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Chapter Text

It was a vicious sort of pain. One that was all encompassing, blazing like blinding white fire. It started at his head, and crawled its way down to his fingertips, through his chest and arms, and down into his toes. Ed struggled to remember what exactly had happened to cause such an enormous dose of pain. The memory didn’t come to him. He wished it would, it would make it easier to assess the damage and get himself back onto his feet. 

There was a gurgling noise, and it took Ed several seconds to decipher if it was someone else making the noise, or if it was actually him . In the end, it seemed to be him, wheezing out wet breaths. It made him aware of two things, at least. 

One, that his chest ached, but at least he could feel it now. 

Two that his mouth tasted bad, something bitter and unusual. 

Another noise. This one was much harder to understand, but it was someone else. Far off, but getting closer. It set Ed’s frayed nerves alight, and he realized there was something else to him but pain. He felt fear stab into his chest, tightening it and making breathing even more difficult. He tried to curl tight, roll into a defensive ball when the noise got louder and closer and closer and–

–Hands clamped down on his shoulders causing him to yelp out in pain. He struggled to pull himself tighter, but the hands dragged his torso away from his knees, exposing all of his weak points. Another set of hands grabbed his shins and straightened them out on the floor as his shoulders were pressed to lay down. He bucked, struggling and shaking against the hands, but he was too weak for any leverage to be gained. Finally, he stopped, too exhausted and blinded by whatever had happened to him to keep fighting. Which was strange, because he was still shaking, the hands on his shoulders still moving. But he’d stopped moving, so what…?

“–d” 

“W–-Fu---Me-t–”

“EDWARD!” Someone was shaking him awake, shouting his name into his sensitive ears. He groaned, letting his head loll to the side before finally prying his heavy, sticky eyes open. What he saw, he couldn’t make out for a moment before it started to make sense. Someone he knew, though couldn’t place yet, hovered over him. “I’m sorry for jostling you, but you can’t fall asleep, Ed.” They explained, but Ed didn’t understand what they were talking about. He tried to ask, but opening his mouth only made something thick and coppery slide past his tongue and down his chin. Someone gasped, then, “Stay with me, Fullmetal.” Ed wished he knew what that meant. Stay with who? Why? Besides, it wasn’t like he was going anywhere, between his exhaustion and pain, and hands hovering around him if he tried to move, he really wasn’t in any shape to leave. Then again, maybe he was moving, considering it felt like his head was floating, though only for a moment. 

The words got strange again, harder to hear like they were on Fuery’s radio when it was acting up. Oh yeah , the military. ‘His’ team was probably cursing his existence right now. He wasn’t sure what had happened, but in the end it would probably chalk up to Roy giving Ed a violently dull lecture, which would boil into Ed’s blood and make him feel even worse. 

He tried to open his eyes again. If he survived all of this, Roy would want to know what these people looked like. Desperately, Ed tried to make sense of the blurry figures. Tall shapes moved around him, white gloves, black boots, a steely expression. Nothing helpful. “Ro-” Edward attempted to speak, but all that came out was a raspy croak that split his throat with considerable pain. He groaned, and tried to curl up again. The hands were less insistent this time, but still openly refused his wishes by keeping him still stretched out. 

“St–do-n’t––order, full–” That voice again. It was deep, rumbled behind Edward’s head and made him wonder when it had suddenly elevated from the ground. It was pillowed on something softer, but sort of coarse, when Ed focused really hard on the feeling alone. He groaned one final time to voice his displeasure, but nothing came of it. 

It took a few minutes to make sense of things, a hand in his hair, slowly running through tangled knots. People speaking, words and sentences he couldn’t decipher or string together. Fingers pressed to his pulse, lingering there as if waiting for it to suddenly stop. 

Ed wanted to know what was going on. Wanted to open his eyes and see clearly, wanted to strain his ears and hear clearly, wanted his body to move on command like it was supposed to. “Ugh…” Ed mumbled. He tried to force his automail arm to bend under him and hoist up. At first it felt like it might have stalled, and it very nearly had, but suddenly it creaked to life and began to move. It took a considerable amount of concentration to move it. The strain on his muscles and nerves was sparking pain all through him. Still, he needed to know what was going on. He was most likely still in danger, and while these people weren’t hurting him yet, he had no idea what they were planning to do. Remembering this lit a fire in Ed. He was moving now, even if it was without much strength or thought. He had to keep going. Finally, his arm jerked down, bent a little at the elbow, and propped up like a support beam. He tried to lift himself up, but his chest spasmed with pain, and he yelped, arm locking up. His eyes opened, wildly searching for answers, but it was all too bright. Too blurry. 

The voices were louder now, practically shouting. He squeezed his eyes shut. The hand at his pulse point disappeared, and the hands in his hair stilled to press lightly to the crown of his head. The other hand, the one on the pulse point–or maybe even some else entirely–snaked around his collar bones, across his chest. The arm clamped down, keeping his chest pinned. Edward did not like this. The sudden feeling of being trapped– he knew it! They were here to hurt him, he knew it, he couldn’t… couldn’t – Edward’s legs kicked out, weakly, with little range of motion, but enough. He flailed to the best of his abilities, and the arm pressed harder. There was warmth, hot breath by his ear, it gave him goosebumps, and he struggled to hear. 

“St–It’s m– Ed-ard .” 

It didn’t make sense. He was trying and trying, and failing. His energy and adrenaline were running out, leaving him with exhaustion. He felt his chin tighten, his lips quivering. What was even happening? Was he crying? He couldn’t tell, but whatever it was made his headache feel worse and the muscles in his face ache from sensitivity. 

“Edward. ” Ed heard that word at least. His own name wasn’t very helpful, however. 

But he heard it again, a few more times. “Edward, It’s okay.” That voice… 

It was the Colonel. Ed felt his body go slack from relief. The bastard Colonel wouldn’t let his ticket to stardom get hurt. He’d have hell to pay from Riza, anyhow. And if the Colonel was here, chances were she was too. He felt even safer at that thought, letting his head roll onto whatever the soft thing below him was. Opening his eyes again felt considerably harder then, and with them closed he was blessedly free of the burning lights no matter how dimmed they were. The hands in his hair started back up again, and Ed had half a mind to hate it. It was probably the enemy toying with Mustang. But… It did feel nice. It didn’t make the task of staying awake easier either. Now that his adrenaline was gone and his breathing had evened, it was near impossible to stay awake. If he even counted as being such, just close enough to consciousness. But Ed was lost in a hazy fog he couldn’t clear his mind of. 

It felt hellish, and with the sweet escape of sleep so close, he couldn’t help but give into it. The voices got louder, he was being shaked again, but at that point, Ed had already decided to give in. 

~~( _   _ )…zzzZzZZZ~~

Everything was dulled. So dulled that Ed couldn’t feel or sense much outside of his head and chest. His eyes were plastered shut, impossible to even twitch. His mouth felt thick, and too heavy to even think about. His head ached, but not strongly so. Edward’s chest felt compressed, and every breath felt oddly shallow. 

After acknowledging those sensations, others began to trickle through. His legs and arms came next, buzzing with itchy numbness. They were heavy too. Ed wouldn’t bother with them at all. 

Once he’d gotten reacclimated to his body as a whole, he heard. Nothing of substance. Beeping, labored breathing, rain, crack of thunder. It was hard to hear, and he strained to make out what he could. There was something else too, louder than all that. It was like a flush of white noise, pressing against his consciousness, coaxing it out. In truth, it was annoying. Ed wished it would stop. Turn off whatever fan was running, whatever machine was whizzing. 

In hopes of stopping said drone of noise, Ed made a feeble attempt to open his eyes. His lids felt glued together, glossy and sticky. Gross , he thought somewhat more coherently than before. 

It took a bit more work to peel his eyes open, only to immediately regret it. Light flooded his senses, and without any thinking, his lips parted to make way for a loud groan. His fingers twitched, then hands balled into the sheet. Edward tried again. He had to. He wasn’t sure why, but the more lucid he got, the more his heart stirred with the need to move. 

That awful noise got louder. More of it, overlapping. It was like a crowd was all around him, being awfully loud. If Ed could just wake up , he could tell them all to shut up , or leave himself.

Edward’s tongue clicked against his teeth, and the roof of his mouth. His eyes opened again, and he forced them to stay that way with much effort. 

Oh. It wasn’t a running fan, it wasn’t a machine. 

“...Al.” Ed said. His voice was hoarse, and every word scratched his throat. 

“Oh, brother!” Alphonse blubbered. Despite not having any eyes or mouth to cry with, his disembodied voice didn’t fail to convey such an emotion. “I was so worried brother. ” He said, reaching out a tentative hand. Al had always been like this, afraid to reach out and touch. He didn’t know his own strength, and the fear of exacerbating wounds always won out. 

Ed wanted to close the gap, wanted to reach out to his brother and reassure him. He was fine, Al shouldn’t worry. There was no reason to. But Edward’s arms were weak, limp. His hands twitched, and his upper arm made an aborted attempt to move, to reach. 

Alphonse saw, scooting closer. His armor clanged with the movement, and from where it’d smacked into the cot’s metal frame. “Sorry brother,” Al said when Ed cringed, “How’re you feeling?” He asked. Finally, he reached his hand out and dropped in gently onto Ed’s shoulder. The feeling of leather against his bare shoulder was odd. Ed realized then he really must’ve been in the hospital. It made sense, afterall. 

It took Edward a moment to conjure the strength to speak again. “F-Fine.” Edward said. Ever so slowly, he raised his flesh hand to rub at his throat. “ Water ,” He added shortly after. 

Alphonse didn’t move, but someone else did. Edward hadn’t even noticed they weren’t alone. But sure enough, someone else was moving, shuffling, and offering a glass. It took up Ed’s view. He struggled to reach out and grab it. Unsatisfied, the glass’ current holder moved again. The glass was pressed even closer to Ed’s face, making his eyes cross as he focused on it. “Wha…” He said, but didn’t get to ask much else before the glass touched his lips. 

“Drink, Fullmetal. I don’t trust you to hold it.” 

Oh, man, Edward knew that voice. 

“B…astard.” The cup smacked into his teeth. Not painfully so, but more than enough to still Ed’s defiant curses. 

“Just drink the water, Fullmetal. It sounds like you’ve swallowed glass.” Colonel Mustang said. When Edward managed to finally look over the rim of the glass, Mustang’s face was deadpan. He pulled back, and handed the cup to Alphonse. Edward hoped that his facial expression conveyed his hatred over not being allowed to hold his own cup. 

“Try not to over exert yourself now that you’re awake, Fullmetal,” Mustang said, and when Ed made a worse face, “Don’t act like you won’t. You’re my subordinate afterall, I know you well.” 

Edward wanted to dispute that, to call him a liar. Mustang only saw what he wanted to see. That, and what Ed allowed him to see. But before Ed could call him out, Mustang had exited the room. He was only just now seeing it, registering where exactly he was. However, it was hard to keep up with the movements and new information, so Edward turned to look back at his very still brother. 

“At least he knows he isn’t wanted.” Edward grumbled. Alphonse stiffened, armor audibly clacking together. 

“Don’t say that, brother. He hasn’t left once .” Alphonse said, voice gentle and empathetic. It wasn’t out of character by any means, but only served to drive the irritatingly confusing point home more. 

“He… he what ?”

Chapter Text

“Try not to over exert yourself now that you’re awake, Fullmetal,” Mustang said, and when Ed made a worse face, “Don’t act like you won’t. You’re my subordinate afterall, I know you well.” Edward wanted to dispute that, to call him a liar. Mustang only saw what he wanted to see. That, and what Ed allowed him to see. But before Ed could call him out, Mustang had exited the room.

“At least he knows he isn’t wanted.” Edward grumbled. Alphonse stiffened, armor audibly clacking together. 

“Don’t say that, brother. He hasn’t left once .” Alphonse said, voice gentle and empathetic. It wasn’t out of character by any means, but only served to drive the irritatingly confusing point home more. 

“He… he what ?” Ed exclaimed, and immediately regretted it. His side lit up like fire. Everything whited out for a dreadful moment. Finally, it ebbed away enough for Ed to see and hear again. He blinked eyes wildly, and breathed in ragged, painful bursts. 

“Ed? Are you with me?” Alphonse asked, but his voice sounded so far away. It took Edward a few more seconds before he could reply. He swallowed thickly, and nodded, not finding his voice. “You know, Colonel Mustang is right. You really do need to be careful, brother.” Al said nervously. His hands hovered around Ed again, unsure if it was a good idea to make contact. For once, Ed was thankful. He wasn’t sure he could handle it. 

“He… he’s never right.” Ed huffed out. It was still painful to breathe. Alphonse made an exacerbated noise, and Ed tried to calm himself down for his brother’s sake. Well, and his own. The pain in his side was like fire licking at his skin and muscles.

 “Hey…Al?” Ed ventured. Slowly scooting his blanket further down himself, Ed tried to find the origin of his pain.

“Yes, brother?” 

“Why am… I in the hospital?”

The words were hard to form and speak for Ed. His tongue felt thick and cottony. It took considerable effort to think of what words to actually use as well. His thoughts felt slower, but put together enough. However, his ability to speak seemed to be lagging behind him. Most likely from whatever drugs they’d been pumping in his system. Great . 

Alphonse’s large armor hands fidgeted awkwardly. “Well, Brother… Colonel Mustang and Lieutenant Hawkeye told me…” Al seemed upset and nervous just thinking about it. Damn, Ed really messed up. “They said when you went to interview a witness on your current case, a fight broke out and they, well, stabbed you.” 

Ed felt himself still. He didn’t get a chance to pull back the hospital gown. No point in it now. Gently, he laid a hand over his wounded side. It tingled with an itchy pain at the light contact. “Jeez. I bet that wasn’t pretty.” Ed tried to play it off. But there was a stillness to Alphonse that Ed knew all too well. “I… I’m okay, Al, really. I’m sure I was just being impulsive.” Ed placated. 

Al just shook his head. The metal plated clinked together loudly. As if a bell ringing out to mark the end of Ed’s energy. “You still look really tired, brother. You should try to go back to sleep.” Al said, grabbing the edge of the blanket and pulling it back for Ed. 

Ed sighed, while it was true, he didn’t want to go back to sleep. God knows how long he’d been asleep for. Besides, he’d messed up by getting stabbed on what was supposed to be an easy investigation. “I’m fine.” Ed said, a bit labored, “Besides, I’m not sure my side will allow that.” He huffed. 

Al did what was an equivalent to a frown with his metal body. “Brother! That’s really not good. The doctors said you should feel discomfort, but not pain so early after waking up.” Al explained anxiously, “I’ll go grab a nurse. Colonel Mustang probably told someone already that you were awake.” 

“ Great .” Ed deadpanned, but he had to admit he was flagging. He wasn’t exactly on board with getting pumped full of more drugs, but what could he do? It’s not like Al or Colonel Bastard would let him get away with dealing with the pain. 

Ed watched Al shuffle out of the room. He let himself sink back into the pillows. It was hard to keep his eyes open, and his thoughts straight. However, the pain in his stomach wasn’t dull enough to let him sleep. 

Time seemed to lull alongside Ed’s senses in Al’s absence. 

The pressure in his side seemed to grow. 

Ed could practically feel the knife under his skin. 

Pressing in further. Slicing through skin and muscles. 

And he could hear it. A question, over and over and over and over and over and over and–

“Ed? Are you alright, honey?” A light feminine voice asked. Ed’s eyes snapped open, breaths coming in and out in tight bursts. He tried not to squirm his way right out of the cot at her approaching figure. He wasn’t gutless enough for that. “Your brother told me you were feeling some pain. Can you describe it to me?” 

Ed really didn’t want to, but he found that giving the doctors what they wanted made them go away faster. “It,” he breathed heavily, “ is at the stab wound ,” he withheld the very snarky ‘duh’ . “It’s sharp, and all around it is sore.” Withheld another very snarky ‘duh’ . Alphonse would be disappointed at him being rude to a blameless nurse. 

The nurse nodded. “Well that’s to be expected.” 

Duh. 

“How strong would you say the pain is? Some pain and discomfort is usual, but you’ve probably started to cycle the painkillers out of your system.” She said, standing next to Ed’s Iv. She checked the bag, and trailed the line down to the crook of his flesh arm. It was strange, but Ed hadn’t even noticed the IV until that moment. 

“Strong enough that he can’t sleep.” Al piped up unhelpfully. Ed clenched his jaw. 

“It’s not that bad. But I can feel it more.” Ed clarified. The nurse looked between the both of them. She smiled and shook her head, almost fond. Ed didn’t like that. She didn’t know them. There was nothing to be fond of. Decidedly, he didn’t like her. 

“Alright, well I’ll give you some more medication for the pain,” The nurse said. Her name tag was too hard to read, even when Ed strained his eyes. “I’m going to check your temperature now.” She said, and held a thermometer close to his face. Ed had half a mind to keep his mouth closed, but relented. The glass thermometer was pressed under his tongue, and he watched as the mercury moved. The nurse pulled it back and frowned. “Well, it seems your fever hasn’t gone down since the last time. It should be alright, as long as it doesn’t raise anymore.” She explained. 

Alphonse kept fidgeting. Ed wished the nurse would leave. 

“Should I tell your father?” The nurse asked with a soft smile. Ed and Al paused. Update who exactly? “Would you know if he would be at the military office, or not? I’m not sure which contact to use.” She said amicably. 

Alphonse put his hands up, awkward and placatingly. “Oh, no, there’s been some confusion! He isn’t–” 

“That bastard is NOT our father!!” Ed practically shrieked, only to immediately regret it. 

“Brother!”

“Edward, please!”  

“I’m sorry if I upset you, but you need to be still!” The nurse scolded. She quickly began to fuss all about Edward. Fixing his IV, forcing him to lay down, fixing the pillows. “My goodness, you need to keep your temper in control.” The nurse chided, albeit not unkindly. “I understand this must be such a stressful time for you, but too much movement will hurt your wound.” 

“He’s usually like this.” Alphonse added unhelpfully. Ed scowled at him, the traitor. 

After that, things seemed to calm down. The drugs finally began to dull Ed’s pain, and after his few too many out bursts, he was exhausted. It wasn’t hard after that to fall asleep. Slipping into sleep wasn’t exactly peaceful for Ed, however. Nightmares ran rampant between his fever and the drugs. Whatever had happened during Ed’s time on assignment was lingering. Shooting pain and horrid images behind his eyes as he slept. 

But when he woke up groggy, and sore, and feverish, he couldn’t remember what exactly had happened. How could it have gone so wrong? Wrong enough for the famous FullMetal Alchemist to get stabbed by some random nobody? 

“Edward? Are you awake?” A woman asked. Maybe he was, it was hard to tell. He couldn’t really feel his body, and his awareness had depleted drastically since his last stint with consciousness. “If you can speak, please try.” 

Edward groaned, upset at such a prospect. He didn’t want to force his dry throat and heavy tongue to make words. Someone’s blessedly cool hand brushed against his forehead. Someone was speaking too, but Ed couldn’t make sense of it. He opened his mouth to ask, but whatever he said must have been gibberish. The world swirled around him in an indiscernible way. 

When Ed finally pried his eyes open, it was dark inside the room. He blinked a few times, eyes sore. His vision was blurry at first, but when it finally cleared Riza was in his face. She was speaking, and checking him over, and brushing his hair away from his face. “Riza,” Edward mumbled, and she stopped. 

“Yes, Edward?” She asked, although it took Ed a second to process her words. 

“I’m surprised he didn’t call you lieutenant.” Someone complained. 

“You’re just upset he still called you colonel and bastard.” Riza replied, looking over her shoulder. 

“Colonel ‘s here?” Ed slurred, reaching out to grasp at Riza’s arm. She smiled down at him, removing his hand and laying it flat on the blanket. 

“Yes, Edward. The Colonel is sitting next to your brother, can you see them?” she asked. Ed strained his eyes, and made out the blobs of his brother and superior. After that extremely difficult and draining task, he closed his eyes and leaned back. Risa fussed about him some more, most of which went completely ignored. That was, until a cold rag laid across his forehead. She was explaining why something so heinous was there, but Ed didn’t understand her. Admittedly, he forgot about the rag almost immediately. It was hard to stay awake, much less lucid enough to notice something so insignificant. 

As he began to drift, Ed could swear he heard something. The darkness of his eyelids and the disconnect from his surroundings seemed to amplify the voice. 

Tell me the truth

Chapter Text

Edward couldn’t stop fidgeting. His fever had lessened, merely low-grade. But it still wasn’t gone. The doctors kept fussing around him as his brother and superiors watched on like mother hens. 

It was uncomfortable, to say the least. Edward hated hospitals. And doctors. And needles. And people treating him like a kid. He was perfectly capable, and perfectly fine. All he needed was rest and a few weeks off of duty. 

Of course, the doctors, and Colonel Bastard felt otherwise. 

“I would like to discharge you, Edward.” Said a Doctor. Before Edward could count his blessings however, “But, you and your brother are both minors. Not to mention this is still an active crime investigation.” She tutted. 

Where was she going with this? Edward was originally the one leading said crime investigation, so he wasn’t sure what their age had to do with anything. 

“Now, don’t get me wrong, you and your brother are capable.” Yes, he and Al most certainly were. “But a stab wound is nothing to blink at, and the fact your temperature hasn’t completely returned to normal is concerning. I’d like to discharge you into the care of an adult to help you look after the wound.” She explained. Edward stiffened in the bed, biting back all of his many complaints. It would only serve to hurt his side more, and make him seem even more like a kicked puppy. 

“I can look after it just fine.” He said through gritted teeth. Anything else, and he might’ve just exploded at the doctor right then and there. “I’ve dealt with wounds during assignment before, it’s fine .” he urged. In his annoyance, he missed the way both Roy and Riza cringed at the declaration. 

The doctor just sighed, and put her clipboard down. “I can see that from your chart.” she said, “But truly, Edward this is different from those. Stab wounds are very precarious things. One wrong move and you’ll split your stitches,” and with the most pointed look, “Or worse, it’ll get infected.” 

Mustang rose up from his seat. “It’s alright, doctor.” he said pleasantly. “Edward is rather… stubborn.” he smirked, as if stubborn was the nicest word there was to describe him. “If you’ll give me the discharge papers, I’ll happily sign them.” Mustang extended a gloved hand. He had such a pompous look and tone of voice that Ed couldn’t help it. 

“Hell no! No way!” He shouted, looking like a feral cat ready to run. Alphonse put his hands out placatingly. 

“Please, brother relax.” there was an edge of worry to his voice. 

Edward knew that caring for his temperature and cut would be left all to himself. Not only would he not want to burden Al with that, he couldn’t. Alphonse couldn’t feel his temperature in his sleep, or smell if Ed had somehow gotten sick. He’d need verbal cues, and a thermometer to know anything was wrong if it wasn’t outright visible. 

Still, Edward knew he could do it himself. He’d been doing everything himself. This was no different. Did they really think he was so useless? 

“No, Al. You really want me to stay at Colonel’s and leave you by yourself for days–maybe even weeks?” Edward asked, flustered. “I don’t think so-” 

“I thought you both would come.” 

That paused Edward and Al dead in their tracks. They turned their heads from each other to Mustang, who was holding the clipboard now. He was so nonchalant, confused as to why either boy thought otherwise. The confusion broke out in that same, obnoxious smirk again. “Trust me, I know better than to separate you two.” he looked back to the clipboard, signing his scrawling signature, “Besides, if you both come, Edward can’t complain.” 

“Hell yes I can! Cross out your damn name, I can consent myself.” Edward snapped, scrambling for better purchase in the bed. He stretched his arms out, hoping for the clipboard and papers. 

“Oh, so you’ll consent to being discharged into my care? Guess I was right.” Mustang said, handing the clipboard back to the doctor, “Guess we don’t need your signature.” Edward let out a loud string of curses. 

The doctor looked between Mustang and Edward and sighed. “Please lower your voices, you’re not the only patient in here.” She said with a firmness akin to Riza. That was probably why both of them shut up immediately. 

Riza herself stood up, “Please forgive their lack of awareness,” she said, “They’re not used to being second in the limelight.” There was a small, smug smirk on her face. Almost not there, but enough for Roy and Ed to flare up in indignance and shame. “I’ll go bring the car around, sir.” Riza said, and left the room. 

“I’ll be back in one moment.” the doctor said, and followed Riza out. 

Edward crossed his arms over his chest, higher than usual so as to not upset his side. “I’m not staying with you. Just have the lieutenant drop us off at our apartment.” Edward huffed. Alphonse stayed unhelpfully quiet on the matter. 

“No, I will not, Fullmetal. Unless you want to ask her yourself.” Edward had nothing else to say, just as Roy thought. 

The doctor came back in before any more arguing could commence. She helped Ed with his IV, and gave him a bundle of hospital issued clothes. They looked big, even from where they were folded. “Walking may be painful for you, so I brought a wheelchair just in case.” Edward felt scrutinized under everyones expecting looks. 

He was sure he could walk. He was 90% sure he could walk. He was sorta sure he could walk. Ed was fine . The wound was fine . Everything was fine , and not all starting to feel worse now that drugs were leaving him and their sterile blank-ness was going too. 

Whether he was sure or not, he was about to find out. His sluggish arms peeled back the thin blanket. Ed started to shift his lower half to the edge of the cot, and immediately felt his side pull with pain. His jaw tensed, and he pushed on. His legs felt stiff, and weak as they made contact with the tile. It was freezing, and sent jolts up his legs, torso and spine. The sudden shiver made his side light up. Ed clamped his hand around his middle and took a few deep breaths. 

Mustang said something about taking it easy. Edward ignored him. Alphonse said something about helping, and Ed waved him off with a pinched smile. 

Stumbling to the bathroom was an easy task. He was fine. He snatched the stack of clothes off of the bed, and felt his automail fingers move sluggishly. They always got sticky when he was in pain, like his body couldn’t spare the energy to power it. 

He slowly shuffled over to the bathroom, crammed the door open, and slipped inside. It was an uncomfortably long amount of time before he came out. If anyone on the other side heard his myriad of swearing, they didn’t say anything. The doctor was gone now, and all that was left was an impatient Mustang and a nervous stilted Al. 

The wheelchair sat innocently next to the cot he’d previously been inhabiting. Fuck no. 

Edward tried his best to saunter past it, and made his way to the door. “You sure you don’t want the wheelchair, Fullmetal? You look white as a sheet.” Mustang commented. And yes, that was probably Ed’s last straw. He whipped around, hand pointing accusingly. However, he only managed a single step and deep inhale before he crumpled. 

Too much, all at once. Whether Ed wanted to or not, he was sitting in the wheelchair. And whether he wanted it or not, Riza Hawkeye was driving him to the Bastard’s flat– where he’d undoubtedly be a prisoner for some unforeseen time. Goddammit .

Chapter Text

The hospital issued clothes were uncomfortable as expected. He’d made a comment about transmuting them to his liking, but the look Mustang gave him made him think better of it. Not that he did anything to agree with Mustang, but he didn’t want to hear anything about transmuting whilst injured. A lecture right now would only serve to make him feel worse. 

Admittedly, Edward was actually extremely tired. Exhaustion thrummed under his skin and deep into his bones. All he’d done was get out of bed and get dressed. It was pathetic how winded he’d gotten, how he’d nearly fainted just from pointing. 

So, sue him if he leaned over onto Al’s cold plated arm. And sue him if Riza and Roy’s quiet discussion about god knows what was starting to lull him to sleep. 

“Brother? We’re here.” Al said softly, and Ed’s head jerked up. He rubbed his mouth, and looked around. He’d rarely ever seen or been to Mustang’s apartment. Edward wondered how Mustang intended to fit the two of them. 

Maybe, Mustang would find the undertaking too large. Maybe, Mustang would do what everyone did eventually with the Elric brothers. 

Somehow, the thought felt much more sour than Ed was expecting. He wanted to be rid of Mustang, and yet… 

“Will you need help getting out of the car?” Al asked, drawing Ed’s attention back. They couldn’t take the wheelchair, both blessedly and cursed. Ed had his pride, he wasn’t some wounded dog. But at the same time, he was wounded. There was a difference there, even if the others didn’t seem to quite notice that. 

“No, I'll be fine.” Edward said confidently. He was just thankful to have his shoes again. The ground had been so awfully cold in the hospital, and every second with socks and shoes was practically painful. 

Edward found that walking with his regular gait was much more difficult now. It sent spikes of agitation reeling through his stitched side. He hunched his back, and made his steps smaller. It helped to ease the pain, but by the time they’d made it from the car-park to the front of the apartment, he was winded. Sweat beaded on his face and stuck all of his stray hairs to skin. 

Al had braided it for him when he was finally lucid enough to ask. However, the large build of the suit of armor didn’t make it very easy for him. The braid wasn’t awfully tight or well put together. Just another thing for Ed to feel guilty for. Al had always loved to marvel in and praise the small details, the gentler things. Ed had robbed him of better control over his fine motor skills, robbed him of the gentleness he’d carried since birth. 

“Edward?” Riza’s voice cut through the thick sound of panting. 

“Yes?” Ed asked, sluggishly turning to face her. He had the majority of his weight leaning on the brick wall. 

“Are you alright?” She asked. It was purely for show, to see what Ed wanted and how he’d react. Even if he wasn’t so obviously winded, nothing ever got past the ‘Hawk’s Eyes’. 

“Fine.” Ed managed through labored breaths. “I just, got a bit winded.” He said, and wiped his brow. How embarrassing. Mustang was giving him a look out of the corner of his eye as he unlocked the apartment’s front door. Edward wished he’d mind his own damn business. 

The three followed Mustang inside. A warm burst of air fell over them. Edward wasn’t sure whether to be happy or not. The hospital clothes were baggy at best, pant legs dragging and hems hanging low. His collarbones and the tops of his shoulders had been exposed to the awful chill. His automail port detested the exposure to such cold air. 

But he was somehow warm at the same time, exhausted from the walk, and needing all the fresh air he could get. It was stifling inside, and he was sweating more. 

“It’s on the second floor, this way.” Mustang said. Edward must’ve turned some shade of white or green, because Colonel quickly added, “This way to the elevator.” 

The elevator ride was dizzying for Edward. The air was stifling, and his panting awkwardly overshadowed the would-be silence. How awful, he thought miserably. His side was hurting the more he was standing, and the more it hurt the more faint he felt. What should be a very reasonable task had suddenly turned tedious, and from there, painful. But Edward could do this, he was very certain of said fact. 

Or, he was until suddenly his view of the cramped space suddenly started to teeter. It tilted to the side, and the loud echoing sound of armor plates cramming together shocked him. Then, he couldn’t see much of anything. 

“Edward?” Who was that? Some woman’s voice kept coaxing a reaction out of him. He was too tired for that. 

Wait, no, he wasn’t. He knew that voice. He was perfectly fine, and to prove his point, he attempted to snip out a response to Riza. 

“That was hardly a response, Fullmetal. Try again.” Roy said condescendingly. 

“Bastard.” 

“Well, he seems fine enough.” That was Riza. Thank god she was the only one here with any sense. Of course he was fine. “Al, are you okay to carry him? Colonel or I can as well.” 

“Wha’ no,” Ed said sluggishly, trying to get his feet back under him. It was a fruitless endeavor. Just as he’d regained his sight, the world spun all around again, metal plates and leather gloves sliding under him. Ed shook with every heavy step Al took, and couldn't help the gaining nausea. “M’ gonna puke.” Ed croaked out helplessly at last. 

A small trash bin was shoved into his line of sight. “Try not to miss the bucket, Fullmetal, this carpet is new.” The bastard said from somewhere close and faraway at the same time. 

Edward groaned. He didn’t want to puke. If Al just set him down then–

Oh, he was set down. On some gray, boring couch. “Yer apartment is ugly.” Edward snorted, beforing covering his mouth. The Colonel bristled, but didn’t say anything about the rude comment, or how Edward’s Resembool accent slipped out. 

“Be nice, Brother. The Colonel is letting us stay here.” Al said. His voice sounded so far away, and Edward couldn’t help the spike of worry. He reached out blindly, world still spinning despite being stationary. “I’m here brother.” Al said, voice echoing closer again. Edward could see the metal plates in his vision, and let his eyes slip close. 

“I’m going to lay a cold compress on your forehead, Edward. There’s a bucket next to you if you still feel sick.” Riza’s even voice called out. Ed nodded, before tucking his head into his chest. The cold compress oozed cool water down his forehead and eyebrows. It eased the pounding in his head, but his skin itched further. When the awkward sensation subsided, Edward forced himself to listen in. 

“Why did Brother collapse like that?” Al asked nervously, “He wasn’t looking too good, but he’s not hurt, is he?” 

“No, I suspect he overexerted himself. He’s still healing, and has a low grade fever.” Riza said levelly. Al sighed, the kind of disappointed sigh that said Ed had done something wrong again. But it was hardly Ed’s fault. A walk into an apartment shouldn’t be enough to tire him out this badly. 

“Stop eavesdropping, Fullmetal.” Roy said from somewhere above. 

Edward sputtered immediately, scrambling upwards. “I was not!” 

“Don’t yell. And you were, your whole body was twisted in their direction.” Ed could hear the smirk in his voice. Still, Ed relented. His head was hurting worse from the sudden movement, and his stomach churned ominously. Slowly, he shifted back down and pressed the cloth back to his forehead. 

At some point, Ed must have closed his eyes. When he was gently shook awake once more, he was struck with a sudden anxiety. 

Where was he? 

Then he saw it. The lieutenant's face, smoothed out of all worry or fear. 

If Riza was here, then Edward was certainly safe. She may have been more of Mustang’s guard dog than anyone else’s, Riza was no stranger to helping others. And she had the strength and composure to pull it off. Not like the Colonel, useless when wet and too snarky to focus. Truly, it was a blessing Riza was always with him, and a miracle she still was at that. 

“Do you think you can eat, Edward?” Riza asked, extending a steaming bowl of soup towards him. Edward sat up gingerly. His throat was dry, and it took him a moment to speak. 

“Yeah, I think so. Where’s Al?” Riza smiled, and gave him the bowl. The ceramic clinked against his automail hand, and toasted his skin. 

“He’s just in the other room. He’s helping the Colonel set up the guest room.” She explained. As if reading his mind, “You haven’t been asleep for very long. About fifteen minutes.” 

Well, that explained why she was still here. “Will you stay much longer?” Ed asked tiredly. Riza stopped to think for a moment, and shook her head a little. 

“Not much longer. I want to make sure the Colonel can actually handle this first.” She smirked.

Ed raised a brow, “Don’t you mean handle us , not this ?” he asked deadpan, her implication had been clear. Riza closed her eyes and shrugged, just as smug as the Bastard, then. 

Still, he couldn’t bring himself to be cross. It felt so odd, but he was just too tired for it. Besides, Ed assumed Riza had been the one to make him soup. It was pretty good, especially against his sore throat. 

“Will you be alright here with just the Colonel and your brother?” Riza asked, sitting in a nearby chair. Her coat was hung over her two arms. She looked poised like a bird ready to fly off. Strangely, Ed almost wished she’d stay. 

“I’ll be fine. It’s the Colonel you have to worry about.” Ed said. Riza looked at ease, almost pleased. 

“I’ll take your word for it.” She said pleasantly. Standing, her back faced Edward. “I’ll speak to the Colonel and your brother, then I’ll be off.” 

Ed sat the bowl on the coffee table and sunk back into the couch. Suddenly, his mouth tasted sour. He closed his eyes, maybe he could fall asleep before the Colonel tried to bother him. 

“Tell me the truth, Edward! Tell me what was said–Tell me what you saw!!” 

.

.

.

“Ed.” 

“Edward!” 

Edward jolted upright, the scream stuck in the back of his throat. All that escaped was a ragged breath, sharp and rough. 

“Wha’?” he slurred, forcing his eyes to focus. Ed could hear his heartbeat thundering in his chest, in his throat. 

“You were having a nightmare.” Roy said. His voice was devoid of sarcasm or teasing. His face was carefully blank. 

Edward wished someone around here other than him showed emotion. Roy’s face was blank as Al’s. 

“Ok…” Edward said slowly, rubbing at his face. He didn’t remember what it was, but the jittery feeling had yet to leave. “I didn’t say anything stupid, did I?” he asked, feeling a bit embarrassed. 

Roy looked over at Al, whose hands were fidgeting. Okay, not the reaction he was expecting. 

“What? What happened?” Ed said, stumbling off of the couch. Roy nearly pounced on him. Grabbing his shoulders and easing Ed back into the cushions. 

“Nothing happened, you didn’t even say anything. You were just… distressed, Fullmetal.” Roy explained. Ed huffed, all that fuss for nothing? “You’re not in pain, are you?” Roy asked, hovering. Ed shook his head. “Okay, good.” He said, scrubbing at his eyes. “Your fever went up.” 

Ed sighed, and eased himself backwards. “Can I sleep in a bed now?” He asked.

“That’s no way to talk to the person hosting you.” Roy said, but led him into the guest room anyway. With some help from Al, Edward staggered over to the bed. There were two, which was unnecessary, but kind. The second bed was much larger and lower to the ground. The Colonel had gone out of his way to transmute it, clearly. 

“I’m going to need to check up on you in an hour.” Roy warned. He stood in the doorway, arms crossed. He looked like some mother hen like this. Decidedly, Ed didn’t like it. Who said he even wanted the Colonel’s help anyway? 

“Whatever.” Ed said, kicking off his boots and crawling all the way under the covers. Roy rolled his eyes and flicked off the light. The resounding darkness curled in on Ed. His skin crawled, and he pulled the covers over his head. There was an unease he couldn’t shake, a pit in his stomach that didn’t lessen. He felt senselessly nervous. 

“Sleep well, brother.” Al said from his bed. He’d sat down with his back to the wall, a book in hand. 

“Thanks, Al.” Ed replied. He really wished he would.

Chapter Text

It was too dark to read the clock when Ed woke back up. But the moon was gone, and Al was on towards the end of a second book. “Oh, you’re awake.” Al said, setting his book down. Ed slowly slid off of the edge of the bed testing the strength of his legs. They were weak, but not shaky. 

“Time is it?” Ed asked, shuffling weakly to the door. 

“Three A.M.” Al replied, “Is everything okay?” 

Ed paused by the door frame, opening it experimentally. He poked his head into the hallway, on the lookout for Colonel Bastard. “Just wan’ some water.” He replied. Stepping out into the darkness, Ed stalked his way into the small kitchen. The apartment seemed tailored to the Bastard’s likes. It was small and solitary, but homey nonetheless. It made Ed wonder why the Colonel had a guest room. Who was he hosting here? 

“Didn’t he have a study or somethin’?” Ed mused aloud to himself. Reaching up for a glass, Ed strained onto his tip toes. Why did Roy have to stash the mugs so high up? The pull of his abdomen made his side light up with fire. Cursing and grumbling all the way, Ed filled the glass with tap water and began to meander back to the bedroom. He crossed back into the hallway, and paused. 

Peering out the window revealed a cloudless sky. The stars were dimmer here than in Risembol, and the moon was hard to see at the current angle.

 Ed missed laying out in the grass as a kid and stargazing. He and Al would trace the stars with their hands and list off constellations to Winry and their mother. The memory ached deep in Ed’s core, along with everything else that weighed down his body and mind. 

He sighed, and raised the glass to his lips when–

The glass shattered to the floor, water splashed on his feet and up his shins. Splinters and shards lined up alongside the soles of his feet and along the wooden floor. The master-bedroom door flung open, and the loud clanky sounds of Al’s armor drew closer.

Still, Ed couldn’t focus on it. On any of it. 

There was someone outside. Down a few floors, out in the car park. But it was unmistakable. They were staring up at Ed. Right into his eyes. 

“Edward!” Roy said loudly in his ear, “What is the matter?” His voice was rushed, demanding. 

Edward’s bottom lip trembled, he tried to think, but came up blank. His automail arm raised, and the metal finger tapped the cool glass of the window. Roy leaned closer, pressing into Ed’s space to look outside. 

“What? What is it?” Roy asked again, looking between Ed and the night landscape. 

“S-someone… was outside.” Ed stuttered, wide eyed. 

Roy’s brows twisted together in confusion, “Fullmetal, I don’t understand,” 

“The… That man. He was staring at me. It was him .” Edward managed, stumbling backwards. He hissed out in pain, dropping down on his automail knee to hold his flesh ankle. “D-damn it.” He cursed. 

Roy stepped away from the window and closer to Ed, pausing only when the glass and water glinted in dull moonlight. Roy sighed, side-stepping the mess, and hoisted Edward up. Ed yelped, and kept his flesh foot off of the ground. “Al, would you mind getting the first aid kit? It’s in the bathroom closet.” Roy instructed. Al nodded and quickly rushed by them, squeezing past in the tight hallway. 

Roy dumped Edward down onto the guest bed, and clicked on the lamp. Ed blinked away the sudden onslaught of light. He clutched at his side, it hurt from dropping down. “Who exactly was outside, Fullmetal?” Roy asked, face stormy. He looked so concerned, yet disheveled like this. If Ed didn’t know any better, he might’ve said all this was worry . 

“The one who attacked me. I swear . I swear it was him.” Ed said. Desperate to be believed. 

Roy nodded silently. He reached forward, and Ed jerked his head backwards. Roy leveled him with a sharp look, and chased after his forehead with his palm. “You’re warm.” He didn’t sound pleased. Grabbing the thermometer from the bedside table, he jammed it into Ed’s face. Ed knew better than to try and fight him on this one. They both watched the mercury move until Al returned. Roy pulled the thermometer from Ed’s mouth. 

Roy tweezed several small pieces of glass from Ed’s heel. Edward didn’t flinch, barely felt it, especially in comparison to his aching side. The wound throbbed with his heartbeat. Roy swabbed the cuts and began to bandage them. Ed tried to ignore how gentle he was being. It was hardly more than a few scratches. 

“You have a fever of a hundred.” Roy said as he worked. Ed groaned in response. 

“Can’t we deal with that later? That man was outside!” Ed exclaimed. Alphonse crammed in closer, body language tense. 

“The man who stabbed you?” He asked, voice wilting with worry. 

“You’re safe here, Fullmetal.” Roy assured, voice firm. “I’ll call the office to send some people over to check the perimeter.” He said, rising from his crouched position. 

“Try not to worry, alright? I’ll stay up, and we’ll have people over soon.” Roy said, almost ordered. 

Ed puffed up his chest, “What, you want me to be calm and take a nap while my would-be-murder is outside?” He snapped. Al corralled him back and tried to calm him down. 

Roy heaved out a deep breath and pinched his brow. “Do more than nap, Fullmetal. Get some sleep, you’re injured.” With that, Roy slipped out and closed the door. 

“He’s unbelievable! How am I supposed to rest?” Ed crossed his arms indignantly. Truly, he was annoyed, but the outward display was more to mask the fact he was nervous. Something about some encounter he could barely remember terrified him. Not to mention, how had that man been able to find him? 

It felt too reminiscent of when they’d opened the portal. With how little control and understanding of the situation he had. Like divulging some evil secret and starting to unravel for it. 

It made Ed sick. His stomach churned, and his head ached, and his side pulsed. In the end, all he could do was exactly what Roy had said. It felt unfair, to sit and do nothing. And yet, a part of him was glad. That cowering, childish part. 

“Really, Brother. You should try and rest. Me and the Colonel will stay alert.” Al urged, pulling the blanket over Ed. Ed grumbled, but could do little to deny his younger brother’s wishes. Edward could at least feign being asleep. It was doubtful his nerves would actually allow him to sleep peacefully. He closed his eyes, and strained his ears. He could hear Alphonse get up after minute or so, and step outside. The door clicked shut, but the metal plates didn’t clash together again. Ed assumed he was either sitting stationary outside the room, like a guard, or he was talking with Roy. Edward tried harder to hear, but couldn’t make out any additional sound. 

Admitting defeat, Edward opened his eyes. Staring up the ceiling revealed it to be as impartial as ever. A bland white. The room was silent, leaving only a dull ringing in Ed’s ears to accompany him. He stayed like this for a while, intermittently closing and opening his eyes. All attempts to sleep were futile. He couldn’t rest. How was he supposed to? His side was burning, and his would-be-killer had showed up. He had to do something . 

Edging off the bed, Edward moved over to the door. Each step was a little uncomfortable from the glass cuts. But managble, especially for the few steps it took to get from the door to the bed. Slowly, he cracked open the door. Expecting to see Al there, and hear scoldings to get back into bed, he was shocked to see the hall was empty. “Hello?” Edward asked, slipping out of the doorway. No one replied. 

He kept walking. Stepping past the pile of soaking towels that had clearly substituted actually cleaning up the mess he’d made. “Al? Where’d you go?” Edward said. The hallway gave way to the kitchen and living room. Empty. 

“Come on, where’d you guys go?” Edward said a little louder. No response. How hadn’t he heard them leave? Did he actually start to doze during the limbo time spent waiting? 

Before Ed could meander any further, a loud screeching sounded off. It startled him so badly that it took him a while to even realize what the sound was. The fire alarm was sounding. 

Ed was struck, what was he supposed to do? Surely he couldn’t stay in a building that’s on fire. But if he went outside, there was a chance Al and Roy wouldn’t make it to him in time. Not before that–that man would. His heart was beating out of his chest. He had to move, now. Make a decision, now. But what should he do? The fire could be fake, a lure to get him out, but was that a chance he should really take? With his automail, he was particularly sensitive to temperature. A fire would cause his ports to sear deep into his scarred skin. 

Thinking of the agony that would ensue if he stayed in a burning building, Edward made his decision. Shuffling over to the door, he grabbed a coat–whose, he didn’t know–and put on his shoes. 

By the time Edward made it to the elevator, he was winded. His side ached, and he’d broken out in a cold sweat. Only upon reaching the elevator, did he realize he shouldn’t use it. That was, if it was even operating. Ed wondered if he’d turned as white as a sheet upon the realization. As quickly as he could manage, he forced himself to the stairwell. The fire alarms were louder inside the echoing space. It made Edward’s head hurt significantly worse, and his breaths picked up in pace. Each step was agony, and by the time he made it to the second flight, his vision was swimming. His stomach churned menacingly, and he could barely see over the spots in his vision. 

At this rate, he was either going to burn, or be caught. 

Knowing he couldn’t stay and rest, Ed caught his breath before continuing on. Every step was agony, and had his side pulling uncomfortably. His scratched foot hurt with every heavy footfall. The coat he’d grabbed was dwarfing him, and making him sweat profusely. Still, he felt aching cold. For several long minutes, discomfort was all Edward knew. When he finally made it down the stairs, and out into the main foyer, there was a flurry of motion. People running out in their pajamas, with their kids and pets. Edward felt lost in the mess of people, despite how few of them there were. He imagined this was the last of the building's tenants. 

Between the rush of fearful apartment-goers, was a group of military men. They must’ve been the people Mustang had called for backup. 

Relief made Edward sag, and he made his way to one as quickly as possible. Standing in the way of one man’s path, he panted, hoping to speak. “Did Roy send you?” He finally said. The soldier perked up a bit, and extended an arm to hold Ed up. 

Ed swerved his shoulder away, not wanting to be touched. The man took the hint, and nodded, “Yes, Roy called us in on an investigation. You must be the FullMetal Alchemist?” The man asked. Ed nodded, feeling even more relieved than before. “Alright, kid, come with me.” 

Edward followed behind him like a duckling. Too tired to care about appearances, or being called a kid. All he could think about was finding Al, and going somewhere safe. Even if it meant sleeping on Roy’s couch at the office. It was odd how badly he actually wanted that. He’d dozed off there a few times before. With Roy and Riza mumbling softly about something boring, Furey tapping away and the dull murmur of his radio, Falman and Havoc gossiping, and Breda sipping his coffee off in the corner. It had felt rather safe at the time, surrounded by well trained and trusted individuals. 

Ed was craving that security now. With Riza’s hand on the trigger, Furey always ready to call for backup, the others more than capable to fend off any attackers. 

“You still with me, kid?” The stranger asked, and Ed forced himself to focus. He was starting to limp now. His automail leg was leeching too much energy, energy he didn’t have. The metal prosthetic was slowing down. 

“M’ fine.” Edward grumbled back. He was too tired for this. Where the hell were Mustang and Al anyway? How much further were they going to make him walk? 

“Here we are, kid.” The man said, opening the door to some random car. Edward stilled. No fucking way was he getting into this guy’s car. 

“Where’s the Colonel, and the kid in the big armor?” Edward demanded, hackles raised. 

“Colonel said for us to bring you back to command, it’s not secure here.” The man replied. 

“That’s not what I asked. Where is the Colonel? Where is my brother?!” Edward said, taking a halting step backwards. It was hard to walk. He didn’t think he could run. Not like this. Not with a scratched foot and his automail starting to stall. He was in danger . Ed was sure of it. He needed to find Roy. Now . 

“Enough, kid. Get in the car now, you want that psycho to find you?” He asked, moving closer to Edward. 

“Hell no. Back up, right now !” Edward drew his hands close together. It was a threat, for anyone who knew of him. His palms were close, near touching. Edward could feel the heat of his flesh hand diminishing against the cold metal, despite not even touching. He studied the man’s face best he could. This wasn’t the person in the parking lot. But something about the way his expression dropped, made Edward reminiscent of something foul. 

“That’s enough.” The man said. He lunged forward. If Edward had been at the top of his game, he would have moved faster, clapped his hands together, and been done with this whole ordeal. But he wasn’t. He was hurt, and feverish, and everything was moving too fast and he was moving too slow. 

Everything was a blur for an excruciating moment. Then, he cried out in pain. The man, now his attacker, had grabbed his arm and pinned it behind his back. It hurt, and Edward tried hard to figure out which arm had been seized. Left or right? Flesh or metal? How should he react? 

Before Edward could do anything else, he was being tossed into the back of the car. His head smacked into the car door, and bounced. The man lorded over the open door, and Edward scrambled to escape. He hadn’t been paying attention before. But the man’s face. It was familiar , scarily so. 

Edward started to yell. The man started cursing, and Edward sucked in a deep breath, “Colonel! Al!! Roy–” 

The butt of a gun came down on Ed’s head. He saw nothing but darkness.

Chapter Text

“What do you want with Fullmetal?” Roy demanded, circling Edward’s foe. 

The man smirked despite himself. He was tousled, and covered in soot from where he’d just barely missed being burned. His hair hadn’t been so lucky, searing at the ends and emitting an awful smell. Roy hated that smell second only to burning flesh. Both were awful, but inevitable with alchemy like his. 

“I want the truth. That’s all.” He grinned something awful. Roy couldn't help the way his stomach lurched with an overwhelming hate. This man had tracked down his subordinate after attacking him when he wasn’t expecting it. This man had attacked his subordinate, Edward Elric, a fifteen year old child. This man had attacked his a child. 

“The truth? And what truth is that?” Roy asked. The two continued to walk in circles around each other. One with a gun, and the other with ignition gloves. Whoever could pinch their fingers faster would live. Whoever couldn’t, would die. Roy wasn’t going to die. “Are you sure, Fullmetal knows? I’m afraid he’s rather foolish.” Roy smirked, but it was a facade. He needed to know this man’s motivations before he burned him to death. 

“Oh, he’s much smarter than you’d imagine.” Roy tried not to bristle at that, like this stranger understood his subordinate better than Roy ever could. “He knows the secret. He knows the truth.” As the perp spoke, he grew near manic. “I bet you don’t even know. But I do, I know. When he enlisted, did you understand what he was? He knows the answers.” The rambling was near incomprehensible. But it did catch Roy’s attention. Something only Fullmetal would know, that transpired before he joined the military. 

It made Roy’s fingers twitch, but he kept his composure. This man must be after the secrets to human transmutation. But if some kids could figure it out, how come this guy couldn’t? He managed to find them here and get inside. Clearly, he had some inkling. Why not try his own hand at it? Unless, he already knew the cost someone had to pay. Did he think Ed would be able to explain such an ineffable concept to him? It was truly abused. But the man was clearly crazed, desperate to know and so sure he could understand it. 

“You’re forgetting the fundamentals.” Roy tutted, growing more confident. The man stuttered for a second, eyes slimming in suspicion. 

“Fundamentals of what?” The stranger demanded. 

Roy scoffed, “Of Alchemy. If you want the truth, especially from Edward, you’ll have to give something up for it.” 

The man’s face twisted into that of utter rage. Roy had clearly struck a nerve. “No I don’t!” He shouted, “No, no! I won’t!” He began to run straight for Roy. Gun outstretched but shaky. 

Well, that was all Roy needed. His fingers snapped. 

The flames shot sideways, licking hungrily at the walls. Roy had been shoved aside, causing him to stumble and miss. Turning around, Roy could see another soldier pointing his gun at Roy. It was one of the two he’d assigned to the ground floor. “The hell?” He mumbled to himself. 

“Colonel!” Someone shouted from the doorway, “They’re–” A gunshot. Roy stiffened. The other soldier positioned to the ground floor was now in a puddle of his own blood. 

“I see. So this was a setup.” Roy said, narrowing his eyes. Disgust wound around him. Had they been hoping he’d call in backup? He needed to get back to Ed and Al. 

“Got that right, Hero of Ishval.” Snapped the man who’d shoved him. So they had a chip on their shoulders too? Just great. 

“Is that man dead?” Roy asked the traitor. 

The traitor considered the man he’d shot for a moment, “Does it matter?” 

Roy felt sick, but there was little he could do for his comrade at the moment. “What is it that you all want with Fullmetal? Surely you don’t need a child to supplement your plans.” Roy stalled . How many soldiers were against them? He’d sent two up for Ed and Al. Had it been one of them? 

“Don’t answer him. You’re already givin’ too much away.” Snapped the traitor to the original attacker. “We need to hurry up, got that.” He turned back to Mustang. “Time’s up, Colonel.” 

A groan, presumably from the downed man. Enough of a distraction. Roy snapped. 

The traitor screamed. A sharp blood curdling thing, and began to flail about uselessly. Roy couldn’t take his eyes off of his remaining opponent, and certainly not the human fireball bumping into every object nearby. Still, over the shouting of the traitor and his friend, Roy could hear the other soldier get up, stumbling nearby. The phone rang, he must’ve been calling up to Roy’s apartment. 

Relief flooded Roy’s system. With his next attacks, he didn’t hold back. 

~

Alphonse felt his nerves wind, tie, and grind together. He was scared for Edward. Sure, they’d been attacked and chased after before. But an attacker stalking Edward? That was new. Not to mention, he was one of the few people who’d actually managed to best Edward. 

Slightly opening the door and peeking inside, Alphonse could see Ed had fallen asleep. Something light and fitful, but asleep nonetheless. Careful not to be noisy, Al closed the door and walked away from it. “Colonel, brother is asleep now.” Al said, and Roy nodded. 

“I didn’t want to say this in front of Fullmetal, and I find it very regretful to say this to you as well,” Roy began, looking rather guilty, “But this is a very serious matter. I’ve spoken to headquarters, and they’re sending more men to be stationed around the building.” Roy sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. “I promise Fullmetal is safe here, with me.” 

Al wished he could smile, or show some sort of facial expression that might ease Roy’s worries. Alphonse knew the Colonel could be a real handful, but he seemed like a good guy. Ed’s fighting with him always seemed so pointless, though Al knew why he did it. He wished Edward would let the man in, would let anyone in. Alphonse was as close as it got, and even then, there was so much Edward was keeping from him. 

“What can I do to help, sir?” Alphonse asked, fidgeting with his hands. Roy turned to him and gave him a deceptively soft look. 

“Nothing, for now. Just stay close to Edward’s room.” Roy said. Al wondered if being woken up in the middle of the night had something to do with this. Roy was being awfully tender for a man of his status. Alphonse knew how dangerous being a state alchemist was, and had always taken that to be the reason Roy was often cold. But now, with the man worried and tired, he looked rather normal. 

Al stopped his train of thought before it traveled to anything more familial . He had Edward to worry about. Now wasn’t the time to get overly sentimental about his brother’s supervisor. 

The phone rang, and Alphonse nearly jumped. He could see the surprise on Roy’s face. But unsurprisingly, the man was rather good at keeping his reactions under check. Roy quickly made his way to the phone and picked it up. Alphonse couldn’t hear what was being said, and wished rather desperately that he could. Roy’s face twisted into something tight and dark. “I understand. Please hold your positions. Don’t let anyone in or out. ” He said, voice dipping dangerously low. “ Or it will be on your head. ” If Alphonse could shiver, he would have. 

“Alphonse, I’m sorry. The perpetrator has already entered the building. I have to go down and meet with the other soldiers.” Roy said. He really was regretful, it was written all over his face. 

“Okay, Colonel. I’ll stay here with Ed and make sure he’s safe!” Alphonse said, and Roy nodded. He grabbed his blue jacket, not bothering with any of its other components. The front door closed awfully gently, and with that, the Colonel had left. 

Alone in the apartment now, Alphonse kept fidgeting. He didn’t want to cause any property damage to Roy’s home, but Al didn’t want to be without a weapon. He drew a transmutation circle on the coffee pot, and transformed the metal. With a spear in tow, Alphonse sat stationary in front of the door. It made him feel rather odd. He felt like a true suit of armor now, lying in wait. Empty . 

But now wasn’t the time for feelings like that, either. 

Things were still and silent for a few moments. Some twenty or so minutes after Roy had left, noise began. It was soft, but just enough to worry Alphonse. He opened the door, but the sound wasn’t any easier to hear. He was afraid to leave Edward, but if something was happening, he didn’t want to just sit around. Still, his priority was to Edward and Edward alone. Alphonse closed, locked, and barricaded the door. Pulling up a chair and stuffing it under the door knob. 

Alphonse paced, slowly, as to make as little sound as possible. But his nerves were ticking up and up. He could hear Edward shifting every now and again. He was scared for his brother, and the Colonel, and the other soldiers. He was scared. 

Then the phone rang. 

Alphonse jumped that time. The metal plates of his armor clashed together like wind chimes. He moved as quickly as his bulky body would allow. “H-hello? Colonel?” Alphonse spoke into the receiver. 

No one replied, but there was sound. An awful lot of it. Blowing out the phone’s weak speaker despite how far away the commotion sounded. 

“There’s been–” the line crackled

“Hello? What’s going on? Colonel?!” Alphonse worried the phone cord, twisting it in knots. 

“Coup–get–building!!” Some unknown voice, loud and hurried. They sounded frazzled, maybe even scared. 

Alphonse swallowed thickly. The line was devoid of any real words. Just the sounds from before. Sounds that Al now recognized as fighting. He quickly made his way to their guest room, getting ready to grab Edward and make a break for it. “Oh, Colonel, please be okay…” Alphonse whispered to himself. His gloved hand wrapped around the door knob and–

“Open up!” Someone shouted from outside in the hallway. Alphonse jumped and swiveled around. Holding the spear outwards, Alphonse was ready to fight. “Come on, kid! The Colonel sent me to come get you and Ed!” 

Alphonse stuttered. If the Colonel had sent this guy, then maybe it was okay. But how could he be sure? 

“Tell me your name and rank!” Alphonse said through the door. He looked into the peep-hole. A roughed up military officer stood on the other side. “Now!” 

“I’m Major Ashley. Please, hurry up, we don’t have time for this!” Alphonse wracked his head if he’d ever heard this name. But there were so many divisions, and so many majors, and so many soldiers. It was hard to tell if he’d met this man, or even heard the name in passing. 

“Tell me your orders from Colonel Mustang.” Alphonse ordered from his side of the door. The man on the other side let out a long-suffering kind of sigh. “I won’t come out unless you tell me, right now!” 

A loud bang sounded. The man looked like it shook him, from where All could see through the peephole. He wished he could have felt it, to better determine how bad it was. As if on cue, the floor rumbled again. Alphonse knew they couldn’t stay here anymore. Edward was bound to get hurt. Al moved the chair and began to unlock the door. Fumbling with his gauntlets to undo the small latches, he didn’t realize the man had changed stance. 

Upon opening the door, Alphonse was met with a readied gun. It pointed at his abdomen. “Bring me the Fullmetal kid–” Alphonse didn’t let him finish, tackling him into the hallway. 

Alphonse was heavy, pinning the man with the uncomfortable plates of armor. Still, he was hollow, and could only do so much to keep someone as desperate as that down. The man bucked out and started to hammer the butt of his gun into Al’s helm. The metal echoed, but went ignored. “Get off you brat! I don’t wanna kill a kid, but I will!” The man shouted warningly. Alphonse grunted as he started to wrestle for the man’s gun. 

“I won’t let you near brother!” Alphonse said, and nearly ripped the gun free. But the man twisted his hand at an awful angle. He made a noise of pain, but had freed himself from Al’s grip. Kicking a leg up between the armor and himself, the attacker rolled out from under Al. 

He stood across from Al, illuminated by low moonlight. He was silhouetted by the window behind him, but Al could still see his every move. 

Their attacker switched the gun to his better hand, and raised it again. If Ed heard the shot, he’d be sure to come running. It’d only make things worse, and he was in no condition to fight. Well, then Alphonse would just do what he had to. 

With a running start, Alphonse bodied the man out of the window.

Chapter Text

Waking left Edward in a sense of limbo. He fell ill and odd. His head ached profusely, and his side burned something awful. 

Despite knowing he wasn’t asleep anymore, his senses weren’t coming to him. His eyes felt sticky and glued shut. Forcing them to flutter open, they instantly watered. It was hard to make them focus, and the pain in his face and forehead was hard to power through. But Edward was stubborn as ever, and pushed forward. 

When his eyes finally started to make sense of what he was looking at, Edward stiffened. He was in some unknown dilapidated building. 

“Finally, you’re awake, you little shit.” Someone said roughly from behind Ed. Edward instantly went to put his hands together, only to find he couldn’t move them. At first, he couldn’t feel them at all, till he realized the heavy and pin-prick filled feeling was in his arms. They both ached from their tense positions. One arm was tied tight to lay over his chest, bound to his shoulder. The other arm was tied tight against his back, bound to his waist. The position was painful, made only worse by the assumed amount of time they’d been like this. With his arms pulled tight in opposite directions like this, it made his side tug. He hoped his stitches wouldn’t pop. Al and Hawkeye would kill him. 

“Wha’...” Edward could barely make his tongue move, “Do ya’ wan’ from me?” His words were slurred, chopped syllables short. He couldn’t remember how he’d gotten here, or wound up in this state. The pain in his head must have something to do with it. 

“We want the truth.” a pause, “The truth only you know.” 

When Edward swallowed, he felt his throat click. His mouth was so dry, and his head hurt so badly, and he was so, so tired. Sickness clung to the back of his mind. The truth. 

“Do ya’ mean…” He struggled to find the words, struggling to force them out. Surely they didn’t want to know about human transmutation? And if so, why go through such lengths to kidnap him? He and Al had found the circle and ingredients as children. There had to be more to it. “The truth to human transmutatin’?” Deep breaths, Ed was trying desperately to stay calm, “Cause the answer is no.” 

The man behind him rounded the chair, grabbing the arms harshly. The movement shook him, his hair shooting back under the force. It made Ed’s head throb harder. “What did you say?” His kidnapper barked out the question. Edward’s kidnapper–the guy with the car who’d pretended to be a military officer. Or, he really was one, just a really bad one. Ed didn’t know, couldn’t tell, and didn’t particularly care right then and there. 

“ N , O . How else ya’ wan’ me to say it?” Edward strained his eyes to focus on the man looming over him. Dark, sunken eyes. His face had been shaven a little while ago, and messy stubble was coming in. He looked much more disheveled than before. But Ed hadn’t been paying attention before either. 

Clearly, he wasn’t paying attention now, either. He didn’t see his kidnapper’s hand swing back or hurl towards his cheek till it’d reached its target. Edward’s head snapped to the side, reeling from the slap. Turning back to look at his attacker, Edward worked his jaw, hearing it click. 

“There isn’t any way to bring someone back from the dead. If you knew anything about me, you’d know that.” Edward ground out, leaning forward best he could. 

“No, no. We know there’s a price to pay. We know about equivalent exchange. We’re just willing to give up more.” 

“What d’ ya’ mean, ‘we’?” Ed asked. He struggled to sit up straighter, tried to see other people. 

Someone sniffled, and stepped into his point of view. Edward felt his breathing stop for a moment. It was that man. From the first attack. From the parking lot. 

His eyes were red, and puffy, his nose runny. His torso was bare of clothes despite how cold it was. He was wrapped from his neck to his waist in hoards of gauze. “Me, and him. And the guy who was supposed to help me neutralize Roy Mustang.” The bandaged man said. Edward’s attacker from before. 

It’d been such a sloppy attack, he’d never imagined there would be more people in on it. 

“Well, he was with us. Till that bastard Colonel of yours burned him!!” He yelled, shoving the other man away. “I should kill you! That’ll be some equivalence for your superior! He kills one of our own, and we kill you!” The current man grabbed Edward’s arms and shook him. The binding around Ed’s waist keeping him to the chair dug into his stomach. It made bile pool in the back of his throat. Before long, Ed would be hacking it up. 

“He killed someone?” Edward asked in a voice so small it was hardly his own. 

The bandaged man stopped shaking him. Having half the sense to look ashamed. The first man, taller than the bandaged guy–Ed decided his name was Giant. The bandaged guy was now named Jerk–pulled the second man away. Giant tried to sooth Jerk, saying things about bringing their lost friend back. They were already getting one person back, why not two? 

Edward’s guts twisted again. This time, however, a giggle escaped him. Maybe it was because he was tired, and feverish. Maybe he was delirious. But he giggled, and kept giggling, and didn’t stop. 

“Fuck’s so funny, you little brat?” Jerk asked. He shoved off Giant and stormed over. 

“You can’t even bring back your original person, much less the one who got barbecued.” Ed didn’t like insulting the recently departed, but he couldn’t help it. “Human transmutation doesn’t work.” Clenching his automail hand, “I’ve tried.” 

Giant shook his head. “No, no. You didn’t give up enough. I’ve heard rumors. You tried human transmutation and lost your arm and leg. But that’s not the entire body.” He said, near good naturedly. “And it certainly isn’t a soul. Equivalent exchange, right?” 

Edward felt himself sweating. He was so cold, and still sweating all over. “No, no .” He tried, stressing each word. Ed didn’t want to mention Al. He couldn’t bring his brother into this mess and danger. They must not have heard about what Al gave up. It made sense, afterall, Edward was the famous alchemist and Al was just his brother in training. “That’s not it at all. We brought something back. It came… it was wrong. OK ? Please, believe me.” Edward felt himself beginning to truly panic now. 

“Well, you know the truth.” The Giant said. Urging Edward to keep speaking, “You’d know. You’ve seen the truth. Whatever was on the other side of that gate, right?” 

“Wha… How do you know about the gate? Huh?” Edward squirmed, trying to worm his way out of the chair. 

“We’ve heard about it. If you know where to look, there are some people who’ve done the same thing.” The Giant explained. “Of course, they had either gotten into trouble, died, or disappeared.” He smiled, “You were all we could find.” 

“Yeah, and he was barely worth it. Ellis died for this little prick.” Jerk said, butting back in. If Edward had the energy, he’d certainly be angry for being called little. 

In a situation like this, all alone and at his kidnappers mercy, Edward did feel little. 

“Like I said, you were all we could find. So tell me, Fullmetal Alchemist: Do you want to spill the truth, or perform human transmutation again ?” 

Edward puked. 

~~~

Roy had managed to burn one of the ugly sons of bitches. The other only escaped his flames as the fire alarms sounded, sprinklers putting an end to his alchemy. The time Roy spent fumbling for his gun was enough for the second assailant to escape. Ducking out a window like some coward. Roy gave chase, following the man towards the parking lot. 

However, this is what they had wanted. Another traitorous officer was lying in wait for Edward to come stumbling downstairs. He’d been there to drive them away, but when his buddy never came back with the pipsqueak, he came inside. With Roy out after the other man, and Alphonse planted firmly in the ground, Edward was easy pickings. 

From what Roy could gather, two of the four men he was given from command were traitors. One traitor stayed with a regular soldier on the first floor with Roy. The other went with a regular soldier to get Ed and Al. Al had dealt with his traitor. But that third man. 

Thinking about it alone was maddening. To write it down on paper for a report was worse. To detail how he’d failed the Elric brothers. How he’d failed Edward. It was hellish.  

Roy held the pen between his two hands and snapped it in half. Riza looked over at him, and snatched the clipboard and paperwork away. 

“Please, complete it later, Sir. You should be worried about finding Edward first.” Her words weren’t an admonishment. Still, they felt like it. “Furey and Hughes’ team have been keeping their eyes and ears peeled for any information.” Riza said. Orderly as ever, but her nerves were showing. Those who knew what to look for could see it. Roy could see it like she was clear. 

“Sir, please stop looking at me like that. I’ll give back the paperwork afterwards, you’re making a mess.” 

Roy scoffed and shook his head. “Alright, Lieutenant.” He was trying to keep up with their regular banter. But nothing about this was normal. All he could do was wait, and think about how badly he’d failed. 

That was, until Alphonse busted open the door of his office. It was so reminiscent of Edward. For one tiny moment, Roy’s heart stuttered with hope. “Colonel, Lieutenant! Hughes said they found a possible location! Apparently the car that left with Brother was spotted in the area.” Alphonse explained quickly. Almost too quickly to comprehend, “Hurry, come on!” 

Roy and Riza didn’t need to be told twice. Roy jumped out of his seat and he and Riza chased after Al’s hollow footsteps. If this lead was true, then it meant Roy could atone for his mistake. He would be damned if he failed the Elrics again.

Chapter Text

When Roy had first chased the getaway car, drenched in sweat and ash, he’d been scared. 

When Roy searched the entire building for Alphonse, only to find him face down in the earth on top of someone, he’d been terrified. 

When Roy helped Alphonse up to find his armor dented, and covered in blood and glass, Roy felt his breath stop. 

When Roy heard that they had a lead, he’d never felt so relieved in his entire life. 

He still felt that the air was scarce, but breathing got easier. Tension stayed, but he wasn’t wound so nearly tight. Edward was close. They had to try. They were so close. 

~

Edward’s head lulled. He was exhausted, and hurting, and sick. His side hurt, so badly it was hard to tell if the warmth pooling there was simply from the wound, or from blood. If he’d split his stitches, Alphonse would never let him hear the end of it. 

Alphonse . 

Ed wanted Alphonse. No, he wanted to be far from here and these crazy people. They were dumb enough to believe the lies about Al’s armor being for training. Edward could do nothing but hoped it would stay that way. But their questioning had yet to let up. With how dazed and foggy Edward’s brain felt, he worried something might slip. 

“Don’t you want to make this easier on yourself?” Giant asked. Edward let his head tip back further. “If you don’t tell us the truth, we’re going to make you perform it.” 

“I told ya’ already,” Edward’s words were heavy in his mouth, it was laborious to speak, “You can’t do it. They’ll… they’ll come back wrong.” The back of his throat clicked. His mouth was dry. 

“Enough of this,” Jerk said, sounding more rattled. “We don’t have much longer. The military is gonna be looking for this little shit.” Jerk reached forward and hoisted Edward up. His feet scrabbled against the ground, desperate for balance. With how small and weak Ed felt, it was oddly reminiscent of when the Colonel had found him. Roy had grabbed the front of Ed by the front of his shirt, dangled him above the ground and yelled. A memory that was painful at good times, felt like a strange comfort. Roy had hefted Ed up and told him to stand on his own two feet. And he had—wished so desperately to do it again, right now. 

“You can’t make me.” Edward heaved. It was impossible to make someone else do it. It was the person performing the alchemy’s price to pay. 

“Yes, we can.” Jerk said. He dragged Edward, bare feet on cool concrete leaving a small line of blood. He tossed Edward, next. The concrete made contact with his skull, and for a few moments there was nothing. When Edward regaining his composure, he roved his eyes around. It was much harder to make sense of things with a freshly pounding head. Still, Edward could never forget that array. 

The human transmutation array sprawled under Edward in paint. The floor around the array was near pristine. They’d been ready for this for a long while. 

~

Roy had found Alphonse on top of another traitor. After hauling Al’s dented armor off the poor fool, he’d been dragged off to HQ. Another division took over the interrogation so that Roy could focus on looking for other leads, and speaking with Alphonse. 

In the end, the interrogation had been fruitful. The man had a rather weak constitution, giving into the questions after only a few hours. He’d cried and begged, and blabbered on about a lost loved one before finally telling them the location. 

Roy couldn’t care less about the sob story. Ed and Al had done the same thing, with their own hands and paid the price. It was already like playing god, now forcing a helpless child to do it for them. It made Roy sick. 

~

“Should we wait for Ashley?” Giant said. If Edward didn’t know any better, he might’ve thought the big lug was feeling remorseful. However, it was more than likely he was simply nervous. Of getting caught, or doing it wrong, or failing. If this went like Edward said it would, these men would have turned themselves into criminals and killers for no reason. 

Of course, it was going to go as Edward said it would. It was impossible to bring someone back from the dead. 

“No, we can’t wait any longer. Ashley probably started blabbering.” Jerk said, rolling Edward over with his foot. Edward groaned, and tried to focus on their words. Blabbering . Blabbering meant someone had found him, and heard whatever it was he was spilling. That someone had to be the military. With any luck it was Mustang. If not, it was Hawkeye without a doubt. “If he did, we’re already running low on time.” Jerk said, “Besides, I can’t wait any longer. I need to see her.” 

Edward felt his stomach churn. He knew this eager desperation and impatience well. I need to see her . Yeah, a whole lot of good that did him the first time. 

“Fine, fine.” Giant conceded. Suddenly, he was hovering over Edward. Staring up at the two strangers, Edward wondered what Truth might say. Maybe call him a damn fool for doing this all over again. Edward wondered what would be left of him, if anything. Surely his captors intended him to give it all up in order to rebuild their person. Of course, that’s not how it worked. But they wouldn’t listen to Ed, their resident expert. 

He had tried to explain, but now he could do nothing but stare up at them and blink sluggishly. 

“Ok, kid. Time to decide. Tell us how to bypass the toll, or give something up yourself.” Giant sat down onto his haunches. His eyes were cold when he looked at Edward. Still, they were dark, like the Colonel’s. If Edward squinted and let his feverish mind conjure something kind, he might be able to pretend it was his superior officer. “Come on now, up and at 'em kid.” Giant urged. 

Edward let out a low groan in response. It was hard to think and speak right now. “N’no,” He said, or, he thought he said. He couldn’t tell. 

“Sorry, not an option kid.” So Ed had spoken. “Guess we’ll have to do this the hard way.” Giant said, and nodded at Jerk. Jerk fumbled with something at his waistband. A gun. Cold metal clicked as he turned off the safety. Edward averted his eyes, and stared down at the transmutation circle again. 

He wanted Al. He wanted his Mom. Hell, he’d even take that deadbeat father of his. Actually, he really, really wanted Mustang. 

Mustang would know what to do, and how to handle these guys. He was a war hero. Ed didn’t want the Colonel to kill anyone else, but Mustang didn’t have to kill them. Just come here and help him. Save him. Please–

Giant edged closer, and Edward kicked his weak legs out to scoot away. He couldn’t get anywhere, and it didn’t matter when Giant snatched one of his numb arms. Suddenly, cool metal was pressed between skin and rope. Ed stilled, and held his breath as Giant cut him loose. If Edward wasn’t sick, suffering from a concussion, and didn’t have painfully numb arms, he’d do something. He’d clap his hands together and defend himself, deal with these jerks. But he was sick, and this was all starting to slip away from him. 

He was scared, unlike he’d been in a long time. The life he was living was starting to feel like a nightmare, and not something real. The walls stretched away from him, and the ceiling hung lower and lower, like it wanted to lean on Ed. He blinked furiously, hopeful to make the world stop falling apart. 

It took him a moment to realize he was being propped up, and his hands were snagged by each wrist. Palms were flat to the cool floor below him. “Wha’?” Edward slurred, head slumping back into someone cruel. His hands were lifted, clapped together and pressed back into the circle. The person forced his hands together too hard, metal grinding against tender flesh. “Ow,” Edward sniffled. 

Once his sniffles started, they didn’t seem to stop. He couldn’t fathom why he was so upset, but he was. His automail wasn’t responding. Winry was going to hit him. Ed was so cold, he was shuddering. The floor made what little he could feel of his hand itchy. His tongue was itchy too, and his mouth was dry. Edward didn’t know why he felt so poorly, or so sad, or so, so scared. Blinking back tears gave no clarity to his vision. Still, he could see white lines on the floor. The floor was making his hands itch. 

“Come on you piece of shit!” Someone yelled in his ear. Edward jumped, gasping on the air and choking on pooling spit. “You got our friend killed. You need to bring him back! Bring back Lily, right now, you brat!” Edward was being shook back and forth, not quite breathing. 

Ed’s eyes zeroed in on the transmutation circle, as if suddenly remembering what it was. He couldn’t conceptualize what these people wanted, or what was happening. But he knew that array. In paint instead of chalk, but all the same. Bile bubbled up his throat, and he gagged. The trashing stopped. And so did Edward. 

Then, Ed was hoisted upwards. Someone was dragging him with. Blood dribbled down his leg some more, following behind him. A cool sensation touched the side of his neck. It just barely touched him, but the chill was almost welcome. Edward felt boiling and sick. He garbled out something unintelligible. Maybe a no , or a please , or a Mom . 

All at once, heat boiled over. Edward gagged again, and nearly spit up. However, he was knocked to the side. The jostling halted any bodily functions, and he tumbled onto the ground. It was hot, terribly so. 

All that came to mind, was fire. Edward smiled, and opened his eyes. Maybe he could pretend those dark eyes were the Colonel’s, and not that man’s. 

“It is, it is me, Edward.” Someone hushed at him. “I promise, it’s over. You’re safe. It’s me.” Edward’s eyelids fluttered. It was too hard to stay awake. 

~~~

When Roy arrived at the location, he was barely holding himself together. Hatred and seething rage burned in his veins. This was more anger than anything he’d ever conjurged before. 

Storming into the building with Havoc and Breda, Roy insisted he go ahead. Havoc and Breda checked off shoot rooms. The places that were less likely to house Fullmetal or his captors, but that still needed securing. Riza and Falman stayed outside to help the Fuhrer's men secure the perimeter. 

However, Riza had warned Roy. If Roy lost himself to the fire of his rage, there would be a chance he’d lose Fullmetal to it too. 

Reigning himself in wasn’t easy once he lost his temper. Especially when it came to things concerning the people he cared for. Fullmetal was his subordinate. Fullmetal was a child. Fullmetal was–

Someone was leaned over Fullmetal, shaking him roughly. 

“Let him go.” Roy said. His voice was low and warning, but an undercurrent of cruelty belied his feelings. “I won’t ask you again.” Roy extended his hand, fingers pinched together. 

“Back up! You wanna burn me, you’ll have to burn–” Roy didn’t give the man a chance. His friend, who was rather quickly retrieving his gun, was set alight. He screamed, but it was short lived as Roy sent more flames forth for the man. Edward had little to no reaction. Blinking stupidly and looking feverish. 

“I’ll kill you!!” The man holding Fullmetal screamed. He started to move forward, Edward like a shield. Roy didn’t allow him the luxury of movement. For once, Roy could sing the praises to Ed’s short height. He was only around the man’s middle. Which left the traitor’s whole face free to burn. With pinpoint accuracy, Roy aimed for the attacker’s eyes. 

He threw Edward to the ground, and screamed in fresh agony. The wound wasn’t fatal, at least, it shouldn’t be. Roy had used such little flames. The true damage lied in hitting such a tender spot. 

Roy moved without thinking. Sliding down onto his knees, he scooped Fullmetal up into his lap. Havoc and Breda burst into the room, missing all the commotion. Roy ignored them, trusting they would take care of Edward’s attacker’s. 

Edward looked up at Roy with hazy, unseeing eyes. An ache had made its home on his face. It made Roy’s heart clench. Guilt surrounded him, threatening to drown him. It snuffed out the flames in his head, and left only a cold dawning realization. Roy had promised Edward he was safe. Roy had been sure of it. Ed was safest at Roy’s place, under his wing like some fledgling. He certainly seemed young enough to be one in his injured state. And yet, Roy was wrong. All he could do now was bundle Edward up in his arms, and lead him out. 

Out and away from Ed’s greatest mistakes and fears. Roy would be damned if this were to ever happen again.

Chapter Text

The needle was the first thing Edward felt. Clawed under the skin of his elbow like Truth had started fishing around again. It set Ed’s teeth on edge, before he’d even taken a conscious breath. 

“Breathe, Ed. It’s alright.” Someone’s hand laid across Edward’s forehead. It caused him to flinch, but he forced himself to relax. If Edward let his fears get ahead of him, he would die. It was certain. 

Truth wouldn’t open the gate for him if he didn’t mean it. The gun would go off then. Or maybe. He would mean it. 

“Brother, please try and breathe.” Alphonse. Edward had wanted to hear his voice. So far away now. It’d felt like forever since Edward had laid clear eyes on that metal face. He’d been sick, dazed and grouchy. He hadn’t thought to really look at Al. 

“I’ll go get a nurse. Havoc–” 

“Just go, boss.” 

“Brother, it’s alright.” Alphonse urged, large hand squeezing Edward’s. Al had been nervous to touch him last time, and most times. He was always afraid of hurting Edward more. The space hurt most. He was holding Ed’s hands tightly now. Almost too tight. 

Edward forced his eyes open. Maybe it was a lie. A fever induced hallucination. 

“There you go, chief. Wakey-wakey, it’s alright.” Havoc said from Ed’s bedside. 

Ed’s mouth opened, a silent question he couldn’t voice. He wasn’t even sure what he was going to ask about. “That’s it, brother! Deep breaths.” Al coached, running a hand atop Ed’s head. His hair felt gross, greasy and tangled. Untied. 

“Ew.” Edward managed, and closed his eyes with exhaustion. 

Havoc nearly snorted, “Sorry, what was that Chief?” He asked, giving Ed a little nudge. 

“M’ hair,” Edward slurred. He raised a hand, ignoring the way the IV caught, and pointed vaguely to his head. “S’ gross n’ all.” Havoc smiled, meek but relieved. 

“Yeah. It is pretty gross. Want me to tie it back?” Havoc offered. Edward nailed him with a suspicious look. He didn’t, not really. He didn’t think so, anyway. 

“Where m’ I?” he asked instead, ignoring Havoc. “I remember…” Edward’s words trailed off. He certainly did remember. Guns and paint, sore muscles and crazed faces. His throat caught. Edward could never forget the array for human transmutation. “The gate.” There had been clapping, over and over. What had he given up for someone else’s grief? The idea terrified him. 

With frantic hands, Edward grabbed Al’s metal forearms. “What,” He begged, “What did I give up? What’s missin’? Did ya’ see it?” He blubbered question after question. What had he given up for someone else’s grief? 

“Hey, Edward, hey,” Havoc grabbed at Edward’s hands as he clawed at Al. Ed’s nails were going white and his fingers pink. “Stop that. Hey, look at me.” Havoc was urgent, but Ed couldn’t look at him. Havoc wouldn’t know. Not where to look, or what kinds of things could go missing, he just wouldn’t know. 

“Nothing! Nothing , brother, it was nothing .” Al said quickly. 

“ Don’t you lie to me !” Edward was raising himself out of the bed. Havoc and Al were crowding him back down. 

“I’m not lying! You’re still here! You’re still you.” A flash of hurt in that echoey voice. But Ed didn’t catch it. “See?” Alphonse said as he grabbed Ed’s flesh arm rather roughly. He pinched his fingers around Ed’s arm, all the way from the shoulder to his palm. Then he shook the metal arm. Al slid his hands down Ed’s sides, and patted down his legs where they were hidden under the blanket. It seemed to calm Ed down some more, but there was still a wild look in his eyes. That untrusting look. Alphonse huffed and grabbed both of Ed’s ears, pulling on them. “See? I’m not lying! It’s rude to call someone a liar, Ed.” His voice sounded blubbery. 

Ed’s breathing calmed, and he felt all over himself to verify. “O-okay.” Edward’s energy subsided, and he sagged roughly back down onto the cot. 

Havoc looked a smidge frightened. Unsure of what exactly they were talking about, and what had set Ed off. Edward let his tired eyes rove back over to his comrade. Before anyone could explain or ask questions, a nurse appeared with Roy in toe. The look on Roy’s face startled Edward. It was hard to describe. Still, it was undeniably unguarded and emotional. The damn bastard was going soft. 

“Fullmetal.” Roy said instead of a breath. “Is he lucid?” He’d quickly stalked over to Ed’s bedside and talked right over Ed’s head. Edward sputtered, a bit indulgent at being ignored. Roy spoke to Havoc, but his hand gripped the bedrail so hard the seams of his gloves strained. 

“Yes, sir. He’s plenty lucid.” Havoc said, motioning down to Edward. “He had a little freak out, but we stopped it pretty quickly,” Havoc thought better of himself, “Well, Al did. I was just here, really.” It was sort of lame, and he wished he could have done more to ease Edward. The Elric brothers truly were off in their own world. Sometimes, it seemed too far away. Even for people close to them in relation or skill. Like Roy, or even that mechanic friend of theirs. 

“Quit talkin’ over me.” Edward breathed, staring up at Roy’s poor appearance. “M’ right here.” 

Roy finally looked at Edward’s face. Like he’d been nervous to in the first place. Was Roy scared of what he might see? Of seeing something else, again ? “Fullmetal. Thank god. You haven’t been lucid for a day now.” Roy explained. His grip on the bedrail didn’t let up. “When… when you first woke up, you were quite unwell.” Edward swallowed thickly. It was hard to unpack that with little further explanation. 

“Those,” Edward tried to find himself, his courage, “Those guys. They’re not… they didn’t complete the transmutation, did they?” Edward asked, picking at his sheets. 

As if uncontrolled, Roy’s hand flew out. Edward had half a mind to flinch, and may have too. But it was too distracting to have Roy’s haltingly warm hand grounded on his shoulder. It was different with Al, he wasn’t warm from anything but the sun. Ed hadn’t exactly been focused enough on Havoc to feel the full effect, either. “No, Edward. They didn’t.” Roy promised, voice low and near soft. Goddamn him. Goddamn this bastard of a superior officer. Ed’s bottom lip wobbled. “They,” What could Roy say? Those men had done the same thing as Ed and Al. Spurred on by grief and a false hope. But they’d hurt a child, someone innocent just to get what they wanted. “They were both apprehended. One of them is in critical condition, but he’s well detained.” Roy assured. 

“Okay,” Was all Edward mustered, before he turned his head away. It was hard, being scrutinized like this. He was the center of the room, the center of attention. 

Roy squeezed his shoulder. 

“Fullmetal, I promise you; No one will ever be able to do that again.” Edward scoffed. 

“No one’s dumb enough to try. Just them.” Edward sniffled. “You can’t force someone to do human transmutation.” 

Roy’s hand slid down to Edward’s real one. He pressed the tips of his fingers into the middle of Edward’s palm. The pressure was reassuring. Edward couldn’t feel the concrete there anymore. Just scratchy fabric from Roy’s dime-a-dozen gloves. “Forgive me, Fullmetal.” Roy said, regretting their audience, “I told you, you were safe in my home.” 

Edward let out a little laugh, and looked back at Roy. “Yeah, well. I was, till you set off the damn fire alarm.” 

Roy pulled a tight smile. “Yes, well, next time you’re in danger I’ll be sure not to bother your beauty sleep.” 

Silence blanketed them as the nurse made herself busy. She’d done a good job of being invisible until then, looking over his charts and Iv. But now that their heartfelt talking was over, she made herself the commanding presence. For once, it wasn’t Riza at the helm. 

The nurse asked Edward how he was feeling, checked his heart rate, his breathing, and other such routine things. All the while, Ed was only half there. It was hard to make sense of a lot of things. Being sick and then kidnapped certainly made things hazy. The only thing Edward could really think of was where Riza was. The nurse reminded him of her, the way she whipped the other men in the room into shape. Roy, Al, and Havoc were all away from the bed and out of her way. She was commanding, but not unkind. 

“Riza,” Edward mumbled without much thought.

“Hm?” Roy perked up, leaned against the wall with his arms crossed. 

“Riza, I… where is she?” he could almost imagine her, here in this setting again. She’d be so disappointed he’d wound up in the hospital again. But her voice would be strong and soothing, like she already knew what the outcome would be. 

“She’s filing out some final paperwork for the case.” Roy explained. “Really, it should be me filling them out, but the hospital wanted a legal guardian here with you.” 

Edward tried not to flush from embarrassment. He hated that Roy had assumed such a role when he’d joined the military. Still, he thanked his lucky stars that someone like Pinnoco hadn’t been called. 

After a while, the nurse filed back out of the room. Havoc went after that. Something about needing sleep, switching turns with Mustang, and catching the ‘hot’ nurse’s phone number. Roy had rolled his eyes, Al made some fleeting comment, and it was silent again. 

“I’m sure he’ll be back soon with something to eat.” Roy said when Havoc was gone. Edward wondered why the man even bothered to say anything. Did Ed look nervous at the loss of company? Was he nervous at the loss of company? 

“Okay.” Edward said back, pursing his lips. “He’d better hurry. I need him to braid my hair for me.”

Chapter Text

Havoc’s calloused hands worked their way through Ed’s hair. He whistled some vaguely familiar tune. The smell of old smoke in clothes surrounded Ed. He couldn’t help but close his eyes against the comforting motions. 

“Riza said she’d finished the majority of the paper work. Rest is just for our boss to do.” Havoc joked, looking over Edward’s shoulder at Roy. The colonel scowled over his book from where he’d been sitting. 

“Yeah, bet this case’ll go nowhere with him at the head.” Edward grumbled. The book in Roy’s hands snapped shut, and he stood abruptly. 

“Show me a little respect, Fullmetal. I’m your guardian after all.” Roy said, a bit of smugness leaking into his voice. Edward let out a low string of curses, cheeks warm. Havoc snickered in Ed’s ear. He had half a mind to smack the smoker’s hands right out of his hair. 

“Just shut up and go back to the office.” Edward ground out as Roy got closer. 

“Careful, Edward. Don’t make me put you on medical leave for another week.” Roy had one eyebrow raised, arms crossed, and a horribly smug look on his face. Edward grit his teeth together and made a vaguely growling sound at the Colonel. This only earned him a condescending laugh. Truly, Roy couldn't help himself when Edward was acting so childish. So like himself again… it eased that breathless feeling in Roy’s throat and chest. If Hughes knew, he’d comment about how when parents lose track of their kids, they describe it as not being able to breathe till you see them again. Of course, if Hughes was there, spouting such nonsense, Roy would object. Naturally. Edward wasn’t his son, and neither was Alphonse.

But… he was their legal guardian. He was allowed to be a little breathless, he mused to himself. 

“You hear me bastard?! I said don’t you dare! Got that!” Edward's fervent, wild shouting drew Roy back. 

“Quit yelling or you’ll hurt yourself worse, and then you’ll actually need to be on leave longer.” Roy replied, causing Havoc to chuckle. He was nearly done with Ed’s hair. Spent such a great amount of time and care to untangle, brush through, repart and style it before finally braiding it. Down to the last segment, Havoc put his hand out and motioned at the Colonel. 

“Bow.” Havoc said, chewing on a toothpick. No smoking in the hospital. But if Ed was here, surely his nerves were shot. 

“On it.” Roy said, grabbing the lacy blue ribbon tied around a vase of ‘get well’ flowers. 

“Wait, what?” Edward gawked, “No, no, no. Don’t put that in my hair!” he protested as Havoc snatched it from Roy’s hand. 

“Stop making such a fuss, Fullmetal. Think of the other patients who have to hear you whining.” Roy said, strutting towards the door. 

“I am not whining!” Edward snapped, watching as Roy started to open the door. “Hey! Get back here and take that back.” Ed demanded. 

Roy turned to look over his shoulder, “Oh, I can’t. I have to, what did you say? Right, of course, ‘ shut up and go back to the office ’.” Roy grinned, shutting the door behind him. He could hear Edward shouting through the thick wood. Smiling to himself, he made his way back to the office. 

~

“Edward, please try and relax.” Riza sighed from her desk. Edward had insisted on going back to work before his time was up. Of course, Roy and everyone else on team Mustang refused to let him go out. Hell, they barely even let him leave their line of sight. Edward was stuck helping Roy and Riza with the backlog of paperwork. He was shocked by how far they’d gotten behind since his attacks. It was sorta of… heart warming. But only sort of. It was more obnoxious than anything else. 

Edward didn’t dignify Riza with a response. He was too mad and too bored. Instead he grumbled something useless and unintelligible. 

“Words, Fullmetal. Try and use them.” Roy said as he emerged from the inner office. Edward flipped him off, and then groaned at the position he’d flung his arm into. Roy shook his head, “Stop fussing so much. You’re making things worse for yourself.”

“The Colonel’s right you know…” Furey chimed in. Edward whipped around on the couch, giving the worst glare he could muster to the poor guy. Furey shut up instantly, putting his head back down. Havoc laughed at his comrad’s failing, and walked up to the couch. 

“C’mon chief, settle down. Everyone means well.” Havoc ruffled Ed’s hair. He recoiled away from the touch, peeling his back from the couch. Havoc paused. At the end of Ed’s braid was a fraid blue ribbon. It was wrapped around his regular hair tie, making it a little harder to see. “Is that the ribbon from the hospital?” Havoc asked suddenly, a little too loudly for comfort. 

Edward’s face was red in an instant, and he’d turned so his back was away from sight. “What? No!” He protested, scrabbling to pull it out. 

“Man, I didn’t know you’d be so sentimental .” Breda chuckled. Edward’s face got redder. 

“I am not! It’s not– Al must’ve– Don’t–” 

“My Edward, it's rather pretty. It’s got sparkles in it.” Riza cut him off, suddenly behind him. Damn her sneaky skills. 

Tomato red and thoroughly embarrassed, Edward dropped his face into his hands and groaned.

He’d never been so humiliated before. He’d never been so surrounded by people like this before. He’d never felt so at home, either. It was like everything people talked about. Jerky older siblings and cousins toying around with their younger family members. 

Jeez… when did he get so sentimental?

~

“Those guys are… gone now, aren’t they?” Edward asked hesitantly, “I dunno why you gotta follow me around.” He grumbled, staring at Falman. 

Falman sighed and smiled, “Sorry chief, Colonel’s orders. Plus Riza would shoot me if I didn’t.” Edward pouted, turning his back to Falman. “Hey, don’t think about it like a chaperone, imagine I’m just an extra set of hands to help you with boring jobs.” Falman offered. 

Edward turned his head back to look at Falman and gave a half shrug. It was hard, being smothered like this. He stuffed his hands into his pockets petulantly, hiding curled up fists. He let one hand unfurl, reaching out to fidget with the worn ribbon Havoc had tied his hair with. He’d made the mistake not to ever wear it in his hair again. But it was scratchy and fraying, and good enough to fidget with when he was bored like this. 

He wasn’t really sure why, but he liked having it around. A ribbon off of a vase sent by one of the nurses who felt bad for him. A ribbon Havoc and Roy had used to tie back his hair when he couldn’t do it himself. Tired, and wounded, and still scared of any little noise or unfamiliar face. It was nice, a tender gesture on all their parts. Edward for allowing it, Havoc for doing it, and Roy for… For just being there. Again . 

“When’s your brother supposed to come again?” Falman asked. Edward was drawn out of his stupor at the sound of his brother’s name. Edward had been so ungodly proud and amused when he’d found out Alphonse had hurled his attacker out of a window. Of course, he was worried, but it’d been so bold. 

“Anytime now. Said he wanted to check the local library first while we were doin’ this.” Edward said, gesturing to the rather boring mineral inspection. Falman had said he’d been an extra pair of hands, but Edward was beyond spectacle. The poor guy didn’t know jack about minerals, or alchemy, or their chemical makeup. 

The clunky sound of armor approaching raised Ed’s mood. He turned away from the mine’s entrance to look at his brother. “There you are! Find anything good?” He asked, peering at Al. 

“No, the branch was too small. But the librarian was very nice. She recommended we check the library in the town over.” Alphonse replied, “But I don’t think it’ll be any new information.” he added, sounding disappointed. Edward heaved an angry sigh, this was a terrible trip. 

“Great. So we didn’t find anything useful either?! Jeez, when is Mustang gonna let us do somethin’ important!” Edward complained loudly. 

A worker just up ahead gave Edward an unimpressed look. “This work may be unimportant to you, Sir, but if the rock here isn’t stable enough it could cost us good men.” She chastised. Alphonse giggled as Edward fumed, embarrassed yet again. 

“Sorry about him, Sir. Should we, um, start the tour?” Falman interjected. If Edward kept this up, they’d both get into trouble. 

~

“Okay! I’ve had it!” Edward snapped, kicking Roy’s door open. He stared up at his subordinate, unamused. 

“I’m busy right now, Fullmetal. I don’t have time to entertain–” 

“Let me go on a real assignment! If I have to do one more routine check, I’m gonna transfer.” Edward threatened, shaking his pocket watch. 

“Edward, please quiet down. Some of us are trying to do work.” Riza said from her desk, not even raising her gaze. Struck by her tone, Edward stepped fully into Roy’s office and shut the door. Best not to anger Riza. 

“Fullmetal, I understand you’re,” Roy looked him up and down, “Upset. But as your legal guardian and superior officer, I haven’t been able to, in good concise, assign you to any difficult tasks.” Roy’s voice was firm, a tinge annoyed, and oddly soft. Edward would point it out in mocking if he wasn’t trying to avoid its meaning. 

“Stop- Stop sayin’ that.” Edward hissed through his clenched teeth. “You ain’t no dad , so just drop it! I thought you wanted me because I was useful, so make use of me.” 

Roy massaged the bridge of his nose, closing his eyes. “I am not your father, that is correct. But like I said, I am your legal guardian. It’s my responsibility to keep you in good health.” Roy had dropped commanding officer all together. Ed was starting to regret this. “You aren’t any good to be hurt or worse.” He pointed out. “So just accept these mundane tasks until medical has cleared you. I already dropped your guard, you could at least be grateful.” 

Edward gawked, “Be thankful? You’re kidding.” He clenched his fists at his side. 

“You can’t convince me until you say ‘thank you’, Fullmetal.” Roy said mundanely, looking back at his paperwork. 

“No way. Never .” 

“...” 

“I’m not sayin’ it!” 

“Edward, please go if that’s all.” 

Edward groaned in exasperation. “You can’t be serious.” no response. 

“Fine. Jeez. Thank you.” Edward said, like it really, truly hurt him to say. 

“Thank you Fullmetal. That’s all, you may leave.” Roy’s voice was thick with smugness and he was smirking down at his work. 

“Why you!!” Edward yelled, surging towards Roy’s desk when the door flung open. 

“Edward, I asked you to please quiet down.” Riza said simply, taking Edward by the shoulders and guiding him out. Edward was too flustered to notice as Riza and Roy made eye contact. Smiling to each other, Riza turned her eyes back to Edward. 

“Hey, I wasn’t done talking to him.” Edward complained, not wanting to snip at Hawkeye too much. 

“You are now.” Riza said with a smile, setting Edward down on the couch. “Try not to get too cross with him, Edward. He does all of this because he cares.” 

Edward crossed his arms, jutting out his lip petulantly. “Yeah, yeah.” he dismissed. But he knew she was right. He and the others had all been so jumpy on his behalf, constantly checking in on him. They’d always claim it was due to Roy’s orders, but that wasn’t the full truth. But for Roy to even order them too at all made Edward stop. Roy Mustang was soft. Roy Mustang was his legal guardian. But then, what was the explanation for the others? 

It’s not like they were a family. No. Definitely not. Nothing even close.