Chapter 22:
A calm and peaceful village it was for the Sylphs as the Doctor felt its atmosphere. He enjoyed it because this planet was not filled with threats or disasters but peace and calmness. Following the elder into a cave, the Doctor saw more of his followers sitting together around a fire which meant this was like a council. Pulling out the scroll Team RWBY gifted him and modified to work outside of Remnant, he saw the time and was an hour past the time he was supposed to meet Weiss at the dance. It hurt him and disappointed him but he needed answers first and most important.
Elder Sylph: Come Doctor, sit.
The Doctor: Right, look I'm not here to know about my own future. I just want answers and the fate of this universe. *Sits down*
Elder Sylph: Let the fire rise as we see and listen to the universe. For the one they call the Doctor seeks knowledge from the Sylphs.
The fire grew as smoke begin to surround the cave which was unpleasant for the Doctor as he coughed a few times but for the Sylphs, this was its normal ritual. Soon the Doctor closed his eyes and saw the universe to his surprise, whatever they put into that fire really got him yet he was still fully conscious in his mind. His thoughts were interrupted when he saw the crack again in the illusion of the universe.
Elder Sylph: Multiple Universes exist, different timelines with different outcomes, some are beginning and some are ending. But the crack that you seek Doctor only connects between two universes: Yours and Ours.
The Doctor: Yes, I have realized that since that's where I went through but the questions are how did it come and why is it appearing?
Elder Sylph: Unclear. Unclear. So many possibilities but one thing is for certain, the crack ascended from this universe.
The Doctor: What...
It couldn't be possible; it would have more sense if the crack was a cause from his universe yet the crack was a cause from here. The Doctor was trying to think of possible scenarios. Without the original Doctor around anymore, who knew more about time itself, the Doctor couldn't think of anything.
The Doctor: That can't be possible. I've been here in this universe not that long ago. How is it possible unless...
Elder Sylph: The Future, Doctor. The Future.
The Doctor tried to understand it but all he can think of is that a future event that has yet to take place is the cause of the crack between both universes. And if that crack still remains open...more threats can come...
The Doctor: Fate! What is the fate of this universe, of Remnant!
Elder Sylph: We see that you have a close attachment to that world.
The Doctor: Yes...it is where my friends live. I need to know if they're going to be okay, if nothing happens to them. That crack is bringing in monsters that shouldn't exist here and Remnant is not ready for that.
Elder Sylph: Events are taking shape. You won't make it in time to save them all. One will return to a cage she wished to escape, One will slowly lose their pureness and fill with darkness, One will deal with a suffering worse than loss, and One will be alone once again in her path.
This haunted the Doctor, to hear that something will happen to each member of Team RWBY and he won't make it to save all of them. He refused. He refuses to accept that reality.
The Doctor: No...No I'm not going to let that happen! I'm the Doctor and I save people no matter the cost! I will not let my friends fall into the wrong paths you saw!
Elder Sylph: Do you call yourself the Doctor because that's who you chose to be or simply a boy naming to honor a fallen one.
The Doctor was beginning to become frustrated by what he is being told by the Elder but each time the reality hits him and it's haunting him even more. Was he really the Doctor as he promised the original to be or is he just simply a lost boy that's only carrying the name...
Elder Sylph: But something more is happening, Doctor. Dark Times are coming to this universe. An event that could potentially break this universe to its last glimmer of light.
The Doctor: What do you mean by that?
Elder Sylph: A void of destruction. A void of darkness. A storm that can cause the universe to end including your friends' world and possibly your universe. The End of Time itself could approach.
He got his answers, it just wasn't what he hoped for. It hurt his head and pierced his heart. The crack is a cause from the future on this universe, he won't be able to save his friends and they'll fall, and something big and dangerous is coming. He wasn't so sure anymore what to do. What would the original Doctor do in this situation? And there it was again, thinking about what the Original Doctor would do rather than what would HE do. His light was beginning to slowly go down.
The Doctor: I...think I got all I needed...do take care Elder and the Sylphs. *Walks away*
As the Doctor walked away, the Sylphs council continued their ritual as the Elder senses a greater tragedy to occur.
Elder Sylph: We must prepare ourselves for the darkness that is coming. Prepare for the light that shall save us. One will regain a further strength, one shall overcome her fears, one shall break free in confidence, and one shall earn them all.
Back in the TARDIS, the Doctor arrives as he slowly closes the door and prepares to liftoff. Dalek Khan notices the different mood in the Doctor and approaches him.
Dalek Khan: DOCTOR! What have they told you?
The Doctor: *stays quiet*
Dalek Khan: DOCTOR?
The Doctor: So many things...I got the answers I needed...but not what I wanted...
The Dalek felt that his time lord friend isn't doing well and whatever the Sylphs told him left a mark. Khan without hesitation, inserts the coordinates to Beacon as the TARDIS disappears and travels within space.
Dalek Khan: DOCTOR! You must get ready for the dance.
The Doctor: The Dance, right...*eyes widen* THE DANCE! WEISS!
Back at Beacon, the dance going all night with many students dancing and having fun like Blake and Yang sharing a dance before Yang lets Sun enter the frame. All the students and teachers were around, having a good time. Except for a few...Jaune heads to the refreshment table as he spots Ruby there as well.
Jaune: I see you're hiding at the punch bowl too.
Ruby: YeP.
Jaune: To the socially awkward.
Ruby giggles as Jaune and her clank their drinks and continue watching the dance with someone both in their minds.
Jaune: To my surprise, I don't see Weiss around.
Ruby: Me too actually. I know she was waiting for someone who was her date. *mumbles* Doctor where are you?
Jaune: You know, I think I'm gonna head out and get some fresh air. *Smiles and leaves*
Ruby watches her friend leave as she continues watching the party. A little later, she notices her sister in the second floor and decides to meetup with her upstairs to kill some time.
Yang: You know? I think we really needed this.
Blake and Sun were slowly dancing, Ren and Nora appear to be Waltzing while Penny was dancing alone but having a good time with two Atlas Soldiers.
Ruby: Yeah, and you did a great job planning it too! EUGH! *Gets pulled into a hug* Y-Yang...
Yang: Aw, thanks! *Hugs Ruby tight* It wasn't all me, though. Weiss did a lot too.
Ruby: Is she still outside?
Yang: *sighs* Yeah, she's feeling more down since the Doctor hasn't shown up and we're halfway through the night.
Ruby: I mean Khan did say they were on another planet dealing with something. Plus, he did have some information regarding Mountain Glen but he was going to talk with us tomorrow. He said he wanted to make sure we all had fun.
Yang: Well the fun isn't gonna last if he doesn't show up! Tomorrow it's back to work.
Ruby: I'm sure we can handle whatever gets thrown at us. *Hears laughter and eyes widen* Ex-cept for that.
The cause of the laughing infestation was approaching Pyrrha and she turned around to her shock to see Jaune in a white dress.
Pyrrha: J-Jaune!...
Jaune: Eh, a promise is a promise.
Pyrrha: Pffff...*giggles then laughs* Jaune! You didn't have to!
Jaune: Hey, an Arc never goes back on his word. *Takes out hand* Now do you wanna stand there and laugh at me, or do you wanna dance?
Pyrrha: *smiles softly* I would love to dance.
Jaune pulled Pyrrha for a dance as everyone watched the pair with a mix of laughs and cheers. Ruby and Yang couldn't believe it as well as Ren and Nora.
Nora: Ren... This... is... happening!
Ren: Wait, what "is happening"?
Nora grabs Ren and drags him out to the dance floor with Pyrrha and Jaune as all of Team JNPR performs a short and amazing choreographed dance, ending with Jaune spinning Pyrrha. Eventually, the party was back in place once Sun and Blake join the dance and Penny dancing with an Atlas guard doing the robot dance.
Pyrrha: I had no idea you were a dancer.
Jaune: Yeah, well, these things tend to happen when you grow up with seven sisters.
Yang decided to join in on the fun as well while Ruby shy and not knowing how to dance decided to go outside to get some fresh air and perhaps find Weiss if she's still alone. As the dance was glowing and rocking, a pair was watching everyone from afar while maintaining cover: Emerald and Mercury. While afar from the building was Cinder in a cat like burglar outfit was jumping through buildings heading to the CCT System Tower
Emerald: It appears all the dancers have partners.
Cinder: And the Doctor?
Emerald: *bites lips and sighs* No sign of him.
Cinder: *heard via ear-bud and grunts* How long do I have?
Mercury: If he's out there and we don't know where he is, I'd say do it as fast as you can and be back soon.
Cinder: I'll keep my eye on the clock and my surroundings.
Ruby, walking out of the dance and into the night air spotted a lonely Weiss sitting on the floor sad and tired which pained Ruby. She was going to approach her until she noticed a figure running along the rooftops which led Ruby following to pursue. As Ruby left, a tired and saddened Weiss as slowly falling asleep as she felt heartbroken that the Doctor never showed up for the dance. She truly believed he would show up and have a night of their lives. But instead, she's out in the cold, alone, and sad while everyone else parties inside. That is until she heard a familiar mechanic noise which woke her up entirely as she stood up to see the TARDIS apppearing in front of her.
Weiss: Doctor! Grr...DOCTOR! *Bangs on the door* YOU REALLY LEFT ME OUT IN THE COLD THINKING YOU WOULDN'T MAKE IT!
The Doctor: Sorry about that! *Opens door* Traffic was...something.
The Doctor looked at his closest companion that left him in awe seeing her look so stunning and beautiful with her white dress as well; He felt he was seeing a star. Weiss felt the same for once seeing the Doctor with a different outfit than his usual: A Maroon red Crombie coat with white collared shirt, black dress pants, and black dress boots while wearing a red tie. It left her in awe seeing how handsome he's always been.
Weiss: *sighs* You really had me thinking you ditched me or forgot...
The Doctor: I'm sorry, it's been a...rough day...
Weiss: *looks at him softly and holds his hand* Perhaps a dance would lighten that up.
The Doctor: *looks at her and smiles* Maybe. But as much as the dance looks packed, you might like the place I have for our dance.
Weiss was about to question what the Doctor meant before being pulled into the TARDIS unexpectedly as it begins to disappear once again releasing its mechanical noises which were heard by a few people inside the ballroom as the music went to slow music. Blake and Yang looked at each other with a smile as they knew what noise it was and what it meant.
Yang and Blake: Doctor!
The name was caught by Emerald and Mercury which shocked them placing into panic then noticing General Ironwood preparing to leave with some of Atlas guards which gave the duo more stress and pressure.
Emerald: *via earbud* Emerald to Cinder, can you hear me?
Cinder: *sighs* What now Emerald?
Emerald: A party guest is leaving.
Cinder: Which one?
Emerald: Ironwood.
Mercury: I guess the General had enough fun for one night. Should we intervene?
Cinder: No... We're done here.
Cinder smirked and looked around to see the beaten guards on the grounds and looks up to a random code appearing on a computer screen changing into a Queen chess piece.
Emerald: Then hurry up and get back. The Doctor is around, I heard the Faunus and Blonde mention him.
That smirk soon disappeared from Cinder's face meaning the Doctor was here and can appear at any moment and reverse the program she did on the computer. Shocked and enraged, she scolds Emerald.
Cinder: Why didn't you tell me THAT FIRST?!
The scolding stopped when she heard the elevator doors open and went into hiding. Her first thoughts were that he got there and was going to either fix the system or look for her. She heard the footsteps get closer and closer as she didn't know whether to try fighting or make a run. When she peeks, her fear goes all away when she doesn't see the Doctor but instead Ruby Rose.
Ruby: Hello? Is anyone there? Hello?
Cinder knew she could finish this girl off with ease; she rises from her hiding place and steps out to confront Ruby.
Ruby: Excuse me? You know, it's not a masquerade party, so why don't you take off that-!
Cinder wasted no time as she pulls a container of dust from her belt expelling a cloud that glows. A fight occurs between the two womans as Ruby defends herself then opens fire but Cinder blocks each shot with her hand as parts of the outfit glow. She then brings out a pair of blades as Ruby launches herself forward but Cinder dodges. Cinder, using her fast reflexes combines the blades into a bow and fires three arrows. Ruby stumbles back from the resulting explosion and they stare each other down. But their fight is interrupted by the appearance of General Ironwood on the elevator. Ruby is happy to see the general and get some help but by that time, Cinder has disappeared.
Ruby: No...
Back at the dance, the party was still going all out just as midnight approaches. Jaune and Pyrrha are sitting at a table, Sun and Blake are dancing, Nora sleeping on Ren's shoulder, and Yang looking around for Ruby. Emerald and Mercury are still dancing together until someone taps Emerald's shoulder.
Cinder: Oh, may I cut in?
It was Cinder back at the dance now, this time wearing a black dress. Emerald steps aside and walks away as Cinder now takes the dance floor with Mercury.
Mercury: And how's your night been?
Cinder: Mmm... a little more challenging than expected.
Mercury: Should we be worried?
Cinder: Hardly... They'll be scratching their heads long after we finished what we came here for.
Mercury: So then what about him?
Cinder: He's the only thing that stops this from being an exciting night. If he fixes the CCT or comes to find us...You know what? Let's forget about it and enjoy the rest of the night. After all, it is a party.
Soon the party would be ending at Beacon but the night was still young for the Doctor and Weiss who is still trying to figure out where the Doctor is taking her for the dance.
Weiss: Y-You know...you look really amazing tonight Doctor.
The Doctor: Ah!...*blushes softly* Thank you Weiss.
That's it? Weiss was expecting a compliment in return but all she got was a thanks which did annoyed her a bit. The Doctor was one of the smartest people she knew but also one of the densest.
Weiss: Um...what do you think of me?
The Doctor: Nothing really Weiss.
Weiss: What?!...
The Doctor: Nothing's different. I mean you've been the most beautiful star I've seen in my life and I've seen actual stars close.
He wasn't the densest, he just already knew she was beautiful to his eyes since the beginning which made Weiss blush red. Then out of the blue, she spotted Dalek Khan approaching them with a red fez on top and a bowtie which made her want to laugh but hold it in cause of how silly he looks for a Dalek of all things.
Weiss: Hi Khan! You certainly seem ready for the evening.
Dalek Khan: Ruby helped me in choosing. A fez and a bowtie. They're cool.
The Doctor: You've been in contact with Ruby a lot, seems like you two are besties now.
Dalek Khan: SILENCE! Only Ruby calls me that! She will help me repair my blaster tomorrow as well.
Weiss: That reminds me Doctor, Khan said you guys have some information.
The Doctor: I do but I'll share them tomorrow with the team. It be better and also not to ruin this night.
The Doctor gave her a genuine smile but hiding behind it was the sadness from all he has learned with the Sylphs. He wasn't going to lose hope and he was going to change the outcomes before it even happens.
Weiss: So where exactly are we heading?
The Doctor: *smiles* Ocean's Sky
Just as she asked the question, the TARDIS lands. Once its set to walk out, Weiss opens the door only to see the most beautiful view she's ever seen. An ocean that reflects the stars all around and glows blue when the waves crashes onto shore. It felt like she was walking in space, this was already looking to be better than Beacon's dance. Catching her off guard, she noticed something wrapped around her neck and when she looks down, she sees a beautiful necklace.
Weiss: Doctor...
The Doctor: The beauty of this universe in the palm of a necklace. I thought it would fit you so well.
Weiss was left speechless as she kept staring at the necklace, taking a closer look to see the universe in it. It looked like it was the actual universe in her hands then blushes lightly and turns around to hug the Doctor tightly.
Weiss: Thank you Doctor. I... couldn't have asked for any other big adventure like this...and with you. *Looks up at him*
The Doctor smiles as he hugs his ice queen companion back before grabbing her hand taking her inside a cave which revealed to be like a ballroom shocking her once again. Creatures and Humans alike being around chatting, laughing, drinking, dining, and dancing.
Weiss: I really need to stop thinking everything that looks small on the outside is small on the inside. How did you even find this place?
The Doctor: Exploring!
Weiss: Not surprised. *giggles*
The Doctor: Reservation for three please!
Weiss: Three?
The Doctor: Us and Dalek Khan.
Dalek Khan: There is an all you can eat buffet! I will take advantage of that!
The Doctor: Oi, don't go too wild!
Weiss gives out a giggle as her and the Doctor head to their table while Dalek Khan heads to the buffet area.
Weiss: I think Ruby has done some changes to Khan.
The Doctor: Could be. It's also him finally being open and free to do whatever he wants. He's still a Dalek but he's a friend, ally, and good alien at heart.
Weiss: You both saved each other in the Time War. Travelled across space and time for who knows how long. And most importantly, you trust each other so well.
The Doctor: A bad Dalek if you ask me.
Weiss: Uhh shouldn't it be a Good Dalek?
The Doctor: That would mean he's doing his job as a killer alien.
Weiss: I... didn't think of that through.
The Doctor: Meanwhile, you finally gone soft with your team.
Weiss: Mmmm...fine. I have. They're still crazy...but I trust them very much. They're beginning to be like my sisters.
The Doctor: A second family basically.
Weiss: *smiles* Yeah...you're right Doctor! Now, how about you tell me how you got this beautiful necklace.
The duo continued talking for most of the time, dined some of the best alien food in Weiss opinion, and Dalek Khan returned with a stack of food which made the Doctor shocked and Weiss laughing. The Doctor couldn't help but smile at seeing Weiss so happy. Ever since meeting a little over a month ago (about 4 months in terms of space and time), while it was a rocky start, they both began a strong friendship building on trust, comfort, support, and confidence. Slowly that friendship was blooming into something more and they both felt it. And tonight, was definitely a night to remember. Because for the very first time, the Doctor didn't like Weiss as just his friend, he loves her.
The Doctor: *looks at the time and smiles* Weiss Schnee, would you care for a dance?
Weiss: *blushes but smiles* I thought you never ask.
The Doctor brings Weiss to the dance floor as few other pairs began to approach as well. Out of nowhere, the ground shook which startled Weiss thinking there was an attack until they began to levitate.
Weiss: W-Whoa! What's going on?
The Doctor: Just don't let go of my hand. *smiles*
Weiss felt those words hit her heart and held the Doctor's hand tight as they continued to levitate to the ceiling which opens to reveal the beautiful sky of the universe which once again left Weiss in awe. The song began to play as the pair got into their dance formation up in the beautiful sky.
The Doctor: Saved the best part for last for our dance.
'Cause you're a sky, 'cause you're a sky full of stars
I'm gonna give you my heart
'Cause you're a sky, 'cause you're a sky full of stars
'Cause you light up the path
I don't care, go on and tear me apart
I don't care if you do, ooh-ooh, ooh
'Cause in a sky, 'cause in a sky full of stars
I think I saw you
Everything around them felt like it was stopped and only they were moving. Dancing with the person they love most under the stars could never be topped off for the perfect dance. The beat to the song matched their movements as they continued to have fun.
'Cause you're a sky, 'cause you're a sky full of stars
I wanna die in your arms, oh, oh-oh
'Cause you get lighter the more it gets dark
I'm gonna give you my heart, oh
As they continued dancing the night away, Weiss thoughts were only clouded by the memories of her and the Doctor: Their first meeting, rescuing her from the Nightmare Grimm, their first adventure together, their fun, crazy, and risky adventures, but most importantly: being with him. He was the first person to break her chains and set her free, his smile, laugh, kindness, dorkiness, bravery, determination, and heart is what made Weiss realize she doesn't like the Doctor as her friend...she loves him. Taking one deep breath, she looks up at the time lord and he looks down at her in return
I don't care, go on and tear me apart
I don't care if you do, ooh-ooh, ooh
'Cause in a sky, 'cause in a sky full of stars
Weiss: Doctor...*leans in*
I think I see you
The Doctor: Weiss...*leans in as well*
I think I see you
And within that moment of this beautiful dance, the fireworks came to the scene. Just not the fireworks they were expecting as their trance was broken by the sight of a meteor shower occurring which left the crowd and dancers looking in awe including the Doctor and Weiss. Even though it didn't happen like they both hoped, Weiss wasn't going to let that slide. A little bit of confidence and wrapping her arms around his neck, Weiss gives the Doctor a kiss on the cheek before burying her face onto his chest and closing her eyes.
'Cause you're a sky, you're a sky full of stars
Such a heavenly view
The Doctor was left by surprise once again and blushing by the sudden kiss Weiss gave him even though he hoped it would be a different kiss. Seeing her shy and avoiding to look at him, he would only wrap his arms around her waist and closes his eyes to enjoy the moment.
You're such a heavenly view
Yeah, yeah, yeah, ooh
Weiss: *mumbles quietly* I love you...
The Doctor: *mumbles quietly* I love you.
The song came to an end and led to a round of applause by the viewers and dancers except for our main duo as they continued holding each other and enjoying the moment while slowly coming back to the ground. Once landed, the time lord and ice queen looked at each other before smiling and sharing a good laugh.
Weiss: Thank you... so so much Doctor. That was the most beautiful and breathtaking dance.
The Doctor: The actual dance with me or the view of the universe? *winks*
Weiss: *giggles* Both silly.
Unbeknownst to the two, Dalek Khan watched and recorded everything with his eyestalk before transporting it like a file and sending it to his red hood best friend.
Dalek Khan: They are going to enjoy seeing that!
After spending about another hour at Ocean's Sky, the pair left as the Doctor sets his coordinates back to Remnant. Looking back at Weiss, she was already falling asleep on a chair after the time she had as the Doctor places his coat around her like a blanket.
Dalek Khan: You seem to be more positive than earlier.
The Doctor: You could say that earlier I want to forget but thankfully, going to the dance with her and having good time helped me relax. After this, back to exploring and... Then, it's time we go back to Mountain Glen to see what exactly is haunting that ghost town and I do fear it's something beyond their guesses.