Hello, the stuff for this drabble is below.

…..

Ed stands ankle deep in the red water, lost in thought as the transmutation circle above his head catches his eye. He'd learned the truth, and even though he knows the consequences for using that knowledge, Ed might be a fool for not taking this opportunity that has presented itself to him. What were the lives of a few rotten criminals compared to that of his brother? Al could get his body back and all Ed has to do is activate the circle and it will be done.

He sighs. It isn't that simple, though. What kind of a person would he be to waste so many lives like that? Ed doubts that Al will appreciate that kind of exchange; in fact he knows that Al won't forgive him for such a sacrifice. Al cares about others too much to see himself healed in such a way, even if it means remaining trapped in his armor.

Ed takes another look around the room; the prisoners, the homunculi, his brother… All are there, but will he take that step to return his brother to normal? Should he do it, and if so, will either of them ever forgive themselves for such a selfish act?

No. Ed steps back from the circle. He can't do it, even if those prisoners are criminals. They're still human beings, what gives him the right to decide who lives and who dies?

….

This was written for various challenges on the Fullmetal Alchemist: A Bit of Everything challenge forum:

The Becoming the Tamer King Challenge - Azulongmon's Task (write a drabble about conflict, under 300 words).

A-Maze-Ing Race Challenge – benefit.

Diversity Writing Challenge – Section A, #52: A drabble between 201 and 300 words.

The 100 Prompts Challenge - #3: forfeit.

The Monthly Quotes Challenge, March 2014: "My goal in life is to be as good of a person my dog already thinks I am." – Unknown

Snakes and Ladders Challenge – Edward