#> FUTURE XING EMPEROR. [ling yao.]

[almightys]

ew

[tossawary]

That "even if you're writing a non-canon pairing in fanfiction, you have to respect that these characters will probably still care on a basic level about their original love interest" post was inspired by a lot of things. But foremost inspired by any "Fullmetal Alchemist" fanfiction that tries to convince me that Edward Elric doesn't actually like Winry Rockbell at all.

Like, uh, no. Ed would die for Winry, so jot that down. Even if you're writing an AU where one or both of them are gay, which is fun and fine, Ed and Winry are ride or die for each other. They've known each other for so long. They trust each other so much. When they're arguing with each other or annoying the other, it's because THEY CARE. This is basic characterization for them.

I was amusing myself by thinking about an AU in which Ed's romantic interest is someone like Ling Yao, in which there's some dangerous situation where Ed has to choose between saving Winry (his sister figure in this AU) and saving Ling. I was immediately like, "Oh, he would FOR SURE pick Winry in most scenarios. Sorry, Ling." Which would suck for Ed, because he hates failing to save anyone, but is also funny to think about with Ling specifically, because I think that Ling would actually respect this decision more.

Unlike Winry, Ling is a combatant with bodyguards, and so can be trusted to handle himself in dangerous situations. (Which obviously does not make Ling a BETTER love interest for Ed than Winry, Winry doesn't need to be good at fighting, it's just a different skillset.) Ling is also a leader, someone who wants to be an emperor someday, and I think he has opinions on loyalty. Despite feeling grateful to be saved, I think Ling might think quite poorly of Ed choosing him (a relative stranger, even if he is a legit snack) over Winry (functionally a member of Ed's family / clan, a skilled specialist who is necessary to Ed's own combat capabilities), because Ed sure as shit wouldn't be considering future political advantages with Xing here, so it would be choosing a new love over family / a loyal friend. Depending on the scenario (it all depends on the specific situation for all of these cases), I also think that Ling might choose to save someone like Lan Fan or even Mei Chang over Ed in a lot of situations, especially because Ed would HATE IT SO MUCH if Ling knowingly sacrificed anyone for his sake.

Non-canon pairings and their AUs are interesting to me partially for how they interact with the existing canonical relationships and how they negotiate with canonical motivations. For some characters, romantic relationships are just not as important as familial ones or their own goals. Obviously, for Edward Elric, (depending on the specific situation at hand, of course) he's going to choose Alphonse over nearly anyone else.

[xjulixred45x]

Ling Yao x Abused Reader

This is technically the last part of a series that my sister had asked me for at the beginning of my account but that I forgot over time and I apologize for that (I may write on my own about this fandoms in the future I have several ideas but now I'm going with this).

Genre: Headcanons

Reader: female

Warnings: Mentions of child marriage, implications of physical and mental abuse, bad parents, egregious and alarming age difference, Hurt-Comfort, Fluff, Happy Ending.

To be fair, these two already knew each other in Xing.

(reader) is the only daughter of the war secretary of one of the many clans that were under the emperor's orders, the Han Clan.

But despite this, her father was not very interested in teaching her his work or making her stand out in general, he wanted her to become a "proper society lady" so he forbade her to come into contact with activities that could distract her from that task.

Her mother teach her, giving exhaustive lessons in etiquette, posture, manners, preparing tea and giving it a try (even if you didn't like it, since according to her "that would please your future husband"), teaching cooking, throwing dishes bad things in the trash or your head, etc.

Your parents prohibited or banned any type of material or activity that incited rebellion or that seemed "inappropriate for a girl." Learn to fight? "Boys don't like girls to have muscles" Politics? "Keep quiet you look prettier" Any type of physical activity that was not related to what is traditionally feminine? "It's not attractive to be running around like a beast."

And sometimes it was just too boring.

So you went out to see REALLY interesting things, like fights!

That's how you initially met Ling.

You both knew each other superficially through your parents, but when you started showing up to watch the Yao Clan's training, he became curious.

From time to time Ling would go straight to talk to you, thinking that maybe you wanted to join the fighting practices, but you couldn't really risk getting caught, so you would just talk or watch the other clan members train.

You went to Ling when you needed a break from the "lady" life your parents imposed on you. It was very liberating.

Ling, even at a young age, understood that kind of pressure quite well, not only having to fit into the mold but also having to constantly compete with his brothers and sisters.

Thanks to this they made friends quite quickly. You run away a lot more often just to be able to play with him. He was the only boy your age you REALLY got along with after all.

Your parents, even if they were against it, couldn't do much once you stepped on Yao land or found out WHO you were playing with, so it was AMAZING for you to finally be a girl.

Ling was more about acting before thinking, while trying to keep a cooler head, which made for a fun dynamic to watch.

At some point you even gave in and Ling taught you some basic fighting moves! Nothing great but at least it was a lot more fun than your dance classes.

Ling would even secretly pass you books about politics or books that your parents had forbidden you to read (things that you shared very lightly) and you would finish them in DAYS (but not without first giving Ling a kiss on the cheek as compensation, for his delight).

I think it's a little obvious that Ling may or may not have had a case of a childhood/youth crush on (reader) while they were growing up, but after a certain...situation, he didn't have the chance to really realize it.

Because one day (reader) simply disappeared.

She stopped going to training, she didn't go to the places where one normally found her to play, she stopped showing up.

What Ling didn't know was that (Reader)'s family had come up with an idea to end this rebellious phase and benefit once and for all now that she was finally of age.

Arrange a marriage, with the son of the emperor of the Han Clan...he was an adult and you were just a teenager.

Ling only found out out of mere courtesy of the clan.

And for a couple of months it was a pain trying to contact you. Not because he didn't want to! But because your family (and new "husband") made it very difficult.

The clans themselves had a complicated relationship with each other, after the emperor get sick it was even worse. Even if he wanted to, he couldn't risk generating even more conflict.

Although he had a chance to see her before he had to travel to Amestris, at a "family meeting" where the Han clan was.

Where would it be (reader)

....part of him is grateful he went and part of him wishes he hadn't.

Because when Ling came and looked for (reader) and found her, it was like seeing a ghost.

(reader) had become somewhat taller in recent months, she was well dressed and with several capes of makeup on her face, with a vacant and empty look, quite distant from the happy and unrestrained version.

She also didn't talk much before Ling arrived. Or even when he arrived, but at least her expression changed, that made Ling feel a little better.

Luckily her husband was busy enough getting into discussions about the country's military with his other brothers that he didn't notice Ling quite close to his "wife."

Despite everything, Ling was happy to see her being just as friendly, but quite tired, they took the opportunity to catch up.

(Reader)'s husband...could be worse. According to her. It wasn't easy, it's complicated, he got angry very easily and his friends are... shameless. but (reader) had been able to survive the situation well thanks to certain charms.

Even if (reader) is trying VERY hard to maintain control, Ling can see the anguish in all of this. They comfort each other in the situation.

The time before Ling goes to seek immortality, he spends it making small secret visits to the Han house or rather, visiting (Reader).

Try to make them have good memories before you don't see each other for a while :')

Imagine Ling drops the "I used to have a GIANT crush on you when we were kids" bomb☠️

During much of her trip in Amestris Ling thinks about (reader), sometimes she even buys things that she thinks she might like there (accessories, a book, things like that).

I can even see Greed making fun of him for that when it takes over his body☠️

When he eventually returns to Xing, he is mentally preparing to see (female reader). By coming up with a plan, you may not be able to help (reader) directly, but you can definitely do it externally.

(Reader) is DEFINITELY very surprised when Ling arrives not only completely changed, without Wu, and with his sister from the Chang Clan, but also comes with IMMORTALITY ITSELF...he achieved it..

All the commotion of Ling's arrival and her triumph over her other brothers means that (reader)'s husband does not notice when she sneaks away, wanting to have a talk with Ling.

They don't manage to say much to each other, precisely because of the rush and urgency of discussing Ling's appointment, but at least she manages to give him a big welcoming hug, telling him that she misses him and that she's glad he's okay.

Ling freezes for a solid second before returning the hug tightly and pulling away. Temporarily.

(female reader) is also present when he is declared the new emperor some time later.

Knowing Ling, he, May and Lan Fan will probably look for incriminating evidence of adultery on the part of (reader)'s husband so she can divorce him without problems. They leave the evidence "anonymously" but (reader) can recognize Ling/Lan Fan's writing patterns very well.

Ling and (Reader) keep seeing each other at family events, which is hilariously awkward for almost everyone but them, since no one can REALLY say anything to Ling now that he's the emperor, not even (Reader)'s husband, who He only stands on the sidelines while his wife and half-brother catch up on the adventure he had in Amestris.

When (Reader) decides to divorce of her own free will, guess who makes it official? ;)

If we look at their current relationship, it's better than either of them would expect!

Ling was pretty depressed after Amestris, Wu and Greed, but at least (Reader) never fails to make him smile or laugh, which helps his mental health a lot.

You can even bring out your old habits, like embarrassing/angrying (reader) a little and see her expressions, it doesn't matter if she gets her butt kicked. It was worth it!

(reader) must be the most sheltered woman in all of Xing, and no wonder, although at least she always has someone to talk to ☠️

When (reader) goes outside with Ling they have to have limited physical contact for etiquette issues, but Ling always holds her hand or hooks her arm around hers to keep her close :3

Both at some point can talk more openly about their traumas and cope with them with each other's help lots of cuddles during bedtime on those types of days.

At this point they would be very lucky if (Reader)'s parents are even still in Xing after what they did to their daughter and Ling becoming emperor 😅

This man is cuddly as fuck! Sure, you have to reserve the PDA in front of the other clans for appearance and etiquette issues, but once you're alone or with privacy? Nothing stops him. Especially with hugs.

I think Ling would be very interested in his partner learning basic defense, especially with Lan Fan being highly trustworthy. Even if (reader) is contrastingly protected, she knows that she is never too much.

In short, very sweet love that rots your teeth❤️

Shares, reblogs and comments are very welcome!

[ihatepannacotta]

Hello! I'm in the middle of an argument. As one of the foremost Ling lovers, would you say he is more Gold coded or Silver coded?

Right now, the argument for gold is his original look with the golden coat and how gold is usually the metal prominently used for royalty and how he would lean into it.

The silver argument is how Ling dropped his gold happy demeanor when his showed his true self and during his time with greed. From that point on he only wore black and gray and silver, which yes is a Greed preference but we can see Ling liking it too.

Either way, Ling starts the story gold and ends silver, so we're having issues making a choice.

Would love to hear ur opinion <3

WHAT AN AMAZING QUESTION OMG

Just as you say, Ling could be considered both Gold coded and Silver coded, since if we look at the symbolism of each metal we can visualize certain qualities of his persona. Although, if you and your friend read my rambling about Ling's relationship with his mother, you can realize that I interpret Ling as a boy who was never allow to discover himself. He is a tool or an end to achieve something.

And I think Ling himself is aware of that, he knows that before being a person, he is a title, he is an heir, a future king.

Gold is related to royalty, of course, but also to greed, to the unattainable and sick desire to want more and more; FMA puts a lot of emphasis on Ling being a greedy person (not for nothing does he become one with Greed), but is he really? More than greedy I would describe Ling as someone desperate.

A fundamental part of Ling's character is how he is willing to do whatever it takes to save his people, to get to the throne. AND YET, HE GIVEN UP (technically) THREE TIMES.

The first time inside Gluttony, the second time by accepting the stone and the third time by offering the stone to Edward.

Ling claims to live for his people, to be a person who seeks to reach the top and save his country and yet he gave up 3 times.

Ling agreed to die inside Gluttony, or perhaps, a part of Ling wanted to die there. It is a recurring gag of his character to faint when he is hungry, but sometimes it seems that he does it on purpose, to tempt people's good faith and get free food, or maybe the damn guy is hypoglycemic, we don't know…But still, are you really going to tell me that a warrior, someone who has been trained all his life, someone who has survived multiple assassination attempts, can't stand not eating for a day?

It was established earlier in the manga that Edward is someone who really needs to eat for two people, sleep more than a normal person because his body demands much more than normal and yet he didn't give up in there, he lifted a body much heavier than his own and kept going. But Ling didn't?

If Ling died inside Gluttony no one would ever have to know what happened, no one in Xing would ever know that the prince of the Yao clan gave up and decided to finally rest. No one would ever blame him because no one would ever know. It's perfect.

The second time, when he accepted the stone. Ling knew he could die there, there was no guarantee of survival, he was completely vulnerable and yet he did it. Ling is of no use to his people being dead, in fact, his clan is completely doomed if he dies AND HE STILL DID IT. Because who could blame him if he died? Everyone would know that he did it seeking immortality, that he did it for his people. It's another perfect way for him to die.

ALSO, something very curious about that moment (It's one of my favorite Ling moments, really) is that Ling is clearly scared, he's terrified by what's happening and what does he do? He pretends to be confident. He acts as if it's all part of his plan, as if he really wanted that. He tells Edward to shut up when he tries to help him, maybe because he didn't want to hear his own fear in the alchemist's voice. But the interesting thing here is that when he's giving his speech, Ling shouts "They don't know who they're dealing with! I'm the future emperor of Xing…I'm Ling Ya-" SEE?!! He doesn't manage to finish saying his name, he only clearly says his title before writhing in pain. (im delusional)

Big parenthesis, I don't mean to say that Ling doesn't want to be help his clan/his people, or that he's not someone who is completely crazy to achieve his goals, he is, that man is insane just read his first conversation with Greed in chapter 55 of the manga. I love Ling and I think he's the best character but at least I don't see him just as someone confident who wants to be king, for me there's a lot of trauma, fear and so much repressed desire behind that mask. I mean, there's a scene in the manga (MY FAVORITE) that sadly didn't make it to the anime, where Ling faces Envy, showing himself arrogant and overbearing but the second Envy leaves Ling rips off his mask and you can see how scared he was. That moment for me is fundamental for his character, it's the only proof that is needed to effectively say "Ling is not really the person he says he is."

I 100% believe that the decision to stay and fight with Gluttony wasn't because he wanted to help the Elrics or because he wanted the Philosopher's Stone inside the homunculus, but because he felt he had to do it after Lan Fan ripped off her own arm, not in a sense of revenge or anything like that, but more like "If she sacrificed so much for me the least I have to do is sacrifice myself too" as a way to prove his worth. So therefore, the decision to accept Greed wasn't completely his, but rather he felt he had to do it. I don't know if I make myself clear…

Now, the third time: when he offers the stone to Edward to bring Alphonse back. I think that one is pretty obvious. After everything he lost, after everything he fought for, after almost dying on multiple occasions and after the trauma, Ling was willing to throw all that away, the future of his clan and the key to the throne, in a second. Without hesitation. Why? Isn't he the one who said that Amestris' problems weren't his problems? It could be argued that Edward was someone important to Ling at that time, but someone greedy, someone who truly wanted to become the emperor of Xing wouldn't have sacrificed his chance for a boy he might never see again. But Ling offered the stone.

It could also be argued that there is no guarantee that the stone's full power would be used to bring Alphonse back, that Ling would still have the stone to take to Xing, but Ling is not an alchemist, he does not know what the stone can really do, he does not know how human transmutation works, there was the possibility of losing what he worked so hard to find, and yet he offered the stone.

Ling could be gold, just like you say, at the beginning of the story yellow, his arrogance and his title of prince is what characterizes him the most, even gold is related to immortality. At first glance Ling is gold, but just as I mentioned many times, Ling does not really show who he is. Ling lives behind a facade, behind a character that he has built throughout his life. Ling is not gold, Ling wants you to believe that he is because he wants to believe it too.

Silver symbolizes protection and truth. It is a material that was commonly used to make mirrors. Silver is the color of persistence and the struggle of the soul in the search for freedom, and I feel that is what Ling is: Searching for freedom. Someone who wants to be free but can never really be. A never-ending search.

If I had to choose between gold and silver, Ling would be silver, but the interesting thing here is that Ling would think he is gold, everyone around him has told him that he is (or should be) so that is what he believes.

Although, if you ask me personally what mineral I associate with Ling it is obsidian. Obsidian is attributed to royalty and divinity; it is an extremely resistant mineral so in ancient times it was used to make weapons. But most importantly, obsidian is associated with the earth and sacrifice.

If I had to describe Ling with one word it would be that one, sacrifice.

SORRY FOR THE RAMBLE, SERIOUSLY. I don't know if I really made myself clear, I'm not very good at writing my thoughts or character analysis, but I really hope you find all the shit I said helpful or at least interesting. I really love reading what people have to say about Ling!! Loved the question, thanks for letting me participate in your little discussion <3

(I ALSO APOLOGIZE IF I TOOK A LONG TIME TO RESPOND, I GOT TOO EXCITED AND COULDN'T STOP TALKING, I EVEN WENT TO THE MANGA TO CONFIRM LING'S MOMENTS.)

[equalchange]

do you have any headcanons for lan fan??

i very much do indeed ! as i'm doing my bazillionth rewatch and reread of fma, i definitely want to come up with more of them, but for now, here's some of them:

she had to remove her automail arm for at least a year after the promised day because she fought with it before it was fully healed and it fucked up her recovery and made her shoulder worse. as a result, she has severe nerve damage.

because of the nerve damage, she opts most of the time to keep the automail off while staying in xing. she's confident that she can protect the emperor well enough as well as being at home comforts her. though when she and ling have to travel, she has it reattached and tuned up.

she keeps the message that ling sent her about the philosopher's stone with her at all times.

lan fan, in the manga, is the one who suggests that ling should attempt to make peace between xingese nobility, which is less of a headcanon and more of something that is just scrapped in brotherhood, but i have it so my lan fan serves both as an counsellor and bodyguard when returning to xing.

extremely painful phantom aches that result in episodes of flashbacks and breakdowns.

obvious, i state this in my rules, she has autism.

lan fan takes in one of her cousins or nieces/nephews as a sentinel-in-training to take over if/when something happens to her and she can't protect ling/future members of the yao clan.

[loyaltyforged]

@secondbornavaricious inquired: “ Tell me all about ya. anything. everything. “

something something meme from somewhere

❝ ...There isn't much to tell you. I'm the only remaining vassal of Emperor of Xing, Ling Yao. I dedicate my life to protecting him and ensuring the future of our country under his guidance. ❞ Yeah. That's it. Nothing more, nothing less!

[dhappyorangec]

List of Zheng YeCheng's past, current, and future works.

Zheng YeCheng, born on August 26, 1993 in Jilin City, Jilin Province, is a film and television actor in Mainland China.

Height: 5'11''

At the age of 7, he began to study Peking Opera, and at the age of 10, he was admitted to the Shanghai Theatre Academy's Affiliated Xiqu School to formally study martial arts.

List of Zheng YeCheng's Filmography: (will make a list with links where to watch later)

1. 2013: “The Cosplayer” movie: Zheng YeCheng as Bang Bang Tang/”Lollipop” - support role (dubbed)

2. 2014: “Swords of Legends” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Wang Cai - support role (dubbed)

3. 2014: “He and His Sons” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Gao Mai - main role (original voice)

4. 2014: “A Legend of Chinese Immortal” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Lan Cai He - support role (dubbed)

5. 2014: “The Romance of the Condor Heroes” drama: Zheng YeCheng as General Xiao Wang - support role (dubbed)

5B: 2015: "Half and Half Love is not Full" Xiao Mo

6. 2015: “The Journey of Flower” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Nan Xian Yue/Nan Wu Yue - support role (dubbed)

7. 2015: “Intouchable” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Yu Zao Chuan - main role (dubbed)

8. 2015: “Seventeen Blue” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Wang Zi Qiao - support role (original voice)

9. 2015: “Legend of Mi Yue” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Song Yu - support role (dubbed)

10. 2016: “Revive” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Li Xiao - support role (dubbed)

11. 2016: “Singing All Along” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Deng Yu (Teen) - support role (dubbed)

12. 2016: “Love O2O” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Hao Mei - support role (original voice)

13 A&B: 2016: “Bu Liang Ren I & II” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Li Xing Yun/Emperor Zhaozong of Tang - main role (dubbed)

14. 2016: “Guardians of the Night” movie: Zheng YeCheng as Ye Yan - main role (dubbed)

15. 2017: “The Song” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Du Chun Sheng - support role (dubbed)

16. 2017: “Lost Love in Times” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Ling Long Shi - guest role (dubbed)

17A: 2017: “Let’s Shake It!” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Tang Qing Feng - main role (original voice)

17B: 2018: “Let’s Shake It! 2” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Tang Qing Feng - main role (original voice)

18. 2018: “An Oriental Odyssey” drama: Zheng YeCheng as MuLe/Prince A’Ying - main role (original voice)

19A: 2019: “Royal Nirvana” drama: Zheng YeCheng as General Gu Feng’en - support role (original voice)

19B: 2020: “Royal Nirvana” (Special) drama: Zheng YeCheng as General Gu Feng’en - support role (original voice)

20. 2020: “Love of Thousand Years” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Fu JiuYun - main role (original voice)

21. 2020: “The Sleepless Princess” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Xue Yao/Guan Shan - main role (original voice)

22. 2021: “Crossroad Bistro” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Zhao He Nan - support role (original voice)

23. 2021: “Stealth Walker” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Zhang Xian He - main role (original voice)

24. 2021: “Love Under the Full Moon” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Xu XiaoDong - main role (original voice)

25. 2021: “Medal of the Republic” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Feng Ke Shan - support role (original voice)

26. 2022: “Mirror: A Tale of Twin Cities” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Zhen Lan/Lang Gan/Zhi Zhe - support role (original voice)

27. 2022: “My Sassy Princess” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Shen Yan - main role (dubbed)

28: “Hualong District One” name changed to “Enlighten Your Life” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Lin Qi - main role, original voice.

29. “Desire Catcher” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Lu Feng Ping - main role, original voice.

Anticipating:

“An Eternal Thought” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Bai Xiao Chun - main role

“The Assassin” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Zhu Jing/Jing Zhen - main role

=====

Detailed with links:

1. The Cosplayer aka "Million Love Baby" (2013) (Starring as Lollipop)

This is Zheng Yecheng's first film and television work. He played the role of a player named Lollipop who participated in a large-scale game competition in this movie. He only appeared in a few scenes.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q5u_Edq4fxM (2:10 mins)

2. 2014: “Swords of Legends” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Wang Cai - support role (dubbed)

This is Zheng Yecheng's first appearance on television screens, playing the role of a naive and cute book boy named Wangcai. He only appeared for a few minutes throughout the entire series, but his handsome appearance captivated the audience and couldn't be ignored. https://youtu.be/5Rs8LUvgHeI (8 mins)

3. 2014: “He and His Sons” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Gao Mai - main role (original voice)

“He and His Sons” aka via direct translation “Father and Son on the Road” (2014) (Starring as Gao Mai)

In this drama, Zheng Yecheng played the role of Gao Mai, a high school student who, together with Luo Jianjun, played by Zhang Guoli, formed a "father and son on the road" duo. This was Zheng Yecheng's first time playing an important role that spanned the entire series. Gao Mai, who eagerly hoped for his parents to reconcile, initially harbored hostility towards Luo Jianjun, who suddenly intruded into their lives. Gao Mai misunderstood Luo Jianjun, thinking he reported his father to the authorities, resulting in his father's imprisonment and his marriage to his mother for the sake of property. Gao Mai deeply resented Luo Jianjun.

However, unexpected events occurred within a short period of six months. Gao Mai experienced his mother's terminal illness and death, his father being sentenced to death, the death of a close friend who fell from a building, and his house being deceived by his uncle, among a series of devastating blows that would be difficult for an ordinary person to bear. It was the persistent care and guardianship of his stepfather, Luo Jianjun, and his attentive care that gradually melted away the pain and hatred in Gao Mai's heart. A profound bond gradually formed between the father and son on the road.

Despite being relatively inexperienced, Zheng Yecheng showcased a pleasantly surprising freshness and natural acting style, seamlessly portraying a young boy who was innocent, kind-hearted, sensitive, and rebellious. His performance was three-dimensional and heartfelt, evoking empathy. In his numerous scenes opposite veteran actors Zhang Guoli and Liu Ruoying, the dramatic tension was palpable, whether in intense confrontations or tender and delicate moments. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLykbRqPIkH7_3o-dmFKlh4AdUudSwOJ11 (35 episodes)

4. 2014: “A Legend of Chinese Immortal” drama: Zheng YeCheng as Lan Cai He - support role (dubbed)

Zheng Yecheng portrayed Lan Caihe, with only a few scenes. Although his appearance was somewhat stiff, his beauty was still undeniable. https://youtu.be/Yh8ydrNI64I [can watch full episodes on dramacool, cannot post link here] ep 1-4 on youtube https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLykbRqPIkH79z7R5pIFI2H_CB_7PvPt0C

...to be continued

《百万爱情宝贝》棒棒糖 《古剑奇谭》旺财 《神雕侠侣》小王将军 《重生之名流巨星》厉逍 《芈月传》宋玉 《花千骨》南弦月 《醉玲珑》玲珑使 《一半一半爱情未满》李未 《会痛的十七岁》王子乔 《半路父子》高迈 《千千阙歌》杜春生 《男神执事团》羽早川 《微微一笑很倾城》莫扎他 《微微一笑很倾城》郝眉 《鹤唳华亭》顾逢恩 《别云间》顾逢恩 《北辙南辕》赵赫男 《功勋》冯克珊 《王牌御史》叶言 《画江湖之不良人》李星云 《画江湖之不良人》李晔 《颤抖吧 阿部》唐青风 《颤抖吧 阿部》唐青春 《颤抖吧 阿部》伊 《颤抖吧 阿部》亚父 《盛唐幻夜》穆乐 《盛唐幻夜》阿婴 《三千鸦杀》公子齐 《三千鸦杀》傅九云 《离人心上》薛曜 《满月之下请相爱》许晓冬 《满月之下请相爱》温特 《玫瑰行者》张冼赫 《镜双城》真岚 《镜双城》鸷者 《镜双城》琅玕 《祝卿好》沈宴 《邪恶催眠师之捕梦人》陆风平 《隐娘》朱镜 《许你万家灯火》林奇 (林奇说：我一定能做出一件惊天动地的大事) 《一念永恒》白小纯

[deeplyinlovewithanime]

Title: My Future Queen

Relationship: Ling Yao x Reader (slight Greedling x Reader)

Summary: Ling left in search of the Philosopher's Stone leaving an angry future wife at Xing.

_____________

~7 years ago~

A yawn sounded off one of the boys that we're lined up, the older ones turned to their brother disapprovingly.

"Ling, I'm going to need you to be on your best behavior." His mother said fixing his clothes while Ling just stared boredly, his head leaned on the back of his head with arms crossed.

"I just don't get it." Ling said which is true his older brothers how have been a better pick, and it's not like his next in line to becoming an emperor.

"You should be grateful, I heard that the princess is the most prettiest girls in the world." His older brother said, and his other brothers nodded some grumbled how they we're a better choice.

A servant came running towards his mother, and started whispering she turned back towards Ling an excited look on her face.

She then walked back towards her seat with one of the empiror's wives, the doors opened an elderly King, and girl with a mask about his age he guess, walked towards them.

"(Father's name), nice to see you again my friend." His father said getting up from the chair, and hugging his friend.

The elderly King did the same thing, he then let go of the hug then gestured to the girl beside him.

"This is my youngest daughter, (name)." He said to him the empiror smiled towards her, and patted her head.

His father then lead the guest in front of Ling he bowed respectfully, and the girl curtsed.

"Please do not mind the mask, it is tradition in our country that the royals are not to show their face until they are married." The King said Ling shrugged his shoulders not really paying any mind of it, though he would have to admit his curious about the way she looks.

"This is my son, Ling he'll be your daughter's fiancee." His father said the empiror turned his attention towards Ling.

"Ling, will be showing her around the garden while we discuss their engagement." The empiror, and King both walked away Ling sighed then gestures for his fiancee to follow him.

"I'm Ling, what's your name?" He asked she stared at his hand or at least that what she did.

"(name)." She said to him Ling turned to her surprise.

"So, you do talk!"

"Come on, I'll show you around." He added grabbing her hand, drag the young princess by the heel of her shoe.

Ling's eyes opened seeing nothing, but red oh right he nearly forgot his body is getting taken, over by a homunculus.

Ed, and Al watches in pure shock, and fear seeing the Xingese Prince's body twist, inhuman way his loud screams of pain filed the air around them.

~Months later~

It had been a matter of 4 and a half months since Ling had left Xing without saying anything, (name) sighed stuffing the letter no scratch that, goodbye letter from Ling it said.

Dear, (name)

Before you get angry, and throw the letter to the nearest fire, or river then forbid me from coming home.

I just want to say I'm sorry, I know it was not okay for me to leave without saying goodbye.

Believe me when I say that I care about you more than anyone else in my family, do you still remember when you told me about alkahestry, and the Philosopher's stone?

I decided to search for it once that is done, I promise you I will come back home to you.

So please I am begging you wait me until I come back home, and I will.

-Ling

In all honesty the first time she saw the letter (name) wanted nothing more than to throw it to a fire, and beat Ling's ass for not saying anything about his plan.

She pulled the blanket closer to her body warming herself up, (name) looked beside her seeing Winry as sleep.

She closed her eyes, and tried to get some rest herself (name) tossed, and turned finding herself unable to sleep.

Finally giving up she opened her eyes gently getting up, and sat by the window.

"Can't sleep?" A voice called out to her (name) turned to the empty armor, and she shooked her head 'no' this is the other part, she hated about Ling.

The ravenette had such an affect on her, and he still does that at nights she followed herself, unable to sleep.

"You still haven't told us why your here." Alphonse said.

"I'm looking for someone." She said, and it was the truth (name) traveled far from her home country just to find the bastard, and drag him back to Xing with or without the stone.

She then took out a picture from her pocket, and showed it to him he then looked at her, and the picture then back again.

"Wait! You know him?" He asked (name) turned to him confused, then nodded her head.

"Yes, his the prince I am arranged to marry in a year." She told him.

[nevtelenwriting]

Drabble, Royed, Lingerie

Okay, look, I just. I saw a picture and I had to supply.

If you ship Royed please look at this gorgeous art: https://twitter.com/hskuldrrr/status/1324781623414587394?s=21

Pairings: Roy Mustang/Edward Elric, Ed’s at least 22

Word Count: 1,200~

Rating: I guess Mature? No porn (yeah I know shocker) but ya know, lingerie.

Spoilers for End of Series

**btw this is FMAB compliant**

Never let it be said that Ed wasn’t an amazing fucking boyfriend.

Thing was Ed knew that when it came to risk-reward, Roy was the one gambling a hell of a lot more on this rocky thing they had than Ed ever could.

Ed saved the world. Ed made the “ultimate sacrifice,” though alchemy or Alphonse wasn’t a difficult damn choice. Ed had transcended to legendary status to all those who weren’t there on the Promised Day, unsure of where reality ended and bolstered folklore began. He was just a guy, for fuck’s sake.

Anyway, Amestris owed Ed too much to balk or side-eye any future decisions he made. Ed could dress up like a clown and recite Shakespeare from the top of the capitol and everyone would tearfully remember the time he punched a god in the face.

He was untouchable. Roy on the other hand, was not.

Roy still had aspirations. After a few years people realized maybe a military state wasn’t the best thing to keep on going, and the position of Fuhrer was renounced in favor of a functioning parliament and prime minister. Naturally the ambitious bastard had his eyes set for that top stop anyway. And by god, Roy deserved it. Roy was the best person for it. Roy that had sacrificed so much, dragged through the muck and came out blazing—pun intended—still wanted to do good in a world that kept chewing him up. He helped rebuild Ishval and refused to take any credit, deemed it merely, “a little red wiped from my ledger.” He was a front-runner on the petitions to give state rights to all the lands annexed, and finally stop the damn border wars.

Roy was in the public eye, under harsh scrutiny all the time, every action balanced for pros and cons, and he had no business adding defamation and scandal to that pile. Roy still decided to be loving in a cruel world and ask Ed to dinner. He refused to shy away from the people that shouted awful, slanderous things to him about dating Ed, calmly explaining that they were colleagues now, and friends, and that feelings arose when Ed was twenty-two.

Roy was just…really awesome, okay? And Ed really didn’t feel like he deserved him some days.

So this was the least he could do. Didn’t make Ed any less of an awesome fucking boyfriend.

Ed realized startingly quickly he had no traditional feminine influences anywhere in his life. Winry and Paninya were useless, because the weird couples’ things they did usually involved looking at the merits of mortar shells in prosthetics.

Ed would sooner gouge his own eyes out than ask Pinako. Same was true for Izumi.

Ed almost, almost asked Olivier.

Instead Ed ended up in the most traumatizing conversation of his life with none other than the Emperor of Xing, Ling Yao himself, who knew an uncomfortable amount of information on the topic. He either blocked out Mei and Al shouting in the background or blacked out, he wasn’t entirely sure.

One traumatizing yet enlightening conversation later, apparently some places in Xing had specialty clothing shops for, er, men with protruding endowments. Ling sent some to Ed as a house-warming gift for “taming the Mustang” and Ed nearly risked a month through scorching desert to assassinate the ruler of Xing.

God dammit, Ed was the best boyfriend. He earned an endless supply of sex, breadsticks, premium conditioner, and no short jokes.

Ed adjusted the straps in the mirror with another dissatisfied grimace, shifting his weight back and forth from automail to flesh. Nothing shifted too obscenely out of place. He didn’t want to risk ripping the stocking on the slats of metal so he just decided to skip that leg. If Roy was into ripping this shit, he could revisit. But Roy was talking to Ling about why he needed custom goddamn lingerie again.

Ed sighed at his reflection, fixing the edges for the umpteenth time. He didn’t feel sexy. He felt ridiculous. The top barely covered half of his chest, exposing his scarred-up belly and the angry mass of gnarled tissue at his shoulder. The lace was chafing his fucking asscheeks. At least the sheer fabric felt nice on his dick. And on his nipples. Beside the point.

Mustang better damn well appreciate this. Mustang risked political suicide for him, Ed could risk a week of lace burn.

Ed stared at himself in the mirror, and he looked irritated at himself. Ed sighed, rolled his shoulders, and tried for a sultry look.

He looked constipated.

Ed grimaced and tried again, conjuring up the muscle memory of whatever the hell his face did when Roy was between his legs and—okay, he did not need to get hard right now.

Besides, the faces he made to that was just a…no. Roy was absolutely feeding him bullshit when he said Ed looked sexy when he was about to come.

Ed wasn’t bad looking. He knew that. But he wasn’t exactly a looker, not like Roy. He was less sultry seductor and more cobbled together scar tissue and spite. Less spite in the more recent years, given the weight he’d finally lifted from his shoulders.

For all his griping and groaning, life was good. Ed didn’t know how he’d gotten this lucky in life, not after the brutal mistakes he made. How the hell his stars had aligned to give him Alphonse, his family, a future, and Roy, Ed would never know, and he would never be ungrateful.

Ed caught his own eye in the mirror, and startled at it. Well, maybe he’d just have to think like a sap, because that wasn’t a half-bad smile.

Ed jumped at the sound of the door slamming. Shit, Roy got home early. He wasn’t supposed to be home for another half-hour. Shit, dammit.

Ed looked forlornly over to the bed, where he’d planned to pull a Mustang with candles and a sexy-sprawl, fully clothed so Roy could open him like a gift.

Oh well. Improvise time.

“Edward? If you’re up for it I was thinking of going to that new…”

Roy trailed off when he opened their bedroom door, his keys falling from his hand as his eyes widened on Ed. Well, so far so good.

Ed resisted crossing his arms, instead fidgeted by balling his fists open and closed at his sides, and tried for a smile. “Happy birthday?”

Roy couldn’t decide where to look. He darted to Ed’s face, the thin straps over his shoulders, the triangles of fabric barely covering his pecs. He dragged his eyes down to his waist, the lacy belt cinched below his navel, the sheer black fabric covering his crotch leaving nothing to the imagination. Down his stockinged leg, back up to his face, mouth still open.

Ed’s smile went a little less awkward and a hell of a lot more teasing. “You’re gonna catch flies, Roy.”

Roy snapped his mouth shut. He purposefully tossed his bag in the hallway, made several quick strides to Ed and pulled him into a searing kiss.

“You—you,” Roy gasped against his mouth, and then gushed, “You look radiant.”

“And you’re a thesaurus as always,” Ed laughed into the kiss, cupping his jaw and adding, “Look, you’re impossible to shop for, so I figured, why not feed into your pervy fetish and give you me?”

Roy dropped his head to Ed’s shoulder with a groan.

“I’ll take that as a good sign?”

“A very good sign,” Roy confirmed into his neck, and Ed shivered when he placed a wet kiss there, “You—I do not deserve you.”

Ed’s face warmed, and he murmured, “Yeah, back at you.”

[heartfeltheart]

Alchemy: Magic Vs. Science

Chapters: 22/25 Fandom: Fullmetal Alchemist/Harry Potter Rating: T Relationships: Edward/Winry, Lan Fan/Ling, and May/Alphonse. Primary Characters: Edward Elric, Severus Snape Additional Tags: Crossover, Teacher!Edward, BrOtp Edward/Severus. Sassy beyond measure. Series: Part 1 of 9. Summary: Magic and Science, are they the same or are they completely different? It just takes one person to point out all up and downs. Along with breaking the stereotypes that come up with being a wizard, alchemist and most of all being human. Thank you, @amynchan! D/C: I do not own Harry Potter or Fullmetal Alchemist. Discord: La Red(Mesh Mash of… stuff.): https://discord.gg/KYjmVAb Alchemy Series: https://discord.gg/DejEYNJ

“English and Edward’s accented voice.” “Amestrian or another foreign language.” “Written notes.” ‘Thoughts.’ First Name: Informal Last Name: Formal (Or used to annoy others)

"Is he okay?"

"He's been like this for the past half month."

"I'm sure he's fine, could be that Professor Severus pulled a prank on him."

"No, impossible. Professor Flitwick was probably the one that pulled the prank on him."

"Even so, Mr. Elric never spent this much time complaining about it. He would get even."

A chorus of agreement ran through the Friday Alchemy class. Which counted being all thirteen students that are studying said subject. For the past half month, they had taken note at how their teacher has been moping around and grumbling under his breath in Amestrian. Whatever the reason for his behavior, it has to be something big.

Edward ran a hand over his face, mentally preparing himself what he is about to say to his class. He was about to announce something to them that will surely spread like wildfire. Even if he was not going to tell them, the old man was going to announce it to the school any other way. The main difference between what he and the Headmaster are that Edward is providing more detail on the matter. "Settle down everyone. I have an announcement."

Once everyone sat in their proper seats and giving the Golden Blonde their full attention, the announcement was made.

"Next week, the Emperor of Xing will be visiting along with a group of Amestris. The Mustang Unit, most of you already know... The reasons for them coming to Hogwarts has to do with politics and other random things that do not concern any of you for now. Emperor Ling main reason to come here is to see how magic works, the id... he is planning on creating a magical in Xing for his country. Don't be surprised if you see him wondering around once he gets them."

"What about the Mustang Unit, Mr. Elric?"

"Continuing negotiations with the Ministry of Idiots, I mean Magic... Plus, Xing and Amestris are in friendly terms. Plus... General Mustang, Doctor Marcoh, my brother, a Princess from Xing and a Mr. Scar will be giving the school a performance in alchemy..."

"They are going to perform Alchemy to the entire school?"

"Why everyone? No one else is learning alchemy but us."

"That's the problem, do you remember how many took the exam? How many of us passed? How many are there left at this point? People are degrading Alchemy for the fact at how Mr. Elric is presenting it. To get more people into it, there has to be some sort of show to get noticed."

"Exactly. That's it!"

"Or they are just coming to degrade Mr. Elric."

"That's a possibility too."

Edward slowly blinked at his class, he couldn't help but shake his head. They were coming up their own theories onto why his friends are coming to Hogwarts. Let thing think and wonder why they are coming. They'll see once they arrive.

-.-

Once Dumbledore announced the fact that an Emperor of far east is coming to Hogwarts. On top of that, a delegation will be coming from Amestris to act as a type of go-between for the Emperor and Ministry of Magic. What really got everyone's attention is the fact Mr. Elric is in charge of taking care of them once they arrive. It came into light that Mr. Elric is very deep connections to both countries to the point he could wave off the fact he knows an Emperor... by a first name base.

Nope. The Alchemy teacher is actually dreading the date that is quickly approaching for the fact he does not want any of them to come. He just does not like any of them in general, something about corrupting his students and taking them away from him.

-.-

"Oooooooohhhhhh! Aaaaaahhhhhhhhh! What is thaaaaaaaaaaaaat?" Emperor Ling Yao jumped all over the Headmaster's office, his expression completely transfixed at everything in the room. It was just so whimsical! He wants it all. The group he came with either shakes their heads at his antics, failing at trying to hide their smiles or just ignoring what he was doing. His group is comprised of Unofficial-Official Advisor/Bodyguard/Future brother-in-law Alphonse Elric, younger sister/princess of Xing/bodyguard/advisor Mei Chang, and the final one the Emperor's bodyguard/unofficial advisor Lan Fan. "Lan Fan! Look at it! It's so beautiful..."

Ling's attention is fully focused on Fawkes, the Phoenix seemed to enjoy the attention. The Phoenix took in the attention he was receiving from the Emperor of Xing.

The other occupants in the room are Dumbledore, the four Heads, the Minister of Magic Millicent Bagnold, along with other government officials and a couple of Aurors. They were either talking among themselves or paying close attention to the fireplace in the office. They are still waiting for the Amestrian diplomats or as Mr. Edward Elric calls them, Mustang Unit. The moment came to be when the fireplace grew and the flames changed color signifying the short arrival of the group.

Thump.

Thump.

Thump.

Thump.

Curse.

Curse.

Grumble.

Bigger thump.

Squeak.

Pain in general.

Several individuals dressed in blue uniforms fall out of the fireplace, piling one on top of another. The ministry officials and Aurors recognized said pile to be the same group of people that visited the Magical World previously. The only one that did not end up in the pile is Captain Hawkeye, she simply strode out of the fireplace and shaking her head at her team's antics. After her is a man dressed like a monk, a man dressed in a cloak with a hood that hide his entire face, and finally came out is Edward Elric himself.

The Alchemy teacher looked down at the pile with a snort, he grinned when he realized who is on the bottom of the dog-pile. He said something in Amestrian that sounded an insult that resulted with a grumble from underneath the pile.

"Is this everyone, Mr. Elric?" Dumbledore asked the young man, interrupting him from his possible argument slash fight.

"This is everyone that is supposed to come. Hope none of you mind I invited Dr. Tim Marcoh and uh... Jugemu-jugemu Gokōnosurikire Kaijarisuigyo-no Suigyōmatsu Unraimatsu Fūraimatsu Kūnerutokoroni-sumutokoro Yaburakōjino-burakōji Paipopaipo-paiponoshūringan Shūringanno-gūrindai Gūrindaino-ponpokopīno-ponpokonāno Chōkyūmeino-chōsuke... Scar for short." Everyone that did not know the man's name, sweat dropped. That was one hell of a long name and for it to be shortened to Scar? Well... could be for the fact the man has a scar on his face.

"I can't feel my face..."

-.-

General Roy Mustang is a shallow and self-absorbed man. An aura of selfish and narcissistic surrounds him and every word he speaks. Acts just as immature as Colonel Edward Elric. Pushes off most of his work to his Captain, Captain Riza Hawkeye, whom he flirts with every moment he has. (It seems to be one-sided...)

Captain Riza Hawkeye, quiet and collected, serious but courteous. Disciplined and rational, keeps her colleagues on track. Strict, rigid and puts fear into everyone that works with her. It notes her aliases, 'The Hawk's Eye' is just putting it lightly to her talents in marksmanship with her muggle weapon.

Captain Vato Falman remarkable memory.

Second Lieutenant Jean Havoc laid back...

Second Lieutenant Heymans Breda an imbecile.

Sergeant Major Kain Fuery weakest link...

Emperor Ling Yao is a right down childish, idiotic ruler by far we have ever encountered. Extremely easygoing and trust people far too easily, the only problem is his advisors and bodyguards.

Masked Bodyguard #1 keeps to the shadows or right by the Emperor's side at all times. A porcelain mask keeping their identity a secret and it appears they are acting as an advisor or secret keeper to the young Emperor.

Mei Chan is the seventeenth royal princess of Xing, younger sister of the current Emperor. It is noted by Colonel Edward Elric, General Roy Mustang and Emperor Ling Yao that she has a mastery in Alkahestry that rivals in terms of Alchemy. (Turn to page 5 to see what Alkahestry is.) She is currently teaching Alphonse Elric Alkahestry, continuing her mastery of the subject.

Alphonse Elric, younger brother of Colonel Edward Elric by just a year. It is heavily applied by Colonel Elric that they are on par in their Alchemy skills and helps with the Alchemy Curriculum. Something else worth noting is that he is far nicer than his older brother...

Tim Marcoh, a doctor.

.... Scar, a monk.

Dolores Umbridge rechecked her notes she created on the foreigners that arrived at Hogwarts. She is going to need every bit of information in order to go head to head to any of them. The only thing she ends up doing is adding more and more to her notes or revising them. The longer she spends her time with both groups, the Ministry Official wonders about the sanity of everyone. Her every attempt to question any of them are met with far too kind smiles or complete disinterest.

Every turn that was attempted to gain a favor for the Ministry, ended up backfiring. Speaking to the Emperor is like talking to a very, very...very... immature child. The only times he even speaks English is to ask random questions that did not pertain to anything to the negotiations. The only time he got serious is when he speaks to Mr. Alphonse Elric or General Mustang. The former of the two would translate everything for him and Dolores swore... the youngest of the two Elric's is the secret to securing Xing. Now if she could have the Amestrian's to stop blocking her way to him.

"Ugh... why did they bring the pink horror?" Edward grumbled under his breath, just loud enough for Ling, Roy, and Alphonse to hear him. The former of the two men snickered at his set of words, neither of them was fond of the walking pick terror. They would comment on how she looks like a toad, but that would be an insult to their friends that are chimeras. So, they are sticking towards a theme of her hideous wardrobe and sickly sweet words that makes them want to vomit. Oh, how people will act to gain a favor...

"Edward...Big Brother... be nice." Alphonse said warningly, all the while he had a smile on his face.

"Meh... you weren't there the first time I meet that... thing!" Edward pulled a face when he remembered the first time he first saw Ms. Dolores Umbridge. That isn't a pleasant memory to remember. "A warning Al, she wants to know about your exact connection to the Military."

Alphonse's nose scrunched up at his brother's words. Of course, people would want to know about his connection to the Amestrian Military. In Amestris and the Military itself knows that his only connection is his brother who is a State Alchemist. In Xing, it is more or less but that is less and less as time goes by. He made it a point that his only connection to the Military is his friends in said group and his brother. It doesn't control him or give him orders, hypnotically speaking. They could ask him or mention something here and there, but not order him as they do to Edward. "Now they are going to ask my connection to Xing."

"And what exactly are you going to say about that?"

Roy and Edward looked at Alphonse expectantly, waiting for an answer. Luckily for Alphonse, Ling answer it for him. Ling swung an air around Alphonse's shoulder and gave Roy and Edward a closed eye smile. "He's my advisor, bodyguard, future brother-in-law, confidant, best fri-"

"Wait..."

"What?"

Edward and Roy stopped walking and faced Ling and Alphonse. This caused everyone around to also stop walking and glance over at the scene before them. It appeared whatever the Emperor of Xing is informing General Roy Mustang and Colonel Edward Elric are giving them mini heart attacks and looks of complete shock. It didn't help how the younger Elric brother is trying to pull away from the Emperor.

"Marriage!"

"I feel so old!"

"Please let go of me..."

"Once Alphonse marries Mei, you and I are going to be brothers, Edward! Isn't that great!"

"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!"

Everyone stopped walking at this point and turned their attention to the eldest Elric brother. How said brother is now on his knees blubbering out words that no one could comprehend. It seemed to involved his younger brother and the Emperor of Xing. The only one that appeared not at all surprised by such behavior is Severus. He actually walked over and smacked Edward upside his head. "Behave."

Edward stopped his blubbering and glared at Severus. "You do not understand what is happening... In a couple of years... I will be related to this idiot. My brother is going to marry one of his sisters..."

By this point, Alphonse to make himself smaller and inch away from the upcoming questioning stares. Mei, on the other hand, is blushing heavily but made no way of moving from her spot. She has many sisters and Edward made no mention she is said sister.

"Alphonse is marrying a princess and Edward marrying his childhood sweetheart... You have to step up your game, Boss." Jean sniggered at Roy's look of astonishment and deep realization of several aspects of his life. "They're beating you to the punchline."

"I'm actually surprised Fullmetal did not attack tall, dark and creepy."

-.-

"Have you seen the visitors?"

"Yeah! The so-called Emperor of Ping? What a bloody joke!"

"He's a complete idiot!"

"Shhhh! Didn't you guys know? He has a guard that blends into the shadows and could pop out of nowhere!"

"Naw, that can't be true."

"Don't believe me, ask the Weasley Twins. They're still recovering from that prank they did on the Emperor of Xing?"

"Wait... is that why they are in the Medical Wing?"

"Yes, I was there when it happened."

".... Whoa..."

"I know..."

-.-

"He's so handsome!"

"His smile..."

"How is he even related to Mr. Elric?"

"I know! They act nothing alike!"

"They do have the same eye and hair color..."

"That's where the similarities end."

"I heard he's engaged..."

"WHAT!"

"NOO!"

"Why is it all the good ones are always taken!"

-.-

"She's is... Amazing."

"Adorable even."

"If only we could understand what she is saying."

"That only makes it even better."

"Everyone... She has a bodyguard."

"I thought only the Emperor had a bodyguard."

"The princess has a tiny rat bear cat thing, the demon thing bits or scratches anyone that comes their way."

-.-

"He looks like a potions accident gone horribly wrong, don't they have any sort of healers where they are from?"

"He looks terrifying..."

"Hah! He looks like a freak!"

"True! Hahaha!"

"Hey! Shut up! Don't talk about Dr. Marcoh like that!"

"Yeah, what are you going to do about it, Hufflepuff?"

"Oh I show you, you damn Gryffindor!"

-.-

Let it be noted... All of this occurred in the span of two days...

Permanent Tag List:

@runestarchild​​​ @princesskitomi​​​ @fanfictionpromptsblog​​​ @souleateralicestein​​​ @vixen-uchiha​​​ @okami-knight​​​ @legendaryneckjudgestudent​​​ @weird-homosapien​​​ @justafanwarrior​​​ @vivilakitty​​​ @ravennightingaleandavatempus​​​ @if-you-give-a-chat-a-cookie​​​ @moonwatcher04​​​ @darkshadowguardian​​​ @two-faced-biatch​​​ @kris-pines04​​ @mewwitch​​​ @edwardhatori​​​​ @kuroko26​​​​ @tall-and-angry​​​   @bloody-no-kissu​​​​ @crazylittlemunchkin​​​​ @tbehartoo​​​​ @worlds-tiniest-spook-pastry​​​​ @melicmusicmagic​​​​

[queenofmoons67]

a life in the sun

fandoms: Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood and Harry Potter

this is based in the far future of Preelikeswriting’s epic “Through the Gate” series on AO3 (please read if you haven’t already! you won’t regret it). Ed accidentally ends up in the Harry Potter world and goes through a lot of things, but one of the end results is me shipping him with Draco. and of course i had to make it more complicated and add Ling to the mix. so here we are, with a small pre-OT3 fic

word count: 840

Ling narrowed his eyes at the tall, silver-haired man kneeling next to Ed. He had been willing to ignore him throughout the Promised Day for the sake of—well, everything—but now it was over. Greed was gone. Fu was gone. But Ed was here, and Ling wasn’t about to watch him disappear again.

It took him ten seconds to march over, but just one to grip the stranger’s shoulder in a tight, pinching grip.

The stranger looked up, blue eyes narrowed, and stood up to face him. He didn’t step away from Ed, though—instead, as Ling’s hand fell from his shoulder, he placed his own hand on Ed’s shoulder. He didn’t squeeze it, just… set it there. Resting.

“I am Ling Yao, son of the Xing Emperor,” Ling announced, tone as cutting as he could make it. “And you are?”

The stranger cocked a perfectly groomed, silver eyebrow. “I’m Draco Malfoy, heir to the Malfoy family.” There was no haughtiness in his tone, but Ling heard it anyway. Electing to ignore it, he turned from Malfoy to Ed.

“Ed?” he asked. He knelt next to him—exactly where Malfoy had been just minutes prior—and rested his own hand on Ed’s. “Ed, are you ok?”

The golden-eyed boy finally raised his head, and Ling’s heart skipped a beat. Ed’s eyes were red-rimmed, and the reason he hadn’t looked up before was clear.

“Ed?” he asked again anyway.

“He doesn’t—” Malfoy started, only for Ed to interrupt.

“It’s ok, Draco. This is Ling.” His mouth tilted up slightly at one end in what could almost be called a smile. “He’s a friend.”

“Ah,” Dra—Malfoy said. “Well then, Ling. We were about to find some food. Would you care to join us?”

Ling wanted to say yes, he really did. Especially with this Malfoy person still hanging around. But… finally taking his eyes off Ed and taking in the destruction all around them—looking at Lan Fan and Mei—he shook his head. “I’m needed here. But you two should go. Find Al. Take care of yourselves, and all.”

A hand brushed his shoulder. “Ling—” Ed said.

The prince looked back and smiled, his eyes crinkling. “I mean it, Ed. You just got home, and got vaulted right back into all of this. I bet you’re tired.”

“I’m tired?!” Ed spit. His face went through half a dozen emotions in a split second before settling on furious. “Ling—”

“Ed,” Malfoy interrupted, hand on the blonde’s shoulder. That was happening a lot, apparently. Hands on shoulders. Contact as a way of speaking. “He’s right. We haven’t eaten since yesterday; we’re no use to anyone right now. So let’s get some food, and then we can help, ok?”

Ed narrowed his eyes, no longer appearing sad now that anger had taken over. “We’ll be back,” he threatened, shoving his pointer finger in Ling’s face.

“I know you will,” he replied, relaxing now that his friend was taken care of. “Bring me some food, ok?”

“You bring yourself—!” Whatever nonsense Ed had been about to spout faded as Malfoy dragged him away, arm looped around his shoulder. The boy had at least a good ten inches on the golden-blonde, so it wasn’t much of an issue for him. Almost comical, really. Ling definitely didn’t want to try it himself.

Planting himself firmly in denial, because nothing good could ever come from crushing after Edward Elric, Ling turned around to try and find Mustang.

“So…” Draco drawled, releasing Ed once he was sure the other boy wouldn’t run. “Ling Yao, huh?”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” Ed grouched. He shoved his hands in his pockets. Draco generously didn’t tell him it made him even shorter.

“He’s handsome. Cute. That hairstyle of his—”

“Do you want to date him or something?”

Draco swallowed reflexively in surprise, then coughed when it made him choke. “What are you talking about?”

Ed jogged a half-step forward before turning around to walk backwards, eyebrow perfectly cocked at him. Draco should never have taught him how to do that; it gave him too much power. “‘Handsome’? ‘Cute’?” And then, in a poor attempt at mimicking Draco’s voice, “‘That hairstyle of his!’ What were you gonna say?”

“If you wanted to know,” Draco said, narrowing his eyes. Ed missed a step, but jumped and pretended he hadn’t.

“Yes?”

“If you wanted to know, you shouldn’t have interrupted me.” Ed hissed, and Draco accepted the pause to build tension. Then—“Are you sure you don’t want to date him?”

Ed spluttered and almost walked into a lamppost. Draco smirked and reached out, snagging the front of his shirt to pull him to the side of it.

“That’s what I thought.”

He ignored how his heart thudded in his chest, hard and painful and aching. In the years they had known each other, he had hurt Ed more times than he could count. They would never have a chance. Nothing good could ever come from having a crush on Ed.

thank you for reading, and i hope you all enjoyed!

if you're interested, you can find links to the original series, to my Ed/Draco/Ling headcanon post, and to this fic's AO3 version in the reblog!

[fullmetalscullyy]

If you're still taking requests (I love your one shots btw you're literally my fmab fanfic queen) could you maybe do a ling x lan fan fic? Where lan fan is upset/injured you choose and ling comforts her?

NJSKFNBJFDKZN i don’t deserve such titles oh my gOD THANK YOU BLESS YOU I’D DIE FOR YOU

just so you know

safkjsdjk i’ve never wrote this pair before but i’ve spitballed hcs about this situation between the two of them and it’s so angsty it’s a full course meal and something i’ve always wanted to explore so thank you for giving me the opportunity and push to do it!!! hope you enjoy!! <3

Lan Fanhad no time for trivial things such as this, but it still didn’t mean that ithurt to witness, hurt to think about. And of course, as the Emperor’s trustedbodyguard and shadow, she had to bethere. The clamour for the throne was wrought with threats and it only took oneperson to false a claim to get an audience with the Emperor only to make anattempt on his life.

Shewould never let that happen. Both she and Ling had bore witness to howbloodthirsty and cut-throat the other heirs were.

But she still found herself in herown quarters in the palace, almost hiding from her charge, leaving him alonewith only the palace guards to protect his life because she was so sick of everythinghappening around them.

Emperor Ling Yao was of age as heassumed the throne and so began his journey towards organising the ImperialHarem. It had been prolonged for a few years as he begun to patch up relationswith their neighbours as well as working on the trade agreement with Amestris.

It wasn’t something Emperor Lingcould hide from forever though.

Lan Fan closed her eyes, grippingthe edge of her bed in her plain and nearly empty living quarters tightly. Emotionthreatened to overwhelm her, but she held it at bay.

A daily task.

A knock on her door drew her outof her internal struggle. Not expecting a visitor, but expecting it to be oneof her colleagues, Lan Fan opened the door without schooling her features,revealing to the person on the other side of the door just how exhausted shewas after her long, taxing day.

She had spent it beside the throneas one woman from the different clans of Xing presented themselves to theEmperor.

Women who would bear his children,ensuring their clan’s fealty to the throne.

It was a miracle she had held ittogether for so long. However, her grandfather didn’t raise someone who wouldshirk duty due to personal reasons. She remained steadfast, as always, a shadowby her Emperor’s side.

What she didn’t expect – what finallydrew her emotions from deep within – was seeing the Emperor on the other sideof the door. He was out of his court clothing and was wearing his signature whitetrousers and yellow jacket from his younger years. It was humid tonight, the airin the palace thick as Lan Fan had walked back to her rooms, sweating under herblack clothing. Her cheeks would have blushed at his state of undress had shenot spent years taming her feelings into something they weren’t.

It had been four years since they’dreturned from Amestris and four long years of pretending she didn’t love theman who had ascended the throne and become the Emperor of Xing.

“Good evening, Lan Fan,” Linggreeted cheerily, inviting himself into the room. Of course, who was she torefuse the Emperor anything? “I missed you at dinner. Are you all right?”

“Of course, your majesty,” shebowed low, closing her eyes briefly to block out the ache in her chest.

“Please,” he begged, placing hishands on her shoulders, lifting her up gently. “There is never any need for that.You know that.”

“Of course, your majesty.” His jawset but he didn’t say anything further. Instead, he sat on her slightly rumpledbed covers, patting the space beside him to beckon her over.

“Please, join me. I wish todiscuss something with you.” Lan Fan nodded, not trusting her voice after lettingherself that tiny moment of weakness before he appeared. It had been unexpected,and Lan Fan had been unprepared, so didn’t have time to brace herself like shedid almost every morning to prepare her for the day.

Her duty was to the Emperor, firstand foremost. She would lay down her life to protect his – she already had whenshe cut off her arm. That was herjob.

Not to fall in love with the boyshe had grown up with.

“General Mustang just called tosay the trade route should be completed on their end by the end of the week,”Ling explained casually, completely oblivious to how inappropriate theircurrent situation was.

It was like they were childrenagain.

A longing stirred in her chest, disturbingthose feelings she had kept buried for four years.

“It’s been a long four years,” headded, a grin on his face. “But we finally did it!”

No, you did it.

“Congratulations are in order,your majesty.”

“Lan Fan,” Ling announced suddenly,his tone changed from being cordial to being hard and unimpressed. “Please dropthe formality. We both know we’re way past that point in our lives.”

He was right, to an extent. “Weare,” she agreed. “However, my duty is to the monarchy –”

“Lan Fan,” he interrupted sharply.“Stop.” His voice softened, shoulders slumping. “Please, stop. I don’t likethis anymore than you do.”

She knew exactly what he wastalking about. Lan Fan swallowed. Hard.

Ling looked tired. So very tired. Likethe last four years had suddenly caught up with him, and the current situationhe had to deal with regarding his heirs wasn’t as far away as they’d both hoped.Now that the trade union with Amestris was completed there was no way to put itoff any longer. The advisors to the crown demanded – unfairly – Ling’s answer,and he had to give his decision by the end of the month.

It wasn’t fair.

Lan Fan’s thoughts suddenly turnedto Edward Elric and how happy he’d seemed when revealing the news his firstborn was on the way just yesterday. How she wished she could have a taste of thathappiness and freedom, just for a second…

“We have a duty –” she began,voice strong as she forced that childish desire out of her mind.

“Enough with duty,” he growled, causing Lan Fan to pause. “It hurtsyou and I hate that.” Her heart leapt in her chest. Ling raked a hand over hishair, gripping the ponytail tightly behind his head in frustration beforeletting his hand fall to his side. “If I could change it, I would. You knowthat, right?”

Lan Fan didn’t reply. She couldn’t.

“I looked into it. I never agreedwith how hostile our country has become, how other clans are treated morefavourably than others because they have more to offer the crown. The thought ofchildren – my children – fighting eachother in order to take my place as I abdicate the throne makes me sick.” LanFan’s stomach tightened as she sat on her bed – in her own personal space – feelingfrightened and slightly nauseous, her back ramrod straight.

Of course. They would all be hischildren.

All fifty of them.

Lan Fan grit her teeth togethertightly.

“I’ve desperately looked into waysto make changes, but my advisors say that every change will be met with resistancebecause of how many clans there are in Xing.” Both elbows now rested on histhighs, his hands clasped together in front of him. He rubbed his face, hard,with his hands. “Can I admit something to you?”

“Of course. Anything, yourmajesty.”

“It makes me sick… The thought of…”He sighed heavily, burying his face in his hands. “All those women.” Lan Fan was shocked to see himshudder. “All those women and they’re not you.”

Lan Fan froze. Her body seized upand her breathing stopped.

“After all that happened inAmestris, with your arm, I… I realised a few things. While duty binds us both Iknow there must be more to this life. There hasto be, because I can’t live my life knowing that this is all that awaits me inthe future.” His sad eyes met hers, almost begging Lan Fan to say something,give her input, anything. “Not when Iwant so much more.”

Silence blanketed the room as thetwo stared at each other, two dominating forces refusing to back down.

Lan Fan felt those tears sting ather eyes again. She greeted them like she always did – like an old friend – andbegun her ritual of supressing them simply because she had to.

“I understand.” The Emperor sighedin disappointment. As he straightened Lan Fan gripped his hand tightly, givinghis fingers a squeeze. “I understand because I feel the same way.” Although hiseyes lit up there was still a hint of sadness to them.

Ling snorted softly, derisively. “Whateverit takes, right?”

Lan Fan squeezed his hand again. “Whateverit takes.”

Ling sighed, eyes closing brieflyas he composed himself. “One day, I swear to you, it won’t always be like this.I will make sure my reign counts for something, and if it’s ensuring I can’tand don’t hurt you anymore, then that’s all I want from it.” He cast his eyes downwards.“This country needs to change and improve, move with the times, and I am dedicatedto setting the spark that will get the ball rolling. However,” he added,bringing his eyes to meet hers once more. “Priorities change.”

Lan Fan smiled at him. The gesturewas sincere. She knew exactly what she was getting herself into when she dedicatedherself to this job, to this lifestyle. It had been chosen by her, and heralone. There was no coercion to speak of, no bribery. Her future waspredetermined as soon as she swore to protect Ling’s life with hers, her grandfatheras the witness. They had known each other since they were children, both raisedunder Fu’s watchful eye, so Lan Fan smiled because it was just like Ling to saysomething like that.

“That’s your heart talking, yourmajesty, not your head.”

“It has a lot to say,” he counteredwithout hesitation, causing that smile to reappear again.

It was a good thing she was thereto keep him straight and focus on what mattered the most.

“Your majesty, you have animportant meeting with the General and the Fuhrer tomorrow,” Lan Fan remindedhim. “You should rest.”

“Only if you promise me one thing.”His eyes flashed with determination.

“Anything, young lord,” she smiled,referring fondly back to his old title. It appeared to throw him, but once thesurprise disappeared there was a hint of amusement on his face.

“Of course,” he murmured. As if heeven had to ask. “I know it’s a lot to ask, but… Will you wait? For me?”

Lan Fan shook her head, internallyamused by his crestfallen face. “I won’t wait for you, your majesty. I will beby your side every step of the way.”

Ling blinked, a bright smilespreading across his face. He grasped her hand tightly, bringing it up to kissthe back of it. It was the first show of physical affection Ling had ever shownher, and to say Lan Fan was shocked would be an understatement.

“Of course, you will. I expectednothing less.”

[flourchildwrites]

Fullmetal Alchemist Headcanon

#5 - Heart, Mind, Soul & Hand

The Amestrian custom concerning the giving and exchanging of rings perplexed Mei Chang.  Rings made of fine metal and precious gems were pretty, no doubt, but expensive and cumbersome when practicing Alkahestry.  As far as the seventeenth royal princess was concerned, she had nothing to prove to anyone regarding her marriage to Alphonse Elric, the foreigner as some of the Xingese aristocrats still liked to call him.  Owing to her status within Xingese society, the couple struggled with acceptance even after her brother, Emperor Ling Yao, had publicly recommended the union and touted the political benefits of such an alliance.

But Alphonse refused to kowtow on this singular issue.  He vowed that he would give Mei something meaningful to commemorate their union, and despite Mei’s assurance that she neither needed nor wanted anything, Al continued his search for the perfect piece of jewelry, confident that he would succeed before their big fat Xingese wedding day.  However, the blushing bride flatly rejected a necklace adorned with indigenous Xingese jade and haughtily scoffed at a traditional Amestrian engagement ring containing a 2-carat brilliant cut diamond.

Deflated, but not defeated, Alphonse asked for advice.  Unsurprisingly, the Emperor preferred to stay out of it, but Lan Fan was uncharacteristically quick to recommend a new set of kunai.  Al enthusiastically took to the suggestion to heart but tasted something bitter in his mouth less than a week later when Mei gushed about her half-brother’s latest gift to Lan Fan, a set of ornamental kunai encrusted with pearls and rubies.

On his last trip to Amestris before the wedding, the young alchemist also consulted the soon-to-be Führer and his most loyal subordinate.  While Hawkeye plainly indicated that, indeed, Mei was right (rings were not necessary), Mustang was quick to pull him aside and fervently swear that buying his future wife a ring was nothing short of a divine calling, even if she never wore it.  By the time Al reached Rush Valley, his knees had begun to buckle under the weight of such a seemingly simple endeavor.  

Then, one evening after the children were fast asleep and the lady of the house opened a bottle of warm sake to share, the young man confessed his predicament to his brother and sister-in-law.  Winry, clearly sympathetic, quickly offered her brother-in-law one of her heirlooms rings.  Not having the heart to ask her to part ways with anything she inherited from Pinako, Al politely declined, giving Winry’s hand a reassuring squeeze.  

Ed, however, was not as gracious a hostess as his wife. With cherry red cheeks and a boisterous laugh that threatened to wake the baby, Ed clapped Al hard on the back and said, “You know we’ve still got your old suit of armor in a crate out back.  Bet I could dig out that metallic jock strap looking thing since Mei’s clearly got you whipped.”

No one was amused.

Nevertheless, as Al settled down for a good night’s rest in the guest room that evening, comforted by the sounds of Ed tossing and turning on his living room couch, he began to turn the idea over in his mind.  A few hours later, the talented alchemist strode toward the old storage shed clad in a mismatched pair of pajamas and boots with an alchemy textbook tucked under his arm.  He reemerged the next morning with tired hands and a ring that brought tears to Winry’s eyes.

“I made this from my old suit of armor,” Al explained as he offered a small ring to Mei upon his return to Xing.  It was dull silver and plain with the smallest hint of copper blush.  The only unique adornment was a white filament twisted around the band.  “I transmuted pieces of armor from my breastplate, my hand and the place where Ed put the blood seal to make the ring.  The white strand is what was left of my old hair.”

“Why those parts?” Mei asked as regarded the simple piece of jewelry, holding it up the light.  “Surely, that armor was precious to you.”

Al smiled.  His reply was well-rehearsed, but sincere all the same.  “You’ve given me a place in your heart, a piece for your mind, an insight into your soul and you’re about to give me your hand in marriage.  I thought I should return the favor.  It’s equivalent exchange.”

[dawnstruck]

Red Sun, Red Silk [Ch2]

[Read on Ao3] [Part 7 of the De-Aging ‘verse]

But something about the way he says it does not sit well with Ed. Maybe it's just his mild accent, the way he very carefully enunciates the r, makes his roll off his tongue in a manner that is almost lilting. Maybe it's the curl of his lips or the knowing look his companion sends him. Maybe it's Ed just reading too much into it.

The streets of Taiyang are a never-ending maze, made even worse by the fact that Ed barely understands the language. He's got the basics down, but the messy vernacular that is spoken by the lower class is nothing but unintelligible gibberish to him. And he would never admit it, but he is kind of grateful that there is a pair of Xingese guards accompanying them whenever they leave the palace.

They are at the market now, him and Al, weaving their way through the throngs of people, stopping here and there to examine the merchandise in hopes of finding some nice souvenirs.

They've already picked out some tea for Pinako, an embroidered handkerchief for Gracia, and a golden brooch for Winry. Ed considers buying some expensive booze for Chris, but he has no idea what kind of alcohol is actually considered the good kind, so he should probably just ask for Roy's opinion later.

After all, there's still plenty of time left. They've only been in Taiyang for three days and barely seen any of it.

The citizens themselves are not paying them any attention. They are busy with their daily lives and, though Ed feels like he and Al stick out like sore thumbs, the capital is used to travelers and foreign merchants passing through.

With Roy it's an altogether different matter. He inherited his looks from his mother, both the Xingese features and the overall regal beauty. Edward had always appreciated this touch of mystery in Roy, just like he knew that Roy enjoyed Ed's unusual coloring.

There was a painting at Central headquarters, commissioned and paid for by the Armstrong family as a gift to the newly wedded Führer couple. On it, Roy and Edward stood side by side in Roy's. Roy in his black dress uniform, his gloved hand holding his state alchemist pocket watch; Edward in a dark gray suit, a book in in one hand, a pike in the other. At their backs was a window with the sky tinted a fiery red of dawn and on a small table beside them a candle holder with seven tiny flames.

Overall, the colors were muted, too somber for true kings, but Roy's polished buttons, the pocket watch, the pike's blade, the candle holder, the gleam in Edward's eyes and the light reflecting off his hair were done in gold and silver leaf.

Edward, despite how much he complained about its pretentiousness, quite liked the painting. He liked how it was the first thing people saw when they entered headquarters. He liked the symbolism that was so obvious when you knew what to look for. He liked how it was flashy in a way that suited both his and Roy's tastes.

And he liked how it was a secretive reminder of how Ed, too, had fought for this nation, how much he had lost, how much he had bled.

Alphonse was their son. But Amestris, for all intents and purposes, was their daughter.

Quietly and stealthily, they had brought peace for their country and few would ever truly understand the extent of it. The people did not know about Dante and the homunculi and all that might have happened.

This stint in Xing, Ed reminds himself, is nothing in comparison to the tribulations of his youth. Politics had never sat easy with him and he feels like he can only be of little help, but he is confident that Roy knows what he is doing. Right now, Roy, Breda and the rest of the team specifically put together for this mission are back at the imperial palace, working out the parameters of the new treatise between Xing and Amestris.

The first steps had already been made when they had started building the railroad tracks that connected Central Station to Taiyang via the so called Eastern Express. It had been an expensive enterprise but one that would pay for itself in the future, due to increased trade and travel. Once the tedious voyage through the desert could be done away with, relations between the two nations were bound to grow closer.

Some people back home had been suspicious. Not everyone was fond of the idea of having a half-Xingese Führer, though it was a really ridiculous notion. Roy was an Amestrian city boy through and through. He looked Xingese, certainly, but he did not speak the language, knew little of its culture except for what he deemed necessary in his diplomatic functions. He enjoyed the food, Ed knew, and had previously praised Xingese martial arts, but that was about it.

Ed himself had taught himself the basics of the language, enough to barter with shifty vendors and to read texts on alkahestry, but little more than that. Cretan had always seemed more relevant to him.

Al, on the other hand, seems to be nearly fluent, thanks to the tutor they had gotten him. After Ed's unfortunate bout of amnesia and almost miraculous recovery thanks to alkahestry, Al had been dead-set on learning the healing arts.

It made sense, all things considered. Granny Pinako and Winry's parents had been doctors. Paninya and Winry had just officially re-opened Rockbell Automail, and even Trisha had had a good handle on healing herbs and natural remedies and the like. Ed, as so often, took after his father, an alchemist through and through, more curiosity than sense sometimes.

It made sense that, even after leading a completely different life than the first time around, Al would still end up as the more caring, the more nurturing of the two.

It still hurts, sometimes. The boy has had a growth spurt lately and soon his voice would be changing into that of a young man. He would no longer be Ed's baby and most of the traces of Al's brother were gone as well, whittled away by the passing years.

He still feels clammy thinking about how Al had initially reacted to the revelation of the truth, of who he used to be. His words had been harsh but not undeserved. He had forgiven Ed, though, as he always did. And, Ed likes to think, their relationship had grown even stronger because of it. There were no more secrets between them and only a handful of regrets. One day, maybe, Ed would even be able to make peace with his past.

And, he thinks with a grin, watching as his son inspects some old books a vendor has laid out on his stand, Alphonse would carve his own path, stubborn like a little creek that grows into a torrent river.

By now, the sun is high in the sky, the shadows sharp around them, but it is not the shadows that catch Ed's attention.

Instead it is the young man and woman that suddenly walk up to him, their stances relaxed but purposeful. Ed tenses on instinct, but then notes how the guards do not seem alarmed at all. When he takes a closer look at the two strangers he understands why.

The man, clad in a saffron-yellow robe and his hair in a long ponytail, is no stranger at all, but the Emperor of Xing dressed like a common citizen. The woman, a few years younger, in silks of pastel pink and white, must have royalty in her bones, too, judging by the elegant tilt of her nose.

“Edward,” Ling Yao addresses him familiarly and Ed bristles. The only one who really calls him Edward outside of official functions is Roy. Otherwise, he's Ed or boss or Professor. As he and Ling barely know each other but are still supposed to make nice, it is perfectly appropriate for Ling to call him by his given name in order to show his goodwill.

But something about the way he says it does not sit well with Ed. Maybe it's just his mild accent, the way he very carefully enunciates the r, makes his roll off his tongue in a manner that is almost lilting. Maybe it's the curl of his lips or the knowing look his companion sends him. Maybe it's Ed just reading too much into it.

“Your Majesty,” he returns, giving the tiniest of bows.

“Young Alphonse,” Ling Yao greets him as well and Al preens a little, the books at his back abandoned.

“This is May Chang,” Ling explains, gesturing to the woman at his side. She inclines her head but makes no further obeisance, proof of Edward's suspicion that she, too, must be part of the royal family.

Ed thinks he can see some family resemblance in them but, with some chagrin, he admits that he has trouble telling the Xingese apart. The fact that their guide who had led them through the desert had cheerily informed them that all Westerns looked the same to him, made him feel a little better, though.

“I am pleased to make your acquaintance,” she says, with girlish charm. She must have traveled extensively or even spent a significant time living abroad, because her Amestrian is flawless. Unlike Ed's rough Eastern dialect that sometimes shines through, she sounds like someone from the Western cities, with clear syllables and lofty vowels. It could either be because she actually lived there or because foreigners often tended to over-enunciate. Perhaps she just had a pushy tutor like Al's who insisted on learning High Xingese instead of the many variants found across the more rural areas.

“Likewise,” Ed says, offering her his hand as a test. She takes it without hesitation, her grip solid. Definitely lived abroad then. The Xingese, if they shook hands at all, favored a more gentle touch and generally avoided eye contact, but May Chang's are open and unyielding. Ling brought her here for a reason.

“Shouldn't you be back at the palace?” Ed asks him bluntly. Roy had said working on the contracts would take most of the day and then some.

“A well deserved break,” Ling says, taking it in stride, “His Excellency seemed famished and I needed some fresh air.”

Roy, the idiot, usually only took a light breakfast which meant that he was always ravenous by noon. And here his secretary could not just sneak him treats over paperwork.

“I hope I am not unduly interrupting your excursion,” Ling adds, a cursive glance at the bags in Ed's hand.

“Just shopping for souvenirs,” Ed waves him off, “There is much to see and Al has been saving his allowance specifically for this trip. It seems the money is burning a hole in his pocket.”

Predictably, Al sends him a withering glare but refrains from sticking his tongue out at him. They grow up so quickly, Ed thinks with a mental sigh.

“May I propose a cheaper pastime then,” Ling offers, “I admit I already had the idea when we first spoke but I only now managed to pry both May Chang and me away from our responsibilities.”

Ed remains silent, not wanting to prematurely agree to something. He's not quite suspicious per se, but he does not want to take any chances either.

“May Chang is a healer,” Ling explains, “And well versed in alkahestry.” He turns his smile on Alphonse, “I thought you might be interested in having her show you around.”

Al's are immediately grow to the size of saucers.

“Really?” he asks, looking from Ling to Ed to May Chang.

“It's important to start your education early,” she tells him, mock seriously but not condescendingly, “I became an apprentice when I was only six years old.” “Oh no,” Al seems worried and excited at the same time, “I have so much to catch up on.”

“Would you like to see my practice?” she asks, “Only if your father allows it, of course.”

And Al turns pleading eyes on Ed, the ones he usually reserved when begging for another cat.

“Off with you,” Ed sigh, ruffling a hand through Al's hair.

May Chang smiles and turns away, already leading the way, but waiting for Al to join her, a skip in his step and a barrage of questions already tumbling from his lips. Al had always been a good student and this would be no different.

Ling remains by Ed's side and, with a subtle sign towards the two guards, he dismisses them.

“No bodyguards needed?” Ed asks with a cocked eyebrow and Ling shakes his head.

“May Chang is an exceptional fighter, not only because of her alkahestry,” he says, “Alphonse will be safe in her care.”

Edward had primarily wondered whether the emperor did not require protection, but then he recalls how the darkness at Ling's back had sometimes seemed to move. Maybe all he needed was his shadow.

“Shall we,” Ling Yao says, beckoning down the street, and it is only then that Ed understands that May Chang had not just been meant as a favor to Al but as a distraction. Because now Ed was alone and Ling could demand his attention. For a moment, Ed contemplates just feigning exhaustion or even heat stroke, but then his stomach grumbles loudly.

“Let me treat you to lunch,” Ling Yao says, “Have you ever had fermented eggs?”

“No, but I've had food poisoning and it sounds like the same thing to me.”

The emperor laughs loudly.

“Not an adventurous eater?” he asks, “I'm afraid Xingese cuisine will not appeal to you then.”

“I've like it plenty,” Ed says, “At the meals here and in Amestris.”

“Ah, but those samples were adjusted to sensitive Western palates,” Ling notes, “You are picky eaters.”

“Is it true that you eat dogs?” Ed wants to know, just to be obnoxious.

Ling shrugs. “In Drachma, they eat horses. In Guttka, they don't eat cows. Some people only eat fish and some don't eat animals at all. Everything may seem strange, depending on your point of view.”

“True,” Ed admits reluctantly but his feet have already moved and then he is walking across the market at the emperor's side.

Ling looks completely different like this, devoid of pomp and regalia, just a young man taking a stroll across the market. His shoulders are deceptively relaxed, his smile serene. No one would expect him to be the Emperor of Xing. And indeed, even the people around them do not pay him any attention. It is difficult to tell whether they simply do not recognize him like this or whether they are used to seeing their ruler walk among them like a common men.

Edward finds himself hoping that it is the latter. Even after having had more interaction with Ling Yao during the past days, it is difficult to pinpoint the man and that makes him dangerous. Edward cannot afford to let his guard down around him, not when he knew so much about Roy and Amestris. One thoughtless word could well bring about a political disaster.

It's easy to forget, though. Because Ling talks differently, too, no pretense of grandeur or symbolical immortality, just a man his own age, who barters with vendors and then still pays double, who has Ed try rice cakes and dumplings and other more obscure stuff and laughs when Ed cannot help but pull faces at the unusual taste. He's good company, surprisingly, and soon enough they have circled back to the palace, making their way up the many stairs.

“It looks amazing,” Ed acknowledges both the beautiful architecture and the view he knows they will have from the top, “But it's terribly impractical.”

“But it makes it easier to hold off attacks,” Ling points out, though he is quietly huffing as well. From the way he moves, it is apparent that he must have some fighting experience, too, but most of his day is spent sitting on a throne, just like Ed is primarily sitting in his office, and climbing stairs is just no fun.

It's made worth it, though, when they finally reach the top and Roy and Breda are waiting for them.

“There you are,” Roy says in surprise. He must have been expecting Ling Yao to return from his break, but his words are directed at Edward.

“Hey,” Ed says, stepping closer. He has noticed that the Xingese are not big on public displays of affection, but he leans in to press a kiss to Roy's cheek anyway.

“Where is Alphonse?” Roy asks when he pulls away again.

“Traded him in for some crepes,” Ed explains, offering Roy his leftovers, “You want some?”

He laughs when he sees Roy's sour expression.

“Relax,” he says, twining his fingers through he braiding on Roy's uniform, “Ling gave him his personal alkahestry tutor and suddenly both me and the market were very boring in comparison.”

“How gracious of him,” Roy says quietly, but there is an odd tilt to his tone, and he is looking across Ed's shoulder and right at Ling.

“My sister was only too happy when I told her of Alphonse's interest,” Ling adds, “She is the greatest healer of her generation and she has been thinking of taking on an apprentice of her own.  This will be a good lesson for her as well.”

“We should get back to work,” Roy abruptly changes the topic, “There is much to do yet.”

“Of course,” Ling agrees, “But please, let me drop by my rooms to freshen up a little. The midday sun is particularly unforgiving this month.”

“I think I'll go take a nap,” Ed says. He's not as used to traveling as he was during his youth and he finds the many new impressions have left him mentally exhausted.

“Let me accompany your to your chambers then,” Ling offers, already sidling up with him, “I hear your got lost yesterday.”

“It's not my fault all the hallways look the same,” Ed grumbles. “See you later,” he tells Roy, noting how his expression seems somewhat drawn.

“C'mon, chief,” he hears Breda says as he turns around, “Think of the treaty.”

The temperature shift when they enter the palace is pronounced enough that Ed quickly finds himself shivering, but he notices that something in Ling's attitude has changed as well. Maybe it is because they are back in the palace and he is now the emperor once more but Ed cannot help but think that it has something to do with the calculating looks Ling and Roy had been exchanging. He does not know what to make of it.

“I did not know May Chang was your sister,” Edward says, though even as he says it he recalls how Ling had mentioned it during their first encounter in the throne room.

“My half-sister,” Ling explains, “One of many. They are my father's children with his concubines from other clans as was tradition.”

Was tradition, he says meaningfully, and it was not escape Edward's notice.

“You have no children?” he asks, but he is really asking about the concubines. This, in turn, does not escape Ling.

“No,” he shakes his head, “I have done away with that non-sense. It only bred rivalry and bloodshed. My lovers are willing.”

“Or so you tell yourself,” Ed cannot help but quip. He had seen enough of the world to know that, when a powerful man told you to spread, most people did not have the luxury of saying no.

Ling, however, regards him with an amused twinkle in his eyes instead of looking offended.

“I've heard rumors about you,” he says, “The Führer President was your superior when you were still a child. Some might imply that he abused the power he held over you.”

Some might. Many had. Ed had heard every variation of the tune.

“Do I strike you as someone who's easily manipulated?” Ed asks, trying not to sound too terse. He wonders how their smoothly flowing conversation from before has now tipped into potentially hostile territory again. “You strike me as someone who sometimes bites off more than he can chew.”

“I haven't quite choked on it yet.”

“How long have you loved him then?” Ling asks as though it were the most natural question in the world. Edward is not cowed.

“Twelve years,” he replies, steadfast, remembering himself on his seventeenth birthday, sitting on Gracia's dark stairs and slowly beginning to unravel the mess that Roy Mustang had left in his heart, “We've been together for eleven, married for five.”

Ling hums thoughtfully. He's still got his hand folded inside of his sleeves and his face is tilted back toward the sky in an almost careless manner, but he skillfully weaves his way through the throngs of people.

“It's said that you forgot everything,” he points out, “And that Alkahestry made you remember.”

“Isn't there such a thing called patient confidentiality?” asks wryly, though he can feel nervousness churning in the pit of his belly.

This is what it was all about. Amestris' debt to Xing because Ed had to go and forget his life. And it seems Ling had no issue with openly displaying his ace.

“You were a skilled alchemist in your time,” Ling says instead of acknowledging Ed's comment.

“I still am,” Ed says, though he can feel himself getting more and more peeved. He's never been the best at verbal sparring and Ling's shallowly cutting remarks are setting him on edge.

“Yes, yes,” Ling Yao agrees though he does not sound actually dismissive, “But you were a state alchemist. The youngest state alchemist in the history of Amestris.”

“What can I say,” Ed shrugs because there is no way in hell he is going to talk about how he got there, “I was a precocious kid.”

“Hmm,” Ling Yao hums, all faux contemplation, “They called you Fullmetal, no?”

“Some still do,” Ed huffs. Humans were notorious for hanging on to staples of the past.

“And the Führer President, he controls the flame?”

“He does,” Ed agrees, quiet pride and always that shy sliver of arousal because, even as a young teenager, he had been able to tell that Roy's specific brand of alchemy was hot, both literally and figuratively.

“Ah,” Ling Yao says and smiles, “But the sun has always belonged to the Heavens.”

There's that look on his again, the one Ed can't quite make sense of. He's not good with any of this layered bullshit, when it's people saying one thing but meaning another. It's bad enough when it's happening in politics, but Ed can't shake the feeling that Ling Yao is aiming for a personal level.

He does not like it. His relationship with Roy had only ever worked out because there was Mustang the schemer, the commander, the politician on the one side, and Roy the dork, the procrastinator, the family man on the other. Roy had never carried his two-faced self into the house and certainly not into their bed. Once they had been living together with Al between them, Roy had been nothing but honest and upfront with Ed, and Ed had always appreciated that quality in him.

Maybe Ling Yao is the same. Maybe he has close friends who know the real him. But Edward is not one of those friends and therefore all he gets is the frustratingly smooth facade the emperor offers him.

They have reached Edward's suite now, coming to a halt in front of the door. It would be a natural point to end it here but, when Edward fail to react to his random observation, Ling does not seems deterred. Rather, encouraged even, as though Ed's silence were a kind of victory. Maybe it is. All Ed knows it that he prefers to keep his mouth shut for now, lest he say anything incriminating.

“I would like to prepare traditional Xingese robes for you to wear at the feast tomorrow,” Ling tells him instead, “For Alphonse as well. Would you allow me?”

Edward, which both of them very well know, cannot just smack down a polite request like that.

“Of course,” he says instead, “Al will be thrilled. He loves playing dress-up.”

It's an easy dismissal. Put the focus on Alphonse, present Ling Yao's gift as worth as nothing but child's play, still accept the present. Edward is stupidly proud of himself.

And really, there's a glint in Ling's eyes, like he has acknowledged that Edward has picked up the glove that has been thrown down.

Now it was only a matter of time to see who would win this duel. And whether it would remain a friendly game.

[ao3feed-fma]

magic and automail don't mix

read it on the AO3 at https://ift.tt/2t5DtdC

by HouseByTheLake

It's been 8 years since the Promised Day and the Elric brothers have never been better. Having been traveling around the Xing empire, Edward and Alphonse stop in Amestris for an automail inspection before heading back to Xing and get caught up with a military kidnapping turned cult sacrifice. When they find themselves in an alternate universe and 70 years into the future, the Elric Brothers, some stray Dogs of the Military, and the Emperor of Xing with his most trusted bodyguard must find a way back home all the while dealing with a strange Order, a Dark Lord, and a school full of nosy children. Did I mention that their bodies also go back in time and everyone except Mustang must play the part of wizarding students from a foreign land?

Words: 1054, Chapters: 1/?, Language: English

Fandoms: Fullmetal Alchemist - All Media Types, Harry Potter - J. K. Rowling

Rating: Not Rated

Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings

Categories: Gen, Multi

Characters: Edward Elric, Alphonse Elric, Ling Yao, Lan Fan, Roy Mustang, Riza Hawkeye, Kain Fuery

Additional Tags: adding tags as the story progresses, Everyone swears, roy mustang is a shit, no relationships.. for now, but hawkeye is a lesbian - fact, kain fuery is baby, i just really liked fuery and wanted him in a fic is that too much to ask, Edward gets his alchemy back, but also gets back his automail arm, lan fan never gets any credit either, everyone gets sent back to their bodies from the Promised Day

read it on the AO3 at https://ift.tt/2t5DtdC