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@razorblade180
If anyone throws Genshin leaks in my inbox or in comment thread, Iāll just block you forever.
I donāt regret our choice. I regret we had to make them in. The first place.
Not to toot my own horn but I think I kinda cooked this entire Lancaster event.
9 Days of Lancaster Day8: Epilogue Elopement
Yang:Ruby!? Rubes!? Guys, where is Ruby?
Blake:She said sheās gonna be gone a few days.
Yang:What!? She knows thereās a ceremony in our honor soon, right?
Weiss:And when has she ever cared about that sort of thing? She didnāt even help with the dance.
Yang:Still, sheās not one to miss a celebration. Especially after everything weāve been through.
Ren:Perhaps she needs a moment to decompress. What we did was nothing easy.
Nora:Iāll say! I slept for two days! I thought I would miss the celebration. Now Iām awake and have to help plan it!? Uuggh.
Weiss:Being told where to stand and having a small speech is not helping plan it. By the way, where is Jaune. Heās been more elusive than Ruby.
Ren:Said he went to visit some family but promised to be back in a couple days.
Weiss:Canāt anybody wait until after the ceremony!? Wouldnāt his family vis- siiiiiggghhh it doesnāt matter. Itās fine. I will not be worked up post war.
Yang:Maybe I should visit home real quick?
Weiss:If you donāt plan on using your motherās portal Iāll freeze you where you stand.
Blake:Hmmm.
Ren:Whatās wrong?
Blake:Nothing. I just think itās interesting theyāre both gone.
Weiss:Whatās that supposed to mean?
Blake:Nothing serious. I suppose our leaders just needed a well deserved break.
xxxxxx
Terra:Why is it that every time I see you two, thereās a crazy plan involved?
The two could not hear her over their own joy. In the outskirts of Argus, overlooking the beautiful ocean, Ruby and Jaune stood hand in hand wearing their dance attire and giggling. To say their happiness was infectious would be an understatement. Terra couldnāt help but smile, and Saph, who was watching with Adrian, could not believe this is how her day was going.
Saph:Itās official. You have surpassed your big sister in spontaneous behavior that will rile up mom and dad.
Jaune:Iām honestly more worried about Yang.
Ruby:Oh sheās going to be sooooo maaad, hehe.
Terra:The mischief of a younger sibling knows no limit.
Ruby:Itās fiiiiine. We are going to have a real ceremony later. No expense will be spared and everyone is invited. Today however, I refuse to hold this off another night. I wanna marry the man I love.
Jaune:And I want to be all yours to the very end.
Saph:sniffles
Terra:I suppose this is what happens when I get so many certifications in my spare time. Iāll gladly officiate this union. Now then, I know you two raced over here, but allow me to take a minute and say a few words.
Ruby:Weāre in your hands.
Terra:*smiles* They say thereās no greater miracle than finding the love of your life; your other half. I believe this with all my heart. However, each time I see you two together, I witness something even greater. You didnāt simply find your miracle. You cherished it; let it grow and turn into a bouquet for the world. A love thatās gifted more miracles in return. May every seed of hope you planted for others turn into vast garden and a bouquet back to you. Now then, do either of you have vows to exchange?
Jaune:Thereās been something on my mind Iāve been meaning to share.
Ruby:Iām all ears~
Jaune:Ruby, youāve always been something dazzling to me since the day we metā¦.
Ruby:*already tearing up* Oh I will not survive thisā¦
Jaune:You werenāt just a friend, peer, or co leader to me. You wereā¦like a fairy tale brought to life. Any time Iād listen to your stories or watched how you shined, it inspired me. Every day was like a new tale with something for me to learn from. The greatest thing I learned was how to love myself; to see how you do. Before I knew it, it was a story about us. A story I will continue to love and learn from every single day until itās your absolute favorite.
Ruby:Hehe, sniffles itā¦already is. Iā¦always thought for a long time the āhappily ever afterā would be when the heroes win. It was only after our journey took its biggest step when I realized my happily ever after wouldnāt be saving the day. It would be this day, with you. Jaune Arc, I love you beyond what the world will remember the story to be. Many would call this the perfect bookend, but for me, the prologue is over. Our story is just getting started and no matter what, I canāt wait to pen it with you.
Her hands trembled, but that was okay. Rubyās hero was there to hold them. Not a single eye was dry. What many would call brazen and rushed felt so perfectlyā¦them. It was all on time. No matter what, they were always right on time. They both glanced at Terra, who couldnāt help but gasp as she tried to fix herself. She had almost forgotten why she was there.
Terra:S-Sorry. I suppose I should ask if anyone has any objections, hehe? sniffles
Adrian:*rising hand* Bluby!!!
Saph:Iām sorry sweetie. Sheās too old for you.
Jaune:It be your own family.
Ruby:Pfft! I appreciate the thought.
Terra: Do you, Jaune Arc, take Ruby Rose to be your lawfully wedded wife?
Jaune:Without a doubt.
Terra:And do you, R-
Ruby:Yes! A hundred times, yes!
Terra:Then thereās only one thing left to say. By the power invested in me by online courses, I hereby pronounce you husband and wife. You may now continue your story.
The way Ruby jumped into Jauneās arms for that kiss. Anyone not in the know wouldāve thought only one of them returned from war. The blonde spun her happily, kissing the love of his life under clear blue sky. There was a slight chill in the breeze, but nobody seemed to notice at all. Even as Rubyās feet touched the ground and the kiss ended, the two huntsmen held each other close as they cried tears of joy. At last, their triumphant victory had become a dream come true.
Terra walked over to her bawling wife, taking Adrian away so Saph could fully weep. Terra rubbed her back gently.
Terra:Youāre crying more than them.
Saph:I justā¦I canāt believe it. My baby brother looks so happy! I never thought Iād see the day!
Terra:ā¦*hugs her gently* Youāve done a splendid job for him.
Saph:By the gods, how am I supposed to survive another wedding!?
Jaune:Weāll have plenty of tissues.
Ruby:And water. Clearly it will be needed.
Terra:Are you heading back now, or having a āhoneymoonā in Argus. Weād offer a guest room but I suspect you want genuine privacy.
Jaune:*red* We will leave in about two days. As for todayā¦we have more than enough lien for a proper hotel with all the services.
Ruby:A real honeymoon can wait with the ceremony. Everything is perfect as is right now.
Saph:As a gift, let me foot the bill. I insist.
Ruby:Huh, thanks. We appreciate it, sis.
Saph:Stahp! Iāll cry harder!
Ruby and Jaune hug her gently. It was starting to get hard knowing who was the baby of the family. Thankfully Adrian was there. If by any chance the city heard cries, heād shoulder such responsibility.
9 Days of Lancaster Day7: Marriage Pact
On a lovely afternoon in a tree upon a hilltop, Ruby overlooks the rolling acres of Patch and the many trees. Unbeknownst to her, Jaune also arrives under the tree seeking shelter from social interactions.
Jaune:Hey Rubes.
Ruby:Huh? Oh hey! Tactical retreat?
Jaune:Tactical retreat.
Ruby:Yeah. Sorry of the kids here are a little excitable. They love new faces.
Jaune:Itās all good. Honestly itās every store clerk and homeowner that drained me.
Ruby:Ah, yes. They too are a bit excitable, hehe. Thanks for coming home with me though. With Weiss handling her own family affairs, I didnāt like the idea of making this trip back with Blake and Yang.
Jaune:Third wheeling isnāt that bad.
Ruby:Oh itās not them specifically. I wouldāve put in my headphones and called it a day. Yang is introducing Blake to dad, which means the entire town is basically getting introduced. Itās a whole thing.
Jaune:My town is like that. You buy an ice cream cone alone and expect everyone to somehow ask you āwhat flavor did you get?ā Still, I wouldāve thought youād pick our trusted farm boy for this. Heād fit right in.
Ruby:That would definitely make this worse. I also donāt think heās prepared for this kind of fire.
Jaune:Not sure I follow.
Ruby:Yang is the talk of the town in the best way possible. Everyone loves her. āPatchās Own Sunlightā they call her. It was pretty common for neighbors to ask me if I was planning on doing sports like her, aiming for the same studies, attending the same school, and all that stuff. Not that sheās back and not single-
Jaune: āHave you found someone too?ā
Ruby:I hate it? Free me from the interrogation!
Jaune:I can see how bringing a farm boy home would add fuel to that fire. Not to mention, having him discuss a hypothetical future in general isā¦
Ruby:Yeah, Iād feel absolutely guilty.
Jaune:Well I donāt know if this is going to make you feel better but Mee Ma Seal has already asked me all about you.
Ruby:Why are you already calling her that!?
Jaune:Sheās very sweet and hard to say to. All smiles when I told her we met on the first day of school.
Ruby:*red* Soon all of Patch will be playing 20 questions.
Jaune:Hate to make things worse but are you sure bringing someone who looks vaguely like your dad was the best move? Given, yāknow, your own striking resemblance to your mom.
Ruby:ā¦.
Ruby:I was doomed from the start.
Jaune:Hahahaha!
Ruby:*hops to the ground* Maaaaan! I really forgot about that aspect. Although I suppose it kinda makes things easier. I donāt really mind them coming to their own conclusions. Thinking Iām too shy to admit our relationship is better than the sympathy and concern of me being brutally single.
Jaune:I never thought you cared so much about this kind of thing.
Ruby:Itās a mixed bag. I do and donāt. Iāve never really considered myself lonely, but itās hard not to think about the future when everyone seems to ask and show concern. To their credit, I am kinda hopeless with socializing with new people. Itās pretty flattering they think Iāve actually found someone who would date me to begin with.
Jaune:Thatāsā¦not a high bar to clear at all. If Beacon hadnāt gone the way it did, youād easily have a dozen of admirers and a few confessions.
Ruby:Pfft, you make me sound like Neptune.
Jaune:Iām serious. Youāreā¦amazing. Not to mention beautiful. Of course you could date someone.
Ruby:*blushes*Ohā¦umm, thanks? I never really thought that. Not that Iāve doubted my appearance or anything. I justā¦I dunno. Maybe Iām kinda used to Yang drawing that kind of attention. Even people in my class were fawning over her.
Jaune:Not exactly the same situation, but thatās how plenty of people were about a couple of my older sisters. Now if anyone is hopeless, itās me.
Ruby:You had mothers in Atlas frothing at the mouth. Whatever insecurities you left your home with should be slain ten times over.
Jaune:Do those really count? They were being playful if anything. Not like anything serious happened. Not to mention Iām more than a littleā¦dense at times. Hard to imagine me in a full blown relationship. Donāt even get me started on a future wife.
Ruby:Was that something on your mind?
Jaune:Wellā¦yeah. Iāve kinda done being alone for life. Not fun. Even before that, I loved the idea of growing old with someone; being happy and sharing each otherās lives.
Ruby:It is romantic. If Iām being honest, relationships were never entirely out of my mind. I mean how could they be? When I see the way my dad talks about my mom, who wouldnāt want to have someone feel that way about them? Not sure how realistic it is though.
Jaune:Weāre pretty young. Crazier things have happened to us in a shorter amount of time.
Ruby:Ugh, knowing us, that just means weāll be far too busy! Yang lucked out with her partner having a crush. Meanwhile Weiss still pushing back on BFF!
Jaune:Nora and Ren might as well been a love story playing out right before our eyes. Though to be fair to them and your sister, it certainly cost quite to get this part of their lives.
Ruby:Maybe Iām selfish, but I donāt think I wanna give an arm and suffer more than I have. I donāt think a well deserved world peace would change that. I fear Iām stuck. Iāll be a kickass bridesmaids though. Not to brag but Iām built for cool aunt status.
Jaune:Wellā¦if it really does feel hopeless one day, nothing stopping us from getting married.
The speed in which her head turned was a feat not even her semblance had achieved. Not only was she blushing like a fool, but he was too! It was like he surprised himself.
Ruby:..What?
Jaune:Iā¦Itās just that, it is an option, right?
Ruby:Youāreā¦not wrong. Still, y-youād marry me?
Jaune:Wellā¦yeah. Why wouldnāt I? Like I said, youāre amazing. Not to mention my best friend. Though I guess thatās a little weird to say unprompted. Sorry, that was-
Ruby:No! Itās fine! Iād marry you t-
Jaune:*deep red*ā¦..
Ruby:ā¦I-I would. Honest. Weāve come this far together. Plus I always thought weād be in each otherās lives for as long as possible to begin with.
Jaune:In that caseā¦how about twenty seven? If weāve beaten Salem by then and havenāt found anyone else to fall for, then why kick the can down the road? We couldā¦get married.
Ruby:Hmmā¦*looks away* that does sound promising. *whips around* But how would we even know we liked living together? Weād have to move in some place before that time comes.
Jaune:Thatās smart. Living on your own is rough anyways. We could buy an apartment or something long before then. We could be roommates.
Ruby:We already hangout and share hobbies. Having dates to see how things go will be easy.
Jaune:You were always gonna meet my family at some point anyway. Iām meeting your dad today! It all adds up.
Ruby:Could I pick the wedding venue? I was playing it cool earlier but there is this nice lake and field near a chapel that looks right out of a book!
Jaune:We can get married wherever you want. A mountain lodge for a honeymoon in Anima in autumn for the colors.
Ruby:That sounds nice. Umm not to make this sound too serious or legit but uhhh, *red* you wouldnāt be expecting eight kids, right?
Jaune:Absolutely not.
Ruby:Oh thank goodness!!!
Jaune:Ummm, would youā¦want any children in general?
Ruby:I meanā¦.Iā¦would give you one, if youāre asking.
The silence was louder than ever. Not a pale face between the two of them. They had to break eye contact; Ruby twirled with her hair while Jaune ruffled his.
Jaune:This gotā¦
Ruby:Super serious, ehehe.
Jaune:My bad.
Ruby:Itās all good. Iā¦actually feel relieved. Although, we sorta jumped the gun.
Jaune:Thatās putting it mildly.
Ruby:Haha, yeah. We jumped straight to kids. We glossed over kissing entirely. Forget marriage, that step comes before even getting a home. Itād be super awkward to be terrible at it when it matters most. I mean look at me; how would even r-
Jaune steps closer, moving right next to her, face to face. Even in the orange glow of dusk, the light did little to hide the redness of Rubyās face; making her entire expression a breathtaking sunset.
Jaune:We couldā¦figure it out now?
Ruby:*nods slowly* That makes sense.
To say she was scared to move was an understatement. And yet her hands did find his forearms. Ruby could tell oh anxious Jaune was, carefully waiting for signs to progress. In this moment, she did the only thing she could think of. Ruby closed her eyes and let her heels come off the ground. Either one second or eternity passed, but before Ruby could open her eyes again, a tingling and warm sensation spread across her lips. Its presence tried to fade away as quickly as it came, but small fingers squeezed two arms while a head proceeded to tilt further up. The warmth returned, persisting much longer and feeling more comfortable. Rubyās heels eventually returned to the ground. Her eyes open to see the flushed face and half lidded gaze of the her first friend at Beacon; and nowā¦first kiss.
Jaune:Ruby, can we⦠practice so more?
Ruby:ā¦Okay~
xxxxxxxxx
Ruby:*eating silently*
Yang:ā¦Word on the street is youāre kissing Jaune under a tree.
Jaune:Coughs painfully
Ruby:!? What the- NOBODY WAS THERE! HOW DOES THIS KEEP HAPPENING?!
Blake:*Passes water* Congratulations I guess?
Jaune:This town is truly terrifying.
Blake:If it makes you feel any better, I went to the store and they already knew my name.
Tai:Sooooo is there something youād like to tell me?
Ruby:Itās nothing!! We were just practicing!
Tai:Practicing for what, some stage play we havenāt heard of.
Ruby:ā¦.Marriage
BYT:MARRIAGE!?
R&J:WE CAN EXPLAIN!!!
Formless Love
Venti:Barbara!! Happy Pride Month!
Barbara:Oh, uh, happy pride!
Venti:Remember, I love you. Never fear to ask me for anything. Freedom and curiosity go hand in hand after all.
Barbara:Wh-What does that mean?
Venti:*slowly flying away*
Barbara:*red* Venti!!!? What does that mean!?
Venti:Iāll see you later, my dear deaconess!
Barbara:ā¦..
[The dead of night]
Barbara:*stares at ceiling*...I mean, I suppose he wouldnāt look that different as a woman. And he seems to be offering. Not to mention it ultimately would still be him, the one I love!
ā¦ā¦ā¦..
Barbara:*prayer hand*
A small pebble immediately hits her window, causing Barbara to walk over and see that unfortunately, Venti was waiting for his summons. She opens the window in defeat of being read like a book. The bard offers a smile a picnic basket.
Venti:I come bearing gifts. Sometimes, safety and curiosity arenāt enough. A nice wine and dine my fair lady?
Barbara:ā¦This tale doesnāt make it to tomorrowās breeze, or the fingers of a lyre.
Venti:You have my word.
He floats up and through the window casually, closing it behind him as the girl flustered rests her head on him and hit him lightly.
Barbara:This is entirely your fault Iām entertaining this.
Venti:I know.
Barbara:I love you.
Venti:I love you too. On the bright side, I basically look the same.
Barbara:!? Y-You already changed!?
Venti:Of course. These clothes get hot during the summer.
9 days of Lancaster Day6: I love you
After a long day of running errands, Ruby returns to the inn she and her friends are staying. She was prepared to be the last to arrive, but was surprised to see only Jaune in the common area, laying on the couch with a book.
Ruby:Wow, and here I thought I was really dragging my feet.
Jaune:Rough day?
Ruby:Not exactly. Just a lot of tasks. What about you? Easy day?
Jaune:In comparison to my Paper Pleaser listā¦.
Ruby:Riiight. Stupid question. Youāre like an ultimate task master now.
Jaune:It might be the one true silver lining in all of that.
Ruby:I meanā¦there might be one more.
Jaune:Hehe, I like to think in a world where we didnāt fall, we still wouldāve fallen for each other and confessed.
Ruby:*red*ā¦.That was cute.
He closes his eyes and pumps his fist, making Ruby giggle. The huntress walks towards him, presumably to sit. As Jaune is about to make space on the couch, Ruby does the unthinkable. Or rather, what Jaune never expected. Ruby laid on top of him, maneuvering her head between his arms and under the book. His hands naturally set aside and went to hold her steady as silver eyes looked into cobalt. He couldnāt help but blush.
Jaune:H-Heyā¦whatās up?
Ruby:Dunno. Justā¦never been this close. Eye to eye is kinda impossible when youāre standing. Is this too much?
Jaune:No. Honestly I canāt remember anyone being close like this. Not evenā¦
Ruby:Pyrrha?
Jaune:Sorry. I shouldnāt-
Ruby:Itās okay. Weāre okay.
Her fingers rubbed under his collar bone, stifling his breathing for a second. His heart was beating a little faster, and his hands held her tighter. Ruby took a moment to rest her head on Jauneās chest. Something about his heartbeat was soā¦relaxing. Scent, warmth, touch; it all blended together to make her own heart jump.
Ruby:Can I say something a little crazy? Iā¦really hope Iām not dreaming somehow.
Jaune:Thatās not crazy in the slightest. Iād be furious to wake up and lose this.
Ruby:.Thatās nice to know. Honestly itās crazy how happy this makes me. Itās like I donāt know how to act anymore! How are you so calm?
Jaune:You think Iām calm!? Youāre laying on top of me and smell like pastries. Iāmā¦minding my manners.
Ruby:ā¦*blushes* Oh, sorry.
Jaune:No, donāt be. Being this close is nice. After wondering when Iād see you again, this really is a dream. I love you.
Her head perked up immediately, blinking twice in disbelief and making Jaune panic.
Jaune:I-Was..um- Too soon?
Ruby:No, no, no! I justā¦I didnāt know if you were ready to hear it. Iā¦I love you too! Sinceā¦we set out for Haven basically.
Jaune:Wow, that long? Wild.
Ruby:*red* Listen! I-Youā¦there was so much going on. Things kept snowballing and snowballing some more into things I couldnāt imagine. But whenever I felt like it was too much, knowing you had my back made it feel lighter. You once told me I gave you all the courage to follow me. Jaune, youāre the reason Iām not afraid to lead; to keep trying. Andā¦again, I really am sorry about what I said during-
His right hand cupped her face, easing her breathing again and silencing the apology. Ruby looked at Jaune calm, reassuring smile that told her āitās okayā and to not even finish her thought. A gentle thumb press made her lean into his hand. Ruby didnāt know if he was drawing her in, or leaning forward all on her own. Regardless. She liked where she was going.
Their lips only grazed at first, sparking the flame between them. Ruby pushed ahead first, immediately gasping when Jaune kissed her back with equal force. Both his hands returned to hold her body close; not that Ruby had plans to leave. The only separation between them were the brief instances their lips needed to breathe before reconnecting. Ruby never took herself as the direct type when it came to romance. Heck, personal romance was an afterthought for most of her thought. Now she was living with butterflies in her stomach and an eagerness to deepen their kiss each time she heard a husky gasp leave Jauneās lips. To say they were lost in their kiss was an understatement. Nobody knew who started it, but once a tongue dared to cross the other side, it was fair game for both to be a little more adventurous; meeting to explore and play around became natural very quickly. It was almost scary how second nature it felt for both Ruby and Jaune. Strangely, this might be the calmest theyāve felt in a very, very long time.
The leaders only snapped back to their senses upon hearing the door open and the accompanying footsteps. Rubyās skin turned ten shades redder, and she buried her head in the crook of Jauneās neck to hide. Meanwhile the knight was left with three jaws on the floor from the rest of team RWBY holding bags of food. Yang was genuinely shocked, Weissās eyes have never been wider, and Blake was practically beaming with excitement. She was also currently the most mature person in this moment, dragging both Yang and Weiss down the hall to their rooms. When the door closed, Ruby looked back up with despair.
Ruby:Do I dare ask who were the witnesses?
Jaune:Ummm-
Ruby:Oh gods, it all three of them!?
Jaune:Silver lining, Iām pretty sure they bought you lunch.
Ruby:That doesnāt make me as happy as it probably should. How am I supposed to face them!?
Jaune:Wellā¦maybe do it now while also eating your favorites? After that, maybeā¦we can meet like this in my room? If thatās okay?
Ruby:Of- Of course! Yeah, thatāsā¦mmhm.
Jaune:Cool.
Ruby:Cool! Coolā¦uhh hehe. Umm, one more for the road?
Jaune was never going to say no to that. Again, he kissed her quickly, earning an unexpected deeper kiss that lasted several seconds for good measure before the girl pried herself off of him and stood up. Ruby awkwardly fixed her clothes, mainly her skirt, and proceeded to walk down the long corridor towards her fate behind a closed door. Jaune sat up to process what just happened. When the heck did his book even hit the floor?
Jaune:Did that really just happen?
WBY:AAAAAAAAHHHHHHH!!!!!!!
Ruby:SHUT UP!!!
Jaune:Pfft, hahaha!
When you think about it, Diluc is basically Varkaās nephew; that makes it really funny when he acts like he canāt fathom why the knights would love his return or treat him favorably. That man will list everything wrong with them and then stand beside Varka and pull out Wolves Gravestone. You canāt hate them too badly if thatās the blade you continue to use. š
Wise:Alright, letās check the-
Manato and Isolde: *radiating energy*
Everyone:ā¦
Belle:Miasmic Manato and Isolde two defenses in a row is crazy work.
Miyabi & Alice:How many times do we have to teach you this lesson!?
Shunguang:At least you know you can do it this time. Iāll justā¦be the anchor again.
9 Days of Lancaster Day5: Knights and Nobility
Far off in a land kissed by dusk and riddled with the denizens from both light and dark, the eve of a grand party basked in red awaits a proud kingdom.
As the people eagerly await a chance of status, power, wealth, or fun, a young man loses himself in the royal courtyard instead. Here it was quiet, a little ways away from the growing festivities. Many used this time to perfect their attire, but deciding he was already good enough, the blonde chose to risk soiling them as he walked through path of rose bushes. As he went to grab one, metal clanking from behind him grew unavoidab to ignore. He turned around with a smug smile on his face, knowing immediately the knight behind him was clad in silver armor with red dyed accents on every edge. The patterns on the greaves matched the thorns in this garden, and the knights sword revealed his familyās golden crest on the hilt below the red blade. Even with their helmet on, their gaze was evident.
Jaune: Another new blade? Surely The Red Knight isnāt one for hunting royals with specialized blades?
Red:Your Highness, please donāt joke in that manor.
Jaune:Only if you remember to use my name. After all, this isnāt an official gathering, nor a formal request to come drag me back.
Red:You underestimate Her Majesty.
Jaune:So it is formal? And they chose to send you? They must really want me back. One good pout from Red Knight Ruby and Iāll feel bad.
Ruby:Heh, is this you asking to see my face? You could make an order.
Jaune:*crosses arms* I could never. Chivalry isnāt strictly for knights yāknow.
Ruby:It suits your style nicely. A worthy virtue for a crowned prince.
Jaune:Heh, ācrowned.ā Letās be honest with each other. My father is more likely to pick one of my many capable sisters over me. Donāt you think?
Ruby:I canāt and will not claim to know the kingās thought process. I rather like my life. That said, do give him a little more credit. Do you believe heād place this nation in the hands of twins before you?
Jaune:Hahaha! I suppose that would be the most chaotic choice. Still, I donāt think I would complain. If Iām not chosen then all the more reason to do something more meaningful. You did say chivalry suited me.
Ruby:Being a knight isnāt all that itās cracked up to be. Itās riddled with danger.
Jaune:Do you regret your choices to be one.
Ruby:Not a single day. To fight for this kingdom brings me joy.
Jaune:Sigh, I admire that loyalty. Living your dream is a blessing. I guess thereās no use asking you if you ever dreamed of switching roles.
Ruby:M-Me? A princess? I fear thatās a lifestyle I donāt think I could ever manage. I donāt envy bureaucracy squabbling. Iām better with a blade.
Jaune:Really? Word says are most talented knight in generations can adapt to even the strangest of circumstances.
He plucks a flower off of its stem and walks over to his knight. It was always a little humorous getting close to her. So much talent in a person a little over half his height. Jaune made no jester or spoke no words as he held the rose. A tiny sigh left her as she looked around before holding each side of her helmet. A thick mop of black and dark red hair bounced as it fell out. Jaune couldnāt help but chuckle; Ruby had been making the pout the entire time and the eyes that gleamed brighter than her blade looked at him gently. His head delicately placed the rose in her hair, tucking it near her left ear.
Jaune:If our roles were reversed, I think Iād have no regrets either. Serving you would be a fine lifeās goal.
Ruby:Y-Youā¦shouldnāt say such things, your highnessā¦
Jaune:Would that also cause trouble for you? *tilts head*
Ruby:*red*ā¦.Umm-
???:There you are!
Ruby immediately puts her helmet back on and turns around to face her fellow knight clad in black and princess Saphron. A knee is taken immediately as she rushes over.
Ruby:Princess.
Saph:Oh no need for all that. Thank you for pinning him down long enough. My dear baby brother can certainly run when he wants to.
Jaune:That makes two of us.
Saph:Well you learned from the greatest. Unfortunately thereās no outrunning mother. Sheās this close to sending the entire crownās guard. Letās go! A-
Jaune:All must be in attendance. Sigh, okay. Ruby, Blake, I will see you later.
Blake:Ruby will actually be patrolling around the castle instead of the banquet.
Jaune:That so? I suppose Iāll just need to give another reason for someone to send you my way.
Ruby:ā¦.
Saph:Stop causing her trouble! Iām sure she has better things to do.
The elder sister takes her brotherās hand and whisks him away, playfully shaking her head at him while he pretends to not understand why.
The two knights watch the royalty leave. Once out of sight, they both remove their helmets. Blake watches as Ruby pulls a flower from her hair to look at. The younger girlās eyes seemed to drip off into a fantasy.
Her, a princess? Preposterous! And yet, under certain circumstances, the idea wasnātā¦upsetting by any means.
Blake:He fancies you.
Ruby:!? Heāsā¦having fun is all.
Blake:Curious how he only seems to have fun when youāre around. Perhaps we should swap patrol routes in the interest of keeping at least one royal where theyāre supposed to be?
Ruby:Unnecessary. He would never cause real trouble for his family.
Blake:Such faith in him~
Ruby:*red* Hush! Thereās no point in this conversation. Even if you said were remotely true, a prince at the end of it all pursues a princess. That isā¦how all of this functions.
Blake:As you say. *puts helmet on* But even from where Iām from, itās well known that many nobles have a moreā¦honest and simple origin.
The mischievous knight leaves, more playful than usual. Ruby glances at the flower again, flustered over that information for some reason. As she goes to drop the rose, Ruby hesitates. Itās not as if her helmet lacks space. Despite her best efforts, it returns to her hair right where kind hands placed it. The helmet is placed back on, and she walks off to continue her job. Perhaps if sheās quick about itā¦a patrol around the banquet itself wouldnāt be out of the ordinary. Itās important to keep an eye on everything after all.
9 Days of Lancaster Day4: Patching Injuries
They say most nightmares begins and ends in a dream, but for Ruby, sleep seemed to be the only quiet place. Pulled back into the waking world, her eyes open as she sits up violently. Pain wracks her body from the sudden jolt all across her sides; the familiar sensation of strained stitches and bruised ribs. Thankfully it dulls quickly. Before she could ponder anything, a voice calls to her from the right. Sitting in a chair beside their bed is none other than her healer.
Jaune:Donāt move much. Your aura is still replenishing.
Ruby:Jaune? How didā¦right. *lays down* I made it back home.
Jaune:Is that what weāre calling it? You were practically in a daze when you knocked. I had to carry you.
Ruby:Heh, my bad. Things got a little crazy.
Jaune:Do you know how long you were gone?
Ruby:Itās been a week.
Jaune:Two weeks. I thought you said the mission was four days?
Ruby:Yeah, and then I texted you that I took another one. After thatā¦I mightāve found another. People like asking a hero for help.
Jaune:A hero needs rest like anyone else.
Ruby:Not arguing that. Things got a little crazy on the hunt. I can admit that, but wasnāt anything I couldnāt handle. Thatās not ego talking either.
Jaune:ā¦.
Ruby:What? Iām sorry! Is that what you want to hear?
Jaune:Not if you donāt mean it.
Ruby:Wellā¦I do.
Jaune:What the heck got you so good?
Ruby:Forces from the battle that were left hidden. Salem sure made everything she could.
Jaune:You didnāt think to call for backup?
Ruby:All the mission said was ārouge grimmā and they were causing immediate harm. I didnāt think I was about to find the special forces of grimm.
She chuckled, but Jaune didnāt seem amused. Ruby still played it off, rolling over away from him.
Ruby:Iām taking another mission in a couple days.
Jaune:Solo?
Ruby:Is that an issue?
Jaune:ā¦Ruby, you couldāve died outside today if I wasnāt home. Itās the desert. The war has been over for months now, and yet youāre acting like weāre on borrowed time. Itās not even about clean up. Youāre justā¦leaving.
Ruby:ā¦..
Jaune:Do youā¦need to talk to someone? It doesnāt have to be me but I think maybe-
Ruby:I donāt have PTSD. Itās not like most of the battle was any different from the rest. Even you thought it was short.
Jaune:It was still crazy, and I wasnāt assuming thatās what you had. I justā¦I donāt know. Let me go on the next one with you. Itās not like Iāll slow you down. Plus I could use the ex-
Ruby: Jaune, I donāt need you looking after me! I get that I screwed up this time but it worked out! No need to be so scared. Iām not gonna die on you.
Jaune:ā¦.Are we okay?
As if a spell had broken, Ruby turned around and saw the boy looking solemnly at the edge of the bed. Her fingers clenched the covers as she sat up again.
Ruby:What?
Jaune:Weāve been arguing a lot lately. More than weāve ever had. I get thereās growing pains in living together and all butā¦I guess I thought saving the world was the hard part. Now it feels simple compared toā¦us. Changing the world means changing us it seems.
Ruby:S-So what? Is this you asking for a break?
Jaune:Ruby, Iāll never need a break from you, but if this is too fast or you feel like you need to do something without hearing an opinion thenā¦Iāll get out of your way. You canāt ask me to not worry about you. Best you can do is tell me to go.
Ruby:ā¦..
Ruby:Iām sorry. For real, Iā¦Iām sorry. I shouldnāt have talked to you like that. Youāre just worried about me.
Jaune:Should I be?
Ruby:ā¦Iā¦I donāt think I know how to be normal.
ā¦ā¦ā¦.
Ruby:Itās really dumb, thinking back at it. I always talked about being normal and living life. I did it; I became a hero like I wanted and now I have the rest life to do the rest. Butā¦no matter what I think of, I canāt help but wonder what my next mission is. Why find the time for a hobby when I can pack my things and go fight something? I donāt mind the applause but it isnāt for that; Iām not afraid of the peace getting ruined either. Iām sure itāll endure. And thatā¦scares me. *tearing up* I fought foot to be over, and now Iām mad about it? Heh, how stupid can one girl be?
Jaune:Youāre not stupid.
Ruby:Well Iām not smart! Not like Weiss! I never looked ahead at a grand picture like Blake! Iām definitely not as adaptable as Yang! Ren and Nora already know what they want to do with their orphanage, and Iāve never seen you happier than when you put down your sword! Youāre so happy with this; with us! Whyā¦why arenāt I? *rubbing face* I love you. This should be the perfect ending but it isnāt because all I ever wanted to be is a huntress! Every time Iām out there I feel so calm but then the mission ends and Iā¦.
Her voice shattered like glass, overwhelmed with this disgusting sense of guilt that made her head fall into her hands. She did her best to hold it all in, but then she felt Jauneās arms wrapping around her. Rubyās breath hitched again and again as she audibly wept. Saving the world really was the easiest part.
Jaune:Itās okay. Things areā¦okay. I know I look happy to finally rest, but the joy of it is being with you. Donāt ever feel like taking me on another mission is a burden. Iām a huntsman too. As for after the mission ends, we can solve that together too. It might feel awkward and even boring at times, but thatāll end too. Itās not like your talents end at combat either.
He managed to pull away Rubyās hands from her face. Both his thumbs repeatedly wiped away flowing tears as she tried to pull herself together.
Jaune:Youāre the most talented person Iāve ever met. Athletic to a fault and caring. Not to mention a motivator. Any sport could be a hobby, and thereās thousands who still want to hear your voice. Wasnāt your dad and uncle a teacher? I donāt know if you care for that sort of thing, but youād be an awesome one! The best even. Oh! Letās not forget youāre an exceptional weapons craftsman. You could totally start your own little forge or shop.
Ruby:Thatā¦That sounds kinda fun.
Jaune:See!? Nobody loves weapons quite like you. It can even just be a hobby you do occasionally and you test them out on missions. I know things donāt feel as great as you had hoped. I feel the same. After all, my happy ending has you smiling brighter than the sun. Weāre no strangers to fighting for a happy ending, so it should feel pretty normal working towards it together, right?
His smile soothes her arching heart. Again, Ruby returns to his embrace, clinging to him with all her heart.
Ruby:Iām so sorry. I shouldnāt have made you worry like that. I should know better; I know exactly what waiting feels like! Please, please donāt think I want you go. I love you. Iām always going to love you!
Jaune:Apology accepted. It might not sound the best right now, but take a proper rest. Breathe. Just breathe. We can worry about everything else later.
Slowly, Ruby got her body under control. Her chest stopped hurting, the trembling in her fingers ceased, and her tears dried. The warmth of Jauneās hand against the right side of her face steadied her breathing. Ruby couldnāt stop herself from tugging down on him shirt, bringing him in for a kiss brimming with thoughts and emotions. Despite her confidence in many things, Ruby always feared she never said enough no matter how much she spoke. May this kiss even be half enough to express how badly she felt for her attitude. Even when their lips parted, it wasnāt long at all before they met again to reassure her of his forgiveness. By the time it ended, Ruby had fully calmed down, now resting her head on his chest.
Jaune:Now then, should I cook your favorite meal tonight?
Ruby:Later. Right now, just stay like this. At least a little longer.
Jaune:Not a problem. I love you.
Ruby:Can I make this up to you somehow? Please?
Jaune:Hmm, you can make me new armor? When youāre healed of course.
Ruby:Deal. You can have the first Ruby Rose original.
Jaune:Looking forward to it. I know youāll do great.
9 Days of Lancaster Day3: Otherās POV
Summer:Yāknow when I was growing up I was often told to win a guy over by making a delicious meal. Not to brag but I think I make an exceptional steak; yet despite all odds, my dear husband chooses to decline mine in favor of a restaurantās. Itās a good thing my pride isnāt easily bruised~
Tai:*red* Summer, itās our anniversary. Neither of us should be cooking. Weāre on a date!
Summer:Hehe, Iām just teasing. Still, itās a bit funny you chose a steakhouse.
Tai:Well it has a certain someoneās favorite dessert I canāt seem to recreate.*looks at menu*
Summer:Donāt feel bad. Strawberry tarts might as well be arcane sorcery. I can only make like three perfect ones. Of course that means I only eat one while the rest go to-
Tai:ā¦.*looks up* Summer?
Summer:Ruby?
Tai:Yeah, she does love them as much as-
Summer:No, Ruby. Look.
He looked over his shoulder and sure enough, several tables away was their daughter in a pink dress with strawberries on it, sitting patiently in a booth. Before either of them could question why, the girlās head perks up as a well dressed Jaune approaches and sits on the opposite end of the booth.
Tai:Are they on a date!?
Summer:Thatās not the shocking part. Our little girl is in pink! When did she even buy that?
Tai:Well she has gotten a friend thatās rather high class. Should we embarrass them?
Summer:Taiyang Xiao Longā¦
Tai:It was a jooooke. I wonāt bother her. Iām not that mean.
Even from here, Summer could tell her girl was twiddling her thumbs. She also did that when she was nervous. Rubyās face was permanently pink and her eyes, though a little avoidant, always returned to their target with the softest gaze that melted Summerās heart. Tai couldnāt hear the conversation between the two, but he could see that they were giggling nonstop.
Summer:Our little girl is really in love, isnāt she?
Tai:No doubt about it. I remember you used to make that same face when we studied together.
Summer:Cross our fingers that boy doesnāt pick someone else then.
Tai:Wooooow, youāre feisty today.
Summer:I kid, I kid. Honestly the fact those two are on a date is proof sheās leagues ahead of me at her age.
Tai:Maybe one day this will be their anniversary spot.
Summer:Donāt make me cry! *raises hand* Waiter!
Waiter:Hmm? Is something wrong?
Summer:No. sniffles Justā¦send a plate of strawberry tarts to that young couple over there. Keep it anonymous.
Waiter:Consider it done. *walks away*
Tai:Sheās definitely going to know something is up.
Summer:Sheāll be distracted by pastries.
Tai:Guess Iāll go ahead and pay their bill too. Wouldnāt want Ruby to eat all this manās money.
Summer:Oh? Has he earned your respect? A guy good enough for your babygirl?
Tai:*red*ā¦I like how attentive he seems to be. It makes her smile; not to mention sheās constantly bringing him up. If sheās happy, Iām happy.
Summer:Awww, how cute. I just might fall for you all over again.
Tai:Well it is our anniversary. *holds hand* Shall we pretend itās our first date all over again? *kisses hand.
Summer:*blushes* I remember how that ended.
Tai:I meant the dinner and butterflies!
Summer:Hehe, yes. To all of it.
Tai:How greedy.
Summer:You know who you married.
I really want the next scene that happens is Sora registering its Young Xehanort and just swinging his keyblade from this position. Xehanort isnāt even mad. Itās unfortunately the most reasonable response ever. š
WHAT DID YOU THINK OF THE NEW KH4 TRAILER!!!
When I tell you at was at work with 4 hours of sleep in me and feeling utterly miserable, Iām not exaggerating. I pulled out my phone on break to see a Nintendo video uploaded 10 minutes ago and one of the staff members saw the literal light come back to my eyes.
Once again, life doesnāt feel so bad. I genuinely feel happy and will proceed to have a more balanced diet.
She looks so good! I just want to see Sora and her hangout already!!!š
9 Days of Lancaster Day2: Snowed in
In the heart of Vale at a hotel, a dorky reaper stares off into the snow capped city covered in the midst of a storm. For the past hour, howling wind only grew increasingly louder like a pack of wolves. Only the beep of her scroll cut through the bellows, and she didnāt even have to read the message.
Ruby:And just like that, weāre Snowed in. So much for concerts and conventions.
Jaune:*on the bed* Iām sure theyāll reschedule.
Ruby:But we already used time ooooffff! Not to mention part of our winter break. The only thing worse is if we were stuck in dorms.
Jaune:At least we have an excuse to not worry about studies.
Ruby:Our topic should be why Vale should have a heating grid like Atlas. Siiiigh
Jaune:ā¦*pats bed*
Ruby:ā¦
Jaune:patpatpatpatpat
Ruby:Okay!
Accepting defeat, Ruby joins him on the bed. As hard as she tried to remain cold and grumpy, the pull of her waist into his arms was soothing.
Jaune:This was really important to you, wasnāt it?
Ruby:I just⦠we donāt get many chances to do casual, average things.
Jaune:Looking for those ānormal knees?ā
Ruby:Theyāre apparently nowhere to be found, again.
Jaune:Wellā¦complaining is normal. Booking an hotel for a con is pretty normal; and so is the disappointment of delays and cancellations.
Ruby:I know youāre trying to make me feel better but itās sounding like the cruelty of life.
Jaune:My point is you donāt have to chase normalcy. Even though youāre super cool and awesome all the time, youāre a normal girl through and through. Thatās what makes you cool to begin with.
Ruby:ā¦Is it normal to want to kiss you right now?
Jaune:Me specifically? No, thatās beyond strange and you might need to look into that.
Ruby:Hehe, hey, donāt disrespect my crush like that. Heās really sweet, even if he rambles.
Jaune:Youāre one to talk. I canāt remember half the weapons you named at this event.
Ruby:Iāll remind you later.
She grabbed his collar, pulling herself up slightly and tilting her head to give Jaune a big kiss. His arms wrapped around her before he fell backwards, spurring some laughter and deepening the kiss. As it ended, Ruby rose her head to look at the boyās blushing face before hiding her own in the crook of his neck. The way his hands traveled up and down her back made her spine tingle.
Ruby:Soooo, is there any other normal things that happen in a snowed in hotel room?
Jaune:I-I can think of maybe one or two. Three if pressed.
Ruby:Neat.
With a deep breath, Ruby moved, placing a leg on each side of the knight. She watched his eyes grow wide as her hands rested on his chests and her body properly straddled him.
Ruby:Ifā¦itās okay with you, show me? You might it think itās strange or call it odd butā¦..I think it could only feel normal with you.
Jaune:*deep red* Wow, you really know how to butter someone up, hehe. Uhhā¦*holds her hands* Alright. If thatās really how you feel. Letās be normal then, together.
Ruby:Together. *smiles* I guess I ended up studying after all.
Jaune:I donāt think this will help in class, or be much of an extensive course I fear.
Ruby:Heh, donāt worry about it. After all, *leans forward* itās not like we have anywhere else to be~
AAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!
The end of Final Fantasy VII Revelation is going to be so funny. In the original you could just blatantly miss stuff and characters which makes the end harder. People are going to comb through Revelation side quests and find absolute nonsense.
Theyāre so ready to beat Sephirothās ass. This is a pull up after finding all their best gear. That final Omni Slash is going to look like divine intervention.