AH! I take too long to write this chapter and there's like an influx of people joining us for the ride on this fic, LOVE YOU ALL.
I took so long to upload this one because with all the COVID-19 drama, handling the awkwardness of online classes, and clearing up the midterms that changed into online quizzes, I got a little side-tracked.
On a side note, I got some interesting questions from The Silver-Eyed Knight in my inbox but one question really stood out to me that I figured I should tell everyone, and that's the power ranking of my OCs.
If I had to pin it in our current situation, out ruling Salem as the most powerful:
Team ASHNRWBY, minus Nova, are sitting around the same power level as team BLADE, minus Adam, this means that they are all roughly on Pyrrha's level of skill, with the only difference being training and experience. Between them and Randolf who sits just above Qrow in terms of power level, its a pretty sizeable gap, then there's Mortus Noir who will show off his skills in this volume, but he also has some decent fighting power, nestling himself just under Ozpin in terms of power.
Above Randolf would be Adam, and I would say he and Nova are on par, but... well you'll see. Adam is greatly stronger than Randolf, Nova is roughly one stage weaker than Adam when he fought the first time. Onyx, after ingesting that serum, is sitting above everyone but still lower than Salem herself.
Luna could be a lot more powerful but she has yet to fully push the bounds of her power, so I'd rank her as just above the normal members of ASHNRWBY but that could very well change as she evolves. The interesting thing about these power changes is that it dramatically changes between the end of volume 3, and volume 5-6.
To TheRealRohan, you have no idea how happy it makes me feel to see someone actually wanting to draw my OC's. I was planning on doing it myself once the semester was over and I actually had time, but I'd definitely love to see your art. I actually have some visual references for Nova's hair, his clothing I'd have to write out in detail but Asura is a different story. Asura is extremely complex, I literally have a schematic in my head even how the inner mechanisms are supposed to work because, theoretically this sword scythe could be made in real life if we tried, albeit an imperfect form. For that one, you'd have to give me some time to do a rough sketch myself, but if you want details you can message me on twitter and I'll send you the visual references I have.
Chapter 34: Tough Decisions and First Dates
The duos rounds were over now, giving way to a break period before the singles matches. This gave most attendees time to explore the various other activities the Vytal Festival had to offer.
For the combatants, however, this was their opportunity to polish their skills and plan ahead for the final round. Most teams had already decided who would be their representative for that aspect of the tournament. For Team RWBY it was Yang, for JNPR it came as no surprise that Pyrrha was their selection. ASHN went unanimously for Nova, even though the dragon leader himself would have preferred Luna to be their representative. Cinder's team had chosen Mercury as far as Nova had learned and, coming in as a serious wild card in the tournament, was none other than Atlas' own Android girl, Penny Polendina.
Nova had no clue as to who her team members were, he'd never seen any of their matches and as far as he was concerned, it didn't matter. Penny was a sweet girl, if a little strange, but he certainly was glad to see her making it through the tournament. Any friend of Ruby was a friend of his…. Except for Emerald and her team… they were the exception.
As much as the dragon leader wished to be either cooped up in his room working with Hex on the data they've analyzed throughout the matches, trying to gauge the angle for the inevitable chaos, he wasn't.
Where was he? Happily, snuggling up to his adorable girlfriend and taking a breather? Training hard in the simulation room to hone his skills? He was doing none of these things.
He was, unfortunately, making his way to the dorm apartment of one Glynda Goodwitch.
Why?
A question only his mother could answer.
Knocking on the blonde teacher's door, he found no answer., the sound of muffled talking alluded to him that the room was occupied. Sighing to himself, he tried the doorknob, it was indeed unlocked. Being the dragon of little time, he let himself in.
"Glynda, I've told you a thousand times, if the recipe calls for three tablespoons of sugar, we use exactly three tablespoons…" The annoyed voice of Elain sounded as the dragon leader entered into the room, marveling at the decor.
The inside of Goodwitch's apartment was… fitting, to say the least. Her furniture were black, her rugs and décor were black but her wallpaper was a deep purple. Nova always pegged the lady as a professional aesthetic, not the world's biggest closet goth.
He made his way through the living room and into the kitchen where he found Elain and Goodwitch happily chatting away and apparently cooking. Which was odd considering his mother was not the cooking type… it was usually his dad who prepared household meals.
"Ellie, cooking isn't some lab experiment where your ingredients need to be measured precisely. It's about estimation and gut instinct. If you think it needs more of something then you add that something. You can't just base everything on paper printed words." The teacher chastised.
"And I believe instructions were meant to be followed. They are guidelines for a reason!" Elain argued back though the smile on her face said anything but angry.
"AHEM!" Nova let out a loud sound alerting the two older women to his presence.
Elain and Goodwitch both jumped, quite startled.
"OH! Mister Flareheart… I see you've arrived… how did you get in?" Glynda looked curiously. Nova took note of her casual appearance, an oversized white shirt, and shorts. Her hair was undone and her makeup wasn't there… not that she needed it.
"Sorry, Glynda. When I found your door unlocked I took the liberty of letting myself in since I stood at the door for a while and no one answered despite my knocking." Nova said folding his arms, looking rather annoyed.
The blonde woman blushed, "My apologies… your mother kept me in a heated argument."
Nova looked unimpressed, "Mhm… so… why did you call me here exactly?" he said looking to his mother.
Elain was wearing a blue shirt and shorts accompanied by her lab coat. Nova could swear she even went to bed with that thing on.
"Yes Nova, I've been meaning to speak to you about… what happened during your match yesterday." The moment she brought it up Nova flinched. He'd known this was coming, it just didn't mean he was ready for it.
"NOVA ALEXANDRITE FLAREHEART WHAT IN THE NAME OF REMNANT WERE YOU THINKING?!" all traces of her previous joy were gone, only the face of concern and worry.
Nova flinched at her tone, "I was thinking that it was about high time we made our move. Onyx is only getting stronger by the day and we still don't know where dad is. We need to stop operating in the shadows and take the fight to them!" he tried to explain himself though he saw little reason to.
Glynda quietly stepped back to avoid being caught in this awkward conversation, she could feel the inevitable emotional argument before it even properly spawned.
"I want your father back as much as you do! I just think that outwardly announcing our existence was a rash decision!" She fumed.
Nova felt a twinge of guilt in his heart, he knew she missed Flint. He did too, but that doesn't change the fact that something needed to be done.
"Rash or not, our enemies were out there from the start. They knew what we were doing, where we were hiding. It doesn't matter if we stayed in the shadows. At the end of the day, we need allies. We need people to know that what the White Fang is doing is wrong. Quell their supporters with words and actions, not espionage and bloodshed." Nova tried reasoning.
Elain was silent for a moment, "I understand that but I just wished you would've consulted me first! We could've found a better way! You can't just go around making decisions on your own!" Her tone was furious, the fact that she was fighting him down when his decision was clearly right, made his blood boil.
Nova felt his anger rising, "Consult you? I've been living my life without your help for almost ten years! It may not have been your fault, but you weren't there! I make my own decisions." The words were bitter on his tongue and he instantly regretted it the moment he said them.
Elain's face morphed from anger to pure depression, the lines on her face sinking and it broke Nova's heart, "I… I get that… you've been fighting the battle alone for years. You've had to make some tough choices, without a mother to guide you. So please, I'm here now… let me be that mother now!" She choked out, and Nova could see the tears forming in her eyes.
The dragon's anger had all but disappeared. He reached out and held his mother, "Mom… I'm sorry it's just… I'll consult you from now on before I do something like that…"
Glynda watched the two hug it out. She'd honestly figured it was high time they dissolved this awkward barrier between them. They'd acted like they were more friends than an actual parent and child and she was glad they'd finally bridged the gap.
*sniff sniff* "Is something burning?" Nova asked, both his and Elain's noses twitching.
"OH SHIT THE CAKE!" Glynda cried as she desperately tried to salvage the burning pastry.
. . .
"So, you mind telling me what's your plan?" Elain said placing her hands on her hips as she waltzed into the living room to find Nova reclined on the couch with his feet up.
"You assume I have a plan," Nova said with his eyes closed, smirking.
Elain huffed, "Really… you are my son so, you'd never make decisions without a plan. Unless you took after your father… in which case Oum save us all…"
Nova snorted and laughed, "Alright you got me. I have a plan."
"Which is?"
"Once this tournament is over. I plan to head back to Menagerie and gather some supporters, rally the cause. From there, Ozpin and I can start to make our move on Onyx himself."
"And what makes you so sure this will work? What about Menagerie? Isn't the main White Fang Headquarters there?" Elain looked concerned.
"Mom, you've been captured by them for so long and you don't even know?" He raised his eyebrow and she just looked confused. He sighed, "This may not work to gain supporters, but the White Fang HQ is not in Menagerie, contrary to popular belief. That's the branch run by Sienna Khan to be sure. The Faunus 'High Leader'. "
"What's the difference? Onyx is also just a High leader right?"
"No. High Leader and High Commander are two different things. See, the world doesn't know Onyx exists, that much I've figured out myself. They all think Sienna Khan is the White Fang leader and their base is in Menagerie." Nova was now in a sitting position. "In reality, Onyx is the true leader and their base is in Vacuo."
Elain was startled, "On what basis did you figure Vacuo?"
"Bell and Edan's team. It was a dead giveaway. You can't fake their team's kingdom."
Again Elain was confused, "What says you can't? Didn't those ex-friends of yours fake their information?"
"That's the fun part about it. They faked their info, but they didn't fake their kingdom. Why?" Nova asked the rhetorical question. Both Elain and Glynda who'd come in from the kitchen gave him baffled looks.
"The answer is simple. They couldn't. Vytal tournament Team registration monitors the direction and flight pattern of your ships entering and leaving the stadium. Sort of like a giant floating airport. Unless Onyx's team made a detour route to Vacuo before coming here… Then they're from Vacuo."
"Where the hell Is all this coming from, are you a detective? What if they really did take the detour?" Elain's ears were perked showing she was interested in where this was going.
"I'm not done yet. We can out rule the detour because firstly, they can't come from Atlas or Mantle, you can't operate a large scale business there, even if it is underground without Ironwood knowing about it. They sure as hell won't be coming from Vale either. If they came from Vale then that means Ozpin did an awful job and given our experience so far, I'd say that's far from the truth. They can't come from Mistral, and if they did then they actually would have to make the world's longest detour to Vacuo to prove the flight patterns to the Tournament registrations. That'd take them several weeks."
"But there have been several weeks between the Breach and the tournament…" Glynda pointed out.
"See I thought about that… but something Bell said in our fight that really stuck with me. She muttered something under her breath, whether it was unconsciously or not. She said they made her go through enhancements. Enhancements mean technology implemented into the body. That requires adjustment and training."
"And on top of the time, it takes for the body to have the implants… so the essentially the time frames won't add up." Elain said figuring it out.
"Exactly. Onyx is hold up in Vacuo, and we're coming for him."
Elain breathed in deeply. "That's… honestly impressive… and here I thought Luna was the only one with brains…"
"Nice vote of confidence mom."
"Have you told the others about this yet? Does Ozpin know?" Glynda asked.
Nova shot her a glare, "Ozpin will know by the end of the day… the others, however, already are aware."
Glynda was impressed. For a student to make such deductions based on obscure information and still provide concrete evidence was incredible. His planning skills were impeccable and his plan held little flaws. No wonder his team and others respected him so much they'd blindly follow him… he was a born King.
Nova's scroll beeped. It was a message from Ozpin. "Speak of the devil… looks like I got a text from Oz…"
Glynda's scroll also beeped, "Same here… Ozpin wants to see us, and Ironwood in his office… concerning… Miss Nikos."
Nova blinked, "Well… I didn't get that part of the message.." he muttered to himself, waving goodbye and stepping out the door to allow Goodwitch to get ready.
Nova made his way to Ozpin's office elevator, unlike Glynda, he was fine walking around in his casual wear, even if it meant meeting General Ironwood while wearing a loose long-sleeved shirt and tracks.
The longer he walked the more his mind grew restless. His usually occupied thoughts were now drifting to what he'd said to his mother this morning. The feelings of guilt resurfacing, he'd never snapped like that to anyone he cared about and honestly, he was a little scared. His whole life he'd only ever get angry during fights, or against people like Cardin Winchester… but they deserved it. It felt as though, now that the chains holding him down had been shed, that his emotional state of mind was also on free roam. He could be as expressive as he wanted, say what he wanted, and no one would care.
While on the surface that seemed like a good thing, in reality, it wasn't. It also meant his brain was losing its subconscious control on his… more volatile emotions.
Being the Aspect of Fire came with certain personality traits, primarily a short fuse. If his anger wasn't in check, he'd probably explode his enemies with raw fury. Sure, he'd never bring himself to harm his friends or family, but the mere thought that his emotion might overwhelm him one day scared him.
There were only ever two people in his life capable of reigning him in like that. Two people he held above even his own well being, they were his little sister Luna and the love of his life, Ruby. The red leader was his emotional anchor, she yanked him out of that depressive and reclusive state and made him feel like more than just a leader or a protector. She made him feel like an actual person again.
Ruby! That's it! I need to do something for her, maybe get her a gift, that's what good boyfriends do right? Nova's mind had latched onto her image like a clamp, refusing to let go. Thus, instead of making his way directly to Ozpin's office like he'd been instructed, he made a b-line for the RWBY dorm.
"Hello? Anyone home?" He asked entering slowly and looking around. Ruby and Yang were nowhere to be seen, only Weiss and Blake.
"Nova! Looking for Ruby, Luna or both?" Weiss asked perking her head up from her desk.
The dragon rubbed his head sheepishly, "Ruby actually, have you seen her around?"
"She and Yang are sparring in the training room," Blake answered from the top bunk, not bothering to look up from her book.
"And Luna left to go meet Elain in the lab a few minutes ago." Weiss finished.
"Right... well, I got a question for you guys now that I think about it." Nova looked embarrassed.
"For us? Well, this is new… what do you need?" Weiss asked turning around in her chair and Blake placed her book down.
"Ugh… how do I phrase this… I want to do something special for Ruby. She's the sweetest girl in the entire world and I feel like I need to repay her for putting up with my shit… any ideas?" He asked embarrassed.
Weiss blinked slowly, "Nova, you do realize that just being with her is the greatest gift you could give her, right?"
Nova blinked in surprise, "Wow, Weiss I never took you for the sentimental type. I figure you'd have said something like expensive jewelry or…"
"That being said I think you should give her something like the necklace you gave Luna." She finished.
"There's the ice princess I know. I've already out ruled that. It'd take several months to make one for her, considering the material composition I want to use." He opted.
"So you were already planning it huh," Weiss shot him a knowing smirk.
Nova shrugged, "What can I say, nothing is too good for her."
"Well if gifts are out of the idea… why not take her on a date?" Blake input.
Nova almost faceplanted, "OF COURSE! I completely forgot about dates!"
Weiss deadpanned, "I'm afraid to ask but, you two have gone on a date before... right?"
"Maybe?… well, we did hang out a few times, but that was before we were together… and we did go as friends… the dance probably doesn't count…"
"You are impossible. You will take Ruby on a date tomorrow and it will the best damn thing ever you hear me? Only the fanciest restaurant. No movies because that's cliché. If I was Ruby I'd want to be taken out and treated like a queen all day." Weiss jabbed her finger in his direction.
Nova rolled his eyes, "Fine fine, I got some connections in Vale. Fancy restaurant reservations won't be a problem. I think I can-" he was cut off when he scroll beeped again. "Shit that's Ozpin, gotta go. Thanks for the help girls!"
"Is it weird that he calls us girls collectively rather than guys?" Blake asked raising her eyebrow.
"Well… he is half-girl himself so…" Weiss answered with a shrug.
Nova came up the elevator to find Glynda and Ironwood already there, Qrow and Randolf as well. Pyrrha sat at Ozpin's desk looking somewhat mortified.
"Sorry I'm late, I got caught up on the way here. What's the situation? Why's Pyrrha here? No offence Pyrrha." Nova said earning glares from Glynda and Ironwood.
The red-haired champion was looking anything but her usual happy self, she looked scared. "What's going on exactly? Who are you people really?" Pyrrha asked looking around slightly panicked.
Nova felt his sweat drop, "Am I missing something here?"
Glynda placed her hand on Pyrrha's shoulder, ignoring the dragon. "We're the same teachers, headmasters, and students you've known since you arrived here at Beacon."
"We just have a little part-time job," Qrow answered in continuation.
"We are the protectors of this world," Ironwood said.
"And we need your help." Ozpin finished.
"Alright, can someone finally fill me in on what's happening here?" Nova looked rather peeved.
"Miss Nikos here is next in like to receive the Fall Maiden's power. As the Aspect of Fire, you are here because your powers are linked by the natural laws of the world, and it is your duty to see this through." Randolf explained.
"Wait, backtrack a sec, Pyrrha is going to be the next Fall Maiden?" Nova asked incredulously.
"Only if she so chooses." Ozpin said, "Come we'll explain further on the way."
They led the two students down a rather cramped elevator, a wonder how they managed to fit this many people in here without it collapsing. Nova had to give props to whoever designed this infrastructure.
"So… this is the longest elevator ride I've ever taken… anyone else?" Nova asked breaking the awkward silence.
"Where are we going?" Pyrrha nervously asked.
"The vault. Under the school." Ozpin curtly responded.
"WE HAVE A VAULT?!" Nova said incredulously. No one even looked in his direction.
Once the doors opened the party entered into a massive underground room. Polished marble floors, enormously tall halls, all bathed in a pale green glow.
"I'm sure you must have questions," Glynda said addressing Pyrrha as they walked forward.
The red-haired girl chuckled nervously, "Maybe one or two…"
"One or two? I have like fifty… oh right, sarcasm, my bad." Nova briskly walked forward as he'd been lagging behind from marveling at the grandeur of the place. For a vault under the school, it looked more like a grand tomb.
"You said I was next in line to receive the Maiden's power. What do you mean by that?" Pyrrha asked now gaining some confidence.
"The maidens have existed for thousands of years. And, like the seasons, they change. No two summers are alike. When a Maiden dies, their powers leave and seek out a new host, to ensure the seasons remain and no one person has the power forever." Glynda explained.
"How does the power choose exactly?" Pyrrha continued.
"Through a series of convoluted rules," Qrow answered back gruffly.
"Qrow!"
"He's right. Unlike the power of the Aspect, the Maidens are based on Magic. If the host of magic dies, then the powers move on. If an Aspect dies then the powers simply manifest themselves when the world needs it. No one is quite clear on how or when they manifest, but they always do." Randolf now input.
"And how exactly does an Aspect tie in with the Maiden's powers? You said we were linked… how?" Nova asked.
"Finally asking a good question…" Qrow said with a smile.
"Can it old man! Now, Answer my question." he looked to the wolf Faunus.
"Aspects of Remnant are people who represent the natural forces of the world. If the Maidens keep the seasons alive, then Aspects keep the natural world alive. They keep the waters flowing, the trees growing, the wind blowing and the fires burning. The world of Remnant only manifests your type when it needs to retain balance among the elements, otherwise, generations can sometimes pass without an Aspect manifesting." Randolf continued. Nova wondered how his master was such an expert on this when almost no one else knew.
"I believe you two are linked because if you're here to hold the balance over the element of Fire… and the Fall Maiden also wields the power of fire, then there's a reason you found yourself here at Beacon." This time it was Ozpin who spoke.
"Wait, Aspect of Remnant? What're you talking about?" Pyrrha asked.
"Aspect of Remnant. A Faunus born from the royal families of the original Faunus tribe. Like the Maidens, they also possess supernatural powers, the ability to control an aspect of nature itself. For our local furnace over here, it's control over Flame." Qrow responded. This time Ironwood quirked his brow. It seemed he was not overly informed on this subject and was gaining new information as they spoke. Nova didn't like that… not one bit.
"Fire? Is that how you controlled those flames back at the arena?" Pyrrha asked turning to Nova.
"Guilty as charged. The public thinks it's my semblance. We both know it's not. And before you ask, yes I was holding back that time we fought, though I did use some of the power in my attacks, you just didn't notice."
"And here I thought we were evenly matched." Pyrrha smiled for the first time since they were down here. That was a nice improvement.
"So, why choose now to do this? Why not waif for Pyrrha to graduate?" Nova asked though he knew why he just wanted to see what they would say.
"Honestly? We would've preferred that… but we've run out of time." Qrow answered.
"Is it for the same reason as I've guessed?" Nova asked leaving the reason unspoken, in case they wanted to keep Pyrrha from panicking.
"A little bit of that, and some more. You'll understand once we get to where we're going." Ozpin answered.
"For now all you need to know is that one of the Maidens was attacked, as you've guessed it was the Fall Maiden. And, for the first time in history, some of her power was stolen."
"Part of it? What? How?" Nova's question went unanswered as they arrived at a large mechanical casket. It resembled a cryo-chamber except, the person inside wasn't on ice.
"Is that?" Pyrrha looked scared.
Ozpin sighed, "Yes, the current Fall Maiden. Amber."
"She's still alive…"
"For now… we're using state of the art Atlas technology to keep her stable. It's just… there's a lot about this situation that's… unorthodox." Ironwood said. "We won't know what happens if she passes."
"Won't it transfer to the next host?" Pyrrha asked.
"Look who's been listening!" Qrow said sounding rather irritable. "She is smart…" he whispered to Ozpin.
"Damn old man, what crawled up your ass?" Nova asked folding his arms. "Cut her some slack. This is a lot of information for her to take in. You basically told her, that he world as she knows it is a lie. It's amazing she's still mentally stable."
"I don't got time to be nice human torch, the clock is ticking." Qrow looked annoyed and Nova felt a vein in his head throb. He had to inhale a few times to resist the urge to punch his beloved uncle in the face twenty-seven times.
"With her current state, it's not uncommon for her last thoughts to be of her attacker. The powers could very well go to her. On top of that, we've never seen a power split like this before, her powers could very well seek out its other half." Ironwood explained calmly.
Pyrrha walked up to the half-dead Maiden. "If what you're saying is true then… why keep this a secret? Why hide it from the public?"
"Well… this used to be common knowledge." Glynda said.
"What?" Pyrrha was confused.
"How do you think all these fairy tales started? Legends have to come from somewhere. Back in the day, there were those who would hunt Maidens for their power in hopes of inheriting their powers. As you can imagine the ones who succeeded weren't the type of people you'd want with unimaginable power." Qrow said uncorking his flask and taking a swig.
"Thus, our brotherhood was formed to bury the Maidens as fairy tales, so the world forgot they existed and stopped hunting them." Ironwood explained.
"Ahem!" Glynda felt her brow twitch.
"Right, I meant this gender-neutral collective was formed to keep them safe..." he amended. Nova and Qrow both snickered at his expense.
Nova glanced at Pyrrha, the red-head was looking rather shaken up, "Might want to give her, or me, some of whatever is in that flask… this is getting too heavy for my liking."
Qrow raised his brow and offered the flask to Nova. The dragon reached out only for Glynda's riding crop to slap him across his hand, causing him to recoil and rub the red sore spot.
"No underage drinking on school compounds." She berated.
Nova caught Qrow's eye and shot him a look that said 'on school grounds she said nothing about off-campus'. Which made them both chuckle.
"I'll do it," Pyrrha said making everyone turn to her now serious. "That's what you want right? For me to accept this job?"
Ozpin cleared his throat, "Well.. the thing is… you won't be able to inherit her powers by normal means…"
"What's that mean?" Nova asked.
"We at Atlas have been researching the boundaries of aura for years now. We believe we've found a way to capture it." Ironwood said as if he were giving a presentation.
"Capture it… and cram it into something else…" Qrow explained. "Or in your case…"
"They'd be taking her aura, storing and binding her life to yours. When she passes, her powers which are bound to her soul, will seek out it's original host, being her aura." Randolf explained.
"But that's…" Pyrrha looked startled.
"Classified." Came Ironwood.
"Wrong!" Both Pyrrha and Nova said angrily turning to him. "James that's unethical and morally perverse!" Nova said.
The general was taken aback, he was about to tell the boy off for speaking in that tone to an officer but he was interrupted by Glynda.
"I agree with you both, but desperate times call for desperate measures." She said though her facial expression said she'd rather not resort to this at all.
"You have an important decision to make Miss Nikos, just know that before the Vytal Festival is over… we will need your answer…" there was a collective silence following his words.
"Okay, this was a fun and heart-warming experience, "Nova said sarcastically, "But can someone explain why I was needed here?"
"Yes well… we believe that should Miss Nikos choose to accept it, we will need your communication with the element to ease the process in. As the saying goes, fire guides fire…" Ozpin explained.
"I… I'll think about it…" Pyrrha said nervously.
Once Nova and Pyrrha were clear of the administration, he spoke. "Pyrrha, are you alright? I know this is a lot to take in but… well… if it makes you feel any better. I've been stuck on this rope since I was born, I'll help you and guide you as best as I can. It's not an easy life, the powers are cool sure, but it's a heavy burden to bear. Just know that if you do decide to take this up, I'd be with you as your friend."
The red-head smiled nervously, "I… I appreciate it, Nova… I just… need some time."
Nova figured since he'd spent very little time with Ozpin, Ruby should still be in the training room. First order of business was acquire the date.
As he approached the room he could hear the sounds of clashing steel and one young female voice sounding off as she sliced through the air, attacking simulated Grim. Ruby stood clad in black and red gym top with shorts, sweating profusely after a round of attacks. Surprisingly enough, Yang wasn't there.
Nova watched her form gracefully sail through the air and cleave through a Beowolf like it was nothing. She looked so much different from her usual get-up. It was the first time he could see her exposed mid-riff… and boy was he enjoying the view. One would not expect that Ruby Rose would be sporting the nicest set of abs anyone had ever seen. Sure they weren't as profound as his or Yang's, but it was impressive nonetheless.
"Nice form out there Red!" Nova called startling her out of her concentration and causing her to fall flat on her butt.
"Owie…" She mumbled rubbing her sore behind.
Nova rushed over and helped her stand up, "Sorry love, didn't mean to break your concentration." The moment Ruby recognized who her distractor was, her face lit up like a thousand suns.
"NOVA! I haven't seen you all day…" She tackled him in a tight hug, before releasing just as quickly, "Ah sorry I'm sweaty."
Nova chuckled and brushed a thumb across her cheek, "Well I am not opposed to unlimited cuddles once you take a shower, you do kinda stink…" he teased.
She turned red and moved to bite his hand but he was too quick, "Rude! You never tell a girl she smells bad, even if it is true." She pouted adorably.
The dragon just leaned down in response and quickly pecked her on the lips, "I was kidding. Even if you're sweaty you still smell like Roses. I think it has to do with your semblance honestly."
"I've never heard of a semblance making someone smell good. Are you sure you aren't just lying to sweeten me up?"
"And why would I do that? You're already too sweet for me to handle." He pinched her cheek.
"Ugh, you're impossible. So… did you need something?" She asked now walking off and getting a towel that was on one of the benches to dry her face.
"Do I need a reason to come see my girlfriend?" He asked, placing a hand on his heart with mock hurt. She just raised an eyebrow and shot him a look that said 'Really? You know what I mean'
"Alright fine, you got me. I came looking for you because I had to ask you something… where's Yang by the way?" He asked looking around.
"Was that your question? She already went back to the dorm, I just hung back for some extra rounds… can't be getting rusty while she's the one fighting in the tournament."
"No that wasn't my question. My real question is… Ruby Rose, will you go on a date with me tomorrow evening?" He asked taking her hand in his.
She blushed, "Ah wah-… you don't even need to ask… of course I will… wait why are you even asking so formally we're already dating…"
Nova smiled embarrassed, "Sorry, figured since we never went on any official dates, that I had to proceed with all the formalities, you know?"
"What you mean to tell me saving Vale wasn't an official date?" She asked sarcastically.
"Oh haha. Since when did you become so shrewd?"
"My boyfriend is the world's cheekiest dragon, and I live with Weiss." She returned with a cute smile.
"Point taken."
-The next day-
The day sped by with Nova wallowing in contemplation and borderline misery. As much as he wanted to concentrate on his upcoming date, his thoughts were plagued by the gravity of the situation around him. A storm was coming, and they needed to be ready. Hex was spending her time with Yang, and Nitro was hanging out with his new best friend Jaune, leaving Nova to mull over his distressing thoughts alone.
At least that was the situation until Pyrrha had come to see him again, she'd wanted advice on how to proceed. "I want to accept this, I really do… but.." she'd said to him.
"But you're afraid. You're afraid of stepping into our world and being caught up in a war that you want nothing to do with. Am I right?" Nova asked reclining on the armchair in his room as Pyrrha stood at his door.
She nodded in confirmation. "I'm terrified that by taking up this mantle of the next Fall Maiden, I'd… get my family, friends, everyone I love swept up in the crossfire." She rubbed her right arm sore. "How do you put up with it? How do you prevent Ruby and the others from getting thrown into this?"
Nova grimaced, "I didn't. All of them already know, even Luna, she's also an Aspect."
The red-head gasped in shock, "How could you?! You allowed them to put themselves in danger!" her words were harsh and filled with disbelief and anger.
The dragon was stoic, "Pyrrha, understand this when duty calls on you, your actions and responsibilities are no longer your own. The people you love will get caught up in it whether you try to stop them or not. I tried to hide my identity, to distance myself from those uninvolved. I tried to keep my problems to myself. Things… happened during our first mission that dragged them all on this highway to hell, but they chose to stay."
"What do you mean?" she said looking pensive.
"What I say in this room does not leave this room. Hex ensured that there was no remote way of monitoring what goes on in here so…" Nova glanced at the door as if expecting it to burst open at any moment, but it didn't. "This whole mess is Ozpin's fault."
Pyrrha was flabbergasted, "What…?"
"Ozpin sent us on that mission to the Vale coast all those months ago. He planned our partnership with RWBY. Sure he's been helpful, and our objectives are the same mostly, but he's a sly one. He could've sent us on that mission alone, but he chose to send in team RWBY as well. He's given us a place to stay, helping us where we needed it, at the price of being his pawns. Yes, we've been getting results, but I've never seen the reason why a team of trainee huntsmen was chosen to bear these burdens." Nova explained his thoughts.
"Isn't it because of time? He's had no other choice…" Pyrrha defended.
"Time for what Pyrrha? Ozpin hasn't told us what he's fighting to stop. It's not the White Fang, though I doubt our enemies are so different now… There's something, someone else he's fighting. A threat to not just him but the kingdoms as well, perhaps the fucking whole of Remnant. So, WHO are we fighting? Why is this information being kept from us?" Nova's emotions were spilling forth again.
"I…" She was at a loss for words. She'd just realized how quickly she was about to seal her fate, all for the purpose of responsibility. It never occurred to her that she'd be fighting without knowing what she was up against. She'd submit herself to the control of someone who didn't trust his own soldiers with basic information. Ozpin had somehow managed to word his charismatic lines in such a way that she was roped in without a shred of doubt, while simultaneously leaving out the biggest hole in his plan… the objective.
It was then she realized just how smart Nova actually was. He'd been seeing right through Ozpin since the start, he'd only been cooperating because it benefitted them both. He'd led Ozpin to think he'd crafted the perfect soldier when in reality, Nova was just as skeptical about the whole ordeal as an atheist in church.
Nova saw the look on her face, the gravity of her situation finally dawning on her. "Pyrrha, you came here for my advice, so I'll give you my two cents."
Her look of emotional disturbance was torn and instantly she was at attention.
"My advice is, don't take the offer. No amount of power, or responsibility, is worth tearing your own life apart. Keep to yourself, reject him, complete your training as a huntress and live out your days with Jaune, happily ever after." Nova said.
Pyrrha was about to speak up but was interrupted, "BUT! Should something happen, should all of this," he made a wide gesture, " End up going to shit. You'll live the rest of your life knowing that you had the option to make a change, and you'll regret it. Knowing the type of person you are, you'll regret it, the memory will haunt you and eat you alive until there's nothing left. At the end of the day, you and I are both leaders at heart, we both want to see the people we love safe and happy."
Pyrrha nodded, "I'd want nothing more than for my family, friends, even regular people safe from the threat of the Grimm… and I guess… whatever else is out there."
"Exactly. Pyrrha, I don't want you to take the role of the Fall Maiden. In fact, I hope to Oum that you reject him and never look back. But… you and I both know that's not something you can do so easily."
Her eyes were downcast, like a child being lectured.
"The choice is yours, I'm not going to make the decision for you. All I've done is laid out the stakes, the pros and cons of both ends so you can make your choice." He said ominously. He knew her answer, she already knew as well. It was because of who they were that the choice was already obvious.
She nodded, "Thank you… I'll… think on your words…" she motioned for the door.
Just as she was about to leave Nova called out, "Pyrrha." She turned around. "Just… remember what I said yesterday as well… if you really do choose to go down this path… As your friend, I'll guide you and stand with you every step of the way." He saluted with a raised fist.
She flashed him a knowing smirk and raised her fist in response as well then left without a word.
Nova collapsed on his bed, closing his eyes. It was times like these he wished he was a smoker, he'd have something to calm his nerves… but he wasn't.
"FUCK!" He cursed, slamming his fist onto the bed, glad no one else was in the room. He dragged his palms across his face. The world around him was practically collapsing. He knew he couldn't live the peaceful life much longer, still, it stung him in his soul to know that those days were coming to an end. He could feel it in his core, every instinct he had was telling him that life as he knew it would collapse, and the only thing he wished, more than anything else… was that his friends, and especially Ruby, stay the only consistent factors.
RUBY! He checked his scroll for the time, it was three in the afternoon. He'd promised Ruby he'd pick her up at six.
Thank Oum, I still have something to look forward to…
Nova knocked on the team RWBY dorm, he was clad in a black denim jacket with a red undershirt, on it was a white burning flame. He had on matching black jeans and combat boots because he'd be damned if he wore any other footwear.
Yang was the one who answered the door, "Nova, she'll be ready in a minute… this gives us some time…"
The tone she held made the dragon roll his eyes, "Yang really?"
"Yes now, what are your intentions with my sister?" she asked eyeing him.
"We'll be back home by eleven, it's dinner at Chateau Noir, and from there we were heading to the fairgrounds." He explained.
The blonde sighed, "Fine. Seems decent enough… just no funny business alright?"
"Yang… are you for real?" He asked raising his eyebrow.
She pinched the bridge of her nose, "Still getting used to the whole, my sister has a boyfriend thing okay? Cut me some slack." She closed the door on him again.
The dragon waited a minute, exactly one, and the door opened again, this time revealing a rather shy Ruby Rose.
She was wearing a black jacket that went up to her mid-section, accompanied by a white shirt with a pink rose symbol and a white skirt that went to her mid-thigh. Her hair was done so it was parted down the middle with a single strand coming from the center of her forehead. On top of all this, she was wearing makeup.
"Ruby… you look… gorgeous… like, you usually look amazing but, now you're just stunning…" He gazed, mouth agape.
She turned crimson, "T-Thanks… you look... really handsome…" She twirled her thumbs.
"Is that makeup? Ruby, you know you don't have to wear that stuff, you're flawless without it." He reached up and held her face so their eyes met.
"It was Weiss' idea. Glad to see you think I'm a flawless Ruby." She snickered at her own joke.
"Oh, you've been infected by Yang. Guess you have one flaw." He smiled.
"Shut up, you dork," she reached up and pulled him down for a kiss.
The sound of a camera going off was heard and Nova had to mentally swear not to kill them.
"Come on Red, let's go before they take any more pictures of us." He took her by the hand and pulled her out.
The quiet sound of someone, possibly Nora, saying 'FUCK!'
"So…. Where are we going?" the red leader asked as they paraded through the uptown area of Vale.
"Can't spoil the surprise now can I?" Nova said, his armed linked in hers.
Eventually the two came upon a rather large building. The outside was all black, yet the fancy spotlights, various hanging banners and line of people practically flowing into the street said it was anything but a morgue.
"Chateau Noir? How did you…?" Her implied words were left unsaid. Chateau Noir was the most prestigious restaurant in Vale, even though it'd only popped up a year ago, it's business had been booming ever since, and with the festival going on, it was even tougher to get a spot here than it would be to break into a bank vault.
In a world where Huntsmen and Huntresses existed, and supernatural powers, those bank vaults had to be pretty damn sturdy.
Nova took them right through the front door, ignoring the lines, and the various angered stares of the people standing in them. Once they were inside, the contrasted interior made them gape in wonder. The inside was all white, with accentuated black tables and pristine furniture. Paintings and Photographs of various Huntsmen and their exploits hung on the wall across the room, and a live band playing jazz was perched atop a heightened platform, in the middle of the back wall.
"Sir, you cannot simply waltz up to our desk, you must wait in line like everyone else." A stocky and rather pompous looking man said from the front.
"Now that's rather rude... You didn't even ask me if I had a reservation?" Nova quirked his brow, mildly amused at the man's antics.
He sputtered, "Well, I only assumed since you're teenagers that…"
"Exactly. You assumed, emphasis on the 'ass'. I believe you have a reservation for a 'Mr. Flareheart'? Table for two at this hour?" Nova asked no longer amused.
The man checked his logbook and his eyes went wide. He glanced up at Nova once more to ensure he was looking at the right person. "M-My apologies Mr… I mean your highness, Prince Nova Flareheart…" the sudden change in the man's tone was very amusing.
Prince? I don't remember telling them my status… oh right… I did tell the world during that one battle… shit…
Ruby snickered at the man's flabbergasted expression.
"And you must be Miss Rose? My dearest apologies, sir. This way please." He led the couple to a special table with a fire symbol on the cloth, it matched the one on Nova's shirt. It was a wonder with all the fame the dragon prince held, and the matching symbol, did the man not recognize them instantly.
The moment they were seated and the waiter left, Ruby spoke up. "How did he know my name? Hell, how did you even get reservations at this place?"
Nova poked her cheek, "Think about the name of this place for a second, and then think about my… friends…" he made a hand gesture that looked like him twirling his hand in a circle.
Slowly it dawned on her, "This is his place?" She was referring to Mortus Noir.
"Yup. I've had a spot at this restaurant since that day I saved his life. This… is the first time I'm actually using it." Nova explained.
"Wait so… this is rat guy's place? Is the food even safe?!" Ruby asked thinking about the type of man Mortus Noir was.
Nova shrugged, "This is his legitimate business, and it's a damn good one. All organized criminals with high cash income need some way to prove their earnings, otherwise the banks start asking questions."
"And how do you know this?" Ruby asked eyeing him slyly.
"Because, my adorable little Rose, your boyfriend is anything but a saint." He pinched her cheek. "I might be royalty, and I might be a good guy, but I am the opposite of a law-abiding citizen. How do you think I get my spending cash?"
Ruby gaped, "Nova! Stealing is wrong!" she berated him, lightly hitting his arm.
"Hey, it was one time, and I really had no other choice. Life on the streets was tough, then Hex taught us a trick when we were on the run after our first year at Haven. We stole 1 cent of Lien from every single person in the four kingdoms, and maybe a couple hundred from every one of the SDC's… less than savory transactions."
"Does Weiss know?" Ruby asked eyeing him as he mentioned the SDC.
"No…. and you're not going to tell her, that's between me and her father. Besides, I only stole from their black-market stuff, as transaction tax on their deposits. Stealing from the rich and giving to the needy, the needy being me." He smiled shooting finger guns.
Ruby pouted, "Still doesn't make it right… but I guess it's justified."
"Exactly. I haven't done anything illegal since."
She eyed him, "Hmmm~, you better not or I'll arrest you myself"
"I'd probably like that," Nova winked, causing her to turn crimson.
They'd sat there chatting away for several minutes, occasionally Nova would say something cheesy, and Ruby would blush anyway because she knew he meant it. To the normal person, they looked like a happy couple, however, most of the attendees were what one considers to be society's upper one percent.
Ruby couldn't hear them, but Nova's dragon senses picked up on it all.
'Is that the prince people have been talking about?'
'A Faunus and a human… together! Has she gone mad?'
'Probably after his money, he is royalty…'
'Filthy Faunus, I bet she's into the whole… animal thing… filthy whore'
Nova had enough, he could feel his blood pressure rising with the sheer fury he was emitting. It took all his willpower not to set the offending table of people on fire.
He promptly got up, and glared daggers at the nearest offending table. It was a wealthy party, probably some rich folk from Vale's high society.
"Nova, what's wrong?" Ruby asked looking at him concerned. His expression was dark and furious, she'd never seen him this livid before, even though he didn't outwardly show all of his fury, she could feel the temperature of the air around them rising.
"Ruby, there's some things in this world I really can't stand." He said loudly enough so the entire room heard him. "On that list, include, racists, idiots, and closed-minded people." He was now staring directly at the head of the table of the offending party.
A middle-aged man, wearing what looked to be military uniform. "You can insult me all you want, personally words don't affect me. However, the moment you insulted her, you crossed the line." He pointed at Ruby who looked confused.
The man looked baffled that he'd been heard, "I've said nothing of the sort." he tried to deny.
Nova looked at him unimpressed by his pathetic attempt to save face. He tapped his ears, "Faunus hearing. Think about your lies carefully before you utter them you fool."
"Nova? It's fine, people like that aren't worth your time…" She said trying to calm him down. She didn't know what they said and frankly, she didn't want to.
"No Ruby." He turned back to the man, "You can say what you want about me, call me what you want, but do not drag her name through that filthy mouth of yours. Ruby is the kindest, sweetest girl in the entire world. She wouldn't hurt a soul and I'm pretty sure she'd adopt all the stray animals in the world if she could. She's out there, risking her life and fighting for the sake of all of you." He gestured to the entire room.
"What? You're just some teenagers who think too highly of themselves. What gives you the right?" the pompous man retorted. Nova had to fight every instinct in his body not to rush over there and strangle him.
Nova instead took a deep breath and continued, "She's several hundred times the person you'd ever be, so don't you dare disrespect her. I don't remember seeing you at the battle when the Breach happened, where were you huh? Because I can tell you where she was. She was directly in the middle of it, smack dab in the front lines, running herself ragged trying to stop the Grimm from killing everyone. She's done more for this kingdom than anyone else her age, so you better show some fucking respect."
"And what if I don't huh? You're just some Faunus royalty wanna be. What're you going to do about it." The man now stood up.
"You're not worth the effort." He spat before taking Ruby's hand and helping her to stand. "Come on Rubes, let's get out of here… go somewhere where we're wanted." People like that man lived off of the chaos they caused. They lived to be instigators of conflict, doing nothing in times of real hardship, yet reaping the rewards of those around them. Giving him any more attention would be like pouring gasoline on a fire.
Ruby was shocked, to say the least. She didn't know what that man said to make Nova so angry, but she felt warmed to know that he would willingly drop everything to stand up for her. The two exited without even bothering to order.
"Hmph serves him right. World's better off without people like him." The pompous man sat back down. A waiter came up to him.
"Sir, I'm going to have to ask you to leave…" the waiter said.
"What? I'm a paying customer. Under whose authority?!" He was furious.
"By order of management. You've just insulted a member of the Menagerian royal family, not to mention a close friend of the owner of this restaurant. As of this moment, you and your offending family are banned." The waiter said calmly, not a shred of remorse.
"You can't make me. I demand justice!" He yelled only for two large men in black suits to come in from the backroom and manhandle him outside, tossing him and the offending guests onto the street.
The night air was crisp and warm, the night sky illuminated by the specs of stars amidst the city lights. Nova and Ruby were now well enough away from the restaurant, now entering the fairgrounds.
"Nova… are you alright? You got pretty heated back there…" Ruby said looking at his distressed face.
His expression softened and he stopped his furious walking, "Sorry for exploding back there… I just couldn't let that guy insult you like that. He called you a-" she cut him off by placing a finger on his lips.
"I don't care what he said. People like him aren't worth your time and energy. Let's just… enjoy the rest of the night okay?" She said with a grin that seemed to melt away his worries.
Suddenly both of their stomachs growled. "Right. We sorta left without getting any food…"
Ruby giggled, "Well I happen to know a certain noodle stand that's open this hour of the night~" she said earning an ear-splitting grin from her boyfriend.
"That's all you had to say. Come on my treat for ruining dinner." He returned.
The two sat at the noodle stall scarfing down two massive bowls. Talking with their mouths full, sauce covering both of their faces, burping without bothering to cover it. This was how they were meant to be, not in some fancy restaurant, it wasn't like them.
They say when you find someone who you can be completely open with, act as gross as you want without being judged, say what you want without worry, and just be able to spend hours talking to them about absolutely nothing, then you've found your soulmate.
They finished up their meals and began exploring the grounds, holding hands and just walking around.
"I feel fat, I think I ate two bowls too many…" Nova said patting his stomach.
Ruby leaned over and poked him in the abs, "Yeah, you're not as solid as normal. I'm going to have to cut you off from snacks." She teased.
Nova pouted, "NO! Not the snacks… please, Ruby, I'll do anything!" he said in fake distress.
She giggled at his antics, "Well… you could, I don't know… persuade me?" she asked looking into his eyes.
"Say no more." He smiled, leaned down and planted a tender kiss on her lips. "How's that for persuasion?"
"Consider me persuaded." She laughed.
"So the fairgrounds are fun and all but what exactly-" she was cut off when they passed a stall.
"TEST YOUR STRENGTH! Arm Wrestle for a prize!" A large muscular man with a mustache said. "AH the young couple, care to win a prize for the lady?"
Nova and Ruby glanced at each other, "Sure why not…"
"Nova, you know your semblance is cheating in this type of situation. I'll wrestle for your prize." She smirked and pushed him back, sauntering up the man.
"Alright, little lady. Win me at arm wrestling and you can pick whatever prize you want." He placed his arm in position.
"Hmph don't go easy on me." She smirked, taking his hand in position as well. A bell sounded and they both began to wrestle for dominance… sadly it was over in seconds as Ruby sent his hand crashing through the table.
"Oh sorry… I didn't mean to break your table…" Ruby apologized looking embarrassed.
The man stood flabbergasted, "UH…. It's…. fine… just uh… take your pick…" he wasn't expecting to be trounced by a girl almost half his size.
Nova watched in amusement as Ruby totaled the man's arm and stall and walked away with... a knife?
"Ruby… was the prize you chose… a knife? Why is that even a prize?" He asked analyzing the blade. It was a small dagger, about the size of a pocket knife, but the blade was energized by dust. Apparently the type of blade changed depending on the dust used, it was rather nifty.
"Yeah, none of the other prizes were as cool. Figured, you'd like whatever I thought was good…" she said placing the blade in his hands.
He took it gratefully and placed a small peck on her lips, "Thanks love. I'll treasure it always."
"Ugh you're such a dork sometimes…" she said as they continued on.
"Yeah, but I'm your dork."
"Touche."
"Is that a photo booth?" Nova said as they passed a box-like stall with a curtain.
"OOH Let's get some commemorative phots of our first official date." She squealed dragging him inside.
"Ruby these photos are…" he wanted to say weird.
"PERFECT!" She held them to her chest. Most of them were of Nova looking dazed by camera flashes or confused by the screen options. There was one normal looking one where they both had their heads leaned against each other, smiling like idiots.
"It's getting pretty late… we should head back." Nova suggested looking at his scroll. They'd spent so much time just enjoying each other's company that it was already ten o'clock. They had roughly an hour to make it back to Beacon otherwise Yang would explode on them.
"Yeah… don't want the mama hen to start attacking you when she finds out we're late." Ruby chuckles referring to Yang.
Nova grimaced, "Yeah I'd rather not have her forcibly turn me into a girl then stick gum in my hair and staple it to the door."
"That's oddly specific."
"I had a really vivid dream once… it was rough…"
Ruby giggled at his facial expression, which looked like he was having PTSD.
"How about you carry me all the way back hm?" Ruby asked.
"What's this all of a sudden? Your legs stopped working?" He asked mockingly.
She pouted, "No, I'm just tired. Carry me, servant!"
He rolled his eyes and smiled, "As you command your highness." He knelt down and allowed her to climb onto his back. Her head rested on his shoulder nuzzling him.
"Onward noble steed!" She pointed ordering him to march forward. He happily complied.
Eventually, he felt her head droop and rest lightly on his right shoulder, the sound of soft quiet snores could be heard. She'd fallen asleep.
Nova smiled and nuzzled her cheek, "You're too pure for this world Ruby. I hope you stay this way forever."
Well, I had to cut this chapter a little short in terms of what I wanted to write, because I ended up writing alot on Nova's introspection in the first half, I decided to scrap my initial plan for this chapter and just focus on building character.
Next chapter, tackling the singles matches and the drama that comes with them. Hopefully, I finish that in less time than this one.
