the challenge- "Armstrong and a case of mistaken identity. the Elrics enlistedfor help." -fireun
"You're kidding, right?"
Hughes closed the folder, thumbing the bridge of his nose in a vain attempt to stave off the stress headache he could feel planning an attack. "I have no idea how and why, but it does appear that our Armstrong has been implicated in an attack that occurred last night. Witnesses describe him perfectly, from the ridiculous sprig of a blond curl to the rather unique stature and musculature."
"But…Armstrong?" The disbelief in Ed's voice was reflected in his face as he stared at Hughes.
"I know…I know…" Hughes glowered down at the closed report. "I don't believe it either, but I need some sort of evidence to turn this over. Unfortunately our words are not exactly strong enough to clear him."
"There has to be something…" Ed muttered, slumping into the chair in front of Hughes' desk. Armstrong was such a freak of nature. It was nigh unthinkable that anyone could be mistaken for him. His stature, build, those damn sparkles….
He snapped to attention, excited. "Hughes, is there any mention in that report of pink sparkles?"
Hughes eyes narrowed behind his glasses as he threw the folder open and began to read. A triumphant sort of grin broke across his features as he leaned back a few moments later. "Well, it appears no mention of sparkles was made, Edward."
"Armstrong without sparkles is not Armstrong." Ed nodded to himself, satisfied.
"That is definitely true." Hughes reached for the phone. "I am going to make some calls. Why don't you go give the Major the good news."
In the middle of nodding in a pleased fashion Ed paused as Hughes' suggestion sank in. "Why me!"
A beatific smile shone from Hughes' face. "Why, you figured out how to clear his name after all. It is only fair you have the honor of letting him know."
Ed had a sinking feeling that he had just been set up…He shot a withering glare at Hughes and stalked out of the office. Maybe he could just sort of shout at Armstrong and get a good running start before the Major would try and snag him in some sort of thankful, celebratory hug…