Chapter Twenty-Four

To say Ashe was bored would be an understatement. She has been confided to her dorm for many days now. While no one told her she could not leave, it felt that way. Any time she left; it would only be for a few moments before someone intercepted her. Then, they would all but drag her back to her room to rest. Even if she snuck out, a professor would always find her.

It was infuriating. She had to get out of her room for a while, but it had to be where someone would not find her and yet Ashe was still permitted to be. Which led her to where she is now.

Ashe stared down at her desk with a strained neutrality. She knew her work would pile up, but this was ridiculous. On her office table was a mountain of paperwork. Gritting her teeth, Ashe robotically turned toward the culprit. Sitting at his desk without a care in the world, was Ozpin happily munching on a muffin. With each bite, her good fingers twitched into a claw. "Ozpin…What's all this on my desk?"

Ozpin cupped his warm mug with both hands and a smile. "Why Ashe, whatever do you mean? Those are papers. They are made from trees before being processed. Surely, you already knew that?"

She barely restrained herself from snapping at his smartass remark. "Why is there so much of it? Did you do anything at all?" While yes, she did expect to have paperwork stocked up, she expected nothing of this quantity.

He placed a hand upon his chest with a dramatic gasp, "Just what are you insinuating? That I, the Headmaster of Beacon Academy, slacked in my job? How could you accuse me of just relaxing and spending my time eating tasty treats? I can assure you. I did not take any naps on my new sofa to break it in when Professor Goodwitch was away. Such a baseless accusation."

Ashe clawed onto her desk with a rising anger, "I didn't mention any of that, but it's obvious you were lazy and did nothing." She snapped with a grin, "I'll just have to inform Goodwitch about the extra workload. Such a shame, she has become quite accustomed to having a little bit of time off. I'd hate to imagine what she would do when that time is interrupted by someone slacking off under her watch."

Ozpin suddenly stood and looked at his watch. "My, will you look at the time. I have a meeting to attend. Be sure to catch up on your work and I will return later. Much later." Ozpin quickly vanished from the office in a hurry. His desk was spotless and clean with no trace of crumbs for Glynda to find.

With a huff, Ashe could feel a headache coming around from the frustration. The soft huff of the coffee maker drew her attention for a moment before it ceased. She trailed her finger along the edge of her small desk and took a seat with a sigh. The soft clicks of the clock gears reverberate throughout the office. Each beat drummed against her mind and grew stronger in a thunderous roar. Shaking her head, she scooted under her desk and began to shuffle through the paperwork and organize it.

Ashe needed to occupy her mind with a mundane task and not let it wander. Otherwise, she will spiral out of control. Ashe managed to successfully submerge herself within the overflowing work and rhythmic gears. It was only when a mug of hot chocolate was placed upon her desk, did her trance break to find a guest. Though, it was someone she has hardly spoken to, even if she had his class every day. "Professor Oobleck."

He held a thermos and poured himself a drink. "Ms. Souris, a wonderful surprise to see you up and eager to get back to work. How are you today?"

She had to admit, it was strange to see him more subdued and calmer, he was generally vibrating in energy. "Mm, better. If you are looking for Ozpin, he stepped out, don't know when he will return." Ashe returned to work, expecting him to confirm and come back at another time. It is always the same routine.

Oobleck was silent for a moment before taking a sip, "On the contrary Ms. Souris, I was looking for you."

Ashe's pen scratched to a halt, setting it down with a thump and roll, her nose twitches while staring up at Oobleck. "Me? What do you want with me?"

With a soft sigh, Oobleck set his thermos and drink upon her makeshift desk. "I know this might be difficult to understand as a student, but we Professors do care about your wellbeing. Everyone was troubled when we learned of your disappearance, and it only became worse when you were returned with injuries." She could only stare with a tilt of her head. He paused as if he had something more to say. "And if I am to be honest, I suppose I may have been affected more so than the others. I fear I haven't exactly left a good impression."

She was not quite sure what to make of this, but Ashe assumed it had to do with their first meeting. "Ah, it's alright. It's not exactly your fault."

Oobleck sighed to himself, "Whether it was my fault or not is irrelevant. The fact remains, I have not done anything to remedy it. Which I would like to start doing." He raised a hand to silence Ashe before she could speak out. "Ah-ah. I will not take no for an answer, but do not worry. I've taken the time to study your habits."

That is not creepy at all.

"I know you are not one for conversation, so how about I offer you some assistance?" Oobleck took a few paper slips from her desk. "I know a certain someone, who shall not be mentioned, lacks what one would deem…responsible work ethic. So, let us get to it shall we?" Quick as a blur, a chair was suddenly on the other end of her desk with papers scattering and fluttering.

Without a chance to retort, Ashe just watched Oobleck in bewilderment. While she was not expecting anything like this, she is not one to dismiss the assistance and distraction. So, with a shrug, she returned to her slow-paced work.

It was much more different than she was expecting. Professor Oobleck was surprisingly quiet and only speaking when it was necessary and no more. Considering his side was a flutter of activity and papers, it was conflicting. At the very least, he made sure to properly stack any and all papers on her side neat and tidy. Ashe was grateful since it made her job much easier with her injury.

There was just one thing she was curious about. "Shouldn't you have a class to lecture?"

Oobleck merely crashed into a halt with a flutter of papers, "I have a free period at this time."

That was all the information she needed. Time flew by without her noticing. The mountain of paperwork shrunk down into something more tolerable. When dusk crept through the windows, Oobleck had already departed after cleaning his area. With a grumbling stomach, Ashe one-armed stretched and left the solitude of Ozpin's office.

She could use some food.

The travel to the cafeteria was uneventful, and that is how she preferred it. Thankfully, she is a light eater, and balancing a tray on one hand was not too difficult. Ashe did manage to see Jaune and Pyrrha. She must have been quieter than she realized. After setting down her tray with a clack, they spooked and jumped in her direction. "Hi."

Pyrrha smiled warmly, but it did not quite reach her eyes. "Hello Ashe, how are you doing?"

Ashe took her seat after straightening her skirt, she really hates wearing the uniform. "Better, thank you. How are you two?"

The strained smile never left Pyrrha's lips, even with a delayed response. "I am doing well. Thank you for asking, and Jaune—"

"Lousy." Jaune sulked to himself and played with his food. "I can't seem to catch a break lately."

The soft sigh of Pyrrha betrayed her mood with a forced smile. Ashe looked around Pyrrha toward Jaune with a perked brow. "Forgot about your homework again?"

"No…" Jaune swirled his fork in his food for a moment before turning to Pyrrha. "Yes? Wait, did we have homework?"

"Just a small essay about regulations." Ashe stuffed her face while Pyrrha cringed at Jaune's groan. "I wouldn't mind helping you."

"Nah, it's fine. I'll just do it myself." He rises with his tray in hand, "I'm heading back first." Jaune left before Pyrrha could respond.

Ashe shrugged her shoulders and focused on her meal. It was not her problem. She was hungry and the apple sauce was delicious. Yes, she was going to ignore the pleading look Pyrrha sent her way. Nothing good ever comes from acknowledging something like that. Ashe ate quietly but the stare from Pyrrha only grew and annoyed her further. It did not take long until she snapped. "What?"

Pyrrha's smile strained further, "Aren't you going to follow him or something? You remember what we talked about, right?"

Nothing came to mind, "Remind me?"

"It was early in the morning and I had brought you breakfast. I asked you a favor in talking with Jaune, don't you remember?"

Ashe chewed in thought, reminiscing about something along those lines, but it was foggy. "Mm…Kinda? I was doped up on drugs for a while." The painkillers worked wonders for the pain in the beginning. She is grateful her arm still has feeling to it. Her recovery is also going along well. She can wiggle her fingers now.

Pyrrha leaned forward to invade Ashe's personal space, "You said you would talk to him." She then took Ashe's small hand into her own larger palms. "Please, it's starting to affect our team and it is getting worse."

The two stared at one another, one pleading while the other apathetic. Ashe felt Pyrrha squeeze her hand once more, pleading. With a heavy breath through the nose, Ashe relents to her pleading. "Fine…I'll go talk to him, but don't expect anything."

"That's all I ask." Pyrrha rose on her feet. "I will keep watch to make sure Ren and Nora don't interrupt. He is most likely in the dorm and working on our assignment. It's about your specialty, so I am sure you could help better than I can anyways."

Ashe watched Pyrrha collect her trash, "Mm."

"I'll see you later. Good luck." With her piece said, Pyrrha left like a woman called on an urgent mission.

It took a while, mostly due to procrastination, but Ashe finished her food and made her way to the dorms. At least that was the plan. It was not long before she found a hand slamming into the wall, preventing her advance. Her bell chimed softly when she recognized her aggressor. The mohawk was at least memorable. "You are in my way."

Russel stared down at her without a hint of emotion. He was alone and without his team. His academy outfit really clashed with what she knew of his appearance and personality. It was strangely well-kept and strait-laced. Though he was silent and kept her under scrutiny.

Ashe attempted to move around, but he shuffled to block her path. Her good hand instinctively flexed into a claw. He obviously had something to say and would not let her through peacefully. "If you have something to say, say it. If not, get out of my way." Now she is cranky, and it is not like she is looking forward to her destination either.

When he did not speak, Ashe could feel her instincts beginning to rev. If there is one thing she hates, it's someone trying to corner her. Thankfully, he removed his hand while finally speaking up. "I want a rematch." Russel shuffled around her and left without any further delay. He said what he wanted and there was nothing else to be said.

She watched him leave, hands within his pockets and a slight hunch. If all he wanted was a rematch, why did he confront her about it? Just call her out during Glynda's sparring session. Unless he just wants her to know its personal. Which is something to be avoided. Letting disputes and training become personal only hinders both parties.

Oh well, she will deal with it later. Regrettably, she has another matter to attend to. Dragging her legs forward, she let the adrenaline run its course through her body before settling down. That did not make knocking on team JNPR's door any easier. A soft grumble granted her entrance into the room.

Ashe found Jaune hunched over a desk and scribbling away. If she was honest, it was quite depressing, but she is not one to talk. "Hey."

He must have not been expecting her. Jaune peeked over his shoulder in confusion. "Ashe? Surprised to see you here. What's up?"

Closing the door behind her, she approached Jaune and peeked over his shoulder at the schoolwork. Exactly how was she supposed to go about this? "Mm…Thought I'd check up on you." Jaune stared at her unconvinced. Neither of them believed that. Clearing her throat, she pointed down at his desk. "What are you working on?"

"Ah, just some stuff from Professor Port's class." He shuffled so she could more easily see over his shoulder with her limited view. She is not short; he is just tall. "I just need to write an essay about tactics, nothing too difficult. It's just not a topic I know." Jaune ruffles his hands through his hair in frustration before dragging them down his face. "That seems to be a common theme around here. I'm starting to think coming here was a mistake."

"Mm, you and me both." Ashe glossed over the subject before tilting her head in curiosity. "Hm…Tactics Against Unsuspecting Grimm?" Her nose twitched at the topic, "Isn't that just fancy wording for ambush?"

Jaune pondered a moment before nodding, "Um, yea, I guess?"

With her one good hand, Ashe brushed her loose bangs behind her human ear with a rising interest. "Were you assigned a certain Grimm, or do you get to choose?"

He stared at her suspiciously, "Uh…Deathstalkers…Why?"

"Didn't you have a run in with a Deathstalker in the Emerald Forest?" Ashe took his paper and read over what little he already had done. "Mm…You could use some help." She placed it back down in disappointment.

"Not you too. Everyone keeps telling me that, but I can do this on my own."

Jaune did not have a chance to go further. Small and warm fingers gripped onto his ear and firmly tugged. "Ow! Ow! What the hell?! Ashe!"

Her expression was masked in annoyance and his whining was unsightly. So, she twisted his ear further, causing a yelp of pain. "Mm, will you stop being stupid. If help is being offered, then accept it. He who asks for help is a fool momentarily, and he who doesn't is a fool forever." Her nose twitched. It was something Elder Smoke and Slappy pounded into her head. Though she still has trouble grasping the concept.

Ashe was not one to lecture about that. She had a bad habit of not asking for help either.

The chime of her bell broke her trance when Jaune smacked her wrist to let go. Releasing his ear from her death grip, Jaune held it tenderly. "I got it! Sheesh, who are you, my mom? That hurt."

With a soft sigh, she rested her good hand upon his shoulder. "Not everyone is lucky enough to have people offer their help. Take it when it's given."

Jaune felt her fingers slide off his shoulder, but he could only stare at her downcast expression. He figured it held a deeper meaning, but he was not sure. "Fine…If you want to help, be my guest. Not like you'll listen anyways."

Her nose twitched while batting onto his shoulder with the back of her fingers. "Mm, glad you understand. Show me what you have so far." Ashe snatched the paper when Jaune offered it to read. It was obvious he either just started or he was struggling. Perhaps both. When she finished reading it over, Ashe stared at him from the corner of her eyes.

Jaune flinched, "What?"

Setting the paper down, Ashe circles the paragraphs with her fingers. "Why are you emphasizing using cover so much against a Deathstalker? You do know their major weakness, don't you?"

"Uh…" He scratched at his head in deep thought. "Major weakness? Um, I don't recall any Professors mentioning Deathstalkers having a weakness…There's no mention of one in our books either."

Ashe scrunched her face in confusion. Why would there be no mention of their fatal flaw? Without a word, she plopped herself on his thigh and glossed over his workbook. It was much easier than looking over his shoulder. At least she did not have to pull up another chair.

"H-hey, what are you doin'?" His hands were up in the air, unsure what to do.

"It's easier this way." Why is he making a big deal out of it?

Jaune kept his hands away, "It kinda hurts."

She stiffed and stared at him, "Are you saying I'm heavy?"

"What?"

"Calling me fat?"

Jaune yelped as a vice grip squeezed onto his thigh, fingernails threatening to pierce through his clothing and skin. "N-no! Light as a feather."

"Mm, now shut up." Ashe turned back to the textbook and tapped it in annoyance. "You read faster than me, is there any mention of their eyesight?"

Resigning in surrender, Jaune sighed and slid the book over for a better view. It did not take him long to gloss over it. "No, why?"

No? Why would vital information be left out like that? Ashe cupped her chin in thought. Why would they purposely leave out a flaw like that? There is nothing to gain from that choice. The only rational answer would be that it was not well-known. If at all. But it was common knowledge for her and the tribe. They did live in the wilderness and survived within the infested lands. Perhaps her knowledge of Grimm was more detailed than she realized.

Ashe leaned back into Jaune's thin frame with a chime of her bell. "Jaune, Deathstalkers are blind."

"Eh? Seriously?"

"Mm, blind or nearly so and they do not rely on sight." Leaning forward, Ashe scans over the words looking over her shoulder. "Are you sure there's no mention of this?"

"Uh, yea. I've looked it over like three times now. Are you sure they are blind?"

She nodded, "Mm, I remember testing it. Just like some scorpion faunus I've met. They are always blind or almost. That's why they are so heavily armored. Instead they use the fur or hairs on their legs to sense movements." A shiver chills through her body at the recollection of a certain scorpion faunus.

"Oh?" Genuine curiosity was in Jaune's voice. "When did you meet some scorpion faunus-Ow!" Jaune's vision blacked and he saw stars. He recoiled and held his nose in pain. "What the hell?!" The back of her head smashed into his face.

Her bell chimed when she all but leapt off his lap. 'I screwed up and said to much.' She should not have mentioned scorpion faunus. The fluttering of papers caught her attention. Collecting them from the air, she haphazardly stacks them back on the desk. "Sorry, thought I felt something crawling on me."

Jaune shakes the stars out of his vision, "No worry…Wouldn't be the first time I've been hit in the face recently."

With a sigh, a small sense of guilt racks her brain. She puts her growing secretary skills to work and begins to organize his papers once again. But something catches her eye. Her lips twisted in confusion and annoyance. "Why do you have another paper with Cardin Winchester's name on it?" That is strange for Jaune to have. Was he planning on doing the work for him? But why? Last she remembered, Jaune could not stand Cardin. Was he bullying Jaune? Before she could continue further, the paper was ripped away from her hand.

Jaune looked angry if not… ashamed? "Don't worry about it. It's none of your business."

Her gloved hand remained opened with a frown upon her face, holding an imaginary paper. That expression looked so familiar. Where has she seen it before? With a soft chime, she shifts toward the glass pitcher of water in their room. Ashe stared into the still water.

A reflection of her childhood stared back. She had a permanent frown upon the lips and her eyes were hollow. So lifeless and without purpose. Weak.

But she grew. She is no longer that weak self. Ashe turned away from her reflection and stared at her gloved hand. "Mm…When I was young…I was looked down on and belittled. Because I was so small." The weak and small were prey for the strong.

Jaune sunk into his chair with a tired expression. "You? I doubt it. I mean, you're strong."

Her lips twisted into a hollow smile. "Mm, I wasn't always. Even now, I have to hold myself back. The culture I was sharpened in would be frowned upon. Killing was not forbidden. Just frowned upon." Thinking back on it, Ashe could not deny how savage she became.

"But…why? That is illegal. The police and military wouldn't—"

Ashe shook her head with a clash of her bell, "The law only applies to those within their walls of safety. Do you really think they care about those on the outside? So long as you don't interfere with their business, they don't care what you do beyond their borders."

Jaune stared at her with disbelief. "What? No way, I don't believe that." He could not believe that. After all, he was raised within the walls and from a family of huntsmen. It stood against what he knew about the world.

She shrugged her shoulders, "Go ask the Professors or Ozpin if you don't believe me. I'm sure they will tell you the same thing." Ashe paused for a moment before tilting her head, "But I'm sure they would sugar coat it."

"If that's true. How did you survive?"

"I adapted. That's all there is to it. You either become the predator or prey." There was no secret or special method. You either get stronger or be a steppingstone for another. "I don't know what's going on with you and to be honest, it's none of my business." She would rather stay out of it, but she was asked by a…comrade. "I can't help you talk back but I can help you fight back."

Ashe gave his shoulder a firm pat. "I'm training with Pyrrha and Ruby on the weekends. Meet with Ruby and have her lead you to me in Emerald Forest. I'm only offering this once. Show up or don't. That's on you." She made to leave the room, but the sound of her name made her pause within the doorway.

Jaune stared at her from his chair, a troubled expression upon his frowning face. "Ashe…Have you killed before?"

That is what he got out of it? The one thing he focused on. Not about the true reality of their world or about the training. No, but about how she grew up in a culture where killing was not forbidden. Her lips strained in a neutral tone with soft lidded eyes, "Good night."

Ashe left without answering his question. There was no need, the answer was obvious. What he does with that knowledge is up to him. Leaning against the door, she sighed with a phantom pain upon her fingernails. Before it could take root, a familiar cold presence approached from her side. Looking up with a chime, she found Weiss approaching her.

"Ashe?" Weiss frowned with the sound of her heels and notebooks in hand. "I don't know which to ask first. Why are you outside JNPR's room or what are you doing out of your room? You are still under Professor Peach's strict orders to stay in bed."

Without her noticing, a tiny smile wormed onto Ashe's lips at her voice. "Mm, just needed to stretch my legs. I was bored and needed to get my mind off things." Being cooped up in a room made her mind wander, and she did not like it.

Weiss paused with her hand upon the door handle. "Professor Peach was looking for you. Did you go for your check-up?"

Ashe shrugged in indifference, "Nn, I forgot."

Weiss rolled her eyes with a sigh, "Wait here." Weiss disappeared into team RWBY's room for only a moment. Ashe did not have to wait long before she reappeared and grabbed her gloved hand. Weiss hardly gave her moment. She dragged Ashe along with a stomp of her heels. "I swear, I don't know who's worse sometimes. You or Ruby. What am I? A glorified babysitter?"

Being led by the hand, Ashe could only follow along with the heiress's whim. She could not exactly retort at the remark and found herself agreeing with Weiss. It is true. She has been relying on Weiss lately. Ashe did not notice the chuckle escaping from her lips as her hand tightened around Weiss's. "Mm, a good one at that."

Weiss peered over her shoulder with a haughty, smug smirk, "Of course. I had the most professional and best babysitter in Atlas after all." Did Ashe just accidently give her something else to swell that ego of hers? Definitely, but that's part of her charm. The cold hand tightened its hold and it made the small smile grow even more.

Sadly, it was short-lived. The infirmary was not that far. Professor Peach was as grumpy as always. Of course, every check-up was just a one-sided scolding. It was fairly routine and ended up with a tiny bag of anti-biotics. The only odd procedure was Professor Peach gliding a finger along her recovering arm. She always had a look of concentration and Ashe's arm would always end up feeling tingly and weird. When she asked, Peach just ignored her and kept doing whatever it is she was doing.

Her arm was healing quickly, so Ashe would not question it further. If it works, what is there to complain about? Peach kept the check-up short, throwing them out with a small bag of anti-biotics. Hopefully, the last batch.

Weiss bid her farewell and all but twisted Ashe's arm to go back to her dorm to rest. Though when she returned, Ashe did not expect to find a familiar person in the other bed once again. "Blake, hello."

Blake peeked over her book, "Evening. How was your check-up?"

"Mm, the same as usual." Ashe went about her business, slowly undressing and getting ready for bed. Should she take her medicine first or after? Laziness won over, and she placed it on the desk and rather do it last. Crawling into bed, she made herself comfortable and glossed over the cover of the next volume for Ninjas of Love.

Spicy.

Tranquility filled the room with an occasional sound of a page being turned. Only when Ashe tilted her hat out of view did Blake speak up. "Hey Ashe, can I ask you something?"

"Mm." Ashe only gave her half an ear. The story was beginning to pick up between Minata and Kushin. Cheesy romance but interesting.

"Why are you always wearing your hat?"

Fingernails dug into the book with a soft crunch at the question. Ashe shifted her gaze to Blake defensively and stiffened. "Because I like it. Why?"

Blake easily picked up on the aggressive mood change. "I was just curious." Closing her book, Blake ran her fingers through her long, black locks. "It just seems like you wear it to sleep as well." She could feel those honey colored eyes digging into her. It gave her an uncomfortable feeling.

Staring her down with scrutiny, Ashe found nothing aggressive with Blake's movements and tone. Only then with a slow breath does she allow her body to relax. "It just makes me comfortable, that's all." And that was true. She has been wearing it for so long, it brings her comfort and peace of mind. Knowing that as long as she is wearing it, her secret of being a faunus is safe.

Turning away, Blake stared down at her lap while playing with the hair at the base of her twitching ribbon. "Comfortable… I see." Without any further words, Blake returned to reading quietly. Ashe's gaze lingered for a moment longer before reading herself.

Within an hour, Ashe heard Blake rise from the bed and quietly approach her door. "Mm, done for the night?"

Blake shrugged, "I'm turning in early." She lingered at the door for a moment, shuffling her feet quietly. Her lips parted to speak, but only a silent breath escaped. Her hand stopped its ascent to her head before dropping down. She had something to say but could not bring up the courage. "Good night." Blake retreated without a response and with her head down.

With a shrug, Ashe turned in for the night. Tomorrow was going to be a boring day. She was to sit around her dorm and recuperate for her return to school.

That was what she thought.

She was awoken to a curt and polite knock on her door, early in the morning. Ashe swore under her breath as it would not leave her alone. Throwing it open with a curse, she found herself having a sense of déjà vu.

"Good morning, Ms. Souris. I see you are doing well." Professor Goodwitch stood prim and proper with her usual stern expression. "May I come in?" Ashe grunted and moved out of the way with a sour expression. "Thank you." As Glynda strode into the room, Ashe's furrowed her brows in confusion at what followed. A mountain of books and papers floated behind the Professor with a faint, violent aura. It all slammed on her desk with a dull thud as Professor Goodwitch turned on heel with her crop behind the back. "I have brought all the assignments that you have missed in your absence."

A pit formed within Ashe's stomach at the sight. The feeling of dread chilled through her bones and she was afraid to ask. "What…are you talking about?"

The riding crop thundered across the desk to get Ashe's attention once more. "Exactly what I said. Professor Peach briefed me on your wellness and your return to classes this coming week. As such, I have taken it upon myself to bring your assignments that you have missed in your recovery. You're welcome."

Ashe found herself speechless and unable to respond. Yet she held the vague suspicion that Glynda was enjoying this. The professor straightened her back and strode out proudly. "I highly advise you get to work. Everything is due first thing next week. Have a wonderful day."

She did not hear the door slam shut behind her and Ashe does not know how long she stood there. Confusion was eventually replaced with anger. She kicked at the desk and threw a few books to the floor with a flop. More and more work, Ashe can feel her stress levels rising. Ashe thought she could have the weekend to relax and train. She has been getting restless lately.

Normally she could handle this amount of work in Ozpin's office. Mainly for the reason she was being paid for it. This is just for academic purposes. Ashe found herself having difficulty finding the motivation to do it, but she did. She only left once for lunch and strangely found herself undisturbed. That was weird, but she chalked it up to Professor Glynda's doing.

The weekend finally approached, and Ashe was excited. Throwing on her combat attire, she raced to the Emerald Forest in search of Pyrrha. She needs to move and work off some energy. And what better way than to spar with Pyrrha? Ashe made extra sure to tighten up her bandages and sling. She found Pyrrha within a matter of minutes, but her mood quickly soured after their exchanged greetings. "What?"

Pyrrha shuffled and cringed at what she was about to say. "I was forbidden from sparring with you this week. Professor Peach wants to make sure you have a full recovery and straining yourself may delay that."

Ashe nearly snapped.

She has so much energy to release but she cannot find an outlet. Pyrrha must have picked up on it because she quickly offered up a solution. "How about I help you stretch and train instead? We may not be able to spar, but I can help you in different ways."

Taking a deep breath, Ashe wills her anger away. All of this pent-up energy is making her more prone to rage. She really needs to vent herself out. "Mm, let's do that."

The two spent their time stretching and talking. Most of the talking was on Pyrrha's side, but Ashe made sure to show that she was listening. It was nice to get Pyrrha's perspective and advise on some of the assignments she received.

Eventually they were interrupted by the usual guest. "Ashe! You actually showed up today! Good morning!" A blob of red and black stood before Ashe with a cheesy smile.

She nodded, "Mm, morning." Something tickled on the back of Ashe's head, like she was forgetting something important. What was it?

Ruby jumped back with a goofy grin and slowly punched the air in a sloppy stance. "I've been so looking forward to this. Pyrrha has been helping me these past few weeks. I can throw a punch now!"

Ashe snorted and was about to take up Ruby on a spar, but the glare Pyrrha sent made her reconsider. "Nn, next week. I am still recovering."

Ruby deflated, "Aw."

The small pause of Ruby kicking at the grass allowed Ashe to remember something. "Where's Jaune?" While she did not give it much thought, she was sure he would come. Who would turn down free training?

Ruby shrugged, "I dunno, I didn't see him this morning. Why?"

Ashe did not respond but instead turned to Pyrrha. She found the redhead looking away and at the ground. "Pyrrha, where's Jaune?"

"I do not know. Jaune said he had other things to do."

"Like what?"

It was Pyrrha's turn to shrug, "He did not say."

Ashe stared before breathing heavily out of her nose. Normally, she would not care about such a manner, but Pyrrha is her companion. "Did you want Jaune to train with us?"

Pyrrha shifted her weight on her legs, "Well, he said he—"

Ashe rudely interrupted, "Yes or no. Would you like him to train with us?"

Lips smacked closed for a tight expression before relenting in a light nod. "…Yes."

The two stared at one another in a silent communication. At least until a certain hooded figure rudely interrupted. "Hey! I'm still here you know. What's all this talk about Jaune? Is he gonna join us or not?"

Ashe nodded, "Maybe. I will go find him. Continue without me, in case I don't make it back." She stretched out her legs before heading out.

Pyrrha waved her off with a small smile, "Thank you."

Ruby pouted before showing a goofy grin. "I'll see you later, and I hope you're feeling better for next weekend. I'm gonna kick your butt."

With a twitch of her nose, Ashe smirked before taking to the trees. The exercise helped loosen her legs and it is where she felt most natural. It also allowed her time to think. Where would Jaune be? She will check his dorm room last because she would rather not bump into Nora. Last thing she needed was to be hounded all day or dragged around by an orange hurricane of energy. So, Ashe went about it the old fashion way.

By searching around the academy on foot.

Ashe started at all the areas he frequented and came up with nothing. She did find a few other acquaintances from afar. Ashe went by unnoticed by all of them except for one. Velvet perked up and offered a tiny wave in her direction before being dragged off by her team. Those rabbit ears are not for show in the least.

It was not long after that she found her target. Surprisingly, he was closed off in a corner of the library in solitude. Jaune sat in a cubicle and worked on schoolwork no doubt. Something she should be doing, but she needed a break. Ashe meant to approach him, but a small group beat her to it. She scowled at recognizing who they were.

"Jauney-boy!" Jaune suddenly found an arm wrung around his neck and pulling him into a headlock. "I've been looking for you, buddy. You haven't been trying to hide from me, right?"

Jaune chuckled desperately at the choke hold. "C-Cardin! Me? Hiding? No, no, you've got it all wrong. Just here doing work for my pal." It was plain to see how uncomfortable he was and how he struggled to break free.

Cardin smirked, "That's what I was hoping for. If you were trying to hide from me. That would have hurt my feelings and I would need to counsel Headmaster Ozpin about things, right?"

In surrender, Jaune hung his head. "Right." A hand ruffled onto his head in humiliation.

"Just what I wanted to hear. Me and the boys will be waiting for those reports. Don't keep us waiting." Cardin shoved Jaune forward against the desk in a power play. Leading his team out of the library in boisterous laughter.

Ashe was beginning to piece things together, but she needed more proof instead of her speculation. Cautiously approaching Jaune from behind, he was hunched over the table in defeat. Kind of pitiful. "Hello, Jaune."

"Oh, hey Ashe. How long have you been here?" Normally he would either startle or jolt at her voice. But his lack of reaction was a bit telling of his mood.

She shrugged, "For a while."

He chuckled and ran his hand over his face, "So you saw that then, huh?"

"Mm."

Jaune sighed and waved her off, "So, are you going to lecture me too? Say that I need to stand up for myself or something? That's all anyone is telling me and it's not like I haven't tried."

Quite an awkward position she has found herself in. "No. I came to drag you to train with us but I'm reconsidering." Would there even be a point? This is not something that simple training could solve.

Jaune perked up in confusion, "What do you mean?"

"Why would I spend my time training or helping you, if you can't even find the drive to do it?" It would be a complete waste of hers and anyone else's time. "If you do not have the will or power to better yourself and fight back, what's the point? Like I said, I do not want to waste my time." Is she being harsh? Most likely, but that is how she was raised. Ashe can only advise on what she knows and grew up with. It is not like she is a philosopher.

It was easy to tell he was getting angry. "So, what? You're just giving up on me?" Where was this anger earlier? Why did he not raise his voice with Cardin?

Ashe's bell chimed when she shook her head. "No, I'm not giving up on you. You've already given up on yourself. Why should I bother?" Jaune flinched at the metaphorical dagger stabbing into his chest. "When you are ready to get stronger, go to Pyrrha. She wants to train with you." If Jaune ever recollected himself to respond, she would not know.

Ashe left before then. Nothing more needed to be said. What would be the point of dragging him to the Emerald Forest if he had no drive? All the training in the world would not help him. Without conviction, he would crumble every time. Maybe she could have been nicer about it, but she did not know how.

Oh well. She returned to her dorm. Her mood was soured and what better way to waste it away by doing schoolwork.

There were plenty of better ways, but it is all that came to mind. Plus, she still had quite a bit to do. By the time she finished, the sun was beginning to set. The loss of time made her hungry. A knock on the door broke her foggy haze. "Come in."

Miyako let herself in with a disposable cup and bag of food. "Hey."

Not exactly someone she was expecting to see anytime soon. "Miyako…what are you doing here?" Were they on visiting terms?

With a chuckle, the barista gave Ashe the goods. "I came to see you, obviously. I came to pick up Peach but figured I would come here first." Miyako made herself comfortable against the bookshelf at the window. "Peach tea and sandwiches, I assumed you were hungry."

"Mm, I was. Thank you." The drink really hit the spot. "What brings you here?"

Miyako drummed her fingers on the furniture before gliding a hand through her hair. "Alcohol would make this much easier…" Though she whispered it, Ashe heard it all the same. "Beating around the bush isn't my style, so I'll just say it. I'm sorry for all the trouble you went through. I should have been a better chaperone."

"Mm, don't worry about it. Things happen." The sandwiches were tasty. Nice and cool for the stuffy room.

"What do you mean, don't worry about it? Of course, I'm worrying about it." The former huntress crossed her arms as her foot anxiously tapped against the floor. "What if you were killed? We all started to believe that. It is normal in this line of work when someone disappears. And it would have all been my fault. I was the one trusted with your well-being."

"And?" Ashe finished half of the sandwich and licked her fingers clean. "What did you expect?"

Miyako perked up and raised her voice, "Expect? I expected better from me. Everyone had all but given up on you coming back. That is not something I wanted for Peach to go through again. I don't know how losing a student would affect her, but I don't want to find out. Her team was bad enough."

Ashe sighed and wiggled the fingers of her healing arm. "What more could you have done? We have never fought or trained together. I did not even know you could fight till that day. Everything about it was a complete mess." Whatever she is involved with tends to go belly up.

"That doesn't change the fact that I—"

"Nn, fine, whatever." She has had enough. Ashe does not want to deal with this. Especially when it was never something she had an issue with. "I don't hold you accountable but if it makes you stop…whatever this is…I accept your apology."

She just wants to finish her sandwich.

Miyako snorted, "Thanks, and I appreciate you being blunt about it. I'm not good with this stuff but I imagined it going much worse." A brief pause, "I keep wondering 'what if'. Ya, know?"

"Mm, don't worry about it." That line of thinking never leads anywhere good. Because there is no answer to 'what ifs'. Ashe waved her off, far more concerned with feasting on the other half of the sandwich. "I don't dwell on 'what ifs'."

'Liar.'

"Yeah, you're right." With an amused scoff, Miyako strode to the door with a small weight lifted from her shoulders. "Oh, there's something else."

With a mouthful, Ashe took a drink to wash it down. "Mm?"

"How did you know my real name?"

Eh?

Ashe stared at Miyako questioningly and confused. "What are you talking about?" When did she ever call Miyako by another name? Pondering in thought, it finally clicks. "Ah…"

Miyako smirks, "Finally remember? Back in Junior's office, you said my name was Choco. Either you knew my real name or that was one hell of a crap shot at trying to keep my current name a secret."

Confusion continued to grow and consume Ashe, "I didn't know that was your real name…It's just the first thing that came to mind from your hair color. Why are you using a different name?"

A back handed wave was sent her way, "Long story short, I made some people upset, and using a different name is easier. So, keep it to yourself. Night." The door closed behind her, leaving no room for a response.

Not exactly something Ashe was expecting. She is growing a headache and her bed is looking comfortable. Chugging her tea, she crawled into bed and quickly fell asleep. Better to deal with it later. If she feels like it. Not like Choco being Miyako's real name concerns her. Ashe has more important things to deal with tomorrow.

Mainly schoolwork.

So, color her surprised when Ashe was called out of her first class to Ozpin's office. But she was not surprised to find him relaxing and not doing any work before he called out to her. "Ah, good morning, Ashe. Just the person I wanted to see. How goes your recovery?"

She yawned quietly and wiggled her fingers and arm a bit. "Well. I don't know what Professor Peach is doing, but its recovering faster than usual." Whatever she is doing, Ashe hopes it continues to heal quickly. "What was it that you needed? I started classes today."

Ozpin slid over a mug that she gladly accepted. "Ah, yes, I'll get right to it then. Do you remember the paperwork and preparations you handled for the field trip to Forever Falls?"

"Mm, I do."

"Wonderful!" He dropped a pile of papers onto his desk with a dull thud. "I just need you to finalize everything here and then it will be scheduled for a few days from now."

A brow twitched, "You are supposed to finalize those. They require the headmaster's seal of approval." There is no way he can just dump his workload on her. Ashe does not have the authority for such things. She instinctively caught the small red object that was tossed in her direction. "What's this?"

"My seal."

"What?" He wouldn't…

Ozpin casually takes a sip from his mug without a care in the world. "I trust you to be responsible. So, make sure to have it all done before lunch. The pilot will be here to collect the paperwork for their end."

She scowled and clawed up the files, "Nn, not sure if I should be flattered or annoyed."

"Why, Ashe, I am shocked." The smirk never disappeared as he circled his desk to the elevator. "To think you would feel annoyed at such a generous showing of trust. Truly, this is something you deserve and in no way am I just…throwing this on you. Just so I can attend the bake sale in Vale. Never would I abuse my honorable position in such a manner! Oh, look at the time. I'd get started if I were you. Ta-ta." The elevator doors closed behind him.

Her stare lingered for only a moment with a heavy sigh following behind it. Of course he would thrust his work load on her. Plopping into her chair in defeat, Ashe was debating if she should put laxatives in his drink later.

'Yes.' Fairy would jump at the thought.

Even if they knew he would not fall for it. He put bloodhounds to shame when it came to sniffing out his beverages and its temperature. On the bright side, she could at least give her injured arm a test run. After all, shuffling papers around does not require much effort.

It was an awkward feeling to use it after a while. But getting into a rhythm of just sliding papers around exercised her muscles. Perhaps she should have started using it more and removed the bandages and sling sooner. Whatever Professor Peach was doing, really sped her recovery rate up.

By the time she finished her work, it was nearing noon and the pilot had yet to arrive. Deciding to train her dexterity and flexibility, she used her fingers to twirl a pen between them. Ashe can not afford to let that deteriorate. It was a main focus in her style.

It was not long until the elevator hummed at the sound of a visitor. With a ping, the doors opened to reveal the pilot. He looked a bit plain to her. A standard brown aviator's jacket, jeans and boots. He approached her with a stoic and neutral expression. Some stubble of facial hair and brown hair that reached a bit below the ear. Ashe assumed he was in his mid to late twenties or so.

But as he grew closer, she noticed something else.

He had a brown tail. It looked canine, but she was not sure what kind. Most of them look similar to other animals. "Mm, can I help you?"

He gave her a once over before looking around the office in annoyance. "Yea, I'm looking for the big-wig. Supposed to be picking up some documents for the yearly trip."

"Nn, he's not here at the moment—"

"Yea, I noticed that."

Ashe continued as if he did not interrupt her, but with a scowl. "I have the files here and ready for you."

"What? Is he too good to meet someone like me?" He took the files in hand and flipped them open to scan over.

Ah, he is one of those kinds of Faunus, aggressive. "No. He had a meeting to attend and left me in charge in his absence." She lied as easily as she breathed. Ozpin better bring her back something as well for covering for his ass. "Anything else I can do for you?"

Without a word, he sets the files down and takes her pen without asking. Her eyes narrowed at the disrespect, but she let it slide for now. Right now, she is a representative for Beacon. A poorly selected one, but one none the less.

"Nah, everything's good. In fact, I had originally planned to take them back first, but he chose the area we were going to recommend." Finishing his signatures, he slides the files in her direction haphazardly and tosses the pen on the desk. "Guess he's not the headmaster for nothing. Not many people know about that spot in Forever Falls. Makes my job easier. At least now I have time for a drink before going back to HQ. See ya, girly."

"I'll let Professor Ozpin know the Pompous Pilot stopped by."

The elevator doors opened as he turned to stare at her. Ashe returned his gaze with her own, challenging him. With an amused chuckle, he turns away into the elevator. "Yea, that's fair." He left without fanfare, leaving her once again, alone.

'You could have said something better than that.'

Ashe scowled and cleaned her desk off before putting the files on Ozpin's desk. She would rather not say something too vulgar and cause a bigger scene. But she should work on that snap back of hers. It will probably get her in trouble one day. She made sure to wait before she left the office.

Better than accidently bumping into that guy again. That would just be awkward, and it is time for lunch anyways. If she hurries, she should be able to catch her acquaintances and join them for lunch. Maybe something cool will calm her down a bit instead of a warm meal. A few students wandered the halls, but most were gathered in the cafeteria.

Putting her lunch together again, she surveyed the crowded room for anyone she recognizes. Of course, she was spotted first. Nora stood and flagged her down with a goofy grin. How the girl does that, she will never know, but it is a nice feeling. Looks like all of team RWBY and JNPR were together. Ren attempted to quell the energetic girl, but he failed. They were all dressed in their combat attire as well.

Earning the gaze of Weiss brought a tiny smile to Ashe's face. Her wave was small and curt, a gesture of the fingers, but she noticed it. As she approached closer, Jaune stood up and was arguing with Pyrrha. Over what, she was not sure, but the redhead had a worrisome expression on her face.

Their eyes did meet, but only briefly.

"Ow, that hurts!"

Ashe snaps to the familiar voice of distress and what she saw made her blood boil. Velvet was being held by her sensitive bunny ear and by none other than Cardin Winchester.

They were laughing at her.

The girl who was kind to her. The teen that was gentle with everyone and kept to herself. The Faunus who helped her when no one else did. Velvet wouldn't hurt a fly if it wasn't a Grimm.

Velvet whimpered, "Please, let go."

Cardin yanked harder and turned to his posse, "See, told you they were real."

"What a freak." They all laughed at her, but not just them.

Almost everyone was laughing at her. Few kept quiet but did nothing and only watched on. They put their heads down and averted their eyes. It was not their problem. Why should they get involved? They would rather let the gentle Velvet suffer alone. Even team RWBY and JNPR kept quiet and watched on. That is why Blake, Weiss, and Pyrrha desperately rushed to stand and reach for her.

They heard the sound of the tray, crashing against the ground. Porcelain shattering against the hard marble. Because just like the porcelain, Ashe cracked. Impulse and instinct raged through her veins. The fingers brushing against her sleeves failed to hold her back.

She saw red.

Cardin did not even get to fully turn to the thunderous crash of porcelain. Her foot snapped upward in righteous fury. Pain erupted from his chin, wood cracked beneath him as the table flipped and crashed into the ground.

By the time everyone realized what was happening, the massive window shattered at the armored body being launched through it. Forcing his eyes open, Cardin felt a small body landing on his chest.

His eyes met hers.

They were glowing red and rage stormed within. With a hand raised in a claw to shred; there was only one thing pumping through her mind.

'Kill him.'

(A/N)

I'm alive! Sorry this one took way too long. Life has just been really hectic lately and there's not much time for me to do anything now days. Hopefully I can get back into the rhythm of writing again and the next chapter will not take so long.