LOCATION: Vale - Hidden Warehouse
Dozens of white fang soldiers were walking along the warehouse. Carrying boxes filled with dust while others were moving large equipment out into the open space beyond. Shouts of orders sounded in the air while a few of them stood around waiting for further instructions. One muscular white fang soldier was maneuvering a crane to put down a heavy box filled with loads of dust, one that he and his comrades had stolen yesterday. Other members of the white fang who were not suited for fighting occupied themselves by checking on both the Bullhead's wings and fuel tanks; or fixing minor problems with the ship's systems.
Just another peaceful day…
Midoriya Izuku burst through the warehouse's roof window. He landed on the floor with a powerful thump, and the ground shook slightly when his feet made contact, causing smoke and crackles of emerald energy to radiate around the area akin to a shock wave. Every member of the white fang became alert, grabbed their weapons by instinct, and marched towards the boy hidden in the smoke. The soldiers narrowed their eyes in an attempt to see better, but couldn't make much detail out from where they currently stood. The other armed members gasped in shock as they saw two black tendrils shot out from the smoke, snaring two of their comrades by the waist, and pulled them off their feet forward.
The two faunes men shouted as they were pulled through the smoke. Sounds of punches hitting flesh filled the area, followed by two thumps against the hard floor, and then silence. Some of the men exchanged glances, then four White Fang soldiers rushed towards the direction where their comrade had been dragged off from, leaving everyone else behind to stare at each other in confusion and fear. Not even a second after one White Fang soldier entered the smoke cloud, his body was sent flying backwards and slammed against a wall, knocking several crates over onto him. He groaned as he laid there motionless, his head hanging limply.
Izuku leapt out of the smoke and landed in the center. The White Fang aimed their rifles at him, surrounding him with multiple barrels pointed right at his face. But before any of them could pull the trigger, Izuku outstretched his arms, discharging tendrils of Blackwhip toward, and coiling around his target's waist tightly. Izuku lifted them in the air by raising his arms. Bringing said targets snared in his grasp down as he rushed his arms downward, slamming all of the men to the hard floor.
Izuku felt Danger Sense buzzing in his head. He swiftly retreated backwards with a leap, dodging a bullet that came speeding right for his head. As another bullet flew past him, he jumped and activated the seventh user's Float quirk. Hovering midair and glancing down at his assailant with narrowed eyes. The White Fang soldier glared up at him under his mask, reloading their gun and taking aim again.
Tendrils of Blackwhip erupted from his gloves to ensnare the assailant's torso. With a swift motion, he anchored his arm and hoisted the man into his line of sight. Drawing back his fist, he unleashed a devastating blow to his face, the impact breaking the man's mask in two, caving in his nose, and sending shockwaves through the air. The faunus soldier crumpled to the floor, the tendrils loosening their grip. Skidding several meters away from his fellow brothers, ultimately lying motionless on his back.
Izuku landed on the floor in front of a pair of faunus soldiers. He flicked his fingers with precision, sending a barrage of air bullets crashing into their bellies. The force was overwhelming; the soldiers cried out in pain, their bodies sent flying across the warehouse, and smashed against the walls. Their guns clattered to the floor as they laid stuck to the wall with their heads and arms went limp.
Izuku shifted his gaze to his left. He saw the last group of the White Fang all lined up, with their weapons aimed directly at him.
Deku turned to face them with determination plastered upon his features and leapt forward.
LOCATION: Beacon Academy - Team RWBY's Dorm
Sunshine basked the towers of Beacon Academy. Every student of two genders was still sleeping in their beds while teachers and janitors had awoken early for today's task. The morning sun shone brightly into the room through beacon's open dorm room window. Weiss slept peacefully in her dorm, a small smile gracing her lips. Her eyes flickered open as she pulled herself up with a yawn, having awoken from a rather peaceful slumber. Her eyes shot wide when her ears were suddenly assaulted by a whistle that blew loudly at her face, causing the ice queen to fall out of her bed with a yelp.
"GOOD MORNING, TEAM RWBY!" Ruby shouted enthusiastically, already fully dressed in her Beacon School uniform with her titular red hooded cape.
"What in the world is wrong with you!?" Weiss exclaimed.
"Now that you're awake, we can officially begin our first order of business!" Ruby declared, dodging her partner's question.
"Excuse me?" Weiss questioned, pulling herself up.
"Decorating!" Yang exclaimed enthusiastically, holding a cluster of knick-knacks in her arms. She and Blake were also dressed in their school uniforms.
"What?" Weiss questioned again.
"We still have to unpack." Blake held up her suitcase, which accidentally opened and spilled all her contents over the floor. "…And clean."
Weiss' eyelids lowered with unamusement plastered on her countenance. Only to be blown back by Ruby's whistleblowing again.
"Alright! Weiss, Blake, Yang, and their fearless leader Ruby have begun their first mission! Banzai!" The young silver-eyed girl cheered.
"Banzai!" Yang and even Blake cheered as well, while Weiss lowered her head in emotional exhaustion.
The four immediately began to decorate their dorm room. Yang places a poster of six guys in various poses in her part of the room. Weiss positions the painting of the Forever Fall forest to perfection and walks away. Blake is busy putting away her books on the shelves, picking up a copy of Ninjas of Love and widening her eyes as she warily looks around before putting it back. Ruby positions Crescent Rose at an exact angle against the curtains so she can perfectly slash a diagonal portion off.
After a few minutes It appeared to be finished. However, the four girls wince at just how tightly packed their room was. Between the beds, furniture, and all their decorations, there was absolutely no room to walk. They couldn't even see the floor. In fact, their beds were all piled on top of each other.
"This… isn't going to work." Weiss pointed out.
"It is a bit cramped." Blake added.
Yang looked at their room with uncertainty. "Maybe we should ditch some of our stuff?"
Ruby frowned at their room's state.
"Or we could ditch the beds… and replace them with bunk beds!" Ruby suggested excitedly, a smile gracing her lips.
"Um, that sounds incredibly dangerous." Weiss commented.
"And super awesome!" Yang pumped her fist.
"It does seem efficient." Even Blake seemed to agree.
"Well… um… we should put it to a vote." Weiss tried.
"I think we just did." Countered Ruby.
All four of the girls seemed all for it as they gave the bunk bed option the majority. Weiss assisted her newly formed team with reluctance in constructing the bunk beds. Though it appeared to be done in record time, neither appeared structurally sound. The one on the right was supported by a stack of books on each leg; while the other had the 'top bunk' tied to the ceiling with rope and a sheet to act as a drape.
"Objective complete!" Ruby announced, pleased with their work.
"This is not structurally sound!" Weiss stated. "What if one of them collapses?! That could kill someone!"
"I may have to agree," Blake said. "It was a good idea Ruby, but we could probably do better."
"Yeah, we'll probably need to get someone to help later." Yang said.
"Okay…" Ruby accepted. "But right now, onto our second order of business… classes." She said that last part with much less enthusiasm as she took out her schedule book. "Now, we have a few classes together today, at nine we've got…"
Weiss's eyes grew large.
"What?!" Weiss suddenly exclaimed. "Did you say nine o'clock!?"
Ruby blinked. "Um…?"
"It's eight fifty-five, you dunce!" The heiress shouted.
Weiss rolled her body around and ran out of the dorm and into the hallway. This alerted the newly formed Team JNPR that resided in the room across the hall.
"Um… t-t-to class!" Ruby tried to save some face as she, Yang, and Blake ran out to catch up with Weiss.
"C-Class…?!" Jaune stuttered as he tried to run out as well, only to trip and fall, but Pyrrha quickly pulled him up. "We're gonna be late!"
Jaune began urgently running down the carpeted hallway. Nora, Pyrrha, and Ren ran out as fast as they could as well to follow their leader. Team RWBY and Team JNPR sprinted down Beacon Academy's school grounds with haste.
Professor Ozpin and Glynda Goodwitch watched the scene from where they stood. Glynda shook her head in disappointment, while Ozpin found the sight amusing.
Ozpin took a sip of his morning coffee and hummed in thought.
LOCATION: Beacon Academy - Classroom
"Monster! Demons! Prowlers of the night! Yes, the Creatures of Grimm have many names."
Every beacon student of two genders were seated in Professor Port's class. One of which Team RWBY attended in full as they listened to his lecture. While some paid full attention to the Professor, others were sound asleep due to how boring it was. Ruby would've been among those who slept during the narrator's lecture, however she was busy scribbling on her paper with a bright and sad smile gracing her lips.
Weiss arched her brow when she looked over her shoulder to see Ruby drawing illustrations of Midoriya Izuku. Few of them were his punches and kicks, others were weapons that the heiress deduced Ruby thought might fit for him. Weiss knew Ruby missed Izuku, like one would miss a friend. But what caught her eye the most was the second drawing the silver eyed girl drew.
The art had all of Team RWBY in it, with Izuku added in line next to Yang—much to the heiress's surprise. Even the name was changed. Weiss waited for the professor to turn away before looking back at Ruby's drawing. Getting a chance to read the scribble letters written on top of the five individuals:
Team RWMBY.
"But I merely refer to them as 'prey'." Port attempted at a jest but got no response from his class. But the professor was honored by silence from every student in the room. "Uh… and you shall too, upon graduating from this prestigious academy. Now, as I was saying… Vale, as well as the other three Kingdoms, are safe havens in an otherwise treacherous world. Our planet is absolutely teeming with creatures that would love nothing more than to tear you to pieces. And that's where we come in, Huntsmen, Huntresses…"
He clicked at that last term, causing Yang to roll her eyes in annoyance.
"Individuals who have sworn to protect those who cannot protect themselves. From what, you ask? Why, the very world!" He announced dramatically.
"Yeah!" Only one student cheered. However, he received stares from the other students, causing him to sink back into his seat embarrassingly.
"That is what you are training to become." Port continued. "But first, a story. A tale of a young, handsome man: me."
As he began to monologue his own personal story, Weiss glanced to her left to see Ruby scribbling another drawing. The third illustration was Ruby and Izuku exchanging a fist bump, smiling at each other at the top of a hill. It was a perfect rendition of their moment in time from yesterday. Weiss redirected her gaze back at Ruby and narrowed her eyes.
"In the end, the Beowolf was no match for my sheer tenacity. And I returned to my village with the beast in captivity and my head held high! Celebrated as a hero!" He bowed, signaling the end of his story. "The moral of this story, a true Huntsmen must be honorable, a true Huntsmen must be dependable, a true Huntsmen must be strategic, well-educated, and wise."
Weiss clenched her fist tightly. Her frustration simmered just beneath the surface. Though she remained silent, a storm of thoughts raged within her. She couldn't shake the belief that Ozpin had erred in appointing Ruby as the team's leader. The impulsive decisions Ruby had made the previous day only reinforced Weiss's conviction that she lacked the maturity necessary for such a responsibility. If Weiss had been entrusted with the role, she imagined her team would have operated with greater efficiency and a stronger sense of purpose.
A pang of jealousy pierced through Weiss as she reflected on Ruby's age and her own years of training. It seemed unjust that someone younger, despite her quick thinking in crises, had been favored over her. Deep down, Weiss longed for the opportunity to prove herself as a capable leader, to showcase her skills and dedication to the team. Closing her eyes, she took a deep breath, trying to quell the turmoil inside her and refocus on the task at hand.
In her mind's eye, she's a diligent student and a fierce warrior. She was confident in her ability to guide her team through perilous situations, drawing on the rigorous training her sister had provided back home. Weiss grasped the essence of leadership; a quality that Ruby struggled to comprehend. If Weiss had been at the helm, she would have addressed Ruby's frustratingly innocent outlook with a firm hand, ensuring that her team was prepared for the harsh realities they faced, rather than indulging in the silver-eyed girl's whimsical idealism. The contrast between their approaches highlighted the challenges of teamwork, as Weiss often found herself grappling with the implications of Ruby's optimism in dire circumstances.
"So, who among you believes themselves to be the embodiment of these traits?" Port asked his students. In response, Weiss immediately and aggressively raised her hand.
"I do, sir!" Complied Weiss with a shout.
"Well then, let's find out." Port said as he turned toward the side of the room where a cage containing a Grimm was stationed. "Step forward and face your opponent."
After taking the time to get changed into her Huntress outfit and quipping her weapon, Weiss made a combat stance. Pointing Myrtenaster at the cage.
"Go Weiss!" Yang cheered.
"Fight well!" Blake waved a small flag that had RWBY written on it.
"Yeah! Represent Team RWBY!" Ruby also cheered.
"Ruby, I'm trying to focus!" Weiss scolded her leader, causing her to sink into her seat.
Ruby rubbed the back of her head. "Oh… Um, sorry…"
"Alright, let the match begin!" Port used his own weapon to cut open the cage, setting loose the Boarbatusk Grimm inside.
The creature immediately charged at Weiss with a spring. She swiftly rolled out of the way to slice at its side, but the Boarbatusk's armored hide protected it. The creature rounded to face Weiss once more.
"Ha, ha. Wasn't expecting that, were you?" Port asked the heiress.
"Hang in there, Weiss!" Ruby cheered.
Weiss propelled herself forward using a Glyph, her focus was unwavering despite the ferocious charge of the Boarbatusk. The creature's massive tusks swung toward her, aiming to dislodge her weapon, Myrtenaster, from her grip. With a fierce determination, Weiss felt the tug as the Boarbatusk attempted to throw her off balance. However, her training kicked in, and she quickly adjusted her stance, using her strength and agility to pry Myrtenaster free from the creature's grasp. The struggle intensified, but Weiss's resolve only grew stronger as she prepared for the next move in this fierce confrontation.
As Weiss activated her Glyph, she felt a surge of energy propel her forward, aiming directly at the charging Boarbatusk. The creature, massive and fierce, swung its formidable tusks in a desperate attempt to thwart her advance. In a split second, Myrtenaster became ensnared, the tusks acting as an unwelcome leverage point. The force of the swing threatened to send Weiss tumbling, but her training kicked in.
Weiss focused on regaining her balance, her grip tightening around the hilt of her weapon. The Boarbatusk thrashed, trying to dislodge her, but Weiss was resolute. She began to maneuver, using her strength and agility to pry Myrtenaster free, refusing to let the beast dictate the outcome of their clash. Each moment was a test of will, and she was ready to rise to the challenge.
"Bold in your approach, I like it!" Port observed.
"Come on Weiss, show it who's boss!" Ruby continued to cheer.
The silver eyed girl's cheering distracted Weiss. Causing her to lose her grip on the sword's handle, which the Boarbatusk threw away with its tusks before knocking Weiss back with its primary weapons.
"Oh-ho. Now what will you do without your weapon?" Port asked.
Weiss gasped as she caught sight of the massive Boarbatusk charging toward her with terrifying speed. Her instincts kicked in, and she swiftly dodged to the side, rolling out of harm's way just as the Grimm collided forcefully with the wall behind her, sending debris flying. Heart racing, she seized the opportunity to make a break for her weapon, Myrtenaster, which lay just a few feet away, glinting in the dim light. With determination fueling her movements, she sprinted toward it, knowing that her survival depended on her quick thinking and agility.
"Weiss! Go for its belly!" Ruby told her. "There's no armor underneath…"
"Stop telling me what to do!" Weiss yelled, causing Ruby to lower herself.
The Boarbatusk roared before rolling into a ball and spun toward Weiss at high speed. She conjured a Glyph to break its advance, knocking it on its back. She leapt into the air where a second black Glyph was conjured to propel herself at the downed Grimm, impaling it through its underbelly, killing it.
"Bravo! Bravo!" Port nodded as Weiss took a moment to catch her breath. "It appears we are indeed in the presence of a true Huntress-in-training. I'm afraid that's all the time we have for today. Be sure to cover the assigned readings and stay vigilant. Class dismissed."
The students stood up from their seats and turned away toward the classroom's exit. Ruby looked with concern and worry at her teammate. Weiss silently stormed off out of class, and Ruby trailed after her.
"Weiss!" Ruby called, catching up to her in the hallways.
"What?!" The heiress shouted, glaring at her.
"What's wrong with you?! Why are you being…?!"
"What's wrong with me?!" Weiss questioned. "What's wrong with you?! You're supposed to be a leader! And all you've been so far, is a nuisance!"
Ruby scoffed. "What did I do?!"
"That's just it! You've done nothing to earn your position!" Weiss told her.
Ruby frowned at her partner.
"B-But what about what Izuku told us in the Forest?" Ruby asked. "About, ya know, us starting a professional relationship?"
"Well, perhaps you should not only act professional but take this leadership seriously!" Weiss argued. "I studied, and trained, and quite frankly, I deserve better. So if this is how you intend to lead this team on a daily basis, then I'm not sure I want to be a part of it."
Weiss turned away with her arms crossed.
"Ozpin made a mistake."
Ruby watched Weiss walk away down the hallway. Her heels echoing the hall with a click. Ruby glanced down at the floor. Dejection plastered her countenance as a strong sense of hurt filling her being. She slowly turned around to start back toward her dorm, until she halted in her tracks. She blinked in surprise as she stared bewilderingly at the sight before.
Standing in front of the silver eyed girl was a normal white door. Ruby yelped in surprise, and retreated one step backward when said door suddenly creaked open. The doorway revealed a grass field that stretched out for miles into the horizon. A gentle wind swept across it, making soft rustling noises as it did so. The moon's pale light basked the field in an almost ethereal glow.
Ruby scanned her surroundings in the hallway. The hall was empty of any other students aside from herself and the mysterious door. She shifted her gaze back to the doorway, then ventured slowly forward, taking small steps as she walked. The grass underneath her boots crunched softly, causing a circular glow to appear with each step she took. Followed by a low hum emitting from the grass.
Ruby proceeded forward a little more. Finally she stopped at the field's center, and looked around; there weren't any oceans of trees or hills, just fields of grass. It seemed as though the world had been cut off into a single point. And all she could see were grasslands stretching on forever. It made her feel a bit uneasy.
Ruby looked over her shoulder and her eyes shot wide. The door was gone! She spun around and looked frantically around, but there was no sign of where it had gone. Not even a smidgen of a shimmer of a door frame remained.
That…couldn't have happened, right?
It couldn't have!
This must be some kind of hallucination!
"Don't worry, I'll send you back once we're done talking."
Ruby whirled around and glanced up. Only to come face to face with a woman. She stood at approximately eight feet tall and had a heavier build. She had smooth, chocolate brown skin, defined caramel lips, and had long, curly brunette hair styled in thick ringlets. She wore a strapless, floor-length black dress.
Ruby's eyes crawled up to the woman's vision and gasped softly.
She… she had…
Silver eyes, Ruby thought absentmindedly.
The tall woman's most distinct feature was her silver eyes. Reminiscent of Ruby's—bright, innocent, and brimming with wonder for the world. These eyes sparkled with an ancient wisdom, hinting at stories untold and experiences deeply etched within. Aware of Ruby's gaze, the woman responded with a warm smile that radiated kindness and understanding, inviting Ruby into a moment of connection.
As their eyes locked, Ruby felt a comforting warmth spread through her chest, an unfamiliar sensation that began to mend the void left by her mother's passing. The silver eyes of the woman seemed to echo the love and light of her mother, filling the emptiness with a gentle reassurance. It was as if the woman could see the depths of Ruby's sorrow and was silently promising that she was not alone in her grief.
In that fleeting moment, the world around them faded, leaving only the profound connection forged through shared experiences and understanding. Ruby realized that this encounter was not merely a chance meeting; it was a reminder that even in loss, there exists the possibility of finding solace and hope in others who carry similar burdens. The silver eyes of the woman reflected not just wisdom, but also the power of healing through empathy and shared sorrow.
"Hello, dear child," the woman greeted, gently crouching down to one knee.
Ruby blinked rapidly as if to clear the mist of her thoughts.
"Oh, um, hello," Ruby returned politely, rubbing at the back of her head. "Who are you?"
The woman chuckled softly.
"My name is Ebon," she introduced herself, offering her hand to Ruby. "Charmed I'm sure."
Ruby looked at the outstretched hand then back at the silver eyes. She reached forward and shook Ebon's hand. Her hand was warm, soft, and delicate. When the pair pulled apart, Ruby once again looked around the field with newfound curiosity and wonder.
"Where am I?" Ruby asked, looking back at Ebon.
"You're in a dimension that exists outside of your world. One that can be accessed through my doorway, much like the one you walked through earlier," Ebon explained, turning her head away to gaze at the field. "This place has a time-compressed nature, making the flow of time vastly different compared to the flow of time outside."
"Huh?" Ruby was confused.
Ebon chuckled at Ruby's reaction.
"To make this easier to understand, one year inside this place is the equivalent to one day on the outside," Ebon clarified, gesturing at the field.
Ruby's eyes widened in amazement at this revelation. "Woah. Wow. That is cool…"
Ruby pauses upon realizing something.
"Wait, if that is the case, how long have you been here?" Ruby asked, looking at her with bewilderment.
Ebon briefly glanced down at the ground then looked back at Ruby.
"More than ten thousand years," Ebon replied.
Ruby blinked in shock. She couldn't believe what she heard. There was no way she lived here for that long, right? That's insane! Ruby watched Ebon stood upright and beckoned her by jerking her head toward her right.
"Come, let's talk," Ebon offered, gracefully rolling her body around.
Ebon raised her hand and snapped her fingers. With a poof, two chairs and a circular table materialized from nothing. The furniture landed on the earth's floor with grace, and Ebon motioned for Ruby to take a seat. Ruby obliged her hostess, plopping herself down onto the chair with her legs crossed. Ebon sat down across from her, crossing her own legs elegantly.
"I must say, that girl back there is quite an Ice Queen," Ebon remarked as she settled into her seat. Ruby blinked in surprise.
"You saw that?" Ruby asked.
"Mmhm," Ebon replied with a nod.
Ruby poked her index fingers together.
"How long were you watching?" Ruby asked, looking at Ebon curiously.
"Since the day Ozpin offered you an invite to beacon academy," Ebon answered simply.
Ruby glanced down at the ground with a frown. The words of Weiss rang in her ears, resurfacing the strong hurt that was previously residing deep in the recesses of her heart. She looked back at the woman.
"Do you think she's right?" Ruby asked. "Did Ozpin make a mistake in making me the leader?"
Ebon slightly laughs.
"That remains to be seen, child," Ebon answered, placing her hands atop her lap.
Ruby arched a brow at her. "What do you mean?"
"I mean it's only been one day," stated Ebon, shrugging slightly. Ruby glanced uncertainly at the ground.
"But what if—" Ruby tried to ask another question, only for Ebon to lean over the table and clasp a hand over her mouth.
"Ah, ah, ah," Ebon admonished lightly, wagging a finger at her, smiling amusedly. "Don't do that. You shouldn't fill your mind with so much 'what if I mess up?'. Don't tell yourself you're gonna do something wrong, or all you're gonna do is stress yourself out."
Silence fell between them as Ruby digested Ebon's words. Ebon leaned back in her seat after a moment.
"I know it's cool being the leader of your team in all, Ruby. But being a team leader isn't just a title you carry into the battlefield, but it's also a badge of honor you wear every single day," Ebon said. "Just because a person becomes a leader, doesn't mean they call all the shots. It's okay to make good ideas ahead of time but sometimes not all of them are viable. Their teammate's ideas could be better than the leader could conjure. How? They talk to each other, they listen to each other, and they compromise with each other."
Ebon leaned forward and rested her arms on the table.
"That is what you must do with your team, Ruby. Never allow fear to hold you back from asking your teammates—your friends any questions if you have to. You're never gonna get along with them if you can't, and the whole party will fall apart."
Ruby glanced down at her lap as her mind raced with the possibilities Ebon had presented. The realization that Weiss's stubbornness could be balanced by her wealth of knowledge sparked a flicker of hope. Ruby pondered the idea of approaching Weiss for guidance, recognizing that her age and training could offer invaluable insights. The prospect of forging a stronger partnership with Weiss began to take shape in her mind, and Ruby felt a surge of determination. Perhaps this was the turning point she needed to bridge the gap between them and cultivate a more collaborative relationship moving forward.
"Thanks Ebon," Ruby said sincerely, glancing back at Ebon with a smile growing on her face.
"Anytime, Ruby." Ebon closed her eyes and smiled back.
"Are you a huntress?" Ruby asked, looking at Ebon curiously.
"No, but my sister was," Ebon replied. "She was a great leader back in her day. In fact, everything that I told you now were her words that she had said to her students. But she passed away a long time ago."
Ruby frowned upon hearing that.
"Oh. I'm sorry," said Ruby, sincerely.
Ebon waved her hand dismissively. "It's okay, I'm over it."
Ruby closed her eyes while lowering her head.
I will get better, for my team, Ruby thought.
"You know, Ruby," Ebon spoke suddenly. "If you do your cards right, maybe you'll be even more than Summer Rose ever was."
Ruby paused.
Did she hear that right?
"Wait a minute, how do you…" Ruby started, raising her head slowly.
Ruby blinked in surprise. She found herself no longer sitting in the peaceful grass field that had welcomed her. Instead, she was now standing back in Beacon Academy's empty hallway.
She took a step back and looked around; there was no sign of the door she walked through or Ebon anywhere in sight.
"Know my… mother?"
LOCATION: Beacon Academy - Balcony
Weiss sought solace in the cool evening air as she stepped out onto the balcony. The weight of resentment and jealousy lingered within her, a stark contrast to the serene beauty surrounding her. She looked up, captivated by the sun dipping below the horizon, casting vibrant hues of orange and pink across the sky, a breathtaking sight that momentarily distracted her from her tumultuous feelings. As she took a deep breath, trying to gather her thoughts, her eyes caught sight of Professor Port nearby, his shoulders silhouetted against the fading light, oblivious to her presence. The scene felt surreal, as if the world around her was painted in colors that reflected her inner turmoil.
"Professor Port." Weiss called, beginning her approach.
"Ah, Miss Schnee." The professor turned to greet her. "And to what do I owe this fine pleasure?"
"I-I enjoyed your lecture." She told him.
"Of course you did, child. You have the blood of a true Huntress in you." Port said.
"You really think so?" Weiss asked with a hopeful smile.
"Most surely." Port confirmed.
Weiss glanced down at the ground. Port noticed a far away and uncertain look in her eyes.
"Hmm, something's troubling you?" Port asked, looking at her curiously.
"Yes, sir." Weiss replied with a small nod.
"Dear girl, confess to me your strife." He encouraged her.
"Well, I think I should have been the leader of Team RWBY." Weiss said outright.
Port had listened to what she had to say, and had a response set immediately. "That's preposterous."
"Excuse me?!" Weiss questioned.
"I've believed in Professor Ozpin for many years, and the man's never once led me astray." Port said.
"So, you would just blindly accept his decision, even after seeing how exceptional I am?" Weiss questioned once again.
"With all due respect, your exceptional skill on the battlefield is matched only by your poor attitude." Port criticized.
"How dare you!" Weiss exclaimed.
"My point exactly." Port nodded. "I see a girl before me who has spent her entire life getting exactly what she wanted."
"That's not even remotely true." Weiss said, briefly looking away, a small flash of emotional pain filled her eyes. She noticed Port raising one of his eyebrows slightly at her. "Well… not entirely true."
Professor Port sighed.
"So, the outcome did not fall in your favor." Port continued. "Do you really believe that acting in such a manner would cause those in power to reconsider their decision? So instead of fretting about what you don't have, savor what you do. Hone your skills, perfect every technique, and be not the best leader but the best person you can be."
Weiss smiled at the professor. After listening to all Professor Port said, she understood that deep down he was right. There was no point complaining over an opportunity that went past her, all she would be doing is wasting her breath. But that doesn't mean she can't better herself. Her techniques, her skills, and being a better person.
The best version of herself.
LOCATION: Beacon Academy - Team RWBY's Dorm
Night had already fallen over Beacon Academy. Weiss entered her team's dorm, and was surprised to see the bunk beds they hastily constructed earlier in the morning now appeared far more stable. They weren't just stacked on top of each other or being suspended by ropes on the ceiling. There was proper construction around the posts which looked incredibly secure, like they were fixed up by a professional.
She noticed Yang and Blake sleeping on the right bunk with the latter at the top and former on the bottom. Weiss saw a sheet draped over the top bunk of the left bed where Ruby most likely was, with a soft light emanating from it. Lifting the drape, Weiss wasn't surprised to see Ruby asleep. What surprised her was finding Ruby asleep with a pencil in her hand, papers, and textbooks scattered around her. Even an empty coffee mug. Weiss gently nudged Ruby awake, who was startled by the heiress' sudden appearance.
"W-Weiss! I… I was studying, and then I fell asleep and I…" The younger girl was stopped when Weiss covered her mouth with her hand.
"How do you take your coffee?" Weiss asked, removing her hand from Ruby's mouth.
Ruby looked somewhat confused at the question. "Uh… I… I don't…"
"Answer the question." Weiss insisted.
"Cream and five sugars!" Ruby quickly replied, making sure to stay quiet enough to not wake up Yang and Blake.
"Don't move." Weiss told her, grabbing the coffee cup and going to a nearby coffee maker to quickly prepare a new cup with Ruby's specifications and handed it to the silver-eyed girl. "Here."
"Um, thanks Weiss…" Ruby said, in a mixture of appreciation and confusion.
Weiss smiled.
"Ruby, I apologize for my earlier outburst," Weiss said, her tone laced with professionalism. "I did say back in the Forest that we'd start with a professional relationship. So on that note, I think you have what it takes to be a good leader, and I promise to be the best teammate I can be."
Ruby returned the smile. "And, I promise to take this job seriously, and to listen to anything you might have to say."
Weiss nodded.
"Good. With that in mind, your answer right there is wrong." She pointed to something Ruby wrote on her notes.
She got down and began to walk out, but stopped at the doorway.
"Oh, and Ruby…"
Ruby glanced down at Weiss. Her lips graced with a small child-like smile.
"I always wanted bunk beds as a kid."
Weiss closed the door with a click. Ruby then turned back to her studies with a happy grin.
Ruby turned her head away and returned back to her studies.
LOCATION: Vale - Downtown West side
Midoriya Izuku's heart raced as he pursued the thief. Adrenaline surged through him, the cityscape blurred around him, the rooftops becoming a blur of concrete and steel. With each powerful thrust of his Blackwhip, he closed the distance, feeling the thrill of the chase. The thief glanced over his shoulder, panic flashing in his youthful eyes as he realized he was being hunted. Izuku's determination only intensified; he wouldn't let this criminal slip away.
As they neared the alley, Izuku's mind raced with strategies. The thief was agile, but Izuku had the advantage of experience and his Quirk. He could predict the thief's next move, anticipating the desperate attempt to evade capture. The alley loomed closer, a narrow escape route that would soon be blocked. With one final leap, Izuku prepared to corner the thief, ready to bring him to justice.
The thief hurried toward what looked like a decommissioned dumpster that was speckled with patches of rust and algae. Izuku was taking his time; he knew the thief had nowhere left to run. Swinging forward, Izuku let loose with a blast of Blackwhip that wrapped around the thief's legs and hung him upside down near an escape ladder. After handing over the thief to the officers he turned and shot out a strand of Blackwhip, pulling himself into the air. He began swinging through the city above many pedestrians and cars that drove by.
Few individuals of humans and faunas would halt in their place in time to glance up at him as he swung overhead. The spectators were of no concern to him; their attention was drawn elsewhere as he moved from streetlamp to streetlamp, eventually approaching a large building.
Izuku's eyes blinked in surprise.
He was staring at a building that was on fire.
Flames licked from its top, threatening to engulf the entire building. The structure's fire alarms blared as smoke poured from all the windows. Firefighters swarmed to the building attempting to put out the flames. Meanwhile police officers tried to disperse the crowd, directing the fleeing onlookers away. Izuku glanced down in time to see a faunus woman trying to break through the firefighters and paramedics.
Her eyes shone red and was covered in ash from her surroundings but she didn't care. Tears trickled down her cheeks as she struggled to break out of the two firefighters' grip, but they remained firm despite her pleas. Her cries grew louder when the two men pulled her away from the inflamed building.
"Please, my baby is in there!" Shrieked the faunus woman, struggling against the hold on her arm.
"I'm sorry ma'am but I can't let you in!" Said one of the fire fighters.
"But my baby!" Exclaimed the faunus woman.
"I'm sorry! We can't let you, the building's about to collapse!" Replied the second fire fighter.
"NO! Let ME GO!" Screamed the woman, still struggling against the grip of the men.
Izuku shifted his gaze towards the engulfed edifice. His eyes narrowed with unwavering determination; the absence of Pro Huntsman necessitated his prompt intervention to prevent further escalation. He extended his arm, releasing a tendril of Blackwhip towards the structure, and gracefully launched himself through a window, shattering the glass upon entry.
As his feet made contact with the plush carpeted floor, he swiftly pivoted, meticulously surveying the room for any lingering souls unable to escape. The flickering flames illuminated the space, casting ethereal shadows that gracefully danced upon the walls. Izuku diligently scanned the vicinity, his eyes darting in search of any semblance of movement, until they finally alighted upon a crib.
Izuku immediately approached the crib and knelt down next to it. The child inside whimpered softly and started crying. He slowly lifted the blanket covering the little girl, revealing her to be just as precious as she was adorable. She was about a year and a half old, with raven black hair and cat-like ears. She had delicate facial features and furr akin to a panther. Her chocolate eyes stared back at Izuku's and her whimpers turned into quiet sniffles as she gazed up at him.
"It's fine, I am here now," Izuku reassured the baby.
Izuku slowly picked her up and placed her gently in the crook of his left arm. She immediately curled into a ball as she continued to sniffle and cry. He stood slowly, keeping his eye locked on the child before turning his gaze back to the window and leapt out. Izuku breathed deeply when the scent of fresh air met his nostrils. It was refreshing compared to the acrid smell that lingered in the building just moments ago.
He sighed and relaxed as he felt the wind blowing against his skin; it was invigorating as he floated in midair, enjoying the scenery surrounding him. He landed on the ground next to both the stunned woman and the firefighters. Even the paramedics and the crowd halted momentarily when they noticed him. The police were the only ones unaffected; all three of them were busy trying to calm some of the bystanders.
"It's okay ma'am, your baby is fine," Izuku assured her, approaching the mother and carefully handing the baby to her arms.
The faunus woman looked down at the baby in her arms. A gentle smile broke across her features as she cooed at the infant, bouncing her lightly on her shoulder. She rocked her in a soothing manner, slowly back and forth whilst whispering sweet things. A small tear rolling down her cheek.
"Oh, my baby." Whispered the woman before she looked at Izuku with a tear-filled smile. "Thank you."
"Your welcome," Izuku returned, nodding his head with a smile.
Yoichi, the first user of One for All, materialized at Izuku's side.
"You should call it a night, Izuku. You've been saving people all day," Yoichi said, smiling at him.
'Right,' Izuku silently replied.
Izuku's arm shot upward and discharged a thread of Blackwhip at another building and pulled himself into the air. Every human and faunus watched the boy swing away in awe and wonderment. Far away from the scene, a black cloaked figure observed the green clad kid swinging away from behind the corner of an alleyway. He retreated backwards into the alley, hiding under the cover of darkness.
The figure pulled the hood behind their head. Revealing the face of an angry male lizard faunus, who began scanning his surroundings before retrieving his scroll from his pocket.
He stood at the alley's center after dialing the numbers. Brought the device up to his ear, waiting patiently.
After a few minutes the call was answered.
"Boss, we have a problem."
A/N: Well, there you have it young readers. Hope you all enjoyed today's twelfth chapter! Now, I know what all of you are thinking. Wasn't Izuku supposed to be getting his aura unlocked in this chapter? Yes, he was. But I decided to save that for the next chapter, and right now 34% of the first section finished—that's the first reason; the second reason is I'm planning on starting a new arc there, one that'll be an inspiration to a plot I've watched from one of my favorite movies. I apologize that I didn't deliver in this twelfth chapter, but I promise that when you do see it in the next chapter, it may or may not shock you.
I also want to apologize for the constant updates. Every time I come back to each of these chapters I notice an error in some of the typo's grammar, so I correct them word by word and update it then after. Bet y'all didn't expect to see that door as well as Ebon herself, huh? I won't say much about her, and instead let the chapters do its work by diving into the mystery of who Ebon is, why she is living in that moon night world, and much more. With all of that said, I'll be taking my leave.
See you all in the next chapter, young readers!