RWBY: The Verdant Light of Remnant
Chapter 4: The Trials of Emerald Valley
Author's Notes: Ok, now before we start, i've been reading comments about the changes i made & why i made them in the first place instead of FULLY sticking into canon.
I've already explained one of the reasons & that's because there's already too many Isekai RWBY Xovers that don't change longterm wise outside of what the isekaied character does which isn't that much most of the time. So i thought that mixing things up would make things more interesting & for those who said that no big changes have happened yet, i NEVER said that the big changes would be immediate! You can't expect the story to suddenly change out of nowhere instead of changing while it's progressing. However, i confess. I never said HOW much it would change & when the BIG changes would start.
The bigger changes will begin a few chapters after team RWBY is formed, one of those changes you're already aware of: There's gonna be a mock battle between the 2 teams with the highest scores of the initiation test (in this case, Team RWBY & Byleth vs Team JNPR & Glynda), i'm also gonna write some chapters that'll be the equivalent of FE3H'S Paralogue chapters to help flesh out the characters a little more as well as build up to some stuff that will happen in the future. But that's all i'm gonna say for the moment, the rest you'll have to wait & see, so PLEASE be patient, cause writing these chapters takes a long time until i finally got a version that i'm satisfied with.
Anyways, thank you once again to the people who ARE supporting this series, as well to Tpoynt, who's also helping me out with ideas for this story every now & then, now let's get started.
The following is a non-profit Alternate Universe fanfiction.
RWBY is owned by Rooster Teeth, Warner Bros. & the late Monty Oum. While Fire Emblem: Three Houses is owned by Nintendo, Intelligent Systems & Koei Tecmo. Please support the original release.
Also, major spoilers for both RWBY & Fire Emblem: Three Houses, specifically the Verdant Wind Route. If you haven't caught up with either of them, it's recommended that you catch up with both of them before reading this story.
& On that note, enjoy this chapter.
March 22nd of Valean Year 1180, today is the day where the initiation at Emerald Valley begins & the students are preparing themselves for what's to come. A giant scavenger hunt in a giant labyrinth of a valley that's filled with many dangerous Grimm, traps & more. The potential new students have their hands full, but for the most part, they're confident that they can do this. We begin today's tale with Byleth waking up in her old room, with Sothis sleeping on the bed next to her & like always, she finds the goddess quite adorable when she sleeps like that. After a nice early morning shower & breakfast, she heads towards Ozpin's office to go & meet him, since she was gonna watch the test at Emerald Valley alongside him & Glynda. Ozpin then notices his door getting knocked as he turns around to face whoever's coming to greet him.
Ozpin: You may come in.
As Ozpin drinks his coffee, Byleth gets inside with her new outfit that Glynda gave her. A black, long-sleeved jacket with silver accents on the middle zipper line & the wrist areas & a black skirt that goes from her belly button to halfway to her knees, she wears knee high white socks & short black shoes, a long black cape & a cool black cap, with a golden deer insignia on the center, her hair is also adjusted a little nicer than usual. (TLDR: It's basically that School Teacher DLC outfit from the original game) Last night, Byleth asked Glynda to help her with a new attire since she wants to keep her usual attire for battles, Glynda was actually quite pleased with Byleth's request & now, here we are.
Ozpin: Ah, Ms. Eisner, good to see that you're well rested & with a new look as well.
Ozpin says that while looking at Byleth's professor attire.
Byleth: *Bows down* Thank you, Your Majesty. Glynda aided me on this new attire last night since my wardrobe was rather-… lacking!...
Ozpin: I see, well you both have done a wonderful job. Now then, for why I called you here. As I explained to you last night, you shall accompany Glynda & I to watch the initiation test that shall take place at Emerald Valley, I want you to see firsthand on what kind of students you will be taking under your wing. As your report stated, you said that you're knowledgeable in warfare, tactics & working as a unit, correct?
Byleth: *Nods* That is correct, I will teach them everything I know about fighting as a unit & I'm not specifically talking about just their 4 men teams either. If they're gonna be Huntsmen, they have to know how to fight & adapt in every situation that they can.
Ozpin: I wholeheartedly agree, although I'm certain that it will prove to be quite difficult, so I wish you good luck when the time comes.
Glynda: These children will become the next protectors of the world in a few years' time & it is our duty to whip those kids into shape & bring out their potential. As you know, I'm completely against the idea of having a stranger we barely know about to watch over the ones who will become the next generation of Huntsmen & Huntresses… But this is what His Majesty desires, so for now, I shall bite my tongue & aid you in any way I can.
Before Byleth could respond, a newcomer comes to the scene. She's a young girl who looks around Ruby's age & height (if not younger!) with long & curly platinum-blond hair with a red tiara, her eyes are emerald green which are nicely matched up with a pair of glasses, same as Glynda. she wears a sky-blue shirt which has no sleeves & a white mini-skirt. She wears a pair of white elbow-high gloves, while wearing navy-blue tights with sky-blue knee-high heels. This is Gayelette Goodwitch, Glynda's 15-year-old daughter that was living in Atlas for a few years before moving to her mother's land.
Gayelette: Mother, I've come with a repo- OH! My sincerest apologies, am I interrupting an important meeting?
Glynda takes notice of her daughter's arrival & goes to greet her. Unlike her students, she's nowhere near as silent or stoic to her child, she's still strict & disciplinary towards her, but nowhere near on the level that she shows to her students. Byleth takes notice of the subtle change in character from Glynda & the similarities between her & Seteth are only made stronger.
Glynda: No, sweetheart. I'm in a middle of something, but it's not too important, is the report urgent?
Gayelette: No, it's nothing too urgent. I just came to report that the new supplies you've ordered are scheduled to arrive later this late afternoon.
Ozpin: I see… Well done, young Gayelette.
Gayelette: Thank you, Your Majesty. But more importantly, who is this?
Gayelette turns to Byleth who looks back at her & right of the bat, the resemblances with Flayn are IMPOSSIBLE to overlook. Young child on a school who isn't a student, a younger relative of one of the teachers of a school & is as pure & innocent as a newborn baby, all she needs left is the sass & love for fish food & Gayelette's good to go.
Byleth: Oh, that's right. This is the first time we met; my name is Byleth Eisner & I'm a new professor at Beacon Academy, it's a pleasure to meet you.
Gayelette: Oh, I understand. So you're the new professor that my Mother told me about; my name is Gayelette Goodwitch. I'm not a student here like the others, but I'm still training here to become a Huntress just like my Mother, I hope that we can get along.
Glynda can't help but smile seeing her daughter like that, especially since she didn't have anyone to call friends back in Atlas. While she doesn't trust Byleth (yet), something tells her that they will form a strong bond together, yet she's okay with that for some reason.
Ozpin: Now then, back to the matter at hand. The test will begin in about 2 hours, we will depart 30 minutes beforehand so that we can take a ship that heads straight to Emerald Valley. The test will last until sunset. It will be quite the dangerous test for these new Huntsmen in training, but I have faith that it will all go smoothly.
Byleth: About that, you already told me about the test itself yesterday, but what does Emerald Valley look like exactly?
Gayelette gets excited as she uses her scroll to show Byleth a holographic map of Emerald Valley while holding a teacher's stick.
Gayelette: Oh! Allow me to answer that question, Prof. Byleth. As you can see, Emerald Valley is a large area that almost takes all of the northern side of Vale. *Points at the forests of the map* We'll begin with Emerald Forest, which is a large forest around the south, lower north & east of the Valley, most of the forest covers the whole Valley, over 50% to be more precise. *Points at a beach coast on the west* On the west of the Valley there's a large beach coast aptly named Emerald Coast, where the sand is filled with small crystals & gems that reside in the seas & oceans of Vale, it's quite beautiful but unfortunately not recommended for vacations due to the Grimm that reside there. *Points at the center of the map* Then we have this small area on the center, which is where a small alter resides, it is there where the students will get the relics & form their teams, depending on the relics they chose, aptly named: The Emerald Alter. *Points at the northern mountains* Like I previously mentioned, the lower half of the north is simply more of Emerald Forest, but the upper half of the northern area of the valley are many peaks, hills & small mountains. Those with high mobility will benefit greatly because the area is filled with places for them to run & jump around at blitzing speeds & acrobatic abilities, this area is commonly known as Emerald Peaks. *Points at the north-end of the map* Once you pass through the hills, you'll find your next & final destination for the test: The Ruins of Emerald Castle. This is where the students must take the relics to succeed in The Trials of Emerald Valley.
As she finishes her little lesson, Gayelette puts her teacher's stick & scroll away to look back at Byleth.
Gayelette: Did you get all of that or is there something you didn't quite understand?
Byleth is impressed to say the least, Gayelette managed to answer her question so efficiently. She's definitely Glynda's daughter if she can pull of something like that.
Byleth: No, I'm alright. I believe I have understood everything I need to know, thank you.
Glynda: Yes, you've done a wonderful job. Thank you, Gayelette.
The small child just smiles earnestly as her Mother gives her head pats, both Ozpin & Byleth smile at what they're witnessing, they find it very adorable & wholesome.
Ozpin: Now then, I believe that is all. For now, why don't you go to the locker-rooms below & try to bond a little more with the students? After all, a team will only follow their leader if they have a strong bond with said leader.
Byleth: *Nods as she gets up* I will, thank you for your time, Your Majesty. Now then, if you could excuse me.
Byleth leaves the room as Ozpin receives another text message from Qrow, which gets him a little worried when he read about it. Which is something that both Goodwitches take notice of.
Gayelette: Your Majesty, is there something the matter?
Ozpin: I'm afraid so, it seems that our threat is greater than I have initially thought.
The scene then cuts to the Rose Xiao-Long sisters suiting up & getting ready to head off to their initiation test, with Ruby getting really excited to finally show off her skills.
Ruby: *Sighs in exhaustion* Finally, I get to stretch my legs & now, it's just gonna be me & my baby girl over here. Aw yeah, this is gonna be fun!
Yang just rolls her eyes as Ruby is hugging her "Baby Girl" again, her little sister is such a dork & Yang loves every second of it.
Yang: Ya'know Ruby, you're not the only one who'll go through this initiation. If you wanna grow up, you need to bond with new people & learn how to work together.
Ruby: *Groans in annoyance* You're starting sound like Dad~! Ok first of all: What does forming new bonds with people have to do with knowing how to fight? I can take care of myself! & Second: I don't need people to help me grow up, I drink milk!
Ruby says that last bit with confidence & even crosses her arms in an attempt to look cool, but Yang can't help but chuckle at her sister's attempt to look edgy.
Yang: Hahahah, yeah! That milk sure does wonders if you're still so small & tiny.
Ruby loses her confidence as she becomes flustered before talking back at Yang.
Ruby: Shut up! My height is average for my age, you're all just too tall!
Yang: *Looks away smirking* Yeah, averagely short for your age!
As Yang keeps needlessly teasing, Blake is by herself to the side tending to her weapons: Gambol Shroud. It is a pair of katanas that have a reverse edge, the hilts of the blade are similar to a small machine gun, which is Gambol Shroud's second function. It can pull the blades away for a moment so that Blake can rapidly fire dust bullets & high caliber bullets like a traditional machine gun. When Blake finishes tending to her blades, she sheathes them back & tightens her blood red bandana a little more. Once the bandana is well tied up, she takes her bamboo hat & puts it on before looking at herself in the mirror, she looks at her reflection as if she's seeing an enemy that she must cut down.
Blake: (Brother… Everyone… Watch over me.)
Blake then heads off to the doors & is about to leave the room, but not before crossing paths with Byleth once again.
Blake: Huh? Prof. Byleth, what are you doing here?
Byleth: I came to see how you kids are doing before the initiation, is that a problem?
Blake: *Shakes her head* No, not at all. I was just about to leave, please excuse me.
Before Blake leaves the room, Byleth stops her by holding an arm out on Blake's way.
Byleth: Actually, can we talk? If you don't mind, I'd like to get you know a little better first before you leave.
Blake looks back at Byleth while raising one of her eyebrows in curiosity, why would Byleth want to get to know her in this specific time? Blake hasn't even become a full student as of yet. But she decides to play along for the moment.
Blake: You want to learn more about me? Alright, I'll play along for the moment. Now then, where do you wanna start?
Byleth: I'll get straight to the point, why did you come here to become a Huntress? You don't strike me as someone who would come to a place like this without a goal of sorts.
Blake: The people of this world are too cowardly to make a change, so I decided to take upon myself to salvage what's left of this broken mess of a planet.
Byleth could tell that there was more to Blake than just wanting to create a just world, MUCH MORE! But she has to begin things slowly, one slip up & it's over.
Byleth: That's rather… Blunt, don't you think?
Blake just shrugs at Byleth's response, not caring about what she thinks.
Blake: Is there anything else you wanna ask me?
Byleth thinks of something to ask before speaking up.
Byleth: Would it be okay if I take a look at your weapons?
Blake thinks about it for a moment before unsheathing Gambol Shroud & giving it to Byleth, who takes them to have a closer look on them. The quality of this pair of blades is simply fantastic, she hasn't seen such a fine weapon in a very long time.
Byleth: Did you forged these yourself?
Blake: *Shakes her head* No, someone else did… An old friend.
Byleth: I see… They've done a good job.
Byleth says that before handing back Gambol Shroud to Blake.
Blake: Is that all?
Byleth thinks of something else before shaking her head.
Byleth: No, that's all. Thank you for your time.
Blake nods before leaving the locker room on her own, all the while Byleth's odd presence lingers in her mind.
Blake: (That's odd, why does she feel so… Different from the other Humans?)
Byleth goes to check on the lockers, only for a blond boy with white armor suddenly flying right past her & was pinned to a locker by a red javelin holding him up by his black hoodie.
Blond Boy: OW!
Byleth: OH MY GOD!
The owner of the javelin, who was a young woman with red hair & some bronze armor, goes to check on the boy & helps him get back up, with Byleth helping out as well.
Athlete Girl: I'm sorry~!
Pyrrha's "I'm sorry" counter: 1
Byleth: Are you okay?
Blond Boy: Y- yeah, I'm fine. Thank you miss-…
The Blond Boy suddenly stops talking as he takes a closer look at Byleth as he dusts himself off. He can't recognize this young woman, so she's likely someone new at Beacon.
Blond Boy: Oh, sorry. I don't believe we've ever met. I'm Jaune Arc, what's your name?
Byleth: My name is Byleth Eisner, I'm a new professor at Beacon Academy.
This catches Pyrrha's attention. After helping out Jaune, she then looks at Byleth.
Pyrrha: Ah, so you must be the new professor everyone was talking about? They weren't kidding when they said that you were beautiful… Oh! I'm sorry, where are my manners? My name is Pyrrha Nikos. It's so nice to meet you, Professor.
Pyrrha's "I'm sorry" counter: 2
Jaune: Ow~… Yeah, the feeling's mutual here.
Byleth nods at the 2 young teens with a gentle smile on her face, her first impressions on this pair were very interesting.
For Pyrrha, she reminded her a lot of Ingrid. That physique, her apparently incredible ability with a lance reminded her of the hard eating Pegasus Knight of House Galatea. Her attitude somewhat resembled Ingrid as well, minus the temper since Byleth doesn't seem to feel any constant atomicity from Pyrrha like she feels from Ingrid… Although in Ingrid's defense, her temper comes from Sylvain being a perverted ladies' man & from Felix being an edgy asshole. She can also feel some form of burden & pressure from Pyrrha, similar to Ingrid's burden of trying to help her family live on while also trying to fulfill her dream as a knight. It's kind of a shame she never recruited Ingrid in her class, she'd be super useful… Maybe she could've helped her keep Claude out of trouble.
Jaune on the other hand is a bit of a different story. She can't seem to find any traits from Jaune that reminds Byleth of one of her friends, at least not immediately. Maybe Caspar, just without the constant shouting & getting into fights. Actually, no! Byleth just thought about Ignatz for a moment when she looked at Jaune, their rather weak appearances, but also having great potential is simply astounding. Like Pyrrha, she can feel a lot of pressure from Jaune, almost as if he's forcing himself to forge this path of Huntsman out of obligation as oppose to forging this path because he wants to.
Jaune: So, I guess that we'll be your students if we pass today's test? I'm excited to learn anything from you, Professor.
Byleth: *Smiles at Jaune* My, someone's excited. But fair warning, relying too much on instinct like that will leave you to an early grave.
Jaune: *Sweats nervously* I- I see… Hahahahahah… Thanks for the advice, I'll take it to heart. Anyways, I'll be going now since I'm kinda in a hurry. Later Byleth, you too Pyrrha.
Jaune then walks off rather embarrassed from the events of the locker room, including not recognizing Pyrrha Nikos & getting launched by her like it was nothing. Pyrrha just looks at him leaving innocently as Byleth just sighs with a smile. It's like whenever Ignatz tried to hide his artistic skills from her, despite the fact that Byleth has no issue with Ignatz doing some painting every now & then.
Pyrrha: Well… That happened…
Byleth: Yeah, it did. So Pyrrha, care to tell me a bit about yourself?
Pyrrha: Huh? You mean that you don't know me? or rather- heard of me before?
Byleth: Should I?
Incredible! Byleth didn't recognize Pyrrha either?! Almost everyone in campus is going "Oh my god, it's Pyrrha Nikos! Look at her, the invincible girl, she's so awesome & gorgeous!" or anything along those lines. But Jaune at least recognized Pyrrha through a cereal commercial, Byleth doesn't even have THAT… Yet it pleases her, Pyrrha is so used to being seen as this powerful warrior, when in reality she just wants to be a normal girl like everyone else. So learning that Byleth seemingly didn't know a THING about her is a blessing in disguise… Then again, she recalled that tall guy with black hair & wearing green & his short gingerbread friend not recognizing her at first either, but Pyrrha's point still stands. Hearing this from afar, Weiss intervenes & tries to "lecture" Byleth on who Pyrrha is & how much of a big deal she really is, much to Pyrrha's dismay.
Weiss: *Huffs* First the blond buffoon & now you? You Valean Peasants are hopeless, how can anyone not recognize Pyrrha? The Pyrrha Nikos?! The invincible girl, the one who won 4 tournaments in the Kingdom of Mistral in a row & a former warlord of the Dynasty of Argus! Show her some respect & dignity, you peasant!
Pyrrha: Heheheh… Weiss, it's fine. Don't worry about it.
Weiss looks at Pyrrha confusingly, not knowing what she meant exactly.
Pyrrha: Just because I'm a famous fighter, doesn't mean everyone will know about me.
Weiss: But you're not just a famous fighter, you're the Pyrrha Nikos! You're among some of the most powerful Huntsmen & Huntresses in the world.
Pyrrha: *Laughs nervously* I assure you, I'm not that strong. Besides, there are others who could be just as skilled & powerful as me. Maybe even more, like those 2 over there.
Pyrrha: *Laughs nervously* I assure you, I'm not that strong. Besides, there are others who could be just as skilled & powerful as me, maybe even more. Like those 2 over there.
Pyrrha says that as she points at Ruby & Yang talking to each other from afar.
Weiss: What, them? *Scoffs* Yeah, right. What makes them so special?
Pyrrha: *Looks back at Weiss* Don't you know? They're the Daughters of Team STRQ.
The moment Weiss heard that, she was at a loss for words. Those 2 peasants that got in her way yesterday are the daughters of Team STRQ? Of the legendary Summer Rose?! But how?! There were no records about any members of that team having any children, could the higher ups of the world have tried to hide their identities from the public for some unknown reason? She doesn't know, but she's gonna find out!
Weiss: Wait, you mean those 2 are Team STRQ's daughters?! But how?!...
Pyrrha: *Raises a brow* What do you mean "how"? They share the last names with 2 of their members, it'd make sense for them to be their children… Although I wonder why it was never stated that they had any children… Oh well, I'm sure it's nothing important. *Looks at Ruby* That girl over there, Ruby Rose… I know a true Huntress when I see it.
Weiss looks at Ruby before looking back at Pyrrha with a doubtful look on her face.
Weiss: What, her? *Huffs* No way! She doesn't look even remotely competent.
While Weiss gives her horrible take on someone she doesn't know, Byleth chimes in & gives her a little reality check.
Byleth: If that's how you do first impressions, then you have a lot to work on.
Weiss is taken aback by someone suddenly saying that to her. She turns around to see a stoic, nonchalant Byleth looking down at her.
Weiss: What's that supposed to mean?!
Byleth: It means that you should stop acting like everyone's below you just because of your heritage! It's not about being famous or having royal blood in your veins!
Weiss: *Glares at Byleth* Quiet, you lowlife peasant! Don't act like you know me!
Byleth can't help but chuckle at Weiss' comment, causing her to get even madder.
Weiss: What's so funny?!
Byleth: Nothing, I just find what you just said very ironic… *Smirks* "Princess"
Weiss: I TOLD YOU TO NOT CALL ME THAT!
Weiss' sudden shouting caused the locker room to get quiet for a moment as it shocked everyone, not expecting someone to suddenly talk like that to a professor. Weiss then leaves the locker rooms without another word while Byleth shakes off her head, that level of stubbornness is exactly the same as Cyril's & how much of a bootlicker he is for Rhea despite how messed up their dynamic is from the surface.
Byleth sees nothing wrong with competition, Byleth loves to test herself against powerful warriors & have a good fight. But not at the expense of humility & when it turns people against one another at such toxic & hostile levels. This is a lesson Weiss clearly hasn't learned yet & Byleth will be damn sure that Weiss knows that she's not at the top like she thinks she is.
Byleth: *Sighs* If I get her in my class, training her will prove to be difficult.
Pyrrha: Oh, I'm sure you'll do a great job as a new teacher… Actually, Prof. Byleth… There's something I'd like to ask of you. You're most likely from outside of the boarders, correct? How is it like?
Byleth: *Looks back at Pyrrha* The outside world is cruel & devastating, yet it's beautiful & magical at the same time. I guess it just depends on how you look at life itself, cause my view on it is pretty simple.
Pyrrha: Oh yeah? & What's that?
Byleth: "Regardless if you're a commoner or a noble, everyone has a right to live & has a story that's worth telling". That's how I live my life, anyways.
Pyrrha's eyes widen from Byleth's words, not being able to remember meeting someone who thinks like that for a very long time. A small smile grows on Pyrrha's face as she feels a kind, almost motherly-like warmth begin to flow inside of her.
Pyrrha: I see, I guess I can understand that. Thank you, Prof. Byleth.
Byleth: Anytime, Pyrrha.
Pyrrha nods before leaving the lockers as well, Byleth decided to spend some time with the Rose Xiao-Long sisters while she was still there before they had to leave.
We then cut to around an hour later where Ozpin, Glynda, Byleth & Sothis are having a great view of Emerald Valley & now that the "sisters" are seeing it from up close, it's even bigger! This is a massive freaking Valley & it's no wonder the test goes from around midday to sunset, cause getting lost in a place like this looks pretty damn easy. All of the students are arriving at where the teachers are & are preparing themselves for the test.
Sothis: Woah, that place is massive! There's probably a lot of people who got lost & died in this place, are you sure that this is a good idea for an initiation test?
Ozpin: *Smirks* Honestly, no. I'm not, but that's what's fun & exciting about it. Besides, here at Beacon, we train our students to be the best of the best.
Sothis then looks at Ozpin with a deadpanned expression on her face.
Sothis: You're one sadistic monster!
Ozpin: Yeah, I know.
Byleth isn't pleased with this either, something tells her that Claude would definitely do a test like this if he was ever a teacher of sorts. The mere thought of Claude teaching a class makes Byleth feel a shiver down her spine, there'd be chemical catastrophe from all the poison brewing Claude is infamous for doing. She can only hope that the students that Byleth has met so far make it out, especially the Rose Xiao-Long sisters.
Byleth: So, you're saying that we can't intervene in this test no matter what? Despite the massive mortality rate in that Valley?
Ozpin: Correct, Ms. Eisner.
Byleth: Yup, I'm with Sothis on this one. You're crazy!
As much as Glynda would want to mouth both of the sisters for talking to Ozpin like that, she knew that they were both right. Glynda herself is also not a fan of how Ozpin runs his initiation tests & how NOT beginner friendly they are.
Ozpin: Hey! If it works, it works! & By the looks of it, the candidates are already arriving.
The people who will participate in this test have finally arrived, Byleth looks at the Rose Xiao-Long sisters, quietly wishing them good luck.
Glynda: Good morning, children. Now we are well aware that you were thinking on how the teambuilding will go, those questions shall be answered now! Here at Emerald Valley, you will traverse into a massive labyrinth-like area where you need to arrive at The Emerald Alter where the relics are resting. There are a total of 20 relics, 5 sets for each type of relic, totaling a total of 4 relics of the same time. Since teams are made out of 4 people, that will mean that the 4 people who share the same relic will form a team. But as you all could probably figure out, that is not how it will end. While the first step is to traverse through the Valley & survive the danger that resides there, the second step is finding the Alter, the third & final step will be to head on north of the Valley & pass through the Emerald Hills, where the test will truly end… At the Ruins of Emerald Castle, take your respective relics to that destination before sunset & you pass. Any questions?
Ruby: *Raises her hand* I do, Ma'am! if that's how teams are formed, then how are partners formed? Do we simply choose who will be our partner, or is it random?
Glynda: Good question, young girl. Allow me to answer that, the way you form partners is rather simple really. The first person who you make eye contact with will be your partner for the next 4 years here at Beacon Academy.
That answer shattered most of the students (both figuratively & ESPECIALLY literally), Ruby is by far the most baffled by that answer since her plans of partnering up with Yang are now very low. Byleth & Sothis were right, this partner system is redundant as hell. Whoever thought this was a good idea must've been drunk or something.
Ruby: WHAT?!
Weiss: Do you people have any idea how much trouble a system like that causes?!
Ozpin: *Smirks* Oh, we do know how trouble it causes, but that's what makes it so much fun!... So, any more questions?
Jaune tries to raise his hand & say something, but Ozpin just cuts him off immediately.
Ozpin: Good! Let us begin! & Remember to always stay very vigilant & cautious to your surroundings, especially with the Grimm of this forest. If you're either too arrogant or leave too many openings, you will die. Now then, each of you will step towards those pressure plates over there to begin the test, good luck to you all.
As the students begin stepping towards these pressure plates that are placed on the ground, the students from the far left are beginning to get launched one by one. This is just insane; Ozpin literally SHOOTS his students to begin his initiation tests?! If Byleth & Sothis didn't think Ozpin couldn't be any CRAZIER, they were proven wrong. Nothing that Rhea put them & the Golden Deer through even comes CLOSE to this!... Actually, scratch that. She gave them pretty tough missions against an evil cult all the time & were teaching many teens how to become war criminals, but this right here is STILL insane!
Blake, Weiss, the boy in green & the gingerbread girl have already been launched, Yang puts on some shades & giving Ruby a good luck wink before she was launched as well. Understandably so, Jaune is very concerned about this decision as he tries to question Ozpin about it.
Jaune: Uh~… Headmaster Ozpin, how are we gonna land without parachutes?
Ozpin: That's the neat thing, you won't!... You'll all be using your own landing strategies.
Jaune: Uh, right! But what's a landing strateg- YYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY~
Jaune was the final one launched by the pressure plates as he's launched while screaming out of his lungs, Byleth & Sothis slowly turn to face the oh so chill Headmaster watching all of this while drinking his coffee before they finally have a chance to say anything.
Byleth & Sothis: ARE YOU FUCKING INSANE?!
Ozpin: Okay, Eisner Sisters. Rule #1 of Beacon Academy: Teachers aren't allowed to use profanity, we're here to set an example to the young ones here after all. But to answer your question: YES! I am insane, but I'm also aware that I cannot be soft on them. If they want to survive & become great Huntsmen & Huntresses, they will need to adapt & fast! The World of Remnant is a cruel, merciless place. There is no fooling around in this world.
Sothis: Even so, you could have at least have done something more beginner friendly. Especially how you literally launch these children without so much as a warning! What's next, you're gonna pushed them off a flying plane in their graduation ceremony?
Ozpin looks to the side with a smirk, being quite fond of Sothis' idea.
Ozpin: Ya'know Young Sothis, that's not such a bad idea.
Sothis looks dumbfounded when she hears that, while Byleth just looks back at Sothis with a very disappointed & upset expression on her face.
Byleth: Nice going, "Genius". Do you have any other ideas that you would like to share?
Glynda: If you trio of crazy idiots are done shouting & thinking of ridiculous nonsense that would get us lawsuits, we have a bunch of children to watch over via our monitors. Even though we can't interfere with their test in person, we must still watch over them & grade their performances. We can continue this conversation after this test… *Glares at Ozpin* & NO PUSHING STUDENTS OFF A FLYING PLANE ON GRADUATION!
Ozpin: Ah~, come on~!
As Glynda says that to Ozpin & turns on her respective monitor along with Ozpin & Byleth, we begin the test by watching from the perspectives of one of the many contestants going through Emerald Valley, as the test finally begins.
[Music: Azure Blue World from Sonic Adventure]
Ruby dives down as she uses her acrobatics to land on the small hills below, she looks down & sees that the area she landed was The Emerald Coast, a giant beach coast with beautiful greenery that unfortunately cannot become a vacation spot because of the Grimm. But Ruby doesn't care, she's here to fully become a Huntress in training of Beacon Academy & have the time of her life while doing it!
Ruby: Heh, so my first phase of the test is to pass through this coast? Yosha! Ikouze!
Ruby starts running through Emerald Coast at high speeds with a confident smile on her face, she dashes through the beautiful sand, jumps from platform to platform like she's doing parkour & even run in the walls while doing many incredible acrobatic feats at top speed. This is the kind of stuff that Ruby lives for, running through an open field without a care in the world. No distractions, no rules, nobody to tell her what to do, nothing! Just Ruby, her precious Crescent Rose, this wonderful coast & whatever unlucky Grimm that would stand in her way.
Such as the case of a flock of small Nevermores that spotted Ruby & started firing their feathers at her, but Ruby is too fast for them, so while she's easily dodging the firing feathers, she readied Crescent Rose & began firing at the small Nevermores, one by one. Not only is Ruby a speed demon & a powerful scythe wielder, she's also an incredible sharpshooter that can arguably go toe to toe with Leonie or maybe even Claude when firing enemies from afar is involved. After finishing the flock of small Nevermores off, Ruby passes through the hills & small caverns of Emerald Coast while still running in high speeds until she spots a medium-sized King Taijitu from afar heading towards her direction. So in response, Ruby transforms Crescent Rose into its scythe form, dashes towards the Taijitu & slashes it in half, cutting down the 2-headed snake Grimm like a butterknife. The blade of Crescent Rose is forged from one of the greatest ores in all of Remnant, one that can not only forge weapons durable enough to last many generations (assuming it's well tended to), but also cut through many durable boulders & the most durable of the Creatures of Grimm like it's nothing.
As Ruby is about to leave Emerald Coast & head east to Emerald Forest, a small pack of Beowolves spot her & begin chasing after her as Ruby's starting to enter the woods of Emerald Forest. Before one of the Beowolves managed to pounce her from behind, she jumps out of the way & lands on top of the Beowolf that just tried to pounce her. She looks at a few of the Beowolves that are following behind & taunts them by sticking her tongue out & placing her hand on her nose while moving her fingers. As if she's silently telling them that they have a large nose, one of the Beowolves gets pissed at this & try to pounce Ruby again, only for her to get out of the way & have the Beowolf pounce at the Beowolf Ruby was on top of earlier, making them crash & fall. Ruby then lands on top of another Beowolf, places her scythe blade under its large neck & fires her rifle, beheading the dark beast. While on the air, she lands on one of the trees & uses that tree to launch herself from tree to tree while cutting down the remaining Beowolves with relative ease. She pulls back Crescent Rose as she stretches herself for a moment.
[Music End]
Ruby: *Takes a deep breath* What a great warm up section, now that's how you begin your Huntress training! Now then, I'm off to go & find Yang as quickly as possible. If we don't become partners & be a part of the same team, I'm done for!
Ruby finishes her warm up as she dashes through the forest in hopes of finding her older sister & forming a team with her, but unfortunately her efforts are halted when she hears some Dust attacks being fired not too far from her location & always one to follow her instincts (As much as she hates that sometimes), Ruby goes to see what's going on & when she arrives at her destination, she's rather impressed. She finds Weiss Schnee battling a few Ursai with great fencing skills & incredible use of her Semblance of Glyphs: The Bloodline Semblance of the Schnee Family. As Weiss was finishing off the last few remaining Ursai however, an Ursa Major appears from behind the bushes & is ready to pounce her from behind. Luckily for Weiss, Ruby pounces at the Ursa Major herself as she places her scythe blade below her jaw & beheads her once she fires her rifle. Now on ONE hand, Ruby was able to give someone a hand & theoretically find her partner; but on the OTHER hand, that partner she found was Weiss instead of Yang. Neither side was pleased at seeing one another at that moment since now they're officially partners.
Ruby: *Sighs in frustration* (Great, just great!... Now I'll never be able to find & team up with Yang… & It just had to be the spoiled Atlesian brat too, fantastic!)
Weiss wanted to say something, but decided to stay quiet as she leaves the area. With Ruby following suit since they're now a team, as much as it displeased them both. Weiss turns back when she hears the reaper following her, very annoyed by the fact that she's stuck with her as her Partner instead of Pyrrha.
Weiss: Why are you following me?
Ruby: Isn't it obvious? Since we just made eye contact, that means we're partners… As much as I know that neither of us wants that to be the case…
Weiss: *Sighs* Well, I don't want to get disqualified on the off chance the Headmaster sees that I went against one of the core rules, so I'll hold my tongue for now.
Ruby knew that this was gonna be difficult, especially given their first meeting yesterday. But Ruby is gonna try to let bygones be bygones & form a stable partnership with Weiss.
Ruby: Okay then, now I know that we didn't have a very good start yesterday; but how about we try to patch things up & start over?
Weiss thinks for a moment as she stops walking, it's better to just try & make amends with Ruby if she's gonna be stuck with her & hey! Maybe this won't be so bad after all… If only the girls knew the hell that was awaiting them both.
Weiss: Very well, I'll play along. Let us begin with a more proper introduction, shall we? *Turns to face Ruby* My name is Weiss Schnee, I am the Heiress of the S.D.C. & The second granddaughter of the late Nicholas Schnee II.
Ruby: Alright, it's nice to properly meet you. I'm Ruby, Ruby Rose!
Weiss: *Raises an eyebrow* What? No background or anything of the sorts?
Ruby: Nah~! I'm not usually one to waste my time on that stuff, I'm the kind of person who just goes straight to the point.
Weiss: "Straight to the point"? Very well, I can respect that. Who knows? Maybe if we get through this test, we could hang out some time? Paint our nails, braid each other's hair & talk about cute boys… Or girls, if that's your thing. I'm not that judgmental.
Ruby kinda knew that Weiss was being a little sarcastic back there. So instead of falling for it, she decides to fight back herself.
Ruby: I appreciate the offer, but I'll have to pass. Painting nails isn't my style & my hair is too short & spiky to do any good braids anyways. Besides, talking about "cute boys & girls" isn't really my thing, I don't do romance.
Weiss looks at Ruby rather shocked. Not really because Ruby didn't fell for her sarcasm, but because Ruby pretty much admits that doing stuff girls normally do isn't her thing. Although in Weiss' defense, she probably never met any tomboys back in Atlas.
Weiss: Oh! I see, so what do you like to do in your spare time?
This time, Weiss wasn't being sarcastic & Ruby could tell. Okay, this is going surprisingly well & if it keeps going like this, they could pretty much become good friends.
Ruby: Well for starters, I-
Before Ruby could even start, they hear Grimm growling from close by. They look around & spot a pack of Beowolves coming from some trees & bushes from afar, they look back & spot more Beowolves coming from behind, completely surrounding both of the girls. Ruby looks rather upset as her rather friendly chat with her partner just got interrupted.
Ruby: Well, nice to be so rudely interrupted! Fine, you guys want a fight? Ya just got one!
Weiss turns to Ruby & tries to stop her as she gets Crescent Rose ready.
Weiss: Ruby, wait-!
Ruby didn't listen to a word Weiss said as charged at the Beowolf pack from behind as she starts fighting them. But instead of just killing them quick & efficiently since Weiss is aware that Ruby could easily do that, Ruby appears to be just toying with the Beowolves & not taking the fight very seriously, which displeases the Heiress greatly as she draws her rapier: Myrtenaster & gets into her fighting stance.
Weiss: (Honestly, why did I expect it to go any different?) *Takes a deep breath* (Alright Weiss, remember your training. Straight posture, relaxed shoulders, right foot on the back, left foot on the front, tight grip on your blade… & Then…)
Weiss pulls back her left arm as Myrtenaster's blade starts emitting a red glow & a giant snowflake emblem comes behind Weiss, she then charges at one of the Beowolves with the intent to strike them down with a powerful Fire Dust Thrust.
Weiss: (ATTACK!)
Unfortunately, Weiss doesn't get her chance to shine as Ruby suddenly appears in front of her & cuts the Beowolf in half from its left shoulder to its right hip. This shocks Weiss enough to make her slip up & point her rapier at another direction, firing Fire Dust at a tree that starts burning until it eventually falls in between the girls. Before Weiss could respond, she's suddenly grabbed by the Weiss & carried away to a higher ground by Ruby. Once she lets her go, Weiss takes a look at the scene & sees that they just started a small forest fire. Weiss clearly isn't happy with Ruby for what just happened.
Weiss: What were you thinking?! Appearing out of nowhere just like that made me get distracted & lose focus!
Ruby then glares back at Weiss, who's just as upset.
Ruby: What were you thinking about standing around doing nothing like that just now?! Why didn't you just attack them while I was dealing with the ones behind us?!
Weiss: Unlike you, I have to wait for the perfect chance for a fast & precise attack that will strike my enemy down quickly! I can't run around the place at high speeds like you!
Ruby just rolls her eyes as she reaches for something from her small hip pouch, of course Weiss' excuse was gonna be something like that! But she didn't try to argue further as she takes out a few Water Dust crystals from her hip pouch, making Weiss confused.
Weiss: What do you plan to do now?!
Ruby: What else, genius?! Take out this fire before it spreads even further!
Before Weiss could call Ruby out for speaking to her that way, she throws a few Water Dust Crystals & uses her sniper to shoot at them. One by one, the Water Dust Crystals break apart & become large splashes of water that are used to take out the fire. It takes a little while, but the forest fire is dealt with before it became a really serious issue. The both of them then get back down once the fire died out, with Weiss still very upset.
Weiss: Now then, back on topic. *Turns to face Ruby* Can you explain to me why you got in my way like that when I could've clearly taken care of myself back there?!
Ruby: Oh sure~, I'm gonna let some know-it-all just stand around & take her sweet time being surrounded by Grimm who want to slash her head off! Unlike you, I was actually taking care of those Beowolves just fine! I know that not everybody is as fast as me, but this is just ridiculous!
Weiss: If by "taking care of them", you mean screwing around with them like a braindead oaf for no reason instead of taken them out with actual efficiency?!
Ruby: I knew I could've handled them on my own, so I was distracting them so that you could take care of the ones from the front. But if my "interruption" was anything to go by, it's clear that I was proven wrong since you just stood around doing jack!
Weiss: Ok, that's it!
Ruby & Weiss keep arguing as they both keep walking together to a random direction, hopefully to find the Altar & get their relics as soon as possible.
However, things only keep getting interesting as we cut to Yang's perspective going through Emerald Forest, more specifically the northeastern area of the Forest. Yang is just minding her own business while trying to find Ruby, but with little luck. She then hears some rustling bushes from her left, she goes over there to take a look.
Yang: Hey Ruby, ya there?
Yang gets her answer by hearing a Grimm growling at her, she looks up & sees 2 Ursai Majors getting up & glaring at her with their shiny red eyes.
Yang: Nope!
[Music: Fódlan Winds from Fire Emblem Three Houses]
Yang backflips away to dodge the incoming attack of one of the Ursai's attack as she prepares her gauntlets: Ember Celica to fight & defeat these Grimm. One of the Ursai charges at Yang, with Yang following suit as they hold each other's shoulders & begin to push one another away, like a wrestling match of sorts. The other Ursa tries to attack Yang from behind, but she narrowly ducks the incoming slash that hits the Ursai Yang was wrestling with. Yang then grabs the leg of said Wrestling Ursa & throws it to the side alongside the other Ursa, making them crash against some trees as Yang then starts air-punching at their direction. Ember Celica also doubles as a shotgun that Yang can fire whenever she punches something while holding down the trigger of her gauntlets, she fires a couple of Fire Dust rounds at the Ursai which take damage, but one of them try to strike Yang again, but she narrowly dodges again & punches the Ursa right at its jaw & sends it flying to another tree. While the other Ursa tries to sneak-attack Yang from behind, only for Yang to backhand the Ursa in the face without even looking at it & ducks down to land a low sweep, making the Ursa trip & fall. When both Ursai get up & try to attack Yang from both sides, only to Yang get into a stance & cross her arms in a defensive position; once both Ursai get close enough, Yang's eyes suddenly turn red for a split second; giving her a power boost fire off powerful Aura shockwave that sends both Ursai flying away at high speeds & crashing into the trees. Yang then takes a deep breath as she sees the very tired Ursai Majors slowly get up.
Yang: Come on, did you guys had to be so rough? You could've just said n-
As Yang keeps toying the Ursai Major, she spots a few flocks of golden hair on the ground, HER flocks of golden hair. Both Ursai feel a huge shiver down their spine as Yang's hair suddenly starts flying up a little & burning hot (literally), while Yang's eyes turn from her soft lilac color into a hot, burning red. Her Semblance: Burn has just activated, full power.
Yang: You… YOU MOTHERFUCKERS!
Yang explodes in anger as her Aura bursts out, she charges into one of the Ursai Majors & starts walling on it with a volley of punches until she punches the Ursa Major in the face so hard that their head literally explodes. The other Ursa Major tries to sneak-attack Yang from behind; but instead of dodging it, she turns back & uses her right arm to block & parry the incoming attack. Yang then throws a hook at the Ursa Major's torso with so much force that her hand passes through & leaves a giant hole in the Ursa's chest. Yang then pulls back her left arm & envelops her right hand with Aura, slamming her palm right at the Ursa Major's face & send an Aura shockwave so powerful that almost the entire upper-half of the Ursa explodes, killing it instantly. Yang takes a deep breath as she deactivates her Semblance, with her lilac eyes coming back in the process.
[Music end]
Yang: *Sighs* Nobody gets the right to cut my hair other than Mom, remember that…
Before Yang leaves the area, she hears footsteps fast approaching at her direction. She turns around & blocks an incoming katana that was meant to slice her throat, she looks at the culprit: Blake; who glares at Yang with those sharp amber eyes.
Blake: *Smirks* Not bad, your timing was pretty good back there.
Yang: *Smirks* My Dad's an awesome teacher.
Blake then pulls back from Yang as she sheathes her katana back & adjusts her battle kimono a little bit, with Yang dusting herself off a little as well.
Blake: Now then, shall we get going?
Yang: After you, "Partner".
Unlike the case with the Ice Flower duo, Yang & Blake were quick to accept one another as partners. Yang liked the quiet & mysterious, yet feisty nature of the young ronin; while Blake witnessed some phenomenal fighting skills from Yang just now, even when she lost her temper for a brief moment. But also, Blake kinda saw "her" through Yang. That spunky & carefree attitude, while having the strength to fight back, they were so alike.
Yang: So~, you're a swordswoman, right? What sword style do you use?
Blake: 2-sword style, I wield a pair of katanas & I fight from the shadows awaiting the perfect chance to strike my enemy down.
Yang: Oh, so you're like a rogue or an assassin from an RPG. That's cool, I don't see most of those very often back in Patch or around here in Vale.
Blake stops walking & turns to face Yang, while keeping her cold, stoic expression.
Blake: When you're born & raised in the wilderness & do not without the luxury to be protected by the boarders of the Kingdoms, you have to work with what you have.
Yang: Oh, I see. I guess that makes sense, it explains how you managed to catch me off guard like that.
Blake: *Smirks* I'll admit that it wasn't easy, you didn't give me any openings. You said that your Father is an "awesome teacher", right?
Yang: Yeah, I did. His name is TaiYang Xiao-Long, he was the one who thought me martial arts. He also taught me to never let my guard down, since there could always be someone out there to attack me in an underhanded way.
Blake: I see, that certainly explains a lot. As for me, I was self-taught. I've trained in the ways of the sword even before I could write my own name.
Yang is taken aback by this. She knew that those outside of the Kingdoms' boarders have to adapt & learn how to fend themselves quicker than those who live within the boarders, but not this early.
Yang: Woah, seriously?! It's not often that I meet someone who's self-taught. Didn't you have any parents or guardians back then? Cause if so, why not ask them?
Blake: I do have parents; they live in an island southeast of Anima, where they're safe. But neither of them were fighters like me, so they couldn't teach me anything in terms of combat. I did have someone else, but-… He was killed 5 years ago.
Yang: *Widens her eyes in horror* Killed?! That's horrible, I'm sorry about your loss…
Blake: It's alright, I've made peace with it long ago…
Yang: I'm sorry for asking this, but-… Who killed him? Was it the Grimm or a person?
Blake clenches her fists a little as she lowers her head & closes her eyes, not wanting to remember of those events.
Blake: A person, an Atlesian Military Commander to be specific. I've never met her in person, so I'm mostly going by secondhand information, but it's all I got… Listen, I'm glad to have you as my partner, but I don't think that we should stay like this for very long. I'm seeking vengeance for a fallen comrade; I don't want to get anyone else involved.
Yang: Revenge, huh...? Blake, I know that look in your eyes, it's filled with grief & sorrow. I've lost my own Mom because of a mission that she never came back from, I was 8 years old when she left, so I know the pain of losing someone you love & care about… But… Is revenge really the only way, Blake?
Blake stops clenching her fists as she takes a deep breath. She can't quite explain, but Yang's words have impacted her a little bit. She then looks back at her partner.
Blake: Look, just… Forget what I just said, alright? I was just being foolish.
Yang: Alright, if you say so…
The Bumblebee duo begin traversing Emerald Forest once again, with Yang keeping a close eye on Blake, her doting & caring senses are starting to tingle a little bit.
The 3 teachers & Sothis watch over their monitors to see the forming partnerships. Byleth & Sothis were watching Pyrrha helping Jaune get down from a tree since she saved the guy from an early demise by firing her javelin & hanging him on a tree, Glynda was watching the ninja boy in green getting booped in the nose by the gingerbread girl that was hanging upside down of a tree & Ozpin was watching Ruby & Weiss taking down a few more Grimm; but although they fight well, their teamwork is anything but as they appear to be arguing (again). Glynda is the first one to report her analysis.
Glynda: That's the final partnership formed, Your Majesty; Lie Ren & Nora Valkyrie. According to their reports, they were orphans from Mistral & were childhood friends that traveled together since they were very little. Having a previously established bond will give their team dynamic quite the advantage, something that unfortunately wasn't the case for Ms. Rose & Ms. Xiao-Long.
Sothis: Yeah, despite the fact that they were launched right next to one another, they landed in completely different places… *Scratches her head* How does that even work?
Glynda: Regardless, it has made evidently clear that Ms. Xiao-Long has proven herself as a spectacular fighter, taking on 2 Ursai Majors like that is no easy feat. As for Ms. Rose, who knew that someone so young could be so-…
Byleth: "Scary powerful"?
Glynda: Y- yes! Earlier at Emerald Coast, she was able to effortlessly cut down all of those Grimm like it was nothing & yet-… She didn't show that side of hers like the she did back in that Grimm invasion in Patch a few days ago; in the case of the ones in Emerald Coast, she was just toying with them!... Your Majesty, your thoughts?
Ozpin doesn't say anything as he's too focused on watching Ruby & Weiss walking through the woods not batting an eye at one another, clearly not wanting anything to do with each other. Glynda then looks back at Byleth who just shrugs in response.
Speaking of the Ice Flower duo, we cut back to them walking through Emerald Forest without wanting anything to do with each other. Weiss is very stubborn into thinking that she knows where they're going despite the fact that they're clearly lost, while Ruby is just rolling her eyes at her annoying rambling. Ruby has already tried climbing on top of the trees to see if she can find the Alter from a higher view, but none of the trees are tall enough to give her the high view that she needs.
Weiss: Let's see, it's this way!... No, it's that way!... No, it's the other w-
Ruby: *Sighs in frustration* Oh, for crying out loud, will you just admit that you have no idea where you're going & admit that we're lost?!
Weiss: Hey, at least I'm trying! I don't see you doing anything!
Ruby: Well excuse me, "Princess"! But none of the trees around us are tall enough for me to get a high enough view, so I can't spot the Alter from high up like I wanted to!
Weiss: I told you not to call me that, you little brat!
Ruby: Oh, look who's talking! You've been acting exactly like the spoiled rich brat that you are this whole time! We wouldn't be in this situation if you didn't slip up & started that forest fire half an hour ago; said forest fire that I had to put out, by the way!
Weiss: ME?! You were the bloody oaf who went charging without warning to cut down those Beowolves, it's your fault that we're getting nowhere!
Ruby: ARE YOU CRAZY?! I was doing just fine on my own, you were the one who was standing around doing jack while you were surrounding by a bunch of deadly monsters that were just about to kill you!
Weiss: Coming from the dolt who keeps toying with these "Deadly monsters", I'm glad to be out here risking my life while this hyperactive little girl who's with me just keeps screwing around & not take anything seriously!
Ruby: Well newsflash, idiot! I'm "toying" with them a lot better than you are, cause I'm actually killing them & fighting back instead of just standing around like you! Unlike you, I actually take action when that chance is given to me!
Weiss: Don't call me an idiot, you pest!
Ruby: Okay, then how about "NARCISSISTIC JERK"?!
Weiss: HOW DARE YOU CALL ME THAT?!
Ruby: Because that's exactly what you are! Unlike you, I actually earned this chance to become a Huntress. I'm not gonna let some Atlesian rich girl talk down to me & act like she's perfect in every way & that she's better than everyone around her!
Weiss: You didn't "earn" ANYTHING! You only got here because of sheer dumb luck that you're the child of this supposed "Great Huntress" that nobody cares about anymore!
That last bit made Ruby suddenly back away a little as her eyes widen, Weiss wonders why Ruby suddenly stopped talking for a brief moment before she realized that she just badmouthed Ruby's supposably deceased Mother. Before Weiss could say anything else, she's suddenly hit with immense speed in the face by a very pissed off Ruby, to the point where it even leaves a red mark on Weiss' cheek. The moment Weiss was about to shout at the reaper for even daring to lay a finger on her like that, she stops as she sees the cold, furious glare that Ruby was giving her while having tears forming in her eyes. Ruby then goes to Weiss, grabs her by the collar of her cape & brings her up at eye level.
Ruby: What could you know about my Mom?!... I CAN BARELY REMEMBER HER FACE BEFORE SHE LEFT ME & NEVER CAME BACK HOME LIKE SHE PROMISED! What I do know is that she never backed down from a fight & always did what's right! Even if it is true that nobody cares about her anymore, that doesn't give you the right to badmouth the dead like that! Especially in the face of those who loved & cared about them!
At that moment, Weiss has realized that she fucked up… Like- she really fucked up just now! Whatever possible healthy partnership that could've formed if they just settled down for a moment was immediately thrown off the window at this point, Ruby tried to be patience with Weiss & tried to make an effort to make amends despite their rocky start, but no more. Before Weiss could even snap back to reality, Ruby pushes her back inro the ground, turns back & starts walking away, leaving Weiss to fend off for herself.
Ruby: Go find the Altar on your own, I'm done with you!...
Weiss: Ruby, wait-
Without another word, Ruby leaves the scene & heads off to somewhere else to cool off for a bit while leaving a few rose petals due to the fact that she used her Semblance to leave quicker. Weiss looks on in shock as she was just ditched out just like that, she then looks down & thinks a bit about what Ruby just said; she was kinda aware that Summer Rose is supposably dead since the World of Remnant made a big deal about it almost 10 years ago, but to hear that her own child's feelings about it made evidently clear that Summer Rose was more than just a supposed "Great & Powerful Huntress" that was revered in the last generation. Weiss is now on her own, reflecting on some things a little.
Back to Ruby, she finally stops running & jumping from tree to tree after her little burst-out from earlier. She finds a good tree branch to lay on & starts wiping out some tears of anger & sadness that were forming in her eyes.
Ruby: (Blast it all! Why did I lose my temper like that?! Why is it so hard to keep these bottled-up emotions in check?! Why did I let some random girl upset me like that?!...) *Sighs in frustration* (Whatever, I'm very far away from that narcissistic jerk right now & I can sure as heck find that Altar just fine on my own!)
Before Ruby gets up, she feels her Aura flicker for a moment. She drained her Aura quite a bit during this last hour or so, especially in that little burst-out that she just made. She then thinks that restoring some of her strength might be a smarter move.
Ruby: (But first, I need a little break. Hopefully I won't be having any nightmares because of all of this stress…)
Ruby takes another deep breath as pulls her hoodie on, close her eyes & slowly drifts herself to sleep, her Aura flickers a little as it slowly starts to recharge it back to full.
The teachers witnessed everything that just occurred between Ruby & Weiss as Byleth shows her concern for a moment, while Glynda is anything but pleased from these events.
Glynda: Tch, how disgraceful… Ms. Rose got too upset & let her emotions get the better of her, striking down your own partner in such a way as well! I knew that allowing her to come here was a mistake, now look what just happened!
Byleth: Hey, Your Majesty… Are you sure this is alright? They're probably not gonna go back to each other after this, I just hope that Ruby will be alright soon…
Glynda: She certainly won't be alright after this is all over, she just broke the rules of the test & ditched her partner without a second thought!... Such actions are inexcusable!
Neither of the Eisner "sisters" liked what Glynda means by what she just said, she's thinking of disqualifying Ruby for being completely justified in ditching someone who just badmouthed her "dead" Mother, with Sothis being the very vocal about this.
Sothis: Oh, hell no! You're not gonna disqualify her for what just happened, that spoiled rich brat just talked crap about the kid's Mother, who's dead!
Glynda: Irrelevant! That's no excuse for striking at her own partner, throwing a fit & leaving her just like that! If she can't keep her stronger emotions in check, then she has no place here at Beacon Academy! We only accept the best of the best here & this is no place for small children throwing temper tantrums!
Byleth has had enough of Glynda's extreme "always by the books" attitude & draws out her weapon: The Sword of the Creator. She's not gonna let this stand any longer, Sothis on the other hand looks scared at Byleth for a moment since when Byleth gets this angry, it's game over for anyone who stands in her way.
Byleth: Tch!... Just when I was starting to take a liking to you… After I saw a softer side of yours earlier this morning, you say something like that?! How about I teach you some humility & empathy towards your own students?!
Glynda bites back as she draws her riding crop: The Disciplinarian to confront Byleth, Sothis is getting more & more horrified on the 2 wanting to pick a fight in a place like this, when Grimm could come at any moment because of all of this negativity.
Glynda: Hah! I'd like to see you try, little girl! A random mercenary from the woods like yourself stands no chance against The Mage General of V-
Ozpin: THAT IS ENOUGH! OUT OF ALL OF YOU!
All 3 of them look at a very angered Ozpin as they hear him yelling at them, making them stop whatever fight Glynda & Byleth were about to start. Glynda gets a little scared of her Headmaster since it's very rare that he'd lose his temper over something, but when it happens, it's deadly. Byleth also didn't expect such an outburst from Ozpin, making her back away from him a little bit.
Glynda: But Headmaster Ozpin, Ms. Rose just broke one of the fundamental rules of the initiation test, we can't let that-
Ozpin: I do not care whether or not she broke the rules! I'm the one who gets to decide whoever gets to stay in Beacon Academy or not! I will not have either of you cause a scene at a time like this or disqualify anyone without my consent, understood?!
Glynda: *Gulps in fear* Y- yes, Your Majesty… My apologies…
Byleth: *Sighs* I'm sorry, too. I'm not one who loses my temper just like that… So what will you do now?
Ozpin: *Takes a deep breath* It is clear that Ms. Rose needs some time for herself, with the same applying to Ms. Schnee. I say we let those 2 have some time for themselves & reflect a bit before continuing their test, any objections?
Byleth: I have no objections. In fact, I completely agree that they need some time for themselves right now…
Glynda: *Sighs* I'll support your decisions as much as possible, Headmaster Ozpin. So despite my personal thoughts on the matter, I will leave Ms. Rose be.
Ozpin: Good. They still have approximately 3 more hours before sunset, that should be more than enough time… All I hope is that things do not get any worse from here…
Byleth looks back at her own monitor, watching a very upset Ruby trying to get some rest. The Ashen Demon cannot help but worry about the young reaper, all that she can hope now is that she calms down in time & tries to make things up with Weiss, as much as Byleth would rather have Ruby go on & find the Altar by herself. As for the other 3 duos, they're doing surprisingly well. Ren & Nora are already a good duo since they were childhood friends, which gives them an advantage. Jaune & Pyrrha are not having too much trouble either & appear to have formed a nice bond with one another, while Yang & Blake are just chatting… Well- it's mostly Yang trying to get into a conversation with Blake, Byleth can't help but see the similarities between those 2 with Catherine & Shamir & how their dynamic is. Weiss is still sitting on her own, reflecting on what she's done as of late & Ruby is trying to restore her strength a little bit… Little did these 8 future Huntsmen in training would have a lot more trouble in a short matter of time.
The initiation test at Emerald Valley has begun & things are going very rough for some people, especially Ruby & Weiss. Byleth & Sothis can only watch & worry about what's about to come, hoping that all goes well. Will Ruby & Weiss make up & try to patch things up? Or will they stay divided & try to find the Altar by themselves? Will Yang be able to break Blake's shell & make her a little more vocal? Who is this "Fallen Comrade" that Blake is seeking vengeance for & who is this "Atlesian Military Commander" that took his life? Will any of them be able to pass the test to begin with? Find out next time on RWBY: The Verdant Light of Remnant!
RWBY: The Verdant Light of Remnant - Chapter 4: The Trials of Emerald Valley - End.
Okay, that was ALOT longer than i expected, but i wanted to do the initiation test within just 2 chapters & i think that stopping where Ruby has had enough of Weiss' bullshit & ditches her is a good place to stop the first half of this test. Now for the inevitable questions i know i'll have about the changes i made in this AU Xover.
1: Why change the setting & turn Emerald Forest into a giant valley? Because i want to expend the World of Remnant in someway, making small scale stuff like this sounds like a good start to me. I felt that the forest itself wasn't enough of an interesting starting area & i thought that expending it into a big Valley with a few different sections would make the enviroment more fleshed out, since i think that visual storytelling is very important & i think this would serve as good foreshadowing alongside the other areas of the Valley that we'll see in the next chapter. (although to be fair, that was V1 & they were very limited in what they could actually do with the resources they had)
2: Why Weiss Hate? Because i felt that Weiss was poorly handled in V1, especially in her so-called "Character Development" that happens OFF SCREEN in the last few chapters of V1. So i think that strating things out sooner & go from there would work better, that's also why i thought about making Ruby less patient with Weiss was a better solution. Ruby is overall a good person who wants to see the best in everyone, but even she has her limits & i think this would be a good way to show bits of said limits.
3: Why is Ozpin so much crazier in this? That's simple... He IS crazy! Who the hell launches students about to enter his academy from high peaks like a cannon with a straight face? This guy is nuts! He's not malicious or evil (although he IS an idiot who never thinks of the longterm consequences of his actions like- oh i don't know, TAKING ATLAS TO THE SKY & CAUSING A MASSIVE POLITICAL DIVIDE & ABUSE OF POWER THAT FOCKED OVER MANTLE FOR YEARS?! OR NOT TELLING THE TEAM ABOUT THE LAMP ATTRACTING GRIMM IN V6 WHICH CAUSED SOME CIVILIANS TO GET INVOLVED IN THE TRAIN TO ARGUS?! NO "TACTICAL GENIUS" WOULD EVER MAKE SUCH STUPID DECISIONS LIKE THAT!) but he's certainly not sane, but can you blame him? he's been alive for god knows how long & at this point, he just doesn't even care anymore most of the time. Hell, he doesn't even have a REAL plan to stop Salem anymore, THAT'S how much done he is. That being said, i AM planning an arc with him & Ruby in V2, but that's gonna be saved for later.
4: What's Blake's overall goals here? Well, one of them was already established, she wants revenge for someone who she cherished, those answers will be revealed when the Team finds out that she's a Faunus & by extension, an EX-WF member. Her second goal however is still the same, stopping the White Fang. But things will be a bit more personal than that, but again, i'm not gonna go too deep right now because it'll be a spoiler
& 5: Is Summer actually dead? The answer is this. The world at large THINKS she's dead, but in reality, she's not. but much like in canon, she most likely isn't "alive" alive so to say. as for why NOONE knew of Ruby's & Yang's existence is simple. Ozpin cherished his friendship with STRQ alot here, especially his friendship with Summer, so he wanted to make sure NOONE knew that they had kids. Cause if that became Public Knowledge while the girls were still growing up, that would only increase the chances of Salem & her forces eventually finding them both, mainly Ruby. so outside of those who live in Patch & some folks in Vale, noone KNOWS that STRQ even had children, NOPE! not even the other headmasters/rulers of Remnant. Ironwood, Theodore, Lionheart, they're not aware of their existence as of yet & trust me, that'll become important later!
Edit: Once again, nothing major outside of a few dialogue scenes being changed, the biggest offender being Blake's chat with Byleth where Blake doesn't go that deep into the details, since i felt that she talked too much there & that's not really Blake's thing. I couldn't really think of what new scene i could add here or what to remove here like in C3's re-edit, but i don't think that's necessarity a bad thing.
Anyways, i think that's enough for now. Thank you once again for those who keep supporting this series, this has been Remnant Bardock & until next time, have a wonderful day my friends!