…

Act I

Birthright

How far do ya' think the Queens reign is anyway? What're the borders of the Vale? Aye, my farm covers plenty, but one of these days, I'd like to see that kingdom of Vacuo myself. Too afraid to go though, I hear there're some nasty monsters in the jungles between em'… You know what? How's about we go together some time, you and me? I'll pack something to fight with, use my saven's to hire a man or too and we can head out. What you think?

Conversation between a farmer and his hand, who later ventured through the Valean Jungles to Vacuo. Their whereabouts now are unknown.

…

The ceremony is unlike any affair I could have imagined.

Hours. It was just hours after everything had calmed down. Hours after nobles had sent their men to kill me, they stood now before me.

The throne room had been scrubbed.

Over fifty corpses had been removed and the blood washed from the floors before it could stain.

And now, here I am, sitting on the throne again while some stranger reads off a long scroll.

Apparently, this whole thing's a bit of a slap-dash, according to Glynda at least.

Since the whole thing was instigated by a surprise appearance on my part, oaths and holy ceremony have been disregarded for the moment. She'd mentioned earlier how that might change and this whole… coronation might be redone later, but since everyone is still sort of reeling from what' just happened, and my power isn't still entirely stable despite what Ozpin claims, a more efficient one is what I get.

Honestly I think I prefer it this way.

No anointing's, no long speeches about how I'll defend the sovereignty of the nation and no over the top regalia.

Instead, I've been told that all I need to do personally is sit here until someone brings up the crown, let someone put it on my head and be done with it.

'It's a little bit disappointing though… don't you think it should be grander after what we went through?'

We? As far as I can recall I'm the one that had to deal with all the headships. I don't even know what you are. You apparently don't even know what you are, if I can even believe that.

A feel a gust of air by my ear, as if… she, was letting out a huff.

'I went through it just as much as you. I may not have been able to… well, experience it completely, but I definitely felt it as much as you.'

I drown out the still ongoing, lengthy speech from the speaker at my side in favour of the conversation going on in my head, my surprise is palpable I feel.

She says she can feel things can she?

'I can,'she hums. 'Not on my own unfortunately, but things you feel I can as well. I think… I felt the pain of getting shot and removing the arrow, so that at least is evidence for it.'

I feel her shiver, which I'm not sure how, since she's inside my head. Does she have a body if she's some weird sort of mental projection? All the same, it feels as if I'm the one shivering.

'Not that it was a positive experience by any means. Just in case, I think I'll remind you that we should discourage any attempt Yang makes at being a surgeon.'

Despite myself, I stifle a laugh. Gods. Wouldn't that be embarrassing? All of this going on around me, and having people watch their queen suddenly burst out laughing for no reason.

Seriously though, what is this things - I can't even call them a person – deal? Is this another part of my visions? Is it some form of coping I've come up with to deal with the stress? Have I gone mad?

'It might be the first one, though I'm not sure how since Rose hasn't mentioned it yet. I don't it's the second, considering I've been here the whole time and I'd hope it's not the last… though…. Would we even know if that is the case?'

Aaaand apparently it can read thoughts not even directed at her.

'Indeed. I've pretty much heard everything you've been thinking. Or… not heard, considering it's not your voice and… well, I don't think I have ears. Do I? I can't really see what I look like. Or, well. Move for much at all. Don't you need air for sound to travel? Is that a jab at you being an airhead?'

Would you stop? What's with all these questions anyway? Shouldn't you already know?

'How? Honestly I have as little an idea of what's going on as you do. In fact I only have your knowledge to go off of.'

You do? How does that work?

'I… again, I don't really know. I… have only experienced what you have. That being everything you have, but nothing else.'

My eyes narrow in thought. So you only have my memories… no, you only have my experience, and yet somehow, we're still two different entities right? I mean, there's something different about you to me. They way you're… well, not talking but you know. And you sound different than my voice, or even my own thoughts for that matter.

'It is curious I agree. It's a little bit disorientating too you know? I'm here sifting through your thoughts as you have them and I have to identify which are offering to me and which you are just, well, having.'

That…. Does sound confusing. I let out a sigh.

'See! Like that one!'

I can see that. Although I'm hoping your suggestion isn't for me to stop thinking.

'I don't think you could if you tried.'

Okay, why does that sound insulting?

'…'

I can hear your silence you know!

'Well, yes, I do now, considering I perceive what you do.'

…wha?

'You're aware of something towards me, and in return I'm aware of it not only in the same way you are, but in the I am by you actually telling me.'

I suppress a groan. This is far too confusing for me to deal with right now. I'm starting to get a headache just thinking about it.

'I know, I can feel it too.' She grumbles, and again I'm taken aback with how I can feel the vibrations she makes in my own throat. This is a whole new level of weird.

It must have been something The Beacon did. That's the only explanation I can come up with. The question is… how? I can already tell the newcomer in my head don't have an answer for it.

'I'm not a newcomer. Like I said, I've always been here, you've just never noticed. But I agree. Something in the flames made things…. Clearer between us. And yes, you're right, I don't know what.'

Then how is this even useful? What's the point of having another voice in my head clogging up my thoughts if it literally can't offer me anything I don't already know?

'It's not that bad. Well, admittedly it is, but at the same time you can already see how it might help can't you? You said it yourself, how we consider ourselves two separate entities… We have the same memories and experiences… the exact same but… perhaps I can offer a second opinion.

How?

Well we do not think the same do we? That's clear from how we're having this conversation in the first place. It's…. like we have different personalities, isn't it?'

It is… which means…. You think you can give me a different outlook nothings. If we know the exact same things, but react to it differently, then it's like having an advisor inside of my head, isn't it? That even if I know something, you can bring it into focus if you think it's important.

'You read my mind.'

Yes… I think I did.

'That… was meant to be a joke.'

Oh…

I blink.

Right. Oh, yeah, now I get it.

'We'll work on that.' She assures me.

From the looks of it, we'll need to.

'At least you'll have someone to talk to right? About what Rose says… though I suppose you couldn't hide it from me anyway since I experience it too.'

That is true, unless of course we – I – actually have gone mad and this is just a symptom of it.

'We can pray that it's not… Though, if this is how it's going to be, I believe this makes us partners.'

Huh. I guess it does. Should we… introduce ourselves?

'I already know your name so… perhaps not. It's practically engraved on the back of my… well, not my hand, but you get the idea.'

True, but does that go both ways? You… called yourself Cinder, right?

'Indeed, although to be fair, technically we called me Cinder. I got the name from an idea inside your head after all.'

I mean there was a lot of fire.

'You need not worry. We may have picked it, but I choseit. I like the name.'

Well… that's good. We've been all sorts of busy with everything going on but, I guess it's nice to meet you Cinder.

I feel her nod, and at that, my eyes drift to the side.

Seriously, how long is this man going to speak for anyway?

Glynda catches my eyes actually. She's standing a little off to the right within the crowd of other nobles, watching me with a raised eyebrow.

Uh-oh.

Does she know I haven't been paying attention?

She must see the question on my face because a smirk crosses her lips and she nods slowly to me, eyebrows raising a little bit higher as I fight back a blush of embarrassment. Right then. I should probably start paying attention then shouldn't I?

'You know,' Cinder murmurs suddenly. 'There are a few interesting tricks we could try out while we're sitting here. All we're doing anyway is listening to this man drawl on. Seriously we should probably think about firing him when this is finished.'

A tempting idea, but ultimately not something I'm going to do I think. These trick that Cinder mentions on the other hand… well she's right. I'm not really doing much right now.

'I'm glad you see it my way. It's not much, actually it's something I realised we can do while we were speaking. It's not much but I feel like it may be useful, or at least some fun.'

Well she's got me interested now.

'Good. Now… don't move your head. Keep facing forwards right in the centre and move your eyes right. Keep them on Glynda.'

I do so, turning back to the older woman, who gives me a surprised look all of a sudden. I'm not sure why exactly, but I smile her way all the same.

After a moment, she returns it.

'Now, tell me. What what's happening on our left?'

And how am I supposed to do that? My eyes are on the-

…wait a minute.

What am I seeing here?

I blink, trying to decipher it.

I know for a fact that I'm looking right at Glynda, but at the same time, an entirely different set of images are playing themselves in my head.

I… It looks like what I can see out of the corner of my eye.

Am I seeing what's on my left side too?

I already know the answer to that.

Cinder's looking the other way. She's looking to my left while I look right!

'By the looks of it, we share the same eyes but not the same vision. I can't see anything that you wouldn't be able to, but it is as if I'm looking through your eyes like a window.'

And whatever Cinder sees so can I in return. That… is all sorts of weird, but if it doesn't sound like something I could use I don't know what does.

I can say goodbye to tunnel vision at least, right?

Heh, if I'm honest, this is kind of cool. I'll need to take a minute later and-

"What say you, your majesty?"

Eh?

'Eh?'

I look up, blinking at the speaker, who's turned his eyes to me, along with every other man and woman in the room.

Did…. Did he just ask me a question?

I suddenly feel incredibly self-conscious. Oh gods, everyone's looking at me and I haven't been listening this whole time! What do I do? What did he ask?

Cinder?

'I have no idea! I haven't been paying attention to that man's drivel for the last thirty minutes!'

Damn it.

Well… it's not like this is a life or death thing right? It's just a little bit of embarrassment. They'll know I wasn't listening and probably laugh about my mistake in private.

…No. Death is better.

Screw it, in for a penny right?

I clear my throat. He'd asked me a question so I should probably respond.

"…Yes?"

Cinder's eyes moved and I see Glynda let out a sigh of relief.

Profit?

"Very well." He nods. "Then it is time to being, the most final of acts." He turns, raining his arm high into the air and raises his voice. "Her Majesty as completed the oath, rejoice now for our future."

Before my eyes, the nobles cheer. The same nobles that had distrusted me not even a day ago. The realisation that they can be so… fake, makes my stomach churn. I say silent however, as Ozpin suddenly appears before me and bows.

I suppose that makes sense. In a way he was my sponsor. In the eyes of others, he and I would likely work close together.

Not that I'm really paying attention to him.

No. My eyes are on what is in his hands.

An intricate carving of roses, moulded in a circlet. The centre of each dotted with sparkling Rubies, and the rose petals shinning a beautiful gold.

Huh…

Honestly, with the colour scheme of the throne I thought it would have been silver.

"Crafted by the finest jewellers in the city," Ozpin smiles, mistaking my silence for speechlessness. "The noble court decided on a craftsmanship they feel was fitting for you your Majesty. Stunning is it not?"

Honestly? It was. I'd never seen something so… rich.

This was a symbol of wealth like no other. The Tribe could sell this for millions, they would never have to worry about food, clothes or anything else for years if they got their hands on this.

But it was more than that wasn't it?

This wasn't just a symbol of wealth.

It was a symbol of power.

This is the last confirmation that this was it.

I'm queen.

And as the crown is set upon my head, Ozpin smiles.

"I believe it suits you. Congratulations your majesty."

Funny. I'd thought I would have felt a weight off my shoulders at the end of this road, now that what Yang said of me being the ruler was true, how I'd been more protected than ever.

Instead.

The crown feels heavy upon my head.

…

…

My prayers are answered an hour later, when the ceremony ends and I'm left on my own.

Or, at least as on my own as I can be.

Yang is off doing…. Something, I'm not sure what, but she'd gone off with Glynda, which is all sorts of strange I think. What could those two have to talk about in the first place?

Anyway, it means right now she's not with me, but even making my way down the hallways it's not entirely private. There are guards stationed nearly every twenty feet. I guess that's nice to feel safe, but if I'm honest it feels kind of… stuffy because of them.

Especially the way I can feel their eyes follow me as I pass.

Well, it doesn't matter, not right now anyway, what does, is my trip to the infirmary. Which is surprising because really, what kind of palace needs one in the first place?

Well we do, and that's all there is to it right now. I'm here, standing in front of it, it's actually rather plain looking. A simple wooden door like it was any other room or office.

For a long time, it likely hasn't seen use, not until very recently, when Weiss had been admitted.

I knock on the door hesitantly. "Hello?" I call through. "May I come in?"

There's shuffling behind the door for a moment before it creaks open and I see a familiar face.

It should be. She's the one that treated my wounds.

"Ah! Your majesty," Peach blinks. "I didn't think you'd be here."

I smile politely. "Hello Doctor. May I came in?"

She chuckles, opening the door wide enough for me to slip through. "You're the queen now, and this is your palace. I don't think you need to ask permission to enter its rooms. Especially from someone like me."

I shrug in return. "It seems like the polite thing to do, not just because you're working here at the moment but… well, you already know what you've done for me."

"Yes, I do… though, I'll admit if I had known who you were I might have been more likely to send you away."

Yeah, I'd guessed that. Not that I could blame her for it, it would have been the smart thing to do for sure.

I shake my head. "Let's not think about it, what's done is done. Can I ask about Weiss?"

"She-"

"I'm right here your Majesty."

I nearly jump out of my skin as Weiss' face meets my ears and I don't do as well at restraining my sped as I spin to face her. I hadn't even noticed her with her armour off, laying down on the table beside her.

Thankfully she doesn't seem to notice my shock. Peach does though, her shoulders are shaking.

Damn it. Isn't it punishable to laugh at your queen?

I clear my throat and make my way over to the lieutenant, and now that I get a good look at her in the aftermath I… feel cold.

The left side of Weiss' face is wrapped in bandages, slightly reddened by now old blood and over the eye itself.

I can't help myself. I raise a hand to her face, trailing my fingers over the wrappings. She lets me, her good eye drifting shut as I take her in. Shame pools in the pits of my stomach.

Gods.

"I'm so sorry Weiss."

She sighs. "Your majesty, I already said that-"

"I know what you said." I growl, cutting her off sharply. It makes her jump a little, and I have to force myself to calm down. I feel a hand on my shoulder, one that isn't there, as Cinder soothes me from the depths of my mind.

I turn my head slightly to Peach. "Can you give us a minute or two? Just… just a few?"

The woman with hair to match her name bows her head. "Of course your Majesty, I'll wait outside and leave you to… talk."

I nod turning back to a surprised Weiss as the door opens and shuts behind me.

A frown spreads across my face. "This is my fault," I tell her. "I know you said it wasn't, but we both know that isn't true. If I hadn't gone through with this the way I did then… I don't know. Things could have been different."

No. I know they could have been different. Listening to Ozpin's method had still been a success for some of the Roses.

But no. I had to be different, I had to be special and do things my own way.

How stupid am I?

My eyes screw shut as I grit my teeth angrily. "I shouldn't' have even gotten you involved in the first place Weiss. You were already doing your duty in the city. I should never have taken advantage of your promise to put you in this sort of danger. If we hadn't met the way we did then I-"

"Ruby, stop."

I do, but only because her voice is so firm that it's instinctual.

My eyes open and Weiss sighs. Once again, I will say it. This decision was my own. Whether or not I knew of the danger it was one I made of my own volition. For that you should feel no guilt."

"Shouldn't I? We both know it Weiss, you promised to protect me yes, but only because of how I acted."

"You meant decent? Respectable? Kind? In what world would such qualities ever be considered bad things?"

"When they're what manipulates you to put your life on the line!" I snap.

"Manipulate?" she frowns "Is that what you call how you acted towards me?"

"What else would you call it?" I cry, throwing my hands up in the air. "Poor little princess Ruby with no idea what she was doing needs the honourable knight to protect her. I played on your fantasy! I used the fact that you stuck by your word to my advantage! You only promised to protect me because of who I was and I used that."

"That's just irrational!" Weiss scowls back at me. "Where is this suddenly coming from?"

I look away, silent. She doesn't get it. Why can't she understand that she could have died and it would have been because of me? Even when I'd seen her corpse nailed to a fucking wall she'd had no such injuries on her face and here, now, she's… she's…

I choke back the wretch that builds up in my throat, and force myself to ignore how badly my eyes sting.

I know unequivocally that my actions are what has caused this.

It's my faul-

I freeze as Weiss' hands take hold of mine, raising them up to her face.

"W-what are you-" I groan, clearing my throat of the quiver that tints my voice. "What are you doing?"

"Showing you."

I open my mouth to ask what, but before I can, Weiss had weaved my fingers into the edges of her bandages.

"Weiss!" I hiss. "You can't take them off!"

"The worst has passed already," she assures me. "They're just there to keep the blood from dripping down my face now."

Before my eyes the bandages fall away and I see the damage that has been done.

The feeling in my core feels even worse now.

"I-I-" My voice cracks, and I want so bad to look away.

There's a long, jagged line run right over her eye, bright red and painful, it's like someone took a paintbrush and swiped down over her face. The edges of the spoiled flesh are ripped fresh and even if I know it'll eventually improve, there's no doubt that it'll scar forever. I want so much to look away. But I can't. I can't look away, because Weiss is smiling.

"I can still see from it Ruby." She murmurs. "Peach was able to save it. All it is, is a mark, a wound sustained in battle, nothing else. You are a queen, not a warrior. It isn't something you should ever feel guilty of." She scowls again. "And don't let me hear you speak ill of how you acted towards me. Despite what I did to you when we first met, you treated me better than anyone else has since I came to Vale. Do you understand that? You forgave me for my actions back then, said that they didn't matter, now I'm returning those words. Don't ever feel shame for my choices. I don't regret them one but, and if I really had lost my eye, I would have considered it worth the price of keeping you safe."

My eyes fall to the floor. "I know you would. That's just how you are."

And then, before I can really understand what I'm doing, reversing our hands so I'm the one holding hers, and draw them to my face.

"R-ruby?"

I don't answer, sighing deeply instead. Her hands feel cold, almost like ice but…. Right now, they feel… I don't know, like I needed them.

The heat in my body, the stress and tiredness leaks out through my skin at her touch, and I close my eyes, sighing again.

"Thank you." I whisper. "For… everything you've done, even though… I know it's more than what your duty would have required you to do. For what it's worth, I think you're the kind of knight that every other should aspire to."

I'm not brave enough to open my eyes and see her expression, but the sheer joy, as much Weiss as it could be, is enough to make me smile.

"Thank you Ruby. That means more to me than you know."

I nod, letting go a moment later and stepping back. The tears in my eyes may not have fallen, but all the same, a run a hand over my face to wipe them away.

"So… what are you going to do now?"

Weiss lets out a breath, taking a glance down at the hand I'd held, for deciding on something I'm not privy to and shrugging.

"Now? Things go back to the way they were, for me at least. You'll be queen, and I'll go back to the captain." She smiled wirily at me. "You need not worry though, I'll do my best to keep Vale in order and its people safe, you have my word."

Right. That was it wasn't it?

Weiss would go back down there to the city, back to her position as lieutenant.

I…

Don't know why that sounds so upsetting to me.

It's good isn't it? She'd return to Port, who'd no doubt be proud of all she's accomplished.

Weiss would be too. I know it. She'd wear her achievement, her actions and the fact that I sit upon the throne because of her as a badge of honour.

As she should!

But the idea… doesn't sit well with me.

'Neither does it with me. How troublesome. Weiss is the perfect example of a knight. We both know down there in the city that as well as she would do, she will be wasted as a mere lieutenant.'

She would be.

"Weiss," I say suddenly. "Could you grant me one more request?"

She blinks in surprise, straightening up. "Of course your- Ruby! Just say the word and whatever you wish I'll do!"

"Could you stay here? At least until tomorrow when I speak to the court again?"

"I… yes, I can if that is what you wish. But… is there a reason why? If I may ask?"

I bite my lip. "I just think you should be there. It's complicated but… I've come to a decision on something and I think you should be there to hear it."

After a moment, she nods. "Very well. You have my word that I will be there."

My shoulders slump suddenly as I relax. "Good. That's good. Then, I'll leave you be."

"Thank you your Majesty."

I nod, and with that, make my way out of the infirmary. On my way out, Peach nods to me.

"I will remain until I can procure Lieutenant Schnee a proper treatment, something to help her manage her scar when it, well, begins to itch.

I swallow. "Thank you. And, I'd appreciate it if afterwards you could stay on… for… employment."

The older woman stares at me. "I- I'm sorry?"

At least at her surprise, I can find some amusement in it. "I'm offering you a position here. If you want it."

That doesn't seem to help much, in fact it just makes her eyes widen further. "But, why?"

"You said it yourself didn't you? You might have turned me away if you had known who I was, but honestly, I don't think you would have. You would have helped a little girl bleeding out no matter what their last name was. Without you I probably would have died anyway. This… it's your reward, if you want to think of it like that. You deserve one."

I nod to her, turning away to leave her in that state, and as I do, I very clearly hear her stumble back into the room.

I smile. For now, it's enough.

'So then, what now?'

Don't you already know the answer? I think we should head to the palace's library, I believe there's some reading we need to do.

…

…

The mumbles of courts are muffled by my own thoughts, but I get the general consensus.

This is the first time the new queen will get to properly interact with her assortment of nobles. On any other day, that might have been enough to make me feel a little bit queasy, but today, things were different. I'd spent the night in the library looking over what I need to know for today.

I found a lot, but the most interesting actually came from circumstance.

Apparently short naps weren't enough to force me into visions of the future.

I'm not really sure as to why that is the case, but it's an interesting titbit all the same.

Other than that, the number of nobility has shrunk today. Most had convened here due to Ozpin's call, but most of them had lands that needed tending to far out from the city. While many likely wanted to see how I'd fair on my first few days, their own fiefdoms came first, which lowered the number of people within the royal court at the moment from over a hundred to a more manageable forty.

Still a big enough number, but the difference is honestly more noticeable than the fact that they're here at all.

For the last few hours while I've sat on the throne, each has gone over the situation as they see it within the kingdom, and generally just introduced themselves formally.

Most were, well, mundane and felt like a slog to get through, but one or two were interesting.

Like one man, what was his name?

'Oobleck.'

Right! That was it. Oobleck. A man with wild bright green hair and spoke so fast I almost got dizzy. He was enthusiastic though, most so than I'd though nobles were allowed to be, and told me how much he looked forward to working with me.

He was the first I actually believed.

'We can ask Glynda about his background later, for now though, there is a lull in the conversation, it would be best to use it.'

I nod quickly, eyes drifting off to the side. I can see Weiss, in the crowd just like she'd promised. Yang was next to her, from what I can see, talking her ear off, and the lieutenant looks like she's listening while keeping an eye on the people around her. Her lips move ever so often, answering the questions my sister throws her way or giving her opinion on something every so often, which from what I can see, makes the blonde laugh more than once. I know that now is the right time and with Cinder's encouragement, I stand.

All at once, the court falls into silence.

'Don't look nervous.'

I know, I'm just going over my lines.

I take a breath, raising my voice so that all can hear it.

"Weiss Schnee. Step forward."

The room descends into whispers almost immediately. Most, likely don't even know who she is, but as soon as she steps into the centre of the room, dressed in her armour, sword at her side and white hair clearly on display, most can piece together at least what she is.

I wonder how many are upset that I've called forward at Atlesian before any of them.

I know Weiss can sense it just as well as I can, because she looks a little nervous. I see her swallow as she clears her throat. "Yes your Majesty?"

Right. Here's where it begins.

"State your title."

"Your grace?"

"State your name, position and title, Weiss Schnee."

Unsure of what to do, she does so. "Weiss Schnee, lieutenant stationed under Captain Peter Port of Vale's eastern district and… second daughter of the Schnee line, members of the Atlesian Tribunal."

Huh. That last one is surprising.

I guess I'll have to file that away to ask her about it later. Right now though, something more important.

"You state yourself as Atlesian, yet as a member of The Vale's army, you swore to serve Vale, have you not?"

"… I have your Majesty."

"And yet, when given orders by your queen, you refused to follow them."

That gets a defined reaction from the people around us. They look excited. They think they're going to see something. Well they're right in that regard.

Weiss' eyes dark around fearfully, then back to me, confusion written across her face clear as day. "Your Majesty?"

I can't give the game away yet. "Did I not say that once I became queen, I would give you what you deserved for refusing that order?"

A pause.

She swallows.

"You… you did."

I hum, turning away from her for a moment. And pace back and forth before her. "Did you know, that centuries ago, when Vale was at the very height of its power, it had Atlesian's in its service?" I glance at her. "Well?"

Weiss' eyes meet mine, and I can see the question in them.

'What do you want me to say?'

The truth, I want to tell her, but here in front of so many eyes, that's not possible.

After a moment, she answers.

"I did not your grace."

"It's an interesting little bit of history to be sure." I say. "Nowadays, it isn't of much use all things considered, but from what I've read they were a sight to behold. They had their own titles specifically for them too, considering the positions they were given."

I stop, right in front of her.

"Lieutenant Schnee. Give me your sword."

In an instant Weiss' shoulders go ridged, hand falling to the pommel of her blade.

"Your grace… this is a family blade. It's been with us for generations."

The wrong thing to say, I know it, she knows it and everyone around us knows it, because they've devolved into hushed gasps at what is essentially Weiss refusing my words.

I know why too.

She doesn't know what to think of my sudden act.

And that's what it is, an act.

Come on Weiss, this needs to be a statement to everyone, just go with it!

I hope my voice sounds as regal as it does in my head.

"Then I'm sure that will make it all the more impactful. Now, Lieutenant Weiss, offer me your sword.

Hesitantly, Weiss unsheathed her sword, the hiss of steel cutting through the whispers. She turns the blade, tip aimed towards her heart.

I grasp the sabre firmly and raised it up to my face, gazing at my reflecting in the steel.

"According to Vale customs, The Beacon is revered as a divine flame, and as such, gives me the authority to bless those beneath me, which is good, because it means I can do this without the fuss of going through so many people."

And there it is.

I can see it in her eyes, something just clicks and she suddenly realises what's going on. Her mouth falls open.

"Y-you're majesty you… are you-?"

"It is true you went against my orders. You ignored me, disobeyed me… and for that, I am grateful."

And everyone around us goes very quiet. In the corner of my eye, I can see yeah, in the shadow of the balcony with a massive grin plastered on her face.

I gaze straight into Weiss' eyes.

And smile.

"Weiss Schnee; you displayed honour and loyalty in staying by my side through the events of the past few days, where many would have stepped aside, or simply distanced themselves, you promised to stay by me, and you did. You showed courage and valour in not only defending me, but would have laid down your life to protect my own, something that was only avoided because of your own skill, your own will."

My eyes don't leave Weiss, but I can feel Cinder's roaming the room. Not all of them have quite got it yet, but those who have look tremendously entertained.

I continue.

"In the days leading up to this, you showed not only generosity in providing me shelter, but compassion and wisdom in offering me council, in allowing me to speak my mind in a way that strengthened my own resolve. For that, I am thankful, but even more so, I desire to learn from your example."

'Laying it on a little thick aren't you?'

This was literally the basic guideline for knighthood they had in the library you know this!

"And finally, I have seen in you the blossoming of humility, of hardship and the willingness to learn and change in the face of new knowledge. All of this, I see in you, and it is something I cannot ignore, no matter that your blood is that of Atlas."

"And so… I have a question for you."

I lift the tip of the sabre to her shoulder, and I hear the tiniest hiss as she takes a sharp breath.

"Weiss Schnee, do you, as a noble borne of Atlas, pledge your service to The Vale, to the crown and to its people?"

"I-I do!" she gasps, disbelief, but more than that, excitement in her voice. "Yes! I do!"

"Then take the pledge. I believe you know the words, or at least your own variation of them. Declare them here before me and the court. Tell me who you are, tell me what you are."

There is a pause, and Weiss takes a breath.

And she speaks the Knights Vows.

"I am the shield of the weak and the sword of the fierce, I am the Argus of the defenceless and demon of the damned. To this end, I pledge my body to the kingdom, my soul to the crown and my heart to the people of Vale. In peace there is valour, in war there is honour and in both I lay down my life. This I swear it by the name of the gods and by my name, let my pledge be written down in the annals and may my actions hold true until my end."

'She changed then a little bit, I wonder if that was on purpose.'

"Then first, I grant you the title of Sire Schnee," I announce, tapping her sabre on her left shoulder, and then her right. knight of The Vale. May you serve with all of your spirit until your last day."

Weiss lets out a stuttering breath. She clearly can't believe this, I can see on her face, how she's reeling from what's just happened.

'Poor Weiss then, we're not quite finished.'

"And for your actions," I raise my voice again, cutting off the chatter of the nobles before it can even begin. I can see it all around me; how they've already started planning. What I've just done has already gone against what the council has allowed. Knighting a foreigner, most must be in some form or another of shock.

But they're thinking, scheming. I can see the gears turning in their head. They want to know how they can use the newly appointed knight to their advantage. They want to see if they can use her to get to me, to push their narrative, their desires.

A pit of snakes, truly.

Fortunately, I already have an answer to that.

'You're welcome by the way.'

You're me, shush.

"For your skill and abilities, there is more I must grant you, more that must be awarded to one of your calibre. Sir Schnee, you have shown that I can rely on you once already, I wish to do so again. And so, I bestow upon you the name given to those Altesian's of old. The bodyguard of the crown,

The Myrtenaster."

"I hope you can live up to your duty."

…

…

Most of the court day went as expected I think, that being the general shock of what I'd just proclaimed. People didn't know what to expect, that was for sure, and after what I'd just done, I'd reaffirmed myself as an anomaly.

Good.

I need that.

People wouldn't be able to make plans around me if they couldn't predict what I would do.

Of course… there's a danger to that. If they think I'm too much of a danger then… I guess they could react poorly.

Well, in for a penny right?

'Please don't.' Cinder mutters as I make my way down the hallway, this one, to my bedchambers. I haven't even seen them yet, so I'm kind of excited. 'I'm fairly certain that I'll share your fate. I would appreciate it if you didn't encourage another coup.'

We still need to talk about that you know? If Rose doesn't give me any answers to you then I'm going to freak out.

"Ruby!"

I stop in my tracks, turning to the voice of my new bodyguard as she jogs towards me.

A moment later she's halted in front of me and breathing heavily. How long has she been looking for me?

"I…" she pants. "I want to know why."

I tilt my head. "What do you mean?"

Weiss shook her head. "What do I mean? You- You just…. You knighted me!"

I frown. "Was… that a mistake? Did I do something wrong?"

"Yes –I mean- No, but, to do something like that in front of…. Them I… why did you do it?"

"I already told you Weiss, didn't I? I told all of them out there exactly why I did it."

"But to me. An Atlesian!"

"That doesn't matter to me. I mean, okay, the nobility thing I'd guess because, I mean you're you, but I didn't expect you to be as high up as you told everyone." I blink. "Do you think that'll cause problems? That I knighted you? You said your family's part of the tribunal isn't it?"

Weiss sighs, understanding that she's not going to get any great revelation out of me right now because really, I don't have one. I wanted Weiss to stay here, and this is the perfect way!

'We both know there were other ways. A simple order would have been enough.'

Would you have left Weiss unrewarded for all she did?

'Hm… not at all.'

"No I…. don't believe it would matter." Weiss tells me. "I… well there are certain circumstances back home that allow me to make my own decisions in this regard. But… I just…"

"Weiss," I mutter softly, stepping forward and resting a hand on her shoulder in what I hope is a comforting way. She looks genuinely distraught. "Tell me what's wrong?"

The silence draws out for a good minute.

Before she finally sighs.

"It's just… I don't know Ruby. Being a knight has been my goal, my dream for years, even before I left Atlas it's what I've wanted to be and I… I worked so hard to get where I was, and even though I thought, deep down that here in Vale that I'd never get the chance to become a knight I pushed forward." She shakes her head incredulously. "And then you just come out of nowhere, the princess of the kingdom, you take the crown back in a matter of days and the next thing I know you've given me what I've wanted this whole time. In the blink of an eye!"

She looks away. "I just… this can't be real. This can't have been your decision"

The realisation hits me like a hammer.

"You think this is some mistake don't you?" I whisper. "You think you're just going to get a wakeup call and all of this will disappear? You don't know what to think about the status I've given you"

A look of shame crosses over her face. "I-I don't mean to take away from your decisions Ruby but I fear you've made a mistake. There are many knights with far more experience, more connections and wisdom that I do. Any of them could have been someone to have at your side. I… I fear that your opinion of my capabilities are coloured by biased and I don't wish to endanger you with my failures."

I stare.

Once again, Weiss those something at me that I honestly have no clue how to respond. What am I supposed to that?!

What would Yang do?

Oh!

Without much thought, I raise my fist and throw a punch at Weiss' arm.

As expected, it doesn't do much in terms of hurting her.

What it does do, is freeze her.

She blinks, looking down at her arm where my fist had connected, and then slowly back up to me.

"Wha-"

"Stop being stupid, stupid!"

"Wha-"

"Do you have that little faith in me that you'd think I didn't know what I was doing?" I pout. Wait, no I'm not pouting!

'You are definitely pouting. It's actually adorable.'

"I've seen what you're capable of." I push on, ignoring Cinder's blatantly false allegation. "I've seen how you fight, and I don't think I've ever seen anyone take on as many foes as you did all by yourself. If you really think you're not capable then I don't know what to tell you. I'm not finished!" I snap, pointing a finger at her as she makes to argue. "If you really think I'm biased because of the timer I've spent with you then you're damn right I am!"

Weiss looks genuinely confused. "I don't understand. Your majesty they… they were mere foot-soldiers. Surely you see that there are better choices than me."

I glare at her angrily, this constant depreciation of herself is beginning to irritate me.

"In case you haven't picked up on it Weiss, I don't have the most trust for knights. Rivers and his men were good people, but all I can see when I look at others is a potential enemy. I don't trust them. I trust you." I step forward, inches from her face now and hoping that it works in emphasising my point. "I trusted you enough to sleep next to you, to go out on patrol with you knowing you'd guide me, I trusted you to dress my wounds and defend my life. And each and every time, my trust was proven to be rightly placed. And now I'm trusting you again, not just to protect me, but to watch me."

"W-what?"

"Do you know what a Myrtenaster is? It's a title specifically created by the Rose line hundreds of years ago, dubbing people who had a very specific job throughout each monarch's reign. They stood by their side not just as their sword and shield, but as someone who quelled their mistakes, advised them when they could and taught them what they knew. I need that Weiss. I've practically fallen into this role. I have next to no knowledge on how to rule a kingdom, and eventually I'll need to open doors to others like Atlas. I need some who'll actually speak to me truthfully. I know you will, I trust you to, more than I do some stranger who said a few words at a ceremony and parades around as some bastion of chivalry. You've shown me all of that in less than a week!"

Too angry, far too angry for what's going on. Why am I raising my voice like this?

'You're right though, aren't you? This uncertainty she shows is reprehensible. How can she believe she isn't up to the task after what we've seen of her?"

I can feel it. Cinder's angry too. She… she's… wait…

I shake my head, focusing back on the matter at hand. "It doesn't matter now. You're my knight. You swore it, and in doing so you are bound to obey my orders. I've ordered you to take this position. If that's the only way I'm going to get you to do this, then I'll take it. Think of it as your punishment."

"… Punishment," Weiss laughs dimly. "Being appointed as the queens second is hardly anything of the sort."

My scowl fades. Damn it. She sounds so dulled. What's wrong Weiss? "I guess it's not…. You know what is though?"

"What?"

"Making you think I'm going to punish you in front of the whole court and taking your sword as if I was relinquishing it from you."

Weiss' mouth falls open. "You- you did all of that on purpose?!"

A grin stretches across my face "I did say I was going to get you back for going against my orders earlier didn't I?"

"A-and you thought taking years off my life was the way to go about it!?"

"Yep!"

'It was incredibly funny seeing her panic.'

After a long moment, Weiss sighs. "To think I'm in service of such a cruel queen."

"Heh… you don't seem to upset about it, considering that smile on your face."

"No… I suppose not." The Lieutenant- No, the Knightess smiles. "Thank you Ruby… I really do mean it. I'm… grateful for all you've done for me.

"I…" I pause as a breath of hot air comes down on my neck. She's doing… something, it's as if Cinder's leaning forward inside my head and I feel compelled to do the same. Oh… and I've just realised that…. I haven't pulled away since getting up in Weiss' face. Maybe… maybe I should?

'Or perhaps not.'

Maybe… but… what am I supposed to do then?

I feel the images of Cinder's gaze drift into my head. She's… looking slightly lower than the Weiss' eyes. I can't help but lick my lips.

Why hasn't Weiss pulled away either?

"I…"

"Aw~ Look at you two!"

I nearly jump out of my skin at the third voice, and spin to glare at the offender vehemently.

Yang grins at us, sauntering towards us with her hands linked behind her head.

Weiss it seems particularly vexed by my sister's appearance because she's glaring openly her way. "What are you doing here?" she growls. "And where have you been? The only time I say you before the ceremony was when I was covered in blood!"

Yang blinks suddenly, as if only realising that. "Oh, yeah! Sorry about that. I was with Goodwitch."

I tilt my head. "The whole time?"

"Yep! Me and her have been working things out, arranging living arrangements and stuff. Oh! And she's promised to talk to some smiths about getting me some upgrades!"

"What kind of upgrades?"

She shrugs. "No clue. But hey, I'm not going to turn down free stuff. How often am I going to have people doing things like this for me?"

I shoot her a deadpan look. "All the time Yang. You live here now, remember?"

"Oh… yeah, you're right… huh…"

"What is it?"

"I dunno I'm just thinking… what do we do now then? I mean. You're queen so…"

I know what she means. Having a crown on my head was a start, but just sitting around wasn't exactly… well it wasn't what I have planned.

The image of a blood-red sky and eyes the same are clear in my head.

I feel Cinder shiver

I can't afford it. I have things I need to do. Things I need to plan.

I have a feeling things aren't even close to being over.

Not by a long shot.

"Right now, nothing." Weiss says, seeing my expression and resting a hand on my shoulder. "For now, I think it best you rest."

Yang rolls her eyes, and I feel Cinder do the same.

…still weird.

"Are you her granny now Snow angel?"

"I'm her bodyguard." Weiss responds, and I can see the subtle way she puffs out her chest in pride. "I must do everything I can live up to the expectations upon me now as… as the Myrtenaster."

"Aw~" Yang coos, and Weiss shrieks as my sister practically throws herself forward wrapping a bare arm around Weiss' neck. "Look at you acting all serious. It's so cute!"

"I-I am not cute!" Weiss growls indignantly, though the bright red flush on her face retracted from it significantly. "I'm serious! I'm always serious!"

"Totally adorable," Yang grins widely. "You're cure when you're flustered."

"I will end you!"

"Oooh~ Feisty, I like that."

"What is wrong with you today?!"

"What? I'm in a good mood."

"If this is a good mood for you I'll make sure to avoid it."

"You sure about that?" Yang asks with a raised eyebrow. "Tut, tut. That's a little bit naughty don't you think? Talking to a princess like that?"

I stare, but Weiss freezes completely. "What are you talking about?"

The smirk on Yang's face is positively pompous. "Well since Ruby's the Queen now, I've been hashing out some details with Goodwitch and what would you know, turns out that as Rubes' loving sister, I get the title of princess."

She leans in so that her lips are right next to Weiss' ear. "Guess that means you'll need to protect me too. I'm sooo~ grateful that you're willing to offer your body to me like that."

I don't miss the double entendre, and have to suppress a sigh. Honestly, Yang should know not to do that. Just look at her; Weiss is redder than I've ever seen her. She's clearly making her uncomfortable.

'Although that is an interesting development. Yang is a princess now. Interesting.'

Oh, yeah, right, that's a thing now… ugh, how many more people am I going to have to beat away from her now?

'To be fair, they'll be labelled as 'suitors' now.'

"N-no way!" Weiss squeaks diminutively in the meantime, shaking free from Yang's hold and slashing her arms through the air in a cross-motion. "Not a chance, absolutely not! There's no way I could- I wouldn't be able to-"

"Don't worry Weiss, we have lots of time to get to know each other. I mean, when you're not with Ruby you'll be with me. And I plan to take full advantage of my new gig. I think I heard that there's a royal bath somewhere around here. You might need to join me so that I'm extra safe, watch my back, or if you like, my front."

I can tell Yang is really pushing it now, because Weiss's breath comes out in strangled gasps.

'Is… she frothing?'

"That's enough Yang," I sigh. "Stop torturing her already."

"Aw come on Rubes," Yang laughs. "I think she's enjoying it."

What?

"D-don't be ridiculous!" Weiss squawks. "I'm not some the kind who would fall for such tactics!"

"So you're saying you could fall though?"

"ARGH!"

I groan tiredly. "What are you two even talking about you? I swear I've completely lost track of this conversation.

My sister snickers. "Don't worry about it Ruby, you'll figure it out eventually. By then things should be handled."

"They will not!"

"If you say so Snow Angel."

I roll my eyes. "Fine, keep your secrets. I'm tired, I'm going to bed. Weiss, your room is the next one over I think, you already know where yours is right Yang?"

"Yep!"

"Good," I turn, raising a hand back at them and waving. "Then I'm going. If I sleep for a week don't worry too much."

"You got it, g'night Rubes."

I leave, my footsteps echoing down the hall as I turn the corner.

And right as I do, I hear Yang's parting words.

"Oh~ and you're staring that way too. I didn't know you had it in ya' Weissy. Good to know you have an interest in both. Hey, if you want, I can show you mine~"

"I will end you Xiao-Long!"

'You know,' Cinder muses. 'I know she's not serious, but is Yang keeps pushing it then one of these days Weiss might snap.'

Yeah.

I sigh. I'm worried about that too. All it'll take is Yang going too far and Weiss getting too mad to handle it. I'm worried about what might happen then.

'That's… not what I meant'

I blink. Huh? What are you talking about?

'I… nothing,' Cinder sighs. 'I think I've realised that despite our shared mind, I'm slightly more mature than you in at least one aspect… however that works.'

What does that even mean?

'Don't worry about it Ruby… I'm sure you'll find out eventually.'

...

...

Well. That was fun right? Ruby's finally got what she's looking for… or, at least Opzin has in a way, and hey! Weiss got a reward for her efforts. I wonder how all those uptight nobles are going to react in the future? To this, or whatever else Ruby comes up with.

We don't know much about Cinder at the moment, but it sounds like neither does she.

Is she telling the truth? Can she be trusted? Who knows?

I'd stick around for more, maybe go on a little bit of a longer spiel but I'm just back from a week-long trip, this is the first time I've been in my house since and I'm exhausted, (I hope it doesn't show above) so I'll throw out an easier question this time.

Which character would you have as your partner if you had to pick? And why? It can be anyone, hero or villain. (Though, maybe not Salem, Ozpin or the gods for obvious reasons.) Would it be for personality? Teamwork potential? Practicality? Or… Friendship™?