As a reminder I put notes and questions for my readers following most chapters. Please ensure you check out the AN's at the end of the chapter.
2.26
Snowing. It was snowing. It was snowing in spring. Why was it always snowing in spring? Sure it was the mountains… and sure it was Cadia but why did it always snow no matter where she visited!?
It had been weeks from the last time Glynda Goodwitch spoke to her former instructor or her children privately. To the point that now they had a few days off in a mini vacation allowing her to visit Cadia to check on her friend.
Deborah did not underestimate the view, gorgeous was indeed the first word that came to mind. Even from miles away the vast sprawling structure that is Remnants most northern city impressed and only grew more so the closer the flight came. She had never visited the city previously. Following her own studies to become a Huntress and then into her career as a teacher she never had the opportunity to visit. She felt a touch out of place given the surroundings.
Jaune had warned her to wear 2 coats and bundle up. She thought the kind young man was kidding. Surely in spring a single coat would manage?
It didn't. It clearly didn't.
Her plane landed on the upper most landing pad and the first stream of icy wind hitting her almost made her want to go back into the plane and forget the entire thing.
The most irritating part of it all was she was bundled preparing for an arctic freeze and the people waiting for her was dressed in a sweatshirt seemingly oblivious or just made of thicker skin than the small blond woman was.
That was the first thing she noticed after the beauty the city carried and the awesome views that came with being on a mountaintop.
The second, was that security was 'Everywhere'. Armed guards patrolled every street. Guards were stationed on every corner and walkway of note not only in protective gear but with both ranged and melee weapons. Each and every single one of them looked more than capable of using them. Inspection locations were present at multiple junctures in some cases they got quite personal. She had to wonder if all this was necessary just to gain access to the home of the Arcs.
The visit to Cadia to see Eve was a part of why she was here. Another part was that Deb sent for either her or the Headmaster… personally. Ozpin was of course too busy, Glynda could have declined. She could have sent a subordinate from school, or even sent a team of 4th years to offer their services while on assignment. She didn't.
Deborah had the place on lockdown, and the security did not go away once they got inside the much warmer mountain halls that served as their home.
Arriving in the room after being escorted through the very impressive and massive house Glynda saw her mentor again. It made her feel a touch envious every time she did. Glynda she knew, was considered an attractive woman. But she also looked as old as she actually was, that combined with the stress of teaching occasionally made people guess her to be slightly older than her actual age.
Deborah was still breathtaking for the Professor. Deb was nearly 70, but looked better, stronger and in better shape then she herself did. She didn't and never dressed as… teasingly or openly as some of her children did, but the woman still was pretty by any standard.
It was easy to see how the Arc's have held on to power for so long given their semblance and how long it allows them and those near them to live. The combined experience and wisdom they would have amassed would be astounding. Deborah could probably outperform the vast majority of the students in training at Beacon in the gym or exercises they do to keep in shape without the need of her semblance. It made her wonder how well Eve had aged… on well that will become known when it does.
"Thank you for coming Glynda, it is a relief to see you." Deborah stated hugging the smaller and still mostly cold woman.
"You are freezing do you need me to send for another coat?" She asked noticing the obvious.
Glynda was still partially shivering but her pride didn't allow her to say yes.
"I am fine for now but I might take you up on that for the return trip." She answered with a smile.
"I would ask if all this security is needed but I guess after seeing those pictures I cannot begrudge you for being careful." The professor observed.
Deb smiled sadly "Yes… it was hard seeing my home go through that. How have the kids handled it at school?" She asked.
Glynda gave a rare warm smile. "Well… I suppose I could tell you much. Patricia and Lissette have done a complete turnaround. They are helping other students and seem prepared to prove their intentions with deeds not just words. Arc's have never been unable to change or adapt in my experience… that holds true with them as well." She took a breath before continuing.
"Lissette… she has really tried to turn over a new leaf I have to say I am impressed with her efforts. She… is still abrasive but what happened really seemed to take a great deal of anger out of her. I suspect it will be awhile until she is more rounded but she is trying. Patricia is of course a large part of her turnaround. Both sisters help each other… it's a welcome sight from the walking ticking time bomb they were in the first term. I… still cannot claim to understand how their connection is so strong but… well I do not deny that it exists and is helping them cope." She concluded flatly, overall pleased with the situation.
Deb smiled right back looking pleased "Good. How about my youngest?"
Glynda sat down next to Deb before answering feeling a touch warmer, she needed to think of the best way to voice her answer.
"Deb… Mrs. Arc. I would struggle to answer in a way that does them justice. Jaune has gone from being somebody who I was almost embarrassed to instruct his first year… to an elite fighter not just in his year but the school meshing in perfectly with his teammates. He seems physically stronger, faster and a better fighter every week. Every time he competes he does better than the previous time. It is becoming a weekly endeavor for another girl to be found flirting with him, Pyrrha has broken more coffee mugs in a week than Ozpin has in his career."
Deb chuckled happily and nodded for Glynda to continue.
"Katherine… I mean she has just about every male enthralled wherever she goes not to mention a good portion of the girls as well. But that girl is worthy of the highest praise I can give as well. She causes me more headaches than her twin but she is also an elite fighter in the school. They both study and work more than any other student I can name." Glynda looked totally serious yet it was obvious she was practically bursting with pride too.
"They are acclimatizing well then?" Deb asked.
"More than that. Jaune's presence just makes everybody stronger but you already knew that it is a part of his semblance of course." Glynda responded.
"You think he is close to earning his knighthood then?" Deb asked curiously if happy.
"I would have thought it impossible at the start of the year, but yes. I think he will earn it soon. Katherine seems to be more hesitant to grow with her semblance but she is trying. I suspect Jaune succeeding will encourage her to open herself up too. It is only a matter of time until all 9 of them are seen working and practicing as much as the two of them plus his partner do. Reminds you of somebody doesn't it?" She smiled warming if knowingly at the older woman.
"Of course it would… Robert and I." Deb smiled sadly remember her own time at Beacon with her brother and their corresponding teams.
Glynda nodded but did not press the matter, knowing enough about her friend that her brother is a sore topic.
"How is my partner doing?" Glynda asked becoming focused in her face.
Deb grew serious, and thought for a few moments before bringing up a piece of cloth and setting it on the table. Glynda moved to open it and observe the contents while Deb answered.
"She is doing well… and it concerns why I asked you to come here."
She took a deep breath.
"Glynda… As far as I knew my husband was never trained in combat. He never had his aura unlocked and had no knowledge of his semblance. I know that now to be a lie. How he fooled me all these years I do not know. But his semblance has to be some type of mind control. After Eve was brought to the Medical Wing my medical staff found that on her. I found another individuals aura inside it… and made the logical guess that it is his." She settled into her chair but brought both of her arms over her chest.
"This is how he channels his semblance?" Glynda asked, that is probably how he got Eve to sign the disownment agreement now that she thought about it.
"I think so, but that isn't it. Once I found it I had the security staff do a full sweep of the castle. I had military intelligence do a follow up sweep and a third party check both of them. I am fairly confident we have found them all but I cannot be sure, however littering this house was a multitude of objects which had his aura merged into it. I suspect it slowly makes people agree to his way of thinking and when he focuses he could control that person's mind. It might be why he was so successful as a politician. I do not know. But I need this studied. I need a way to combat it and I need it soon. That is why I asked you to come here. I cannot pretend to know the mind of that man but I firmly believe he has further plans." The Matriarch took a drink after speaking to let Glynda think.
"You have your own people on it too I assume?" She asked after a few seconds.
"Yes, but I feel two studies should be done. We have equipment set up to detect subtle aura uses around the castle now but I called you here to pick this up personally." The stated quietly.
Glynda picked up the medallion after rewrapping it in cloth.
"I will take it and see it carried out… about Evangeline?" She repeated.
Deb sighed relieved before answering.
"She is recovering well. As you know she has the traditional Arc Semblance so she heals quickly, even so… the… wound she suffered was severe." Deborah stated sadly.
"Don't blame yourself it isn't your fault." The younger woman insisted empathetically.
Deb shook her head.
"I do not blame myself, I blame that Bastard of a Husband of mine." Here, she looked furious in her eyes, but her face remained friendly.
Glynda nodded, but felt the need to ask.
"Why didn't her aura shield her though I wonder? She might not have as much as your Twins or yourself but she still had many times that of a normal person. Why didn't her aura protect her?" Glynda asked curiously.
Deb huffed "That, I can only guess at. Every person I encountered that night acted as if they did not have their aura unlocked. For some of them I know that to be inaccurate. I suspect that when his mind control fades from that person, their aura's ability to shield them is temporarily disabled. I have no proof to back it up but that is how I rationalize that particular mystery."
"Beyond her injury though?" Glynda asked persistent.
Deb smiled weakly "She is moving around more. Her and Miyas are walking around a bit every day but they still stay in the medical wing. They convinced me to unlock Miyas' aura and ensure she gets some type of self defense instruction once she is fully recovered. Unless I miss my guess Eve is doing that for her already when nobody is looking. Sitting still always drove my family crazy, that of course includes her." She took another sip of drink as Glynda took in the information.
"Have you decided to heal Miyas' scars?" She asked cautiously.
Debs smile faltered and went dark…
"That… is up to the triplets. They will need to feel the injury again and they have already suffered more than anybody should have. If they ask me too I will do it. Eve already brought up the subject to me not last week. She couldn't believe her eyes either." The Matriarch still had a great deal of emotion in her being on the topic, her hand cupped her chin resting an elbow on the table for support.
"I'd like to see her before I leave tonight." She requested. She was not in a hurry to leave… but she wanted to spend time with her friend before her return flight in a few hours.
Deborah seemed to read her friend and former student as she made to answer in a somewhat forced smile getting the previous topic out of her mind.
"Of course. I cannot escort you as I am sure the instant I leave the room somebody else will flag me down but I can have Oscar or somebody else take you to the medical wing." She stated as she stood and began to make her way to the door.
Her prediction proved true.
Oscar showed himself to be a quiet soul and he didn't say much. He gave Glynda a friendly smile and offered a refill of liquids to drink. Glynda probably would have called it coffee but she was assured it wasn't just coffee, some concoction of materials the locals sold and made available to visitors… supposedly it helped them stay warm.
After drinking a sip, it seemed to have that effect.
Oscar arrived at a door and with a nod advised Glynda to head down to the medical wing.
She thanked him, and proceeded down the stairwell to the medical facility.
Glynda found herself slightly in awe of what she was seeing as she moved around the home. Despite the fact that Arc's were known for their generosity, Glynda was beginning to understand a few things about their renown. They kept some of the finest equipment and technology in existence in their home. She knew from her time with Eve previously that the armor crafters and weapon smiths of Cadia, especially those who worked inside the castle itself were some of if not the best in their respective fields. Given access to the top tier equipment, materials and machinery to perform their tasks. The same could be said of the medical facility she learned, making Beacons own offerings seem backwater and dated in comparison.
She was unsure what to expect as she neared the door at the base of the steps. She knew that both of the Arc were gravely wounded, and according to Deb they were already somewhat mobile. She still did not expect the sight she found to be the one that greeted her.
Evangeline was standing as was another smaller blond girl. She was shirtless but wearing a heavily wrapped bandage on her torso… Eve always did what she wanted and not care about remaining decent at all times…. sigh. None the less, she was on her feet and trying to give an attractive blond girl pointers in hand to hand combat… Miyas she assumed. Her friend, bandages aside looked to be in fantastic shape. Eve had a wonderfully athletic and toned body… she always was physically strong… not overwhelmingly so but it was frighteningly difficult to overwhelm her physically. Yet another thing most Arcs had in common.
Glynda couldn't say that they were sparing… that wouldn't be accurate, but showing proper form and technique absolutely was in line what the lesson.
She stood slightly out of sight on the other end of the door but peered through the central window to observe the two interact.
"Miyas, you are recovering same as me I think you should take a break." Evangeline stated appearing a touch tired. She looked like a girl of 18 years old… no older than the triplets at Beacon.
Glynda was somewhat annoyed at that discovery.
Miyas for her part looked absolutely exhausted. Her body was drenched in sweat with her clothing utterly soaked through. Her body moved sluggish and her legs shook from exhaustion as she struggled to keep standing. The professor smiled… Arcs almost never were credited with working this hard… but they did almost to an individual.
The girl was small… even smaller in stature than Katherine was. She stood around 5'8 as did her birth siblings but… it was somewhat obvious looking at her why James singled her out. She was easily physically the weakest of the group. Not to say that she didn't look healthy or out of shape, the girl just was tiny.
"Eve… I just learned that Jaune was able to go to Beacon with a GRIMM in his chest. I can handle some deep breaths and fatigue." She stated stubbornly with her hands on her knees breathing in deep gasps.
Glynda smiled once again… Arc's will be Arc's… spirited and proud people. They had the reputation of being some of the best warriors ever to exist. Glynda knew first hand that while they were born with more talent than most anybody else… they also tended to work harder than everybody else as well.
"Fine… if you want to keep going suit yourself… but me, I need to sit down." She walked back to her bed to sit on it.
The wounds Eve took would have killed almost anybody else to mind and if Deb didn't put over an hour into healing her daughters both of them probably would have died that day.
"Besides it seems we have a visitor." The older Arc stated tiredly with a smile.
Glynda smiled and opened the door.
"It is good to see you Glyn, this is my sister Miyas." Eve stated simply.
"Glynda Goodwitch?" Miyas guessed still utterly breathless.
"Quite so, nice to meet you." She responded.
They shook hands, the girl despite her appearance gave a firm handshake.
Glynda was unsure what she wanted to say to the younger Arc in the room, to buy time she moved over to her friend.
"Eve… are you ok?" She asked, now that she got a closer look she was even more concerned. Eve was moving around well but it was obvious she was in pain.
"I am ok… fine enough to greet my friend appropriately." She smiled and stood.
The two of them hugged for a long while, neither cared about the her state of dress.
"You had me worried when you went silent for so long Eve… That and when Jaune was disowned I knew something happened to you." The professor stated.
Eve frowned "I… I do not remember much about that… but mom and I spoke about it. I… should never have trusted father. I should not have… accepted that medallion." She looked away.
Glynda was about to speak… Miyas beat her too it.
"Eve if you say that one more time I swear I will slap you. It was dad, always it was him. Nobody can blame you for trying to trust your father." She was still breathing hard but managed to stand up straight finally appearing more than a touch angry over the situation.
For whatever traits Miyas had… determined most definitely was one of them.
"What happened Eve? What medallion?" Glynda asked still in the hug, the teacher made the logical assumption the medallion is the trinket Deborah just gave her. Despite the topic, Glynda already did enjoy hugging her friend, missed hugging her partner.
Evangeline signed… and repositioned herself in the hug before responding.
"Dad said he was sorry for how he treated Jaune and Kate. He gave me that and said it was a symbol of his word to be kinder to them. I felt… I had to accept it. If I knew then what I know now…" Eve was a softer person than her siblings, Glynda knew that already. It was easier for her to cry, she was similar to Jaune in that manner. Neither liked crying, but they both did. It seems Eve couldn't help but shed a few tears at this point.
Glynda did not realize it… but it seems she started to hug a touch too tight.
"Glyn… I need you to ease up a bit… I'm still a touch sore and tender." She claimed with a humored but pained smile.
Glynda immediately backed away after letting go.
"Sorry." She advised appearing concerned.
Miyas had just about recovered her breath and went to get a drink of water.
"You were going to rest a bit?" Glynda asked.
Eve nodded. "Yes… My wound was… much worse than… I guess what I did to Miyas. I'm… taking a bit longer to get well." She admitted sadly, possibly even feeling ashamed for her involvement in the situation.
"Eve don't be ridiculous, you are lucky to be alive it's a miracle given your wound." The teacher claimed.
Eve just sat down suddenly appearing very tired and eventually laid down. Given the severity of her wound her Aura had to be working overtime to have gotten her as well off as she is now.
"I suppose… doesn't mean I do not blame myself for what happened." She claimed closing her eyes.
Glynda just scowled… nothing she could say would change her mind on that.
Miyas cleared her throat behind them.
"Ahem… If you are going to take a break I guess I will be doing the next round alone." She stated appearing determined.
Glynda looked at the younger sibling, she would probably have turned out to be a fine hunter. She might be physically weaker than her siblings… but she had the spirit to be a hunter just as her siblings did.
"You could… Unless. Glynda do you want to give my eager sibling here a taste of Beacon hand to hand training?" Evangeline stated with a sly grin.
"It has been some time… But I think I can help set her on the right path." She admitted smiling as she removed her cape and set her wand aside.
It was a nice evening for the 3 of them she decided. Miyas like every other Arc to ever live, learned fast. She might have exercised to keep in shape. But she was not a trained fighter at all. It was like starting over with Jaune the previous year. Glynda didn't mind. She might have judged Jaune too harshly at the start, she would not make the same mistake with Miyas. Miyas might never be a hunter like her siblings, but she seemed determined to learn to defend herself. Before she left Glynda said her goodbyes to both of her friends and welcome another warm coat before another long flight back to Beacon. Determined to help these people who gave so much to remnant and asked so little in return.
***BEACON GROUNDS***
Kate had just dropped off a … surprise for some of her friends before she moved to the commons room. Her robe had taken some grazes in combat class and she wanted to see if she could repair it.
It was after their afternoon exercise. Thus far both She and Jaune had gone undefeated in their combat class in the term. Something which was mindboggling to some of the other students. Many were not easy and some were even close. But they had yet to register a loss, due to their own ability and of course the advantage of their abnormal reserves of aura. Something which absolutely caused her to smile. Granted the only time anybody from RWBY or JNPR tended to get beaten is when they faced each other. Nobody really seemed to know how to handle her semblance or fighting style well and Jaune was just overpowering people with his now that he has complete control over it. It was only a matter of time until they started to meet each other in class and that is when we will truly see where things lay, but for now just about everybody was happy with where they were at.
What she did not expect… was for her sisters at school too really appear genuine in their attempts to change. They helped other students, they worked with them. They joined in with other students in their exercises… She always felt as though something was off with the talk they had with the group. Now, she might have to admit it was her own feelings that were confused. Anger was always an easier emotion for her to feel than her twin. She let herself get angry if for no other reason it was hard for him to feel the emotion. None the less… both of them seemed to take what they learned to heart and break off the path that James Masters set them on.
In other news, she and Ren had spoken... finally. She ended up approaching him and speaking to him over the course of the term. They cleared the air, but that is about all she could say came out of the conversation. She might be ready to try to commit to a relationship… but Ren it seems was not yet.
She … maybe they both were less than happy about that. She felt an obvious chemistry with the stoic young man, but if it isn't time don't force it. Something she learned as she was taught archery.
But hey, she had made a friend with somebody who obviously found her attractive yet respected her enough to treat her as a human being. Very few people have been willing to do that with her.
None the less, she quieted her mind and focused in on her task. It was a day off, she had some free time to burn. Pyrrha and Jaune allowed her to get the first shower, then they might be trying to spend some time together.
"Hey" A voice declared startling her.
She looked towards it to see Ren nearby. She smiled, Ren might not be silent when he moves like herself but he can get close.
"Hey" She replied neutrally.
He pointed to her Robe briefly.
"Does the image of your Robe mean something?" He asked.
"Yes, It is something that is of an ancient design actually." She admitted as she went back to focusing on her work.
Ren sat next to her and observed the detailing.
"It is gorgeous. I've never seen it up close like this before." He said simply, his mouth moved like he wanted to say more, but couldn't bring himself to do it.
"Nice of you to say." She replied coolly not looking at him to notice his movements.
"So?" He asked.
"Hmm? Oh its meaning?" She asked feeling silly.
He mumbled a quick "Mhmm."
"The detailing is gorgeous but… I feel like it tells a story I cannot read." He confessed looking serious.
She smiled to herself before answering and finally turned to him.
"It means 'Visible Shadows'. My Uncle wore a similar Robe when he fought, my mother ordered this one for me." She claimed simply as she repaired some light damage to the cloth.
Ren had to think before responding.
"Visible Shadows? What is that trying to say it seems contradictory?" He clearly looked intrigued.
She smiled again.
"It references the story of the Arc's origin: The Darkest Days of Humanity. The Arcs were the ones credited with leading us in that time of need. Most people do not remember how many Arc's fell in their efforts, yet at least history remembers their sacrifice. Yet history often forgets that the Assassin side of the family fought just as hard and lost just as many. More really as most people at home believed the line died out in those battles. Only their children carried on the skills and semblance of the original line. This design tells people that despite their origins and tending to fight isolated battles or ambushes at range… there is a time to close ranks with everybody else. To fight shoulder to shoulder with each other despite being different, to fight in the sun. That is what this design reflects, the time has come to stand your ground and fight." She orated cheerfully with a friendly smile.
"I guess that fits when you wear it. It is time to fight and be seen." He agreed nodding.
She nodded but tried to focus on her work again, it was not easy given her company. Normally she worked on these things alone.
He finally seemed to work up the nerve to speak.
"Kate… about before…" He sounded nervous.
She looked at him.
He seemed to run out of words.
"If this is about Jaune being my brother believe me, neither of us care." She claimed quietly picking up the conversation.
"It isn't that…" He started.
His scroll beeped.
"Saved by the ring?" She said playfully.
He scoffed and looked at his scroll.
"It's a text from Nora, she needs me to meet her in the main courtyard." He claimed simply standing up to leave.
She looked sad, but went back to work.
He took a step, two… three… then stopped.
He slowly turned back.
"Katherine."
She looked at him again.
"Kate… my caution around you, it is meant at a sign of respect. Were it just my mind, I would have already asked you out." He appeared a touch nervous.
She smiled a smidgeon sadly but nodded.
"On Winter Break before the snowball ambush… you were listening in on Jaune and I, he kept looking to his side like somebody was next to him… that was because somebody literally was… right?" He asked appearing certain.
Huh… He really does pay attention.
"Yes… I heard everything." She admitted quietly.
He took a deep breath.
"Kate… I think of Jaune as a brother. That… is not why I am cautious. Your appearance does not intimidate me either. I know you are more than how you appear." He said.
Kate put down the robe and gave him her full attention.
"Ren, what is on your mind?" She asked.
He took another deep breath "I know almost nothing of my home or its customs. Yet… I know a couple traditions of my people. My father did not tell me much before we said goodbye and I had to try and escape... but he did tell me a few things he wished me remember. They are literally the only things I have left of my family or people I remember. I… need to do certain things before I can proceed in any fashion with you."
This obviously was not the easiest thing for him to talk about.
"Things like what?" She asked seriously.
"Things that I need to have my mind sure on. I… Cannot talk to you about them as you can influence my feelings according to custom. It is a very old fashioned belief I grant you that… but it is all of my family I have left. I have to ensure my mind is sure and… do things beyond that. Just know that my caution regarding you is a sign of respect. Ok?" He looked almost like his typical stoic self… but he couldn't keep his conflict out of his eyes.
He received a nod from Katherine, then went to get his coat and moved towards Nora.
She could have said take your time, but she didn't want him to. She could have insisted he tell her what it was he needed to do out of that never ending curiosity she has… but didn't. Dating was out of her comfort zone no matter how much she is trying with Ren.
Kate sighed, and was surprised a second time that day after another bit of time spent repairing the robe. She liked Ren. She realized she always liked him. It was somewhat frustrating for her. Normally she would see somebody she wanted… and go get him or her. With Ren… something in her is telling her to be patient. It was an alien feeling for her, something that was not natural.
Mom had encouraged her to try and find one person and build a stronger relationship. After seeing what Jaune and Pyrrha mean to each other… she was more willing to take that advise beyond just face value. Somehow mom giving her that lecture with the experience she has had with James… she always discounted it. Now… she was more open to the idea, no matter how anxious she was about it at times.
She had just folded it and determined she was done before Blake made herself known.
"He likes you, you have to know that." She said as she settled into another chair nearby.
Kate was startled as she turned towards the voice. "Seems today is the day for sneaking up on me. I'm not used to that." She claimed in good humor.
Blake smiled "I have been practicing being quiet I guess. You should know…" She looked away suddenly nervous.
Kate looked at her cheerfully for her to continue.
Blake took a deep breath "Kate… Ren. You know he just likes being sure of himself in his decision before he commits to anything?" The cautious girl claimed softly.
Kate smiled "Are you trying to get us together or something?"
Blake smiled again "A few things about that. First, you know we both are done with the newest Ninja's of Love book so I am already primed for romance. Thanks again for having 2 copies delivered by the way. Second, I am a quiet person. I have had a long time to think to myself."
"Ok… what is on your mind?" She asked intrigued.
"Kate… I spent most of my life distrusting humans. To, not let them get close to me. But… Beacon has changed me." Blake moved to rest her arms on her knees as she spoke.
"Go on…" Kate prodded, really not sure where Blake was trying to go with this.
"Katherine. I came to Beacon to get stronger. I … did not want to have to rely on anybody in my life. Yet, I've seen how much Jaune has grown. Sure Pyrrha brought it out of him but if he wasn't willing, he wouldn't have grown near as much. I've seen firsthand how connections can help you improve beyond what an individual could do alone. Your brother… it took a full year, but he earned my respect though his actions. I guess the same applies to you now. Without his influence I would be the same unhappy and solitary girl I was before, if I can help his sister I will."
One of the two golden's in the room walked up to Blake… who actually returned their attentions by petting their ears.
Kate could not help but think this was strange for Blake to do, there has to be an ulterior motive… sure maybe she wants to help but there has to be something beyond that.
She continued to wear a somewhat confused look on her face long after Blake continued to speak again.
"I mention this. Because, I guess I am trying to cheer you up. It took a year for Pyrrha and Jaune to see eye to eye. Jaune was oblivious and even ignored her for the most part… maybe he was confused but he came around in the end. If you ask them it was worth it. So… just keep your chin up ok? Somehow I doubt it will take you and Ren that long to do the same. It if it meant to happen, it will happen." She advised.
Kate smiled warmly, she appreciated the thought… though she was also still suspicious.
"BLLLAAAAKKE! HURRY UP I'M WAITING!" A voice bellowed from down below.
"Yang has been waiting for you this entire time?" She asked amused.
Blake smiled again as she stood "Well… yeah, I saw you and Ren speaking and I couldn't help but listen in. Also…." She hesitated but appeared hungry.
Finally Kate thought she got it. "You want me to cook the last of the fish you caught the other day for dinner, right?"
Blake nodded furiously if hilariously quick "Yes Yes Yes very much yes I want you to cook the last of the fish tonight."
Katherine laughed "Ok… Thanks for cheering me up."
She figured the Cat girl would go somehow merge fish with cheering her intentions for the evening. None the less Katherine smiled. Blake meant well… and besides fish tonight sounds wonderful. It was now on her to put her feet up and try to catch a lazy afternoon nap. Her twin senses were tingling at the moment and she didn't want to intrude, she could ask Jaune about it during their evening workout.
***JNPR DORM***
Pyrrha decided to let Jaune take the first shower, she was also tempted to jump in with him. She didn't, but was tempted too. She had known him nearly 2 years at this point and was starting to feel ready to move forwards in line with her homelands customs. None the less, she enjoyed the mental image while she waited her turn.
Kate had been kind enough to buy more specialized workout gear for her. Pyrrha ended up liking that one pair of leggings that when she had the opportunity to obtain more, she took it. Now she knew exactly why Kate worn them all the time and it wasn't just because she looked good in them. They were astonishingly comfortable to move and work in.
Once he was out she of course took her turn hoping to be quick so she and her boyfriend could spend some time together. They had continued their 3 a day schedule and it was starting to show. None the less she was starting to understand the reputation Arc's had.
Kate and Jaune had the reputation of being incredibly hard workers. Well, Lissette and Patricia could also be given some credit. That day weeks ago when the truth was revealed had long passed. It was something she could not smile at in regards to the memory, but they had kept their word. Both of the twins had said multiple times that an Arc is bound by their word… despite the very rocky start to the year, their older siblings are proving that true in their own way.
She quickly emerged from the shower dressed in a pair of those leggings and a shirt unsure what Jaune would be doing. Well… turns out he wanted to lay down a bit.
"Are you sleeping?" She asked quietly… not loud enough to wake him if he was sleeping.
"No… I… I was thinking." He admitted.
She walked a touch playfully towards him and sat down on his bed.
"About what?" She queried.
He stirred somewhat and nearly put a hand on her thigh… but thought against it. Then again maybe he didn't know he came that close his eyes were closed after all.
"About… Cadia… my sisters… my….. father." He stated as if conflicted.
She contemplated for a moment before continuing.
"Jaune, what is bothering you?" She put forth warmly with an unseen smile.
He took another deep breath and tried to keep his thoughts clear.
"I… I try to do right. It just never seems like enough. If I didn't accept the title, would all of those people have died? Are their deaths on me? I-"
She interrupted him by kissing him briefly.
"Hey-" She interrupted him again with another kiss.
"Jaune-"
She kissed him again.
"-those actions, those deaths are the work of a sadistic creature. I cannot even call him a man. You are a man and you try to be one of honor, duty and purpose. I will continue you kiss you in interruption every time you speak if you continue to think of yourself as responsible for them. Ok?" She kissed him once again, this time more in line with how their affection normally goes. Deep long and passionate, utterly taking his breath away.
It was several minutes later when she ended the kiss briefly resting her forehead against his before pulling back to a sitting position once again.
"Understand?" She stated lovingly, purpose burning in her eyes. Jaune takes responsibility for much, she would NOT under ANY circumstances let him feel responsible for the actions of his father.
He smiled slightly and grumbled an affirmative sound before taking a deep breath.
Jaune finally opened his eyes and sat up. He moved his right hand touched her cheek affectionately for a moment before he put his hand back down on his lap.
"Sorry… every time I see you … never mind." he stopped his thought.
"Go on." She stated playfully.
"It is off topic but… you always just take my breath away. It is silly I know." He admitted sheepishly.
She smiled warmly and crawled on the bed forward slightly gracefully. She spun around and put her back against his chest before anybody spoke again.
He made a slight coughing sound which confused her briefly.
"Sorry… your hair tickled my nose." He admitted wrapping her in his arms after repositioning her pony tail.
She chuckled…. then laughed softly to herself. He could be so adorable at times.
For a long time neither of them spoke. She always enjoyed being held against him. Normally she preferred to be laying on his chest but this was nice for her too.
"Hey Jaune… would you mind drawing me a picture?" She asked curiously.
She temporarily moved off him to get his book and pencil before returning to the same spot before.
Jaune chuckled… no point in saying no now even if he wanted too.
"Sure… what am I drawing for you?" He asked as she settled in. It might be somewhat challenging to see the book from her shoulder but he thought he could manage.
She had to think for several seconds and just leaned back trying to sink into him as much as she could.
"Draw me… a picture of your home. I don't mean Beacon, I know you consider Beacon your home. I mean… Cadia. Both you and Kate speak of it yet I have never seen it.
Jaune did something she really wished he did more often. He kissed her neck, It nearly made her forget what she just asked him to do.
"Sure…" He stated, Pyrrha could almost feel the smirk on his face. He knew how much she loved her neck being kissed…. that had to be deliberate.
He started with an utterly massive mountain range in the background with a setting sun falling behind it. The upper portions of the mountain took the form of an expertly crafted semi castle in appearance, yet it was literally built into the mountain itself….
He hesitated. Then put the book and pencil down on his bed.
"Jaune… something wrong?" She asked.
He hesitated once again… then took a deep breath.
"Pyrrha, I have something I need to tell you." He claimed.
She was… kind of alarmed by his change of discussion, but let it go.
"What I want to tell you… is not a pleasant memory for me. But… I feel the time has come to tell you. I would ask that you not interrupt me… ok?" He asked bringing his arms around her in a hug again.
She did not even need to think. She just moved her arms over his and replied back "Of course."
"Pyrrha… you know how I feel about you, and… I think I know how you feel about me." He paused and took another breath.
She nodded but did not speak.
"I… am aware of what your tiara means. I cannot claim to be aware of all its customs, but I know what it means for a girl of Mistral to wear one. Kate accidently informed me earlier." He took another breath.
Her eyes narrowed and it was hard not to break her work to let him speak. She managed however and just wove her fingers into his on either side of her.
"You… are saving yourself. That is a wonderful thing. I am honored beyond words you would even consider me for that. That is partially why I am so cautious around you… I do not want to pressure you into something before you are ready. That… and you know I've never really thought I deserved you."
She opened her mouth to speak, but didn't say anything figured he had more to say.
"Part of why, is that I cannot give you the same thing." He claimed sounding very sad.
Here she had to speak up "What do you mean?" She kept her voice positive but curious.
"You are saving yourself for someone… I already had my first time." He put forth, it was obvious from his tone he was not proud of it.
She leaned back and off to the side slightly so she could turn her head and look at him as he continued to speak.
He had obvious emotion on his face as he continued "I… Know that must surprise you… and… if you want to let each other go-"
She interrupted him with a very forceful and passionate kiss.
Their hands remained locked around each others throughout the kiss. When they broke it off she voiced with nothing but love in her voice.
"Jaune, It does not matter to me that you had your first time. That you bring it up just makes me love you more. Please don't think like that any longer." Her eyes both blazed and sparkled at him as she instructed.
He took a deep breath relieved. "I… just feel bad. You are giving me so much and I cannot give it back to you."
She smiled again and felt her heart flutter. "If it means this much to you, you can tell me about it. About her." She suggested.
He frowned sadly, but kissed her briefly before speaking. "Her name was Melody. She was a visiting noble girl in my family home. She… well she was older than I Am. It started out innocently enough. But it grew very quickly and I found myself overwhelmed." He said never looking away from her.
She nodded and said "Go on."
"I thought she cared for me. She was literally the first girl… maybe person aside from Katherine, Evangeline or Mom to treat me well. So she taught me some things… about girls. We had sex a few times. I later learned that she only did that to say she slept with an Arc… a Duchess' son. I… well I developed feelings for her, I always did bond with people easily. It ripped me up at first. Kate helped a bunch but… well we shared everything with each other and she of course knew about it soon after it happened. She soon left the castle and I never saw her again… I never meant anything to her beyond a footnote. I regret giving in to her, I have always felt bad for that, always regretted it. I was not ready for it and she… well let's just say it was her decision to be intimate. I was open to the idea yes but, I did not want to have sex with her. Not in that manner." He stopped to allow her a chance to speak.
She sorted through her thoughts on the matter and voiced "How old were you? The vampire had to make that… activity hard."
He nodded "It… was draining. I was 16 at the time. A few days after it happened I learned that I meant nothing to her and I regretted it ever sense then. Not the act itself just… that I gave in and ultimately meant nothing to her." He looked away.
She nuzzled his neck affectionately and spoke on "Jaune, I do not feel like you did anything wrong. If you are troubled by it, I will simply say I forgive you so you can move on. Ok?"
He was about to kiss her again when a pounding knock was applied to his door.
"JAUNE ARC ARE YOU IN THERE?!" A voice shouted.
Jaune took up the book and pencil again before voicing back. "You can come in…. whoever you are." The last part of the sentence was said practically to himself.
Weiss soon barged in with Ruby right behind her… both looked somewhat agitated.
The blond and redhead both just looked at them unsure what to think until the Heiress spoke on more than a touch angrily "Jaune, what is the meaning of these pictures? They are so SAD and DARK?!"
Ruby issued an agreeing "MHMM!"
Both girls glared at him sternly stomping their foot as if the entrance was rehearsed.
He scratched his head briefly before answering "Show me the pictures."
They both huffed but put their pictures down on his bed. Jaune recognized the combined scene.
Weiss was carrying a picture of Ruby. Ruby, a picture of Weiss. Combined it was the moment when The combined group of friends took their picture before the Winter Dance when they were discovered sleeping resting against each other under the window. The picture… initially was dark and unhappy. However Jaune knew enough to realize the truth.
He smiled.
They scowled harder.
He gulped, and spoke on "First of all, that is not a picture. It is a painting. That means I did not make it, Kate did. Secondly, you are being overly judgmental-"
"This picture shows us unhappy it is a terrible painting! Clearly it says us together is a bad idea!" Weiss declared stomping her foot again.
He smiled again.
"Have you tried merging the two pictures together? They were obviously designed as a single piece separated down the middle." He stated sagely already knowing the answer.
Judging by the surprised and somewhat embarrassed looks on their faces. The two girls clearly did not consider that…
Ruby picked up both pictures and tried to slide them together. They merged together perfectly. The instant the two pictures became one the image changed. No longer was it dark and gloomy. The moon was now visible in the window shining its light through onto the couple below. The unhappy and gloomy look on the two of them were replaced with smiles. The image went from a dark and dreary image to one of a near childlike innocence and fairytale like good.
"SEE THE PAINTING IS NOT TERRIBLE!" Kate shouted knowingly from the commons room.
Weiss smirked… Ruby giggled.
"Huh… how did she do that I wonder?" Ruby asked.
"Weiss, Ruby. I draw. Kate paints. She used a dust coated paint to store in two images. How she does it I have no idea. But trust me. That's her work, and it was meant as a gift from her." He smiled and moved his arms around Pyrrha again.
"YES IT WAS!" She shouted again.
"Huh…" Weiss stated… all her previous venom was now gone.
"APOLOGY ACCEPTED!" Kate shouted one more time… Jaune could practically feel the smile she was wearing.
"Right uh… We will leave you two alone now." Weiss stated as she shoved Ruby out and exited the room heading across the hall to their own dorm room.
Once the door was closed Pyrrha did something she had wanted to do the entire time she was leaning against him.
She spun and straddled one of his legs.
He seemed distracted by how she was looking at him and forgot what he was talking about previously.
"I uh… err…. hmm…"
She kept studying him intently with a warm and hungry smile on her face.
"Where… where were we?" He finally managed to say.
She did not answer with words. Instead she crawled slightly forwards to press her chest against his before moving her arms around his torso.
This time they kissed not out of a passion filled need. This was more gentle and loving.
Softer and sweeter. Not rushed for time or concern.
Pyrrha truly did not care about his experience with Melody. She loved him already, and she loved him more that she meant so much to him, he wanted to give as much of himself as she was herself… when the time was right.
She might have struggled with the words to get her meaning across. So she didn't try. Instead, as if copying a line from his mother. She chose to speak directly from the heart. Not out a heated passion, but of love. That was how they remained, in other others arms sharing their feelings through a different language than what could be spoken.
Their meanings were clear, and both were happy for it.
***RWBY DORM***
It was only a short argument that took place before the picture… now complete was placed in the room. Ruby wanted it next to her headboard… Weiss next to her own. In the end, they did the adult thing.
Rock Paper scissors naturally.
37 rounds later and the score still remaining at a tie they decided to compromise. No nothing like talk to Blake, Kate or Yang. You know the other people who might like to weigh in on where it ended up.
Above the door on the inside, equally between the two girls beds.
"Knew it would work out. Told you we shouldn't have gone in angry." Ruby said equal parts playfully and cheerfully as they both sat next to each other on the floor.
Weiss was tempted to scoff… Ruby was right and regardless of that she did not like being wrong.
"Well… don't get a big head." The Heiress said instead.
She leaned against Ruby's shoulder and closed her eyes.
"Hey, you tired?" The Reaper inquired.
Weiss opened her eyes. "No… a little worn out after this morning still maybe. I am still not used to it."
Ruby at this point took on a sinister glean in her eyes.
"Aww… is my widdle pwincess tired?" She stated playfully slightly turning towards her in a smile.
Weiss definitely scowled here.
"First of all I am not 'widdle' I am tiny there is a difference second of all-"
Ruby half turned into her for a kiss and continued to exert pressure forcing the smaller girl to her back.
Weiss thrashed… she heaved, she bucked… finally she scowled and surrendered laying flat comfortably on her back.
Her pride demanded her to say one thing before she completely gave in though.
"Ruby! You I … this is not fair I've worked hard why! GRR!" None the less she finally stopped thrashing when it was clear Ruby would not be outdone.
"That's fine Weissy… You just have to work harder." The Reaper stated playfully before going in for another kiss.
"Dolt." Came the response in between kisses reaching to pull her girlfriend closer.
"But I'm your dolt." Ruby joked in between kisses.
After a few minutes Ruby pulled back to let both of them catch their breath. She moved a hand to cup the left side of Weiss' face and brought her thumb over where the scar used to be.
"You are so pretty." She kissed right where the scar used to be.
Weiss gulped… she did not like talking about her scar.
"Quit being a dolt and kiss me." She pulled off her jacket and quickly threw it to the side.
Ruby grinned and followed her example.
The two of them enjoyed some private time… Time they have been privately seeking for a great deal of time and something always seemed to steal away at the last minute. Today, in this instance, nothing came up to interfere. Various pieces of clothing ended up on the ground and they may or may not have made their way into the shower before their escapades were over that afternoon.
***Beacon Main Courtyard."
Ren always was somebody who lived in quiet contemplation and made sure actions believing them to be the right thing to do, the right action to make… or he tended not to act.
That habit of his was proving to be incredibly hard to keep to with Katherine.
He had not lied to her, he did want to ask her to try and advance more as a couple. He also did not lie to her that he needed to do something before he could do that. He admitted it was a somewhat antiquated thing to do… but if he was going to do that and risk damaging his relationship with Jaune… he needed to be certain it was what he wanted to do.
That… and he has not had the opportunity. Merely asking the question would put himself out there in a way he has never done before. None the less… Everything in his being told him he needed to do this. His father told him it was important to abide by those rules as the last thing he ever passed on to his son. The least thing Ren could do, was try to follow them.
Not that he could actually tell anybody what that something was.
He felt like he understood how Jaune felt about Pyrrha… Jaune felt that Pyrrha could do so much better than himself. In a way… Ren felt the same about Katherine. None the less he was certain it was for different reasons…
He continued to ponder and think as he slowly walked his way through the snow to meet with Nora. It was spring… and they were enjoying probably the last snowfall of the season.
He reached the main archway… stopped…. and froze.
He knew that Nora wanted to make snowman… that was why she left after their morning workout anyway. He did not expect to see a snowman that should have required a crane to build.
He also did not expect to see Nora hugging around it using it for cover in a snowball fight.
-PAFF-
Neither did he expect to get hit by that snowball.
"RENNY GET IN HERE YOU ARE IN NO MANS LAND OUT THERE!" Nora called waving him over from the snowman.
He almost smiled but ran up to take shelter next to her.
"Why am I here Nora?" He asked calmly cleaning off the snowball.
"Cause I asked you here silly." She asked making a large 'shell' to fire.
"Nora" He tried again.
"Ok fine well…" Nora with a moment of clarify began to explain.
Velvet and Lavender are on the other end of the courtyard trying to have some fun in the snow. Team CRDL showed up and a snowball fight soon followed. The two sisters were outnumbered against a full team and sent for help. Nora soon arrived and tried to flank the hostile team using her snowman as cover. When it was clear that the wide angle of Nora's position gave her an advantage CRDL called in another team for help… the nearby team SSSN, 'male pride' they claimed.
Thus the two teams got the advantage on both Nora and the siblings. It was then unexpected help arrived.
Patricia and Lissette Arc reinforced the siblings and were able to hold out. Now all that was needed was for somebody to storm the barricade and force the two teams out of their cover where they will be 'snowballed down' by the dug in girls down the line.
"Ok… so again why am I here? If this is guys vs. gals shouldn't I be… you know… over there?" He suggested pointing to the two pockets of male teams somewhat confused.
Nora just huffed "Renny you have long hair so you can be an honorary chick for this battle." She sounded off and hefted her large boulder.
Ren just facepalmed… he would never hear the end of that one later.
"If you are done with explanations are we ready to do this?" A mysterious voice asked.
"Oh opps, Sorry let me get you in the comlink call." Nora claimed quickly.
Ren was soon patched in.
"Honorary chick eh? I will be sure a few certain people learn about that tomorrow." Velvet claimed maliciously.
"Thanks Nora." He stated dryly.
"Sorry Ren" She smiled.
"So, Nora has some big boulders saved up are we using them?" He asked.
"YOU TWO EVER GOING TO MOVE?!" Cardin's voice boomed through the courtyard.
Ren looked out, and had an idea. He didn't want to spend an eternity in a snowball fight he needed a way to end it quickly. His face lit up with a somewhat evil idea.
"Hey Cardin!" He shouted.
"…"
"REN?! Why are you on their side?!" The bigger man answered back.
Ren smiled… exactly where he thought he was.
He soon patched Cardin into the comlink call.
"If you are here to surrender You know my terms. One date from each of you… except you Ren." He answered smugly.
Nora just mouthed 'Why did you call him?'
He just smiled "Cardin, I can assure you, you want to surrender. I give you 5 seconds." He declared confidently.
"Why are we including him in this?" Patricia wondered.
"Yeah I will not be going on a date with him..." Velvet Agreed.
"He would have to kill me first…" Lissette put in sounding serious.
Ren smiled again… Nora was just confused.
"Ok Cardin. I tried. Nora? You remember last month you tried to have pancakes but you couldn't because we were out of syrup? So you had to throw them all away." He inquired.
He couldn't see it, but Cardin just sharpened his glare looking confused.
"Yes…" His friend answered unsure, remembering the crime against pancakes in question.
"Cardin threw it all away." He stated calmly.
"THAT'S BULLS-" Ren disconnected him from the call.
Nora just roared her angry roar and started to push on the snowman nearby.
"Be ready to act this will flush them from cover." He declared over the scroll talk.
Ren really didn't even need to act. Few things on Remnant can stop an angry Nora especially when pancakes were called into question or threatened.
CRDL ended up literally buried in the snow leaving the base of the snowman free to move around. and use as cover.
A few snowball volleys later and team SSSN soon abandoned the battlefield… not really being friends with team CRDL anyway.
"I just wanted to throw a snowball at Patricia anyway." Neptune stated with a grin as he walked… jogged…. dodged away.
Nora had to help Lavender unbury herself… the small girl tried to heft up and throw a boulder made for somebody larger than herself. A brief slip and the next thing she knew the entire thing collapsed on top of herself.
It took at least a few minutes to uncover the Bunny Faunus from her impromptu igloo.
Ren saw something that afternoon he never still struggled to believe is reality. Both of the elder Arc siblings helping, and even going as far as to give Velvet and hug as the elder sister thanked them for their assistance.
By the time the entertainment was over they all went their own ways back as it was nearly dinner time. None the less, a great many things got done, and it was a nice if relaxing day for just about everybody involved… not including the still buried team CRDL. They could get themselves out right?
Here we are another chapter… maybe now I can sleep ^.^
As always I am eager for feedback. Please leave a review and let me know your thoughts. If that's broken… as it often is send me an IM/comment email. If you enjoyed it please hit favorite/follow/kudos whatever. It all helps keep the mind motivated and churning out new ideas and more content.
Some things to bring up:
I need suggestions for a catchy Ren X Kate reference akin to Arkos for Pyrrha X Jaune. What I have come up with are either horrible cringe worthy or both.
I remain open to more bonus or intimate scene but requests have stopped… If nobody is interested in them I will stop asking. All I need is what type of scene you want, who is involved, and a brief idea of what you hope to be included.
If you have any suggestions or requests for either funny/sexy/shocking truths and or dares hit me up. I have another round planned before the year is up ( probably 2 chapters from now ) and if you have ideas I need to hear them soon so I can incorporate them.
I need more feedback on changing it an M rated story… haven't gotten much feedback and I grow more tempted every week to do it. I need your thoughts on the matter, I will assume no dissenters exist to my changing it if nobody mentions it.
I am assuming at this juncture that I need another artist for a story picture. If you are willing, or know somebody. Help us get in touch…. please.
I will happily discuss any questions folks have with the story and am eager to carry on conversations however lengthy with anybody who would like too.
I think that is all for tonight. Thank you for your time, thank you for reading, and I will see you next time. -Sean