The next thing, Serah knew, was that she woke up in a bright and white room. A white curtain was pulled out, giving the Ishvalen some privacy. The silver-haired pushed herself up in a sitting position, looking around before locking her gaze on the white curtain. She could sense Ed sleeping on the other side of the curtain, Serah swung her legs over the edge of the bed and slowly got off. The Ishvalen gripped the white fabric in her hand, hesitating only for a split moment before pushing the curtain aside. Allowing her to look at the sleeping Alchemist, Serah stepped over and took a seat on the left side of Ed on the bed. Her fingers brushed a few strands of golden hair away from his closed eyes, the slow rising of his chest. Made Serah sigh in relief, she felt that Ed was alive with her senses but seeing him breathe was another thing. The Ishvalen rested her palm on his cheek for a long moment, just happy that he is here with her. Serah heard a soft groan from the blond Alchemist underneath her, the Ishvalen pulled back a little. Ed opened his eyes, crimson red meet golden eyes. The sight of Serah leaning in over him, made him smile with a soft sigh.
"Hey…"
"Serah." Ed sighed in relief; the Alchemist was terrified when Serah fainted after being stabbed. The horror and despair that he felt, seeing her like that, sickened him to his gut. He knows that Serah means a lot to him but he never realized just how much until now, the older Elric closed his eyes as he pulled Serah closer. Losing her would mean that-… no he won't, he can't think about that now. What matters is that they are both here, alive, and together. Ed's eyes widened as he remembered that Serah was stabbed and sitting up, the Ishvalen blinked at the instant chance of his emotions.
"You were stabbed!?" Ed tried to move into a sitting proposition, it caused Serah to frown as she pressed lightly a hand down on his shoulder, not allowing him to sit up.
"I'm fine, Ed. It does not hurt." The Ishvalen could sense the disbelief from Ed, with a sigh she lifted the hospital shirt up. The older Elric blushed faintly at the sight; his eyes glanced over the tanned skin. There was no hint of Serah being hurt, not a trace of a wound.
"How…. What?" The silver haired teenager let the shirt fall down, hiding her stomach from view.
"I do not know how or why." Serah glanced to the side, leaving some of her thoughts unsaid. She couldn't share them, while it feels wrong, it is for the best. The less who knows about her theories and what she is planning the better, for now at least.
Ed grabbed her arm and tried to pull himself up, Serah immediately placed an arm around his shoulder and neck. Not wanting him to overdo it himself and be in more pain. Pushing the top of the bed up so the Alchemist could lean back with support, letting out a deep sigh while he closed his eyes as he relaxed against the bed. He could feel her shivering slightly as she leaned against him, with a small sigh. The Alchemist wrapped his arm around her neck and shoulders, pulling her close to him. Serah buried her face in the crook of his neck, tightening her fingers in the fabric of the hospital gown. After what happened last night, the pair needed the comfort and security that they bring each other.
The door to their room opened and Sergeant Brosh peeked his head inside, his eyes widened as he noticed the Alchemist awake but Serah asleep. The Ishvalen was laying on her side, next to Ed's left side. Her arm rested across his chest while Ed had a hand near her hip.
"Ah, mister Edward! You've finally woken up." Ed moved his hand to Serah's shoulder, ruffing her a little. The Ishvalen groaned but opened her eyes, as she pushed herself up from her laying proposition. She moved to sit near the end of the bed, with crossed legs.
"Where are we?" Ed had asked Serah earlier but she didn't know either, and the Ishvalen wasn't about to allow the Alchemist to get off the bed or leave him alone.
"This is the hospital of an acquaintance of second Lieutenant Ross. We thought that it wouldn't be a good idea to place you both in a military hospital, as we would be questioned. You two can recover in peace and quiet here." Ed flinched sightly in pain, a second later, Serah was right beside him. He held a hand on his wound as he glazed at the Ishvalen from the corner of his eye, just knowing where her thoughts went. She feels guilty, that is her fault, that he got hurt because of her. Ed gently reached out and placed his hand over hers, he didn't want her to believe that the reason why he is in the hospital is her and because she couldn't protect him. He knows that Serah did her best to keep him safe, she allowed herself to let go, something she told him that she swore to herself. That she would never tap into the anger that still lingers, not after she accidentally hurt someone very close to her. The thought of hurting some else because of the anger, she still feels today, terrifies her. The self-loathing and shame and guilt, she felt after it happened, she never wants to go through that again. It was the only time, that he had ever seen the Ishvalen cry. It's rare to see her shaken up but when it happens, she only shivers, holding in her tears. She hates being vulnerable like that, letting someone see her like that. And if she has to, she only allows herself to be that vulnerable with himself and Al. Letting them see her at her worst, when her fears and shame and doubts, get too much for her to handle on her own. The scars, the demons she encountered during the civil war, are still there and sometimes, it becomes too much. But at the same time, over the years, he has seen a different side of her vulnerability. A side where she allows herself to open about everything, completely and truly honest, when he and her share those little moments. She allows herself to be completely vulnerable in these moments, and he always returns the same vulnerability and honesty. An equal trade between them, Ed tightened his fingers around her fingers. Tilting his head to lay on top of her wrist, Serah pressed lightly her fingers against the base of his neck.
"Ah, crap, it hurts." The Alchemist leaned forward and pressed his fingers to the bridge of his nose, Serah took a seat behind him and rested her hand on his back. The Ishvalen understands his frustration at their or mostly his situation, he wants so badly to find out about the whole truth behind the Stone. Being wounded and hospitalized, he could gladly live without for the moment.
"And I was so close to finding out the truth, there isn't time to hospitalized." Serah gazed at the Sergeant and Second Lieutenant with a frown, the officers both nodded once at each other. Before turning back to her and Ed, with stern expressions and arms hanging down at their side.
"Fullmetal Alchemist, Sir and Miss Serah!"
"Please excuse us for what we are about to do!" Ed looked at the pair with a flabbergasted expression, wondering what the hell is going on with the two. Serah narrowed her eyes, the longer she stared at the pair. The Ishvalen didn't at all like this, they are acting weird. A second later, Ed's head turned by the force of the slap. Serah growled under her breath, glaring at the Second Lieutenant as she tightened her grip on Ed. The short black-haired Lieutenant winced slightly at the force of Serah's glare; Ross lowered her hand. Not really willing to try to smack the Ishvalen, as the second Lieutenant had no idea if Serah would attack her for the slap. There is something about the Ishvalen and Ross doesn't know if it is a good thing or not yet, Serah, since they met the Ishvalen, seemed tense whenever Brosh or herself got close to the Ishvalen. Like Serah didn't want her or Brosh near, being wary of military officers. The Second Lieutenant didn't even realize that Serah is only tense around Brosh and herself, and not when the Ishvalen is next to Major Armstrong.
"Major Armstrong told the two of you so many times to not act on your own, but then the three of you did it anyway! Even when he told you to stay at the inn patiently because it was dangerous! And on top of ignoring the Major's kindness to keep you safe, you almost died!" The Second Lieutenant loudly ranted at the injured Alchemist, before turning to the Ishvalen.
"And you, young Lady! Promising the Major to stay put and you still went out! Don't you at all care for your own safety! What you did was plain and completely reckless." Ross's expression softened as she stared at the Ishvalen and Alchemist.
"You need to recognize that you're still children, just next time. Please don't try to do everything by yourselves, please trust the people around you… can't you put a little more faith in us adults? That is all!" Serah kept her glance to the ground as she got of Ed's bed, the Alchemist reached out for her before noticing her tense shoulders and back. With a frown, he pulled his hand back. Serah understands why Ross and Brosh are upset, but she can't help but let her thoughts ran wild. With everything going on, for the time being, Scar, losing Nina, and finding out about the truth about the Philosopher's stone is starting to overwhelm her. Right now, she really doesn't need someone to lecture her on being reckless, she knows that she messed up and because she wasn't strong or careful enough. Ed and she got hurt and ended up in a hospital. The self-loathing, sorrow, pain, anger, and guilt are eating away at her, Serah can't think of anything else but what happened at the firth laboratory. The Ishvalen grabbed her shades and turned towards the door. She walked past the Ross and Brosh with her head low and shades on, the door closed behind her. Everything that have happened in these past weeks, finally got to her, the glass finally tripped over. The Second Lieutenant and her partner turned around after her, the Alchemist gritted his teeth.
Serah ignored those who went past her as she walked to the rooftop, needing some quiet and to be alone for the moment. The Ishvalen rested her arms on top of the railing, letting out a sigh as she overlooked the city. Closing her eyes before opening up her senses and emptied her mind.
Serah opened her eyes, turning her head a bit to the side as she sensed Ross walk onto the roof and over to her. The Second Lieutenant stood too close for Serah's comfort, so the Ishvalen took a large step to the side away from the short black-haired officer. Serah sensed worry and confusion coming from the Lieutenant, while the Ishvalen probably should explain but she didn't feel the need to. The Second Lieutenant might have been assigned as Ed's guard, but still, the woman is a stranger and the Ishvalen isn't really comfortable with strangers. She is wary of those she doesn't know, something she learned long ago.
"If I said something to.-"
"You did but I get it, Lieutenant. I do understand what you meant." Serah kept looking at the city, not wanting to look at the other woman. Not wanting to be vulnerable with someone, the Ishvalen consider a stranger.
"Then if you understand, why did you leave?"
"Not to be blunt, but I rather not talk about it with you." The Second Lieutenant glanced at the Ishvalen from the corner of her eye, the short black-haired woman couldn't understand Serah at all. The Ishvalen seemed fine with Brosh and her when they first met but she guesses that it was only a facade. If the silver-haired girl doesn't want to talk with her, then fine but the Ishvalen need to talk with someone.
"Even so, then talk with someone else." The Ishvalen didn't even spare a glance at the Second Lieutenant as she turned around, Ross turned to look after Serah as the Ishvalen walked across the rooftop.
"I know, I just needed some time on my own." Serah left the roof and walked down to the room, stopping for a moment when she reached the door before walking on. The Ishvalen could sense Ed and Al further down the hallway.
"I'm fine with it being like that!"
"You don't have a girlfriend?" Ed stayed quiet as he didn't want to answer that, the Alchemist looked to the side and saw his brother sitting alone in a slightly darker hallway.
"Oh Al, what are you doing in that corner?" Ed changed the topic, looking at his brother as Brosh stopped pushed the wheelchair. Ed frowned when Al didn't answer him, Serah came to stand in front of the Alchemist in the wheelchair.
"Heeey?" Ed and Serah shared a look before they turned to stare at Al, Brosh tilted his head in slight confusion.
"Al!" Ed called out a bit louder, the young Elric turned slowly, kind of a bit hesitant as Al looked at his brother and Serah.
"Brother?" Serah narrowed slightly as she continued to stare at Al, something felt wrong. The air around the younger Elric felt conflicted, confused, and… somehow angry or upset. It felt weird to her, Al normally doesn't give the Ishvalen this mass amount of conflict and anger. For the most part, the air around the armored boy is calm, amused, and kind. And sometimes, frustration and annoyance but nothing like what he is feeling now.
"Don't stay over there alone, why don't you come to our room?" The Alchemist asked as he gestured to Serah, for a moment, it looked like the younger Elric wanted to say something before he turned away, looking at the ground at his feet.
"No never mind, I'll be going now."
"I'll go on ahead." Brosh started to push the wheelchair again, Serah hesitated for a moment, wanting to stay with Al but it felt like the younger Elric needed to be alone. So, the Ishvalen went after Ed and the Sergeant, knowing that when Al is ready, he will come to the room. Serah tilted her head a little around as she thought that she heard something break or crack. Shaking her head, she turned her head back ahead.
Serah opened the door and let Ed and Brosh inside first, closing the door behind her before going over to the Alchemist. Brosh stared at the pair just stood and sat there, not doing anything before the Sergeant understood. The older male left the room, leaving Serah with Ed. The Alchemist reached up with his left arm, gripping Serah's shoulder. The Ishvalen placed a hand on his spine and the other hand on his hip, helping him up from the wheelchair and onto the bed. Serah moved to pull her hand to herself, Ed grabbed her left hand, pulling her closer to him. The Alchemist rested lightly his hand on her hip, hiding his face against her stomach. The Ishvalen sighed softly as she tilted her head forward and rested her forehead on top of his head.
"Whenever you want to talk, Serah…" The Ishvalen sighed against his head but understood. Ed does want her to talk about whatever is going, but not before she is ready and willing to. He is giving her space and being patient, allowing her to figure out her thoughts on her alone first.
"I know Ed, and I will. I promise." Her words made the Alchemist nod once, silence filled the room as they enjoyed each other's embrace.
"Serah, I called Winry and asked her to travel to Central for repairing my automail." The older Elric mumbled as he pulled back a little, looking up at the Ishvalen and into her red eyes as he pulled the shades of. He saw understanding swirling in the depth of her irises, he won't be able to do much without the use of his automail.
Serah was sitting on Ed's bed, with her legs crossed as she braided her silver hair. She didn't even notice that the Alchemist was watching every movement as her thin and rough fingers waved the silvery strands as her eyes were closed. The older Elric was sitting up and rested a hand on the Ishvalen's knee, while Al had taken a seat near the back wall. When the door to their room opened, and a shriek of disbelief and sorrow reached the trio.
"No Way!" Serah finished the braid and tied it off with a hairband, stopping humming as she turned towards the door. Winry stood in the door frame staring at the Alchemist and the Ishvalen. Ed had a bandage wrapped around his forehead and left wrist when the Major had been told that Serah and Ed were in the hospital. Armstrong of cause rushed to their room and tried to hug Ed but Serah stopped the Major, explaining that if the Major hugged Ed tightly then the older Elric would be more hurt than before, the Second Lieutenant and the Sergeant stared at the Ishvalen in disbelief and awe. The girl managed to stop the Major like that when Armstrong nodded in understanding and stood back instead.
Winry's eyes turned to Serah, the blonde's brow furrowing as her glaze searched the exposed tanned skin for white bandages, the tiny cuts, and scrapes from jumping out of a window had mostly healed, so Serah didn't need the bandages any longer. The Ishvalen noticed the long stare that the mechanic gave her, shaking her head. Al stayed silent and just watched blankly, not really seeing anything. The younger Elric was lost to his thoughts, not understanding still, that his own brother and childhood friend could lie to him like that. Is Serah in on the lie? Have the Ishvalen known all this time? No, she promised him that she would eventually tell him whatever he asks of her. Just if she needed time, give her that, and then when ready, she would.
"Are you hurt too?" The question was meant for Serah, the Ishvalen gave the Rockbell a small smile.
"No, I am not, Winry." Ed and Serah had agreed on to not tell Winry or any of the others that in fact, the Ishvalen got hurt. They felt that it was better to not tell them, as they couldn't explain how the Ishvalen's stab wound had healed. The pair didn't want the blonde mechanic more worried than she already is, and they also didn't Winry too deep involved in whatever is going on. The blonde Rockbell still frowned sightly, as she stared at the Alchemist and the Ishvalen.
"Still, aren't you hurt bad enough, Ed?" Winry's glaze had locked on the bandages around his forehead and wrist, as she wasn't able to see the wrapping around his torso. Which the Alchemist thought was proper for the best, he noticed Winry staring at the bandages. The less the mechanic knew the better, Serah lightly pressed her palm to his spine.
"It isn't this big of a deal; it will heal fast.-"
"What is it?"
"I just was wondering if you got hurt because the automail broke down…." The young blonde traded off as she stared at Ed and Serah. The pair stared at the female Rockbell, both equally confused.
"Because I didn't properly maintain it." Winry lowered her head, the Major, the Second Lieutenant, and the Sergeant all turned to the older Elric. Serah gave a sad smile, understanding Winry's thoughts, the wondering what ifs. The thing is that they couldn't know that the automail would break or that Ed or herself would get hurt, they had no way of knowing what would happen in the Firth Laboratory.
"No-no it's not your fault, Winry!" Ed was quick to reassure Winry that she had nothing to do with his injures, explaining that if his automail hadn't broken down. Then he would be more hurt and that he is fine, Winry got a glint in her eye as the words seek in and her emotions took a one-eighty as she ranted about the price for forcing her to travel to Central. Ed growled at the sight of the glint in the Mechanic's eye, Serah snorted at the sight of Ed scowling and Winry being overly energetic for the price. For a second, Serah froze as she sensed something different coming from the air around Al. Her red eyes fall on the large armor sitting near the back, the feelings of conflict and hurt grew around him. It only made the Ishvalen more worried, the younger Elric have been more silent and kinda cold ever since she and Ed woke up.
"Yes! Fix his arm and heal his injures, and the energetic Edward Elric ought to come back soon!" The Major smiled at the Alchemist in the Ishvalen's arms, they turned to the large Alchemist.
"But to do that, you must be well feed and rested!"
"I get it!" Winry looked around the room and noticed a tray with two plates stacked and two glass bottles, one was still filled with milk and the other one empty.
"You left the milk." With an annoyed gaze, the Rockbell turned back to the order Elric who immediately turned away.
"I hate milk." Serah flinched as it became chaos, Winry screaming at Ed who shouted back at the long-haired blonde and the Major lecturing the young Alchemist. The Second Lieutenant and the Sergeant just stared at the sort of amusing scene, not knowing what to do. The door slammed shut, causing those in the room, to turn to the door. Ed and Winry looked at the now-closed door, both confused as they wore a frown, Serah sighed softly under her breath.
Serah sat near the foot of Ed's bed, watching as Winry started working on the Alchemist's automail. The Ishvalen listened as Ed voiced his concerns about Al and the way he has been acting. The silver-haired girl peeked up as she sensed something that made her smile softly, pressing a hand lightly on Ed's back as she got off the bed. The Ishvalen moved to the other bed, grabbing her shades, and left the room. Ed glanced after her as the door closed, Serah lightened up when she saw Hughes walking towards her. The Lieutenant Colonel opened his arms as the Ishvalen wrapped her arms around his neck, needing to feel her foster father's warm embrace around her. Maes tightened his arms around the Ishvalen, lifting her up. Closing his eyes in deep relief, when he was told that Edward and Serah were in the hospital. God, he feared the worst, to see his daughter uninjured and walking, gave him so much relief and calm.
"God, Serah I thought…" Hughes let her down but still hold her close as he wasn't willing to let completely go of her just yet.
"I am alright, Maes." The Lieutenant Colonel moved a bit back, really looking at his daughter. He knew that something is weighing on her mind. Serah didn't need his advice to handle it but maybe… Yeah, he is bringing her home with him today. It would probably be good for the Ishvalen to see Garcia and Elicia, after all, it has been over a year since the last time, Serah visited.
"Good, now since you are here in Central. You are coming home with me, for tonight. Gracia and Elicia would like to see you again." The father and daughter started to walk towards Ed and her hospital room, the Ishvalen thought for a moment before her eyes widened just as Hughes pushed open the door.
"Wait! Already?!" The Lieutenant Colonel grinned slyly as he turned to stare at the silver-haired girl, the Ishvalen growled under her breath before smacking her foster father's arm lightly.
"You completely forgot, didn't you?" The sly smile turned into a smirk, the longer the Lieutenant Colonel stared at Serah who huffed and glared up at him with her arms crossed.
"Well, excuse me Maes. There has been a lot on my mind lately." Hughes' gaze softened in understanding, while he reached out and placed a hand on her head. Ed and Winry owlish blinked at the sight between father and daughter, the blonde Rockbell had no idea who the black-haired man is but it is very clear to her that Serah knows the man. Winry turned to Ed who was softly smiling at the Lieutenant Colonel and Ishvalen, the Alchemist's gaze had a certain soft glint. The young Mechanic stared at her childhood friend in somehow disbelief and wonder, that expression he wore at the moment. She has never seen Ed wearing that expression before, well it appears that there could just be so much more between the Ishvalen and the Alchemist than she realized at first glance. The Lieutenant Colonel turned to look at the Alchemist and the blonde Rockbell, with a large grin on his face.
"Hey, Ed! Who is this, you have brought into your hospital room!?"
"Oh, hey Hughes. This is Winry, a childhood friend. Winry, this is Lieutenant Colonel Hughes."
"Hello, I'm Winry Rockbell."
"Maes Hughes pleased to meet you." Winry and the Lieutenant Colonel shook hands for a short moment, Serah had moved over to Ed and rested a hand on his shoulder.
"Is it alright for you to sneak away from work?"
"Hehehe, I'm off duty this afternoon."
"Really! Weren't you the one to say that the tribunal's been really busy lately and you couldn't afford to take a day off work?" Ed pointed out, gesturing with a hand before placing his hand on Serah's hand.
"Don't worry, I gave Seska overtime instead."
"You're a monster." Ed blankly stared at the Lieutenant Colonel along with Winry, while Serah snorted under her breath.
"Anyway, while I'm off duty. I came to check up on you and Serah and how you were doing, but also, I came to do something else too."
"I got some information about Scar, and it seems like you'll be released from our watch pretty soon." Ed peeked up, hearing that. Serah frowned sightly, a tan confused and worried, shaking her head.
"Really?! I'm finally free of these annoying escorts!" The Second Lieutenant and the Sergeant scowled at the Alchemist, being annoyed at him.
"Hey, that's mean!"
"What do you think, would happen if we weren't with you?"
"Well, Ed. I am still your escort, after all." Ed huffed at the poke from Serah, crossing his arms over his chest. With softened eyes, as he was relieved by the Ishvalen saying that.
"Huh? Escorts, hey, what kind of dangerous business have you and Serah have gotten yourselves into!" Winry scowled, pointing at her childhood friend.
"Eh, no it's nothing, don't worry! Besides it's not a big deal!" Winry frowned at Ed and Serah who squeezed his shoulder, those three, Ed, Al and now Serah won't say anything about what is going on. It's probably to not make the Mechanic more worried than necessary but she does worry and she fears for their lives.
"Right, it's one of those things that you brothers wouldn't tell me even if I asked anyway." Winry huffed. Hughes went over to Serah and whispered something in her ear, the Ishvalen blinked before nodding once. The silver-haired girl went over and grabbed her bag, disappearing into the hallway with a bag in hand.
"Well, see you tomorrow, I'll go look for an inn to stay at."
"You can stay at one of the military lodging facilities for a cheap price if you mention my name."
"Military what? That sounds too stiff."
"Well, in that case, you can stay over at my house!" Hughes offered the young Rockbell, Serah came back inside, now wearing an elbow long-sleeved dark sand-colored dress and black leggings underneath. She walked over to Ed and placed the bag on the bed beside him, he smiled up at her. The pair didn't notice that Hughes had grabbed Winry by the back of her shirt and forced Ross and Brosh out of the room.
"Serah, we will be waiting for you at the main entrance." The Ishvalen waved once with her hand as she looked over her shoulder at her foster father, before turning back to Ed, wearing a soft smile.
"I'll be back later, and I might go buy your favorite pastry if the store is open later."
"With apple and cinnamon?"
"And icing, if the store isn't open later, then once we get out of the hospital. I promise." Ed laughed, Serah ran her finger through his free hair for a short moment. Before turning around to walk out of the room, pausing at the door. She turned and smiled at the Alchemist for a second before disappearing from his view and out the door. The older Elric fell back on the bed, crossing his arms over his eyes while blushing. Lowering his automail arm to rest over his heart, Ed sighed before smiling up at the ceiling. She really is something special…
Serah met up with Hughes and Winry at the main entrance to the hospital, the Ishvalen wore her shades to hide her red eyes as she normally does. The Lieutenant Colonel smiled at his daughter when she came to a stop before him and the young blonde, together the three of them left the hospital. Serah was cleared earlier before Hughes arrived, by one of the doctors. But she was still allowed to stay the night in the hospital room with Ed, giving a sound reasoning for why to the Doctor. And of course, the reason was, being Ed's official guard, appointed to the Alchemist by the Lieutenant Colonel Hughes himself.
A bit later, Hughes was holding a few gifts and Winry's toolbox. While the young Rockbell held a large teddy bear in her arms and Serah had her arms wrapped around a gift basket with different types of goods. The Ishvalen had left her foster father and Winry earlier to go buy the gift basket, it was for the Hughes' family as an apology since she didn't visit them often.
"Um… Mr. Hughes?"
"Yeah?"
"What is this for?" Winry's question made Serah realize that the man had never told the young mechanic, well like Garcia always have said, the more, the merrier. The blonde is in for a surprise, the thought made the Ishvalen smirk sightly.
"I'm glad you asked!" The Lieutenant Colonel grinned with a beaming expression, Serah smiled sensing the joyous and happy emotions from the air around her foster father.
"Today is my daughter's third birthday and my older daughter is visiting for the first time in a while."
"You know, Maes. I am sorry about that." The black-haired man just laughed, wholeheartedly before smiling softly at the Ishvalen on his right side.
"Eh daughter?" Winry not only felt confused but also looked like it, Hughes turned to the blonde with a nod.
"After Serah was brought to Central, my wife and I took her in and adopted her." The female mechanic nodded in understanding.
"Papa, welcome home!" Elicia opened the door and jumped into her father's arms; Hughes crouched down in front of the door. Serah placed the gift basket on the ground, wanting to keep her arms free. Garcia stood behind her young daughter, looking at the scene with a laugh before noticing her older daughter and someone she didn't recognize. The mother reached out and wrapped Serah in her embrace, holding the Ishvalen tightly to her. It has been over a year since Garcia last saw her oldest daughter, it saddened her of course but seeing the Ishvalen standing in front of their home, made her happy.
"Let me look at you!" Garcia pulled back and stared at the Ishvalen, as she rested her hands on the silver-haired girl's shoulders. Serah wore a happy expression, a small smile tugging on her lips while standing in a relaxed posture. But the Ishvalen's shoulders were tense, the older short-haired woman ignored that for the moment being. Overall, her oldest daughter is happy and a bit lighter than the last time she saw the Ishvalen. Elicia noticed her mother holding Serah, the young girl beamed while laughing as she wrapped her arms around the Ishvalen's leg.
"Sissy!" Serah froze for a spit second remebering a other young girl with braided pigtails, before giving Elicia a smile. The Ishvalen bent down and lifted the girl up into her arms. Elicia tugged on the Ishvalen's long silvery locks framing her face, while the two girls talked. Garcia turned to her husband and the young girl standing there awkwardly as she shifted her weight.
"My, what a cute guest." Winry looked flustered, lowering her gaze to the ground. Hughes and his wife laughed softly at the girl, both very understanding.
"I told you about them, right? You know, the Elric brothers."
"Yes."
"This is their childhood friend Winry; she was looking for a place to stay so I bought her and Serah. This is my wife, Garcia, and our youngest daughter Elicia."
"Thank you." Winry bowed her head sightly, feeling really grateful for the Hughes' family for letting her stay the night. Serah with Elicia still in her arms walked closer to them, the young girl was rubbing her cheek against Serah's."
"How do you do? And please feel at home here." Winry nodded, before turning to Serah and Elicia who both were staring at the Rockbell. They were wearing almost identical expressions which shocked Winry for a moment and made her realize that there is so much, that she doesn't know about Serah. Garcia and Maes laughed at their two daughters, they are happy that they kept telling and showing pictures to Elicia of Serah. Those two are really just like sisters, the Ishvalen have always adored Elicia and the young girl always looked up to Serah. Winry waved at the birthday girl, in Serah's arms, the female Rockbell gave the two sisters a small smile.
"Elicia, how old are you?" The Mechanic asked.
"Tw-…. Three." Elicia corrected herself, it made Winry and Hughes sway from the birthday girl's cuteness. Serah and Garcia looked at each other with a half-bemused expression, the Ishvalen and the short-haired woman had expected it from Hughes but not from Winry. The long-haired blonde turned to the Hughes family, Serah had stepped closer to the parents and stood in front of them with Elicia in her arms. The young girl didn't want her sister to let go of her just yet, Elicia tightened her hand around the fabric of Serah's shirt.
"But are you sure this is alright?"
"Isn't it more fun to enjoy the festivities with everyone, welcome to our home?" The parents and their daughters smiled largely at the young Mechanic, Winry returned the smile with one of her own, a small and uncertain but happy smile.
Noon turned into evening as everyone enjoyed themselves, celebrating Elicia's birthday and Serah's visit to the Hughes' home. Those attending knew Serah and glad to see the Ishvalen at home. Even if it is only for a short while, it has been a while since they have last seen the oldest daughter of Maes and Garcia. Winry made herself right at home, making conversation with the guests while Serah let herself relax for the time being. The Ishvalen had noticed the glances, her foster mother sent her every now and then. Garcia rested a hand on Serah's shoulder for a moment, asking if she would help with the dishes. The Ishvalen agreed, pushing her chair back and grabbed the stack of used plates into her hands. Serah noticed her foster father and Winry sitting in the corner, Elicia in the Mechanic's arms as the Rockbell wore a small sad, and worried expression. The Ishvalen knew that Hughes would take care of it, so she left the living room for the kitchen.
"So, you're his mechanic?"
"Yes, we were all born in Resembool and our houses were close. When we were kids, we used to always be together like siblings." Winry smiled softly, looking at the Lieutenant Colonel who laughed a bit.
"Must have caused a lot of trouble because of that."
"I guess you could say it did, but I only get worried and just when I think they came back. It turns out Ed totally busted his arm and they brought Serah as well." The young Rockbell sighed, turning her glace to the floor.
"Ed was hospitalized for some major injuries, Serah is more quieted from what I know of her which is not much and Al seems like he is worried about something…. Ed's automail… I attached a new one just around a half month ago but taking a look at him today. It's damaged all over the place and his body is like the same, it makes me wonder about what kind of lives they all have. But as always, and no matter what happens, they absolutely won't say anything about it. And when they left to restore their bodies, they decided that by themselves without getting any advice. When they finally came home, Serah was with them and had been for three years and I didn't even know that. If I really was their sister… I wonder if they would have talked to me about their leaving, about having Serah with them, and also about what happened with Ed to get those wounds, I saw today."
"It's not that they didn't ask for advice, it's that they didn't need any advice." Winry looked up at Hughes with a shocked expression.
"They thought you'd understand without having to talk to you about it." The Lieutenant Colonel took his glasses off and started to clean them slowly, Winry looked down for another moment.
"There are times when things have to be spoken to understand them."
"Can't do anything about that, men are usually the type to speak through actions rather than words. Serah is the same way, but she is more used to speak her mind as I and Garcia taught her years ago. Anyway, if they are going to suffer, the three of them. They want to avoid making other people support them as much as possible. They don't want people to worry about them either, that's why they won't say anything. But when those brothers start to give up, at that exact time, you stop them. Isn't that fine enough?"
"Isn't that why they have Serah, for her to stop them?" The Lieutenant Colonel shook his head, resting his elbows on his knees.
"No, Serah is just like those brothers, they all need someone like you. Serah might be traveling with the brothers but she isn't you, Winry. You are still Edward and Alphonse's childhood friend, and that someday is just what they could need."
"So, tell me, Serah. what is on your mind?" Garcia asked her oldest daughter, the Ishvalen froze as she didn't want to tell her foster mother everything.
"Just please tell me about one thing, I understand that you can't talk about everything, Serah."
"I told Ed and Al that there was something they needed to know." Garcia reached out and placed a hand on Serah's wrist, stopping the Ishvalen from drying a plate. The short-haired wife looked worried and concerned as she stared at her daughter, Serah kept her eyes locked on the plate in her hands. Garcia had kind of an idea of what Serah wanted to tell the brothers, the older woman knew that the Ishvalen trusted the Elrics with her life.
"Is that something about them?" The Ishvalen sighed under her breath as she placed the plate in the cabin with the rest of the plates.
"Yes, I thought that they needed to know…"
"If you aren't comfortable to tell them yet, then don't. Promise me that you won't force yourself to tell them."
"I...- Ed and Al, I trust them with my life."
"I know that dear but are you prepared for it?"
"No, of course, I am not and I might never be. But it will be one less burden to carry, there is so much going on now and they deserve to know about that." Garcia reached out and pulled her daughter into her embrace, Serah stood still in her foster mother's embrace.
"Just don't push yourself if you aren't really to tell them just yet, take your time and then talk with them about it."
"Ed said the same thing earlier."
"Well, he sounds and is a smart boy. I know that you will take care of them and they will do the same for you, you have found two amazing boys that if you allow them to then they will be there for you forever."
"It sounds like you trust them, Garcia."
"Of course, I do. They helped you, to become who you are today. If it weren't for those brothers, I or Maes would never have seen you this happy. And for that I am grateful to them, I know that you are worried about Maes and me and about what we thought about it. Let me tell me something, that my grandmother told me long ago. 'There will come someone into your life that will show you that you deserve love and to be loved in return.' I never really understood that but when I first saw you with Edward and Alphonse, then and only then did I understand what she meant. You were always meant to meet those brothers, they helped you in ways, Maes and I never could. So yes, of-course I trust them." Garcia tightened her hold on her oldest daughter, Serah gripped the fabric of the short-haired woman's shirt, hiding her face against Garcia's shoulder. Hearing those words from her foster mother meant more to the Ishvalen than she could ever say, Serah needed to hear that. A tiny smile tugged on the silver-haired girl's lips, as she understood the other reason for why Maes brought her to his home. He couldn't tell the Ishvalen what she needed to hear, but he knew that Garcia could.
"Hey Serah, Garcia, we need to take a photo of us four!" Maes called from the living room, making the girls laugh as they left the kitchen. Maes held Elicia up and handled the birthday girl over to the Ishvalen before grabbing his wife and pulled her close to his side. Garcia and Maes stood on either side of Serah who was in the middle with Elicia in her arms, the Lieutenant Colonel reached out and pulled Serah's shades of. Holding the pair in his hand as one of their guests took the photo of the small family.
"Smile!"
"Are you sure that you will be alright, walking to the hospital?"
"Yeah, don't worry. I will be fine, Maes." Serah stood on the front step, pulling her hair into a low ponytail over her shoulder while looking at her foster parents and Elicia. Garcia was holding her young daughter; Elicia was reaching out for the Ishvalen. The young girl didn't want her sister to go, Serah chuckled under her breath as she petted Elicia's head for a moment. Hughes held the pair of shades out to the Ishvalen, Serah took the pair and pushed them back onto her nose, hiding her red-colored eyes.
"You could stay the night."
"I promised Ed that if the bakery is still open, I would buy his favorite pastry. And if I go now, I have just enough time for it."
"Well then, you better get going."
"Goodnight, it was nice to see you again, Garcia and Elicia."
"Stay safe and stop by sometime soon."
"I will try to get us back in Central soon." The Ishvalen turned around with a wave, leaving her foster family on the front step to their home. Garcia and Maes watched as their oldest daughter left their home once again, the Ishvalen since starting to travel with the Elric Brothers, never really stayed more than a few days before leaving again. Even enough, they have sort of gotten used to it, it never has become easier to watch their daughter leave. But traveling with the Elrics, makes her happy.
Serah walked into Ed's room with a paper bag in her arm, the Ishvalen smiled softly when she noticed the Alchemist sleeping on his back and the cover halfway down on his legs. Frowning slightly as she looked around for Al, before realizing that the younger Elric wasn't in the room. She placed the paper bag on her bed and went over the older Elric, taking a seat on the side of the bed. The Ishvalen brushed the golden locks away from his eyes, his nose twisted sightly, making Serah chuckled.
"Ed, wake up, I brought your favorite pasty." The Ishvalen smiled, staring at him still sleeping and snoring. She decided to poke him in his side, he twisted in his sleep around from her finger. The older Elric twitched before opening his eyes.
"Eh Serah?" The Ishvalen moved back a bit and glanced at the Alchemist, smirking sightly at him.
"Hey, I brought you, the pasty that I promised." Serah's smirk turned into a smile as Ed beamed up at her.
Serah finished up in the bathroom, getting ready for bed with Ed beside her. The both of them were brushing their teeth, glancing at each other. A few minutes later, Ed was laying on his back with Serah resting on her side. The Ishvalen reached out and laced her fingers with Ed's, the Alchemist pressed his temple against Serah's as they closed their eyes. The older Elric's hand found its way to rest on the Ishvalen's hip, pulling her a bit closer.
"So, you are here today again, punk!" The Alchemist glared at the glass bottle of milk placed on the tray of breakfast. Serah snorted under her breath, slowly picking at her breakfast that she went out and brought earlier. Al was sitting on the stool near the back wall of the room, watching silently his older brother and the Ishvalen. The young Elric brother wondered how his supposed older brother could lie to him all this time and how he got the Ishvalen on board with it, haven't she promised them that she would never lie to them. She might keep secrets from them but never truly lie, if that is so, why would she about this?
"I've had enough of this, what the hell is milk good for?! I'm definitely not drinking this!"
Serah glanced over to Al as Ed kept ranting about not drinking the milk, the Alchemist tried to get Al to drink it before remembering that his younger brother isn't able. The Ishvalen frowned as she pushed her tray away from her, the amount of self-loathing, hurt, and anger grew around the younger Elric. She watched as Al turned his head to the side.
"You have a real body, brother, so you have to drink it." The younger Elric murmured, Serah looked between him and Ed.
"I don't like stuff that I don't like! It's not like I'm going to die from not drinking milk! And even if I look like this, I'm getting bigger but everyone keeps saying small, small! Al, you're lucky." Ed continued talking, not looking at his younger brother. Serah reached out and tried to stop Ed from continuing his rant, as she had a feeling that Al isn't very patient at the moment and that saying something could set the younger brother of. Ed kept eating, ignoring Al and Serah. The younger Elric stood up suddenly, forcing the stool back.
"I didn't want to get this body!" Al shouted, glaring at his so-called brother and friend.
Winry had just opened the door with Hughes behind her, hearing the angry shout from Al made the Mechanic freeze as Ed and Serah also froze. The Ishvalen immediately went to the Alchemist, as she knew that he is terrified to find out if Al blames him for having his soul bonded to an armor. Al never was told about it, if Al really does blame him for what happened. Serah rested her hand on Ed's right shoulder, narrowing her eyes from behind her shades.
"I didn't want to get this body." Al continued, his voice filled with anger and hurt.
Serah watched silently as Al shook in anger and frustration. Ed frowned sadly as he stared at his brother and apologized to Al.
"Yeah, it's my fault that everything got screwed up which is why I want to restore your body as soon as possible." The Alchemist took the entire blame on him, not even trying to stop Al from saying those things, not really anyway.
"Ed…" The Ishvalen murmured under her breath, frowning as she stared at the older Elric with a concerned expression.
"And what proof is there that you're going to restore my body?" Al asked his supposed older brother, Serah frowned concerned at the younger Elric, not liking where the conversation is headed between the brothers.
"I'll definitely restore you! Trust me!"
"Trust huh!? You're telling me to trust with this hollow body!? In Alchemy, they say a human being is made from the flesh, the mind, and the soul! But was there ever a person that proved that in an experiment!?" Al growled at Ed, Winry stared horrified at the younger Elric while Serah glared coldly at Al, still resting a hand on Ed's shoulder. Hughes wore a neutral expression, carefully masking his emotions as he watched the Elrics and his oldest daughter. While the Second Lieutenant and the Sergeant just looked confused, having no clue about where this came from.
"If you think about it logically, all 'memory' is just 'information' so it ought to be possible to artificially create one!"
"What are you talking about?" Ed looked shocked, not understanding what Al was saying and what made Al come to that conclusion.
"Brother, you said there was something you were too scared to tell me before, right? Could that have been something like my soul and memories were totally fake?" Feeling the horror and terror coming from Ed, Serah immediately turned to the older Elric before casting a glare towards Al. Hughes sighed, seeing the look in the Ishvalen's eyes. The younger Elric better be careful now before she goes on a rampage, Winry froze, with horror-filled eyes. The Mechanic slowly turned to the younger Elric.
"Brother, how do you prove that a person named Alphonse Elric really existed? Right isn't it possible that Serah, Winry, Granny, and everyone was tricking me!? Well, is i-" The younger Elric never saw the kick coming right at him, Al landed on the ground in shock as Serah pulled her leg to her while glaring at him. The younger Elric flinched at the stone-cold glare from Serah, Ed stood up without even looking at anyone who left the room. Hughes sighed and stretched the back of his head, Serah without a word, left the room. Clearly going after the older Elric, Ross and Brosh turned to look after the couple. The Ishvalen walked a few steps behind the Alchemist, silently following after him.
On the roof, Ed went over to the railing and crossed his arms on the railing. Serah came over and pulled herself up on the railing, with her back facing the city. Silence fell around them, this is something for the moment that the Ishvalen won't be able to help Ed with. The only one who can be Al but there is something she can do instead.
"...I never thought that something like this was what he thought. It makes me think, has Al always thought that… that I made him?" Serah lifted her head to look at the clear blue sky, the Alchemist was overlooking the buildings of Central.
"I don't think so, Ed. Al… have always satisfied or at least glad to be by your side. But these past days since the firth laboratory, he has been feeling confused and frustrated about something. It could be that there was something that made him doubt what he knows. But.-" Serah felt the small hope from Ed as he listened to her words, she needs to make herself clear to him. That what she is saying is only a maybe, they don't know that happened for sure as she and Ed were inside the Laboratory and not outside with Al.
"We do not know that Ed… all I know is that we need to talk about this, the three of us." The Ishvalen sighed, crossing her feet at the ankle while she turned her glance to the ground. The utterly and complete defeat and hurt and sorrow, the Alchemist felt when Al said those things. He has never felt something like that before, Serah knew.
"… Back in Resembool, I saw those photos of you, Al, and Winry. Of when you were children, Ed." The Ishvalen let out another sigh, stealing a glance at the Alchemist beside her. Al stepped onto the roof, looking at his brother and Serah.
"Bro...-"
"That reminds me, I haven't sparred for a while so my body's gotten weak." The Alchemist kicked off the slippers on his feet, silently while Serah kept her glance on Ed. While Al tilted his head, a tan confused over why his brother is acting so causal and why Serah haven't run over and kicked him again, knowing just how overprotected the Ishvalen can be at times.
"What are you talking about? Your wounds haven't even healed yet…" Without a word, Ed launched a kick at his brother and landed a few punches. Al tried to defend himself from his older brother, Serah had pushed herself to her feet and stood on top of the railing. Keeping a sharp eye on the spar between brothers, ready to step in if necessary. She watched as Ed gripped a sheet tightly in his hand and threw it at Al before landing a kick at the helmet. The strong force from the kick caused the younger Elric to fall on his back, Serah landed in a light crouch and went over to Ed and Al while the Alchemist took a proposition on the ground opposite of Al. Their heads near each other, Serah sat down in a lotus style, resting her chin in her palm watching the brothers.
"I won! Hehe, this is the first time that I beat you, Al."
"...That's not fair, brother. " The younger Elric glared playfully up at the sky. He never should have doubted his brother, the strong drive to restore their bodies. If it was fake why would Ed feel that need so strongly, and why would Serah keep that a secret from him. Around two years ago, Serah swore to both him and his brother that she would never lie to them when they asked her something. That she would always be honest with them, though stating that she might keep a few secrets. But always honest in due time.
"Who said that you have to fight fair?"
"See Serah agrees with me! A win's a win." Ed spoke gleefully.
"You know that Serah sometimes doesn't fight fair, brother." Ed groaned, knowing that was true. Every now and then, in a spar, the Ishvalen would fight unfair. Pulling a dirty trick, to keep the brothers on their toes. Making sure that they were on top of their game, and at their best.
"I don't know what you are talking about, Al," Serah spoke with an innocent voice, with a playful expression and a glint in her eyes as she stared at the brothers. Her comment made the brothers chuckled under their breaths.
"We fought like this a lot when we were kids."
"Yeah, now that I think about it, we fought over a bunch of stupid things. Like whom will get the top or bottom bed in a bunk bed."
"I lost that time."
Serah wore a smile as she listened to the two brothers, while they went back and forth on what they fought over and who won the spars. Her smile faltered slightly as she heard that they fought over who got to marry Winry, Ed glanced over to her for a moment. That spar over who got to marry Winry means nothing to him, since Al and he was just kids back then. Winry is just a sister to him, and the mechanic has always been that a sister to him and Al. Back then, they were just playing around.
"Are you saying that all those memories are fake?"
"I'm sorry." Serah smiled softly, able to feel the utter remorse and guilt the younger Elric is feeling over what he said to his brother. Al knew that he should have believed and trusted his brother but what the guard or Barry said to him. Caused him to doubt himself, Serah, and Ed, he should have known better but sometimes all it takes is a small seed to make one doubt themselves.
"Weren't you the one that said this at east city 'I want to restore my body no matter what.' are you saying that's also an artificial feeling?"
"….That wasn't artificial."
"Yeah, we've decided that we'll definitely restore ourselves. We don't need the sort of halfhearted hearts that would get shaken up by something as minor as this. I am going to get stronger, both emotionally and at fighting…. And drink as much milk… as I can." The two brothers lifted their hands up towards each other, Serah stood up and moved over to their heads, joining in with holding her fist to theirs. The Ishvalen smirked at the Elric brothers, though she wants to talk to Al later when they have the time for it,
"Let's get even stronger," Al told his older brother and Serah.
"And I will be right beside the two of you." The Ishvalen looked at the Elric brothers, with a small smile.
Later, the trio along with the Lieutenant Colonel and Major. Ed had drawn an ouroboros tattoo and a half bad drawn picture of a guy with long hair and a woman.
"And after I was kicked by this guy, I don't remember anything else." Ed held the drawing up of the long-haired guy, pointing at the paper. Serah has taken a seat on the bed, sitting with crossed legs.
"What about you, Serah."
"I was knocked out by the armored guard." Hughes frowned as he watched as she unconsciously pressed a hand to her rips for a split second before she turned to the Alchemist next to her. The Lieutenant Colonel narrowed his eyes but knowing that if it was serious, she would tell him. At least Hughes hoped, she would.
"Soul, guardians, precious sacrifice, allowed to live, a person named Envy. And according to Mr. Marcoh, the stones were used even at the Ishvalen Civil War. A tattoo of the ouroboros, the transmutation circle for the Philosopher's stones. There are many mysteries just concerning the experiment on the stones." The Major spoke, standing next to the Lieutenant Colonel with crossed arms.
"Even if we try to investigate this any further, the research institute is a pile of rubble now. And something might pop up if I fish through the crime list at the tribunal."
"If you are going to investigate this, please be careful, both of you. We don't know who is involved in this." Armstrong and Hughes nodded at the shade-wearing Ishvalen, both agreeing with her logic. They have no idea who is the enemy, and who is involved with whoever is going this.
"I will do some investigating of those subordinates of Mr. Marcoh that are believed to have participated in the research on the stones." The door opened and Fuhrer King Bradley stepped inside the hospital room.
"Excuse me."
"Fuhrer King Bradley!" Everyone in the room proclaimed, shocked at seeing the Fuhrer in a hospital.
"Ah, be quiet. Just like that."
"Yes sir," Armstrong spoke, Serah glanced at the Fuhrer from the corner of her eye. Something felt a bit off, the Ishvalen shook the thought from her mind as she turned to look at the Alchemist.
"Fuhrer, if I may ask why you have come to a place like this."
"Why, to drop off a get-well present for the Fullmetal Alchemist and the phoenix Warrior." The Fuhrer handed a melon over to Ed, the Alchemist held his hands out and took the melon while wearing a shocked expression.
"Ah, thank you."
"It seems that you've done a bit of investigating on the military brass, Major." The Fuhrer turned to the Major, who immediately straightened his back.
"Wha!? Ah, no I mean. How did you…"
"Don't take my intelligence network lightly and Edward Elric, the Philosopher's stone, Was it? How much do you know, depending on the situation…" The Fuhrer asked.
"I was kidding, you don't have to be so defensive!" The Fuhrer laughed for a few seconds, before turning to the older Elric and the Ishvalen.
"Say what?"
"I also know that there are some disturbing movements within the military, I want you to do something about this, Fullmetal, Phoenix… however."
"Ah, that is…"
"Oh, a list of the names of those who worked on the research on the Philosopher's stones before. I've investigated this quite thoroughly, and all of these people's current whereabouts are unknown. We got word of this, a few days before the firth laboratory collapsed. The enemy is always a step ahead of us and even with my intelligence network. We presently know nothing of the size of the objectives or how far the enemy has penetrated."
"In other words, to conduct a search could be dangerous… right?" The Lieutenant Colonel asked, with a frown while being a bit concerned.
"Yes, Lieutenant Colonel, Major Armstrong, Elric brothers, and young Serah. I have judged that you are people that are worthy of being trusted and I will give you an order for the sake of your own safety. I will not permit you to involve any more people in this, or will I allow you to speak of this to any others. As of this moment, we don't know who our enemies and allies are, you must not trust anyone! Act as if you believe everyone in the military is the enemy! But! When the time comes, be ready, as I will have you work for me without restraint."
"Ye-Yes, sir!" Armstrong and Hughes saluted the Fuhrer, Serah placed a hand on Ed's shoulder while she rested her forehead to his temple.
"Sir! Where are you, Fuhrer!?" Loud voices could be heard from the outside of the hospital room, causing those in the room to turn to the door. The Fuhrer froze, hearing the voices of his subordinates.
"Not good! My annoying subordinates have come after me, this is because I sneaked out from work, I will go back now, have a good day. Fullmetal, Scarlet." The Fuhrer went calmly over to the window and crawled out the window, leaving the Major, The Lieutenant Colonel along with the trio, shocked as they stared after the Fuhrer. Winry stepped inside the hospital room, looking over her shoulder, out the door.
"What is wrong with everyone, those two guys outside were frozen solid." The Mechanic turned to look at those in the room, who were shocked.
"What's wrong?"
"There was a storm passing by," Ed spoke with a confused and shocked expression which made Winry even more confused.
"Winry, don't worry about it too much." Serah sighed, turning to the Mechanic with a small smile.
"Ah, Alright, I bought the train tickets you asked me to get."
"Oh, thanks."
"You sure are in a rush; your wounds haven't even healed yet." The Major half scowled the older Elric, Ed groaned. Serah has already scowled him earlier for it.
"I can't stay locked up in a place that stinks of antiseptics forever! I'm leaving Central tomorrow."
"And even if I tried to stop him, I would not be able to."
"That's right, Serah." The Ishvalen smacked the Alchemist again, Winry chuckled at the sight of Ed and Serah arguing with each other. The rest ignored the couple as Hughes turned to look at Winry and Al,
"Well, where are you going this time, Dublith?"
"Where is that?" Maes pulled out a map over the Amestrian country and laid it down on the table.
"Umm... right in the middle of the southern area." The younger Elric pointed a finger at the written word 'Dublith.' Winry and Hughes looked at the spot, the blonde Rockbell shrieked in shock and happiness.
"Oh! over here! Right before Dublith!" Winry pointed at a spot on the map, the pure and complete joy and awe leek right of the Mechanic. The Ishvalen turned to the Rockbell, a bit confused as she blinked at Winry.
"Rush valley? What's over there?" Al asked his childhood friend, concerned over how happy Winry looks.
"Rush valley, the holy land of automail mechanics. I have always wanted to go there once in my life! Take me! Take me! Take me! Take me! Take me!" The blonde Mechanic literally begged the trio, desperately wanting to go to Rush Valley.
"Go by yourself." Ed just stared at Winry, with a half-annoyed expression. Which immediately caused the female blonde to glare at the older Elric, Serah sighed.
"Who's paying for the tickets!?" Winry growled at the young State Alchemist, who glared back at her. "Are you trying to threaten me!?"
"Ed, I think you need to drop it; Winry has made up her mind." The Ishvalen shook her head, with her arms crossed over her chest.
"Shouldn't you be on my side?" The older Alchemist turned to the Ishvalen, in disbelief over how she didn't try to talk Winry out of going with them.
"If you think that Winry will not come with us then you are out of luck." The Ishvalen glanced at the blond boy beside her, with a soft smile on her lips.
"Serah!"
"Isn't it okay, Rush valley is on the way to Dublith." Al agreed, turning to look at his brother and friend. The couple was standing beside each other, Ed holding the Ishvalen's hand.
"Fine..." The older Elric grumpily agreed, with a glare pointed at the ground and a scowl.
"I was planning to go to Resembool but that'd changed now, I'll go call Granny now!" The Mechanic skipped out of the room, totally happy over the fact that she can go to Rush Valley. Leaving the trio and Hughes looking after the female blonde.
"She's really happy."
"I can imagine, it sounds like Rush Valley could be every automail mechanics' dream." Serah grinned sightly, crossing her arms under her chest.
"Yeah, she'll be a good wife, though not as good as mine." Hughes kind of bragged, with a beaming grin.
"Maes, you shouldn't say things like that." Serah scowled her foster father, with a playful glare. Hughes held his hands up, somehow the Ishvalen managed to look threatening with her shades on top of her head.
"I could say the same thing about you Serah, I know that one day, you will be a good wife." Hughes took a chance and dare to tell the Ishvalen that, well knowing that she probably would hit him.
"Ah, Shut up!" The Ishvalen glared at the Lieutenant Colonel, with her hands on her hips. Hughes blinked as he noticed a slight blush appearing on her cheeks, as the tips of her ears turned a bit red. Ed was sputtering air, in disbelief and shock with a deep blush on his face. While Al looked amused, moving his glance between his brother and the Ishvalen.
"What are you going to do in Dublith?" The young Rockbell asked the trio. The group had taken two benches, Ed and Serah was sitting beside each other with Al and Winry on the opposite bench.
"I talked with Brother about a bunch of things but we thought we should go see our teacher."
"And I would like to meet their teacher, she sounds like an interesting woman." The Ishvalen grinned at the Elric brothers, who were staring at her, both brothers a bit terrified of the thought of Serah and their teacher together.
"We're definitely going to get killed." Ed groaned, running a hand down his face.
"Kill… just what kind of person is your teacher?" Winry stared at her childhood friends, with an expression of disbelief and confusion.
"I know, brother! I'm scared."
"Be strong, little brother."
"Ah, so overdramatic." Serah sighed, crossing her legs at the knee before smirking sightly at the older Elric. Ed huffed at the Ishvalen before turning to look to the other side, the small group let silence fall over them. As Winry got lost in her thoughts, the Mechanic missed the glance Serah gave her. The blonde Rockbell didn't understand why she all of the sudden felt uncomfortable witnessing the affection between the couple, she is happy for them, truly. So why? Ed and Serah are clearly and comfortable with each other and Al. They always make sure that Al is included in the conversations and plans, Ed, Serah, Al is so comfortable and in tune with each other. It kinda makes her feel excluded and lonely, there are so many things that the Elrics haven't told her. Having Serah traveling with them is just the tip of the pile.
"So, what made you want to see your teacher all suddenly."
"Well, there are two reasons for that, first we have been on a losing streak lately so anyway, we want to get stronger. That's one reason, the second-"
"What? You're going because you want to get stronger? Are you obsessed with fighting?" Winry cut the Alchemist off, totally disagreeing with Ed and Al's reason for visiting their teacher. Why does it always have to come down to fighting with the brothers, the young Rockbell turned to the Ishvalen, wondering if Serah is like Ed and Al when it comes to fighting.
"You idiot! It's not as simple as that! I mean I don't just want to get stronger at fighting. I want to get stronger on the inside...right?"
"Right, right."
"I want to get even stronger than before!"
"Yeah, I feel like if we go to see Teacher, we'll get stronger, somehow."
"The Ishvalen people have a saying or it is more like a belief. If you are strong enough on the inside then you can handle everything that comes after you on the outside." Serah spoke softly, her expression really soft and filled with fondness and adoration. The expression threw Winry for a loop and it reminded her that she doesn't know a lot about Serah.
"If you don't mind me asking… What is it like, living in Ishval?"
"I do not mind, Winry but I would like to have that conversation somewhere private."
"Oh, well of course."
"What is the second reason?"
"To ask Teacher about human transmutation! Even though we were trained by Teacher, we were never taught anything about the Philosopher's stone or human transmutation."
"Yeah, because getting in involved with the Philosopher's stone means getting involved with a lot of dangerous business. And I thought we could try asking her directly about restoring our bodies."
"I can't worry about how we do things anymore. I'm ready to get killed by Teacher, so I can ask." The older Elric mentioned.
"Well, I hope certainly not, I rather like having you both alive." Serah crossed her legs at the knee and folded lightly her arms over her thigh.
"It was such a short life wasn't it, Al?"
"I wanted to at least get a girlfriend, brother."
"Ah anyway, I almost forgot! I have something that will cheer you up!" The blonde Mechanic pulled out a home-baked apple pie with a large grinning expression.
"Look, apple pie."
"Wow looks delicious. How'd you get that?"
"Garcia baked that, did she not?"
"She did, saying that I should take something along on the trip and whipped this up. But still, that's a lot." Winry smiled, remembering the fun she had while helping Garcia bake the pie.
"Looks like it was made for four."
"Brother can eat my share as well."
"Ugh, are you trying to get back at me for what happened at the hospital, You jerk?" Ed groaned at his younger before taking a bite of the piece.
"Yeah, this is good!"
"Mrs. Hughes is really good at cooking, and she taught me how to make the pie so I can make some for you. When you get your bodies back, Al."
"Garcia is a natural when it comes to baking and cooking, it was one of the reasons why Maes fell in love with her."
"Really!?"
"I guess you could call this a 'mother's touch.'"
"Brother, you sound like an old man." The younger Elric joked, causing Serah to chuckle under her breath before she took a bite of her piece of apple pie.
"The Hughes' family is really nice and Elicia is adorable."
"The Lieutenant Colonel Hughes is a stupid parent, a buttinsky, and an overall annoying guy."
"Hey that is my father, you are talking about!"
"Sorry, Serah." Ed apologized to the Ishvalen.
"He always came to chat with you and Serah when you were hospitalized."
"Seriously, he kept saying that he was busy with work. And yet he came by every day, just to visit us."
"Maes is like that, next time we return to Central. We have to stop by and thank them somehow, right Ed, Al." The Elric brothers quickly agreed with the Ishvalen, Serah blinked a bit uncomfortable, reaching up and pressed a hand to her heart. She felt off like something was wrong. The silver-haired girl shook the thought from her mind, turning to look at the night sky with a frown.
That's a wrap on chapter eleven of The Alchemist and the Ishvalen, I hope that you have enjoyed it.
Author's note:
Let's start with Winry, she is and will have a hard time with Serah and the fact that the Ishvalen has been traveling with the Elric brothers for years and hadn't been told about that. Winry doesn't have any romantic feelings for Ed or Al, they are only like brothers to her. She felt like they don't care enough to call her or Granny and told them about Serah along with the fact that Winry only learned about the Ishvalen three years after Serah started to travel with Ed and Al. It hurt Winry a lot when she found
out about Serah when the brothers did return to Resembool for a visit. Serah and Ed became a couple during the four days there while Granny Rockbell already approves of Serah, it will take a long time for Winry to accept Serah and approve of her. There will be a lot going into Winry's thoughts and feelings about Serah and the Ishvalen's relationship with both of the brothers. And as the story unfolds, we will learn more about Winry's thoughts and feelings on Serah and on the fact that the Ishvalen is traveling with Ed and Al. There will be a certain someone who will help Winry coming to terms with that. (It's not Serah.) Winry is a bit envious of Serah's relationship with Ed and Al with the way the three of them understand each other completely. Ed and Serah always include Al.
Also in this chapter, we learn a bit more about Serah's lingering anger and her guilt when she accidentally hurt someone who later became close to her. When she was taught about martial-arts which gave her away to channel the anger, and it lessened over the years. She knows at one point; she will have to talk about it. Ed or Al won't and don't ask about it, and either will Winry. Someone else will have that conversation with the young Ishvalen. While Serah knows that Ed (and Al) can take care of themselves, it doesn't stop her, if there is even a small way for her to help them, she will do it.
Please take care and stay safe.