In front of Briggs Fortress, the Elric brothers stood amidst the wind and snow, surrounded by soldiers pointing guns at them.
"I am a State Alchemist, not a special agent."
Edward explained once again, sighing helplessly.
"Don't move, hands in the air."
A soldier tightened his grip on the trigger, ready to fire at any moment.
"Brother, what should we do now?"
Although Alphonse was not afraid of guns, he didn't act recklessly.
"Let's wait; their officer should be here soon."
The Elric brothers felt a bit exasperated; the northern soldiers wouldn't give them a chance to explain. Even showing their State Alchemist watch was useless; without central authorization, these people didn't believe their identity at all.
This was normal at 'Brickies Fortress', a border fortress, where spies attempted to infiltrate every year, often pretending to be alchemists.
Olivier Mira emerged from within the fortress, the female general stood aloft, scrutinizing the brothers.
"Who are you?"
