The grey wolf laid in darkness, the sound of water dripping slowly echoing all around him. It was so quiet, so peaceful. He could stay here forever if he wanted to.
I don't want to wake up
I wasn't even asleep. Urgh, I just want to be a shell, then I don't have to wake up or sleep. Ever
Unfortunately for the wolf, the peace didn't last long, and bright light streamed in through the opened curtains of his bunk forcing his eyes open. Collot, one of his roommates, a sheep dog, smiling face had greeted him.
"Legoshi! You can't just sleep the day away you know? Rise and Shine, Mr. Scary Face"
Playfully he pulled at the wolf's cheek and began to drag him out of his bed. Everyone else was up and about, getting ready to face the day. Miguno and Jack were putting on their uniforms while Durham exits the bathroom, and with Voss siting on the edge of his bed. Chuckling Durham looks down at Legoshi, as he was dragged along the floor, putting no effort into moving a muscle. "Legoshi, something tells me that you didn't study for the math test today either, huh?"
"Nope"
"Well, I sure know that feeling"
"Hurry up and get changed Legoshi", Collot says but Jack knows something is up with his friend, something was troubling him. It wasn't hard to miss, he knows Legoshi deals with a lot of personal issues, he wasn't sure when the last time he saw him with a smile on the wolf's face.
No, something's wrong. His mood is even darker today.
The retriever stares at his best friend, but Legoshi was too tired to notice. His eyes glanced down to see the blue carnation that was laying right next to his pet beetle's container. It was hers. She must have left it here by accident, carefully picking it up with his hand, he inhales the scent. It was still there; the scent was beautiful and sweet like she claimed it to be. But it was nothing compared to how her scent smelled to him, he could smell fragments of her scent still remain on petals of the flower. Last night, he didn't want her to go, he wanted her to stay, all that time when they were together, the way that she talked to him, the way that she accepted him, she treated him as a person, like one that actually had real feelings.
That was the first time other than a carnivore, not be frightened by his appearance nor by his species. Is it true on what she said? That he wasn't a monster?
His eyes rose up to view his reflection staring back at him, still holding the carnation his hand. But staring longer into the glass, he is reminded himself of the darkness that took a hold of him that night, how he had almost ended her very life. How could he be that close to her? She was oblivious that she was in the arms of her assailant when he carried her to safety, what was she doing to him?
A gentle yawn escaped my lips as my eyes fluttered open, I just wanted to stay in bed, last night really took its toll on me. I felt deprived of energy and just wanted to take a day to recuperate and rest. But unfortunately, I did have a big test today in the next two hours and couldn't afford to miss it. Luckily, I didn't have to study for it, the material was too easy for my sharp mind. I groaned awake, rubbing my face into my pillow. It was so comfortable; my head just didn't want to leave the sacred cradle, ever since I have come to know on what the feeling of something soft beneath my body was instead of cold concrete floor, it was very hard to leave it.
Regretting it, I pushed myself up with my wobbling arms to sit up in bed in front of my wall mirror. Damn did I look like shit. Anyone who would take one look at me and think I just came out from a fight to the death; I can't even remember the last time I didn't get a new injury to add to the list when each day would past. Sometimes there were days that were worse than the last. I don't even know how I managed to make this far; I was surprised I had not gone insane by now. That or losing a limb, the ability to walk, or lose my sense of compassion.
Oh well, time to face another day
I got dressed and tried to cover up my cuts on my face the best that I could with my hair, hiding them behind my loose bangs from my pigtails. I really wished I could wear something more to hide all these injuries, maybe the school shop might sell leggings so I would be able to hide my bandaged knees. At least then I wouldn't look like shit, I would actually look presentable.
I grabbed my satchel slinging it over my shoulder before taking my math book in my arm and take a deep breath looking at my reflection in the mirror. Just breathe, just stay calm, just keep moving.
As I made my way down the flights of stairs I did feel a little discomfort in my knees, but Legoshi did warn me about that, I guess I would just have to suck it up for the time being till they were fully healed. A warm blush came to my cheeks as he came to my mind, I still was in awe of how he actually was out in that storm last night and had found me, and that he took me back to his own room to keep me from dying from hypothermia. Let alone treat my injuries that I sustained. The fact that he trusted me enough to let me handle one of his most precious treasures, his pet beetle and how he walked me back to my dorm, it almost felt unreal. Why was he being so nice to me? Does he understand? Was he actually giving me a chance?
My mind was jumbled with thoughts as I walked by the counselors' offices just as Ms. Kota was walking out from her office and into the hallway. "Oh, hello Aayame, heading down for breakfast?"
"Yes Ms. Kota, just wanted to grab a quick bite before history"
The panda gasped softly as she looked down, taking notices of my injured knees. "My dear what happened? Did you fall?"
"Oh yeah, that, well I guess you can say that...someone, well actually a few people, were bullying I guess a friend and I got the brunt of it", I bend down and rub my sore knee, my fingers gingerly trace the outline of the gauze
"Who did this to you? Bullying is not acceptable let alone tolerated here on school grounds"
"But don't you think that happens every day though? With the taunts, the threats, the isolation with every student here. With herbivores and carnivores going at each other all the time. I hate to say it, but it's not hard to miss"
The panda sighed softly. She was right, the huge wedge between herbivores and carnivores was growing wider ever since the school has had the incident, with students pointing fingers at carnivores and carnivores and herbivores making threats towards each other. Everyone seems on edge, but who wouldn't be? After all a slaying here at one of the top schools in the country, it was going to leave a bad reputation for any future students to attend here. It's hard to keep the peace as much as the panda wants it to be that way for all students, regardless of species, but until the matter would be resolved there was going to be tension and fear in the atmosphere.
"At least tell me the names of the students who did this to you, we will be looking into this matter, I won't stand for another act of bullying or violence while I am here"
She was persistent, there was no way I was going to get out of this one, not when a bear's claws were out. "I don't know their names, all I know that it was a harlequin rabbit, a black cat and a tanuki they were picking on me and Haru, they have been doing this for quite a while now."
"I am afraid I am familiar with those girls, don't worry Aayame, we will be having a talk with them, you leave it to administration"
I wanted to tell her not to waste her time and breath on the matter, but I feel like it was the right thing for the grownups to handle right now, students do need to be put in check and not cross boundaries. Order and peace needed to be restored. "Okay Ms. Kota, well I need to get going, got a big test this morning"
"Alright my dear, well good luck to you, just keep your head up and your eyes forward"
"That's all I can do"
She gives my shoulder a gentle pat and continues on down the hallway. Arriving at the cafeteria, I walked down the stairs and could smell the delicious scents of meals fill my nostrils. The aroma was very strong, it made my stomach grumble loudly, eager to obtain nourishment. The one thing great about the school is that the meals were very nutritious and sparked my curiosity to try as many kinds of meals as possible. The only thing I remembered eating during my captivity was stale bread and soup, I don't even know how my body survived that long on such small proportions, sometimes I could feel my bones trying to protrude out of my skin from being so malnourished. The first real meal I ever ate here, I didn't leave one crumb nor drop of sauce behind. Feeling full was one of the best feelings in the world.
Walking up to the board that displayed the menu, standing right behind a small group of male canines. A blonde labrador retriever, a hyena, a coyote, a sheepdog, and a fennec fox. But as I moved in closer, someone moved out in front of me unexpectedly causing me to accidentally bump into the back of their arm. Soft fur hit my face as I stumbled backwards to the floor. "Oh so sorry, I must be still waking up..."
"H-Hey are you okay? I-I'm so sorry I didn't see you there"
My eyes fluttered open and gasped softly. It was him again, kneeling down in front of me with a look of concern. Okay keep calm, don't make yourself look weird to him. Getting a better and closer look at the wolf, I could see how small his grey eyes were, it was a beautiful color. I don't think I ever seen grey eyes before, they matched just like his fur. I could feel the familiar growing warmth rise up in my cheeks again. Either this must be a coincidence of where we are always meeting at the most awkward of moments or something else. "Oh, it's you, so sorry I am still exhausted after last night"
"Uh yeah, s-same here, are you okay? Are you hurt?"
"Oh, I am fine thank you, not the first time I have fallen" I giggle a little in response
"H-Here let me help you" He gently took a hold of my hand bringing me up to my feet as I dusted off my uniform "I-I'm so sorry, I didn't see you there"
"No harm done big guy, it's all good, you can't help you are so tall"
"Oh y-yeah, I-I think I had another growth spurt last night"
I couldn't help but giggle. "I wouldn't be surprised if you had, you do look a little taller than last night. You here for breakfast too?"
"U-Uh y-yeah, here with my roommates, let's see what's on the menu, s-speaking of that, I'm curious, what do you eat?"
"Oh. Uh...glad you asked, w-well with being an omnivore, I can eat really any of the meals, we don't need one kind in particular to survive"
"T-That's really interesting, um w-what are you going to have today?"
"Mmmmm I am not sure, let's look and see what they have"
As we walked closer, I got a much better look of the menu reading the breakfast schedule for today and although both sounded really appetizing, I figured out on what I was going to eat. "Mmmmmm the carnivore breakfast looks really good; I think I will give that a try but also get a side of the soy doughnuts from the herbivore breakfast too"
Without her noticing, Legoshi was becoming lost as his grey eyes were locked on to her. He could feel his heart starting to beat a little faster the longer he stared at her. Her species was surely a unique one, how she didn't have to survive on just herbivore or carnivore meals, if he only could be like that, that would make things in his life so much easier.
After I had gotten my meal on my tray, I was able to find a single table that was nearby. Legoshi sat with the other male canines in the group eating his own meal quietly. But as I ate on quietly, I couldn't help but feel someone was staring at me. Oh no, not the staring again, it was too early for this. Glancing up slowly, my eyes slowly looked around to see whose gaze could possibly be lingering on me this time, but surprisingly no one was. Was this a joke? Not a day went by since coming to Cherryton I wouldn't have at least one pair of eyes staring at me intently. But students were eating and talking on, acting like it was any other normal day. Maybe now I was becoming old news of a newly discovered species, and I was now going to be able to live normally. But then again, maybe that might still just be a dream.
But as my head turned slightly to the left, I caught Legoshi staring at me from a distance. Whipping my head quickly forward, I could feel my cheeks turning warm once again. Oh my god, wait he was looking at me?! What should I do? Should I stare back? No! That would be weird, what are you thinking? But it was just so hard not to. After everything he has done for me. I was struggling to resist the urge. I just wanted to look at him.
But as I dwelled on if I should make eye contact with Legoshi or not, an argument between a fox and hyena began to ensue, drawing my attention away from my dilemma.
"You bastard, what's the deal?! You realize that you've been stepping on my way this tail this whole time right?!
"I said I was sorry, what more do you want?!"
Even before a new better day could begin, carnivores were already going at each other's throats, I guess even species apart of the same group can even lose their temper with each other too.
"But you laughed when you said it, like the whole thing was funny, you damn fox!
"Look at all those lines on your face, a little too much stress?"
Speciesism what good does it do? It was bad enough to see herbivores and carnivores were at odds due to the murder of Tem being unsolved, but to see the carnivore species turning against each other was just as bad. It reminded me of the fight in drama club from the first day I arrived, but I knew a speech like before wouldn't stop a physical fight and with many other students standing around, I couldn't risk making another scene like that again.
Suddenly the hyena bites at the fox on his forearm and that's when the screams erupted. As they struggled on the ground, barely being able to see it, I could see a drop of blood come out from the mouth of the fox and had landed on the floor. Although it was quiet, the sound exploded into my eardrums. Many of the familiar screams from that dreaded moment I lost control sounded in my ears, the sound of wet footprints stepping into a large pool of warm blood, the dragging chains that loosely followed beside me. The sound of bullets blasting through the air before the sound of dismembered heads and body parts being flung across the corridor. My blood was running fast and cold, reminding me once more of the monster that I was forever branded of becoming.
"Enough!"
"Eh?" At the sound of Legoshi's voice, I snapped out of my thoughts, wow so he did have a strong voice after all! He looked just as surprised by his outburst as everyone else in the cafeteria. Not an eye blinked nor a limb had moved. The fox began to approach him looking aggravated.
"Who are you yelling at? Did you think you'd beat me just because you are bigger?"
I knew no doubt with a smaller fox fighting up against a wolf, there would be a clear winner. But I knew from my interaction with Legoshi, he wasn't one to start a fight.
"No way!" He held up his hands up in surrender "You got it all wrong"
Alright think. How can I lose on purpose and make it look real?
"Oh, I've got it all wrong, huh? Give me your neck, I'll bite into it nice and gently"
Did that fox just threaten him?
I could then feel my body began to tingle all over; my hands slowly turned to fists as it snapped the fork in half, then a familiar voice whispered in my ear.
Clearly a foolish canine he is...
Hey! You better not be talking about him! He was trying to stop a fight! Someone could have gotten seriously hurt!
Yet he won't stand his ground, like a terrified pup!
Why do you do this to me?! Tempting me to fight when I clearly don't want to! And you are now going criticizing someone that I care about?! Why can't you just-
Just stating the facts...he may not want to fight, but you can stop this, after all you care about him, don't you?
W-Well yes, yes, I do. I do care about him, after all he saved my life...
Then what are you going to do? You can easily take out that sly fox yourself and save your precious wolf! Or do you wish to stand down and hold back like a coward?
My fists clenched tighter as I stood abruptly up from my chair and began to walk slowly over to the two carnivores.
So, what's the answer going to be Aayame?
The answer is...I am shutting you out for once and doing things my way this time!
I wouldn't care if I had gotten in trouble, and this is coming from someone who avoids any kind of confrontation, but for him it was worth it. He gave me a reason to fight back.
Within a second, I had gotten in between the wolf and fox, blocking a lightning-fast punch coming from the fox with my shoulder, my arm holding it out defensively. Many gasps filled the room, seeing the act of heroism, the mutant's stance was strong. Her face filled with bravery.
"Not while I stand about you won't, you really don't want to put yourself in that kind of position, do you?!"
"Who the hell do you think you are?!"
Legoshi stood in awe of how such a small species, let alone a female had defended him from an attack from another carnivore. Anyone would think twice of coming in between two carnivores during a fight, but she didn't hesitate, not for one second to defend him. Like how he had defended Louis the other day from Kai, but instead the roles were switched. Wow...who was she?
Without making a sound, my pupils immediately widen largely almost covering my blue eyes as it reflected off the fox's eyes filled with rage. Quickly the rage was disappearing from the fox, soon to be replaced with fear as he flinched back jerking his fist away from my arm laughing nervously. I kept my eyes fixated on him my arms crossing over my chest, still standing strong with defense to keep Legoshi protected. I knew he was more than capable of taking on such a smaller carnivore, and you would think it would be the other way around. But seeing and knowing how much he has faced and suffered already, about time someone should come to his aid. "Uh I-I'll let it go this time, you are lucky, your little girlfriend here just gave you a free pass!"
If hearts could explode, both the wolf's and girl's heart would have from embarrassment from the statement made by the fox. Did he really just say that?! Oh dear god! And right beside my crush no less too?! Please someone shoot me dead to save me from this humiliation!
"Oh come on, being a carnivore isn't so easy either"
The familiar girlish screams and moans filled my ears, making me groan internally. Not this. Of all people, why did the one person who had violated me have to show up here? One would think approaching the person whom you assaulted and have them retaliate against you, you would still be on the nervous side, but of course he acted so confident like nothing had happened. But yet what I saw what was hidden behind the boldness, it was insecurity and humiliation.
"They're not always lucky enough to have both personality and fighting strength"
He stops next to me; I gulped a bit nervously. I don't know why I should be scared; It's not like this was the first time I was violated. I guess with him being another male who has hurt me, it added to the list of faces that I could never forget. I can't even remember how many males that were in my life that caused some kind of physical, mental or emotional damage. I could feel Legoshi inch a bit closer till I could feel him right behind my back, close to touching it.
Oh no! I forgot Legoshi knows what happened to me, he knows about Louis doing this to me! Great! I face my violator and now I have to possibly stop a fight from happening between a wolf and a deer all because of what happened to me. Why was I always getting stuck in the middle of everything? This could get nasty really quick!
"Well well, if it isn't Louis himself, the superstar rich kid"
"Exposing your fangs in public is considered bad manners"
Like you assaulting me wasn't? What a hypocrite! How dare you make these statements when you know you are no better?!
"Ha, you are in a bit of tough spot yourself. If you really want the title of the next Beastar, you need to work on gaining popularity"
"Have you ever thought about the actual reason why we need the Beastar in our world? Instead of me, just worry about yourself"
The entire cafeteria turns on the fox and hyena, yelling out in defense of Louis. This deer really did have a hold of the school, like an iron grip, almost every species probably looked up to him like a leader, but if they found out the truth of the assault, would that change their views? After all isn't a leader supposed to defend the ones they care about?
"By the way it's bad manners to assault a female student, you are lucky she didn't decide to retaliate against you, isn't that right?"
He turns to me, the nerve of him! If looks could kill, he would be splattered all over this cafeteria. I should have let my vectors do their deed! No! No don't think that! You are better, you are trying to be better! You can't let your instincts try to change your views Aayame, don't let this deer intimidate you! You are wanting to change the world for everyone, you made a promise!
"Hardly, it's not the first time I have been confronted by a so-called powerful male, remember our last encounter...Louis?"
My eyes slowly narrowed at the deer and even though he hid it well to the rest of staring eyes, the pupils in his golden eyes widen slightly. Sensing a scared fawn, he knows he is in the crossfires of a potential threat. As much as I want to expose who he really was, no one would take my word for it. After all who would believe who, a horned freak or a popular student? The odds were against me either way. "It's over, just go on about your business"
Students began to disperse going back to their meals and conversations. I sighed internally with relief, but the confrontation wasn't over yet as Louis walked over, stopping right in front of me with his hands behind his back.
"As for last night, can you and I call it even now?"
"Go to hell..."
Our eyes were caught in dead stares as he kept his gaze on me with much intensity and strength. After a few moments he gives up before walking away with a grunt. But the presence of something else made me snap out of my trance, I looked over my shoulder to see Legoshi had his sights dead set upon the deer walking towards the exit of the cafeteria. With a clenched tight fist, his ears slowly pinning back. A quiet low growl rumbled through his chest, his sharp teeth barely peeking out from under his lip.
I knew what he was about to do and for what reason, but before he could take a step forward, I grabbed his forearm stopping him dead in his tracks. "It's not worth it, just let it go..."
A low growl rumbled from his chest, the rage slowly erasing from his face, before looking down giving me a gentle look. Even with me just holding his arm, I could feel the aggression he had within him that was about to be released on to Louis and this wolf had much of it be shown for. The fact that he was even going to go after the deer, the one who had violated me, disregarding me as a species and as a woman, why was he protecting me? Was it just because I was so different? So weak? Even if I was those things, I was just surprised that anyone would have the mind or thought to help me, let alone go after the person who had hurt me. Ever since I met this wolf, he was there when even when I thought I didn't need it, like he was becoming my own protector. Was this a sign of something?
"Thank you, but I can handle him...I see right through him"
He gave me an apologetic look, then looked down at my hand gripping him, realizing I was still holding on to him I released him immediately, feeling a blush rise from my cheeks, hiding it behind my hand. "S-Sorry, w-well I need to get going...I'll see you at club later!"
I turned my heels before I could let him say anything else. Great! I made another scene, I met the deer who assaulted me again and just left my crush in an awkward moment, what more could possibly go wrong? Like how Louis could have a grip over me now, he would be able to easily create a rumor that a dangerous mutant had attacked the star of the school for no reason, and I would have no way of defending myself. No one would come to my aid. He could ruin my life with one word. If I was to make it through the remaining years of school and not be at risk of being imprisoned, I would have to lay low from him for a while.
I was a nervous wreck the rest of the day, my mind was spinning out of control. I had to do something in order to relax, I can't risk having another breakdown again. I had to save myself in health wise. I looked back on my mission I had the other day of finding a music room to find an instrument to play some of my songs, thinking that making one come to life could ease my stress. This time I had asked one of the teachers that was in the same building I was in before and was able to locate a music room where students can borrow instruments for the year for classes or for personal use. Looking through the whole room, I had found what I was looking for and went to one place where I felt like I could escape the cruel world that surrounded me. Opening the door, I could already feel the atmosphere take a hold of me bringing me towards relief as the anxiety of today began to melt away in my newly found paradise. "Haru!"
The little white rabbit turned around with surprise, but a happy smile comes to her face as she rushes over. "Aayame! I am so glad you came back!"
Her arms wrapped around my waist immediately. This surprised me as I flinched in response, I wasn't used to having much affection be given to me. I know these last few days wasn't an exception with me coming out aggressively, but it was meant out of self-defense, I was really surprised this time that I didn't have to resort to my vectors in order to stop a confrontation. That was the first time that I actually had self-control and didn't let my anger get the better of me, maybe I did have strength inside of me. If only I had done that with Louis, at least then I wouldn't feel like a sharp blade was dangling over my head that could be dropped on me at any given second.
I hugged Haru back carefully, leaning slightly over her smaller frame. It felt so strange feeling her little arms around me, they may be small, but they meant so much. Filled with comfort and warmth. Maybe she was a friend, after all do friends hug each other?
"I was so worried about you; I couldn't stop thinking about you after last night, are you okay?"
"I am fine, a little sore, but I survived" Slowly releasing my grip around her, she noticed the instrument in my hand.
"What's with the flute?"
"Oh well I thought this would be a great place for me to practice my music, being around something so alive and beautiful, I think the garden could provide a little inspiration for me. If you don't mind me practicing here that is"
"Well, if you think if my garden gives any little bit of inspiration for you, please, play as much you desire...I'm going to tend to my roses, make yourself at home"
Haru continued on to pull at the weeds in the flower bed as I made myself comfortable inside the stone archway entrance of the club sitting with my legs crossed. Holding the flute carefully in my hands, my eyes looked out towards the garden, it reminded me in some ways of what my previous home looked like. It was beautiful, I remembered seeing so many tall trees, the warm sun that shined down on my face every morning when I would wake up through my bedroom window. The many happy days where I would go running through the forest, exploring being as curious and happy as a little girl could be. I would see and discover something new every day, from finding a mother bird sitting on her woven nest of eggs to finding a beautiful waterfall, that I would fearlessly jump off from to land in a crystal-clear pool below feeling overjoyed doing something so brave. I really had it all, until that one moment where I had lost everything...
I shook my head rapidly, removing those glooming thoughts from my mind. No, not here, I was in a safe place now, don't let the demons enter here, you need this right now. You have to recover. You have to shut them out, this was the one place where I wouldn't be judged or discriminated in. Here I was free.
I looked down at the mouthpiece of my flute and letting my eyes close slowly, I let my lips cover the mouthpiece and that's when my fingers began to play a song, a song about something is lacking in this world as much as it did in my first world...love. As I played on, the beautiful melody started to come to life, it sounded better than what I thought it could sound like. Each note danced perfectly along with the gentle breeze that blew against my face. For having no such experience with a treasured piece of musical expression, I felt like even with it being my first time playing it, it's like this song was with me all this time, finally free to be expressed to the open world.
As Haru was tending to her precious roses, the sound of the girl's flute playing caught her attention, making her pause in pulling another weed. Looking over, the girl was lost in her own world, but she looked content, the song she played was probably the most beautiful song she had ever heard. Music must play a very big part of her life, just like gardening had played in hers. It was slow, gentle, and filled with emotion.
Wow she is amazing! Was she studying to be a musician? If she was, she was a natural, like she was born to play and create music.
As I continued to play, I wish that I could just make music all day long, it would be much better than listening to all the fighting and hatred that was becoming more normalized in daily life. Playing music did something for me, it made me forget in the moment of the pain that I have endured, what I have faced, and I could just escape reality till I could calm down and recuperate. Music was becoming my coping mechanism. If I had only had that during my captivity, would I be different? Stronger perhaps?
"Wow Aayame...that was, beautiful, did you write that song yourself?"
My thoughts were interrupted when I looked to see Haru come walking up, clapping calmly. "Well, no, I guess being around here in the garden just made it come to life. Um Haru? I was wondering, do you think I could practice my music here for now on?"
"Why here? If you don't mind me asking"
"W-Well to me, here, this place...it reminds me of my old home"
I sniffle a little feeling a sadness come over my heart. Haru being concerned moved closer kneeling right before me. "Seeing all this, it just brings back some memories of my childhood that I remember, some aren't very clear, I'm sad to say. But being here it just reminds me of what I had before, until I lost it all..."
A few tears escaped down my eyes as Haru gently took her small hand drying my right eye carefully. "H-Hey don't cry Aayame, it's okay, I was just curious, no one has ever been this interested let alone found any inspiration in my garden in all my years of being the only member of the club. It just makes me happy to know that it reminded you of something that you loved, still love"
"I still do, I always will, there's no doubt about that, nature will always be a part of me"
"How about this? I will let you practice your songs here if you become a member here or at least help me tend to my plants and flowers once in a while"
Wow! She was allowing me to be a member? To be a part of something that I had lost all those years ago? How could I resist? With a smile, I nodded eagerly. "You got yourself a deal!"
"Great! Let me grab you some gloves! We can work on planting some new plants in some pots!"
As the sun began to rise higher into the sky, I was starting to feel warm and not wanting to get my uniform dirty before drama club, I rolled up my sleeves till they reached up to my elbows and tied my hair up into a high ponytail with my favorite pink ribbon.
"Aayame are you okay? What happened to your arm? Was that from yesterday?"
I noticed Haru had returned with two pots a trowel in her hand, her face grew with concern as she eyed the bandages on my left arm, it still was sore, but not as painful as it was the day I had gotten them. "Oh this one, no not from yesterday, you know honestly I don't even know how I got this. It must have been my own fault; I am always injuring myself. But it's okay, I am fine, thank you for the concern though"
"Looks like you did yourself pretty hard to be having that many bandages"
"I must have, but I have survived way worse, I'll heal, I am a tough woman"
"Wish I could be as tough as you" She frowned as she sets down the empty pots
Sighing softly, I walked over and placed my hand on her shoulder as she was putting on some gardening gloves. "You are stronger and tougher than you think of yourself Haru, you are small yes, but inside of you, there is something more. A fire that ignites inside of you when it needs to be. Like from yesterday, that was true bravery you had standing up to those girls. I would see that you were taller than them seeing how you stood up for yourself like that. I think that if you showed more of how strong, brave and independent of a woman that you are, you would really amaze those who are around you"
"D-Do you really think that of me?" Her facial expression was shocked, her pitch-black eyes were sparkling with awe
"I...I do, you are not what many view you as, you are much more than that and you have to believe in yourself that you are"
Haru couldn't believe her ears, that this girl didn't view her as a weak and fragile dwarf rabbit, she was feeling validated for being who she really is deep down inside. And it wasn't coming from the opposite sex no less. As long as she could remember in during her childhood and teenage years, people would always look down upon her, pitied her for being so small, not being able to look after herself from the dangerous world that they reside in. She didn't show her any pity or felt the need to sympathize with her, she saw her only as herself, as Haru. And that's all Haru has ever wanted from anyone...
"C-C'mon I want to show you the plants we are going to put in the pots"
As Haru walked forward tugging the young girl along by her hand, she could hardly contain the happiness that was exploding on her face. She knows now that the gardening club wasn't going to be so lonesome anymore, she has finally found herself a good friend.
"Legoshi!"
"Huh?! Uh yeah?"
The wolf is snapped out of his thought by the head of the stage crew, Dom the peacock. In his hands was that of the costume that Tem was supposed to wear for the performance. He still couldn't believe that his friend was gone, it still left his heart in a heavy state.
"I was asking if you'd pick up the flowers from the gardening club. See?" Dom held up a drawing to his face "I want to decorate the auditorium indoor with roses. You know to go with the final scene. So would you mind helping me out with that?"
"Gardening club?"
Wait that girl! She mentioned that she had gotten that carnation from there, maybe she might there! He was worried about after she left in a hurry after the incident in the cafeteria.
He still had the carnation that she had left behind in his dorm, tucked away hiding behind the tie around his neck. "Isn't that the one run by herbivores? Is it okay for me to go over there?"
"That's exactly why you should go! You're a second year, you need to work on your communication skills" Kibi, an anteater, piped into the conversation
"On one condition..."
The anteater and the wolf were now finding themselves at the club's door. It was strange that this club was located on the rooftop, Legoshi didn't even know this school even had a rooftop, it was even on the school map that was given to him when he started his first year here at Cherryton. "Did you really need me to come with you?"
I know she wouldn't be scared of me, but if there are other herbivores...
"They'd be scared if a wolf suddenly shows up at their door demanding flowers"
His ears hung low, he was used to it, but no matter how much he tells himself that, the fear and hatred he receives from others for being a large carnivore still hurts him deep down. He just didn't like showing it, he didn't want anyone to know how much it did hurt.
Hmmm?
Suddenly he caught a whiff of a scent. Sweet honey and cherry blossoms fills his nostrils.
She is here!
Kibi opened the door and with that Legoshi is momentarily blinded by the bright light and the array of vibrant colors. That's when he saw...her. Her and a small white rabbit, standing close to each other across from him. She stood out even more than the glowing colorful flowers of the garden. She stood behind the confident rabbit, surprised to see guests arriving here.
She's such a unique female...so brave, but yet so timid
He could feel his heartbeat starting to pound uncomfortably in his chest.
The devil's garden
"Can we help you?", the rabbit asks
Shoot. I have to get out of here, uhum...but why? A stomachache? Bathroom? No uhm...I suddenly remembered an important errand I have to do, yes, that should work.
"I uh-" But before he could finish his sentence, the scared, frantic anteater interrupted him
"I forgot about an errand!"
"Huh? Looking alarmed as he glanced at the anteater
"Shoot! I have to go back right now!"
What?!
"Hey-"
"I'll buy the ant shakes next time", Kibi whispered "You got this, thanks a million!"
"Excuse me? Aren't you guys here to pick up flowers for the welcome ceremony? Or?" Haru chimes in to the conversation, staring at the two males in confusion
"Oh...it's you again", The girl shyly responds, holding her arm bashfully
Dear god, I am going to make a fool out of myself in front of her. I can't let her see me like this! "Uh-uh yeah! It's just..."
"This wolf will take care of it", Kibi made a mad dash out of the door, leaving the wolf alone with the two female students
"Wait what?! Hey!"
Now I'm alone with them!
My mind grew confused, what was all that about? The anteater looked frightened for some unknown reason, what could be so scary about coming to a beautiful garden? That's when Haru let out an exasperated sigh. "Those rumors always spread so quickly, he probably got scared of me"
Huh? Of Haru? Why would anyone be scared of Haru? That didn't make any sense to me
Legoshi's posture faltered more as the guilt returned to his mind, his stomach churning painfully.
"Aren't you as well?"
I was about to devour her; I don't have the right to be scared let alone talk to her or even be in the presence of her or her friend
I looked away nervously, holding my forearm tightly with my hand. Oh man, I am probably the last person he wants to see right now especially after this morning. Well, it looks like I am going not to get out of this so easily...
Eventually Haru was able to get the information from the wolf, about finding out that he needed roses to decorate the auditorium for the performance being played as I held a drawing that was given by Legoshi, kneeling on my knees for Haru to see properly.
"Well let's see...you want roses. Clearly, we've got plenty so look around!" She looked down at the drawing "If you need any help, I'm sure my friend here can help you out!"
I gulped nervously. Oh no, alone with him? I couldn't. Dear god, after this morning, I would think he would want to avoid me at all costs. The way I held on to him, he felt so strong, firm, the fur on his arm was just as soft as his hand. I just couldn't let go. It's like my limbs just stopped functioning, like I was paralyzed. But it was too late Haru had left us both to tend to other plants on the other side of the garden, spraying fertilizer on the leaves. We were now alone.
Oh man this was so awkward! Okay don't make eye contact with him! Just keep things somewhat normal and don't even bring up this morning! "So...uhm...was drama club early today?"
"Oh...uh...no, just getting somethings r-ready before everyone shows up for rehearsals. The performance is next week. We need the flowers to decorate the auditorium"
"W-Well this idea using roses to decorate, it's gonna l-look beautiful in person that is. S-Sorry I am probably the last person you want to see right now"
"What? N-No! N-Not at all. That was...a really brave thing that you did for me, no one has stuck up for me like that before"
Huh?
I looked up to him a bit stunned, I surely thought I would have made him uncomfortable with what I had done, but seeing his eyes that showed honesty and sincerity, it showed me he was telling the truth. I heavily sighed internally with relief. "W-Well, I wouldn't call it brave, call it...righteous, I wasn't going to allow someone to hurt you for standing up to what was right...the fighting had to be stopped before someone got hurt. I would have done it for anyone, even if they didn't want it"
The wolf was surprised at her honesty, this girl seemed like she had no problem for standing up for those who needed it. He looked back on the speech he heard her speak for Tem to everyone in the club, how she defended his honor, to not to be forgotten about in the whole argument of herbivores and carnivores placing blame and threats for his murder. And now today standing up for an outcast like himself right before another carnivore, this girl was something...special.
"I...uh, t-thank you for protecting me, y-you didn't have to do that...you know"
"W-Well you helped me when I-I needed it, so I wanted to help you, call it repaying a debt" A soft smile formed along my lips, before turning my attention back to the drawing
She's so small compared to me. She sounds so nice and understanding too. I don't think I've ever had a conversation with such a unique species before. I am curious to know what kind of species she is, I really like those little horns growing out of her head.
"H-Hold on, I've got a request" I craned my head back to look up at him
"A request?"
He tries to keep himself looking as composed as possible, trying to make it look like he wasn't staring at her all this time.
Oh no, I can't look at her!
"I'm sure Haru wouldn't like it if I just gave away these beautiful flowers for free, but I think I know what we can do, could you help me carry those to the back?"
Legoshi glanced at the potted plants that she had pointed to, only to feel his tail being snapped back behind his suspenders. He jerked unexpectedly and nearly yelped out in surprise, before looking back at the girl behind him.
She...She actually touched me, there.
"S-Sorry but your tail is quite big, I just didn't want it to knock over any plants, it probably would have upset Haru if any of them got broken, oh gosh I-I s-should have asked before touching you like that, s-sorry sometimes I just don't realize w-what I am doing till after its been done"
"No, it's...it's alright"
His cheeks burned hot, she has touched him before yes, but near something that sensitive to him, it sent a shiver down his spine. It felt kind of...nice.
His tail, so soft to the touch, if I only could have had touched it again, held it longer. Oh god Aayame, don't be creepy! Sure, you have a crush on him, but don't be thinking dirty like that! Be respectful like you always are! But still, I can't believe I actually touched him...back there.
I shake my head from the thought and pick up the first plant to carry it to a spot with more sunlight to provide it with more nutrition for healthy growth. He picked up one behind me easily being able to lift up the heavier pot with little effort. Looking at him from a distance, he was so alluring, handsome in a way, but yet he holds a dark and mysterious look to him. But even with that, he is probably one of the nicest students I have met here.
"So, uhm, what year are you in?"
"Second"
"Oh wow, you and I are in the same year"
He is so quiet, but I didn't mind, I mean looking at myself I wasn't that much of a talker anyways. I guess what you would call me was an introvert. But even with us not talking to each other, the atmosphere was becoming more comfortable and less nerve wracking after clearing the air from earlier. As we finished our task placing the plants down by the other side of the fencing, I noticed him looking around curiously. "Where's everyone else?"
"From what I know from Haru, the last member graduated four years ago, so she took it over, and she actually made me a member here this afternoon. So, I am still getting to know the club myself"
He sets down the potted plant carefully before lifting his gaze towards me. "It must be hard for just one person, but at least she now has you for help"
I blushed bashfully and rubbed the side of my neck. "T-Thank you, well I am sure it wasn't easy for her, but from the looks of it, she has taken really good care of all these plants, I give her credit for that. But I am glad to be a part of something that I love again. I know it must have been hard for Haru having to handle with so much all on her own, I know that feeling all too well"
A gentle breeze came across the little plants in front of me, as they swayed softly back and forth. It's amazing how something so little could grow into something beautiful and have so much meaning to it. "But these plants need her and me now too, if they are going to make it. I can tell she really loves these beautiful pieces of nature, just by looking at her smile. My love for greenery is strong too, it's something that has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. It's nice to know someone shares that same love and appreciation like I do. It makes me feel not so different in that aspect."
I glanced down at him, his dark eyes filled with curiosity and wonder. My cheeks were becoming warmer, it was so hard trying not to be smiling so big. I had to bite the inside of my mouth to keep myself composed.
"But I think she needs them too, we both do, we are not really well liked by a lot of species, and I kind of expected it for me. With me being so different in the world. But I always try to see the best in people no matter what species, even if I don't get the same reciprocated back to me. So, I think that's how Haru and her plants help each other to survive. With me being here for such a short time, I noticed that there is a lot of tension between herbivores and carnivores. I'm guessing it's probably been that way for a very long time probably since the very beginning. But I hate seeing so much fighting, it's so destructive and some don't realize what damage it can really cause. But I want to make a change while I am here, so everyone can feel happy, cared about and safe. Make the world a better place for others like Haru, and you too. But I know if get too stubborn I might mess things up, I may even risk my life"
The words triggered Legoshi's memories of how he pounced on the girl standing in front of him and how he let his own instincts be the reason of how she sustained his claw marks that would forever mark her of his rage deep inside of him. Knowing that she was out there due to the fact that she was dealing with discrimination that he has been swallowing for years with no urge to fight back, it only made the guilt grow bigger and bigger inside of him. He stared at his claw hand as she sprayed the small plants with the fertilizer, before closing it into a fist.
"Uh..."
Don't ask her anything.
"Uhm..."
What are you doing? Stop!
"Your left arm..."
Hey!
"What happened?"
I guess he wasn't the only one who would notice, he actually cared too. I am surprised every day I wouldn't be stopped and asked about an injury or scar by a pair of eyes. I glanced down at my bandaged arm, aware of the big nasty scars hiding underneath. "Oh this? I don't remember really; I think I must have hurt myself in my sleep that or I maybe fell and didn't realize I was hurt. It's a bit sore but it's going to scar for sure. But I have had worse than this"
Like being shot in my heart and choking on my own blood before I could take my first step of freedom going back to my real home.
"What? Really?"
"Yeah, some are too explicit to describe in detail. But I guess I stand out more now, an unknown mutant omnivore with strange horns growing out of her head that has bandages right after a devouring. I doubt anyone would really notice or cared. But I appreciate your concern, and thank you again for helping me with my knees, they are starting to feel better now all because of you"
I give him a grateful smile and walked towards a row of carnations with my spray bottle tending to the fragile, delicate beauties, humming softly to myself.
The wolf was lost in his thoughts, thinking of how more guilty he was now feeling, he attacked a girl, saved her life, and she had thanked him for his kindness, all the while she wasn't aware that she was face to face with her potential killer.
This whole thing is kind of strange. It's not that I'm suddenly relieved or feeling any kind of pressure. I...I just...urgh...I just can't stop looking at her.
In the distance Haru waved us both over to her and we make it inside some kind of shed that was nearby and we walked inside to see her reading some kind of magazine on a stool. I took a seat on the small bed that was up against the wall while Legoshi stood in the doorway. However, unbeknownst to the girl, if she only was aware of what things had happened on the bed she was sitting on, she probably wouldn't be sitting there.
"Thank you for helping us, they weren't doing so well. Now that they are in a better sunny spot, I'll know they'll get better. I think we should pay you back, don't you agree?" Haru looks to me and I give her a nod and smile
"Definitely, he did do a good job, what did you have in mind Haru?"
Even though it was just a simple task for moving plants to for payment to get the roses that were needed for the drama club, I thought he did a good job anyways. And secretly I thought that this would be a good way for me to be able to spend more time with him. Haru turned her attention to the wolf.
"What do you like to eat?"
"Uhm..."
The wolf began to think, frantically thinking of a way to just to spend more time with the girl, without making her uncomfortable in any way. It was hard enough being a wolf but being an introvert on top of it, it was like dealing with a double bad hand, but what he didn't realize, she was changing him.
Hmmmmmm...no...no I don't need you to do that. I just want to keep talking to her.
"Uh...well"
But she'd freak out if a wolf told her that! W-wait a minute, she's gonna get scared. Hmmmmm...
"Uhm..."
If only she and I could...
A somber expression comes to settle on Haru's face, which left me confused of what that expression meant. "Oh, so it's that...I understand now"
Haru turns to me forcing a smile. "Could you go do me a favor and pack up the roses for him please?"
"Oh yes, of course, I'll have those ready quickly Haru"
I wasn't sure what was Haru thinking, but I didn't want to pry, I barely knew Haru for a couple days and I didn't want to make trouble on my first day of being in a new club. I already had one bad introduction into a club, I didn't need a second. Glancing up at Legoshi, it looked like he was fighting with himself for some reason, was he alright? I was starting to become concern, but I would have to ask him later. I left the shed, closing the door behind me and went to the rose beds and begin to prepare the flowers for transport.
Meanwhile in the shed, Haru had closed the blinds and began to undress, whilst Legoshi was still in his own world, unaware that the girl had left the wolf and rabbit alone together.
Even then I-I wouldn't know what to say.
"I'm usually not up for it after caring for my plants."
I told her I wanted to talk but I barely said a word!
"To be honest, I've never been with a carnivore before."
Urgh, I hate myself right now, like always!
"Is this your first time with a small animal?"
But it was too late, when he had finally snapped back into reality, the girl was gone and the wolf found himself in front of a half-naked rabbit walking up to him.
"Huh?!"
"Don't worry it's fine, you can be rough. I can handle it. I think it'll be fun"
What has just happened here?!