Venturing Into the Arcverse
DragonTetho: Hmm, haven't thought about that. Another idea for later.
Gonsmoss: I read your review, though not sure if I got back to you on it.
morijingod: One of those three will be next chapter.
Kaiser Umbra: I'm surprised auto-correct didn't point them out...that or it's the cause for them.
X3runner: I feel I don't know what you mean .
daleaaronallen82: I have ideas for all but one of those suggestions.
ZirioAkatsuki: Where does that take place? Sounds like Tekkan.
Dark Emperor Z: Hmm, maybe during one of the chapters after ch. 10.
WaqueKoala 2.0: Yes, after I watch a playthrough.
Guest 1: Honestly, I wasn't thinking El Tigre till I saw your review.A good idea, hopefully I can actually find it.
GHOST09: Yeah, sorry. I am planning on making it longer in later chapters.
Saito: What memes are you talking about?
Guest 2: Your opinion does not matter to me.
Ch. 8: Betrayal A Knight's White Rose
Draco was looking through the Verseballs, looking for the next universe. It was would be one that is rated M, and knew the one he wanted to show. Well, that was until a Verseball appeared in front of him with the numbers 1994. He held up his hand, and took it from the air. He opened the menu to view the universe, and a somewhat sad smile appeared on his face. Deciding to bookmark the universe he chose before for later, he headed back to the audience. And that also brought another thought to him.
"I can't believe they are going to show something so indecent." Glynda groans, rubbing her forehead.
"I agree," Winter said "It's like an invasion of privacy." She also particularly want her sister to be shown up there as well. Taiyang was in the same boat as he didn't want to see his daughters in such a setting. Qrow agreed as well, and Ghira doesn't want to see Blake up there. Kali didn't have that concern as she wants grandchildren and want to see who is the lucky person for her daughter.
"Oh, this will be good." Mercury said, leaning back.
"And of course, you want to watch." Emerald said, glaring at Mercury.
"Hey, this is as close most guys will get. So might as well enjoy it."
"You're disgusting."
"Takes one to know one." While they bickered, Cinder is planning. While the veteran Huntsmen and Huntresses most likely know, the art of seduction is perfect for information gathering or, if you play your cards right, gain a valuable ally who would do anything you ask if it means they can have sexual relations with you again. These types of viewings can show what is needed to find those pleasure points. Now if only they-
"Alright, alright, with popular demand: I won't erase your memories." Draco said, entering the room.
-Never mind, this got a lot more interesting.
"What changed your mind?" Ruby asks.
"You see young Rose, others who are like me pointed out some points that I may have overlooked. And in the end, decided to let you keep your memory." Draco answers. A collective sigh escapes the heroes as Yang shouts to the villains:
"Ha! Good luck trying to get the drop on us now bitches!" Emerald and Mercury glared the blonde brawler but didn't say anything. Cinder expression was neutral but she realize she has to think of another plan now that their alias is ruined. Draco looked on, knowing that while he hasn't shown a universe that shows them their future, wheels are beginning to turn the hands of fate. The real question is will they be able to fight their destiny or will it follow the same path? But...there is one thing he want done before anything serious is shown. Draco looks toward Ozpin, who didn't notice till the last moment when Ilia spoke up.
"What universe are you going to show us?"
"Yeah, Adrian is wanting to see his uncle again." Saphron adds, the toddler babbling happily while waiting for the screen to show his uncle again.
"Oh, right. It's right here." Draco said, holding up the 1994 Verseball.
"Wait...is that an universe of another one of your people?" Roman asks.
"Yes, it is. This is from a person named DAM1994." Roman nods as he leans back into his chair. Once he sees everyone has their attention toward the screen, he tossed up the Verseball and released the universe into the screen.
Ruby Rose had her fair share of regrets, some small like forgetting her wallet at home or eating one too many cookies. Some large, like not spending nearly as much time as she should've with Pyrrha, yet above all the others there remained one regret that reigned supreme. And she was looking at that very person on the TV screen.
"And Yang Xiao Long is out! Ladies! gentleman! Give it up for your champion, our Mistral regional tournament's Five-time Winner, Jaune Arc!"
Silver eyes looked to the screen overjoyed for him and a bit sad for her sister, beside her Weiss looked on as well seeming none too surprised at Jaune's win. After all he wasn't the damsel in a tree anymore, he hadn't been since The Fall and in the past ten years he'd grown. Looking at his form on the screen she smiled, seeing him raise his family's sword in the air she felt the urge to cheer happily, however that urge soon begun to dampen with the more she looked.
He looked so happy on screen, like nothing could ruin his day, she liked that smile, always had ever since they'd met, that smile had been a comfort, especially after her team had split apart. That smile made her heartbeat quicken even now, but it also made her chest ache … because he'd never show her that smile anymore, not her…
That was a lot of baggage the audience isn't sure where to start with. Though it shocks them that Jaune not only defeated Yang, but managed to overtake Pyrrha's record and is the current champion, they couldn't help but note the negative.
"W-What does that me mean? What happened to Pyrrha? What is the Fall? Why won't Jaune at me anymore?" Ruby asks, pain slipping into her voice.
"I'm sure it's not that bad," Yang said, "I mean, you and Pyrrha might've had a falling out and not talking with one another."
"But...the way she said it...it's like..."
"Pyrrha was killed." Draco said. This shocked the heroes, and before they began talking, Draco continued "It happened during the Fall. She went and fought Cinder over here, who just killed Ozpin and had fell to her."
"That bitch killed Oz?" Qrow asks, not believing it and earning a glare from Cinder and Emerald.
"Yes."
"What is this Fall?" Ironwood asks.
"Yes, it sounds terrible." Ghira adds.
"...The Fall of Beacon." Once again, in short time, the heroes were shocked. But Cinder and her cohorts, they are way to thrilled. Not only that their plan had succeeded, they managed to take down two people who are some of the few that would be their biggest threat.
"And why Jaune not smiling at me...?" Ruby asks.
"...Continue watching, and you will find out." Naruto answers.
"Ruby?" Silver eyes snapped from her thoughts, and she looked to her hand to see her fist clenched while a pale hand squeezed it both having a matching pair of wedding bands. Looking up silver met icy blue as she looked to a slightly concerned Weiss.
"WE'RE MARRIED!?" Ruby and Weiss shouts, shocked. Taiyang felt faint as Qrow began downing his new flask, not believing it. Winter couldn't believe it either as she groans. She's happy Weiss found happiness, but she don't want Qrow to hang this over her head.
"Are you okay…" Quickly Ruby rubbed her face.
"Y-Yeah… Peachy." Weiss's gaze fell annoyed showing she clearly wasn't buying it. Ruby knew she wouldn't, Weiss knew her too well.
"'sigh' It's nothing… Just, I guess I miss Jaune." It was true in more than one way… She did miss Jaune, she missed those days before that night in Atlas… Weiss smile became more forced and Ruby could see it a tinge of guilt, not that Weiss deserved it. Ever since they started dating, since Jaune had distance himself from them Weiss always looked guilt ridden. Like she'd done something wrong when it was her fault, her who kept a secret and who betrayed his trust.
Both of the girl's scrolls ringed and when they pulled them out they read a message from Yang and a picture attached. Her sister stood a huge smile plastered on her face one arm holding up her silver trophy while the other was wrapped around Jaune himself who seemed to have given up on resisting.
From: Big Sister
Blonde's do it best, look at the two hottest fighter's in Remnant.
Ruby smiled at the pic, glad to see Yang didn't seem too upset over her loss, honestly you'd think after the first two losses from the years prior she'd give up on winning Jaune in a match. But Yang was stubborn, funny really if somebody had told her Jaune would beat Yang in her Beacon days she'd take them to the nurse's office out of concern.
"Hey, Fearless Leader can totally kick Yang's butt!" Nora exclaims.
"Oh? You want to bet?" Yang asks, grinning. Nora was about to answer but Ren covered her mouth.
"Don't make a bet on Jaune when he isn't here." He said. Nora sighs as she sat back in her seat, crossing her arms and pouting.
Yet now Jaune stood proud against the brawler a perfect three for three, really though while Yang's semblance was stupid strong Jaune's was just way to Overpowered. Aura amplification was the single strongest semblance recorded thus far.
Boosting someone semblance by over fifty fold like Jaune had with Ren on the Argus express, healing fatal wounds in a matter of minutes like Weiss or boosting his own shield to the point it took a mech designed to kill leviathan's falcon punching it. And Those were just off the top of her head and when it was still new to him, but now, now he'd mastered it.
"So Mr. Arc's Semblance is Aura Amplification? That explains his large Aura reserves." Ozpin said.
"A Semblance that requires a mech designed to kill freakishly huge Grimm to get through it does sound overpowered." Coco said.
"And from what Miss. Rose said, that was only when it was still new to him. And now that he mastered it, his skill may just be limitless." Glynda spoke up.
Ruby's thoughts quickly shifted as she looked to her sister's message, before she found herself waiting, hoping for a message from the one person she knew wouldn't call her. He hadn't the first time he won a tournament nor the second or third. Heck Jaune didn't even tell them when he was in Atlas last year, she looked to the picture of him smiling and felt her heart break.
What else would you feel when the man you love wouldn't speak to you…
Don't get her wrong! she loved Weiss, sure they had a rough start but they'd became fast friends, and then the closest of partners and family in all but blood. And after 'that' night in Atlas… They became something even more, she didn't regret getting together with Weiss, no what she regretted was how they'd gotten together and who'd she'd wronged in doing so.
That was a sobering thought to say the least...well, to those who actually cared about that stuff. Ruby loved Jaune, but she chose Weiss over him. Instead of asking what happened, they decided to continue watching.
She remembered being mad and coming to Jaune knowing he'd give her the best advice he could, he always did and just claimed he was returning the favor for back when she'd encouraged him in Beacon, like he'd hadn't repaid that a dozen fold by having her side when nobody else did, even bringing Nora and Ren.
It was Weiss's father, when they'd landed in Atlas almost immediately they came for Weiss. She remembered the man, looking every bit the villain Blake had told them he was. He'd said things to Weiss a father should never say, calling her a failure, traitor and even denouncing her as a Schnee. Ruby would've punched him if she wasn't standing by Weiss to give her support, for a moment there she was sure Yang was gonna knock his block off.
Yet the one to throw the punch was none other than Jaune who broke the old coot's nose. To Jaune family was everything and he made it very clear Jacques failed as a father and a human being. After all that the general came to pick them up and the rest was history, yet she was still mad.
"Of course it is father." Winter sighs, pinching the bridge of her nose.
"Who says that to their own child?" Taiyang asks, angered that a parent will say that about to their own child.
"No one should ever say that." Ghira growls, eyes narrowed. Sienna, Ilia, and Adam didn't react as they didn't really care about the Schnees. But they were unsure about a human agreeing that Jacque Schnee is a villain.
"It's not going to end well for Mr. Arc." James sighs.
"Why? From what was said, he deserved it." Nora spoke up.
"Because Jacque is one of the most powerful in Atlas, and can have Mr. Arc arrested. Especially since he interfered in family matters."
"How could he say that to her!" Jaune sat on the table nearby looking to her a halfhearted smile with no real joy behind it.
"I know Ruby… I was there too." Ruby turned to him, back then her feelings had begun to bud, maybe it was that he'd had her back when nobody else did. Maybe it was how he'd grown but regardless ever since her normal Beacon life came crashing down she'd come to see Jaune for what she thought Pyrrha saw. Oum above it made her feel weird, she didn't do crushes! It was annoying and embarrassing and so confusing.
"Hey Craterface?" Ruby blinked feeling a hand on her shoulder and when she looked up her silver eyes met his deep blue pools. She'd never turned so red so fast.
"Are you sure your fine?" Words escaped her panicked state; he was close so much so she could almost feel his breath.
"Y-yeah I'm fine now! Thanks, `Jaune!"
"Weiss will be fine, it'd take more than the crap that old bastard said to her to get our resident Snow Angel. You should know that better than anyone." Ruby nodded a smile beginning to show, Jaune was right.
"Your right… Thanks Jaune." He nodded back.
"Any time Rubes." She felt his hand pull away and with it was a bit of displeasure, gods she hated this, stupid hormones! Stupid Nora for saying she like-liked Jaune! And stupid her for that being true! It was true after all, her first crush, no she wouldn't call it that even if others would. Her first love was her best friend, maybe it was that he'd had her back when nobody else did after The Fall. Maybe it was that moment she nearly gave in and apologized to him in Kuroyuri and he'd encouraged her with a smile and genuine praise.
No, it wasn't those, well not just those but everything, every step on their journey every supportive word and genuine praise. He'd been her support despite needing one himself and everyday she'd watched him inch towards her idea of a storybook knight. Gods why'd Nora have to be a psychic at these things…
"Living with Pyrrha, you tend to pick up some things." Nora said.
"N-Nora!?" Pyrrha yelps. Ren didn't say anything, but he had a small smile on his face.
"So are you feeling better." Ruby paused looking to him confused before he expanded.
"About not having the relic around anymore? I mean it has to be a weight off your shoulder now that it's safe in the vault?" Ruby nodded.
"Yeah, I mean I don't hate Jinn or anything but that thing drawing Grimm to us was no fun." Jaune chuckled.
"Yeah no kidding, especially during the whole Argus express debacle." Ruby giggled while the blonde himself chuckled, she liked that chuckle and the way he scratched the back of his head when he was embarrassed. Several seconds passed like that, before awkward silence begun to set in and finally, he asked.
"So what's the plan now?" Ruby looked to him curiously.
"Waddaya mean?" Jaune looked back to her a brow rose.
"I mean where are we heading next? We going back to Mistral, heading to Vacuo to meet up with the other huntsmen-in-training from Vale or are we going to finish off that dragon now that your overpowered eye thingy is unlocked?" Several seconds passed before she spoke.
"Y-you'll come with us? Me and my team?" Now it was Jaune's turn to look confused.
"Did you ever think we wouldn't?" He smiled at her.
"After all just cause team RWBYs back together doesn't mean you get to jump ship on RNJR." Ruby just watched him silver pools shimmering as her chest heated, Oum dammit Nora!
"Yeah! Once you are apart of us, there is no letting you go!" Nora states, bear hugging Ruby.
"Too tight...too tight...!" Ruby breathed out. Saphron looks onto the screen, then to the students before smiling. It really do seem Jaune made some great friends while at Beacon.
"W-well um, I haven't really… thought about yet." Several silent seconds passed before the Arc couldn't hold it any longer and laughed. Ruby's face burned red.
"Hey, its not that funny!" Jaune must have found her whines particularly hilarious because his laughter only grew.
"S-sorry, it's just 'pfft' That's so you, when we're in the thick of it your all armed and ready knowing exactly what to do but your hopeless without direction." She pouted as her cheeks burned from his sorta praise.
"Ozpin. I think it's safe to say that Mr. Arc and Miss. Rose on the same team would've really made one interesting team." Glynda said.
"Indeed. I probably had to actually make some exceptions to the rules just so the other teams can have a chance at victory, especially if they are paired with their current partners," Ozpin agrees "And deciding on who leader would be a headache." Ruby, Weiss, and Pyrrha felt a bit more proud at the praise Ozpin gave them.
"How would you decide?"
"Coin flip." Glynda sighs turning back to the screen. Unknown to everyone, a certain Verseball glowed.
It was the last pleasant memory she had before he stopped laughing. Before he looked up to her with such serious and resolved eyes.
Ruby let out a sad sigh at the memory before feeling a slender finger brush the corner of her eyes, turning she saw Weiss. Icy blue eyes looking her over concerningly, she smiled, it was fine, she was fine. It was then she'd received a message and turned to her scroll excitedly, hopefully… and then disappointed.
Oscar:
She frowned, tapping the screen to read the message, what was written inside made her still.
Oscar: Reunion
Sent: All
Hey guys, just a reminder, next Sunday we're throwing a little get together in Beacon while the students have their dance. RSVP.
She smiled at first.
Qrow: Sorry kiddo, out on a mission with Tai.
Before pausing eyes wide.
Yang: Hells Yeah, me and Kitkat will be there!
She looked it over again to make sure.
Blake: I've made room in my schedule.
She showed Weiss to make sure she wasn't just seeing things.
Nora: Woohoo! Pancake Party!
And the former heiress confirmed looking just as surprised.
Ren: Ignore her, we will attend.
She trembled as she read his response over.
Jaune: Sure, see you there.
Jaune was going, he never went to parties where'd she'd or Weiss be! No matter how many times she'd tried to have him celebrate with them he always rejected her invitations, making excuses or conveniently picking up a mission just as the day neared. He'd always wait to see if her or Weiss would attend before responding no. Had been for past seven years.
"He been avoiding them for seven years?!" Yang exclaims, shocked.
"What happened to cause that to happen?" Sun asks, not seeing himself do something like that.
"It must have something to do with how they got together." Blake said, remembering what the Ruby on screen said earlier.
"Maybe it's because she..." Ilia began, but shook her head.
"What is it, Ilia?" Sienna asks.
"It's nothing."
"Come now, I'm sure it might have some form of reason."
"Well...maybe it's because she had played with his feelings." The students wanted to deny it, but unlike with Mercury's assumption, there is hints of evidence that is leaning toward that conclusion. So they can't really outright oppose that thought no matter how much they want to.
"That was a nice thought. And here I thought you didn't like drama shows." Sienna said, chuckling lightly.
"Yeah...drama..."Ilia murmurs, thinking about her own feelings in regard toward Blake's and Adam's past relationship.
Yet here it was, his confirmation. He was going to the reunion, even now she blinked to make sure it was there. His confirmation, his word…
"Ruby…" Weiss traced her fingers on her cheek concern clear but also confused as tears fell in equal measure with her widening smile. He'd be there, he'd really be there…
When we're in the thick of it your all armed and ready knowing exactly what to do but your hopeless without direction.
Fingers quickly typed away with enough force to break a normal none reinforced scroll.
Ruby: Yay! We'll be there! Swearsies!
That caused a few to chuckle on who knew Ruby, who pouts cutely.
He let out a breath at seeing her response… Ruby. His heart clenched at the thought of the younger brunette as he bit his lip. He didn't know if he was happy or more nervous seeing her response. Again he exhaled before looking up at the ceiling. This was gonna be hard, facing them, facing her… But he was an Arc and his word everything. He was going and he knew she'd want to see him. And the thought of those silver pools terrified him so much so he shook.
Those formally inviting kind silver eyes that promised understanding, kindness and friendship… Those orbs he'd stared into when he confessed that pleasant evening. And those eyes that looked away from him the next day when she was holding Weiss's hand a smile on her face. He bit his lip a tear running down his cheek.
"Yo V.B. come on hurry up Mamas hungry!" Jaune chuckled, good old Yang, he wiped his face before taking a deep breath and turning his best smile on.
"Yeah yeah, come on let's head to a Sushi joint I know a really good one." Yang rolled her eyes but Blake was practically drooling at the mouth.
"Well, well Vomitboy, Sushi huh, pricey stuff, what's the occasion." Jaune smirked.
"Besides me whooping you?" Yang eye twitched despite the smile.
"We're having a rematch tonight!" Jaune chuckled more then up for a spar.
"Seriously though, what's up." His smile retreated then as he decided to answer honestly instead of letting the sexy duo pry.
"Just… Thanks, for giving me the push to reply yes… I don't think I would've otherwise." The two looked to one another before nodding.
"Thank you, Yang and Blake." Pyrrha said, smiling to the duo.
"Hey, we're friends. We would glad to help fix any rift that comes between us," Yang responds, grinning "I'm sure you all would do the same for me."
"More than you realize." Draco thought, knowing what would happen in their future.
"Sure what are pals for, besides… Sis misses her bestie." Guilt hammered before a reassuring hand gripped his shoulder and he turned to Blake.
"You've done a lot for my people, the Matsu Island Negotiations, helping the coasting village for relocated Menagerie residents and so much more. The least I could do was give you the push you needed to reconnect to a friend" He smiled, while Yang nodded sadly.
"Rubes misses you and even if she won't admit it so does Weisscream… Look, 'sigh' I can't really act like you don't have the right to avoid them but… You can't just avoid sis and the princess." He nodded.
"Thanks… well, let's grab some chow." Seeing them would be hard but Blake was right, he needed this… Needed to stop running away and hopefully to clear the air…
'ring, ring' Both girls paused as Jaune checked his scroll finding a date.
"Huh, next Monday." After all soon his dad would be stepping down and he'd become his houses Patriarch, Yang curious peeked over his shoulder before whistling.
"Damn VB, that your girl?" Jaune chuckled shaking his head.
"Sorta, I'll explain over dinner."
"Ooh, seems like the knight has move on." Roman said, lighting a cigar. Thankfully, the hosts made it where the smoke won't bother others thus able to smoke without a care in the world.
"Grr...whoever it is...stay away from my BMFF (Best Male Friend Forever)." Ruby thought, not liking that some girl is trying to move in on Jaune. Ignoring the fact she in that universe had caused that to happen.
Weiss looked to herself in the mirror, she looked elegant, nothing fancy of course a nice deep blue cocktail dress with only two straps over her pale back. Her hair was done in its old style the sideward ponytail and nothing more, she knew why she'd set it in such a way and it filled her with guilt but also anticipation. Gods was she horrible for being so elated, so hopeful, so traitorous, her eyes looked to her wedding band and she bit her lip.
She remembered their wedding, both wore white dresses detailed with their favored colors, both exchanged vows and both were in love. Yet a horrid little part of herself despised that she'd wanted 'him' to come in and deny the wedding. Yet he never even attended, he was the only one invited who hadn't. Surely he was with that 'other' girl, the mystery woman who'd captivated him so, who won him over herself.
"Uh...I get Ruby...but Weiss too?" Nora wonders, tilting her head.
"I wonder what her story is." Terra comments.
"Oh my gosh, Jaune is becoming a Lady Killer." Saphron said, bouncing Adrian on her lap.
"Am I the only one who notes that Ice Princess-" "Hey!" "-Wanted him to crash the wedding and deny it?" Qrow asks.
"No dear brother, I noted it as well." Raven answers.
"Damn it," Qrow groans, not liking to agree with Raven.
"I heard it too." Mercury said.
"Double damn it."
"Jaune!" The boy stopped looking back to her anger clear in his gaze until he realized it was her, azure calmed as his expression grew less tense and his smile showed, awkward and a bit scared as it should be.
"You idiot!" He winced and readied to speak up but she'd not be giving the opportunity.
"What were you thinking!? Striking father! A civilian! Are you utterly insane!?" He grimaced.
"He had it coming…" Of course he did, her father had so much negative karma stacked up she was sure it was enough to kill him a thousand times over. But that wasn't what mattered, what mattered was what Jaunes could face, would face for being the one to pay a small bit of the karma to the politically strongest man in Atlas.
"Are you so stupid you'd think there'd be no ramification for this! Do you have any idea what father would do to you for this?" Jaune rose a brow.
"Would?" She sighed.
"Yes would, I spoke to sister, she promised she'd smooth thing overs." Jaune exhaled which only served to anger her more, it meant he understood he was in peril, that he'd done bad. And she'd be making sure he didn't do it again.
"That is what I mean," James said "It'll be foolish to touch Jacque Schnee. Unless you have some sort of evidence to your actions, attacking him will make sure your life is over...or wish it was over."
"And yet, numerous Faunus has stepped forward with said evidence and found what form of justice? Nothing." Adam retorts, sneering.
"Their claims has been investigated and were found inconclusive." Winter spoke up.
"That's a lie, and you know it!" Ilia said, glaring at Winter.
"All reports sent to us explains that the evidence was false and was a means to show support to the White Fang's cause." James said, glaring.
"Show the...Are you mad? You-" Adam began, leaning forward, his anger rising.
"Enough, Adam. Ilia. There is no point in arguing against them," Sienna said, firmly "If they refuse to listen to our words, then maybe they will listen to our actions."
"Sienna, pushing an aggressive approach won't solve anything." Ghira spoke up.
"Didn't you just not hear what was said, Ghira? The General of the Atlas Military, a person who holds two seats on the council and a Specialist is not listening to what we have to say. And it appears that a more aggressive approach is necessary."
"Why you-" James growls.
"Enough." Draco said calmly, yet firmly. This brought everyone attention to him and his co-hosts. Naruto spoke up:
"I get there is a lot you want to say, but please don't do it right now."
"Yeah. There is a better time to do it but for now, just watch the current universe." Natsu adds.
"Aye sir!" Happy agrees. Everyone did as they were told, the ones not knowing the full extent of the war between the White Fang and Atlas seeing parts of why the conflict hasn't ended yet.
"You are not to go anywhere near his study again." Jaune looked to her then his eyes narrowing the slightest bit but she'd not faulter, not to him, not for him.
"Are you going to speak to him again?"
"Of course."
"Then no way."
"What?!" Jaune folded his arms.
"You heard me, no way."
"Why are you being so insistent, Jaune it's for your own good, do you have any idea what my father might do to you?"
"Because if that bastard thinks he can hit you when your friends are around then he's got another thing coming." She blinked as he smirked to her.
"Besides if Nora or Yang caught wind of this the old coot would've been dead where he stood." She blinked but didn't look away as he rubbed the back of his head.
Yang and Nora would've agreed, but after what just happened just a moment ago, figured it was best to keep that detail quiet to themselves.
"After all what are friends for, besides nothing your old man can do can compare to Grimm or bandits so it'll no big deal." She looked away from his smile her face pink.
"You're an idiot."
"Yeah probably but you're stuck with me and the rest of us to Weiss."
"D-dolt." Jaune smile lessened then as he looked to her a note of worry in his eyes.
"We already almost lost you once, I'd rather not risk it again, even if it's only against your father." She paused at his eyes locked to her waist, where her scar was, she saw the worry and resolve.
"Oh." She supposed more than anyone he feared losing anyone else. He turned then and seeing his back, she couldn't help but feel he'd become 'broader' truth be told she'd noticed before, when she'd met back up with Ruby. But she hadn't given much thought to it but now as she watched him leave she couldn't help it. She'd seen Neptune again in just before they departed for Argus, and she felt nothing from it, it certainly hadn't helped that he'd flirted with Illia.
"Idiot..." Neptune sighs at his counterpart. Sun patted his back reassuringly as Ilia faked vomited.
Yet when she was around Jaune… she felt her heartbeat quicken, sure an extent of it was surely the suspension bridge effect she was sure but, but she didn't believe all of it was. And she already had so many regrets, more then she could count.
"Jaune." He paused turning to her then as she looked down her usually pale cheeks crimson.
"There's, there something I wish to tell you, no to ask you?" A brow rose as he turned to her.
"Okay, shoot. What's up Weiss?" eyes knitted at his attitude but also at her name, it'd bugged her since them all meeting back up that he'd called her by it. She was sure her Beacon self would've called her an idiot but she found herself missing her nicknames quite a bit, or at least the one she'd complained about the most. No matter, after this, she'd have him return to calling her such, with a deep breath she met his gaze eyes serious and face very red.
"I-I, 'inhale, exhale' I've become quite fond of you…" He chuckled.
"Yeah, well guess I'm an acquired taste up her in Atlas then huh? Still glad to see I'm finally under your skin." The idiot was he going to make her say it out loud! Oh, right this was Arc of course he was.
"N-no you dolt, that's, 'fluster' that's not what I meant… I, I…" she bit her lip in frustration before she acted stepping forward face completely red, for a moment she'd considered kissing the fool to tell him but found such resolve lacking just yet so instead she settled on meeting his gaze before making it clear.
"I like you!" Face burned but she wouldn't stop here, not after saying that much and risking him somehow misinterpreting her.
"And not the way Nora claims there, no I-I like-like you, admire you and, and…" She could feel her face practically steaming as she spoke.
"Wish to be with you!" She shut her eyes for several seconds, her form so nervous despite it being Arc, Jaune who she knew liked her.
"It seems that Weiss-cream here has fallen for Lady Killer's charms." Yang teased.
"Shut it, you! Just because it happened in that universe doesn't mean it will be the same here." Weiss retorts, though a subconscious thought disagreed with that.
"Snow Ang- No… Weiss." Eyes opened then finding Jaunes standing before her icy orbs looking down and more than a bit shame evident.
"I, I'm…" She saw his lip raise, his fist clenched and face tense as he prepared, she'd recognized it somewhat. But Neptune had looked far less concerned when he'd rejected her for the dance.
"I'm…" Tears formed as he shook and she wanted to believe they were of joy, but she wasn't a foolish girl.
"I'm sorry… But I, there's someone I." She saw him shake and tremble like the act physically hurt him to say and seeing it she couldn't even be mad only hurt as sight flooded from wetness and heart clenched.
"I love R- I love somebody else… I'm so sorry." He'd looked nearly as pained as she felt, no perhaps worse, more pained and regretful, like he'd done her a great slight. The idiot, he was doing nothing wrong, after all it was clear he was still quite drawn to her otherwise he wouldn't be in such a state. Yet he was rejecting her.
"I understand…" She couldn't wait for him to finish, couldn't bare it as she turned to run, she was sure he'd wanted to stop her but couldn't bring himself to, she truly, truly wish he would've.
Eyes knitted at the memory, he'd cried, genuinely cried, to him that rejection was as painful to him to give as it was to her to hear. Which could only mean, that he'd still wanted her back then, desired her, that he'd avoided them to this day only proved it further. She loved Ruby, but Jaune, Jaune was the one that got away, that haunted her with that lovable stupid grin of his and honest kind nature. She didn't know why Jaune agreed but that night she dreamt of it, of him, his hands on her hips as she straddled him, as they gave in to their wants, as he took her.
Taiyang understood what that Jaune went through. Because, even though it didn't happen to him, it could've happened to him. He fell in love with Summer, and continued their family while adding a plus one. But if Raven ever returned...returned to be part of his and Yang's life for real this time...he would have to turn her down no matter how much it hurt him to do so.
Raven must have had a similar thought because her gaze had went to Taiyang. And she remembered the life she gave up to pursue her current life style. She shook her head to shake those memories away. She don't want to think about what she would feel if Taiyang turned her down to stay with Summer. But one thing both could say...
Dreams of the other never truly left them.
Would she leave Ruby, could she, never but… If he held her in his arms, those strong powerful arms that'd once sown his soul in her after they'd made love, committed a deed unforgivable and requested her to be his… she opened her drawer pulling out a thin black fabric, one Ruby had quite enjoyed her wearing their wedding night, she swallowed.
The two dolts had so much in common so perhaps. She slid the underwear on feeling it cling to her moistening sex. She was sure it'd compliment her white negligee beneath, drawing his eyes to it. The thought of him making her tremble and she hated herself for it… But she couldn't deny it, her want, her desire, even if she knew it was a mistake, that it could ruin everything… She was a woman, had been far before she'd been a wife and no matter how much she loved Ruby, she was no man… One who'd make her his… One Like Jaune.
Weiss didn't know what to think. The her in this universe apparently has fallen in love with Jaune. While she wants to be friends with their version of Jaune, she couldn't see herself falling for him. Not with her relationship with Neptune growing...not that she deserve his affection. So to see a version of herself willingly move forward to cheat on the one she married, it was...surprising to say the least.
"I love you Ruby…" Silver eyes looked into determined azure, she didn't know what to say in response, her heart was beating like crazy, her legs were shaking. Butterflies were threatening to explode out of her stomach as he looked to her.
"Wha-what?" Jaune's cheeks burned as his face grew nervous,
"I… I love you, come on Craterface this isn't exactly easy to say you know." Her face burned even hotter and the confirmation. Jaune had, he'd confessed to her, he liked her. It made her so happy and nervous, she felt like she might melt with how hot her cheeks were.
"Um, Rubes?" She looked to him.
"Would you y'know, tell me what you think?" She blinked before it clicked.
"S-sorry!" She saw him visibly diminish at the single word before realization hit.
"N-No! I didn't mean it like a no!" Jaune sighed relieved before blue eyes looked into hers once more, Oum dammit wasn't she supposed to have the eyes that made things turn to stone! Why was his gaze making her freeze up.
"So then? Is that a yes?" She could see his smile spreading, it was such a nice smile that made her heart pound. She swallowed before speaking up.
"Why, why would you say this all of a sudden?" Jaune's smile stiffen at receiving a question as an answer to his confession yet he spoke up anyways.
"I, I don't want to regret Ruby, I, I have to many… And if something happened to me I'd want have no regrets." She knew what he meant, the mission, the fight against Salem might as well be impossible, thinking all seven of them would survive was wishful thinking at best. She knew that, Jaune knew that.
The Inner Circle and everyone who knew of Salem eyes widened, sitting forward. The students knows about Salem and are fighting against her...no...from what they have seen earlier...they...they...
"They won..." Ozpin breathes, barely believing it. After all the countless lifetimes he lived, he had joined the one that will conquer Salem. Salem isn't unstoppable...she can be beaten. And then he remember the question he asked so long ago and the answer he received. He was so shocked that he didn't look deeper into the answer. And realized...Jinn meant he, himself, couldn't beat Salem but that didn't mean someone else had that same limitation. In Raven's case, her eyes are wide as the impossible has been achieved. Possible because of her daughter and friends have done it. Did that mean...? A painful tug entered her heart...does that mean her actions were...?
Cinder and her team eyes were wide. They couldn't believe that Salem lost to those children. It was unbelievable but yet...the proof is on the screen. Could this be their future? Cinder eyes narrowed as those students are all on the list of targets that are needed to be dealt with.
Everyone who weren't in the know was confused at the reactions but decided to stay quiet.
"Why me?" His eyes softened.
"Your, your my best friend, Its, it's not like I've never thought about that, about you like that." Currently dozens of images flashed across her mind, of all the dreams and heart skipping moments.
"Why would you like me, after all Weiss is back and she's super pretty now, and Yang and Blake…" She saw him seeming to tense at Weiss's name, a flash of guilt showing but he spoke up anyway.
"Because they're not you, they're not the girl I travelled Sanus with, who I relied on and who relied on me." He chuckled.
"They're not the bundle of awkward and adorableness I met the first day of Beacon and the one who encouraged me like Pyrrha." Jaunes smile fell.
"When, when Tyrian tried to kill you, when I realized there was nothing I could do, I never felt that scared, and only that useless once before…" She knew what he referred to.
"All I need is a face to that name and I'm going to hunt him down." Qrow growls.
"That makes two of us." Taiyang agrees, cracking his knuckles. Cinder huffed as, like Watts, didn't like Tyrian. But she will tolerate Watts more than the crazed Faunus that is devoted to her Mistress.
"And then in Argus those feelings compounded." He stepped towards her keeping her gaze the entire time as he walked up to her his hand reached for hers taking it, his hands were so much bigger then hers.
"I love you and no matter what you say, what you answer with I still will, I don't want to regret anymore, to leave things unsaid. I'm baring my heart to you, so please, would you bare yours to me, tell me if you can do this, to give me a chance." She looked to him, his eyes pleading for an answer, begging for her to reciprocate, her mouth opened but the words she wanted to say didn't come out. After all she was brave when it came to the grimm, to fighting, to doing what's right. But she was still just a teen, an innocent girl who'd never felt this way before.
"I, can you give me some time?" He paused at her gaze eyes wide and pleading tears forming, she knew that wasn't what he wanted to hear but. But she needed to think, was this really something they should do at a time like this? She knew what she wanted to do, to jump in his arms and say yes, but there was a voice saying not to, that now wasn't the time to be following her heart. To be distracted, to be in a relationship that'd only complicate things further, maybe Jaune saw that because he forced a smile, she could disappointment but not a loss of hope.
"Okay… I can wait, I know now's the worst time to say this, I, I just didn't want to regret not saying it." She watched him visibly slump, half in relief, half in disappointment.
"Hmm...a good decision to say the least," James said "It could complicate the mission, and should be told before-" He stopped talking as a paper ball hit his temple. He looked toward who threw it see Neo who had her scroll up.
"Did you forget what going to happen after this?" she asked. James didn't get it right away but when he did, Glynda was the one to speak up.
"It's getting to the point where Jaune stops interacting with Miss. Rose and Miss. Schnee."
"Eep." Ruby mutters, hiding in her hood.
"I'm sorry…" He looked to her, he could feel the guilt, feel her eyes corners burn but he smiled to her raising a hand wiping away her tears.
"Don't be, I'm actually kinda happy, this means you're taking it seriously right, taking me seriously." She looked up to him, he was smiling and it made her so happy. All she needed was a night, Yeah just one night to gather her thoughts to hear her teammates tell her to go for it. Yang would she was sure, she'd probably threaten Jaune too but she trusted her sister, Blake dated before maybe she'd help her get over these wrecked nerves… Then there was her partner, Weiss would know exactly what to say.
She looked to him and jumped capturing her fellow leader in a hug as tight as she could manage and was happy when he returned it. Tomorrow, tomorrow she would say yes, after her team told her she was being stupid and then she'd make it up to him for making him wait.
Silver eyes looked down to her feet, gone were her favored boots, or even her casual sneakers, instead capturing her was her arch-nemesis, high heels… Seriously how Weiss could wear these all the time was a thing of wonder. Weiss, there was a name that made her heart hammer, but not in the usual thumping of joy or love. But guilt, for what she'd done to Jaune, for what she was gonna do to Weiss, what she planned to do, who she planned to…
"Grr, high heels." Ruby growls. This earned a chuckle from her family. They know Ruby distaste for high heels and would avoid wearing them at all costs.
Her shamed face reddened as she looked to herself, she hadn't chosen a dress yet but she had decided on her … Nightwear. She went out to buy it, so Weiss wouldn't know. A black corset hugged her waist with the tiny slit in the middle to show her belly button. Though she had a bra on she'd question if like her undies they could actually be considered one. There was no padding over her breast only the lining holding the perky hills up in place exposed and open to the room's chill. Her panties were the same a crimson little lacy thing she could see straight through, with a long slit down the crotch exposing her garden. The darkest stockings hugged her legs contrasting with her pale skin.
"Wow Rubes, going all out there for your crush." Yang teased. Ruby peeked out to look, only to hide back into her hood, embarrassed at what her other is wearing.
Her heels were the kind she'd find Weiss wearing, well not exactly they were black the exact opposite of the color she'd prefer. She looked to herself once more, the outfit was embarrassing but she knew it would leave Weiss at a loss for words so maybe, no it'd definitely leave Jaune the same. The fact that she thought that told volumes, that she had every intention of showing him, of…
'I don't want to regret anymore'
Heart clenched at the memory, at his eyes that night and the disappointment he tried to hide, a tear hit the floor followed no sooner by another. She shook and hiccupped, at what she'd done back then, at what she was doing now, and how she knew she'd go through with it, how she wanted to.
'When we're in the thick of it your all armed and ready knowing exactly what to do but your hopeless without direction.'
It was too late now, not in the sense of that she physically could not, but that she wouldn't, she resolved herself, prepared her heart to give him the answer she'd wanted to give all those years ago.
Jaune sighed as he looked to himself, he needed a new suit, this one was a bit… tight. Seriously? It hugged his muscles too much and he was sure if he moved to much it'd tear at the seams. He wished he had the time to adjust it, but… well. He looked to his side finding Crocea Mors absent, it was odd to not have the blade, in all this time there'd only been minutes at a time without it. But it was a formal party, and student or not he'd bet lien that Glynda would give him detention for carrying a weapon on-premise without permission.
This earned a good-natured chuckle from the students and Glynda's colleges. Some things never change apparently.
His heart pounded, whether in excitement or trepidation was anyone's guess, he was excited to see everyone. Heck Nora was calling him nonstop to make sure her fearless leader was actually coming saying she had some big news to show him. He couldn't' help but be curious how the pair was doing, the idea of Ren as a teacher was much to fitting, the Mistralian settling into Ports place all to easily with his loving giddy assistant of a wife beside him.
Nora and Ren both blushed at the news they are together-together. They glance toward one another before looking off blushing. Pyrrha giggles lightly as she saw the interaction.
Yang and Blake would be there too, he had to wonder if Yang was actually gonna follow through with her joke of asking Oscar if he could be the fun little third wheel in her and Blakes 'arrangement' if so good for the former farmboy, after all he endured he deserved a win. A frown formed as he thought of the last pair, the two that made his heart speed and cold sweat show.
Craterface and Snow Angel, No, Weiss and Ruby… His best friend and former crush? Well he supposed both were his former crushes now and more than likely former friends. After all he'd put in quite the effort to distance himself after that morning. He'd fought beside them, lost beside them and endured beside them. But he'd always maintained a distance from them, not physically but emotionally, Ruby hadn't needed his support anymore with her team there to encourage her and Weiss never need it in the first place.
The bullhead begun to lower then, he wanted to groan but knew one way or another he was gonna have to deal with his dammed motion sickness. Loading on it he immediately went to meditation focusing on his breathing like Ren had taught him but when his mind focused all he saw was the hurt in Ruby's eyes but he just couldn't be the same around her, if she'd rejected him then fine, if she'd found someone else or decided not to date at all he could take it. Maybe distance himself for a week or two but nothing more than that he was sure. But what happened wasn't something he could handle.
"Here it is." Saphron said softly, cuddling Adrian closely.
"It might not be that bad." Terra said "Maybe Jaune had overreacted."
"Ter, we both know how Jaune is. He won't stop talking to someone due to an overreaction. He still hasn't called mom and dad yet if you recall." Terra winced as she knew that. Jaune's friends looked toward the two, not knowing Jaune wasn't talking to his parents. From what they know and from what they heard, Jaune values his family. But then again...even if you value your family doesn't mean you are on the same page as them.
He felt nervous as he waited at the breakfast table, Nora to his right with ren right beside her as she went on and on about her most recent dream. Gotta hand it to her his sister in all but blood really knew how to spin a tale. Why was he so nervous, it wasn't like things would be that awkward between him and craterface right? Not off the back, he'd hoped… but then there was Weiss. That would be slightly harder to deal with.
He wanted to apologize but he couldn't, not for telling her how he felt, he'd loved her once upon a time, probably a part of him always would. But he loved Ruby now, wanted to be with Ruby and even if it felt terrible making Weiss cry but she deserved a honest rejection. Speaking of said reaper he heard her then, her laughs alongside her team as she made her way into the room he readied to greet them the first to enter being a all to cheery yang.
"Aww, you two are adorable."
"Sis stop!"
"You dolt!" Blake entered next a slight smile on her face as between them Ruby and Weiss entered each looking practically flustered by their teammate's antics. However, his curious mood vanished when he noticed something as the two partners were holding hands. Nora seemed to note that two and asked for him.
"Hey Yangarang what we teasing Ruby for today?" Yang turned smiling.
"Oh, nothing much my baby sis is just growing up is all, brings a big old tear to my eye." Blake rolled her eyes.
"Right, and we're just going to casually ignore your reaction when you caught the two in the buff." Yang snorted ignoring her partner while Nora grinned madly teasing sure to ensue at any moment, but he was frozen as the brawler's words registered and he looked to the two partners. Standing there was Ruby and Weiss the former making a great effort not to look his way while the later froze upon catching his gaze.
She looked to him silver orbs wide in shock as if she'd only just realized he was there and no sooner did they turn looking away from him. He saw her grip tighten against Weiss and he swallowed the lump in his throat. Yang intervened then a smile on her face alongside a teasing grin.
"Well VB guess we know why Weisscream never accepted one of your dates huh? Guess she likes her dorks wearing a skirt." She smiled playfully not really meaning it he knew but it didn't matter as no sooner did he rise chair screeching back before he turned. He didn't look back only vaguely hearing Blake tell off the brawler, his heart ached as he walked through the hall, he wondered if the new couple got a laugh at seeing him run for it.
"WHAT THE FUCK WAS THAT!?" Nora yells loudly, standing up. Her reaction caused a few people to jump as Ruby and Weiss, shrinked away from the furious bomber.
"Nora, calm-" Ren began.
"Calm down?! How can I calm down?! Fearless Leader had confessed to her right to her face! And instead of accepting his feelings right then and there, she goes and get with Weiss while knowing Jaune was waiting for her answer! It's the second time it happened to him!"
"Second? What do you mean?" Saphron asks, not liking the implication.
"The thing Jaune in the screen said was on point, he loved Weiss. Still do apparently but instead of accepting one date with Jaune, she dismisses him. But when Neptune," Nora pointed out Neptune who didn't want to be dragged into this "Started flirting with her using the same nickname Jaune uses, she all of a sudden act all like it's the best nickname in the world!" Saphron eyes narrowed and the only reason she hasn't gone on her own rant after hearing that is because Adrian is in her arms. Something Terra isn't too keen on changing. Nora growled and made her way toward the weapon safe to try and get Magnhild. Unfortunately, to her at least, Ren grabbed her hand and activated his Semblance. This calmed Nora by dulling her emotions. He then pulls her into his lap. Even with her emotions dulled, Nora blushed a light pink and leaned into Ren. Ren turned toward the screen pointedly which caused the others to look toward the screen.
"Um...Blake...did you catch something?" Yang whispered to her partner.
"If it's what I'm wondering about, then yeah. It seems like I knew but how?" Blake whispered back.
"That too, but how did Ruby and Weiss get together? What caused sis to ignore Jaune's heartfelt confession and get it on with Weiss?" That was something Blake had no answer to.
The bullhead stopped then opening to show Beacon, he stepped out mind a mess as now he wanted to go in less than ever. He could see students making their way to the ballroom, girls in their best dresses and boys in tux. A bit of nostalgia hit him then at recalling his only dance, once remembering Pyrrha had been a bitter experience but now he could look fondly on those times. More than a few heads turned his way and plenty of kids crowded the champion wanting autographs and the like.
"Students, I will request you to leave our guest be." The disciplinarian tone was unmistakable, and he turned to it to see the headmistress Glynda eyes locked on him and forced his most nervous smile and waved her way.
"Hey misses G." She looked at him and to his shock smiled.
"Jaune, it's good to see you well, well then perhaps we should go, come I will escort you to Oscar and the others." He scratched his head nodding before making to follow the woman who'd instilled so much fear in him in his youth. He couldn't help but peek at the woman's figure blushing when he realized Goodwitch still looked every bit as stunning as he remembered. He'd heard aura levels affected aging and like him Goodwitch had rather large reserves. Did that mean he wouldn't have to worry about getting old anytime soon, it was certainly a pleasant thought.
Grumbles could be heard throughout the audience, wishing they had large aura reserves. Glynda smiles lightly, happy she don't have to worry about looking older for a good long while. Though it's nothing new to her, being viewed by Arc like that did something to her. Maybe it's because she know he has a good heart and while would be captivated by her beauty, wouldn't let it be his sole purpose in attempting in courting her.
"Well then here we are." With a flip of the wrist the doors were flung open and Glynda stepped in him not to far behind her. He looked around finding a few familiar faces from his Beacon days, from team CFVY to CRDL and even others who'd attended the Vytal Festival… Still where were his frien-
"Jaune-Jaune!" Aura manifested as he rose his guard for the incoming strike that was Nora Valkyrie however to his shock it never came and when he turned he immediately knew why as a rounded belly ginger smiled his way arms out and smiling a 1,000 gigawatt smile.
"Nora! You're, your!"
"Pregnant? Yes." A hand fell on his shoulder and when he turned he met deep magenta and a small genuine smile from his brother in all but blood. He didn't even wait before embracing his former teammate who happily returned the gesture.
The sight of seeing Nora pregnant and being the father shocked Ren. So much he lost focus on his Semblance. Luckily, with her emotions on full, was also shocked and no long wanting to break legs who happens to be their friends.
"Hey no fair Renny!" All to quickly the bubbly bomber glomped on hugging them both, he smiled having been a good minute since last they met.
"I missed you so much Jaune-Jaune!"
"Heh, missed you to Nora, Ren." The two smiled before Nora adopted a pout as she glared his way.
"We wouldn't have to miss our fearless leader if he'd just take Glynda's offer already." Jaune chuckled before shaking his head.
"You guys know I can't do that, I already told you my dad wants to make me the Patriarch." Nora crossed her arms.
"Then just be the bossman of your family and move to Vale, see, there easy fix." He smiled but shook his head regardless it was nice chatting with his friends.
"Yeah, being the head honcho gives you all the power to do that!" Nora exclaims.
"Hey there Vomitboy, Nora Ren!" Jaune turned to find Yang walking there way sporting a lowcut back dress that frankly he could swear half the men in the room were glued to. The other half were on Blake right beside her in a backless purple dress with a nice cut up to her mid-thigh. Yang whistled as she mocked checked out the two men of their little circle.
"Gotta say Nora, Ren here cuts a nice figure in the green tux, especially with his hair out like that." Nora grinned happily but her getting between her man and the brawler certainly didn't go unnoticed, he'd blame it on hormones, Oum knows what pregnancy did to regular women he dreaded a hormonal Nora. Yang then looked his way and smiled in that way Saphron would when she'd discovered some particularly good dirt on him. With a strut she stepped up to him poking his chest and smiling.
"Damn Jaune, you trying to pull a hulk and tear that thing up when you flex, not that I'd complain about the show." He snorted at her.
"Down girl your taken last time I checked." Yang grinned.
"Doesn't mean mama can't look got the wives permission and everything isn't that right Kitkat?" Said faunus sighed before looking at Jaune and smiling.
"One, probably should've noticed earlier but didn't expect me and Blake in a relationship. Two, that me isn't wrong." Yang said. Taiyang and Ghira growled, being overprotective fathers as they are.
"Yang perhaps don't bring up our openness to a third in our marriage. It is nice to see you here Jaune, I'd half expected you'd change your mind." Jaunes shrugged.
"Arc's word." Yang grinned.
"You still going on bout that VB, well, I guess that is one of your better points." He smiled wryly.
"Would another be how I can kick your butt Xiao-Long?" she smirked at the challenge as she faced him fire in her eyes just how he liked his fellow blonde.
"Oh ho ho, cocky aren't we Vomitboy? Just cause you beat me Four ti-"
"Five."
"'Tch' four time in a row doesn't mean you'll win everytime." He smiled as he walked up chest to chest with his rival.
"Anytime, anyplace Yang,"
"You sure about that Vomitman, never know when this dragon might take you up on that offer." Nora leaned in near Blake.
"Um, are they about to fight or make out?" Blake sighed.
"Sometimes I wonder." Ren added in his own two cents.
"With the way Lady Killer is looking, I would." Yang said, smiling. "Maybe I should do the same to our Jaune." Pyrrha looked toward Yang worried as she knew Yang is more upfront about what she wants. Ruby, who normally would scold Yang in an adorable way thus not taking seriously, was quiet as she wasn't fully paying attention to them.
"Would you be opposed to Jaune being the one in you and Yang's arrangement." Blake shrugged.
"Made the offer before after Jaune's first time winning." Nora gawked.
"I didn't know that! Jaune-Jaune how could you hide this from me!" Jaunes flinched at Nora's cries raising his hands.
"Whoa, chill Nora kinda just slipped my mind is all." Yang chuckled.
"Oh, that hurts VB was that all that night was to you, just some kinda of footnote in your year." Jaune rolled his eyes.
"Yang the four of us were wasted, I barely remember how I got to the room let alone woke up spooning Sun." Yang laughed at the memories of the fun night all too clear to the brawler who'd shifted the two blonde men together in their sleep. Blake blushed remembering the night herself in no small detail. Nora however was even more angry at the clear story conveniently left out from any previous talks!
"Jaune-Jaune you have some serious explaining to do!" Jaunes smiled mischievously.
"Sorry Nora but my lips are sealed." Said ginger huffed before looking to Yang and Blake.
"Then you two are telling me or you can kiss your godmother hood bye-bye Yangarang."
"What! I'm the godmother awesome! Wait shit! Fine I'll spill okay let's grab some dinner later and we can talk all about it, heck we'll make a double date out of it right Blakey?"
"Aww, thanks Nora." Yang said, grinning toward the bomber.
"Don't mention it." Nora said, returning the grin.
"… Seafood, if you want my cooperation." Yang rolled her eyes.
"Geez really fighting the stereotype aren't we." The four broke into laughter none noticing the small commotion being made on the other side of the room as two figures stepped in, one the most renowned huntress in Remnant and the other the richest.
Both girls stepped into the dance room stealing the eyes of just about everyone in their line of sight, while Blake and Yang held figures the two could only wish for. Weiss held elegance to her none could deny, a classic beauty with a confidence that drew attention as much if not more than Yang bombastic personality. While the Reaper herself held a lovely charm to her smile and disposition, a kindness that soothed those around her and wore her heart on her sleeve making anyone who saw her feel a pang in their chest.
Both girls smiled as they walked in arm and arm, smiles on their faces however their eyes were on the prowl, searching desperately for him. Hoping he'd shown, that he was here that each girl's gathered resolve and guilt weren't at waste. It was then they heard it the sound of their sisters laugh and turning they saw Yang, Blake and Nora each smiling alongside Ren and…
Weiss stilled at seeing him, his stature so much more than last she saw him. He'd grown his hair back to its former mop of gold instead of that look he'd adopted in Atlas and modest coating of golden stubble over his face. She swallowed at the sight of his body even through his suit she could spot his definition, his strength and it brought her near shudders. She swallowed, could she really do this, it was not a question of whether she wanted to, sadly the answer to that was evident at the wetness between her thighs. But whether she could truly approach him again, attempt to betray her love here and now.
She looked over to Ruby then her sporting a fetching red number low-cut V-neck dress. Her heels made her cute butt stand out, it was rather rare to see her in heels, perhaps she wanted to impress her, hoping to share relations that night. It only served to make the guilt burn that much deeper.
Ruby looked at him breath caught in her throat as she saw him.
Jaune…
Her best friend, her oldest friend and the person she'd traveled beside to Mistral, fought the forces of Grimm, the worst of humanity and even Salem beside. He looked so different, she knew his appearance having never missed an interview or match he'd held but seeing over a screen and in person were two different things entirely. Even now she resisted just breaking into petals and rushing into him, hugging him and crying out each and every silent apology that sprouted from every kiss with Weiss, every I love you she spoke from each day she got to be happy.
"Please do..." Ruby whispers softly that not even the Faunus in the room heard her.
But that wasn't fair to Weiss, her wife and love, the woman she'd given her vows to. Then again what about today was fair, with what she intended, with what she'd do. She'd seen Weiss underwear when she'd crossed her legs on the bullhead. The same pair from their wedding night, Weiss still wanted her, desired her and she was about to cheat on her.
Guilt clawed at her heart but, but…
'I love you Ruby…'
But she'd already made her choice, planned for this night, to make Weiss talk to the others while she drew Jaune away to. Thoughts of flesh pressed, or lips locked flooded her mind and her tips hardened through her dress having no pads to buffer between them.
It was unintentional but they're hands met and the contact made both freeze. Guilt swirled and for a moment, a single moment they could've pulled back, repressed the desire that'd built up over the last six years… But then they heard it, his laugh, and when they looked at him, seeing his smile, the smile neither had seen since that night the decision had been final. both let go of one another's hands discreetly removing the band signifying their love, their vows and virtue.
They stepped forward unaware that like always they did so together.
Draco held up the Verseball and shot a red beam into the screen, returning the universe. After setting it aside, he took a deep breath and leaned back. He then decided to asks:
"How was that?" No one jumped up to answer right away. The villains could care less, three of them silently plotting with one another. Ilia cleared her throat as she spoke up.
"My hunch was right. She did played with his feelings after all." Ruby and Weiss flinched at that, but couldn't deny it. They did play with Jaune's feelings, hurt him in such a horrible way. Why did they do it? Did they do it out of spite?
"Ruby, Weiss, you two okay?" Yang asks, worried. The two had remained quiet after getting the clearer picture of what had transpired between them and Jaune. And to be honest, she probably would've reacted the same way as Jaune if she was in his position.
"Y-Yeah...I'm...I'll be fine." Ruby answers, sadness in her voice.
"Likewise." Weiss agrees.
"I'm sure if the you in that universe talk with Jaune, clear the air, it may help mend your bond." Pyrrha said, comfortingly. Ruby and Weiss looks to Pyrrha, the girl who like Ruby has deep feelings for Jaune. If she is saying it, then they have to believe it too.
"Thanks Pyrrha." Ruby said, smiling softly.
"Anytime Ruby."
"And besides, there is more to that universe." Naruto said.
"Really?" Kali asks.
"Yeah," Natsu answers "This was only half of what we seen. We will play it when the other half is formed." Ruby and Weiss nods, wanting to see if their others will make things right with their blonde knight. Draco smiles as he picked up the next Verseball. Looking at it for a moment, he began laughing.
"What is with the laughter?" Mercury asks.
"Oh boy, this will be fun." Draco said, grinning. Naruto, Natsu, and Happy looked at the Verseball and all gained similar grins.
"What is this universe going to be?" Emerald asks. Draco decided to answer with a question.
"What do you think of Devils and Dragons?"
End
Draco711: And this completes the next universe. I have to thank DAM1994 for letting me use chapter 59: Betrayal: A Knight's White Rose of his Jaune's Shots, Short-Stories and Parodies. If you haven't read them, go check them out. I realized there may be a contradiction in this chapter and hope I worked it well into the story. I wonder who will catch it if there is one. The next chapter is chosen and the one after will be the first intermission. As always, favorite and follow the story if you enjoy it and review to let me know your thoughts and potential future universes. Till we meet again. And so we go~