Welcome readers new and old! Thank you for clicking on my new story, Just You and Me. :) This is the sequel to my story Just One of Those Days, but if you'd like, you don't have to read the other first to understand this one, you just may be a bit confused at some places.

Hope you enjoy!

I do not own FMAB.

Without further ado,

I bring to you...

A Marshmellowtime Production...

Just You and Me

Prologue: GHOSTS of the Past

My eyes sought out the sky, and I sucked in a deep breath, letting the wind around me tease my hair, causing it to flutter about me.

My best choice was to visit Roy first, learn whatever he knew about my mother, and from then on, I would use whatever leads he could give me to start my search, no matter where it took me. I would find my mother, and I would get the chance to get closure on the matter of what happened in my family.

But despite the fearsome idea of traveling all around the world, I wasn't scared.

I had my body, my memories, my name, none of which I would ever give up again. But with those things beside me, I knew that when I stepped out of the home of my past, I would be able to live my future. After today, a different sort of journey would begin for me.

And I was ready to meet it head on.

The sun shone down brightly against the shimmering sand, sending heat hazes scattering across the earth, dizzying the air. The sand was a bed of golden beads, glinting and seeming to move soundlessly as hot air swirled against the desert ground, sending clouds of dust into the clear blue canvas, not a cloud in sight.

Heat radiated off the ground, baring fangs to unfamiliar foes of the desert. The town up ahead was like a far off oasis, hidden and tempting. It looked like an illusion from afar, but noises traveled over the sands, promising life just a few minutes away.

"Why..." My breath came out raspy, and I leaned over, resting my hands on my knees.

My head turned upwards and apple red eyes glared hard at the sun, and I felt my knees threaten to buckle as I pulled my lips back pitifully.

"IS IT SO DAMN HOT?"

My cry went out unheard, and I grumbled under my breath, reaching for the canteen in my leather knapsack and taking a sip of the lukewarm water. My lips felt chapped and dry as my dried tongue licked over them. I used the back of my gloved hand and rubbed dust out of my eye, wondering what a sight I must've looked like then.

Stupid deserts.

A swirl of wind buffeted against my already dry skin and I winced, my cape fluttering out with it as it blew my hood back, letting my long ginger braid snap out, bumping against my shoulder.

Stupid wind.

Grumpily, I took a step forward, letting out a surprised cry as my foot sunk into the ground, causing me to fall over and land face first in a pile of sand.

Stupid everything.

"What's a pretty thing like you doing all the way out here?" The man at the open bar counter eyed me curiously, his hands swiping over the cup he was cleaning. "You don't look like you're from around here."

"I get that a lot," I drank down the cold water he had offered greedily, using the back of my hand to wipe my mouth as I let out a relieved sigh. "I'm looking for someone."

"Not much to look for out here," He gestured to the small oasis town, where beyond that, lay nothing but hot sand and desert. "You sure you got the right address?"

Not exactly. "More or less." I rubbed my head, feeling my braid sling over my shoulder, and I buckled the coat, keeping it drawn around my chest. "Think you've seen her?"

I swung my leather knapsack around and lifted up the flap, rummaging around, I pulled out a simple photo, one of two women.

Both were gingers, and rather beautiful, filled with life in their eyes and happiness in their grins. The two were nearly identical; the only thing setting them apart was their eyes. The one on the left had eyes of the deepest blue, seemingly a collision of shades, while the one on the right had eyes of a dark green, resembling that of emeralds.

The bartender man blinked, taking the picture gently and examining the photo. "Quiet the beauties."

A small smile touched my lips at the compliment, and I knew I could never compare to the two. "I'm looking for the one on the right, green eyes."

His brow furrowed and he scratched at the stubble forming on his chin, eyes narrowed for a moment before he blinked in faint recognition. Hope flared in me like a wild fire, and I contained it carefully, watching his expression as he seemed to recall some event in the past.

"A woman like this passed by actually," He said, setting the photo down on the counter and tapping it thoughtfully. "Not to long ago—around the time Central was going through all that trouble, said she was exploring."

His eyes met mine and he blinked. "Looks like you actually. You related to her, kid?"

Now that is an insult. "I guess." I took the picture, tucking it away safely. Roy had been as helpful as he could have been in aiding me on the start of my search, going so far as to offer to help look himself.

But asking that of him would have been selfish. He had a country to help rebuild after the war Father had started, and after all the grief my family had given him, it was more than enough that he still wanted anything to do with me.

I approve. I thought silently, wondering if Amelia could hear my thoughts—I'd like to think my deceased aunt still could, and that she was beside me every step of the way on my journey.

Roughly two years ago, a war had broken out in Central, with a vicious plot planned to use the people of the country to make one large Philosopher Stone—an alchemic tool used to grant insane power and even perform miracles. The trouble had come from within the central government of the country itself, and a fierce battle had taken place, nearly tearing the country to shreds.

I, previously having been an amnesiac ghost back then—stick with me, I'm telling the truth here—had been thrown into the turmoil headfirst, forced to make choices and sacrifices that would haunt me for probably the rest of my life.

That much, I knew for certain.

When things had died down and I'd gotten my memories and body back, I had spent a few months with the Elric's, who kindly helped get my body back into shape. When I was deemed fit enough to go, I took off, with the help of a few other friends I had made back there, on a search to look for my mother, who had seemingly disappeared off the face of the earth.

Too much work for one person if you ask me.

"Do you know where she was headed?" I pulled a jug of ice cold water towards me, refilling my cup and then my canteen, ice cubes and all as I screwed the lid. "Or anything at all?"

The man looked troubled, scratching at his chin once more in thoughtful silence. "Well, she mentioned something about checking out the east. She wanted to learn more about the science or magic they were doing over there."

The man set down a fresh plate of fruits, drenched in sugary syrup, and I felt my mouth water as I quickly grabbed a fork, digging into the cool dish with delight. My toes curled in pleasure, and the man tapped his chin, brows furrowing.

"What was it now? Ping? Shin? No, that's not it... Ah! Xing! That was it, she was headed to the country a little ways off from here—Xing."

I froze, feeling the sweetness of the fruit leave me as I stared at the man with wide eyes, a smile still plastered on my lips around the fork in my mouth. Suddenly, everything tasted dull, bitter, and I felt a sick feeling begin to bubble up in the depths of my stomach as I stared at the man, refusing to believe what I'd just heard.

"D-Did you say Xing?"

"I reckon so." The man nodded, looking pleased. "Said she'd be spending a year or so there."

I quietly set down the fork, feeling dread drown me from within as I buried my head in my hands, letting out a low groan as the word registered in my head, and the meaning behind the word came through as well.

Xing?

But that's where...

"You don't look to well, sweetheart." The bartender suddenly looked worried, reaching behind him as if to grab for a basket. "You alright?"

"Fine," I waved my hand, burrowing my head into my hands. Damn it all.

As far as I knew, there was nothing wrong with the country of Xing itself. On the contrary, I had heard of many great things—namely from Alphonse Elric, a close friend and helper on my search.

It was beautiful country, rich in heritage and life, and filled with cultures I was unfamiliar with. From stories and tales from the traders I'd met, it sounded quite nice actually.

There was just one problem.

"They've just recently crowned a new emperor to my belief!" The bartender grinned, setting down another glass of water for me. "The country should be filled with festivities right now!"

Ling.

I offered the man a sheepish smile, chugging down the new glass of water and laying down some money gratefully. "Thanks for the help! Would you happen to know if there's a long distance phone around here?"

The bartender smiled warmly, pointing to a small building. "Over there—they've got a place for you to write letters too. And don't mention it kid—stay safe out there, you hear?"

I felt warmed by the comment, and it brought a flutter in my chest. It was nice to know there were people who gave a shit about you in the world.

Especially when I was looking for someone I assumed didn't.

I grinned, nodding my head and waving to him. "Thanks again!"

"You're headed where now?"

"I'm going to hop on with a trade caravan headed further east," I started, holding the phone to my ear and staring down at my dusty worn combat boots, my pants tucked sloppily in. "I plan to stop at Xing."

"At least Alphonse is there, he'll be a lot of help."

"Yeah." I paused for a moment, a strange feeling filling me as I stared at the ground. "How are you Uncle Roy?"

"Uncle?"

"It only seems right," I answered cheekily, and I heard a voice in the background. Roy spoke to the other person before turning his attention back to me.

"I've been busy I suppose. The Fuhrer is letting me off easy and I've got a ways to go to making friendly terms with the Ishvalans." Roy sounded tired, but pleased, and it made a smile touch my lips. "Have you been healthy?"

"I do my best," I played with the leather bands on my wrist, the familiarity they brought was a welcome presence on the lonely journey. "Couple hours here and there, eating plenty—getting sick of this desert though."

"You're welcome to come back whenever you feel like it," Roy replied warmly, and I wondered if maybe in a better life, he could've actually been my dad instead. "My house isn't the best at the moment, but my door's always open."

"I'd be better off at the Elrics."

"I'll remember that next time you stop by."

I laughed, feeling light for a moment, relieved and at ease. There was a sort of lonely comfort Roy offered, we'd both lost someone close to us, and we'd lost the same person to boot. He was like the father I wished I had, and he did whatever he could to help me out.

"I'll write to you when I arrive." I promised, glancing out the door to where the inside of the building led to a small mailroom-like structure. "See ya, Uncle Roy."

"Stay safe, kiddo."

I waited till there was a soft click, and I placed the phone back into its place. Stepping out of the booth, I slipped into the smaller building and gazed around. A few workers stood behind countertops, but otherwise, the room was near empty.

There were a few desks pushed out into the corner, with ink and paper for writing, and a drop off box beside it. I stared at the table and moved towards it first, taking out a paper and pulling out my own pen as I leaned over, scribbling an overdue letter to Winry first, another letter to say hello to Ed, and then finally, a letter to Alphonse.

I had pulled out another sheet, and I stared at it long and hard contemplating what to do.

"When we meet again, I'll be able to tell you what you mean to me."

"I can't." I groaned, nearly slamming my head into the desk. I raised my head up and stared lifelessly at the paper. It's not like I haven't been thinking about it...but with all that's been going on...

My eyes caught onto the leather bracelets on my wrists. I stared at them for a moment, eyes softening as an ache made itself known in my chest.

I'd been looking for some of my old things, and when I'd gone into Greed's room for memory's sake, there they'd been, lying on the dresser, untouched, faintly dusty. I didn't know why I took them, but for some reason, having them beside me felt like the closest I'd get to having him beside me.

I miss him.

"Can I face Ling yet?" I murmured, brows furrowing. "I'm not even sure about how I feel..."

Maybe he met someone else! I perked up suddenly, eyes shining hopefully. I mean, he's emperor now, right? So there's probably a ton of girl's wanting to be his lover. He must've chosen someone.

Keeping the thought in mind, I grinned, still going back to Alphonse's letter and writing a side note to keep my trek to Xing a secret.

Just in case, right?

I slipped all the letters into their respective envelopes and approached the counter, purchasing a couple stamps and sliding the extra ones into my bag. "Can I check for any mail?"

"Of course," The woman behind the lady glanced up. "Name?"

"Gho—Alice." I corrected, grinning faintly to myself. "Alice Lithers, but could you check under Ghosty too?"

"Alright," She looked slightly confused, but disappeared into what I assumed was the mail room. It was good I sent letters often, keeping them up to date where I was, but it was unlikely I'd get any letters all the way out here.

"I found one," The woman returned, looking surprised. "Under Ghosty, here you are."

I paused, surprised as well as I took the envelope from her. The second it hit my hands I felt a sense of dread, staring at the beautiful red color and gold color lining around the edges. It looked like something meant for kings, and I had an aching suspicion as to where it came from.

I paled at the prospect. The woman watched me curiously as I set the letter down carefully on the table, holding it at arms length as I switched out my pocket knife and slid the top open.

"If anything comes out of this," I warned her, and she looked frightened all of a sudden, taking a step back. "Just run."

The roses had been scary enough. I shuddered at the last mail stop and carefully nudged the letter out of the envelope. When nothing happened, I breathed a sigh of relief, taking the letter and flipping it open.

My love,

I hope all's been well. You still haven't replied to any of my letters yet, and as worried as I am, you reply to Alphonse's so I know you're alright. Although, I am greatly wounded you reply to his but not your lover's. On other news, the coronation ceremony has finished, and Xing is beautiful this time of year. I look out and the flowers blooming remind me of you, and I hope to see you again soon. Though you weren't able to attend the ceremony, I hope you'll be here for the festivals coming up.

Love, forever and always,

Emperor Ling Yao.

P.S- Wouldn't Alice Yao sound nice?

The mail lady reading over my shoulder swooned, her cheeks dusted as she cooed at the contents of the letter. I felt my face pale and I quickly crumpled the letter up into a ball, stuffing it into my knapsack and breathing heavily, slapping a palm to my face.

My gaze traveled outside the window to where the desert lay, and I swallowed the lump in my throat.

The date was a few weeks ago. I nodded reassuringly, slinging the bag over my shoulder and sighing. He's probably sending them to be nice. He must've met someone way better for him by now.

Nonetheless, I was staying under cover when I arrived in Xing.

Just in case.

"Your majesty, what shall the colors of the drapery be?"

"Red and gold—I wish to keep the traditional colors at best."

"Your majesty, would you prefer duck or pork for the main roast?"

"Both."

"Your majesty, we have discussed, and believe that closing down one of the main roads would be best for the festival."

"Send word and check with the residents first."

"Your majesty—"

"My gracious council," The young emperor's voice rang out across the hall, and all movement came to an abrupt halt. Ling Yao resisted the urge to press his fingers to his head and instead inclined his head slightly. "I wish to take a break for today, preparations can resume tomorrow."

Without a second hesitation, the people bowed, robes sweeping the floor as they stood and left. Ling waited till every last one had disappeared behind large double doors, and then slumped in the throne, tilting his head back and letting out a low groan.

"Lan Fan."

"Yes, my lord." Lan Fan stepped from the shadow of the throne, mask shielding her face as she inclined her head slightly.

Ling's lips twitched and he patted her arm. "What ever happened to Young Lord?"

"You are no longer young, my lord. You are the emperor now." Lan Fan reminded, her voice was impassive, but it took trained ears to detect the faint fondness in her voice. "Thus, my lord."

"I see." Ling continued to stare at the ceiling, eyes roaming over intricate designs; perhaps he should change that... "Lan Fan?"

"Yes, my lord?"

"Do I have to do all this?" Ling whined, emperor façade falling from his shoulders as he slumped in the throne. "I hire them to prepare so that I don't."

"They wish to please you." Lan Fan stated finally, and Ling sighed, knowing full well that his body guard, and most trusted friend and companion, was right.

Being emperor came with responsibilities.

But what'd he give to be rid of these draping robes and in his former clothes, when he'd been traveling about searching for the Philosopher's Stone.

His adventures in Amestris.

Amestris.

Ginger and red clouded his mind, leaving a spicy sweetness, a tang, in his mouth as he threatened to slump further, close to sliding out of the chair as images came to mind. The familiar face, the eyes, the bright, eye catching hair, soft lips, fiery attitude...how he missed it.

He missed Ghosty.

It had been several years since their departure, and as reluctant as he had been, he had only left with the thought in mind that he would receive letters—preferably daily, on how she was doing.

In a span of two years, Ling had received two letters.

Two. Letters.

The first had been a month after their departure, when he had arrived in Xing and preparations were being made to appoint him as the next emperor.

And it had been a simple two paragraphed letter saying that she was doing fine, asking dully how he was, and saying that the food at the Elric's house was phenomenal.

The second letter had come a year after, telling him to stop sending so many ridiculous letters.

He hadn't heard from her since.

Ling had first gone through withdrawals, tempted to leave his country and hunt her down and take her back to Xing with him. Though Lan Fan had gently and firmly reminded him of his duties as emperor, and he had been coaxed into staying.

It didn't stop him from sending out scouts though.

But even then, no distance or months of no word could dampen the feelings for the ginger. When he had come back to his country, he had sat down beside Fu's grave and seriously mulled over his thoughts and feelings, taking into thought that it could've been a spur of the moment, and act he had made simply because he was young and foolhardy.

Ling had arrived with the conclusion that he did in fact, love her.

It had nearly driven him mad, not knowing a thing. Whether she was eating well, sleeping well, getting along well—he spent endless days lounging about wondering if she'd changed much, from her hair to her personality. He often wondered how she looked now.

It had only been when Alphonse joined him here in the later years that he had been able to be a bit at peace. For unfairly, the blonde received monthly letters, sometimes short and hurried, but letters nonetheless.

Ling only had two.

And when Ling saw her again, not if, he would force her to sit down and learn how to write a proper letter.

But Alphonse dutifully kept him updated, stating that she was fine, her search was going fairly alright, and that she sometimes missed the whole lot of them.

But that could not appease the burning desire in Ling's heart to see her again, to feel her in his arms—alive and full, not transparent and flickering as she'd been the time he'd first known her. He wanted to hear her laugh, see her crooked grin, and have her eyes soften at him.

All in all, he wanted Ghosty, or Alice now, to be at his side.

Little did he know, his wish was soon to be granted.

If my calculations were correct, and all those times I'd gotten to know you, you should be getting this letter, meaning you're in Xing by now like I'd thought.

I'm not writing to lecture you, so don't go crumpling the paper just yet. I guess I would ask how you've been, but to be frank, I don't really care. And we both know she would be at our throats for getting along so terribly after her death.

Aside from our strained relationship, I sent this letter to make you aware that your daughter is searching for you. Her intentions, I don't know, but I have a guess if I know her as well as I did Amelia. I can tell you though that she's stubborn, and run as you'd like, she'll catch up to you.

Try not to screw up this time.

Mustang.

"Huh, guess he still doesn't like me." Emerald eyes glittered in amusement as she leaned back against the cool walls of the tavern. Dark ginger hair tumbled past her shoulders and she ran her eyes over the letter, a small smile on her lips.

My daughter.

How odd it sounded to hear those words. What would she look like? She was like herself? Her sister? Was she timid or bold? Stupid or snarky?

She honestly had no clue.

But she couldn't deny the flicker of curiosity running through her to find out. Her eyes soared over the country of Xing, the central city alive with preparations for the festival coming up, and a small smirk turned her lips upwards.

She wouldn't le tit be that easy, she'd see just how bad her daughter wanted to find her ass of a mother, and actually, she probably shouldn't even consider herself that.

Her actions were inexcusable. That was fact, and something she would never, not ever, forget.

If this is you telling me not to screw up, I won't, Lia. Her eyes sought the sky, reminding her of the shades of blue her sister's eyes were. I won't run off this time.

"I can't wait." The mother slid shades over her eyes and slung her bag over her shoulder, pocketing the letter and finding herself immersed in the crowd.

It's been a long time, kiddo.

Because I'm so nice, I've left it at that. :D

As I promised, April 6! Pacific time though, hahaha. But aside from that, I hope you've all enjoyed the first chapter of the sequel JYAM, and that it was up to standards. I'm glad to be writing this again, and with all the other stories I've just thrown onto my plate, I wonder how it'll work out, haha.

To my JOOTD readers, welcome back, and thank you for patiently waiting and supporting me all this way. It's good to be back, and I hope you'll all be there step by step on Ghosty's new journey!

Thanks for reading!

Marshmellow-

-OUT!