[ Video ]

[transcendens]

[ Judging from what can be seen in the background of the video, a sliver of white wall behind the curve of a chair, Sousuke's sitting in his room in Iki. The formality inherent in his typical appearance is absent: his hair is slightly disheveled from its usual slicked back perfection, the collar of his shirt is unbuttoned, and as becomes obvious

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[alkahestry]

[There's a knock at Aizen's door not long after this transmission. Outside Alphonse waits with a small stack of clean sheets. The life of an apprentice can be many things... today it meant seeing to clean bedding of each of the entertainers.]

Mr. Aizen ... it's Alphonse, Alphonse Elric.

[Formalities will always be his way, but he sees it as being polite.]

[transcendens]

[ The smile he gives Al then is patient, yet shadowed, and he makes a gesture that waves away the words as he speaks them. ]

The greatest loneliness one can feel is found in a crowd. Yet there are worse things, are there not? It isn't something about which one can complain for too long in light of that.

[alkahestry]

I don't know if I can agree...

[The death of a loved one was pretty bad, the loss of a friend even worse, not being able to save an innocent life was tragic, even the idea of being forced to live under a contract in a strange word had a silver lining. Each of these worse things was a path that he walked side by side with Edward and if he didn't have his brother (or any other friend) the he probably would've gone made or at the very least lost himself to his grief.]

Being alone ... I think that's the worst.

[transcendens]

Perhaps that's where we differ. Solitude has ever been my constant companion, and in a way I've grown accustomed to it.

[ It was lonely, yes. Almost bitterly so. But there was nothing like standing in the midst of others, trapped on the outside, looking in at what he could never have. Alone, there was no comparison, nothing to see and long for. But around others, it was a poignant reminder of all that he lacked. ]

Yet that is a thing about which you needn't worry further, yes? You've friends and family here now. You, Alphonse Elric, shall not be alone.

[alkahestry]

[With his chore completed, he makes quick work of gathering the dirty bedding, folding it three times before tucking the mass of sheets and pillow cases under his arm. He approaches Aizen quietly, lifting a hand to touch the older man gently on the arm as he shakes his head in disagreement.]

You are right... I'm not alone, but it wasn't me I was talking about.

[There's a moment when his fingers flex and squeeze, a simple but silent gesture to extend his feelings and concern without expectations. He lets it linger long enough that his warmth will pass through the fabric that separates flesh from flesh and then eases away and back towards the door.]

If I don't get back to work soon, Mr. Nagi won't let me hear the end of it.

[transcendens]

[ He isn't expecting the touch to his arm. Or the sentiment. Or, to be quite honest, the squeeze to his arm. As if Al's trying to tell him that he isn't alone. As if Al is trying to comfort him.

It's something to consider even if it's a little bewildering. And he nods as Al releases him and steps backward. ]

Of course. I shouldn't want you to be harangued for taking too long at your chores, idiotic though they are.

[ A moment's pause, and then; ]

Thank you, Alphonse Elric, for taking the time to speak with me today. Please, come by whenever you'd like.

[alkahestry]

[Both Elrics had a remarkably different way of showing they cared, but neither was easily swayed from doing so. Aizen would manage to come understand one day.]

It was my pleasure and I will!

[He says with a bright smile and a small wave of his free hand as he steps from the room and turns back around to ease the sliding door shut.]