Here we are at Chapter 10. Things may start getting a little serious here. I do not own RWBY or Genshin Impact. They belong to their respective owners. Here's chapter 10. Enjoy.
Chapter 10: Warning
It's been a few days since the incident in the Forever Fall Forest, and things have been looking up. Cardin and his goons have stopped bullying Jaune, and after a thorough 'chat' with Dehya and Candace, they've left Team RDCN alone as well. With the problem out of the way, Ei and her teammates can go back to peacefully studying at Beacon. Things have also gotten better with Jaune and his teammates as he finally accepted asking for help, which Pyrrha was more than welcome to do. Of course, nothing stays the same forever.
In the library, Dehya is looking for a book for a class paper, wandering through the aisles until he finds it. However, what she finds instead is Blake putting a few books away, and noticing her bow twitch again. Dehya sighs. She's had a good hunch for a while now. Time to pop the question.
"Hey, Blake," Dehya greets her.
Blake turns with a few books in hand, "Oh, hey Dehya. Are you looking for something?"
"Yes and no. Can we talk for a minute? I want to ask you something," Dehya asks.
"Um, sure," Blake looks confused, but goes along with it anyway. They walk off to a quiet corner in the library after putting the books away so they can talk. "So, what did you want to talk about, Dehya?"
"I'm not one to beat around the bush, so I'll just ask: are you a Faunus?" Dehya says it.
Blake freezes upon hearing her, "Uh, what are you talking about?"
"I saw your bow twitching and I had a hunch. You can tell me. I'm a Faunus too, remember," Dehya says.
Blake sighs, "And here I thought I was doing a good job of hiding it,"
"To the untrained eye, yes. But you can't fool my eyes. When you live out in the desert, you pick up a thing or two real fast if you want to survive. So, why are you hiding your ears? I'm guessing they're cat ears, right?" Dehya asks.
"It's just... I know you've seen it. The discrimination against our kind. Being seen as less than human, as animals. I just didn't want to deal with that here. I want to become a huntress, but more than that, I want people to see me for who I am, not what I am. So, I hide my ears with a bow. A Faunus in plain sight... You must think I'm a coward," Blake says, getting sad.
Dehya rubs her head with a sigh, "Look, I'm not gonna say that it's okay to hide your ears. I mean, I understand what you're saying. People can be real jerks at times. But, I won't ever let them dictate how I lead my life. Besides, in the desert, people don't really care if you're human or Faunus. Well, most of them. Out there, we can only rely on each other. To fight the grimm or the elements. So, I didn't have it as bad as you probably did wherever you're from. But, I do know that not all humans are like that. I've met a few of them. They didn't care that I was a Faunus. It's the same for Team RDCN. Heck, even Nilou may understand what we've been through to a degree. Do you like that she wears fake horns on her head even though they're just part of her headdress? Do you like it when people call her a 'fake' Faunus?"
"What? Of course I hate that! Nilou doesn't wear those horns as a way of disrespecting us. I know her story. Besides, I've seen how she acts. She's a nice person," Blake retorts.
"And yet, you don't trust her enough to tell her your secret, despite knowing what it's like?" Dehya replies.
"I-uh, I mean..." Blake groans.
"Look, I'm not gonna tell you to come out and tell everyone you're a Faunus. That's your choice. But, you can't expect to keep everyone in the dark forever. Sooner or later, you will have to tell your teammates at least. You're practically going to be living together for the next four years. Now, I won't say anything about Weiss. I'm still not sure about her yet, but Ruby and Yang seem alright. Eventually, you will have to tell them at least," Dehya says.
"I know. I just... I need time," Blake says.
"...Well, whatever. Just make sure the time is on your terms and not someone else's. Otherwise, it could end really badly. See ya later," Dehya says before leaving.
Blake holds her arms, wondering if she can really do that. Really tell her teammates such an important secret.
...
Meanwhile, Ei is out behind the school in one of their courtyards. She sits by a fountain, as if waiting for someone. That someone approaches soon enough.
Ei looks and sees a man in a very fancy, expensive-looking brown suit approaching her.
"I admit I was surprised to hear that you left the Plane of Euthymia to become a huntress. I never would've expected that from you, Ei," the man notes.
"I admit I may have been... childish in the past. But, not now. Besides, I too was surprised when I heard from Professor Ozpin that you wanted to speak to me, Zhongli," Ei replies.
"It has been a while hasn't it. But, a few centuries or so might as well be a day between us archons," Zhongli replies.
"I am glad to see you again after so long, but... something tells me you didn't come all this way just to catch up with an old friend," Ei replies.
Zhongli, "I wish that was the case. Ei, do you remember Venti?"
"Yes, I do. I can't say I agree with him always looking for more wine to drink, but it's not like I'm one to talk. I may not drink as much as he does, but I can admit I haven't been the most mature archon until recently," Ei replies.
"Well, the truth is... Venti was attacked and had his Gnosis stolen from him," Zhongli says.
This shocks Ei, "What?! How? While we archons are strong if we show our true power, few could stand against us. What's more, few know of our true origins and our Gnoses. How could this have happened?"
"I'm not sure. Thankfully, Venti is still alive. A huntsman came to his aid at the last moment, though his Gnosis is lost. All Venti told me was that it was a woman who used ice-type techniques to overpower him and stole it. This actually happened a few weeks ago," Zhongli explains.
"What? Then why was I not informed of this matter sooner?" Ei asks.
"Because the last I heard, you were still isolated in the Plane of Euthymia. I only recently heard from Yae Miko that you came back to the mortal realm and then enrolled at Beacon. That's why I came all this way, to warn you," Zhongli explains.
"Have there been others?" Ei asks.
"There haven't been any similar incidents, but then again, there aren't that many of us archons left. There's you, me, and Venti. The Cryo Archon disappeared years ago, and then there's Nahida, the Dendro Archon. She's smart, if albeit a little inexperienced as an archon. Finally, the Pyro and the Hydro Archons passed on before you returned to the mortal realm. We are all that remains," Zhongli explains.
"To think that so few of us remained. And that someone has attacked one of us. Where was Venti when this happened?" Ei asks.
"In Anima, traveling as a bard. Another one of his hobbies besides drinking wine. He let his guard down," Zhongli explained.
"When I first came to Vale, I encountered a woman who used ice techniques against me. She was indeed strong. Perhaps she is the same woman who attacked Venti," Ei notes.
"It's possible. For now, I'd advise you to stay vigilant. Though we archons no longer directly intervene in the world of man, we still hold great power. If someone is trying to take our power for nefarious reasons, it could bring untold catastrophe," Zhongli says.
"I'll keep an eye out. Please let me know if anything should come up. I will do the same for you," Ei says.
Zhongli nods, "I will," he turns to leave, but glances back at Ei. "I must admit, I was surprised when Miko told me you chose to become a student at Beacon. However, I think this surprise is a pleasant one. It is good to see you breaking out of your shell, Ei. I was starting to worry you may never come out,"
"Recent events have opened my eyes to my faults. I see that now," Ei smiles.
Zhongli smiles back before taking his leave. His words leave Ei much to think about. Primarily with who seems to be attacking the archons and stealing their Gnoses. She left with Miko for safekeeping, and knowing that fox, she'll have hidden it in a place only she would know to hide it. If that woman knows that Ei is an archon, she may come after her. Her Gnoses may be safe, but what about her friends?
"Ei, is something wrong?" she looks up and spots Nilou standing in front of her.
"Nilou? Where did you come from?" Ei asks.
She was so deep in thought that she never realized her teammate was right in front of her.
"I was out for a stroll and found you here. You looked really lost in thought. I didn't think anyone could sneak up on you like that," Niloy replies.
Ei sighs, "My apologies. I was deep in thought, but I'm alright,"
"Must've been important. What were you thinking about?" Nilou asks.
"Just some stuff back home. I was wondering how everyone is doing," Ei says.
Aside from Ozpin and Goodwitch, no one here knows that Ei is a god. Not even the other teachers or her teammates. It might be wrong, but it's a matter of safety and security for everyone. Especially now.
"Hmm, you don't talk much about your home. You're from Anima like me right? But, you're not from Mistral," Nilou says as the two start walking back together.
"No, I'm not. My home is outside the kingdom. It is very precious to me," Ei says.
"Hmm, maybe one day, I could visit. I'd love to see your home," Nilou says.
"Sure. In return, I'd like to see one of your performances. I'm quite intrigued by them," Ei says.
Nilou gets a sparkle in her eyes, "Well, in that case..." she takes Ei's hand and jogs back to the fountain they had just left behind. She sits Ei down in front of it and then takes her position. "Please, enjoy the show,"
Nilou takes a breath and then starts dancing. Her hands sway around her as her feet take precise steps across the ground. Her whole body moves in such beautiful fashion. Ei finds herself transfixed on the figure before her. Nilou smiles before activating her semblance. The water in the fountain floats out in little, tiny droplets. Ei watches in awe as they sparkle in the sunlight; like little gemstones in mid-air. They float and move around in tune with Nilou's steps. Ei realizes that Nilou must've used this in her shows sometimes. It certainly makes for a magnificent display. The way Nilou dances. The way the water flies through the air like a living entity around her. It was so beautiful. Ei can't take her eyes off of the dancer. Soon enough, the beautiful performance came to an end. As Nilou kneeled on the ground, the water flew back into the fountain as if it had never left. Ei finds herself clapping for the show.
"That was beautiful, Nilou," Ei notes, still in awe.
Nilou bows, "Why, thank you Ei. I always enjoy dancing, and making sure the audience enjoys it as well,"
"I feel ashamed, honestly. I never once tried to see one of your shows before. I suppose I'll have to correct that for the foreseeable future," Ei notes.
Then again, she was stuck in her Plane of Euthymia for so long, so she never would've thought about seeing a show until she finally came out.
Nilou rubs her head, "Oh, stop it. You keep that up and you'll make me blush,"
"I was only speaking the truth. I wonder if Professor Ozpin would allow you to do a show for the whole school one of these days," Ei says.
"Well, Vale is hosting the Vytal Festival this year. Who knows, maybe I could put on a performance then. Perhaps the Zubayr Theater will be there too. I'd love to do one of our shows together again," Nilou notes.
"Ah, the Vytal Festival," Ei recollects.
She remembers Miko telling her about that back in Inazuma. A special event held every few years for everyone across the world to enjoy. Parties, festivals, food, events, and the combat tournament as the main pull of the whole thing.
"It would be cool if we could qualify for the tournament. Only select teams may enter that competition," Nilou says.
"If everyone on the team wants to do it, then I will do everything in my power to ensure we qualify," Ei declares.
"I'm sure you will, Ei. Something tells me you can do that and more. Tell you what, help us get into the tournament, and I'll perform another dance for you," Nilou says.
Ei smiles, "Then it's a deal,"
...
On their way back to the others, they come across Ruby and Weiss heading in the direction of the kitchen.
"Hello, Ruby, Weiss, are you guys going to make something to eat?" Nilou greets them.
"Well, sort of. I was going to bake cookies, but then me and Weiss got to talking and it turns out she doesn't know how to cook," Ruby says.
"I said I never needed to know how to cook because I always had a squad of chefs at home to prepare whatever I desired," Weiss retorts.
"And I said that if you're going to be a full-fledged huntress, you need to learn how to cook for yourself. Especially if it's chocolate chip cookies," Ruby beams.
"I still don't see how cookies could be so important in this discussion," Weiss deadpans.
"So, I'm going to show Weiss how it's done. Wanna come with? We can share afterwards," Ruby offers.
"I don't have anything planned right now, so I don't see why not. Truth be told, I don't know how to bake either," Ei confesses.
Ruby gasps, "No! That can't be. Don't worry, I'll show both of you how it's done. Nilou, you know how to cook, right?!" Ruby looks at her pleadingly.
Nilou nods, "Yes, I can cook some stuff. I'm no master chef, but I know a few dishes. And I can bake a few things too,"
"Good, then you'll help me. Alright, let's go everyone!" Ruby cheers and leads the way after grabbing Weiss' hand.
"Hey, don't run while holding my hand, you dolt!" Weiss yells.
Nilou and Ei follow the pair to the kitchen. There, Ruby grabbed aprons for all of them in their respective colors. How she did that, they'll never know.
"Okay, let's begin!" Ruby cheers.
Ruby goes over the steps carefully with Weiss and Ei while Nilou follows along easily enough. Weiss and Ei definitely needed a lot of instructions, but it could be worse... sort of. Ei definitely needed a lot of training when it came to cooking. As for Weiss...
"I can't believe you almost burned down the kitchen! I thought you were supposed to be smarter than me!" Ruby yells.
Behind her is the oven with some scorch marks around it and on the cabinets.
"I am smarter than you, but how was I supposed to know that setting the buttons up to max on the oven would do this?!" Weiss yells back.
Nilou and Ei watch from the sidelines, with some cookie batter on their persons.
"Are you okay, Nilou?" Ei asks.
Nilou waves it off, "I'll be fine. A good shower will rinse the batter out of my hair. I hope there isn't too much in yours. Your hair is much longer and prettier than mine," Nilou notes, inspecting Ei's braid.
"Why, thank you. But, I should be fine. Besides, this has been a pleasant experience. I never had the chance to learn how to bake cookies before. I admit I am still quite inexperienced in it," Ei says.
"I'll show you later. Candace and Dehya can help too," Nilou says.
"That sounds nice. But first, what should we do about them?" Ei points at the two partners still bickering.
"I have an idea for that," Nilou says, taking a spoonful of cookie batter with some chocolate chips in them. "Alright you two, that's enough arguing. Have a sweet treat," she stuffs the spoons into their mouths.
Ruby happily enjoys the treat while Weiss just bears with it and glances away.
"How about we clean all this up and start over? We all want tasty cookies right?" Nilou suggests.
This gets Ruby and Ei on board, with Weiss conceding to them since she was outnumbered. They finish the lesson, though it was mostly Ruby and Nilou baking while Weiss and Ei watched. Once the pair are done, they bring out two fresh plates of cookies, though for some reason, the cookies on one plate looked like snowflakes.
"Wait, why did you make them look like snowflakes, Ruby?" Weiss asks her partner.
Ruby glances at Nilou, who simply winked.
"Well, despite you almost ruining the kitchen, Weiss, I can at least see that you tried your best. So, I decided to reward you with a special plate of snowflake chocolate chip cookies, just for you," Ruby smiles.
Weiss heavily scrutinizes the cookies and then looks at Ruby's smiling face. She was practically sparkling, waiting for Weiss to try a cookie. Despite the temptation to yell at the younger girl again, Weiss decides it's better to deal with a smiling Ruby than a crying one and accepts a cookie.
"Fine, I'll try one. However, I highly doubt your cookies can match up to my very high-," Weiss takes a bite and freezes.
They watch as she slowly chews the cookie, eventually eating it all.
"Well..." Ruby leans in.
Weiss holds her cheeks and can barely keep herself from squealing, "It's... It's..." and then Weiss realizes who's around her and composes herself. "I-I suppose it's barely passable as a sugary treat. But, I've had better," she says.
However, her hands continue to grab Ruby's cookies and she starts chomping down on them in an inelegant manner. Ruby sees this and smirks.
"Ah, that's too bad. In that case, I won't waste anymore of your time by baking my 'barely passable' cookies," Ruby says sarcastically.
Weiss goes wide-eyed, "Don't you dare! I want those-," Weiss stops herself when she sees Ruby smirk and she turns away with a blush. "Okay, fine, you can make more cookies for me. But, they better live up to MY expectations,"
Ruby giggles, "As you wish, milady," Ruby bows dramatically.
Weiss scoffs, though the blush remains. Ei and Nilou smile at the little display. It seems Ruby now has a good way to get on the Ice Queen's good side, specifically through her stomach. While this was a nice moment with her friends, Ei's thoughts still drift to Zhongli's warning. Just who could be after the archons and their Gnoses?
And that's the chapter. Ei meets an old friend, only to get some bad news. Meanwhile, she and Nilou have a moment and witness Ruby and Weiss have their moment. What dangers await Ei in the near future? Who's targeting the archons? Until then, please Read and Review.