more accurate. His mood turned foul and sour when he immediately took notice of how freakishly tall the guy was. Damn! Six feet? He was envious of this person already.

The boy's other physical features included a head full of spiky orange hair and brown eyes. He had a round face and his jaw was angular. His nose was sharp and pointy. He harbored a very lean and muscular physique.

What he really wanted to know was… Why the hell was this bastard holding Orihime's hand?! A foul taste of bitterness and revulsion pierced his tongue. He had absolutely no right to be touching her so intimately! A green snake was coiling at the base of his snake. Then a fierce sense of protectiveness and rage hit him. What if this was the guy that Orihime mentioned was stalking her? His anger just increased tenfold. He viciously stomped forward, ready to give this guy a piece of his damn mind. That was until…

Until…

Orihime leaned in, tenderly wrapping her arms around the orange haired boy's neck, and planting a sweet kiss on his lips. Suddenly, all the fight he had instantly vanished from his body. A sharp stab struck at his heart, shattering it with a single strike. Everything he built up this morning… Just when he was beginning to recover from his aching pain of what transpired between them a few days ago… Gone in an instant.

Why? Why was she kissing him?

The guy wrapped his strong arms around her waist and kissed her. He hopelessly observed as mere minutes passed, the kiss became more passionate. He could feel the adoration and love flooding from it.

No… No…! Stop it! Stop kissing, dammit!

He had half a mind to break them up, but… But… He was trapped, frozen at the spot. His feelings were hurt and betrayed once more. He fisted his chest, the place where his heart lay in a defeated heap of mess. The agonizing pain was returning with a vengeance.

They pulled away, staring at each other, so lovingly. Orihime smiled. Not her usual smiles, but one of her rare, soft, and radiant smiles. A smile she only has when she's fondly thinking about Ichigo.

"I love you, Ichigo."

That was a total punch to his gut. His eyes widened. So, this was Ichigo? The guy Orihime admired? The guy who rested so affectionately in her every thoughts? The guy Orihime was in love with?

The green eyed monster ruthlessly taunted him. Mercilessly slashing at his already shattered heart.

This was the answer he wanted, didn't he?

The monster callously mocked him.

He didn't bother denying the creature's mean spirited ridicule.

"You're going to choose him over me, aren't you, Orihime?"

He laughed, so pathetically and miserably. Nothing but heart wrenching despair escaping his mouth.

That was such a stupid question to ask. Of course she was! Why the hell was he watching this? He didn't need to see this! He already knew… He clenched his fist, the bitterness and devastation swirled within him was unbearable. He was acutely aware that Orihime's heart belonged to Ichigo.

There was absolutely no place left for him inside her heart. The heart crushing revelation rendered him feeling a raging torrent of grief stricken anguish and tormented suffering waves leathered with despair and regret.

How does it feel? How does it feel to have his heart broken once again by the same girl who rejected him so soundly the other day?

A cruel and mocking laughter erupted from the sadistic monster.

Orihime and Ichigo embraced each other, so tightly, locked in the other's warmth and love.

It was...painful. It hurts…! It was...unbearable! This agonizing torment was just too much! He couldn't watch this any longer! Another moment was another excruciating sting to his heart. He collapsed onto his knees, eyeing them with such a miserable and gut wrenching gaze.

Hearing them giggle and laugh so carefreely and joyfully was searing torture to his ears. Orihime's expression when they kissed was completely different than it was right now. Instead of the horror stricken guilt and shameful remorse after she kissed him, she was shining with ecstatic happiness and such intense infatuation. There was no tears of sorrow or regret. Her gray eyes shimmered with passionate warmth and endearing love.

He really was a hopeless fool. She would never look at him like that. He distressingly pulled at his hair. A silent, dejected, anguished filled scream left him. She would never… She would never…! The sound of glass breaking was the despairingly soul crushing representation of his heart shattering into a million pieces. The painful, agonizing sting of rejection was soul crushingly afflicting. He should've realized sooner to spare himself of this suffering and heartbreak.

He stopped, slowly regained his footing. There was no need to watch this anymore.

Ed slowly left the two alone, walking away, absolutely heartbroken, crushingly rejected, and hopelessly depressed. His completely downcast expression, his shoulders slumped in utter defeat, and his bangs despondently shadowing his face.

He was such...a hopeless idiot.

---

"Eddie! Al! Nina! Where are you guys?" Orihime worriedly called out for her friends. The ginger haired girl had been walking around, searching for her missing friends for hours now. She tried pinpointing for each of their spirit energy, but somehow this ominous fog was blocking her senses.

This fog… It was no ordinary fog. This sinister evil floating in the midst of it… Someone else produced this mist.

Panic and fear shimmered within her. If her senses blocked, there was no way for her to tell when she or one of her friends might be attacked. They could be in danger right now for all she knew, and she would be none the wiser.

She hastily picked up her pace. She had to hurry and find her friends before something terrible happens. She let out a surprised yelp when the ground collapsed underneath her. A startled scream escaped past her lips as she tumbled towards the bottom before finally landing roughly on her butt.

"Ow!" Orihime moaned in pain, tenderly rubbing her injured bottom. "Where am I?" Her gray hues glanced and to her shock and horror to find herself in an eerily familiar white room. A slither of paralyzing fear struck at her heart. The pure whiteness of the room greatly signified the sheer emptiness and depressingly lonely aura that it possessed. There barely any furniture. Only a couch where she could sleep and rest, and a table to place her meals on. Right across from the door, on the opposite wall, was a small window. The window was layered with metal bars resembling a prison cell, and just past it was the endless black sky and the dreary, white moon.

A dreadful panic instantly filled her, considerably shaking her to the core.

No! No! No! Why was she here? Why was she back here? To the place that brought her nothing but endless nightmarish terror and horrifically traumatic experiences. Everyday was a fight for her sanity between all the abuse and torture.

The burning stinging of tears began to prick the corner of her eyes.

Why was she here again? She escaped! Her friends rescued her! Aizen was in prison? So, why?! Why was she back to the place that ruthlessly tormented her so mercilessly?!

She could feel her heartbeat racing and her breathing becoming ragged. The air around her felt so cold, making her go numb. Water droplets started hitting the floor one by one, steadily increasing in frequency and velocity. Chilly beads of sweat started pouring from her forehead.

"This couldn't be real. This couldn't be real. This couldn't be real." That mantra raged inside her mind in a bitterly harsh and grievously ferocious typhoon. She held her head in agony.

Maybe she was just having one of those nightmares. Yeah, that's it. This was a dream. A really bad dream. All she had to do was wake up, right? Right? She just needed to snap herself out of this nightmare. To break out of this dark, twisted illusion.

Orihime almost jumped in startled fear when the door began to creak open. Anxiety grew behind gray orbs as she watched with bated breath as the door swung open in an agonizingly slow process.

At first, there was nothing in sight. Just an endless pitch black. Everything slowed down. Time came to a near frozen halt. A drop of cold sweat hung on her forehead. Her heartbeat accelerated, eyes glued to the opened door, uncannily unable to peer away from its dark depths. All sounds seemingly ceased to exist. The small droplet now gliding down the side of her face in a deliberately slow pace. She licked her suddenly dry lips. Her fingers lightly curled into the unfeeling floor, but her hands were too numb to feel a thing. The slight tremors in her body wouldn't stop, no matter how much she tried desperately will it to. The cloudy sensation of terrorizing, bone chilling anxiety and unnerving, senseless panic was all that flooded through. A sense of dreadful anticipation swarmed her.

Who was it? Who was behind the door? Something was informing her that she should know who was standing in the darkness, but her mind wouldn't accept it.

Then, in an instant, her gray eyes widened in petrified horror when they immediately discerned the person stepping out of the shadows. Her body began trembling in nonstop fear. She recognized that ghostly, pale white skin and soulless, green eyes anywhere.

The droplet of sweat hit the floor with an earth shattering splash.

Ulquiorra!

How could she ever forget the face, right behind Aizen, that tormented her so coldly and maliciously? "This can't be real… This can't be real. This can't be real! This can't be real!" She saw it! He was supposed to be dead! Ichigo killed him!

"Woman, what are you doing down on the floor?" His cold, unfeeling voice chilled her down to her very bones.

Orihime froze, sheer horror written all over her face, and she was paralyzed with utter disbelief and intense dread. Her breathing became labored, and her throat was hoarse from dryness.

"This...couldn't be...real…?" That was what her heart kept telling her, but her mind was at a standstill, glued at the figure before her, frighteningly believing what was in front of her very eyes.

"What are still doing on the floor?" Ulquiorra's voice droned, unemotionally. "Are you crying over your friends? Stop it. They should have known coming here was pointless. You humans always enjoy indulging in such pointless things. If I were you, I would be angry. Angry at their foolishness for coming here when they are such weak, pathetic creatures. They should have realized they never had a chance of winning."

There it was. The verbal abuse she received on a constant daily basis by her jailer. She couldn't understand if Ulquiorra was intentionally saying such horrible things just to spite her. Every word cut as deep as jagged wound. Every single, cold remark was just a reminder that this was all her fault that Ichigo and the others are suffering out there. Was that his goal? To make her feel guilty? To imply ? Was he aware of it? Was he purposefully doing it just to break her?

Orihime had always been soft hearted and compassionate. The quickest way to attack her sense of self worth? Taunt her with her friends' well beings. Especially Ichigo's. She's already suffering from a severe guilty conscience. Just cruel reminder that she was too weak to prevent any of this from happening.

She tried to stay her ground, despite the rapid waterworks flooding down her face. "That's enough!" she yelled at her captor. My friends aren't dead!"

Ulquiorra scoffed at her pathetic figure. "What'd you want me to say? Want me to tell you that your friends would be alright? Humans are such weak creatures. Always need to be reassured. And why should a traitor like you care about them?"

Orihime gasped in utter shock. "I'm not… I'm not a traitor…," she retorted, weakly.

Ulquiorra's soulless, green eyes just stared at her, blankly. "A person who serves Lord Aizen is considered a traitor from their perspective. Am I wrong?" They way he looked her caused her blood to freeze and her breathing to become hard and labored. Traitor? She wasn't a traitor. She wasn't a...traitor…!

The auburn haired girl stared down at herself to see that her school uniform at change into her white Arrancar gown. Her gray orbs widened in shock and horror. A silent, panicked scream filled her head.

No.

No!

No!

This can't be happening!

Hot tears gushing down her face with a force of the mini flood. Her throat burned, uncontrollably. It became unbearably raw and dry. Her vision was blurry. Her heart heavy. Her chest felt tight and constricted, and her compressed stomach ached and churned, the muscles beginning to clamp so it felt like she might throw up. The world became spinning around her. Her body wouldn't stop shaking.

"Orihime," a familiar smooth and muscular. She instantly recognized that voice. The voice of her beloved.

However… A shiver of fear ran down her spine. His tone was dark and distorted. It caused a torrent of guilt to bubble up in the pit of her stomach. He sounded disgusted and hateful, and it was directed at...her.

The ginger haired girl didn't dare to look him, in fear of him giving her the same look his tone portrayed. But alas, she did anyone. And when she did, her gray eyes broadened in guilt stricken horror and gut wrenching despair.

Ichigo stood before her in broken form, glaring down at her. The way he looked the moment Ulquiorra blew a hole in his chest His body beaten and damaged. The only piece of his shihakusho covering his waist and legs laid in a tattered mess. The only difference was that his skin was pure white and he wore his transformed Hollowfied mask.

His black eyes were almost lifeless yet they were shooting her an accusatory glare. "You did this to me." His voice was cold. So icy cold. "Because of you…! Because of you, I ended up in this mess! Because of you, I lost my powers! You ruined my life! YOU KILLED ME, ORIHIME!"

He didn't have to tell her twice. She… She hated herself, too! She was weak, pathetic, and useless. A day hasn't gone by where she hasn't blamed herself for what happened.

Her eyes fixed on him with absolute horror and her blood ran cold when a sickly familiar red liquid oozed out the hole in Ichigo's chest. She could only stare, half frozen and unable to speak, to terrified to do so. She felt the blood hit the palms of her hands. Each warm drop that hit her caused her stomach to twist, uncomfortably and her throat to tighten as she frightfully held back her tears. The smell, the smell of Ichigo's blood burned her nose, making her sick and nauseated. She wanted to scream in anguished filled agony, but her mind was left numb, her eyes vacant with an ugly amount of guilt and despair. An apology was so desperately needed, but the words died in her throat. She was drawing a blank, not knowing what to say. How could she even begin to apologize? This was her fault! Ichigo got hurt because of her! All of it was HER fault!

More faces came into view. They were all shadowy and distorted, but there were some she recognized and caused her heart to squeeze and her body to shake. The faces of Rukia, Tatsuki, Chad, Uryu, Youruichi, and Mr. Urahara gave off various expressions of coldness to disappointment to disgust.

"Why are you so weak?"

"You're useless."

"I told you to stay off the battlefield."

"Do you realize what you've done, Orihime?! Ichigo's lost his powers because of you!"

Their voices were all jumbled and incoherent, warped and deformed. She couldn't figure out who's was who's. But all their tones were filled with such bitterness, resentment, and loathing that each word was a painful stab to her heart. It was hurtful, built her guilt ridden mind said that she deserved it, and she couldn't agree.

She couldn't take it anymore! She desperately covered her ears with her hands, hoping to block out their hateful, contempted voices, all the while screaming in demoralizing remorse and crushing misery. "I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I'm so-!"

Suddenly, Orihime threw her body forward, lurching up the contents of her stomach, her breakfast going to waste. A disgusted splosh hitting the ground. Her face marred with unending, broken tears with each drop mixing with the chunks of vomit. A maddening, despairing chant of 'I'm sorry' and 'my fault' swirled inside her head.

---

Alphonse was wondering a strange forest, apprehensive and confused. Where was his brother, Orihime, and Nina? They were just here a minute ago. As soon as that strange fog mysteriously appeared, everyone suddenly vanished.

Wait a minute…! This pathway seems oddly familiar. The once dense forest gave way to a wispy meadow. A gentle breeze blew and gently rustled the grass. The sun was shining, brightly. There was not a single cloud in sight.

However, Alphonse wasn't paying much attention to that. He stared, speechless and dumbstruck at the winding dirt path. No way! This wasn't possible! Why was he back home in Resembool? He was just in a forest at the outskirts of Neshire. How did he get from there to Resembool in an instant? This was impossible. There was no alchemy that could transport someone. It violates the laws of physics.

He was a suit of armor, so he couldn't feel the fresh, crisp air against his skin, or the piny smell of the gently swaying grass. But his eyesight works as clear as day, and there was definitely no mistaking the familiar two story, white house perched, proudly on top of a hill.

There was no mistaking it. That was his house. His childhood home. The home he grew up in with Ed. The home where his mother once resided. Even the tree with the man made swing was there, standing right next to it.

Al's whole armored body started trembling as memories came floating back to him one by one. Happy memories. Sad memories. Painful memories. Bittersweet memories. Just so many fleeting memories were stored in this one special place. Seeing his old home caused his emotions to go out of control. If he was able to shed tears, he'd be crying tears of joy or sorrow.

He remembered the confusion and sadness he felt as he watched his father's back when he left them and their mother. The pride and joy that simmered through him when his mother happily complimented his and his brother's genius in alchemy. The pain and sorrow that echoed inside him when they opened the door after buying groceries only to witness their mom collapsed floor, and then being told the heartbreaking news that their mom had been sick with illness for years and doesn't have much time to live. The grief and despair that showered him upon his mother's passing. The anxiety and resolve swelling up inside as he observed his home being engulfed in flames, signifying their determination to keep moving forward, no matter what.

So, so many memories were contained in this very house. Which begs the question… Why…? How was his house still standing? Was this a dream?

Before Al realized, his metal legs were already trudging up the beaten path towards his old home. As he stood before the green door, his palms began to sweat with anxiety and anticipation, which was not possible seeing as he didn't have any skin or flesh to speak of.

When he finally gathered enough courage, he tentatively yanked the door open. He wanted to explore the inside, to investigate this replica of his childhood house because that's what it was. A replica. Maybe whoever is responsible for these abductions is hidden behind these walls.

The same white walls and wooden flooring greeted him everywhere he went. What shocked him the most though, was that every room, decorations, and furniture were the same as he last recalled them, even all their family photos are in the exact places he remembered them. This house...was an eerily uncanny and terrifyingly omnious of his childhood home!

If Alphonse wasn't on edge now, he definitely was now. How did this person, this deranged stranger know what his old home looked like? They managed to replica not only the outside, but the inside, too! From top to bottom, from left to right, every nook and cranny, everything was a complete, and it scared the hell of Al! Was someone stalking them their entire life without their knowledge? Just the mere thought sent a shiver of baleful disgust and frightful alarm slithered down the soul bonded suit of armor's metaphorical spine.

Out of the blue, a screeching, pained moan caught his attention. The sudden, disturbing cry almost made him jump because it just came out of nowhere. It was coming from down the hall. Steeling himself, he took a determined step forward and then another, his metal feet and legs making a metallic noise with every movement.

The closer he came to the source of the unsettling noise, the louder and more deranged the moans and groans became. The sound was certainly not from a human. It was too gurgled and grotesque to belong to a person.

When he reached the door, he froze. The noise unexpectedly became viciously loud and angrily distorted. He could barely make out a few, almost incoherent words, but when he did it almost sent a chill down his metal spine.

"Get out! Get out! Get out! Get out! Get out! Get out! Get out! Get out! Get out! Get out! Get out! Get out! Get out! Get out! Get out! Get out!"

Someone was agonizing screaming the words 'get out' in a twisted series of utter madness. An uproar so repulsive and disturbing it caused Al's stomach to become quesy, and he doesn't have one! His probing mind and curiosity was telling him to open the door, however, his instincts were signaling to him to make a run for it. Eventually, the inquisitive scientist in him win out, and he slowly and quietly opened the door. The only encouragement following him was that he's been through a lot of tragedies and hardships. What would make this potential one any different?

Though, as soon as he stepped into the room, he was greeted with a horrific sight that sent him unpleasant and traumatic memories. The entire room was dark and dangy. There was a large Transmutation Circle in the middle of the floor that was made of chalk. It was already beginning to fade away due to months and years of wear and tear. Crusted, dried blood painted the floor and walls. But what really shook Al to the core was the grotesque, sickly humanoid creature laying in the middle of the circle in a heap of pain and agony.

The creatures body was hideously twisted, horribly disfigured, and gruesomely mangled in places. It was so skinny that it was basically bone on a thin piece of flesh. Its head was bent at an impossible angle, and there were piles of blood gushing from its mouth. It finally caught notice of him in the room, staring at him with sunken, reddened eyes that held an unbearable amount of excruciating suffering and torment.

Alphonse's whole body started trembling, his metal fist clenched at his side. This creature… It reminded him of mom the day they tried to transmute her. No, it was mom! The resemblance was so uncanny, it had to be his mother. The very concept of his transmuted mother laying right before him in agonizing pain and suffering caused the bottled up feelings of sadness and guilt to be released all at once. If he could cry, he would be shedding tears of remorse. Although, his body still quivered as he slightly sobbed.

The creature's deformed corpse crawled up to him, opening its misshapen mouth. "How could you do this me, Al? How could do this to your own mother? Why did you leave me like this? Get out! Get out! Get out! Get out! Get out!" it screeched at him in such an accusing and loathsome tone.

Each distasteful accusation struck a painful blow to his nonexistent heart. He dropped down to his knees in regret, his hands covering his face in shame and sorrow. The thing was still screaming at him.

"Get out! Get out! Get out! Get out! Get out!"

He never meant for any of this to happen. He never meant to make mom suffer. He only wanted her back. He only wanted to see her smile once more. He only wanted… He only wanted...

He could only sob. "I'm sorry, mom."

---

"Big Sis Ori, where are you?" Nina tearfully called out into the dense wilderness. "I'm scared and lonely."

The poor, little girl was all alone in such a scary place. Specks of tears were streaming down her face. Where did everybody go? Big Sis Ori, Big Brother Ed, and Big Brother Al all just vanished into thin air! She tried and tried searching for them, but they were nowhere to be seen. She could even sense Big Sis Ori's warm and comforting presence. Where did they go?

She hoped big sis and big brothers would find her soon. It was dark and scary. What if a monster comes out and tries to eat her? That little thought caused Nina to whimper in fear.

"Bis sis, big brothers, I'm scared," the young, brown haired girl sniffed, wiping away the few strays of waterworks that were leaking from her blue orbs. She desperately tried to hold back her tears.

She can't cry. She had to be strong and brave just like big sis. She was a big girl! She could find her way back.

The little girl nearly jumped out of her skin when her foot accidentally kicked against something that made a crunchy sound. Her alarmed and startled, wide eyes gazed at the space her foot stepped in, only to sigh in relief when it just some pieces of dried twigs and leaves. She placed a tiny hand over her frantically beating heart, trying to will it to calm down.

Nina remembered from those scary stories her dad used to read to her that monsters sense fear. They enjoy feasting on it. She couldn't be scared. She needed to stay calm and relax.

Her dad…

Nina paused in her cautious strolling, a melancholic cloud hovering above her. She hasn't even thought of her father...since...that day. Ever since that incident, her feelings for her father have been troublingly mixed. She never understood it. Why would her father do something so cruel and painful to her?

New fresh tears began to sting her eyes, her heart hurt. She needed to sit down. Unfortunately, there was no spots to take a seat on, so she just opted to plant herself on the floor. Yet, not before making sure the place was cleared of any dirt and debris. The less dirty her clothes, the better.

Nina couldn't remember much of what happened that day. All she remembered was that her body was in constant pain and agony. Everything was so dark. Only specks of white light and blurred visions. She recalled Big Brother Ed. He was angry. Violently furious. His face was dark and menacing. His eyes glaring, viciously at someone. His entire body trembling with rage. He was punching something...really, really hard...and a lot, getting tiny spots of blood on his face and knuckles.

Big Brother Al was there as well, but she could barely remember what he was doing. All she recalled was that he was standing dutifully behind his brother. And Big Sis Ori… A saddened frown etched onto Nina's lips. Big sis was crying. It pained her heart to witness her surrogate sister crying. Why was she crying? She remembered trying to move to comfort her, but her body was in too much pain to respond correctly. She couldn't think straight.

Afterwards… Afterwards… She couldn't remember what happened much after that. She was driven purely by instinct. All she recollected was that she was scared and frightened beyond belief. Something about her was unfamiliar and different. It felt wrong. She felt wrong.

Everything was filled with the uncertainty of the unknown. Her memories afterwards were dark, blurry, and somewhat blank. She doesn't recall what transpired after that. All she remembered was this gentle, heavenly sensation. All her pain had begun ebbing away bit by bit under a soothing aura as it tenderly caressed her entire being. Next thing she knew she was lying comfortably in bed.

Nina shook her head. This was no time to reminiscent about the past. She had to find big sis and big brothers quick.

She perked up when she suddenly heard the light tapping of glass. She remembered that sound! How could she not? Her mind reeled back to the time where her dad accidentally left his lab door unlocked.

(FLASHBACK)

It happened about two years ago. She was just five at the time. Her father was acting unusually gloomy and desperate for some strange reason. He would end up locking himself in his lab for hours that eventually grew into days as time passed. As the days flew by she could tell her dad was becoming more weary and tired. He would even come out of his laboratory on rare occasions with bags under his eyes, showing signs of his exhaustion and lack of sleep.

One day her concern for her father's well being, and her curiosity over wondering what he was working on that was so important that caused him to miss work. Her father forgot to lock the door to his lab as he usually did to keep her out. It was only a small, quick peek. But a sneak peek was all that was needed to send Nina reeling back in fear.

Drawing of circles and complicated math littered the floor and walls. The entire room was dirtied with filth. Seeing all the grime and muck caked to the wall was icky and gross. However, that wasn't what disturbed her the most. What frightened the poor girl was various creatures in the slightly rusty cages. She could tell they were not normal animals. They were hideously deformed and grotesque. They all growled and snarled. Some of them were viciously gnawing on their cages hoping to break free, but to no avail. The cages were tougher than their sharpened teeth.

There was one animal that wasn't in its cage though, and that was the one that made her stomach turn in an unsettling way. There was just something uncannily familiar about its appearance. It most resembled that of a dog. The unkempt, bushy, brown fur was ruffled messily throughout its body. Its dirty brown mane was a darker shade from the rest of its fur, and was disheveled and untidy. Its feet were rather big though, and its face and snout long and somewhat irregular. However, what disturbed her the most, what frightened her the most and sent ice cold shivers down her spine was the look in its beady, black eyes. Eyes that held so much pain and sadness. Eyes that were completely drained of life. Eyes that...looked...just like her mother's. But that...couldn't be right.

She had to cover her mouth to hold back the growing bile in her throat. Why did looking at that animal made her so sad? Why was her father doing with such a miserable creature? Was he not properly taking care of it? He should know that he should feed and walk it everyday. She does that with Alexander, and Alexander loves it. Surely, this dog would like it, too, and wouldn't be so sad.

Then… Then the dog finally caught notice of her presence outside the door. It looked at her, and when it did, a thunder of horror struck at the Nina's core, leaving her frozen and paralyzed.

"...Ni...na? Kill...me…," the creature pleaded, pitifully. The dog's miserable voice sent shockwaves done her spine. The disturbing way it spoke her name was so similar to the way her mother talked. Conversely, unlike her mother's sweet and gentle voice, the dog's tone was filled with anguish and misery.

Nevertheless, for that one second… That stomach churning, gut wrenching second… Nina saw her mother!

Nina let out ear shattering scream, clenching her head in agony, and devastating tears rapidly streaming down her face. She could barely make out her father's startled and surprised voice. After that… Everything…

Everything went black.

(END OF FLASHBACK)

Nina's blue eyes widened in shock and horror. How could she? How could she have forgotten about such heartbreaking, traumatic event?! She remembered everything now!

The lab… Her missing mom… Her father's odd, distant and disquieting behavior… That creature who's eyes were uncannily familiar to her mom…

It all made sense now! The horrifying realization hit Nina hard. What if… That night on that day… What if that creature...was her mother? The very thought caused her heart to leap into her throat as she resisted the strong urge to vomit.

"Big sis?" Nina called out, her voice trembling as she walked around, tentatively. "Big Sis Ori? Where are you?" She was scared. These terrifying thoughts and vague memories were scaring her. She wanted to be comforted by her big sister. With her, the brown haired girl was always warm and safe when she was with her.

"Nina, where are you going?"

That made disturbingly calm voice caused the young girl to freeze in her tracks. No way. No way. That voice…! It was her father's! She could recognize his gentle voice anywhere. But this one wasn't the loving tone he used when he spoke to her. No, it was different, more ominous. This was the same eerily unnerving voice he used when he wanted her to 'play' with him.

But there's no way her father could be here! It's...impossible! He… He did a very bad thing, so her dad should be in time out for a very long time. At least, that's what Big Brother Ed told her.

However, when she told her head, her blue eyes went as wide as a size of saucers. Her lips trembled and her hands began to become clammy with sweat. Her heart was beating rapidly with trepidation, and she was left stunned speechless.

There was her father, Shou Tucker, standing right before her with a dark, creepy smile plastered on his face. Nina was left paralyzed with fear. That smile… That grin was not good. It was the same ominous smirk he sent her right before a flash of light hit her that day followed by excruciating pain before everything went black.

When Nina finally recovered from her shock and regained some semblance of movement, her blue gaze drifted downwards. She let out a scream of sheer terror. Where…?! Where did this circle come from?! This was the same circle that caused her so much agony and pain that day. Why?! Why was she reliving this nightmare?! Why?!

The little, brown haired girl gasped in fear when she noticed her father bent down at the knees about to press his palms against the edge of the circle.

"Daddy, no!" she screamed.

"It's okay, Nina," Shou spoke out in a sickening disquieting tone. "It'll be over in just a sec."

"Daddy, stop!" Nina desperately pleaded, fearful tears streaming, hurriedly down her face. "Please, daddy! Don't do it!"

A flash of bluish white light before light. A horrified scream of torment and agony shot past her lips as jolts of red hot pain pierced her entire being. The entire process hurt so much! Why…? Why was her father doing this to her? She wanted to yell, cry, and beg for him to stop, to stop hurting her. Can't he tell how much pain she is in? She wanted to voice out her fright, but the pain was just too much.

Then she blacked out.

---

A dark haired woman hovered over the bodies of the unconscious teens. The pain and fear radiating off them was exquisite. Simply marvelous. Soon, their souls should be ripe for picking. Now, who's soul should she devour first?

She sneered at the two girls. She never cared for women. They can both rot and die in their illusions.

With those two eliminated, all that was left was the miserable soul attached to the tin can, and the young blond. She stalked towards the boy, bending down to carefully examining his pained expression. She could smell something tasty residing from him. Something delectable and mouth watering.

That's it. The smell of a broken heart!

An evil smirk spread across her lips.

Excellent!

She just loved the taste of a man's suffering. But the taste she enjoyed the most were the ones who had their hearts ripped out. The pain and sorrow, bitterness and despair, jealousy and resentment... It was all so scrumptious! These were the type of men who were the most susceptible to her wiles and charms. They were always on the rebound and looking for another girl to distract them from their unrequited love.

The woman leaned her body forward and placed her hand on top of his head. She needed to find out more, if she was going to manipulate this young boy. What was his illusion? What was the source of his despair? Who does he desperately seek?

A few moments of silence passed. Then she finally let go. She licked her pink colored lips, seductively. She saw it all. The source of his pain and suffering. The girl he was in love with was right next to him, but not only did she reject him recently, she was already in love with another man. This boy had his heart broken twice in just a few, short days. He was scared, terrified of the girl leaving him for the man she loved. No wonder his suffering and despair smelled so delicious. His uncertainty and anguish, gloom and devastation was astounding! His agony was raw and delightful.

She tenderly stroked his hair from his face. She leaned in until her face was just inches away from his. "You poor boy," she whispered, tantalizing. "That girl has caused you so much pain, hasn't she? But don't worry. I shall cure you from your suffering."

The woman picked him, and placed his unconscious form over her shoulder. She glanced back at the auburn haired girl, and a victorious smirk formed on her lips. By the time she was done with this boy, it would be she he had such deep feelings, not her. All men belonged to her.

She held his head, and tenderly placed a kiss against his cheek. "By the time I'm done, it would be me you long for. You would forget all about that girl."

With a bright flash of light, she and Ed were gone.

---

Edward groaned, groggily. The first thing he could sense was the scent of lavender piercing his nose. His nose inwardly wrinkled at the smell. His first thought was… It was nowhere near as nice and relaxing as Orihime's strawberry fragrance.

His eyelids tiredly shifted, revealing golden orbs underneath. His vision was blurry, but, once they cleared, his body tensed. "Where am I?" Ed mumbled. His senses were on high alert.

The room he found himself in was fairly large. It had dark brown walls with vine carvings at the bottom. There was a white vanity at the far side of the wall on his left. A pot red spider lilies. The blue spot itself looked way too fancy and expensive. The floral painting that decorated seemed authentic. On his right side, there was a tall, black bookcase filled with several books. Some looked old and rusty and others seemed new and well kept. Next to the bookcase was a large, light brown cabinet with golden yellow handles. The bed he was lying on was a king size. It was soft and smooth. The snow white sheets was silky and clean. The porcelain white blanket had the design of green vines and snow flowers and was warm and polished. While he was inspecting the unfamiliar room, there were two doors on the opposite sides of the bathroom. Ed could only deduce that one led outside, and the other probably led to the bathroom or something.

When he heard the door knob twist and jiggle, the blond alchemist immediately sat up and his golden eyes narrowed at the door. Anticipation and suspicious coursed right through him. He threw the blanket away, and hopped out of the bed. His body tensed into a battle ready stance.

The door finally opened to reveal a woman with long, black hair that reached all the way down to her waist. She wore a beautiful, white gown that fluttered out at the bottom and light pink layers underneath. A pair of fancy, pink heels adorned her feet. The woman's skin was creamy and silky smooth, not a trace of a pimple or blemish. She was very beautiful with her vibrant, blue eyes, angular nose, and thin lips that was colored with dark pink lipstick.

"Who the hell are you?" Ed questioned the woman as soon as she entered the room. He was alone with no one to back him up and a stranger standing before him. No one can blame him for being on guard and suspicious. "Where am I?"

The dark haired woman shot him a gentle smile. "Relax. I mean no harm." She held her hands in an unassuming gesture.

Ed's posture relaxed a little. A loud growl resounded through the room. He blushed in embarrassment and the woman giggled.

"I figured you'd be hungry. C'mon, I made you some sandwiches you could eat to get your strength back." The woman gestured for him to follow her as she left.

Edward frowned. The woman didn't bother to answer his questions. His stomach growled once more, impatiently. He shrugged, his growing hunger winning the internal debate. If she was willing to feed him, then what's the harm?

---

"This sandwich wasn't half bad," Edward thought as messily chewed on the meal the woman offered.

The woman, although a sickly sweet smile was plastered on her countenance, she was inwardly grimacing at the boy's obvious lack of mannerisms. He was such a pig!

Oh, well… The pain and jealousy residing inside him was so raw and magnificent…! It would all be worth in the end when she'd devour his aching soul.

But first, she needed to get on the boy's good side. She eyed the boy once more. He was young, possibly sixteen. However, he looked rather short for his age. His long, blond hair was tied into a braid reaching to his upper back. His eyes were as gold as the sun. With his strong features and muscular build along with some baby fat that hasn't completely disappeared, he had the appearance of a boy slowly transforming into a man.

"Why were lying in the forest?" the dark haired woman politely asked him.

The boy paused in chewing the last bites of his sandwich, and eyed her. There was a flash of confusion before a sense of heartbreaking torment shone beneath his golden depths.

"Wait a minute…! Why do you mean 'lying in the forest'?" the blond boy questioned, his voice dripping with puzzlement.

"On my way back from my afternoon stroll, I found you passed in the middle of the forest," she elaborated. "Mind telling me why?" Her blue eyes gazed at him with interest and concern.

He frowned, his heart stung. "I was… I was…"

"I love you, Ichigo."

"None of your business," boy scowled at her, trying to hide his suffering and sadness behind anger and annoyance. "Who are you anyway? And where is this place?"

"Pardon my rudeness. My name is Amelia Maverick. And yours?"

"Edward Elric." His golden eyes narrowed. "You still haven't answered all my questions. Where am I? What happened to my brother and my friends?"

"This is my home," Amelia replied, kindly. "I know it's not much, but please feel free to rest here until you regain your strength back, Edward. That forest is quite dangerous. People who enter there seldom make it out of there alive," she said, taking a sip of her tea.

An inquisitive, blond eyebrow rose. "Why is that?"

She put her tea down. "You might not believe, but that forest is known for casting illusions. It searches for a person's deepest and darkest fears inside their heart, and it turns it into a living nightmare. You are not the first. I have seen many people who have fallen victim to its illusionary tricks."

Ed just stared at the woman with disbelief and skepticism. A forest that could cast illusions? Who would believe that load of crap? But then again, didn't he fall for it. That realization hit him like a truck. A sense of relief washed over him. So, it was all just a fake? Everything that happened the past couple of hours wasn't real? Orihime kissing Ichigo, and her leaving him behind was all just in his head?

He snapped his head when he heard giggling behind him. "What are you laughing at?" he angrily barked at Amelia.

"You…! You seem incredibly happy! And your face was all red!" She gasped, blissfully, clapping her hands together. "Wait…! You said you had friends waiting for you?" She wiggled a teasing black brow, a coy smile placing itself upon her lips. "Is one of your friends...a girl? And you like her, don't you?"

Ed's face almost turned as red as a tomato. He jumped out of the chair as if a sudden jolt of electricity shot through him. "I-I-I like O-Orihime?" he sputtered out, flustered and extremely embarrassed. "What makes you think that I love her?! She's just a friend!"

She giggled. "I never said anything about you being in love with her. I just implied that you have an interest in her," she teased him, playfully. "I have seen plenty of men with similar expressions. You have that look of hopelessness in your eyes." She could kind of admit that his spazziness made him adorable.

Ed's throat rumbled, his face scrunched up in anger. This woman was seriously starting to piss him off. Urgh! He didn't have time for this. He had to look for Al, Orihime, and Nina. If what Amelia said was true, then those three must be suffering from their own illusions. He needs to find them, and wake them up somehow.

"I'm going. Thanks for the food," he said, a hint of annoyance in his tone. He may be a rude prick, but his mother did teach him some manners.

"It must be hard. Not having your affections returned. Unrequited love is...painful, isn't it?" The dark haired woman's sweet and caring was suddenly chilly and foreboding. A sense of unease hit Ed, and his body tensed.

That hit nerve. The blond alchemist balled his fists, his body trembling. His blood was boiling. This woman was really getting on his damn nerves! She was irritating and annoying as hell.

He turned around, ready to give the nosy hag a piece of his mind, a little lecture of minding her own damn business. However, when he turned around, he was instantly enveloped in the same ominous mist as before.

Uh, oh…! Given his earlier experience, he knew what was coming. Although, he was prepared this time! Whatever mind games would come about, he's not falling for it!

Fortunately or unfortunately for him, he wasn't...he wasn't expecting...this!

He felt something soft and warm pressed against his lips. His golden eyes were wide with shock. His entire body was frozen and stiff. His heart instantly burst in sheer euphoric happiness and blissful rapture. His lips tingle with fireworks. Strands of auburn hair filled his peripheral vision. Sparks were igniting every nerve of his body, and the intoxicating scent of strawberries invaded his nose.

Orihime finally stopped kissing him, and Edward would not lie he wasn't enjoying it or say that he was disappointed by how quickly the kiss ended. Her gray orbs gazed at him, adoringly, and a shy blush adorned her cheeks. That small, reserved, and genuinely happy smile he loved so much graced her lips.

"Uh… Uh…" Ed was left speechless and dumbfounded. His entire face was a deep shade of red. The chemicals in his brain were going haywire. He couldn't think straight. Alchemical formulas and the chemical elements of the periodic table resided in his head.

The auburn haired girl gaze drifted away from him, staring downwards at her gray skirt and she shyly twiddled her fingers into the fabric. "I… I have always liked you, Eddie," she confessed. There was a pleasant sense of tender bashfulness and affectionate infatuation in her tone. Her heart was beating so much she could hardly contain it.

Her gaze returned to him, and when it did, Ed's heart skipped a beat when he saw the look in her gray eyes. Her eyes shone, brightly with intensity. Eyes that were filled with nothing but love and devotion. Eyes that were looking at him and him alone. Eyes just for him!

Edward was so...so...happy! He was waiting for this moment. His heart jumped for joy. There was no intense yearning for Ichigo. Just him and him only.

She nervously nippled on her bottom lip, shyly scooting closer to him. Her fingers tentatively brushed up against his, sending jolts of ecstatic electricity throughout their entire bodies.

"I like you, Eddie," she said, bashfully and enamored, a light pink blush still painted her cheeks. "I really do. I like you, like you. Do you like me, Eddie?"

Ed watched as her eyes fluttered closed and she puckered her pouty lips. Her body leaning forward, readying for a kiss. This was it! However, should he really be doing this? Somewhere in the back of his mind held some doubt. Was this the real Orihime? Or was mind being tricked by those illusions again?

His hand slowly reached out. But… But… But the joyfully satisfied and desire filled captivated part of him won out. Deep down, he's been waiting to hear those words for a long time. He impassionately longed for them. He craved them. The blood rushed to his face, and his heart wouldn't stop pounding from anticipation, excitement, and besottedness. God, she was so beautiful and enchanting. He just couldn't resist.

His thumb gently brushed against her cheek. A deep desire gleamed and darkened his golden orbs. His eyes trailed down and lingered on her awaiting soft and pink lips. In that instant, all thoughts of doubt were erased for his mind. It was… It was just them. Nothing but them, and this hopeful moment.

Edward placed his whole palm against her soft cheek. Slowly, he leaned forward, getting ready to meet her halfway. Time seemed to slow down. Everything around them disappeared. His heart was pounding, loudly in his ear. The dark blush on his face was ever present. His golden eyes simmered with a passionate, yearning desire. Ed could feel her warm breath brushed up against him as he inched closer. He felt a spark that coursed through the nerves of his body when his lips brushed hers.

"Aww!" a feminine voice echoed, mockingly. "Is this what you want? Is this what you desire so badly? Orihime's love? How sweet. And truly pathetic."

---

Ed's eyes snapped open in an instant. Orihime disappeared as well as the illusion around him. He found himself lying on the couch. Amelia was hovering over him, a cruel smirk playing on her lips.

"Is the lover boy awake? It seemed you like you were having such a pleasant dream. I'm sorry I woke you up from something so wondrous," she said, but her tone was anything but apologetic.

Ed's anger came to boil. How dare she…! How DARE she! She made him…! She made him think…! He closed his eyes in frustration. She made him believe that Orihime… He was so pathetic! He bit his bottom lip until he began to draw a trickle of blood. How could he have fallen for something like that? After all… Orihime would never… She would never…!

"She would never love you." Ed gasped at the sharp assertion, a tinge of bitterness hit his tongue. "Ichigo's the man she loves. Not you." Every cruel word, every malicious taunt was a poisonous stab to his heart. "But I can help you. I can give you Orihime's love for one night."

Confusion struck at him. "What do you mean you would give me Orihime's love?" he growled. "You mean another one of your illusions? Stop playing games with me!" He furiously swung at her. She dodged the attempt and leapt away from him, her blue eyes flashed with amusement.

"Don't get so worked up!" the dark haired woman teased him in that sickly sweet voice of hers.

His anger rose. He clapped his hands. "You really starting to piss me off!"

"I don't mean an illusion, Edward," she quickly spoke out before he could complete the transmutation, her genuinely surprising him. "I mean the real deal. I can give you Orihime's love. I had plenty of men come before you desiring my help in order to win the hearts of their affection. I know what I'm doing," she declared, feeling quite proud of herself. "I can lend you a potion, you give to Orihime, and for one night she truly would be yours and yours alone. Men are such selfish and possessive creatures, aren't they?"

It took the blond alchemist a few seconds to process her words. But when he did, a torrent of rage crashed, furiously through him and his stomach twisted with nausea. Was this woman suggesting that he should…? His face twisted in fury and disgust. "You sick bitch! Do you really think I would stoop that low?" he roared, enraged, lunging at the woman. The thought of all the other men who actually went along with her offer as she implied made him sneer in repulsion.

That insane, depraved plan would only bring him happiness for a few, short hours. He could vividly imagine what would transpire after all was said and done. His stomach turned at the thought. Orihime's distinct, tormented tears, and her face twisted in sadness, betrayal, and disgust when her broken, gray eyes landed on him, the person who ruined her.

No! He could never do something so...sick! Not to Orihime. He would never hurt her like that. Never! The shame and guilt he'd feel would be unbearable. He would never be able to live with himself after that.

Amelia sidestepped his attack, easily, and she tilted her head, both puzzled and disappointed. "So, you don't want to seduce her?" She shrugged her shoulders and sighed in dissatisfaction. "I guess you don't mind playing second fiddle to Ichigo." He froze in shock, a flash of hurt crossed his eyes. She shot him a menacing smirk filled with an odd mixture bone chilling malice and sugary seductiveness. "No matter what you do, your affections for Orihime would never be returned." She inched closer and closer to him, each word was dripped with venomous glee. "She would only think of Ichigo. Thoughts of you would never cross her mind. I know deep down you hate Orihime. You hate her for leaving you for him. Remember what happened after you two kissed? She didn't hesitate to reject you. She rejected you. And for what? Because you weren't Ichigo. After everything you have done for her, this is how she repays you? While you were suffering alone, she was only thinking about Ichigo. Don't you resent her for that? Don't you want her to taste your pain? She broke your heart, and she doesn't even care. How can you stand that? You are within your rights to want revenge for the way she toyed with your emotions. It's okay to hate Ichigo and feel bitter towards Orihime. You are not wrong to hate them." She traced a finger around his chest where his heart lay. "Remember, no matter how much you wish it, how much you yearn for it, Orihime would never love you." She leaned in, whispering, lustfully coquettish and painstakingly fiendishly in his ear. "You would never have her heart."

That completely shattered his heart. Those words struck at his core, clawing mercilessly at his very soul. He's been thinking about that for a while now. To have it… His darkest thoughts cruelly thrown back rather heartlessly… Well, it was...painful, to say the least. So ridiculously agonizing that he couldn't stand how much it hurt. He just wanted to ignore it, and hopefully, one day...the pain would go away.

"I love you, Ichigo."

He clenched his fists, bitterness and jealousy slowly crept its way in his heart, swirling it in its dark enchantment. A raging storm of grudging spite and embittered envy echoed deep within. His bangs shadowed his face.

Don't say that, Orihime! Don't…! It's just… How could she…? He fists tightened into his knuckle was beginning to turn sheet white. Why? How could she do this to him? Why is it him? Why is it Ichigo? Why is it always him?! His teeth gnashed together so roughly, there was a chance it might crack. How could she kiss that bastard?! Bastard…! Bastard! He wished that Orihime never even met Ichigo!

The blond boy gasped in shock as if finally realizing his thoughts were taking such a twisted and dark turn. How could he think something like that? He was despicable! Going that far just because he was hurt. So damn detestable!

"What's wrong with them?" Amelia implored him, coyly. She wrapped her arms around his neck. "This is who you are, Edward. Why don't you just embrace it? Embrace this bitterness and hatred that's been fustering deep inside your heart. Let it all out."

She gently pushed him down on the couch, placing herself upon his lap in such a suggestive manner. She flirtatiously caressed his frozen and wide eyed face. "Unlike Orihime, I would never even think of another man. I can help you out by making her tasting the pain she caused you to suffer."

Edward had a sickly feeling of feeling of where this was headed. How could he not when the woman's face was inching closer to his? There was no way… There was no way in hell he would choose Amelia over Orihime! She must be dreaming.

He tried to move. However, he was left paralyzed with when his body wouldn't respond. Why? Why can't he move?

Amelia's face was drawing nearer. His heartbeat sped up. The anxiety coursing through him made his stomach turn. The flesh of his real hand was dripping with sweat. Beads of apprehension and dread glided down the side of his face. His eyes were closed, tightly, and his blond brows were scrunched downwards in disquietude. Every muscle in his body was tensing up.

No! He needed to move now! He's got to move, dammit! The best he could manage was to turn his head away, but she cupped both his hands to forcibly hold him still.

"Don't be so tense. Soon you will be mine."

Edward was about to bite back a retort, but he was cut off when her lips suddenly pressed against his. Ed's eyes instantly shot open wide with shock and consternation. His entire body froze, and his brain was turned to mush.

Was this another illusion? No, it felt way too real to be just another hallucination. He could feel Amelia's lips moving fiercely against his stunned and stupefied ones. His dazed mind couldn't comprehend what was happening.

Amelia's lips were cold and unfeeling. A sense of disgust streamed down his spine. There was not even a trace of warmth or comfort. There was only the foreboding feeling of uneasy dread and heavy darkness. He felt sick to his stomach. He couldn't do a damn thing as she molested him. Every cell in his body was shuddering in repulsive displeasure.

Her kiss was nothing compared to Orihime's. Orihime's kiss was soft and inviting, warm and loving, sweet and intoxicating. It electrified every nerve in his body. He was captivated by it, entranced by it, bewitched by it. A fire of passion ignited inside him. Sparks flew and fireworks exploded!

But...right now...he felt no sparks. No sense of passion. No feeling of intense yearning or wanting for more. His body felt cold from his lips all the way down to the stumps of his toes. Nothing but distasteful disgust and horrid revulsion passed through him. When he felt her tongue force its way inside his mouth, he felt even more sick. A bile of repugnance clogged at his throat. He closed his eyes, hoping to erase this detestable image, trying to occupy his mind with something pleasant.

He had to get away from her now! His body was starting to feel weird. Like it was suddenly being drained of energy. The hairs on the back of his neck was standing on ends. Every cell in his body was screaming at him to get away. To get away from this abhorrent bitch.

Move, dammit! He had to move! Dammit! Move! He just needed to move! Move! Move! MOVE!

(FLASHBACK)

"You are the first boy to say that you liked my hair."

(END OF FLASHBACK)

Memories… Pleasant memories started flooding in him, feeling him with warmth, comfort, and kindness. Memories that caused his heart to flutter.

(FLASHBACK)

"Uh, Orihime?" the blond alchemist called, hesitantly. "Could you lift your head?" This closeness was becoming unbearable. It was good for his dangerously beating heart. Any more and it just might burst. He didn't know how it would look to others to see a taller girl leaning against his shoulder.

"No," she refused, softly. Her tone was no more than a whisper in the breeze. "I'm embarrassed." Her shy voice was muffled by his jacket, but he could hear her loud and clear. He could clearly see the outer reddening of her cheeks, and instantly understood she was trying to hide her own embarrassment. What he doesn't realize was that the cause of her bashfulness were similar to his own prior thoughts.

A small, half grin made its way onto Ed's features. It's looks like he wasn't the only one who was embarrassed. They were both shy and awkward teens. Clumsy and flustered adolescents who were easily embarrassed by the smallest provocation. But somehow, he wouldn't have it any other way. It signified them. It was normal and natural for them. It's what made them us. And he liked that.

There was no rush.

No rush.

Relaxing a bit, he completely enveloped her in his embrace. A small grin plastered on his face as they gently swayed back and forth in perfect harmony.

The soft music continued as Edward and Orihime danced to their heart's content.

---

"You're not playing!" Orihime finally voiced out in a frustrated, sad, and discouraged pout.

"Playing what?" Ed responded, genuinely confused.

"Footsie!" she exclaimed in both sheer exasperation and utter excitement.

Now, he was more baffled than ever. What's footsie? He's never heard of it. It sounds like such a sappy name to a children's game.

Seeing his utterly bewildered gaze, Orihime almost gasped in realization. "You never played footsie?" she cried out in shock. The confused glint in her golden orbs didn't vanish in the least.

An enthusiastically happy smile made its way back on the auburn haired girl's features. The excited sparkled returning to her gray eyes. Her legs were bouncing with boundless energy. It was amazing to see her mood do a complete one eighty.

"Footsie's a game you play under the table!" the ginger haired girl shouted in absolute glee.

A half grin formed on Ed's lips, her giddiness becoming contagious. "A game?"

"Yep!" she nodded her head. "It's when couples lightly kick each other's legs. See?" She playfully kicked his leg again as a demonstration. "It's a sign of flirting."

When Orihime witnessed Edward's face turn red, it wasn't long before she quickly realized her mistake, a blush taking shape on her cheeks.

"It's not just for flirting!" she swiftly retracted her earlier statement, her arm flailing in front of her, frantically, trying to save herself from her embarrassing mistake. "B-but it's just playing! Flirting doesn't have to be involved!"

---

Ed's jaw dropped. "You've known for that long?!" He was completely appalled. He remembered the first time they met when she was staring at them. At first, he thought she was comparing their sizes, which is why his scowl turned angrier and angrier waiting for the dreaded 'short' insult. She was actually figuring out their bodies weren't normal instead? And just looking at them for a few seconds?

"Why didn't you say anything?" Ed asked, lowly, his voice full of different, undecipherable emotions.

Orihime looked down at her lap, shyly. "How can I? It'll be insensitive of me to ask something like that. If I did, it'll just be pouring salt on a wound. How can I ask you that without gouging out your pain all over again? There's no answer to that." She sent him a soft smile. "So, I've decided to just wait. Whenever you're ready, whenever you have the courage to tell me, I'll be there to listen. After all, they are called personal issues for a reason."

The blond alchemist was even more amazed by this girl. Everytime, she always manages to do or say something that completely leaves him speechless and dumbstruck. He could feel his face heating up.

"You really amazing," she announced, shyly. "You know that, Edward?"

A yellow eyebrow rose in amusement. "Amazing? I've never heard anyone call me or my failed attempt at Human Transmutation that. How am I amazing?"

Orihime fiddled with her fingers, timidly. "Well, you never gave up. You're strong and determined. The fact that you did everything you could to revive your mother, and now you're doing everything in your power to get your younger brother back to normal, despite all your faults and failures, is really admirable." A small genuine smile spread across her face. "In my eyes, you are a proud failure! And I like guys like you."

Edward's face couldn't turn any redder than it did right now. "You… You really know how to flatter a guy, don't you?"

---

"It's not a weakness."

Both blonds glanced to see Orihime staring down at them with a faint smile, hands clasped in front of her. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to eavesdrop."

Winry quickly wiped away her tears. "No, it's fine, Orihime."

"I think that just shows real dedication," the auburn haired girl addressed Ed. "Your unfaltering commitment and your strong resolve. It's nothing you should be ashamed about, Ed. It just means you really care about your brother, and you are doing whatever you can to help him. That, in of itself, is truly admirable."

Edward stared at her for a minute before a distinct grin crossed his lips as he stood up from his chair. "You always know just what to say to cheer me up," he chuckled, softly, rubbing the auburn haired girl's head.

---

He paused at the door, scratching the back of his head before turning around to face her. "You don't have to keep calling me 'Edward'. 'Ed' is just fine."

He raised an eyebrow as he watched in amusement as the ginger haired girl's face puffed up and her cheeks tinted a light pink color. She looked somewhat constipated.

She shook her head, vigorously. "I-I can't do that!" she sputtered, nervously. "It's too informal!"

He rolled his eyes in exasperation. "How is it informal?"

"I-it just is!"

"Well, I'm allowing you too," he said, nonchalantly.

"Oh, okay." Orihime took a deep breath. "Ed…" Her cheeks puffed up. "...ward," she finished, nervously. She threw her hands over her mouth, feeling flustered. "I'm sorry! I can't! It's too hard!"

Edward sighed. "You are only making it hard." He looked her, expectedly. "Now, try again."

The auburn haired girl tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, nervously, licking her dry lips. "Ed...die." She threw her head into her pulling, too flustered to look him in the eye

"Eddie?" He rose a skeptical eyebrow. Simply calling him 'Ed' was this difficult for the girl? How ridiculous. She always seems to make every little thing incredible hard.

He simply sighed, shaking his head in bemusement. "You know what? Just call me whatever you like."

Orihime lifted her head, smiling at him. "Okay, Eddie."

---

Edward stopped mid rant when someone crashed into him, making both him and the newcomer fall over.

"Are you alright, Ed?" Alphonse asked, concerned.

Edward let out a small grunt of pain. When he cracked an eye open, the first thing he spotted where a pair of big boobs hovering over his face. The blond's face turned a crimson red color.

He quickly tried to scramble out from underneath her. The girl on top of him sat up straighter, holding her head in pain, completely forgetting the compromising position they were in.

They first thing Ed noticed about her, besides her large chest size, was her unusual auburn colored hair and her big, round, gray eyes. She was also a few inches taller than him, much to his annoyance.

"Oh! I'm so sorry!" the burnt-orange haired girl apologized, quickly scrambling off of him.

She held her hand out for him, which he took, pulling him to his feet.

"Are you okay?" she asked, her eyes roaming his body, checking for injuries.

Edward dusted himself off. "Don't worry about it. I'm fine."

"Are you alright, miss?"

The auburn haired girl glanced up to see a giant suit of metal armor speak to her. By the sound of his voice, he seemed young, perhaps younger than her.

"Oh, don't worry about me," she replied, rubbing the back of her head. "I'm so clumsy, I'll probably be hurt anyway." She glanced over towards the blond. "If you hadn't broken my fall, I'd might've cracked my head open, loss a lot blood, gone to state of shock, and died right here!" A big grin broke across her face. "Thank you!"

The Elric brothers were at a loss for words. Who could talk about their death so cheerfully? "D-don't mention it," Edward finally replied after a moment of slight shock. "Glad we can keep you alive."

"By the way, who are you?" the girl asked. "I haven't seen you around before."

"I'm the Fullmetal Alchemist, Edward Elric," he replied, pointing to himself. Then he pointed towards the boy in the metal armor. "And this is my younger brother, Alphonse."

Gray eyes glanced between the two brothers. She noted the smaller one of the two siblings scowling at her, his expression becoming more and more irritable.

Edward was just waiting for her to comment on his height.

She opened her mouth. "You…"

Here it comes. He was ready to lash out at her.

"...Wear red."

"Who are you calling…?!" The blond alchemist paused in the middle of his rant to process what she just said. "Wait… What did you say?"

"I said, you wear red," the burnt-orange haired girl repeated once more. "Is red your favorite color?"

"Yeah…," he answered. He could only stare at her, dumbly. This was getting weird.

The girl smiled. "Did you know that you can tell a lot about a person's personality based on their favorite color? The color red means you are a very passionate and ambitious person. You are also very kind and helpful."

Ed didn't know how to reply as she continued to rant about the color red.

---

Suddenly, a stream of bright orange light shot at the dark skinned man, causing him to jump back, preventing him from delivering a killing blow on Edward.

"Edward! Alphonse! Are you guys okay?!"

All three of them turned towards the sound of the feminine voice to see an auburn haired girl approaching the scene.

"Orihime?!" Alphonse exclaimed, shocked.

"What the hell are you doing?! Get out of here! It's dangerous!" Edward yelled, angrily, most likely born from worry over the girl's safety.

Orihime stood in front of him, protectively. "Then let me be selfish and protect you two of my own volition."

She glanced behind her and vaguely and her eyes widened for a fraction of a second at Edward's missing right arm and Alphonse's half destroyed body. They were more injured than she perceived they'll be.

"Girl, you should listen to the boy and run away," the man hissed. "If you interfere, I would not spare you from God's wrath."

She gave the assailant a half smile. "Sorry, but I can't do that. I can't leave my friends here to be killed by you!"

"Don't be stupid, Orihime!" Ed shouted. "He'll kill you!"

She took an involuntary step forward, staring the man down. "Then I'd just have to make sure he doesn't." A golden stream dug itself in the ground a couple of inches in front of Edward going about two meters in length. "Edward, please look after your brother. I'll make sure he doesn't take one step across this line."

"So…?" The man glared at the ginger haired girl through his sunglasses. "You are planning to protect the Fullmetal Alchemist?"

"I said before, I won't let you hurt my friends!" Orihime reiterated, determinedly.

---

"What do you mean by 'yes and no'?" Ridel voiced out the question that was puzzling everyone. "Have you done this or not?"

"...Technically, I have," Orihime drawled out, slowly, not sure how exactly to answer his questions. She has deliver babies, just not human babies.

"What's that supposed to mean? Why can't you give a straight answer?"

Orihime could see the soon to be father becoming hysterical. Maybe her wording wasn't the best idea. Time to go for the half truth.

"I have delivered babies before," she said as simple as that. That seemed to calm the man down, as he took that as a 'yes', she does know how to deliver a baby.

"But this…," she started. "This would be a bit different. A bit more crude," she said in a warning tone.

"What do you mean by that?" Satella questioned, voice full of dread and puzzlement.

Orihime's eyes gazed at everyone in the room, her gray orbs landing on each and every one of them. "Listen up, everyone!" she addressed them in a calm and confident tone. "Please, I would need the help of each and every one of you! We are going to be operating a C section."

"A C section?" Winry uttered, confused. "What's that?"

That was Orihime was afraid of. No one here knows about C sections. Of course. C sections won't become a thing until a couple of decades from now.

A shiver of anxiety and fear slithered up her spine on how she was going to explain what a C section, but she swiftly stomped that hesitation down. This was no time for second thoughts!

"It's another way to deliver a baby," she informed them, calmly. "It's different than the normal way. We are going to have to cut the mother's belly open, and take the baby from inside." She decided to keep the explanation short and simple.

"WHAT?!" Exclaims of shock and shrieks of horror and distress filled the room.

"Cut Satella's stomach open?! We can't do that, Orihime!" Alphonse protested, fearfully.

"Where the fuck did you get crazy idea like that?!" Edward joined, his eyebrows furrowed into a furious frown.

"That's why I said it would be a bit more crude than what you are normally used to," she shouted back, voice firm and poised. "It would be easy to get the first baby out, but what I noticed is that the second baby is positioned in a way that would make extremely difficult, perhaps unsafe for Mrs. Satella to birth it the usual way. This is why I need you guys' help, too!"

She stared at them, all of them dead in the eye, no signs of fear or hesitation. There was nothing but the strong, intense feeling of conviction and determination in her gray orbs. "We don't have time to argue with each other. We have to do this now. There is no other choice! You all are just going to have to trust me."

She received a round of hesitant nods in response.

Orihime fisted her hands at her side. She had to the C section. As long as she feels the babies' faint spirit energy inside their mother, she was certain she would know their positions at all times.

"We won't succeed unless we try!" she shouted, determinedly.

---

The ginger haired girl stared at the tiny box with wonder interest before reaching out and gingerly taking it out of his hands.

The box felt soft and smooth to the touch. Her gray eyes glanced up, staring into his golden orbs, questionably, trying to see if she could figure out what was in the box by reading facial expression. He inclined his head, egging her on to open it.

The auburn haired girl slowly unveiled the tiny box with baited breath. An awestruck gasp escaped from her lips as she eyed, wondrously at what was inside.

There was a beautiful pair of rosy pink colored rose stud earrings inside!

"Earrings?" Her gray orbs glowed with exuberant delight, her mouth hung open in stupefying astonishment as if she couldn't believe what she was seeing. "You got me earrings? They're earrings!" she squealed in excitement once the whole thing registered in her mind. "No one has ever bought me earrings before."

"Ah, good," Edward sighed in relief. "I was worried you wouldn't like them."

"Like them? I love them!" she cried out, happily. "Thank you, Eddie!"

Orihime gasped as if realizing something. She glanced down at her feet, shamefully.

Ed tilted his head, somewhat puzzled by her sudden loss of enthusiasm. "What's wrong, Orihime?"

She looked up at him, sadly. "I… I didn't get you anything, Eddie," she whispered out, regretfully. She felt so bad. He got her a wonderful gift, and she got him nothing.

"Is that all?" Edward scoffed, waving her off. "Don't worry about it. You are always there for me and Al. Just think of it as a 'thank you' gift.

Orihime beamed. "Okay!" She then deflated. "Oh, wait… I don't have pierced ears."

The blond boy tsked. He knew that was going to be a problem. "Um, I think Winry knows how to pierce ears. She did hers herself, after all. Why don't you go ask her?" he suggested, lamely.

She brightened up at that. "Really? She can? Yay!" Her face then contorted into a look of fear as she paced across the room, muttering to herself. "But won't it hurt? Oh, I want to wear them though!"

She was debating over whether or not to get her ears pierced. What would her friends back home say? Would they like them? Would they disapprove? Would they call her a bad girl for getting pierced ears?

"Just do it," Ed encouraged her. "I'm sure you'll look great."

Orihime stopped and stared at him. Then her gray eyes glanced, tenderly at the earrings in her hands. "Okay," she agreed. She glanced up at him. "Thank you, Eddie," she uttered out, a small, radiant smile adorning her face before she skipped out of them.

For a second there, Edward's heart skipped a beat. Orihime smiled at him. She smiled at him! Not one of those outgoing, cheerful smiles, but that soft, reserved, cheerful, and genuinely happy smile. He felt a jolt of ecstatic electricity flutter through him. His heart swelled a bit because, at that moment, he was the one that made her happy.

That smile… That happiness… It was all just for him.

---

A moment of perpetual silence operated between them.

"I always loved the rain," Orihime finally spoke, wistfully. "Just how the rain connects the earth and sky, I sometimes wondered if I was the rain, would I be able to connect with other people's feelings and feel their pain?"

The blond alchemist stayed quiet, not knowing what to say.

"You know… Eddie, I was trapped in a dream," she said, dejected. "A dream where I forgot all about Winry and Alphonse, even you."

Edward frowned, not knowing what to say. A puddle of subtle anger coursing through him. He didn't know why felt angry, he just did.

"It was like my whole life was back to how it was before I met all of you, before I came to Amestris," Orihime uttered, her voice lacing with wistful longing and doleful ruefulness.

Ed opened his mouth to say something, but kept it close, not knowing what to say. Although, he couldn't help the lingering feeling of happiness that bubbled inside him, the butterflies that fluttered in the pit of his stomach wouldn't stop their gentle buzziness. Maybe he felt this way because it was the first time Orihime was willingly opening up to him without feeling like she was being evasive with her words. She was being genuinely honest and sincere. He felt somewhat delighted that she was more open and trusting towards him.

"I was happy," Orihime continued, her fingers twisting into the fabric of her gray skirt. "I was back home with my friends." Her hands started shaking. "But then, I started to hear your voice, Eddie. Your voice was calling me, it awakened something inside of me." Her voice started to tremble as stifled sobs escaped her due to her heartfelt confession. "I was...strangely happy. I was incredibly elated to hear you calling to me. It made be realize that everything we've been through together was real. It held significant meaning to me. If it wasn't for you," she choked out through her silent, ecstatic sobs. "If it wasn't for you, I wouldn't have been able to escape that dream world. Thank you, Edward!"

The ginger haired girl bit the bottom of quivering lips. "Just know that I would do everything in my power to help you and Al get your bodies!" she declared, determined. "That's a promise!"

---

Both young teenagers stayed in relatively silence, just enjoying Orihime's cookies and the quiet night air. When they both reached for the last cookie, their hands instantly touched, sending a jolt of shock through their entire beings.

Edward glanced, his face flush a deep scarlet red, not realizing how close their faces were. He could make out the smooth skin of Orihime's heart shaped face. Her enchanting, gray eyes shining as bright as the moon under the starry night sky. The light was making the lovely gray turning into a mesmerizing sliver. They were just alluring and captivating as ever. They were hypnotically beautiful. There was so many emotions behind those eyes. Such tender and care, warm and joy... It was so ridiculously easy to get lost in them. It never fully registered to him just how much attractively dazzling her eyes were.

Ed involuntarily leaned in closer.

Orihime was simply lost in Edward's own divine, golden orbs. They were so majestic and powerful. The determination in them, reminded her so much of Ichigo. She simply couldn't look away! She didn't want to look away! She was entrapped, completely under a spell. Such fiery determination with small glimmer of tender warmth beneath it… They were as bright as the sun. Ablazed with the intensity of a burning inferno. They were hot. They were captivating. They were beautiful. Like the sun.

Orihime subconsciously leaned in closer.

Their hands unconsciously interlocked as they were completely locked in each other's eyes. Their faces were flushed slightly red, the throbbing of their heartbeats pounded against their ears in a symphony of music. The electric jolt of adrenaline coursed through their entire bodies, sending butterflies to flutter around in their stomach.

The world around them completely disappeared. It was just the two of them and this moment as they leaned in every so agonizingly closer. More and more, perfectly drawn to one another, like two magnets. They could feel their hot breaths slapping against the other's skin. They could hear the faint sound of soft music playing. However, they were not sure if it was real or just their imagination. The tension in the atmosphere becoming intoxicating as they leaned in, slowly nearing the gap centimeter by centimeter.

Until finally…

Their lips touched.

---

"Hey, listen!"

Orihime perked up at the sound of Edward's dramatic voice, his golden eyes lighting up with assertive determination and presumptuous confidence, pointing a demanding finger at her. Although, she could see his cheeks were tainted red. In embarrassment or anger, she couldn't tell.

"I'm not the one who's going to protected by you, okay? From now on, you'd be protected by me! No excuses! Got it?"

(END OF FLASHBACK)

Edward's golden eyes flew open in an instant. A raging fire of fierce determination blazed, vividly underneath its golden depths. What the hell was he doing? Al… Nina… Orihime… They are all waiting for him. How could he give up now? Didn't He promise Al he would get his body back, no matter what?

And more importantly…!

More importantly…!

Ed promised Orihime that… From now on… Now on… He would be the one to protect her!

He used every last ounce of strength, every last willpower he had left to slowly grip her shoulders. He felt her shoulders tense, but she made no attempt to move. Not when Amelia was so close from draining this boy of his life's energy. His hurt and despair was appetizing!

However… Her black eyebrows scrunched in confusion. What is this? Something warm and fuzzy was buzzing through. A lighthearted feeling of fiery passion and burst out from the darkness. What happened to all the jealousy and bitterness that was there moments ago?

Suddenly, Amelia yelped in pain and surprised. She spontaneously leapt away from Ed, her mouth twisted in pain. Anger flashed in her blue orbs. The little bastard just bit her tongue!

Edward wobbled out of the couch. He was slightly dizzy, his body drained of energy. Nonetheless, he couldn't collapse. Not until he beat this bitch to bloody pulp. She was probably the who caused all the disappearances. Not to mention she's making his brother and friends suffer in her demented illusions.

Plus… Plus… He needed to make one thing clear to this arrogant bitch!

"Shut up!" Edward glowered at the woman, despite his unsteady from, rage burning in his eyes. "You don't understand a damn thing about me! So, what if I'm jealous? Do you really think I would hurt Orihime over a stupid reason like that? Yeah, I do find myself wondering where do I belong inside her heart? Is there even a place for me?" He gripped his chest, tightly, the spot where his aching heart lay, his tone becoming more subdued and low spirited along with a hint of sadness and anguish. "And sure, there was a part of me wishing she never met Ichigo, imagining what it would be like if she never even knew his name. Lately, my mind has been plagued by thoughts about her and Ichigo...and about me. Seeing her with another man drives me mad, almost to the point of insanity. It hurts. When it comes between Orihime and Ichigo, where am I in the picture? I agonized over it so much inside me, my heart was beginning to burst. A burning, nauseating feeling in the pit of my stomach began to stir up. It's unbearable and too devastating to watch or to even think about. My chest tightens so much it becomes hard to breath sometimes. In that illusion back there, the one you say that brings out our heart's innermost darkest and despairing fears, when I saw her and Ichigo together, the only thing my mind could think of was that 'Orihime has been taken away from me'. When it comes to Ichigo, there's no place for me. I realized, at that moment, what that pain in my heart meant. ...I'm jealous," he uttered out, a tiny smile of resignation graced his lips. "But it wasn't any ordinary jealousy. This one stung at the core of my being like a white hot vice unwilling to let go. I'm jealous of the bond her and Ichigo share. It hurts so much! And I don't know if this pain would ever go away. Seeing her with someone else… I don't want it. I don't want her with anyone else!" he screamed out, his emotions fuming with indignant displeasure and disgruntled discontentment, furiously shaking his head. "Hehe," an acquiescent laugh escaped him. "Maybe I am just hurt and petty and bitter like you said. Guess, men are just naturally possessive. Or it could be just me. Yes, it hurts. It hurts seeing them together like that. Even if it was just my fears playing with my mind. But what hurts more is the thought of doing anything to make Orihime cry," he snarled, his outcry shaking the walls of the building and his golden eyes ablazed with renewed vigor and determination. "So let me fucking tell you something, you bitch! If you ever lay a finger on Orihime, I will obliterate you! I will protect her! That's a promise!"

Amelia wasn't the least bit intimidated. She was quite shocked though, when he managed to break free from her grasp by sheer willpower. She offered a sarcastic clap for Ed's outstanding performance. "My, my, thanks for that fantastic display," she mocked him, callously, her dark pink lips twisted into a wicked smirk. "A young man trying to play the knight in shining armor, and attempting to rescue the princess from an evil witch. How fascinating." Her blue eyes turned as cold and unforgiving as sheet ice.

Her teeth sharpened into fangs and her nails lengthened into claws. Edward witnessed her transformation, preparing for a fight. Was she a human chimera? Like Greed's underlings back in Dublith?

Unexpectedly, he felt a sheering pain on right side and something crack underneath. He groaned in pain as his back roughly crashed against the wall. He was pretty sure some of ribs had broken during that impact. What the hell was that? He didn't see anything! What hit him?

He didn't have time to react as his body was once again flung around, crashing against the nearby vase, and shattering it into pieces. He coughed off blood. Damn! This is just like the time with Dr. Marcoh. An invisible entity... Strange, seemingly random attacks…

He cried out in stunned affliction. His back was being crushed by something large and heavy. In agony, he twisted his head to see what was weighing him down so painfully. However, much to his shock and bewilderment, nothing was there! How could that be? Something was obviously on top of him, the massive pressure he felt on his back was real enough. But he… He couldn't see anything! No matter where he looked, his eyes landed on nothing.

The blond boy glared at the smirking woman. She was enjoying this. She was enjoying his suffering. Oh…! When he gets his hands on her, he was going to ring her neck with his bare hands! He struggled and thrashed his body around, only to pause when he felt something. His golden orbs broadened in surprise, and slowly moved his hand around the spot he was touching, carefully inspecting it just by touch. He could not see anything, but...but something was definitely there. He could feel it! Something rough and scaly. That's what's pressing down on him. It felt so oddly strange that he could feel something he can't even see.

"You forced my hand, little Edward," Amelia clicked her tongue, seductively licking her dark pink lips. A tick mark grew on Ed's forehead, but he was in too much pain to offer an angry retort. "You could've chosen a peaceful and blissful death of being kissed by a beautiful woman."

Edward could only growl at the deplorable bitch in defiance, cursing his helplessness. His body was already drained and weak, and now some invisible force was crushing the life out of him. Can this get any worse?

There was a still and tense silence.

Amelia, all of a sudden, cried out in pain, and the terribly heavy weight on Ed was lifted off. He gasped out in relief, taking deep breaths of air. His throat was dry and raspy from lack of oxygen.

"I thought I sensed a presence of Hollow," a stoic feminine rang out. "So, this was where it was coming from, I presume?"

Edward recognized that voice. Mixed emotions of anger and confusion flooded through him. He reached out with his automail arm, and using the wall to support himself, he climbed up on unsteady legs. His vision was slightly blurry and he was exhausted, but he was surprised to see the new occupant in the room.

Eria was standing in the middle of the room, her brown eyes staring Amelia, who's face seemed to be twisted in fury and pain.

The black haired woman glared at her. "Who are you?" she glowered.

She regarded her, coldly and warily. "Eria. And just who are you? Or, should I say, what are you? The stench of a Hollow reeks from you."

Now Ed was even more mystified. That was the second time Eria mentioned that word. Hollows. What are Hollows?

"You seemed to be nothing but a human woman," Eria said, her voice taking a sharp and disapproving turn. "But the evil spiritual energy of a Hollow reeks from you." Her brown eyes glared in disgust. "Just one glance at you, and I can tell the entire account. It's rather pathetic. A disgraceful woman selling her soul to a Hollow. How truly pathetic."

A wicked, sinister laugh escaped from Amelia. "Pathetic, huh? Such simple minded words from someone who doesn't understand what true power and eternal beauty is."

Ed was becoming pretty ticked off by the fact that these two women were practically ignoring him. "Can someone tell me what the hell's going on?" He pointed an angry and accusing finger at both of them. "Eria! You said that this…" His eyes glared at Amelia. "Disgusting bitch," he spat out. "Was a Hollow. Why don't you start with that? Just what the hell was a Hollow?"

He was rudely interrupted when a strong force slammed against his stomach. He grunted in pain while he coughed out spats of blood and saliva. He landed unceremoniously on the floor. A distressed hiss escaped him.

"What a boorish boy," Amelia scoffed at him, feeling quite annoyed by his interruption. "I should just kill you right now."

A golden glare was cast her way. "Screw you!"

Amelia shot him a sultry look that made him sneer at her in revulsion. "Don't worry," she retorted, an acidic salacious tone to her voice. "That's what I would be doing to you soon enough as I suck out the rest of your life's energy."

"But first…" Blue eyes glared, furiously at Eria. "I have to get rid of this nuisance who dares to disrupt my home!"

Ed could only greatly nonplussed and horrifyingly discombobulated. He couldn't fathom what the fuck was going on. Only sounds of loud clashes and the echoing of glass shattering as things were destroyed at random. He was pretty sure his eyes weren't screwed, nor was his head knocked hard enough to make him gain a concussion.

This whole obscure and scene was bringing back vivid memories of the time with Dr. Marcoh. That mysterious explosion in the middle of turn followed by an unknown, gigantic crater. Bizarrely, no one was in sight. There wasn't a person, smell, or even a sound. However, he was shocked and stunned when people started dying left and right. Body parts flying. Blood splattering everywhere.

The blond alchemist was left flummoxed and unable to comprehend what was happening. And it was not just him. Everyone was rendered frightened and speechless. Screams of terror sounded out, and the townsfolk was left in disarray. Apparently, only Orihime, Nina, and Alexander could see 'it'. Whatever 'it' was.

Orihime acted immediately, her face set into grim determination. Despite his worry and confusion, she acted alone, even though she was still recovering from her bout with Scar. Quickly, he became frustrated. Not just at her for acting so reckless, but at himself for being so weak and powerless. And on impulse, he chased after her, leaving his younger brother, Dr. Marcoh, and Nina behind to look after the disordered town in case anything else happens.

The blond boy could hear faint clashes out in the distance. His adrenaline and panic increasing as minutes passed. The closer he got, the louder the noise became. He was greeted by destruction and mayhem as he followed the sound of devastation the more he advanced in his pursuit. A rumbling smash, and the breaking of glass was just overhead, meaning he was close by. A wreckage of nearby building wasn't even to disrupt him from his path. The only thought on his mind was getting to Orihime as quickly as possible. Didn't he make a promise? That next time… Next time...he'd be the one to protect her?

In the distance, he spotted Orihime and his fretful mind went into overdrive. She was badly injured, and yet she was still fighting. Seeing her struggle with whatever was attacking her caused his protective instincts to kick in.

His confusion wasn't lifted though because, once again, he was met with nothing. He had presumed that the enemy must've ran away. Worry turned into anger. He was ready to give Orihime a piece of his mind. However, her panicked and fearful expression stopped him. She wasn't looking at him. She was looking at what was behind him.

In the next instant, he felt a stabbing, intense pain from his shoulder to lower back. Something had struck him. But who? And where? He couldn't see anything. All he remembered before he blacked out from the pain was Orihime screaming his name in horror and distraught.

Edward's befuddling mind was left in a jumbling mess. His teeth gritted in aggravation, his automail hand clenched in frustration. He cursed himself that day. He wasn't able to do a damn thing. Just like with those mod souls. He was weak and useless. He cursed his own powerlessness!

He promised her… He promised Orihime that next time things would be different. That he'd be the one to protect her. But… But…! But…! He hasn't done anything! Nothing at all! In the end, he was the one who always needed protecting. He was so damn useless he couldn't stand it!

No! He would not be useless again! He would not be a burden! That's got to be something he could do! Anything!

Golden eyes widened in shock. He could see something! It was faint. He could barely discern it. Just the outline, but it was there! It was shimmering like heat waves.

He blinked, wondering if all the pain and blood loss was causing him to start hallucinating. Nevertheless, the heat wave was still there. So… It wasn't his imagination? The thing...was it a tail? The appendage tried slamming against Eria, who jumped to avoid the oncoming impact, and it crashed against the bookcase. The shelf rumbled, some of the cracked, and books fell and scattered on the ground.

Yep! This was definitely not his imagination. Okay… Then what the hell was it? Didn't matter. At least, now he had some vague idea on where to attack. That's better than shooting at random.

Ed watched as Eria dodged another attack, and sent a blast of spirit energy at Amelia. It hit her dead on, and she screamed in pain and agony. Using this chance, he clapped his hands and slammed them on the ground. Sparks of alchemic energy sprang about, and a barrel of spikes hurled at the seemingly invisible appendage. He smirked in smug satisfaction when he witnessed Amelia cry out. Payback's a bitch, isn't it?

That smirk didn't last long. "You stupid brat!" the dark haired, life sucking woman roared, enraged. "I'll kill you!"

He saw something sharp and pointy heading his way. Was it a knife? No, maybe a claw? Whatever it was, it was headed straight towards him. He didn't have time to dodge, not in his injured state. He closed his eyes, bracing himself for the impact. But...it never came.

The blond alchemist slowly cracked an eye open to reveal Eria hovering over him, and a protective barrier laced out in front of her. Next thing he knew a blast of energy exploded, blinding him, and he was dragged away by the collar of his red coat.

---

The duo was currently hiding in the room a few doors down. The soft, orange glow of Eria's hand raked over Edward's beaten form as she began to heal his injuries. "I didn't think you'd still be alive," she said, indifferently.

Ed tsked. "Takes a lot more than that to keep me down," he replied, proudly, despite grunting in pain here and there.

Orihime's incarnation rolled her eyes at his tough guy act.

"Who the hell is she anyway?" he asked, both in anger and curiosity.

"To put it in simplest terms, so they even you can understand… She used to be a human woman who lived centuries ago," she answered.

"That's not possible!" Ed remarked with disbelief. "That woman looks to be in her mid twenties, and you're saying she's actually hundreds of years old?! It can't be! It's impossible!"

"That would be impossible, if she was still human," she replied, grimly, her facial features twisted in disgust.

Ed rose an inquisitive eyebrow. "Still human? What do you mean? She seems human to me."

Eria sighed and shook her head, exasperated as if she was talking to a naive child, which caused him to growl, lowly. "It amazes me. Your naivety truly amazes me."

"Yeah, yeah, I'm ignorant. Just tell me already!" he yelled back, impatiently.

"Have you ever heard of the phrase 'don't make a deal with the devil'?" the dark haired healer started to explain. "I'll shorten it for you. I don't have time for a long winded explanation...because…" She paused, narrowing her eyes at the closed door. "Amelia has recovered, and is searching for us right now."

The muscles in the blond alchemist's body tensed up, and the hairs on the back of his neck stood on end. A bead of trepidation glided down the side of his face. "She is?"

"Yes. Luckily, I have put up a barrier to conceal our presence. It would take her a while to find us."

Ed didn't know if he should be relieved or not.

"Long ago, Amelia made a wish. She wished for power. Power and beauty. She searched, desperately for the answers to immortality." Eria heard Ed scoffed at the ridiculous notion of immortality. She had to agree with him though. It was an incredibly foolish concept. "One day, she had the opportunity to make her wish come true. She was offered a deal, and she accepted it without hesitation. She sold her soul in exchange for power and beauty. Of course, the deal had a minor setback. And now she requires the lives of others in order to preserve her own. She also tends to have a preference towards men. Young men," she finished, looking at the blond boy, expectantly.

Somehow sensing what she was implying, Edward blushed in embarrassment. "Shut up! I did not come here of my own free will!" he snapped, flustered.

Eria didn't comment, but that just caused his humiliation and frustration to grow. "I have no interest in sick hag like that," he clipped, indignantly. "Besides… Orihime's cuter. Way cuter." After he uttered those words, all the blood he had rushed to his face.

Eria eyed him, uncaringly. "So, you're insinuating that you wouldn't mind falling into this trap, if Orihime had been the one seducing you?"

"Th-th-that's not what I meant, at all!" Ed sputtered, frantically, feeling incredibly flustered and embarrassed.

She rolled her eyes. "Whatever. Keep your fantasies to yourself."

To avoid any further embarrassment, Ed decided to drop the subject. "Eria," he glared at her, suspiciously. "What brings you out here anyway? If you're here to kill Orihime, I swear I'll-!"

She scoffed, removing her hand away from him, seeing that she healed him as much as she could. She casually dusted some invisible dirt off her dress. "I'm not interested in ending her wretched life. No matter how much I despise Orihime, I must admit I retained one good quality from her."

Edward didn't but it for a second, but he decided to drop it for now. His mind flash backed to what Eria told him before.

"We both desire the heart of the same man."

Well, maybe he could, but there was a more pressing matter to attend to. Like trying to not get killed by a perverted, psychotic woman! Until then he was just have to keep an eye on Eria.

He climbed up onto his feet. He stretched his limbs and muscles. His body wasn't in much pain anymore, but there was still a dull ache around his flesh arm and ribs. "Thanks for healing my injuries," he grumbled, begrudgingly before shooting Eria a pointed glare. "This doesn't mean I trust you, Eria. Let's just make one thing clear… I'm still determined to rip Orihime's stolen soul right out of your body, and put it back where it belongs!"

"I don't need nor want your trust," Eria responded, indifferently. "What you do doesn't matter to me. Do what you want."

Edward meant to such an angry degree when he said he didn't trust Eria. No, as long as Eria carried the stolen parts of Orihime's soul, there was no he could trust her. Even now...just being reminded of that thought...he conjuring ways to retrieve Orihime's soul back.

Conversely, for now, he'd put up with Eria. Survival comes first. If putting up with this...fake Orihime means increasing his chances of survival, then, no matter how much he loathes the idea, he would team up with her. Besides, Eria seems to be able to see whatever he's 'seeing' more clearly than him. He doesn't know the reason for this, but he would use it to his advantage.

He had to survive, so he could save Alphonse, Orihime, Nina!

---

Amelia was incandescent. Not only has she lost a precious meal, but she also wasn't expecting that bitch to show up. No matter. This is just a minor setback. She would kill that bitch.

Her lips twisted into a sultry smile, and she seductively licked her dark pink lips. Afterwards, she'd give that handsome, young man a steamy, hot kiss he would never forget. Even after death.

Amelia paused in surprise when alchemic energy burst at her, transforming the ground to trap her in a cage. "What the…?" she spoke in confusion. "What is this?"

"I caught you!" That was the alchemist's voice. She could practically hear the arrogant smirk in his tone.

Edward smirked, proudly, having caught the evil witch. He didn't know whether to believe Eria's story about Amelia selling her soul in exchange for immortality. It all sounded like a load of crap. But still… It did confirm that this despicable bitch was responsible for all the disappearances in this area, and for that she must pay for her crimes.

He stared with stunned surprise when his makeshift cage was broken and Amelia leapt through with ease. "Damn," he clicked his tongue in annoyance. "This won't be as easy as I thought."

"So, you finally decided to come out of hiding, lover boy?" the dark haired woman purred, alluringly. She flirtatiously flipped a few strands of hair over her shoulder. "Does that mean you're ready for another round of hot, passionate make out session?"

"Keep your sick thoughts to yourself, you pervert!" Ed retorted, aggravated, pointing an aggressive finger at her, his face red with anger and embarrassment.

She pouted, disappointed. "Would you be more willing, if I looked like Orihime? Because I can, if it makes it easier for you."

The blond alchemist growled. If looks could kill, this woman would be buried thirty feet under. He was shaking, absolutely fuming with outraged fury. "Don't you dare use Orihime's face for your twisted games, you disgusting bitch!" he roared, viciously.

She scowled, displeased and greatly annoyed at the prospect of being thoroughly rejected. For these past years, she was used to distraught and desperate men crawling at her feet, hopelessly begging to be loved and comforted. This was the first time someone was so resistant to her womanly charms. It wounded her pride, and that infuriated her.

She gritted her teeth. "Fine!" she countered, angrily. "If that's the way you want it, you little brat, I'll hold you down and steal a sloppy, wet kiss from you and your life!"

The blond alchemist sneered in repulsion. He didn't have time to yell out a comeback as one of those nearly intangible things tried to lash at him. He yelped in surprise, and jumped out of the way. Sensing an oncoming assault, he hurriedly scrambled to his feet and dashed away to avoid being struck from the barrage of attacks.

Amelia laughed with malicious glee. "Where are you running to, little boy?"

Hiding behind the wall behind the doorway, Ed popped his head out with a comically enraged look on his countenance. "WHO ARE YOU CALLING SO SMALL HE COULD HIDE UNDER A PEBBLE?!" he lashed out, completely incensed, only to let out a startled yelp and duck out of the way from a mad slash, which splittered a hole on the door frame.

He took a deep breath, panting in relief. Eria was right. Despite how limited his vision was, this narrow hallways makes it easier to see and predict Amelia's movement.

When Ed heard Amelia cry out in shock and pain, he grinned, smugly victorious. Yes! The plan worked. Using himself as bait was a great way to catch her off guard. She was so preoccupied with catching him, she didn't see Eria's attack coming. In the end, her obsession with men became her downfall.

He stalked back into the room to witness Amelia withering on the ground in obvious pain, and Eria standing over her with a cold look in her brown eyes.

He clapped his hands, ready to restrain her, only to be stopped by Orihime's incarnation's outstretched hand.

"Don't waste unnecessary energy. She would die within minutes," Eria stated, matter of factly.

"What?!" Anger and disbelief colored Edward's face. He roughly grabbed the collar of Eria's dress. "I thought I told you not to kill her!"

"And that I thought I told you to keep your naive sense of idealism and mortality to yourself," she responded, dispassionately, coolly removing herself from his grasp. "That foolish notion of yours would only get you killed when fighting a creature like this."

"Creature? Sure, Amelia has done some disgusting acts and she's perverted woman, but she's still a human being!" he retorted, heatedly. "If I killed her, then I denounced my brother's human nature. I will not kill another human!"

"That's why I killed her in your stead," she rebuffed, angrily. "If you won't kill her, then I will!" She sighed, crossing her arms, looking away and puffing up her cheeks. "But if it makes you feel better, I didn't actually kill Amelia. I merely severed her connection with the Hollow. Although, since she's human, she would die unable to sustain her life force any longer," she elaborated.

"Oh! That makes sense," the blond alchemist thought, calming down. He stared down at Amelia, only to shudder when he observed her body slowly shriveling up like a prune. Her skin had sunken in so much, he could see her bones. It was a hideous sight.

"No, it can't be!" she moaned in absolute disbelief. Even her voice sounded raspy and hoarse. The sultry, seductive tone it used to have was completely gone. "My beauty…! It's gone! It's all gone! Gone!" she screamed in horror and anguish right before her body disintegrated into a pile of dust.

Ed just stared at what remained of Amelia, pitifully. "So, this is the price of immortality? Why would she do this? Pursuing something that was impossible to have?"

"Because she's human," was Eria's quick and cold response. "A pathetic, worthless human. Humans are such greedy and selfish creatures. Arrogant and self centered to a fault. They're always easily influenced by their own narrow minded foolishness. That loathsome existence… That's what it means to be human."

Her brown eyes drifted towards the young boy, critically. "Let me offer you piece of advice, Ed. Whether you like it or not, you are going to have to learn how to fight to kill."

Edward was about to offer a snide remark, but it was interrupted by a loud scream. His golden orbs widened as he instantly recognized that voice.

"Orihime!" he shouted in fear and worry.

He made a mad dash out of the house, leaving in a frantic hurry. Eria watched him as he left.

Yes, indeed Amelia was right. Humans are selfish and possessive creatures. But having that quality within them makes them so beautiful.

---

"Orihime? Orihime! Calm down, please! It's me! Alphonse!"

Al had tried, fruitlessly for minutes now to appease a hysterical Orihime, but to no avail. Orihime was holding her head in anguish, and her entire body was trembling, terribly. Her face was smeared with fearful tears. The way she gazed at him with such terrified, gray eyes hurt. The ground before her was stained with a disgustingly brown, half digested, gooey substance.

He tried reaching out for again, only for her to scream in horror and fright and quickly back away whilst flinching.

"Big sis." Tears brimmed at the corner of Nina's eyes as she was at a loss to do to ease Orihime's agitated, panic state. She had never seen her like this. She was confused and helpless on how to help her big sister figure.

"What's going on here?"

A new voice entered the fray as the blond alchemist made his appearance, a look of worry and concern etched on his face.

"Ed!"

"Big brother!"

Al and Nina both shouted, simultaneously in relief.

Edward relaxed a little when it seemed like there was no danger and his younger brother and Nina were alright. However, when his golden gaze landed on Orihime, the perturbed on his expression returned tenfold.

"Orihime?" He stepped closer to her, only to have her flinch and scream. She was so afraid and upset. He had never seen her this terrified. He crouched down until he was at eye level with her. "Orihime…" He tried reaching out for her, but she winced and swiped at his hand as if it was some revolting insect she doesn't want anywhere near her.

He could feel a stinging pain in his heart. The way she looked at him… The fear… The unspeakable fright… It pained him in ways he never imagined. She was terrified. Terrified of him. But… But she wasn't looking at him. Her eyes were glazed over as if she couldn't see him.

"I can make Orihime taste your suffering."

Ed inwardly gritted his teeth. Amelia's voice was echoing around him like a poisonous vice. This was his fault. Orihime was suffering because of him. If only he had defeated Amelia sooner.

He tried crawling up to her. Her immediate response was to shriek and swipe at him, frantically. Her hand connected with the right side of his face, leaving a big, red imprint there. It stung, but the sting in his heart was ten times worse.

That didn't stop him though. Not when Orihime was in so much agony and pain.

Ed used her state of momentary shock to grab her wrist and pulled her into his chest, holding her tight. He could feel how badly her body was shaking under his grasp. Her breathing was fast and labored, and she was dripping with sweat. He stayed silent, patting her head, soothingly.

After a few moments, Orihime finally spoke, her voice squeaky and still frightened. "Eddie? Is that you?"

"Yes, Orihime, it's me," Ed whispered in her ear, reassuringly.

"I-I-I recognize your scent." She lifted her head away from him, only to gasp at the red mark on his face. She slowly touched it, tenderly, her fingertips lightly tracing the mark. "Did I…? Did I do this? Did I hurt you?" she mumbled, her soft voice filled with overwhelming guilt and horror at her own actions.

"It's okay. Don't worry about it," he replied, trying to ease her pain and guilt.

That only caused Orihime's face to scrunch up in . She buried her face in his chest, sobbing uncontrollably, her hands clenching onto him for dear life. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry," she muttered into his shirt in an apologetic mantra. Hoping that every 'sorry' would alleviate her regret and shame.

Edward wrapped his arms around her, tightening his embrace. Her tears smearing his shirt, making it wet, but that didn't matter. It pained him. It pained him that all he could do was hold her until she calmed down. She was crying so much. Her body was trembling so much. She was so fragile and vulnerable like a porcelain doll that's been broken. His fingers combed through her auburn locks, trying his best to comfort her because that's all he could offer her right now. Just warmth and comfort.

"Orihime would never love you. You would never have her heart."

That may be true… But even so… Even so… Ed knew where his feelings stand, and that would never change. All he wanted to do… All he needed to do was protect her. Protect Orihime and her beautiful smile.

That's all there is to it.

---

(A/N: That's the end of chapter forty one! Hope you enjoyed it! Wow! This was a super, super, super long chapter. I have spent months working on it. Sorry. I've been busy. I got a lot on my plate. Though, I have some news to inform you all. 'The Flower Princess and the Alchemist' would be ending soon. I would say another eight to ten more chapters. More or less. But there would be a sequel series up. This would be the last arc before this story comes to an end. I plan to have this fanfic done and the sequel up sometime next year. Twenty twenty is a new decade, and I'm ready for it!

Now that the basic information is out of the way, let's get down to some scenes in the chapter that requires an author's explanation. Does Edward now realize he's in love with Orihime? Umm, that is kind of hard to explain. I want to say it's more like he realizes where he stands in the whole Ed/Orihime/Ichigo love triangle. That he's jealous and hurt over Orihime's feelings for Ichigo. So, Ed is still in denial then? Well, no. Not exactly. I purposefully left his confession ambiguous. I'll leave it up to you guys consider whether he finally acknowledges his true feelings for Orihime or not.

Although, I bet some of you were surprised by Edward and Eria teaming up. I liked their interactions. Though, doesn't anyone else get the belligerent sexual tension vibe from them? Not my initial intention, however, I like it. After all, Eria is Orihime. Just bitter and meaner version of her. A shadow archetype. Maybe there is some connection. Maybe someday Ed would realize that Eria is a part of Orihime. And maybe he would be able to accept and be happy that he got to see a part of Orihime Ichigo never got to witness.

Yes, Edward is finally starting to see Hollows! Yay! Although, seeing them fully would still be a slow and gradual process, unlike with Nina. I want to make it a part of Ed's character development of him being more accepting of the supernatural. Now, it's all is left is Al. And Winry, maybe.

That's it. Leave any comments, suggestions, thoughts, and questions in a review, and thanks for reading!)