A/N People all around
Alt title: Time to see the world
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SameJake: I had a… Christmas and New Year.
But thank you!
GideonBlackthorn: Ruby is just a dork. End of sentence. She is the type of person that would 100% make a minecraft village and name all of the villagers.
Spy vs. Spy? I don't get it.
Remnant of War: Blake and Sun is, a possibility. But it'd be on Sun to make the call and settle. He's Tarakian and they don't typically settle down. Sure they have bands of blood related individuals that might prefer to stick together, but overall they lack a concept of marriage as we think of it. A Tarakian man may have five children with three different women. He knows all of his kids and travels with them and their mothers. Maintaining a close familial bond with them. But Tarakian community ties are such that a two bands can pass each other, and members will switch out and head off. Some bands pass each other more than others, but overall it's just how they are. It's a very foreign way of thinking, but it's how they survived the Grimm and the Desert.
As for Blake's reality check? Oh yeah, it was needed. Her grades were slipping as was her relationship with her team. It's one of the reasons Team SLBR has some of the strongest combatants, but the weakest teamwork.
eman3232: Um, I'm sorry but that was hard to follow. I, think you want Sheogorath to show up?
FinalKingdomHearts: Next chapter!
Emp781: Maybe, maybe not. Maybe Ruby will get the Bellabooty next to her Rubooty. Maybe Blake will turn into the spinster of the group.
Only time will tell.
The Unbidden: Yeah but, they don't know it's called the Imperial Cult.
Hwang Manuel: Yeah, FFN gets fucky every now and then.
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Once again the DancingLeaf seems to be lost on the winds of life.
I long for the day the leaf will blow back into my forest and regal me with tales of its journeys.
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Anyway!
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-Date, Time-
'Thoughts'
"Speech"
(Text)
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-SLBR Dorm, 11/13, 7:20am-
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Weiss Schnee POV
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"Is the test in Port's today or tomorrow?" Ruby asks as she brushes my tail.
"Today." Me and Blake say at the same time, causing us to pause and look over to each other.
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Looking back to our respective positions. Her at her scroll, me at the case in my lap.
"You made sure to study, right?" I ask as I go back to organizing my dust case.
"Uh, yeah!" Ruby says in the most obviously lying voice ever.
"Ruby." I stress as I look to the girl next to me on the bed.
"In, class?" She says with a sheepish smile as she shrinks in on herself.
I take the brush away from her and move my tail away. taking her brushing privileges away.
"Huh, no!" She whines as she leans over and goes for the brush. "I'll be fine! I promise!"
"Ruby, I've seen your grades." I glare as I hold it away. "You need to get them up before we fall behind!"
We're top of the year, but that's only due to Team Prussian's testing scores, primarily Ren and Nora with their lack of any formal education. And Team Cardinal's combat streak. Though Russel is steadily bringing their scores up, and Dove and Sky are becoming a decent pair in combat. Meaning it's only a matter of time.
"Hey! I'm in the upper six of the class in most subjects!" She defends as she tries to crawl over me.
"Ruby watch it!" I say as I catch the case of dust from falling out of my lap. "And your grades are on par with Russel, Ren and Nora in some subjects." I say as I put a hand to her chest and push her back. "Even Cyril is doing better than you in some of our classes."
Which is surprising for Grimm Studies considering he doesn't have a Hunter's education. Though, I suppose thinking as fast as him would help with studying.
"And that goes for you as well Blake." I turn to my partner, holding the brush out to address her. "Your history grade is slipping and I will not have my partner be the weak link in terms of grades."
"I'm keeping it up!" She defends as she ties her shoes. Having moved away from her scroll to finish getting dressed. "I just don't do dates well."
'Don't say it.' I tell myself as I feel Cyril's influence infecting my mind. Wanting to comment on her relations with former dates she's had. Namely recalling the time she came back from the dance reeking of sex and alcohol.
And speaking of poor influences. Cyril walks into the room with the mail tote in arm.
"Sup?" He nods to us as he starts going through the tote and handing us our mail.
"Cyril, perfect timing." I say with a smile, much to Ruby's chagrin.
"I didn't do it." He says automatically as he hands a stack of magazines to Ruby.
"Ooh!" She beams as she greedily grabs the stack. "Show me that weapons catalogue! Gimme those sweet specs baby."
I hold in a breath of air that wants to come up and choke me in response to her antics. Instead, I focus on the words of the second youngest member of our team.
"As, concerning as that response is." I say as he sets my mail, and likely some of his own, on my dresser. "This is about your partner."
"Weiss!" Said maturity deficient girl whines, slapping the magazine on her thighs. "It's fine."
"Your last score in Professor Peach's class was an eighty seven. It is certainly not fine." I remind her before turning back to her partner. "She's not been taking her studies seriously, as her team it is our responsibility to correct it. And that goes doubly so for you as her partner."
"Is it on a down curve?" He asks as he takes out the chair at the wall desk and starts reading through a few letters of his own.
"A what?" I ask for clarification.
"Are her grades steadily going down?" He asks with his back turned.
"No, but they are still subpar and leave much to be desired." I tell him as Ruby shrinks in on herself.
It may be harsh, but it's a necessary criticism. If she doesn't work to improve then how will she?
"They're on the up though!" Ruby defends beside me. "It's not a big deal, really."
"If they are going up, then why make a big deal about it?" Cyril asks as he turns to look at me with a raised brow. "She's not failing, not getting worse and is doing better than most."
Why would I expect anything less?
"I'm on a team full of complacent sheep." I say as I get up and go to read my mail, giving up on the conversation. "I can't believe this. No drive or ambition."
I sigh as I focus mind on my mail. Going through various letters that are addressed to me and sorting them by order of importance.
"No one ever said that." Cyril says as he goes back to his papers. "There will always be room to improve, but you have to realize that sometimes being enough is alright."
My heart thuds as he says that. And I have to take a moment before I go back to reading, my willingness to continue the debate gone as I focus on the letters.
I'm focused on the third arranged marriage proposal for Cyril when he manages to sneak up behind me. Trapping me in a warm embrace that he refuses to let up on.
"That, and you just need to know how to motivate someone." He whispers in a soft voice as he rests his head on mine. Sending a shiver down my spine and cutting me off from reprimanding him for sneaking up on me.
'I-Is he talking about me?' I feel my face and body burn at what he could consider motivation. 'H-how is he going to motivate me to relax? He can't possibly be so deviant as to, I mean Blake is still here and we have class in less than an hour!'
"Hey Ruby." Cyril says as he looks to the sulking wolf. Earning her attention as her ears perk up. "If you can get all your classes up past ninety percent, I'll sit through and watch all of Huntress Jasmine with you."
"Really!?" She jumps up with a bright smile.
"Really." He nods as he lets me go and goes to the eager girl.
I take a breath and tune them out as I calm myself from Cyril's obvious provocations. One does not simply approach another from behind and whisper softly in their ear while embracing them. Not without certain intentions.
'Focus on the letters Weiss.' I tell myself as I pick them back up. Going through two more marriage proposals, one of which being for me. Invites to various events of no import other than to show off.
Then I get to the letter at the bottom of the stack belonging to Cyril that he delegates to me. Mostly letters of pandering and business documents. It's not as though he's just shoving it off on me, I started taking them over when he didn't know the difference between an adjoining business and a partnership.
They aren't even in the same realm of definition! If it wasn't for me then he'd probably have sold his intellectual property to some Vacuoan prince being held hostage in Mistral.
'For as good as he is with people, he might as well be illiterate in terms of business.' I think as I read over the letter, and my eyes widen in surprise.
"Cyril!" I turn around to my two paramours currently goofing off. With Ruby currently held on his shoulder, looking at me upside down as they pause whatever roughhousing they were engaged in. Causing Ruby's skirt to fall, revealing her leggings covering shapely legs and thighs.
"Ah!" She moves her hands to keep herself decent and preventing any wayward stares.
…
Ignoring that.
"Cyril, did you already open this?" I hold up the offending black envelope.
"Yeah." He shrugs, bouncing Ruby on his shoulder by doing so.
"And you didn't mention it to me?" I ask, almost hurt at the disregard. Though I'm mostly offended at the lack of concern. "Drachen Brand is the archon of the Brand family, their family is older than mine and I'm just now realizing that means nothing to you." I let my shoulders relax as he just stares.
I keep forgetting he was raised in a cult.
"If it makes any difference." He says as he turns Ruby around and lets her down. "I only opened it because the envelope was cool."
He gives me a placating smile as Ruby awkwardly shuffles off. And I can only sigh as I have no rebuttal. Seeing as that is something he would do.
"Why am I attracted to you idiots?" I sigh and prepare to explain the importance of the Brand family.
Before the female idiot reaches out and starts rubbing my head.
"Stop it." I bat her hand away, but she just hugs me and kisses my cheek. My chest and face burning as she's close enough for me to smell her shampoo. "What has gotten into you? I am genuinely curious."
"You said you're attracted to me~" She smiles and rubs her face to mine.
"You realize she also called you an idiot, right?" Blake calls out, and Ruby pauses.
I look to the adorable idiot as she seems to comprehend what was said.
"Hey!" She lets go of me and crosses her arms. "Am not!"
I sigh and let my face fall into my hand as I hate myself for loving how she reacted. Something in me just, aaahhh! At the way she does that!
Why am I like this?
"Cyril?" I say as I look up, not willing to deal with Ruby lest I lose track and forget the current issue. "We're getting you fitted for a suit and we're going to the Sun's Rise Soiree. A personal invitation from the Brand family is not one you refuse without very good reason. Besides, only the best and brightest get invited to the Sun's Rise Soiree so it'll be a good chance to build connections with important people."
"Is it really that big a deal?" He asks as he crosses his arms, raising a brow in question.
"Cyril, the number of people invited to the Brand's Sun's Rise Soiree doesn't even reach the triple digits." I tell the man illiterate in all things etiquette. "It is a privileged event meant only for the best and brightest, those who have made massive achievements and advances for society. Which, begs the question of why you got an invite."
"Rude." Ruby mutters, and I ignore her.
It's obvious why. Cyril's dustless energy technology is as revolutionary as the invention of dust energy technology. But, no one is supposed to know of it.
'Hmm, there's the General, my father, the head researchers, our team. But that's it.' I think worryingly. 'It's possible there were leaks in the military or the SDC. Otherwise I doubt Drachen would pay any attention to Cyril outside of the fact he's a clanless Silver Eyed Warrior.'
It's not like Ruby or Blake blabbing about Cyril's tech would garner any serious attention. They lack the connections to take their word seriously.
I'm going to have to speak to father later. Get this sorted out and find out if there's any possible corporate spies. Because if not, the alternative is military spies.
"Licorice!" Ruby suddenly shouts, drawing all of our attention.
"What?" Blake is the one who asks.
"Team Licorice!" Ruby says excitedly. "I finally got a name!"
"For what?" Cyril asks, equally confused as the rest of us.
"Remember the mini tournament thingy my dad held?" Ruby begins. "When we were talking about who could take a hit from Nora and survive and you guys said it was Cyril Pyrrha Jaune and Cardin? Well I mentioned that was enough for a full team and since it'd be a cool and weird team composition of nothing but front line fighters and so I thought it'd be cool if this team had a name in case anything happened and we needed a team of front liners so I've been thinking and I got it! L, C, R, J! Licorice!" She finally takes a breath as she throws her fists up in triumph.
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"Where's the R?" Cyril asks.
"In Pyrrha." Ruby says, letting her arms fall down as she beams cheerfully.
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"Where?" Blake asks.
"In her first initia-AHHH!" She whines as she grabs her head, her ears splaying back in distress. "I mixed up R and P in my head because they look alike! Now I have to start over!"
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Sometimes I want to smother her for how she makes me feel.
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-Beacon, Grimm Studies, 9:45 am-
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Cyril Leon POV
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"And that's time!" Port calls as he hits his alarm. "Pass your papers to the end of the line and turn them in, after that you may rest for the remainder of the class or head out and mingle! I know many of you are eager to discuss and engage with your fellows from the other schools and I encourage it! Why this sort of opportunity only comes once every two years after all! I remember my time in your shoes. Of course there were less of you seeing as Shelter Academy wasn't built yet. How fortunate I am to see tomorrow's future expanded and-"
And that's my limit. Nothing against the guy, he just can't keep the attention of anyone.
"Ruby, the papers." Weiss hisses as she holds her hand out.
"Huh, oh, sure." Ruby says and hands said papers to Weiss, who takes them and heads down to the lecture space.
Except Ruby, weirdly enough.
I stare at the girl as she stays enraptured by Port droning on and on. Eventually I rest my head on my fist, leaning on the long desk as I just wait for her to snap out of whatever trance she's in.
"Okay, what is-" I hold a finger up to pause Weiss as she gets back.
"I think we're waiting to see how long this lasts." Blake says from the other seat beside me.
"Oh." Weiss says and takes a seat. Now joining us in Ruby watching.
Even Weiss finds it hard to pay attention to Port. Who is right now going on about a story involving him, his second year and his first attempt at shaving using his axe.
"And that's why I have such a glorious mustache!" He finishes as the bell rings. "Ah! Perfect timing! I'm getting better as always!"
It is now, that Ruby looks away from the lecturer and starts to get up. Only to notice us staring at her.
"Um, is, is something wrong?" She asks shyly as she stops and slowly goes back down.
"Nope." I say and get up. "Now lets go, I've got geography and you've got history."
"Actually we have the period to ourselves." Weiss says as she gets up as well. "Professor, ehem, Doctor Oobleck has called the class off due to being needed in preparing the faire grounds for the festival. Culling Grimm from the area and allowing the help to set up and all."
"Lucky." I say as I turn to the doors and head out.
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-Beacon Courtyard, 10:10am-
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Ruby Rose POV
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"This is nice~" I hum, leaning against Weiss as she takes her turn against Nikel Rein. The gray haired boy on Penny's team.
"Hush." Weiss shush's me as she places her piece.
"Hrmm." I grumble and hold her arm tighter.
'Aha!' I think victoriously. 'A blush! She can't resist me and my charms, she's just putting on a mask to look cool.'
"Checkmate." Weiss says as she takes her next turn, and Nikel snaps his fingers in frustration.
"Best two out of three?" He asks.
He's not going to win. Weiss beats Cyril. If it's a game of strategy, Cyril is scarily good. If it's a game of luck, then it's a coin toss, Cyril either sweeps, or loses miserably.
"As fun as that is, I believe if I don't tend to the annoyance clinging to my arm then she'll grow increasingly demanding." Weiss says, denying the boy in favor of spending time with me.
"Ah!" I hug her tightly, rubbing my face into her arm. "I knew you cared!"
"Begrudgingly." Weiss says in that 'you're right but I don't want to say that' tone. "My apologies Mr. Rein, but I must decline."
"It's all good." He holds his hands up as he stands from the stone bench. "And you don't have to be so formal with me, Ms. Schnee. Nikel is fine."
'Is he flirting?' I ask myself as I stare at him and try to get a read. 'Or is he just being nice? Ahh! Why can't boys ever be easy to read!?'
"I think I'd rather stick to formalities if that is alright with you." Weiss says.
"Eh, doesn't bother me none." He gives an easy nod and shrug before turning around and heading off towards the garden where Penny is talking to, I think that's Dorian. The tall, darker skinned snake Faunus from Shelter academy. "Enjoy your date!" He gives a backwards wave.
Wait. Is this a date? I didn't prepare anything!
'Calm down.' I tell myself. 'He was just saying it, this isn't a real date. Just two girls who just happen to sleep with each other spending time together! It's no different than me and Yang hanging out!'
Minus the sleeping together part. Also Yang isn't nearly as cute as Weiss.
"Does this count as a date?" I ask Weiss. "I mean, I didn't plan anything so I don't know what we're suppose to do. Unless you planned anything, which I don't think you did. Not that it's a bad thing I just, well when you plan things it kinda, no wait that's not what I'm trying to say, well, hang on-"
'Words are hard!' I cry to myself.
"Ruby." Weiss says sternly, cutting off my rant. Still facing forward.
"Um, yes?" I ask, slightly scared that I might've upset her.
Weiss turns to face me, and puts a hand to my face as she kisses me. Her eyes closed as mine go wide in surprise.
'Why can't girls make sense!?' I whine as I start to return the kiss, only for Weiss to pull away.
"Now, tell me what you were going to say." She tells me.
"It's easier to act like I know what I'm doing if I can prepare." I admit to her.
"There, now that that's out if the way. No, this is not a date." Weiss says as she tilts her head up and closes her eyes. "I'm merely indulging your need for attention."
"Oh, um, thank you?" I say, hoping I said the right thing.
I wait for her to do something else. Not wanting to do the wrong thing, not when she might still be upset over the thing that will not be mentioned ever again! And I just hope she, I don't know! I want her to not be mad at me.
I tense up as Weiss lets out a sigh.
"You're lucky you're cute." Weiss says with a furrowed brow as I feel her tail wrap around my waist.
"I love you too Weiss!" I throw my arms around her, knocking us over and off the bench onto the ground behind us
"Ah!" She lets out a shout of surprise as we land. "Get ahold of yourself you dolt!" She puts her hands on my shoulders and gives a halfhearted attempt at pushing me away. "At least wait until we're somewhere private if you want to be this much of a nuisance."
I'm not being a nuisance! And private spaces are for private moments. I don't know what Weiss thinks I'm doing but it'd not that!
"Weiss!" I say as I let go, a blush spreading on my face. "I'm just hugging you, not, not special hugging." I whisper as we sit up.
"Special hug, ugh." She scoffs as she stands up and dusts herself off. "You're an idiot."
She crosses her arms and looks away from me. But I can see her blush~ And her tail slowly swaying.
I stick my tongue out at her. Knowing she likes me~
She steals a glance at me, and turns her head away as her face heats up. Mumbling something I can't hear, I scoot over to get closer to her and-
"Am I interrupting anything?"
"Ah!" I fall back over as Blake spooks me.
Turning my head to the side, I look over to the girl sitting on the ledge of a concrete planter. Leaning forward and resting her head in her hands with a Blake look. That's what I call it. It's a mix of sneaky interest and boredom.
"When did you get here?" I ask.
"I've been here the whole time." She says. "You just weren't paying attention."
Oh.
"I was too!" I say as I get up to my feet.
"Ruby." Blake sighs as her arms go slack and rest in her lap. Her face giving me a flat look. "My secondary lets me sense other people's attention and awareness."
Oh, right.
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-Vale City, 11/15, Hidden warehouse-
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Roman Torchwick POV
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I really stuck my nose where it don't belong.
"So, you failed to apprehend the boy. Failed to acquire any information on him. But, verified his use of magic?" A deep and pompous voice asks from the monitor. His image being a blacked out silhouette. "That is, disappointing Roman."
'Not like it's my fault.' I think bitterly.
All I can tell is that he has long hair, broad shoulders and is wearing a crown.
"Not the best first impression I'll admit." I say as I ash my cigar. "But hey, what's the saying about a sniper's first mission?"
"Sniper? You do seem to prefer the back lines." He says, contemplating something. "Well, I suppose it matters little. Does the Queen suspect anything? You are in her domain after all."
The Queen of the Underworld. If it's illegal, she has a hand in it, or at least that's what she'd have everyone believe. This little group just proves it.
"Far as I'm aware?" I say with a shrug. "Not a thing. Junior's still bartending me, and he wouldn't risk losing his liquor license if you know what I mean."
"I'll have to take your word for it." He says as he leans back in the frame. "The king is another story, he moves more freely. And if he knows, she knows. But if nothing's happened. Then I suppose they're in the dark. Now, are you ready to start the meeting?"
'This guy loves the sound of his own voice.' I keep to myself.
"Got no where else to be, big man." I lean back and hold my arms out, crossing a foot over my knee.
"Very well. Then let us begin." The man says as the screen splits into seven more silhouettes. "Right, let the four hundred and twelfth meeting of the Maiden's Voyage commence. Is everyone's connection secure?"
"I have no issue." A pomp and prideful woman's voice sounds out.
"None here." The voice and silhouette I recognize as Raven says.
"A-A bit o-of sssssssstatic." A higher pitched man's voice says as he moves around. "Ah! There we are, just had to tap the frequency just right. Not easy, seeing as I'm, you know where I am."
More cryptic cloak and dagger bullshit.
"I'm experiencing no issues." The voice of the Witch says in a calm sultry tone.
One of the silhouettes just gives a thumbs up.
"Bully for you Sword." A cheerful voice says, belonging to a spindly figure and a tall hat. "To the man in charge, the servant finds no problems."
That's right, each of us have codes. If we meet, we can give our identities freely, but anonymity is the main gimmick of this little group.
"Right then, unfortunately we couldn't all be here today." The man says, formally known as Blue to the rest of us. The one with a crown and the leader of this group. "But we'll just have to do without rather than risk their security. For now, I'd like to introduce the newest crewmate. Everyone, give your warmest greetings to Sniper."
I stand up and give a flourishing bow. My arms out as I play along with this circus I've stumbled into.
'You've really fucked yourself now, Roman.' I think to myself as I come up from my bow.
"And just what does this, Sniper, provide to our goal?" The man with the shaky connection asks.
"I can answer that one." The Witch answers, her voice dripping with self confidence. "Sniper here, has a good foot in Vale's undercity."
"So he's to be Whistle's replacement?" Another speaks up for the first time, his voice being stern but younger sounding. His silhouette being slim at the neck. But I can't tell if he has wings, or he's wearing a feathered mantle over broad shoulders. "Here's hoping you last. Whistle barely lasted a year before the queen discovered him."
Now I really regret this. Because I have no clue who they're talking about. I know it has to be someone in the Valean underworld. But I haven't heard of anyone being taken off the census in recent times. And I can't ask about it, if it gets back to her I'm as good as dead.
"Have some faith our dear Horse." The Witch says as she leans on her hand. "I trust our dear Sniper will have little issue scouting ahead for any dangers that may come his way."
"Ooh! Nice word play!" The hatted individual says as they mimic The Witch's movements.
"Yes yes." Blue says as he raises a hand to calm everyone. "I'm glad you're all getting along well. But onto recent business, the boy. Any info?"
The clanless kid with silver eyes and magic. And no traceable background.
"I confirmed his use of magic myself alongside Sniper and his, Bullet." Raven says, pausing before her mention of my surrogate daughter and respecting the code of anonymity. "He was even replicating the semblances of his teammates using the magic. From phasing into blue rose petals, to forming a glyph similar to a Schnee under himself to act as a platform."
I notice the lady with a pompous and strict voice stand a little straighter at the information given. A detail not lost on everyone.
"Pen, is there something the matter?" Blue asks.
"Schnee glyphs she said. That is oddly specific." She says with an odd tone that tells me they're trying to hide interest. "While the petals can be written off, there are only two people alive who can use glyphs. And none of the relics grant magics or abilities that would present as a Schnee glyph. Are you certain Spear?"
"Without a doubt." Raven says with a little bit of bite at being challenged. "I fought him and saw it with my own two eyes. It was a darker blue, and of slightly different design. But it was a glyph all the same, I know their look from the time I fought Ironwood's specialist."
"The Spear has shown time and time again to be reliable in her tasks." Blue says calmly, putting a hand up. "I trust her word is made in sound judgement… that being said, I'm sure our Sniper has more to report on the matter?"
I have to stop my eyes from widening as he calls me out.
'What's the play here?' I think to myself as I weigh my options. 'Either he knows, and lying will fuck me here. Or he's making a play. Shit, was hoping I could hold out a bit.'
It's simple survival. Hold back in any endeavor where you're beholden to another. Never give your best unless you absolutely can't afford to lose. That way you have cards to play later.
"Yeah, I got a bit to say." I take a drag of my cigar. "Well, most of it is already known or really specific."
'Like his scroll number, thanks Neo.' I think with a bit of amusement.
"But, the big one is that the Queen herself is looking into him." I give away, cursing my luck.
"Hmm, that is indeed important to know." The staticky man says. "It tells us the King knows as well. Hell, he might've been the one to tell the Queen."
"If that's the case, then the boy may be even more important." Blue says more seriously. "But just how important? That is what requires investigating."
"If he's a true magic wielder, I'd very much like to meet him." The Witch says with a tone dripping in schemes and self righteousness. "Mayhaps even, well. I'll keep that to myself."
'That poor kid.' I think to myself as I ash my cigar.
"Am I needed here?" The Horse asks. "Because truthfully, this seems to have little to do with me. And I have things I need to get done."
"Watch your tone Horse." The Pen snides. "You were invited to the meeting as you are every meeting to inform you and keep you up to date of our objectives and their progress."
'Horse and Pen have bad blood?' I note down in my head, could be useful information for later.
"Yeah yeah." The Horse answers as he crosses his arms. "If I see the kid in Vacuo I'll let you know."
Despite us all being on screens, I swear I can see Pen and Horse glaring at each other.
"If you feel you must." Blue says, cutting through the tension and silence. "Just remember, you're here because you're a member of this court. Keep your loyalties in mind my steed."
"Noted." The Horse says curtly and cuts his feed.
"Onto our next order of business." Blue says. "Spear, Witch, I have a task I need you to do. Sniper, you'll be involved as well. But in a less direct way."
"Eh, just tell me what you need boss man." I say as I take the cigar out of my mouth and further sign my fate. "And I'll see what I can do."
I put the cigar out, and kick my feet up on the desk. I stare at the ceiling as I listen to the plan, realizing I really fucked myself over. Taking that Witch's offer of support.
I could've gotten where I am without her support, I just had to take the easy way.
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-Meanwhile, Vacuo, Ghosted Plains/Hazy Wastes-
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Desert Gull POV
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"Waste of my damn time." I sigh as I power off the computer, shutting off the generator and conserving its energy.
"Hey, Dez." One of the older band leaders says as he enters the tent and adjusts his black and white keffiyeh. "Heard the gen shut down, what's the word?"
I sigh as I lean against the fold out table. Crossing my arms as I sigh and look to the side. Eyeing a few cases of supplies.
"Is that bad?" The older man asks.
"It is no worry uncle." I hold a hand up to assuage his concerns. "Merely time wasted."
"Uncle?" The older man scoffs, his lion tail making a whip like motion behind him in mock offense. "I'm still young enough to be your cousin."
"Pah!" I let out a laugh at his claim. "Remove the scarf old man, let the hairline speak for itself."
"I am offended nephew." He says, putting a hand to his chest. "Honestly, your mother should have taught you better. A man's hair is a target not to be shot at."
"On the contrary, she always told me bald heads make easier targets for an arrow." I smirk as the older man rolls his eyes.
"This generation." He shakes his head, not meaning his words.
We stand in a bit of silence as my tension from earlier fades. And I look out past the man, to the tent opening that was left slightly ajar. To the soft sands of the Ghosted Plains.
Our home, where the oasis's still form. The Vacuoan's call it the Hazy Wastes because they fail to see past its storms. Too short sighted to see the beauty of Sha-ak's hand. They only see the grime of his fingers.
"The sands are soft today, nephew." Harold says as he looks to the entrance he left open. "Rest, we know you work hard for us. Even if we don't see you work, we see your results. None here would find issue with you taking a little time to yourself."
"I would." I say with stern eyes. "The only reason we are so safe from the bounty hunters, ragtag militia, Grimm hordes and bandit tribes is because of my constant vigilance and planning."
"You'll destroy yourself like this Dez." The man steps forward and pleads. "I beg of you, a day is all I ask. All we ask."
"A day is all it takes to kill a family." I tell him, using an old saying.
"Eyes kept to the floor will never see the stars." He shoots back.
"That's enough Harold." I say and turn my back to him as I start to collapse the foldable table. "Now go, I have work to do. Take Ambrosia, Silk, Dia and Mince. Head to the east, there's a caravan passing through, should have food for us to trade."
He's silent for a bit as I set the table aside. Seeing as he's still here, I give him a stern glare. One he returns with a sad look.
"Go." I tell him, and he nods, turning around and using his tail to slap the hook keeping the entrance slightly open.
I wait a few paces before I slowly turn to the smaller of the supply cases. Marked as different only by the blue crown on its latch.
Opening it, I'm greeted to my greatest asset. The key to my people's survival and prosperity. An old mirror, silver swirled frame, oval in shape. About the size of a man's head.
A normal, if slightly fancy mirror. But that's where it's deceit lays.
"Show me, the Rolling Dunes." I say softly, and grin as I see the landscape as though I were there.
And I see a band of humans, accompanied by two Hunters. Likely an escort, they look to be heading south. That's good, they're following Fol's trail. Means we won't have to move the camp for a few more days.
The Mirror of Omnipotence. One of the five relics of knowledge, and the reason I play knight's court with that insufferable man. Going along with his group's plans, their ideals, is the best hope for my people.
The sands have always belonged to us. And they always will.
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-Beacon, SLBR Dorm bathroom, 11/20, 6:30am-
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Weiss Schnee POV
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"Ruby!" I moan as I cum and Ruby bites my collar from behind me. The running water hiding the noise of our activities.
"You're so cute Weiss." Ruby says as she kisses my cheek while I catch my breath. Grinding her hips against my tail and butt as she removes her hand from my crotch to my hips and holds me firm. Her soft chest pressed to my back.
I lean back against her as I let the water cascade down on me and wash away the evidence. Before I turn around and surprise the girl with a kiss. One she returns soon enough before we part for air.
"I, think I'm supposed to say something?" She says with a shy smile. "But, um, you're awesome?"
I stare unimpressed at the blushing girl. Before deciding to not let it ruin the moment as I grab her butt and pull her close.
"Ahaaaa!" She gasps in surprise before I get to my knees. "Oh gosh you're, Weiss we already spent like, twenty minutes in here. I, think this is enough."
No way it's been twenty minutes. She's just exaggerating. Besides, she started this by intentionally riling me up. She better damn well finish this.
"We have time." I say as I lean in and stick my tongue out to explore her sensitive areas, her legs shaking as she doesn't give any further complaints.
"O-oh frick!" She moans as she bites her finger and puts her hand on my head.
That's what I thought.
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-Beacon Library, 11/20, 11:30am-
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Weiss Schnee POV
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I close the books on the table as I sigh. Tired and mentally wiped from the study session. Clearing my throat as I look to my teammates.
Blake had gotten an eighty nine on our last test, and Ruby got a ninety two.
"My brain hurts." Ruby whines as she lays her head on the table.
"I don't get why we need to know the migration patterns of beowolves. Don't Grimm just, go where people are expressing negative emotions?" Blake asks as she rubs her face.
"The fact you're questioning that is precisely why we're holding these study sessions." I tell her.
"Hrrmm. Are we done yet?" Ruby whines.
Cyril got a ninety eight, so he's exempt from this. Rather he's touching up on his history with Velvet because his last history test came back a seventy two.
Better than I expected from him, having no knowledge on the subject prior. But still unacceptable!
I turn to the side as I see said brown haired Faunus approaching us. Or rather past us as she carries a few books back to where they go.
"Hey Velvet." Ruby raises a hand in greeting, her head still on the table.
"Oh! Hello Ruby." Velvet says in her eastern Menagerian accent.
It's rather pleasant to listen to, I won't deny. Just an idle thought.
"Hello Blake, Weiss." She nods to each of us with a strained smile.
"Hello Velvet." I nod back to the girl.
"Hey, you alright?" Blake asks with a raised brow as she leans back and crosses her arms.
"Oh, I'm, fine." She says with a bit of annoyance and a small twitch in her eye.
"You certainly don't seem it." I comment. "I didn't want to say anything but, I feel like repeating Blake. Are you alright?"
She goes to say something before freezing. Stuck in place as she looks ready to say something, before dropping the books in her arms on the table. Sighing as she pulls out a chair and takes a seat, resting her head in her hands.
"Huuuaaaah!" She whines. "I just don't know what to do."
"What about?" Ruby asks as she sits up properly. "If you need help you can ask, unless it's something super super private. Then I think-"
"It's Cyril." Velvet whines through her hands.
"Did something happen?" I ask, a score of possibilities going through my head. "He didn't do anything inappropriate did he?"
"You aren't doing anything inappropriate are you?" Ruby asks, her eyes gaining a slight shine.
"If he said something dumb, just ignore him." Blake says nonchalantly. Causing me and Ruby to eye her curiously. "What?"
"Something like that." Velvet says as she moves her hands from her face to the sides of her head. "Not like what you all seem to think of him though. It's, it's just that I thought tutoring would be a nice way to fill my extracurricular. Not fill my days. Cyril is so utterly lacking in any baseline of history, that we're going ground up."
"Well, he lacks a formal education so that makes sense." I say, not wanting to downplay her plight.
"If only it were just that, he can recall events just fine. It's the dates he keeps messing up on, heck! He keeps forgetting what year it is!" Velvet lets her head fall to the desk, letting out a tired and muffled ow. "I just hoped this wouldn't take as much time as it is."
I knew he had issues in certain fields of study, but with how easily he picked up his other classes I figured he was doing well in history.
'Looks like Ruby and Blake aren't the only ones who need to study.' I think to myself. 'Well, more study.'
"Ugh, I need to take my mind off it." Velvet says and opens her eyes, looking to me as she rest her chin in one hand. "What about you guys? You picked your mission for the quarterly today right, what are you off to?"
"We, don't know." I admit uneasily. "We have yet to be informed of our task."
"What do you mean?" Velvet asks, setting her hand down as her ears tilt with her head in question. "The first years picked their missions, or am I thinking of a different year?"
"No, we um." Ruby starts to say as she looks away awkwardly, a blush on her face as she no doubt recalls what she did. "Got assigned to our task early, so uh, we didn't get to check the mission boards."
"What, why?" Velvet asks.
"That's a priva-" I start to explain.
"Ruby attacked Team Indigo after they were eavesdropping on Cyril and Weiss breaking furniture." Blake cuts me off, earning a glare from me, one she notices. And gives a mischievous smile in return.
"Oh right, heard about that." Velvet says calmly.
"You did?" Ruby asks quietly.
"Pfft, who didn't." Velvet scoffs with a roll of her eyes. "You chased the poor girls through five buildings on campus. Didn't know it was 'cause of them listening in though. Good on ya though." Velvet gives me a smile.
"I-I've no idea what you're talking about." I attempt to preserve what little dignity I have in this situation.
"Don't be shy!" Velvet chuckles. "Nothing wrong with it. Just a boy and girl spending time and loving each other. Unless you regret what happened, then I'm-"
"I most certainly do not!" I turn my head and snap at the girl. Making an awkward silence as she leans back in her chair.
Before her grin grows to irritating proportions as she leans back in.
"Oh? And what don't you regret? Come on I want details." She asks with a bright smile.
"And just how is it any of your business?" I ask, my face burning at the scandal unfolding.
"Seeing as Cyril goes to me for advice with you and Ruby." She shrugs. "I'm a bit invested."
"I knew it!" Ruby stands up and shouts. "This makes sense, I knew he was too good in bed! He's been getting advice from more experienced women!"
I go to correct her, before thinking back on our times together.
'That, actually does make sense.' I think before my eyes go wide at the implications.
"Wait, just what has Cyril been telling you about us?" I demand of the rabbit Faunus.
"Wah?" She looks between the two of us. "No no no no! Not like that I swear!" She shakes her head and scoots her chair back, holding up her hands in defense as she looks from me to Ruby. "Look, he just didn't know what dating more than one person entailed, or dating Faunus, or dating. So I gave him advice is all!"
I stare at the fearful upperclassman. Trying to sense any lies and coming up with nothing, I ease up on my glare as Ruby sits back down.
"Oh, so, um, well." Ruby mumbles sheepishly as she stares down at the table. "I'm sorry."
"It's… It's alright." Velvet says as scoots back in. "Just, I should've phrased that better. Sorry 'bout that."
"No, you're fine." I sigh as I get my head out of the gutter. "We jumped to conclusions without letting you explain."
"Speak for yourself." Blake mumbles.
I look to my partner, who only gives me a devious smirk in return before redirecting her attention to Velvet.
"Sorry about them Velvet." Blake, of all individuals, says. "They can be a bit socially awkward."
"Excuse you?" I can't believe what I'm hearing.
"It's fine, I'm pretty sure I overstepped anyway." Velvet says as she gets up. "I'll just go, also Cyril is already heading to lunch so, there's that."
"No you're fine!" Ruby blurts out apologetically. "You wanted details! Well me and Cyril are going to the movies tomorrow! So there's that, and me and Weiss went clothes shopping together yesterday, she got these cute pajamas that match mine."
"Ruby!" I hiss at the girl airing all of our laundry.
"Oh my gosh!" Velvet says as she eagerly sits back down. "Me and Yats are the same! We have matching pajama shirts, and they're the same size so he wears it as a shirt with pants. And I wear mine as a gown!" She squeals a bit at the end.
"Really!?" Ruby gushes as she and Velvet engage in a back and forth.
"Let me show you!" Velvet says as she pulls her scroll out of her pocket.
"Oh that's awesome!" Ruby grins and stomps her feet as Velvet shows off. "Weiss! We need to start taking pictures like this!"
I facepalm as I groan at the dork.
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"Oh and we need to go to a kissing booth!" Ruby begs as we walk down the hall. Well, I'm walking. "Please Weiss! The festival is sure to have them."
"Sure Ruby." I relent, hoping that's the last rant.
"What about the pool thing Velvet mentioned?" Blake asks, causing me to turn another glare at my awfully chatty partner.
"Oh! We could do that later today!" Ruby says. "I have a swimsuit, Cyril can easily get one and we can all go swimming together!"
I pull out my scroll as Ruby drones on. Apparently still on a high today after this morning's, activities between us in the shower.
I send a text to Blake, asking her what she thinks she's doing. And stare at the amber eyed girl as she checks her scroll.
"Oh." Blake says as she puts her scroll away and looks at me with a self satisfied grin. "Just some petty revenge for using all the hot water."
I take in a deep breath as I stop. Closing my eyes as I school my expression.
"Um, Weiss?" Ruby says nervously. "I-I can calm down if you want. If you need me to stop talking you can just… say so."
I take another breath and start walking ahead. Opening my eyes once I'm sure I've passed the two.
"Ruby, you're fine." I say after a bit.
"Are you sure?" Ruby asks as she petals over to stand beside me.
"Yes." I nod my head.
"Okay because sometimes I feel like you just say that to make me feel better and I appreciate that you-"
"Ruby." I say, causing the girl to eep and become silent. "You can stop talking now."
The rest of the walk is done in silence. Until we all hear someone coming our way. Or rather, someones.
"Something happen?" Blake asks as she steps slightly closer to me.
"Not sure." I respond. "All I can get is muffled shouts."
"Should we, move?" Ruby asks. "Like, see what's going on?"
"I don't believe that's necessary." I say as I pick up on their negativity. One slighlty fearful and one mildly spiteful, being followed by an angry one."
"Get back here Leon!" I manage to hear as they get closer.
"What now?" I sigh as I feel my shoulders tense.
"Maybe they misspoke?" Ruby offers. "Like, they meant to say. Get back here… peon! Like they're calling them a minion?"
"Gonna have to move faster than that you jolly ginger giant!" We hear Cyril call back.
"Ha! Oh I am so remembering that!" Sun says with a laugh just before we see them round a corner at the end of the hall.
Only Sun keeps running however. As soon as Cyril turns the corner, he slams himself against the wall. Slipping behind Cardin as he turns the corner and runs right past Cyril. Who is now running in the opposite direction back to the cafeteria as Cardin chases Sun towards us.
"Ladies." Sun winks and gives a salute before jumping over us as we step aside.
"Move it!" Cardin barrels past, and we get a look at him from behind. And see the words bottom bitch painted in white on the back of his uniform blazer.
"What's a bottom, um b word?" Ruby whispers as she leans over towards me and Blake.
"It's someone who prefers to be on the bottom in bed." Blake answers like it's nothing.
"Blake!" I hiss to the irritating woman.
"So, like…" Ruby trails off and looks at me with a blush, before averting her eyes as she wisely decides not to continue that line of thought.
At this point I don't know who's going to kill me first. Cyril, Ruby or Blake.
Might be all three at once.
'All three, at once?' I wonder in my head as I picture my partner naked. 'How would that- No! Stop it!'
I stomp my foot and turn around. Intent on heading for the lunchroom and learn just what Cyril did and how much I need to yell at him.
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-Meanwhile, Vale Upper District, Schnee residency manor-
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Jacques Schnee POV
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"Next Message: Jacques! You limp dick ladder climber, you expect me to-"
"Delete." I command the machine as I stare out at the scenery. This particular manor having a beautiful view of the ocean past the city's buildings.
"Message Deleted, Next Message: Hello Mr. Schnee, this is board chairman Braun, it has come to my attention that my son may have offended your daughter's paramour at a recent gathering and I would just-"
"Delete." I say again.
"Message Deleted, Next Message: Jacques."
My eyes go wide as I look to the answer machine. Not expecting the deep, methodical voice of the patron to one of Atlas's oldest living lineages.
"I've no doubt your daughter has informed you of my invitation to her romantic interest. Yes I know about the boy and your daughter's relations. If all goes well I feel I should congratulate you, the Schnee line with Silver Eyes? Nicholas would be truly honored his family's legacy would live on as venerated and respected heroes of Atlas. But let's skip the formalities shall we? The leak of info, don't bother looking for it. You have better things to do. If your daughter presses the issue then I'm certain that an impressionable intern with bright eyes and an eagerness to brag about the important work they've found can be: End Message. Would You Like To-"
"Skip message, play next message!" I say frantically.
"Next Message: My apologies, I ended the message by accident. Regardless, you understand Jacques. You're not like the rest of the upper class of Atlas who like to think they're smart when all they are is placeholders and bank tellers for the greater economy. We don't need to play these games, we're too smart for it and have too much to do… If it makes you feel better, I merely wish to speak with the boy. Know his mind, nothing more. Have a good day Jacques, I wish you well: End Message: Would You Like To Save This Message In The Archives, Delete This Message, Or Hear More Options?"
I take a breath and turn back to the window. My mind running and yet, at the same time blank all at once.
What to do? He's clearly up to something. But, it could be minor. A man like him is used to just getting his way.
Thing is, can I afford to upset the man?
"No." I say to myself.
Brand pharmaceuticals and medical technologies is the primary healthcare provider for Schnee Worker's Insurance. Upsetting him could cause the man to cut funding to certain areas, or demand renegotiations.
While it wouldn't change anything. He can't change our contract as easily as that. The headlines would cause unease in the workers. Unease and fear that their healthcare is at risk. Unease and fear that will no doubt attract Grimm to the work sites and only further cause headaches as I'm forced to play damage control.
"Delete." I say softly.
"Message Deleted, No New Messages." I let the machine play out before it shuts itself off.
I pull out my personal scroll. And sigh as I dial a number.
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"This is the personal number of Specialist Winter Schnee of the Atlesian Military. Any solicitors or salespersons attempting to waste my time will have their numbers track and be fined for the inconvenience." The sound of my first daughter's voice sounds out.
"Winter, it's your father." I start off. "I'm aware you're currently en route to Vale for a security transport. Now, assuming you've been listening to my messages you would know I am already in Vale on other matters. If possible, I would like to meet. Discuss and perhaps share a meal. That is all."
I press the red button, ending the message. Staring out across the city, I let out a tired sigh as I turn from the window. Heading to my office to get some work done.
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Bonus
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Harse Belief
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Harse culture is most commonly known for its pacifistic nature. Pacifism being the avoidance of conflict, or at least seeing it as a last resort.
Now many believe the Harse to be atheistic and as having no deities. But that is not true, the opposite in fact. Of all the belief systems on record, Harse culture pays homage to more than four hundred deities. And those are just the ones recorded. But we're getting ahead of ourselves.
Harse culture puts emphasis on empathy, sympathy, and rational. They hold the idea that all people are born with two sources to their soul. One, the call Harat, the other is Carse.
Harat is all of their instincts given to them by nature and their internal feelings in regards to their surroundings. Put simply, their emotions.
Carse is their own self awareness, harnessed through life experience and self reflection. In other words, their knowledge and reasoning.
They hold the belief that in order to gain the most fulfillment out of life, they must find the perfect balance in themselves. And everyone's balance is different. Some are born with more Harat and must work towards evening it out by calming, or by increasing their Carse. Those born with more Carse should strive to connect with nature and their community to find themselves and their own sense of purpose.
Peace in a community is achieved when everyone can find a balance between their emptions and reasoning. Hence their chosen name being an amalgamation of Harat and Carse. Harse.
In terms of romance, the Harse have no universally established system of tradition for intimate relationships. The Harse being one of two Faunus groups to survive Mantle and its heavy slave trade. The other being the Bull'ack. The slave trade made any process of establishing set traditions, difficult. Which is how they wound up with so many deities. Being displaced so often as they were, they incorporated a bit of everything.
There are two sides to their system of worship. Veneration and Acknowledgement.
The Harse do believe in an afterlife, though it's more vague and ambiguous as compared to other interpretations. They believe that those who strive for peace are rewarded and sent to a higher plane where negativity and strife do not exist. And, where they may still watch over the world from on high. The greater a person you were in life, the more effect you may impose on the world with your deeds and are venerated. And the greatest of individuals may even become acknowledged as gods. They believe that every deity from other beliefs were at one point living people. And those people achieved such great deeds that their influence stretches far past their years.
Many Harse even claim that Alexander Arc is a god. That the freedom of Faunus in the modern day is proof of his acknowledgement by heaven. And that is the mark of a god in the Harse belief. The extent and effect of their life on the world after death.
By that same token however. They believe that since negativity cannot be carried into Heaven, the negativity is forced to stay on Remnant until it has burned itself out. Taking form in the Grimm. The more hatred, fear, resentment and ill-will one carries throughout their life stays with them until death, by which they pass into Heaven and leave their negativity behind to fester and torment others.
This is why the Harse refuse to fight people. They believe violence upon others only breeds negativity and thus breeds Grimm. And so they strive to keep peace in their communities. Becoming masters of de-escalation and negotiators.
They were the only tribe of Faunus to not partake in the Menagerian civil war, choosing to hold their given ground and plead for peace. Only ever acting in self defense to protect their land. This has elevated the opinion of other nation's people in regards to the Harse people.
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A/N
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Velvet just wanting to gush over relationships, made a friend in Ruby. And Ruby found a non-corruptive source for dating advice in the wholesome Velvet.
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It's not that Cyril has no experience dating, it's that he has experience dating in Remnant. Where relationships develop faster.
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Adorkable Ruby, good to see her.
So long as Weiss and Cyril don't take the initiative. Ruby is a cheerful goof. Once they take control, she's a shy and stuttering dork.
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The reason the location in Vacuo has a / for it's name. Is because it has two names. One the locals call it. The other non locals know it by.
Ghosted Plains, by the Tarakian natives
Hazy Wastes by everyone else.
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Also, remember, the Tarak see all other Tarak as family. A younger Tarakian calling an older Tarakian Uncle or Aunt does not mean they are related by blood. Just that they consider each other close like family.
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Also, a guilty secret of Weiss's is that she'll occasionally picture Summer when she's spending time with Ruby. Mainly because Summer just looks like Ruby, if Ruby was a milf.
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More comments! I want them all! Every one of them! Especially speculation, I love speculative comments.
Fuel me my NOOBIANS!
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Find me in my channel, newb's-grotto, on the discord.
Link to the discord: discord .gg/DarkWolfShiro