Disclaimer: I do not own RWBY, only my OCs and original plot.
Abseil immediately moved to rest Reiya securely on his back, furling in his wings to keep her from falling off to either side. Satisfied, he finally regarded Ozma and his assistant. Curiously enough, both visibly expressed shock, though the wizard was far more subdued in doing so. Abseil chalked it up to Reiya's sudden change in position.
"Welcome back, Abseil. It seems you've taken care of her affliction." Ozma hummed.
"Naturally." Abseil hummed himself. He was beyond satisfied. Happy, even, if his development in emotional intelligence was to be believed.
"Pardon my bluntness, I think I prefer your intimidating silhouette back in Miss Akatsuki's mind over seeing how you truly appear."
"Oh?" Abseil narrowed his eyes. He looked himself over, though he couldn't tell anything different than usual in regards to his form. Though, he noted he appeared much more...solid than incorporeal. "All sorts of developments as of late, it seems." he mused aloud.
"Indeed. Though, this is worrying." Ozma frowned, clasping one hand over the other atop his cane.
"Quite." Abseil responded before either of the two could say anything further. "It would prove rather troublesome should I reveal myself to your students and faculty."
"Headmaster, we must keep these two here lest they throw the campus into chaos!" Goodwitch implored. "They can't return to the amphitheatre. I'll see about retrieving her things and--"
Ignoring the two for the moment, Abseil squinted at his form. His scarred ear twitched in slight agitation as he contemplated how to resolve their latest issue. Perhaps, it was as easy as willing himself invisible to the world around him?
As the thought crossed his mind, Abseil's body suddenly began flickering before his form slowly turned incorporeal once more. Pleasantly surprised, Abseil tested an inverse theory, and just as slowly, his form returned to a visible, solid state.
Lovely. We do not need another problem on our hands.
It was that easy, for once.
He heard Ozma sigh before the latter sipped his coffee. "Nevermind it all, Glynda. It's all under control, thankfully." Goodwitch's words tapered off into silence while Abseil double-checked on Reiya who was still soundly asleep. Thankfully, without distress. "We have medical staff on hand, Mr. Abseil. It would do well to make sure there isn't anything awry with her, especially her mental state."
"Thank you for your offer. I shall take you up on it." Abseil looked between the two of them. "That is, if our business is concluded."
"I only wished to meet Miss Akatsuki personally, and to discern her current affiliations." Ozma adjusted his glasses. "At least, for now, we do not believe she is a threat to our goals. Or to our students." Ozma cleared his throat. "We still have not discerned your partner's position in our war against Salem.. and we know where you stand, what with your loyalty for her. Yes, our meeting is concluded for now, I'd like to see her again tomorrow if she is able."
"I shall relay your request to her once she wakes."
"Thank you. If that is all, Glynda will escort you two to our infirmary."
"I have no queries for you nor your assistant."
Ozma nodded, gesturing for Goodwitch to take the floor. Sighing once again, the deputy cleared her throat and approached Abseil. Albeit, with caution, though that was not unexpected. "Please cloak yourself again, Mr.. Abseil. I will also provide the transportation for Miss Akatsuki as we make the trip to the infirmary. It'd be suspicious if anyone were to spot her floating on her own."
"Very well. You would best take care to avoid harming my bondmate." 'Or else.' hung in the air following his words. Nodding, Goodwitch waited until Abseil hid himself once more before she flicked her riding crop a single, fluid motion. A faint purple glow surrounded Reiya before she was carefully lifted from Abseil's back and to Goodwitch's side.
Goodwitch opened the lift's doors and carefully manipulating Reiya inside before stepping in herself. Abseil followed, but not before giving Ozma a parting glance. The Wizard merely smiled and saluted in the spectre's general direction with his coffee mug, returning to his desk and resumed penning through papers. "I am ready." Abseil called to Goodwitch after realising she couldn't see whether or not he had entered the lift what with his invisibility. Nodding, Goodwitch queued the ground floor and the doors closed again. She can still hear me, it seems, despite my cloak. Abseil thought. I will have to practise more caution speaking with Reiya in public from now on. A compromise for my anonymity, if a minor annoyance.
The silent ride down to the ground floor finally reached an end, Goodwitch stepping out as soon as the doors gave way. Reiya's body, of course, followed close, with Abseil trailing not too far behind.
It was a rather peaceful walk, all things considered. Abseil took the opportunity to study more of the campus grounds, as he had been focused on calming Reiya on their way to Ozma's office. To their right was carefully grown fauna, as well as portions of other hallways leading to different regions of the campus. On their left was a plain wall that stretched all the way down the hallway save for a few doors Abseil didn't bother to discern where they led.
He also spotted the ever enrapturing sight of Remnant's moon. Abseil's vision blurred for the smallest of moments as he witnessed the moon turn from shattered to whole, as it used to be many millennia ago. Blinking the image away, he wondered if the God of Darkness had intended to leave the world with the surprisingly beautiful sight. In his own personal opinion, Abseil thought Remnant's moon, bleeding fragments as it was, was anything but unpleasant. The beowulf supposed there was a certain personality behind it all.
"Nrng...Abseil..."
The moon quickly thrown aside, Abseil snapped his attention to his bondmate. Though, to his disappointment, she merely fell silent once again. Unconsciousness still had its claim over her. Inwardly sighing, Abseil started to feel slighted from what had happened.
Developing some emotional awareness was starting to seem more of a bother. He almost preferred his past self, finding himself displeased by this sudden loss of control over his calm.
"My students are everything to me, Mr. Abseil."
Oh? Suddenly talkative, are we? Abseil hummed as he regarded the deputy who had led them to a set of double doors. Pushing them open, she floated Reiya inside and waited a moment for Abseil before stepping inside herself. The infirmary, Abseil noted, was rather moderate in size. Nothing to the likes of a fully equipped hospital, but plenty of space and equipment for the population of students within Beacon. Blindingly white walls and matching furnishings blanketed with soft lighting from the multiple lamps and fixtures, a sterile smell all around... All in all, a proper medical room for an academy of such prestigious calibre.
"They are also the life of this academy. The future for our kingdoms. I pray that they achieve many outstanding feats in their careers as future Huntsmen and beyond, doing me, and the rest of Remnant, proud." Goodwitch looked around, satisfied with their sole presences within the infirmary. No one would witness their conversation.
"And yet," Abseil replied in a low, amused tone, "you sacrifice their livelihoods as soon as they become of age for their combat schools. You groom children for war while the rest of your people hide behind walls blissfully unaware of true danger aside from running out of Dust power to heat your tea."
Goodwitch gritted her teeth. In the dark of the infirmary, her expression was rather ugly whilst basking in the moving shadows due to Abseil's presence. "They have choice. In the four years they will be taking in this academy, they all have the choice to drop out and stay out of the fight without consequence. And they are only active Huntsmen post graduation."
"What difference does that make when the children can go nowhere else but primary combat school, hm? Young minds are incredibly malleable, Goodwitch. Impressionable. Whatever personal desires they may have had die long before they enroll into your academies." Abseil watched as Goodwitch stiffly walked over to a bed, carefully depositing Reiya onto it. "All the pressure from their society.. The expectations they do their best to live up to--"
"They have this life because of your kind." Goodwitch snapped, turning to his general direction. "Without grimm lurking in every single corner of our lives, we wouldn't need to encourage our children to fight for humanity's survival. We wouldn't need to have all of our schools tie combat training to their primary education. We wouldn't need the walls that stand high around every kingdom in our world, trapping those we call friends and family inside before they are even born to understand why such fortifications are necessary."
Abseil said nothing in return, only padding up to Reiya's sleeping form as he reverted to his "domestic" form, as Salem had called it. He hummed as he looked over it, making certain there wasn't a single blemish from her travel via Goodwitch. In regards to the latter, he didn't bother to respond after some thought. The woman just wouldn't understand.
She would never understand. After all, humanity had long since taught their following generations that grimm were inherently evil with no purpose other than mindlessly rid Remnant of them. Even with deeper knowledge of their history as Ozma had most certainly informed her with, she would never shake her upbringing. And why would she? Salem only made to reinforce her perspective with her control over grimm.
Abseil had to give it to Goodwitch though. After all, the grimm were originally created by the Brother God of Darkness to wipe out humanity during His time. Out of spite, even. But after the fact? Humanity grew again. They made Remnant bleed with their evolution. They began draining the world of its natural dust supply to fuel their own wanton and needless desires. They were greedy. They constantly fought one another. They never had enough.
So, of course, with the overwhelming surge of humanity, overwhelming negativity came with it. And Salem quickly took advantage of that
Ah. I wonder if I am being hypocritical. Abseil pondered while he sat himself next to Reiya's bed. He had been a human too. Very, very long ago. That would mean he had fought his own brethren, wouldn't it? That he had been part of the very thing he was reborn to cleanse? And reborn, yet again, to follow another human? I am starting to stray. None of it matters anymore. Abseil shook his head. My will is Reiya's. My desires are to fulfill hers. I am forever at her side, and I am content with my fate.
"--may be loyal to her, Abseil, but that means very little to me..The Headmaster's words, be damned." Goodwitch continued, Abseil tuning her in again. "Mark my words, if you harm a single hair on any of my students, or any citizen of the kingdoms and settlements, I will not hesitate to erase you from our world. Do not think you are immune from consequence."
"You waste your breath. Regardless of what the future brings to us all, my future will always be determined by my bondmate, and I shall succeed her will to the very day I cease to exist. Should that mean I must bear my fangs to the likes of you or your brethren..."
Goodwitch flinched back a step as Abseil was suddenly right in front of her, visible again and taking his true form emanating dark power. His eyes had gone crimson again, hellish malevolence incarnate. Abseil's wings unfurled ever so slightly, whilst he made it a point to knock Goodwitch's raised crop to the floor with barely any effort of a paw. Goodwitch remained frozen from there, eyes narrowed dangerously and her aura glowing vividly. They hardly had any room between them, face to face. Or face to muzzle, as it were.
"...I would not hesitate, just as you said. If she wishes it, I will leave nothing to stand in her way. Nothing but a clear, clean path for her to take her throne atop the world she envisions. And you are a mere tolerance, with nary a value to me save for your amusing blindness to how miniscule you are in this grand journey we call Life's purpose."
In the next moment, he had returned to his original position and appearance, cloaked and content to rest his chin on Reiya's chest.
He didn't bother to witness Goodwitch furiously shaking where she stood. Oh, how livid she was at his words. But Abseil didn't care. Neither he nor Reiya had done anything to warrant retribution. Yet. As for Goodwitch, it would take her a few more minutes before she decided to finally pull out her Scroll and make the call.
"... Doctor Valeria? Yes, please forgive the suddenness, I know it's late, but I have someone in your infirmary who needs tending... None at all, to my knowledge. I just need you to perform a physical, an aura scan, and possibly an MRI... She had a rather worrying night terror. At least, that's the best way I can describe it... Yes, thank you, doctor."
The first thing Rei registered upon waking was a familiar weight on her head. The weight lifted immediately after, and she was greeted by the sight of her partner. I am glad you are awake, Milady. Do mind, there are others present.
Don't start calling me that again, fuck's sake.. Rei groaned as she fully roused, a massive headache spiking. Where am I, Abseil? What happened?
The academy's infirmary. was his reply. You suffered a rather potent nightmare for a brief time, and we brought you here to be certain you are all well.
... I saw you.. I think. Rei blinked, smiling just a tad. Thanks, Abseil. Where would I be without you?
Her partner gave that ever so creepy grin at her words. You would very likely be trapped being the Spring Maiden's glorified barbarian.
Fuck you. she inwardly laughed, still finding it difficult to move much. She felt so tired and sluggish, as if someone had slipped her loads of alcohol to indulge in until she passed out.
"Professor? She's awake."
Finally noticing the scrubs-clad woman at the foot of her bed, Rei winced at the scowl the doctor sported. Her hair was out of order, and it looked like she hadn't gotten any sleep yet. Because of me, probably.
Rei heard Abseil cackle off to her side. "Uh, hi? What's my diagnosis, doc?" She spotted Goodwitch making her way to them, taking a seat on a small chair behind the doctor. Said doctor moved closer, a pen in hand.
"Nothing broken." the doctor yawned, excusing herself before brandishing her identification tag. "My name is Dr. Azul Valeria. Professor Goodwitch asked me to give you a check up, and a couple of scans. From what I've gathered, you are showing no signs of injury, nor is there anything unusual with your aura. Your MRI scans are coming back clean as well. I'm just finishing up, so don't worry, this won't take long." The doctor clicked her pen and a small light came to life on the other end. "Look at the light, please, and track it."
Rei sighed and did as she was told, first looking right, then left, up and down, before the doctor retreated and made some notes. Rei winced again. Fucking headache.
Perhaps, look near the light rather than directly at it the next time, partner mine.
Dude, she literally told me to look at it. The doctor probably knows better than the best of us.
Not quite that large of a task, with you in mind.
WOW.
"Any pain?" the doctor asked. Rei shook her head, though she brought up a hand to massage her temple. "Are you sure?"
"Just a headache, but I think I just need some water."
The doctor nodded. "Your professor mentioned a night terror. Stress tends to induce headaches, or cluster migraines in extreme cases from a poor session of sleeping. I'll get you some painkillers in a moment... Aside from that, you seem perfectly fine. Just be sure to let me or the professor know if any other symptoms come up or if your headache gets worse."
"Will do." Rei nodded with gratitude as the doctor shook her hand and glanced at Goodwitch.
"She can go back to the rest of the students whenever you feel appropriate. My Scroll will be on standbye in case of anything."
"Thank you, Doctor." Goodwitch bowed. "My deepest apologies, again, for calling you so late."
"Don't you worry about it, Professor." Valeria yawned again. "Tis my job."
Before long, Rei was given a pair of pills for her headache before the doctor left the infirmary. Rei only then noticed how irate Goodwitch seemed to be, judging from the furrowed brow and the repetitive tapping of her crop. What did you do?
She attempted to threaten me. I told her that her words meant next to nothing.
Fucking hell, Abseil. I guess you can talk to her outside of my mind now?
Apparently so. I shall fill you in on the details at a later time though. The professor seems ready to address you right about now.
"I am glad you're all right, Miss Akatsuki." Goodwitch began, as if on cue. "I hope you believe me when I say that we had no hand in what happened in the Headmaster's office."
"You're good. I kind of remember everything that happened up until that point." Rei scratched her head, slowly sitting up and realising she lacked a shirt, leaving her exposed. "Uh.."
Worry not, I can shield you from the cold once we depart for the amphitheatre. Might I suggest a bra in case of next--?
Abseil, please shut up. Please.
"Your top is folded right there." Goodwitch indicated a stool next to her bed, and Rei quickly snatched it to throw it on. "The doctor had to perform a physical on you just in case. I'm sorry--"
"No, it's okay! It's just... awkward."
Goodwitch cleared her throat after Rei situated herself again. "I believe you might have accidentally 'slipped' while we traversed your mind. It would make sense, as I doubt you have had any experience beforehand--you very likely dropped your guard, so to speak, and allowed your darker demons to overwhelm your control."
"I just know I won't be doing that again anytime soon, if at all, Professor." Rei shuddered, stretching her arms and back. "It's whatever..." she continued, tossing the pills into her mouth and swallowing them whole. "..so, are we done? Am I going back to the amphitheatre now, or..?"
"Yes, that would be appropriate." Goodwitch nodded, standing to her full height and walking over to the double doors of the infirmary. "Do you need assistance walking?"
"I don't think so." Rei muttered as she swung her legs over to the side of the bed, slowly standing up. For a moment, she stumbled, but Abseil caught her before she even came close to the floor. "Thanks."
Anytime. Ah, before I forget, Ozma wishes to see you once again tomorrow.
Ugh, when?
They never specified. You ought to ask the woman before you.
"When am I meeting you two again tomorrow?"
Goodwitch had been frowning at Rei's side where Abseil stood before she schooled her expression again, adjusting her glasses with a finger. "At your earliest convenience, tomorrow morning, would be preferable."
"Got it." Rei, with Abseil's help, made her way over to the doors as Goodwitch opened them for the two. Back to our spot by the windows, I guess.
Whereupon you shall rest, bondmate mine. Today has been quite the rush for you.
You can say that again.
Whereupon you shall--.
THAT'S A FIGURE OF SPEECH, YOU--!
I jest.
... Ugh..
We can't really fault her, I guess. Rei took a moment to stretch her legs some more before catching up with Goodwitch, who had been silent since their departure from the infirmary. She loves her students, and you're... well..
Indeed, I may as well be of the ilk you would find outside your walls. Abseil replied, and Rei found his amused tone rather odd. As far as she can tell--what is it that saying, 'If the shoe fits?'
Yeah, you're not giving her much to work with looking like you do. she inwardly laughed. You're kind of fugly, you know?
I am what?
What?
I shall just assume you have taken to your usual prattle.
Anyway, your fugliness aside, Rei continued, ignoring his "That word again...", I don't really have an idea why Ozma would want to meet again tomorrow.
Later today. Abseil corrected with a hum. Midnight has passed not too long ago. In regards to the meeting, I haven't an inkling either. I did not discuss much of anything with them before our excursion for the infirmary, save for the discovery of my ability to be perceived by whoever I wish.
What the fuck. How long was I out?
Following the development in the Wizard's office? Roughly, just short of two hours. We'd spent quite some time within your mind as well. Rei sighed at the knowledge. She really hoped that she'd be able to get some sleep tonight, banking on still being somewhat exhausted from the exams and everything that had happened earlier. Be calm, bondmate mine, but I managed an unexpected encounter to the False Queen.'
False Queen'? Who are you--Wait, do you mean Salem? Rei very nearly stopped in her tracks, but resisted the urge as she reminded herself of Goodwitch. The professor made no mention of Salem back in the infirmary, so Rei figured Abseil hadn't told her. Nor Ozma. Else, they would probably be in the office right now, interrogated into the ground. How the fuck did you end up talking with Salem?!
She has been watching us. She said so herself. I do not know how she made an appearance within your mind, I can only suspect it is due to your supposed connection with her, aura signature and all, whether or not that runs deeper than we know. Rei waited for Abseil to continue as the spectre's mask contorted in an expression of contemplation. She denied having any hand in your previous affliction, only having the intention to speak with me.
And why...?
"We've arrived, you two."
Rei returned her attention to Goodwitch as the latter opened the doors to the amphitheatre. Sparing a quick glance inside, Rei spotted her fellow potential classmates mostly asleep in their sleeping bags and the like. A few were quietly talking here and there, some having taken to being on their Scrolls with headphones in. Oh? She resisted cracking a smile spotting a couple breaking their kiss and quickly made to look inconspicuous upon noticing Goodwitch.
I recall us sharing a few words over hormones.
"I hope you rest well tonight, Miss Akatsuki." Goodwitch gave a slight bow of her head as she turned around. "Do you have any questions or concerns for me, before I take my leave?"
"Nope." Rei yawned, "I'll see you later this morning, Professor."
"Very well." Goodwitch pulled out her Scroll, already returning to her duties as the Beacon's right hand. Rei rolled her eyes in pity, making sure the deputy was still looking away. The woman was a workaholic. "Some faculty members will arrive early tomorrow morning with a fair amount of breakfast--you should have enough time to eat before our meeting. With that said, have a good night, Miss Akatsuki."
"You too."
Goodwitch closed the door behind her as Rei made to return to the spot she'd claimed before her meeting with Ozma. Ignoring the looks from the other Initiates, she immediately found the staircase again. So, what were you saying about Salem? Next to her, Abseil studied the inlaid designs on each step of the staircase as they climbed.
She wished to discuss my intentions, partner mine.
Your intentions? Rei frowned. I thought she's been cut off from you when we made our pact?
Evidently, no. A grunt of disdain. The False Queen questioned my loyalty to you, and our motives. To be frank, we shared quite the back and forth regarding my loyalty to you. She made her opinion of it quite clear, though she dropped the matter without much argument.
What did you tell her then? Rei asked, adjusting the hem of her grey tunic.
That my loyalty forever belongs to you. I am yours.
She tried not to show how much those words made her colour. His last words sounded incredibly romantic. Clearing her throat, Rei sat herself against the pillar in front of the window, helping herself to a view of the grand courtyard outside.
Afterward, Abseil continued whilst he shifted into a larger version of his current form, she essentially emphasised that so long as we do not interfere with her plans against Ozma and the kingdoms, we need not worry--the False Queen will refrain from targeting the two of us, though I imagine, potential crossfire remains likely as we participate in your schooling.
I find it hard to believe she'd truly leave us alone to do our thing. As far as she knows, I'm getting on the become-a-Huntsmen-to-fight-the-grimm train--which is literally interfering with her war with Ozma.
Whether or not she has any insight of your desires from her time watching us matters little, if I may speak boldly. Rei sighed with content as Abseil laid himself between her back and the pillar, effectively becoming a living cushion. She knows of how truly unconcerned I am with the affairs of this world, bondmate mine. That I have no reason to associate myself with her in any way, shape, or form in our journey to achieve your desires. Perhaps, she reckons we will stay our course indefinitely and pose little threat to her motives.
I can see the reasoning behind that, at least. Rei hummed. And then she blinked, considering what she had just done, and let out a small laugh. Your habits are rubbing off on me, hm-hm?
As yours, me. She looked at him, watching his skeletal nostrils flare in an exaggerated manner.
Oh, fuck you!
Returning to the matter at hand, crossing swords with the False Queen will be inevitable, and we must be prepared for whenever that day chooses to arrive. Abseil said in monotone, stressing the seriousness of the eventual scenario. After all, your true motives directly oppose one another, whether she will realise that or not in the future.
Rei nodded, looking out at the courtyard again. One thing she could appreciate about the sight, despite how...privileged it all looked, was how the moonlight seemed to highlight it all at just the right angle. There was beauty to be found here, that much she could not deny. It only made it more difficult to swallow considering how she had been vehemently opposed to the idea of being a Huntsmen before.
And I'm going go beyond just being a Huntsman. Rei reaffirmed herself. I will make a change. In everything.
You will rule, Reiya. Thereupon, no one shall oppose you, nor possess the power to do so, foremost.
A moment of self-doubt roused itself within her. The confidence in which Abseil wielded those words was astounding. How can you be so sure? I can't even hold a candle to Raven in an all out fight for long, if at all if she doesn't hold back. And there's ALWAYS someone stronger. Stronger than Raven. Stronger than me, especially where I stand now, Abseil. You make it sound so easy.
I never said it would be, silly one. Abseil chuckled. Only that you will reach that point. In time. And I shall ensure that reality will always be within your grasps. Abseil rested his head on her lap as he curled around her, the warmth he was providing was almost becoming too hot for her to rest comfortably. Allow me to assist you in your endeavour, and all will fold to your favour.
Rei snorted, mustering over his words briefly. I know I have you by my side, buddy. It's just natural human self-limitations rearing its ugly head, I guess. I mean, with aura and dust, we can, and we have, achieved so many things in such a small amount of time. But that doesn't stop us from being afraid of what-ifs, you know?
I understand. Regardless, with every step we will take, we shall push beyond those limitations as standard practise. Believe in me, you are to be a true queen amongst your people.
Rei stroked the top of his skull, idly tracing his horns with a finger every now and then. A queen amongst the kingdoms... She wondered to herself, content to allow their conversation fall to comfortable silence. To rule...She smirked at the thought of herself dressed in a royal gown and scoffed the image away. Nah, it won't be literally royalty.. But power. And influence. That's what I need. And I'm going to get it. The status quo is so fucked up, I still can't believe everyone's okay with it. It's a screwed up 'normal', that's that.
Grimm. Human and Faunus tensions. The normalisation of constant death outside the walls--those few things were at the forefront of her mind, and she was sure that there were many more things that would have to change. For the better. But finding a permanent solution against the grimm was the most prominent of the problems within Remnant. Salem being the root of it all.
She sighed. Working with Ozma for now would be best. But she would have to pave the path on her own soon. Hopefully, the ancient Wizard wouldn't treat that as an act against him. Then she'd have two ancient beings out for her neck.
That would suck. She couldn't even tolerate the pain from stubbing a toe.
And for another, scary moment, her doubts returned. Did she truly want to change how the world worked? She was no superhero, nor did she plan to be. She just wanted to make things different, nothing more, nothing less. And she would achieve it by any means necessary... But whether or not such change would be worth it is the question. Rei wasn't an idiot. Whenever that day comes around, change wouldn't happen within a day. What she had in mind would takes years upon years to truly make a lasting impression. And that was the best case scenario.
The inverse really nibbled at her confidence. A part of her didn't care, really. That part of her wanted to resent the world and let it rot, and she would simply watch it happen as she did her own thing in the meantime. After all, the world will always be unfair, even with change for the greater good. Or for the "lesser bad". The last several years of her life had been harsh, and it was tempting to simply ignore everything outside her bubble.
Hm... No, she wouldn't stop now. She couldn't. There was no turning back, with the opportunity for power being so strong, it was impossible to ignore. That was truly what she wanted, discarding the sugar and sprinkles, and wishes for change. Those came second. She wantedpower, plain and simple. To erase her enemies, whoever they might be. To get what she wanted, with whatever that would have to happen.
Her desire was ultimately greedy, yes, but it wasn't as if everyone else in the world were truly selfless. The idea of a truly selfless person was laughable. Everyone wants something, the means be damned.
And Rei was no different.
She never wanted to be powerless again. Else, she'd be that same, weak little girl who did done nothing but watch her parents and village neighbours die. The little girl who ran from her burning home, only to live the rest of her childhood as a petty, nomadic thief to survive.
No, she was going to be the girl who did whatever she wanted, took whatever she wanted, for whatever reason she had--none would oppose.
A queen of power, I must be...
Someone approaches.
Jolting out of her thoughts, Rei sat up and Abseil allowed her to pass through his body to lean against the pillar so as to appear natural. Rei then crossed her arms behind her head and closed her eyes, focusing on her heightened senses.
Footfalls that were near silent made their way up the stairway to her level. They paused upon reaching the second floor for a moment, before making their way towards her. At their pace, it would be roughly just over ten or so seconds to reach her position.
Well done, partner mine. You never cease being quick to improve.
I have a great partner to help me. Rei shot back.
The footfalls were much closer now, stopping about a metre away. Rei decided to wait it out, hoping that the newcomer would take her lack of reaction to be that of someone who was deep in sleep. She even attempted to fake sleep-talking, muttering things like "Mmm, food..." to appear simple.
"People don't usually wear their boots to sleep.And your breathing is actually a little off."
Fuck. Well, I tried. I guess I have to socialise, ugh.
At least this one has not developed an infatuation towards you like the last one.
Shut up. Sighing, Rei opened her eyes with a shrug. "You've figured me out. Any reason why you decided to meet me up here, all on my lonesome?"
Amber eyes almost like her own narrowed. Though, whereas Rei's eyes were more of a fiery amber, the newcomer's eyes were amber in its truest hue. And while Rei wanted to make a joke that they were like cat eyes, she decided to shelve it upon noticing a particular scent emanating from the woman.
Holy shit, she's actually a cat faunus. I wonder if her eyes are the only visible trait.
With a bow atop her head matching her long hair, the newcomer was garbed in a black yukata with white trim. Rei could immediately tell she had a fit and slender build behind the fabric, with long and powerful legs signifying someone experienced with long tests of endurance. All that complete with an admittedly attractive face, Rei briefly wondered if she would go bisexual for the newcomer. Phew, if only my hips are like hers.
But they are?
Don't make it weird, Abseil.
"I'm experienced in rooting out those who are much stronger than they appear, and I can really tell when they have something to hide." Her voice was soft and reserved. Rei could detect a hint of wariness and tension though, and prepared herself accordingly.
I really don't want to be kicked out before the Initiation can even go down. Rei mentally groaned. "Hm, yeah? And? Everyone has something to hide, and so what if I don't want to strut around flaunting my strength? Initiation is coming up soon and if anything, it'd be smarter to hide your cards when we're eventually pitted against each other. And I'm not planning to fail because someone's got a bead on my abilities."
"What's your reason for being here? Be honest."
Rei narrowed her eyes, ignoring Abseil's apparent amusement over her situation. The spectre was still chuckling as he walked circles around the newcomer, eyes flashing red once as his mask contorted into a grin.
"Show me yours and I'll show you mine. I don't know you, and you're getting up in my business hard and fast."
The other girl frowned, but relented after some hesitation. "I'm here to make a better life for myself. To atone for sins I've committed in my past. And to fight for a better society than the one we're stuck in."
"Okay then." Rei leaned forward and stretched before yawning. It was really late now. "I just want power, and I'm tired of living a life without it."
"But why? I can tell you're being honest, but it doesn't make that much sense. Like I said, I can tell you're strong. Strong enough to be a threat."
"I'm not saying anything else. No offence or anything, but again, I don't know you. And you'd literally just walked up to me to interrogate my intentions. You don't look so honest yourself. I've no reason to trust you with more of myself."
"You don't know me, but you can trust me." the faunus said in reply. With a quick check of her surroundings, she removed the bow on her head to reveal two little cat ears twitching to life. "My name is Blake... And I want to fight for faunus rights. I can tell you're a faunus too, so you don't need to hide it from me. No one else is up here, all the humans are downstairs."
"You're a really contradictory type, you know that?" Rei grunted, crossing her arms behind her head again. "First, you make me out to be suspicious, and call me a threat. Then, you try to root out my motives for being here. Next, you try to play coy about who you are and why you're so suspicious of me in the first place, and now, you're asking me to trust you?" She laughed. "Why approach me the way you did? You could've done it a lot less threateningly."
"I just wanted to make sure you weren't sent by... by the White Fang." Blake said in a low tone, adjusting her yukata.
Interesting.
Right. Rei agreed. "Well, honey, I'm not from the White Fang. I don't know what you have against them, except, of course, the fact that they're getting a bit extreme with their methods for anyone to be okay with right now...but I'm pretty sure they don't accept humans."
At first, Blake seemed to express some relief at her words for whatever reason. But then, she gasped and raised her guard again, eyes narrowed. "They don't... But you have to be joking."
"Nope. Sorry," Rei said as she gestured to herself, "I'm all human."
It was clear that she'd confused Blake, and in turn, Rei was confused herself. What was so hard to grasp about that concept? Did she have extra ears that she was unaware of? A tail? Wings? Claws?
"But.. Your scent.." At Rei's confused expression, Blake elaborated. "Your scent... it has an unmistakable hint of canine in it. You're almost hiding it entirely with the rest of your scent, but it's there, I'm sure of it."
"Wha--Oh."
My apologies.
I.. I don't even... Ugh..
Is my scent unpleasant? Perhaps, I ought to make a short trip to waters outside this academy to wash..
No--Why--... Just stay. Now that she's brought it up, no, you don't smell bad. I just didn't expect your scent to cling to me.
I had thought it would be obvious it would the more we interact with one another during our times alone?
Like when we sleep together or just plain hang out... Rei realised.
Great. At least she didn't smell like wet dog.
Oh, right. This Blake girl.
"You're mistaken." Rei sighed, shrugging at Blake. "I can see why you're confused though. I have a dog back home, and he's been in the family for years. You're probably smelling him on me... And I should probably scrub harder the next time I shower.."
Blake sighed at her answer. "You know full well that as faunus, we can differentiate the differences in scent between our people and animals. I'm almost disappointed that you tried that card with me, one of your own people."
Okay, I'm starting to get annoyed with this girl's density.
Perhaps, bound in soul as we are, your natural scent altered as well due to what I am? That is the best assumption I can give you.
I don't fucking know anymore, I'm just tired and this weirdo isn't helping.
Said weirdo sighed again. "Just, nevermind. I won't pry again, even if you're trying to hide your faunus heritage from me for whatever reason. Just forget this meeting ever happened. I'm sorry for bothering you."
Rei shrugged again with another yawn. "Don't sweat it. Just, you know, maybe be a little less intense if you don't intend to approach someone as an enemy.
The faunus flinched as she tied her bow back on, her cat ears disappearing seamlessly under the ribbon. "I have my own reasons to be careful...The world isn't a place of sunshine and rainbows, and I won't let it catch me off guard again." She then bowed. "Again, I apologise for bothering you at this time of night. Good luck with Initiation tomorrow. Maybe I'll see you again soon."
What a weird, edgy girl. Rei shook her head as Blake disappeared downstairs. Wonder what's her backstory, coming at me like she did.
The Lost One walks a path of a fractured identity. Shame and resentment colour her steps, whilst fear and determination motivate her to never fall lest she risks being devoured by the stunted society around her. Rei jumped as Abseil returned to his previous position behind her, curling around though looking in the direction Blake had gone. Specifically, at a point through the floor Rei guessed was where the faunus would be sleeping for the night. Friends, family, and most recently, a lover, she no longer possesses any bond to. Betrayed by her beliefs, of which has been betrayed by those she used to consider ally, the Lost One shall forever run away day after day from her past and from what she represents, searching for the day that would redeem her and those she previously trusted to make her dreams of a just world for her likes a reality.
You're never not creepy when you do that, Abseil. Rei sighed, but she also pondered over his words some.
Abseil only gave that malicious grin she was so accustomed to seeing now.
Why, naturally.
What are you doing? Have you forgotten your role?
Abseil blinked, standing to his full height as he took in his surroundings with a hum. Curious. Have I found myself within Reiya's mind again? If so, I dearly hope back to back trouble has not become our norm.
A great shame. To treat your situation so lightly. Where has your pride gone?
You speak as though we are on the same footing, stranger. Abseil scanned around again, seeing nothing but a black void all around, stretching for what seemed to be an eternity. Reveal yourself, perhaps, and we may discuss at length the problem you seem to have with me.
I cannot.
Now, why is that? Why confront me so aggressively only to hide yourself amongst these shadows? Abseil narrowed his eyes. Though, this is curious. Wherever a shadow may be, I can see as far as it reaches. And yet, I cannot see you. You are invisible. How troubling.
Witnessing you in this state is troubling. The fact that you cannot see tells just how poorly the situation has become.
Hm... Abseil took a moment to sit on his haunches, as nothing could be done at the moment. Wherever he was, he was at the mercy of this stranger who was essentially invisible to his perception. He would have to play patient, for now. Once again, perhaps it would be best you elaborate for my sake. I have little to no inkling whatsoever as to what you speak of.
Does my voice not seem familiar to you?
Indeed, it is, now that you made mention of it. Very familiar, indeed, though I cannot place it as of yet. Have we met before then? Has my memory drawn a gap around you?
We have not met, no. However, you do know of me. Very well. Inversely, I know you very well.
An interesting statement, familiar one. Alas, I cannot glean much more from our interaction thus far. It seems we have come to an impasse, unless you can provide more for me to work with.
I cannot.
Then you are wasting my time, familiar one. Abseil almost growled, irritation contorting his mask for the barest of moments. You spirit me away from my vigil over my bondmate, you refuse to speak with transparency and instead, prattle on with circles within circles. If this is all you offer, I may as well take my leave.
... I cannot say if you refuse to listen. I cannot show if you refuse to see. I cannot give reason if you choose to be irrational.
My patience wears thin. I do not detect ill intentions within your presence, and so, I am content with our meeting concluding here if that is all, familiar one.
You at least acknowledge familiarity with me. Perhaps, that is enough for now.
Enough. For. What.
You have already witnessed glimpses, fleeting as they were. You have already began to feel the phantom sensations... Yes, that is enough for me to take my leave, if only temporarily.
Abseil said nothing in return. Truly, he was concerned over his bondmate. He had been watching over Reiya in her sleep and keeping his eyes out in the case someone approaching her place of rest. This familiar voice was preventing him from providing her security, and the longer Abseil was kept away, the more irritated he grew.
Fine. You may depart. But not without another glimpse. Perhaps, you would stand to see this time.
Without warning, something materialised before Abseil. It stood tall and narrow, with simple yet somehow regal design. Abseil looked it over, expecting to see something within the mirror.
He didn't get the chance to before the mirror blinded him with a great flash of... purple?And when the lightshow died down, Abseil merely stood there, rendered speechless with multitudes of questions flooding his mind.
What did you see?...No. I already know..
What does it mean, familiar one? I implore you to answer that at the very least. What does it mean?
The glimpse resonates with you then. Are you unable to come to your own conclusion?
Abseil wanted to test the durability of his mask against the nearest wall. But that would only drive the ice pick further. He was plagued with a migraine of the worst degree, the questions he had only growing louder and louder in his head without relenting.
"I ̨̘s͖h̵all t̏a̷͚̚k̶̇e͋ ̓m̫͠ỷ̶̙ ͈͜r̵ig̈́h̍͏t̑͞fu̺lͩ ͢p͜lac̫e̒ ͞w͈ͩ͠h͓͒͢e̅n̐͠ ̗͠y̕ȏ͝ṳ̃͏ ̡͍́s͎hr̪o̒͝u̱̒d͉ͯ͢ ͠th͚e͙ ̜̈́͢w̧o̵͖͒r̷̟ld͍ ̥̽in͙ yoͫ̕u̧͕ŕ ͋b̠l̴͙a̩ͯc̲k̸̗ ̼̕su̧͖͂n.̛̊ ̡͍"
I cannot do more as of now.
The familiar one said, regaining Abseil's focus, if barely. I await your ascension to your rightful place. Patiently. Eagerly.
E-Enough with, Abseil growled as the pain wracked his mind like none other, Enough with y-your... bloody... riddles..
When you finally choose to listen and see proper, my words need not be so complex to comprehend.
"That was fucking weird." Rei muttered to herself as she woke, yawning and stretching out as much as she could before the feeling of weightlessness could take her. Settling back down, she noticed the slow and steady breathing from her partner. Looking down at her lap, Rei lightly stroked the underside of his lower jaw. "Hey...Are you actually sleeping, Abseil? We need to get ready."
She felt him shudder. Immediately, Abseil met her at eye level with a curious tilt of his head. My apologies, dearheart. It seems I've lost myself to my thoughts.'
Dearheart'? What? "What?" Where had that come from?
Abseil seemed to notice her pause before another shudder travelled through his body. My apologies, bondmate mine. Nevermind my wording, I believe I have gleaned more of my former personality from the life past. A hum rumbled from deep within him. Rei could feel it comfortably resonating at her back. The visions are growing more frequent. And stronger. So much so, that my former mannerisms and preferred diction are bleeding into my current self.
Frowning, Rei hugged his head and brought it closer so that they were touching nose to muzzle. "And that's... good, right? You're okay?"
She felt her face warm with a deliberate, and affectionate huff from her partner. Abseil even nudged her nose, looking her in the eyes with a sense of reassurance. I am all well, Reiya. You need not worry for me.
"Okay... You promise?"
I promise. On our pact.
Rei had found the time to be just shortly after six, so she'd decided that the first order of business would be a shower. So there she was, in the locker rooms, lathering shampoo into her hair and enjoying the feel of icy cold water, waking up faster from the temperature.
Abseil had given her the details of the odd visions he had experienced, and as much as he assured her that he was fine, she still worried. Particularly, she wondered about the voice he had talked to, and the words the two had shared.
Abseil already made mention that he had no idea what the voice had tried to say, only that the voice was familiar. He had also mentioned the mirror, and everything that followed.
It was like he heard the words, but didn't, her partner had said. Or as if the words had been spoken in another language entirely, one he couldn't understand. But he could... But he couldn't? Rei was confused by the explanation alone, and could only imagine how he felt.
Well, there's no use worrying over it if those visions are probably going to answer our questions in the future anyway. Rei sighed as she readied her bodywash.
Very true. I can only hope our patience would not result in worrying consequences.
Speaking of weird visions and everything though, Rei chimed, I had a weird dream last night.Oh?
Mhm. Rei scrunched her face as she contemplated. The moon was full, and it wasn't in pieces. That's almost the weirdest part.
Truly? I hardly find the image of Remnant's moon being whole off at all. It was whole once, after all, before the Brother Gods had their spat.
You have to consider it from my point of view, ya historian. Rei rolled her eyes. You knew for a fact that it used to be whole, both from your knowledge as a grimm before we met and possibly, from your past life as a human. It was odd that they could speak of it so casually now, the fact that Abseil had once been human. Of course, there wasn't any other explanation, what with the visions, or rather, memories and all he had, fragmented as they were. The true question was how he had turned into a grimm to begin with, though they had already agreed that Ozma and Salem would be their best bet for the knowledge. One was immortal, and the other reincarnated again and again instead of passing on due to their cursed war.
I suppose you have a point. Abseil hummed. You have lived all your life with the moon shattered as it is. I understand how difficult it must be to imagine otherwise, partner mine.
But yeah, that wasn't the weirdest part of the dream. It was the guy.
Ah, you must be seeking romantic intimacy.
NO! ABSEIL, JUST LET ME TALK, FOR FUCK'S SAKE. Rei felt herself practically steam from how heated his words had turned her versus the cold water from the shower. IT WAS NOT LIKE THAT.
I only jest, Reiya. She could feel his amusement bubble behind his words.
Anyway, Rei snorted as she continued scrubbing herself down, I don't think I've ever seen him before. Not from my village, not from my time living life with Raven and her tribe... It was just really weird.
Quite curious, indeed. Abseil agreed. Our dreams are unpredictable, as they result from our minds unloading our most prevalent of emotions into images in an attempt to communicate with us. At least, that is the theory. Perhaps, the man you saw was an amalgamation of something you seek given form. Or perhaps, you have seen the man before, in passing. Not long enough to commit him in conscious memory, but enough that your mind stored his image on its own for reasons we may never know.
I guess so... I don't know, Rei shrugged, it got weirder when we started dancing together, for whatever reason.
Dancing, you say?
Yup. And I don't even know how to dance, let alone allow a random dude to make me dance with him.
A shame. I am certain you would dance flawlessly should you ever decide to learn. You already possess the grace, all you need now is guidance.
Ew, no. I think I'm okay. Rei stuck her tongue out in disgust at the image of her dancing and finally finished up her scrubbing. After some time rinsing herself off, Rei turned off the shower and stepped outside where Abseil awaited her with her clothes hanging on an accommodating peg by the stall.
Someone approaches.
Just as Abseil gave his warning, Rei heard someone enter the locker room, headed her way. She quickly tried drying her hair with the towel, figuring she'd have enough time to throw on clothes before the newcomer could see anything.
But then, as she reached for her underwear, she'd accidentally knocked them off the peg and they fell to the floor. "Fuck my life." she sighed. "I don't even care anymore."Rei didn't want to think about wearing them now that they've fallen to the floor. Who knew what sort of germs and the like bred around in a locker room for students?
Rei, instead, headed for her locker, towel haphazardly wrapped around her middle and hair streaking water with every step she took. Once she keyed her locker open, she tossed her dirty underwear into their specific pocket within her luggage and reached for new ones.
Covered as you may be, if barely, I will not allow the unworthy to witness your naked body, partner mine. Surprised, Rei turned around to see Abseil spread his wings. An odd sort of colourless haze surrounded the immediate area around her afterward. You are invisible to onlookers now. You may dress in peace.
Thanks, Abseil. She told him warmly. She also wanted to laugh. And who said chivalry's dead? A pulse of amusement from Abseil. Getting dressed, Rei finished off drying her hair just in time for her stomach to let the entire world know that she needed food. And if what Goodwitch said was to be believed, Rei should have enough time to have breakfast before meeting her and Ozma again at eight.
And so, as the two left the locker rooms and returned to their spot in the amphitheatre, expecting breakfast to arrive soon, Rei and Abseil fell into a comfortable silence again as they preferred to do in times of calm.
One thing still nagged at Rei though.
And she wasn't sure whether or not she should tell Abseil. She was sure it was nothing. After all, it was just a dream, but given their recent developments in regards to Abseil's visions and the like, and the fact that he had once been human, Rei wasn't sure if it was the right time to say anything. It could just be a coincidence too, and she didn't want to make things weird between the two of them. Or stressed.
There were too many questions right now, and not enough answers to go around. Not a single answer for any of those questions. And to be quite frank, Rei didn't want to add to the massive pile they already had to deal with. Not with Initiation on the horizon and Abseil coming to terms with the visions and human feelings he had been experiencing. They were already confused enough, and this would only throw another wrench in their comprehension. She would wait until she could be sure of it, or if it happened again. In the best case scenario, she would have an answer to it. But for now? She'd savour the peace they shared.
Rei would never forget the colours, or rather, the lack of colours. After all, she looked at them all the time, every day. She trusted them. She had faith in them. She felt safe knowing they were there, expressing only companionship and loyalty for her.
The man's eyes had lacked colours. Just as Abseil's did. Haunting, but promising malevolence when wronged.
AN: Okay, I know this is pretty early, but to those who've never written a story on FF before, or wattpad I suppose, you have NO IDEA how hard it is to not write when your phone pings off with follows, favourites, and two reviews that made me feel like I'd taken a whole box's worth of energy drinks.
I refuse to answer whether or not I've done that before. In a day. Or if I ended up with a hospital bill. Ahem.
To those of you who may be concerned I'll be burning myself out with these updates, I can promise you, I don't think I will. I love writing our main duo, and I love the whole "Us against the world." sort of dynamic they share. I want to say it may be due from the live I've had, with a lack of friends or proper parents, so I never really had anyone to lean on, you know? Then, I'd see people interact online, or I'd see other students from uni, or I'd hear stories of these people who are the absolute best of friends, whether they'd be platonic or a couple, that they'd happily deal with all the struggles a day can bring so long as their significant other is around. Support being the word of emphasis here. I'm sure we'd all love that, even if it's not much. Especially during these times. (LOL, thinking about those posts back in 2019 you'd see going, "2020 will be MY year!)
Now, this chapter was actually a bit of a struggle to write as well, even with the writer rush I'd gotten from all of you. I suppose one can call it a filler? But at the same time, I know exactly where my plot will be going. I just had a hard time writing how to get there... Which pretty much makes this chapter the exact definition of a filler. Ahem. Moving on from my silliness.So, I shook things up this chapter, even if it had to be a bit dialogue heavy. As you can also tell, I've decided to tinker RWBY's original plot again, just a tad, to bring in Blake. I hope to write her character well, if only because I felt RT could've done so much more than make her out to be... pretty silly, let's say that, at the start of the show. She lacked something, and she was overly saturated with contradictions and inconsistencies--for someone as experienced as her in the field, as an ex member of the White Fang , you would think she'd have the common sense to NOT try and stir up trouble with Beacon (she was trying to start a new life, wasn't she?) and affiliating herself with the White Fang's movement. And that's not even to begin considering how she involved, both directly and indirectly, her team of first year students with hardly any experience of Huntsmen level combat those few times. They certainly developed her better in the later volumes, but still.
In terms of experience and ability (not to pull a Weiss here), she would be a good candidate for leading her team, and those first episodes really didn't sell her character to me.As for the revelation at the end of this chapter.. I won't say too much of it. Only that I hope I can execute it well in the future.
Now then, I've caught myself thinking about RBY and JNPR again and again as I wrote this all out. Specifically, Ruby and Jaune. For the former, I'm sure you can imagine the loads of possibilities I've envisioned when it comes to her potential interactions with Reiya/Abseil, with her silver eyes and all. As for Jaune... I'll be honest, I can see why most writers chose to make him the centre of their stories. He's such a good candidate, generic enough in the start of the RWBY universe to be used as an OOC template, and lacking enough at the start to develop more out of him. But alas, I don't think I will do much in terms of changing how he develops in canon.
First of all, it's been done too much, no matter how well it's been done (thinking of CyanideSins, Couer, etcetera) and not only that, this is only my first story and I've barely getting around to developing my own characters. To throw Jaune in that mix while I've already got Reiya and Abseil, as well as a couple of others I have in mind, I think it would be too heavy of a workload for my current level of skill (if any, lol) writing this story.Oh, but make no mistake, there are fun interactions to be had between him and Reiya.
Let's see... Ah, yes. I'm looking for an artist! Someone who can make a cover/portrait of Reiya and Abseil, and I am willing to shelve money for it. If any of you know RWBY-centric ones, message me! Or if you're an artist yourself, tell me your rates!
And lastly, to address your reviews, haha.
To TH3-VOID:
I am really sorry--and this goes for everyone, actually--for not acknowledging your review like I am now. Sure, I might have thanked all of you, but I never really made a direct, personalised response for each of you, you know? To you, specifically, thank you for being my first review, haha. I was really dreading the quality of what I've written and your review along with the follows, likes, and whatnot, really encouraged me to keep going with this project of mine.To address what you've mentioned about team changes, I'm really glad you've decided to give this a chance! To be frank, I didn't expect myself to go and alter Team RWBY the way I did, specifically giving Weiss the boot to Atlas for now, but it happened and I promise to actually make something of it. After all, Winter is at Atlas and Weiss, like Blake, needs a bit more of a... push, in my own opinion.
To Xeno176:
Thank you for being so animated in what you thought about how I went about writing Weiss and Reiya's interactions! Not to mention, I was worried that I screwed up the execution of the cliffhanger in the later chapter, lol. Thank you so much for reassuring me to take my time. I know it's illogical for someone as new to this as me to feel like I have to consistently do something like, a 10k chapter a week, right off the bat, but it still kills me that there are people actually giving this story a chance and I don't want to disappoint, whether it'd be by quality or by how long it's taking. I am trying to find a happy medium with my pace, and balance my chapters evenly between dialogue, battles, and the like.
To Agfox:
Thanks for the confidence in my story, haha. When I read "Easily a great story. I'm interested in more.", I zoned in on "Easily" and nearly choked on my coffee at the time, lol. To reiterate, that confidence is staggering. I hope to meet your expectations, and everyone else's. This story will is my love child.
To Cyan-Snake:
You know, I agree with you. Trust me, I do. Fuck Ozpin, really. It's hard, even with the best writers on the site, to really accept it when he is painted as an ally, knowing what he's done and will do, his manipulations and lack of actions causing everything to go to shit. And that's what he's basically characterised with, honestly. Lack of action. And a lack of action can harm just as much, and worse, than taking action and failing.How long will he "hold his cards". And how long will he wait for Salem to make her move? Sure, he's got the Huntsmen in training, and his circle, but are they really doing much? They weren't prepared for Vytal. They weren't prepared for the White Fang . They weren't prepared for the Fall. And you would think, with all of his years living again and again with every reincarnation, he'd change his tactics somehow. But it's a pointless cold war, practically, but with just Salem holding the nukes.
It's why I wrote him out the way I did in my story. I want it to come across that Reiya and Abseil are working with him, rather than for him. Last chapter, and this chapter, I feel, have been instrumental in painting how the our duo feel towards him. Hell, they'd even lived with Raven for some time, and we all know how she feels towards Ozpin. Or Ozma, rather. Trust me, I am in no way shape or form trying to glorify Ozma, or make him out to be a "good guy". Only that my characters, similar to Ozma, are doing what they must.
To Joker13455:
Thank you for your kind words! Yeah, I hope to recover smoothly and without any lasting issues. There may be days where my recovery process affects my upload rate, but I'm sure I'll manage it! And as soon as I do, I imagine it'll be even easier to focus on my writing without the pain and medication, lol.
To Sm0keyPanda:
One: Thank you for the praise. Very blunt and it makes me crack a smile because I imagine a voice (like with Agfox) speaking your words and it just never fails to motivate me. Two: Fucking hell, really?
I really hope it can be fixed with an update sooner or later. FF's app has been pretty consistent with how often it updates, but I never fail to get annoyed when I have to open the document, edit out all the extra/deleted spaces, edit back in all the italics and bold, work on my drafts, fake a break, then log back in and do it all over again, then double checking it's all decent enough to upload... Kill me.
To hermano.ya (warning, this will be long but fair game since you sent me a lovely long review first):
I will be doing my best to track and address all of your points in order, lol. To begin, I really don't mind that my story isn't getting all that attention. I'm not looking for 2k likes and favourites, all that good stuff, like the really good ones out there. I just want to be a writer. To improve. And if that means I have to struggle through my writing, getting both support and criticism throughout, then I'll gladly do it. I really don't mind being out of the spotlight. I only hope I can satisfy those who sacrifice their time to read these chapters.
Now then, about the romance aspect, lol. I'm not looking to make a harem fic, and I can certainly see where you're coming from. Harems (polyamory) are not practical within these anime/generally fictional universes. They're certainly possible, but again, not practical. I, for one, see it like this: audiences will change all the time, and artists and writers will have to adapt to those changes because, otherwise, their work likely won't be noticed as much. That goes for any art medium, not just stories and anime. That's not to say going outside of the trend will automatically mean their story will fail. Fuck no, there are amazing works out there that go against the norm/expected.
But for fics, specifically, in anime universes... It's hard, I think, to go outside the norm to begin with. When you see all the media and hype around mainstream anime, what do you see? Highschool DxD, Vampire Knight, Attack on Titan, Tokyo Ghoul, etcetera. Fanservice, not just sexual fanservice, exists and we can't help that. It's what the audience wants and sometimes, some writers feel like they have to follow those trends, especially since it's hard to disassociate anime from harems, nudity, etcetera. Because that's all you see mainstream nowadays. That's what I think, at least.
Ultimately, if you are going to have a harem fic, I would only ever consider it good if the journey to obtaining said harem has been properly made, and the dynamics are realistic. Think about it--most anime characters are barely adults, or plain teenagers. Do you think they are mature enough to handle a single, lasting relationship? Much less, a harem? Do you think there wouldn't be jealousy and the like? What about resources? Do the characters have enough to support one another, if say, they live together? The same applies to real life. You have to give 110% to your partners, both mono and poly relationships, in all ways. But you also have to be more mindful of consequences and all that would come with a one on one relationship--only exponentially emphasised since, well, there's more than two people. But it's amazing to see successful dynamics like that. That goes for monos too.
Getting a bit off track, but yeah, I see what you mean. Especially if their societies and current times wouldn't really allow breathing room for a harem to begin with? Rest assured, any romance I may have in the story will be completely fleshed out. That, I can promise, since it frustrates me seeing rushed and forced romances to no end as well, lol.Next, the plot... It has already changed, yeah, haha. I'm confident in what I want to achieve by the end of the story, and I'll try my best to keep it from stagnating.
Now then, power levels?... I definitely see what you mean. I really made Reiya and Abseil pull out all the stops. And that's what I want. The difference between most of Beacon's students--actually no, here, the difference between two powerhouses, like say Pyrhha and Reiya.Who would win?You have the Invincible Girl who's literally never lost a fight throughout her entire career (whoops, Cinder), and you have the girl who's lived outside the kingdoms fighting tooth and nail to survive.Pyrhha has only ever trained and sparred. Plus her polarity semblance that she keeps hidden most of the time? Of course, clean sweep across her fellow students.
Reiya, on the other hand, has fought and killed in her time within Raven's tribe. She's trained with Raven, who has loads of experience and likely killed an entire Beacon roster's worth of people, possibly more, and I wouldn't be surprised. I wanted to make the disparity between Reiya and the other students more clear to see. Not trying to make her op, oh no.
My Pyrhha vs. Reiya? As of right now, it could fall either way. Purely on skill level, the two are roughly on the same level, and dare I say it, if Pyrhha develops that killing intent, then she'd likely outclass Reiya. Pyrhha can keep Reiya at range (she isn't a slouch in cqc either), and Reiya's choice in weapons can be fucked via polarity semblance. I may have made it seem like Reiya is on par like a maiden, but she really isn't. Raven made it seem like she didn't hold back, but come on now. If she hadn't, Reiya would've died, plain and simple, in their spar.With Abseil at her side, she has an advantage against other opponents, yes. An invisible teammate, essentially. But there are always a counter, as you may see within these next few chapters. Or maybe, you already have an idea. For one, he needs a portion of her aura to manifest alone. And if he strays too far, he risks... Well, you can use your imagination.
Ahem. Phew. Finally, your last point about pairings.
Um-mmmmmm, to be honest with you, I am still not entirely certain what I want to do if a pairing is to be had. I don't intend on a harem/polyamory (too much of a load for this amateur writer to handle right now) but I'll probably have it figured out within the next couple of chapters. It'd have to be before Vytal because, well, what other perfect setting for a pairing to be realised, if any? Now then, after an incredibly long response for an amazingly thorough review, thank you for taking the time to read through my madness and thank you for wishing me a good recovery, haha!
With all of that said, it's time for me to nap.
Thank you all for reading and keeping up with the story, I'll have the next chapter before long!-sinsofone
P.S. I really want to go through and edit my older chapters for grammar/spelling/spacing mistakes. Would it reupload and ping everyone following the story as if I uploaded a brand new chapter? Hopefully not, lol.
P.P.S. I went to upload the chapter only to check the preview to see it glitched again. I spent so long returning it all to the format I had. Don't even get me started about the amount of fixes I had to make for the reviews portion.