![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
Entry tags:
Beginnings of a long FMA gen-fic
Okay, so this is the roughest rough draft I've done in a very long while, and it really shouldn't be posted here without at least some semblence of proofreading, but I haven't posted anything here in a while (so I feel vaguely guilty) and the flist on my other journal seems pretty busy right now so people haven't had time to beta stuff for me. ^^;;
I, uh, don't have any idea for a title right now, so I'll leave that up later. ^^;; It's confusing, needs a lot of work, and will be changed around a lot after it's beta'd by someone, but it's posted here 'cause I'm so so so sorry for not being here. T_T
FMA fic (movie comes out in 5 days!!), currently completely gen, although Elric-centric. AU after episode 42, before Al's stupid moments. :D Um, um... soooo, around 5,000 words of tripe right now. ^^;; Enjoy.
It was only after the echoes of the boots marching down the hall faded did Edward indulge himself in a growl and a quick swat of the mattress below him, feeling the knuckles on his right hand smart and ache from the abuse. It was dark where they were, but Ed could see Alphonse’s grey-green eyes zero in on him even through the dim lighting that they were given.
“What happened, brother?”
What do you think happened? he wanted to snap back at him younger brother, but he refrained from doing so, keeping his jaw tightly shut to hold back on the cursing and the yelling that he wanted to do, knowing that Al didn’t deserve that kind of treatment. It certainly wasn’t like this was Al’s fault… it never seemed to be. It was always Ed’s own stupidity that landed them in situations like that, Al dragged along for the ride…
Ed ran his tongue over the roof of his mouth, wondering if his sore throat would be up to the process of speaking. Or if he could even speak at all. He wasn’t sure that he caught much of the deal he had made with the Gate, but he knew they had taken something in exchange… and since nothing appeared to be missing…
“Brother.”
It was Al’s worried tone and the tugging on his arm that convinced Ed to try anyway, prompted by how his brother was clinging to him on the small cot they were sitting on, the only source of illumination intersected by the thick bars of steel that were between them and the military.
Of course, not that those bars would be able to stop them, given that they were alchemists…
“What do you remember?” Ed asked Alphonse, his voice thick and young, hoarse in a way that sounded like he was very sick and much younger than he remembered his own voice sounding. The combination made him wince, knowing that it was just the kind of voice that would bring motherly concern from strangers, and worse, would worry Alphonse even more if the tightening on his arms was any indication.
“The Stone. The Gate. Transmuting…” Al wavered for a moment, but then his own young voice firmed and continued as he clung to his brother’s sleeves, “Everything. Unless I was dreaming, of course… but it couldn’t have been a dream. I feel too old for it to have been a dream. It’s too overwhelming. Brother? Is that… what you remember as well?”
Not wanting to use his voice again, Ed only gave a tight nod to reassure Al, lips thinning in remembrance. Everything had changed… the military had caught them too early. They never should have been there, never should have seen the transmutation array, never should have seen that creature. Somehow, everything had been changed just by that.
Was this what was supposed to happen, though? He remembered the Gate, of course. He remembered the deal. He could still feel the sliminess of shadow hands forced into his mouth, pushing against his teeth and his tongue and invading down his throat like a blast of cold water that choked him and pulled at him, holding him in place and reaching to take something to even the deal, to take and give something in return.
He remembered the cold hands in his mouth, his own hands only sliding through the shadow forms has he tried to get it away, as he tried desperately to get it out, to breathe. The sound of thousands of children laughing at him, at his futile struggles and how his eyes watered involuntarily from the lack of oxygen and the struggle. The brightness outside the Gate, and the contrasting darkness inside with those eyes staring at him; greedy, malicious eyes that stared unblinkingly at him as he fell to his knees, hands to his throat, not knowing how to get those shadows out, not knowing if he was ever going to be able to breathe again, as that cold sliminess continued to move…
“Brother.” It was Al’s incessant whisper that brought Ed’s thoughts back again, and the warm squeeze on his hands that made him realize how tense he was. “What happened? What did they take? They shouldn’t have taken anything… the Stone should have been more than equal trade already…”
Ed shook his head, forcing himself to unclench his fists as he turned and wrapped his arms around Al tightly, feeling his brother return the embrace immediately as if Alphonse had only been waiting for Ed to initiate the contact, burying his face in Al’s neck as he breathed in the scent of warm skin and chalk dust. “Even the Stone wasn’t enough for equal trade.”
“It should have been!” Al breathed forcefully into Ed’s short hair, tickling the ends on his neck. “I don’t understand… what’s happening? What did they take? Where are we? Why are we here?”
Ed swallowed the nauseating feeling back down and rubbed his tongue against the roof of his mouth again, assuring himself that the cold sliminess was gone before opening his mouth to attempt a reply, knowing that his brother deserved an explanation even if Ed wasn’t completely sure what was going on himself-
The sound of boots came down the hallway again, and both brothers turned their heads towards the cell bars, toward the feeble light without releasing each other, only adjusting their hold enough so Edward could tuck Alphonse against him, made sure to put himself between his little brother and whatever dangers could by lying outside.
But it wasn’t the faces of another nameless soldier that they saw there, but rather someone with pale skin and Xing features, dark hair framing eyes that gazed at them coldly, as if calculating their worth.
“The military does not put children in cells, no matter what crime they have committed.” Roy Mustang said coldly to the soldier that was pulling keys out from a random pocket of the blue uniform and muttered apologies as he hurried to unlock the door. Behind him were two other soldiers, one a woman with short blonde hair and fierce eyes, and a second a tall blonde man with tousled bangs.
Ed felt Al’s grip around his waist tighten in recognition, and could only thin his lips in response as he stared coolly at the entourage that came to free them. He wasn’t sure what he could expect from them… there were already so many changes from what he remembered, changes from what should have happened… would this change as well?
The first thing he remembered after the Gate was opening his eyes to the bright gold transmutation lights of an activated array. He had panicked for a moment, not knowing what he was doing or what was going on- before strong arms forcibly dragged him away, and he heard Alphonse cry out and struggle wildly as they were both dragged far away from the bright, flashing array that had yet to change colours.
The arms belonged to the blue uniforms of soldiers who were not supposed to be at their house, especially at that time. How did they know? Did they get to Winry’s to bother her as well?
“So these are the hardened criminals you brought in, Lieutenant?” Mustang was looking at the soldier who had unlocked the door. “They don’t look more than ten. Certainly not dangerous enough to be kept under military watch in prison cells.”
“They took down five soldiers sent to fetch them, sir.” The Lieutenant was explaining hastily. “And they are alchemists. I am not one to underestimate an enemy, sir.”
Ed curled his lips back in a snarl at the mousey man holding the keys. Yeah, they took down the five soldiers once they figured out what was going on. They would have safely escaped as well had it not been for reinforcements outside the door!
Dark eyes slid over them and appraised them, watching both brothers glare back defiantly. “Still, they are children. The media would have a field day should they ever find out that the military puts children into cells. I’m assured that there are still rooms in the dormitory that are unused… surely you can place guards around those rooms instead?”
“Yes, sir.” The Lieutenant sounded displeased nevertheless, but not sparing a glance at the brothers. “I’ll get right on it, sir.”
Ed watched warily as the Lieutenant saluted, then turned sharply on his heel and left, leaving them with Mustang and the two other soldiers behind him. The door was unlocked, but Edward knew that he probably wouldn’t be able to get out with Al in time before Mustang reacted.
There was only a curt nod needed before the two flanked either sides of the cell and Mustang entered, standing tall before them, making Ed feel like he was straining his neck just to look up at him.
“You must be Light Hohenheim’s children, then.” He said calmly. “I hadn’t expected the two of you to be so young.”
Ed wanted to snap back that he was sixteen, damn it, but the warning tug Alphonse gave his shirt shut him up before the words could escape. “Yeah, what of it?” He demanded instead, loosening his hold on his little brother- just enough that he would be ready to let go and do alchemy should he need to.
Mustang took a few moments to size them up, watching the brothers’ glare and Edward’s scowl of disapproval as he tensed for escape at any moment. Alphonse wasn’t much better, quieter than his brother but still with that same tenseness, the same readiness to fight.
“I see that neither of you understand the situation you’re in.” He stated. “Two children caught in the midst of illegal human transmutation- a crime punishable by death. And the creature that you created has been confiscated by the state for examination, of course.”
Ed flinched slightly at that mention, and Al tightened his jaw, not looking Mustang in the eyes anymore.
“The reports came that our soldiers caught you in the middle of the reaction. It is unfortunate that there were no alchemists in that group, or else they would have left you to your transmutation before arresting you. Who knows if you would have been successful if they left you to finish the transmutation.” Dark eyes studied them intently. “And that would be why the military is so interested in you: two children who just might be able to successfully complete human transmutation.”
It wouldn’t have worked, Ed didn’t say. The array didn’t take into account the human soul, the intricate workings of the human mind- only the biological aspects of things, and even that portion was flawed.
But he couldn’t say that now. They would ask how he knew… Why did he still continue with the process if the array was flawed and he knew it?
“But seeing that the both of you look alive and whole, and the creature found didn’t look anything human… it could be said that you were trying something else and the array was mistaken for one of human compositions.” The words were casual. Almost too casual and Ed recognized the smooth tone used for manipulation. “Otherwise you would both be taken into the care of the military, where they would either decide to execute you as an example to uphold the law, or secret you away and still no one would ever see you again.”
“And why are you here?” It was Alphonse who spoke those words, to Ed’s surprise, tone suspicious and guarded. It still sounded like Al wanted to trust Mustang, but at the same time was cautious enough now to realize by the other’s words that they would be in a large amount of trouble if something wasn’t done. Ed realized that this was the first time Al heard Mustang sound so manipulative. All the other times it had only been Ed. “Why tell us this? If those are our options, then wouldn’t it by easier if you didn’t tell us and just led us to our deaths?” Al’s eyes narrowed, making him look older and far too mature for his physical age. “Or are you here to set us a deal?”
There was a wry smile. “Perceptive. That’s good.” One hand reached out to show the engraved State Alchemist watch while the other remained passive. “I am Lieutenant Colonel Roy Mustang, and I can inform you right now that the military will not let you our of their sights now that they know who you are and what you’re capable of. I am offering you sanctuary under my care- you work for me, and I do my best to ensure that you don’t disappear.”
Edward opened his mouth to snap back a reply and a few insults, only to come up short as his throat clenched together and the cold slimy feeling came back to his mouth, making him shut his jaw tightly as if warding off long shadow hands. Al must have noticed this, since grey-green eyes flicked toward him for a moment before saying, in much politer words than how Ed would have phrased it, “Aren’t we a little young to enlist in the military?”
Good. It seemed as if Alphonse was catching onto the situation, even thought Ed still hadn’t had the chance to explain what he knew to his little brother yet. But he was playing along, almost as if he could read Ed’s thoughts on what he was supposed to say, and what he wasn’t supposed to reveal yet. It would have been a worse situation if either of them had somehow blurted out something to Mustang, something that would make the man realize that they were even more valuable than just being the sons of Hohenheim and good alchemists.
Mustang’s smile turned slightly predatory. “I’m sure that the Fuhrer would not be opposed to children under the care of the military. In fact, it would make nothing but a good story to the public- that the military takes in two children who were orphaned and a danger to themselves because of the power they possess. It’s an even better story than executing children, for that matter, as the military could help raise and reform those children into better adults.”
Ed wanted to growl, wanted to deny and rebuke that statement with the fact that people just were stupid enough to believe a lie like that, that it was so obvious and transparent- enough to be translated into a case of kidnapping rather than reforming delinquents!
But he knew that the people wouldn’t question it. That is, if the public was ever informed of their presence in the first place.
Al tugged on his shirt again, and Ed shook his head, urging the younger to stay silent for this one, to see what Mustang was willing to offer them. They might look younger, but there were still a few secrets that they could keep to themselves and the military would never have to know.
They were at a standstill for nearly a minute before the sound of boots came back again, and Mustang turned his attention from the brothers to the mousy Lieutenant who had come back with a barrel of other soldier, ready to transport Ed and Al to the dormitories rather than let them stay in the cells. The Lieutenant gave the two a dirty look before giving Mustang a salute, and stating that the Lt. Colonel should not have to concern himself with these matters any longer, seeing that everything was now taken care of.
It was Alphonse’s pleading looks that placated Ed as they were escorted by a throng of a dozen soldiers from the military cells to the dormitory, silent the entire way save for the dirty looks that several of the soldiers were giving them. Perhaps it was because those were the same soldiers that had ‘escorted’ them back from Rizenpool, and were well informed as to how the brothers would fight if necessary.
It was only when they were settled into Spartan rooms that weren’t much better from the cell they were in and the door shut firmly behind them and locked did the two settled down, Alphonse insisting on sitting with Edward on one cot rather than taking the other. Ed, on the other hand, briefly checked to see who was outside and might be listening, standing on tiptoes to look out the small window on the door which could be closed for privacy.
“Brother,” Al said quietly, urging the other boy to sit down beside him now that all interruptions were gone and they were assured that the door was thick enough that whatever conversation wouldn’t be heard outside unless they were shouting. “Are you going to tell me what’s going on?”
Ed sat gingerly at the edge of the bunk, swallowing thickly and wondering why that thick feeling in his throat wasn’t going away by now. “The Stone wasn’t enough.” He whispered, still sounding a little hoarse.
“How? Why?”
Ed shook his head. “Something about how everything was wrong. How things that weren’t supposed to happen happened, and things that were supposed to happen never taking place. I don’t understand everything, but we weren’t just trading for your body, Al. They took the Stone as a trade for everything that had gone wrong, and said it wasn’t enough.”
“I don’t understand…”
“Think about it.” Ed insisted. “Look at us! We’re so small again! And the military… Mustang didn’t even recognize us. Where did you think we were just a few days ago? We were home, Al, at our house. The transmutation light? Don’t tell me that you don’t recognize it. I’ll bet anything that if we asked for the date, it would still be 1910.”
Al was quiet for a little while, letting Ed organize his thoughts as well. They hadn’t gotten the chance to talk the past three days, being so closely monitored by the military on the train to Central. Past the reassurances that they were both alright, and that they were both whole, they hadn’t been able to say much with their ‘escorts’ always around.
“So what was the Stone traded for, then?” Al finally asked. “For us to come back here again?” Small, childish hands found their way around Ed’s, and Al continued, “Not that I mind, seeing that I still remember, and so do you… but there’s got to be more of a reason than the Stone for the Gate to transplant us here. A valid reason to change events.”
Yes, Ed mused. “Maybe that’s the one thing to change everything? If we were caught before everything went wrong…” No, that wasn’t it. The creature that was to become Sloth (not their mother) had still been there, after all. That means that something was already given to the reaction, so the military hadn’t been able to stop them before they made the mistake, after all. It was only that the Gate hadn’t taken much this time- because it had already taken the Philosopher’s Stone?
But no, that was far into the future… it was too confusing to figure out what was given and what wasn’t.
“Either way,” Ed concluded his thoughts. “We can’t let anyone know what happened. If is really is 1910, and everything’s been rewound, then we know too much about things that we aren’t supposed to know. And we currently can’t trust anyone. The Colonel was a shit-head from the start, even if he eventually got better. We can’t show anyone our alchemy, or let out that we might know what happens in the future.”
“Why not?” Al was asking, looking contemplative. “If we can tell someone about… about what will happen at Lior! We can do something about Nina! We could stop Yoki and help Youswell before they even have to suffer, we could stop Magwar…”
“And what would the cost of that be?” Ed whispered back, catching Al’s hands with his own to ensure his brother’s attention. He shook those good-intentioned thoughts away. “No one would believe us at first… and then they’d expect us to know more than we do. What about the homunculus? The Fifth Laboratory? We can’t exactly inform the military about things they already know! Especially with whom the Fuhrer is!”
Al quieted down immediately at the mention.
“If we want to help any of them… change any of those events, then we’ll do it ourselves.” Ed said. Now that he understood the situation better, it felt almost like a dream come true… a chance to save Nina. To right everything that he did wrong throughout the years, starting with the failed transmutation that now hadn’t killed his brother…
He was distracted from his thoughts as he felt Al’s touch on his face, and looked up to anxious eyes. “Your voice sounds horrible, brother. Does your throat hurt?”
Ed swallowed hard, pushing back that nauseating feeling that appeared whenever he spoke. His throat didn’t exactly hurt, per say, but it did feel very strange and thick, almost swollen.
He shook his head. “Not really. It just feels sore.” He brushed past the worry as he continued, “It’s probably just dehydration or something. Those bastards are too neglectful- I’ll demand water from them later. But currently we should figure out what happened before we’re interrupted again and can’t say anything.”
“We’re reliving the past,” Alphonse said wryly. “Or at least… the past that we were supposed to have. I don’t know why we’re here… but we’ll figure it out, right, brother?”
There was the familiar note of apprehension, and Ed grinned in response to Al’s words automatically. He was used to this. “Of course we will! It’s not as if we’re going to be making the same mistakes this time. This is our second chance, almost!”
The response he got was a tentative smile and a squeeze of his hands.
-
It was the next day before the door opened again, and Mustang appeared again, waiting patiently as Ed and Al finished up the breakfasts that the soldiers had delivered earlier, Alphonse pointedly pushing his glass of water in Ed’s direction before Ed finally rolled his eyes and appeased his younger brother by sipping slowly at the glass.
“Have you considered my offer?”
Al cast another glance in his brother’s direction, watching as Ed tightened his jaw and looked down at the remnants of his breakfast, poking harshly at the mess with his fork. They hadn’t gotten to speak very much on the matter the night before, but Ed had gotten his point across that he did not want either of them to get the state certification, despite the benefits it provided. The less connected to the military, the better. He refused to stand for the idea that either of them could ever be called out to fight wars for the Fuhrer, especially knowing now what the Fuhrer was.
He felt a little uncomfortable being to one talking, but his brother had insisted for some reason. And Ed didn’t seem keen on talking to anyone other than Alphonse right now, so Al had to do his best to figure out what his brother wanted just by body language alone. It wasn’t too hard, considering how well he knew Ed, but it was still frustrating since he was used to his older brother verbally expressing everything he felt.
“Would working for you mean that we’re in the military?” Al asked, his voice quiet but growing bolder with each word as he felt his brother’s eyes on him. “You didn’t elaborate much on your offer yesterday.”
“I would like for the both of you to attempt the state certification.” Mustang said easily. “Since I believe that you should be able to pass without much difficulty, considering the transmutation you were caught doing.”
Ed shook his head violently, and Al had to agree. “We can’t be State Alchemists. We’re… not that good. I’m good at research, and my brother is good at practical applications, but not good enough for certification without each other.”
If the Lieutenant Colonel had caught onto that little lie, he didn’t acknowledge it. “Then you’ll become wards of the State. The military could send you to special schools to teach you the alchemy needed for qualification…”
Wasn’t there any other option? Alphonse turned his attention to his brother, trying to get what Ed would say in this situation, and asked, “But you need us to work for you, right? Recognized by the State?” Catching the flicker in bright amber eyes, Al nodded and turned towards the Lieutenant Colonel once more. “Wouldn’t it be easier to claim that you’re training us yourself? You are the Flame Alchemist, after all--”
It took a moment before Al realized his mistake- that was information he shouldn’t have known. Roy had introduced himself as a state alchemist, but they were both young and had never been to Central before so they really should know exactly who he was…
“I see the soldiers have commented on me, then.” Mustang mused, and Al had to bite back a sigh of relief at the dismissal. Dark eyes narrowed at him and Al froze in spot, just knowing that the older man would know something was wrong, something was off because Al was just a horrible liar, as bad as his brother was.
But this was what brother wanted. Not part of the military, but with the same ties nevertheless.
“Isn’t that what you want?” Al dared. “The military thinks that my brother and I are the makings of great alchemists. All we lack is knowledge and experience- someone to teach us. If you’re our teacher, then they can’t complain!”
Roy allowed a smirk, and Alphonse could tell that his brother was tensing beside him, and reached out to grab his brother’s arm, used to having to rein Ed in from whatever temper tantrum he was able to throw.
“If that’s so, then you’ll have to stay with me as well, and there wouldn’t be the advantage of freedom that State Alchemists have to travel and research. You’ll be under my constant supervision, and limited in whatever it is you want to do.” Roy levelled them with a stare. “And you will not be allowed by me to study more on human transmutation, especially if your intent is revival.”
Al fidgeted, looking toward his brother for confirmation. He didn’t want o agree to anything his brother didn’t want, of course, but it really seemed like the best deal that he could think of at the moment, especially with his brother’s demands that they both not be actively in the military. “Brother?”
The familiar gold eyes turned toward him, and Al waited for him to say something but was only treated to a light shrug and one of Ed’s slightly manic grins, giving Al the confirmation he needed.
It wasn’t the most perfect plan, and they might eventually end up in the military anyway, but they cross that bridge later. Right now, they had several years to plan.
“If you don't mind taking us in, then.” Al said quietly to the Lieutenant Colonel, hoping that he was making the right choice now that his brother seemed too lost in thought, and also hoping that his natural instinct to trust the man worked for him this time.
I, uh, don't have any idea for a title right now, so I'll leave that up later. ^^;; It's confusing, needs a lot of work, and will be changed around a lot after it's beta'd by someone, but it's posted here 'cause I'm so so so sorry for not being here. T_T
FMA fic (movie comes out in 5 days!!), currently completely gen, although Elric-centric. AU after episode 42, before Al's stupid moments. :D Um, um... soooo, around 5,000 words of tripe right now. ^^;; Enjoy.
It was only after the echoes of the boots marching down the hall faded did Edward indulge himself in a growl and a quick swat of the mattress below him, feeling the knuckles on his right hand smart and ache from the abuse. It was dark where they were, but Ed could see Alphonse’s grey-green eyes zero in on him even through the dim lighting that they were given.
“What happened, brother?”
What do you think happened? he wanted to snap back at him younger brother, but he refrained from doing so, keeping his jaw tightly shut to hold back on the cursing and the yelling that he wanted to do, knowing that Al didn’t deserve that kind of treatment. It certainly wasn’t like this was Al’s fault… it never seemed to be. It was always Ed’s own stupidity that landed them in situations like that, Al dragged along for the ride…
Ed ran his tongue over the roof of his mouth, wondering if his sore throat would be up to the process of speaking. Or if he could even speak at all. He wasn’t sure that he caught much of the deal he had made with the Gate, but he knew they had taken something in exchange… and since nothing appeared to be missing…
“Brother.”
It was Al’s worried tone and the tugging on his arm that convinced Ed to try anyway, prompted by how his brother was clinging to him on the small cot they were sitting on, the only source of illumination intersected by the thick bars of steel that were between them and the military.
Of course, not that those bars would be able to stop them, given that they were alchemists…
“What do you remember?” Ed asked Alphonse, his voice thick and young, hoarse in a way that sounded like he was very sick and much younger than he remembered his own voice sounding. The combination made him wince, knowing that it was just the kind of voice that would bring motherly concern from strangers, and worse, would worry Alphonse even more if the tightening on his arms was any indication.
“The Stone. The Gate. Transmuting…” Al wavered for a moment, but then his own young voice firmed and continued as he clung to his brother’s sleeves, “Everything. Unless I was dreaming, of course… but it couldn’t have been a dream. I feel too old for it to have been a dream. It’s too overwhelming. Brother? Is that… what you remember as well?”
Not wanting to use his voice again, Ed only gave a tight nod to reassure Al, lips thinning in remembrance. Everything had changed… the military had caught them too early. They never should have been there, never should have seen the transmutation array, never should have seen that creature. Somehow, everything had been changed just by that.
Was this what was supposed to happen, though? He remembered the Gate, of course. He remembered the deal. He could still feel the sliminess of shadow hands forced into his mouth, pushing against his teeth and his tongue and invading down his throat like a blast of cold water that choked him and pulled at him, holding him in place and reaching to take something to even the deal, to take and give something in return.
He remembered the cold hands in his mouth, his own hands only sliding through the shadow forms has he tried to get it away, as he tried desperately to get it out, to breathe. The sound of thousands of children laughing at him, at his futile struggles and how his eyes watered involuntarily from the lack of oxygen and the struggle. The brightness outside the Gate, and the contrasting darkness inside with those eyes staring at him; greedy, malicious eyes that stared unblinkingly at him as he fell to his knees, hands to his throat, not knowing how to get those shadows out, not knowing if he was ever going to be able to breathe again, as that cold sliminess continued to move…
“Brother.” It was Al’s incessant whisper that brought Ed’s thoughts back again, and the warm squeeze on his hands that made him realize how tense he was. “What happened? What did they take? They shouldn’t have taken anything… the Stone should have been more than equal trade already…”
Ed shook his head, forcing himself to unclench his fists as he turned and wrapped his arms around Al tightly, feeling his brother return the embrace immediately as if Alphonse had only been waiting for Ed to initiate the contact, burying his face in Al’s neck as he breathed in the scent of warm skin and chalk dust. “Even the Stone wasn’t enough for equal trade.”
“It should have been!” Al breathed forcefully into Ed’s short hair, tickling the ends on his neck. “I don’t understand… what’s happening? What did they take? Where are we? Why are we here?”
Ed swallowed the nauseating feeling back down and rubbed his tongue against the roof of his mouth again, assuring himself that the cold sliminess was gone before opening his mouth to attempt a reply, knowing that his brother deserved an explanation even if Ed wasn’t completely sure what was going on himself-
The sound of boots came down the hallway again, and both brothers turned their heads towards the cell bars, toward the feeble light without releasing each other, only adjusting their hold enough so Edward could tuck Alphonse against him, made sure to put himself between his little brother and whatever dangers could by lying outside.
But it wasn’t the faces of another nameless soldier that they saw there, but rather someone with pale skin and Xing features, dark hair framing eyes that gazed at them coldly, as if calculating their worth.
“The military does not put children in cells, no matter what crime they have committed.” Roy Mustang said coldly to the soldier that was pulling keys out from a random pocket of the blue uniform and muttered apologies as he hurried to unlock the door. Behind him were two other soldiers, one a woman with short blonde hair and fierce eyes, and a second a tall blonde man with tousled bangs.
Ed felt Al’s grip around his waist tighten in recognition, and could only thin his lips in response as he stared coolly at the entourage that came to free them. He wasn’t sure what he could expect from them… there were already so many changes from what he remembered, changes from what should have happened… would this change as well?
The first thing he remembered after the Gate was opening his eyes to the bright gold transmutation lights of an activated array. He had panicked for a moment, not knowing what he was doing or what was going on- before strong arms forcibly dragged him away, and he heard Alphonse cry out and struggle wildly as they were both dragged far away from the bright, flashing array that had yet to change colours.
The arms belonged to the blue uniforms of soldiers who were not supposed to be at their house, especially at that time. How did they know? Did they get to Winry’s to bother her as well?
“So these are the hardened criminals you brought in, Lieutenant?” Mustang was looking at the soldier who had unlocked the door. “They don’t look more than ten. Certainly not dangerous enough to be kept under military watch in prison cells.”
“They took down five soldiers sent to fetch them, sir.” The Lieutenant was explaining hastily. “And they are alchemists. I am not one to underestimate an enemy, sir.”
Ed curled his lips back in a snarl at the mousey man holding the keys. Yeah, they took down the five soldiers once they figured out what was going on. They would have safely escaped as well had it not been for reinforcements outside the door!
Dark eyes slid over them and appraised them, watching both brothers glare back defiantly. “Still, they are children. The media would have a field day should they ever find out that the military puts children into cells. I’m assured that there are still rooms in the dormitory that are unused… surely you can place guards around those rooms instead?”
“Yes, sir.” The Lieutenant sounded displeased nevertheless, but not sparing a glance at the brothers. “I’ll get right on it, sir.”
Ed watched warily as the Lieutenant saluted, then turned sharply on his heel and left, leaving them with Mustang and the two other soldiers behind him. The door was unlocked, but Edward knew that he probably wouldn’t be able to get out with Al in time before Mustang reacted.
There was only a curt nod needed before the two flanked either sides of the cell and Mustang entered, standing tall before them, making Ed feel like he was straining his neck just to look up at him.
“You must be Light Hohenheim’s children, then.” He said calmly. “I hadn’t expected the two of you to be so young.”
Ed wanted to snap back that he was sixteen, damn it, but the warning tug Alphonse gave his shirt shut him up before the words could escape. “Yeah, what of it?” He demanded instead, loosening his hold on his little brother- just enough that he would be ready to let go and do alchemy should he need to.
Mustang took a few moments to size them up, watching the brothers’ glare and Edward’s scowl of disapproval as he tensed for escape at any moment. Alphonse wasn’t much better, quieter than his brother but still with that same tenseness, the same readiness to fight.
“I see that neither of you understand the situation you’re in.” He stated. “Two children caught in the midst of illegal human transmutation- a crime punishable by death. And the creature that you created has been confiscated by the state for examination, of course.”
Ed flinched slightly at that mention, and Al tightened his jaw, not looking Mustang in the eyes anymore.
“The reports came that our soldiers caught you in the middle of the reaction. It is unfortunate that there were no alchemists in that group, or else they would have left you to your transmutation before arresting you. Who knows if you would have been successful if they left you to finish the transmutation.” Dark eyes studied them intently. “And that would be why the military is so interested in you: two children who just might be able to successfully complete human transmutation.”
It wouldn’t have worked, Ed didn’t say. The array didn’t take into account the human soul, the intricate workings of the human mind- only the biological aspects of things, and even that portion was flawed.
But he couldn’t say that now. They would ask how he knew… Why did he still continue with the process if the array was flawed and he knew it?
“But seeing that the both of you look alive and whole, and the creature found didn’t look anything human… it could be said that you were trying something else and the array was mistaken for one of human compositions.” The words were casual. Almost too casual and Ed recognized the smooth tone used for manipulation. “Otherwise you would both be taken into the care of the military, where they would either decide to execute you as an example to uphold the law, or secret you away and still no one would ever see you again.”
“And why are you here?” It was Alphonse who spoke those words, to Ed’s surprise, tone suspicious and guarded. It still sounded like Al wanted to trust Mustang, but at the same time was cautious enough now to realize by the other’s words that they would be in a large amount of trouble if something wasn’t done. Ed realized that this was the first time Al heard Mustang sound so manipulative. All the other times it had only been Ed. “Why tell us this? If those are our options, then wouldn’t it by easier if you didn’t tell us and just led us to our deaths?” Al’s eyes narrowed, making him look older and far too mature for his physical age. “Or are you here to set us a deal?”
There was a wry smile. “Perceptive. That’s good.” One hand reached out to show the engraved State Alchemist watch while the other remained passive. “I am Lieutenant Colonel Roy Mustang, and I can inform you right now that the military will not let you our of their sights now that they know who you are and what you’re capable of. I am offering you sanctuary under my care- you work for me, and I do my best to ensure that you don’t disappear.”
Edward opened his mouth to snap back a reply and a few insults, only to come up short as his throat clenched together and the cold slimy feeling came back to his mouth, making him shut his jaw tightly as if warding off long shadow hands. Al must have noticed this, since grey-green eyes flicked toward him for a moment before saying, in much politer words than how Ed would have phrased it, “Aren’t we a little young to enlist in the military?”
Good. It seemed as if Alphonse was catching onto the situation, even thought Ed still hadn’t had the chance to explain what he knew to his little brother yet. But he was playing along, almost as if he could read Ed’s thoughts on what he was supposed to say, and what he wasn’t supposed to reveal yet. It would have been a worse situation if either of them had somehow blurted out something to Mustang, something that would make the man realize that they were even more valuable than just being the sons of Hohenheim and good alchemists.
Mustang’s smile turned slightly predatory. “I’m sure that the Fuhrer would not be opposed to children under the care of the military. In fact, it would make nothing but a good story to the public- that the military takes in two children who were orphaned and a danger to themselves because of the power they possess. It’s an even better story than executing children, for that matter, as the military could help raise and reform those children into better adults.”
Ed wanted to growl, wanted to deny and rebuke that statement with the fact that people just were stupid enough to believe a lie like that, that it was so obvious and transparent- enough to be translated into a case of kidnapping rather than reforming delinquents!
But he knew that the people wouldn’t question it. That is, if the public was ever informed of their presence in the first place.
Al tugged on his shirt again, and Ed shook his head, urging the younger to stay silent for this one, to see what Mustang was willing to offer them. They might look younger, but there were still a few secrets that they could keep to themselves and the military would never have to know.
They were at a standstill for nearly a minute before the sound of boots came back again, and Mustang turned his attention from the brothers to the mousy Lieutenant who had come back with a barrel of other soldier, ready to transport Ed and Al to the dormitories rather than let them stay in the cells. The Lieutenant gave the two a dirty look before giving Mustang a salute, and stating that the Lt. Colonel should not have to concern himself with these matters any longer, seeing that everything was now taken care of.
It was Alphonse’s pleading looks that placated Ed as they were escorted by a throng of a dozen soldiers from the military cells to the dormitory, silent the entire way save for the dirty looks that several of the soldiers were giving them. Perhaps it was because those were the same soldiers that had ‘escorted’ them back from Rizenpool, and were well informed as to how the brothers would fight if necessary.
It was only when they were settled into Spartan rooms that weren’t much better from the cell they were in and the door shut firmly behind them and locked did the two settled down, Alphonse insisting on sitting with Edward on one cot rather than taking the other. Ed, on the other hand, briefly checked to see who was outside and might be listening, standing on tiptoes to look out the small window on the door which could be closed for privacy.
“Brother,” Al said quietly, urging the other boy to sit down beside him now that all interruptions were gone and they were assured that the door was thick enough that whatever conversation wouldn’t be heard outside unless they were shouting. “Are you going to tell me what’s going on?”
Ed sat gingerly at the edge of the bunk, swallowing thickly and wondering why that thick feeling in his throat wasn’t going away by now. “The Stone wasn’t enough.” He whispered, still sounding a little hoarse.
“How? Why?”
Ed shook his head. “Something about how everything was wrong. How things that weren’t supposed to happen happened, and things that were supposed to happen never taking place. I don’t understand everything, but we weren’t just trading for your body, Al. They took the Stone as a trade for everything that had gone wrong, and said it wasn’t enough.”
“I don’t understand…”
“Think about it.” Ed insisted. “Look at us! We’re so small again! And the military… Mustang didn’t even recognize us. Where did you think we were just a few days ago? We were home, Al, at our house. The transmutation light? Don’t tell me that you don’t recognize it. I’ll bet anything that if we asked for the date, it would still be 1910.”
Al was quiet for a little while, letting Ed organize his thoughts as well. They hadn’t gotten the chance to talk the past three days, being so closely monitored by the military on the train to Central. Past the reassurances that they were both alright, and that they were both whole, they hadn’t been able to say much with their ‘escorts’ always around.
“So what was the Stone traded for, then?” Al finally asked. “For us to come back here again?” Small, childish hands found their way around Ed’s, and Al continued, “Not that I mind, seeing that I still remember, and so do you… but there’s got to be more of a reason than the Stone for the Gate to transplant us here. A valid reason to change events.”
Yes, Ed mused. “Maybe that’s the one thing to change everything? If we were caught before everything went wrong…” No, that wasn’t it. The creature that was to become Sloth (not their mother) had still been there, after all. That means that something was already given to the reaction, so the military hadn’t been able to stop them before they made the mistake, after all. It was only that the Gate hadn’t taken much this time- because it had already taken the Philosopher’s Stone?
But no, that was far into the future… it was too confusing to figure out what was given and what wasn’t.
“Either way,” Ed concluded his thoughts. “We can’t let anyone know what happened. If is really is 1910, and everything’s been rewound, then we know too much about things that we aren’t supposed to know. And we currently can’t trust anyone. The Colonel was a shit-head from the start, even if he eventually got better. We can’t show anyone our alchemy, or let out that we might know what happens in the future.”
“Why not?” Al was asking, looking contemplative. “If we can tell someone about… about what will happen at Lior! We can do something about Nina! We could stop Yoki and help Youswell before they even have to suffer, we could stop Magwar…”
“And what would the cost of that be?” Ed whispered back, catching Al’s hands with his own to ensure his brother’s attention. He shook those good-intentioned thoughts away. “No one would believe us at first… and then they’d expect us to know more than we do. What about the homunculus? The Fifth Laboratory? We can’t exactly inform the military about things they already know! Especially with whom the Fuhrer is!”
Al quieted down immediately at the mention.
“If we want to help any of them… change any of those events, then we’ll do it ourselves.” Ed said. Now that he understood the situation better, it felt almost like a dream come true… a chance to save Nina. To right everything that he did wrong throughout the years, starting with the failed transmutation that now hadn’t killed his brother…
He was distracted from his thoughts as he felt Al’s touch on his face, and looked up to anxious eyes. “Your voice sounds horrible, brother. Does your throat hurt?”
Ed swallowed hard, pushing back that nauseating feeling that appeared whenever he spoke. His throat didn’t exactly hurt, per say, but it did feel very strange and thick, almost swollen.
He shook his head. “Not really. It just feels sore.” He brushed past the worry as he continued, “It’s probably just dehydration or something. Those bastards are too neglectful- I’ll demand water from them later. But currently we should figure out what happened before we’re interrupted again and can’t say anything.”
“We’re reliving the past,” Alphonse said wryly. “Or at least… the past that we were supposed to have. I don’t know why we’re here… but we’ll figure it out, right, brother?”
There was the familiar note of apprehension, and Ed grinned in response to Al’s words automatically. He was used to this. “Of course we will! It’s not as if we’re going to be making the same mistakes this time. This is our second chance, almost!”
The response he got was a tentative smile and a squeeze of his hands.
-
It was the next day before the door opened again, and Mustang appeared again, waiting patiently as Ed and Al finished up the breakfasts that the soldiers had delivered earlier, Alphonse pointedly pushing his glass of water in Ed’s direction before Ed finally rolled his eyes and appeased his younger brother by sipping slowly at the glass.
“Have you considered my offer?”
Al cast another glance in his brother’s direction, watching as Ed tightened his jaw and looked down at the remnants of his breakfast, poking harshly at the mess with his fork. They hadn’t gotten to speak very much on the matter the night before, but Ed had gotten his point across that he did not want either of them to get the state certification, despite the benefits it provided. The less connected to the military, the better. He refused to stand for the idea that either of them could ever be called out to fight wars for the Fuhrer, especially knowing now what the Fuhrer was.
He felt a little uncomfortable being to one talking, but his brother had insisted for some reason. And Ed didn’t seem keen on talking to anyone other than Alphonse right now, so Al had to do his best to figure out what his brother wanted just by body language alone. It wasn’t too hard, considering how well he knew Ed, but it was still frustrating since he was used to his older brother verbally expressing everything he felt.
“Would working for you mean that we’re in the military?” Al asked, his voice quiet but growing bolder with each word as he felt his brother’s eyes on him. “You didn’t elaborate much on your offer yesterday.”
“I would like for the both of you to attempt the state certification.” Mustang said easily. “Since I believe that you should be able to pass without much difficulty, considering the transmutation you were caught doing.”
Ed shook his head violently, and Al had to agree. “We can’t be State Alchemists. We’re… not that good. I’m good at research, and my brother is good at practical applications, but not good enough for certification without each other.”
If the Lieutenant Colonel had caught onto that little lie, he didn’t acknowledge it. “Then you’ll become wards of the State. The military could send you to special schools to teach you the alchemy needed for qualification…”
Wasn’t there any other option? Alphonse turned his attention to his brother, trying to get what Ed would say in this situation, and asked, “But you need us to work for you, right? Recognized by the State?” Catching the flicker in bright amber eyes, Al nodded and turned towards the Lieutenant Colonel once more. “Wouldn’t it be easier to claim that you’re training us yourself? You are the Flame Alchemist, after all--”
It took a moment before Al realized his mistake- that was information he shouldn’t have known. Roy had introduced himself as a state alchemist, but they were both young and had never been to Central before so they really should know exactly who he was…
“I see the soldiers have commented on me, then.” Mustang mused, and Al had to bite back a sigh of relief at the dismissal. Dark eyes narrowed at him and Al froze in spot, just knowing that the older man would know something was wrong, something was off because Al was just a horrible liar, as bad as his brother was.
But this was what brother wanted. Not part of the military, but with the same ties nevertheless.
“Isn’t that what you want?” Al dared. “The military thinks that my brother and I are the makings of great alchemists. All we lack is knowledge and experience- someone to teach us. If you’re our teacher, then they can’t complain!”
Roy allowed a smirk, and Alphonse could tell that his brother was tensing beside him, and reached out to grab his brother’s arm, used to having to rein Ed in from whatever temper tantrum he was able to throw.
“If that’s so, then you’ll have to stay with me as well, and there wouldn’t be the advantage of freedom that State Alchemists have to travel and research. You’ll be under my constant supervision, and limited in whatever it is you want to do.” Roy levelled them with a stare. “And you will not be allowed by me to study more on human transmutation, especially if your intent is revival.”
Al fidgeted, looking toward his brother for confirmation. He didn’t want o agree to anything his brother didn’t want, of course, but it really seemed like the best deal that he could think of at the moment, especially with his brother’s demands that they both not be actively in the military. “Brother?”
The familiar gold eyes turned toward him, and Al waited for him to say something but was only treated to a light shrug and one of Ed’s slightly manic grins, giving Al the confirmation he needed.
It wasn’t the most perfect plan, and they might eventually end up in the military anyway, but they cross that bridge later. Right now, they had several years to plan.
“If you don't mind taking us in, then.” Al said quietly to the Lieutenant Colonel, hoping that he was making the right choice now that his brother seemed too lost in thought, and also hoping that his natural instinct to trust the man worked for him this time.