A/N: Hi! :)
Finally our third protagonist will make his apparition :D We hope that you enjoy this chapter and, please, don't hesitate to leave a review. We'd love to read your opinions, suggestions and/or hypotheses.
See you in two weeks!
Golden and Flame
Disclaimer: Fullmetal Alchemist characters don't belong to us. We are just having fun with them.
Chapter 7. Coincidences
Life in East City had been going on smoothly. The Ishval war had left an important mark on the population, but the more days passed, the more it seemed that the population had forgotten the conflict that had taken place only a couple of years ago.
The work in the Eastern Headquarters had been relatively quiet. Rarely was the intervention of a military officer requested in any of the population's problems, and it fell mostly on the police. However, this did not reduce the immense amount of paperwork that arrived at the different offices of the headquarters. It seemed that the slightest movement that wanted to be made in the city and in the command required a laborious process of several steps. Lieutenant Colonel Roy Mustang's office was no exception.
The members of 'The Mustang Team', as they had begun to be recognized within the command, had integrated very well and were becoming valuable elements of the military. They were always willing to attend to any mission assigned to them, no matter how minor, and somehow managed to turn in their assigned paperwork within the established deadlines. Well, 'that somehow' had a first and last name: Riza Hawkeye.
Riza had begun to earn a reputation as something close to a babysitter for Lieutenant Colonel Mustang, but the truth was that her other colleagues in the unit also tended to require little 'friendly' reminders every so often about the work they were supposed to be doing. Although none of them were as good at evading paperwork (and surprisingly dodging numerous bullets) as Roy Mustang.
That was on the strictly professional side but the truth was that Roy and Riza's relationship had too much backstory that none of their peers could finish imagining how complex their bond was. It had taken time but their relationship had improved considerably, so much so that even outside of work they could be categorized as friends, friends who care deeply about each other. The tensions they had felt between themselves during the first few months of working together had dissipated and, although at the time of making Riza promise to help him stay on the right path he had no doubt that they would both look out for each other's welfare, Roy could now tell himself that Riza was more committed than ever to support him and push him towards his goal.
Currently Roy and Riza could manage to occasionally exchange a few friendly smiles during their work but it never came to anything more. The anti-fraternization law was a constant reminder of how terrible it would be to give in to his wishes but, honestly that wasn't the main reason. Now they both knew each other deeply and trusted each other completely but even though the wounds from past mistakes had healed, they had left scars on their hearts.
Roy loved Riza and Riza loved him. They hadn't told each other but they didn't need to, each of them had the impression that this was the reality when they got to be alone and their gazes met. But their gazes and their personal desires had no place in the present. They were both committed to the goal they aspired to reach so they could not jeopardize how far or how little they had come in the last few years.
Certainly they had had some moments of fragility when they required a hug from each other to encourage themselves to move forward. The thought of their son and the future they could not share together being the main protagonists of their melancholy. When those moments came, a simple look was enough to let the other know what was going through their minds because, despite the problems and difficulties they had had in the beginning, each one was the person who could understand what the other felt since they shared the same pain.
However, there were small details that managed to go unnoticed by Roy, details of which he did not understand their depth. For example, seeing a small yellow blanket or hearing about a person named Edward was enough to bring back old memories for Riza. That was why Riza couldn't help but crack a small nostalgic smile when Lieutenant Colonel Mustang told her about the report he had gotten.
Arching an eyebrow Roy asked her. "Is something wrong, Second Lieutenant?"
Pushing the memories away and returning to her professional expression Riza replied. "No, it's nothing, Sir." Roy had never asked her about her son's name. Riza guessed Roy doubted she had given him a name because of the short time she had had him with her, so Riza preferred not to clarify. She knew firsthand how the mention of that name could unleash a thousand sensations in her. "Should I go buy the train tickets, sir?"
"I'd appreciate it, Second Lieutenant. If this report is correct it could mean a good chance to score a few points with those in the high command."
"Agreed, Sir." After making the military salute, Riza left the office and headed out to fulfill the assignment.
They both left the next morning. As Roy had mentioned to her it was a good opportunity so they had to hurry to meet the Elric alchemists. During the trip they chatted occasionally but always maintaining the necessary formalities.
Arriving at their destination, Roy got off the train and surveyed his surroundings, noting the large amount of vegetation and the scarcity of large buildings. "A curious place for a pair of alchemists like the Elric's." He sighed. "I hope that they truly their skills are as good as they describe them."
Coming up beside him Riza commented. "Well this would explain why the military has had no contact with them. Besides it seems like a very welcoming place to me, don't you think, Sir?"
"I agree with you, Second Lieutenant." Roy swept his eyes over the roads within reach and sighed with a smile. "Only I think we're in for a long walk. I hope the Elric's house isn't that far away."
"Don't worry, sir. I've already arranged for our transportation. One of the policemen at the station will take us to the Elric house."
"Perfect, Second Lieutenant."
Taking the lead, Riza guided Roy to the station exit where they were met by a somewhat older policeman who greeted them politely and then motioned for them to follow him to a wagon. After helping Riza up, Roy sat down and began to look at the scenery. A few minutes passed in silence until the policeman began to speak.
"I apologize for the bumpy ride, but out here in the country automobiles are rare."
Roy replied. "That's all right. This has its own charm."
"So...what brings you to the Elric home, Lieutenant Colonel Mustang?"
Pulling out of his coat the report he had received the day before, Roy replied. "I've heard reports of two brothers with a talent for alchemy so I came to meet them for myself."
"I see. So you are recruiting new state alchemists, are you?" The policeman turned to look over his shoulder at Roy and at the military man's nod continued. "But why send a military man of your rank from the Eastern command?"
"Finding and recruiting talented alchemists is part of my job." Roy sighed and closed his eyes. "To be honest, with all the losses we had in the civil war we need all the new recruits we can get."
The cop laughed lightly and replied. "I can't wait to see the look on those kids' faces when they see a high-ranking officer standing at their door."
Roy kept his eyes closed for a few moments processing what the cop had just said until he opened them and frowned. "Did you say children?"
"Yes, sir."
Roy brought the report close to his face and read it again until he got to the part that interested him. "Right here it says... town of Resembool, Edward Elric, age 31..."
Before he could continue his reading the policeman interrupted him, "No, sir. He is 11 years old. His brother is a year younger."
Not wanting to believe the strange turn his little recruiting trip had taken he began to reread the report as he asked Riza. "What does this mean, Second Lieutenant?"
Riza gave a small sigh and answered him. "It could be that this document came through a time vortex, or that someone made a serious mistake."
The policeman laughed lightly again. "Why don't you meet them before you make a decision?"
Putting the report back in his sack and exhaling a big sigh Roy replied. "All right. Let's get on with the trip."
Roy and Riza remained silent for the rest of the ride as they watched the scenery around them. At some point the policeman began to whistle as he waved to the people they encountered along the way. A few more minutes passed in this way until they stopped at a two-story white house.
Roy helped Riza down the road and then walked over to the front door to knock a couple of times and subsequently opened it immediately (which earned him a disapproving look from Riza). "Anybody home?"
"I'll check the back of the house." Mentioned the policeman from outside the house before parting ways with Roy.
Riza lingered for a few moments contemplating the front of the house. The house had a rustic look like the others in town but at the same time looked very cozy. Also, the swing hanging from the tree to the left of the house gave it a more cheerful feel because that swing reminded her that a couple of children lived in that house so she couldn't help but smile slightly before stepping into the house.
Upon entering the house, the first thing that puzzled Riza was the somewhat unkempt appearance of the house. A light layer of dust covered the furniture and a trail of brown stains could be seen from the entrance to one of the doors that probably led to the basement. Even, taking a quick glance, Riza noticed that on the kitchen table there were a few fruits in a clear state of rotting.
Feeling some concern for the conditions in which these children were living Riza followed the trail of brown stains, but before reaching the door leading to the basement a picture resting on a shelf caught her attention. Unable to help her curiosity Riza picked up the photo and felt her breath catch for a moment.
Maybe the quality wasn't the best but in the picture she could clearly see two pairs of golden eyes looking into the camera. Golden... Riza hadn't seen that color of eyes for several years. Reaching a finger closer Riza ran a finger across the smiling faces of both children. She knew that one of them was named Edward and now she saw that he had golden eyes. He was also a boy of only 11 years old...
Stop it, Riza. Be realistic. You lost your son in the North. What would he be doing in a small town practically on the other side of the country? Besides, his father's name is Van Hohenheim and these kids have the last name Elric. Heeding her thoughts Riza returned the photograph to its place and lightly patted her cheeks to focus before continuing on her way to the basement.
Upon entering the basement Riza could perceive that the brown stains were larger and more frequent on the walls. She didn't want to believe it at first but now she was sure...it was blood. Seeing how Roy had stood in front of what appeared to be a transmutation circle as he checked a vial, Riza slowly approached his side and voiced her thought. "Sir, these are bloodstains."
Before Roy could comment on that, footsteps were heard approaching, giving way to the policeman who had led them there. "They're not in the back either, Lieutenant Colonel. Maybe they-"
Roy interrupted him abruptly. "Where are they?!"
At Roy's abrupt intervention, the policeman could only utter a feeble Huh?
Without even looking at him Roy repeated his question. "Where are the Elric brothers?!"
A little flustered by Roy's poorly disguised fury the policeman answered him. "W-well as I was saying, if they're not here they probably must be with the Rocksbells."
Roy quickly walked out followed by Riza who stopped for a moment in front of the cop and placed one of her hands on his shoulder. "Excuse him, could you give us a ride, please?"
The policeman nodded and followed Riza.
The ride to the Rockbell's house went very quickly but this time Roy seemed to be too impatient to reach his destination. The constant tapping with one of his feet and the accompanying scowl told Riza that something was very wrong. She didn't know much about alchemy so she couldn't decipher the type of circle that lay in the basement but the large amount of blood spilled in the center of it and the walls had given her a bad feeling.
The wagon stopped at a two-story yellow house with a sign out front that read 'Automail Rockbell'. Roy and Riza quickly got off their transport. Riza stood a little apart along with the policeman, who was trying to control a black dog with an automail front paw that had started barking as soon as they approached. Roy, on the other hand, was standing in front of the front door, practically pounding on it.
An older person's voice boomed out. "I'm coming." Roy decided to stop pounding on the door but one of his feet began to tap the floor as a sign of his anxiety.
Shortly thereafter a noise was heard indicating that the door lock was being removed. "All right, Den. Stop your fussing, do we have visitors?" As she finished her question the old woman had begun to open the door.
Without a second's hesitation Roy entered the house pushing the old woman aside with one of his arms. "Excuse me, Mrs. Rockbell."
Clearly annoyed by Roy's intrusion, the old woman replied almost shouting at him. "What the hell is going on?! Who are you?!"
Roy ignored her as she surveyed the house and walked towards a room that appeared to be the kitchen but Riza, having seen Roy's frantic attitude, had entered the house so she tried to control the woman. "We are very sorry. We're looking for the Elric brothers. We knew they might be here."
While Riza was apologizing to the old woman, Roy was taking a look around the house until his eyes came across something in a somewhat darkened corner of the dining room. In front of a gaudy suit of armor was a wheelchair and in that chair was a blond boy with a forlorn expression on his face.
Ignoring the boy's expression and driven by his own adrenaline, Roy advanced to the wheelchair and grabbed the boy by the front of his long sleeved shirt lifting him up on the spot to begin pulling him closer to his face. Letting the fury he had felt at the realization that the circle that was in the basement of the Elric's house was for human transmutation, Roy began to yell at him. "I was in your house! What the hell did you do?! What did you create?!"
At his words the boy's gaze became even more desolate and filled with something Roy associated with regret. Just as Roy focused directly on his gaze, the boy closed his eyes and averted his gaze denoting in his gestures that he was trying to control the crying. In the small instant before the boy closed his eyes something stood out in Roy's mind. The boy had golden eyes... just like his son. Involuntarily, when the child had averted his gaze, Roy loosened his grip slightly and something inside him tightened his chest.
To Roy's surprise the armor moved and placed one of its hands on the arm of Roy that was holding the child. "I'm sorry. Please forgive us." Roy pushed the memory of his son away and lifted his gaze to the armor helmet. Certainly the use of armor was not so common nowadays but what really puzzled him was the very sweet, fragile and childlike voice coming from it. "I'm sorry... I'm sorry..." Roy continued to look at the armor, at the same time the armor shook slightly as it apologized.
Roy returned the boy to his chair then sighed and ran a hand over his face. "Second Lieutenant."
"Yes, Sir?"
Feeling a slight shiver, Roy pulled his hand away from his face to search Riza's gaze and yes, indeed, she was looking at him with disapproval and annoyance at what he had done. Knowing that now was not the time to talk about his own actions, Roy said to her. "Wait outside, please."
Maintaining her professional appearance Riza replied. "All right, sir." And then she left the room.
Approaching the table Roy addressed the old woman. "If I may, I would like to talk about what happened with the Elric brothers."
The old woman snorted and approached the table muttering Damn military men. At the same time, Roy shot a glance at the armor for both him and his brother to approach the table.
Reluctantly, Mrs. Rockbell told Roy what had happened with occasional interventions from the armor to clarify some more specifics about what he and his brother had done. Just as he had suspected this pair of children had broken alchemy's greatest taboo: they had attempted to perform a human transmutation.
During the talk, Roy's gaze drifted occasionally to the blond boy. There was something about him that piqued his curiosity. It was probably the fact that he had golden eyes like his own son, although at the moment Edward Elric's eyes seemed cloudy, almost lifeless. Besides, despite Roy's occasional glances at him, the boy never looked up.
When the old woman and the armor finished with the story, Roy placed his elbows on the table and interlaced his fingers. "Before coming all the way to Resembool it was my understanding that the Elric brothers were 31 and 30 years old so I was coming to make them an offer to recruit them for the state alchemist program. Upon learning of their age I thought this trip would end up being a waste of time but now I see that is not the case."
Annoyed by his offer the old woman retorted. "What are you saying?!"
Roy held up a hand to ask her to be quiet before interlocking his fingers again. "Full funds for all your works. Unlimited access to classified reference material. The best government research facilities and equipment at your disposal. These are some of the privileges these children would be granted as state alchemists. Of course, in return they have to pledge loyalty and obey orders... but they will have the ability to conduct investigations that would be impossible for an ordinary citizen. They might even find a way to recover their original bodies."
At his words the armor commented. "But I thought the alchemists' slogan was that 'Alchemists work for the people'..."
Looking at him Roy replied. "Right. State alchemists aren't called 'dogs of the military' for nothing."
Trying to control her temper the old woman asked. "Do you think these kids have what it takes to pass the exam?"
"The transmutation circle in the Elric's house, their knowledge about human transmutation, not to mention that they were able to transmute a soul... All these things have convinced me without a doubt."
The old woman lit a small brown pipe before speaking. "Lieutenant Colonel Mustang... After this child came here crawling and covered in blood, do you know what I did?" She took a puff on her pipe and expelled it before continuing. "I went to his house and buried that thing in the backyard. That thing...That thing wasn't human! Alchemy created that monstrosity! Alchemy took the bodies of these children! And you! You want them to do more of that?! Is that what you want them to do with their lives?!"
"Mrs. Rockbell, I am not forcing these children to do anything. I'm just offering them a chance." Diverting his gaze to the blond boy Roy continued. "You can choose to live out the rest of your days as a self-pitying cripple with a suit of armor for a brother... or you can make a real contribution to alchemy by allying with the militia and thus find a way to return their bodies... The choice is up to you. Both of you. If there is a chance, you should move forward and get your bodies back, even if the road ahead is a river of mud." Roy stared at the boy waiting for a response from him. The boy did not look up but Roy was able to get a glimpse of his eyes. Feeling that he had done his part, he rose from his chair. "That's all I have to say for the moment. If you'll excuse me..." Roy pulled a letter and a card from his pocket and walked over to the armor to hand them to him. "If you decide to enlist come to Eastern Command. My offer remains open."
As Roy spoke to the Elrics, Riza remained seated in an armchair in the living room. She knew what Roy was about to do but wasn't sure how good an idea it was. They were just kids, how could he think of recruiting them into the military? Besides... the way he treated the boy in the wheelchair... Riza didn't fully understand the magnitude of what the Elrics had done but Roy had been very abrupt. Riza would have to talk to him or rather scold him, as she did not approve of what he had done.
Thinking about the boy... Riza couldn't believe it. If her eyesight hadn't deceived her, the child didn't have an arm and a leg. Plus the bandages peeking out from under his T-shirt indicated that at least the arm thing was relatively recent. Did it have something to do with the transmutation circle they found in his basement? Riza felt bad for him, his golden eyes looked so dull that she wasn't sure if he could recover from whatever had happened. The thought of such a small child having that kind of look broke her heart, if her son was the one in that condition...
Riza's thoughts were interrupted when a blue-eyed blonde girl approached her with a tray of two steaming cups of tea. "Would you like some tea?"
"Oh, thank you."
The girl handed her a cup and silently sat down next to her on the couch.
Riza took a sip from her cup as the girl seemed to be debating on something.
"Um... Lieutenant...?"
"Just call me Riza. Riza Hawkeye." Smiling kindly she extended a hand to the girl. "Nice to meet you."
To Riza's surprise, the girl's expression turned somewhat sad and she just stared at her hand before speaking. "Miss Riza, have you shot a person?"
The question puzzled Riza, so she closed her hand into a fist and stared at it as some memories of Ishval's war came to her mind. "Yes. Many times."
The girl shifted her gaze to the front and continued. "I don't like soldiers. My mom and dad were killed when the soldiers took them to the battlefield. And now that man named Roy Mustang is trying to take Ed and Al away. I don't want them to become soldiers... Please don't take them away..."
Riza felt sad for the girl. She herself had lost her mother when she was little. Certainly her father had not been very attentive but at least she had him when her mother died. This little girl didn't look any older than 12 and had already been without her parents for a couple of years. Riza understood her sadness and fear of being taken away from the people she loves so she closed her eyes and answered her. "We will not take them with us by force. The decision is for them to make." Opening her eyes and directing a sympathetic smile at her she continued. "To be honest I don't like being a soldier either knowing that if the situation calls for it I have to be prepared to take a life."
Riza took another sip of her tea as the girl asked. "Then why are you in the military?"
Filling her mind with images of Roy and her son, Riza replied. "Because there's someone I need to protect." Closing her eyes to remember she added. "It's not something I'm forced to do. It's something I decided for myself. I will pull the trigger of my own free will because I need to keep that person safe. Until the day that person reaches their goal I will pull the trigger without hesitation... If these children have a strong will, they will know the right place for them."
The girl seemed surprised by her words but before she could say anything the door to the dining room opened to make way for Roy. "Let's go."
"Yes, sir."
Riza set the cup down on the tray that sat on the couch and stood up as she grabbed her coat and headed towards the girl. "See you later."
The girl raised her right hand and replied. "My name...is Winry."
Smiling Riza answered her. "I see. Okay, Winry." She shook her hand. "I hope to see you again."
When they were in the wagon and a little away from the Rockbells house, Riza couldn't help but ask. "Do you think those children will come?"
With a smile and contemplating the scenery, Roy answered her. "They will come."
" You''re very confident. Judging by the look in that kid's eyes, I wouldn't be so sure."
Without removing the smile from his face Roy said. "You think so? I saw eyes that burned like fire."
Pinako stood in the doorway watching the wagon drove off down the road as he smoked his pipe. He couldn't believe that the militia would dare invite a couple of kids to enlist in the militia! First they break into their home first thing in the morning and then they seek to take these children away from their village and the people who know them.
"Granny? What's wrong?"
Pinako looked away from the wagon to look at her granddaughter. "Nothing, Winry. It's just that I'm amazed at the guts those military men have to trespass on private property and seek to take some children with them."
With a slightly sad look Winry answered her. "It's Ed and Al's decision..." Changing her expression to a more relaxed one she added. "At least the Lieutenant seems like a nice person."
Sighing and closing the door Pinako asked her. "Did you talk to her?"
"Yes, we talked a bit. She told me her name and why she's in the army."
"That scoundrel Lieutenant Colonel didn't even tell us her name. I'm even beginning to think that maybe he didn't even put his name on the letter he delivered to Al. Although that would be good for Ed and Al to have no means of contacting them." She sighed. "Anyway, at least it looks like his assistant has a little more manners. So, what's her name?"
"Riza Hawkeye."
The pipe dropped from Pinako's mouth.
"Granny?"
Pinako hurried to open the door ignoring her granddaughter's question but by then the wagon had already disappeared down the road.
Winry picked up the pipe and handed it to her grandmother. "Granny are you all right?"
Pinako closed the door again and tried to control her expression. "Yes, my girl, why don't you go see if Ed needs anything? I'll go change so we can start getting breakfast ready."
Somewhat unsure Winry nodded and headed for the dining room.
Riza Hawkeye, she's young, has blonde hair like Ed and works in the military. No doubt about it. It must be her. Pinako snorted. That's how she intends to take care of her son? By taking him to the military with her? She didn't even stop her boss when he yelled at her own son! Damn military!
Pinako's annoyance only increased when Al allowed her to read the letter the Lieutenant Colonel handed him and discovered that his name was Roy Mustang. She could not be as sure as in Riza's case, since Trisha had only mentioned Roy's first name but not his last name. But if those two were working together it was a strong possibility. Damn them!
Roy and Riza boarded the last train of the morning at Resembool station. Luckily there didn't seem to be much movement at that hour so they were able to use a private compartment somewhat away from those already occupied. After the train got underway and one of the train workers checked their tickets, Riza decided to start the conversation.
"Sir."
"What's wrong, Riza?"
Knowing that Roy occasionally liked to forget formalities, Riza took a quick glance down the aisle to keep an eye out for people nearby and continued. "What you did with the boy..."
Raising his hands in defense Roy interrupted her, "I know, I know. Maybe I overreacted a little." At the hard look Riza gave him, Roy corrected himself. "Ok fine, I overdid it."
"And?"
"I'm sorry?"
Taking care not to raise her voice too high in volume but seeking to denote her annoyance Riza answered him. "Roy! He's just a kid."
"A kid who broke one of the biggest taboos in alchemy."
Quickly the 3 fundamental rules that state alchemists had to follow and the amount of blood she had seen popped into Riza's mind. Did he... create a human?
"Not successfully but something relatively close. Edward and Alphonse Elric attempted a human transmutation." Roy exhaled heavily. "You know perfectly well that's something you're always inculcated not to carry out when you study alchemy." Roy lowered his voice. "I still remember the way your father did it when I was his apprentice, he told me that if the transmutation itself didn't kill me, he would see to it. Unfortunately, apparently that pair of kids didn't have such a threat to reconsider their decision."
Riza put a hand to her mouth to stifle her exclamation of surprise. To think that two such young children had attempted a human transmutation was inconceivable. "Why? They're so little... Where are their parents?"
Roy looked at her with a sort of sadness and somewhat reluctantly replied. "Their father abandoned them a few years ago and a year later their mother died. They were trying to bring their mother back to life."
At that moment Riza understood Roy's look. She knew that, although different circumstances, it was enough to remind her of her own history with their son.
Trying to push the memories of her own son away and swallowing saliva Riza asked. "Is the boy who was in the armor related to the transmutation?"
Roy sighed. "Yes, besides he's not just in the armor. He is the armor." At Riza's confused face he continued. "When they tried to do the transmutation Edward and Alphonse suffered a rebound. Edward lost his left leg and Alphonse his whole body." Riza's eyes grew wide. "Somehow Edward managed to attach Alphonse's soul to the armor in exchange for his right arm."
This time Riza brought both hands to her mouth. "My God... they're so small, they shouldn't have had to go through that hell."
Roy crossed his arms. "No, they shouldn't have. But now they must right their wrong."
Riza pulled her hands away from her mouth and stared at Roy. "Roy, I see your point, it's a good opportunity to get the information and resources they need but do you really think it's the best path for them to take? The military isn't exactly the best place for a couple of kids."
"It may not be a pleasant experience but I know they can do it. Believe me, the look in that kid's eyes was full of determination."
"From what you've told me, I don't doubt their abilities or their determination, Roy. I worry about the army destroying them from the inside. What will happen if a war breaks out and they are summoned?"
"That's why I couldn't allow someone else to invite them into the state alchemist program." Roy's gaze became completely serious and determined. "I couldn't allow any other unscrupulous military to discover them. I'm not going to be able to protect them from all the dangers that may be within the military but I will do everything in my power to make sure they don't have to get their hands dirty like we did." Roy lightly touched one of Riza's hands. "They deserve a chance to right their wrong."
Riza gave him a slight smile at his resolve and determination. Her initial behavior with the boy had been terrible but she was pleasantly surprised at how quickly Roy had set out to do everything in his power to help those brothers. "You're right."
Roy smiled back and added as he withdrew his hand and placed it on his chin. "Besides, their joining to the military can make me look very good in front of the higher ups. I might even get a promotion. It's a win win."
Riza sighed but didn't remove the smile from her face. "Always seeing opportunities all around you, sir."
"That's my job, Second Lieutenant."
Wiping her smile for a moment to give way to a serious expression, Riza said. "Though I must tell you that I have not forgotten your behavior upon entering the Rockbell home. I hope you're prepared for all the extra work you'll have to do in the office when we return." She concluded as she patted her holster.
Roy immediately understood the consequences he would face if he didn't accept his punishment, so he sighed. "All right. I guess I really deserve it." Roy said as he watched her intently.
"Fine."
They both remained for a few seconds staring at each other until, almost synchronously, they each averted their gazes. Riza pulled out a small book she was carrying and Roy decided to lose himself in the changing scenery through the window of his compartment. The image of the boy's golden eyes had burned itself into his mind, so helplessly the name of his lieutenant slipped past his lips. "Riza?"
Riza looked up from her book as she answered. "Yes?"
Roy fixed his gaze on hers. She seemed to be concentrating on what she had read, probably to distract herself from the worry and sadness that the Elrics situation had caused her, which were still reflected in a slight wrinkle forming at the edge of her eyes. Internally debating for a few seconds, Roy decided not to broach the subject. "Forget it. I think I'll take a nap."
Not wanting Riza to analyze in detail on his expression, Roy crossed his arms and immediately closed his eyes seeking to get some sleep to push away the thoughts that had been plaguing him since they left the Rockbell home. A small part of him naively hoped that maybe that child was his own son, which caused him mixed feelings: joy to find him but too much guilt to see what he had been through and what he had lost. If only he had been there to guide him... But his rational side overlapped to tell him not to be foolish. He was not his son. He was a child who shared certain traits and who had had the misfortune to go through hell at such a young age. Besides, he didn't want to delude Riza with the false hope that Edward Elric might be their son when the only 'clue' he had was the similarity in the color of their eyes and hair. How many blond children weren't there in Amestris? Besides how could he hope that fate itself would help them find their son again out of the blue when they were both murderers with blood on their hands? If Riza, who was the one who had actually spent time with his son, had shown no signs of recognition then Roy had no reason to draw his own conclusions. Roy couldn't do that to Riza. He didn't want to make her suffer again.
What Roy didn't know was that at those very moments Riza was also having a difficult time trying to push the picture of the Elrics and the memory of the boy in the wheelchair out of her memory, while at the same time trying to extinguish the small flame of hope that wanted to take hold of her heart. Her own mind was playing a big part in discouraging her from the idea, but that stubborn flame did not want to be extinguished. What Roy had interpreted as wrinkles of concern and sadness for the Elrics, was actually a combination of that along with the internal debate that Riza had to endure all the way back to East City, and even still up to a couple of weeks after that visit to Resembool.
A year after that trip to Resembool, the Mustang Team was working quietly in their office when a soldier knocked on their office door.
Fuery opened the door ushering in a soldier of average height and blond hair. "Good morning." He performed the military salute. "Colonel Mustang has a visitor."
Riza got up from her desk and walked over to the Colonel's inner office to point out the soldier's message. Once the Colonel came out of his office and stood in front of the soldier he asked. "Who is he and where is he?"
"He's at the entrance, sir. The guards wouldn't let him in because it's a child. He says his name is Edward Elric."
A smile appeared on Roy's lips. "Very well, soldier. You are dismissed."
The soldier withdrew and all the team members stared at him curiously but Roy ignored them. "Second Lieutenant Hawkeye, come with me."
"Yes, sir."
Roy and Riza walked silently through the quarters until they reached the command entrance, where at the bottom of the stairs a boy with a small blond braid was waiting for them, his hands were in his pockets and he was dressed in black clothes and a red jacket. A brown suitcase rested beside him.
Stopping halfway up the stairs Roy waited for the boy to speak.
"Hey, Lieutenant Colonel."
With an expressionless face Roy answered him. "I was promoted to Colonel while you were slow to make up your mind." The boy frowned. "Are you sure you want to do this?"
With a defiant look the boy replied. "Of course. Do you want me to wag my tail too?"
Roy couldn't help but smile. "All right, then we're off to Central." He turned to look at Riza. "Second Lieutenant, call Central and inform them of the situation."
"Yes, sir."
After Riza made the call and Roy gathered his things, the three of them were taken to the train station in a military car. To Edward's surprise neither the Colonel nor the Lieutenant said anything to him so he preferred to observe the buildings on the way. As for Roy, he kept his eyes straight ahead while Riza mimicked him although she couldn't help casting occasional glances at the boy traveling with them.
As soon as they were in their compartment Ed took off his coat and pulled a book out of his suitcase to begin reading it. After a few minutes of silence had passed, Roy averted his gaze from the window and focused on Edward's right arm, catching a glimpse of a metallic sheen.
"So automail huh." Roy waited a few seconds for a response from the boy but the boy didn't seem to hear him. His eyes kept gliding over the pages of the book, so when he turned the page Roy opted to close the book to get his attention.
"Hey!"
"I was talking to you."
Ed glared at him. "And I was reading."
Speaking sarcastically Roy told him. "Really? How did I not notice?"
"Maybe it's your age. Eyesight tends to wear out with age."
Roy felt a vein swell in his forehead. "Tell me, brat. How old do you think I am?"
Somewhat annoyed but without a moment's thought Ed answered him. "Surely fifty or more."
With a tone of surprise and annoyance he told him. "¡¿50?! For your information I'm 32. I don't even have a damn gray hair for you to think I'm older!"
At Roy's annoyance, Ed couldn't help but smile. "Really? You're not in a state of denial? As far as I know, in the big cities there's something called hair dye."
Seeing how Roy was about to retort, Riza interjected. "Sir, you are drawing too much attention to yourself. Remember, you and I are the adults here."
At Roy's puzzled expression at what Riza had just said, Ed chuckled lightly and Roy gave the blond a stern look before Riza spoke again in a kind voice. "Edward." The boy turned his gaze to her. "What the Colonel wanted to ask you a moment ago was about your arm, is it an automail?"
Taking a quick glance at the space on his arm that was exposed between his glove and jacket, Ed answered. "Yes."
Trying to forget their little tiff Roy interjected. "Leg too?"
Ed nodded.
With a concerned tone Riza told him. "But I understand the procedure is very painful."
Ed shrugged. "It was the best option. With the automail I can move easily."
Noticing that Ed surely didn't want to talk about it anymore, Riza asked him. "What about your brother? Why didn't he come with you?"
"I managed to convince him to stay in Resembool to spend time with Granny Pinako and Winry. Me joining the army is more than enough."
With a smug smile Roy told him. "Wow, so you're sure you're going to pass the exam then?"
Raising a fist Ed replied. "Of course!"
Roy's smile turned into one of satisfaction. There was the fire he had noticed in his eyes a year ago. His golden gaze was full of determination and, inexplicably, it filled him with pride.
The conversation ended at that instant and they each went about passing the time in their own way. After an hour passed, Riza got up from her seat and left the compartment returning shortly after with a tray of food.
Thanking his Lieutenant, Roy took the sandwich and coffee Riza offered him, later helping her place her own breakfast in her seat.
Being so focused on his book, Ed didn't notice movement in the compartment until Riza lightly shook his shoulder. At that moment Ed lowered his book and looked up.
"Here, Edward." Riza told him kindly.
Pushing the book aside to take the sandwich and bottle Riza offered him, Ed thanked her. "Thanks."
With a smile Riza returned to her seat and as she was about to unwrap her sandwich she noticed Edward push the food aside for a moment to slip one of his hands into his pocket.
"What's wrong, Edward?"
"How much do I owe you?"
Stretching out one of his hands to place it on the boy's knee Riza replied with a smile. "Nothing."
"But..."
"It's nothing, Edward. I bet you're starving."
Smiling shyly Ed thanked her again and began to unwrap his sandwich to start eating it.
After a few minutes the three of them finished eating but something caught Roy's attention. Ed hadn't taken a single swig from his milk bottle and was holding it to the side of him, looking at it as if it had offended him personally.
"Hey, kid." Ed turned to look at him. "Why don't you drink your milk?"
Ed averted his gaze and muttered. "I don't like milk."
"But milk is good for you, Edward." Riza said.
"Unless of course you don't want to grow up." Roy added.
The boy frowned and looked at Roy again. "What are you implying?"
Noticing the boy's threatening tone, Roy smiled. "Are you sensitive about your height?" Roy noticed how the boy's hands, which were on his knees, turned into fists, so he ventured to add. "Or rather with regard to the shortness of it?"
As if Roy had flipped a switch in the boy, the child rose from the seat with his fists in the air. "Who are you calling so small that you need a microscope to see it?!"
Roy and Riza looked at his reaction somewhat puzzled but Roy quickly composed himself and his smile widened. Knowing what he was going to do, Riza put her arm between them. "Edward, the Colonel didn't say anything of the sort. Sorry, I didn't know you didn't like milk. I insist that you should drink it but I'm not going to force you. If you want I can go and exchange it for something else."
Somewhat embarrassed Ed scratched the back of his neck. "Don't worry. I appreciate the breakfast but if you don't mind I'd like to go change it."
Riza smiled at him. "Are you sure you don't want me to go?"
Ed took the bottle of milk. "Thanks but I'll go. I need to walk, these seats are very uncomfortable." With that said he walked out of the compartment.
Roy crossed his arms without removing the smile that had appeared on his face. "He's an interesting kid."
"Yeah, plus you can tell he's got a strong personality." Riza turned to look at Roy. " You shouldn't provoke him, Sir."
"Come on, Lieutenant. We could say I just tickled him a little."
"You might as well have said Edward just tickled you a little earlier."
Roy's smile disappeared and he looked at her reproachfully. "Lieutenant..."
Riza ignored him and looked out the window. "Looks like we're getting there, Sir."
As they descended from the train it didn't take long to find the military man who would take them to Central Command. Roy sat in the front seat while Riza and Edward shared the back seat. During the ride, Riza couldn't help but smile warmly at the boy. Although he didn't show it overtly, it was easy to tell that Edward was in awe of the big city. Whenever they passed an eye-catching building, a fancy restaurant or some store Ed wouldn't take his eyes off them until they disappeared from his field of vision.
Once they arrived at Central Command, the three of them checked in at the front desk and Riza went ahead towards the State Alchemist program office. Shortly thereafter she returned with a registration form which she handed to Edward.
"You need to fill out this form so you can take the exam, Edward." Riza opened her purse and pulled out a pen. "Here you go."
"Thank you."
The three of them remained seated in an armchair while Ed filled out his form. One thing Riza noticed was that Edward was writing slowly with his left hand. His handwriting wasn't exactly pretty but she figured he was probably right handed before the whole incident.
Several minutes later Edward stretched his hands above his head and then began to massage his left hand with his automail hand. " Geez, they should simplify these formats."
Roy smiled. "And that's just the beginning. State alchemists should be turning in reports all the time."
Ed sighed listlessly as he rummaged through his suitcase until he found a sheet that he added to the form he had just filled out.
"Very well, Edward. I'll go deliver your papers. Stay here with the Colonel, it probably won't be long before they call you in to take your exam."
Ed nodded and slid lightly into the armchair.
Riza took the form from Ed and started walking down the corridors of the barracks. She had already passed a couple of offices when she stopped abruptly. A year ago she had dismissed the idea in favor of the situation and her professionalism but in her mind there always remained a small part of curiosity and hope. Edward...12 years old...blond hair and golden eyes. As she quickly checked both sides of the hallway where she was, Riza could see that at that moment there was no soldiers around so she leaned against a wall and began to search through the papers she had in her hands. When she found the birth certificate she was looking for she began to read it quickly.
Name: Edward Elric.
Mother: Trisha Elric.
Father: -
It struck Riza that Edward's father's name was not recorded. If this child were her son she could not believe that the man who had helped her had refused to give him his last name. But, even though her mind was screaming at her to give up because she had lost her son the moment she decided to separate from him, her heart was racing as hope rose in her being. Her son's golden eyes were something she had never seen again in anyone else besides Van Hohenheim. There was still hope and it rested on the date of birth.
Date of birth: February 3, 1899.
At that moment Riza let out the breath she hadn't realized she had been holding and a feeling of disappointment came over her. The rational part of her being had told her not to get her hopes up but her heart had given way to a little hope and now it was shattered. Her son had been born in mid-December and Edward Elric had been born in February. There was no reason for Van Hohenheim and his wife to give their son a different birth date, especially when they had witnessed the birth, so they couldn't have forgotten. See? Those golden eyes don't mean anything. Maybe it's not a common color around these parts but that may only be in the East. You hardly went out to see the city when you lived in Central and the North is out of the question. You're naive to think you'd get your son back out of nowhere. Besides... if Edward Elric had been your son, how could you face him after all he has suffered because of your abandonment? It's better this way, isn't it?
Trying to control a couple of tears that were inexplicably trying to leak out of her eyes, Riza gave a sigh trying to focus on the present. She arranged the documents and continued on her way.
Riza handed over the documents and then walked back to where Roy and Edward were. Just as she was approaching, the examiners arrived to pick up Edward. Roy stood up and started to make his way to the evaluation room since his rank gave him the opportunity to be present at the exams. Riza for her part gave Edward a small good luck smile and sat down on the couch to take care of Ed's things while the exam was taking place.
A couple of hours later Edward and Roy returned to where Riza was. There was no need for Riza to ask how the exams had gone, for a slight smile from Roy had given her the answer: he was sure that Edward was going to pass.
Giving Riza a smile of thanks for taking care of his belongings, Edward put on his coat and picked up his suitcase. A short time later the three of them were walking around the Central Command courtyard.
Checking to make sure there were no soldiers nearby, Roy decided to break the silence. "I have to say, you put on quite a show during your practical exam."
"Shut up. I should charge you a spectator fee."
Roy laughed lightly. "You're lucky you got out of there alive after pointing a spear at the Fuhrer like that. Even if it was a practical joke." Thinking it wouldn't hurt to start giving him a tip or two, Roy added. "If you get your license you'll become a member of the military. But if there is any doubt of your loyalty to Bradley, your license will be revoked immediately. Be careful."
"I'd like to say the same thing to you." Directing a serious look at him Ed continued. "When I pointed my spear at that guy...you were the only one who didn't look alarmed, Colonel. That was hardly the reaction of a loyal subordinate."
Somewhat taken aback by Ed's observation, Roy turned to look at Riza, who was walking to his right, and pointed at the blond. "He has a point."
Riza couldn't help but sigh at Roy's carelessness. "Colonel, in this kind of situation you should at least act like you're concerned."
Roy returned his gaze to the front and placed a hand on his chin. "If you had eliminated Bradley at that point, that would have opened up a position for me."
Ed was puzzled at such a statement. "Hey!" At that moment an idea crossed his mind and he couldn't help the wicked grin that appeared on his face. "What a juicy tidbit of gossip. Maybe I should rat you out to the military command."
Roy began to laugh enjoying the moment. "And where would that get you? In case you hadn't noticed I have some interesting things in my repertoire."
Ed's smile disappeared and was replaced by a frown of confusion. "Huh?"
Roy stopped his pacing. "Not creating humans. Not create gold. Swear absolute allegiance to the army. These are the three rules a state alchemist must never break. Even though the process may have been incomplete, you attempted to transmute a human being. If that were to come to light, your career would be over before it even began." At the change in Ed's expression, Roy smirked. "Your brother could be sent to a lab as an object of study. You know what I'm saying, brat? You keep your past a secret and accept the license like nothing happened and my own points will go up for finding a talented alchemist." Roy started walking again, leaving Ed and Riza a few steps behind. "As long as your secret stays hidden we both win. So don't get your hopes up with your evil plans."
"You damned-"
Before he could finish his sentence, Roy interrupted him with a little laugh. "You still have a week before they announce your results. So you should enjoy your week in East City and forget all about this little matter." And with that said Roy disappeared as he rounded the fence surrounding Central Command, leaving a thoroughly enraged Ed.
"Damn smug bastard."
Riza placed a hand on Ed's shoulder, drawing his attention. "Relax, Edward. Maybe it sounded a little harsh but it's the truth. You need to be very careful about the secrecy of what happened to your brother's body and yours."
Dropping his suitcase so he could cross his arms Ed replied. "Ha, what he's interested in is scoring some good points at my expense."
"I'm not going to deny you that he may benefit from having spotted you, but the Colonel isn't as bad as you think. You have to get to know him first."
"As if I'd be interested."
"Did you ever stop to think that it's almost a given that he's going to become your commanding officer? Since he's the one who recommended you it's only natural to think you'll be assigned to his unit."
Ed's eyes widened enormously. "You're kidding right?" Riza shook her head and Ed slapped his face with his left hand. "Damn! Just what I was missing."
Riza smiled at him trying to cheer him up. "You'll see you'll end up getting along just fine."
At that moment a honk was heard coming from a car that had just parked at the entrance to Central Command. In the passenger seat sat Roy with his arms folded calmly and the same smug grin that had gotten Edward so riled up.
Ed snorted. "I doubt it" Picking up his suitcase and slinging it over his shoulder, Ed headed for the car followed closely by Riza.
The trip back to East City was quieter than the one on the way out. This time there was almost no conversation between the three of them because Ed was still annoyed with Roy so he spent the whole trip frantically reading a book, which at some point caught Roy's attention. Wait, is that another book?
When the train pulled into the station, Ed looked up from his book and then put it in his suitcase. The three of them got off the train and as soon as they were outside the station Ed took a few steps to the opposite side where Roy and Riza were headed.
They both stopped and turned to look at him. Roy called out to him. "Hey, kid." Ed turned and Roy could see the frown on his face. "Remember, meet me in a week in my office." Ed nodded and made an attempt to keep walking. "You'll be okay on your own?"
"Of course."
Roy started reaching into his pockets for something when Ed had started walking. "Wait."
Ed stopped again and rolled his eyes before looking at Roy. "What?"
"What's the hurry?"
"I need to call Al."
Roy smiled. "In case you hadn't noticed at the train station there are pay phones."
Ed blushed slightly in embarrassment and reluctantly walked back the way he had come to return to the station. As he passed Roy, he stopped him by putting one hand on his shoulder as he held out the other, in which he held a piece of paper.
"Here."
Ed looked at what was offered with distrust. "What is it?"
"It's my office number." Ed started to move his hand to take the paper when Roy added. "And my home number too." Ed's hand stopped abruptly and he looked at Roy with a surprised expression. "If you need anything feel free to call."
Ed took the paper a little suspiciously. "Why also your home one? I guess your office number is more than enough."
"You don't think I spend all my time at the office do you? What if you get lost during the night and don't have a way to reach me?"
The calm expression with which he said it, accompanied by the slight sincere smile on his lips made Ed realize that he was serious. It wasn't that Roy didn't think he could fend for himself, it was just that he was aware that Ed was new in town and wanted to make his stay a little less complicated.
Ed tucked the paper in his pocket and smiled, "Okay. I'll remember to call you when I need someone to talk to at 3 a.m."
"Why would anyone make a call at that hour?"
Ed shrugged. "You said to call you if I needed anything."
At the thought of losing hours of sleep, Roy grimaced. "You better need something within reasonable hours for a normal person."
Ed's grin widened. "Too late, Colonel. You should have thought better of it before you gave me your personal number." With that said he directed a slight bow to Riza and began walking back to the station as he raised his left hand over his shoulder by way of farewell.
Roy and Riza stared at him with a slight smile until he disappeared from their field of vision. He seemed like a bit of a troublemaker but they were sure he would manage.
Turning to Riza, Roy said. "Let's go, Second Lieutenant." And the two of them set out on the road to East City Command.
A week later Ed found himself walking through Eastern Command looking for Roy's office. Obviously at the entrance he had been denied access as last time but, after much prodding and an almost depleted patience on Ed's part, a military man agreed to check with a call to Central to see if there was an Edward Elric on the register of state alchemist applicants.
Snorting at the waste of time at the entrance, Ed continued to walk the halls with his hands in his pockets.
During the week Ed had gone through as many places in the city as possible and along the way had helped a couple of people repair a few things. He had even taken the opportunity to buy a couple of books when he found a small bookstore specializing in science.
Despite the colonel's offer, Ed didn't call him all week. There were one or two occasions when he had felt lost but he preferred to find his way back to the hotel by asking people around him. Also, as tempting as it was, he refrained from making good on his threat to call him in the wee hours of the morning as he thought there would be other opportunities to do so and it would be even more fun if it was a surprise 'attack'.
After passing a couple of offices he finally found the one he was looking for. Just as he was raising his automail hand to knock on the door, it opened quickly revealing a burly man with reddish hair.
"Yes, Havoc. If I run into Thomas I'll ask him if he has any cigarettes left." At that moment the man looked back to the front finding Ed who still had his hand raised in the air. "Huh? Is it bring your son to work day?"
Somewhat irritated, Ed lowered his hand and replied. "I'm here to see Colonel Mustang."
The man raised an eyebrow. "You know, Colonel Mustang is not a babysitter."
"What's more, he has his own nanny." Added someone in the background. "Hey, Breda. What's up?" A tall blond man peeked over the red-haired man's shoulder to see the person standing in the doorway. "What's this little boy doing here?"
Ed's sulk was not long in coming. "Who are you calling so little that he can't reach a doorknob?!"
The cigar in the blond's mouth slipped slightly. "I didn't say anything like that."
The redhead was also surprised by the boy's fuss but decided to pick up the conversation "So, what do you want, kid?"
"I told you, I'm here to see Colonel Mustang. I need to talk to him about-"
At Ed's words, the blond man's eyes widened immeasurably and he pulled his companion aside to stare at the boy interrupting him before he could finish giving his reasons. "No way!" he pointed to Ed's face, "You come to see the Colonel because surely you're his long lost son."
Ed grimaced at that statement but before he could even open his mouth two more heads popped up from behind the blond and the redhead.
"What?" the gray haired man asked.
"The Colonel has a son?!" Asked a black-haired, bespectacled man who appeared to be the youngest in the unit.
The red-haired man put a hand to his chin. "I don't think so, Havoc. He doesn't look like him, besides the kid is blond and has golden eyes."
Without warning the blond man reached down and cupped Ed's face with one of his hands and began to analyze his face.
"Hey!"
"Well yeah, maybe he doesn't look much like him But what if he has his mother's features?" he moved Ed's face a little to the side. "Don't you think the shape of his nose looks like the Colonel's?"
"Looks like a regular nose to me." Replied the red-haired man.
"Also, when you combine the genes of a person with black hair and eyes and one with light shades, the black color becomes dominant and the odds of the baby inheriting the same characteristics as those of a person with light eyes become of-"
"Thank you, Falman. We understand your point." Replied the red-haired man cutting off his companion's speech.
Pulling his hand away from Ed's chin to place it on his forehead to force the boy's head back, the blond man added. "But even his chin looks like the Colonel's."
"I think you're imagining things, Havoc." Said the red-haired man.
Having used up every last drop of his patience, Ed pushed the blond man's hand away and took a few steps back to begin waving his hands above his head wildly. "Damn it, leave me alone, I'm not your entertainment, I'm just coming to see that bastard to see my state alchemist exam results!"
They all stood near the door surprised by the boy's words. They didn't know if it was more striking the blatant way he referred to Mustang in the middle of the Command or if it was more striking the insinuation that this little boy had taken the exam to become a state alchemist.
The blond man broke the brief silence that had ensued. "So you're not Colonel Mustang's son?"
His companions looked at him with a That's not obvious? expression, while Ed shouted a No! as he glared at him.
Just then a door opening was heard followed by a click in the background and the men were petrified for a few seconds before slowly turning towards the source of the sound.
"Gentlemen, it seems to me that there is still a lot of work to be done at each of your desks." A female voice was heard "Also, would you all be so kind as to let Edward in?"
In unison they all responded with a Yes, ma'am! and quickly returned to their work area, except for the red-haired man who hurried out the door.
Ed approached the door again and could see Riza place the safety on her pistol and stow it in the holster attached to her waistband. Fixing her gaze on him Riza smiled, "Good morning, Edward. I'm so sorry for the commotion."
"Don't worry about it. I just hope next time they''ll respect my personal space." Replied Ed shooting a murderous glare at Havoc who, sensing his stare, began to accelerate the speed of his handwriting.
Riza kept her smile and started walking towards her desk. "The Colonel is waiting for you in his office."
"Perfect, thank you, Lieutenant." Without paying much attention to his manners Ed took long strides towards Roy's office door then slammed it open. "Hey, Colonel."
Roy looked up from the papers he was reading and sighed. "Couldn't you be any more rowdy?" he asked sarcastically.
Without waiting for Roy to tell him, Ed took off his coat and sat down in the chair in front of the Colonel's desk. "Shut up, Colonel. I was coming in a good mood but YOUR subordinates don't know how to behave."
Roy raised an eyebrow. "Behave? Aren't you biting your tongue?"
Ed frowned. "I'll let that pass just this time. Where are my results?"
Roy grinned. "You really want to know?"
"No, I'm just coming to see your silly smug face." Ed replied sarcastically. "Well?"
Roy fumbled in one of his drawers until he pulled out a small box and an envelope. He pulled the small box towards Ed and, returning to his professional expression, said. "Open it."
Ed took the box and opened it, discovering inside a silver watch with the Amestris crest engraved on it. With one of his automail fingers he began to run along the reliefs and a small smirk appeared on his face.
Roy began to speak bringing him out of his stupor. "This silver watch is the insignia that proves you are a state alchemist. Guard it with your life." Roy pulled out the papers inside the envelope. "Here's your certificate and some forms or something like that... I don't have time to read it so you better check the contents for yourself." He added as he returned almost all the papers back to the envelope.
Ed placed his right elbow on the armrest of the chair and rested his face on his hand. "Do your job, slacker."
Roy ignored him as he gave the certificate a quick once-over before returning it to the envelope. "Hmm... what an ironic name. I didn't think the Fuhrer was that witty."
"What?"
"Oh, nothing." Roy extended the certificate to him. "Congratulations. You are now officially a dog of the military."
Ed took the envelope and pulled out the certificate. "So this is the certificate. For an important sounding designation it's printed on terribly flimsy paper." Ed began to read it quickly until he came to a part that caught his eye. "Fullmetal?"
Roy sat back in his chair and interlocked the fingers of his hands. "That's right, when you become a state alchemist you also receive a codename. From now on you will be known as the Fullmetal Alchemist."
Ed smiled. "That's great. Sounds powerful."
Roy found himself infected by the boy's smile. "Good." He rose from his chair. "I guess it's time to introduce you to the team."
Ed's smile disappeared. "If I'm in your unit that means..."
Roy's smile turned smug as he adjusted the collar of his military jacket. "That you're in front of your new boss, Fullmetal." Ed grimaced. "And as your boss I expect you to treat me with the proper respect."
"Ha! In your dreams, you bastard." With that said Edward walked out of the office with his coat in his left arm and the envelope and box in his automail.
Roy sighed. He had already imagined such a response. But if that's the way Ed wanted it, Roy could make introductions fun...at least for him. Oh yes. He was sure the addition of Fullmetal to his team was going to make his unit more interesting. With that thought in mind Roy smiled and followed Edward.