Fangs of the Exiles
Rated M
Rwby
Summary:
Life is not about what happens to you, but what you make of it... At least that's what everyone says. Two faunus will answer whose way is right, carrying the will of a titanic kingdom while the other, the spirit of one who shouldn't exist. Forgotten, their paths will cross, for better or worse.
A/N:
1. This chapter, while starting with the continuation of the previous one. However, I had another chapter that I couldn't fit in timeline-wise. So, I'm going to take things in a slightly different direction for this chapter. This would've been a side story, but I wanted to tap into other characters as well. I wanted Willow to have some attention, even if it was just for this one moment.
2. There will be a time-skip after the completion of this arc, similar to Team RWBY's (and Jaune's) journey through the ever-after world. How long will that time frame be? What will Blake's role be with Aganju and Pyrrha upon their return? What has happened between Sango, Elm, and Winter? We have a couple more chapters before we receive the answers to that haha.
3. Lastly, once we enter Vol. 10 territory, there will be a lot of liberties taken with the story and I'm planning some big ideas. One such idea is the interaction between Salem and Aganju which I've been drafting long before this point. In the meantime, I hope you enjoy this chapter and I'll be looking to get the next one out as soon as I can.
Chapter 43: Checkmate-2
Imagine...
Remnant as you never fathomed before. As the four kingdoms show their true colors through war and enslavement, a seemingly uncharted continent remains untouched by corruption. Those who were deemed evil have a second chance at life. Killers became teachers. Former assassins turned their blades only to defend themselves or others in need. Even the fabled monster of our realm embraced the role of beloved ruler and mother.
This land was... No, it is as close to perfect as one could hope for.
The beasts rarely stray inside the settlements, and the delicate balance of life and death was upheld.
So, why would you want to leave?
Why would someone desire the truth when it leads to more pain and suffering?
Haven't you both endured enough? Were the wounds you carry sufficient?
It appears that Ozpin was right after all. He said that your rebellious nature would spell ruin. Everywhere you go, chaos ensues. While bold, your attempts to be a hero are nothing more than the distress of a child playing make-believe. In truth, you could never be anything more than a harbinger of ruin, and the results speak for themselves.
Beacon. Haven. Atlas.
Whether or not you were directly responsible doesn't matter. You are a scourge, but I will be the one to eliminate your stain on history. I was a fool to think I could contain your curse, but I was sadly proven wrong! I will cleanse your sins and right the wrongs you are responsible for. So, continue on your fated journey and I will be waiting for you at the end of the road, Aganju.
[Seliana-Hunter's Camp]
"Are you sure about this?"
"What's the problem, Jaune?" Pyrrha sighed while tying her hair into a braided ponytail. "It's been nearly a week since we arrived and we have a mission to complete. You haven't forgotten about that, have you?"
Jaune Arc, the former innkeeper, was sitting with bewildered eyes as he watched his fiancé put on her armor. She was being recklessly persistent and it was making him anxious. Since their meeting with the ruler of the land, he had been trying to persuade Pyrrha to remain in bed until she fully recovered, and every day he had won the argument.
Unfortunately, his win streak had to come to an end.
"I'm aware of our assignment. I'm also mindful of the risks and dangers we may face, or have you forgotten about the beast that nearly made us its snack in that tundra?"
"You worry too much..."
"...And you don't worry enough!" Jaune shot to his feet, his blue eyes laser-focused. "We have no clue of what we're going up against. This continent is full of monsters, many of which I bet are tougher than the one we faced! Wouldn't waiting at least another day to heal your wounds be wise?"
"Jaune... I've trusted your judgment and spent the last few days cooped up in a bed per your suggestions, but I can't just do nothing all day again. If nothing else, at least let me stretch my legs and explore the kingdom!"
Pyrrha's plea did not fall on deaf ears.
Jaune was still scowling, but he had to admit that the woman was getting impatient with staying in bed. She was a warrior at heart, and even she needed to move around after the nice break. With a groan, Jaune's shoulders slumped and he plopped back onto the bed. His stern persona melted away, and she smiled softly. His overprotectiveness was as endearing as it was it was smothering.
"Sorry, Pyrrha..."
"There's no need for apologies. It's been a long week. We're in a land far beyond our expectations that's filled with monsters, so your unease has merit."
Pyrrha carefully took off her armored garments, leaving her in her warm fur-lined tunic and pants. She sat next to Jaune and leaned her head on his shoulder. She knew that there was more to the story than what met the eye. Jaune had also come to the Kingdom of Vale as a refugee, just like her, and after a year of settling in, they were now engaged and only one mission away from becoming one.
But that was part of the problem.
"You have nothing to worry about, Jaune..." she whispered, her lips brushing his neck as she leaned in to embrace him. "If you want, we could explore and check up on the others."
"That sounds good. I've kind of..."
Pulling away, Pyrrha eyes the blond suspiciously. Her skepticism was given value when Jaune crawled into the bed, a sheepish grin stretching his lips.
Now it all makes sense... she deadpanned inwardly. "Were you just trying to stay in and be lazy?"
"Yes and no."
"Jaune?"
"Sorry, Pyrrha..." he let out a nervous chuckle. "...between the ship and the cold, these beds are so soft and luxurious compared to back home."
The former princess shook her head in faux annoyance.
"Honestly, Jaune. If I knew you were just scheming to squeeze out an extra day of idleness, I wouldn't have let you persuade me to stay. Yes, this place is wonderful, but we were given a task to complete. I know the ship was destroyed, but that should increase our resolve to gather resources and build a boat to leave and report our findings! Well..."
Realization struck Pyrrha as she paced back and forth, lost in her thoughts. Velvet was still in recovery at the castle! Yatsuhashi had given word of her improvement, but she was still troubled. The idea of seeing the rabbit faunus left a bittersweet taste in her mouth.
"...Perhaps, I'll check on things with our allies before making any rash decisions. That would be the appropriate move, right, Jaune? Jaune?"
As Pyrrha turned around, she found out that Jaune was silent because he had fallen asleep under the thick blanket. Although she was initially annoyed, she couldn't blame him for succumbing to the comforts of this place. Compared to the four kingdoms, Seliana lacked many things, but its charm and efficiency were not lost on her.
Instead of scolding him, she accepted her offer, but as she leaned closer to his sleeping face, something held her back. For some reason, she found herself unable to kiss him. When she tried to plant a kiss on the top of his head, she was met with the same outcome. The realization of this left her feeling uneasy, and her heart ached. So, she settled on caressing his cheek before quietly walking away.
With no sign of her allies, Pyrrha pondered if they were in the walled city.
After checking in with the guards, she was permitted to enter. The thoughts in her head swam around, particularly of the recent mishap with her unconscious lover. Why couldn't she leave him with the simplest of romantic gestures?
Are you truly blind to the truth?
As she entered the bustling shopping district, a wave of conflicting emotions washed over Pyrrha. Amidst the sea of people, her eyes caught sight of Yatsuhashi sitting next to Velvet, her estranged friend. Despite the bandages on her left leg, the bunny faunus appeared to be in better spirits now that the worst was behind her. But as their eyes met for a fleeting moment, Pyrrha could feel the weight of a painful truth settling in her heart. Meanwhile, Velvet and the gentle giant seemed to be sharing a lighthearted moment, completely unaware of the storm that was brewing within Pyrrha.
So, Pyrrha would move on.
Her walk brought her to the shopping section where children ran and played around the stalls. To her surprise, she thought she found Fox Alistair with a dual-colored-haired girl. Whether it was him or not, she thought it best to avoid any conversations.
It's difficult to feel that type of affection with someone you don't love, right?
I do love A... I mean, Jaune!
Is that why you just fumbled with his name?
That's NOT true! He's... I heard he was executed.
Is that why you're secretly fawning over that handsome faunus prince?
If her mind had taken form, Pyrrha was certain that it would've stood with vain criticism pointed at her. The concept of a dark visage of herself made her shiver and swiftly banish the thought. Her worst fears and feelings of shame were the last thing she wanted to witness right now. Sadly, while she succeeded in warding off the negative ideas, one belief remained.
"Aganju? That was his name, right?"
"You're pretty close."
Pyrrha nearly jumped out of her skin at the sound of a familiar voice. Spinning on her heels, she was met with the amused smirk of Agayu, son of Salem. Unlike their encounter in the throne room, there was a lack of malice in his gaze. Judging by his swishing tail, she would be forgiven for believing he was excited to see her.
"Prince! I... I apologize for my rudeness."
"Agayu."
"What?"
"My name? It's Agayu."
This time, the fox boy smiled brightly, exposing his canine. Pyrrha found this surprisingly charming as she rubbed her arm sheepishly. She couldn't understand why she was so nervous now. Earlier, she was the embodiment of conviction and perseverance, and yet she felt her chest swell in delight at the sight of the prince.
"It's an honor to meet you formally, Prince Agayu."
He observed her bow slightly with jest before mirroring her action.
"The feeling's mutual," he chuckled heartily. "Are you enjoying the city?"
"I must admit, while the cold is a challenge sometimes, this place is wonderful! I never would've imagined such a marvelous locale would be bustling with life and tranquility!"
"There's more to this continent than this place."
"Really?"
"Absolutely! Selianna is one of many interesting locations within the new world. The kingdom started as a settlement that still stands to this day! There are multiple locations with varying environmental wonders and hazards alike."
Pyrrha was fascinated by this, wondering to herself the full extent of this mystery land. Now, she was being invited to explore some of these places. Her mind tried to make sense of this sudden shift in nature; What if this is a trap? Her curiosity and instincts outvoted the logical warning. Whether she understood this or not, she felt comfortable around him.
Even during their previous encounter, Pyrrha felt as if he was a worthy match for her, a kindred spirit. Though he didn't appear to be the warrior type, he walked with the aura of one. He had witnessed the grazing touch of death and returned with both a superb essence of insight and prowess.
But... Why would he want me to join him?
"Are you certain that you're making a mistake?" she raised a questionable brow. "Bringing a stranger along may not be the wisest decision, especially after our disagreement before."
"Call it an act of faith?" he shrugged his shoulders lazily.
Though this was a swift affair, Pyrrha knew her curiosity would kick her for passing up this chance. She followed the faunus back to the castle stables. There were a variety of beasts residing within, many of which left the former princess in awe. To her surprise, Agayu led her to a modest area where a collection of smaller draconic creatures were perched.
"We'll take the Windrakes!" he announced enthusiastically. "They're perfect for long-distance traveling."
"I... I don't know about this."
"What's wrong?" he tilted his head. "Are you afraid of heights?"
"No! I mean..." she chewed her lip softly, mulling over what to say in her defense. "I'm not sure if... if Jaune and the others would approve of me leaving without warning. As the leader, it would be unprofessional if they found I was missing."
The prince considered her words carefully, noting the severity. Pyrrha made a valid point, but that didn't mean he didn't have a rebuttal.
"From what I noticed, the heiress and her vassal appeared to be preoccupied. The sisters... Penny and Ciel? I believe they're enjoying the festivities with Sage. I don't think you'll be missed that much, Pyrrha."
"Still... There's Jaune and..."
"He's free to join us if that would ease tensions."
The thought of her fiance joining them on this venture was tempting, but, despite the logical option, Pyrrha couldn't bring herself to act on it. Jaune was what she considered the overprotective type and, while it highlighted his good heart and devotion, it was more often a hindrance to her. She shook her head and smiled at her host.
If he's up to something, it would be best to play along.
"He wanted to sleep in today. I would hate to disrupt his need for rest for a casual trip."
Though her tone was as elegant as he remembered, the vulpine prince didn't miss the smallest hint of mischief.
He handed her a grappling hook and demonstrated how to attach it to the little reptile. She quickly learned the technique and they took off. Despite the risks involved, the experience of flying (in a way) was thrilling. She held tight and even grasped the thick rope for added safety, but couldn't resist laughing in delight at the sensation of being airborne.
This wasn't taking the scenery around them into account. The warmth soon hit her, soothing her previously chilly flesh. Shortly, Pyrrha was marveling at the landscape surrounding them. From the midday sun to the varying species, captivated could hardly describe the feelings welling inside of her.
"This...! This is amazing!" she laughed before noticing the tranquil faunus grinning at her childish exclamations. "How can you remain calm with all this beauty surrounding you?"
"I... I just drink it in and savor the moment."
His words perfectly illustrated deeper feelings as Pyrrha, the brave princess who defied her egotistical father to forge her path, drifted with her face lit up with glee. Agayu, or Aganju, didn't even bat an eye. But little did Pyrrha know that his mind was completely concentrated on her. While she expressed nothing but pure joy, he felt a mixture of gratitude and concern.
With his memories fully restored, every move he made had a greater purpose. He was no longer the former criminal-turned-prince. Now, he was a man on a mission. And as he looked at Pyrrha, he couldn't help but feel a deep sense of affection for her. She was more than just a princess who defied her father. She was a leader, a trailblazer, a force to be reckoned with.
In this world, Pyrrha was a beacon of hope, a symbol of courage. And Agayu knew that he had to do everything in his power to support her. He couldn't see her in the same way anymore. She was no longer just a princess. She was the key to a better future, and Agayu was determined to stand by her side no matter what challenges they might face.
This wasn't too far off from the real Pyrrha; His Pyrrha.
That's why he hoped to run into her in the city. It was his luck that she was without this realm's version of Jaune even if he couldn't rid the bitter taste from his mouth. Whoever put them here must've known his path as everything they encountered was a warped rendition of their trials in the real world.
The separation from Salem.
Meeting Pyrrha.
Challenging Cardin.
Defending Pyrrha from a horrible fate.
Being taken from her by an external force.
Everything is playing out in a similar fashion but with different events. Whoever is pulling the strings must be someone close to us.
"...Okay?"
"Huh?" he blinked, returning to the present moment and meeting a worried Pyrrha.
"I asked if you were alright. You spaced out and I wasn't sure where we were going."
The faunus looked down and led his Windrake to lower its altitude, urging her to follow him into a lush province. When they landed, they were surrounded by canopies of trees and vines. Various rabbit-like creatures scurried away though Pyrrha didn't mind much.
"We can set up camp here in case we need to rest," she heard him call from what looked like a campsite. "There's supplies and rations if you're hungry too."
"You have my gratitude, but would it be alright if we explore the area first?"
"Sure. Just let me grab some supplies and we'll be off!"
[Real World]
"Another one..."
The air was thick with the scent of Devil's Claw wine as Willow Schnee whispered to the barkeep. With her drink in hand, she downed it without hesitation, savoring the taste of the only luxury Vacuo had to offer. It wasn't like the wine she used to have back in Atlas, but she had to make do with what she could find in this foreign land.
Despite the rumors of rowdiness in the bar at nightfall, the former aristocrat, who is an outsider, was determined to take full advantage of her time here. Willow expressed gratitude that there were only a few customers in the bar today and was determined not to let the sweltering heat outside or any other distractions interfere with her goals. She refused to be deterred and was resolute in her pursuit of a productive and enjoyable experience.
Whatever the reason, Willow was grateful for the secluded surroundings as she set the glass down, signaling for another round. The barkeep obliged while telling one of the other patrons to switch the song on the jukebox, citing the music was too depressing. Expecting concern from the mixer, she was shocked when they poured more of the subtly sweet drink at first only to realize why that was after the third swig.
Vacuo had one rule: Survival of the fittest.
When she inquired further about the lack of interest in her drinking, the young woman simply shrugged, mentioning something along the lines of: 'As long as you have the money, her issues were no one's concern.'
Typical... She mused. Nobody cares when you're down on your luck.
"Number..." the woman paused abruptly, blinking away her blurred vision. "...Mmmm. Number six."
"Your life must be pretty fucked up if you're downing six Devil Claws."
Willow groused before throwing her head back, allowing the spicy flavor to trickle down her throat. She wasn't drunk by any means, but even her tolerance for liquor was being put to the test.
"Going for lucky number seven?"
"What's it to you?" she scoffed, keeping her eyes on the now-empty glass.
"Just looking out for you, lady. Even I'm not hasty enough to take that many shots of the stuff."
"Maybe you're just a..." Willow sat up only to clutch her now swimming head, rocking gently on her stool. "... a lightweight..."
"And you've likely hit your limit..."
The male placed his hand on her back to steady her. Unfortunately, this only resulted in the woman smacking his hand away in irritation. She didn't need any help; At least such a thought was empowering to her, yet the reality revealed just how screwed up she was via her stumbling and muttering. Many of the other patrons noticed but chose to return to their own devices.
The man shook his head and shifted his concentration to the woman behind the counter.
"One Saguaro tea, Stella?"
"Would that be for here or to go, sugar?"
Despite the heat, the Schnee matriarch couldn't shake off the subtle chill that flowed throughout her body. She tried to focus on anything to distract her from the buzzkill earlier. His deep voice. Gentle eyes. Those striped markings along his muscular arms. Get it together, Willow! Her mind was jumbled as she staggered around, not caring who saw her in such a state. All that mattered was that she was far away from that guy. However, she desperately needed a distraction.
Shopping? Visiting the academy? Finding her daughter?
Willow was adamant about forgetting the annoyance.
Her attempts were futile.
Her current condition was the embodiment of an internal tempest.
"The hell is wrong with me?!" she hissed, feeling the stinging of an impending hangover.
"You lost or something, sweetheart?"
As Willow stood in the dimly lit hallway, she suddenly felt a shiver run down her spine. Her body tensed up as a strange sensation crawled up her skin. Her heart began to race as a chilling hiss filled her senses, sending a wave of fear rippling through her. She felt as though she was frozen in time, unable to move or turn around, for fear of what she might find lurking behind her. Every fiber of her being was on high alert, as she waited with bated breath, hoping that whatever was out there would pass her by without noticing her presence.
"What's the matter, gorgeous? Cat got your tongue?" Another voice chimed in, high-pitched and grainy.
Her misfortune was confirmed when a group of hooligans emerged from the shadows. Vacuo was a place filled with diversity, but it was infamously known for its crime rate. Even worse, the "Strongest Win All" mentality was on full display, and unlike Atlas, she knew her place on the totem pole.
"Please. I... I don't want any trouble!"
"Aw, don't be afraid, sweetheart," One of the men stepped closer, his dirty fingers twirling strands of her hair. She remained perfectly still, silently praying that would be able to leave with her life.
Whispers of Vacuo's brutality had reached her ears long before she set foot in the land of the lawless. As an aristocrat, she had been sheltered from the harsh realities of the world, but now she was about to face them firsthand. The terror that gripped her was palpable, like a sand viper coiling around her, squeezing the air out of her with every passing moment. Each attempt to move was met with resistance from an invisible force, leaving her at the mercy of her unseen assailant.
Was this how she was going to die?
Tears began to fill her eyes as the others stalked forward, eager to join in the revelry of their forthcoming haul. They knew exactly who she was and they were going to get the most out of this moment.
I never should've left the academy! Brothers! Please...
A gruff hand rested on the small of her back, pulling her close enough to smell his rancid breath. With her stomach already unsettled from her previous drinks, Willow was powerless to stop herself from vomiting all over the man. Angered by this, he threw her aching form on the sandy ground sending her for a loop. The dulled misery had now intensified due to this, leaving the former aristocrat to curl up in a ball.
"You shouldn't have done that, bitch..."
Any energy that could've appeased the aggressor was lost as she could only continue spitting up bile and smaller quantities of liquor on the sizzling sand. She loathed what she'd become; all that she lost was more than she could take at this point. Her father's company. Her abusive husband. The proficiency of a huntress. Her home. Even her youngest daughter was missing!
I'm a horrible mother! I deserve my fate! Just... Just... Please end this suffering!
What once was a confident woman, brimming with life and hope, now, barely a shell of her former self remained.
The shadows of her assailants began to descend upon her, but she felt no pain. The hell she expected felt like an eternity, yet the hubris of her past remained just out of reach. Was it the demon's way of tormenting her?
"How long are you going to lie there quivering, snowflake?"
The deep voice from before pulled Willow from her sobs. Daring to peer over her protective covering, she was once again in the shadow of a towering figure. Eyes like fire gazed down upon her, piercing into her soul. Nonetheless, it was the nickname that set him apart from the others.
He extended a hand which she cautiously accepted.
"What's going on?" she held her throbbing head. "What happened to the...?"
"Never mind them."
The gentleman handed her a cup, urging her to drink. Against her better judgment, Willow took a sip, allowing the sweet liquid to soothe her throat. Soon, the pangs in her skull began to subside, leaving only the tiniest of lingering pulses behind. When she finished the drink, the figure leaned closer and wiped the remnants of vomit from her face.
"Thank you."
"Think nothing of it, Willow Branch!" Her eyes widened at the mention of another moniker.
Mustering the courage, Willow met the stranger's gaze, fixing her eyes on him. As if on cue, the clouds parted, allowing the moonlight to illuminate his face. His fiery eyes stared back at her, but she stood unafraid. Suddenly, she stepped back, not out of fear, but to get a better look at the mysterious man standing before her. Her face was etched with a mix of shock and disbelief.
"How dare you?! Only one person has the right to call me that!" she frowned defiantly. This caused her headache to return, but Willow didn't care.
As her tears kept streaming down her face, she couldn't contain her anger any longer. Her fury was palpable, and it seemed like nothing could calm her down. But as she faced the towering faunus, ready to give him a piece of her mind, something unexpected happened: he smiled. It was as if he knew all along that this was coming, and he was prepared for it. Despite her indignation, she couldn't help but feel intrigued by his reaction.
"It's good to see that fire again!" he released a robust chuckle that quickly died down into a somber smile. "After all this time, I thought that bastard snuffed it out. Color me impressed."
"What are you talking about? First, you have the nerve to call me..."
"Willow Branch?"
"Stop it!" she yelled back. "I'm warning you!"
"You still haven't figured it out yet?" he shook his head.
With all the strength she could muster, Willow pointed two digits at the larger male. A triangular seal formed from this action only to flicker out just as fast. Befuddled, she attempted to summon her glyph again with even worse results. She couldn't summon her semblance.
"What? Why can't I...?"
"Maybe this will jog your memory?"
She looked up and found his hand was extended to her. A glowing cord hung between them, a vibrant shade of cyan, flowing toward her until it wound around her own. Willow Schnee recognized this ability. It was a power she thought was lost forever, but, some part of her still refused to accept the truth. She bit back the sob that begged to be released as she stared at the Kodak faunus.
"It can't be..." she shivered as her fingers caressed the ethereal line. "Negaccion... That was his semblance."
"It is mine, Willow. I'm blocking your greatest strength."
"Ogun?"
The ursarine faunus bowed his head and winked at the woman. His tail swayed back and forth, matching the striped markings on his body. Finally, Willow allowed herself to feel the fullness of her pent-up emotions. Standing before her was a friendly face from her past. She rushed forward, nearly leaping into his arms. She buried her face into his chest and wrapped her arms around him with as much firmness as she could muster.
"Long time no see, Willow."
His deep voice left a gentle rumble that oddly left a smile on the woman's face. She couldn't find the words to answer, nor did she attempt to. Her arms wrapped around his massive frame as best she could, his pulse lulling her into the first true sense of peace since the destruction of Atlas. She buried her face into the nape of his neck while he shielded her from the moonbeams as if to declare them unworthy of brushing her.
He smells like the desert... she sighed to herself. "You've... changed a lot."
"Time in exile can do that to ya!" he gently separated himself from the woman, his eyes shining with oceans of merriment. Willow could see this and didn't bother to hide her smile. "Do you have a place to go tonight?"
Willow was about to mention the refuge of Shade Academy but stopped short. She instead feigned as if her head was ailing her once again. The muscular bear reached for her, sheltering Willow from any further harm. He didn't wait for an answer as several voices caught his ear. Ogun was no fool...
In Vacuo, survival was key and he was no stranger to the vicious laws of the land.
In a situation where the weak are at a disadvantage against the strong, a common approach is to form alliances for mutual reinforcement. This strategy was illustrated in a recent incident where our protagonist encountered some beaten thugs. Not willing to take any chances, he quickly guided his companion towards a path that would lead them away from the scene. The darkness provided them cover until they were back on the main roads, out of harm's way.
With Grimm outside their borders and a looming threat on the horizon, the last thing the pair needed was a fight over trivial matters.
"Where are we going?" Willow asked with concern lacing her voice.
"My place..." he spared a smile before pressing onward. Several more twists and turns would lead the pair back to the mainland where his home resided on the outskirts. Modesty was the only word that came to mind for the former heiress. "It's nothing compared to what you're used to, but it'll keep you safe. We can get you back to the school in the morning."
"No. It's just perfect!" she giggled, tired eyes wandering around the humble abode. "It reminds me of the old days when we used to go on missions."
"Don't get me started, Willow Branch... Back then, we had to deal with your husband's men as much as the Grimm haha. Not that I didn't enjoy sticking it to him, you know."
"I'm well aware..."
"I'm sorry, Willow. I didn't mean to open old wounds."
"There's nothing to apologize for," she shrugged with arms wrapped lightly around her. "We both know that he thought of you as a threat. A faunus and the SDC heiress? Teaming together? It burned a hole in him every single day, Ogun."
The Ursus let out a heavy sigh, but his grin never faded away. He briefly entered another room, giving Willow a chance to sit down and reflect on things. The mention of Jacque was a sensitive topic for her and, whether she felt remorseful or not, it was somewhat of a relief. Although it was comforting to know that he was no longer there in person, it was still painful for her to think back on what used to be.
She felt a heavy sadness for everything she had lost, especially the respect she once had for herself. Though Winter and Whitley were making progress in repairing their relationship, it was a slow and steady process. She found solace in seeing the eldest and youngest siblings reconnecting, but it only served as a reminder of the absence of Weiss. To make matters worse, Weiss and her team were missing and presumed dead.
"Like mother, like daughter..."
"Did you say something?" Ogun's sudden voice startled her. He noticed her tension and handed her a set of fresh clothes. However, the clothes seemed to be too big for her small frame. Looking at him, she noticed he now wore a tank top that perfectly showcased his muscular chest. "Sorry, it took so long. I wanted to change the sheets for you. If they're too big, I could get you a robe. The shower is down the hall, to the left."
Willow forced a smile, one that the Ursus was all too accustomed to.
"Willow?"
"You don't need to say anything," she hummed softly toward the concerned faunus. "I know that look. You used to give that look anytime you thought I needed protecting..."
"We could always skip the part where we argue and get right into the root."
As Willow hummed a somber tune, she couldn't help but notice the scars that adorned her host's muscular frame. Each seemed to hold a story, a tale she longed to know. Among them, she noticed one wound that stood out, which she recognized all too well. It was a reminder of the regret and shame brought on by her actions, and she felt a wave of empathy wash over her as she thought about the pain her host must have endured.
A lump of scarred flesh rested just below the middle of his collar. She eyed the small mound, specifically the various tendrils that expanded from it. The Ursus was a far cry from who she remembered him to be. You've been busy...
"What's the matter? Are you hurt?"
"No... It's nothing! I... I was just lost in my thoughts; Something I tend to do often."
"Mhmm."
"Ogun?"
"Yes?"
"Do you hate me?"
Ogun stared at the woman, watching as she turned away in shame. Rather than answering right away, he quietly ushered Willow to the bathroom, citing her need for cleanliness was more important. This afforded them some time to think about her query as the sounds of rushing water filled the residence. When she finished, Willow's mind was far from tranquil.
To her, his actions appeared to confirm her worst fears, yet, other elements were to the contrary. If he wanted you gone, he would've dropped you off at Shade Academy and been done with you! her mind screamed.
Once again, her guilt appeared, only to vanish when she noticed something outside the shower. She picked up a lotus-scented robe nearby, drying herself off before tying it firmly around her waist. When she returned, she found Ogun sitting on the couch opposite her. Although he smiled, she knew he hadn't forgotten about her question, despite her hoping otherwise.
"I brought us some drinks," he motioned to the glasses between them. "Don't worry, they're non-alcoholic haha."
Willow's weak laughter told the Ursus all he needed to know.
"I... was angry, Willow," he sat forward and pushed long tufts of hair that'd fallen over his face. "That day... I understood that your responsibility to your family came first. Sarai and Nyla were..."
"I don't care about Saria and Nyla!" Willow Schnee's outburst took the bear faunus by surprise. He held his hands up defensively until she finally exhaled before he relaxed. "I'm sorry."
"No apologies necessary, Willow Branch. Given how things were, it was my fault for bringing them up..."
A deafening silence filled the air as they sat across each other in the room. The only sound that could be heard was the gentle clinking of their glasses as they took sips from their drinks. The warm, smooth taste of lotus and honey soothed her parched throat, almost prompting her to let out a sigh of relief. It was a flavor that she had always loved and it brought back fond memories from her past.
Despite her initial reservations, she was surprised by how the conversation had turned out. It was not what she had expected, but she couldn't deny that there was a certain rush and excitement that came with it. It felt almost liberating to let go of her inhibitions and embrace the moment. As she reflected on the events of the evening, she couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over her.
"To the world, our team was once Atlas' top prospects. While I never saw eye-to-eye with the others, I knew they would come through in a pinch. In every test given, we excelled. No force could match our abilities and prowess... or that is what I always believed until..."
"The day you left?"
"That's why I asked. While I never cared for the opinion of either sister, you were different."
Uncomfortable couldn't begin to describe the emotions tumbling inside of Ogun. His cheeks grew warm at Willow's confession, but he cupped his fist to his lips as he pretended to cough.
"Me? What makes me so different?"
"For starters, you were my partner!" she stared into her drink, smirking as the pink liquid swirled inside the cup. "While everyone spent their time trying to befriend me for my wealth and status, you were the first to treat me like I was normal. We didn't get along right away, but..."
"Was it that bad?"
"I remember you saying, and I quote, 'Pairing me with an arrogant, pampered, princess has to be the Brothers experimenting with a new brand of torture...'"
Willow's deadpan earned her a nervous laugh from the embarrassed faunus.
"I see your point. But, that still doesn't explain why you wanted to know my feelings when you left."
"Perhaps I'm asking the wrong question?"
Ogun looked at his guest with a raised eyebrow, wondering what could be on her mind. However, before he could ask her anything, he noticed that she was staring straight at him with glazed eyes. Although she had been drinking earlier, he was convinced that she had sobered up by now. Willow wasn't drunk. Ogun's heart began to thump faster as she stepped closer to him and sat beside him. He could feel her hand on his cheek, and she gently brushed his beard. The touch of her soft hand on his skin sent shivers down his spine, and he couldn't help but feel a rush of excitement.
"Willow?"
"What were you so angry about that night, Ogun? Me leaving to head my father's company or me entering an arranged marriage with Gele?"
As she tried to sound flirtatious, her tone came across as rather sad and regretful. A tear trickled down her face while she forced a smile to appear. She knew that the question she had just asked was like a venomous bite from a viper, but it was the only way she could calm the fluttering butterflies in her stomach. For a long time, Willow had avoided asking difficult questions, even if it meant hurting others.
It's what led to her drinking habit that escalated further with each child born to that man. Despite her ex-husband's contribution to her plight, she couldn't deny that her own decisions led her down this rabbit hole.
It was years after Whitley's birth that she began to drink so laboriously, seeing how every one of them turned out. Seeing him under Jacque's wing left a bitter taste in her mouth that was only washed away with another bottle of wine. Only now did she understand that she was in the same room with the other side of the crossroads.
"I... I..."
"I need you to say it..."
"Say what?"
"Just tell me that you hated me! Please!" she burst into tears now, no longer willing to wear the mask of subtlety. "I broke your heart and you left because of me! I never wanted to marry him but I still chose to go through with it, at your expense!"
Willow was terrified when Ogun raised his hand, bracing herself for the inevitable blow. But to her surprise, he didn't strike her. Instead, he used his other hand to pull her close, enveloping her in a tight embrace. In hindsight, there was no reason other than her past trauma to even tease such an action. She could feel his anxiety pulsing through his body as her head rested against his chest, but at the same time, she was overwhelmed by a sense of safety that she had never felt before. It was the first time since they fled Atlas that she didn't feel completely alone and vulnerable.
"You saw how I felt back then, Willow Branch. This mark on my chest is more than proof of those feelings. If I hadn't been in a coma during your wedding, I would've done it all over again."
"But, you left..."
"I was unconscious. The rest of our team smuggled me here before your husband's men could finish the job. When I woke up, I was in a hospital here in Vacuo, far away from the place I once called home."
Willow shook her head with a grin. Hearing Ogun's explanation, she knew the truth behind his words was evident. She never had to question his stubbornness when it came to protecting her. It was one of the many things she loved about her long-lost friend...
Leave it to you to be tenacious. She yawned softly.
"I think you've had a long night. Let's get you some rest, and I'll escort you back to Shade tomorrow morning. How's that sound?"
But Willow knew better.
After some time of clarity, she was certain that this was another moment granted to her by the brothers. Much like with Winter and Whitley, she had another relationship, once marred by her passivity, available to heal. Unlike the others, this connection brought with it something she begrudgingly abandoned for the misguided path chosen by her loving father, rest his soul.
"Would you... care to join me?" she whispered, bringing a finger to her lips, that sly gaze pointed at the bear faunus. "I'm afraid those bad men may come looking for me."
"You're still a terrible actor," Ogun unleashed a hearty laugh, smiling warmly at his old friend. "But, I'd be happy to oblige you, Ms. Schnee."
As they looked into each other's eyes, they both felt the sparks of attraction. They knew that they wanted to be together, but hesitated for a moment until they finally gave in to their feelings. Ogun's arms wrapped around her waist and he lifted her with ease, causing her to let out a soft gasp of surprise. Willow was excited to see where this would lead, as they made their way to his bedroom. She couldn't wait to see what the future held for them and was eager to experience every moment with her former teammate.
Though many years passed, one thing remained: The flames of their attraction, beyond discernable reason, had remained lit, even after decades apart.
Willow looked up from her spot on the bed, finding Ogun's eyes pointed at her. The hunger in his gaze triggered her for a moment, switching to one of many terrible memories with her deceased ex-husband, but Willow powered through it. She had allowed that man to interfere with their partnership in life; She'd be damned if he was granted the privilege again in death.
Just as she snapped back to the present moment, Willow found her lips claimed softly by the larger faunus before wrapping her arms around his neck. Whatever came next, it was her choice.
And Willow was going to make the most of it.