Disclaimer: Don't own either Rwby or Type Moon. So enjoy or don't

Chapter 68: Anticipation

As dawn illuminated the towering structures of Atlas Academy, its golden light filtering through the windows, Shirou was already engaged in meticulous preparations for breakfast. His movements, though precise, carried an underlying tension—his mind occupied with an exhaustive mental checklist regarding the impending evening. His hands gripped the edge of the counter momentarily before he sighed, his breath carrying the weight of his own expectations.

Blake, in stark contrast, exuded quiet composure. Her motions were fluid, efficient, and absent of unnecessary deliberation. A small, nearly imperceptible smile played on her lips, her excitement tempered by a calm self-assurance. While Shirou's anxieties manifested in ceaseless overanalysis, Blake allowed herself to embrace the quiet anticipation of what lay ahead.

"Relax, Shirou," she murmured as she deftly sliced fruit, her voice carrying a note of amusement. "It's just a date."

He exhaled sharply. "I know. I just want it to be perfect."

Blake's chuckle was soft but knowing. "It will be."

Their teammates, well aware of the significance of the day, exchanged knowing glances but refrained from excessive teasing. Even Yang, typically the first to offer a quip, merely smirked in silent amusement. As breakfast was served, the team gathered, their conversations lighthearted yet punctuated with an unspoken understanding.

"This is fantastic," Jaune remarked, taking another bite appreciatively.

Shirou, ever modest, gestured toward Blake. "She made most of it."

Blake nudged him lightly, shaking her head. Weiss, sipping her tea with an air of composed authority, placed her cup down with a precise motion. "Blake, remember—we have a spa appointment. It's imperative that you indulge in proper preparation for your evening."

Nora leaned in with an exaggerated waggle of her eyebrows. "And you boys get to survive the workshop with Pietro. Try not to get yourselves electrocuted."

Oscar groaned. "Why do I feel like we got the short end of the deal?"

Jaune laughed. "Because we did."

The spa Weiss had arranged for their visit was among Atlas's finest—an opulent sanctuary designed for indulgence and refinement. The moment they stepped inside, a delicate aroma of lavender and jasmine greeted them, the ambient warmth instantly soothing.

A uniformed attendant approached. "Weiss Schnee?"

Weiss nodded, her posture composed. "We have an appointment. Ensure that Miss Belladonna receives the highest level of care."

The woman beamed. "Of course. Right this way."

As Blake was ushered toward her treatment, Yang leaned in. "Excited?"

Blake hesitated, then gave a small nod. "It's been a long time since I've been on a real date. But… yes."

Yang grinned. "Good. Because if he messes up—"

"Yang," Weiss interjected, exasperated. "She is here to relax, not to endure your protective theatrics."

Blake chuckled softly, settling into her chair. The attendants worked with expert precision, ensuring every detail—her hair, nails, and overall appearance—was meticulously refined. Meanwhile, the rest of the group indulged in their own treatments, engaging in lighthearted banter.

Nora nudged Weiss. "You're really leaning into the big sister role, huh?"

Weiss scoffed. "Someone has to ensure things proceed smoothly."

Ruby giggled. "Blake, you're going to look amazing."

Blake allowed herself to smile. She was grateful for their support.

Meanwhile, the boys were engaged in the intricate work of assisting Pietro Polendina in his research facility. The air carried the scent of metal and circuitry, the quiet hum of machinery punctuated by occasional bursts of conversation.

"Hand me the wrench?" Jaune requested as he struggled to stabilize a device.

Oscar complied, while Ren examined Penny's latest schematics. "This is remarkable work."

Pietro, ever the proud inventor, chuckled. "Penny continues to evolve."

As the group worked, Pietro gestured for Shirou to step aside. "And how are things progressing for you?" he inquired with paternal warmth.

Shirou offered a small but genuine smile. "I couldn't ask for better companions."

Pietro's expression shifted to one of knowing amusement. "And Blake?"

A faint blush dusted Shirou's cheeks. "Tonight is our first date."

Pietro grinned. "About time! What's the plan?"

Before Shirou could elaborate, his scroll vibrated. A message from Jacques Schnee appeared, detailing a five-star reservation at Gusteau's alongside supplementary accommodations.

Pietro's joviality momentarily dimmed. "Exercise caution in your dealings with him."

Shirou hesitated. "I know he has a reputation, but his help has been… surprisingly generous."

Pietro adjusted his glasses, his expression thoughtful. "That man doesn't give without expecting something in return. I won't tell you what to do, but I urge you to tread carefully."

Shirou nodded, considering the warning. "I appreciate the advice. But for tonight, I just want to focus on making it special."

Pietro chuckled again, his concern easing. "Then stop worrying so much and enjoy yourself, my boy. If anyone deserves a good evening, it's you."

Shirou exhaled, smiling. "Thanks, Pietro."

Upon returning to the Academy, Shirou meticulously went through every detail of his attire. He checked the fit of his suit, smoothed out the fabric, and ensured his tie was perfectly aligned. Every motion carried a sense of precision, but underlying it all was the simple desire to be at his best for Blake.

Meanwhile, the girls arrived at the dormitory, where Weiss immediately assumed command. "Blake, let's see the final result."

Blake stepped forward, the culmination of her preparation evident in her polished elegance. The shimmering luster of her dress, the subtle touches of makeup, and the confidence in her stance left no doubt—she was ready.

Ruby clapped her hands together. "You look incredible!"

Yang's expression was one of quiet pride. "He's not going to know what hit him."

Blake took a steadying breath, nodding. "I hope so."

Upon returning to the Academy, Shirou meticulously went through every detail of his attire. He checked the fit of his suit, smoothed out the fabric, and ensured his tie was perfectly aligned. Every motion carried a sense of precision, but underlying it all was the simple desire to be at his best for Blake.

Meanwhile, the girls arrived at the dormitory, where Weiss immediately assumed command. "Blake, let's see the final result."

Blake stepped forward, the culmination of her preparation evident in her polished elegance. The shimmering luster of her dress, the subtle touches of makeup, and the confidence in her stance left no doubt—she was ready.

Ruby clapped her hands together. "You look incredible!"

Yang's expression was one of quiet pride. "He's not going to know what hit him."

Blake took a steadying breath, nodding. "I hope so."