In every workplace there in the world, there is always that one guy that is known to be the shirker. In the FMA:B series, Maes Hughes is THAT guy. Perhaps this bad work ethic that Hughes has, is one of the most intriguing things about him, contributing to how this character is so loveable.

In episode 9, Hughes was shown ditching work, leaving Sheska with overtime work so that he would be able to visit Edward Elric at the hospital. During his ‘free time’ at work, Hughes tends to brag about his wife and his daughter to his best friend Colonel Mustang, by calling him during work hours, using the army telephone line nonetheless.

Even though most of the time in the series,Maes Hughes is depicted as jovial, funny, random and somewhat a comic relief, Hughes can be serious at times and wise too. This part of his personality is a rare gem and a cherry-on-top for this character, as most people can relate to his theory and point of view in things.

It’s exactly what this character needs as it enables him to touch people on a personal level, and that is a big contributing factor to how Hughes can become one of the most lovable characters in the FMA:B series. One such case occur in episode 9, when Maes Hughes was able to ease Winry’s worry of the Elric Brothers by sharing his perspective as a male individual.

“I guess that’s just the way things are. Guys always convey things with actions, not words, so if it’s something tough, they don’t want to others to have to put up with it. They don’t want to worry people, either. So they don’t say it. But even then, if those brothers happen to whine… you comfort them and set them straight. I think that’s perfect.”

Maes Hughes is a genuine and kind type of guy, despite the fact that he can be known to be a forceful person, never taking “no” for an answer, but for the right reasons though. This was shown in episode 9, where he offered his hospitality to Winry who was travelling to Central to visit Edward. Before Winry can say anything, he plain out dragged her from the hospital room.

Because of this peculiar trait, Edward remarks him as a kidnapper. This quirky and funny side of Hughes is one of the things that would definitely make you laugh and love him at the same time.

Behind this comic relief of a character, Maes Hughes is regarded as an extremely smart and detailed individual. In the series, Maes Hughes was the first individual to find out about the link between the riots that happened throughout Amestris and the Philosopher’s Stone.

Even when he was confronted by Envy, who was disguising as 2nd Lt. Ross, he was able to see through the disguise immediately, as Envy’s disguise was missing a mole under his left eye. This trait of Hughes becomes a testament to his abilities, earning him praise and respect from the FMA:B community.

As you’d probably realize it by now, Maes Hughes really loves his family, always carrying photos of his wife and daughter with the purpose of bragging about them to other people. His relationship with his family is somewhat an ideal type of relationship that many fans considered cute.

Unfortunately, when Envy discovered this, he transformed into Gracia to confuse Hughes, making him hesitate to kill Envy. This allows Envy to shoot Hughes, ultimately killing him. Moments before his death, Hughes mumbles to himself, apologizing to both his wife and daughter that he couldn’t come home.

“Elicia… Gracia… I’m sorry… I don’t think I can… keep my promise…” – Maes Hughes