Note: THEY FINALLY FIXED THE DOSH VAULT GLITCH WHERE FOR SOME REASON YOU DIDN'T GET THE CRATES. NOW, well at least for me, I'm now able to get my dosh vault crates again. I'm so excited, and because of that, I'm even more excited to continue this fanfic. Anyways, hope you enjoy the chapter!
"RUBY! YANG! WHERE ARE YOU!"
"Weiss! Ruby! Blake!"
"Team RWBY! Ms. Schnee! Are you out there! Give us some sort of sign! A response!"
"Blake! Blake, are you out there!"
"I should be the only one calling out to her…" Sun grumbled, as Ilia just stuck her tongue out.
Qrow, looking livid, glared at the two. "Focus you two! It's been almost a week! My nieces are out there! I don't know where, but if something happened to them, I swear to Oum." As Qrow continued to talk, his voice went from one of anger, to worry, as he grew emotional.
Ilia and Sun glanced at each other with guilt written all over their faces. "Qrow, please relax. We're talking about Ruby and her team here. Along an elite Atlas huntress, Winter Schnee herself. I'm sure they're fine." Ozpin calmly said in Oscar's body.
"Oh yeah? Didn't you say the same thing when it came to Summer?" Qrow sharply shot back.
Ozpin, clearly taken aback from the jab, only had a face that described one of guilt, heartbreak and regret. Qrow took another look back at the former headmaster, and immediately tried to take it back. "Ozpin, I-"
"Qrow please. I understand, they're your nieces, family. And I truly regret what happened to Summer, I'm sorry Qrow. But please, just calm down, you're not the only one worried here. Team RNJR, Sun, Ilia and I are here too, and worried deeply for their safety. Don't forget about Ghira and Kali Belladonna, who are back there helping the villagers rebuild." Ozpin placed a hand on one of Qrow's shoulders. "You're not the only one struggling."
"I'm sorry for what I said earlier, but you have to understand. They're under my care. Imagine Taiyang, how do you think he'll react knowing his girls are either missing, or worse, dead!" Qrow calmed down a bit, looking more somber than heated. "They're my nieces, I'd die for them."
"And we'll find them Qrow. For now, you need to set an example for these upcoming huntsmen and huntresses. Their looking up to us for guidance, we can't lose ourselves." Qrow looked over at the younglings. Team JNR had supporting and reassuring smiles, as they too truly wanted to find their missing sister team. Ilia had a bit of a uncertainty and a nervous look, but Qrow couldn't tell if it was because of what Ozpin said was true, or she was worried about a particular Faunas in team RWBY. Lastly, Sun gave him a determined look, no doubt willing to go through lengths to make sure Blake is okay. I mean, he snuck onboard the ship to Menagerie because to help her.
Qrow gave a nod of approval to the teens. "Alright, alright. Freaking out won't help us anyways. Let's just keep moving, the longer we take, the longer they're gone." Everyone nodded as they continued to search the destroyed village of Meade.
Qrow lagged behind a bit, pulling his flask and opening it. Nothing was better than a bit of alcohol to calm the nerves. Ever since Raven abandoned the Xiao Longs, and Summer's death, alcohol was the only way for him to cope with all the bad luck he received and gave to others. Most notably, to Taiyang. They weren't just team STRQ, they were literally family to him, and now, they were broken up. Much like team RWBY was after the fall of Beacon.
Before the flask could reach his lips, he found himself kissing a hand instead of sipping in some alcohol. He looked over at the owner of the hand that denied him of his beverage, and found the blonde knight himself covering the lid.
"You know, Ruby always wanted you to stop drinking." Jaune had a face of worry, but not only for RWBY and Winter, but also for Qrow.
Qrow sighed, remembering ever since the day Ruby learned what alcohol does to someone, she's always begged him to stop. "You're pulling out that card huh?" Qrow lowered his flask, closing it and placing it back where it belonged. "You know, maybe one day you'll learn why, but there are simply some ghosts you can't exorcise, no matter how much you want to forget, and no matter how much you want to get rid of them." Qrow looked ahead, staring at the backs of the group, avoiding the knight beside him.
"I know the feeling." Jaune simply said, in an almost dead and lifeless tone.
"Do you?" Qrow challenged. He wasn't gonna get pushed around by someone who was younger than him, who hasn't gotten nearly as much experience as him. Who doesn't have his semblance. His temper almost got the better of him, until he quickly analyzed Jaune's response. He remembered the evening he met the Mistralian Champion, and he remembered when he gave the news to the blonde knight himself. "You do." Qrow simply stated as he looked at the ground, ashamed that his temper almost got the best of him.
"Its fine, I get it." Jaune said, as he patted Qrow's shoulder. "But right now, like you said earlier, your nieces are out there. You'd be doing a better job sober than drunk, as much as I'd admit a good drink sounds fantastic right now." Jaune paused for a bit, letting his words sink in. "Not only that, but I refuse to lose more of my friends now. Close. Friends."
Qrow looked up to Jaune, and was pleasantly surprised at what he found. Jaune had an almost unnatural look of fiery determination. Almost as if he'd sooner die for his friends, before any of them would even risk defeat.
Finding a bit of determination from Jaune, Qrow straightened himself up, and lightly punched Jaune's arm. "Thanks kid, I've always been there for my girls. Its good to know that they've been spending time with people like you. Remind me that I owe you a drink now." Qrow started to make his way towards Ozpin's group, as he gestured Jaune to follow.
Jaune smiled to himself a bit, happy that he'd manage to help, at least a bit. "I did say one would be good right now." Jaune said this to himself, as he shook his head from the thought. He followed Qrow, as they both made their way to the group.
"Oz! Check this out." The group made their way to the edge of the village, following the areas of the village that were the most damaged. Qrow looked over, and noticed the ground had a trail of devastation leading to the forest. The ground marks were easily identified as Grimm, lots and lots of Grimm, most likely the entire horde that was attacking the village.
"What is it Qrow?"
Qrow was on one knee, taking a closer look at the ground. "Look at the ground, must've been like hundreds, if not thousands of Grimm were all heading down the forest." Qrow explained, as he stared off into the destructive trail that led to the forest.
"Quite unnatural, most likely Salem's doing, commanding the Grimm. We can only assume what, or even who, they were after." Ozpin didn't shutter, worrying about Qrow's reaction. But said man just balled his fist, his knuckles turning white.
Ozpin ordered the teens to rendezvous with Ghira and Kali, as they were helping the locals recover from the Grimm attack. Ozpin and Qrow continued deeper into the forest, as they walked, they not only passed broken branches and disturbed plants. But also trees that were either torn from their roots completely, or destroyed in its entirety. Trees sliced in half, craters from no doubt Yang's HE rounds, and the ground itself was mud and dirt, as the grass that once grew here was all gone. Replaced with nothing but Grimm paw or claw marks, bullet casings or holes, magazine clips and a destroyed ecosystem. The trail of destruction only led to a dead-end cave that only raised more questions. If the Grimm followed the group here, and knowing Salem, killed them, where were their bodies? It was possible the team fought their way out, then again, it could've ended worse. Salem had no use for the bodies of her enemies, unless she was trying something new.
Qrow reached into his pocket, taking out his scroll. Opening it, the screen showed the aura bars for team RWBY and Winter, getting Winter's bar because of that one annoying mission with her. Weird thing was, that he never got the notification that indicated any depleted auras, nor flatlines.
"They could still be alive." Qrow said, as he stood up, towering over Oscar's body.
"Perhaps, and hopefully." Ozpin replied. "Whoever was hunting them could've also have destroyed their scrolls as well."
"I know." Qrow growled, then sighed.
Ozpin walked up, now beside the dusty old Crow. "Lets think this through, as no doubt we've both been thinking the same thing." He paused for a moment, looking back at Qrow, who only nodded to him to continue. "If Salem wanted them dead, why wouldn't she want us to know? Even if she took the bodies. They could be alive, most likely because Ruby is a silver eye, and the team, plus Winter, together can make for a formidable ally. Other than that, there is still a good chance that they're still out there Qrow. We have to keep pushing forward. If they are alive, they need us more than ever. If not…" Ozpin had to pause, shaking his head, it's always a nightmare to lose a student. Even worse if they're as young as one Ruby Rose. "… then, we'd still need the bodies." Ozpin grimly said. Unable to imagine the scenario, if it came to that situation.
Qrow said nothing, as he struggled with his own thoughts about the matter at hand. As rational thought violently collided with his emotions, an internal battle raged in his head. Doing his best to not think about his nieces possible death, he just looked around, trying to find anything he could use to help.
While looking around, he noticed a small yet decent size hole in the ground, right near the dead end wall. Its wasn't a bullet hole, it's almost as if something was planted there, some sort of spike. Going through his head about what it could possibly be, he ended up giving up, not finding anything that could possibly be related. With the strange hole now listed in his head as a detail, he turned around and walked past Ozpin.
"Come on Oz, my nieces are somewhere out there, and they need me, need us." Qrow closed his eyes, and slowly breathed to calm his nerves. "Ruby, Yang, your team and ice queen, where ever you are, please for the love of Oum, be safe." He muttered to himself.
No reason, for grieving
*BOOM*
*POM, POM, POM, POM*
*BANG, BANG, BANG, BANG*
"LET ME TEST OUT MY NEW NERVE GAS!"
"OH JEEZ, NEVER HEARD THAT ONE BEFORE!"
*BBBBBBBBRRRRRRRRRTTTTTTTT*
"GAS! GAS! GAS!"
"GRENADES! INCOMING!"
"TAKE COVER!"
"Incoming zeds, cysts, slashers and alpha clots!"
"Winter! Briar! Alberts! Don't let those zeds near us! The rest of you, continue to maneuver around Volter, don't let him get near you and stay in cover when he fires. And for goodness sakes, DON'T TAKE YOUR MASKS OFF!" Rye calls out.
"NO SHIT RYE! MOVING TO INTERCEPT!" Winter shouted out, as she and the other two from Firestar moved to tackle the incoming Zed reinforcements.
"Everyone else! Focus fire on the damn Nazi!" Rye called out, taking a some shots before Volter's shields activated.
"HIS SHIELDS ARE UP! EVERYONE FOCUS FIRE! RYE! JOIN WINTER IN CROWD CONTROL! BRIAR, ALBERTS, HELP US TAKE HIS SHIELDS DOWN!" Masterson ordered, being a more experienced squad leader, Rye followed suit.
Linking up with the older Schnee, they both had their weapons in semi-automatic, and continued to mow down the zeds.
*BANG, BANG, BANG, BANG*
*BANG BANG, BANG BANG*
I can see them everywhere, they're all around me, they're waiting for meee!
"That isn't very reassuring Rye! What type of song is this?" Winter commented, as they both were nailing headshots right, left and centre.
"Its called b-"
Beau-ty of Anni-hilation
"Yeah, that!" Rye smiled brightly after he said that.
"Whatever! But honestly, the lyrics could be better." Winter said, as she reloaded her M416.
Rye laughed a bit at the Schnee's annoyance, "I won't lie, the lyrics could use a bit more of a 'pick-me-up,' then again, this song's from a video game mode, and usually you don't pay that much attention to the music being played."
"That is so irritating!" Winter said, as she continued to blast away the incoming cysts, slashers and alpha clots. In which Rye couldn't help but chuckle at.
"I'm surprised that the great Winter Schnee is focusing more on the background lyrics than what's in front of her!" Rye could help but tease her a bit.
"Well, you said it yourself. Don't fight the music, fight with it, use the rhythm of the music to help you in the rhythm of combat right?" Winter said, as she switched to her SCAR-H, flipped it to full-auto, and let loose.
*RTATATATATATATATA*
There was nothing left of the group of small zeds. Just bloodied corpses and the limbs that used to be attached to them. Rye stared at the carnage, nodding approvingly as he turned his head to the Specialist. "That's not a bad saying, 'Use the rhythm of the music to help your rhythm of combat.' Plus you're getting used to this whole zed-slaying business, I like it." He grinned at the specialist.
Winter had a small smirk of her own, "Hm, you're welcome by the way, and I have decent teacher helping me out. I guess he deserves a bit of credit as well." She said in a joking manner.
"Why, you're too kind Ms. Schnee. Let me take this opportunity to express my sincerest gratitude." Rye said, in an exaggerated, and mocking tone of stereotypical aristocrat. He took Winter's free left hand, as her right hand had her SCAR-H. He bent forward to gesture a kiss, but through his gasmask. "Smooch." Rye audibly said out loud.
Winter blushed a bit at the gesture, but was also a bit conflicted. She wanted to scold him for playing around in a middle of a battle. But then again, she was too. She also couldn't help but giggle at his odd demeanour. So she just chose to play along, "Hm, proper etiquette towards a Schnee, how flattering." Winter said with a gentle smile, her knowledge from etiquette class seeping in.
"DIE, DIE, DIE, DIE!"
*BOOM, BOOM, BOOM, BOOM*
"Hey love birds! We could use your help here!" Yang called out, as she got behind a car, covering herself from one of Volter's grenades.
"Oh shit, right, come on Elsa, let's go!" Rye his way back into the fray.
"Who?" Winter asked, before she ran up to join the chaos.
The boss battle was as intense as it always was. Their battle first took place at Defence Point B, but they were pushed back as Volter first charged at them. Panicked, RWBY made they're way to the scaffoldings, as Rye then called for a retreat to the LZ. There, with more room to work with, they were able to put up more of a fight. Surrounding Volter, and quickly moving away from him whenever he charges or throws grenades.
Ruby always stayed away from the actual fighting, as she hung back at the middle of the stairs that led to the upper street. She used her range as an advantage, nailing a few headshots and mostly body shots, while being out of range of his grenades. She also assisted Rye and Winter in crowd control as well. Pyrrha was with her, using Miló in its rifle form to also assist in over watch. Weiss, Blake and Yang had to remain close, due to how effective their weapons were at close range. Not that any of them couldn't hit Volter at a longer range with their weapons. They stayed close to Masterson, as Weiss would always burst her Kriss Vector, and Blake used her Desert Eagles. But Yang stayed with Scully, apparently, they share a passion for blowing shit up.
*BANG* *BANG**BANG**BANG*
Blake hissed through her teeth, "My wrists are hurting a bit." She and Weiss were currently taking cover behind a window in the nearby café.
"Why are you still using them? I've seen the recoil, it's insane!" Weiss scolded the Faunus, but more out of concern than annoyance.
"I'm fine Weiss, thank you for the concern, but I want to take this thing down, and get used to these beasts." Blake commented on her Desert Eagles, bringing them up to inspect them. They were beasts, something you should handle with care and mastery, or it'll bite back. Usually through a broken wrist. Luckily, Blake was getting used to the recoil. "How bout you? You doing fine?"
"I could be better, but this thing hits hard and moves fast. I could tell, even on Remnant, he'll be a bitch to take down." Weiss said, then realizing what she said. "Ooh" She squeaked, as she covered her mouth, a bit shocked she herself used such vulgar language.
Blake looked at the heiress with a smirk, "Indeed, but did you have to such vulg-"
"Don't!" Weiss interrupted the Faunus in a playful tone, in which both just laughed at.
*BOOM* *BOOM* *BOOM*
Then they both remembered that they were in the middle of a battle. "Oh, yeah… we should get back to it right?" Blake said.
"Indeed!" The heiress quickly answered as they both rushed out of the café and joined the fray once more.
The boss itself was always what they called a bullet sponge, Volter's armoured exo-suit was cleverly designed so that fast and precise movements meant that any bullets will always hit the small armoured plates. But of course, a normal six man team will take a bit of time to actually take a boss down. But this time, even if one team was technically still in training, they were also a force to be reckon with.
"HE'S ON HIS LAST SHIELDS!" Alberts called out, as he reloaded his dragons breath trench gun.
"JUST SMASHING YOU ISN'T ENOUGH?! YOU ARE ANNOYING ME!" Volter venomously called out, as he was now throwing more gas, in a desperate attempt to call victory. The light on his suit was now red, indicating that he was now on his last legs. But a tip the resonated with all the mercs is that, the more he changes colour, the deadlier Volter gets. Which is why many soldier and mercs called Volter, 'The World's deadliest rainbow.' The suit itself let out sparks of electricity, indicating that it sustain too much damage from the fight. His body, riddled with not only wrinkles, scars from multiple sadistic surgeries, or discoloured skin that showed more than a few chemicals pulsing within his body. But now had bullet holes, his own blood, and fresh scars from his first and final encounter with a group of mercenaries.
"Take him down! TAKE HIM DOWN!"
Death's so beautiful, Looks so beautiful on me…
"Incoming, more zeds are inbound towards your fight!"
"Rye?" Winter called out.
"I know, same plan!"
Rye and Winter rushed to meet the group of light and medium zeds, along with the sniper support from Ruby and Pyrrha. They were met with cysts, slashers, clots, and now, stalkers and crawlers. They were easily dealt with, well, the ones that they could actually see.
Winter heard some inhuman, yet feminine groaning and a bit of moaning sounds. When Winter turn to face the source, she was quickly met with a kick to the back of her knee, forcing her down.
"ARGH!" Winter's cries of pain was heard by Rye, as he also noticed the shimmer.
"Winter!"
*BANG*
Instantaneously, there was now a headless stalker, who tumbled forward and fell beside the fallen Schnee. Rye quickly made his way to her, bending down on one knee, checking for more injuries. "You alright? Can you stand?"
Winter nodded her head, "Damn thing kicks hard, that's twice now. But other than that, the initial pain wore off, I'm fine."
*POUM*
"SHIELDS OUT!"
Rye looked at the battle, then back at Winter, "Alright, get up then and let's take down this bastard." Rye said a bit too excitingly.
Winter grinned at the time, "Okay, lets!"
Winter got up, and they both rushed into the fray once again. Both of them regrouped with the teams, as they took cover behind a white cargo truck, beside the nearby café. Also taking cover with them was Yang, as she now switched to her HZ12.
Yang had a small frown on her face, but was quickly being enveloped by a more focused look. She noticed that she wasn't alone anymore, and turned to see Rye looking questioningly at her.
"My AA-12 ran out of ammo." Yang answered with a small pout and frown on her face.
"Ah." Rye nodded, as he turned his attention to the ongoing but almost finished fight.
Winter was peaking out, observing the battle, as she then turned to face Rye and Yang. "Damn son of a bitch is still alive and kicking. Its eight of us against him, and he's still up. Albeit barely." Both Rye and Yang raised an eyebrow at Winter, surprised she was using such vulgar terms. Winter blushed a bit at the realization. "I guess Rye's been rubbing off on me." Winter laughed nervously.
Yang wiggled her eyebrows, giving her a sultry smile. "Maybe you should return the favour, maybe rub off Rye?" Yang said in a seductive voice, earning a glare from Winter and Rye.
"Watch it Xiao Long." Rye said with narrow eyes. In which Yang just gave him a cheeky smile. "Anyways, back to the Zed at hand, he's barely standing. Where is everyone?"
"Taking cover, why'd you think I was here in the first place?" Yang responded.
"Why though?"
*BOOM* *BOOM* *BOOM*
They all instinctively bent down a bit to avoid any flying shrapnel. "Ask the psycho throwing grenades everywhere." Yang said.
Winter got up. "What should we do?"
"RYE? GOT IDEAS?" Masterson asked, over in the comms. Everyone was listening in, as they wanted to know how they will get out of this, preferably alive.
Rye peaked around the white cargo truck, to see where everyone was hiding, and where Volter was.
Currently, Volter was standing on the bridge barricade that led to the Eiffel tower. Just like every other Zed boss, they will go down fighting, none will flee a losing fight. His exo-suit was red, and sparking, it's clear it didn't take a lot to finish him off. Knowing that they have him outnumbered, it will be a relatively fast fight. But if they weren't careful, those grenades that he was chucking would have the possibility of wiping them out completely, or wounding them at least.
He looked around to search for the rest of his team and Firestar. Not finding anyone, he called them in. "Sound off, where are you guys?"
"Me, Alberts and Briar are taking cover behind the advertisement booth." Masterson called in.
"Still on the stairs, ran out of ammo long ago." Ruby called in.
"Well that explains why I couldn't hear you firing." Rye commented.
"I'm here with Ruby, I'm also out as well, but I still have a few grenades with me." Pyrrha said.
"CLOSEST TO VOLTER, BEHIND THE CAR THAT'S RIGHT BESIDE HIS ADJACENT BARRICADE!" DJ Scully shouted in the radio.
*BOOM* *BOOM* *BOOM*
Followed by the explosions, so far he's the one that's mostly in danger.
"Me and Weiss are in the Café again, we can see you!" Blake called in, as Rye turned to face them. Literally the cargo van was right beside the Café, and Rye waved at the two girls.
"And finally, I'm literally right across from you." Foster called in. Rye turned the other way, across the street to see the man, taking cover behind the large monument that's beside the barricade that Volter is on.
Doom so close that I could taste it!
*BOOM* *BOOM*
Rye caught the closing lyric as Volter's grenades went off. "Oh, that was quick, wonder what's next."
OOOOOHHH OH WHOA OOOOHHH OH WHOA OOOOHHH OH WHOA OH OOOOOHHH!
Rye clapped, "Alright some Fall Out Boy! Okay, does anyone have flashbangs, nails bombs, freeze grenades, or anything else that could be used to disorientate or distract Volter long enough for us to give him the final beat down?"
"Got one flash." Weiss replied.
"Nothing, sorry Rye." Blake said.
"Got a Molly." Foster said.
*BOOM* *BOOM*
"TWO STICKS OF DYNAMITE!" Scully reported.
"None, sawry…" Ruby adorably said.
"We're all empty here, behind the booth." Briar said.
"I'm running on fumes here Rye." Yang said right beside him.
*BOOM* *BOOM* *BOOM*
"Same here." Winter added.
"Like I said, got a few grenades on me, three actually." Pyrrha said.
"Okay, good, here's my plan." Rye peaked out from behind the cargo truck. "Give the fucker-"
"BAD WORD!" Ruby immediately called in.
*BOOM* *BOOM* *BOOM* *BOOM*
"Sorry! I mean, give the big bad man a taste of his own medicine. Throw everything you got at him, immediately afterwards, we do the same thing, but with our guns doing the talking."
*BOOM* *BOOM* *BOOM*
"How many grenades does this guy have?" Winter questioned.
*BOOM*
Winter gave the best 'seriously?' face.
Masterson peaked out from his position. "Hmf, if our ordinance doesn't kill him first, well, our guns will, I like it."
*BOOM* *BOOM* *BOOM*
"ANYTHING TO GET ME THE HELL OUTTA HERE!" Scully yelled out loud and not on the radio.
"JUST DIE!" Volter called out.
"Alright, on three people! On-"
"FUCKING DIE YOU INSOLENT LITTE WORMS!" Volter rudely interrupted Rye.
"Fuck you! THREE!" Rye yelled out.
Following his command, he saw multiple projectiles heading towards the aging doctor. Volter notice the explosives being hurdled at him to late, as that all met him at once.
*SHATTER* *BOOM* *BOOM* *BOOM* *BOOM* *BOOM* *BOOM*
"NOW!" Rye roared out loud, as everyone got out of cover and started to prescribe the good doctor with full metal jackets and lead.
So light em up
*BANG* *BANG*
Light em up
*POM POM*
Light em up
*POW* *POW*
IM ON FIRRREEEE!
Foster uses the flamethrower in his modified Husk Cannon. The roar of the fire on sync with the lyric.
So light em up
*BRRRTT* *BRRRTT*
Light em up
*BOOM* *BOOM*
Light em up
*BANG BANG*
"IM ON FIIRRREEE!" Rye enthusiastically sang along.
OOOOOHHH OH WHOA OOOOHHH OH WHOA OOOOHHH OH WHOA OH OOOOOHHH!
Hans Volter, well, what used to be him, was just a fucked up corpse in the middle of the LZ.
"We may have overdone it." Rye nervously smiled, as he titled his hand side to side.
"Amazing work, as usual from Firestar, Mabel and Rye. As for the new comers, you did very well, better than most, in terms of other training missions. But nonetheless fantastic. I look forward to working with you Team Remnant. Mission completed. Playing the broadcast in a minute."
"Attention à tous les survivants avec le voisinage. L'essaim avoisinant a été éliminé et des mercenaires amicaux sont là pour aider. S'il vous plaît suivez le son de cet enregistrement à la DEZ à proximité, et être sauvé. Cette émission continuera pendant une heure jusqu'au départ."
"Attention to all survivors within the vicinity. The nearby swarm has been eliminated, and friendly mercenaries are here to assist. Please follow the sound of this recording to the nearby DEZ, to be rescued. This broadcast will continue for an hour until departure."
Well that ended better than I thought. I was actually sitting down inside the café, a hand hanging off the table, holding my gasmask, and the other resting on said table. The café I was in, was the one beside the LZ, as the barricade on the bridge was cleared out to make way room for the Osprey. Team Firestar were generous enough to be the ones who volunteered to lookout for survivors. I always liked having some peace and quiet, I consider myself leaning towards being an introvert than an extrovert. But then again, it's never good to be alone for long periods of time.
Alone
I hate that word.
The sound of crunching glass caught my attention. Ruby stumbled into the ruined café, with two empty guns on her back, blood stains all over her apparel, her gasmask hanging onto a clip by her hip, and a clear look of exhaustion evident through her facial expression and body language. She sees me and makes her way towards me, as she took a seat right across from me.
"I'm tired…" was all she said, as her head fell and hit the table.
"Owie."
I pat her head. "All part of the job Ruby. You'll get used to it." I reassure her. She looks up at me, and I give her a small yet gentle smile. She smiles back as warmly as possible. We sat there, in more or less tolerable silence, as neither one of us were able to break the silence.
"Hey, how you doing there reaper? Feeling alright?" I ask, wanting to at least get her mind to focus on something.
She lifted her head up, to looks at me. "Well… um… like I said, hehehe, I'm kinda tired from the fighting. But all in all, I actually had a bit of fun." Ruby answered.
"That's… good? I don't know if I should call a job that risks your life, fun. But I do see your point. In case that I don't, care to elaborate?" I ask.
"Well, zeds are a bit more of a challenge than Grimm, well so far." Rye looked around, seeing if there were any unwanted ears that we're currently listening. Ruby paused, as she covered her mouth upon realizing her slip.
Rye looked back at the little red reaper. "Its okay Ruby, we're clear. Keep going."
Ruby nodded, "Okay, well, how do I best explain this?" She paused for a few brief moments, collecting her thoughts. "I guess, since we don't have our auras, fighting creatures that could hit as hard as any Grimm, and fighting to survive, I never really felt more alive. Maybe it like a desire to stay alive, no matter what, or the adrenaline, it just felt exhilarating. And the music only helped reinforce it. Should I be worried?"
I couldn't help but laugh a little, knowing what she was talking about. "I didn't really know what to call that feeling, well until now. Winter gave me an idea, calling something like that the 'rhythm of combat.' Lemme take a wild guess, you felt something similar to this when you fought that pack of beowolves in your trailer, right? Or when your sparing or fighting competitively, it's just… fun?"
Ruby looked deep in thought, as no doubt she was skimming through her memories of various feelings. She nodded when she realized he was correct, "You're right!" She squeaked out, melting my heart a bit from her cuteness.
"So it seems, you really are a warrior Ruby." I huffed, "You're uncle really wasn't kidding about you silver eyes. Fearsome warriors that live on the battlefield. I'm really glad we're on the same team."
Her face significantly dulled into a somber look, as I immediately regretted mentioning Qrow. "Uncle Qrow…" Ruby gasped, "DAD!" She started hyperventilating, and Yang wasn't anywhere nearby. I got up, and went around the small table, to Ruby's side.
I then reach over to my radio, "Yang! Get to the café beside the LZ now!" My attention returns to the poor, young and innocent little rose in front of me. "Hey, hey Ruby. Don't worry, remember what we plan on doing? Getting you, your team, Winter and heck, Pyrrha back home. It'll be one big happy reunion. Don't think about all the bad stuff now, think about what'll happen later, and know that I'll do everything in my power to make sure you get back home, okay?" My right hand was on her shoulder, as she's currently on the verge of tears.
I heard the sound of a lot of crunching glass, as I turn my attention to the entrance to the café. The rest of team RWBY stood there. "What happened to her? What did you do!?" Yang angrily said, as she made her way to us.
She forcibly pushes me to the side, giving her more room to be with her sister. "Shit! I'm sorry! I just mentioned your uncle Qrow and she just started to hyperventilate."
Yang's head jolted up abruptly, almost as if she realized she may have had a lapse in judgement. "Oh," she said, in a calm tone.
"Yang…" Ruby's tears were now openly streaming down her face. She looked as bad as a kicked puppy. "I totally forgot about dad! How'd you think he is? Does he know that we're gone? How much longer are we going to be gone? OhmygoodnessYang! Dad already lost so many people close to him, how'd you think he'd react to us being gone? What if he thinks we're de-"
"Ruby!" Ruby looked up to her older sister, tears streaming down her cheeks. "He'll be okay, I know it Rubes. He won't give up on us, he's as stubborn as I am, I mean, I got it from him and…" Yang paused a bit. "… and Raven." She shook her head to focus again. "Anyways, he won't give up on us Rubes. He just won't, and what's the first things we always do when we meet him?"
Ruby stopped crying, and she had a small smile, as tears stained her cheeks. She remember what she and her sister always did when they met their father and uncle. "We always tackle them, and give them a big hug." Yang's response was to give her a calming smile, and ruffled her hair.
Ruby giggled, "Yeah, yeah I remember." Her demeanor changed, as she was now more calm. I couldn't help but smile, thanking Yang for being a amazing sister to Ruby.
Speaking of Yang, "Hey, if it makes you feel any better. Let's have a party when we get back. It'll be good for all of us!" The brawler looks up at me, with pleading and apologetic eyes, "Will that be okay?" Ruby was now also looking at me with pleading and expectant eyes. Weiss and Blake were also looking curious to see what I was about to say.
"Don't give me those eyes." Ruby and Yang were taken aback from my blunt delivery, and authoritative tone. "Psh, calm down, just teasin, I was already planning a small celebration in our room anyways." They visibly calmed, then Ruby got really excited.
"Thank you Rye!" Ruby rushed off her seat to give me hug. I only reassuringly pat her on the head.
Yang walks up to me, "Were you actually?"
"Yup." I answered her. "I mean, first successful extermination mission, even if it was with a more experienced team. That deserve a toast right?"
She smiles, "Heck yeah!"
"This is going to be so much fun!" Pyrrha squealed as me and her were setting up decorations, which of course was pretty limited. Due to being in a military operation, we'd only got things necessary for housing or combating zeds. Things for entertainment were not a priority, but soldiers and specifically mercenaries, are free to purchase anything with their own money. But right now, I couldn't buy anything, due to the fact that the party will be happening when team RWBY and Winter were back from the shooting range in the upper cargo hold. Why were they there, well I got something new that was just recently just made available, and Ruby could use a upgrade from her SR-25. "Where'd you sent them anyways?" Pyrrha asked.
"There was an M99 free in stock, thought I get it for Ruby, as a replacement for her SR-25. They're at the shooting range right now." I replied nonchalantly.
"You sure it's wise to send them unsupervised?"
"Unsupervised? Winter is with them."
"I meant someone who knows The Platform."
"Oh yeah, Mr. Foster is with em too."
"Oh no."
"Hey, have a little faith Pyrrha, I mean, what's the worse that could happen?"
"ALL MAINTAINANCE WORKERS GRAB A FIRE EXTINGUISHER, AND TRAINED FIRE WORKERS, WORK THE HOSES, THERE IS A FIRE IN THE SHOOTING RANGE."
*FIRE ALARM BLARING*
"Quick! The fire is spreading!"
"Shit! My mixtape's in there!"
"Who the fuck did this?!"
"I thought we were just testing Ruby's new sniper rifle…" Weiss said, as RWBY, Winter and Mr. Foster stared at the ensuing chaos. Ruby was admiring her new M99 AMR, the usual anime looking stars in her eyes were present. Weiss was staring at the fire with wide eyes, feet apart but her knees touching. Blake had her legs up against her chest, and her arms around them, her terrified gaze staring at nothing in particular. Yang, well, left hand on her hip, her right wielding Foster's husk cannon, clear grin on her face as she watched her doing become undone.
"WE NEED MORE WATER!"
"My mixtape's too lit!"
Winter wasn't even looking at the chaos, as her back was facing it, and she was face palming at the same time. Last, but not least, Mr. Foster was just staring at the fire, arms slumped to his sides, wondering how this all went downhill so quickly.
"It ain't coming out of my pocket." Foster walked up to Yang. "I'll be taking that back." As he spoke he quickly got his gun back from the blonde brawler, who only pouted in response. "Come on kids, let's go! I know for a fact that there isn't many party supplies and decorations on The Platform."
"How'd you know?" Blake asked, as they started their trek back to Rye's room.
"Tried to plan a welcome back party for the misses. That's how I found out." Foster answered back, still looking where they were going.
"Aaaaaaaand done!" Me and Pyrrha stared at our work, pride evident on our faces. On the kitchen wall, there was a birthday banner, but instead of happy birthday, I placed a piece of paper over 'birthday.' On said paper, it said 'first mission-ish,' so the whole thing said 'happy first mission-ish.'
And that was it for decorations… I'm so proud :D
Pyrrha worked on food… well… tried to.
"RYE! GET THE FIRE EXTINGUISHER NOW!"
"OH BOY! CAN'T WAIT TO HAVE CHARCOAL FOR DINNER."
"NOW WOULD BE PREFERABLE!"
So we she just got some pizza, drinks (not alcoholic of course), and a bit of take out from the main kitchen on The Platform. Luckily I gave Pyrrha a fair amount of money, so she can get something for all of us to eat. And a bit for herself too, as an apology for my earlier charcoal statement. Sorry Pyrrha.
We both looked at each other, with prideful smiles on our faces. I raise my hand up to Pyrrha, indicating a high five. Pyrrha was about to return the gesture….
Until the door slammed open.
*BAM*
Hitting me square in the face. Funnily enough, I'm sure the only thing of me that is visible is my outstretched hand, looking like the door was giving a high five.
"Oh look! The door is giving us a high five! Yay!"
Ruby high fived me, followed by many two other high fives. After them two, I got a high punch, courtesy of Yang. Then I heard a small giggle coming from Winter, as instead of a high five, she tenderly held my hand? I felt the soft skin of her hand, as she held mine for a moment, until letting go and entering the room. With the pain still emanating on my face, I heard an "Aw" coming from Pyrrha, as she opened the door. I was greeted with her signature smile, as she laughed at my misfortune, and gave me a hard high five.
Then I collapsed.
"And then she said…" Yang gestured for Blake to speak.
Blake just rolled her eyes as she shook her head, "Now that's a katana."
Everyone burst out into laughter, in the comfort of their seats. With two and a half empty boxes of pizza, empty oyster pails, and near empty cups with sodas in them, the briefing table was a complete mess. Team RWBY and Winter were all sitting on the sectional couch, all slouched as they relaxed from their training mission. Minus Winter, straight back and chest out, she looked like the epitome of royalty. While Pyrrha and I took a seat on the stool beside the kitchen counter. Its been eight hours since we came back from our successful mission, and we all were still in high spirits.
"So that's where that came from. Gross, but still funny. Ruby's growing up Yang, how's it feel?" I asked.
Yang scowled a bit, "As much as I love my dear little sis growing up to be a young woman, I still hold her innocent as a nation treasure!" Yang brightly said, as she hook one arm on Ruby's neck, hugging the poor reaper tight.
"I-I-IM DYI-ING!" Ruby exaggerated.
Everyone laughed a bit at the two sisters antics. As everyone settled down, and Yang released poor little Ruby, Blake spoke up.
"Speaking about protecting Ruby, Yang, don't you think you were a bit excessive with Rye earlier? When you quite literally pushed him out of the way?"
Yang then gave a nervous smile and a guilt ridden face. "Oh yeah, that, sorry Rye. I should've known you were only there to help her out. I might've been a bit too rough on ya."
I look at Blake and Yang, "Its alright Blake. I understand where Yang is coming from. Being an overprotective about her sister. I feel the same when it comes to Pyrrha." I said, as Pyrrha blushed at the comment.
"SEE?! Finally someone who gets me!" Yang exclaims, as she again wraps an arm around Ruby, who in turn is flapping her arms around in struggle.
"I feel the same way about Weiss, isn't that correct little sister?" Winter said proudly.
"You do?" Weiss said, in a hopeful voice. Only to realize her mistake as Winter starts to scowl at Weiss. Fumbling, she tries to correct herself. "O-Of course you do, that's what I love about you Winter!" Looking around, she saw the whole team struggling to not laugh at her response. "S-Shut up!" Weiss starts to wave her arms in the air.
"We didn't even say anything." Blake responded, with playful tone and a bemused expression. With Weiss only huffing in response. The huff alone, was enough for everyone to start laughing again. The Schnee sisters looked at each other, both smiling as they too started to giggle, knowing that this was all just some light hearted fun.
As the laughter once again settles, everyone sat in a moment of comfortable silence, content in letting the moment sink in.
"You know, I remembered I brought Remnant the Gam-"
"SO YOU HAD IT THE WHOLE TIME IN YOUR JOURNEY TO MISTRAL?!" Yang interrupted Ruby, who in return just smiled nervously as she tapped her two index fingers.
"U-u-um yeah, right now i-its where we're staying at." Ruby responded.
Ruby was startled when Yang started to chuckle, "Don't worry Rubes, I knew you had it this whole time. I was just bored sometimes, and wanted to play against dad."
Ruby pouted, feeling a bit bad for Yang, until I remembered something about Remnant the Game. "Hold on gals, I actually have something." I got everyone's attention, as a made my way to the closet. "You see, Remnant the Game is actually based on a board game, here on earth."
"Dirt!" Ruby called out.
"Psh." As I said that, I pull out 'Risk.' I walked back to the group, and gave the board game to Ruby, as she started to look at it. "Don't worry, maximum of six people can play, and me and Pyrrha played this a few times. So she can fill you gals in on how to play."
Ruby looked up at me, "This is so cool Rye! Thank you so much! But, you're not playing?"
I shake my head, "Nah, I'm too good and too competitive. Even if you guys are noobs, I'll still have a massive urge to defeat you without mercy." I laugh a bit, remembering Pyrrha's first games, all in which she lost because I was lusting for victory. She hated this game, until she got better at it. "Plus Rubes, I gotta clean the briefing table, for you gals can play."
"Thanks Rye." Pyrrha and Ruby said in unison, as they both started to unbox the board game. I started to stack the plates and cups, as I notice another pair of hands helping me out.
"You guys can start playing, I'll help Rye out with cleaning." Winter said, as she gathered the empty pizza boxes and the oyster pails.
"Thanks Winter." I said, as she gave me a nod.
"Ooooooo, you two better keep your hands to yourselves!" Yang said, as she once again wiggled her eyebrows. But she was quickly stopped when a pillow hit her face.
"Don't be absurd Xiao Long." Weiss said, as she helped Ruby set up the board game.
I smirk and shook my head. Kids these days, they're so weird. Then again, I'm kinda weird, in my own way at least. Anyways, I started to wash the plates and cups, as I heard the chatter between Pyrrha and RWBY, chatter that I'm sure Pyrrha had missed in the six months that she was here. It was so heartwarming to see, almost like reuniting a lost puppy to its owner. Her smile grew by the day, as she was now happier for longer periods of time. Seeing her down in the dumps a few months ago, struggling to pick herself up, and now found hope. Hope of seeing her team back in Remnant, hope of seeing her family again, and finally, hope in see the love of her life once again. It can brings tears of happiness just thinking about it, thinking how she'll react, and also how Jaune will react. Its too bad that I most likely won't see them ever again once they head back, won't see their heartfelt reunion that you only get in fanfiction. Then there's me, just me.
Just me, alone… fucking hell, I really don't like that word.
I finish the dishes, and look back at the young women, as they idly chatted and had fun playing Risk. By the looks of it, Ruby and Yang quickly picked up the game, as they were now playing generals and had taken up their personas. Damn, never thought I'd see a Soviet Ruby Rose, it's only fitting because of the colour scheme. Blake looked like she knew what she was doing, but was playing more casually then Ruby and Yang. Finally, Weiss was dead confused, as Pyrrha was clearly trying to teach her what each number on the dice would mean in her turn. I could tell that Pyrrha wasn't irritated at the Heiresses multiple questions, her smile never faltering. Her patience alone, would make her a fantastic teacher, I mean, if Jaune is any indication then…
Wait a minute, Winter isn't with them. I look to my left, to see the sliding door leading to the balcony was slightly ajar. I walked up to close it, but then I notice that someone was actually in the balcony. Opening the sliding door so that I could get through, I join Winter. She was staring at the night sky, clearly admiring the moon in its entirety.
Coming up to her left, she never took her eyes away from the sight, as she acknowledges my precense. "As you may know, our moon in Remnant is actually shattered. Even though I've been here for almost a whole week, the sight of the whole moon still leaves me, well… breathless." Winter says, as her arms rested behind her back, as she stood straight, tall and proud.
I smile at her thoughts, resting my hands on the railings. "Hm, yeah, I'd imagine that if I'd ever visit Remnant, that I'll be saying the same thing. Well… switched, I'd be admiring your shattered moon."
Winter nodded, "By the way, I really appreciate what you did on the Killing Floor. You really weren't lying when you said that you'd be taking care of me and my sister. Not only that, but you did take care of all of us actually. I really appreciate it." We were side-by-side, as I was casually leaning on the railing, and she was still in her professional posture. With a bit of her tough outer shell breaking, she nudges me. "I mean it, thank you."
I smile a bit at her, "Well, I did promise to look after you two, didn't I? Plus it wasn't a big deal, squad leaders have to look out for their own right?" She smiled a bit, but looked down. She looked a bit conflicted, as if she wanted to say more. "Speaking about giving another a helping hand, well only the hand part actually. But anyways, what was up earlier? When you entered the room." I asked, talking about her weird high five.
She looks up to me, and smiles. "You caught that huh?"
I shrug, "Kinda hard not to notice."
She avoids my gaze, as she stares into the distance. "Sorry if it made you uncomfortable."
Feeling a bit bad for her, I placed a hand on her shoulder, "Hey now, it didn't, don't be all flustered." I chuckle a bit. "It was just noticeable, that's all, and I wanted to ask." Winter took a few moments to gather her thoughts. Clearly, she looked conflicted, maybe conflicted about whether she should tell me what's plaguing her, or not.
Finally, she looks straight at me, locking me with her blue eyes. Her whole body relaxed, as her arms fell to her sides, and her entire body seems to be slouching a bit. Before she could speak, I had to make something clear. "You know, you don't have to tell me anything personal right now. I mean, it's understandable that you wouldn't spill a lot to a guy you just met almost a week ago. But just so that you know, you can talk to me, I really only want to help you gals, and I'll do my best to ensure that all of you return home, safely if I may add. Squad leader has to look out for their own, right?" Winter giggled, as I continued. "By the way, thanks for relaxing. Glad to know that you're learning that you don't have to be professional and sophisticated all the time. Makes me feel like I'm in board meeting, or something."
Winter smiles, "It is nice to be casual at times. And its quite alright, I am comfortable around you now. You are trustworthy, well… to me at least." Winter face then turned serious, as she took a deep breath. "I guess earlier, when I said thank you, I wasn't saying thank you just because you looked after us. But because, you treated me, like me, Winter." She had a small yet bright smile as she finished. Clearly, I was confused about what she said, but it sure as hell sounded oddly familiar. Before I could ask, she raised her hands up. "Wait, wait, let me explain." She again took another deep breath. "You know, one may think that living in a wealthy family, would be like a dream come true. You can get anything one can dream of, and the next day it'll be there. Being treated like a princess, and literally living in a palace. But in truth, living under father's house, was more of a glorified prison." Winter's hands balled up into a fist. A tight and intense fist, as her fists started to shake. "I was a noble, the one percent, and everything I did, was literally because of my father. He controlled everything in my life, and I hated it." She gasped as I placed my hands on her tightening fists, calming her instantly.
"Yeah, I saw when watching the show. Weiss didn't look like she was enjoying her time at all, felt bad that her father is like that." I try to sooth Winter.
She only sighed, "Yes, she told me. And I swear, I will make sure he gets what he deserves for slapping her. I mean, who does that to their own daughter!?"
"Hey, at least she's with her team, and dare I say it, family. Even you're here too." I say, getting a small smile from her.
"Yeah, you're not wrong." She pauses a bit, taking a deep breath before continuing. "Anyways, yes, I was a noble through and through. Had proper etiquette, table manners and bunch of other royal-like mannerisms. Worse of all, everyone treated me like Winter Schnee, heiress. Not just Winter, the girl who is human, just like anyone else, but with a title. I felt isolated from the world, as no one but Weiss, and probably my mother, actually made an attempt to get to know me better. I was just another noble to court, another Schnee to impress and use me, or another Schnee to hate. I felt alone." The mention of the word already made me sigh, but luckily Winter somehow didn't notice. She had to pause, making me realize that I was on thin ice. She took a deep breath before continuing, "As I felt the world pushing me away, in a way, I grew more distant as well. Mix that with the etiquette class and other such mannerism, I was basically your regular Schnee. Cold, aristocratic, eloquent, I basically wore a mask, one that hid so much of me and my emotions." Winter took another pause, before continuing. "I wanted an escape, but I also wanted to still be part of my family. In a way, I still loved them, Weiss for sure, and mom too, maybe even Whitley." She laughs a bit when she says the younger Schnee's name. I couldn't help but chuckle a bit with her, agreeing that Whitley really isn't the best person in the world.
"But in the end of the day, I knew from the depths of my heart, that this life is mine." She had a wide smile as she looked at me, "And yes, I pulled that out of Weiss' song." We both had a good laugh, it is a good song, one that I have on my phone actually. What? It actually sounds pretty good, along with a dozen other songs from RWBY. "Anyways, so when I was old enough, I made the decision that after I graduated from the Academy, I'd join the Military."
"Hm, I'd imagine that even before you made that decision, that you and your father weren't in good terms." I said, Winter responded with a nod.
"Yes, part of me did it to spite him. What I didn't expect him to do was to almost disown me." Winter looked down, to sea below. Her posture looked almost depressed. "Those were some of the scariest days of my life. Almost losing the only people closest to me, my family, Weiss, my mother. Not only that, but the media firestorm that would follow, making my life a living hell. All because of my father." Winter looked back at the whole moon before her. "But, thank Oum for my mother, she was able to convince him otherwise. So afterwards, father didn't disown me, but I had to face a consequence and pay for it. So he stripped my title as heiress…" There was a slight pause, as she shuttered. "… and force me to have to pick one of the many suitors he sends my way, to marry."
Whoa, "Whoa." My thoughts became words.
"Yes, but I kept denying every single suitor he sent to me. After all, even though I wasn't the heiress, I was still a Schnee. Still a noble, and I thought I ran away from that title when I entered the academy and joined military. But no, it didn't. People either wanted to be friends with me because of my last name, or a lot of boys will do their best to flirt and get me out of my pants, or others would just down right disdain me. When I joined the military, it just reinforced my persona, as a strict, cold and distant officer. Don't get me wrong, the military life actually suits me, and I like it. But much like everything else in life, it isn't perfect. My only rock through all this was Weiss." She looks back through the glass sliding door, to see the rest of team Remnant enjoying their game of Risk. With Weiss smiling and laughing.
"Did you tell Weiss about the whole marriage thing?" I asked.
Winter then turns her attention back to me, with a sad frown. "Weiss has her own problems to deal with. I don't want to burden her with my own."
"But your both sisters, your meant to be there for each other. Not one for the other."
Winter sighs. "I know Rye, but it isn't that simple… not to me." Winter closed her eyes, as she took a deep breath. "I was naïve to think that I could finally make some real friends when I escaped my household, turns out it just followed me." She continued on.
She then took my hands onto hers, as she looked right at me. "That's why I wanted to say thank you." She had a smile as she said that. Under the moonlight, she looked so heavenly. Pristine, perfect skin, gorgeous white hair and blue eyes. Her smile in the moonlight made her look, really cute actually. She shined in the moonlight, as she practically glowed on the spot. In front of me, was Winter, not Winter Schnee or Specialist Schnee, as she mentioned before. "Ever since we came here, you treated us like a friend. Our conversations in those in-between days, you spoke so casually towards me, and treated me like another person, and not some sort of goddess to love or hate. Not to mention you're really caring, even if your teasing does reminds me of Branwen."
I cringe, "Ouch." I remembered her earlier comments about the dusty old crow.
Winter smirked, "Don't worry, you're much more respectful then the drunkard. But then again, you're lack of professionalism do remind me of him."
"Umm, can we keep going on the compliments instead?" I jokingly said, in which Winter giggled, after which she happily obliged.
"Okay, the point is that, you treated me like me, you saw me for who I am. Hell, besides all those who tried the court me, and Ironwood, you're the only guy who I've talked to the most, so far. And since I'm telling you all of this, the closest as well. In a weird way, I kind of never been happier in my life. I do miss mother but, we're working on going back home anyways. And I'm with a happier Weiss, a Weiss that is far superior then the one first going into Beacon. I'm so proud of her, it makes me happy to see her like this." She looks back at Weiss, through the sliding door. "To see her free."
I smile at the proud older sister, "Yeah, she definitely came a long way since her time at Beacon. Let's not forget to mention that, she can nail summoning now."
Winter nodded as she turned back to me. "That is true. I remember all those times where she'd always complain to me about how it was so difficult to do. Her frustration and anger turned into tears when she was younger. Now, it just turned into pure will and determination, something I admire and love about her. I believe she's turning out to be the greatest Schnee in all of history."
I turn to Winter, "Hey, don't count yourself out." I place a hand on her shoulder. "She had a lot of support to get where she was, and where she's about to go. Weiss couldn't have done it without her team, her friends, and most importantly, you." Now, she was listening to me more intently then before. "Winter, she holds you so dearly in her heart. Weiss holds you in such high regard, you are her inspiration, and I'm sure you were one of the leading reasons why she wanted to become a Huntress. You got her to the position she currently is right now. And besides, you were the first person to care and comfort her, when she needed it, and when no one else gave it to her, not even her father. It was you, and till this very day, and even in the far future, you will always be there for her." I let go of her shoulder, as my hands fall to my sides. "Weiss may become the greatest Schnee in history, one that will change the world for the better. But she couldn't achieve that if it wasn't for you, Winter Schnee. A loving person who is passionate, caring for her sister, and devoted till the very end. Winter, to simply put it, you're awesome."
Winter looked like she was at a loss of words. Her eyes shimmering, as by the looks, tears threatened to fall. But before I could see a waterfall, she took a step towards me, and wrapped her arms around me. Her face dug into my chest, as I heard the occasional sniffle. I return the gesture, as I wrapped my arms around her, giving her a protective hug. We stood like this god knows how long, as my attention was only towards the woman in my arms.
It was later on that Winter broke the silence, "That is the kindest and sincerest thing anyone has said to me, thank you." She took a step back, giving both of us some room to compose ourselves. She wiped a few stray tears off her face, as she focused her attention to me, with the warmest smile I've ever seen, from a supposed ice queen. "It also makes me happy that you're here." Winter sighed as she turned her attention back to the moon as she leaned onto the railing. "I can't believe I had to go all the way to another world, just to find someone like you. But I'm truly thankful to have met you Rye."
"And I you, I'm glad to have finally met the real Winter. By the way, I really like your name, it also helps that I really like the season of Winter as well. I prefer it over summer, love the cold." I join her by her side, as I mimicked her, I too leaned on the railing.
Winter giggled at my comment. "Me too, not that I'm narcissistic or anything, but it does snow a lot in Atlas, and I've always enjoyed it."
"That makes to of us then." I smile, as we both turn our attention to one another. I stared at her blue eyes, as she stared back at mine. Both of us studying each other's faces, looking for-wait, are we getting closer?
"Ana! They're about to kiss!"
"Vraiment Rae? Be quiet!"
A pair of shushed voices stop us from getting any closer, as I lifted my head up above Winter, to see the neighbouring balcony. I could see the eyes of Ana Larive and Rae Higgins, as they were poking out from the balcony railing.
Winter froze as well (ha ha! Yang would be so proud), as she too turned to face the neighbouring balcony. A blush forming on her face, realizing that they weren't alone.
I call out to them, "What the hell Ana? Rae?"
They both got up, clearly in their pyjamas, as they looked a bit guilty. "We're sorry Rye, I just came out here to cool off my hot chocolate when I saw you two hugging. And honestly, I ship it, you two look so adorable right now!" Rae squealed, as Ana looked at us with a grin.
"Too bad Rae spoiled the show, I wanted to see how far it could've gone. Maybe some action?" Ana said, as she leaned closer to our balcony.
Winter blushed, as she looked away from the two, and looking flustered toward my chest. "Oh dear, Rye please."
I pat her shoulder, "I know Winter." I look back at the duo, "Get back inside you two, before I throw both your asses overboard."
Ana only laughed in response, as they both made their way back inside. "Careful there Carpner, I'm sure your girlfriend over there wouldn't want you touching anyone else's ass, other than hers."
I cringe, as I avoid anyone else's gaze. I heard Rae giggle at Ana's response, as she skipped her way back inside. "Rye's got a girlfriend! Rye's got a girlfriend!"
"Oh my god." I mutter to myself, pinching the bridge of my nose. Once I refocused, I notice that me and Winter were now at a safe distance from one another. Clearly we were both embarrassed to what had just happened.
"Umm, perhaps we should head back inside." Winter broke the silence, as I nodded in agreement.
"Agreed, before anymore mishaps can occur." Before I could start to move, Winter quickly and precisely, kissed me on the cheek, as she quickly back peddled and rushed back inside. I stood there, blushing and staring dumbfounded at where Winter used to be. Wow, she really is awesome. I shake out of my stupor and walk back inside.
I found the girls watching YouTube videos, not their show, but just video games and other random videos. I walk up to the couch, realizing that it was full, and the only available seat was an empty stool, next to Winter. I sat down next to her, as she blushed a bit from my close proximity. Don't worry, I'm blushing too, a tad bit more noticeable than Winter's. But she isn't doing anything to separate herself from me, as I figured that we're both comfortable within each other's presence.
"Hey Yang, what's rule 34?" Did Ruby really just say that? Oh no…
"I don't know Ruby, that doesn't sound familiar to anything back at Remnant. Pyrrha?" WHERE THE FUCK IS THE WIRELESS KEYBOARD?!
"I not sure, wanna che-" THERE IT IS! PYRRHA'S HOLDING IT!
"NNNNNOOOO!" I jump Pyrrha, snatching the wireless keyboard from her.
Note: So about that upload schedule. Right… um… I may do it every two weeks of less now, even though it's been almost three weeks, I think, since the last chapter. I'm actually terribly sorry about the wait, I will try my best to get these chapter out there.
If you're wondering why there was a lot of dialogue, is because one goal I want to achieve in this story, is the characters. One thing RWBY does very well are the characters, I love them and they're so memorable in their own way. Since this story is also a RWBY story, I want to include that. This isn't just a story about action and to answer the question that is in everyone's mind, what happens if Yang goes toe-to-toe with a Fleshpound, hell, that Fleshpound doesn't stand a chance. But at the same time, it is also a story set in killing floor, so the action is also needed, much like how the action in RWBY is so well animated and choreographed. So I just wanted to put that out there, the story is also about the characters, their own struggles and development. But since this is my first fanfic, I'll do my best to show that here.
Here's a fun fact, did you know, that originally for this story, that Neo was the one who went to earth, instead of Winter. But I had to rethink it because it made more sense that someone with a military background, would fit in more with this story.
Anyways, thank you for reading this chapter! Like always, if you spot any grammatical or spelling errors, I do deeply apologize for it, and will continue to work on them. So, till the next chapter! Peace!
UPDATE: I re-read this chapter and found a lot of spelling and grammatical errors. I want to deeply apologize for it, and I will hopefully be more observant in the future.