Another long chapter, and this one even more so than the last. This will be part 1 of Chapter 16 - I planned on including it all in one entry, but this was already 10k words and 23 pages, so...
Also thanks for the feedback from everyone who gave it for last chapter! I normally don't do this, but if you've got anything to say after this, or subsequent chapters, feel free to drop a review! Let me know what worked for you, what didn't, what you liked or didn't like. I hope to keep improving and make this a story worth your time!
Jaune dropped himself with a thud, the combined weight of him and his armor making the rickety chair creak. "Are you serious?!"
"This was all just some game to her?" Pyrrha echoed Jaune's exasperation. Leaning forward in her seat, head set in her hands, the weapons master laughed, clipped and hollow. "Everything we did for her…"
Weiss hadn't expected her friends to like the news. Raven had by all rights played them like a fiddle, manipulated them. They had gleaned some lessons about the world, some harsh but nonetheless necessary. Such knowledge only served to dull the feelings of being deceived.
"I don't want to say she did it all for our benefit either," Weiss argued gently before her reeling compatriots could continue. "I understand your anger, and frankly, I've half a mind to go and yell until I'm hoarse. But that isn't going to help us any, nor will refusing her offer to take the town."
Jaune's eyes widened as he looked at Weiss, staring like he'd just seen a ghost. "That town was full of bodies! How can she expect us - expect anyone to live there? It's a graveyard!"
He might not be wrong. Just because most of the carnage was localized to the town hall didn't mean the town itself wasn't a burial ground. Fortunate that negativity didn't attract Grimm, otherwise the town would be overrun by now. A small positive in all of this. Weiss drew a short breath, knocking aside her own reservations and forcing a smile.
"It's… The town itself is mostly intact, and there are resources nearby, meaning its largely self-sustaining. These people," Weiss began, gesturing vaguely to the clutter of Faunus within the camp. "They need homes. While I don't doubt they have reservations like we do I'm certain they'll agree."
"Like or not, we have nowhere we can return to either." Ren's expression turned pensive, a lone finger tapping rhythmically on his knee. The log he sat on creaked as Nora's leg continued to bounce beside him, her eyes trained on her partner. For however much she had to say herself she seemed content to leave the talking to him.
"Still, it doesn't feel right. It's as if we're squatting in their homes," Pyrrha argued, greaves scraping while her legs came together. Hands rubbing at her knees she sighed, closing her eyes while a breeze caused her ponytail to sway. "I know we need somewhere to rest, but… Is this really our only option?"
Considering they couldn't return to any major settlement without risking the Church's attention? Yes, yes it was. Without receiving an answer Pyrrha seemed to arrive at the same conclusion Weiss had, hanging her head. "I still don't like it," Jaune muttered, shaking his head.
"But you recognize it's our best option?"
Weiss wasn't overly fond of the notion of taking over the town either. It was disrespectful, not to mention posed incredible risk. Remaining in one place for too long only increased the chances of being discovered by the Church. Even if they themselves were to leave the problems didn't end there. How would the Church take these people suddenly moving in? Not well, she'd venture.
Even so, moving in was preferable to the alternative. Raven wouldn't take these people in, a sentiment that Weiss might not agree with but could understand from a logical standpoint. There were a lot of defected White Fang soldiers, nearly two dozen in all. To reasonably feed, clothe, house and potentially train them? That would be a trying task for a group twice Raven's size.
The only feasible solution then was to help resettle the displaced fighters. And why not find themselves lodging while they were at it? The idea was off putting yet Weiss couldn't deny the allure of having a roof over her head, trading a tent for the solid structure of a home.
After silence had dragged on overlong Ren rose to his feet, dusting dirt and chipped bark from his beige trousers. "If the issue is offending the people who had lost their lives then… Perhaps we can pay our respects?"
"Hey… Yeah! We could give them a sendoff!" Nora exclaimed, hopping to her feet and pumping her fists. "We'll get tons of food, music, lights! Oh, but we probably can't do a parade, huh?" Ren smiled and pat his partner's back.
"A parade might be a bit much I'm afraid."
Undeterred, Nora zipped along and grabbed up Weiss' hands with her own, the white-haired girl's crutch clattered to the ground. "Can we give them a sendoff? Can we? Please?"
Weiss drew back from her friend's enthusiasm, unable to get far with her hands in a vice. "S-Sure… Perhaps we could convince the priest Raven… Found," she lingered on the word, trying to find something more tasteful than the truth.
"Priest-shmiest! We don't need a priest for that!"
"We don't?" Pyrrha questioned, blinking owlishly. "How else will we read them their last rites?"
"Because we won't, silly! That's always sad, and we don't want to make them sad, do we?" Nora finally released Weiss' hands and gasped as she stepped back, clapping her hands together. "Oh, maybe Ren and I can do the ceremony! Can we, Renny? Can we?"
If Ren was at all put off by Nora's enthusiasm he didn't show it, chuckling as the others exchanged concerned glances. "If we must." Weiss' head tilted as her gaze demanded an explanation, one which Nora seemed so reluctant to grant them. How, or rather, why was Nora so enthusiastic about such a grim prospect?
"Where we come from, burials are handled much differently than they are here in Vale," Ren explained. "Rather than indulge in sadness, we celebrate life. Festivals honoring the dead are not uncommon Mistral's southern provinces." Bracing himself as Nora threw her arms around his neck, somehow remaining upright as she spun, he reached up and caught her elbow to hold her in place. "It's been a long time, but I think we could lead the ceremony."
Pyrrha rubbed her arm, her brow tight while a tentative smile pulled at her mouth. "It doesn't sound like a bad idea, though can we really afford such a thing? Where would we even get what we need?"
"Ren and I can go hunting! We'll get all the food!" Nora beamed while her other half seemed to wilt slightly. "We'll get fish, and deer, and squirrel, and…"
Before Nora could go on, because no doubt she would, Weiss held up a hand to stop her. "Perhaps we should ask a few others to help? Not that I don't think you two are incapable, but you'd be responsible for feeding quite a lot of people."
"Pfff, we've got this, Weiss! Renny and I are master hunters!"
"True… But perhaps a little help wouldn't be so bad?" Ren said. Nora stared at her partner before gasping, drooping in his arms dramatically and whining.
"Ren doesn't think we can hunt anymore! We're washed up!"
Knowing better than to justify her alligator tears with a response Weiss rolled her eyes. "How does that sound? We can organize this and, perhaps over the next few days, carry out the ceremony. We can pay our respects to the residents and honor them by rebuilding their homes."
Exchanging looks between themselves, Jaune and Pyrrha conversed silently. Pyrrha shook her head and Jaune motioned with his hands, conveying… Something. Weiss watched in mild amusement as Jaune's gestures grew more grandiose while Pyrrha simply emoted, smiling once her blonde partner hung his head. Was it wrong to envy that? To be able to convey so much without ever saying a word aloud.
"It… Certainly helps," Pyrrha conceded, her smile coming more easily now. Joining the others on their feet she folded her hands behind her waist, hip jutting out. "If you two need any help hunting then I would be happy to provide assistance. Or any other preparations we might need."
"I'll help too," Blake chimed in. Weiss had nearly forgotten the Meera present until now. Sat off away from the rest of them, though more by choice than reluctance, the ravenette offered Nora and Ren a slight smile. "Hunting with you two before was… Fun. I wouldn't mind going again."
Nora squealed in delight, prying away from Ren and throwing herself at Blake. Weiss winced watching them topple off, sprawling across the ground. No amount of plaintive griping would prevent the redhead from acting like an over-excited puppy. "You had fun?! Awwww, Blake! We had fun too!"
Caught between a bed of leaves and Nora's bone-crushing adoration Blake had nowhere to go. It didn't help that her arms were pinned at her sides either. "G-Get off me!" the Meera sputtered, turning her head as she received a mouthful of hair. Thankfully Ren lent a hand, prying Nora away with the help of Pyrrha.
Freed from Nora's embrace Blake picked herself up, plucking leaves from her hair. Weiss bit her lower lip, stifling a laugh bubbling in her chest with a smile. Despite their conversation with Yang being fresh, and the news of Raven's deception being fresh, her friends managed to be utter clowns. Nothing made her happier.
While Ren explained to Nora why tackling people was dangerous, Weiss stood with Blake. Their eyes met, and she happily smiled at the taller woman, touching her elbow and nodding. "I should thank you now that we have the chance. I couldn't get through to Yang myself, nor was anyone else. I think, no, I'm positive you're the only one that could get through to her, and you did."
Blake smiled back, fingers dragging the scarf down and tucking it beneath her chin. The Meera's eyes flicked in the direction of Nora's whining, overdramatic and nothing to be concerned about. Snickering as Ren carried Nora under her arms to a fallen log, Blake rolled her eyes. "I'm not so certain I did that much. And I'm convinced she still hates me."
"I wouldn't count on that."
"Hm?" Blake questioned absently.
"You convinced Yang with us, believe it or not. Your words reached her where mine couldn't." It was their shared experiences, their pain, their history that made the meeting between them so visceral. With Blake's forgiveness it seemed that Yang might finally begin to forgive herself for all she had done. How much life had she taken in the name of the Church? Weiss didn't know, and she wasn't sure she ever did wish to, but it was a start.
"Perhaps things aren't perfect between you two, not yet," Weiss added. Fingertips grazed the tip of her ears as Weiss brushed hair behind them. Things wouldn't be resolved completely, and she knew that. Like everything else in their lives as of late the relationship between Blake and Yang would be a work in progress. Unlike, say, toppling the Church, she was confident the issue could be settled within the week.
Come to think of it, what day was it? What month was it? Constant travel had left Weiss without a grasp on time, only ever truly knowing if it was night or day. She had tried to keep track upon leaving Vale city, an effort that had lasted some astounding five days. Had it been two weeks? Three? A month? Not knowing was disconcerting and annoying, yet it was also the least of their concerns.
Regardless of time passed they needn't worry overmuch. Their goals had no timeline, no strict schedule to adhere to, as much as it might have been helpful otherwise. While they hadn't needed it in reality, receiving Raven's blessing to go as they pleased gave them all the time in the world. For the first time since joining the Church five years prior their lives and time were their own. And she intended to make full use of that.
Jaune approached wearing a smile that seemed every bit as flimsy as the straps holding his armor in place. Leather and cloth frayed at the ends, strands curling up and mirroring his unkempt hair. Nicks and gouges in his breastplate that Weiss hadn't noticed before stood out the most, telltale signs of blades desperately trying to penetrate his shell. The same could be said for his bracers, shin guards and shield; Jaune was a frontline fighter and seeing marks from the toll of such a role was expected, yet Weiss felt a pinch of guilt at never having noticed them before.
"Hey… Look, I know that we need to get these people some place to live…" Jaune's petered off along with the wind that tousled their hair. For a moment he couldn't seem to decide where to place his eyes, first upon Weiss, then Blake, before ultimately settling for the brown, red and orange carpet of leaves underfoot. "Do we really have to go there, though? It feels… I don't know."
"Wrong?" Blake questioned. Jaune nodded and just behind him Pyrrha agreed with a sad smile.
"It feels no different than if we were to suddenly settle in Brand," the armor-clad redhead said. Sighing, her fingers toyed with the red sash bound about her waist, Pyrrha fumbling with it for a silent moment before meeting Weiss' gaze. "I agree with Ren and Nora's proposal for the ceremony, but to actually settle there…"
It hadn't been said yet Weiss understood what Pyrrha meant to imply. How would someone like May feel knowing someone had taken up residence in what had once been her home? If there were any survivors - Weiss hadn't seen the town hall herself and didn't know just how many had died, what would they think if they returned home only to find new faces had replaced the ones they'd known? In those senses it wasn't just disrespectful to settle, but cruel.
"Would you rather we let the village decay and vanish, reclaimed by nature?" For a second Pyrrha looked to want to say yes, closing her mouth and lowering her emerald eyes. Jaune's brow furrowed and lines form at the corners of his mouth as he frowned. Weiss sympathize with them, smiling and shaking her head, ponytail tickling the back of her neck. "I understand, truly. I'll argue though that, aside from giving them their final rites, the best way to honor the dead would be to make sure their town, their legacy doesn't die with them."
Towns came and went in the outer limits of Vale. Grimm were often the cause - and by proxy the Church, they had learned, yet it wasn't the only threat satellite settlements faced. Bandits, the weather, even the land itself could conspire against people. Ground became over tilled and infertile, disease and famine, there were countless ways which a village could meet its end.
"To not move in and let the town remain unsettled is to damn it to history, to be forgotten." Blake's kernel made Pyrrha and Jaune both hang their heads before exchanging silent glances of concern. "I'll admit I'm not crazy about it either, but I'm even less happy about letting those people's lives fade, as if they never existed to begin with."
"Yeah! We'll keep living for them!" Nora bounded over to the group, wearing a smile wide as her arms spread at her sides. Letting her limbs fall back down she offered a tamer smile, balancing on her left leg while her right swung back and forth. "It's like a forest after a fire. New life can grow where old life once existed." she then giggled. "These people will be like little saplings!"
The analogy drew a smile from Weiss and a small laugh from Pyrrha. "I suppose that's a nice way to think of this." Looking at her palm, worn leather scuffed by wielding her blade, Pyrrha closed her eyes as her smile grew. "The town is like a forge whose fuel has run low. Perhaps these people will be the coal to reignite that forge and keep its light burning."
Poetic. Out of politeness Weiss kept herself from laughing as Jaune, bless his heart, tried to offer his own take only to fumble over his words. Pyrrha allowed herself a giggle, rubbing her partner's arm, her mirth only growing as he flushed and once again trying his hand.
Allowing herself the courtesy Weiss drew a small breath, exhaling and giggling, air tickling her lips. "To think we'd be helping people start new lives. We never did this as Hunters." Ren and Nora smiled at her, then each other. Jaune grinned despite his blush and Pyrrha offered a nod, folding her hands before her waist. "I'm beginning to think defecting was the best choice we've ever made."
Still dangerous, of that there was no doubt, but the freedom that came with it meant they could do so much more. "I'm grateful," Blake chimed in, lowering her head with a smile. "Perhaps… Once word of this spreads, if it spreads, people will stop flocking to the White Fang. Maybe they'll see that we can work together."
"A marked change from your earlier beliefs." Ren meant no ill-will with his remark, merely an observation. For her part Blake merely nodded, not at all displeased to be proven wrong.
"I was shown that even Hunters can be good people. Who's to say that others can't be just like you?"
To say Weiss' heart swelled wouldn't be fair because it felt like it might burst. Most everyone present she'd known for years. Blake she'd known for a few weeks at most, Yang barely any longer. Regardless it already felt like those two were an inseparable part of their group. Part of her family. Despite her father's best efforts, she still had a family, not one of blood, but of shared experiences, trials and beliefs. She may still pine for her mother and Winter, a wanting that might never be replaced, but Weiss couldn't deny the overwhelming happiness that she carried within her. Her eyes stung, and for the first time in what felt like forever the cause wasn't doubt or sadness.
"You guys!" Nora wailed, blubbering and rubbing at her face. Grabbing Ren's sleeve and tugging him forward she motioned everyone inward. Bodies shuffled, and Weiss felt Pyrrha's breastplate press into her side, but she didn't care, just as Blake didn't seem to mind Nora bawling beside her.
Weiss' lip quivered, and she let breath escape in a laugh, head resting on Pyrrha's shoulder as she was hugged. Opposite her, Ren mirrored the gesture and allowed Nora to bury her face in his side, a smile weakening when she rubbed her face into his clothes.
Blake's ears flicked to attention and the Meera looked up with glassy eyes. Hasty footsteps and the crunch of leaves announced the approach and Weiss was surprised to see Oobleck of all people. The eccentric man's wounds no longer hindered him, a fact that probably had little to do with how out of breath he was and more how sedentary his lifestyle tended to be.
"Excuse me for interrupting what I'm certain is no doubt a very emotionally stimulating moment, but I've got news you children may want to hear!" The green haired man rattled the words out before doubling over, holding up a hand as he fought to catch his breath. Straightening both himself and his doublet out, a burgundy and gold piece with billowing white sleeves and frilled cuffs, Oobleck took a deep breath and smiled. "It is my great pleasure to announce that Miss Rose has finally woken!"
For a moment no one moved or reacted, then reactions erupted like a geyser. Nora squealed, drawing away from the group to hop up and down in place. Jaune and Pyrrha looked at Oobleck in surprise before smiling and embracing one another, separating quickly thereafter with faces red as Pyrrha's mane. Blake's eyes widened, and a hand covered her mouth, ears drooping as fresh emotion welled up.
Weiss heard Oobleck mention something more but only in passing. Ignoring her pain in her leg and leaving her crutch she ran back into camp as swiftly as she could manage. The gown she'd been given while recovering hardly hindered her, though as light as she felt she could have ran in armor and been fine.
Running past tents hastily strewn together, past groups of Branwen and former White Fang, Weiss' run felt desperate. Many she passed smiled as if knowing the reason behind her fervor, others simply moved out of her way. The way to Ruby's tent was clear, a wind blowing through kicking up leaves and causing them to twirl and dance. She paused briefly to catch her breath and was surprised to find her leg didn't burn, as if saying it wouldn't try to hinder her any longer. Looking ahead towards the tent Weiss marveled in the moment how bright everything seemed, how the ground came alive as sunlight set the forest floor ablaze. Apparently even the sun was thrilled by the news.
When Weiss arrived at the tent a healer and their assistant were just on their way out. An older man whose profession clashed with the blades at his hips, he nodded his head and stepped aside. Salt and pepper hair pulled back into a bun bobbed along with the gesture as turned his attention to the tent. "She's just woken up, so try not to startle her."
Weiss hardly had the patience and offered a quick nod before excusing herself. Peeling back the tent's door her eyes adjusted to the change in lighting quickly, natural light flooding in behind her. Qrow noticed her first, the unshaven face of the man confused, though undoubtedly brighter than she'd seen last. He nodded to his right, gesturing for Weiss to enter.
Yang's back was to her though not out of spite. The blonde was busying herself with Ruby, chatting animatedly about one of her adventures. Something about cajoling a group of Beowolves and riding one through the forest, a tall tale reminiscent of Nora's antics. With exaggerated gestures and comically bad sound effects she told her tale, spurred on by Ruby's laughter and equal enthusiasm.
Finally realizing someone else had entered her tent Ruby let her eyes drift towards the door. She saw Weiss standing there, hands over her mouth and pools of blue quickly beginning to shimmer. After staring for only a second Ruby grinned as widely as her face would allow without splitting, waving emphatically. "Weiss! Hi!"
Despite a near death experience and no doubt a grievous scar to show for it Ruby seemed every bit as nonchalant as ever. Her response was so perfectly Ruby that Weiss couldn't help but laugh, conflicting emotions twisting the sound.
Black hair with streaks of red stood on end every which way, the back of Ruby's head resembling the rear end of a duck. After three days of sleep and countless sessions of healing she looked healthier than before: a lack of blood and visible wounds helped. Bandages bound tightly around Ruby's midsection and chest, both for medical and modesty purposes. A warm, heavy robe hung from her shoulders, red and gold patterns cascading down from the neck to the sleeves, disappearing along with Ruby's lower half under a heavy bed. It distinctly reminded Weiss of something like what Raven wore.
"Hey Weiss? You okay?"
Weiss nodded and felt something upon her lip, looking at her fingertips after wiping it away and finding tears. Nodding again to reassure Ruby's growing look of concern she forced a smile and wiped her face with the heels of her hands. "Fine, I'm… Fine," she breathed, inhaling and smiling wider.
Ruby returned her smile easily and held open her arms. For a moment Weiss stood still, unsure whether to accept it or not. All it took was a smile from Yang and she cleared the space with two steps, careful as she lowered herself and hugged Ruby. Her hold was weak, weaker than it should be, yet the warmth of her friend hadn't changed one bit. Taking delight in the embrace Weiss felt breath tickle her cheek as Ruby sighed, clinging to the robe that hung from the brunette's shoulders.
It was an embrace that she could have lingered in for far longer, but when Ruby coughed and rubbed her chest Weiss immediately released her. Slight discomfort flashed across her face before Ruby's smile returned, giggling and rubbing the back of her head. "I guess I got pretty hurt, huh…?"
That was an understatement. Weiss giggled in turn and sniffled. "You absolute dolt…"
Outside the tent Weiss caught the healer demanding someone wait, then shout as he was pushed aside. Nora was the first to burst inside the tent and despite her obvious desire to she didn't throw herself upon Ruby. Instead she slipped past Weiss and took up her hands, flashing teeth as she bounced on her toes. "You're awake! That officially makes today the best day ever!
Ruby laughed, a sound that widened Nora's already impossibly large grin and made her join in. Feeling someone just behind her Weiss smiled back at Pyrrha and Jaune, thankfully the pair had enough wherewithal not to crowd Ruby, though they no doubt wanted to. Nora vibrated with delight and likely never would have backed off if not for Ren's gentle calling, giving Ruby a restrained hug before skipping to her partner's side.
Jaune and Pyrrha exchanged hugs with Ruby, neither lingering too long. As delightful as all of this must be it was no doubt taxing for the brunette. Three, nearly four days of unconsciousness while recovering from a gruesome wound would take it out of anyone. Ruby didn't mind though, and if she did she hid her reservations fabulously. When she parted ways with Ren and looked around the room only then did Ruby seem to show any sign that something was amiss.
"Where's Blake…?"
Weiss and the others all looked back to the entrance as if expecting Blake to be waiting there. She wasn't, nor were the healer and his assistant. Surely, she'd come along with the rest of them? "She was behind us a moment ago," Pyrrha observed, the weight of her armor causing it to clink as she shifted.
Needing no prompt Weiss left the tent, scanning the immediate area. It didn't take long to spot the Meera, her black and gray attire stark against the vibrant forest. Glancing back into the tent she offered a smile, raising a finger and joining Blake at her post. The ravenette looked up from the ground briefly, ears flicking before turning her head.
"Blake, you can come in too. You have every right to see Ruby as the rest of us." Weiss frowned when a shake of the head was her reply, saddened by how dejected Blake seemed. "If you're concerned about Yang she isn't going to keep you from Ruby. You're free to visit her."
Boots scraped against bark while Blake shifted her weight, one foot propped up against the trunk. "That's… Not it. I'm not worried about Yang."
"Well then come on in and say hello. I'm positive Ruby wants to see you, too."
Encouragement fell flat, and Weiss frowned while Blake busied herself with one of her fingerless gloves. Pulling at the strap at her wrist Weiss prodded again, gently. What was keeping her from visiting Ruby, someone she so clearly cared for?
"There's… A lot I want to say to her," Blake said after a moment's silence. Her voice was low, and Weiss could hear the strain in it, forcing down whatever emotions that wanted to risE.
"Then come in and talk to her? No one is going to mind if you need to speak with Ruby," Weiss smiled as she spoke. "It's not as if we're monopolizing her attention."
"It's not something I want to discuss in front of everyone." Blake's cheeks darkened slightly. "Um… Especially not Yang," she added, smiling awkwardly.
"Oh?" Weiss tilted her head and watched Blake begin to fidget, blush progressively becoming worse. Something clicked in her mind and her eyes widened, pale cheeks gaining a burst of color. "Oh!"
Thank goodness Pyrrha poked her head out of the tent when she did otherwise Blake may have passed out. She seemed concerned, nearly coming out herself until Weiss waved her off, silently ensuring everything was okay. Maybe 'okay' wasn't right - it wasn't bad, though it certainly made things more… Interesting.
"Ruby is asking after you, she… Seems upset you're not there." The news troubled Blake, pulling her scarf up to cover her mouth and nose both. Torn between giving in and lingering longer, Weiss assumed. Grazing Blake's sleeve with her fingertips Weiss gave the fabric a gentle tug, nodding back towards the tent. "You could always just give her a hug and speak to her later. I imagine nothing would make her happier."
Ruby seemed to love unconditionally. If in some hypothetical scenario they encountered Adam again and the chance presented itself, she could see Ruby forgiving him. To anyone else it was ludicrous. Even as Weiss considered the impossible she still entertained it because such a deed wouldn't seem out of place for Ruby. Whatever notion of guilt Blake might be harboring then seemed middling.
With the bridge of her nose and above the only things visible Weiss could still see the conflict inside. Blake's brow creased, eyes locked on the tent before drifting away, snapping back a moment after. Pushing herself off the tree the Meera sighed, feline ears flat.
"She won't mind…?"
"Considering how everyone is clamoring for her attention right now? I think a simple hug will be welcome." Weiss laughed and smiled once she saw the corners of Blake's eyes curve, cheeks rising. It may be half-hearted, her smile, but the Meera seemed a bit more convinced. "She's awake and safe, there's no rush. Let's go see her, then you can talk later, when you're comfortable."
Blake weighed the proposal, toes grinding into the dirt as though trying to extinguish something. Perhaps her guilt. After silence hung in the air for a moment Weiss heard a muffled sigh and Blake conceded at last. "Just a hug… I don't think I can manage much else."
"That's fine. Do whatever you're comfortable with," encouraged Weiss. She offered to take Blake's hand, a show of support, and retracted it when the Meera politely turned her down. "Ruby will be happy just to see you. It doesn't take much to make her smile, after all."
Whatever words Blake had struggled with could wait until later. Ruby wouldn't wilt and wither as a flower might when left to dry, she'd survive if Blake decided not to visit. The Meera let out another sigh before rubbing her nose through her scarf, slowly approaching the tent with Weiss immediately behind her. As expected their arrival was noticed immediately, and no one seemed more thrilled by it than Ruby herself.
"Blake!" Ruby's smile lit up the room more than the sunlight could ever hope to. When Blake still hesitated Ruby opened her arms, accepting and unabashed in her enthusiasm. With a gentle push Weiss sent the ravenette along with a nod, elated to watch the two friends embrace. Blake's shoulders trembled, and Ruby tightened her hold, rubbing the Meera's back and whispering something that missed their less-acute ears.
Weiss might be looked to lead them as the brains of… Whatever this was. They trusted her plans, her insight and to follow her lead, but she hardly held the group together in the same way Ruby did. Somehow despite her social shortcomings Ruby always seemed to be the centerpiece of their group of friends, almost like a little sister to everyone. Normally Weiss would be agitated by a deficiency in her character. How could she be upset though? There was no being jealous of Ruby, not when what she offered was so wholly unapologetic and sincere. If anything, Weiss was grateful it hadn't been taken from them.
Before long the tent filled with the voices of her friends talking over one another, all attention focused on the girl of the hour. Ruby didn't seem to mind in the least as a permanent smile cemented itself on her face, laughing and doing her best to answer everyone. Yang ended up playing security before long, muscling her way between Nora and Ruby when the former tried to sneak in another hug. Everyone was happy, as it should be. Gods know they'd been through enough to deserve this.
Weiss glanced at the hand upon her shoulder, following along and meeting Qrow's eyes. He smiled, though not anywhere near as brightly as anyone else in the room. Lips moved and he said something yet for the life of her she couldn't make it out, not over the voices of her friends. Leaning in instead she felt her nostrils burn as the scent of liquor reached them, wrinkling her nose.
"We need to talk, kiddo. Got a sec?"
Realistically? Yes, she had nothing but time now. That didn't mean she had any desire to leave. Weiss watched as Ruby beamed while Jaune and Pyrrha began to share their own story of their battle in the manor, silver eyes wide and feet bouncing excitedly beneath the blanket. They were all having so much fun. Amazing how quickly their moods turned around.
"If we must," Weiss conceded. Qrow nodded, sparing his niece one last glance, his smile growing before he wiped it away. With the tent still wide open he slipped outside without a word, hands tucking into his pockets, slouching over. Weiss gave her bedridden friend one final smile before following suit.
Even as they began to walk away from the tent her friend's voices could be heard, every bit as joyous as they were loud. Her smile didn't leave until the sound began to fade, wandering through the middle of camp alongside Qrow. "Would you mind telling me what it is we need to discuss?"
Qrow merely shrugged, ignoring her irate scoff and rolling his neck. As tall as he was, long as his legs were, Weiss had to hasten her step just to stay in stride. Thank goodness her leg had finally agreed to stop harassing her. "We gotta meet Rae first. Figured now's a good a time as any."
Raven? Weiss quirked an eyebrow, wondering silently what the woman needed now. Cutting through camp she began to recognize certain spots along the forest. A tree trunk where Blake's blade had struck, a barren patch where Ruby's speed had disturbed resting leaves, stripping bare a path. Before them the ground rose up to greet them, and further along, atop the hill stood the manor. Weiss felt her stomach sink as unpleasant memories came back in an instant. "Must we really go in there…?"
Qrow finally came to a stop, voice like gravel as he chuckled. From his pocket he pulled free his flask and took a swig, offering it to Weiss, an offer she instantly rebuked. "Raven says you're the one who can read runes and junk, and there's something you gotta see down below. Said it's real important and wants you to see for yourself. It's uh..." He smiled and scratched at his jaw, the sound of his beard like a blade dragging across glass. "Well, you'll see. You aren't gonna like it."
/+/+/+/+/+/
Between blood loss and panic, Weiss hadn't seen much of the manor on her way out before. When she and Qrow crested the hill and stopped at a familiar stone wall she paused for a moment, catching her breath and surveying the damage caused by their fight. First floor windows had been blown out, pieces of the wall missing, splintered outward. Along the lawn, both within and outside of the wall lay exposed earth, turned up and torn asunder by spells. The wall itself didn't fare much better in places, chunks of stone and mortar thrown around, cracked and seared by residual magic. The second floor fared better though Weiss was sure it only appeared so from the outside.
"We didn't cause this…" Moving closer to the wall Weiss ran her fingers over crushed stone, inspecting the fine powder upon her fingertips before watching as the wind scooped it up and carried it away.
"Nah, that'd be Raven's handiwork mostly," Qrow muttered, his mouth obscured from his flask. Weiss watched as he finished half the contents in a single go, grimacing as she thought about just how intoxicated he'd be soon. "Lawn's my bad though. Tried holding back."
He had tried to restrain himself? Weiss made her way to one of the fissures, a tear that stretched twice as long as she was tall, at least. It was deep too, deep enough she might fit inside if she were to crouch. The scar, despite being cleaved into earth, was remarkably clean around the edges, the dirt darker than what had been exposed, grass upturned and singed. Come to think of it she hadn't ever seen Qrow's magic, had she? Her only experience with him in combat had been Ludlow and she'd been far too occupied to see anything then.
"Come on, Ice Queen. Raven's waitin' still." Qrow pocketed his flask and, rather than go through the manor's gates, continued past them, keeping the wall to his right. "And if we take any longer she'll complain until the moon rises."
Weiss looked to the manor once more before hurrying after Qrow. "My name is Weiss, you know. Weiss."
A hoarse chuckle met her ears and Qrow lazily waved over his shoulder. "I don't care."
"You obnoxious…" Nails digging into her palms Weiss let out a huff, picking up the pace. Her leg no longer seemed to hinder her, and she couldn't say why, nor was she going to question it. A little tenderness each time her foot met the ground wasn't going to impede her. "Why are you here, exactly?" she questioned. "I thought your loyalty was with the Church. With Ozpin."
She had doubted Qrow's ability as a Hunter at first. He presented himself as a drunk - he still did, and a man who seemed to shirk responsibility and duty both. She'd been humbled in Ludlow, yet everything else she'd seen still supported her first impression. Even now he went for his flask before pausing, for once thinking better of it.
"It was, yeah." Qrow shrugged nonchalantly, his hands digging into his pockets. "Just like yours was."
Not missing a beat Weiss quickened her pace, finally managing to match the taller man's stride. "Then Raven and Oobleck have changed your mind? You're against Ozpin now?" When no answer came and Qrow refused to answer she looked around, hands tapping at her sides, venting frustration with a silent exhale. "Are you with us, or are you against us?"
"I'm here, aren't I? That should tell you whatever you wanna know, kiddo."
"It doesn't though! For instance, why were you here to begin with? Did you follow us? What's your reason –" Weiss squeaked and stumbled back when Qrow came to an abrupt halt before her. Rubbing at her nose she looked up at the man, narrowing her eyes while he smiled. "Forgive me if I'm wary, but we seem to have a habit of being betrayed and used. I like to know where our associate's allegiances are."
Raven seemed to be on their side, barely. Her penchant for manipulation and scheming hardly made her the most trustworthy of sorts. Oobleck too, though his story, Weiss assumed, was a little easier to discern. Qrow however? "A man of your advanced status should have known the truth long ago. There's no way you could have been operating in the dark like we were."
"I was though," Qrow deflected, scratching at his neck with a huff. "I mean, I knew a bit more than you kids, but not much. Oz had me sold on the whole 'necessary evil' thing. Sure, sometimes we might put folks at risk, but we were there to fix whatever problems we made, too. It wasn't like we'd spawn Grimm and leave."
Indignant, Weiss' jaw dropped before she threw her arms to her sides. "You knew?! That's just grand, fantastic! No, that's perfect!" Scoffing loudly, she began to walk away, doubling back and pointing up at Qrow. "Ludlow. You knew at Ludlow then?" He nodded. "And still you said nothing? All those Grimm we fought…"
"The White Fang caused that, not us. Blame those bastards if you're pointing fingers."
"I most certainly will not! You not only willingly endangered me, but Lupa, Violet and Dalia!" Weiss stepped closer before a hand clasped over her head, pushing it down and forcing her back. Qrow put a finger on her lips and shushed her, swatting his hand aside with a glare. "Don't you shush me!"
"We aren't here to play the blame game, alright? We can stand here all day if you want and chat, or we can get our butts in gear and see what Raven's got for us." Qrow gave her a choice but began to walk again, making it clear what his own decision was. Weiss hesitated for a brief pause before following him again, catching the smirk on the Hunter's face. "Thatta girl."
With the manor now squarely behind them Weiss tried to guess where they were going. A faint path wove its way into the trees beyond the western edge, weaving like a serpent. Exposed soil was hard as stone as they wandered along, well-traveled and often used. "Where exactly are you taking me?" she demanded after a few moments silence.
"Someone's awfully bitchy today," Qrow mused.
"Pardon you?!"
"Relax, alright? I get it, there's loads of stuff going on and now that you're away from your friends you can finally let loose, right?" Weiss blinked before averting her gaze, teeth ground together. "I'm not takin' it personally, you know. I did my fair share of complainin' when Raven and Oobleck dumped this stuff in my lap, too. Difference is I've had time to think about it."
Twisting to the right the path sliced downhill, carved into rock. On Weiss' left a tree sat precariously in stone, roots twisting and splitting rocks to anchor themselves tight. A burrow sat nestled beneath the roots, and for a moment she saw a small animal scurry inside, disappearing further into its den. Hearing the faint trickle of water, she looked ahead to a small stream that intersected the path, muddying patches of ground as it went. Qrow stepped over it easily, Weiss needed a small leap.
"Perhaps you're right," Weiss conceded, running a hand back over her ponytail. Things had been moving rapidly since she'd woken up and even now they continued to move. In front of her friends she fought to maintain a sense of calm for their sake but now, alone with Qrow, she'd found an excuse to unleash some of her frustrations. "I apologize for my outburst."
"Eh. Like I said, not takin' it personal. I'd be more worried if you weren't a bit crabby."
A sensation she hadn't realized she'd been ignoring sat heavily in her lungs, a breath that refused to be released. Weiss smiled, barely, inhaling and exhaling. Nerves threatened to snap, strands of thread wound too tight, and the urge to scream just to release some of it was growing. Qrow wouldn't begrudge her and honestly, she could care less if he did. Still, she allowed herself to breathe, closing her eyes before shaking her head.
"Even so, I apologize…" It was unbecoming for her to yell at Qrow, particularly when he wasn't to blame. Yes, he'd withheld information, but he'd not done so with malicious intent. When Qrow began to laugh she stared at him, every bit as confused as she was offended. "What's so funny?"
Qrow snorted and covered his mouth with his arm, waving a hand. Snickering, he glanced back at Weiss and flashed her a knowing grin. "You. You really are a Schnee, aren'tcha?"
"And what's that supposed to mean?"
Shoulders shaking, Qrow laughed again and shook his head. "Nothing, Ice Queen. You just remind me of someone, that's all."
Feeling a vein throb in her forehead Weiss wondered if she could reach out and trip the man. Considering he had to be intoxicated by now it shouldn't be too difficult. How satisfying it would be to see him faceplant. "You still never did say why you were here," she said instead, taking the high road. "Were you searching for Oobleck? For Raven?" Qrow shook his head, his laughter ceasing. "Us?"
"Nah. Not you guys." Qrow then paused and sighed while rubbing at the back of his head. "I was here for Ruby and Yang. Not the rest of you, just them."
Trying not to feel offended at being excluded Weiss nodded. "You intended to run away with them, then? Take them somewhere safe?" Qrow didn't answer immediately and Weiss saw his jaw tighten. He went for his flask once more, container lingering at his lips before he sealed it and tucked it away once more.
"Not exactly, no."
"Then what?" Weiss pressed. Curiosity compelled her to find out, especially now that Qrow seemed so visibly tense.
"Oz sent me out here to find you guys, alright? Sent me and had some other Hunters ready to join up. We weren't supposed to bring any of you back though." As if going through puberty a second time Qrow's voice broke at the end. Clearing his throat, he chuckled, and when Weiss met his eyes again a chill raced through her. "We were sent to kill you."
The look in Qrow's eye made Weiss halt in place. The tension in her chest returned, though it was of a different variety than before. Suddenly she was acutely aware that she didn't have Myrtenaster on her person. Not that she thought it would have done much good. Recalling how the ground was torn asunder by Qrow's strikes she doubted anything she could create, runes or otherwise, would stand a chance. The look he gave her, the dullness of his eyes, she could only describe it as killing intent. And it terrified her.
"But… Obviously that ain't happening. Oz thought I'd go along with it…" Qrow began to walk again and Weiss took a moment to do the same. Her feet felt like they were cast in cement, and only once Qrow stopped and looked at her expectantly did she realize she'd been holding her breath. Releasing it in a gasp she swallowed, following along again. The look was gone, thankfully, but she shivered regardless.
"I guess that's why he sent those other guys with me though, figured I'd probably flake, wanted to keep me honest. And hell… If Raven hadn't found me when she did, cut us off, I probably woulda had to go through with it." Qrow spat, saliva mixed with liquor staining a gray slate along the path.
Once Weiss' mind got over the temporary fright she realized the look hadn't been intended for her, but one borne of contempt for what he'd been told to do. For Ozpin. "He ordered you to kill your own nieces…?"
"Yeah. Said it was for the greater good. Know what? Any greater good that has family killin' family isn't something I want part in."
Had that stopped him before though? Yang had killed for the Church for much the same reason. Someone as strong as Qrow? Surely, he'd done the same. Rather than point out the hypocrisy though Weiss simply nodded, content to let the conversation end there. At least now she understood why Qrow had turned sides so suddenly, and perhaps to another extent, why he'd been actively avoiding everyone since his arrival.
"Don't tell 'em what we talked about, alright?" Qrow dragged Weiss out of her thoughts and was looking at her expectantly. She gave a simple nod in understanding, offering a slight smile in return for his own. "Thanks, kid. I'll… Tell them myself once some of this stuff has blown over. I don't keep secrets from people."
"Nor do I," Weiss agreed. Secrets were for people with something to hide. People like the Church. Like Ozpin. They were better than that. They would always be better than that.
Uncertain how to follow up such a topic Weiss let silence fall between them, something Qrow didn't mind one bit. With nothing but the sounds of the forest to occupy them Weiss listened as they strolled along, to the sounds of birds singing, their notes high and ringing clearly. Whenever wind would crash through the forest seemed to grow silent, drowned out by the seismic ruffling of dozens of canopies. Hidden away from the sun Weiss noticed the air was becoming cooler despite being midday. A mosquito buzzed by her ear, loud as a buzzsaw, and she swat it away more than once.
Not long afterwards the ground began to level itself out once more. Trees thinned, and when Weiss tore her eyes away from a splendid pair of bluebirds nestled high above she saw a wall of rock rising to greet them. Eyes drifting upwards she followed along where stone turned to soil, vines and clumps of grass hanging off the nearly sheer drop. Dozens of feet above the ground seemed to level out, and after a moment gaining her bearings she realized they were still near the manor, only several times below ground level.
I suppose ground level is wherever the ground is, she mused absently, following closely behind Qrow. Where is he taking me? Does he ever plan on saying where? Voicing her thoughts aloud the senior Hunter didn't answer. He didn't need to. Just around the bend where barren soil and rock collided like surging vanguards, the wall of rock seemed to collapse in on itself. Weiss could hear the whistling of wind within, and as they drew closer she peered into the long, carved out corridors of a tunnel. Somewhere just out of sight she heard water running, most likely from an underground reservoir.
"This is where you carried us out of before, isn't it…?" Though foggy she had recollection of this place. Being lifted like a doll, chewed on by a Grimm and bloodied. Qrow had gone well ahead of them if memory served, with Raven and company carrying her, Yang and Blake out shortly thereafter. Stepping closer to the cave's entrance she placed her hand on the chilled stone, running her palm over the surprisingly smooth surface.
"Beats taking that ladder inside, don't trust that thing one bit," Qrow mumbled to himself. Weiss tilted her head in question but went unnoticed. After looking around to make certain they hadn't been followed Qrow went into the cave itself, quickly disappearing in the dark. "Hurry up, kid," he shouted back, voice bouncing off the walls, "You don't wanna get lost in here."
Weiss hurried after the man, eyes straining to adjust. A few steps in and enough natural light managed to seep through, enabling her to see. A dozen or so later and natural light failed to reach them any longer. Looking back, she could still see the outside world, but it seemed that the light itself had no desire to join them. Thankfully torches burned along the walls, the orange glow a welcome sight in near pitch. "Keep along the wall," Qrow called back some distance ahead, "And watch your step. Whoever made this path was blind."
Nodding dutifully, she did as she was told, hand grazing stone, as much a guide as it was a comfort. The sound of water crashing down grew louder the further in they advanced, and after a few minutes of walking she realized a constant stream ran along the tunnel to her right. Torches cast enough light that she could look around, taking a pause to appreciate the flowing body of water slicing through the tunnel. While not overly deep - she could see the ground beneath clear water, it ran fast enough that she'd be swept up in seconds. Best not to fall in then.
Eventually the tunnel began to grow lighter, and while the sound of a waterfall drowned out anything Qrow might have said Weiss felt confident enough to advance without him. Larger torches than the ones lining the corridor burned beyond where she stood, little more than fireflies in the massive, cavernous space. Below the water from the river exploded, throwing mist that kicked back in her face and made her sputter. Wiping her face on her sleeve Weiss found the carved stone steps she knew to be there, taking one at a time, minding how slippery they were.
Across the river she knew there was the ladder she and Yang had jumped down just days ago. She still had to thank her friend for giving her a heart attack. A bridge, just as memory served, provided the only means of crossing the vicious flow beneath. Weiss passed by those with little more than a thought, following standing torches to the front of the temple.
Grandiose, the temple could easily rival Vale's Grand Cathedral in majesty, and if not for the roof of the cave it might be every bit as tall. Small groups gathered outside the temple itself, sorting through containers of Dust and separating them by element. It seemed that Raven would be making good use of what the White Fang had left behind.
Weiss greeted whoever saw fit to do the same with a slight nod of her head. Taking the stairs inside she finally had a chance to appreciate the workmanship that had gone into creating the structure. Marbled steps, sporting a few cuts and chips, carried her along. She could imagine crowds of people taking the same route she was now every day, funneling themselves into the inner sanctum. Trunk-like pillars flanked the stairs and two statues resembling a type of beast she'd never seen stood as sentries, their eyes unblinking, ever on guard.
Certainly, didn't do much to prevent the White Fang from getting inside. Or us.
The foremost inner chamber and perhaps the largest was exactly as she remembered it. Large enough to be an assembly hall the room housed several pillars which supported a tall, flat roof. Scoring the pillars and tiled floor were countless burns and cuts, signs that their battle within hadn't been a terrible dream. Weiss passed a few more of Raven's people, a Dimuran who busied himself with recording details on the small murals which lined the walls.
Weiss slowed to a stop, nausea and nerves forming an unpleasant brew inside. Nearby several tiles, stone formerly white, was darkened by crimson streaks. A puddle gathered and covered nearly all of one, and a long trail led away from the puddle. She'd tried to drag herself once freed of the Grimm only to collapse within seconds. At the time she thought she could manage yet looking at it now it was obvious just how far, and how futile her effort had been.
Benches which had served as pews lined the outer walls, pushed aside to make allowance for the White Fangs improvised explosives. Now the benches had been moved into clumps, making space for Raven's people to inspect the murals. Nothing was being left untouched, it seemed.
Including the large puddles of crimson along the stairs. Weiss stopped once more when she came face to face with crusted stains, and while the smell of iron had long since faded she swore she could taste it in the air. Though she wanted to look away her eyes were refusing to obey, locked on the very spot where Ruby had nearly bled out. Blood formed a neat pool on one spot, splattered in others. Several steps below there were smaller, more dispersed pools. The place where Blake had laid while Ruby clung to life.
"Hey, you comin' or what?"
Weiss finally tore her gaze from the steps and saw Qrow at the top. His face was scrunched slightly, no doubt recalling the very same unpleasant images that now haunted Weiss. Forgoing the bloodied steps, she joined Qrow at the upper level, following him into the innermost chamber. More blood painted the floor, a visible trail where someone had staggered out. Further within there were intermittent patches yet nothing near as gruesome as what Weiss had already seen.
"There you are. I was wondering when you'd show up." Letting her eyes roam from the dried patches Weiss found Raven at the head of the room. "You're familiar with runes, right?"
Weiss nodded. "Come here then," the Branwen matriarch waved her over, putting her back to Weiss and Qrow once more. Her robe was down, at least the top half of it, hanging from her waist and exposing her shoulders and back. Bandages wrapped around her chest and bound her breasts in place, though that was hardly what Weiss found herself transfixed by.
Black scales covered much of Raven's back, heaviest around her hips, no doubt to protect the kidneys. A strip of scales acted as a sheath for her spine, flaring out at the waist and meeting the clusters along her hips, and again at her shoulders, wrapping around and rising up along her neck. Small spikes protruded from her skin, two behind her shoulder blades, and several others along her back, symmetrical. Weiss couldn't help but notices the scores of scars and old wounds across her body as well, wondering what the story behind them was.
The wall opposite the entrance stood as a work of art, one that had somehow managed to survive the passage of time and the White Fang's meddling both. Stretching from corner to corner the mural was, to put simply, astounding. Weiss had no doubt that it told a story, not unlike the engravings that she'd seen in the temple at Brand. A story, she reminded herself, created by the people who had worshipped the Seraph. Temples like these were vestiges of days gone, when a supposedly magnificent race had managed to undermine the Church's authority on Remnant.
"What am I supposed to be looking at, exactly?" Weiss asked, eyes leaving the mural to question Raven. There were images aplenty and runes ran parallel to the top and bottom of the walls.
"Look the whole thing over. I want you to come to your own conclusions." Raven stepped back and sat upon a discarded crate, folding one leg over the other. Qrow, stood nearby and leaning against a wall, nodded for her to go ahead.
"I'd hoped you'd have done most of it for me," Weiss grumbled, nodding to herself. Moving to the leftmost corner she began to inspect each detail, giving painstaking effort to not brush over anything, even the most miniscule of marks. The mural told a story, as she'd suspected, and the runes that created a border around it offered an explanation, if a vague one.
Deciphering the piece in its entirety would take time, and as much as Weiss wanted to just return to her friends above, Raven and Qrow were intent on her seeing this through. With a sigh of resignation, she settled in and continued her work. "Settle in, I suppose. This will take me awhile."
"Take your time, kid," Raven dismissed, smiling as she folded her arms. "We're not going anywhere until you're done."
Fantastic.
Before I get it in a review, I know this left off on a real blueball/cliffhanger, and I apologize. As I said though this was already a VERY long chapter, and what I ended up leaving out was at least another ten pages worth of material. It's still coming, don't worry, I'm just shifting around pieces so it doesn't end up being so much in one go.
Thank you all so very much for taking the time to read and have a wonderful day/night/whatever time! Until the next entry!
