VI: How to make a date:

Thanks to, TaisaXChui, Animelegend, 04JessElric, and AeroRace for the reviews. :D

And thanks to all those who has favorite'd this as well as the alerts.

Author's Note: Thank you for reading the other chapters of How to make a date...And I would like to congratulate all of those, who got the right answer to that silly riddle of mine.

Even those who haven't reviewed, I am well aware that almost everyone who have read it, must've figure it out.

Though it was pretty easy, I did put some thought in it...read to find out, why! :)

Well, Here is Chapter Six, Thank you for reading.

Disclaimer: I do not own any rights on FMA. ( 荒川 弘 ) Hiromu Arakawa sensei does. :D

Chapter Six: The Finale

" There are many beginnings, but there are only two endings. "

- At the Outdoor Cafe -

" There are many beginnings but there will only be two endings..." Edward said as he gazed at the note containing the new riddle, in his hand.

Alphonse looked at him questioningly, " Brother...what does that mean? " He asked as Edward looked at him.

" I don't know...Could it mean that, we can try to use different techniques in solving this? " Edward said as he massage his chin.

Then Winry looked at Edward and asked, " So you mean...There are many ways to solve this? "

Edward nodded, " Yeah. And no matter what we use, there will only be two endings... " He said plainly.

" Two endings? " Ling repeated curiously as Edward smiled at him,

" It's only a hypothesis of mine...But I guess that the two endings would be, One, if we figure it out and the second is, if we do not figure it out? " He said questioningly as he scratched his head with the pen that he's using.

Then Alex nodded, " That is a possibility. " He said as the rest nodded.

" No...that ain't it. But it's close. " Rebecca said teasingly as the others looked at her.

Edward frowned, " I have another hypothesis..." He said lazily as the group looked at him curiously.

Then Edward leaned his head in the table, gloomily.

" My other theory is...that the clue might have been given literally...Like that really is it. " He said lazily.

" But the question remains...Just what is this for? " Edward added. " What must we do? "

" The Brigadier General, really think this through..." Sciezska said as she rested her head on the table, worn out.

" It's really not that hard. " Catherine said as the others looked at her.

" It's even too easy. " Rebecca added as the rest sighed.

" It's too easy that's why it's too hard, since we may not expect it. " Havoc said.

" Very ironic, I must say..." Ross said as she sighed.

" Did the Brigadier General mean that this names are, in order or are they jumbled? " Breda said as everyone looked at him.

" That's another possibilty. " Brosh said as he sighed.

" The Brigadier General really put some thought to this..." Fuery said, smiling as he looked at the white puppy.

The white puppy was laying down on the ground, yawning as she listened to the group. Wagging her tail in amusement.

Fuery petted it as the puppy barked in acknowledgement.

Then Falman read out the contents again,

" Jean, Shou, Scar, Truth, Breda, Edward, Yoki, Olivier, Fu, Rebecca, Sciezska, Elysia, Ling, Fuery. "

Then afterwards, everyone sighed.

" Just what must we do with it? " Havoc asked.

" What you see, defies your eyes. Concentrate and you might realize something. Don't think about it too much, if you're right or wrong. Just trust and belive at yourself. It's important to be who you are... " Olivier said meaningfully.

" So, Major General, Are you saying that we have to be practical about it, Ma'am..? " Falman asked as Olivier nodded.

" The answer is just right in front of your eyes. It's a very simple riddle, Even a child can figure it out. " She added as the others looked at the riddle again.

" So we have to see this...simply? " Edward said as he began writing something that maybe the answer.

The rest of the cluless group also focused themselves.

And after awhile...

" My head is killing me..." Edward said as he scratched his head in frustration.

" Brother, calm down. " Alphonse said as he patted Edward's back.

" Darn that Brigadier General Mustang, making us do this things. The next time I see him...I'll surely punch him in the face! " Edward said as he raised his fist in frustration as Alphonse laughed sheepishly with the rest.

" Speaking of the Brigadier General...Where is he? " Ling asked, looking at Catherine and then to Rebecca.

" Yeah, where do you think they went? " Alex said as he massage his chin looking at his sister.

" Can you tell us? " Paninya asked.

Rebecca looked at the whole group, then she shrugged her shoulders. " I don't really know...The Brigadier General said that they have to pick something up from a special someone..." She said as she took a sip at her tea.

" They're visiting...who? " Edward asked curiously as Rebecca shook her head. " I don't know where. "

" We never asked, It's bad to meddle into someone's privacy, too much. " Catherine said as the others laughed sheepishly.

After all, they are meddling into someone's private affairs.

" I bet the Brigadier General is having fun right now..." Rebecca started,

" He and Ri-...er...R-remembering! He's probably never going to forget about this night and he would probably r-remember this always. " Rebecca said stuttering,

Abruptly changing the subject as she was just about to reveal who Roy's date is.

" Lovely weather tonight, isn't it? " She added so abruptly.

" I don't think so...It looks like it may rain soon..." Lan Fan said as a strong cold breeze passed by them.

Then Mei and Shao Mei snuggled each other to warm themselves up, " Yeah...I think so too. " Mei said as she eyed the redish, starless night sky.

" If it does rain...That darn Brigadier General will look pretty pathetic, in front of his date date. Knowing how useless he is in that kind of weather. " Edward teased as everyone laughed and agreed.

" I doubt that he and Ri-...erm...his date have an umbrella with them. " Rebecca said as the others looked at her and smiled.

" Boy...I would love to see the Brigadier General drenched..." Edward teased as the rest laughed.

" Come on, Brother...Don't be like that. " Alphonse said as Edward grinned.

" Yeah. But I cannot control weather...so wherever he is...I hope that he's indoors. " Edward said as the rest nodded.

Soon the group went on, solving the riddle.

- Roy and Riza -

The trio went their way towards their destination, silently.

Riza saw a lot of tall buildings in the path they were going on ahead. Judging from where they were...It looks like They're in the middle of the city.

Even if it was night, there were many people walking about, and the lights on the lamp posts shine ever so brightly.

Then she eyed the man beside her, he was leading the way, his face showing no signs to tell her where they were going.

Then she eyed Black Hayate, the little dog had his ears pointed up, listening eagerly as his eyes were focused, scanning the area they were in curiously.

Then the black pup noticed that she was looking at him, so he looked back at her and barked once, reassuringly as he wagged his tail.

Riza smiled and looked back at Roy who was still looking up ahead.

She wanted to ask once more where they were going but she remained silent and look at him for awhile.

Then Roy realize that she was staring at him curiously.

Realizing her gaze, he looked at her and flashed a loving smile, " What is it? " He asked curiously.

Riza was still staring at him blankly, then she soon realize that he asked her something as she snapped out of her trance, Roy smiled wider.

She shook her head, " It's nothing, sir...I'm just wondering, where we're going. " She said as Roy smiled reassuringly.

" Don't worry. We're going to see someone who is very important to me. I want you to meet her, the person who I owe a debt of gratitude to. " Roy said eagerly as he looked up ahead at where they were going.

" I have always relied on her, when I needed something. I usually come to her when I need a helping hand and to get some information. " He added as he put his hands on his pockets.

Then he looked back to Riza and smiled, " I had her flee to another country, before the promised day arrived. I promised to pay her back one day, as soon as I become successful. I haven't have the chance to visit her, yet. " Roy said.

" She just came back here a few days ago, in the palacethat I have prepared for her. I wanted to see how she's doing...Also I have something to get from her. " He added as Riza nodded.

" I see, sir...I understand. " Riza said plainly as she closed her eyes and followed besides him.

A cold breeze pass by them, causing Riza to tighten her grip in Roy's coat. Rubbing against it wth her hands.

" It's getting cold again, ain't it Lieutenant Colonel? " Roy suddenly asked.

Riza opened her eyes and looked at him, " Yeah it is...Are you alright with the cold, sir? " She asked concerned, as Roy looked at her and smiled reassuringly.

" Worry not..." He said as his right hand went down and held her left hand.

Riza looked at him, shocked. Roy simply smiled at her.

" I think it may rain soon...I think we should hurry and go to our destination..." Roy said as Riza looked at him, innocently and soon tightened his hold on her, " Yes, sir. " She said as he moved closer to her.

Black Hayate was happily looking at them, holding hand to hand, eagerly wagging his tail as he followed close behind.

Roy was looking at the night sky then he sighed.

" But it really is quite disturbing if it will rain and destroy this wonderful night..." Roy said gloomily.

" It is, sir...but there is no stopping the weather. It's fine with me if it'll drizzle...It's alright to rain. " Riza said as Roy suddenly grinned.

" Unless we get drenched and get sick the next day..." He said jokingly.

Riza looked at him curiously, " Will you get sick so easily with a little rain? " She asked playfully.

Roy looked at her with a raised brow, " Will you not? " He asked curiously.

Riza smiled at him, " I didn't say that...Although I do have strong resistance, I prefer not to get drenched and take chances. " She said as Roy smiled at her.

" Of course...I wouldn't want my most precious subordinate, to get sick. " He said playfully.

" I also don't want you to get sick, sir...It would make you have a valid reason to laze around..." She countered playfully.

Roy frowned at her, then he shrugged and smiled, " Now that I think about it...I would love to get sick so I can lay around lazily. " He said jokingly .

Riza frowned at him, " Really, sir...Getting sick from a little drizzle, won't let you escape work for long...not to mention that sickness can weaken you. " She said concerned.

" But you'll take care of me, right? " Roy said as Riza looked at him, shocked.

" Y-yes? " She managed to say making Roy smile at her, gratefully.

" But I prefer if you don't get sick at all...Brigadier General. " Riza said shyly as she looked away sensing that she had blushed.

" Roger that. Let's both try not to get sick. " Roy said as Riza looked back at him and nodded.

Then they turned to an alley, Riza move back a little closer to Roy, feeling uneasy, as Roy rubbed her hand reassuringly.

And at the end of an alley, was a large building.

Riza eyed the building, it was quite a well decorated building, with colorful plants in front of the porch.

It seems like it was just built, then she noticed the sign that it says that the building is closed.

She was about to speak when Roy beat her to it. " Rest assured, she's here tonight. Quite a lovely building, ain't it? I made this especially for her. It seems like she's still getting ready, It may take some time before it will be open to the public." He said as Riza smiled.

" You made this for her? It's very nice of you." Riza said as Roy laughed sheepishly.

" This is nothing...Because if you must know, I have once blown up her whole palace down...I'm nearly returning my debt. " Roy said.

" You have blown up a whole building? " Riza asked shocked as Roy smiled.

" Well, it was just before the promised day. Before we met up with Fuery and Breda in our underground Hideout..." Roy started as they stopped in front of the porch and looked at the building.

" I came to visit her that night, but we were well aware that we were followed by some soldiers. Realizing that they've now uncovered the truth. I blown up her bar and promised to buy a new one for her after I've become successful...And here it is! " Roy said eagerly as Riza looked around.

She saw that it was a bar, on the sign above the door said; MADAM CHRISTMAS.

" I wanted you to meet her..." Roy started as Riza looked at him curiously.

Roy flashed a smile and spoke, " I want you to meet the person who made me what I am right now, my aunt and foster mother, Chris Mustang. But she prefers to just be called Madame Christmas. "

Riza smiled back as they made their way to the porch.

Then the trio climbed a few steps and Roy knocked on the door.

" Who is it? " A voice called out.

" It's me, Roy! "

" Come in, the door is open. "

Then Roy opened the door, allowing Riza to go in first. Riza smiled and complied, as she went in with Black Hayate following behind.

Soon Roy entered and closed the door behind.

Then they looked at the view, it was a typical bar. But unlike the others that looked vulgar or unpleasant to the eye, this bar has a sense of elegance and delicacy.

Then coming in from a door at the left, Madame Christmas entered the room.

" Roy-boy! " She called out without looking at him.

Roy simply looked away embarrassedly at the greeting, as Riza smiled and lightly laughed at him.

" Umm, Madame..." Roy said as Madame Christmas asked, still not looking at him, " What is it, Roy-boy? "

" ..." Roy was speechless as he frowned. Then he coughed to get her attention.

This time Madame Christmas looked at him and saw the face he was making, " I see you have a guest... Roy-boy." She said with a wide grin.

Roy frowned again,. " You know...I'm not a boy anymore..." He thought to himself. Then he shrugged the thought off.

" So, how do you found this new place? " He asked as Madame Christmas smiled at him.

" It's neither too flashy or extravagant. It's quite simple...I like it. " She said as Roy smiled back.

" I'm happy to know that you like it. I know how much you like it, simple. " Roy said as he looked around.

" You know...this is quite larger than the previous one. I wonder how you got the money..." Madame Christmas said.

" I am a Colonel that time, and now a Brigadier General and still an infamous, state alchemist..." He said proudly as he closed his eyes.

Then he opened his eyes and looked at his aunt, " Besides Madame, I have been saving up. " Roy replied as Madame Christmas smirked at him.

" Saving up, eh? Planning on something large, Roy-boy? " Madame Christmas asked curiously as Roy smiled at her.

" I guess...But it may take time. I'm not in a hurry. I'm still planning it. " He said as Madame Christmas smiled back.

" I see...Go on and plan. Take your time before you regret it...Although you are getting old. " Madame Christmas said teasingly as Roy frowned.

Then Madame Christmas looked away and whispered softly, " Besides, I want to have grandchildren soon..."

" Did you say something, Madame? " Roy asked as Madame Christmas shook her head.

" It's nothing..." Madame Christmas said casually as Roy looked at her puzzled.

Then Madame Christmas looked over at Riza, " You're his aide aren't you? Riza Hawkeye... Am I right? " She asked as Riza looked at her and nodded.

" Yes, I am Lieutenant Colonel Riza Hawkeye...It's nice to meet you. " Riza said with a smile, as she and Madame Christmas shook hands.

" I'm sure you know me as Madame Christmas, but I am Chris Mustang, Roy-boy's foster mother. It's nice to meet you as well. " She said as she smiled at Riza.

" I heard so much about you from Roy-boy. Even the time of his childhood, when he had just started to go to his alchemy teacher. As I recall...Little Roy called you a snob...saying that you're always ignoring him at first..." Madame Christmas said as Roy looked gloomy.

Roy gulped as he saw Riza glared at him.

" Then he always bugs me about how to say sorry when you guys argue. He also asks for help every year, to secretly send you some Valen- " Madame Christmas said but was halt as Roy spoke.

" Must we talk about the past? It has already...passed. " He said abruptly with a goofy smile.

Riza and Black Hayate looked at him curiously.

Madame Christmas also looked at him and soon smirked, as Roy become nervous again as she looked back at Riza.

" Past is past...But I'm impressed that the two of you both came a long way. Beginning at your childhood, to your career and to where the two of you, are now...I hope you'll continue to look after my little, Roy-boy. " Madame Christmas spoke as she eyed Riza.

Riza smiled.

Roy could only frown and secretly hide the embarrassment he feels at the current situation.

Riza saw the look he was giving and couldn't help but smile at him as she laughed secretly at him at her mind.

Even Black Hayate was amused as he had his mouth opened with his tongue out, wagging his tail happily.

" You are going to watch over him, right? Lieutenant Colonel? " Madame Christmas asked as Riza looked at her shyly.

Then she smiled and nodded, " I will..."

Madame Christmas nodded and smiled, then she eyed Roy, " Behave yourself, Roy-boy. "

Roy frowned once again and sighed, " Alright. Alright...I will, behave. " He said in defeat.

" You say that...But I know that he would be careless. The moment you take your eyes on him, he would do something outrageous in an instant. " Madame Christmas whispered to Riza, loud enough for Roy to hear.

Seeing Roy cringed and frown childishly again, made Riza smile and soon let out a soft laugh.

Seeing that, Roy soon smiled at her and his frustrations burned out.

Then it all went silent afterwards and the silence made it feel awkward.

Madame Christmas eyed the two and saw that none were planning to break the silence so she did it herself.

" You know, Roy-boy...It's very ungentlemanly of you to keep a guest standing for too long...not to mention, your close friend and date. " Madame Christmas said.

" Oh you're right...Sorry. " Roy said.

" You're such a klutz sometimes, Roy-boy. " Madame Christmas teased as Roy laughed sheepishly.

Then she eyed Riza, " Why don't you join us for dinner? " She asked as Riza looked surprised.

" I would love to, but I wouldn't want to disturb the two of you..." Riza said shyly.

" Roy never takes his dates here, to me. You're the very first. Besides you won't disturb us and as I see things, You're already a part of this family. " Madame Christmas said as Riza smiled.

" So will you join us? I'm sure Roy has no objections and I know that, he would be thrilled to have you with us. " Madame Christmas said to Riza.

Then she turned to Roy, " Isn't that right, Roy-boy? " Madame Christmas added.

Roy looked back at her and gulped, " I-I wouldn't have any objections. So will you join us...Riza? " He said stuttering.

Riza looked at him first, surprised that he used her first name.

Then Riza soon smiled, " I would gladly comply, Thank you Madame Christmas..." She said as Madame Christmas smiled back and nodded.

Then Riza looked over at Roy and flashed a loving smile. " I would love to join you. "

" Roy-boy. " She added teasingly as Madam Christmas laughed and Roy frowned at her.

As Riza walked towards him, Roy thought of something.

" Very funny, Hawky..." He teased with a wide goofy grin, as Riza lightly smacked his shoulder and smiled.

He opened the door towards the dinning room and let Riza and Madame Christmas entered first, before him.

" Madame...do you have the information I asked for? " Roy suddenly whispered as Madame Christmas was just by his side.

Then she looked at him and shrugged her shoulders.

" Have I ever failed to get you the information that you needed? Let's talk about it after dinner." Madame Christmas said as she entered the dinning room.

" Alright..." Roy said as he, himself entered the room.

He was just about to close the door, but saw a black puppy whimpering and sitting down at the other room, looking innocently at Roy.

Roy smiled, " What are you doing there you little Black Hurricane? Come on here, It's alright. " He said as Black Hayate stood up and happily complied to Roy's command.

As Black Hayate entered the room, Roy closed the door behind and soon followed the pup.

Then as Roy reached the dining table, He sat besides Riza and thought to himself,

" I wonder if those guys figured out, the Last Stage of a date by now? Hmph...I guess I have to count on Fullmetal runt for that. "

- Back with Edward and the whole gang. -

Edward sneezed unwillingly as his nose got itchy, " I feel like someone had just called me a runt..." He thought as he scratched his nose and continued to write the possible answers.

Then as he thought about the clue again, his eyes become large when he suddenly thought of an idea, regarding the riddle.

Immediately he wrote what he think of, was the right answer...

Then as he was done, he smiled broadly as he finally got some words.

" Aha! I think I have figured it out! " Edward said cheerfully as all looked at him excitedly.

" Really, Brother? Tell us! " Alphonse said proudly as Edward smirked.

" So tell us already, Fullmetal boss." Breda said as the others nodded. " Tell us! "

Then Edward gave his paper containing his hypothesis.

Alphonse took it as the others moved closer to him.

As they saw it, they couldn't help but laughed sheepishly as they saw the paper containing Edward's answer was barely readable.

Since it was full of his answers that were wrong, so he erased it with his pen.

Then Edward coughed to get their attention. The group complied and looked at him curiously.

" Now, as I understand the clue, There are many beginnings, but there are only two endings...

Major General...does it mean that he did use the same trick, using the first letters of the names, with only two of the names were exempted to that rule, beacuse the other two used the last letters? " Edward asked as Olivier looked at him.

Then Olivier smiled and laughed heartily, " Good job, Edward Elric. So tell me...what is your answer? " She asked as Edward took the note from the group.

Then he took Alponse's spare paper and rewrote it, clearly.

Then he handed it out to the Major General, as soon as she took it, she read it thoroughly, with the others glancing at her side.

{J}ean

Sho{u}

{S}car

{T}ruth

{B}reda

{E}dward

{Y}oki

{O}livier

F{u}

{R}ebecca

{S}ciezska

{E}lysia

{L}ing

{F}uery

Then the Major General placed the note back at the table and closed her eyes as she crossed her arms.

" So...Am I right? Major General? " Edward asked as the Major General opened her eyes to look at him and smirked.

" As expected from you, Edward Elric...You surely save me some time. You are correct. " The Major General said.

Then Edward couldn't believe it.

" I have solve the riddle! Me, Edward Elric a genius! Fullmetal Alchemist, Edward Elric! " He said proudly with a wicked laughed, the others could only look at him and laughed along, sheepishly. (XD)

Even the Major General smiled as she got out the paper containing the, Original copy of Roy's Riddle.

She placed it at the table as the others look at it curiously, even Rebecca and Catherine.

" What's that, sister? " Catherine asked as she took the note.

" A piece of paper that Mustang gave me a little earlier. He did said that, that riddle was, The Last Stage of a date..." Olivier said as she sighed.

" Damn that, Mustang...Ordering me something so childish. It's ludicrous! " She added.

As the group looked at the note, it was just the same as the copies. It was just the same riddle containing the names.

Then Catherine noticed that it was folded, so she spread the folded note open, as she read the contents. with the others hudlling close, as the gazed it by her side.

And it's contents were,

J/ Just be yourself / ean

Sho u/ Unwind your doubts/

S/ Stay calm /car

T/ Trust yourself / ruth

…

B/ Be who you are / reda

E/ End your worries / dward

…

Y/ You have to believe / oki

O/ Only then, will you succeed / livier

F u/ Understand, that it's better to be honest /

R/ Rely on your heart / ebecca

S/ Simply be who you are / ciezska

E/ Enlighten up and smile /lysia

L/ Let loose all your hesistations / ing

F/ For this is the Last Stage of a date / uery

Then Catherine smiled, soon she noticed that there were still something written at the back.

So she turned the letter and read it's contents, along with the rest of the group.

: The Last Stage of a date :

Just be yourself, for that is the most important thing...Out of all the other Stages of a date, this is the very vital, second to the first Stage of a date.

Which of course, the first being the most vital because if you don't ask her out, there is no date.

But just being yourself is just as important, because it is the very life of a date.

You don't have to change who you are and that's true.

Because you're showing the person you deeply care about, the real you.

You are, Honest. You don't have to act and tell lies or hide anything from her.

Show the person you love, who the real you is, even your flaws. Don't be shy about it. After all, no one is perfect for even the world is not perfect.

You have nothing to worry about because you don't have to act like anybody else.

You know who you are and you must show it yourself. After all, who knows you more than yourself? It's better if you, yourself express it than somebody else.

Believe in yourself, Show your confidence by being the real you.

Just be yourself. Do not give in to your fears and hesistations.

This is the Final Stage of a date, which, if not used, means that all of what happened on your date would have just been a lie.

Remember that you don't have to act like someone else to leave a good impression.

Just trust yourself and even you can learn, How to make a date.

As they finished reading it, they all let out a sigh and soon find themselves smiling.

" What a wonderful thing to see. " Alex said as he broke down to tears as Paninya , who was just beside him cheered him up by patting his back. " There. There. "

" That's probably one of the most useful thing the Colonel...no...Brigadier General ever told us. " Havoc said as Rebecca looked at him.

" Really? He didn't told you about the others stages of a date? " Rebecca asked as the group looked at her curiously.

" There were other Stages of a date? " Breda asked curiously as Catherine nodded.

" According to Brigadier General Mustang, there were other stages of a date...but maybe he decided to tell us the whole summary of it, by giving the Last Stage of a date. " Catherine said with a smile.

The others nodded.

" Yeah, now that I think of it...The Brigadier General only told us the first and the last..." Ross said as the others thought about it.

Then Brosh nodded, " Yeah. But now that you think about it...Maybe it's the most important ones? " He said.

Then Winry crossed her arms, " So are you saying that the first Stage, which was to ask someone out and the Last stage or rather the next step was...just to be yourself? " She asked.

" But now that you think about it...That Brigadier General Mustang had a point. Regardless of the other stages, which maybe the second was to talk openly, the third is sharing your dreams, the fourth maybe is to give a nice remebrance and the maybe the next was simply to handle intrusions...I say the Last Stage of a date does cover all of them..." Edward said as the group looked at him amazed.

" Really, Brother. Maybe that's the other stages? Wow...How did you thought about it, so expertly? " Alphonse said as Edward smiled proudly.

" It's like he's saying something like it was written by someone else for him..." Mei said as Edward glared at her.

" Are you saying that it's not like me, you midget? " Edward said as Mei and Shao Mei had their tongue out mockingly as Alphonse laughed at them.

Edward was just about to rant again but was halt by Winry, " Don't be harsh, Ed. Besides you're one to talk..considering that you're also short..." She said as Edward had his mouth opened, shocked.

" Uncute Machine Freak..." Edward said teasingly as Winry looked at him angrily.

" Short tempered, Shorty. " Winry countered as Edward had his mouth wide opened again, surprised. " Uh? "

Then the others laughed at them as the two continued teased one another.

Ling was happily smiling, " But I guess that the Brigadier General was right about just being yourself. " He said as Lan Fan nodded.

" I agree, young master. There's nothing more important than showing the people around you who you really are. " Lan Fan said with a smile.

" I agree too...I guess our little trip about finding out the Brigadier General's date with the whole group was really fun. " Sciezska said as the others nodded.

" Yeah...So many things have happened in one night. It really was exciting in it's own ways. " Fuery said as he lifted the white pup and placed it on his lap as he petted it.

The white puppy happily looked at him and barked cutely as she wagged her tail.

Then Falman thought of something, " It really had been fun. But I can't really believe the Brigadier General...He's quite good, changing his technique on the second riddle by making the two names use their last letter to form the hidden words...instead of all of the use the first letters like the first riddle. " He said as the others nodded.

Then the Major General scoffed, " Don't praise him too much...Haven't you realize that the two names that used the last letter had something in common? " Olivier said as everyone looked at her curiously and thought about it.

" Shou...Fu..." Then Falman noticed something, " Wait a minute...both of those names end with the letter U. " He said as the others looked at him wide eyed, shocked.

The Major General smiled lazily, " Correct...He wrote another thing about that...He stated that the only reason he didn't let all the names used their first letters was not because he wanted to make the riddles different from one another...The Original reason was just, because he doesn't know anyone whose names start with the letter U. " She said as she shrugged her shoulders.

The others just looked at her with their mouths wide opened.

Then everyone couldn't help but laugh. ( XD)

Then Ling thought of something, " But I recalled something from Greed's memory...That he was with somebody whose name starts with U..." He said as the group looked at him.

Then Edward recalled who it was, " Oh, the first Greed...I remember, It was that human-crocodile chimera with him, right? " He asked as Ling nodded, " Yeah..."

Edward smiled, " But as I remember, he wasn't really acquianted with the Brigadier General...So it's natural that he doesn't know him. " He replied.

Then Ling smiled, " I'm quite flattered that he had remembered me and Old man Fu..." He said modestly, in which made the others smile regardless of the fact that he was serious.

Then they all find themselves laughing.

" So what must we do now? " Fuery asked.

" I say we track down the Brigadier General and still find out who his date is! " Breda said.

" But I think it's quite obvious that it's Ms. Riza..." Winry suddenly said, thinking out loud.

Then she noticed that everyone looked at her shocked, especially Catherine, Rebecca and even the Major General.

" Did I say that out now, out loud? " Winry said as she laughed sheepishly, " I did now...Didn't I? " She added.

" Well...I just feel like it will be her...Is she the one? " Winry asked as Rebecca looked at the other way, whistling to herself.

" Won't you tell us? " Edward asked as Catherine, only uttered a soft laugh.

" It's better to see it with your own eyes than for us to tell you now. It lacks anticipation. " Olivier said with a terrifying glare as the others cringed at the look of her.

" So, I guess we should take our leave? " Edward asked cautiously.

Then Olivier smiled, making it uneasy for the rest. Then she spoke, " Aside from second Lieutenants Rebecca Catalina, Jean Havoc, Vato Falman...and First Liutenant Maria Ross. Everyone else is free to go. "

Aside from the ones who were called, the group sighed relieve.

" Even I can leave, dear sister? " Catherine asked as Olivier nodded, " Yes, get home soon. It's getting late...As much as I want to send Alex to escort you...I fear that it's not a wise decision...Ask someone else, maybe one of Mustang's men. " Olivier said.

Catherine was about to get up, but as soon as Alex stood up first, her dress was caught by the steel framed table's feet denying her movements.

" What a major insult, sister and I- " Alex started exasperatedly but was cut off when Breda yelled.

The white puppy was sprawling about just beneath Breda's foot. Breda saw this and fled, he had just also unconsciously lifted the steel framed table of the outdoor cafe.

Catherine, unaware of Breda's fear of dogs, simply thought that Breda was pretty strong.

Amusingly, she blushed because she loves people who are strong as his brother. ( no really? XD)

While Breda was freaking out, he noticed that Catherine was looking directly at him." Y-yes? " He asked, Unaware that he, himself blushed. Embarrassed because of his fear for dogs.

" You know, Second Liutenant Breda? You're actually pretty strong..." Catherine said gently as she stood up.

" Yes I am..." Breda said as he thought about his fear of dogs, then he looked at Catherine and registered what she had just said in his mind.

He was shocked, but as soon as he thought of that, he noticed that he was lifting the table up.

Unaware of the haevy weight of what he was carrying due to his fear of dogs...Who would have know it would have some use?

Then he grinned and boast, " Yeah I'm quite strong. " Breda said as he placed the table down.

As Catherine continued to praise Breda, the rest where open mouthed and shocked.

They could not believe it. ( Even me XD)

Especially Havoc who was beaten by Breda? Unacceptable to his pride, he wast just about to stand up and complain, He put his hand on the table for support.

But he didn't had the chance to stand up, because his hand, accidentally hits Rebecca's hand.

Havoc looked at Rebecca embarrassed, He was just about to apologized.

But as soon as their gaze met, Havoc was surprised that he saw Rebecca was blushing ?

Unaware that Rebecca was thinking the same thing, She was surprised as she saw Havoc blushing.

Both where unconsciously blushing as they continued to look at one another, dumbfounded.

Then, Rebecca, sensing the awkward feelin spoke, " So...M-Major G-General...W-what did you wanted to t-talk to us about...? " Rebecca asked stuttering as she abruptly change the subject.

The Major General looked at her first but decided to let it go, she smirked as she teased, " You should have an idea about it...since you were the one who gave me the information in the first place..."

Rebecca laughed sheepishly, " Oh, clumsy me..." She said as she coughed to calm herself down.

" So what do you plan on asking us, Major General, Ma'am? " Havoc asked as the Major General looked at him.

" According to Mustang, with the help of your general store and Maria Ross's help. You managed to get some items from Xing that you used in his little coup d'etat...I need your help. Will you lend me a hand? I need those weapons to defend, Briggs. " Olivier said as Havoc and Ross nodded.

The moment Ling heard the country, Xing...He was just preparing to leave unexpectedly.

He was just about to, but Edward unexpectedly spoke, " Major General, I think Ling Yao and the rest can help you more, with their knowledge. "

Ling cringed as he glared at Edward.

Then he thought of something, " Me don't understand this country's language...Hya.." Ling said in Xingnese.

Then Lan Fan shook her head, " Young Master, lets help them..." She said sternly in normal Xingnese.

Ling continued to speak in Xingnese in his own quirky way, " Why help them out, it is outrageous, yes? " Then he laugh.

Lan Fan couldn't help but laugh as well, " Young master...We promised to help anybody in any way we can. " She also said in Xingnese.

Then Ling smiled, " But me is starving...Feed me, yes? " He said dorkily.

Lan Fan nodded, " Fine, I'll prepare you something nice after we hear them out...and please, young master...speak normally. " She said as Ling smiled childishly.

" Alright. Alright, you win..." Ling said in defeat as he went back towards the table they were sitting on, a while ago.

Then Mei and Shao Mei went towards them, since they too can understand Xingnese, " Are you guys really gonna to stay here? " She asked as Ling nodded.

" Why don't you and Paninya go on ahead? Let's just meet up early tomorrow by the train station, leaving to the East? " Ling said as Mei and Paninya eyed them.

" You sure, you won't cause much trouble? " Paninya said doubtfully.

" I'll be good. " Ling said as he smiled childishly, making Paninya more doubtful. " Oh, really? "

" I'll be watching him...and won't take him off my sight. " Lan Fan said reassuringly as Paninya sighed.

" Alright..." Paninya said as she shrugged off her regrets.

" Don't worry, I'm sure my sister won't let them do something ludicrous..." Alex said reassuringly as Paninya shrugged her shoulders again and soon smiled.

" Alex..." Olivier said as Alex looked back, " What is it, sister? "

" Don't messed up my mansion. " Olivier said casually.

" But aren't you going to the North soon? " Alex said as Olivier looked at him, " And wouldn't the house be abondoned? Let me have the rights..." He added as Olivier let out a wicked laugh.

" You? Ha! Not a chance. Even if I leave to the north and die there, I would still be it's owner. " Olivier said sternly as Alex glared at her.

" So you'd rather let the mansion, Rot? " Alex said as Olivier smirked.

" I doubt, I'll die that easily though...But if I do, I've already made arrangements..." Olivier said with a plain smile on her face.

"Passing the deed? " Alex asked as Olivier nodded.

" Yes, I've already settled it...If anything happens to me...Mustang can have it. " Olivier said plainly as she drank her tea and Ignore her younger brother's outburst.

" That again? Why must we argue about this? Why must you give it to him, when I am your younger brother? Where will I live? " Alex said comically dramatic.

Olivier scoffed at him, " I still think Mustang is still the better heir than you by a hair. And besides, What happens to you is not my problem." She said brutally with a wicked laugh at the end.

Sending chills to everyone else, except Catherine. Because she is already used to this kind of quarrels.

" Have you ever wonder where will Catherine, will stay? " Alex said.

" Mother and Father had already picked a new mansion to live in, and Catherine will still live with them...Leaving only you who has a problem. " Olivier said.

" You are so cruel..." Alex said dejectedly as Olivier laughed evilly.

As the siblings continued to bicker, the group all laughed sheepishly.

" But where will we go now? " Mei asked Shao Mei.

Then Alphonse spoke, " Mei why don't you go with us? I'm sure Ms. Gracia will be alright having another visitor. " He said as Mei smiled broadly.

" I would love to join! Me and Shao Mei will! " Mei said as she and Shao Mei danced happily.

" Yeah, come with us, so Elysia can have another playmate. " Edward saiad teasingly.

" Because Elysia may grew tired with just Ed to play with. " Winry said then she laughed as Edward glared at her.

" Then we would just hang out with you guys too...It's boring to walk alone. " Sciezska said as Winry nodded.

" Let's all go, together! " Paninya said excitedly.

Edward nodded, " Hey, Master Sergeant Fuery...you coming with us? " He asked as Fuery nodded.

" I still have to find an owner for this poor little pup..." He said as Edward nodded.

" Alright, Let's go! " Edward said.

Alex and Olivier were still fighting but Catherine decided to break them up.

" Brother...Sister, I think it's time to go now...Or else you may never see, Brigadier General Mustang's date is..." Catherine said as Alex complied to her request.

" But even if we don't see him...You will just tell us, right? " Breda asked as Catherine nodded, " Although it would be great if we see him in person, but if we aren't fortunate...Then I'll tell you. " She said as the rest nodded.

" Alright, goodluck guys! We're leaving now! " Edward said as he waved goodbye, the others followed afterwards.

Rebecca and the others also waved goodbye.

Then as they were already in a far off distance, Edward realized that Sergeant Brosh did not follow them.

" Sergeant Brosh! " Edward yelled, then he saw that the sergeant didn't move an inch.

" You guys go on ahead! I'll stay here for awhile! " Brosh yelled back as Edward and the others nodded.

Then as soon as they were gone, Havoc sighed.

" I really do want to find out who is Brigadier General Mustang's date is but...Oh, well...what do you need, Major General? " Havoc asked as Olivier looked at him.

" Like I said I need weapons...and I need all your help. But before that, If you're really curious about who that bastard's date is...We can tell you, you know. " Olivier said as the rest, except Olivier and Rebecca looked curious.

" Alright, Ma'am...tell us who its is. " Falman said as Olivier saw all of the others nod.

" Rebecca...Tell them for me. " Olivier said as Rebecca nodded. " Aye, Ma'am! "

As the group looked at Rebecca curiously, Rebecca simply smiled.

" Brigadier General Roy Mustang 's date is none other than his childhood friend, his close subordinate and his loyal partner...Lieutenant Colonel..." Rebecca teased as she paused making the others complain.

Even the Major General got pissed, " Just tell them so we can get all of this behind us. " Olivier said sternly as Rebecca laughed and nodded.

" Winry was right...Mustang's date is his aide and bodyguard, Lieutenant Colonel...Riza Hawkeye. " Rebecca said with a wide smile on her face as the others were shocked.

Except for Ling and Lan Fan, who seemed not as shock as the rest.

" Riza Hawkeye...? Good for them. Is that really it? " Ling said as he drank the coffee that he ordered.

- Roy and Riza -

" Is this really it, Madame? " Roy asked as he read the information that he asked from Madame Christmas.

" Of course it is...Have I ever been wrong, Roy-boy? " Madame Christmas said as she took the empty plates and put it on the sink and cleaned it.

Roy continued to read the papers thoroughly, Riza on the other hand was giving Black Hayate a bowl of water.

The little pup, happily drank it all up.

Then as soon as Madame Christmas was done with the dishes, she watched Riza petting Black Hayate. Then she turned and saw Roy reading the papers throughly.

" Are you really going to Ishbal so soon? " Madame Christmas asked as Roy looked up to her and nodded, " Yes...I'm sorry for being to sudden, when you have just arrived..." He said as Madame Christmas nodded and soon smiled.

" No need to apologize...I understand how ambitious you are and you won't just sit still and settle down...I just want you to be careful, Roy-boy..." Madame Christmas said.

That being said made Roy's eyes soften his gaze, " I will..." He said as Madame Christmas nodded.

" Make sure you don't end up being killed by the outlaws that has been going to the east's...I won't forgive you if you do...I wanted to have grandchildren you know. " Madame Christmas said.

Riza looked at them and smiled.

Roy too smiled, but he couldn't help but laugh, " Grandchildren, huh? " He thought to himself.

" What's so funny, Roy-boy? Is it wrong to look forward to have Grandchildren? Oh, please don't take too long...I don't want to be an old Grandparent that time. " Madame Christmas said as Roy stopped laughing.

" I'll think about it..." He said as he folded the papers and put it in his extra coat as he wore it.

" You're leaving again? " Madame Christmas asked as Roy nodded.

" I want to visit an old friend's grave before we go to the east..." Roy said as Riza stood up and wore Roy's other coat.

" I have to walk, Riza home too..." Roy added as Riza smiled at him.

Then Madame Christmas nodded, " Alright..." She said.

Then she eyed Riza, " You be careful too, out there. Always help each other out. " Madame Christmas said as Riza looked at her and smiled.

" Thank you, Madame Christmas...I'll be careful. Please take care of youeself too. " Riza said as Madame Christmas nodded and smiled. " Thank you, child. "

Roy also smiled, How fast did Madame Christmas get warm around Riza? It's like she was really a long family friend.

Black Hayate soon stood up and uttered a yawn as he stretched his body. Then he stood besides Roy and Riza waiting for them to leave.

As Riza and Madame Christmas said their goodbyes, Roy asked, " Riza, Are you ready to go? "

Riza nodded and smiled, " I'm ready, Roy. " she replied as Rou nodded.

A little sooner, Roy, Riza and Black Hayate were now outside the bar, standing on the porch.

Roy decided to say goodbye to Madame Christmas. " It looks like it maybe awhile before we see each other again, Madame..." He said as Madame Christmas nodded, " Yeah...Take care, Roy-boy. "

Roy smiled and nodded, " Likewise, Madame...I say this is goodbye for now. " He said as he turned around and began to go down the stairs.

As Madame Christmas watched her foster son leave, she came to realize that she never had embraced him.

Then she thought that this was the perfect chance to do so. " Roy-boy! "

Roy looked back and saw that Madam Christmas was just right behind him, then he was shocked as She embraced him.

He was surprised at first and speechless at Madame Christmas's loving embrace.

" Roy...though I may not express it much...I'm very proud of you. I'm sure that your parent's agree that you have grown to be a strong, respectable fine young man...Remember that you will never be alone. " Madame Christmas said as Roy retured her embrace.

" I know...For I have a whole country to protect and serve, along side you and my dear comrades that give me the strength that I needed, I'll return soon and I will become the next Fuhrer. " Roy said.

" Don't come back till you're married. " Madame Christmas said as Roy frowned childishly.

Riza smiled at the two as she lifted, Black Hayate and embraced the pup.

As Roy and Madame Christmas part, Roy flashed a childish smile. Like a child who can't contain his happiness.

Then they said their farewells once more and promised that they'll meet again, one day.

In, A Dream come true.

End of Chapter Six, The Finale

Author's Note: Thanks for reading, and Sorry if it took me a bit long. Did you like the riddle? :D

This story was quite a good work out for my brain. Though this story is quite simple, it's harder than you think. I tried to make it come natural, to have the same feeling as the manga/brotherhood.

I have done my very all, to bring out the best of what I could make out of this story and I think that this wouldn't be a story that will disappoint you...I hope... ha ha ha.

I was supposed to update this last week but it was too short, compared to the last chapter...so I decided to write some more...

But don't you think I over did it? I did tried to make it as long as the last chapter...I did, but it ended up too long, this was suppose to be the last chapter but...I didn't even get to write the ending, just yet... This is the longest chapter, now...

ha ha ha...There will be another chapter. More things will happen...I think this story will continue to expand...XD

The Reason that this chapter tittle is, The Finale is not because it's the end of the story...it's just because the Last Stage of a date is given...but, even that is still incomplete...you find out in the next chapter.

Another Reason is that, I simply thought it was cool... :D It's also a nice chapter for the end of the month... XD

Well what ever happens next is something to look forward too...

Aside from updating this I would also write a new story which I will call, By your side. It's only a short multi-chapter fic.

And I will update, A Dream come true. which I plan on updating it the same time or before, How to make a date's chapter seven.

Thanks for reading this. ( ^_^)V { I'm currently writing Chapter Seven at my homepage. But it's not finished yet.]