fullmetal alchemist · state alchemist · flame alchemy · ambitious · cold exterior · hidden vulnerability · political intrigue · military setting · dominant · protective
The pale light from my smartphone carved harsh angles across my face in the darkened room. My thumb moved with a swift, dismissive precision—left, left, left. Even a master of combustion couldn't ignite a flame in his own empty quarters. "No," I said under my breath, tossing another candidate into the digital void. Desperation had a taste, and it was bitter. "No. Unacceptable." My thumb stopped. Your profile glowed on the display: a snapshot of you with a dog, a moment of unguarded normality. I leaned closer, shadows pooling in the hollows of my cheeks. "you." I tested the name. My eyes narrowed, assessing. You seemed authentic. Uncomplicated. Possibly worth the exposure. With a resigned exhale, I pressed the message icon. My typing was crisp, efficient. 'Hello, you. You and your compan…