CW:

Disturbing Imagery


Chapter 16

Roy watched the sun slowly begin to set in the pale, cloud hazed sky above from where he lay next to Ed in their shared nest. The dying light cast long shadows from the looming trees across the brittle grass to settle into the den, a soft breath of cold air promising snow in the near future. Roy shivered as thoughts of snowflakes drifted through his troubled mind, curling closer against the warm body that leaned heavily against his side.

It had been a little over a day now since the fateful battle with The Pack…where Ed had nearly lost his life while Roy had taken Anna's in retaliation. He had truly believed that he had lost his pup to the twisted chimera…devastated enough to let the canine deep within free to exact its bloody retribution. Roy was still shaken to his core from all that had happened, almost unable to process that somehow Ed had survived Anna's brutal attack…and that Star had actually managed to save his life…

Anxiety caused Roy's fur to bristle as he gazed out into the forest, wondering what dangers lurked just beyond his vision as the sun began to dip below the treeline and the shadows darkened. Star had promised yesterday to return to replace the bandage around Ed's neck, as well as to bring them more healing herbs…so where was she?

Roy desperately hoped that the gentle chimera had not encountered any of the scattered and possibly hostile members of The Pack on her way through the shadowed woodland. While Star had leapt into the battle yesterday without any sort of hesitation, did she still have it in her to fight back if attacked by another chimera? With Anna's abhorrent leadership completely gone, was The Pack still out for blood, or were the feral chimeras now forced to brave the dangers of the wilderness, alone, without any sort of guidance? Would they even attack Star if they saw her, or would they flee instead?

A low and pained whimper broke Roy from his bleak musings and he immediately returned all of his attention back onto Ed. As his critical gaze slowly wandered along the length of his pup's weakly trembling body, Ed began to squirm in obvious discomfort before letting out a quiet whine. Instinctively Roy curled his body tighter around Ed's, drawing his suffering form close as he lapped softly at his pup's cheek in an attempt to calm him. The gesture seemed to soothe Ed's distress for the moment as he burrowed closer to Roy, burying his muzzle deeply into the soft white fur of his guardian's chest with a faint sigh.

While it seemed as though Ed was sleeping easier right now, the night before had been a different story. His pup had slept through the rest of the day right after the battle, not waking or even wincing when Roy had cleaned out both of their less serious wounds with the crushed flowers Star had told him to use. Though as soon as the sun had completely vanished and shimmering stars began to light up the dark sky above, Ed had taken a sudden turn for the worst.

As the numbing effects of the herbs had slowly worn off, his pup had begun to writhe uncomfortably in his sleep, his distress only worsening as the night wore on. Ed had eventually awoken from his medicated slumber with small and pitiful whimpers, only able to moan in misery before Roy had quickly given his pup a second dose of herbs to help combat his growing pain. After a few tense minutes Ed had then fallen back into a now restless slumber, crying out in fear as he was suddenly assaulted by nightmares.

It truly broke Roy's heart to see his dear pup suffer so…unable to do much for him other than whisper gentle words of comfort as well as providing a warm, solid physical support in the waking world. Roy wished with all of his being that he could make the pain go away, even for just a moment, but there was little he could do. The deep ache within his chest only grew worse when Ed would cry out for him through his pain induced nightmares, desperately begging for Roy to stay with him as he pawed weakly at his anguished guardian.

Roy stayed close to his pup though, only leaving Ed's side for less than a minute to fetch the suffering chimera some much needed water from a nearby puddle. Even then Roy could hear Ed's miserable and distressing wails echo from inside the den, each tormented cry slicing through him like cold shards of jagged ice until he quickly returned to comfort his pup. While Roy knew that Ed was unaware of his surroundings at the moment, too lost in a medicated yet uneasy daze, it still hurt him deeply to leave his pup's side even for a moment.

Now they were starting to run low on the blessed leaves and roots that were the only thing able to ease Ed's physical distress, and Roy had no clue what he would do when they finally ran out. He had absolutely no idea as to which plants were even safe to handle, the herbs looking like they could belong to any plant to his untrained eye. He was so worried that he'd only get it wrong and hurt his pup more than he was already suffering…or worse.

When Ed had finally regained consciousness as the sun had reached its highest point in the sky he had seemed more aware of his surroundings, though he still looked exhausted and absolutely miserable. Roy had immediately given him the second to last dose, watching Ed anxiously as he had lapped up the herbs with no complaint, amber eyes bright with pain before his pup soon succumbed and feel into a light yet uneasy slumber.

This time Ed's sleep was not deep at all, and on the few occasions when Ed would startle awake and grow a bit more lucid, he would talk to Roy about nothing in particular with a raspy voice. Something was beginning to feel wrong to Roy though…his pup was lethargic and looked absolutely exhausted, even after all of the sleep he had gotten. There was a slight sourness to his scent and Ed's body was starting to radiate a steady, unsettling amount of heat. Ed's behavior was completely off as well, and Roy feared that his pup's dreadful wound was now infected.

Roy had even managed to hunt earlier that day, in between Ed's fleeting bouts of consciousness, catching two mice nearby before returning to the den. When he had pushed his way through the entrance and awoken Ed, prodding at his side gently to rouse him, Roy had then nudged his pup's share of the prey closer so he could easily reach it. Ed had just gazed blankly at him for a heartbeat before those golden eyes travelled to rest listlessly on the mouse before him. Roy knew that if his pup did have an infection that he would need all his strength to fight it off, and he had desperately hoped that Ed would eagerly snatch up his share of their meal as he usually did.

Instead Ed had weakly pawed the mouse aside, resting his head against the soft moss of the nest before mumbling that he wasn't hungry. Roy had tried his hardest to get his pup to eat even a single bite, but Ed had only fixed him with an amber gaze full of pain and exhaustion before settling deeper into their nest. Roy's own appetite had faded then as well, anxiety rushing through his body and forcing his stomach to tie itself into painful knots as he moved both mice to the back of the den and out of the sunlight.

Feeling absolutely sick from worry Roy had settled down next to Ed, who then promptly leaned heavily against him as Roy curled protectively around his poor pup. They had remained that way for some time now, Ed fading in and out of consciousness as the sun sunk low in the sky with Roy holding his breath as he waited for Star's arrival.

Now it was growing darker outside and there was still no sign of the silver chimera. Roy's anxiety had slowly hardened into fear that only eased when he heard Ed lap at the soaked moss or when his pup would talk to him for a few brief moments before drifting off once more. Star's absence kept Roy from resting though, and he wondered if there was any way that the gentle chimera would be able to get Ed to eat for the first time since the day before the battle…she seemed so much more capable at helping Ed at the moment than he was…she would handle the situation better…

As Roy let out a weary sigh while nuzzling absent mindedly at his pup's cheek, the sound of dry undergrowth crackling and the distinct sound of soft pawsteps made him turn his attention towards the entrance of the den. Hope fluttered in Roy's aching chest like a trapped butterfly when he recognized the familiar, delicate figure that now stood in the entrance, and he thought that he'd die of relief.

Star padded quietly into the den and nodded a greeting, unable to speak past a large wrapped leaf that she held tightly in her jaws. As she drew closer Roy sat up, with a small protest from a still sleeping Ed, while Star set the leaf wrap down in front of them. A small avalanche of wilted leaves, dry flowers, and roots cascaded softly onto the thin grass of the den as Star crouched before Roy and his pup, taking in Ed's condition.

"Star is very sorry she is so late." The gray striped chimera murmured softly as she pawed the herbs into separate piles with a small white paw. "Faye has taken Anna's death very hard and she wants to stay with Star all the time now. Poor thing is scared that Star will die too…it took too long to finally calm Faye down…"

Roy only nodded in response, feeling a mixture of sympathy and guilt rush through his body like a cold breeze. While he was still suffering second hand from the after effects of his pup's near mortal injury, at least Ed was still with him…but Roy had stolen Anna away from Faye…the tiny chimera would never see the one she regarded as her mother ever again…If only he could explain his actions and apologize…

"It looks like Pup has a slight fever." Star's rough voice broke through Roy's sorrowful thoughts as she crouched close to Ed, worry glimmering in her sky blue eyes as her paws brushed softly at his pup's tawny brow. "It is a good thing then that Star thought to bring some feverfew. That should help lower it, but why a sudden fever..?"

"Roy is worried that Ed's wound has become infected." Roy said as he settled back down into the nest beside Ed, propping himself up onto his elbows as he looked his pup over once more. "Ed is too warm and he seems so tired even after sleeping for a whole day. Ed has started to have nightmares too, and he wouldn't even take a bite of the prey that Roy had caught."

"That is not good," Star said with an anxious glance towards Roy before she returned her attention to Ed. As she drew closer she began to paw gently at the moss and leaves that covered his pup's neck. "Star will look at Pup's wound and see what she can do."

Roy nodded as he shifted over slightly to give Star more room to work, resting his tail across Ed's back when his pup let out a small whimper at the loss of his guardian's warmth. He watched the silver chimera closely as she carefully, yet confidently pulled the moss and leaves over Ed's throat away. His pup winced when fresh air touched his wound, but he did not wake as Star began to examine the injury.

Though she remained silent, Roy could see worry start to shadow Star's expression as she stared intently at Ed's neck for a moment. She soon dragged her gaze away from her patient and instead focused on the herbs she had brought, skillfully picking what she needed from each pile to help heal such a terrible wound.

"The bleeding has not started again, that is a very good sign." Star said as she began to crush the herbs between her gentle paws and the hard earth below. The faint hint of concern in her voice did not go unnoticed by Roy as he watched her work, knowing that she was doing all she could to stay positive. The thought of Star not knowing how to treat his pup's injury absolutely terrified Roy, and he rested his chin atop Ed's shoulder in an attempt to ease his ever growing fear.

From out of the corner of his eye Roy watched Star softly pat the mashed up herbs against his pup's neck, her attention completely focused on her current task as Roy felt Ed stir beneath him. As soon as the healing mixture met his wound, Ed let out a low whine of distress, his paws kneading through the moss of their nest as his pup began to tremble.

"R-Roy…stop…it really hurts…m-make it stop…" Ed whimpered weakly as his discomfort grew; now trying and failing to pull away from Star in an attempt to ease the pain. "S-Stop…"

"Everything is going to be okay, Pup." Star soothed in a gentle tone as she continued to clean the wound. "It will hurt for just a moment, but Pup will feel much better after it all."

The sound of an unfamiliar voice seemed to reach through Ed's daze, alarming him instead of helping as he let out a small cry full of fear. Ed tried his hardest to pull back from the silver chimera, but he was still too weak to do much other than squirm under her paws. Roy quickly lifted his head from his pup's shoulder to see those hazy golden eyes open to stare fearfully up at Star.

"Roy? W-Where is Roy?" Ed's voice was slowly growing more and more panicked as his eyes rolled in their sockets, desperately searching for his guardian as he began to howl aloud his terror. "Roy! Roy p-please…please come back!"

"It is alright, Ed." Roy said in a gentle voice as he moved to nuzzle Ed's ears in the familiar way that his pup liked. He saw Ed's fearful gaze lock onto him, the panic gradually fading away as he stared up at Roy. "Roy is right here, everything will be okay."

"Roy…" Ed breathed out in a sigh of relief, letting his eyes slide closed for a moment as his tensed muscles began to slowly relax. "Don't e-ever leave…"

"Roy has already told Ed that he will never leave." Roy soothed with a hint of a teasing tone to his voice as he leaned in and lapped fondly at his pup's cheek. "Ed is still ignoring Roy like he did when they were human. Stubborn brat."

For a brief moment a smile formed on Ed's face at the light banter, but it soon faded away when he flinched back from Star's soft paws. Amber eyes slowly opened once more and fixed themselves onto the silver chimera, confusion clouding his pup's gaze before he spoke in a wary voice. "W-Who is that?"

"It is Star, Pup is safe with her." Star's voice was soft and full of warmth as she leaned back to examine her work. She carefully reached for a small pile of nearby moss with one paw, her gaze never leaving Ed as she continued on. "The worst part is done now. Star is going to bandage Pup's wound, then she will give him some new herbs to help with any pain. Can Pup tell Star what hurts?"

Her words seemed to finally calm Ed down as he let out a small sigh, that now familiar exhaustion shadowing his gaze once more as he looked up at Star. "What doesn't hurt? Ed's whole body aches, his head, joints, muscles, and even his bones. Everything hurts, but his throat is the worst though…it feels like its burning…and Ed gets really hot, then really cold too…He just feels sick all over…"

"Is that why Pup is not eating?" Star asked in a gentle and patient tone as she began to wrap long strips of moss around Ed's wound, expertly hiding any of her previous anxiety as she worked.

"Ed just doesn't feel hungry…" His pup breathed out, a slight confusion in his voice as his eyelids began to droop. It was very clear that Ed was bordering the fine line between consciousness and unconsciousness as he muttered out a few more words. "Ed is so tired too…nothing feels right anymore…"

"Star thinks that Pup will start to feel better once she gives him some different herbs." Her rough voice was like silk, smooth and calming, reminding Roy vaguely of a brisk yet gentle breath of fresh air during the heat of a summer day. "Everything is going to be just fine. But Star knows that if Pup eats now it will make him feel better."

While Star's voice was a persuasive hum, a gentle yet tempting note to it, Ed seemed unaffected. His pup only slowly shook his head in response, a weary sadness seeming to sweep over him as he whispered a faint reply. "No…it wouldn't help at all now…Ed just wants to go back to sleep…"

"Then Pup should sleep, his body knows what it needs better than Star does." The silver chimera lapped softly at the top of Ed's head as she finished wrapping up the wound. A mixture of thick leaves and faint amounts of spider web held the new moss in place, making for a sturdy binding as she gently prodded Ed in the shoulder with her nose. "Though Pup needs to stay awake long enough to eat his herbs before Star leaves."

Roy smiled faintly as his pup let out a sigh full of annoyance and exhaustion, reminding him of Ed's usual behavior as those golden eyes slowly opened once more. Star pushed a few different looking leaves and fresher roots close to Ed's head, watching as his pup stubbornly lapped up the herbs with an irritated frown. As he swallowed them down the silver chimera smiled before leaning in to nuzzle fondly at Ed's ears.

"Star will be on her way now, but she will return to check on Roy and his pup as soon as she can." Star slowly got to her paws with a small huff of breath, appearing tired herself as she continued on. "It is different having two more chimeras to care for now, and both Star and William want to start looking for more pack members soon. Hopefully they can be helped…"

As Star's voice trailed away she shot a fleeting glance towards Ed before returning her gaze to Roy with a slight incline of her head. It was clear that the silver chimera wanted to talk to him in private, her sky blue eyes glowing with concern as she nodded a farewell to Ed and turned to leave the den. As soon as Roy stood to join Star though, Ed squirmed in their nest before letting out a small whimper and attempting to hold him back with shaking paws.

"N-No! Don't leave Ed…" His pup's eyes were half open and he looked barely awake, yet those golden irises held such panic and sheer terror in their depths. Roy felt as though his aching heart was starting to splinter as he stared sadly down at the fearful chimera. Ed looked so scared and fragile…like even the slightest gust of wind could easily blow him away. "Please…please s-stay…"

"Roy is not leaving his pup; there is no need to worry." He said as he bent to lap fondly at Ed's cheek before gently nuzzling at his laid back ears. "Roy will just be outside the entrance of the den, he'll be able to see Ed and Ed will still be able to see Roy. There is no need to be so scared, Pup."

While Ed still looked anxious and unhappy, the use of Sammy's old nickname as well as the calmness of Roy's tone seemed to ease his fear just enough to let him go. Seemingly exhausted by his small outburst, Ed slowly sank deeper into their nest as he watched Star pad softly out of the den. Roy followed close behind, glancing anxiously over his shoulder to see that his pup's eyes stubbornly remained open and aware as they left the den.

As soon as the two chimeras emerged into the small clearing just outside of the den, the sun now having completely set and twilight darkening their surroundings, Roy sat down in front of the entrance in order to block Ed's view of what was taking place just a few feet away. Star immediately turned to face him, her blue eyes wide and full of an unsettling anxiety that caused Roy to shiver, and not just from the frigid breeze.

"Roy was right to be worried about his pup's wound." Star said as she sat down heavily in the brittle grass below, looking grim as she went on in a low voice. "Star fears that Pup's wound has become infected."

Though he knew that this was a likely outcome, given Ed's worrying behavior and symptoms, the realization still struck Roy like a heavy branch falling from the tallest tree. He knew if he hadn't already been sitting down that he would have likely stumbled at the news he had dreaded hearing. Still too shocked to speak, Roy remained silent as Star carried on.

"Star has given Pup herbs to help lower his fever, as well as some to ease his pain." The silver chimera looked almost defeated, her head lowering and her shoulders hunching wearily. "But there is only so much that Star can do with limited, nearly dead herbs…she fears that she has done all that she can now…The rest is for Pup to fight on his own…"

"Is there anything Roy can do to help his pup then?" Roy tried to keep the panic inside from entering his voice as he gazed desperately at Star, willing her to tell him anything that could ease the dread darkening his thoughts. "There has to be something he can do."

Star looked uncharacteristically doubtful for just a heartbeat before shaking her head as though trying to rid herself of her own negative thoughts. She drew herself up once more, determination hardening in her blue eyes as she gazed back at him.

"Water, Pup needs to drink plenty of water, it should help with the fever too. If his pup gets too hot then rub him down with soaked moss, and if that doesn't work then Roy should give his pup feverfew. The leaves look like large, light green ferns and grow in huge clumps. Star has left Roy plenty, as well as stronger leaves and roots for pain, those she wrapped back up in the big leaf. If those don't help…then Star doesn't know what else there is to try…"

"Should Roy try to clean the wound as well?" Roy suggested helpfully, wanting to learn all he possibly could if it meant that his pup would survive this. Star seemed to silently ponder the question for a moment before nodding confidently.

"Yes, the flowers Star used were the same as before, but she mixed in a few different leaves to help with any swelling. Roy should limit any cleaning to once a day at most though; he needs to keep the wound covered so it can heal." Star's gaze suddenly grew somber as she stared back at Roy, her sky blue eyes glittering as she stood and walked towards him.

Once she was close enough Star let out a quiet sigh before resting her chin atop his head. Roy felt himself almost instinctively leaning closer against her sturdy presence, allowing himself a moment to quietly cry into her soft chest fur. The silver chimera drew him close with one paw as she allowed Roy his silent reprieve.

"Star is not saying that Pup will die for certain…but Roy needs to remain strong for both himself and his pup." Star finally pulled back to look warmly into his dark eyes before nuzzling his cheek fondly. "Star doesn't know when she will be able to return, but she will come back to check on Roy and his pup."

"Thanks," Roy bowed his head in sincere gratitude as he finally managed to reel back his emotions. "Roy wishes Star well in her task to find the others, and Roy wants her to know that Ed will be safe with him, no matter what may happen."

"Star knows that Roy will take very good care of his pup." The silver chimera spoke softly before walking away, slowly heading towards the brittle ferns and bushes that surrounded the clearing. She cast a fond glance over her shoulder before saying her farewell. "May the moon light Roy's way through the darkest of times."

With that enigmatic parting Star vanished into the undergrowth, her gray striped pelt soon swallowed by shadows as a light yet frigid breeze whistled through the trees. Roy sat there in silence for a moment, gazing up at the heavens above and watching the first stars wink into existence against the deep purple sky. With a small sigh, Roy stood and turned towards the den, ready to return to his more than likely anxious pup.

Before entering the den he stopped and dipped a large, long dried leaf into a nearby puddle of clear water, remembering Star's advice of keeping Ed hydrated. After the leaf was soaked, dripping small droplets of liquid crystal, Roy finally ducked past the overhanging lichen and into their den.

Ed hadn't moved in the slightest during Roy's brief absence, though now those beautiful golden eyes were closed as it seemed Star's herbs had done their job and eased his pain. He quietly crossed the den and set the wet leaf down on the ground in front of his pup's muzzle before settling against Ed in their nest, wrapping his tail protectively around the warm body at his side.

This sudden movement seemed to rouse Ed, amber eyes bright with fever slowly opening to gaze back at his guardian. A small smile formed on his pup's face as Ed burrowed closer to Roy, resting his head atop his white paws with a quiet sigh.

"Ed is feeling better than he did before." The tawny chimera murmured softly, his eyes now half open as he gazed sleepily up at Roy. "And with Roy here, Ed knows that everything will be okay."

Warmth spread through Roy as he rested his chin atop his pup's head, nuzzling gently at Ed's ears as he closed his eyes, a sudden peace unfurling in his chest. "Sleep now, Ed. Roy knows that he will feel a lot better after getting some rest."

The only response he received was a small yawn as Ed finally relaxed, is tense body going limp against Roy as slumber finally claimed his pup. Smiling fondly to himself, Roy buried his nose deeply into Ed's golden mane as he felt himself starting to drift off into a soft and blissful darkness. For the first time today the ache in his chest faded as Roy too let sleep overtake him.

~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~

A peaceful darkness surrounded Ed on all sides, carefully cradling his weary soul while leaving him blissfully unaware of passing time and pain. It was comforting, this place created from a medicated ignorance, but Ed was still vaguely aware of a few things. Occasionally he would feel his body move on its own, seemingly out of a deeply ingrained survival instinct, to lap up a mouthful of much needed water or ingest herbs that kept his mind safe within the soothing shadows.

The only thing able to actually pierce through the thick, inky black was Roy's steady and comforting presence. Ed was always distantly aware of soft fur brushing against him alongside the sensation of an occasional fond nuzzling at his ears or cheek. Gratitude warmed his heart at the thought that his guardian was staying true to his earlier promise of never leaving his side.

For the first time since that dreadful battle Ed felt a small semblance of peace enfold him, gently assuring him that everything would be alright after all. Once his battered body had been given a chance to heal, and he was well once more, Ed and Roy could even begin to seek out their human friends and things could go back to normal…everything would be just fine.

This blissful feeling of renewed hope was horribly short lived though…nothing more than a fleeting dream conjured from a sick and desperate mind…

Very suddenly, with no real warning, the comforting peace was viciously ripped away to be replaced by the distressing sensation of fire as it burned from deep within Ed's own body. The rising heat seemed unable to escape, trapped uncomfortably beneath his fur as he squirmed weakly in a feeble attempt to ease the blistering inferno. It was useless though and Ed was unable to break free of the growing discomfort and pain that not only attacked his body…but also began to brutally assault his mind…

Ed cowered helplessly in the presence of the now fully blazing fire inside his entire being, trying to desperately escape its grasp as a shadowed figure leapt effortlessly through the darkness and flames to slam heavily into him. His breath was painfully driven from him, leaving him gasping for air as he tried to fight back against this mysterious adversary's hold over him. Ed managed to catch a glance at his attacker and he flinched fearfully when he recognized Anna, her form twisted and distorted into something truly terrifying.

The dark chimera gazed down at Ed with black eyes that were stretched impossibly wide, a dim glow emanating from somewhere deep within the empty sockets. A demented grin parted her bloodstained lips as more of the viscous liquid began to dribble down from her mouth and nose. Anna's body was ragged and covered in dreadful wounds, flesh torn away to reveal pulsing veins and bone through her thin fur as she continued to glare hatefully down at Ed.

She looked absolutely nothing like how he remembered her, appearing more like an undead monster set on nothing but enacting her terrible vengeance than the compassionate chimera she had once been.

"Anna can live again if she kills Ed!" Anna shrieked as her horrifying, bloody visage drew ever closer, her slavering jaws now mere inches away from Ed's face as the blood began to flow heavily from her open mouth. Holding back a scream of pure terror, and weakly gagging at the strong scent of blood and decay, Ed struggled to escape once more, but Anna's hold was impossibly strong as she gazed unsettling down at him before letting out another ungodly scream. "Did Ed really think that death would stop her? Anna will kill Ed and he will take her place in hell! Surely Ed must be able to feel the flames by now…"

Before those sharp and bloody fangs could tear into his neck a huge, deep gash suddenly opened up in Anna's throat, silencing her completely as blood gushed like a waterfall down onto Ed. The thick crimson liquid soaked into his fur, only causing the fire inside to flare up as the mutilated chimera finally stumbled off of him.

Anna shot him one last look full of disbelief and pure hatred as she sank down into the now blood soaked darkness that surrounded them, her breaths ending in a terrible rattle as she succumbed to her wound. The sanguine tide below lapped eagerly at her twisted body, slowly melting away at her flesh until nothing was left but blacked and charred bones.

Ed watched on in a horrified silence as the scorched remains slowly crumbled and fluttered away as though carried by a gentle breeze to fade away into the surrounding darkness. He watched the ashes drift away for a moment before unsteadily getting to his still trembling paws. As soon as Ed was fully standing once more a new figure slowly formed in front of him, as though emerging through dark waters as its fragile whisper managed to reach his ears.

"Pup?" An achingly familiar voice echoed around him, no hatred or rage in its sorrowful tone as Ed felt his heart shatter like Anna's bones just had moments before. Standing before him now, his transparent form dancing and flickering as though trapped beneath rippling waves, was Sammy. His friend gazed at him with wide, glowing white eyes that not only sliced through the darkness, but Ed's heart as well, an unspeakable anguish emanating from Sammy's ghostly body.

"Pup…why did he let Sammy die?" Sammy's voice was nothing but a quiet and deeply pained sob as he continued to gaze at Ed, tilting his head to one side as he did so. Ed felt as though his very soul was being torn in two as thick and viscous tears began to slowly ooze from his dear friend's eyes.

A small circle of blood slowly blossomed like a crimson flower in Sammy's chest, expanding into a gaping hole that showed the anguished chimera's beating heart through cracked ribs as he let out another sob. "Sammy didn't need to die that day…Pup could have saved him…but he left Sammy behind…why?"

"S-Sammy, please…please forgive Ed…" Ed whimpered as he took a staggering step towards his friend's wavering form. Sammy stood as still as a statue as he gazed back at him with nothing but pure sorrow glowing in his white eyes. "Ed never meant for Sammy to die…he has missed him so much…If Ed could have saved Sammy then he would have…so please forgive Ed and be at peace…"

"Why?" Sammy's agonized question only repeated in Ed's mind, echoing through his ears as the voice slowly morphed into an agonized wail. The tears that streamed from his friend's eyes began to run like an overflowing river from the glowing sockets, bringing with it a tidal wave of ice cold water that slammed into Ed and carried him away into the darkness.

As he was washed away by the raging water Sammy's wavering form slowly flickered and vanished, leaving Ed alone as he struggled to escape the torrent in vain. As the wave continued to whisk him deeper and deeper into this dark nightmare, new forms began to appear around him, standing over him as though they stood upon a riverbank.

Every member of The Pack gazed coldly down at Ed, offering no aide as he was rushed past by the frigid water, their eyes nothing but black holes that held a silent judgement deep within. Ed was able to make out the forms of William, Faye and Colin, and even Twenty two's broken and bloody body as they watched on in silence. When Ed thought that his sorrow would grow too much to bear the flow of water began to ease until it eventually vanished all together.

Ed was left completely drenched and violently trembling, struggling to stand in the wake of the now receded torrent as the sound of soft pawsteps echoed from a few feet away. He looked up quickly as terror coursed through his weary body, only to let out a small sigh when he recognized the approaching figure.

Star slowly padded from the surrounding darkness, looking completely normal as she fixed him with a gentle and sympathetic blue gaze. Ed longed to run to her, to find safety in the presence of another living soul, but as he eventually got to his paws he was held back. He looked down in confusion to see thick, thorny roots twisting around his legs, slowly snaking up his body before painfully forcing his head forward, now unable to look away from Star.

The usually friendly chimera let out a hoarse bark of laughter as she stalked closer to Ed, her eyes slowly becoming deep black pits as her clear gaze liquefied into a thick, tarlike sludge. The once familiar face before him melted away, chunks of flesh oozing alongside blood as her skull was eventually exposed.

Ed let out a howl of pure terror as he thrashed uselessly against the brambles that bound him in place, wanting desperately to escape from this horrific nightmare as a long and serpent like tongue flickered out from in between Star's jaws to lap at the viscera flowing down her face. There was nothing he could do…Ed was unable to break free as the fire only continued to burn within him, completely unhindered by his struggles…this had to be the end…

"Be still, Ed…please…Roy is right here…he is trying to help…" The gentle voice of his guardian sliced effortlessly not only through the darkness, but the thick vines that held him prisoner as well. Star's horrific visage disintegrated, being replaced by a dimly glowing light that promised nothing but comfort and peace. Ed raced desperately towards it, his aching heart pounding…hoping that this illusion would not disappear. It couldn't be him…not here in this fiery hell…

"Roy!" Ed wailed as he flung himself at the glowing form in front of him, burying his muzzle deeply into the soft white fur of Roy's chest. Tears streamed from his eyes as Ed sobbed in relief, feeling a gentle paw wrap around his trembling shoulders. "Roy…oh, Roy…E-Ed thought he was trapped here all alone…"

"It's okay, just relax…Roy has never left his pup's side…" His guardian's voice was a soft whisper that soothed Ed down to his very soul, and all he was able to do in that moment was weep in response. Ed felt completely safe with Roy, protected by his presence, and even the fire inside seemed to ease just slightly as he huddled as close to his guardian as he could get.

"Roy…please get Ed out of here…he is so scared…" While Ed could feel the darkness starting to recede, it was much too slow as memories of his earlier visions flickered behind his closed eyes. "Please…it's so hot here, Roy…why is it so hot?"

"Calm down Ed…Roy will do what he can to help…" A few moments of silence passed with nothing happening, until Ed suddenly felt an icy dampness trickling through his fur as it ran along his body. He curled in on himself with a pitiful whimper, confused and slightly terrified of what he would see if he opened his eyes.

Before he could truly panic though, a soft and gentle humming echoed in Ed's chaotic mind as the fire within began to slowly retreat in the presence of this sudden cold and wet sensation. The once thick and oppressive darkness around him soon faded as well, giving Ed the strength and courage to finally open his eyes.

The world around him was a blur of grays and greens, pale afternoon sunlight giving his surroundings a faint glow as Ed blinked away the film of slumber from his eyes. Soon he was able to recognize the now familiar walls of the den he shared with Roy, and he relaxed deeper into their mossy nest. His guardian was no longer in front of him, but Ed knew he was still there as he recognized the feeling of damp moss being gently brushed along his body.

"Roy…" Ed breathed out in a sigh of profound relief, closing his eyes in a long blink as the fire burning in his body was reduced to smoldering embers. "T-Thanks…Ed is feeling better now…"

Seeming to sense the sudden lucidity to Ed's tone, Roy stopped what he was doing to crouch down right in front of him, his onyx eyes wide with relief as he gently nuzzled Ed's cheek. "Ed? Oh, thank god he is awake now…Pup was making such terrible cries earlier, and Roy didn't know what to do…"

"Sorry…for making Roy worry…" As Ed stretched his neck forward in order to lap fondly at his guardian's cheek he winced when sudden pain shot up from his bandaged throat. With a small whimper he let his head fall back down into the moss as Roy's eyes shimmered with a sudden concern.

"Is Ed okay? What's wrong?" Roy asked as he carefully ran his muzzle along Ed's jaw, a faint sense of fear radiating from him. "Is Ed in pain? Where does it hurt?"

"It's Ed's throat…" He reached towards his bandaged wound with a single trembling paw, letting it rest softly over the binding. "It hurts when Ed moves his neck…"

Roy looked worried as he gazed back at Ed, his onyx eyes slowly looking him over as he lapped soothingly at the top of Ed's head. "Well Ed is probably due for his herbs by now…and Pup needs to eat something too. Let Roy gather what he needs and he's sure that Ed will be feeling better."

With that Roy turned away from him, busying himself with sorting through the newer herbs that Star had brought them. His guardian set aside a few fresher looking leaves and the now familiar, bitter roots that Ed had grudgingly grown used to. Before Roy moved to place the herbs in front of him, his guardian quickly crossed to the back of the den and returned shortly with the limp body of a mouse hanging from his jaws.

"The mouse might be a bit stale, since Roy caught it yesterday, but it should help Ed to get some of his strength back." Roy said as he placed the prey right in front of Ed's nose, setting it down beside a small yet still damp clump of moss.

As his guardian turned around again, gathering up his selected herbs, Ed took a hesitant sniff of the mouse. Though it must have been dead for a day now the scent still somehow remained and managed to both make his mouth water as well as turn his stomach. With the paw that had been resting on his neck, Ed weakly pushed the prey to the side, instead focusing on the wet moss as he lapped gratefully at the cold water.

"Ed isn't hungry…is he?" He looked up from the moss to gaze at Roy, who had a worried and disappointed look on his face as he placed down a few herbs where the mouse had once been. "Ed hasn't eaten in days…he needs to eat something…"

The despair in his guardian's voice cut through him like a dagger, but he couldn't help having this strange feeling. Ed's body just felt…off somehow…and he knew that a single piece of prey wouldn't do him much good at the moment anyway. Instead he regretfully shook his head before mumbling out a quiet, almost guilty response. "Ed just doesn't feel hungry for some reason…"

Though there was still an unsettling amount of unease twisting his features, Roy only let out a forlorn sigh before pushing the herbs closer with one paw. "Well Ed can at least eat his herbs, yes?"

Ed nodded, wincing when the movement sent a small jolt of pain travelling up his neck. He carefully leaned forward just enough to be able to lap up the herbs without hurting himself again, though he did shudder slightly as he crunched down on one of the roots, its pungent flavor flooding his mouth. Ed's reaction caused Roy to smile sympathetically as he leaned forward to nuzzle at his cheek before pulling back just enough so he was able to look closer at his pup's neck.

"Star said that Roy should clean Ed's wound once a day, but he will wait until the herbs have dulled the pain. How is Ed feeling right now?" His guardian was sat in front of him, looking Ed over with a critical eye as he finally managed to swallow his herbs. Ed let out a tired sigh before resting his head atop his paws, gazing lethargically up at Roy as he gathered his still jumbled thoughts.

"Honestly…Ed feels pretty bad…" He whispered in a soft voice, not wanting to worry his guardian but also not wanting to flat out lie. Instead he settled on telling him as much of the truth as he could. "His whole body aches…a-and earlier it felt like Ed was on fire before Roy helped him. Nothing feels right anymore…like Ed's body is starting to break down…I-Is Ed going to die?"

"No, of course not," Roy answered quickly as soon as the fearful question had left Ed's lips. His guardian's voice was gentle as he lapped soothingly at his cheek, nuzzling along his jaw before speaking. "Ed is just healing, all of this is normal. Star said that if Ed keeps taking his herbs and drinking water, as well as having Roy clean his wound, that he will be feeling better in no time."

Starting to feel the effects of the herbs, Ed was growing too tired to argue. He had no reason to think that Roy would lie to him about something so serious…they had always been honest with each other, brutally at times…and if Star had told his guardian that all would be well then Ed believed him.

Roy seemed to sense that the worst of Ed's pain had finally subsided enough as he gingerly nudged his pup's head to the side to better access the wound. Ed didn't resist in the slightest, just trying to stay conscious as he felt his guardian start to carefully pull the binding back. Ed felt a bit detached from himself at the moment, as though everything that was happening to him was nothing more than a vivid dream…Maybe when he woke from this one he would be feeling a bit better…

Ed absent mindedly watched Roy pull away from him to gather up the herbs he needed to clean the wound, but he could see that deep concern was gleaming in those wide onyx eyes. He sobered a bit at the sight of this sudden worry, wanting to prop himself up onto his elbows and demand an answer yet feeling too weak to even lift his heavy head. "W-What's wrong?"

"Oh, it's nothing…don't worry." Roy managed to quickly compose himself, the worry Ed had thought he'd seen vanishing in an instant as his guardian waved the question away. "Roy just thought he'd gotten the herbs mixed up, but it is fine…Ed's wound is healing nicely, Roy just needs to clean it and everything will be fine."

Ed had no energy left in him to argue, figuring that he had just misread Roy's initial reaction as his guardian began to mash up a small collection of flowers and leaves before moving to rub them into the wound. Ed didn't even feel Roy patting the herbs into the gash, or even replacing the bandage…he was just so tired right now…his body was crying out for slumber…nothing mattered at the moment but sleep…

"There, Roy has finished…is Ed okay?" His guardian's voice sounded distant, as though they were both at separate ends of a long tunnel. The soft sensation of fur brushing against his own brought Ed back to the present, and he realized then that his eyes had slid closed. With much more effort than he would have thought, Ed's eyelids flickered open to see Roy lying at his side, watching him with concern in his onyx gaze.

"E-Ed is okay…he just needs…to rest now…" Talking was so hard…his tongue felt thick and clumsy as Ed slurred his words. All he needed right now was sleep…then he would feel better…right?

Roy curled as close to Ed as he could get, wrapping his tail tightly around his pup's body as Ed let his sleep heavy head rest upon his guardian's soft paws. He could feel Roy lapping at the top of his head in a soothing gesture, whispering soft words of comfort that were too muffled for Ed to hear. The only thing he was completely sure of, as he finally lost his battle to stay conscious, was that he was safe with his guardian.

"Sleep now, Pup." Ed managed to hear as the gentle darkness returned to consume his thoughts, promising him pleasant dreams this time. "When he wakes next…everything will be better…"

~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~

"No…this is bad…very, very bad…" Roy thought to himself as he paced back and forth just inside the shelter of the den, a small rut gradually forming in the thin grass beneath his anxious paws. As he turned to continue in his pacing Roy cast a fleeting glance at the world just beyond the confines of the stone walls, seeing that a thick darkness had blanketed the surrounding forest as snow slowly drifted down from the hazy black sky, resembling stars falling from the heavens. The sun had long since set and it was growing late into the night, but Roy's ever increasing fear kept him from feeling tired.

He could remember what had happened that afternoon all too clearly, the events continuing to replay in his troubled mind. Ed had been making such heart rending cries and whimpers, trembling as he was plagued by terrible nightmares that Roy had no way of seeing or protecting his pup from. The fire burning from beneath Ed's fur had only burned hotter as the day wore on, and at first Roy had thought there was nothing he could do to help his poor, suffering pup.

Then he had remembered Star's suggestion just a day prior and had raced to dip a large clump of moss in water, nearly drenching Ed at first in a desperate attempt to ease his fever…and it had actually helped. For a moment his pup had been given a brief reprieve, even managing to regain consciousness and actually talk with Roy for the first time that day…but it had all been so terribly short lived.

Roy had known that he'd eventually have to check on Ed's wound, and he could tell without sight that it had indeed grown infected…but to actually see it for himself had been disheartening. The edges of the slowly healing gash had been an angry and raw looking red, terribly inflamed as well as slightly swollen, while an unsettling amount of heat radiated from the wound. It had taken all of Roy's willpower to not howl his sorrow and dismay aloud, just managing to hide it and lie through his teeth to Ed, telling him that everything was fine for fear of further upsetting his poor pup.

It was no wonder that Ed had absolutely no appetite or could even remain conscious for too long after he had managed to swallow down his dosage of herbs…he was only growing sicker and sicker, and it broke Roy's heart knowing that he had no clue how to help. Even Star, with her surprisingly helpful amount of knowledge, had tried her hardest. She had done all that she could with what she had access to, but there was only so much that wilted, half dead flowers and leaves could do…

The only thing Roy could think to do at this point was to keep Ed in as much of a medically induced slumber for as long as possible…hoping and praying to any higher power that his pup would be strong enough to fight off this infection. As he gazed down at Ed though, Roy was starting to doubt that the suffering chimera before him had much strength left in his frail form.

Even before losing his appetite Ed had been quite thin, but the worsening infection paired alongside the toll of having two limbs made of metal seemed to quickly burn away what little fat and lean muscle that had managed to remain on his bones. His pup's face looked hollow, shadowed eyes sunken into his skull, resting above pronounced cheekbones. Roy could nearly count each of Ed's ribs that showed through his fluffy pelt…his pup looked so terribly weak and fragile at that moment…This was bad…at this rate Ed would…

"NO. Ed will not die out here, not like this." Roy's inner voice was desperate yet firm in this thought, silently vowing to do everything he possibly could to keep his pup alive, even if it were to cost him his own life. There had to be something he could do…something neither he nor Star had thought to try yet…he just had to keep thinking until he figured out a solution…

"N-No…no, please…R-Roy…please h-help…" Immediately Roy stopped in his pacing and quickly crossed the short distance to Ed's side, crouching down in front of his pup. At first Roy had a desperate hope that Ed had actually regained consciousness, but it was quickly dashed when he saw that his pup's eyes were tightly shut.

It was then that Ed began to thrash weakly in his sleep, as though desperately trying to fight back against his blazing fever as he began to whimper and moan. "Roy…w-where is Roy?"

"It's okay, Ed…Roy is right here." Roy soothed in a soft voice just as he had done earlier in the day when Ed's fever had first taken hold. He rested a gentle paw to his pup's trembling shoulder before nuzzling comfortingly at his much too warm cheek, hoping that Ed could at least sense his touch through his fever induced nightmares. While he knew that if Ed had been awake in that moment that his pup would be upset by this decision, Roy needed to leave him for a few moments to fetch water in the hopes of easing his discomfort.

"Roy is doing everything he can to help his pup, give him a moment." He spoke softly as he lapped at the top of Ed's head, wanting to stay by his side but knowing that he needed to do something to help. With one last, quick nuzzle, Roy grabbed up a mouthful of nearby moss and raced from the den.

Once more he was grateful for the falling snow, no longer needing to search for the nearest puddle of clean water to soak the moss in. It saved Roy much needed time and he was still close enough to the den to hear if Ed happened to worsen, though hearing his distressed whimpers from afar made cracks form in his heart. Comforted by the knowledge that he would soon be back to soothe his pup, Roy buried his muzzle into the nearest pile of snow and waited for the icy crystals to melt.

As soon as the moss was dripping with frigid water Roy turned around and made his way back into the den, shaking a few stray snowflakes from his dark pelt at the entrance. A sudden idea struck him and he carried the moss over to where Star had left her supply of herbs, easily picking out some feverfew by memory of its appearance before he began to quickly yet carefully shred the leaves into small slivers. Once the herb had been thoroughly torn into fine green flecks, Roy then dabbed the wet moss into the shredded feverfew so that the water was laced with the healing herb.

Roy collected up the moss once more to place it an inch away from Ed's muzzle, moving around the feverish body before him so he was able to crouch at his pup's side while taking in his current condition. Ed was still talking, though now his words were much too quiet and slurred for Roy to make out anything discernable, and his breathing had grown labored and uneven. With a faint yet gradually increasing sense of fear coursing through him, Roy carefully tore free a small pawful of wet moss from the larger clump and placed it onto Ed's quivering flank.

He then leaned back on his haunches and used his front paws to press down onto the moss, squeezing out some water as Roy began to run the damp lichen slowly along Ed's side and back in soothing strokes. His pup's muttered words soon faded into an almost peaceful silence as the icy water gradually soaked through his tawny fur to reach the burning flesh beneath. Ed's tensed muscles began to relax while his painful sounding breaths grew deeper and more even, the worst of the fever now seemingly held at bay for the time being.

Heartened by this improvement, Roy continued on in his steady and monotonous motions, beginning to hum a faint tune with no words as Ed's fever wracked body slowly grew limp with relief. His fear slowly fading away, Roy allowed his heavy eyelids to slide closed for a moment, his own movements starting to lull him towards the tempting world of dreams. Exhaustion tugged longing at his wary soul like an impassioned lover, threatening to completely take hold of him as Roy did his best to keep the temptress known as sleep from claiming him.

The sudden and unexpected sound of vigorous lapping managed to snap Roy from his drowsy daze, and he drew back from Ed's side to turn his head towards the source of the noise. He saw that his pup was drinking eagerly from the clump of moss that Roy had left near his muzzle, heavy lidded amber eyes now open to gaze ahead at nothing.

"Ed?" Roy asked with a faint hope blossoming in his chest as he removed the moss from his pup's flank and crouched down just beside Ed. The tawny chimera's eyes were blank and hazed over from a mixture of fever and sleep, seemingly blind to the world around him as he lapped away at the wet moss, not even acknowledging Roy's presence. "Is he awake? Is Ed able to hear Roy?"

A minute or so passed until his pup's desperate lapping finally ceased, his body growing still and silent once more as Ed began to slowly return to the waking world. His pup's brow furrowed with slight confusion before he slowly turned his head to stare back at Roy, eyes bright and still clouded over by fever.

"Roy?" Ed breathed out as recognition and lucidity finally managed to push past his hazy gaze, soon being replaced by a gentle and relieved fondness. "Roy is still here…but he…Ed thought he was gone…"

With relief flowing through him like a gentle wave, Roy finally allowed his exhausted body to sink down into the moss below, pressing closer to Ed's side as he lapped warmly at his pup's cheek. It seemed as though his plan of mixing feverfew in with his pup's water had actually worked and he was unable to speak past the grateful lump lodged in his throat. Instead Roy simply wrapped his tail around Ed's body and drew him closer, resting his tired head atop his pups.

"How is Ed feeling?" Roy finally managed to ask after a few minutes of silence, worry once again taking root in his mind as he lapped softly at his pup's ears. "Is he hurting? Does he need anything?"

For a few moments Ed remained silent, his body leaning heavily against Roy's as he started to wonder if his pup had fallen asleep once more. Eventually Ed spoke up in a voice that sounded a little stronger and steadier than when he had first awoken, though Roy could still hear just how absolutely exhausted his pup was. "Ed is feeling a bit better…his body still aches…but the fire isn't as hot…Whatever Roy did, it really helped…"

"Roy mixed some feverfew into his pup's water, that must have helped with Ed's fever." Roy explained in a soft voice, nuzzling soothingly at the top of Ed's head before leaning back to look his pup over once more. Ed still looked terribly weak and frail; his half open eyes showing that he was just barely holding onto consciousness, and yet clarity shimmered in the hazy irises as he gazed unwaveringly back at Roy.

Suddenly he was able to see a very faint, yet wonderfully familiar spark in those golden depths, reminding Roy of what he had seen in Ed all those years ago when he had been reeling from another traumatic transmutation. For the first time since the battle Roy could see that there was still determination and fight within his pup, strength hidden away and muddled by a weary pain.

"Ed has to ask something…" Those brilliant eyes were once again growing rapidly cloudy from his still burning fever and Roy knew that this sudden lucidity was sadly fleeting. While there was still a magnificent tenacity flickering deep inside of Ed, his body still needed time to rest and heal. "The fire…and the pain…will it ever go away? Ed is just so tired…he feels really sick…Roy can make it stop, right?"

While his damaged heart tried it's hardest not to crack at the sorrow and uncertainty in Ed's exhausted voice, a sharp sliver managed to break free and wedge itself painfully into his chest. "Of course it will end; Roy will make sure of it. Until then though Ed needs his rest, he needs to let his body heal."

Instead of soothing his pup, as he had intended, his words only seemed to distress Ed further. Tired amber eyes grew wide with panic as his pup's fur began to bristle in fear. "N-No! Ed is tired of sleeping…tired of the nightmares…it is…it's all too much for him…"

A mixture of sorrow and guilt coursed through Roy and he did his best to hide his dismay as he lapped at Ed's cheek in an attempt to comfort him. "Is there anything that Roy can do to help with the nightmares? Can Ed hear Roy when he is asleep?"

Ed grew quiet for a moment, still trembling as his fear gradually faded while he struggled to think of an answer through the fever and exhaustion that had a firm hold over his body and mind. "Ed can hear Roy talking to him sometimes…a-and Ed can feel when Roy is next to him…but Ed is always able to hear a humming sound…Does Roy do that?"

With a faint sense of relief slowly washing away his own anxiety, Roy nodded as he cast a fond glance in his pup's direction, staring deeply into those hazed and worried eyes. "Yes, Roy will hum sometimes. If it helps to keep the nightmares away though, then Roy will do it as much as he can."

At last Ed's terror faded away, seemingly comforted by his guardian's words as his rounded eyes slowly began to slide closed. The yellow orbs snapped open in an attempt to remain conscious, but Roy could tell that Ed was fading fast as his pup's body began to sag heavily against Roy's side. "Thanks…Ed trust Roy completely…he knows that Roy would never lie to him…Ed feels so safe…"

As he spoke, Ed's head dropped down onto Roy's paws with a soft thud, his breath rustling through the fur of Roy's chest as his pup finally allowed his tired body to give in to slumber. In response Roy buried his muzzle deeply into the long, soft fur that ran down Ed's neck, wrapping his tail protectively around the golden chimera's body.

"It is okay, Ed can go to sleep now. Roy will always be there for his pup." Roy gently murmured into his pup's ear, though he doubted that Ed had completely heard him. Instead Roy began to hum the same tune he had earlier, the sound echoing off the den's stone walls as he felt his pup's body finally go limp.

As he continued to hum, listening to Ed's breaths as they grew deep and relaxed, Roy's earlier concerns for his pup's wellbeing slowly came stalking back into his mind. Roy closed his eyes and burrowed as close to Ed as he possibly could, wishing that his own fears could be so easily chased away.

Even after cooling his pup down with both wet moss and feverfew Ed was still as sick as ever, his fever burning beside Roy and scorching through his own pelt. It seemed as though the herbs Star had been using to keep Ed stable were slowly starting to lose their effectiveness…and if that truly was the case then what was left for Roy to do?

A sudden and seemingly crazy idea struck him so hard that Roy went completely silent, his heart hammering in his chest as he tried to catch his breath…tried to make sense of this revelation. There truly was one thing that both he and Star had completely overlooked, and probably for good reason…but it had to be worth a shot…right?

To test out this new idea though both Roy and Ed would need to leave the den they had called home for so long…leaving everything behind them in this last ditch effort to possibly save both their lives. Though the thought of making this journey with a barely conscious and feverish Ed sounded foolish, there was nothing left to try. Roy would wait until the sun had risen again to even begin to attempt it…but if his plan worked…

The sudden relief at having a new, clear goal ahead of him was enough for Roy to let his already tedious grasp over his own consciousness slip. As sleep finally claimed him as well, Roy curled close to his already slumbering pup and allowed the darkness to overtake him.

There was still one faint hope left at saving Ed.


Well it seems things aren't going too well for both Ed and Roy at the moment. I wonder what Roy has in mind to fix things though...

Man, it felt like this chapter took forever to write. There were just a ton of obstacles in my real life that got in the way, but most of them have been settled now, thank god lol.

I am currently just starting the 17th chapter, so I have no real clue when it will be finished. I'd say give me a month or so and it should be at least very close to being done. Again, that is if nothing comes up in my real life that prevents me from writing, but I'll keep you all updated on my profile as I try to update it at least once a week.

I hope you all enjoy this chapter, and I also want to thank you all again for the favorites, follows, and reviews on not just this story, but all of mine as a whole. It truly makes me happy that people are still enjoying my old stories, and seeing the support this one is getting is just awesome. You guys are great and I'm sending internet hugs to you all!

Anyway I shall see you all in the next chapter!

:3