Chapter Fifteen
She hated being right.
The rest of the week passed by in a flash, but it was like she told Ozpin. Ashe's reputation rose through the ranks, and not for a good reason. It all started with a few whispers here and there about her very first spar. At first, no one believed the rumors about the incident. After all, Beacon is a place of fun and academics that students could spend their youth. They were safe here. The professors and huntsman would protect them as they trained and readied themselves to face the world.
But that will not always be the case, and Ashe did not hold back. Not like it was difficult. Apparently, it was a challenge to rile her up. The next day during Goodwitch's class, her competitor did not get the memo about calling her 'adorable'. She didn't even get his name before he was unable to speak. A quick chop to his throat made the silence all the better. You would think the beating afterwards would make the other students wary and frightened.
You would be half-right.
For the most part, the students were split into two categories by the end of the week. There was the faction that was terrified of her. Avoiding her like the plague and mocking Ashe behind her back. She wanted to say they whispered it, but they never tried to hide their insults.
At least till the Nora incident.
Word quickly spread to never insult and mock her within Nora's presence. The damage to the hallway was horrendous. A broken leg or two may have also been involved, but she's not quite sure. Glynda was not a happy cookie about the work pile up in the renovations. Nora of course, got into a pickle with the amount of detention she was to be assigned. Nora was a frenzied, panic monster about when her punishment was to take place. It had not even been a day when she barged up into Ozpin's office to question Ashe about it after school.
"Mm?" Ashe chomped down on a piece of cheese at her work desk in Ozpin's office. She was left to her own devices when Nora approached her at wits end. "I don't see any documents about your punishment. I suppose it was 'misplaced'." Ashe looked up toward Nora with a crooked grin. "Guess there's nothing for you to worry about."
Ashe never saw the Nora torpedo launching over her small desk. Thankfully, Nora was incoherent in a rapid session of her appreciation. She never heard Ashe's squeak when she was smothered onto the ground. Neither will Ashe ever acknowledge it in the first place. Of course, the flying and scattering paperwork was an annoyance. But she didn't mind it just that once.
The other faction was the more eccentric and daredevil students. They were the opposite of the first, obviously. They saw her more as a challenge and measuring stick. Don't ask her why, she's not sure herself. While they do not mock her, they annoy her the most. She is constantly being hounded by this faction to fight and train with them. Which she wouldn't mind as much, if people wouldn't badger her so much about it. But there was one person who stood out the most in her persistence.
"I'm the Yang! Let's fight!"
If she must hear that phrase one more time this week, she's going to end up stabbing someone. She already has, but who's counting? Which reminds her, Professor Peach's lecture the next day was about stab wounds. Sick sense of humor that woman has. Also, Pyrrha was looking exceptionally giddy for some reason. She would beam a smile when catching Ashe's gaze, like she was looking forward to something. Ashe couldn't help but shiver at times, like she was forgetting something.
She will figure it out later, Friday quickly made its debut and the day went mostly the same. Lectures and notes, being dragged around by Nora, lunch and gutting another milk carton, just another day at Beacon. Thankfully, Ozpin gave her some space during her after-school gig. The tension passed and they soon returned to normal by the end of the week.
By the time Ashe made it back to her dorm room, she found a familiar cloaked figure leaning against the wall. Approaching Ruby, the girl offers a tiny wave with a kick of her foot. "Um, Hey, how are you?"
"I am well, for the third time today." Amused Ashe.
With a sheepish chuckle, Ruby tilts her head to the side in embarrassment. "Ah-haha, yea, sorry. I just wanted to come by and ask if you received my message a few days go. I never got a response back."
With a thoughtful look, Ashe stares toward Ruby who shuffles upon her feet. Realization soon dawns upon her face while walking into her dorm. "Oh, I forgot about that. Sorry." Ashe vaguely remembers the scroll message and how she accepted Ruby's offer to train her, or at least with her.
"What day would work best for you?"
Humming to herself, Ashe makes herself comfortable into her room and neatly sets her belongings upon her desk. Quickly glossing over her weekend plans. She has the group breakfast in the morning with Ren and all of team JNPR, and RWBY if they decide to attend. After that, she had plans with Weiss, so unless Ruby doesn't mind training late in the day, it will have to wait for the day after. On that day, she has training with P-, Ashe suddenly jolts to a stop and realization dawns upon her.
That's why she has been so giddy all week.
Well, Ashe can't say she isn't looking forward to it either. Pyrrha did mention she would prefer to be uninterrupted, and if they meet as earlier like last time. Then perhaps Ruby could join them after two hours or so. Then lunch to give her the rest of the day for her own devices. Whirling around, Ashe finds Ruby gazing about in curiosity to her room. She's not surprised to find her munching on a cookie either. "The day after tomorrow will work in the morning, before lunch."
With their plan made, Ruby stuck around for a while longer and flopped onto Ashe's spare bed. There she spends her time playing video games on her scroll childishly. Catching up on some of her schoolwork, Ashe is suddenly interrupted by an unsure question. "You're not gonna stab me, are you?"
Ashe is not quite sure if she heard correctly. Perking up and slowly tilting her head back at an angle toward Ruby, she finds her sitting at the bed's edge. "Um…No? Unless you want me to or something." What exactly did she mean by that question? Did Ruby think she was going to leap over her chair and stab her or something? Has her reputation and rumors sunk that low? It's only been a few days. Never underestimate the power of gossip mongers.
"Ah-haha, no-no-no, I rather not. Dad always tells me, I eat so many cookies, that I would probably bleed cookies. I rather not find out if it's true or not." An awkward silence fills into the room, the two girls staring at one another. With a cough in embarrassment, Ruby jumps to her feet. "If you'll excuse me. I am going to go hide in embarrassment now." Before Ashe could blink, Ruby bursts into rose petals and disappears out the door. With a slow blink, her nose twitches before turning back to her desk. Trying to make sense of what just happened will only cause more headache. It's better to just accept things at face value. Before she knows it, Ashe finishes most of her work by the time night falls and decides to call it an early night. Strangely, she has no visitors tonight, but she is not about to look a gift horse in the mouth.
Rising early for the next day, Ashe decides to remain in her pajamas for the morning. With an exaggerated yawn, she shuffles into the lit kitchen to find Ren in all his glory. Mainly in his chef hat and apron. With their morning greetings out of the way, the two begin their culinary work. Mostly Ren doing the work and teaching Ashe along the way. If she's said it once, she will say it again. She enjoys how patient Ren is and how calmly he talks to her. Even when she messes up most of the time.
The first person to arrive would of course be Pyrrha in her pajamas. Pulling up a stool, the teen greets them both with a smile and warmth. Ren sets a plate with finger scraps for her to pick at while they talk. Ashe did manage to confirm their training tomorrow morning and when to meet. That only solidified her assessment when Pyrrha becomes extra giddy and bright. Ren perks a brow in amusement and offers to make them extra portions to save as breakfast sandwiches in the fridge. Since they will be up so early and can just warm them up.
Bless his heart.
Surprisingly, the second person to arrive was Blake. She shuffled into the kitchen with a yawn and book held to her chest. Offering her their morning greetings, Blake makes her way toward the table and takes a seat. She mentioned Yang and Ruby's snoring wake her up at night most of the time, so may as well come early. With the two people trickling in, Ashe begins to brew coffee in the machine. Though she gave Blake a cup of milk instead, since she's not much of a coffee drinker. Her tongue is quite sensitive apparently.
Before long, the rest of her companions began to shuffle in with yawns and stretches. Jaune and Yang appeared roughly at the same time. Though Yang looked more like a zombie with nappy bed hair. Pyrrha asked Jaune why he did not wake Nora up, but the rubbing and noticeable red fist print on his cheek signals his effort. Ren could only chuckle knowingly. "Don't worry about Nora. When the last pancake is finished, she will know."
The rest of team JNPR, Ashe, and Blake could only stare toward him curiously. Yang was resting with her arms folded on the table and taking a quick nap. Weiss and Ruby arrived together. Weiss in her pajamas with her hair pulled into a low ponytail to keep it mostly in place. Ruby was like Yang and looked to fall asleep at any moment. Though everyone couldn't help but snicker at the noticeable cowlick upon her hair. Ashe places Weiss's coffee before her and another for Ruby. Expressing their gratitude, they turn their attention toward Ren after he calls out toward them. "Do you all want to see something interesting?"
Everyone looks at each other curiously before shrugging their shoulders and nodding toward him. With a smirk, he paces toward the pile of pancakes with the frying pan and spatula. With an over-dramatic gesture, he flips the pancake into the air and watches it flop onto the pile. Setting down the kitchen utensils, he raises his hand begins to count down from three. Reaching zero a loud bang echoes out, startling everyone. Suddenly thunderous footsteps boom through the hallway and rapidly approaches the group. Nora bursts through the archway, a pillow torpedoing behind her and further down the hallway. A loud clash of porcelain shattering is all the sound they need to know where it went. "Ren! Pancake me!"
On que, a pancake flings through the air like a frisbee and Nora snatches it before gulping it down in one go. "That's the stuff. Morning everyone~" They could only stare in bewilderment and shock; Nora casually strides into the kitchenette and pours herself a drink like she owns the joint and finds a place at the table. A moment later and everyone is at the table enjoying the feast. Though Ashe made sure to make herself some eggs with cheese this time. Of course, Ren showed her how to properly season it.
Ashe doesn't really participate in the conversations at the table, but she listens attentively and munches away peacefully. For all the noise her comrades were making, it was quite peaceful. Finishing her plate, Ashe empties the scrapes into the trash bin and leaves the dish in the sink. She's not on clean up duty. A perk of cooking along with Ren. Neither one is on dish duty.
Bidding her farewells, Ashe makes it into the hallway before a voice calls out to her. Raising a hand, she tilts her hat back straight with a chime of her bell. Weiss approaches with her coffee mug in hand and taking a quick sip. "Ashe, will you be able to meet me at the bullhead docks in about an hour and a half? I need to finish getting dressed and have a quick errand to run. There's somewhere I want you to go with me."
"Mm. I'll be waiting for you at the docks then." Weiss nods and quietly walks down the hall toward her room with mug in hand. Watching her disappear, Ashe returns to her own dorm for a shower and dress. Drying off her hair with a towel, she finds her pocket notepad on her desk. With a shrug, she pockets it into her vest and ties her hair into its usual tails. Equipping her weapons, she remembers to close her door this time and makes her way toward the docks.
The one thing she loves about Beacon, is the landscaping. Along the path she finds flowers planted in various colors. A certain flower catches her eye. Blinking to herself, Ashe checks the time on her scroll. With a nod, she plops along the path and takes out the small pocket notebook with a small pencil in the binding. Ashe begins to draw in the small booklet while occasionally looking at the flower.
Drawing vegetation has always been a pass time of hers. There was not much else for her to do back in the jungle. It revolved around training, fighting, and missions, but sometimes there were lulls that she did not know what to do. That's when Ashe was given a small notebook and a pencil. It still hurts to think about her, but she will always remember her first friend. Ashe quickly loses track of time, a slim shadow stands behind her quietly, watching her draw within the tiny notepad. She finishes her drawing and looks it over after shading it in softly.
"I didn't know you could draw. It's pretty."
Ashe tilts her head to look up and behind her. She finds Weiss easily peering down at her and slightly hunched to look at the small paper. Her light blue eyes shining brightly and curiously. Looking back down, Ashe nods quietly. "Mm, it's just a hobby of mine. I'm not really that good at it." Ashe closes it and makes to pocket it, before a pale hand reaches down and quickly snatches it.
"Nonsense, you're actually pretty good. Let me see that." Ashe could only watch as Weiss looks through her booklet with a keen eye. Quietly humming to herself with each glance. There were not many pictures in there considering it was new, just two before this one making three. Weiss glances toward Ashe and hands it back. "I was right, you are pretty good. The others were flowers as well, do you know their meanings?"
"Not really. I just like how they look, and some smell nice." Weiss chuckles softly, causing a slight red hue to appear on Ashe's cheeks in embarrassment. It's not like she had some grand reason for liking flowers. She liked how they looked and smelled. Considering she was practically raised in a jungle; she grew accustomed to their scents. Though, she thinks it started at home.
Weiss steps beside Ashe and crouches down with one hand pointing out, "These are Heathers. In short, the white ones mean protection and wishes will come true. While the lavenders mean admiration and solitude." Ashe hums quietly before Weiss quickly stands back to her feet with an out-stretched hand. "Come on, looks like I made the correct choice on where to take you."
Taking the hand, Ashe allows herself to be pulled up and follow along beside Weiss. She asked where they are going once, but all she got was a wink, grin, and "You'll see." She decided not to press for an answer. Instead they made small talk along the ride about the classes and what she is struggling with. Weiss took it upon herself to help with Ashe's studies when she can. In return, Ashe keeps Weiss up to date with Academy news and favors she may need assistance with.
Before long, Ashe notices that there are fewer buildings along the quick ride. Not a moment longer, the bullhead lands in a grassy clearing. When they disembark, Ashe finds herself staring at a large greenhouse with fields of colorful flowers in the distance in every which way she may. Weiss steps forward and whirls around in a pirouette with hands behind her back and a smug expression. "Welcome to the Schnee greenhouse in Vale. Beautiful, isn't it?"
Looking around, Ashe doesn't even get to respond before Weiss grabs onto her gloved hand with a prideful expression and drags her through the landing field and toward the greenhouse. "You should see the inside, there are so many kinds of flowers." After dragging her indoors, Ashe is blasted by a mixture of scents from the ventilation. Some familiar and some foreign.
Being dragged to the first cluster, Weiss quickly points them out. Blabbing incoherently and excited while still holding her hand and dragging her from cluster to cluster. Ashe doesn't even know what she's saying. By the time Weiss finishes speaking, Ashe's arm is jerked toward another direction before she can properly take a look. Finally having enough, Ashe digs her feet into the ground and forces Weiss to stop. "Weiss, you're going too fast. I have no idea what's going on or what you're even saying."
Turning back toward Ashe, Weiss stares her down for a moment. Looking down at their hands, Weiss flutters her eyes in thought before looking at the flowers. A light flush appearing upon her cheeks. "I—You're right. My apologies, I was being undignified."
Nodding once, Ashe looks toward the colorful flowers. "So, what are these?" Gracefully Weiss composes herself and tells her. At a slower and normal pace. At least Ashe can properly look at them before moving along. The tranquility of the fragrances and controlled weather environment helped to sooth their tensions away. Along the way, a colorful mix of flowers catches Ashe's eye. Slowly approaching, she gazes over them.
Weiss approaches from behind quietly with her hands clasped behind her back. "Those are mixed Zinnia's. Colorful and usually mean 'absent friend' or 'in memory of'."
"Mm." The heiress watches curiously while Ashe reaches out and brushes her fingers through the petals softly. A longing look within her eyes at a distant memory. Even the voice within her head is calm and quiet. She couldn't help the smile creeping to her lips. Remembering when she first received flowers in her life. Ashe had no idea what to do with them.
"Do you like those?"
With a half-lidded expression and upward turn of the lips, Ashe nods once. "Mm, a long time ago, a friend gave these to me. I always wondered what they meant, and now I do."
A hand softly lands on her shoulder, forcing her to tilt her head at the soft touch to look up toward Weiss. "Let's take a break. We have been walking for a while." Looking back at the Zinnia, her hand gently cups the yellow Zinnia before allowing Weiss to lead her away. The warmth of the sun soon greets her in its radiance. Making Ashe stretch up toward the sky to relieve the kinks in her joints. A small walk away, Ashe is led to a garden gazebo. A small table and chairs are within, and apparently a tray of treats and a pitcher of a cool beverage.
How long has it been out here?
Taking her seat and cool beverage in hand, she takes a sip to find it to be tea. The only sound is the wind rustling the field of flowers in waves. With the beverage in hand, Ashe looks out into the field. "So, why did you bring me here?" This was not a place she was expecting to be brought to. Though, she enjoyed it immensely. Even if others consider it to be duller and more boring. It's peaceful to her.
Weiss sets down her cup and rests her chin within the palm of her hand. Looking out into the fields with a forlorn expression down memory lane. "When I was young, my grandmother would bring me here often. Nana would tell me about the flowers and their meanings and let me run through the fields playing. She even let me pick a few, as long as I didn't take too many." Snow-white hair gently glistens down her temple to caress at her cheek. "She loved flowers, but the environment around Atlas made it difficult for them to grow. So, she had this greenhouse made, and she didn't like to come alone. So, she brought me every time."
Looking toward Weiss, Ashe finds that forlorn look upon her soft features. Weiss had her other hand wrapped around her cup handle, the other holds her chin and propped on the table. The loneliness upon her features made a knot within Ashe's chest. "You love her, don't you?" Ashe blurted it out before she could even think.
Weiss nods with a fragile smile, "Yes, I loved Nana immensely. If anything, she spoiled me rotten." Slowly the smile twists down into a frown, "Then one day, she passed away. She was old, and the climate in Atlas wasn't good for her fragile health. Even after she passed away, she still looked after me." Turning toward Ashe, there was a slight redness to her eyes, but faint. "After the funeral service, someone approached me with a bouquet. Said the flowers were for me from Nana on the day of her funeral. They were rare flowers that blossom deep in the mountains of Atlas in the river valleys. A bouquet of Lily of the Valleys. 'You've made my life complete'. That's what they mean in folklore."
Looking back down at her own cup. Ashe gazes at her small reflection. She's not sure how to respond. If she should even respond. A soft sniffle forces her to look back up, to find Weiss wiping away under an eye, but careful of her make-up. "I didn't have any friends growing up, so Nana told me that when I made one, I had to bring them here so she could meet them. So, here we are. That's the main reason I brought you here today. The other is that no one ever comes here, so it's private. Just a few horticulturists and employees upkeeping the land." With a huff, Weiss composes herself a moment later. "I figured I would start first, and it is only fair as well. After all, I went through your belongings and invaded your privacy. So, tell me about those photos."
"Mm." Letting the breeze wash through the gazebo, Ashe's bell chimes softly in the wind. "The photos were of my mother and younger siblings." Setting down her mug, Ashe fiddles her fingers together, a knot forming within her stomach. If she was to be honest with herself. Ashe doesn't want to talk about her past at all. But she knows she has to eventually. All her life has been nothing but running away. A coward. Perhaps a little wouldn't hurt. It's not like Ashe can vividly remember her earlier years. Nothing but fragments, she was too young to truly remember. "Honestly, I was very young, so I don't remember much about her at all. Just fragments of memories." With a shaky breath, Ashe recalls what she can about the earliest of years in her life. "We lived in a small cottage in Wind Path. I know, it's not the friendliest of places, but it was cheap."
It's true after all. From what she can mostly remember, her family was not the most well-off of people. She can not remember much of her father, but she knows he was always out working. "Mama would always read me a bedtime story, because I had trouble sleeping at night sometimes. I do remember my favorite story though. About two mice faunus that were part of something called 'Rescue Aid Society', and would go around helping people. I couldn't really find anything about the story, so I always wondered if Mama made it up for me." Clearing out her throat, she looks away, pretending Weiss isn't there and only speaking to herself. "I was...happy. I think. Mama loved me; she did the best she could for me. I was fed, clothed, and made sure I was healthy. In the end, everything was my fault. Always my fault."
Raising her hand up, Ashe takes off her hat and sets it upon the table. Letting her ears be free and comfortable within the breeze. Wisps of her ash colored hair fluttering against her face with an occasional flicker of a mouse ear. They were alone after all and no one was around to see. Ashe's gloved hand rubs onto her cheek anxiously, "My semblance started to manifest at a young age, and I couldn't control it. It erases my presence and makes me easily overlooked, forgotten even."
Realization dawns upon Weiss's features. Why it was always so difficult to keep track of Ashe, and how she could disappear during lunch to eat by herself sometimes. Other times, she was just there and the next moment, Ashe was gone. Sometimes, it was like trying to find a ghost. She had a passive semblance, those are extremely rare. She remains silent and allows her to continue undisturbed. Weiss gets the feeling, if she speaks out, Ashe would close off completely.
"It became a problem immediately and we never even knew it." Ashe shrugs her shoulders with a bitter and hollow laugh. "Mama was beginning to forget about me. If I didn't speak or make a sound, Mama forgot I was there. She slowly forgot to wake me up in the mornings, sometimes the house would be empty, or she would forget to feed me. Mama eventually stopped reading me my bed time stories." Both hands raise and rub onto her arms, slightly rocking. "I thought I did something wrong. What did I do? Was Mama mad at me? Was I a bad girl? I just wanted someone to tell me. But no one did."
A shaky breath escapes in a deep exhale from Ashe's lips, her body shivering with goosebumps forming upon her skin. "We ran out of food for the week, so it was time for us to go to the market. Dad wasn't due home for a while and I was still young, so she couldn't leave me alone at home. At least, not on purpose. Mama dressed me up in my little dress, and had my bangs up in a hair clip, so I wouldn't trip. Before we left, she told me multiple times, to never let go of her. To be a good girl. And I didn't."
A redness begins to form upon her eyes this time, "The market was more packed than usual, but I was doing good. I was a good girl. I never let go of her, and we were almost done. So close. But near the end, there was a traveling magician on route to Argus. He was doing all kinds of neat tricks to make some money, and being the curious child, I let go and went to watch. I was ecstatic. I've never seen anyone do magic tricks before. My whole life was being cooped up within a small cottage. That was my world, and here I found someone doing magic tricks. Just like the people Mama would tell me about in fairy tales. I wanted Mama to come watch as well, so I turned around to call out to her."
Ashe's hands reach up and cover her face, "Only, she wasn't there. Mama wasn't there." Weiss clenches her hands into fists, the crack in her voice stabbed into her heart. Weiss had the same reaction once, but she had Nana there, even if it was only for a little while. Then Winter was there for her after Nana passed away. Always someone there for her.
"I looked everywhere. I looked and looked; I swear I did. I called out for her, but I couldn't find her. The market was crowded and hard to maneuver through. Everyone was in such a rush, it was suffocating and crowded. I couldn't breath, my world was spinning. People were everywhere. Grumpy, angry, so much yelling." Ashe wraps her arms around her body and shivers to herself noticeably. "I tried asking for help, but no one had time for a child. A faunus at that. They would yell at me, tell me to go away, my crying was driving customers away, and to go back to my mother. Mama, I wanted Mama."
Ashe's fist slams against the table, her cup spilling over and startling Weiss. Ashe curls inward on herself in pain. "I tried. I tried so hard to go back to Mama, but no one helped me. All they did was sneer at me, insult me, tell me I'm a nuisance, a stray, and to get lost. A few of them even shoved me away, kicked me back in the streets when I started to beg for their help."
Ashe was but a child amongst the giant adults. The crowd did not care for her at all. It was like she didn't even exist. They would walk over her, shove her away, their legs would smack her when she approached. Pushed around like a pinball. Every where she looked it was the same. People, people, and more people, there was so many, and none gave her the time of day.
She was scared, so scared and no one was there. Mama wasn't there, so she ran. Screaming for Mama to find her. Her voice was hoarse and raw, wet. Ashe ran as far and fast as her legs could carry her. Ashe couldn't even remember where she ran or for even how long. Was it for a few minutes? Hours? The memories afterwards began to grow hazy. The one thing she does remember, is when she tripped and fell. She scuffed her hands, elbows, and knees, but she didn't care at the time. She was frightened and did the only thing she could at the time. She wailed. Wailed her terrified heart out in the middle of the street. Alone and scared, she didn't care about the magic tricks anymore. She will never let go of Mama again. She will be a good girl. Just come find her. All she wants...
'Mama...'
Ashe never realized it, but she was rambling and spouting out madness toward Weiss in her recollection. She does not even know what she is saying. Her ears are stuffed and dulled. Is she loud? Was she quiet? Ashe doesn't know. She doesn't know anything. Her face is numb and cold. How red is she? Or is she pale? The tears won't stop. Ashe didn't hear a chair screeching along the ground, or the rapid steps of heels on the wood. She was cold, so cold in the blazing sun. She couldn't stop her shivers. Make it stop. Someone make it stop.
Something warm clashed against her side, and she clung to it. Weiss wrapped her arms around Ashe and held her close but quietly. What does she say? What should she say? Weiss has no experience in this area. Nana always knew what to say. But there was one thing she always did that helped, and that was just to hug Weiss. Letting her cling and just stay there till she felt better. That was all she knew, and that it looked like Ashe needed someone. Weiss was the only one here, the responsibility fell to her. She was the one that wanted to know about Ashe's history as well. Weiss doesn't know the pain Ashe went through, nor will she ever. The type of pain they felt is different, but there is one thing she can relate to. Having a mother that wasn't there. Whether it was voluntary or involuntary, the result is the same. Weiss's own mother wasn't there for her either, but at least she knew where she was. Close at hand.
The more she thinks about it; Weiss wants to slap herself. There was always someone there for her. Mother was there for a while, then Nana, Winter, and even Klein. Weiss was never truly alone. There was always an adult figure within her life. Of course, she did not have any friends, but she lived a luxurious life. Isolated. Hearing someone else's life story, really puts your own into perspective. However, that doesn't make the pain either of them felt any less. Weiss's hand absentmindedly strokes onto Ashe's head. Weiss does not know how long she held onto Ashe, but she stayed and slowly rocked back and forth like Nana would. Was she doing it right? Or is she only making it worse? Emotions and psychology are not her thing.
"I shouldn't have let go. It was all my fault; I was a bad girl."
Weiss's heart clenched at the whimper, squeezing the girl closer. "No, you were not. It's not your fault. It's no one's fault. It was an accident. You were young. Just a child that was curious about the world. You had no control over the situation. If anything, it is the fault of the people who wouldn't give a little girl the time of day. They are the ones to blame." The only response is silence once more.
After a while and with a shaky breath, Ashe slowly begins to pry away from Weiss. "I'm sorry."
"Don't apologize, you have nothing to feel sorry for." Weiss reaches toward the table to grab a cloth and hands it to Ashe for her to use. "Here, use this." Mumbling out a thanks, Ashe begins to clean her face and wiping it clean. Cleaning up the spilled drink, Weiss pours another for Ashe. "Better?"
With a timid nod, Ashe clasps both hands into her lap. "Not really. But I will manage. I have to." She will. She has to, till she sees the end.
"Thank you for telling me, and I'm sorry it hurt for you to do it. We can finish some other time." Placing a hand upon Ashe's shoulder, the faunus looks up toward her with glossy honey eyes. "The day is still young, and we are still on a date, so how about we enjoy the rest of the day."
"What did you have in mind?"
Ashe suddenly finds her hands being grabbed by Weiss and pulled up onto her feet gently. Weiss is giving her a small grin, "Come with me for a moment." Once more, Weiss drags Ashe by the hand and out the gazebo.
"What about my hat?"
Weiss looks back and around the area for a moment, "Don't worry, we are staying here and not going far. Besides, I told you there's no one else around here. The employees were told I was bringing a guest and to give us privacy. Now follow me." True to her word, they did not wander far at all. Weiss dragged her into the colorful flowers before letting go of her hand. Weiss's back was toward Ashe. "The most cherished memories I have with Nana were in these fields. She would always play a game with me when she was feeling healthy enough."
"What game?"
"I'm glad you asked." Weiss whirls around with a knowing look and casually sashays toward Ashe. Raising a delicate and manicured finger, she gently taps Ashe upon the chest. She looks toward Weiss curiously and confused at the sudden gesture. "Tag, you're it." Weiss leaps away calmly.
Ashe raises a hand and rubs onto her chest for a moment. Tag? Weiss wants to play a game of tag. Are they not above the age to play such a game? Has Ashe ever played tag before? Ashe can't seem to ever recall a moment when she has. But, what about the flowers? Won't they be ruined or trampled?
"I said 'Tag, you're it', or did you realize you're that much slower than me and have no chance at all? I suppose I am just that talented after all."
With a clench of her fist, Ashe huffs. Forget the flowers, she's going to win at this game. Rubbing the last remnants of moisture from her eyes, she leaps toward Weiss and starts their chase. Ashe will make her eat those words. The game started off slow and calming. The exercise and effort allowing Ashe to forget her episode while the exertion of muscles calmed her mind. They would run through the fields with a few words of challenge, mostly on Weiss's part. There was also an interesting flower that caught Ashe's attention. She plucked it before Weiss noticed. Though it did give her time to get a tag upon Ashe. It was just a friendly game of tag. But just like all things.
They decided to kick it up a notch.
Or two.
Maybe it was ten.
The two were eventually blurring through the fields like hyped up hedgehogs. Petals fluttering into the breeze when one would speed through their foliage. Weiss got the last tag onto Ashe, so she was it. Weiss was proving to be a crafty speed demon in her own right. She had a powerful kick-off power, must be for all the thrusting with her rapier. She could easily speed forward, but she struggled in sharp turns which made her predictable and unable to adapt. Ashe had no such downside and was more than easily able to catch her when she made to turn. Of course, the grass was occasionally slick from moisture and made footing difficult. So, when Ashe slipped and ended up tackling Weiss instead, it wasn't on purpose, of course. That's her story and she's sticking to it.
The two tumbled into the flowers before rolling to a stop upon their backs. They couldn't help but blink before bursting out into laughter. Weiss waves a hand and smacks Ashe on the shoulder during their laughter. "Fine, you win this time." A gloved hand raises into the air and holds out the gesture for number one. Then clenches into a fist and plops onto the ground.
Catching their breath and letting their laughter die down, Ashe is the first to sit up. Turning toward Weiss, she reaches into her vest and pulls out a flower she picked. "Here, this is for you." There was a moment when Weiss tagged her and Ashe took a quick breather to give her a head start. That was when she saw this, and it immediately reminded Ashe of Weiss.
Slowly rising to sit, Weiss slides her legs under her elegantly and takes hold of the plucked flower. Looking it over, she looks back toward Ashe. "A Variegated Tulip? White and blue at that, that's rare. Where did you find this?"
Ashe shrugs her shoulders calmly. "Back when I took a small breather. It looked really pretty and it caught my eye because it reminded me of you. What does it mean?"
Weiss looks at the tulip and smiles softly while twirling it between her fingers. "Well, it's a variegated tulip, which usually means 'Beautiful eyes'."
"Oh, then it's a perfect fit. You have such beautiful eyes. That's why I called you Stardust." Weiss snaps in attention toward Ashe with the tulip in hand. Ashe stares back before her mind begins to catch up to what she said. Her expression morphs into shock before palming herself and using the other to wave Weiss's gaze away. "Forget what I said. You didn't hear that just now. I'm sorry."
Weiss didn't need to see Ashe's face; she already knows from the red tips on her human ears. Weiss glances around in their surroundings. Quickly standing to her feet in resolve, Ashe perks up at the sudden jolt of movement. Spinning around, Weiss stalks away toward a healthy set of flowers. Ashe follows Weiss with her lingering curiosity, before standing to her own feet and chasing after.
Suddenly, Weiss straightens her back and swirls around. Her long side-tail flowing around elegantly. Within her left hand was the tulip Ashe had given her, and within her right was a different color. Weiss steps forward with a neutral expression and slight reddening of her cheeks. Shoving her right hand out, Weiss offers the flower. "Here, take it." Blinking at the order, Ashe does as she's told and takes it within her fingers. Looking it over, it's the same breed she gave Weiss. A tulip as well. Though it was a different color.
It was a red tulip.
"A red tulip? What does it mean?" Questioned Ashe in curiosity. She waits for a response, but all she gets is silence. Looking back up, the red is much more visible upon Weiss's face.
Stomping her foot in a princess pout, the red brightens further. "Figure it out yourself." She then storms off with the variegated tulip close in hand. Ashe fumbles behind in awkwardness. She's not sure what happened, but Weiss seems to be annoyed. Back at the gazebo, Ashe plops her hat back into place and takes a sip of her left-over beverage, now warm. Her stomach grumbles quietly but is easily heard by Weiss.
Perking up and glancing over her shoulder, a slight hint of red is still present but mostly gone. "It is rather late, let's go get ourselves some food. The bullhead should be waiting for us at the landing zone, and we can go into Vale. Your treat this time." Before Ashe could respond, Weiss stalks off onto the path back toward the landing zone. When she catches up with Weiss, the two silently walk together and enjoy the fragrances and breeze.
Within the bullhead, the two sat beside each other comfortably. Looking at the red tulip, Ashe gives it a once over. In a slow motion, Ashe draws her dagger and grabs Weiss's attention. The heiress watches her curiously while Ashe clears the stalk smooth and shortens it. Setting her blade down, Ashe takes the shorten tulip and places it behind her right human ear. The red clashing with her color scheme, but she doesn't mind. At least her hands are free, and it won't be smushed in her pocket.
"Would you do mine as well."
Blinking calmly toward Weiss, Ashe finds Weiss's flower extended toward her. She's not quite sure if Weiss was asking or demanding. That's just the type of tone she has. Either way, Ashe doesn't mind in the least. At least it gives her something to do. Weiss watches intently while Ashe works on the stalk. Once she finished, Ashe made to hand it back. Instead, the heiress shakes her head and tilts it to the side, exposing the left side of her head. A well-manicured hand brushing back snow-colored hair, "Place it on this side."
As instructed, Ashe places it behind Weiss's left ear. Making sure the flower is snug and secure, the bullhead thumps into a landing with the opening of the door. They disembark and find the sun is slowly setting with a dull blue and growing orange hue. Ashe allows Weiss to lead her around Vale in their stroll. Occasionally stopping to gaze into window at a few miscellaneous tinkers. Trying to find a place to eat was beginning to grow frustrating.
Let it be said, Weiss has a high-class tongue that only the finest of foods could satisfy. Not only that, Weiss kept saying that Ashe could choose where to eat, but then Weiss would shoot it down in denial. Not only that, Ashe knew she was doing it on purpose. Weiss had this playful smirk upon her features the whole time that kept growing with each restaurant. She was at her wits end and about to pull out her own hair in frustration.
"This is acceptable."
Weiss strides by with grace and clasped hands to her front, like the royalty that she is. That insufferable grin never straying from her lips. Grumbling to herself, Weiss disappears into the eatery while Ashe vents out her anger and kicks at a light post before following in. Surprisingly, they are taken to the roof for an outside meal. Though, Weiss does not seem surprised by this in the least. Perhaps she was purposefully leading them here from the very beginning.
As if she was reading her mind, Weiss turns toward Ashe with a smug expression.
Yea, she totally did.
Ashe sulked and hardly spoke to Weiss in the beginning. Eventually the heiress chuckled and apologized before the mood returned to normal. For most of the meal, Weiss did most of the talking. Ashe would ask questions about the greenhouse and flowers. Weiss would answer in earnest and detail, but she would respond in too much detail. Before long, Weiss would begin to regale tails about her grandmother.
It was not that Ashe didn't like to hear about it, but that she could not contribute anything to the conversation. Weiss would even occasionally mention something about her mother, but only in passing. Ashe wanted to add to the conversation. She truly did, but there was nothing for her to add. Only questions and small comments here and there. It was a slap to the face from reality at how much she missed out on. It was really beginning to dampen her mood. Next thing she knew, Ashe was idly playing with her food using the fork.
Eventually, Weiss noticed and changed the topic. Even though it was something mundane like the breakfast get-together from the morning. Though the topic was boring and dull, Weiss couldn't help but rest her elbow upon the table to hold up her chin to linger toward Ashe. The way she perked up and started to talk about the things she learned and made with Ren, it was cute. She always had some neutral expression, or one of annoyance. Sometimes when Ashe thought people weren't looking, it looked pained as well.
Though when Weiss mentioned she thought the eggs were delicious, Ashe withdrew into herself in embarrassment, said she made them herself. There, the tiniest of natural smiles. Weiss tightens her lips, it wasn't some beautiful or pretty smile, but crooked and small. Natural and cute. In fact, part of Weiss couldn't help but want to tease her some more. The other half was feeling greedy. She wants to be the only one to see it. Hers and hers alone.
Suddenly a tune rings out from a scroll. Perking up, Ashe quickly reaches into her pocket to pull it out. Looking at the caller, she suddenly sighs in annoyance and exasperation. Turning to sit sideways, Ashe takes the call, "What do you want?" Her voice was bland and annoyed.
Weiss snorts in amusement, there's only one person Ashe uses that tone with, Ozpin. It was interesting to watch the one-sided conversation. Ashe was quite expressive when it comes to Ozpin. It seems he knows how to push her buttons in the correct sequence. By the time Ashe hangs up the call, she sighs in defeat. "He wants me to check on a security system nearby. Ozpin said it just started to show signs of errors within the system."
So that's what he wanted. Weiss was curious about what the conversation was about, "Should I head back before you then?"
Ashe shakes her head slowly, "No, somehow, Ozpin knew you were with me. He said to bring you with me and to show me how to restart the program. He should be sending the coordinates in a moment." As if on que, a ping echoes out from both of their scrolls. "It's not that far from here."
With a shrug, Weiss stands to her feet, watching as Ashe leaves Lien on the table for payment. "Let's get a move on then. The faster we finish this, the better. It is starting to get dark out after all." The two teens begin their exit before Weiss perks up at realization. "How did he know I was with you by the way?"
"Mm, I'm not sure. He just knows things. I stopped trying to figure that out a while ago." Stated Ashe, and it's true. He would know things and never explain how. When she tried to figure it out, she would come out empty handed. Weiss hums curiously in their descent down the stairs. They never notice the group of eyes from the corner of the roof. A familiar set of aviators resting upon the table with a model-like teen holding a scroll loosely in hand.
"Coco, did you really have to interrupt them like that?"
"Hm? Vel-Darling, you know I never 'interrupt' when it comes to romance. This is my area of expertise after all."
Velvet squints toward Coco, mid-bite of her veggies. "If it's your area of expertise, why are you still single?"
Coco recoils as if struck. Springing back forth, she points toward Velvet, "That's because I haven't found the right person that can handle all of 'this'." Coco emphasized it by motioning her hands toward her own body. "Besides, maybe I have my eyes set on someone already." She gives a playful wink toward Velvet. Said girl shakes her head humorously before perking up.
Velvet suddenly snorts in amusement and giggles toward the side. Coco slams her palm upon the table and whirls around toward Fox. "I do not have a sister-complex!" Fox remains silent with a teasing grin upon his lips. "Yatsuhashi! Tell them I do not have a sister-complex!"
The gentle giant of their group perks up with a mouthful of food. Looking between the rest of his team members, he quickly swallows his food before speaking. "She totally has a sister-complex."
"Hah! You see—Hey! Come on! Is this pick on your leader day? After I brought us all out to have a nice team dinner?" Whined Coco before plopping back into her seat. Velvet couldn't stop giggling off to the side. Fox was amused and grinning. It wasn't often they got one up on their leader.
Pouting toward her team, Coco suddenly bursts into a soft chuckle and shrugs her shoulders. "Oh, whatever." Leaning over, she gives Velvet a one arm hug and holds onto her. Velvet grumbles and continues with her veggie meal. Crossing a leg over the other, Coco looks toward Yatsuhashi. "Do me a solid and sleep outside in the hall tonight. I don't like traitors."
Team CFVY chuckles and continues with their meal. Velvet is the first to finish and leans back in her chair. "You know it's strange. Ozpin had us comb the forest, but we couldn't find anything all week. Shouldn't we have run across…I dunno…somethin'?"
Coco, Velvet, and Yatsuhashi perk up and glance toward Fox. A moment later Coco nods, "Like Foxy said. It might be a good thing, perhaps they ended up killing each other. Whatever it was. That's also a common occurrence. There were signs of a conflict, but that's it. There's no use fretting over it."
"I'd have to agree-"
"Oh! Now you agree with me!"
Yatsuhashi carries on, as if Coco didn't just interrupt him. "We did not find anything and there were not any other signs of the Grimm roaming about. Neither did another incident like it happen, usually it repeats itself in waves. Thinking about it will just make our heads hurt."
Velvet nods with a soft sigh. A thought suddenly crosses her mind and turns toward Coco, "So, why did you call Ozpin and tell him Ashe and Weiss were on a date?"
"Hm? Oh, that's easy." Stated Coco with a glint in her eyes, "Ozpin mentioned he's gonna have Ashe handle some of the automated security systems to help lighten our load, and I remembered there being one around here on the fritz lately. Weiss is also a bit of a computer-wiz, so she should know how the systems operate. They are from Atlas and a Schnee design after all."
"I know that, but why interrupt them? I mean, we could have easily done it after our meal. It's not that far at all and hardly any Grimm ever appear in that location."
A hand ruffles onto Velvet's hair between her bunny ears in a tease, forcing her to grumble. "Aw, are you worried about your Juniors? Such a good upperclassman! I'm aware, but this one is special."
Yatsuhashi perks up with an arched brow, "Special? How?"
"Well~," Grasping onto her mug, Coco raises it up. A toast to herself at a job well done. "Let's just say the engineer was completely drunk and accidently built the console in the wrong direction. You need to wedge yourself in order to operate it. One person and you're fine, but two…" Coco arches a brow toward Fox who looks at her with a knowing look. The prankster side of him is proud. "Why yes, I know I'm good. After all…" A quick sip with a grin, "I'm the Love Doctor." Yatsuhashi snorts at the comment. "Shut up!"
True enough to her statement, after finding the security system, the console was wedged between the machine and wall. Obviously, Weiss recognized the machinery right away and found herself ecstatic to show off some Schnee products. Which is strange, considering they are here because the system is malfunctioning.
She's just saying.
Weiss was quick to drag her toward the console. Ashe noticed the cramped space, but Weiss didn't really care in her excitement. Not a second later, and Ashe found herself brushed up completely against Weiss's side in warmth. Ashe was right, Weiss was slim and smaller than she looked. Though still a few inches taller than Ashe. She still must look up toward her though.
"And just do this…and the system will reset. That will get the system back to being fully functional." Weiss turns toward Ashe with pride shining in her eyes. "Any questions?" It takes Ashe turning toward her to finally grasp their positioning. Having Ashe look up toward her, that hot breath tickling along her chilled neck. Weiss quickly begins to flush.
"Mm, not really. It's simple and easy to remember, so I should be able to handle it next time." Turning back to the console, Ashe raises her gloved hand to play with the system and repeat the steps Weiss showed her.
Weiss on the other hand, was having some issues. She couldn't look away from the petite teen beside her. The way she was staring at the screen, the blue reflection within her honey colored eyes, illuminating her soft and smooth skin, it made her lips shine naturally. They looked so soft.
"And then I just push this one, right?"
Snapping back to reality. Weiss forces herself back to the console with a deep breath. Thankfully, Ashe wasn't paying much attention to her, or maybe regrettably? She's not sure at this point. "Ahem, yes. You just have to push that one, and the system will reset. That simple."
"Alright, I think I got it now, thanks." Ashe quickly squirms her way out. This way Weiss would be able to wiggle her way afterwards. The faunus girl stretches and pops her joints from the cramped space. Weiss on the other hand was more worried about getting her breathing and fuzzy head back to normal. Though she certainly didn't seem in control when she just walked away from the faunus. Weiss is thankful that Ashe didn't say a word while making her way back to the nearest Bullhead.
Weiss doesn't need to look back to know Ashe is following her quietly. She could just feel it and knew she was there. Weiss should probably say something at the least, but she's tongue-tied. What should she say? If she speaks now, Weiss will just end up saying something embarrassing. It's better to just keep silent till she gets her thoughts properly in order. Although this is very unbecoming of her. If Ashe was confused or annoyed, she didn't show it. For the entire trip back to Beacon, Ashe didn't utter a word.
Eventually they found themselves at the intersection of the hallways toward their respective dorms. Weiss kept her back to Ashe while they stood within the silent halls in the night. Most students were either in their dorms, or local students at their homes for the weekend. Weiss still hasn't said anything to her yet. This awkwardness is humiliating for someone like her. Really undignified. Winter would scold her for such cowardice.
"Did I do something to upset you?"
Weiss couldn't help but whirl around at the soft voice, "No!" It was so timid and barely audible. Ashe was staring toward the ground and unsure of herself. "Sorry, I'm just tired is all. I have a lot going through my head. I apologize if I worried you. That wasn't my intention."
"Mm."
With a huff, Weiss rubs onto her bicep. "Thank you for today, what do you say about same time next weekend?"
"That sounds nice."
"Good…That's good." Weiss nods to herself and rocks from her toes to heels. "Next weekend then." Ashe hums an acknowledgement quietly. "Well, have a good night." Another soft hum from the petite faunus. Ashe stood and watched Weiss walk away into the night. She was about to continue her own path when Weiss suddenly stopped and squared her shoulders. With a blink, Weiss suddenly whirls around with a neutral expression. Snow colored hair whips around before Weiss stomps back toward Ashe quickly, determination shining with her eyes.
She doesn't even stop, one second she was far away. The next, Ashe found herself embraced in a warm hug by the heiress. Her small body is suddenly squeezed with a caress of warmth along her ear. "Sweet dreams as well." Weiss sets her down and rushes back down the hallway. Throwing open her dorm's door, she slams it behind her before leaning against it. A pale hand raises and covers over her lips in embarrassment. That wasn't what she meant to do. Weiss aborted at the last moment. When did she turn into a coward?
"Hey Weiss! Out late? How are y—Oh my god." Yang bellows out in her pajamas while dropping her scroll onto her bed. "No way. Ruby, Ruby wake up!" No response forces Yang to grab her pillow and launch it toward Ruby's sleeping form. That does the trick.
Ruby suddenly sits up with a cowlick and a dazed, sleepy expression. "Wah!" Grabbing her own pillow, "I gots Crescent Pillow, n' I'm not 'fraid to use it. Tis also a gun." Ruby pumps it like a shotgun, a bullet cap surprisingly popping out.
"What's all the racket?" Blake yawns softly while rubbing the sleep out of her eyes with a stretch.
"Guys! Look at Weiss! I didn't think it was possible." Yang scoots to the edge of the top bunk before leaping down to step toward Weiss.
Shaking her head awake, Blake looks toward Weiss. "What are you talking about? She looks fi—Oh my god." Blake is instantly alert with the widening of her eyes.
"Wha? I dun' get it." Slurred out Ruby while hugging her pillow. "I mean she wen' out on 'nother date, right?" Ruby closes her eyes and slowly starts to lean back down to go back to sleep. "N' she's just all red n' stuff like she had—Oh my god." She suddenly sits up and fully awake. "Are you gonna have a baby?!"
Blake palms her face roughly in exasperation with a shake of her head. Weiss slams the back of her head against the door before curling inward. Yang balks before turning toward Ruby. "Wha? No! Ruby, we've had the talk already! You're getting way ahead, start from the beginning!"
"Oh~ Cookie exchanging."
Yang palms her forehead, she forgot how their dad explained it to Ruby. She's going to rip into him next time she sees him. "Ruby, just go back to sleep." Yang turns back toward Weiss and crosses her arms over her bust with a knowing grin. "Oh yea, you've got it bad."
The red upon her face was not going away. It reached up toward the tip of her ears. Not only that, her light blue eyes had a certain shine to them. Weiss uncovered her mouth to retort back to Yang, "Shut up! You have no idea what you're talking about."
Yang just smirks further with a hand cupping and stroking at her own chin. "Yea, you're not fooling anyone with that goofy grin of yours, Princess."
Weiss angrily stomps off toward their bathroom, but it was an amusing sight considering the loopy smile wouldn't fade away. The door slams shut, causing Yang to burst into laughter along with Blake. With the excitement over Blake turns herself back in for the night, and with Weiss back in the dorm, Yang follows suit.
When Weiss finally joined the others for sleep, the silence filled into the room with the darkness. Snuggling up into her pillow, she was about to fall asleep when suddenly…
"You've got it reeeeally bad."
"Damn it Yang!"
(A/N)
I did da thing! This was a fun chapter to work on, even learned quite a few new things in the process. Ah, google...What kind of world would we be in without you. Dark Ages, maybe. Ah well, hope you all enjoyed the chapter! Debating recently if I should add in some omake type scenes after the notes or whatnot. They would be canon for the most part, so lemme know if that would interest anyone.
Darth