(A/N: Here's chapter forty three! Last time, everyone was suffering from their own illusory nightmares. Edward gets captured by a Hollow, but is saved by Eria. However, during that whole bout Ed starts to become more spiritually aware. That's some good news! The bad news though, Orihime has a mental/emotional breakdown in the end. Will she recover? Or will the trauma get to her? Well, that's enough of a recap. Enjoy!

erica . phoenix16: Thanks for the review! Yes, everything that's happening in the Bleach world is happening while Orihime is gone. It eventually ties in later on. That's why I put those Bleach snippets. To eventually show how other Bleach characters would show up in the final battle of FMA when the time comes. Though, don't go thinking that final battle would be same as the anime. No. Definitely not. I won't tell you how much will change or what parts will, but it will definitely, definitely not be the same as the anime. That much is clear. Oh, and I tried putting your name the way it is, but every time the docs keeps taking it off. It could because of the '.' The site probably thinks it's some kind of website.

sacke110: Thanks for reviewing! Aww! Don't blame Nina. She still just a little kid. But the Ed's capture by Amelia was heartbreaking, seeing her tearing him down by attacking his insecurities over the love triangle between him, Orihime, and Ichigo right after Orihime rejected him. It shows that males can be just as emotionally vulnerable about love and romance as females can. Plus, also...kind of disgusting as you put it...I guess because she's a human empowered by a Hollow.

TheEmeraldMage: Thanks for reviewing! I think by 'plot holes' you mean 'plot points', right? Plot holes is when something doesn't make sense within the story's narrative. Wait...! There are OVAs of Bleach? Because I haven't seen them either. Unless, your friend is talking about those Bleach light novels. I haven't seen those either by the way, but I heard what happens in some of them. One of them is about the aftermath of the final battle with Aizen and the other is about what happened between the Thousand Year Blood arc and the final time skip, focusing on Rukia's and Renji's marriage and Orihime and Ichigo hooking up. Second, about Awakening... Hmm, I think I might buy it some time. Once, I have enough money to spare.)

Hughes, We Will Never Forget You

Orihime woke up, feeling tired and groggy. She didn't get much sleep last night. Edward decided that they should stay in an inn at Neshire for the night. They were going to leave right after breakfast. They have a train scheduled to take them back to Central at eleven thirty in the morning.

But… She curled her body, her knees pressed against her chest and her arms wrapped around them, tightly. Last night's upsetting events replayed, countlessly in her head. How could she cry like that? How could she be so weak and vulnerable right in front of Ed? How could she breakdown in front of him? She was so embarrassed! Plus, she hit him! Dear god, what was wrong with her?! She hurt Ed's and Al's feelings. She had to apologize to them both somehow.

The auburn haired girl felt the bed shift a little on her right. Gray eyes glanced over to see Nina beginning to stir. Her eyelids slowly fluttered open to reveal dopey, blue depths underneath. The young girl let out a small yawn, and lazily rubbed her eyes. She stretched her tired limbs and scooted her body until she sat upright.

Nina unhurriedly turned her head in the older girls direction, and immediately all sense of grogginess left her. A bright smile etched on her face. "Good morning, big sis!" she beamed, happily hugging her. She detached her head, slightly in order to look at her with concern, blue orbs. "Big Sis Ori, are you feeling better now?"

The healer gave her one of her usual whimsical grins. "I'm fine now, Nina," she replied, enclosing her right arm around the brown, pig tailed girl in a half hug. "Sorry for making you worry."

"I'm going to go potty," the seven year old child announced. She climbed out of the bed, and dashed off to the bathroom.

Orihime smiled as Nina left, but it faded into a solemn, gloomy frown once the door closed. She was anxious. She was anxious about showing her face to the brothers. After her last night's pitifully downhearted display, how could she? How could she face them? She felt so guilty and ashamed of herself.

However, that wasn't the real reason she felt so mortified by her actions. No, what the ginger haired girl was most embarrassed and humiliated about was that she showed her weak and fragile side to Edward! Her cheery and bubbly facade all but dropped to reveal her broken, miserable self. No one wants to see that side of her. She shouldn't be a burden to anyone. She was supposed to be happy, cheerful, and optimistic all the time. That's what people want to see. That's what people need to see, so they wouldn't consider her to be a liability. Her problems were trivial and insignificant in the grand scheme of things. She tried to be strong, she tried her hardest to be strong, but she was still so weak.

Orihime vigorously shook her head. If that happened, she would just have to try her best not to be so down about it. She had to show Ed, present the brothers with her usual, cheerful self. If she did that… If she did that, then they won't have to worry about her. Everything would go back to normal.

She slapped both of her cheeks several times to remotivate herself. She had to go back to her old self. She could still apologize to Edward and Alphonse somehow, but she couldn't do it if she's all mopey and gloomy. No, she needed to get herself back into gear.

With renewed resolve, the ginger haired girl hopped out of bed in time for Nina to finish using the restroom. She smiled at the pig tailed child. "You done with the bathroom, Nina?"

"Yep!" the young girl chirped.

She nodded. "Good. Well, I'm going in then. Make sure to change out of your pajamas because we are meeting with the boys in the dining hall."

The child complied with the request, already beginning to shed her hot pink and white pajama top and bottoms.

Beaming at that, Orihime gathered her school uniform, and headed into the bathroom to do her business. As she was getting ready for the day, she contemplated, deeply on the many ways she could apologize. She decidedly figured she could make it up to Edward by cooking his favorite meal. The problem was she doesn't know what Ed's favorite food was. She sighed, shrugging her shoulders. Guess, she had no choice, but to ask him.

The auburn haired girl's hand flew to her chest. However, just the thought of making something special for Ed caused her heart to flutter. Why? Why was her heart beating so fast? She was just… She was just cooking for him. It was nothing new. Just a simple meal. She always cooks for him and everybody else. She enjoyed it. Then why? Why was her face becoming red?

Was this becomes she making something specifically for him? That could be it, yet doesn't make any sense. There was no reason for her to start feeling shy and bashful over the prospect of it. She tried telling herself, convincing herself that it was no big deal. It's not like she was cooking for her crush, Ichigo. But the butterflies in her stomach wouldn't go away, her heart was still soaring, and she was so nervous and anxious. All of these emotions just made her very, very confused. Maybe she was still muddled and disoriented from yesterday's events. Maybe, truthfully, she was still shaken up, and she was looking for comfort and Edward was her closest friend. That would make sense about why she was all nervous. If that's the case, she would need to rely on herself for solace. She needed to become stronger!

The ginger haired girl was already dressed in her gray uniform, and was pacing back and forth in the bathroom. Five minutes. She was giving herself five minutes for her to relax and make these baffling feelings go away.

"Big sis, are you done?" She could hear Nina's voice calling her right through the bathroom's wall. "I'm ready!"

"I'll be right there, Nina!" she shouted back. The healer slapped her palms against her face to compose herself.

"Okay. Let's do this."

Orihime wasn't the only one who felt nervous, Edward was tense and on edge as well. However, there were a few more emotions added to the list, and that was mortification, irritation, and displeasure.

He couldn't believe that woman kissed him! He felt sick and disgusted at the imagines of the woman's vile lips against his, and her repulsive tongue slithering into his mouth. It was the second time he's ever been kissed by a girl, and it was so damn nauseating and unpleasant! So, so much different from the lovely, heavenly sensation of his first kiss.

Alphonse questioning him about what happened to him, why wasn't he there with them when they woke up caused Ed to recall everything that happened between him and Amelia. Once he did, his face turned red out of humiliation and embarrassed, and he ran into the bathroom where he was still currently residing, not bothering to answer Al's inquiries.

The blond alchemist has been spending the last five minutes or so aggressively brushing her teeth. He tried, with all his might, to scrub Amelia's revolting DNA from his mouth. He could still taste the woman's off putting stench. After vigorously rinsing his mouth with water, he spat out the mixture purifying water, cleansing toothpaste, and Amelia's sickening saliva from his mouth.

He stared at himself in the mirror, forcefully drying his mouth with the back of his hand. He hoped that he purged most Amelia's filthy mark from within him. At the end of the day, she was one, sick, perverted woman.

Though, the blush on Edward's face remained. Although, this time it stayed for a different reason, and it was much darker than before. Did he really just say that? Did he really just passionately scream out his feelings for Orihime, and openly admitted he was jealous of Ichigo?

(FLASHBACK)

"Shut up!" Edward glowered at the woman, despite his unsteady from, rage burning in his eyes. "You don't understand a damn thing about me! So, what if I'm jealous? Do you really think I would hurt Orihime over a stupid reason like that? Yeah, I do find myself wondering where do I belong inside her heart? Is there even a place for me?" He gripped his chest, tightly, the spot where his aching heart lay, his tone becoming more subdued and low spirited along with a hint of sadness and anguish. "And sure, there was a part of me wishing she never met Ichigo, imagining what it would be like if she never even knew his name. Lately, my mind has been plagued by thoughts about her and Ichigo...and about me. Seeing her with another man drives me mad, almost to the point of insanity. It hurts. When it comes between Orihime and Ichigo, where am I in the picture? I agonized over it so much inside me, my heart was beginning to burst. A burning, nauseating feeling in the pit of my stomach began to stir up. It's unbearable and too devastating to watch or to even think about. My chest tightens so much it becomes hard to breath sometimes. In that illusion back there, the one you say that brings out our heart's innermost darkest and despairing fears, when I saw her and Ichigo together, the only thing my mind could think of was that 'Orihime has been taken away from me'. When it comes to Ichigo, there's no place for me. I realized, at that moment, what that pain in my heart meant. ...I'm jealous," he uttered out, a tiny smile of resignation graced his lips. "But it wasn't any ordinary jealousy. This one stung at the core of my being like a white hot vice unwilling to let go. I'm jealous of the bond her and Ichigo share. It hurts so much! And I don't know if this pain would ever go away. Seeing her with someone else… I don't want it. I don't want her with anyone else!" he screamed out, his emotions fuming with indignant displeasure and disgruntled discontentment, furiously shaking his head. "Hehe," an acquiescent laugh escaped him. "Maybe I am just hurt and petty and bitter like you said. Guess, men are just naturally possessive. Or it could be just me. Yes, it hurts. It hurts seeing them together like that. Even if it was just my fears playing with my mind. But what hurts more is the thought of doing anything to make Orihime cry," he snarled, his outcry shaking the walls of the building and his golden eyes ablaze with renewed vigor and determination. "So let me fucking tell you something, you bitch! If you ever lay a finger on Orihime, I will obliterate you! I will protect her! That's a promise!

(END OF FLASHBACK)

He did! He did say it! HE CONFESSED!

Oh god! He could just die of embarrassment!

Edward rewound the memory, desperately trying to find the loophole with in. Okay… All he confessed was that he liked her. He never said anything about liking her more than just an important friend. He doesn't love her.

Except that… He does like her. More than just a friend. But...he doesn't love her. Admittedly, he had strong feelings for Orihime. His massive jealousy towards her love for Ichigo helped him realize how much Orihime means to him. He was possessive of her. He was envious of Ichigo for having something of hers he couldn't dream of possessing. Her heart.

He couldn't help it. The prospect of her and other guys just naturally drive him crazy, especially Ichigo. His first response to other men hanging around Orihime has always and will always be seething anger and uncontrollable jealousy. He just can't help it. He can't help his jealous rages. It was just an inherent instinct of his to overact at the thought of Orihime and other guys.

Seeing her kiss Ichigo, even if it was his imagination, hurts. Oh god, it hurts so damn much! He felt his heart rip in half. A dark, unrelenting torrent of distressing jealousy, heart crushing anguish, and bitter rage surrounded him, drowning him in its ice cold depths. He was, in no uncertain terms, undeniably happy to learn that it wasn't real. He was secretly thrilled at the prospect of the whole thing being nothing more than his insecurities getting the best of him. But wasn't that more than proof enough that he wanted Orihime all to himself? He was jealously possessive of her. The thought of her with other men fills him with so much anger and rage, he can't stand it!

In the end, yes, he liked her. He cares deeply for her. Over time, she gradually became very dear and important to him. He all but screamed out his true feelings for her in an explosion of anger and passion. However, after all that, that doesn't mean he loves her. He likes her. ...Sure. But he...he wasn't in love with Orihime. There's a difference! She wasn't even his girlfriend! So, that's that! No big deal… Right? Right?

Ed covered his blushing countenance with his flesh and metal hands. Oh, who the hell was he kidding? Maybe he was in love with Orihime. Wouldn't that explain why, whenever they are alone together, he has a strong, almost overwhelming desire to hold her hand? Why when he isn't thinking alchemy or science or how to return his younger brother back to normal, his thoughts are filled with her? And why his heart skips a beat every time he sees one of her wonderful, radiant smiles? He doesn't know.

In all honesty, he wasn't sure how deep his feelings for the auburn haired healer ran. He just doesn't know what he really felt about the healer. He loudly proclaimed about what he felt about Orihime's and Ichigo's relationship. That he was jealous of Ichigo holding a place in Orihime's heart. And it was all true. He spoke the entire truth. Nothing but the wholehearted truth. He just...wasn't entirely sure if it could be called 'love'. All he knows is that he cares for her very, very, very much. Orihime's very important to him. He was...attracted to her.

After a few moments to calm the rapid beating of his heart and for his blush to die down, his mind drifted next to Orihime's breakdown. Ed uncovered his face, a solemn expression taking place. He had never seen her cry like that. The endless tears wouldn't stop. She clung to him desperately for support and comfort. There was nothing but heart wrenching sadness and devastating despair radiating from her. She never let go, her body shaking, trembling in fear the entire time. It's only when she eventually cried herself to sleep that her grip finally loosened.

And he… Ed's flesh hand fisted, tightly on the edge around the counter of the sink. And he couldn't do a damn thing to help her! He couldn't console her. He could offer her words of comfort. All he could do was sit there and let her cry, miserably on his shoulder. He never felt more incompetent than in that moment. It hurt his heart to see Orihime so broken and fragile. It was almost…unfathomable. Normally, she's so bubbly, cheerful, and carefree. She had a blithe spirit that was full of energy, wonder, and compassion.

It was such a rare sight. That was why he was at a loss at what to do. Plus, without knowing what kind of pyschological torture Amelia put her through, he wouldn't know where to begin to console her. But whatever it was, it must've been painful enough to cause her to cower in fear and sob uncontrollably.

He failed. He failed to protect her. Somehow, he's always failing Orihime one way or another.

Ed took in a deep breath. He reopened his golden eyes with renewed determination and resolve. He would just have to do something to make her feel better. He wanted to see her smile again. The question was how? Urgh! He would just have to figure it out when the time comes.

Now, he had to get out. He couldn't stay in the bathroom forever. Al and the others were waiting for him.

Orihime was waiting for him.

Alphonse followed Edward towards the dining hall the innkeeper told them about last night. He would be lying if he said he wasn't shooken up from that nightmarish illusion. It felt so real. Almost too real. It felt like he was actually living in it, and that was terrifying.

He wondered if that was what a nightmare was. It wasn't real, so it could be considered a horrific dream, can't it? Would it be weird if he said that he also...liked it? It's just so surreal to have these odd mixture of guilty pleasure and frightening discomposure swirling inside him. He just...couldn't remember the last time he experienced a nightmare. After all, he was incapable of sleep. This experience has enlightened him to say the least. It made him incredibly happy to feel human again.

But still… That...nightmare about the day they committed the taboo, and performed a Human Transmutation on his mother was...unsettling. The aftereffects of the dark illusion left him horrified and guilt ridden about his terrible actions towards his mother. He never meant to cause her so much pain and suffering. He never meant to kill her! All he wanted was to see her smile again and to feel her warmth one more time. That's all he wanted. He never meant to hurt her.

His glowing, red eyes nervously glanced at his older brother. He wondered if Ed underwent the same spine chilling illusion as he did. After all, his older brother was filled as just as much guilt and self loathing as him, if not more so. Edward may be too proud to admit how much he's hurting, but Al knows his brother. He knows he still blames himself for what happened.

He wanted to talk to him about it, and how he escaped. When he tried to bring it up, Ed told him he was captured by an unpleasant woman with much annoyance and disdain in his tone. However, when the suit of armor questioned the details of what happened, the blond alchemist's face immediately turned bright red when he recalled the events, and he hurriedly dashed into the bathroom. Though, when he finally came out, he adamantly and awkwardly refused to go into the details, which made the younger Elric even more skeptical. Now, he was more curious than ever for answers. Just what happened between Ed and Amelia?

The two brothers entered the hall. There was a variety of breakfast food at the self service counter. Mostly a bunch of fried eggs, french toast, small throwable containers filled with cereal with a cartoon of milk on the side for it, eggs benedict, and waffles with tiny packs of syrup that came with a different flavors, ranging from regular to maple to honey flavored.

There were very few people in the dining hall. The Elric brothers scanned the area for their female companions, but, unfortunately, they were nowhere in sight.

"Orihime's not here yet," Edward announced, somewhat sad and disappointed.

The disappointment in his brother's tone did not go unnoticed from Alphonse. "Orihime and Nina should be coming here soon," he reassured him. "Why don't we wait for them? You go ahead and get some breakfast, brother. I'll find us a table," he suggested.

Ed nodded, solemnly, and strolled towards the breakfast counter. Al stared his brother's retreating back. He seemed excited, anxious, and agitated to see Orihime. The worry, concern, and some deep, unknown emotion that burned in his golden eyes was not unnoticeable. Maybe Ed was still worried about what happened to her last night. Al was worried, too.

The suit of armor started walking around the moderately large room, trying to find a table that could fit the four of them, even with his large, metal build. He maneuvered through various tables and people, being mindful to keep his metallic movements quiet, so he would not disturb them.

He finally managed to spot a large, round table that could with four chairs surrounding it. He ignored the weird looks people were shooting him. He was used to it. From the corner of his vision, he could see a small boy pointing at him, gazing at him, curiously, only to be lightly scolded by his mother. If Al could, he would smile with nostalgia as pleasant memories of his past with his older brother and mother.

Alphonse pulled out a chair and quietly sat down. He reflected on yesterday's events. Everything that happened was fantastically bizarre. No amount of rational could describe what occurred to the four of them. It seemed that ever since their run in with those mod souls, things have been getting weirder and weirder. And just moderately weird such as running into a crazed serial killer. But overtly weird. Just over the top outlandish.

Unbeknownst to them, their lives have turned completely upside down. Granted, being children, and children with missing body parts at that, who worked for the military, their lives weren't exactly normal in the first place. Though still, this was...everything was… What's been happening these past few months was...mind boggling freakish and scarily abnormal. It's like every sense of normality doesn't exist anymore. Or should he start calling this normal now? Mod souls, unseeable attacks, overly weird events that defies logic and reasoning… Should all that be considered normal for him, for them now? He wasn't sure. Urgh. He was having a metaphorical headache. He wondered what his brother thought about all these odd occurrences? Not to mention, there were people who know who he was. That he was just a soul bonded to a suit of armor. This was worrying. Very worrying and frightening.

"What's up, Al? What's on your mind?"

The light sound of tray hitting the table and his brother's concerned caught the soul bonded armor's attention. Ed took a spot on the seat on his right. His blond brows were furrowed together as he chewed on a piece french toast after buttering it. His breakfast consisted of a couple of waffles with maple syrup, buttered french toast, and a glass of orange juice.

Al just sighed. "Brother, don't you think everythings been so...strange lately?"

Edward raised a questioning eyebrow, silently signaling to elaborate.

"It's just… I don't know how to explain it. The mod souls, the time with Reo and Riku, and now this? These past few months have been one bizarre incident after another. I'm so confused. What in the world is going on? Our lives have gotten way weirder than they normally are, and I just don't understand," the suit of armor bemused, feeling lost and starting to doubt his sanity.

The elder Elric nodded in agreement. He could completely understand his younger brother's frustrations and puzzlement. He felt the same way. Every mysterious and freakish circumstances they've experienced caused them to question their own sanity. He wanted to get the bottom of all this. He just doesn't know how.

"Big brother Ed! Big brother Al!"

The two boys perked at the sound of a familiar girlish and childish voice calling their names. The brothers gazed out near the entrance of the hall to see Nina happily having at them with a bashful Orihime standing next to her. The child's shouting catching the attention of some of the people within the vicinity, which caused most people's eyes to be on them.

When Edward's golden eyes caught sight and greeted Orihime's gray ones, he felt a pleasant jolt hit him. He could feel his cheeks heating up. In confusion, he witnessed her face turning a light shade of pink before she broke eye contact to address Nina. Whatever she said caused the little girl to bob her hand, and gingerly hold her hand. The two girls headed towards the self service counter, no doubt getting some breakfast.

"Brother."

Al's voice snapped Ed out of his persistent staring, and he turned his head towards his younger brother. When he focused on him, his golden orbs narrowed. He did not look his brother was giving him.

"Something on your mind, Al?" he challenged, suspiciously, daring the suit of armor to voice out what he thinks he is thinking about.

"Oh, nothing, brother," the younger Elric whistled, foreign innocence.

However, the blond alchemist wasn't having it. He could practically hear the teasing smirk in his brother's tone. "Spit it out, Al!" he growled, slightly aggravated. "I know you're grinning."

Al waved gauntlet hands in front of his face, trying to placate his irate brother. "It's really nothing, brother," he said, trying his best to resist the urge to snicker. "Honest."

Ed glared at Al for a few seconds, not the least be convinced that it was 'nothing'. Finally, he sighed, exasperatedly and returned to eating his breakfast. Whatever. He would just drop the subject then. No reason to get worked up about it. He hoped. He chewed on his waffle and swallowed it, and took a sip of his juice to gulp it down.

"Brother, when are you going to tell Orihime you love her?" Al teased, slyly. The out of the blue question instantly caused the blond alchemist spit out his drink in shock and surprise. The suit of armor heartily laughed at his older brother's comically stunned, wide eyes and extremely flushed face.

Once he was able to calm down, Ed glared at Al, who, even without a physical body, was staring at him with a playfully smug grin and an amusing twinkle in his glowing, red eyes. Anger rising, he opened his mouth to chew out his annoying brother, only to be beaten.

"Good morning, Big Brother Ed, Big Brother Al," Nina chirped, catching the boys' attention. Orihime stood behind the peppy child, awkwardly. Ed yelped in surprise and alarm, almost jumping out of his chair. He stared at the girls, clearly embarrassed and panicked, internally praying that they did not overhear their conversation just now.

"Good morning, Eddie, Al," she greeted them, shyly, averted her eyes away from them. He breathed a sigh of relief. Thank god, they didn't.

Orihime, on the other hand, was feeling somewhat self conscious. She wasn't ready to see them, after all. Especially, Ed. She wasn't ready to see him. Her heart is pounding so much, and she doesn't understand why. Maybe she was still nervous about what she was going to ask. Cooking something specifically for someone, expressly a boy, was nerve wracking. She has cooked for him before. She is the main chief in their little group.

But this… This somehow felt different, extremely different. Even contrasting from the time she tried to make chocolates for Ichigo, but couldn't bring herself to due to strange circumstances. Though, it ended up being pleasant, wishful dream forced upon her, she felt the sensation of anticipation, excitement, and resolve coursing through her throughout the affair. Now, however, she filled with a splendor of diverse, clashing emotions. Happiness, anxiety, bashfulness, timidity, giddiness, embarrassment… So many emotions she wasn't sure she could describe them all. Why? Why was she feeling this way? It's Ed, so why? These are emotions she was supposed to be feeling for Ichigo, not Ed. She was so confused and conflicted.

Orihime desperately wanted to take the chair two seats away from the blond alchemist, but Nina beat her to it. Blue eyes gazed at her and the chair next to him, expectedly. The auburn haired stiffened with apprehension when she realized what the young child wanted. She doesn't know whether to applaud her or inwardly moan at her perceptiveness. Either way, she was trapped.

Although, she could stand around forever. She was getting more self conscious by the minute as her friends eyes were on her. Stealing her nerves and calming her, she, at last, took the chair next to Ed.

Her breakfast comprised of some eggs benedict, fried eggs, french toast, and a glass of apple juice. Nina had a carton of cereal and milk along with some fried eggs and the container of leftover milk she didn't use for her cereal.

Nina began happily eating her cereal. She discreetly eyed Orihime and Edward from the corner of her eye. She watched as they both refused to look at each other, too awkward and nervous. She really wanted big sis and big brother to make up. The little girl nudged the ginger haired healer. When gray drifted her way, she smiled, encouragingly at the older girl. She was still slightly bashful, but there was now a glimmer of resolve underneath all that shyness.

Orihime gulped down most of nerves as best as she could. She swallowed the eggs she was eating. Blushing red, she spoke, albeit demurely. "Uh, Eddie, Al?"

"Yeah?"

"What is it, Orihime?"

The brothers' curious gazes were upon her, making her even more nervous. Although, Nina's happy and uplifting grin was enough to cheer her on.

"I-I wanted to say sorry," she finally apologized, nibbling shyly on her bottom lip.

Ed rose a brow, confused. "Sorry? What are you sorry about?"

She sheepishly rolled her eggs with her fork. "For last night. For the way I acted it. It-it wasn't right," she admitted, feeling ashamed about her actions.

"Is that all?" Ed brushed it off the incident as if it was no big deal. "Don't worry about it."

"But I…! But I hit you, Eddie!" the auburn haired cried, tearfully. "I shouldn't have done that. It was wrong. I'm sorry!"

Edward's face softened. He hated seeing her tears. "Like I said, don't worry about it," he spoke in an uncharacteristic gentle tone. "It's not your fault, Orihime. You were scared. We all were. Those illusions or whatever they are messed with our minds. You shouldn't feel guilty, okay? So, Orihime, stop crying, alright?"

Astounded, gray eyes stared at him, almost speechless. She eyed Alphonse, wondering if he was just as forgiving of her actions as his brother.

Al nodded in agreement. "Brother's right, Orihime," he kindly reassured her. "We're not taking anything you did personally. We know you didn't mean it."

The auburn haired girl was amazed at the brothers' kindness. She smiled, happily, wiping away the stray tears. Her downhearted spirits were being lifted. "Thank you, guys," she whispered, gratefully.

She laughed, feeling so much better now. All her nervousness and anxiety were blown away. Gone like the wind. She addressed Ed once again, staring at him with beaming, gray eyes and a modest smile. His cheeks tinted a slight pink color, much to her confusion, but she ignored it. "What do you want to eat, Eddie?" she asked, politely.

"Huh?" the aforementioned alchemist was puzzled by the question.

Strangely, the healer felt her face beginning to heat up. She was starting to feel nervous, but for a different reason. She licked her suddenly dried lips. "Um, is there anything you like to eat?" she asked once more, timorous. "I'll make anything you want as a thank you. I'll cook whatever you want. Just name it."

Ed's eyes widened at that. She wanted to cook him anything he wanted? A meal just for him? He was elated, and his heart jumped for joy. He strongly resisted to shout in gleeful triumphant and ecstatic pleasure. He contemplated, deeply on this. All of Orihime's were so good and delicious. He greatly enjoyed all her meals. Sadly, he could only choose one. Just one. This decision should not be taken lightly.

There were so many choices to pick from. However, if he had dim it down to his top three favorites, his choices were between a few slices of pizza, some curry, or that honey rice omelette she made that one time. To him, they were the best of the best. Though, as tough as the decision was, if he were to pick his top favorite, it had to be the curry. It was just something about the uniqueness of it, the way it screamed 'Orihime', and represented her homeland that spoke to him. Because of that, and it's mind numbing deliciousness. Just thinking about enjoying it once again made his mouth water. It was so appetizing, so inviting.

It was settled. Curry it is!

Edward glanced at Orihime with an excited and happy glint in his golden eyes. "Curry!" he practically exclaimed in eagerness. He was like a child joyously declaring to their parents about what they wanted for Christmas. "I want some curry! That curry you made last time was so great. I want it again!"

The auburn haired beamed, brightly, happy that Ed was so happy. She turned to address Alphonse. "I don't know what I can do for you, Al," she said, apologetically. "I'm not a mechanic like Winry, so I don't know much about machinery."

Al waved his hand in front of his helmet head, feeling sheepish. "That's okay, Orihime. There's no need for you to do anything."

She shook her head in disagreement. "I can still cook for," she declared, resolutely. "Of course, once you get your body back. When that time comes, I'll make you anything you want."

The suit of armor brightened at that. "Really?" The joy and excitement in his childlike, hollow tone did not go unnoticed. It made him sound younger than he really was.

"Yes, really!" she grinned. "I'll make you anything you want. Just name it! We're going to have a feast, so prepare yourself!"

The younger Elric feverishly bobbed his head, enthusiastic for the future. Now, he had yet another reason to regain his body as quickly as possible.

With everyone's anxiety and uneasiness having completely vanished, the four of them were able to enjoy a nice, lighthearted, and cheerful breakfast, happily chattering away.

After much chatting, Al was eventually able to convince Ed to tell them what happened. When they all them woke up from their nightmarish slumber, why was he the only one missing? Of course, their elder Elric was reluctant at first, his face turning as red as cherry for some strange reason.

Nina listened, intently as Big Brother Ed recounted his tale. He was speaking in such an uncertain and embarrassed tone as if he was unsure on how much he should reveal to them. His face was deeply flushed, and he was awkward and flustered throughout his story. On some parts, he would completely shut down, too abashed to speak. However, the pig tailed girl witnessed him sneaking shy glances at Big Sis Ori whenever the certain parts he purposefully omitted from his story came up.

Big brother relaxed, his previous embarrassed expression now replaced with a disgusted, annoyed scowl. He talked about how he had to team up a lady named Eria. It was obvious he didn't like her much, but he set aside his anger and grudge to take down the bad woman, Amelia. After a somewhat heated argument because Eria did something Big Brother Ed greatly disapproved of, Ed heard Orihime's terrified scream that he rushed back to them. And that's where his little adventure ends.

"Oh, throughout the entire time we were fighting that...pervert," Edward spat with so much disgust and venom. "She kept mentioning something about Hollows."

Someone gasped, loudly in sheer horror and appalled. When all eyes landed on her with various expressions of shock and surprise. She was the one who gasped. In response, she blushed in embarrassment at her blunder. Big sis was the only one who was staring at her. Her gray eyes were completely transfixed on Ed, bug eyed and her jaw dropped. Her expression was a horrified mixture of alarmed dismay, uneasy dread, and unnerving fear. Fear for Ed. Fear for what the future thanks to this new, hazardous development.

Thankfully, the brothers' eyes were only fixed on her, effectively ignorant of the healer's stunned and guilt ridden face.

But… Uh, oh! She messed up! Nina knew she messed up.

Feeling upset and guilty, Nina's blue eyes gazed at Orihime, silently asking for help. Her gray eyes were still stunned with shock and horror as big sis stared at Big Brother Ed. Finally, she recovered.

"Did something happen to you, Nina?" Orihime asked her, quickly redirecting the topic. "Are you still scared about what happened to you?"

The pig tailed girl was thankful for the change in subject. She could sense genuine concern in her big sis's voice. She smiled in both gratitude and pain. Grateful for Orihime's help and pain because her mind was now drifting back to the true tragedy that befall her family because of her evil father.

"I'm fine, big sis," Nina smiled, sadly. "It was really horrifying, but I'm doing better."

Edward, however, found the sudden change in topic a little bit suspicious. He doesn't know why. It was just a gut feeling. Maybe it was how uncannily familiar the situation was. Or how he could loosely recognize the habitual way Orihime avoids a subject she doesn't want to get into.

His golden eyes watched her as she ate away at her eggs benedict. Was he just being paranoid? She seemed pretty normal. He was glad she was returning back to her cheery self. He resisted the urge to smile at her when he caught Al's amused gaze.

They spent the rest of their breakfast eating and happily chatting away. It was then that Ed gasped in alarm when he noticed the clock. It was ten forty five, meaning they have fifteen minutes before their train arrives. "Oh crap!" he shouted, startling the others. "Our train would be here soon."

He hurriedly stuffed the rest his meal down his gullet. Orihime and Nina followed his example, but in a much more graceful way. When the blond alchemist's hand accidentally brushed against Orihime's...something rather odd happened. Something that left him feeling utterly confused and strangely hurt. She stepped away from him, hastily retracted her hand away from him as if it was a mountain of fire ants crawling onto her skin, and her entire body tensed up a bit. It was just for a second, so he barely noticed. He wondered if it was imagination or not as he eyed her putting her tray into the trash bin.

Did she…? Did she just flinch?

The foursome made it just in time for the train. They weren't too many people on the train, so they managed to find a bench that could fit all of them. Edward, Orihime, Nina were all panting and breathing, heavily. They literally ran all the way from the hotel's dining room to the train station, which was about five to seven miles, tops.

"Good," Ed huffed, plopping down on the side of the bench near the window. Al took his place next to him, Orihime at his opposite, and Nina next to her. "We made it in time."

Orihime smiled and nodded in agreement. She chose the seat by the window, so she could enjoy the scenery. She was still a bit shaken up. She doesn't know why she reacted somewhat negatively when Edward's hand brushed against hers. She just...for a second there...her mind just went blank. All her senses were loss for half a second. She couldn't see anything. She couldn't hear anything. She could stare, mindlessly at the white void of his hand. Then, all the sudden, she felt the sensation of spiders crawling on the skin of her hand. All at once, she felt nauseated and sick to her stomach. She could only think about stepping away to regain her breathing because it felt like she lost all air in her lungs.

The ginger haired still doesn't know why she behaved she did. She wondered if she hurt Ed's feelings. Did he notice? If he didn't, then that was good. She could pretend that nothing happened. Maybe she was still on unnervingly alert and highly distressed from the nightmarish illusions. She was aware that nightmares don't just go away overnight. It would take a few days for her to unwind from all the stress and personal horror. Hopefully. That's why she wanted to sit by the window. Viewing the beautiful scenery go by has always refreshing to her.

Ed, himself, was carefully eyeing the auburn haired healer. She appears to be normal, blissfully staring out the window with a happy expression on her face. The serene, peaceful smile plastered on her countenance relieved him from any worry. Maybe what happened earlier was just his imagination. The way she winced was almost as if she was afraid of him. Guess, he was wrong.

Although…

(FLASHBACK)

"Orihime?" He stepped closer to her, only to have her flinch and scream. She was so afraid and upset. He had never seen her this terrified. He crouched down until he was at eye level with her. "Orihime…" He tried reaching out for her, but she winced and swiped at his hand as if it was some revolting insect she doesn't want anywhere near her.

He could feel a stinging pain in his heart. The way she looked at him… The fear… The unspeakable fright… It pained him in ways he never imagined. She was terrified. Terrified of him. But… But she wasn't looking at him. Her eyes were glazed over as if she couldn't see him.

"I can make Orihime taste your suffering."

Ed inwardly gritted his teeth. Amelia's voice was echoing around him like a poisonous vice. This was his fault. Orihime was suffering because of him. If only he had defeated Amelia sooner.

He tried crawling up to her. Her immediate response was to shriek and swipe at him, frantically. Her hand connected with the right side of his face, leaving a big, red imprint there. It stung, but the sting in his heart was ten times worse.

That didn't stop him though. Not when Orihime was in so much agony and pain.

Ed used her state of momentary shock to grab her wrist and pulled her into his chest, holding her tight. He could feel how badly her body was shaking under his grasp. Her breathing was fast and labored, and she was dripping with sweat. He stayed silent, patting her head, soothingly.

After a few moments, Orihime finally spoke, her voice squeaky and still frightened. "Eddie? Is that you?"

"Yes, Orihime, it's me," Ed whispered in her ear, reassuringly.

"I-I-I recognize your scent." She lifted her head away from him, only to gasp at the red mark on his face. She slowly touched it, tenderly, her fingertips lightly tracing the mark. "Did I…? Did I do this? Did I hurt you?" she mumbled, her soft voice filled with overwhelming guilt and horror at her own actions.

"It's okay. Don't worry about it," he replied, trying to ease her pain and guilt.

That only caused Orihime's face to scrunch up in . She buried her face in his chest, sobbing uncontrollably, her hands clenching onto him for dear life. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry," she muttered into his shirt in an apologetic mantra. Hoping that every 'sorry' would alleviate her regret and shame.

Edward wrapped his arms around her, tightening his embrace. Her tears smearing his shirt, making it wet, but that didn't matter. It pained him. It pained him that all he could do was hold her until she calmed down. She was crying so much. Her body was trembling so much. She was so fragile and vulnerable like a porcelain doll that's been broken. His fingers combed through her auburn locks, trying his best to comfort her because that's all he could offer her right now. Just warmth and comfort.

"Orihime would never love you. You would never have her heart."

That may be true… But even so… Even so… Ed knew where his feelings stand, and that would never change. All he wanted to do… All he needed to do was protect her. Protect Orihime and her beautiful smile.

That's all there is to it.

(END OF FLASHBACK)

He can't stop worrying about her, okay? He'd never seen her have total breakdown like that. She didn't even recognize any of them until he managed to calm her down somewhat. He was...concerned. No, concern wasn't the right word. He was anxious. Anxious if Orihime was still troubled about yesterday. She seemed fine, but who knows?

The blond alchemist opened his mouth. "Orihime," he called her, softly.

Gray eyes leisurely drifted in his direction. "Huh? What is it, Eddie?" she asked.

He gazed at her with worry and concern, licking his suddenly dry lips. "You know… If you're troubled, you can always talk to me, right? I'm always here to listen," he said, sincerely. His eyes stayed fixated on her, searching for the slightest change in expressions. He was somewhat disquieted, wondering if she might brush him off.

He witnessed a flash of pain and anguish in her orbs until it dissipated into a feeling of appreciation. So, she was still terribly bothered by the illusion. That caused him to feel even more guilty. If only he defeated Amelia sooner, then Orihime wouldn't be suffering.

The auburn haired smiled at him, feeling thankful for his concern for her wellbeing. "Thank you, Eddie. I'll keep that in mind," she thanked him, warmly. "But, truthfully, I am feeling a bit tired. All that running worn me out. I'm going to take a quick nap," she finished, tiredly, a small yawn escaping from her.

Ed slightly grinned at her, watching as her eyelids slowly fluttered closed. Once they did, his grin turned into a small frown. He doesn't know how, but...but somehow he knew that smile was fake. And the fact that her smile was fake to give him false reassurance just caused his unease to grow.

Though...she did his advice. Right? She knows he would always be there for her, right? If she needed someone to talk to, he'd be there. If she needed a shoulder to cry on, he'd be there. If she just wanted company, he'd be there. He would do anything for her. She understands that, right? He doesn't know if he would be capable of solving all her problems, but he'd always be by her side for warmth and comfort.

His grin returned when he eyed the witness the peaceful expression on beautiful face, and hearing the cute, tiny snores escaping from her. Her pretty, auburn hair cascading around her head and shoulders. She looked like an angel flown down from heaven. So beautiful and tranquil.

He then felt his face heat. Oh, god. What's wrong with him? He's acting like a romantic, hopeless fool now. He couldn't help it though. Watching her sleep caused his heart to beat faster and butterflies to flutter in his stomach. But the serene look on her face means she was untroubled and was enjoying her nap. She was so cute when she's sleeping. Plus, no nightmares to speak of. That was good.

His eyes drifted to the rosy colored rose stud earrings, shining between strands of auburn hair. He always felt the sense of elated happiness and joyful pride every time he eyed the jewelry he bought for her. It made him so blissful thrilled to see her wearing them. And this feeling of delightful euphoria would never go away.

"You know, brother," Al said, grabbing Ed's attention. "We never stopped by to meet Lieutenant Colonel Hughes. We haven't told him about Greed and his group.

Golden eyes widened in realization. "Let's stop at the hotel first, then head directly to Hughes's house. We need to tell him and Major Armstrong about what happened here. About Amelia and Eria's mention of Hollows," he frowned, the seriousness of tone vibrated between the four...well, three of them.

Nina stiffened at the mention of those monsters. Those same creatures that killed her ghostly friend, Sarah, and almost killed her. If it wasn't for big sis's timely rescue, she would've been… She shook her head. Now's not the time to regret the past. She could already feel her eyes burning, but she tried her best to keep her tears at bay. She doesn't want to cause big brothers any concern. She wouldn't even know where to begin explaining herself to them.

"Hollows?" Al questioned, worriedly. "What do you think that means? Do you think Amelia was another mod soul, or that she had some sort of connection to them or the Homunculi?"

Ed hummed, frowning, reflectively. "I know for sure Amelia wasn't a mod soul. Didn't see the green pill. But I'm not totally convinced about the bullcrap of her being centuries of years old. If she were a homunculus, sure. But Amelia was just a human with very strange, alchemical powers."

"Maybe she had a Philosopher's Stone," Al suggested. "Maybe she used the power of the stone give herself immortality. I mean, doesn't Ling want to use the stone for the same reason? To gain immortality? With the stone's power, it's possible."

An irritable scowl made its way on Edward's face. He grunted in displeasure, crossing his arms. "Urgh! Don't remind me of that idiotic Xingese prince, Al." He was obvious that he still held a bit of anger towards the dark haired prince. Why? Because not only is he an annoying foreigner, but he also kissed Orihime! Sure, it wasn't on the lips or anything. It was only a chaste kiss placed on the back of her hand. But still! He put his lips on her!

Alphonse rose a nonexistent eyebrow. "Brother, what's wrong this time?" he asked in exasperation.

"Nothing's wrong, Al!" he snapped.

The suit of armor stared at his older brother, unconvinced. Ed was unusually grumpy. As soon as Ling's name was mentioned, he swiftly became irritated and vexed. He was well aware he doesn't like the prince. Ed wasn't the type to be nice to strangers. It takes a while for him to warm up to people. But this wasn't simple annoyance like it is most of the time. It's downright displeasure. A great sense of displeasure and hidden disdainful fury.

The younger Elric wondered what the prince did to offend his brother and earn his intense ire, besides picking on him. He wracked his brain through their first encounter with Ling. "Brother… Are you angry because Ling flirted with Orihime?" Al blurted out. There was a smug hint of amusement underneath his feigned innocent tone.

The blond alchemist entire face turned a bright red in anger and embarrassed. Several tick marks formed on his head. "I AM NOT PISSED BECAUSE THAT…THAT BASTARD HAD THE NERVE, THE ARROGANCE, TO FLIRT WITH ORIHIME!" he practically blew up, vehemently, his golden eyes crazed, his lips turned into a vicious snarl, and he was almost foaming at the mouth.

Al backed up from his rabid brother in discomfort. Okay… He would never bring up that ever again. Was it just him or was Ed more crazily jealous than ever? What kind of illusion did his brother suffer from to bring out this...inner, green eyed beast within? He also blushed in embarrassment when the nearby passengers openly stared them due to Ed's enraged outburst.

Ed took large gulps of air to calm himself down, thinking, hectically of happy thoughts. He huffed before somewhat angrily leaning against his chair.

Nina was glancing, sadly at her lap. Her memories was still with images of that terrifying illusion. She was so confused and so sad. Was that chimera really her mother? Was her father really capable of doing something so horrible? She never felt so betrayed before. Her father was the only family member she had left. He was her idol. Her role model. And he betrayed her so easily, using her for his sick experiments. With a heavy heart, she wondered...did he ever loved her? Or was she just a tool of convenience to use when the time was right?

She twisted her hand into her dress. She just...wanted answers.

"Big Brother Ed. Big Brother Al," she muttered, but it was loud enough to catch the boys' attentions. She swallowed the lump in her throat. Taking a deep breath and steeled herself. If she wanted answers, she had to be brave and forge head on just like big sis when she fights those monsters. This is not the time to hesitate. "Where's daddy?"

The question earned an immediate response from the brothers. They stiffened in their seats, producing an aura of pity and sympathy. She didn't like that. She didn't like the way they were taking pity on her. She clenched her dress, tighter. She wasn't a baby anymore! She was a big girl!

The pig tailed girl gazed at Ed and Al, her blue eyes gleaming with fierce determination. "Where's daddy?" she repeated, more sharply.

Al was the first to speak up. "Nina," he said, unsure of how to answer her. "Your father… He's…"

"You father is in timeout," Ed finished for him, staring, intently at the little girl with sympathetic, golden orbs. He faked a grin. "Didn't we tell you that before? Don't worry, your father won't do anything bad to you ever ag-"

"You're lying!" Nina loudly cut him off, her outburst startling the two boys. She furiously shook her head. "Please, big brothers," she said, pleadingly. "I know you're lying to me. Daddy is not in 'timeout'." She stared down at her lap, her voice becoming sad and low. "I don't remember all that's happened. My mind was still a little fuzzy. I remember feeling really weird. My whole body was in pain, so much pain I couldn't think straight. But I recall my father was there, and…" She pointed at Ed. "You were there, Big Brother Ed! You were hitting daddy!"

Ed almost let out a small gasp of surprise, his eyes wide with guilt and shock.

Nina twisted her finger in Al's direction. "And you there, too, Big Brother Al! I'm not sure what you were doing, but I remember your metal body standing there."

Al made an inaudible gasp of consternation.

Her finger lastly pointed at the snoozing Orihime. "And big sis was there as well!" She gazed back at the brothers with sorrowful, begging eyes. "Please, big brothers! Don't lie to me anymore! Tell me the truth! What happened to my father? What happened to my mother? Please! Tell me!"

The Elric brothers gazed at each other, helplessly, having a silent debate. How could they possibly tell Nina the truth? She was too young to know. She was just a child. They were hoping to tell her when she was a little older.

However, the look on Nina's face… They could discern how serious she was. She was desperate for answers, and she was stubborn. She won't take 'no' for an answer.

"Nina," Ed began, feeling his throat tightened. He knew there was no point in keeping it a secret any longer. He had a pretty good idea of what her dark illusion was now. Shou Tucker turning her into a chimera. He was filled with guilt over the heinous ordeal, and he was useless in doing anything to help her. "You father…" His tone turned low and distressful. "Your father is dead. He was killed by a man named Scar."

"Brother!" Al shouted in shock. He was horrified that his brother was informing her of such tragic news. Isn't she too young? They should wait!

Nina, on the other hand, remained deathly silent, fully intent on just listening.

The elder Elric gave his younger brother a melancholic look, which he slowly conceded to. When dolefully glanced back at the brown haired girl and continued. "Nina, would you promise to listen to everything I have to say?"

He received a solemn nod as a response, a fluid of different emotions flooded him. Guilt, remorse, sorrow, sympathy… He took a deep breath, trying to increase his mental fortitude. He was prepared for Nina to breakdown into a river of grief stricken tears after he was done.

"Nina," Ed spoke, firmly. "Your father, Shou Tucker, was a very bad man. He was doing something awful, something terrible with alchemy. Something an alchemist should never do. He was experimenting with humans! He was toying with people's lives!" he snarled, furiously, his blood boiling. Just being reminded of that man sends him into a frenzy. Though, he strongly willed himself to calm down. For Nina's sake. "He used his wife, your mother, Nina, to become a State Alchemist, and he used you in his sick, twisted experiments to try to keep it. Fortunately, he failed. Orihime managed to save. Eventually, Scar killed him." He swallowed another woeful lump. "I'm sorry, Nina. Your mom and dad… They're dead."

After Ed finished, the brothers waited for Nina's response with bated breath. Anxiety hitting them as they anxiously watched her.

Nina took several moments to process the tragic, unforgiving news of her family. So… She really was an orphan. She lost her mom...her dad… She had no relatives… She had no one left.

Although, some reason...some reason she wasn't sad. No sense of grief or misery or loss filled her. She was all alone, and yet, somehow...she felt content. Content and satisfied that she finally gather the full story of the destruction of her family. She wondered why she couldn't shed a single tear? Was it because she dealt with so much suffering and tragedy that she was just used to it at this point? Was it because her eyes were already dried from last night? Or was it because she didn't have an ounce of love for her father anymore? She still loved her late mother, dearly, but her father was a bad, bad man. He betrayed her and tried to kill her. Why should she cry for him?

No. No, it wasn't any of that. It was because, even though her parents were gone, she wasn't lonely. She still had some resemblance of a family. She had Big Sis Ori, Big Brother Ed, Big Brother Al, Big Sis Winry, Nina, Ms. Gracia, and Alexander, too. She was content and happy.

To Ed's and Al's astonishment and stupefaction, a bright smile graced the pig tailed girl's lips.

"Thank you, Big Brother Ed, Big Brother Al," she slightly chirped, sincerely. "Thank you for telling me the truth."

"Nina," Al gaped, stunned and uncertain how to approach her. "Are you sure you're okay?"

She happily nodded her head. "I'm fine, Big Brother Al. You know, I'm not sad or lonely. You know why? Because I have you and Big Brother Ed and Big Sis Ori and the Hughes family and Winry. I don't feel sad because I have my friends. Now, I can finally move forward," she beamed, cheerful.

A sense of relief washed over the brothers. All this time they were worried for nothing. They had to wonder though, when did Nina become so strong and mature?

Nina hummed to herself, eyes gazing around the train. Confusion struck her when her gaze landed black haired boy staring at her with icy blue eyes. There was something about him that appeared different from everyone else. Something strange and mysterious. He seemed to just a couple of years older than her, and he was alone. He was sitting at a bench by himself. There was no mother or father with him. Why? Wasn't he lonely by himself?

The boy's orbs narrowed, and she could see the underlying contempt and resentment presented within them. There was so much hatred and bitterness, it made her really sad. He snarled at her, noticing she was staring and turned his head away.

Nina pouted, feeling conflicted, confused, a vague sense of sympathy. What's up with that boy? Why was he so sad? And angry? And bitter? But, most of all, why was he looking over this way? Were they being too loud? The thought caused a hint of embarrassment to creep up on her cheeks.

"What's wrong, Nina?" Big Brother Ed's concerned voice caught her attention. "What are you looking at?" He turned, curiously eyeing the general area that piqued her interest.

The pig tailed girl pondered for a bit. Would it be okay to tell big brother about that strange boy? Though, it looked like the boy wanted to be alone, he didn't take kindly to strangers. It wouldn't be right to bother him.

In the end, she just smiled. "No," she said, shaking her head.

Ed just rose a brow and Al hummed, but they thought nothing of it as the quietly enjoyed the rest of the train ride.

Orihime was having a pleasant dream. She barely got any sleep last night. She had a restless, dreamless sleep last night. But...this time...being surrounded by her friends and made it easier to sleep with her fears or anxiety getting the best of her.

Her face scrunched up confusion when she heard a voice calling out to her. She was happily studying for test until saw the room shaking.

"What's going on?" she asked no one, her body already tensing for a fight. What if it was a Hollow? The walls and floors around began to turn into a vacant, white color. An extreme essence of panic flooded her.

The voice grew louder, and the shaking grew fiercer. She curled up into a corner, pressing her hands against her ears. She wanted it to stop! Whoever's calling her, just leave her alone! She was already aware that nothing but sneers and contempt awaited her. Her eyes were already burning with tears. Just stop! Leave her alone! Just...leave her alone… Please!

"Orihime! Orihime, wake up!"

Gray eyes sprang up with a jolt. "Huh? What?" Her orbs were wide, frantically glancing around. When her eyes landed on a surprised and somewhat guilty Edward, she relaxed. Oh. It was...just a dream. She placed a hand upon her chest, feeling her rapidly beating heart, and willing it down in its rhythm.

"I'm sorry for waking you up, Orihime," he said, feeling a little bad for disturbing her nap. The way she woke up was...unusual. She seemed almost ready to jump out of her skin. Was she having a nightmare? But...it didn't look like it. She appeared to be so peaceful as she slept. He stared down the aisle to see Al and Nina waiting for them. "We need to get going, Orihime," he told her.

"Wha? We-we're already here?" Orihime mumbled, groggily, tiredly rubbing her eyes.

"Yep! We're already back in Central. Way take a snooze throughout the whole train ride, sleepyhead," he slightly grinned at her, hoping his cheeky attitude would humor her and get her to relax a little more. Despite the sleepiness, her body seemed way too tense for his liking. He gestured for his brother and the little girl to go on ahead.

"Oh?" She seemed to take a moment to process everything. After she finally did, her eyes widened in realization, and her cheeks were dusted a light pink color. "Oh! Sorry to keep you waiting, Eddie!" she exclaimed, apologetically.

Ed's lips tilted downward. He didn't mean to make her upset. "No, don't be upset, Orihime. It's okay," he gently reassured her. He held his hand out for her to take, which she did after seconds of wide eyed hesitation. A hint of hurt and sadness crossed her heart when he saw the flash of fear in her gray orbs as she stared at his hand before it swiftly vanished, and she took with a shy smile and modest blush on her face.

He ignored the brief moment of pain that was being overshadowed by the jolts of pleasure coursing through his flesh hand. His own face heating up. He tenderly helped her out the chair, and small wave of disappointment crashing against him when she released her hand afterwards.

"Uh, thanks," she smiled, wiping out imaginary dust from her clothes. She grabbed her pink bag, and secured it behind her. "Should get going?"

Ed snapped out of it. "Right!" He led her off the train, and onto the platform where Al and Nina were waiting for them.

"What took you guys so long? Brother, I know you want some alone time, but the train isn't the best place," Alphonse teased.

"Shut up, Al," Edward hissed. He hauled the suitcase over his shoulder. "Let's just head over to Hughes's house," he declared.

"What about your report to the colonel?" Al questioned, already blowing out a tired sigh because he readily foresaw the answer to his question. He almost mentally berated himself for asking in the first place.

Ed scoffed. "I'll give him my report later," he dismissed with a casual wave.

"Won't that get you in trouble, Eddie?" Orihime asked, auburn brows furrowed together in worry and confusion. She exactly sure how military life works, protocol and all that. All she garnered were experiences working and observing the Soul Reapers and how they operate. The stricter captains such as Captain Kuichiki and Captain Soifon require their squads to report immediately after a mission. Other captains are just more laidback or don't care, and just do it because the head captain would have their heads, if they didn't have routine reports turned in on time.

The blond alchemist waved her, offering her an impish smirk. "It's nothing to fret over, Orihime. Colonel Bastard can take my report and shove it up his ass for all I care."

"Eddie!" she gasped in astonishment. "You can't do that!" she chastised him. "Isn't that breaking protocol?"

"I told you, don't worry about it. I'll do it right after," he replied, simply. He started walking with his younger brother and female friends following after him.

She merely nodded her head, just letting Ed do his own thing. After all, she doesn't understand the complications of working in the military, except being offered missions and being called during national crisis or emergencies. So, who was she to lecture him?

Now that she thinks about it, she had only met him once. What was his name? Colonel Roy Mustang, right? "You know, I only met Mr. Mustang once," she voiced out.

Ed blinked, golden orbs gazing at her with confusion.

"That's right," Alphonse piped in. "You've only met Colonel Mustang and Lieutenant Hawkeye once. When Ed was assigned to be your bodyguard, and that was way back in East City."

"Huh? It's really been that long?" Edward hummed, thoughtfully.

"Mmhmm! That's when it all started. When we became a team," Orihime added, smiling, fondly at the memory.

"Don't forget about me!" Nina pouted. "Am I in the team, too?"

The ginger haired girl giggled. "We won't forget about you, Nina. You're the cutest part of our team," she assured the little girl, beaming, sweetly at her. She could hear the brothers chuckling. She held out her hand for her to take, which the pig tailed girl took, giggling, happily.

The healer glanced over at the brothers. "I never asked this before, but what's Mr. Mustang like?" she asked, curiously.

While Al cranked his head in consideration, Ed's face sported deep scowl, a strange look glinted in his golden eyes.

"Why do you want to know about the bastard?" he questioned her, sending her a peculiar fierce look. Was it just her, or was that irritation laced with an odd emotion in his tone?

Suddenly, she felt a little self conscious. Why? It's not like she was doing anything wrong by asking. But it felt like she was. Maybe it wasn't her he was angry, but Mr. Mustang. Perhaps, Ed doesn't have a good relationship with his boss. It isn't uncommon in the working world where a boss and their employees don't exactly see eye to eye.

"Well, you work for him, right?" she responded, hesitantly, nibbling on her bottom lip. "I just want to know what's he like. You don't have to tell me, if it upsets you. I'm just curious," she hurriedly said, dejectedly.

The suit of armor roughly nudged his older brother for his blatant rudeness. Ed produced a small yelp of pain, shooting his armored brother a glare, tenderly rubbing his right side. Al returned his glare with a pointed look.

The blond alchemist sighed, regretfully. Yes, he already knew he was being an ass for snapping at Orihime, and making her sad. Al doesn't need to elbow him so harshly to get his point across. He shouldn't let his jealousy get to him. But when it comes to Orihime, he couldn't help it. He becomes so easily jealous and possessive. He needed to learn how to control himself around her.

"The colonel," he started, causing the healer to glance over at him in cautious wonder. "The colonel is a...smug bastard," he growled. "He's a pompous asshole who gives me no damn respect. All he cares about is his promotion, and moving up in the world. Oh, and he's a womanizer, so watch out, Orihime," he warned her.

The auburn haired girl pressed her lips into a thin line and furrowed her brows. "Sounds like Mr. Mustang is a very busy man."

The blond boy snorted. "'Busy'? If you can call it that. Don't go giving him too much credit. And you don't have to keep calling him 'Mr. Mustang'. Just refer to him as 'Colonel Mustang' or the 'colonel' is fine," he frowned. He didn't like the way she kept calling him 'Mr. Mustang'. It sounded too familiar, and it greatly bothered him.

"Brother, you shouldn't give Orihime the wrong idea about the colonel," Alphonse interjected. "The colonel has done a lot for us as well. He's always there when we need it most."

The elder Elric shrugged. "Yeah, I guess. He was the one who presented me with the opportunity to become a State Alchemist," he admitted, a mixture of coarse gratitude and begrudging respect for the guy.

Orihime smiled, intrigued by the conversation. "What about that lady? The one that always with him? I forget her… Ms. Hawkeye, right?"

"Lieutenant Hawkeye," Ed corrected her. A sheepish blush stained her cheeks. "She's the colonel's bodyguard and secretary. The lieutenant…" He tapped his chin, ponderingly. "Well, she's cool. She's the one who keeps the bastard in line. I don't know much about the lieutenant. She is always sticking close to the colonel. She may be cold and stoic, but she has a rarely seen sweet side, I guess. I know she got her nickname the 'Hawk's Eye' from her sharpshooter skills during the war."

The ginger haired girl nodded, happily. "I wonder if they liked the macarons I gave them last time? Should I make some more snacks?"

Ed tsked. "You don't need to make that bastard anything. But it's okay, if you want to make some snacks. You know… For me," he said, hopefully sheepish, a greedy glint in his golden orbs..

Orihime giggled. "Sure."

Al sighed, good naturedly. "Brother, you are so hopeless."

"Me too! I'm getting hungry!" Nina piped in.

The older girl smiled down at her. "Sure! Once we get back to the hotel, I'll get started on making some sweet-"

What happened next, happened in flash. It was faster than the eye can see. Nobody could fathom what just transpired. They couldn't process it, too flabbergasted and nonplussed. First came Orihime's frightening scream. Next a loud crash. All of that followed lastly by a grown man's pained moaning and groaning. He was sprawled half haphazardly on the concrete floor, holding his aching back.

The man was of bulky build. Not bulky as if he was strong looking, bulky because he was kind of hefty, fat. He had on a white, spotless suit. Well, it used to be spotless, but there was some dirt on it and it was wrinkled in some places from being thrown by a girl tinier than him. He had pale skin, though, his eye color remained unknown thanks to them being screwed shut in pain. He seemed to be in his mid thirties with short, dirty blond hair and a clean shaven chin.

Edward gazed drifted towards Orihime's shaking form. Her hands were clenched, tightly to her chest. She was staring at the man on the ground with paralyzing fearful, gray eyes. She was looking at him as if he was death personified. Her breathing was heavy and labored, coming out in rapid, short breaths. Drops of sweat began to crease her forehead.

Oh, no! She was hyperventilating!

Edward's protective instincts rising, snapping him out of his stupor. He swiftly made his over to Orihime, ignoring the injured man on the ground and the noisy pedestrians coming over to see what the commotion was about.

"Orihime, are you alright?" he asked, voice full of her worry.

She didn't give an impression that she heard him, her whole body still trembling, and getting worse the more people approached them. Her gray orbs were blank, dazed, and terrified. Tears pricked at the corner of her eyelids. She mumbling to herself, chanting, petrifyingly blinding state. He had to strain his ears to listen to what she was saying.

"...White. White… It's white…"

At that instant, the blond alchemist understood everything. He understood why she flinched when his hand brushed against hers that morning. He understood why she felt slightly uncomfortable when he offered his hand to help her. And he understood why she screamed and, unexpectedly and uncharacteristically, flipped the man over, seemingly with provocation. They all had one thing in common.

They were all wearing white. His gloves and the man's suit...they were both white. She hated it. She hated the color white.

He knew he should be relieved. He should be relieved that she didn't find him somewhat revolting. Because that is what he thought at first when she slightly scared and hesitate to touch his hand. But his heart still ached. It ached for a different reason. It ached for her. It pains him to see her suffering. So, she hasn't gotten over nightmarish illusion, after all.

Ed quickly removed his gloves without a second thought, knowing they would just frighten her more. Normally, he would be a little self conscious. Having his automail completely exposed under the illuminating street lights for all to see his shiny, metal prosthetic. He vaguely people observe people openly stare at his right hand, and hear their comments. However, he ignored them. Tending to Orihime was more important.

He removed his red coat, and gently draped it over her head, hoping to block out her peripheral vision with it. He remembered that she recognized his scent last time, and was able to calm down from her funk because of that. He was hoping that having his coat would give her the same level of comfort. He delivered a harsh glare to the passerbyers, silently conveying to them to fuck off. There was nothing to see. Move along and get on with their damn lives.

Alphonse understanding what his brother was aiming at began to shoo the crowd away. The braver ones who stuck around despite Ed's glare, not the least bit frightened because of his short stature, immediately scurried away in fear and dread in the face of an intimidating, imposing, seven foot tall suit of armor. Nina just gazed, worriedly between her friends and the dispersing crowd.

Witnessing her right hand slowly reach out to grip his coat, and her shaking ceasing somewhat, Edward grinned, softly. He tenderly held her other hand within his flesh one. He could feel how badly her hand was shaking and the way her muscles tensed.

He gently squeezed her hand. "It's okay, Orihime. I'm here," he gently reassured her, praying that his tone would soothe here. "I won't let anyone hurt you. I promise."

A few seconds later, the dimness of her eyes began to brighten. Her hand stopped trembling, but they were still slightly tensed as they squeezed his back for reassurance. She nodded her head, tentatively. Those actions alone brought a fresh grin to Ed's countenance. At least, she knows that she could rely on him, if anything bad happens. He would always be there for her. Be at her side.

"Hey!" the blond man on the ground yelled, angrily. The pain on his back must have subsided enough for him to speak. He glared, furiously at Orihime. "What the hell is wrong with you? I accidentally bump you, and you flip me over like that?" He climbed up to his feet, dark green eyes filled with indignation. Orihime shamefully and fearfully buried her face behind Ed's back. The blond alchemist glared at the annoying man, standing, protectively in front of the healer. "Urgh!" he groaned in frustration, eyeing his ruined suit. "Look at my suit! It's ruined! How are you going to pay for this?"

"Um, I'm sorry, sir," the auburn haired girl squeaked out, apologetically.

"'Sorry'? Well, 'sorry' isn't going to cut it. It takes more than a simple apology to repay me for my ruined suit."

Edward scowled in displeasure, an overwhelming sense of disgust, possessiveness, and protectiveness raging within him like a violent tsunami. He could feel his blood boiling and his jealousy raising with the way the man was leering at her, so obviously checking her out. And the lecherous grin that graced his lips just caused him to growl, irritably and scornfully under his breath. His teeth was gnashing together so hard, they might crack under pressure. It was taking every ounce of his willpower not to just throttle the guy for the way he was staring at Orihime like she was a piece of meat. Damn, stinking pervert!

The auburn haired girl shifted uncomfortably behind him. So, even she wasn't oblivious to the repulsive and greedy looks the man was giving her?

"That's so terrible about your suit. I hope the world doesn't burn because of something so tragic," Edward spat, bitterly and sarcastically. "She already apologized. Stop harassing her, and go away!" He began marching pass the creep, pulling a distraught Orihime along.

"Hey! Get back here!" the man screamed at them. "Who's going to pay for my suit?"

Ed's lips turned into a vicious snarl. That jackass was really pushing his buttons. He only spoke one word. "Al." It was uttered with such barely controlled anger and force that Alphonse instantly understood what his older brother wanted, and acted without hesitation.

Edward didn't need to look view the flashes of a transmutation happening behind him. He needed to get back to the hotel, so Orihime would be able to breathe easier. It was getting late anyway. Guess, they could visit Hughes tomorrow. He couldn't bare leaving Orihime alone when she's like this. So fragile and vulnerable.

He felt the auburn haired healer's hand tighten around his. "I'm sorry for causing you trouble, Eddie," she mumbled, weakly.

"Don't worry about it. The guy's an ass." He laughed, lightly, trying to lift the mood into a more relaxing atmosphere. "You know," he whispered, quietly. "You don't have to hide the fact that you're scared, that what happened yesterday still bothers you. I'm always right here for you when you need someone to talk to. Okay, Orihime?" he finished, gently squeezing her hand to get his point across. After all, Orihime's always been there for him at his weakest moments, and now it's his turn to be there for her.

The blond alchemist glanced behind him, shooting her a soft grin, wanting to see her expression. The top half of her face and eyes were hidden by her bangs and shadowed by his red coat. Though, he could clearly see the shy blush that decorated her cheeks. It was almost as dark as her hair. She gave a simple, timid nod, lightly squeezing his hand back to convey that she heard him, loud and clear, too bashful to speak. Her hand clutching, tightly to his signature coat, seeking comfort in Edward's scent. It smelled just like him.

There were no words that needed to be spoken. He was already well aware that she wanted to say 'thank you'. That tiny, significant gesture was enough for him to register her feelings.

Edward continued to lead Orihime down the route of the hotel they stayed in last time.

"Eddie… Your hand… It's...warm." Her quiet, timid, warm voice drifted through the air, like a whisper through the wind.

Ed's own face began to heat up, feeling his heart skip a beat.

Once they arrived at the hotel, Edward led Orihime to her room. He knocked on the door, wondering if Winry was still there or did she already leave to Rush Valley? No, if she had left, then their rooms would have cancelled, and he would have to book another one. After all, he told her to cancel the rooms, if she left before they came back. No sense in wasting money, if nobody's using the rooms. The fact that they still have their reservations means Winry is still here in Central. Maybe she went out for a walk or something, or went out to eat.

He took her into his room. He guided her took the couch and set her down. Tenderly rubbing her back, her trembling had stopped for the most part. He almost jumped, startlingly when she leaned her head against his shoulder, but he contained himself. Although, that didn't stop the light pink blush that dusted across the bridge of his nose. Eventually he smiled, softly patting her head.

Minutes passed of relative peaceful silence. Neither Al nor Nina had arrived yet. What was taking the two so long? Surely, the younger Elric couldn't have taken that long to fix up the jerk's suit. Nina stayed behind to help him.

Orihime eventually removed her head from his shoulder, much to Ed's disappointment. "I should probably get dinner started." She quietly stood up to head into the kitchen, but a cool, metal hand stopped her by grabbing her wrist.

Confused, she tilted her head in his it was again. That strange gleam in his golden eyes. That look that makes her heart skip a beat.

"Don't force yourself," the blond alchemist advised, gently.

She stared at him, surprised and concerned. "What about that curry you wanted?" she protested, her sweet voice hanging through the air. "I promised to make you some!"

He shook his head, getting into a relaxing pose. "Nevermind that. I can always have it later." His face scrunches up into a thoughtful expression. It appeared as if she wanted to say something. "Listen, I-"

The blond boy's interrupted by the door quietly creaking open. The two teens almost shriek and swiftly bounce away from each with crimson red blushes on their faces just as Alphonse and Nina walk in.

"What took you guys so long?" Edward questioned, trying to hide his embarrassment behind an annoyed frown.

Nina, with a sad and worried look, immediately jogged up to Orihime. "Big sis, are you feeling better now?" she asked in a tiny voice filled with concern.

The ginger haired girl smiled, bending down to the younger girl's level. "Yes, I'm fine now, Nina," she replied, softly patting the little girl's head. "Eddie took care of me. Sorry for causing you worry."

The pig tailed began bawling eyes out, and throw her tiny body at the older girl. "I was so worried! You're not sad? You're not sad anymore?" she blubbered, wrapping her teeny arms around the healer.

It surprised Orihime how much Nina worries and cares for her. Al was staring at in concern. He wanted to say something, but opted not to because doesn't want to disrupt the tender moment between the two girls.

Gray eyes glanced up Ed to see him giving her an earnest smile. She realized she did have people she can rely on.

But…

But…!

"You did this to me." His voice was cold. So icy cold. "Because of you…! Because of you, I ended up in this mess! Because of you, I lost my powers! You ruined my life! YOU KILLED ME, ORIHIME!"

But this isn't right. If she keeps this, then the same thing would happen all over again. She couldn't…! She shouldn't be relying on them. She shouldn't be clinging to Edward. What's wrong with her? Is she trying to make the same mistake again?! She shouldn't burden them with her problems. She doesn't have any right to burden anyone with her problems! She should get that through her head already! She was never going to become stronger this way… She should...just deal with everything herself. Otherwise, nothing would change.

"I haven't...changed at all."

The four of them chit chatted for a while, mostly discussing about their next course of action. It was decided that they were going to visit Hughes first thing after breakfast in the morning. Everyone was happy about the prospect of seeing Hughes. Well, everyone except for Nina because only she knew the truth. Hughes was dead. He was no more. They would never be able to see him again.

Dinner consisted of the leftover chicken, carrots, and creamy mushroom stew, baked apple, strawberry jam, honey, and butter bread, and chicken, broccoli, and cheese casserole that was still left in the fridge. There wasn't that much left. Just some fried rice, salad, and yakisoba that still remained. Winry must've ate most of the leftovers while they were gone. Orihime would need to go grocery shopping again to cook and stock up on food.

It was already, practically time everyone, more specifically, Nina to head to bed. The little girl was already yawning, doing her best not to nod off. Winry still hasn't come back yet, so Alphonse asked and retrieved a spare key for Orihime's room from the receptionist.

Edward went to escort the girls to their rooms while Al stayed behind, insisting to do the dishes. While Orihime objected against Ed walking them to their room since it was right across the hall, she quickly gave in due to his stubbornness.

The instant the auburn haired girl unlocked the door, Nina headed straight to the bedroom, looking forward to getting a good night's sleep.

The two teenagers stood there awkwardly, not knowing what to say.

Ed nervously scratched the back of his head, feeling the stings of embarrassment coming on. Why the hell did he come out here again? He felt like an idiot just standing here, doing nothing.

"Um, Eddie?" He heard his name being whispered out from her lips in a voice that sounded between a squeak and a gasp. She shyly fidgeted with her skirt. Her mouth opened and closed repeatedly, but no words came out. She was tongue tied that his piercing and questioning gaze was on her.

He anxiously waited for her to continue. He could feel his heartbeat speed up, and his anxiety taking over. He distinctly heard a soft footstep. Then two. Then…!

Then…!

The blond alchemist's mind went blank. He was completely and utterly at a loss for words. He was absolutely speechless, his golden eyes wide with mind numbing astonishment, shock inducing bafflement, and heart pounding exhilaration. This couldn't be real, right. This is… This his imagination, right? This light feathery feeling against his right cheek was just a dream. It must be!

Time froze. Everything around him disappeared, except for the auburn haired beauty. He could feel the blood rushing to his face, and his heart pounding, incessantly hard in his ears. Butterflies swarmed with an ecstatic excitement and a fiery passionate dance in the pit of his stomach. Electric sparks tingled the nerves of his skin from where her velvety soft lips were planted. Whatever this wonderfully exalted and blissfully happy feeling was, he was floating on a bed of clouds!

Orihime was kissing him! ON THE CHEEK!

Just as quickly as she kissed his cheek, she stopped a split second later. He just stared at her in a mindless daze, completely bewitched by what just transpired. He was pretty sure his entire face and ears were as red as his signature coat. The air was still with silence. The only sound he could hear was the rapidly thumping music of his own heartbeat.

Orihime suddenly realized what she did, and produced a loud, embarrassed, and horrified 'eep'. Her own face blushing ten different shades of red. Filled with utter mortification and embarrassment, she bashfully hid her extremely reddened face behind her hands. She swiftly dashed inside her room as if her life depended on, and shut the door behind her.

Hearing the door slam shut, snapped Edward out his starry eyed stupor. His flesh hand went up to lightly brush against the skin of his cheek where Orihime's lips were planted just moments ago. An overwhelming sense of delightful happiness and dazzling pleasure washed over him. He wasn't even angry or ashamed that, unlike most women who have to stand on their tippy toes to kiss their significant other on the cheek, Orihime had to bend down an inch to plant a soft one on his cheek. A tiny, warm smile grew on his face as he stared, wildly enamored at her door, still feeling the tiny sparks of the tingling sensation that remained where his fingers gently traced his kissed skin.

He wasn't going to wash this cheek for a while.

Orihime was planted on the floor, her back pressed against the frame of the door. Her hands were still covering her blushing face. Oh! Why did she do that? Why did she kiss Edward on the cheek? Steam was practically blowing out of her ears! Oh! She didn't mean to do that. She just...wanted to thank him. But looking at his golden eyes, the words died in her throat as she became enraptured. She merely acted out of impulse! Oh! She never felt more embarrassed in her life!

What's happening to her?! Why can't she control herself around Ed? Why was her heart still pounding against her chest? Why is she so acutely aware of his presence? His scent? His warmth?

It's like… Ever since the dance...and that...kiss...she can't look at Edward the same way. She finds herself more drawn to him. She feels...weird around him. She notices all these little things about him. Like the amusing way his lips twitches when his angry similar to a growling puppy. The funny manner in which he spazzes out whenever he's angry or embarrassed. How cute he looks when he smirks. The warm intensity of golden eyes whenever his determination shines through. The adorable way his nose crinkles when he's deep in thought. Her strong desire to cook for him just to see his satisfied face. His cute snores and the adorable way he sometimes scratches his belly when he's sleeping. The warmth she feels in her heart whenever he pats her head. How warm his hand was when he held her hand. The overwhelming desire to see him, to be with him. But, most of all, how beautiful his eyes look. Warm, bright, and ablaze with a burning passion. Just like the sun. All these little things that make her heart flutter.

Oh, her emotions were going haywire again. She swung her head around, trying to shake her mind out of these embarrassing and out of place thoughts, her auburn hair tossing and turning. She felt so confused and conflicted. Every time she's alone with Ed, all these thoughts and feelings fill her head. She felt happy and satisfied. Delighted and content. Shy and emotional. So many emotions flooded through her.

Yet there was one emotion that floated inside her that was not so pleasant. A negative sense of guilt for feeling these things swirled inside the deep recesses of her heart. Like she shouldn't feel this way towards Ed. Edward isn't the one. These emotions are supposed to be for someone else.

She was so CONFUSED!

Her hands went to nervously play with the earrings Ed bought her. She remembered how incredibly happy she was to receive the heartfelt gift. A shy smile played on her lips as she recalled the memory, her heart skipping a beat. She couldn't wait to wear them! Although, getting her ears pierced was somewhat painful, she would graciously endure the pain just so she could wear these beautiful pieces of jewelry as quickly as possible.

The auburn haired girl climbed back up to her feet. The remnants of embarrassment and self consciousness remained on her facial features, but she was okay now for the most part. She slowly and carefully headed towards her bedroom. Maybe a good night's sleep would help clear her head.

The four enjoyed a nice, pleasant breakfast of cheese, strawberry jelly, and bacon omelette the next morning. As happy words and peppy laughter filled the room, Alphonse couldn't help but notice how two people were behaving kind of...unusual. While Orihime was acting shy and self conscious around his older brother, Edward seemed to be on cloud nine. He was so overly happy for some reason. He's been extra cheerful since before he went off to bed. What in the world happened last night?

Afterwards, the foursome started making their way to Hughes's house. Nina was the only one who felt uneasy about this. The little girl looked as if she wanted to say, but immediately closes her mouth, not wanting to picture their crushed faces when she gives them the very sad news.

The four trekked down the streets Hughes residence. Orihime's eyes gazed around, viewing the many people rushing towards their job, women shopping for groceries, and kids playing together. It was such a happy atmosphere.

She heard Edward make a sharp cry of pain, and her attention was focused back on who was now tenderly rubbing his bruised nose. Worry filled her. "Eddie, are you okay?" She quickened her pace until she was next to him. She pulled out a yellow handkerchief from her skirt's pocket.

When she reached for him, Edward stubbornly refused her handkerchief, turning his head away, so she wouldn't see his blushing face. "I'm fine," he protested, hints of embarrassment in his tone. "A bruised nose is nothing fret over." He glared at the idiot who stupid enough to bump into him and not watch where they were fucking going, only for his anger to turn into an expression of surprise. "Lieutenant Ross?"

All eyes snapped in surprise at the female second lieutenant. They haven't seen her since the incident with the Fifth Laboratory. Nina was the only staring at the soldier with a mixture of confusion and uneasiness, shyly hiding behind Orihime's leg.

Maria's own dark orbs widened, slightly in shock at who she bumped into, seeing several familiar faces. "Edward? Alphonse? Miss Inoue? What are you guys doing here back in Central?" she asked, lightly startled by the three teens unexpected appearance. She noticed the little girl behind the healer.

"It's good to see you, Lieutenant Ross!" Alphonse chirped, happy to see the soldier alive and well.

"Good morning, Ms. Ross," Orihme greeted the lieutenant with a polite bow.

The dark woman grinned at them before her curious gaze landed on the little girl hiding behind the healer's leg. "And who's this?" she asked, kindly.

The pig tailed girl let out a small squeak, nervously pushing her face further into the older girl's leg.

The auburn haired girl gazed at the somewhat baffled soldier with a sheepish smile. "She's a little shy." Though, she was more than a little confused the younger girl's behavior. She knew she was kind of shy around strangers. But this wasn't just plain shyness. She seemed to be openly cautious of the lieutenant. Did the illusion effect her, too? Her father worked as a State Alchemist for the military. Maybe that caused Nina to develop, not necessarily a fear or dislike, but a wariness of soldiers.

Maria smiled. "That's okay. It's good to see you three again! I hope you all are doing well. What brings you here?"

"Nothing much," Ed smirked, nonchalantly. "We're just here to exchange some information with Lieutenant Colonel Hughes. Well, I guess he isn't the lieutenant colonel anymore."

Maria's smiling face disappeared, being overtaken by a somber expression. "You guys haven't heard the news?" she inquired. Her tone was so dejected, so mournful it caused the three older teens to frown in confusion. Nina was the only one who tensed, her lips began to quiver. She was on the brink of tears.

"What news?" Al was the one to ask with a puzzled tilt of his head.

The second lieutenant remained gravely silent, wondering if she should inform the kids of such tragic information. That were just kids. They didn't need to know. But they were going to find out anyway. They were headed to Hughes's place, so it wouldn't matter if she kept silent or not. They would find out either way, therefore she decided to just tell them. Plus, she doesn't want to be blamed for hiding it from them, and she can't stand the way they were looking at her with perplexed, pleading faces.

"Lieutenant Colonel Hughes…" she started, swallowing a lump in her throat. "I mean, Brigadier General Hughes…"

Edward was confused. Brigadier General? Hughes got promoted? But that doesn't make sense. He's retired. Why they promote him? Did he get promoted before his retirement? Unless… His golden eyes broadened in horror, too afraid to finish that thought.

"Please, don't tell me… Ms. Ross, is Mr. Hughes dead?" It seemed like he wasn't the only one who came to the same conclusion. He eyed Orihime to view the sparkles of sad tears streaming down her face. He wanted to move over to comfort her, but his feet remained rooted to the ground to shock and horrified at the news of Hughes's death.

Maria felt her throat clog, gazing at her with such a sorrowful and regretful expression in her dark orbs. "Yes," she finally admitted, painfully, hearing a collective sound of shocked and grief stricken gasps. "Hughes died shortly after you guys left for Rush Valley."

That dark and tragic revelation caused nothing but cloud of despair, grief, and anguish to overwhelming the teenagers. Orihime's tears wouldn't stop overflowing. She couldn't believe it! Mr. Hughes was gone? But he was so nice! Who would kill such a nice man? The first thing that came to mind that he had the misfortune of being attacked by a Hollow, but then she quickly dismissed the thought. Mr. Hughes doesn't even any spirit energy to attract a Hollow.

Nina was sobbing even louder, burying her face more into the back of her leg. Alphonse's shoulders shook. Even though he was incapable of tears, they didn't prevent his soul for weeping, mournfully for the unexpected loss of such a dear friend.

"No…!" Edward cried out, painfully desperate for all of this to be some kind of sick joke. He was the only one who wasn't openly shedding tears, but the woeful grief and sorrowful anguish in his golden eyes were dreadfully displayed for all to see. "Not Lieutenant Hughes! Why him?!"

He took off in a huff of depression and disbelief. Orihime was quick to follow after him, not before thanking Maria for informing them about Hughes's death. She couldn't leave him alone, not when he's in so much pain. Seeing the guilt in his eyes was unbearable. She couldn't stand to watch him suffer alone. It hurts…! It hurts too much! She wanted to tell him… She needed to tell him that this isn't his fault, so he shouldn't blame himself for Hughes being killed.

She finally found him collapsed in an alleyway. His entire body was shaking in despair and grief, but there was no tears. He was hurting a lot more than she was. After all, not only was she used to the prospect of death and she may find Hughes's ghost floating around the city somewhere, Ed had known Hughes a lot longer than she has. But still… She wished there was something she could do to ease his pain.

Her ears perked the familiar clanking of metal footsteps. She twisted her head just enough to see Al and Nina in the corner of her eye, wanting to keep Ed within her sights.

The air was heavy and tense. Nobody spoke. They were all silently mourning at the loss of a dear friend. Nothing but the thickness of despair and grief filled the air. Finally the elder Elric climbed back up on his feet, removing himself from his crouched position.

"I'm going to Hughes's place," he finally spoke, voice dry and full of guilt. "I'm going...tell Ms. Gracia what happened to her husband. It's my fault Mr. Hughes is dead. I'm already prepared for her to hate and blame me. None of you have to follow me. I'm the only one who should take the blame."

"No, brother!" Alphonse refused, vehemently. He stepped up, his metal feet clinging against the pavement as he walked towards his brother, stopping once he was by his side. "Ed! You need to stop blaming yourself for everything!" he clipped, his tone strong with emotion and anger at his older brother for excluding him. "I was there with you, brother." His shoulders shook and his voice cracked as if he was holding back a sob. "So, stop trying to shoulder everything on your own. We're going to go tell Ms. Hughes what happened together."

Edward looked at his brother, his expression full of pain and guilt. He opened his mouth to argue, but closed it at the fierce look his younger brother is shooting. He felt someone tugging on his sleeve. He glanced over to view Orihime giving him a tearful smile.

"Al's right. You're not alone, Eddie," she declared, warmly. "Let's go together, okay?"

He felt another tug on his other arm. He gazed down to catch Nina staring at him with a sweet smile. A smile telling him that everything's going to be okay. They are going to get through this.

"We will be with you together, big brother," she spoke, gently.

Ed felt his heart strings being tucked. Even after being the cause of Hughes's death, they were still willing to stick by him. They didn't blame him for anything. He was lucky to have such wonderful friends.

The walk to the Hughes residence was still and quiet. Nobody spoke a word the rest of the way. They were all conjuring up their own ways to apologize to Ms. Gracia. Before they knew it, they had already arrived at their destination.

Edward shot his companions one last look, wanting to make sure they were absolutely sure they wanted to go through this with him. They just gave him a determined nod, causing a wry smile to grace his lips.

He was startled when Orihime produced a sudden gasp of shock. He looked over to see her countenance set into a grim expression. Gone was the mournful and sad look she just had. She was tense, yet determined. It appeared as if she was ready to fight.

The auburn haired girl turned in his direction, an apologetic expression on face. Her look saying that 'it can't be helped'. Whatever 'it' was, he had no clue, but he does realize that look. He frowned, not liking it one bit. That's always the same look she has every time she takes off to god knows where.

He doesn't know whether to be hurt, confused, or angry. How could she even think about skipping out on this? After all, everything they said about going through this together, she's going to take off? Just like that? However, another part of him felt scared. Every time she leaves, she always comes back severely injured in some way. He couldn't help but to think the worst. What if she disappears one day, and doesn't come back?

His brain instantly freezes at the thought. What if he loses her someday? No! He shouldn't think like that! What's wrong with him? He's being extra negative. Thinking up the worse case scenario. Besides, Orihime is strong. She would come back to him. She always does. Plus, there was nothing he could do to stop. She would leave, even if he tells her to stay. He just wished that one of these days...she would tell him the truth.

"Just go…," Ed told her, sternly, causing her gray eyes to widen in surprise. She was probably expecting a different answer. He smirked, wryly. And he would have given her one a few months ago. But, at this point, he learned that it's just a waste of energy. She would sneak off one way or another. He already knows what to expect, and she knows it, too, which is why she gives a determined nod.

"Come back alive!" Those words aren't spoken, but she hears it loud and clear before taking off. Strangely, Nina takes off after her. Something about being worried about big sis.

"Where's Orihime going?" Alphonse asked him, confused.

Ed just shrugged, sighing in exasperation. "Who knows? She'll come back. She always does," he assured his younger, but it seemed like it was more for himself than him. Golden eyes gaze at the suit of armor, somberly. "Ready to go?" he asked, earning a curt nod in return.

He climbed up the steps to the Hughes complex. He abruptly stopped his ascent up the stairs, freezing in surprise, and his eyes filled with confusion as they darted behind him.

Al, standing behind him, tilted his head, puzzled. "What's wrong, brother?"

"Didn't you hear that, Al?" Ed asked his younger brother, bewildered.

"Hear what?" was the suit of armor's bemused reply.

"That sound?" the blond alchemist crisped, incredulously. "Seriously?! You didn't hear it? It sounded like a disturbing, animalistic roar! How could you not hear it? It was loud and bloodcurdling!"

This just made the younger Elric even more perplexed. What was Ed talking about? He seemed frantic and . Was the death of Lieutenant Colonel… No, Brigadier General Hughes getting to him? Maybe he was being paranoid and high strung from all the guilt and stress. Perhaps he should get some rest.

Seeing the dubious look his brother was giving him, Ed closed his mouth, scratching the back of his head with a mystified expression on his face. Was it really just his imagination? Al didn't hear it? So, it must be. It could be his brain overreacting to every little noise due strain of Hughes's death. When he looked, he doesn't see anything, and neither does Al.

"Guess, it was just my imagination then," he said, sheepishly, resuming his tread up the stairs to the Hughes residence.

Though, why did he get the dark sense of an eerie chill and foreboding dread running down his spine?

Orihime dashed as fast as her legs could take to the source of the Hollow. She could hear the soft padding of Nina's feet following. She mentally wished that she stayed with the boys, but there's no time for that now. There's a Hollow that needed exterminating.

She finally made to a narrowed intersection. It was devoid of any passersby, which was good. There was another raging roar. A nearby brick wall was destroyed, and out popped a centipede like Hollow with dark green haired man in its clutches. She immediately knew this man was a spirit by the feel of his aura. She wasted no time in shooting Tsubaki at the Hollow's arms, severing his grip from the poor soul.

The Hollow screeched out a roar of pain. The man, released from its clutches, started falling. The healer was quick to respond, and activated her Santen Kesshun to soften the guy's landing. She breathed out a sigh of relief when she caught the man in time. But...something about that man seemed awfully familiar. Nevertheless, she didn't have time for that now. She had a Hollow that needs to be defeated.

She braced herself for a battle. The Hollow recovered, rearing its head back to lunge at her. The ginger haired girl body instantly froze. Her limbs going numb. Her feet remained shaking and glued to the ground. She could barely make out voices screaming at her to move. She could hardly make out Nina's panicked cries. She could scarcely hear anything. The blood rushing through her body, and her heart hammering away in her ear. She just stood there, eyes wide and paralyzed with terror.

The Hollow's mask...was...white…!

"YOU KILLED ME, ORIHIME!"

Unshed tears began to form, burning the corner of her gray eyes. She opened her mouth, only for a breathless, soundless noise to come out. Her body, her self preservation, her survival instincts were all screaming at her to move, to get out of the way, or she'll be killed!

But… Does she deserve to live? After all, she ruined Ichigo's life. Everything's her fault!

It's all her fault!

In a split, agonizing second while Orihime was awaiting her well deserved death and just as the Hollow opened its gruesomely wide, gaping mouth, it let out a monstrous screech of pain.

A tiny hand grabbed the auburn haired healer's, snapping her out of her terrified stupor. It was Nina's. The pig tailed girl pulled on her hand, desperately urging her to move away. She recovered enough for her legs to move, and to see several knives embedded the soul sucking monster's skin. One at its throat, another on its lower body, and the last one on the white mask above its right, glowing yellow eye. The damaged part of the mask cracks and falls, revealing the tortured soul hidden behind it.

The originally human of the monstrous Hollow was uncovered to be a woman. She had short, white hair, a red eye, and dark skin.

White hair? Dark skin? Red eyes? Why does those characteristics sound familiar?

She heard a gasp right beside that sounded like a mix between shock and horror. "No way…! That's...impossible…!" a mansculine voice choked out in distressing dismay and utter disbelief. That voice… It sounded awfully familiar. She twisted her head to identify who that person was who saved her. It was…

Mr. Hughes…!

The ginger haired girl furiously eyelids to make sure her eyelids weren't deceiving her. Yep! Sure enough, it was Mr. Hughes! The glasses and dark green hair gave him away. But why? Isn't he dead? Then she took another good look, and saw that he was more or less transparent. Of course he was. He was dead, after all. He's a spirit now. She could almost laugh at her stupid sense of false hope of maybe, just maybe he was still alive. Then she realized another thing. He must've this Hollow's target. No surprising. Unless there's a human with strong spirit energy, a dead soul is more appetizing to a Hollow than a live one, considering their soul becomes more exposed for being...well...dead.

The Hollow recovered, it's mask having reformed. It let out a vicious howl, and lunging at horrifyingly stunned Mr. Hughes. Orihime acted with a second to spare, shooting Tsubaki at the Hollow. The tiny sprite cut right through it's mask, effectively killing it. It let out one last whine of pain before disintegrating.

The healer released tired, relief breath while Nina cheered in victory. She watched, sadly as Hughes collapsed underneath his emotionally weary legs.

Sigh. Guess, she has some explaining to do. Plus, she couldn't just leave Hughes here. No matter how painful it is, she has to make sure he passes on to the afterlife. The Soul Society. Or whatever afterlife this world has.

Edward had just left the Hughes residence with Alphonse and Winry in tow. A depressing, mournful atmosphere hung around the three childhood friends. He was expecting to see his mechanic. That probably explains where she's been this whole time. He was beginning to think she left for Rush Valley to continue her apprenticeship, and just forgotten to cancel their rooms.

He couldn't believe how strong Ms. Gracia was. She was incredibly forgiving and encouraged him to continue finding a way to return his brother and himself back to normal. However, that brave facade shattered the moment they left, and faintly heard her heartbroken sobs behind the closed door. He was riddled with endless guilt and pain for causing a once happy family so much suffering.

None of them spoke throughout the entire walk to the hotel. Ed had even forgotten about the earlier odd, ominous feeling he felt, truly chalking it just his stressful brain playing tricks on him.

"What do we do now?" was the question they all silently asked each other.

The three teens arrived at their rooms at the hotel. The blond alchemist barely remembered he had a report to turn in, but he wasn't in the mood to deal with Mustang and his bullshit. Winry gave them a dejected nod before disappearing into her room.

The brothers gazed at one another. Not a word was spoken. Neither was in the mood to talk. Too depressed and full of grief. They, too, entered their rooms. Ed's only thought was that he hoped Orihime was back by now.

Hughes could only gape at Orihime in absolutely appalled and terrifying disbelief as she tried to gently explain what that...thing was. Hollows. She called them Hollows. First, the true, dark secret of the Philosopher's Stone, then the existence of homunculi, followed by a potential government conspiracy, and now this?! How many bombshells is he going to be hit with?! And not only that…!

No, it gets horrifically crueler. Much, much, much more darker and tragic. These...monsters… That...thing that attacked him was once...a human being?! IT WAS HUMAN ONCE?! A dead human being who had given into their despair, grief, hatred, resentment, anger, or whatever negative emotion they were hanging on to. They turned into...that?!

No way…

No way.

No way!

No way!

It couldn't be true! It couldn't be true! IT COULDN'T BE TRUE!

It felt like he was losing his fucking mind! He was on the verge of mental breakdown as he gripped his head in painful agony. Orihime and Nina watched him with expressions of pity and sympathy, patiently waiting for him to process all of this. So, what the ginger haired girl's telling him is once a person dies, they turn into one of those white faced monsters?! And that's supposed to be the cycle of the soul or whatever? The cycle of life and death?

The bespectacled man desperately wanted to deny this awful, cruel, and cold reality. This dark, twisted truth. He wanted to yell, to scream at Orihime to stop making such a sick, unforgiving joke. But he couldn't… Not she looked at him with awfully sad, yet intensely serious expression. Plus, he saw what was behind that Hollow's face...it's mask. It was a human's face. A person was hidden behind that ghostly white mask! The Hollow's true identity!

He was plagued with so many emotions. Horror. Despair. Guilt. Remorse. And most of all… Fear. Fear because, judging by her explanation, he could potentially turn into one of those monsters. Horror at the revelation of it. In addition, despair at the prospect of his fate. Add in guilt and remorse into the mix because he might turn into a remorseless monster who would attack and kill his own friends and family!

Another horrifying revelation struck him. His green eyes gaze at the girls with unnerving consternation, paralyzing remorse, and disturbing realization. "That woman…! I knew I recognized her from somewhere! She was one of the Ishvalans I killed during the Ishvalan Civil War!" he practically screeched out in disconcerting horror.

Orihime hummed, gray orbs staring at the poor, confused man, feeling sorry for the guy while he was wrecked with intolerable guilt and indescribable shame. "That probably explains why that Hollow was after you," she concluded, gravely and with a sense of regretfulness, wondering if it was the right thing to tell Hughes the truth about Hollows after witnessing him tormenting himself about this. "It was seeking revenge. Revenge towards the one who killed her when she was alive."

"They are bad, unhappy monsters," Nina pitched in, her expression full of pity for the poor, tortured souls.

Hughes took a few minutes to process all of this. If that one Ishavalan he killed eventually turned into a Hollow, then how many others did? He could feel a disgusting bile being caught in his throat, and his stomach surging with nausea. He did his absolute best to swallow down his vomit. This just makes the Ishvalan Civil War a hell of a lot more nightmarish and tragic in hindsight. Just how many…? How many Ishvalans have already turned into those...Hollows? And how many more are yet to come?

"I'm sorry, Mr. Hughes," Orihime whispered, voice full of sadness. She wrapped her arms around the man in a comforting hug. The little, brown haired girl joined in, too, coming to Hughes's other side.

"Does anyone else knows about this?" Hughes inquired, his tone serious and business like. He had mostly recovered from his shock.

The auburn haired girl let go of him and shook her head, causing him to frown, deeply.

"Why?"

"Because they're not allowed," she replied, solemnly. "It's the rule. It's against the law for humans to know the existence of Hollows or spirits in general."

His frown just deep, dissatisfied by the answer. "What rule? What law? Who created that law? Why?" He had so many questions. He was becoming anxious and apprehensive about his afterlife.

"I can't say," she answered him, vaguely. It's not that she couldn't say it. She was unsure. She was unsure if Soul Reapers exist in the afterlife Hughes is going, if they have the same afterlife, the Soul Society. So, she was uncertain if it would be a waste of time or not to explain the existence of Soul Reapers.

"And even if I could," she continued. "Hollows are spirit beings, meaning only other spirit beings could see them, or humans with special or latent powers like myself. Ordinary humans are unable to see them."

That didn't satisfy the man. No, it just caused a sense of wariness and dread to shiver up his spine. "Then what would happen if someone was killed by one of these Hollows? Wouldn't someone notice then?"

She sadly shook her head. "No, they would most likely just think the person disappeared, if they aren't lucky to find the body. And, most of the time, they aren't. And if, at the rare chance, they do, they would probably just think it was an unfortunate accident of some kind. I have been to a few towns with Ed and Al that have been home and hunting ground for Hollows. They were people who were scared, terrified to go to certain areas because of the strange 'disappearances'. To put it in basic terms, people would just think someone eaten by a Hollow had been...spirited away in a sense."

Hughes laughed, madly, causing the girls great concern for his mental state. "What is this? What the hell is going on? This is like some cosmic horror story."

After calming down, the dark green haired man could see how conflicted and troubled they were, so decided to change the topic. "How long…?"

"Huh?" Curious gray eyes locked on him. He stared right back at her with a grave and concerned expression.

"How long have you been fighting those monsters?"

Orihime hummed, thoughtfully. She's been fighting Hollows ever since she's got her powers, which was during her freshman year of high school. She's a junior now. Last time she checked. If she also added in the fact that she's been in this world for over half a year... "Two years, I guess," she finally concluded after doing all the mental math.

"And you've doing this alone? By yourself?" His tone became even more upset and worried for her wellbeing. Both physically and psychologically.

She shook her head. "No, I have friends," she smiled, brightly. "Well, I have been doing a lot of Hollow hunting myself lately. But I'm not always by myself." She's just been by herself ever since she came to this world.

His facial expression showed signs of relief. "Then what about Ed and Al? Do they, at least, know about all these Hollows?"

Orihime's face turned sad and somewhat guilty. "No," she breathed out.

Hughes just loured at her in disapproval. That just made her feel even more guilty. "Why?" It was a single worded question, but it was said in such an authoritative, almost angry tone that it made her flinch.

"Because...I don't want them to get involved," she squeaked out, weakly. "They have their own problems to deal with it. No. They shouldn't get involved." Her voice rose, getting stronger and more resolute. "They should just live their happy, ordinary human lives. I knew what I was getting myself into the moment I got my powers. I became aware of the fact that I'm destined to continue fighting Hollows. I have no regrets about it. As long as I could help people somehow, be of use to someone, I was okay with it. But… Eddie and Al… They don't know. And it's a good thing they don't. They don't need to get involved with something as terrifying and emotionally straining as this. They have enough on their plates already. It's better if they just stay ignorant of this whole Hollow business."

"I've been seeing them ever since my friend was killed by one of them," the little girl add, her voice full of sorrow and helplessness. "And big sis told me about them after that."

Orihime smiled, wryly at her before her gaze turned back to Hughes. The dark green haired man didn't agree with the healer's logic, but she cut him off before he had the chance to say anything. "Enough about this, Mr. Hughes. If you don't want to turn into a Hollow, then you should just pass on to the afterlife," she warned him. "The longer you stay, the closer you will be to becoming another soul sucking monster."

Hughes sighed, melancholically. "Understood. I, at least, wanted to say goodbye to my wife and daughter before I moved on. But that can't happen, can it? They wouldn't be able to see me, right?" He smiled, ruefully. Then his gaze landed on the auburn haired girl's earrings. "Those earrings…," he spoke out in curiosity. "You didn't have them the last time we've met, did you? They look nice on you."

"Oh? These?" She twiddled with the jewelry. "Thanks!" she beamed, brightly. She was grateful for the compliment, and happy that the depressing atmosphere was turning into a more lighthearted one. "Eddie gave them to me. He bought me these earrings!"

"Ed...gave you those earrings?" the bespectable man stuttered as if he couldn't believe his ears. Then he all but gushed out. "I can't believe Ed bought you earrings! You are quite the lucky lady! And here I thought he had bad taste in fashion. I would never imagine he would ever confess. It's about time, too. So, when's the wedding?" he cooed.

Orihime's face turned a deep shade of red. "W-w-w-wedding?!" she stammered out, embarrassed. She vehemently shook her head. "N-no! You got the wrong idea, Mr. Hughes!" she cried, hoping to clear up this misunderstanding. "We're just friends! It's just a gift! Nothing more!"

He pouted in disappointment. "So, how the boys doing? Have they made any progress in their journey?"

She smiled, her blush dying down. She told him everything they have been through. From the appearance of mod souls to getting to Rush Valley by foot because of train being destroyed and no train stations in any of the small towns they've visited. Their own adventures in each of those said towns. Their time Rush Valley. Ed's watch being pickpocketed, which somehow led them to delivering babies. Twins, in fact. Their stay in Dublith, and meeting Ed's and Al's alchemy teacher, Izumi Curtis, and her husband, Sig Curtis. And finally meeting some Xingese foreigners, Ling, Lan Fan, and Fu when they returned back to Rush Valley for Edward's automail repairs.

The only part she left out were all the intimate, yet weirdly good moments between her and Edward. Not only was she too embarrassed and uncomfortable bringing it up, but how could she talk about without feeling self conscious and bashful? She especially did not bring up the dance or that she and Ed had kissed. Her feelings became a jumbled mess after that. That's when she started feeling extra weird around Ed. She doesn't want to discuss her conflicted feelings towards the blond alchemist, so she kept her mouth shut.

Nina added her input of what she's been about she's been up to since his death. The good times she had. The bad times. Happy memories. And sad memories. She spoke with such a happy, child like glee. Orihime suspects she was delighted to speak with Mr. Hughes one more time because now she could finally get some closer. Most people don't get this chance to be able to speak to a loved one's ghost one last time before they move on.

Hughes listened to the girls' tales with rapt attention, doing his best to take everything in and in stride. He crossed his arms with contemplative frown on his facial features. "So, not only do we have homunculi and Hollows roaming around, but we are also dealing with these artificial souls called mod souls?" He chuckled, humorlessly and ruefully. "I picked a great time to die, didn't I?" he sighed, sarcastically.

He glanced up at the sky too see that the sun had already set, and the streetlights were on. He shot the girls a sad, weary, and resigned smile. "It's getting late. You girls should head on home before it gets too dark. I guess...this is goodbye, isn't it?"

Orihime nodded, dolefully while Nina did her best to hold in her tears, but failing because some teardrops were pouring out in a trinkle of crystal stream.

"Is there anything you want, Mr. Hughes?" the ginger haired girl asked with a bittersweet smile. "A last request before you pass on?"

Hughes smiled at the girl. "Yes. Would you help me write a letter to all my friends and family? I want to give everyone my final thoughts. Since I can't talk to them directly, this is the best option I could come up with."

Orihime did her best to beam behind her tearful smile. "Okay!" she agreed.

Green eyes gazed down, happily and contentedly at Nina. He slowly bent down to her level, softly placing a hand on her head. "Nina…" The little girl eyed him, intently and with a tear stricken look. "I know you've only stayed with us, but it's been great having you around. It was like having a second daughter in the house. Elicia really looks up to you like a big sister. Don't forget to visit from time to time to play with my adorable daughter. It's too bad I won't be able to see you grow up from a cute girl to a beautiful woman. Life would only get a lot harder from now on, but don't be discouraged. Whenever you feel trapped and that there's no way out, talk to your friends. They would help you with whatever problems you have. Okay? Oh, and don't marry any creepers."

At this point, the pig tailed girl was bawling her eyes out. Her dam breaking under the emotionally farewell, realizing she would never see this nice, kind man ever again.

Hughes turned his attention on Orihime, sitting up straighter on the bench. "Orihime, let me say one thing… I don't approve of you keeping all this Hollow business a secret, especially from Ed and Al."

The ginger haired healer opened her mouth for a rebuttal, but a hand stopped her.

"You've been fighting these monsters all this without a word to the boys. What would have happened, if you were to someday die?" he questioned her in a stern and deeply concerned voice. "Do you have any idea how they would feel? How broken they would be, if you just...disappeared one day? They would be devastated. Especially Edward. That poor kid would have his heart broken."

Orihime looked down at her lap with an expression of guilt and shame. "I know that," she quivered, . "I know that, but I just can't tell. I can't."

The bespectacled man looked at her, pensively. "Then let you ask you this… Are you keeping Ed and Al in the dark because of some rule? Or are you keeping them in the dark out of a misguided attempt not to burden them with your problems?"

Stunned gray eyes stared at him, absolutely speechless.

"I've known you for quite a while to know how you behave. I worked in the Criminal Investigations Department, after all. I pick up on these things. You look out for other people's happiness, but, at the same time, you neglect your own happiness. You're kind and selfless, Orihime. That's a great quality to have. However, in the long run, you would get nothing but suffering, grief, and pain, if you keep holding yourself back all because you fear you might make others unhappy. The more you try make others happy, the more miserable you become." He placed a gentle hand on her shoulder. "It's okay to wish for the happiness of your friends. Just don't forget about your own happiness. You come first. Don't bottle up your feelings. If you want to explode, go ahead and explode. If you want to get angry, get angry. Don't be afraid to show your more...uglier sides. Don't think these things are bad because you might end up hurting someone else's feelings in the process. Nobody will think any less of you when you do. When something's troubling you, talk to your friends. Ed and Al would be more than willing to listen and help you out. We all have the right to be a little bit selfish. There's nothing wrong with that. It's what makes us human, after all." He playfully winked at her, causing a sweet smile to grace her lips as she took his last words in. "Don't. Ever. Think. You're. A. Burden. To. Anyone. Okay?"

He was satisfied when he received a hesitant nod from her. Hughes facial features softened a bit, turning both heartwarming and teasing. "Ed needs you, Orihime."

Orihime felt all the blood rushing to her face. He needs her? Edward needs her? She placed a tentative hand on her heart. That funny, subtly warm feeling in her chest was back again.

"You will make a great wife for Ed someday."

The auburn haired girl blushed, tremendously. A wife?! For Ed?! Ed's future wife?

Steam rose from her head. A sense of shyness and embarrassment bubbled up inside her. Mr. Hughes has it all wrong! She doesn't have that sort of feelings for Ed.

But if she took out what really mattered in that statement, that she would make a good wife for somebody someday, her heart swelled with happiness, excitement, and glee. Her face reddened even more. She would make a good wife for Ichigo someday. She swooned at that. She exploded in a passion of hearts, stars, and bubbles.

Hughes hopped out of the bench. "About that last request… We are going to need some paper and a pen, and a quiet place to write. I need your help, Orihime, to write a few letters for me. And we have to do it before it gets too dark. Don't want to keep you out so late."

"Okay!" they chirped simultaneously, beaming, brightly.

Then Orihime thought of something, brilliantly. "Why don't I just stay at your place for the night, Mr. Hughes? I never paid my respects to Ms. Gracia. Eddie and Al did, but I couldn't because...you know?"

He grinned. "Fine by me. It would give me a chance to look at my beloved wife and daughter one last time."

They all nodded and laughed, happily making their way to the Hughes residence.

Edward woke up the next morning by being greeted by an excited knock on his door. He could hear his younger brother's armored body clanking as he got up to open the door.

"Good morning, Orihime, Nina, Winry." He could hear his brother's vaguely peppy voice outside. He was trying to be happy and cheerful despite still being sad over Hughes's death.

He took this as his cue to start getting ready for the day. Breakfast would be served soon.

He yawned and stretched, hopping out of the bed. He headed to the bathroom to do his business and wash his face.

A few minutes later, he emerged in the living room, fully dressed in his usual attire, except for his red coat. He was greeted with the sight of Orihime preparing breakfast and Winry and Nina helping Al polish his armor.

Orihime perked up when she heard him entering the living room. She glanced at him, and her cheeks turned a light shade of pink. He rose a blond eyebrow at that. "G-g-good morning, Eddie," she stuttered out, bashfully. She immediately returned to her cooking, seemingly afraid to look at him any longer. "Breakfast would be ready soon. I'm making apple and peanut butter pancakes and mashed potatoes and bacon fried eggs for breakfast.

He nodded his head, letting the sweet aroma of her cooking waft into his nose. It smiled so delicious. As usual. He couldn't wait to start eating.

Ed felt an abnormal shiver on his shoulder and a ghost of someone's lips pressed very closely to his ears.

"She would make a great wife for you someday. Take good care of her," a ghostly whisper of the wind echoed, teasingly in his ear.

His face heated up, and he silently yelped as he nearly jumped out of his skin. What the hell was that?! Who said that?! His golden eyes looking, frantically around him, but no one was there. Is someone haunting him? Or is he just hearing things? He must be losing mind to be hearing strange noises. He took a few deep breaths to keep himself from freaking out.

And that voice… That playfully cheeky, yet annoyingly obnoxious tone… It sounded terribly familiar. He just can't put his finger on it.

"By the way, Orihime," Winry's voice rang, quietly through the room. She gazed at her auburn haired friend, curiously. "Where were you yesterday? I didn't see you or Nina when Ed and Al came to Ms. Gracia's house."

Orihime hummed while she and Nina shared a knowing look. "Nothing much," they answered simultaneously with cheerful smiles. "Just saying goodbye to a very special friend."

The girls laughed, lightheartedly, earning confused looks from their three, oblivious friends.

(A/N: That's the end of chapter forty three! Hope you enjoyed it! I want to say the next chapter and a half would be sort of breather chapter before everything goes...downhill...during this final arc. How did like Orihime's and Nina's interaction with Hughes's ghost. That was Hughes's last scene before he's truly gone forever. Want to give some characters some closer. Something they never got in the original. Sure as hell Mustang needs it before he goes on a near destructive path of revenge. Ed and Al need it, so they would stop blaming themselves for his death. That's why half of the next chapter would be focusing the letters Orihime wrote to everyone as per Hughes's request. The only problem is just to hope that no one suspects someone else wrote the letters, besides Hughes. The other half of the chapter? Still trying to figure it out, but I think I want to have it focused on Nina. Don't know. Haven't really decided yet.

Personally, my favorite scene in this chapter is Hughes's last words to Orihime. It felt that it was really heartwarming and emotional. Well, it's supposed to be. That was my intention. But, only that, it felt like it was something more than that. I believe this is the first time Orihime had ever received any fatherly advice from someone. Orihime doesn't really have any father figures in her life, so it just makes the scene all the more touching and impactful. I think sometimes people forget is, in hindsight, how alone Orihime actually is. She's an orphan. No family or guardians. Nobody to look up to for guidance. Sure, she has friends like Tatsuki and Ichigo, but they aren't exactly the people you go to for...life advice, seeing as they are just teenagers themselves. Kids still figuring out what to do in life, where to go, and what their goals are. God knows how living alone since the age of twelve can affect someone's mental and emotional state. No wonder the girl is always so happy to go to school. Being in her apartment by herself is just too lonely. No matter how crappy school might sometimes, it's still preferably over being alone.

Oh, please read Hughes's lines carefully because it's going to be some foreshadowing later on.

And lastly, Edward… I just want to make it clear where his spiritual awareness lies. I want to say he can't see ghosts or Hollows yet, but he can sort of hear and vaguely sense their presence. And, of course, I'm going to explain. I remember rewatching Bleach and the first time I read the manga, and that Yuzu made an offhand comment about being unable to see ghosts and spirits, but she can 'feel' when they are around. I think most people miss that little tidbit. Unfortunately, I did know if Yuzu ever gained the ability to fully see spirits. By the first time skip, she still couldn't see Soul Reapers, unlike her sister, Karin. *shrugs* Who knows? But, basically, that's where Ed is at this point regarding his spiritual awareness. Guess, at this point, when it comes to it...it's Ed's denial that's holding him back. I don't know how to explain it. You know how a person's brain blocks something out because you utterly refuse to accept it. Well, duh. Of course you do. That's what denial means. Well, anyway, that's Ed. And it's this denial that is hindering his ability. It's like he is subconsciously putting shackles on himself. The only way for him to break those shackles is start accepting that ghosts and spirits are real. Stop letting his thirst for a scientific or equivalent exchange reasoning for everything obstruct him. He needs to learn that there are just some things that can be explained with human science and some things that can't. It's reality. Stop using math, chemicals, and formulas to try and justify. It is what it is. This could also apply to Al, too.

Oh, I almost forgot… Something I want to add… I think someone came up with the idea a long time ago, I think it was around the of Hughes being killed by Envy, that I should have Hughes's ghost haunt Mustang. Well, I couldn't do that, seeing as Mustang wouldn't be able to hear him because he can't see or hear ghosts, obviously. So, I did the next best thing…! Have him haunt Ed. I think that was kind of funny. Hughes telling Ed to marry Orihime and Ed freaking out because someone's talking to him through thin air. It always goes back to my earlier point that Ed can hear ghosts, but he can't see them.

Dang it! I keep forgetting things...

P.S. That jacket scene, when Edward lends a still traumatized Orihime his red coat... I see a red string of fate making it's way through. Ed's and Orihime's personal red string of fate.

P.S.S. Yes, Orihime's suffering from PTSD. And no, this isn't something that is just suddenly happening. It's been hinted at since the very beginning of the story that she was suffering from minor cases of it. Bad dreams/nightmares about the trauma, incidents of extreme guilt, etc... Thanks to Ed and Al, she was starting to recover. But, unfortunately, because of the illusion, all her trauma came back to her full force. It's like she took two steps forward, and now five steps back. Her PTSD is even worse than it was at the beginning of the story. And it's going to affect her real badly during this final arc. So, be warned.

Well, anyway, leave any comments, suggestions, or questions in a review, and thanks for reading!)