This story may be my own original story, but RWBY, the characters and everything else is owned by Rooster Teeth and created by late Monty Oum(1981-2015). And even though it's 2 years, since your passing. We all still miss you Monty.
RWBY Volume 6, Chapter 10
Truth
SOLIS - CONFERENCE ROOM
Ruby has her hand on her face, as she sighs. Ren, Nora and everyone else are sitting in a round table, while Shay and Octavius stand nearby. Ruby turns and look at the 3 empty seats. The seats meant for Juane, Pyrrha and Blake. She then turns to look at Yang, who is staring at the table, shaking.
"This is fucked up!" Ruby exclaims, before slamming her hands on the desk. "FUCKED UP!"
Everyone is surprised at what Ruby did, with Yang looking scared.
"They poisoned Blake." Ruby said. "Then they tortured Jaune. And whatever they did to him, made him attack Pyrrha. I don't know, what else to say. They're trying to tear us apart...again."
"We weren't prepared." Wesley said. "None of us were."
"He's right." Ren said. "None of us could've anticipated Torchwick or Cinder to be present, in the attack, 2 days ago. None of us would know what was going to happen."
"And because we didn't, 3 of our own have been put out of commission." Ruby said.
"...Make it 4." Yang said, before standing up.
As Yang stands up and walk around the table, Velvet stands and walks to her. She then whispers in Yang's ear, before sitting back down and the latter leaves the room.
"What are we going to do?" Sun asked.
"...I don't know, Sun." Ruby said. "With Yang being held hostage, by Cinder. With that damn collar of hers...we can't do anything without risking Cinder finding out."
"We still have a stronghold left to destroy." Emerald said. "That's what we came to do, right?"
"That was the original plan, Em." Neon said. "But after the attack, everything's changed."
"And because of our presence here, Solis is now in danger of falling." Ruby said.
"We would protect this place." Ren said.
"For how long?" Neptune exclaims. "How long can we hold up, before this place finally falls?"
"As long as we can!" Nora exclaims.
"That could take days." Emerald said. "But it's possible, we can hold them back. Just until they either back off or leave this place alone."
"I still say, we go back to Atlas." Neptune said.
"You want to abandon our home?" Shay said, anger in his voice. "After you've dedicated yourselves to this place?"
"Things changed." Neptune said, before turning to Ruby. "We should go back, Ruby."
"I hate to say this." Aiden said. "But I have to agree with Neptune."
Velvet looks surprised at what Aiden said.
"The longer we stay here, the more chances of Torchwick attacking Solis increases."
"Who's to say, that he won't attack this place, anyways?" Velvet exclaims. "Torchwick is ruthless and brutal. Most of us have experience this, firsthand."
"Well I-"
"Enough, Aiden!" Ruby exclaims. "It's clear that a part of us wants to go back to Atlas, while the other wants to stay. So, then...why don't we vote, on whether or not we stay. Shay and the mayor are excluded. So is Blake, Ilia and Jaune. Ren and Nora will go speak to Pyrrha, and get her vote. We meet back here, in 1 hour. That is all."
ATLAS AIRSHIP - PRISON CELL
Jaune lies down on a bed, his arms, legs and body restrained. He groans as he wakes up and opens his eyes. When he tries to raise his arm, he realizes what's happening. He struggles to free himself, but to no avail. A door then suddenly opens and he turns his head. He sees Yang entering the room. When she sees that he's awake, she lowers her head and walks to him. She stops about a couple feet away from him.
"Hi, Jaune." She nervously said. "How are you feeling?"
"...A bit restrained, right now." Jaune said. "Care to tell me why, I'm in this position?"
Yang raises her head to look at Jaune. "You know why. But...can we not talk about that?"
Jaune sighs, before staring at the ceiling. "How did this happen, Yang? Ever since we came here, things have been fucked up. I had to go with them, because they would've killed you. Why didn't you fight back, Yang? You could've beaten them all. But you did nothing."
Yang then removes the collar, and reveals the metal one under.
"I could've easily beat Tyrian, that night. But, I couldn't." She points at the collar. "As long as this is on, I'm useless. But I already suspect, that she told you, about this."
"...Yeah." Jaune answered. "She did."
"Did she tell you, that Tyrian poisoned Blake?" Yang said.
Jaune looks surprised. "What?"
Yang nods. "Yeah. That night, when they took you away." Her voice begins to break. "It's not looking good. She only has another day. If we don't cure her..." Tears fall from Yang's face, as she tries to calm herself down. "She doesn't deserve to die, because of me."
"Well, what do you want me to do? I can't simply do anything, in my position."
"...Cure Blake." Yang answered.
"...What?" Jaune said, confused.
"Your Semblance. You can heal yourself, to the point, where broken limbs can instantly fix themselves. But I know, that you can extend it, to the point where you can heal others, as well."
"I...I don't think...I don't think I could, Yang." Jaune said.
Yang then grabs Jaune by his shirt. "YOU HAVE TO! Only you can save her! ...Please. I'm begging you."
The door to the room opens. Yang and Jaune turn to see Ruby entering. Yang releases Jaune and lowers her head.
"What are you doing here, Yang?" Ruby said. "Only I or Qrow can be in here."
Yang does not answer and proceeds to walk. She is then stopped by Ruby's arm. Ruby crouches down and grab's Yang's collar and wrap it around the metal one.
"Head back to the conference room, in an hour. We're going to need a vote from you."
Yang slowly nods and leaves the room. Ruby slowly turns to Jaune, who stares at the ceiling. She sighs and walks to him. When she stops, she sees that Jaune is looking at her.
"I know, what you're going to say, Ruby." He said, anger in his voice. "So don't even bother, asking."
"I will ask, if I want to!" Ruby angrily exclaims. "What you did yesterday...attacking Pyrrha like that...that can't be ignored. Now tell me...why? Why did you try to kill her?"
"I only want to tell Pyrrha, herself." Jaune said.
"That's not going to happen." Ruby said. "She doesn't want to go near you. At all."
"...Then I'm not saying anything." Jaune said.
"...What did they do to you, man?" Ruby asked. "What did they do, to turn you into what you are, now?"
Jaune, after a few seconds, tries to answer her question. But every time he does, his voice breaks. He then turns his head away, and Ruby starts to hear soft sobbing. Ruby then turns around and leaves the room.
ATLAS - ALPHA BASE
Weiss is standing outside, while Ironwood, Crystal and several soldiers walk inside an airship. Weiss turns and looks at Penny, who is carrying a duffel bag.
"Sorry, Weiss." Penny said, dropping her bag. "I know, I wanted our first session to start immediately. But given the events in Vacuo, we'll need to put it on hold."
"Still don't understand, why I can't come." Weiss said, crossing her arms. "Ruby and the others are in trouble, and I'm stuck here."
"That's not up to me." Penny said. "This was Ironwood's decision. Besides. This is better, that you stay. Given your current condition."
Weiss sighs. "Fine. But as soon as you get back, I'll have a lot to talk about."
"Doubt it." Penny said. "I'm pretty sure Dr. Solaris, will want to have some sessions, of his own. It's been a while, since you've last seen him."
"Miss Polendina!"
Weiss and Penny turn to see Ironwood near the ship. Behind him, Cardin and Cyan enter the airship.
"I guess, we're leaving sooner than I thought." Penny said, before turning to Weiss. "Well. I should be going. I give it a few minutes, before we are ready to lift off. I will see you soon, Weiss."
Penny picks up her bag and walks sway, Weiss watching her walk.
"Don't worry, Miss Schnee."
Weiss turns and sees Klein, who approaches her.
"I'm sure Miss Rose and the others will be alright, after they arrive."
"I believe that, Klein." Weiss said. "But I'm worried about those, who are currently hurting. I gotta do something."
Weiss turns and notices something behind Klein. Something white and metal. When she moves closer, she sees her metal case, which contains her weapon.
"I find it hard to believe, that you'd just stay here and anxiously await for your friends." Klein said. "So I brought this, just in case."
Weiss smiles and chuckles. "You know me, too well."
"I do, indeed." Klein said. "Come on. I believe the cargo hold, is an excellent place to hide. I've even managed to get a few items of yours, as well."
SOLIS - REST AREA
Pyrrha sits on the edge of her bed, sadly staring at the ground. She is rubbing her neck, which had marks all over, from Jaune trying to strangle her. Wincing at the bruised area, she lowers her arm down. The door to the rest area opens. Pyrrha turns to see Ren and Nora entering. She then resumes staring at the ground.
"How are you feeling, right now?" Ren asked.
Pyrrhs turns and looks back at Ren and opens her mouth. But when she tries to speak, her voice is a gravelly rasp. She then stops.
"It's okay." Ren said. "You don't need to speak. We're only here for a minute."
Ren walks to a drawer and picks up a red and blue cup, before walking back and sitting down on a bed across from Pyrrha.
"We're expecting to have a vote, in less than an hour. And Ruby wanted your vote. But given your current state, your vote will be told by me. Give me your medicine."
Pyrrha reaches for a bottle of purple liquid, from a drawer and gives it to Ren, who takes off the top and pours the medicine in both cups.
"Both these cups represent a vote." Ren lifts the red cup. "This one votes that we take out the remaining stronghold. And when we are finished, we head straight back to Atlas."
"But that leaves Solis vulnerable to an attack." Nora said.
"Correct." Ren said, lowering the red cup. He then lifts up the blue cup. "This cup is the vote to still take out the stronghold. But...we stay and fight, for as long as possible."
"We swore to protect the innocent." Nora said. "And I'm not ready to break that oath."
"Neither am I." Ren said. "So, then. Whichever cup you pick up and drink from, will be your vote. Choose wisely. For your vote could decide on our next move."
Ren then offers both cups. Pyrrha stares at both cups, looking at each one every few seconds. After a few seconds, she lifts up her hand and slowly reaches for the blue cup. But as her fingertips hit the cup, she suddenly stops. Ren and Nora look confused. And their expression changes, when Pyrrha takes the red cup and drinks the medicine from it, wincing from the taste.
"Wasn't expecting her to pick up the red cup." Ren said. "Pyrrha. Are you sure?"
Pyrrha slowly nods and lies down on her bed. Ren sighs and stands up. He and Nora then proceed to leave the rest area. Pyrhha is silent, as she lies on the bed, staring at the bed, where Crocea Mors lies on. Shaking, Pyrrha begins to softly sob, covering her face with her hands.
ROOM
Velvet pours water into a cup and proceeds to carry it to a chair, sitting on it. She then looks at Blake, who is barely opening her eyes and her breathing labored. Velvet then proceeds to help Blake sit up, and offers the water. Blake slowly drinks from the cup, but begins to cough it up. Velvet places the cup down and immediately positions Blake to where she is staring down, patting her back as well. Blake has a rag covering her mouth, as she continues coughing. After a few seconds, the coughing stops and she lowers the rag, showing the same purple liquid that is in her veins. Velvet's ears twitch, and she suddenly takes the rag and puts it under the bed. The door to the room opens and the two see Yang entering. Yang's eyes go wide, upon seeing Blake awake. But she also sees the purple liquid rolling down her mouth. Blake realizes this and slowly wipes the stuff off her mouth.
"When did you wake up?" Yang asked.
"...Just...just a few minutes ago." Blake slowly answered.
Yang then proceeds to sit down and holds her wife's hand. She feels Blake's grip getting tighter and she's shaking.
"It's getting worse!" Blake exclaims. "Every few minutes, I start coughing violently. My breathing is getting harder to do. And I'm shaking everywhere."
"Stop!" Yang exclaims. "Don't think about it, Blake."
"...Am I going to die?" Blake said, her voice shaking. Tears fall down her eyes. "Don't lie to me! Just tell me the truth."
Yang releases her grip and stares at the ground, in silence. Clenching her fists tight, she then responds with "No."
Yang lifts her head and looks at Blake, her face not sad, but serious.
"I know how we can cure you. And I'll do everything in my power, to ensure that happens. I promise you, Blake. You're not going to die. Not on my watch."
Yang then presses her head on Blake's.
"I will not lose you. I will ensure that you live to see another day."
Blake weakly wraps her arm around Yang's head and slowly nods.
Velvet stands up and opens a window. As she watches the outside, she notices something. Someone is striking a target dummy with a sword, giving it multiple cuts. Exhausted, the person turns around. Velvet is surprised to see that it's Valerie. She stands up and looks at Yang.
"You okay with staying here, for a while?"
Yang nods. Velvet then walks to the door and exits.
TRAINING GROUNDS
Valerie is resting her head on the handle of the sword, breathing heavily. She then hears the sounds of approaching footsteps and quickly stands up.
"How many times do I have to tell you, Val?"
Standing across from her, Shay has his arms crossed.
"You were specifically told, not to train without supervision. And what are you doing? Training. Alone. As in "by yourself!"
Valerie tries to say something back. But after a few seconds, she just lowers her head and drops her sword. Shay sighs and proceeds to go pick up the sword. Examining it, he turns back to Valerie.
"Why do you insist on defying the rules, Val?"
Valerie lifts her head and looks at Shay.
"I don't want to be weak." She said.
Shay walks to Valerie and stops near her. After a few seconds of staring, he proceeds to place his hand on her shoulder.
"Just because training started out slow...doesn't mean you get stronger within days." Shay said, with a calm voice. "You must have determination and patience, in order to accomplish your goals. So I am asking you. Please be patient. And in over time...you will get stronger. Alright?"
Valerie nods and speaks. "Yes...brother."
Shay nods. "I have to go. I need to speak with Father. Just be sure to be home, by tonight."
Shay, while still holding Valerie's sword, begins to walk away. Valerie sighs and sits back down, staring at the ground. She then turns her head and sees Velvet approaching her. She doesn't move, only staring back at the ground. "Sorry if you saw that. Didn't want anyone to know."
"It's okay." Velvet said. "I get it. Used to do the same thing, back when I was a student in Beacon." She chuckles. "I was exactly the same as you."
Velvet then proceeds to sit next to Valerie, who looked surprised.
"I was considered the shyest during my first year at Beacon. Didn't have any friends, outside of my old team. But I was able to move past my comfort zone, and I made new friends. And all that took was courage and patience. And it was thanks to my team."
"...I heard about them. Coco was your girlfriend, right?" Valerie asked.
Velvet sadly nods. "She was. And we were going to be more than that, after the war was done. To finally start a family and somehow have children. But that all changed, on that very night." She then wipes the single tear that was flowing down her face. "Sorry for hearing all that."
"It's fine." Valerie said. "I know exactly how you're feeling. I know what it's like to lose a loved one up close."
"Who?"
"...My mom." Valerie answered. "Never left her side, wherever we went. I loved her more than anything in the world. Then she got sick and went away forever. That was about 2 years ago.. I cried a lot for weeks. But I knew I had to move on. Otherwise the sadness will consume you completely. I had to find a purpose to help distract me. And that purpose is to get stronger than ever. And that's what I've been doing, since."
"You're dedicated." Velvet said. "I like that."
Valerie just smiles and keeps her blush away from Velvet, who stands up.
"Hey, Valerie."
Valerie turns to look at Velvet.
"I was thinking about walking around the market. And...I was wondering if you'd like to walk with me."
Valerie looks surprised and quickly stands up. "Uh...um..." She can't answer in her nervousness.
Velvet just smiles. "Just follow me, please."
"Uh...yes ma'am." Valerie said.
The two the proceeds to walk next to each other, down the street. Unbeknownst to them, Aiden is watching them walk, smiling. But the smile would soon fade to sadness.
CONFERENCE ROOM
Everyone, except for Yang and Velvet, sit down in their seats. Ruby notices the empty seats and looks confused.
"Where's Yang and Velvet?"
"Velvet said that something came up." Sun said. "So she couldn't make it. And Yang is taking care of Blake."
"We already got their proxy votes." Neon said. "So we don't have to worry about that."
"We got Pyrrha's as well." Nora said.
"Okay, then." Ruby said. "It's time to proceed with the official vote. Remember: Must be a majority vote. Once we decide what path to choose, it's final. Understand?"
Everyone nods.
"Good. Now...all in favor of staying and defending Solis, for the time being. Yes."
Ruby turns to Sun, who says "Yes."
Neon. "Yes. And Velvet's vote was yes as well."
Neptune. "No."
Aiden. "No."
Ren. "Yes."
Nora. "Yes. And Pyrrha's vote is no."
Ruby is surprised by this, but remains silent.
Emerald. "No."
Wesley, though after some hesitation, says "No".
Ruby then turns to Qrow, who was resting his back on the wall. Qrow looks a little surprised.
"I have a vote?" He asked.
"You're technically part of the squad, even when you're not with us on missions." Wesley said. "And that means you get a vote, as well."
Qrow remains silent for a few seconds, before turning to Terra, who nods. He then sighs. "I'm going to have to say no."
Ruby sighs. "Then it appears, we have a tie. Oh, boy. We need a tie breaker. I'm surprised to hear some of the 'nos'. But we to have a decision, today."
Ruby stands from her chair.
"And I know who can break the tie."
AIRSHIP
Weiss is sitting on top of a crate in the cargo hold, staring outside. She sees the mountains that are seen in the horizon. She smiles by the magnificent sight. But that changes when the sound of a door opening. Weiss quickly crouches on the floor and hide behind the crate. She then slowly peeks around and is surprised to see Ironwood in the room. Ironwood looks around to see if anyone is around, before taking out his Scroll.
"Sparrow. I need an update on the current situation."
"It's not good, sir." Sparrow(Goodwitch) said from the screen, her mask on. "Snow was injured in her fight against Fall."
"How badly?"
"A dislocated shoulder and a few deep cuts to her abdomen and face. But she's expecting to recover, by the time you'll arrive at Solis. The healing powder, that you provided us, is really helping."
"That is good." Ironwood said. "Has she exposed herself to anyone, during your mission?"
"Negative. She may be rebellious, but she understands why she can't been seen, unmasked."
"...Good. Now then. When we arrive, you will meet with me at the Mayor's office, where we will speak with the mayor of Solis. He'll give us the location of the relic, and we will recover it for safe keeping."
"Understood, sir. After seeing the power of the relic that we already have, we shouldn't let it fall to Torchwick's hands." Sparrow is silent for a few seconds, before speaking again. "Permission to speak honestly, sir."
"Granted."
"Okay, then. I honestly believe that we need to tell them. Miss Rose and the others, I mean."
Weiss looks surprised at hearing Ruby's name.
"That is something in which we should not even think of, Sparrow. We both know that they're not ready, yet."
"I believe they are, sir. They've all been through a lot, this past year. Including Mister Arc. And Miss Rose. And if we were to work together, it would make our mission easier. And...Arc deserves to know about his family's history with our group."
"...Perhaps you may be right." Ironwood said. "But I'll think about it, on the way to Solis."
Sparrow bows her head. "Until then, I will attend to Snow. I will see you at Solis."
The screen turns off. Ironwood puts his Scroll away and proceeds to head to the door. But the sound of something hitting the floor makes him turn back quickly.
Weiss, her eyes wide, looks at Myrtenaster on the ground.
"Dammit!" She thought.
Ironwood takes out his pistol and aims at where the noise comes from.
"Show yourself. NOW! Or I will shoot!"
He sees a a pair of arms appear from behind a crate and puts his finger on the trigger. Weiss stands up and shows herself to Ironwood, who is surprised and sheathes his gun.
"Miss Schnee! What are you doing in the cargo hold? You should be back in Atlas."
"I wanted to help, General." Weiss answered. "After what happened to Blake and Jaune, I knew that I couldn't just stand around anymore. So I kinda...stowed away into this ship."
"...How much did you hear?"
"Enough." Weiss answered again. "So, you're really going to tell them?"
"I haven't decided that, yet." Ironwood answered. "But Sparrow has a good point. We've kept this secret from the others, for far too long. And Arc does need to know about his family's past."
"When he finds out...no doubt, he'll be in denial." Weiss said. "But he'll eventually come around."
"He'll have to. Until then, I would suggest you grab your belongings and head to an empty room. It's going to be take a few hours to get to Solis."
Ironwood then turns back to the door and reaches for the knob.
"Who's Snow?"
Ironwood stops and just sighs.
"I need to know, General." Weiss said. "I know that she and Sparrow have been kind people. Even though, I've seen some of their...interesting methods of interrogation. But I haven't gotten the slightest clue to their identities."
"Miss Schnee." Ironwood said, turning to Weiss. "You and your family may know about the Order...but you are not a member. Therefore, their identities will remain hidden from you. Come on."
Ironwood opens the door. Weiss picks up Myrtenaster and her case and proceeds to follow Ironwood out of the cargo hold.
ATLAS AIRSHIP - PRISON CELL
Ruby opens the door that leads to Jaune's cell. When she enters, Ruby is surprised to see his bed empty.
"Hey."
Ruby turns to see Jaune, sitting in the corner and staring at the ground.
"You're not in your bed." Ruby said.
"I told Wes that I wouldn't attempt to escape this cell at all." Juane answered. "That I would just stay and sit in a corner. So he had me unrestrained."
Ruby then crouches in front of Jaune and looks at him.
"Are you okay?"
Jaune lifts his head and looks at Ruby. "I'm a little better. Just trying to get through the horrible things that Cinder had me go through."
Ruby looks at the multiple cuts and bruises on Jaune's body and face. She then rolls one her sleeves up, showing the cuts and burns that she has.
"Guess we're scar buddies, now." Ruby said, smiling.
Jaune slightly chuckles for a few seconds, before his smile fades. "How come you're here?"
"We had a vote." Ruby answered. "And we ended with a tie. So...you're basically the tie breaker."
"And what am I voting for?"
"The vote is for staying here and defending Solis, for as long as possible."
Jaune nods. "I see."
"I need your vote, in order to break the tie, Jaune." Ruby said. "A simple yes or no will be fine with me."
Jaune lowers his head back down. "I can't."
Ruby looks surprised. "What? Why?"
"...Because...because Pyrrha is still here. In Solis."
Ruby is now confused. "Why would Pyrrha being here, be a problem."
Jaune looks back at Ruby. "She hasn't told you. Hasn't she?"
"Tell me what?"
"...I think the 3 of us need to discuss, what went on, during my time with Cinder."
"I don't think that's a good idea." Ruby said. "Wes said that you shouldn't be near Pyrrha."
"...Pyrrha's a Maiden." Jaune said, with anger in her voice. "If I do something, she'll stop me. But I won't attack her. I don't even want to."
"I still don't think, it's a good idea." Ruby said. "Even if I wanted to, I'd have to ask her."
"Well you could ask her, right now." Jaune said. "She's outside, right now."
Ruby turns to the door, stands up and opens it. She sees Pyrrha, who was reaching for the door lever when it opened. Pyrrha is surprised to see Ruby and lowers her arm.
"Hi." She said, he voice a little raspy.
Ruby leaves the room and closes the door behind her.
"Is Jaune doing okay?" Pyrrha asked.
"He's okay." Ruby answered. "Just...a bit depressed. How come, you're here?"
"To check on him." Pyrrha answered. "To see if he's okay."
"That's kinda dangerous." Ruby said. "Given what he tried to do, yesterday."
"What he did was understandable" Pyrrha said. "Even though he tried to strangle me...he had every right to."
"...Why? What did you do?"
"...I think we should talk inside. No one else will be able to hear us."
Ruby opens the door, with Pyrrha following her. The two enter the cell. Pyrrha sees the empty bed and looks around until she see's Jaune in the corner. Jaune is angrily staring at her. Pyrrha lowers her head and backs to the wall. Ruby stands in between them. And the 3 of them are silent.
ROOM
Yang is supporting Blake, who has another coughing fit, a rag over her mouth. After a few seconds, the coughing stops and Yang takes the purple covered rag to a trash can, throwing it away.
"It's getting worse." Blake said. "Sooner or later-"
"Don't think that." Yang said, before gently pushing Blake back, until she lies down on the bed. "Just get some sleep. Okay?"
Blake nods and Yang lifts a blanket. She places the blanket on top of Blake, whose eyes began closing. After falling asleep, Yang gives Blake a kiss to her forehead.
"I'll have you cured, shortly. I promise you."
Yang then stands up and proceeds to leave the room, leaving the sleeping Blake alone.
JAIL CELL
Ruby, Pyrrha and Jaune are still in silent, as each wait for someone to speak.
"Seriously?" Ruby asked. "We're just going to stand here, and be silent?"
Jaune begins to stand up, which makes Pyrrha begin to back away. But all Jaune does is walk another direction and sits on his bed.
"I...I think...I should speak first." Pyrrha said."
"Okay, then." Ruby said. "Speak."
Pyrrha starts to talk, but suddenly stops and is silent. She is like that for a few seconds, before talking again.
"When Jaune was..." She grabs her neck. "Strangling me...he said something. Something in which caused him to attack me. His mind wasn't messed with nor was he being controlled. I did something that made him almost kill me."
Jaune raises his head up, an angry look on his face. Pyrrha sees his face and looks away. Ruby notices this. "Pyrrha? What did you do?"
Pyrrha breathing increases, shakily inhaling before speaking. "It wasn't Cinder that killed Jaune's parents." Tears fall from her eyes. "I did."
Ruby begins to look shocked at hearing this. She turns to look at Jaune, who is breathing heavily.
"I was under Cinder's control, at the time." Pyrrha said, continuing. "She wanted to hurt Jaune, emotionally. Especially after Neo died. But she wanted it to look like she killed his parents. Just so she can tell him the truth, later."
"And you knew this the whole time!" Jaune exclaims, standing up. "All of these months! And you didn't tell me. Or any of us!"
"Because I was afraid!" Pyrrha exclaims. "You guys were still doubting me. You may have accepted me back. But some of you still thought, I was going to be Stryker again. I wanted to wait for the right time."
"Well it would seem, it's too late." Jaune said. "No need anymore. Guess it was a waste of time to wait."
"...Yeah." Pyrrha said. "I guess it was."
When Pyrrha tries to walk to Jaune, Ruby stops between them.
"I think it's time for you to leave." Ruby said. "Head back to the conference room. I'll be there in a few minutes. Now!"
Pyrrha lowers her head and proceeds to leave the room. Ruby then turns around to look at Jaune.
"Well...that was very unexpected." She said. "Are you okay?"
Jaune nods. "I'm not. Just knowing that I've been fighting alongside my own parents' killer. And for that person to be my own best friend...it's just painful to know this."
"...Yeah. I suppose it is."
Jaune raises his head. "She needs to go."
"You know I can't do that, Jaune." Ruby said. "Pyrrha is a Maiden. And important to our cause."
"But she can still be controlled." Jaune said. "If Cinder was able to force Yang to submit, no doubt she'll find a way to get to Pyrrha and force her to become Stryker again."
Ruby sighs and rests her hands on her head. "We just can't tell her to go and never come back. It's wrong and she is more vulnerable alone."
Jaune is about to speak, but Ruby raises her hand.
"But...you do have a point. It's a risk having Pyrrha here. This is a tough spot for me. I'll need to think about it."
Ruby then proceeds to turn and walk towards the door. Jaune just watches Ruby leave the room. He then proceeds to lower his head, staring at the ground.
HALLWAY
Pyrrha walks down the hallway, staring at the ground. As she approaches the conference room, she hears a throat clearing. She turns around and sees Yang approaching her.
"Can I talk to you for a second?" Yang asked.
Pyrrha nodded. "Of course. How's Blake doing?"
"...Worse." She answered. "Might not have another day in her, left."
"...I'm...I'm so sorry." Pyrrha said.
"There's a way." Yang said. "There's a way to save her, though."
"Is there?" Pyrrha asked. "The doctors here in Solis don't have anything that'll help."
"I'm not talking about medicine." Yang said. "I'm talking about Jaune's Semblance."
"His Semblance?"
"Yes. I know for a fact, that he can expand his Semblance to the point, where he can heal the injuries of others. But he's just not listening. I was hoping-"
"I can't." Pyrrha said. "Juane refuses to speak to me. I cannot tell you why. But I can't talk to him."
"...I see. But what will it take to convince him?"
Pyrrha takes some time to think, before answering. "Well...if one would seriously injure himself to the point of near death, then I suppose that would convince Jaune. But I don't see why anyone would take that chance."
"...Oh." Yang said. "I see. Well at least we tried, right? I um...I need to be alone."
"Do you want Ruby to know where?"
Yang nods. "No need. It'll be for a few minutes."
Yang the walks away from the hallway, while Pyrrha enters the conference room.
ATLAS - SCHNEE MANSION
Klein is happily humming while polishing several of the silverware in the kitchen. As he does, he is unaware of the person behind him.
"Excuse me."
Klein stops and turns around. Oscar stands across from him, holding a duffel bag and Ozpin's cane.
"May I help you, young man?" Klein asked, before becoming suspicious. "Hold on a second. How did you enter the premises?"
"From the secret compartment in the library." Oscar said. "Wasn't that hard to find."
Klein looked surprised. "The only people to know about that are Ironwood, Ozpin and I. And Ironwood is away for the time being."
Oscar scratches the back of his head. "Well...here's the thing. You may not believe what I'm about to tell you."
Klein then takes a look at Ozpin's cane, before looking back at Oscar. "Try me."
SOLIS - CONFERENCE ROOM
Everyone except for Yang are sitting in the conference room. Ruby opens the door and enters. As the others watch her, Ruby notices Yang's empty seat.
"Where's Yang?"
"She said that she needed some time alone." Pyrrha answered.
"And why did she need some time alone?" Ruby asked, with some anger in her voice.
"...I...I may have told her that Jaune's Semblance might be out of option."
"Jaune's Semblance?" Nora asked.
Pyrrha looks at Nora. "Yang believes that Jaune could expand his abilities to the point of being able to heal others, other than him. Yang wanted Jaune to heal Blake. But when I told her, she was upset. So she left."
"Are you even positive that Jaune's Semblance is out of the question?" Sun asked. "I mean...if it is possible, he could cure Blake."
"Even if he does, he's never tried it out on anyone before." Pyrrha said. "The only way for this to happen is to..."
Pyrrha freezes before her eyes open wide is horror. Ruby notices this.
"Pyrrha?"
Pyrrha quickly stands up. She then quickly runs to the door and leaves. Ruby then proceeds to run after her.
JAIL CELL
Jaune takes a look in the mirror that's in the cell. He takes a look at the multiple scars on his face and chest, before looking back at himself. The sound of a door opening is heard. Jaune turns around to see Yang entering.
"Look, Yang." He said. "I don't know why you need to ask again. I can't use my Semblance to heal others."
"How do you know, then?" Yang asked. "Have you ever tried to?"
"Of course, I haven't." Jaune. "But I do know it won't work."
"Yes it would!" Yang exclaims, before calming down. "Look. I've seen many Huntsmen will your Semblance, who can heal others, myself. And I know you do too."
Jaune angrily sighs. "And how do you expect me to prove that I can?"
"By doing a test." Yang said. "Right here. Right now."
Yang then closes her metal arm into a fist. Then she raises her metal arm and points the fist right where her heart is. Jaune looks confused at what she is doing. He looks at Yang, who has tears falling.
"And I hope you succeed."
Jaune's eyes go wide, realizing what's about to happen. "NO! YANG!"
Stab
Yang gasped as her own blade pierces through her chest and out her back. She shakily looks down and looks at what she did. Coughing and gasping, she then looks back up to Jaune, who is shocked at what she did.
"Better...hurry..."
Yang's blade retracts and she falls forward to the ground. A pool of blood begins to form. Jaune just stays frozen in shock. The collar on Yang's neck then stops beeping and it dislodges, falling to the ground. The door to the cell is slammed open. Pyrrha quickly enters the room and her eyes go wide in shock as she sees Yang lying on the ground. Pyrrha sees the collar and smashes it with her foot. She then crouches down and flips Yang to her back. Pyrrha places two fingers on Yang's neck, trying to find a pulse. But can find none.
"Yang?"
Pyrrha shakily turns and sees Ruby, a horrified look on her face.
"Yang?"
Ruby, seeing Yang lifeless on the floor, begins to start sobbing. She falls to the ground and covers her head with her arms. As Pyrrha watches Ruby sobbing, she quickly turns to look at Jaune, who is standing. She quickly runs to Jaune and grabs him.
"You have to save her! She yells.
"Save her?" Jaune said. "She's already dead!"
"But you could bring her back!" Pyrrha yells again. "Use your Semblance!"
"I can't!" Jaune said.
"YES YOU CAN!" Pyrrha scream, tears falling. "STOP DOUBTING YOURSELF! Please!"
Jaune stares at Pyrrha before looking at Ruby, who is looking at him.
"Please!" Ruby yells. "Save her." She then continues crying.
Jaune then looks at Yang, before sighing. He then walks to Yang and sits on his knees. He looks at his hands, closes his eyes and waits a few seconds. He begins to glow white and opens his eyes. Slowly exhaling, Jaune proceeds to place his hands over the stab wound and slowly concentrates.
"Please work." He said. "Please work, dammit."
That's when he suddenly sees his white glow beginning to surround Yang's body. The her head, Then her legs. All over her body. Jaune is surprised, but continues. Ruby moves closer and is seeing the wound slowly closing and disappearing. All the blood begins to flow back into Yang from her back wound, which afterwords closes and heals. After a few more seconds, Jaune grunts as he falls backwards to the ground. Exhausted, he slowly sits up.
"Did it work?" Pyrrha shakily asked.
A gasp from Yang suddenly occurs. She begins breathing erratically, before sitting back up. Ruby then quickly hugs Yang tightly, as the latter realizes that she's alive. Ruby the suddenly stops hugging and angrily grabs her clothes.
"WHAT THE HELL WERE YOU THINKING?" She screamed.
Yang doesn't answer the question, as she was looking at another direction.
"Whoa."
Ruby turns around and is surprised. Weiss, her eyes wide in shock, is standing outside. Along with her are Penny and Crystal. All three of them having watched what Juane did.
"By the gods." Crystal.
END OF CHAPTER 10
That, boys and girls, is the end of another chapter of my Volume 6 story. We're close to the mid-finale. The next chapter will be called "The Order". And Chapter 12 will be titled "Divided"
I do hope you guys understand the timing between Chapter 9 and 10. Life and my Youtube channel got in the way. Hopefully Chapter 11 will be out by next Halloween.
Here's what's going to happen in Chapter 11. We will learn about the secret society that Winter and Goodwitch are a part of. Yang struggles with her emotions. Blake tries to cope with her nightmares, while she was poisoned. The decision about Pyrrha staying will be determined. Ruby fights an inner demon(Salem) that's trying to get out. And in the end of the chapter, someone will be losing a limb. Literally.
All right, you guys. See you guys later!