Whaddup Peoples?
UPDATE NOTE: I went back through the last chapter and edited a couple of things to make the story more comprehensible and flow easier.
Anyway, so concerning the previous chapter, you guys have already figured out that I'm following along with the anime series a little. BUT DON'T BE SO EASILY FOOLED! HaHa! I'm not going to copy everything from the anime as it was exactly I'll throw in my own made-up chapters here and there.
So, anyway...
I'd like to thank the following people for reviewing my previous chapter: AwestruckingAmy123, BravoMonAmi, and Shan-Shan XP, Foreverflame99!
That tallies up my total reviews to 12! Aaaaand I now have over 300 hits and counting. JUST FROM THE FIRST TWO CHAPTERS! Thank you so much you guys! Spread the word to your friends if you can! I know I don't have that many chapters up now, but I promise that there will be more! :D
Anywayz, enough of my rambling... Let's get on with the story, shall we?
Disclaimer: I don't own Fullmetal Alchemist, or its characters. Sadly... :'( BUT! I DO OWN my OC!
Chapter III: Mournful Sufferings
Beads of sweat streamed from my reddened face as I dangled from the iron bar hanging from the ceiling. My arms felt like they would stretch like elastic if I held on any longer. If only it were true, then same thing could happen to my legs. I'd probably be able to run faster than I could now with my stubs for legs. I took a few more deep breaths before grunting as I trudged to pull my body upwards until my chin rested on the bar, before relaxing and letting myself downwards only to repeat the process.
"Eighteen... Nineteen..." I counted, short of breath from the strenuous exercise. "Twenty..."
After that, I released the bar, dropping to the ground, panting from exhaustion. Wiping my arm across my moist forehead, I slid down the wall until I was sitting cross-legged on the floor, and then I ran a hand through my sopping, and most likely scraggly, hair as I gazed around the room. Most of the soldiers would ask me why I never worked out in the gym. Well, one thing was for sure was that the stench of sweat filled the entire room that one could choke. On the other hand, it would raise a few suspicions far a human stick to be surrounded by burly men, and not go into the locker room when she was finished with her workout.
As soon as I caught my breath, I stood up and walked over to the desk, plopping down in my seat. Reclining back in the chair, I grabbed the glass of water and took a sip, relishing the refreshing coolness soaking my dry throat. The workout routine had become a habit of mine after being a part of the military for a week. Since my alchemy teacher was a former drill sergeant, strenuous, fitness workouts had become part of my daily routines.
Suddenly a knock on the door interrupted my thoughts.
"Door's open," I called out, setting my glass back down on the desk.
Taking that as permission to enter, the knob clicked as it twisted to the side, and then the wooden door was pushed forward, revealing the Elric Brothers. Once again, Alphonse was in his suit of armor. Seriously, did he sleep in that thing? Compared to how dismayed the two of them looked the other day, their spirits seemed slightly aroused. Well, it was easy to read on Edward's face, since Al's head was covered by that iron helmet.
"So, what did the Colonel say?" I asked as the two of them stepped into the room, closing the door behind them.
"Since the Lior case was a huge fail," Fullmetal spoke, taking a seat on the edge of the bed, "the Colonel's offered to introduce us to a specialist in the field of bio-alchemy."
I blinked as I stared at the two of them. This sure was a new change in subject. For the past month I've been with the Elric Brothers, it's been "Stone-this" and, "Stone-that". Heck, I thought for sure that the rock was all those two ever talked or thought about every day. Now, it was about some type of alchemy?
"Wait," I began, "since when did this whole quest go from finding the Sorcerer's Stone-"
"Philosopher's Stone!" Edward corrected, obviously irked for the umpteenth time I've misstated the stone.
"Whatever," I answered, waving him off. "What does bio-alchemy have to do with any of this?"
Silence filled the dorm as the two brothers exchanged glances, as if they were having a telepathic conversation about who was going to answer the question.
"You see, Dani," Alphonse began calmly, facing me. "When Ed and I were in the cathedral confronting Father Cornello, he transmuted a huge chimera right in front of our eyes."
"A chimera, huh?" I repeated, sitting upright in the chair, slightly interested in the story I missed while we were in Lior.
The two brothers nodded, but it was Al who continued: "Anyway, neither of us are too familiar with bio-alchemy to create a chimera, so the Colonel's offered to take us to a specialist."
I mentally sighed with relief. Finally, I'd have a break from hearing about that "Philosopher's stone" from either of them. But... bio-alchemy? I never heard of that kind of alchemy. I glanced out the window in thought. Maybe, just maybe, broadening my understanding of alchemy from the roots to where it branched off through types would benefit me into mastering transmutation.
"Well," I spoke, standing up and stretching my arms. "Let's not keep the Colonel waiting on us."
Both Al and Edward stared at my puzzled as I grabbed my black jacket off the coat hanger along with my matching hat.
"Wait," Edward began, blinking surprised. "You actually want to go?"
"Well, I kind of have to," I answered, feeding my arms through the sleeves. "Besides, I need to get out once in a while."
As I adjusted my hat, I followed the Elric brothers out into the hallway and closed the door behind us. Once we were all set, the three of us made our way through the winding halls of Eastern Headquarters and down the stairs until we reached the front gate. Parked just outside was a sleek black car, with Colonel Mustang standing in front of it. The raven-haired man grinned as we approached him, and gave a salute, which we returned before filing into the vehicle.
As I sat in the seat across from the two brothers, I just had to gaze up at Al confused. Even when we were riding in a vehicle, the boy still wore his armor. I was just surprised that his head didn't tear through the ceiling because of his height. The sound of the vehicle door slamming shut brought me back into reality, and soon the car jerked forward as the engine came alive. Soon, we were rolling down the road and out of the gates.
"So," I began breaking the few minutes of silence. "Who's this specialist we're seeing?"
Mustang pulled out clipboard, flipping through the pages as he read: "Shou Tucker, the Sewing Life Alchemist. He specializes in bio-alchemy. Two years ago, Tucker created a chimera that could comprehend a human's speech. That was what gave him his State Alchemist certification."
I had only read in alchemy books what chimeras were and how they were created. They were supposedly mutated forms of animals with their DNA mixed together. From what I researched, chimeras were a science constructed on dead or false starts. But… a chimera that could understand human language? That sounded just as preposterous as the rumor of the priest crafting flowers out of thin air.
"Comprehend human speech?" I repeated. Then, I faced the two brothers, who seemed just as perplexed as I was.
Edward put a hand to his chin in thought, but then his golden eyes widened as he glanced up at the Colonel in shock. "Wait, you mean it could talk? An actual chimera?"
I'll admit that even I was astounded as I glanced over at the Colonel. Who would've guessed that with the right ingredients, one could transmute a chimera that could speak the human language? The techniques of alchemy were much broader than I thought...
"Right," Mustang answered, glancing up at the three of use. "Apparently, it could; however, it only said one thing: 'I want to die'."
The three of us stared across the seats at the Colonel shocked etched on their faces. Just the thought of some mutated monster wanting nothing more than to quit living made me sick to my stomach. How could anyone say that?
"Soon after," Colonel Mustang continued, "it wouldn't eat anything until it got its wish."
"Man," I mused, slouching back in my seat. "I almost feel sorry for the creature."
Edward and his brother nodded in agreement, but said nothing more. For the remainder of the trip, neither of us uttered a single word, with our only thoughts on Tucker's chimera and learning bio alchemy.
~ . . * . . ~
Eventually the military car rolled to a complete stop in front of a grand mansion. I had to do a double take to make sure that we were in the right place. Honestly, I was expecting some run-down shack or just a simple one-storied home, not a humongous estate with the brick walls, the grand windows, and the large, wrought iron gates! Even after the four of us strode out of the vehicle and down the cobblestone pathway to the door, Edward, Al, and I just gazed around stupidly, while the Colonel rang the bell.
"Whoa..." Edward breathed in awe, continuing to let his eyes wander around the estate.
"You can say that again," I added.
Suddenly, there was a muted bark, and shadow blanketed over both the blonde alchemist and I. As my vision adjusted to the object above us, I screeched as I whirled around and dove to the side, barely dodging it. Edward only blinked, and was soon smothered beneath a gigantic Pyrenees, who only thumped his tail excitedly. I sat up and laughed as Ed released a gasp, freeing himself from underneath the massive canine.
"Brother!" Al cried, crouching by his brother's side. "Are you all right?"
Suddenly, the giant wooden door of the house squeaked open, followed by a tiny voice: "Alexander!"
Alphonse, Edward, and I glanced over to find a small girl, who couldn't be much younger than four or so, standing in the doorway. Her chocolate brown hair was pulled back into two braids, which hung down to her mid-back; and her wide, blue eyes were filled with curiosity and joy. She was dressed in a school-like uniform with a red collar shirt, and a pair of blue shorts, with matching shoes.
"Hey, Daddy! There's people outside!" the little girl cried in joy.
Then, a man, who I presumed was her father, walked up behind her. He shared his daughter's bright blue eyes, which were hidden behind a pair of round prescription glasses; however, his short hair was much lighter than the little girl's. The man was sporting a green collar shirt, with a black T-shirt underneath it, while he wore a pair of khaki pants.
"Nina," he spoke calmly to the little girl. "I thought I told you to tie the dog up in the backyard."
The little girl glanced up at her father with a sheepish smile. "Alexander looked like he needed some exercise."
Her father sighed, and while he spoke to the Colonel, I managed, (with the help of Alphonse of course), to pull Edward out from underneath the behemoth-like canine, who sat on the cobblestone pathway and thumped his tail on the ground. The little girl, Nina, rushed over to her pet and hugged him around the neck, nuzzling her little face in his fur. Tucker opened the door wider, allowing the four of us into his home.
While the three boys began to file in, I stood up, brushing the dust off my clothes, and then I reached my hand up to adjust my cap on my head; however, I couldn't feel it up there, even when I patted my head with my hand all I felt was my scraggly black hair. My first instinct was that Edward took it again, but as I glanced over at his figure retreating into the building, I couldn't spy my hat atop that blonde head.
"Is this yours?" a small voice spoke from below me.
Startled by the sudden voice, I glanced down to find the little girl by my side, holding up my black cap in her tiny hands.
"Thanks, kid." I spoke, taking the cap from her and placing it on my head. "I thought I lost it."
"You're welcome," the little girl answered, shuffling her feet timidly.
I could tell that she was most likely shy around me, most likely because I was a 'stranger' to her. All children her age weren't too fond of new people, so there was no wonder why she was so shy around me.
But, I just had to give her a reassuring smile... as best as I could anyway. "My name's Dani. What's yours?"
"Nina," she answered simply.
"That's a nice name."
"Thank you."
Silence filled the air between us, as Alexander, the dog, strode us to us and seated himself beside the little girl. Nina continued to wring her hands behind her back, and gaze around for a minute as if she were waiting for me to say something else.
I glanced around the gigantic courtyard. I wasn't the best conversationalist in the world, and I doubted that every toddler behaved the same.
"You know," I began, keeling down to her level. "You don't have to be so shy, Nina. I'll be visiting your daddy for a while today, but I'm sure we'll become the best of friends."
This grabbed the little girl's attention as she gazed up at me with wide blue eyes. "Really?"
I nodded in reply, earning a wide smile from her. Without warning, the little girl flung her arms around my neck, giggling with happiness. I wasn't sure how, or when, but some warm sensation overcame my body, and, eventually, I smiled, wrapping my arms around Nina's back. She was simply too adorable to shun away, and I couldn't get over the fact of how much she reminded me of myself when I was her age. However, Nina had much more than I ever had during my childhood.
"I used to be just like you, Nina," I whispered. "Don't worry. I'll always be here for you."
"Tremor," the deep voice of the colonel broke through the touchy-feely moment.
Nina and I broke apart slightly and turned our attention towards the black-haired man standing in the doorway with Nina's father.
"Are you coming in?" Mustang continued.
"With all due respect, sir," I called back. "I'm going to stay here with Nina for a while."
Mustang nodded understandingly, and then he saluted me, which I returned. Then, the colonel turned around, walking back into the mansion with the Sewing Life Alchemist, closing the wooden door behind him. As much as I wanted to learn about bio-alchemy from Tucker, I felt that Nina needed me more. I could remember back when I was just her age, cooped up in the house all day with no one but my parents.
"Dani," Nina's voice spoke. "Are you a girl?"
I froze at the question, and turned to her quizzically. How had she figured that out so quickly? Some would be thrown off easily by my short hair, yet Nina was able to see through my disguise. It sure was going to be difficult to lie to her, and I sure didn't want to do that. Then again, she was young, and I wasn't sure about trusting her with my secret. Glancing around, I made sure that no one, especially not the Colonel, was around before facing the little girl.
"Yes," I answered. "But, I'm pretending to be a boy."
Nina tilted her head in puzzlement. "Why?"
"Um, you see, I'm..." I trailed off thinking of an excuse she would take for granted. "I'm... undercover. Top secret."
"Oh." Then, she smiled. "Don't worry, I won't tell anyone."
I smiled down at her, but then she grabbed my hand and pulled me over to a cherry blossom tree, decorated in pink blossoms. The two of us sat down underneath the tree, while Alexander laid down beside Nina, who snapped off a twig of the leaf, bending and twisting it into a circle. Once she as finished, she smiled at her handiwork and place it atop the dog's head.
"Aww, Alexander looks so cute," I commented.
Nina nodded in reply. "Whenever Daddy's working, all I have is Alexander, so we play out in the yard together, or around the house. He's my best friend." Then, she gazed up at me, with a wide smile. "Did you ever have any friends?"
"Oh, well..." I trialed off, gazing out at the vast front yard. "Not really."
The little girl stared up at me surprised. "Did your Daddy work a lot too?"
I nodded in reply. "My Daddy was never home though."
"How long was he gone?"
"A few years."
"Did he ever come back?"
I gazed down at the thought, as images of that day flowed willingly into my mind. At that time I was almost twice as old as Nina was at that time, but still too young and naive to understand the reason why my father would never be returning home. As much as I wanted to cry, I couldn't, not with Nina around. Hell, wouldn't even cry if I was alone! I had to suck it up and show that I was a tough dog of the military.
Blinking away the tears, I forced a smile as I gazed down at Nina. "No, he didn't."
"Oh," she answered. Then, she smiled back up at me. "I hope he comes back home soon."
I chuckled as I patted her head with my hand. Of course, she was too young to understand either, and she was much too young to know. She was still young with her whole life ahead of her. She still had her father, unlike me. All I had was my mother; however, she was busy almost every day, and we barely spent a good hour of social time with each other, even if it was at the dinner table.
"You wanna play something?" Nina inquired.
"Sure," I answered. "What should we play?"
"Hide-and-Seek!" the little girl cheered.
"All right. You go and hide, while I count."
With that, I turned around facing the tree, burying my eyes in my arms as I counted out loud. I smiled as I heard the rustling bushes, and quick footsteps trotting on the cobblestone as Nina raced around the yard to find a hiding spot. Once I was finished, I called out to Nina that I was ready, and then I stood up and turned around, scanning the area. Instantly, I spotted Nina's little blue shoes peeking out from under a bush, but I dismissed it and walked over to a tree.
"Now, where could Nina have run off too?" I spoke out loud, searching in random spots other than the one she was obviously in. "She must be magic if she disappeared so quickly."
That remark earned a giggle from inside the bush, and I smiled as I walked in that direction.
"Nina," I called out. "Come out, come out, wherever you are."
Then, I slowly moved towards the bush, where Nina was hiding, and she responded by shuffling her little feet under the bush, thinking that I wouldn't be able to spot her. As soon as I took another step, however, a shadow fell over my body, and I halted on the spot. Confused, I glanced up, but quickly regretted my decision as I shrieked, hoping to dodge the descending blob of fur. Sadly, I wasn't quick enough, and I was smothered underneath the large canine. Sure didn't see that coming.
"Silly Alexander," Nina giggled, crawling out from her hiding spot. "Dani was supposed to find us, not you find her."
The dog barked in reply as his massive tail thumped the ground wildly. The little girl smiled at her pet as she stroked his thick fur, and laughed as Alexander licked her face.
"You sure are a big boy, aren't you?" I grunted, patting the dog's side.
Alexander faced me, blinking his pitch black eyes in curiosity. Then, he moved his head downward to my level sniffing my hand and my face, which he then proceeded to coat in his thick slobbery saliva. I made a face as the massive tongue swept across my face, but then began to laugh as a tickling sensation began.'
"Is this dog attracted to all alchemists?" a deep voice inquired from above. "Or is it just you and Fullmetal?"
The three of us glanced to find the Colonel with a sly grin on his face as he gazed down at us with his deep black eyes. I could easily detect that he was amused by the way I looked underneath the behemoth mutt. Keep on smiling Mustang, because the more you do, the more I'll hold it against you. Seriously, this was not hilarious... this was painful! In fact, with that thought in mind, I wriggled my body from underneath Alexander, who then, thankfully, stood up and seated himself on the lush grass beside Nina.
I sat across from the two, taking in a lungful of air before glancing back up at the Colonel. "So, I take it that the Elrics are still inside?"
Mustang nodded. "I'm heading out back to Central, but I'll send someone back for you, Al, and Fullmetal this evening."
With that he saluted, and I stood up straight saluting him back. After a while, the Colonel turned around and strode down the walkway to the awaiting black, military car. Nina, Alexander, and I watched as the engine roared and the vehicle rolled down the street, disappearing past the gates. Well, fun and games were over now, much to my dismay. Now, I had to get back to work.
"Thanks for letting me play with you, Nina," I spoke, kneeling down to her level. "But, now I have to go find my partners."
Nina frowned as she gazed up at me with her big sapphire blue eyes. "No, don't go, big sister. Stay here and play with me."
My heart twisted at the words "big sister" and even a lump began to form in my throat. It sure was going to be difficult to abandon her with Alexander, especially since I was probably the only human-friend she's ever had in her entire life. Even though I was sent to this mansion to research and study as much as I could about bio-alchemy, part of me wanted to stay with Nina.
Sighing, I glanced down at her. "I'm sorry, Nina. But, I have to go help my frien- er, partners out." The little girl looked down sadly, but I placed my hand under her chin, lifting it up to face me. As soon as our eyes met, I gave her a reassuring smile. "We'll play some other time, okay?"
The little girl nodded sadly, and then I stood up and walked down the cobble stone pathway into the giant mansion. It pained me to leave the poor girl all by her lonesome with no one to hang out with but her faithful companion. But, work before pleasure, that was for sure.
"Nina sure has taken a strong liking to you," a voice spoke from beside me.
Startled, I whirled around to find Shou Tucker carrying a set of grimy dishes.
"I guess," I answered in reply, gazing around at the state of the interior of the house.
Man, even though the outside of the house was gigantic, and adorned with large windows and a lavish courtyard, the inside... well, it was definitely not what I was expecting that was for sure. There were books lying around the floor along with a few scraps of paper, while dishes covered in filth were piled up to the ceiling! I wouldn't call it clustered, though. I mean, one could still see the floor!
"Sorry about the mess," Tucker spoke. "Things got out of hand after my wife left."
Turning back to the man, I gave him a reassuring smile. "Hey, don't worry about it." Then, his reason ran through my mind again. "Your wife left?"
The man nodded as he organized the dishes on the counter. "Two years ago."
I could tell that the issue was personal to him, so I decided to drop the subject as my gaze began wandering around the grand home.
"So, the Colonel tells me that you're the Tremor Alchemist, correct?" Shou spoke.
"Yes," I answered, turning to him.
"You're definitely not what I imagined when the Colonel first told me about you."
I grimaced at the thought. "I get that a lot."
Tucker only smiled. "I assume that you're looking for your friends, right?"
"Yes, sir."
With that, Tucker walked through the grand foyer and down the long corridors of the mansion, while I followed behind him. I gazed around at the large painting adorning the pastel walls of the home, and the arrangement of tables topped with vases, some filled with an arrangement of flowers. After a while, Tucker came to a halt in front of two, large double-doors. Turning the handle, he pushed the door open, revealing a room with thousands of shelves lining the walls filled with nothing but books, and two adjacent pairs of shelves running horizontally along the floor. From the looks of it, the room was no doubt a library.
"They're somewhere around in here," Tucker explained, scanning the room. Then, he glanced down at me. "I'll let you get to work, then."
"Thank you Mr. Tucker," I spoke.
The man smiled and nodded. Then, he turned around to exit the library. "Call me if you need any assistance."
After the wooden doors shut tight, I wound around the bookshelves, and strode down the aisles searching for either of the Elric Brothers. I eventually passed by the towering suit of armor, who stood by one of the shelves, engaged in a book. Hell, I think his mind was so sucking into the text that he wasn't paying an attention to the outside world. Of course, as soon as I found his older brother, I could say the same for him.
Edward had a pile of books stacked beside him as he sat cross-legged on the wooden floor. Using one hand to hold the book, he placed his free hand on his chin, fixing his golden eyes on the text as he thoroughly examined each page. I sighed as I gazed down at him. I was used to the two brothers zoning out into their own little world as their minds were sucked into the pages of a book.
Glancing up at the grandfather clock, it read a little after noon. Mustang wouldn't send one of his men back for a couple of hours, so I was pretty much stuck in the library, surrounded by books with rotting pages and covered in dust. Well, I came here to learn more about bio-alchemy, so I might as well begin. Striding over to one of the shelves, I ran my finger across the spines of the books, trying to figure out which one I would start with. Pulling out a few of the Introduction to Bio-Alchemy books, I sat myself down in a corner and opened the book up.
~ . . * . . ~
Jerking my head up, I glanced around at my surroundings. Walls were lined with shelves of books, and the Elric brothers remained in the positions they were in before. As I looked down at myself, I realized that I was lying on my back on the stiff wooden floor with the book I was reading lying face down on my stomach. Sitting up, I stretched my arms and back relieving my spine of the stiffness. Had I fallen asleep? Picking up the book, I noticed that I was on the fiftieth page or so, so I knew for sure that I had read a good amount before passing out on the ground.
Sighing, I glanced up at the grandfather clock, to check the time. Of course, I had to make a double take to make sure I wasn't hallucination. It was almost five o'clock already? Mustang would be sending someone over in an hour.
Standing up, I walked over to Edward, who remained seated on the ground, surrounded by his small mountain of books. "Hey, Elric, I'm not sure if you'll be able to finish all of those today."
"Mmhm," he hummed in reply.
"Are you thinking about taking them back to Headquarters?" I inquired.
"Mmhm."
I eyed him skeptically. "Can all you say is 'Mmhm'?"
"Mmhm."
Rolling my eyes at him, I glanced over at Alphonse. He was searching through one of the shelves, presumably for another book. Then, a thought crossed my mind as I gazed back down at the blonde alchemist.
"Hey, Elric," I spoke with a smirk. "If Al brought back a lizard with rigor mortis, would you eat it?"
"Mmhm," he answered.
I placed my hand over my mouth to hold back my laughter. Yep, he was in his own little world with his mind focused on only one thing. Hell, Edward probably didn't even know that he was answering my questions! Man, this was just too much fun!
Suddenly, the sound of giggling and clanking against the floor metal echoed through the room, causing Edward to come back to reality. Lowering the book, the blonde alchemist gazed around the library confused.
"What in the world-?" I began.
Apparently, my voice startled Ed because he shrieked, tossing the book in the air and fell backwards onto the floor. Nope, he had absolutely no idea that I had been standing beside him for a while.
"What the...?" he began, sitting up. "Russo! How long have you been standing there?"
"A few minutes," I answered blandly.
He groaned, standing up and rubbing his sore back. I wouldn't blame him if his spine was stiff. He was sitting in that bent over position for almost five hours. The two of us strode down the aisles, following the ruckus in the library as it grew louder the closer we approached. As Edward and I turned a corner, we found Al trotting in place with Nina perched on his shoulders, smiling from ear to ear as she squealed with joy.
"Al!" Edward shouted. His brother stopped and turned to him. "You're supposed to be reading!"
"Um..." Al hesitated to answer. "Nina wanted to play."
I smiled at the two of them, and then I gazed up at the little girl. I wouldn't blame her if she was bored; heck, she looked like she was on the brink of crying when I left the courtyard earlier.
Nina soon caught my gaze, and then she glanced down at my with a wide grin. "Look at me, big sister! I'm taller than you!"
I chuckled at her child-likeness. "You sure are, Nina."
"Al, we didn't come here to play horsey," Edward hissed. "We came here to-"
But he was cut off as a large, dark shadow encased the both of us. Edward and I glanced up to find the giant fur-ball mere inches from landing on us. I should've known Alexander would follow Nina inside, but, sadly, I wasn't quick enough to dodge him. This time, Edward and I were both victims pinned beneath the behemoth mutt. The husky canine wagged its tail happily as it licked the side of Edward's head, messing up his hair.
"Looks like Alexander wants to play too," Nina remarked.
The dog began to wine as if he were saying 'yes' to the little girl's comments. Using my elbows to crawl, I managed, with a little bit of difficulty, to wriggle myself out from underneath the massive canine. As I sat up facing Edward, I noticed a smirk cross his face, as he glanced over at the dog.
"Oh, so you wanna play, huh?" the blonde spoke.
Then, he crawled out from underneath the mutt and stood up. I noticed a menacing expression appear on Edwards face, while that crooked grin never disappeared. All right, I've seen Edward at his worst, but this look was starting to freak me out a little.
"You may have caught me twice, dog," he growled. "But playtime is up." Then, he faced the canine with a fierce, determined gaze. "I'M NOT GOING TO LOSE TO YOU AGAIN! FOR I, EDWARD ELRIC, WILL USE MY POWERS TO DESTROY YOU!"
Instantly after that, Edward began dashing through the library so fast that neither Al, Nina, nor I had the time to blink. I sighed as I stood up, dusting my clothes off. Well, one thing was for sure, when Edward was determined, he wasn't going to lose his focus.
~ . . * . . ~
"Hey, Chief," the familiar voice of Second Lieutenant Jean Havoc echoed through the halls. "Your ride's here."
As soon as Tucker led him to the library, he raised an eyebrow in confusion stared down at Edward, who had been pinned flat on his stomach by Alexander. Nina sat beside her dog with her arms wrapped around his neck as she smiled up at her father. I stood beside Al, and shook my head at the sight of the blonde alchemist pinned beneath the giant ball of white fur. Well, he was determined, yet he didn't quite catch the dog.
"What's going on down there, Ed?" Havoc inquired.
"Nothing much," the blonde grunted in reply. "Just... taking a break from a long day of research, that's all."
Edward slithered his way from underneath Alexander, and stood up, brushing the dust off of his clothes.
"I'm sure you must be tired after all that," Tucker spoke. "How about you all come back tomorrow and see if you can find anything useful?"
Nina's face lit up as she stood up excitedly. "You're going to come back?"
"Yep," Al answered. "We'll play some more then."
"Hooray!" the little girl cheered.
"Well, come along you three," Havoc spoke. "We don't want to worry the Colonel."
Al and I nodded, while Edward only grunted; then, Tucker led the four of us back through the maze-like corridors of the massive home until we reached the main entrance. The Sewing Life Alchemist pushed the large wooden doors open, and we stepped out into the fresh, evening air. I gazed up at the orange-painted sky with the giant yellow orb setting behind the tops of the roofs of the houses across the street.
"See you tomorrow, Dani!" Nina called out as we strode down the stone walkway.
I turned around to her and smiled, waving goodbye, then I caught up with Edward and Alphonse as the three of us strode over to the black military vehicle. Havoc stopped to give a report to Tucker about something to do with "Assessment Day", but the three of us ignored him and climbed into the vehicle. Edward released a heavy sigh as he slouched in his seat, while I made myself comfortable across from the two of them. It sure had been a long day indeed, especially since I had to prevent Edward from hurting the poor dog, and nearly trashing the library.
"Hey, Dani," Al's voice spoke.
"Yeah?" I answered wearily.
"You sure seemed... different when we were playing with Nina," the boy in front of me spoke.
I raised an eyebrow in confusion. "What do you mean by that?"
"Well, uh..." the suit of armor began. "Most of the time, you're closed off and..."
"Don't forget to mention that she's a-" Edward sneered.
However, I cut him off as I stood up, grabbed the collar of his jacket and yanked him towards my face so that my eyes were locked onto his. "What were you going to say, Elric?"
"That you're a bitch most of the time," he answered with a smirk.
He did not just say that.
"OH, LIKE YOU'RE THE ONE TO TALK!" I hollered. "YOU DON'T KNOW HOW MANY TIMES A DAY I KEEP MYSELF FROM WANTING TO BREAK EVERY SINGLE BONE IN YOUR BODY! YOU KNOW WHAT? JUST FOR SAYING THAT I OUTTA…" Then, I caught myself before I could finish and sighed as I pushed him back into his seat while I plopped down in my own, crossing my leg over my knee. "You know what? Let's just get back to HQ without killing each other, all right? I'm tired from chasing you around that library."
With that, I rested my arm on the window sill as I gazed out at the scene. Havoc entered the vehicle, taking a seat beside me, and then he closed the door beside him. Instantly after that, the vehicle began rolling down the pathway and towards Eastern Command. As irritated as I was with Edward for the umpteenth time in a row, I allowed a small smile to cross my face as I pictured Nina and Alexander. I sighed dreamily, knowing that I would be able to see them once again.
~ . . * . . ~
The night flew by quickly, and soon, Edward, Alphonse and I were back at the Tucker estate. From the look on Edward's face, I could tell that he was ready to dive into that mountain of books he left yesterday, and, most likely, start a brand new pile. Al was ready to play with Nina, and I'll admit that I was excited to see the little brunette girl once again. She was the only thing on my mind the entire trip to the mansion.
"Ah, Edward, Daniel, Al," Tucker spoke, opening the door. "Thanks for stopping by. Please, do come in."
Once again, the Colonel bid us farewell, saying that he would send someone to pick us up that evening. The three of us traveled into the mansion, which was, much to my expectations, still cluttered. It didn't bother me much, and I began to follow the two Elric brothers and Mr. Tucker down the hall to the library.
"Dani!" a small voice cried.
The four of us came to a halt upon hearing my name, and then we turned around. As soon as my eyes landed on the owner of the voice, I couldn't help but smile. Keeling down on one knee, I stretched out my arms, welcoming the little girl into my arms. Nina, dressed in a pink T-shirt and beige overalls, giggled as she threw her arms around me, and we held each other tight, never wanting to let go.
"She's been excited to see you all day," Tucker explained. "All night, and all this morning, she's been talking about Dani coming over."
"Ready to play?" Nina asked.
"Well..." I began, not wanting to hurt her feelings.
"We're going to study for a minute in the library," Al answered for me. Nina frowned up at him, but the suit of armor quickly recovered. "But, we'll play later, okay?"
The little girl smiled. "Okay."
I smiled down at her, and then I stood up and followed behind Ed and Al into the library. Tucker left the books in their former places from the day before, and Edward dashed into the room ready to dive into the mountain of books, while Al and I calmly strode into the room to our places. We hauled our books over to a corner so that we could read together and share any important information we found out. Opening the book, I fixed my eyes on the page. No time for nodding off now.
Well, the three of us got a good hour or so of studying in before Nina and Alexander snuck into the room. Of course, we didn't shoo her away. Instead, Nina sat down between Al and me, lounging against her dog's fur. Edward continued to focus on his reading while Nina, Al, and I struck up a conversation.
"So, is it just you and your dad at home?" the suit of armor inquired.
Nina nodded. "Mommy left home two years ago."
Al stared at her taken aback, but spoke calmly: "Your mother left you alone with your dad?"
"Daddy said she went to live with her parents," the little girl answered.
Even though his face was hidden by the helmet, I could tell that Al was feeling the slightest bit of sympathy for the girl. I know for a fact that i was, but I wouldn't dare show it. If Edward caught the slightest glimpse of my soft-side, I wouldn't hear the end of his teasing!
"You must be lonely with no one but your dad around," Alphonse spoke.
Nina smiled, but shook her head. "Daddy's really nice, and I've got Alexander to play with."
With that she wrapped her arms around the canine's neck, nuzzling her little face in his fur. I smiled down at her, but it quickly faded once I noticed Nina's eye droop as she released a small sigh.
"But, Daddy's been his lab a lot," she continued. "So, I guess that does make me a little lonely."
I patted the top of her head, giving her a reassuring smile. I knew how she felt, that was for sure; however, I never had an animal companion like Alexander to keep me company. Glancing over at the two brothers, I could see sympathy forming in their eyes, especially on Edward, who had just glanced up from his book and over at the little girl.
Suddenly, Edward slammed his book closed, causing Nina to glance up confused. He stood up, stretching his arms releasing the widest (and most obnoxious I might add) yawn. Al glanced over at his brother as perplexed as Nina and I were.
"Man, my arms are aching like crazy," he spoke, rotating his shoulder around.
"Maybe you should move around for a while, Brother," Alphonse suggested.
Then, I noticed the corner of Edward's mouth curl up into a smirk as he continued to rotate his arms, relieving himself of the aching and soreness. As he twisted his right arm around, however, could hear the sound of metal scraping against each other. That raised my curiosity some more, but I shrugged the thought of thinking that it was Al moving his head to face his older brother.
"Sounds good to me, Al," the blonde answered. Then, he pointed at Alexander. "Hey, mutt!"
The dog lifted his head up in response, letting out a bark in reply. Nina's confused gaze traveled over to Edward, who only continued to grin at the hunk of fur with four legs.
"You look like you could use some exercise," the Fullmetal Alchemist spoke.
I smiled over at him, while Al closed his book, glancing down at the little girl and her dog.
"Why don't we go with them, Nina?" the suit of armor asked.
The little girl blinked as she glanced from the two boys, and then up at me. I only smiled down at her and patted her on the head. She smiled back, and then the five of us walked out of the library and into the courtyard outside.
I stood beside Alphonse underneath a tree as we watched Edward laugh running away from Alexander, ridden by Nina, who only giggled along with him. Edward's cries of "Can't catch up with me!" and, "Too fast for ya, mutt?" echoed through the courtyard. Nina sure had changed since yesterday. She was timid and shy when I first met her, and now she's opened up to not only me but Al and Edward as well.
"I wonder what made Ed decide to play with her," I mused.
"I think it's because he and I both can relate to Nina's relationship with her dad," Alphonse answered.
Raising an eyebrow in confusion, I glanced up at him.
"When Edward and I were younger," the suit of armor began. "Our dad would study alchemy for hours in his office. He never was around much at home, since he was working all the time."
"Oh," I spoke sympathetically.
"Big sister Dani!" Nina's voice cried out as Alexander chased Edward around in a circle. "Come and play!"
"Coming!" I called out, racing into the courtyard.
I probably should've been looking where I was going because soon a blue strobe of light from Alchemy flashed through the courtyard blinding me for a minute. As my eyes began to readjust, I glanced up to find a blur of white rush straight towards me. I identified the blur as Alexander, who was probably spooked by the sudden flash of light, because in mere seconds, I was trampled by the massive canine.
~ . . * . . ~
"Big sister Dani...?" a voice spoke gently.
The voice sounded like it was miles away, as my vision was nothing but clouded darkness. Eventually light filtered in through my eyelids as my eyesight revealed three out of focus faces hovering over mine.
"You okay, Circles?" another voice inquired.
I groaned as a throbbing pain coursed through my skull. My vision gradually grew clear, but suddenly there was a white blob hovering over me. I raised an eyebrow in confusion as I stared up at it; but suddenly, a long tongue was swept across my face, coating it in sopping wet saliva. I gagged quickly sitting up straight, and then rubbed my face with my sleeve sputtering out the foreign spit that leaked into my mouth.
Blinking a few times, I glanced up to find my vision had cleared, revealing the faces of Edward, Alphonse and Nina. Turning around, I found that the white blob was none other than Alexander, sitting on the ground beside me.
"Guess we could call that the 'kiss-of-life'," Edward sneered.
I quickly whirled around to face him, gritting my teeth in irritation. "And just what's that supposed to mean, Elric?"
"Well, we were close to burying out on in the courtyard until the mutt kissed you," the blonde answered. "Of course, that's probably the only time in your life you'll ever get kissed."
"THAT'S IT!" I snapped, scrambling to my feet.
With that, I took off running after Edward, who was sprinting around the entire courtyard like a jackrabbit. How did he have so much energy? Even as my legs grew tired, he was running without even breaking a sweat! Then, an idea popped into my mind as I slid to a halt. Smirking, I climbed up the tree Al and I were standing under previously. I stayed there for a while until I noticed the blonde walk towards the tree glancing around and calling out my name.
"Dani? Where'd you go-" he began.
However, I cut him off by pouncing on him from the tree, pinning him to the ground flat on his stomach. Straddling his waist with my legs, I held down one of his arms, and twisted his other arm behind his back.
"Ow!" Edward screeched in pain. "Okay, okay, you win! UNCLE!"
Suddenly, a shadow loomed over us, but neither Ed nor I had enough time to glance up. In an instant, I was sandwiched between Edward and the behemoth mutt, who sat on top of us, thumping his tail on the ground. Edward and I groaned as Alexander licked the blonde's hair, causing it to stand on end. Nina raced over to us and threw her arms around her dog's neck, earning her a slobbery lick from the mutt.
We spent another hour playing in the courtyard with Nina before heading back into the library. Evening soon rolled around, and Tucker called us into the dining room to talk to us about his "Assessment Day". Nina sat on the floor, stroking Alexander's thick, white fur, not much interested in the conversation among the four of us.
"So, what's the big deal about this 'Assessment Day', Mr. Tucker?" I inquired, breaking through the silence.
"Well, you see, Daniel," he began dismayed, adjusting his glasses.
The room grew silent as the man rested his arms on the table and glanced down as if he were reflecting on a tragic event in the past. Edward, Al, and I sat at the table anxiously awaiting his answer.
"Before I received my State Alchemist certification, our life was terrible," Tucker began. "We suffered through poverty, and my wife couldn't stand it, so she left. That's why I can't fail this assessment. I don't think I could stand going back to a poor life."
"You'll do fine, Daddy!" Nina spoke up. "If you don't pass, me and Alexander will growl at them! Then they'll just have to say 'yes'!"
I smiled down at Nina. For a four-year-old she sure was an optimistic one. Alphonse even encouraged Nina's promise to her father. As I glanced over at Mr. Tucker, I noticed that he had a calm smile spread across his face as he gazed down at his daughter.
"Nina," he spoke kindly. "How about this? I could take half of the day off tomorrow, and we'll play together, all right?"
The little girl perked up, and whirled around to face her father, beaming with happiness. "Really, Daddy?"
Tucker nodded in reply. Out of overflowing joy, Nina leapt into her father's lap and threw her arms around his neck. It was nice to see Mr. Tucker take the time off from his work and spend it with his beloved daughter. She definitely needed the quality time.
~ . . * . . ~
Dark clouds hovered in the dim, afternoon sky, signifying the coming of rain. In fact, if I wasn't mistaken, I thought I heard the sound of rumbling thunder off in the distance. Well, nothing a little bad weather couldn't hurt. We just wouldn't be able to play outside with Nina. The black military car parked outside the front gates of the mansion, and then Al, Edward, and I stepped onto the cobble stone pathway. We thanked our driver for dropping us off, and then waved as the vehicle rolled down the road.
"Last one to the door is a rotten egg!" Edward cried, whirling around and darting off down the pathway.
"Hey!" I called out, racing after him. "You got a head start!"
Whether the Fullmetal Alchemist got a head start or not, he would pass me anyway. Damn my lack of lower muscle strength... Suddenly a thought crossed my mind, and I slid to a halt. Keeping my glance locked on the blonde scurrying over to the door, I slammed my hands down on the cobblestone pathway. Instantly a slab of stone jerked out of the pathway, causing Edward to trip over it and fall forward. Without a moment to lose, I scurried to my feet and darted straight towards the door. I laughed and made a face at Edward as I zipped towards the door, placing my hand on it. Thank goodness I kept those circles etched on my gloves.
"No fair!" Ed hollered, pointing an accusing finger at me. "You cheated!"
"There was nothing about not using alchemy," I answered simply. When the blonde only groaned in response, I smirked. "Don't be such a sore loser, Elric," I crossed my arms over my chest, smiling triumphantly. "I beat you for the very first time, so I deserve bragging rights."
"Oh yeah?" he spoke from beside me. "Well, for losing to a cheater, I deserve this!"
With that, he swept my hat off from the top of my head. Whirling around on my heel, I chased after him through the courtyard. Edward stopped to turn around and face me; but as I reached out my hand to snatch my black cap, the blonde reeled his hand back so that I missed. The blonde chuckled at every failed attempt I made to snatch my hat. Oh yeah, Ed, this was hilarious.
"Give it back, Elric!" I demanded.
"Only if you can snatch it," he teased, switching the hat to his other hand.
"I'm serious! Give it back before you ruin it!" I retorted.
"Why's this hat so important to you anyway?"
"IT WAS MY FATHER'S!"
With that, I ripped the cap from his hands and glared at him. Edward only blinked as he stared at me, he's amusement completely morphed into puzzlement. Al, who stood a few feet behind his brother, gave me the same glance. Ignoring the two of them, I turned away from them releasing a deep breath, and then I adjusted my black cap on top of my head.
"C'mon, you guys," I spoke, walking towards the front door. "We can't keep Mr. Tucker waiting."
As soon as I reached the towering pair of doors, Edward and Al stood on the stone steps. Reaching my hand up, I grabbed the rope of the bell and rung it a few time. Then, I let go and took a step back, standing beside Edward. The three of us waited for what felt like an hour; however, no one greeted us. I raised an eyebrow in confusion as I stared at the door, and then I glanced over at the two boys.
"Mr. Tucker did say he was going to be home, right?" I inquired.
"He should be," Edward answered, just as confused as I was.
Then, Al took a step up and knocked firmly on the door. Nothing. Not even the sound of approaching footstep could be heard from the other side of the door. Edward and I exchanged a confused glance, and then looked up at Al, who placed his hand on the door. Surprisingly, the door was unlocked, allowing Al to open it with ease.
"We're here, Mr. Tucker," the boy called into the darkness of the foyer. "Thanks for having us again."
When no one gave a reply, I knew something was terribly wrong; and as I glanced over at the blonde, I could tell that he was concerned as well. So many thoughts began racing around in my mind: 'Were they robbed last night?', 'Did someone kidnap Nina?' or worse, 'Did someone kill them?' Shaking away the thought, I followed the Elric brothers into the mansion. We strode down the winding, deserted corridors searching for either Tucker or his daughter, but there was no movement made anywhere.
I cupped my hands around my mouth. "Anyone home?"
"Mr. Tucker?" Al called out.
"Nina?" Edward added.
The longer we searched, the more worried I became. What could've happened to them? I didn't even want to imagine a scene with blood stained along the walls of a room with the body of the little girl and her father lying limp on the ground. I shuddered quickly banishing the thought from my mind, and then I glanced up to find that I had slowed down behind the Elric Brothers. Picking up my pace, I caught up to them, and we continued our search.
After a good half-an-hour of searching, Edward, Al, and I stumbled upon a pair of large metal doors. I tilted my head curiously, wondering what kind of room this was and what Shou Tucker used it for.
"He must be in his lab," Al suggested.
"Yeah," Edward agreed. "It's the last place we haven't checked yet."
Taking that as his cue, Al grabbed both of the metal handles and slowly opened the door allowing the light from the hall to filter into the benighted room. As my eyes began to adjust to the darkness, I soon spotted the crouched figure of the man of the estate with his back to us. I sighed in relief, glad that he was all right. Well, that eliminated my worst nightmare of him and his daughter being killed.
Ed released a sigh of relief as he gazed at the man crouched on the floor. "There you are. We were starting to get worried."
Tucker raised his head and turned to us with a sickening smile on his face. Chills ran down my spine as the light from the hallway reflected off his glasses, while that grin of his seemed to grow wider.
"I finally did it, boys," the man spoke. "A chimera that understands human speech."
With that, he moved to the side, allowing the three of us to examine a figure that had been hidden behind him. I raised an eyebrow in confusion as I gazed across the room at the creature. At first I thought it was Alexander because of the thick fur and the way it sat on its hind legs, but upon further inspection revealed a dog-like beast with a chocolate-brown mane stretching from the top of its head and along its back. Its snout was stretched, and its paws were much too large for its body.
"There's no need to be afraid," Tucker spoke, gesturing us to walk into the room. "Let me show you."
We did as bidden, but an uneasy feeling began to stir through my body as I approached the creature.
"Look," Tucker spoke to the creature, crouching down once more. "That person is Edward."
"Ed...ward..." the creature spoke with garbled speech, that reminded me of a broken record.
Tucker beamed as he ruffled the chimera's fur atop it head. "Good job."
"Whoa..." Edward breathed in awe, staring wide-eyes down at the mutant. "It can speak!"
The man laughed, with that crooked smile still on his face. "I can't lose my certification now!"
Something screamed 'wrong' by Mr. Tucker's actions. He was acting rather strange... But, I brushed the thought away as I sat on my knees beside Edward in front of the creature. It was amazing that someone could actually transmute a chimera that could actually speak. I was in awe as much as the blonde alchemist was. The creature gazed up at me with eerie, glowing yellow eyes, tilting its head in confusion, and then it turned to face the blonde.
"Ed...ward..." it's ominous voice murmured from its throat.
While Fullmetal continued to gaze down at the beast with awe in his golden eyes, the creature continued to repeat his name, not averting it eyes from his. Suddenly, the edges of its mouth curled back into what seemed like a smile.
"Big ... brother ... Ed ... ward," it spoke.
Raising an eyebrow in confusion, I tilted my head to the side, gazing down at the creature. Tucker had only taught it to say Edward's name, right? Or, had he taught it other words before we entered the laboratory?
"Mr. Tucker?" Edward hissed through his teeth. "When did you receive your State Certification?"
Still perplexed, I glanced up at the man, who placed a hand to his chin in thought. "Two years ago, I believe."
Thunder echoed from beyond the walls of the mansion, while the pouring rain began tapping against the window and roof of the building. A strobe of lightning flickered through the cracks in the shutters covering the window.
"When did your wife leave?" Edward inquired, still seething in his place.
Mr. Tucker sighed as he hung his head in dismay, remembering that fateful day. "That was two years ago, too."
"May I ask one more question?" Edward asked, his voice trembling with anger. Then, he glared over his shoulder at the man. "Where are Nina and Alexander?"
Alphonse gasped from behind me, but I only glanced from Edward and Mr. Tucker still puzzled. "Yeah, where are those two? I haven't seen them all day."
No one answered as the room grew deathly quiet. I sighed, knowing that it would be a while before she came running into the room. A smile crossed my face as I closed my eyes, picturing little Nina with that smile spread across her face as she raced into my arms.
"Dani...?"
Even now I could hear her voice. Suddenly, thick fur brushed against my hand, bringing me back to reality. Blinking I glanced down at the chimera, who continued to rub its head underneath my hand, before glancing up at me with that 'smile' it gave Edward.
"Big... sis ... ter ... Dani," its garbled voice uttered.
My eye widened as I gasped, jerking away from the beast. I scooted backward until my back rested against Al's cold, metal leg; however, my gaze remained locked on the mutant's. No... I thought. This can't be real... How could this happen to someone so innocent?
"Nina?" I whispered.
Tucker muttered something but trailed off, as Edward left my side. My eyes never left the chimera's glowing ones as I debated whether I was in reality or trapped in a horrible nightmare. No matter how many times I tightly shut my eyes for a while, they always opened back up revealing the pitiful creature gazing at me. How could Tucker do this to Nina, his own flesh and blood?
"Nina," I whispered again, crawling over to the creature.
But, I trailed off as my face was mere inches away from the creature's muzzle. I shook my head trying to deny the truth, but how could I when it was staring back at me? Visions of Nina as a little girl flashed through my mind, as well as the moments we shared playing out in the courtyard. It was only days ago when we built up a quick relationship with each other; and even though the two of us weren't related, I still considered her a sister.
Unable to hold back the tears that forced their way out of my eye, I threw my arms around the chimera's neck, burying my face in its thick fur. Gently sobbing, I ran my fingers through the creature's chocolate brown mane, what used to be the braided locks of the innocent four-year-old. Edward' enraged voice rang through the laboratory, but I ignored him as my mind continued to dwell on the few, short days we spent at the Tucker estate.
"I'm so sorry, Nina," I muttered out. "I... I said that... I'd always be there for you." Then, I hugged her tighter. "But, I wasn't this time..."
Nina rubbed her head against my shoulder, as if it were her way of comforting me. I'll admit that it did make me smile a little. Even though her father had cruelly mixed his daughter and the family dog together, she was still Nina deep down.
"SHUT UP!" Edward's voice screamed.
Snapping my head up, I glanced over to find Mr. Tucker slammed against a wall while his glasses lay on the ground. The blonde shorty clenched the man's shirt; and as I took a closer look at Fullmetal's expression, I almost backed away out of fear. Edward's golden eyes were burning with infuriation, while his hands remained taught, one grasping the man's shirt, while his free hand remained pulled back, readying for a punch.
Despite the blood leaking from his nose, and the bruise on his cheek, Tucker began to laugh manically. "We aren't much different, after all! You're just like me!"
I wasn't sure what he meant by that, but it sure ticked Edward off. Trust me, I've seen the blonde pissed off whenever someone called him short, hell I even got to experience his rage first hand! But, this... the statement brought a whole new level to Edward's already boiling anger.
"No, I'm not!" the blonde retorted.
"Yes!" Tucker exclaimed. "The opportunity was right in front of our eyes, and we took it!"
"NO!" Edward screamed, landing another blow on the man's cheek. "Not me! Alchemist's would never do that!"
The blonde launched his fist repeatedly after every sentence of denial. If it was denial... I wasn't quite sure. Either way, I noticed Tucker's nose bleeding terrible, while a few teeth clew from his jaw. A ticked off as I was with him for using his own daughter as a guinea pig for his experiment, I had to stand up for him.
"Stop it, Elric!" I shouted.
"I'm not..." Edward mused. "I'M NOT LIKE YOU-!"
"BROTHER!" Al screamed, grabbing Edward's wrist before he could land another blow to the side of the man's face. "He'll die if you keep hurting him!"
The blonde alchemist relaxed somewhat, but his eyes never left the man's face. Tucker looked to be between the line of consciousness and unconsciousness as he slouched against the wall. Multiple scratches were formed on his face, and the blood was dripping from his nose and mouth over his clothes. Nina stood up and walked away from me, seating herself beside the blonde alchemist, who relaxed and gazed down at her.
"No... Ed..." she murmured.
With his eyes still locked on the creature, Edward released his gasp on Mr. Tucker, allowing him to slide down the wall onto the floor. Nina whined, much like Alexander would, and walked over to her father, licking the wounds on his face. My knees were shaking as I stood up beside Al, and the three of us gazed down at the father and transmuted daughter. I still couldn't believe that Tucker would stoop so low to make a mutant out of his own daughter! Well, nothing could erase this now...
"Ed?" the suit of armor asked.
However, his brother did not answer. I glared over at the so-called father to Nina, and then I turned my attention back over at his transmuted creature. Nina didn't deserve that. She had no right to be trapped in that mutant body!
Al knelt down, stroking Nina' head with his gloved hand. "I'm sorry this happened. I wish we could change you back, Nina, but we don't have the power."
I didn't say anything, and then I glanced down at the wooden floor with the visor of my cap shielding my eyes. Edward continued to stare down Tucker, and Al was paying more attention to Nina, I kept my eyes hidden as a few tears streaked down my face. How could he do such a thing? I knew that I had asked myself that over and over, but I still couldn't release the thought from my mind.
Suddenly, there was a brush against my leg, and my gaze traveled over to find Nina looking up at me with that pitiful face. I knelt down to her level placing a hand on her head, brushing her mane back.
"Don't ... cry ... big ... sister ..." she spoke.
I smiled at her. "I'll be fine, Nina."
"Can we ... play ... now ...?" the creature asked, glancing from Al and I hopefully.
Tucker murmured insanely in his place at the wall, and then the sound of metal colliding onto the floor echoed through the room. I glanced over to find Tucker coddling his State Alchemist pocket watch with a broken chain, and then my eyes trailed over to Ed, who was seething as he glared down at the man.
"Like hell you're staying a State Alchemist..." the blonde hissed.
Then, Edward released a painful scream as he knelt down on the ground sobbing in not only pain from his wounded eye, but also for Nina.
~ . . * . . ~
"Right, Fullmetal? Tremor?" The colonel's deep voice spoke, breaking through my thoughts.
Edward, Alphonse, and I sat on the steps of Eastern Command headquarters. Colonel Mustang and Hawkeye stopped by to talk to us about the situation with Tucker on their way to the military vehicle parked out front.
Ignoring him, I kept my gazed fixed on the ground. I didn't care how soaked my clothes were from the pouring rain; I didn't care if my hair clung to the back of my neck; hell, I didn't care if I caught pneumonia out in this weather! Sighing, I slowly sat up fixing my eye up at the sky. How could this happen to Nina? How could we let this happen? How could anyone let this happen to an innocent young girl?
"You'll come across more cases such as this in the future," Mustang spoke. "You may even get your hands dirty as well."
With that, he and Hawkeye traveled down the stairs and towards the military car. I scoffed to myself, disgusted by his calm tone, and I glared daggers at hi retreating back. How could he be calm at a time like this?
Then, the colonel stopped, and glanced over his shoulder at the blonde. "What? Are you going to sulk every time something like this happens?"
"I don't care if we're dogs of the military," Edward murmured, with hi head still hung. "We may be thought of as 'devils', but I don't care..."
Edward clenched the sleeves of his red cloak, murmuring something else; however, I was unable to comprehend it. Turning my attention towards Mustang, I glared at him at he continued to the black vehicle. 'Be thou for the people...' that was the alchemist's motto. We weren't there for Nina, and neither was he! How could he shrug the matter off like this?
"We're not devils nor gods..." Edward spoke up, causing Mustang and Hawkeye to halt and turn to him. Then, he stood up and faced the dark sky. "We're only humans!"
I agreed with the blonde one-hundred-percent on that, and then I gazed down at the colonel and lieutenant as they made their way into the vehicle. If those two had been through what we went through today, I was sure that they would be feeling the same pain we were in right now.
"We couldn't even save a little girl..." Edward murmured, glancing down at the ground once more.
I sighed as I gazed off into space. Nothing could change now...
WAAAAAHHH! *blows nose in tissue* that episode gets me every time whether it the 2003 anime or "Brotherhood"... *sniffles*
Anyway, I thought I might show you guys Dani's soft side. I mean, of course she's not always cold as ice.
Other than that, I hope you guys enjoyed it~!
Rate and Review please!
