#meow this might be my purest work here

[todorokiaimee]

Blues In The Night 10. All of You

Previous Chapter | Chapter Song

Aimee couldn’t sleep after Todoroki had left. Lying in her bed she tossed and turned before looking at her alarm clock on her bedside table. 4:00 am. She groaned, finally getting out of bed and walking into her kitchen.  Since she couldn’t sleep anyway, Aimee decided to get a head start on her favorite dessert and sometimes shameless breakfast item: beignets. Taking out a large mixing bowl and all her ingredients, she began to mix yeast, water, milk, sugar, salt, and eggs until they were blended well. As she worked, she felt her body and mind finally relax, her muscle memory kicking in and having a true zen moment late in the night. As she added the flour and shortening, she heard a familiar meow at her feet, Mochi alerting her to his presence. “Hello, pretty kitty. I know, mama is keeping you up huh?”  She sighed as she continued to mix the dough. “I think I might have messed up, Mochi. I’m sending Shoto all kinds of mixed signals. I just don’t want to lose him.” Mochi let out an annoyed meow as he weaved between her legs, earning a small chuckle from the ravenette. “Don’t worry, you won't be replaced, little man. You really should give him a chance though. Prissy pussy isn’t a good look on you.”  She smiled and covered the bowl of dough with plastic wrap before putting it into the fridge to chill and let the yeast rise. Picking up the fat cat with a grunt, she walked back into her bedroom in hopes of catching a few more Z’s before daybreak.

The next morning, Aimee was still pretty restless having not gotten much sleep. She once again returned to the solace of her kitchen, deciding to treat herself to more of favorite comfort foods: gumbo and cornbread. She had a large pot of the seafood stew simmering on her stovetop as she finished up mixing her dough for the cornbread. As she placed the pan into the oven, she heard a knock on her door. I wonder who that could be? Upon opening the door, she was meet with her favorite pair heterochromatic eyes, but this time they held a kind of sadness that looked foreign to her. Panning down, she noticed he had a large bouquet of red and white roses in his hand. “Shoto, this is a surprise.” The hero bowed deeply before speaking.“I wanted to apologize for last night. I pushed you too far physically and took advantage of your situation.” He paused, offering the flowers to her. “These are for you. The florist said the red represents love and white purity. I’m willing to wait for you, even until marriage if that’s what you wish.” Aimee’s heart ached, watching the man she loved. What happened last night was in no way his fault and the thought that he had been worried he had offended her was killing her. She held the flowers in her hands and let out a deep sigh. “Oh, mon cher… They’re beautiful. But you have the wrong idea.” Shoto gave her a confused look although he was greatly relieved to still hear the beloved pet name she had bestowed upon him. He must not have screwed up too much for her to still call him that. Aimee stepped aside as she gestured with her free hand, “Please come in.”

As Aimee lead Shoto into her home and to her kitchen, the warm aroma of spices hit his nose, causing his mouth to water. Upon reaching the kitchen table the pair had a seat on opposite sides as he looked around to see the somewhat messy kitchen, obvious she had been cooking all morning. He was pulled from his thoughts as Aimee took his hand in hers, an apologetic smile on her face as she laid the bouquet down on the table top. “You did nothing wrong last night. You were absolutely perfect, as usual. This was all me,” she paused, taking a deep before continuing. “The truth is… I was embarrassed for you to see me in my Spanx.” Once again, Shoto gave her a puzzled look, having never heard of the word before, “Spanx?” “It’s shapewear. A type of underwear to make me look a little thinner, smooth out my lumps and bumps and rolls. They’re not attractive.”

Shoto hummed, still not fully grasping the concept. If this was all due to a pair of underwear then he didn’t understand what the big deal was. “To be honest, I probably wouldn’t have even looked at your underwear long. I’d be too eager to undress you fully.” Aimee blushed as she bit her lip, her imagination running wild before she shook her head. “Even so… that’s part of the problem. I was also scared of what you’d think of my body with no clothes to hide behind.” The hero rubbed small circles on top of her hand with his thumb as his eyebrows knitted together. “What do you mean, my love?” Aimee sighed, her eyes cast down as she continued to nibble on her bottom lip. In an act of encouragement, Shoto brought her hand up to his lips to softly kiss across her knuckles, his eyes trained on hers. “Well… My body has always been a big deal in my relationships. Men either like my personality only to turn me away because they don’t find my body appealing, or they only want me for my body and curves. Some men just see me as a novelty. They’ve never been with a black woman before. I’m a rare bird of sorts here in Japan. But once they’ve had their taste, they drop me and move on to the next.”

The duel-quirked hero grumbled low in his throat as his lips pulled down into a frown. How dare these men treat his love so poorly. The woman before him was the most beautiful woman he had ever met and deserved the world. The more he thought of her being hurt by these low lives, the deeper his frown became. It wasn’t until Aimee continued speaking that he was brought out of his thoughts. “Shoto, you have been a literal dream come true to me. I couldn’t ask for a more perfect man to love and to love me. And trust me, I want you, in every way. I’m just so afraid that once you see me like that, with nothing to hide behind, you’ll change your mind and think maybe I’m not worthy of your love after all.” She paused, blinking back hot tears. “I just don’t want to be singing my blues in the night.”

Shoto’s heart was breaking as he watched his love crumble before his eyes. If she honestly thought that he would turn her away after seeing her in her purest state, then he was not doing his job as her boyfriend and lover. In fact, Shoto practically worshiped her body. He has had to hold himself back many times as visions of her curves laid bare before him danced in his head. Unable to take anymore, he stood from his seat, gently bringing Aimee up with him. “Come with me.” Shoto lead her by the hand out of the kitchen and into her small bedroom before stopping in front of her full-length mirror. He stood behind her as he stared into her eyes in their reflection, a puzzled look on Aimee’s face. “My apologies, my love. It seems I have failed you. You are the most stunning and unique person I have ever had the pleasure of knowing, let alone loving, and I’m going to show you all the things I love about you until you believe it yourself.” He paused and kissed her temple, his eyes still trained on her reflection. “And I’ll keep reminding you as well.”

Shoto took a single curl between his fingers, a small smile on his face as he released it, watching it bounce back into place. “I love your dark curls. I would have my hands in your hair all the time if I didn’t know better.” Aimee rolled her eyes, a smile pulling at her lips. “I told you, you get a free pass. You can touch my hair whenever you want.” Shoto chuckled lightly as he kissed her cheek. “Noted. I also love your large almond eyes. They’re so expressive and almost childlike. Sweet.” Aimee blushed as she looked down, only to have Shoto lift her chin once again to look back at her reflection. “I love your plump lips. The way they part slightly in your sleep, the way they feel on mine…” Her blush deepened as she suddenly felt warm all over, images of his lips on hers invading her thoughts. She bit her lip as she stared into his eyes through the reflection in the mirror. With a smirk, Shoto brushed his thumb across her bottom lip, releasing it from behind her teeth, “Even the way you bite them when you get flustered or nervous.” Slowly, he slid his large calloused hands down her smooth arms before taking her hands in his, lacing their fingers together. “I love the way your arms wrap around me… The way your small soft hands fit in mine.” Gently, Shoto lifted her right arm to drape around his neck before lightly brushing the back of his hand down her underarm and the side of her chest. “I love your full breasts,” he whispered in her ear before quickly tickling her side, earning a surprised giggle from the ravenette. “Especially the way they jiggle when you laugh.” Continuing to slide his large hands down her body, one came to rest on her stomach and the other on her hip. Watching her eyes for any signs of discomfort, he slid his warm left hand underneath her shirt, to knead at her soft flesh. “I love your tummy and wide hips.  Maybe one day… perhaps they will house and birth our future children…” Shoto whispered into her dark curls, desperately trying to hide his now flushed face, embarrassed by his candid admission.

“Awww, mon cher!” Aimee smiled moving to turn her body to face him, only for Shoto to firmly keep her in place, facing the mirror. “I wasn’t finished.” “Oh, my bad. Please continue.” With a small smirk, Shoto continued to slide his hands further down her body, resting on her plush thighs. “I love your thick thighs and round bottom for…” he paused, quickly pulling her back flush against his body with a grunt. “Obvious reasons.” Aimee squealed from shock, laughing at herself as she covered her face and blush with her hands. With a gentle smile on his lips, Shoto finally turned her around to face him fully, taking her hands from her face to hold them tightly in his. “But even more importantly, I love your quick wit. You can reduce me to a flustered mess in five words or less. Sometimes it drives me crazy but I wouldn’t have any other way.” Aimee rolled her eyes playfully, before looking down once again, embarrassed by all the love and attention Shoto had shown her. Before she could pull away, The hero lifted her chin once more, his steely eyes staring into hers. “Do you want to know what I love and cherish the most about you, my love?” Aimee nodded wordlessly, completely entranced by her beau. “What I love most is your warm and kind soul. You give everyone your all. You go out of your way to make people smile.” Stroking her cheek with his thumb, he wrapped his other arm around her back to hold her flush to him, his eyes never leaving hers. “I love you. All of you. And I’m not going anywhere, for as long as you’ll have me.”

A bright smile grew across her face as she wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him close. “Oh, Shoto.” The two closed the distance with a passionate kiss, their lips moving slowly and skillfully against each other. With her mind at ease, Aimee’s lips parted, allowing Shoto entry as their tongues explored each other. Nothing was rushed, they savored each other and the moment as if they had all the time in the world. “I love you so much, baby,” she whispered against his lips. He held her close as his hands slowly explored her body, kissing her lips softly before pulling away to trail feather light kisses down her neck, “I love you too.” Aimee melted in his arms as he began to gently suck at the delicate skin behind the shell of her ear, her fingers tangling in his hair. She moaned slightly as he kissed the small purple mark, proud of his new artwork on his favorite canvas. Capturing her lips again, they continued to lose themselves in each other, whispering sweet nothings until Aimee’s kitchen timer chirped loudly, startling the pair with a groan.  “Come on baby. Let me feed you,” Aimee smiled, before placing a final kiss to his cheek. Reluctantly Shoto nodded, releasing her from his hold, opting to hold her hand instead.

Aimee lead him back into the kitchen, gesturing for him to have a seat at the table before taking the hot cornbread out of the oven and slicing it into squares. Next, she retrieved two bowls giving them each a generous serving of fresh gumbo, topping it with white rice. She served Shoto the gumbo and cornbread with a smile, before placing her own bowl opposite of him, a pitcher of ice cold water between them. “Bon appetit!” she giggled as she sat down. Shoto looked down at the meal placed before him. It smelled wonderful, full of warm spices. He especially liked the familiar sight of white rice on top of the foreign dish. Taking a spoonful, he took it into his mouth to be met with an explosion of flavors. The fresh shrimp and crab and the spicy flour soup base mingled together perfectly while the rice was a welcome cool. “This is delicious. What’s it called?” “Gumbo!” Aimee said with a bright smile. “It’s my favorite comfort food. It really warms the belly and soul.” Shoto nodded as they continued to eat, picking up his piece of yellow bread next to his bowl, “And this?” “That’s cornbread. It’s a semi-sweet bread made from cornmeal. It’s nice to have to cool down your mouth if you get too much heat from the spicy gumbo. I like it with a little butter.” Shoto watched as Aimee took out a stick of butter from the fridge, spreading a small pad across her piece of cornbread before doing the same himself. She made the dish herself so she must know the best way to eat it. He ate a small piece with a smile, as he hummed. “You really are quite the cook.” Aimee shrugged playfully as she giggled to herself. “Well I love to eat, therefore I guess I had to be a pretty decent cook.”

The pair continued to eat their meal in a quiet conversation, Mochi weaving between their legs under the table, hoping for some dropped scraps. After finishing, Aimee took their plates to the sink before calling over her shoulder. “Any room for dessert?” Shoto quirked an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. If her main course was this good, her dessert must be heavenly. “What’s for dessert?” Aimee smiled, taking out the dough from the fridge she had worked on in the early hours of the morning. “Beignets!” She cheered, heating a pan of boiling hot oil. “I have no idea what those are, but if you’re making them I’m sure they’re wonderful,” Shoto said with a smile as he watched her prepare the dessert. After rolling out the dough and cutting it into squares, she dropped a few into the hot oil, frying it on both sides before setting them out to drain on a paper towel. Next, she topped them with powdered sugar and a light drizzle of honey. “Careful, they’re hot,” Aimee offered them to her beau as he brought the plate back to the kitchen table, Aimee following close behind. As the two took their first bites, Aimee giggled watching Shoto’s eyes widen with delight, “Good, huh?” He nodded as he covered his mouth filled with the southern doughnut. “Everything was delicious, but these are easily my favorite.”

Aimee smiled as she finished her dessert, licking the remaining powdered sugar from her fingertips, “I’ll pack you up some of everything then. That way you can take a nice hearty lunch with you to work tomorrow.” Shoto shook his head with a polite smile, “You don’t have to that, beautiful. You should enjoy the fruits of your labor yourself. I’ve already imposed enough.” Aimee stood from her seat, ignoring his protest, taking out a few containers of tubberware. “Mon cher, now that you’re with me, there is one thing you will never be and that’s hungry.” Shoto watched on as she continued to fill the containers with food. “Your love language is giving gifts and experiences I otherwise would never have the chance to enjoy. My love language is cooking. I love cooking, but I love cooking even more for the people I love.” Putting the containers of food into a bag for him, she placed it in front of him on the table. The look on her face said it was not a option to refuse. “Take it, I insist.”

Shoto chuckled lightly, haven clearly been defeated, “Very well. But I also enjoy a nice cuddle, for the record.” He smirked, earning a playful eye roll from the dark-skinned beauty. “Who doesn’t enjoy a nice cuddle? But I have to say I’m quite partial to yours as well.”

Picking up the rose bouquet off the table, Aimee found a vase, filling it with water before placing it inside. “Thank you again for the flowers. They remind me of you.” Shoto quirked a red brow, confused by what she meant. Seeing his puzzled look, Aimee giggled as she placed the vase in the center of her kitchen table. “Red and white? You match,” She smiled as she gently brushed his peppermint locks out of his face. A pink blush dusted across Shoto’s cheeks as he nervously rubbed the back of his neck. “Ah, I didn’t even realize,” he mumbled. “I am glad you like them though.”

Shoto watched her carefully as she began to clean up the dishes. As he rose to help her, he cautiously posed a probing question since their earlier heart to heart, “Just to clarify, you’re... not a virgin?” Aimee blushed as she continued to wash the dishes, unable to meet his eyes. “No baby. Is that a problem?” Shoto shook his head quickly, his own blush deepening. “No, not at all. Honestly, I’d be surprised if you were, you’re so beautiful inside and out.” He paused, a low grumble in his throat. “Although I am jealous of the bastards that got to be intimate with my love before me.” A light scoff left Aimee’s lips as she began to dry the dishes, “If it makes you feel any better, I can count my experiences on one hand, most of them lackluster.” The duel quirked hero hummed, not exactly happy with the new information for a number of reasons, “Well, if I do ever have the honor to be with you intimately, it will be my personal mission to leave you breathless and beyond satisfied,” He smirked to himself as he shamelessly looked her up and down. “Maybe even a little sore.” Aimee blushed deeply as she fought to suppress a giggle. “Ooo Shoto! You kiss your mother with that mouth?” Shoto stopped his cleaning, stunned by a revelation.

My mother.

Taking her hand, Shoto lead Aimee back to the kitchen table, a puzzled look on her face, “Everything ok baby?” “Aimee… I just realized you have told me so much about your past, even though it’s uncomfortable for you. It’s only right that I do the same.” She nodded, giving his hand a supportive squeeze. With a sigh, Todoroki told her all about this traumatic childhood. He told her about his parent’s quirk marriage. About his father’s cruel training sessions and aspirations for him. About how his own mother gave him his red scar.  About how he struggled to accept his left side. Even about the disappearance of his older brother Touya.

Aimee sat in silence, her eyebrows knitted together and her lips turned down in a frown. She opened her mouth only to close it many times, unable to find the words. Shoto finally sighed, rubbing circles on her hand in his, “Please do not think ill of my mother. She was driven to do what she did and has since gotten help.” Aimee shook her head before crossing her arms in a huff, “It’s not your mother I’m upset about. I understand she was a victim. It’s your father that sounds like a flaming bag of shit.” A light chuckle left Shoto’s lips as he sat back in his chair, “Well you’re not wrong, but he has owned up to his mistakes and is trying his best to do right by his family now at least.” Sucking her teeth with a pout, Aimee reluctantly nodded. “I mean, I guess. Once I meet him I’ll try to not give him the stink eye for you. I make no promises, though.”

Shoto chuckled as his cellphone pinged in his pocket, “Don’t hurt yourself, all that sass might bubble over with no outlet.” Dodging Aimee’s playful smack, he looked at the calendar alert on his phone. Humming to himself, he quirked a brow. “That day may come sooner than you think.” “Huh?” Aimee questioned. “Just keep next Saturday open.” “I’m meeting your father next Saturday?!” she panicked, her eyes widening as she watched her boyfriend closely, putting his phone back in his pocket. “You might, or you might not. But either way, I would like to monopolize your time again if that’s alright with you, my love.” Aimee’s expression softened as she heard her own favorite pet name. “I’d spend every day with you if I could.” Shoto smiled as he took her hand once more, giving it a soft kiss. “Good. Also, would you mind giving me Hatsume’s phone number? I have some sidekicks that are in the market for some support items.” “Sure thing, I’ll text it to you now,” she said, pulling out her own cell phone from her back pocket. “Maybe then she’ll stay out of our hair for a while.”

After hearing the ping of his cell phone, Shoto nodded, watching Aimee stifle a yawn. He knew she had been cooking all morning, it must be finally catching up to her. “Why don’t you go lay down on the couch and put on a movie,” he said standing up from his seat, pulling her up with him. “I’ll finish putting away the dishes. I’ll join you in a moment.” The ravenette nodded, clearly needing a rest, as she retreated to the living room, “Don’t take too long, baby.”

After finishing his task, Shoto walked into the living room to see Aimee laying on her back on the couch, her arms opened wide to him. “Get in here, cuddle bug!” she said sleepily, earning a smirk from the hero. “As you wish.” Carefully, he draped his body on top of hers, laying between her legs to rest his head on her full breasts. He hummed softly as he wrapped his arms around her waist as Aimee gently ran her fingers through his hair. This just might be his new favorite cuddling position. The couple watched the movie in a comfortable silence until Aimee’s breathing became slower and deeper, her tell-tale hums leaving her lips. Shoto slowly lifted his head to see that she was out like a light, glad that she was finally getting some rest. Careful not to wake her, he pulled out his phone from his back pants pocket, texting the new number he was given.

Shoto: Hatsume, this is Todoroki Shoto.

Shoto: I have a favor to ask.

Chapter 11

#blues in the night #chapter 10 #ch 10 #all of you #todoroki #todoroki shoto #todoroki shouto #shoto todoroki #shouto todoroki #todoroki x reader #todoroki shoto x reader #todoroki shouto x reader #shoto todoroki x reader #shouto todoroki x reader #todoroki x oc #todoroki x original character #todoroki x faurie #aimee faurie #black reader #chubby reader #plus size reader #bnha imagines #bnha oc #bnha original character #bnha writings #bnha writing blog #bnha romance #bnha fluff

[razieltwelve]

The Return (RWBY AU Snippet)

Note: This is set in the same AU as Night and Day, Emissary, I Am Become Death, Thunder and Paperwork, Ice and Fire, Apocalypse, Origin, and The Day Breaks.

Blake, goddess of shadows, assassins, cats, saboteurs, and a great many other things, had finally managed to get her paws on a divine tuna, only to find herself stuck on another world - minus her tuna. After spending a good ten minutes yowling about her misfortune, she finally got around to examining her surroundings.

The world she was stuck on didn’t seem too bad. There were mortals on it, and there was tuna too. However, she had already sensed the presence of several unfamiliar gods, as well creatures that should not be anywhere near the mortal world. Oh well, she’d talk to the other gods later, and she’d smite those creature’s once she’d had something to eat. Right now, she was hungry, and there was a fish market just down the road.

It only took her a minute or two to secure a nice, juicy tuna, and she quickly found a secluded alleyway to enjoy her treat. Since she was in such a good mood - the tuna looked and smelled delicious - she even gave some to a couple of stray kittens. They were looking a little scrawny, and it wasn’t like she could starve to death.

Some people might have wondered why such a mighty goddess spent so much time as a cat, but it was all about responsibility. Because of the broad range of areas her duties covered, she was always busy. There was nothing better than taking a holiday, and there was no holiday lazier and less stressful than spending time as a cat. If only Yang, that blonde mortal, had been brought to this world. She’d been so good at giving belly rubs, and she always bought the best tuna.

And speaking of tuna… Blake turned back to her pilfered tuna and grinned toothily. It was time to enjoy!

Alas, she hadn’t even taken a bite out of her tuna before she was interrupted.

“You there. Reveal yourself.”

Blake stared at the goddess standing at the entrance to the alleyway. The kittens had wisely retreated with their own tuna, and Blake was sorely tempted to do the same. What were the odds? They had a divine version of Weiss here too, and from the looks of her, she was probably in charge of bureaucracy too. At least it wasn’t the Weiss from her world. She owed that Weiss several decades of paperwork. However, this Weiss had an even crabbier expression than the Weiss she was used to, which did not bode well.

“Meow.”

Blake turned back to her tuna and did her best to act like an ordinary cat. Maybe this Weiss would just go away, leaving her to enjoy her tuna. Sadly, she was not that lucky. Tendrils of glowing light surrounded her, forming chains woven out of the words of divine law. Blake found herself suspended in mid-air with her tuna far out of her reach. Her eye twitched, and she gave Weiss a look of extreme feline displeasure.

“Meow.” Blake glared. “Meow.”

“Don’t ‘meow’ me, you miscreant. I know you’re a god. Reveal yourself. I have need of your skills.”

Contrary to her lazy nature, Blake was actually immensely powerful. Most of the time, she let the Weiss of her world boss her around because Weiss actually did need help a lot of the time and because, despite their arguments, they really were friends. This Weiss, however, was not her friend, and Blake did not appreciate being called a miscreant.

One of Blake’s less well-known titles, which just so happened to be one of the most important ones she had, was the goddess of law-breakers. In particular, as the goddess of law-breakers, the laws that bound other gods did not have such an easy time binding her. It wasn’t the flashiest ability, but against gods whose powers relied on rules and systems to work? 

Heh. It was just about the most broken ability in existence.

Shadows erupted from her body, and Blake’s feline form gave way to her true form, a goddess clothed in darkness and wreathed in ribbons of purest night. The chains binding her shattered, and she flipped back to stand on top of a street light. A moment later, the street light failed, plunging the alley into darkness.

“What…?” Weiss frowned. “How did you do that?”

“Hah!” Blake smirked. “Did you really think bossing me around would be that easy? Now… who are you and what do you want?” She paused and then added, “And do you have more tuna?”

Weiss grimaced. “I am Weiss, Goddess of Bureaucracy. As for what I want…” her eyes narrowed ominously. “Something is coming. I can sense it. The barriers around this world are failing. I don't know exactly what is causing it, but it won’t be long before it reveals itself. We have days at the most, possibly only hours. As a fellow god, I need your help to deal with this threat. I have already sent one of my… servants to seek out the other gods.” She sighed. “And, yes, I can acquire more tuna if that is what it costs for you to cooperate.”

“Is that so?” Blake rubbed her chin thoughtfully. “But you still haven’t explained why I should help you.”

“Do you want to go home?” Weiss asked. “I know you’re not from here. Neither am I. In fact, I doubt any of the gods I’ve sensed are from here. However, if I can gain the aid of one of the other gods, I may be able to return all of us to our original worlds.”

“Oh?”

Weiss smiled thinly. “It can be difficult to sense what powers a god has. For instance, I’m not sure of exactly what you’re capable of. But some gods… some gods… you can sense what they are easily. One of the other gods is Death. With her power and my ability to shape and command the laws that govern Creation, I should be able to return all of us home… once the threat here has been dealt with.”

Blake waved one hand dismissively. “As you said, this isn’t our world. Why are you so concerned about defending it?”

Weiss folded her arms across her chest. “Can’t you feel it? This world is special. Its soul… there is something familiar about it, something I can’t quite place. But my instincts tell me that it matters.”

Blake frowned and reached out with her senses. She hadn’t paid much attention to it at the time, but perhaps she should have. All worlds had souls, some more impressive than others. This world… she blinked slowly. Its soul was immense, like staring into the sun. “Hmm… you’re right.”

“I have already located the nexus where this world’s soul can be accessed, and I have begun fortifying it in anticipation of an attack. But you know that threat I mentioned? I believe it is a being of divine origin… but one that can wield the power of the Void.”

“Impossible,” Blake replied. “No god can wield the power of the Void. It is anathema to us all.”

“And yet that is what I sensed,” Weiss replied. “Such a being cannot be allowed to roam the Many Worlds unchallenged. It is better to face it here than to face it in our worlds.”

“You might have a point there,” Blake conceded. “Fine. I’ll meet with the other gods, and I’ll listen to more of what you have to say. But you owe me tuna.”

X     X     X

Death’s frown deepened as she examined the husk of what had once been Salem of Remnant. There was no mistaking the power emanating from the husk. It belonged to the Salem of her world, but it was different, still divine in origin but also filled with the power of the Void. That should have been impossible.

“So… how bad is it?” Yang asked.

Death glanced at the blonde. “What makes you think it’s bad?”

Yang grimaced. “This is the first time I’ve seen you look worried, and considering who and what you are… yeah. You being worried makes me super worried.”

“Do you want the truth?” Death asked. Yang and the others nodded. “The apocalypse is at hand. Given who I think we’re dealing with, we are all facing complete obliteration.”

“…” Yang’s mouth opened and closed several times. “You know… I was kind of hoping you wouldn’t say that.”

“Whom are we dealing with?” Ruby asked.

Death’s lips firmed into a thin line. “The Salem of my world. She was… insane. She killed many gods before I was finally able to destroy her, or so I thought. If she has returned with the power of the Void at her command, it is entirely possible that she has grown strong enough that even I can no longer defeat her.”

Day flared, a corona of searing brightness enveloping her. “You will not face her alone. She will burn for her transgressions.”

“Yeah,” Goddess Nora added, hefting her hammer. “What she said.”

“If only it were that simple,” Death scowled. “The Salem I was faced was more powerful than almost any other god. That was why I had to be the one to strike her down. The power of the Void… it would give her a way of withstanding my power. She would not be invincible, but she would be far, far, far beyond the god I defeated.”

“But if you all team up, you could take her out, right?” Yang asked.

“Perhaps. But her presence here is most likely not merely a matter of revenge.” Death gestured around them. “Worlds have souls. Remnant’s soul is powerful indeed.” Her gaze grew clouded. “I have… memories, bits and pieces of a time before time, a time where I was… someone or something else. I was… more than I am now.”

“More than Death?” Day murmured. “Is such a thing possible?”

“I do not know,” Death replied. “But there were always rumours, stories, of how gods could devour the soul of a world for power. I always dismissed them as fanciful tales. Certainly, I never saw anything that could suggest it was possible. Yet if Salem has gained the power of the Void, who is to say what she can do? And with the soul of a world like Remnant…”

“Who knows how strong she’d get?” Goddess Nora asked. She smirked. “Oh… this is going to be one hell of a fight.”

“So how do we stop her?” Weiss asked. “There has to be some way, right?”

“There are two ways to access the soul of a world. In the mortal realm - the physical world - there is a location, a place that leads to it. Salem will most likely dispatch an army of what you call Grimm and other monstrosities to assault that location.” Death paused. “I have a rough idea of where that place is, and someone has begun to fortify it with divine power.”

“That’s good, right?” Yang asked.

“It’s not bad. I don’t know if the god responsible is on our side, but they are definitely not on Salem’s.” Death’s brows furrowed. “The second method is to access the soul of a world through what would normally be called the divine realm. Since Remnant no longer has gods on it, there will be no one there to defend it. Since the only ones who can enter the divine realm are gods, it will be up to me and the others to stop Salem from reaching her goal that way.”

“So there’s two ways she can win?” Yang shook her head. “And while we’re under siege from who knows how many monsters, you and the other gods are going to be somewhere else?”

“Unfortunately, that is the most likely scenario. You cannot come with us to the divine realm, and someone must be there to stop Salem. You, however, can defend the location in the mortal realm. A victory in either scenario will likely result in the complete destruction of your world and in her gaining even more power.”

“Okay…” Ruby looked queasy. “Is there any good news for us?”

“Perhaps.” Death studied Ruby thoughtfully. “I would have preferred to avoid doing this, but it may be unavoidable now. I shall share some of my power with you.”

Ruby stared. “You can do that?”

“Yes. You are this world���s version of me. We are connected. I can only give you the barest sliver of my power, but it will be of immense help to you in battle.” Death glanced at Day and Goddess Nora. “I would suggest you do the same for your counterparts as well.”

Death would have said more, but a portal appeared. A dark-haired woman tumbled out of it.

“Mom?” Yang blurted.

Raven shambled onto her feet. “I… bring word from Weiss, Goddess of Bureaucracy.”

Death raised one eyebrow. “Interesting. Continue.”

X     X     X

Bureaucracy studied the other gods intently. The storm goddess was almost painfully obvious in her intentions. She wanted a fight, and a good one. The Goddess of the Day was also fairly straightforward to understand, albeit immensely powerful. To Bureaucracy’s senses, she shone like a sun of divine power.

And then there was Death.

Just being near her made Bureaucracy shiver. They were connected in a distant sort of way, and Bureaucracy did not miss the way the mortal Ruby and mortal Weiss stayed near each other. Fascinating. Some connections truly did transcend worlds, so it was perhaps not surprising the Ruby of her world had become her emissary. Hopefully, Fred, her faithful follower, was continuing the mortal’s training during her absence.

“Welcome,” Bureaucracy said. “We have a problem to discuss.”

“Yes.” Death extended one hand. A memory formed in the air above her palm, a crystallisation of her thoughts. It was a technique gods could use to share information more easily. “I suggest you all look into this memory of mine. I know who we face, at least, I knew her.”

Bureaucracy plunged into the memory. When she emerged from it, she was not pleased.

“I stand corrected,” Bureaucracy said. “We have a very big problem to discuss.” She sighed. “At least I’ve already begun to fortify this area. If you’re right, she’ll come here as soon as she’s ready to launch her assault.”

“Yes.” Death glanced at their mortal counterparts. “I need you to help us empower our mortal counterparts. Your power set should make that process easier. The quicker you can do it, the better. We don’t have much…” Death trailed off. “Time.”

Vast cracks had appeared in the sky above them. The eerie darkness of the Void began to pour in through tears in reality.

Death glared. “She’s here.”

And Salem was.

X     X     X

Ruby gaped at the goddess that had appeared in the sky above them. So that was the Salem that Death had tried to kill. She was… beautiful in a terrible way, her visage so perfect that it looked utterly inhuman, even in comparison to the other gods. Salem’s eyes were pools of sapphire light, but within them lurked an endless, unfathomable emptiness.

“Don’t stare too closely at her,” Death warned. “The power of the Void fills her. To look upon her will drive you mad.” She nodded at Bureaucracy. “Hurry. We don’t have much time.”

Black rain began to fall through the cracks in reality, and each drop that fell birthed Grimm and other monsters. There were so many of them. Too many. Ruby swallowed thickly. There was no way they were going to be able to fight off this many Grimm.

“Hello.” Salem smiled down at Death. She spread her arms in greeting, and the world trembled. “How nice to see you again.”

X     X     X

Author’s Notes

In some worlds, the heroes get time to prepare and plan. Salem is not an idiot. She is not going to give them the time they need to come up with a unified and thorough response. She has the advantage, and she’s going to push it as far as she can.

But don’t count our heroes out yet. They just might have a few tricks up their sleeve.

You can find me on fanfiction.net, AO3, and Amazon.

#rwby #fanfiction #ruby rose #weiss schnee #yang xiao long #blake belladonna #salem

[mysmeshc]

i really like the way you write your hcs ahh!! could you do one where the RFA get jealous over MC with another RFA member or a stranger? thank you so much!!

oh yeyeyeye mysme hc is back bbyYoosung:-Yoosungs jealousy can manifest itself in many ways- sometimes he gets sad, insecure, and whiny- but other times- oh l o r d other times- he gets pissed- like WHO in their right MIND would hit on you while he’s right there??- You and Yoosung has been walking around outside that afternoon bc you felt he needed a break from his studies. - Which he did NOT protest. - but what he DID protest was this random guy comin up to u as if you had a sign around your neck saying “Please flirt with me i’m single”.- “Excuse me Miss do you know the way to the nearest coffee shop?” - okay maybe it was innocent after all, just a guy asking directions-- “-and maybe after you show me I could buy you a cup?”- oh NO U DID N O T- “Well I can’t-“- No bby Yoosung’s got this. - Taking the hand that was currently intertwined with yours he pulled it up, nearly whacking the other guy in the face. - “Unless you plan on buying me one I. Don’t. Think. So.”- You were shooketh- Glancing up at the guy you shrugged and smiled. “I mean he’s right...”- He just huffed and walked away, shoving his hands into his pocket. - You smiled at your protective bf. - “Awe babe, you were so tough back there” you cooed, only earning a red face in response. Zen- ALL MEN ARE WOLVES, MC!!! W O L V E S- This guy gets jealous over everything. - I mean, e v e r y t h i n g. - “Excuse me ma’am, might I take your coat?”- “HEY BUDDY BACK OFF!”- “. . . Zen that’s his job.”- Most is the time Zen was good at keeping his cool. - Being an actor or what not. - But there was one man who, regardless of what he’s doing, will push his buttons. - Our beloved Mr. Trust Fund Kid- So when Zen found out you were going over to his place a l o n e to discuss the party he interjected immediately. - “Nope. No way MC. I’m not gonna sit here and watch that- that- ... corrupted guy corrupt you!!” - You gave your boy a “ur stupid and ya i still love u but wtf”- “Zen, first off, your insults are awful, and Second off, it’s Jumin. Unless I’m covered in fur and meowing when I get there he won’t be interested in me in the slightest-“- “ACHOO!! Don’t underestimate him, MC! He’s a Man!!! They only want one thing-“- “Fine. Come with me then. But be warned that I will make sure Elizabeth is on my lap at all times...”- “DEAL!”- “Ah, hello MC-. . . and company-“- “AAAACHOO! Hey Trust fu- fuhuhuhuuAACHOO!”- Jumin looked unimpressed but not shocked by any means. - “Ah, Zen, here to make sure I don’t steal MC for myself?” - “Shut the fuck up you Entitled Asshole...” Zen rubbed his nose before walking in. - The meeting went well, other than the every 2 minute interruption of Zen’s sneezing.- Jumin bid you off and you two returned home where Zen finally gained the ability to breathe through his nostrils again. - “See, MC? Wolves. All of them. Good thing I was there though!” Zen called as he walked off to the shower. - You loved him, but next time you go over to Jumin’s you’re just gonna lie about it...Jaehee- It is difficult to get Jaehee jealous bc she is so. oblivious. - literally everything you do goes straight over her head. - She’s incredibly book smart, but when it comes to romance, she’s a lil clueless. - That is until you two go out to dinner and a random guy starts hitting on the both of you because he thought the two of you were out as “just friends”.- “Hey ladies, you both are looking lovely tonight. Could I buy you a drink please?”- “No thank you.” Jaehee was quick to respond, but the guy didn’t get the hint. - “Okay, I get it, what about you, sweetheart?” - oh Jaehee was Salty. - “Can’t you see we’re on a date?!” Jaehee stood out of her chair, causing you to gasp and the man’s eyes to go wide. - “Like. . . Oh god. I’m so sorry. Please, enjoy the rest of your evening.” The man ran off with his tail tucked between his legs. - “Jaehee. . . I-I. . . Wow.”- You were shocked and amazed by your beautiful girlfriend. - “Now, how about I buy you a drink?”- omfg. Jumin- Despite Jumin’s confidence, he gets jealous relatively easily. - And how he handles it definitely depends on the person. - He knows to ignore Zen’s attempts at flirting because of his reputation and career. - Zen isn’t actually into MC. - The stranger at dinner, though, is a completely different story. - You two were at a nice restaurant, enjoying each other’s company, when Jumin excused himself to go use the restroom. - As soon as Jumin was out of eyesight, the waiter brought you a glass of wine. - Before you could protest, seeing as you hadn’t ordered it, the waiter explained it was from the older gentleman at the bar, pointing to wear a man with a nice tuxedo and cigar, unlit, resided. - You gave a thankful wave, which he misconstrued as an invitation to talk. - “Sorry if I’m intruding, sweetheart, but I couldn’t help but notice how beautiful you are, and me, being set in my old-ways, thought it only appropriate to buy you a drink.” He smiled, going to light his cigar. - “Oh, well, that’s very kind sir, and I do appreciate it, but I don’t think you’re allowed to smoke inside...” You cringed as he took a rather large inhale before blowing it above your head. -“Don’t worry, darling, I can do whatever I want in my restaurant.” He took it out of his mouth to tap off some of the excess ash onto a plate used for bread. - You began to cough, the smell making you gag slightly. - “So, whatdya say we get out of here and I show you the town, eh? I’ll buy you anything that precious lil’ heart of yours desires...” He reached for your hand, grabbing it and placing a gentle kiss on the knuckles. - “I very much appreciate the invite but my date will be back very soon and he won’t be happy to see you in his seat...” You warned, looking around to see where the hell your boyfriend had disappeared to-- “Sorry I made you wait MC, I ran into-“ Jumin had been messing with his cuff link but stopped dead in his tracks when he saw the look of uncomfort on your face as you motioned towards the man sitting across from you. - Straightening his tie, he cleared his throat to get the man’s attention. - The intruder swiveled in his seat, “Can I help you-“- oh fuck- is that?- “M-Mr. Han? What a pleasure it is to meet you! Oh I’ve heard so much about you and- Oh gosh, how rude of me, Jumin, please meet my lovely plus-one! Isn’t she cute in that dress of hers? Can’t wait ‘till I give her the tour of my mansion if you know what I’m saying!” The man motioned to you and you froze. - You saw Jumin’s eyes go red as his eyebrow twitched and you knew you had to intervene soon before Jumin loses his cool. - “Jumin, wait-“- “Excuse me, young lady, but that is Mr. Han to you! I apologize, Mr. Han, you know how women can be.” he laughed as if Jumin were part of this inside joke. - “May I speak to you, in private?” Jumin smiled, grabbing the man’s shoulder just a bit too tight. The man smiled like a giddy 5 year old. “Of course, Mr. Han! Be right back darling, the men must talk now.” He pretended to be cool as he walked by. You looked up at Jumin and you saw him mouth ‘wait in the car’ as the two walked off. - After sitting there for 45 minutes and filling in Driver Kim on everything that has happened, he chuckled knowingly as Jumin stepped in. - “... So? What happened? Did you call him out? Get free dinner?” You immediately question your boyfriend as he wrapped his arm around you. - “Don’t worry, dear, I took care of everything.” Jumin wrapped his arm around you and asked Driver Kim to take you both home. - The next day you saw in the news “Owner of local 5-Star Restaurant, Mr. Wae, Arrested on charges of sexual assault, meanwhile, C&R Int. has bought the building and places it under new management.”- You’re eye twitched. - “. . . juMIN HAN I SWEAR TO GOD-“707- Your boyfriend was in a grumpy mood because he ran out of PHD Pepper and he refused to drink anything else. - “Seven can you please just drink some water??”- “No can do, MC. My body is a temple and I only fill it with the purest of ingredients...”- “.... sEVEN-“- So, in order to make sure he didn’t DIE, you took him to a local fast food restaurant that you called ahead and made sure they had both HBC and PHD. - “Seven will you please just come inside with me?” He parked the car and looked over at you, groaning. - “But MC~ I drove ALL the way here!!!” He whined abd you gave up. - “Fine, I’ll be right back out, but don’t blame me if I get you Diet PHD instead of regular.” You smirked.- “You wouldn’t....”- “You’re right... I wouldn’t without also getting you BAKED HBC!!” You laughed maniacally, Seven holding back tears. - “You monster...”- Needless to say, he went inside with you, but got you two a table while you ordered. - “Hi may I please have 2 orders of the Number 5, both large, and can I substitute all the fries for HBC?” you asked the guy working the counter. - He chuckled lightly and nodded, entering in your order. - “Are you the lady that called in earlier?” He asked, making you blush in embarrassment. - “Oh, ya, uh, I guess I just really like them?” You lied, knowing Seven would get salty if you brought him into this. - “Ah, I think it’s cute. Besides, I like a girl who can eat.” He winked. - Seven’s ears perked up at this, your awkward laugh making him chuckle. - “Ah, thank you, but I-“- “Your total is 13.48” He cut you off, and you reached into your pocket and handed him a $20. - “Actually, for you it’s free.” The guy smiled. - “Oh no, I couldn’t possibly-“- “Babe! You’re turning down free food?” Seven had popped up behind you, wrapping his arms around you.- “S-Seven, not now... I’m ordering food.” You laughed, knowing the exact reason your boyfriend all the sudden got affectionate. - “I-I... uh... here.” He shoved the bags of food forward, you grabbing the drink cups and filling them up with soda. - “Thank you! And by the way, you’re not really my girlfriends type, but you are mine.” Seven winked and handed the man his number. - You came back and noticed the guy blushing, and you groaned, dragging him out of the store. - “I swear to god were you being gay again??”- “As HELL lololol”