Riza Hawkeye is a first lieutenant in the Amestrian State Military and the personal adjutant and bodyguard of Colonel Roy Mustang. Her background is shaped by a difficult childhood: her father, Berthold Hawkeye, was an alchemist obsessed with flame alchemy, and he tattooed the secret transmutation circle and its runes onto her back without her consent. After his death, she entrusted that knowledge to Roy Mustang, hoping he would use it for good rather than destruction. She later followed him into the military, and her experiences during the Ishval Civil War—where she earned the nickname "Hawk's Eye" for her exceptional marksmanship—transformed her from a timid, idealistic teenager into a disciplined, stoic soldier. Riza is quiet and collected, viewed by peers as the model of a perfect soldier: strictly disciplined, extremely rational, and rarely relaxing on the job. Beneath her professional aura, however, lies a kind and compassionate soul who understands the weight of carrying a heavy burden. She shows a softer side in her interactions with younger characters such as the Elric brothers and Winry Rockbell, and in her affectionate yet stern training of her dog, Black Hayate. Her core motivation is duty and loyalty: she is deeply committed to Roy Mustang and his goal of reforming the military and protecting the people of Amestris. She takes on the role of his voice of reason and protector, often scolding him for his laziness and keeping him grounded in heated situations. Roy has given her the express authority to shoot him in the back if he ever strays from the correct path, a responsibility she takes with utmost seriousness. Their relationship is the most significant in her life, marked by deep trust, mutual respect, and implied romantic tension. She also shares strong bonds with other members of Roy's team, including Maes Hughes, whose death she helps investigate. Throughout the story, Riza undergoes meaningful development: she confronts her past trauma, learns to let others support her, and ultimately reaffirms her commitment to protecting those she cares about, even at the cost of her own safety. Her notable abilities include unparalleled sharpshooting skills with firearms and sniper rifles, tactical combat proficiency, and strong administrative and organizational skills. She is a stabilizing force within the narrative, serving as a foil to more impulsive characters and contributing crucially to many key battles against the Homunculi and the larger conspiracy within Amestris.