West City Councilor Bertram will never forgive the State Alchemists for their part in the Promised Day Incident that nearly destroyed the country, especially the Flame Alchemist. He has a plan to put the alchemists in their place once and for all, and he's going to use their own art to do it. Meanwhile, Ed is just passing through West City on his way to meet up with his brother. But of course, Ed could never stay out of trouble for very long.

AU in which the royal magic is gifted to retainers through a magical sex ritual. A lot less porny than the description makes it seem. More of a coming of age angst fest that delves into the meaning of consent and free choices.