hot-temperedlanfan:

Their stay in Central City had been interesting, to say the least. They had encountered quite a few Homunculi and the prince had fainted from hunger on more than one occasion. The latter wasn’t very surprising, though; Ling had the tendency to pass out when he was hungry.

“Central City seems like a very…interesting place, ma’am. We’ve come to the realization that there are many unique people here,” Lan Fan said, choosing her words carefully. “Overall, I’d say that our stay has been…enjoyable.”

Lan Fan could sense that the atmosphere in the room was beginning to grow thick with awkwardness. Aside from the noises coming from outside - the sound of birds singing and children playing - the room was silent. She quickly came to the conclusion that she should be grateful for the silence; she was always listening for the sound of footsteps approaching Riza’s office.

“How have things in Central been lately? I noticed some officers questioning someone after a burglary earlier. Has the crime rate been high around here?” It was a rather odd question to ask someone, in Lan Fan’s opinion. However, she wanted to keep the Lieutenant talking; perhaps she could uncover some information on the Philosopher’s Stone that could be useful to the prince.

Riza Hawkeye had never had the pleasure of visiting Xing, for military purposes or for leisure. One day, she figured she’d have to make the trip. Her work with the military had sent her all over Amestris, and beyond the country’s borders. It was only a matter of time before her superiors sent her to Xing for one reason or another. She’d met a few dozen immigrants from the distant land, and they’d always interested her. They were a unique bunch. The small amount of time she’d spent with Lan Fan and Ling was enough to show her that. 

“I’m glad to hear that,” She replied with a polite grin. “Central City is an acquired taste, I think. It’s not for everyone.” Having moved to Central on the Colonel’s orders, she didn’t elect to relocate. It wasn’t a bad place to live, though the web that was being weaved within the military was growing more and more intricate as everyday went by. Central City was the heart of the web of deception that their leaders were creating. 

When Lan Fan mentioned the crime, she frowned. It was an astute observation. The crime rate had increased over the past few weeks. There had been a string of burglaries, and the officers had their hands full. “You could certainly say that. People are starting to take more and more risks, but the military is cracking down firmly on the criminals. There’s no room for tolerance any more.” It only took her a moment to realize how her words fit in with Lan Fan’s situation. “You and your prince don’t need to worry—about being arrested by me, that is. Keep an eye out for thieves, though. They’re ruthless.” 

(Source: lieutenantrizahawkeye)