(A/N)
Happy Holidays everybody! Welcome to the Christmas Special for NCRS!
I've been waiting to do this for a while now and I hope you're excited to see what I have in store for you all.
To recap what happened in the finale, Team RWBY and NCRS found Roman, Cardin, Neo, and the White Fang underground. It was also the time where they discovered two new enemies: Sephiroth and Hazama. Together with Oobleck, Barret, and Otacon, the two teams were able to stop their plans and turn Torchwick in.
Now that our heroes are getting a holiday break, what's in store for them? To find out the answer, let's get started!
Holiday Havoc
Beacon Academy
It's been a few days since the Grimm attacked Vale after the Mountain Glenn incident happened. While everyone was able to stop the Grimm, it left a bitter taste in some people's mouth, but that's not going to stop them to enjoy the upcoming holidays.
Ozpin is currently looking outside as snow starts to fall. He then heard someone calling his name before prompting him to turn back to his desk. He's currently having a meeting with the Council of Vale via video screen. On the right corner, there are three video feeds of the other Headmasters: General James Ironwood of Atlas, Jubei Mitsuyoshi of Shade, and Leonardo Lionheart of Haven, who is a middle aged man with light tan hair and beard.
"Greetings, Ozpin." A councilman greeted with a small hint of bitterness in his tone.
"Hello gentlemen." Ozpin greeted back as he took a sip from his cup.
"We must admit that we're not satisfied with these recent events, Ozpin." Another councilman said. "That's why we contacted you and the other Headmasters. Apologies for taking your time, gentlemen."
"It's no trouble at all." Lionheart reassured with a hand on his chest. "So, would you mind explaining what you and the other members would wish to discuss with us today?"
"This is about the Vytal Festival." The first councilman started. "We cannot broadcast the event if we are unable to ensure the safety of the citizens."
"I take it that you all have a plan that'll help protect the citizens during the Vytal Festival?" Jubei asked.
"That's correct, Mr. Mitsuyoshi." The first councilman answered. "After discussing this with the Atlas, Vacuo, and Mistral Council, we'll be appointing General Ironwood as head of security for the event."
"Thank you, Councilman." Ironwood said. "Our Kingdom is happy to lend as many troops as it takes to ensure that the event runs smoothly and safely as possible."
"And we thank you, General." The second councilman said back. "Mitsuyoshi, since you'll be staying at Beacon for the Vytal Festival, we'll be appointing you as the General's assistant."
"It'll be an honor to help." Jubei said with a smirk. "I even contacted some of my best Huntsmen and Huntresses to assist the troops."
"That'd be wonderful." The third councilman said. "Professor Lionheart, will you be able to gather up a team of Huntsmen and Huntresses before the festival?"
"Yes, me and the Mistral Council members are already getting in contact with them." Lionheart answered. "I apologize that I won't be there to assist you all. I got a lot more work back at Haven than I anticipated."
"It's fine, Leo." Jubei reassured with a chuckle. "We're just happy to hear that you'll be sending some of Mistral's best warriors."
"Will that be all?" Ozpin asked.
"For now." The first councilman sighed. "But after this festival comes to a close, we are going to have a serious discussion about your position at Beacon Academy."
"General Ironwood and Mitsuyoshi's reports over the last few weeks have left us somewhat concerned." The third councilman added. "I am sure you understand."
With that, the video feed for the Vale Council members disappears, leaving Ironwood, Jubei, and Lionheart's video feed alone with Ozpin.
"This is the right move, Ozpin." Ironwood said with reassurance. "I promise, I will keep our people safe, you have to trust me."
"You won't be doing this alone, James." Jubei chuckled. "I may be an old cat, but I'm not going to make myself useless."
"I wish you all lots of luck, gentlemen." Lionheart encouraged. "And enjoy the holidays."
Ozpin gave them a simple nod in response before turning away from his desk as the three video feeds disappear.
Auditorium
Jubei is currently meditating in the center of the arena with his dual kodachis, Musashi, while the lights are on. He continues to meditate until his cat ears twitch slightly, picking up noise.
"Now!" Jubei kept his eyes close as Team NCRS come out of hiding and jump towards the Shade Academy Headmaster.
Jubei opened his eyes and grabbed the hilts of his weapons with his mouth and uses his arms to block Snake's axe kick. He kept Snake in place as he used a joudan sokutogeri on Natsu's stomach, sending him flying into a wall. Jubei pushed Snake off as Ragna and Cloud jumped at him with their weapons in hand, prompting Jubei to grab his with his own hands and start clashing with the two.
Cloud twirls his sword before slamming it down, only to hit nothing. "Where'd he go?" He asked, keeping his guard up.
"I'll track him down." Natsu said as he and Snake got back up. He starts sniffing to pick up Jubei's scent, only to get stuck in the back numerous times by a barrage of slashes. "What the heck!?"
"Natsu, get back!" Snake shouted as he pointed his gun at Natsu, causing him to roll out of the way to reveal Jubei. Snake fired his gun, only for Jubei to deflect the bullets with his kodachis.
Jubei flipped the blades down before firing two shots on the ground, creating smoke that covers the arena. He then immediately appears behind Natsu and Snake before using a somersault kick to knock them into the ground.
"We got you now!" Ragna shouted as he and Cloud slammed their swords down at Jubei, only for the Headmaster to catch them with his bare hands, surprising the two. "Crap!"
Jubei lifted the weapons up in the air, bringing both wielders up with them before tossing them onto the ground.
"You kids are definitely improving since the last time we've fought." Jubei admitted while sitting down. "But you're all still unbalanced. It'll be a miracle if you even make it to the doubles round."
"Still unbalanced?" Ragna asked, raising an eyebrow. "You mean our teamwork?"
"No, I meant balancing out your physical and mental skills." Jubei chuckles. "Those two are the most important weapons a living being could ever have."
"How do we balance those two?" Cloud asked.
"You relax." Jubei said as he meditates to demonstrate. "Stay calm, no matter what situation you're in."
"I see. If we get too heated up during combat, then we leave ourselves wide open." Snake stated. "Is that correct?"
"Spoken like a true huntsman." Jubei smirked while pointing his kodachi at the stealth soldier.
"Thanks, Professor Mitsuyoshi." Natsu grinned. "Mind if I ask you something?"
"Go ahead, kid." Jubei answered, lowering his weapon.
"How were you able to move around so quickly? Do you have supersonic speed like Ruby?" Natsu asked.
"I wouldn't say her speed is considered supersonic…" Snake said with a sweatdrop.
"It's true that I'm fast…" Jubei started. "But it's actually my semblance."
"Oh yeah, that's something I've been meaning to ask." Ragna spoke up. "You never told me what your semblance is."
"Natsu, Snake. Look at your stomach and leg." Jubei instructed.
Natsu looked down at his stomach while Snake looked at the back of his leg. The two gasped in unison upon seeing an orange kanji symbol glowing on them.
"A symbol?" Snake asked, squinting at the symbol on his leg.
"Where did the heck did they come from?" Natsu asked with a puzzled expression.
"Master. Is that…?" Ragna started until Jubei lets out a chuckle.
"That's right. My semblance." Jubei said before he suddenly appear behind Natsu and Snake. "I can teleport to wherever I placed my mark."
"How do you know where to warp if you place more than one mark?" Snake asked, gesturing over to the two marks on him and Natsu.
"I concentrate and determine where I would like to warp to." Jubei stated as the marks on Natsu and Snake disappear. "However, like all semblances, mines have some drawbacks. I can only warp to one location at a time. And the marks don't last very long. Plus, it costs a lot of aura to do more than two marks."
"Wow, your semblance is awesome!" Natsu exclaimed with stars in his eyes.
"It's good to see that this generation of Huntsmen and Huntresses are still appreciating the classics." Jubei chuckled in amusement. "Nowadays, semblances are about flashiness and showing off. Back in my days, semblances are all about practicality and how useful it is in combat."
"What about our semblances?" Ragna asked, holding his right hand up as it glows blue as an example. "Are they considered flashy or practical?"
"It depends on how you use it and what you use it for." Jubei stated. "Your semblances are not just a superpower that you all possess. Semblances are a part of you. It defines who you are on the outside and the inside."
"They're also a part of us…?" Cloud asked as he looks at his own hand before activating his semblance for a brief moment.
"That's right and like every living being in Remnant, Our semblances can evolve." Jubei stated, catching Team NCRS' attention more. "It's true that you all know how to use your semblance, but you're still at the beginning. In order for your semblance to evolve, you must grow as well." Jubei then hears a vibration sound, prompting him to reach into his pockets and take out his scroll. "Well I think that's enough for today. We'll continue training once the holidays are over. Even heroes need a break."
"Thank you for the lessons, Professor Mitsuyoshi." Snake said, bowing his head.
"There's no need to be so formal, Snake." Jubei chuckled as he patted the stealth soldier's arm. "But in seriousness, I am honored to help you all out. Enjoy the holidays."
"We will." Cloud said, waving at the cat faunus as he, Snake, and Natsu make their way to the locker room.
Ragna looks at his team talking with each other while Natsu is doing brief martial art moves, causing Cloud and Snake to laugh. This causes Ragna to smile and let out a small chuckle.
"Your new friends have a lot of spirit." Jubei admitted, standing next to Ragna.
"Yeah, they do." Ragna confessed. "I can count on them if shit gets rough. And they can count on me too."
"You think Santa's going to give you presents with that filthy mouth of yours?" Jubei joked with a smirk as he playfully jabbed Ragna's left arm.
"Real funny, Master." Ragna sighed as he returns the jab, causing the two to let out a chuckle before Ragna starts to walk away from Jubei. "Enjoy the holidays."
Courtyard
Team NCRS began making their way through the courtyard, which is now covered with white snow. As they're about to head inside, Meryl, who is wearing a green winter coat, ran past the boys like she's in a hurry.
"Hey Meryl!" Natsu called out, causing her to nearly slipped due to the ice on the floor.
"Oh, hello boys." Meryl greeted back. "How did training go?"
"It wasn't bad." Cloud answered before noticing a list in Meryl's hand. "You're going Christmas shopping already?"
"Yeah, I want to make sure I get everything ready for Christmas." Meryl answered with a smile. "Especially for Noel."
"Is there a reason why you're making this special for her?" Snake asked, raising an eyebrow.
"It's because her birthday is on that day." Meryl said, surprising Team NCRS.
"Wait, she was born on Christmas!?" Ragna exclaimed, only to get a nod from Meryl in return.
"Wow, she's so lucky!" Natsu whined with a pout.
"First Ruby's birthday on Halloween and now Noel's birthday on Christmas." Cloud listed. "What's next? Sun's birthday on Easter?"
"I was going to say Independence Day, but Easter does sound interesting." Snake told Cloud, causing the two to exchange laughter.
"Hey guys!" The five look over to see Team RWBY, wearing winter coats that are their signature color: Ruby with red, Weiss with white, Blake with black, and Yang with yellow. "What's going on?"
"Meryl's going to do something special for Noel because her birthday is on Christmas!" Natsu exclaimed, causing Meryl to panic.
"What!? Her birthday is on Christ-" Ruby started until her and Natsu's mouths are covered by Meryl's hands.
"Will you two keep it down?" Meryl whispered in annoyance. "I don't want Noel to find out. I want this to be a surprise."
"Sorry." Natsu and Ruby muffled in unison, earning a sweatdrop from their teams.
"Do you need any help, Meryl?" Yang asked.
"Oh, you don't have-" Meryl started, but stops before removing her hands from the team leaders' mouths so she can look at her list again. "Actually, yeah. I need help. There's a lot that I want to do. I don't want to make it perfect, but I still want her to have a great birthday and Christmas."
"We understand." Blake smiled.
"We'll do everything we can to assist you." Weiss said with pride.
"We can ask Team JNPR, CFVY, and SSSN to help us out." Ruby suggested.
"I know Team JNPR is here, but I'm not sure about Team CFVY and SSSN." Ragna brought up. "I know that Team CFVY left to celebrate the holidays somewhere in Vale."
"Actually, Sun and Neptune are still here." Blake stated. "Scarlet and Sage went back to Mistral to celebrate the holidays over there."
"Did you tell Jin and Tsubaki about this?" Snake asked Meryl.
"Yeah, I told them earlier." Meryl answered.
"Come on, let's make this the best Christmas for Noel." Ruby said, putting her fist up in the air. "Banzai!"
"Banzai!" The other cheered in unison, though Ragna and Snake's banzai cheer was not as exciting in comparison to their friends.
Beacon Dorm, Living Room
After calling their friends, Team RWBY, NCRS, JNPR, MJT, and SN are now gathered up in the living room without Noel knowing. While everyone else is sitting down, Meryl is standing up.
"Ok guys, listen up. Christmas is only two days from here, so we need to work as hard as possible." Meryl started. "But we have to make sure Noel doesn't find out." She then looks over to Neptune. "Neptune, I want you to keep her occupied while we get everything ready."
"You got it." Neptune said, pointing his fingers at Meryl while his teeth sparkled.
"Ren, Blake, Tsubaki, Jin, and Ragna. You five will be in charge of baking the cake." Meryl instructed. "Snake, Cloud, Weiss, Jaune, Pyrrha, and I will go shopping. The rest of you will be charge of decorations."
"Sounds like a plan to me." Sun said with a grin.
"And Nora." Meryl said, looking at the hammer girl. "Please don't eat the cake when they finish. In fact, those that are working on decorations, can you make sure Nora doesn't go anywhere near the baking team?"
"Don't worry, we'll make sure Nora is in our sights." Sun said, flashing his badge. "I am a Junior Detective, so I know how to deal with these kinds of situations."
"Do you have to flash that badge everytime?" Jin sighed.
"You're just jealous that you don't have one." Sun grinned, irking Jin even more.
"Don't make me cut off-" Jin started, only for Ragna to hold him down.
"Cut off what Jin?" Ragna asked with a nasty glare, causing Jin to sigh.
"Please refrain from showing off. It's rather annoying." Jin said with a cold glare and an icy aura.
"I-I'll be sure to tone it down, Mr. Sub-Zero." Sun said with a hint of fear in his voice.
"Thank you, Ragna." Meryl said with a small sigh. She shook her head before smiling. "Without further ado, let's get started."
"I know where the decorations are at." Yang said, getting up from the couch. "Me and Ruby decorate our house with Dad all the time for the holidays."
"This is going to be so much fun!" Ruby squealed.
"Pyrrha and I know a good store to go shopping." Jaune suggested.
"It's a lovely store." Pyrrha said with a smile.
"Very well, would you two lead the way?" Weiss asked.
"Of course." Jaune nodded as he and Pyrrha start making their way with Weiss, Cloud, Snake, and Meryl following them. The other teams got up and began making their way to their tasks.
"I know Ren and I can cook, but what about the rest of you?" Ragna asked.
"Me and Ruby are the only cooks in Team RWBY." Blake answered. "Weiss burnt the toast last time and Yang nearly made the oven explode."
"Goodness…" Tsubaki gasped in shock.
"Ren, we'll follow your lead." Blake said.
"That's fine with me." Ren nodded with a smile.
With Neptune
"Okay Neptune… Just stay calm." Neptune took a few deep breaths. It's true that he has talked to Noel numerous times, he still can't help but feel nervous because he doesn't want to risk spilling the beans. He continues to walk down the hallway until he spotted Noel around the corner, who is wearing a Christmas Sweater. "Hey, Noel!"
"Eek!" Noel shrieked and jumps up a bit before turning around to see Neptune walking up to her. "Oh, h-hello Neptune. H-How are you doing?"
"I'm good, but are you okay?" Neptune asked in concern. "You look nervous."
"I'm fine." Noel reassured before turning away from Neptune and holds her face in embarrassment, which is slowly turning red.
"If you're embarrassed about the sweater, then there's nothing to worry about." Neptune reassured.
"R-Really?" Noel stuttered. "Even though the design looks silly?"
"I think it's cute." Neptune admitted with a smile.
"T-Thank you, N-Neptune." Noel said, awkwardly rubbing her arm. "W-What are you doing here?"
"I was wondering if you want to go somewhere fun and get to know each other a bit more?" Neptune offered. "It'll be like the Beacon Dance."
"You better not be flirting with any other girls." Noel said with a glare.
"Don't worry, I won't do that." Neptune reassured, causing Noel to smile.
"Come on, there's this movie I want to see." Noel said.
"Sounds good." Neptune said as he and Noel began making their way out of the dorms.
Baking Team
"I know Ren's a talented chef, so I believe that he should be the leader." Blake suggested before turning to Ren. "Will you be okay with that?"
"That's fine with me." Ren agreed with a nod before looking at Ragna, Blake, Jin, and Tsubaki. "So, how are your culinary skills?"
"I used to cook for Jin and Saya all the time when we were little." Ragna said, remembering when he made meals for his siblings. "Hell, I was voted to be the team cook."
"I know how to cook." Blake admitted.
"Me and Jin learn how to cook back in Atlas." Tsubaki answered.
"At least Noel isn't here because if she tries cooking…" Jin started before he shivers in fear and disgust, something that actually surprised everyone, with the exception of Tsubaki.
"Wait, she's a bad cook?" Ren asked.
"Bad doesn't even begin to describe her culinary skills." Jin confessed. "Can we get started already?"
"Right. We can't waste anymore time." Ren said, taking out a cookbook.
Decoration Team
Yang opened the door to the storage room before she, Ruby, Natsu, Sun, and Nora entered the room. Upon entering, the team start looking through the boxes to find the Christmas Decoration and tree.
Sun decided to make things easier by climbing and using his tail to latch onto one of the pipes on the ceiling. As he's hanging upside down, he grabs some boxes before handing them to the others.
"Very clever, Sun." Nora admitted in amusement.
"I thought it'd make things quicker." Sun said with a toothy grin.
"Please be careful up there." Ruby said in concern.
"Don't worry." Sun reassured. "Careful is my middle name."
Sun continues to collect boxes from above and passes them to his friends as they all move them outside, one by one.
"I do have a question." Natsu spoke up, catching everyone else's attention. "Who's gonna put the star on top?"
"Oh, can I do it?" Ruby begged. "Please, please, please!"
"What about Noel?" Sun suggested, still hanging upside down with a box in hands. "It makes sense since she's the birthday girl."
"Aww." Ruby whines and crosses her arms with a pout.
"Don't be like that, Ruby." Yang said with a slight scold. "I know you like putting the star on top, but I think it's fair if Noel gets to do it."
"But-" Ruby started until she noticed everyone's expression, causing her to sigh in defeat after thinking about it. "Ok, Noel can be the one to put the star on top."
"Hey, maybe you'll do it next year." Yang reassured with a pat on the back, earning a smile from her little sister.
"Hey Nora, Yang." Natsu called out, trying to not drop the box containing the Christmas Tree. "Can you two help me with the tree?"
"Sure, hang on." Nora said as she and Yang walked over before they each grab the corners, helping Natsu with carrying the box. Once Ruby and Sun moved out of the way, the three heavy lifters began making their way out of the storage room.
"Ruby, Sun, can you grab some of the boxes and bring them to the living room?" Yang asked.
"You got it!" Sun answered as he grabbed one more box until…
*CREAK! CRASH!*
"WOAH!" Sun screamed while numerous breaking sounds occurred, frightening the four as they all turned around to see a dizzy Sun on the floor, surrounded by broken shelves, glasses, and crushed boxes. They slowly look up to see that the pipe that Sun was hanging from has broke from the amount of weight from Sun and the boxes he's been collecting.
"I ain't cleaning that up." Nora said with a shrug.
"Sun, are you okay!?" Natsu asked as he and Ruby run over to the monkey faunus before helping him back up.
"I think so." Sun groaned before looking at the mess he made and up at the broken pipe before he starts laughing awkwardly. "Well, at least all of the other stuff like the Halloween Decorations didn't get destroyed… I think…"
"I'll call Miss Goodwitch." Ruby sighed as she took out her scroll.
With Shopping Team
The shopping team hopped off the Bullhead as they arrive in Vale, which is now partially covered in snow and every building has numerous holiday decorations. Jaune and Pyrrha continue to lead the four to the store they've mentioned earlier.
"You don't see this in Atlas every day." Meryl said with a small smile on her face.
"I agree. While it's true that there are some holiday decorations around Atlas, there's not a lot of joy." Snake stated, noticing the amount of kids playing in the snow.
"We should be at the store soon." Jaune informed the others.
"Excellent." Weiss said as she took out her credit card.
"Oh, you don't have to pay, Weiss." Pyrrha said, holding her hands up.
"I want to contribute as much as I can." Weiss confessed with a smile. "I don't want to be my old self and make everyone do the heavy work for me. After all, the holidays are about giving and caring."
"If you want to help with the payment, then that's fine with us." Meryl nodded in approval.
"You've definitely changed, Weiss." Cloud pointed out with a smile, causing Weiss to slightly blush from his words.
The six continue to make their way through Downtown Vale, but all of them stop once they see Neptune and Noel just around the corner.
"Oh no, Noel's here. This is going to be hard." Jaune gulped.
"Stay calm." Snake whispered with a grunt. "We can still pull this off."
"Oh! Hello everyone!" The six jump a bit as they see Neptune and Noel walking over to them.
"H-Hello Noel." Meryl greeted back nervously. "Hello Neptune."
"Sup." Neptune greeted back. "What are you guys doing here?"
"We were just Uh…" Jaune started before rubbing the back of his head awkwardly. "That's right. We were about to get some ammunition and supplies for our weapons."
"That's odd." Noel said, placing a finger underneath her lip. "The weapons store in Downtown Vale are closed for the holidays."
Jaune felt his entire body freezing up as his excuse wasn't good enough for Noel to believe. The others secretly gave each other a worried look before Cloud immediately step up.
"Y-You're right. The one here in Downtown Vale is closed, but we're going to another one." Cloud added to help Jaune with his excuse.
"Outside of Vale?" Noel asked, raising an eyebrow before putting her hands together. "Ohh yeah. The one in Wern Town, correct?"
"That's right." Pyrrha answered with a nervous smile.
"Very well, just be careful because I heard it's very cold in the path to Wern." Noel warned.
"We appreciate the concern." Snake said. "But most of us have been in Atlas, so we know how to survive in cold weather."
"That is true." Noel agreed.
"What about you two?" Pyrrha asked in hopes to change the subject.
"Me and Noel will be exploring the town, but we'll be seeing a movie first." Neptune good the six as he holds up two movie tickets.
"That's right! Let's go Neptune!" Noel shouted as she ran past them, but stops and turns around. "If we go there now, we'll be able to find some seats before they're full!"
"You go on ahead, I'll catch up." Neptune told Noel, earning a nod from his friend as she makes her way to the movie theater. He and the others let out a sigh before they all huddle in. "Okay, I can keep Noel distracted with the movies and showing her around Vale, but you better make this shopping trip of yours fast."
"That's the plan. Be sure that you keep her occupied and happy." Meryl whispered to Neptune.
"You got it." Neptune said before running to catch up to Noel.
"Man, that was close." Jaune sighed in relief before turning to Cloud and Pyrrha. "Thanks for having my back."
"You're welcome." Pyrrha said in a singing tone.
"No problem, but man. Talk about a close one." Cloud admitted with a sigh.
"Neptune's right, we better make this as fast as possible." Snake brought up. "Especially since Noel is here in Vale."
"Right, follow us." Jaune said as he and Pyrrha start speed walking to the store with the rest trailing behind them.
Cooking Team
The cooking team start doing various tasks in baking the cake, all of them wearing different colored Aprons: Ren wearing a pink apron that reads [Please Do Nothing to the Cook], Blake wearing a purple apron with a black ninja star print, Tsubaki wearing a magenta apron with white angelic wings and a sword in the center (her huntsman symbol), Ragna wearing a blue apron with his huntsman symbol in white, and Jin wearing a white apron with a blue flower shaped snowflake with a sword behind (his huntsman symbol).
"How's everyone progress coming along?" Ren asked as he stirs the batter.
"It's going smoothly." Tsubaki answered as Blake nods in agreement while the girls continue to stir their batter.
Ragna and Jin continue to stir their batter. Jin noticed the speed of Ragna's stirring, prompting him to stir faster than Ragna. Ragna noticed that Jin increased the speed of his stirring before doing the same.
"Why the hell are you stirring faster?" Ragna asked with a tick mark.
"Because you're stirring faster." Jin answered with a cold glare.
"We could just stir in unison like the others." Ragna offered with an annoyed tone.
"Then why the hell don't we just do that?" Jin asked as he increased the speed of his stirring.
"All I'm saying is that you should tone down the speed!" Ragna exclaimed, increasing the speed of his stirring.
"I'll tone down the speed as soon as you do it first!" Jin exclaimed back, causing the two brothers to butt heads with each other.
"You just couldn't resist making the simplest things into a competition, can you?" Ragna asked.
"Like you're any different from me." Jin said, unaware that the bickering is drawing the attention of the other cooks.
"Ok asshole, let's see if you're any better!" Ragna challenged as the two brothers start stirring like crazy.
"What's this? My brother is finally challenging me?" Jin gasped as he has a crazy expression on his face. "I've been waiting for this! I'll beat you, brother!"
"Boys, please stop." Tsubaki begged.
"You're making a mess." Blake sighed while shaking her head.
"Good grief…" Ren sighed in annoyance as the brothers continue to stir like crazy, inadvertently causing a mess in the kitchen.
"Good thing I'm wearing a bow." Blake admitted as she, Tsubaki, and Ren get splattered by the cake batter.
"Should we… Stop them?" Ren asked.
"Trust me, when Jin gets like this, it's impossible to stop them." Tsubaki sighed.
"Let's get the others to help." Blake suggested as the three quietly make their way out of the kitchen and into the boys and girls bathroom so they can wash off their faces.
As Blake washed her face, Tsubaki took notice of Blake's locket hanging out of her pocket.
"Oh my, that's a pretty locket you got there." She admitted, catching Blake's attention.
"Locket?" Blake asked before looking at her locket. She grabbed the chain and takes it out. "Oh, this one. I've been carrying this with me since I was a kid."
"It's very lovely." Tsubaki commended.
"Thanks." Blake smiled.
Tsubaki leans in closer to get a good look at the locket and once she taps it, the locket opens to reveal a photo of Blake when she was little alongside two boys, causing Tsubaki to gasp and widen her eyes.
"Is something wrong?" Blake asked in concern.
"Blake. Apologies for my bluntness…" Tsubaki started. "But… Have you and Natsu… met before?"
"Me and Natsu?" Blake asked, raising an eyebrow. "Now that you've mentioned it, Natsu asked me the same exact question on the first day of school."
"And what was your answer?" Tsubaki asked.
"I told him that I don't remember meeting him before." Blake recalled. "Why did you ask that?"
"I may be seeing things, but one of the boys in the photo looks like him." Tsubaki pointed out.
"Oh yeah, I forgot that I have a photo in my-" Blake said as she looks at the photo in her locket, causing her to gasp to see that the boy on the left looks like Natsu. "What the?"
Blake couldn't believe at what she's seeing. It's starting to make her think about Natsu's question more and makes her wonder if Natsu has the same exact locket as her or not.
"I better talk to Natsu about this." Blake said.
"It's best to save it for later." Tsubaki recommended. "But who's the other boy in the photo?"
Blake looks at the photo in her locket again, focusing on the boy on the right, who has black hair. She squints at the photo closely before responding- "I don't… I don't remember." She sighed before closing her locket and putting it away.
Shopping Team
"Holy crap…" Cloud said in awe as he and the others are in a store filled with Christmas decorations and numerous items.
"I've never even a store like this before." Meryl said, admiring the scenery around her.
"They have a lot of good deals whenever the holidays are nearby." Jaune stated. "Me and the rest of Team JNPR go here all the time."
"What do you guys usually get from here?" Snake asked as he grabbed a shopping cart.
"Clothes, kitchen supplies, food, anything that we need." Pyrrha listed.
"Ok, I got the list in my hands so we know what to buy." Meryl said, looking at her list as the six start walking around the store with Cloud pushing the cart.
As Meryl reads the list, Snake, Weiss, Jaune, and Pyrrha added different items in the shopping cart. They continue this process until they arrive at the Christmas Section.
Pyrrha starts humming a holiday tone while looking at the pretty snow globes until she felt someone tapping her shoulder, prompting the redhead to turn around.
"Sorry if I scared you, Pyrrha." Jaune apologized.
"It's fine, Jaune." Pyrrha reassured with a smile. "Is there something you want?"
"Can you hold still for just a minute?" Jaune asked, causing Pyrrha to nod before he places a pretty yellow clip in the shape of a flower over Pyrrha's hair. "Wow, it does suit you."
Pyrrha can feel her entire face turning red in embarrassment because not only Jaune is standing too close to her, but it's also the fact that he said that she looks nice with the hair clip.
"What's wrong, Pyrrha?" Jaune asked in concern before putting the pieces together, causing him to pull his hand away and blushes bright red. "Ahh! S-S-Sorry! Oh my gosh, I shouldn't have done that!"
"No, no! I-It's fine, Jaune!" Pyrrha reassured with an awkward laugh. "I-I appreciate the compliment! W-Why don't we keep looking?"
"Great idea!" Jaune agreed as he and Pyrrha continue to look around, unaware that some people saw what happened.
"I swear, those two are helpless." Weiss sighs with a hand on her hip.
"They gotta confess eventually." Cloud said, crossing his arms. "But let's not worry about them."
"I agree." Weiss smiled before looking up at the ceiling with a blush on her face.
"Are you okay, Weiss?" Cloud asked in concern before he looks up as well, blushing as he and Weiss can see a mistletoe above them. They look down and stare at each other before stepping away.
"T-That has to be unintentional." Weiss huffed, looking away from Cloud.
"C-Come on, let's find Snake and Meryl." Cloud suggested.
"We're right behind you, love birds." The two froze in place before they slowly turned around to see Snake and Meryl with amused expressions on their faces.
"H-How long were you two standing there?" Weiss asked as she can feel her face turning more red.
"For a while." Meryl giggled. "Why are you two turning red?"
"Hey, you two better wipe that smirk off your face." Cloud glared at the two.
"There's no need to overreact." Snake chuckled. "We understand why you two didn't do it."
"You're enjoying this, aren't you?" Weiss sighed while rolling her eyes.
"Maybe~" Meryl teases before clearing her throat. "But in seriousness, do you guys get everything?"
"There's one more gift left to get." Cloud answered as the four head back into the Christmas Aisle to find the last gift for Noel.
Decoration Team
"We're so sorry about the mess we caused, Miss Goodwitch." Ruby apologized as she and the others are standing in front of the teacher.
"It's fine. Nothing valuable got too damaged. And at least you were smart enough to inform me right away." Glynda reassured while adjusting her glasses. "But Mr. Wukong, please refrain from doing that again. For your sake."
"You got it." Sun promised with a thumbs up.
"Good." Glynda nodded. "Now if you excuse me, I'm off to attend the faculty Christmas Party."
"Have fun." Yang waves as the teacher left the room, causing them to let out a sigh of relief.
"That was close." Natsu said as he sat down on the chair. "I thought it was gonna be worse."
"Come on, let's start decorating." Yang said as the team start opening the boxes for the decorations.
After opening the boxes, Sun carefully climbs up to set up the Christmas Banner while Nora, Yang, and Natsu put the Christmas Tree up. After putting up the tree, the decoration team starts to decorate the trees with lights, ornaments, tinsel, and Other Christmas Tree decorations.
"Aside from the star, I think we'll be done in no time." Sun said.
"Should we help the other teams once we're done?" Natsu suggested.
"I was just about to say that." Ruby said with a smile.
"Sounds good." Yang nodded in agreement. She smiles at Natsu before noticing a small hint of chain on Natsu's neck. "I didn't know you wear a necklace."
"Necklace? What necklace?" Natsu asked, prompting Yang to point at her neck, emphasizing where she sees the chain. "Oh, you're talking about this." He said as he grabbed the chain and takes it off his neck.
Both Yang and Ruby gasp in shock with widened eyes upon realizing that it's not a necklace, but a locket, which is exactly like Blake's locket.
"What? You don't like it?" Natsu asked, noticing the sisters' expressions.
"Natsu…" Ruby started. "Where did you get that locket?"
"Uhh… I got it a long time ago." Natsu answers, raising an eyebrow. "Is something wrong?"
"Your locket looks exactly like Blake's locket." Ruby pointed out.
"Really?" Sun looks over the tree and spotted the locket dangling from Natsu's hand. "I didn't know you two have the same lockets. Heck, I didn't know you two like jewelry that much."
"Wait… Blake has the same locket as me…?" Natsu asked, widening his eyes as he starts to think about his question.
"We're not joking." Yang confirmed with a serious look on her face.
"Have you two met each other before?" Nora asked.
"That's what I asked Blake, but she said she doesn't know." Natsu recalled, putting his locket away as he scratches his head. "It feels like I know her, but I can't put my finger on it."
"Maybe you and Bake should talk about it." Ruby suggested.
"That's a good idea." Sun agreed while Yang and Nora nod in unison. "But don't do it now. Do it when you two are alone."
"I will." Natsu said with a nod before sniffing a few times. "Someone's coming."
The others jumped up a bit and turns around in fear, worried that it might be Noel. The decoration team looks over to see that it was only Ren, Blake, and Tsubaki, causing the decoration team to let out a huge sigh.
"You know, for a second, it looked like you were worried that the Torchwick guy snuck into Beacon." Sun laughed.
"Real funny, Sun." Yang said, rolling her eyes. "We just don't want Noel to find out."
"Meryl texted us. Noel's with Neptune." Tsubaki reassured.
"Guys, we're going to need your help." Blake said before looking at Natsu. "Especially you, Natsu."
"Don't tell me…" Natsu sighed in annoyance as he already knew what the problem was.
"Correct. Ragna and Jin are fighting again." Ren informed.
"Oh no…" Ruby groaned as she facepalms.
"At least they're not using their weapons." Tsubaki said awkwardly.
"A fight breaking out in the kitchen?" Sun gasped before putting on sunglasses and taking out his badge. "Time to handle this: Junior Detective style! Let's roll!" With that, Sun took off to the kitchen with the others trailing behind him.
"Ragna! Jin! You two better stop no-" Natsu started until he heard Ragna and Jin's voices, causing him to stop with the others.
"Keep it up, Jin!" Ragna shouted from the kitchen.
"That's what I'm doing, brother!" Jin laughed maniacally. "This'll be the best cake that we've ever baked!"
As the brothers continue to bake and laugh, The others, who are standing outside of the kitchen, have surprised expressions on their faces. They thought that it'd be a disaster, but it turned out to be the exact opposite, especially after seeing a sign that reads [Do Not Disturb] on the door.
"Well, at least they're not fighting anymore." Nora said.
"But what could they be doing that's so secretive?" Tsubaki questioned, placing a hand on her chin.
"Should I be excited or scared about this?" Natsu asked the others, who gave him a shrug in return.
With Neptune and Noel
After they walked out of the movies, Neptune and Noel continue to explore Downtown Vale while holding hands.
"What did you think of the movie?" Noel asked.
"I think it was pretty good." Neptune answered. The two look up in the sky to see that it starts snowing, causing them to smile. "Why don't we walk around for a bit?"
"Sure." Noel answered with a cute smile and blush on her face. "There's a lot of things I want to do before the night is over."
Neptune nods in agreement as he and Noel start to walk while holding hands. The first of the activities that they did was participating in a Christmas Choir. At first, Noel was shy and embarrassed about doing it until Neptune encouraged her and the two got up and sang a few songs.
After they performed at the Christmas Choir in the center of Vale, the two went to a cafe for dinner.
"Thanks for giving me the courage to sing with the choir, Neptune." Noel said as she took a sip from her cup of hot chocolate.
"I'm happy to help, Noel." Neptune smiled as he starts eating his meal. "I hope you don't mind me asking, but what's your family like? I know they're nobles."
"Oh, it's okay. I trust you." Noel reassured before looking at her reflection within her drink. "To tell you the truth, I was actually adopted into the family."
Neptune starts to choke on his food, prompting him to pound his chest numerous times before Noel hands him his beverage, causing him to drink it before he lets out a sigh in relief.
"Wait, you were adopted?" Neptune asked in shock.
"That's right." Noel said with a frown on her face. "About 10 years ago, I had no one. I don't even remember who my real parents were. I spent my youth trying to survive in Mantle. When the Grimm attacked Mantle, I was found by my parents: Edgar and Claire Vermillion. My father is a member of the Atlesian Council while my mother runs a company. They found me in the streets and adopted me. 2 years later, my father was struggling to keep the Vermillion Family name alive after he rebelled against the rest of the Council Members' decision on what's right for Atlas. Upon hearing that my family name is in danger, I took the entrance exam and enlisted myself into Atlas Academy so I can join the Military."
"Have you told your parents about this?" Neptune asked.
"I did." Noel nodded. "At first, my mother scolded me for joining the academy that's run by someone who's trying to ruin my father's career, but once I told them that I want to help them, they both accepted my choice. I may be the youngest member of Team MJNT, but I continue to work hard in order to help my family."
Neptune was at a loss for words. He couldn't believe that a cute and beautiful girl had a rough childhood, making him feel bad for her. However, he does admit to himself that Noel has guts and determination despite her timid nature, something that he admires.
"Wow…" Neptune spoke up. "You definitely got the courage of a huntress."
"Y-You think?" Noel asked with a slight gasp.
"Of course." Neptune nodded. "If anything, I'm a little jealous."
"Why's that?" Noel asked.
"Do remember what I said about me trying to be cool like Sun?" Neptune asked, causing Noel to nod. "Well, I didn't really have that much courage when I was young. A lot of people would make fun of me for my fear of water. However, Sun was my only friend from middle school and he was WAY cooler than me. He's always stepping in to help someone while I just sit back and watch because I couldn't do anything."
"Wait, you're afraid of water?" Noel asked with a cute puzzled expression on her face. "Why? Your name is Neptune."
"I promise that I won't tell anyone, but since I told Sun, Blake, and Natsu, I might as well tell you." Neptune sighed. "It happened when I was in elementary school. Me and a bunch of students went to the beach to celebrate the last day of school. We even brought our parents with us. However, I was swimming by myself because I wanted to have fun for a little longer, but I panicked when I saw a bunch of creatures swimming around me and that caused me to fall out of my inflatable tube and nearly drown. After I was rescued, I developed a fear of water on that day and whenever the class has to take swimming lessons, I usually panic when trying to swim, causing the rest of my classmates to make fun of me."
"You nearly drowned…?" Noel gasped in horror.
"Yeah, but I got lucky that day." Neptune confessed with a frown. "Noel, can you promise not to tell anyone? I don't want a lot of people to make fun of me like in middle school. If I want to be a Huntsman, then I need to start being myself and build courage as opposed to being like someone else."
"Don't worry, I won't tell anyone." Noel reassured, holding his hands. "And I know you can conquer your fear one day."
"Thanks Noel." Neptune smiles. "I'm glad that I can trust you."
"And thank you too, Neptune." Noel smiles back. "You helped me become a little more brave and you actually treat me like an actual person."
*Tch*
Neptune's eyes widened after he felt Noel's lips pressing against his cheek. Noel immediately pulls away and puts her hands over her mouth as her face turns red in embarrassment.
"I-I'm sorry." She apologized.
"I-It's fine." Neptune reassured. "I-I don't hate it or anything."
"You don't?" Noel asked as she slowly moves her hands away from her mouth.
The two continue to stare at each other as both of their hearts start beating rapidly and loudly.
"I'm uh…" Neptune started with an awkward chuckle. "I'm not really good at these parts."
"I-It's okay." Noel stuttered as the two lean a little closer to each other. "I'm not good at this either."
Noel and Neptune start to calm down and close their eyes before they kiss each other on the lips. They both feel surprised that they're doing this, but they also enjoy it. Noel wraps her arms around Neptune's neck while Neptune wraps his arms around Noel's waist as they enjoy their first kiss.
Later that Night
After dropping Noel off to the dorm for the Atlas Students, Neptune began making his way to the Beacon Dorm, humming with his hands behind his back.
"There you are, Neptune." Said person looks ahead to see Sun and Jaune, waiting by the entrance.
"Sup Sun." Neptune greeted with a simple nod before looking at Jaune. "Sup… John?"
"Ehh, it's Jaune, but close enough." Jaune sighed. "Anyways, where's Noel?"
"She's at her dorm." Neptune said.
Sun squinted his eyes and noticed the expression in Neptune's eyes, causing him to smirk. "Ooh, I like that face."
"You wouldn't believe it." Neptune chuckled. "We started to know each other a bit more and then, it happened."
"What happ-" Jaune started before he looks surprised after putting the pieces together. "No way! You and Noel kissed!?"
"Shh!" Neptune hushed, placing a finger over his mouth. "Not so loud. We just started and wanted to take things slow, you know what I mean?"
"I getcha." Sun nodded in understanding. "Don't worry, I won't tell anyone."
"You can trust us." Jaune reassured.
"Thanks dudes." Neptune said, sharing a bro fist with Sun and Jaune. The three walked inside and spotted Natsu, who has an annoyed expression. "Natsu?"
"Is something wrong?" Jaune asked in concern.
"Come to the kitchen…" Natsu grumbled. "Now…"
The Kitchen
Team RWBY, JNPR, NCS, SN, and MJT stare at Ragna and Jin with a combination of shock and annoyance. Ragna and Jin continue to stand in front of the teams with pride and joy as behind them is a giant cake with white frosting and Christmas decorations.
"Me and Jin have done it." Ragna chuckled with a smirk.
"Behold, Noel's birthday cake!" Jin announced, gesturing over to the cake with pride. "I must admit that me and my brother were surprised at how the results turned out. What do you think?"
*WHACK! WHACK!*
Ragna and Jin shouted in pain and held their heads after Meryl hits them in anger and annoyance.
"You idiots!" She shouted.
"Oww… The hell was that for?" Ragna asked with a groan. "You don't like angel food cake?"
"That's not what I'm mad about!" Meryl shouted before glaring at Ren, Blake, and Tsubaki. "Why didn't you three stop them!?"
"Because they made it behind our backs." Blake sighed.
"We're sorry." Tsubaki apologized. "We left to clean up and when we asked the decoration team to help break up a fight, we heard them laughing and making the cake."
"We tried to walk in, but they forbid us to enter inside." Ren stated.
"Hey, don't be so hard on them." Ragna defended. "We got the job done, right?"
"You two did make a cake, but not what we asked for." Cloud sighed.
"What do you mean?" Jin asked coldly. "Me and my brother made a wonderful birthday cake. So why are you criticizing our culinary skills?"
Everyone simply looked at Ragna and Jin before they all collapse on the floor in utter disbelief, confusing the brothers even more. After they all got back up, Ren holds out an open cook book to their faces.
"Wait… Christmas Cakes and Birthday Cakes are two completely different delicacies?" Jin asked in disbelief.
"And it only took us 17 years to realize this." Ragna added in disbelief.
"You want to know what's sad?" Snake asked.
"Natsu of all people knows the difference between those two." Weiss added, pointing at the dragon faunus. "And he's the dumbest male student in Beacon."
"Hey, I'm not that dumb!" Natsu pouted.
"Don't worry, me and Pyrrha ordered a birthday cake." Yang reassured.
"It'll be here by tomorrow." Pyrrha smiled.
"Thanks you two." Meryl sighed while pinching her nose.
"So, what do we do with that cake?" Neptune asked.
"We eat it!" Nora exclaimed while drooling.
"Wait, Miss Goodwitch said that the teachers are having a faculty Christmas party, right?" Ruby asked.
Auditorium
"That's a big ass cake." Barret admitted as he and the other teachers stare at the cake.
"I wonder who could've brought this here?" Miller questioned while rubbing his chin.
"There's a note." Otacon said as he grabs the note after spotting it.
"May I?" Ozpin asked, holding his hand out as Otacon handed him the note and starts reading it while letting the other teachers read as well.
[Dear Teachers and Staff,
We made this cake and we hope that you'd accept it as a humble token of our appreciation.
Love, Team RWBY, JNPR, NCRS, SSSN, and MJNT.]
Jubei leans towards the cake and sniffs it a few times, causing him to chuckle while his cat ears twitch in amusement. "These kids are more selfless than we thought."
"Well, that was very considerate of them to give us this wonderful dessert." Port laughed.
"Yes, yes. And they have remarkable talents." Oobleck admitted.
"Well, let's not stand there and stare at it." Glynda chuckled.
"Time to dig in!" Barret shouted as he and the other teachers began eating the cake.
The Next Day, Christmas Eve
Blake is currently reading a book in the living room. After spending time with her team for Christmas Eve, Team RWBY thought they might need some time to breathe and save their energy for tomorrow. Her bow twitches, causing her to lower her book and turns over to see Natsu.
"Hey Blake." Natsu greeted. "Sorry if I'm bothering you."
"You're good." Blake reassured as Natsu sits down next to her. "So, what brings you here?"
"I thought you might need some company." Natsu said with a toothy grin. "Plus, everyone else needed a break from what we did today."
"That is true." Blake agreed with a chuckle. "We spent all day outside, playing in the snow and finding gifts for everyone."
"I can't wait for tomorrow." Natsu said. "And I'm excited to see Noel's reaction."
[Play Fairy Tail Theme - Slow Version]
"Me too." Blake smiled before making a serious frown. "Ok, I want to know the real reason why you're here. I know you're here for more than just small talk."
Natsu looks down for a moment before taking a deep breath. "Do you remember what I asked you around the first day of school?"
"Yeah…" Blake answered while slightly glaring at the dragon faunus.
"Well, I was also wondering if this looks familiar?" Natsu asked as he took out his locket.
Blake became surprised after seeing the locket, causing her to slowly take out her locket from her pocket, surprising Natsu.
"You know, I've been meaning to ask you something." Blake confessed as she opens the locket to reveal the photo.
"Wait a minute…" Natsu squinted and leaned in closer to get a good look at the photo. Once he sees it, quickly backs away from it and opened his locket… which has the same photo as well.
"This can't be a coincidence." Blake said as she and Natsu are completely freaked out by this discovery.
"How the heck did we manage to get the same locket and the same picture? This doesn't make any sense." Natsu groaned in annoyance as he tries to think. They carefully took out the photo from the locket and saw the same message [To the best of friends] inside.
"...Blake?" Natsu asked as he and Blake stare at each other in shock and tears in their eyes.
"N-Natsu?" Blake gasped in shock before they embrace each other in a big hug as they start crying.
"Blake… I thought you were killed when the Grimm attacked and when the village was burning down!" Natsu cried.
"I thought I lost you, too." Blake cried back as she continues to hug her long lost cousin tightly. "I-I'm so happy to see you again. I-I missed you."
"I missed you too, Blake." Natsu said, pressing his forehead against Blake's as he gently wipes away her tears from her eyes, prompting Blake to do the same to him. "Wait, what about the other one?"
"I-I don't think I remember his name…" Blake admitted with a frown. "Maybe he didn't make it out of there."
"No, I have a feeling that he's still alive." Natsu said, looking at the picture in his locket. "If we were able to reunite after all of these years, I'm sure we'll reunite with him one day."
"You're right." Blake sniffed while wiping her eyes before realizing something. "Natsu, we can't tell anyone about this."
"Why?" Natsu asked.
"Not only people still don't know that I'm a faunus." Blake started while pointing to her bow, which her cat ears causes it to shuffle slightly. "But it's also because people will react weirdly."
"But what about our friends? Don't you think they deserve to at least know what's going on?" Natsu brought up, causing Blake to cross her arms while she thinks.
"We should think about it and we'll tell them when the time comes." Blake suggested.
"Sure. I'm cool with it." Natsu agreed with a toothy grin before pulling Blake in another hug, causing her to return the hug while both of their lockets are between them, laying on the couch.
[Music Ends]
The Next Day, Christmas Morning
Noel is currently sleeping in Team MJNT's room, wearing a white shirt and blue shorts. As Noel continues to toss and turn, she felt someone shaking her shoulder, causing her to groan in her sleep.
"Five more minutes…" Noel said in her sleep until she felt the same thing again. She turns and slowly opens her eyes to see… "Meryl…?"
"Wake up. I got something to show you." Meryl said, wearing a gray tank top and green shorts. "Put on your slippers and your coat."
"Okay… I'm up…" Noel gets up with a yawn before putting on her slippers and coat on.
After Meryl puts on her winter coat, she began guiding Noel outside of the dorms for Atlas students while covering her eyes. They continue to walk until they walk into the Beacon Dorm.
"Okay, you can open them." Meryl after removing her hands from Noel's eyes, causing the blonde girl to open them.
"Surprise!" Team RWBY, JNPR, NCRS, Jin, Tsubaki Sun, and Neptune, who are in their pajamas, jumped out of hiding. Noel yelps and jump up in the air a bit while covering her mouth.
"Happy Birthday, Noel!" Ruby cheered. "And Merry Christmas!"
"Y-You guys did this… F-For me?" Noel stuttered as her cheeks turn red.
"Of course." Neptune smiled.
Noel stares at her friend before she starts sniffing a bit with watery eyes, causing everyone to panic as Noel cries.
"Y-You guys are the best!" Noel bawled as she jumps towards her friends and pulls them into a group hug.
"We love you Noel." Meryl smiled while wiping Noel's tears. "Come on everyone, let's open our gifts and celebrate. Noel will go first and then the rest of us will go."
Everyone sat down as they all watch Noel opening her gifts: Which consists of a white winter mittens, a blue biker jacket, a cute panda plush, a blue and white plaid scarf, a blue watch, a cookbook, and ammo. After she opened her gifts, everybody start opening theirs.
"H-Here you go, Neptune." Noel said, holding out a gift to him.
"Oh, thanks Noel." Neptune smiled as he grabbed the gift before giving one to her. He opens his gift to see a red t-shirt with a trident head in a shield (his huntsman symbol). "Wow, this looks cool."
"I'm glad you like it." Noel said as she opens her gift, revealing a bracelet with blue and white gems. "Aww it's so pretty! Thank you!" She squealed as she hugs Neptune, who returns the hug.
"Wow, I needed new wristbands for training." Meryl said, putting on wristbands that Snake got her. "Thanks Snake."
"Impressive bandana." Snake said as he puts on a green camo bandana. "Thank you, Meryl."
"Wow, loving the shades you got me, Natsu." Yang grinned and leaned towards him, lowering her new flame-shaped sunglasses with a smirk.
"Glad you like them. I like this jacket. Thanks Yang." Natsu grinned as he's wearing a gold jacket with dragon scales like pattern.
"No problem, handsome~" Yang winked as she kisses his cheek with a giggle.
"Yoo, thanks for the snowboard Blake!" Sun exclaimed while holding a yellow and white striped snowboard.
"And thanks for the book." Blake said, holding a book with the title [Howling at the Moon II].
"Hey, this is not bad." Ragna admitted as he's holding new cleaning tools for his weapons. "Thanks Ruby."
"No problem, Ragna." Ruby giggled while holding a jar of cookies that Ragna baked for her.
"Jaune, is that the hair clip from when we went shopping?" Pyrrha asked, holding the hair clip that Jaune showed her.
"Y-You don't like it?" Jaune gulped while holding a new sword polisher and sharpener.
"No, I like it." Pyrrha smiled as she puts the hair clip on, causing Jaune to smile.
Nora giggles while hugging Ren, which the two are wearing christmas sweaters that they gave to each other.
Jin is currently wearing a scarf that Tsubaki made for him. He smiles at his friend, who is holding a headband with her huntress symbol.
Weiss continues to look at the others around with a plate of cake in hand. She then looks over to see Cloud, twirling a gift card that she gave him.
"Is something wrong, Weiss?" Cloud asked.
"Oh, no. It's just, you don't look satisfied with the gift I gave you." Weiss answered.
"I still like it." Cloud reassured with a smile. "Here you go. Merry Christmas." He handed out a small box to Weiss.
[Play Aerith's Theme - Final Fantasy 7 Advent Children OST]
Weiss took the box and opens it, revealing a snowflake pendant. She lifts up the chain as the pendant opens, revealing a photo of her and Cloud when they were kids. She stares at the gift Cloud gave her in awe while her childhood friend smiles.
"What do you think?" Cloud asked.
Weiss stood up from her seat and uses her other hand to drag Cloud out of the room before they now outside in the Beacon Balcony.
"Let me guess, you're going to scold me." Cloud said, getting ready for what he thinks might happen.
"N-No." Weiss said as she starts to blush. "I-I just want to say thank you. For everything. If I haven't met you, I wouldn't be here, having fun and striving to achieve my dream."
"You're welcome, Weiss." Cloud said, resting a hand on her shoulder with a smile. "And I want to say thank you. I used to be a hot head, but you've helped me learn to think about things carefully and you motivate me whenever I'm down. I wouldn't make it this far if it wasn't for your help."
"And that's another thing I want to say thank you for." Weiss added, twirling her ponytail in embarrassment. "Most guys see me as some pretty princess of a wealthy company, but you see me for who I truly am. I just wish I knew why you do all of these things for me."
"That's because…" Cloud started with a blush on his face before clearing his throat. "This is something I've been meaning to tell you for a long time. I like you, Weiss. I really do."
Weiss' eyes widen as she stares at Cloud. She couldn't believe that her childhood friend ACTUALLY confessed to her. However, she was touched by it as it felt completely honest.
"It's true that you are pretty, but it's who you are on the inside that made me realize how great you are." Cloud confessed. "You're a smart, strong, and kind person who never gives up and wants to make things right."
"C-Cloud…" Weiss spoke up as the two look up to see a mistletoe dangling above them. She looks down as her cheeks are bright red before she starts to walk up to Cloud before giving him a big hug.
Cloud blushes a bit before he wraps his arms around the heiress, returning the hug. The two pulled slightly away from the hug and stare at each other in the eyes: Ice blue meeting sky blue. The two closed their eyes slowly before they kiss each other on the lips with Weiss wrapping her arms around Cloud's neck while he wraps his arms around her waist.
After a minute of kissing, the two pulled away while relaxing their arms during their embrace, locking eyes with one another.
"Wow… That was my first kiss…" Weiss let out a small sigh while smiling.
"Me too." Cloud chuckled lightly as he smiles back. "Wait. Does this mean…?"
"Yes silly." Weiss giggled lightly. "You and I are officially a couple. Though I'm not sure how my father will approve of this."
"Let's keep this a secret for now." Cloud suggested. "Then, when the right time comes, we'll tell them."
"Agreed." Weiss nodded as they hug each other before they pull away and start to make their way back until they noticed everyone staring at them with various reactions: Ruby and Noel have stars in their eyes, Snake, Ragna, Sun, Neptune, and Natsu are smirking, Yang, Nora, and Meryl are giggling, Jin looks unamused, Blake is blushing, and Jaune, Pyrrha, Tsubaki, and Ren are smiling.
"H-How long were you all standing there!?" Weiss shouted in embarrassment.
"For a while." Yang giggled. "Looks like the Ice Queen has finally found her Prince Charming~"
"About damn time." Ragna chuckled.
"Y-You better not tell anyone!" Cloud shouted with a glare.
"Don't get so worked up, we're so happy for you two." Jaune said, holding his hands up.
"And it's okay. Your secret's safe with us." Meryl reassured, causing both Weiss and Cloud to sigh in relief.
"Come on, we still have a party to celebrate." Ruby said as the group start to make their way back to the living room. Ruby looks over and sees that Natsu and Blake have conflicted looks in their eyes. "Blake? Natsu? What's wrong?"
"Guys. There's something we need to tell you." Natsu said as Blake nods in agreement, confusing everyone.
Living Room
"WHAT!?" Everyone shouted in disbelief after Blake and Natsu told them about their recent discovery last night.
"You have got to be kidding me!" Sun shouted.
"You two are cousins!?" Weiss asked.
"How the hell are you two related!?" Ragna exclaimed.
"I know it's a lot to process." Blake sighed. "But it's true. And we're just as confused as we are."
"That's why we want to take some time to continue processing this and hopefully find some more answers." Natsu said, holding Blake's hand as she smiles.
"We understand." Snake nodded with a smile. "We'll let you two figure this out on your own."
"I know it's sudden and strange to find out that you two are cousins." Ruby admitted. "But we're so happy that you two finally reunited."
Natsu and Blake look at their friends, who are smiling at them to give them enough encouragement. This causes them to look at each other for a brief moment before looking at their friends with a smile as they all hold their cups out one by one.
"Merry Christmas!"
(A/N)
And that is it for NCRS' Christmas Special!
I hope that you all enjoy this just as much as I do. What are your favorite moments in this special?
I would like to thank Earth Dragon and The Third Dragneel for helping me with the edits and for the ideas. Especially Earth Dragon since he was the one that inspired me to write this story in the first place.
For those wondering about the premise of this chapter, well it's because Noel's birthday is actually on Christmas according to the Blazblue lore. Plus, it was a lot of fun to do something nice for Noel, especially since she and Neptune finally kiss.
What do you all think of the idea of Natsu and Blake being cousins? The idea came to me about 2 years ago and I was going to reveal it during the Beacon Dance, but I changed it so I can focus on the story for Volume 2. I know it's strange that two faunuses of different traits to be related, but I feel like it wouldn't hurt. But don't worry, more info will be revealed in future chapters.
Since I've been focusing on this story a little too much, I'll be taking a break from NCRS and eventually return to do Volume 3 in Spring of 2020.
Before we end this chapter…
Epilogue
Snow continues to fall in the City of Vale as children are playing in the snow, adults are laughing while drinking hot chocolate. Meanwhile, Cinder, Hazama, Mercury, Zeref, Emerald, Sephiroth, Ocelot, Cardin, and Liquid are standing on a rooftop of a building, looking up in the sky.
"All in all, I call this year a success." Cinder said with pride.
"I was honestly worried that we weren't going to pull it off." Zeref admitted before chuckling. "I guess Christmas Miracles do exist, after all."
"Success?" Cardin asked in anger. "You called the past few months a success!?"
"Now, now Cardin." Hazama said, holding a finger up. "Just because everything didn't turn out the way we wanted, that won't affect our real plan."
"But what about the kids?" Emerald brought up. "They really made a mess of things."
"Emerald does make a valid point." Liquid agreed, placing a finger underneath his chin. "While they're still useful to us, I can't help but get a headache everytime they get in our way."
"Let's not forget that a lot of faunuses didn't make it out of that tunnel." Sephiroth mentioned with his usual tone.
"Yes, we also lost a lot of Paladins and weaponry too in the process." Ocelot added.
"Do you two still think that the White Fang will still listen to us?" Mercury asked.
"No, they won't." The villains turn around to see a tall, male faunus with black bull horns, red hair, a white grimm mask, and a black and red suit. "But they'll listen to me."
"Ahh, the bull has finally arrived." Hazama said, clapping his hands.
"Be sure to get everyone ready by next year, Adam." Cinder instructed.
"Don't worry." Adam reassured with a grin. "We'll get what we deserve, no matter what."
Next Time: The Vytal Festival