A New Senshi: Fallen Angel - Chapter 3.6 - I Don't Have Set Backs

Rothstein stood in his lab, around him were jars of liquids and piles of books. His attention was focused on a picture hung from the wall.
“I’m sorry Gretchen, I couldn’t save you but I think I finally know what went wrong all those years ago. I haven’t given up my dream to help people like you and I, I just hope you can forgive my methods some day,” he said looking into the never blinking eyes of his wife.
Rothstein went over and picked up the picture, putting his fingers to the cold glass and remembering how warm her cheeks once were. His thoughts were broken when the phone rang. Setting the picture down, Rothstein then picked up the receiver. “Hello?”
As the person on the other end of the line spoke, Rothstein’s expression turned angry. “Don’t give me excuses! I’ve told you all that I want her here and if that means securing her while she’s in the East then so be it! Do whatever you can to secure Nina Elric, I must have her if my experiments are to succeed!”
The person on the other end replied to Rothstein which only angered him more. “I’ve already given you instructions on how best to deal with Edward Elric now stop making excuses. I don’t want to hear from you again until you have what I’ve ordered you to get. Oh, and if you or your men lay another hand on my son NO ONE will get paid, are we understood?”
Again the person replied to Rothstein. “Good, now good-bye,” he said as he hung up the phone. How could it really be so hard to capture one girl? Granted, it was Nina and she really was a brilliant alchemist but she was also only a teen-age girl.
To calm himself, Rothstein walked over to a small bar and took out a glass filling it with ice and then whiskey. He slowly sipped it as he walked from one large container to the next checking their contents. In each there were the beginnings of alchemically grown human organs. This was the research that the government was paying him to do and he couldn’t let it go to the wayside for his own personal ambitions. They wanted to find a way to create human parts to use for transplant when people’s original organs and limbs had been damaged beyond repair. Rothstein understood the organs but he didn’t understand the limbs. There was automail for such things, though he supposed that having automail took a heavy toll on the body and the more natural artificial recreations wouldn’t have that heavy toll. He didn’t care though, they paid him for this and it enabled him to conduct his research into human genetic alchemy on the side.
Once he had Nina he could easily get the blood he needed to prove if his theory was correct or not. It hadn’t been the avian genetics that had made Gretchen ill, at least that wasn’t the only thing. He thought that maybe the alchemically strengthened fluids that he had injected into her system had played a role as well. She had not been gifted with alchemic ability from birth so when it had been injected into her body, she had rejected it once she had given birth to Adrienne. It was only after so many trials with other regular girls that he’d figured it out.
Once he’d checked on the organs in the canisters he walked over to a door and unlocked it. When he stepped inside the noises of pained animals fell upon his ears. He took a bag off the hook on the wall and started to fill the dishes that were just outside each of the cages. As he went from cage to cage the glint of small eyes stared up at him, the many children he had managed to create using various methods of his genetic alchemy. All of them were deformed versions of different animals, some more blended with their humans than others. Rothstein couldn’t help but to sigh. Not once since Adrienne had he been successful in creating another incubated in the womb chimera. This was still a problem that plagued him greatly. He hadn’t done anything differently with the other woman than he’d done for Gretchen and Adrienne. What was different about them?
When he got to the last cage, the small rabbit girl lay on the floor unmoving. Rothstein reached into the cage to check on her. When he realized she didn’t have a pulse and wasn’t breathing he sighed heavily. Yet another one had died. The next time he heard from Rogers he would have to tell him that he had another body to deal with. He just hoped that Rogers could handle this job without the troubles he’d had in just capturing Nina. The thought of Rogers right now only served to make him mad.
Finally Rothstein made his way into the last room. Inside were traditional cells, in each one was a girl, none older than twenty and each one very pregnant. He walked by each one making sure that they had been properly fed and that none appeared to be ill. For now they all looked to be doing well except for the broken and blank stares on their once pretty and lively faces. Rothstein was actually glad that none of them had managed to die but he knew it was a matter of time before they wouldn’t be viable anymore and would have to be taken away.
Having put everything in order, Rothstein left the back rooms making sure to lock the door once more. As he made his way back upstairs he saw Adrienne as he came in the door.
“Hello Adrienne,” he said with a smile.
“Hi Dad…” Adrienne replied clearly lost in thought and distracted.
“Is everything alright?” Rothstein said walking over to his son and putting his hand on his shoulder.
Adrienne sighed. He couldn’t tell his father what was on his mind. He was worried about Nina. If what she thought about those circles was true, Adrienne knew she could be in some real danger then especially if anyone found out. He didn’t like the idea of leaving her for the two weeks of break. He’d vowed to himself to protect her and with her being that far away he wouldn’t be able to do that unless he could find a way to go with her. “Yeah Dad, everything’s fine…”
“You and Nina didn’t have a falling out did you?”
Adrienne chuckled and shook his head. “No, nothing like that. Don’t worry, I’m fine, really. If it’s alright though I think I’ll take dinner in my room tonight, I need to do more studying before the exams start.”
Rothstein looked at his son but didn’t prod him any further. “Fine.”
Adrienne smiled warily and headed off to his room, he did have to study but he also needed to figure a few things out as well.

A New Senshi: Fallen Angel - Chapter 3.5 - Central Library, Third Branch

It took a few days but Nina was finally able to get out of the Academy long enough to get to the Central Library. Dr. Rothstein had been kind enough to let her start her assistant job after she came back from the semester break. That worked out well for her given that final exams and the studying that went with them were taking up a lot of her time. Plus, she was going home over the break; her father had insisted especially after what had happened. It was alright though since she wanted to talk to him and her mom about the weird change.
Nina hadn’t been able to get herself to transform again since that day either. She had no idea what had even triggered it. The only clue she had was the necklace which had been the only thing from that get up that remained when she changed back.
For now she figured she would concentrate on the transmutation circles, maybe they would give her some ideas on the rest.
When she climbed the stairs to the Third Branch of the Central Library, Adrienne was waiting for her outside the door.
“Sorry it took so long to get here,” she said as she walked up to him and gave him a hug. “I had to dodge the MPs to leave the school. I know they have to keep an eye on things but I swear, they could lighten up. I thought they weren’t supposed to be obvious anyway; at least that’s what Armstrong told me when we got here. I highly doubt anything else is going to happen this soon though.”
“It’s alright; I haven’t been here long anyway. Besides, be thankful that there are people looking out for you.”
Nina just shrugged. “I really don’t think I need it but I guess you’re right. Oh well, let’s get inside and get to work before they show up here and try to cause more of a headache.”
They pushed open the door and went inside. The place was huge and there were shelves of books everywhere. Nina and Adrienne walked up to the lady behind the desk to ask where they could find the books on alchemy.
“Well it depends on what exactly you’re looking for,” she said to them. “The basic books are on the shelves over there,” she continued, pointing to her left. “But if you want something more I’m afraid you have to be either a certified State Alchemist or have written permission from the Fuhrer’s office to access the room that contains those books.”
Nina just smiled and pulled the silver pocket watch out and showed it to the librarian. “Well it’s a good thing I’m certified isn’t it? I think this is enough to prove that. My name is Nina Elric, maybe you’ve heard of me?” Nina didn’t like using any sort of notoriety but she didn’t have a choice right now and she didn’t have time for questions.
The woman couldn’t believe what she was seeing. How did this girl have the silver watch? She had heard about a teen-age girl recently being certified so she wouldn’t say no. “Alright then, the books are through that door behind me. I’ll let you in but the young man has to stay here if he doesn’t have certification or permission.”
Nina and Adrienne nodded. They figured this might be the case. “I’ll see what I can find out here,” he said.
“Right and when I’m done in there we can compare notes,” Nina said as she went around the counter.
The librarian walked Nina over to the door and unlocked it to let her in. “If you need anything just let me know.”
“Thanks,” she said as she closed the door. “Now I think I need to start with the books on alchemic symbols.”
Nina walked through the shelves of books looking for anything that might have what she needed. She found two in the first row and sat down at the table and started reading through them. The first didn’t have anything useful but she hadn’t been reading the second one long before she came across a symbol that she recognized. Nina took a paper out of her notebook and compared it to what she saw in the book. Thankfully she had sat down after she’d gotten back to the dorm that night and sketched out what she remembered of the circles that had been on her hand. She knew it wasn’t complete and she wished she knew how to transform again so she could get the rest but at least she had something to go on.
“What?” she said to herself as she read about the symbol. “How can that be? Teleportation, that’s not possible.” Nina quickly wrote down all of the important things so she could look them over later then moved onto another book.
She had been in the room for just over an hour when she’d found as many of the symbols as she’d been able to remember and that didn’t include the alchehestry symbols. Nina hoped she might be able to get the meaning of those symbols from her aunt later. Grabbing her things she went back out into the main part of the library.
Adrienne was sitting at a table when she came back out. He looked up from the book he was reading and smiled at her. “Any luck?”
Nina sat down at the table and took out her notes. “You wouldn’t believe it,” she said positioning the pages of her notes so he could see them. “It seems the symbols and runes in those circles include everything from alchehestry to teleportation alchemy. I even found one that enables a shockwave of some kind too. I can’t help but wonder if I’ve come across some form of universal transmutation circle.”
Adrienne looked at her in disbelief. “That’s not possible.”
Nina sighed heavily. “I know but it’s the only thing that makes any sense given the wide variety in the symbols. I can’t know for sure though until I can look them all up. I have to find a way to transform like that again so I can get the symbols I don’t remember. That’s the only way I’ll be able to be sure.”
“You still haven’t been able to figure out how to do it again?”
Nina shook her head. “No but I have a feeling it has something to with this,” she said as she pulled the necklace out of her shirt. She’d kept it on since that day just in case. “It was the only part of the outfit that didn’t go away when I changed back. The semester break starts next week so I’m hoping I can ask my parents about it while I’m at home.”
“Do you really think they’ll know anything? I mean, this really is a strange one…”
“It wouldn’t hurt to ask them. I mean my dad was the youngest State Alchemist in history and he’d been seen a lot of stuff and from the stories my mom used to tell me about her younger days and how she has some talents too. I don’t know too much about them but then I never asked since I always thought she was just making it up to have a good bedtime story to tell me and Amy. Now though, well I think maybe her stories weren’t so crazy. Did you find anything?”
Adrienne closed the book he’d been reading and shook his head. “Not really, just the basic circles and symbols that’s about it,” he replied. His face turned a bit sad as well.
“What’s the matter?” Nina asked noticing the change in his expression.
“Nothing really, just thinking about not being able to see you during the semester break, that’s all.”
Nina smiled gently at him. “Aw, aren’t you just adorable? Don’t worry, it’s only for two weeks then I’ll be back here again.” She got up and went over so she was behind him. Gently she wrapped her arms around his shoulders had hugged him, resting her head against his. “Don’t worry; I’m going to miss you while I’m gone Adrienne.”
Adrienne put his hand on her arms and closed his eyes. “I’m going to miss you too…” he said softly feeling his chest get tight with heartache. She wasn’t gone yet but just the thought of her not being there was more than enough to bring it on.

A New Senshi: Fallen Angel - Chapter 3.4 - Interrogation

One door, no windows, one table, two chairs, this room was maddening. Kimball sat alone awaiting whatever the Military Police were going to do to him. He was just mad that that stupid girl had managed to get the better of him. What the hell was she anyway? He’d never seen an alchemic reaction like what she had done though he had to admit, he’d never really seen much alchemy period and it wasn’t like he really had any ability to do it himself. It still didn’t add up though. His employer never told him that Nina Elric would put up such a fight. He surely had to know about how gifted she was or else he wouldn’t have wanted her in the first place but why didn’t he say anything? He’d actually made it sound like this was going to be easy when he’d called about the job earlier in the night. Wait; maybe this had been some kind of test. Maybe his employer wanted to see how she’d handle herself if confronted but why not tell him about that up front?
Kimball was lost in his own thoughts when the door opened. The person who entered wasn’t an MP but a member of the actual military. The guy was tall, and had blond, slightly spiked hair and a cigarette hanging out of his mouth. He tossed a folder down on the table and sat in the chair opposite Kimball. He didn’t look very intimidating but Kimball thought it best not under estimate him. It was always the unimposing ones that caused the most problems.
Lieutenant Colonel Havoc took a pen out of his pocket and opened the folder in front of him. “Alright, now start from the beginning and I suggest you don’t leave anything out.” Kimball just looked at him remaining silent. Havoc sighed. “Come on, this will go a lot faster if you just cooperate.”
Kimball just scoffed. “And what makes you think I’m going to be a rat and just give you everything you want? I do have my reputation to consider, plus how do I know that once I’ve talked you won’t execute me? If I do decide to spill my guts to you, what’s in it for me?”
Havoc leaned back in the chair and took a drag from his cigarette. “Well for starters; these charges won’t get you executed, though if a certain someone were to get his hands on you for laying a hand on his daughter I couldn’t guarantee anything. But let’s not worry about that for now.”
Kimball looked away from Havoc. He knew who that certain someone was and if the rumors were true, Kimball knew he had a pretty hot temper. Probably better not to think about that one right now. “Fine, keep that hot headed pain in the ass away from me indefinitely and I’ll give you the information worth the price.”
“Shouldn’t be a problem. OK then, let’s start with something easy, how many other girls has your boss asked you to kidnap?”
Kimball looked back at him and grinned. “Nina was the fifth, well for me anyway.”
“For you? What do you mean?”
“Do you honestly think my boss only has one person working for him? Please, you’re dumber than you look if you think that.”
“OK, so how many of you are there?”
Kimball sat back in his chair, crossed his arms and shrugged. “No idea, it’s not like we have monthly meetings or anything. All I know is that I get a phone call with a where, a when, how much I’ll be paid and any special instructions. I don’t really talk to him much other than that.”
Havoc looked at him knowing there was more that he wasn’t telling him. “And you expect me to believe you don’t talk to him for anything other than that? Come on, now who’s the dumb one?”
“It’s the truth, whether you believe it or not, well that’s completely up to you.”
“So why do you skulk around outside Dr. Rothstein’s classroom at the Academy in the evenings?”
“I worked maintenance at the Academy, I had duties you know. My section assignment was that area of that building nothing else.”
“You weren’t scoping out the Doctor’s students?”
Kimball sighed. “I told you, I didn’t pick them, I just picked up the ones I was asked to.”
“And you weren’t getting intel on the people in Rothstein’s classes for your boss?”
“No. Look, my boss knows who he wants and who he doesn’t want. It’s just a coincidence that they all come from Rothstein’s classes.”
Havoc grinned at him and leaned over the table. “I didn’t tell you that we suspected all of the missing girls came from Rothstein’s classes but thanks for confirming that for me.”
Kimball scowled. This military monkey had tricked him into giving up more information than he wanted to, even if it was rather minor.
“So what else can you tell me? Why did your boss want Nina?”
Kimball got tight lipped again. “No way, you already got the price of admission out of me…”
Havoc shook his head. “Too bad. You know I hear that a certain someone is due for a visit to Central and he is a buddy of mine so maybe I’ll…”
“No! Come on man! That’s not fair!”
“Then keep talking,” Havoc said now glaring a bit at Kimball.
“Fine, fine have it your way. Honestly? Who WOULDN’T want Nina? Shit, look at who her family is if nothing else. Plus you have the added bonus of her being the brightest and most gifted person in all of Amestris at the moment. If it were up to me to pick a mark, I’d pick her too. The ransom alone you could get for her would be sky high.”
“But is that the actual reason?”
Kimball shrugged. “I don’t know, I don’t ask because frankly I don’t care. My boss has a thing for intelligent, teen-age girls, that’s all I know. But I do know this is the first time I’ve been asked to go after one that had alchemic talent. I can’t speak for any of the other girls the boss may have asked others to get though.”
Havoc didn’t say anything as he flipped through a couple of the pages in his folder. He quickly scanned over the profiles of each girl that had been abducted and it would seem that he was right; Nina was the first with known talent in alchemy. “Talk about starting big,” he thought to himself. It didn’t explain the child chimeras that were usually found awhile after at the abduction sights though. Was that just a coincidence?
“And how many other ‘employees’ do you think he has? I know you said you didn’t exactly know but give me a guess.”
Kimball thought about it for a few minutes then sighed. “I don’t know if I can even do that but if I have to give it a guess I’d say there’s at least two more besides me.”
Havoc did the math and to have three people abducting girls on and off made sense given the number of girls taken, especially over the last year or two. It didn’t give him any more clues as to who the mastermind was but at least he had more to go on.
“So, had you been successful, where do you take the girls once you have them?”
“It depends.”
“On what?”
“Well usually where I’m told to pick up the girl determines where I drop her off. It always changes and it’s rare that I have to use the same place twice.”
“So where were you supposed to bring Nina?”
Kimball shook his head and laughed. “Do you think you can honestly figure anything out from that? There’s not usually anyone there when I make the drop off and I’m pretty sure that the person who was going to make the pickup already knows I wasn’t successful so there’s no way he’s going to show now.”
“Humor me then,” Havoc said sounding clearly less than amused.
Kimball just shrugged. “Fine, I was supposed to drop Nina at an abandoned shed just outside of Central near the railroad tracks that lead out to the East.”
Havoc thought about this for a bit. He actually thought he knew exactly where this place was but he wanted to make sure. He pushed a piece of paper and a pen to Kimball and made him draw a map. He resisted a bit but Havoc just reminded him one more time what would happen if he didn’t cooperate and Kimball did just as he was told.
“Alright, sit tight for now. One of the MPs will be in eventually to bring you to a holding cell,” he said as he gathered up the papers into the folder and left the room with it.
Fuhrer Mustang was waiting outside when Havoc came out. “Did he give you anything useful?”
Havoc shrugged. “Useful? Maybe, maybe not but he at least confirmed that whoever the mastermind behind this is, he’s definitely taking his targets from Dr. Rothstein’s classes. He also mentioned that he was supposed to drop off Nina in an old shed out at the edge of the city. Kimball was kind enough to draw me a map out there but I was pretty sure I already knew where he was talking about anyway. I was planning to take a few men and go out there to check it out; hopefully there’ll be something there that will give us a few more clues. It’s a long shot but I think it’s worth it.”
“Did he mention anything about the chimeras?”
Havoc sighed and shook his head. “No but then he seems to only be involved in the snatch and grab part of the operation. Once he makes a drop off that’s it, he starts the process over.”
Mustang thought about the newest information that Havoc had given him. “Right now I think you should check out that shed but I also think Rothstein needs to be watched.”
“Sir? You don’t think the Doctor is involved do you?”
“I don’t know but I can’t ignore that it’s his students being taken. IF nothing else we might get other clues from watching him. I’m also putting a protection detail on Nina Elric because I’m sure this won’t be the only attempt made on her. I also want Amy under watch too just in case. She’s not one of Rothstein’s students but because of who she is, she may be targeted as well.”
“You know the girls aren’t going to take that well.”
Mustang chuckled. “That’s why I’ve planned for the detail to be less than obvious but you know that if I did nothing, Fullmetal would never let me hear the end of it.”
“Has he been told about what happened?”
Mustang sighed. “Yeah, but I didn’t want to tell him just because you know how insufferable he can be, especially when it comes to his kids. That’s part of the reason I have no choice but to have the protection detail on them. It’s not only for their safety but also for my sanity. If I hadn’t, he would have come charging out here and gotten in my hair. I swear, I miss the days when he actually avoided my office at all cost. Besides, I need him out in the East right now anyway; he’s my eyes and ears in the Eastern branch, even if he doesn’t exactly know it.”
“You’re plotting something aren’t you sir?”
“Of course Havoc, when am I not?” Mustang asked with a grin.
Havoc could only laugh as they walked down the hall. He had an investigation to get back to.

A New Senshi: Fallen Angel - Chapter 3.3 - What Now?

Nina and Adrienne walked arm in arm afterwards. There were a few things going through Adrienne’s mind now. He actually felt guilty knowing that she loved him and yet he was keeping a very big secret from her. He wanted to tell her, needed to tell her, but then if his father found out that he had he would surely make it so that he wouldn’t be able to see Nina again. That was the last thing he wanted but that still brought him back to the fact that he was keeping secrets from her.
Adrienne had finally made up his mind to actually tell her but he wouldn’t get the chance. A man in a dark cloak stepped out of an alleyway in front of them, blocking their path. “I’m sorry but you’re going to have to come with me young lady,” he said as he stepped towards them.
When he made a move to grab Nina she pulled away from Adrienne and side stepped away from the man. “Hey!” she yelled. “Who the heck are you? What do you want with me?” Nina took a stance ready to fight if need be.
Without thinking, Adrienne lunged forward and grabbed the cloaked man trying to keep a hold of him. The cloaked man threw him off easily though, sending him flying backwards into the stone building behind him. When he hit, he practically crumpled to the ground in a heap, out cold.
“Stupid boy,” the man muttered as he turned his attention back to Nina. “Now, please don’t make this any more difficult than it has to be. I have instructions to bring you back unharmed and if I don’t follow that I don’t get paid.”
He had really begun to piss her off and her face clearly showed it. “And what the hell makes you think I’m going to just go with you especially after you hurt Adrienne? You’re out of your god damned mind if you think I’m going to do ANYTHING you ask!” Nina rushed forward, the look of anger in her eyes much like the one her father had anytime someone made him this angry and especially when someone close to him had been hurt or threatened. The look in her crimson gold eyes was both cold and piercing but fiery and passionate at the same time. She came at him fisted clenched and ready to beat this guy into a bloody pulp for what he’d done to Adrienne.
The cloaked man defended her attack and tried to grab a hold of her again. Nina pulled free and kneed him square and clean in the midsection causing him to double over. Seeing the opening, Nina went to kick him in the side but as she did he recovered and grabbed her leg using it to throw her to the ground. The fall was enough to knock the wind out of her and keep her from moving for a moment. The cloaked man took his opportunity and sat on top of her holding her hands down against the sidewalk.
“Look, would you quit struggling and fighting and just come quietly? I swear, if I’d known you were going to fight this much and give me so much trouble I wouldn’t have taken this job.”
Nina looked up at him still struggling. “Job? Who do you work for?”
“You’re in no position to be asking questions young lady, besides, give it up and come with me and you’ll find out…”
“No way,” she said angrily before spitting in his face. It surprised him enough that he loosened his grip on her giving her an opportunity to finally break free and throw him off. Nina quickly got to her feet and made to attack him again but before she could the cloaked man had wiped his face and lunged forward knocking her back to the ground. He was angry now and it seemed like he no longer cared if he hurt her or not as he increased his hold on her. She could barely see them in the shadow of his hood but from what she could see his eyes also looked as angry as his grip felt.
Nina struggled trying to get free. She knew that spitting at him wouldn’t work again and he was holding her in such a way as to not allow her the chance to knee him in the groin. What was she going to do? Nina started to panic. She clenched her eyes shut and prepared for the worst. It was almost as if she had given up. Just then, a bright light shown from her forehead and Nina felt a strange power flowing through her body. It was enough to blind the cloaked man and it freaked him out. He quickly got off of her and scooted as far back from her as he could before he was up against a wall.
Nina stood up as her body became covered in a brilliant light. She held her hands out palm side down and looked down at them as a transmutation circle appeared on both of them. What was happening to her? Her clothes changed to a black body suit with a crimson red bow on her chest. Her shoes changed to knee high, crimson boots. Around her neck appeared a silver chained necklace with a charm on it that appeared to be a small lantern. On her forehead a silver tiara with a crimson red jewel formed. Even the silver pocket watch in her pocket became a part of the outfit forming a chain belt that the watch hung from. The only thing of her original clothing that remained was her jacket, the one that her mother had given her though now the symbol of Flamel on the back was the same crimson red as her bow instead of the white that it had been.
Once the transformation was complete Nina stood there not sure what to do now. The cloaked man sat there clearly unnerved by what he’d just seen. “What the hell are you?” he said sounding scared. “What did you do?”
The light had been enough to make Adrienne wake up. He saw Nina standing there looking confused and dressed far differently than she had been before. The man in the cloak was cowering about an arm’s length away from him. Nina walked over to the cloaked man and clapped her hands together figuring if the circles were there she could activate them and putting her hands together just seemed the natural way to do it. When she did, the transmutation circles on her hands flashed a soft blue making her thankful to have been right. Putting her hands on the wall on either side of the cloaked man she used the stone to form a binding to hold him there until they could get the Military Police.
Neither of them would have to go looking for them though. A group of MPs came running up the street having been alerted by the commotion and the bright flash of light.
“What’s going on here?” one of them asked as they stopped in front of Nina, their guns drawn. “Miss Elric, are you alright?” he continued once he realized it was her standing there.
Nina let out a long sigh and nodded. “Yeah I’m fine. This idiot just tried to kidnap me and he attacked Adrienne and I.”
Finally able to stand, Adrienne got up and went over to Nina. The MPs only now noticed that he was there. “Are you Adrienne Rothstein?” one of them asked. Adrienne nodded. “Are you alright?”
“Yeah, I’ll be fine, just a bump on the head. It’s nothing a good night’s sleep won’t fix.”
The MP nodded and with that confirmed he went over to the cloaked man and removed his hood. Seeing the man’s face, Adrienne looked surprised.
“I recognize you, you’re one of the maintenance people from the Academy…” he said as the MPs started to secure their attacker.
Nina looked at him strangely. “What?”
“Yeah I’ve seen him around a few times when I was waiting for my father to finish up after his classes. I think his name is Kimball.”
Hearing him speak about the man, an MP came up to talk to them wanting to know everything they knew about the man. Nina had nothing to offer outside of the few bits he had mentioned during their fight. Adrienne on the other hand had far more to tell them. He said that he had never seen him during the day when cases were in session and that the only times he had run into him where when he was waiting outside of his father’s classroom. Adrienne expressed a concern that maybe his father might be in danger too. The MPs took note of everything and then asked Nina to release the man from the stone.
Before they took him away they asked if they wanted an escort the rest of the way back to the Academy. Nina thanked them for their concern but turned them down. When they tried to protest she pointed out how well they had been able to handle themselves until they had arrived. That had been enough to keep them from protesting more. Once they were gone, Nina and Adrienne walked to the fountain they had visited the first night they had gone out.
Nina sat at the edge of the fountain and looked down at her hands now that she had a chance to finally process what had happened. Adrienne sat down beside her.
“So what happened?” he asked looking over at her.
Nina kept her gaze on her hands trying to figure out exactly what the transmutation circles on her hands meant, what they were really supposed to be used for. She recognized a few things, there was definitely alchehestry symbols mixed into it but there were many more elements and runes in the circle that she didn’t know. If she had to venture a guess it was pretty ancient stuff since she had pretty much read every book on modern alchemy that was available to her. She couldn’t even begin to fathom the rest of what happened, her clothes, the necklace, none of it. What HAD happened?
“I don’t know, I just know that he had me pinned down and I couldn’t move, I started to panic and then there was this light and well there I was just as you see me now. I don’t understand why or where it came from. It just felt like something inside of me woke up when I felt the desperation thinking I might actually not be able to get out of the situation.” Nina sighed heavily. “I actually wish Mom or Dad was here, that might be able to explain it to me.”
Adrienne put his hand on her shoulder. “Well whatever it is or wherever it came from, it saved your life and mine I’d figure.”
Nina nodded. “Yeah, if it hadn’t ‘woken up’ when it did I’m sure he would have in the very least hurt me. I don’t know as he would have killed me though just because he said someone else wanted me. I need to know who that is too but I suppose one problem at a time and right now I think I need to figure this whole thing out so I’ll know how to use it if I need it. I think tomorrow after class I’ll head over to the Central Library and see if they have anything that will help me.”
“Do you want me to come with you?” Adrienne asked.
“It’s up to you, I don’t know if they’ll let you into the sections I need though considering…” she said as she took the watch in her hand. “This is what’s going to get me into the sections I think I’m going to need.”
“That’s alright, I don’t mind if I have to hang around. Besides I… well…” Adrienne blushed a bit.
Nina smiled at him. “You’re worried about me aren’t you?”
He just nodded. She was exactly right, he didn’t want her anywhere alone if he could help it but he also wanted to be the one to protect her especially considering he hadn’t been able to earlier. He had to make that right. He didn’t like feeling so useless especially when he knew there was more he could have done but because of his secret he didn’t.
Nina put her hand to her chest to pretend to be a damsel in distress and tease him a little but when she did she was wrapped in the light again. Adrienne had to avert his eyes so as not to be blinded. When the light was gone, Nina was sitting there in her original outfit again. “Well that was weird… I was wondering how to get back to normal though. Oh well, I suppose we should probably keep my transforming our secret alright Adrienne?”
He nodded then he remembered that before this had happened he had intended to tell her his own secret. He actually felt better about telling her now that he held a secret of hers. “Um Nina, there’s one more thing I need to tell you before I take you home…”
Nina looked at him oddly. What else could there be?
“I’ll keep your secret if you promise to keep mine alright?” he said as he got up from the fountain’s edge and took a few steps back. He closed his eyes and from his back grew two snow white wings, the feathers shining in the moonlight. Nina’s jaw nearly dropped, she couldn’t believe what she was seeing. “I’m not normal, I’m a chimera, half bird, half man…” he said quietly standing there.
Getting up from the fountain’s edge, Nina walked over to him looking him over. Adrienne spread his wings out and when he did Nina ran her hand over one of them. “They’re so soft,” she said softly, still looking at them in amazement. The idea that he was a chimera should have scared her but it didn’t. But how is it possible that he could be a chimera? Creating them was illegal. “How did you… Who made you this way?”
Adrienne sighed. “Who do you think?”
Nina gasped realizing. “Your fath… I mean Dr. Rothstein did this?”
Adrienne nodded. “That’s right though he is still my father. I was the result of his early experiments into genetic and medicinal alchemy. He was looking for a way to help women who couldn’t have children because there were unavoidable genetic defects in the parents. He thought that maybe if he strengthened the genetic material with animal genes that he could help them have children. My Mom was actually the whole reason he started doing it. My mother was a very fragile woman and because of it her and my father had a lot of trouble having children. Every time my mother got pregnant she would lose the baby shortly after. Finally he figured it out and here I am but something went wrong not long after I was born and my mother got very sick. He thought it had something to do with the fact that she’d had the foreign genetic material in her system and as you know she died from the sickness. He never did figure out exactly why; well not as far as I know anyway.”
Nina looked at him standing there. Once again she found herself thinking he looked like an angel but this time he really was. He had the wings and all. She ran her hand over the other wing and it made Adrienne laugh a little.
“Hey, come on, that tickles,” he said pulling the wing away a bit. He then looked down at the ground, his expression turning sad. “I know I’m a freak and really shouldn’t exist so I won’t blame you if you want to leave now…”
Nina came back around so she could face him. Lifting his chin she gently made him look at her. “I admit this is a little strange but it doesn’t change who you are Adrienne. You’re still the same person you were an hour ago when I told you that I loved you so what makes you think that just because you told me you have wings that anything’s different?” she asked with a smile. “Besides, do you know how many girls wish their boyfriends were angels?”
Adrienne just laughed. “Well I’m not a real angel…”
Nina put her hand to his cheek gently, looking into his crystal blue eyes. “To me you are,” she said softly before tenderly giving him a kiss.

A New Senshi: Fallen Angel - Chapter 3.2 - How Much Can One Person Take In One Night?

The three of them enjoyed a wonderful meal talking about trivial day to day things after they had settled matters concerning Nina being Dr. Rothstein’s assistant. Once they had finished, they adjourned to a lavish sitting room. Rothstein sat in a high backed and cushioned chair and Nina and Adrienne sat kitty corner to him on a couch.
“So, how have things been going between the two of you?” Rothstein asked with a cleaver grin on his face.
Nina and Adrienne both blushed. It was strange to be asked this question. How could they possibly answer it? Nina lowered her head a bit kneading her hands in her lap, clearly nervous. Adrienne looked over at her and couldn’t help but to chuckle seeing her look that way. She shot him a look that asked what he thought he was laughing at.
Rothstein chuckled. “I didn’t mean to put you on the spot; I just wanted to make sure things were going well. Though I suppose from looking at you two I shouldn’t have to even ask.”
Adrienne reached over and put his arm around Nina pulling her over closer to him. “I already told you Dad, things are awesome,” he said with a big smile.
Nina closed her eyes and smiled as she rested against him. “Yeah, he really is something else, something special. Adrienne really does mean a lot to me,” she said softly.
Adrienne looked down at her and brushed a stray hair off of her forehead. He could see she was getting tired. “Dad, it’s getting late. Do you mind if I take Nina home?”
Rothstein smiled softly and nodded. He actually felt a twinge of guilt seeing them together and hearing Nina talk about Adrienne as she had. To see his son looking so happy, it was all he’d ever wanted for him deep down. He had to remind himself though that Nina was an important part of his plans despite the fact that his son cared about her so much. If all went well though both he and Adrienne would get what they wanted from her.
“I’ll have Jeffery bring the car around to the front. Wait here until I get back alright?” he said as he got up to leave the room.
Adrienne nodded. “Thanks Dad.”
A little while later he returned with Nina’s jacket and handed it to her before walking with Nina and Adrienne to the car. When they got there, Rothstein opened the door for Nina while Adrienne went around to the other side of the car. “Thank you for joining us tonight Nina and I’ll see you tomorrow morning in class. Take care.”
“Thank you for having me Dr. Rothstein,” she said with a smile as he closed the door to the car and stepped back.
With Adrienne and Nina safely inside, the car pulled away heading back for Central City. “Jeffery, can you drop us off just outside of the city?” Adrienne asked leaning forward and putting his hand on the back of the driver’s seat to keep him steady.
“Excuse me Master Adrienne? Are you sure?” Jeffery asked as he looked into the rear view mirror to see him.
“Yes Jeffery, I want to walk Nina back to the dorms. Besides I don’t think it would look very good if we dropped her off and someone saw it. Most everyone knows that she and I are seeing each other but well…”
Jeffery chuckled. “I understand Young Master; I’ll stop just within the city and wait for you to come back.”
“Thanks Jeffery, I appreciate,” he said as he sat back in his seat again. He then looked over at Nina. “That’s OK with you right? I just want a little time alone before I have to bring you home.”
Nina just chuckled. “I don’t mind at all.”
Once they got into the city Jeffery did as Adrienne had asked and stopped letting them out. He then parked in an alley out of the way to wait for Adrienne to come back. They started walking back towards the school Adrienne taking Nina’s hand in his as they walked.
“I’m sorry I lied to you about how close to the school I lived. Jeffery actually does that for me most days so I don’t stand out so much,” he explained looking a little embarrassed.
Nina just laughed. “Don’t worry about it, I understand. I used to hate it when I was little and my Dad would walk Amy and me to school. It was always so awkward considering how well known he is, I can imagine it’s a lot the same for you.”
Adrienne laughed. “Yeah…” he said softly stopping. Suddenly he looked a really nervous.
Nina stopped when he did and looked over at him. “Are you OK?” she asked letting go of his hand and taking a step around him so she could face him. “You don’t look well.”
Adrienne lowered his head and took a deep breath. He’d actually been waiting for the right time to say what was on his mind and this was the first time they’d really been alone so he could. He felt like he had a pit in his stomach and that he could actually vomit he was that nervous. “Um Nina?”
She bent forward a bit trying to get a look at his face. “Come on Adrienne, this isn’t funny. What’s wrong?”
Quickly he lifted his head and took in a deep breath. He then put his hands on her shoulders and looked her directly in her crimson gold eyes. “Nina, there’s something I need to say to you.” Adrienne’s own eyes looked focused and intent, the moon light making the blue of those eyes look almost ocean like and the feeling Nina got when looking into them was just as vast. Nina’s breath caught in her chest. “Nina… I… well I…” the expression on his face softened and he put his hand gently on her cheek and smiled. He just needed to spit it out and he knew it. “Nina, I love you.”
Her eyes went wide and she was speechless. She wanted to say something, anything, but no words would come out of her mouth.
“I know you’ve already been pretty over loaded tonight and I understand if you can’t answer me now but I just had to get that out, I couldn’t hold it inside anymore. Please forgive me if it’s too much or too soon or…”
Nina stood there looking at him, her lips quivering and her eyes welling up with tears. The only thing she could do was throw her arms around him and bury her face in his chest crying. Almost instinctively, Adrienne put his arms around her and held her close. It actually broke his heart seeing her crying like this especially since he had no idea why she was doing it. He thought it had been his fault, that he had said something wrong.
“Nina, please, please stop crying. I’m sorry; I didn’t mean to make you sad…”
She shook her head as she finally unburied her face and looked at him. “You silly idiot, I’m not sad, I’m happy,” she said laughing a bit through the last of her tears.
“Wait, you’re crying because you’re happy?” he asked sounding genuinely confused. “Why would you do that?”
Nina smiled at him. “You can’t help crying Adrienne, it just happens when you feel really strongly. It doesn’t matter if you’re really sad or if you’re really happy and hearing you say that to me made me really happy especially because well…” Nina took a deep breath. “Well, it made me really happy because I love you too…”
Adrienne’s eyes lit up with her words. “Really? You’re not just picking on me again are you?”
“No, no jokes this time, I mean it,” she replied with a laugh.
He smiled at her and ran his fingers through her hair as she had left it down tonight. When he got to the nape of her neck he drew her in towards him, his other arm still around her. Closing his eyes he leaned forward and gently kissed her lips. Nina didn’t fight it, she closed her eyes and returned that soft kiss her heart racing in her chest. She couldn’t understand how any one person could be this blessed but she wasn’t going to question it for fear that if she did she would wake up to find all of it was nothing more than a dream.

A New Senshi: Fallen Angel - Chapter 3.1 - Opportunities At The Rothstein Estate

The days turned to weeks and then to months. Nina stood out all the more doing nearly perfectly in all of her classes. She and Adrienne had even gotten closer spending much of their off time either studying together or just hanging out. Nina had even managed to take care of her problem with Austin Havoc. It appeared that he had taken her advice and had started talking to Julia quite often, but then nearly every time he had seen her lately she was with Adrienne so that couldn’t have hurt.
Nina had just finishing up with her Advanced Alchemic Principles class and was exiting the room when Dr. Rothstein came up to her. “Hello Nina,” he said with a smile. “Do you have a moment?”
Adjusting her bag so it wouldn’t fall off her shoulder she smiled and nodded. “Sure Dr. Rothstein, what’s up?”
“I was wondering if you had any plans for the evening?”
She looked at him confused. “Just last minute studying for the test in your Medicinal Alchemy class tomorrow, that’s all. Why?”
Rothstein grinned. “Well I was hoping you could come to my home this evening and have dinner with Adrienne and I. I’d like to discuss some things with you if you don’t mind.”
Suddenly Nina felt really nervous. He was asking her to come to his house to talk which was odd. Usually when he wanted to discuss things with her he just asked her to come to his office. “I don’t mind sir but why to your house? Why can’t we talk in your office like we usually do?”
Rothstein chuckled. “Normally I would but I thought it might be nice to have you at the house for dinner. Adrienne hasn’t had you over to the house once since you two started seeing each other and I thought it was time; I just think he’s too afraid to ask you. It just works out that there’s something I’d like to talk to you about as well. I also don’t know as talking about it here would be the best idea, prying eyes and over eager listening ears and the like, I’m sure you understand.”
Nina thought about it for a moment. “Alright, I think I do understand. What time should I be there?”
Rothstein smiled. “Excellent, how about six o’clock? I’ll send someone to get you.”
“Alright, then I’ll see you this evening Dr. Rothstein,” Nina said bowing her head a bit. “But if you’ll excuse me sir, I have to get to my next class,” she continued and then walked away.
Rothstein grinned to himself once her back was turned. The ball was rolling and this pleased him greatly.
That night Nina made her way outside after she had spent the last hour trying to figure out what to wear. She wasn’t sure what sort of dinner this was going to be so she thought she should at least dress up a little. It was starting to get a bit chilly outside so she decided to wear a jacket. She’d decided on the one her mother had given her, the one that had once been hers.
Once she was on the steps she looked around, Dr. Rothstein had said that he would send someone to get her but he hadn’t said who or what to look for. There was a car parked out front and when the driver inside saw Nina standing there looking he opened the door and got out.
“Miss Nina Elric?” he said as he approached her. “I’ve come to fetch you at Dr. Rothstein’s request,” he continued when she nodded her answer to his inquiry. “Please come with me.”
Nina followed the driver to the car and got in once he’d opened the door for her. She thought it was a little strange that he’d send a car for her since Adrienne had said he didn’t live far from the school but then who was she to question it.
The car took her just outside of Central City. It had actually taken a little longer than Nina had expected. As they approached the mansion Nina looked around in amazement, she had never seen anything like this.
When they stopped in front of the front door, the driver got out and then opened the door for Nina. “Here we are Miss Elric,” he said with a professional looking smile.
“Thank you,” she replied as she got out. Slowly she climbed the stairs to the door. Before she could even think of knocking the door opened and a young maid bowed her head.
“Good evening Miss Elric, we’ve been expecting you. Please, come in.”
Nina took a deep breath trying to calm her nerves. This was far grander than anything she was used to and she wasn’t sure exactly how to handle this. She entered and stood in the grand entryway just looking around. Everything was so clean and polished and the woodwork was exceptional. She snapped out of her amazement when the maid closed the door. It was made from a heavy wood and made a heavy thud as it closed and latched.
The maid then walked over to Nina and stood very straight and proper but her gaze did not meet Nina’s. “Please Miss Elric, if you would follow me to the dining room. Master Rothstein and young master Adrienne are already there waiting for you. I’ll take your coat as well.”
Nina nodded and took her jacket off and handed it to the maid before followed after the young woman staying close so she didn’t risk getting lost. Arriving at the dining room, the young maid pushed open the door and then stood out of the way so Nina could enter. “Master Rothstein, Miss Elric has arrived.”
Nina hung back still feeling very nervous. The maid looked at her like she was doing something odd wondering why she wasn’t entering the room.
“Please Nina, don’t be shy,” Dr. Rothstein said with a laugh as he got up from the table.
Adrienne got up as well and went over to the door and took her hand in both of his smiling. “Don’t be nervous Nina, come on,” he said as he lightly coaxed her to take a step.
That was all she’d needed and she easily followed him into the room. “Good evening sir,” she said bowing her head a bit. “Thank you for having me.”
Rothstein just chuckled. “You don’t need to be so formal Nina. Now please have a seat,” he said using his hand to indicate that she should sit opposite Adrienne. He then sat back down himself.
Adrienne went behind the chair and pulled it out for her. He was being a perfect gentleman and Nina couldn’t help but think it was cute. She smiled and walked over to the chair sitting down. Once she was properly seated, Adrienne went back over to his chair and sat down as well.
Nina sat in her chair with her hands clasped in her lap still looking a bit nervous. Adrienne just looked over at her and smiled. When she saw him smile that sweetly it made Nina blush. He’d looked at her like that before but never in front of his father.
Rothstein decided to be the one to break the nervous silence. “Thank you for coming Nina, if you don’t mind, I’d like to get the reason I asked you here tonight out of the way. Business before pleasure I guess you could say.”
“Of course sir,” she said rather shyly.
“I wanted to discuss with you a unique opportunity. I was wondering if you would be interested in becoming one of my personal research assistants.”
Nina’s jaw nearly dropped. “Excuse me?” She couldn’t believe what he had just asked her. “I don’t mean to be rude or sound ungrateful but why would you want me for something like that? I mean, I’m only a first year student and there have to be others that are more qualified. Besides, don’t you not usually take on students as your assistants anyway?”
Rothstein chuckled. “Normally that is very true, but I don’t usually have students even half as intelligent and gifted as you are and with your certification as a State Alchemist, I think that makes you more than qualified. But now you see why I didn’t wish to discuss this at the Academy. There are many that would be very upset if they knew I was doing this and I know you haven’t exactly had an easy time of things considering your exceptional abilities. Plus with the other privileges you’ve been granted because of it, such as that certification, I didn’t want to add to the rumor mills and make things more difficult for you.”
“It really hasn’t been that bad honestly but thank you for your concern, I really do appreciate it,” she said trying not to sound like it was a big deal. He didn’t need to know that most of her peers had pretty much begun to ignore her. The only exceptions were her sister Amy, the Moron Squad, her roommate Julia and of course Adrienne.
Rothstein nodded though he didn’t point out that he knew she was lying. It wasn’t his business really. “So what do you say to my offer?”
Nina took a deep breath and closed her eyes for a moment. Her mind was racing with hundreds of thoughts at once. She still couldn’t believe he wanted her as his assistant. There was a part of her that was overjoyed. She had dreamt of one day maybe having an opportunity like this, she wouldn’t deny that to anyone, but she was also incredibly scared as well. What if she couldn’t live up to his expectations? What would she do then? For the first time since she was young, Nina was actually questioning herself. The last couple of months so much had happened. First there was the State Alchemist Certification from Fuhrer Mustang and now this too? Nina knew she was smart and that she had worked so hard forsaking many of the ordinary things people her age normally do but did she really deserve all of this?
Adrienne could see that she seemed to be really struggling with this. “Please accept it Nina,” he said gently. “If you do you’ll get to be here and I can…” Adrienne stopped himself realizing that what he was about to say was selfish. The last thing he wanted was to add to her burden and he thought telling her that they’d be able to spend more time together would do that.
Hearing Adrienne’s voice made Nina open her eyes and look at him. His crystal blue eyes looked so calm, hopeful, and encouraging. It made her smile and relax a bit. She then looked over at Dr. Rothstein, the look in her eyes solidified and her decision made. “You know sir; I’d be honored to be your assistant. Thank you for this opportunity.” She had decided that she had to take this chance and it didn’t matter if anyone thought ill of her for it. Nina knew that the people important to her would never turn their backs on her and that they would support her and encourage her as they always had.
“Wonderful!” he exclaimed as he clapped his hands together. “I’ll be expecting you here three nights a week once your classes are completed for the day. It doesn’t matter what three nights unless I specifically ask that you be here as I don’t want to interfere with your studies. Of course I will also expect you to show the same level of dedication in my lab as you have shown in my classes as well. Plus, I will also be giving you additional credit for the time you spend here working in the lab. Does that sound fair?”
“Yes sir and don’t worry, I’ll give it everything I have,” she said. She then looked back over at Adrienne. He had a smile on his face that stretched from one ear to the other.
“Excellent, now let’s eat.” Rothstein motioned to a servant that had been waiting in the corner of the room. The man nodded and disappeared from the room.
When the man returned he had a group of other servants with him, each carrying trays. As they set them down, the servants removed the covers revealing carefully and skillfully crafted foods. Everything looked so delicious and exquisite.
“You didn’t have to go to all of this trouble for me,” Nina said looking a bit flustered.
Rothstein shook his head. “Nonsense! We have much to celebrate tonight. My son has a wonderful young woman that cares for him deeply and I have an exceptional new research assistant.”
Hearing Rothstein go on about her like that made Nina blush a deep red. “Thank you for everything Dr. Rothstein. You and Adrienne both are so kind to me,” she said as a single tear ran down her cheek.

A New Senshi: Fallen Angel - Chapter 2.5 - Classes Begin But IsThe Only Thing?

Things had been wild and crazy for Nina since the orientation presentation. Everyone wanted to look at the pocket watch that she had been given. The looks she got were mixed between awe and jealousy. Nina didn’t care though, they just couldn’t handle the fact that she had worked so hard for this and been rewarded. She wasn’t going to let their petty insecurities bother her. She had a responsibility even more so now to succeed and she wasn’t going to let anyone take that from her or stop her from getting there.
Her first class was Dr. Rothstein’s basics of medicinal alchemy class. She couldn’t wait. When she arrived there wasn’t anyone there yet and Rothstein had yet to arrive. Nina sighed and leaned back against the wall outside the door, her books clutched close to her chest. A few moments later she saw Adrienne coming down the hall and it looked like he was running.
“What the…?” she said as he raced past her. Shortly behind him she saw a group of about six girls chasing after him.
Nina just sighed. First day of classes and it would seem that he already had a fan club. She should have known better. When he’d realized it was Nina standing there, Adrienne quickly turned running through the girls back to her.
“Nina!” he said as nearly crashed into her. “You gotta save me… they’re nuts!”
Seeing Adrienne practically clinging to Nina the group of girls made a collectively annoyed face. Nina just stared them all down. “Leave him alone,” she said sounding rather displeased.
“Why should we?” one of the girls said copping an attitude. “Just because you’re little miss perfect around here doesn’t mean you can order people around.”
Nina handed her books to Adrienne and stepped up to the girl. Nina had a good four inches of height on her so when she stepped up she had to look down a little. “Where should I start? First of all it’s clear he’s not interested and second he already has a girlfriend anyway.”
The girl looked at her a bit confused. “Excuse me, he has a girlfriend? How would you know that?”
Adrienne smiled and walked up behind Nina and put his arm around her. He had caught her drift and was playing it up. He didn’t exactly realize she meant it.
Nina just grinned at the girl. “How do I know? Simple, I’m his girlfriend. Now, unless you want more trouble than you can handle I’d suggest you and the rest of your little fan club leave Adrienne alone.”
The group gasped in shock then looked angry. “It figures…”
Nina thought she would have a little more fun with this. “Oh are you jealous? I can’t help it if I have the complete package, brains, talent, good looks, and you don’t. Besides, what makes you think someone like Adrienne would go for ordinary girls like the group of you?” It really was a bit out of character for her to be this arrogant and condescending, that was more Amy’s specialty than hers. It was worth it though if it made the mini horde of mindless little girls leave Adrienne alone. Thankfully they could take a hint and walked off grumbling to themselves.
Nina let out a long breath. She had been so nervous standing up to them like that. Adrienne hugged her since he still had his arm around her. “Thanks Nina. I swear, I don’t know what I would have done if you hadn’t been here. That was a pretty impressive story making them think I was your boyfriend.”
Nina turned to look at him and took her books back and held them close to her chest. Her cheeks flushed a bright red. “Well, I didn’t exactly… I mean it wasn’t really a story was it?”
Adrienne looked at her innocently confused. “It wasn’t? You mean you meant it?” When he asked his own cheeks flushed red. It was actually rather adorable against his snow white hair. A few strands had fallen out of his braid when he’d been running and had settled over his eyes and cheeks.
“Well if you don’t want…” Nina started feeling a twinge of pain at the thought he might not have actually wanted that.
Adrienne put his hands up and shook his head rather energetically. “No! That’s not… I mean…” He sighed and smiled. “Is that what you want?” he asked his voice turning soft and happy.
Nina held her books a little tighter and looked away from him a bit embarrassed but smiling. “If you don’t mind…” she replied softly. “If you want to be… you know… I wouldn’t mind…” Nina’s heart raced in her chest. It was beating so hard that she thought it might actually explode.
“Are you kidding?” Adrienne asked sounding as excited as a little boy. “Of course that’s what I want! I just, well…” Adrienne blushed more as his voice started to sound a little embarrassed. “I just wasn’t sure that’s what you wanted too.”
They both laughed and were still laughing when Dr. Rothstein arrived. “Well don’t the two of you just look so eager to get started,” he said smiling at them.
“Hi Dad,” Adrienne said with a smile.
“Adrienne, we talked about this the other day. When we’re here you have to call me Dr. Rothstein like all of the other students,” he said scolding him a bit.
“Sorry… I mean, hello Dr. Rothstein.”
“Hello sir,” Nina chimed in as well.
Rothstein just chuckled. “Well it would seem that you are the first ones here. Come along, let’s not stand here milling about in the hallway,” he said as he unlocked the door and opened it. He then stepped out of the way allowing the two of them into the room before following behind them.
Inside the room were six tables, two chairs to a table, and a desk at the front facing the tables. Dr. Rothstein set his bag down on the desk and started taking out his things. Nina and Adrienne took seats at the front table to his left. A few minutes later more students filed into the room until finally, every seat was taken. Nina looked around and noticed that every person in the class seemed to be a lot older than she and Adrienne. She had expected at least a bit of that given what Dr. Rothstein had told her but she didn’t expect them to be that much older. They all looked like they could be at least twenty; some looked like they could be older than even that.
“Good morning everyone,” Dr. Rothstein said as the room settled down. “Welcome to Basics of Medicinal Alchemy. As I’m sure you all already know, I’m Dr. Gregory Rothstein and I will be your instructor for this course and its accompanying lab this semester. Since you are all here, you’ve proven that you have first rate academic track records so I’m expecting great things from each and every one of you. Now let’s get started.”
Rothstein turned to the board and started writing. Nina opened her notebook and took out her pen and started writing. Adrienne, being a bit embarrassed nudged her. “With the craziness I forgot to grab my stuff when those girls chased me out of the library earlier…” he whispered.
Nina just shook her head and chuckled to herself as she slid her extra notebook and a pen over to him. “You owe me,” she whispered back with a wink.
Adrienne smiled at her as he opened the book and started writing as well. “You have no idea how much…”
“Now who can tell me what the greatest taboo in any form of alchemy is?” Rothstein asked as he turned back to face the room. Every hand went up. This was probably the easiest question he’d ask them the entire semester.
He looked around the room and then decided on a young man in the back of the room. “Human Transmutation,” he answered.
“Very good, that’s exactly right.” When he spoke, the woman sitting at the table behind Nina and Adrienne put her hand up. Seeing it, Rothstein acknowledged her so she could ask her question.
“But if human transmutation is taboo and forbidden, how is medicinal alchemy allowed? Isn’t that human transmutation also?”
Rothstein chuckled. “That it is and that’s the million dollar question now isn’t it? There is a fine line between helping people and playing God. When the taboo speaks of human transmutation it focuses primarily on trying to create life from nothing or from death. We must never try to bring the dead back to life and we must never try to make people in another way using alchemy. In medicinal alchemy we simply use what is already available to fix what already exists nothing more, that is why it is not a taboo nor is it illegal to practice medicinal alchemy. That is actually an excellent question to lead us into our first lesson today…”
For the next hour Rothstein spoke of the origins of Amestrian medicinal alchemy. He even touched upon the alchehestry of Xing though he admitted to not knowing very much about it. Nina thought she might have to share with him what May and Alphonse had taught her about it someday.
When the class was over, Nina and Adrienne walked out of the room together. When they came out, Amy was there waiting for her. She couldn’t help but to smirk seeing the two of them together. “You know if Havoc saw you two he’d be heartbroken,” she said with a laugh.
Nina rolled her eyes. “Good, then maybe he’d get the hint and leave me alone. Why are you here anyway?” she asked.
Amy just shook her head and held up a letter. “This came first thing this morning from Dad. I figured I’d wait for you before I opened it considering what the Fuhrer did had to have reached him by now.”
Nina sighed. She had purposely not told her father right away just because she knew Mustang was probably right about how angry he’d most likely be. Though she really shouldn’t be surprised that he would have found out on his own considering it was probably all over the Eastern branch of the Academy already and someone was sure to have said something to him about it. “Alright, give me a few minutes and I’ll meet you back at your room.”
“It’s OK, you can go Nina,” Adrienne said. “After that little show you put on before class I don’t think I’ll have any more trouble…”
Nina just laughed. “I didn’t think you would. I just wanted to walk with you, that’s all, but if you’re sure you don’t want me to come with you…”
Adrienne shook his head. “No that’s not it at all; I mean…” he just sighed. “Aw hell…”
Nina put her hand on his shoulder and just smiled at him. “I was only messing with you, calm down. I’ll see you this afternoon OK?”
He noticeably relaxed and nodded. Then he realized he still had her notebook. “Oh before I forget,” he said trying to hand it back to her.
She gently pushed it back towards him and hugged him. “Keep it for now…” she said softly. “You can give it back later. I’ll see you later.”
Adrienne blushed and hugged her back. “If you say so, then I’ll see you later.” He walked off leaving Amy and Nina standing in the hall.
“Well aren’t the two of you just so cute,” Amy said poking fun at her sister.
“Whatever,” she said grabbing at the letter in Amy’s hand and taking it. Opening it she took the letter out. “Aw man…” Nina said with a sigh.
“What is it? What did he say?” Amy asked reaching for the letter. Nina handed it her so she could read it too. She couldn’t help but to laugh. “And here I thought he was going to be mad. Oh well, at least it looks like you’re off the hook for now.”
“Yeah…”

A New Senshi: Fallen Angel - Chapter 2.4 - Orientation Day

The next morning Nina was up early and waiting outside the assembly hall for the orientation meeting to start. She actually hadn’t been able to sleep a wink after Adrienne had dropped her off back at the dorms so she figured why not get an early start. Since no one was around yet, Nina decided to sit down outside the door. She pulled a book from the bag she’d been carrying and started to read.
“How did I know you’d be the first one down here?” Amy said with a laugh as she walked up to her sister.
Closing her book, Nina looked up at her giving her a rather sarcastic looking grin. “And I didn’t expect you to be here this early. How did you manage to actually get out of bed on time?”
“I can do it if I want to,” Amy replied looking and sounding less than amused. “Besides, it’s hard to sleep with these guys pretty much beating down my door.”
Riley and his gang came walking up behind Amy. Nina sighed when she saw them. It was too early in the morning to be dealing with the Moron Squad. “Ah, I see,” she said as she put her book away and got up. “Good morning,” she continued trying to at least be polite.
“Good morning,” Austin replied before any of the others could. It would seem that he was still stuck on her even though she had pretty much turned him down cold last night.
More people started to gather outside the door. Nina was actually thankful for that since a few of them wanted to talk to her. It was only because of her exam score or because of whom her father was but that didn’t matter much to her, it saved her from having to deal with the awkwardness of Austin.
When the door opened, the crowd that had gathered moved inside and started to take their seats. Nina had managed to find Julia and had planned to sit with her until Dr. Rothstein found her.
“Good morning Ms. Elric,” he said with a smile as he placed his hand on her shoulder.
Turning with a bit of a start Nina smiled when she saw him. “Good morning Dr. Rothstein, how are you today?”
“I’m well thank you for asking. How about yourself? I hope you didn’t catch a chill or the like after last night I hope.”
Nina blushed a deep red. “No I’m fine thank you. Adrienne told you what happened?” she asked sounding rather embarrassed.
Rothstein couldn’t help but to chuckle at her. “Oh just about your unfortunate and unplanned swim in the fountain but don’t worry, though my son tells me things from time to time I don’t think he would tell me anything that would truly be embarrassing.”
Somehow that didn’t really comfort Nina that much. “Well, thank you for your concern Dr. Rothstein, but I think I should take a seat before…”
“That’s actually why I came to find you. If you would be so kind as to come with me, I’ve been asked to have you sit up on the stage for the presentation today. It seems the Fuhrer is here and he has something he’d like to present to you.”
Nina blushed. She didn’t exactly want to be treated as if she was any more special than anyone else but she also couldn’t protest that to Rothstein. She wouldn’t even if she could anyway. “Alright,” she said softly and followed him as they made their way to the stage. Once they had taken their seats and the rest of the room had filled, the orientation presentation began.
Dr. Rothstein stood up at the podium and greeted the incoming students and reminded the returning ones and the new alike about what would be expected of them. Once he was through, the representative from the Student Board got up and spoke about how the class schedules would be handed out once the assembly was over and when they could go to get the books and supplies they’d need for their classes. She finished by letting them know that there were also clubs and student organizations available for them to join and that there would be a separate fair for these once classes had begun.
Finally the formalities of the usual orientation were finished. Dr. Rothstein got up once more and went to the podium. “Alright, I know you’re all eager to get your class schedules but we have one more thing we’d like to do. It’s my pleasure and privilege to introduce to you Fuhrer Roy Mustang. Please join me in welcoming him here today.”
As he made the introduction, Mustang came out onto the stage and gave the room a subtle wave. It was clear he was carrying something in his other hand. Walking up to Dr. Rothstein, Mustang shook the doctor’s hand. “Thank you for the warm reception Dr. Rothstein,” he said with his usual cool smile. Dr. Rothstein stepped aside and allowed Mustang to stand at the podium. Setting the object he had been carrying down on it he smiled at the room. “It’s my pleasure to be here with you all today and it’s an honor for me to be here to present a very special award of achievement to Ms. Nina Elric. Would you please come here Ms. Elric?”
Nina swallowed hard suddenly feeling very nervous. She’d been around the Fuhrer many times in the past but to be up in front of everyone like this, that’s what really got to her. Getting up from her chair she took a few steps over towards the podium. Mustang smiled at her as she came up to stand beside him.
“As many of you know, Ms. Elric is the first since I created the Alchemy Academy system to get a perfect score on the acceptance exam. This is truly an historic occasion and I’d like you all to join me in congratulating her.” As he spoke, he took the covering off the object that he had placed on the podium. “Here I have an official acknowledgement from myself,” he started as he held up the framed document so it could be seen. “And as a token of this achievement I also have this.”Mustang reached into his pocket and pulled out a wooden box. When he opened it he took out its contents, a silver pocket watch, and held it up in his other hand. “This is one of the silver pocket watches granted when an alchemist is given State Certification as I’m sure you all are aware.”
Nina’s jaw nearly dropped and murmurs and whispers of shock could be easily heard throughout the room.
Now I know most of you are probably wondering why I would be giving such a thing to Ms. Elric now. It is a conditional appointment though she has already proven that she has just as much, if not more, knowledge of alchemy as any currently certified alchemist. This watch will allow her all the rights and privileges of any other State Alchemist and upon successful completion of her studies and graduation here at the Central Academy she will also be granted her official title.” Mustang then put the watch back in the box and handed it as well as the document to Nina. He then stepped aside so that she could say a few words.
Nina stepped up to the podium and just stood there for a few moments unable to believe any of this was happening. Finally, after taking a few deep breaths to calm her nerves, she spoke. “Thank you Fuhrer Mustang sir, this is really an honor. I don’t know as I deserve it but I will do my best not to let you and everyone else down.” Nina paused a moment before continuing, “I’m thankful that my twin sister Amy is here to see this, I just wish the rest of my family could have been here too. If it hadn’t been for all of them…” At that point Nina could feel herself choking up and tears forming in her eyes. “I’m sorry,” she continued with a shaky voice. “Thank you,” she managed before she turned from the podium and went back to sit down.
Dr. Rothstein got back up and stood beside Fuhrer Mustang. “Please, a round of applause for Ms. Elric,” he said as he began to clap. Everyone joined in and Nina stood once again on shaky legs bowing her head to them in appreciation.
Once the noise had died down a bit, the room began to clear so that the students could go and get their class schedules. Nina started to make her way off of the stage so she could do the same until Dr. Rothstein stopped her.
“Here you are Nina,” he said as he handed her a piece of paper. “I wanted to give this to you personally so I took the liberty of getting it for you.”
When she took the paper she saw that it was her schedule. Quickly looking it over she then looked at Rothstein in a bit of amazement.
Rothstein saw the look on her face and smiled. “I’ve made sure you’ll be in my classes this semester. Usually one would have to wait until at least their second semester before having a chance to take my classes but given your proven talent I think you can handle it.”
Nina beamed. “Thank you sir! You don’t know how much this means to me.”
Rothstein chuckled. “Oh and I’ve also arranged for your lab partner as well. You’ll be paired with my son Adrienne. I’m sure that won’t be a problem will it?” Rothstein then winked at her.
She was speechless and blushing so much that if she could have turned purple she probably would have. “No, it’s not a problem at all,” she replied softly. “I don’t know how to… How can I ever…”
Rothstein shook his head. “Don’t worry about thanking me. Do your best and make this school and this country proud, that will be thanks enough.”
“I will sir, thank you,” Nina said, still sounding soft and shy.
Rothstein put his hand on her shoulder and smiled as he walked past her and away. Once he was gone, Mustang came up to her. Nina smiled at him as he approached. “Thank you for all of this Fuhrer Mustang.”
He shook his head. “I don’t know as you should be thanking me,” he said with a laugh. “I’m sure once Fullmetal finds out what I’ve done he’s not going to be happy.”
Nina just laughed. “He’ll get over it. Besides, Daddy can’t be mad, he had his certification at twelve, five years earlier than me. He even had his official title and everything at that point, I don’t.”
“Well about that, the only reason I didn’t actually give you your official title and codename was because I’m sure yet what a proper name to give you would be considering most codenames are based on specialization. Show me more of your talents and then I’ll give you your title then. That stays between you and me though.”
Nina chuckled. “Yes sir, you have my word, I won’t tell anyone.”
“Good, now I have to go make sure my son isn’t slacking off. Congratulations again Ms. Elric,” he said as he walked off.
Nina stood there for a moment just trying to let this all sink in. She figured she should put the things she had been given away before she went to get her books. It was also an excuse to avoid most of the crowds of people for a little while. Also, she wanted to make sure the pocket watch was safe, the last thing she wanted was for someone to think they could try and steal it.

A New Senshi: Fallen Angel - Chapter 2.3 - First Date

That evening Nina hurried to the cafeteria to meet with Amy for dinner as she had said she would. When she arrived, Amy was already at a table and much to Nina’s dismay; she was surrounded by the Moron Squad. It didn’t exactly surprise her though but how was she supposed to talk to her sister with those nosey idiots around? She went and got a sandwich and then made her way over to where Amy was.
“There you are,” Amy said as Nina came up to the table. “I was beginning to think you weren’t going to show up.”
Nina looked for an empty space. The only one was opposite her sister and next to Austin so she decided to take it for now. “Yeah, sorry, I got a bit distracted and nearly forgot about coming to get dinner,” she said as she unwrapped her sandwich.
“Oh? Distracted with what?” Amy asked winking at her.
“I’ll tell you later…” she muttered.
Amy picked up on the fact that Nina didn’t really want to talk in front of Riley and the others. Whatever she had been distracted with Amy was pretty sure it had to have something to do with Adrienne. She was going to suggest they go for a walk but Austin had decided to try and talk to Nina.
“Hey, um… Nina?” Austin started.
Nina looked at him. “What is it?” she asked trying not to sound as annoyed as she felt.
“I was wondering, well, are you… would it be alright…”
Nina took a deep breath and sighed heavily. “Spit it out Havoc,” she said, the annoyance she felt slipping a bit more through in her voice.
“Well, I was wondering if you were doing anything later…”
Unable to help it, Nina broke out laughing. He was trying to ask her out, there was something really pathetic about that, at least Nina thought so. There was a part of her that actually thought the only reason Austin was even trying this was because he really wanted Amy but he knew there was no way he was going to get her because of Riley so he’d figured he’d try to the other sister instead. “You’re something else Havoc, really. But sorry, I already have plans tonight,” Nina said as she got up to toss out the wrapper from her dinner.
“What about maybe tomorrow then?” he tried again.
Nina just laughed again. “Give it up Havoc. You and I both know I’m not the girl for you, besides I…” She stopped herself just before she accidently let it slip that she already had someone else. It wasn’t any of their business and she didn’t need them knowing anyway. They’d never leave her alone if they did.
Austin slumped in his chair clearly defeated. “You didn’t have to laugh…” he said softly.
“Sorry, I couldn’t help it. But really Havoc, I think you’d have better luck with my roomy than you would with me. Try talking to her…” Nina said using the first person she could think of to smooth the air a bit. She actually did feel a little bad for laughing like she had and pretty much crushed his spirit in the same way his father crushed out a cigarette.
“Who’s your room mate?” Riley asked.
“Julia Rockbell…”
Amy looked at Nina. “Julia’s your room mate?”
Nina nodded. “Yeah I was just as surprised. Winry didn’t want her to come but I guess she made a pretty strong case and got her dad on her side so Winry relented and let her. She’s actually going to specialize in the medical alchemy program too.”
Amy nodded. “That actually makes sense to me. Just can’t miss the irony of you having her as a roommate considering the stories Dad told us about when they were all growing up in Resembool.”
Nina shrugged. “Yeah but I have to get going, like I said, I have plans tonight. I’ll see you guys at orientation tomorrow morning.”
The Moron Squad waved as she walked away. Amy quickly got up telling Riley she’d be right back and then hurried to catch up to her sister. “So what are these plans you have?” she asked.
“I’m meeting Adrienne,” she said with a bit of a goofy grin.
“Oh? Is he staying here in the dorms?”
Nina shook her head. “No, he’s staying at home but from what he told me earlier when I talked to him on the phone, he only lives around the corner from the school so it’s not far. He’s actually going to be meeting me out front in a few minutes.”
“Wait, you have his phone number?” Amy asked sounding a bit confused. “You never told me that.”
Nina blushed. “I wanted to keep it to myself until I knew for sure it wasn’t just some cosmic joke. He left it for me after we finished the acceptance exam…”
Amy had walked with Nina all the way to the front door of the dorms. When they got there, a rather tall young man with long braided white hair was standing at the bottom of the steps. Nina’s heart jumped into her chest.
“Is that him?” Amy asked seeing the look in Nina’s eyes when she’d spotted him.
Nina nodded. “Yeah, that’s Adrienne…”
“Well, are you going to just leave him standing out there waiting for you?” Amy asked with a wink nudging her.
Nina came to her senses and shook her head. “No,” she said with a laugh. “I’ll see you later alright?”
“You’re not going to introduce me to him Little Sis?”
Nina sighed and just laughed. “Oh alright, come on,” she said as she pushed open the door.
Hearing the door, Adrienne turned around and smiled seeing her there. “Hi Nina!” he said waving to her.
Amy followed a few steps behind Nina as she descended the stairs to the bottom where he was waiting. Seeing Amy, Adrienne smiled at her too. “You must be Amy Elric,” he said. “It’s nice to meet you.”
Amy chuckled. “Know about me already huh? But yup, I’m Nina’s twin sister Amy and you must be Adrienne. Nina’s told me a little bit about you.”
“She has huh?” he replied with a chuckle. “I hope it was good stuff.”
“Yeah it was,” she said with a smile. “Oh well, I won’t hold you guys up anymore. Besides,
I have my own friends to get back to. Have fun!” With that Amy turned and went back inside.
Nina stood there looking a bit embarrassed. She was here but she had no idea what to do now. Adrienne held his hand out to her indicating that if she wanted to she could take it. Figuring it would be rude if she didn’t; Nina reached out and took his hand.
“So, where to?” Adrienne asked smiling at her.
“I hadn’t really thought about it,” she replied blushing. “I’m not really…”
“Really what?”
“Well I’m actually kinda new at this… I really haven’t dated all that much. Actually, I’ve never…”
Adrienne chuckled. “Well believe it or not I haven’t either so don’t worry about it so much OK? Why don’t we just go for a walk and see what happens, that sound alright?”
Nina relaxed a bit and nodded. “Yeah, that actually sounds perfect.”
Hand in hand the two of them headed away from the dorms. Nina purposely led him on a path away from the Military Police patrols. The last thing she wanted was for one of them to stop them and cut their date short. She was pretty sure she wasn’t in any danger anyway since she wasn’t alone and Adrienne wasn’t exactly wimpy looking.
Once they were a little bit away from the school and the dorms, Adrienne took the lead and took her to a square with a fountain in the middle. They sat on the edge of it taking a break.
“So, what is there to do around here?” Nina said finally breaking the silence.
Adrienne stopped and thought about it for a moment then looked at her a bit embarrassed. “I actually don’t really know. I’m actually a little embarrassed to admit this but my dad usually doesn’t let me out much. He’s very over protective.”
Nina looked at him a bit curiously. “Why?”
He sighed heavily. He knew he had to be careful about how he put this or else he would let his secret slip and then his father would never let him out of the house again. He wouldn’t be able to be here like this with Nina ever again if that happened. “Well, I was really sick for a long time when I was younger and he’s never really gotten over it. I think he’s afraid he’ll lose me like we lost my mom when I was a baby. She was really sick too and died not long after I was born.”
“That’s so sad,” she said softly. “I can’t even imagine what it would be like to not have both parents around.”
Adrienne shrugged. “It wasn’t so bad, most of the time anyway. My dad tried to make up for it as much as he could. For as busy as he is, he always made time for me.”
Nina smiled at him. “Dr. Rothstein does seem like a kind man.”
They sat there for a while not saying anything. Nina didn’t know what else to talk about and it seemed neither did Adrienne. Things began to feel a little awkward at least until Nina sneezed and accidently fell backwards into the fountain.
“Nina!” Adrienne shouted as he got up to help her out of the water. “Are you alright?”
She just sat there in the water for a minute laughing. Adrienne couldn’t help but laugh with her. Even soaking wet as she was, he couldn’t help but notice how bright and pretty she was when she laughed.
“Come on, get out of there before you catch a cold,” he said still laughing a bit as he offered her his hand.
She looked up at him and took his hand. Her breath caught a bit as she noticed the moon seemed to be right behind him. It made him look, well for lack of a better way to put it, it made him look like an angel.
He looked at her a bit strangely seeing that she seemed to be off somewhere in thought. “Nina? You sure you’re OK?”
Hearing his voice she snapped out of it and just smiled. “Yeah, I’m fine, couldn’t be better actually,” she answered as she got up with his help and got out of the fountain. “We should head back though. Like you said, I don’t want to catch cold being all wet like this.”
Adrienne nodded. “You’re probably right. If it’s OK with you, I’ll walk you back.”
“I’d like that,” she said softly. “Thanks.”

A New Senshi: Fallen Angel - Chapter 2.2 - Getting Started

When they arrived at the train station in Central, Colonel Armstrong was there to greet them just as he had been on their last visit. This left the girls confused. Hadn’t their father said they weren’t going to get a personal escort this time?
“Colonel, not that we’re not happy to see you but what are you doing here?” Nina asked as both she and Amy walked up to him.
Armstrong smiled broadly at them. “Hello ladies! It’s a pleasure to see you again. Fuhrer Mustang wanted to ensure that you were safely delivered to the Academy’s dormitories. I’ve been ordered to escort you there and see that you get properly settled in. Have no worries though, we won’t impede your studies in any way after that.”
Nina and Amy both sighed not liking this very much. Colonel Armstrong stuck out like a sore thumb. The last thing they wanted was to arrive with an escort, it was so embarrassing. At least it was only temporary.
Taking their luggage for them, Armstrong led them out of the station and out to a car that was waiting outside. They couldn’t help but to notice that it was a beautiful day in Central. When Nina looked up she saw something fly by over head. From its size, Nina thought it might be an eagle or a larger hawk. It really did look majestic.
When they arrived at the dorms, Riley and his friends were standing outside. Seeing them Amy beamed and leapt from the car. “Riley! Austin! Peter! Harrison! What are you guys doing here? I thought you were supposed to be staying at the Eastern Academy?”
Riley grinned at her. “I couldn’t very well stay there if you were coming here could I? Someone needs to look out for you and keep you out of trouble.”
Nina couldn’t help but to laugh at the idea of Riley and the rest of the Moron Squad keeping Amy out of trouble.
“And since Riley changed his mind and wanted to come here, well it was arranged so we could transfer here too,” Austin Havoc chimed in. “Besides, Mustang is off his rocker if he thinks he can keep you out of trouble when he’s likely to be the one starting things to begin with, him and that hot headed temper of his.”
Riley punched Austin in the arm annoyed that he’d called him hot headed. “Shut it Havoc…”
Amy just laughed. “It doesn’t matter, I’m just glad to see you guys,” she said pulling the four boys as close together as she could to hug them.
“Aw come on Amy! What if someone sees? You’re risking our reputation!” Breda complained.
“I don’t care,” Amy said but she let them go anyway.
Armstrong had taken their bags from the trunk of the car and was preparing to help the girls with them but Riley went up to him and smiled. “Don’t worry about this Colonel, we’ll handle this.”
Armstrong shook his head. “I’m sorry Riley but I have strict orders from your father not to let the Elric girls out of my sight until they are settled into their rooms.”
“I didn’t say you were dismissed Colonel. My friends and I are going to handle taking Amy and Nina’s things inside, that’s all.”
“But Riley sir…”
Riley narrowed his dark eyes at Armstrong. “Are you arguing with me Colonel Armstrong?”
Armstrong swallowed hard. “No sir, I just…”
“Good,” Riley said as he picked up Amy’s bag and motioned for Austin to come get Nina’s.
Nina didn’t let him get there though. “Thanks but no thanks Riley,” Nina said sounding condescending. “I’m perfectly able to carry my own bag thank you very much.” She went over and picked her own bag up and started to head inside. Riley just glared at her a bit. How could she be Amy’s sister? She always acted so high and mighty and ignored them. How was he supposed to get Austin close enough to Nina for her to notice him if she kept acting that way? What did he see in her anyway?
Amy followed after Nina and the others behind her. Getting inside, Nina and Amy looked at the room assignments that were posted in the entrance hall. Amy was on the second floor while Nina was on the first. Armstrong debated for a moment how best to see to their safety.
“Do ahead and go with Nina, I think my friends and I can take care of Amy from here. There are four of us after all and with all of the MPs running around I don’t think anyone would try anything anyway.”
Armstrong nodded not seeing any harm in that plan. Nina just sighed. Why did she get stuck with the muscle bound baby sitter?
Amy went over and hugged her sister. “I’ll see you later at dinner alright?”
Nina just chuckled and nodded. “Have fun Amy, I’ll see you later.”
Riley and his gang took Amy and headed off to the second floor. They were on that floor too anyway. Nina wasn’t sure that was going to be a good idea in the long run but it wasn’t her problem to worry about.
Armstrong followed Nina down the first floor corridor until they reached her room, 103. When she opened the door, there was another girl already there. Nina recognized her at once; it was Julia Rockbell, Winry and Kevin’s daughter. Nina had met her a few times when she’d gone with Edward to Rush Valley to have his leg tuned up. She had always thought it weird that Julia had Winry’s last name. Her father had told her once that Winry and Kevin had decided to use the Rockbell name because it was well known and had an expert reputation in the automail world but Nina still thought it was silly.
“Hi Nina!” she said getting up from the bed. “Long time no see!”
“Hi Julia, how’ve you been?” she asked as she came in and set her bag down on the empty bed. “I admit I’m surprised to see you here. I didn’t think your parents would send you to an alchemy academy given their professions.”
Julia laughed. “Mom didn’t want me to come actually, she wanted me to focus on engineering and follow after her and dad and make automail but I guess, well, I wanted to do something different. I mean it’s not that I hate automail or anything, I do plan to do it, I just want to explore the possibilities of using alchemy and automail to make better prosthetics for people. That’s why I’m here for the medical alchemy program.”
“Funny, so am I,” Nina laughed.
“That’s not surprising considering what Alphonse does…”
As the girls talked and Nina unpacked, a man arrived. “Um… Excuse me; I’m looking for a Nina Elric. Is this her room?” he asked as he poked his head into the still open door. Armstrong had already left to go check on Amy.
“That’s me,” she said with a smile. “Can I help you?”
“I have the boxes with your things from Resembool,” he said.
“Oh, um… OK… just bring them in and set them in the corner there,” she said pointing. The man nodded and disappeared. A few moments later three man came into the room, their arms filled with her things. They put them down and excused themselves. Nina would deal with those later.
Just then Armstrong appeared in the door once more. “Are you all settled Miss Nina?” he asked.
Nina smiled and nodded. “Yeah Colonel, I should be all set now. Thanks.”
He nodded and then pulled the door closed as he left. Nina was thankful he was finally gone. She pulled Adrienne’s note from her pocket and smiled. “Julia, I’ll be back in a little while OK?” she said as she went out and down the hall to the phone.
Nina stared at the phone for a minute gathering up the nerve to actually dial the number. When she was finally able to dial, the phone rang a few times before a man picked up. Nina debated just hanging up but didn’t. “Um, hello? Can I speak with Adrienne please?” she asked trying to keep her voice from shaking because of her nerves.
“Who may I ask is calling?” the man’s voice asked.
“Nina Elric…”
“Oh Nina, I didn’t expect you to call!” said the man’s voice. It took Nina a second but then she realized who she was talking to.
“Is that you Dr. Rothstein? I’m sorry if I disturbed you…”
“Oh no, you’re didn’t disturb me at all. Hold on a moment and I’ll get Adrienne for you.”
“Thank you,” she said smiling, her voice echoing that smile.
After a few moments Adrienne picked up the phone. “Hi Nina!”
“Hi Adrienne, you said to call when I was in Central again so…”
“Are you at the dorms?”
“Yeah, I am. How’d you know?”
Adrienne laughed. “My dad’s on the selection committee Nina, I knew before you did that you’d been accepted and today was move in day wasn’t it?”
Nina sighed and laughed. She should have known. “Yeah. Did you get accepted too?”
“Yeah but I won’t be living in the dorms like you. My dad won’t allow it but then I live pretty much around the corner anyway. Hey, do you have time tonight?”
“After dinner I should, why?”
Adrienne paused for a moment before answering her. “Well, I was hoping… is it alright if I come see you?”
Nina tried to contain her excitement. “I’d really like that. How about I meet you outside the dorms at seven, is that alright?”
Adrienne’s heart jumped. “That’s perfect,” he said, his voice conveying the smile that was on his face. “It’s a date then.”
A date? He said it was a date. That made Nina’s heart jump too. “Yeah, then I’ll see you at seven then. Bye Adrienne.”
“Bye Nina,” he said softly and they both hung up the phone.
Nina ran back to her room excited. She couldn’t believe it, Adrienne wanted to see her just like she’d wanted to see him.