I'm getting anxious as to how your fic is going to finish and I am really liking all the tie-ins that accurately depict the behaviors and personalities of all the characters. Nicely done!

Riza pulled the key out of her pocket and slowly unlocked the door to her house. It had been a long day again of training and schoolwork, and she was extremely happy that it was the weekend. A chance to relax and catch up on a book, maybe go and visit her grandfather among other things.

School was going well. She was one of the top of her class, and she had become very good friends with a few people. She actually sort of enjoyed Havoc-kun’s presence. He was annoying and overbearing and very flirtatious, but it was fun to be around him. His arrogant personality counteracted her own and balanced her somewhat, and she did enjoy spending some time with him. Part of her told her that she would rather be with Roy, but she was beginning to accept that it might be a long time before she saw him again.

In the two years that Roy had been gone, she had grown accustomed to his absence. It was lonelier, she admitted, but it wasn’t so bad as she had thought it would be, and it was even relieving at times. She did miss him, but she knew he would be coming back to finish training with her father. Father… her heart stung a little as she said the word. Her father still refused to interact with her more than humanely possible, he was still angry with her for joining the military with out his consent.

He had grown so much worse over the years. She often heard him coughing late at night, and he was growing gaunt and pale. She tried to reach out to him; he was her father after all but- He would just bury himself deeper into his books. His eyes became haunted and his personal hygiene diminished. His face became unshaven and his hair grew long and haggard. He was living on borrowed time, and she found herself wishing more and more that Roy would return home before he was gone. She also knew that Roy would be able to talk to him, even talk some sense into him.

Pushing the door open and stepping into the cool darkness of the house, she turned and pulled the key from the lock. “Chichi-ue, I’m home,” She said softly, recalling how he used to always greet her when she returned home from school, but those days were gone.

She set the key down on the table near the door and continued to the kitchen. As she approached her father’s study, however, she thought she heard voices. Her father’s voice was speaking. His voice was harsh and rough; it was obvious his disease had taken its toll on his body.

“So, you have decided to become a soldier after all…”

Riza put her hand on the knob to open the door into the room to see whom he was talking to.

“…Roy.”

She stopped in midstep. He was back? She smiled for a minute before processing what her father had said. ‘Become a soldier after all?’ Had he also joined the military? She cringed. Her father would reject him, too, now, possibly never be willing to teach him the remaining secrets of the alchemy he had perfected. He had been waiting so long to teach that to him… Roy was the only student she knew he would even consider teaching the basics of flame alchemy. He had been kept for so much longer than any of her father’s previous students. Her thoughts were shattered as she heard Roy reply.

“Yes, sensei.” His voice had changed dramatically. It was so much deeper now, no longer the voice of a young boy, but that of a nearly grown man. She smiled slightly, taking comfort that he had kept his promise and returned. She closed her eyes and leaned against the wall outside of the room. Roy continued. “I thought eventually I would like to take the qualification for a state alchemist and work for my country.”

Riza inhaled. A state alchemist? Of course he had the talent, she knew. From her understanding and knowledge of it, Roy was exceptional in his abilities in the science. But still, he knew only the basics, and even the most advanced people wouldn’t be able to pass the exam with just that. And now, of course, her father would never reveal the secrets. Not if he was planning to use his skills for the government. There was a long pause. She knew her father was thinking of what Roy had said. A state alchemist would never be allowed to hold the final secrets of what he taught.

“As I thought,” He said hoarsely. “It’s still to early for you to be ‘the Flame Alchemist.’” Riza sighed again. Of course… if Roy had joined the military, he was still to child in his father’s eyes, one unwilling to see the consequences of his actions, and one who might never learn.

He had become like her.

“Still, is it?” Roy asked, probing her father gently. “In the end, you’ve only taught me the basics of alchemy up to now.”

“Of course,” Her father replied coolly. “It’s a waste to teach someone who would degrade himself by becoming a dog of the military even the fundamental concepts.” Riza blinked back tears. He had become just like her, forsaking the trust of her father, who was like a father to him also, to do what he felt he needed to. And now he was being told he was degrading himself for doing that. She wanted to scream. She wanted to go in there and tell her father that he did what he had to for a reason, and that he shouldn’t judge him until he knew and understood. He still didn’t understand her reason.

Roy spoke again, a little shakily. “’Alchemy is for the people,’ right?” He swallowed and regained his composure. “Sensei, I think that being useful to the military is linked to being useful to the people.” She smiled as she listened to his words. Still as naïve and foolish as ever. “Now that we are exposed to threats from the surrounding countries, strengthening the military is most urgent. To protect the nation, alchemy is-”

“I’m tired of listening to all those second-hand opinions.” He father said softly, yet hard enough to make his point.

“Sensei,” Roy continued, somewhat pleadingly now. “To think that if I had as much knowledge as you, it should be easy to take the state qualification.” He composed himself before continuing. “Honestly, I find it unbearable that someone of your caliber is smoldering in such destitution.” Roy said, referring to the house which had become unkempt and dilapidated since he had left. “If you were to take the state qualification and accept the issued research funds, your research would go even farther-”Her father cut him off suddenly.

“There is no need for that.” There was the small sound of a pen being set down. Roy stopped and let his teacher continue. “My research was perfected a long time ago.” He took a deep breath. “It is the strongest kind of alchemy. Depending on how it is used, it can also be the most deadly.” He paused. “And I became satisfied.”

Something in his voice made Riza’s breath catch. It sounded so hollow and empty, like the world crumbling in on itself and compressing into oblivion. That voice sounded so desperate and longing, like a thirst for a long awaited rain after a drought. But that voice was laced with so much malice, hatred and despicable abhorrence it sent chills up her spine.

“Alchemists are living beings,” Her father began to speak again. “Who, as long as they are alive cannot go on without seeking truth. When they stop their thinking, the ‘alchemist’ would die.” There was another loathsome silence. “That is why I am a human who died a long time ago.”

Again, something in his voice tugged at her chest. However, this time his tone was not so grisly or spine chilling, rather it was pitiable- pathetic and small, like a child crying over the loss of a parent, a colleague grieving the loss of a friend, a lover mourning over the death of a partner.

“Please don’t say such a thing,” Roy cut in, sounding somewhat desperate. “If you would please use that power for the good of the world, then…” He trailed off, unable to offer the right words.

Her father spoke again, softly this time, barely audible to her ears. “Power…” he mumbled. “So you want power, Roy?”

She heard a sound that would later plague her dreams and nightmares. The sound of flesh being ripped, a ragged gasp and choking. It tore through her very being, and she knew there could only be something horrible wrong on the other side of the closed door. She couldn’t bring her self to open it. She couldn’t open it.

Roy’s cry tore through her thoughts. “Sensei!” The scream was desperate and pleading, a heartfelt cry of anguish that tore through to her soul. She took a deep breath and placed a hand on the doorknob. “Sensei!” He called again, more frantically this time. Her father’s words came slowly, choked on words. His voice was rasping and it sounded as if he were drowning. She clutched the knob tighter. “Since I saw your growth...” He took a deep ragged breath. “With my own eyes…I thought of bestowing it on you…” Her father gasped, and the sound of more blood being coughed up was heard. Riza shuddered, but she couldn’t open the door yet. Something had tied her in a straight jacket, and she could feel cold malice breathing down her neck. “What a pity…don’t have any time left to teach you…” Her father choked out. His voice now sounded amused, as if he were laughing at this terror that had him in the grasp of its claws.

“What…?” Roy said softly, she hardly heard him make out the words.

“But my research…” The words came out painfully. “My daughter knows it all…” Her eyes widened. Did that mean he still approved of her teaching him? “If you’re saying you will use my alchemy… my power… in the correct way, she will probably present the secret to you…” He trailed off, the effort of speaking exhausting him.

“Please get a hold of yourself!” Roy called. Riza slowly began to turn the doorknob, but hen she heard something soft in between Roy’s cries. Her father’s voice. “I’m sorry…” She inhaled sharply. Who was he apologizing to? “I was so immersed in my research I couldn’t do anything for you…” Tears formed on the edges of her eyes. “I’m sorry, Riza…” She gasped slightly, a small hiss of breath that just barely escaped her. Roy called out again. “Sensei! Hawkeye-sensei!”

“Roy…” Her father said, slightly louder. “I’ll leave my daughter to you… please…”

“Someone!" Roy called frenziedly. Her hand tightened on the handle. It turned a corner of an inch.

“Please…”

“Someone call a doctor!”

Another inch.

“Is anyone here?” Roy’s voice was frantic now. She couldn’t stand it. She put her full weight against the handle and threw the door open. Roy was standing there, his new, crisp blue military uniform covered in her father’s blood. His left arm was clutching Mr. Hawkeye’s coat, and the other supported him from beneath. Her father had an arm draped over one of Roy’s shoulders. His eyes were unfocused, and blood was crusted against his lips. All of this hit her in less than one moment. All of the seriousness of colliding into her mind in a fraction of a second. Roy’s eyes looked at her from across the room. “Riza!” He cried.

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Her face was buried in her pillow. There was something comforting of the warm softness pressed against her body. Her face was dry; she hadn’t managed really to cry. Her mind wouldn’t recognize the fact that he was really gone. Her body would not function at all, though. She had stayed in bed all since yesterday, unwilling to eat or consider dozing off. She was exhausted, but couldn’t bring herself to close her eyes.

Roy had come in once to tell her that the doctor had been unable to save him. He had walked out of the room, dazed himself, and had wandered back down to the study to look through some of her father’s old books for something. His eyes were lost. Her grandfather had come also, and had sat next to her until night fell before leaving. He couldn’t come today.

Her stomach growled, but her body would not allow her to get up and go downstairs to the kitchen to get some food. She rolled over and looked at the wall. Something was cooking downstairs, but the smell didn’t entice her at all.

She didn’t feel anything.

The branch of the sycamore tree outside scraped softly against the window. The breeze whistled softly outside the window and Riza lost herself in the soft melody. She willed herself to blow away with it.

There was a small noise of a knock on the door. Riza turned in the bed to face the door and pulled the blankets of the bed up around her. “Come in,” She said blankly.

The door opened with a squeak and Roy stepped in. He was carrying a tray with what looked like a plate of cookies and a glass of milk. Riza smiled despite herself. Roy came over and set the cookies on the bedside table next to her. He sat down on the bed next to her. He looked at the ground. “Are you alright?” He said softly.

She shifted and looked at him. “I’m fine, Sir.” She said.

He twitched, and looked over at her. “What did you call me?”

“I’m sorry, sir, but, since you are now legally a military officer, and, I am still only a student at the Academy. As such it is proper that I call you Sir.” She said, voice devoid of emotion.

He shook his head “Riza, it doesn’t matter her, now, I mean, under the circumstances-”

“And it would probably be best f you referred to me as Hawkeye-san until I achieve any rank, sir.”

“Damn it, Riza, I’ve known you for seven years, you’re like my sister, I’m not gonna call you ‘Hawkeye-san’, it feels like I’m talking to your father.” She looked at the ground. “God, wait, I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have-” Roy said, jumping up. He stood for a second, moving his arms around aimlessly, trying to find something to day. Riza just stared at the ground. “You should eat, or something, I dunno, you’ve been up here for so long, and….” He trailed off and looked out the window.

Riza gingerly reached out and took a cookie from the plate that she had brought him. She sniffed it, and placed a small bit on her tongue. It was hard, crispy and burnt, but she smiled at the thought that he had tried to make them for her. She gratefully ate the rest of the cookie and downed the milk. She saw Roy had been looking at her.

“Feeling better?” He asked softly.

She nodded. “Thank you, Sir.”

Roy scowled. “For the last time, please, just-”

“This is how I was raised sir… I’m not going to go against it, now, even though he’s…” Her voice broke, and her mask cracked, and she turned away from him so he wouldn’t see her. Small sobs escaped her, and she made quick haste to wipe away the tears, but she couldn’t keep herself from crying. All of the events of the past day and a half flooded into her mind. She kept hearing her father’s voice, his apology. She heard Roy take a few steps toward her. She heard him hesitate, but then he rested a hand lightly on her shoulder.

The small action shattered her completely and she nearly broke down sobbing. She bowed her head into her knees and wrapped her arms around herself. Roy’s eyes widened as he saw what she had done. He kept his hand there as she cried, and began to rub her back softly. Somewhat unsure of how to respond any further, he tired to soothe her as best he could. “Shh, Riza, shh… please don’t cry…” He said softly. “It’s ok, please…please don’t cry.” He sat down on the bed behind her, and pulled her gently up against him, cradling her softly as she sobbed silently into his chest. He leaned down and whispered into her ear. “It’s ok, Riza, it’s ok. I’m here, it’s ok.”

She continued to sob softly against his uniform, wrapping her arms around herself. Shattered, noting to hide, she just cried. He softly rubbed her back and comforted her. Tears fell noiselessly across his face too as the full impact of what had happened hit him. He closed his eyes and blinked back the tears that were falling silently down his cheeks. He bent his head down and leaned into her hair. Her hair smelled really sweet, he noticed. He breathed it in, it somehow helped to soothe his nerves. His tears fell into her hair and he reached up with a hand to dry his face. He felt her arms slip around him and he hugged her closer. They sat there for a long time, both simply content to have a shoulder to cry on.

“So,” He whispered into her hair, voice broken. “Are you going to be ok?”

She nodded against his uniform. “I’ll be fine, Sir.”

“God, Riza,” He said. “Do you have to call me that now?” He whispered against her. She buried her face farther into his shirt, tears still shaking her small frame. “I’m sorry… it’s just… I can’t. I can’t.” She began to cry a little bit harder now, and he held her closer to him again. “No, Riza… it’s ok… I…” He paused. “I don’t know. I don’t know anything anymore.”

She leaned away from him and wiped her face off. “You’ll be fine. It’s ok. You’re strong, I know.”

He nodded, still broken. She hugged him close again, and he took her into his arms. Neither said anything anymore, nothing more could be said. The pain of the loss still vivid in both their minds, they simply sat holding one another, giving all the innocence in comfort that could be given.

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Ok, So it was longer than the last time, although its not my longest one yet. I hope you liked the small fluffiness at the end. More to follow, I promise.

Wow the manga chapter came back to my head really quick when I read that sentence of her father's death. Even though its not all that funny. I love the fluff at the end of it I ask nicely(''Demand'' sounded pushy )more fluffness for Roy and Riza!

this rocks
more more more

this chapter rockzz although its so sad... yup, more fluffness for Roy and Riza please X3

i kept reading the last part of this chapter over and over again, its so sad yet sweet and comforting. if you were to listen to the sad-slow melody in played in the series while reading, please prepare some tissues...
i've attatched the song below...
if problems pop-up, please tell me =X

wow....

There couldn't have been any better timing for the two of them to break down their barriers and find comfort with each other.

Bravo!

Yep, I have to strongly agree with all those comments!

If there were one thing he would always remember, it would be the heat.

The desert. Its fire raged writhing him, a tortured beast that ripped at his ribcage and ached for its freedom. The sand was everywhere. In the tents, in his clothes, in his eyes, in his food. Nothing was kept sacred from this harsh environment. He wasn’t exactly sure how he had ended up here. After graduating from the military academy he had been thrown around form multiple places until now: The annihilation campaign. Youngest state alchemist ever to be admitted into Amestris Military. He had been eighteen at the time. He smiled at his achievements, then, laughed. Riza had stood behind him then. But he hadn’t seen her for five years.

Now, he despised himself, he hated everything about him. He hated who he was, that he was powerful, he hated his abilities, everything. He wanted to drown everything he had into nothingness, crush his soul into the black oblivion of death. He hated it. He hated himself. His achievements, his goals. But most of all he hated his eyes.

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It was the same every morning. Get up; wipe the sand from your boots. Check for scorpions in the military regulation uniform. Wipe off your face with a cold rag then go eat some slop while waiting to be herded off like cattle to a slaughterhouse. He lost all feeling except anger. That and survival. That was all that kept him going.

Days blurred into weeks. He had been shipped about to multiple camps, burning and igniting homes, killing needlessly. His hands became drenched in blood; his soul was torn into two. Life became a burden, not something one was willing to bear for the sake of living. He often found himself wondering if maybe it would all be easier if he just ended it now. But he was too cowardly. Always to cowardly.

This morning was no different from a thousand others. Get up. Move. Eat. Kill. Kill or be killed, kill and keep killing. Death was what his world was now. They always whispered about them. He heard it at night from behind his tent flaps. All the men spoke about him and what he had done. His horrendous power. They mumbled quietly amongst themselves when he stepped onto the battlefield, saying his name with either reverence or terror. There wasn’t much difference in the two now. “The Flame Alchemist is coming.”

Nights were a relief. He stumbled back to the camp, drenched in sweat and grime. He would lift up the tent flap and strip himself of the garments that marked him as a murderer, lay on his bed and sleep. That was it. Dreamless nights, a solace quite similar to that of death.

Tonight was different. Unlike the morning, in which he had moved along at the war’s pace, the night he returned, something had snapped him from his dreary cycle. A smile that always had managed to find him, and still annoy him. However, to see it now was an enormous comfort. An oasis in the desert of blood.

“Roy!”

He turned his head. His eyes that had been dead seconds before showed a small bit of the old spark he had had as a boy. He even smiled. “Hughes!” He exclaimed relieved, even happy. “So, you’re here too?”

Hughes flashed him one of those annoying smiles Roy had learned to put up with over the years. He still often found himself restraining the urge to slap him, but now he managed relatively well. “It’s been a while, Roy.”

Roy smirked while pulling off the white and red stitched gloves that adorned his hands. He shivered whenever he saw the markings on them, unpleasant circumstances coming to mind. He wasn’t one to relive the unpleasant past. Hughes watched him carefully. “Ooh, you’re ‘Major Mustang’ now, aren’t you?’ He asked quizzically, surveying his friend’s uniform. Roy examined the glove, and then offered his hand to Hughes. It was a handshake they had developed as boys in the academy, and Roy smiled at how simply the world had been then. Hughes knocked his fist with his own. Roy grinned. “Actually, to be precise, it’s ‘a position equivalent to a major.’ I actually have only as much authority as a captain,” Roy said, somewhat sadistically.

“Haha! Same as me!” Hughes said, smiling annoyingly.

Roy began to wash his face from a communal basin that was set up in the middle of the camp. “You became a captain? When?” He said between scrubs.

“Just now!” Hughes said proudly. Ever optimistic, even at this time. “Out ere people both high and low keep dying.” His voice began to trail off slightly. “If you gain a little credit…” He paused, looking his friend over carefully. “You…” He began. “You’ve got a different look in your eyes.” He said, sounding a little concerned.

Roy looked down into the pool of water. “You do too,” He replied, glaring at his reflection, willing it to spontaneously combust into thousands of particles. “It’s a killer’s eyes.”

Hughes smiled knowingly. “Yeah.”

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“It feels familiar, like it was just a while ago,” Hughes saying to him as the two old friends wandered around outside the camp. “Your eyes were sparkling at the military academy. We sure talked a lot about the country’s future...”

Bodies littered the ground around them. Their brown skin made them easily recognizable as ishbalans, but their blood, which soaked the sand, was the same color as the blood of their own men. Neither of them noticed, their eyes hardened to death. “Yeah, we sure did,” Roy answered, ginning. “About the ‘beautiful future.’”

Hughes looked off into the distance towards an old man in a cart. More than likely he was driving towards his death. There was nothing out there.

“Ahh, man,” He sighed. “This stuff wasn’t included in that future.” He turned from gazing into the distance and turned to look at Roy. “So, how’s life here?”

“Not much,” Roy answered, not returning his friend’s gaze. “Blast artillery at them, corner them in, surround hem, and burn them. Then we thoroughly shoot up whoever is left. Just a repetition of that.” He said in a monotone. Any horror he held at the notion was gone. Another reason he despised himself.

“Do they really plan to continue this until every last Ishbalan is killed?” Hughes said, mostly to himself. “Throwing even state alchemists out here…”

“Hey Hughes,” Roy said, cutting him off.

“Hmm?” Hughes replied, looking over at him with his square framed glasses.

“This annihilation campaign…if the goal is only to suppress the rebellion, don’t you think there are too many risks?”

“I was thinking of that too,” Hughes said in a serious tone that was unbecoming of him. “This place doesn’t have much natural resources to speak of.” Ever the researcher. “After wasting armaments to this extent, he only thing to be gained is ‘peace in the east.’ At a time when the west and south are also in an explosive state, too.”

“I don’t understand, Roy said, turning his back on Maes. “If there something to go that far for?”

“Right now, it’s just about ceased,” Hughes responded. “But if they’re to make this place into a base for trade with various eastern countries in the future…”

“It would be tasteless to render is to a burnt field.” Roy finished for him. The two stood in silence for a while, only to have it broken by an eager private. “Lieutenant! Lieutenant Hughes!” Hughes turned, a disgruntled look on his face. “It’s captain.” He said quickly. The private blushed, snapping to attention. “Oh, excuse me sir!” He quickly regained his composure and reached into the folds of his jacket. “It’s a letter,” He said, handing it to the now ginning Captain, and he was gone.

“Ohh!” Hughes exploded looking the letter over and over again with eager eyes. Roy glared. “What is it?” He demanded.

Hughes’ face lit up like a lantern at midnight. “It’s my beautiful future.” He said in a singsong voice. Roy glanced at the letter and looked at the return address. “Gracia? A woman?”

“She’s in central,” Hughes giggled happily. “She’s been waiting for my return all this time!” He hugged the letter close to him before receiving an epiphany that made his face darken. “Ahh! What’ll I do if some other guy is making a pass at her?” He demanded. Roy opened his mouth but was cut off as Hughes answered his own question. “No, there’s no way Gracia would leave a great guy like me to have an affair. No, no, no, but there’s still no way guys around her would leave such a great woman alone…” More than likely he would have gone on had he not heard Roy’s voce behind him, seeping with venom.

“Hughes… I’ll give you one word of advice…” He said dangerously. “It’s a common pattern in movies and novels. Guys who talk happily about their family or lovers on the battlefield have a high chance of dying. Stop it right there.”

Hughes’ vein popped. “And what about you!” He rounded one Roy who stepped back a couple of feet. “Don’t you have something lighthearted to talk about?”

There was a snap of a twig and both men turned around suddenly. A tall man, covered in blood, eyes red as fire and dark skin was standing over them, a large and deadly knife raised. They had been so caught up in their conversation that they had not noticed one of the corpses around them had not been a corpse. Roy blindly reached to snap before he realized he had no gloves on. His eyes widened in fear, and he noticed Hughes going for one of his throwing knives, but the man was on them and was better armed than they. There was little chance they could move or defend themselves. Roy braced himself.

It turned out it he didn’t need to. Just as the Ishbalan was about to come down on Hughes, an enormous crack was heard. The man was thrown sideways, blood spraying from his skull. Roy watched din surprise as the man hit the ground with a dull thud. “A gunshot?” He asked, yanking on his gloves to defend himself and Hughes if need be.

“It’s ok, Roy,” Hughes said, shoving the knife back into his pocket. Roy glanced at him, a bit unsure. “We’ve got a hawk’s eye on us,” He said slowly. Roy looked over to him, a little confused. “Hawk?” He repeated.

“Yeah,” Hughes responded, straightening himself up. “It’s still a nameless sniper. It’s been quite a topic among us. She’s still a cadet from the military academy, but at any rate she’s got great aim. It seems she’s been brought all the way out here.” He paused for a moment before continuing morbidly. “Ha… to think they would have to pull out a little chick like that… This must be the end.”

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She watched him through the scope of her rifle, looking over his square face head and glasses. Yeah, she’d seen him before. Same as every other soldier. She moved to look at his companion and stopped. Black, messy hair, eastern eyes… He seemed to be looking at her. Her eyes widened.

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Roy and Hughes walked back through the camp, casually glancing at the other soldiers who were preparing to get some sleep before heading out the next day for more of the bloodshed. They were silent; all that had needed saying had already been said. Roy watched his feet move, not glancing up at the other soldiers, not really wanting to become close.

Hughes tapped hi shoulder. “There she is,” He said, motioning to a small figure near the campfire. She had a blanket draped over her and a rifle by her side. She seemed to be withdrawn from the rest of the group, Roy noticed, not even raising he head when a soldier offered her a mug of the watery coffee that they served. Hughes began to walk forward before Roy could stop him. “Yo!” He said in a singsong voice. “Thanks for before,” He said to the girl. “You were the one who shot that, right?” He asked, grinning ear to ear. The figure slowly turned her gaze to him and rose from her position to stand. Roy stared at her.

‘It’s been a while, Mustang-san,” She said in a monotone. Roy’s eyes widened as he looked over her. It had to be her, he had no doubt. Who else had that sort of aim? But she was different now. Her face was dirty and gaunt, she had lost weight, it seemed. The military coat and boots didn’t belong on her, he thought. That trench coat should be on someone else’s shoulders, any one’s but hers.

He head Hughes make a confused sort of noise behind him, wondering where he knew this mysterious sniper who was so brilliant in the art of killing.

She continued. “No, perhaps I should call you Major Mustang now,” She said softly. “Have you begun to remember?” She asked.

His eyes narrowed in sorrow. “How could I forget?” He asked quietly. He couldn’t stand it. He couldn’t stand seeing this girl that he had grown up with being in this place. No, it wasn’t right. Young girls shouldn’t be at war. But, no, she wasn’t a girl anymore. Wars did that to people. Even she now had the killer’s eyes. And that was what probably disturbed him the most.

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He stood behind her, looking down at her small form enveloped by the night. All of the others had long gone to bed; even Hughes had retreated to the safety of his own tent. She was speaking now, he words choked. He didn’t say anything, nothing could possibly be said.

“Because the sight of him absorbed I his research was as if he was possessed by something…” She said quietly. “I believed in my father’s words that this great power would bring happiness to many people.” She swallowed nervously. “I… I believed that alchemy would give people dreams ad hope… and that the military would protect the people’s future. Please, tell me major, why are soldiers who ought to be protecting citizens killing them in stead? Why is alchemy, which is supposed to bring happiness to the people, being used for murder?”

He couldn’t answer.

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Another manga based chapter… I feel kind of bad. Next chapter is going to be completely original, though. I needed this in here to get it set up. Now, I must apologize to all those who wanted to see Riza teaching Roy alchemy. Sorry! I couldn’t do it. I’m waiting for Arakawa sensei to show us that. -hangs head in shame- Forgive me.

Hey no problem at all!

Every now and then you got to go back to the roots. It keeps it accurate as well as original. Can't wait to read what you got coming next!

*nods in agreement*
\:lol:/ No big deal!! Its still as great XD, I love how you described the scene

tyguy is correct! Sometimes you should stick to the originals to keep it on the right track~

Yeah thats true Nil-chan could be a movie maker if they ever wanna come out with a second FMA movie you'd see me in the theater,middle row with soda,popcorn and sour straws and milk duds. Another job well done Nil-chan the amount of expression that comes through the story writing is none other than amazing.

You really got a way with words! Keep up the good work!

The morning air in the desert was dry and fresh. Its airy breeze was a soft lull that almost willed Riza to forget where she really was. The air that blew through the flap in her tent was crisp and delicate, and the sweat on her brow was the only thing that brought her back to the present.

She sat up in her tent and rested her head in her hands. The morning bugle was calling, and that meant that she needed to drag her tired body from the bed and prepare for the day’s assignments. Recently she had been assigned to guard the camp; she had yet to go far into actually enemy territory.

But she was still a murderer.

She stepped out into the morning air and shielded her eyes from the morning sun. The slight draft ruffled her hair and cooled her face, drenched in the sweat of a long forgotten nightmare. Other soldiers were beginning to emerge from their tents, the flaps blowing uselessly in the breeze.

She turned at the sound of footsteps behind her. An arm draped around her shoulder. “Yo!” She recognized Roy’s friend, Maes, or something. “General Camden wants to see you today. I think your little performance might have gotten you recognized.” He nudged her in the ribs. “You got great aim, you know?”

“Thanks,” She said, a little uncomfortable with this man. “Do you mind?” She said when he didn’t remove his arm from around her shoulder. He looked at his arm, then at her, and then a look of realization dawned on his face. “Oh, yeah, sure.” He said. “You know where the general’s tent is, right?”

“Yes, Captain, I believe I can manage myself from here on out.”

“Hey, now, don’t be so eager. I have to come too. I got a notice saying to get the sniper girl and go see General Camden. So, looks like you are stuck with me!” He said, gleefully putting an arm around her shoulder. Riza had an uncomfortable look on her face, but Hughes either didn’t notice or didn’t care because he kept his arm there as the two marched off to the general’s tent. “You know,” He said. “I’ve got a great girlfriend waiting for me back at central…”

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“Captain Hughes.”

Maes raised his hand to salute the old man at the table in front of him. “Sir.”

“Did you bring her here?”

“Yes sir, this is Cadet Hawkeye, I believe.”

The old man turned to look her in the eye. “Cadet Hawkeye, is it?”

She snapped to attention. “Yes, sir.”

He smiled. “Your skills are legend in this camp my dear, your name suits you well.”

“I am honored by your compliments.”

He grinned. “The higher-ups believe you would be an ideal member of a reconnaissance mission. We have selected a team of three people to accompany a State Alchemist further into enemy territory to determine or bearing in the area. You are to protect him at all times, ask no questions and follow orders. Am I understood?”

“Yes sir.”

“Very well. Captain Maes Hughes,” The general turned to him. “You have been given the same mission. The third member of your party will arrive shortly. For the time being, the two of you return to your tents and gather supplies needed. You will be away from camp for approximately one week if all goes well. You have until 0600 hours, and then you will both report directly here. Understood?”

“Yes, sir.” They both answered, saluting.

“Dismissed.”

They turned and walked out the door. Once the flap of the tent closed behind them, Hughes whistled. “Wow, already getting a mission, that’s pretty impressive for a cadet of your age.”

“I appreciate the compliments.”

Hughes eyed her warily, a bit unsure of how to act around this extremely stern Cadet. Her attitude was more like one of a General, someone experienced in the way of the military since birth. It was hard to see her as a young girl here. But wars change people.

When she returned to her tent, Riza carefully arranged all the materials on her cot. She checked the guns and filled the canteens, and carefully peaked any medical supplies that may prove necessary. Packing light was essential on a reconnaissance mission. She would have to be ready for anything.

Adjusting her uniform further, she swung the light pack over her back and walked back to the Generals tent, back strait. She didn’t think of the consequences this mission may present. Her cold eyes focused only on the immediate future.

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She was not the first one to return to the tent, it seemed. Although she prided herself on her ability to be extremely punctual and often early, she had been beaten. The third member of their part was seated on the ground with his head in his lap. The general, it seemed, was further back in the recesses of the tent. Voices could be heard, and apparently it was not a good time to attempt to inform the general of her return. She removed the pack from her back and set on the floor and sat down on a chair that was near the flap of the door.

The other man, hearing her movements, looked up at her. The unlit cigarette he had been chewing on wagged between his teeth as he recognized her. She did not look at him; rather, she stared straight ahead, so he assumed she didn’t see him at all. His blue eyes looked her over and admired the changes she had undergone since he had last seen her.

“Well, you’ve certainly become a fine woman,” He said, standing up and shoving his hands in his pockets. She glanced over at him. “Havoc-san?” She said, looking him over. “So they’ve pulled you out too, then, I assume.”

“Yup,” He sighed, putting his hands behind his head. “I just got here this morning, and now they’re sending me out right away.”

“So you’ve only just arrived,” She said softly as if that explained the way he was acting. He frowned at her. “Yeah. Caught the last rain out to this base last night, pulled up here at 0440 hours. This guy comes up and says I’m wanted on a reconnaissance mission. Don’t know why they’d want me though. Still a cadet, myself. And I would assume you’re one, too.”

“I’ve been out here longer.”

“Ah, well, then. Guess they don’t want to spare to many important people for this, huh? They’re already sending out a Captain and an Alchemist, no more valuable blood should be wasted, right? So what d’you do? Send two cadets along with them.” He smiled. “Gives us a chance to prove ourselves, though.”

“Have you been outside the camp yet?”

“Not yet, I-”

At that moment, the general stepped through the folds of the tent into the front room. “Ah, Cadet Hawkeye, Cadet Havoc, you have arrived. Captain Hughes will be joining us shortly.”

Riza stood and saluted, and Jean followed her example. The general waved his hand and motioned for them to be at ease. “Here is the State Alchemist you will be accompanying,” He said, holding open the flaps of the tent for another man to pass through. The two saluted him, but the man’s eyes widened when he saw them. “Sir,” he said turning and saluting to the general. “Permission to make a request?”

The old man turned to him. “Granted.”

“Please let me exchange the cadet for another member.”

The old man turned and looked the two cadets over, and then turned back to the Alchemist. “They are both of the same rank, Major.”

“Permission to exchange Cadet Hawkeye for a different soldier.”

“Why, Mustang is she incompetent?”

Riza watched Roy quietly, anger building slightly inside her for what he was saying. Surely he knew she could hear every word? In truth, she hadn’t expected to accompany him; he was one of the younger alchemists. She had expected maybe to accompany the Silver Alchemist, or even Major Armstrong as he now was, but the fact that she would be accompanying Roy made no difference in her resoluteness to follow orders. Jean, sensing her tenseness looked at her from the corner of his eye and then back to the man.

“No, sir, I do not doubt her abilities.”

“Then why do you request the change?”

“Permission to speak freely, sir?”

“Granted.”

“She’s a child, sir!”

Riza’s face reddened. The general noticed this, and turned back to Mustang. “She’s no younger than the other cadets. That young man there is the same age as she.”

“But, sir-”

“Mustang, I am no fonder than you of the idea of sending fine young women out to war, however, it was not my decision to place her in this party and therefore I have no right to allow you to exchange her position with others. If it is that important to you however, I might-”

“Sir, permission to speak,” Riza spoke up. All three men in the room turned to look at the still saluting cadet. “Granted,” The general said again. He was beginning to hate and fear the word.

“If it pleases you, sir, I request to remain on the mission with the Major. If I was chosen by the higher-ups, it seems fitting that I remain here.”

Roy looked at her, and shook his head slightly. She ignored him. She kept her eyes focused on the General, her face firm and resolute.

“Permission granted.” He said. “That will be the most logical course of action. Mustang, you will find the remaining member of the party and depart immediately. You know your orders.”

“Yes sir,” He said resigned. He strode past Havoc and Hawkeye and exited the doorway. The cadets waited for him to part before following after him. He stayed in front of them and Riza walked by Jean who whispered at her. “You should have taken the chance to get out of this.”

“I have been assigned a mission, and I won’t throw it aside so easily.”

He sighed. “God, you have the book memorized don’t you?”

“Forwards and backwards.”

Captain Hughes was waiting at the gate to the camp. He saluted Roy briefly with a grin on his face and then they turned and headed away from the camp, Riza and Jean following silently behind the two men.

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“Oh, God,” Havoc sighed as soon as they were a decent distance from the camp. “Oh, God…” The unlit cigarette hung from his mouth and his eyes were wide in absolute horror. “Please tell me this isn’t real.”

Roy and Maes, who were leading, turned and stopped to look back at Havoc who had stopped dead in his tracks. Riza stood still, facing forward, eyes not wandering from the path ahead of her.

The smell of blood was overpowering. Blood and sweat mingled with the dusty air. The sun overhead had baked the smell into the ground, and their boots were crusted with grime. It was the number of bodies that had unnerved Havoc. The dead were strewn everywhere. Bodies of full-grown men had their limbs hacked, blood and insides strewn about their remains. Women were there too, but it was the bodies of the children that scared him the most, dead eyes staring vacantly into space.

The stench was unbearable. Havoc coughed and began to wretch. He dropped to his knees and vomited. Maes turned and walked back and put a hand on his back comfortingly. “He’s never been out before, has he?” He asked quietly as Havoc continued to relieve himself of his breakfast. The smell of vomit mingled with the already pungent reek of decay.

Riza shook her head. “He told me he had arrived this morning, Sir.”

“What are they thinking, sending kids out here like this?” Hughes murmured as he turned and supported Havoc who was now a slight shade of green. He turned and walked with Havoc’s arm over his shoulder, picking his way carefully among the bodies of the dead, past Roy who kept his eye on Riza. He motioned for her to come and walk beside him. She complied.

“Why did you do that?” He hissed at her while Hughes and Havoc walked further on.

“I don’t understand sir.”

“Why did you come?”

“It was an order.”

“You could have refused, I could have-”

“What you wished was irrelevant, sir, it was my decision to serve on this mission.”

“God damn it, Riza,” He sighed. “I don’t want you out here, I don’t want you to end up like him,” He said motioning to Havoc. “Something could happen, and I-”

“It is improper for you to address me so familiarly while on a mission sir, and I must inquire, are you implying that I am incompetent to take on this mission?

“No,” He said. “Just- Look, I promised your dad I’d take care of you, ok? I don’t want anything-”

“Nothing is going to happen to me, sir. I am perfectly capable of looking after myself. Just because I am a female has nothing to do with my ability to protect you or myself.”

“I know it doesn’t matter that you’re a girl, I thought you’d have figured out I’d learned that from growing up in the same house as you.”

“Then, with all due respect, sir, don’t underestimate me.”

He sighed, resigned, and raised his head to the sky. In front of them, the sun was rising farther into the sky. The blood red light a dangerous omen of what was yet to come.

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So, there you are, and original chapter to balance the two manga based ones I threw at you. Hope you like!

Oh Cliffhanger!
Where are they going? What will happen? Will this explain why Riza's so protective of Roy? All these questions!

I love this chapter! It's full of suspense of the things that lie ahead.
I like how you write their emotions, I really feel sorry for them.
And Roy trying to spare Riza from the horrors, that was just so sweet!

As many before me have said, the manga based ones don't bother me at all! They need to be there, what else could you write. They don't look weird in your story at all. That alone shows how close you are to the 'real deal'

I hope I can say something about your older chapters too, since I was really behind in reading it..
I loved the one where you introduced Hughes! It really brought a smile to my face, which didn't go away.
And Havoc was trying to hit one Riza! LOL Too bad Havoc! There's only one man for her

Anyway, I really enjoy reading your fic! I hope you'll believe me when I say it's way better than those official novels
Keep it up! Can't wait for your next update!

Keoni's right! It's an original chapter yeah but it seems like it could still be apart of the manga if they'd ever make a behind the scenes history of the military at this point and time. Another well chapter down and you always leave your fans begging for more and awaiting the next chapter faithfully.

They've said all I wanted to say!! That's not fair! XD Anyway, I THINK I know what's going to happen... Blood red sky... Always means something about the weather~~

I'm out of words to describe this chapter Nil-chan, Keoni & Knil stole them
Hang on, I thought of something.. Roy and Riza are so protective on each other in here.. How sweet~ Its touchy to have Royai in the middle of the war, you know..
Excellent job done again, Nil-chan !!! You're such a talented writer, you know..

Well...it's official, you definitely got these characters down!

It's all your subtleties that bring soooo much dynamics. I can actually see every moment in my mind. You surely have a gift of bringing such dimensions to each character. Very very very well done!!!

Their steps over the hot sand formed a pulsing rhythm that was accented by the soft slipping of the sands. Every once in a while a spider would slip out in front of them before seeking the shelter of darkness beneath the scorching sands.

Roy was leading, his hands shoved gloomily in his pockets, eyes closed to the world. Maes was close behind, still supporting Havoc, although he was starting to come more to himself and was walking mostly on his own. Riza brought up the rear, her chocolate colored eyes scanning the landscape carefully for any intrusion other than a wayward snake that might cross the desert before him.

Steps became faster and the sound of the pounding of their hearts increased as they grew farther and farther from the camp. On the horizon shapes loomed, old buildings long abandoned in favor of stronger shelter.

Nothing was said, all eyes focused coldly in front of them. Ragged breath being drawn was the only sound that punctuated the monotonous rhythm of their boots.

A small shape on the horizon caught Riza’s eyes. It was small and not really noticeable at first. It shivered and faded into the sandy winds. It had been too vague to determine who it was, but for certain it was a person.

“Sir,” Riza said, breaking the cold silence with a voice dry from lack of water and the heat. “There is someone up ahead.”

Roy and Maes glanced back at them and then gazed at the horizon. “No one now. Jeep moving, act like nothing is wrong. Move faster.” Maes suggested.

And so they hurried. Their steps increased and they neared the old abandoned town. It crept closer towards them, drawing nearer and nearer. A sound of shifting sands reached their ears. Roy looked around, and motioned for them to move faster than they had. Havoc groaned at the effort to move faster, he was still sick from the earlier encounter with death. Maes pushed him on, but he was falling behind as well and was no level with Riza. “Go,” He whispered at her. “Cover Roy. I’ll take the back. Go!”

She nodded and moved ahead to catch up with the alchemist. He looked at her from the corner of his eyes. “They’re following. Quickly.”

She carefully reached down for the holster on the side of her thigh. She noticed that Roy was pulling on his gloves. He nodded back at Hughes who had pulled out his gun and Havoc, who was running on his own now, pull the rifle off of his back. And so they moved. The shadows in the wind became firmer, and sounds came closer.

The Ishbalans were closing in on them.

And then they were there. There were probably twenty of them, all carrying knifes and some had rifles as well. “Move!” Maes called out seeing the Ishbalans moving forward with speed only capable of desperate men. And they ran.

Roy was ahead, a finger poised dangerously to snap, but for some reason he found himself unable. The Ishbalans were close; Maes and Havoc firing haphazardly over their shoulders, praying that a bullet may find its target. Riza was conserving her own ammunition, should she become desperate. He could have ended it all there, snapped his fingers and disintegrating their attackers, but when he looked over his shoulder and began to rearrange the oxygen molecules in the air, he saw her and stopped. He couldn’t kill in front of her.

They were walking into a trap. Heading into the dead city was suicide. The Ishbalans knew their territory better than they; they were here after all on a reconnaissance mission to get to know the territory. They were heading to a situation where they were vulnerable in the open to a situation where they were vulnerable to an ambush.

The cries of the crazed rebels behind them pushed the small group onwards. Their breathing becoming more ragged, steps loosing all continuity and pattern forsaken for the desperation of flight. Riza turned and fired two shots behind them, past Maes and Havoc, stopping suddenly. She saw two people fall and began to prepare her shotgun for another round, but she felt Roy tug on her arm and push her forward before she could do such a thing.

They were in the village now, shots echoed off of the dead walls. Maes and Havoc were farther behind them now, and the gap was growing. Riza began to slow to a halt to wait for her comrades but Roy stopped her. “No, Cadet, they’ll be fine. You stay with me. Come on!”

And so she followed.

Scrams of rage followed the pair of officers as they wove through the forgotten town, passing through alleyways, trying desperately to evade their deadly pursuers. Riza’s mind was racing, she knew Roy could stop all pursuit with a simple motion of his hand, but for some reason he kept running, always making sure she was by his side.

She felt a bullet hiss over her shoulder and saw it ricochet off a wall further ahead. She glanced quickly behind her but saw no one. Looking wildly about, she began to hear footsteps coming from above her. “Sir,” She called out to him, breathing labored, her stride slowing. “They’re on the roof,” She gasped.

He was panting too. They couldn’t continue much longer, he had to do something, anything. He began once again to position his fingers when she cried out again. “Look out!” He hastily dropped his head as he ran and saw something fly past him. He didn’t bother to see what it possibly could have been. He lowered his hands.

Up ahead, a small house began to develop in his vision. It was small, and it looked as if it had been abandoned long before the war had forced people from the city. It was very small and compressed, more of a shack than anything. It’s entrance made way only for one person to enter at a time.

Ducking into the building to catch his breath, Roy grabbed Riza’s arm and pulled her in after him. The two ran down steps in the house that lead to the basement. He pulled her into an alcove that was carved into the wall by an errant bombshell. He pressed her up against him, her back against his chest and covered her mouth with a gloved hand in an attempt to stop her labored breathing. “Please, quiet,” He hissed at her.

She shoved his hand off of her mouth but didn’t leap away from him. “Why can’t you just end this?” She hissed back. “I know what you can do, sir, don’t say you can’t do it. All the conditions are fine. And now we’re separated from Havoc and Captain Hughes. It’s all your fault.” She was close to yelling at him. “Maybe you are the one who is incompetent.”

“It’s not that,” He said whispering at her. “ I know, I know I could have ended this anytime I wanted to, it’s just… I don’t know. I go to snap my fingers, and in my mind I see the people crumbling helpless on the ground before me, their bodies charred and smoking, and I’m afraid. I know I need to, I know it’s orders, and I know I’ve done it plenty of times before. But… for some reason it’s different for me this time.”

She stepped away from the fissure in the wall, deeming the surroundings safe enough to take a few precarious glances around the room. It was dark, all though the darkness was neither opaque nor complete. And eerie red tinge covered the far wall, but the rest of the room was bathed in a dark bluish hue. From outside, the voices of angry men could be heard, but they did not appear to be any where near where the entrance to the building would be.

“I hate this war as much as you do, sir. I hate that we are forced to kill. But we don’t have a choice right now, do you understand? We will die if you won’t protect us.” The meaning of her words struck him like a slap across the face. I will die if you won’t protect me.

“I…” He began. He couldn’t compose the words. I can’t let me see you kill. I can’t let you think of me as a murderer. “I don’t want to have to protect you. I mean… I will, I could never let you die; I couldn’t stand to let anyone I care about die when I could have protected them. I just wish the circumstances were different. I wish I didn’t have to protect you.”

She turned from her solemn exploration of the moldy cellar and back to face him. “You chose this road. I chose this road. We both knew what we would have to do. WE both welcomed it with open arms. If I had not, I would not have volunteered to go on this mission when you could have had me removed. Better yet, I would not have gone against my father’s wishes and joined the military. You would not have become a state alchemist if you did not already accept the consequences.”

He bowed his head in submission. She was right of course. Damn it, she was always right.

His thoughts were pushed from his head by the sounds of wild men’s screams. “Cadet!” He called and grabbed her arm and threw her behind him. “Stay back,” He said softly. She nodded and pulled out her shotgun and aimed it carefully over his shoulder.

There was he sound of thunderous footsteps in the small house and twelve men jumped almost simultaneously down the cellar. Turning their red eyes to the two militants in the corner, the tallest one, who was obviously the leader, turned to the rest of the group and pointed at them. He spoke in the Ishbalan language to them, and it must have been a command of some sort because the rest of the people began to advance slowly upon the two. Roy’s eyes focused calmly ahead, assessing the situation. Riza’s grip tightened on the shotgun in her hands.

She fired.

Roy jumped at thee sound of the rifle in his ears, and glanced quickly over his shoulder at her to make sure it was really her gun. This was a mistake. “Sir!” She cried out ad the Ishbalans, noticing their fallen comrade leapt at them, one driving his knife straight at Roy. She quickly beat him out of the way with the side of the gun, knocking him flat onto the ground and she fired again.

He landed on his back and turned over quickly to avoid being impaled by another’s knife. He jumped up and caught another man who was after him in the chest with a fist, and the man fell to the ground winded.

However, no matter the skill, two people cannot match twelve, even if three were dead or out of commission. Especially not if the twelve opponents in question were rebel militants fueled by hatred.

The Ishbalans, having already closed in on Riza’s position grabbed her gun and another came up behind her and held her by her neck in a headlock. She kicked the one behind her in the groin, causing him to release her and stumble, but another two swarmed in on her to grab her arms and pinned her to the wall behind her, the rifle falling uselessly to the ground.

Roy, who was busy dealing with the other five Ishbalans didn’t notice what they had done until she cried out.

“Major!” Her voice was angry, not desperate.

Not a moment of hesitation hung in his mind then. He took a step forward, and snapped.

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It was raining.

Smoke cleared from the room, leaving debris and corpses lying scattered throughout the small cellar. Roy stood, taking in deep breaths and holding his shoulder where and Ishbalan had hit him. He looked around the room until his eyes found Riza. Her eyes were unfocused, and a feeble amount of blood dripped from the corner of her mouth. She was pressed against the wall, breathing heavily, blank eyes looking at the corpses around her. She slid to the ground with a moan, falling on her hands and knees, just looking around.

She screamed.

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Oh…ok. I’m done with chapter 18…

Sorry for the shortness of it, it was getting really late, and I have to get up tomorrow, so I left it as is

Its OK get some rest Nil-chan for this good of a chapter you earned it big time as I say its better to get a small portion then get nothing at all,very flawless chapter nil-chan I wonder if I could ever be this good someday know my type of luck probaly not.

Its alright Nil-chan, you need to get enough rest I can see that you are tired since you mixed up Hughes with Havoc.. So "Maes and Hughes" appeared a few times in the chapter.. Still as GREAT despite the fact that you were not in good shape..
PS : Has something bad happened to them in the fight ? I am so anxious to know..

Take some rest Nil-Chan~ Take as much as you want! We need some good chapters to fill us up, not that this one wasn't good though...

You know, it's not easy to write suspense and effectively build tension, but you sure make it look easy.
Great work again Nil-chan. Get yourself in prime condition so you can continue to pump out the goods!

It was as if death had invaded her. The smell of charred bodies and decay crept into her nostrils. The pungent stench of blood overwhelmed her. Her body shook, and she felt herself retching. She trembled, giving her self over to the darkness completely and fully. It was too much.

She had killed before. She had seen her victims fall in a graceful arc to the ground as the bullet from her rifle found it’s mark. She had seen the bodes convulse some as the agony of death crowded their bodies. But she had never been this close. She had seen thousands dead, seen their sightless eyes before her, bleeding from numerous wounds, legs and arms twisted at odd angles. She hadn’t heard them scream before, though.

The haunting echo of the men’s cries inhibited her senses. She couldn’t hear anything else any more. Their desperate pleas with the universe to let them survive, to let them please just live a minute longer, were ignored by the laws of nature’s iron fist. No one would ever know. Such a simple thing was life, to be born and then to have everything you have ever worked for snatched in the blink of an eye. To be on top of everything when suddenly death extends a clawed hand to bring you back to the earth. To be caught in the torrent and then become unconscious.

She clutched at the torn and scorched fabric of her uniform, feeling the roughness beneath her fingers, desperately trying to hold on to the real world. Her eyes were open, but she couldn’t see. Only death controlled her now, death held her like a lost child, sweetly displaying his work and asking gently for her to come with him as well. She trembled in death’s grasp. No, she was afraid, she didn’t want to see his power, and she didn’t want to go back with him.

She struggled further, tasted blood in her mouth. Her throat was dry. No, she told him. The bodies of the men streamed into her line of vision. This wasn’t what she wanted to see. She cried out in terror, and pulled herself back against the wall behind her and held onto her uniform tightly. She shut her eyes, but she could still hear their screams. She covered her ears and began to cry softly.

What was all of this? Why was this so terrifying? She knew death. She knew probably better than most the horrifying fragility of life’s temporary existence. Why did she cower now after seeing her attackers consumed by the fires of hell as she stood by; a spectator to their gruesome fate.

She closed her mind. There was nothing for her. She didn’t remember where she was, she didn’t want to remember. The world around her was dark. She was alone.

She sobbed, shaking, pulling her uniform around her to protect her from the wrath of the world, the wrath of death. Nothing was real anymore.

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He reached out to her where she sat on the floor, eyes wide in terror. She didn’t seem to see him. “Riza,” he said softly, slowly extending his hand to her shoulder. She was fumbling with her uniform, clutching to the coarseness of its feel. She was just looking around, taking in the death around her. “Riza, please,” he said, gently touching her shoulder.

She cried out in terror and smacked him away. He stepped back, surprised. “Riza, it’s me,” He said quickly, trying to calm her. She didn’t hear him, only buried her head into her knees and began to sob.

He approached her tentatively, and slid to floor next to her. He set a hand on her shoulder softly. She shivered at his touch, but she didn’t recoil as she did before. “Riza…” He said again softly. “Riza, please… I’m sorry. Oh, god, I’m so sorry.”

He gently stroked her back, coaxing her into calming down. “I’m so sorry,” He said over and over. She didn’t respond for the longest time, and Roy grew more and more worried. “Please,” he begged. “Please…” Slowly he felt her loosen, the stiffness of fear washing slowly away from her. She relaxed little by little, leaning more into him until her head rested on his chest as she sobbed quietly.

“Don’t scare me like this,” He whispered into her ears. “It’s alright, I’m right here. Please don’t cry anymore.”

His voice slowly began to register in her mind. Riza shivered again as she noticed someone was holding her, not like the grip in which death had held her, but the warm embrace of a friend. She slowly quieted herself and relaxed against the one who held her, slowly returning to her senses, slowly taking the world back in.

“It’s ok, Riza. I’m here, its ok.”

Her eyes flew open as she realized what was happening. She jumped away from him instantly, landing a few feet away from him and staring at him, eyes wide. He looked at her, hand still poised in the air from where he had been softly rubbing her hair. She blushed a bright red.

“I-I’m very sorry sir!” She stuttered, struggling to regain her dignity. “Forgive me, what I did was inappropriate,” She said hastily, sitting up straight and bowing her head. He looked at her strangely. “What are you talking about? It was my fault, you didn’t… you shouldn’t have had to see that.”

She shook her head. “M-my behavior was irrational. There is no excuse for that.”

“Damn it!” He swore, moving suddenly and gripping her by the shoulders. “Why the hell are you apologizing to me? You had to see me kill these people. That is unforgivable on my part. Your reaction was normal!” She looked back at his dark eyes, noticing that they were trembling slightly. “Damn it Riza, I thought I’d killed you.” He dropped his head onto her shoulder. She inhaled quickly, unsure of how to react to what he was doing. “I thought that I had hurt you, you scared me so badly.” He whispered against her rough uniform.

“I’m very sorry, sir-”

“Don’t apologize,” he snapped. “It was my fault.”

“Sir-”

“God, do you have to call me that? I’ve known you since I was ten years old, Riza, you don’t have to call me that here. Not now. It only reminds me that I really am a dog.” He took a deep breath. “I really am a murderer.”

“No, sir, you aren’t. It was… it was to protect me. Anyone decent would have done the same thing.” Her eyes traced the room again. “Could we go upstairs, please?” She said a little quickly. His head rose from her shoulders and released her from his grip, his black eyes roaming the room now scarred with the blood of the men they’d killed.

“Yes, lets.”

He stood up and offered her his hand, and the two walked up the stone steps to the small floor level room. The rain was falling steadily outside the room, and every once in a while a slight plop was heard as a drop of water fell from a leak in the roof to a puddle on the floor. Roy walked over and stood by the doorway. He held a gloved hand in front of his face and he smiled. “These gloves would probably be useless in the rain, huh?” He asked, turning to face her as she stood behind him. She nodded. “Probably, sir.”

He chuckled. “I’d need someone at my back when that happens. Never know what could happen when I’m useless.” He glanced back at her again.

“I wouldn’t let anything happen to you, sir.”

“So you’d say by me?”

“Of course, sir.”

“Even after this godforsaken war is over?”

“Yes.”

He was silent as he turned completely around and walked over and stood in front of her. She felt her heart rate speed up as he stood directly in front of her. “Even though I’ve killed thousands of people? Even though I deserve no compassion from anyone because of the atrocities I’ve committed? Even though my hands are stained with the blood of innocents?” He asked in a whisper.

She swallowed. “Sir, I’m just as guilty as you in that respect.”

He smiled sadly. “You shouldn’t have to be here. A young woman like you, you should be back in your home town, getting ready to be married or something of the like.”

She straightened her back. “If I recall correctly, sir, I was prepared to join the military long before you.”

He sighed. “Of course. You always were the better shot, and you easily beat me in hand to hand combat then.” He moved suddenly, grabbing her wrists and pinning her against the wall behind them. “But I’ve gotten better, too.” She stood in astonishment at his sudden move, but then settled back into her self. She brought up her leg to kick him, but the stepped on here feet to keep them firmly on the ground. “And I know all of your moves, too. Besides the fact that I’m stronger than you are.”

“That’s only because you are a man, sir.”

“Then I guess I have a god-given advantage.”

“Please.” She twisted suddenly, easily breaking his grip and stepping away from him. “Although you have improved, sir.”

He smiled as he watched her. “What are we doing here, Riza?” He asked, shaking his head. She turned to him. “Sir?”

“Why didn’t we stay where we were? We would have had lives, opportunities.”

“We wouldn’t have been together, sir.”

“What?”

“Our paths would have differed. You had already gone off once, more than likely you would have left again. I would also have done something different had I not been in the military.”

“So, this is a joint path for us then?”

“You could put it that way, sir.”

“Then maybe this is fortunate.”

“Sir?”

“I can’t think of a single person I’d rather have at my side other than you.

The rain continued to pound against the roof of the house, a constant reminder of where they were. The stench of gunpowder still lingered in the room, but something prevented that from bothering the two.

The room illuminated with the flash of the lightning and a loud clap of thunder pounded in the distance. Roy thought he saw a shadow of fear cross her face, but it passed in a fleeting moment, so he was sure he imagined it. “Not afraid of the thunder anymore?” He said, only half joking.

“I do no enjoy it.” She replied simply. He nodded. “It reminds me still that I’ll have to go back once this rain stops.” She continued in a soft voice. “It reminds me that I’ll have to raise my rifle again and again and take the life of a person fighting only to defend his country. And that is what terrifies me.”

He took a few hesitant steps towards her. “Don’t,” He said, stopping arm’s length from her. “Don’t be afraid for that. It’s your job, Riza. You can’t do anything to stop it. Remember why you are doing it. You are protecting your country your people. And I need you to protect me.”

She raised her head to look at him, eyes resting on him as long as she would dare. “I won’t let you down, sir. I wouldn’t let anything happen to you. I couldn’t.” She said, eyes resting on the ground.

“I won’t let anyone touch you,” He said to her. He brought his hand to rest beneath her chin and forced her to look at him. “I swear to you, I’ll protect you through this war. I’ll make sure we survive, Riza. We’ll be fine.”

She blinked a few times, quickly batting away the few tears that had come into her eyes. Why was she crying? She took a deep breath in, trying to calm herself. He looked at her worriedly, taking another hesitant step forward. She didn’t push him back, and simply closed her eyes and allowed him to wipe away the salty tears that streaked her face, taking a jagged breath as she felt the coarseness of his glove on his face. He quickly ripped the gloves off and instead ran a finger delicately over her face. She shivered at his cool touch, breathing slightly heavier. Had he always been this close?

She felt herself sliding to the ground, him kneeling beside her, continuing to hold her head with bare hands, gently stroking the back of her neck a he looked at her, simply taking her in. He whispered her name delicately, enjoying the taste of it on his lips. Her burgundy eyes fluttered open and looked back into his obsidian ones, and felt herself lose all of her power. His eyes pierce through to her, breaking down all of the barriers she had built up inside herself.

He leaned in closer to her as she rested against the wall, resting his forehead against hers, all the while just holding her in his eyes, muttering her name once or twice. Her lips quivered and her heart beat quickly because of the proximity to him. She felt her heart break, and more tears cascaded gently down her cheeks. His eyes filled with concern for her, and he hastily wiped the tears away.

“Roy,” She whispered softly, not knowing why. Just to say his name a final time. It was all he needed. Moving in suddenly, he captured her lips with his own, arching his back to lean in close enough to her. She stiffened in surprise, but then felt herself wrapping her arms around his neck, moving his hands through his messy hair, drenched in sweat from the days excursions. He hastily took a breath and then took her mouth in his once more, rubbing his hands over her neck, holding her gently to him. She felt his tongue run over her lips, and she moaned softly, moving her hands over his back, feeling every notch in his spine. He became insistent, and she opened her mouth to let him in. He ran his tongue over the inside of her mouth, memorizing every detail, every dip and curve she had.

His hands felt beneath her collar and slowly her uniform became unbuttoned, leaving her only in her back shirt that she wore underneath. His warm hands moved down her body, running along her sides. She slipped her hands beneath his shirt, feeling the smoothness of his skin beneath her fingertips. He moaned in pleasure, and pushed her back more firmly into the wall, pressing his body against hers. His kiss moved away from her mouth and he began to kiss along her neck, trailing steadily lower. She buried her face in his hair, breathing the scent of him in, letting her tears fall steadily into him.

He kissed her roughly where her shoulder met her neck and she inhaled quickly, and pulled him in against her. He returned to her lips, delving inside of her mouth once more, but this time she fought back, driving his back into his own mouth where she quickly dominated him.

He pulled away fro a quick breath, panting now, and he looked her over, not saying anything. “Don’t stop,” She muttered, arms still wrapped around his neck, gently rubbing his shoulders. He smiled eagerly and moved in to take her in his arms once more, holding her fragile body against him. “I won’t,” he muttered into her mouth. “I wouldn’t ever leave you, I promise.”

At that moment lightning illuminated the room, catching the two off guard. A clap of thunder sounded and Riza jumped back from him, and stood up suddenly, remembering where she was. Her eyes widened at the thought of what she had just done. “I-” She began, stumbling over the words that were mangled in her thoughts. “Forgive me,” she said bowing and taking a few steps towards the door to look out in the rain.

He stood up and walked quickly over to her and stood behind her. “For what?” He asked quickly, looking over her with fear written over his expression. “I can’t do this sir,” She said looking at him. “I- it’s not allowed, we-”

He shook his head. “No, Riza, it’s no-”

“You shouldn’t call me that,” She said softly. “It should be ‘Cadet’ or even ‘Hawkeye’, but it’s improper for you to call me by such familiar terms.”

“Please, Riza, I need you.”

“I can’t risk getting you in any trouble.” She said desperately. “I couldn’t do that to you.” Tears glazed her eyes, threatening to spill over. “I wouldn’t be able to live with myself if I did something to hurt you.”

“You won’t hurt me,” He said, eyes pleading with her. The rain was slowly winding to a stop. “I know you wouldn’t. Please.”

“I can’t,” She said shaking her head. “I can’t take that risk.” She stepped out into the cool night air. “We should go,” She said to him. “The general will be waiting.” And she began to walk through the mud, back to the camp. Roy bowed his head and followed her.

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They found Havoc and Hughes just outside the town. The two of them had, like Roy and Riza, taken shelter in an old house and waited for the storm to pass. Their pursuers had abandoned them, and all they had had to do was wait in silence.

The reached the camp the next day without major incident. Roy reported the group’s findings to General Camden who congratulated him and said he would make sure the higher-ups heard of his valiancy. He was a hero.

The men of the camp eagerly offered their congratulations, saying her would be promoted in no time flat. One other alchemist even came to ask how many he’d had the pleasure of killing. Roy had not answered simply continued to eat alongside Hughes, who looked at him with concern.

“You ok?” He asked, resting a hand on his shoulder.

“How many more have I killed, Maes?” He asked in a monotone. “It’s too easy. Just a snap of my fingers and lives are ended. I don’t want this power.”

“It’s the path you’ve chosen.”

He retired to his tent early and sat for a long while just thinking. Outside the rest of the camp all continued on merrily, oblivious to the rest of reality. Rolling over in his cot, Roy Mustang cried.

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YAY! I tthink this is my favorite chapter so far. It was so much fun to write. . Hope you all enjoy it a much as I did. Yay Royai fluff!

Although there was Royai fluff, you still stuck Riza to her original personality, GREAT JOB!!!!~

Argh!! The internet connection hates me.. I'm posting for the 3rd time already, raawr~ >D

Wow.. I was stealthily absorbed into this beautiful Royai chapter, and I'm out of words to describe it.. This chapter is just so amazing and emotional.. I LOVE the fluff and didn't expect Roy and Riza to to make a scene out there, BUT I LOVED IT.. The way you brought Roy's and Riza's inner feelings in the war was really awesome, you stuck to the originals and expanded them further
THIS IS THE BEST FANFIC I'VE EVER READ!!! \(^o^)/ I swear~

PS : I read this chapter 2x already.. Actually I wanted to post my comment 5.5 hrs ago @ first, I was late for a buffet and reach home late as I could not get a cabbie.. I'm so sorry~ The 2nd time, the post got deleted as the was error in the internet connection..

I hate it when that happens!! Thats why I copy my post before I hit the button thats starting to bug I get so mad when it says the page dont work If I tell my computer I will shove my foot through the screen if it doesnt work will you then find the connection?



Teh roiai fluffness is teh best and teh sexy only took forever for him to act up on it! I love this sentence.



He chuckled. “I’d need someone at my back when that happens. Never know what could happen when I’m useless.” He glanced back at her again.

“I wouldn’t let anything happen to you, sir.”

“So you’d say by me?”

“Of course, sir.”

“Even after this godforsaken war is over?”

“Yes.”


Very good/perfect/amazing/suspenseful chapter keep up the thrilling fanfics coming!

Wow!!!

Those two have been balancing on the edge for too long. It's sooo nice that you finally had them express themselves! Great detail!! I love this chapter! A definite favorite!

The nightmare had ended, like a child waking from an uneasy dream, the world breathed again. The storm had passed, the sky was clear, and the sun shone in a non-mocking way. The camp was joyful, not with the uncertain promise of a victory, but with the full-hearted reassertion that they were free. Men moved from tent to tent, embracing one another and shouting cheers to the future. Camps were torn down, suitcases packed. The war was over. They were going home.

Riza stood in her tent, back turned to the flap. She had already sorted through the few belongings that she had brought with her to the battlefield, all lying neatly in a suitcase on the cot. She ran her hands through her hair, which had grown slightly in the time she had been here. She would have to remember to get it trimmed when they returned to the city. So much had been lost in the past months. Friends and companions lost forever, men changed in the blink of an eye.

She closed her eyes and breathed in the scent of the desert a final time before turning her back on the cot and exiting the tent. This war would stay in her mind forever. Letting her mind reminisce, she thought back to the day after she, Mustang, Havoc and Hughes had returned.

She stepped out into the crisp morning air early, unable to sleep. The thoughts of the previous night still inhibited her mind, and whenever she would close her eyes, the images of the dead mind filled her mind. She couldn’t stop it.

She ran a finger over her lips, still feeling the warmth of his kiss. She shut her eyes tight, trying to erase the feeling. She held her hands above here and stretched. She told herself over and over again that it was nothing.

“What are you doing out here so early…cadet?”

She turned as she heard footsteps behind her. His voice was slurred, and his steps trembled. “S-sir?” She asked shakily looking him over. He waved a hand. “I’m… fine. Just... had to much to drink, I think…” He slurred, tongue stumbling over normally simple words. “I thought I would need some sometime, so I packed myself a taste.”

He had obviously had more than just a taste, though. His eyes moved erratically, and he seemed to have trouble just standing up. “Sir, you aren’t fit to be up, you should go to bed.”

He waved a hand in dismissal. “Nah... I need… I need to talk with you.” She stepped back, knowing what he was going to say, but decided to stay and make sure he didn’t collapse from all the alcohol he had imbibed. He reached out and put a hand on her shoulder. “What happened to us…? I remember we were assigned a mission, but the rest…” He closed his eyes and winced from a headache. “I can’t remember much.”

She blinked, unsure of how to answer. He deserved to know what happened, she told herself. “It- sir, we made it to the village we were supposed to scout, Hughes, Havoc, you and myself. We were separated, but it was fine. You and I were together in that house, and…” She trailed off, not knowing where to go from here. “We were being chased, but everything turned out ok. We got back last night. You’re a hero.” She finished.

His eyes stared blankly past her. “Ah… I see. I think… I remember now. Yeah… is that all that happened?”

She bit her lip. “Yes sir.”

“Oh.” He said, trying to steady himself. “It was a dream then... It was such a nice one, too.” He ran his hands through his hair. “I see…”

“You really should go back to bed, sir.”

“Yeah... maybe I should. Are you sure you don’t want to join me?” He said in what his drunken mind probably thought was a seducing voice.

Riza rolled her eyes. “Consider yourself lucky you are intoxicated, sir.” She turned on her heel and returned to her tent. She heard the major do the same.

“Cadet,” A voice snapped her from her reverie. Turning around she came face to face with Maes Hughes. He had an idiotic grin on his face as he jogged up to her, and he pulled her into a friendly embrace. “We’re going home! Oh, Gracia’s going to be so happy to see me!” He cooed, nearly jumping up and down after he had released her. “I’m going to take her out to dinner the moment I shower up when we get back, then I’ll take her shopping, and then, this weekend, I’ll get a ring, and-”

“Hold it,” Another voice came from behind them. “Don’t get ahead of yourself. The more you talk about the wonderful things you’ll do when we get home, the more likely you are to cause the train to crash and kill us all.”

“Don’t be so sadistic, Roy.” Hughes said with a childish scowl on his face. Riza turned and saluted to him, and he waved his hand to put her at ease. “Anyways, Hughes, you don’t have to go rubbing it in other people’s faces that you have someone to go back to.”

“Oh come on, you’re excited to go back, I can see it in your squinty eyes,” Hughes said laughing. “Say, why don’t you meet Garcia and I at the bar? I’m sure she wouldn’t mind the company. Besides, I want her to meet Riza.”

“I thought you were inviting me.” Roy said, feigning hurt. Hughes smiled. “Oh, was I unclear? I meant for you to take her to the bar and we’ll have a double date!” He said, smiling like a child. Riza felt herself begin to blush, but before she could say anything to contradict Hughes’ absurd proposition, Roy spoke. “Captain, I am disappointed in you. You know fraternization is firmly discouraged within military ranks.” He said with all possible seriousness.

“And, pardon my direct speaking Captain, I have no desire to sit and baby-sit two full grown men while they get drunk at a bar.” Riza put in.

Hughes looked at her, hurt displayed on his face. “But, Gracia would be there…”

“Sorry, sir. I have plans for tonight anyways.”

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The train ride back was oddly comforting. It was slow and monotonous; the rhythmic clicking of the ties against the wheels of the train car creating a lulling motion that soon had most riders falling asleep. Hughes and Havoc, who she was sitting across from were asleep on each other, drool staining each other’s uniforms. Riza, being engrossed in staring out the window, hardly noticed the amusing spectacle, but Roy, who sat next to her, would look up from the book he was reading every few moments and snicker. Once he tried to reach for the camera that Hughes had hanging to of one hand that he had attacked them with as they boarded the train, but as soon as he began to slide it out from in between the sleeping man’s fingers, Hughes had begun to whimper, and the other members of the car turned to look at them skeptically, and so Roy had given up the effort.

The countryside was flying by in a whirl of earthy colors. Reflections of small towns passed before Riza’s eyes and were gone in an instant. A lonely tree then seldom broke the grasses of the open country, and Riza felt her lashes growing heavy. They neared another small town, and just before exiting and moving along, Riza noticed three children, all with blonde hair, sitting on a hillside pointing at the train as it went by. The two boys were waving at the passengers of the train, but the girl had her head on her knees and she didn’t seem to be as into the playful salutations the boys were doing. As they passed, Riza raised one hand to wave back, not knowing why. The two boys must have noticed because they stopped waving and gave each other a high-five. Riza tilted her head to look out the window to watch the children a bit longer. The girl never changed.

“Something wrong, cadet?”

She turned her head back to Roy who was looking her over with an amused expression. “No sir.” She replied simply, closing her eyes and resting her head against the back of the seat. The girl’s sad face stayed in her memory.

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She stepped up onto the porch and knocked on the large oak door before her. She had arrived back in central a few hours ago, and after checking into a dorm and showering up, she had left the temporary house and headed over to an address scribbled on a piece of note paper.

After standing in silence for a few minutes, the door opened, revealing an old bespectacled man standing in the doorway. He blinked as he looked her over. “Riza?” He asked uncertainly. “My god, you’ve grown!” He said smiling, and pulling her into a warm embrace. “My goodness, what a fine young woman you are! Look at you! Oh, thank god you’re safe, when I’d heard where they’d shipped you off to, I worried sick. Oh, forgive me, come in, come in!”

Riza stepped away from her grandfather and stepped into the warm light of the house. “It’s good to see you again, ji-chan.”

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Roy looked over the empty room. It was dusty, yes, but there was plenty of room. A single bed stood in the corner that would be enough. He walked into the adjoining room and began to undress; throwing his dirty clothes into a pile next to the old pine armoire that was shoved against the wall. Wearily, he walked to the refrigerator and pulled out a few large bottles and a shot glass before returning to the bedroom.

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We are please to bestow on Roy Mustang the rank of Lieutenant Colonel for outstanding services to the war effort. We also grant additional research funds for the research expected to be conducted by all Nationally Certified Alchemists.

Roy read the paper over in his hands. For outstanding service in the war effort.[i] He scowled. So he’d killed more than most. He glanced down the long line of soldiers who had also received promotions for the war. They were all being honored here today in front of all of Central. Hughes had been promoted to 1st lieutenant, while Riza had climbed ranks as well and was now a second lieutenant.

The speeches wore on; the Fuhrer himself had made an appearance, speaking briefly on the outcomes and successes of the campaign. Roy drove all noise from the air and closed in on himself while waiting for it to end. He always hated these sort of things.

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Fingering the keys to his new office, Roy strode down the hall of the white military building. Pushing the keys carefully into the lock, he slid the door open slowly. The room was small, his larger desk against the window in the back, a smaller desk in the corner for his aide. He smiled to himself. He was important enough to have an aide. He grinned and walked over to the larger desk meant for himself. His heart dropped when he saw a paper sitting on the desk. He groaned inwardly. It was to early for paperwork… It was probably some paper of evaluation for happenings of the war. Oh well, might as well get it over with.

He fingered the paper before beginning to read it. His expression changed from scorn to a softer look and he almost smiled when he reached the end. A personal letter, not a piece of dreaded paperwork.

Lieutenant Colonel; After speaking with the higher-ups in the decision of your subordinate, I have managed to arrange for Second Lieutenant Hawkeye to serve directly under you as your aide as you have requested. I hope the arrangements work out, and I do encourage to you to work hard in your new position. The best of luck,

Signed, General Grumman

P.S. If it’s not too much trouble, I’d like to ask you to marry my granddaughter. She’s a fine woman you know, and I want great-grandchildren as well.

His eyebrows rose as he read the post-script. He sounded exactly like the old man he had known all those years ago. He was about to set the letter down, when he noticed the enormous pile of paperwork that had somehow been hidden under it. Jumping back in surprise, he resisted the urge to pull out his gloves and destroy the whole thing. He was inches from snapping when the door slid open and Riza strode in.

Roy froze in the position he was in, eyeing her nervously. She sighed. “I suggest you don’t do that, Lieutenant Colonel, as I may be forced to make you clean it up as well as get copies.” Roy dropped his hand and smiled at her. “So, you work for me?” He said stuffing the letter into his pocket.

“I received the letter this morning saying I would serve directly under you.”

“Ah, well, why don’t you get to work then, Lieutenant.” He grinned.

She nodded and sat at her desk. He looked at her for a minute as she checked the drawers and began filling out some of her own (notably smaller) pile of paperwork that sat on her desk. His mind began to wander to an old dream and found himself unable to look away. She raised her eyebrows. “Sir?” She asked.

“Oh!” He said, startled. “Hmm?”

“You should be working on that unless you plan no staying late.”

“Right,” he said quickly, sitting down at his desk. He glanced over the first document and sighed. This was going to be a long day. [i]Oh well, a voice said in his head. At least she doesn’t have her slingshot anymore.

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Chapter 20… oh, its so sad! Next chapter is the last one! –cries- at least there is still the epilogue….-cries- im going to miss this so much! Oh well... When I’m done I’m going to start on a Royai 100 drabbles. –grins evilly- going to be fun…

The last chapter?! NO!!! I'm not ready for the story to be over I'll protest till I turn blue! *Sigh* Oh fine a good things must come to an end but you wont believe how many people I'll tell about this one its too good to never be seen again its another good chapter (*Inner fangirl* I'm not ready for the Ending dammit!! I want her to keep writing more!!*) You be quiet! ahem this was funny I could have seen Mustang's face when this sentence came up.



P.S. If it’s not too much trouble, I’d like to ask you to marry my granddaughter. She’s a fine woman you know, and I want great-grandchildren as well.

THe post-script was just hilarious! I ended up on the floor after I read that line!

LAST CHAPTER!! NOOOOOO!!! But there can be a sequel to it... Can't there????

This chapter really made my day Nil-chan!! I LOVE what's written at the post-script!! I can't help it, I just cracked-up~ also wishing that it would happen in the real FMA =p curse BONES for disliking Riza <-- Bones does don't she?

*gasps, and sobs* L-Last chapter so soon? I'm really gonna miss your fic.. Anyway, I really wanna read your next fic after you're done with this one, 100 Royai Drabbles? XP

Riza sighed as she stared out the window. Today had been stressful, but overall the whirlwind of events in the past ear had died down. Amestris was as peaceful as a nation recovering from a near apocalypse could be. Repairs were going on all over the country, and lately there had been much work for all military personal. She, the colonel and the rest of the subordinates were pinballed around the country, supervising reconstruction and signing wavers and releases. They had only recently returned to central, and were once again bogged down with massive amounts of paper work so that for once Colonel Mustang was not the only one staying late.

She turned as a sigh made it’s way across the room, and she looked over at Havoc who was sitting in his wheelchair at his desk. He had recovered significantly after the encounter with Lust, and although he still did not have very good control over the lower half of his body, the doctors did say that he might be able to walk again with sufficient aid. Still, he had planned on staying inactive, but Mustang and Breda had convinced him to return to the office to help with the paperwork.

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She glanced over as the Sergeant Major ran over to her, clearly out of breath. “First Lieutenant Hawkeye!” He called, stopping short and saluting. She turned her head to him, not moving from her position. “What’s happened, Sergeant Major?”

Fury spoke quickly. “I heard that you’d be here, First Lieutenant… But what’s happened to yourself?”

“The colonel has been inside the headquarters last night and won’t come out.”

“Eeeh?” Fury exclaimed, becoming nervous as he often did. “He didn’t dispatch people to spread rumors?”

“There are none.”

He looked at her, fear written clearly across his young face. “…First Lieutenant. The people from the personnel department of affairs came to the barracks this morning. I’ve…” His voice broke off for a moment before continuing. He swallowed. “I’ve been ordered to serve at Southern Headquarters.”

“Her head snapped up in surprise, her normally cold demeanor replaced by an astonished one. “What did you say?”

“It’s not just me,” He continued. “Second Lieutenant Breda is going to Western Headquarters. And it seems that Warrant Officer Falman will be posted at Northern Headquarters.”

She could do nothing but stare in astonishment. They were being torn away from one another. The only group of people they could trust… Fury spoke up again. “Has anyone come to talk to you, First Lieutenant?” He asked anxiously.

“I still haven’t heard anything…” She said. As the words left her mouth, she and Fury looked over to see pair of men approaching. They stopped directly in front of the two. “You’re First Lieutenant Hawkeye?” He asked pleasantly.

“Yes.” She replied, a bit quickly.

“I’m Yankolev from the Personnel Affairs Department.” She and Fury saluted, both fearing the worst. The second man spoke up. He glared at her with contempt and handed her an envelope. “I am the Fuhrer’s personal assistant, Storch. Take this.” He said, shoving it into her hands.

“It’s a reassignment order?” She said softly, daring to hope that it wasn’t.

“That’s right,”

She looked at the envelope, nervous to see the contents, but eventually opening it slowly. “I will see it,” She said. Fury watched her nervously as she pulled the letter from its package. She read it over slowly, eyes widening. She read it again to make sure she had read it correctly. “You cannot refuse.” Storch said, looking annoyed.

“Where have you been thrown, First Lieutenant?” Fury asked nervously.

She paused. “’Starting tomorrow, First Lieutenant Riza Hawkeye will be stationed at Central Headquarters…’” She saw Fury’s face light up with relief. “As a personal assistant to the Fuhrer.”

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It was hard to believe that it was actually over. All of them had been reunited and served under him once more, but heavy prices had been paid and scars were still healing. Pain still was fresh in her mind from all that they had gone through.

The door swung open into the office and Roy entered, followed closely by Breda who walked past him and sat down across from havoc and picked up his paperwork. Roy stood in the doorway, hand still on the doorknob. “First Lieutenant,” He said. She turned and saluted him. “With me,” He said, and turned and walked out the door.

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What was even harder to believe was that it had all begun with two children. The Elric brothers, to be precise. It was when she had met them that mysteries began to become unraveled and horrors exposed.

She had still been a Second Lieutenant then, the only one stationed under Mustang, only two years after the ending of the war. He’d received information of the two brothers from the country town of Rizenbool wanting to become state alchemists. It had been a shock to them both when they discovered that the two were children. Of course, she had always been better at hiding her emotions, so she had left it to the colonel to sort out his surprise with the driver of the wagon that they were riding in to get to the Elric’s house.

It was when they had come to the house though, that had shocked them the most. The entire floor was bathed in blood. He had recoiled, realizing quickly all that this meant. Some horrible transmutation had gone on in there.

He had called to the driver and insisted to know where the Elrics where, and had lost no time storming off to the Rockbell house to find out what the hell had happened there. He’d been rude of course, but she had come to expect that from him when events like this took place.

Ed’s face had torn her when she first saw him. He looked like he was a dead, eyes blank, and a vacant expression covering his entire face. He was sitting in the wheelchair behind a large suit of armor, which she had later realized was his brother.

She’d gone outside of the room to sit and wait patiently while Roy had talked to the old woman. She’d been sitting quietly, awaiting the verdict when the granddaughter of the came through the door carrying a tray. She’d offered Riza a cup of warm tea before sitting down beside her. She saw so much of herself in that girl; the pain of loosing parents to war, the fear of losing close friends. She’d told the girl she didn’t enjoy or like the military either, which had led the girl to ask why she was in the military anyways. She still remembered her answer, she reminded herself of it still when she had doubts.

“There is someone I need to protect. It was not because I was forced by anyone, but it was my own free will. It is my own choice to pull the trigger for the person I must protect. Until the day that person accomplishes his goal… I will pull this trigger without doubt.”

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He glanced at her from the corner of his eyes as he walked down the hall. “How long has it been, Lieutenant?” He asked casually.

“Excuse me?” She said. It wasn’t often that he would ask her something in casual conversation, unless he was trying to get out of paperwork.

“You’ve been with me longer than any of my other subordinates, correct?”

“Yes, sir, I was the first to be assigned under your command.” She answered in a monotone. “May I ask why you are questioning?”

He shrugged. “No reason, really. I was just thinking that we’ve been through a lot.”

“Yes.”

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Hughes was dead.

Found dead in a phone booth, dead from a gunshot wound. His eyes lost some of his spark that day.

She hadn’t known Hughes as well as he did, but she still considered him a very close friend that she deeply admired. True, he’d had his quirks, but so did others. She knew him as a deeply loyal and committed friend, someone she knew she could lean on if she should even need it.

And now he was gone. The funeral was one of the most heart wrenching experiences she had ever undergone. She’d nearly broken down herself when Elycia had cried out for them not to bury her father. Major Armstrong was also in tears, and she had to bite her lip to stop herself from doing the same.

He’d stayed by the grave even after the ceremony, so she had approached him, wary of how he may react.

“It’s gotten cold. Aren’t you going to go back?”

‘Yeah, I will.” He paused, eyes scanning the grave. “Alchemists are horrible people, First Lieutenant. Right now…part of me is desperately trying to develop a theory on human transmutation. Now I feel I understand what those boys felt when they tried to transmute their mother.”

She’d looked at him, concerned. “Are you alright?”

“I’m fine,” He’d said quickly, pulling on his hat. “Oh no… it’s raining.”

But it wasn’t… the air was cool, but there were no clouds visible. “It isn’t raining,” She began, but he spoke again, sadness evident in his voice. “No. It’s raining.” She saw a single tear on his cheek. “…Yes it is. She said softly. “Let’s go back, it’s getting cold.”

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“It’s strange to recall it all, everything we’ve done.” He said, pace slowing now. “It’s painful. But it’s over.”

She nodded. “If that’s what you want to talk about, sir, I-”

“No, that’s not it.” He didn’t say anything else, so she just followed him down the hall.

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They’d been transferred to Central again a few years after Edward had become a state alchemist. He’d asked her to follow him, and of course she’s accepted. Her reasoning was something unspoken between them.

It’d been on her first night off there that the first major clue that led them along the painful path to the final mystery had presented itself in the form of a soul inhibited suit of armor that had once been Barry the Chopper.

She’d gone out shopping to fill her empty apartment for a while so she wouldn’t be hungry. Her hair was down and she was in casual clothes, and with the bags of groceries in her hands, few would have guessed she was a militant.

He’d been waiting in a dark alley, just like any strange man would have, trying to pick up an unsuspecting woman. She really had no desire to kill anyone that night, so she had ignored him at first, dismissing his offer to escort her. She hadn’t really expected him to leap out at her though. But he did, so she had reached into her bag of groceries and pulled out her handgun and shot him.

He was surprised, and she couldn’t blame him. Most women walking along the street didn’t carry handguns in their bags. He’d tried to scare her by showing her that he had no body, but, although she had been startled that some one other than Alphonse was in a position like that she shot him again anyways. He’d fallen over stunned, demanding why she wasn’t scared. She’d stated simply she knew someone like him, and he’d let out that he had met Alphonse before. It would have all been so easy if he’d left it at that, allowing her to call the colonel and pick the two of them up, but of course, he had to make things difficult by claiming to have fallen in love with her.

So of course, he’d been all over her for the rest of the evening, begging her to cut up random strangers on the street.

And then he’d come, and she didn’t think she’d ever seen him so pissed off before.

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“So you’ve stayed with me the whole time,” He continued, sometimes glancing over his shoulder to look at her as they continued to walk around the building through the halls, every once in a while acknowledging a comrade or two who happened to be passing by.

“Yes.”

“I’ve been wondering why.”

“That’s not really something I want to discuss,” She said. “Now isn’t really the right time, sir. It’s inappropriate.” In truth, she had never really told him all the reasons that she followed him without fear or doubt. Most of it was admiration, she knew he was a great man with potential, her father had been right in what he saw in him. There may have been another reason buried within her, but she didn’t want to acknowledge it yet.

“Is it so wrong for two colleagues to talk about personal matters?” He asked, a smile playing on his lips. She shook her head. “Not when it’s interfering with the work schedule. We both have a lot to do.”

“Then, I say we’ll take a break.”

“Sir, I have a lot to do, so I’ll let you-”

“I order you to take a break, First Lieutenant.”

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It had been her idea to use the codenames under the pretense of a flower shop. He’d stay in the office to keep attention from being drawn to himself and give them time to communicate. It had actually been fun, acting like one of his many girlfriends who were so completely opposite from herself. She wondered what in the world he could have possibly see in them, but those matters would have to be saved for another time.

All was going well, ‘Jacqueline’ had gotten herself into a bit of trouble, but she’d ended it with a shot to the annoying ‘customer’s hand. Everything was proceeding perfectly, until it had arrived. It seemed to appear out of nowhere, a great sac of fat that attached itself to her and asked permission to eat her. Doing that had knocked the headset away from her and she and Fury were cut off from the Colonel.

This of course, had prompted him to come and rescue them. She’d scolded him, but in reality, she was somewhat thankful he had arrived to protect her.

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“Would you come to the café down the street, Lieutenant?”

She sighed. He had forced her to take a break, and now was asking her to accompany him somewhere. This was unusual, even for him. There must be something behind it, she thought. Something could be happening again. Her heart sped up. She wanted nothing more than to prevent anything like that from happening again.

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She wanted to die. She wanted to give herself into the arms of death and leave the world. She’d failed. She couldn’t protect him… She didn’t… she hadn’t been by him. Tears threatening to overwhelm her, she had collapsed, feeling the cold cement seep into her bones. The woman was still there, still smirking and grinning after delivering the news of his death, even after being filled with innumerable amounts of lead.

She heard the sounds of something going on around her, the faint swish os steel as it was pierced. It registered in her mind that Alphonse was still there protecting her, shielding her with his body. He was telling her to run, but her mind wouldn’t respond. She’d failed, she wanted to die. She wanted those cold claws to pierce her heart and let her die beside him. She’d told Alphonse to leave, begged him to live on, but to leave but he was still there. He was telling her to get up and run, that he wasn’t going to let anything happen to her. She was still crying, she felt the hot tears stream down her face. She couldn’t move.

And then she heard him. His voice laced with pain and poison, fear, hate, but mostly determination. Her eyes opened wide and she cried out for him, calling desperately. He was alive, she hadn’t failed.

Alphonse protected her as he burned his enemy, blasting her into oblivion, watching her disintegrate. And it was over.

She’d run to him and knelt beside him, resisting the urge to hold him and comfort him, but resisted knowing he wasn’t in the condition for this. He told her he was glad she was ok, and she nearly broke down and sobbed, begging him to think about himself. Instead he’d asked for a doctor for Havoc.

--------------------------------------------------------------

“Lieutenant…”

He was looking at her from across the table, eyes trailing up and down her uniform. She realized she had been reminiscing, and snapped back to attention. “I’m sorry sir.” He sighed. “I wish you wouldn’t apologize over such small things.”

She didn’t look up and sipped her tea. “Do you remember when we first met?”

She set her mug down on the table. “Of course, Colonel.”

He grinned. “You were my rival then, weren’t you. The first day I knew you, you beat me in a slingshot contest.” She smiled faintly at the memory, recalling the look of shock on the young boy’s face as she destroyed his shot. “And you always brought me cookies,” He continued, smiling wider. She nodded. “Do you still bake, Lieutenant?”

“Every once in a while, “ She replied, picking up the hot tea again. “When I feel in the mood for cookies.”

“You haven’t brought me any,” He noticed, looking despondent. “I didn’t know you would want any,” She replied coolly. “And you never asked.”

“You always showed me up in front of your father, too.” He said changing the subject. “You were so competitive then. You don’t try to best me at everything now.”

“Because I know your limits and mine, sir. For example, I know that I could easily best you in accuracy, however, your alchemic skills far exceed anything I would be able to do. Your hand to hand combat skills are also exceptional.”

He didn’t answer, just leaned back in his chair and sighed.She remained silent, and looked back at the table. “Lieutenant, can I ask you something?” She raised her eyes to meet his gaze. “I suppose so.”

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He’d gone to the hospital of course, badly damaged and run down. She’d gone to visit him and Havoc and the first thing he’d done was scold her. She knew she deserved it, she’d lost her faith in him so easily. She bowed her head and allowed him to berate her for what she did. But then he said he would let her stay by him. She nodded. And then of course Havoc opened his big mouth to defend her, saying the Colonel was just as much of an idiot as she. His boldness had always surprised her, and she admired him for it.

She stood by and watched as the two injured men griped at each other about who was in more pain wand why neither of them could have a room to their own with a beautiful nurse. She couldn’t help but shake her head in disapproval and remind them that they were together since it was easier to guard them that way.

Alphonse and Fury had entered the room soon after and offered to take her shift, but she declined. She wouldn’t fail him again.

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“You’ve been by my side for a long time now.” She nodded. “You haven’t questioned my decisions and you follow me loyally. I never have to question whether or not you’ll be at my back because I know that you are always beside me.”

There is someone I need to protect.

“I feel I can trust you with any task I give you, and I know that you would not only complete it, but pass my expectations exponentially.” She looked him over, looking for what he could possibly be heading with this. He’d never come out so straightforward and complimented her so highly before. “I know you can protect me, and I have always wanted to thank you.”

It was not because I was forced by anyone, but it was my own free will.

“I know you will continue to follow me, I know that I don’t ever need to ask.”

It is my own choice to pull the trigger for the person I must protect.

“But, there is something I need to ask. Something I could never do unless I know that you are really willing. I know you would follow me anywhere. I know that you would stay by me until I become Fuhrer. But, I need to ask you now, if you would follow me past that.” He had moved from his chair across from her. She felt her face heat up as he knelt on the ground in front of her. “I need to ask if you would stay with me for the rest of my life.”

Until the day that person accomplishes his goal… I will pull this trigger without doubt.

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-sobs- it’s the end! Im so so so sorry its up later than promised, but was being evil. At least there is the epilogue to look forward to. Thankyou so much all my reviewers! You are all the best people of all time who are so much cooler than anyone else!

NOOOOOOOOOOO YOU CAN'T END IT LIKE THIS!!! YOU ULTRA EVIL PERSON!!!! >.<

*cries* E-End??!!! So fast!! You're so evil!

I love reading this chapter over and over again and @ least I stayed up late enough to read it before bed-time.. hehe.. now I can't sleep, just keep thinking about this chappie over and over again.. XD

I really loved how you put the flashbacks from the manga between your paragraphs. You keep your story in-line with the original one like as if this is Roy's and Riza's past.. How WONDERFUL.. I really love your story soo much!

Roy's proposing to Riza!! OMG!! *becomes hyper-active, hops around in happiness* I'm so excited.. I can't wait for the drabbles!!
Now I really can't sleep.. You're really evil, for keeping me awake @ 2.12 a.m. !!

OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
AHHHHHHHHHH! You ultra-super-mega-totally-officially-evil person! You can't end it there! No! She gave him no reply! *cries maniacally* NO~~~~~~

*regains composure*
that was so kawaii!! Fluffiness plays at the most unexpected times. That was such a unique way of proposing. AHHH~ Awwww....... kawaii, fluff....

I really liked it. Man, you better have a sequel, because I'm going to e-bomb you if you don't. meh. I really loved it. All your fans on FF.net are going to be so sad..

SEQUEL SEQUEL SEQUEL!!!!!!!!!!!!

-windxalchemist

Arggggggggggghhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I want a new ending!! I will not except this!! How can it just end like that?! Nil-chan you better have a sequel I swear!! I hate cliff hangers!!! This almost ranks up there with the fma movies ending!! You totally-evil-minded-cliff-hanging-even-though-your an-amazing-amazing-fanfiction writer! I Vote Sequel! I said I vote sequel!!!! NOW!!

(Stands up and applauds)

Nicely done. Very classy. I've always been into the romantic fluff and you did a really good job to use it without making it cheesy. Looking forward to the epilogue.

I HATE YOU YOU EVIL AMAZING FANFIC WRITER!!! And I agree with the other reviewers, I DEMAND A SEQUEL!!! But that is a really unique way of Roy proposing to Riza because in other fanfics, Roy just proposes to Riza in the kind of.... stupid traditional way that people do in real lives.

And lastly, I repeat... WE DEMAND A SEQUEL TO THIS FIC, NIL-CHAN!! NO SEQUEL, YOU GET A CYBER ATOM BOMB MAILED TO YOU!!

*fangirlish sigh*
*joins in with tyguy's applause*
*reads other coments* LOL
I love your ending! I'ts fluffy and sweet and still true to do original characters.
It made me go aaaww and sniff the whole time.

*squeels* My favorite part
I love the way you added Riza's motivation to that. It's like they (the words) were made for eachother. Great job!

You will be doing an epilogue? (just checking *is a notorious misreader*) I can't wait!

I would like to compliment you on a excellent ending to a superb story. You've kept me entertained and filled my days with Royai Goodness and I can't thank you enough for it!

Go Nil-chan! The amazing-fellow-Royai-and-really-awesome-fanfic-writer-who's-graphics-rock-hard-and-who-is-really-nice-too I know!
^^ LOL That's almost like one of your welcoming speeches!

I wonder.... Nil-chan I think you should do the sequel on Royai Day! Not that you have to but... That'll be fun reading a really good royai fic on Royai Day~

Only...the epilogue to go *twitches violently*

Oh well, at least you're writing one. It's nice to have a proper conclusion (if that insults i'm very very sorry) to these things.

And I agree - you need to make a sequel

The warm light filtered in through the curtains that had been pulled haphazardly over the window. Their thin material proved insufficient for keeping the morning light out of the room, and light seeped in through the fabric and found it’s way in and crept over the still sleeping floorboards. A light chorus of birds echoed through the room, a sweet medley of finches’ and sparrows’ songs. The light inched over the floor slowly, eventually settling on Riza’s sleeping form.

She blinked her eyes once or twice before opening them slowly, keeping them half shut to fend off the light that had invaded her vision. Nestling deeper into the pillow and sheets that covered her, she let out a contented sigh. The room was cool, and the soft sound of the birds song was lulling, and she would have been content to stay asleep, but the day demanded her participation, so she stretched slowly, attempting to coax life into her still sleeping body. She felt the strong pair of arms that had been wrapped around her waist tighten as he felt her movement, felt him stiffen as he drew in a long shuddering breath and returned to the world. He pulled her closer against him, nestling his face into her hair and breathing her in before beginning to kiss her neck softly.

She turned in his grasp so that she could face him, twisting with agility so that she lay on her side looking at him. He opened one eye, looking a little disgruntled at having her hair which acted like a shade pulled away from him, and blinked in the light. He smiled wearily and leaned in and gave her a soft and gentle kiss on the cheek before pulling away and looking at her, all the while keeping his arms wrapped around her. “G’morning,” Roy murmured. She smiled at him, and reached a hand out to brush one of his errant strands of onyx hair aside. “Good morning,” She replied softly, looking him over, trailing one hand over his chest and coming to rest on his heart. “Sleep well?” She asked. He grinned widely and moved suddenly, knocking her onto her back and pinning her arms down beside her as he moved over on top of her. “Wonderfully,” He replied, before moving on and kissing her neck. She closed her eyes and enjoyed the sensation of his lips brushing against her skin. He released her hands and she wrapped her arms around him, pulling him close. His kiss trailed lower and she moved her hands under his nightshirt and began to run her fingers over his skin. He moaned and kissed harder, forcing her to open her eyes in a small amount of surprise, and in doing so, came to see the time displayed on the alarm clock. She tried to push him off so she could stand up, but he wouldn’t move and instead began to move his kiss lower. “Stop,” She said. He grunted, and she smacked his arms lightly, pushing him off of her. She stood up from the bed, and he rolled over onto his face, burying his head in the covers. “We have to go to work,” She said a little harshly.

“Can’t we be late today?” He murmured from under the covers. “No,” She said, throwing his military shirt at him. “Come on, get up,” She said, walking briskly past the bed but stopped as he reached out and grabbed her arm. She looked down and he looked up, black eyes sparkling. He grinned seductively. “Come on, please?” He said smoothly, rubbing her arm.

“No,” She repeated more forcefully this time. Roy let go, sighed in defeat, and sat up and yawned. “I can’t believe it,” He said sulkily, ripping off his nightshirt and pulling on the white oxford that would replace it. “No other girl has ever said no to me when I asked like that.”

“Then you should have married one of those other girls,” She said while brushing her hair in front of the mirror in their room, not even looking at him. He frowned at her, standing up from the bed and walking over behind her whilst buttoning the shirt. “Don’t say that,” He said, reaching out a hand and pulling her hair behind her shoulders and running a hand through it. “You know why I married you.”

“Because I can handle a gun and look half decent in a mini-skirt?” She said jokingly, turning around and putting her hands around his shoulders while he reached down and grabbed her waist. “No!” He said smiling. “Although those were contributing factors. Especially the second one.” He said. She scoffed and tried to push him away, but he held her tight. “I married you because you’re beautiful. You’re loyal, you’re smart, you’re quick witted, you’re compassionate and understanding, and… I love that about you.”

She raised one eyebrow and looked at him skeptically. “You’re still trying to get me back in bed, aren’t you?”

“Yeah…” He admitted unhappily. Riza sighed in exasperation and pulled away from him, walking into the kitchen, putting her hair up as she left. Roy groaned in defeat and ran a hand through his hair in an attempt to make it less messy. Riza called to him from the other room. “Hurry up and get dressed, or I’ll make you leave without breakfast!” Roy sighed. It had been such a good morning, too.

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Roy moved his ebony pawn up one square. “It’s good seeing you in Central, sir.” He said smiling. The old general looked up, hand on his chin. “Oh, yes, yes…” He mumbled, mind still focused on the game. “It’s good being here. I remember when I was stationed here all those years ago.”

“I’ve heard stories,” Roy said. The general fingered the air above the piece before moving it forward two spaces. “Check.” Roy’s jaw dropped. “Already? B-but... it’s only been five turns!” He scrutinized the board for a way to get out without endangering himself further. “It is my old chessboard,” General Grumman said, fingering his beard. “I have the home field advantage.”

“Yes, of course, but you know,” Roy said slowly, retracting his king a safe distance from the offending rook. “The board has been mine for a few years now. I know it, too.” Grumman ginned, and placed his queen forward two spaces. “Not well enough. Checkmate.”

Roy stared blankly at the board, evidently confused of how this little old man could beat him so easily. Grumman laughed at his expression. “Let’s see, what is your record now? 101 losses, 16 draws and two wins. The first time you won was when I gave you this chessboard, right? Almost three years ago…”

“Yeah,” Roy answered, removing the pieces and beginning to put them away.“You’ve only beaten me once since then, and that was at your wedding reception. And that was unfair considering I had had my fair share of wine.” Grumman said, looking thoughtful. “That and I was so excited that you had finally listened to me.”

“I won’t let it go to my head, sir.” Roy said smiling. Just then, there was a commotion out side of the door. Havoc’s voice was heard speaking to someone who obviously wanted to speak to Roy.

“Well… the boss is a little busy now… but… I guess he wouldn’t mind a little intrusion.”

“WHO ARE YOU CALLING SO SMALL THAT HE COULD DATE A GRAIN OF RICE?” Grumman turned in surprise to the door, and Roy just sighed and put his head in his hands. The door flew off of its hinges and landed in the center of the room, leaving a very startled Jean Havoc standing in the door way, eyes wide in confusion and a cigarette hanging limply from his mouth, while Edward Elric stood in front of him on tiptoe, attempting to glare at him face to face, his artificial limb still thrown wide from having knocked the door down.

Roy sighed and stood up. “Your going to fix that, Fullmetal, and I don’t care if you can’t reach the top hinges.” Ed’s glare turned away from Havoc and he now faced Roy with flat out rage. “WHO DID YOU CALL SO SHORT-” He stopped, realizing a stunned general was right in front of him. “Oh… sorry, about that, General,” He mumbled, quickly putting a hand behind his head. The general raised his hands and waved it off. “Not at all, I admire your enthusiasm, son. You make up for your small size with great spunk, I admire it.”

Havoc backed out of the office, he new what was coming next. Ed boiled over. General or no, this man was getting what was coming to him. “WHO DID YOU SAY WAS SO SHORT THAT HIS OVER INFLATED EGO IS WAY TALLER THAN HIM AND YOU WANT TO SQUISH HIM LIKE A BUG?” Grumman sweat dropped. “I didn’t say that much...”

Roy sighed. No matter how different things were now, some things would never change.

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“Are you serious?” He asked. They were home now, standing in their small room in front of the window. Riza had removed her hair clip, but otherwise were both still in full uniform. She bowed her head and nodded. Roy’s look of seriousness melted from his face immediately. A spark came into his eye and he smiled brightly, opening his mouth and laughing. He put both of his hands on her shoulders, making her look at him and she smiled. He laughed louder, stooping down and lifting her into his arms and holding her bridal style. He took of, dancing around the room with her in his arms, his whole body filled with enthusiasm. He held her body close to him as he paraded around the room and she put her arms around his neck to steady herself. He stopped suddenly in the middle of the room, still carrying her like he had the day they were married, and raised his head to the ceiling. “Did you hear that, Maes?” He yelled at the ceiling. Riza raised her eyes to look at him as he shouted into the sky. “Did you hear what she just told me? Damn it, Hughes, I know you heard her! And I’m going to tell you now; my kid’s going to be cuter than Elycia!” Up in heaven, Hughes gasped at his friend’s impertinence.

Roy looked back around the room, breathless from shouting, before turning his attention back to the woman in his arms. He kissed her forehead as he walked over to the bed and set her down. He climbed over and positioned himself on top of her, and she reached up and wrapped her arms around his shoulders. He smiled at her, hands working to remove the military overcoat she was still wearing so she was left in her black shirt that she always wore. He moved his lands beneath it and began to caress her stomach. She smiled at his affections as he just sat there on top of her. “You have any names?” He asked, not raising his eyes to meet her gaze. “Names?” She asked. “Roy, you have nine months, you want to think about names now?”

“Yeah,” He said softly, looking to meet her eyes. “Why not?” She shook her head. “No reason. Did you have something in mind?”

“If it’s a boy, can we name him Maes?” She raised an eyebrow at him. “You just finish shouting at Maes that your child is going to be cuter than his, and now you want to name your son after him?” Roy shrugged. “Maes needs some consolation. I mean... he couldn’t be the best man at the wedding…” He trailed off and Riza moved one finger to cover his lips. She sat up and kissed him lightly, just a comforting touch. He closed his eyes and kissed her back, moving one hand behind her neck to support her. Riza smiled, pulling away and laying her head back on the bed. “That’s fine.”

He smirked, bent down and began to kiss her neck. “Glad you agree,” He said softly. She tilted her head upward and sighed happily. “But I get to chose if it’s a girl,” She said. He rolled over onto his side next to her and pulled her into a hug next to him. “Just so long as you don’t name her something stupid like you did with the puppy.”

She smacked him lightly. “Don’t, insult Hayate. He’s probably listening you know.” He grinned again, and buried his face into her shoulder. “You know it’s only because I love you,” He said, voice muffled by her shirt. She stroked his hair. “I know.”

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-sobs- Its actually over! For real this time… -sigh- I hope you liked my cracked up fluffiness in there. I hope the characters didn’t seem too ooc, I always worry about that when I write fluff for some reason…. I hope thtis ending assuaged some of you people who wanted to kill me... don't hate me, please. (no cyber atom bombs... i hope this works, please please tell me it works. I don't want you to hate me... Anyways, thankyou all of you who have been my good and faithful reviewers, i love you all!! I may or may not be doing a sequel/companion, (ive had lots of requests for that,) but i will be doing a Royai 100 Theme story which will be up on Royai Day.

AHHH!!!!!
Mini-me Maes are going to be walking around!!!
NEVER EVER GIVE HIM A CAMERA.
assuming that it's a boy...

Well, yes. That ended up with them together. Yay~~~~

Good job. Can't wait for your royAi hundred themes!!!

bravo!

*encore*

-windxalchemist-

I'm so glad to log-in today.. and read this!!! *gasp!*
You've left me speechless again for a chapter full of such sweet Royai fluffs!! (sweeter than any cotton candies )

R-Really over this time?! Aawww~ I wished you would go on writing about their baby..

T_T It can't be the end........ I demand a sequel to this!!

See? Now thats an ending! I will no longer protest my lungs out I offically have a new favorite fanfic author and I cannot wait to see what else she can cook up for more stories. Excellent job Nil-chan *Applaudes*

Ok, I've lost interest in screaming at you for a sequel... Looking forward to your future fics and graphics!

I was just randomly browsing through the forum for some RoyAi infos, when I found this fic! I don't know if I come too late- but this is soooooo awesome!

You're really a brilliant author, ya know ^^ You have a good writing style, and very beautiful storyline. I felt like reading the *real* FMA flashback chapters (?) Every part contributes very important aspects to the whole plot. Ahh- and it's just right for me. Not too angsty, not too fluffy too. They were successfully depicted; the characters don't go OCC, which most long-stories authors failed to achieve.

I like how you write the childhood of Roy and Riza. It's kinda cute! Just reading the things they went through together, it actually fits up with the whole plotline of Arakawa-sensei's FMA. WAHHH! LOVE THIS SO MUCH!

Did I say too much? Anyway, this is really beautifully written and probably one of my few best RoyAi fics that I've ever read. Excellent job and can't wait more RoyAi from you!