Disclaimer: I don't own RWBY and Tales of Berseria they are the rightful property of RoosterTeeth and Bandai Namco.
Italics are thoughts
Velvet's character short: Oath
(Location: Atlas General Hospital Solitus continent Kingdom of Atlas Remnant)
Velvet fell again, panting as her body was feeling so weak. It hasn't been that long since she woke up from her coma. Six months has really taken a toll on her, her strength was gone so she needed to get back on shape. So she was taking some training to sharpen her skills before Weiss decides to make her move before they leave Atlas and head for Mistral. Of course this was all a secret, they couldn't know she was training due to her condition. Just woke up from a near death experience and she was already trying to get stronger. It was hard to believe it's been half a year since the fall of Beacon and her fight with the Fall Maiden Cinder Fall, since everyone separated. Most of her students have taken upon themselves to go to Haven while others were on their own journey. The older Crowe unleashed a couple of kicks only to fall again, she cursed in a mutter. It will a while before she feels back to normal.
The memories were still so fresh in her mind. The Vytal Festival, her exhibition match with Cinder, finsing out the woman's evil plan, the destruction of Amity Arena, the Grimm attacking and the dragon Grimm that arrived to make things worse. Beacon being attacked, Yang losing an arn, kissing Jaune, the events that led to her fight with Cinder. Pyrrha's death, her eyes narrowed remembering that so well. Velvet got so angry she unleashed her malevolence and was able to stand toe to toe with the Fall Maiden. The aftermath of Vale and the school falling to the Grimm and her sleeping for six months. She's been out of commossion for too long, time to change that. The older Crowe misses her students and brother, she couldn't wait to leave this place and go after them. And how can she forget that Salem was still out there, planning her next move to get the next maiden and relic.
Velvet got back to her feet practing her kicks and fists. Pretending she had her gauntlet blade Vertex Rose. The weapon Ruby made for her whom, she has come care for a lot. It was her perfect weapon with everything she wants. Cursing mentally the long haired woman almost tripped, able to regain her balance at the last second. Her poor body couldn't take it, has she's gotten so weak that she could barely stand up. She did considered getting some rest to see if it can do something to recover at least a portion of her energy. Something caught her attention as she saw something on the window of her room. Chest nut eyes widened in shock, there stood Seres. Looking back the masked malakhim was actually present. The reincarnation of her older sister Celica. She wasn't real, this was all in her head so she chose to ignore her. Focusing or her training is more important.
"Should you be doing this in your current condition?"
She ignored her, oh no she wasn't going to play along. This was all in her head, her conscious playing games with her. Seres wasn't here, she's not real just an illusion. Because if she does start saying a word that will make her crazy. What if that damn nurse shows up and sees her talking to herself. It will be one trip to the mental hospital. And if that happens, it will be a whole lot harder to escape when Weiss calls her. Maybe if she doesn't say anything it will go away. Which she had a strong feeling, that wasn't going to happen. The masked malak stood still, not looking like it was going anywhere. What was the point, why was she here. If her conscious wants her to know some kind of lesson. Whatever it is, she didn't want to know. The time she has before the nurse comes was precious. So, she will make the best of it.
"Pushing yourself won't help you get better. You would only become a liability to others. Rest is more recommended."
This is the last thing she needed, her stupid conscious or better yet Seres herself telling her to take a break. Worst time and place to come and play mother or worried elderly sister. Yet, Velvet resumed to ignore her. No need to waste words on something that isn't really there.
"I know it's hard, but you need rest. This kind of reckless behavior will cost you more harm than good. Velvet, please-"
The older Crowe finally had it reaching the limit of her patience. Walking to the apparition of the masked malak. Her eyes were filled with anger and she knew yelling will get her in deep trouble. So what if she starts talking to herself. As long as no one sees her or find out, she'll be okay. No mental hospitality for her.
"I don't need you telling me what's best for me. Stop babysitting me" she kept her tone low.
"What you're doing now is wrong. Your condition is fragile."
"There you go again, looking after me. I don't need this, I know my limits. But I have to do something and resting isn't in my interest. Now, go."
"Do you?"
The older Crowe glared at the malak.
"Do you know your limits? You're one person Velvet. Even with your abilities that were passed down by Origin, you're not unbeatable. Otherwise, you wouldn't be here."
"What's the advice? You're here for a reason and you won't leave until I learn my lesson, right?"
"To remind you to stop being so careless. Look what happened to you? You almost die at the hands of Cinder. You didn't won that fight. If you hadn't unleash your malevolence, you would have been dead."
"Thanks for pointing out the obvious. No need to tell me thing I already know. Cinder was also pretty beat up, it was a draw."
"I really have to remind you what's at stake?"
"No, because I know. Fate of the world, maidens, relics, Salem. I've done this before. You're not needed unless, you want to give me a power boost."
"You haven't change one bit. Still reckless as always. Have you come to terms that you nearly die?"
Velvet stood silent, wanting to continue with her training.
"You're lucky you ended up in a coma. Your second chance would have been wasted if you were dead. Velvet you can't win this on your own. You claim you know but yet, you don't. You're not all powerful, you're still one person and one person isn't enough to change the course of a world. Remember Artorius, the Abbey, Innominat. You didn't won that battle because you were alone, you had help from your allies. Here, Ozpin is still one person and he's been unable to stop Salem."
"If he's still alive" muttered the former therion.
"I'm serious, if you don't change your ways you might die for real this time. Trying to do things on your own isn't the answer. A six month coma isn't enough to open your eyes?"
"I have to get better before I leave this place. I have to get to Mistral, I have to get to the others."
"Why are you so stubborn is beyond me?" the malak shook her head.
"Because I have to" she was so close to snap at Seres" I must do this. I have to be there for them so they don't…..."
The masked malak remained quiet seeing the emotions in the young woman's eyes.
"I can't let them die, I can't lose them too. I was once powerless, defenseless to do anything when everyone from Aball were killed by me. And Laphicet, you know what it's like to lose important people. To lose your family and loved ones. You were there on the Advent, that Scarlet Night that scarred me forever, the second one. Now in this world, this second chance I am not wasting it or so help me, I will drag myself from this hospital if I must. If anything happens to them, it's all over. I won't be able to go on. What will be the point of trying to save this world when the people that matters to me the most are gone?"
"…...…."
"Laphicet, Jaune, Ruby, Weiss, Yang, Blake, Ren, Nora, Serenity I can go on because there are more people to care about and fight for. Without them, I won't have the will or strength to save this world. Might as well just die. That's why I have to be reckless, push myself to the limit. Because all of them are worth the effort. If sacrificing myself is what it takes to save them all, I won't hesitate. You know what I'm talking about. What will you do to live those days again when me, Laphicet and Arthur were around?"
"…...…"
"You will do anything just to see one more day of the three of us together. Because you were able to regained Celica's memories. You cherished those moments and memories forever, even with Arthur being the only one to see you. You were happy. You care for us as much as my sister."
The malak has removed her mask, revealing her chest nut eyes. They were tearing up.
"What you're feeling now, is exactly what I'm feeling. Instead of reminded me my reckless behavior, I ended up reminding you the importance of family. Now leave, I'm done talking to myself."
Seres dried her tears, same old Velvet. How she has missed her and the older Crowe was able to turn the tables around. It was all true when she remembered Celica's memories, she was so happy to spend time with the siblings and the man who was once her lover. She was a different person but those memories are so pure, it moved her heart and she wanted to be part of that life. On the night of Advent she hated herself for what she did, stopping Velvet from letting Arthur sacrifice Laphicet. It broke her heart seeing the young girl screaming in tears not wanting her little brother to die. The guilt destroyed her which led her to do what she did in freeing Velvet from her prison and betraying Artorius. At the same time, she saw the pain and suffering from the Shepherd. How much he was in pain to carry out his plan because it was his duty. Throwing a wonderful life away for the sake of the world.
"Guess there was no need for me after all" a chuckled escaped her lips.
"I'm glad to see you again Seres" Velvet smiled even if she wasn't real.
"Can you at least promise me you will be more careful?"
"Won't make any promises."
"That's what I thought."
The malak was finally gone but not before giving a smile as Velvet resumed her training. It wasn't just the fate of the world but, the fate of her students and brother. She made it clear how far she will go to protect them. She will get strong no matter what. Not giving a damn until her body gets so weak she can no longer stand.
And strong she got, after she recovered and left Atlas. Velvet realized the stronger the malevolence she releases, the stronger she becomes. She fought Cincer again, and she was able to hold her own. This time, no coma and the Fall Maiden was really hurt. Proof that she has come a long way since the first time she fought her. She also got another power up thanks to Ozpin. Now she can turn into a giant dragon, with some setbacks of course. She wasn't the only one, her brother also got that boost. A different animal. It was a choice that the former headmaster of Beacon offered them. Both siblings chose for the same reason. They want to protect others and stop Salem. Both had a mission while aiding the others in the group. Find the maidens and the relics, and make sure the Grimm witch doesn't get to them. It will mean great danger for Remnant if she does, that's for sure.
The older Crowe realied she was in a familiar setting. The red windows, the white space, the long table. This was her conscious at least that's what she highly believes. Seres was present as she expected on the other end and someone else. Chest nut eyes widened seeing Celica sitting in the middle of the table. It was the first time she has the two at the same time. Her older sister and her malakhim reincarnation. Of course, there has to be a reason for her being here. It didn't matter, she was so happy to see them again. Truly she has missed them both. Everyone from her world, Arthur and her companions. That also includes Magilou and Bienfu. Still, this was nice being here again. The last time was back in her world during her journey for revenge. How both of them saved her from her despair along with the malak Laphicet. If it weren't for them she would have been devoured by Innominat and would have never been in this world.
(Music: "Theme of Velvet" from the Tales of Berseria original soundtrack)
"This is a dream in case you're wondering" spoke Seres.
"I thought as much. This is all in my head as it always been. Thank you for being here."
"We have watched you for so long, we have never left your side" said the masked malak.
"Ever since you and Laphicet came to Remnant to be precise. You two have been through a lot" followed Celica.
"That's an understatement" the older Crowe rolled her eyes.
"But neither of you have given up. Under all the hardships you've been through. I am so proud of both of you."
"It's because we have people to fight for. We have a new life, a new home and we will fight for it until the end. I'm sure I'm not dreaming this so you can tell me I'm doing a good job."
"Straight to the point, yes. The reason you're here is in regards to our talk from the hospital" said Seres.
Velvet stood in thought. Back then she told her exactly what she feels. Being honest and following her heart.
"I haven't change my mind since then, if that's what you want to know. I will continue to get strong no matter what my body will go through."
Celica didn't like her answer as her eyes softened. Her younger sister noticed. Why would it upset her, its the truth.
"Even if you end up in another coma, or you die?" asked the malak.
"Yes. My brother and everyone else is what matters the most to me."
"You still don't get it, do you?"
"Get what?"
"Your life is also important Velvet" replied Celica" you have always put others before yourself. It's an admirable trait, but foolish. How can you protect others, care for them if you won't be around after the fight is done?"
"I must. Otherwise, it will all be for nothing. Coming to this world, having this second chance. No one will get a chance like this. I am making the most of it since coming to Remnant. My brother and I have. And we're not going to let some Grimm witch take that from us just because she can't move on from her former love and has a God complex."
"Will it matter if you die? If you die protecting them and Laphicet" said the elder Crowe.
"Why is it so hard to understand? I love them all and I will do anything to keep them safe."
"Still putting others before yourself" followed Seres.
"Is it bad? That I have found a new family, people to cherish and find a meaning in this new life, that I have actually fallen in love with the perfect person. And you don't want me to put my life on the line for their sake?"
"It is if you die!" shouted her older sister" I don't want you to die, or Laphicet. I want both of my brother and sister to continue living and be happy. It's all right to fight for the ones you hold dear, for this world. But, don't lose your life in the process. You might think you're doing the right thing, that your sacrifice will make it worth it. When it's done, they're the ones who will be heartbroken, mourning your loss. Laphicet, your students, Jaune. I will always love Arthur and it pained me so much when I died and he witnessed it. He was hurt the most. Don't throw your life away, no matter how heroic the deed will be. Think about them, how will they feel if you're gone?"
Velvet stood shocked at her words. It was so simple and yet, she never noticed. Why did it took her so long to see the truth. Tears emerged as they started falling. Was this bothering her all along. How could she have not realize it sooner. Celica wanted what was best for her and Laphicet. It will crush her if anything happens to them. Team Her brother, Team RWBY, Ren, Nora, Cardin, Oscar, Qrow, Jaune they will all be crushed if she dies. She remembered Yang and Cardin's words when she was in a coma, they were devastated filled with guilt and regret. And when she reunited with everyone at Haven, their tears and how happy they were to see her again. The former daemon gave a few sobs, drying her tears. To think it took her own sister to see such a dumb and obvious mistake. Then there was Jaune's speech when he saved from her jumping out of that building. Everything came back full circle.
"At the hospital, I didn't bothered. Because the only person that can bring some sense into you is Celica. It seems I was right."
"Now do you see? You can fight, you can protect them but you also have to look after your own well being. Velvet your life isn't something to be taken for granted. It's precious just like everyone else's. Don't think to give it up because you feel you have a responsibility to do so. You do it once, learn from your mistake. A new world, a second chance live it to the fullest."
The long haired woman nodded, done drying her tears. Was it selfish of her to be ready to die for everyone. The enemy and the odds of winning, Salem is powerful. But, is there a way to actually defeat her. Immortality means nothing but she wasn't sure how to win against such a foe. Innominat wasn't immortal, he could have been killed but she chose not to due that she will be sacrificing the therions that were obligated to become them by the Abbey. Along with the malak Laphicet and herself. At the time she wasn't thinking about her own life, just like now. Guess putting others above herself has been a bad force of habit.
"I thought I have put the past behind me. I was wrong, I'm still thinking of the things I did to the point the only way I can get redemption for my actions is, if I sacrifice myself. It's not easy to let it go I have to bury it and let it go. Not for myself but for the others."
That's right she was the one who consoled Blake, Yang and Cardin. They were the same as her, trying to atone for the mistakes of their past. What kind of teacher she will be if she doesn't learn from hers. It was up to her to make sure they continue living and doing their best. The past will always be part of her, Velvet knew this well. It's the present and the future that counts. A strong reminder taught by her older sister. She teared up again another valuable lesson learned.
"I will try not to put my life at risk. Because many people are counting on me to return to them."
"Try? I suppose that's acceptable" Seres smiled.
"Yes. It wouldn't be Velvet if she didn't" followed the older Crowe with a smile.
"To make sure I come back alive, I will promise. No, more like an oath…."
Celica and Seres looked at each other. Her tone was serious, she really means her words.
"The exorcists of the Abbey who were very loyal to the Shepherd swore an oath to follow his every orders. To fight for him until their dying breath. I will do the same, except the dying breath part. From this day on, I swore to protect my friend, my family and the people of Remnant with all of my strength. I will vanquish all evil."
"An oath by you? That is surprising" replied the masked malak.
"It's fine by me, I know you and Laphicet will do your best" followed Celica.
(Music end)
"Thank you, both of you."
The elder Crowe got up from the table as she walked over to her younger sister. Velvet smiled getting up too, receiving a hug from the young woman.
"I will always be watching over you two. I love you both very much."
"I love you too my dear sister" she let more tears fall.
Everything faded to black.
Velvet's eyes opened noticing she was back at the Atlesian fleet bound for Atlas. Next to her was Laphicet who was wide awake, smiling at her. Gazing at the front Ruby was pouting while Yang was smirking. She didn't wanted to know what was that all about. The rest were sleeping, even Qrow. Guess they needed the rest after everything that happened at Argus. Her eyes fell on Jaune, remembering what she talked with Seres and Celica. Both the malak and her sister cares for her so much they will come in her dreams. Her spirit will always be with her, looking after her and Laphicet. Truly the qualities of a great sister. Now she has another objective asides stopping Salem and save Remnant.
"I promise, on my oath I will make it back for them. For you Celica watch me as I fight for all of them."
End
-I think I hit the nail on the head with Velvet's resolve in this character short. We've seen how far she went to kill Artorius. In this story she will go to any lengths to take out Salem even if she can't be killed even if it means dying. So who will be better to remind her that she has great people that loves her than her very own sister. I also had to include Seres since she's part of Celica. From now on she will also think of herself, remember to always return to them.
-Yeah I decided to upload the chapter tonight instead of tomorrow.
-The first scene is obviously during v4 after Velvet woke up from her coma.
-Just an early word there might be a slight delay with the next chapter of the Paladin and the Guild Heroes. I'm still working on it. Plus, I'm currently working on updating other stories won't say which one just to keep you guessing. But first I will finish the two remaining character shorts.
-Replying to reviews:
*Dracus6- don't think so it's just the story needs a rewrite first before any ideas can be given.
*Sweetdesire2002- hope you like Velvet's character short. You're really curious about Laphicet's animal form all I can say it's a mythical creature which is strong. That's all the hint I can give without spoiling it. Your other review well I really can't say because I will be giving spoilers. But a few details won't hurt. I found it stupid that she was running for council seat while stealing from the military. I will be fixing that as well as her weapon. That fan crossbow is dumb I'll give her something better. Ruby and Laphicet? Well that still in debate I am developing this ship slowly (slowburn).
*TheEmeraldMage- well his gift is connected with Innominat but it focuses more on his bond with Velvet. Yep, I'll be giving Robin's character as all as the whole v7. Time to make it as it should be. Gotta thank RT for messing it up. Otherwise, it wouldn't inspire me to make it better. That's a good things they've done.
*fangs of death- thank you very much.
-As always thank you very much for the favs, follows and reviews I really appreciate it.
Next time: Cardin's character short resolve
