Hello y'all!
Here you go with the third and last part of "Her story through her hair"! That part is long, but not as much as the second one.
The time span is wider than in the other parts: from 1915 - immediately after Promised Day - to 1924
I have so many other current projects that I couldn't take the time I wanted on this one. It was long, but it's done!
I wanted a meaningful name for Roy and Riza's daughter, and I think that Irene is perfect. It means "peace" in Greek. That name holds so much in it, but we all know that Riza and Roy won't pressure their daughter to be like people would expect her to be.
I hope you've had a good time reading this fic!
Part III: Military years
April 1915
The atmosphere was busy under the medical tent. Nurses and doctors walked quickly, examining each wounded, providing emergency care with professionalism. Riza was lying on a camp bed, a needle in her arm for the IV. A blood transfusion and a snack had been welcomed, and her head wasn't spinning anymore. Now, she was thinking about one thing. Where was her Colonel? When Edward had reappeared with his brother, all had gone so fast. Riza remembered Mustang taking off his coat and giving it to one of the chimeras who asked for something to cover Alphonse, then the medical team arrived, the tents were installed and Roy was brought somewhere else.
Riza stopped a nurse who passed next to her, her arms full of clean bandages. "Where's Colonel Mustang?"
The nurse glanced at her and replied in a severe tone. "I don't know where he is, but in your current state I advise you not to move. You've lost too much blood, and even if they're bandaged, your wounds can reopen if you fuss. Stay calm, I'm sure he'll come back to you."
Perhaps he would come back, but in what state? He'd lost his eyesight, his hands were punctured and he was surrounded by strangers. He wouldn't be the first to be unsettled by this kind of situation, but she felt like this time was different. He hadn't expected his blindness, and was losing his bearings. Riza sighed, disheartened. He was her focal point, her lighthouse, but she knew she was his.
Ten minutes later, she saw Dr. Knox entering the tent. "Here you are!" He said as he walked to Riza. "Mustang has asked after you, and I've struggled to find your tent. There are too many of them."
"How is he?" She asked as they walked out. The nurse had allowed her to leave, under the condition that she took a blanket and kept her IV. She leaned a lot on the stand, suddenly conscious of her exhaustion.
"He looked gloomy, I'd say. But I can't tell what he's thinking about," the doctor grumbled. "I left him with Marcoh."
His blindness must be such a burden to him. Riza knew how much he hated to feel useless, unable to do anything, and being blind seemed to be almost worse than being wet. They entered a tent, no different from the others. Behind a screen, hidden from other injured people, they found the Colonel and Marcoh. The former was sitting on a bed, his hands bandaged, frowning, and the latter was looking at him, silent, his arms crossed. Mustang raised his head as he heard them. "Lieutenant, is that you?"
Riza was about to nod, as usual, but she realized with a twitch of her stomach that their shared glances were impossible now. She sat beside him, staying at a decent distance from him. "It's me, Colonel. How are you?"
He turned to her, and even with the void of his eyes, she could see his lips turn slightly up. "Shouldn't I ask the same? After all, I haven't been through everything you've lived through because of me." His faint smile disappeared, and he seemed to look for her with his blind eyes.
"I'm not the one who's been forced to open the Gate, but I can care about you, sir," Riza said firmly. "How will you do? Your sight…"
"I'll get it back."
Riza, taken aback, couldn't add a word.
"Doctor Marcoh offered to give a philosopher stone if I promised him to rebuild Ishval."
Riza put her hands on her knees, squeezing them until her knuckles turned white. She turned to the doctor, who nodded. "I think that the Ishvals who gave their life for this stone can be part of the rebuilding of their land, their culture and their religion. And your commanding officer's healing is part of that."
"As well as Havoc's."
That was a good surprise, and Riza was happy he'd thought about his former subordinate. "I leave you behind so you can catch up," he'd told him when he'd left the hospital. It was one of the best means to get Havoc to move forward again. Moreover, his social skills would be an advantage when they would be in Ishval.
"I'm fine with that," she said soberly.
Roy turned to her, and she could read his surprise on his face.
"Is that all you want to say?" Knox asked.
Riza repressed her half-amused-half-annoyed grin. "The Colonel wishes that anyone who wants to follow him can do it. Havoc is one of these people, and the sooner he'd have gotten his legs back, the sooner he'll be able to reintegrate the military to support the Colonel. Tell me, why should I contest his decision?"
Roy gave her a grateful smile, and Knox and Marcoh gave up. "Alright then," Marcoh said. "Are you ready to assume that responsibility?"
"I've been ready since the end of the war. If thanks to that stone you can find some peace after all you've done during the extermination, I would be glad."
"I'm relieved," the doctor replied with a smile.
They planned the steps for the next few days. The Colonel and Lieutenant would be sent to the hospital for their treatment and recovery, and Havoc would join them as soon as he could. If nothing prevented it, both operations would be on the same day.
"One more thing!" Roy said as both doctors were about to leave. "Hawkeye will stay with me for my transmutation." He was adamant, and Knox opened his mouth to protest, frowned and replied.
"You're a strong head, Mustang! Alright, you will be present, Lieutenant." And he left, following Marcoh.
Roy's hand landed on Riza's arm. He fumbled for a few seconds before he found her hand on her knee. He entwined his fingers with hers and he immediately seemed more relaxed.
"I thought I'd lost you today. Several times, actually," he whispered.
"My orders were clear enough," she replied sweetly.
"I know, but I lived the worst time of my life when I saw you in that pool of your - your own blood…" He almost sobbed and Riza's heart clenched in her chest. She lifted her free hand and caressed his cheek.
"Roy. I'm here, I'm alive, and we've won." He nodded. "Please, don't ever force me to do something like I did. Don't go where I can't follow."
"I'm so sorry. I've been blinded by rage and forgot the order I'd given you the day you stepped under my command. Will you forgive me?"
"I did forgive you. When you pulled out your glove to lower my gun. Roy, I don't want to do these sandwiches ever again."
Without any warning, Roy pulled her to him and hugged her. A bit stiff at first, Riza relaxed in his embrace. He nestled his head in the crook of her unscathed shoulder, and she shivered under the warmth of his breath on her skin.
"I promise you these sandwiches will never taste like sadness. Ever again."
Riza smiled and played with Roy's hair, enjoying their propiquinity. She didn't know if they could continue like that once he would have recovered his eyesight, so she intended to seize the present and savor any time she could spend with him. The walls had fallen today, but if nothing changed in the military, they would have to be rebuilt, so Roy and her would live as if nothing had happened. That thought itself gave her goosebumps, Riza admitted. Everyone knew they shared a bond, even if they didn't know to what extent. What were the benefits of keeping their relationship hidden, if it was only to avoid court-martial and threaten their advancement in the military?
Havoc's return to Central was moving. After months of separation, the team of Colonel Roy Mustang was whole again, and their reunion joyfull. Roy thanked Havoc for his material participation for the Promised Day.
"You'll have to thank the old Grumma, Rebecca Catalina and Maria Roy, then. The General and Catalina were the first to come up with the idea, and I found Xingese suppliers only thanks to Ross and Armstrong's parents." Then Havoc glared at the team's members and said, deadpanned: "Will anyone explain why I had to come here?"
"We've got something to give you back your legs."
Roy's declaration sounded like a bomb. Jean's jaw dropped. "Are you kidding me?"
"Do I look kidding?" The Colonel asked, serious.
The former Second Lieutenant's surprise made Riza smile. That was the most unexpected thing he would have ever heard.
"And how will you do it?"
"Marcoh offered to use the philosopher stone to get my eyesight back and rebuild Ishval. I accepted with the condition that he uses it to heal you. That's what will happen tomorrow, so you can follow me again if you want to."
Once more Havoc stayed silent. Riza knew how mindful Roy could be with his subordinates, and how Jean's injury had affected him. The fact that Roy wanted him to get all his abilities back wasn't surprising. And it wasn't only because he wanted Havoc to join him in his climbing of the ranks. He wanted him to walk again.
The next day, Marcoh and Knox came into Roy and Riza's hospital room to tell them that it was time. In one other room, they found the rest of the team. Havoc was laying on his stomach on a bed, bare chested. He greeted his former superiors. "I think you'll have to deal with me again, chief!"
"I'll be happy about it, believe me!"
Roy's smile was heartening and Riza smiled at him tenderly, knowing that he couldn't see her. However, Havoc didn't miss her affectionate glance. "Lieutenant, I'm certain you'll be the happiest when the Colonel regains his eyesight!" He turned to Marcoh. "Hurry up and heal me, so those two could see each other again!"
Riza felt heat creeping on her cheeks as Roy took her elbow. He'd managed to find her arm in spite of his blindness, thanks to their closeness. He grinned at Havoc. "That's our matter to take care of, Havoc. Just think about healing and getting back on your feet."
"If you're done, you could let me work," Marcoh cut both men's banter. He approached the bed and took the stone out of his pocket. He put it on Havoc's back, focusing. Flashes of light appeared on his skin, lighting the room. The atmosphere was strange, almost disturbing. Riza was standing next to the window, Roy beside her. Jean's face tensed, and she took Roy's hand as suddenly worrying about her friend. Their fingers entwined and she leaned on the rock he was to her. That gave her some confidence and she calmed down.
Soon after, the light was back to normal and the transmutation stopped. Havoc stayed still on the bed and Marcoh positioned next to his feet. He took one and moved it carefully. "Are you feeling something?"
"That's so odd… I'm feeling… warmth," Havoc said. "The bedcover is soft, and your hands are rough."
"And this?"
Jean shouted. "Did you just pinched me?" Riza giggled and Breda and Fuery let out a laugh.
Marcoh tested his mobility, asking him to go along the moves of his legs as far as possible while the doctor manipulated them. "It'll take some time and hard work, but you'll have some help, and in a few months you'll be able to outrun criminals. Alphonse Elric is in the same situation as you and I think you can work together for your rehabilitation."
"Is Alphonse still at the hospital?" Roy sounded surprised. He was still holding Riza's hand and she realized they'd played with the rules for the last few days, more than they should have. How would their relationship evolve once he had his sight back?
Riza put her questions on the back of her mind and looked at Havoc, who was trying to sit on the bed. He winced when he moved his right leg with effort, supported by the doctor.
"He must readapt to have a body made of flesh," Marcoh eventually answered Roy's question. "He's not made of metal anymore, and must learn to move his muscles, feel things, know pain to learn his tolerance to it, and many other things…"
Roy nodded, he understood what Marcoh meant. Like Havoc, Alphonse would have to follow a difficult path before getting back all his abilities.
A few hours later, it was Roy's turn to be brought into another room of the hospital with Riza. The whole team had cheered them before Riza led Roy through the hallways she knew almost by heart now.
On the floor of the room, Riza saw the same circle that Edward had drawn for his last transmutation when he'd brought Alphonse back. Marcoh was waiting with Dr. Knox and told Riza to place Roy in the middle of the human transmutation array. She obeyed and soon after he was waiting for the next step. Riza put a reassuring hand on his shoulder, trying to calm both his nervosity and hers, and walked out of the circle.
Marcoh gave him the stone. Red flashes appeared, then black hands that devoured Roy. Riza's heart clenched in her chest when she saw him disappear. The last time she'd been reunited with him after a transmutation, he was blind, unable to find his way without aid and furious against himself because he couldn't resist against Bradley.
That time would be different, she reasoned. He had the stone after all. He appeared and fell on his knees after two minutes that had been among the longuest of her life. When she saw him, she ran and knelt in front of him. "Colonel, are you okay?"
Roy straightened and raised his head to her. The first thing she saw was his eyes, open, lively and black. It was his eyes, in which she got lost so easily, that she'd missed so badly for the last few days. She smiled and an uncontrollable sob escaped her throat. All wasn't over, but things were getting better for him. He wouldn't be threatened by a discharge from the military. Roy smiled back at her, his eyes on hers and her stomach somersaulted when he sent her all his feelings. Joy, worry, relief, hope, admiration, and love so intense she was immediately overwhelmed by her own feelings. Her tears flowed on her cheeks but her smile didn't disappear.
"I love you," he declared.
The place they were in didn't matter, nor the doctors in the room or the team that was waiting for them outside, the city that was being rebuilt, the military, the rules, or their projects nothing mattered. All of it was swept away and Riza took Roy's lapel to pull him to her. She pressed her lips on his and answered to his declaration in the best way she could find. Through her kiss, she told him everything she couldn't for the last months. Roy was at first surprised by her initiative, but settled his hands at her hips to keep her close to him. He kissed back and deepened it and a nice warmth grew in Riza's belly. She parted her lips and let Roy's tongue enter and play with hers. She tasted hospital, fire and tears on his tongue. She realized it was hers and they'd reached her lips.
They pulled away, breathless, with swollen lips, flushed cheeks and shining eyes.
"I'll love you forever," Riza whispered.
The boldness of her own words shocked her. She meant all of them, and she'd said all from the bottom of her heart. It was the first time they told their feelings out loud. Although she felt like she was used to expressing them by gestures, she knew each time they would tell them it would be like the first time. Each time she would say "I love you" to Roy, she would choose him again and again as the only man she would love in her life.
They apologized to Marcoh and Knox, a bit embarrassed but not shameful. However they ignored which consequences their kiss would have.
Marcoh examined Roy's eyes and advised him to go see an oculist to check the healing of his sight. He'd been blind for a few days only, but some consequences could appear. He officially gave him the philosopher's stone in exchange for the formal promise to rebuild Ishval.
Then Roy received his team who congratulated him. Falman jumped on the opportunity to tell him he would go back to Biggs to serve under Armstrong's orders. She'd - finally - seen his various talents, including his huge memory, and wanted to use them. The Second-lieutenant added that he would climb the ranks faster than if he stayed among the Colonel's subordinates. Roy should have felt offended, since he replied that Falman should climb faster than Breda and tell him about the General's projects.
"After all, intel is your passion, Second-lieutenant Falman," he said with a knowing smile.
In the early hours of the evening, an unannounced guest arrived at the door of the room they shared. General Grumman entered without knocking and Riza and Roy, who were studying one of the books about Ishval that Breda and Falman had left for them, rose quickly to greet him. The old man ordered them to sit as he took place on a vacant chair.
"I know I'm in my uniform, but my visit isn't official," he began. "I've come to inform you of the latest decisions of the military staff. This board is composed of all Generals left after those loyal to Bradley have been arrested. They have decided to appoint me as the new Fuhrer."
"Congratulations on this promotion!" Roy exclaimed.
That was the rank he wanted, but he was able to congratulate Grumman without resentment, Riza noticed proudly. She congratulated her grandfather, who turned to her, sweeping aside his role of General. "I've learned you've been badly hurt, I'm relieved to see you're well."
"The medical staff here is skillful, and I've been helped by a young xingese girl who stopped the bleeding."
"She's the girl you've seen at East City station before we met a few months ago," Roy said. "Her alkahestry saved Riza."
"I must thank her then. Do you know where I can find her?"
"She's left for her country, she has some succession matters to settle," Riza replied. "She's a xingese princess, but I got the feeling she'll be back soon." Roy raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "There's a blond boy she likes in Amestris," she affirmed, knowing that the conversation would run into Grumman's favorite subject.
The General indeed jumped on the opportunity. "What are the news about you two?" Even if it was expected from him, Riza tensed lightly. She started when Roy took her hand, his arm extended between their beds. She relaxed as she saw his smile.
He turned to Grumman, looking suddenly serious. "I realized something during the Promised Day," he said. "I already knew that Riza was the only woman I wanted in my life, but now I know that I want to climb the ranks with her by my side, not behind me watching my back."
Roy looked back at Riza, and the feelings she could read in his black eyes were exhilarating. Oh, how much she'd missed that expressiveness! She forgot to breathe for a moment as she waited for his next words.
"The laws of the military forbid us to live this, and I'm still not sure I deserve it, but since you're able to do it now, and because you've supported us since the beginning, isn't it time to change some things? I'm not asking only for us, but for all the people of this army who're living their love secretly, for all who were discharged because of that love too. Could you allow a change in mindsets so love won't be a mistake but something that must be protected?"
Grumman smiled, and Riza knew she didn't have to worry. "I don't guarantee it'll be this new government's priority, but I've always intended to change the law since I know your bond. As soon as my proposition will be scheduled, you'll be notified.
Riza rose and kissed the forehead of the next Fuhrer. "Thank you grandfather."
The old man coughed to hide his embarrassment. "Even if I want you to be the first, I think it'll be best if you wait for others to marry before you, or I'll be pointed to for favoritism. No one ignores that I estime Mustang."
"But they don't know Riza is your granddaughter," Roy said. "And we wouldn't want to overshadow others, would we?" He added with a wink for Riza.
Riza blushed like a teenage girl. What was he insinuating? She couldn't wonder any longer, since Grumman rose. "On this good news I must leave you. You won't stay longer in the hospital, will you?"
"I've got a few more days to monitor my condition," Riza replied. "And Col- Roy," she corrected, "can leave tomorrow since his hands are getting better and his eyesight is back."
Her grandfather left the room after a salute. Riza turned to Roy and found him with a knee on the floor in front of her, a sheepish smile on his face. Her heart raged in her chest as she approached him. "Roy…"
"Riza, I know I haven't a lot to give you and I don't even have a ring since I've never imagined I would be brave enough to propose to you in a hospital room. But if you wish so and when we'll be free, I'd like you to make real one of my deepest desires. I want to walk the same path as you, toward the same goal, wherever it'd lead us. I've got only me to give you, and a future that will likely be difficult, but I love you and I want to stay by your side forever." Roy took her hand and gently squeezed it. "Will you marry me?"
Riza knelt in front of him and placed her other hand on his cheek. Tears emerged from his eyes without any warning. Riza's eyes widened.
"I'm not even sure I deserve you… I'm not even sure we'll be allowed to be happy because of what we've done… But I know that I can't afford to have you away from me." He blinked and a tear escaped his eye, to be caught by Riza's thumb. She hadn't seen him cry so often and her heart clenched at the thought.
"In that case, what can I think? Am I allowed to accept your proposal? Must my actions prevent me from being happy, even for some time?" Her tone hardened. "Roy, I want to be happy, I want to mend my faults, and I want to do it by your side." She softened and added with a loving smile and wet eyes: "Of course I'll marry you, my naive, idealistic and endearing idiot!" She was suddenly pulled toward him. Roy kissed her passionately. She replied and felt his smile and the salted taste of his tears on her lips.
Since the evening wasn't finished, they decided to go looking for the Elrics brothers who were in the same hospital. They were certainly in the same department as Havoc so Alphonse could follow his rehab. Their doctor allowed them to go there, and as they approached the room, Riza felt Roy stiffen. She took his arm and tried to calm him. She didn't ask any questions, she was sure he would tell her himself about his worries. "It's been a few days already, and we haven't seen them once. Do you think they will be angry?"
"Ed would rant because he likes that, but I'm certain they knew we were as busy as them with care and monitoring," Riza argued.
Roy took her arm and settled it more comfortably on his, bringing her even closer. "You know it's a military hospital, and we can be seen?" She asked in a slightly mocking tone.
"I'll say I'm still blind, they won't say anything," he replied.
On these last words they arrived in front of the door of the Elrics. Riza knocked and when one of the boys answered they entered. Edward was sitting on his bed and a wide smile spread on his face as he looked at Alphonse eating a sandwich from the hospital, crying.
"How can something so simple be so good?"
"That's because you've never tasted the Lieutenant's!" Roy told him cheerfully.
Alphonse startled, as much surprised by the Colonel's presence than the reaction of his own body. "Colonel! Lieutenant! You've come!"
He put down the rest of his sandwich and began to rise despite Ed's protests. His legs shook a bit and Riza went to help him. He was light, lighter than any fifteen-year-old teenager should be, and she felt his thin arms and prominent bones when she touched him. Alphonse's stay behind the Gate might have been difficult for his body. The boy had a long way before he could easily use his real body and recover his health.
"I'm happy to see you, Colonel! You seem to be well."
"I can tell the same, Alphonse! It's been a while we haven't seen each other, and I can tell you've changed a lot!" Roy said with a bright smile. "I'm happy you've recovered your bodies."
Edward cut him, looking serious. "Marcoh told us about your eyesight and the philosopher stone."
Roy nodded and Riza glanced at him, ready to support what he would say. "I accepted it so it could help mend my faults in Ishval. It won't be worth the damage I've done, but if I'm able to do something, to make people happy, I'll be too."
"And your goal to be the Fuhrer?"
"That'll wait for the best time. But I know Grumman will leave some work to me to change Amestris into a democracy."
"Grumman? He'll take Bradley's place?" Ed was surprised. "Aren't you in a hurry?"
Roy laughed, and Riza answered for him. "It's easier for us to help Ishval if Grumman lets us free than if the Colonel is at the top. Also he can still climb some ranks before reaching the Fuhrer's."
Roy approved Riza's speech. Alphonse pulled away from her support and thanked her. "Ed told me about what had happened to you, Lieutenant, and I'm relieved to see you're better. I hadn't thanked May for what she did, but I won't forget next time I'll see her."
"Alphonse, there's no need for you to thank her for me. I'll be able to do it myself," Riza protested. "Well, I'll try to do it before the Colonel, since he looks eager to do it too." She glanced at Roy, who looked at her sheepishly. "By the way, when will you go back to Resembool?" She asked.
Ed seemed embarrassed and Al smiled. "As soon as Al has regained enough fine motor skills. I don't know yet when it'll be."
"Tell us beforehand so we'll see you that day," Roy asked.
Edward assured them they would tell them. He seemed impatient Alphonse regained his strength and was not in a hurry to go back to his hometown. Riza knew that a blond mechanic wasn't innocent in that matter. But she wouldn't say that out loud in front of Roy. He would tease the boy as soon as he could. Instead she thanked Ed and wished him a good recovery. She knew that if she talked about Winry, he would jump on the spot to speak about her relationship with Roy. A few hours after they'd told each other their feelings and after Roy's proposal, Riza didn't know if she could keep a straight face.
And there would be many other opportunities to bring the subject over, like when her grandfather would have abolished that damned anti-frat law.
July 1917
"What's that?" The words stayed in Brigadier General Mustang's throat as Captain Riza Hawkeye stepped out of the small house where she lived in Ishval. At Roy's immediate reaction she couldn't help but smile. He'd waited for her more than usual for a simple reason that explained his surprised and confused look. "Your hair…" he stammered.
After years spent growing her hair and taking care of its lengths, Riza had decided to cut it again. It had been a hard but necessary decision, for several reasons.
The first one was the place where they were. Ishval had never been a kind place and for the last few days Riza had felt like she was always fighting against her hair. Wind tangled it, she'd found sand in it and it was too hot under the blazing sun. When she'd been on the battlefield during the war her hair had never bothered her, neither when she moved from one spot to another nor when she was observing her surroundings from a tower or any high place where she killed any enemy who appeared. To her great relief, that last situation would never happen anymore. She was sure of it since it was their goal while they rebuilt Ishval. But she wanted to have her hair short to avoid one more struggle for the next months.
Keeping the first reason for herself, she cited the second one when she answered Roy's silent question. She walked toward him, deadpan, and he seemed worried for a moment. "Do you prefer my hair long, General?"
Relief took over his concern. "You've got many more options to style long hair for formal or festive occasions, Captain. To be honest, I love you whether your hair is long or short."
Riza knew which occasion he was talking about and the months that were left before it would give some time to her hair to grow again. Grandfather had done an excellent job with the other Generals to change the law and their relationship had been official for a few months now. Her cheeks heated at Roy's declaration. She would never get used to it, and it was a good thing.
But what bothered her for a few weeks now wasn't on her.
"I still don't know why you're asking me that," Roy added.
"Because if you love me even when I'm bald, I prefer when you don't have a moustache."
At last, she'd said it. That monstrosity under Roy's nose haunted her since the day he'd decided to let it grow. Roy glanced at her, dismayed, frowning. Her treason wasn't well received. She'd told nothing yet despite some disapproving glares and had never admitted her disagreement regarding his attempt to grow a moustache.
"So, in order to protest against what the others call 'the aberration' you cut your hair?"
Riza nodded, silent. Some people from their neighborhood were passing near them, staring at them. For one year and a half, Ishvals and soldiers lived side by side. There had been tensions at the beginning of the rebuilding, but the former had eventually accepted the presence of the latter. They were indifferent or they were involving them in their lives. The battalion sent by the Eastern command center had done a great job since the soldiers had settled their camp near the ruins. Stone by stone the buildings had been raised and had become lively again as people came back, encouraged by Miles, Scar and some other Ishvals who had helped during the Promised Day. They had sent many messages through the radio to do that. Along with the houses, other buildings had found a place. The temple had been renovated and Ishvalla's cult with it. In the market people could find products from Ishval, Amestris and even Xing, and a new irrigation system collected groundwater to water wheat and cotton crops. If things evolved well, the region could become a serious concurrent to the Southern region with steady and growing cotton harvests.
Soldiers lived in barracks, but officers had been given small houses near the camp. Roy and Riza had their own not so far from the other. He waited for her each morning so they could walk together and be a normal couple before they put their ranks and imposed formalism for the day. It had been one of the conditions in the changes of the anti-frat laws.
"Is that so ugly?" Roy asked, looking defeated.
"I think there are for now other ways to make you look more mature. Shorter hair slicked back is a good start. You're handsome like that."
A hot flush grew in Riza's chest at the piercing look Roy gave her. She was the one complimenting him but she was embarrassed by his reaction. She realized that if she had to be like that for the next months it would be harder to stay professional at every moment. "That's not because other Fuhrer had a moustache that you must do the same. Still, you've got time to find the best style that would suit you later."
"All right," Roy sighed. "I'll shave it tonight. But your hair… I hope they'll grow enough before our wedding. I'd feel guilty about ruining the photos because of my hair experiments."
That seemed almost too easy, to Riza's surprise. However, her opinion mattered to Roy as much as Roy's opinion mattered to her. She knew she would ask him to go with her to find her wedding gown, contrary to popular belief that wanted the groom couldn't see the bride's dress before the wedding. Anyway, she would have to make it adjusted to the measurements she would be in January, so it was great to have a gown Roy would like whatever she looked like.
"My hair won't be your worry during our wedding," she affirmed. "Moreover, I know that children prefer when their father doesn't have facial hair, because he's softer like that. Elicia complained often about Hughes' stubble."
The third reason could seem silly, but since she'd been faced with the same struggle two mornings in a row she had decided to put an end to it and spare her hair from the splashes of her morning sickness. She wasn't used to illness or hangovers, so throwing up wasn't a skill she'd mastered. After two shampoos and with the arguments of ishvalan climate, she'd made her choice. She wouldn't pretend in front of Roy that it hadn't been a torture to see her blond curls fall at each snip of the cissors, but she wouldn't tell him unless her asked her.
Her hand landed on her belly and she gave Roy a gentle smile. Amestris' youngest General frowned, his eyes widened and his mouth opened into a surprised "oh", then stretched into a bright smile. Riza suddenly left the ground as he took her in his muscular arms, laughing wholeheartedly. Roy's joy was contagious, and Riza soon laughed with him, hanging on his neck. When he put her down on the cobbles of the street he kissed her passionately. When they parted Riza met his loving and thankful eyes. As they stood in the country they were rebuilding she knew that despite all the moments she hadn't felt she was worthy of it, being a mother would only give her more reasons to fight so Roy could change Amestris for the best.
"Thank you," Roy whispered with a happy smile as she returned. Suddenly his face paled and he added, a bit panicked: "Grumman will kill me when he'll learn it."
"Only the five first minutes," Riza replied, amused. "After that he'll be so happy with the prospect of a great-grandchild that he'll forget we haven't waited for the wedding. I'll be there, anyways." She kissed Roy to reassure him.
It worked and for the rest of the day his blissful smile didn't leave him, even as he exchanged about the latest progress of the rebuilding with Ishval leaders. So much for the professionalism, but the infectious joy of the General, his adjutant and his team (who'd been filled in as soon as they'd arrived) did a marvelous job to lighten the working atmosphere that day in Ishval provisional command center.
October 1924
"Irene, stay still for a moment!"
"But Mom, you're pulling my hair!" A high-pitched voice protested. "It's painful!"
Suddenly aware she was insisting too much on her daughter's knots, Riza stopped moving the comb in her black hair. "I'm sorry dear, but today's an important day, and I want you to be the prettiest child."
"I'm already pretty!"
Riza stifled a laugh. Irene spoke a lot and knew she could use her prettiness to get what she wanted. She was six and a half years old and had learned a lot from her father. Sometimes it was difficult for Riza to keep her position firm when both Roy and Irene looked at her with pleading eyes to reach their ends.
She combed Irene's dark strands with her hair, loosening a few stubborn knots and the girl didn't protest. She finished her work with the hairbrush, smoothing some rebellious curls. Usually it was disciplined, but when Riza didn't dry it just after shower, Irene's hair could change into an inextricable jungle that could make the hairstyling process long and difficult.
This morning made no exception, and Riza had battled for long minutes before Irene energetically protested because of the tension on her scalp. But her mother's endeavour had paid, and now Riza could do her hair for good.
"I can assure you that you'll be the prettiest little girl during the ceremony," Riza said. "I count on you to make your father proud."
"You know, Dad is always proud of me," the little girl replied firmly.
Riza didn't doubt that. She'd never imagined Roy could be so fond of his daughter. He knew he'd become like Hughes, even if he talked less about her to the others. However, Riza had often heard him tell her how happy he was to have a daughter like Irene each night since they'd discovered their baby would be a girl. He'd made sure Riza knew how much she made him happy, and these precious moments told Riza how deep his love for her and their daughter was.
"I'm proud of you too, Irene." Riza twisted the girl's hair and gathered it into elaborate strands she braided together. The complex braid would stay in place and be pretty all day, even when Irene would run or jump. She added a blue ribbon matched with her dress and finished the hairdo.
Those moments reminded her of those she'd lived years ago, when life seemed so easy, happy and hopeful. Mom would have been proud of her to see she was keeping the tradition of spending good time between mother and daughter. For years she'd set these memories aside because of the sadness that once exuded from them. Roy's question "Why don't you grow your hair?" had allowed her to realize that despite her mother's death, her memories of her were precious and the happiness she'd lived during her childhood shouldn't be forgotten or tinged with regrets. The best to do was to transmit them, give that joy so future generations would know sweet moments like these.
When Riza and Roy had learned their baby was a girl, Roy had smiled at Riza. "You'll do many strange hairstyles like the ones I saw on Grumman's photos!" Roza had laughed through her happy tears. She'd often wondered if she deserved her current life but Irene's birth had swept away all her doubts. Of course they would have to tell her about their deeds and their possible future, but Irene still had time to grow up in a blissful innocence. They had to grow faster than many children of their age and they didn't want her to know the same pain of losing her parents.
Irene turned around when Riza announced she was done with her hair. She looked at herself in the mirror of her room, spinning in her new dress, and smiled bright at her mother. She kissed her on the cheek. "Thank you Mom! It's so beautiful, I'm sure Elicia will love it!"
Irene and Elicia were like sisters. Hughes' daughter had quickly become fond of Mustang's daughter and behaved like her older sister, teaching her new games each time they saw each other, and despite the gap of seven years between them they'd never parted from the other. Elicia had become Irene's new approbator, and the youngest would tell her all the "problems" she didn't want to tell her parents. That didn't happen often and that fact should be highlighted.
"And you, how will you do your hair?" Riza kissed Irene's forehead. She'd let her hair grow again. It almost reached her shoulders at their wedding, and now was back to its usual length. She didn't style her hair into her usual updo so often now that she'd reduced her presence on the field after Irene's birth. Now she would do more braids or ponytails.
For an occasion as important as this one, she should look radiant. After all, the introduction of a new Fuhrer didn't happen every day, especially when he was her husband. The next few years would be difficult from a public life point of view, and she knew that her looks would matter even more than before.
"You'll see," she replied with a wink. "Go show your hair to your father so he can see how pretty you are."
The little girl frolicked out of her room, her dress floating around her legs. Riza melted each time she saw Irene so happy, and she wanted her to stay the same so hard, as much as she wanted Roy to reach his goal. And now he was close to making a huge step that he held dear. Now he would be able to change Amestris, to transform his country into the democracy it should be.
Riza entered her room and put on linen cream pants and a blue jacket on a shirt. She'd decided to wear something she could move easily in, even if she wasn't responsible for Roy's protection today. She'd planned a dress for the ball tonight and knew Roy would be pleased by it. She brushed her blond curls and pulled them up on her head with a richly crafted pin that displayed a styled version of Amestris white lion. The tip of her hair fell back free on her neck. She highlighted her eyes with a crayon and a touch of gold, then adorned her lips with a light red lipstick.
She was checking her appearance in the mirror when she caught Roy's gaze on her. He was leaning back on the door frame, a loving smile on his lips. She smiled back as a sweet warmth bloomed in her. She rose to join him. His tailor-made dress uniform didn't hide his broad shoulder and torso. On the contrary it brought it into view, showing that he hadn't done only desk work during his military career. Three stars shone on his epaulettes, the fourth one would be added during the ceremony.
"You're handsome," she whispered, taking his held hand in hers.
Roy pulled her and kissed the hand she'd given him. She blushed and heat reached her cheeks and ears. "I don't know who's the man in your life, Colonel, but he's a lucky guy," Roy said with a mischievous glint in his eyes.
"Something tells me you'd be jealous of him, your Excellency," Riza replied in the same tone. "But haven't you got everything you need in your life?"
Roy swooped on her lips, capturing them passionately. Riza kissed him back, gripping his uniform and letting go of all her restraints in his embrace. They parted breathlessly, their gazes locked on each other's. "Had I not been already married, I'd marry you on the spot," Roy breathed hoarsely.
Riza glanced at the ring on her left hand placed on his torso. She smoothed the wrinkles of his dress uniform. "You know, each year there's a beautiful opportunity for us to celebrate our wedding. Why don't we use the Fuhrer's estate next January to renew our vows with our friends?"
Roy's lips lightly kissed her forehead, just long enough for her to feel butterflies unleashed in her belly. "Each day I realize how lucky I am to have you in my life. Who knows what I'd have become if you hadn't followed me?"
"Maybe not the man who'll be the next Fuhrer, who's married his childhood love and has an adorable little girl."
"That's thanks to you she's so adorable. And you're becoming better at hairstyling." Roy laughed joyfully and Riza joined him quickly.
"Dad, Mom, if you don't hurry, people will become impatient!"
Irene's delicate voice pulled them from their intimacy. She was looking at them, seeming offended. Riza knew it was an act, but she was ready to go, her coat in her hand. At that point she was like Riza. She was a brilliant student at school and knew how to tell the time easily. Because of that she was picky about the time.
Roy stepped away from Riza, and she felt cold for a second. He joined Irene and smiled brightly. "Of course we'll go, my darling. Anyway, we must be there in advance for the last adjustments."
He was about to ruffle her hair, as he liked to do to calm or tease her, but one glare from Riza made him stop. She hadn't spent almost half an hour brushing and doing Irene's hair to have it destroyed in a second. Instead he knelt and hugged her. "First I want you to give me some courage so I'll be strong for what will happen today."
Irene hugged her father back, her small arms around his neck. A few moments later the noise of a camera caught their attention. Riza couldn't resist in front of the scene and had taken the camera in a drawer. Roy rose up, his daughter's hand in his. "If you take a picture of us, I'll take one of the two women in my life. There'll be official photographers and journalists, but I want you looking natural, without the pressure you'll feel there."
They left the bedroom and settled in the living room. Riza and Irene sat on the couch. While Roy took a picture of them, an old memory came back to Riza's mind. Mom and her on the wall of a public garden in East City, laughing because of the wind in their hair, and grandfather's smile behind his grey moustache. Placing her hand on Irene's shoulder, she thought about one thing only as she looked at the lens, smiling.
She wanted her daughter to live all the things she hadn't lived, life and its dramas to not hit her as early as Roy and her. And she knew Roy thought the same.