Author's Note: All right we deeply appropriate the comments to try and help the story and I always know my grammar isn't great, I am sorry for it.
I wish all of you will just enjoy the story more and let some of it go a bit. I would appreciate that a lot. Also as the story develops you can say more of the stuff you like about it. Namely since my beta reader and I both worked really hard on this story and we love to know what you think of it. Especially the Jaune/Ruby romance!

For those who questioned it ... I find out as long as it's used properly you can start sentences with "And" and "But"…I questioned it when I reviewed someone else's story and I thought it was wrong too. So I am letting everyone know that as well. '


Racing through the quiet night several birds flew into the starry sky as a red blur whisked past them leaving behind a trail of rose petals. Ruby raced up the nearest tree and landed quietly on the stone surface of her balcony. She peered into the window gazing about the dark room and let out a breath of relief. Good no one was in there, perhaps Blake didn't notice she sneaked out. Ruby quietly opened the sliding door wincing at the creaks it made, and tiptoed inside. Closing the door behind her, Ruby looked around in the darkness once more and turned on her bedside lamp. With the room lit she hung her cape in her closet and changed into her favorite silk nightgown. Ruby then gathered her huntress clothes off the floor and put them in the hamper, maybe she could beat the maids to cleaning her clothes for once. Man it's sure been a long day, Ruby thought to herself. Stretching out her arms above her head Ruby trudged her way to her bed and burrowed under her covers wrapping them around herself relishing in the cozy warmth.

Reaching her arm out Ruby turned off the light plunging her room into darkness again. Ruby fell onto her back with a plop bouncing slightly onto her mattress her arms supporting the back of her head as she stared up at her ceiling. She attempted to close her eyes but she couldn't sleep her mind wandered and replayed everything that happened with Jaune. He was different from anyone she had ever met. It was more due to the fact he didn't care that she was from the upper class or that she was rich, he treated her like a normal person. It was something that she never really got to experience as she was always treated like a princess or a stepping stool to climb up the ladder of society. Grunting Ruby turned on her right side curling up tightly into a ball, she wondered if Jaune got home safe the forest is a dangerous place to be in especially at night. Ruby had half a mind to go out again and see if he got home safe until she remembered his home address. Guess I'll have to call him back in the morning to see if he's alright. Closing her eyes Ruby was brought back to her little meeting with her new friend. Perched on top of the fallen log Jaune sitting on the ground one of his hands intertwining with her's. Smiling from the memory Ruby was lulled to sleep.

The next morning, sunlight from the balcony beamed out of the window startling Ruby from her pleasant sleep. Grunting in irritation Ruby grabs her pillow from underneath her head to cover her eyes. Blessed darkness and the cool side of the pillow comfort her; Ruby was close to falling asleep again when she suddenly remembered she snuck out last night. Ruby sat upright quickly in panic and promptly shrieked into her pillow. Blake and her father always seemed to know whenever she snuck out it's such a pain dealing with their lectures, "Ruby, you know it's dangerous to go out alone especially at night!" They would be questioning her whereabouts and she really didn't want to deal with answering their questions. She just wanted to get through the day like it was any other but she knew that wasn't going to be the case. Rolling out of bed Ruby got herself ready like every other morning with a shower, choosing a standard dress and boots, and then brushing her hair.

Today however Ruby felt rebellious, gazing in the mirror Ruby was pleased. She wore a white blouse with puffy sleeves, a red velvet corset that wrapped around her shoulders, a puffy black skirt with red trimming black stockings, and her combat boots. Her hair was also completely let down brushing her shoulder blades. Let her governesses be annoyed that Ruby's dress wasn't "ladylike"; she was dressed and thus presentable in her eyes. Satisfied Ruby pulled her shoulders back, held her head high, and marched out of her room to start the day.

Ruby knew Blake would certainly be wondering where she was last night. As her protector if was Blake's job to shadow and guard Ruby from any and all threats even though Ruby is capable enough to handle any danger that lurked nearby. It's the reason she went through huntress training, well that and it's mandatory. Scrubbing her eyes in frustration Ruby started thinking of a possible story to cover up her tracks. But what excuse could she possibly make this time? She knew it had to be believable. It has to be something they knew she would do, such as fighting the grimm. Everyone knew that she loved to fight them and she was already planning on sneaking out to train with Jaune. She was just leaving his name out. After all their friendship was a secret, so Ruby was telling everyone the truth but omitting him entirely from the conversation. But how many times could Ruby keep up that excuse? Even she knew that her reason for sneaking out isn't solely to fight as many grimm as possible. Maybe she could say she needed to clear her head? Get some alone time away from the stuffy halls of her prisoner mansion. Ruby was so lost in thought she wasn't aware of an all too familiar presence sneak up on her. "Good morning Miss Ruby, I hoped you had pleasant dreams." Blake said in her most passive aggressive voice.

"GAAAAAAAAAAAH! Oh... heeeeey there Blake. Uh morning, what are you up too hehe?" Ruby startled and flustered greeted her bodyguard, Blake being cautious as usual didn't take any chances surveyed the hall. Blake had to be sure no one was invading the area; Ruby looked on at her bodyguard and friend with concern and exasperation. Did Blake really think the two of them together couldn't take on an enemy? Blake was a very observant person and it came with the perks of being a Faunus. She can see and hear things a normal human couldn't due to her animal traits. Ruby saw it as a blessing and a curse as she could never really sneak around to well without Blake knowing it. Once Blake deemed the area safe she walked closer to Ruby grabbed her by the ear and dragged her into the nearest sitting room for privacy.

"Ow ow ow Blake, Blake! You're hurting me you're hurting me! That's my ear let go please ow, waaah!" Once Ruby was inside the room Blake did as commanded and let Ruby go. Unfortunately gravity proved once again to be Ruby's enemy as the momentum of being dragged sent her sprawling to the ground. Once Ruby had her bearings she started rubbing her now red ear and gave and sent an annoyed look Blake's way. Blake gave Ruby her most unsympathetic glare her arms folded stiffly over her chest.

"I'm very sorry Miss Rose but I have no time for your antics. Where were you last night? You know it's my job to watch over you but I can't exactly do that when you run off without telling me. I got an earful from your father last night thanks to your little stunt, again." Blake kept her eyes trained on Ruby, who pulled herself to her feet, and tapped her right foot waiting for an answer. It was like unfortunately common for Ruby to disappear without any notice, so that didn't bother her. It was the fact she went off in the middle of the night, outside the mansion that caused problems. There was more danger out there especially during the night, the grimm aren't as easy to kill their dark fur allowing them to blend in with their surroundings. Also the evil huntsman and huntresses that have strayed from their solemn duty would seek to capture Ruby for ransom or political gain. While she was very beloved by the people, there were others that wouldn't hesitate to use her for their own purposes. It was Blake's duty as a bodyguard and as a close friend to protect Ruby; she didn't seem to realize how worried she was. Not to mention her boss the general usually took his worry out on her for not doing her job correctly which only gave Blake more grievances than she deserved.

One of Ruby's flaws was that she was very trusting of others that may not always have her best interests. Not everyone would be a friend but Ruby continued with the belief all people were good and she could save the one' who weren't. Ruby wasn't fond of being cooped up she wanted her freedom, which developed in her infuriating habit of running away. If she just brought Blake along with her they'd face fewer consequences.

Ruby seemed to shrink under Blake's cold glare rocking back and forth on her feet. "Where um, was I last night? You want to know where I was?" Ruby repeated as she played with the red trim of her skirt out of nervousness. "I was outside training . . .and fighting the grimm! Hehe oh you know how much I love hunting down monsters!" Ruby quickly came up with as an excuse even if it was the same one she used nearly every time; she had to think of something that anyone would believe she would do. "I wanted to get out, let off some steam because-because I was so angry and they were near the border. So I thought why not just have a little fun and you know make it safer? You know less grimm will be out now so there, you're welcome." Ruby finished with a triumphant smile. Ruby knew she was a terrible liar even though she was only half-telling the truth as it's something that Jaune and her planned to do anyway. She only could take a deep breath, hoping she believed in the story she was telling her.

"Ma'am with all due respect, you know the risks. You're not supposed to go outside alone especially if no one knows you're out there!" Blake's reprimand turned more into a growl towards the end, sharp canine teeth revealed in her irritation. Ruby seemed to shrink back in shame gripping tightly the lace of her dress. She stood shoulders hunched her head down waiting for a verbal beat down, it was the same thing each time she ran away to escape the prison of her upper class life. Despite knowing what always came Ruby couldn't bring herself to stop. Her desire for freedom and be able to do whatever she wanted outside on her own and not be restrained like a pet was just too much to give up. Steeling herself Ruby stood up back straight and looked Blake head on prepared to take her verbal lashing.

Blake strut closer to Ruby inches apart her anger and fear on full display. "Just what in Oum's name were you thinking? This isn't like before where you were out for an hour or two. NO! You were out all night! And for what! To go and run around dancing with death taunting of your safety, you're not invincible Miss. Ruby. Look what happened to Yang, your mother! Skilled huntresses who could take on hordes of grimm overcome in and weren't prepared and it was no longer the same as before, they were gone in an instant. I don't care how much you hate it here Ruby Rose. I don't care if this manor is smothering you every moment of the day it's not worth blowing off steam at the cost of your life!" Blake's tirade continued mercilessly voice never going high than a whisper. Ruby almost wished Blake would shout at her, this cold quiet whispering of rage was almost too much to bear. All of a sudden Blake's entire form seemed to be spent; her shoulder's sagged and shook for a moment.

"Miss Rose i don't think you understand how worried I was. You're not just my charge you're one of my closest friends. I care for you so much and nothing, nothing is worth finding you in pieces the next morning gone to the monsters because I wasn't there for you. Because I-I...I wasn't there for Yang. We almost lost her that day; we lost your mother one of the kindest people I've ever known." Blake suddenly pulled Ruby into her arms, surprisingly gentle, and held her close. "I never want that to happen to you too. I can handle prissy upperclassmen sneering and criticizing me, I can even handle Mr. Xiao Long ranting at me because I know he's just as worried about you. I can't handle and hope I never have to worry about failing you like I've already disappointed everyone else. Please don't do that. If you have to get out just ask them to come along or at the very least tell them where you're going okay?" Blake didn't cry but her trembling voice and shaky arms told Ruby that she was close to falling apart.

Ruby took everything that Blake threw at her. Slowly she wrapped her arms around her guardian's back and buried her face in Blake's shoulder. "Oh Blake, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry I never realized...I never knew you felt that way. You may feel like you failed but i can assure you haven't. I always feel safe when I'm with you." Stepping back slowly Ruby tried to hold back a bit of tears, to explain without giving too much away. "I know I shouldn't run off, and I was out longer than usual. It's just, I had to get away clear my head everything's changing and I'm scared. This wedding has been eating at the back of my mind I wanted to feel like I still had some control and being outside with just my scythe and the grimm it felt normal." Ruby knew it was still a lame excuse, though Blake looked more like her old calm and collected self.

Blake sighed putting a hand on Ruby's shoulder to ease the tension as she spoke more softly. "I understand that really I do, but you know you're not alone in this I'm always here if you need to talk." Ruby nodded except the person she thought to go to wasn't standing before her. She folds her arms walking towards the window turning her head away. "I suppose I can let you go out and fight the grimm . . . at least until the wedding." Blake winks before giving off a smile to Ruby. "I can't see you suffer like this for the rest of your life. As long as you promise to be careful and let me know."

"I will Blake. I promise." Ruby goes up and embraces Blake gently rubbing the back of her friends head. Ruby gives a slight sniffle now that the tension has died down.

"Oh come now don't start crying on me now Miss Ruby." Blake whispers softly smiling wipes away Ruby's tear. Turning on her heel Blake begins to leave the room calling over her shoulder. "Oh before I forget, you're father wants to see you. He says it's essential." Ruby groaned internally, she already knew what was coming. This would be a long morning.


General Taiyang sat back in his chair working on paperwork, sifting through various files and reports that were sent to him. He could easily do this at his base office but with the wedding and Ruby's stubborn, but familiar outings, taking place he thought it better to do his work at home. Taiyang was used to stress. Being the general of a powerful kingdom, with a daughter now one of his soldiers he was used to it. However his younger daughter Ruby was now the cause of new stress, she hadn't been herself lately. Taiyang had figured this was due to her impending marriage to Kai Li. This was made even worse after she disappeared last night without anyone noticing. He wasn't angry at Ruby; well maybe a little it was only natural for a father to worry about his daughter he just wanted to make sure everything was fine. Ruby hardly did anything without a good reason. He couldn't help but laugh to himself it actually it reminded him of his beloved wife, Summer. Ruby was very much like her mother; she became a famous huntress over time and was lucky enough to fall in love with her during their marriage. He saw so much of his Ruby in her including her penchant for doing reckless acts and overall keeping him busy.

A tentative knock sounded on his door before slowly creaking open. Through the slight opening Tai's youngest daughter popped her head and shyly look into his office. "You called for me, Dad?" Tai did his best to put on a stern and furious look but it was so hard when she looked so adorable and innocent. Ruby gingerly entered her father's office closing the door behind her and stood in front of the large mahogany desk hands daintily clasped in front of skirt. If Blake got severely chewed out just what did he have in store for her? Taiyang was a generally patient man one of the most understanding and accommodating men Ruby knew. But even she knew that could go so far.

"Yes, there's something I wanted to talk to you about." Tai motioned his hand gesturing his daughter to come closer. He set about organizing his work putting it away so he could give his full attention to Ruby.

"Sure, what is it?" Ruby questioned as she lifted up her dress to sit in the chair that was across from her father's desk. At least with her father, she didn't have to act all ladylike in his presence. Ruby knew she could be her true self, not the proper little lady everyone wanted her to be, Ruby was just his little, awkward socially inept little girl.

"Well it's the things I've been hearing around the town." Taiyang had put his pen down threading his fingers together his chin. "I heard you were dancing with one my soldiers at the Masked Gala the other night." Wait that's it? Was he not going to mention her sneaking out? To be fair this wasn't Ruby's first time but he always gave her a stern lecture about "safety" and "it's dangerous alone at night" the usual stuff. Ruby wasn't about to mention that if she could avoid it but now she was presented with this again? Oum help her she wished people would shut up about it already. Yes she danced with another man; strike her down for not spending the night with Mr. Two Left Feet. Ruby was swinging the chair back and forth like a rocking chair. She stopped when she saw Tai's unamused stare and nervously lowered her chair to its normal position. Resting her arms on the cold, wooden desk and gently did little kicks on the other side Ruby pondered how to answer her father. Though it wasn't really a big deal, to his knowledge it was just a common soldier. Ruby decided to be casual nonchalant or the best she could manage.

"Yes . . ." Ruby replies looking her father head on.

Ruby grew uncomfortable with Tai's statements, why did she have to be smitten if she had fun with someone else? "I'm sorry Dad but I don't know his name." Ruby lied. She hated not telling the truth especially to her own father but she had to protect Jaune's identity. No one could know about their friendship. Their type of relationship was frowned upon by both the upper and lower classes.

"You don't know his name? Didn't you ask him, sweetie?" Tai raised an eyebrow in question. His youngest daughter was apparently close with one of his soldiers now how was he supposed to find him? All he wanted was for her to be happy, Tai wasn't exactly thrilled with the arranged marriage setup for Ruby but even he wasn't above the law. Yang was fulfilling her service requirement that left Ruby as the only one to be married off.

"No, I didn't think it was important. Besides who says I'm smitten huh? I just needed a breather and the guy and I started talking and before i knew it we spent nearly the whole night together. I'm sorry if it looked bad." She was trying to sound as innocent as possible about the whole situation. It was mostly so her father wouldn't ask so many questions about it.

"Oh no sweetheart, I'm not saying that it's just what I've heard through the rumor mill." Taiyang backtracked not wanting to upset his daughter she must be tired of hearing this. He sighed staring down at his little girl. She's grown up so much, still is Tai wishes he could beg time to slow down but it was as useless as trying to restrain Ruby. "Also you know I don't care about such pretentious nonsense I just thought I'd ask is all. Well that's too bad I would have loved to meet the young man that won my daughter over." He half-joked as he wasn't sure or not Ruby was telling the truth about her feelings. She certainly could be lying for his benefit. But if Ruby was interested in one of his soldiers...well Tai wouldn't oppose.

"Well no man has really stolen my heart dad. You're certainly imagining things." Ruby softly tells Taiyang her cheeks redden, she held closed fist to her chest closing her eyes taking several soft deep breaths.

Ruby sat put out with puffed cheeks and crossed arms. She was doing her best to look annoyed but it wasn't having the desired effect, all Tai saw was his precious baby. Everything about her reminded him of his wife Summer, from her appearance to her personality and some of mannerisms. Wistfully and full of pride Tai murmured softly, "You're so much like your mother." Taiyang looks Ruby up and down with a warm smile. He then gets up and places a gentle kiss on her forehead and lightly squeezing Ruby's shoulder. "I have a meeting with the other council members. Just promise me you won't do anything to dangerous." The last bit was concern in his voice as his face drifted from a smile to a frown. Oh shoot well there goes the possibility he forgot about Ruby's little adventure.

Slightly wincing and crumbling under his stern look Ruby held up her hand over her heart and vigorously nodded "Yes sir I understand. Also not that I'm complaining but I thought you'd be more...well...ticked off."

Tai lightly chuckles and rubs Ruby's head messing up her hair. "Hehe well I was but I have a sneaking suspicion Blake did the job of scolding for me. So I'll just ask nicely for you to please, please stay put at least for today. And tonight." Tai added as an afterthought. He knew Ruby longed for freedom that she would sneak off to the borders again. Still a father can dream his child will listen for once.

"I promise dad." Ruby gave one last smile to her father before he left the room.


General Taiyang's chauffeur drove him out to City Hall through the tumbling busy streets of Vale. Tai listlessly fingered the leather of his briefcase; anything to keep his mind off how unbearably boring this would end up. That or how frustrating this would be? The council was comprised of the most intelligent, experienced, and level-headed members of Vale could offer. Sometimes the conflicting personalities in the room could give him an absolute headache when these meetings prolonged. The driver pulled up to the stone steps jarring Tai out of his thoughts, taking a deep breath he made his way to the meeting hall to discuss the pressing matters. They needed to be dealt with as soon as possible. He could hear the sounds of arguments and yelling already. He didn't even enter the meeting and Tai already knew that he was entering the middle of a war zone. Just great. Pushing the large twin doors open Tai was unsurprised to see Qrow and Glynda already at each other's throats. Not even thirty seconds in and they were one insult away from pulling out their weapons. A new record.

Tai often wondered how they even got anything done at these meetings. They normally tried to one up each other as they were polar opposites with different viewpoints and ways of approaching a problem. Qrow has traveled around on his missions while Goodwitch just stays behind to teach the students at the academy. Both seasoned huntsmen but different experiences made them each believe they knew best.

Glynda Goodwitch appears to be a middle-aged woman that has very light-blonde hair tied back in a bun with curls hanging down the sides of her face. Her eyes are bright green with wisdom and patience which was currently thinning at this moment. Glynda was a valued huntress for many years graduating top of her class alongside Qrow and Tai before spending a few years teaching future Huntsmen and Huntresses the ways of combat. Glynda has been a trusted member of the council for three years now and a top advisor to Tai when planning battle strategies.

Qrow Branwen, a tall, sturdily built man with graying black, spiky hair, red eyes, and slight stubble along his jawline. With a red, tattered cloak to any passerby on the street he looks like a bum, smelling of alcohol and being drunk most of the time wasn't helping much. Despite that Qrow was one of Tai's most capable soldiers going on many of the high risk missions to get intel on any enemies that try to overthrow what little peace they had left. Qrow is a master huntsman, fiercely loyal and fought side by side with Tai for many years since their schooldays at the academy. Tai knew he could trust Qrow on and off the battlefield with his life, except in serious situations with his sanity such as now.

"Glynda, I am not one of your students quit trying to pull that 'there's nothing wrong out there' nonsense. I've seen what the grimm can do I know there's someone out there trying to destabilize our foundations and it's seeping into the cracks drawing the monsters closer. . ." Qrow drunkenly scolds her finishing off his tirade with a swig of his flask.

"You're just a crazy old drunk! I'm not saying something isn't provoking the increase in grimm attacks, what I am saying is you've provided no proof what or who could be doing this and how? And quite frankly I don't trust your gut feeling when you lose it after a hangover." Glynda snaps back at Qrow, when she turns her back Qrow mockingly mimics her speech with his hand making a childish face. Glynda, after taking a calming breath comes back to the table. "You really think anyone would take the liberty to spy on the upper class with the grimm attacks increasing? That's the more important task to worry about right now. The grimm are increasing in strength… they're pushing back against our borders and overtaking villages faster than we can dispense Huntsmen to clear them out. We shouldn't be focusing on some imaginary spy when huntsman and huntresses are getting killed every . . . single . . . day." Glynda enunciates her point by smacking her riding crop against the table with each word.

"And you're an uptight old hag." Qrow snaps back at her. Both adults shoot to their feet teeth bared in anger. A hint of metal could be scene in the overhanging light as Qrow started pulling out his sword while Glynda shrouded in purple aura prepared her stance. Before Tai could cut in and stop the impending war a calm voice broke through the violence.

"Alright that's enough. This isn't really the time for us to be arguing amongst ourselves. Obviously there any many important matters to be discussed however we won't be able to address any of it unless done so in a calm and peaceful manner." Both adults looked back at their colleague standing down at his command. Ozpin held his cane as he rose from his chair and walked around the round perimeter. Ozpin walked to the entrance where Tai was stationed since entering the building. Giving a ginger sweet smile Ozpin stuck his hand out for the general to shake. "Good of you to come General, I hope the trip here was peaceful, unlike here." Ozpin coolly directed that last remark at the still fuming councilmen.

Tai simply sighed and returned the older man's handshake. "Yeah it was good Oz, ahem so what exactly is going on here?" The two men made their way to the round table all four members resuming their seats. Tai looked amongst his friends and coworkers for an answer to get the meeting started. Qrow unsurprisingly had his flask out gulping down a harder swig of whiskey. Glynda was now adjusting her glasses and Ozpin poured himself a cup of straight black coffee. Qrow was the first to speak letting out an unflattering belch and resting his faded red eyes on the general. "Well you sure took your sweet time getting here. Had you been here sooner you'd have heard about some intel. I've gathered information about a spy hiding out in the upper class." Glynda let out a frustrated growl, 'For the last time Qrow you're instinct feeling is not enough evidence to go on. You need something more sufficient and tangible to prove your claim! Otherwise we're mindlessly pointing fingers at anyone in the upper class. We don't have the time or manpower to go investigating on empty threats that may not even be there." Oh Oum not this again, they just regained control Tai could not afford for their clashing to get this meeting off track.

"Alright, alright I get it! Look I'm sorry I'm late, but in case any of you've forgotten I'm the only one here who still has to parent a teenager." Tai scrubbed his face and let out a breath, he then turned to his oldest friend and biggest pain in the neck. "Now I think I see what's going on here. Qrow why don't you explain exactly what or who this spy is?" Tai gestured to the drunken soldier. "Finally someone with a brain listens." If looks could kill Glynda's glare would have sent Qrow straight to his coffin. "Now as for this threat, when I was out in No-Man's-Land you know the large expanse between Vale and Mistral. Well when I was out patrolling with my platoon we overheard what seemed like a meeting. My scouts didn't catch much but what they did gather was an outside group seeking to control the upper class. Riches, politics, power the whole shebang" Qrow finished his report with another swig from his flask. "Heh, now I know this wouldn't be the first time we heard this we get about a dozen of these 'plans' every year. But what made me take this seriously is that they mentioned Amber and described her death in tandem with the injuries she sustained."

Everyone at the table was silent for a moment staring forlornly at the fifth empty seat. They'd have to fill that chair and soon. Qrow shot Glynda a patronizing look. "And yes Glynda before you go at it again i am aware we can't expend too many resources scouring these spies out. Or need I remind you, I'm the one who regularly sees that our brave men and women devoured by the grimm every day. It's a lot different out in the wild then just taking trainees outside the border." Qrow certainly had seen things that having traveled outside the Kingdoms but that didn't mean he wasn't aware of the situation happening just outside the border.

Glynda rising to the challenge leaned across the table and whispered, "I have never forgotten for a moment what it's like on the battlefield Qrow. So don't treat me like one of your little rookies." Tai quickly clapped both adults into attention.

"Alright thank you Qrow. Everyone just chill out, we're all a little tense but we're the leaders here, the kingdom of Vale is depending on us to make sure everything runs smoothly. And keeping with that I have a little announcement, I found someone to temporarily take Amber's place until we can properly set up an election. Everyone I want you to welcome-"

Tai was cut off by a large bang. The twin brass doors crashed open and resonated with a large thud, walking through the entrance the click clack of stiletto heels could be heard. Emerging from the open doorway stood a tall woman, long sapphire hair spilled over her shoulder and back like a shining waterfall. She wore long white gloves, a long black dress with a long slit up the left side. She wore a large blue green and purple coat with a white fur trim resembling a peacock. She stood several feet in front of the table as if she wore showing off for a runway rather than an important political meeting.

"Hello Taiyang darling, so sorry I'm late traffic was atrocious." Aya Li walked further down planting a friendly kiss on the general's cheek before taking her seat to his left and Glynda's right. Tai nervously coughed into his fist attempting to break the building tension in the atmosphere.

"Ahem so as I was saying this here is Ms. Aya Li and she will be taking Amber's place as head of Border Control and Security. After the wedding is settled we'll hold a proper election." Tai's plan was met with unnerving silence. Chalk this up to being one of his worse meetings. The other three councilmen sat with stupefied expressions. The three Huntsmen all stared at each other with unblinking eyes before boring their gazes at Tai in the loudest expression of, "Are you freaking kidding Tai?"

Ozpin who'd been usually quiet until this moment was the first to speak. "Tai not that I've ever questioned your judgment but do you really believe hiring you soon-to-be son-in-law's mother is a wise choice?" Ozpin raised a brow posing his question. Qrow barked out his laughter, the contents of his flask sloshing from side to side as his hand shook from trying to suppress his outburst.

Aya's steel blue eyes locked in on Qrow in obvious agitation. Had it been anyone else they would've crumbled under her glare, but Qrow was hardly afraid of a pompous woman such as this one. "Oh man Tai you got suckered into this one. What she threaten to call off the wedding? You better be careful Tai, this is starting to look like a dynasty to me." Qrow sneered at Aya taking an obnoxiously loud gulp of whiskey.

"As much as I hate agreeing with Qrow I have to say in this case I do. Tai what makes Ms. Li qualified to handle the rigorous strong front of our border? She hardly looks the part of a commanding officer. Amber was young but she at least had several years of being a huntress under her belt." Glynda adjusted as her glasses as she put her hands back on the table. It certainly pained her to agree with Qrow but underneath the drunken exterior was a man with many ideas that most people wouldn't expect.

"Well not that it's likely going to make any difference in your eyes." Aya suddenly interrupted. "You see I may not be an active Huntress but I have several political science degrees, I served as mayor in Patch and under my administration the town flourished. However if it's protection you're worried about I have a business associate that would be more than happy to help." Pulling out her fan black fan with decorative white and blue flowers Aya's bangs moved from the gentle wind she created. Aya turned her head and called out into the open corridor, "Isn't that right Cinder?"

For the third time during this bizarre meeting the doors clacked open again, a series of footsteps could be heard and a small group of three new individuals entered the room. At the head was a beautiful young woman with ash black hair, burning gold eyes and smile that could cut glass. Her heels, black as her hair, clinked against the marble floor her short red dress swaying in the air, her two subordinates flanked behind her, two kids holding two large cases. The woman Aya called Cinder bowed gracefully before the council her gaze focused and steady. "Dear council it is such an honor to be in your presence today. My name is Cinder Fall, my partner Ms. Li has kindly introduced me now allow me to explain how I can be of help." With a snap her two helpers placed the cases on the table and slowly opened them revealing advanced sleek weapons.

Pulling out a pair of black elegant dual cross blades Cinder performed various masterful techniques then places them on the table to be passed around and examined. "As you can see I run a successful business supplying only the best weaponry to our brave and dutiful huntsmen who protect our borders. Many of our weapons can be fashioned into more than one, for example the swords you currently hold they can also be joined together and be used as a bow." Ozpin who currently held the swords hooked the two spiked ends and with a crinkle and a snap the swords were now a battle ready bow. "I must say these weapons don't feel like any other our warriors have used before." Ozpin said running a finger down the spine. "It feels light but weighted at the ends. And the grip, good firm but strange. What materials do you use to make your weapons exactly?" Ozpin questioned.

Cinder and Aya shared a smile as if they were in on a secret they knew. Turning to face the older man Cinder began to explain, "Well you see councilmen the bow you're currently holding is made from specially mined steel coated over with reinforced bullet proof glass."

Qrow who was mindlessly flipping a shorthand knife suddenly stopped sat up straight in his chair and glowered at Cinder under his bangs. "Why would you make weapons with glass in them? Wouldn't they be subject to breaking more making Huntsmen more vulnerable to an attack" He questioned pointing the offending weapon at her. Qrow wasn't fully understanding the logic behind it as most custom made their weapons by themselves. Each one was uniquely designed to fit their style even to aide their semblance in compact.

Aya having sat in silence long enough stood up and joined Cinder at the front of the table, "We're glad you asked that questioned, Qrow. You see when we were discussing making these weapons together we found glass to be a common material that's light in weight. Our factories carefully reinforce the glass so it's bulletproof and durable during battle and mixed with the metal the glass is maintained. The weapons and sleek and designed to be transparent so a soldier can see an incoming sneak attack and prepare a counter strike. The weapons also mix well with dust for more versatile purposes." The two women standing there felt more like saleswomen on a business venture than allies.

Tai held the glass brass knuckles in his hand pounding it into his fist and the table. He was surprised by the durability and feel it was leaving a dent in the wood and a sting in his palm. Effective. "All right we have these weapons, now why exactly are you showing them to us?" He asked.

Cinder spoke up her tone sweeter than sugar, "Well great general, aside from generously supplying your forces with the latest in grimm killing weaponry allying yourself with my company will strengthen your economy. A stronger economy means more money to distribute, that means money to spend on Huntsmen academies, and construction on the border wall, and high salaries for the huntsmen who will use these weapons and patrol the wall thus you will get more soldiers in your army. I see no fault in this arrangement and it shall only last as long as Ms. Li is in charge of the border. Times are tough these days. Grimm attacks grow stronger and people are looking for protection a beacon of hope so to speak. Why not supply the masses with it then?" Cinder then opened up another smaller briefcase with various documents. "As a show of goodwill I'm prepared to deploy hundreds of my strongest soldiers for your army to train and teach your future Huntsmen as well as teach them how to use the weapons. These documents here are to show step by step instructions how to build and use these weapons so your men know what they are doing."

The papers were distributed around the table, Glynda and Qrow showing looks of disdain and mistrust. Ozpin and Tai looked up at each other than at Cinder and Aya. Coming to a silent conclusion Tai replied, "Well start off on a test run; I want to make sure this is legit before I commit to something like this. Heh this maybe something Ruby likes on her middle of the night adventures." Tai murmured that last part to himself.

Middle of the night you say?" Aya repeated, almost as if she's trying to sink in the information in. She didn't let Tai know she did manage to catch on to what he said about his younger daughter.

"To go off training like she always does." Tai explains offhandedly. "She's been doing this since she was young though . . . anyway Qrow we got sidetracked from your theory of there being a spy…" Tai started off again as he tried to put together what he was trying to say.

"Yes . . . perhaps a more critical matter should be discussed. Like your trained huntsman and huntress that you're overseeing General Taiyang." Aya lays down her fan as fixes her hair, not even bothering to look at everyone else in the room. "Well the incompetence of the soldiers can clearly be seen there. But with Cinder's generous help perhaps we can whip up the next generation of heroes into shape and catch this fiend that threatens our peace." Aya said with the friendliness of a shark.

Qrow gripped his flask tightly and would have bit out a retort had Tai not shot him a look with clear instruction. Stand down. This meeting was chaotic enough as is and Tai was not prepared to deal with Qrow fighting amongst a new member.

"If the grimm are getting stronger and increasing in population . . . shouldn't they have the capability to fight them. That would mean the important people like my family; your family . . . would all be in grave danger. That includes our children." Aya finished almost tearfully, cleverly stealing the conversation away in her favor.

"I assure you . . . our huntsmen and huntresses are receiving the finest training under our watch." Ozpin adds picking up his cane. "Then I presume Aya you think that my decades of teaching is an entire waste."

"All I'm saying is I believe we should expand our resources should we continue to live as we do. I would like to see the wedding of my beloved son go off without a hitch. Well then I guess we have no more to discuss. What do you think General Taiyang?" Aya address, "After all I assume you rather attend to your daughter than be here."

"I suppose we can talk more on this at the next meeting." Taiyang thinks about it for a moment as he rubs his chin. "All right meeting adjured." With relieved sighs heard about Tai quietly grabs Qrow by the shoulder and whispers in his ear. "We'll talk more on this matter in private later." With that Tai pats his friend on the shoulder and makes his way out of the building.

Cinder gathers her belongings being the last to leave with Emerald and Mercury following behind her. As they walked slowly into the hallways of the government building it was easier to access than she thought it would be. Being on the Council of Vale was very important to success of their plans.

"So is the plan set into motion?" Emerald quietly asked Cinder giving her a rather shy smile, something Cinder certainly failed to notice. Not that she was paying much attention to her anyway.

"Everything will happen in due time, Emerald." Cinder assures her as she looks back at both of them. Her scroll began to ring, Cinder checks for new messages. She receives a message that read 'Spy on the General's daughter, we need to know where she sneaks out to a night.' Cinder wasn't going to complain of course, if this is what her associate wanted, that's what she was going to do. As long as she got what she was promised, it didn't matter to her.

"First off we have to pay a visit to the General's daughter." Cinder says off a sly smirk, walking further into the shadows the smell of smoke and ash could be detected faintly in the air as the three silhouettes disappeared.


Ren and Nora were out of breath racing back into their home before Jaune. They both knew if Jaune caught them spying on him and Ruby they'd die tonight. However the prospect of an untimely death did nothing to quell Nora's her joy. Jaune had finally found another girl to care for! Even if he won't admit it Nora knows it will only be a matter of time before their love ignites. Jaune sneaks out in the middle of the night to meet a pretty mysterious girl when just last week the thought of Jaune doing that would've been a miracle. No this was a miracle, Jaune was happier he was finally returning to his old self. He wouldn't just do this with anyone this Ruby girl had to be special to him. Nora started thinking up plans to bring the two together. She had to be discreet though. Ren made her promise she wouldn't meddle, but a little nudge here and there wasn't meddling.

Pulling out of reverie Nora looked out the window when she heard labored breathing and pounding footsteps. It was Jaune! Turning on her heel Nora all but shouted at her partner in crime. "Quickly Ren, we need to act like we haven't seen anything." Nora gleefully bounced onto the couch turning on the old television nothing but static came onto the screen. Being from the lower class, they had to use old stuff the upper class threw away. They also didn't get the best service because they didn't have much money. It was something they all had adjusted too.

"No problem. That's what I've been doing this whole time." Ren sighs aloud walking to the kitchen, pulling out an apple from the fruit basket and a bottle of water from the fridge he gingerly made his way back to the couch.

It was around twenty minutes later that Jaune came back, quietly he opened the door and tried to sneak back in he wasn't sure if Nora and Ren had turned in for the night he didn't want to be rude and wake them up. He took off his jacket and hung it on the coat rack, removed his boots and made his way to the living room. Turning his head left he looked inside the room to see his two friends still up. Huh they must have decided to wait up for him, how sweet. Still catching his breath from the run back here Jaune placed his armor and sword against the wall and flopped uncharacteristically.

To his right Nora was all but vibrating making him bounce slightly in place on the cushion."Soooooooo Jaune, how was your walk?" Nora asked eagerly with the same enthusiasm as sneaking into the upper class, hmm strange. However as much as Jaune loved his friends this was private and he didn't want to indulge them in his little secret...friendship. Despite not getting an immediate reaction Nora couldn't help but notice the smile that was on forming on Jaune's face so she knew it had to have gone well between them.

"Huh oh well it was, uh it was fine. You know just a boring old walk through the woods. Deep dark woods, alone at night. Heh heh." Jaune nervously babbled. He cleared his throat with a cough and crossed his left ankle on his right knee. Thoughts of Ruby flooded his mind and Jaune just felt, better. He hasn't met anyone quite like her. Charming and sweet but just as awkward as him he couldn't wait to see her again. Jaune was suddenly jarred out of his musings by Nora's continued chatter.

"Oh are you sure? Nothing exciting happened at alllll? On such a beautiful night?" Nora prodded again. Ren had half a mind to call Nora off her interrogation but she wasn't likely to listen to him.

Jaune sitting up cast his sister figure a questioning look. Why was Nora so interested in his little late night walk? As far as she knows he was alone. "Yeah pretty uneventful, just need to clear my head in the air is all." He replied raising a brow. "It's a nice night no clouds, a light breeze, just being out in nature under the light of the full moon." Jaune mused to himself.

"I know, so bright and lovely. Just like her silver eyes." Nora blurted out without thinking, before she realized what she just said and covered her mouth.

Jaune's eyes widened and he vaulted off the couch facing a guilty looking Nora and surprised Ren. "WHAT?!" Jaune screamed. He clutched his fists in anger but had enough sense to control his emotions. Barely.

"Nice job, Nora. Couldn't even last a minute." Ren scolds Nora using his spare hand to face palm.

"Both of you were spying on us? What did you guys hear?" Jaune angrily asks his invasive friends not sure what to make of the whole thing. He was angry and embarrassed that they spied on them. That was a personal moment where he all but acted like a fool in front of his new friend and they violated it.

"Well Nora wanted to spy on you . . . she dragged me along. I really didn't want to come." Ren defended himself shooting Nora a 'fix this' look. Nora looked desperately back at Ren who merely sighed at the mess she caused and tried calming Jaune down with the truth. "And to answer your other question we know her name is Ruby and she's obviously from the upper class. Anything else, I can't vouch for both of us but I know nothing more than that." Ren finished taking another bite from his apple. Jaune still looked steamed.

"She's really pretty Jaune, are you going to see her again?" Nora was on her knees on the couch looking at him with big puppy dog eyes.

"That's none of your business. And besides we're friends, NOTHING more. Understand." Jaune firmly told Nora, who was never going to give up on what she presumed to be a relationship. It didn't seem to matter how many times he told her that they were just friends? Nothing really seemed to get the message across to her.

"Surrrrrrrrrrrre she is Jaune. You love her and you know it." Nora giggles hugging the couch pillow in delight. "You can bring her over to meet us. That is if you plan on seeing her again. I can even whip us up some lunch. OOOOh maybe we can even make cake, even rich girls have to like sweets." Nora started making plans as she became lost in her own thoughts, remaining oblivious to Jaune's anger. He opened his mouth to say something but was cut off by Ren.

"Just be careful." Ren gently said showing his concern for Jaune. He was like a brother to him. It was hard for Jaune when Pyrrha died and he didn't want his friend to go through that same pain a second time. Even worse is the fact Jaune could be killed this time due to the laws. That's why he kept warning him because just saying it made the whole thing a bit better emotionally. If it meant nagging him and getting Jaune angry.

Jaune huffed and crossed his arms defensively turning his head away. "You don't need to keep warning me, Ren. Look I know the risks and maybe to you it doesn't seem worth it but, but this is something I want to do. Let me worry about the consequences alright? I don't want to argue about this right now." Jaune just sighs, he couldn't change the past. There was nothing more he could do and he wanted to end the day already. "It's late. I'm just going to go to bed. Good night." With that he went upstairs to his room in the attic of the house. Grabbing the first clean shirt and sweatpants he shrugged off his day clothes, throwing them into his hamper then put his armor and sword at the bottom of his closet. Flopping into bed, Jaune pulled over the sheets staring up at the ceiling for a long time. Inspiration suddenly struck Jaune like lightning. Reaching into his bedside drawer he pulled out a pad and paper and started composing a very important letter. He'll have to get it out early tomorrow morning though. Finishing his task he lay down again and closed his eyes. He dreamed of silver eyes under a wolf mask, music played as he spun around a forest with her in his arms and smiles exchanged. A contented smile drifted onto his face as he slept.


Ruby was in the garden sitting on a bench, watching the gardener water the flowers and other plant life. Blake was doing a perimeter check and would be back in a minute, she hardly left Ruby alone ever since she snuck out. It will be harder to do it again when it's time for her to see Jaune again. Ruby looked up when she felt a presence nearby. Three individuals stood in front of her, Aya's business partner Cinder Fall followed by her two bodyguards.

"Hello Cinder . . ." Ruby greeted uneasily. She wasn't particularly fond of the councilwoman; something about the older woman just rubbed her the wrong way. Besides her reputation made Ruby want to have no association with her. Her company has garnered even more controversy than the Schnee Dust Company if that's even possible. Several of her factories have suffered from labor strikes against both Humans and Faunus, officers that opposed her business practices ended up getting killed in "accidents" and the weapons they've made have been known to malfunction. "What brings you out here? Surely you have more important things to do than talk with little old me." Ruby mocked with an angry glare.

"On the contrary Miss Rose, I wanted to see how the new bride of my esteemed sponsor was doing on this fine day." Cinder said her tone sweeter than the flowers in the garden. Emerald and Mercury backed up several paces surveying the area and giving off the air of privacy for the two dark haired women to talk. Cinder smoother her black pants as she sat down on the stone cold bench next to the young girl. Ruby scooted a little to the side to put some distance between them. If Cinder noticed she didn't comment instead she placed her perfectly manicured hand on the aging stone and looked out at the garden. "You know I'm almost jealous of you. You have the world at your fingertips people who adore you, the best huntress training anywhere and a soon-to-loving husband. Yet it doesn't seem to be enough. What could possibly make a girl who has virtually everything want to run away?" Cinder inquired stabbing more guilt into Ruby, she still felt awful from Blake's rant earlier.

Ruby shifted in place trying to relieve her growing tension. She wasn't about to spill her feelings and reasons to this woman, she didn't know her and she was aligned with Aya. No doubt the crabby stuffed feather case was having Cinder see what Ruby was up to. Paranoid much. Probably thinks I'm trying to back out of this marriage, Ruby thought e wishes she could but so she could be her own person not to be with someone else.

Ruby sat in prolonged silence ignoring Cinder's questions. She didn't see the slip of agitation in Cinder's mask but it was gone as quick as it came. In the distance Cinder could see a young girl coming their way, no doubt the Faunus guardian that trailed Ruby more like a pet than a friend. Smoothing down her blood red coat Cinder stood up her shiny black boots making indents in the old stone path. "Well I suppose it's time for me to get going. It was a pleasure to make your acquaintance I look forward with meeting you in the future." Bowing politely Cinder didn't wait for Ruby to return the gesture and walked away with her subordinates in tow.

Ruby watched them walk away. Quickly looking around to make sure she was alone for the moment Ruby out the letter she got from Jaune. Rohan slipped it into her room earlier that morning. She recounted how their meeting was in the forest last night. Ruby was so nervous but excited, Jaune had treated her like a normal person, not a glamorized celebrity or a delicate princess. It was usually only on the battlefield Ruby could be spoken to like anyone else. A battle-hardened soldier doing their job like everyone else. But soon even that luxury will be taken away if Aya has her way. The more Ruby thought about the impending wedding and the changes happening around her the more upset she got. Yet this little secret she had with Jaune, their secret friendship where class didn't matter, where the lines get blurred they can relax and talk was a precious light that carried her through her uncertainty. What Cinder said started to affect her though? She was a girl with virtually everything, what problems could she possibly have? Stuck in a loveless marriage where every decision will be made by everyone instead of herself. Her freedom, her happiness gone with a simple "I do." Ruby suddenly stood up and met up with Blake who was returning from her rounds.

"Miss Rose is everything alright?" Blake asked her charge. Ruby had that look in her eye, that look that meant she was about to do something crazy. Ruby merely waved off her friend's concern.

"I am fine. Hey uh Blake I'm kind of tired now. I think I'm going to go rest up in my room. You're free for the rest of the day." "Miss Ruby." Blake called making Ruby stop in her tracks. She turned around facing her protector giving Blake her full attention. Blake's cat ears drooped down and defeated sigh escaping her lips. "If you're going to sneak out again later. Just let me know okay? I can cover for you; it's my job to make sure you're safe so if you need to leave for a little while then let me help you." Blake pleaded, every word she spoke she took a step closer until she was inches from Ruby and lightly took her hands in her own. Ruby looked down her their joined hands and gave a comforting squeeze.

"Okay, I promise." Ruby smiled and gave Blake a quick hug. Leaving the garden and being deposited back to her room Ruby started to get ready.

She went into her closet as quickly changing out of the poofy suffocating dress Ruby was required to wear. "Stupid fluff and satin makes no gosh dang sense why I have to wear these all the time." Ruby muttered in slight agitation. Ruby pulled out and changed into her favorite huntress outfit. Being from a wealthy family she had hundreds of different options to wear to fight the grimm. Not that she cared at all about the fashion but she had to look her best while in the public eye. Suiting up in a black battle skirt, long sleeved black shirt and armor and her favorite boots. Lastly Ruby put on beloved red cloak pulling the hood overhead she prepared to jump out the window but stopped. She made a promise and intended on keeping it. Sending a quick scroll message.

"Going out to the forest won't be out too late, maybe hopefully. Promise to be safe –Ruby Rose."

Grabbing her weapon she went outside to her balcony then using her semblance flew into the nearest tree Ruby was nothing but a red blur in the fading sunlight. Rose petals fell from the sky in her wake. Little did she know Mercury was on the roof of the mansion watching her escape? He hastily followed the rose petals that were left behind as she speeded away hopping from tree trunk to branch. He couldn't lose sight of her, jumping down from the roof he went through a secret passage through the stone wall. Trailing behind on the ground Mercury hid behind a tree's following the girl to, wherever she was going. Finally she reached a clearing in the middle of the woods and stopped sitting on a fallen log. A moment later a young man came out from the thicket sporting well-made armor and a sword. "Huh looks like the girl's story was true that' she's just out training. Must be a local huntsman. Getting closer using the shadows he hid behind some bushes to listen in on their conversation.

"Hey Jaune, are you ready?" Ruby smiled as he nodded his head in agreement. Jaune pulled out his sword and sunk into a battle stance.

Mercury takes out his scroll to sending Cinder his message, 'The General's daughter is training at night like we were told at the meeting with what appears to be a fully trained huntsman. Should I stay and keep observing' Mercury presses the send button and waits for his bosses e two huntsmen start circling each other weapons out faces set in determination. Suddenly Mercury's scroll pinged in his hand.

Looking down he sees Cinder's orders. 'Leave them be for now. We will have to watch them longer until we get the information we need. Nodding his head Mercury sneakily slinks away and heads back to await further orders leaving the two huntsmen alone in the dark.


Author's Note: Okay, I reread the edited version almost twenty times to make sure nothing is repeated and they're no mistakes before I put this put this time. Even taking breathers before rereading it again to make sure there was no errors neither me nor my beta reader/editor missed. We're trying not to make these mistakes again.

I found it so cute that Jaune and Ruby dreamed about each other while they were sleeping. It shows subconsciously an attraction is there they just realize it yet.

I really hope you like this chapter...PLEASE READ/REVIEW! REALLY would love to know what you think!