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in. I was aghast as Goodwitch described the resolution to the case- a word she seemed to take issue with.

"Can anything truly be resolved? Complications always set in. How many times have we heard, 'It's simple?' Nothing is simple. Such is the nature of the world in which we live.

"Whenever we think we understand, believe we finally have a handle on things, a new element is suddenly introduced to make everything complicated once more. So... what is the secret? The secret to simplicity? Can there be a pure, simple life?

"Could it be that our appetites- our desires- are undermining us? Have we set the cart before our horse?"

Chapter XXII

Stories Around the Campfire

Three days passed before Nichole's funeral service, but Nicholas was still sequestered in his house, where Jaune and Nichole's pictures were placed prominently on the mantelpiece. Michelle and Ruby arrived earlier than anyone. "Nick... are you okay?"

Nick remained silent in his seat, looking at the pictures.

Michelle eyed him with pity. "Okay. Can you... take this for me?" She produced a syringe, and was about to administer its contents with precision when Nick raised a hand.

"No... I don't want it," Nick shook his head listlessly. "I don't want to be... high. I want to... be there. In my totality. For both of them. The day I bury my wife... just after my son."

His voice began to crack. "Jaune... Jaune's grave is still new... grass was just starting to grow on it!"

Ruby nodded sympathetically. "There are... terrible things in the world. Things we don't want to tell our children about- we'd rather they remain innocent as long as they can. Nichole... fell victim to a greater power a long time ago- when she was innocent, and trusting. Nichole... isn't the one who did all this- at least, not the Nichole you knew."

"I know," Nick nodded. "It wasn't her... it was that woman. The woman I saw. That filthy, burned hair..."

"She's gone," Ruby assured her. "That woman is gone... forever."

Nick nodded. "...And she took everything I love with her."

Ruby closed her eyes. "Nick... I want to tell you what happened, right before Nichole died. I get that it's tricky to really take in everything that's happened... that Nichole would drug you to keep her actions secret... but before she died, she confronted the full, horrible truth of what she'd done- to you, and to Jaune. It was agony, but... in the end, she found peace. In her last moments, she saw Jaune. She kept saying how much she loved him, and... in the end, I think Jaune welcomed her with open arms."

Nick trembled. "Thank you... thank you, for telling me."

Ruby nodded gently. "...It's time. If you'll have it... I'd be honored to drive you."

Nick nodded, rising to his feet. "Where are my shoes? Nichole... always found my..."

He began to break down again, allowing Michelle and Ruby to guide him to the front door.

XXXX

The service centered around a large dinner for the various mourners in black. Even Cardin and Sky appeared- as did Yatsuhashi and Neon, though Yats was keeping a close eye on his wife, lest she accidentally do something insensitive. At the moment, however, she was content to stand in the corner, staring in wonder at her shiny, black shoes.

Coco had brought Hazel, who was characteristically silent, helping himself to some corn and salad. He picked up a second bowl and headed into the living room, where he spied Coco talking to Yats, and cleared his throat to get her attention. He presented her with the second bowl- she glanced at her own.

"No, no, it's for Nicholas," Hazel corrected. "I think he might be more open to receiving it from you than myself."

Coco nodded and carried it over to Nick, who was sitting with Fei Wukong and Weiss Schnee- the only Schnee to attend.

"Were there invitations?" Weiss was wondering. "Or is everyone just showing up?"

"In times like this, people come together naturally," Fei shrugged. "It's a time to reach out, and bare our humanity. I remember my father's death- nearly a hundred people attended his funeral."

In the absence of Coco, Yats found himself before Sun, looking solemnly out a window. "You ever... feel like the town is falling apart?" he wondered out loud. "Pyrrha thinks this is all her fault. Jaune... Jacob. I don't know, maybe it's me she blames- she'd never say it. What do you think, Yats? Could we have caused all this?"

Yats shook his head, placing a hefty, comforting hand on his shoulder. "Pyrrha will come back- she just needs some time to clear her head a bit. Shadows like these are passing- fleeting, and before you know it, the night is over, and the day is all the brighter for it."

Joseph Winchester arrived a little late, leaving his hat at the door but retaining the rest of his uniform as he made his way towards the stairs, where Ruby, Yang, and Oobleck were holding their own conversation. "Welcome home, Doctor," he greeted Oobleck.

"I am glad to be back, Major," Oobleck returned his greeting and accepted his handshake.

"I'm glad to see you fully recovered," Joseph smiled.

"Never underestimate the recuperative powers of Southern Vacuo," Oobleck nodded.

"And how are the sisters doing?" Joseph asked, turning to them.

"We were placing bets on the brothers Port," Yang smirked, thumbing to the kitchen where the school principal, Peter Port, was in a heated argument with the town mayor, Ryan Port.

"Doesn't she feed you?" Peter came out swinging.

"You're just jealous!" Ryan scoffed.

"Jealous?" Peter gasped, affronted. "I wouldn't spend my time changing diapers!"

"Those two are a riot," Yang grinned.

"Indeed," Joseph agreed. "And you, Ms. Rose- what's next for you?"

"Please, Ruby," Ruby repeated her usual refrain. "And... well, tough to say. I've got a case I'm still looking into-" Uncle Qrow, said her body language to Yang, "but I do have a few weeks of vacation time stocked up- might be about time to cash it in!"

"Splendid," Joseph smiled. "For starters, I would be honored if you would join me a night of fishing."

Yang narrowed her eyes, but eased up when she felt Ruby's hand on her shoulder. "Sounds good to me, Major."

On the other side of the room, Neon had finally approached Yats, interrupting his conversation with Sun to ask, "Yats, can you see my panties through my shoes?"

Sun nearly choked on his drink, but Yats simply sighed. "...Pardon?"

"I was looking at my shoes earlier, and I thought I could see the reflection! Do you think boys are looking up my skirt?"

Yats took a deep breath, hunching over and looking at her shiny black shoes. "Don't worry, Neon- I can't see a thing."

"Okay!" Neon turned and pranced away, happy as a clam. Sun took a long drink of soda.

On the sofa, Nick was finally talking to Weiss and Fei. "Sun used to visit Jaune almost every day, you know. You know what they did? One time, it was... it was late. They were watching a movie- they had a big bowl of popcorn between them. They were young, and they made this promise to each other- that they'd remain friends forever... no matter what. A bond that would last through... anything, even... death." He was beginning to tremble again- Fei reached out and took his hand.

Nick nodded. "I need... I need to remember."

Back in the kitchen, Peter was making another play against his brother. "She's cursed, I tell you!"

"You shut your trap!" Ryan lashed out, grabbing Peter's collar and commencing a very awkward old-man fight that took Yatsuhashi minimal effort to break up.

"You stay out of this, Yats!" Ryan objected as Sun slipped in behind him and began nudging them away from the food table. "I'm gonna stick his head in the gutter where it belongs!"

Yang sighed- hilarious as this all was, it was probably time for the sheriff to intervene. "Alright, you two, knock it off! Remember where you are, would ya? Why we're here?"

Ruby laughed from a safe distance- she'd managed to corner her father. "They're having fun, huh?"

"Oh, yeah," Tai chuckled. "They've had this feud going on for fifty years now. God knows how it started. I think there was a girl involved, and a car... y'know, I doubt even they remembered exactly what happened."

"Ryan's got himself a new flame," reported Michelle, slipping into their conversation.

"Isn't this his fifth marriage?" Tai laughed.

"Seventh by my count," Michelle chortled. "Hey, at least his weddings are great."

Tai chuckled. "Good ol' Ryan- getting married again to someone about a hundred years younger."

Ruby smiled blissfully as Yang returned to her side. "Yang, I'm really gonna miss this place."

Yang beamed at her, pulling her into a tight, one-armed hug.

XXXX

Peter Port's troubles continued only hours later, when he found himself approached in his office by Yatsuhashi and Dr. Oobleck. "You're saying you want me to admit a 35-year old woman to the senior class?"

Yatsuhashi nodded. "I understand that this is hardly normal, but..."

Luckily or unluckily, Neon chose that moment to enter in a resized school uniform with an armful of binders and books. "Yats, how much longer? Class is starting!"

"Almost there, Neon, just a few more minutes," Yats assured her.

Neon shrugged. "Fine by me- oh! Guess what! Cheerleading tryouts are today!"

"Wonderful," Yats grunted. "Perhaps you ought to practice your splits?"

"Right!"

She pranced off, leaving Oobleck and Yats to finish things up with Peter.

XXXX

Ruby went back to her hotel room and began packing for her trip with Joseph Winchester- she was folding a raincoat when she heard a knock on her door. "It's unlocked!"

In walked Weiss Schnee, smiling warmly at her. "Customer relations- I hope everything has been satisfactory during your stay, Ms. Rose?"

"No complaints!" Ruby beamed with a thumbs-up on her left hand.

"...You're leaving already?" Weiss asked, spying the packing.

"Nah, not yet- I'm going fishing with the Major."

"...And then?"

"Well, yeah... I can't stay here forever."

Weiss breathed heavily. "You're a real jerk, you know- save my life, then break my heart."

Ruby glanced at her. "I already told you, right? I don't involve-"

"Yes, I know, I know, I'm still young," Weiss cut her off.

"And involved in a case I was working on," Ruby pressed.

Weiss thought she detected a sadness in Ruby's silver eyes. "Did... did someone hurt you once?"

"No," Ruby shook her head. "...I hurt him- and I won't let anything like that happen again."

Weiss tilted her head slightly, unable to visualize Ruby hurting someone else like that. "What, did he die?"

"...Yes, he did. I'll tell you the story, if you want."

Weiss was taken aback- she didn't even know what to say.

It was Ruby's turn to breath deep. "His name was Makoto Naegi, and he was a key witness in a major crime. It was my job to protect him- 24 hours a day. Me and my partner- we watched him like a hawk. Her name was Emerald Sustrai. We were thick as thieves- or, so I thought.

"We knew someone had it out for Makoto, and when the attempt on his life came, I... wasn't ready... because I loved him. He died in my arms. I got hurt pretty badly, and Emerald was committed to Graham's Memorial Mental Institution. Need to hear any more?"

Ruby's voice remained steady through it all- neither her nor her voice so much as trembled, but Weiss could still see the hurt in her eyes. She shook her head.

Ruby approached her. "I do like you, Weiss. I care about you... a lot. I'll always consider you a friend."

"Friendship- the foundation of any lasting relationship," Weiss smiled.

Ruby laughed. "I do like being quoted."

Weiss looked down, then back up. "How about this, Rose? One of these days, before you know it, I'll be a huntress too, and when that day comes, you'd best watch out!"

Ruby smiled. "I'll be counting the days."

Weiss turned and moved towards the door, before glancing back. "The only problem with you, Ruby... you're too perfect."

XXXX

Cardin examined himself closely in the mirror being held by Adam- he was testing out the suit and hair styling he'd picked out for his meeting with the Schnees. "Alright, we are looking good!"

"Adam just got that suit," Velvet reflected, looking notably unamused. "It was a tad tighter on him."

"Yeah, we shouldn't let clothes like these go to waste," Cardin smirked. He picked out a couple ties. "Alright, I'm no good with this fancy crap- what do you think? Green or yellow? I'm sure the Schnees notice things like this."

"You look fine, Cardin," Velvet assured him. "Maybe we can go out later- I need some time out of this house. I'll get all dressed up..."

"And just leave Adam here?" Cardin pointed out.

Velvet groaned. "I'll hire a sitter, or something- I will do anything to get out of this place!"

"Don't worry so much," Cardin replied. "I'm gonna get this job with the Schnees, and everything's gonna be alright. I'll take care of you in ways you've never even dreamed. Hang in there, and let me do my thing."

Velvet was tempted to point out that letting him do his thing had gotten them into this mess in the first place, but he silenced her with his lips. She went along with it somewhat less enthusiastically than usual- he either didn't notice or didn't care.

XXXX

Yang went out to grab some things at the general store before heading back to her office at the station- where her thoughts were completely derailed by the sight of Raven Branwen sitting on her desk. "Hello, Yang."

Yang maintained herself rather well, considering the circumstances. "You look pretty good for a dead woman."

Raven simply shrugged.

"I hope you've at least told Dad."

"We've been reunited, yes."

"I hope you don't expect a warm welcome from me."

"Not particularly," Raven shook her head. "If anything, I thought you'd have a few questions."

"A couple," Yang nodded.

"Do you suspect me of something?"

"I might- we'll see how you answer. Maybe you oughtta call your lawyer."

"I'm fine," Raven rolled her eyes as she rose to her feet. "I've got nothing to hide."

"You'd better not," Yang agreed through narrow eyes. "Okay, for starters... the hell have you been?"

"Testing my fortune- or, perhaps, my guardian angel. If you believe in such things."

Yang thought back to everything she'd experienced the past few weeks. "Honestly, I'm not sure what I believe anymore."

"I never believed in them myself," Raven shrugged. "Until... one saved my life. I was home the night of the fire. I got a call on my scroll from a number I didn't recognize. He asked me to meet him in the mill's drying shed. I didn't get to where I am by being a fool- I took a gun. The only person I saw was that girl... the rabbit faunus..."

"Velvet Scarlatina."

"Yes, her. She was tied up inside. Things get fuzzy... I think there was a bomb. From there, I only have impressions- walls of fire, screaming... even I don't know exactly how I got out, but the next thing I knew, I was wandering through the forest. I knew someone was after me now, and I was... scared. More scared than I've ever been in my life."

Despite herself, Yang found herself drawn into the story, slipping into her chair as Raven continued.

"I kept moving through the woods- it's all I could do. Finally, the sun started coming up, and things started looking familiar. I knew where I was- I recognized it from childhood- I was flooded with the memories. A small pool, watched over by a single white sycamore tree... and I thought, This is what heaven is. I knew where to go- and within hours, I'd found my old summer cabin. It was incredible- I'd somehow traveled miles in a single night. How else can I explain it? My guardian angel saved me."

"How did you eat?" Yang followed up.

"We'd always kept a well-stocked pantry," Raven shrugged. "I went in and opened up a can of tuna. And then... I waited. I kept my gun with me and waited for whoever was trying to kill me. I refused to sleep- any moment could have been my last."

"Then why come back?"

Raven fixed her daughter with a piercing gaze. "...I ran out of tuna."

XXXX

Neptune entered the police station's lobby to find Nora changing a light bulb. He struggled not to blush when he remembered the wild screams with which he'd made his previous departure. "Okay, good news- I quit smoking!"

"Yeah, that's great- what're you doing here?"

"Well, I wanted to see you," Neptune shrugged. "To... well, to talk about our baby."

Ren had been about to step into the lobby, but upon hearing what was going on, he hesitated, holding back and listening.

"...Our baby?"

"Look, Nora, I've been thinking," Neptune continued, climbing up the opposite side of the ladder Nora was using. "I've realized that I've been a giant douche this whole time. I think what I need is... someone to care about. Someone more important than me. That in mind, I'm sure you can see why parenthood is suddenly looking pretty good."

"Parenthood?"

"Fatherhood."

Fox entered and pointedly ignored them, heading deeper in- only to be taken aback when he caught Ren eavesdropping.

"Of course, I don't really have any skills here, so I've enlisted myself in the Happy Helping Hand program. Part-time caretaker to some poor homeless kid."

Nora widened her eyes, struggling to maintain balance as she looked between him and the light socket. "Wait, are you the same Neptune that works at From Dust Til Dawn?"

"Of course!" Neptune nodded. "And... after thinking about it, I'm certain the baby is mine."

Fox stared as Ren finally made his move. "Nora, Neptune, I'd like to say something."

"Ren!" Nora beamed.

"I understand that we're all in a rather difficult position. Admittedly, I never had any siblings, but my mother did emphasize the lengths to which she'd go to avoid drama while pregnant with me. So, until we know for sure exactly whose fish made it to the end of the river, we ought to at least try and be friends."

Neptune's eyes narrowed as Ren and Nora's lips very nearly met- Nora seemed to notice and pulled away. Ren didn't object, instead extending a hand. Neptune stared at it for nearly a full minute before shaking. To his credit, he didn't squeeze, but he did let go rather quickly.

"Good," Ren nodded. "I'll see you."

He walked into the hallway, where he was intercepted by Fox. "Ren! Are you crazy?!"

"Don't worry, Fox, I know what I'm doing," Ren assured him. "...Though, do you think I went too far?"

Fox took a deep breath. "You and I need to have a long chat, Ren..."

XXXX

Yang looked up from some paperwork when she heard a knock on her door, followed by the voice of her sister. "Yang?"

"Ruby!" she beamed, looking up.

Ruby looked around. "Well, I guess this is goodbye. All that's left is my fishing trip with Major Winchester."

"Yup," Yang nodded, popping the P. "And that's why I got you this."

She produced a paper bag and handed it over. Ruby's eyes widened. "Oh, you didn't have to..." She fell silent, opening it up and reaching inside. She beamed as she pulled out a small fishing lure. "Yang!"

"When the steelheads are running upstream," Yang smiled, "sex is the only thing they've got on their mind. This right here is a green butt skunk- breaks their concentration."

"Green butt skunk!" Ruby repeated, her eyes filled with wonder.

"Tied it myself," Yang smiled indulgently. "You pick up a few tips and tricks, hanging around Dad."

"I... I don't know what to say!"

"Hold up!" Yang raised a hand. "I've got something else for ya!"

She reached into her pocket and produced a small wad of paper. Ruby unfurled it to find a patch depicting a pine tree standing in front of a crystal blue sky. "Yang..."

"VDF patch," Yang smiled. "You don't have any choice in the matter- you're one of us now."

Ruby's smile was wide, and she looked like she might be tearing up. "Yang... I'm honored past the ability to express myself!"

"Just keep that close," Yang patted her shoulder. "You ever need some extra help, we'll be - OOF!"

She was interrupted as Ruby pulled her into a hug tight enough to knock the wind from her lungs. She smiled and returned it, gently patting her on the back.

XXXX

Neptune was gone, and Fox, Ren, and Nora had lined up in the lobby as the sisters made their exit. Ruby smiled, shaking Fox's hand first. "Fox Alistair- if I'm ever lost, I hope you're the one they send to find me."

"May the wind be always at your back," Fox smiled, inclining his head slightly.

Ruby moved to Nora. "Nora Valkyrie- your bravery is beaten only by the size of your heart. I wish we had more like you back at the guild."

Nora blew her nose loudly on a handkerchief Ren provided. "I wish... you didn't... have to GOOOOO!"

Ruby turned to Ren. "Lie Ren... good luck. With everything."

Ren smiled, stepping forward and pulling her into a hug, giving her the chance to whisper, "I'm pulling for you!"

They were all distracted by the door opening and revealing a man and a woman, both in uniform. The man- dark-skinned, with hair tied into a professional ponytail, spoke first. "Sheriff Xiao Long?"

"That's me," Yang agreed, raising an eyebrow.

"I'm Flynt Coal, with the Hunter's Guild."

"Flynt?" Ruby asked, surprised. "What're you doing here?"

Flynt sighed heavily. "I hate to do this, Rubes, but... effective immediately, without pay, you are suspended from the Hunter's Guild."

Everybody's jaws dropped- with the exception of Ruby, who simply closed her eyes and nodded in resignation.

XXXX

The meeting quickly moved to Yang's office, primarily between Ruby, Yang, Flynt, and the woman- who Yang quickly learned was Caroline Cordovin.

"I'm guessing you already have some idea why I'm here," Flynt began.

"Maybe she does, but I don't," Yang interjected furiously.

"Internal Affairs," Ruby cut her off.

"The ones who watch the Watchmen," Flynt summed up.

"He's here because I crossed into Mistral."

"That was directly related to the Arc case!" Yang objected.

"Not without letting us know!" Caroline interjected- the only one present more hostile than Yang.

"...What's the official charge, Flynt?" Ruby asked calmly.

"Misfeasance."

"Mis-what now?" Yang asked.

"The unlawful execution of an act that would otherwise be lawful," Flynt summed up.

"In this case, rescuing Weiss," Ruby nodded.

"...Partly," Flynt admitted. "We've also got some allegations bouncing around about your motives and methods. We're still waiting on the evidence. We'll meet in an hour. Alone."

XXXX

Cardin paced around the penthouse of the Austin Hotel nervously, hoping he didn't sweat and ruin his fancy suit. "Alright, think, Winchester, think..."

He was interrupted by the appearance of Willow's secretary. "Mrs. Schnee wasn't expecting you," she announced. "She said we might be able to set something up next month."

Cardin groaned. "Tell him it's about the tape he got yesterday! It's urgent!"

The secretary huffed and re-entered Willow's office.

Weiss circled a corner, and snorted when she saw Cardin's state of dress. "It seems a little late for Halloween, wouldn't you say? What are you supposed to be, a lounge lizard?"

Cardin scoffed as he looked her up and down- she was carrying a basket full of some sort of fabric. "Ain't you supposed to be in school?"

"I have other matters to attend to," Weiss shrugged off. "You?"

"I'm trying to get a meeting with your mom."

"Why?" Weiss asked, tilting her head as she drew nearer.

"A job. It's personal business."

"Hmm," Weiss hummed. "This is the first I've heard of this job opening."

"Ah, you know me," Cardin waved aside her concern. "I just gotta talk to her."

"A flawless plan." It was Weiss's turn to scoff. "Okay, what are you really up to, Cardin?"

Cardin pointedly looked the other way.

"Have it your way," Weiss sighed. "Here, count to ten."

She handed him the basket- he accepted it with a look of confusion, watching as she entered her mother's office. "Alright... one... two..." He casually tossed the basket from hand to hand, twirled it around his arm, and pulled off a couple other minor tricks. "Three... four... five..."

The door opened, and Weiss emerged, retaking her basket. "Rule number one of business, Cardin- it's not what you know, it's who you know."

Cardin nodded. "Alright... I owe you one."

He headed to the door Weiss had left ajar and entered, leaving Weiss standing at the hallway's corner.

Willow was sitting behind her desk, still looking far more ragged than was usual- she had a pipe clenched between her teeth giving off unnatural amounts of smoke. She barely acknowledged Cardin's presence.

"Look, I know you're a busy woman- I can respect that, so I'll get right to the point."

From the outside, Weiss heard a buzzing noise and her mother's voice. "Someone bring a fly swatter- there's a pest in my office!"

"Hey! Hey, you're making a big mistake! Let me go!"

Seconds later, a couple of large, burly men appeared, forcing Cardin out of the office and down the hall.

Weiss intervened. "That will do- leave him alone, he's a friend from school."

The men shrugged, and dropped him- he quickly pulled himself off as Weiss drove them both away.

Cardin pulled out a cigarette. "Tell your boss that tape was not the original!"

"You alright?" Weiss asked as Cardin lit up.

"Yeah, I'm fine."

Weiss tilted her head, as though seeing him in a new light. "Hmm... I can't imagine what this is all about, Winchester."

"You saving my ass twice?" Cardin shrugged. "They oughtta nominate you for sainthood after that." Weiss chuckled, and he allowed a smile onto his own face. "You need anything from me, just give me a shout."

"I could settle for some ice cream right now."

XXXX

"What was the purpose of your first visit to the Widow's Web?" Flynt asked, Caroline at his side.

"To gather information about the murder of Jaune Arc- from Corsac Albain," Ruby answered easily- she was on her own.

"Then you lured him back across the border," Caroline pointed out, eyes narrowed, "where he was shot in the arm while being arrested, and murdered in the hospital that night!"

"Corsac was a key witness in the case," Ruby explained. "Nichole Arc confessed to the murder, and I don't see any reason to doubt her. Am I being held responsible for his death?"

"You're not being held responsible for anything yet," Flynt shook his head.

"Let's talk about your second visit," Caroline pressed.

"That was to rescue Weiss Schnee from her kidnappers."

"The Malachite twins- both of whom are dead," Flynt pointed out.

"Crossing the border without contacting Mistralian authorities!" Caroline snarled. "Regardless of the circumstances, that is a serious breach!"

"I know," Ruby agreed. "What I don't know- what I want to know- is if the Guild is holding me accountable for those deaths?"

"That's what we're here to find out," Flynt responded. "The key issue here is Tyrian Callows- Caroline was involved in a sting operation to weed him out."

"A six-month set-up," Caroline agreed. "Then one night, a disrespectful brat marches in, Tyrian disappears, one man and two women die, and the cocaine used for the setup is stolen!"

"I don't know about any cocaine," Ruby countered, "but you've miscounted. There were three deaths that night- Tyrian killed Miltia Malachite and Shane Corman. Melanie's death was in self-defense."

"Alright," Flynt nodded, "so what we have is breaking jurisdiction, three corpses, and international drug trafficking."

"I confess to crossing the border," Ruby agreed. "I told you how I was involved with the deaths- not at all, in two of them. And... Flynt, I hope you know me better than to think I'd involve myself with drugs."

"I have to stay impartial," Flynt pointed out heavily. "All I can trust is proof. The DEA will be investigating- you have 24 hours to put together your defense. Until then... I'm sure it goes without saying that I need your gun and badge."

Ruby nodded heavily, reaching into her holster and producing her gun and sliding it across the table, her badge at its side. "You take care of my baby, okay?"

Caroline opened the door behind her, and she traded places with Yang- they slid their fingers down the sides of their faces as they passed.

"Take a seat," Flynt offered.

"I'll stand, if it's all the same to you," Yang crossed her arms.

Flynt shrugged. "Alright, let's open with this- even if we find Ruby guilty, nothing will be held against you. I get that you're sisters, but your full cooperation would be greatly appreciated."

Yang nodded absently. "Well, if I understand the law, you'll need some fancy papers to get a full statement from me. Extradition, a subpoena... if you don't have that stuff, I'm gonna ask you to take your cooperation and shove it up your ass."

Flynt sighed. "And what good will that do your sister?"

"Let me make this clear," Yang spoke loudly and concisely. "I get it if you wanna say I'm biased, but even if I'd just met her last month, I'd still say she's the best lawkeeper I've ever known. She's earned the respect of well over half the town since she arrived, and never given them reason to take it back. So, I don't know what information you've got or where you got it from, but it's dead fucking wrong."

Flynt nodded. "Alright- you've made your position clear. Thanks for your time."

"Of course," Yang nodded. "Help yourself to some coffee on the way out."

XXXX

The newest question Yatsuhashi never thought he'd need to ask- how did he end up watching Beacon High's cheerleader tryouts?

"Aaaand, Neon!" called one of the judges.

Neon leapt forward, grinning, eliciting a surprised look from the judges, both of whom knew her- by reputation, if nothing else.

"Neon Katt!" she bowed extravagantly.

The judges glanced at each other, then back at her. "Okay, let's start you off with some tumbling!"

Neon eagerly assumed the mat and proceeded to backflip, cartwheel, and somersault from one end of the field to the other, seemingly in one fluid motion and without breaking a sweat.

Several prospective cheerleaders watched in awe as she popped back up right in front of Sky Lark, who looked absolutely bewildered. "Mind if I throw you?" she asked eagerly.

"Sounds like a laugh," he chuckled, not at all convinced.

Then she called out "CORKSCREW!", picked him up, and threw him a little higher than the trees, sending him flipping through the air and ultimately crashing into the volleyball net.

XXXX

Velvet, meanwhile, was busy brushing Adam's teeth when her scroll began to ring. "...I'm not answering that," she muttered. "All day, and not one word..."

She finally gave in as the scroll kept ringing. "Hello, Scarlatina Nursing Home!... Yes, that's wonderful, Cardin, I'm glad to hear things went so well. Sounds like a wonderful meeting." A long sigh. "Yes... yes, I still love you, but... I've been thinking... we have to do something with Adam. Put him in a home, or something. No, it's not worth it- I don't want the money! I want my life back!"

She faltered when she saw Adam's wheelchair- a clear foot closer to her than it had been, Adam's head rocking ever so slightly back and forth. "Cardin... he moved. Adam... he moved!"

XXXX

Coco milled about her diner, looking very upset as she folded up all her fancy tablecloths. "What's all this about?" she heard her mother ask.

"Well, the big, fancy food critic's spoken," Coco muttered. "God, I feel like an idiot."

"Oh, it wasn't that bad," Sr. objected.

"Don't even try to tell me how to feel, Mom," Coco scoffed. "This business is my everything- I want to keep my regulars. Why should I care about getting anyone new? Good thing I don't- not after..." She put on a high, snooty voice. "'If you want local color, stop in. If you're after good food, find somewhere else.'"

"It was 'local charm,' not 'local color,'" Coco Sr. pointed out.

"Oh, good, you memorized that garbage," Coco rolled her eyes.

"Not 'memorized' so much as 'wrote,'" Sr. corrected.

Coco stood stiff, slowly turning to her mother. "...What?"

"You might as well know- it's about time we ended this melodrama. You want to know who Ash Jenkins is? You're looking at her."

Coco stared at her, her hands starting to tremble in rage. "Well, I guess that explains your visit- come over to run me into the ground, huh?"

"Of course not!" Sr. objected. "I wanted to give you a good review! This is just not a good restaurant! Would you ask me to violate my professional ethics?"

"Fuck your ethics, I'm your daughter!" Coco fired back.

"Some standards must prevail!"

"Like the standards of common decency and kindness?" Coco asked scathingly. "Or can they go fuck themselves in your line of work? I wouldn't do this to a dog, much less my own daughter!"

"Overreacting as usual," Sr. scoffed.

"Oh, really?" Coco hissed. "You know what? Maybe so. But it's my overreaction. The pain I feel is my pain. And from now on, none of this is any of your damn business."

"Be sensible!"

"This is the most sensible I've been in my life. Get out of my restaurant. I'm done with you- get out, and don't bother coming back."

"Jr-"

"Don't let the door hit you in the ass on the way out."

Sr. eyed her for a little longer, before turning and stalking off, leaving her daughter very much wishing Yats was here right now.

XXXX

Hazel and Mike Watts, on the other hand, were at the Widow's Web, heading to the office. "Need I remind you, Hazel, that I'm a recently married man?" Mike asked nervously.

"To a wealthy woman," Hazel agreed. "Don't worry- we're here for business. This is a wonderful opportunity for us all."

"I'm not going to steal my wife's money!"

"Who said anything about stealing? You're a computer expert, Mike. Play things right, she won't notice a thing. If you don't... how long do you think she'll stay your wife?"

Mike was already remarkably nervous when the door opened, revealing Tyrian on the other side, grinning manically. "Ah, so this is the man you told me about, Edgeworth?"

"Mike, Tyrian Callows," Hazel introduced. "Our first meeting was interesting- he had a knife to my throat- may well have pulled it if he didn't find my prosecutor's badge."

"...Very lucky," Mike nodded.

"Tyrian, this is Mike Burns- goes by Mike Watts nowadays. Or, you could just call him the Professor. The things he can do with money would make the IRS blush."

"Splendid!" Tyrian beamed, prancing over and thumping Mike on the back. "As it happens, a recent investment fell through, so I'm in a somewhat... vulnerable position right now. We need 125 thousand lien ASAP!"

Mike nodded slowly. "I... I understand. I think I can do that. I've been involved with some... prestigious organizations. I can launder a hundred thousand lien in my sleep."

Tyrian examined him closely- uncomfortably- then broke into laughter. "You know what to say to get my interest!"

He snapped his fingers, and Caroline Cordovin entered the room, looking at Tyrian with clear distaste as she produced a briefcase.

"Hey, Carrie, meet the Professor- our new broker!" Tyrian cheered.

Caroline moved to the desk and opened the case, revealing a large amount of cocaine.

"I'm sure you can handle this much, can't you, Mike?" Hazel asked pointedly.

"...Of course," Mike nodded, struggling to hide his sinking heart.

Tyrian broke into more laughter. "I love this guy! Take him to the casino- I heard you hav an almost scientific procedure for craps and roulette!"

"I... I don't gamble anymore-"

"Oh, I insist!" Tyrian interrupted, slinging his arm around him. "I want my new best buddy to enjoy life!"

"I... I suppose I can give it a try..."

"That's the spirit! Hazel, take him!"

Hazel obeyed, leaving Tyrian and Caroline alone.

Caroline voiced her concerns immediately. "I don't like him. He's too nervous."

"We don't need much," Tyrian waved aside. "He can botch this up as much as he wants, as long as I get to bury Ruby Rose."

Caroline sighed. "I'll call you when I'm done. I'm putting it in the car- it won't take much. Just a trace."

Tyrian's smile was beginning to vanish. "I want that bitch crucified!"

XXXX

The moon was high in the sky when Yang awoke to the sound of someone rummaging around outside her house. She quickly grabbed a flashlight and a gun. She slowly moved to the front door and opened it- to find a nearly unconscious Blake Belladonna on the other side. The second the door opened, she fell in- Yang's quick movements were all that kept her from colliding with the ground. "Blake?"

"Yang... help..."

She was clearly battered, beaten, and bruised- Yang guided her to a sofa and lowered her into it. She quickly lay next to her, pressing their foreheads together, followed by their lips.

XXXX

Ruby and Joseph had a pleasant fishing trip, and decided to camp out for the night- it didn't take long for Joseph to start a fire to cook some fish. Eventually, conversation turned to the events of the day.

"Well, I did what I thought was right, and now I have to face the consequences. That's... really all there is to it," Ruby shrugged.

"Such is our lot," Joseph nodded.

Ruby glanced around, as if to make sure they were alone. A silly act, if she really thought about it. "Major... I can't stop thinking about Cinder. If she's... real."

Joseph nodded. "I understand- I've been plagued by similar thoughts since that horror was revealed to us."

Ruby felt her hair standing on end. "I... try to imagine her out there... incarnate. Looking for another... vessel."

Joseph gazed at her over the campfire. "There are powerful forced of evil out there, Ms. Rose. It is the fate of some to face great darkness. All we can do is choose how to react. To choose fear is to become more vulnerable. Or, we could resist with the gifts given to us- gifts the likes of which you possess."

Joseph glanced around, and spoke in a hushed tone. "...Have you ever heard of the White Lodge?"

"The... White Lodge?" Truthfully, something about the term tickled at Ruby's memory, though she couldn't place why. "Hmm... can't say I know exactly what you're talking about..."

Joseph nodded, his lips pursed.

Ruby downed some coffee, and rose to her feet. "If you don't mind, I need a moment to myself- we all gotta answer nature's call. Back as soon as I can- I'd like to hear more about this... White Lodge."

Joseph smiled and gave a thumbs-up as he bit into some fish.

Ruby headed into the trees for some privacy.

Joseph heard the hooting of an owl, and looked up to see the creature blinking at him overhead, just as Ruby heard and saw the same.

A bright white light appeared in their clearing- out of Ruby's view, but firmly in Joseph's. "RUBY!" he called out, a note of panic in his voice. "RUBY!"

Ruby reoriented herself and dashed back to the clearing. "Major! Major Winchester!"

She couldn't see him anywhere- she attempted to look to the light, but found it too blinding. Nevertheless, she moved- running towards it. "MAJOR!"

She continued her sprint, but the light was receding- finally vanishing, leaving Ruby bewildered and alone in a small clearing, consisting entirely of a small pool of a bizarre, gold-colored liquid, overseen by a white sycamore tree.

XXXX

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