The Unpublished Memoirs of Roy Mustang Ch. 4
Title: The Unpublished Memoirs of Roy Mustang
Rating: R eventually
Fandom: Fullmetal Alchemist
Pairings: Canon pairings, yes *those* ones, along with Roy/Ed later. This means both het and yaoi with the main characters. You have been warned.
Spoilers: The whole manga/Brotherhood.
Mustang inaugurated as fuhrer
CENTRAL -- On the grounds that have gone under restorations following the final battle of the revolution, the one-time hero of Ishbal and state alchemist Roy Mustang assumed the mantle of the fuhrership on Friday.
In a move that surprised many, the newly promoted Gen. Olivier Armstrong officially relinquished her claim on the title last week, and Mustang has appointed her to the position of Head of the Military. He assured those in attendance that he would also place someone within the Military Department to oversee the operations of the State Alchemy Program, given that Armstrong does not have experience with alchemy. Nominees have not been mentioned at this time.
On the stage with him, Mustang had several familiar faces from his staff, all of whom have been promoted in recent weeks, including Capt. Riza Hawkeye; Strongarm Alchemist Brig. Gen. Alex Armstrong, brother to Olivier Armstrong; First Lt. Heymans Breda; and Maj. Edward Elric, the Fullmetal Alchemist.
0o0o0o0
It had been a surprise when Ed showed up to the inauguration. That feeling is one of the few I remember of the day; it all went by so quickly I believe I suffered from whiplash. The moment I'd waited for to savor, and I couldn't honestly remember more than a few moments, disjointed feelings. It was full of pomp and circumstance, formalities and recitation. For all I'd worked to achieve it, really, the inauguration ceremony held very little heart.
One of the few distinct moments that sticks out in my mind is Olivier Armstrong trying, and failing miserably, to look humble as I announced she would oversee the military, allowing me to focus more on rebuilding the country and our relations with the international community. As she took the podium to address the crowd,\ I forced myself to sit with one leg crossed over the other, a hand resting over my chin and mouth in an attempt to look deep in thought and not to obviously be on the verge of laughter. I don't recall all of it, given the fact that I was trying very hard not to break into hysterics throughout, but I had a sudden "coughing fit," as she uttered the phrase, "I cannot express my incredible gratitude to the people of Amestris and our new fuhrer, Roy Mustang, for seeing in me the ability to instruct the military under his leadership," through practically gritted teeth, and then followed it with, "It is my sincerest wish that I will live up to the expectations upon me, as I know that Fuhrer Mustang will do in command of this country that finds itself at a crossroads."
I would have been touched, rather than splitting my sides if I had thought any of it was meant genuinely, but I knew for a fact that Alex Armstrong had written the speech for her and she'd barely given it second glance after he gave it to her. If she had, she wouldn't have found herself midway through an explanation of the people who inspired her to find myself and, shortly after, her brother on the list for his "stunning bravery and characteristic Armstrong strength" and found herself forced to follow through on the thought. To be honest, I was rather impressed with him for this cunning trickery on his older sister; I think he'd been spending too much time around me.
While the inauguration itself wasn't incredibly memorable, the party that followed was much more so. We had forgone the traditional ball to "save money for restorations to the city and country as a whole." In reality, it was so that I didn't take out an entire dance floor; I'd always had trouble staying within set boundaries when I danced, and that certainly wasn't going to get better when I couldn't see said boundaries or fellow dancers. Instead, we had a brief dinner with various dignitaries and friends and family came to greet me at my new home. (Though I hadn't wanted a new place to live and couldn't have navigated a full-fledged mansion, I was told it was impossible to secure my former apartment.) I was shocked to see Olivier show up, along with Alex who was sporting a swollen cheek that I knew he hadn't had during the ceremony or the dinner.
With some clever subterfuge, my staff managed to get Al to the home without the photographers noticing him and getting dozens of photographs. Though Al claimed he didn't mind it if they took pictures, he didn't need to have the whole country analyzing his current state more than they already were. Or rather, Ed didn't need it. I'd been asked a few times already by those in the military, not including those in the media, about Ed's treatment of his younger brother, if neglect was playing a part. I could only assure them that this wasn't the case, that Alphonse had used the armor to protect a weakened body, thanks to alchemy -- a feat I ensured was possible before using it as an excuse for the younger Elric's health -- and that Ed had been doing everything he could in the last few years to ensure his brother was healthy enough to do without it.
Weakened body or not, there was very little that could actually curb Al's enthusiastic nature, even at a party full of diplomats and officials.
Walking through my home, hoping to stumble upon a room and look as though I had a purpose there, since I still hadn't learned to navigate the place and no one knew just how impaired my vision still was, I felt a hand at my chest. "Careful," Ed said as his arm would not grant me egress to the rest of my hallway. "Wheelchair stunt show, apparently." I could hear some enthusiastic voices. Ed's hand dropped from my chest and I could hear the clinking of ice in a glass as he raised it to his lips and released a faint sigh as he swallowed. "Not really fair to Al, though. He hasn't had his as long as Havoc."
"True," I said. "Though Al is lighter than Jean is, so he may just surprise everyone." I stuck my hands in my pockets and pretended to look on in the direction of the clanking metal and hum of rubber wheels over wood floors. "I am curious, though, where you managed to get that drink. You're underage."
"It's a celebration," Ed said, as though that was an explanation. I lifted a single eyebrow and cocked my head in his direction to ensure he knew that I didn't consider it one. "It was offered to me and I took it. It's one drink, the only one I've had all night and I keep adding more soda to it to cut back on the taste of the alcohol. I don't know how you people drink it straight like you do."
"I prefer it on the rocks."
"Close enough." The rattle of ice in the glass came again, and the faint noise as he swallowed. "Seriously, though, no idea how you and some of the others drink it like it was water."
"See that you never learn," I said.
I could hear the hum of wheels approaching Ed and me, the speed of the approach sounded faster than what Al would be likely to achieve. "Hey, boss," Jean said as his chair stopped in front of me, "want to do me a favor of pushing me into the living room? I'm not sure how well this thing will roll over your carpet."
"Keep in mind that rug was a gift from Xing and is decades old. Do me a favor and don't run wheelies over it," I warned, though I honestly appreciated what he was doing for me. It wasn't the first time one of team had grabbed me by the sleeve or put a friendly hand on my shoulder to guide me around my new home. Jean couldn't quite offer the same, but he did it in his own way. I pushed as he guided discreetly at the wheels.
"Any chance you could help me out with General Mitchell's first lieutenant? Being fuhrer and all, you could give a few kind words for your devoted, wounded, re-instated first lieutenant?" I rolled my eyes a he tried to lay it on thick. "Perhaps maybe even mention how devastatingly handsome, I am."
"I'm not that blind," I retorted as I pushed him into the other room.
"You wound me." He tried his best to sound affronted. "Well, any chance you'd help me by playing wingman?" Havoc asked. I had to wonder how much his confidence had improved over the last few months. I can't recall for the life of me the last time he willingly asked for me to help him. He was more likely to suspect I'd take away his potential date. Likely because it was very probable I would. It was a fun game for me, though I'm sure he never saw it that way. "She seems to have a friend, and the friend isn't so bad on the eyes, but the friend outranks me. Captain, you know."
"If I were to help you out on this, I can think of another captain who might have my head," I told him as we walked into the room.
"Oh really now?" I had to stop pushing him in his chair, and I was certain that he was twisting around to look at me. "How long has this been going on?"
"Are you trying to see if you can collect on your bet?" I asked with a raised eyebrow. He tried to pretend he was innocent, but I kept my head lowered in his direction, doing my best to keep the same kind of expression I would have given him if I were able to see him.
"Who told?" he asked wryly, knowing that I wasn't buying the routine.
"Sworn to secrecy," I said, "but you might want to check and see who wins the bet." If they were smart enough, which Ed was, or conniving enough, which Ling was, one of them would have placed a bet for the day they knew Riza and I had begun our relationship.
Havoc gave what seemed to me to be a very exaggerated sigh. "I guess I'll have to ask Breda. Falman's too rigid to be a good wingman, and Fuery and Ross are sort of, well, trying things, which is making Brosh intolerable for anything, let alone being a good wingman."
"Is that very fair to Breda?" I asked. Havoc had been using the other lieutenant as his "wingman" for years, though I knew the man didn't have much interest, or any at all, in picking up the kind of leftovers that Havoc's choice in women usually left behind.
"He's a good friend, and unattached right now. He'll do it. He'll make her friend laugh and spend her time with him, even if there isn't a chance in hell of it going anywhere, and in the meantime, I can pull the lieutenant away to plan a possible date. Maybe continuing this evening elsewhere." I didn't know for sure that he'd done it, but the way he'd said it, I was sure that had been accompanied by a wiggle of his eyebrows. I shook my head and rolled my eyes.
"Hey, I'm good, Boss," Havoc said. "The carpet isn't so bad to roll over. Beside, General Mitchell is on his way over to talk to you, and I'm sure he doesn't want a lowly lieutenant listening to every word."
"Go on, abandon me for a pretty face," I said, trying to sound affronted. In reality, I was grateful that he'd both guided me into the room and told me who was approaching me.
Mitchell, apparently, wanted to discuss some ideas on the topic of the state alchemy program. I wasn't entirely sure what to make of his motives at first. Though I couldn't be sure that he was trying to convince me to give him the job, he seemed to be doing a fine job of trying to convince me not to give it to the three most likely candidates, according to public opinion. And, honestly, on the counts of both Mrs. Curtis and Ed, I had to agree; neither had the necessary experience, and both were far too unorthodox. As for Alex Armstrong, I thought he was an ideal candidate, but it seemed Gen. Mitchell had some problems with him, as well.
His voice lowered as he spoke the next words, a bit hesitant in his next statement, a fact I fully understood after he said it. "There is come concern," he said, pausing after those four words, "because of his involvement in the conflict in Ishval." I forced myself not to intake a deep, but loud breath at the mention of the place and what was done there. "People are looking for signs of change from using state alchemists as weapons, and though Maj -- I mean Lt. Col. Armstrong... These sudden promotions are going to trip me up for the next few weeks." Mitchell paused and seemed to think on his words before continuing. "Lt. Colonel Armstrong still has the past with Ishval."
"Do you have other suggestions?" I asked, wondering if now he would be making a pitch for himself to get the job.
"There are a few who I could recommend, if for no other reason than to coordinate efforts with the Lieutenant Colonel. If you are open to suggestions, I could get you a list of names I believe would be loyal to you and who have more knowledge of alchemy than I."
I nodded, understanding that keeping Mitchell here in Central might not be a bad idea. I got the impression that he would be blunt with me when I needed it and could be a good source of advice. The fact he wasn't even trying to vie for a position yet in my administration showed he was either a very honest man -- either that or he was trying to gain my confidence to earn one without asking, which only proved he had a shrewd mind, one I could put to good use.
We concluded the discussion with some niceties, and I felt a warm hand wrap around my arm, accompanied with a lilac perfume. I smiled as Mitchell excused himself for "what will obviously be more pleasant company than a general a bit past his prime."
"I thought perhaps you might need some rescuing," Riza said, and I put my hand over hers on my arm. "I know everyone has been bending your ear to get a position as high up as they can manage."
"And what are you offering for one of your own?"
"How about I keep covering your behind so that you don't die?"
"That sounds like a win/win for both of us," I told her. "I've been told I have a very nice behind." The smirk I now wore only broadened as I felt her hip bump against mine for the comment. "By the way, I might have told Havoc I couldn't be his wingman anymore."
"Darned right you can't," she said, and I could hear the smile in the light way she said it. I could only smile back at her. "I've overheard some of the dignitaries talking about leaving soon. We should probably make our way over to the door." Once again that night, another of those closest to me was willing to take over the task of being my eyes. In addition to her offer, Breda swept by once again, taking my now-empty glass from my hand so that I could shake the hands of the various officials as they left my new home. Riza did a fantastic job of politely saying the first goodbye before I chimed in with her. I did my best to make it look as though the whole scenario was perfectly natural.
Saying various farewells, I had to admit that Riza's presence was a welcome one. Having her at my side as we said repeated goodbyes and well wishes for the better part of the next hour was at least a small consolation. Olivier was among the last to leave who was not part of my team or the Elrics or Curtises. We exchanged congratulations to one another as she left with her team.
That left me with mine, and for the first time that night, I had a full-sized drink, one that hadn't been watered down to keep me alert throughout the evening. I savored the bourbon over ice as I finally stretched out on the new sofa that Riza had chosen for the parlor. It was fairly comfortable, but still needed some breaking in. She had abandoned me to pick up a few odd things that she spotted around the house. We'd yet to hire any permanent staff yet. I needed to either be more familiar with my new home or get more of my vision back before I had staff on hand all of the time.
"Did you want to cut into the cake that Gracia Hughes brought over?" Breda asked from the bar area. I told him to go ahead and made a mental note to tell Gracia that we had ended up eating the dish that night, despite the amount of food that had been provided by the catering company. It had been a kind gesture on her part.
"Save a piece for Elysia at least," I called to him.
"Already doing it, Boss," he replied back, as I felt someone sitting next to me and heard the sound of a wheelchair rolling over. I knew it wasn't Havoc because I could hear him talking to Breda, thanking his long-suffering friend for trying to help him out with the female lieutenant. Breda mentioned something about Havoc trying to at least consider his preferences before he started setting him up for failure with the friend of Havoc's target woman du jour.
I allowed my attention to focus back on the person currently sitting next to me. Ed, if I was guessing right by the knee that was pressed against mine; he had the tendency to do that when sitting close to me, though I don't think he realized it, given the lack of sensation in his automail. However, I was very aware that the limb pressing against my own was not flesh and bone. I could also gauge that the person to my side was not very tall or broad. It was odd how my ability to determine a person's identity was developing. I could sense others near me at the moment, as well, with a change in the way sound bounced around the room to get to me, and new scents, faint as they were.
"Here," Ed said, placing a box in my hand. It was a small box, but did not have the velveteen texture on the outside that would indicate it immediately as a jewelry box, though it was about the same shape. Inside, something was rattling loosely. I started to lift the lid on it, finding it came apart and had no hinge. "We thought you should have this."
I pulled the chain out of the box and let my hands trail over the rope-like metal, which wasn't overly thick, but it was thicker than the necklace of my mother's that I intended to give Riza sometime a little less hectic than that night had been. It held a figure of some sort It felt almost like textured vines intertwined, carved out of metal. It was warm in my palm as I allowed my index finger to trace over it. It felt familiar somehow.
"It's the symbol we all wear," Al's still-raspy voice said. It was still odd to hear how the high tones from the armor had changed to the voice of a growing teenager, cracking and squeaking with puberty. "We thought you deserved to have one as well. If you don't like the necklace, Brother or I could change it into something different."
"How would he know if he likes it?" Ed asked with a light teasing tone. "He can't see it."
"He will eventually," Al said with such faith in my eyesight's return that I could have kissed the boy. It was more faith than I sometimes managed in my darker times.
I wrapped my hand around the necklace. "I thought this was something that you got because you were Mrs. Curtis' student," I said, turning my head to the direction of Ed and Al's voice.
"That is part of the reason we're giving this to you," I heard the woman say.
"You're going to teach me alchemy?" I asked. I was confused, as I knew a decent amount of alchemy, not to mention had learned the hard way the lessons that Mrs. Curtis taught the Elrics on that island.
"You know enough about alchemy, and we could work on polishing it," she said. "But that isn't what I meant. I meant that I want to teach you how to fight. If you can learn how to predict your opponent's movements, listen for where they are, your eyesight, or lack thereof, won't be an impediment."
"I didn't know you wanted to beat up on a blind man so much," I said with a chuckle. I could hear her let out a faint groan and knew she was likely restraining herself from strangling me. "I am joking. I accept. But, that leaves me in your debt more than I already am. I know you operate by equivalent exchange. What do you want in return?"
"Sig and I are hoping to adopt siblings from the orphanage here in Central, but to finalize the adoption, we have to let the kids get to know us," she said. "The process, including paperwork and visitations will take several weeks, months even."
"Can you afford to leave your business for so long?" I asked. They hadn't been back since the battle, and I could only imagine they had employees they trusted as much as I did my team.
"For this, absolutely," Sig's gruff voice replied, leaving no room for argument or further questioning.
"So, you two need a place to stay that is a bit more comfortable than the military guest quarters," I said, not waiting for confirmation. Even if that wasn't what they were asking for, they would get it, gladly. "I have five guest rooms. Have your pick."
"Thank you," Sig said.
"If your wife is willing to train me and it works, it will be me thanking the two of you."
Even if I was nowhere near the Elrics' skill level, which was probable, given the 15- and 16-year age difference, it certainly couldn't hurt matters for me. It made me think back to Ed's promise for a rematch. The first time around, I'd had more experience when it came to using my alchemy in battle and quick and ever-changing strategy, but when I'd faced off against Ed, he'd bested me when it came to the actual fighting. I smirked at what it could mean if I had the combination of alchemy, strategy and fighting ability and were to face Ed once again.
As though he could read my mind, Ed chimed in, "Don't get any ideas bastard. I can still kick your ass, even after she's through with you."
"We will see, Ed."
Rating: R eventually
Fandom: Fullmetal Alchemist
Pairings: Canon pairings, yes *those* ones, along with Roy/Ed later. This means both het and yaoi with the main characters. You have been warned.
Spoilers: The whole manga/Brotherhood.
Mustang inaugurated as fuhrer
CENTRAL -- On the grounds that have gone under restorations following the final battle of the revolution, the one-time hero of Ishbal and state alchemist Roy Mustang assumed the mantle of the fuhrership on Friday.
In a move that surprised many, the newly promoted Gen. Olivier Armstrong officially relinquished her claim on the title last week, and Mustang has appointed her to the position of Head of the Military. He assured those in attendance that he would also place someone within the Military Department to oversee the operations of the State Alchemy Program, given that Armstrong does not have experience with alchemy. Nominees have not been mentioned at this time.
On the stage with him, Mustang had several familiar faces from his staff, all of whom have been promoted in recent weeks, including Capt. Riza Hawkeye; Strongarm Alchemist Brig. Gen. Alex Armstrong, brother to Olivier Armstrong; First Lt. Heymans Breda; and Maj. Edward Elric, the Fullmetal Alchemist.
0o0o0o0
It had been a surprise when Ed showed up to the inauguration. That feeling is one of the few I remember of the day; it all went by so quickly I believe I suffered from whiplash. The moment I'd waited for to savor, and I couldn't honestly remember more than a few moments, disjointed feelings. It was full of pomp and circumstance, formalities and recitation. For all I'd worked to achieve it, really, the inauguration ceremony held very little heart.
One of the few distinct moments that sticks out in my mind is Olivier Armstrong trying, and failing miserably, to look humble as I announced she would oversee the military, allowing me to focus more on rebuilding the country and our relations with the international community. As she took the podium to address the crowd,\ I forced myself to sit with one leg crossed over the other, a hand resting over my chin and mouth in an attempt to look deep in thought and not to obviously be on the verge of laughter. I don't recall all of it, given the fact that I was trying very hard not to break into hysterics throughout, but I had a sudden "coughing fit," as she uttered the phrase, "I cannot express my incredible gratitude to the people of Amestris and our new fuhrer, Roy Mustang, for seeing in me the ability to instruct the military under his leadership," through practically gritted teeth, and then followed it with, "It is my sincerest wish that I will live up to the expectations upon me, as I know that Fuhrer Mustang will do in command of this country that finds itself at a crossroads."
I would have been touched, rather than splitting my sides if I had thought any of it was meant genuinely, but I knew for a fact that Alex Armstrong had written the speech for her and she'd barely given it second glance after he gave it to her. If she had, she wouldn't have found herself midway through an explanation of the people who inspired her to find myself and, shortly after, her brother on the list for his "stunning bravery and characteristic Armstrong strength" and found herself forced to follow through on the thought. To be honest, I was rather impressed with him for this cunning trickery on his older sister; I think he'd been spending too much time around me.
While the inauguration itself wasn't incredibly memorable, the party that followed was much more so. We had forgone the traditional ball to "save money for restorations to the city and country as a whole." In reality, it was so that I didn't take out an entire dance floor; I'd always had trouble staying within set boundaries when I danced, and that certainly wasn't going to get better when I couldn't see said boundaries or fellow dancers. Instead, we had a brief dinner with various dignitaries and friends and family came to greet me at my new home. (Though I hadn't wanted a new place to live and couldn't have navigated a full-fledged mansion, I was told it was impossible to secure my former apartment.) I was shocked to see Olivier show up, along with Alex who was sporting a swollen cheek that I knew he hadn't had during the ceremony or the dinner.
With some clever subterfuge, my staff managed to get Al to the home without the photographers noticing him and getting dozens of photographs. Though Al claimed he didn't mind it if they took pictures, he didn't need to have the whole country analyzing his current state more than they already were. Or rather, Ed didn't need it. I'd been asked a few times already by those in the military, not including those in the media, about Ed's treatment of his younger brother, if neglect was playing a part. I could only assure them that this wasn't the case, that Alphonse had used the armor to protect a weakened body, thanks to alchemy -- a feat I ensured was possible before using it as an excuse for the younger Elric's health -- and that Ed had been doing everything he could in the last few years to ensure his brother was healthy enough to do without it.
Weakened body or not, there was very little that could actually curb Al's enthusiastic nature, even at a party full of diplomats and officials.
Walking through my home, hoping to stumble upon a room and look as though I had a purpose there, since I still hadn't learned to navigate the place and no one knew just how impaired my vision still was, I felt a hand at my chest. "Careful," Ed said as his arm would not grant me egress to the rest of my hallway. "Wheelchair stunt show, apparently." I could hear some enthusiastic voices. Ed's hand dropped from my chest and I could hear the clinking of ice in a glass as he raised it to his lips and released a faint sigh as he swallowed. "Not really fair to Al, though. He hasn't had his as long as Havoc."
"True," I said. "Though Al is lighter than Jean is, so he may just surprise everyone." I stuck my hands in my pockets and pretended to look on in the direction of the clanking metal and hum of rubber wheels over wood floors. "I am curious, though, where you managed to get that drink. You're underage."
"It's a celebration," Ed said, as though that was an explanation. I lifted a single eyebrow and cocked my head in his direction to ensure he knew that I didn't consider it one. "It was offered to me and I took it. It's one drink, the only one I've had all night and I keep adding more soda to it to cut back on the taste of the alcohol. I don't know how you people drink it straight like you do."
"I prefer it on the rocks."
"Close enough." The rattle of ice in the glass came again, and the faint noise as he swallowed. "Seriously, though, no idea how you and some of the others drink it like it was water."
"See that you never learn," I said.
I could hear the hum of wheels approaching Ed and me, the speed of the approach sounded faster than what Al would be likely to achieve. "Hey, boss," Jean said as his chair stopped in front of me, "want to do me a favor of pushing me into the living room? I'm not sure how well this thing will roll over your carpet."
"Keep in mind that rug was a gift from Xing and is decades old. Do me a favor and don't run wheelies over it," I warned, though I honestly appreciated what he was doing for me. It wasn't the first time one of team had grabbed me by the sleeve or put a friendly hand on my shoulder to guide me around my new home. Jean couldn't quite offer the same, but he did it in his own way. I pushed as he guided discreetly at the wheels.
"Any chance you could help me out with General Mitchell's first lieutenant? Being fuhrer and all, you could give a few kind words for your devoted, wounded, re-instated first lieutenant?" I rolled my eyes a he tried to lay it on thick. "Perhaps maybe even mention how devastatingly handsome, I am."
"I'm not that blind," I retorted as I pushed him into the other room.
"You wound me." He tried his best to sound affronted. "Well, any chance you'd help me by playing wingman?" Havoc asked. I had to wonder how much his confidence had improved over the last few months. I can't recall for the life of me the last time he willingly asked for me to help him. He was more likely to suspect I'd take away his potential date. Likely because it was very probable I would. It was a fun game for me, though I'm sure he never saw it that way. "She seems to have a friend, and the friend isn't so bad on the eyes, but the friend outranks me. Captain, you know."
"If I were to help you out on this, I can think of another captain who might have my head," I told him as we walked into the room.
"Oh really now?" I had to stop pushing him in his chair, and I was certain that he was twisting around to look at me. "How long has this been going on?"
"Are you trying to see if you can collect on your bet?" I asked with a raised eyebrow. He tried to pretend he was innocent, but I kept my head lowered in his direction, doing my best to keep the same kind of expression I would have given him if I were able to see him.
"Who told?" he asked wryly, knowing that I wasn't buying the routine.
"Sworn to secrecy," I said, "but you might want to check and see who wins the bet." If they were smart enough, which Ed was, or conniving enough, which Ling was, one of them would have placed a bet for the day they knew Riza and I had begun our relationship.
Havoc gave what seemed to me to be a very exaggerated sigh. "I guess I'll have to ask Breda. Falman's too rigid to be a good wingman, and Fuery and Ross are sort of, well, trying things, which is making Brosh intolerable for anything, let alone being a good wingman."
"Is that very fair to Breda?" I asked. Havoc had been using the other lieutenant as his "wingman" for years, though I knew the man didn't have much interest, or any at all, in picking up the kind of leftovers that Havoc's choice in women usually left behind.
"He's a good friend, and unattached right now. He'll do it. He'll make her friend laugh and spend her time with him, even if there isn't a chance in hell of it going anywhere, and in the meantime, I can pull the lieutenant away to plan a possible date. Maybe continuing this evening elsewhere." I didn't know for sure that he'd done it, but the way he'd said it, I was sure that had been accompanied by a wiggle of his eyebrows. I shook my head and rolled my eyes.
"Hey, I'm good, Boss," Havoc said. "The carpet isn't so bad to roll over. Beside, General Mitchell is on his way over to talk to you, and I'm sure he doesn't want a lowly lieutenant listening to every word."
"Go on, abandon me for a pretty face," I said, trying to sound affronted. In reality, I was grateful that he'd both guided me into the room and told me who was approaching me.
Mitchell, apparently, wanted to discuss some ideas on the topic of the state alchemy program. I wasn't entirely sure what to make of his motives at first. Though I couldn't be sure that he was trying to convince me to give him the job, he seemed to be doing a fine job of trying to convince me not to give it to the three most likely candidates, according to public opinion. And, honestly, on the counts of both Mrs. Curtis and Ed, I had to agree; neither had the necessary experience, and both were far too unorthodox. As for Alex Armstrong, I thought he was an ideal candidate, but it seemed Gen. Mitchell had some problems with him, as well.
His voice lowered as he spoke the next words, a bit hesitant in his next statement, a fact I fully understood after he said it. "There is come concern," he said, pausing after those four words, "because of his involvement in the conflict in Ishval." I forced myself not to intake a deep, but loud breath at the mention of the place and what was done there. "People are looking for signs of change from using state alchemists as weapons, and though Maj -- I mean Lt. Col. Armstrong... These sudden promotions are going to trip me up for the next few weeks." Mitchell paused and seemed to think on his words before continuing. "Lt. Colonel Armstrong still has the past with Ishval."
"Do you have other suggestions?" I asked, wondering if now he would be making a pitch for himself to get the job.
"There are a few who I could recommend, if for no other reason than to coordinate efforts with the Lieutenant Colonel. If you are open to suggestions, I could get you a list of names I believe would be loyal to you and who have more knowledge of alchemy than I."
I nodded, understanding that keeping Mitchell here in Central might not be a bad idea. I got the impression that he would be blunt with me when I needed it and could be a good source of advice. The fact he wasn't even trying to vie for a position yet in my administration showed he was either a very honest man -- either that or he was trying to gain my confidence to earn one without asking, which only proved he had a shrewd mind, one I could put to good use.
We concluded the discussion with some niceties, and I felt a warm hand wrap around my arm, accompanied with a lilac perfume. I smiled as Mitchell excused himself for "what will obviously be more pleasant company than a general a bit past his prime."
"I thought perhaps you might need some rescuing," Riza said, and I put my hand over hers on my arm. "I know everyone has been bending your ear to get a position as high up as they can manage."
"And what are you offering for one of your own?"
"How about I keep covering your behind so that you don't die?"
"That sounds like a win/win for both of us," I told her. "I've been told I have a very nice behind." The smirk I now wore only broadened as I felt her hip bump against mine for the comment. "By the way, I might have told Havoc I couldn't be his wingman anymore."
"Darned right you can't," she said, and I could hear the smile in the light way she said it. I could only smile back at her. "I've overheard some of the dignitaries talking about leaving soon. We should probably make our way over to the door." Once again that night, another of those closest to me was willing to take over the task of being my eyes. In addition to her offer, Breda swept by once again, taking my now-empty glass from my hand so that I could shake the hands of the various officials as they left my new home. Riza did a fantastic job of politely saying the first goodbye before I chimed in with her. I did my best to make it look as though the whole scenario was perfectly natural.
Saying various farewells, I had to admit that Riza's presence was a welcome one. Having her at my side as we said repeated goodbyes and well wishes for the better part of the next hour was at least a small consolation. Olivier was among the last to leave who was not part of my team or the Elrics or Curtises. We exchanged congratulations to one another as she left with her team.
That left me with mine, and for the first time that night, I had a full-sized drink, one that hadn't been watered down to keep me alert throughout the evening. I savored the bourbon over ice as I finally stretched out on the new sofa that Riza had chosen for the parlor. It was fairly comfortable, but still needed some breaking in. She had abandoned me to pick up a few odd things that she spotted around the house. We'd yet to hire any permanent staff yet. I needed to either be more familiar with my new home or get more of my vision back before I had staff on hand all of the time.
"Did you want to cut into the cake that Gracia Hughes brought over?" Breda asked from the bar area. I told him to go ahead and made a mental note to tell Gracia that we had ended up eating the dish that night, despite the amount of food that had been provided by the catering company. It had been a kind gesture on her part.
"Save a piece for Elysia at least," I called to him.
"Already doing it, Boss," he replied back, as I felt someone sitting next to me and heard the sound of a wheelchair rolling over. I knew it wasn't Havoc because I could hear him talking to Breda, thanking his long-suffering friend for trying to help him out with the female lieutenant. Breda mentioned something about Havoc trying to at least consider his preferences before he started setting him up for failure with the friend of Havoc's target woman du jour.
I allowed my attention to focus back on the person currently sitting next to me. Ed, if I was guessing right by the knee that was pressed against mine; he had the tendency to do that when sitting close to me, though I don't think he realized it, given the lack of sensation in his automail. However, I was very aware that the limb pressing against my own was not flesh and bone. I could also gauge that the person to my side was not very tall or broad. It was odd how my ability to determine a person's identity was developing. I could sense others near me at the moment, as well, with a change in the way sound bounced around the room to get to me, and new scents, faint as they were.
"Here," Ed said, placing a box in my hand. It was a small box, but did not have the velveteen texture on the outside that would indicate it immediately as a jewelry box, though it was about the same shape. Inside, something was rattling loosely. I started to lift the lid on it, finding it came apart and had no hinge. "We thought you should have this."
I pulled the chain out of the box and let my hands trail over the rope-like metal, which wasn't overly thick, but it was thicker than the necklace of my mother's that I intended to give Riza sometime a little less hectic than that night had been. It held a figure of some sort It felt almost like textured vines intertwined, carved out of metal. It was warm in my palm as I allowed my index finger to trace over it. It felt familiar somehow.
"It's the symbol we all wear," Al's still-raspy voice said. It was still odd to hear how the high tones from the armor had changed to the voice of a growing teenager, cracking and squeaking with puberty. "We thought you deserved to have one as well. If you don't like the necklace, Brother or I could change it into something different."
"How would he know if he likes it?" Ed asked with a light teasing tone. "He can't see it."
"He will eventually," Al said with such faith in my eyesight's return that I could have kissed the boy. It was more faith than I sometimes managed in my darker times.
I wrapped my hand around the necklace. "I thought this was something that you got because you were Mrs. Curtis' student," I said, turning my head to the direction of Ed and Al's voice.
"That is part of the reason we're giving this to you," I heard the woman say.
"You're going to teach me alchemy?" I asked. I was confused, as I knew a decent amount of alchemy, not to mention had learned the hard way the lessons that Mrs. Curtis taught the Elrics on that island.
"You know enough about alchemy, and we could work on polishing it," she said. "But that isn't what I meant. I meant that I want to teach you how to fight. If you can learn how to predict your opponent's movements, listen for where they are, your eyesight, or lack thereof, won't be an impediment."
"I didn't know you wanted to beat up on a blind man so much," I said with a chuckle. I could hear her let out a faint groan and knew she was likely restraining herself from strangling me. "I am joking. I accept. But, that leaves me in your debt more than I already am. I know you operate by equivalent exchange. What do you want in return?"
"Sig and I are hoping to adopt siblings from the orphanage here in Central, but to finalize the adoption, we have to let the kids get to know us," she said. "The process, including paperwork and visitations will take several weeks, months even."
"Can you afford to leave your business for so long?" I asked. They hadn't been back since the battle, and I could only imagine they had employees they trusted as much as I did my team.
"For this, absolutely," Sig's gruff voice replied, leaving no room for argument or further questioning.
"So, you two need a place to stay that is a bit more comfortable than the military guest quarters," I said, not waiting for confirmation. Even if that wasn't what they were asking for, they would get it, gladly. "I have five guest rooms. Have your pick."
"Thank you," Sig said.
"If your wife is willing to train me and it works, it will be me thanking the two of you."
Even if I was nowhere near the Elrics' skill level, which was probable, given the 15- and 16-year age difference, it certainly couldn't hurt matters for me. It made me think back to Ed's promise for a rematch. The first time around, I'd had more experience when it came to using my alchemy in battle and quick and ever-changing strategy, but when I'd faced off against Ed, he'd bested me when it came to the actual fighting. I smirked at what it could mean if I had the combination of alchemy, strategy and fighting ability and were to face Ed once again.
As though he could read my mind, Ed chimed in, "Don't get any ideas bastard. I can still kick your ass, even after she's through with you."
"We will see, Ed."