Chapter 1: Ruler in Liore

...CONSTRUCTING FIGURE. PROCESSING CLASS: SERVANT RULER. IMPLANTING CONSCIOUSNESS. MEMORY OF _.

A giant gate with towering pillars in between, golden energy spiraled around it. A strange picture resembling a tree marked upon the tablet-like doors. A white figure sat beside it.

"Another one huh?" The white figure spoke. "Oh. You're just like him then. I hope you'll be just as interesting. Go right on ahead! I can't wait to see how this blows up."

The gate opens, and all went white.

INITIATING SUMMARIZATION OF THE WORLD.

A tsunami of information swarms the mind of what can only be described as a "spirit." Introduced with visual live feed of the world she will soon arrive to. She has been given her identity, ultimately, she is this figure. She held the memories of her life up to her demise. No regrets, even if her ending was sad. Her position is clear. She will act as it is requested. She will be neutral in her role, and she will uphold order.

The understanding of the world, though complex, was simple enough to grasp by the word if not the meaning, and with ease, she was able to determine that this world was not her home, she is in an entirely different dimension.

"-Alchemy: the science of understanding, deconstructing, and reconstructing matter. However, it is not an all-powerful art. It is impossible to create something out of nothing. If one wishes to obtain something, something of equal value must be given. This is the law of equivalent exchange; the basis of all alchemy. In accordance to this law, there is a taboo among alchemists. Human transmutation is strictly forbidden. For what could equal the value of a human soul?"

INITIATING SEARCH.

The entire world is shown.

SEARCHING…

A destination is pinpointed within a country; the country name Amestris.

SEARCH COMPLETE. COMPATIBILITY: 92%. PHYSICAL CAPABILITIES: ACCEPTABLE. SPIRITUAL STRENGTH: ACCEPTABLE. PERSONALITY: ADJUSTABLE. APPEARANCE: ADJUSTABLE.

HOST CONFIRMED. BEGIN CONTACT.

The city of Liore is bustled with warm-welcomed folks, living normal lives and the majority of all following the faith of Letoism, dedicated to worshipping the Sun God Leto for his promised gift of miracles. A large church resigns at the center of Liore, a castle-like structure that towers over houses not only for its size, but the air of holiness vast enough to swarm the heart of the faithful with glee the moment they step inside.

Of course, such blind adoration is enough to fool the unquestionable.

That is the circumstance of one girl. Her name is Rose Thomas. Her bangs strawberry pink, and black locks of hair falling over her shoulders. Eyes closed to focus her thoughts alone, she knelt in plea with her hands clasped together, in front of an altar with a figure of an old man holding up the staff of the sun stationed there; representing Leto. A round window of painted glass above him, the ray of daylight mixing with colors of the fragile artwork enters the room, showering Rose as if to comfort her in her usual moment of hopeful requests that carries subdued lament.

"Please, bring him back to me..." She prayed, her voice soft and her tone faint with anticipation, akin to desperation. It hadn't been long since the death of her fiancé. At the time of the tragic event, Rose's spirit had crumbled, she had believed she could never piece herself back together. Her anguish too great and her grief pulling her broken heart apart and scattering them. She would have lay on the ground as if she were dead were it not for Father Cornello. Her rescuer who revealed her his proof of miracles.

His power was first speculated as Alchemy, a mystical science with logical means that does not rely on a powerful living force, common in Amestris, but he promises that it was no such thing, that his work is a gift from God and that his ability is limitless. Rose needn't an explanation(although science is not her strong suit to begin with so she would not know the difference), she believed it was true Miracles at the works, and when he promises to return her lover back to life, she latched onto his offered hand instantaneously. A light in the cold darkness of her heart, she had reason to live again.

So long as she prays to Leto continuously, so long as she believes in Father Cornello, then one day she will see her lover again. Ask and you shall receive the priest swore.

There were no winds in the church. All the windows and doors were closed, so it was a startle for Rose to hear the chimes of the bells hanging near the altar tap against each other, moved by an unseen force. A light, aimless music that quickly faded as it begun, and a strange sensation tickled her skin.

"Is someone there?" Rose pressed her hands against her chest. Remaining her position, she looks at the entire room. No one was here, and yet, something definitely is. Her eyes return upon the statue. This sensation tells her that something was there, in front of her.

"Don't be afraid."

What she perceived as the statue itself speaking, Rose sharply intakes a breath. She controlled the fright in her beating heart and stared, stunned. Had her prayers finally been heard?

"Are you an angel? Or...are you the Sun God Leto?" She questioned, hardly containing her joy. This was it! Father Cornello was right! She will see her lover again!

"No," the invisible guest gently said.

Rose growing smile quickly died. "What? Then, who are you?" Fear and doubt came to her, but she held herself strong in order to listen from this spirit. Whoever this is, surely there is a reason why she is being spoken to, and this voice was calm, nothing that tells the faithful teen is in danger.

"I am not an Angel. Nor am I this...Leto," the voice that was undoubtedly female had a certain tone as if the name Leto was strange, which confused the dedicated follower. "I am a spirit of a sort. I've come to you because I need your help."

A spirit asking for her help? Oh my...

The spirit began to explain, "There is a war waiting to commence, a war between Masters and Heroes."

Rose listened to the spirit's entire explanation. Her story was fantastical and terrifying. A war in secret, all for a miracle in the form called the Holy Grail. It was surreal but Rose could not doubt, surely this must be a test sent by God, to see how strong her resolve was. She must listen if she wishes to prove herself as a dedicated follower, and then, she must hear whatever it is the spirit needed her with.

"I as the mediator must uphold order for the war, and see to it that its progress will be done properly. However, for whatever reason, I cannot physically form into this world, I need a body." The spirit was troubled, by her voice she must be frowning, "What I am asking is nothing to take light of. In order for me to exist on this plane, I ask for us to combine."

"Combine?" Rose presses for further elaboration, genuine confusion as oppose to suspicion.

The spirit hesitated before finally saying, "I need your body. By accepting me, I will take control and move on my own using your limbs. You will be safe, I promise you. Even if I were killed, your body will remain unharmed and will be instantly transported to safety."

Rose looked to her knees in thought, the weight of the request was nothing to take light of. This spirit is asking to take possession of her, the thought of it was frightening and yet, how could she say no? She's been asked for help by a being from heaven, not to mention, this may be her only chance for her deceased boyfriend to return. Wouldn't giving herself to this spirit be enough for her to be rewarded? She only needed a moment to comprehend everything she had been told. In the end, she made her decision. "I understand."

"Then..."

Rose lifts her head, an adoring smile complementing her features, "Yes...I will help you." If this is the will of God, a testament of Rose's conviction by allowing this spirit to take possession, she will accept her without question. Even though this may seem unconventional, such thoughts did not worry the faithful girl, she is sure that her total devotion will have her reunite with her loved one. "Use me as you will."

The complete faith this girl released was admirable, the spirit smiled. Rose quietly gasped when she felt warmth surrounding her clasped hands as if someone holds them. It was soft, somewhat firm, but very comforting. The girl steeled her heart, determined to face through this with bravery.

"What is your name?" The spirit asked while testing to see how willing the girl is to let her in. She will not force her, and she will be gentle.

"Rose Thomas." Warmth spreads throughout every fiber of the girl's being as the spirit slowly takes over, it was something that can be mistaken as immense joy and enlightenment, it was holy-like though as the spirit had said she was not a divine being.

Rose would call her as someone pure. A girl who fought for what she believes in. "What about you?"

As the merge between them continues, light as bright as the sun blinded her but it was not painful, and through this light she saw the face of the spirit. She looked around the same age as Rose, but with hair blonde like the golden sun, yet humble in tone. Ruffled loose bangs with her long hair tied in a single thick braid. Her eyes like a pair of aquamarine with a soft violet tint.

The spirit smiles, her pale hand outstretched, offered for Rose to take like an angel reaching out for the meek. The devoted girl grasped it with eagerness, thus their contract and her permission to be a host official.

"I am Jeanne D'Arc."

The doors of the church opens, a rhythm of an armor shifting as it moved resounds the room, and simple footsteps in boots that walked beside the louder person. This was not the first time the newcomers had ever been to a church, it was however the first time they entered this place in Liore. Travelers would be the common assumption for who these two people were, but there is more to them than what they may openly reveal, for they concealed their tragic past well.

The Fullmetal Alchemist Edward Elric, and his Fullbody Armored brother Alphonse enters the scene.

They were here on a possible lead for their personal mission, with one brother a State Alchemist - a form of authority with alchemy abilities to manipulate matter and one who will act when an injustice occur. Not that the golden eye boy care much for just righteousness, he has his own goal, and being a State Alchemist helps him on his quest along with his brother. Through their journey they dealt with corrupt figures, illegal experiments, and fought wanted criminals. They were the youngest pair ever to assist the military, even for being in their teen years, they were still children.

Walking further inside the room of gray walls made from stone, the polished floor made of marble, sturdier than glass. Two rows of benches lined up towards the end, where the large statue of Leto stands. A girl is found kneeling before the altar, her dark hair reaching pass her waist, the edge of her strands gilded.

"So this is Leto?" Edward announced their presence.

Calmly, the girl looked behind her. She was a young woman, appearing to be around sixteen years of age. Her ruffled pink bangs held a blonde tint. Her eyes like a pair of gems dipped in the sea, a hint of lavender petal floats in them. There was a beauty about her that speaks humility and naivety, yet held an understanding with the world and experience that combats with this.

"Oh, hello." The girl stood up, greeting the brothers with a friendly smile, "Is there something I can help you with?"

"We're looking for Father Cornello," Edward explained, "Can you take us to him?"

"Father Cornello..." She repeated the name, as if unsure who this person was, which would have been strange since she is here in the Church of Leto, and practically everyone in Liore knows of the "priest." Her eyes lit up in recollection, "Oh yes. He should be in his office."

Take the door ten feet away from you. Down the hall you will reach another room, then take the stairs.

Silently grateful of the memories belonging to Rose, the girl now known as Jeanne steps down from the altar, "Please follow me."

The brothers did. As they follow the girl down a new hall, Edward studied her in mild curiosity.

"Are you a follower?" He presumes to question.

Jeanne took a moment before answering, "Not particularly. A friend had introduced to me to this place, but I'm actually planning on leaving this city soon. Which means I must speak to Father Cornello as well."

"You've seen Cornello's work?"

The girl frowned, "Yes, I have." Through the memory of Rose, she saw the power Cornello had casted, but there was something about this claim of his, she felt that there was something wrong. What's more, this man promised having the ability to resurrect the dead. He had only proved himself capable in small things such as ignoring Equivalent Exchange, a law that is a norm in this land, and yet these small things are enough for all the people of this city to follow this man.

It was suspicious. She would like to speak to Cornello about her departure and begin preparations for her journey, but there is another matter she would like to clear up now that his "miracles" have come to her attention. What was he really doing?

"You believe he can raise the dead?"

She hummed, truly there were stories of some people who had that capability, but there was one man in her world's history who has accomplished such feats; he was the Son of God after all. She has her doubts though that this priest have such powers. The girl answers honestly, "I'm not sure the extension of Cornello's power, but for a mortal man to claim he has this ability yet has not shown proof. I'll admit, I'm a little worried."

She fears that this man is a fraud, how many people in this city has he fooled?

"Huh, well this is a start," Edward said, smiling slightly, "Here I figured that every person in Liore follows that guy without question. Sure he ignores Equivalent Exchange but there's got to be a logical reason behind what he does. Not only that, but there's no way can anyone resurrect the dead."

He certainly sounds like he knows it all, Jeanne responded, "Hm, well, I wouldn't say it so certainly. Miracles do often happen."

She heard his footsteps slow down to a stop, the clanking of armor ceased as well. Jeanne halted, curiously facing the teen and his bodyguard?

"You're saying it's possible." The shorter boy's statement was blatant rather than it was a question.

"Of course," the girl said. She spoke without hesitation, and it was without blind acceptance either. She said it as if it were a fact. A faithful young woman. "There are instances of miracles happening due to the passion of the believer by prayer alone, and though it may not happen to everyone, to say that it never happens would not be correct. Even the dead is not limited this."

Edward stared into the eyes of the girl, after this brief moment he reaches into the pocket of his red coat and takes out a small book. The girl watches in wonder as he wordlessly opens the material to what was thought to be a random page.

"Water, 35 liters; carbon, 20 kilograms; ammonia, 4 liters; lime, 1.5 kilograms; phosphorus, 800 grams; salt, 250 grams; saltpeter, 100 grams."

"Um..." Neither Jeanne who was in control or the knowledge of Rose knew what this boy was saying, it was obvious that what he spoke was science, which is not either girl's greatest strength. She felt a bit overwhelmed at what could have been random things he's spouting to actually be something more sensible to him and possibly the person beside him.

"You know what these are?" Edward asked rhetorically as he sees the confusion in the girl's eyes. "They're the material makeup of a human body, calculated for one adult. With our science now, we know that much, but there has never been one reported case of a successful human transmutation actually taking place. So I'm a little curious how a simple thing like praying can do what science can't."

Jeanne remained quiet, unflinching.

"You know a kid could buy these ingredients down at the market without questions asked? Who knew making humans can be so cheap?" He shut his book closed and returned it back into his pocket, "I'm an Alchemist, and in our line of work, we don't rely on God or such. If anything, what we do may be something close to being gods ourselves. That's pretty ironic, don't you think?"

He spoke more so mockingly than he is being arrogant, whether he's hoping to make a reaction or sought to speak his mind to wake up this possibly blind believer. There was some admiration towards believers who follows without question, but to not question at all may lead them fall in a ditch they didn't think to look and see. To be so blunt and dismissive of this girl's answer is a favor he's doing to help her think more, otherwise she'll face a crushing blow from life, as is reality. Surprisingly, the girl hasn't blown up in defense as of yet, which was something he always gets with people who are firm in their beliefs.

"And we have good reason not to rely on prayers for a guy who might not even hear us. You think with the world going through hell, he could lend a hand more often-"

"Brother..." Alphonse stopped his brother to say any more. He's worried that this girl is going to kick them out in anger before they would meet Cornello, but she's been very quiet for someone whose beliefs were just mocked.

Apart from her surprise at the voice coming from the armor(he sounded much younger than she could have guessed him to be), Jeanne patiently heard the words of the boy with a clear thought and reasoning. Truthfully, she was surprised. If Rose was conscious and taken charge of her body, she would have been outraged, but Jeanne was more controlled, and beneath this boy's mocking she hears, there seems to be something more, and if her guess is correct, he's seen more troubles in the world to give reason why he feels the need to antagonize God. From his calm evaluation, he's quite passionate really.

Without any anger or judgment, Jeanne closed her eyes and smiles, "You are a very smart boy, I'll give you that."

The boy blinked, not the response he expected.

"I have no knowledge of the curriculum you study, but I can understand that it has led humanity through many discovery. I truly respect that. I would like to say though, that without our Lord, there would not be an earth for anyone to uncover it's wondrous secrets, and to know everything is a difficult thing to achieve," Her eyes softened. "I wish you the best in your studies, but I do hope that you will avoid any feeling of arrogance. The feats of science, whatever it may reach, does not make any man like or better than God."

Edward hadn't figure to hear her calm rebuke, that was honestly mature of her. "Arrogance huh, that reminds me of the story about a boy who wanted to escape a city, so his dad created him wings. He ended up getting too close to the sun, and came down hard," his smile returns, feigning humility as he placed his white-gloved hand on his heart, "I had suffered the burning a long time ago, but do you think that even a sinner like me can be forgiven?"

Jeanne saw through his act, though she cannot say the same for his claim of being "burnt." She answered honestly, "Not in Letoism. If you're truly interested, I'll be happy to direct you on the path towards the Lord."

Not that Edward plans to any time soon, especially for a boy who like Icarus, had something taken due to his arrogance.

They reached the end of the hallway. Guards were stationed between the two-way large doors. One door was pulled open, walking out was a middle-aged man in an outfit that signifies him working in the church - briefing through Rose's memories, Jeanne learned this man to be the Assistant Pastor. He looked as she approached and smiled at her in greeting.

"Ah, Rose! Who have you brought along?"

The girl opens her mouth to respond, only to realized that she hadn't even received the boys names. She turns around to face the visitors, sheepishly she said, "I actually haven't got their names yet."

"I'm Edward," the boy of golden irises introduced himself before pointing with his thumb to the person in armor, "This is my little brother Alphonse."

Jeanne blinked, the assistant was just as surprised. "Little...brother...?" The girl imagined dotted lines measuring Edward and Alphonse. "I would have thought it was the other way around."

"WHAT DID YOU SAY?!" Edward could not control his temper, he never could control his temper when his short height is mentioned. Alphonse quickly detained his brother, wrapping with his armored arms around the boy's waist and held him back as the State Alchemist viciously reaches for the girl who simply did not know better, proceeding to kick the air. "YOU CALLING ME LITTLE?!"

"Brother! She didn't mean to make fun of you!" The armored brother tried to reason.

Jeanne was taken aback, etching away a few millimeters, "I did not mean to offend in anyway, I just...well..."

He was short, so Jeanne had assumed him to be the youngest.

"Go on, say it. I dare you..." The Fullmetal Alchemist darkly imposed, a warning under the layer.

Jeanne wisely chose not to. Note to self: Never point out this boy's height. Ever. Though she will pray that he will one day come to be content with his stature.

"...So, have you come to see Father Cornello?" The Assistant Pastor questioned. The State Alchemist stopped his fussing and listened. "It's not surprising that people wish to speak with him. You've been blessed, he has an opening in his schedule to meet the both of you but only for a brief moment."

"Really now?" Edward smirked, "Perfect. Take us to him."

Though Jeanne has her own priority to meet with Cornello in order to announce her leave, she was curious about the brothers objective. Have they come to test this man's "gift?" The more she thought about Cornello's promise, the more her heart is tampered with unease. She has envisioned his smile and acknowledged his part in rescuing Rose from her utter despair after losing all those she had loved - mercy on her soul.

The front that Cornello had displayed to Rose, Jeanne felt that it had all been an act, then again, she needed to see Cornello himself before she would have an opinion. Besides, she is Ruler, a neutral Servant who must only focused on the war's stability, clearly there was something amiss happening in the war if Jeanne had to possess a body rather than be summoned normally as any Servant would. She must not get herself involved with matters that strays from her goal. And yet, can she really turn away from this? The priest that holds the city by his promise of supposed legitimacy?

The two doors were pushed open by the guards, the Pastor Assistant with Jeanne and the brothers enters the new room. No sunlight reaches here, the torches hung by the pillars their only source of light, the flames creating an orange hue of the place.

"We won't take long, just got a couple of questions for Father Cornello," Edward said.

"Yes, of course," The Pastor Assistant said as they went further into the large room. "Let's end this as quickly as we can."

The guards behind them hastily shuts the door to lock. Men sprung out of hiding behind the pillars and quickly surrounded the brothers, trapping them with their spears.

Jeanne was startled by the sudden aggression towards these boys, and witnessed the Pastor Assistant pulling out a pistol from his pocket and locked his target on Edward. The brothers were calm but their guard was up, ready to defend themselves.

"What is the meaning of this?" Jeanne may have been planning to possibly stay out of whatever conspiracy is transpiring here, but she cannot sit idle by while the boys lives are in danger. What had these brothers done to be pointed at by this many weapons? They have done nothing wrong in her eyes.

"Stay back Rose!" The Pastor Assistant advices, "These people threaten to ensnare the Father. They're heathens!"

Edward smirks once more, "Well, like you said," he grabbed the wood of the one of the guard's spear, "Let's end this quickly!" He pulled the surprised guard in and struck him with a kick, a very hard kick as if the man was hit by a hefty hammer, and sent him flying. He took advantage of the men's surprise and swiftly broke the staffs of their weapons by his right grip alone. His brother Alphonse assisted him, being a shield to his brother's back as he punches a guard square in the jaw.

The Pastor Assistant was shocked at how quickly the brothers - let alone one kid, are taking down the men. In his moment of stunned awe and fear, Alphonse punches him in the nose and the gun slipped from his hand. It clattered against the floor, thankfully not going off, and slid across until it tapped against Jeanne's feet. The girl barely noticed this, her focus on the scene before her. These boys certainly aren't helpless.

All the men were incapacitated, the Elric Brothers stood victorious.

"What is all this racket?"

Those who still stood looks towards the top of the stairs, where a man in a black priest robe revealed himself. An elderly man with little hair over his head, and a face that feigns kindness, having a self-conceited air as if others are lesser than him. Father Cornello.

"Oh, it's you two," he spoke as if he was surprised to see them. He smiled, a warm welcoming that hides his deviousness, "Welcome Fullmetal Alchemist, to our sacred order. I am deeply sorry for the disrespect my followers have caused."

Edward huffs in disinterest, "It's no trouble at all, and I doubt a man who looks down on us would really feel sorry."

Father Cornello continues, "Is there a reason for your arrival?"

"Of course, you won't find me coming to church often. First off," his golden eyes pierces, "How do you use your cheap alchemy that manages to fool all the people in Liore?"

Jeanne's eyes narrows at the priest.

"How dare you! My work is a gift from God, I will not stand for your accusation and comparison to my work as your wretched Alchemy," his smile widens, teeth showing, "If anything, my power far surpasses yours!" He pressed his hands together, red sparks scatters and reacted with strange magic at the works. A mini statue of himself is formed in his palm. "There, can your alchemy reach feats like this?"

Edward hummed in thought, grabbing his own chin, "That's the weird thing about what you're doing. How can you perform transmutation while ignoring the laws of equivalent exchange?"

"Because it's not Alchemy!"

Edward ignores the priest, "Then I realized, if you were to have something powerful, something that's heard in legends, an item that's able to display vast amounts of power and substitute the laws of Alchemy, you can make the impossible, possible." He glares at the priest, "Something like…The Philosopher's Stone."

The boy points to the ring on Cornello's finger, "That's what you ring has, right? Give it here."

"This is just an ordinary ring. My powers are from God himself!"

"Not complying huh? I guess I'll just have to beat you down and take it!" Edward started walking towards Cornello.

The priest scowled at the boy, "It seems you are far beyond repentance you heathen," he looked to the girl who had been silently evaluating everything happening in front of her, and smiled again. "Rose."

The girl looked to the old man.

"Pick up that gun, won't you?"

Edward stopped, quickly glancing at the girl. Alphonse gasped quietly behind his helmet.

Jeanne then finally noticed the gun by her foot, she did nothing for a brief moment, and then knelt down. Her fingers clenches around the handle and lifts the weapon from the ground.

"Good. Now go ahead and shoot these boys."

Edward gritted his teeth. Alphonse looked on in shock. Although this girl exclaims her odd standing of Letoism, for Cornello to ask of this must mean that she is somewhat devoted to him, and is using her devotion against them. She was just a bystander, they don't want to actually harm this misguided believer.

The girl stared at the gun without expression. She did not move, nor spoke.

"What's wrong Rose? Have you forgotten?" Father Cornello's true colors is shown, his grin stretched into that of a truly sadistic egomaniac, "When you lost your fiancé, who was it that saved you from the pit of despair? Who showed you the way of enlightenment and gave you hope?"

No response.

"My word is God's word. This is the will of God. Do it Rose! Or are you doubting my promise to bring your lover back to life? If you want to see him again, then shoot these boys!"

Jeanne has heard and seen enough. She placed the gun back down, "No."

Such a simple word, yet it was like a train had collided with Cornello. The priest stumbled, his grin gone and he looked on in bafflement. He had assumed Rose to hesitate but in the end, she was naïve, and so easy to fool, taking Cornello at his every word as the truth and he had confidence she would listen and follow through, she would do anything for the return of a loved one he knew he could never bring back. This was such a sudden change in character!

"W-What?"

Releasing the weapon, Jeanne stood with her back straight, her eyes hardened at Cornello. "No," she said again. "I had considered there to be something about your power to be a chance of misguided good will. But your arrogance is clear by your words alone. Father - No. Cornello. You are nothing but a false prophet!"

Another collision. Cornello was stunned beyond words to rebuke her statement. He did not expect it! What of her blind obedience? Her will to do anything he says like she promised! Had she come to see through his act? But that can't be! She was beyond faithful of his lies this morning! This…

Cornello blinked, and he finally saw who he was actually speaking to. He sees the face of Rose, but her hair had a slightly different style, and it seemed to have a gold's edge to her strands. Her eyes, the irises was of a color entirely different from her usual brown pair. This…This was not Rose.

Sweats pours down his wrinkled face as he, with a dry throat, questioned nervously, "Who are you?"

Edward watched the girl mildly impressed, until he heard Cornello asking a strange question. He looks at the stunned fake priest who just a moment ago seemed absolutely certain his attempt to manipulate the girl would work, and back at said girl who defied his expectations. He heard the girl's name was Rose, yet Cornello was asking who she was, like he was looking at a person he had never met before. The Alchemist's eyes narrowed.

What the hell is going on?

Jeanne was passed patience and a reasonable amount of displeasure surfaced through her furrowed brows. This man fooled the entire city, and tricked the girl she's currently possessing in her moment of grief. This innocent girl who genuinely wanted nothing more but the return of her lover. Instead of helping her move on from her grievances, this false priest used her emotions for his own hidden ambitions.

Jeanne is an honest and accepting girl, and though she would love everyone no matter who they are, she does not go blind to any wrong actions they may do. Thus, she cannot keep herself out of this, and Cornello's words that stirred her controlled passion would have her voluntarily interfere against him anyhow.

"I am Jeanne D'Arc. I, who have heard the voice of God, will not stand by while you continue to use the name of the Lord for your own gain! Cornello, I offer you a choice, reveal yourself to the public, display the truth of your lies and repent!"

Edward looked to Alphonse, who shares his brother's confusion. The armored Alchemist noisily shrugs, "I have no idea what's going on brother."

For a moment, Cornello really wanted to do what Jeanne told him to do. But why? This was nothing more than a girl! How could…how could he feel so captured and shaken by her charisma! Charisma he didn't even knew Rose could have, otherwise solidifying his theory that this really wasn't the meek, foolish girl he had deceived. But no matter her words, his stubborn nature and refusal to reveal his true self to the people of Liore (such actions will have him be hanged by the angered citizens) had him glued his feet in place, and he glared at the girl.

"Jeanne you say? Well, whoever the hell you think you are, you'll regret defying me!" He reaches for a lever from the wall and pulled it down.

The wall beneath him revealed a secret door, lifting itself in a heavy crumble, dust falls like streams. Red eyes pierces through the darkness, and a monster walks out. A creature with mixed animal genes evident to it's contradicting physical features. A lion's front with wild brown mane apart from a single dirty blonde streak, his bottom half depicts the feet of a bird and feathers like so, and a long reptilian tail.

"A chimera…" Edward said the name of what this being is.

"What a horrible thing to do with a Philosopher's stone," Alphonse commented. It is not the first time the brothers came across monsters like these, and Edward has dealt with more competent rogue Alchemists. This should be easy.

"Now my creature, tear these insolent brats apart!" Cornello demanded and pointed at Jeanne, "I say start with her!"

Edward calls out to her, "Get out of here!" He claps his hands together and pressed one palm against the floor, blue lights sparks beneath his hand and he raises it, creating a spear made out of the matters of the floor.

"We'll cover you!" Alphonse joins in, running to his brother's side.

But Jeanne did not move, which resounded a growl of frustration from Edward. Why isn't she running? This girl can't think she could take this monster on. Sure this is just a low-level creature but it's still dangerous to a civilian like her. She should just scram already!

And then he saw a surprising sight. The creature gazes at the girl and had planned to follow through it's master's orders, but one look at the girl name Jeanne, and it froze.

Sweat drips from its fur in agitation and fear. Its multiple instincts screaming at him that this girl is not to be trifled with. She looked weak, easy to devour, but its instincts warned that should it attack her, it will be killed. There was a strength about her so loud it drew the monster to slowly back away.

"What are you doing?! I said attack!"

Even with its master ushering him a second time, the monster knew he was weak as oppose to the girl, he could not attack her and expect to survive.

"Its…backing away from her…" Alphonse was at a lost. Why is this monster acting like the girl is the bigger predator here? Was there something about her that made the creature afraid? But how could that be? She looked like a normal girl.

The chimera averts his eyes to the two alchemist, it glanced at Jeanne once more before deciding the better course of action. Kill the two boys who it feels are no threat. Easy picking in comparison.

The monster lunged at them.

Edward threw the spear to attack the chimera, but the beast's claws broke through it like brittle twigs.

"Brother!" Alphonse went in front of Edward and took the impact of the monster, grabbing it's sides.

"I got your back Al!" Edward clapped his hands together again and pressed the floor, instead of summoning another weapon, a block shot up in front of Alphonse, ramming against the beast like a huge fist. The chimera's claws was able to chip under the chin of Alphonse' helmet, knocking it off his body before the creature crashed to the ground.

Shaking it's head and quickly getting up, the Chimera comes after the stumbling armored brother, but Edward shielded Alphonse and raises his right arm. Sharp teeth enclosed the boy's arm, tearing through his red sleeve. It's weight pushed Edward, but he held his ground enough to only skid back by a foot.

The chimera's clawed foot scrapes against Edward's pants as it deepens it's bite, its prey was done for. It had a venomous snake part of its genes, it won't be long before the boy is paralyzed. However, the chimera knew instantly that something was wrong. It did not taste the blood that should spill from biting into the boy's skin, and more importantly, the chimera should have felt its teeth meeting flesh. Instead, it was like biting into a rock.

The chimera met Edward's gleaming mischievous eyes, "What's wrong kitty? Not a good taste for you?" Edward fiercely kicks the creature in the stomach, the chimera was sent flying, it's claws had only been able to shred the sleeve and some of the left leg of Edward's pants.

Cold steel shone in the glow of the torches, the golden-eyed Alchemist right arm and left leg were entirely metal with workings of mechanical complexity that helps substitute his movements with heavy ease.

The chimera did not take accounted the prosthetics the boy would have, but overconfident that it would still win if he attacked more ferociously, he stood back up, ignoring the pain, and lunges again with a roar.

It's roar turned to a cry when Jeanne dashed in front of Edward and swung her silver sword. The beast was able to defend itself by raising its arm, but Jeanne's strength as a Servant was amazing. She deeply scarred the monster and sentenced it to the pillars with a shout. The chimera's back suffers as it hit against the pillar and fell. Losing all the strength and will to get back up, whimpering pathetically.

Edward gaped at the girl who had suddenly came in front of him and was able to make a single attack on the monster on her own. He didn't think she had such strength. In addition, where did she get a sword like that?

"Are you two alright?" Jeanne turned her head to meet Edward, her eyes fell upon his substitute limbs in surprise before looking at Alphonse, and gasped.

The armored body of Alphonse pushes himself back up, reaching to rub his head, only to find that his helmet had fallen off. The interior of his suit was revealed, devoid of any person, only a small red circular design marked in old blood was visible.

"There's…no one inside," Jeanne stared, astounded. Edward paid no more mind to her and went to collect his brother's head.

"You okay Al?" Edward picked up the helmet and tossed it. Alphonse caught it easily, thanking the older sibling.

Cornello had watched all this in frustration and disbelief, but regardless of the capabilities the Elric brothers are able to do with one not needing to create a transmutation circle, and the girl's shocking display of strength, it was pushed aside when he saw the armored boy that is without a boy inside, "A soul bounded to a suit of armor?" Cornello closed his dropped jaw, looking the two brothers in a quick assessment.

A living armor, a boy missing his arm and leg. He grinned evilly, "I see. Look upon this Rose or whoever you are, these boys you've protected are beyond unrepentant sinners. They had performed the greatest taboo among Alchemists!"

Jeanne looked at the false priest, silently questioning his spiel.

"In their arrogance, they tried to play God, and lost their body and limbs! They've attempted Human Transmutation!"

Human Transmutation - the scientific act of bringing someone back from the dead. Jeanne had gathered this from her arrival in the world. A great taboo with a heavy price even though in the end it led only to failure. She looked at the two boys speechlessly, eyes widening not in horror but in great compassion. These boys have suffered greatly, even though it is due just that they tried to play God, her heart goes out to them without resistance.

Alphonse adjust his head back on before speaking, "Please Father Cornello. Just give us the Philosopher's Stone."

Cornello huffed as if it was the most ridiculous request, "Why? So you can use it for yourself? You deserved your wretched forms as far as I can see." He grips his cane, the red gem on his ring glowed, "But since you are so eager to play God, I might as well send you military dogs to him!" He transform his cane into a machine gun, grinning manically as he aimed at the brothers and Jeanne, "As for you girl, you defended those pair of heathens! For your blasphemy and betraying the Sun God Leto, you will share their fate!"

Edward showed no fear, "Sorry, but me and God aren't on the best terms, he'll just turn me away." He clapped and brought both his hands to the ground, a wall rises in front of him, his brother and Jeanne. Defending them from the hail of bullets that begins to eat away the makeshift wall with every hit. Jeanne steps away from the defense that was spilling hot sparks and dust, shielding her eyes with her hand. This man shows no sense of care, he would truly kill them.

A hand grasped onto hers, the girl looked to the State Alchemist who ushers her, "Come on! We're getting out of here!" He pulls her along, leaving the soon destroyed wall, and running to the doors as Alphonse becomes their shield. Edward figured the doors that they just came were locked so he simply used his Alchemy and proceeds to blow it apart.

Followers that were in the hall had heard the noises that brought them concerns, and were shocked off their balance when one of the doors in the hallway were blasted off, with three teenagers running out. Cornello had come out, ordering his followers to chase the proclaimed heathens who planned to spite the order. Adding to not hesitate when they see "Rose", claiming her to be a traitor beyond forgiving.

The followers, though shocked at "Rose's" involvement, obeyed Cornello's orders.

The Elric brothers and Jeanne turned to different corners constantly, though with Jeanne leading, they quickly got the hang of it due to her memory of Rose's memorization of every path inside the church. However, they came across Cornello's misguided followers, all with their rifles and aiming at the claimed heretics.

"Please wait! You have all been deceived!" Jeanne attempts to reason, Alphonse had saved her from damage when the followers started shooting and became the body shield again.

"They're not going to listen, not while believing in that crack priest," Edward tells it to her straight, taking her to another hallway as Alphonse follows behind. The game of many angry cats and three mice continues, the brothers and Jeanne reached to the part of the church that isn't running with gun blazing believers, at their moment to take breaths, Edward releases Jeanne's hand, "I got to say, you're braver and a lot stronger than I took you for," he said, not much admitting as he studies the girl in curiosity, mixed with small suspicion.

Jeanne clears her throat, "Anyhow…" She decided not to explain her great strength, she can't reveal herself as something called a Servant, they'll only ask more questions and it will lead to the reveal of the Holy Grail War which is supposed to remain a secret. "We seem to be near Cornello's office. Though I can't say how long we can remain until this hall is searched. I believe that even the citizens of Liore will hunt you down," she mentions sadly before dawning with determination, "You boys have to escape this city. I know a route we can take to avoid the eyes of everyone."

"We can't leave," Alphonse says, "Not without the Philosopher's Stone."

Edward perks at the mention of the false priest office. Gaining an idea, he looks to his brother, "Al, I need you to take this girl somewhere to hide."

"What are you going to do?"

Edward smiles assumingly to his brother, "Don't worry about it. Just get her to safety."

"I can help," Jeanne offers. Edward only glanced at her before turning away and started walking.

"I got this, you'll just get in the way," although he admits this girl to be strong, Edward knows he can handle this himself. She wouldn't help much either with what he plans to do.

"But-" Jeanne shrieked when Alphonse lifts her by her side.

"Sorry miss! I got to take you elsewhere!" Alphonse carries the girl with his right palm under her knees and his other hand supporting her back. Jeanne's protest was ignored as Alphonse ran once more.

They reached outside on a balcony, high at the church's roof where they see all of Liore. Just as Jeanne predicted, the people in the city were in disarray, savagely searching for the three heretics. Tearing apart the city walls itself just to look for them. This sight brought sadness to Jeanne, whether it was hers or Rose did not matter. Jeanne could not believe how far the people have been fooled by the false priest, if they truly sought for the Lord's love, this display of violence was not what he would ask for. The false priest had created a terrible image and perverted the word of the Lord he took as if they were from his own source material.

She settles her hand over her heart, Rose's heart. This woman too, had been fooled by the false priest's promise, a young woman who only wished to see her fiancé again. "I'm sorry," she said to the sleeping Rose.

"Don't be," Alphonse took her apology as if it was aimed for him, "You helped us really, you protected my brother, and stood up against Father Cornello when you knew he was wrong. You were really brave."

The girl looks to the armored boy in contemplation, and then walks up to him. Alphonse was startled by her sudden close proximity and sounded out his uncertainty. Jeanne gently presses her palm against where his heart is, or where it should be.

"What on earth happened to you?" Jeanne questioned, her voice gentle and treading carefully, if he decided not to answer then she will respect that.

Alphonse was silent for a moment, he then removed his helmet. The blood seal marked in zigzags with a curved line at the top visible inside. Once again, she confirmed that this being was hollow, yet still carries a soul. Was this seal the only thing that connects his soul to this suit of armor?

"Our mom died from an illness no one could cure. We were little kids, we didn't know what else to do. We weren't trying to play God," Alphonse started, "We just wanted to see our mom smile again."

She is speaking to a child. Perhaps he is actually teen, but to hear how old he had been when he became what he is now, he could still be that same child that was implanted into this suit of armor. Without a human body, does this mean he is without the human sense such as touch or smell? She can't imagine how that must be like, to live in that state for years.

"But our transmutation failed; I lost my body, and Ed lost his leg. He'd given up his arm just to save me and bound me to this armor with his own blood. We've been on a journey ever since then, looking for a way to reverse what happened to us, and our only hope was this stone that surpasses equivalent exchange."

"The Philosopher's Stone," Jeanne repeated the name the brothers mentioned Cornello has, she removed her hand from Alphonse as the armored boy continues.

"There's not much actual proof of it existing until now, but then again, the missions we go to a couple of times before have always led up to this moment, only to find out that it was just something else than what we were looking for. I like to hope though," Alphonse puts on his helmet again, "We learned the hard way that people don't come back from the dead, ever."

The wind picked up, Jeanne's mixed of black turned brunette and blonde hair dances in the breeze, the long rag tail on Alphonse helmet reacting the same. The boy was unfeeling to the cold touch of the breeze, such is the curse of having a body like this.

"Now, we want to get our bodies back. Even though we may die on this journey, this is the path we chose together, and we won't stop. No matter how long it takes. All we can do is keep moving."

A long silence befell between the two, the sun coming close to the horizon, nearing nighttime.

"You can do anything with the Philosopher's Stone, right? So why waste all that power performing phony miracles?"

The two on the balcony were startled when they heard the voice of Edward resounding through the intercoms. Cornello's voice soon follows.

"Because with each miracle I perform, I can attract new believers to the order. Believers who would lay down their lives for my sake. I am slowly building an army, a legion of holy warriors not afraid to die. In a few more years, I'll be ready to release this mindless horde who I've fooled with my alchemy onto every city, and slowly make my way to the rest of the world. I will cause chaos in this country! Interested boy? I could use a talented alchemist like you in my plans, I'll share a piece of the world with you, while the rest of the fools does my bidding!" The mad priest's laughter broke out.

Jeanne frowns in hearing the man's ploy. So that was it, world conquest by using the mass of citizens who had no battle experience? This plan was doomed to fail even without the brothers intervention, yet with their involvement, this plot will crumble before blood are needlessly spilled.

Edward's laughter cuts off Cornello's, the old man demanded, "What are you laughing at boy?"

"I figured you were dumb, but you're just a novice, aren't you?"

A moment of nothing, and then a gasp. "Is that a…HOW LONG WAS THIS MICROPHONE ON?!"

"Long enough for the entire city to hear."

Jeanne looks down, she spot the citizens standing in place, utterly in shock at the truth revealed unintended by the false priest himself. A great wave of relief washed her, the people have heard the truth, and yet, the look upon them as if their dreams were crushed before their eyes brought a heaviness in her heart. They need to be assured, that this terrible ordeal must not overshadow the true love of the real Father in heaven.

"You little brat-!" The intercom cuts off.

"Your brother is a smart boy indeed," Jeanne described Edward again.

Alphonse gets up, "I better go see if he needs help. Everything should be fine for us now, but just in case, stay right here for a while, okay?"

Jeanne watches Alphonse leave, her contemplation of him and Edward not ceasing as of yet. Two brothers, no one else but each other. They had sinned so greatly as children, and ever since that tragic day, they have fought, bled, and met close calls constantly, all to revert the mistake they regretted making. Jeanne may not know how to help the boys in their mission, but God be willing, they will seek what they are after. She will pray for them and for any chance of peace in their future.

"So the stone's a fake?"

"Yeah, I'm sorry Al. I really thought this was it." The brothers leaves the church through the entrance, the sun halfway down and the sky was complete orange. Edward pats Alphonse's chest with his automail fist, "But we'll find another lead. Don't you worry, it'll be alright."

Though dejected by the news, Alphonse quickly found his optimism for his brother's sake, and nodded, "Yeah, we…"

Alphonse stops, Edward wondered his brother's sudden halt until he looked to where the youngest was looking at. Long hair of brown - previously darker - with golden streaks moves along the wind, the girl gazing at the city below. Jeanne tugged a strand behind her ear and turns to greet the brothers with a smile.

"Has everything gone well for you both?"

Edward blinked before responding, "I can tell you that Father Cornello won't be planning an uprising anytime soon, more like willing to hide from the mob for the rest of his life."

"I see. That is for the best then, I would rather he not be torn apart by the angry mass."

Edward raises an eyebrow, "Seriously? Even after what he did?" His face scrunches, "Don't tell me you're forgiving him!"

"If he wishes to change, I won't deny him forgiveness," Jeanne said sternly, "But that is up to him, and he will need to learn how to cope with his errors before seeking redemption. This path is not denied for any of God's children." She pauses to think, and comes closer to the brothers, pressing her fingers together as she started mildly, "Your brother has told me what happened with your limbs, and what you're planning to do to get them back along with his body."

Edward reacted in shock and shot a look at his brother, "Sh-she asked!" Alphonse said as if that was a good enough explanation and not one that could sent the both of them to prison. "Besides, she already saw me!"

"It's none of her business," Edward spat, his tone low but it was not towards his brother, it was to Jeanne. She had no right to learn that, it was their own personal matter. She shouldn't have pried.

Any word that could have come out from Edward quickly dies when Jeanne takes his automail hand, firmly gripped in a comforting hold, though he would not feel it. He looked on in surprised. The girl continues to smile. "What happened to the both of you was horrible, but I admire your determination to continue moving forward. I hope, and pray that your journey will be with ease and you will accomplish your goal."

Edward looked at his mechanic hand being grasped by Jeanne. For a moment, it seemed as if he was feeling warmth, but that was impossible. He reasoned that it was just a trick to the brain, making him believe that what he thought was feeling is just what he remembered his hand used to feel. He pulls it away, ignoring the dropped temperature, just another trick. "Yeah well, save your prayers. Like I said before, God and me aren't on good terms right now."

"That will not stop me from praying for you," Jeanne said, humorously defiant.

Edward studied the girl yet again, and scratches his head, "You're…really weird."

"Brother!" Alphonse was baffled by his blunt statement.

"I'm just saying!" The State Alchemist looks at Jeanne once more, "You are really weird." There was something about this girl he couldn't understand, there was more to her, something that he wanted to unravel because his instincts are telling him that this girl was…not normal. No, not natural. For some reason, that was the better description, this girl was not natural in his sense. As if she was a complicated problem that he can't solve because it should not exist in this world.

Jeanne blinks, "Am I?" She was not sure of how to respond to that, "I'm afraid there's not much I can do about that then."

This boy is far more keen than she would ever guess.

Edward shakes his head, dismissing his own comment, "Never mind. Forget what I said."

Jeanne contemplated him shortly, and then smiled, "I best be going. I'm actually quite happy to meet you brothers," she goes to Alphonse and takes his hand, praying for him to have a good future, "Take care, the both of you. Of yourself and of each other."

"Of course!" Alphonse happily accepted her words.

"You don't need to tell us that," Edward proudly states.

Jeanne believes them. Releasing herself from Alphonse, she makes one parting statement, "Maybe we'll meet again in the future, until then, I would look forward to seeing the both of you in your true forms." For now, she will go assist the people in Liore to recover. She still needed supplies to gather as well. The brothers were surprised by her statement, and with it, they felt more determined than ever. They nodded at her and bid their goodbyes.

However, when Jeanne had said this, she did not know how soon this would come to be, where they would come together, and under what circumstances. For when they do meet again, she will become more involved with the brothers than her duty as the Ruler Servant entitles her to, just as it will be for the Elric brothers who only sought for a way to restoration, and instead become entangled in a web of conspiracy, corruption, and breaking all that they knew as Alchemists in a war for a wish.

Threats coming from every direction. Allies formed in unexpected ways. Within the sea of pure destruction, heavy losses, and a darkness so evil it beckons to consume everything in it's wake, a beacon of hope as bright as a holy sword will emerge, in more ways than one.

But nothing has truly begun, not until a blade from a cursed red spear pierces the heart of a boy whose wish is for a way to undo his mistake. A boy who chases after a legend akin to a miracle.

In a world that demands equivalent exchange for all, what can be return for a miracle? How far are you willing to go for a wish?