Title: Ruby and Neo: Dragonborn of Madness Chapter 2: Ruby and Neo, a RWBY + Elder Scroll series Crossover fanfic

Title: Ruby and Neo: Dragonborn of Madness

Chapter 1: The Girl Who Fell Through the World (and into Madness)

Ruby Rose couldn't remember how it happened—one moment she was standing on the edge of the abyss after Neo's ambush in Atlas, and the next? She was falling, falling, falling. Gravity gave way to madness as the world around her warped with swirling colors, laughter echoing in her ears that wasn't quite hers.

Neo was there too, glaring daggers as if blaming Ruby for the fall itself. Both spiraled together, nothing but enemies in an infinite descent. Then… solid ground.

Ruby woke up first.

The cold bite of stone met her cheek as she sat up with a groan, disoriented and shivering. Around her loomed tall pine trees, unfamiliar architecture, and a distinctly Nordic chill. She wasn't in Remnant anymore. A town loomed nearby, perched in a valley surrounded by a mountain pass.

"Neo…?" Ruby muttered, brushing dirt off her cloak. Her fingers instinctively reached for Crescent Rose—gone. Before she could panic, a groan echoed nearby, and there she was—Neo Politan, sprawled out in the snow, looking exactly as annoyed as Ruby felt.

They had fallen together.

And watching from nowhere in particular—though Ruby and Neo couldn't see it—Sheogorath, Daedric Prince of Madness, grinned from his realm. This was his idea, after all. A pair of combatants shoved into a world of dragons, ice, and madness? Perfectly entertaining.

Chapter 2: The Escape from Helgen

It didn't take long before they were unceremoniously shoved into a cart with shackled prisoners, hearing the word "Stormcloaks" and "Imperial scum" muttered along the way. Ruby pieced together what she could—her situation felt like something straight out of Jaune's dumb fantasy games. Neo, on the other hand, seethed silently, her glare never wavering.

Helgen was burning not long after. Alduin's roar shattered the sky, and fire rained down in chaos. Ruby didn't have time to question what this thing was—she grabbed Neo, dragged her through smoke and flame, and ended up alongside Hadvar, an Imperial soldier, desperate to escape. Whether Neo wanted to follow or not, she didn't get a choice.

The looting started as survival, but Ruby couldn't help but feel guilty. It wasn't like these weapons were Dust-infused, but they'd have to do. She took a steel greatsword with surprising ease, the blade almost as unwieldy as Crescent Rose, while Neo collected a pair of daggers, her sharp smile matching their glint.

When Alduin disappeared into the skies, leaving Helgen in ruins, Ruby and Neo were alive but stranded. No way home. No semblance. No allies.

Naturally, the first thing they did was try to kill each other.

Chapter 3: The Four-Hour Fight

It began with Neo sucker-punching Ruby as they staggered out of Helgen. The tension had been building since the fall, but now it exploded.

"You think this is my fault?!" Ruby shouted, throwing her fists up as Neo spun, delivering a roundhouse kick that Ruby barely ducked.

Neo said nothing—her silence was filled with accusations.

Fists, elbows, knees, boots—it wasn't graceful like their usual fights. It was brutal, messy, two women pummeling each other with every ounce of anger they carried. Snow stained with blood and bruises covered them both as they grunted, staggered, and hit harder. Four hours. Neither willing to stop.

By the time the fight slowed, both were lying flat on their backs, gasping for air in the snow, bruised beyond recognition.

"…Why?" Ruby croaked.

Neo glared at her for a long, hateful moment before her silent motions finally explained everything.

Roman Torchwick. Ruby's fault, Neo's loss. Ruby swallowed hard, the guilt stinging sharper than any punch.

"He… he didn't deserve that," Ruby muttered quietly. "I… I didn't want him to die. I really didn't."

Neo froze. The sincerity in Ruby's voice, raw and unfiltered, knocked her silent rage off balance. For the first time since Roman's death, the weight of everything settled—not just for her but for Ruby too.

Chapter 4: A Uneasy Hatchet Buried

It wasn't peace, but it was a truce. Neo grunted, sitting up as Ruby shakily stood. They stared at each other in silence, the snow falling softly now. Neo nodded once, a silent agreement—they'd have to work together to survive this world, whatever it was.

As they trudged down the path toward Riverwood, Ruby glanced up at the sky, watching a distant shadow fly far above.

A voice, deep and ancient, echoed in her mind.

"Dovahkiin."

Ruby frowned. What now?

And Sheogorath watched, applauding. "Oh, this is going to be so much fun!"

Chapter 5: Stones of Power

After hours of brutal brawling, bruises still fresh and pride barely intact, Ruby and Neo followed Hadvar along the winding roads from Helgen. Despite the strange looks the two gave each other, Hadvar seemed unbothered—impressed even.

"I haven't seen a brawl like that since my days as a recruit," Hadvar chuckled, adjusting his armor. "Two young Nords settling their issues with their fists—ha, that's tradition for you."

Ruby gave an awkward laugh, unsure how to explain she wasn't a Nord. Neo shot her a sly look, seemingly amused that Hadvar lumped them together. The truce between the two remained fragile, but neither woman argued—it was survival first.

The Guardian Stones

They arrived at an ancient clearing carved into the rock: three towering stones stood tall beneath the evening sky, each etched with glowing runes. Hadvar gestured proudly.

"The Guardian Stones," he said. "The Mage, the Warrior, and the Thief. Pick one, and you'll gain blessings—magic, strength, or cunning. It's up to you."

Ruby stepped closer to the Mage Stone. The carvings hummed with an otherworldly glow, calling to her.

"What's this one do?" she asked.

Hadvar explained, "The Mage Stone grants faster learning of magic. A boon for scholars and spellcasters."

Ruby's mind flashed to Salem—the immortal witch, the manipulator of lifetimes. If magic was her weapon, then maybe Ruby could fight fire with fire. She placed her hand on the stone. Light burst outward, wrapping around her in shimmering threads of blue.

Neo scoffed silently, already moving toward the Thief Stone. She touched it with no hesitation. Light flared green, outlining her in a faint aura that faded just as quickly. Neo gave a smug grin and shrugged at Ruby's curious look—old habits die hard.

Hadvar smiled approvingly. "Good choices. Magic for you, and nimbleness for your quiet friend there. With those blessings, you'll find life in Skyrim a little easier."

Ruby only nodded, her thoughts still on Salem.

Chapter 6: Riverwood and the Mine

Riverwood was a quaint village nestled beside a river, peaceful yet weary from news of Helgen's destruction. Hadvar introduced Ruby and Neo to his uncle, Alvor, the village blacksmith. After recounting their escape (Hadvar conveniently omitted the part where Neo tried to kill Ruby earlier), Alvor offered shelter, food, and advice.

"If you need coin or practice with those weapons, there's a mine nearby," Alvor said, sharpening his hammer on an anvil. "Bandits overran it recently—Embershard Mine, west of here. Clear it out, and you can keep what you find. The guards would be grateful."

Ruby hesitated. "Bandits?"

Neo tapped her shoulder with the hilt of her new dagger, eyes gleaming with the suggestion that this was a perfect opportunity.

Ruby sighed. "Fine. Let's check it out."

The Mine and Ruby's First Kill

The entrance to Embershard Mine loomed beneath an outcrop of rocks, torchlight flickering faintly within. Ruby gripped the steel greatsword she had looted earlier, its weight uncomfortable but steady in her hands. Neo held her daggers, crouched and ready to strike.

Ruby spotted the bandit guarding the entrance. A burly man in fur armor paced lazily near the fire.

"Take him out," Neo gestured silently, motioning for Ruby to handle it.

Ruby swallowed hard. Killing Grimm was one thing—they were monsters. But this was a person. She felt her palms sweat as she crept forward. The bandit turned, grunting a curse just as Ruby swung.

Her blade struck deep into his chest with a sickening crunch. Blood spurted across the ground, and the man gasped, falling still.

Ruby stared, her heart pounding. The reality of what she'd done sank in—she had taken a life.

Neo's hand landed on her shoulder, grounding her. Ruby looked up to see Neo nodding. Not mockery. Not amusement. Just understanding.

"Thanks," Ruby muttered, shakily pulling her sword free.

Neo rolled her eyes but motioned forward. There were more bandits to deal with.

Clearing the Mine

What followed was a brutal, tense crawl through the mine's tunnels. Neo moved like a shadow, slitting throats and backstabbing before anyone noticed. Ruby, emboldened by the first kill (and Neo's watchful presence), smashed through enemies with the greatsword, her strikes growing surer with every swing.

The final chamber opened up into a makeshift camp with three bandits arguing over a chest. Ruby charged in with a shout, slamming her blade into the first. Neo danced around the second, slicing his Achilles tendon before finishing him off. The last bandit tried to flee but didn't get far—Neo's dagger buried itself in his back.

Breathing hard, Ruby surveyed the carnage. Her arms ached, her armor was smeared with blood, but she felt... stronger. This was survival.

Neo smirked and clapped her hands together, motioning toward the chest.

Ruby huffed. "Fine. Let's loot."

The Spoils of War

The chest held a handful of gold, some gems, and a spell tome labeled Flames. Ruby's eyes lit up.

"What's this?" she asked.

Neo shrugged, clearly uninterested in magic. Ruby opened the tome, and as the strange runes burned in her vision, something clicked in her mind. She raised her hand experimentally, and a small flame burst to life in her palm.

She gasped. "Magic… real magic."

Neo arched an eyebrow, unimpressed but amused at Ruby's excitement.

Ruby grinned. "Okay, maybe this world isn't all bad."

As they looted the rest of the mine, Ruby couldn't help but feel a sense of grim satisfaction. They had fought, killed, and survived. And for the first time since arriving in this strange world, she believed they could thrive.

Outside the mine, the night sky stretched endless and clear, stars shimmering like silver.

Ruby looked up and whispered, "I'm coming for you, Salem."

And somewhere in the madness, Sheogorath laughed.

Chapter 7: The Prodigy and the Spellblade

Ruby sat cross-legged on the floor of Alvor's forge, the Flames spell tome laid open before her. Neo lounged nearby on a bench, tossing a dagger in the air, her expression a mix of boredom and faint curiosity as she watched Ruby. The smith's hammer clanged in the distance, but Ruby heard nothing except the strange runes burned into her mind.

"Alright," Ruby murmured to herself, glancing between the spellbook and her steel greatsword. "Destruction magic… and runes… if I just—"

She reached out and focused. Magic pooled in her hands, the glow of orange flames flickering to life. The world around her blurred as she let her mind wander through the runes—almost instinctively, as if magic was something she'd always known but forgotten. A spark of creativity struck her.

"What if I... fused it?"

Neo tilted her head as Ruby grabbed the steel blade, placing her other hand over the flat of the sword. Ruby whispered the rune of Flames, twisting her magic into it. The steel groaned, glowing faintly orange as if hot from a forge, yet the blade didn't melt.

A wave of warmth coursed through the sword. The flame spell didn't cast outward like before—it lingered inside the steel. Ruby grinned wide, excitement sparking in her silver eyes.

Neo finally sat up straight, eyes narrowing.

"I did it!" Ruby said, holding the enchanted sword aloft. She swung it experimentally, and with each arc, a faint woosh of flame trailed behind the blade. "It's my own spell! I can empower my weapon with any destruction magic I learn!"

Neo gave a slow clap—sarcastic but at least acknowledging the feat.

Ruby beamed. "Call it Battle Enchant! Oh man, Weiss would be so jealous if she saw this!"

Neo rolled her eyes but gave an approving nod nonetheless.

Alvor's Request

That evening, after a meal of fresh bread and stew (something Ruby was immensely grateful for), Alvor pulled them aside.

"You two did well clearing that mine," he began, voice low. "But Helgen was only the beginning. Dragons are back in Skyrim—if that was a dragon we saw, the Jarl of Whiterun must know."

"Dragons," Ruby muttered, fingers brushing the hilt of her sword. "Just when I thought this world couldn't get crazier."

Alvor continued, "It's a day's walk to Whiterun from here. Get some rest tonight, and I'll set you up with camping gear in the morning. You'll need it."

Neo groaned silently but didn't protest.

The Shared Bed

The Riverwood Trader was full, and the only bed left was the one Alvor offered at his own house—a small wooden bed barely wide enough for two people.

"Seriously?" Ruby muttered, looking at the bed, then at Neo.

Neo smirked, as if to say Your problem, not mine.

"Fine," Ruby grumbled, kicking off her boots. "But no funny business!"

Neo quirked an eyebrow, clearly amused.

The two awkwardly squeezed onto the bed, Ruby lying stiff as a board while Neo curled up like a cat on the far side. Ruby stared at the wooden ceiling for a long moment.

"At least it's warm," she muttered to herself before finally dozing off.

Chapter 8: Supplies and Departure

Morning light streamed into the house as Ruby stretched and groaned. Neo was already up, perched on a chair sharpening her daggers.

After a quick breakfast, Alvor handed them a set of supplies: camping gear, bedrolls, food rations, and a small tent. Ruby slung the pack over her shoulder while Neo inspected a new map of Skyrim with an impressed nod.

"Follow the river north, and you'll hit Whiterun in a few hours," Alvor said. "Watch yourselves—the road's not always safe."

"Thanks, Alvor," Ruby said earnestly.

Neo gave a mock salute, clearly ready to move.

The Road to Whiterun

The pair set out, the cold morning air nipping at Ruby's face. The road wound through pine forests and along the riverbank, the sound of rushing water accompanying their steps. Birds chirped overhead, and the sunlight warmed their backs.

"Peaceful," Ruby murmured, half to herself. Neo rolled her eyes, unconvinced.

It wasn't long before the peace broke. A pack of wolves emerged from the underbrush, growling and circling them.

"Seriously?!" Ruby groaned, drawing her greatsword. She touched her hand to the blade, whispering her Battle Enchant. Flames flared along the steel as she swung, the fire roaring with each arc.

Neo darted forward with her daggers, a flurry of motion as she dodged bites and countered with quick slashes. Between Ruby's blazing strikes and Neo's precision, the wolves fell quickly.

"Nice teamwork," Ruby said, grinning and wiping her forehead. Neo simply shrugged but offered a satisfied smirk.

By late afternoon, the walls of Whiterun loomed in the distance, rising proudly over the plains. Ruby felt a strange sense of anticipation—dragons, magic, and a whole new world to navigate. She glanced at Neo, who stared at the city with her usual detached expression, but Ruby could see the spark of curiosity in her eyes.

"Let's go tell this 'Jarl' what's up," Ruby said, determination clear in her voice.

Neo just smirked and nodded, falling in step beside her as they walked toward the gates.

Somewhere, high above the mountains, wings beat against the sky as a shadow watched from afar.

Chapter 9: Forty Years in Skyrim – A Legend Forged

The next chapter unfolds as a montage, a sweeping retelling of Ruby and Neo's decades spent in Skyrim. Their bond, forged through hardship and survival, grew into something resembling camaraderie—if not friendship—amid battles, magic, and the weight of time.

Ruby: The Archmage and Dragonborn

Ruby Rose, ever the prodigy, threw herself into learning everything Skyrim had to offer. Her natural determination, combined with her ingenuity, saw her rise through the ranks of the College of Winterhold in record time.

Scenes of Ruby's Progress:

Ruby standing before the Eye of Magnus, flames glowing in her hands, as the mages of Winterhold bow to their new Archmage.

She hammers away at a forge, sweat dripping as molten metal glows bright. Her creation? Mythic Rose, a weapon of legend forged from Dragon Bone, Ebony, and Malachite. It transforms seamlessly between a scythe, a greatsword, and a bow, glowing with etched Dragon Runes.

Ruby clad in her custom Ranger-Mage Armor—a sleek, black and crimson outfit of enchanted leather and plate, designed for speed, protection, and magical amplification.

Ruby atop High Hrothgar, her silver eyes fierce as she learns to shout alongside the Greybeards. Her voice roars like thunder as she masters the Thu'um, blending it into her fighting style with precision and power.

Her combat technique evolved into something unique:

Battle Enchantments: Infusing her weapon with Destruction magic mid-swing, now replaced with Dragon Runes for devastating effects.

The Thu'um: Ruby shouts Fus Ro Dah to break enemy lines or Yol Toor Shul to incinerate her foes.

Aura and Semblance: Ruby's aura finally resurged, protecting her from mortal wounds, while her speed semblance intertwined perfectly with her magical powers.

Atop the Throat of the World, Ruby faced Alduin, the World-Eater, her silver eyes blazing as she shouted him into submission. In a final climactic strike, she felled the dragon god with Mythic Rose, becoming the savior of Skyrim.

Neo: The Shadow of Skyrim

Neo, ever silent and cunning, thrived in Skyrim's underworld. Ruby's magic and dragon-slaying exploits may have turned her into a hero, but Neo was no less legendary among the shadows.

Scenes of Neo's Rise:

Neo standing atop the ruins of the Thieves Guild, holding her position as its Guildmaster, surrounded by followers who revere her deadly silence.

Ruby presenting Neo with her new weapon: an Umbrella-Sword crafted from Ebony and Glass. The elegant weapon concealed a razor-sharp blade within, enchanted with illusion magic to cloak her strikes in shadow.

Neo perfecting Illusion Magic: walking unseen among enemies with Invisibility, turning foes against one another with Frenzy, and masking entire rooms in darkness.

Neo dressed in her enchanted armor—sleek, black leathers with a faint green shimmer, enchanted for speed, stealth, and resistance to detection.

Her fighting style became a deadly dance:

Sneak Attacks: Enhanced by Illusion magic and her semblance.

Aura: Neo's aura made her an untouchable phantom, deflecting attacks while she struck from the shadows.

Semblance: Neo's illusions were now amplified by her magic, creating decoys and misdirecting entire armies.

Neo's rise to power culminated in her reclaiming the Guild's glory, her name whispered in every corner of Skyrim.

Regaining Their Aura and Semblance

The resurgence of their aura was unexpected, a moment marked by a spark during one of their fiercest battles. Ruby realized it first—her aura glowing silver as a dragon's fire washed harmlessly over her. Neo followed suit soon after, her illusion semblance intertwining with her magic to become even deadlier.

The Final Moments in Skyrim

Ruby stood victorious at the Throat of the World, Mythic Rose in hand, as Alduin fell. The world quieted, the air still and reverent. Neo appeared at her side, flicking blood off her blade and offering a smirk.

Before either of them could speak, the sky rippled. The air around them crackled with laughter—Sheogorath's laughter.

A note fluttered down, landing at Ruby's feet. She picked it up, frowning.

"Thank you for the entertainment, lassies! A delight, truly! You can keep your gear, trophies, and whatnot. Oh, and yes—Kynareth insists on her little blessing too. Enjoy your next journey! Cheerio! –Sheogorath"

Neo shot Ruby a look that screamed What now?

Before Ruby could respond, a gust of wind roared around them. Light engulfed their vision, and they vanished from Skyrim in a flash.

The Ever After

Ruby groaned as her senses returned. She sat up slowly, feeling soft grass beneath her palms. Familiar sunlight streamed through vibrant, otherworldly trees.

"The Ever After…?" Ruby whispered. Her voice caught as she looked down—Mythic Rose was still strapped to her back, glowing faintly. Neo sat nearby, her weapons and gear intact.

Neo frowned, staring at her reflection in a pond. Slowly, they both realized—they were younger again. Kynareth had returned them to the ages they were when they first arrived in Skyrim.

"Okay… okay…" Ruby muttered, collecting herself. "So we're alive. We're here. And we've still got everything we've learned."

Neo glanced up as a voice echoed nearby—small, soft, and familiar.

"Hello?"

Ruby froze. From the tree line emerged Little, her curious eyes wide as she stared at the pair.

Neo tilted her head, smirking as if to say, Here we go again.

Ruby just smiled. "Well, Neo… ready for round two?"

The shadow of a dragon's soul lingered in Ruby's silver eyes as she gripped Mythic Rose. Wherever they were, whatever came next—Ruby Rose and Neo Politan were ready.

And somewhere in the planes of Oblivion, Sheogorath cackled with glee.

Chapter 10: Skeleton Steeds and Princesses

Ruby stood in the middle of the Ever After's vibrant fields, arms crossed as she mulled over their plan—or lack thereof. Little clung to her shoulder, chattering excitedly about "helping friends" while Neo leaned against a nearby tree, inspecting her nails with practiced boredom.

"We need to find my team," Ruby said firmly. "Blake, Yang, Weiss—they've gotta be somewhere here."

Neo raised an eyebrow, clearly asking And how do you plan to do that?

Ruby sighed. "I don't know… instinct, I guess?"

She closed her eyes, focusing on the bond she shared with her team. Something deep within her stirred—a connection, strong and unshakable, pulling her in a direction she couldn't quite explain. Her aura hummed faintly.

And then… there was a sound.

Thump.

Thump-thump-thump.

Ruby's eyes shot open as the ground trembled. Neo straightened, alert as something massive emerged from the distance.

From the shimmering horizon trotted a towering skeletal horse—its frame a blend of ancient bone and enchanted silver, glowing faintly with a spectral blue light. It snorted, releasing wisps of pale mist as it came to a stop in front of Ruby, stomping the ground eagerly.

Ruby's face lit up. "Aardvark! I knew I could summon you!"

Neo blinked in confusion. Who names a horse Aardvark?

Ruby ran to her undead steed, patting its bony head like it was the greatest thing in the world. "Who's the best of boys? You are! I missed you!" Aardvark huffed affectionately, bones rattling like wind chimes.

Neo, meanwhile, smirked and sauntered over, giving Ruby a silent You're serious? look.

Ruby glanced back. "What? Don't judge me—Aardvark's awesome."

Neo shrugged, grinning mischievously as she placed a dainty foot in Aardvark's stirrup and hopped up onto the horse's back, settling herself in front. She crossed her legs, back straight, and turned toward Ruby with a smirk that screamed You're the chauffeur now.

Ruby scowled. "Oh no, no way! You're not riding up there like some princess."

Neo simply tilted her head, smirking even wider, as if daring Ruby to knock her down.

"Fine." Ruby sighed dramatically, mounting Aardvark behind her.

The second Ruby was seated, Neo leaned back ever so slightly, her head resting against Ruby's shoulder as she fluttered her eyelashes innocently. Ruby's face flushed beet red.

"Neo, stop—stop that!" Ruby stammered. "Why are you being weird?"

Neo ignored her, smiling slyly as if she were enjoying the attention.

Cue Team RWBY Entrance

It was then, as Ruby struggled to focus on guiding Aardvark instead of Neo's absurd antics, that fate delivered a perfectly timed reunion.

From the distance, voices echoed through the forest.

"Ruby?!" Weiss's familiar, incredulous shout rang out.

"Wait, that is Ruby!" Yang's voice followed, laced with surprise and relief.

The pair burst into view, followed closely by Blake. They froze at the scene before them:

Ruby, red-faced and flustered, perched on the back of a glowing skeleton horse.

Neo sitting in front of Ruby like royalty, casually twirling a dagger and absolutely loving the moment.

Little clinging to Ruby's head, waving excitedly.

And the horse itself, snorting an eerie puff of blue mist like it was totally normal.

Weiss gawked. "What… what is this? What is that?!" She pointed dramatically at Aardvark.

"Ruby's got a skeleton horse?" Yang barked out a laugh. "That's metal as hell!"

Blake stared silently, her cat ears twitching as her eyes flicked between Ruby and Neo. Finally, she deadpanned, "Why does Neo look like she's being carried around like a princess?"

"She's not—" Ruby tried to protest.

Neo, naturally, turned to flash a smug grin at Blake, leaning further into her "princess" act as Ruby buried her face in her hands.

Yang wheezed with laughter, slapping her knee. "Oh my gods, Ruby, I leave you for a minute and you're chauffeuring Neo Politan around on a skeleton horse?!"

Weiss pinched the bridge of her nose. "Only you, Ruby. Only you."

Ruby groaned. "I hate all of you right now."

Shenanigans Ensue

The reunion devolved into chaos as Yang circled Aardvark, examining it like a kid on her birthday.

"Can I ride him?" Yang asked eagerly.

"No!" Ruby snapped. "He's my horse."

Neo, of course, patted Aardvark's bony neck smugly, as if claiming ownership herself.

Weiss crossed her arms, staring pointedly at Neo. "Why are you even here? Aren't you… evil?"

Neo just grinned and shrugged, twirling her dagger as if to say, It's complicated.

Ruby sighed. "We've been through a lot, okay? She's not that bad."

"Not that bad? She tried to kill you!" Weiss sputtered.

Yang leaned over and whispered loudly to Blake, "Ruby went and tamed a skeleton horse and Neo—what's next, is she gonna recruit Salem too?"

Ruby groaned again. "I can hear you, Yang!"

Onward!

After some reluctant explanations, the team agreed to continue together, albeit with lingering questions about Neo's place among them. Ruby rode ahead on Aardvark, Neo still in her "princess seat" with a self-satisfied grin.

As they trotted forward, Weiss muttered under her breath, "You're going to explain everything later, Ruby."

Ruby just nodded weakly, still flustered. "Yeah… sure. Everything."

Neo tilted her head back slightly, catching Ruby's flustered expression and smirking silently to herself.

The rest of Team RWBY followed, Blake shaking her head with a faint smile while Yang snickered every few seconds.

The skeleton horse huffed a ghostly breath, carrying the strangest party the Ever After had ever seen deeper into the unknown.

And somewhere, Sheogorath surely cackled in delight.

Chapter 11: Grief and Shadows

Ruby and her team traveled deeper into the Ever After, a strange, dreamlike tension hanging between them. Yang was determined to get her arm back from the raccoon merchant, Weiss and Blake arguing softly over the plan to reclaim it. Meanwhile, Ruby trailed behind, quiet and withdrawn, her silver eyes staring at nothing in particular.

Neo, perched casually atop Aardvark's saddle like she belonged there, watched Ruby carefully. The Ruby Rose she'd seen fight dragons and study magic wasn't here right now—this was a different Ruby: smaller, quieter, cracked.

The Truth About Penny

The conversation started innocently enough.

"Ruby, you've been awfully quiet," Weiss said, walking beside her.

Ruby looked up, startled. "Huh? Oh, sorry. I'm just… tired."

Weiss hesitated, her face pinching with guilt. "You deserve to know about… what happened. About Penny."

The world stopped. Neo glanced down sharply from Aardvark's back, her fingers twitching against her umbrella handle.

Weiss explained softly, regret heavy in every word. "Ruby, Penny… Penny didn't make it. She fought to protect everyone—she fought for you—but in the end…" Her voice cracked. "She's gone."

Ruby's breath caught in her throat. Her eyes darted to Weiss, then to Blake and Yang, who glanced back with pained expressions but said nothing.

The silence that followed was suffocating. Ruby stopped walking, her boots frozen to the ground.

"Why didn't you tell me sooner?" Ruby asked quietly, her voice trembling.

Weiss faltered. "We thought you—"

"You thought I'd be fine?" Ruby snapped suddenly, her voice sharp and bitter in a way her team had never heard before. "You didn't even check if I was okay."

Weiss froze, guilt flashing across her face. Yang clenched her fists but said nothing. Blake looked away.

Ruby turned her back on them, shaking as she sucked in a deep breath. "I just need a minute."

Neo's Intervention

As Ruby walked ahead, Neo silently dismounted Aardvark and followed. Her quiet steps barely made a sound as she fell in line beside Ruby, a faint smirk tugging at her lips—but it wasn't mocking. It was understanding.

Ruby didn't look at her. "You're just here to watch me fall apart, huh?"

Neo raised an eyebrow and jabbed her elbow lightly into Ruby's side—not so fast, dummy.

Ruby blinked, startled, then looked at her properly. Neo tilted her head, her gaze filled with an odd mixture of amusement and something warmer.

"You're always there," Ruby murmured, staring at the ground. "When things get bad. When no one else even notices… you're just there."

Neo grinned faintly, as if to say, Of course. You're my favorite problem.

Ruby smiled weakly, wiping her eyes. "Thanks, Neo. I don't know how you put up with me."

Neo shrugged, flicking her umbrella open dramatically, silently implying she was just that talented. Ruby couldn't help but snort softly.

The Raccoon Merchant and Yang's Arm

The group arrived at a clearing cluttered with shiny trinkets and makeshift displays—this was the Raccoon Merchant's domain.

Yang's mechanical arm sat on display near the back, surrounded by oddities.

"There it is!" Yang growled, marching toward it.

"Hold on," Weiss said quickly, stepping in front. "We can't just take it. This is the Ever After—everything works on trade."

The team fell into an argument. Blake wanted to negotiate, Weiss wanted to plan, and Yang wanted to simply punch her arm free. Ruby, standing slightly apart, felt something tug at her mind. It was subtle—like an invisible thread pulling her attention toward the arm.

Ruby frowned, then turned to Neo and whispered, "Neo, I need you to steal it."

Neo blinked, then gave Ruby a look that screamed You want me to WHAT?

"Little said it earlier," Ruby explained softly. "'Fair is fair.' If the merchant stole it, we're taking it back. You're the best thief here."

Neo grinned widely at the praise, then nodded, vanishing into the shadows.

The True Trade: Penny's Sword

As Ruby watched her team argue, the Raccoon Merchant suddenly turned toward her.

"You. Girl in red," he said, his voice smooth and sly. He pointed with a clawed hand toward a display case behind him. Inside it gleamed Penny's sword—perfect, pristine, and very real.

Ruby's heart stopped.

"What do you want for it?" she whispered, voice shaking.

The merchant held up a small, delicate jar. "A jar of hope. Just a little—enough to fill this."

Ruby frowned, confused. "Hope?"

The merchant nodded. "You carry it with you—more than most who pass through here. Enough to fill this jar, and the sword is yours."

Ruby hesitated. Did she even have hope left?

Then Neo appeared at her side, holding Yang's arm with a smug grin, completely unnoticed by the others still bickering. Neo's presence grounded her, reminding Ruby of Skyrim, dragons, and everything they had survived together.

Ruby closed her eyes and focused on that. The nights in Skyrim when Neo sat with her during her darkest moments, their silent victories against bandits, dragons, and gods, and the bond that had somehow formed between them. It wasn't perfect. It wasn't easy. But Neo was there, and somehow, that was enough.

When Ruby opened her eyes, the jar was full, glowing faintly with a soft silver light.

The merchant blinked in surprise. "So easily done."

Ruby took the jar, holding it out. "Because I'm not alone anymore."

Neo glanced at Ruby, startled for half a second before recovering with a quiet smirk.

The merchant grinned, handing Ruby Penny's sword. "Fair is fair."

Reunited and Moving On

Neo tossed Yang's arm to her without fanfare, earning a confused look from the group.

"How'd you—" Yang started.

"Doesn't matter," Ruby said quickly, holding up Penny's sword. "We got what we needed. Let's go."

As the team gawked at Ruby holding Penny's weapon, Neo fell back into step beside her. Ruby glanced at her, smiling faintly.

"You're the best, Neo."

Neo gave an exaggerated shrug, smirking as if to say, I know.

As they walked forward, the argument behind them died down. Ruby ran her fingers along Penny's sword, her resolve hardening. Penny was gone, but her memory—and her hope—would live on.

Neo glanced at her silently, understanding without words. For Ruby, this was grief and healing. For Neo, it was the quiet acknowledgment that, somehow, they were a team now—an unlikely duo in a strange world.

And somewhere, deep in the Ever After, Aardvark snorted happily, already waiting for their next adventure.

Chapter 12: Echoes of Unease

The Ever After, for all its vibrant wonder and whimsical oddities, had a way of unsettling even the strongest of hearts. Ruby and Neo—veterans of Skyrim's dragons, bandits, and Daedric princes—found themselves unusually wary as they followed the winding paths deeper into the strange world.

The ground beneath them shimmered with dreamlike hues, and even Little seemed unusually quiet, clutching Ruby's shoulder tightly.

The Cat's Arrival

It started with a shadow flitting between the trees. A voice followed—smooth, curious, and far too close.

"Well, now, what do we have here?"

Ruby froze mid-step, her instincts screaming at her like a dragon was about to descend. Neo's hand instantly went to her umbrella, her expression sharpening as she scanned the trees. Out of the shifting mist, The Curious Cat emerged.

A sleek feline form stepped into view, its fur an unnatural mix of shimmering colors that seemed to change whenever Ruby blinked. Its sharp golden eyes locked onto her first, then flicked to Neo with unnerving focus. The cat's smile, wide and clever, unsettled Ruby more than it should have.

"Hello, travelers!" The Cat purred, weaving through the air like liquid. "You've walked quite far to reach me. But tell me…" Its head tilted unnaturally. "…what is it you seek?"

Neo immediately stepped closer to Ruby, a silent but clear this thing isn't right. Ruby's fingers instinctively brushed the hilt of Mythic Rose, her senses on high alert.

The feeling was unmistakable—an echo of the same unease they had felt standing before Hermaeus Mora's great, writhing form back in Skyrim. Ancient, unknowable, and watching.

The Cat's smile widened as if it could read their thoughts. "You've both met something like me before, haven't you? I can see it on you—your clever minds, so full of riddles and secrets."

Ruby stiffened, her heart pounding. Neo's knuckles whitened around her weapon.

Hermaeus Mora was still stuck in his infinite loop of confusion over a riddle Ruby had tossed at him: "If the more you take, the more you leave behind, what am I?" (It was footsteps. He had not been pleased.)

The Cat chuckled softly, the sound like nails on silk. "Oh, I do love mortals with sharp instincts. Be careful where they take you."

Ruby glared. "Thanks for the advice, but we're fine."

"Hmm…" The Cat hummed knowingly before vanishing with a flick of its tail, its form slipping back into the mist. "For now."

Neo and Ruby remained perfectly still for several moments before Ruby muttered, "I hate cats."

Neo silently nodded her agreement, relaxing her grip on her umbrella—only slightly.

The Herbalist and a Familiar Face

The trail eventually led them to a cozy glade. In the center sat a Caterpillar Herbalist, perched atop a mushroom and surrounded by colorful bottles of fragrant herbs and potions. It chewed thoughtfully on a leaf as it inspected the newcomers.

"Oh! Visitors, visitors," the Caterpillar hummed. "Are you lost or are you looking to be found?"

Ruby sighed, glad for a break from ominous felines. "Neither. We're just… trying to get somewhere."

The Caterpillar tilted its head, antennae twitching. "You may wish to look inside before you look ahead."

Before Ruby could ask what that meant, she heard something—familiar footsteps. She turned sharply, eyes widening as a small figure emerged from behind the herbalist's table.

It was her.

A much younger Ruby Rose stepped into view—maybe 10 years old, her cloak slightly oversized, Crescent Rose gleaming in her hands. Her silver eyes shone brightly with wonder and hope as she looked up at her older self.

Neo froze, her expression unreadable as she glanced between the two. Ruby felt her throat tighten.

"You're…" Ruby whispered, unsure what to say.

The younger Ruby grinned wide, bouncing on her heels. "Wow! Are you the hero I always wanted to be?"

The question hit Ruby like a punch to the gut. Her mouth opened to answer, but the words caught in her throat. For all her accomplishments—for dragons slain, magic learned, and friends saved—was she really the hero she dreamed of as a child?

Neo glanced at Ruby, her usual smirk replaced with something softer. She didn't intervene, letting Ruby decide her own answer.

Ruby finally sighed, kneeling so she could look her younger self in the eyes. "No," she admitted softly. "I'm not."

The younger Ruby blinked, her smile faltering. "Oh."

Ruby smiled faintly. "But I'm something better. I'm someone who survived, who made it through the worst of things. I've fought dragons and monsters, I've lost people I loved, but… I'm still here. I'm stronger now. And I'll keep fighting to protect everyone I care about."

The younger Ruby tilted her head, her eyes shining with understanding beyond her years. After a moment, she smiled again—gentler this time. "That's even cooler."

Ruby's breath hitched as the younger version of herself slowly began to shimmer and fade, her smile lingering like a promise.

"Don't forget who you are," the child whispered before disappearing completely.

Moving Forward

Ruby stared at the empty spot where her younger self had stood, a bittersweet ache in her chest. Neo stepped closer, placing a hand on her shoulder. Ruby didn't flinch away, just let herself lean into Neo's silent presence.

"That was… weird," Ruby muttered finally, wiping her eyes.

Neo gave a light tap to her shoulder, smirking as if to say, But you handled it.

Ruby smiled faintly, standing tall again. "Yeah. I guess I did."

The Caterpillar hummed approvingly, its antennae twitching. "Go on now, travelers. The path waits for no one, but it always knows where it leads."

Ruby glanced at Neo, who shrugged as if to say let's keep moving. With that, the two continued forward, the strange warmth of the encounter lingering behind them like a quiet beacon of hope.

And somewhere, Hermaeus Mora, still stuck on the same riddle, shuddered at the feeling of Ruby Rose's presence even across realities.

Chapter 13: Lightning, Blushes, and Horror

Ruby found herself once again atop Aardvark, reins in hand as the skeletal steed clopped along the Ever After's winding trails. Neo sat in front, as smug and silent as ever, perched on the saddle like it was a throne made just for her.

It had become a routine of sorts—Neo up front, Ruby steering, and Aardvark acting as the ever-loyal (and slightly unsettling) steed. The arrangement worked, even if it had sparked plenty of whispered questions from the rest of Team RWBY.

The Arm Around the Waist

The ride was quiet, save for the soft clatter of bones and the distant sounds of the Ever After. Ruby, lost in thought, let her mind wander—to Skyrim, to dragons, to the bond that had formed between her and Neo. It wasn't friendship exactly, but it wasn't not friendship, either. Neo, for all her quirks and occasional chaos, had become… important.

Before Ruby realized what she was doing, her arm unconsciously wrapped around Neo's waist, her grip firm yet absentminded as Aardvark navigated a small hill.

Neo froze.

A faint blush dusted Neo's cheeks as she glanced back over her shoulder, wide-eyed for a split second before masking it with her usual smirk. Her hands gripped her umbrella a little tighter, and she looked straight ahead, pretending everything was normal.

It was not normal.

The Team's Reaction

A short ways back, Yang, Weiss, and Blake came to a dead stop.

Yang's jaw practically hit the ground. "Is… is Ruby hugging Neo?"

Weiss paled visibly, rubbing her temples. "I'm going to pretend I didn't see that."

Blake tilted her head, observing carefully. "No… that's not just hugging. That's—"

Yang finally exploded, jogging up alongside Aardvark. "Okay, hold on!"

Ruby blinked out of her thoughts, snapping back to reality. "Huh? What?"

Yang pointed an accusatory finger. "What's going on here, Rubes? Why are you two… like that?!"

Neo smirked, leaning back slightly into Ruby's arm just to make Yang twitch harder.

Ruby's face flushed bright red as she yanked her arm back like it had been burned. "I wasn't—! I mean—! It's not what you think!"

"Oh, I think it's exactly what I think," Yang shot back, looking between Ruby and Neo in disbelief. "You've been acting weird. You're riding around on a skeleton horse with Neo Politan sitting in front like she's your—"

"Yang!" Ruby groaned, her face in her hands.

Weiss stepped in, her voice pinched. "Ruby, just explain yourself. Please."

Ruby sighed and straightened up, her blush still lingering. "Fine. Look, it's a long story, okay? Neo and I got stuck together in another world. A crazy one. Full of dragons, magic, and… and we survived."

Yang blinked. "Dragons? Magic?"

Ruby nodded. "Yeah. Neo and I had to fight through everything Skyrim threw at us. I learned magic, she learned magic, we killed a god or two. We got really good at… not dying. And… I guess we just… trust each other now."

Neo smirked knowingly, crossing her arms and leaning back in a way that screamed See?

Weiss stared. "You trust Neo Politan?"

Ruby shrugged. "Yeah. She's not as bad as you think. She saved my life more times than I can count."

Yang's expression twisted into a mix of horror and reluctant acceptance. "Ruby… I'm not sure whether to be proud or worried."

"Both?" Blake added helpfully, though she looked slightly amused.

The Jabberwalker Appears

Before anyone could press further, the bushes ahead rustled violently. The air grew heavy, the ground trembling as a familiar monstrous figure—the Jabberwalker—burst out of the underbrush, its glowing, jagged form charging straight at them with a shriek.

"Not this guy again," Ruby muttered.

The rest of the team tensed, drawing their weapons. Neo, meanwhile, calmly flicked her umbrella open, as if unimpressed.

Ruby, still seated on Aardvark, sighed and raised her hand, her silver eyes sparking with power. "I've had enough of you!"

Before the Jabberwalker could even reach them, Ruby unleashed a lightning blast straight from her palm. The arc of blue electricity struck the creature square in the chest with a crackling BOOM, sending it stumbling backward with a pained screech.

The beast stared at her, wide-eyed, before turning tail and fleeing into the forest.

The clearing fell silent, save for the faint sizzle of static still lingering in the air.

Yang gawked. "Did you just… lightning blast it?"

Ruby lowered her hand, brushing her cloak off casually. "Yeah. Magic. Skyrim stuff."

Neo gave Ruby a slow, mocking clap from the front of Aardvark.

Little, perched happily on Ruby's shoulder, chirped, "Ruby and Neo look so cute together! Like heroes in a storybook!"

Ruby choked. "What?! Little, no!"

Neo raised an eyebrow, clearly considering it a compliment, her smirk turning just a little flirtatious.

Yang buried her face in her hands. "This is getting so weird."

Blake stifled a laugh while Weiss shook her head, mumbling, "I need a break."

Ruby sighed, rubbing her temples. "Okay, everyone calm down. Let's just keep moving. No more Jabberwalkers. No more talking about Neo and me."

Neo tilted her head back, grinning smugly. She didn't say anything—she didn't need to.

Ruby muttered under her breath, "I swear, she's gonna drive me crazy."

Little chirped cheerfully. "But you look happy, Ruby!"

Ruby groaned. "Little, stop helping."

And so, Aardvark trotted forward, carrying a flustered Ruby and a far-too-pleased Neo, while the rest of Team RWBY followed, half horrified and half curious about just what had happened between those two in Skyrim.

And somewhere, Sheogorath was watching, laughing uncontrollably at the chaos he'd unwittingly set in motion.

Chapter 14: Knights, Grief, and Broken Pleas

The path through the Ever After twisted on, vibrant yet unsettling in its strange consistency. Ruby guided Aardvark forward with Neo perched smugly in front, their dynamic unchanged despite the tension surrounding them. The rest of Team RWBY trailed behind, warily watching Ruby and Neo, still adjusting to this unexpected partnership.

It wasn't long before they stumbled upon something—or someone—that left them speechless.

The Rusted Knight

The sound of metal clanking filled the clearing as they approached a ramshackle village of glowing, paper-thin creatures—the Paper Pleasers. In the center of it all stood a familiar figure: a tall man clad in a rusted suit of armor, his tattered cape fluttering faintly in the Ever After's soft breeze.

"Jaune?" Ruby's voice trembled with disbelief.

The man turned, his expression etched with exhaustion and sadness. His once-boyish features were sharper now, aged beyond his years. This was Jaune Arc, but… not the Jaune Ruby remembered.

"Ruby? Weiss? Yang? Blake?" Jaune's voice cracked, as though seeing them was a hallucination. "You're… you're really here?"

Yang blinked. "Uh, Jaune? What happened to you?"

Jaune's face faltered as he looked down at himself—at the rusted armor, the sword worn to a dull edge. "Time happened," he murmured bitterly. "This place… happened."

The Paper Pleasers

The Paper Pleasers surrounded Jaune, their simple forms bobbing joyfully as they tended to their quaint little village. Jaune spoke of them with an odd affection—like a shepherd describing his flock.

"I found them here," Jaune explained softly. "They just… live to serve, to help. I keep them safe, and they give me purpose."

Ruby frowned, something about Jaune's tone putting her on edge. He spoke like a man clinging to a lifeline made of fraying threads. Neo, perched silently nearby, shot Ruby a knowing look—something's not right.

"Jaune…" Weiss started carefully. "How long have you been here?"

Jaune's eyes grew distant. "I don't know. Time doesn't work the same here. I've… lost track."

The Truth About Penny

It was then, as the conversation lulled, that Jaune's expression darkened. He looked at Ruby, guilt wracking his features.

"Ruby… I need to tell you something," Jaune said hoarsely. "About Penny."

Ruby's breath hitched. Neo stiffened beside her, silently watching.

"She didn't die in the fight with Cinder," Jaune continued, his voice trembling. "Penny was hurt, bad—she couldn't move. Cinder would've killed her and stolen her powers."

Ruby's chest tightened painfully. "What are you saying?"

Jaune swallowed hard. "Penny… she asked me to do it. She asked me to end her. She didn't want Cinder to win."

Ruby's world tilted. "No…"

"She gave me no choice," Jaune whispered, his voice cracking. "It was her decision—her last wish. I couldn't—"

Ruby couldn't hear the rest. Her ears rang, her heart pounding in her chest like it was going to shatter.

Neo stepped up beside her, placing a hand on her arm, silently anchoring her. Ruby clenched her fists, tears burning in her eyes. "Jaune… why didn't you save her?"

"I tried!" Jaune cried desperately. "I did everything I could! I…" He fell silent, his gaze dropping to the ground. "I failed."

The Paper Pleasers' Trickery

The Paper Pleasers, seemingly oblivious to the tension, continued their cheerful work. Yet, Ruby noticed something—a shift. The way they circled Jaune, their movements oddly deliberate.

Little whispered into Ruby's ear, "They're up to something."

Ruby blinked, suddenly seeing it clearly—the Paper Pleasers weren't aimlessly building or working. They were leading Jaune toward a destination.

"They're tricking him," Ruby realized aloud.

Weiss frowned. "What do you mean?"

"They're trying to 'ascend,' right?" Ruby said, eyes narrowing. "But Jaune's been keeping them here, protecting them when they don't need protecting."

Yang raised an eyebrow. "So… what? They're using him?"

Ruby nodded. "Yeah. And he doesn't even see it."

The Moment of Realization

Jaune stood in the center of the village, surrounded by the Paper Pleasers as they praised him, their voices sweet and false.

"You're such a good knight!" they chirped. "You keep us safe! You give us purpose!"

Ruby stepped forward, her voice cutting through the illusion. "Jaune, stop!"

Jaune turned, confusion marring his face. "What?"

"They're not helping you," Ruby said, her voice firm. "They're tricking you so they can ascend. They don't want your protection—they want to leave."

Jaune staggered back, shaking his head. "No… no, they need me. I'm helping them!"

The Paper Pleasers began to shimmer, their forms folding and shifting. Jaune's expression broke as he realized the truth.

"No…" Jaune whispered, his voice hollow. "I was keeping them alive… I thought…"

Neo, standing beside Ruby, rolled her eyes and tapped her umbrella against her shoulder as if to say, Told you so.

The Paper Pleasers smiled one last time. "Thank you, Rusted Knight. Fair is fair." And then, they vanished—ascending into motes of light that scattered across the sky.

Jaune fell to his knees, his sword clattering to the ground.

Ruby stepped closer, her voice soft but steady. "Jaune… it wasn't your fault. None of it was."

Jaune looked up at her, broken and lost, but something in Ruby's words anchored him—just a little.

Neo, watching quietly, let out a small sigh. She nudged Ruby gently, silently signaling that they should keep moving.

Ruby nodded. "Come on, Jaune. It's time to go."

As the group left the village behind, Ruby glanced at Neo, who shot her a sly look that said, You handled that better than I thought.

Ruby smiled faintly, whispering, "Thanks… for being here."

Neo just shrugged, smirking—but Ruby caught the warmth behind her eyes.

Yang muttered under her breath to Blake, "I don't get what's happening with those two, but it's weirdly wholesome."

Little chimed in from Ruby's shoulder, chirping cheerfully, "Ruby and Neo make a cute team!"

Ruby groaned. "Little, not you too!"

Neo stifled a laugh, and even Weiss rolled her eyes with a reluctant smile.

The Ever After loomed ahead, its paths winding and unknown, but for the first time in a while, Ruby felt… steady. Whatever came next, she had her team—and, unexpectedly, Neo—by her side.

Chapter 15: Memory Lane in the Ponderstorm

The Ever After had always been strange, but the Ponderstorm was something else entirely. A thick mist rolled over the ground, shimmering and shifting like liquid silver. The sky above crackled with strange flashes of light, while distant echoes of thoughts and memories whispered softly through the air.

It had begun when Jaune's grief finally broke. The weight of the Paper Pleasers, Penny's fate, and his own sense of failure surged outward like a ripple in the very fabric of the Ever After. The storm formed as if the world itself was grieving alongside him.

The Team Splinters

Blake and Yang pulled away from the group, their voices soft and strained as they tried to sort through their feelings amid the chaos. Weiss hovered beside Jaune, doing her best to calm him as he paced in a panic, muttering apologies to no one in particular.

Ruby, however, felt the Ponderstorm tugging at her—pulling her. She could hear it humming in her bones, like a distant melody she couldn't place. Beside her, Neo seemed equally affected, staring out into the mist with narrowed eyes.

"What is this?" Ruby muttered, shivering slightly as the storm thickened.

Neo didn't answer, but her body tensed—she felt it too.

Then, the mist shifted.

Memory Lane

Ruby blinked and suddenly found herself standing in a new space—a corridor lined with glowing fragments, each one a frozen memory. Neo stood beside her, equally startled. They turned to face each other, instinctively knowing that the storm had brought them here for a reason.

Ruby exhaled softly. "Guess this is Memory Lane…"

Neo raised an eyebrow, her usual smirk faltering slightly.

"Looks like we're walking it together," Ruby added, a bit more softly.

Neo tilted her head in a rare moment of uncertainty, but Ruby offered a small, reassuring smile. "Come on. Let's figure this out."

Neo's Memories

The first glowing memory appeared, and Ruby felt herself drawn toward it. Neo tensed beside her, but Ruby reached for it carefully.

The memory unfolded: a young Neo, barely a child, being ignored by adults who didn't understand her silence. Her small hands clutched a makeshift toy, her expression stoic but her eyes sad.

Ruby's heart sank. "You were so lonely…"

Neo shot her a sharp glare, clearly uncomfortable with Ruby seeing her vulnerability, but Ruby didn't mock her. Instead, she placed a hand on Neo's shoulder.

"I'm sorry," Ruby whispered. "No one should feel like that."

Neo blinked, startled by the gentle words. For the first time, her walls wavered.

More memories followed:

Neo and Roman laughing as they outsmarted rival gangs, Roman acting like the older brother Neo never had.

The night Roman died—Neo standing in the ruins of their plans, her silent scream etched into the storm.

Ruby flinched. "Neo…"

Neo turned away, crossing her arms tightly as if shielding herself.

But Ruby didn't pull back. Instead, she murmured, "I understand now. Losing someone like that… it breaks you."

Neo glanced at her, softening slightly, as Ruby gently took her hand.

Ruby's Memories

Now it was Neo's turn. Another memory formed—a young Ruby in a vast field on Patch, spinning in circles with Crescent Rose as she shouted, "I'm going to be a hero!"

Neo raised an eyebrow, smirking faintly.

"Yeah, I was that kid," Ruby admitted, scratching her neck.

The memories shifted, darker this time. Ruby kneeling in the wreckage of Beacon, her silver eyes filled with tears. Pyrrha. Penny. Every failure weighing heavier on her shoulders.

Neo's smirk faded. For the first time, Neo stepped forward, reaching out.

Ruby glanced at her. "It's a lot, isn't it?"

Neo nodded silently, her eyes softer than Ruby had ever seen them.

The final memory appeared: Ruby standing at the Throat of the World, battling Alduin. Flames and shouts thundered across the battlefield as Ruby's determination burned brighter than the sun. Neo watched, eyes wide, as Ruby struck the final blow.

"You're stronger than anyone I've ever known," Neo's expression seemed to say without words.

Ruby laughed softly, wiping a tear from her cheek. "I didn't do it alone. I had you. In Skyrim, in all the chaos… you were there."

Neo blinked, startled.

"You saved me, Neo," Ruby continued, her voice steady but soft. "You gave me someone to rely on when I felt completely alone. Even when you were annoying and stubborn and smug, you never gave up on me."

Neo stared at her, her face flushed faintly pink.

The Confession

The storm began to settle, the memories fading into mist. The two stood alone now, the silver glow of the Ponderstorm surrounding them like starlight.

Ruby turned to Neo, her silver eyes bright with emotion. "Neo… I don't know what we are, but… I care about you. You helped me heal when no one else could."

Neo stared at her, her face a mix of disbelief and something soft. Slowly, she reached out, lightly flicking Ruby's cloak—a silent You saved me too.

Ruby smiled, her heart pounding. "I think I… love you."

Neo's eyes widened, her face turning bright pink. But instead of smirking or deflecting, Neo nodded softly, her expression earnest for once. She raised her hand and pointed to herself, then to Ruby, a silent reply that said, I love you too.

Ruby's breath caught, tears welling up in her eyes as she laughed softly. "We're a weird team, huh?"

Neo rolled her eyes but smiled—a genuine, beautiful smile.

The Storm Breaks

The Ponderstorm began to clear, its mist lifting as the team reappeared in the distance, calling out for Ruby and Neo.

Ruby turned to Neo, offering her hand. Neo hesitated for only a moment before taking it, their fingers intertwining as they walked out of the storm together.

When Yang spotted them, she opened her mouth to say something, but Blake elbowed her before she could ruin the moment. Weiss, watching from afar, sighed with an exasperated smile.

Little chirped happily, bouncing on Ruby's shoulder. "See? I told you two look cute together!"

Ruby blushed. "Little, stop."

Neo smirked and nudged Ruby playfully, earning a smile in return.

And as the team regrouped, Ruby realized something: for the first time in a long time, she felt whole. She had her team, her memories, and Neo—her partner in chaos, her unlikely ally, and, maybe, her love.

Whatever came next, Ruby knew she wouldn't face it alone.

Chapter 16: The Eldritch Cat and the Tree of Creation

The team finally stood before the Tree, its towering form stretching far beyond their vision. Its bark shimmered with a faint golden glow, and its branches weaved into the fabric of the Ever After's sky itself. The ground rumbled faintly with power—old power.

But they weren't alone.

The Curious Cat appeared in the clearing, stepping from the shadows with an unnatural fluidity that made Ruby's hair stand on end. Its eyes burned with golden light, and its smile stretched far too wide.

"Well, well," it purred, its voice echoing unnaturally. "So you've made it here. But you don't belong, do you?"

Ruby's instincts flared. She stepped forward, Mythic Rose already in her hands. "Team, fall back," she ordered firmly.

"What?" Weiss snapped. "Ruby, we're not—"

"You're not ready," Ruby cut her off, her silver eyes blazing. "This isn't like fighting Cinder or Salem. This thing is an Eldritch Being."

The Cat chuckled ominously. "Oh, she understands. I've been around far longer than you can imagine. I exist because I choose to. Do you really think you can fight me?"

Ruby ignored the Cat's taunts, turning to Neo. "Neo, you're with me. Guard my shadow."

Neo blinked, then raised an eyebrow, smirking faintly as if to say Really?

"Yes," Ruby muttered. "It's a weak spot for Eldritch fights. Trust me."

Neo rolled her eyes but nodded, unfolding her umbrella as she moved to stand behind Ruby, her sharp gaze locked on Ruby's shadow like it might leap off the ground at any moment.

The Battle of Immortal Beings

The Cat shifted, its form expanding and distorting. Its once playful presence unraveled into something monstrous. Tendrils of shadow and gold writhed from its body, claws elongating as its golden eyes split into dozens of glowing orbs scattered across its shifting face.

Ruby set her stance, Mythic Rose shifting into its greatsword form, glowing with Dragon Runes and crackling with her Battle Enchant. She narrowed her eyes and whispered, "Yol Toor Shul."

Her blade ignited with dragon fire.

The Cat hissed, lunging forward with unnatural speed, tendrils snapping at Ruby like whips. She dodged and countered with a shout.

"Fus Ro Dah!"

The Thu'um echoed like thunder, the force slamming into the Cat and sending it skidding back, gouging deep trenches into the earth. Neo moved swiftly, darting around Ruby's shadow to slice through rogue tendrils with deadly precision, her illusion semblance amplifying her unpredictability.

The Cat roared, the sound vibrating through reality itself, and surged forward again. Ruby blocked its clawed swipe, sparks flying as Mythic Rose held strong. With a burst of strength, Ruby shouted, "Zun Haal Viik!"

The Cat's claws flickered, vanishing briefly as its form wavered, but it hissed again and reformed.

"You cannot destroy me," it snarled. "I am eternal!"

Ruby smirked, her silver eyes gleaming. "Yeah, well, you're not the first 'eternal' being I've killed."

Neo appeared beside her, her blade stabbing into the Cat's shadow, making it screech in pain. Ruby lunged forward, Mythic Rose shifting into its scythe form mid-swing. She cleaved through its center, dragon fire trailing behind the blade like a comet.

The Cat shrieked, its form unraveling further. It lashed out wildly, nearly catching Ruby, but Neo intercepted with a flurry of dagger strikes.

Ruby planted her feet, raised her blade, and channeled everything she had—her magic, her Thu'um, and her aura.

"Neo, now!" Ruby shouted.

Neo grinned and nodded, darting back as Ruby unleashed her final attack.

"STRUN BAH QO!"

The skies darkened as a bolt of lightning exploded from the heavens, striking Mythic Rose as Ruby swung the blade down in a massive arc. The Cat's distorted form was caught in the blast—lightning, fire, and dragon force consuming it entirely.

With one final, unearthly scream, the Curious Cat disintegrated into a cloud of shimmering dust, its power scattering into the wind.

The Blacksmith Tree God

As silence settled over the clearing, the ground trembled softly. The Tree pulsed with light, and from its base emerged a new figure—a towering Blacksmith, their form intertwined with the roots and bark of the Tree. Their voice boomed, deep and ancient.

"Well done, little warriors," the Blacksmith said, their tone reverent yet weary. "You have faced an immortal guardian of this realm and prevailed."

Ruby, breathing heavily, steadied herself against Mythic Rose. Neo stepped up beside her, smirking as if to say We did it.

The Blacksmith continued. "This Tree—this realm—was not always as it is. The Brothers, the 'gods' you know, were born of chaos and order. Fractured beings, much like this land."

Ruby groaned, rubbing her temples. "Great. So you're saying we're probably gonna have to deal with fae gods next?"

The Blacksmith tilted their head, amused. "Perhaps. But not today. Today, you have earned rest."

As the Blacksmith spoke, Little stepped forward. They looked up at the Tree, eyes wide with understanding, before turning to Ruby. "I think it's time for me to go," Little said softly.

Ruby blinked. "What do you mean, go?"

"I think… I'm supposed to ascend now." Little smiled, their voice filled with warmth. "Thank you, Ruby. You helped me find my way."

Before Ruby could respond, Little's form glowed softly and began to shimmer, ascending like the Paper Pleasers before them.

Neo nudged Ruby, smirking faintly as if to say don't get sappy, but Ruby just smiled, a small tear sliding down her cheek.

What Comes Next

As the Blacksmith disappeared back into the Tree, Ruby turned to Neo, who looked at her expectantly.

Ruby chuckled weakly. "So, we killed an immortal cat god, met a literal Tree god, and now we might have to fight fae gods. How's that for a day?"

Neo smirked, rolling her eyes.

Yang approached warily, dragging Blake and Weiss behind her. "Ruby, I have so many questions."

Ruby grinned tiredly, leaning against Mythic Rose. "Yeah, well, get in line."

Neo crossed her arms smugly, nodding toward Ruby like she was her champion now. Ruby just sighed, shaking her head fondly.

Together, they stood at the base of the Tree, stronger than ever, ready to face whatever came next.

And somewhere, far beyond their sight, Hermaeus Mora shivered in his infinite library, muttering anxiously to himself. "Burn my library… she can't. She won't… can she?"

Chapter 17: Return to Remnant

The light of the Ever After faded as Ruby and her team stepped through the portal. The familiar pull of gravity and the sharp, crisp air of Remnant greeted them like a slap in the face. Ruby's boots crunched against solid ground, and for the first time in what felt like forever, she took in the sky—Remnant's sky.

Neo stood beside her, uncharacteristically quiet, her gaze scanning their surroundings. Team RWBY and Jaune stumbled through the portal one by one, blinking against the sudden shift.

"We're back," Blake breathed in disbelief, her amber eyes wide.

Yang cracked her knuckles, grinning. "I missed solid ground. And real air."

Weiss looked around carefully, brows furrowing. "Where exactly is here?"

Ruby turned, her silver eyes sweeping across the familiar landscape. The remnants of Shade Academy rose before them, its walls fortified and banners flapping proudly in the wind.

"It's Vacuo," Ruby whispered, stunned.

A Warm Welcome and a Bigger Surprise

Before they could fully process their surroundings, the sound of marching echoed through the air. Lines of soldiers—Huntsmen, Huntresses, and militia—moved in perfect formation, carrying banners of every kingdom: Vale, Mistral, Atlas, and Vacuo.

"What the…" Yang muttered, stunned. "Is that…?"

Ruby turned sharply as figures emerged from the main gates of Shade Academy. At the front stood General Ironwood's former second-in-command, Winter Schnee, flanked by leaders from the other kingdoms: Sienna Khan, a reformed Faunus leader; representatives from Mistral's Council; and former Atlas refugees.

A voice broke the silence. "Ruby Rose."

Ruby looked up, her eyes widening. Winter approached with a mixture of awe and relief on her face. "You're alive," she said softly, her voice betraying the emotions she was trying to hide.

Ruby smiled faintly, rubbing the back of her neck. "Yeah. Took a bit of a detour."

Yang muttered under her breath, "That's an understatement."

The Message That Reached the World

Winter gestured for them to follow as she led them toward the fortified gates. "You have no idea what your message did," she said, glancing at Ruby.

"My message?" Ruby blinked.

Winter nodded. "Before the fall of Atlas, your final broadcast reached beyond the kingdoms. It inspired people. It reminded everyone that there was still hope—even in the face of Salem."

Ruby's heart raced as Winter continued. "The kingdoms have united, Ruby. Your words gave us a common purpose. Leaders, warriors, and citizens from every nation have come together to form a unified force against Salem and her Grimm."

Ruby's silver eyes widened, emotions threatening to overwhelm her. "They… they listened?"

Winter gave a small smile. "They did more than listen. They believed."

Neo stood off to the side, watching the exchange with her usual smug indifference, though her eyes lingered on Ruby for a beat longer than usual. She leaned against her umbrella, clearly amused by the hero's moment.

The Reunion

The doors to Shade Academy's main hall swung open, and Ruby's breath caught as familiar faces flooded toward them.

Nora and Ren, alive and well, sprinted forward to pull Jaune into a crushing hug. Oscar stood nearby, waving with a relieved smile. Qrow stepped out from the shadows, his eyes locking onto Ruby before his expression broke into a grin.

"Kid, you made it," Qrow said, pulling Ruby into a rough, one-armed hug.

"Barely," Ruby muttered, grinning despite herself.

Yang swept forward, reuniting with their extended friends and family, while Blake clung to Sun in a rare display of affection. Weiss received a tearful hug from Klein, who had found his way to the kingdom alongside Atlas refugees.

The room was alive with laughter, tears, and relief. Ruby found herself caught in the middle of it all, smiling through her own tears.

Neo in the Spotlight

Of course, it wasn't long before people noticed Neo.

"Uh… what's she doing here?" Qrow asked warily, his hand twitching toward his weapon.

Neo simply smirked, twirling her umbrella.

Ruby stepped between them, holding up a hand. "It's okay. She's with me."

Qrow blinked. "With you?"

Yang, still watching Neo with suspicion, muttered, "You're gonna have to explain that one, sis."

Ruby grinned awkwardly. "It's a long story. Let's just say… Neo and I took on dragons, gods, and a cat… and lived to tell the tale."

Neo tilted her head and gave an exaggerated bow, her smirk never leaving her face.

"Dragons?" Qrow raised an eyebrow. "I'm gonna need a drink for this."

Looking to the Future

As the night fell over Vacuo, the newly united forces of Remnant gathered to celebrate their first real victory: hope. Ruby sat on the edge of the Academy's wall, watching the stars overhead.

Neo joined her quietly, settling beside her with an air of casual confidence.

"You know," Ruby said softly, breaking the silence, "I didn't think I'd ever get back here. Back to my team. To all of this."

Neo glanced at her, raising an eyebrow.

Ruby smiled faintly. "But you… you were there. Through everything. And I wouldn't have made it without you."

Neo rolled her eyes playfully but offered a small, genuine smile.

Ruby looked back at the stars, her silver eyes filled with resolve. "We're going to win this, Neo. All of us. Together."

Neo tilted her head, smirking as if to say You'd better.

Ruby laughed softly, feeling a spark of hope unlike anything she'd felt before. For the first time in a long time, the world didn't feel so heavy.

And as the kingdoms gathered, readying themselves for the battles ahead, Ruby knew one thing for certain: they would face the darkness together.

Neo leaned back, twirling her umbrella as the wind swept through the night air. Whatever came next, she'd be right there—beside Ruby, through it all.