Chapter 5
The Schnee Estate. A large, eloquent manor filled with wide open corridors, and large rooms meant for visitors, relatives, or close friends. But, this time in particular, this beautiful palace would be used for a large party hosted by none other than the Schnee family itself.
This gathering was not due to an accomplishment, nor is it a celebration or an anniversary, but it is a means of assurance. To show the people of Vale, and all the people of Remnant, that the Schnee Company has changes their means of labor. During the party, a representative of the White Fang will give a few words of conformation that the past is now behind them, and to look forward to a new future.
Jonathan walked the streets of Vale, lost and confused. It was the day after his meeting with Adam, and the lack of food was starting to get to him. He would try to steal something, but he wouldn't feel right doing it. Despite a few instances of desperation, Jonathan was against stealing from other people. He didn't want to be just some homeless crook on the street, he actually believed that he could one day leave this life, and have a chance a t being successful.
However, that heart of gold just might be the end of him. His body started t fell lighter, and his head would sometimes go blank. The weather was no help either. Sure there were people on the streets, enjoying the moments of winter, but the frosted air only made it harder on the boy. Although his body was failing, his resolve was true, and he would rather die on the street, than be known as a criminal.
Some may call it a stroke of luck, or fate shining upon him, either way, Jonathan noticed a sign on one of the shops in the market place.
"To the people of vale. You have cordially invited to a party in at the Schnee residents December 20th,in honor of a new and brighter future for everybody…"
The ad seems to include the events being held and a few extra details Jonathan chose to ignore. However, he did notice some important information at the end.
"Formal attire is required. See you there!"
Not only did Jonathan not have the money for clothing, but he wouldn't even know where to get it. Now Jason was starting to get desperate, and the thought of all the sweet, succulent, cuisines they would be serving. His mind started to wander in all sorts of different directions. Eventually he caved into his hunger, and started to march to the nearest clothing store.
It seemed as if he had walked for a mile, but he finally arrived at a clothing store that was "Formal." Jonathan walked in, immediately feeling outmatched and outclassed just by the atmosphere. This feeling was similar to the one at the dinner, the feeling that you don't belong where you are. Never the less, Jonathan walked through the store, looking for the right thing to wear for the occasion, unaware of the footsteps trothing behind him.
After a few minutes of meandering around the store, he saw what looked like the perfect outfit for him, a light green, buttoned down, shirt sleeve shirt, dark black dress pants, and black dress shoes. The outfit seemed more perfect than he envisioned, however, the price was far beyond the budget of free. Jonathan Stared to put the items in a plastic bag, if he ran now he might be able to get away from the clerk. That would have been the case, if the clerk wasn't as close by as he thought.
"Excuse me, sir."
The boy froze in spot, turning ever so slowly to the figure behind him.
"You were planning to pay for those, weren't you?"
He reacted fast, and straitened himself in a very eloquent manner. "Of course I was! What do you take me for, some, peasant!?" The boy stuttered.
"Well, pardon my assumptions but, you're dressed like a homeless man, and you shoved all your items in that bag faster than a racehorse." Woman said.
He stood there completely dumbstruck. The woman towered over him, and threw daggers with her eyes. There was a long, awkward pause before the Woman continued to speak.
"Son, where are you parents?"
There was no getting around her, and he no longer had the heart or the energy to lie. "I don't have parents, miss. I was planning on stealing an outfit to go to this party."
The woman decided to ponder. "Party? What's so special about this party that you ned to resort to measures such as this?"
Jonathan looks at the ground, disappointed with himself. "I… I thought I could get some free food. Now it seems pretty stupid but. Miss, you have to understand, I haven't had hardly anything to eat in three days, and I ca-"
"Stop." He blonde said. Kneeling down to reach the boy's level. Only then did the boy notice the cat ears on her head.
She's a Faunus. He thought.
"You seem like a nice boy, but I can't give these cloth out for free." The female cat said. Jonathan started to lower his head in disappointment.
"However, allow me to propose an exchange of services." He enlightened.
The boy raised his head. "What do you mean?" The male cat said, confused about the woman's offer.
"I'll give you the outfit and, you can repay me sometime in the future. Do we have a deal?"
Jonathan's face brightened at the woman's offer. "Wait, but, won't your boss get mad at you?"
"Boss? I'm the owner of this store." The woman walks to the door and opens it for him, just remember the deal we made, alright?"
He ran towards the woman, grabbing her hand and shaking it vigorously. "Thank you, thank you miss. I promise I'll come back."
"Ah, ha, ha. You welcome. Run along now."
Jonathan almost ran out the door, but he needed to know one more thing before he left.
"Wait, I'm sorry. I didn't get you name."
She smiled at the boy's manners. "Hmp. It's Serra. Thank you for asking. Now go Jonathan, time is running out."
With that, the boy raised his thumb to her and ran off into the snow, once again, brightened by the kindness of another. All the pieces were in place, and now they will fall where they may. The only thing left is to watch the show.
Oh snap! Wait… How did she know Jonathan's name? Eh. Probably not important.
Favorite and follow.
