I do not own RWBY

Atlas Pt. 1.

(Meeting)

The wind blew the long bangs of her hair as Ruby exited the airship behind Yang. She almost giggled as the feather in her hair brushed against her neck, but she held it back. Today was the day she'd finally get to see her people again, well, minus Blake. She'd have to track down the cat separately which meant going to Menagerie. That was going to be fun as long as none of the faunus tried to kill her for being human. There were always extremists running around trying to murder every human they saw. She would just love to teach them a lesson. The faunus of the White Fang had learned quickly not to attack her during the Fall, although she'd tried to leave most of them alive.

Smirking Ruby reached back to adjust the long silver hairpin holding her hair in a bun; it was her new weapon. A thin anti aura blade disguised as a simple hairpin; she loved it already. She'd decided to name it Petal for the intricate engraved falling petals on the metal. Nic had also done wonders on her outfit orders especially the heeled boots she now wore; she was taller in them just by a little, they also had blades added to the heels. Was it bad she felt that she still needed more weapons?

Shivering in the cold Atlas air she was suddenly happy about wearing three layers of shirts, but mainly for the turtleneck sleeveless shirt. Atlas seemed very stale and pristine, but it was cold as hell. Straightening her jacket and zipping it up she wondered how her sister could walk around without a jacket. Hell, she felt frozen even with her jacket on. Pouting slightly, she rubbed her arms hoping to stay warm long enough to reach the building. Sending a glare at her sister she tried to pretend she wasn't turning into a popsicle. Atlas could stay under the control of Ironwood; she didn't want it.

"How can you not be cold," she asked the blonde hoping to learn a secret to not freezing to death. Yang laughed making her eye twitch. For a moment she considered strangling the older girl but instead rolled her eyes.

"It's not that bad kid," Qrow said looking around for their escort; he was willing to bet it would be Winter; James was just sadistic enough to send the Ice Queen.

Rolling her eyes Ruby looked around the courtyard with thinly veiled annoyance. There was snow everywhere, did that not cause a tripping hazard. Don't get her wrong she liked the snow but there was just too much of the stuff. How did these people stand to be cold all the time and why were they obsessed with blue and white? Both colors were far too bright to hide the blood. Not to mention just high up the city was from Mantel. In short, she didn't like Atlas.

"When's Ironwood getting here," Ruby asked. She was just done with the entire situation, when he shrugged, she felt her eye twitch. She was here to check on her friends not wait around for Ironwood to remember they were here, frowning she said, "I'm not waiting for James."

Stalking off, she sighed. Maybe she was too tense to be here right now. There was so much that she had to do yet, she felt as if she was drowning. First, she had to go see her people, then she had to go and collect Ciel. Then was the trip to see Penny. The entire situation was just too complicated and annoying not to mention the man she was supposed to meet soon. Sighing she looked down at her gloved hand. There was also the fact that her aunt was going to train her to use a sword, yet she hadn't seen the woman yet.

Shivering again, she frowned before glancing around. Her father and Yang hadn't followed her; probably for the best considering, she might snap at them. The cold reminded her of the cellar. Shoving her hands into her pockets she tried to pretend that she wasn't troubled by the blood on her hands and how it made her no different than Dante. See progress she could think his name now without panicking. Spotting Cardin, she felt an immediate rush of relief that vanished the second she noticed the dark eyepatch he was wearing.

Indigo met silver as they stared at each other; her heart froze. Just like always, she was able to connect the dots easily and it caused something inside her to shatter. He'd gotten hurt for her; not just hurt, he'd lost a part of himself. Moving toward him quickly she hesitated; usually, this was the part when she hugged him. His injury was her fault. If she hadn't sent him after Blake, then he would be fine right now instead he'd lost an eye. She'd ordered him to save her kitten but was it worth it. Was Blake's safety worth this? She didn't know and that caused her stomach to twist. Watching him walk toward her with an unreadable expression on his face; she found herself terrified. What if he hated her for causing him to get hurt?

The only thing that kept her from running away was the strong arms that wrapped around her. Relaxing almost instant she felt her rampant worries vanish as he held her tightly; right this was Cardin. He would never hate her, just like she would never hate him. Gripping the uniform jacket, he wore tightly, she buried her face in his chest as he laid his chin on her head. Breathing in his scent she closed her eyes; this was her Cardin. The first friend she'd made in either of her lives; he would never hurt her. She was safe with him.

Her heart ached. She knew the opposite wasn't true. She'd chosen Blake over him at Beacon and he could've died. That wasn't something she could ever forgive herself for. He wasn't just some lackey to be thrown away, he was the only person in this world that understood her. That made him the most important person in her life. He was her brother, and she would never ask him to get hurt again.

Pulling away slowly, she saw the knowing glint in his eyes. He knew exactly what she was feeling yet she also saw forgiveness. He shouldn't forgive her for this, but he did while she couldn't even apologize because she didn't know if she regretted it. Sure, she felt guilty, but it had gotten the result she'd wanted; she was a horrible person.

"I love you," she said with as much conviction as she could put in her voice.

"I love you too."

He didn't even hesitate to say the words and part of her wished that he would. Moving closer to him she raised a hand slowly before hesitating. What if she hurt him again? His hand grabbed her own before she could let it fall. Stilling completely as he guided her hand to rest against his scarred face, she wanted to cry. He trusted her completely despite everything; she didn't deserve that. Gazing up at the man who leaned into her open palm she knew he deserved the world; she would give it to him.

The thundering of Yang's footsteps brought them both back to reality causing them to move away from each other. Later they would discuss what he thought of Adam and his experience at Beacon, but right now she had to see to the others. Putting a smirk on her face she turned to greet her sister who looked horrified at the dark scar on Cardin's face. For a moment Ruby wanted to snap at the blonde but she shoved that feeling down. Horror was a common reaction after all. Watching her father pat Cardin on the shoulder, she wasn't a bit surprised that he waved off the gesture. It wasn't arrogance but pride that kept him from accepting anyone's pity; a pride that she also had.

"Let's go see the others," she said bringing attention to their current task. Once that was done, she could suffer in her own guilt. Cardin hesitated letting her know that he was using his semblance to read her emotions.

"As you command," he said giving a mocking bow. Ruby rewarded the gesture with a laugh much to his joy. Grinning at her he sent a nod to Qrow before starting to lead them through the building.

Qrow saw it all. Just this once he would praise the younger man for making his daughter happy. Ruby was complicated, just like her mother. He was willing to bet that while Yang was only worried about her teammates, Ruby was worried for all of them. She cared too much about people and people were cruel. He hoped that she was never betrayed by those she loved; he was afraid that would break her. The worst day of his life would be the one when his daughter broke into pieces, he would rather die than live to see such a thing.

Cardin stopped outside a plain white door and glanced back at her. He knew that she blamed herself; they both knew that on some level that belief was true. She'd allowed the Fall to happen but they both knew she didn't regret that. They'd tried to protect their people as best they could while allowing Cinder to have her special day. Now it was time to lick their wounds before standing back up for their attack. The next time war came knocking, they would be the ones it worked for not the other way around. He waited until she nodded to open the door. For that she was grateful.

The Atlas Academy infirmary was better stocked than most hospitals; mainly because it was one. Unlike most the floor wasn't a sterile white that made her head hurt, it was a calming beige color that contrasted with the baby blue walls. It looked nice, but she didn't care much about interior decorating. Her eyes searched out her teammate with growing dread only to find his sitting beside Pyrrha's bed.

His blonde hair was messier than usual but that was nothing compared to how tangled it was. Eyeing his slumped form, she winced knowing how he felt. She didn't need to see his vibrant blue eyes to know that they were hallowed and hurt. Once she'd worn the same eyes. That knowledge alone was enough to draw her rage at Ozpin to greater heights. Jaune was sweet, honest, and loyal he didn't deserve this. Cutting her gaze to her partner; she gritted her teeth. Laying on the bed hooked up to so many wires that it hurt to look at was Pyrrha. For the first time since they met Pyrrha looked weak. The redhead who held the title of the invincible girl was fragile; Ruby's knees trembled.

Stumbling forward in a movement that got Jaune's attention, her world came to a screeching halt. She wanted to be angry so that the pain couldn't hurt her, but all she could do was crash down into Jaune's arms. The blonde didn't hesitate to pull her close despite the pain that tugged at his own heart. Holding each other tightly the two teammates didn't even care that they were being watched.

Cardin sighed this was the most emotional he'd seen the blonde boy in weeks; it was horrible that having the blonde cry into her shoulder was progress. The despair curling around them both was sickening but it was natural. In all the time they'd spent at Atlas no one had told them anything about Pyrrha's condition; the words 'I don't know' were the best they'd gotten. He'd hoped that the girl would wake up before Ruby arrived, but she hadn't. Glancing around he saw the same brown-haired doctor watching them closely.

Aiden Kane sighed at the sobs that filled the air. Tightening his grip on the files in his hand he frowned. It was nice that Pyrrha had gotten some visitors other than Jaune, but he was more than a little annoyed that they'd interrupted his coffee break. Looking them over he felt a bit curious. From what he'd read of Pyrrha's file the petite girl was her team leader; he hoped she was strong. While he had no doubt Pyrrha would wake up, it would take a while. The blonde was the girl who shot out Mercury Black's leg; of course, she'd been framed. They knew that now that Cinder's team had been exposed for planning Beacon's Fall. Still, he would rather her not be near his flammable equipment. The man was Qrow Branwen a huntsman of the infamous team STRQ. It was an interesting assortment of people in his hospital.

Meeting Cardin's gaze he felt the demon inside him purr at the dangerous look the man sent at him. Right well, he was going to lock that back in its cage. Sitting his files on his desk, he offered Qrow a nod before moving to check Pyrrha's vitals. Just like always, she was stable with no indication of waking up.

"Hey doc," Cardin, said causing Ruby to pull away from Jaune and look over at the man.

Aiden frowned but made no move to run, he doubted they would let him get away. Although it would be easy to slice apart their throats with the scapple in his pocket; no, he wasn't going to kill them. He was a doctor. If anything, the demon inside pouted at the reminder before going to sulk. Flickering his eyes to the redhead who was wiping away her tears he noted the weaponized pin in her hair along with the folded weapon on her waist and the dagger on his thigh. He could tell from the way she moved that she also had hand to hand training. He approved.

"Hello, my name's Ruby Rose," she said offering him her hand. Shaking her hand, he internally twitched as she smiled innocently. There was nothing innocent about the woman in front of him; not when she was barely containing her blood lust. His demon purred again finding the feeling she was directing at him delicious; if he was being honest, he felt the same. Releasing his hand Ruby said, "I'm sure you can tell us something about my teammate's condition."

"Sure, we know nothing. I've never seen a case like this, the best I can do is wait for something to change," he stated knowing that wasn't what she wanted to hear. For a moment her eyes narrowed becoming a glare. His demon would love to take her on; no, he was a doctor. Fighting was against the oath he'd taken. It was hard to remind himself of that when she glared at him so viciously. The expression on her face was adorable.

"So, you know nothing," she asked sounding frustrated.

"No, but it would help if I knew what happened in the first place," he stated. Something told him that she could answer that question for him. At the confused expression on her face, he explained, "Mr. Arc won't tell anyone."

"I see."

Shifting slightly toward the door, her eyes burned into him as he watched James stalk into the room with the grace of a rhino. Relaxing at the man's presence he offered him a small almost invisible smile before heading over to his desk. He still had more coffee to drink and paperwork to file. It didn't help that he hated one of those things and that James had assigned him to all the Beacon kids.

"Miss. Rose, it's good to see you again, although I would have like to see you at the landing area," Ironwood greeted although he sounded more amused than anything else. He'd been looking everywhere for them. Glancing over at him she sighed before taking his offered hand.

Motioning for Cardin and Yang to stay with Jaune she nodded when the man offered to lead her to his office so they could talk. She would much rather stay with her teammates, but she still had things to do. Leading the two to his office he noticed how Qrow walked between him and Ruby. The action was so protective that he felt a bit threatened by it. He had no idea why Qrow would feel the need to protect Ruby form him, but he was starting to wish that Winter was still in Atlas rather than on her mission.

When he entered the office, he made sure to keep his back to them showing vulnerability in a hope to dissolve the tension. Qrow knew exactly what he was doing and so did Ruby who seemed to grow more amused as he sat down. Scoffing Qrow collapsed into one of the chairs in front of his desk with a lazy motion. The chuckle that left Ruby's lips did nothing to relax either of the men.

(Formality)

The room she'd been assigned made her feel uncomfortable. The large window gave a wonderful view of the city, but she didn't like being so far away from her team; the only reason she'd agreed to stay in this room was that she needed the status Ironwood provided. His guilt over Ozpin's action had led to him giving her support while she was in the Kingdom. He'd also managed to get her and two others of her choice into the Schnee gala happening tomorrow night; she'd chosen Cardin and Yang. Now the only issue was having something to wear; so she was planning to go shopping with them in the morning. Tonight, however, in less than an hour was her meeting with the Soleil family.

According to Ironwood, they were a minor noble family, that held waning power, they'd also loaned their daughter to Ironwood. It explained why Ciel had been so helpless during the Fall; it did not however invalidate her life debt. Ruby was going to have fun seeing who Ciel could be. Still, she couldn't exactly walk into their home in her combat gear; according to Ironwood, not that she would ever do something like that. He'd laid out a modified Atlas uniform for her hence the current situation.

Holding the white jacket, she was considering if she wanted to wear it. Her stubborn attitude had kept her from asking from tossing the dark red skirt that had far too many buttons, but this coat had tassels. How was she supposed to deal with tassels? Also, what did they make these clothes out of, it was like the cold didn't even touch her anymore. Finally deciding to just bite the bullet, she slipped her arms through the sleeves before stomping over to the mirror with furrowed brows. This looked... not horrible but way to formal for her liking.

The dark red skirt matched the long sleeve turtleneck she'd been given, but the shirt was far to tight. So, she was a confident person, but this shirt left little to imagine; so much so, that she felt a little uncomfortable. Buttoning up the jacket quickly she felt a little better, but it didn't help that she'd been denied her boots. Instead, he'd given her ankle-high heels so dark that they stood out against the white tights she'd been given. There was literally no where she could hide a weapon. The only one she had was her hairpin; it was annoying.

Holding back a sigh as her door opened, she turned slowly meeting Cardin's eyes as he entered. Watching his eyes widen she wondered if she really looked that horrible before tugging on the black tassel hanging from her shoulder. She was starting to think this was some kind of subtle revenge on Ironwoods part. If it was, she was going to stab him.

"You look-"

"Like an idiot," she said cutting him off. The smirk on his face was enough to let her know that he was going to enjoy this.

"Like a princess," he teased causing her to bristle. At least he'd come in after she buttoned her jacket.

"Lovely," she stated. The dry tone brought a grin to his face as she began to pace around the room. At that moment she was a caged lion rather than a girl.

She might hate the outfit, but he liked it. She looked regal but not like a princess. The attire was so clearly Atlas that she seemed like a darker version of Ironwood himself. His little rose looked like a queen; it would be fun when she showed them that she wasn't some delicate little flower to be dressed up. Something told him that someone would be bleeding before the end of the night. Speaking of making people bleed, they needed to decide what to do about Adam, but that wasn't something they could talk about here.

"Ironwood sent me to get you," he said never letting the grin fade from his face. The fact she tilted her head like an adorable puppy made it hard to remember she was a demon. Crossing his arms, he said, "apparently he wants to talk before letting you go off and terrify nobles."

"I would never do that."

The false innocence in her tone wasn't even slightly convincing. There was no way she was going to do anything other than becoming a horrifyingly terrifying force of nature. Raising an eyebrow, he wasn't shocked that her expression quickly morphed to dark amusement. Yeah, someone was definitely going to bleed tonight. It was a shame he had to stay with their teams instead of watching the show.

"Let's go see what the General wants," she said allowing her face to fade into something more presentable.

How should she act tonight? While she could be the perfect polite lady, where was the fun in that? She would rather cause a scandal than act like a lady. It was more fun that way, besides she needed to live up to her nickname of demon didn't she.

Ironwood was waiting at the entrance of the Academy with a sheathed sword in his hand. It looked expensive with thin snowflakes trailing down the sheath. Even the hilt was wrapped with what seemed like fine leather. She didn't trust it; especially considering that he was currently holding it in her direction. There was no way he would just give her a weapon like this while not allowing her to have her own. He was playing a game here that she didn't understand; part of her wanted to cut it short. Where would be the fun in that?

Raising an eyebrow, she took the sheathed sword and belt before hooking it around her waist without hesitation. The look of complete trust and faith on her face was a complete lie; she would never trust Ironwood. Forcing back an amused scoff as he introduced her escort for the night, she considered calling him out on his game but decided not to. If he wanted to play, then she would play. Turning her attention to the two men, she offered them a harmless smile. Marrow and Clover both members of the Ace ops returned her expression with one of their own. She could tell that only Marrow had a genuine smile. This was going to be fun.

(Soleil Manor)

The Soleil manor was amusing. They were obviously trying to broadcast wealth but had no actual wealth. The decorations were nothing compared to the Academy, but she wasn't about to bring that up unless they ticked her off. Then she would ruin them for daring to annoy her. Did she sound insane? Maybe just a bit.

Her escort thought she was weird; she could see it in their eyes. She didn't mind too much considering she was skipping down the hallway behind a faunus servant. Her grin was totally fake, but they had no idea just how dangerous she really was. The fact was, she'd come here to collect Ciel, gods help those that stood in her way. She'd already picked up on the fact the faunus was limping as he led her down the hall, that was enough to draw a bit of her anger, but she hoped that it was nothing. If they were abusing their servant, she might ruin them just for fun. She was a killer, not someone who would look the other way to something so wrong.

Nodding at the faunus, who couldn't even look her in the eye, she entered the office with the confidence of a predator. The man sitting at the desk was a lot thinner than she'd thought he would be. Seriously the word noble brought to mind a chubby man with thinning hair not the dark-skinned Adonis waiting for her. Letting her eyes flicker over his form she locked onto the blaring fact that he was missing an arm. Watching him stand and offer his hand she didn't hesitate to take it. This man wasn't what she was expecting, he was dangerous. Fun.

"I'm Aero Soleil and you're the girl that saved my sister."

His eyes were the same shade as Ciel's but much more interesting. Where Ciel had innocence in her eyes he was someone much more world-weary. His dark gaze matched his almost raven-colored navy hair that he'd pulled back into a warrior's braid; it just barely fell to his shoulders. There were burn scars on his shoulders and neck as well, but his grip was strong when she reached out to shake his hand. Raising an eyebrow as instead of simply shaking her hand he laid a kiss to the back of it, she had to fight to keep the smirk from her face. The way his gaze never left her own meant he could see through her act. He was interesting.

"Ruby Rose, Huntress Prospect."

"Yet you wear Atlas formal attire, is there perhaps a large bear pulling your strings," he asked the question without tearing his eyes from her own. Her escort had tensed but she didn't care; she was starting to like this man.

"Hardly," she stated ignoring the heated glare burning into her back. Tilting her head, she asked, "Where is darling, Ciel?"

"I assume you're here about the debt she owes you," he asked. His pace was slow was he moved around his desk to face her. Her pulse sped up as he said, "My sister is not a warrior, she has nothing to offer you."

"Perhaps, but that does not change the fact I saved her life," she stated pretending not to see the danger in letting him get to close.

"So, you refuse to annul the debt?"

"Well, your sister is very cute."

It was a mocking tone, the only sign that she'd been acting. His movement was almost in slow motion as he lashed out the rapier on his hip shinning a brilliant silver. The motion was so slow she could've easily dodged, instead, she dropped her act allowing a wicked smirk to appear on her face. He was trying to make a point not kill her. That was why his blade rested against the skin of her neck instead of piercing it.

"Ruby!"

"Miss Rose!"

Raising a hand, she silently told them to stand down as Aero judged her. This wasn't a fight; it was a test; they had no place interfering. Tilting her head back she waited for him to make a decision. He loved his sister; she could see that. He was a warrior who knew huntsman law and tradition; that made him interesting. She didn't want to have to ruin him, but she would if he didn't allow her to take Ciel. The girl belonged to her from the moment she chose to protect her, they both knew that fact. His gaze flickered as he lowered the sword with a sigh.

"You have cold eyes," he said softly.

"Ciel will be safe with me."

The promise in her words was enough to make him chuckle. Such a promise was foolish, but she wasn't about to break it. Neptune and Ciel would make an adorable couple; her shipping needs were very important. Besides, it wasn't as if anyone would be able to reach Ciel; she had no intention to have the girl fight.

"Very well I w-"

Eyes widening, she froze as a metal clang echoed in the room followed by hacking coughs. He stumbled back, hitting his desk as one hand covered his mouth. It was barely visible but she could see the blood staining the white fabric of his gloves as he struggled to control his heaving shoulders. Spinning to call for a medic, something soft brushed past her as Ciel rushed into the room. Ignoring the girl, she ordered either Clover or Marrow to find a doctor only for the same faunus servant to slide past her.

"Brother!"

Ciel was crying, her blue eyes clouded with tears as she gently lowered him to the floor. The girl wasn't wearing her gloves leaving the myriad of burns that decorated her skin on full display. Both the siblings had burn scars, the brother was missing an arm and likely had internal injuries. From the quick reaction, this was a semi-common occurrence. The Soleil family was dwindling in wealth it was likely from paying for his medical bills. It would explain the pills that were being shoved down his throat.

This wasn't something that she could kill. She couldn't wave her hand and make this go away for them; she was helpless. That wasn't a feeling she liked. Gritting her teeth, she scowled before noticing the sword laying on the ground. It was a huntsman weapon, he understood huntsman law. It was likely his injuries kept him from being a huntsman and that getting worked up could affect his condition. Was it her fault that he was struggling to breathe? She was trying to take his sister away did that somehow affect his condition?

Dropping to her knees, she picked up the sword gently. It was spotless, but she still noticed the nicks and scratches in the metal; he'd used this blade often. He was a warrior unable to fight; he was the living embodiment of her worst fear. He was helpless just like she'd been in her last life.

"Don't pity me."

The words were said with so much conviction that they couldn't possibly have come from a dying man. Flickering her gaze to his own she smirked; he was strong. Death was frightening for anyone and he was having a slow painful one, yet he was still feisty. She was beginning to like him.

"Never," she said ignoring the confused glance Ciel sent her.

This was not what she expected to walk into, but it was far more interesting than anything else. Watching him struggle to stand she did nothing to help, he would reject her aid. His pride alone was something to marvel at considering how much pain was in his gaze. He would've made a fine huntsman.

"I did this wrong; I expected some useless noble, not a strong warrior."

Her words brought a bloody smile to his lips only seconds before his servant handed him a glass of water. Her nose twitched at the scent of copper that filled the air when he spat the water back into the glass only it was a dark red color. Yes, this was a common occurrence. Dabbing at his mouth he looked disgusted at the swirling liquid as his sister flinched due to the sight. The dark blue pills his servant put in his hand along with a clean glass of water caused his nose to scrunch up.

"Don't be u-upset you'll find plenty of nobles in Atlas just like that," he said with forced confidence. Downing both items without hesitation.

"I'm looking forward to that," she stated. The dark promise in her voice was enough to make him smirk. Tightening her grip on his sword, she stopped just short of cutting herself. This man was worthy of respect; that wasn't something she gave out easily. Standing she offered him the blade hilt first only to tighten her hold when he tried to take it. Meeting his eyes, she made an oath, "I give you my word, on my soul, that nothing will happen to your sister. I would die first."

"I believe you."

How nice. Smiling she released the sword allowing him to lay it on the desk behind him. She would never break her oath.

"I'm not leaving," Ciel snapped. Clinging to her brother's side she met Ruby's narrowed gaze with a glare. She looked ready to fight.

"Ciel," he said. The amused tone was enough to gain her attention causing her innocent eyes to rip away from the silver-eyed reaper. His morbid smirk was fascinating as he said, "I don't think you following this girl would speed up my death any more than it already is."

"Th-"

"Live your life without worrying about me," he advised before she could argue. Biting her lip, the blue-eyed girl nodded slowly. Patting her head, he said, "Now, go pack your bags and get ready to leave. Anders will show Ruby to the courtyard to wait. I need to go get cleaned up."

The faunus nodded and motioned for them to follow. His action allowed her to notice the dark scar running across his throat for the first time along with the fingers missing on his hand.

(Ambush)

"Well, you two were useless."

The words caused Marrow to flinch while Clover simply bowed his head. Neither men made a move to explain their actions nor did they explain how flighty Marrow was acting. Catching the way his eyes darted to the shadows of the courtyard once again she followed his gaze. Someone was moving in the darkness. Sighing she rolled her eyes. Please don't let this be an ambush, she was in a good mood right now. Tracking the shadows with only half her attention she let her hand push back a stray strand of hair.

Ciel opening the door almost drowned out the sound of a crossbow being fired. Vanishing in a burst of petals she appeared in front of Ciel with the bolt held in her hand; her smirk was gone. Studying the plain-looking bolt she chuckled before snapping it in half as Ciel decided to do the smart thing and wait inside the building.

Turning her attention to the blonde woman she felt something inside her shift at the fact she was surrounded by four people. Each one except the blonde held staff like weapons; the blonde was obviously the leader. Flickering her eyes to Marrow and Clover, she wasn't all that surprised to see them gone. Instead of letting her hand slide to the hilt of the borrowed sword, she vanished. The three supporters would have to go first; her target was the smallest one, a faunus.

Appearing inches away from her she slammed her foot into the woman's stomach or that was the plan. Instead, the woman blocked with her staff, nice reaction speed. Diving around the staff she dropped to her knees kicking out at the woman's ankles. The yelp she let out as she fell was kind of cute especially considering her golden eyes widened in shock. Wrapping her hand around the white-haired woman's neck, she slammed her head into the concrete ground dazing her before leaning back.

The bolt that flew past her nose was a distraction allowing the largest of the women to lash out and land a hit on her ribs. Rolling with the momentum of the hit, she slid to her feet. It was easy to spin away from the wild movements of the woman who was trying far too hard to hit her. Grabbing the staff when the woman overreached, she tossed her over her shoulder before sidestepping the bolt. This one scrapped her cheek. Tossing the blonde a smirk she licked her lips before diving for the dark blue-haired woman who swiped at her neck.

Bursting into petals before her blow could land, she appeared behind the woman who froze. Lacing her fingers through the woman's hair she used her as a shield to block the swipe from the large woman who tensed. Guilt and shock colored her face when she watched her teammate crumble only to be forced back into the fight by Ruby spinning to kick at her face. The woman stumbled back her eyes widening as Ruby fell into a handstand to avoid another bolt. Wrapping her ankles around the woman's neck she twisted forcing the woman to come crashing down to the ground before vanishing once again.

Her footsteps were silent as she appeared behind the blonde woman; the decorative sword was unsheathed for the first time when she swiped at the woman's back. The blonde spun on her heel meeting the sword with the wing-like blades of her shield. For a moment the two stayed locked in place trying to shove each other back, then Ruby kicked off the ground letting the woman push her back. Landing she used the sheath of the sword to block another bolt before sidestepping a lunge from the woman. The blonde was better than the other three, but something was wrong. None of them had used their semblances.

Dancing away from the woman who was getting faster the longer they fought, she chuckled. So, this was Ironwood's game, how fun. Lashing out with the sword caused their weapons to meet in a shower of sparks allowing the blonde to see Ruby's eyes for the first time. They were filled with excitement. Twisting her wrist, the blonde caught the sword between two of the blades on her weapon; she was hoping to disarm the girl. Instead, the blade snapped.

Stumbling forward, Ruby didn't even hesitate to drop into a roll as she put distance between her and the woman. Glancing at the broken sword in her hand she narrowed her gaze; well, this was cute. This was a blade made to break. Chuckling she dropped the hilt allowing it to land with a thud. Rapid footsteps were approaching her direction while the blonde took aim. Instead of surrendering, she raised her hand pulling the hairpin from its place before activating her semblance. She couldn't win in a four on one fight, but that wasn't what this was. If the game wasn't fair, then change the game.

The cute faunus let out a startled yelp as Ruby appeared behind her. Holding the woman against her as a shield, the reaper pressed the sharpened blade against the woman's neck. All three of the others froze at the small line of blood trailing down to touch the woman's vest. Smirking Ruby met the blonde's dark eyes with a silent question.

Silence reigned in the courtyard while she waited for the blonde to make up her mind. The faunus was trembling, no doubt due to the sharp pain in her neck. All it would take was a twitch of her hand and the woman would be bleeding out on the ground. She had the advantage now simply because she was playing dirty; there was no such thing as fighting fair unless in a duel. This was not a duel.

"We surrender," the blonde announced as she put away her weapon. Exchanging glances, the other two did the same. Releasing the faunus, Ruby wiped the blood on the white jacket with just a little vindictive joy.

The loud clapping that filled the air as Ironwood stalked from the shadows was annoying. Sending him a glare while the faunus rushed to the blonde, her lips twitched into a smirk to disguise how she wanted to rip open his neck. Taking a deep breath, she rethreaded the hairpin with a grace she didn't feel. Part of her wanted to lash out at him for taking up her time with something so annoying but she held that back. He was still a general.

"Ruby Rose I'm glad to announce that you have passed your field combat test and will be awarded your Huntress License."

"What... oh you clever son of a bitch."


Hey guys my power went out for a while. Anyway here is the first chapter of the three part Atlas saga.

-Anyway stay safe and have a good day

-Shyla