A/n

Greetings to one and all. Here is yet another chapter of the Mythril Alchemist. I do not own any of the Fullmetal Alchemist universe, characters and so on. Now without further ado on with the story, enjoy!

Chapter 2: The 'Short' Metal Alchemist

Maria and I managed to catch the train back to Central and arrived late that evening. I had thankfully called ahead and made arrangements for accommodations for us while we had been on the train. After getting off the train we headed to the hotel I had gotten a room at. Then after checking in headed up to our room we had. The room itself was large, comparable to a penthouse suite or a large apartment of sorts. This room second room with a queen sized bed; the door to that room was in the corner on the right on the far wall opposite of the door. The far side in the middle had the setup of a living room with a sofa and chairs. There was a door to the left that lead to a bathroom. There was even a full kitchen in this place. That wasn't even the most impressive part; the loft takes the cake in that. The loft had not a queen size bed, no it was a king! The master bath was to the right of the bed and there was even a walk in closet. I short a FANCY room! Granted it should be as this room was a 'penthouse suite' still. Maria stood at the doorway, the door still ajar, after we had entered the room and gaped.

I on the other hand set my rolling case down and grabbed the handle on the top of it. The rolling case wasn't exactly small. It would be better in fact to say it is more of a trunk. It measured two feet high and four feet long with wheels on the bottom on one end. It was more of a mobile research supply, weapon and other material depot than a case in my opinion. The reason I considered it a case was because of the many compartments that made up this case, which I stored the many things I see the need to carry. The case also reacts to my alchemy, which was very handy in different ways. Each compartment was alchemically sealed and could be opened by me any compartment at any time and I saw fit.

Overall since the idea works, no need to change it I say. I grabbed the case and went up the small set of stairs to the loft and put my rolling case by the king size bed which was I swear was bigger than king size. I was glad I was stronger than most, the case was heavy as I kept it fairly loaded if not fully crammed most of the time. I took off my silver over coat and hung it up in the closet, then came to the railing of the loft and looked down. I saw that Maria was still gaping at the doorway. Apparently she was still in shock of the size and décor of the room.

"So Maria, are you just going to stand there all night or are you going to come in and close the door?"

She instantly moved the rest of the way into the room and closed the door.

"Um… Matthew, isn't this a little much for just the two of us?!"

I thought for a moment. I came down the stairs from the loft, before I answered Maria.

"Well I would say it normally is, yet this was apparently the only room with two beds the hotel had left available at this time. This was the third Hotel I called and the first to have any rooms! So I said I would take it. Why do you bring up the subject?"

She looked around again before she looked back at me.

"Why would we need two beds?"

I shrugged my shoulders.

"I like to give you the option of using a bed if you should want to."

"Well it is just a bit overwhelming is all; I mean how much will this cost per night and in total?"

I did some minor calculations in my head, before I replied to Maria.

"Well as we'll be in Central for four days, at 500 a night… around 2000 in total cost I believe is what it came out to."

I said this in a matter of fact voice. Our accommodations are my responsibility as I was paying for this so it is my problem as this was my decision. So I was surprised to see Maria staring at me before she started shaking.

"YOU SPENT THAT MUCH ON A ROOM!"

My surprise quickly became confusion as I looked at her. She was very mad about this it would seem, yet I am kind of baffled as to why. It's not like we're hurting for money; not with the size of my research fund that the state provides! I state again I was paying for this, so my choice and call! She started forward towards me.

"Now look Maria calm down. It isn't like we're broke or anything at the moment..."

I didn't finish because of the bang that rang in the room; the sound was due to the fact that Maria hit my head with a chop from her right gauntlet. MY head was throbbing and pounding from that impact! I keep forgetting just how much those armor gauntlets hurt when used to hit someone. I stumbled back a few steps before regaining my balance. Maria was raising her right arm to hit me again, but I blocked with my left arm. She may be able to take me be surprise once, but twice is another matter! There was a clang of metal meeting metal as our arms met.

"Okay first of all, how I spend the money from my research grant is my decision! More importantly that chop to my head hurt damn it!"

Maria wouldn't however, back down; she rarely did with me. She pushed forward against me then swung her left arm, which I narrowly evaded by drawing back and sucking in my gut. I sent my right knee up to force Maria back a step.

"You need to show more responsibility with money Matthew."

I laughed at her statement. With the vast amount I get for my research grant, I don't need to worry much! The other fact is I am somewhat frugal with how I spend. I then sent a kick with my right leg at her, which she evaded.

"That coming from the younger of the two of us, that's funny!"

Maria threw another right hook that I deflected with a downward sweep of my left arm. I spun inward towards Maria and threw a left hook at her, which brushed her lower chest plate.

"That's right and aren't you ashamed about how your younger sibling is more responsible than you?!"

I jumped up off the floor slightly and delivered a roundhouse kick which Maria blocked with one arm and countered by grabbing my left leg with her other arm. She then swung me around in a circle before throwing me across the room. I used my momentum to flip in midair to regain control of my velocity and balance; before I landed on my feet sliding on the carpet. Thank goodness I have extremely heavy duty bearing in my automail! If I didn't the joints in my right leg would be straining and the bearings would be wearing in their spots. They make the world of difference in a fight, especially the long drawn out ones!

I looked up to see Maria running towards me from the other side of the room as I had flown through the air. She was about halfway across the room when I had landed and slid to a stop. I dashed forward; leapt onto the coffee table and then launched myself into the air using the table for leverage. I soared through the air and kicked Maria hard in her breast plate forcing her back. I sailed backwards and landed lightly on the floor in front of the coffee table.

"Embarrassed?! Hardly, I am dang proud that my little sister is responsible; even more so since I am horrible with responsibility myself. It helps equal out thing between us."

"That's not what you're supposed to say!"

Maria in a flash closed the distance between us. I threw a left hook at Maria in an attempt to throw her off balance. She dodged by dropping to the floor and performing a sweep kick. I hadn't expected this and so was knocked off my feet then sent crashing to the floor. The next thing I register is a hand on my chest pinning me to the ground. I look up to see the hand was that of Maria's. I sighed in my normal sign of defeat.

"... And have yet to beat that sister in any of our sparring matches over the years."

I smiled at Maria to show the argument was done. She then took her hand off my chest and then offered it to me. I accepted it and she pulled me to my feet.

"I am sorry I lost my temper."

I kept smiled back at her and waved a hand in dismissal.

"Don't worry about it; we needed a good sparring match to let out the stress that has been accumulating for the last few weeks. Especially after the things we saw back in Vinary; it is the best way to release. Besides I would be amazed if you didn't lose your temper every now and then. It shows you're still human when you do so, though your body doesn't say that currently."

"Thanks brother, that means a lot to me."

I nodded in response.

"I really did ask if they had any other rooms free, but they didn't. Apparently this is a popular weekend so, most hotels are booked up."

"I wonder what is going on for most hotels to be so booked up."

I shrugged in confusion.

"Not a clue why that is the case; all I was told is that most decent hotels are booked. The other fact I know I was mentioning to you was I used money from my research grant. That said grant is of no small amount let me tell you, it is quite a substantial amount actually. Anyway don't worry, it will all work out things for us always do eventual, but for tonight let's get some sleep. It's very late. Tomorrow always bring something, so let's be ready for whatever it will be."

===The next morning===

I woke up, thankful that I had closed the shades last night before turning in for the night. It prevented the sun from sending its light down and shines in my eyes and that would have been a very rude awakening.

Now I'm a person that doesn't like things to be early. I'm not a morning person period! To me if the sun hasn't been up for a couple of hours, then it's too dang early! I look over at the clock on the wall next to the bed; 7:30 a.m. Joy for me; speaking of too early in the morning! Now the question is why in the hell am I up so dang early?!

My recertification exam wasn't until 10 a.m.; that's two and a half hours away. I knew I could go back to sleep if I chose to. Yet the exchange would come in the form that I would later be woken up by Maria. That was something I would rather avoid as much as I can. I really don't want to have headaches for most of the day, with my exam I would prefer to have all mental faculties functioning the best they could! Such a thing would be due to the fact that when Maria wakes me up; she does so by giving me a sharp smack to the head to do the said waking. So I chose to get up rather than sleep more. So, I stretched and yawned. I have to say as comfortable this bed is, king size is just too big in my opinion.

I got out of bed still only half awake. I shuffled over to my rolling case and opened the back compartment that held my clothes and picked out my outfit for the day. I reminded myself to thank Maria for convincing me to go to get my clothes washed while we were in Vinary. I proceeded to the master bathroom that was connected to the loft. I really needed a much needed shower. I had the smell of blood and sweat; that would be unlikely to go over well for those who will be judging my work at my exam.

Normally water and automail aren't a good mix, I'm told. Problems apparently, due to changing the lubrication fluid consistency or mixture or something like that. I was thankful to my brilliant mechanic; because her custom made automail doesn't have that defect at all. So I don't have to worry about water or other liquids causing problems to my automail. One less hassle to have to worry about for me! When I got out of the shower and had dressed I walked out of the bathroom with a hairbrush, combing and straightening my hair. It is one of the major disadvantages of long hair, having to take care and do the maintenance on it. I descended down the stairs as I finished bradding my hair. I looked around and saw Maria in one of the armchairs and I saw that she was stirring by this time. She glanced over to the stairs to see me.

"Good morning Matthew."

I nodded and threw my braid of hair over my shoulders.

"Good morning Maria."

"So what is the plan for today?"

I came over and sat down on the couch. I went over mentally the plans of the day.

"Well I have my recertification exam at 10 a.m. this morning. After that, since we're here in Central; I was thinking we could stop by the library to see if we can make sense of Isen's notes until lunch. After lunch I have no idea."

"Which branch of the library do we go to?"

I froze at that question. Oh dear, since we don't get to Central very often… about once every two years unless something unusual comes up and I get recalled. The fact that Central has multiple branches to their library system is one that had slipped my mind. That complicates the daunting task of understanding Isen's notes. I turned slowly to Maria.

"Oh yeah, I forgot there are multiple branches in the library here in Central, oops."

Maria sighed. I laughed nervously.

"Okay then new plan! Maria could you, while I am doing my exam find out which branch we will need to go to for the information we need. We need to have books on the subject of mineral alchemy."

Maria nodded in understanding. I got up and ran up the stairs locked my rolling case shut and grabbed my silver over coat from the closet and put it on. I grabbed the handle of my rolling case and came back down the stairs. When I had gotten to the bottom I snapped my fingers and a small latch on the bottom rim of the case opened and I pulled out a handle. Now my case which had my materials in it was ready to roll. I love this case!

"Let's be on our way then, I would like to stop for breakfast before my exam. Forward and onward!"

===a few hours later===

"That was an excellent breakfast to start off the day."

I glanced over to Maria that at the moment was looking a little downcast. I realized she had heard what I said and suddenly felt horrible. I had reminded her about her inability to eat.

"I'm sorry Maria; I didn't mean to remind you of... the things you're unable to do as you are right now."

"It is okay brother."

I still felt horrible at what I had said. I wanted to cheer her up as she is my little sister. It's what big brothers do; the good one at least.

"I know I have said this before Maria, but I will say it again. I promise, I will find a way to get your body back. When we do you name it and we go and do all the things you can't now!"

"Thanks, it is nice to be reminded of our promise."

I glanced down at my watch for the time. It was 9:35 a.m. It was getting close to the time for me to report for my exam. I needed to dash! If I'm late, it will hurt my reputation as the Mythril Alchemist! That would be four years of good hard work that would go down the drain!

"Maria I need to get going if I don't want to be late. So I will see you afterwards, later."

I broke into a run. The exams were held and overseen by military high command. Since that was the case the exams were held at Central command. So I ran off towards the center of the city where I needed to go take my exam.

===scene change===

I stood outside central command catching my breath. I still had ten minutes to spare before my exam. It is a good thing I am in such good and fit shape at times like this. After I had caught my breath, I made my way up the steps and entered the building.

There were two tables with soldiers checking people in. I approached one of the tables and waited for my turn. When my turn came, I put my credentials on the table for the soldier to see. He looked up at me.

"My name is Matthew Selvess."

The soldiers saluted nervously as he had seen my credentials. I'm well aware that in the military system, rank and position does matters a lot. The structure of the system depends on soldiers following those of superior rank. Still I don't like authority; it just is a hassle for someone like me who doesn't really care about formalities. I had only joined the state military by becoming a state alchemist. I did so to get the funding my research needed; my work cost a LOT of money in the beginning. I rarely did the normal duties that my military rank would do. I have met two others who are, like me state alchemists and have the rank of Brigadier General; such as Basque Grand the "Iron-Blood" Alchemist or Christopher Francesco the "Terra Shift" Alchemist. I tended to get along with the latter of the two of them as he is not as strict.

"Of course Brigadier General go right ahead."

I nodded and thanked him and continued passed the tables for checking in. I headed through central command which was as usual when I come here, busy. Most the soldiers there ignored me; likely because I wasn't wearing the blue Amestrian uniform. I have since I had been certified as a state alchemist refused to wear the uniform, instead opting to go with my silver overcoat and whatever I felt like under that. I still had an Amestrian uniform; it was just at the bottom of the compartment that I kept my clothes in.

I finally arrived in the room that was being used for the state alchemist certification exams. It was an open room that there was no roof above. There were multiple tables where judges were observing alchemist doing transmutations. I saw a fairly good number of people in the room that weren't in military uniform. I assumed they were the applicants for state alchemist positions. I took a few minutes to watch some of the applicants doing their exams. As I observed them I wasn't very impressed; in fact I wasn't at all. The alchemist were either okay or they were novices. I hope this isn't what the future of state alchemist is going to be! Granted I had been one of the few exceptions that had outdone expectations, but the few exams I watched, if I were to judge I would fail them. They were making too many mistakes! Yes mistakes happen; still the applicants were making simple ones that I expect beginners to make a couple times.

While I had been looking at some of the examinees, I noticed a soldier coming up to me after seeing me.

"Excuse me, are you Brigadier General Selvess?"

I nodded in replied to the female soldier if the voice was anything to go by. The female soldier gesture for me to head over to a table on the right side of the room and I nodded again, thanking the woman. When I approached the table I saw that behind the table were five chairs with the five judges that would be proctoring my exam. They would be the five I need to impress, I was confident that I could do just that. Looking at their faces I noted that they were rather bored, very likely due to having to see the applicants making simple mistakes. I know I got bored quick watching them botching the rules of alchemy so badly! I stood in front of the table and bowed to the five officers and had some of their attention.

"Good morning gentlemen, I'm Matthew Selvess. It is a pleasure to be here in front of you today. Thank you for taking the time to be here."

I now had the undivided attention after the greeting I gave. The officer in the center smiled and spoke up.

"Hello Mr. Selvess, I must say all of us have been looking forward to judging a recertification exam for some variety. It is our good fortune to be able to judge the work of the 'Mythril Alchemist'; it's always said to be amazing!"

I nodded and smiled. In my original certification exam I hadn't just impressed those who had been watching; I had wowed them completely that I had been certified in less than an hour at the age of fifteen! The Fuery had been in the onlookers during my exam and even he had been impressed. He had asked me a few questions about my work before he personally certified me right there. My first recertification exam was very similar; I blew expectations of me out of the water and thoroughly shocked and impressed the judges once again. I would rise to do such a performance again here today!

"I do aim to do the best quality work I can sir."

It was then the officer on the far left spoke up and he gestured for me to continue.

"Very well then, you may begin Mr. Selvess whenever you are ready."

I nodded and set down my rolling case. I took out my alchemic gauntlets that had transmutation circles engraved on them. I can perform alchemy without them, yet the common person doesn't know that and I don't see a reason for that fact to change. I opened the front most compartments on my case where I kept my research material. I took out two short silver rods and placed them on the table.

"Gentlemen I would bring your attention to these two metal rods. This is the alchemic alloy known as Mithril, which I invented, created and continue to improve."

I gave the officers a short explanation on what Mythril was and a brief idea of the creation process. I told them that Mythril, the silver like material was extremely durable and nearly indestructible by conventional means known at this time. As it could only be made through alchemy, it had some unique properties. The alloy's durability and the strength of the alloy itself, which said strength and durability were amazing as there was little that could do damage to Mythril. Hence one of the reasons I was certified so quick; inventing a nearly indestructible alloy is no small feat! One of the other properties of Mythril and a very interesting one to note other than its durability strength of course, is that was to be able to manipulate Mythril you needed to know the exact alchemic make up or you couldn't transmute the Mythril at all. I still am the only one who knows the recipe for the alloy and understands the creation process of Mythril.

I have become accustom to giving this short but precise explanation about Mythril. I had to do so to most people as they don't know the name of the alloy. Most call it by either the name of "Divine Silver Steel" or "Holy Silver"; the latter tends to come up since it is the short name of the two. After my short explanation, I pointed to the one on my left or their right.

"This is the Mithril rod I presented at my last exam, please feel it should you wish."

The officers took the rod and handled it and passed it between one another. I smiled as they did. After they had inspected the rod they put it back.

"Now the second Mithril rod here may look identical however, it is not. It's make up has three different ingredients that the original rod doesn't include ..."

The officers began to handle the second rod and one of them hummed in surprise.

"Why this one is noticeably lighter than the other."

I nodded in confirmation. It has been the current point I have been improving; cutting the overall cost and weight. The original weight of Mythril had made application of the alloy impractical. It was just too heavy; I could carry Mythril, though I have amazing strength compared to average. I have gotten the total weight down since then so that most can carry the alloy without much of a problem. The cost at first… well wasn't cheap in the slightest! Four of the original materials I used to make Mythril were VERY expensive! I have found alternative materials to two of the original ones that don't compromise the alloy at all and cost MUCH less.

"Correct, the weight is lighter with the change in ingredients. I can assure you however that the different ingredients don't compromise or change the durability of the metal at all. The other thing is the changes in the ingredients have cut the cost to produce this metal by half of what it used to cost."

There were some gasps at my last comment on the cost. The original cost of Mithril had always been one of the harder problems to get pass, other than the recipe itself. Military High command when they had first seen how strong Mithril was and how much of a beating it could take, they were interested in it. They were quick to certify me and give me a 'generous' research fund to work with to improve Mithril.

I took one of the Mythril rods on my belt and brought it out in my right hand. I clapped my hands together and manipulated the rod into a thick sheet. The sheet was four inches wide, ten inches long and two inches thick. I held it in my left hand and looked at the officers.

"Gentlemen may I ask that whomever among you has the best aim with a gun; please take a gun out and then shot this sheet of Mythril."

One of the officers rose and took the gun that was in a holster at his left hip. He took aim and shot three rounds at the sheet of Mythril. When he had all of the officers gasped as they saw there was no change to the Mythril. There wasn't a single dent, scratch or any kind of mark on the sheet.

===scene change===

When I had finished my exam, the officers had been extremely impressed by my work and the display of it. So it is nearly impossible that I will fail to be recertified as a state alchemist again. I pulled my rolling case behind me as I made my way back through central command. I was smiling as I was in a good mood currently.

"Ah if it isn't the Mythril Alchemist, Matthew Selvess."

I turned to see who had spoken. I was surprised to see that it was none other than the Führer King Bradley himself. I mean there was always the chance I could see him; even more so when I was given the rank of Brigadier General. It wasn't like I avoided him or anything; it's just I am in Central so rarely that our paths really don't cross.

"It is always good to see you King Bradley sir. How is your son doing lately?"

Bradley's son was a bit of a fan of a little hobby I have. During my spare time, at least the small amount of time I have to spare that I don't focus on my work; I have a hobby that brings in extra money. I do intricate Mythril figurines and then sell them; I normally make to order. When Bradley's son had seen one of the figurines I made; he wanted one. So for his birthday I made one of King Bradley in uniform. I hope he liked it; King Bradley smiled at me.

"He is doing well, thank you for asking. He quite enjoys the gift you sent for his birthday."

Apparently he had liked the figurine of his father; I smiled.

"I am glad he does. I made that figurine with him being your son in mind."

"As it happens, I was hoping to run into you; when I remembered your recertification exam was this week. I am glad I did get to see you, Mr. Selvess while you were here."

"For something good I hope sir. I haven't done anything to be in trouble that I can think of at the moment."

King Bradley laughed slightly.

"Indeed it is a good reason. You are not in trouble; I was hoping you could assist on a case, with your skills in observation and seeing motive. I think your view would be valuable."

I nodded. The state military had noticed early on during my time as a state alchemist; that I had an amazing knack for seeing details that others miss. So I get asked to help on crime cases now and then.

"I could look at the case and give my view on it sir, if you wish. I would need to see the case file."

King Bradley still smiling handed me an envelope.

"Give this to Colonel Mustang and he will give you the case file. You can find Colonel Mustang at the eastern outpost, thanks for your assistance in this."

With that King Bradley walked away from me. I looked down at the envelope and sighed. Joy I now have extra work while I am here; meaning there will be less time to do research for Isen's notes! Oh well, maybe it will be interesting in some way; some of the case I help with are, occasionally. I left the same way I had entered it.

I had started down the steps of central command, when I noticed someone in a tall suit of armor. I couldn't help but think, 'that's... something you don't see every day, maybe some kind of hobby.' … Actually I see Maria every day and her body was a suit of armor. So I kind of do see this kind of thing every day. Yet I doubt that the person is "wearing" the suit of armor as Maria is.

Now that I think about it; what are the odds that the suit of armor isn't being "worn", but they're someone, who somehow lost their body and another bound their soul to the suit of armor? Oh why not take it a step further? Wouldn't be the weirdest coincidence if the first bet is true, the one who bonded their soul was their older sibling? … Okay since I am going on the weird tangent of guesses and predictions of what this sight is not. Why not go with the whole way and guess the impossible! If ideas one and two are in some ridiculous way facts of truth, then what are the slimmest of chances that the older sibling and the one that's bound to the armor now, ended up the way they are through committing the Taboo and did human transmutation?! … Like any of that would happen! That's not even really feasible in this case! Matthew you need to keep your head out of tangents like that; they're unhealthy!

Well best way to get an answer is just to ask. I walked down to the person in the armor. I put down my rolling case with a soft clunk.

"Pardon me; I was wondering is wearing that armor a hobby of some sort?"

The person in the armor turned to face me. His eyes were red pupils surrounded by black. My mind suddenly thought about Maria. This person's eyes were exactly like Maria's. That is different; I wonder if he really could be… no, as I said the odds of that are nigh to impossible! It's just my mind wandering into place I should go; I guess.

"No it is not a hobby."

I smiled back. That was rather rude of me to ask.

"I am sorry, that was rude of me to assume that. My name is Matthew Selvess, what is yours?"

"It is Alphonse Elric."

"It is nice to meet you Alphonse or do you prefer Mr. Elric?"

"Alphonse is fine."

I shook his hand. I sat down on the steps and Alphonse sat down next to me.

"So it might not be my business, but are you waiting for someone Alphonse?"

"Well you can call me Al and yes I am waiting for my brother."

So he has a brother does he? … This isn't helping in proving my betting tirade wrong! Actually it is more becoming plausible… No, this is nothing but an odd occurrence! Maria and I are the only ones who have done such stupid things! We are paying the price for our mistake! Well she committed the Taboo as well so Maria and I aren't the only ones technically! Um… that's bad subject to get into; time for a subject change. I nodded at his answer. I wondered who his brother was, but dismissed the question at the moment.

"I see I hope you don't mind if I wait next to you since I am also waiting for someone."

Al looked at me and nodded.

"No it is okay, I don't mind. My brother is here receiving orders."

I felt my eyebrows rise slightly. That means he is in the military; I wonder if he is an alchemist?

"I would assume then, that your brother is in the military?"

Al nodded to answer me.

"He is a state alchemist, the Fullmetal Alchemist."

My mouth had opened slightly. I pegged his brother on the money?! That's unexpected! I had heard the rumors about the Fullmetal Alchemist, even while on my travels. Quite a few interesting rumors among them in fact. Supposedly he is some sort of prodigy when it comes to alchemy, much like me. He is also supposed to be quite young as well. So I was mildly interested to know which rumors were true and which were exaggerations. I wouldn't mind having another alchemist around my age instead of having a ten year or more age gap between me and the next youngest alchemist. It has been getting tiring to have to deal with everyone else around you treating you as a green horn or something like that. However, before I had a chance to ask Al more. I heard a child's voice.

"Al!"

We turned to see a woman and a little five year old girl with here. I continued to stare as I realized I knew the pair. I had visited them two years ago when Maria and I were back in Central the last time.

"Elicia, Mrs. Hughes it is nice to see you."

Apparently Al knew them as well by what he had said. I looked at the two ladies and smiled. I had met the two ladies years ago when Lieutenant Maes Hughes had asked for my assistance on a case he was working on. We became… friends in a fashion, while working on the case together and so Maria and I had gotten to know his family as well. After that Maria and I tended to drop by to see them when we were in Central rare as that was.

I had caught Elicia's eye and she stared at me, while I smiled and waved back at her. I have no idea if she even remembers me, it had been around two years since the last time I saw her. She had been three or so back then. I can never tell when kids begin to remember things.

"Ah, you're Matt, daddy's friend, ha ha."

It would seem she does remember me. She must have her dad's memory for details. I just she didn't inherit he father's ability to talk one's ear off.

"I am impressed you remember me Elicia. You were still pretty young last time I saw you. You must have gotten your father's memory when it comes to details. Speaking of pretty, you sure have gotten better in that area."

Elicia smiled back at me.

"Ah so it is you Matthew."

I waved and Mrs. Hughes. I wonder if Hughes has finally overcome that bad habit of his and learned to be quite once and a while. With this being Hughes, I very much doubt it!

"It is nice to see you Gracia, so tell me has that man of yours talked his mouth off yet. He uses to talk non-stop about you two as I recall. Still as I don't get around here in Central as often as some, I couldn't say if that is the case still."

"No, he still does."

That's Hughes for you exactly as I thought. I would say he is showing loyalty to his family, but he goes overboard on being proud and happy by showing off pictures of his wife and daughter.

"Ha ha, it is good that he appreciates his family. But he needs to give it a rest, once and a while at least, for those around him if anything else."

"Wait you know Lieutenant Hughes?"

I glanced over at Al. I guess it would be confusing since I talked to Gracia and Elicia like I was a member of their family.

"Sure do, he and I have worked on a case together and through that I got to know his family."

I felt a tug on my sleeve and looked down to see Elicia. See looked like she wanted to ask me a question. She is too cute! That cuteness could be dangerous if I wasn't careful.

"Hey Matt, where is Mari?"

Mari? What is she talking about? I looked at her blankly trying to understand the question. It was then Gracia spoke.

"I believe she means Maria."

Oh, that's right she wasn't able to say Maria's name right the last time so Elicia had just started to call Maria, Mari. Maria didn't seem to mind it so I didn't say anything about it. I smiled in comprehension.

"She is doing some things at the moment, but I will be meeting up with her soon."

Gracia Hughes smiled at Al and me.

"Well Elicia we need to get going so wave goodbye to them."

Elicia waved at us with a smile on her face. The two of them left. She has become a cute kid. It's no wonder that Hughes gushes over like he does; he has been entranced by her cuteness. Al turned to me.

"So who is this Maria?"

"Oh, she is my younger sister. We have been traveling together."

"That sounds nice."

My smile faltered as I looked at him questioningly. Al sounded forlorn about Maria and I traveling together.

"Oh… you sound down about the idea of traveling with someone. Why is that so?"

"You and your sister are traveling together it must be nice to do so."

By the things he said earlier I was under the impression that his brother and him were going places together as well. Maybe that isn't how it is for him with his brother. My smile had disappeared from my face by this time.

"Don't you and your brother travel together?"

"Yes we travel together."

Okay so then why does Al sound so down about Maria and me traveling with each other? I guess that isn't my business per say. I smiled again.

"Then you know it is nicer to travel with someone than to travel alone. My sister and I have been traveling together for years now."

I glanced down at my watch for the time. I saw that it was a lot later than I had thought!

"Oh my, would you look at the time! I am sorry Al, but I need to go. It was nice meeting and talking to you."

I grabbed my rolling case and briskly jogged off to find Maria.

===scene change===

I found Maria after around fifteen minutes of looking. She had used the time I had been taking my exam to find out which branch would have the books on mineral type alchemy. She had learned in her search where we would need to go, that was the second branch of Central's library, for the books we were looking for were there. So we headed to the second branch in search of books that could help us translate the meaning of Isen's notes.

When we had arrived at the Second Branch of Central's Library I approached the main desk looking around for someone to ask for where the books on the subject we needed were located. I seeing no one examined the desk in hopes of finding something else that could perhaps summon assistance. I spotted a bell; one of the sorts you would find at the front desk of a hotel. I tapped the small button on the top of the bell. It rang quietly in the silent library. I waited for a minute still looking around for anyone! Maria was shifting her armored limbs; showing that she was restless like I was. I began to tap my left foot impatiently.

When two minutes had gone by I rang the bell again. I am starting to wonder if it wouldn't be more efficient to just go searching ourselves; at least it would be faster at this point! A few more minutes went by and I was getting irritated and began ringing the bell ever thirty seconds! This place that people call a library was as empty and quiet as a morgue is of living bodies right now. After about ten minutes of this later, I was about to give up on waiting for someone and go looking myself. When finally a person that I hope was a library assistant came to the desk and bowed.

"Good day to you sir, is there something I can help you with?"

I wanted to say that you made us wait for over fifteen minutes! That however, would be kind of mean and that isn't the type of person I am; unless someone pushes me to do that. I took a deep breath before I nodded in reply.

"Yes, I am looking for books on the subject of mineralogy and mineral based alchemy. I would prefer ones published around twenty five years ago to most recent. Could you direct us to where such books might be? As much as I would love to spend the day in a library; unfortunately I don't have the time."

The library assistant took a moment to think about the request.

"There are quite a few books that would fit those parameters, are multiple sections in fact. Could you specify or narrow down your query any more what you wish to find books on?"

I took a second to think how to put what we were doing without simply announcing that we had Isen's notes. Admitting that I had Isen's notes was something I wanted to avoid. Since someone had gone to the trouble of murdering Isen; the party the two were a part of, didn't want his notes to be read or see the light of day. As far as they know his notes haven't been found or had been lost. Things would go smoother if said party continues to think that.

"Well I came across some references to a former state alchemist's notes and have some excerpts of the alchemist's notes. However, the notes make references to subjects I'm not very familiar with. So I wanted to get a somewhat basic understanding even if it is only minor one of the subjects referenced."

The assistant nodded in comprehension.

"Which state alchemist's notes do you have excerpts from?"

"They're from Former state alchemist Kurt Isen's work I believe."

The library assistant nodded again. Apparently they recognized the name of Isen.

"The Earth Stone alchemist, I believe the books you would need are in the third section, the second and third rows. If you need more assistance please don't hesitate to ask."

Oh I won't hesitate to ask; if I wanted to waste my time waiting for someone to come to help me! Instead, I bowed and thanked the assistant, and then Maria and I proceeded to the referred location in the library. When we reached the area I looked down the second row and my eyebrows raised and my mouth opened in shock. The sheer number of books that were there was amazing and they were all on mineral based alchemy. Each of the bookshelves was built eight feet long and between eight and ten feet high per section. The rows of selves tended to be made up of five of the eight foot sections. All those shelves were completely full of books. Maria and I just stood there for a moment and stared; Maria most likely with awe, where for me it was in reverence and joy. Maria spoke first out of the two of us.

"The assistant wasn't joking when he said there were a lot of books on the subject."

I nodded in agreement. Books have a special place in my heart and have always will.

"And how... Well I suppose that just staring will do little. So… let's as I love to say, time to dive into the books then shall we?!"

After an hour of skimming through the vast number of books we had managed to narrow the number down to six different books. Hopefully these books would help understand Isen's notes.

"Well six is much better than what we started with brother."

"Indeed, let us go check out these books for now and head back to the hotel. We can begin to translate the notes there."

We headed up to the main desk again; I was grateful that the assistant was there so we didn't have to wait. We checked out the books we had narrowed down to in our search. I put them in my rolling case for easier transport and we left the second branch. As we had been heading back to the hotel I was looking forward to an evening of reading and research. I was planning out a system of how Maria and I would get through the majority of the books tonight when I remembered the assignment I had gotten from King Bradley. I suppose I should get the case started first before research; oh fiddlesticks!

"Hey Maria, you go back to the hotel by yourself. I need to make a slight detour to pick up something from the eastern checkpoint command post. I will meet you back at the hotel after I am done."

Maria looked at me. I hadn't mentioned my talk with Führer Bradley to her; I trust Maria, but I don't want to involve her in something that could be dangerous.

"Military assignment; it will be quick, if I have any say in the matter. We will see how things go.

"Are you sure you don't want me to come with you?"

I shook my head. It would be better for just me to go.

"No, I don't see going to pick up things being that much of a problem to do. Of course, that is unless I get some kind of crap to deal with or something else."

"Like what?"

I thought for a moment. What is the worst that could occur?

"Oh I, don't know, two guys acting like stupid school boys or a muscle obsessed guy breaking through a wall to name a few. Those are such possibilities I would rather avoid."

If I mention possibilities why not go really random?

-Scene change-

I arrived at the eastern checkpoint command post, which is where the case file was supposed to be at that I was asked by the Führer himself in person to look at. Instead of waiting for someone to ask me if I needed help; I started to ask around for Mustang who Führer Bradley said was in charge. The response of most soldiers was to ignore me at first; likely due to me being young as I am. That's normal for me; I have been getting that type of treatment for the last six years being certified as a state alchemist starting at fifteen. But I can be really good at getting attention when I want to, that is for sure.

How did I get the soldiers to give me their attentions you might ask? I simply watch for a moment and when a soldier was passing me I grabbed him by the collar of his uniform. This action got the attention of most if not all of the soldiers in the office quick. When I had done so, I asked the soldier I was holding where I would be able to find Colonel Mustang. The soldier whose name was Havoc tried to tell me to go away, but I gave him a look that told him to do what he was told. He showed me to where Mustang's office was without another word after seeing the expression. There I met a female soldier by the name of Risa Hawkeye outside of Mustang's office. She was a lieutenant and apparently like a secretary to this colonel Mustang. However, Mustang was currently busy with someone else by what lieutenant Hawkeye said. The person that Mustang was with would take some time; the two didn't get along or so the soldiers in this place would say as they would chuckle. It was a reaction I hadn't expected!

Well as I will need to wait for a time, might as well use the time for catching up of my notes. I looked around and saw a row of chairs, so I brought my rolling case over to stand by the chair I planned to sit in. Then I took the seat to wait for the Colonel to finish with his present appointment. There was no rush for me to get the case file and go. I hope that this appointment of Mustang's wouldn't take the whole evening. I have research to do and this case needed to be done first. So I wanted to get it done and out of the way so I could go back to researching for a way to get Maria back her body and also my work.

I would just like to get the file and still have time to get some sleep tonight. It had been a long day and compiling my notes would be a wise idea. I sunk down into the chair and I glanced around the room and saw that Alphonse Elric was sitting just outside the office in the hallway that was connected to this office I was now in. This was a very nice surprise to see Alphonse again. He had been nice company even for a short time.

"Well, we meet again Al."

Al looked over at me.

"Oh Mr. Selvess I didn't expect to see you here."

"Please you can just call me Matthew; I'm not really fond of titles. Plus just hearing someone saying 'Mr. Selvess' makes me think they're addressing my father rather than me."

As I sat in the chair waiting for the man called Roy Mustang, there was silence between myself and Al. I took out my notebook that was in my back pocket along with a pen. Then I began to go over my most recent notes. The biggest thing recently had been those two, odd people Maria and I came across while we had been looking for Isen. The Fat boy or Gluttony as his name apparently was had done some things that shouldn't be possible. I mean mouths simply don't open THAT wide… not without unhinging the jaw. Then there had been fat boy's arm regenerating after I had sliced it off. I have never seen regeneration that quick or clean! Then there had been the woman; I knew much less about her, just her name in fact. Lust creeped me out in a way that no one has before. Between them the only thing for sure that I could see was that strange tattoo that they both had.

It was then felt someone's gaze on me. I glanced over and saw Al was the one doing so; he was trying to see what I was reading. I was used to this; Maria does it to me a lot. It was how she learned alchemy almost as quick as I did; she observed me.

"Is there something I can do for you Al?"

He shook his head nervously.

"No I was just wondering what you were reading."

I smiled back at Al, he really reminded me of Maria.

"It is okay Al, I was going over my notes I have been jotting down recently. I have always had the habit to write things down for later review."

"Oh Sorry, I wasn't trying to pry."

I continued to smile at him.

"Don't worry about it Al, my sister does that quite a lot as well."

Al was rubbing the back of his head. I was about reassure Al that it was really okay and I didn't mind. Yet, it was then the door that I had been told lead to Mustang's office flew open or rather it was nearly sent off its hinges and two people came out. One was a man with short black hair and in a blue Amestrian uniform. If I were to hazard a guess the man must be Colonel Roy Mustang. The other was... a kid with blond hair, in a red over coat? At least I think that was what I was seeing; I couldn't be one hundred percent sure.

The 'kid' looked… fourteen years old, maybe less? … This is getting really awkward and kind of odd! Okay what is with this scene?! It was hard to tell what was happening and who was involved at the moment since the kid and Mustang were arguing like little unruly school boys. It was a rather embarrassing display if you ask me. I don't deny this show that these two were unknowingly putting on for everyone else was extremely comical! Wait unruly school… oh for the love of… why does this happen more often than not?!

"Colonel, Edward that is enough."

This was said by Lieutenant Hawkeye. Lite entertainment in the work place is good for a healthy work environment; I totally agree such a sentiment, though not good when in excess! I wonder if this sort of thing is normal here in Central. I don't get around here much so I wouldn't know what is normal. If it is, even more of a reason for me to travel a lot; I need to stay away from this kind of thing! This would provide far too much opportunity for me to have fun at others expense, usually by teasing them relentlessly. Maria had been desperately trying to break me of the habit of teasing others about their faults that they had a problem with and pulling practical jokes on people. You see the more I get to know about someone the more likely I am to tease them; one of the ways I show I care. Others might say it is more a way to insult someone and I may come off that way, but I disagree. To laugh with someone is a good thing, even if it is at their expense. One of the reasons we travel so much; Maria's way of not giving me opportunity to even be tempted to prank or tease!

I simply shook my head and sighed. The two 'boys' continued to argue and were at each other's throat! It was as if they hadn't heard the Lieutenant; I doubt they had and if they did both had ignored her. I would normally attempt to ignore such sights; or I would come up with a way to make it even more amusing! Nonetheless I had other things to do; no need to tempt fate at the present moment. Besides I needed Mustang's cooperation to get the case file I have been asked to look over. However, why do I have to get one of the scenarios that I used as an example with Maria?! I come up with such random ones so that I don't have to watch them! Yet here I am like times before watching stuff like this!

"Has anyone told the two of you; the both of you fight like unruly school boys? If you are trying to show how big of an idiot you both are, you're doing an amazing job."

I had raised my voice enough so that both heard me. Nevertheless, I was still reading through my notebook and so I didn't even looking up as I said what I had. I was making a small notation on an entry as I did. The reaction I received from my statement was that both of the 'boys' turning to face me and said in sync.

"YOU CARE TO REPEAT THAT!"

I sighed. Am I being force to babysit here? I would like to know what I have done to have deserved this crap as a punishment! I closed my notebook and rose from the chair I was sitting in. I looked at them to see their faces set with expressions of fury. These two are quite the pair of emotional boys, aren't they? It was rather comical to me in a fashion, and yet also fairly annoying. I really hate having to be delayed and denied time I could be researching! It is why I tend not to work with others often; I can usually get the job done faster myself. But there are times that I need to corporate with others to get things done and I know it. Still I kept a straight face as I spoke to them.

"If you insist, I said 'Has anyone told the two of you; the both of you fight like unruly school boys? If you are trying to show how big of an idiot you both are, you're doing an amazing job.' Please act your age and not like idiotic boys who look like older than they are mentally. You both are supposed to be adults in the military after all. I assume that you are Roy Mustang, am I correct?"

I pointed at the man in Uniform, to which he nodded as he calmed down. I walked up to Mustang; he is a tad taller than me, but that is kind of normal for me. Most officers are taller than me as well as older. I didn't even spare a look for the kid; I saw no need to. I am here to get the case file and then go back to the hotel, do some research, before going to bed! That was my master plan. However, even though I was ignoring him I could hear him saying something I assume to get my attention. This blonde kid needs to learn to shut that mouth when others are talking!

"I am here to pick up the 'Horsemen case file'. I have been asked to look it over."

Mustang looked at me in slight disbelief. I really don't know what the case is about yet. I will read it later I just want to get out of here before I do something I will end up regretting later in the form of being bitten in the rear!

"Why would you need to look at it? Who are you anyway?"

I shrugged my shoulders. Hell if I know why the higher ups want me to look at the case. I really don't care much either way.

"My name is Matthew Selvess. As to why I need the file, I was asked to give it a look over. I guess the higher ups in the military want a second opinion on the matters in this case, but who knows? It isn't up to me to make that decision."

I went to my rolling case, opened one of the front compartments and took out the letter I had gotten from Führer King Bradley and handed it to Mustang. The letter was still sealed; I had no reason to open the envelope. He took out the letter and looked over it before he stiffened.

"Falman tell Hughes to go fetch the Horsemen Case Report for our guest, these orders confirm what he says."

Finally some progress on getting this done so I can get down to some peaceful and wonderful research! It was then the kid began to shout shattering my hopefully prospect.

"HEY DON'T IGNORE ME!"

I finally looked down to the kid who had just shouted. I had tried to ignore him; mostly for his own benefit. I don't play well with others, the majority of the time; especially the kind that are bratty and loud! This kid fit the type of person I dislike and so LOVE to tease and prank the most! I sighed at his action. This kid was really making an idiot of himself without even trying. I still had no clue as to why the kid was even here! This is a military facility, not a day care or school!

"What is it kid?"

"I AM NOT A KID!"

Oh really?! The way you're acting disproves that statement in a heartbeat! He was still yelling, only proving my original assumption correct; he is just a kid. He needed to be put in his place and I would be more than happy to put him there! … But Maria would royally ream me if she were to find out. She somehow always does and then I have to deal with Maria beating me followed by the silent treatment. I don't want to go through that again! It was just cold! So the question is, should I be that mean?

"You certainly act like one. Now what do you want kid, a cookie or something?! Sorry I'm all out of cookies, besides you would have to earn one by good behavior."

"I TOLD YOU I'M NOT A KID AND I AM HERE TO GET MUSTANG TO CHANGE HIS MIND!"

I looked over to Mustang for an explanation, which had his hand to his forehead. These two really don't get along do they? This is getting interesting; I can hardly wait to know what happens next in this story. Oh it's becoming so hard to resist messing with the kid! I must… resist the urge… One line shouldn't hurt, right?!

"Oh, is that so, I wasn't aware that the military now doubled as a babysitting service, that is nice to know. Now kid, can't you see that the adults are talking; so be good and wait."

I kept a hold on the reins on my teasing and pranking urges; there Maria, hope you are proud of me for that. Your years of work are paying off as I am not being like I used to be. Al rose and came forward.

"Brother, come on that is enough."

This came from Al; I turned to him, before I fully processed what he had said. …Please tell me he didn't say brother?! Then that would mean that the kid is... Oh you have got to be kidding me! This kid is the 'Fullmetal Alchemist'… Oh this would be trouble! I let of something between a sigh and a groan. So much for hoping for a good colleague close to my age! Instead I get a brat of a kid as the only other alchemist less than ten years apart from my age.

"Excuse me kid, you wouldn't happen to be the Fullmetal Alchemist, would you?"

"Yeah I am what is it to you?"

I shook my head in exasperation. Oh I will miss my original misconception of him! Kid you have no idea just how many rules you have broken already with the way you are acting, that is before opening your mouth and badmouthing me. I could have you court martialed for a couple of reasons I can pick from! Although wonder why they gave you the title of Fullmetal? That kind of title would fit your brother more; it doesn't fit you at all!

"I have heard some of the rumors that had been circulating about the Fullmetal Alchemist, yet this isn't what I had expected. More what I had least had expected to see."

"What do you mean by that?"

Well looks like the time to put this kid in his place for the moment has come. I am sorry Maria I can't resist the urge; this kid is just asking for this so badly. I will deliver! I promise to repent of this later!

"Well the rumors never said anything about you being, so... so..."

I am normally a nice person to other people when it comes to not saying insults that are obviously true. There are exceptions, but those are rare; usually when Maria isn't around. In this instance I was wondering if he would take the bait I had just thrown out for him. I was fishing for an insult granted, but I'm good at pegging people accurately. Al's brother, Edward Elric's height or lack thereof was my guess for his soft spot. Oh how I hope he takes the bait! I really want to tease him; he practically begging for it!

"So what?"

YES! Oh yeah he took the bait hook line and sinker! I am going to enjoy this; I haven't pranked someone like I was about to for nearly a year! I have tried to overcome the urge for Maria as it seems so important to her. But I can't deny that I find a certain element of pleasure in pulling a prank on someone who is asking for it! He was obviously daring me to say something about his height. Well I would deliver on that and not disappoint him. I just am curious; if I'm right, then how big with the blow up be? Here within lies one of the fun parts of teasing!

"So... vertically challenged."

"WHO ARE YOU CALLING SO SHORT THAT YOU COULD CRUSH HIM WITH YOUR BOOT!"

I managed to keep my reaction to just having my eyebrows rise at his reply. The magnitude that he had exploded over just three simple word meant to poke fun at his height was awesome! Oh boy, I think Maria's attempts of breaking me of teasing others just became voided! Teasing Edward Elric was clearly going to be almost as addicting as reading books and researching is for me! Those two activities are addictions I couldn't be broken of! Apparently he has a problem people insulting his height. This was going to bite him in the butt soon. If it hadn't already; I will be more than happy to make sure that happens relentlessly! I would assume it had bitten him in the rear already. Though I would say nowhere near hard enough for him to get the point… okay I might be using such reasoning to justify me drilling in the lack of height he had more, but works for me! Yet… the reaction was amusing to the point I can see the fun of teasing him. Still work before play. I got ahold of myself and turned to Mustang.

"Mustang you have my heartfelt condolences at having to watch this one. I don't envy you in that."

I envy the opportunity you have to tease him!

"You have no idea."

I looked hard at Mustang; then back to Fullmetal. OH I just can't resist teasing him once more! This is truly getting to be addicting!

"No, can't say I do and I really don't want to. Not if the circus around here is what I would have to deal with. I mean he is so short that I think I would lose him pretty quick. People should call him the 'Short' metal alchemist."

I heard the ring that signaled alchemy. That sound snapped me back to being completely serious; I have to be when alchemy is involved. I spun around to see Edward Elric had put his palms to the ground performing alchemy. Okay maybe I had gone a tad too far with the last comment, but this was overreacting to an extreme.

That previously mentioned court martial is sounding much more interesting right now! I could call one for Elric assaulting me a higher ranked officer to him by a few levels. Still I will make the decision later; first I need to diffuse the current situation.

I jumped out of the way of the earth hand that rose up to grab for me. I snapped my fingers and two side compartments on my rolling case that were on the sides popped out and handles shot upward out of the compartments. The holsters that were set into the compartments held my metal gauntlets that had transmutation circles on the top of the palms. Again I didn't really need them as I can do transmutations without circles due to going through the gate, but that wasn't common knowledge! I think it better to keep it that way in my opinion.

Elric started doing more alchemy, which I evaded by performing a handstand followed by me pressing my hands down then up to spring up into a backflip. As I was fully upside down in the flip, I slid my hands into the gauntlets and pulled them off the handles. I retrieved one of the silver colored Mythril rods from the back of my belt while I was still flipping towards the ground. The rods were strapped into loops so that I could access them at any time I needed. Why you may wonder I keep my Mythril rods easily accessible? Let me just say experience is a very good teacher! I landed back on my feet, with a Mythril rod in hand, ready to fight.

"FULLMETAL STOP THIS NOW!"

Little Edward didn't listen to Mustang, I would doubt by what I had observed that Edward Elric listens to Mustang often if at all. I clapped my hands, the circles on the gauntlets glowed as I did. The rod began to change shape, into a cutlass type sword. When the sword was finished, I spun the sword so that it pointed down at the ground. I plunged the blade into the floor beneath me; the circles on my gauntlets glowed again. Edward was out of control and it was time for that to end. It is all fun and game until someone gets hurt! Within seconds two Mythril blade shot out of the ground under Edward and came to a stop crossing right below his chin. Edward froze when this happened.

"Stand down Fullmetal Alchemist. You're out of control and you're putting your fellow soldiers in danger needlessly. You need to calm down now. Should you fail to comply, I will disable you by force, even if that means it puts you in the hospital for a time. I will personally make sure you are chained to the bed with chains that won't break by any means you possess; So you won't have a chance of escape for a long while. It is your choice, so what will it be?"

"You win."

Edward Elric said this nervously as he looked at the blades at his chin and stopped performing alchemy. The Mythril blades withdrew into the ground below and they retracted through the underground back me and reformed into the blade I had plunged into the floor under me.

I withdrew my sword and swung it around in a circular arc. This was a habit I had; I have no idea where or how I got it, but I did it without thinking now. I then, clapped my hands and transmuted the blade back to a rod. I stored the rod in the loop on the back on my belt. Okay I will need to keep firm control on the urge to tease the 'Short Metal' alchemist. I can't afford for it to get out of hand like that! Mustang was staring at me; I looked back at him with curiosity.

"You're an Alchemist."

Well like it isn't obvious with what just happened. Granted I am not in Central often so few know what I look like, but still. I sighed at Mustang's statement. I reached down to my right hip and grabbed my silver pocket watch and brought it out for all to see. There were many gasps from soldiers who had been watching. You would think they have never seen the silver pocket watch.

"Technically, yes I am a state alchemist. My title, given by the state is the 'Mythril Alchemist'."

Mustang stared in shock; Edward gaped stupidly, most of the other soldiers snapped to attention and saluted. Yet again my reputation precedes me! Most might not know what I look like, but they have heard of my alchemist title and have no doubt heard stories about me. 'Oh the can of worms I had just opened' as they say in the south. This was going to be tiresome, I could tell. So much for getting the file quick and leaving in little time at all; I had already spent more time here than I had planned to or wanted to either! This was another one of those times that being as famous as I have become over the last four years… really sucks!

"Could everyone stop being so stiff and shocked; this is getting awkward for me. I'm in the military just like the rest of you."

The soldiers started to whisper among themselves, no doubt about me. Though I have the rank of Brigadier General, most don't know that I am as young as I really am. Mustang walked up to me and extended his hand to me. It was to be polite to Mustang, that I took his hand and shook it.

"I must say it is an honor to me the Mythril Alchemist. I have read some of the reports on events you have been involved in. Your work is impressive."

So say pretty much everyone else too. The respect is nice and all, yet it is mostly attached to my title of the Mythril Alchemist. I shrugged my shoulders.

"So I am told by people. It is nice to meet the Flame Alchemist in person. I'm not one, if I may use the phrase, 'to toot my own horn'. I simply help those who need help. It is the way I am Mustang."

"So you really are a state alchemist then."

I turned to Edward Elric, who had spoken. I let out a long sigh and gave Edward a look that an adult would give a child who asks for what was just said to be repeated.

"I do believe that's what I said. Maybe you should have someone check your ears short stuff. They probably need to be cleaned out."

"WHO ARE YOU CALLING A RUNT SO TINY HE COULD ONLY BE SEEN WITH A MAGNIFYING GLASS, YOU JERK!?"

I was trying not to laugh. His responses were getting more hysterical as they came. I love this! I took a moment to calm myself and took a deep breath and let it out. I was about to give Edward Elric a retort when I heard two voices that were faint and behind me. I listened to identify the voices. If I had to guess the voices were in the other room.

"Major wait that is going too far."

That voice sounded like... Hughes?

"Nonsense Hughes, now witness the alchemy that has been passed down the Armstrong lines for generations!"

I only had time to think, 'Uh oh, this can't be good.'

An explosive crash came from the door behind us. There was thick a cloud of dust hanging in the air, causing everyone to have coughing fits. When the dust had cleared and settled I glanced to where the door to the outer parts of the outpost is, or at least where the door had been. Now there was a large hole in the doors place. In what had been previously a doorway stood Lieutenant Hughes looking disgruntled. Next to him was a large man that stood a couple of heads taller than Hughes. He had blue eyes and a single blond curl of hair. He had a mustache that was hard to miss. His face reminded me of someone I had gotten to know while Maria and I had been doing some work in the north. The person was one of the few who had my respect to any really extent; it was a woman by the name of Olivier Mira Armstrong. She had a rank one step high than mine, that wasn't the reason she had a bit of my respect. She had a way of commanding soldiers that I have yet to see anyone out do. Plus she had beaten me hands down; I admit it. She is one of the few who have. In short she could whip soldiers into shape in no time flat!

Back to the large man; the other fact about this guy was he was VERY muscularly built. He could give Martin a run for his money in the muscle department. I couldn't say if he could out do Sig. Now that I thought about Sig I wonder how Te... His wife is doing lately. Actually better not to think about that, the bad memories would start coming back about the times with her… *Shudder* scary things she did. Mustang looked at the large man with annoyance.

"Major Armstrong why did you make a hole in the wall?"

Armstrong?! Is it possible that he could be related to Olivier? Maybe, though it isn't the time to ask. This major Armstrong started to sweat as he saluted Mustang.

"I am sorry Colonel, my mistake."

I held my sides trying hard not to laugh at this. I failed and burst out laughing. This situation was completely stupid, so much so it was hysterical to me. Not only did I get to see and experience, not one but both of the examples I came up with randomly when Maria had asked me. It was just so funny, I couldn't stop laughing. I did not doubt that everyone in the room was probably staring at me wondering why I was laughing. After five minutes, I was able to calm down and stop laughing. I looked to Mustang and smiled.

"What a motley crew you have here Mustang, I would guess there is never a dull moment around here."

Mustang scratched the back of his head.

"I guess that is one way to put it."

It was at that point Hughes came forward. I don't know if he had recognized me yet, it had been two years after all. Yet with his memory, I would bet he hasn't forgotten me.

"Colonel here is the case file you asked for."

"Thanks Hughes, it is actually for him."

Mustang pointed at me as he said this. Hughes turned to me and looked at me. After a few seconds, Hughes eyes widen slightly and then a familiar gleam was in them. I swear that there were stars shining around his face, much like when he talks about his family. Oh boy, this was going to be a bit unpleasant, here we go. Hughes was instantly in front of me, took my right hand and began to shake it vigorously.

"If it isn't Matthew Selvess here in the flesh! I haven't seen you since you helped on the Vole case two years ago. Your work was superb. I have never seen anyone perform the same quality work as you did. I should have known that the higher ups would bring you in for this case. It is a pleasure to work with you again"

I smiled at Hughes. Hughes hasn't changed one single bit!

"It is nice to see you too Hughes. It looks like your wife, Gracia was exactly right that you talk up a storm still."

I went over to my rolling case and put my gauntlets back into side compartments. I then, quietly snapped my fingers and the side compartments closed. I went back over to Hughes, grabbed the file that Hughes had and bowed.

"It has been... Interesting to come here, to say the least. Still, I really need to be going. I need dinner and sleep so, I will be leaving now."

I grabbed my rolling case and started walking out of the room, but at the door I stopped and thought for a second. I then, turned and faced Edward Elric. I was unable to resist putting in the last word in the conversation.

"By the way, Elric you really need to learn to take or ignore insults, mini midget."

I left the room, however before I had exited the outpost I heard Edward's response and smiled, which was music to my ears.

"WHO ARE YOU CALLING SO SHORT YOU COULD USE HIM AS A FOOT STOOL!"

-Scene change-

The sun was starting to set as I got back to the hotel. I went up to the room and unlocked the door and enter. I closed the door quietly and let out a sigh.

"Peace and quiet at last. No Hughes running off his mouth. I like Hughes and all, it is just he needs to understand quiet isn't a bad thing to have. No midget trying to maim or kill me, that runt needs to learn how to take an insult, though poking fun at him is great fun. No other random stuff demanding my attention. I don't envy Mustang for having the position he does, too much random crap happening."

I slowly walked in and looked around until I caught a whiff of something cooking. I walked over to the kitchen area and spotted Maria cooking. I smiled at the sight.

"So, what is for dinner then?"

Maria turned to see me.

"Oh brother, you're back. You took a lot longer than you said you would."

I nodded.

"Yeah, I am sorry it took longer than I expected to get the item I was getting."

Maria studied me for a minute.

"Problems?"

I sighed in acknowledgment.

"Isn't there always, but why do I have to foretell the events somehow?"

"So I take that to me that you got to experience one of your examples you said, which example did you get to see?"

I shook my head.

"Oh if only it were one. No since it is me I got both."

Maria laughed at my statement. I smirked slightly.

"Glad at least one of us finds it amusing."

"I am sorry it is just..."

I waved a hand in dismissal.

"Yeah I know it has been this way for a while. Let's just drop this and have dinner and turn in for the night. I am dead tired from today's events."

chapter end

A/n

That is it for the moment. I admit I didn't originally did not plan to bring Ed and Al in yet, but why the hell not I say. I will say I enjoyed poking fun at Ed's height and will continue to do so for a while. I also wanted to show Matthew to be a bit more a people person. Thank you for reading and please take the time to review.