Still practicing, Weiss? Pyrrha had taken the time to leave Yang, Ruby, Jaune, Nora and Ren in their games and antics to seek out the reserved little princess. Pyrrha found Weiss at her desk, her next week's worth of homework completed and set aside in a neat pile on the side, and the board game pieces and cards in front of her. Pyrrha took a seat on Weiss' bed. You know that being good at that game doesn't give you bonus marks and stuff, right?

Weiss turned away from her cards for a moment. I know that. She said testily. But Yang likes playing it and I want to be able to keep up with her. Plus, father seems to think it's a good determinant for strategizing and many scholars have advocated for its inclusion into the curriculum under the basis that its a good measure of base talent.

Yeah, but none of that should matter to you. You aren't going to take over your father's place anyways. Yang is. Pyrrha reasoned, brushing a loose strand of hair behind her ear.

Weiss fiddled with her thumb before spinning to face her back to Pyrrha. Yang helps me out a lot with everything. I just figured I'd keep up so if she needs help whenever or something, I'll be able to give it.

Pyrrha smiled. You're a good sister Weiss.

Whatever. Weiss responded cooly, though Pyrrha could sense the smile she was hiding. It's sort of unfair really. Yang and Ruby don't study at all and have an above ninety average. Any studying they do is crammed in the twelve hours before the exam. I, on the other hand, study everyday, do the pre-readings, practice and I just barely make ninety. Weiss huffed in frustration.

Yeah. People like that are rather annoying. Pyrrha agreed — her style matching Weiss' more so than Yang's and Ruby's.

Weiss shot Pyrrha a look. You're one to talk. Aren't you getting a hundred percent in every class? Not to mention you're athletic. And ridiculously beautiful. How the heck are you so… perfect?

Pyrrha looked uncomfortable. I'm not that great really. Then, she deflected, I could tutor you if you want, crossing her legs.

Really? Weiss said.

Yeah. Not that I think you'd need much help. I just find that explaining things to other people actually helps me understand more. We could do our homework together too while we're at it. Pyrrha reasoned.

Weiss let the edge of her lips curve up into a smile. Sounds like a plan.

In exchange… Pyrrha continued.

At that Weiss frowned, There were conditions?

It's nothing bad really. Pyrrha added hastily, holding out her hands in an appeasing motion. I just want you to tell me something.

Weiss blinked, crossing her arms. Tell you what?

Well, you know Jaune?

Yes? Weiss prompted when Pyrrha didn't continue.

He's planning to ask you out.

Okay?

So you know, I just, if you… you know. Pyrrha stammered.

After studying Pyrrha for a moment, Weiss relaxed, having a pretty good idea of what was going on. It's fine. I'll reject him — like I was planning to anyways.

Pyrrha beamed at Weiss, then quickly smothered her happiness. No, I mean, I'm not asking that you reject him if you don't want to. I just wanted to know—

Trust me, he's not my type. Weiss cut Pyrrha off.

Oh. Okay. Great then. Pyrrha smiled.

So we have a deal? Weiss confirmed.

Absolutely.

Yang, Lord Schnee spoke in an authoritative yet endearing tone in between mouthfuls of his dinner. He sat regally at the end of the table. His poise grand yet his features soft. Would you care to accompany me to my meeting tomorrow?

Yang piped up in her seat, her eyes brightening up immediately. Really Dad? She set down her fork in her clatter of excitement. She turned to Weiss, beaming. Weiss nodded back, proud of her sister.

Of course, Lord Schnee huffed. You've been doing extraordinarily in school. You deserve it. I think it's time some of the councilmen get acquainted with my future successor. Lord Schnee winked at Yang, Right?

Yes, of course! Yang agreed immediately, her smile stretching off her cheeks.

Perhaps, Cinder spoke up, wiping her lips with a serviette. Her words rolled off her tongue and into the air in a sensual manner. Weiss could also join you? After all, she was also awarded the Chancellor's Scholar Award, along with Yang, Cinder gestured at the older sibling, Ruby and Pyrrha Nikos. She also deserves a day with her father at work, don't you believe?

Mother, Weiss began to refute the offer.

Oh yeah! Yang exclaimed, cutting Weiss off. Weiss-y, you should come too. It'll be fun and stuff. See where I'll be working in the future. Yang was still brimming with pride.

Lord Schnee leaned back in his chair. I don't see why not. Weiss, if you so wish you may come as well.

Well, Weiss began but then she caught sight of Yang's eager expression. Why not? Weiss shrugged. You should experience everything at least once.

Once became twice. Twice became thrice.

And so forth.

Oh my goodness! I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to disturb you. I mean, I did, but I didn't. I didn't think you'd be awake yet. And there was—

Velvet, Weiss cut the stammering Faunus off. It's alright. Weiss waved the Faunus in. Weiss wasn't doing anything particularly important — she was just reviewing the statements for the meeting, just as Father had instructed them to. You don't have to apologize. Weiss reassured. Since they had saved Velvet the day before, and the Faunus had promptly fallen asleep after washing up, they hadn't had much of a chance to get acquainted. Weiss hoped they could get past the Faunus' constant state of nervousness and fear sooner rather than later — stammering really grated on her nerves.

I brought you breakfast. Velvet said smoothly, holding the tray up and easing into the room. I brought some for Yang as well but she's sound asleep so I just left it by her bed.

Yeah, that oaf won't wake up unless the house is burning down. Weiss rolled her eyes fondly. Weiss stood up, walking over to Velvet and taking the tray from her. You didn't have to. We have a cook for this.

Velvet reddened. I know. I got the food from the cook. I just— my old Master had me bring breakfast in bed for him everyday. So I woke up and started doing it before I realized and then I just figured I might as well just bring it and—

Okay, Weiss said. Thank you, I appreciate it. Weiss set the tray on her desk, ripping off a piece of bread and putting it in her mouth. Would you care to join me for breakfast?

Oh no, I couldn't. Velvet shook her head.

Have you eaten? Weiss switched tactics.

I have not.

Weiss pulled a chair over to join hers. Then I insist. I don't eat much anyways — this is definitely too much for me.

After a bit more convincing, Velvet sat down and ate with Weiss.

They talked for a bit.

And every morning after that.

Weiss hated politics.

But there she was, plastering a smile on her face listening to this old guy spout nonsense about their current justice system — which was so incredibly flawed by the way! Mother had forced her to attend this business gala. Yang was really the only one of the two siblings who wanted to go. But alas, one way or another Weiss had ended up stuffed into a shiny dress, propped on heels, and marched into the dining hall. Out of the corner of her eye, she spotted her father, and cast a look at him.

Father never disappointed. He swiftly made his way to stand beside Weiss.

Lord Winchester, I see you've met my beautiful daughter. Lord Schnee beamed down proudly at Weiss, holding Weiss gently by the waist. Lord Schnee chuckled, One of them at least.

Lord Winchester smiled. She is extremely beautiful — and intelligent too. My Cardin has been taken with her ever since their first meeting. Lord Winchester turned to Weiss. Are you sure you won't reconsider his proposal.

It took everything in Weiss not to gag at that statement. I politely decline. I'm sure Lord Cardin will find someone better suited for him in the near future. Weiss smiled thinly. There must be a number of girls who are fighting for his attention.

Ah, flattery. Lord Winchester grinned. This one will be a good politician. Are you sure she wouldn't be a better choice than the other?

Weiss' fake smile fell off her lips. She gaped incredulously at the self-proclaimed Lord. Weiss knew what the Lord was talking about of course — Yang wasn't very good at subtly, or white lies. Not that being honest to a fault was a bad thing… it was just, generally, not helpful during political maneuvering. Weiss made fun of Yang for being too straightforward and lectured Yang about the deficiencies of being honest all the time. But it was one thing for Weiss to make fun of her sister, but for this guy to insult Yang? She raced through a list of ways to tell this pompous guy off.

Luckily, Lord Schnee had the restraint and maturity needed to de-escalate the situation. He laughed. Yes, maybe I should make Weiss here the heir. If only to save the other councilmen from brutal honesty. Lord Schnee shot Weiss a twinkling look.

Weiss smiled, relaxing. She laughed. Yes, maybe you should, Father.

Well then, we should be going, Lord Schnee sieged into an exit strategy. As much as we enjoy your company, my Lord, as hosts we need to make some rounds before the night is over.

Oh of course, I apologize for monopolizing your time.

Weiss curtsied before being lead away by her father, exhaling in relief finally. Weiss looked up at her father gratefully, her expression saying everything.

Don't like him much? Lord Schnee teased fondly.

Not particularly. Weiss shivered, recalling the almost arranged marriage that had happened earlier that year. Thank you for making sure I wouldn't have to marry Cardin.

Lord Schnee winked. Not your cup of tea?

Exactly. Weiss smiled. She really did love her father.

Pyrrha Nikos then is more your type? Should I arrange for that? A Nikos-Schnee merger would be unstoppable. Lord Schnee continued teasing.

Weiss turned red and frantically gasped at her father. You— no. I mean. She— she has someone she likes.

Okay, princess, Lord Schnee affectionately brushed a stray strand of hair behind Weiss' ear. I just want to see you find someone you love to marry. Lord Schnee grinned as he handed Weiss a cup of wine he had poured. That's on my bucket list. That and seeing you become a famous singer.

Weiss was astonished. You… you know about… I mean…?

Lord Schnee smirked. Yang told me about it a few times. So unfortunately, as much as I know you love politics, Lord Schnee teased sarcastically, Yang is still going to be my heir.

Weiss smiled, then her expression dampened slightly. I'm sorry that I don't want to continue on the family business. After all you've done for me after all…

Don't be silly, Weiss. Lord Schnee lay a hand on Weiss' shoulder, squeezing warmly. To be honest, I was worried that both of you would be fighting for the spot of heir and that I'd have to choose between you. I could never make that choice — you both are talented, intelligent and strong women in your own ways. So I thank you for wanting something different for yourself. Lord Schnee smiled. But maybe you could keep up with your studies just in case Yang needs a replacement every so often.

Weiss nodded eagerly. Of course I will.

It was that night that Yang and Velvet became a thing.

Yang. Weiss spoke up, passing Yang down the corridor. The meeting room's the other way. Weiss informed sharply. Yang had been skipping one too many meetings as of late, leaving Weiss to cover for her. The first time, Weiss hadn't even planned on being in that meeting but had coincidently walked passed the meeting room to find that Yang wasn't present — and thus, took her place for that day. The second time, Yang had told her that she was busy and needed Weiss to cover for her. Then, the next time, when Yang did in fact attend the meeting, she hadn't read any of the materials and so dragged Weiss along with her. Weiss did not enjoy this.

Oh right, Yang drawled out, turning around just to walk backwards so that she was still headed away from the meeting. I think I'll pass on that today.

Yang! Weiss scolded. You can't just skip meetings when you feel like it. If you're going to be heir, you need to act like one.

Oh yeah, like you act like one? Yang shot back, rolling her eyes and turning back around.

Yang! What the hell? Weiss yelled, stomping down to block Yang's passage. Stop it. Seriously. It's not funny. Go to the meeting.

Look, Yang shrugged. I have better things to do.

Weiss' eyes flashed. Going on a date with Velvet does not constitute as 'something better to do' okay? Get your priorities straight.

Yang's eyes turned scarlet red. I do have my priorities straight, thank you very much. Since you seem to think going to meetings are so fucking important, you can go to the meeting yourself!

With that, Yang stormed away.

Velvet, Weiss spoke, breaking a sort of deathly silence that had never been a part of their morning ritual. They could normally find things to talk about — anything really. How their day had been going. They asked for advice on things. Talked about the things they wanted. Weiss had at one point vented to Velvet about her straight best friend crush on a certain individual who… well, it was rather dramatic. But that morning, things were tense.

Yes Weiss? Velvet asked softly, nibbling on her muffin.

Yang really likes you. Weiss informed, her mind racing back to seeing Yang creep out of Velvet's room and her rash judgement of Yang's behaviour. Yang had strung along countless girls and was, by all accounts, not a virgin in any way. While Weiss believed that Yang was always honest, and upfront, and never cheated or anything — people still got hurt. You can't control who you fall in love with. And Weiss actually liked Velvet! Not to mention, Yang couldn't just run away from Velvet to avoid any problems or tension that might occur like Yang had done with her other girlfriends. But, Weiss admitted that upon observation, it seemed Velvet was different for Yang.

I know. Velvet replied, her movements slowing.

If you hurt her…

Velvet stifled a giggle. Is the little sister trying to give me the protective big sister talk?

Weiss narrowed her eyes at Velvet. I can be plenty intimidating you know.

I know. Velvet replied fondly. Don't worry, you know I'd never purposely hurt you or Yang right?

Yeah. I know.

Yang.

Weiss called out the name helplessly through her tears.

Yang.

Weiss placed her hands on Yang's shoulders and shook, gently at first, but then more frantically. Weiss didn't like that catatonic look on her sister's face. Yang couldn't leave Weiss alone. Not at a time like this. Oh my god. Yang. Yang, please. I need you.

Yang didn't seem to register a word Weiss had said.

Weiss sat down beside Yang on the bench outside the hospital ward. She wrapped her arms around Yang's and leaned her head on Yang's shoulder, crying into Yang's shirt. Father's dead, Yang. Oh my god, he's dead. The tears streamed endlessly down Weiss' face. Weiss sobbed, clutching at Yang's limp arm more tightly. Please? Weiss pleaded weakly though she wasn't quite sure what she was pleading for. Yang?

You're supposed to protect me! Weiss yelled, shaking Yang furiously. That was the deal right? I follow you around everywhere and listen to you no matter what. So you have to take care of me and protect me and stuff, right? That's what you promised.

Yang. Weiss called out again, more quietly, more resigned.

You're my older sister, right? Right?

Yang never responded. She was too lost in her own grief.

Heels clacked on sterile tiles. They approached Weiss.

The councilmen are asking for Yang, Weiss' mother informed.

Weiss craned her neck to look up at Cinder. Weiss wiped away at her tears. What? No. Yang can't go like this! They can't expect her to be able to function so soon! Weiss protested.

Cinder bit her lip. They're threatening to kick her off the council if she doesn't claim her seat though.

What?! Weiss couldn't think. This was too soon. Weiss turned back to Yang. Yang, please. Yang? Weiss tried slapping Yang's cheeks gently. Yang, wake up.

Why don't you just take her place for now? You know how, after all? Cinder suggested, taking hold of Weiss' hand and halting her attempts at waking Yang.

I can't do that. That's Yang's spot. This is Yang's dream. Weiss protested feebly.

You're protecting her dream. If you don't go now, she may never get the chance to lead. Cinder reasoned.

Weiss fidgeted, tapping on her arm with her index finger frantically. She stood up abruptly. Then turned around and gave Yang a hug, kissing her sister on the forehead. You better be okay when I get back. Weiss ordered, her voice breaking slightly before steeling herself.

Off she went to lead the first meeting.

Hey guys, sorry for the lack of updates. I have finals this week and the next so there still might not be many updates until after then. But when I'm done with finals, we're back to daily updates, I promise!

~ Cynnifer