It was more like science fiction than science fact.
The idea of combining the genes and DNA of two species into one was an idea that seemed only existent in sci-fi novels, until recent years when scientists began experimenting, determining what was possible, and what was not. Only one case was determined successful, but by then, the project had already been shut down due to hazardous conductions of research.
Never in a million years did he think his sense of adventure would bring him this far into a situation.
"Mr. Elric!" barked a deep voice, the sudden rise in the voice's intensity jolting a young blonde up from his slumber, messy hair and a head snapping up from the desk in response to the exclamation.
Once the golden haired student had given the professor his attention, he cleared his throat, a single eyebrow rising in disapproval. "I would advise you to stay awake." the black haired professor scolded, his dark eyes drifting down to the book in his hand. "While you're at it, why don't you show the class how to solve number thirty-four?"
Fucking perfect. With an inward groan, Ed braced himself with his arms against the table, and forced his body to stand, ignoring the grogginess still lingering in his head. All eyes were on the blonde headed student as he stepped out of his row and down the steps to meet the cold glare of the professor, who now seemed more than pleased at this humiliating punishment. Sucking in a breath, Ed walked past him and took a piece of chalk in hand. "Number thirty-four?" Ed repeated, a layer of exhaustion covering his voice.
The professor, more amused than ever, smiled coldly. "Yes, Edward. Number thirty-four." He repeated matter-of-factly, his tone sending a rumble of chuckles throughout the lecture hall. "The question is, 'What kind of reaction is produced when sulfuric acid and magnesiu—'"
"Exothermic." The golden-eyed answered, his arms crossing over his chest as he made direct eye contact with the ebony-haired professor. A couple more laughs spread across the room at the professor's reaction, who looked taken aback. Recovering quickly, a dark eyebrow raised as he continued.
"Products—"
"Hydrogen gas and magnesium sulfate. And if you want specifics, professor," A small but sly smile spread across Ed's face, "the hydrogen gas bubbles and the magnesium sulfate is aqueous. Anything else?"
By now it was obvious the professor was no longer enjoying Edward's so-called punishment. With clenched teeth, the older man spoke again. "Show us."
Shrugging, Ed turned around, and began to scribble on the dusty chalkboard, quickly conjuring the reaction from his head. Chemical reactions came to Edward with ease; the products were always obvious, and balancing was a joke. Ed finished the equation with the state symbols, and placed the chalk back into its original position, the fully balanced reaction in big, white letters above his head. "There. Can I sit down now, professor Mustang?"
By now, hundreds of eyes were glued to the two, who were interlocked in fierce eye contact. Hesitantly, professor Mustang nodded, his eyes lingering on Edward briefly before breaking contact. "Take your seat." His voice was bitter and gruff, which let Edward know he had succeeded. Casually, the golden haired alchemist brushed past the older man, and strolled back to his desk, where his drool-covered jacket lay. Sighing, he pushed it aside, and forced his eyes to stay open for the remainder of lecture.
"Thank god," Ed moaned, brushing back the strands of hair that were falling in his face. "Now I can go home and sleep."
The professor had dismissed the class not half an hour after the scene that had taken place earlier, his low, smooth voice reciting the numbers that were assigned for homework as students packed up their belongings. Ed had been slower to gather his things, and was the last person to leave the room; or so he thought. Just as he was about to exit the classroom, a dark figure blocked his path.
"Mr. Elric, I'd like a word with you." The dark voice rumbled, two piercing eyes resting on Ed's glazed over expression.
With a restrained groan, Ed let his shoulders sag, a clear look of impatience mixing with the exhaustion on his face. "Can it be quick? I have things to do." Ed mumbled, adjusting his backpack on his right shoulder with a quick jerk of his arm.
"Of course you do." Came the irritated response from Professor Mustang, before he continued. "I don't appreciate the lack of attention you give to my lectures, Edward." He cocked an eyebrow at the golden-haired teen, who looked more disinterested than he ever had been in his life. "You're in my class to learn, and—"
"I already know everything. Isn't that obvious?" Ed mumbled, narrowing his eyes against the bright light. "You always call on me but you never seem to make a point because I've always gotten the answers right." He brushed another loose strand of hair away from his face. "So, why are you so upset if I'm getting good grades? Seems kinda weird to me. Unless, you just want everybody to hear the sound of your voice—"
"That's enough!" Barked the older man, blue eyes filled with rage as he interrupted the teen from his rambling. "You're being disrespectful to the class, and more importantly your instructor, and I advise you to refrain from sleeping in my class. Otherwise, Mr. Elric, I have every right to fail you and drop you from this class."
There was a moment of silence shared between the two men, the punctual tick of the clock the only other interference in the room. Finally, Ed dropped his gaze, adjusting the sliding strap of his backpack once again.
"Fine." He muttered, before he took a step forward, his goal being the space between Mustang and the door. Silently, he shoved past his professor, and through the frame of the door, leaving the black-haired professor with the precise ticks of the clock.