Lieutenant Colonel Roy Mustang stood at attention in the office of Fuhrer Bradley after he was requested for a meeting.
"At ease, Mustang. Now, what's the situation with that Elric boy? He's giving us quite the upset."
"He hasn't said anything one way or the other, but I suspect that he was tortured, possibly for information. It's no coincidence that a State Alchemist was beaten so severely in his own barracks. This is a message, I just don't know who it's for."
The Fuhrer nodded thoughtfully. "I see. And there's no way to tell who did this, let alone why or how, without him telling us everything?"
"I highly doubt it. Unless his attacker comes forward, there's little we can do."
The leader nodded again, pacing. "Then I so no other choice than to force an explanation."
"Sir?"
"If he refuses to speak on his own, then we'll have to make him tell us exactly what happened. I understand it's a matter of security. We can't have a belligerent traitor in our midst and let him hurt anybody he likes as long as the boy doesn't feel like sharing. We have to know the situation immediately or risk lives."
"But Fuhrer, he's just a boy, he's been through-"
"What has he been through? There's no way to know! All we know is that he was tortured and is unwilling to tell us anything. It's his duty to serve and protect; if Edward Elric refuses to help, he is committing treason and I have the right to force him to do as much. Not to mention the penalty for such a crime against the state."
"Sir, all due respect, that's not necessary."
"I think it's absolutely necessary. This could be sabotage, espionage, an act of war! It is a high crime to attack a State Alchemist, especially to this degree."
"So you'll punish himfor it?"
"Don't be so naïve, Lieutenant Colonel, you know that this is the right move, no matter how unsavory. Carry out the order."
"I can make him talk, we don't have to pull that card just yet. Let me talk to him first. If he won't explain, I'll leave it to your discretion."
"I've made my choice. Do what you will, but we have a timetable. If you fail, I'll be forced to act accordingly. You are dismissed."
The Lieutenant Colonel saluted and exited the Fuhrer's office, brows drawn and frown set in concern. This was a messy situation and it was his responsibility to solve it before it got out of hand.