Chapter 28: Overcoming the Past
Ruby's scroll rang its alarm, eliciting a groan as she pressed a button to cease the ringing that pounded her ears and slowly stood upright in her hotel bed and rubbed her eyes. While her 2 hour nap worked wonders in getting rid of her soreness, it still left her with a feeling of nausea and a headache.
"Damn it… I really need my 8 hours." She groaned as she weakly pushed the covers off her and headed for her bathroom. Even if she felt dizzy, a little antacid and headache pill coupled with a hot shower would be all she needed to wake up fully. Despite her irritations, she couldn't help but feel a little excited for the party tonight with Cana, Erza, Jenny, and Mira. The way they praised it made it seem like the nightclub they went to a month ago feel more like a kids birthday party. What really sold Ruby was the food being raved about by Cana. Her stomach was rumbling, she honestly didn't eat much since camping in the sector 5 quadrant. Cana always showed her and the girls the best restaurants in Atlas so Ruby knew she could be trusted to pick a nice meal.
"Fuck, anything's better than trail mix right now." Ruby sighed in the shower, letting the hot water alleviate the discomfort in her to a degree. It wasn't just the mix that tasted like chalk that brought down her mood; it was that whole experience back at sector 5 and vale. She really trusted her team to act professional for their first mission and look what happened.
Yang disrespected Oobleck, they all disobeyed her orders, and worst they made the White Fang accelerate their terrorist attack. As Signal pointed out, it could have all been prevented had WBY just listen to her. So many people died today, yes terrorists but that was still a lot of people they could have interrogated for Intel. Now that Intel was lost because WBY didn't trust her to lead them. She felt it was a bit sweet to hear them care about her safety, but that showed they completely lacked faith in her abilities, just as she shouldn't have had faith in them to do their jobs right. Now Ruby was going to have to talk with Blake and drag her into this investigation, but a dark thought was creeping into Ruby's head as she got out of the shower and did her hair.
"Can Blake even keep her mouth shut?" She thought bitterly.
While Blake was certainly no stranger to secrets, something Ruby clearly fired back at the cat emo when confronting her back at Beacon for talking smack about her, Ruby knew she was closer to Yang and Weiss than her by a long shot. She didn't put it past her to share with those 2 things Ruby didn't know.
After all, she certainly was more than willing to gang up on her with those 2 than stick up for Ruby, another in the long list of things irritated Ruby about her. Despite this, Ruby couldn't find it in her to want anything bad happening to Blake, she felt imprisonment from Atlas was a risk to getting her help, despite the generals promise, and was honestly grateful Litchi and Sindel spared her team that fate when chewing them out for their recklessness. The thought of those 3 rotting in a cell wearing the same orange suits as Cinder and the others brought shivers to Ruby's spine.
"Thank God I have the best bosses in the world." Ruby silently said as she let the warm water ease her aching muscles and headache.
As Ruby got out of the bathroom to get changed, she checked her scroll for new messages and saw only 1 this time, from her Uncle Tai. Ruby felt a pit in her gut as she had a feeling he was going to bombard her again with demands to quit her job and go back to Beacon. She rolled her eyes in annoyance and sighed.
Her Uncle's overprotectiveness reminded her of Yang's, hell it wasn't just looks the two Xiao Long's had in common it was their nosy attitudes. She honestly feared if she ignored his message again, he would keep blasting her scroll and annoying her tonight with constant calls and buzzing.
"Lets just get this crap over with already, then I can get on with my night and my life." She bitterly groaned as she reluctantly opened the message, only for her eyes to widen a bit before tearing up at something she never expected to read from him.
Heard from your dad about that attack on Beacon. Great job saving the school sweetie, I'm proud of you. Be sure to keep killing it at work, I know you can do it. Love you.
Ruby gasped a bit as she choked on sobs, overwhelmed with joy at his support. As much as she wanted to call back, she had plans tonight and knew he'd drown her in hours long chatter, honestly he rivaled Doctor Oobleck at times with his rants and lectures, especially when he was in a mood, good or bad. Ruby instantly started typing but made sure to keep her party plans out of it to avoid said lectures. She knew how to party responsibly, unlike Yang and her team. So she replied…
Glad to hear that. You're the best Uncle ever! Long day at work today so im (ZZZZ emoji) so im going to (bed icon)(Heart Emoji) you!
Ruby eyed the scroll for a minute and saw him simply reply
Love you two sweetie (heart and crying emoji), goodnight.
Ruby laid on her back on her bed and sighed as she felt a huge wave of relief flood over her. Not only did she avoid a lecture, seeing her uncle's words of encouragement made her feel absolute bliss. After days of being pestered by her team it was a godsend to be spared of more of it from him at least. Qrow must have really talked some sense into him and got him to get off her back. Since her team wasn't bombarding her with messages either tonight she felt confidant tonight was going to be a perfect night to party. She checked her scroll and saw it was 6:30 PM before plopping it on the bed.
"Okay! Half an hour to go, time to look sexy!" Ruby said as she patted her cheeks and bolted for the bathroom to apply blush and eyeliner.
She picked out her outfit for tonight, a pair of black jeans and a black and red long sleeve shirt that complimented her shadow-like eyeliner and light red lipstick she bought at the hotel gift shop. She honestly never liked applying lipstick, but couldn't deny how fitting it looked on her with all her other makeup and hair.
After 20 minutes of getting dressed, ironing her hair, and applying her beauty products, Ruby burst out her door to meet up with Mira at the lobby. As the elevator descended, her stomach was giving off a loud rumble, making her blush heavily and silently sigh with relief no one was around to hear it. As the doors opened, Ruby gazed upon her teammate Mira waving at her and couldn't help but admire her attire.
Like Ruby, Mira wasn't big on classy wear or using a tone of make-up, instead going light with wearing a bright gold necklace, hoops on her arms, and a light t-shirt, colored blue and white to match her hair, which was as long as Yang's now that she let loose her ponytail she was usually wearing to showcase her desire to cut loose tonight.
"Looking hot Mira!" Ruby applauded her, which Mira returned by quickly glancing up and down at her friend's outfit.
"You too girlfriend! Guess great minds think alike." Mira said with enthusiasm making Ruby chuckle.
"Guess so. Now come on, lets get to the club already! I really hope they have lots of pizza or chicken there, I'm freaking starving already!" Ruby groaned, Mira laughing hard before nodding, taking down Grimm and saving a city worked up a big appetite. They quickly hailed a taxi outside and entered, ready for their night of fun both knew was going to be their last one for a while before getting back to work.
"OFF TO THE CLUB!" They cheered as the cab drove off.
Meanwhile at Beacon Academy
Unlike in Atlas, Beacon wasn't rich with people high in spirits tonight. Glynda Goodwitch herself, felt somber as she eyed on of her closest friends slump in a chair in her office, Doctor Ooblock. She was honestly surprised at his depressed look, the man was usually high in spirits and ranting about historical facts or his day engaging in lectures with students, whom she secretly emphasized with. Even she could find him long-winded and hard to read, but tonight was different, she could sense his despair and had a good idea what is was about.
"So Bart…That battle and train crash really wore you down huh old friend?" Glynda asked with an almost motherly tone causing Oobleck to sigh in grief before taking a deep breath.
"Yes my dear friend, I cannot begin to describe how pathetic I feel right now. Not only did my incompetence as a teacher lead me and those girls to almost ruining Detective Roses investigation, my incompetence as a huntsman endangered many innocents and did cost countless people…. Correction by my report 97 white fang soldiers their lives. Granted they were criminals but they still could have been questioned for Intel that could have proven vital for the Atlas Intelligence unit. Oh lord! I should have just reigned in those girls and trusted Miss Rose more instead of fearing for her safety. It was only through her and those agent's goodwill I narrowly avoided losing my license and getting imprisoned!" Oobleck ranted at a fast pace.
Glynda narrowed her eyes as she pondered his words. Her friend was blaming himself horribly for today's events. Yes, if WBY didn't disobey Ruby's orders then White Fang wouldn't have accelerated their attack and the attack on Vale could have been avoided. They were lucky the countless innocents in the city were spared, just like Ooblock was spared from the wrath of those special agents.
He was indeed very lucky those 2 kept their cool and absolved him; she shuddered at the thought of her friend losing his job and worse, his freedom for those girls' actions. He was indeed responsible in part for their actions since he didn't stop them or obeyed Ruby's orders, but she still felt horrible seeing his pitiful look of sadness as he laid in his chair. She knew he had a guilt complex since his youth, just as she knew she had to get him back on track with a little encouragement and tough love.
"Bart, those girls made their choice, hell they would have regardless if you approved or not. Granted you could be a stricter disciplinarian, and that might have stopped today's events, but what's done is done. You can't change the past." Glynda said sternly but with an amused smirk as she gripped her riding crop, making Oobleck stiffen a bit and sweat nervously, having been on the end of that weapon in the past.
"Y-Yes Glynda. I do always preach to students about learning from the past…. I guess I should take my own advice." Oobleck said nervously making Glynda chuckle.
"Well, if you want to make things right and learn to be a better disciplinarian, maybe you can start now?" Glynda said causing Oobleck to raise an eyebrow curiously.
"How so?" He asked.
"A teacher's duty is to instruct, sometimes that means raising your voice, asserting dominance much like an animal that goes against its pack leader. A little roar, or tough love and force in our case can intimidate the reckless and rebellious. Make sure to do that with the students from now on, just as you should have more faith in skills rather than instincts." She said.
"Instincts Glynda?" He asked confused.
"Like you said before, you allowed your fear for Miss Rose's safety to cloud your judgment as a huntsman. Her job was to be a scout, and she is a damn good one by what those Special Agents told me, and should have been trusted to do her job. You and those girls didn't exactly show that since you all assumed she would get into trouble despite there being no evidence to back up your gut feelings." She said sternly. Oobleck's eyes widen once hearing this, before he hung in head in shame, realizing she was right.
"Indeed. I saw Detective Roses evolved skillset, she was indeed impressive being able to kill hordes of Grimm with deadly accuracy, no doubt from her superb eyesight that exceeded even mine seeing as how it took me 3.4 seconds to identify the approaching monsters after she already did. I should never have allowed my fear of losing a student to cloud my judgment. I should have asserted authority over her team and admonished them for doing so as well.
We showed an utter lack of teamwork and faith in her and I cannot be more ashamed. She certainly deserves our full trust seeing as how she led us to saving Vale from that attack flawlessly. I'll be sure to jot down your words of wisdom and implement them in my future classes with rebellious students. Thank you my dear!" He ranted as he quickly wrote down on his notebook before darting out of the office to Glynda's amusement, seeing his old cheerful self return at the prospect of learning, just as she planned.
After he left, Glynda sighed but couldn't help but smile. Ooblock was correct about Ruby's maturity, but even so Glynda couldn't help but feel almost nostalgic. A part of her did want the old sweet Ruby back like her team desired, but as much as she was having trouble getting used to the new attitude she couldn't deny the girls change was for the best.
She couldn't imagine the little girl who was fidgeting when Ozpin interviewed her could have ever kept her cool during today's chaotic situation yet now she showed skill and calmness that rivaled professional huntresses. She just really hoped things wouldn't worsen between her and her team.
Though Blake and Weiss seemed to finally understand how horrible their behavior was towards Ruby, she certainly didn't expect Yang to change anytime soon considering her outburst, hell another one was surely on the way. Glynda formed a bitter frown as she groaned in annoyance at the blond brawlers attitude and cursing earlier; it made her stomach burn with rage having been treated with such disrespect.
"And Ruby has to live with that everyday, good lord." Glynda said exasperated at the thought of such a lifestyle.
Meanwhile….
"We'll be arriving at Beacon airfield shortly, please fasten your seatbelts as we may experience turbulence as we begin our landing." The flight attended said over the intercom.
Yang was on a bullhead back to Beacon. She was breathing heavily and rubbing her hands nervously as she drew closer to her fate.
"God! Goodwitch is really going to let me have it when I get back." Yang groaned, she hadn't forgotten how she yelled at the professor to "Shut Up" and stormed out of her office after that last tantrum and she knew the professor wasn't going to forget anytime soon.
She was trembling as she could imagine how much that riding crop was going to sting when Goodwitch would no doubt smack her with it for her disrespect. Despite this, she felt an even worse pain coming her way as she braced herself for when Ruby returned as later.
"Okay, what do I say to her, "Hey cousin"….blah! This is so freaking hard." Yang exclaimed with disgust. It just rolled off the tongue horrible calling the little girl she regarded as her sister for years as her cousin. The revelation still left a bitter knot in her stomach that threatened to make her lose her lunch before she shook her head.
"Hell no, I ain't vomit boy keep it together Yang remember what dad and Qrow told you!" She yelled at herself, holding her head with her hands as she sighed, desperately trying to get the anxiety and stress out of her, but it was difficult. Her dad and uncle told her the truth, well really lots of truths. How Ruby was her cousin as well as how unfair Yang had treated her, and worst of all how it was basically impossible right now to be forgiven for her transgressions.
She would need to give Ruby space, but the more she pondered this reality the more the knot in her tightened. She wanted nothing more than to just give a big warm hug to Ruby and see a smile from her that meant everything was okay, but shivered as all she could really imagine was that icy glare and frown her cousin had lately been showing. It stung worse than any smack to her face Goodwitch's riding crop could give her. She honestly wished she just took her dads offer to spend the night at home and rest and cursed herself for prioritizing apologizing to her professors and cousin over that.
"Fine, lets just rip it off quick like a band aide then." Yang groaned as the bullhead landed and rocked her a bit in her seat. As she unstrapped her seatbelt and exited the hanger, she was met by non-other than Goodwitch herself, smacking her own hand with that ridding crop, making the Xiao Long girl shake fearfully, afraid to step out or say even a word. Goodwitch smirked as she saw the fearful reaction, and she slowly advanced towards the girl since she clearly wasn't coming out anytime soon.
"Glad to see you have returned Miss Xiao Long." Glynda said a bit cheerfully as she drew close to Yang and lightly tapped her crop at the latter's nose before giving a dark smile that made Yang pale as the moon. Goodwitch's smile lied about her true feelings, she was pissed off.
Yang was shivering as she imagined how bad her punishment for that tantrum earlier would be her Expulsion or… God no! Let Ruby shave her head maybe? Yang grabbed her hair and panicked a bit thinking of those possibilities. Her panic pleased Goodwitch, but even the strict disciplinarian felt exhausted handling the fallout of todays events and decided to save this for tomorrow yet couldn't resist making Yang squirm more.
"Dorm Room, NOW!" Glynda hollered, jolting Yang and making her run for dear life for her room, not even bothering to argue the punishment as Goodwitch's fierce tone and glare squashed any will to do so. Glynda soon followed her back to the dorm, as they made it to Team Rwby's room, Yang paused herself as she held the doorknob. Goodwitch raised an eyebrow curiously.
"Something on your mind Miss Xiao Long?" She asked, but Yang remained unresponsive.
"Just want me to "shut up" again?" Goodwitch asked almost mockingly as she folded her arms, getting impatient with Yang's odd behavior before almost getting startled as the blond brawler whipped around, revealing a somber face.
"I'm sorry." She whispered.
"I'm sorry what was that?" Glynda asked as she placed her hand to her ear, despite having actually heard it. Yang's pride be damned, Goodwitch wanted an apology and she was going to make Yang bleed her heart out while giving it. Blake and Weiss clearly felt much better when they did this earlier today, and knew if Yang was to get on better terms with Ruby she'd have to let out her frustrations and acknowledge her foolishness just the same.
Yang grit her teeth while shaking her fists a bit, she was clearly struggling to swallow her pride and do that. Her family she had no problem letting out her feelings too, but she always had trouble doing the same with people she wasn't close too, even teachers.
"It's getting late and I'm tired. Something you want to say sometime tonight miss Xiao Long? Glynda asked. Yang let out a huge exhale as she struggled to let it out.
"Okay…. I'm sorry I spoke out of turn earlier. I should have respected you just like I should have respected Ruby. My dad and Uncle let me have it too at home. It's just… she's my sis- no my cousin is all." Yang bitterly commented, catching herself as she revealed her knowledge of Ruby being her cousin not her sister to Goodwitch's shock. She never expected Qrow and Tai to tell her the truth.
"I-I see… so you finally learned the truth. Is the big sister talk going to change?" She asked nervously, trying to be delicate considering the family drama that honestly wasn't her business.
"No. I'm always going to look out for Ruby but… your right. I can't snoop into her love life. I can't insult her leadership just because I'm scared anymore. She's not a baby anymore and I shouldn't have given her or you crap for wanting otherwise…. I'm sorry." She sadly said.
Glynda smiled as she placed a comforting hand on Yang's shoulder to her surprise.
"Apology accepted, just make sure when you see your cousin you say the same thing. AND BE RESPECTFUL." She sternly said, urging her to remember to give Ruby space like she did with the others, but felt the need to be stricter on that notion, considering Yang's hard headedness. Yang merely nodded silently as she sadly returned to her dorm room. A knot was in her stomach as she desperately desired her cousin's companionship, but remembered Goodwitch and her Uncle's words of wisdom to give her space. It was going to be a long sleepless night ahead for her that was for sure.
The next morning in Atlas
At 8 AM, Ruby was alone in the room as she sat at her desk at the Intelligence Unit, rubbing her stomach and groaning in pain. She was having stomach cramps as a result of last nights visit to the new lounge with her friends. Despite the dim purple and red lights flashing in the gala like dance room with luxury recliners at golden tables, upbeat rock music played by a DJ, and fountains filled with soda instead of water, Ruby and her friends had ignored all of that as soon as the bouncer let them in.
"I'M FREAKING STARVING!" Ruby whined as she entered raising her hands in air, a sentiment the girls whole-heartedly replied in kind, especially Mira who was as equally tired and hungry as her Beacon friend.
"Then quick, lets grab that booth before-" Mira said before dejectedly lowered her finger she pointed at the booth which soon became occupied by a group of guys. "Never mind" she groaned as she and Ruby pouted, but Erza and Cana just laughed hysterically.
"Girlfriends its amazing despite having boyfriends and looking hot you don't know how to take advantage of that. Let a pro show you how it's done." Cana said confidently as she strolled over to the booth those guys just took. They were eyeing her, specifically her chest, which was partially exposed from her black glittered dress shirt, a tool she hoped would work in her favor.
"Sup boys, my girls and I were wondering if these seats were taken?" She asked with a flirty tone, making the guys smirk as they became enamored with her gorgeous looks, simply shacking their heads.
"N-No way, we can make room." A guy with blonde hair wearing a blue vest said as he motioned the guys to scoot over for Cana, who beckoned the girls with her finger, signaling them to approach. The guys eyed the girls, even Ruby, with dirty aroused looks. Though they kept smiles on their faces, the girls were all willing themselves not to barf in their mouths as these pigs looked at them like pieces of meat. Ruby in particular really wishes Seth were here to bash their heads in or push them away like he did the last time she was hit on at a club. They were all hopeful Cana's ploy would pay off soon lest they, lest they get their hands dirty and pummel these pigs themselves.
Cana, sensing their discomfort, knew it was better to get this over with quickly before she pissed her friends off more.
"Oh, can you boys scoot over just a bit more?" She said as they slowly walked out the booth, not taking their pervy eyes of the girls as they did so. The girls quickly took the discarded booth and instantly ceased their fake smile and gave either dirty looks or smug smirks at the boys, who shook their heads to awake themselves from their stupor as they realized what happened.
"Thanks boys, sorry were already taken but it was sweet of you to give us seats. Sure any other girls going to be soooooo lucky to date you. Bye-bye." Cana laughed as waived them off, but the blond boy's face turned red from rage as he realized the deception.
"You little ugly BITCH! I oughta-" He yelled as he raised a fist towards Cana to strike before Mira pounced from her seat and grabbed it, soon transitioning into her demon form with her semblance and giving him a smile and death glare that showed anything but happiness.
"You wanna see ugly, how about I show this club ugly with your guts sprayed around huh?" She asked with a demonic tone that made the boys pale as a baby's bottom as they ran out the club crying like babies in fear. The girls all laughed hysterically as Mira went back to normal and sat down.
After that altercation they all ordered their meals. It really felt so good for Ruby and Mira at the time, despite feeling a slimmer of guilt their friends paid for it all as a reward for saving Vale yesterday, getting to gorge themselves on pizza and having a big molten chocolate lava cake with vanilla ice cream and chocolate chip cookies felt freaking awesome… at least at that time it did. It didn't help her acid reflux now especially when she admittingly went overboard doing Hookah lamps with the girls on top of that.
"Damn it! Why did the food have to be so *burp* fucking good." She groaned as she let out a small burp that made her blush in embarrassment. "Glad no one heard that." She said sheepishly before giving off a squeak when a pair of hands covered her eyes. She trembled a second, wondering who could have gotten the drop on her and almost instinctively reaching for Crescent Rose on her back before a familiar voice soothed her.
"Guess who babe!" Seth said as he released her eyes and gave her a warm smile as he knelt next to her.
"SETH!" Ruby exclaimed as she ignored her stomach pain and jumped from her seat onto his chest, planting a kiss on his lips. She was really grateful no one else arrived yet as she and her boyfriend made out for a minute, which felt like an eternity of bliss to Ruby despite her confusion as they reluctantly separated.
"What are you doing here? I-I mean I'm thrilled to see you but I thought you had a mission in Haven?" she asked confused.
"General Ironwood called me here, saying he had a special announcement to give you and me. As soon as I heard about you… well, need I say more." Seth said with a flirty tone and Ruby giggled. She could just imagine him dashing on foot for hours through Haven forests just to get here for her sake. For the month they dated she knew at least one thing about Seth.
"When you want something Seth, nothing stops you." She said with a bright smile.
"Hey, that's what you love about me right?" Seth growled with a cocky grin that Ruby gave in kind before giving him a peck on the lips.
They hugged each other, feeling the warmth of their body's sooth the cold of the room and the discomfort in Ruby's stomach from overeating. They were about to engage in another make out session before hearing footsteps approach and instantly broke off the hug and blush, Ruby patting her hair down to make sure she looked presentable.
They had decided long ago to keep their work and dating lives together separate and cursed themselves internally for their display of affection in the office, hopeful their superiors didn't see that. Their hopes were dashed however when Spindel and Litchi walked in the big grins on their faces.
"If you two lovebirds could be so kind as to take your eyes off each other and place them on General Ironwood over here that'd be much appreciated." Spindel teased making the teens blush until their faces were red as tomatoes. Spindel and Litchi were grinning like crazy, enjoying the hell out these two's embarrassment.
They knew all along about their relationship and, while normally would discourage romance in a police unit due to the dangers of personal feelings clouding judgment, Ruby and Seth had shown time and time again they took their professions seriously and could be trusted to balance their love and work life so kept their mouths shut.
They soon quickly stepped aside from the entrance as they saw the General enter and saluted him. Ruby and Seth instantly straightened up to present themselves to their superior, despite their faces still flushed, as they all gave him their undivided attention.
"Attentive as always, no wonder you were chosen for this unit. The other night was no different, you both certainly prove your worth constantly." Ironwood praised them, making Ruby blush even more from the flattery.
"T-Thanks General, though ugh… may I ask why we were called her? Did something happen in the case?" Ruby asked confused. She honestly hoped it was the case so she might not have to get Blake involved after all.
"Nothing's changed I'm afraid. It looks like you'll need to speak with your friend about that later after all Detective Rose." Ironwood denied with an empathetic tone, he could see her frown form and knew this ordeal was tough for the teenager to deal with so he waived his arm towards the door to move his plan for today along, knowing it would brighten the mood.
"It's time you two, please come in now." Ironwood ordered as Mira and Penny came in with bright smiles and carrying black plaques to their chests. Seth could see them jittering, they were obviously excited about whatever it was they were carrying.
"Mira? Penny? What's going on sir?" Ruby asked perplexed. Ironwood merely gave a proud smile as he pressed a button on a computer nearby that sent a signal to the main computer in the room, activating it and showcasing the entire Intelligence unit sitting at their desks at schools, all grinning as they eyed the couple before them with their eyes widen in surprise.
"Without further ado, while I am sorry you all couldn't be here personally, I want to thank the intelligence unit for taking time out of their work and school to witness this ceremony." Ironwood said.
"Ceremony? For what sir?" Seth asked confused.
"I'm glad you asked detective Dryer. You and detective Rose here not only captured Cinder Fall and her cohorts, you also saved Beacon and possibly all of Vale from a terrorist plot the other night. Combined that with Miss Rose's efforts that saved it a second time from the White Fang's attack yesterday, I wanted to present you both with these." Ironwood said as Mira and Penny dashed towards them, trembling as they held back an extremely powerful urge to squeal with excitement as they handed Ruby and Seth their plaques. The two detective's eyes widen in shock as they saw they were the arrest reports for Cinder Fall, Emerald, and Mercury.
"Your first ever police arrest reports and the first ones for this unit! We just had to celebrate this!" Spindel said proudly. The others on the video stream all cheered and clapped for the two as well. Ruby shivered a bit, she was happy to get this praise, but at the same time was nervous being the center of attention. Seth wrapped her in a tight but warm hug as he gave off a big grin from his excitement.
"Isn't this awesome babe!? We're the first detectives to arrest someone, we even got freaking plaques!" Seth exclaimed, his hug and giddy attitude made Ruby laugh a bit; it was a good distraction from her anxiety. Ironwood chuckled a little, enjoying the celebrations unfolding before him.
"That's right Detective Dryer and there's more where that came from." Ironwood said, making Ruby and Seth eye him attentively.
"There's more?" They both thought.
Ironwood soon walked up to them slowly, taking something out of his pocket and patting both their shoulders.
"For exceptional bravery in the face of the enemy and acts of heroism defending the kingdoms, I am rewarding you two with the Atlesian medals of valor. Good job detectives!" Ironwood said as he finished placing the gold medals with a blue and white ribbon on the two bewildered detectives shoulders, making the unit cheer louder than ever. Spindel covered her ears, honestly thinking she'd need a hearing aide after that chorus, though she could still hear and was shocked by what Ruby asked next.
"Wait, this is great but what about Mira, or even agents Diamond and Litchi? They helped me stop the White Fang and Grimm yesterday, don't they deserve this honor too?" Ruby asked. She felt extremely honored by these gifts, but felt it was a group effort and her superiors and friend Mira weren't getting their fair dues. Her concerns were waived off by Mira who merely laughed off her friends concerns.
"Oh don't worry about that girlfriend! The General offered but we turned him down." Mira said warmly, making Ruby and Seth's eyes widen. They were obviously confused why Mira and their superiors turned down rewards they clearly deserved.
"Yeah we just picked up the slack, we never would have known about the White Fang in the first place without your help Ruby. Seth your efforts kept one of our own safe that night at Beacon and helped stop a major terrorist attack. You both were the heroes those days and deserve this honor the most." Spindel said proudly.
"We just all wanted to let you know that before you head back to your schools for your missions." Litchi finished with a warm smile.
Ruby soon began to cry a bit as she was overwhelmed by the praise and smiles sent her and Seth's ways, rubbing the plaque and medal she got tenderly as she rested her head on Seth's shoulders, ignoring Mira's teasing as she felt at peace right now. It really felt like her career was taking off, she was almost like a real huntress now and the respect she was getting she never got in Beacon felt magical to her. She really didn't want to go back, but knew all good things had to come to an end.
A half hour passed and Ruby was soon at the airfield of Atlas preparing to enter a bullhead to go back to Beacon.
"I wish I could go with you babe." Seth whined as they embraced in a tight hug, sharing a few pecks on the lips.
"Likewise honey, but we both got responsibilities. Someone has to whip my team in shape right?" She said while forcing an evil smirk and gripping Crescent Rose, which made Seth give a fake wince. As much as he hated his girlfriend's team, he couldn't help but feel a bit bad for them knowing they were in for a hell of a punishment later.
"Oooooh, I almost feel bad for their asses. Hope mine never get's whipped like theirs." Seth said sheepishly, making Ruby laugh.
"Sorry babe, but both your butts belong to me!" Ruby said with a seductive tone as she gripped his behind, making him jolt before she chuckled and released him only to bring him closer to her as they made out for another minute before reluctantly separating and heading to their bullhead's to go back to their schools.
As Ruby looked out the window to see her boyfriend's ship take off in the distance, she sighed heavily as she braced herself for the heavy conversation waiting her back home. She still felt bad having to get Blake involved despite the mutual mistrust, but there was no way around it.
She could also just imagine the glares of contempt, for whatever stupid ass thing, she was used to seeing by now from them, but the future of Remnant is at stake, they don't deserve fun nights out drinking, they can't keep riding on her for doing her job, and they needed to focus on improving the world and themselves rather than making ass's of themselves like yesterday. As she clenched her scythe in her waist, Ruby thought it was time to get WBY to train and assert her dominance.
At Beacon Academy
WBY was sitting on their bids dejected. They were bored out of their minds. Though Goodwitch didn't punish them with dorm arrest, they felt no energy right now to go to vale for partying, shopping or even talk to team JNPR or CVYI. They still quivered a bit as they felt the rumble in the air Goodwitch's thunderous voice caused when she berated them for their misbehavior.
Yang also felt the sharp gaze of Professor Goodwitch still on her despite her having left hours ago. The shame was suffocating the room they were likely to attract a nevermore, hell they'd welcome that. A little fight to get their minds off the one they had with Ruby.
Blake, for her part, couldn't even find the mood to read her books right now. She wanted nothing more right now than to burst out of what felt like prison and go talk to Ruby and tell her how sorry she was, books be damned.
"Man, it's like waiting to open your birthday presents in here!" Blake groaned, her cat ears down at the same time as she grew ever more impatient waiting for Ruby to return.
"UGH! Don't mention being "presents"! I don't want to feel like a kid…. Even though I know that's how I made Ruby felt. Something she lets me know now, every day." Weiss sighed in grief.
"I hear you Weiss. This sucks hard, but now I think I get how bad this must have felt for Ruby. Waiting hours for us to come back, even if we'd never apologize or make it up to her." Yang said sadly but Blake cut her off guard with a heavy sigh.
"Only difference is, we aren't alone. She was." Blake sighed as Yang and Weiss's eyes widened.
They held their hands to their faces and groaned remembering that detail, though couldn't comprehend why they forgot it at all, Ruby used that against them constantly. Suddenly they turned their attention to the door, which knob began turning from a key being inserted.
"Speak of the devil… No Weiss nice words, nice words." Weiss repeated herself, trying hard not to go back on her promise this time.
As Ruby slowly entered the dorm, fully expecting the usual death glares she had grown accustomed to seeing from them, WBY surprised her as they gave solemn looks at her. Yang, who had also recently returned, in particular had her hands folded as she tearfully walked slowly to her cousin.
"H-Hey…. Co-Cousin." Yang stuttered out before groaning in pain. Weiss and Blake gasped in shock from hearing this revelation. Their expressions said it all,
"COUSIN!?" They thought, the shock being the only thing shutting them up.
Meanwhile, Ruby merely gave her cousin a blank stare before sighing heavily.
"So they finally told you?" Ruby said with an empathetic tone that was met only with a somber nod from her cousin. Despite the strain in their relationship, Ruby couldn't help but feel for her cousin. It was a major shock to her as well and it took all her willpower not to break out crying or screaming back in Atlas when she found out or when she confronted Qrow.
She knew this situation was delicate, but she was going to be firm with Yang and handle it with care like she did with her dad. Yang, despite the immense pressure from the awkwardness consuming her, attempted to open her mouth to say something but bit her lip and almost whimpered as Ruby raised a hand and cut her off.
"Before you fly off the handle, I didn't even know for long. And as for why I didn't say it sooner, it was Uncle Tai and Qrow's secret not mine, so it wasn't my place to tell you. Dad and Uncle Tai needed to be the ones to come clean." Ruby asked, but her reasoning's made Yang feel even worse.
"Ruby, p-please don't call dad Uncle yet. I-It's still really hard." Yang begged softly, but Ruby sighed and shook her head in response.
"Sorry cuz, but I can't keep living a lie. It's just a title to me, besides look on the bright side. At least he told you the truth on his own, I just found out myself by accident." Ruby said, still feeling a lingering burning sensation in her chest from the revelation herself. She couldn't get that lunch with Qrow and his quivering before her like Yang was doing now out of her head. It was honestly as annoying as hearing Weiss's screech just now.
"Cousin? You two are cousins!?" Weiss asked in shock, no longer able to hold in her astonishment. Blake's eyes widened as she leaned forward to focus on this revelation that stunned her as well, but Ruby sighed in annoyance, hating to have to explain her personal life… again!
"That's right. Qrow is my biological father, but his semblance is bad luck so he left me with Yang's dad for safekeeping. Lied to and abandoned me a lot, something his niece clearly learned." Ruby bitterly before slapping her mouth closed. She was internally screaming at herself then and there for letting her frustrations cloud her judgment.
"Damn it Ruby! You said you'd be nice about this now Yang's going to bite your head off!" She thought before tearful eyes of terror from her cousin proved her wrong and shocked Ruby.
"No Rubes I….. No your right, and I-I'm sorry I pushed you away like he did. That I had the nerve to get in your business later about your boyfriend. I know I always spout this big sister mantra crap but don't make it worthwhile when it counts. So I guess it was really always worthless since we're not actually sisters huh?" Yang asked fearful of Ruby's response, but Ruby merely sighed sadly.
"Look. Again, It's just a title, it alone doesn't change our relationship but you did when you got all up in my love life. If you want the mantra to mean anything like our bond again, give my boyfriend and I space. Seth and I are great together; hell we even got medals today for stopping those terrorists together so please give me that at least." Ruby demanded before revealing the medal in her vest pocket to her team, causing her cousin to squeal and bear hug her to her annoyance, dropping it.
"THAT'S MY CUZ FOR YA!" Yang cheered at the top of her lungs as she gripped tighter. Ruby didn't know which hurt worse, the hug or her ears from the ringing.
"Whoa Ruby! You got the Atlesian medal of Valor?! That's one of the highest military accomplishments!" Weiss yelled impressed and shocked as she picked it up and saw it was genuine. She felt a bit of envy infect her. Ruby once again outshined her and worse, it was her own home city that helped that. She shook her head as she remembered Goodwitch and Winter's advice.
"Not a competition, not a competition Weiss." She repeated to herself in her head. Blake soon walked over and saw it to be true, her cat ears perking up as she smiled warmly at Ruby after Yang released her, almost laughing as the red-head gave exaggerated gasps of air.
"Congratulations Ruby! You really deserved it." Blake warmly praised, but soon felt a chill in her spine seeing Ruby avert her gaze solemnly. WBY grew worried; they tried to give her congrats and support like Goodwitch said to but knew it was too soon for the rift to be mended. It still hurt nonetheless to be treated this way when things were getting a bit more positive.
Ruby, on the other hand, was not really angry or annoyed, but still felt heavy as she knew the time had come for her mission. It was just harder asking for help now after seeing her team treat her with respect, though reminded herself the likelihood they were only doing this because Goodwitch ordered them too. This thought made the pain dial down as she slowly met Blake's gaze and approached her. The cat Faunus slowly stepped back a bit in fright, unsure what was coming next.
"Blake, I need to speak with you alone. Please come with me to the private training rooms." Ruby ordered with a stern tone, but one Blake could almost hear the sadness in.
It made her shake a bit in fear, her soul screaming to run away as they walked outside the dorm room. Ruby, however, had grabbed her hand and gripped it tightly like a vice, as if sensing Blake's instincts to run.
Ruby then eyed her cousin and partner, giving a sharp glare that silenced them before they could ask what was going on.
"We'll be back in a bit, STAY!" She hollered, her sharp tone making them all wince as they slowly nodded their heads in fearful compliance. Satisfied, Ruby led Blake out the door, making Yang and Weiss's heart skip a beat as they heard the slam.
"W-What was that all about?" Weiss asked an equally confused Yang who slowly shrugged her shoulders, unsure as well.
"No clue. She can't be madder at Blake right? We all screwed up at the same time back there." Yang said sheepishly. Ruby's new vindictive attitude was disheartening; especially considering a few months ago she easily forgave Blake for the trouble at the docks. But she knew what happened at Vale earlier had a way worse outcome and wouldn't put it past her to vent at them one at a time to avoid interference from the others. It brought a chill to the hot heads spine honestly.
Meanwhile….
After they arrived at the training grounds and entered a private room Ruby booked, she began scouting the room, massaging corners and eyeing the ceiling intensely for some reason that weirded Blake out.
"Ruby? What are you doing? Why are we here anyway?" Blake asked confused.
"Checking for wires. I need to make sure what I ask you in this room, stays in this room." Ruby said as she continued her search.
Blake's eyes widen as she realized she was about to be told something important, it wasn't just another lecture coming her way. Ruby diligently checked every nook and cranny; she just couldn't risk an intelligence leak, not after all the faith Ironwood placed in her. After a few minutes searching the soundproof room, Ruby determined it was safe to begin.
"Now Blake, do you want to earn my forgiveness?" Ruby asked with a stern tone and a glare, making Blake shudder a bit from the surprising question before the proposal hit her.
"Y-Yes Ruby! More than anything just please tell me how. You need anything just name it!" Blake exclaimed. Ruby was glad she picked a soundproof room or else the point of secrecy was useless with that volume.
"Then remember, what I am about to ask you, you can't breath a word of to anyone. Not even Weiss and Yang, ESPECIALLY no them. They don't need to know this and frankly, your the only that can help me. I know how much I made clear it bothered me before, but It's about my investigation, if you think you can't protect Remnant by keeping one more secret, then just walk out that door now." Ruby ordered with a fierce glare that made Blake almost as uneasy as that requests conditions did.
"Ruby… you want me to lie to Weiss, to my partner and keep more secrets? We just grilled you a while ago about secrets. I'm sorry I was such a hypocrite but don't you think this will break up our team relationship even more?" Blake asked a bit angry, frustration creeping into her before a glare from Ruby silenced her.
"That shattered the moment you all pushed me away, insulted me behind my back. You all left me alone when I wanted to be a part of your lives and made me feel ugly about my body and myself just because I was seen as some stupid annoying little girl who wasn't worth your time. Blake, I know I haven't experienced racism like you have, but I know how shitty it feels to be mocked for your body, something we had no control over when we were born.
It makes you feel worthless, or at least angry at everything even yourself for not being "Perfect". Ruby said bitterly, averting her gaze for a moment, though Blake could tell she was tearing up. It weirdly gave the Cat Faunus a bit of comfort internally, happy to find someone she could call a kindred spirit before growing disheartened when she remembered the source of that, something she could tell Ruby was about to remind her of.
"But it's because of that I always thought you'd be the last person to be so shallow and do that to me. That you would stick up for me when Yang mocked my body and voice and tell her how cruel she was, but I guess was wrong, just as I was the other day when I said you guys could be professional." Ruby said bitterly which made Blake grow tearful as she hung her head in shame.
"N-No, I guess not. You were wrong about me. I-I'm not worthy of your trust. I not worth anything just like those bigots always said. Hell I did the same thing they did but I did it to a friend, I did it to you! What reason would you have to want me back and trust me after I betrayed you!?" Blake yelled in sadness and frustration.
Ruby remained silent for a moment, letting her teammate vent her sadness. The sound of her approaching soon startled Blake as she saw her leader slowly raised her hand towards Blake's face, making the cat Faunus close her eyes and wince, bracing for a slap she thought was coming.
Of course, she deserved that as punishment was the thought coursing through Blake's mind, she was a hypocrite and a terrible friend and teammate. To her surprise, Ruby merely grabbed the bow on her head and gently pulled it off, revealing Blake's cat ears she hid before leaving their dorm, and placing a soft hand on her head that startled the cat girl.
"R-Ruby?" Blake asked confused before her leader tenderly rubbed her cat ears and gave her a somber look and frown.
"Blake… Faunus or not I always accepted you and loved you, even when you hurt me. All the secrets, all the lies, even about your very existence, I always accepted them because I thought back then I knew who you were, Blake Belladonna, my teammate and friend. I even risked my dream almost getting arrested and kicked out of Beacon for you. I'd even do it again because deep down that reality hasn't changed.
Yes you betrayed me, and my trust, but it will never be a lie that I still care about you and want us to be like family. Family has each other's back's, so can you please have mine now?" Ruby tearfully said, Blake gasping a bit as she began to feel overwhelmed by these honest feelings she heard from her former friend. It filled her with a sense of self-loathing now more than ever as she realized how right Ruby was; she always had her back even when they fought. Of course she still cared about Blake, how could she ever doubt that?
"Yes Ruby. I'll do whatever you want from me, even if I have to keep this from the others. Not a word leaves my lips I promise, and I'll be damn sure to keep this one." Blake said firmly, bringing a smile to Ruby's face.
"Good, because my unit in Atlas really needs a Faunus's help help to solve this big case we are working on!" Ruby said, making Blake raise her eyebrow curiously
"Why does Atlas need my help? What do I know that could even…." Blake asked before her eyes widened in fright before she gave a sharp glare at Ruby.
"Did you tell them I was part of the White Fang! I thought I could trust you I-" Blake yelled indignantly before a booming voice stopped her in her tracks.
"NO!" Ruby roared and it made Blake step back in fear as Ruby hastily calmed herself.
"Sorry, I didn't mean to shout. I did not rat you out Blake, I would never do that I swear." Ruby said truthfully and Blake decided she could trust her based on her tone.
"A-Am I going to be arrested by the Atlas corps?" Blake asked fearful.
"No! Look, General Ironwood and my bosses already knew you're a faunus and a former white fang soldier because Penny found out and told them. Don't worry! Ironwood said he has no intention putting you away and I'd be damned before I let that happen, especially if you help us. Believe me I was surprised he knew, and I can't believe I never noticed the white fang symbol on your leggings." Ruby said as she pointed to her friend's leg.
Blake groaned as she finally remembered her her modified white fang symbol, she knew she should have covered it a while ago. Going back to Ruby, Blake couldn't help but smile as she realized her leader still looked out for her even after all the crap she and the rest of the girls and JNPR put her through. She knew she had to pay that trust back in kind despite feeling a bit uneasy working with Atlas, a city that looked down on Faunus like her years, but Ruby had to come first.
"Okay fine. I swear if he keeps me out of jail I'll help however I can. And yes, I will keep it secret even from out team, I promise." Blake said seriously.
Ruby couldn't help but smile a bit and nod approvingly, proud at her teammates resolve. While she wasn't sure if she was being honest with herself or Blake when saying she'd forgive her for this help, she certainly felt an urge to give it a good chance. Ruby pulled her scroll out of her pocket and brought it close to Blake's face, making sure she didn't miss a single detail.
"During our investigation, a criminal named Dexter Deshawn was murdered by Cinder and Roman's partner in the White Fang. We are wondering if you might know who this faunus is?" Ruby asked as she showed the photo of the red haired faunus but was careful not to show the video of the murder to avoid scaring Blake.
Blake gave a thousand yard stare as she looked at the identity of the killer, Ruby now having no doubts from her reaction she knew the man.
"Well? Who is he Blake?" Ruby asked sternly, snapping Blake out of her trance as she winced and averted her gaze. Ruby sighed as she could tell this was hard for Blake but needed to know.
"Look, lives are on the line here. We need to capture him or else a force of terror is going to strike Remnant again like Roman and Cinder did. I can't do this without you so please; tell me already if you want my forgiveness Blake." Ruby pleaded with a stern tone. Blake exhaled as she pondered this ultimatum.
A few slow and agonizing minutes for Blake passed before she finally found the strength to speak the truth.
"This is Adam Taurus a lieutenant in the white fang. As for how I know him he's…. my ex boyfriend and partner." Blake winced as she reluctantly admitted, venom in her tone.
Author Notes:
Everyone please thank phantomblaster1, they are now responsible for this story. My life has been so busy that I haven't even had time to think about continuing this story. But thanks to them hopefully we can have this story you all love so much be finished. My thanks to phantomblaster1 again and I will see you next time! #GreenlightVolume10