#tcse au chapter 12

[scarletroseofrwby]

TCSE AU Chapter 12:

Waking up early was something Ruby was never a fan of. Especially when the freezing temps of winter arrive. Ruby woke up with her blankets scrunched up at her toes, leaving the rest of her exposed to the cold air in the room. It was still pitch black, no light in anywhere in the room other than a slight red hue. She checked the clock down below on the bookcase, the red numbers almost too dull to be legible. They really needed to change the batteries.

“It’s only 2? Then why on Remnant did I wake up so early?” she mumbled to herself.

Grabbing the blankets at her feet, she pulled them over her body. The sheets were freezing cold, causing Ruby to shiver furiously. It didn’t take long for her to warm up, her semblance being able to speed up the process. However, she couldn’t go back to sleep. Try as she might, her mind was wide awake.

There was no use in trying, so she might as well plan out the day. Glynda had announced a few days ago that the newbies would join their sparring class today. Ruby wished she’d go against Neptune to teach him a lesson. But what are the odds of that happening?

Speaking of Neptune, she was glad she now knew the location of his living quarters. The dance was one day away, the plan her friends had come up with would soon be put into action. Jaune and Pyrrha were assigned to watch the dance. Ren and Nora would watch above the nearest street to Beacon. Blake and Sun would watch the apartment complex entrance. Yang was assigned to keep Ruby company until it was time to go.

She wasn’t sure how it was to go down, especially since she didn’t make the plan—which she was very used to doing. There was one thing that really stuck in Ruby’s mind however, a word of advice Sun had told her after their plan was devised.

“You’re gonna have to wait it out. Go in too early and Weiss might not trust you the way she did.”

She understood this clearly. If she had gone with Neptune doing absolutely nothing, Weiss would inevitably take Neptune’s side and most likely never end up with her. Because the dance pushed curfew back to 10:30, Ruby would have to wait until after that. Weiss always knows about curfew, never staying out even one second after it hits. So if things go wrong that night, everyone would know immediately.

Or at least those who helped Ruby.

Suddenly, she felt waves of drowsiness come to rescue her. Her eyes felt droopy, slowly closing all by themselves. Her mind was now calmer, soon there was absolutely nothing to think about. And just like that, she had fallen asleep.

————

When the alarm started going off, Ruby sat up, stretching her arms and legs. She felt quite refreshed, although still a little sleepy. She had just woken up, the sleep had not yet been shaken off. Lifting the white privacy blanket that covered her bed, she jumped down below, landing in the same spot she had always been landing on. She remembered during the first few days of Beacon, she would nearly land on Weiss because of their lack of communication. Both of them had learned which side would be occupied during wake up hour. Weiss would scoot to her left, closer to the bookcase, while Ruby would land on the right, closer to their desks on the wall.

As her feet touched the ground, she immediately heard the groans of her sister, who absolutelt hated mornings.

“Right on que,” Ruby said quietly. She thought no one else had heard it until she noticed Blake’s smile.

“You’re most definitely right about that, Ruby.”

The four girls began their morning routine, Ruby taking the first shower today. The other three ironed their uniforms, ironing Ruby’s in the process.

Within a few more minutes, the young leader was out of the bathroom with a towel to cover her body. Her hair was still slightly wet, but shook her head like a dog to dry it. Weiss entered the bathroom next, Blake to be the following.

About half an hour later, the team of huntresses were ready for class. Grimm Biology with Professor Port, one of the worst professors in Beacon. Although there were important lessons in his stories on encountering Grimm, he merely spoke of himself and how he always barely escaped with a toothbrush and a stick for his weapons. None of the students bought it, for obvious reasons, but that didn’t stop him.

Sparring class would come after that. Ruby was excited for that, ready to show the newbies the true Ruby Rose that the whole world has apparently been rumoring about.

“So are we all ready to go? Weapons sharpened and such?” Ruby asked, repeating the same question since the beginning of Beacon.

They all replied with a hasty ‘yes ma’am’ and proceeded to their first class of the day. Of course they’d have to have their breakfast first. Team JNPR had decided to join them, exchanging morning greetings amongst each other. Ruby was positive this day would be a good one until—

“Hey Snow Angel.”

Ruby immediately felt disturbed as she watched the blue-headed dumbass snaked his arm around Weiss’ waist. Yang rubbed Ruby’s shoulders as if she was preparing Ruby for a fight.

“You’ll get your chance, Tiger. Just take it easy for now.”

With a sigh, she knew her sister was right. She shouldn’t let these emotions out. Not just yet anyway.

“What am I supposed to do about them then? I hate seeing him. Absolutely hate it.” Ruby said, crossing her arms.

“Hmmm...I guess you could keep thinking he’s an ass. Bottle up the feelings and save it for him. That’s what I tend to do.” Yang replied.

“But i don’t just think he’s an ass. He is an ass.”

“Valid. But isn’t that just another reason to save the emotions? Let him have it when he deserves it?”

Blake tapped Ruby’s shoulder, the younger girl turning her head to meet the gaze of her book-loving friend. “I suggest proving your point without exposing yourself. Do it subtly.”

“How would I do that?”

“You’ve seen that one movie, right? I can’t remember the name, but it was about a dad who wanted to see his kids but had to dress up as their nanny?”

Yang snapped her fingers as a sign of recognition. “Oh, I know what you’re talking about! Gosh, I don’t remember the name either, but Ruby and I have most definitely seen it.”

“Great. So you remember that one scene where he throws a lime at the boyfriend’s head? Do something like that and play it out.” If there was one thing Blake enjoyed doing other than reading, it would be helping Ruby. She saw Ruby as the younger sister she never had, wanting to love and cherish her like an older sister would. But of course she’d be more mature than Yang while doing so.

“I think it’s a great idea!” Yang said with a grin. “He won’t have a clue, especially with your sneakiness.”

Ruby thought about what Blake had recommended. She was great at lying if she did say so herself. She’s hidden the real burden of the silver eye thing from Yang for ages, but then again, Yang was pretty gullible. Regardless, there was no harm in trying. No harm to herself at least.

Now that they were out of the dorm building, they were out on the paved area of Beacon. Blake reaches down to grab a small rock, handing it to Ruby with a nod.

Raising her arm and bringing it back, she readied herself and took a deep breath, something she always did when she prepared to take a shot with her sniper. Her arm followed through, the rock now released and hurtling towards Neptune’s head.

The rock hit its intended destination, the blue-head turning around while the back of his head. Ruby quickly looked for someone to blame, immediately turning to Yang.

“Yang, why would you throw that? Apologize to Neptune!”

Neptune shook his head and faced forward. Clearly he didn’t buy it, and Ruby could tell. But that didn’t bother her. She hit him in the head, which was all she cared for. Weiss turned her head around shortly after Neptune had turned his, glaring at the three girls behind her.

Yang sighed, her shoulders slumping as she held her sibling’s shoulder. “Whelp, you’re a lost cause. Good luck with that.”

“What do you mean good luck with that? You’re supposed to help me!”

“You’re acting is still as bad as Little Red Riding Hood. You’re trying too hard.”

“Hey, I thought we were never to speak of that again!”

Blake let out a little giggle. The sisters placed their attention on the giggling Faunus.

“Blake? I’ve never heard you laugh before,” Ruby pointed out. “Did we do something wrong?”

The bowed girl continued to laugh. “No, you did nothing wrong. I just thought that it was completely like you to be Little Red Riding Hood.”

Ruby groaned in annoyance, hitting her sister in dread. “Yaaaaang, look what you made her do! I’ll never live without teasing thanks to you!”

“Sorry Sis, that’s what older sisters do!” Yang ruffled Ruby’s hair playfully, eliciting another groan.

Before long, the two teams and Neptune were at the mess hall, getting their trays of food and claiming their seats. Ruby used to enjoy eating with her friends, but she absolutely abhorred it. Her friends had noticed and also felt uncomfortable. It wasn’t the food, the meals weren’t that bad. They were decent and provided a sufficient amount of nutrients. Yang or Ren’s cooking was better.

But meals were no longer enjoyable with Neptune around. Weiss kept gushing over him, only sat with him, and refused to look st anyone that wasn’t him. Ruby truly hated this, her hatred for Neptune burning stronger each minute.

Yang rubbed her sister’s shoulder. “Don’t think about it too much, Rubes. You’ll get your victory.”

Ruby have a small smile as she took a bite of her cookie. She will have her victory. Patience was the key to that.

Within about fifteen minutes, the two teams were off to their first class. Ruby had taken her usual seat, Blake and Yang to her right. Typically, Weiss would sit beside her on the left. But Neptune was in the way. He sat comfortably between Ruby and Weiss, but Ruby was cramped between him and Blake.

“Neptune, do you think you can move a bit? I’d prefer enough room to work, and I’m sure Weiss would too,” Ruby added a hint of venom in her voice.

“Hmmm, how about...no.” he replied. His smirk truly pissed Ruby off.

“Dickhead,” Ruby muttered under her breath, not caring if Neptune heard or not.

Class passed quickly, it was now sparring class with the newbies. Glynda was swiftly explaining how their sparring matches worked and instructed the students to focus on attack today. A few moments of silence go by as she scans the auditorium, recounting the students above in the seats.

With her riding crop, she pointed at two students. “Miss Rose and Mr. Vasilias, would you two like to go first?”

Ruby grinned. Now was her moment. She stood and kept her composure, nodding at the woman down below. “With pleasure, Professor.”

Neptune stood and popped his neck. “It’s about time I actually got to do something interesting here.”

They both proceeded downstairs and to the preparation room. Ruby readied her scythe, preparing her dust rounds and sharpening the giant blade she wielded. She changed out of her uniform and into her combat attire. With everything set, she glanced at her opponent. He was still preparing his weapon while putting on his red jacket.

“Hey Jackass,” she called out, “if I win this, you leave Weiss alone.”

He scoffed. “As if I should listen to a dyke like you. Now listen here, Rudy,” he started strutting towards the younger girl. “You guys may have your little rules here about holding back when your aura runs low or some crap, but you’re going against me. No mercy, especially for a stupid dyke like you. Make note of that.”

“My name is Ruby!”

“Like I care.” Neptune walked out onto the arena.

Ruby took a moment to sit down. She still had a couple more minutes before her match began, which gave her plenty of time to think of her strategies.

I don’t know his fighting style. I don’t even know what his weapon is. Just take him down. As hastily and painfully as possible. He needs to know who he’s dealing with. I am Ruby Rose, daughter of the great Summer Rose! I am the greatest future huntress to walk the face of Remnant! I refuse to disappoint Weiss!

It was now about time to get out on the arena. Ruby took her place as Neptune took his. They faced each other, not more than a dozen paces away from each other. Their gazes at one another were sharper than knives, the atmosphere beginning to change. The tension was thickening quickly.

“Ready your weapons!” Glynda called out, her voice echoing throughout the auditorium.

They both pulled out their weapons, surging into their fullest forms. Ruby’s scythe drew attention from the newbies, many of them surprised to see such a small girl use such a bulky weapon. Neptune’s weapon was a trident, fitting with his name.

A trident, huh? Never seen one of those before. It’s pretty much a spear though, so just trap the weapon under the scythe and strike. This should be easy.

With both students ready to begin, Glynda withdrew her arm.

“Begin!”

Using the tactic she does nearly every time when facing a spear-wielder, she rushed in and pointed her scythe blade down, the gun muzzle facing Neptune. With the way Neptune was holding his weapon, Ruby’s strategy was made easier. The center tip of the trident was now lodged into Ruby’s muzzle, exactly how Ruby had wanted it.

With a grin, she fired her first round, shattering the center blade and sending Neptune flying backwards. Of course, this tactic was made for spears, but it seemed to work well for the trident. There were still two others, but neither of them were nearly as long as the center. His reach was now more limited.

She continued to do her typical combat strategies, deploying every single one that came to mind. Dust rounds, a little bit of hand-to-hand combat, lots of swift swings of the blade. Each one proving effective in the battle.

Isn’t he going a little too easy? Is he holding back? This doesn’t feel quite right.

He paused. Ruby took it as an opening, rushing in with the blade to strike. As soon as she lifted her arms, Neptune jabbed the two blades into Ruby, her aura badly damaged from that. She was now at around 60%, surprised that she had taken heavy damage from one hit. She fell to the ground, and suddenly she felt unable to get up. She couldn’t move, no matter how hard she tried.

Then she noticed the the sparks of electricity coming off of the two blades. Paralysis shock properties from lightning dust. His blades were clearly infused with tons of it. And he was only using them now.

Ruby couldn’t move, and the students above were starting to whisper among each other. She tried and tried to move something, but was only met with pain in the process. Neptune was shooting from a distance, her aura quickly decreasing.

“Ruby, get up!”

Silver eyes raced to find the one who shouted out to her. It was her sister, waving her arm around to get attention. “You need to get up!”

She pushed herself harder, starting to feel the paralysis wear off. She could move her fingers, her feet could now move, and soon her whole body was back in commission. Swing her scythe around, she managed to block a few more shots Neptune fired, retaliating quickly.

Neptune was much more skilled than Ruby had anticipated. The battle went on, their auras at equal level. But with another strike, Ruby’s was only one hit away from being completely depleted. She refused to lose and would stop at nothing to claim her victory.

But then she felt a pang in her chest. She looked up to see Neptune holding his ranged weapon pointed at her.

“Match set!”

And that was the end of the match. Ruby couldn’t believe it. She lost the match.

But it wasn’t over. In a flash of blue, she felt a searing pain in her waist, many gasps heard from above in the auditorium. Ruby placed her hand on her waist, pulling it back immediately when she felt the pain. There was blood. A lot of it. And she was losing it quickly.

“Neptune Vasilias, that was completely unnecessary! The match was already ended, proceeding any further is strictly prohibited!” Glynda shouted.

“I’m sorry,” he said, clearly not apologetic for anything. “At Haven, they taught us to show no mercy.”

“I will have you know that you are at Beacon currently. You abide by our rules. You may have been taught that, but our hunters and huntresses show restraint under any circumstances. Have I made myself clear?” Glynda’s voice was louder and more serious than it had ever been, it was actually starting to scare many of the students there.

Yang and Blake rushed to get to Ruby. Paramedics blocked Ruby’s view of anything else, and before she knew it, she was already on a stretcher. Her final glance at Weiss was with Neptune, not even turning once to see Ruby.

Weiss...

Please come back...

To us, team RWBY...

And to me, your partner...

~~~~

What a wonderful Sunday to post another chapter! If you’re all wondering why Neptune is an antagonist in this story, it’s simply one reason: I don’t like Neptune. I just thought he got in the way of Whiterose in Volume 2, and I was really annoyed by him. So I decided that because I hate him (nothing against those who actually like him), I’d make the sensible characters hate him and everyone oblivious to what lies beneath. How cliche.

I dunno, it made more sense in my head.

Until next chatper!

-Scarlet

#tcse au chapter 12 #tcse au #rwby #rwby au #my fanfics

[scarletroseofrwby]

TCSE AU Chapter 16:

Rays of light had shown through the small gap between the curtains on the window. Ruby slowly opened her eyes, quietly groaning in pain as all the minor injuries she had obtained yesterday started to take effect.

Looking down, she found her lips far too close to Weiss’s forehead, one arm wrapped around her partner’s head, the other wrapped around the waist. Their bodies were touching, only their clothing in the way of bare intimacy.

“Holy smokes, Yang would never believe this,” Ruby murmured, quiet enough so that Weiss doesn’t wake up.

She turned her head to the bedside table to check the clock. Bright green numbers displayed 7:12 am. It was already 12 minutes past there usual wake-up schedule. But it was a Saturday, and with the awful night they had, she could let it pass today.

Beside her, she heard soft moaning sounds and a quiet yawn. Weiss was awakening, and Ruby’s heartbeat immediately accelerated. She tried to remain calm as Weiss’s eyes fluttered open.

With one more yawn, Weiss looked up at Ruby. “Good morning, Ruby. Why do you look at me like that?”

“Like what?” Ruby’s nervous smile gave it away.

Weiss had to admit to herself that she was feeling nervous about the situation at hand, having never slept with another girl in the same bed. She hadn’t even done so with Winter, this was incredibly new to her. How did she even manage to ask Ruby to sleep with her last night?

“You dolt,” the silverette sighed. “I’m really sorry for how I treated you before. We are best friends after all, and I feel obligated to make it up to you. Allow me to spoil you. Please.”

“Weiss, you don’t have to, really. I just wanted you back. And now you are, and I am content.”

The heiress felt a warm, fuzzy sensation in her heart, not sure what it was. But hearing Ruby say that definitely triggered it.

Suddenly, a loud growl was heard, emanating from Ruby’s stomach region. The young huntress smiled sheepishly. “Maybe we should get some breakfast now.”

“And we can’t go outside yet, can we? Because Neptune?”

Her partner nodded somewhat sullenly. “Yeah. If only I had knocked him out or something, we wouldn’t have to take refuge here.”

Weiss shook her head. “You did your best, and I really don’t mind staying here. I’ve been in need of a little vacation lately with everything going on at school.”

“And it’s not often we can get off campus for a few days,” Ruby said with a smile. “Might as well savor this while it lasts, right?”

Both girls sat up, leaving the bed at the same time. Ruby allowed Weiss to wash up first, but Weiss insisted Ruby went before her. They briefly debated on who should go first, Weiss quickly losing the argument when Ruby gave her her supposed ‘secret weapon’--the puppy eyes.

The young leader only giggled when Weiss had given up, proceeding to change in front of her. “By the way, Weiss, did the bras fit you? I’m sorry I couldn’t find your size--no offense.” Ruby was now only covered by a towel, ready to take a shower after Weiss.

Seeing Ruby with only a towel to cover her private parts made her face redden, the embarrassing bra question only making it worse. “No--” her voice cracked horribly--“I’m afraid they didn’t quite fit. But it’s not your fault, and I take no offense in your statement. My family is known for being tall and...busty, as Yang would put it, but I got the short end of the stick--pun unintended.”

“Oh my goodness, Weiss,” Ruby giggled even more. “I’m making you super embarrassed, aren’t I? Your face is so red! Is it me?” She struck an incredibly seductive pose. “Like what you see?”

“You dolt!” Weiss covered her face and proceeded to the bathroom. She felt incredibly hot and embarrassed beyond measure, her heart beating way too quickly for her liking.

She could hear Ruby’s cackles outside the door. She felt so embarrassed, but found herself laughing too. Not loud enough for Ruby to hear, but she was definitely laughing heartily. Sighing after that wonderful moment, she removed the rest of her clothes and stepped into the shower.

The warm water bounced clung to her skin, beads and droplets falling down her chin and breasts. Her hair quickly became drenched, and she let out a relaxed sigh.

While Weiss was taking her shower, Ruby heard her scroll vibrating on the bedside table. Her sister was calling. She picked up immediately, and Yang hollered a ‘hallelujah’.

“The Great One speaks, Blake! What? No, I’m not going to speak to the Great One for you! A simple ‘hello’ is not enough!”

Ruby’s eyebrows dropped and furrowed as her sister’s rambling went on. “Yang, stop calling me the Great One. What’re you calling for?”

Yang gasped dramatically. “I have a simple question for the Great One! I pray she answers with her utmost desire!”

The younger girl groaned, this was clearly going nowhere. “Okay, first of all, I need you to stop that. Please. Second--”

“Hey, it’s only fair! I’m paying for your little honeymoon, so you have to let me speak to you like this! Now, do you have food and outdoor clothing, O Great One?”

“We actually don’t. The hotel we’re at offers breakfast, but that’s it. We can’t bring food back to our room, and room service is really expensive.”

“Then fear not, O Great One! My romantic partner and I--Blake, let me do this!” Yang cleared her throat and continued. “Allow my romantic partner and I to provide for you and your lover, O Great One! Prey tell, from which lodge do you seek shelter currently?”

“We’re staying at Valian Suites.”

“Oh, what a fine choice you have made, O Great One. I can recall the many occasions we have visited from our childhood years. They have the wonderful pool, do they not? Would you like me to bring your swimwear as well? Perhaps your mistress will enjoy the hot tub.”

It was impossible to imagine Weiss in a swimsuit, even if it was a one-piece. Just the thought of her made her blush, but in a swimsuit? This was new territory. Weiss was beautiful already, but with something as bare as a swimsuit...she tried to imagine it. Her beautiful, slender figure, her snow-white skin, and her petite br--

Ruby’s brain was now fried.

“Rubes? Blake, I think I broke her. I’ll bring them anyway.” Yang cleared her throat once again before proceeding. “Have you partaken your morning meal yet,O Great One?”

She wasn’t quite fully restored, but part of her brain had returned to it’s normal state. “N-no...”

“Then I suggest you do that. I’ll bring everything by around 9:30-ish to 10.”

“A-and please be discreet. Watch your back, Neptune’s still out there.”

“Gotcha, Sis! See you later!”

The call ended, and Ruby was still processing...everything. She stood there like a deer in headlights, solid as a statue. Suddenly, she heard the running water stop.

Pull yourself together! Just get your feelings in check and be the Ruby Rose she can rely on!

Ruby set her scroll down on the bedside table, prepared her clothes, and waited for Weiss to finish up. It shouldn’t be too long of a wait, but she had to distract herself. Grabbing the TV remote from the coffee table, she turned on the TV and browsed through the channels. Eventually, she stopped on the Vytal Festival replays. She enjoyed watching the different teams of the past fight against each other. There was true heart and passion in each student that competed, each technique and strategy unique.

A team from Beacon was faced against a team from Atlas. Their fighting styles all varied, the weapons corresponding with how they fought. There was one weapon in particular that caught Ruby’s attention. It was a scythe--actually, it was two scythes--of some sort that would transform into double-barreled shotguns. They were pretty cool, but Ruby continued to tell herself that none could compare to Crescent Rose. As Ruby continued to watch, she found herself repeatedly thinking about being in these battles.

To think that one day she’d be in these replays with her team and make history.

Suddenly, she heard the bathroom door open, Weiss coming out with her pajamas in hand. She wore a red t-shirt that Ruby had purchased and black leggings that fit her legs nicely.

“You know my main color is white, Ruby,” Weiss said as set her pajamas down on the bed after folding them neatly.

“Technically, white isn’t a color. It is devoid of color, and I’m trying to give you some.” Ruby grinned at her own reply. “Besides, I think red suits you.”

“Then I appreciate your intentions, Ruby. Thank you.” Weiss replied with a small, dorky smile. The two stared at each other for a few more moments with their dorky smiles. The heiress cleared her throat, starting to feel a little silly for staring longer with her partner than necessary. “I believe it is your turn for the shower, Ruby.”

The young girl did a double take before her conscience was restored. She moved her head so suddenly that she nearly fell backwards. This earned a quiet giggle from Weiss. “Woah, you didn’t see nothing.”

“That’s a double negative, Ruby.”

“Sure. I’m gonna take my shower now.” Ruby proceeded on her path to the bathroom until her eyes flashed briefly, a sharp pain welling up on her left big toe. “Frick...Yang, stop stubbing your toe!”

Weiss wondered what exactly had just happened. “Ruby, how do you know Yang stubbed her toe?”

Ruby immediately sprung up from holding her foot to a proper standing position. “What do you mean Yang? Clearly I said I stubbed my toe.”

“You were nowhere near the wall or any corner, and your gait was too normal for you to have stubbed your toe on the floor.”

Shoot. I can’t tell her about the curse. I haven’t even told Yang about it! She’d freak and most likely tell Yang, and if I told her about the bonds, she’d think staying away from me is the best option. I can’t lose her!

It was then that she wondered what would happen to the red string if Weiss and her were to cut ties completely. Would the string just break?

“Ruby?”

No, she knew better than that. When you lose someone, the string stays and hurts you. Just like her mother’s string. It’d be worse than heartbreak, much, much, much more worse.

“Ruby!” Weiss’s firm voice took Ruby out of her thoughts. “What happened?”

WhadoIdowhadoIdowhadoIdo?!?!?!?!?!? Uhhhhhh....Uhhhhhhh? UHHghGHh?!

“S-Silver eyes!” The words slipped from her mouth before she had a chance to catch them. There was no going back now.

“What?” Before Weiss could question any further, Ruby had already disappeared into the bathroom, rose petals falling to the ground gracefully.

Silver eyes? What about her eyes?

Looking around for access to the internet, Weiss found Ruby’s scroll on the bedside table. She picked it up and tapped on the search bar, typing in ‘silver eyes’ immediately. Many results came up, and after skimming through a few articles, they were more or less the same. Attempts at scientific recreation of the silver DNA, each and every one of them a failed attempt.

“So what does that have to do with her?” Weiss asked herself as she continued to search for answers. Refining her search was difficult, every source about the attempts popping up. Nothing useful to Weiss in relation to Ruby.

Within the next few minutes, the results she had were very few. Silver eyes were very rare. Rarer than the rarest dust, ethereal dust. The SDC had such a small supply of it because of its rarity and how difficult and strenuous it was to achieve it. Next, silver eyes are impossible to recreate, and no contact lens could compare. Silver eyes were voted the most beautiful eye color in Remnant. And finally, natural silver eyes were a one in a two million chance.

“So what’s so bad about them? She should consider herself lucky with such a trait.”

Weiss paced around the room, wondering how she could find more information. It was clear Ruby did not want to press any further, and Weiss respected that. But that didn’t stop her from wanting answers. Would Yang know?

Then she remembered--she had Ruby’s scroll.

Forgive me, Ruby.

Tapping on the message app, Weiss saw the list of conversations and scrolled down. She found Yang’s right above hers, which was oddly named. Three heart emojis, Weiss’s name, three more heart emojis. The rest of the names were normal, almost bland-looking when compared to her own.

Thinking nothing of it for now, Weiss tapped on the younger girl’s conversation with her sister. As she read through them, the majority of the messages contained teasing, discussions on Friday night plans, and concern over Neptune. None of which contained any context or clues of silver eyes in any way.

The running water had stopped, and the silverette rushed to close the scroll and set it where it was previously. Unsure of what to do on the matter, Weiss flopped back rather ungracefully onto the bed with a groan. She jumped when the door opened faster than she expected. Ruby ran out with a wide smile on her face, her hair dripping water onto the carpet.

“Ready for breakfast?” That’s what Ruby was smiling about.

Weiss couldn’t help but smile back and nod. “I’m quite famished, I haven’t eaten since yesterday afternoon.”

The younger huntress took her hand, pulling her off of the bed. “Let’s go then! I’m starving!”

“Your hair isn’t dry yet, dolt! We can’t go with you like that!” Weiss protested, crossing her arms somewhat impatiently.

Ruby shook her head quickly like a dog, the water flying everywhere. Weiss quickly raised her arms in defense, not willing to get wet again. “Gah--Ruby! Warn me next time!”

“All dry! Can we go now?” The younger girl made the eyes that nobody could say no to.

With a huff, Weiss shook her head and curled her lips in a smile. “Fine. But you’d better brush your hair when we get back.”

As they vacated the room, Weiss could only stare at her hand being grasped by Ruby’s as she led them both to the elevator excitedly. The warmth she could feel, the kindness and compassion Ruby had, she could feel all of that in just her hand. And the way she was held last night...

Why did it feel as if nothing bad had happened last night? She felt no guilt, no shame, no...anything for what happened. She still felt unsure about going back to Beacon, but she still had a few days to recover. She wasn’t alone either.

Ruby had been with her the whole night. Ruby had held her the whole time. Ruby had made her smile when she didn’t want to. Ruby had done so many things for her, and even with all the riches in the world, she could never pay off her debt. Had Ruby not been the kind and caring person she is, Weiss wouldn’t know what to do.

The elevator dinged as the doors slid open, Ruby continuing to drag Weiss out of the small room and to the dining area behind the fireplace she was sat at last night. They found a table close to the fireplace, Ruby pulling out Weiss’s chair for her to sit.

“I can get the food. If they don’t have what you normally eat, what do you want as backup?” Ruby asked.

The younger girl was even thoughtful enough to ask for a backup suggestion. Why was Weiss noticing these things now? “Umm, I suppose scrambled eggs and hash browns will do, thank you.”

“Black coffee?”

Weiss nodded. She watched as Ruby walked off to the buffet, looking on as the brunette picked up plates and shoveled food onto them. Her semblance allowed her to get the job done much faster, but she had to be careful with the coffee. Weiss quietly chuckled as she recalled the memory of Ruby spilling her coffee because she thought a spider was a rat.

“IT WAS HUGE, YOU’D BE SCARED IF YOU SAW IT TOO!! STOP LAUGHING, YANG!!”

When Ruby came back, she noticed Weiss’s smile. “What’re you thinking about, Princess?”

“Princess?” Weiss repeated, an amused grin morphing from an innocent smile.

“Of course! I’m your huntress! At your service, Madam.” Ruby bowed in respect, though jokingly, Weiss knew.

“You’re just a dolt, dolt.”

“Can I be your dolt?”

Her jaw was starting to hurt. Weiss had never smiled for this long. What are you doing to me, Ruby?

She sighed and rested her cheek on her palm that was propped up on the table. “I suppose, dolt.”

“Anyway, here’s your food and your coffee,” Ruby set down in front of her the plate of toast and bagels, a small portion of eggs and potatoes on the side. “Yang’s gonna come by later, she’s bringing us some meals and some clothes since we can’t go out.”

“That’s nice of her.” Weiss took a sip of her coffee.

“Yeah, Yang’f thuh beff thither,” Ruby said, her mouth full of food.

“What have I told you about speaking with your mouth full?”

The brunette giggled at Weiss’s annoyance. “Thorry.”

“Ugh. You really are a dolt.”

Swallowing the huge mass of food, Ruby stuck her tongue out playfully and winked. “Your dolt!”

Weiss rolled her eyes. “Keep eating.”

--------

It had been a little over 45 minutes since they ate breakfast, both of them now chilling out in their room. Ruby was lazily plopped onto the couch while Weiss sat properly beside her, both of them watching some sort of cliche romance movie.

“Soooooo...why are we watching this, Weiss?” Ruby queried. “Aren’t all these movies pretty much the same?”

“I happen to like these movies. And no, they’re not all the same as you say they are. Most of these are actually well-written. Maybe it would help if you actually paid attention to the plot.”

“Meh, they’re not really my thing. I like Red Vs Blue better. Oh, have you heard of Camp Camp?”

Weiss scoffed. “That childish cartoon? Your sister would not shut up about it and forced me to watch against my own will.”

Ruby tittered and flashed a smile at her partner. “Yep, that’s exactly what Yang did to me. It’s really not that bad though.”

Three knocks on the door were suddenly heard, and Ruby stood from her spot to open the door. Yang and Blake were standing with a few reusable bags. “Here we are, O Great One! My lover and I bestow the most delectable and most divine meals for you and your partner! And the finest garments for thou, we pray you wear them with pride and honor.”

Ruby looked past Yang’s shoulder and saw Blake staring back with a smile and a shrug. “I--uh--y-you have done well, my noble...sister--knight...or something.”

The black and yellow duo handed their young leader the goods they have brought over, Ruby taking them gratefully. They exchanged their goodbyes and little teases before the older couple left.

Bringing the few bags to the counter, she started separating meals and clothes, finding two swimsuits within the stacks of folded garments. Both were bikinis. Because of course they were. Ruby needed to get back at Yang somehow, but that time would come later.

There were enough meals for the both of them to last the whole stay, she set all of them in the mini fridge under the counter. She set down Weiss’s clothes on the bed, her own beside the prior stack.

“Do you wanna do something today, Weiss?”

The sudden question drew Weiss’s attention away from the TV. She turned her head and asked, “But I thought you said we couldn’t go out.”

“And we can’t,” Ruby confirmed. “But this hotel has a pool, so I thought you’d maybe like to go for a swim.”

“Swimwear?”

“Yang brought our swimsuits. I didn’t know you owned a bikini, Weiss.”

Weiss arched her eyebrow in confusion, rising from her seat and walking over to her stack of clothes, the white bikini sitting on top. “I’ve never owned a bikini once. My father thought they were too immodest and always provided me with one-piece swimsuits. Though he never took me swimming, my sister and my butler did.”

Her partner picked up the white swimsuit, and sure enough, there was a tag hanging from it. Weiss’s face flushed from embarrassment. She had to wear that.

“Yang got you a cheap one too,” Ruby pointed out, looking at the price. Only 6 lien. Usual swimsuits were around 12-20 lien, and if you were Weiss, you couldn’t think about affording it. It was just that pricey.

“Cheap? Six lien is practically nothing.”

Ruby giggled. “C’mon Weiss, you know that not everybody can be as rich as you.”

“I suppose, but that doesn’t excuse her lack of taste.This is simply too bland,” Weiss said as she picked up the swimsuit, going straight to the bathroom.

Once she locked the door, she took a quick moment to think about what she was doing and what was about to happen. She and Ruby would be going to the pool in bikinis. Ruby was going to her marks, all the scars that marred her entire body.

But she toughened up anyway. Ruby deserved this, and perhaps she did too.

The white swimsuit was more revealing than she had anticipated. The entirety of her midriff and stomach were exposed, the bottom piece failing to cover the whole area of her rear. It was far too skimpy and somewhat kinky. Her face reddened as she stared at herself in the mirror.

What the hell am I doing?

Opening up the bathroom door, she saw Ruby sitting on the couch with her scroll in hand, already dressed for the water. The swimsuit Ruby wore was just as revealing as her own, but in a dark shade of crimson. Her logo was printed on he left breast in black.

Weiss could feel her heart racing, her heartbeats pounding loudly in her chest. She could’ve sworn it would jump out of her body if possible.

To make her temperature rise even more, Ruby actually looked...attractive. It was rather unsettling, how beautiful Ruby’s body actually was. Perfectly curved hips, small waist, not too busty, defined abdomen muscles...the list goes on.

“Wow, Weiss,” Ruby’s words evidently caught in her throat from nervousness. “You look really good. Like, really, really good.”

“Really? I-I mean...thank you,” her voice cracked as she responded. “You look good yourself.”

“Shall we go?”

The heiress nodded, following Ruby out of the room. The two walked down the halls in a comfortable silence, waiting patiently for the elevator to open up. They proceeded once on the bottom floor, Ruby leading them both to the indoor pool, which was surprisingly empty of people right now.

Ruby jumped right in while Weiss grabbed a couple of towels and set them down on one of the seats.

“You comin’, Weiss?” Ruby called out, her hair already soaked from submerging. “The water’s not too cold!”

“I’m coming, I’m coming.” Weiss replied, making her way over to the stairwell.

“Why don’t you jump in?”

“I prefer to take my time.”

“But that’s no fun.” Ruby splashed water at Weiss. “Just jump! Or I’ll pull you in!”

Both options were terrible ones. She could go in by will, or go in by Ruby. Usually, she’d go in by will. She was dragged by Ruby before, it was not a pleasant experience. Then again, she isn’t running for her life from Grimm right now...

“...three...”

She hadn’t had a lovely childhood like in the books she’d read in her library. Maybe it wouldn’t be that bad?

“...two...”

One second left, she might as well let Ruby have her way.

“One!!”

She felt a pair of hands grab her waist firmly and pull her quickly into the lukewarm water. Her heart fluttered while her lungs gasped for air, the sudden movement widening her eyes. Though the water that surrounded her blurred her vision, she could see Ruby’s smile underwater. Both of them came up, laughing and giggling.

And Weiss suddenly paused, her hand over her mouth. Did that just happen? Did she just...

She laughed genuinely. For the first time in front of anyone. And she loved it. She didn’t feel confined, she didn’t feel alone, she felt free.

Realizing Ruby was watching, she simmered down, her face feeling warm.

“You laughed, Weiss,” Ruby stated, seemingly shocked. “I’ve never heard you laugh like that.”

Weiss didn’t know what to say. She suddenly started to feel anxious, not wanting to be ridiculed or degraded for doing such a thing. Her father had always--

“Wait, Weiss, don’t freak out! I didn’t mean it in a bad way,” the younger girl waver her arms around and shook her head frantically. “It was just super cute, and you’re really pretty, and--jeez, what am I even saying?”

The brunette hid her face in her palms and submerged herself, bubbles rising to the surface and popping within a split second. Weiss had wondered if Ruby meant what she said. Reaching below her, she grabbed Ruby’s arm and pulled her out from below.

“Did you mean what you said?” Weiss asked, her face stern and serious.

Ruby lowered her hands slightly, not letting them fall completely. “Y-Yes? How could I not though?”

“Because I was awful.”

“Weiss--”

“Because I don’t deserve any of this.”

“Weiss, I--”

“Because I was such a bi--”

“Weiss, you aren’t at all!” Ruby swallowed her partner up in a bone-crushing hug. Not nearly as hard as Yang’s embraces, but enough to prove a point.

“Stop thinking about yourself like that. It hurts me to see you hurt, it pains me to know that you are in pain.” Ruby hugged even tighter, resting her head on Weiss’s shoulder. “Please don’t beat yourself up. Nobody is perfect. Not you, not me. Not Yang, not Blake. Not even Professor Ozpin.”

“But I can’t make up for how I behaved recently, I can’t make up for the many times I’ve insulted and degraded you and the team and everyone else.”

“Oh Weiss,” Ruby murmured, “you don’t need to. We’ve forgiven you and love you for who you are.”

“Who am I?” Weiss knew it was a stupid question, but she honestly didn’t know.

“You’re incredible. You’re strong. You’re super duper smart. You’re an amazing partner and teammate. You’re my favorite and only study buddy. You’re Weiss Schnee, the amazing young woman we all love! The list goes on and on about the many things you are.”

“But there are bad qualities to me as well--”

“All of which we’ve accepted and love. You can let go of all those negative thoughts about yourself. And you need to stop thinking about the downside to everything. I’m gonna get that thinking out of your head! Be optimistic, hold you chin high! And most importantly: don’t forget to smile!”

You can let go of all those negative emotions. Just let go, Weiss.

“I’m with you, Weiss. All the way. You’ll always have me.”

Ruby splashed water towards Weiss, the mood lightening as the silverette squealed playfully. She splashed back, and thus the pool war began. Weiss knew Ruby’s immediate action was to retaliate with more power.

“You  know you ruined the mood, Ruby. I was actually enjoying the serenity.”

“When I see an opportunity for a pool war, I don’t hesitate!” Ruby stuck her tongue out. “I declare war, Weiss Schnee!”

Weiss smirked, glyphs appearing beside her. “I gladly accept you challenge, Ruby Rose.”

“Hey, no semblance!”

“Is it now?” Weiss stood there, her arms crossed as she maintained her proud grin. Ruby had fallen right into her trap.

“What’re you doing?” Ruby stared back in confusion. “Do you surrend--hey, why’s it so cold?!”

“When given the opportunity for a proper pool war, I don’t hesitate!” Weiss mimicked, even sticking her tongue out at Ruby. “Now surrender!”

“Cheater! Holy shizz, it’s getting colder! I surrender! I surrender!”

The older girl laughed maniacally. “Taste my sweet revenge for our match before.”

“Hey Weiss? You’re not holding a grudge against me for that one, are you?” Ruby’s attitude had completely changed.

The water quickly reverted to its original temperature. Weiss rushed through the water to grab Ruby’s shoulders for reassurance. “Ruby, of course not. It’s not at all like that. I wasn’t mad at you that day either, I just have trouble with my past.”

“Do you want to talk about it?” Ruby got out of the pool by the edge, taking Weiss’s hand to pull her out.

Weiss hadn’t taken her hand yet, still hesitating in the water. “I don’t know, you probably wouldn’t understand half the things I would say.”

“Hey, Weiss,” the girl’s silver eyes glimmered, “if it’s for you, I’d do whatever I could to help you. Please, just let me try.”

Pulling her out of the water, Ruby led them both to the hot tub that sat a few yards away from the pool. Weiss went in after Ruby, the hot water and bubbles putting the heiress at ease.

“What’s been bugging ya, Weiss?”

“Too vague. Try again.”

“Umm, do you want to tell me about last night?”

“What’s there to tell? You were there.”

Ruby whined like a child. “I’m trying to help you!” She took a deep breath.

I can see why Yang likes teasing her. It’s somewhat addicting and fun.

“Weiss, just be honest. What’s going on in your head? What are you thinking about mostly right now?”

Slightly disappointed that the fun moment had ended, she knew Ruby wanted this, and perhaps she needed this.

“I just can’t stop thinking about last night. I really thought I could trust him.” Weiss groaned in frustration. “I trusted him! I feel so stupid and just--ugh. I’m so stupid.”

“Weiss, you’re not stupid.”

“Then how could I have not seen it? You’ve warned me so many times, you’ve stepped in between us both, and yet I didn’t notice why! I just--I just don’t want to talk about him right now. I don’t want to think about him right now.”

She was now frustrated, and Ruby knew she was starting to stray into dangerous territory. She had to keep Weiss calm and be sure she doesn’t have a breakdown.

“Ruby, I really can’t. I just can’t.”

“A-And that’s okay! Don’t feel pressured to talk about it all at once. I’ll always be willing to listen whenever you’re ready.”

“Ruby, you have said before that you and the team love me for my mistakes and flaws. Please tell me: by what definition is your love?”

“That’s kinda hard to explain. For me, I guess I love you because we’re best friends? I just love you, Weiss. You’re a really great gal, and I wouldn’t trade you for the world.”

The heiress felt her cheeks get hot, a chill running down her spine--despite being in a hot tub--when she heard those words.

“B-But don’t take it the wrong way!” Ruby waved her hands around frantically. “It’s not wrong for best friends to say we love each other, right?”

“I wouldn’t know. You’re the only one I’ve ever had.”

“Oh.”

A moment of silence followed before Ruby spoke again. “Does it still hurt?”

Weiss hesitated to answer. It was still a very touchy subject to her, and she wasn’t sure if she was ready to talk about it again.

“Oh shoot, I’m sorry, Weiss,” Ruby face palmed herself. “I should’ve been more sensible, I’m really sorry.”

“N-No, it’s not that. I’m fine, I suppose.” Weiss’s tone sounded heavy and exhausted. “Physically, it only hurts slightly, but I just--”

“It’s different when it’s been taken away from you,” the younger girl finished.

“Yes. I don’t feel the same. I feel as though I’ve been robbed.”

“I know that feeling. I know all of it. Are you doing okay though? About the whole thing?” Ruby scooted closer to Weiss.

“That’s difficult to answer right now. I just don’t understand anything. And I hate that I don’t understand.”

“Do you want to talk some more about it?”

“I-I don’t know. I’d like a little more time, Ruby. But...I promise I’ll come to you before anyone else when I’m ready.”

“I’ll be all ears.”

Ruby smiled her signature, quirky smile. Weiss felt her heart flutter in her chest briefly at the sight. The heat from the water managed to cover up her blush pretty well. Her hands started fidgeting in the water, her legs crossing as she shifted positions every few minutes. Her heart would only beat faster when Ruby smiled back at her, and whenever those silver eyes shimmered--

What the hell is happening to me? What is she doing to me? Everything about her is enticing and beautiful and--why am I noticing every little thing about her? Am I actually..? Oh god...

She’d probably have to ask Blake to confirm her suspicions. But she was pretty sure...

No, it can’t be. I can’t that’s impossible.

She could feel it. Her body was sinking, she felt odd. Her lungs suddenly felt empty, her heart jumping out of her chest. Everything around her was warm. Too warm.

Weiss was falling.

I’m falling...

Falling hard...

Falling for what?

~~~~~~

I hope you all enjoyed another chapter of TCSE AU! My friend told me that there should be a fanservice chapter, and so I have attempted to deliver. Was this really a fanservice chapter tho? 

Meh, idk. 

Did I have fun writing this? 

Heckin yeah.

Until next chapter!

-Scarlet

#tcse au chapter 16 #tcse au #rwby #rwby au #my fanfics