Read bottom A/N for proper credit and disclaimer to other author. Further A/N in next chapter.

Interlude / Chapter 3.5: Night Of Profound And Able

It has been months since the Fall of Beacon Academy. As it has already been established, Team RWBY has been disbanded, and Team JNPR has been made unwhole with one deceased. The remainders of Team RWBY are left with their struggles, yet to be conquered. One of them includes the defiant Weiss Schnee.

(Many Months After Winter, Kingdom Of Atlas, Schnee Dust Company Charity Concert…)

After performing at the charity concert, Weiss accompanied her father, Jacques Schnee, in the after party. Unlike her previous attire at Beacon Academy, she wears a more luxurious, decorative dress. Though darker in shades of blue, it hardly seems far fetched from her more tactical attire. However, for the sake of the ceremony, her skirt is much longer, and less combatant.

At the party, Jacques mutually gloats and converses with fellow businessmen and women. Against her will, Weiss had been listening to their point of views with little agreement or interest. Taking her mind from it, she manages to dismiss herself from her father, and walks across the room to a large memorable painting of Beacon Academy in its former glory. Hopefully, this would take her mind off of her snob of a father.

Jacques: "I'm sorry, I tuned out for a second, but… sounds like I'm the good guy again? *laugh*."

Weiss: "Ugh, seriously? If Blake, or any of the Faunus could here him now…"

Weiss stops at the painting of the sacred academy, finally having some space to herself. But before given any real time to herself, she meets a well dressed young man, who seemed to be awaiting for her approach.

?????: "It's beautiful." Weiss does not acknowledge him. Not out of irritation (yet), but by mourning for her school. "You two match."

Now Weiss musters up the mental energy for interaction.

Weiss: "Yes, it's a lovely painting."

Weiss' vague response gives the young man little credit.

?????: "So… That was my attempt at breaking the ice… How am I doing so far?"

Weiss: "You are leaving a lot to be desired."

Weiss' response this time shatters the young man's attempt. Still, he persists.

Henry: "Well, I've always appreciated honesty." This time, the young man holds out his hand as a proper greeting. "Henry. Marigold." Weiss now looks over to him, making eye contact.

Weiss: "...You remind me of… nevermind. Weiss Schnee." Weiss gives him her hand as a greeting back.

Henry Marigold, very much did remind Weiss of someone. He has light blue hair with an undercut haircut. He also has a red dress shirt with a black tie, tail vest, and pants. Traits very much similar to her once fascinated, Neptune Vasilias, only more shallow. Both in color complexity, and personality.

Henry: "I know. I saw your performance… Obviously."

Weiss: "Well, I do appreciate recognition…" Though Henry did comment on knowing her, he felt that his words could have been better put.

Henry: "You were wonderful! And I promise I'm not just saying that cause you're pretty."

Then, a memory crosses Weiss' mind.

(Many Months Ago, Vytal Festival, Team SSSN VS Team NDGO…)

Weiss: "Good luck, Neptune!"

From the audience, Weiss cheers Neptune on with his team. However, that is right before he greets Team NDGO inappropriately.

Neptune: "(flirting) Ladies."

And thus, Weiss' admiration shifts.

Weiss: "Break his stupid face, NDGO!"

(Present Day…)

Weiss: "...Wow!"

Henry: "Honesty, remember?"

Weiss: "And honestly, still a lot to be desired, remember?"

Henry: "So… You thinking about buying it?"

Weiss: "As nice as this painting is, compared to you right now… No… I don't think so. It'd be hard to get over, for one thing."

Henry: "Yeah… Kind of pricey for a painting."

Weiss: "Pricey?! It's to raise money."

Henry: "Oh really? For what?"

Weiss: "...Excuse me?! For what?! You can't be serious! Why are you even here?! What did you think this ceremony was all for?!"

Henry: "I'll admit… I only come to these things for the food and drinks." As a waiter walks by, Henry grabs a champagne flute (because they "have people for that", as Jacques Schnee had said earlier). "And the extraordinary company, of course." He then takes a drink of what he came to the charity for.

Weiss: "Oh, you're real honest alright!"

Henry: "So what… Is it another Mantle fundraiser or something?"

Weiss: "I've had enough... Get out."

Henry: "What?"

Weiss: "Get out, or I will have security escort you out."

Henry: "But I haven't done anyth--."

Weiss: "Leave! ...Don't make me say it again!"

Henry: "Pfft. Whatever."

Henry makes his way out of Weiss' presence. As he leaves, her mind crosses to the past again.

(Before The Beacon Dance…)

Weiss: "Neptune!" Weiss walks up to Neptune, noticing him (and no one else) in the outside halls of Beacon Academy.

Neptune: "Oh, uh, hey. What's up?"

Weiss: "I know this is a little… unorthodox, but… I wanted to ask you something. Would you… like to accompany me to the dance tomorrow?" For some odd reason, Neptune hesitates to answer Weiss' request. So silent, one could almost hear a rose drop. "I mean… if you already have a date, which I totally understand, that's okay--."

Neptune: "Oh no, it-it's not that, but… I'm not really into… to… dancing. It's just embarrassing. I was just, only gonna go for the food and drinks. I wouldn't… make good company as a partner."

Weiss: "Oh. N-No, I… get it. Um… thanks?" By what Neptune can see, Weiss is very disappointed.

Neptune: "I'm… really sorry. But hey, any guy would be lucky to dance with you. Hopefully, one that CAN dance, and show you a good time."

Weiss: "Yeah. A good time… I think I'm past embarrassed myself, and far from a good time now."

Neptune: "I'll see you there, okay?"

Weiss: "Yeah… I'll see you." Weiss turns back around and walks with her head down. While looking down, she finds a white rose lying in the the ground, all by its lonesome. She cannot help but feel as if the rose was meant for her, feeling almost as lonely. "We should get you some water." She picks it up, and feels almost completely lifted up inside. "And you could use some company, too."

(Present Day…)

Angry Businessman: "No, no, no!" Right at the instant Weiss' memory finishes, she hears a man hollering while ignoring him. "I asked for a double sundae! This is completely--!"

Waiter: "I'm so sorry, Sir."

If Henry did not remind Weiss of her regretted past interests, than this Angry Businessman reminded her of her original environment (growing up in Atlas). The environment that lead her to fancy whom or what she thought to be more prosperous. While Neptune Vasilias may be on a better level than a clueless person like Henry, she feels that she missed out on something else because of her attention toward less noble things. And nearly all of the people their hardly seem to care about anything, other than themselves.

And then, she hears someone else from behind.

?????: "(sarcasm) Are you alright, sir?! I couldn't help but hear that you didn't get your dessert, like you so necessarily screamed from across the room!"

Weiss turns around to see someone in uniform facing the Businessman. Even the surrounding people seemed disturbed by his outburst.

Angry Businessman: "U-Um…"

?????: "(sarcasm) What is it? Do you need some lien?" The new man takes out a piece of lien from his pocket and holds it in front of the Businessman. "Here, take it."

The Businessman hesitantly tries to take it. But the other man flicks it at his eye. It bounces back to him, and he puts it back in his pocket. Weiss giggles watching the man bully back at the Businessman.

?????: "(sarcasm) Oh, I'm sorry! I forgot. You already have too much lien. And it blinds you enough as it is."

Angry Businessman: "Ow! What is wrong with you?!"

?????: "Wait, that's right! You wanted a sundae. A DOUBLE sundae! Pfft! I forgot! Here, let me get that for you!" As the man goes on, Weiss spots Henry, who had not left, walk past the man, looking behind his shoulders. "Hey you, young man! Come here!"

Henry: "(nervous) Uh… me?!"

?????: "Yeah! Don't be scared. Come here. You work here, right? I see you're only wearing a shirt, vest, and tie like the other waiters. What, it's not like you came here and couldn't afford a suit jacket, right?!"

Henry: "I… um..."

Weiss watches at a distance, angry, seeing as Henry had not left like she said for him to. But Henry feeling even more nervous from being put on the spot calms her down.

?????: "You came here for the food, right? Well here, get THIS man some food. He wants a sundae." The man takes the tray away from the actual Waiter, who has been standing there, awkwardly. The tray is given to Henry, now being appointed as a waiter. "And make it a double, on the double. Otherwise, this man here might break his rage and pop a blood vessel on you, like he did to this poor kid."

Angry Businessman: "Excuse me?! Just who do you think you are?!"

?????: "I'm security. Just making sure everything goes well, and no freeloaders spoil the ceremony."

The man slaps a hand on Henry's shoulder, making him tense up. The Businessman simply turns around in disgust.

Henry: "Wait, I wasn't--! I'm not a wait--!" As Henry stutters, the man bends down to his ear.

?????: "(whisper) By the way, (sarcasm) real smooth with Ms. Schnee! Nailed it like a champ!" Henry makes no movement or sound. Only stillness out of fear and embarrassment. "(whisper) Better get a move on with that sundae. And after you give the snob his sweets, beat it!" The man slightly pushes Henry aside, making him stumble and walk toward the kitchen. "Don't hurt yourself! Hehehe."

The man now turns to the original waiter, who still stands there awkwardly.

Waiter: "Look, sir, you didn't have to do that, really. I'm used to it."

?????: "I'm sure you are. But noone should have to be used to that. And you're right, I didn't have to do all that. I just wanted to! Hahahaha!" In his pocket, the man takes out a lien, and puts it in the Waiter's shirt pocket. "Here, take the rest of the day off. This should cover your wages of today, and some."

Waiter: "Sir, you shouldn't-- I can't do that. What if my boss--?"

?????: "Show him that lien, and they'll know who I am. They'll understand. Now go, enjoy your night."

Waiter: "...Thank you!"

The Waiter walks off, feeling joyfully ecstatic. After seeing what the man had done, Weiss feels a sense of warmth in her heart. But then she sees the man approaching her this time.

?????: "Good evening, young lady."

Weiss: "Good evening." The man steps at Weiss' side, where Henry once was. Weiss looks at him, while he looks at the painting of Beacon Academy. "Thanks for taking care of those two. I was starting to lose my mind."

?????: "Hehehe. Don't mention it. I saw that kid trying to put the moves on you, failing at it, and I knew I just had to mess with him… Especially if he's not here for the charity itself." The man looks over to Weiss. "But you handled yourself and the situation pretty well."

Weiss: "Thank you."

?????: "Would you mind if I admired this painting with you?"

Weiss: "No, not at all."

The two stand quietly, looking at the painting for a moment. Now with the man up close, Weiss can see his uniform in more detail. A uniform very distinctive for just security. Putting his previous actions aside, he stands out more than the rest of the people at the ceremony, to her perception.

The man's uniform is a military, leatherneck, dress white uniform with gold accents. He has a few rows of ribbons and medals across his chest. On top of his shoulders, she can almost see stars on his epaulettes. His buttons hold symbols that apparently do not symbolize Atlas, but rather cross axes for Vale.

Weiss chooses not to jump to any conclusions. To do so might risk her of decent company. This man somehow seems comforting and safe to be around. And not just because this man seems like he is in the military. But his face, as if she knew him before. Almost like she thought she knew Henry, looking like Neptune, but with this man looking like someone else.

The man has a medium faded haircut, and a clean shaved face. She has to admit, for an older man, he is handsome with his sun like hair and lightning eyes. To Weiss, it would make sense for the Schnee Dust Company to have someone like him as security. Or perhaps, too much sense.

The ceremony is only for a charity. Why would it need a military officer for security, she wondered. To get an answer or two, Weiss puts her peace aside and tries to get a name.

Weiss: "I'm Weiss, by the way."

Jacob: "Yes. It's nice to finally meet you, Ms. Schnee. You can call me Jacob." The man, known as Jacob, looks over and smiles at Weiss. They both give a handshake for a brief greeting, and turn back to the painting. "...It's awful what they did to Beacon… To Vale."

Weiss: "...Yeah. I was there."

Jacob: "I know." Weiss looks over to Jacob, still looking at the painting. "Forgive my words, but you're father likes to glorify in how you fought during that night. Any parent would be proud, but not the way he is." He looks at her. "Nonetheless, I can tell you fought with everything you had. And you've lost a lot during that time too, haven't you?"

Weiss: "Y-Yeah… Am I really that obvious, or... does this guy really get me?"

Jacob: "I could've stopped it all too."

Questionably, Weiss tilts her head at Jacob, who seems more upset this time.

Weiss: "I… I don't think anyone could've stopped what happened."

Jacob: "Who knows… I could've been there to eliminate maybe half of the catastrophe, even before it began…"

Weiss: "What happened?"

Jacob: "I was on a mission, my troops and I. General Ironwood, bless his heart behind that tin chest of his, offered to act as Vale's defense during the Vytal Festival. It'd help while we prioritized in looking for the one responsible for Beacon's Fall before it happened. It all seemed like a good idea at first, till Jimmy(Ironwood) went overboard with his excessive army. That created more conflict than we thought, but I know he means well."

Weiss: "...This person. Do you mean… I think her name was… Cinder?"

Jacob: "Hehe. Nah. Though, if she were my main objective, I'd have already been there to take her out, myself. But no. This person, they've been on Remnant's hit list since, well, believe it or not, since mankind knew what good or bad was. And I was just one of the many who thought they'd be able to end it all on one night."

Weiss: "What? Is that like a metaphor? How could someone even live that long?"

Jacob: "My troops and I were already miles away from Vale by the time we got reports of Beacon being invaded. I would've gotten there quick enough, and passed our first objective to another superior officer, but… let's just say I got into a 'venomous pinch'. Luckily, I got through it, not being the one 'scarred to the chest'. That was until we found that the word of our target being where we were outside of Vale was anonymously made just to divert us further from Vale."

Weiss: "So… it was all a trap for you?!"

Jacob: "...It was… And if that weren't bad enough, communications from the CCT were totally destroyed, as we all know. Still, with our own network, I gave the orders to finalize everyone's evacuation. Everyone was safe and out of Beacon… Except for my family."

Weiss gives a shocked and concerned expression. Jacob however smiles, even while still upset.

Jacob: "Had this old man been wiser back then than he is now, he'd learn that there are consequences with the things you do, and the things you don't do. No matter how tempted, or how desperate you are. Not to cover his tracks, but rather, leave none to begin with. But instead of dwelling on the past, I'd rather fix its outcome, and go from there. That's why I'm here tonight."

A small moment of silence, as Weiss stares up at Jacob. His story, while vague, gives her a fulfilling sense from someone who understands Vale's hardship. But, it gives her all the more reason of questioning why he is here in Atlas.

Weiss: "...You're not really security for this ceremony, are you?"

Jacob: "*chuckle* If only Gelè was as observant as his daughter." With his white gloved hand, Jacob reaches over and pats Weiss on the head. "Sorry. I got a little lost in thought there."

Normally, Weiss would find Jacob's patting inappropriate. That, as well as referring to her father as his former surname. But to her, it feels nice from someone like Jacob, especially while praising her like a real father would. It all leads Weiss to wonder who this man may be a family to.

For a little moment of restored peace, Weiss closes her eyes in thought. But that only lasts for a short moment, by her and Jacob hearing something intolerable. Or rather, someone.

Trophy Wife: "But really, does it come as any surprise what happened to Vale?" Weiss opens her eyes, looks back, and sees someone's Trophy Wife talking disgracefully about Vale. "It was a long time coming if you ask me."

Weiss then looks at Jacob, with his head down. He clenches his fists, out of anger. And from what she can see, she senses sadness and shame as well. It makes her want to burst out at the woman, until Jacob stops her with his hand on her shoulder.

Jacob: "Don't… It's not worth it."

Restraining herself, Weiss tries to calm down for a moment. But that is only until she speaks again.

Trophy Wife: "What are their military, or even their Huntsmen doing? Going out of boundaries and borders to fight impossible battles? They don't care enough for their own. Not even their children for that matter."

Jacob then emits a slight push of aura out of contained rage. Weiss feels it, nearly intimidated by it, while just as angry. She then steps up without Jacob trying to stop her this time.

Husband: "Honey…"

Trophy Wife: "What? You said the same thing lastnight. If they're so arrogant to think they can get by without proper kingdom defense, then I say good riddance."

Weiss: "Shut up!"

The entire ceremony goes silent, as all attention goes toward Weiss, enraged. The only person smirking is Jacob from behind.

Jacques: "Weiss."

Weiss: "You don't have a clue! None of you do! You weren't there at Beacon when it fell! You don't know what their military or Huntsmen went through!"

Trophy Wife: "Excuse me?!"

Weiss: "No, I won't! You're all just standing around talking about nothing! Worrying about your hair, your money… Your stupid problems that don't mean anything! You probably didn't even know this was a charity, did you?! And you don't even care what happened to Vale! Only yourselves! How many friends have you lost that day, huh?!"

Within the crowd, Jacques strides up to Weiss, and grabs her arm.

Jacques: "Weiss, that's enough!"

Weiss: "Let go of me!"

Jacques: "You're embarrassing the family!"

Jacob: "Ha! That's rich! Richer than you, even!"

Jacques: "Wha--?! G-General A--?!"

Weiss: "I said let go!"

From Weiss' defiance, and Jacques being distracted, she yanks her arm free from her father's loosened grasp. But she falls during the process. With her rage intact, her semblance accidentally activates from where she fell. She looks up and sees that she had summoned a Boarbatusk. It roars, and charges at the Trophy Wife.

Jacob: "Uh-oh. Somebody better get that." Jacob casually looks around to see if anyone will take action. "...Anyone?" Seeing as no one intervenes, he takes one step, but stops as he looks forward at the crowd. "Oh, he's got it."

Trophy Wife: "Please, I'm sorry, I'm sorry! Just leave me alone!"

The summoned Boarbatusk jumps up at the Wife, but gets shot across the room. The one responsible, after shoving through the crowd, is General James Ironwood. It then disintegrates.

Trophy Wife: "Arrest her!" Ironwood pays no attention to the Wife and looks down at Weiss. The Wife then looks at Jacob, believing him to be security. Jacob only whistles, and looks away. "What are you waiting for? She's insane, she should be locked up!"

Jacob: "(mumble) Your mouth should've been locked up, and then you wouldn't have been scared clueless…" Despite what took place, Weiss snickers at Jacob. "*clears throat*"

Ironwood: "She's the only one making sense around here."

Jacob: "(mumble) I know, right?! Sense in mind over cents in money, anytime! And I thought I was an arrogant blonde…" Again, Weiss giggles. "*clears throat harder* Think I have a cold or something…"

Ironwood: "Thanks for the party, Jacques."

Ironwood makes his way toward the exit, while everyone remains speechless. Jacques angrily looks back down at Weiss. She looks up, upsettingly. And to break the awkward silence, Jacob steps up.

Jacob: "*whistle* (clapping) That was quite a show! Boy, am I glad I came!"

As Jacob walks up beside Weiss, everybody directs their attention to him. Including Ironwood, who stops as he turns around, surprised.

Jacques: "Hey, get away from my--!"

Jacob: "No, no, you stay put, Gelé Bean. I got her." Jacob helps Weiss up to her feet, practically lifting her up himself. "I was waiting for you to help her, but…" He then appropriately dusts her off with his handkerchief from his pocket. Afterwards, he gives it to her to finish cleaning herself up. "...I guess that expensive mustache must've been weighing you down."

Jacques: "Grr! What are you doing here, anyway?"

Ironwood: "That's exactly what I would like to know." Ironwood strides back, closer to Jacob. "Explain yourself, Jacques."

Weiss: "Hold on, why is he interrogating my father? He sounds just as confused as--."

Jacob: "Jimmy-Boy, I keep telling you, call me Jacob whenever Gelé Bean is around." Jacques growls at Jacob's (Jacques') remark. "I call him by his last name cause I don't wanna sound like I speak third person point of view. I have enough ego as it is."

Weiss: "Oh, so his name is Jacques too… And a better one, at that. But what's with calling him by his former surname?"

Jacques: "Indeed, your ego is a cloud to your morals, because it's Jacques SCHNEE now!"

Jacob: "Trust me, I know. But if Old Nicholas Schnee could see you now (bless him)..." Disappointingly, Jacob shakes his head.

Jacques: "Watch yourself, or I'll have your rank! Because--!"

The threats that Jacques lays on Jacob goes ignored, as he directs his attention to Ironwood.

Jacob: "Boy, I guess that echo is still goin', huh? How many times has James had to hear this, I wonder? *yawn* Longer than me, I'm sure."

Jacques: "--my name, so watch your tongue! And what's with you and my daughter, acting all… all--!"

Jacob: "What, 'fatherly'? Well someone has to. Isn't that right, James?"

Both Ironwood and Weiss look away and blush, knowing they already possess a father-daughter figure to one another. Jacques angrily stares at Ironwood, who adjusts his tie for a bit of comfort. He then attempts to change the subject.

Ironwood: "Jacob, (quietly) why aren't you in Vale?"

Jacob: "I came to speak with you. Not just because I missed you, which I have, but with the CCT down, I can't hold an efficient discussion. But the news spread that the Schnee Dust Company wanted to pay their… *clears throat* 'respects'..." Jacob looks over to the Trophy Wife, scaring her slightly. "...with a charity. So I assumed you'd be here, someone who actually gives a gosh darn, and I'd surprise you before calling (via satellite)."

From within the crowd, a loud familiar voice sounds out. And thus, the party's subtlety is brought back to tension.

Angry Businessman: "Wait, you said you were security for this ceremony!"

Jacob: "Oh, I am security. But I never said I was security 'here'."

Angry Businessman: "What?!"

Henry: "WHAT?!

From across the room, Henry hears Jacob, and accidently drops the double sundae he was carrying. The glass containing it breaks.

Jacob: "He's obviously not getting a tip… But yes, Grumpy Bald Man. I am security for another community. One in which is not as wealthy as you all think you are, and yet is far more 'wealthy' than you may ever be."

Angry Businessman: "Wait, I think I've seen you before. You… You're the acting General for the Kingdom of Vale, aren't you?!" Everybody hears the Businessman as he points out who Jacob is. Other than Jacques and Ironwood, everybody silently talk amongst each other out of surprise. Even Weiss is amazed. "Yes, it all makes sense now. So if this is how Vale's military Commander acts to the public eye, it's no wonder why the Grimm now roam their school!"

Weiss' amazement turns into anger as the Businessman criticizes Jacob.

Jacob: "Now I'll have you know, ever since i came here, I've done nothing but quiet you down, and dealt with unwanted guests, making sure everything at this party went smoothly."

Trophy Wife: "No one asked for your help here! No one asked for your help, except everyone in Vale. It's your fault why it's in the state it's in now! And why we don't have working CCT!"

The people start to become more riled up. Jacob only remains silent, accepting the Fall of Beacon as his responsibility. But unknowingly, Weiss' anger creates an accidental Glyph from the ground, behind her feet.

Ironwood: "Now ladies and gentlemen, that's enough. There is no telling what all could've been done at Beacon, nor what Vale's military had to go through at that time. My military may have been there, but not even my forces could--."

Jacques: "Oh come on, James. You're always taking his side. Your soldiers mostly consisted of machinery, and look what happened with them. Vale's however were all men, invulnerable of being controlled like puppets. It should've been both military forces keeping guard. Not just Atlas, babysitting another Kingdom, like we always do." The people start to laugh from Jacques' remark. "And speaking of babysitting, how's your family doing, Jacob? Hm? When was the last time you took care of your own kind?"

Slowly, as Weiss gets more angry, and at her father this time, something starts to emerge from her Glyph.

Jacob: "Don't go there, Gelé…!"

Jacques: "It's SCHNEE! If you wanna insult my name and talk about how I raise my daughter, then why shouldn't I do the same to you?!"

Jacob: "At least I give a damn to speak in their defense! Even in YOUR daughter's defense, as a matter of fact!"

Jacques: "Riiight, but you expect me to look past how you let the White Fang bring my company to its fallback years ago?! Don't pretend to care about my family! You care only about one thing, and you forget about the next thing! It's no wonder why your wife and kids are so dysfunctional!"

By this time, after hearing her father's hypocrisy and disrespect, Weiss reaches her limit. Before Jacob could do anything out of his own frustration, he and everyone else look back at what she had summoned, fully emerged from her Glyph.

Just like the Boarbatusk, Weiss had summoned an Atlesian Paladin. The same kind, like she had defeated at the Battle of Beacon. Everyone, except Weiss, Jacob, Jacques, and Ironwood run toward the walls. They all look up at it, while it looks down at Jacques. Slowly, it walks up to him.

Quickly, Ironwood takes back out his Revolver, and shoots at it. But his rounds only deflect off of it. Now he becomes slightly worried, until he looks over to Jacob, who is still upset with Jacques.

Jacques: "Weiss, dismiss this thing at once!"

Weiss: "I-I don't know how! It was an accident, I swear!"

Jacques: "Grr! Jacob, please do something!"

The closer the Paladin walks up to Jacques, the more he steps back. And Jacob just watches as it does.

Jacob: "You don't insult a man's family, Gelé. You can call him out on his actions, shame him for the things he's done and hasn't done, or maybe even speak against his own name. I was wrong, and I fully accept responsibility for doing that myself. But a man's wife and kids are off limits. Take them away, and you give him nothing to lose."

Jacques: "Okay, I'm sorry! Just… get rid of this thing!"

Jacob: "Okay, sure… But first, you have to say it."

Jacques: "Say what?!"

Jacob: "You know. The same peace treaty you agreed to say to the public, when we freed your slaves."

Another step from the Paladin, and another step back from Jacques.

Jacques: "Alright, fine! 'The Schnee Dust Company will no longer confine and enslave civilians, mainly Faunus, in activities of extracting dust with no protective gear, or any other hazardous and humiliating practices! To do as such is oppressive, and disgraceful to the Schnee name! From this day forth--!'"

Jacob: "We're passed that now (I hope). Go towards my favorite part in the end. Oh, but before you do that last section, give me an apologetic family edition. Choose your words carefully, and say it like you mean it."

Yet, another step forward, and another step back.

Jacques: "Ugh! Also, the General is a much better, cooler, more handsome Jacques than I am. He also does a good job, raising his children, and taking care of his wife! I should learn from him, and I hope to be just like him, if not better!"

Jacob: "And now, give us that last sweet part."

Jacques: "I-I'd rather die than do that one again!" After stepping back once more, Jacques finds himself literally backed up to a corner, with the Paladin getting much closer. Because of this, he gives in to continue reciting the peace treaty. "Oh Monty…! '...For I, Jacques… 'Gelé… am sorry. And would just like to let everyone know… that I suck… and that I'm a girl… and I like ribbons in my hair…!'"

Jacob: "Aaand…!"

Jacques: "*sigh* 'And I want to kiss all the boys!' Now enough of this, and get this witchcraft contraption away from me!"

Jacob: "Best. Surrender. Ever… of all time!"

Weiss: "...This was a Peace Treaty?" While Weiss ponders on her father's humiliation (noting that this may have happened years ago when she was not around), Jacob, as he promised, steps up. To take out the Paladin, he reaches for his weapon on his back. Weiss gets a good view of it, as well as now noticing its double golden crescent symbol. "*gasp* T-That's…!"

Jacob: "Now, how should I take this guy down?" On Jacob's back is a wide shield in whitish silver, accented in gold. "Should I use… Utonium?" He grasps the handle, centered above it. Doing so, a small bit of levitation comes from the ground, making small particles lift up, and people feeling something like the wind come from below. "Nah, it's not that tough."

Jacob let's go of his weapon, and everything gets placed back at ease.

The Paladin slowly brings its fist back, about to strike Jacques. He holds his arms up for defense.

Ironwood: "Jacob, would you stop playing around! This isn't a joke!"

Jacob: "Alright, alright. I'm gonna help him anyway." Again, from what Weiss mislooked, she sees Jacob reach for another weapon set, but at his left hip. A straight and long set of a white handle in a white sheath. But as he does so, he gives off a more serious energy. "...As I raise my sword, Flourish…" He swiftly draws his sword from its sheath, revealing its blue, straight single-edged blade (a white and blue chokuto). "...and bare arms, Fair..." He then holds his sheath out, which shortens and transforms into a rifle, and clicks it, ready to fire. "...You shall repent for your actions."

Right before the Paladin's fist reaches Jacques, Jacob shoots a big gaping hole through it. It remains still, allowing Jacques to drop his guard. That is until its top half starts to fall, showing it had been cut. Previously, not to the naked eye, but Jacob's sword draw had split the Paladin. Up until now, it falls down toward Jacques, making him scream, fall to his knees, and put his guard back up.

At the last minute, it disintegrates into snow dust like Glyph particles. It creates a wave of a cool breeze across the room, making everyone shiver. A small silence before Jacob sheathes Flourish into Fair, putting them back at his side.

Jacob: "Jacques, I'll be taking that painting back there, and I'll be on my way. It's obvious that I'm not wanted, and this Knight has made a Fool of himself among self-entitled Kings and Queens." Jacob takes out some lien, and throws it at Jacques' knees. "Here."

Jacques: "Now-- Now just you wait a minute, Jacob! We're not fini--!"

Jacob: "(holler) Sweetheart…!" Within the crowd, Jacob calls out for someone. "...come grab this for me, please! Put it in the truck, thank you!"

From within the crowd, a short young woman with a pink sleeveless, white accented dress strides out. Her make-up shows, yet is overshadowed itself from a cutesy allure. Her hair is in one braid, tied towards the back. Concealing her mussel, shoulders, and top assets is a pinkish orange scarf. The dress she wears is long enough to conceal her legs, only revealing her high heel boots. Jacques looks at her and back to Jacob, standing back up.

Jacques: "Y-You can't just leave, after the stunt you--!"

As she passes Jacques, the young woman aggressively bumps Jacques, and continues toward the painting of Beacon Academy in its former glory.

Jacob: "Actually, my daughter there thinks otherwise. So, I can, and I will."

Jacques: "Your… Your daughter?!"

The young woman, Jacob's daughter, picks up the large painting, over her shoulder. She narrows her eyes at Jacques, with the thought of her and her family being called 'dysfunctional' from before, and walks outside.

Jacob: "Yeah… Don't worry, she'll get over what you said about her and her siblings. As for me, I am sorry myself for how I acted… Enjoy your party."

After walking from a dumb-founded Jacques, Jacob walks toward Ironwood.

Ironwood: "(whisper) Look, Jacob, that… I'll admit, actually was pretty funny… but is not how we conduct ourselves! Not even your troops in Vale act the way you do!"

Jacob: "And they shouldn't. But I just wanted to show everyone here what they all look like when they humiliate the lower-class, which I am a part of, military aside."

Ironwood: "*sigh* There's never any compromise with you two, I swear… There's no telling what the people will think of him now, after you've made him show off his darker side."

Jacob: "Don't worry about it. Besides, this'll hardly matter, when the War escalates."

Ironwood: "What?!"

Jacob: "You and I both know that things are close to hitting the fan, like it or not. You can't win a war before it begins. Not unless you want more innocence to die. It's sad, I know… That's why I came here, to give you my seat in the Atlesian Council." Just then, Ironwood becomes shocked. "At least until I come back."

Ironwood: "What?! I-I already--! But why would--?!"

Jacob: "Just trust me. I got three more from the other Kingdoms anyway. And now YOU get to have three in this Kingdom. I'd give it to Oz, except, well, you know… But I trust you, James." Jacob straightens out Ironwood's uniform, out of a sense of respect. "Just keep her warm for me. You're one of the only few people in Atlas I can put my faith in. So I'm counting on you. Just right now, I have some…" Jacob places his hand on top of Flourish's handle for emphasis of his… "...important business to take care of."

Ironwood: "You mean more important than cleaning up the mess in Vale? With all the Grimm, and that… Monster up at Beacon? More important than the fate of Atlas, or Remnant?!"

Jacob: "...Yes." Ironwood becomes even more dumbfounded. Almost disgusted, thinking what could be more important than taking care of the Kingdoms. "It's like Gelé said: 'I care about one thing, but I forget about another'. And I'm gonna fix that. Just know that if I don't handle this now, the council, and even the Grimm alone will be the least of our worries…" Jacob then walks off. "Take care, James. I'll be in touch, next time I come to Atlas. In the meantime, don't let Mr. Frosty bite you around! *chuckle* And, uh, clean yourself up a bit."

While Ironwood rubs his chin, after Jacob was referring to his unshaven face, Jacob walks up to Weiss. By his actions, she is overwhelmed by what all he did. And to her father, no less.

Jacob: "Boy have you had a long night, huh? Look, sorry for schooling your old man. I was just hoping he'd change since our last 'talk'."

Weiss: "Oh… No it's fine. I'm… sorry about the things he said. What everyone said…"

In most cases, Weiss would defend her family name. Even her father, given his own arrogance. But after how Jacques acted today, she felt that he was somewhat deserving of what happened to him. It is also the first time in a long time in which Weiss can recall her father going through any kind of humility. And from someone like Jacob, holding an intimidating persona, deep within.

Jacob: "Don't apologize. What they said was mostly true. Your dad may be snobby, but he is wise. He was even wise before becoming a Schnee. So listen to him, and respect him. But follow your own path, no matter what. You are more than just a name." The words from Jacob give Weiss an uplift, and motivation. To add onto that, he takes out a card from his sleeve, and discretely gives it to her. "And if your path leads you to get away from the guy every now and then, give this guy here a holler. He may be a bit stubborn or reluctant much, but if you play your cards right…" From out of his other sleeve, he takes out a collection of lien. Weiss looks surprised at how he has this. "...he'll get you where you wanna go. Unknown courtesy of your Daddy Dearest Richest." By that, Weiss quickly takes it, noting that Jacob had pickpocketed Jacques at some point. "Maybe Mistral. I heard that there's going to be 'a lot' going on there soon. Maybe we'll see Winter."

Weiss: "Winter?!"

Jacob turns and steps away.

Jacob: "Take care, Ms. Schnee. And behave yourself."

By that, Jacob had left the building. With him gone, the party continues with added awkwardness still present. Before Jacques, or anyone else could interact with her, Weiss discretely looks down at the card Jacob gave her. It is written with the contact information of a pilot, with Jacob's full name and rank already printed on the card.

"General Jacques David Arc"

Weiss: "*gasp*"

(Beacon Dance…)

Weiss and Neptune sit next to one another while conversing. One of them had mustered up the courage to talk to the other, after the other had already gotten turned down by that one. The dance had kicked off after playing some of Remnant's hit music, from JC Wills. To lead and show off in this dance is Team JNPR in their former full glory.

Weiss: "So what made you change your mind?"

Neptune: "Huh?"

Weiss: "You said you were embarrassed at first. What made you come talk to me?"

Neptune: "You're lookin' at him." Weiss looks over to where Neptune looks over. And they both see the Leader of the same team dancing with his partner, in a dress. "You've got some good friends looking out for you."

(Presently With Jacob…)

Outside of the ceremony, Jacob's daughter jogs up to him, leaving the building. After putting the picture away, she had already changed attires, and loosened her hair down with pigtails on the side. She now takes on her Huntress form, showing of her armor, clothes, and uncovered face (revealing who she is).

Jacob: "Did you wrap up the painting, Catherine?"

Catherine: "Yes, daddy."

Jacob: "Good. Did you record everything like I asked?"

Catherine: "Sure did! I've already sent the video to your scroll. I can't wait to edit his apology into a song!"

Jacob: "That's a good girl. Let's get outta here."

Jacob and Catherine Arc leave, and walk off towards the parking lot. Their vehicle, Jacob's family vehicle, is a militant, yet somehow civilized, 7 ton medium tactical vehicle replacement truck (MTVR). Its colors consist of the body being white, the attachments and details being black, and the attachments' edges streaked with eight different colors on each section. The inside is designed like any comfortable family vehicle, but with enough room for more than eight in the back.

Both Jacob and Catherine get inside with Catherine in the driver's seat. Jacob gets in the back, about to change attires himself.

Jacob: "Time to go from General to Huntsman."

Catherine: "Where to, daddy?"

Jacob: "To the Kingdom of Mistral, so we can show the wrong what's right, and right my wrongs." The truck starts, and Jacob looks at the rearview mirror to Catherine. "But more importantly, so we can bring our boys back."

Catherine drives off at top speed. Her and her father, Jacob (Jacques) Arc make their way down the road, on a road trip to Mistral, where they're expecting a battle. Those who are there are expecting otherwise. Not the enemies, that is. For they are those who will have it begin. From cross-borders to Anima and Mistral, everyone will have to be ready for their battle ground in Haven Academy.

Credits for the idea of Flourish and Fair goes to asdfguy432. Check out some of his stories, like "Adam Arc", wear the weapons originally came from.