HOWDY! It's been a LONG time since I've updated this fic. Over a year! Can you believe that?

Well, I'm really sorry for the wait and I apologize once more if the chapter didn't live up to the hiatus. I've been stuck on this chapter for an ungodly long time and I'm really, really, really sorry lol as I've said in some of my other updated fics, I've been busy with a lot of shit that's been happening since the last update. Y'know, covid and all. While I never caught it, I've been locked away in my house with nothing more than work to make me do anything.

So, as an update on some shit if it really matters to any of you; I'm a twitch streamer now and my second book is in the works to being published so I kinda mismanaged my time in the regards to writing fanfiction since really, this is just a hobby and a place to put story ideas. If anyone's interested in my twitch, just look up KenjiHayuten and if you do check me out, my discord is linked on my profile, I kinda want more friends to talk about RWBY with lol

ANYWAY, onto the new chapter!

Disclaimer: I don't own RWBY

Chapter 36: She Shows Herself

Jaune pulled away, forehead pressed against her own, bangs to bangs, warmth to warmth. Hands pressed against the headboard, the woman moaned sweet nothings, huffing with cheeks as red as her once crimson eyes. Metallic arm clutching his forearms for support, her legs danced and snaked around his waist, holding him in tight embrace. The likelihood of escaping her now was impossible. He continued, pushing and pushing, never once stopping even when he felt the very end of the hall.

The pair almost shouted together; he exhaled powerfully with a cascade of relief washing over him. Collapsing onto the woman, he buried his sweaty face between the mountains of her bust, relishing in the steaming heat rolling off of her trembling body. Giving her a soft kiss, he laid beside her, carefully pulling himself free from the embrace of her powerful tightening walls. A pair of blondes, idiots, red faced and blushing like teenagers. How he wished they could go back and start over again, how he wished that they could have more time.

"Jaune?" She asked, almost meek. Her voice quiet in the emptiness of their dark room. "Do…do you love me?"

Snapping at attention, he almost had to fight the of course, preparing to escape his lips. She needed something more definite, something more secure than simple words. Crawling over her once more, he lowered himself onto her, kissing her ever so passionately as he did for the last few hours, they found themselves together.

"Firecracker…I do." He smiled. Her robotic arm shifted, the rubber pad of the thumb rubbing against his cheek. He almost melted into her all over again. "Yang…"

Jaune.

Jaune.

Jaune.

Snapping his head up, Yang was bending in front of him, letting her bust almost slip free from her leather jacket. Endless curls of blonde hair fell over one shoulder, honestly, an angel of gold and fire. Her mouth was moving, but for some reason he couldn't remember just what it was that she said. "Did you hear me?"

Blue eyes flaked with red, slowly glanced over to her arms, finding them both of flesh. She was younger, a woman barely legal if he remembered correctly. That's what he was, a young man, barely legal himself. He was King. He was a man in control of millions, leading an army that defied the status quo of the Four Kingdoms. And here she was, the woman he missed the most. Lilac eyes curled softly, almost hidden behind black eyeliner and a small helping of mascara for her extended eyelashes.

"Sorry, I was thinking of something…"

"Let me guess, about five feet and wears a dress."

"It's a battle skirt, woman! How many times do I have to say it?!" They could hear from the bathroom.

"Sorry, Weiss-scream!" Yang called back, "I forget how loud you can screech."

"I wouldn't have to if you weren't such a dunce."

"Oh-ho, now she's trying to attack me," Yang cackled heartily, "you have Jaune now, princess, lighten up."

"I am a Queen now and unlike you miscreants, I intend to take things seriously from the get-go," Weiss responded, still hidden behind the bathroom door.

"Then why are you hiding? We literally wear the same things every day."

"H-Hey, my tops change!" Blake murmured, pulling at her shirt. Cat ears slowly twitched at the remark, "Sometimes?"

"Oh Blakey, you're fine. Weiss however, battle skirts." Yang wiggled her eyebrows. "What's taking so long? We're just going into town to have some needed girl time with the other Fireteams. It's been too long since we've had a chance to breathe without something fucking everything up."

The door clicked, revealing Weiss in something none of them knew she owned. Pants of corduroy that rose high above her waist was definitely something they weren't expecting. While not as royal as she usually appeared, high heels were an expected part of the order. Over her torso, a pale white blazer, with a cape hanging off her shoulders covered a wavy blouse, slightly tucked behind the waist and its line of buttons, "One, watch your language, two, I know we're just going into town before the Ball tonight, but as Queen, I have to make a lasting impression on the people I will undoubtedly encounter. Whether I wish to or not is a nonfactor. It is expected of me. As it is of you, Blake and Pyrrha."

The blondes were dumbstruck, silent at her declaration. Blake however winked happily, Weiss was definitely a breath of fresh air, compared to Yang's constant nonchalant and boisterous comments. The young Faunus Queen felt the same way, having a simple, but elegant outfit that would be befitting someone of her status. Thank the gods for Junior. The two women mentally praised. Without the old gangster, they knew they'd be hopeless. Yang was right after all. They do wear the same things every day.

"Well, consider me convinced, Weiss." Yang smirked, "Also, you seriously did not just say language. Let's go a little early – I wanna do some shopping. Can I borrow some money, Jaune? You know my dad doesn't–"

Jaune chuckled softly. "My wallet should be on my bedstand, take as much as you want, firecracker."

The blonde suddenly blushed hot. "W-Wait, are you sure?"

"The great Yang Xiao Long afraid of taking some money?" Jaune smirked. "It's no problem, I promise. Take what you want."

The mood of the room changed slightly. It was noticeable as soon as he mentioned money. Without warning, Yang simply nodded and walked away, almost dragging her feet across the floor. Opening the door, she disappeared. The Arc stood, turning and watching the space where she once was, confused and red faced with embarrassment. "W-What was that about?"

"I'm not too sure, but I'll talk to her." Blake set her book down and took off after her.

As she slid out of bed, she gave Jaune a knowing look and left as well. Closing the door, she immediately found Yang contemplating in the hallway, hand holding the doorknob before immediately retracting as if the door was white hot. The blonde didn't even seem to notice that Blake was behind her. Strange, the Faunus thought, Yang was afraid or at least nervous of something. That alone was worrisome.

"Yang?"

The woman immediately turned, a shit eating grin on her face. "What's up, Blake?"

"You've been staring at the door for almost three minutes."

"Was I? Was I really?"

Blake almost face-faulted. "Yang…what's wrong?"

"I don't know what you're talking about."

"Yang."

"That is my name."

"Alright. If you don't want to talk about it, I'll leave you alone."

"Then why're you still here?"

"I think it's cute how you're too afraid to open the door to JNPR's dorm."

Something flashed in lilac eyes. "Afraid? Please."

Twisting the knob, she swung the door open triumphantly. Pyrrha was seen with a binder of pictures open on her lap with Ruby sitting close beside her, awe in her wide silver eyes. Nora was on the other side of the room, arms over Ren's shoulders with Nebula's legs strewn over Ren's lap, laughing about something the hammer wielder said. All eyes turned to them, sweet and kind, something that both women relieved at. Ruby suddenly disappeared in a wave of rose petals only to reappear at the open doorway.

"Look at what Pyrrha gave me!" Ruby cheered, lifting a pendant of a corgi made of bronze and gold, "It looks like Zwei!"

Pyrrha beamed, "I had it made a few days ago after Ruby was telling me of your dog back home in Patch."

Yang smiled softly at her girlfriend, "Thank you, Pyr. That means a lot to both of us. You didn't have to."

"Don't mention it!" Pyrrha nodded, "I enjoy giving gifts to those I love. Speaking of which, are all of you almost ready?"

"Yeah, Dew just texted me a while ago, she's already waiting in the city." Nebula called from the other side of the room, "I'm already dressed to impress."

Yang lowered her eyes on the pirate. Gone was her overcoat and the extra belts and bandoliers. Even her purple hair was styled differently, it would seem as if she was taking hairstyle advice from Ruby. Even Nora had changed her hair, letting her bangs swipe over to the right, rather than letting her forehead lay bare. Shaking her head, she nodded with a smile, "Of course. I'm gonna meet you guys there. Me and the Ice Queen are gonna go shopping."

"Shopping? Ooh, I want to go!" Nora cheered.

"Sure, Nora. My wallet is in my bedstand." Ren smiled as he leaned into her, "Take what you want."

Yang visibly tensed at the words. Blake noticed immediately, watching the blonde almost nervously touch her waving locks. The reasons were impossible to decipher, leaving the young woman just as confused as she had been from the start. Crossing her arms over her chest, she waited as Nora moved at lightning speeds, a blur of colors before she reappeared in her new outfit. Strangely enough, the girl wore waist high shorts and a simple tank top – something Blake didn't even know she had.

Something is really getting to her. I don't want to make assumptions, but I have a feeling about this. Blake shook her head. Amber eyes turning to the Xiao Long as she smiled and tried to play off her frown. Is it because she feels bad about having to ask for money? Which…makes absolutely no sense. Why is she worrying about that now? Is it because of Weiss? Me? Pyrrha? I…I need to know more.

"Alright, I'm ready!" Nora cheered. "Let's go!"

"I'll call up a Levy." Yang smirked, "Ruby are you going to ride with Pyrrha and the rest or?"

"I'll meet you there. Have fun!" Ruby responded as she pointed at Pyrrha's pictures.

Blake wasn't too sure what to make of the new development, keeping a close watch of the blonde queen. She was careful, opening Jaune's drawer and opening his wallet. A series of Lien Cards revealed themselves, some nearly springing free from the wallet slots. Red cards, green cards, blue cards and what almost petrified the blonde, the black cards. Her lilac eyes shook and quivered ever so slightly, weighing her options and shakily deciding on a trio of green Lien Cards. Three Hundred Lien. A simple choice and very frugal.

Yang nodded to herself, almost proud, and shut the wallet once again and slipped the leather back into the drawer as if nothing had happened. Blinking a few times, the girl turned on her heels, bust jiggling and a grin spread across her face. Same old, same old. But Blake knew better, it was as clear as day. Yang was affected deeply by having to need help from someone else. And if the cat was being honest, it was daresay adorable.

Yang marched away, victorious and proud, disappearing into the hallway after Nora, who was already springing about a shopping list and what kind of Dust she wanted to implement to her grenades and Magnhild. Blake followed behind, listening to Nora's ramblings and Yang's confident responses. However, to the trained and attentive ear, only one of them meant it and it wasn't the blonde.

Since Weiss had become Queen and so effectively looked the part, Blake had noticed a change in Yang's demeanor. From simple jokes turning to solid insults and gripes; from teasing to actual sexual advances that looked like she was trying too hard. Weiss carried herself as a princess, a Queen, at least in the traditional sense – she had the vocabulary, the stance, the upbringing, the money. Yang on the other hand had come from a Bandit Queen and the King of Dorks. To the normal eye, without information, one would know who was Queen by simply looks alone.

Blake bit her lip, listening to Yang's tone, the hidden worry, the invisible doubt. To make her feel this way was the very last thing the Cat had wanted. It was the last thing any of them wanted. Weiss may be rough around the edges and a cold bitch when she wanted to be, but not even she would be so willing to hurt Yang intentionally. None of them were that cold. She was worried that Yang had felt that way anyway. A multi-billion Lien heiress, a Faunus Princess, a world-renowned Athlete and a girl who brawled in the streets for thrill. Blake shook her head, amber eyes softening at Yang's head of voluminous golden curls.

I didn't take a genius to understand what was really getting to the Xiao Long.

She made no moves to pry, knowing just how sensitive the Brawler could get when asked too many personal questions. The last idiot to do so nearly ended up in the infirmary for a week. Grievous wounds that she was completely torn up about. The sheer guilt she felt, the hatred she held for herself, Blake knew it was only building up to a boiling point where not even her walls, that were as steadfast as herself, would hold it back. The Belladonna had no intention of being on the receiving end of such punishment and kept her questions to herself, knowing an opportunity would appear when the time was right.

Even then, Blake wasn't too sure of what she'd say if the opportunity did come up. As they left the dormitories students, came with their scrolls up and flashes on, screaming their names and recording as they stepped into Beacon's school grounds. There were hundreds, if she were a betting woman, soon to be thousands. Golden-amber eyes glanced between the cameras and the flashing lights, the questions and praises thrown their way; the Queens of Vale, in all their splendor, minus the Invincible Girl.

Despite the gloom in Yang's demeanor before, it was suddenly replaced with pride and a beaming smile that made Blake's heart swell. She knew it was a mask, she knew that the Xiao Long was hiding something, but through it all, that smile. Her pearly white teeth accentuated by the falling golden curls that spread and lashed about to her lower back. Like a golden idol, the Queen, the one who almost married Jaune in the past, strutted along, lacing her arm with Weiss's and Blake's own.

Men bled from their noses; women swooned in her wake. The Faunus had to admit, Yang knew how to control a crowd. Lilac orbs peered ever so slightly between lidded eyes, glancing at both Blake and Weiss, holding the two close to her. Only an ignoramus would not realize her shaking arms. Weiss, the ice queen of the three, quickly caught on, tightening her arm with Yang's. Despite the visual fears, Yang relented, almost melting into the small Schnee. Weiss's eyes belayed nothing, I'm with you.

Cat ears lowered, as Blake drew to Yang. There was a flash, a glimmer of worry in Yang's and Weiss's eyes that resonated with Blake. It was a situation like this, surrounded by people, that the Grimm burst into Vale. From what Blake managed to learn, the blonde of RWBY was changed by the experience. Crowds were distractions; crowds were meat. Surrounded on all sides with little to no room to breathe, made them distracted. The train of thought derailed Blake into almost tripping over her high heeled boots. However, Yang's surefootedness and undeniable balance stopped Blake from even stumbling.

Not a word shared, only smiles and waves for the cameras and the scrolls recording their every move. Slowly, a Levy approached the landing pad, hissing as its doors sprang open. Moving swiftly to not rouse suspicion, they boarded the craft, waving and smiling as the doors quickly hissed shut. Gone were the deafening screams of their classmates, now left in silence of the Levy.

"So, is anyone gonna talk about what just happened, or?" Nora suddenly spoke.

"You know, I almost forgot you were with us," Weiss chuckled into her palm, "Nora…it was…"

"It was nothing," Yang laughed.

Not one girl believed it. But they all knew what would happen if they pushed Yang. Keeping their wits about them and finding other things to talk about, it was almost a blink before they were already landing within the city. Doors hissed open, revealing the landing pads of the King's Fist. Platoons of soldiers marched and patrolled the docking area with some Fireteams patrolling the outer sections.

"There you girls are!" Dew, waving to them, "took you long enough!"

"Sorry," Weiss lowered her head, "we didn't mean to take so long."

"We?" Nora raised a brow, "I think you mean, you."

"Quiet you," Weiss blushed red.

"Nah, it's cool," Dew chuckled, "c'mon, didn't you say you were going shopping? My dear Queens, you especially Yang, need some new duds. Let's go, Adel is nearby."

"A-Adel?" Yang stammered, "are you sure?"

"Please, Coco's mother has been yammering to Coco about having the Queens come to her store for ages," Dew smirked, "it's all Coco has to complain about these days, c'mon!"

"Tits." Dew murmured.

"Yeah," Yang looked down to her shirt. The bust looked like it was about to burst free, "it's uh…a little tight?"

"How did you even get it on there in the first place?" Weiss was astonished.

"In all honesty, they're not that big," Nora crossed her arms.

"Can I take this off now?" Yang chuckled nervously, "I swear I heard thread beginning to stretch."

Yang sighed, waltzing back to the changing room. Glancing at the mirror, she removed the dress, and quickly hung it next to the several dresses waiting to be tried. Closing lilac eyes, she took a slow, calming, breath. She could only think of what her girlfriends were already choosing to wear. A bounty of colors, from purples, yellows and even black. Yang sighed into her hands, rummaging through her thoughts.

It was a time like this. They never knew what would happen. They never knew the dangers that lurked. She reached up, lacing her fingers with a hangar before her arms locked. A crash was heard and someone's sudden gasp. A shuffle of heels and feet, the clamoring of material, clothing, steel against steel. She froze, unable to move. It was a time like this that the Grimm appeared out of nowhere. Dashing through halls, cutting through entire crowds, feasting on those who could not get away in time. Lilac eyes bled to crimson as her hair slowly ignited.

Forcing herself to move, she grabbed the next dress. Zippers undone, straps laid to the side, she slipped in and unlocked the door. Waiting, her friends sat, talking amongst themselves, clothes already gathered. Dresses of various design and price range, Yang took a deep breath, expressing herself before them, "How about this one?"

"See, that one accentuates your bust better," Dew said, giving her an analytical gaze, "though, frills are seriously last decade."

"Frills are not that bad," Blake hummed, "It has a certain…antique look to it."

"Maybe…" Yang took a deep breath, "maybe this isn't a good idea. I feel like I'm wasting time."

"Yang," Weiss quickly piped, "we have nothing to do today. It's the weekend; if this isn't your taste, then we have all the time in the world to find something you feel comfortable in. This is for all of us. I don't know about all of you, but it has been too long since I've had a mani-pedi. All this fighting, this Kingdom nonsense…a break is needed. Besides, the Ball isn't until tonight."

"Who wants drinks?" Blake suddenly said getting pointed looks from the girls present.

"My, Blake, a day-drinker?" Nebula giggled, "I'm game."

"As long as we get to eat soon," Nora's stomach grumbled, echoing through the store, "I'm literally starving."

"You ate an entire rotisserie chicken for a snack, Nora! I don't want to hear it!" Weiss glared.

"B-But that was a snack!" Nora pleaded, "What would you call a snack?"

"A protein bar; a bag of low-fat, low-sodium chips; an organic bag of trail mix – normal things!" the Ice Queen was red-faced. Yang's brow quirked at the girl's choice of food.

"See, that's boring," Nora blanched, "and low-fat? What's the point in that if there's no flavor!"

"Fat doesn't add flavor!"

"It does if it's a rotisserie chicken!"

"Well," Blake interrupted, "we get mani-pedi's full spa treatment, have a few mimosas while we're there – then we go to a nice restaurant and eat. We can do anything we want today – try to at least enjoy it. Besides, Nora's kinda right, I haven't eaten either and my stomach's been growling for a while."

"Then it's settled – my cuticles need some work anyway," Yang smirked, slinking back to her dressing room. Quickly throwing the dress off, she gathered the clothes and moved into the store, placing them back where she found them. As the last dress was hung, she missed the stand, jabbing her arm forward knocking the entire stand over. The crash sent ripples up and down her spine as she froze once more. Steel to steel, metal to metal, she felt claws against her skin, hot stinking breath against the nape of her neck.

Employees rushed to the scene, murmuring under their breath, apologizing as they worked tirelessly to get the display back up. It would seem the day carried bad luck. A high classed boutique, with this many display failures, it was a bad look. Without Coco to supervise and bellow commands like the slave-driver she was, these minimum wagers couldn't fight their way out of Tupperware. Shaking once more, Yang filtered the thoughts from her head. The city was not on fire; Grimm were nowhere to be found. They were safe. They were alive.

Blake was the first to appear before her, concern on her face and the tilting of her cat ears. Keeping a distance away, Yang could appreciate that. She didn't need help and she most certainly didn't want it. However, having her so close made her heart swell. She wasn't alone. As the thoughts continued, as the fear of sudden invasion racked her brain, another presence was felt, rummaging through the dresses, ensuring they were fit for display.

Weiss mused to herself, while stealing glances at the blonde. Not ire, nor disappointment. Simple serenity. Ice cold eyes were warm, contrast to the hairs raising on her arms and neck. While she was still the cold bitch she always was, she showed the side she rarely displayed so vividly. There was no frustration, just the movements of someone who deeply cared. She had friends. She had people who loved her and cared for her. And Weiss especially, bled with her in the streets of Vale. How she caried herself, how she refused to appear weak despite everything that happened – Yang couldn't help but smile.

"Come on, Yang," Blake said, taking her hand into her own, "the spa isn't going to wait."

Into the streets, they gathered as a large group, walking to stores and clothing shops as they headed deeper into the downtown districts of Vale. Cobblestone streets, expensive cars and most importantly, expensive people. Fancy clothes, fancy dresses, business attire, money, money, money. It was a different vibe as they moved deeper. People reacted all the same however, snapping pictures with whichever girl was closest, whichever Queen they had the courage to approach. The CCTN was definitely in overdrive with every new interaction.

Yang lifted her scroll, face-faulting as her notifications went haywire. Tags and mentions, posts and even videos. Social Media was in uproar soaking their appearance like a sponge. Is this the fame she wanted? Is this the kind of thing she even cared for? Putting her scroll on silent, she walked to the front of the group, Weiss and Blake at her sides.

"So, what's with the cape?" Yang asked, "I didn't even know you owned one."

"This is for casual days," Weiss said, "if you remember, we wear the same thing every day. It would be a shame if Velvet and Cardin outdid me in media. I am Weiss Schnee, I am more than a battle-skirt. I am more than just Schnee. Elegance is more than wit and enunciation – it's posture, poise and most of all, fashion. And beyond just fashion – appropriate fashion. Everything I wear is chosen with practicality in mind; I am more than able to fight if the need arises. Before a Queen, I am a Huntress."

"You know…" Yang thought for a moment, "maybe something fancy isn't what I need. Maybe I need something more…me."

"As long as it isn't painfully revealing…it's a ball," Weiss trailed, "if you're comfortable, if you love it, then we will too."

"Where was this Weiss months ago?" Yang smirked.

"She was always there," Weiss hummed, "she just didn't think she had a chance."

Yang stopped mid-step, cheeks burning hot, "E-Excuse me?"

"You heard me," Weiss trailed as a skip joined her steps.

Jaune moved to the music, swaying and spinning Weiss as the song continued. People watched their incredible movement, as their unison looked practiced. Elegant, royal, the curls of her side-ponytail, the tiara that glimmered in the shattered moon-light. Cameras out, scrolls raised, flashes and lights pressed against the pair as their feet glided across the dance floor. Alone, having taken the stage completely, neither seemed to care.

Hand at her waist, the other, fingers laced together, her small stature contrasted his towering height. He moved, she followed; she led, he relented. As if they had done this dance a million times, she knew what to do, he knew what to do. A dramatic pause with the slowing pace, they slowly continued, lowering their heads together.

"You really do know how to dance," Weiss smiled.

Jaune chuckled, "Seven sisters. It kinda does that."

"Right," Weiss sighed, "thank the gods for that. Jaune…are you happy?"

"Weird question," his brow quirked, "a-are you?"

"Happier than I've ever been," Weiss lowered her head into his chest, "but…don't change the subject. You can't respond to a question with a question."

"I…" Jaune stopped talking. His words trapped in his mouth, "I am."

"I believe you," she nodded, "just…if anything bothers you…I know you have Blake, Pyrrha and Yang; you have me too. You always have. I know you've already danced with everyone else, there is one who's been dying for a chance."

"Where is she?" Jaune asked, "you left the front of the ballroom to dance with me after all. I thought she would be the one to greet everyone."

"She's been here the entire time," Weiss said, "watching from afar. I told her to come down, but I guess she just wants you to herself. Now go, King. Your Queen is waiting."

Releasing her as the song ended, she gave him an uncharacteristic wink. A smile on his face, Pyrrha moved in, taking Weiss as her new dance partner. Heading to the stairwell, he took a deep breath. He remembered her dress in the past, however, he only had a single glance as Pyrrha took all his attention. Waiting at the base of the stairwell, Blake leaned, a knowing smile on her face.

"Blake?" Jaune asked.

"Ruby left to get some signal on her scroll," Blake chuckled, "so I kinda don't have a dancing partner anymore. She's upstairs, watching. Be strong, Jaune, and don't forget to breathe. She looks amazing."

"Thanks Blake," Jaune pulled her close, "I love you."

"I love you too, idiot." Blake kissed his cheek, "now hurry, we made sure to keep Yang a surprise for a reason."

Almost rushing up the steps, he stopped at the top, running his hands against his pressed suit and through his hair. The mop continued to sway as he entered the upper terrace. There she was, alone, sipping away at her punch. Leaning against the railing, she was majestic. A simple, yet intricately made, white dress. It hung from her shoulders revealing her back and reasonable bust. Arms displayed freely, like never before. The creases of her muscled arms, her defined deltoids and all the work she had done to keep herself in athletic, near shredded form.

It was a simple outfit, but one that shined like the moon above. Blonde hair was tied together, held by jeweled binds and topped with a diamond tiara. Curling hair flowed behind, like magma flows of bursting volcanoes. Nails, shimmering with lavender shellac, embedded with dazzling diamonds. However, it was her eyes that made his throat choke. Piercing lilac encased in black eyeliner and purple eyeshadow. Colors that should clash, contained and worked together on the woman in front of him.

"Y-Yang?" he murmured weakly.

"Hey, Jaune," she set the cup of punch down, "took you long enough. You like what you see?"

He stumbled forward, stopping just before her, "D-Do I? I love it! You look…"

"What?" hints of blush accentuated her reddening face.

"It's…it's like the night I proposed to you," he blushed.

Yang didn't care. She jumped, throwing her arms around his neck, pressing her lips to his. He responded, holding her steady as the kiss deepened. Hearts beating as one, they broke, gasping for breath, "Yang…you are just…so beautiful."

"Jaune, I know it's been months since Menagerie, since the Battle…" Yang paused, "I missed you. I missed this. Time to ourselves, where nothing and no one else matters but the ones we love. We're always training, always fighting someone or something. I always think about that day we fell asleep on that bench, the eight of us. There were no finals, no tests, no essays; no wars, no fighting, no Grimm. Just…us."

"I know…" he lowered his head, "I'm sorry. I know I haven't been the best boyfriend lately."

"You have a lot on your shoulders, especially recently," Yang said, "between classes and on weekends when we're just sitting in our dorms, talking about nothing…it's all I can ask for and want. I want to apologize."

"For what?"

"How I acted this morning," Yang said, "I feel like I should explain how I felt. I grew up in Patch, small family with little to need for material things. My dad and my sister were all I ever wanted. He worked hard as a teacher and I raised my sister for a long time. We were fine, we were content. But ever since all of this, since being chosen as a Queen, since becoming a Huntress…I realize that there are things that I just can't give you. I'm gorgeous and I know it, but looks can only go so far."

"Pyrrha has prestige and athletic accomplishments; Blake is now a Princess of a Faunus Kingdom; Weiss is literally a princess and always has been. They bring so much to the table that I just can't. I only took three hundred Lien from your wallet because I didn't feel right taking any more than that," Yang continued, "I just feel so out of place sometimes because of these incredible women in my life, that I kinda just…shut off. I don't like asking for help because in my life, I've done everything myself. I need answers, I'll get answers. I need something, I'll go and get it myself. But something as regular as shopping for new clothes – it just felt like a new playing field."

"Be honest, Jaune," Yang chuckled, "you think I can pull off what they can, on a daily basis? But I realized, I was just being unreasonable. I was afraid of…I…the Battle of Vale really messed me up alright? I don't feel safe in anything but my combat attire. I don't feel like I can be even a fraction of what I know I can be if I wore anything else. But after talking to Weiss, who surprisingly holds a lot of wisdom under all that royalty, she and Blake really helped me today. I just know that what I bring, I bring everything I have to give."

"I appreciate that you don't see me as anything less," Yang bit her lip.

"And I never will, Yang," Jaune moved to kiss her forehead, but her hand raised, stopping him.

"Nope, wearing foundation – Weiss-scream will make my ears bleed if it gets ruined again," Yang giggled, "I know I wanted to dance, but can we just…stand her and watch for a while?"

"Anything for you, my Queen," Jaune leaned in.

On the dance floor below, Pyrrha had switched from Weiss to Blake. The two moving in determined pace, matching the bpm of the new song. Hands up, kick-step, kick-step, twirl. They moved effortlessly to the new song. Ren and Nora followed close, the analytical gaze of Ren as he ensured the choreography was followed. The pair laughed as Nora lifted Ren into the air as Blake raised Pyrrha. A spin was done and they traded partners as the song upped the tempo. Still in unison, Blake moved with Nora's snappy and energetic movements, showing a side of the Faunus few knew she had.

Ren and Pyrrha kept up, as Weiss was suddenly pulled into the mix. Within the crowd, Cardin was seen, sipping his punch silently as he shared quick glances to the dancing friends and the windows behind him. A slew of pity ran through Jaune's head. Without Velvet, the bird was awfully introverted. His teammates suddenly joined the fray, girls at their sides. Sun and Doré piled into the group, breakdancing as a circle formed around them.

"Huh, I didn't know she could do that," Yang piped.

"To be honest, I didn't either," Jaune's smile spread across his face, "they look like they're enjoying themselves. Maybe we should too."

"Jaune," Yang held his hand, "do…do you love me?"

His heart stopped. Red flaked blue eyes stared wide at the girl. A face dolled with make-up changed to a sweaty, glowing woman. Meek and vulnerable, she was not the same as before. Blinking once, blinking twice, he turned back to her, closing the distance.

"I do." He slowly snaked his arms around her, "I always will."

"Good," she smirked, running a hand through his unruly hair, "come on."

As they descended the steps, the Fireteams turned to them, cheering and raising punch, "finally you come down from your lonely tower!" Nora called.

"Get ready, Valkyrie, I'm gonna show you how a Queen dances!"

Speeding into the dance floor, they moved about, waving arms, popping and locking, breaking to the beat. Jaune watched, laughing and sharing drinks with his friends, however, there was something wrong, itching at the back of his mind. Something happened on this night. Something that may or may not have changed. Blake, sensing his change in demeanor moved to his side, pulling him away from the gathered crowds. Weiss and Pyrrha not noticing grabbed Yang who stopped to watch. Lilac eyes blinked and the worry she had disappeared as Pyrrha threw herself to the blonde.

"Jaune, what's wrong?" Blake asked.

Uncertainty on his face, eyes glanced from the entrance of the Ballroom to the backdoors. He did not answer her, restless in his dress shoes, "Blake, there's something I'm forgetting. Something happened tonight. Where's Ruby?"

"Don't worry, I asked Russel and Cardin to look for her," Blake said, "they were getting tired of the music anyway."

Jaune paused. Thinking, thinking, he tried to remember the night, but nothing would come up. Shaking his head, trying to force a memory, but it was nothing but black. An empty slate, "we have to find her now. Something's wrong, I know it. Remember what I said about Cinder Fall?"

"Y-Yeah, why?" Blake asked.

"She…she put a virus into the CCTN infecting all of Beacon," Jaune's face lit up, "she's here."

Two words shouldn't have that weight. Blake choked on the breath she didn't know she was holding. Panic rising on her chest, "seriously? She's here?! Jaune…are you certain? This night…it's supposed to be our night. We are supposed to relax, not fight!"

"Blake…" Jaune sighed, "she's here. The whole reason we even started this in the first place!"

"I understand that, but Jaune…" Blake grabbed his arms, "we are tired. We need this…you need this. When was the last time we've even been on a date? The last time we held one another? We haven't since we returned from Menagerie! Jaune, please. We have an army – let them handle things for once. I'll let MSTN know if it makes you feel any better."

"What if the fight comes to us," Jaune asked as his anxiety grew, "what then?"

"We deal with it, when we deal with it," Blake said, "smile, enjoy yourself. I'm begging you."

Suddenly, her scroll began to vibrate. Pulling it from her purse, she nearly wanted to kick herself in the shin, "Ruby…she's calling for help. King's Fist and Atlesian Infantry are dead at the CCT."

"Gods damnit," Jaune cursed under his breath.

Yang jogged up to them, red-faced and a beaming smile, "w-what's…what's wrong?"

"Ruby's in trouble."

"Ruby!"

"Shh!" She threw a finger to her lips, "t-that's…that's Adam Taurus."

"You've got to be kidding me…" Russel cursed under his breath. Shuffling about, his suit caught onto a bush, "i-if he's here…"

"You are?" a woman's voice sounded from the bodies gathered at the front of the CCT. She didn't even get the chance to enter. A masked woman wearing a black catsuit, she appeared confident wielding a pair of swords, "I wasn't aware Salem had more pawns like RRGE."

"I'm no mere pawn," Adam glowered, "either you come with us and kneel before your Queen in person, or we kill you here and now."

"Do you even know who I am?" the woman spat, taking a threatening step to the Faunus.

"I don't care," Adam responded, clicking his crimson blade from its sheath, "All I know…is that Salem wants you dead."

"Don't underestimate a Maiden," fire erupted from her open hands. However, before Ruby, Cardin or Russel could speak, a rumble was heard from above. Louder than anything, it neared and stayed above them. A hiss later and newcomers entered the field.

"Sienna…" Adam turned to her. The SDC branding on his eye visible in the dim lights.

"So, there you are, Adam," Sienna glared, letting her chain-blade loose at her side. A girl stood beside her, no taller than Ruby, with a parasol resting against her shoulder. Ruby recognized her, a prisoner from the Battle of the Docks, Neopolitan was her name. As the Levy was revealed in the streetlights of Beacon's campus, more stepped from the bay doors. A woman wearing white and light blue overcoats and armor drew her sword, stepping beside Neopolitan. The winged Faunus of Adam's group flapped his bat wings, hovering slightly. The pale-skinned girl opened her hands, revealing spider webs oozing from the holes in her palms. The other girl, her skin color shifted multiple times before completely disappearing from sight.

"Holy…"

"Shit." Russel finished.

Coming to Cinder's aid, a pair of teenagers, weapons drawn and stances taken, the three groups stared at one another waiting and watching. Cinder's blades ignited with flame. Neopolitan twirled her parasol, moving with Sienna as the third woman kept the pace. No group closed the distance, simply circling one another until someone changed the status quo. While Cinder was outnumbered, she felt she wasn't outclassed. That thought however, quickly faded as a Raven's caw was heard. In the darkness, a shift was felt, a presence of energy very few could quantify.

Walking from the shadow, a woman with crimson eyes and deep black hair stepped into view. Standing at Sienna's left, the woman drew her blade, revealing a crimson edge of glowing Dust. Sienna nodded, turning to the woman, "I didn't think you'd show yourself. After what Qrow said…"

"Qrow doesn't know me as well as he thinks he does," Raven responded, "so…you're Cinder Fall."

"And you're Raven Branwen of the Branwen Tribe," Cinder responded, "I feel like I should bow, after all, you're a Queen and your daughter is a Queen."

"Do not speak of my daughter," Raven readied herself, "Adam Taurus, our fight isn't with you. Get the hell out of here."

"Speak for yourself," Sienna huffed, "I have more than a few words to share with that traitor."

"The only traitor I see is you." Adam drew his blade.

"Sienna, don't kill him," the white haired woman said.

"Don't worry, Winter," the Tiger huffed, "there'll be enough of him left to rot in a prison cell."

Ruby grabbed Cardin and Russel, leading them from the bush, "Winter Schnee?! Uh, guys, I think we need to go now."

"Rose!" Raven bellowed. Ruby turned to the woman, silver eyes wider than plates, "Your mother wouldn't run, so why are you?"

"It's fine, Ruby. I think we can handle this now," a voice sounded around them.

"Way to attract a crowd, Taurus!" Cinder hissed, falling into a defensive stance, "Look what you've done! You've ruined everything!"

"Oh, don't run now, Cinder," a boy entered the field. Lights flashed to life, revealing the airship, the Espérer hovering above. Wearing white, gold and bronze armor, he drew Crocea Mors and raised the sword to them, "you took everything from me…I can't wait to make you suffer."

Cinder for all her poise and confidence, faltered.

"I don't even know who you are."

Jaune smirked. Golden antlers grew from his forehead.

"Don't worry. You will."

So, I couldn't have a deep talk between Yang and Blake because well, there was no need to. With all the changes to the story I've made, a lot of things had to be sacrificed and new things had to happen. As for Yang's demeanor, Idk, for someone so boistrous in the series, and someone whose regular clothing is kinda revealing, she wore a very, very, conservative dress to the Ball. It's something I wanted to toy with so we could get a deeper look into what her personality is in a way that Pyrrha, Blake and even Weiss have gotten in this fanfic and Yang is supposed to have been his fiancee in the future past.

Also, I wanna apologize in the ending is a little rushed. I couldn't think of anything else. ALSO, Winter's joining Team KRWN will be explained later.

You know the drill, tell me what you thought in the reviews

ja ne

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