Edmund would like nothing better than being left to lick his wounds in private. He was in no condition to keep a tight rein on his emotions right now; he was barely keeping a check on his treacherous body, much less the disappointment, frustration, and crushing of his hopes where Al was concerned.

He looked up as Al entered, frowning. The tone was one he couldn't remember ever hearing from the gentle, obedient Elric. It was utterly disrespectful, and it was a dangerous precedent. Edmund drew himself up, sitting straight-backed, and glowered at him. "Is that how you address your Kings and Queens? Your efforts are appreciated; your manner is not."