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dreamer213 · 6 months

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Broken Machines: Between Shadows

Chapter 6: Corporate, Crime, and Colleagues

Being busy is a normal part of life most people just fall into. Be it because of schoolwork, actual work, chores, or a hobby, things just get backed up and need to be tackled in way too short of a deadline. And unfortunately for the two youngest high-ranking workaholics in the Atlas range, today was one of those days.

Whitley, up early as usual, had just gotten through his backlog of work that morning when Hannah knocked on his door.

Hannah: Young Master?

Whitley sighs, pockets his scroll and gets up from his desk to open the door for her. But when he sees her it’s clear something is very very wrong. Her expression is sour, and her face is slightly green from uneasiness, not something you want to see on your service staff so early in the day.

Whitley: What happened this time, Hannah?

Hannah: W-well, Master had a guest over last night.

Whitley: Yes, I’m aware. And?

Hannah: Well, it seems he’s made a…little messy in one of the guest rooms, and the cleaning crew is having trouble tidying it up.

Whitley: Are they running low on supplies or was there some property damage they can work around?

Hannah: N-no, it’s not that.

Whitley: Then what’s the problem?

Hannah: It’s…not easy to describe. Honestly, it would be easier just to show you. Please follow me.

Whitley sighs again before stepping out into the hallway and letting Hannah led him to the aforementioned guest room. As they’re approaching Whitley can already tell this was going to be unpleasant to deal with. The cleaning crew was standing outside the room dawned in protective smocks, industrial duty gloves, and masks. They all looked horrified but were completely clean as if they couldn’t even attempt to enter for fear of meeting some horrible fate. A foul snitch permeates through the hall, the only indicator of what’s got them so spooked. The moment Whitley gets a whiff of it his stomach drops, he knows that smell and immediately understands why everyone’s being so cautious. Still, he needs to confirm his hunch before calling in backup.

Whitley: Please God, let it be just a small pile on the bedsheets.

He prays, before opening the doors to the guest's room and peeking in. His eyes go wide in pure horror as he gets a glimpse of the mess inside. The smell hits him at full force causing him to double over and gag, stomach threatening to empty onto the floor. He pulls back slamming the doors shut before turning to Hannah.

Whitley: Where is the guest?

Hannah: In another room down the hall, asleep.

Whitley: Okay, make sure he gets rehydrated when he’s awake, and give him soft easily digestible food for the rest of his stay.

Hannah: Yes, sir!

Whitley: Thank you. Now I’m going to call the hazmat company to clean this up. When they finish take everything out of that room outside and burn it.

Hannah: Everything?

Whitley: Yes, not even the strongest industrial cleaner is going to get that level of snitch out.

Hannah winces and then nods her head in agreement, walking away to inform the other staff members of their new orders. Whitley calls up the cleaning specialist but just as he finishes the call, he gets a message from his father. A demand to summoning him to an in-house conference with some of his business associates. Or more accurately a meeting with a bunch of corks brushing aside the worries of middle management who know good and well that they’re toeing the line of legality on multiple fronts. And Whitley was going to play rear guard in case someone lost their temper, again.

Whitley: As always, there is no peace in this house.

He muses before walking back to his room to make preparations for the meeting.

Meanwhile, in Mantle, Penny is assisting in another emergency involving the robberies. The military detail for Hemlock Steel was making its way back with the shipment but two small explosions stopped them midway. The first detonated directly under the armored van’s engine causing it to blow up along with the front of the vehicle. This also caused a fire that quickly spread to the interior. The shipment truck stopped immediately after the blast, the soldiers inside leaped out to aid their comrades. Just as they were getting everyone out the second explosive went off. Though this one was just a flashbang, it still managed to temporally blind and deafen the soldiers in range. By the time most had regained their senses, the shipment truck was gone, and they had to call back up for transport back and to tend to the wound.

Which is where Penny came in.

It's hard to keep her anger in check as helps her fellow soldiers into medical vans, carrying a few who couldn’t stand and guiding others whose vision was still impaired by the second blast.

Penny: Okay, just take a few more steps.

She said softly, right hand set steady on the shoulder of a soldier and the other firmly grasped in his hand as they walked carefully on the icy terrain. He was a young man, a newer recruit barely nineteen years old, and already wore heavy prescription glasses. But they had shattered in the first blast, a reflexive blink being the only thing to save his eyes from direct damage. Until the second blast.

Penny: That’s it, now put your foot up onto the step.

She directs the man as he steps up and into the medic van, shaking while still grasping Penny’s hand tightly. He’s unsure in his steps but thankfully manages to get in safely where military EMTs get to look after him along with the other injured. Penny lingers for a moment to watch as they check his eyes, the meager reactions and dilation as they shine a light into them being clear indications of damage. Penny couldn’t help but be hit with a sharp twinge of pity for him. If it could be healed naturally it would take a while, leaving him somewhat blind for the duration. But if the damage was great enough to necessitate treatment via cybernetic or even complete ocular transplant then he would never be the same again. As one who’d had her whole body replaced aside from a few key organs, Penny knew just how foreign those new parts could feel in both good and bad ways. But she couldn’t dwell on it for long, there were still others in need of help before the cold or their injuries got to them.

Penny: Just focus on getting everyone home safe. Everything else is secondary.

She tells herself, pushing down the heavy emotions swirling around in her head as she returns to the wreckage to grab the next patient.

Back in Atlas, Whitley is sitting in the middle of a corporate battlefield. Accountants, lawyers, and descent-minded middle-upper management begging for clarification on discrepancies in budgets and complaints from both employees and customers while Jaques's team of well-bribed broader members deflected all wrongdoings.

The issue of missing money is the first to send everything into disarray, accountants terrified of possible tax issues demand to know why spending was so high. The most senior of them, Jeffery Hayward was especially vocal, reminding the board of the “cost-cutting measures” Jacques had put in place and how hard the finance and legal department had worked to make it happen without any of the four kingdom’s councils interfering.

Jeffery: We had protests around office buildings for months, White Fang members used it as an insight incident to justify the murder of multiple executives and a few board members! Men who were here when this company came to be and stood beside our founder lost, all for the sake of these policies! Policies that have not only damaged our company image with the masses but provoked multiple lawsuits from workers! Yet The Head of our massive enterprise has allowed spending to get this out of hand! Can someone please explain to me hoe this is remotely feasible?!

He shouted from across the long oak wood boardroom table, red-faced and clearly incensed. The Head himself however seemed unmoved and instituted of responding looks over to his son sitting in the chair to his left. He wasn't going to bother with this. Eyes cold with boredom, he stares Whitley down in a commanding way, giving the boy silent permission to speak. Catching his cue Whitley rises from his seat with papers in hand, ready to rebuke the claims. The forums were doctored to hide the truth, obviously and his selection was simple to act as a buffer between the two sides. Because who would dare question the young well-spoken future head of the company?

Whitley: The additional costs are from new expenses for necessary procedural and equipment overhauls in several departments due to changes brought on by changes in the closing of borders and loss of communication with a portion of our global facilities.

Jeffery’s anger calms for a moment as he processes the boy’s words. But it soon returned as more questions arose.

Jeffery: But this is simply too much of a discrepancy! An increase this high in over only a year is-

Whitley: Is necessary when the entire of the Atlas shipping fleet had to be switched from manned aircrafts to remote control aircrafts. There was also the cost of production of the new ships, the severance and retirement pay for the long-term pilots who were dismissed. One of whom’s family we are still forwarding a monthly salary and providing health insurance coverage due to the pilot going missing during his final delivery. Not to mention the added inflation on all of this due to Vale’s current economic and institutional restructuring.

He rebuffs elegantly, cutting off Jeffery and stopping the conversation in its tracks. Bringing up two tragedies, one of which directly relates to the company on a public level and the other on a practical level, gives the high-spirited pause and makes the bloat in cost seem more understandable. But this was just the beginning. Just like before Jeffery comes back with another fallacy in the situation and as the rest of the room looks on Whitley continues to stand his ground. It’s a war of attrition and the young man had more than a talking point and patience to win.

Unfortunately, Penny isn't so lucky. Just as the medics finish patching up the last of the injured the sound of loud stomping breaks through the icy winds. Sensing danger, Penny steps away aside and fires up her boots. She jets up into the air and looks in the direction where the sound is coming from, focusing in with her enhanced vision. What she finds is a horde of Ursai grimm coming their way! Most of the group is made of ursa minor but their numbers are high and the one ursa major among them was massive, towering over the other even from the back of the herd.

Penny: This is bad. At the rate they are traveling, we’ll only have five minutes before they reach us and less than fifty before they get to the city if they bypass us. Better cut them off now while we’re still out of sight.

Penny thought, activating her aura and focusing in on the ursa major before descending back down. She doesn't land immediately, instead, she hovers above the area steadily putting herself in a position where everyone can see and hear her.

Penny: Attention!!!

She shouts, and everyone stops in their tracks to look up at her. Giving of this air of authority Penny quickly briefs everyone on the situation.

Penny: A horde of Ursai is coming in from the east, twenty minor and one major!

The area irrupts into loud murmurs at the announcement, many of the injured looking frightened, and the able-bodied and uninjured quickly pick up their arms as Penny continues.

Penny: All the injured and incapacitated need to retreat, now. Everyone else, stay and prepare to engage. We’ll cut them off before they can reach the main road or city lines.

With no time to complain or even think the trooper replies with a simple “Yes, Ma’am!” before going to work. Within moments all the injured had packed into medical vans and were heading back to the city while the active soldiers ready themselves for a fight. As the horde comes into view, the soldiers form a firing line and take aim. Penny, still in the air, signals to those on the ground to hold.

Penny: I’m going to take down the major to break their formation, focusing on minors before they break away from the group.

The soldiers reply again with another “Yes, Ma’am,” and retrain their sights to the smaller Ursa minors. Just as they get into firing range Penny flies directly at the Ursa major. Discharging all her swords, Penny sends them flying at all four of the beast’s limbs before kicking it directly in its mask-shaped outer skull, hurling it back and onto its stomach. Confusion spreads through the horde as their leader falls to the ground, giving the soldiers a clear shot as they open fire. The ursa major doesn’t get a chance to get back up as its limbs lose all function from the deep cuts Penny slashed into the joints. It only gets a few seconds to flail about before Penny fires an energy blast at it, obliterating the large beast’s head in one blow. As the rest of its body crumbles away Penny refocuses onto the ursa minors. Almost half had already been mowed down by the firing line while a few had managed to break away. So, with a quickness like no other, Penny gives chase. Not a single one of these grimm were getting to the city on her watch, even if she had to fight them off by hand!

Busy in battle, Penny unknowingly misses her lunch call with Whitley. Not that he could answer, the meeting running so long that they had to have food brought in. The quality and quantity of which causing another agreement, one Whitley had to agree for while everyone else ate. By the end, the boy was exhausted and in much need of some reprieve but as always things don’t go his way. As his father’s seeing off his colleagues, promising to go out with the man and his associates for drinks that weekend, Olga approaches him. Her face is strewn as she tries to tell him something, but he just brushes her off. Sensing her disposition Whitley looks over at her and motions for her to wait at the side. She does just as the last man goes out the door and Jacques re-enters the manor.

Jacques: Gods, that was exhausting!

He signed, taking off his clip-on tie and tossing it to one of the maids who catches it on reflex. He stretches his arms as if he’s just had the most troublesome day, a low yawn escaping him as he does so.

Jacques: Someone fetch me my cinder box, I’ll be in my study. Don’t disturb me.

He commands, the staff present reply in unison with a respectful but monotone “Yes, Master.” Jacques huffs proudly at the display of obedience and leaves, the tension in the room deflating once he’s footsteps can no longer be heard. Now in the clear Olga rushes over to Whitley, the sternness in her eyes now mixed with a hint of anger.

Olga: Young Master! You need to come with me right now!

Whitley: What is it this time Olga?

He says in an aspirated tone, emotionally unwilling to take on any more tasks but unable to refuse. This attitude soon shifts into one of urgency as Olga clarifies her request.

Olga: Something has happened in the Mistress’s bedroom!

Whitley: What!

He exclaims, voice full of shock and worry at the prospect of something happening to his mother. Without any delay, Whitley and Olga head to Willow’s wing as quickly as possible. During the walk over Whitley’s mind races with possible scenarios that could have befallen his unfortunate and at times barely coherent mother. Thankfully none of them comes to pass as when they arrive Whitley is greeted by the sight of his mother in her bed asleep. She was dreaming peacefully while on the other side of the room stood, Yuko and Mary. Mary was standing there with her usual uninterested glaze while Yuko was holding down another maid in a tight grip. The young woman had her head down, her long dark blonde hair obscuring her face. Mary is the first to spot them and quietly strides up to them.

Mary: Evening Young Master.

Whitley: What’s going on Mary?

Mary: Mistress was experiencing more headaches then usual and decided to go to bed early tonight. After I put her down, I called for Olga and Yuko to help me tidy up “the usual mess.”

Her gaze falls to the floor, looking pointedly at the stray empty wine and bourbon bottles start on the floor. Whitley scowls at the sight and, not wanting to think about it, presses Mary to move on.

Whitley: Yes, and?

Mary: As we were cleaning that girl over there, I believe her name is Tabitha, came to the door with a basket of fresh laundry. She insisted on putting everything away herself, so I let her come in. But not long after I heard something fall from the closet and when I looked, I found her hiding this behind her back.

Mark holds up a silver brooch with a large red jewel at its center.

Whitley: That’s!

He takes the jewelry from her hand and holds it gingerly. He knew this brooch well for it once was pinned to the shirt of a man he deeply admired. The last person to make him feel secure and at peace before Penny. This was his beloved grandfather’s brooch; one he wore often when out of his armor and had been a treasure keepsake for his mother. One that never left her room since his death, store away in a jewelry box she kept at the back of her closet. And yet.

Whitley: How dare!

Whitley maintains a neutral face as he takes the jewelry piece and puts it back where it belongs. Pulling the jewelry box off the shelf, he stared at it for a moment. It was an old silver box shaped like a grand piano, a birthday gift for Willow after she’d gained an interest in the instrument all those years ago. It had no lock but why would it need one? No one was foolish enough to touch something so valuable and meaningful to the literal inherent of the estate. At least no one with sense.

Whitley: Yet some people are just so rotten even that doesn’t faze them.

He thought bitterly as he gently placed the brooch back with the other jewels and returned to the box to its hiding place. When he turns back around, there’s a burning anger from him that puts everyone but Mary on alert. Seeing any other Schnees this irritate was cause for concern but seeing the normally calm and courteous Whitley like this? That was almost mythical and completely unpredictable. Without a word, he walks toward the door, stopping at the door front then turning back to pointing out to the hallway. With his blazing gaze, he conveys a simple demand “Outside now,” which all four maids follow immediately, Yuko carrying Tabitha out by her arms as the attempted thief drags her feet. Whitley gently closes the door behind, eyes trained on his mother’s sleeping form to make sure the noise does wake her. On out in the hallway, Whitley marches up to Tabitha and Yuko.

Whitley: Hold her up.

He orders, Yuko complies and lifts the girl up onto her feet.

Whitley: Tabitha.

Addressing the theft, Whitley expected her to look up at him and try to explain herself. However, it seems that despite being shameless enough to steal a beloved keepsake from the person she’d called Mistress she somehow was too ashamed to look at the woman's child as he confronted her.

Whitley: Tabitha, look at me.

His voice was cold and menacing, his tone sending frightened shivers down the blonde’s spine. Scared of what could come to pass if she refused, Tabitha slowly raised her head though her gaze stayed on the ground. Annoyed by this Whitley tilts her head up by her chin using his index and middle fingers. He held her face so that her brown eyes have no choice but to stare into his deep blue which now bore terrifying hollowness as they stare back. It was so harsh Tabitha felt like she might cry. For a moment, the vast power difference between them became clear. Despite seeing him near daily most of the staff never fully recognized how much Whitley had grown in the last few years. His dignified demeanor and attitude made it hard to see him as anything more than the proper little young master. But right now, they could see he wasn’t the little boy he’d used to be but a young man with far more strength than most would ever realize.

Whitley: Collect your things from the maid’s quarters then turn in your resignation. You have one hour to leave this manor and never return.

Tabitha: But-

Whitley: And if you fail to do so I will have you arrested for theft and blacklisted across the kingdom before you can even post bail. Do you understand?

Tabitha nods in the affirmative erratically and Whitley finally lets her go. His gaze doesn’t leave her as Yuko lets her go, causing the blonde to fall to her knees before scrambling back up and running away.

Whitley: Yuko.

Yuko: Yes?

Whitley: Make sure she does as told and drag her out if she doesn’t follow through.

Yuko: Yes, Young Master.

Whitley: Olga, tell the head maid of Tabitha’s dismissal and why in detail. Don’t leave her any room to talk her way out of it.

Olga: Yes, Young Master.

With that, both maids leave to carry out their new orders. This left Mary and Whitley alone, the maid giving the boy a knowing look. It wasn’t often that she got to see the boy bare his fangs in person but when she did it only reminded her that she’d back the right one. The young heir could be just as cruel as he could be kind when needed, it’s one of the traits she’d first spotted in him. A testament to the type of leader he’d become when the time was right.

Whitley returns her look with a scoff before leaving, his mood utterly soured. He disliked acting harshly but had no mercy when ruthlessness was deserved. Still, the whole situation left a bad taste in his mouth as he wondered what could have happened if his mother had been awake to see such a scene.

Whitley: She’d would’ve been in hysterics if she’d seen that. Gods knows how she is about Grandfather’s things.

He muses as he strides back to his room, foreseeing another of work coming his way when arrives he takes the long routine back to prolong the inevitable. In his steps, his mind wanders to happier things, specifically the lovely redhead he’d been dying to see.

Down on Mantle’s streets, Penny is also taking the long way back as she finally heads home. Taking down the rest of the ursa minors took longer than expected as a pack of beowolves came in behind them. Now after getting back and getting all the reports done Penny’s workday is over and she could some much-needed rest!

Penny: Can’t wait to get home! I need something warm to eat, soft pajamas, and a nice bubble bath.

She mused, a tired yawn escaping her as she turned a corner. She’s walking past a retail store when she spots a familiar face up ahead. Decked out in her usual bright colors and roller skates in front of a burger shop was Neon Kat, holding a hefty bag on her tail while both her hands rested on her hips as she argued with a man on the street.

Neon: For the last time Mike, I am not interested!

She shouts, looking at the man, Mike, with obvious disgust. Mike doesn’t take this lying down and shouts back.

Mike: Bullshit! I know you want me!

Neon: Like Hell I do! You’re a piece of shit!

Mike: Ha! Says the slutty cat!

Neon: The fuck did just you call me?!

Mike: You heard me! Everyone knows you rotate through your dickbag teammates on the daily.

Neon: You son of bitch! Don’t you dare bring my team into this!

Their bickering attracts stares and whispers from passersby, but no one moves to intervene. Tired but not wanting her reckless friend to get in trouble, Penny goes to break them up. As she’s approaching Mike raises his hand to strike Neon, the cat faunas too caught up in yelling to notice. But as he brings it down, something grips on his wrist tight. It’s Penny’s hand, holding his wrist with strength that threatened to snap it in two.

Mike: What the-

Penny: Leave my friend alone.

Mike: Let go of me, you crazy bit-

Penny: Leave now before I make you leave.

She states eyes a glow as she grips him a little tighter. The pressure sends a wave of pain down his arm and Mike's face pales. She lets go when he pulls away, backing up into a wall before taking off in terror. Situation handle Penny turns Neon to check if she’s okay.

Penny: Are you okay Ne-

Neon: Penny Pop!

But it’s unnecessary as Neon quickly latches onto her in a bear hug.

Neon: What’s up girly! Whatcha doing around here?!

Penny: Walking home, I just clocked out for the night. What about you?

Neon: Gettin dinner for the gang.

She brings her tail around and shakes the bag of food in Penny’s face.

Neon: My period just started, and it gives me mad red meat and cheese cravings. And since it’s payday I thought I’d be nice treat my boys too!

Penny: That’s…more information than I really needed.

Neon: Whateves. Hey, you wanna come back to the barracks with me? We’re having a jam session to prep for a concert we got coming up.

Penny: Team FNKI’s performing again?

Neon: Yeah, Bossman Iron Pants says morale had been tanking all over town and asked us to dish out some of our special brand of funk to people’s spirits up!

Penny tilts her head, getting the jest of what she means but losing bits of it among the slang.

Penny: Bossman? Do you mean General Ironwood?

Neon: Duh! Who else would I mean?

She chuckles, promoting Penny to roll her eyes and lightly shove her off her shoulders.

Neon: So, you in or what?

Penny: Sorry, Neon but I have to get home soon. My dad’s making pasta for dinner, and I need to get there before it gets cold.

Neon: Aw, what! That’s so lame!

Penny: Maybe to you but it’s not to me. Good night Neon.

She waves Neon goodbye before continuing her trek home.

Neon: Hey wait!

Neon rolls in front of her, blocking Penny’s path.

Penny: What is it?

Neon: Just give a sec! I still owe you for scaring off that douchebag.

Penny: It’s fine, Neon, that’s my job.

Neon: Still! You’ve had me and my crew’s backs for a minute now and feels like I owe you something for all the trouble.

Penny: It’s really not a problem, you and the rest of team FNKI are my friends and comrades. I’ll always be there for you if you need me.

Neon: See, that’s what I’m talking about! You’re just too damn sweet, Penny.

She chirps while pinching Penny’s for her unbelievable cuteness. Penny lets her have her fun for a few seconds before brushing her hand away.

Penny: Quit it.

Neon: Sorry, couldn’t help it. All those freckles on your chunky cheeks just makes your face look so squishable!

Penny: Okay? If that’s all then I really should-

Neon: No wait! Just give me a second to think.

Neon takes a moment then comes up with a brilliant stupid idea. She turns around and kneels down in front of Penny, putting her hand behind her back with her palms facing up.

Neon: Jump on!

Penny: Excuse me?

Neon: Get on, I’m gonna blade you home!

Penny: Seriously?

Neon: Yeah! It’s the least I can do!

Penny: You do realize my skeletal structure is made of metal, right?

Neon: Yeah, I know. But I also know you don’t weigh half as much as you pretend you do. Now get on!

Penny: (sigh) You are truly infuriating Neon Kat.

Against her better judgment gets on her back. She wraps her arms around Neon’s shoulders and neck and puts her feet onto her hips. Once she’s securely on her, Neon asks Penny for directions to her house. She enters her usual route into Neon’s scroll, and they set off. It’s a surprisingly quaint ride as they roll the streets at a leisurely pace.

Neon: Having fun back there?

Penny: A little, I haven’t been on someone’s back like this in a while.

Neon: Really? Not a fan of piggybacks?

Penny: No, it’s more out of independence. After I started walking, I just preferred to move on my own. Before that, I was mostly sedentary so when I got the chance to move on my own I got overexcited and I didn't really rely on anyone for transportation.

Neon: Cool, walk your own path sister! But don’t forget that there’s always a helping hand there if you need it.

Penny: I know.

They continue rolling down the streets when Neon gets another bright idea.

Neon: Hey, wanna see something cool?

Penny: Sure.

Neon: Okay, hold on tight!

Penny: Wait, what are you going to-WHOA!

Penny shouts as Neon activates her semblance, propelling them forward at a high speed under a haze of rainbow light. Despite being used to high velocity from flying Penny had never moved like this on the ground. She can feel every bit of wind resistance, every crack and bump on the sidewalk as they glide through town. It’s a bit terrifying but also thrilling! Penny can’t help but smile as they zoom, Neon laughing aloud when she catches her grin. Before she knows it they’re right in front of her house, Neon taking a few spins around a light post to slow down before coming to a full stop.

Neon: Ladies and gentlemen, we have reached our destination, please take all bags and luggage as you depart, and thank you for riding the Neon rails!

She quips while putting Penny down, the girl giggling as she gets her feet on the ground.

Penny: Thanks Neon! That was so much fun!

Neon: Any time girl! Hit me up if you’re ever looking to party, peace!

Penny: Bye Neon.

She waves her goodbye while Neon throws her a peace sigh before rolling away. Home at last, Penny gets out her keys and unlocks the front door. She walks in and is welcomed back by the scent of tomato sauce and garlic bread, her dad hard at work in the kitchen.

Penny: I’m home!

She announces, catching her dad’s attention as he’s pulling the garlic bread out of the oven.

Pietro: Welcome back, Sweetpea! You ready for dinner?

Penny: You know I am! I haven’t eaten since this morning!

Pietro: Well then put your bags down and set the table. I got a whole pot of spaghetti and extra big meatballs!

Penny: Okay!

She chirps, pulling off her backpack and sitting down to take off her boots. Her mood had lifted so much higher from where it was, she couldn’t help but kinda feel lucky.

Penny: Despite everything, today was very eventful and exciting. I got a lot done, protected many, and even had a little fun. Give them circumstances, this is as good as a day like this could get.

She thought while placing her left boot to the side. Before she starts on the other one Penny hears a notification come in on her scroll. She opens and once she reads the words on the screen, she can’t help but jump up in joy! However, her landing falls flat as the height difference between her barefoot and single boot leaves her off balance, making her fall to the floor. But that barely faxes her as her giddiness sends her into a giggling feat, eyes clouded over and absolutely lovestruck as she re-reads the text.

Whitley: [Are you free this weekend?]

#fanfic #rwby fanfiction #penny polendina #rwby #whitley schnee #pietro polendina #neon katt #jaques schnee #fanfiction #angst #cute #beta testers #sorry it took a while #broken machines

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dreamer213 · 5 months

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Broken Machines: Between Shadows

Chapter 7: Wandering with you.

Clothes lay scattered across her bed as Penny searched through her closet. The night Whitley texted her they’d spent hours after dinner planning this meet-up. Jacques was heading out again and the weather was going to be nice all weekend, so they’d have plenty of time to spend together. Whitley had been cooped up in the manor for a while, so Penny had suggested they go to the park and get some fresh air together.

Penny: I know a nice one nearby. It has an ice rink, a big playground, and some picnic tables. We can go ice skating and get lunch from one of the street vendors!

She proposed, Whitley ruminated on the suggestion for a moment. He hadn’t been to a park in over a decade but the thought of skating with Penny did tickle his fancy too much to refuse.

Whitley: Should I bring my own skates?

He quips with a smile. With the location picked out and a time frame sorted the only thing left to do for Penny was pick out an outfit! It wasn’t too cold out but there was still snow on the ground so pants or leggings would be best if she was going to be doing physical activities. Being a skirt lover Penny looked through all her causal clothes for a suitable one, as she searched, she recalled the stylish cold-weather outfit she’d picked up at Stellar oh so long ago. Putting the pieces together and looking them over as set Penny decides to swap out the yellow boots for her brown winter boots so she can be steady on her feet instead of risking stumbling while breaking in the higher heels. She also switches out the compass-themed accessories for her silver brooch to better match her deep blue blouse. She dawns her outfit then checks herself out in the mirror and after a few adjustments everything looks great. Now on to hair, since she’s gonna be active a simple high ponytail works fine. And as a final touch, she applies a coat of cherry lipgloss to her lips, a little something she picked up at the store earlier in the week. It’s a small touch that adds a lovely little shine to her appearance.

With that Penny’s ready to go, placing her necessities into the large pockets of her coat and heads downstairs. Her dad had gone up to the academy to help run some diagnostics on the mechas stationed at the border earlier that day, so Penny locks up the house before leaving. She practically skips all the way to the station and seems to sway as she stays outside waiting for Whitley.

Whitley himself was just as excited, sitting on the train bound for the lower city. He’d dressed a little more carefully this time, adding a blue and gray plaid sweater vest and low leather boots to his ensemble along with a satchel. Inside this satchel was a pair of ice skates, ones he hadn’t used in some time but luckily still fit. He’d spent more than an hour the night before checking and prepping them for today. After browbeating Mary into sneaking him the needed material, Whitley had polished the skates to perfection and even sharpened up the blades to ensure they’d been in peak form. He holds them tightly in his lap as the train car slowly comes to a stop at its destination.

Stepping out onto the platform and into the station Whitley wades through the crowd to the exit. He debates trying to sneak up on Penny again but is spotted before he can come to a decision.

Penny: Hey! Over here!

She calls out, waving him over from the closet street corner. Whitley turns and bolts straight for her, throwing the satchel straps over one shoulder as he goes straight for a hug. As soon as they make contact Whitley lays his head in the crack of Penny’s and breathes in deep. Taking in her essence and breathing out all the stress he’d been storing, Whitley feels instantly lighter. Her soothing presence and comforting scent putting him completely at ease. Penny wraps her arms around his shoulder and neck, giggling a little when his hair tickles her cheek.

Whitley: Gods, I missed you.

He whispers sweetly, Penny’s cheeks heat up as she responds in kind.

Penny: Missed you too.

After a long embrace they part, Whitley stealing another longing glaze and immediately notices the tent of pink on Penny’s lips.

Whitley: What’s this?

He asks, grasping Penny’s chin with his hand and tilting it upwards to get a better look. The gloss shimmers as Whitley holds a teasing finger right under her bottom lip.

Whitley: Is this-(chuckles)-are you wearing makeup?

Penny: J-just some lipgloss.

She stammers in response, face glowing beet red as she gently pushes Whitley’s hand away. He smirks at her reaction and then holds out an arm to her.

Whitley: Shall we?

Penny links her arm with his with a soft smile and they two begin their trek to the park. Thankfully it doesn’t take long as Penny guides them through the quickest route. The park itself looks like a stretch of pathways surrounded by deep snow, grass barely peeking out from the depths of it. There’s hardly anyone around besides some elderly people sitting on benches, playing chess on the public boards, or feeding the few flocks of birds that congregate in the area. Some wave as they pass when they notice Penny, a few inquiring about the young man she’s with. Phrases like “Who’s this?” “Is he a friend of yours?” “Is that your boyfriend?” and more are repetitively hurdled at Penny as they walk through the park. She brushes them off and tries to hurry past to avoid more prying while Whitley quietly chuckles under his mask, playfully waving back as they wade through the wave of nosy old people. Eventually, they reach their destination, the ice rink and playground.

The playground was nothing remarkable, just a metal jungle gym, some swings, seesaws, and monkey bars. Children were playing about all over the place, all dressed in thick winter coats that hardly seemed to slow down the running, jumping, and playing as the little ones enjoyed the snow-covered landscape. Opposite to that was the equally bustling ice rank where the older parkgoers make their best attempts at skating around the rink. Most just do careful rotations while others try to pull off tricks. Couples young and old hold hands as they skate together, teens do dumb tricks that raise the ire of the custodians working who promptly yell at them to knock it off and children hold on to training frames as their parent helps them get the hang of things.

Penny’s eyes shine in excitement at the sight of so many people out enjoying the day, meanwhile, Whitley is less than impressed. This was honestly the shabbiest rink he’d ever seen, completely outdoors with loaner skates that had been in circulation for five years at the least and a main building that most likely hadn't been renovated in the last decade. But seeing Penny’s excitement he pushes all that aside, as long as she’s happy and at his side the venue doesn’t matter.

Whitley: So, you ready to go skating or-

Penny: Yes!

She interrupts him, eagerness practically beaming off her.

Whitley: Okay then little miss go-getter, why don’t you go get some skates and I’ll meet you on the rink?

Penny: Okay! I’ll be right back! Don’t start without me!

She exclaimed joyfully before running off to the counter to borrow a pair of skates. Getting in line with others Penny waits patiently for her turn as others ahead of her get their skates and head to the ice.

Rink Attendant: Next.

The attendant calls as the last person in front of Penny steps out of the way, letting her move up to the front.

Penny: Hello! I like to borrow a pair of ice skates, please!

She asks, the slightly disinterested teen attendant gives her half a gaze before pushing a clipboard with the sigh in form over to her but pauses when he realizes who’s in front of him.

Rink Attendant: What the-are you are-are you the flying huntress lady? Penny, right?

Penny: Yes, that’s me.

Rink Attendant: Holy crap, you’re like a local hero! My little cousin is crazy about you, he won’t shut up about seeing you around town!

Penny: Aw, really? What’s his name?

Rink Attendant: Georgy.

Penny thinks for a moment, combing through her memories for a child with that name. And soon she finds it, recalling the face of a particularly excitable little boy among one of the groups of children she sees almost daily.

Penny: Oh, little Georgy. He should be turning seven this month, right?

Rink Attendant: Yeah, tomorrow actually! How’d you know?!

Penny: He told me the last time I helped his class cross the street to their elementary school, he was passing out invitations while in line. Please tell him I said happy birthday.

Rink Attendant: I will trust me I will! So, what did you need again?

Penny: Ice skates, please.

Rink Attendant: Alright, alright, what’s your shoe size?

Penny: Six and a half.

Rink Attendant: Okay, just put down your first and last name and your scroll number here and I’ll be right back with your skates.

Penny: Okay.

Penny notes down her name and number while the attendant goes over to the rack of skates and finds a pair in her size. After a few minutes, he returns and puts the skates on the counter.

Rink Attendant: Here you go, just remember to bring them back when you’re done.

Penny: Of course, thank you.

Penny grabs the skates and turns to walk away, as she’s leaving the attendant calls out to her.

Joey: Be the way my name’s Joey!

He half shouts, the attendant at the snack bar shaking her head disapprovingly. Penny, being no stranger to gaining admiration from her citizens, looks back at him and smiles.

Penny: Thanks again, Joey. I promise to return these in the best state possible.

She beams before running back over to the rink. Going up to the opening closest to the entrance, Penny spots Whitley standing in wait, holding onto the side while wearing his skates. He notices her approaching and waves her over.

Whitley: There you are, I thought you’d gotten lost again.

Penny: Sorry, the line was longer than I expected, I also met a relative of a fan of mine and made some light conversation.

Whitley: A fan? I didn’t know I was dating a celebrity.

He jests, Penny giggles at his joke as she sits down and removes her shoes.

Penny: I’m not a celebrity say per se, just very active in the protection of the city and the safety of its citizens. People took notice of my efforts and appreciate me for it.

Whitley: I see. So aside from being a great student, model soldier, and an amazing partner, you’re also a pillar of your community. Is there anything you can’t do?

He states with a wink, garnering another giggle as well as a blush from Penny while she pulls the skates onto her feet and starts tying the laces. Looking between them it’s obvious Whitley’s skates are the superior pair. White leather, in perfect condition with blades sharp enough to cut through the ice like butter. Meanwhile, Penny’s loaners were a worn dingy brown color that had clearly seen better days, the blades being the only saving grace on them. Penny is far too excited to notice or care about that whole Whitley silently contemplates getting her a pair as a gift for the next time they go skating. But before he can start thinking about what color she’d prefer; Penny gets up and attempts to stand in her skates.

Penny: Okay, they’re on! Now let’s-Whoa!

But she quickly loses her balance, Whitley quickly moving forward to catch her arm and help her stand up straight before she can fully tumble to the ground. Holding onto his arm, Penny has trouble keeping her footing on the thin blades.

Whitley: Easy, easy, just take it one step at a time.

Whitley advises, holding onto to Penny with on arm and the side of the rink with the other. Penny nods cautiously and slowly starts taking baby steps toward the rink, never letting Whitley’s hand go for a second. Her excitement quickly turns to nervousness as Penny’s never felt this unsteady on her feet before, legs shaking with apprehension at every step. She moves at a snail’s pace, inch by inch, and watches her feet until she’s right up against Whitley at the entrance to the rink. Seeing the tension in her movements Whitley gently steps back onto the ice and takes her other hand in his, gently guiding her out with him.

Whitley: Penny.

He calls, trying to distract her from her fear but it goes unheard.

Whitley: Penny!

He repeats, this time more forcefully. This does manage to grab her attention as Penny’s graze jerks up from the ground and onto Whitley.

Whitley: Keep your head up. You can’t see where you’re going if you keep looking down like that.

Penny: O-okay.

Whitley: Good, now relax. If you’re stiffen up like that, you’ll lock your knees and fall.

Penny: O-okay, okay.

Penny takes a few deep breaths and tries to relax her body, still holding onto Whitley as they stand on the ice. Once she stops shaking and her breathing evens out Whitley continues.

Whitley: Calm now?

Penny: Yeah.

Whitley: Great…Are you ready to try and move?

Penny hesitates for a moment, looking down at her feet again before looking back at Whitley. He seems so calm; his gaze is so soft as he stares at her, and his hands caress her arms gently. His demeanor is just so serene and comforting Penny wanted to dive straight into his arms and hold him close. But being in public and knowing she’d never get skating if she did, with a look of pure determination Penny nods yes.

Whitley: Okay. First things first, put your dominant foot forward.

Penny nods and cautiously puts her right foot forward.

Whitley: Okay, now I need you to lean your weight towards me and push forward.

Penny: Just move forward on only one foot?

She asks starting back down at her feet then looks back up, her nerves clearly getting to her again. Whitley, overcome with compassion and worry, tries to reassure her.

Whitley: It doesn’t have to be much, just do whatever you’re comfortable with. You can hold onto me for leverage, and make sure to raise your other foot as push off.

Penny: Okay.

Penny takes a big deep breath in, shuts her eyes, and pushes forward, Whitley moving backward to match her step. When she realizes she hasn’t fallen yet, opens her eyes and peeks around to see that she is still standing. Relieved and reassured Penny looks to Whitley with a smile, as if asking to take another step.

Whitley: Now the other.

He chimes, encouraging her to keep moving. She pushes off on her left foot and they move forward a bit. Feeling more confident, Penny keeps moving forward, her stripes getting bigger as they go. Through this, Whitley continues to hold her, moving backward at her pace with ease. As they skate along the long side of the rink Penny grows more comfortable and relaxes into the rhythm of their movements. It’s smooth sailing until they close in on one of the bends, Whitley looking back ahead of them to see how close they are to the curve.

Whitley: Okay, we’re coming up on a turn.

Penny: Oh no!

Penny’s eyes dilate with fear, but Whitley quickly reassures her.

Whitley: It’s okay. Just gently lean your weight away from the curve, I’ll help you balance.

Penny: Are you sure I won’t fall?!

Whitley: I promise you won’t, trust me.

Penny nods and as they hit the turn, she leans with Whitley, and they glide around the rounded edge of the rink. As they drift Penny stares into Whitley’s eyes, they glimmer with absolute admiration and trust as they gaze into hers. The look gives her peace of mind as they reach the other end of the curve.

Whitley: There we go. Now straight back up.

He chirps, causing Penny to giggle as they straighten out again. They glide around the rink a few times until Penny seems comfortable with her skating, only then does Whitley let go of one of Penny’s hands and skate alongside her. As they drift leisurely across the ice, Penny can’t help but gaze at the other skaters. Specifically, she looks in awe of the more seasoned ice dancers practicing their craft nearby. One girl, in particular, grabs her attention as the dancer moves closer to the center of the rink and performs a lay-back spin. The girl arches beautifully as twirls in one skate, tutu over her thermos haloing her waist as she spins. This display garners the amusement and astonishment of many on the rink, including Penny who releases of Whitley’s hand to applaud her. Seeing her attention taken off him, Whitley feels a tiny tinge of jealousy.

Whitley: It’s not that impressive, her execution was poor, and she could barely keep her form for more than a few seconds. I could do better.

He really could, Whitley was well-versed in the art of figure skating. Having spent years being trained by many master skaters alongside Weiss and Winter as part of their formative education. His skill was a performance level and though he hardly used this skill the training had been so intense most of the move set he was taught had been committed to muscle memory. And with a glint of playfulness in his eyes, Whitley moves away from Penny and towards the inner parts of the rink. Penny reaches out to with a confused expression on her face but Whitley just shots her wink and strides onward.

Whitley opens up his coat and increases his speed as he does a half routine around the rink before turning around and doing a backflip, landing elegantly on one leg. He then slides into a camel spin, upper body and left leg up in a horizontal position as he spins with his right. Once he spins out Whitley skates backward for a good distance until he builds up the momentum for a waltz jump into a double salchow then a triple axel.

Penny watches on in pure amazement, as do many of the other skaters on the rink. Seeing these reactions Whitley goes further and shows off his best footwork before capping his performance with a layback spin that folded into a sitting spin. There’s a small round of applause from the onlookers, Penny being the most enthusiastic as she fights the urge to jump up and down while clapping her heart out. Whitley notes her eagerness as he takes a dramatic bow before skating back to her side.

Penny: That was amazing!!!

Whitley: Thank you.

He says with a smirk, relishing in the brilliant sparkles of astonishment in Penny’s eyes.

Penny: I knew you were a good dancer, but this is a completely different art!

Whitley: Figure skating is a common aristocratic hobby in cold climates and as a child of affluence I’ve been in skates as long as I’ve been in dancing shoes.

Penny: Really?! Are there any other hidden talents you haven’t told me about?

She asks both teasingly and curiously, her sense of wonder greatly perked at the discovery of her boyfriend’s ice-dancing prowess.

Whitley: Of course, there are. But where’s the fun in just telling you?

He chirps before skating away, Penny following close behind. Their conversation continues as they glide around the rink.

Penny: So how many are there?

Whitley: Of what?

Penny: Your talents I don’t know.

Whitley: Hmm, hard to say. There’s a lot of things you don’t know about me and I’m not too keen to share them yet.

Penny: Can you a least give me an estimate?

Whitley: And ruin the mystic of our relationship? Never!

He spouts in a fake dramatic tone, faux gobsmacked look, and his face and hand over his heart to aid his theatrics. Penny sighs and presses on.

Penny: Are you really that unwilling to tell, or do you just not trust me to know?

Whitley: What?

Penny: It’s okay if that’s why, I understand your reasoning. Just because we’ve grown close to each other doesn't mean that our trust in each other is absolute.

Whitley: Wait, that's not it at all!

He stops dead in his tracks, halting Penny in hers, and the two stand face-to-face on the ice.

Whitley: Look, Penny, there’s just-(sigh)-there’s a lot of things going on at home for right now and there’s a lot of history there I just…I just don’t think you’re ready to know just yet.

Penny: I…I know.

Whitley: I do trust you, Penny. I love being that I can be myself, my true self with you. And while I’d love to tell you…everything about me there’s just…

Whitley sighs, the weight of all the horrors in his life becoming unbearably heavy as he tries to speak. He takes her hands in his, holding them tenderly as he gazed directly onto her eyes.

Whitley: There are just some things that are better left unsaid for the time being.

Penny: I-I…uh..

Penny’s breath hitches and she feels a chill up her spine. She knew Whitley had his secrets, Penny had her own, but with all the understanding and kindness he’d given her, she couldn't help the cloud of guilt that hung over her head. And knowing now that it was only a matter of in when not if made that cloud hung more like a guillotine’s blade, the rope holding it up slowly being cut away by Whitley’s continued earnestly.

How ironic, the girl who could tell no lies was suddenly terrified by incoming truths.

Seeing the uncertainty on her face Whitley reaches up to caress one of her cheeks, concerned that he’d accidentally hit a sore spot for her.

Whitley: I’m sorry I shouldn’t have-

Penny: Hey, can you teach me some of your skating moves?!

Penny asks her face lit up with normal joyous enthusiasm, all hints of worry seemingly blasting themselves off her in a fraction of a second. Whitley is taken aback at the tone shift, usually, he’s the one to cut the conversation when things got too heavy but today Penny had beaten him to the punch.

Whitley: Really?

Penny: Yes! I really want to try the spins! They looked so fun!

Whitley: Well, those aren’t beginner-level tricks. Maybe we can try something simpler like a bunny hop.

Penny: Bunny hop? What’s that?!

Whitley demonstrates, doing a little hop from one place to another without losing balance. Penny’s immediately invested and soon their date turns into a short beginner ice skating lesson. The tense of their previous discussion dies down but the sting of it lingers as both try hard to push passed it. After a couple of hours on the rink, it's lunchtime. Penny turns in her skates, Joey assisting her again and tries to slide her a small slip of paper with his number on it, but Whitley’s quick hands and icy gaze dashes the attempted flirt before Penny can even notice. With that settled the couple considered their options, Penny volunteering the snack bar as the quick and easy pick. Whitley quickly rejects this on the ground that their hot chocolate was made with mostly hot water and the condiment dispenser looked like it hadn't been cleaned in weeks which Penny agrees with. So they go with the original plan, cart vendors. One of the things Soltais was prided on, especially when it came to tourism, was its status as a winter wonderland. Beautiful snow fell often, meaning there was always a chance for winter games and winter foods that the rest of the world only enjoyed in mass during their cold seasons. This extended to food vendors all over both cities, and with it being lunchtime Penny and Whitley don’t have to go far to find some. Carts serving mini meat pies, hot sandwiches, soups, and many more warm delights were common places in parks and shopping areas in Mantle. And being in the lower city on a weekend meant some interesting vendors could be found. Foreign vendors from all over the globe would petal their offerings around heavily populated areas in both but Mantle’s were known for being both convenient and inexpensive without a loss in taste.

With no lack of options, Penny and Whitley wander for a moment, searching for something good to eat. In their searching, the cries of one particular vendor catches Penny’s attention.

Vendor: Corn Dog! Nice Thick, Hot, and Cheesy Mistrial Style Corn Doges!

He cries, Penny looks over at his setup and is a little surprised. It’s larger than the normal hotdog stands, with a pot of batter and a fryer built into it along with a session for toppings which themselves are unusual. Sliced potatoes, crushed-up spicy chips, even corn cereal and sugar. It’s only when the next person in line for the stand orders does Penny understands the big difference between this corn dog and a regular one as the vendor reaches into the small refrigerator and pulls out two long chopsticks both skewered with half with a beef sausage and half mozzarella cheese. After the vendor dunks the skewers into the batter and spins them around to gather up a good coat, he drops them right into the boiling fry oil. The smell the frying gives off is oddly sweet, almost like a donut, which draws Penny in even more. Once the pair is done cooking the vendor pulls them out and places them on paper serving boats before sprinkling on sugar and spraying on lines of ketchup and mustard. The sight is mouth-watering, and the very easily excitable Penny can’t help but Whitley over to share her discovery. Whitley is…less than eager about her findings, he hadn’t really had junk food in years and honestly was too well-versed in nutrition to actively seek it out. But the smell coming off the stand was delightful, and he was already breaking many of his father’s rules just by being here, so what’s the harm in having a little treat?

They get in line and order two, one regular and one with potatoes, and sit down at a nearby bench to eat. Penny takes the original style while Whitley has the potato fried, as per usual Penny blows on her to cool it before her excitement and takes a premature bite. It’s hot, crunchy, and gooey as her teeth break through the crust and into the melted cheese underneath. The condiments give it a multilayered undertone as the sugar combines with the tangy ketchup and mustard. It’s a wonderful flavor mix, dancing on Penny’s tongue as she buffs and puffs to cool it down before swallowing. Hungry and entranced by Penny’s display of enjoyment Whitley also takes a hesitant bite. At first, there’s an odd sense of nostalgia as his taste buds are hit with a familiar flavor. It’s potato fritters, something his mother would sneak him and his sisters when they went out with her father before he became too ill to get out of bed. It’s a comforting flavor that is only amplified by the cheese and condiments. As they eat, Penny accidentally gets a nice cheese stretch going as she pulls back from a bite. Intrigued she pulls it further away only for the stringy cheese to stretch longer and longer. The feat amuses her greatly and she turns to show Whitley the silly situation she’s in.

Penny: Hmm!

She mutters, holding the other end of the cheese rope in her mouth while holding the source in Whitley’s face to see. Whitley chuckles at the ridiculous mess she’s made then without even two seconds of thought he bites off the other end from the corndog and sucks the string of cheese into his mouth. Now connected to her by a thin thread of mozzarella Whitley immediately started eating the cheese, carefully gnawing so the string wouldn't break as he got closer and closer to Penny’s mouth. Said girl is completely stunned by yet another bold move from her boyfriend, only regaining her sense when his lips are only centimeters from touching hers. Once out of her trance, Penny bites down hard, cuts the string from her end, and slurs up the remaining cheese. Whitley smirked at her shyness and finished off the rest of his half of the string before continuing to eat his corn dog.

Once lunch is over, they play in the snow for a bit. Penny rolls up big balls of snow for the snowman while Whitley gathers sticks and stones to decorate it. He smoothes out some of the shapes while Penny stacks the snow and they put the face on together. The first is a nicely made traditional snowman, minus the black top hat, festive scarf, and carrot nose.

Whitley: And he’s done. Not too bad for a locally sourced snowman if I do say so myself.

Penny: He looks so good, there’s hardly any big lumps or cracks in him either!

Whitley: You're welcome, smoothing him out without damaging his structure wasn’t easy but I think he was worth the effort.

Penny: Thank you for your contribution, Whitley, I really appreciate it. Now what do we name him?

Whitley: I’m not sure, mind throwing out some suggestions?

Penny: Hmm.

Penny thinks for a moment, names were a very subjective topic. The standard changes depending on what was being named. Animals could be named after people, food, and objects due to being living creatures but objects were significantly less emotionally precious to be given such monikers. Most often an object is named in relation to what it is. Racking her brain for everything snow-related, Penny comes up with a short list of possible names.

Penny: Snowdrop?

Whitley: That’s a little too feminine for a snowman.

Penny: Snowburg?

Whitley: I believe that’s the name of festive festive-themed glass workshop.

Penny: Snowdust?

Whitley: That’s the street name of at least three different illegal substances.

Penny: Oh.

Penny pauses again, trying her hardest to come up with something suitable for the lovely snow pal she’d created with her beloved. It had to be something memorable to commemorate the moment so she expanded her perimeters. And after several moments of silent contemplation, Penny finally decides what to name the snowman.

Penny: How about…. Lord Snowington!

She announces, proud of her choice as her boyfriend looks at her completely bewildered by her name choice.

Whitley..., Excuse me, could you repeat that?

Penny: His name is Lord Snowington!

Whitley: And what spurred this name into being?

Penny: Well, he’d made of snow but very well-crafted, so I gave him the Lord title and added the ington on as it’s commonly associated with people of wealth and higher standing.

She explains. Whitley takes a moment to absorb this information and finds himself laughing at Penny’s absurd reasoning. It was so on theme for her to use such sound logic in the most bizarre ways.

Whitley: I see. (chuckles) Well Lord Snowington it is then!

With that, their creation is dubbed Lord Snowington, and the pair soon decide he needs a companion. Unfortunately, by the time they begin building the second one a group of young teenagers, most like middle schoolers, have taken notice of their work and aim to ruin the fun. Without prompting one throws a snowball directly at the snowman’s head, only to be intercepted by Penny’s incredible speed.

Penny; Hey! Leave our snowman alone.

She shouts, holding the attempted means of snow destruction in her hand. The malicious juveniles take her stance as a challenge and quickly start gathering up snow.

Whitley: Looks like they want a fight.

Penny: I can see that, are you okay with engaging in light combat?

Whitley: Well, I haven’t thrown a snowball in years, but I wouldn’t mind giving it a try. Besides they’ve disrespected Lord Snowington, and that can’t stand.

Penny: Okay, then get ready for battle!

She cries before digging down to the ground and making her own snow ammunition. Penny had always wanted to have a snowball fight and she wasn’t gonna waste the chance to cut losses. Soon it’s an all-out war! The middle schoolers start hurling snowballs at the couple, their aim isn’t the best and their form is clumsy but they’re giving it their all. Despite being outnumbered both Penny and Whitley are quick-footed and coordinated enough to dodge the onslaught. When the opportunity to strike back comes Penny stands firm with direct attacks, throwing snowballs at those closest by while she guards Lord Snowington. Whitley takes a stealthier approach, compacting his snowballs to be steadier and aiming for weak points like stomach and legs to trip up their already messy formation.

In the end, the middle schoolers admit defeat and take off, Lord Snowington still standing in the aftermath. By the time Whitley has to get going they’ve made a little snow family, Lord Snowington Lady Snowington, their daughter Valley, and their pet snow bunny Carrot. Penny waves their snow friends goodbye as they leave the park, hoping they might last long enough to see again the next time she patrols the area. As they walk back to the station Whitley feels a wave of fatigue washes over him, all the physical activity draining the commonly sedentary young man. It’s been so long since he’d had that much fun while being so active his usual sluggishness is replaced by a more fulfilled sense of tiredness. Still, his body cries for rest and yawns, Whitley reaching up to cover his mouth on reflex only to be met by the fabric of his mask over his skin. Penny giggles at his clumsy moment and Whitley responds by playfully pinching her cheek as they continue walking.

This was bliss to him, being fun and silly with someone who loved and cared for him. Though it did make going back up even harder, sometimes just looking at her made Whitley want to stay and never look back. But he knew the consequences that would bring, and he had goals to fulfill before he could truly act as he wished.

Whitley: Just a little longer. Two more years at the most and less than that if I can find a big enough weak point to exploit until I’m of age.

Whitley muses as he bids Penny farewell before walking into the train station. He looks back once before going through the entrance, being graced with the view of Penny still waving him goodbye, an innocent smile bright on her face and eyes full of warmth. What a shame that she fell for someone like him, a person tangled up in a world so bleak it was eating him alive. What would she think of him if she knew the things he’d witnessed? How would she see him if she knew of the monsters in his company more often than not? What would she do if she knew what he was willing to do for his freedom and how much he’d already done for it? Whitley didn’t know but deep down he was sure that the less she knew of his true nature the better.

Whitley: Hopefully I can keep this clean enough to stay with her. Getting blood on those soft hands would be too cruel.

He thinks, marching towards the platform for his train, apathetic towards his departure back to the he he calls home. Still, the lingering scent of Penny on his clothes and the warmth her visage gave him was enough to keep him sane. He’d call her again tonight and the next morning, missing her every second until they met again. It was a torturous cycle but far kinder than any other he’d experienced. And for Whitley, that was more than enough.

#rwby fanfiction #fanfic #penny polendina #rwby #beta testers #whitley schnee #fanfiction #angst #cute #sorry it took a while #this year has been nuts #broken machines

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