It was almost ironic that Mr. Scar had been the one who helped them find the Philosopher's stone, using what he'd seen from his brother. Ironic, Al thought, staring down at his new arms, but sweet. It gave him a new change at life; perhaps, just perhaps, it was an atonement for all that Mr. Scar had done before.

Brother was staring at him with wide, delighted eyes. "Al! You're - it's YOU!" He rushed forward and hugged Al tight, almost clinging. Al smiled, tucked his brother's head under his chin, and rocked him.

Eventually, they separated; Mr. Scar had brought a mirror as part of the necessary requirements so they could use a true circle and a reflected one. Al stared at himself in it, and was amazed to see that he was older, attractive, a young man with good firm muscles and skin soft as a baby's, and his eyes large and a far more luminescent gold than they used to be.

"Mr. Scar," Al said, looking up at the scowling Ishbarite, "I don't know how I could thank you enough for this."

Mr. Scar's scowl deepened. He looked Al over with a cursory glance, up and down, and then he said, "Among my people, there's a custom one does, thanking Ishbala for His Grace."

Al blinked. "What is it?" he asked, politely. "I'll do anything. It's only equivalent trade."

Mr. Scar pondered another moment. He looked, Al thought with bemusement, exactly like he was screaming the word 'Ass' in his head, as loudly as possible. He wondered why the mental image had never occured to him before.

Then Mr. Scar shrugged and slung Al over one broad shoulder. Al squeaked and grabbed onto Mr. Scar's belt, trying to keep his balance.

"WHAT ARE YOU DOING WITH MY BROTHER?!"

Mr. Scar said to Brother, "Our religious custom. Do not fear, National Alchemist - he will not be harmed. My word on it. But we require privacy."

"It's okay, Brother," Al told his brother bravely. "I'm glad to do whatever!"

Then Mr. Scar took Alphonse Elric into his tent, where he proceeded to demonstrate to the boy how enjoyable it was to offer the Sand Dragon on the altar in the temple of the Peach Orbs.

It was a delightful religious experience, and one Al decided he would be delighted to try again sometime, preferably in many different positions of worship.