A/N

Ello all! been mighty busy over on my end both with reorganizing my master document into smaller more manageable docs. Mainly taking out the part that now allows me to better organize the story. EG i had character bios that i constantly had to add more to, but now I have characters per arc so that makes things much easier.

Now you may have noticed that I added a new series of numbers to help organize the chapter for you. I would like if you could give me an opinion regarding their helpfulness. Any additional advise on my writing is always welcome so feel free to hit me. Now I do have one reservation that has been bugging me. Granted I'm comfortable writing chapters of this length, but it occurred to me that writing and reading are different. I may have a great device now for generating content, but as far as how to package it I'm still finding my way. For example with chapters 17-19 I wanted to write chapters roughly the same length and I can. What I'm debating is keeping this moment by moment approach or trying to just have smaller moments. I know there must be some benefits to doing this so I will try that with chapter 20 once I get there unless these upcoming chapters seem like a good test bed once I go from begin transferring my outline into a chapter. Granted some chapters may be more suitable for shorter instances , but as for how I would rewrite 17 I wonder how you would break that up.(any tips would be appreciated) Some topics are easier to do that with, but I do feel I'm overlooking something. Anyway enough on my end here. I hope this chapter finds everyone well so enjoy.


(Schnee) Arc:

Ch. 17:Et nunc est in schedule

-The only thing that has been changed today is you! You opened our doors,led our enemies, and slaughtered our people after we welcomed you with open arms! The only benefit of this Is I now know you are a wolf in sheep's clothing!-


1

Mr. Clutch's POV

I sign off on another piece and place it on one of the ever increasing stacks to my left. I pick up the next document and notice its a request from the doctor…

I scan the request and notice that it is a follow up for the boy's examination. Very well. I sign off on it.

The request goes into a folder near the primary stack and I reach for the next paper.

Its another request from the doctor? I cooly scan how this one is different from the last and notice it is referring to the young miss. I stop there after finding out who it was for and lift my attention to the top of the examination request form to carefully go through it once more.

Blood samples, Mr. Laufer's physical exercise examination results on the young miss, full health and body examination,a pre-aura unlock examination…hmm assuming we go through with the unlocking this will be one of the last. Very well. The doctor also wishes to have access to the eldests medical files dating from now back to three years prior to her own unlocking.

That last bit may take time considering her… problematic ties to the Altesian military and that Ironwood. Mr. Schnee did say that I give the doctor some leeway and If I do not do it he will, but will likely make matters more problematic considering his nature. Well he will get his files. Now to leave the task to Mr. Baud or Mr. Peat.

I will go with the economic hand first. I make note to contact Mr. Peat's secretary and write down a memo in my work journal.


2

Now to contact Mr. Laufer…

I pull out my scroll and find Winter Retreat Gym Instructor ,make the call, and set it to speaker before placing it on the table.

It rings four times before he picks up.

" Mr. Clutch ?"

"Yes it is I, Mr. Laufer I have need of your results from the physical examination."

"Alright well-"

"I need a document and any data you have as well"

"I can do that , would you like me to summarize the results for you as I organize them for you?"

I look at the papers I have yet to do, then my watch. It's 9pm.

"You have ten minutes."

"Yes sir, in regard to your initial assessments they were close to the mark."

"Close?"

"Yes sir, The young miss performed well considering the amount of time it has been since she last had any was well aware of her condition as she kept herself within her comfort zone. That is not to say that she didn't get a workout, but she kept herself out of harm's way.

"I didn't ask for her condition. How did she perform relative to her previous results?"

"She was substandard as you anticipated. She even avoided doing weapon drills after openly wanting to do them, this was of course after the exercises had been concluded."

"So she failed to stick to even her own plan?"

"As I said she decided against the weapon drills she had previously wished to do after she did the test regimen that You, and I agreed on."

"I see, and have you formulated a progression chart for her assuming she is capable of meeting the pace we set for her?"

"It is within reason, time is short though so we will have periods where she is pushing herself harder."

"She shouldn't have gotten lax in her duties in the first place."

" Now remember you left me with the objective of having her ready to meet the standards set. How I go about that is something you and Ms. Gretel left to me when I was initially hired."

"Of course, I just don't expect you to go easy on her."

"No need to worry about that now. Now back on topic, She can maintain a slower pace easily, but may struggle with long sprints."

"That can be remedied."

"It can, but I believe she is ill suited to that style of exercise. She is far better at pacing herself if she holds herself back a little. I hope to work her there and let it trickle into her ability to sprint.

"I see you have a plan for her, very well no need to tell me the rest, send a copy of the data to the doctor and I."

"Yes sir."

"Mr. Laufer... I fail to see how this was outside my expectations, she was expected to be weaker than before."

"Yes, but I think her mentality may have improved due to diligent studies or perhaps she has matured a little."

"The young miss is a child , she will likely still be impulsive and irritable as usual."

"True, however she did take her first exercise in a while seriously, which is promising, considering said behavior. Also as you have told me many times, she is a schnee."

"On that note do you still have Winter's files from when she was training."

"I should?"

"Good, send everything to me. I need to go through it and send some to the doctor"

"I take it that includes the medical files I was given?"

"I said everything."

"yes sir, now then the boy you asked me to test with the young miss performed… oddly."

"..."

"He had a tendency to push himself and seemed more interested in moving on the staircase machine and running the track."

"That qualifies as odd?"

"No that doesn't , but he was clearly pushing himself beyond what would normally be his comfort zone,as if he were an animal that had been kept in a pin for too long. There was a one point where he collapsed and just refused to get up. There are other things, but they don't directly relate to his physical exam so I will add in a supplemental report."

"Was it enough to set a progression chart?"

"Yes, but I believe that the first chart, which assumes he maintains this level of energy , is highly unreliable. The second chart will push him, but will see growth. This is better than the first as It would eventually hit unrealistic expectations for one his age assuming we followed it."

"That is for his doctor to decide now, and then. Coordinate your efforts with Doctor Aquarius . Maintain the first chart for the time being. Substandard is useless, and is not what I want from him. Remember I set the Goal."

"Yes sir."

"Now then I have your timetable set up. You should be getting it before the night is over."

"Thank you sir, now I also have need of new fencing uniforms."

I wait for the instructor to continue.

"This is for the miss."

"...Very well. I would however, like to know why this wasn't done when you left for Flachland."

"Well sir, specialty goods such as fencing uniforms are not what you would find in a town that specializes in tourism and summer festivities."

"I will have the uniforms ordered."

My scroll beeps as it finishes the download.

"I have the data, is this all?"

"You should have everything, except for the supplementary report."

I ran my eyes over the data, noting the charts that estimated the young miss's progress. I sighed.

"Sir?"

"That will be all Mr. Laufer. I now have the last thing I need for the schedules."

"You already accounted for Mr. Schnee's instructions? What of the paperwork?"

I looked at the pile I had been working on while conversing with Mr. Laufer.

"That shall be finished before the night is over."

"Do you…"

"No need... This is my task to do, you worry about yours once I send you your timetable."

"yes sir, need anything else?"

"No, you're free to continue your work.I will contact you tomorrow morning."

"yes sir."

The call ended. I continued to go through the report. The young miss did perform… differently than anticipated, She was out of shape as we thought. In relation to her projected performance she was below even that, even when you included the lower range of estimates. She was however far more consistent with her performance. Very well. I shall give time to prove his point.

The boy was almost a mirror opposite of the young miss. He showed little restraint in how he exercised, specifically when sent to run laps. He blew past our projections. Now Mr. Laufer will be trying to keep that pace as I instructed for the time being. The young miss is better off being played safe, but the boy…

I close the file and set aside the papers as I begin to finish my work on the schedules.

Once both of the new schedules are finished I create a clean copy of it, scan it with my scroll and send it to the estate staff.

"Good, now I just-"

Knock knock

I glance over to the door before looking down and grabbing a paper from the stack.

"Enter."

The door opens and several people walk in. An older man, whom I recognize as a team leader due to the circular insignia with a hole on his collar, nods at me before letting those behind him inside.

I look up again and recognize the night shift, with their utility belts ,caps, and uniforms that differ from that of the maids and butlers of the day shift. The letters W.R. are just above Staff , and clearly written in white bold on the back of their black attire.A smaller identifier is woven into the cloth just above their left breast pocket that reads the same.

the leader walks to me and begins in a quiet tone. "Do you need me to assign someone to help with the papers?"

"yes,but these papers here are for me. I will finish this pile here, you may begin with the piles on the other desks."

"Yes sir." the chief then looked back toward the rest of the night shift sent to relieve me. "Alright everyone take a seat. Find some papers and get to work."

The rest of the team take seats and begin to quietly work. The leader heads over to each table, inspecting the work, before he too takes a seat.

With that I continue to work , slowly and with focus. Hmm aren't these files that a secretary would normally process? Do we not have one? I stop for a moment and retrieve a folder from a cabinet. Standing next to it I browse the contents till I find what I'm looking for. Right we fired that one for making things more difficult with the young miss. That and Jacques refused to have a new one assigned to her that didn't pass screening. Hmm. the screening process is probably just taking time. Oh well. I'll just manage things here for now till Jacques needs me for something. He will just call me as always once something is 'needs dealing with'. Till then let's enjoy a relaxing night with the paperwork and possibly get some sleep.

I put the folder back into the cabinet and make my way back to the table. Perhaps some secretaries for Jacques's are in order if he is going to have me stay here for… however long he intends. I will draft that tomorrow , then search for suitable personnel.

I walk over to the chief and stop nearby.

The team leader looks over to me.

"Yes Sir?"

"When your people finish once I leave, make sure to have them leave copies on the desk for me to review, any papers that need to be delivered should, after the copy is made. That is all."

"Yes sir."

I relax in the chair and begin to continue going through the documents.

I debate tea, but decide against it , instead opting to finish my work and go to bed… which should take another hour.


3

Heiter's POV

I fell.

I fell?

Yes I fell, slowly though as if through something. I couldn't quite put a word to it, but frankly I was too tired to care.

I wonder..

What do I wonder?

I wonder why I am so tired, so dar-

Oh right. I'm in the abyss. What was I thinking for a minute there? Let's see where am I today?

No idea, just more of the same mysterious black as I fall.

I do nothing , and by doing so I mingle with the abyss as I fall deeper into it, letting strands of it softly wrap around me as it embraces my being.

The strings continue to embrace me till so many do so that I no longer feel strands, but a single soft… sheet that wraps around me. Impossibly comfortable and just… right.

I can feel it, but I can't see it. The strands are but one of many things that I pass through, some stick like the strands, some mingle and others I can only sense as I pass them by.

All these sensations…

They…

Feel…

I blink...


4

I look at the ceiling as I wake up, sweating for some reason.

I look to the right and see a pale light shining through the window.

...right the moon...moonlight...right…

I groggily look at it as I see the open curtains catch some of it at the edge of the window.

Hmm?

Something feels wrong.

I look around and see nothing out of place… I see where the moonlight partially illuminates the area to my right, and the area to my left.

I move, but abruptly stop as I distinctly feel what is wrong in my legs.

I stay still, slowly moving, little by little to tease out something and try to get comfortable again. I fail and curl myself up in a ball as I try to squeeze the pain out of me, but no matter what I seem to do there is a pain that aches throughout my lower limbs.

I twist and turn as I try to settle into a position that limits my pain, but ever since waking up pain seems to accompany every position I take.

I continue meekly until eventually the pain stops , or perhaps I adjust to it. Why does it hurt so much? It just… penetrates my limbs.

A sigh escapes me as I finally have time to think about something other than the pain. It's quite dark, but.. I'm up, especially after being woken up like this.

Nnnng.

I roll over and hop out of the right side of the bed,wincing, but make my way over to the window.

The land outside is dark, only illuminated by the moon. Everything covered in shadow is impossible for me to see aside for the outline of the shadow itself. I can make out the … the…

I frown as I try and pull the word out.

Its frustrating. I know it, yet I don't.

I drum my fingers on the window sill. I know… that I know the word, yet I can't remember it.

Cour…

Hmm.

Cour something.

I could try some sounds till I get it?

Courb, Courc, Courd

I slowly sound out some potential words in my mind, but none ring a bell.

Courl, Courm ,Courn… Corn? No keep going.

Cours, Court.

Court?

Mnnnnn.

Its right, but not quite.

OH!

Alright dum dum it's courtyard.

Now why am I wondering about that word?

Is that even the right word?

Mmmm.

I don't think so?

Isn't… Isn't a courtyard… inside a building? Yes? Sometimes?

I mean if i remember when I got in the flying thing then…

Oh that was so much fun…

No no. no distractions.

When I was inside the flying thing. I saw a path when we were on our way back that led to that patio.

I guess that makes this side of the house the front? So that must be… A driveway? OHH I got it on the first try! Well actually it came without me having to fight for it , but all the same I'm happy about that.

Speaking of which, I never got a good look at it yesterday. I glance down and note that it's a circular driveway with a small building connected to a larger one off to my right and the main entrance at a gate out in the distance.

Ok not so mysterious mystery solved.

I turn around and look across my bed to the door, doing so made my body remind me why I was being stiff after waking up at this unknown hour.

With a feeling of soreness that had replaced the weightless sensation from the gym… wait no that was for some of the exercises. I shook my head as I made my way around the bed to the door.

The floor is soft…no the rug is soft. I walked around toward the end of the bed until something hit my leg at an odd angle , making me jump back in pain , which then made every other muscle give me their share.

My eyes waters as the pain hits me and I fall down onto my rear.

I look for what hit me and spot only the chair.

I squeeze my right leg. Great I can barely see right now. I knew the chair was here and yet I still hit it.

I squeeze my leg tighter one more time and stand up, slowly and hold my knees for a few moments before I walk. I wish I knew how weiss made the lights work. Something about dust I think.

Maybe there is some light in the hallway?

I stop in front of my door and open it slowly to see only darkness. I… I can't even make out her door? The light coming from the window is all I have.

It's too dark. I take a step back and close the door it shut. Maybe another time.

No I need to do this.

I open the door again and walk, but only as far as the light from my room allows. Why is it so dark!

I will myself to move toward weiss's door, but can't. I'm stuck. I can't move deeper into the shadows for some reason. I hadn't noticed it , but my heart and head were pounding. I…

I'm going back to bed. I run back into my room and jump on the bed, somehow ignoring my pain.

Right then go back to sleep.

I look at the ceiling.

There was no point to what I just did. It's nighttime and Weiss is asleep. Being woken up when you don't want to is something I don't like!

I… look out to the door and realize something. I left it open.

Its open. It's dark. I listen and I hear nothing. I get under the covers and sink further into them so that they cover my head. I close my eyes and focus on falling asleep, but I'm constantly aware of the door.

I frown and pop my head out of the covers.

The bed is pretty big, so I have that going for me. I look at the door and feel something quicken in my heart. Just close the door. Simple right?

3..2..1..

I didn't move.

Please? Just close!

I stare at the door, despite knowing somewhere in my mind it won't unless I get out of bed.

Its better if the door is closed so just...

CLOSE IT!.

I jump out of the bed and push the door ,slamming it shut.

Ha.

Ha.

Ok!

Back to bed.

I hop in and gaze at the door, feeling much better with it closed again.

but wouldn't that something then just be on the other side of the door?

I ignore that thought and look at the moonlight as it casts itself across my room and then spot my robe in the chair.

I want that.

I hop out of the right side of my bed and grab the white and black robe before turning to face the bed.

It's kinda dark under my bed…

Umm…

I run and jump into the bed with the robe and quickly get under the covers.

I pull it partially under the covers with me and hold it under my right arm as I form it into a makeshift pillow.

I look at the moonlight and watch it for a moment as I wonder about the darkness under my bed.

I have a strange sensation that something is watching me…

"You're in one of the safest places in remnant, there is nothing to fear."

I squeeze the silver sheets underneath the dark blue bed sheets, as if to somehow hold onto Mr. Clutch's words and presence.

Right… No tricks. There is nothing under my bed. Its o-

The bed squeaks as I move and I freeze,tightening both my muscles and my teeth as I clench them as the pain hits me.

It's fine, it's fine. Everything is going to be ok. Just go to sleep. Nothing to fear.

No pain no pain no pain...

I move again, but slower. Something in, or under the bed squeaks and my heart quickens.

It's fine!

Its…

Fine!

I look at the moonlight. Then the robe. Right. I pull it in tighter and curl up.

The bed squeaks again.

I… Fi…

...


5

I fell , blind to whatever I was falling though. It was something that simply got caught up with me. It simply wrapped itself around me and continued with me. The strings were small until their numbers grew to once more hold me.

I gazed outward to see a black emptiness that held very little. There was nothing to see. There was something to feel, and that provided comfort.

I felt the soft strings that had caught me. They had caught me, yet when I moved to touch them I passed through.

Right… I can't touch them. Oh well. It's always been that way. I had just forgotten.

How much had I forgotten?

Something? Everything?

Had there been anything to in the first place?

My questions of course were unanswered. All was silent in the abyss.

Perhaps I ask only…

I continued to fall. Blanked by strings. If they slowed me down or changed my course I never knew. The only thing I felt aside the strings was the sensation of descending.

That was the only way I knew what was going on. Because whatever was in front of me quickly became lost in the great expanse above me.

In front of me?

I think so…

I'm partially in the mass beneath me. The portion I can feel below me supports me, yet somehow i am sinking into it.

Sinking to a new…

A new…

An old…

?


6

I wake up.

I woke up?

I blink , feeling the sensation of drowsiness in me, and not the pain I had in the middle of the night.

Ohh that was relaxing.

The covers rustle as I stretch my legs out and twist my body before raising my hands to the white ceiling.

Hmm?

Something was on my right arm.

I blink the drowsiness away,accustom my eyes to the light and focus my attention to my arm and notice the white and black robe.

Oh.

I grab it with both hands and raise it towards the ceiling. It's too big for me to completely lift it so most of it is still on me.

I stretch my arms with the action and look at it ,giving my eyes the opportunity take in the item.

I smile and bring it back to hug before sitting up.

I look to the right and see the dawns dark blue sky outside my window. The sun must be somewhere to the… left considering the angle?

I want to see it.

I twist and push myself out of the bed, robe in tow in my right arm.

Once my feet touch the rug I walk over to the window and peek over the windowsill. I put my hands on the edge and look to the left.

Yup there is the sun. Or is that the edge of it? I gaze at the ball that isn't quite. The sky is a calm shade of dark blue as it's not completely lit yet. The sun is somewhere over the horizon.

Hmm. Its pretty.

I listen to the quiet as I gaze at the horizon.

It's… a calming sort of color.

My gaze softens at the sight and I close my eyes for a moment.

Hmm!?

I see light red and blue spots!

I open my eyes. No they are still there!

Whaaaat.

What are they?!

I follow them with my eyes and turn around.

They don't stop going to the right!

Round and round I go, trying to follow them.

Where are they goi- Where are they?

They disappeared?

Well that was… new.

I smile.

What was that about?

I notice my chest beating harder after all of the spinning.

Ok lets get back to the bed…

I take a step, another, and then for some reason I almost fall over as I lose my balance.

Woooooooo.

I'm assailed by a strange sense which keeps me from standing straight.

Ohhh.

What to do.

This feels weird.

I quit trying to make it to the bed and just sit down on the floor.

Better.

Slowly the sense leaves me and I get up again.

I pat myself down and then smile.

Ok! Everything is a-ok!

Now then…

What am I doing today?

Hmm…

No idea, let's ask Weiss. She usually tells me what today is.

I walk around the bed and to the door, still carrying my robe in my hand.

The door opens and I walk into the partially illuminated hallway. The light from my room is much better this time, and not necessary now since some of the lights are on.

I walk up to her door and grasp the handle and push it softly.

Hmm. It's not stuck like last time.

I walk inside, appreciating the shinier things that weiss has about.

Hmm?

Now where is Weiss?

I look at the table and check behind the door, but then an idea hits me and I look there.

Ah.

I see a lump underneath the blue sheets in the bed. It's a bit taller than mine so I have to peek to see anything.

Yup. That's Weiss.

Although she has her back turned to me as she is rolled over on her right, her head is cradled in a white pillow.

Hmm. Ok if she wants me in front then I can do that.

I walk around the bed, making sure to skirt the small table she has at the end of it.

Once I'm on the other side I peek over the bedside again and see her face.

Oh!

She's asleep!

I back away for a moment before peeking over the edge again.

Yup, definitely didn't wake her up.

Umm.

What do I do now?

Do I wake her up?

I could?

Nonono. I hate being woken up so she must too.

Well what do I do now?

I debate something as I look at weiss's face as it is covered slightly in shade since the sun doesn't shine into this room at this angle.

She moves and I freeze.

She moves, but only the way a sleeping person would.

I exhale softly.

I look at her face for a moment.

Sleeping people have such peaceful expressions on their face.

That feels like a good sleeping face.

I enjoy and share in the moment.

I stand, move my hands and lightly put them on the bed ,fold them before placing my chin on them.

I can't quite place the feeling, but it's just peaceful seeing other things sleep.

She moves again, but this time I don't freeze.

I wonder, do I move when I sleep? I mean when I'm sleeping I…

The abyss comes to mind. Calm, comforting, quite. It's a peaceful place.

Well not the same?

Wait, does that mean it's not peaceful?

I frown, but the expression disappears when I look at Weiss.

It's a different kind of peaceful.

I exhale.

I stay like that for awhile, watching weiss breath and just enjoying the peaceful moment.

I wonder what her abyss is like.

Well I can only find out if I ask her.

Oh right.

I came to ask what I was doing today…

I gaze at her as her form slowly rises and falls.

Hmm. well nobody is waking her up when she is sleeping so nicely. I know my sleep and this is good sleep!

Almost makes me want to go back to sleep, but I don't want to be woken up by someone…

She would probably feel the same so I guess that's another reason not to wake her up.

I nod to myself.

Well…

What would she have me to do?

I think.

Well first she would have me get changed out of my sleep wear.

What then?

I tap my first finger against my left arm as I note getting changed.

Then,food, a tour, or…

The White Rose, she did mention something about a key.

Hmm. Which one…

I would like food…

I wonder what it would be?

But I have no idea how to get it.

What about the tour?

I guess? But wait that defeats the purpose of a tour? Weiss would have to be up and I can't give myself one. Well I could explore, but that would also go against what I promised Weiss.

I could try exploring places that aren't places?

Maybe.

I could do the White Rose though. I actually know how to get there and I know what I'm looking for.

Can I communicate with Mr. Laufer though?

Mmm.

No.

Ah wait. I think I know how to ask for the key.

Right. Ok well if it fails I just come back here and wait, or take a nap.

I mean something has to happen today.


7

Well first I need to get into something warmer than my white, and kind of shiny, sleepwear?

Hmm.

I run my hand along the smooth cloth for a moment as I inspect it.

I enjoy the sensation. It's like carrying part of the bed with me.

Right I do need to get changed though.

I peek back over at weiss one last time and just watch.

Yup. That is some good sleepy time.

Right then!

I quietly walk around the bed and make my way to the door, which I close slowly on my way out. It gets hard to close at the end because something is sticking out of the door. Oh right just close it harder…

Wait.

Doesn't harder equal louder?

Umm.

OH!

If I twist it like this then the thing goes inside the door.

And then…

Good!

The door closes without making a sound and I proudly walk back into my room.

Now to get changed...

First!

I walk around the bed ,enjoying the sensation of the carpet that is in the rooms. Honestly the stone in the hallway is cold.

Cold like the air?

Yes.

The air is cold for some reason ... and there is a wind coming from nowhere...

Oh well another mystery.

I stop in front of the chair on the right side of the end of my bed. I take a moment to partially fold, then place the robe over the back of the chair.

And next is my clothes.

I hop with satisfaction and move to the dresser across from my bed and take a seat before I open it, sorting my clothes as I retrieve the pair from the top and then my underlayers.

Oh right I have something other than what I wore with the coat.

I pick up the slightly thicker white shirt , then the same white pants I pull out my black shoes and then my white underlayers. Oh right I need the grey socks. I set those next to me and then check that I have everything.

Shirt. Check!

Pants. Check!

Pants that go in pants. Check!

Socks. Check!

Shoes those socks go in. Check!

Yup thats everything.

Alright pick everything up and place it on the bed. Now to get out of this…

I unbutton the sleepshirt I have and then shake it off, before doing the same with my sleep pants.

No button for my inner sleep pants, but off they go as well.

With that everything I don't need is on the floor.

I pick it up and place it in the chair as that seems to be what works.

I turn around back to the bed and grab my inners first and step into them as I hold them low. The pants are easier as I can hop a little to get them on, before buttoning it.

The white shirt doesn't have buttons like my sleep shirt or other , slightly thinner shirt.

Next is my socks, which I hop on the bed to get on as I bend my knees before pushing them into the grey socks as I discovered it's harder to put them on away from me.

These socks are so fluffy.

Now then the black shoes.

I hop off the bed, step into them and move around.

Alright good to go?

I nod.

Yup!

Oh but first close the dresser.

I walk back across the bed and gently kick the bottom closed.

With that done now i'm good to go.

Now then, how to get there…

I've been wondering something since yesterday.

I exit my room.

I look to the left, then the right.

Well I could use this chance to do some exploring right?

I make my way down the hallway to the right.

I stop every now and then look at paintings of places.

I mean I haven't seen this from the tower.

I walk my way down, wondering things.

Like what if the walls could tell me what they see, or… Are these paintings all places?

Because some of them have very nice views.

One in fact is something I recognize.

I look at a picture of a glass floor with fish in it.

The floor lacks the chairs and tables, but I think that's the restaurant where I ate?

Well if this one is a place I know then maybe the others are of ones I don't know?

Ah well there is a picture or a silver vase with a single white flower.

Then a picture of a room with a giant snake… Wait a stone snake.

Then a place that looks like a frozen temple.

Hmm.

Always white, silver, or blue somewhere.

I rub my chin. I guess that's a running theme here. I stop and look down at myself.

I mean the only thing I have that isn't are my shoes.. Oh and my socks.

The stone floor here is white.

Hmm.

Yup.

I continue as I appreciate more pictures.

A silver room… with a white piano?

Hmm?

Is that…

Is that Weiss?

I mean it's hard to make out , but I think , wait no.

She looks slightly different.

Well someone with white hair is playing on the piano.

Wait… I'm an idiot.

It's clear now, there are two people.

I just couldn't make them out against the sunlight.

So someone drew two people that look like weiss?

I frown at the picture, confused.

Why?

I mean technically if you look at the silver floor that acts like a mirror, there are four people, but…

Maybe it's just a drawing?

Of…

Weiss as she gets older?

Or…

I pat my shoe against the stone floor as I try to find something.

Maybe I'm having problems because people are in the picture.

Besides one of the girls has a sharper expression. Weiss does have a sharp expression, but not like that.

Then again I have known her for. I bring out my hands and count.

One...Two...Three days?

So technically I'm on my fourth day.

Or is it three and a half?

Well let's ignore this it's giving me a headache.

I walk further down and see more things and marvel at them until I take the bend in the hallway.

I then skip down the hallway to the stairs, which I go down the first flight, take a right, then the second flight.

A few steps later and I'm at the front door.

I creek it open and close it behind me.

I'm outside!

I look across the porch, spot a chair that rocks, the front yard and more hints of the sun. it's still hiding somewhere.

Now then if I follow my sense of… Its cold. Mmmm…. I grip my sides as I look back to the door.

No I'm already outside! I'm not going back inside to change, it would waste my chance.

The porch heads over to the right. I wonder…

I make my way over, following the planks of wood as they make smooth and clearly defined rectangles along the way.

There actually isn't all that much on the porch itself, but a garden and some smaller statues are off to my left, although… It's too cold for them right now.

Eventually the porch bends to the left as it follows the wall. I pass some windows along the way, but skip looking inside as that is part of my 'tour' that weiss promised me.

The bend then curves to the right after following the wall for a shorter distance and once I round the corner I see that the path continues straight for a similar stretch, but it leads to a wall?

Wait…

The path stops here, but the wall keeps going to a larger building, which I can just make out another even larger building behind it.

But why…

Oh.

There is a passageway that leads under the wall here.

I tentatively take steps down the stone staircase to find the ceiling, which is the floor of some room, is supported by nine columns that are spread out in a… two by four format encircling one in the middle. Once I hit the bottom of the staircase I go through the hallway and spot a set of doors on my left and right.

I shrug. Well it's inside so it's not where I'm going.

I walk past all that and up the stairs on the opposite side to find myself in a place that I think I recognize?

Yes this is close to the normal exit I take , I just need to follow this path and then take a right?

I follow the path, still under the cover of the porch that has served as a clear guide on where to go.

AHA!

I was right. To the right is the normal exit I take if I had taken the left… So that means.

I spin around and look back at the wall, which I now believe to be the hallway… to the left once I come down the stairs.

Meaning the room that connects to is the library-err study room where I met Weiss, then the next and larger room to the right of that is the actual library…

Ohh.

Well that was nice.

Now then, since I'm on the path I suppose I should just follow my way to the White Rose?


8

I slowly make my way down the stone path , taking the time to look at the mostly stone garden. I can see some patches of dirt, but right now nothing occupies them.

I see the bridge and speed up to it, stopping at the middle to look down at the small stream of water that flows underneath it.

Hmm? Is the grass crusty? I look at a white layering that seems to have surrounded it. I walk over ,look down , and bend my knees outward to prop myself closer to the ground.

Hmm. It just flakes off when I touch it… Oh some got stuck on my hand, it's kinda cold, but-wait it's water now?

I look at another patch of grass and discover that it's the same. Why… No matter how many times I try I come up with nothing about why the grass is partially glassy, but then turns into water when I touch it.

I'm wasting time here.

?

I frown as I realize what I just thought.

I shake my head. I've been going at a fast pace recently, actually I have a lot of time right now…

Feeling awakened with this knowledge I let out a sigh, which strangely turns into a small cloud before disappearing.

Hmm , another question that needs answering.

Now then I was wondering, where does this water go?

I listen to the water for a moment before deciding to get an answer.

I walk alongside the bank, if you could call it that, It seemed manmade now that I think about it. Some rocks had gotten inside,but those were not the norm. I would only need to go up the small ramp to get out…

I felt something in my head for a moment… Something about drains? Whats a drain? I stop, confused as to why these half thoughts pop up in my head. Scratch the confusion what I don't like is the slight pain, like something is squeezing you.

I sit down and give my attention to the pain , with the intent of waiting it out. I felt like there was more besides 'drain' but who knows, I certainly don't, considering that I don't even know what a drain is.

I raise my hand to my head for a moment and rub it, but eventually I become aware of how cold my rear is since sitting on the stone that makes up the area near the water.

A few moments and I shake whatever it is off, feeling refreshed. I look around and notice some small smooth rocks near me at the edge where the solid rock path meets the grass. I turn over , reach out, and pick one up. Hmm.

Feeling an urge to, I grab several and turn around back to the water with an idea of what to do for a bit.

I toss the first one in an arc towards the water.

Plop

I watch the rock sink to the bottom and then see the ripples that had appeared dissipate. I throw another rock, this time intent on watching the ripples, which go down stream slowly.

I wonder why it does that. I can see that it does that, but I wonder why. It's like…

I lean forward and cup my right hand into the water. I then jerk and the water splashes out to my left.

...that. I can see it, but why does it do that?

Why does water move when I touch it? I hadn't even considered that. Sure I knew math, but that was about all I was certain off, everything else had been… Do I even know what everything else is?

I make to throw another rock, but realize I must have run out as I thought about what I knew I didn't know, at least before I questioned if I'm… just clueless?

Isn't that why we have books… that I can't read… I sigh, before looking to the left, following the path with my eyes for a moment.

I stand up, resume walking, and eventually notice something familiar after following a few curves in the path the water follows.

The statues weiss showed me. Right, already looked at these… What else is Oh that's a new one.

It was quite larger and looked like something I had seen somewhere…

Mmmmm.

I put a hand to my chin as I try and think of something. Bulky,Armored,Smooth. OH!

It's like that Mr. Laufer's friend back at the garage in town! Just… Bigger. I guess he must be well known, like the other statues. Weiss did say something about that.

It's like a knight…

Eh?

What is a knight?

Awwww. That one just came out of my head no problem, but I have no idea what the word means, only that I had a strangely comfortable feeling upon thinking of it.

Another cloud leaves my mouth as I sigh, unsure what to make of this. Right Well add that word to the list of questions I have.

Right If I'm here, then the fountain should be somewhere that way, first the path… There.

I make my way back to the path, wondering what to do. It's strange I'm out and about, but I'm bored… It really isn't the same as when I have Weiss with me.

I need someone to play with me…

Well first thing's first find Mr. Laufer then get the thing, the I can find something fun to do.

Ah there is the fountain.

I walk past it, hugging the perimeter of the fountain as I run my hands along its smooth stone edge.

Once I pass it my walk goes uninterrupted as I take in the view of the White Rose as it gets bigger as I…

Wait. Buildings don't get bigger. I get closer.

Close enough to open one of sets of main doors.


9

The interior is the same usual, white stone everywhere and a lot of shiny things tucked behind glass cases.

It was still cold, but not as cold as outdoors.

I looked around for a picture, but I couldn't find them, only more shiny things that hanged on the wall.

I guess that's just how- Oh some look like the statues,just much smaller.

I walk over to a gold one and give it a once over. No it doesn't look exactly like the statues, but it stands like one.

Hmm. Now that I think about it… are all of these gold?

But why use gold? Isn't that- OW!

I stagger and my right hand flies up to my skull as I lightly prop myself against the case with my left..

Another half thought answer, Something to do with that being why they are in glass cases?

The pain slowly recedes from my skull and I look around.

I'm starting to get irritated by this, It just hits me out of nowhere and I can't do anything about it.

Haaa. Guess it will just happen.

Now then no case looking till I at least get my key.

I walk further down the hallway , my eyes going over the embroidery in the carpet, following the lines till I'm suddenly in front of the door at the end of the hallway.

Right through the weird room , then the meeting room, aaand I'm in the circular hallway.

I spot the large door in front of me that leads to that interesting room. I did like playing in there… Is that a place I need permission to play in or can I go in?

Another question to ask when I can.

I take a left, rounding the hallway till I find the door on the outer wall I have used so far to head down.

Once inside the stair...place I quietly close the door behind me before looking towards the stairs.

I quickly head down the stairs as my feet lightly tap the stares as I exaggerate my movements for some fun as I practically bounce my way down to the next floor.

I open the door, but stop briefly as I twice almost forget to quietly close a door.

Right, quietly… and done.

I'm slowly remembering to… I think I left my door open…

...It shouldn't be a problem? Right?

Anyway, Key!

I walk to the inner wall of the hallway and reach for the door, making sure to close it behind me as I pass through.

I look around the circular room. Where is ?

I first check the desk. No, not there.

I walk towards the center of the room as I look sideways to check the side rooms. No, not there either.

Ah! He is coming up the stairs on the left.

I wave, but realize he doesn't see me.

Umm.

I clap loudly, which gets his attention as he looks my way. I then wave to him as I excitedly walk over to him. Found you. Although you can't hear me I suppose. I grin as I stop at the top of the stairs.

"Your up early. Did you finally get a proper amount of sleep?"

I nod,but then shake my head as I finally remember what happened last night…

Well I did sleep well…

I nod again.

"I'll take that as a yes, so I assume you're here because the miss had you come to retrieve the key?"

I shake my head and pound my chest with my palm.

"Oh so you came of your own volition?"

I nod again and extend my hand.

"Right then, let's head over to my desk."

I step aside and follow behind him after he passes me.

Once at the desk he goes to his usual spot behind it and reaches for something.

A moment later he places the key on the counter and I stand on my toes as I take it.

I look over the thing noticing something draw into it.

VIP 03

number three.

"Sir, we need to talk."

I look up at Mr. Laufer as he walks around from behind the desk.

Umm?

"Look at your feet."

I look down, but don't spot anything.

"Do you know what's wrong?"

Ummmmmmmmm no.

I shake my head

Your shoes. They have mud on them.

Mud?

"twist your foot and look at the bottom of them."

I do follow as instructed and roll my foot to get a better look.

What is-OHHHH.

That's mud. It must be, because otherwise I'm staring at my shoe.

A familiar mass of dark and brown is clinging to the bottom of my shoe.

Little pieces of grass are mixed in with it. I crouch to get a better look.

Well if it's bad then lets remove it. I reach out to pluck the mud off.

"Don't, here use this."

He hands me a… oh what did he call it… a towel right! Thats an easy one.

"Wipe it with that and don't get anymore mud on the floor."

O-oh… I look behind me and notice the small bits of mud tracking where I have been.

I did something bad? Umm.

I look back at Mr. Laufer.

"Just clean your shoes sir."

Right..

I sit and slowly rub the mud into the white towel and, it disappears as the towel instead becomes brownish.

Ok done, but…

A hand extends outward.

Ok.

I hand the dirtied towel, I suppose adults know what to do with that.

I stand and stretch. I get ready to head back out.

"Not so fast."

"If you bring in mud to someone's house, you're expected to apologize and clean up your own mess. Use this broom and tray."

Where did he? Um ok. I accept the items and look at them.

"Right… You grip the broom along the length of it and push the mud into a group before pushing it into the tray, once you have done that, take it to a garbage can. Any of those that you see around the gym will do. Now to open them you just push your foot down on the small piece on the bottom. Once you clean it up I'll let you go."

Ok…

Haaa.

Well there're spots from the stairs, to the front desk, and down the main aisle to the front door. This could take a little bit…

I did bring it in through.

I start where I stand.

I slowly move the broom, which is a little bit too big for me and organize a pile like I was advised. I take the tray and place it before pushing the mud onto it. Wait that wasn't all of the mud.

I keep brushing away the small bits until they disappear onto the tray.

Is that all?

Yup. OK so now garbage can…

I reach down and grab the tray.

Don't drop the tray…

I leave the broom on the floor and grab the tray with both hands and walk over to the garbage can behind Mr. Laufer's desk.

Now place my shoe…on the bottom bit and OH!

It just popped open.

It was so sudden that I almost jumped. That almost made me grasp the tray harder.

Just tilt the tray and make sure the mud goes into the can…

Good!

Wait…

I have to do that for all of the places I have been.

Oh well…

I carry the tray back around the desk to the broom and attach it like it was before handed it to me.

Hmm…

I grip the broom with both hands this time since I don't need to carry the tray.

I firmly sweep with the broom, slowly making my way over to the stairs.

Just keep sweeping, Just keep sweeping…

And that's enough.

I set down the broom again and detach the tray to scoop it up, then sweep the smaller bits onto the tray again.

Ok… Done.

Now to c-carefuly carry the tray over to the garbage can…

I stop behind the table again and tenderly press my left foot against the thing and pop open the top before lightly shaking the tray, then turning it upside down to get the last bits into the garbage.

Ok now to do that again…

This is… boring… BUT I need to do this.

I walk back and reunite the broom with the tray before sweeping my way over to the stairs again… Wait…

I pause as I wonder something. This back and forth action is… kinda wasteful?

OH! I could do that. I look around at the varying streaks of mud.

I sweep the mud slowly this time to avoid leaving muddied streaks on the floor and then sweep up the smaller bits that were left behind to finish forming a pile.

I then take my broom and walk further down and sweep up another pile.

Gently, I get all the materials up as everytime I put in too much energy I end up with those streaks, which result in me having to do even more work.

One more streek is by the stairs… Thankfully I didn't go down them.

I walk over to it and place my broom at the edge and brush it to my right, repositioning myself as I slowly put it in a pile.

And done.

I lift the broom and detach the tray before I then scoop up the pile and make sure to get the last bits.

I then backtrack my way over to the previous two piles and add them to the tray.

Just keep packing it in… nice… even pile. It's easier to hold it this way.

Ok first one done.

I hop over to the next one and take a knee to scoop it up as well.

My feet then carry me over to the final destination for all this mud.

My hands steady the tray and prepare to empty the contents, but wait until my foot finds the bit to push down.

It makes a slightly more audible plop as it falls as one into the garbage bag.

Ok now to do that with the other three… I guess I can make eight piles… Did I really have that much mud on my shoes… I mean it's not a lot, it's just scattered… everywhere I walked.

Well just need to clean it all up.

I reattach the tray to the broom after walking back to the stairs and start back at the desk.

Hmmhmhmm.

Hmmhmmmm

I make my way from the desk to the front door casually as I clean.

I smoothly organize the piles now that I know what i'm doing.

Once on the far side by the door I detach the tray, leave the broom and scoop up everything onto the tray as I return to the desk.

This time there is slightly more urgency to keeping everything on the tray. It isn't exactly… big.

But It will make a satisfying thump.

Hmm. Why is that?

I pause at the last pile.

Why not?

Oh well.

I shrug and put the final pile onto the tray and pack it down with my hand before lifting it and then walking to the desk, around it, and then placing the tray near the garbage can as I hold it.

The lid flies upward once my foot presses ,just missing the tray. I tilt the contents into the garbage and tap the tray several more times to make sure everything is inside.

Ok.

I lean back and hear the lid pop back down. I run back to the front and reattach the broom and tray before heading to the desk and handing them back to Mr. Laufer.

"Good. now don't bring in more mud next yourself at the door before entering the building."

Ok.

I nod.

Well I got the key… Now what?

I didn't exactly think about that.


10

Should I head back to bed? The soft and oh so smooth embrace was certainly something I could go for, but I was awake right now. I shook my head and with that decided I would do 'something'.

I could… explore?I crossed my arms and reluctantly shook my head. No Weiss said she was going to show me will have to wait...awhile.

My eyes light on my immediate surroundings. I could workout on the machines? I juggle that option in my mind. There is nothing stopping me from doing it. Meaning… I can do it another time. I already have a rough idea of what this place is. What I really want to know…

What do I want to know? I tap my arms as I drum my fingers. I want to know… how to read,how to write,and I want to know about people,OH and I want to explore…

I frown as I try and come up with something. Well weiss is teaching me to write. Wait no,yes? I start pacing around the front desk, occasionally slowing down when I feel close to a decent thought. Weiss did say something about not teaching me… about not teaching me what I already know…

Meaning I need time when I'm not with weiss to work on it. I snap my finger. Meaning I need to either work on it before Weiss wakes up or goes to bed…

But I don't want to sit down and write right now? Oh… haha. I smile and stop. I suppose I need to do something I'll find fun…

Exploring,Writing,People,and explor-wait already said that. Um…

I guess exploring is what I want to do! I now need to answer a question of where? Oh and it has to not be a building because of Weiss.

"I know that look."

Hmm? I look over to Mr. Laufer, whom I had forgotten had his eyes closed as he looked at the roof and a palm against his head. Yes?

"You want to go 'get lost'."

Umm no? I'd like to think I know where I am? I pout and with a huff stare at him, waiting.

"I already had your clothes moved to the VIP room. Just head on down. Put something proper on and then head out."

Ok ok.

I excitedly ready myself to head back to my room.

"I said the VIP room, not your room. That would be downstairs sir." Mr. Laufer advised with clear directions.

I stop.I guess that's one nice thing. I can't ever head the wrong way without being told it by someone.I feel a slightly hot sensation in my stomach as I note he did say that and then mentally track where I need to go. The stairs where I greeted Mr. Laufer, down them, take a right , down the second flight. The at the end of the hallway on the right.

With that I follow my mental map till I am in front of the 'VIP Room'.

What is a VIP ROOM?

Another question.

I look at the door for a moment before remembering the key. Right. I reach into my right pocket, then my left and pull out the key. Ok… I slide the key inside the door knob. It grates on something on the inside but...

Nothing happened… Umm? I tilted my head quizzically at the door.

I reach for the knob and twist it, but the door won't open. No this isn't working…

Try again? The doorknob rattles, but beyond that it refuses to let me in.

Is the key bad? I reach for the key again and touch it and notice something. I can… I can twist it? Ok lets try this… I twist the key fully and pull. Again. I sigh as I work my head to figure out this. I could go ask, but I'll do that after I exhaust everything and… I somehow know my stomach will feel that uncomfortable warmth again.

I let go and put my right hand against my chin as I try and think of my options. Ok so the door knob twists… My mind breaks down what might be going on inside as I try to run a graph representing combinations I have tried.

Key or no key

Twisted knob or not

Twisted keyhole or no.

Well he said I needed the key so mark that off.

I already twisted the knob and the keyhole.

I snap my finger as realization dawns on me.

Maybe it is both?

I reach for the key and twist it with my right hand and then with my left twist the doorknob.

And it opens! I lightly hop on my toes for a moment, but then slide the door open and look at it.

I twist the knob and do what I remember Weiss's doing. I then check what the key does and discover a bar coming out...wait… I don't have to hold the key I just need to keep it in a certain position…

Well then!

I remove the key and pocket it before heading inside to see what's inside.

It's smaller than the previous room I had down here, I honestly don't see what's different aside the slightly umm… shinier bits in the room.

It really was shinier. The lockers on the left were very different in here from those Mr. Laufer had shown me in the previous room. They were larger and had space both inside the locker and the umm inner side of the door? There was a bench in the middle, which had a white cushion on the whole thing and then… Is that the shower at the end of the room? Its much larger than the one's in the other room,and it has a curtain.

I walk to it and notice it connects to not a shower, but a mini hallway that leads to the right. The curtain I had seen was an exit on the left side of this hallway.

I brush that aside and look around. It's practically a whole room! I close the curtain and look back. Oh there is another bench near it with another cushion.

Hmm. I put my hands on my hips and take it all in as I walk back to the door. So the room is smaller, but everything inside is bigger and different. So is that what VIP means, bigger and different things?

Oh well ,where are my clothes? A search reveals several pairs that are on the counters near the sinks opposite the lockers

I walk past the long bench and take a left into the rectangular area that has sinks on the right and a… I think that's what called a toilet on the left which is inside a stall.

Right then. I grab the dark blue… he said it was mesh? I didn't think about that before but isn't this just a shirt and some short pants? AHHH it doesn't matter hahaha! Ok!

Right Where I stood I bring my hands inside my shirt and lift them off me. The pants come off after I undo the button as I let them fall to the floor, then pick them up and place them on the counter. The black topsiders come off after I apply pressure with my other foot and I lift my feet to remove the grey socks with my hands.

Alright! Now then… I grab the blue mesh shirt and lower it to the floor as I let it slide in my grip till I hold the bottom of it between my fingers. I slip my hands inside and quickly fit the whole thing over my head as I let it fall. I encourage the process by shaking ever so little. Once I can see after my head pops out the top I hop onto the counter ,grab my blue mesh pants, bend my knees and put them on. With that done I hop off the counter and look for my socks.

Where are they?

Are they in the lockers? I search them, opening them one by one and then repeating the search by leaving them open to indicate that I did search them. Hmm. No, not there.

I guess , oh well there are my shoes under the part of the main room bench that is near the door and the opening to the sinks… and the bathroom.

Right got to be right when possible.

Now then. I just need my white socks that… are inside my shoes. Ok so where are the rest of my socks?

I go back to my clothes on the counter, probably the first place I should have looked now that I think about it. A look reveals nothing, but I prop myself on the counter and see that they are behind the clothes… Ok well I found them… and I found my shoes!

I look from my perch on the counter back towards the lockers, but stay where I am as I place my shoes to my left and put on my socks then my black 'running shoes'. Now then… one problem.

How do I do my shoes again?

I remember him doing it, but between his big hand and hims saying something about a rabbit I honestly couldn't remember how to do my shoes.

Well I just ask Mr. Laufer then. I smile and hop of the counter, careful to not trip on the lace that comes out of my shoes.

The shoes are loose so it's a little awkward to walk but I manage my way back to the door, which I open and exit into the hallway.

I spot Weiss's room across from me, my eyes linger on it for a moment, but turn left, then down as I keep an eye on my shoes as I make my way to the stairs.

Once at the stairs I take slow, deliberate steps as I realize I don't want to trip like I did the first time I put these on. That was almost painful had I fallen. Now I just need to avoid tripping and then falling.

I make it past the first flight , turn left and begin to go up the second flight… Or is it the first? I stop as I wonder that… Is it the first flight if you climb down , but the second if you go up?

I don't know.

Aaaand another question for Weiss.

With that shelved I make it to the gym floor and spot Mr. Laufer at the counter working on something. I clap ,wave and then walk over.

Mr. Laufer looked my way, sighed, and then walked out from behind.

"Shoes again?" He crosses his arms as he looks down my shoes.

I nod and make of whirling motion of doing whatever he does to fix them.

"Alright sit down."

I do so.

"Now I ascribe to the idea of teaching a man to fish so you will be doing this on your own, of course I will walk you through it."

What does this have to do with fish?

Now this is called a 'bowknot' or the 'around the tree' since my story about the rabbit didn't seem to help I will instruct you on what to do.

"First tie a left over right knot here, just intwine them one time."

I follow the instructions . Ok that's done. I look up to Mr. Laufer.

"Good now make the right side loop by doubling it back on itself"

I look back down and fold the right side, then look up as I continue to pinch it.

"Take the left end and pass it around to the right. Have it go behind the right loop, then continue the left end around the right loop and stop in the front."

Both sides slowly loop around each other as my fingertips lead them.

"No, just the left around the right."

I start again , this time earning no correction. I finish that step and look up.

"Now feed it into the hole that you have."

I pick at the part that needs feeding and then manage to pull it with my right hand.

"Now pull both ends until the knot if firmly tied"

This part in particular is simple so I just pull until it's tight.

"Well done, now do it with your other shoe. I will be heading back to my counter."

With newfound knowledge I pace myself through the steps as I mentally recall the very recent sensations, sounds , and image of each instruction and step. It was much easier having actual experience with the bowknot.

Now then. I stood up and looked towards the main door and smiled. Time to get out and about!

"Wait." That was all it took for me to go from nine to zero as I turn to Mr. Laufer.

He is holding a brown bracelet of some kind with something silver on wait it's a watch.

"Seeing as you're clearly heading outside and not running around here, I would be remiss in not giving you a watch."

I look at him and watch as he wraps the item around my hand The silver piece ends up on the inward side of my left arm.

"See how the small hand is halfway to five?" I nod. "I need you to be back by six, If not, then further outdoor excursions will need a supervisor am I understood?"

I nod, then I race to the door, slow down when I hear Mr. Laufer shout "No Running!" and exit the door.

I jog to the door, up the stairs, then I stop.

I see one of the staff ladies with an item I'm recently familiar with. A broom. Ohhh.

Logic finally kicks in gear and I realize I tracked mud all the way from the outside.

I walk up to the lady and offer my hands to take the broom.

The maid doesn't look back, but politely retorts. "That will not be necessary." I insist with my hands, but she doesn't budge."I appreciate the offer, however this is what I'm here for."

Ok… Wait…

I poke the young lady. Who looks up from the floor. "Yes? Oh good morning Heiter."

Oh I was right! It's Cereza… and that made me feel a thousand times worse. I caused someone more work.

I see something alight in her eyes and she looks at me questioningly. She lifts the broom slightly and points at the mud with a bouncing motion before continuing to sweep. "Is this yours?"

I nod guiltily.

"I see, be that as it may,while I appreciate the offer, this is part of my job. You wouldn't want me to tell you to stop going to play outside and let me do it instead?"

But… that's not… What? I mean No?

"Then leave this to me, by talking to me you are only delaying me so go on outside and mind the cold."

O-ok? I apologetically offer a bow, which she returns with a nod and I turn to run down the circular hallway to the rear exit.

"NO RUNNING!" Right right right… I slow down and this time walk my way toward the back exit. I don't even consider jogging.

I make my way to the back door. Internally muttering apologies til I open a door leading to the small room before the exit. I take a few steps and get a to the floor and get a good look through the glass doors.

I see that it is much brighter, but kinda darkish, still a different shade of blue from normal daytime. I check my watch as I flip my hand to see its underside.

The time is 4:55 if i'm reading this right. Ok so… roughly and hour. Thats a lot of time right?

It dawns on me that this is the first time I actually have time to myself, for myself. I smile like only a child can and rush out the door.


11

I exit the building and stop at one of the columns under the roof that extends from the building.

Lets. I'm here so… lets go left and head… where?

Well down we go. I step away from the column and down five steps to arrive at the next

level which extends around the building in a circular fashion and has space for several tables. I'm still one level above the ground though so I need to find a some steps...Or I could hop down, wait no I would need to jump over the rail.

Wait. I could do that though.

Well I'm outdoors now so it's play time. I run across the stone floor that looks like flower petals and jump slightly before jumping toward the rail.

Too low! I jumped waay to early! I could have made it, but I'm coming down onto the rail I correct myself and grab the rail,lock my arms painfully, and try to stop my legs from hitting the rail.

Not working! I change plans and twist my hip to vault over the rail and spin forcing me to move my hands , reposition them, or twist them.

Thankfully it works , but spot a bush I hadn't seen prior to jumping.

Great.

I tighten my grip on the rail instead of push off and let my feet land on the slight ledge under the rail.

I hadn't noticed it, but the rail was cold and that was slowly seeping into my hands. It was borderline unpleasant.

I look over my shoulder for a way off the rail.

Ok Just need to jump over the bush…

Jump backwards?

In my mind I see myself push off and land on my feet, then possibly trip.

Ok modify that.

My mental self then jumps and spins to the left as he twists his torso, first letting his left foot , then right leave the ledge. Landing seems ok, I might stumble, but I shouldn't fall.

I reenact what I have in my mind and launch off the ledge I vault over the bush and see the stone path.

My left foot makes contact as I'm facing away from the ledge and I feel my center of balance shift forward as my ankle bends. Nope! More spin!

I twist my foot against the ground till it faces the ledge and my right meets the ground. My right faces to my right. My knee bends as it takes the load, but my stance is solid so I just get slightly acquainted with the ground.

I normalize my posture and congratulate myself, but note to include the bush in my jump may also... possibly just might work better in some instances if I climb down the steps. Once the bush has more green on it I'm not sure… I can jump that. Well at least from the ledge. A proper jump might do it.

I flex my hands briefly as the sensation of the rail leaves it and look away. I walk along the path as it circles the building and its petal like encirclement.

I look ahead and see the Retreat, but continue to follow the path and spot a door very similar to the one I exited near the building.

Haaa. So there was more than just the back exit! I lightly slap my thigh and continue around the building before spotting yet another. Note to self, I need to check which doors lead out...Sometime.

Anyway I can make out the path alongside the building and to the fountain from here so I follow it as the sky brightens up slowly. It slowly changes and brightens the large walls of the White Rose as I walk alongside it. The walls are now

Wait… I'm outside now, I can run!

I kick at the ground and run towards the front of the building and then along the path as it curves ever to slightly to the right as it makes its way toward the fountain. I don't linger and run past the fountain towards the statues and stop as I look at it…

A fairly large one that isn't one of the knights looks like a large dog. It is very large and almost person sized.

I want on top of the statue. I run towards it, but stop as I frown.

I check my shoes… No mud. Ok Just don't get on any of the dirt...yet.

I look around. Well that shouldn't be hard. The area around the statues has a large stone flooring everywhere.

I tap the rock with my feet and and curl myself up before I jump and grab the edge of the edge of the pedestal the statue sits one. My hands had gone slightly above the point and clapped hard against the edge.

I struggle for a moment, but heave myself up as I prop one arm then the other as I twist myself so that I'm sitting on the ledge near the left of the dog's left forepaw.

I hesitate to climb further so I settle in for sitting where I am on the statue. Sitting with the statue is different from sitting on the statue.

I sit there for a while, slowly warming the stone as I watch the sky and notice that the air no longer turns to white when I breath out.

Hmm.

I look around and eventually spot a mass of black and white things in the distance…

They are in a large group and moving from the direction of the Watchtower.

?

I reposition myself as I scoot myself along the edge to the right as I try and get a better view. I round the corner and find my back towards the right forepaw.

I squint my eyes and look as I lean forward.

Oh! It's people! They are dressed similarly to Cereza. Correction there are two groups of people. The second group is like the blonde person that brings food.

The are almost in two blobs, but the ladies are in front.

They all seem to be taking those deliberately slow steps, yet...What? They are moving-OH they are taking large strides!

With that figured out I watch them till they get a little closer before lifting and pushing myself off the edge so I can go meet them.

My shoes hit the stone as I instinctively bend my knees to take the energy,before I look towards the group. They have gotten closer, but I realize they will pass me as the stone garden that I'm in is off to their left. I slowly walk from one stone statue to another till I'm closer to the main path.

I've stopped behind one of the giant legs of a knight light statue. It is very tall so I walk around the inside of its leg and stop behind the large… What is it carrying?

I look up and note that carrying may not be the best word. The knight has its hands wrapped around a cylinder, which is connected to a large crescent shaped thing, which is then connected to a large, flat, and pointy thing that is pointed towards the ground ,which it rests upon.

It is that thing which I'm currently hiding behind. A thought occurs to me and I look over my right shoulder. Oh!

Every statue on this or the other side of the path faces the path. Hmm!

I perk up at the newfound knowledge and look at the other statues around me, noting the almost grid-like pattern they were in.

I look around the large pointy thing in front of me and spot that it's the same and that in some cases the statue on one side of the path mirrors the other.

Alrigh- oh the people are passing me. I stop my other thoughts and decide to head to them.

I stand up walk out to the path and mingle with the first group. I stay outside the group because I get a feeling that I shouldn't go inside the group, despite how open their blob is.

I see some of the younger members of the group look my way.

?

They look away and continue to talk amongst themselves as they continue to lead the group along the path. I can't make out what they are saying, but they have very serious expressions.

I stand still for a moment, not sure of what to do, but I decide to get beside the group.

I start to listen and try to keep track of what is being said.

My attention first falls to the loudest speaker, who is speaking in a calm and measured,almost relaxing tone.

"Now now you need to relax just a little and remember your new duties Fiona. You simply need to go to the library to acquire two copies all of the books the incoming teachers have requested and then sort them each day from today onwards."

The other voice that seemingly responds is quieter so it's harder to hear, but I make it out due to the slight chirp in their voice.

"But,But what about my regular duties?"

Someone else quietly and coolly interjected quickly. "This is why you should have gotten up sooner."

"I promise to get up sooner…"

The chirpy voice sounds somehow even more deflated.

"I knew that the staff gets up early and yet…"

The measured voice then begin again, somehow even calming me despite there being nothing wrong. Well I do have some concern for whoever this Fiona is since they seem to be having a bad day.

"It's your first official day, You're doing fine. You were late for the meeting, but you are asking around. That is being attentive."

"Thank you ."

"Your welcome, now one piece of advice. You should go to sleep earlier, while I applaud your zeal for studying the job. You can better service yourself by getting up in the morning and not sacrificing sleep. The job can be draining before you get used to it."

"I see. Thank you ."

"Your welcome, also call me Rita, I'm not that much older than you and you're officially one of us as of today."

"Y-yes!"

There was movement in the group and someone with short pink hair ran off to the front.

The measured voice sighs ,grabbing my attention again.

"Poor girl."

There was a pause, then the cool and quiet voice responds.

"I fail to see what is 'poor' about her?"

"She is going to be stressing herself to bits. That and the other new girls from up north have been giving her a hard time,despite her efforts to mingle."

"I imagine that they will all learn to be professional. Your worries are unnecessary... Unless she gets fired."

The measured voice chides the other.

"Serias!"

"Yes?"

"You are giving her a chance?"

"Did I say I wasn't?"

Yet another pause.

"No, however your language can be… Misinterpreted by the others."

The cool voice sighs before continuing in a very weiss-like manner.

"Listen. She could be fired at any time, presently that is unlikely. If someone is actually reasonable, then they will understand me.I am always clear on what I say. Also it's my choice of words, not language."

"Yes yes, but you forget not everyone is reasonable and clear headed like you."

"A shame."

"Truly, you do me good like this."

"Glad to be of service."

"Now then about-Oh hello you."

"Rita where are you?"

The group moves a little and two people end up near me as I follow alongside.

On the left is an older maid girl with a light shade of brown hair that comes down in long curls, pearly white skin that has a soft look to it in the morning light ,and green eyes that are presently looking down to me.

Her companion on the right has darker brown hair in a bun , snow white skin that reminds me much of weiss and grey eyes which are behind a rectangular set of glasses that radiate a calm air, although her face itself seems devoid of… any expression.

I look between the two as I try and figure what to do… I can't wave… I…

I helplessly smile as I have no idea what to do.

The girl on the left is the first to speak.

"Hello there.~"

"Rita, he isn't a dog."

"Serias I know that, but look at him."

"I don't need to I can see him just fine."

"Yes, and he is absolutely adorable.~"

My attention keeps jumping from the one on the left to the one on the right.

"Want a lift little one?"

"Rita your uniform."

"I know what i'm doing Serias. "

The girl on the left stops for a moment and because of that both the girl on the right and I do so as well.

The girl on the left lightly claps before leaving her hands open. "Up?~"

Instinctually I lift my hands into the air and her gloved hands grab me by the side before raising me in the air ,before spinning me several times.

It's a lot of fun and I break out into a huge smile as I wave my arms in the air.

I could feel the cool wind against my hair,face, even it went through my blue mesh clothes.

"See? Clean and fun."

"I can agree that it is clean, but fun is a subjective word."

That girl doesn't know what fun is! I'm having a blast up here!

Just as quickly as the fun started I was then set down.

I took a step, stumbled, realized I was stumbling and worked on it as I looked up to the two as my world kept on spinning.

I put my hands up in the air again.

"Oh I would, but I do need to get going now."

Slowly the group leaves me behind as I struggle to keep myself straight. Wo-wo-woah…

I almost fall down, but I walk towards the watchtower, enjoying the odd sensation.

I spin myself a few times as I balance on one foot and then the other and eventually find myself at the fork in the path.

I look ahead and slightly to the left and spot the tower.

If I want to head to the Winter's Watch then I should take a left…

Normally you might think the left path would take you there, considering how the current and right path have a slow bend to the left and the left just breaks off…

I think about that again.

Actually…

It's too far to the left so I guess the right path does look like it heads to the tower.

Or is that because I already know?

I look over to the left path. It goes out in an arch out further to the left, then bends back to the right into the woods.

Hmm…

Oh!

I can go to the woods and not worry about weiss's tour!

I turn to my left and walk onto the path as it slowly bends to my right. I can see the tower off to my right. It is helpful for finding where I am.

Not like I will be able to see it easily from within the woods.

Although there is that…

I smile as I figure a method. With that I decide to cut across the trimmed grass to the other side of the bend and find a small post just before the entrance. I walk up to it and notice some things on it with arrows pointing into the woods and others are leading out.

Hmm well I can't read it so no point 's probably useful since I have an idea about what this signpost is for, but I won't be needing it...yet.

Now then time to look around!


12

I walk under the bare canopy in the woods as I follow the still somehow clean path.

I gaze up and see varying collections of images as the canopy moves ever so slightly,thus giving motion to everything I see above me.

It's amazing. What I see most are faces, occasionally I can make out a person and the level of detail is sometimes like one of those portraits back in the big house.

But here I can look anywhere and see something! I only need to look for it!

Lets see…

Half of someone's face, the rest is blocked by the woods.

I look up to avoid that and scan the canopy. A cloaked figure walking with matted hair…

A top down view of a mountain range… and now that I have seen that I'm constantly seeing a top down view as if in the air thing… the...um..the P.A.C.?

Yes that's what is was called.

Now then as much as I want to look around at the top I want to actually get around so...

I kept walking and started to notice just how quiet it was out here. I couldn't hear anything…

I focused my senses as I tried to hear something… and then I did.

It was the wind as it gently moved through the woods. I had been looking for other sounds and had failed to notice it as I had unknowingly tuned it out.

With that no longer the case I picked up on seemingly everything as the wind lightly moved and rolled around the canopy above me. Giving a life to the activity of images above me.

I can wait here… for a little bit…

I walk off the path,jumping over the slight ditch on both sides of the path.I then climb up the natural embankment and walk towards of the many contributors to the canopy.

When I near it I have to duck under some of the lower portions of its canopy as it's very much like those things Wiess used when we were in the rain…. Except it's very tall and the canopy it contributes runs all the way up to the top in many downward encirclements.

From where I sat with my back against the wood I partially enjoyed the idea that anywhere in the woods I could potentially sit down and relax. With the cool, firm ground under me I look up, listen, and just enjoy the moment.

It's different, but… the outside…

...

The wind blows.

The woods shift.

On days like this it's…

Peaceful.

Hmm…

I close my eyes and just listen and feel the movement in the wood pressed against my back.

This… I hadn't realized it, but with all of the activity that was happening with Weiss and I, I had forgotten or didn't have time for my favorite pastime…

The last time I had time like this I was on an Island in the sky… and so far away from wherever here is.

Even now the moment was short… but I can enjoy it a moment longer… And I can enjoy this anywhere… The woods are everywhere.

An uncontrolled sigh escapes me as I slowly scoot my legs toward me and stand into a crouch as I gently push some of the obstructing canopy away to turn around as I crane my next upwards…

Hmm… not big enough.

I turn back around and walk out from under the canopy before walking farther away from the path.

I don't know how long I walk for, but I pass of the tall sentinels , often times pausing to touch the tip of them till I find a larger one that looks like it can support what I want to do.

I walk up to it and pat the wood one time, finally not having to duck under its canopy.

I look up. This time the canopy starts a little higher and it looks a much thicker.

Thankfully it should be in range.

I pat the wood one more time before walking away.

I stop and turn to size up what I need to do.

Need to land at least halfway and then come down on it so I can… Ok!

I nod my head a few times as I look at my target on the wood , just below the start of the lower canopy.

Ok… Here goes.

I hop a few times then I break into a run. When I near, I bounce, once,twice and throw myself upwards at my target. I overshoot it just as planned and come down on it.

My shoes hit the wood at an angle and for a tedious moment tension runs through my legs.

errr.

Bad.

I fall down towards the ground. I see the canopy fall away from me and I remember to cover my head with my arms just before I hit the dirt with my back.

I lay on the ground for a moment as I check everything and after a moment roll over and push myself off onto my feet.

I turn around to look at my target and review what went wrong…

When I was coming down I did right with my legs… but everything above my torso wanted to keep going down. Right.. Need to lock everything.

Ok well lets try again…

I walk away back to my starting point and bounce a few times as I size up my target…

Perhaps instead of a complete lock up I need to land at just after the apex of my jump and not come down on it…

I hold my hand out as I point to my target and then the lowest piece of the canopy that looks like it can support my weight.

Ok… I might need to jump a little higher, but I should be able to do it this time.

I bounce on the balls of my feet before I sprint fast as I can towards the wood.

I prepare myself and spring upwards to the newer target. The cool air in my face gives me the sensation of flight for a moment till my shoes lightly begin to make contact with the wood. In that instant , I only give myself time to feel a near firm grip between my shoes and the wood before I twist slightly to the right and push off up as much as possible before my balance is lost.

I rise up and eye my final target…

Ah not enough height!

I switch plans and reach out with my right hand for the piece of the canopy and just manage to grab a offshoot of it with one hand.

I feel it immediately bend as it fails to hold firm.

Not good!

I swing to my left,fighting my rightward spin I had subjected my body to and heave myself up enough so my left arm can get a grip on one of the larger pieces of the canopy just above my originally targeted canopy.

With that I managed to pull myself up with my left arm and then my right once I leverage it onto the solid support.

Still holding it, I manage to pull myself on top of my original target.

HAAAAAA.

Ok I almost messed that up… several times and I wasn't able to jump on top of the target BUT!

I'm here now.

I scoot myself closer to the main pillar of wood and rest against it for a moment just to recover my senses.

That was pretty close… but that makes it even more amazing that I did it. Maybe though…

I look out deeper into the woods…

Maybe I should find a more suitable one to jump into next time instead of using the first one I find.

I look back at the offshoot i sit on.

Yea good idea, now then…

I tuck my legs in and balance myself on the lower canopy. I look up for a piece to reach for.

I don't have to look far as they are everywhere. In fact it's so packed that I'm probably going to be squeezing my way up…

Well I suppose that is better than having to do large jumps from branch to branch. Though if the conditions are right I can do it. The woods here though have either too much spacing or not enough.

Not enough equalling me having to climb and bend myself…

And so I shall…

I stand up and reach for a piece of the canopy.

As I make my way up I find myself sitting, looking around for a way that doesn't squeeze me. Sometimes I'm already tangled up and am just trying to free myself and at other moments find myself dealing with the amount of wood in my face.

There isn't much time for thinking as I singlemindedly push my way up to the top.

Or as close as I can get.

Sometime later near the top my head manages to break through the canopy and stare as I sit as close to the central piece as possible, lest I slide down the canopy in a possibly very painful ordeal. The angle had only gotten worse the higher I was so I was fairly worried about it.

Not a very good place to climb if I want to safely reach to top.

I gaze up at the top, so much closer, but armed with the knowledge I gained from the climb, it now seems just out of my reach.

Well… let's see If I can find it…

Eventually I spot a familiar white spire in the distance.

Well there's Winter's Watch! I knew I had a way for figuring a way out of here. No signs for me.

And there is the… Weiss only called it 'the bulge', the Retreat, and then the White Rose.

Ok so thats whats to see that way… I walked a pretty good distance!

I pivot slightly to my left and look around the woods.

Why is it that… all the wood here is missing it's greenery?

A cool wind blows against me and I find myself squeezing my legs against the wood supporting me as my hands hold a piece above me for stability.

No idea…

No idea…

I stare upwards questioningly, till another question comes to me.

Was all of that real?

I watch the clouds high above against the dark morning sky as I recall and debate the island…

Unless this is another island? It could be, but I don't recognize any of this. When I was at the top of the island there was nothing that looked like… actual buildings.. For one.

Haaa.

I look back down and once again am reminded of my current height advantage… though if my past experience was true, then I had a greater one at one point… Though I can actually climb down in this situation.

Up there getting down would involved jumping… I shiver at the thought and partially scoot backward, reassuring myself with the presence of the wood against my back.

Hmm…

I listen to the wind and notice something… I feel the movement of the wood around me.

Its a nice, yet terrifying feeling. I stomach it and finally spot something to give me a reason to climb down.

A large wooden cabin of sorts.

Wait. buildings are off limits…

Hmm…

Though this is the first wooden building I have seen.

Another time unfortunately…

But its time to get down…

Now how to do it…

Normally...oh dear.

I may be only used to jumping into things I can jump out of…

I didn't exactly think about getting down…

A feeling rises in my chest a sensation of falling despite me being perfectly still, and perfectly secure.

I gulp as I look down, through the ever so many branches to see the ground so far away.

Ho boy.

Umm….

I clench the wood beneath me as my senses tingle.

Help…

I look around , but realize nobody will be looking for me.

Hhhhhhhhhhnnnnnnn.

Ooooooohhhh.

ooook

Just one at a time.

I let go of the canopy above me with my right hand and slowly bring it down to grasp the base of the branch beneath me… Ah.

Right then…

I then release my left hand and do the same.

I then realize that I don't want to let go…

I take a deep breath that seems to last forever.

Just loosen your left leg and find a branch to place it on…

Wait.

I can't grip branches with my shoes.

That.

I look down as my head touches the center of wood.

My body shivers as I try and figure out something, but with my mind going so fast it realizes something.

I can't call of help…

My body gets cold and I just endure as I shiver against the branch in the wind as my mind races.

I'mfineImfine…

It's ok. No it's not.

I'm safe at the moment.

No I'm-actually I am. My mind slows down at the realization.

I have been up here all this time and yet I haven't fallen.

Why?

Because… I look and feel around.

I'm attached to this branch. Both my arms and legs provid-

AHA! My arms are what got me up here and they can get me down!

I just need to keep a good grip on the branch until I can secure myself with a solid sitting position.

I take a deep breath as I keep the cold sensation in me away… Careful now.

Ok start with the left leg.

Haaa.

My grip doesn't loosen.

I can just wait up here till someone finds me…

No…

I know I'm safe, but I don't want to be up here against my will, I mean nothing against the view, but…

I want down.

I puff my cheeks and loosen my left legs grip as I strengthen my arms my equal measures.

Ok! Now then!

My left leg moves slowly until it feels another branch.

Ok. now…

What do I do with my right leg?

AHHHH! THIS WAS SO MUCH EASIER WHEN ALL I HAD TO DO WAS JUMP!

If I mo..

Oh no…

Well I guess we just try and hope it works?

Come on..

I loose my grip with my right leg and bring it over to the branch. Ok…

Now I have both shoes against the branch and am almost awkwardly holding onto the branch I was sitting on with my arms.

Now what?

Do I just push myself-NO.

Haaaa.

Ok

Just figure this out.

It's just a very scary math problem.

A math problem?

Wait is it?

Hmmmmmmm.

Given my angle… If I push myself towards the center as I go down I should manage?

Well lets try it.

I push and nicely situate myself on the new branch… and then proceed to teeter over to the left.

I grip the branch hurriedly.

To late!

I feels the wood tear against me as I force myself to a stop and find myself horizontal to the branch…

I close my eyes.

Just hold on!

I feel myself losing my grip and fight it.

My eyes open again.

Where?!

Where can I go from here?!

I could- no that's a horrible idea!

I don't have any options! Falling uncontrolled it much worse!

I loosen my grip with my legs as I bring them down and feel my legs bash against a branch below me.

That hurts!

No time just grip it!

I wrap my feet around the branch and push my hands off much lighter this time and instead of fastening my arms around my new perch wave them in the air as I achieve balance.

I sigh.

I should have done that the first time! This is killing me. I laugh internally, somewhere in between all the emotions I'm feeling.

Now what?

To my horror it takes a much longer period of time to climb down. What seemed like a rush to the top is now a very slow and dangerous path down.

The bottom is what I want the most right now. It has the densest canopy and I can just move from one sitting position to the other as I go dow..

OH I AM AN IDIOT!

I lightly tap my head against the branch I'm currently on.

I've only looked at the main branches and not their smaller and often more flexible portions.

Well yea! They are more secure.

Yes but if the bend then… I can skip- no that's a horrible idea. It would either snap AND it's not that flexible so no! I'm climbing down the old fashioned way.

Safely and yet still very much terrified.

Ok then.

Just keep on heading down. Watch the branches. Ignore the cuts from saving myself.

Feel the slight burn of them against the keep on going down.

The ground will be here at some point. Just keep on.

I push off a branch , just lightly touching it as I prop myself against it and maintain some balance with a more flexible branch despite my misgivings.

Oh!

I'm getting better at this.

I look down for the next branch to head to and notice something.

There are no more branches…

Wait!

HAHAHAHAHA! I made it! Ahahahaha!

Oh my. Ahh i'm crying…

Well then. I hop off of the last branch and stumble as I hit the sweet ground.

I sigh as I gaze up at the sky. Right then. No climbing for now! If I want to know where I am, I should just keep my sense of direction!

Or perhaps I should just climb where I'm comfortable? I put my right hand against my chin as I think about that, drumming my fingers against my left cheek.

Well for now let's… go.. That way! I head back in the direction of the path as I walk back through the woods, my feet against the trimmed grass that I have found everywhere thus far.

Psssst.

?

I turn my head and to try and find the source of the sound I heard.

I walk around until eventually I find something that my instincts say doesn't belong here.

It's a… very small black tower and its very small, even taller than my shoe. It has a flat top with many blades in a circular pattern and a central opening of sorts.

What is it?

I crouch next to it and place one hand one each of my knees as I roll my head to inspect it.

No idea…

p...

Hmm?

Did I hear something?

Ppppppphhhhssssstsssssssssssssssshhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!

WOAH!

Suddenly a fan of water flies out at me and I duck underneath the curtain as I look over my shoulder.

The water is going pretty far. OH there are more of these things in the distance.

I wonder why… is the water curtain… getting smaller?

I study it for a moment and… is definitely getting closer. UHHH.

I don't want to be sprayed , but… Wait a minute…

I could… block it with my hand…

I slowly raise my hands toward the device as I wait…

Wait…

Wait for it…

And… now! I raise my hands and clasp the device.

PPPPPHHH!

Next thing I know water flies out between my fingers in all directions as I feel a strong pressure that just ignores my efforts. Water flies towards me and I realize I have nowhere to dodge.

BRRRRRahhhhaha STOOOP!

The water strikes me in the face as I twist my head to the right side to avoid the direct hit. It continues to spray the side of my face until the angle gets high enough that it comes down on me instead of into my face.

...

Ha…

Hahahaha!

Oh this is fun! I wasn't expecting that at all! For a moment there I thought everything was going to work out, but it didn't go as planned.

And now… I gaze down at my clothes…

Im soaked. My clothes , my body and my hair… my hair?

I distinctly feel that my hair has been swept back by all the water. A few shakes of the head fix that odd feeling.

Now then…

The water is coming back down…

Well there's no point in blocking it now.

I let go with my left hand and notice the water fly out that way.

A smile makes itself home on my face as an idea takes hold.

This time I put my left hand near the right and instead of clasping the device,grasp the section closest to me. To my delight the water flies out ahead of me.

With the force redirected,It flies off much further than it was a moment ago.

Ohhh. My eyes widen a little in surprise as I realize what I can do with this.

I squeeze my hands just a little and watch as it flies out further, then lower my hands to make it fly higher and occasionally the water ends up in my face when I fail to control the force under my hands.

The water flies out high, low, and in an undulating pattern as I learn to quickly adjust the for-PPPPPH.

Water drips from my face again.

I inhale for a moment and then sigh.

Haaaaaa.

Now then let's turn this way and fire another way… Just need to carefully hold th-PHHH!

Ok that hurts a little. My face stings from getting hit so frequently.

I release my left hand to rub it and realize my mistake, but it's too late. Water flies up and hits me center mass , only sparing my right side. The water isn't as forceful though.

I release my right hand and stand up since I'm already so drenched.

I think thats enough for now… I'm slightly…

I rub my arms that aren't covered by my shirt.

I'm cold.

I walk away from the curtain of water, but as it is circular I have to get hit by it at some point and honestly, when I'm hit by the water I almost forget that I'm cold now.

When I finally get out of range I remember something visually.

There are more of these things and I'm already getting sprayed.

Well lets just run out of here!

I duck into the curtain as it rolls across my back and find myself going from one dome of water to another.

As I'm running I have to shelter my eyes a little because I can't quite see everything because the water, both emerging from the ground, and on my face as I'm almost shutting my eyes to keep from getting blasted in the eye at times.

Just keep running.

I almost hit a few obstacles in the woods, low branches, the thing they are all connected to,or the devices the water flies from.

When I emerge out of yet another curtain I almost skid off the side of the embankment near one of the walking paths. At this moment my shoes slip as I feel the traction disappear.

I'm falling.

I land my left foot on the ground and find myself wobble a few times before I regain my balance. Ok go me!

Haaaa.

I look to my right. The path continues back toward the area where I entered the I could just walk out of here… I'm still very cold though.

Infact I'm colder now since I'm not being sprayed by the water. The wind hits the woods and the canopy as well as me. I look ahead of me and noticing the distinct sound of the water being sprayed by many of those things on the other embankment. But… I need to dry out…

I frown as I want not be hit by the cold wind, and despite the water helping with that...kinda. I also realize I'll still be cold and wet...Just...later.

Ok that helps decide.

Running through more water domes it is!

I walk up the embankment opposite me and go through the woods again this time carefully to parting the water with my hands to avoid it directly hitting my face, sure water sprays in my face, but not whole streams of it. Because of that I managed to direct myself a little faster through the woods. My footing is questionable at times and because of a few spots where the water gathers I almost slip , and at other times I excitedly bound into such a spot to produce a splash as It partially swallows the bottom of my shoe. This goes on for who knows how long, but I have a blast with it until I regrettably run out of domes to crash through.

Instead I have a very open view once I exit the woods. Lets see. I take in what is directly ahead of me as I walk out onto the grassy field. There is a lake off in the distance across the field of grass.

Oh there's the large boat Weiss mentioned. It is sitting alongside a large stone pier. The multi story craft is fairly large…

I can't tell from here, but given how far…

I shield my eyes from the glare of the sun to my right and gaze at the boat. It may be larger than the house.

Why build a boat bigger than a house?

Hmm.

I walk out through the field until notice the texture beneath me change and I become more aware of my surroundings.

I'm standing on a large stone path, very much like the one closer to the house, in fact…

I gaze to my left. No It just goes one till the woods block my view again.

I look towards the boat, but I then spot something out of the corner of my eye and look to the right. Yup that's Winter's path seems to lead to the familiar landmark as it follows the slight curve in the path.

I gaze up at the horizon and then the tower as it casts a shadow in my direction. Yea...no.

I look towards the boat. Does that count as a 'building' that I shouldn't explore?

I'd say no, but I get the feeling Weiss might say yes given some thing I don't know.

Well since I'm uncertain I'll stay away from it. Besides, it looks like I would have to find a path down to it or…

Hmm.

The ground is dry… I gaze at the stone path and note the difference between my darkened shirt as I hug myself softly and the lightly colored stone upon which I stand.

I gaze back up at the sun and note that yes I am not in the shade so it shouldn't be super cold...

I bend over and lie down on the ground. First my knees and then my stomach as I flatten myself before folding my arms in front of me as I place my right hand over my left , then my head on top of my handmade pillow. Oh. I smile at that and then get comfortable as I begin to enjoy the ground… I can't say it's hot, in fact it is cold. The one redeeming thing here is that the ground is very dry, very different from the way I imagine the woods are right now.

I watch as the water in my clothes slowly pools around my resting place as it darkens the white stone to a darker grey.

I occasionally readjust my heads position from my hands to one of my arms, though I discover that the position is not as comfortable as I would have imagined.

I sigh and then roll over to my left,feeling the warm damp stone being replaced with a cold and dry surface, and relax on my back.

I don't mind the slight chill as It does warm up with time. I wiggle a little and lift my head before I put my hands behind and rest against the stone.

The sky is … lacking in clouds. My gaze shifts around, but I find nothing , but discover something uncomfortable.

My knuckles aren't exactly in a good spot at my palms act as a pillow for my head.

I pout. Ok fine. I sigh and lift my head slightly before pulling my hands out and…

What do I do with them now? Normally I use my hands or arms as a pillow, but I'm used to resting on my side… Well I guess I could wait… like Weiss does sometimes where she has her hands clasped. Now that I think about it… a lot of people do that when they are speaking to me… Memories of Weiss, and some of the staff pop up. Yes they do do that when they walk around…

When I get ready to fold my hands and rest them on my stomach I realize that I already did when I wasn't thinking about it.

Hmm. ok

My vision moves from watching my stomach rise and fall as I rest to the sky as I finally relax my neck and let my head touch the stone… It's not a pillow, but since it is flat it's not uncomfortable.

The wind slowly blows across the field as I hear the grass rustle , then feel a slight chill through my clothes, but between my body heat and the stone it's bearable. I think its actually helping me dry a little.

Now then...

So then what to do when I am dry?

I tap my shoes against each other and then lift them slightly to tap the heel against the stone as I wonder about that.

Well I need to avoid getting sprayed again so going into the woods themselves is a no no, but I could follow the path deeper. Then I could… Well there is that cabin, but I need to wait on going there. I guess I just need to follow the path till I find something not being sprayed. OH! I could run along the path since that way I avoid near misses due to my shoes being wet. Meaning…

I run… But… I crane my head to my left and see the tower. Unless I want to skirt the woods I should follow the path… Wait no I can follow edge of the woods and not get wet. That's a simpler idea, besides I can still keep my eyes on the tower so I don't need to directly follow the proper path to the woods.

Well then… Hmm. I drum my right fingers as they are interlinked with my left hand as I wonder what is going on elsewhere. Well I don't know what's off to my right, but I'd rather go deeper into the forest and while being able to see the tower. Oh there's an idea. I could get a look from up in the tower… and I've been up there before…

I frown as I realize that does lessen the experience of discovering something. Alright, let's just explore the woods from inside. I clap a single time at the idea and then move my right hand back as I push myself up onto my knees and then stand up to inspect myself.

Hmm… Flipping over actually helped a lot more than I expected. I grab the bottom of my shirt and shake it lightly. Yup I'm mostly dry on both sides now.

Ok then now that the ground has imparted me with some of its dryness, but sadly not all of it.

Oh well I'm better than I was before I sat down here, and I got some near snooze time.

Now then. I look up and ahead to the woods. I guess I should run over there and then off to the left.

I sprint over to the woods, as if somehow able to race myself. Oh I wish! I would make an amazing play buddy for myself. With that thought I happily increase my speed as I take a larger stride and power my legs to move faster.


13

The edge of the woods comes to meet me very quickly after about ten seconds. I then turn to the left and transition into a walk. With the idea of racing myself I wonder… I can't see the path, but I know it's somewhere around the corner of the woods. The grass isn't as good a running place as the stone, buuuut that's what I'm used to. Aaaannnnd go!

I run once more and feel the wind go by my as it both cools and dries my shirt. It's a very sharp sensation, but once I can associate with running sometimes. Particularly when I'm having fun!

I speed on through the corner and round it for several seconds before I can make out the path that I think runs into the woods. Ok that's my finish line, just go!

I race harder, since I know that If i was racing myself I would want to win…

With that thought I keep on pushing as I huff my way over to the place, but then pass it before I can properly stop. I then realize something

Wait… If I beat myself then didn't I win anyway? … Ohh that's a confusing thought.

I lose, yet I win, and If i win, I win.

Ummm

I don't know?

OH! What if I'm racing my previous selfs run. That makes more sense. So from here on if I did run, then I'm racing my previous self. That makes more sense, there can't be two of me at a given moment.

Hooo that was bugging me way more than it should have, but not anymore!

Now then… I turn my gaze to the left and back into the woods. I spot the signpost again, but note that yes I can't read anything here still. I chuckle to myself. I'm not that fast of a learner. Although I do see a few familiar letters, just not enough to make out what is written.

Anyway moving on! I walk into the woods and gaze around again at the woods as I watch the canopy move around. The faces and individuals I see vary. Oh! There is a man with a mustache like umm…. !

Well not a man, but just a face.

I spot several other things. Mainly things I have already seen, such as the tower, or a stone path, or one of those giant spires I remember seeing… Where?

Where was it that I saw a giant stone spire?

I start into a jog , as the path rose at a slight incline, as once I settle into it my thoughts shift back to the glowing stone spires.

….

I should know this… I think… Oh yes the island! They were very colorful too, like the ones I saw inside the island as well…

How could I almost forget that? That I literally my first memory that I don't have to struggle with… Well… No?

I guess sleeping is the first memory I have, then waking up and being unable to walk then the glowing stones and spires came later.

I had continued walking and could hear the spray of water, but largely ignored it as I made a point to properly remember what happened on the island. I count off the items I can with my fingers as I visualize the moments as they come to me.

Let's see so in summary… I woke up, struggled to walk, exited the underground after a very very long climb, fell asleep at the surface , woke up and explored, while falling asleep a few times. I found the edge of the island, then went looking for… people then the fog, then I… climbed and had to deal with things happening such as the shiny top of the island and the weird thing that happened with the booms and lights. Then I went underground and eventually… Somehow ended up here in a bed...

Wow I had forgotten a lot of that.

But… Did all of that happen or was it a dream?

Well dreams for me are usually a memory like when I napped in the tower, otherwise I just enjoy the sensation of sleeping.

Does that mean it was a memory?

Mmmm.

Ah I don't know! I have no way of proving it happened since anything can happen when I'm asleep. I mean what If I'm asleep right now. Wait no that's dumb I'm very much awake right now.

I shake my head at the thought.

Wait… Where am I?

I look around,having just become aware of my surroundings after deeply thinking on the matter of… complicated things.

I don't know how far I ran, but the canopy is thinner, no it is obstructed by the large cliff that towers over the fork in the path. The cliff stretches on for quite a distance and may be taller than some of the spires that make up the woods. I sit down for a moment as I catch my breath and watch the branches shadows move in the wind as their patterns move around… I guess when the sun is fully up the shadows will disappear from the path since there isn't that much of a canopy directly above me, just on either side. They do cast a shadow on the bottom portion of the jagged cliff.

Hmm… Now that I think about it. This is one of the first natural stone landmarks. We have stone buildings, stone Piers, stone towers, stone paths… That everything? Ummm. I think so?

Well let's figure out a better question, where should I go? I need to find a suitable play area.

Hmm. I walk from one end of the fork to the other, looking down them for something, aside the wind moved shadows, nothing of interest is visible. I suppose I just pick one?

Left or Right? Either option doesn't seem to hold more appeal than the other.

Hmm… Or…

I could try climbing the cliff. That way I could find something interesting and perhaps see from up top what the paths have. What's more it's not the woods! Very important matter. I'm not climbing down one of those today… at least until I find a very good wooden spire to climb. Though… considering how big the woods are, finding a perfect perch may take awhile… Or I suppose there are many potential perches, just it might take time to find one.

Haaaa. So I'm climbing this? I walk from one side of the rock face, then the other as I search for a best way up. Well I can walk along part of it, but then I'm going to have to climb from one rock wall to another. Buuut there are some ways up there. Ok well let's get to it!

I energetically head for the base of the cliff and take my first step forward.

The base of the cliff is largely an area I can walk over. I takes steps from one large rock to another and tentatively climb over the and around the scattered rocks. This part is particularly easy since there is mostly grass and the ground is relatively level… No it's ascending a little, but nothing I can't handle. Hmm… now that I think about it.

I stop about halfway and look around the vary boulders. This would make for a nice resting spot. There's sunshine, slightly inclined hill for me to rest on, and...honestly that's all I need.

Ok note another good place to nap… I wonder. If it's nice down here, then it must be nice up there right?

I continue around the white boulders. Some of them are rounder, but others have cracks and have been split by something. Wait… I look at the rocks and then a large cut out of part of the cliff… maybe?

I gaze at the cliff again, taking in the jagged rock wall , covered by moss near the bottom and top, but for the most part the middle is a glistening white or grey, except for a blueish gray coloring that zigzags down part of the rock wall on the right below the partial cavity in the cliff where I think some of the rocks came out… Wait rocks don't just fly out of rocks.

But… there are more rocks near the right side of the base.

Well no time to think about that I'm at the base now itself.

I rub my hands. Ok now the real climbing begins.

I hop onto a rock,balance myself quickly with my torso, then spot another place and hop to it.

The rock wall is fairly jagged so this is pretty easy for me to just hop from one outcropping to another.

I just… don't have much of a starting run to go with.

I wind up my legs and throw myself at another rock, making sure to lead with my right foot.

Reason being I don't want to fall that way. If I'm going to fall I would rather it be into the cliff… although that would hurt my head… and I could probably just land on a lower outcropping , though it might be uncomfortable. Well then. Guess I should just avoid falling in the first place.

I scout out a good place for my shoe to land and jump to another outcropping. When I land I reach out for the ground with my hand and then the rock wall with my left. Keeping a hand on the wall I turn around and face the left. Now I just need to jump some more, but I'm only a third of the way up?

I gaze up then down, taking in the view of the woods from where I am. Hmm just like I thought this is very much like climbing wood, just a lot of jumping… But there may then be a point where my hands come into play… Well! I did it the other time so this shouldn't be any different!

Speaking of the height… I angle out my left hand and size up the woods and then my relative height to the ground… I'm just a little higher than the view from my window… Would that make this a three story view?

Hmm. well it is a good view, which must mean that the view from up top is even better.

I tap the outcropping with my shoe and then fling my arms forward, back, forward again, back once more, and throw myself at the next outcropping.

It takes several more jumps, but since I have a solid wall to steady myself against each time it's a fairly simple matter to climb, until I realize something.

There are no more easy platforms. Just thin, very thin footholds. Umm…

I look for a good spot from my position and spot something off to the right. Right… that blue rock area…

It has that zigzag area that runs from the middle up close to the top. I might be able to fit in and climb… or I could… climb the rock face I just would need to find good parts of the cliff to hang on to. There are some easier spots once I get a little higher where it's almost sheets of rock…

Ehh i'm already on this side of the rock wall so I'll climb the sheets.

Finding a position I stretch my arms out and find something to hold onto with my fingers and begin to ascend the sheer wall.

I find that I have to move my legs a lot more than expected as I pull with my arms, abs, and my thighs as I hike my right foot up onto a position , once secure I pull the rest of myself up and reach out with my right arm for a spot I had marked. In a new position I scanned the rocks above me as I search for a new perch.

This is going alot slower than I imagined, but… Given my position right now… I have better things to do than complain. I test my current perch on more time and then reach over to the left as I try to keep my right foot firm for as long as possible. I hold myself with my left hand and leg , entirely dependent on them when my right limbs move to share the small spot. It's not a completely vertically aligned perch. I'm partially leaning to the left as I try to keep my abs firm to maintain a proper balance.

Like this I slowly make my way over to the left as I ascend. I have my lips pursed and my brow furrowed as my focus is sharper than ever before. I look over my shoulder for a moment… Yes… branch hopping is one thing, but this…

Below me the outcroppings no longer look like supports, but spikes ready to receive me If I fall. And if somehow I miss them the rocks further down are… OHH from up here I can tell that at least one rock fell on another and was smashed into pieces.

...completely different and because of that I slowly turn my attention back to the wall and climb.

The wind is a much more prominent thing up here. The rock does not move for the wind, the woods,perhaps, but not the rock. The only thing up here is me and whenever a slightly stronger wind comes by, nay, anytime the wind comes by I stop.

I shimmy as I make several small movements up a jagged series of rocks. I lightly kick the areas my hands used as I fit my more cumbersome appendage into a usable position after each small ascension.

There are multiple little climbs and each time I finish one goal, be it a jagged wall that slightly pokes me, or simply finding a good spot to climb to as I hang out, or even balancing myself as I dry my hands after nearly slipping.

At one point I almost feel like I'm walking through only the left side of my shoes are making contact with the wall as I wind myself back to the center. I don't even have a solid perch with my arms and simply have to move along , delicately crossing one leg over the other, then wondering how to get my left leg in front again, only to just commit to it until I have to practically spread my right arm out as far as it can to hold the edge of a rock that goes up diagonally back to the left.

I struggle and pull my right leg up again and onto it, but my left arm and leg have no purchase , except to clamp down on the rock and pin myself to it as I move my right arm, then the leg. A slightly cool terror at the idea of releasing both of my right limbs and plummeting is kept out of my head simply by the sheer amount of attention that is required.

When I finally got to the top of that rock sheet I place my feet on it as I held a rock out to my left and rested for a moment, then reached out with my left arm to grab a rock that was above me and realize. That I had to go without my feet touching anything for a bit…. No just a moment I need to hold onto this spot with my right… so I'm going need to switch and then reach with my left for a spot , then twist my hips , abs and heave my left leg onto an indent… then my right leg will need to cross between that and… ho boy I'll almost be sideways and have to work my way up.

And I do.. Then discover that the closer I get to the top the colder the rock is and… I discover something.

I don't like water. My shoes are sweaty , so I'm rubbing them against the back of my legs and my hands against anything that will do. Thankfully that part where I went horizontal was the hardest thing I had do to, but when I looked out over to the right I realized that the middle was terrible as I would have to make several of those while going along the inside of a cavity, the only benefit is that I would be able to rest before hand.

Not my rock though.

After having held rock in my hands for so long it was weird feeling grass and my hand retreated down for a rock that I could that didn't have it, problem being I can't see what's on the other side of these rocks as I go up.

The grass did mean though that I was closer to the top.

A smile appears on my face, but disappears,not due to a particular event, but my mind simply not thinking about smiling.

I reach over the rock and dig my fingers in a crack and hold it as I pull myself up. I had finally made it to the sheets and simply needed to make a slow burn through this as I grabbed the almost pillar like sheet that ran up to a much better perch where I could actually walk. Taking a deep breath I fit my hand into one crack, then the other as I slowly pulled myself up, while I fixed my position my squeezing with my shoes. First I would move one arm , then the opposite leg, till I had to start using my left leg to perch myself against a rock when part of the pillar simply became something I couldn't grip due to it become too large. At that moment both my hands had to share the same crack and I put a great amount of pressure on either side, till finally I reached the sheet where I could walk.

At the top I did one thing first. I took off my shoes, and then walked up the last bit of rock , which was more of a path compared to everything else and sat down on the grass near the top, before I began to rub my feet and my heels which were experiencing sharp pain, seemingly aware that I was no longer using them for that. Once that was done I just pumped both fists into the air ,then flattened myself against the ground as I smiled.

AHHHhhhhhhh.

I stretch myself and lift my hands toward the royal blue sky as I attempt to reach for the broken moon which is still up above., then settle with leaving my hands in my new resting position as in intertwine my hands on my stomach.

The wind is noticeably stronger up here, but it doesn't solicit a response where I entrench myself. From where I am right now it's just relaxing…

Ah! It almost tickles as the grass moves against my skin under the winds care.

I reach out and stretch my arms as I keep my fingers linked, having my palms facing out above.

Hmm? Wait… noooooo…..

I notice something I had completely forgotten. A little brown band around my left wrist.

Trepidation washes over me, replacing the sense of achievement gained from the climb.

I take a breath and flip my watch to see the time.

5:42.

That's almost twenty minutes! I throw myself up into a standing position with a newfound objective.

Find a way back to the White Rose before six.


14

I need a way back and fast! I have not kept track of the time at all so I don't even...AAHHH I don't even know how long it took me to get here. Infact I don't even know how long it took to climb this place!

Oh…

I look over the ledge.

Nope I will definitely not make that.

I look for the familiar silhouette of the tower and spot its darkened figure off to the left.

Ok so the White Rose is off to the right somewhere.

So the real question is how to get down quickly, without going and hurling myself off the ledge.

I look behind me and notice that despite being this far from the house, there is a rectangular stone table with two benchs on either side… and a familiar stone path. Alright.

I walk over to the bench and seat myself to put my shoes on, since I didn't untie them when I took them off I just have to fit my foot into it and struggle with it for a moment, before working with the other shoe.

I twist my foot around a little to confirm that it is snug and stand up.

Right so I need to follow the path till I end up below the ledge again and the cut across the woods to the White Rose.

I run down the path , not even allowing myself a chance to take in what is around me as I descend the path down the hill.

My sole focus being that I don't crash down the hill is all the keeps me from running as fast as possible.

I straighten my back for balance and make my way down before finding that the path splits both ways…

Ohhhh that's frustrating. I could have just… not my problem!

I take the left, passing some hollow building that has rails surrounding most of the bottom and columns that support a dome above. Why build a something with no walls?

Again not my problem!

The wooden spires and the surrounding canopy greet me once I'm finally get down the hill and I hold left and sprint toward the front of the rock face.

I huff as I feel a burning sensation in me as I finally go as fast as possible.

The rock face on my left quickly soars in height as it gives way to larger and steeper stone wall, only separated from me by a small region of grass and other vegetation.

Once I finally make it to the clearing at the front I break off the path and plunge into the woods.

Not long after entering I make out a droning sound ahead of me.

Pssshhht.

Ughhh. Not my problem!

I pass one of the many spires and then I see the domes of water.

Oh! They are currently smaller. Lucky timing!

I sprint faster, but immediately catch something with my shoe as it sinks a little more. I correct for it, but realize I'm leaning too far forward to adjust correctly. I end up reaching for the oncoming ground and stop my fall that way, but only manage to hold myself for a moment given my speed so I still end up meeting the ground, just less painfully.

I fold my arms out from where they protected my face and push myself up as I run around the domes, but then realize something.

I'm losing time this way!

Ok!

I straighten my course and burst through the small domes as they hit my waist until eventually I find myself running through them entirely, making sure to remember to block the water with my hand since that was helpful earlier.

The only real thing I need to run around are the spires and that is something tha-

The woods disappeared to reveal yet another path. I flew down the embankment I and looked up to see another embankment leading to yet more woods, but I remembered to look both ways and on the left I could make out the fountain.

Alright!

I turned and sprinted down the path toward the end of the hallway of spires and when I finally exited I noticed that this path did lead to the fountain, but before that there was an exit on the right that happened to be right in front of the main entrance to the White Rose. I would simply need to get there, turn a right and go straight.

I continue running, make it to that bend and head for one of the two massive door I pass under the large arch,over the marble flooring and when I finally grab the large handle I realize something as I stare at the bottom.

I'm wet… My shoes, pants and shirt are varying levels of muddy, gritty from climbing, or covered in small blades of grass.

Mmmmmnnn.

I need to clean up…

I look around… and realize I have nothing that can do that right now.

With my body finally no longer warmed by the running I begin to shiver yet again.

Ahh I don't have time for this… I'm cold! Haaaa.

But being clean is my problem.

Wait. I don't have to be clean. I just need to not get anything on the rug!

What did that the most the last time was my shoes so!

I begin to rub my feet against the doormat. I rub it in firmly and twist my feet a little before inspecting them.

There is still a few blades of grass.

No time to pick off each one so!

I sit down and take of my shoes, still not bothering to untie them since learning that I can just put them on already tied.

Now then. I flip my left wrist and look at the silver piece.

Time is… 5:58.

Right then. Holding both of my shoes close to my chest I step around where I cleaned them against the mat and reach out with my right arm and open the door.

No time to check anything just runrunrunrun!

I'm down the hallway in a flash,crossing the blue rug in an instant, only slowing down to pass the door that impede me. I hear the door slam behind me and I internally cringe. I then pass through the tunnel that has two sets of doors on either side, up the ramp and into the gray room. The door at the end of it is where my bare feet take me. I stop, open the door and close it quietly behind myself before sprinting around the circular hallway for a way down.

I find the door I used previously on the left and slow myself only to open and close the door before running down the stairs.

At the bottom of the first set of stairs I pass my shoes over into the care of my left arm and grab the rail as I haul myself around the bend before going down the second flight. I pass through another door , making sure not to slam it and run for the gym door. I stop just in front of the door and take a breath and look at my left arm…

My shoe is blocking my vision.

I pick one off and glance at my left wrist.

6!

Ahh!

Wait by 6! Open the door!

I listen to my inner self and pass into the gym.

I walk down the aisle, passing the machines on either side and see something shiny... Mr. Laufer quietly working at the desk.

The quiet bothers me right then.

I walk right up to the desk and wait a moment. Green eyes look up at me, down at something,then back to me.

"While I give you points for punctuality, I said be back by six, not at six. If you intend to live around here I would recommend that you keep track of time so you don't have to run from… wherever you went. You should also…"

I could make out a typing sound from Mr. Laufer.

"Make a point of being at least five minutes early.

"Now even if it is only a minutes difference…" He eyed me and the pout I had, and the inner complaint evaporated into apologies.

"Or five, you were still insure that you don't repeat that mistake I will assign someone to you. The specifics of that will be dealt with later. As for your clothes leave them out on the bench in your room downstairs. Make sure to clean up."

I nod nervously and walk away to the stairs on the left.

"Oh and sir."

I look back.

He points slightly below, to my chest."good job on listening to me about the shoes. Now go get changed."

I smile ,somewhat conflicted between my mistake on being here by six and happy that despite that I didn't bring in any dirt… well aside from what is on me, but my feet are clean!

I head down the first flight of stairs, make a right, then down the second and run to my VIP room on the right. Number three...


15

I pass inside. So shiny! I don't know why but it makes me smile a little. It's kinda cheerful. I spot the bench immediately begin to take off everything.

but...

First things first though. I put my black shoes and white socks on the bench,leaving the socks inside the shoes.

I then reach for the bottom of my blue shirt and pull it up and over my head, then bend my back forward as I get it off onto the bench as I let it slide off.

The similarly colored mesh shorts come next as push them down, letting it release my hips from the waistline that somehow just snaps into position otherwise. It is kinda.. Stretchy.

Something falls out of my pants and hits the floor

Jing!

Oh right they key! I forgot about you. Lets see thats something important so place it on the bench as well.

Then my … damp underwear… I take off the item, noting that it is warmer than my shirts or pants were before placing it next to the rest of the items in an organized pile.

Lets see shoes.. Let's take out the socks.. Then the shirt, pants, and underwear

Ok all done now…now I clean up.

Oh right I get to go in the shower that Mr. Laufer showed me! I even have my own this time… although now that I think about it didn't I have one in the other room as well, just now, the room is mine?

Yes.I nod. Yes I did.

Wait so are both mine then?

Mmmm. lets just go enjoy the shower.

I walk back towards the shower. I push the curtain aside and once more notice just how shiny everything is. Now in the small hallway that leads to the right. I follow it ,spot the bench against the right side of the wall and a towel handing above it.

Across the bench of course is the shower. Soo shiny!

My sides rapidly move as I giggle for some reason. It's just a fun thing to say!

SHINY!

Hahahaha!

I step inside with a smile and find the thing I'm supposed to grab.

OH!

It has the letter C on it.

HAHAHA! I read something!

Ok well lets see what C means.

I turn it up and get doused in cold, relaxing water.

Ohhhhh that feels good after all that running.

I shake my head a little and rub my face.

When I cup my hand I notice something. The water is pooling in my hand.

An idea forms in my mind. Something vague, but I run with it.

I splash the water against my face. I then inhale and blow really hard as the water is pushed away.

Woah!

I do that a few more times , then stare at the drain near the center , noticing the blades of grass that are going towards it in a slightly grayer water.

Soo I'm clean now right?

I turn off the C and walk back towards the towel. I pick the white clothe of fluffiness and dry my face to get rid of some water that was blocking my eyes from opening.

Ok all good now!

I put the towel back up , make a right to the curtain and when I hit the end of the small hallway I make a left turn at the corner and pass through the curtain back into the room.

hmm.

I need clothes.

Right I left the on the counter by the sinks. I walk to the other end of the room and stop near the door before I exit left into the bathroom.

I spot… my clothes…?

No they are folded now.

Still my clothes?

Yes? This is my room so… the clothes are also mine?

I pull off the new set of dry underwear first and put step into it.

I then grab my white pants and walk back to the bench. There is some water on it so I move away from my dirty clothes and sit down to put on the white long pants.

Once I have them up to my knees I stand up and bring it up the rest of the way as I hop to avoid stepping on the pants from the inside. When I do have it up all the way I zip the zipper and button the button.

Ok… I walk back into the bathroom.

White shirt!

I pull it off and hold it by the waistline before I put my hands inside ,pushing the sides apart to hold it in place as I raise my hands over my head.

The white shirt falls down with a small whoosh and push my hands out from where I had them close to my chest.

The grey socks end up in my left hand and my black topsiders in my right.

I pay one more visit back to the bench and slip on my socks, then my shoes.

I look to my right and grab the don't forget about this again….

What if…

What if It fell out of my pocket when I was climbing? Or anytime while I was out?

Right don't do that.

I put the key in my right pocket and look around. Well.. HAAaaa. Back to the bed I suppose?


16

I hop up from the bench and exit my shiny room. Right bed is..somewhere past those stairs on the left.

I mentally visualize my route. Up the stairs, out the gym, through the hallway, up more stairs, through another hallway to a .. Oh right a side exit, then to the fountain, over the bridge, OH! I can enter from the front of the building so… through that underground area then around the front of the house, in the front entrance, up the stairs , down the hallway , make a left at the end and there is my room!

Right then!

I make my way over to the stairs and walk steadily up them. I'm not in a rush this time.

I hit the end of the first set of stairs and turn left to go up the second.

Though… I might want to get in bed sooner?

I pick up my pace and hop off the last step onto the gym floor.

I walk by the desk and wave goodbye. Mr. Laufer seems busy so… I hold my hand and leave him alone.

I move to the gym entrance, practically springing on my legs with eagerness to get in those oh so soft sheets.

The memory of that hastens me and I take a few final and larger strides.

I quietly pass through the door and into the circular hallway.

My time there is short as I quickly find a door on the opposite side of the hallway that leads to stairs. Once the door is carefully closed , I fly up the steps as I rapidly hop my way up.

When I finish the first set of stairs I grab the rail with my left hand and swing myself around as I pull my left arm , then cheerfully ascend the stairs to the main floor.

I stop at the door and slowly walk through it, letting go once it is shut. Now then…

I should try and find that side exit.

I begin to slowly walk down the hallway, looking to my left for a proper looking exit.

I've missed it several times now so it's somewhere that I. ah right I didn't look for it because that would go against what Weiss asked.

No… well yes? I roll my head to the side as I wonder.

I didn't know that it existed in the first place… well yes because I didn't look!

Haaa. I know of it now and I. just need to remember roughly where it is so I get the right…

OH! It's not a door, there's a hallway that leads to the exit door!

Go me…

I run , but immediately transition into a quick walk as I'm internally warned by Cereza and .

I follow the hallway, ignoring what's around me and sure enough there is an exit.

Well the door to the small room. I open the door and enter the small room. It looks exactly like the other exit, it even has the same furniture. I head down the set of steps to the main floor of the room and walk up to the glass door.

And there is the house across the yard in the distance.

I open the door and walk out under the circular shelter over the immediate entrance, passing a column before I take five steps down to the main outdoor area… hmmmm.

Hmmmmmm.

I pause as I feel something… not so much a memory, but a thought.

Hmmmmmmm.

I don't know why, but I feel like people would party here.

I look at the rail , separated from me by a criss cross of petals engraved into the stone floor.

Not so soon. Besiiiiiides. The need to stretch overtakes me. Aaaaaaaahhh. Uhh. beside i'm not exactly feeling terribly active. Wait no. I am active, just for my bed.

That made more sense before I thought it.

Which is down those three steps flanked by rails.

I walk across to the steps, tucking my hands into my pockets to keep my hands warm as I go down the steps.

Left, then… Can't I just cross the yard?

Yes. Yes I can.

I cut across the yard and begin to swiftly walk over to the near side of the building. The library prominently stands ,presently unavailable to me… unless I go through the windows, but that isn't necessary… and impossible. The windows on this side of it are very high up.

I angle myself to the right and cut to the right corner of the library and spot yet more windows, this time though they are much larger windows that are vertically ascend from a little bit above me to cover most of the middle of the building in large stripes. On the right of me is a large stone floor that as long as the library… with absolutely nothing on it.

My attention changes to the grass and the circular driveway with a fountain in the middle that sits at the rectangular end of… is that the emblem again?!

Wow. that thing really is everywhere. Now that I think about it wasn't it also artistically embedded in the windows?

I walk past the library and onto the driveway for a short time before getting on the front steps to the house.

I happily open the large door and close it behind me before taking a deep, relaxing breath inside. It is much warmer inside!

Haaaaa.

Right then. I look to the right and go up the steps before stopping at the end of the flight, between the first and second floor. I hold the rail for a few moments as I overlook the room.

Now that I think about it… There are shiny things everywhere in the house itself, just not the rooms. Like the things I gaze upon, my mood brightens a little under the warmth in the house. I suppose I could do one good thing before nodding off again.

I continue my ascension along the next flight of steps to the left and end up in the upper floor.

I pass by the meeting room and make a left after noticing the picture with the piano again.

The trip to my room just seems to last a moment and when I stop in front of the door.

Oh! I did close it.

I exhale and push the door inward with my right hand by the doorknob.

I'm back! Now then… first things first. Time to put on my pajamas.

I close the door and look around.

I walk to the left, around the bed and realize something when I see my white,shiny,soft, and oh so smooth pajamas folded and placed on the chair.

I left my clothes on floor… In fact… I gaze to my right from the chair and see that the bed has also had its dark blue sheets folded again and the silver sheets underneath were peeking out as they were folded over the blue near the head of the bed.

I smile and begin to remove my white shirt. I bend my torso to the ground and shake my white shirt off as it inverts. It falls to the ground and shortly after that I unbutton my similarly colored pants and step out of them.

Or attempt to. I realize they pool around my feet as my shoes are still on.

I sit down on the soft blue rug and pull off both of my black topsiders with the pants in tow.

I grab my grey socks and remove them from my left, then right foot. Right then leave that there…

I stand up and walk over to the chair from in front of my bed and grab the white pajama shirt first, the softness of this only compares with the bed.

Why can't normal clothes be this comfortable?

It seems like a fantastic idea.

I mean really now. With that in mind I run my hands over the fabric and unbutton the shirt after unfolding it with a shake.

It would definitely be a good idea. I bet I could fall asleep anywhere like that!

With the shirt unbuttoned I slide my arms into the long sleeves and begin to button up.

I mean like this anywhere becomes comfortable. I finish and gaze down at myself. Well not quite. I still need my pants. Otherwise it's… a little chilly.

Right then… I sit on the chair with my back to the window and tug at the white article under me. I sigh and lift myself off to then fit my feet inside , pleasantly enjoying the smooth sensation as the clothe runs along my legs.

Alright! I stand up again and look to my left and see my bed. I walk over to the bed and hop on then crawl my way over to the head. I lift the sheets as I curl myself up, then push my legs inside the silver sheet below the dark blue. I wiggle until my head it just above the covers.

I inhale and let out a long exhale.

Ah right!

I move around my sheets and head to the right side of my bed as I near the desk by the head of the bed.

I look for something and find a blue binder with that emblem on it.

I reach out for the item, but discover that from where it sits at the center of the desk I'm unable to retrieve it.

I partially slide out of the bed,pressing my stomach against the wooden desk till I'm able to get my right hand on the item.

Great!

I look around.

Great…

Off the desk or…

I grab the edge with my left hand and push myself backwards in one,two,three,four small scoots as my shirt smoothly runs along the surface. By then I'm able to manage getting back in the bed.

Hmm. This shirt makes for good sliding action!

Now then. I get comfortable against the pillows and open the binder and watch as a pen falls out onto the sheets covering my lap.

I transfer the binder to my left hand and grab the pen. Right then just… practice a little bit then bedtime.

Hmm… I draw the first bit of the letter A, getting the first triangle and then bridging the middle. Once I did it slowly , but then sped up just a little as I thought of words to go along with it.

Any,Anything,Anybody,Anywhere?

All,oh Air,...

I tapped the pen against the paper.

A counts by itself then…

Also,Add,Addition,And…

Ok thats ten. Now B...b.b.b….

Best,Big,Bigger,Biggest,Blue,Bed,

No wait that's Wei- no her bed is just taller…

Hmm, back to it.

B.b.b…

Black,boat,BOOk,and...Binder.

C…

Cool,cold,care,clean.

Chilly,comfort,caring,careful,climb,and climbing.

Hmm…

Dark,Dirty, Dog oh right the doggie statue that was fun! Then I got to meet- Remember to use the word fun.

I curl up a little bit and think.

D…

...


17

Mr. Clutch's POV

The managerial office was empty aside for a single maid when I entered. She was a Brunette with her hair in a bun, very professional. Very good to see that some of the staff take their attire more seriously than others. A much needed reprieve from . I sighed for a moment as an image of the spiky blonde and his stubble.

I take a sip from my cup of tea as I ponder my newfound dilemma. I need a kettle that I can keep up here.

Why is it that I never seem to do well with chefs? I shake my head, ridding myself of the image.

Right then. I raise a gloved hand and cough to get her attention.

"And you are?"

The maid turns to me. I study the face and realize I don't know this one. Must have been cleared to work here while I was assigned to Jacques.

Piercing green eyes framed by rectangular glasses make contact with my own.

Is she inspecting me? Oh, you're far too young to not be worrying about yourself.

"Per new scheduling I'm to assist the staff here, will anyone else be arriving?"

Straight to business.

"I will be enough I'm sure these hands can do some paperwork."

I set down my cup by the head of the table, then walk over to her.

She turns away and walks to a desk and I begin to follow her.

"If it's going to be the two of us then I need to take up the papers.

Oh? I look around and spot papers evenly divided amongst the tables.

Is she really all I'm assigned? This is a fair amount of paperwork for her, even if she has me. I guess I may have to do 70% of the papers unless I wish to see how much she can do.

I suppose letting her do 40% would be about right. I'll just need to pace myself so I don't finish before her. That and I may need to be discreet about my amount of labor.

I walk to the opposite side of the room as I stack the papers precariously, yet confidently onto my left hand. When the stack gets to a certain point I leave it at the main desk, by my seat.

"Place your papers over by the center desk miss."

The young lady doesn't respond, but does as instructed.

Oh i see she had these stacks organized already by topic.

It takes five trips, but by then all of the papers are relocated. I take a seat next to my cup and savor it for a moment before I tend to my first order of business.

I reach into my breast pocket and pull out my scroll.

I scroll through my contact and till I reach the bottom and find Winter Retreat Gym Instructor. I call and raise the scroll to my right ear.

riiiiing,riiiiiing,ri-

"Hello?"

"Have you had time to read the schedule changes?"

"Oh ."

" ."

"Ah yes sir, finished making my requests in response to the changes."

"I trust there were no complications."

"No sir, just some accommodations as I happen to be in need of another body."

"Excuse me?"

"Sir, no matter how good I am, I can't be in two places at once."

"So you are in need of staff?"

"Present… hold on."

….

….

….

Did he just leave?

….

….

….

….

He did.

….

….

….

….

I sigh as I continue the paperwork, despite having one ear to the scroll.

….

….

….

"..-hello yes? You still there?"

I'm not going anywhere .

"What happened?"

"Well funny thing…"

"…"

"You see one of the staff joined me. I guess they are off regular duty because I have no idea who this is."

"You don't say. I was going to look into that as something similar happened to me recently, but I suppose this answers my question and strangely keeps me from needing to do something I had planned. Anything else that I should know about?"

"No sir… well actually I did get an early visit from the young man."

"Define early."

"0430."

"I see, well? What happened?"

"He came , acquired something he needed, then left till six. I imagine he's back over in your building."

"Hmm… think we could adjust his schedule to include the additional hours?"

"I wouldn't recommend it sir given both his age and the fact that he has yet to deal with a regular schedule around here."

"Alright. I'll leave it to you then. I have some other work that needs tending to so I will leave you. Oh and the paperwork will get back to you, assuming you had anything you needed other than staff."

"I do, just cut the staff request , I still need everything else I requisitioned."

"I see, that will be all then."

I hang up,pocket the scroll, and look over to the miss sitting across from me across the long table.

"If you come across a requisition for staff from the White Rose Gym, ignore the staff request."

"Any additional requests?"

"Just the staff request."

The lady continues to work quietly.

Nice and quiet.

I take a sip from my tea and resume my work. This could take awhile if i'm to keep pace with her.

Oh well,it shouldn't be a problem. Just need to keep at it.


A/N

Ello all. thinking back on it now I realized why I write as much as I do. When I was younger I was a voracious reader so... yea. whether that is a boon or detriment to my writing I have no idea, but I have identified a probable cause. So hope you enjoyed the chapter as much as I did writing it. any tips would be appreciated. Till then I will continue this experiment of finding my happy middle ground for writing as I don't intend to stop this, just experiment with it.

Take care!