Disclaimer: Here's your only warning: angst ahead, but with a happy ending. Promise. For the Free Day of Elderburn Week 2018.


Day -195
Winter awoke to her alarm much like every other day despite the realization that she'd turned twenty seven while she slept. Her final birthday, a marker she'd seen coming and watched with equal parts dread and grim acceptance. How else should she regard the milestone?

Sitting up in bed, she cast her gaze around her military lodging. Per regulation, she would be discharged one hundred and eighty days prior to her death day, which gave her only two more weeks amid familiar surroundings before she would have to move her meager belongings into one of the funeral motels- a distasteful reality, to be sure, but a necessary one. They only existed for people like her, those too stubborn or too far gone to be welcomed back home for their final days.

Getting out of bed, she grabbed her scroll and headed for the kitchen area. No doubt Weiss would call, try to arrange for some manner of bonding. Although it had taken them a few years, the sisters had improved their relationship substantially during that time, no longer at odds now that they'd similarly distanced themselves from their father. Without him constantly driving a wedge between them, they got on rather well, and their brief contact with their mother similarly proved much easier without his interference.

Then again, it might be her imminent death that moved them to mend bridges rather than remaining silent until the end. That Winter, the eldest daughter, would only live for twenty seven and a half years while her mother and sister had over eighty years each seemed unfair to some extent but… it also made her invincible, in some ways.

She didn't fear death. She didn't have to consider the long term health effects of strenuous work or balk at suicide missions. She didn't have to worry about anything. Twenty seven years… in the grand scheme of things, she couldn't do much with that, aside from what the military offered her. She couldn't have a family of her own because leaving them behind would be unfair. So she adopted her soldiers and defended them viciously. It won her more accolades than she could count.

But she would be lying if she said she had no regrets. It lingered in the back of her mind- children, a wife, a family of her own. A dream she wanted to chase but couldn't.

Her scroll ringing snapped her out of autopilot, only then registering the bubbling of coffee and the bread toasting, as close to a breakfast as she felt necessary. She picked it up, unsurprised to see who it was calling her.

"Good morning, Weiss."

"Happy birthday, Winter."

She chuckled, pinning the scroll between shoulder and ear as she continued making her meal. "I'm not sure if that's entirely appropriate, given the circumstances."

"I don't want to be morbid about it; just because it's your last doesn't mean it can't be a good one."

"I suppose you have a point," she replied, grabbing a mug from the cupboard. "How are your cases going?"

"Ah, right, I… probably should've informed you already." A pause, anxiety gripping her sister then, almost audible in her concern. "I've opted to stop practicing business law."

"Oh?" She raised a brow. "Have you found a different calling?"

"Family court." Her other brow joined the first. "I've found that the work suits me a little better."

"Really?" She lifted the mug to her lips, needing the bite of black coffee to prepare her for the day. "I would think watching families tear themselves apart would be the furthest thing from what you'd want to pursue."

"Actually, I tend to think of it as ensuring the best circumstances for the children," she said, her voice turning to steel. "I'm rather tired of seeing children awarded to the parent with the most money. It's hardly a fitting scale for the child's welfare. It certainly did us no favors."

"I'm glad to hear you aren't in it for the money." Her toast popped up, and she grabbed the jam from her fridge to spread across the slices. "Any noteworthy cases?"

"None I'd like to discuss at present." Weiss paused, obviously hesitant to voice the next sentence but doing it all the same. "I'd rather talk about your living arrangements."

That made her pause. "I already told you-"

"Come to Vale. Stay with me instead of one of those wretched death motels. It's no way to spend your last six months."

"I only planned to use one for the final two; there's some traveling I'd like to do beforehand," she said, sighing. "But I can make Vale my first stop… and I'll consider returning for the last month. Did you talk this over with your girlfriend?"

"Blake's been the one pushing for it." Weiss admitted with a fond little laugh. "If you met her parents, you'd understand. It took her a while to reconnect with them but she's now very adamant about supporting familial bonds. Our friends may or may not be an equally strong influence."

Rolling her eyes, she took a bite of toast to mull it over. "Very well. I'll be discharged in fifteen days. I'll book my flight to Vale as soon as I finish breakfast."

"Excellent! I think you'll like Vale-"

"I've been there before, remember?"

"Right, right, but I think there's a few spots you haven't experienced fully…"

Winter listened as her sister went on a long speech, expounding all the things she'd yet to see in the kingdom of Vale. She couldn't help but smile; at least she could rest easy knowing Weiss' zest for life wouldn't suffer from her passing.

Maybe she could spend a bit more time in Vale than she'd originally planned.


Day -180
Winter stood outside the terminal, bag slung over her shoulder. She'd opted to travel light, having already sold or gifted her worldly possessions while going through the process of leaving the Atlesian military. In the unassuming drab olive bag sat a few changes of clothes and her hygiene kit; she needed nothing more.

Well, except a ride.

Checking her scroll, a frown touched her lips as she noted the message Weiss had sent her a good two hours ago, warning that her meeting with clients ran long and she'd be sending a friend to pick her up. Really, she wasn't in any hurry, so it didn't truly matter; she had one hundred and eighty days to wait.

She'd accepted it. All her affairs were in order, lightly tapped into line over the past few months, and she had nothing left except seeing a few sights and spending time with the only family she cared to claim.

As easy an end as could come.

Various vehicles came and went, waving goodbye to loved ones bound for airships or welcoming them back, and she contemplated taking up smoking in her final months- because, really, what harm could it do? Her aura, the life force that sustained her, would give out far before her lungs would.

It wouldn't be accurate to say she didn't notice the roar of a motorcycle coming around the bend, seeing as it was rather impossible to miss, but she didn't expect for the rider to make a short stop in front of her, a bit of smoke rising up from the skid marks as she kicked out a leg and lifted her helmet clear of her head.

"Wow, when Weiss said 'look for an older version of me, but more pissed off', she meant it literally!" Lilac eyes that sparkled like her smile, an unruly mane of golden locks, and skin tanned and kissed by the sun- Yang Xiao Long, if her memory served, though her sister's description of the woman hardly did her justice. "It's nice to finally meet you! Weiss talks about her big sis all the time!"

"And you must be Yang," she replied, offering a hand. "She's mentioned you as well."

"All good things I hope!" She laughed, shaking Winter's hand with a strong, firm grip, flexing muscles beneath her skin tight leather jacket. "Sorry I don't have a car; I prefer riding and didn't know you needed a lift until I was already out."

"It's no trouble." She shrugged her shoulder to indicate the bag. "I'm traveling light."

"Hey, sounds good to me!" Then she turned, digging into a saddle bag attached to the bike and fishing out a helmet. "Here. I really hope it fits alright."

Winter smiled, a bit bemused. Weiss mentioned that Yang could be caring bordering on motherly from time to time and took other people's feelings seriously, but she hadn't expected someone quite so… well, genuinely kind. "I'm sure it'll be fine."

"Great!" She waved a hand towards the city beyond. "Officially, I'd like to welcome you to Vale! Where do you wanna go first?"

And she didn't know why, really, but she felt a smile tug at her lips. "Surprise me."

And the expression was mirrored back at her. "I'll do my best."


Day -166
Two weeks later, Winter found herself with a… strangely active social life. She'd never exactly sought out friends or companions- she fell into step with some fellow service members from time to time, sure, but she didn't actively try to come across others or spend time with them. It just seemed like a futile effort, seeing as she would only have a handful of years with them. Why make her loss even more felt?

But, as she'd quickly learned, Yang Xiao Long was a very hard woman to turn down.

"C'mon!" The blonde laughed, smiling wide enough for a dimple to appear in her cheeks. "How have you never been to a carnival?"

"I just never saw the point." She shrugged, finishing off the last bit of her coffee. They'd opted to meet for brunch on a gorgeous Saturday, when Yang's job permit her time off. "Cheap rides and cheaper prizes- I don't see the appeal."

"It's about the experience!" She spread her arms wide, voice taking on a rather whimsical quality. "I mean- the music, the screams, the cotton candy, the flashing lights, the pings of the ring toss, all of it's great! And the view of the city from the top of the Ferris Wheel? How can you pass that up?"

Raising a hand, she conceded defeat. "I'll at least admit that you make it sound far more interesting than I thought."

"Hey, if you're still skeptical, why don't you give me the chance to prove you wrong?" She jerked her head. "There's one down by the docks. I could pick you up around five?"

On the one hand, it would at least be cool enough by then to bear, seeing as she hadn't quite acclimated to Vale's warmer climate yet. On the other… "I find it hard to admire the lights you've mentioned with the sun up."

"See, that's the beauty of it." She waved a hand. "We go a few rounds on the bumper cars, we play some games, maybe a ride or two, and then we can grab some good, greasy carnival food and catch the Ferris wheel as the sun sets." She smiled again, eyes sparkling. "What do ya say?"

"Count me in," she replied, finding herself more and more agreeable with Yang's suggestions. Ever since the woman opted to surprise her with some of the best food- home cooked at that- she'd ever tasted and a trip out to Beacon Falls when she first arrived in Vale, Winter couldn't really fault her self appointed tour guide's tastes. "But at the end of the night, when we're both lamenting how much time we'd wasted, I want you to remember this conversation."

"Oh, I will."

Winter didn't know she could enjoy someone's company so much. She'd never really had a best friend before but Yang… she made it impossible not to consider her for the position. An infectious laugh, a kind and caring demeanor, a penchant for joking- a proverbial sun to brighten her day. While she couldn't quite return that- razor sharp her wit might be, but it tended towards the biting sort, not the funny kind- she somehow provided the woman with something, considering how often they met for little talks like this.

It made her heart ache a little. With her time so limited, it would've been nice to have known Yang earlier in life. Perhaps they could've been more than friends.


Winter sighed, relaxing back into the seat as the Ferris Wheel began to turn, raising them into the twilight sky. As much as she hadn't admitted it aloud, she'd found their activities at the carnival were a great deal more entertaining than she'd expected. She'd won a cheap teddy bear at the dart toss, and felt more than a little proud of that, and Yang had won a stuffed dog of some sort at the 'test your strength' game, proving the muscles in her arms and core weren't just for show, even if the air had turned a bit cool by a Valen's tastes for the halter top she wore.

"So?" Yang turned towards her, settling an arm across the back of the seat. "How lame are carnivals?"

"Very well, I concede defeat." She rolled her eyes at the woman's wide grin. "This was a lot more enjoyable than I expected. Truly an experience worth having."

"See, now that's what I'm talking about!" She chuckled, waving a wand in front of them. "And this is the best part! I mean, look at this view!"

Blue eyes roved over the cityscape, lights beginning to flicker on as the sun sank beyond the horizon. "Personally, I'm partial to the roller coasters, but this is nice."

As they ascended, the wheel stopped to admit new passengers, until they sat at the very top. "Ya know, some people think that Ferris wheels are kinda romantic."

She returned her attention to the woman beside her, raising a brow. "And why is that?"

Yang had her own gaze trained on the sights below them, a small smile on her lips. "It's kinda intimate? Alone, on top of the world, night falling… seems like the perfect time to sneak in a kiss, yeah?"

"That does sound rather romantic." Again, her thoughts turned to her single regret, that she would never indulge in the secret, strong desire for a family of her own. A partner to kiss at the top of a Ferris wheel- how bittersweet that the night would provide her with both a wonderful experience and a daydream that would never be fulfilled.

Then she noticed Yang turning, the arm she'd rested on the back of the seat curling around Winter's shoulders, trying to coax her closer as the woman's head tilted.

She quickly put a hand on the blonde's shoulder, stopping her advance immediately.

"Huh?" Yang leaned back, blinking at her a bit owlishly as a blush began to rise in her cheeks. "Oh, I thought- sorry, I just-"

"There's no need to apologize." She offered a small, sad smile. "If I had more time, I'd take you up on that offer. But as it stands, I've less than six months. There are better uses of your time."

"Wait, what does that have to do with anything?" Confusion splayed across her expression as the wheel began to turn again. "Just because your time is running out doesn't mean you stop living."

"That's a nice sentiment." She chuckled, touched by a bit of dark humor. "But I've lived all I wish to; now, it's just a matter of waiting out my remaining days."

"So, what? You're just going to give up?" She withdrew her arm, running her hand across her bicep where a long, golden dragon tattoo wrapped itself around a white rose. "Haven't you ever heard it's better to have loved and lost than to never love at all?"

"I've never seen the sense in that," she replied, sighing. "I've lived my life without regrets and without apologies. I've become exactly the sort of person I set out to be. Were I to become involved with someone now, it would just be a blip- nothing meaningful. There's no reason to pursue something I'll not have the chance to finish."

"You never 'finish' loving someone." Yang slumped slightly in her seat. "It doesn't work like that."

"At any rate, I'm afraid it's one of the many mysteries I'll not have the chance to unravel myself."

"You mean, you won't take the chance."

"Semantics." As they approached the platform, she glanced back at Yang. "How long do you have? If you don't mind the question."

She gave a mirthless chuckle. "In total? One hundred and forty six years. Plus some change."

"Oh." She blinked. "That's… quite a long time."

"Runs in the family." A sigh left her lips. "Downside is, I'll end up watching a lot of people die. I'll get left behind. But, at least, I can choose who leaves me behind like that now." She shrugged. "And I'd choose you."

"Forgive me for sparing you that pain." As the attendant raised the bar so they could exit, she looked back at Yang. "Save it for someone who can give you years, not months."

"A month from the right person is worth years from someone else."

She said nothing in response even as Yang fell into step beside her, the two heading for the parking lot. A rather sour end to an otherwise pleasant experience but she tried not to dwell on it.

In the end, it was for the best.


Day -162
Winter pressed her lips together in a thin line, maintaining her sister's stare for a few moments longer. Then, she relented. "What would you have me do?"

"You're more than entitled to conduct your affairs as you see fit," Weiss said, a thread of annoyance in her tone. "But you did lead Yang on; you could've made it very clear from the beginning that you didn't wish to entertain anything romantic."

"She knew very well why I'm here. She could've drawn her own conclusions." A bit unfair a claim, perhaps, and maybe she'd noticed that the attention she'd received from Yang wasn't the platonic sort, but it still should've been obvious. "If the circumstances were different-"

"The circumstances, as you call them, and entirely within your head." Her sister wagged a finger at her, and she had to be a bit proud that Weiss somehow learned to stand up and buck those whom she admired. "Yang's aware of the situation and still wants to try. If you're turning her down because you feel it's a waste of your time, then tell her that. But don't try to blame her for it."

"That's not-"

"That's exactly-"

"HEY!" They both stopped, turning to look at the Faunus frowning at them from the kitchen. "Stop fighting about it. Weiss, I appreciate you sticking up for Yang, but it is Winter's decision. Winter, you could've turned Yang down in a better way than making it seem like having a shorter countdown is a reason to not consider a relationship. You could've just said you weren't interested."

"That would be a lie, though, and I still don't see the error in my logic," she said, not nearly as inclined to quit the field just because Blake had spoken up as her sister. "It's perfectly sound-"

"Almost everyone will die before Yang." Feline ears flicked back, a subtle display of her mounting aggravation. "She's known that since she was young. Most people don't have the sort of aura she does, the sort of time, and it puts a lot of people off. They don't want to get involved with someone they know will outlive them by decades and they always say it's for her sake. She's just tired of people making that determination for her."

Winter sat back in her chair. She hadn't considered that angle before. "But some don't, correct? Use that excuse, I mean."

"I didn't." Blake shrugged, disappearing back into the kitchen for a moment before returning with two mugs of coffee, setting them down on the table for the sisters. "We didn't date for long, but we learned a lot about ourselves from the experience." She bent down and pressed a kiss to the top of Weiss' head. "That's how I found out I need a little more friction from my partner. Someone to challenge me."

"Which I certainly do, some days more than others," she replied with a fond smile, tilting her head back for a proper kiss before Blake went back for her tea. "But more to the point, relationships- or dating in general, for that matter, it's not about finding forever right away. It's about the potential."

"Except, there is no potential here." She spread her hands. "My time's almost up."

"And when it is, are you certain you'll be at peace with never knowing?" Weiss raised a brow. "Perhaps you and Yang aren't meant to last anyway." Blake sat down beside her, wordlessly offering her hand so they could sit, side-by-side, fingers interlaced, their chosen beverages in their other hand. "But perhaps she'll be there at the end."

Winter's gaze lingered on their hands before she looked away, busying herself with her coffee.

For a woman already slated to die… would a taste of ambrosia really be so terrible an indulgence? And if it turned to poison on her tongue, what could the harm be?

Perhaps it wasn't too late to mend one last bridge. She still didn't think pursuing a relationship would be wise but she could at least reach out and apologize for her thoughtless words.


Day -157
If she didn't know any better, Winter would be very hard pressed to think anything could be remiss. Yang seemed in high spirits as they walked through downtown, heading to a little restaurant that didn't get nearly enough attention considering the quality of their cuisine, according to the blonde anyway. In fact, she seemed just as upbeat as ever.

But she didn't quite press close like she used to, verging on invading personal space but not quite crossing the line. Her gaze seemed focused elsewhere, rarely on Winter, when it seemed like her attention rarely wandered before. Most obvious of all, however, was the complete absence of teases and jokes, those little flirtations that had fallen from her lips so freely.

This could not continue.

"We don't have to do this," she said, her voice soft. "We can be cordial without overt acts of friendship."

"What?" Lilac eyes snapped to her, then immediately darted away. "I mean- I, uh, I'm not following."

"I'm saying that, if I make you uncomfortable, just say so."

Yang pressed her lips together, looking down at her feet for a moment. "It's not you; I'm just… I like you, Winter. I wanna get to know you a little better, ya know? But I get it, you don't want that, so it's gonna take some time for me to… get over it."

Her brows pinched together. "You mean, you're still interested in me? How?"

For a moment, they just blinked at each other, and then Yang started laughing, shaking her head as she walked. "You really don't see it, huh? You're a heartbreaker, Winter."

"I beg pardon- what do you mean by that?" She hurried to catch up to the woman, a frown on her lips.

"You're just- you're kinda amazing!" She glanced over. "You've got this poised and dignified thing going on, like you're above it all, but then you turn around and you swear under your breath and you get annoyed over things like anyone else. You've got a sweet side that you don't always show and I like coaxing it out. And you're just- you're steady. You're like the ground beneath my feet." She shrugged. "It's hard to put into words but I just… feel good around you. You laugh at my jokes and you listen to what I have to say and it makes me feel invincible."

"I don't see how-"

"Hold on, lemme finish." Lilac eyes sparkled, though there seemed to be a hint of sadness about them. "See, I know if I see it, others can, too. Have you ever thought of how many people have fallen in love with you without you ever being the wiser?"

She hummed. "I suppose I haven't."

"Yeah. That's what I meant. You've probably broken a lot of hearts, just being you." Another shrug. "So, yeah. I'm kinda bummed you aren't interested, and it's going to take a while to get over, because I still look at you and see marble over steel, silk over iron, and it still gets me. It just takes time for it to… not. I'll get over it, eventually."

They walked a few more steps before Winter spoke up. "I never said I wasn't interested in you."

"You aren't interested in a relationship," she said, waving a hand. "Same difference."

A shrug. "Perhaps my thoughts on that have changed."

That brought Yang to an abrupt halt. "Wait, did I hear that right?"

"You did." Winter nodded, clearing her throat. "Now, you must understand that this will only be temporary-"

"Hey, don't ruin the fun!" She smiled wide, enough for that dimple to reappear, and linked their arms together. "We both know we're on a clock. That doesn't mean we have to focus on it!"

"I suppose you're right." She chuckled, both amazed and a little proud that something so small could make Yang so happy, and that she'd been the one to cause it. "And try to give me some… slack. I don't exactly have much experience dating-"

"Then I'll be your teacher." She laughed, a happy and free sound. "Lesson one? I'm gonna be your rock. So lean on me if you need to and don't be afraid to speak up, alright? You can always hit me up just to talk." She tapped the side of her head. "I'm a pretty good listener."

"As long as you'll do the same," she replied, tone turning serious. "I do prize honest communication."

"I picked up on that." Yang smiled, leaning her head to rest against Winter's shoulder.

It felt… words couldn't describe it. Having someone so close, actually touching her, being so… she'd never allowed herself to focus too heavily on what she'd be missing, not pursuing that single daydream she harbored. Now, she could tell with utmost certainty that it would be her only regret.

Still, despite the melancholy, she couldn't help but feel warmer and lighter with Yang beside her. Perhaps it would never satisfy her deepest desire but maybe she could still enjoy what she could while it lasted.

"Oh, and one more thing. Just for the record." Yang hummed curiously and a smile curled her lips. "I think you're quite amazing as well."

A chuckle and a squeeze of her arm were all she received in response.


Day -143
Dating Yang, as it turned out, was akin to breathing air. She fell into it much easier than she expected- or perhaps it only felt like that because the woman seemed patient to a fault. Either way, it became habit to grab her scroll and send a text before even getting out of bed, wishing Yang a good day and hoping she slept well.

"Are you sure-"

"I'm fine, Snowdrift! I got this!"

Talking to her became as easy as before but their conversations turned deeper, more personal. Yang confided in her- her fears, her worries, her weaknesses, her triumphs. How she felt more than a little cocky after showing up some rude customer who'd tried to con her into giving a discount, how she cried for a week when her favorite character in a tv show died, how she had to restrain herself and busy herself with other things to keep from hovering around her little sister, how she worried that, in the end, she would have little to show for her long life span. Winter learned that beneath the cheer and jokes lay a glass heart- golden and true, yes, but pieced back together after being scratched and gouged.

"Sundrop. I'm right here."

"I'm getting the hang of it!"

Yang loved freely and she'd been hurt for it but she threw herself into everything with the same vigor regardless. Perhaps more cautiously, perhaps with more restraint, but with no lack of fire in her soul. Winter admired that, adored it even, and she'd swallowed her pride and admitted Weiss and Blake were right to talk some sense into her. It would break Yang's heart when she passed but, for every minute they had together, they made them count. And she'd emerge all the stronger for it.

"Yang."

Lilac eyes flashed her way, one of her stubborn streaks possessing her as she clung to the rail for dear life. "I said. I got this."

"It's been fifteen minutes and you've moved two meters." Winter raised a brow, nodding towards the little entry door to the indoor rink. "I'm not saying it's an insurmountable task; I'm merely offering a shortcut."

Perhaps ice skating, though, wasn't the best suggestion for a date.

"Look…" Yang tried closing the distance and standing up straight but nearly lost her balance again and went back to clinging to the rail. "… okay, fine." She puffed a breath up, ruffling the golden bangs peeking out from beneath her cap. "I've never ice skated before."

"I surmised that." She chuckled, holding out both hands. "Give me your hands."

"But-"

"Trust me." Such a simple phrase. Such a powerful one. Without another moment's hesitation, Yang took her hands, awaiting the next set of directions. "Now, just try to focus on your balance."

And then she was skating backwards, dragging her girlfriend with her, and bracing as best she could against the jerks and hesitations from the woman as she tried to find her balance. It amused her, how off kilter she seemed, but Yang did her best to not use her superior strength to her advantage and bring them both crashing to the ice.

Which, in itself, was rather telling.

"Okay… I'm getting the hang of it." She nodded, tongue poking out in that little way she had as she concentrated.

"Indeed." Winter smiled, noticing she could lead them into a gentle turn without a jerking motion to answer her. "It's almost like you've stopped feigning inexperience."

Blonde brows climbed high before she barked out a laugh. "Can't get anything past you!" She shrugged, pushing off with her skates and adding to their momentum. "I learned when I was really young but I haven't skated in years."

"Then why pretend otherwise?" She didn't really concern herself with the little fib, not until she'd uncovered the reasoning at least.

"Isn't it obvious?" She chuckled. "I didn't want to embarrass myself! I'm still trying to impress you!"

"Impress me?" Now, she laughed, shaking her head. "You needn't worry about that. You're perhaps the most impressive person I know."

"C'mon." She rolled her eyes, using the next turn to turn herself around and skate beside Winter, keeping one hand clasped in hers while the other swung wide. "Your sister is a lawyer, she's dating a community activist, you're practically famous in your own right- that's a lot! And I'm just-"

"Hold on now," she said, wanting to correct a few misconceptions immediately. "What makes my sister impressive, in my eyes, is that she broke away from a toxic environment and built a life she can be proud of in doing so. Next, what makes Blake impressive is that she's made mistakes in her life and found a way to not only overcome them but make amends as well. And the only thing I find impressive about myself is how I'm incapable of boiling an egg without step-by-step instructions but can disassemble an Atlas Paladin and put it back together in less than two hours without so much as glancing at a manual." Her expression softened. "And you are not 'just' anything. You started your own business and built it from the ground up, working out of your own garage until you could open a proper shop. You provided for your sister and supported her through university. And you did something only three people can even claim: you changed my mind." She skated a little closer, lowering her voice. "Frankly, you've yet to do something that doesn't impress me."

"You really think that highly of lil ole me?" She tried playing it off with a laugh but her cheeks turned a bit redder, and it had nothing to do with the cold of the rink. "Gotta say, I didn't expect that."

"Then you probably didn't expect this, either." She smirked, shifting her weight and pulling on Yang's hand as she switched to skating backwards, now in control of their momentum. As her girlfriend struggled to keep her feet, Winter lead them to the middle of the rink, the stopped short, bringing them close together- close enough for her to lean down and steal a firm, deliberate kiss.

At first, she stiffened, caught off guard, but then she came roaring back to her senses and held her close, fingers digging into Winter's jacket.

When they parted, she wore a dopey grin on her lips. "Well… got me there. Didn't expect that either."

"Not as intimate as the top of a Ferris wheel, admittedly," she said, aware of the various eyes upon them, the little awes from adults and either confusion or excitement from children, but ignored them all. "But I do hope that was sufficiently romantic."

"Hmmm," Yang replied with that twinkle in her eyes. "I dunno. Might need to try it again for a real comparison."

"Where's the next carnival?"

She'd planned on some manner of travel, simply to pass the days. This proved to be a much better use of her time.


Day -139
"What's on your mind?"

Winter blinked, turning away from the view outside the airship window to see her girlfriend's expression pinched into concern. "Nothing."

Yang watched her for a moment before sitting back in her seat. "Alright."

She winced. Fooling the woman turned out to be much harder than she'd anticipated and it just made her feel lousy besides. "It's just… Weiss is keeping secrets from me."

"How do you know that?" Something about lilac eyes watching her carefully made her think that perhaps the odd behavior she'd noticed had an explanation- one her girlfriend seemed privy to, for some reason.

"Usually, Weiss allows me free roam of the house, whether or not she's there." She frowned. "Lately, I've noticed she tries to… steer me clear of wherever Blake is. Not in overt means, of course, but I've hardly seen her in the past week for some odd reason."

"Well, it might not be the solution you're looking for, but why don't you move in with me?" Yang shrugged. "Maybe they just need some space."

Her eyes narrowed in suspicion. "You know why Blake's avoiding me, don't you?"

"Yeah," she replied instantly, expression twisting. "But it's not my place to tell. I get where they're coming from, even if I disagree with how they're handling it."

Winter hummed, slipping an arm around Yang's shoulders, coaxing her girlfriend into leaning her head against her shoulder. "You think that if I moved in with you, it would improve matters?"

"Something like that." A short chuckle. "Plus, I just like the idea. Sometimes, I can be an opportunist, ya know."

She remained silent for a moment. Frankly, she'd been ill accustomed to roommates, having never shared a room as a child and often finding herself in positions where she had single housing while in the military. Moving in with Weiss and Blake came with challenges, but they'd adjusted well.

Now, however…

"I suppose we could move in together," she said, a smile curling her lips. "I don't have much in the way of personal belongings, outside of what you've bought me."

"Hey, some of that stuff is hand crafted!" She playfully corrected, then sighed- content. "We could pack up your stuff when we get back. Have you set up in no time."

"Would I have my own room?" The airship began to descend, making to land in Vacuo. They'd opted to combine the search for a carnival with Winter's desire to travel, Yang more than capable of turning the shop over to her crew for a week or two.

Silence for just a moment too long. "I mean… my bed's big and comfy. I've got room in my closet. The bathroom's attached and it has a killer tub."

As always, Yang offered her a choice while making her own thoughts known. Not an outright refusal to utilize her guest bedroom but a tempting sell on sharing the master.

"We haven't slept together."

It was both an excuse and not. Winter hadn't wanted to delve into the physical side of a relationship- somehow, she connected sex with the sort of bond that was meant to last, not one under a time limit- and Yang hadn't objected. However, with every kiss, she found herself wondering… would a little more be so wrong? A little more friction, a little more heat, a little more passion- what could they explore together, what could Yang teach her, what could she learn for herself?

"Yet." Her girlfriend offered, voice soft.

She turned her head and pressed a kiss to golden locks.

Yang had a point.


Day -126
Winter lay spent, sweat cooling on her skin and panting, listening to her girlfriend's attempts to catch her breath. Although she'd moved in upon returning to Vale a week ago, they hadn't actually done anything aside from sleep in the same bed until tonight. Not for lack of willingness, from either party; rather, it stemmed from a touch of romanticism on Yang's part, and she'd cooked a full meal that they'd shared by candlelight to build the atmosphere.

"Hey… Snowdrift?" She turned to see the wide, lazy grin on the woman's lips. "Anyone ever tell you you're a fast learner?"

A laugh burst from her chest, invigorating her for a moment to roll over, laying on her girlfriend for a moment and hovering, staring into those lilac eyes. When they kissed, it wasn't the heat from before- slow, languid, reveling in the feel of their skin pressed together, hearts slowing in tandem.

Winter hadn't been a prude before- one in the service would inevitably be exposed to carnal descriptions, either in jokes or just the complete lack of boundaries between soldiers- but she'd always discounted what she'd heard as exaggerations born of boredom and poor prioritization. Better to make it sound like a worthy investment of time than merely an aerobic exercise.

Experience, of course, gave her a new perspective. "I have a superior teacher."

Yang laughed, wrapping her arms around her, indulging in more kissing and cuddling before her expression turned downright wicked. "Just you wait. There's a lot you don't know."

Despite the promise, they both found themselves settling down after that, preparing to turn in for the night. Yet… she found herself not wanting the contact to end, not very keen on returning to their usual opposite sides of the bed sleeping arrangement. "Sundrop?"

"Do you really want to go another round?" Her girlfriend teased, lightly pushing at her hip to encourage her to move.

Which she did, rolling onto her side and watching the woman settle for bed. "No, I have a different request in mind."

"Oh?" Yang stretched her arms above her head, yawning wide and relaxing fully into the mattress. "Wuzzat?"

"May I… touch you while we sleep?" A frown touched her lips. "That's perhaps poor wording-"

"Are you asking to spoon?" She perked up, excitement replacing the mischief in lilac eyes.

"… spoon?"

Yang laughed. "C'mere, you." After a bit of shuffling, she found herself being cradled in her girlfriend's arms, Yang's forehead resting against her shoulder blade. "How's that?"

Winter breathed in deeply. "… better…"

"But?"

Her girlfriend seemed genuinely confused, and she hurried to clarify. "Is there any way… I could hold you like this?"

A hand stroked along her hip as Yang laughed. "You wanna be the big spoon, huh?" A kiss pressed to her shoulder. "I'm super okay with that."

They switched positions, allowing her to nestle among golden curls. "I'm not on your hair, am I?"

"Nah." Her girlfriend yawned, already falling asleep. "Night, Snowdrift."

"Good night, Sundrop," she replied, closing her eyes and nearly dropping off but kept awake by two mumbled words.

"Love you."

The deep breathing that immediately followed proved that the woman hadn't said them consciously, had probably meant to kept them to herself but groggily let them go.

Winter's eyes opened, watching the sliver of broken moonlight catching in golden strands as her heart swelled. Just two months of knowing each other and dating for half that… it felt like a whole other lifetime. A new life, one where she'd been able to indulge in every idle fantasy, and in that time, she'd come to believe the words herself.

"I love you, Yang." Carefully, she leaned over to press a kiss to her shoulder before settling back down.

She would say them again in the morning- as many times as she could. Avoiding love had seemed like the pragmatic answer before but now that she'd allowed herself a taste, she couldn't drink enough, and Yang made it so easy. She loved wholly and freely, let her fall as deep as she wanted, strong and steady enough to catch her but trusting enough to buckle and lean against her as well. It felt… well, like she'd always imagined. Yet, better, because Yang could be as unpredictable as a storm, as passionate as fire, and as quick as lightning.

"And I owe you an apology." She whispered into the night. "This is meaningful."

To her, at the very least.


Day -125
If Yang's reaction to waking up and hearing 'I love you' served as any indication, it was meaningful to her, too.

And Winter learned a little bit more that morning.


Day -113
Winter sat across from her sister, noting ever nervous pick at her sleeves and skittish glance. In public, perhaps she'd be so concerned about her appearance, but not in the comfort of her own home- not that she seemed comfortable in the slightest.

Weiss and Blake had taken the news about her change in living arrangements well, though a bit of guilt lingered in their expressions, and they'd seemed more at ease for a time. However, a hushed conversation between Yang and Blake the night before during a double date dinner seemed to prompt some sort of change, hence the invitation. But a pot of tea later, Winter couldn't tell what seemed to be preying on the woman.

"Weiss-"

"We didn't plan it." Their gazes met briefly before she ducked her head, drawing a steadying breath. "We weren't sure whether or not we should tell you. If it might… bother you. It wasn't intentional-"

"Weiss, I'm still not sure I know what you're talking about." She raised a brow. "You've yet to mention that part."

Her sister winced, though her lips appeared to be at war, caught between smiling and frowning. "Blake's pregnant."

Immediately, her expression brightened. "Congratulations!" Of course it stung. Frankly, it might've hurt worse two months ago. But now? She wouldn't want Weiss and Blake putting their lives on hold, waiting for her time to be up. She would never know her niece or nephew or any of her sister's children… but that didn't mean they wouldn't know her. "How far along is she?"

"We just got the confirmation a few weeks ago." Now faced with Winter's approval, Weiss glowed with happiness, smiling wide. "We're hoping for a girl. Blake's family is predisposed to them too, so there's a good chance. The morning sickness has caused a bit of an adjustment but…"

Winter smiled and listened intently, reveling in her sister's excitement.


She heard Yang come through the front door even as she set up the scroll, leaning it against a book on her desk in Yang's little tinkering room.

"Snowdrift?"

"In here!" She called, waiting for her girlfriend to find her and greeting her with a smile and a kiss. "Welcome home."

"Heh, thanks." Lilac eyes fell to the scroll. "Whatcha up to?"

"Weiss told me the happy news." She nodded towards the device and papers laid out in front of it. "I thought I'd record a message for the little one to watch when they're old enough."

"Oh." And she saw something, then, the spark of an idea that would no doubt be brought up again later. For now, it got filed away, as Yang instead smiled and nodded. "That's a really nice thought. I'll go get started on dinner while you do that."

"I could-" A sharp look silenced that offer; after her last attempt cooking dinner, she'd gotten into the habit of ordering some manner of delivery before her girlfriend got home. She'd just forgotten today. "If there's anything I can do, let me know?"

"I will." Yang started heading back towards the kitchen. "Focus on that for now."

"Right." She nodded, looking at the camera on her scroll and sighing. "Right."

Reaching forward, she started the recording, glancing at the notes she'd made to ensure she covered everything she wanted to say.

"Greetings." She paused. She sounded stiff and formal- a realization she'd come to after being around her girlfriend's much more relaxed demeanor. So, she stopped and tried again, restarting the recording. "Hello. I'm your Aunt Winter…"


Two hours later, she emerged to find Yang settled on the couch, watching some show while their dinner stayed warm in a pot on the stove.

Wordlessly, she went to her girlfriend, not bothering to announce her presence until she'd curled up beside her. Yang merely chuckled and wrapped an arm around her shoulders. "So? How'd it go?"

"I accomplished my mission," she replied with a frown tugging at her lips. "I just hope it conveys what I want it to."

"Can I watch it?" She smiled. "I can give you a one hundred percent unbiased opinion." Winter raised a brow. "Okay, ninety-five percent."

Even that number seemed too high but she relented, hoping Yang wouldn't inquire as to how many tries it took to get right. She queued up the video and held it out, watching her own countenance fill the screen.

"Hello, little one," the recording said, a small smile on her lips. "I'm your Aunt Winter and, by the time you're old enough to understand this, I'll be long passed. However, there are some things I must impart upon you before I go." Her expression turned a bit more somber then. "I'm not sure which surname you will bear when you're born, little one, but Schnee blood will still run through your veins. With that heritage comes certain standards, ways to conduct yourself, and a single rule you must follow." Her shoulders straightened, chin tilted up, eyes piercing as she continued. "As the next scion in a long proud line, you absolutely must pursue your own happiness." Every feature softened as she continued. "We're headstrong and nigh impossible to dissuade, so it's important you remain focused on the right priorities- yours. Don't bend or bow to those without your well being in mind and don't compromise yourself; believe me, you'll be stronger from surviving those who'll try to break you. I have no doubt your moms will fully support you doing so." She sighed. "And try to give your Mother some slack. Her heart's in the right place and, when you're old enough, you'll see that you'll do the same thing; being passionate and being right don't always align. It's a challenge we Schnees face: having patience and respect for others rather than just our own goals." She paused. "Or… perhaps that's just me. It's something I learned perhaps too late. My life hasn't been very long but I've managed to learn my fair share of lessons along the way. I'll pass what wisdom I have to you." Her smile pulled a little wider. "Know that you're loved, little one, even now and it will only grow with time. Know that, sometimes, it's better to ask forgiveness than permission. Know that your Mother Weiss is trying her hardest and doing an excellent job and that your Mommy Blake is much stronger and more brave than you think. Know that they didn't start out that way, that the challenges they overcame helped them become the people you see before you, and that you will grow like that, too. Know that your Aunt Yang is no doubt going to sneak you cookies before dinner and will always guard your secrets and your Aunt Ruby can literally build anything and will always look out for you. Know that you have before you untold opportunities and untested abilities. Know that the only person who will determine how far you go in life is yourself and, know, even if you stumble and stutter and fall, that your family will be there to help you back up." Her gaze deviated then. "I wish I had the time to know you. No doubt I'd love you just as dearly as the others; I already love you so much now. But if an after life does exists, I'll be your guardian angel; speak to the north wind and I'll hear you. You will never be alone." Tears gathered in her eyes but her voice remainder strong. "Play often and rest when you can. Fight when you must and try not to hold grudges. Above all else, enjoy your time, because no matter how long you have, it's going to feel far too short." Then, she saluted. "March on, little one, and hold your head high. You're a Schnee, and you've already made me so proud. Keep it up."

The video ended and Winter looked to her girlfriend holding back tears. "Yang?"

"It's good," she said immediately, scrubbing at her eyes and laughing. "It'll mean a lot. They- I think they'll really like it."

"Yang, what's wrong?" Worry colored her tone as she set aside her scroll and gathered the woman into her arms, stroking through her hair gently. "Talk to me."

After a few minutes to compose herself, she started, turning into the embrace and clinging to Winter. "It's just- my birth mom, she ran out on me, yeah? And I just- she could've done that. Left me a message, done something to let me know that I'm- that I wasn't a mistake or a waste of her time." She drew a steadying breath. "She didn't have to mean it but… it would've been nice to hear."

"Oh, Sundrop." She believed that it constituted part of the reason for the reaction, sure, but something about the way Yang wouldn't meet her eyes had her concerned there remained more to it than that. However, best to handle one thing at a time. "You're certainly not a waste of anyone's time. Please don't think that."

"I know, I know, I just- it's hard not to think about sometimes." A watery laugh. "And thanks, ya know. For calling me Aunt Yang. I know Blake's gonna ask me to be godmother and all but hearing it… you hit the nail on the head." She smiled. "This kid is gonna be loved. No doubt about it."

Winter nodded, waiting for a few moments before gently prodding. "Is there anything else on your mind?"

For a moment, she thought Yang might break. But then she just shrugged. "I dunno. I mean, I think the message is great, but I also don't think those two are the kind to stop at just one kid."

"A valid point," she replied, opting to set her concerns aside for the moment. "But I think I should eat something before I try making another one."

With that, they got up and went to fix their dinner, but Winter kept a close eye on her girlfriend for the rest of the night. Something seemed to be on her mind… but she would have to wait for it to come to bear.


Day -107
Winter made a few more videos over the week, mostly addressed to any subsequent kids Weiss and Blake might have. Her sister seemed genuinely touched she'd made them and Blake all too happy to safeguard them in the meantime, though the couple tried- in vain- to insist they wouldn't have a big family. Maybe one more, they said, but she could see the way they looked at each other and didn't doubt for a moment they'd have four or more.

But she found her attention pulled away from making more videos by Yang's odd behavior. With just a little under half her remaining time spent, perhaps it was the looming deadline beginning to prey on the woman's mind.

At any rate, it required further investigation.

The moment she heard the door open, she closed the book she'd used to preoccupy her time.

"Hey!" Yang set her motorcycle helmet down and shook out her hair. "What's up, Snowdrift? No welcome home kiss?

She offered a small smile and got off the couch. "My apologies. I'm afraid my mind's been a bit preoccupied."

"Oh?" After their kiss, Yang kept her close, hands on her hips. "Wanna share?"

"I feel like you've been acting a bit odd recently. As if you want to talk with me about something but keep refraining." She ran her hands up and down the woman's back, noticing the way her posture changed, eyes looking away, body turning as if she wanted to break contact. Yet, when Winter ducked her head, encouraged her to meet her eyes, her girlfriend didn't balk. "You can tell me anything, you know. I promise I'll listen. No judgments."

"You… really don't want to hear this." Yang mumbled, shaking her head. "It's just a stupid thought-"

"Is it important to you?" Reluctantly, she nodded. "Then it's not stupid. Regardless of my opinion on it, it's not a stupid thought. Tell me and let me form my own opinion."

This time, her girlfriend did pull away, but took one hand in hers and led her to the couch, sitting both of them down. She then took a moment and composed herself, choosing her words with care. "What if I stopped taking my birth control?"

"Why would you do that?" Of all the topics in the world, this happened to be the last one she expected they'd discuss. "Is it… making you sick or-"

"Well, aura pregnancies are pretty rare. We could leave it up to chance-"

Winter jolted, sitting up straighter and incidentally pulling away from her girlfriend. "Aura pregnancy- Yang, what are you talking about?"

She remained silent for a moment, drawing in a steadying breath before taking the plunge. "I want the chance to carry your child."

"No," she replied, instantaneous, getting to her feet and pacing. "Do you even realize what you're talking about; I've hardly three months left."

"I know that." Yang got to her feet as well, crossing her arms over her chest. "I know there's a big chance it won't happen anyway and I know that, even if I do get pregnant… you'll be gone before the baby's born… but…"

"There is no 'but' here." She shook her head. "I'm not going to leave behind a child that'll never know me-"

"They'll know you, the same as Weiss' kids." A frustrated sigh. "Look, I know it isn't what you want-"

"Don't put words in my mouth." Winter looked at her, the pain in her chest nearly crippling as those secret daydreams she'd entertained flashed before her eyes. "You don't know how badly I want a child, a family- you have no idea what this life has denied me."

"You mean what you've denied yourself." Yang's lips twisted, a bit of anger coloring her tone. "I get it, I can't understand what it's like having so little time. But you don't have to give up on everything else. There's ways around it, to try- it might mean only having a taste but it's something."

"Not now." She shook her head, waved her hand, denied as best she could. "Are you even listening to yourself? It's- it's impossible, Yang. I don't have a chance for a taste of anything- it's too late for me. I can't just leave you alone to raise our child by yourself."

"My dad did it." Her expression softened slightly. "Being a single parent… yeah, it's hard. It can be hell. But it's not impossible and at least, this way, our kid would know they're wanted, that if you could be here, you would. That- I don't think you understand how much that means. That could be enough-"

"How could it possibly be enough?" Winter sighed heavily, turning away. "Please understand, in any other life, I'd be with you. I'd- I'd marry you, I'd start a family with you, I'd be completely devoted, every moment of my life, because I would have that time to give to you. In another life, there wouldn't be any hesitation on my part."

"But this is the only life we have, Winter," she replied, crossing the room and putting a hand on her shoulder, turning her gently so their eyes could meet. "This is all the time we have. And when it's over, if all I have left of you are memories… I won't regret this, because I love you, so much it hurts and scares me. But… to have a kid, a little bit of you living on- that means something to me, too."

The words were born of a helpless sort of anger and pain but they left her lips too quickly for her to catch. "Then you're being selfish, wanting to have a child purely so you can cling to past memories."

The hand on her shoulder disappeared but Yang didn't say a word for a long moment. When she did, her voice sounded heavy with tears that wouldn't fall. "Yeah… maybe you're right."

Regret lanced through her heart. "Yang, I didn't- I'm sorry."

But her girlfriend had already turned her back, heading towards the bedroom. "I'm gonna change. Get out of these clothes. Call for pizza. I don't feel like cooking tonight."

"Sundrop, wait-" The closing of the door sounded much louder than it should've and Winter stood there, flinching at the sound.

She thought about following Yang into the bedroom- watched the door for half an hour before the pizza arrived while she debated- but ultimately decided to give the woman some space. Plus, she needed the time to properly formulate an apology; her words were harsh and unnecessary, she didn't want to hurt her girlfriend and she shouldn't have lashed out at her.

For the remainder of the night, Yang stayed in the bedroom, only leaving to grab some of the pizza. She avoided eye contact but Winter could see her puffy red eyes, the dried tear tracks on her cheeks.

Winter opted to sleep on the couch that night.


Day -106
When morning came, Winter waited in the living room for Yang to come out. She hadn't slept much, plagued by the argument from the night before, but at least she'd decided on what to say. Provided she had the chance to do so, of course.

The moment the bedroom door cracked open, she shot to her feet. "Yang-"

"I don't want to talk about it." Lilac eyes didn't even glance her way as she made a bee line for the kitchen, ignoring all else. "The conversation's over, case closed." A mirthless chuckle. "I told you it was stupid anyway."

Seeing as words would do her no good for the moment, Winter crossed the room, heading her girlfriend off before she could slip into the kitchen. She wrapped her arms around the woman's waist, pressing back to front, and rested her chin among golden locks. Her embrace wasn't so tight as to completely prevent Yang from escaping- any pressure and she'd relent- but it at least made her give pause.

"It isn't stupid," she said, her voice soft. "Before I knew how long I had, I had dreams. I wanted a wife and a family, children of my own. I wanted to raise them better than my parents raised me." Winter paused, closing her eyes and tilting her head so she could rest her forehead against the back of Yang's head. "But then I became old enough to understand how little time I had left. I wanted to be there for my children and support my wife; bereft of that, knowing I wouldn't be around to protect them… I couldn't abide it. So I put those dreams away. Until I met you." A sigh, heavy and deep. "I'm sorry for accusing you of being selfish. For the longest time, I convinced myself that it would be selfish of me to pursue those dreams, knowing I wouldn't be around to see them through. It… assuaged the regret of never trying, thinking I'd taken the nobler path… but that doesn't excuse my behavior last night. I am sorry."

Yang sighed, not quite encouraging her embrace but not breaking it either. "Apology accepted. We both got a little heated last night."

"But you were right. I did give up on those dreams." She held her girlfriend a little tighter. "What does it mean to you? Having a child?"

She turned in her arms, encouraging Winter to open her eyes. "It's an expression of love. Finding someone I love enough… that I want to see a part of me and a part of them, together. I mean- you're not entirely wrong. It is a way to hold onto the past, onto you. But it's not just you- it's both of us. Every time I look at them, I'm going to be reminded of this." Slowly, Yang drew her into a kiss- soft, sweet, and slow. "I want this part of you to live on and, in my heart, you always will. But there's a chance another part of you could live on- a part of you that's also a part of me."

"Very well." She swallowed thickly, trying to hold her emotions in check. "Make me a promise."

"Yeah?"

"Promise me they'll know." Winter did her best to keep her voice steady but it broke anyway as tears slipped. "They'll know how much I wanted to be there for them. That I love them even though I'll never know them. Promise me they'll never think otherwise."

Yang gave her a small, sad smile. "That's a promise I look forward to keeping."

A nod as Winter leaned forward, burying her face in her girlfriend's hair. And she sobbed, clinging to Yang, because in her mind, she could clearly picture it- the blonde laughing and playing with a small child with lilac eyes and white hair, both happy and content, and she so badly wished to be part of the picture.

But she never would be. As much as it hurt, it also brought a smile to her lips, because there stood a chance she could see it from whatever afterlife she'd earned for herself. And maybe, in time, before her end came, she could take solace in knowing they would carry on even after she fell.

That would be her legacy and she could ask for nothing better.

"Did you mean what you said last night? In another life, you'd marry me?"

"I'd marry you in this one if you'd let me," she replied softly between sobs.

"You still have to ask." A small chuckle and a kiss pressed against her jaw. "Even if you know I'm going to say yes."

"Do you know how many times I've dreamed of asking someone to marry me?" Winter confessed, stifling her tears long enough to draw back and look at the woman properly. "I hope you're ready."

"Hit me with your best shot, Snowdrift." Yang smiled, wider than she had in weeks. "Blow me away."