In Vino Veritas
Usually, Theo Elric enjoyed school even though he already knew most of the things being taught.
But not if the topic was about how his father, Edward Elric, the Fullmetal Alchemist saved the country and became the Hero of the People.
"We're moving on a different topic today. Something more recent." Their history teacher, Ms. Clifford, announced with enthusiasm. "Open your books on chapter 17."
Theo let out a loud groan, already feeling that this was gonna be a long day. He pulled out the book in question and slowly turned the pages onto the right one. He had read this book before, or any other books that the school had given them. But the last chapter of this book was something he was trying to avoid like a hawk, knowing the contents of it.
Theo found the page immediately. Closing his eyes, he breathed in and out. It was his way to not let the embarrassment he was feeling get out of hand. He scanned the page, knowing that this version of the story was different from what he had heard from his father while growing up.
The Promised Day: How Fuhrer King Bradley's Tyranny Ended
It was not about Theo's father per se but he had a critical role over it. Theo knew the story accurately by now. His father would always wound up telling stories about his journey to get back his and his brother's bodies. They finally succeeded on that day thus ending their five-year-long odyssey.
"Now," Ms. Clifford clapped her hands together, making Theo break his deep thoughts away. "From our previous lessons, can you tell me who King Bradley is?"
A Homonculus. Theo thought but didn't dare to answer it out loud.
Liza, one of the students on the front, answered. "He was known to be a dictator. He declared war on our neighboring nations to gain power."
"Yes, very good. So today, we'll learn about how his government was overthrown due to a coup d'etat. It was on March 22, 1915, when then Colonel Roy Mustang and General Olivier Armstrong joined their forces of Eastern and Northern Command to…"
Theo stopped listening at that point. He looked over outside, staring at the people who passed by the roads. Rush Valley was busy at this time of the year due to the good weather. It's also a sign that school is ending in three weeks. It will finally be the break he long-awaited for. Theo was smart, his classmates and teachers knew that. He can pass history class, especially if the test was about a story he had heard from a key witness so many times.
"Psst..." Benny, his friend, and seatmate from the left called. "This is your father, right? Edward Elric?"
Theo turned his head. Benny was grinning at him, pointing at the picture on the textbook. True enough, it was his father who was fifteen at the time. His unusual golden eyes and hair stood out which Theo himself had inherited. He was wearing a familiar red coat that was still somewhere in their house. He wore his usual sardonic smirk on his face. Behind him, a huge armor stood that Theo knew was his Uncle Al.
"Yes," Theo answered simply, suppressing another groan from escaping his lips.
"That's so cool," Benny said, still grinning.
"He looks very handsome, you know. Like straight out from a fairy tale." Julie, the girl on his right, complimented with a dreamy voice.
"Yeah, long golden hair and lovely eyes…" Emma agreed, joining in their conversation.
"Excuse me… What!?" Theo said in an almost shouting voice. He wanted to choke after hearing those words. They were only ten and his girl classmates were swooning over his father. He found it weird, the embarrassment finally catching up to him. A small complimentary blush appeared on his cheeks.
"Theo!" Ms. Cliffod called out sternly, making everyone turn on their backs, looking at him. "We can put that loud mouth of yours to read the next paragraph, don't you think?"
"Yes, ma'am," Theo stood up in a jittery way. He can still hear his classmate's snickerings and conversations in a whisper. Composing himself, he cleared his throat before reading out loud the text on the book in his hands. "Edward Elric, the Fullmetal Alchemist, put an end to Bradley's plan. With the help of his brother, Alphonse Elric, they stopped Bradley's nationwide transmutation circle that could harm the citizens of Amestris."
Theo stood frozen on the spot. He had a huge frown on his face, still repeating the text on his mind. He skimmed over the next paragraphs that were the same. Everything about it… was just straight out wrong. What was written in the book was not a lie, but not the whole truth either. It was composed of half-truths that didn't sit right to Theo, someone who knew the whole story.
The Promised Day was simply painted as a coup d'etat but it was more than that. It almost became a day of massacre, a day of genocide. Another Xerxes that will go down in history being remembered as the country turned into Philosopher's Stone.
His father was not the one who defeated Bradley, it was an Ishvalan called Scar. There was no mention of the people from Xing, Emperor Ling, and his Auntie May helping the Amestrisians. They painted King Bradley to be the villain of it all. But in truth, he was just another pawn. The nationwide transmutation circle was mentioned but didn't explain what it was used for. There was no mention of the Homunculi nor the Immortal Army that protected the true mastermind, Father.
Even if it's for the best of everyone's sake, Theo couldn't accept this. They made that day look like an easy clean-up of Bradley's administration. No, it was a clean-up of a sinister plan that was 400 years in the making, the reason why Amestris was created in the first place.
"Theo? You can sit down now." Ms. Clifford said in concern.
Theo jerked upwards, startled by the order. He nodded slightly before sitting down on his seat.
"Is it true that your Dad was the youngest State Alchemist?"
"Why was your uncle wearing armor, Theo?"
"It must be amazing to have him as a father, huh?"
Theo blinked rapidly at their questions. Everyone at school knew who he was related to but this was the first time some of them had asked about it. He was usually unapproachable due to his temperament. They knew how to respect him but now that the opportunity was open, they let the questions fly.
"Yeah, he became a State Alchemist at twelve. Uncle Al needs the armor for uh… alchemy training. Well, he's rarely home so I don't know how to desc—" He answered rather abruptly before their teacher interjected.
"Everyone, stop with your questions. We're not here for that." Ms. Clifford reminded. "Let's move on,"
Theo breathed out a sigh of relief. He didn't listen to the lesson after that and allowed his mind to wander elsewhere. Brooding was an easy thing to do these days. His mind was constantly bored, wanting to do something different in his life. With a pen in hand, he tapped and fidgeted it on his desk, careful not to create a sound too loud that might disrupt.
Finally, the ring of the school bell was heard, indicating the end of class. With a sigh of relief, Theo smiled. Everyone scrambled to put their things inside their knapsacks and Theo was no different. He stood up, intending to leave the classroom before being halted.
"Must be weird, huh? Studying about your Dad in class?" Benny asked, standing up next to him.
"You have no idea..." Theo grumbled in a low tone.
"I haven't seen you that frozen earlier. You should have seen your face!"
"Well…" Theo trailed, finding the proper words to use. "As you said, it's strange to have a famous father. I just realized it at that moment."
Benny laughed, patting him in the back sympathetically. "Wanna walk home together?"
"Sure," Theo agreed, finding no reason not to.
Side by side, the two walked towards the door. The hallway was buzzing with different voices of students talking to each other about their day. It was still packed-full with people who were formed into groups. As they walked by, Theo averted his eyes, trying to find his little sister but to no avail. They don't usually go back home together but it's nice to be with her sometimes. He concluded that she had probably left.
"What does your father do now? I remember my Mom mentioning that he's not a State Alchemist anymore." Benny asked.
"He writes books, theses, journals, you name it. He's a researcher to be exact." Theo explained before letting out a huge sigh. They finally exited the main building of their school and now walking on the roads. "He travels a lot, too. Studying alchemy from different countries. I haven't seen him in months, to be honest."
"Sorry for my questions. I'm just curious. That's all."
Theo shrugged his shoulders. "It's no problem, really."
They continued their walk down the road with comfortable silence.
After finishing his homework, Theo went downstairs to the kitchen. Their house was a simple two-story one. It was located in the southern part of Rush Valley where the residential area was located.
Opening the door, it first revealed his mother on the kitchen island. She was wearing an apron, hiding the shirt stained with oils and polishing gels after a long day of work. Her hair was tied up in a messy bun. She concentrated on cutting up the vegetables the same way she does whenever she worked on automails. Theo examined the ingredients laid out and concluded that it would probably be casserole for dinner tonight.
"Hi Mom," Theo greeted with a huge smile. He approached and struggled to climb up and sit on the barstool.
"Hello, Theo," Winry marveled, putting down the knife she was holding. She leaned over the counter, brushing the few strands of his hair out of his face. She kissed him on the forehead and Theo's smile widened.
"Aren't you gonna greet me, too, brother?"
Theo turned to see Cyra, his sister a year younger than him, sitting across. He blinked, not realizing that she was there the whole time. She looked small compared to the book that was currently in her hands. She was wearing a simple black and white striped shirt and overall pants. Her blonde hair was tied up onto a double braid. Her blue eyes were narrowed, staring straight at him.
"Hello, Cyra," Theo greeted, his smile turning into a taunting smirk. He grabbed the ingredients he needed for a sandwich he would be making. "What're you reading?"
"The book Auntie May mailed me," Cyra answered with enthusiasm. "Uncle Al was teaching Jin about alkahestry the last time we're in Xing. I asked him too but he said I have to learn about the Dragon's Pulse first."
"Wasn't Grandpa Van the one who invented it?"
"Yup," Cyra nodded before turning a page over. "More reasons to learn it."
"Cool. Can you demonstrate something for me?"
"Yes, I can try but—"
"Terrible two, you're not gonna do any alchemy-related stuff inside our house!" Winry scolded, throwing the knife down the counter where it got stuck. "Understand?"
Theo and Cyra shared a grim look before gulping in fear. He can't blame their mother. The last time Cyra activated an array controlling the oxygen levels and hydrogen, there was a huge explosion inside their house. Every breakable thing in the living room was broken, including their mother's prized vase. As if their mother's wrath was not enough, their father reprimanded them after he came back home.
"Sorry, Mom." Theo and Cyra robotically apologized at the same time.
"Seriously, what am I gonna do with you guys?"
"Make us the best dinner any kids can ask for?" Theo requested with a lopsided grin on his face.
"I'm making a chicken casserole. It's the best, I hope." Winry said, dropping down the angry look. She moved on chopping the celery before speaking again. "How was school today?"
"It went great. We got to create a volcano as a group project." Cyra happily explained.
"The one made from baking soda? Yeah, I did that last year, too. Turned out to be a disaster because it exploded all over the classroom." Theo recalled.
"That's because you're dumb."
Theo glared at her.
"Cyra," Winry called out again.
"Sorry," Cyra apologized again sheepishly. With a shrug, she continued. "The explosion was cool to look at but the smell was horrendous. I don't think I'll attempt anything like that again."
"What about you, Theo?" Winry turned his attention to her eldest.
"Can I skip a grade next year?" Theo straight out asked.
He has been thinking about it since last year. He was bored out of his mind solving questions about how photosynthesis works and naming parts of the human body. Theo already knew it all before the age of five. The teachers couldn't keep him interested in lessons anymore. He had already balanced the pros and cons and concluded that grade skipping was the best for him. He has a presentation ready if his parents do not agree to his terms.
"They let me take a test to measure my intelligence. They said that I could be placed in high school, ninth grade to be exact. They wanna talk to you but I told them I'll be the one to tell you about it."
Winry blinked before nodding her head. "Sure."
"I promise I'll be—" Theo halted and looked at his mother with wide eyes. "Wait, really!? You're accepting it? Just like that?"
Winry let out a chuckle. "What's up with you Elric boys not being able to sit still, hmm? You're too much like your father at that age."
"The apple doesn't fall far from the tree, I guess." Theo beamed.
"Can I do that, too?" Cyra asked, looking at her mother with her blue eyes wide open with hopefulness.
"You can, sweetie. But let's see how your brother fares first." Winry replied. She reached for her blonde hair and started ruffling it affectionately.
"I mean if you can handle it. Why would we say no to that?"
In just a millisecond, Theo's eyes turned to the source of the familiar manly voice. The sandwich on his mouth dropped but that was the least of his concern. Theo examined him, taking in his appearance that didn't change at all.
His father was leaning in the doorframe, arms crossed over his chest. He gave them a crooked grin, showing the dimples in his left cheeks. He was wearing his usual long brown trench coat that was unbuttoned, a white long sleeve on the inside. His golden hair was tied in a high ponytail. The only thing different about him was the facial hair sticking out of his chin. Other than that, he looked exactly like he did several months ago when he left.
"What? Too surprised to greet me?" Edward asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Daddy!" Cyra reacted first.
Theo watched as Cyra threw her book down immediately and ran towards their father. Edward was laughing as he crouched down, catching his youngest in his wide-open arms. Cyra buried herself in his shoulders, hugging him tightly. Edward lifted her with ease and sprung her as she laughed merrily. As she was put back down, Cyra landed a sloppy kiss on his cheeks.
"Welcome home!" Cyra greeted widely, showing him a toothy grin.
"I'm back," Edward said, nodding. He stood up and eyed his wife first then his son. "Theo? You're not too old for a hug, are ya?"
Theo's surprised expression was quickly turned into a huff. He got out of his seat and went over to his father. Unlike his energetic sister, his movements were more mellow like a gentle wind. He saw how his father's grin was turned into a pleasant smile. Theo embraced him, allowing the warmth he gave to overdrive his senses. A calm feeling washed over and relaxed his body. Mind at peace, Theo cherished the moment he had long waited for.
The smallest hint of his subtle cologne hit Theo's nose. The aroma was comforting like a newly washed blanket that came out of the dryer. An intense smell of an earthy yet fresh scent with a blend of heavier cedarwood fragrance. His father was here now. After months of being away, he was home, holding him between his arms. He smelled like home.
"Miss me, kiddo?" Edward chuckled a little as he slowly rubbed his back softly.
Theo nodded with a smile, breaking away from his grasp.
"I didn't know you're gonna be back so soon. I thought you're due next week." Winry bubbled as she ventured over to her husband.
"Got an early ticket. I grabbed the opportunity and surprised you guys." Edward conversed, bending over and kissing her on the lips.
"PDA police! PDA police!" Cyra chanted, running around the kitchen.
"Oh, don't be such a child, Cyra," Theo rolled his eyes at her.
Cyra halted and glared. Pointing at her brother, she yelled. "Dad! Theo's calling me names!"
"Now, your father just got back. Try to get along." Winry reminded them, sighing heavily. "Dinner's gonna be ready in thirty minutes."
"Sure," Ed affirmed and turned his attention to their children. "Wanna hear stories before we eat?"
Theo and Cyra nodded. They get onto their seats before tuning in onto what their father has for them at that moment.
Theo can't sleep that night.
He squirmed on his bed, turning left and right trying to find the best position and settle for a slumber. It failed miserably as sleep refused to come and take him. He breathed in and out, trying to calm his racing thoughts. His body was more than ready but his mind was another issue. Who knew that falling asleep was this hard.
Not taking it any longer, Theo launched himself up and sat on the side of his bed. His feet reached up for the sandals. Opening the lamp on his bedside, he rubbed his eyes as it adjusted to the bright light. He suppressed a yawn from escaping his lips. Standing up, he stretched his arms wide.
He left his bedroom and noticed that the lights on Cyra's bedroom were all out. Seeing that her door was ajar, he peered inside and saw his little sister sleeping comfortably. Cyra was clinging to the teddy bear their father had given her that night. Closing her bedroom door, he continued his way through the hallway. Their parents' bedroom was located on the other side but Theo quickly noticed that no one was there. He continued venturing downstairs, trying to find his parents.
He stepped inside his mother's workshop where his Mom was still working so late. He scanned the automail she was working on. It looked like the new model she released just last week. A more durable and featherweight piece that was pricey than normal ones. He knocked lightly on the door, trying not to startle her.
"Theo?" Winry called out, putting aside her work. "What are you doing so late?"
"That's my question, Mom. Why are you still working?"
"This piece is due tomorrow afternoon. I have to work overtime."
"Can't Mr. Garfiel take care of that?"
Winry shook her head exasperatedly, "He already has enough projects on his hands. Now, answer my question, young man. Why are you still up?"
"I can't sleep," Theo answered truthfully, shrugging. "It's the weekend. Lemme just stay up for a while, pretty please?"
"I can't entertain you right now. I have work to do." Winry heaved a sigh. She turned and made eye contact with him. "Your father's on the rooftop. You ought to spend time with him while he's home."
"Why?"
"What do you mean by 'why?" Winry blurted out in shock. She raised her eyebrows and had a questioning look on her face. "Because he is your father and you're his son?"
"But we already talked during dinner." Theo scowled, hands in his pocket as he tiptoed up and down.
"I mean, spend some time alone with him. Maybe talking will help you ease your mind off some things? He may not look like it but your father's a great listener."
"All right," Theo agreed, still reluctant. But he knew that his mother's work was more important. He did not want to be a bother. The faster he's out here, the faster she'll be able to finish. "Good night, Mom."
"Good night, Theo."
He shut the door close. Letting out a deep breath, Theo went back upstairs. The way to the rooftop is located on the left end of the hallway. It was dark but thanks to the shining moonlight, he was able to traverse and find the staircase. He was careful with every step, not wanting to slip down and break a bone.
Quietly opening the sliding glass door, Theo surveyed the surroundings. Their rooftop deck was a nice place to hang out every once in a while. His mother has a small garden in the corner where an abundance of plants grew, adding to the calming ambiance. There was a lit-up fire pit in the middle providing warmth in the cold night. Next to it was a settee where his father was seated.
Theo stared at his father who was unaware that he was there. He had a shot glass in hand, filled with unknown booze. His eyes were close, body inclined to the soft backrest. Theo cannot remember the last time he saw him so relax. His father was always on the go, never settling down in one place, busy seeking out adventures the world has to offer. But he always had that look of tiredness that never went away.
"Dad…?" Theo called out, approaching him.
Edward jerked up, almost spilling the booze on his hands. He put the glass down and rubbed his heavy eyelids. "Theo? You're not sleeping yet?"
"Can I talk to you?" He asked, sitting a few centimeters away from him.
"Of course, my son doesn't need an appointment."
Theo rolled his eyes. "That's a horrible joke."
"But it made you roll your eyes," Edward chuckled lightly, rewarding him with a smirk. "What do you wanna talk about?"
"We learned about The Promised Day at school today."
"Oh,"
"And well… It's full of inaccuracies."
"So did you argue with your teacher telling them that what their teaching is wrong?"
"What? Of course not! I'm not like you!"
Edward laughed at Theo's sulking face. Theo has a temper but not as bad as his father. As much as he wanted to do exactly what his father said, he knew when to draw the line. The teachers weren't the ones who wrote the books. They were only teaching the things that the curriculum told them to. And for that, Theo wondered just how many more wrong things were being taught in schools.
Theo heaved a long sigh before continuing. "I just hate it, you know... Hiding the truth from others. They made your legacy seem so small."
"Who are you calling sma—" Edward halted, realizing his mistake. "Sorry, force of habit."
Theo just rolled his eyes at him again. He knew about his short complex but didn't think it was that bad.
"Theo, I'm not in it for the glory or recognition. I did those things because it's the right thing to do." Edward paused, grabbing the glass and sipping a little. "And as for the half-truths, it was to prevent others from seeking the Philosopher's Stone. It already did enough damage."
"But you and the Fuhrer are alchemists. Alchemists always seek the truth. If alchemists are for the people, why would you lie to them?" Theo hissed, maintaining eye contact with him. He bit the inner of his lips as he waited for his reply.
"Because if the truth comes out, history will only repeat itself. Xerxes is the proof of that."
Theo backed down as he stared at his father's face. He knew that look by now. The same look whenever he did something uncalled for. Those cold golden eyes looking down on him. Gulping, Theo bowed down his head in defeat. He quivered, not expecting their conversation to turn this way. He didn't mean to yell but his emotions overdrive his senses.
Theo knew about Xerxes and its ultimate fate. Their father made sure that he and Cyra at least knew about one-fourth of their true heritage. He knew about how a once prosperous country in the desert perished overnight because of humanity's natural fear of death. The Philosopher's Stone is a product of alchemy that will only result in more destruction and more death.
"Sorry, Dad..." Theo apologized in a low tone, bowing his head. "I don't know what came over me…"
"Hey, kiddo. It's fine." Edward flashed a smile, trying to ease the tension. He reached for his son's back and patted it gently. "It's nice to know that you're not ignorant. That's a great attitude for an alchemist."
"Cyra's the alchemist. I prefer machinery and tools." Theo stated calmly.
"A-ha," Edward raised an eyebrow. "So you're telling me I didn't teach you how to transmute stone into gold?"
"I know how but that's illegal!"
Theo smiled, hearing Edward's hysteric laugh. They settle down in comfortable silence. The only thing heard was the crackling of the fire in the fire pit. He looked up at the night sky. Since Rush Valley was an industrial town, the smoke from the factories made it harder to see the stars. He still enjoyed the view, a pattern of small shining dots that was ever-changing and inspired him to follow his dreams.
"Dad?"
"Hmm?"
"When I was your age, you and Uncle Al performed human transmutation, right?"
Edward groaned, trying to stop the memories from returning. "Yes, why?"
"I don't think Cyra and I can do something of that grandeur," Theo mumbled.
"I'm sure hoping you guys won't," Edward said sternly.
"I feel like I'm nothing compared to you…"
Edward's eyes widened after hearing those words. "Theo, what are you—?"
"Please listen to me first," Theo stopped him with a pleading voice.
Edward was silent before nodding slightly, face showing a frown. Theo breathed, trying to calm himself. It was now or never, he told himself. He realized what has been bothering him since earlier that day. The reason why he couldn't sleep led him to find his father. He needed to let it out now before it got too big to handle.
"Earlier when Ms. Clifford started talking about you, all eyes were on me." Theo started, looking away from his father's concerned gaze. "At that moment, I feel like I'm not Theo who's just a simple country boy. I'm Theo, son of Edward Elric, the Hero of the People. And I don't want that. I want others to see me as me and not as the son of a famous person."
Theo looked up and checked his father's expression. He can't properly read his eyes. Those golden orbs were a mixture of emotions that couldn't settle for one.
"I-I'm not saying that I'm not proud to be your son," Theo corrected hastily, stuttering. He started scratching his scalp in frustration. "I am. It's just that..."
"You want to be your own person." Edward finished sympathetically.
Theo grew up hearing stories. Stories about how a small teenage boy who liked to wear red and could perform alchemy helped the citizens of Amestris. Since he was rarely home, those stories were a way for a son to connect to his father. Whether it's from the current Fuhrer, Miss Riza, Mister Armstrong, the Curtises, Uncle Al, or his Mom, they all have different stories and viewpoints over his father's life.
But one thing was clear, Theo admired him. Edward Elric would always hand back more when given something. He was a rare soul, compassionate and helpful. He always follows his ideals and would always keep on moving forward. He never gave up on his dreams despite the hundreds of obstacles on his way. And for those reasons, he was more than just Theo's father, he was also his hero.
"What should I do to be heroic like you?" Theo questioned, his golden eyes looking up at him with a hopeful gaze, begging for an answer.
Edward snorted, "Don't try to be a hero, or a sage, or a warrior. Just exist for a while and be decent. That's heroism enough."
Theo's eyes widened, mouth dropping open. All the anxiety, questions, and self-doubt vanished in an instant. He looked up at his father again, a new expression plastered on his face.
Theo laughed out loud, his hands reaching for his stomach. Edward raised his eyebrows again, surprised by his sudden change of attitude.
"Thank you for the talk, Dad. Let's do this again sometime." Theo grinned widely.
"No, thank you. For trusting and confiding your feelings with me." Edward said. "It's my turn to ask you something."
"What is it?"
"Are you proud of me? As a father?"
"Of course, not every dad has saved the country more than once."
"I don't mean that," Edward said, shaking his head. He slowly rubbed his aching temples. "I mean, I always leave you guys for months and act as if it's just a normal thing for a father to do. You don't hate me for that?"
"No," Theo quickly replied with a small shrug. "Believe me, Dad. Cyra and I understand."
Edward didn't reply, he finished his glass before putting another one again. Theo allowed his mind to wander. To really think about it, any child would be angry at being left behind by their parents. Theo guessed the reason why he and Cyra were not is that they inherited their father's adventurous spirit. Rush Valley seems small compared to the world and someday, he and Cyra wanted to travel on their own.
"You know, that's my biggest fear..." Edward said, barely a whisper.
"Your kids hating you?" Theo pondered, "You can be a jerk sometimes but we still love you. That's what's family for, right?"
Edward let out a lone humorless chuckle. "When I was younger, I kept telling myself that I won't be like my old man. Look at me now, traveling all over the world leaving home for months on end." Edward breathed out a heavy sigh, looking up in the night sky. His son was still too young to deal with his issues. He needed to focus more on his. "Sorry 'bout this. It's the alcohol speaking."
"Maybe, you can bring me and Cyra next time? School break's just around the corner."
"I believe that's not an option anymore."
"Why?"
"Central University contacted me last month, asking if I'd like to teach advanced alchemy class. I'm contemplating about it on the way home and I'll call them tomorrow to agree."
"You're gonna be a professor?" Theo gawked, body twitching in a jolt as he stared at him straightly.
"Yes, and maybe I can pull some strings and allow you to be a sit-in in my class or any other class you want. You're bored in elementary school, right?"
"Do we have to move to Central? But Mom's work is here and Cyra and I have friends here and—"
"Woah, calm down, kiddo," Edward interrupted, raising his hand. "I haven't talked about it with Mom. You're the first one to know. I don't think she's gonna agree to move but I can still go home every weekend."
"That's great news, Dad!" Theo's eyes shimmered in excitement. "We'll get to spend more time together."
Edward smiled and patted his head. "Yeah, I'll try to make it up with you guys."
Edward maneuvered Theo's head towards his broad shoulder. Theo blinked, comprehending the unexpected movement. He turned his head sideways, nestling comfortably. And once he found the perfect position, Edward reached for his aurelian hair, the same color as his. Theo enjoyed the motion of his father's hands massaging his scalp. He closed his eyes, breathing in his nostalgic scent. In a few seconds, his breathing evened, body giving in to relaxation. He felt protected and loved, a satisfied smile plastered on his face as he settled comfortably.
"Love you, Dad..." Theo mumbled, groggily.
"Love you, too, kiddo," Edward said lovingly, planting a kiss on his son's forehead. "More than you'll ever know."
For the world, Edward Elric was known as the Fullmetal Alchemist. The youngest State Alchemist in history. The kind hero who saved the country and helped its citizens. The researcher that's always coming up with mind-blowing alchemic theories despite not being able to perform them.
But for Theo, he is simply his Dad.
And he's proud to be his son.
A/N: New fandom, new fanfiction, new father and son fluff. Happy October 3rd everyone!
Theo is a name derived from an Ancient Greek word theos which means 'God'. Cyra (pronounced sy-ra) is a name of Persian origin that means 'sun or throne'. I always love researching name etymologies. And I don't like the idea of characters naming their kids after dead loved ones.
For Edward's quote about heroism, I got it from a Youtuber named exurb1a in his video and then we'll be okay. I highly recommend his videos to everyone interested in philosophy.