The previous night.
Did I say too much?
Not sure how it looked from the outside, but from where I was standing...might as well have been mistaken for taking an impromptu exam with that level of explaining.
There's no way he didn't raise suspicion. It was a mistake to not interfere and leave rather than allowing him to go into that much detail.
The walk back was absent of conversation, the pair processing what to say to the other once they got to their room.
Quietly shutting the door behind him, Zen sighed, staring at it as if the answer were etched on its surface.
Finally, he turned to face Penny, who now sat on her bed, fully aware of how he felt.
"Was it a wise decision to go to such lengths to answer her question like that?" Asking with a slight hesitant tone to her voice, though not wanting to go into the topic.
It'd be best to get any doubt that clouded both of our minds out of the way now so as to not mull over it later.
Looking over to the window at the night sky, his brows furrowed and his lips twisted into a small frown before answering, his features returning to normal as he made eye contact with her.
"Honestly? I don't know if I sounded convincing, did it seem obvious I was thinking on the spot?
I know I should be careful about what to say, but I wanted to give at least an accurate depiction of my 'home' rather than being suspiciously vague."
"I understand..." Somehow, her aversion as she responded did not convince him.
Well she didn't hiccup at least.
"Could you tell I was over exaggerating?"
"No, you appeared genuine, judging by the reactions from Ruby, Weiss and Blake you were quite authentic with your explanation, it's just..."
"Not with Yang?"
She nodded before continuing.
"I sense Yang would be apprehensive about you no matter how you approached her question.
I believe it might be attributed to her close relationship with her sister for one, the other could be also a result of her combat style."
"..."
"Since she's normally in close proximity with her opponents, she will have over time, learned to pick up on the simplest of changes in your posture or even your expression.
Not to mention I have observed her on numerous occasions exhibiting an outgoing personality and being sociable with almost everyone she meets.
If I'm being honest, she might have detected me fidgeting slightly while you were talking."
"You think she'd be able to perceive that much from such a somewhat short exchange?"
"It's a possibility that shouldn't be ruled out.
For what it's worth, even if we're worrying over nothing, it does not hurt to err on the side of caution."
"Hmmm, what's said has been said, and whatever may or may not happen next, I'll just have to take what comes my way."
Shrugging with an exhausted expression before making his way to the bathroom to change.
Once out, he moved slowly towards his bed, just as he was about to shift the covers, his attention focused on the red head as he heard her voice.
"There was one thing that came to mind while you were answering Yang's question and I wanted to talk about it."
"Oh? And what's that?"
"The day you received your identification from the headmaster, I noticed that it lacked an insignia."
Wait, does she mean what I think it means?
Glancing over to his scroll, he grabbed the device and allowed it to display his personal information, and sure enough, after skimming the entire document, his eyes landed to the right hand corner of his identification.
There's just a box greyed out with the letters 'TBP' being the only thing within it. TBP? To be produced?
After a solemn minute or so Penny broke his attention.
"Do you know what I mean when I talk about your insignia?"
"No, not really."
"I'm referring to your emblem, or as they were termed during the great war; standards.
It acts as a visual signifier of who you are, similar to how a signature is a written identifier, mine for example are a pair of my swords combined together, Weiss Schnee has the Schnee family emblem-"
"And Ruby has her rose?"
"Exactly."
"So how do I go about getting my own?"
"For one, consider what your emblem should look like and how it embodies who you are.
Second, think about which colour to use, as much like shape, the colour is a defining aspect, with the history after the great war giving us a reason why it's so important .
Third, cross reference with known records to see if there are any emblems that exist which could be very similar in design, if that is the case, repeat steps one and two.
Lastly, you can finalise the design, have it registered, and incorporate the emblem both to your clothing as well as having it engraved onto your weapons."
He kept quiet for a minute or two before thinking aloud.
"I'm pretty confident that what I might come up with is going to be original, but seeing as how no two students share a weapon in design or functionality, surely the same can't be said for emblems?
There are probably some simple designs that I could think of off the top of my head that I'm sure already exist and therefore the chances of a clash more times than not would be high.
So would that mean I should think ahead and come up with more than one design, just in case?"
"Though there may seem to be many differing designs, but that only because you've been use to seeing those only at the academy. In reality it's not uncommon for someone not to have a personalised insignia, with most choosing to keep to their family's emblem.
Some will choose to alter their emblem to a degree where they may want to be unique, but keep ties with their original heritage.
Others may have them changed due to their profession , for example, when it comes to our line of work, not having a unique insignia that can stand out may be a problem, say if you lost your scroll on a mission, and you need to be identified after completing it, the insignia would be an easy and effective temporary solution until you can replace your missing scroll.
"Wonder why Ozpin never had it made for me?"
"Potentially he may have held off assigning you one in the hopes that once you regained your memories, you could use your old one. Thereby preventing any confliction between the newly assigned emblem versus your pre-existing one.
Or maybe he thought when the time was right, you would want the chance to create your own yourself."
"Sounds about right that Ozpin would think ahead."
"It seems that way. So, as far as what you can tell, you don't have one?"
"No, I haven't."
"Well, we can work on that tomorrow, I think it's time we got- you, got some rest."
"You were right the first time, we both need the rest.
G'night Penny, talk to you in the morning."
"Goodnight Zen, may you rest easy and have pleasant dreams."
Blake awoke to a heavy thud less than a metre away from her, signifying it was time to get up, yet somehow, the girl suspected that there was more weight to the landing than the normal routine.
Gradually opening her eyes, she stared up at her bunk buddy who was gathering up her things to use in the shower, though looking over to the other side of the room with the lower bunk unoccupied as well as the soothing sound of running water, the blonde was going to have to wait.
The raven haired girl pushed off against her bed to look up at her leader, still softly snoring, almost dead to the world, unlike a few days ago.
Knowing this, she got up to talk with her teammate.
"Good morning Yang."
"..."
"I said good morning Yang."
"Oh, morning Blake."
"Are you doing okay? You seem to be a little preoccupied."
"Yeah you could say that, I was thinking about last night."
"With...Zen?"
"Yep."
"But all he did was answer your question." She replied, maintaining a neutral tone so as to not increase the tension any further.
"I know, but something doesn't gel with me, and I'm going to find out what that is."
The blonde answered while moving towards her sister's bunk and nudging for her to get up.
"I thought we agreed you weren't talking to Zen until I do first."
"I remember, and I trust you will have a word with him. I'm heading to the library during my free period, see if what he said checks out."
Just as Blake was about to object, the door to the bathroom opened as Weiss stepped out and eyed the two, but moved aside when she saw Yang break the staring contest and walked past without giving a second glance.
After the sound of the water began to run, she turned to face the faunus.
" Is Yang still obsessed with Zen?"
"Got it in one."
"What exactly is she hoping to achieve anyhow?"
"Your understanding of the whole ordeal is the same as mine."
Weiss furrowed her brows but said nothing as she walked over to her bed to continue getting ready for the day, prodding the still half-asleep Ruby in the process.
Leaving the raven haired girl to just be alone with her thoughts.
This is not going to end until Yang gets what she wants, whatever that is.
I did make a promise to her I'd talk to him, and the sooner I uphold that promise, the sooner things may go back to normal...hopefully. If ever there were a time to trade places with Weiss, this would definitely be it.
Massaging her forehead, dreading to think what could await her if she actually did come back with information that would be considered strange not only in Yang's books, but hers as well.
Given a minute or so to calm herself, she straightened up and began to march to the door, that was until after only two steps before freezing.
No, I can't just simply march over there and expect to get answers...not to mention it's still early.
But I need to start somewhere.
Maybe if, if I can find out more about him I can see what I have to work with.
I mean he looks like he'd be easy to talk to, but what if he's more rigid and he knows how to deceive someone or - No, this isn't the White Fang anymore, this isn't an interrogation of a high priority target, he's just an ordinary student.
"Blake?"
Oh yeah, plus I'm still in my pyjamas.
"Blake?"
"Oh! Yes Ruby?"
"Yang's out of the shower. Did you want to go first?"
Did I really take so long to think this over that Yang of all people has finished showering?
"Blake?" Looking back down, she was welcomed by a concerned pair of eyes staring back up at her.
"N-no, I showered last night, I'm good." she replied whilst giving her leader a reassuring half smile.
Despite a hint of being dissatisfied with the answer, she nodded and made her way to the bathroom. Blake stared at the door closing behind the young girl before returning to her thoughts.
Now back to the problem how do I find out- wait that's it!
With her idea in place, she walked over to her bedside, collecting all the things she'd need for the day before sitting patiently.
"Ready to head down to meet with the others?"
"I am, but what about you Blake? You're still in your sleep wear?" Weiss asked whilst staring at her teammate.
"You guys go on ahead, I'll wait for Ruby, make sure she doesn't accidently lock herself in there like last time.
"As much as I'd like to see that happen again, maybe you should, just in case."
"Alright, we'll see you two there."
"See you soon."
As the door closed behind the freezer burn pair, Blake sighed before proceeding to change into her proper attire and waited for the younger girl to finish showering.
Five or so minutes later, Ruby exited whilst fastening her cape to the rest of her clothing, before looking up to see Blake standing in the middle of the room.
"Have Weiss and Yang gone to the cafeteria?"
"Yes they did, I told them I'd wait for you."
"Thanks Blake."
"Don't mention it... Hey Ruby?"
"Yeah?"
"I uh, wanted to talk to you?"
"Sure, about what?"
Wait, this might take a while and if they're already waiting for us, they could come back here to see why we haven't shown up yet...
"Blake?"
"Not now. You have a free period after your first lesson that you'd use to train with Zen right?"
"Yes I do."
"Do you think you can maybe miss one training session with him and meet me in the courtyard, by the bench next to the red tree?"
"Okay, I can do that."
"Thank you, now what do you say we head down and meet up with the others."
With breakfast done and gone, the cape wearer said goodbye to the rest of her teammates and friends before setting off to the first class of the day.
Once arriving at said class, she immediately scanned the room until she found her target, who was currently sketching in a note book, from her vantage point at least. Happily walking over to where he was seated, she promptly sat beside him which took his attention away from his current illustration.
"Hey Ruby how's it going?"
"So far it's been good. How are you feeling after yesterday?"
"The only thing I'm feeling is that we take it up and notch. Try attacking while you use Crescent Rose to evade me, I need to work on my ability to judge whether to press forward or retreat to assess what to do next."
"That's what I like to hear."
"We're going to the training room straight after this lesson?"
"Yeah of cour- actually, no hold that thought."
"No?"
"Blake wanted to talk to me."
"Have any idea what it's about?"
"Not really no."
"Well hopefully it goes well, I have to catch up on some notes anyhow."
"..."
"There's more to it, isn't there?"
"It's... I don't want to really point to anything too drastic, though something like this has happened before."
I think I know where this might be going. He thought to himself before asking.
"Really, how so?"
"Well, I shouldn't be telling you this, but before the Vale breach, one night Blake along with our friend Sun, had witnessed some strange airships near the docks, they went to check it out and found that Roman Torchwick, along with the White Fang were in the process of stealing a shipment of dust.
Unfortunately they got away, and Blake blamed herself for that, but more importantly, she wanted answers;
'What is Roman planning and why are the White Fang working with him?'
As a result of this question, she became fixated with the investigation, she thought that everyone was sitting idle while those crimes were being committed, she felt that no one was doing anything about it, no one except her and she wanted to see it through.
So much so it got to the point where she was losing sleep, wasn't eating properly if not at all, her grades were slipping and she became irritated at the simplest of things."
He noted the slight shift from maintaining eye contact with him, obviously trying her best to conceal any connection Blake had to the White Fang or divulge her true identity.
She skipped over the entire investigation with the four of them, Sun and Neptune, which lead to the White Fang's operation in the south east as well as the Mech fight.
Then again, that would also lead to the eventual question of why Blake cared so much about the Torchwick/White Fang alliance, as well as why she went to the White Fang recruitment rally.
He was pulled out of his thoughts once he heard Ruby continue.
"I just hope I'm over-thinking things and it's only something minor."
"And what's happened with Blake that makes you so worried it could be a repeat of history?"
"She was absent minded when I tried talking to her this morning, I had to call her name multiple times before she even responded, and well... that's exactly how it first started...
Ruby trailed off with a look of worry now appearing on her expression before going quiet and turning away.
"This is something that is between you and Blake and I shouldn't interfere, but...if there is, in any way that I am able to assist, let me know."
Upon hearing this Ruby perked up a little at the small gesture as she turned back to face him.
"Thank you, I know it sounds like I'm over-reacting, but I care so much about her, I just want to make sure she is happy and safe, I want to make sure that goes the same with Weiss and Yang too."
She fell silent for a few seconds before changing the subject.
"So apart from that. Are we planning another training session this afternoon then?"
"We will...but first Penny and I may need to take care of one or two things before we'll meet in the usual training room."
"Anything I can help with?"
Hmmm
"That depends, I'm going to draw up, check and then register my insignia and then see to getting it sewn on my clothing and engraved on my weapons."
"I'll see if I can come, but how come you don't have one already?"
"The thing is-"
"Good morning class how are we? Now continuing from yesterday."
Fortunately he was spared the explanation as Dr Oobleck entered the room and immediately addressed the class.
Blake paced back and forth, she wasn't sure why she felt this paranoia about trying to talk to Ruby.
My own teammate for crying out loud.
Maybe it was the dread of going behind her leaders' back in order to ascertain information about a friend of hers, this conversation was happening not because of genuine interest but for ulterior motives.
"Where can she be?"
"Right next to you."
"Eeep!" If ever anyone needed to connect the raven haired girl to feline tendencies, right now would be a perfect example.
She leapt a few feet in the air while turning around and facing the younger teen who took a step back in surprise.
"Don't scare me like that!"
"I'm really sorry."
"Please... just don't do that again." She replied, half panicked, half sighing as she tried to relax and not snap at her leader.
"Blake, is something wrong?"
"Why do you ask?"
Really, after this morning, are you in the least bit surprised why Ruby would think that.
"You seemed like you were deep in thought this morning to the point I said your name three times before you reacted, nervous asking me about meeting here, at breakfast I swear I could see the same thing while you were playing with your food, despite it being waffles, which I know are your favourite dish for the morning."
And they were pretty good ones too. Why'd I let them go to waste?
"Anything else?"
"From where I'm standing, I can tell your bow isn't upright.
Not to mention you're the one who has the best hearing out of all of us, yet you failed to hear me approaching you until I said something when I was right beside you.
And just before hand, I could see that you were pacing back and forth while waiting for me."
"I'm, I'm okay, really. I know you are looking out for me, and I'm not the most...upfront when I have a problem I need to deal with, but thank you for all you do to help me."
"I'm always happy to help where and when I can, but if something does come up, you bet I'll come running."
"Thank you."
"Anyway, what was it you wanted to talk to me about?"
Blake sighed before taking a deep breath.
"Its -"
"Wait. Is the reason you've been quiet most of the morning because you're worried about what to say...does it have to do with me?"
"Ruby n-"
"Is it about our work as a team?
Am I letting ladybug down? I know I can work on my side stepping to let you get a clear shot.
"No, nothing like tha-"
"Wait, did I forget to return another book back to you again?"
"I have all my books-"
"I'm sure I returned them to you on time Blake."
"Ruby!"
"Y-yes?" She sheepishly answered, looking up at amber eyes that now held a calmness that were not present when she stared at them that same morning, the owner of those eyes bringing her back into reality.
"You're doing a fine job with the ladybug team attack, I have all my important books, and you are working hard when it comes to all of your subjects, I actually may have to ask for help with one of my assignments."
" Oh. So if it's not about any of those things... then what?" she said, stepping back and scratching the back of her head, her cheeks going a dull shade of red from sheer embarrassment.
There was a minutes silence between the pair, till finally Blake could not postpone the question any longer.
"Well, it's about Zen."
"Zen?"
"Yes, seeing how you two have been getting along, I- I just wanted to get to know him better, much like you have.
I mean, I know I could have just walked up to him, introduce myself and go from there, but after last night, when Yang wanted to know about his home life-"
"You're worried that since he came from Atlas, he has the same 'perspective' as Weiss did?"
"Definitely was one of the things I was worried about.
Maybe we get along with many a things in common, but if we ever got onto the topic...I don't wish to jeopardise a potentially good friendship if he had the same viewpoint, nor do I wish to get hurt as a result.
I thought that since you've spent most of your free lessons with him, I'd see if I needed to be careful about what I said to him."
Once she finished, Blake was quite surprised by Ruby's reaction as she first started to chuckle then it became a fit of laughter as she held onto her side before wiping a small tear from her face.
"What's so funny?"
"Sorry, it's just that, I thought about the reason you want to be friends with Zen is because when the next school break and holidays come, you hope the friendship means you might be invited to hang out with him in Pleiades...so you can try all the seafood from the places that he mentioned."
What! Why didn't I think of that excuse? Though that's actually not a bad idea.
"Yes Ruby. That's exactly what I was going to do, you've figured out my master plan."
Blake deadpanned before the red reaper straightened up and smiled as she became serious.
"Blake. For one thing, after talking with Penny, I can put my hand on my heart and say for certain, Zen's position on faunus is no different to my own.
If you ever were in a situation where you felt comfortable with sharing your secret...he would see you as the same person you were beforehand, an equal.
Actually he'd have the same reaction I had when you showed me, which if you remember...well like I said, you have nothing to worry about."
"Phew, that's a relief."
"What else did you want to know about him?"
"Anything that might seem note-worthy."
"Where to begin, where to begin?" Ruby muttered to herself moving in place as thought how best to paint Zen in the best light.
Blake could swear where she stood the younger girl was trying to find the right words.
After a minute, Ruby snapped her fingers and looked up at Blake with a smile.
"The way I see it, when I first got to know Zen, it- it almost felt like when I was getting to know you."
"Me?"
"Yeah, he can sometimes be reserved about who he is if you try to ask him about his life outside of school, however he can show you who he truly is by just spending time with him."
"..."
"Let me put it another way.
Do you remember our first few weeks as a team? Or even the first day or two starting at Beacon?"
So this is Beacon, home for the next four years...and so far I'm the only faunus, then again, there could still be more people coming for the orientation.
She remembered being the last one to exit the airship, surveying the passengers during the journey, the least of which did not make her confident that Professor Goodwitch who was at the time; the huntress who had bailed her out of her situation and was the one that convinced her to take Beacon's admissions test' and ensured her she would be able to work alongside humans without issue.
Not focusing on anything else except for that exchange, Blake could only remember going straight from the airship to the kiosk she was directed to where she signed her attendance.
"Your belongings will be stored here until you get settled into your dormitory with the rest of your assigned teammates. Orientation is in the main auditorium and will begin in half an hour."
"Thank you, if I do have that long to wait, can I grab a book from my bag?"
"Certainly."
Now I just have to wait till then, might as well keep on the down low and not interact with anyone just yet.
I'm sure I heard one of the passenger's being relieved there were no faunus on board.
From what I've seen from the prior years, I'll be in a group with three other people, just have to make sure he's not one of them.
Relax Blake, just focus on your book and kill time.
Alright so where was I?
She remembered going through the book for five minutes or so, until her attention was taken by-
Wait- what was that noise?
"..."
Huh, I guess it was nothing anyway back to-
Clink
A vial of dust? With the Schnee logo? Wait is that... it is, and she is berating that poor girl, I should intervene.
But I can't just get into a fight, especially with Weiss Schnee of all people.
Think Blake, you've got to be a little more tactful...maybe- I know, what if I can deflect the hostility.
You can do this, don't lose your cool, stay... level... headed.
"Well I'm sorry princess!"
Here's my chance.
"It's heiress actually."
Well that got their attention, just keep talking.
"Weiss Schnee, heiress to the Schnee Dust Corporation..."
"Finally some recognition."
"The same company infamous for its controversial labour laws and questionable business practices."
Well at least I've taken the attention away from the younger girl, and got her smiling at the same time.
"Wha- how dare you, the nerve of some people, give me that!"
"I promise I'll make it up to you!"
I guess my job is done here...maybe I should- no.
"I guess I'm not the only one having a rough day. So wh-"
Just keep walking Blake, don't turn back... even though you would want to.
Looking back at that memory, she did feel that despite her own intentions of keeping to herself, it was quite callous to leave Ruby alone.
It was clear to her that she was younger than the rest of the students, most likely lost and the obvious conflict with Weiss, someone to converse with would have been nice amidst all the things going wrong for her at that point.
As night fell, Blake propped herself up and scanned the room, then looking at the candelabra next to her, she produced a small lighter to help illuminate the small area before picking up her book, contemplating about the events of the day.
She had been contempt that no one had spoken or even approached her during her time here thus far, well apart from the little encounter with Weiss Schnee and the younger girl.
But with at most ten minutes before lights out, she wanted to squeeze in one more chapter.
Now where was I?
"Helloooo."
And speaking of the younger girl, here she comes... or rather here she reluctantly being dragged towards me.
"I believe you two know each other."
Act dumb Blake.
"Aren't you that girl that exploded?"
Real smooth, nice one.
"Uh yeah, my name's Ruby."
Again, upon recalling how she ignored Ruby's open hand shake, Blake felt like kicking her past self, even if she knew she wanted privacy, at least for the night that is.
"You can just call me crater - er Ruby, just Ruby."
Poker face Blake, let that one fly over you.
"What are you doing?"
"I don't know help me."
She could hear the pair muttering to one another, but remained affixed to the book still wanting to keep to herself.
I know that the blonde is trying to help her make friends, but using the brute force technique of just getting two people to better know each other is not the way, especially seeing how the young girl- Ruby, looks like the introverted type.
"So what's your name?" The blonde asked nervously.
I guess I can tell them.
"It's Blake."
"Well I'm Yang, Ruby's older sister...I like your bow."
"Thanks."
"It really goes well with your- uh, pyjamas."
I guess if it were me in this position, I'd comment on the hair and the singlet.
"Riiiight."
"Nice night, don't you think?"
I know this is going to come off as rude, but I just want to be left alone for now.
"Yes it's lovely...almost as lovely as this book."
"..."
"That I will continue to read."
"..."
Okay Blake final hint before you may just have to ignore them entirely.
"As soon as you leave."
"Yeah this girl's a lost cause."
You really know how to talk don't you...might as well have told them to pi-
"What's it about?"
Wait?
"What?"
"When we spoke to each other, during that first night at Beacon.
Though I wanted to be alone, Yang insisted you make friends, by starting with me. You were genuine when you showed curiosity with my book..."
Your whole reason to be a huntress, at the time it sounded quite naive, yet the hope in your eyes...
Though the silence had befallen the two was short, it was enough for Ruby to notice the expression Blake wore, which told her everything.
"I can understand that at the time, with you trying to keep who you are a secret, so don't let what happened back then affect what we've become.
If the roles were reversed I would have done the same."
"I know, it's-"
"Nope."
"But-"
"Whatever you may think I recall of our first meeting, I am not upset, and I don't forgive you for what happened as there is nothing to need forgiveness."
Admittedly, what I did could be excusable to her, but she's so forgiving, though it was that type of mindset I saw in Ad-
Immediately Blake cut her thoughts short, despite trying her best not to think of her former life, it was hard not to reflect on those times, especially as a way to learn and improve from the experiences.
She knew subconsciously that was one of the main reasons why she avoided Ruby initially, it was especially why she felt guilt, making preconceived notions of someone who she never met based on someone else entirely.
For crying out loud!
The only similarity between the two is that they both wear red and black, that's all.
Finally after mentally composing herself, she returned her attention to the younger girl, who she assumed was probably waiting for her to accept the truth that there really was no reason to dwell on past actions.
"Okay, consider this the last time I ever feel regret about our first encounter and the excuses as to why it was my fault are now banished from my mind."
She jokingly said, though Ruby knew there was sincerity behind it, to which she responded by leaping into Blake's arms for a hug.
"Good." Was all she said before pulling away.
"Don't forget what happened the next day."
"What was that exactly?"
"You told me a while ago how focused you were on finding a good partner and equal set of teammates."
"Made the landing in one piece, now I just need to find a partner."
Blake half whispered to herself as she crouched down, hidden behind a large tree as she began to ponder her options.
Now who do I know?
Well for one, stay away from the guy in heavy armour, the same guy I saw on the airship, totally full of himself, all brawn, no brain.
That blonde boy asking questions at the cliff may not be a good candidate either, seems to be quiet and possibly good natured, though having an outward mannerism of ill-experience in combat.
The only other people I know are Weiss Schnee, Ruby and her sister Yang.
Weiss is out of the question for the time being, I wouldn't mind if I was partnered with Ruby, so determined...almost like me, she needs guidance in this world.
"Woo hoo!"
Blake could remember looking overhead in surprise, only to see a streak of yellow rush past above the trees, followed by more shotgun blasts echoing around the canopy.
Whelp its settled, looks like Yang is my partner.
Taking a deep breath, and letting her ears pick up where the sound still lingered, she turned and ran to catch up with her teammate to-be.
She recalled that during her pursuit towards Yang's approximate location, there could have been one opportunity of nearly being someone else's partner.
Who's that in the distance?
Oh no, it's Weiss.
I need to create a distraction.
Creating a shadow clone and sending it in the adjacent direction, she kept sprinting, right past the heiress, only turning back slightly to get a glimpse of her shadow clone.
Come on clone, disappear.
"Hello, is somebody there?"
Luckily the clone disappeared before she could see it.
Now, which way did Yang go?
"I still can't believe that you took Ozpin's criteria for finding a partner literally."
"Well I didn't, remember it was when you made direct eye contact did they become your teammate, and anyhow, was I wrong to join our team?"
"No, and don't ever think your choices could have been different." She jokingly teased, pointing a finger at the older girl.
"I won't, I promise."
"And while we're on the subject, what about when the two of us got together to train for a one on one after our first day of classes?"
"That was before we went to the docks as Weiss insisted we need to be there to 'welcome' other students?"
"Yep."
Pretty sure if I have to give a speech about my time at Beacon on graduation, that is going to be one of the moments I'm definitely including, if it's the one she's talking about.
The way Beacon structured its academic curriculum, free time had been allocated between certain subjects, and for some reason, whoever came up with the timetabling decided that the first class of the day would be ideal for a free period, which meant some students could afford to sleep in.
Sadly, that wasn't the case for Yang as well as Weiss, who had a morning lesson together, which meant Ruby and Blake were alone in the dorm.
Ruby continuing to work on the papers she had from the previous night, while Blake lay in bed with her novel, though Blake's mind was far from the pages.
I can honestly say yesterday wasn't too bad, on initial inspection, the others are actually fun to be around and are nice people who deserve to be here.
Yang's one for cracking jokes, a little too many for my liking, but still, I can get past that with how she may not be too enthusiastic about some lessons, she gives her all and knows what's important despite being laid back most of the time.
Weiss has been surprising. Didn't get along with Ruby after being made leader, though last night tells me they've sorted it out, being a Schnee, she's probably lived her life on a high pedestal.
Living on top as 'number one' for that long, it would only be natural for her to assume with such exemplary talent and skill, the leadership role would be appointed to her, anything else would be illogical.
If it took her less than a day to change...I think the more time she spends in the real world, the better of a human being she'll become.
As for Ruby, I-
"Hey Blake?"
Speaking of which.
"Yes Ruby?"
She saw the girl timidly call out to her as she traversed the other side of the room to hers, the tips of her index fingers touching together as she stood in front of Blake's bed, alternating eye contact between Blake and the floor.
"I uh... I was wondering, could, could I possibly see your weapon?"
"You want to see my weapon?"
"Y-yeah, if it's okay, you don't have to if you don't want to... I know it's been less than a week we've come to know each other and-"
"Here..."
She leaned down to where the weapon lay to the side of the bed, lifting up and handing it to the younger girl, who appeared bewildered as it was now tenderly resting in her grasp.
Ruby stared with sheer amazement before drawing it from the protective sheath, holding it correctly though in opposite hands, the whole scene playing out to Blake was akin to her own reaction upon finally completing the weapon.
"Does- does it have a name?"
"Gambol Shroud."
Blake observed the smile radiate off her as she inspected the weapon with a curiosity before looking up, beaming with pride.
"My scythe's name is Crescent Rose."
"That's a befitting name for such a majestic weapon."
"Thank you... I love how sleek this blade is, almost resembles a katana..."
"It is a katana."
"Oh, so it's made of forged steel?"
"Yes. In fact, it uses the old technique of folding several layers on itself to give it better strength."
"Cool...Um, Blake?"
"Yes?"
"Since we still have time before the next lesson, did you want to spar with me?"
"I don't see why not. I'll check if there are any rooms available." She remembered slamming the book shut and pushing off the bed before happily walking over to her scroll.
It was very telling to Blake once they arrived at the training room, that her teammate's younger sister had a completely different side to her, like a coiled spring ready to be released, she had that much energy.
Yep...she's definitely in her element here. Musing to herself whilst getting into a fighting stance and eyeing her opponent up and down.
"Are you ready?"
"You bet I am."
"Then let's proceed."
Ruby charged in, firing Crescent Rose once to increase the power she'd deliver in her swing, focused on Blake, she didn't notice the smirk she wore, and as she released the weapon, moving across ready to cut down its target... Blake's silhouette evaporated upon contact.
"Huh?"
Ruby's confusion quickly vanished as Blake reappeared while halfway through a front flip above where she initially stood, before using the back of her combatants head as a spring board as she pushed away from the hood wearer in a split second.
The additional force plus the momentum she already had whilst carrying through the swing sent Ruby stumbling forward, and to Blake's surprise, the younger girl managed to maintain her balance and kept herself from falling face first into the floor.
"Might want to be a little less direct next time you attack." She advised as Ruby turned around, priming for another head first attack.
Nodding in agreement, Ruby shifted the weight of Crescent Rose behind her, cocking the rifle before launching off, darting along in a zigzag, appearing to Blake at one moment, then gone the next.
Blake readied Gambol Shroud as she braced for the scythe, with Ruby appearing behind her and bringing the weapon across in another arc, though this time with more speed compare to the first hit.
Blake moved around to get a better angle just in time for both weapons to grind together, she then brought her sheath into play and allowed it to take the weight from gambol shroud as it converted into its pistol mode.
Firing several shots at Ruby had the desired effect, causing the younger girl to retreat, giving enough time for Blake to reposition herself for an attack, she charged forward, delivering several blows while alternating positions as well as using decoy clones every time she thought Ruby would deal a successful blow or lucky shot.
This proved effective for a minute or so, until Ruby collapsed her weapon into its compact form, gripping it tightly as she focused on the 'true Blake' firing once, then running to give herself some distance.
The hood wearer then spun around, her scythe emerging once again before being planted into the floor and firing a volley of rounds towards Blake.
After the first two rounds made contact, Blake evaded the direct line of fire, leading Ruby to remove her scythe and went for a close range attack.
As soon as the faunus girl knew her opponents' intentions, she manoeuvred herself to run directly towards the incoming strike.
Within a few metres, she produced a clone and dived out of the way,
Ruby was too mentally focussed to notice the clone taking place of Blake, she attacked as before and again, the clone evaporated upon contact.
Holding her scythe, it's blade above her shoulder from following through with the strike, she heard Gambol Shroud fire, but before reacting, she felt her weapon being violently lurched from her grasp.
She whipped around, so as to run after her precious, but was met with Blake's boots nailing her square in the face which caused the now unarmed Ruby to go skidding along the floor.
"I think that's match."
Blake said, strolling over to where Ruby lay and happily gave her a hand up.
"You fought well, though you still have a lot to learn."
"Thanks." She replied, accepting the hand up and then dusting herself off.
"I didn't expect to be able to pull your weapon away from you like that, but at least I still was able to perform the move...there's just one thing I have to ask."
"Oh, what's that?"
"How are you able to handle a cumbersome weapon like Crescent Rose so gracefully?"
"Simple...I drink milk."
"I'll admit, though you still have much to learn, it's undeniable I have to come up with more creative strategies if I want to use decoy tactics in order to attack you effectively."
"I know, but hey, the fact is... we have the best team attack out of all of team RWBY...but don't tell Weiss or Yang I said that."
"I won't, I promise."
Blake winked in confirmation before looking around then returning her attention to Ruby.
"Thank you for coming to see me, I know you've been excited for your free periods and what you're doing is important...it was good to have this talk with you and look back at our first few days together."
"Ah don't mention it, I had fun too."
"There's just one thing."
"Which is?"
"We've been through a lot within this year, and we could spend the entire day or even another several months going through every moment you and I have shared.
Yet after all of this, you didn't even once mention anything about Zen and what he's like...which was the reason I wanted to see you in the first place."
"No I didn't, but I think you can understand why?"
"Not really no?"
"Whatever picture I can paint of Zen, no matter how I describe who he is, how accurately I can best convey my experiences with him or his personality and tendencies...the time we've spent as friends... any moment...memory... none of it will matter once you finally meet him on your own.
The conversation might go good, or it might be a rocky first somewhat like ours, the second or even third you have with him would be better, but I doubt you will have any trouble with the very first at all."
"I-I can't really argue with that logic."
Again, I'm sorry I pulled you away from the training, I know how much you are invested in helping him."
"No need for the extra apologies, had you wanted to see me at the end of the day rather than now, I may not have been able to train him effectively, since I'd be worrying about you the entire time until I knew for sure whatever problem you had was fixed."
"I suspected something along those lines would happen. There's just one more thing I need from you before we head off to the next lesson."
"And what's that?"
"Can I ask that when you do see Zen, could you not mention any of this to him."
"I won't, I promise."
"Thank you."
That afternoon.
With the last set of private lessons done for the day, Penny headed off to where her teammate had asked to reconvene.
'Come to the library'
Looking around she could see he sat at one of the computers, getting closer it appeared he was cycling through the various registered emblems.
"So how has the search been going?"
"Oh hey! Guess I was so focused here I didn't see the time. Just finishing my search."
"Was there anything you had in mind for a design per-se."
"Actually, there is one I've always wished to have."
Instantly, he grabbed a nearby pen then flipping open his notebook to the back page, he started scribbling furiously, all the red head could do was quietly observe the sketch over his shoulder.
Once finished he triumphantly turned to face Penny and handed her the book.
The image itself appeared to be a thin crescent shape with what appeared to be a small point on the top right tangent of the crescent that had several lines emanating from it.
"So what do you think about it?"
"I like its simplicity. But, what exactly is it suppose to represent?"
"It's a solar eclipse...during the third contact...the end of totality, just as the moon's shadow is shifting away from the observer and the first few rays are emerging."
"Zen, although I like the design and you've put thought into it, I have seen several solar eclipses before, I've never witnessed one that looked like this, from what you've drawn, this makes the moon look...whole?"
Damn. Think Zen...
"Well, you see...
I'd say at one point, the moon was intact, and that's how I imagine the solar eclipse would look like if you were standing on Remnants surface as a total solar eclipse took place.
Besides I'm also sure that someone else would have come up with a design based on the solar eclipse with the moon in its current state.
After going through the registry here, there were in fact several emblem variations with the moon, though none with what I've drawn.
Though really the crescent shape I've drawn is really the solar prominence and the moon's shadow is negative space in the drawing."
Despite being accustomed to Zen, there were times where Penny felt there was still more to learn about her teammate, and really, the way he got when he talked about the heavens, it was analogous to Ruby and weaponry.
He was overflowing with eagerness to get going, standing up and twirled around to face her, snapping his fingers (which brought her out of her thoughts) and pointed to her before snatching up his belongings.
" I'm confident that I have an original design. "
By the late afternoon, Zen and Penny had travelled into Vale and spent, to Zen's surprise, a very short amount of time waiting in the registry office before getting his design verified as unique.
The registration process took slightly longer as they initially had trouble with his records, but with a quick call to Ozpin, the issue was resolved without question.
After which, the pair visited Battle Pals to make some minor, but very necessary changes to his attire. Once completed, they were on an airship back to Beacon and headed for the training rooms to meet up with Ruby, by this point it had already become dark, though it was still far from lights out.
"I really can't wait for Ruby to see the emblem, do you imagine she'll be overjoyed when I tell her about... my... swords?"
"..."
"Penny?"
"Oh sorry, yes she definitely will."
"Are you okay, you seem out of it?"
"No I-I'm fine."
Hiccup
"..."
"Actually. You go on ahead, just remembered I need to grab something from our room and then I'll head over."
Hiccup
"No worries, see you there."
Once Zen had turned the corner, Penny halted her advance along the corridor.
"Salutations Blake. How are you?" The android responded as she spun around with a warm cheery smile as the faunus girl sheepishly came out of hiding several meters away.
"How did you-"
"You are not the only one who is aware of their surroundings, also the looks other students were giving you while you remained 'unseen' was a giveaway.
"They were staring? Anyway, I - uh -" She fumbled with her words until simply grabbing Penny's arm.
"We need to talk."
Before yanking her with a yelp.
Though Penny did not know it, Blake had taken the android to the exact room that she herself had been dragged to by Yang the day before the dance.
"So, what are we doing here and why did you need to speak to me in privacy so urgently?"
"Well, it has to do with Zen."
What's in a Name:
"So how'd it go with Blake?
"I was right, I was over-reacting, but we sorted things out."
I can't wait until they get to know each other, maybe she might help Zen too.
Wonder how he'd stand up against her mid-range attacks with Gambol Shroud, or even against her shadow clones?
"Ruby?"
She blinked after realising Zen was waving a hand in front of her.
"Oh, sorry, kinda was thinking happy thoughts. Anyway is Penny coming?"
"She had to take a detour to the dorm, so I'd say she'd be-"
He was cut off by his scroll notifying him of an incoming message, which he proceeded to check.
'Something has come up, you and Ruby can start without me and I'll be there as soon as I can when I'm done.'
"Scratch that, seems as though she's not going to be training with us for the time being."
"Right, so let's get started with some of those basic strikes and blocks as a warm up..."
A much needed Talk:
"So let me get this straight. You want to get to know Zen, but before even talking with him, you ask Ruby for any details of his character and personality?
To which she said you will have to find out on your own as what she says will have no bearing based on your own personal perception...and now you're asking me?
"I know it sounds weird, but I feel I need to have some insights before I actually say anything."
"Though I'm not someone accustomed to giving advice in response to friendship, I see no harm in simply walking up to him and introducing yourself and going from there."
"I asked Ruby because of how 'new' their friendship has been. I am asking you because you've known him for longer than that."
Ruby calmly walked over to the opposing side of the training room, giving Zen a hand up off the floor for the third time after another win on her part.
"You are getting the hang of the close hand to hand, though you're still unable to break past my quick strikes..."
"I know, but my reaction time can only go so far."
"It's getting better, I can see, but it still needs work. Shall we go again?"
"Just give me a minute to catch my breath and loosen up a little more."
"Blake I really don't know what to tell you or what you want me to say."
"I-I just don't want to come off as someone rude, I've spent time making friends, and even then they were thrust upon me rather than actually forming out of pure chance."
If I were to hazard a guess, I'd say there's more to this than what you're making it out to be. She thought to herself whilst listing to the faunus girl, till finally she decided to cut her off.
"Blake, if you want to know then I'll tell you."
"Really?"
"Just as Ruby said, it is worth forming your own view of him by talking to him, however I will say that the time Zen and I have shared are a result of pure trust and understanding.
He shows genuine concern when something is troubling me, and strives to help, much like Ruby.
When it comes to his academic side, he is focused and passionate about his study and though he might ask for help more than once he is not deterred by problems as does Weiss.
His home life...I have no idea, but whatever it is, it's been the foundation of who he is and what he strives for as a huntsman.
I feel that when he is ready, he will talk to me about it, that does not mean he isn't open about other things on his mind... something he reminds me of you.
His overall enthusiasm, mindset, the need to be able to help where he can I see some of those qualities in Yang."
"Okay, that I can work with."
"You can?" Penny sounded weary, though knowing perhaps Blake had finally gotten what she sought.
"Yes thank you...oh and one thing, I know he's your teammate and I'm your friend, if you do tell Zen you saw me, keep the details of what you said about him to me as discrete as possible."
"I think I can do so."
Hiccup
"Thank you."
"By the way, sorry I couldn't make it with you guys to the registry."
"It's fine, though I do have something else you might find interesting."
"And what's that?"
"I've finally come up with a name for both my weapons."
Without even having the slightest chance to blink, there was a flash of red and black passing in front of him before Ruby reappeared, several petals floating down and around from where she stood, barely a few centimetres separating the pair.
"Oooh what are they?"
"First off. Ruby, could I have a little personal space thanks?"
"Hehe, sorry about that." She responded with a sheepish tone while backing away a step or two as her friend requested.
"I've given them each their own name, but that doesn't mean they aren't independent of one another. Their names are Spirit and Opportunity respectively, he said as he lifted his right sword first then gesturing to his left.
Any reason for why? Ruby said inquisitively.
"Well let's put it this way..."
Pausing before collecting himself, trying not to give the real reason.
"We are training to become hunters, and one day, it will be our job to protect the world from the dangers out there, we've proven to have the upmost skill in order to help those in need.
We all have been given the Opportunity to succeed in fulfilling the role of protectors for this world.
It is this reason that drives me and motivates me to maintain the Spirit that as a huntsman, I can prevent a lot of pain and suffering for many people in the future."
Even those I care so much so, I don't want to see them deal with what's to come.
"Wow, you've put some thought into them...I like it."
Just as he was about to continue, he was interrupted by the door to the training room opening as Penny stepping through.
"I'm not interfering with anything am I?" she called out as she strolled over
"Nup, in fact I just told her about my weapons...and you called it, she likes them."
"Of course I would. Why would I think that names you gave to weapons I made would be anything but good." she courtly responded, whilst holding her head high.
"Well now that you're here, now I can actually have an even fight."
Zen looked over to Penny as he was undoing his bed, who seemed lost in thought while sat on hers.
"Thought today went pretty good."
"...Yes, it was."
She looked over to him before he could get her attention a second time.
"You okay."
"Remember when we were going to the training rooms and then I couldn't come for some time because I was needed for something?
"Yes."
"Well, while we were walking there, I sensed that we were being followed, so I made up the excuse so I could find out who was tailing us.
Turns out, it was Blake."
"Blake?" What did she want? And why follow us."
"I never asked why she followed, but she did want to talk to me... about you."
"I had a feeling this was going to happen, and really this might be a good thing."
"There's something else."
"Oh, and what's that?"
"Call it intuition, or I haven't fully realised how complex my software is, but I think there's more than one reason why Blake wants to get to know you."
"You think it might be related to last night?"
"Potentially."
"Well, I think that maybe Blake and I are going to get acquainted in the near future."
Look who finally decided to return to writing...
Almost an entire year (actually approaching one year since last update), but yes I am back...or did I even leave?
No to be honest I know I've said this in the past but I have been stuck with this one in a while, and with the pandemic, work, playing among us, watching Snow Piercer and getting better at chess, well that's the kind of stuff that pulls you away from fan fics (though you do want continue writing) as well as other fanfics (all of which are RWBY related).
We've had a whole season pass by of RWBY and some other things too.
As you have seen, this chapter was long, and for future readers as stated, this took almost a whole year between publishing/updating, so I decided to give you readers something to bring back in.
I have to thank one of you (I'll keep their name anonymous) for PMing and wondering with some concern as to the status of the story (so I hope I've delivered a worth while read for such a wait).
Thank you all who have read the story in small amounts while I worked on this chapter.
The next few I am looking forward to, and not to give much away but things will start to move in the direction of the other three girls interacting with Zen.
Now any comments about this chapter,
Zen's emblem- just look up a total solar eclipse diamond ring totality, cut off the side half of the eclipse that doesn't have the prominence and that's roughly what it looks like.
Zen's Weapons- Their names are based on the two martian probes launched in 2003 (three weeks apart) Spirit and Opportunity.
So I think that is what I needed to add, and as always, positing this late at night, but I cannot tell you how happy I am to finally get this done.
Happy reading and will see you next time.