"Lady Emilia, we will be arriving at the port short a few minutes." The voice of Rem filtered in through the closed door of the cabin. No response was given, and non was needed. Rem had walked away as soon as she said this, and Emilia didn't even care to respond.
That, in and of itself, worried Puck a little. Emilia was a kind person, very kind. So much so that Puck had never seen her mad at anyone. She didn't even hate or get mad at the people who belittled or insulted her due to how she looks. Puck was fairly certain that Emilia wasn't even mad at Ram. Just extremely hurt.
The worst thing about it was that Puck didn't know how to deal with this. Emilia had been sad in the past when she was discriminated for her looks, but she always bounced back around with some prodding. This time however, when Puck had made his jokes and quips, there was no Emilia's wonderful smile. No light chuckle. Emilia face had stayed the same through it all as she stared out the window.
"Hey, Lia, I think we should call Ozpin and reschedule. We still have five more days until initiation so we have enough time until then to get you feeling better. Besides, We don't want to look bad for the Headmaster, right?" Puck weakly offered. Emilia meekly shook her head in return. Moving out of her seat, she moved toward the shower of her cabin room.
Puck sighed as he disappeared from existence. Going to Emilia but not seeing anything. He knew a girl liked her Privacy so he intended to keep her Privacy away from his eyes and ears. Besides, it would be bad to see his daughter naked.
Emilia felt strange, and she didn't know what it was. She was the one who asked Ram for her opinion, right? She had also given her honest answer to her question. Even if it was a little rude how she put it, but it was her honest opinion and that's what Emilia had wanted, right? So why did her heart feel like it was being stabbed with a thousand needles? She would have asked Puck, but he would tell her how unhealthy that would be to feel this. He would most likely freak out and force her to go to the hospital. So she kept her mouth shut.
The feel of the cold shower on her head didn't even effect her. It felt as cold as she did right now yet strangely enough, it felt as good as a hot shower. Except this felt more comforting. Maybe it was due to her being an ice user that she was like this. That didn't make sense though since she had never felt like this before.
This was not despair. Despair felt cold too, but despair felt like you had lost everything in the world. She had felt that when she had woken up to this changed world 13 years ago. She also felt it through the trials and when she had gotten her memories back. All those times she felt despair. The only reason she even pulled through was that Puck was with her throughout all of this.
This felt different though. Like she was done with everything. A heavy weight pulling her heart and chest into a greater abyss. A black hole sucking in her body and crushing it.
She felt like dying.
Eyes widening, she slapped her cheeks. Such horrible thoughts shouldn't be allowed to be in her head. Turning up the heat, she felt the water sting her skin.
A few minutes later, Emilia stepped out of the shower. She looked cleaner and the tear marks were gone. She had on her regular white and purple clothing that she wore when she went out for… anything really. She really needed to change her wardrobe. All she had were silk dresses. And the Royal attire, which she was wearing.
"Feeling Better Lia?" Puck asked worriedly as he floated out from inside Emilia hair. His face contorted in a look of worry.
Emilia smiled. Puck must have been worried about her. Of course he would, he had been with her most of her life, so it was no wonder he would be worried for her. Even if he wasn't appearing as often as he had in the past, he was still there for her. Through everything, she knew he will always be here with her. That's what family was for, right? "Yeah, I'm better now Puck. There's no need to worry about me now."
"Are you sure Lia? You still look pale. I say we give The Headmaster a call and reschedule." Puck insisted. Really, she may look better right now, but who knows if and when she will break down again. It was worrying and he will not let anyone won't see his Daughter in this weakened state.
"Seriously, Puck, don't worry so much! I was just a little shocked with how Ram responded! I'm fine." Emilia reassured. Her smile was still on her face and Puck was able to see through it. Lia was never good at hiding her true emotions. She was too honest, a problem that she needed to fix before the Royal Selection ended. But for now it was a godsend she hadn't learned to.
"Lia, I know you're lying. Please, just take the rest of the day off." Puck suggested.
"Don't worry Puck. As I said, I'm fine. I just needed a shower!" Emilia attempted to wave off Pucks worry as she waved her hands around. She went to her suit case and pulled out the handle. She still remembered the day these didn't exist and you needed to pack everything in a bag or basket. This was much more easier than that, and made it easier on her body. Oh how she missed her home.
The feeling was back.
Shaking her head before it could over power her, she headed for the door intending to wait in the common area as the ship landed. Maybe if she tried to mingle with the rest of the crew it would help this mood shift. Before she could grab the door nob though, it was frozen over.
"Emilia, you need to rest. I won't let you out until you agree that you will cancel the meeting, find out where you're staying and grab some rest." Puck commanded with no playfulness in his voice.
"Puck, I said I'm fine. So please let me out. I need to grab Rem and… Ram before we dock. We have no time to waste." Emilia tried reasoning as she kept her body facing the door. Puck stood his ground.
"We both know your not fine Emilia. I know it will be hard, but you are going to Call Ozpin and res-"
"Puck. I don't want to cancel. I know if I stay alone and rest any longer I'm going to break!" Emilia had slowly raised her voice as she said this. "This feeling in my chest won't go away! And if I don't distract myself from this feeling, I know it will grow to be unbearable!"
A silence took over the room. Emilia had never raised her voice at Puck in all 13 years they have been together. Sure, she would higher her voice and pull on his ear whenever he teased her too much, but to yell? She had not once, ever, even came close to that. To say Puck was shocked would be an understatement. It hurt him a little that she was acting like this. But he didn't blame her. He directed all his anger at the filthy demon.
Emilia was faring no better on her side. She had not once yelled at Puck, and she hadn't meant to this time. She don't know what over came her, but she hated it. She hated how she couldn't keep it in. She hated how she let it out on Puck, someone she considered her family. She hated this feeling in her chest.
She hated herself.
'STOP'
"Lia… I know what she said might've been hard on you, but you need to calm down and rest. Please. I'm worried about you." Puck said, trying his best to sound comforting. He was quick to piece together what was wrong with Emilia. He would have to be completely brain dead if he couldn't see it.
Emilia just turned around, her smile managing to come off more forced. "Puck, I want to do this. Please. I'm not going to rest until I finish this meeting. Then I will do whatever you ask of me until initiation." Emilia begged, one last time. This conversation having exhausted her more than it should have.
Puck remained silent. He was 100% against the idea of Emilia running around like this. It would only put a strain on her body and mind. Especially if she was going to a meeting that could potentially break her down. From what he has seen of Ozpin already, he was sure to be a pain in the ass.
"T minus 1 minute until we arrive in Vale. All passengers, please stay seated until touch down and move away from the doors…" a voice over the intercom said, signaling the landing was about to commence. Emilia glanced back at Puck, her eyes begging her to left him go.
"Please…" Emilia asked one last time. Her pleading voice breaking the heart of Puck. He knew he was going to regret the decision to let her continue on, but with a elongated sigh, Puck relented.
"Fine." Emilia's smile shined with gratitude, but before she could say anything else, Puck continued. "But at the first sign of sourness, I will confine you in ice and have Rem and Ram carry you to bed!"
Emilia couldn't help but laugh. It was weird how one minute Puck could go from this serious caretaker to joking around… he was joking, right? She didn't know. But she responded, "Thank you Puck. I know nothing bad could happen from this." She said half heartedly.
She wasn't lying, but wasn't telling the truth either. She didn't know how this would end. Now that she thought about it, why did Ozpin want to see her? He could just meet her when she got there or have someone escort her to her dorm. Was it that important that he wanted to see her immiedetly? Maybe it was her Canadidate status.
Puck had melted the frozen door, allowing for Emilia to easily head to the exit point of the ship. As Emilia grabbed her suitcase, she gave another quick Thank you to Puck, who just went inside her hair, making his essence disappear. As she walked the halls leading to the exit, she couldn't help but feel some form of angst. As much as she tried, she couldn't shake the feeling of Ram's words in her head. Once again, the feeling came back, and it was stronger than before. How Ram had told her that she was making a mistake and putting the lives of all other students, and passengers for that matter, at risk just by being here hurt her. The worst part of it was that she knew it was true.
She herself, as much as she didn't want to admit it, was trying to escape the Cult. The screams and yells of the Villagers getting slaughtered was still clearly in her mind. It was engraved there and it didn't seem to be going away for a long time. The dagger of the Cult sticking all the to her mind, even as far as when she was a kid when they killed everyone in her Village.
They would never leave her alone, and she knew this for a fact. No matter where she ran, no matter where she would hide; they will find her. There was no escaping the fate that was bestowed upon her by the Gods.
The feeling in her chest gripped tighter than a noose around a poor souls neck. She felt the cold hands of a higher unseen being fiddling around with her heart and life, adamant to make her continue libing the hell that was her life. Filling her up to the brim with sadness and guilt. Yet she did not cry, for that was not her place. If a God wished her to suffer through her life with the memories of this, then why should she complain? She was gifted with the chance at life. That's all she could be grateful for.
She entered the waiting area, her hearts still gripped with remorse, adamant to find a way to relieve this pain. She looked left and right, searching for an excuse. Her eyes soon came across a comedic sight.
Ram and Rem, two of the most diligent (heh) individuals she had came to know, stood near the hanger door, hands behind their backs as they waited for her arrival most likely. That was not the comedic sight though. A group of tourists who were more than likely coming back from a vacation in Lugnica were snapping pictures of Ram and Rem. Rem having a calm look upon her features, letting it happen, but Ram was doing poses, flashing from a pure look of disgust, to a pure look of happiness. It was happening so quick that it was a surprise that the tourists were even getting steady shots.
So quick was the atmosphere change, that as Emilia walked closer, she couldn't help but, once again, laughing. This by no means washed away the feeling that gripped her heart so coldly, but it did help relieve it slightly.
Quick to notice the laughter, Ram stopped her posing as she and Rem drew closer. Having had her fill, Emilia's laughter relaxed itself to slight chuckle's here and there. While Rem stood a few feet back, Ram continued forward until she stood a good 5 feet from her. The tourists were kind enough to not continue taking pictures, having sensed the change in atmosphere.
As Emilia and Ram stared off, Emilia nervously twitching and playing with her fingers. Emilia was too beat up to really say anything, much less have a staring contest with the person who had out her in the state she was now. Not that it was Ram's fault in Emilia's mind. She did ask for her to give the honest answer.
Without warning or any prompting, Ram grab the seems of her skirt and gave a deem bow. "My sincerest apologies Lady Emilia, it seems I have acted out of my own desires. I will make efforts to make sure this never happens again." Ram apologized.
So off guard a from the sudden bow and apologies coming from Ram, that Emilia couldn't help but feel flustered. Waving her hands back and forth, she tried to correct Ram. "No, no! It was my fault to begin with! I shouldn't have left Roswaal domain without deeper consideration in my position in all of this! I should be the one apologizing!"
Not leaving her position in bowing, Ram waited. It had taken Emilia a good while for her to realize why Ram was still bowing, but when she had, Emilia had a slight feeling of frustration in her chest. She really didn't want to, but knowing how these two acted, Ram wouldn't leave until her say so. So, with a stomp and a huff, Emilia finished. "I forgive you, please rise Ram."
"Thank you Lady Emilia." Ram concluded before taking two steps back, and another bow, left to be near her sister. Ram didn't waste time in continuing her posing.
During the exchange, Emilia's feelings continued to sway from bad to worse. While it was nice for Ram to apologize to her, that very thing just nailed in the coffin that they weren't friends. In her eyes, if Ram truly felt regret for the words she had spoken and almost discriminating her, then she would have apologized for being rude. Ram would have talked to her about it, and not shy away from it with a apology the likes of which a true maid would be proud of.
It stung a bit more than it should, but all Emilia could do was smile and accept it, burying the growing pain with other thoughts. A slight shake of the hanger shook her out of her morbid thoughts.
"All passengers, please move away from the hanger doors. Thank you for flying…" and with that, the flight was done. The hanger doors opened, and as the sun filtered through the hanger doors, Emilia finally got to see the city she had read about in her books before coming here.
A series of building welcomed her view. Short 4 story building, reminiscent yet completely different from the ones of the Capital of Lugnica stood before her. Covered in blue and white paint, signaling Mantle colors made them stand out from the rest of her Capital. Stair ways on the sides of these complexes, which purpose was most likely for ease of mobility in and out of the building stood on its side.
Making her way out of the Hanger, Ram and Rem following a short ways behind, Emilia got a better look around. Only one side had these complexes, while the other faced the sea. A tower stood in the middle of everything as if he ships landed. It wasn't all that lackluster though, in the distance, behind the complexes, stood massive towers. Each one of them shining and reflecting the surrounding sky. Emilia could barely contain her excitement at all of this.
"We should move along, Lia. While your gawking is cute, I want this meeting to be over with." Puck said in her head, causing her to jump in alarm. It wasn't unnatural for Puck to do this, but this situation just made it a little more surprising.
"You're right, Thank You Puck." Emilia responded, taking one last look at the scenery before walking in a random direction. Roswaal had given her instructions that the Air-Ship that would take students to the Main Campus would be marked 42. So all she had to do was walk around until she saw 42.
The search hadn't lasted long, for as soon as she thought that, she heard a loud yell.
"What the hell do you mean I'm five days early!?"
Emilia turned to look as she saw a very rough looking teen yelling at a guard, waving around his ID. A large 42 hung on the Air Ships Cockpit.
"Another student, huh…" Emilia mumbled out. He looked more or less distressed. It would be a problem if he continued to bother the Guard like so...
'Lia, don't help him.' Puck whispered in her head.
"I'm not, I was just going to get permission to board and do just that."
'Lia, I know you. I know enough to know you're going to help him on board.'
"I said I wasn't going to."
'Lia…'
"I'M NOT"
"What the hell do you mean I'm five days to early!?"
Natsuki Subaru wasn't having one of the most finest of days. Between dealing with a hang over and running scared shitless from a group trying to be the Black version of the KKK, it wasn't wonderful. He had to deal with Guards at the Gate pestering him why he had left, and came back with a bag and equipment. Apparently there was high criminal activity lately and they were accusing him of trying to smuggle in drugs or something. Subaru couldn't really care to remember the fine details as it just brought him more of a headache.
After dealing with that, he had been let in, and immiedetly headed for the Ship Yard (or as he liked to call it Air Port). That's where another obstacle faced him.
Security was tightened on the School Grounds for some strange reason and now all students or guests had to be on a stupid list to be let in. No problem right? He was a would be student, and initiation was today, so what was gonna happen?
"The Initiation is in five days Sir."
Well Jiminy Cricket, that's sure is the opposite of "Today's the day" isn't it? And what would any self respecting hungover teen would do in this situation?
Complain.
"WHAT!!!???"
The guard didn't even flinch. It was like he was immune to loud noises, or he was just expecting this. He can't smell the Alcohol, can he?
"My calendar said it was today! I used up all my cash so I could get to this dang town on time! What do you mean I'm five days early!?" Subaru yelled, waving his hands in the air as he exaggerated the situation.
"Exactly as I said sir. The initiation process will be held in five days from now. Until then, I can't let you on." The guard said, his stone cold face and voice not moving at all as he shifted his position a little. "Orders are orders."
"Waaaah! Why would this even be a thing!? Wouldn't it make the process of lifting off longer!?" Subaru questioned, trying to find a reason why this misfortune had fallen onto him.
"That is true sir, but with new orders from above, Security has tightened due reasons I am not permitted to speak aloud at the current time."
"Aw!? Why you got to be like that Mr. Guard? I'm guessing there is no way I can convince you to let me in then?" Subaru winked at him, a sly smile falling in place as he pulled some change out. Subaru wasn't really being serious. It was more of a comedic act if anything.
The Guard was sharp enough and had a solid enough funny bone to get the joke, but didn't play along. "No Sir. You're just going to have to wait until the day of the initiation to commence to enter school grounds."
Usually, Subaru would have pestered him more. Get to know the guy a little, but today was not a good day, and he was in a rather foul mood already, so he just decided to do one last tease on the probably already irritated guard.
"Ha. Fine, be like that, but remember, you sent a poor teenager to the streets, all alone without anyone to care for him!" Subaru said as he acted to cry. Subaru had made it off the platform by the time he finished acting. He needed find out what he was going to do next with no money, as with no money, meant another night on the bench and another person thinking he was a corpse. While that was an interesting moment in this city, his life even, it was still bad if there was going to be a chance he was going to gain more attention. Imagine it,; each day woken up by a new cast of Beacon Students. He would become infamous for sleeping on the streets if they recognized him at school.
Plus he needed a shower.
He was but a few feet a way from the platform, about to put his ID away, when suddenly he felt a strong pull on his arm. A sudden girly squeal came from his throat as he was dragged along by a unknown individual back towards Beacons Air Ship.
"There you were! I was looking all over for you!" A girly voice said as hair of Silver clouded his vision. They were quickly nearing the Guard he had toyed with not one minute ago. "You don't know how worried I was! Don't run off like that again, you here?"
"Halt!" The guard wasn't dumb enough not to recognize him seeing as it had literally been one minute since they left each other, and it seemed that this was becoming a bother for him, if his eyes and body language were anything to go by. "Kid, I swear to god you're persistent. You and your little friend are not getting on this ship."
"Why is that?" The girl asked curiously, as she put her index finger on her chin, turning her head slightly. Subaru couldn't get a good look at her face, but he could see that she wore an assortment of white and purple, matching her silver hair. "I was specifically told to board Air Ship 42. I'm sure I'm in the right area."
"Really? And who told you this?" The Guard questioned, his voice filled irritation. "It wouldn't have been the headmaster would it?"
"Yes! Mr. Ozpin instructed me to do just that!" The Girl said. She didn't seem to be lying either, by the way she was acting. If anything, she seemed to be dead serious as she said that. For a girl who was trying to cover for him, that was a weird way to talk. Maybe he was just a really good liar.
Rolling his eyes, the Guard held out his hand. "Alright, if you're so sure that you're supposed to be here, let me see your ID." The Guard commanded. Instead of doing what he said, she seemed confused for a second, before snapping her fingers and reaching into he pocket, showing him a pendant instead of a ID.
"I haven't received my Remnant ID yet, so hope this will be sufficient for now?" The girl said, as she seemed, again, completely serious.
Both Subaru and the Guard gawked in shock. Both for different reasons. Subaru being shocked at the stupidity of the situation. This girl was, quite literally, was trying to enter this prestigious school with a freaking pendant, and was dead serious with it too. The Guard was just baffled that the brat in front of him would pull this kind of bull crap with him. He might not be the sharpest Guard on the list, but to hell if he was stupid.
With a look of complete seriousness, he made to reach for the pendant, fully intent on smashing it. The only problem being that as soon as he was about to touch her, a shield resembling snowflakes appeared, restricting him from doing what he wanted. A backlash of cool air also pushed him back , falling on his back not entirely ready for that comeback.
The Guard did his best to stay level headed though as he got up. It was insulting to his pride that he got caught off guard with such an attack. Never mind being something he had never seen before, it was unacceptable to be put down like that.
Also, he knew #2 was going to tease the hell out of him later for this.
Walking over to the girl, her eyes having been covered by her bangs since he got pushed down, #1 was fully intent on laying it down that this was not a game. He would not be fooled letting two teens in when he was specifically tasked with not letting anyone in.
Well, that had been the plan, but as he was suddenly jerked back by #2, that put things on hold. With a quick exchange of words, a disbelieving look on #1 face and a couple of taps on his scroll, #1 couldn't help but be equally shocked and fearful.
Subaru, in the meantime, had tried to convince the girl that this wouldn't work and that while he was thankful for her trying on his behalf, they should just give up. It seemed his words fell on deaf ears though as she didn't even acknowledge any of his words. So unresponsive to his pleas, that she hadn't even let go of his track suit. Which he noticed that she was holding onto tightly.
So convinced that they were going to fail, that when #1 came to stand in front of him, Subaru knew what he was going to say. "Mam, I don't know what this filth has paid you to do this, but please leave my sight immediately." Or something like that.
Subaru couldn't have been more wrong.
As soon as #1 came back, followed closely by another guard, #1 brought his hands to his head, and saluted. Momentarily baffled, Subaru watched as this complete 180 demonstration in personality continued. "My Lady! I am terrible sorry for the disrespect I have shown you and your colleague! Please forgive my insubordination!" With that, he gave a deep bow.
Subaru didn't know how to respond to this. It was so out of nowhere, even for him, that it came off as a shock. Luckily, he didn't need to do anything as the girl in front of him seemed to understand the sudden change in behavior, before responding with "Its fine, please excuse us."
With that, Subaru and the Girl passed by the two guards, one patting the others back. So baffled at these turn of events, it had taken Subaru a good minute to regain his composure and when he did, all he could say was "What the f-"
He wasn't given a chance to finish that as the girl turned around, with a glare sharp enough to shut him up. This glare had come with the benefit of him finally able to see her face. It was hard not to marvel at how she beautiful she was and that was under selling it. Small nose, medium sized lips, puffy but sharp cheeks, purple eyes that matched her white hair, also being the theme of her outfit. It was hard not to compare her to a goddess. If he hadn't had the experiences he had, then he probably would have fallen for her right then and there.
So lost in her beauty, he almost missed what she said.
"Why are you staring at me like that?" She questioned. Doing her best to look tough. For the most part it worked, but Subaru was the master at that. No one could fool him… except mostly everyone.
Smiling nervously, Subaru couldn't help but look away from her. "Eh? No reason in particular, but thank you, you're a lifesaver." In truth, now that Subaru knew he was five days early, he didn't really all that care for getting in. Sure, this would most likely waste some time until Initiation, like he wanted, but this just bit into the time he could be searching for a place to stay. No doubt a homeless shelter was somewhere in town… those existed in this world, right?
She was suddenly in his face, her glare still stuck on her face. Subaru couldn't help for freak out a little inside. He may have prior experience with women (one), but this didn't mean he was entirely comfortable with her getting so close to him. Her stare lasted a little over five seconds before her face broke into one of worry. As she backed up, she put her hand to her mouth. "Oh no. I didn't help you get in when you didn't want to, did I?" She asked, appearing upset when she said this. She was good at guessing what he thought at least.
"No, No! I wanted to get in! This is a much needed help! I was just wondering how I should repay you!" Subaru said, lying his way through. Truthfully, he sucked at lying, not that he would admit it. To remedy this he usually danced around the truth with his acting.
The Girls face was quick to change from worry to relief, having bought his lie. Sighing in relief, she looked up at him. She wasn't that shorter than him, but she still needed to look a little up to see eye to eye. "That's a relief. You don't need to repay me though. This was for my own benefit." To this, Subaru blinked in confusion. Before he could speak up on his confusion, She continued. "I demand information out of you. Where is the headmaster office?"
Apparently she was under the misconception that he had any idea where anything was. Hadn't she listened in on the conversation before helping him? Did she even think this through? "I'm sorry, but this is my first time visiting the campus too. Maybe a Guard could tell you?" Subaru offered.
She didn't seem that upset at this response, almost like she was expecting this answer from him. "That's fine. I had a feeling this would happen. Anyways, I need to see if any of the guards will tell me the location. Next time be sure to properly check the dates of important meetings. It would be worrisome if I ran into you trying to enter another five days early. Anyways, have fun exploring the campus." With that, the girl turned to leave.
She talked fast, Subaru would give her that, but he also could keep up. He dealt with kids for a year and a half at a orphanage. He knew fast when he gave a hyperactive kid caffeine.
As she got farther ahead, he started a slow jog up to her, intent with continuing spending time with the person who had helped him. Make a friend if he can. This was someone he might be close to for the next four years, might as well start now. Plus he wanted to know what was up with the guard.
"Hey! Wait up!"
"Yes? What do you need? I have to find a Guard before we land so I know where to go."
"Yeah, but you can find them at the entrance when we land. It's not that hard. Anyways, I want to know if you want to hang out while we wait to land?" Subaru said, hoping she would agree. If he had learned anything in the time he spent traveling the world, being alone was… lonely.
She seemed to consider this for a minute, before she nodded her head. "Fine, but don't try anything funny. I know how to fight." She threatened. Subaru only hunched over a little
"What do you take me for, a delinquent? I wouldn't assault someone who helped me." Subaru expressed, pointing that out. He straightened his back as they continued to walk, heading for one of the higher levels of the Air Ship. "So, what was that back there? Why did the Guard suddenly bow?" Subaru questioned, quick to ask what was on his mind.
"It might have been due to my current status in society. Although, I never saw anyone act like that towards me before." The girl responded.
"I'm guessing you're a rich girl then? It would explain the fancy clothes." He continued questioning.
"You could say that. But it's more along the lines of being in high class society rather than being rich or poor." She said, trying to correct him.
"Either way, at least you don't act snobby like other rich girls." He didn't understand what she just said, well fully. His head still hurt.
"Thank you?"
"No problem. So, why did you decide to come to Beacon? From the way you make it sound, you could be sleeping in a comfortable bed with some nice maids serving you breakfast right about now."
"That is the opposite of what I wish for currently. I don't want to laze around while someone else takes care of me. I wish to explore and make new friends. I wish to learn how to fight to protect my people." Emilia responded, trying to dance around the truth of her Candidacy of the Heir of Lugnica. "Why do you wish to attend Beacon?"
Subaru seemed to think this over for a minute, a harried expression crossing his features for bit a brief second before a more relaxing look settled down. "I want to keep a promise to a friend."
"Really? What was the promise, if you don't mind me asking?" Emilia asked, intrigued.
"To save as many people as I can. That's all really. I thought that going to Beacon would help me with this while also earning me pay. This kills two birds with one stone."
"That's respectable of you. I wish my reasons were as pure as yours are." Emilia said, missing the expression that passed Subaru's face. He didn't pry into why she said that, but didn't let it go either.
"The way I see it, if you're trying to be a hunter, for whatever reason, you are a righteous person." Emilia looked at him, a quizzical expression adoring her features. At this, Subaru continued. "I see Hunters as hero's, no matter who they are. If they fight to protect and serve, why should they be considered bad guys? So even if your doing it for revenge or self satisfaction, you're still putting yourself on the line for others to live. I consider anyone why tries that good in my book."
When Emilia heard this, she felt a sudden shift in her heart. While the pain still ate at her, she was now calmer than before. This stranger had managed to lessen the burden that she carried, if just a little, in a matter of minutes of meeting each other.
They had made it to a staircase, leading to Deck 2. As they climbed, they continued the to chat. They soon made it to the second deck, and what awaited them was any ordinary hallway. Nothing spectacular besides the walls being made completely out of glass. Rails sat on both sides of the halls allowing audiences to lean on something and not smear the glass.
This was the best location to stay if they wanted to leave the ship as soon as it landed, while also giving them a view of the surrounding area. Subaru decided to voice this.
"I guess that would be fine. If what you say is true, then A Guard will be waiting for us when we land." Emilia stated. As they walked deeper into the hallway. This gave a good view of the city, at least to where they were able to see the tops of the smaller complexes.
With this, they waited to lift off and land.
Emilia couldn't help but feel like she was forgetting something though.
--
"Rem, Rem. I fear we may have been forgotten."
"Sister, Sister, what should we do about this?"
Outside of the Air-Ship, Rem and Ram watched as 42 slowly lifted off, a frown across their features yet both had different feelings about what was going on. On one side of the coin, Rem, had smelled the Witch as soon as she landed, and was deeply worried about their charge for if Emilia died, then she didn't know what Roswaal would do. On another hand, Ram felt worried, but not for Emilia's life. She felt worried about what they were going to do now that they were left behind. Ram considered trying to latch onto the outside of the Ship, but that would just endanger Rem if any Guards caught them.
"If only that self righteous prick had let us on, then we wouldn't be in the mess." Ram couldn't help but mumble. It wasn't only his fault, but they didn't have any proof that they were Emilia's maids. If only they had been a little faster when Emilia ran off, then maybe they would be on the Ship as they spoke.
"Sister, what should we do? Lady Emilia could be in danger. Should we try to board once again?" Rem offered. She seemed a little nervous with the smell of the Witch nearby. Of course Ram did too, but she wasn't going to admit to that. It would have been disgraceful.
"No, Rem. If Emilia wanted to help a poor boy and be alone with him, it's not our place to interfere." Ram replied, her voice blank as usual. "Instead I have a Idea. Lord Roswaal was kind enough to give us spending money for our trip here. I intend to make full use of this."
"But shouldn't we try save Emilia from the Cult?" Rem pushed, worried for failure of their mission.
"Emilia has Puck, I'm sure they'll be fine. Besides, I heard that Remnants food selection is vastly different from ours. I want you to learn some recipes for Roswaal." Ram said, making up an excuse to go out and eat.
"If you are certain, Dear Sister." With that they departed. Rem couldn't help but feel like she would regret this decision in the future.
--
"Ok, then have you at least tried out Ramen before?" Subaru asked.
"No, but I heard that while it's has flavor, it's really fattening. I've been restricted from trying it out." Emilia responded, as the barest hint of a smile formed on her lips. She was enjoying the company of this boy.
"Oh my god. Then how about cookies? You have to had cookies right!?"
"Indeed, I have eaten my fair share of cookies-" at this the Boy raised his hands into the air, "-non fattening of course." At this Subaru deflated. Emilia covered her mouth as a chuckle escaped her lips. The look on his face was priceless.
"Seriously, whoever is controlling your life sure is a buzz kill." Subaru said as he hunched his back, giving him a delinquent like look. "Why don't you ever argue against this? I say this is abuse to hold you back from having all things good!"
"It's not like it's doing me any harm not eating sweets, so I don't see the problem." She responded with a slight shrug. "Besides, I'm hardly what you would consider physically active, so it keeps me from gaining fat."
"Still, while you're at Beacon, I'm going to take you out to Vale and we are going to get all the sweets we can hold!" Subaru said as he fisted the air.
'Not if I can stop it' Puck whispered in her head.
"What do you say? This could be your chance to try all you want!"
"Maybe. I wouldn't want to upset him."
"Oh, so it's a he huh? I never heard of a boyfriend that is picky about what his girlfriend eats." Subaru said, misunderstanding what she said. Emilia didn't understand what a boyfriend is, but knew it had to do with something boy friend.
"He isn't picky, he just prefers that I chose wisely on what I eat." Emilia responded, a serene smile gracing her lips.
"Hm… I'd like to meet him someday. Maybe he can give me tips on how to cook?"
"I don't think that would be an issue. But he isn't the one that cooks. It's the maid at our mansion that cooks for us. Then He specifically chooses good from bad."
"See! He's picky! He chooses what he wants you to eat! You can't deny it now!" Subaru yelled in exasperation as he pointed at Emilia as they continued to walk. Currently they were headed to the giant tower in the middle of the school.
When they had arrived, they didn't expect the sprawling metropolis that it was. They had talked about what it would look like up close earlier, speculating what it would look like. Subaru had offered up that it would mostly be dorms on one side and classes on the other. Emilia had laid down that she believed that it was going to be a castle, where all dorms and classes where together.
They were both right in their own ways. First off was it's placement. In Subaru's words it was "On a f* cliff (Emilia scolded him for this)". The school had made full use of its natural defenses (like Vale had, yet Beacon refrained from using Walls in addition to its Natural Defenses). In addition to this palisade, a port was located at the bank of the bluff. This no doubt allowed for actual ships to dock there, and whoever the poor soul that departed there had to climb all the way up to Beacon.
Then came the unique layout of the Academy. While it was most definitely was a castle, to which Emilia had silently cheered, it was also served as one giant area for classrooms. Behind the Castle of Classrooms laid the dorms. It seemed that the dorms section had their own park, gladiator pit, and other oddities. If he could call it anything, it was an Academy City.
When they had entered the Castle area, they had been a little surprised to see 2nd, 3rd and 4th year students littering the grounds of the school, all out of uniform. Subaru had come to the conclusion that while incoming 1st years were prohibited from entering campus grounds, all the other years were allowed too. While there was several reasons the students would chose to stay during break, there was only one reasonable conclusion he could think of. It was to keep up with the rest of their age group.
"He really isn't! He rarely choses what I can't eat!" Emilia insisted, doing her best to defend Puck, who was chuckling with mild amusement as this meat shield chatted with his daughter. It wasn't doing any harm, and this conversation was calming down Emilia's frustration while also introducing her to somebody who might take a hit for her one day. A win-win in his eyes. "Besides! It sounds like you don't chose your food carefully enough! All you eat is junk!"
"Hey! You can't be nit-picky when you barely have enough money to buy broth!" Subaru argued back as he turned his pockets inside out. "See! It's a miracle that I even made it to Vale with this much!"
Emilia covered her mouth, "Oh no! I've been talking to a hobo!"
"I'm not a hobo!"
"This hobo might die if I don't intervene! I might have to lend him some Lien." Emilia said in mock worry.
"Now that you mention it, I might have slept on a bench or two on the way here. I probably contracted something from a rat…"
"I'm not sure what I should do? He seems to have a terrible look in his eye. He might try to hurt me…"
"I might have to if you can't feed me!" Subaru said lecherously, his hands opening and closing in a fluid motion.
Emilia couldn't help but laugh, followed soon by Subaru. After half a minute, Subaru calmed down and took note of the surrounding area. They were already at the The Green Tower.
"Well, I guess this is where we part for now. We never did introduce each other earlier, right?" Subaru said. As he scratched the back of his head, before getting into a Pose. "My name is Natsuki Subaru, broke beyond compare and currently looking for a job! Nice to meet you!" He said as he outstretched his hand. He had just mimicked a move that he had done 3 years ago, which hit him a little hard, but he ignored it.
Looking at his hand for a bit, she considered saying "Satella" but decided against it. It wouldn't be kind to lie to a new friend when he had kept her company for this long. It was also without a doubt a high chance that they will be seeing each other again. Grabbing his hand, he gave a shake.
"My names Emilia. Just Emilia." She responded, smiling in a friendly way. Subaru returned that smile.
"Emilia, huh? That name fits you. Well! I'll see you at initiation Emilia! I'm going to check out the rest of the campus!" Subaru said as he headed off.
"I like him." Said Puck in her head. She couldn't help but agree.
Emilia watched as he left, her smile bright on her face. She had made her first friend besides the others at Roswaal's mansion. She couldn't help the giddiness in her gut, that was once filled with the unknown stressful feeling she had earlier experienced. She was tremendously grateful that she had met him. Subaru had this aura about him that made it comfortable to talk to him. If all students were like that, she had no doubt this next year will be exciting and refreshing.
So lost in thought, she failed to notice the blonde haired woman that approached her. Or the tapping of her feet as she waited for Emilia to respond. Or how she started waving her wand in the air.
"Maybe I should take him up on his offer to try out food. What do you think Puck?" Emilia asked as she stared at where Subaru left.
"I wouldn't mind but be careful what you eat. I can't let you get fat on me." Puck said to which she responded "Of course."
"You better not start falling for this boy either, you understand?"
"I don't know what you're talking about, but I bet it's silly nonsense." Emilia responded, truly clueless.
Suddenly, as she turned to walk into the Tower, she realized something that shouldn't have been possible. Unless she was falling of course.
She couldn't feel the ground.
She unconsciously let out a squeal as she was turned around and set back down. Standing before her was an older woman. She looked to be in her mid thirties to early forties. A disgruntled scowl ruining her otherwise gorgeous face. She wore a white long-sleeved, pleated top that had a wide keyhole neckline and gauntlet cuffs that flare in pleats at the wrist. Her lower body was covered by a black high-waisted pencil skirt with bronze buttons and black-brown stockings. She wore Black Heels with Bronze lacing, making her taller than she already was.
And she was tall.
"I'm assuming you're Emilia?" The lady questioned, to which Emilia could only respond obtusely with a nod of her head. "Perfect. If you can show me your emblem as further proof, I can let you show you to The Headmaster." The Lady said, and as further prompting Emilia to hurry up, the Woman started to tap her feet.
Without missing a beat, Emilia pulled out the Emblem showing it to the Woman. Said woman looked closely at the Emblem, judging it's authenticity most likely. A sudden shift of her features occurred as the woman's scowl turned into a beautiful smile. Turning away from Emilia, the Woman motioned her to follow her. A kick from a transparent Puck jolted Emilia into action, following the lady.
As they entered, Emilia couldn't help but marvel at how different Remnants interiors compared to Lugnica's. It seemed like she had been doing that all day now that's she thought of it.
The inside of Tower was wide. A line of chairs faced the front desk, while said front desk had multiple individuals working tirelessly doing… something. She couldn't quite tell, for they spoke into a square box, which emitted a voice that belonged to another person no doubt. It seemed to be like a Giant scroll if she was to go by anything. The walls were lined with paintings of landscapes and occasional animals.
As she followed the lady, Emilia mentally prepared her legs for the stress they were about to feel when they climbed up the staircases. Most likely to the top of the Tower no doubt. But instead of that, the lady took them to an empty room. It's walls made of glass. It was really cramped.
Suddenly, when Emilia stepped in, the Lady pressed a button. A set of two metal doors closed and a shift in weight took place. It wasn't that different from lifting off in an Air-Ship, but softer. The lady decided to start a conversation as the device moved.
"Emilia, what do you think of the campus?" The lady asked, as a series of flashing lights illuminated the enclosed space. She seemed to be extremely curious of her answer.
"I think it's fantastic. The architecture and layout is remarkably different than that of Lugnica. I look forward to exploring the campus and the rest of Vale later." Emilia responded honestly if not a little awkwardly. Emilia couldn't help but feel nervous when around her.
"That's great to hear. Would you like a tour guide when you go out exploring later?"
"No, I'm alright. I tend to enjoy walks alone. Thank you for the offer Miss…"
Suddenly, the Ladies face seemed to turn downcast, making Emilia worried if she said something she shouldn't have, but calmed as quickly as it came. The lady turned to Emilia, a small smile on her face.
"It appears I have forgotten to introduce myself. I am Glynda Goodwitch, a teacher, and hopefully your teacher in the near future, at Beacon." Glynda introduced herself. Emilia followed suit, and Glynda just smiled at her. "It appears you have good manners. I look forward with working with you Emilia."
"Likewise." Emilia responded politely. She had a feeling that she was indeed going to see Goodwitch a lot from now on, so she needed to make good first impression. They sat in silence for awhile, until Emilia spoke up. "Mrs. Goodwitch? Do you know why Mr. Ozpin wanted to see me when I got here?"
"Ms. Goodwitch is fine. And to be completely honest, I'm not sure myself. I think he's just excited to have another magic user in the school. He does tend to get giddy at the prospect of non Aura students." Goodwitch responded.
"'Another'? Do you mean there is other Magic users attending Beacon?" Emilia was quite surprised at this little bit of news. The New Continent tended to stay away from The Four Kingdom's. While it wasn't unheard of for TNC residents to venture out or settle in The Four Kingdom's territory, it was a surprise that their would be Magic users among them that would willingly join a Academy to fight for them. Goodwitch looked at Emilia, slightly surprised.
"Of course! We have a number of students attending Beacon with knowledge of how to use magic. Not as much as Aura Users mind you, but still quite a number of them. There is even a couple of first years besides yourself entering Beacon this year." Goodwitch stated. "The fact that Ozpin has only requested to meet two Magic users this year speaks to how 'normal' it seems now. Though I am grateful that it has calmed down. Favoritism isn't something the Headmaster, or a teacher for that matter, must show."
"Only two? Who is the other Magic user?"
Goodwitch seemed surprised that Emilia had asked that question. "You don't know? They seemed to know you were coming. She went by the name-"
With a loud ding sound the doors opened up, interrupting Goodwitch who seemed to not mind at all. Emilia on the other hand did. If Magic Users were starting to become a common phenomenon, then who was so important that Ozpin would ask them to be there.
The ugly feeling was back again for some strange reason. Emilia was really getting mad at these feeling of hers. One minute, she is happy as all hell, then she feels like she needed to sleep forever. Her body didn't know what to feel, nor did her mind and it was driving her nuts.
Trying to ignore both feelings of curiosity and sadness, she walked behind Glynda as said woman Beaconed Emilia to follow her. Stepping out of the box, Emilia took notice that the room had changed.
The room had the same green tint as the room they were in previously, but the difference being that the room was round and obviously not on ground level. That little fact practically made Emilia's she drop. Outside the window, which almost surrounded them completely, was the whole campus. Small dots, no doubt other students, walked about.
This type of teleportation was something she would expect of Roswaal Mansion. Specifically the forbidden library, the room that could travel to any door in the mansion. That type of magic though was rare and she honestly knew one person with the ability to cast it. So the possibility of this being the case was unlikely. The Four Kingdom's were also more advanced than her continent, meaning it was likely a contraption that they made. She made a note to look into this further later.
"Amazing, isn't it?" A calm voice said beside her. Giving, yet again, another squeal, she turned to her left to look at the offending voice. Tall, cane in left hand, coffee mug in right, black suit and green scarf, and of course Gray hair. "A fully functioning school where students prefer to stay rather than go home during their break. Says a lot of the effort put in by both staff and students, don't you think?"
"Ozpin!" Emilia shuffled away. Not out of fear or anything, but the fact at how surprised she was. She hadn't even heard him walk up to her, unless he was there the whole time. Ozpin just took a sip of his coffee, unfazed by her actions.
"No need to fear me, just admiring the same view as you." Another sip. "Though I suppose this isn't the time to be doing that." He looked away from the window and headed for the desk in the middle of the room. Before sitting down, he motioned to the seat across from him. "Please, sit."
Nervously, she obeyed. After seating herself, Ozpin did the same. She noted that Goodwitch seemed to be a little behind Ozpin, her face blank, likely spacing out.
"I hope Ms. Goodwitch didn't give you a hard time on the way up here?" Ozpin started.
"Of course not! She was woman to talk to, although the conversation was a little short." Ozpin seemed to smile at that.
"Hmm, Usually students get bad impressions of her due to her strictness. Seems that she's having a good day." To this, Ozpin glanced at Glynda. She was still staring off, but she somehow seemed to be paying attention. Taking a sip of his coffee, he looked back to Emilia.
"Anyways, how have you enjoyed Beacons campus thus far?" Ozpin asked.
"Wonderful. The campus is much more neat and larger than I expected. The scenery is much more beautiful than I anticipated too! Though I do have to question the lack of barriers around the school." To that, Ozpin seemed to stop for a second, then continued to drink his coffee and setting it down. He looked Emilia straight in the eyes.
"You'll have to forgive my decision to keep the barriers away from Beacon. I know the possibility of Grimm attacks are there with there being no borders, but this is a Hunter school. If a student or teacher was unable to fend off a surprise Grimm Attack, what would that say about our teachings?" It was a rhetorical question, but Emilia could see his line of thinking. "Besides, our natural borders protect us from just that."
"I see…" She didn't necessarily agree with that decision, but she had no voice in the matter. "You seem to have high faith in the Students and Staff of Beacon."
"Indeed. I trust every one of my Students and Staff with my life and the life of all citizens of the world. If I didn't, I don't think I could run this Academy."
"Why not?"
"Well, the answer is simple My Dear. If you couldn't put your faith into those that will one day protect your citizens, why even bother to train and nurture them? It would be a waste of time if that was the case. And time is simple something we don't have enough of." He looked up at that last part. Emilia followed his lead, and finally noticed the giant cogs and gears, as they spun around.
"Wha-"
"An inside of a clock." Ozpin interrupted, having anticipated what she was going to say. "This tower is not only my Office, but also a Clock Tower."
"Wh-"
"Because it's a constant reminder that time is endless and I thought it would save room."
"B-"
"But doesn't it get annoying? Not really. It's quite silent as you can hear."
Emilia glared at him. "C-"
"Can I stop this? I suppose, but will I? I'm not sure."
To this, Glynda smacked him lightly on the back of the head. A small chuckle escaped his lips. "My apologies, I have met A lot of foreigners who ask the same questions. So I do that, and it never gets old."
Emilia Huffed. "While it was a little rude, it's fine. I'll forgive you this time."
"Thank you Emilia, I'm sure it won't happen again." Ozpin had his fingers crossed.
"I'm sorry to interrupt, but can we hurry this up? Lia and I have things to do." With a puff, Puck appeared, though transparent. Again, the sight of him not in his regular form worried Emilia. She didn't know what any of it signified and was to scared to ask. Trying to shove that dreadful feeling away, she spoke up.
"Puck! That's rude! He offered us a place to stay while we're here, 5 days before initiation! We should treat him with more respect than that!" Emilia tried to cover for Puck. She knew why he was in a rush, but tried to skid away from that subject.
"Then he should speak what's on his mind than trying to waste time. I'm sure he has more important things than chatting with a student." Puck said while crossing his arms. He was clearly annoyed with Ozpin with the whole entire scene a few days prior, but to think he would act like this was a surprise to Emilia.
"Puck!"
"It's fine Emilia." Ozpin spoke up, holding up the universal stop sign. He took a sip of his coffee as he looked up at Puck. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Spirit Contract Puck. I hope there is no hard feelings between us for days past?"
"As soon as you properly find a way to make up for the stress you put Lia through, then yes, there is still hard feelings." Puck said, anger lacing his voice. Before Emilia could get a word in to try to diffuse the situation, Ozpin spoke up.
"Indeed, it will take more than a simple sorry to have you forgive me. I will make steps to rectify my mistakes." Ozpin said, as he looked at Emilia. "Anyways, Puck is indeed right. I shouldn't waste time with small talk. I asked you here not only to introduce myself, but to also ask a favour of you."
"We are here to ask that, if you have the ability, heal a fatally wounded student of ours." Glynda interrupted. Ozpin didn't seem to mind. Looking between the two, Emilia asked the first simple question on her mind.
"Why didn't you bring this up sooner?" Emilia was, at heart, a very kind soul. The type of soul to feel bad for hurting a animal trying hard to save it's life. Even though she would never openly admit it, helping people was one of her favorite things to do, even if there is no reward. So to hear that someone is probably about to die at any minute, while she sat here and had a lovely conversation, when she could be helping worried her.
"Because we have already found someone who could possibly help. We also didn't want to come off as forceful and didn't want it to seem like we brought you here only for this." Ozpin picked up for Glynda.
"Well, I'm sorry, but Lia and I don't have that kind of talent to heal fatally wounded people. We can heal minor wounds and at best stabilize them for a period of time depending on the injury, but I'm guessing you already have that part covered." Puck said, as Ozpin nodded. Emilia didn't really understand what was going on at all. "If that's all, we should be leaving."
"Puck! Wait! We might know someone who could help!" Looking at Ozpin, she continued. "Beatrice, one of the residents of Roswaal mansion, can heal anyone from any wound. I'm sure if you take her there, Beatrice would be happy to help!" Puck laughed at that last part.
"We have thought of that, and the risk of something going wrong is too high for us to risk it. But we have an idea for that one. It might take some time though." Ozpin said as he took another sip. "Besides, as we said, we may have found someone who could heal her back to normal. It's all a matter of time though."
"A matter of time?" Emilia repeated.
"You see, while the healer has agreed to help, he mentioned it might take longer than we had hoped to get her in tip top shape."
Emilia sat back, unsure of what to say. A deep feeling of uselessness could be felt in her gut again, most likely the cause of her constant shift in emotions. She needed to help, for she couldn't just leave something like this alone.
"Is there anything I can do? Heal surface wounds, provide support, anything?" Emilia pleaded. Ozpin just shook his head.
"The healer mentioned that any other interference could Disrupt the healing process. With a case like this, mixing different healers could become a problem if they aren't specialists."
"Oh…" A feeling of sorrow settled in her gut. Being told that they would be useless was not all that great.
Puck noticed this, and sent a glare to Ozpin, who seemed to pick up on it. 'Good, at least he's not dense.' Puck thought bitterly.
"There is one thing you might help with though." Ozpin said, to which Emilia's head snapped up to him. "Just a very simple request that would make all the difference."
"I'll do anything to help her! Please!"
Ozpin smiled, "Alright. This request isn't just from me though, so bare that in mind when I speak." Ozpin calmly stood up and looked her in the eye. "We request that you learn at this school and protect our citizens!"
Emilia sat, dumbfounded. Out of all the things he could have requested- money, power, manpower- he chose for her to learn at this school and protect his citizens? Feeling like she was being mocked, she meant to voice this, but was stopped as Ozpin continued.
"I don't ask this of you lightly, Emilia. You are from a Continent that had no fear of Grimm, and for all I know, you could be plotting to tear us down." Emilia made to rebuke that, but Ozpin stopped her. "I ask you to learn here, to learn of our world and our troubles, to hopefully one day bring TNC to help us. I ask you to protect our citizens, for not all of them are happy to see Lugnica in the sky, away from the threat of Grimm. I wish for you to change their views, to welcome you with open arms."
Emilia sat in her seat, a quizzical expression on her face. "Why would you trust me of this then? You said yourself I could be plotting against you, why do you take that risk?"
"For I have too." Ozpin said as he got up and made his way to the window. "Emilia, what do you see when you look at Vale from here?"
Following his lead, she stood beside him, looking past the buildings blocking her view. All she saw was one giant wall and towers rising above that. "I see walls."
"Exactly. My goal is to tear them down."
The sudden declaration caused Emilia to star at him. Such a kind looking and docile man had just said something that no one in their right mind should even mutter. Puck had seemed to be a little out if wack too, since he started forming crystals. Glynda raised her wand, in preparation of Pucks attack. Either to stop it before it hit Ozpin or attack them when they did, Emilia didn't know.
"I don't have any nefarious scheme Emilia, I'm just stating a natural desire." To this, Emilia felt more worried. "I wish to see these disgusting walls torn down, along with all Grimm and Borders. For Remnant to finally be one, and not separate."
While most people see walls that protect them from Grimm, I see a prison constructed by our fears. A fear so vile that we willingly trapped ourselves in a prison to keep ourselves safe. And we call that 'home'." Ozpin looked into Emilia's eyes. "You asked earlier why we don't have borders at Beacon? While all of what I said is true, I also wish to show our students, the world, that we don't need the constant protection of a falsified wall doubling as a prison to feel safe."
So, yes, I wish to take Vale's Mantle's and Vacuo's walls down. To unify Remnant. And I am hoping to one day, TNC can see us eye to eye. To help unite this world." Ozpin said as he took a sip of his coffee. "As for why I trust you, I have no choice but too. Any one of those children down there can change the future of Remnant. The same goes for you Emilia. So I ask of you, will you help me?"
Emilia stood, once again, in silence. Unsure of how to respond. All of today had been one big emotional hurdle, and now suddenly she was asked to help defend a Kingdom? She didn't know how to respond. But her instincts did.
"I will do my best, Headmaster." Emilia unconsciously said. While a great deal of weight was lifted from her shoulders, a lighter one was set on her. She felt better than she did previously. Another shift in emotions.
"Thank you, Emilia." He said as they moved back to sit down. "Now that that conversations out of the way, would you like some coffee?"
"Ozpin, we would love to at a later date, but we have some things to do." Puck interjected again, not even bothering to appear this time. He was grateful for Ozpin in that the man seemed to somehow relax Emilia, but still held some bitter feelings for him. Right now though, he needed to get Lia some sleep.
"Of course, maybe another time then." Ozpin said as he sat down. Glynda motioned for Emilia to follow her. "Also, would you keep the wounded student a secret?"
"I will, but why?" Emilia asked, somewhat confused.
"Well, I'll explain that at a later date. All you need to know for now is that it could potentially endanger her if world got out of her condition." Ozpin offered as an explanation. For anyone else, that wouldn't have been enough. For Emilia, she saw it as she was keeping someone alive. That was good enough for her.
"I will keep this between us."
"I'll show you to your dorms." Goodwitch offered as they continued to the box.
"Before you leave." Ozpin said. Emilia stopped and looked at him. "It's about the Witch Cult." To this, Emilia started to sweat. "Don't worry about those trivial lunatics. We took extra care to tighten every bit of security in Beacon and Vale. You might not notice it, but we promise that no one will get hurt because of them."
"Please, tighten it even further if possible." Emilia said, a little downcast. She believed the technological advances of Vale should be enough to combat the threat, but there was always the chance of that not being enough. "I would prefer if no one got hurt for my stay here."
"You needn't worry Emilia." Ozpin said, putting a close to the conversation. "You have a wonderful stay here at Beacon. If you need anything, please contact me or Glynda. Our information will be in your dorm, along with your scroll."
"Thank you, Headmaster." Emilia said simply. Getting into the Box, Glynda pressed a button and the doors closed once again. Ozpin face the last thing she saw of that room.
Now that it was over, a sense of relief washed over her. She didn't feel that dreadful feeling anymore. She didn't know why, but she felt that she could put faith in that The Witch Cult wouldn't be such a serious threat, and she was in some way helping, even if it was minor.
Although it did bother her that there was someone powerful enough to heal fatal wounds on campus. She didn't detest the idea, but she was worried about who it could be. There wasn't a lot of healers powerful enough to do anything besides heal open wounds.
Curiosity would be the best way to describe it. Who was it that could heal someone who was fatally wounded? Who could be this mysterious healer?
"Ms. Goodwitch?" Emilia asked, a little nervous. Glynda just looked at her curiously. "Who is the healer? The one who could heal the wounded girl?"
Glynda smiled. "Well, I guess it wouldn't be a secret for long. She claimed to be a good friend of yours. She went by the name-"
Ding*
Another adult walked into the Box, offering Glynda a shaky hello as he carried piles of paper.
Unlike last time though Glynda didn't stop when the door opened, and the noise didn't stop her from hearing. Yet she wasn't even sure if she heard right.
Why the hell were they here?
--
Extra
Jaune was having a wonderful day. The sky was blue, the birds were singing, the laughter of children in the park bringing smiles to everyone's faces. The best thing was, was that he got accepted into Beacon! Nothing could ruin this day!
Well, until he felt a force of a short woman bumping into him, that was. She, unfortunately, fell to the ground, specifically muddy ground.
"Oh No! I'm so sorry! I didn't see you there!" Jaune offered a hand to help the lady up. From the looks of it, he had just bumped into a maid and ruined her dress. Well, was it a made? Or one of those quirky girls that dressed funny? She grabbed his hand and he pulled her up.
"Sister, sister! Are you alright?" Another maid, slightly… bigger, shouted at their direction. Now he was starting to believe that they were maids, with how elegant the second maid moved.
"Of course, Rem, Rem" The sister spoke, her voice lacking any emotion. "It's a shame though, we weren't given enough money besides grabbing food for master." She said.
"Sister, sister! What are we going to do? Master will be upset if we come home dirty like this. He might punish us…" Rem said, a worried tone in her voice.
"Rem, Rem. I'm not sure, I might have to take the punishment…" The sister responded, her voice lacking any emotion but her face showing worry.
Jaune was a well mannered, and polite boy. But he was also a impulsive teen. He couldn't stop that one image from making its way into his head…
"I could help." Jaune offered, a bit meekly. "It was my fault that your uniform hot all dirty anyways." To this, the Red head looked up at him.
"Of course" Red said, like she was expecting this reaction… "but what should I wear in the meantime?"
This had Jaune stop to think. He wasn't dumb, and he certainly was impulsive, but he could see a scam a mile away. And he could smell it radiating off these two. But he was still a ladies man, so even if he was being screwed over, he really couldn't help himself.
'I'm going to regret this'
"Well, I could buy you some clothes while we wait to get these washed?" Jaune offered nervously. He felt instant regret as the Red one smiled.
"Perfect. I'm sure that you'll be of great help to us Blondie." She said as she dragged him to the nearest clothing store. Rem had an apologetic smile on her face.
Jaune went home that day broke, miserable and full of regret.
Morale of the story, stand up to cons.
--
Ok! This was meant to have a whole other part to it. That part being the initiation, but seeing as I don't really know how long it will be, I'm deciding to end it here. I'm sorry, but I generally write as I go.
That doesn't mean I don't have whole arcs planned out (mostly just major points). Literally the one right after initiation is going to be my favorite one to write. It might not be as creative, but it introduces a character that will be pivotal to a arc further down the line.
Ok, Before I go any further, I need to address something, and please listen before dropping out of the story. I absolutely hate OC's. Most of them anyways. There are those like the parents of Haruhi in "Meet the Suzumiya's" that I absolutely love and I consider canon. Then there are OC's that act like there life is full of tragedy and that gives them rights to be absolute jerks to everyone. Or just plain OP.
So, while I was considering future arcs, I came upon a shocking realization. Both Re:Zero and RWBY have next to no villains to play with. RWBY amounts to Cinder, and Roman's crew with the side of White Fang. Re:Zero just has an abundance of over powered guys who's main job is to torture Subaru mentally.
This works perfectly for both series, for RWBY mostly deals with unraveling a threat that can't be seen (Well, recently it's been a Pokemon journey to another Kingdom), while Zero main focus is to overcome quite literal impossible odds. Seriously, if Subaru didn't have his power, that would be it. Elsa had her love session with Subaru's guts.
On a side not, why the hell did she stick around after killing Rom and Felt? Like, she could have left right there? Does she find pleasure in watching blood come from old guys mouths?
I bet you she wanted his chest hair.
Anyways, in the context of this story though, I don't want it to be either of those. I want them to fight struggles that don't constantly have Subaru resetting everything. I want them to be able to grow on their own. That's why some arcs won't have Subaru as the MC.
I could just use the white Fang and witch cult for everything, but that would ruin them. I want the Witch Cult to feel like they did in episode 15 of Zero. How this sudden threat, appeared out of nowhere, and ruined everything. I don't want them to be the center of attention. I want you to be on your toes. When would they kill someone, will they come back?
So, with that in mind, I want your opinion. I don't plan on making OC's , for I would just be doing something I hate (wouldn't mind making one, but then I'd at least make one that's quirky), so would you dislike it if I used characters from another series?
A Certain series.
They have tons of villains and characters to play around with, so it would be fun. Rwby and Zero characters can grow, and it would make sense later down the line.
Ok, so I gotta say a few more things before I'm done. I'm sorry this is so long.
Timothy- Yeah, she's more independent. And she survived it (barely). Sloth decided to retreat since he screwed up the whole Ordeal. Live to fight another day. Also, I thought you said this was boring? What brought you back?
llat-2 – I know about Roswaal and his dealings. I've read the synopsis and currently a good portion into arc 4. It's good I gotta say. If you could help me get to Arc 5 though so I could better grasp Regulus (btw, I got a good idea on how he acts, but for the sake of him not killing EVERYONE, I'm gonna tone him down just a smidge.) I did a little more research on Roswaal too thanks to you. I learned more than I thought, so thanks dude!
Guest (Kimagurakahira)- Dude, you don't know how happy I was with you. I was having a slow day, eating out at Applebees with a group of friends while we voiced over Bull Riding (one guy got beat up pretty badly. That's when we actually paid him some respect), and then I check my phone! And guess who it was, you buddy! I was honestly starting to think I sucked at writing (which I do), or maybe this story was truly crap (which it is), then you buddy! You called it interesting! You, along with whoever else reads this, trudged through the cringe and dirt I call writing and Read it! Thank you! Also, I want to do that praying, but everywhere I look, I can't find that story. Can you help me out mate?
But honestly, thank you to every reviewer and followed and favorite. I'm like a carriage driver trying to get to the end and you are like the unwilling passengers begging to get off. I love you!
Anyways, thanks guys! See you soon!
P.S.- Check out Redlikeroses7 One-Shot of RWBY x Zero. It's pretty good. Hey! Thanks for the follow btw! Hit me up if you ever wanna chat! (Or anyone for that matter). Peace!