Disclaimer: Don't own either Rwby or Type Moon. So enjoy or don't
Chapter 40: Rest and Revelations in Argus
The city of Argus was unlike anywhere they had been in quite some time. Its seaside charm, mixed with the powerful military presence, created an atmosphere that was both serene and brimming with tension. Yet for the group, it was the first true opportunity to relax after their harrowing journey. The crisp sea breeze, the sound of waves crashing against the cliffs, and the sight of fishing boats returning to the harbor each evening gave a sense of peace—one that had eluded them for too long.
Each day, the group would split off in different directions to explore the bustling streets of Argus. Ruby and Weiss were particularly fond of visiting the weapon shops and blacksmiths scattered around the city, Weiss more out of fascination for the craftsmanship, while Ruby was constantly on the lookout for upgrades to Crescent Rose. Yang, on the other hand, preferred the open market near the port, where vendors sold everything from exotic spices to handcrafted jewelry. She found herself drawn to the energy of the place, the colors and sounds a welcome distraction from the darker thoughts she had been carrying.
Nora and Ren, inseparable as always, spent their days trying the local cuisine, much to Nora's delight. The energetic girl's excitement for food had no limits, and every meal was an adventure for her. Ren, ever the calm presence, enjoyed watching his friend's joy, feeling content that they had these moments of lightness after everything they had endured.
Jaune, Shirou, and Oscar spent their time bonding in quieter ways. After all they had been through, each of them carried their own burdens, their own scars. For Jaune, the pain of losing Pyrrha still lingered, a wound that time had not yet healed. Oscar, still adjusting to his dual existence with Ozpin, often found himself struggling to reconcile his own thoughts with the ancient wizard's presence in his mind. Shirou, though outwardly composed, carried the weight of countless lives from his own world—both the ones he had saved and the ones he had failed.
It was during one of their afternoons at the Cotta household, with Adrian playing on the living room floor, that Jaune finally asked the question that had been on his mind since he had seen Shirou fight.
"Shirou… back on the train and with that monster, those swords of yours. What exactly are you?"
Shirou paused, setting down the book he had been half-heartedly reading. He looked at Jaune, then at Oscar, who had also been listening quietly. Taking a deep breath, he decided it was time to share his story.
He spoke of his past, his life as a magus, and the Holy Grail War that had defined him. He explained his ability to Trace weapons, how he could replicate any blade he had seen, and how his powers stemmed from the rules of his world—so different from the semblances and auras they were familiar with. The Holy Grail War, with its brutal nature and the sacrifices it demanded, hung heavily in his words. As he spoke, Jaune, Nora, and Ren listened in silence, the weight of Shirou's story settling over them like a shadow.
"I've seen too much," Shirou said quietly, staring at his hands. "I've made promises I couldn't keep, and I've fought battles where there was no right choice. But I chose to be a Hero of Justice, and that means standing by the people who need me—no matter the cost."
Jaune's expression softened. He understood more than most the burden of impossible choices, of losing someone you cared about while trying to do the right thing. He placed a hand on Shirou's shoulder. "You've been through a lot," Jaune said. "But you're here now. We're glad to have you with us."
Nora, sitting cross-legged on the floor, chimed in with her usual energy. "Yeah! And besides, you're part of our team now. We stick together, no matter what!"
Ren nodded, though his expression was more thoughtful. "It's strange, hearing about a world so different from ours… but I get it. We all have to carry our own burdens."
Shirou felt a warmth in his chest, one he hadn't expected. These people, despite their own struggles, had accepted him without hesitation. It was something he hadn't realized he needed.
Later that night, after everyone had settled in, Shirou found himself standing on the porch of the Cotta house, looking out at the moonlit sea. The wind tugged at his hair, and the salty air reminded him of home, though in a way he couldn't fully explain. He had spent so long wandering, unsure of where he truly belonged, but now… now he felt like he had found something.
A quiet presence joined him. Jaune stepped out, closing the door softly behind him.
"I've been thinking about what you said earlier," Jaune began, leaning on the railing beside Shirou. "About being a hero."
Shirou glanced at him, waiting.
"I used to think I knew what that meant," Jaune continued, his voice low. "Back at Beacon, I thought being a hero was about saving everyone, about being strong enough to protect the people I cared about. But after… After Pyrrha, I realized it's not that simple. There are some things you can't protect people from."
Shirou's expression tightened. "I know what you mean. Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, you can't save everyone."
"But that doesn't mean we stop trying, right?" Jaune's eyes met his, filled with determination. "We keep moving forward. For them."
For a moment, neither of them spoke, the only sound was the soft rush of the waves against the shore. Then, slowly, Shirou nodded.
"For them."
The two of them stood in silence, the weight of their shared understanding settling between them. Both had lost people they couldn't protect, both had made choices that still haunted them—but now, together with their friends, they were ready to face whatever came next.
The day of relaxation Saphron had planned for the girls started early, as she ushered them out of the Cotta household before any of them could protest. "No arguments," she said, grinning as she locked the door behind them. "You've all been through way too much lately, and you deserve this." The group exchanged amused glances but followed willingly. After everything they had endured, a spa day sounded like exactly what they needed.
The spa, a beautiful, upscale building nestled near the cliffs overlooking the sea, was a picture of serenity. Its natural stone walls were complemented by warm wood tones, and soft, relaxing music drifted through the air as the girls entered. The receptionist greeted them with a smile, offering them herbal tea as they were led to the changing rooms.
The first stop was the hot springs. Ruby was the first to express her excitement, her eyes wide as she looked at the large, steaming pools framed by smooth rocks and gentle waterfalls.
"This is so cool!" Ruby exclaimed, already slipping out of her clothes and into a robe. Weiss rolled her eyes, but even she couldn't hide her appreciation for the soothing ambiance.
As they stepped into the baths, the warm water immediately eased the tension in their muscles. Yang let out a contented sigh, sinking into the water up to her shoulders. "Oh, this is heaven," she muttered, eyes closed as she let the heat work its magic.
Blake, sitting next to her, allowed herself to relax as well, though more quietly. The warmth of the water and the peaceful surroundings were a stark contrast to the constant stress she had been under for months. For once, her mind wasn't racing, and the ever-present tension in her shoulders finally began to melt away.
Weiss, true to form, tried to maintain her usual composed demeanor, but even she couldn't help but relax. She leaned back against the edge of the bath, her snowy hair trailing in the water. "This is... nice," she admitted, and Yang chuckled beside her.
"Come on, Weiss, you can say it—this is amazing!"
"I... suppose it is," Weiss conceded, a small smile tugging at her lips.
Maria, meanwhile, was sitting at the edge of the bath, her mechanical eyes glinting in amusement as she watched the younger girls. "I've been to a lot of places in my time, but I'll admit, this might be one of the nicest ways to relax." She stretched, her joints creaking slightly but still holding strong.
Nora, as expected, couldn't sit still for long. "This is great and all," she said, splashing playfully at the water, "but when do we get to the massage part?"
Ren, if he had been there, would have sighed in exasperation. But the others just laughed, Ruby's giggles echoing through the steamy air.
After spending plenty of time soaking in the baths, the group was led to the massage rooms, where professional attendants were waiting. Each of the girls was treated to a personalized massage, the skilled hands of the masseuses working out the knots and tension from their bodies. Yang, who had been carrying the stress of protecting her sister and her friends for so long, practically melted into the massage table.
"I don't think I've ever been this relaxed," Yang mumbled into the pillow, her voice muffled but full of contentment.
Blake, on the table next to her, was quiet but visibly enjoying the experience. The constant weight of responsibility she carried—toward her team, toward the Faunus, and toward herself—seemed to lighten as her muscles were worked over. For once, she allowed herself to just be in the moment, feeling her tension slip away with every touch.
Ruby, who had never experienced a professional massage before, was initially fidgety but soon relaxed, her limbs going limp as the masseuse worked on her. "Why didn't we do this sooner?" she asked dreamily, her eyes half-closed in bliss.
Weiss, ever composed, was lying face down with her head resting on her arms. She wasn't one to outwardly show how much she was enjoying herself, but the soft sighs that escaped her every now and then were proof enough.
Once the massages were finished, the group was led to a private area where they could enjoy facials and mani-pedis. Nora, unsurprisingly, was the most enthusiastic about the whole process.
"I want the brightest colors you've got!" Nora declared to the technician, her eyes gleaming with excitement as she pointed to a selection of nail polishes. "Something that says 'I'm ready to smash some Grimm, but I also look fabulous while doing it.'"
Yang snorted with laughter from the next chair over. "Classic Nora."
Ruby, meanwhile, was having a bit of fun herself, choosing a vibrant red polish that matched the color of her cloak. She grinned as the technician painted her nails, occasionally stealing glances at Weiss, who had picked a more subdued but elegant shade of ice blue.
"I think red suits you," Weiss commented, glancing over at Ruby's nails. Ruby beamed at the compliment.
Blake, ever the quiet one, chose a dark, muted purple for her nails. As she sat back in the chair, enjoying the feeling of being pampered, she glanced over at Yang, who was in the middle of picking a golden shade for her nails to match her hair.
"I never took you for the nail-painting type," Blake teased lightly.
Yang grinned. "Hey, I can be tough and fashionable." She wiggled her freshly painted fingers. "What do you think?"
Blake smiled, her eyes softening. "It suits you."
As the day drew to a close, the girls gathered in the spa's lounge, where a tray of herbal teas and small pastries had been prepared for them. The atmosphere was light, and for the first time in a long while, there was no talk of missions, no planning for the future. It was just them, enjoying each other's company.
"Thank you for this, Saphron," Blake said quietly, cradling her cup of tea. "We really needed it."
Saphron smiled warmly at her. "You're welcome. I figured you all deserved a break after everything you've been through. And besides, it's nice to get to know the people Jaune's been talking about."
Maria, sipping her tea with a bemused expression, leaned back in her chair. "You young ones sure do know how to make a day of relaxation look like an adventure. But I suppose that's a good thing."
Weiss chuckled softly, nodding in agreement. "It's been a while since we've had time to just... be ourselves. No Grimm. No missions. Just... this."
"I think we've all earned it," Yang said, her voice quieter than usual, but no less certain. She looked at her friends—her family—and smiled. "It's nice to feel... normal for a bit."
Ruby, who had been quietly sipping her tea, looked around the room at her team, her eyes bright with affection. "We should do this more often," she said. "It's good to take a break sometimes."
During the week of rest and bonding, Blake and Shirou found themselves with a rare moment alone in the city. With the others busy with their own activities or enjoying their downtime in different ways, the two of them decided to explore Argus together. It wasn't a planned outing—more of a spontaneous decision to wander the streets and enjoy the day.
The city was bustling with life as Blake and Shirou walked side by side. Argus was a place of contrasts—vibrant markets, military patrols, and the serene sight of the sea in the distance. The cobblestone streets were alive with chatter and laughter, merchants calling out to potential customers, and children running through the streets with carefree joy. Blake, usually more reserved and quiet, found herself relaxed in Shirou's company.
"I've been here once before," Blake said softly as they passed by a small café. "But I never really took the time to explore it like this."
Shirou glanced over at her, curious. "What brought you here the first time?"
Blake hesitated for a moment, her gaze drifting to the ground. "It was during my time with the White Fang. We were... investigating the Atlas military presence here. But that feels like a lifetime ago."
Shirou didn't press her further. He could sense the weight of her past still hanging over her, but he also knew that she was working hard to leave it behind. They continued walking, the conversation light but comfortable, until the smell of something sweet caught their attention.
Blake's ears perked up ever so slightly. "Is that... hot chocolate?"
Shirou smiled. "Looks like there's a café over there. Want to get some?"
Blake's golden eyes lit up for a moment. "Sure."
They found a cozy little café tucked away from the main streets, with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The walls were lined with bookshelves, and the scent of freshly brewed cocoa filled the air. The two of them sat by the window, sipping their hot chocolate as they watched the city pass by outside.
Blake took a slow sip, savoring the taste, before glancing over at Shirou. "This is nice. I can't remember the last time I did something this... normal."
Shirou nodded, his gaze thoughtful. "It's hard to remember sometimes, isn't it? What normal even feels like." He paused, then added quietly, "Especially after everything we've been through."
Blake looked at him for a moment, understanding in her eyes. They had both seen more than their fair share of conflict—Blake, with her struggles between the White Fang and her own ideals, and Shirou, with the weight of battles and promises from his world. But here, in this quiet moment, it felt like the world had slowed down, if only for a little while.
After finishing their drinks, Blake suggested they take a walk to a place she had heard about but hadn't yet visited—Pyrrha Nikos' statue. Shirou, having only recently heard of Pyrrha from Jaune and the others, agreed.
The statue stood in a small park overlooking the city. It was a grand but somber monument, a beautiful bronze representation of Pyrrha in her battle stance, her spear raised high. The sunlight glinted off the statue, giving it an almost ethereal glow, as if Pyrrha herself was still watching over the people of Argus.
Blake stood in silence for a long time, her expression unreadable. Shirou watched her, sensing the subtle shift in her mood. He didn't say anything, giving her the space to gather her thoughts.
After a while, Blake spoke, her voice quieter than before. "I knew her, you know. At Beacon. Pyrrha was... one of the best people I've ever met. Strong, kind, and always willing to help others." She paused, her eyes distant. "Jaune cared about her a lot. I think... I think she loved him too, but neither of them ever got the chance to say it."
Shirou's chest tightened. He knew the weight of unspoken feelings, of missed opportunities, all too well. "I didn't know her, but I can see how much she meant to everyone. Especially Jaune."
Blake nodded, her gaze still fixed on the statue. "Jaune's been through so much since she died. Losing Pyrrha... it changed him. He's trying to move forward, but I can see how much it still hurts him."
Shirou looked at the statue, a deep sense of empathy washing over him. He had seen similar pain before—friends and comrades lost in battle, the weight of promises made to the fallen. "It's never easy to lose someone like that. But Jaune's strong. He'll keep going, for her."
Blake turned to him, her expression soft but sad. "You're right. He's strong. But sometimes, I wonder if he blames himself."
Shirou understood that feeling more than he cared to admit. He had blamed himself for countless losses, even when there had been nothing he could have done. "Maybe he does. But that's why it's important to remind him that he's not alone. That we're all here for him."
Blake smiled faintly, her eyes warm with gratitude. "You're a good friend, Shirou. I'm glad you're with us."
They stood in silence for a little while longer, paying their respects to Pyrrha. The sun began to dip lower in the sky, casting long shadows over the statue and the park.
As they walked away from the statue, Blake seemed quieter, more introspective. Shirou stayed by her side, sensing that she wasn't finished with what she wanted to say.
After a few minutes, she spoke again. "Sometimes, I wonder if I'll ever be able to make up for the things I've done. All the mistakes I made with the White Fang. The people I hurt."
Shirou looked at her, his expression serious but kind. "You've already started making up for it. You've chosen a different path, Blake. That's not easy. But the fact that you're trying means you're already doing better than most."
Blake's eyes softened, and for the first time that day, she let herself fully relax. "Thank you, Shirou. I think... I needed to hear that."
They continued walking in comfortable silence, their bond growing stronger with each step they took together.
By the time they returned to the Cotta household, the sun was setting, and the rest of the group was still out. Blake and Shirou decided to prepare dinner for everyone, slipping into the kitchen without a word.
Blake moved with quiet efficiency, slicing vegetables and preparing the ingredients, while Shirou worked on the stove, his focus sharp as he sautéed the ingredients she handed him. They worked in perfect sync, the sounds of chopping and cooking filling the air, accompanied by the occasional soft conversation.
As they finished preparing the meal, the others began to trickle back into the house, their faces lighting up as they smelled the food.
"Wow, something smells good!" Ruby said, bounding into the kitchen with her usual energy.
Blake and Shirou exchanged a glance, both smiling at the sight of their friends. The atmosphere in the house was warm and inviting, and as they all gathered around the table, it felt like the perfect end to a day of reflection, growth, and bonding.
The group may have been taking a much-needed break in Argus, but rest didn't mean becoming complacent. As the week went on, everyone found time to hone their skills, not only preparing for the challenges ahead but also using this opportunity to strengthen their bonds as teammates and friends. Training together became more than just practice—it was a way to connect, share techniques, and learn from one another.
The training usually began in the early mornings, when the cool breeze from the sea made the air crisp and refreshing. Ruby, ever the early riser, was the first out the door each day, her scythe Crescent Rose gleaming in the sunlight as she ran through her drills with incredible speed and precision. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and it wasn't long before the others joined her.
"Gotta stay sharp," Ruby would say with a grin. "Atlas isn't going to wait for us to be ready!"
Weiss, despite her initial grumbling about the early hours, always followed soon after. She'd stand off to the side, watching Ruby's scythe work with an appraising eye before jumping into her own practice. Myrtenaster danced in her hands as she summoned glyphs with fluid grace, pushing her speed and reflexes to their limits.
Yang and Nora often sparred against each other, both of them craving the physical intensity of a good fight. The sound of their fists clashing echoed across the training field as Yang unleashed powerful, explosive punches with Ember Celica, while Nora, with her boundless energy and fearless spirit, swung Magnhild with force that shook the ground.
Blake was more measured in her movements, practicing with her katana, Gambol Shroud, in fluid, almost dance-like motions. She focused on speed, using her semblance to create shadow clones and move unpredictably. Sometimes, she would team up with Ren in silent, synchronized practice, the two of them moving like shadows in perfect coordination. Ren's precise, almost meditative combat style contrasted with Blake's swift, deadly strikes, creating an impressive display of focus and efficiency.
Shirou found himself spending much of his training time with Jaune, Ren, and Oscar. The three of them, eager to improve their own abilities, had become increasingly curious about Shirou's unique fighting style. While Jaune worked on his swordsmanship and leadership, Ren sought to improve his combat techniques, and Oscar—still adjusting to the weight of being Ozpin's host—was eager to learn from everyone around him.
Shirou trained primarily with Kanshou and Bakuya, the twin blades flashing in the morning sun as he demonstrated his fluid swordsmanship. Jaune, determined to improve his own sword techniques, often sparred with Shirou, learning from his precise strikes and defensive maneuvers.
"Your form's getting better," Shirou commented after one particularly intense sparring session. Jaune, panting but grinning, wiped the sweat from his brow.
"Thanks. I've been practicing a lot since... well, since everything." Jaune's voice grew quieter, but Shirou could see the fire of determination in his eyes. He understood the weight that Jaune carried, especially after their visit to Pyrrha's statue. It only made him more determined to help Jaune grow stronger.
Ren, meanwhile, took a different approach to training with Shirou. While Jaune focused on swordplay, Ren was interested in learning more about Shirou's analytical mind and how he adapted in battle.
"Your ability to read the flow of a fight is impressive," Ren said after observing Shirou during one of their spars. "It's like you can predict what your opponent is going to do."
Shirou nodded thoughtfully. "It's not just about predicting—it's about understanding the way your opponent moves, their habits, their patterns. In combat, even the smallest detail can make a difference."
Ren absorbed Shirou's words, nodding slowly. He began incorporating that advice into his own training, focusing not just on his physical abilities, but on observing his surroundings and his opponent's actions more closely.
Oscar, still adjusting to his role as both a fighter and Ozpin's vessel, was eager to learn anything he could from Shirou. During their sessions, Shirou shared not only his sword skills but also some of the philosophies behind combat.
"You have a lot of potential," Shirou said to Oscar after one of their training sessions. "But don't be too hard on yourself. Everyone's path is different."
Oscar, holding the cane of Ozpin tightly, gave a small, determined nod. "I'll do my best. I just... I want to be as strong as everyone else."
Shirou's expression softened. "Strength comes in many forms. You've already shown that you have the courage to stand by your friends. That's just as important as any skill with a weapon."
Toward the end of the week, the group gathered in the courtyard behind the Cotta household. They had seen glimpses of Shirou's abilities in combat, but now they were curious to learn more about who he truly was and how his powers worked. After spending so much time with him, they knew there was something different about his abilities compared to anything they had encountered in Remnant.
Shirou stood in front of the group, knowing it was time to explain more about himself. Blake stood beside him, offering a comforting presence. Ruby, Yang, Weiss, Nora, Jaune, Ren, Oscar, and even Maria watched him expectantly.
"I've shown you all bits and pieces of what I can do," Shirou began, his voice calm but serious. "But there's more to my power than just creating weapons. My abilities stem from something deeper—my Origin."
The word made some of the group exchange curious glances. "What's an 'Origin'?" Ruby asked, wide-eyed as ever. "Is it like a Semblance?"
Shirou shook his head. "It's not exactly the same, but it's similar in that it defines who I am and what I'm capable of. My Origin is 'Sword.'"
At that, several of them blinked in surprise, particularly Jaune, who leaned forward slightly. "Wait, what does that mean? Your Origin is a sword?"
Shirou nodded. "In simple terms, an Origin is the core essence of a person's existence. It shapes everything about them—how they see the world, what drives them, and in my case, how my abilities work. My Origin is tied to the concept of swords—both physically and spiritually. Everything I am revolves around that."
Weiss frowned, her analytical mind processing the information. "So, your ability to create weapons—specifically swords—isn't just a skill or a talent. It's part of who you are?"
"Exactly," Shirou confirmed. "Swords are more than just tools for me. They're a reflection of my being. When I summon a sword, it's not just about making a weapon appear. I gain an understanding of its history, its purpose, and how it was meant to be used."
Blake, who had already heard pieces of this before, glanced at him thoughtfully. "So, does that mean every sword you trace is tied to some part of your own identity?"
"In a way, yes," Shirou said softly. "Every time I use my magic to create a sword, I connect with it on a fundamental level. I understand its purpose and the lives it has affected. That connection runs deep—deeper than anything I can fully explain."
Nora, her curiosity piqued, asked, "So, does that mean you can only make swords? Like, if you wanted to make, I dunno, a scythe or something, could you do it?"
Shirou gave a small smile at her enthusiasm. "My magic is most attuned to swords, but I can create other weapons, though not as easily. Swords are what I'm naturally drawn to because of my Origin."
Yang leaned back, arms crossed as she processed the information. "That sounds heavy. I mean, being tied to swords your whole life? Doesn't that limit you?"
"It does and it doesn't," Shirou admitted. "On one hand, it means I'm incredibly skilled when it comes to using or understanding swords. But on the other hand, it also means I'm bound by that very concept. It defines how I fight and how I approach problems. There's a weight to it—a constant reminder that every weapon I trace has a history of conflict, of battle."
Ren, who had been quietly observing, spoke up. "It must be difficult, carrying that knowledge. Every sword you create must carry the weight of the lives it's affected."
Shirou nodded gravely. "Yes. Every weapon has seen bloodshed, has been used to harm or kill. When I summon those swords, I inherit those memories, those emotions. It's a double-edged sword—both a gift and a burden."
The group fell silent for a moment, absorbing the gravity of Shirou's words. His connection to swords wasn't just about combat—it was about understanding the full weight of violence, of what it meant to wield power that could change lives.
Jaune, who had been particularly quiet, looked at Shirou with newfound respect. "That's… a lot to carry. But it makes sense why you're so determined to protect people. You understand what happens when those weapons are used for the wrong reasons."
Shirou offered a small smile. "Exactly. That's why I fight—to make sure those swords aren't misused. To protect people from the destruction they can cause."
Ruby, who had been listening with her usual mix of fascination and empathy, nodded firmly. "We're glad to have you with us, Shirou. You're one of us now. We fight together—for what's right."
It was the final morning of their restful week in Argus, and the air in the Cotta household was filled with the mouthwatering scent of a home-cooked breakfast. The team had gathered in the cozy dining area, with sunlight streaming through the windows, casting a warm glow over the room. Shirou and Blake stood at the stove, working in tandem to prepare a hearty meal for everyone.
Blake, focused on making pancakes, flipped them expertly in the pan, while Shirou stirred a pot of scrambled eggs. The atmosphere was relaxed, and everyone seemed to be in good spirits after their week of rest and bonding. Plates were already set on the table, and a fresh pot of coffee brewed nearby, filling the room with its rich aroma.
At the table, Jaune, Ren, and Nora chatted with Ruby and Yang, their laughter light and easy. Oscar and Maria were deep in conversation, while Saphron and Terra tended to little Adrian, who was giggling in Saphron's arms. Meanwhile, Qrow sat at the far end of the table, nursing a cup of black coffee, looking slightly more alert than he had the previous few days.
"Sure smells good in here," Qrow commented, though his tone was casual, his expression showed a rare hint of appreciation. "Didn't expect you two to be such good cooks."
Blake smiled faintly as she flipped another pancake. "I used to help my mom with the cooking back in Menagerie," she said softly. "It's nice to do it for a group, though."
Shirou, who was placing the scrambled eggs on a plate, glanced at Qrow with a small smile. "And I've had practice cooking for a large household. This is nothing compared to feeding a bunch of hungry hunters."
Qrow raised an eyebrow but didn't respond, sipping his coffee instead. There was a subtle sense of approval in his demeanor—though typical of him, he wouldn't say it outright.
With everything ready, Blake and Shirou brought the food over to the table, setting down plates of pancakes, eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit. The meal was simple but hearty, and the group dug in eagerly, the atmosphere warm and inviting.
"This is amazing!" Ruby exclaimed between bites, her eyes wide with delight. "Thanks, you two!"
Blake smiled modestly as she sat down next to Shirou. "It's nothing. We just thought it'd be nice to do something for everyone before we get back to work."
As they ate, the conversation naturally shifted toward their next move. Ruby, who had been thinking deeply about their mission to Atlas, set her fork down and looked around at her friends, her expression turning serious.
"So," Ruby began, "we've had some time to rest and regroup, but I think we're ready to talk about our plan for getting to Atlas."
The rest of the group quieted down, focusing on her. Even Adrian seemed to sense the shift in tone as he settled quietly in Saphron's lap. Qrow, too, leaned in slightly, his focus sharpening as he listened to his niece.
Ruby continued, "I've been thinking about what we learned in Argus, and I think the best way forward is to approach Atlas through official channels. With the military increasing security, sneaking in would be too risky."
Weiss nodded thoughtfully. "That makes sense. I've been considering the same. If we want to get into Atlas without causing a scene, we'll need someone with authority to vouch for us."
Yang leaned back in her chair, arms crossed. "Sounds like we're going to need help from someone in Atlas. Any ideas?"
Weiss pursed her lips. "Actually... There is someone. My sister, Winter."
Qrow's expression remained neutral, but the mention of Winter caught his attention. He didn't speak up yet, but his eyes flicked to Weiss, watching closely.
Ruby tilted her head slightly. "Do you think she'd help us? I mean, after everything that's happened?"
Weiss took a deep breath. "I believe she will. Winter has always been loyal to Atlas, but she cares about me, and she knows how important this mission is. If we approach her the right way, I'm confident she'll help us. She might be able to get us safe passage into the city."
Oscar, who had been quiet up until now, spoke up. "And if she doesn't?"
Weiss frowned slightly. "Then we'll need to think of an alternative. But I'm willing to bet she'll listen to reason, especially if we explain the situation with Salem."
Shirou, who had been listening closely, nodded in agreement. "It's a solid plan. Going through official channels will give us legitimacy, and having someone like Winter on our side could make all the difference."
Jaune scratched the back of his head. "It sounds like we're putting a lot on Winter, though. What if she's not in Argus or can't meet with us in time?"
Qrow finally chimed in, his voice gruff but steady. "Winter's no fool. She'll understand the stakes if we lay it out for her. But if things go south, we'll need a backup plan." He glanced at Ruby and Weiss. "Don't rely on one person to save us."
Ruby smiled slightly at her uncle. "That's why we'll have a backup plan. If Winter can't help, we'll regroup and figure out another way. But for now, let's hope we can get in touch with her."
As they continued discussing the details, the team refined their approach to Atlas. Everyone offered their input, making small adjustments to ensure the plan was as solid as possible. The camaraderie they'd built over the week was evident—there was an easy trust among them now, forged through shared experiences.
Just as the conversation was wrapping up, a knock echoed through the house, interrupting their breakfast. Everyone froze, and Terra, closest to the door, stood up. "I'll get it," she said, heading toward the door.
There was a brief silence as Terra opened the door, and then her voice carried back to the group. "Oh! Weiss, it's for you."
Weiss stood up, curiosity and surprise on her face as she walked toward the entryway. The others followed her with their eyes, waiting for some kind of explanation. When Weiss reached the door, her eyes widened.
Standing there, clad in her Atlas Specialist uniform, was Winter Schnee, flanked by a small contingent of soldiers. Her expression was cool and composed, but there was a familiarity in her eyes as they landed on her sister.
"Winter?" Weiss's voice was soft, disbelief coloring her tone.
Winter gave a small nod, her demeanor professional yet not without warmth. "Hello, Weiss. I came as soon as I could. We need to talk."