Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

In the mountains, in the middle of the snow, a beautiful young girl lay on the snow, she’s a petite woman with long white hair, ice blue eyes, a scar run across her left eye, but it doesn’t blemish her beauty, she is wearing a thin dirty light blue dress, far too thin to be wearing in this kind of weather. She is wounded, with purple marks across face and body and dehydrated. She lay there awaiting death to claim her, for her there’s no more reason to live, no family, no friends, nothing.

‘Freezing to death is not that bad…’ she thought looking at the sky.

CRUNCH!

She heard the sound of something approaching through the snow.

CRUNCH! CRUNCH!

Slowly looking in the direction of the sound, she saw a tall young blond man wearing thick white clothes and a heavy furred black cape on his shoulders. His ocean blue eyes meet her ice blue ones.

“Damned be that man.” he says with barely concealed hatred. “Being persecuted and then left to die in this snowy field. Princess…” he kneels beside her “Don’t give up.” he picks her up in his arms. “I shall take you with me.”

The last thing she hears before losing consciousness is:

“You will be fine now.”

________________________________________________________________________________

3 weeks ago in the Schnee Castle, Empire of Atlas.

“You don’t have to accept this… You just need to get rid of the Princess.” a woman speaks to a man with short white hair and a mustache sitting on a desk. “Before the will of the late king comes to light.”

The man known as Jacques Schnee, former Jacques Gelé, grits his teeth in frustration. He married Willow Schnee in the hopes of becoming the Emperor of Atlas, only to have his plans destroyed by the late king Nicholas Schnee. Jacques had three children with Willow, the oldest is Winter with 23 years of age, the middle child is Weiss with 19 years, and the youngest is Whitley with 15 years. When Nicholas died he left in his will that the one that was the next in the line of succession would be Princess Weiss Schnee, and that she would assume the throne when she reached the age of twenty-one years. Willow and Winter would accept it happily and Whitley couldn't care less, but Jacques, he would not let his own daughter destroy his plans.

Atlas was know as the Kingdom of Snow and Gold, with great gold mines in the snowy mountains all around the kingdom borders, their army was one of the greatest of the world, while they didn’t have great legendary warriors like the Kingdom of Vale, they had the numbers and the best weaponry.

“First you need to send the eldest sister away, since she’s second in command of the army, only below that stiff idiot Ironwood, you could send her to the eastern border to protect it from attacks of the Grimm. Her mother is drunkard, so she’ll present no problem for us. The younger brother, he doesn’t care about her.”

The blonde woman got closer to the desk and looked in Jacques eyes.

“Then you have to incriminate her, for example, fake an assassination attempted in the ball a few weeks from now and accuse the Princess, of course, we shall leave evidence of her hiring the assassin in her room. It shouldn’t be a surprise for her to do something like this, after all, she despises you.”

Jacques looked at the woman.

“Let’s prepare, Salém.”

________________________________________________________________________________

Weiss Schnee, she is known has a perfect, beautiful and intelligent princess. She is a great diplomat, sings for the people and helps build hospitals for the poor. She is a kind princess and is loved by everyone, except for one person, the consort, her father. She got the scar on her left eye protecting her father from the attack of a Grimm know as Armas Gigas, and still her father despised her, out of jealousy.

Klein, her old, faithful butler, was accompanying Weiss to the ballroom, she knew something was up, when her sister was suddenly sent away to the borders, and her mother and little brother to the villa they have in the Kingdom of Argus. She is wearing a white ballroom dress, and a white furred cape, she wears a necklace with a huge sapphire, her long hair is tied on a bun and she wears a silver tiara on her head.

“Your Highness.” said Klein looking very concerned at Weiss. “Maybe you shouldn't…”

'Jacques is planning something. Klein is my most loyal servant. No, he’s the one I could call father. I can’t lose him.'

“Klein. If anything happens to me, don’t hesitate. Run away, go to Argus, find mother and Whitley and help them.”

Klein is taken a back at what Weiss said.

“Why would you say that? How can I do that? I can’t leave you, Snowflake.” Klein has tears in his eyes when he says that.

Weiss smiles at the old nickname.

“Snowflake. It’s has been a long time since I last heard that nickname.”

“Princess…” Klein tries to persuade her.

“Klein. Just open the door.” Weiss says still smiling at him.

Klein clenches his teeth and did as he was told.

As the door opens, the music can be heard as she enters.

“ANNOUNCING! PRINCESS WEISS SCHNEE!” the herald announces and everyone stops what they are doing to look at the princess.

“Look, it’s the princess.” says a tall red haired girl with green eyes, she is wearing a white dress, with a red sash around her waist and golden sandals with high heels. She is talking to a tall blonde haired young man, with ocean blue eyes, that’s wearing white clothes with details in gold. He’s Jaune Miles Arc, and he was sent by the Kingdom of Vale as a diplomat. “She’s pretty.” continued the red haired girl.

“Yes, she’s beautiful.” said Jaune looking at the princess, captivated by her. The red haired girl grinned at him and he noticed. “What’s it Pyrrha?”

“Aren’t you going to talk to her? What did you say that time in Beacon Academy?” Pyrrha grinned at Jaune who groaned at the memory. “Oh! Yes! It was ‘Hi! My name is Jaune, short, sweet, rolls of the tongue and the ladies love it.” she started to giggle at him.

“Shut up Pyr.” he said pouting and she just keeps smiling at him.

Weiss looked at the throne were her father was sitting.

'You aren’t worth to sit on that throne Jacques.' were her thoughts as she walked towards him.

As she approached her father, one of the servants suddenly leaped at Jacques and attacked him with a dagger. The man stabbed Jacques in the right arm as he lifted his arms to protect himself. The man was then subdued by the guards.

Weiss was in shock at what just happened. Jacques with the dagger still in his arm, approached the man on floor being hold by he guards.

“Who sent you?” he asked the man.

The man just groaned and didn’t answer. Jacques then stepped on the man’s hand with enough force to brake it. The man screamed in pain.

“Who. Sent. You?” he asked again.

“P-PRINCESS WEISS.” the man screamed.

All the ballroom fell into silence. As Jacques glared at Weiss.

“You wanted the throne so much, that you would kill your own father?”

“I don’t know that man!” argued Weiss glaring back at her father.

“No arguing. Arrest her! Search her room and her servants rooms. If we find any evidence of your involvement in this, there will be consequences.” Jacques ordered as the guards came and surrounded Weiss.

Jaune looked with wide eyes the scene unfold in front of him. He then glared at Jacques, understanding now what was happening.

‘Idiot! The princess would never do something like that. And you know it. Why would you go to such lengths and do that. Unless… Princess Weiss is the chosen heiress, and you don’t want to lose your power. The people will not simply accept it, they love the princess, what you did now is the beginning of the fall for the Empire of Atlas.’

“Ridiculous…” said Pyrrha beside him, also not believing for a second the accusations of Jacques. “The princess always did her best for Atlas. He wouldn’t kill her, would he?”

“…” Jaune didn’t have an answer for his friend.

________________________________________________________________________________

For many days, Weiss was beaten and tortured in order for her to confess the assassination attempt on her father. She didn’t say a word, and took the beatings silently, not even screaming in pain. The commoners heard of the princess plight, and started protesting, demanding the release of the princess.

Jacques found himself in a great deal of trouble. Many kingdoms withdrew their support for the Empire, since the princess was the one responsible for making the treaties. Sooner or later, General Ironwood and Winter will hear the news, and more trouble will arise for him.

‘Damn, I miscalculated, If I send Weiss to execution, the people will riot, and Ironwood will without a doubt support them, the man hates me after all. So, there’s only one path.’

Weiss was chained to the walls of the cell. When she heard the footsteps of people approaching.

“So, you won’t confess.” she heard the voice of Jacques.

Weiss looks at her father.

“I would have send you to be executed, as is the law. But the people would rebel if I did that. So, the only solution is exile.” he studies her for a moment. “Throw her in the ice mountain on the south. But before you go, a departing gift for you.”

Two soldiers came in the cell caring two small boxes, they open it to reveal the severed heads of her two maids, they weren’t just her maids, for her they were friends.

“Berta, Hilda.” whispered Weiss wide eyed. Soon rage grew inside her. “JACQUES GELÉ!” she screamed and tried to reach him, but the guards held her to the ground. “WHY! WHY DID YOU DO THIS TO ME?”

Jacques doesn’t reply, and just leaves the cell.

“I WILL NEVER FORGIVE YOU! YOU MONSTER!” Weiss screamed at him.

________________________________________________________________________________

Jaune was mounted on his horse, a beautiful, big black stallion that he called Goliath. He was at a mountain, from where he could see the entire city of the capital of Atlas. He glares at the castle.

‘I hope Princess Weiss still lives. Jacques Gelé, you have made an enemy in me with your greed for power.’ Jaune was the first diplomat to announce the end of any type of commerce with Atlas, he had a deal with Princess Weiss and only her. He barely knew her, but he admired her. ‘I don’t know when. But I’m sure, one day I’ll burn that castle to the ground and you with it Gelé.’

Pyrrha was behind him mounted in a white mare.

“Jaune, what are you looking at?” she asked and followed his line of vision.

‘Schnee Castle. Ah!’

“I heard they abandoned her in the mountain south of here. It’s a pity.” she said feeling sad for the princess fate. “She is one of the strongest people that I have ever seen.”

Jaune gritted his teeth and moved his horse in the direction of the south mountain.

“HEY! JAUNE! WHERE ARE YOU GOING?” Pyrrha yelled at him.

“RISE CAMP NEAR THE RIVER SOUTH OF HERE!” Jaune screamed back at her.

“JAUNE?” she screamed again, but he didn’t answer.

________________________________________________________________________________

In the southern mountain.

Weiss lays on the snowy mountain waiting for death.

‘Klein, Hilda, Berta. I’m so sorry. I couldn’t protect you… I just wanted to do my best. I just wanted to be a kind princess. Then why?’ tears would have run down her eyes if she still had tears to cry. ‘Freezing to death is not that bad…’

CRUNCH!

She heard the sound of something approaching through the snow.

CRUNCH! CRUNCH!

“Damned be that man.” he says with barely concealed hatred. “Being persecuted and then left to die in this snowy field. Princess…” he kneels beside her.

‘Dammit, why were you born in Atlas? Why haven’t I meet you sooner?’

“Don’t give up.” he picks her up in his arms. “I shall take you with me.”

He hugs her closer to himself, and a golden aura envelops them both.

“You will be fine now.”

Chapter Text

The ancient texts says that the god of light created the humans, but the humans he created had no emotions, so he gave it to them. Sadness, happiness, anger, hope. The god of light was really happy at what he made, but the god of darkness, wanted to be part of the creation of the humans, so without his brother knowing, he gave the humans evil. The evil made humans fight each other because of trifle things and start wars for nothing. The first death was caused by a human. And the deaths keep spreading. Seeing that, the god of light was enraged by his brother's meddling, so he tore part of his brother’s powers from his body, this power fell over the world, six parts over objects that became relics of extreme power, some on the earth and that created the monstrous Grimm and the rest on humans, these humans developed the power of the Aura, and the more blessed ones had the power of the Semblance.

The Semblances are divided in six categories, Order, Chaos, Nature, Strength, Death and Life. The last one being the rarest of them all.
________________________________________________________________________________

Jaune was carrying princess Weiss with him on top of his horse Goliath, going full speed down the icy mountains in the direction of the camp his company had made at base of it, close to the river. Princess Weiss had passed out and he warped her in his heavy black furred cape in order to keep her warm.

‘I still can’t believe I holding this woman in my arms. It’s surreal. Anyway, I’ll take you home. You have to survive… by all means necessary.’ - Jaune’s was going to protect this girl no matter what, and, if she wishes, kill the man who did this to her. Well he would do that even if she didn’t wish for it, just because he really hate that bastard.

________________________________________________________________________________

Pyrrha was instructing the soldiers in making the camp before Jaune returned. They arrived at the river at the base of the southern mountain.

“Alright. We make camp here for today. Take the barracks from the carts and start rising it.”

She saw the soldiers quickly rising camp, the soldiers from Vale were really well trained, specially their unit, they had been trained by the best warriors of Vale, sadly Ren and Nora were unable to come to this trip to Atlas.

“ACHOOO!” she saw one of the soldiers let out a loud sneeze.

“How can Atlas people live under this kind of weather?” another complained.

She just smiled at them.

“Keep moving so you won’t freeze.”

She then noticed Jaune arriving in Goliath and caring something with him.

“JAUNE! Where did you go?” she approaches him while he got down from Goliath. “Wait! W-Who are you hugging? Don’t tell me… You took her corpse?!”

Jaune walked past her going to his tent.

‘Is he okay?’ - Pyrrha was really worried now.

Jaune quickly moved Weiss to his bed, while doing so, he remembered the first time they meet.

____________________________________________________________________________

One month ago.

“You want to trade valean emerald wood for atlesian steel. I can’t accept that.” said Princess Weiss frowning in the meeting. “Even if you offer double of the weight in wood for the steel it won’t do.”

“How about triple the weight?” Jaune replied smiling. “I’m sure it’s more than a fair trade. If you are still worried, I can sweeten the deal with a trade for valean oranges.”

“What I don’t understand is why you want so much steel. Unless...” Weiss smirked at Jaune. “I see, that’s what this is all about.”

“Wha-What do you mean?” asked Jaune sweating a little.

“I hear that Valean blacksmiths developed a new way of working steel, making it stronger and a better conduit for aura users.” her smirk grew. “You want atlesian steel because it already is a great conductor for aura, and you want to amplify it even more. I can imagine that the soldiers of Vale armed with weapons made of such steel made in this new manner would become a really fearful army.”

‘Damn’ – thought Jaune frustrated as he glared at Weiss,

“I can give you the steel. But in return…” her smirk was infuriating. “Exclusive valean red grapes trading rights. Give them to me.”
_______________________________________________________________________________

‘This woman’ – though Jaune looking at the sleeping Weiss. ‘She got the rights of the grapes that are only grown in Vale. While quite annoying, she is also a brave and precious girl.’

Weiss started to groan and move in pain.

Jaune didn’t think twice, he hugged her and activated his semblance.

“Uhm…” Weiss murmured slowly opening her eyes.

‘Jaune Arc’ – her eyes widened recognizing him – ‘Why is this man hugging me?’

She slapped his face, and covered her chest with her arms.

“Wha-What are you doing?”

“I’m healing you. Calm yourself.” he answered in a calm tone.

“Take me back to the mountain.”

“I want you to live.” he answered to her surprise and approached her again.

“D-Don’t come near me. Just let me die.” she screamed at him.

He looked her in the eyes, and she avoided his gaze.

“You’ll just let it go? After everything he did. Being dishonored, tortured and losing your friends” he raised his voice at her. “You were abandoned after you worked really hard for these people. And now you just want to die in a snowy field?”

“Yes.” Weiss answered biting her lower lip. “Now that I remember, Vale and Atlas never had the best relationship. I’m your enemy. So kill your enemy.” she took his hands and guided them to her neck. “Don’t say anything. Just kill me.” she said looking in his eyes, that widened after hearing her request. “I don’t want to be persecuted anymore. Kill me… Please…”

‘What she says isn’t wrong. Atlas is the enemy of Vale, she is the enemy.’ - his hands tightened a little around her neck. - ‘Her neck is so fragile… with a bit of strength I can break it easily…’ - he looked into her ice blue eyes that were void of all emotion except desperation and something else. - ‘Those beautiful blue eyes, I can make them close forever. But…'

He released her neck.

“You say you want to die. But I can see you truly don’t want to.”

She looked surprised at him.

“What do you mean?” she looked confused.

He took her right leg in his hands, activating his semblance while doing so.

“What are you doing? Stop.” she screamed at him trying to free her leg from his hands, but was too weak to do so.

“Like I said. I’m healing you. Don’t move.”

“I don’t want it. Stop immediately.”

“Like you said, I’m your enemy. So I will do everything I want.”

“Please… Stop it.” he could feel her trembling. “Please…”

He looked up and saw her eyes shut tightly.

‘Please? No, that’s not how she is…’ - Jaune gritted his teeth and saw her opening her eyes.

“If you want me to stop. Then stand up, Princess.” he got really close to her face and looked in her eyes. “You are asking me to stop? Ridiculous. If you want something then stand up and fight. Fight and take it.”

‘Like when you took the rights for the grapes. Take it by all means.’

“Don’t just let yourself be harmed.” he continued. “Fight for it. Isn’t that what you do?”

She looked at him surprised, but stayed silent. He let out a sight.

“For now, rest.” he pushed her down on the bed, she struggled a little. “Calm down. Just lie down and sleep.” she was sleeping almost the moment her head hit the pillow, he covered her up and got up from the bed going outside the tent.

________________________________________________________________________________

Schnee Castle – Atlas

Jacques was standing in his office looking outside the window, a knight from Atlas was kneeling in the middle of the room.

“Are you sure she is dead?”

“Yes, I’m sure.”

Jacques turned to the knight.

“The body was not found, how can you be sure?”

“I found the blood, it’s obviously the work of wild animals.”

“And the relic?”

The knight started to sweat in fear.

“It… It hasn’t been found yet.” he answered fearfully. “We believe it was stolen.”

“That’s impossible. She had it until recently. She couldn’t have hidden it far from here. Search in all the places the princess visited. Bring that relic to me.” Jacques screamed at the knight.

“Yes, sir.” he got up. “May Ohm, shine his blessings over the emperor.” the knight then left.

Jacques then started to fell dizzy and nauseous. He fell to his knees.

The Gelé family received the semblance of death. The power varies depending on the strength of the person. And Jacques is weak. This power quietly sow disease in the body of the victim, slowly killing it. But the price to pay for the use of this power is that the user will have a backlash. In Jacques case, he used his power to kill many allies of Weiss, and now he’s paying the price. He can’t use this power to kill anyone of his family, be it the ones who share blood or the ones that got in the family by marriage, this only proves that the gods condemn kin slaying.

Jacques then looked up from the floor and saw the portraits of the members of the Schnee family, his eyes paused on Weiss portrait. Screaming in fury he raised from the floor and ripped the portrait from the wall tossing it to the ground.

The guards came running inside the room.

“Your Majesty, are you alright?”

Jacques keeps looking at the portrait on the floor, before another dizzy spell hit him, he then vomited blood on the floor before passing out.

Chapter Text

The Valean army, commanded by Jaune, marched trough the green fields of Vale. On top of Jaune’s horse, Goliath, he carries with him the Princess of Atlas, Weiss Schnee, wearing a light white dress and with a white cape that covered her head and a veil covering her face. Beside him is Pyrrha in her white mare.

‘It’s so hot. Must be summer. I should have died in that mountain.’ - Weiss was sweating a lot, not accustomed to the heat. ‘Instead, I came with this man.’ - she opened her eyes and looked at Jaune. - ‘How many days have been now?’ - She looked at her hands now free of all wounds. - ‘It’s incredible. I feel a lot better without any medicine.’ - she looked back at Jaune.

“How are you feeling?” She heard Jaune talking to her.

“Even though you have saved me, some day, I will die again.”

Jaune smiled at her.

“I don’t care. No matter how many times. I will always save you.”

Weiss glared at Jaune for a moment, before turning her eyes away from him.

Jaune then smirked and looked in front of him, seeing the capital city of the kingdom of Vale.

“We have arrived.” he said to her. She also looked in the same direction. “This is my country, Vale.”

The army marched to the city and the gates opened for them. With many people cheering for them.

“THEY HAVE RETURNED!” some yelled.

“THE RUSTED KNIGHT IS BACK!”

“THE INVICIBLE GIRL!”

“ARC! ARC! ARC!”

“PYRRHA! PYRRHA!”

The cheering was deafening. Man, woman, children and elders all calling out for the two most known warriors of Vale.

Jaune looked down at Weiss, seeing her with her eyes closed, having passed out.

'Damn, heatstroke.'

“Pyrrha.” the champion that was waving at the people turned her attention to Jaune.

“Yes?”

“I have some things to do, you do the report to her majesty.” he quickly turned Goliath in the direction of his house.

“What? HEY! JAUNE!” she yelled at him. “Not again.” she muttered pouting.

________________________________________________________________________________

Jaune’s mansion.

“Ah! My Lord! Welcome back. You arrived early.” an old man, Peter Port, greeted Jaune as he dismounted. He is like a father to Jaune, and have served his family for many years. “Come everyone, welcome our lord.” Many maids quickly gathered at the door. He then noticed the girl in Jaune’s arms.

“Thank you, I’m back!”

“Who is that my lord?”

He followed Jaune to the master bedroom. Jaune goes inside carrying Weiss and turned to Port.

“Bring me some cold water and a washing cloth.” he said before closing the door.

Jaune lays her on the bed, took off the large cape that Weiss was wearing and her dress, she had a white nightgown under her clothes. He checked her arms and legs, and was satisfied seeing that she had no wounds. Then there was a knocking on the door, opening the door Jaune saw a bunny faunus girl with long brown hair wearing a maids outfit.

“Welcome home, My Lord. Mr. Port asked to bring you this.” she said presenting him a bowl filled with water and a cloth.

“Thank you, Velvet.” said Jaune taking the bowl. “Don’t let anyone get near my room for now.”

“Yes, My Lord.”

Jaune closed the door, and moved to the bed, setting the bowl on the nightstand. He wet the cloth in the cold water and put it on Weiss’ forehead.

Weiss woke up as soon as the wet cloth touched her.

“HA!!” she screamed.

“Calm down, you passed out because of a heatstroke. You lived your entire live in that cold kingdom, it will take sometime to get acclimated to Vale.”

“Where am I?” she looks around the room.

“My mansion. More specifically my bedroom.”

“Your bedroom?” she looked around. - ‘It’s a large room, and the furniture looks expensive. I thought he was just a knight that got famous, but could he be a member of the royal family?’

She then saw a dagger in the nightstand close to the bowl of water.

“What are looking at?” Jaune asked her.

She sat on the bed and slowly moved to side.

“Sir Arc… Saving me is the wrong choice.” she moved a little more to the edge of the bed

Jaune smiled and looked in her eyes.

“Right or wrong doesn’t matter. I made my decision.”

She smirked at him.

“You are so arrogant.”

“As are you.” he smirked back at her.

“And what’s your purpose in bringing me here?”

“Purpose?” he looked confused at her.

His eyes traveled from her eyes, to her lips and finally to her modest breasts covered by the white thin nightgown.

She quickly covered her chest with her arms.

“So, the great Jaune Arc, The Rusted Knight, is a pervert who lusts after women. I didn’t know that.” she glared at him.

“I'm not a pervert who lust after women.” he glared back at her. He then got a contemplative look and rubbed the back of his neck. “To be honest, you are the first person I felt attracted to.”

“If it’s a woman that you need, then find someone else. There must be a lot of beauties around here, like that friend of yours.” she said seriously.

“Of course, Pyrrha is indeed beautiful.” he said, then smiled at Weiss. “But she is not you.”

“You say it like you want only me.” she moved a little more.

“Yes. It’s only you that I want.”

She reached the edge of the bed.

“This is foolish. I have nothing left.”

“Non-sense. You have a lot of things. You just need look a little deeper in yourself and you will see what I see.” he looks serious at her. “I want all of you.”

“Then, I have to apologize.” she quickly moved and took the dagger from the nightstand. Jaune eyes widened seeing her moving the dagger to her neck. “But I can’t become yours.”

Jaune quickly slapped the dagger from her hands, but she had already made a large cut in her neck.

“Dammit.” he took Weiss in his arms. “Stupid. Why would you do that?” Jaune quickly actives his semblance as he covers Weiss wound with his hand.

‘Thank the gods, the cut is not deep.’

He looked angrily at her after making sure her neck is healed.

“How dare you try to kill yourself in front of me.” she weakly opened her eyes and looked at him.

‘Strange. Someone that I knew all my life wanted me dead. And someone that have know me for a little more than a month wants to save me.’ - she saw the desperation in his eyes.

“Don’t give up.” he hugged her closely, burying his face on her shoulder. “I can give you more then one reason to keep living. I just found something that I was looking for a long time and I’m not going to lose you now.”

_______________________________________________________________________________

Pyrrha arrived at the castle of the Queen of Vale, Joan Goodwitch. Said Queen was outside waiting for their arrival.

“Pyrrha, I’m happy to see you are back.”

“Your majesty.” she greeted back and dismounted from her mare. “Thank you for your kindness. We are back safely.” she bowed to the blonde haired queen.

“You came back early.” she looked around. “Where is Jaune?”

“Ah… That…” - ‘Dammit Jaune.’ - “He was tired from the trip, the emperor consort of Atlas got Jaune so angry that he almost caused an international incident. So he have gone back to his mansion to rest.”

Joan pondered a little, then smiled.

“I see. Can’t really blame him. Just looking at Jacques Schnee face can make anyone angry. Such a hideous creature he is. Maybe I should visit Jaune, he’s my little brother after all.” Joan said looking a little worried.

“Y-Your majesty.” Pyrrha really didn’t want to see the bloodbath that will occur when Joan finds the princess of Atlas in Jaune’s mansion. “Don’t you want to hear what the Atlas emperor did when we were there?”

Joan pondered a little.

“Very well. We shall have a party to welcome you all back.” She smiled and then turned to the soldiers. “Great job my knights.” she yelled at them.

The soldiers cheered after receiving the praise of their queen.

________________________________________________________________________________

Jaune’s Mansion

Jaune was hugging Weiss, while healing her.

“Mmmm…” Weiss was trying to push Jaune away from her. “S-Stop.” she says after Jaune finally releases her. “Ung…” she grits her teeth and glares at him. ‘I’m feeling better.’

“You understand now. You can’t die anymore.” her glare intensified. “Don’t look at me like that. I’m the one who should be angry at you for what you just tried to pull here.”

“Leave me alone, Jaune.”

“I can’t.” he answered quickly.

“Why? Why are you so persistent?”

“Because, I know you want to live.”

“You know nothing.” she glared at him.

“I know more then you think about death, Princess, I have seen much more of it then you. So, yes, I know when someone really is ready to die and when someone isn’t. And you is not. So, just lie down and get some rest while I get my staff to prepare a warm bath for you.”

“Do I look like the kind of person who obey your orders?” he look surprised at her.

‘Good.’ he smiles at her. ‘That’s the princess of Atlas that I remember. Compared to how you were acting, this is a great improvement.’

“Come on, lie down.” he moves to touch her shoulder only to have his hand slapped away.

“STOP IT!” she yells at him.

He stares at her. Before smiling again.

“Very well.” she looks up surprised, not expecting for him to agree so quickly. “If you don’t want me to, I won’t do anything. I won’t touch you unless it is to save your live.”

She let out a sigh.

“Don’t you hate me? Why don’t you let me die?”

“I don’t hate you, I never did… Well, I hate your father, but that’s it..” he got up from kneeling in front of Weiss. “Anyway, I see you have your strength back, thanks to my semblance.”

“I didn’t ask you for that.” she glared at him again.

“If you have no reason to live. Then how about this?” he smirked ignoring her complains. “Saving your family’s legacy. Maybe revenge? The fall of your father?”

Her eyes widened.

Chapter Text

Weiss was visiting a village in the outskirts of Atlas with Winter and her father. They had discovered a new veil of gold close by. The problem is, the operations on the mine attracted Grimms, that attacked the village right when they were visiting. While the soldiers and Winter took care of the horde of Boarbatusks, Jacques ran away in fear leaving Weiss behind, and said fear made him the target of an Armas Gigas. The knight like creature was at least 3 meters tall, and it made a bee line in the direction of Jacques, the consort would have died right there, if not for Weiss, that got between the monster and her father, with a sword her sister had given her as a birthday gift, in hand. She tried to stab the creature armor, but it proved futile, the Armas Gigas then slapped Weiss away, that crashed in a nearby house, but Weiss won’t stop. Getting up, she rushed the creature, when it attacked her, she quickly jumped to the side avoiding the blow, and taking advantage of it’s slow movements stabbed it in the hole of it’s helmet, effectively killing it. She looked to her father and saw him trembling in fear on the ground, she felt disgust seeing him like that. Only after that she realized that she had been wounded when the Armas Gigas slapped her, that’s how she got the scar in her left eye.

Weiss then woke up.

“A dream…” she sat up on her bed and rubbed her forehead. ‘Has it been 2 years already?’

Weiss looks around the room spotting a door leading to the balcony. She opened the door and walked outside. Her eyes widened seeing the beauty of the sea. Even at night the scenery was breathtaking.

‘This… Is this the sea that I have heard so much about?’ she smiled. ‘Turns out, that such a beautiful place exist in this world.’ she then climbed the parapet of the balcony. ‘At least this I have to thank Jaune for.’ she sat on the parapet. Only for her to be lifted up. She groaned, knowing exactly what was happening.

“It seems I can’t neglect you, even when you are sleeping.” Jaune was hugging her waist and bringing her close to his body.

“You really are a Dolt...” She turned her head looking at him.

He looked serious at her, then changed his hold and now carried her in a princess hold.

“Don’t make me break my promise to you.”

She looked confused at what he said.

“If you get hurt or sick, I’ll use my power in the most effective way possible to heal you. But, you already knew that.”

She glares at him.

“If you already know and still do those things… Then that means... You are looking forward to it.”

“WHAT?” Her eyes widened in surprise at the conclusion he reached.

“Next time tell me directly. You don’t need to hurt yourself, you just need to ask.”

“STOP TALKING NON-SENSE. YOU DUNCE!”

He just smiled at her, while she glared at him as he carried her back inside the house.

“Let’s go for a walk. There’s something I want to show you.”

“I DON’T WANNA GO! LET GO OF ME!!!!” she keeps yelling.

Few minutes later they were riding on top of Goliath. Weiss keep mumbling curses at Jaune who paid it no mind.

“Where are you taking me?” she finally asked.

“Somewhere beautiful.” was the answer. “Hold tight.”

“Humpf.” she scowled and looked away from him.

‘She looks a lot better. Thank the gods. This power of mine, is a blessing and a curse. It attracts the attention of unwanted people, I have been told that it is the rarest power that exists among the semblances, it not only heals but makes people stronger. The previous king wanted to use me in his wars, thanks to Joan, that rebelled against that tyrant, I was saved from such a fate.’

“...une.” he heard faintly. “JAUNE ARC!”

“Ah! What?” he was brought back from his musings by Weiss yelling his name.

“Where are we?”

“This is the Emerald Forest. I want you to meet someone.” he smiled at her.

They dismounted the horse, with Jaune helping her.

“Here. Hold my hand.” he tells her extending his hand to her.

“I can go by myself.” she answered immediately.

“It’s very dark and the path is dangerous. It’s just my hand, hold it.” he offered his hand again.

Reluctant she took it. He just held her hand softly as they walked the dark path.

“This way, we are almost there.”

She then sees a beautiful blue and silver light in the direction they are going.

“Ah! We are here.”

The light was coming from the reflection of the moon on the large lake. It was beautiful, like looking in a mirror reflecting the moon.

Jaune then whistled loudly.

“What was-” Weiss started to say before she saw something small and silver colored running towards them.

“There she is, come here Neige.” Jaune kneels on the ground and the small silver thing came running to him.

Weiss now could see what it was.

“A silver furred fox?” she said surprised, the little fox was really cute, and by the way she was snuggling to Jaune, very friendly.

“Almost right, she is a Moonlight Fox. During the day her fur is white, but in the nights it changes the color according to the phase of the moon, today is a full moon so her fur becomes silver.” explained Jaune petting the fox.

“Why is she so friendly with you?”

“I saved her from hunters when she was just a cub and took her home since her mother had been killed. I raised her. When we got back, I didn’t see her in the mansion, so I knew she would be here playing around.”

“I see.” she keep looking at fox that was happily purring.

“Come on. Pet her, I know you want to.” he grinned at her.

“Hmmphf.” she glared at Jaune, but still got to her knees and started to pet Neige, she slowly smiled at the softness of her fur.

“I want her to keep you company when I’m not with you.”

Weiss looked at Jaune and nodded. Neige was too cute to resist.

______________________________________________________________________________

In the Queen’s palace.

“FOR VALE’S GLORY” the knights at the banquet shouted.

“Cheers!” says Joan lifting her wine glass.

Pyrrha was drinking her wine when Joan approached her.

“Say Pyrrha. I heard that Jaune brought something from Atlas.”

Pyrrha spitted her wine in surprise.

“W-What are you talking about your majesty?”

“I’m just curious.” Joan smirked at Pyrrha.

“He had nothing with him last time I saw him.” she answered nervously.

‘It’s not a lie. He brought someone, not something.’

“Is that so.” Joan keeps looking at Pyrrha suspiciously.

_________________________________________________________________________

In the morning, Pyrrha took her horse and made a bee line for Jaune’s mansion. She was received by Port.

“Lady Pyrrha. What brings you here so early?”

“Good morning. Where’s Jaune? I must speak with him.” she quickly goes inside the mansion, going directly do Jaune’s room.

“Wait, Lady Pyrrha, you must not go inside.” Port warned, but it was too late, she had already opened the door.

“Jaune, wake… up…” she froze seeing Jaune rising from his bed, a white haired young woman sleeping beside him and Neige sleeping between them.

“Pyr?”

“S-Sorry!” she blushed and quickly left the room closing the door.

Port guided her to the living room of the mansion. She sat down still blushing.

“I warned you to not go inside.” Port said offering her a glass of water.

“I’m sorry.” she wouldn’t look up, embarrassed by what she saw.

“Calm down, Lady Pyrrha. It’s not what you think. He was just keeping her company, making sure she was alright.”

Pyrrha lifted her head and drank from the water, remembering her time in Beacon Royal Academy with Jaune, Nora and Ren. Her family had been accused of treason by the late king, Jaune being her best friend had also been dragged in the mess. In the end it was all an excuse for the king to try and get his hands on Jaune’s power. It was avoided, thanks to Joan starting the rebellion, and taking the throne herself.

The door of the living room opened, and Jaune appeared with Neige following him, the little fox saw Pyrrha and jumped on her lap.

“Good morning Pyrrha. What brings you here so early in the morning?” he spoke as if nothing had happened.

“Joan… Her majesty knows.” she says while petting Neige’s head.

“Knows what?” Jaune said feigning innocence.

“Don’t do that Jaune. She knows you brought something from Atlas. One of the knights must have told her.” she rubbed her forehead. “Are you going to tell her?”

“No.” he answered smiling.

________________________________________________________________________________

Weiss was sitting in a dark place, in front of her in pedestals were the heads of her two maids Berta and Hilda, she was crying non stop.

“Berta, Hilda. I’m sorry, I’m so so sorry.” she keeps repeating.

“Weiss.” she heard from behind her, and felt a familiar and comforting touch on her shoulder. “I should have protected you better my snowflake. I’m sorry for having left you with that monster.”

“No, Grandfather. It’s not your fault.” she held her grandfather hand in hers before it disappeared.

She found herself in the top of a mountain and smiled.

“Don’t worry grandfather, I’m going to you.”

She throws herself down the mountain just for someone to catch her. She saw that Jaune was the one holding her.

“No matter how many times you give up. I will save you by all means necessary.”

“Just leave me alone.” she looked down. “I have no reason to live on.”

“If you don’t have a reason then create one.” his got closer to her and he whispered in her ears. “How about revenge?”

“I DON’T NEED IT!” she pushed him away from her.

“Then.” he took a lock of her white hair in his hand and kissed it. “How about loving me?”

Weiss woke up with a gasp. And started to blush remembering the end of her dream.

‘Love… me…’ her blush got more intense.

“You woke up.” someone said from beside the bed. She turned and saw a bunny faunus girl with long brown hair wearing maids clothing and two young girls who looked almost identical, except for their hair, one had white hair like Weiss and the other blonde with black tips and both have blue eyes, the white haired one was wearing a blue dress and the blonde a pink one.

“I’m Velvet, and Lord Jaune asked me to take care of you.” the bunny girl smiled at Weiss.

“I’m Blanche and this is Noir, we’re twins.” said the one with white hair.

“You have such beautiful hair. How about we brush it?” said Velvet.

Weiss turned her eyes to her hands, and then started to cry.

“Wha, what’s wrong?” asked Velvet worried.

The twin girls ran out of the room.

“BROTHER! BROTHER!” they were screaming.

Jaune came out of the living room to see what the commotion was about.

“Blanche! Noir! Calm down. Don’t run, you might fall.”

“That lady. The beautiful lady that is in your room. She’s crying.”

Jaune runs passing the two. The twins look at each other.

“For real?” says Blanche.

They grin at each other. That’s the first time they have seen Jaune so worried about a girl that is not a member of his household.

In the room Velvet was hugging Weiss, that was crying on her shoulder.

“Shh, shhh. Valm, Valer. Valm, Valer. Everything will be alright.” said Velvet patting her back.

‘Valm, Valer. It’s a blessing from Menagerie, it’s asking for the blessing of the god of light. She is like a nanny… but is too young to be one… right?’

Noticing that Weiss had stopped crying, she released her from the hug and looks at her face.

“Let me get you a glass of water.”

The door of the room opened abruptly and a worried Jaune got inside.

“Lord Jaune. Welcome back.” Velvet greeted her employer.

Weiss quickly turned her face trying to hide that she was crying. Jaune walked towards her.

“I shall wait outside.” Velvet leaves the room.

“Why are you crying?” he asked as soon as Velvet left, looking worried at her. “Are you hurt?”

“My eye hurts. So I want to rest.” she answered not looking in his eyes. ‘What a lame excuse…’

Jaune looks at her scar. “Your eye?”

Jaune holds her head, so she wouldn’t move. And touches her scar activating his semblance.

“HEY!” she screams. But soon calms down feeling the warmth of his semblance.

She remembers the looks of disgust every time her father saw her scar.

“Don’t you find my scar disgusting?” she asked after he released.

“No. I think it is beautiful.” he answered honestly.

“You really never gets embarrassed, do you?” she let out a sigh.

He just chuckles.

“Talking to you makes me tired.” she groaned and fell back on the bed.

“Maybe you are hungry.”

She opens her eyes and looks at him, seeing him offering his hand to her.

“Let’s find something for you to eat.”

Once again she sighed before taking his hand.

________________________________________________________________________

On a wagon leaving Atlas.

“He abandoned the princess on the south mountain?” asked the driver. “Is he crazy?”

“Shh… Don’t be so loud. You never knows who is listening.” said the one sitting beside him.

“That man is inviting a rebellion. He’s not even a true Schnee.”

While the two were talking, a boy was hiding in the middle of their products. He was remembering the request princess Weiss had made for him before all this mess started.

“Oscar take this necklace and go to Argus.” she smiled at Oscar. “Find my mother and deliver it to her.”

‘When I touched the necklace it transformed into a bracelet. What an amazing piece. I wonder what else can it do.’

“HELP!!!” he heard the driver screaming.

“What is going on?”

Suddenly someone opened the back door of the wagon. He saw four masked men.

“This boy could be useful.” one of them said. “Bring him out.”

Oscar was pulled out.

“Oh! He’s a student of Atlas Academy.”

“LET ME GO!” he screamed, only for one of the men to cover his mouth and nose with a rag. And soon his vision went dark as he lost consciousness.

Chapter Text

Jaune and Weiss were on the balcony that faced the sea of Vale, a table with many different types of pastries were in front of them. Neige was munching something on her plate at the foot of the table. Weiss was looking out at the sea.

‘It’s so beautiful, even more then it was during the night.’ she smiled and Jaune noticed.

“You like the sea?”

“It’s my first time seeing it.” she answered still smiling and not looking at him.

“Really?” he looked surprised. “How come? Atlas has seas too.”

“Because I couldn’t leave the castle. I had my duties as a princess of the empire.”

“I see.” he was saddened by her answer.

Weiss looked down at her plate, she saw those pastries before, but not with that red thing on it.

“What’s this?”

“Scones.” Jaune said simply.

“I know that, you dunce.” her eyebrow twitched in annoyance. “I meant this red thing on it.”

“Oh! That’s red grape jam.” he answered. “And that reminds me. The trading rights for the red grapes with Atlas were revoked.”

She looked surprised at Jaune.

“Why is that?”

“I made the deal, with Queen Joan’s approval of course, with you, not your father. When he abandoned you in the mountains, he also abandoned the deal.”

“I see.” she then picked up a scone and took a bite, smiling at the sweet taste.

Jaune smiled, seeing her enjoying it.

She looked back at sea.

‘I hope Oscar was able to reach my mother in Argus.’

“Your eyes changed.” Jaune comment brings her back from her musings. “It makes me wonder. Why did you want to die?”

“I…” she looks away from Jaune. “I couldn’t protect anyone.”

“You think that was your fault?”

“Yes.” was the simple answer while she keeps looking at the sea.

“Strange.” his finger tapped the table two times. “Why their deaths are an excuse for yours?”

Weiss eyes widened, and enraged she stands up from her chair.

“EXCUSE? HOW DARE YOU?”

“Not being able to protect someone is a crime?” he continued as if she hadn’t screamed at him just now. “Who told you that you have to pay for their deaths with your own?”

He looks into her eyes.

“Do you think they want you to die?”

“They… don’t…” she answered looking at the table, unable to meet Jaune’s eyes.

“Ah! So you know they don’t want you to die, and still you disregard their wishes.”

Weiss grits her teeth.

“If I die protecting the woman I love.” continues Jaune. “And she blames herself for it, not even the grim reaper itself would be able to hold me back from going to her just to say that I’m fine, that she shouldn’t blame herself and that she should live a happy life.” Weiss started to cry in front of him sitting on her chair. “I would tell her to move on.”

Neige jumped on Weiss lap, and started to lick her face trying to console the princess.

________________________________________________________________________________

It was dark, Jacques couldn’t see anything in the place. He keeps walking in the empty place.

“Hello? Anyone here?”

“Jacques Gelé.” he heard a familiar voice answering his calls.

Turning he saw something that filled him with fear. In front of him was the late Emperor of Atlas, Nicholas Schnee, even in his old age, he was an imposing figure, taller than Jacques, and with a stronger physique.

“I made a mistake in allowing you to become consort of my daughter.” the ghost almost spat on Jacques face. “And a person like you, becoming emperor? You are so greedy and foolish that I had to make Weiss my heir. You should have let her assume the throne, that way the empire would have prospered and you would have become richer.”

“NO! I would not let you give away the throne to that stupid girl. The throne of Atlas is mine, and mine alone.” Jacques screamed back at Nicholas.

“FOOL!” The ghost eyes shined in spectral blue light. “What you did to my grand-daughter will be paid back ten times more. A Schnee always sat on the throne of Atlas, and you are not a Schnee. You will burn and Atlas will burn with you, because of your decision.”

“NO!!!” Jacques awoke from his nightmare covered in sweat, His hands were shaking in fear.

“I’m the emperor. Atlas is mine, no one else.” He muttered still shaking trying to convince himself that it was just a dream.

________________________________________________________________________________

Weiss was sleeping when some noise awoke her.

“Hmmm… No…”

She looked at the source of the noise and saw it was Jaune turning in his sleep.

“Jaune?”

“No! No!” he muttered.

“Hey! What’s wrong?” she touched his arm and recoiled as a golden aura enveloped his body. “Ja-Jaune?”

Suddenly Jaune opened his eyes and jumped from the bed, his entire body glowing. Weiss jumped back surprised. Jaune kneels on the ground.

“Jaune?” she reached for him.

“Don’t come here. Stay there.”

She froze looking at him.

“Come on. Dammit.” his golden aura diminished slowly, until it was gone.

“Are you alright? Let me call Velvet.” she touched his shoulder.

“No” he said to her, putting his hand over hers on his shoulder.

“It’s because of your semblance? I guess the ones that work here don’t know about it.”

“It’s dangerous for them to know.”

“Then…” she gulped. “Can… Can I help?”

Jaune turns to her surprised.

“Are you serious?”

Weiss blushed and nodded at him.

“Then… Thank you. Truly, thank you Weiss.” he called her by her name for the first time, before bringing her close to him and hugging her, and also for the first time, she hugged him back.

The next morning.

Velvet was going to her employer room, to wake him and his ‘guest’ up, it was almost noon now after all. She was about to knock on the door when she heard the white haired girl yells from inside the room.

“STOP IT! LET ME SLEEP JAUNE!”

‘W-What?’ she glued her bunny ears to the door trying to listen more clearly, with her face really red.

“Just a little more.” she heard Jaune’s voice.

‘Oh My!’

“That’s enough, we have been doing this all night. I want to sleep.” she heard the girl whining at him.

‘ALL NIGHT! WOW! That’s amazing.’ she got away from the door, whipping a little blood from her nose ‘Better leave them for today. If it was Princess Blake listening she would have written an entire novel just from what I heard.’

Inside the room

‘I know I offered to help him. But I didn’t think he could be so... enthusiastic. He have been transferring the excess aura to me all night.’ she looked at his smiling face. ‘At first I thought of him as an annoying jerk, but now I can’t help it… He’s so kind. I have to admit, I’m lucky that he’s the one that found me in that mountain.” soon after that she fell asleep.

Jaune seeing her closing her eyes, covered them both with the blanket, before hugging her close.

“Weiss…” he whispered to her. “While you act cold, I know how kind you really are. Such a lovely woman.”

He then heard someone shouting.

“Your Majesty. Please wait a moment.”

‘Crap.’ Jaune knew his sister wouldn’t leave him in peace.

He quickly dressed himself,

Arriving at the entrance of the mansion. He saw Joan and two servants of hers discussing with Port and Velvet.

“Ah!” Joan smiled seeing him. “Hey! Jau-Jau, why didn’t you come to the palace for the party?”

“What are you doing here so early, your majesty?”

“Your Majesty?” she said, glaring at Jaune.

“Ugh! Fine.” he smiled at her. “I’m home, Sis.” he then hugged her.

“That’s better.” she hugged him back. “And it’s not early, It’s long past noon already.”

“Really?” he yawned.

“Well then, let’s go to your room and talk.”

“My bedroom?” he looked a little nervous. “It’s better if we go to the living room.”

“Why is that Jaune?” she glared at her brother.

“No reason. Anyway, why did you come here? I was going to the palace later today.”

“This late?” she beamed at Jaune. “Were you going to spend the night?”

“Nope. But I was going to spend some time with you.”

“Hmmm… Jaune, you are looking really suspicious right now.” Jaune was about to say something, but Joan raised her hand. “I already know you brought something from Atlas. And since you didn’t came to report to me, I came here to check what it was. It’s in your bedroom isn’t it.”

Jaune blushed a little before answering.

“Joan, stay very calm at what I’m about to say.” he took a deep breath. “There’s a woman inside my bedroom.”

Joan eyes widened and she paled.

“No, I don’t believe it.” she denied. “My innocent, cute little brother wouldn’t do it, it’s not possible.”

Velvet and the two servants started to giggle hearing Joan and Port just smiled.

“Joan, I’m not a child anymore, I just…”

He was interrupted as Joan pushed past him and ran to his bedroom.

“Where’s she?” she screamed. “Who is the woman that tempted my cute Jau-Jau?”

‘Oh Shit!’ Jaune runs after Joan, trying to stop a possible bloodbath.

“YOU CAN’T HIDE!”

Joan got inside Jaune’s bedroom, marched to his bed and pulled the covers.

“LET’S SEE WHO YOU ARE!”

She stops surprised, seeing a startled white haired girl with blue eyes looking fearfully at her.

“Who?” asked Joan

Jaune groaned at his sister.

“Joan, you are scaring her.”

'White hair and sapphire blue eyes. Where have I seen those before?' she thought for a bit. “She is from Atlas, isn’t she?”

“Sis, I don’t know what they told you. But I shall tell you, indeed I brought her from Atlas and there is a good reason for it.” he had a sad look on his face.

“You never showed interest for any woman that came after you, and now I see you trying to hide this from me. Tell me, brother. Who is she?”

“Jaune, wer ist sie? Deine Frau?” (Jaune, who is she? Your wife?) Weiss spoke in atlesian.

‘Nice one Weiss.’

“As you can see Joan, she only speaks in atlesian.” he turned to Weiss. “Das ist meine schwester Joan. Ich bin nicht verheiratet.” (This is my sister Joan. I’m not married.)

“Hmm… and what’s the reason you brought her here?”

“I found her almost dead in the mountains of Atlas, she was taken by soldiers that served the consort, thankfully she was able to escape before they raped her. It was by luck that I came across her.” Jaune explained cringing inside his mind, lying to Joan was something he never did.

“I see.” Joan turned to Weiss. “What is your name?”

Weiss keeping her charade looked confused at Joan.

“Oh! Right. Wie heisst du?” (What is your name?)

“Whisper.” answered Weiss smiling at Joan.

After that and talking to Jaune a little more, Joan left to go back to the palace. Weiss stayed in bed, looking trough the window.

‘So, Queen Joan Goodwitch is his sister, that means he is a prince? And he never showed interest in other woman. But why me? Wait, that means he only acted like that with me? What does that mean? It can’t be.’ she started to blush, not wanting to believe the conclusion she reached.

“What are you thinking about, Snow Angel?” Jaune asked seeing her expression, Weiss didn’t realize that he came back from accompanying Joan to the door. “Afraid that my sister would chase you away?”

She glared at Jaune.

“Don’t treat me like a fool. What do you want?”

“You asked that question already. And I already answered it.”

“You want me.”

“Good, you remember.”

“Then, what are your intentions?”

He looked serious at Weiss and sat on the bed.

“You don’t need to be suspicious of me. I will not joke or lie to you. When I say that I want you, I didn’t mean just your body Weiss, I saw the kindness in you, the sadness too, and I fell in love with what I saw.”

Weiss blushed and looked away from Jaune, her suspicions about him confirmed.

________________________________________________________________________________

The morning of the next day

Jaune and Weiss were having breakfast in the balcony. Weiss was wearing a white dress with silver details and accessories. And Jaune was wearing white pants and a black shirt.

“What happened that night. Will it happen again?” Weiss asked.

Jaune thought a little before answering.

“Maybe.”

“Was that because of your semblance?”

“It was.”

“Because you used it to save me.”

“Not exactly. When I used it to save you, it didn’t turn off like it should, so it increased my aura non stop to the point it started to become dangerous. When I hugged you, little by little, I transferred the aura to you. Until we both got stable. And I most say your aura pool is really large.”

“I see. There is something I’m curious about. Your nickname, Rusted Knight, even in Atlas you are quite famous. But I never understood, how you got that alias.”

Jaune looked a little bothered by the question.

“Well, I said that I would not lie to you. You know about the civil war that happened in Vale some years ago, I presume.” he saw Weiss nod at him. “Do you know the reason it started?”

“I believe it was because many people were dissatisfied with the previous king.”

“Somewhat true. But not the real reason. It was because of me.” Weiss looked surprised at Jaune. “Well, because of my power, the previous king saw what my power could do, and wanted to take advantage of it. He even started to go after my friends families in order to blackmail me. Joan was a general of the army at the time, when she saw what that tyrant was doing, she gathered all the soldiers loyal to her and everyone that wanted that monster gone, and rebelled.” he took a deep breath. “When the king heard of it, he ordered the execution of my little sister Rouge and my mother Juniper right in front of me, the shock of it made me activate my semblance and use it on myself, I kinda of blacked out then. When I came to, Joan was in front of me, crying, and all the soldiers and nobles around me, were death, my armor was in the color of rust, because it was drenched in their blood.”

The shock was evident in Weiss eyes.

“You went berserk.”

“Berserk… that’s a good name for it. Here we call it blood fury, but berserk sounds better. There were at least 30 people there, all died by my hands, including the one that executed my mother and sister. That’s why I made an oath, I’ll only use my power to save lives, not take them. Anyway, after that, Joan killed the king and assumed the throne under the name Joan Goodwitch, my mother’s maiden name. My father died in the war also, I’m told he fought the royal guard alone, killed all of them before succumbing to his injures.”

“Then, you are a prince of Vale, aren’t you?”

“I’m not, Joan assumed another name in order to keep me away from the politics of Vale. Something I’m really thankful for. I will serve Vale, help my sister but at end of the day I just want to live quietly in my house, without worries.”

Chapter Text

Oscar woke up, looking around he saw that he was in a cell. He looked thought a window and saw water, lots and lots of water.

‘This is… the sea. I’m on a ship.” he look around. ‘A cell on a ship. Oh! No. Those men were slavers.’

“LET ME OUT OF HERE!” Oscar screamed getting the attention of two men nearby.

“This kid is too noisy.” one of them muttered.

“Make him shut up.” the other one complained. “Take him to the cells bellow deck.”

“I SAID LET ME GO! I’M A STUDENT OF ATLAS ACADEMY.”

“Shut up.” the first one said and tossed a black ball inside the cell, the ball expelled a gas.

As soon as Oscar was hit by it, he started to lose consciousness, before everything turned dark, he saw the bracelet on his arm shining.

________________________________________________________________________________

“What do you mean, my semblance?” asked Weiss.

“I believe that with enough aura in your body, it would force your semblance to emerge. I understand that the Schnees have a semblance of the order kind.”

They had finished eating breakfast and were talking in the living room.

“Yes. My sister is able to summon glyphs like my grandfather could, depending of the symbol summoned the effects are different. She is even able to summon the shadow forms of grimms she defeated.”

“So, you would be able to do the same.”

“It’s possible. But, I don’t believe I would want that.”

“Why not?”

Weiss averted her eyes from Jaune’s.

“You are afraid.” Jaune said looking at her. “Afraid that you would end up using this power to burn down Atlas.”

Weiss didn’t answer. Jaune took her left hand in his right one.

“Weiss, I’ll make a promise to you. Even if you have this power, the one that eventually will destroy the Atlas that your father made will not be you. You will not become a kin-slayer.”

“How can you be sure? With how much I hate that man, I… I…”

“Trust me. I never lied to you before and will not lie to you now.”

Weiss had a contemplative look.

“Give me an answer later. Now, I have work to do.”

Jaune then left the room.

________________________________________________________________________________

That night in the master bedroom room.

Weiss was sitting on the bed talking with Blanche and Noir.

“It’s been a month since Whisper came to this house.” said Noir

“And brother have been acting different.” Blanche grinned.

“Is that so?” Weiss really likes to talk with Jaune’s twin sisters, they are very kind and lively girls.

“Yes!” said Blanche. “He was always very serious, rarely smiled, ah… don’t take me wrong, he was always kind.” Noir nodded.

“To think brother found you in Atlas.” Noir paused. “Now that I think about it, didn’t the princess of Atlas have white hair and blue eyes?”

“She does.” Blanche said. The twins then looked to Weiss.

She got a little nervous.

“I’m sure Whisper is much more beautiful than her.” Blanche smiled at Weiss.

Weiss smiled back at the little girl.

“What are you two doing?” came the voice of Velvet.

The twins and Weiss saw the bunny faunus at the door caring a basket full with white sheets.

“We are keeping Lady Whisper company.” the twins say together.

“You girls shouldn’t bother her too much.”

“We are not.” they say together again.

Weiss giggled at them.

“It’s true Ms. Velvet, it’s not a bother.”

“Just call me Velvet, Lady Whisper. And you two, it’s time to sleep, come.”

Later that night, while Jaune was sleeping beside Weiss, and Neige was sleeping at the foot of the bed. Some thoughts were keeping Weiss awake.

‘Vale is so peaceful when compared to Atlas. Maybe I should just stay here and forget Jacques and Atlas. But… What about Winter, Mother and Whitley? I can’t just leave them… can I?’

________________________________________________________________________________

Few days later

“Whisper, why don’t we go out?” Blanche says in the morning.

“Out?” Weiss asked while Velvet was brushing her hair.

“You have been cooped up in the house for too long.” this time Noir is the one talking. “We could take the carriage and go around in the town.”

“A carriage?” Weiss looked uncertain. ‘It could attract attention if a girl who is not a noble to be in a carriage.’ she need to sell the idea that she is not Weiss Schnee Princess of Atlas, but just Whisper a plebeian girl that Jaune saved. “I don’t know, girls.”

“How about taking a closer look at the sea that you like so much.” came the voice of Jaune from the door.

“The sea?” she looked at him intrigued.

“We can take a walk by the shore.”

Jaune takes her and his sisters to the shore near the house. Blanche and Noir soon leave the two alone to go play with Neige in the sand.

“What do you think?” Jaune was looking at sea.

“I want to look at it every day.” came the honest answer from Weiss. After few minutes of silence, Weiss looks at Jaune.

“Jaune. I want you to awake my semblance.”

He looked at her surprised.

“You saved me in the mountains and offered to awake my semblance. Now, you must take responsibility for it.”

“Very well.” he agrees.

“I will give what you want.” she says blushing a little. “In return, you help me take back what belongs to my family.”

“Agreed.” he smiles at her, trying to hide his happiness but failing.

“But you must not love me.”

“Don’t say that.” he looks sad her.

“It’s better for the both of us. One day we will have to follow different paths.”

Jaune’s sad look turned determinate.

“And what if you fall in love with me?” he smirks at her.

Weiss almost smirked back.

“You are so arrogant. It won’t happen.”

“You sound so sure of yourself. But please, humor me, what if you fall in love with me?”

Now Weiss couldn’t hold her smirk back.

“If it happens. Then I will do whatever you want.”

“Very well then. You have a deal.” He extends his hand to her.

She takes his hand in a handshake, but is taken by surprise when he then kisses her hand.

“It’s a deal then.” he says looking at her blushing face, with a charming smile.

“JAUNE ARC” she screams, before kicking his leg.

“Ouch! What a violent woman.” he says, while she glared at him.

“Shut up.”

“Alright. Don’t be mad.”

‘Ugghhh! He’s going to make it hard won’t he?’

________________________________________________________________________________

That night Pyrrha was on the back of her mare going to Jaune’s mansion. Arriving there she is received by Port.

“Lady Pyrrha, welcome. Why are you here this late?”

“Good evening Mr. Port. Is Jaune here? I need to talk to him.”

“He is taking a bath.” Port answered taking Pyrrha’s cape.

“This late?” pondered Pyrrha. “Could you let him know that I’m here? I really need to talk to him.”

“Of course, Lady Pyrrha.” he guided her to the living room. “Please take a sit.”

“Thank you.”

Few minutes later Jaune opened the door of the room.

“Hey Pyr.” Greeted Jaune. “What brings you here at this hour?”

“Her Majesty came to my house.” says Pyrrha. “She questioned me about your servants, and if you had any new additions to your household.”

Jaune let out a sigh.

“She knows, Pyr.”

“What? How?”

“She came here. Invaded my bedroom and saw Weiss.” Jaune says while sitting down in front of Pyrrha.

“And then? What did you do?” Pyrrha looked concerned. ‘And since when are you calling her without her title.’

“I told her that I had saved a plebeian girl that was lost in the mountains and brought her back with me, since she had no where to go.”

“She believed that?” Pyrrha looked incredulous at Jaune.

“If she came to you, then no, she didn’t believe it.”

“Then, what should we do? If Her Majesty discovers that she is the princess of Atlas, it will not end well.”

“It’s simple, she will do nothing. Joan won’t take Weiss from me.”

Pyrrha looked skeptical for a moment before letting out a sigh.

“Our Queen really likes to pamper you. But that’s not the only reason I came here.”

She took a piece of parchment from a pocket in her dress and gave to Jaune.

“This arrived in my house today.”

‘Save the child that is in the sea going to Vacuo. If you can’t, then the treasure of the princess will be lost forever.’ said the note.

‘This hand writing. It’s Glynda’s. Then it must be from Ozpin. Nothing escapes that old man eyes.’

“Has anyone else seen this?” asked Jaune.

“Only you and me.”

“Good. Please keep it a secret Pyr.”

“Of course.”

While Jaune was talking to Pyrrha, Weiss was taking a bath before going to bed.

‘Why do I feel so nervous? We have been sleeping on the same bed for more than a month now, what changed?’

She got out of the bathtub, changed to her sleepwear and goes to the room she shares with Jaune. She nervously opens the door, seeing the room empty.

‘He’s not here yet.’ she sat on the bed, Neige was not there. ‘She must be with Blanche and Noir.’

The door of the room opened and she saw Jaune getting inside the room with a smile on his face. Weiss blushed.

‘No! No! It can’t be. I can’t be attracted to this man of all people. He is a pervert that takes every opportunity to touch me. Just because he’s kind, handsome, charming and have a cute smile… Oh! No!’ Weiss knew she was fighting a losing battle, but she still had her pride, and will fight to the bitter end before admitting that she have feelings for Jaune Arc.

“What’s wrong Weiss?” Jaune looked at her concerned.

“Oh! Ah! It’s nothing.”

“It’s just, you look nervous. If it’s about your semblance, don’t worry, we will only be holding hands this time. I’ll try to fill your Aura pool the best I can okay, that way, maybe, you will be able to access your semblance.”

Weiss nodded and let Jaune take her hand in his.

“I will start.”

Weiss nodded again, before she felt a warm sensation in her body.

________________________________________________________________________________

In the Royal Palace.

“So there were no new servants in his household.” Joan asked two of her servants.

“No, Your Majesty.”

“And the Atlesian girl?”

“She is treated like she’s the lady of the house. Your twin sisters are always with her during the day.”

“Blanche and Noir took a liking of her?” asked Joan surprised.

“They have, Your Majesty.”

Joan started to ponder on it.

‘Jaune, what are you thinking, little brother. I know you lied to me about that girl. I know she’s the princess of Atlas. That kindness of yours is going to be your undoing some day. But is it just kindness? Or have you fallen for her?’ she let out a sigh. ‘I will play along, for now. Let’s see how far you will take this lie Jau-Jau.’

“Keep observing my brother’s house, inform me of any change.”

“Yes, Your Majesty.”

With that the servants left the throne room, while Joan smirked.

Chapter Text

In the Schnee Castle in Atlas, Jacques was lying in bed still suffering the after-effects of his semblance, sitting beside his bed is a blonde haired woman.

“My poor Emperor, still sick.” says the woman.

“Salem.” she heard his voice. “Is that you?”

“Your Majesty. Yes, it’s me. Don’t worry our plan worked. Soon all the rebels that want vengeance for Princess Weiss will be gone, and you will have order in Atlas.”

“No, there’s still a problem, General Ironwood and Winter. Knowing them, they will not bow to me.”

“Their time will come. For now rest, Your Majesty. You will need your strength.”

As soon as Jacques fall asleep again, Salem leaves to room. Walking down the hallway she stops in front of a portrait of Jacques.

‘Pitiful man. He is just a tool, a tool I used to get rid of the Schnee’s, their semblance would be problematic, specially that Weiss girl, the relic had choose her and if her semblance had awakened… it doesn’t matter, she is gone now. Let’s concentrate on the future, it would be the best if Atlas started a war with Vale… But I need an excuse.”

She arrived in front of a door and knocked twice. The door immediately opened for her.

“My lady Salem.” said a tall black haired man with a thick mustache.

“Watts. Is everything going according the plan?”

“Yes, my Queen. Soon you will have all of the Relics and Remnant will bow to you.”

“Contact Cinder. Maybe we should move the schedule a little.”

________________________________________________________________________________

Weiss and Jaune were having breakfast in the balcony.

“We-ahem… Whisper. Pyrrha brought this to me last night. Does this means anything to you?” Jaune gave the parchment to Weiss.

Weiss took the piece of paper and quickly reads it.

‘Child going to Vacuo… princess treasure. Oscar, the relic. But why Vacuo?’ Weiss looked alarmed.

“We must find this child.” Weiss told Jaune.

“Do you know who it is?”

“Yes, I knew that Jacques was planing something, so before he started his plot to get rid of me, I asked a student from Atlas Royal Academy that I trust, to safe guard the relic of my family. And if you received this information, then that means someone else knows about it. We must hurry.”

“Calm down, I know the one who send this information, they can be trusted.” Jaune assured her.

“Even so, we must hurry, we have to save him. His name is Oscar Pine, his family died in a Grimm attack, right in front of me, so I took it upon myself to make sure he would receive a proper education and a chance to have a happy live.” she let out a sigh. “But why Vacuo? I don’t understand I told him to go to Argus.”

“The answer is quite simple, yet cruel Weiss.” Jaune says seriously. “He was captured by slavers. And Vacuo have the greatest slave market of Remnant.”

“Oh! Oscar…” she looked to the table. “Can he be saved?”

Jaune smirks at Weiss.

________________________________________________________________________________

That afternoon it started to rain. Jaune stood at a window looking the rain falling on the sea, when he heard something, or better yet, someone singing.

It was beautiful, so he followed the voice until he reached the music room. He opened the door silently and peeked inside. Blanche, Noir and Neige were sitting on the floor, Velvet was standing behind them, in front of them Weiss was singing.

‘It’s amazing. I always thought her voice was beautiful, but her singing is incredible.’

He got inside and stood silent by the door.

When Weiss finished the song, the girls started to applaud, and Weiss gave a little bow to them.

“It was beautiful Whisper.” said Blanche and Noir nodded.

“Thank you.” smiled Weiss.

“Don’t you think so too, brother?” said Noir to Weiss surprise.

Weiss turned and saw Jaune smiling at her from the door.

“Indeed, very beautiful.”

“T-Thank you.” this time Weiss blushed, knowing that she was blushing she turned away from him. ‘He just said my singing was beautiful, like Blanche and Noir did. So why I'm embarrassed?’ she shook her head. ‘I need to divert the attention.’

“Why don’t you sing now, Jaune?” she said to the knight.

He shrugged.

“Okay, I-” he was interrupted by Blanche, Noir, Velvet and even Neige.

“NO!!!”

“MEW!!!”

Weiss looked surprised at their outburst, their skin paled, even Neige fur looked more white then normal.

“Why?” she asked.

“Lady Whisper.” started Velvet. “If there is something really traumatic that happened to me, it was hearing Lord Jaune sing.”

“Never again… Never Again…” Blanche and Noir keep muttering while they hugged each other.

“Meeeewwww!” Neige covered her ears with her pawns.

“That… That bad?”

“I guess that I can be a little tone deaf.”

Velvet glares coldly at Jaune.

“Lord Jaune, ‘a little’ is very arrogant of your part. Your tone deafness is on the legendary level. It should be written in the history books.”

“Now, I’m hurt.” said Jaune looking very “sad”. “Whisper, I need a hug.” he opens his arms and go after Weiss, that runs away from him.

“Stay away from me, you dunce.”

________________________________________________________________________________

In the evening, Weiss sat on a desk, she started to write some names on a paper.

‘Now that I have decided to take back my home, I will need allies. House Schnee was practically exiled from Atlas. General Ironwood is a high possibility, he hates Jacques, but is loyal to Atlas, so I have to prove to him that I can be the better choice for ruling Atlas and Winter is with him, at least, last I heard of her. Perhaps the king of Menagerie would help… no, too dangerous, their army, the White Fang, have a lot of human hating extremists among them. The great wizard Ozpin, maybe he can be convinced to help if I get my relic back…’ she then grew frustrated remembering where the relic was. ‘Oscar… Dammit.’

She slammed her hand on the desk, that suddenly was catapulted forward and almost turned over. The desk was made of a very heavy wood, she wouldn’t be able to move it with her strength. Looking closer to where her hand had slammed on the desk, she saw an symbol there, not carved in the wood, but floating above it.

‘A Glyph? My semblance?’

Meanwhile, Jaune was in a meeting with the members of his unit.

“We need to find a kid that was taken by slavers. His name is Oscar, and he carries vital information about Atlas.”

In front of him were his three must trusted allies, the commanders of the Juniper Knights. A mistralian called Lie Ren, a happy looking girl called Nora Valkyrie and of course the Invincible Girl Pyrrha Nikos.

“Speed is the key here.” he continued. “They are taking him to Vacuo.” the others looked incredibly disturbed by this news.

“If he gets sold, it will be next to impossible to find him.” said Ren. “I did as you asked, a ship arrived today on the port, they said that a very suspicious ship has seen two days ago. They were very near our borders, and with the rain from yesterday, they wouldn’t have gone too far from it.”

“Good, then we leave tomorrow at sun rise.” said Jaune receiving a nod from Pyrrha.

“We are all going this time, Fearless Leader?” asked Nora.

“Of course, I expect some fighting, we have slavers to beat up and maybe some Grimms.”

“GREAT!” Nora jumped up “I can break some legs.”

“Then we leave tomorrow.” Jaune smiled at the girl.

“Lord Jaune.” came the voice of Port. “It seems you have forgotten something.”

“I have?”

“Lady Jeanne will be arriving this week.”

Jaune let out a sigh.

________________________________________________________________________________

There was a knocking on the door. Weiss looked from the bed.

“Come in.” she called.

Opening the door, Jaune got inside the room.

“How did the meeting go?”

“We leave tomorrow.” answered Jaune sitting on the bed.

“So soon?” the words were out of her mouth before she could stop them.

“Worried?”

She turned her head away from him.

“Thank you. For worrying about me.” he said honestly to her.

“Who said I am worried, you dunce.” she said still not looking at him.

She felt him hugging her, she squirmed a little.

“What are you doing? Let go.”

“Why?” she heard him saying. “Why did you have to be born in Atlas? Why not in Vale?”

She stays silent.

Jaune then let her go.

“While I’m away you should be careful. My sister is coming here.”

“Your sister, another one?”

“I had seven sisters.”

“SEVEN!!!!”

“Anyway. I will say it in advance… I’m sorry.”

“Why?”

“Jeanne can be rather… annoying… persistent…”

“Like you.”

“Much worse.”

Weiss paled hearing that.

“If you end up meeting. Please be patient with her, she went through a lot during the war.”

“I will try.” Weiss let out a sigh.

“Thank you. And can I ask a favor? When I come back, could you try to smile for me? I rarely see you smiling.”

Chapter Text

It have been a week since Jaune left. Weiss stood at the balcony looking at the sea.

‘If he finds Oscar, I will have the first relic. Then I need the other five, the sword, the crown, the lamp, the staff and the watch. It’s said that the watch could turn back time, so to prevent chaos from happening, the god of light destroyed it.’

“I need to find them. But… what if the relics aren’t the answer.”

“Lady Whisper.” she heard the voice of Velvet coming from inside the room.

Leaving the balcony, she sees Velvet with a small bag in hands.

“The letter was sent as you instructed. Here is the remaining money.” she gave the bag to Weiss. That smiled and gave the bag back to Velvet.

“That is for you Velvet. For your hard work and for always helping me.”

“My Lady I can’t…”

“Please don’t refuse.”

Velvet looks at Weiss and then at the bag.

“I understand. But this money will only be used where Lady Whisper needs it.”

Weiss let out a sigh and smiled again.

“Very well.”

“WHISPER!” they where interrupted by the arrival of Blanche and Noir.

“Blanche, Noir, there’s no need to scream like that inside the house.” scolded Velvet.

“But Velvet, it’s the Vytal Festival, they just announced that it will be held next month.”

“Already? Oh! Now that I think about it, it has been two years since the last one.” commented Velvet.

“Vytal Festival?” asked Weiss.

“It’s really fun, there will parades, food from all over the world and even tournaments. Jaune and Pyrrha won the doubles tournament and Pyrrha won the individual fighting in the last festival.” said Noir.

“We should go Whisper.” said Blanche.

Weiss smiled at the twins.

“Let’s see what your brother have to say when he gets back and we go from there.”

“YAY!” they shouted before hugging Weiss.

“WHAT DO YOU MEAN I CAN’T GO IN THERE!!” they heard someone shouting from the lobby of the mansion.

“What was that?” asked Weiss.

“I will go see.” Velvet quickly left the room.

“That voice…” said Blanche.

“Probably Jeanne.” finished Noir.

“Your sister?” asked Weiss.

The twins nodded.

“She is a student in Beacon, but comes here when they have a break or vacation. She should go visit Saphron or Violette sometimes.” Noir nodded at what Blanche said.

The door opened as Velvet returned.

“It’s Lady Jeanne, she is not very happy.”

A tall girl with long blond hair tied in a ponytail was looking in anger at Port and two guards that were guarding the entrance to the eastern side of the mansion.

“I’m sorry Lady Jeanne, but by orders of Lord Jaune, no one shall be allowed in the eastern side without his approval.”

“What the… Then call my brother.”

“Lord Jaune left for an assignment.”

Jeanne gritted her teeth.

“Port, step aside.”

Port dug in his pocket and took out a letter.

“Lord Jaune left this for you.”

Jeanne took the letter.

‘Jeanne, don’t be a spoiled prick. If you bring problems to Port, the guards or the maids of my household, I will make sure to send you to Violette after I tell her how you treated my people.’

Jeanne gulped after reading the letter.

“FINE! I will go stay in the western side of the mansion. Happy?”

“Thank you, for understanding Lady Jeanne.” said Port smirking.

Weiss stood in balcony looking at the scene.

“How old is Jeanne?” she asked Velvet.

“She is 17 years old.” Velvet then smiled. “She acts like that, but is actually a good girl. During the civil war she lost her father, mother and a sister that was really close to her.”

“The sister that they lost… she was named Rouge, hasn’t she?”

“Lady Whisper knows of it?” Velvet looks surprised at Weiss.

“Jaune told me sometime ago.”

“Lady Jeanne was 12 when that happened, Blanche and Noir were just babies. Rouge was 9, that monster ordered the death of a nine years old child, right in front of her 14 years old brother.” a tear rolled down from her eyes. “Rouge was such a sweet child. I never wished for the death of another person, but I was happy when Her Majesty Joan stood on the balcony of the Vale Palace holding the head of the old king.” she took a deep breath. “Lord Jaune, then helped raise Jeanne, Blanche and Noir with the help of his older sisters Saphron and Violette, well, he raised Blanche and Noir, while his sisters took care of Jeanne.”

“And where are his older sisters now?” Weiss was curious.

“They both got married, Saphron lives in Argus and Violette in Mistral.”

“I see.”

“Jeanne then decided to follow the same path as Jaune, she is studding in Beacon Royal Academy, if she is here it must be because they are on a vacation to prepare for the Vytal Festival.” Velvet then covered her mouth. “Oh! I talked too much! Lord Jaune will scold me if he finds out.” she giggled a bit. “Or not. He is far too kind for his own good.”

Weiss smiled at Velvet

‘Velvet really likes Jaune, and Pyrrha too. Doesn’t he sees it? How dense is that man?’

3 hours later

‘Strange.’ Jeanne thought looking from the balcony of the western side of the mansion at the eastern side. ‘Why he won’t let me stay there? He must be hiding something.’ she then grinned.

“Let’s find out. It’s not like he would kill me.”

At night of that day.

Jeanne knew how to get to the eastern side of the mansion without passing through the entrance, she would have to swim around the house and climb up the spear fences.

Weiss was standing on the balcony enjoying the night sea breeze when she saw Jeanne swimming towards the eastern side.

‘What’s that crazy girl doing?’

Arriving at the shore Jeanne looked up and saw Weiss.

“WHA!!!!” she screamed. “MY BROTHER IS HIDING A WOMAN HERE?”

She cleared her throat.

“Hey! What’s your name?” Jeanne asked.

“…” Weiss just looks at her coldly.

“LADY JEANNE!” they hear Port shouting, before two guards take Jeanne by the arms and drags her back to the western side of the mansion.

“HEY! WAIT! AT LEAST TELL ME YOUR NAME! HEY!”

‘So noisy… she just killed the mood.’ thought Weiss before turning and going back inside the mansion.

2 hours later

Weiss was sleeping, or better yet, trying to sleep. It’s a little hard when someone keeps banging the window and making noise. Weiss let out a sigh and gets up from the bed.

Jeanne smiles seeing Weiss coming to the window where she is, only for her to close the curtains on Jeanne’s face.

‘WHAT THE HELL!!!’ Jeanne shouted internally.

Weiss then walked to the door and called the guard that stood outside.

“Yes, My Lady?”

“Could you please ask Velvet to bring some tea for me, I’m having a bit of trouble in falling asleep.”

“Of Course, My Lady.” the guard left as soon as Weiss closed the door.

Few minutes later, Velvet opened the door of the room.

“The guard said you can’t sleep-” she stopped talking when Weiss pointed to the window.

Velvet moved curtains and was shocked seeing Jeanne shaking in the cold outside.

“Lady Jeanne?”

Jeanne and Weiss were sitting at the small table inside the room, Velvet was standing behind Weiss. Jeanne was still shaking. Seeing this, Weiss stood up, took a blanket from the closet and gave it to Jeanne.

“Oh! T-Thank you!”

Jeanne warped the blanket around herself.

“So, are you my brother’s wife?”

“Es mag so erscheinen, da wir zusammen leben. Aber das ist nicht der fall.” (It may appear so, since we are living together. But that is not the case.) Weiss answered in atlesian.

“Errr… don’t you speak the common tongue?”

“Bist du so neugierig, dass du das risiko eingehen würdest krank zu werden?” (Are you that curious, that you would risk getting sick?)

“Come on.” Jeanne was getting frustrated.

Weiss then points to the door.

“What? Are you telling me to leave?”

“Geh zurück in dein zimmer und komm nicht mehr heirher.” (Go back to your room and don’t come here anymore.)

Jeanne stands up.

“My name Jeanne. Jeanne Arc, I’m just curious about the woman in my brother’s house, could you at least tell me your name before I leave?”

Weiss looks at Jeanne and let out a sigh.

“Whisper.” she answer.

________________________________________________________________________________

In the middle of the Valean Sea.

Oscar wakes up in another cell.

‘What… What’s going on?’

He then hears someone approaching him. Looking up he sees a cute, short girl with shoulder length black hair and silver eyes.

“Are you hungry?” she smiles at him and offers a piece of bread. “Here. Eat this.”

“Thank you.” he takes the bread and eats it.

“GRIMM!” Both hear one of the slavers shouting.

Looking through the small window he sees it.

“A Sea Feilong.” says Oscar in fear. “We are done for.”

‘Princess, I’m sorry. I couldn’t do what you asked of me.’

The girl looks at Oscar.

“Hold the door.” she tells him. “The ship will turn. If you don’t want to die, then hold the door and don’t let go,” she then took hold of the wooden cell door.

Oscar did as the mysterious girl said.

And just as the girl said, the slavers ship was destroyed.

They were going to the bottom of the sea. Oscar looked up thinking that was the end, only to see a silhouette of a man and a woman swimming down to them.

‘Who are you?’ was his last thoughts before losing his consciousness.

________________________________________________________________________________

Jaune stood on the deck of the ship a concerned look on his face.

‘Jeanne must be there already. I know that Port and Velvet will treat her well, and Blanche and Noir will keep her company. I just hope she doesn’t do something stupid like provoking Weiss. Well at least Weiss will be happy when she sees the kid. But what was Ru-’

He was brought back from his musings when a sailor shouted.

“GRIMM!!!”

Jaune turned his attention to where the man was pointing.

“DAMN IT! TWO SEA FEILONG!”

He drew his sword, Crocea Mors.

“Ren, Nora, you two take the one on the left. Pyrrha with me, to the right. Cut off their heads.” he shouted out his orders.

He and Pyrrha rushed towards the Grimm to the right, as the creature was going to take a bite on the ship Pyrrha jumped and pinned it’s head down with her spear, Jaune then took this opportunity, his body shining in golden light, it took only one swing of Crocea Mors to decapitate the sea feilong. Looking to the left side he saw the other creature dead, with it’s skull caved in after taking a powerful hit from Nora’s hammer.

“Let’s go home!” Jaune shouted to the sailors.

“Aye! Aye! Sir.” came the answer.

He then goes to his cabin, leaving the cleaning up to the crew. Inside the cabin Oscar is still sleeping, while the girl is awake and looking embarrassed at Jaune.

“Hey!” she greets him blushing a little.

“Ruby Rose. You better have a very good explanation to why you were in a slavers ship.” Jaune scolded the younger girl.

Chapter Text

Jeanne was walking in the shore when she sees, Weiss and the twins together a little further down the beach. She goes running after them.

“Hey!” she shouts.

Only to be blocked by Blanche and Noir.

“Stop Jeanne.” said Noir

“Leave Whisper alone.” followed Blanche.

“Hey! Calm down you two. I just wanted to say that I’m sorry for going to your room unannounced. Even if it’s my brother’s house, it was very impolite of me.” Jeanne says blushing a little.

Weiss looks at Jeanne for moment, before smiling at her and nodding.

“Ich verzeih dir.” (You are forgiven.)

“LADY WHISPER!” Weiss turned seeing Velvet running towards them. “Lord Jaune is back.”

Weiss eyes shone in happiness, without her even noticing as she runs inside the mansion.

‘Why? Why I’m so happy just hearing that he is back? It has been only two weeks since he left… I missed him? Do I really have these kind of feelings for him?’

As soon as Jaune was walking through the entrance he was hit by a white blur right in the middle of his chest, said white figure was Weiss, that was hugging him.

Weiss noticing what she was doing, quickly jumped away from Jaune, blushing.

“W-Welcome home.” she said smiling at him, remembering the promise she had made before he left.

“Thank you.” he said back.

“Oho! So that’s the famous Whisper that we have heard about.” Weiss saw an orange haired girl behind Jaune and beside her were Pyrrha and a tall mistralian man with black hair.

“Let me introduce you Whisper. Pyrrha you already know, these are Nora and Ren the other two high ranking officers of the Juniper Knights.”

“Hello!” greeted Nora.

“Nice to meet you.” came from Ren.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you as well.” answered Weiss.

“You guys should go home for today.” said Jaune to them. “Eat and rest well… And take tomorrow off, you guys more then earned it.”

“YAY! Thanks Fearless Leader.” shouted Nora.

“Thank you, Jaune.” said Ren before leaving with Nora.

“Bye Bye.” the girl shouted to them.

“See you later, Jaune.” said Pyrrha after Ren and Nora left. “Princess.” she nodded grinning sarcastically at Weiss.

Weiss just glared at Pyrrha for moment, before turning to Jaune.

“And? Did you find him?”

“Yes, he is unharmed.” Jaune smiled. “Just a little shaken by everything that happened, he is sleeping in one of the guest rooms right now, it’s best to talk to him tomorrow, he is really tired.” Weiss nodded at him.

“And I don’t know if it’s a coincidence or not, but he had a friend of mine with him in that slavers ship. I need to tell her father and sister that she is here with me or they are going to go crazy. I swear, that girl is going to be the cause of my death someday, I just know it.” Jaune started to rant about Ruby.

“Girl?” asked Weiss narrowing her eyes at Jaune, before realizing what she was doing. ‘Wha? I’m jealous? No, no, no, impossible.’

“Ruby Rose, an old friend of mine. She was also a student in Beacon with her sister Yang.”

________________________________________________________________________________

The next day

Oscar was sitting in the living room with Ruby sitting beside him. He was looking at the bracelet.

‘I’m still alive. But were am I now?’

“Ah! They are here. Hey! Bestie.” shouted Ruby from her seat.

Oscar looked to the door and saw Princess Weiss walking inside the room with the blond man that saved him and… was that a fox walking beside them.

“Your M…” he started to say only to see Weiss putting a finger on her lips, telling him to be silent.

Neige saw Ruby and jumped in her lap before starting to lick her face.

“Ah! Neige! Stop! I know, I missed you too.” she giggled at the fox.

“I will get to you in a minute Ruby, for now play with Neige.” said Jaune.

“Is that really you?” asked Oscar looking at Weiss with tears in his eyes.

Weiss smiled and nodded at him.

“You have gone through such a terrible experience. Thank you Oscar, I’m really happy that you are alive.”

“Ah! This.” Oscar took off the bracelet and gives it to Weiss. As she was about to take it, Jaune’s hand intercepted it. The bracelet turned into a necklace when Jaune touched it.

“Here, let put it on you.” he says getting behind Weiss and gently putting the relic on her. Weiss was blushing the entire time. “It looks good on you.”

“Wah! It’s really pretty.” says Ruby.

“And you are?” asked Weiss.

“Oh! I’m Ruby, Ruby Rose. Jaune’s best friend, disciple of Ozpin and-” Ruby smiled.

“In a lot of trouble when I tell Taiyang and Yang where I found you.” said Jaune. “How did you end up in that ship Ruby?”

Ruby rubbed the back of her head blushing.

“Well, it’s because Master Ozpin told me to bring this to you.” Ruby took a crown from her red cape. “Master Ozpin said that you two need to find the relics. He also told me that the Lamp is in Mistral. When I was about to leave Patch, I was taken by surprise, they locked me up in a cell and took away my baby, Crescent Rose.” she sniffed.

“Y-Your baby! You have a child? But you are so young.” Weiss looked surprised at Ruby.

“It’s not like that Whisper. That’s how she calls her weapon.” explained Jaune.

“O-Oh! I see.”

“WAAAHH!!! She is forever lost in the sea.” cried Ruby.

“Calm down Ruby.” he turned to the door. “Port, could you bring me the red box, please.”

The butler did as asked, bringing a large red box inside the room.

“Open it Ruby.” Jaune tells her.

Opening the box Ruby’s silver eyes sparkled in happiness.

“MY BABY!” He hugged the object that now Weiss could see what it was, a huge combat scythe.

“I found ‘her’ floating on top of a wooden plank after we killed the Sea Feilong.”

“Thank you, bestie.” Ruby hugged Jaune.

Weiss looked a little annoyed at the young girl and cleared her throat.

“Ahem. Ms. Rose.” said Weiss. “Why is your master helping us?”

“Call me Ruby. He said something about an evil that is in Atlas, and that you are the ones that brings the end and a new beginning.”

‘Evil. Could it be my father? Why do I feel that’s not so simple.’

________________________________________________________________________________

That night Weiss was in the balcony looking at the sea.

“You look worried.” she heard the voice of Jaune behind her. “Is it because of what Ruby said?”

Weiss just keeps looking at the sea.

“I think, I should go to Atlas.”

Jaune looks at her surprised.

“And I need your help, Jaune. I will pay all the costs, my grandfather left some money hidden in an account so I know that I can afford that much.”

Jaune let out a sigh.

“I don’t want your money, Weiss.” he uses her real name knowing they are alone. “When I picked you up on that mountain, I promised that I would take care of you.”

“Jaune…” she looks to the floor to hide her blushing face. “I told you to not love me. We made a deal.”

“Impossible.” he says, before hugging her. “Don’t ask for the impossible.”

She hesitates a little before hugging him back.

“I though an Arc never breaks his promises.”

“The deal was that if you fall in love with me you would do whatever I want, it didn’t say anything about me falling for you.” he replied immediately.

Weiss scoffed at him but didn’t let go of the hug.

________________________________________________________________________________

Weiss had talked with Jaune about how much the twins wanted to go to the Festival, and he couldn’t resist the puppy eyes of his sisters, and Ruby’s for that matter. While going to the carriage he saw Jeanne sneaking around.

“What are you doing?” he called her, she jumped in surprise not expecting him.

“J-Jaune. Hey! I was just… You know.”

“No, I don’t. What I know is that you came inside Whisper’s room uninvited, in the middle of the night and almost got sick while doing so.”

Jeanne blushed and looked away from Jaune. He let out a sigh.

“She forgave you. And that’s the only reason why I’m taking you with us to the Festival.”

Jeanne smiled and hugged Jaune, that then ushered her inside the carriage, before getting inside himself.

Arriving at the center of the town, they all disembarked.

“You two, go have fun and be careful.” Jaune tells the twins. “And you three, have fun and keep your eyes on them.” he tells Ruby, Oscar and Jeanne.

“YES SIR!” Yells Ruby running to some stalls dragging the twins and Oscar with her, Jeanne followed in a slower pace.

‘Where should I go first.’ Weiss was looking around, until she saw Jaune’s hand appearing in front of her.

“So we won’t get separated.” he smiles at her.

She smiles back and takes the offered hand.

They go to various stalls enjoying the games and the food, Weiss saw some dancers and was mesmerized by the beautiful choreography using colored veils, she was smiling, Jaune just keeps looking at her, smiling at how happy she looked. When Weiss noticed that Jaune was looking at her, she quickly looked away.

“Hummpf.” he just grinned at how cute she was acting.

“Oh! Come with me for a moment Whisper.” he guided her towards a stall full of weapons.

“Why are we here Jaune?” Weiss asked, looking at the variety of weapons displayed.

“Hello Mr. Mullberry, is my order ready?” Jaune asked the bearded man that managed the stall.

“Howdy Jaune. Yeah, it’s ready, what do you take me for?” said the man reaching bellow the counter, “I knew you would come to the Festival, so I brought it here.” he took out something warped in cloth and gave it to Jaune. “I was able to do exactly as you asked. Gave me a lot of work, but it’s one of the best I made.”

“Thank you, Mr. Mullberry.” said Jaune.

“No problem kid, you paid in advance. It’s for the little lady over there?”

Hearing that, Weiss turned to Jaune.

“Mr. Mullberry. You ruined the surprise.” whined Jaune.

“HAHAHAHAHA!!! Sorry kid.”

“For me? What did you do?” she asked.

“Here.” he said giving it to her. “Open and find out.”

Weiss took the object and unwrapped it. Inside the cloth was a rapier, grey and silver with four jewels on the guard, a ruby, an emerald, a sapphire and a topaz.

“It’s beautiful, but why give something like this to me?”

“You know, I heard that Princess Weiss of Atlas was an excellent fencer.”

Weiss smirked at Jaune.

“It’s made of Atlesian Steel, that way you will have something of your homeland with you.” he smiled at her while rubbing his neck.

“Thank you, Jaune. I will treasure it. I shall name it Myrtenaster.”

“It’s a good name.”

Suddenly they heard a scream.

“GRIMM!”

Looking to the direction that the scream came from, they see at least 4 boarbatusks and 3 lancers coming in their direction.

Jaune left Crocea Mors back in his mansion.

“Kid! Here.” he heard Mr. Mullberry yelling, turning in time to get a long sword the blacksmith had thrown him.

“Thanks!” he turned to face the Grimm and saw Weiss positioning herself at his side, Myrtenaster at ready. “What are you doing? You should be taking refuge-”

He was surprised when a glyph formed at Weiss feet and it propelled her upwards toward a Lancer, that she stabbed right in the middle of the head.

She landed perfectly on the ground, and a second later the body of creature hit the ground, dead.

“I can protect myself.” she tells Jaune, only to see him decapitating a boarbatusk that was running towards her in one strike, his body had a golden light surrounding it.

“Right.” he tells her as she blushes.

“Anyway, we need to protect these people.”

________________________________________________________________________________

In the palace.

“WHAT!” Joan looks wide-eyed at the one that just gave her the news. “Grimms in the middle of the town during the festival? Call the Juniper Knights quickly.”

“Lord Jaune is there already, Your Majesty.”

“He is? That’s good, he will be able to hold off while we get there.” Joan looked relieved.

“He’s not alone.”

“Oh! Pyrrha is with him, that’s even better.”

“It’s not Pyrrha, Your Majesty. It’s that white haired girl.”

Joan looked surprised.

“And she… created glyphs while fighting.”

Joan eyes narrowed.

‘I knew it, that’s Princess Weiss. Jaune, we are going to have a long talk after this.’

________________________________________________________________________________

In the festival.

Jaune and Weiss were covering for each other, cutting and stabbing grimms, left and right, for what seems like hours now, but in reality just twenty minutes passed. They were getting tired, there were too many enemies for just two of them.

Weiss was exhausted after using her recently discovered semblance constantly in such a short period of time, and Jaune was not much different, his semblance could heal and strengthen him, but using it non-stop would tire the body of the user.

‘Damn’ both of them thought only to hear the voice of Joan.

“JAUNE!” with her came her personal guard, they were slaughtering the grimms around Jaune and Weiss.

“You Majesty.” he would not call her by name or sister in the presence of her guard.

Joan took a look a both Jaune and Weiss.

“There’s a lot of things I want to ask. But first…” she turns toward the approaching grimm, spear and shield in hand. “Let me handle this.”

Moving fast like a lightning Joan, stabbed, cuts and tramples over the grimms, with the help of the guards, it quickly came to an end.

Joan called the captain of her guard, a tall man wearing a black armor, his face hidden by a black helmet.

“These grimm, didn’t just magically appeared, someone brought them here, I want the one responsible brought to me. Go!” the captain quickly moved to fulfill the orders of the queen. She turned to Jaune and Weiss. “Now, you two.”

In the palace.

Joan sat on her throne looking at Jaune and Weiss, she let out a sigh.

“I knew something was wrong when I saw you on my brothers bed.” started Joan. “I’m really upset with you Jaune, for lying to me.”

“I’m really sorry, You Majesty.” said Jaune bowing to her. “I have no excuses.”

Joan cringed at that, she never wanted Jaune, her dear little brother, to call her like that or having to bow to her.

“JAUNE!” she screamed at him frustrated.

“Your Majesty, could you please listen to us?” said Weiss.

“Why? So you could lie again?”

“Not at all. Jaune lied to protect me. So I could have my revenge against Jacques Gelé.”

Joan eyes narrowed.

“You mean Jacques Schnee.”

“That man is not worthy of the name of my grandfather’s family.” Weiss responded with barely restricted hate.

“Will you kill your own father?”

“I-”

“She won’t. I will. She will not become a kin-slayer.” interrupted Jaune.

Joan looked at Jaune, saw the determination in his eyes and something more.

‘As I thought, he have feelings for her.’

“A week.” says Joan. “You have a week to prove your sincerity to me, if you do, I will help you. If not, you shall be taken as a political hostage against Atlas. Now go home to rest.”

On their way home, inside a carriage, Jaune and Weiss were silent for a time.

“Are you hurt, Weiss?” asked Jaune concerned.

“What?” she was brought back from her thoughts. “Oh! No. I’m fine. Just tired. And you?”

“Just tired as well.” he then takes a look at her left hand, seeing it slightly red. “You hand.”

“It’s from not using a sword for a long time.” she answered looking at it.

“Doesn’t it hurt?” he asked again.

“A little, but it’s fine.”

“It’s not. Here.” he extends his hand to her.

This time without hesitation, she takes it and he activates his semblance.

‘It's so easy to give my hand to him when he asks for it now. He have always been kind to me, he even confessed his love, and what I felt when Ruby hugged him… I was jealous. I get jealous when I see him with other girls that are not his sisters. I… will not deny it anymore.’

“Jaune.” she calls, when he raises his eyes to her, she moves quickly and kisses him, a kiss he responds with passion.

They separate for a moment, only to kiss again, this time, hugging each other.

Chapter Text

In a ship, a woman stands looking at the sea, she have white hair and blue eyes, and is wearing a black and white long dress, beside her is a young boy with white hair and blue eyes also.

“Are you sure this is a good idea mother?” asked the boy. “It could be a trap.”

“It’s not a trap. I know her hand writing better than anyone.” the woman answered.

“She could have been forced to write it.” the boy insisted.

“Whitley. You should know better than anyone, that no one can force Weiss to do anything, even at sword point she wouldn’t surrender.”

“Your Majesty.” said an old man approaching them. “We will arrive shortly.”

“Thank you, Klein. I know you want to see Weiss as much as we do.” the woman smiled at the old butler.

Klein smiled back. After the party where Jacques ordered the arrest of Weiss, Klein did as he was instructed by the princess, he left Atlas and quickly found a ship going to Argus. Arriving at the neutral kingdom, he found where Empress Willow and Prince Whitley were living and delivered the news about Weiss. The Empress was devastated, she already had a very unhealthy drinking habit, thanks to Jacques, and that got worse after hearing about Weiss. Then three weeks ago they received a letter from Weiss. Immediately Willow got everything ready for the trip and two weeks later they are arriving in Vale.

______________________________________________________________________________

Weiss was standing in the balcony looking at the sea. After the attack of the Grimm, they were relieved when arriving at Jaune’s mansion they were received by the twins, Ruby, Oscar and Jeanne that had come home save and sound. And after the kiss in the carriage, while Weiss didn’t confess her love for Jaune, she no longer denied her feelings for him. Now she have to prove that she wants to take down Atlas to Queen Joan.

‘Hopefully they will arrive shortly. I have until today to prove myself.’

“Lady Whisper.” Weiss turned hearing the voice of Velvet.

“What is it?”

“Guests have arrived, and they want to meet you. They said you would know who they are if I called you Snowflake.”

Weiss eyes widened and she smiled at Velvet.

“Take me to them. And call Jaune as well, I want him to meet them.”

They arrived at the living room, where Willow and Whitley were sitting in one of the couches drinking tea, while Klein stood behind them. Willow stood up seeing Weiss.

“OHM! It’s really you… My Snowflake.” she quickly hugged Weiss.

“As I thought, you are really hard to kill.” said Whitley smirking, only to receive a slap in the back of the head, courtesy of Klein.

“Excuse me.” said Klein, before looking at Weiss. “You don’t know how happy I’m to see you well Snowflake.”

“Klein, I really happy to have you here, you too Whitley.” Weiss says smiling after hugging her mother.

“Do we have guests?” Jaune came inside the room and saw Weiss family there. “My name is Jaune Arc, welcome to my home.” he smiled at them.

Willow bowed her head in greetings.

“I’m Willow, We- Whisper’s mother. And this is Whitley, my son. I can’t thank you enough for saving my daughter from that monster.”

“Y-You are the Rusted Knight?” said Whitley looking wide eyed at Jaune.

“I’m known by that name, yes.” said Jaune.

“I told you that you are famous in Atlas.” said Weiss smirking.

“Lord Arc. I’m Klein, servant of Lady Whisper family for many years now.”

“A pleasure to meet you all.” Jaune turned to Weiss. “Whisper, we should go.”

“Oh! Of course. Come, all of you, and bring one of the boxes that you brought.”

________________________________________________________________________________

Joan sat on the throne looking impatient.

‘Where are they? The time is almost up. Don’t make me go after you Jaune.’

“Announcing. Lord Jaune Arc.”

Jaune walked proudly inside the throne room, followed by Weiss, Willow and Whitley.

“You are late.” Joan glared at them.

“The sun is still up, Your Majesty.” replied Jaune.

“Hmmph.” Joan knew that in front of others, Jaune would follow the etiquette protocols.

“I’m sorry to make you wait, Your Majesty.” said Weiss.

“And those two?”

“My mother and my brother.” answered Weiss. “I bring them to Vale and before you to show my sincerity in overthrowing Jacques Gele. And this as well.”

Klein entered the throne room with a box, opening it so Joan could see. Inside was a large ingot of atlesian steel.

“There are boxes full of ingots like this one on the ship they arrived. With it, you can arm all your soldiers with the best weapons that you can produce.”

Joan looked at the ingot, and turned unimpressed to Weiss.

“That is fine. But, it’s not the proof that I wanted from you.”

“What? How come?”

“I asked for a proof of your sincerity. This proves nothing.” Joan indicates the ingot and her family. “Your time is running out.”

‘A proof of my sincerity. What… Wait, before a queen, she is Jaune’s sister. From what I heard, she treats Jaune as a son. I see, that is the proof she wants.’

Weiss looks in Joan eyes.

“I’m Princess Weiss Schnee of Atlas.” she says proudly. “And I declare, that I will bring down Jacques Gele, take the throne of Atlas back to the Schnee family. And will do so with the man I love, Lord Jaune Miles Arc, beside me.”

Willow, Whitley and Klein look surprised at Weiss, not expecting that.

Joan looks at Weiss in the eyes for a moment, before slowly smiling at her, then she turns to Jaune, that was blushing like crazy after hearing Weiss say that she loves him.

“And you, Jaune, do you love her as well?”

“I-I do Your… Sister, I do, with all my heart. She’s the one I want to spend my live with.”

Joan’s smile widens.

“Then, I accept your proof.” she declared. “Let it be know that Princess Weiss Schnee of Atlas will receive the help of Vale to bring down the false emperor. But first, let’s commemorate the union between the Arcs of Vale and the Schnees of Atlas.”

Quickly the staff from the palace prepared the dinner for the commemoration.

During the dinner Willow sat beside Weiss.

“Weiss, are you sure that’s the man you want in your live?”

“What do you mean mother?” asked Weiss, seeing Whitley talking with Jaune and paying attention to the stories he is telling.

“I mean, I can see he is handsome and seems to be a nice young man. But I can’t forget the fact that he is the Rusted Knight, his past is marked by blood and I’m afraid that if you stay with him, you will share a future full of blood as well.”

“I understand your worries, mother. Jaune already told me why he is called Rusted Knight. It was a very sad ordeal, it would have broken others, but instead he became stronger. He is kind and sometimes a little goofy, but only act like that to make the people he loves smile. You should see how he is with his little sisters, he is a father to them and they love him very much.” Weiss was smiling while saying that.

“I understand, but I am afraid you will be making the same mistake I did. The only good thing that came from my marriage with Jacques was the three of you.”

“Don’t worry, mother. Jaune is not a cold, cruel coward like Jacques. He never asks of anyone what he wouldn’t do himself. And mother, he saved me more times than you can imagine. Believe me when I say that I am sure that he loves me very much.”

“What do you mean, he saved you more times than I can imagine?” Willow eyes widened. “Weiss, what did you do?”

“I was filled with despair. I wanted to end it all.”

Willow covered her mouth with her hands and tears appeared on her eyes.

“Oh! Weiss.”

“I tried, more then once. Jaune was always there to stop me, at first I was annoyed by it, of course. But then, he gave reasons to keep going and made me understand that it wasn’t my fault that all those terrible things happened. I didn’t even notice that I was falling in love with him little by little.”

Willow hugs Weiss tightly.

“I see. Then, if that’s what you truly want, then I approve.”

“Thank you, mother.”

________________________________________________________________________________

The next day, Weiss family was ready to return to Argus, Jaune and Weiss were seeing them off at the harbor.

“Are you sure you must go back to Argus, mother?” asked Weiss.

“It’s better if I go, my staying here could make that man do something stupid. He could believe I came to Vale seeking asylum, and that could bring war, well, before you and Vale are ready to fight them.”

“Yes, he would do something like that. I received a message from the Wizard Ozpin, he said a great evil is in Atlas. Do you have any idea of what he might be referring to?”

“A great evil? Well, a name comes to mind, Lady Salem. Since she appeared in Atlas, strange things have been happening, even attacks from Grimms have increased. At first I though it was a coincidence, but if Lord Ozpin is suspicious then…”

“I remember her. She always had a very unsettling presence.”

“Be careful Weiss. She is more dangerous than she appears.”

“I will mother.” Weiss hugs Willow.

“If you need to make contact with Weiss, talk with my sister Saphron, she lives in Argus, that way we can disguise as mail coming for me. Look for Saphron Cotta Arc, I believe you will find her easily.”

“I will, thank you, Lord Arc.”

“Please, call me Jaune.”

“Then, if I may request something Lord Jaune?” said Klein from behind Willow.

“Of course.”

“As you know, Lady Weiss can be very stubborn, and if she has a goal in her mind, she will do everything in her power to achieve it. Could I ask you to protect her?”

“K-Klein.” said Weiss embarrassed.

Jaune smiled at the old butler and brought Weiss to his side, hugging her shoulder.

“Don’t worry. I have been protecting her since I found her on that mountain, and will continue to do so until my last breath. That’s an Arc’s promise. And an Arc never goes back on his word.”

Weiss blushes hearing his promise.

Klein and Willow both smile at the two of them, while Whitley looks like he is going to throw up.

“You really look great together.” said Willow. “Goodbye, I hope to see you two soon.”

Weiss family departs in their ship, going back to Argus.

That night Weiss, is sitting in her desk thinking about the relics.

‘Ruby said that the lamp is in Mistral. From what I researched, the last person to have possession of it, was the first king of Mistral, after that it disappeared. That could mean that the Lamp was buried with him. I have to look for the Tomb of the First King. The Lamp have the power of knowledge, it can answer any question you have. After that I will need the Staff and the Sword. The Staff have the power of creation and the Sword, the power of destruction. Honestly, the Sword scares me. I need to find them before Vale is ready to fight Atlas.’ - She let out a sigh. ‘Then I have maybe three to four months… I better go to sleep.’

Before the sun rises, Jaune is awaken by someone lightly knocking in the bedroom door. He carefully leaves the bed doing his best to not wake Weiss. Opening the door he sees Port waiting on the other side.

“What is it?” he whispered.

“A messenger from the palace. Her Majesty is summoning you.” answered Port.

Jaune nods and goes back inside the room. He quickly changes clothes. Before leaving, he goes to the bed and kisses Weiss forehead.

“I will be back soon.” he whispers.

________________________________________________________________________________

Weiss wakes up late in the morning.

‘I stayed up late again.’ she let out a sigh. ‘This can’t go on.’

The door of the room opens and Velvet comes inside with a cart with a variety of fruits for her breakfast. She is followed by Blanche and Noir.

“Good Morning, Lady Whisper.” greets Velvet.

“Morning Whisper.” say the twins.

“Good morning. Where’s Jaune?”

“Brother was called by Sis Joan.” says Noir.

“She called him when it was still dark.” completed Blanche.

‘Hmmm… Why so early? And why am I having a bad feeling?’

“Whisper. Today is the last day of the Vytal Festival.” says Blanche, bringing Weiss back from her musings.

“The last day. It’s when they launch the fireworks. Is it not?”

“Yes! Let’s ask Jaune if we can go.” Said Noir. Velvet and Weiss just smiled at the twins, even after all they went through on the first day, these little girls aren’t afraid.

‘They know Jaune will do everything he can to protect them.’

“WAIT!” they her someone screaming. Jeanne came inside the room glaring angrily at Weiss. “You really had me fooled.”

Chapter Text

“You lied to me!” Jeanne glared angrily at Weiss, that just looked at her not showing any emotion. “Are you going to keep pretending that you don’t speak our language?”

Weiss let out a sigh.

“I won’t.” she answers.

“So, why not speak in Valean? Why pretend?”

“To avoid troubles. But… I was wrong. You still annoyed me, even when I was pretending that I didn’t understand you.”

“Why you…” Jeanne clenched her fists and her glare intensifies.

“Don’t be upset. You were the who was rude to me first. But that’s enough talk, I’m leaving.”

Weiss leaves the room followed by Blanche and Noir.

“Wait.” Jeanne called for her.

“We will have more time to talk later. I’m practically engaged to your brother after all.” Weiss grinned at Jeanne.

“WHAT!!!”

Weiss gets in a carriage with Blanche, Noir, Ruby and Oscar. And they depart to the festival.

________________________________________________________________________________

Joan took Jaune to a big ballroom inside the palace.

“So? What do you think?” asked Joan.

“It’s a beautiful place. What I don’t understand is why are you showing it to me.” Jaune was a little confused.

“Why do you think little brother? It’s for yours and Weiss’ weeding.” she says exitedly.

“WHAT!!!” he turned to his sister wideyed.

“It will be beautiful. You waiting for her over there wearing your formal uniform, and then Weiss walking to you passing under the swords of the knights, wearing a white dress and holding a bouquet of white roses.” Joan eyes were shining in excitment.

“Joan, hold on a minute. It’s too early for us to marry. I mean, we kissed for the first time just two weeks ago, and it’s has been just three days since Weiss admited her feelings for me. You are rushing things.” Jaune was panicking.

“Non-sense. Beside it will help Weiss cause if she returns to Atlas married to you. It will show that she made a strong alliance that will help her country.”

Jaune poundered on what Joan said.

“I… will talk to Weiss about it. But knowing her, she will want to be married in Atlas.”

Joan grinned.

“We shall see little brother, we shall see.”

________________________________________________________________________________

“Come Whisper.” said Ruby pulling her along. “I know a good place to watch the fireworks.”

“Calm down, Ruby. Blanche and Noir can’t run as fast as you.” scolded Weiss.

Going through the crowd they arrived at the spot that Ruby mentioned. It did have a clear view of the entire festival.

“See, great right?”

“Indeed, it is Ruby.” smiled Weiss.

They sat on a bench and waited for the fireworks to start.

“RUBY!!!” Ruby jumped hearing someone calling her name.

Turning, Weiss saw a blond girl coming their way.

“Y-Yang! Hey!” Ruby says a little timid, waiting to be scolded, only to be hugged.

“Where have you been, you idiot? I was so worried, and so was dad.”

“Sorry Yang.”

“Thank the gods, that Jaune found you.”

“Excuse me.” says Weiss. “Who are you?”

Yang finally realized they weren’t alone.

“Oh! Sorry about that. I’m Yang Xiao-Long, the older sister of Ruby.”

“Nice to meet you.” answered Weiss.

“Yang, this is Whisper, she is Jaune’s fiancé. That one is Oscar and you remember Blanche and Noir, right?”

“Of course I do. Jaune’s cute little sisters.” she patted the twins heads, but then it dawned on her what Ruby had said. “Wait.” she looked to Weiss. “She’s Jaune’s what?”

“His fiancé.” repeated Ruby grinning.

“Ruby, it’s not official yet.” said Weiss blushing.

“Wha…” Yang then grinned. “Well, Rusty Boy have hit the jackpot, she is quite cute and appears to be nice.”

Weiss glared at Yang after hearing the nickname she called Jaune.

“I would prefer if you didn’t call Jaune by that nickname. It’s not a good reminder of what happened to him.”

“He never complained.”

“That’s because he tries to not let it get to him. But I know it hurts him to be reminded of the day he received the alias of Rusted Knight.” Weiss after hearing how he got his nickname, did everything she could for Jaune to not hear it again, at least when he was around her.

“Hmm… Overprotective of your man.” Yang grinned again. “I like you already.”

“Yang, watch the fireworks with us.” said Ruby.

“That’s why I came to our secret spot Ruby. I was going to Jaune’s mansion later.”

As soon as they comfortable, the show started. The fireworks of different forms and colors in the sky of Vale made Weiss tear up a little at how beautiful they were.

At the same time another was watching the fireworks.

‘The plan failed two weeks ago. That damn Rusted Knight, I didn’t expect him to be in the middle of the festival. And then that Black Knight almost caught me. I don’t have any more grimms with me thanks to him.” the black haired young woman was frustrated that her plan failed. “I have no other choice but wait for my queen next order. But maybe, I should leave Vale for good.” Cinder Fall looked around and saw Weiss sitting with the others. ‘Well, well, well. Now, look who we have here. I knew it was too good to be true when I heard she died in the mountains, the idiots didn’t have a body and just assumed.’ she grinned. ‘Things just got interesting.’

The fireworks show ended, the girls and Oscar left the bench, going to where the carriage was.

“Where you will be staying Lady Xiao-Long?” asked Weiss as they walked.

“Call me Yang. I will talk to Jaune about staying on his mansion, if it’s not a problem with his fiancé.” Yang grinned at Weiss, who blushed.

“It’s his home. We are not married yet, so it’s not up to me to decide.”

“Hey!” they heard Ruby calling them. They turned to look at her. Oscar was looking around worried. “Did you two see where Blanche and Noir went?”

“What?” Weiss looked around for the little girls.

“They were right behind Oscar and me.” said Ruby. “When I turned to look at them, they had disappeared.”

“Let’s split up in two groups and look for them. They shouldn’t be far.” Weiss said leaving with Oscar.

Ruby and Yang nodded and left as well, calling for the girls.

“BLANCHE! NOIR!” they screamed.

‘Ohm! Please, don’t let anything happen to them. Those sweet girls don’t deserve it. Don’t let Jaune lose anyone he loves again.’ - Weiss prayed silently.

“Lady Whisper!” called Oscar. “Look.”

Turning Weiss saw at what Oscar was pointing. A ribbon, a white ribbon on the floor at the entrance of an alley.

“That’s Blanche’s.” Weiss says running to the alley.

In the alley what she saw disgusted her. Two men where holding Blanche and Noir and dragging them away, but the little girls weren’t making it easy for them, biting, and kicking all the way.

‘Jaune’s sisters indeed.” thought Weiss.

“Shit!” complained one of the thugs that had a green mohawk and was holding Noir. “This little bitch bit me.”

“Shut up, Russel, this is easy money.” said the bigger one. “We just need to bring the white haired one to that woman. And the other, we sell to slavers, it’s a nice revenge against that damn Rusted Knight.”

Weiss gritted her teeth in anger.

“Release those girls, you brutes.” screamed Weiss at them.

They turned to Weiss.

“Hey! Cardin, another girl with white hair.” said Russel.

“Yeah! I think we got the wrong one. No matter, more money to us.” answered Cardin, giving Blanche to Russel and walking towards Weiss. “Come quietly now and you won’t get hurt.”

As he approached, Weiss used her semblance making a glyph right in front of him, when it activated, it throws Cardin against the wall with considerable strength.

“You bitch!” he sneered at Weiss. “The hard way it is.” he moved quickly, far more quickly than Weiss expected from someone of Cardin’s size.

He got in front of Weiss, his hand raised to slap her.

Weiss closed her eyes waiting for the impact. That never came. Opening her eyes she saw Cardin looking behind her, his eyes wide in fear.

“Y-You…” said Cardin. “Why are you here?”

Looking behind her, Weiss saw what made Cardin so afraid.

Pyrrha was behind her, she slowly walked towards Cardin, her green eyes glaring in fury at the thug.

“Lady Pyrrha?” asked Weiss.

“I found Yang and Ruby while walking in the festival, they told me what happened, and then Oscar told us where you had gone.”

Only now, Weiss noticed that Oscar weren’t there.

“So! Cardin Winchester, reduced to a mere thug that kidnaps little girls. Disgusting.” says Pyrrha. “You should have died that day in the palace together with your family. You were far too lucky that Jaune came back to his senses before he chopped off your head.”

Weiss eyes widened when she heard Pyrrha.

The fear in Cardin’s eyes turned into hatred.

“That bastard will pay for what he did.” he said it only to receive a punch in stomach, making the big man fall to his knees.

“Like your family paid for taking part in Jaune’s mother and sister death? Different from Jaune’s family, yours deserved what they got.”

“Russel, take the brats away.” Cardin ordered, looking at his partner. Only to see him on the floor, unconscious.

Yang was standing over the body of Russel, her eyes shining red, glaring at Cardin, Ruby was behind her, comforting the crying twins.

‘She have a Strength type semblance.’ - Weiss thought.

Pyrrha raised Cardin by neck with one hand.

“I will let the queen decide what to do with you. If I leave it to Jaune, it would be over too soon.”

She punched Cardin again and this time he passed out.

“Blanche! Noir!” Weiss ran pass Pyrrha to check on the girls.

“Whisper.” the twins hug Weiss with so much strength that she almost fell to the ground.

With the twins still clinging to her, Weiss turned to look at Pyrrha and Yang.

“Thank you. All of you.”

“You are welcome, Whisper. They are Jaune’s little sisters after all, I couldn’t let anything happen to them.” said Pyrrha smiling at her.

“What Spear Girl said. They are the sisters of one of my best friends, of course I would help.” grinned Yang.

Ruby just blushes, smiles and rubs the back of her head embarrassed.

“You are still calling me that?” complained Pyrrha.

Yang snickered.

“Come on, let’s take those two to the guards. I will swing by Jaune’s mansion after that.”

“Then I shall take them home with Ruby.” said Weiss.

________________________________________________________________________________

They got back at mansion and explained to Jeanne, Port and Velvet what had happened.

“I will call a doctor to look at them.” Jeanne left the room.

Port prepared a bath, Velvet and Weiss then helped clean up the girls. They had some bruises on their arms, legs and cheeks from where those two thugs had grabbed them.

The twins had calmed down a little after the bath, they were sleeping but they still clung to Weiss. Yang had gotten to the mansion in the mean time.

“Ruby and I will stay here with them. Jaune should be home soon and it’s better if he heard what happened from you.” Yang said to Weiss with Ruby nodding as well.

“I understand. Thank you, again. For everything.” said Weiss leaving the twins room.

Few minutes later Jaune arrived home.

“My Lord.” said Port rushing to meet him.

“What happened? You look flustered. Are the girls back from the festival?”

“Yes. Lady Whisper is caring for the twins right now.”

“Caring? Did something happened?”

“Someone tried to kidnap the girls. Lady Whisper, Lady Pyrrha, Lady Ruby and Lady Yang were able to stop them.”

“What?” Jaune rushed past Port that was calling for him. He runs to the twins room When he was about to open the door, Weiss called out for him.

“Jaune.”

“Weiss.” he quickly approaches and hugs her. “Are you okay? The girls, are they okay?”

Weiss smiles at him.

“We are fine Jaune. All of us. The twins have some bruises and are scared, but nothing beyond that. They are sleeping right now, Yang and Ruby are keeping them company. Come.” she takes his hand, “Let’s talk in our room, I will tell what happened.”

They go to the master bedroom, after changing clothes to their sleeping wear, Weiss tells Jaune about Cardin.

“Winchester. That bastard. He was exiled, how was he able to get back to Vale?” Jaune says in anger, before taking a deep breath. “What worries me is that he said a woman hired him to kidnap a girl with white hair.” he looks worried at Weiss.

“Yes. I reached the same conclusion as you. Someone beside Pyrrha, your sister and her aides knows who I am.”

“You are not leaving this mansion alone anymore. When you want to go out, I will go with you.”

“Jaune, you worry too much. Yang and Ruby are here too, certainly I can go with them.”

“No matter. I will worry less if I’m with you.”

‘He’s so stubborn when it comes to these things.’ - Weiss smiles at him.

“Dunce. By the way, you left very early today and only arrived now. Why did your sister want?”

“Oh! Well… She was showing me the ballroom she had reformed in the palace.” He took a deep breath. “She wants for us to get married there.”

“Wha-I-I see.” Weiss blushed.

“She insisted so much, that I promised her that I would ask you. You don’t have to say ‘yes’, you know, I told her that you would probably want to get married in Atlas.”

Weiss though about it a little, before smiling again.

“While it’s true that I would like to get married in Atlas, it doesn’t mean that I can’t married here and then having another ceremony in Atlas.”

Jaune looked surprised at her.

“Are you sure?”

She kisses him instead of answering.

“Well.” he said after the kiss. “Then I guess we are officially engaged now.” As soon as he says that, Weiss kisses him again, both falling on the bed.

Chapter Text

Once again he was running in the darkness.

“Jacques Gelé!” he heard the voice of Nicholas Schnee. “You useless, pathetic man. Do you think you can escape fate?”

No matter how much he runs, the ghost of the former emperor always find him.

“You will burn. And everything you did will be destroyed together with you.”

“AAAAAAAHHHHH!” Jacques screams as he wakes up in cold sweat and his hands shaking.

“DAMN OLD MAN!!!” he screams. “HOW LONG WILL YOU TORMENT ME?”

He calls out for the guard outside his room.

“Bring me Lady Salem.” he orders.

Few minutes later Salem arrives in Jacques room.

“How are you feeling, your highness?” she greets him.

“Those nightmares still plague me. And the backlash of my semblance still affects me. There must be something that I could do to fix this.”

Salem smiled to herself. - ‘Now is the time to get him to do the most important part of my plan.’

“Your highness, I may have the answer.” she says. “The relics, I have done some research about them, and if you are able to get them all together you will be able to make any wish.”

Jacques looks surprised at Salem.

“You want me to gather all of the relics?”

“I even know the location of one of them. The Lamp is in Mistral, hidden in the tomb of the first king.”

“Then we must hurry. I shall send some of my men to retrieve it.” said Jacques getting up, only to be stopped by Salem.

“It can’t be retrieved by just anyone. The person must have royal blood.”

“Well. Then I should go.” he says and Salem shook her head.

“While you carry the name Schnee, your blood is not of the royal family. But your children's are.” Salem smirked.

“Whitley.” says Jacques.

________________________________________________________________________________

Jaune and Weiss are sleeping next to each other. Jaune then heard a murmur.

“Ugh!”

Opening his eyes, he sees Weiss shaking in her sleep.

“What?” he sits looking concerned at Weiss.

“UGH!”

In her dreams, Weiss is sitting on the ground of the dungeon in the Schnee castle, the heads of her friends fall in front of her, but this time followed by the heads of Klein, Winter, her mother, Whitley, Blanche, Noir, Ruby and finally Jaune’s.

“No! NO! NO! NO!” she cries hugging the head of Jaune to her chest.

“Weiss!” She heard someone calling her. “WEISS!” this time stronger.

She wakes up and sees Jaune looking at her concerned, he had shaken her awake.

“Are you okay?” she looks wide eyed at Jaune.

“I had to wake you up. You were breathing hard. What kind of nightmare did you have?”

She doesn’t answer and keeps looking down.

“Hey! Weiss…” Jaune then noticed the tears falling on the bed sheet.

He doesn’t think twice and hugs her.

“Everything is okay now.”

After a minute he releases her. She is still crying.

“The friends I couldn’t save, I saw they dying. Then I saw, Klein, my mother, Whitley, Blanche, Noir, Ruby and you, all dying in front of me and I couldn’t do anything. Then Jacques was there laughing and saying I had no one anymore.” she hugs herself in despair and grits her teeth in anger.

“Jacques.” her voice was trembling in anger. Her nails digs in the skin of her arm with so much force that blood starts to come out from the scratch wounds.

“Weiss!” Jaune calls for her but she is too angry to listen.

“JACQUES!!!” her nails dig deeper opening the wounds more.

“WEISS! STOP!” he yells and hugs her again. This time caressing her hair. “I am your sword!”

Weiss eyes widen hearing him saying that.

“I will destroy anything that makes you scared, and, I am also your shield, that will protect you from anything that tries to harm you. You don’t have to cry anymore, because I am with you, I always will be with you.”

Weiss eyes fills with tears again. She hugs him tightly and cries on his chest.

“WAAAAAHHHH!!!!”

________________________________________________________________________________

The next morning.

Weiss wakes up alone in the bed. Looking around, she doesn’t sees Jaune anywhere in the room.

‘Yesterday?’ she rubs her eyes and let out a yawn. Then she remembers what Jaune said in her “dream” and blushes ‘What a embarrassing dream.’

She then hears the voice of Velvet in the room.

“Lady Whisper. Good morning.”

“Good morning Velvet. Why are you here so early?”

Velvet smiled.

“Just delivering some flowers that Lord Jaune asked for.” she says showing the vase to Weiss.

Weiss sees the small but beautiful white flowers in the vase.

“What is the name of the flower?” she had never seen that.

“They are called Wurunwaic. It’s said they keep nightmares away. Lord Jaune asked to bring them to you.”

Weiss blushes and smiles.

“That dunce.” she says fondly. “How are Blanche and Noir?”

“They are with Lord Jaune, now. He is spoiling them a little.”

Weiss giggles hearing that.

“I’m sure he is.”

“Now, you should change Lady Whisper. The queen have requested yours and Lord Jaune’s presence in the palace.”

_______________________________________________________________________________

Outskirts of Atlas

A tall strong man is sitting behind a desk in his office, his hair is black and he is wearing a Atlas military uniform. He is looking at a map when he hears a knock on his door,

“Come in.” he says.

A young woman with white hair and blue eyes, wearing an Atlas military uniform come inside the room.

“You called for me, General.”

“Ah! Winter, good. I have an assignment for you. We received an envoy from Vale. Or to be more precise, he is a spy from Vale that came to deliver a message.”

“A spy?”

“Hey, Ice Queen.” Winter jumps hearing a voice from behind her. She groans recognizing that voice.

“Qrow Brawen. Why am I not surprised.” she growls at him.

“You jumped.” he smirked.

“Do you want me to make you jump, you drunk bastard.”

“Enough.” says Ironwood, making the two stop their bickering. “Winter, Brawen have brought some news that are quite interesting. Good news, specially for you.”

Winter looks at Qrow, that at a nod from Ironwood starts speaking.

“Your sister, she is alive.”

Winter’s eyes widen hearing that. She grabs Qrow coat and shakes him.

“Don’t lie to me Qrow, if you are lying I swear to the gods I will kill you.”

Qrow grabs her hands to stop her.

“I promise you. She’s not only is alive, but is under the care of the Rusted Knight of Vale.”

“The Rusted Knight?” she then knows the name and the stories about him. “How?”

“Apparently he found her almost dead in the mountains and took her to Vale with him. Don’t worry, if that kid is the one taking care of her, then she is safe.” Qrow assured her.

Tears fill Winter’s eyes.

“Thank the gods. Weiss.” she whispers.

“Anyway.” says Ironwood. “Now that we know you sister is alive, it’s time to start to make our move. Do you think she will try to take back the throne of Atlas?”

“Yes, sir. Knowing Weiss, she will not just stand by.” answered Winter with conviction.

“Very well.” Ironwood then rises from his desk. “You and Qrow will go to Lord Pollendia castle. He have something that might help in taking down Jacques.”

“Understood.” Winter answers, before turning to look at Qrow. “Why are you helping us? You gain nothing from it.”

“I just want to see Jackass getting what he deserves. What that guy did to your sister… Look let’s just say, I have two nieces, and if anything like that happened to them I would do anything to get even.”

________________________________________________________________________________

Arc Mansion – Vale

Jaune is waiting in front of the carriage for Weiss, that after few minutes comes out of the house wearing a beautiful white and black dress.

“You took your time.” he says to her, she glares at him, making him smirk at her. “And it was worth the wait. You look beautiful.” she now blushes at the compliment.

He extends his hand to her, and she takes it smiling at him.

Arriving at the palace they go inside to meet queen, that receives them in her private office. Jaune and Weiss sit on the couch in front of Joan. They don’t waste time and go directly to the topic. Taking down Jacques Gelé.

“I’m sure we can count with the help of General Ironwood. He is different from the other generals that just bow down to whoever is wearing the crown. He serves Atlas, not the royal family. And he never liked the way Jacques did things.” says Weiss.

“That would be a great help. Ironwood’s fame precedes him.” says Joan.

While Weiss and Joan are talking, Jaune turns slightly in his seat and starts to mess with Weiss’ long hair. Weiss pays it no mind and continues to talk with Joan, while drinking tea.

“There is also Lord Pollendia, his family and mine are old friends, I’m sure he will help us.”

‘What is Jaune doing?’ - Joan glaces at Jaune that pays her no mind, and continues to play with Weiss hair. That seems to be enjoying whatever he is doing.

“Pollendia. I’m not familiar with that name.”

“Lord Pollendia specializes in automata research.” says Weiss.

“Automata?” asks Joan confused.

“Oh! I believe you call them Golems in Vale.”

“Ah! That is interesting.”

Now Joan could see what Jaune was doing. He braided Weiss hair, like he did with her when they were children. She smiles at the couple.

“And even if we can’t get the help of Pollendia or Ironwood, there is another path, a rebellion. If the need rises, the people of Atlas will turn against Jacques.” says Weiss drawing he attention of Joan back to her.

“It will be a bloodbath.” says Joan. “Even if they win against the forces of Jacques, the loses will be great.”

“Atlas was build with the sweat and blood a of it’s people, not just the Schnee family. That is something that Jacques forgot.” Weiss pauses for a moment. “Even I did forget for a time.”

“And you will lead this rebellion, I suppose.”

“Not alone. I will be there to show that the Schnee family is alive and will take back Atlas. The one who will lead them will be Jaune.”

“Are you sure, Weiss?” Jaune talks for the first time in this meeting.

Weiss nods.

“When it comes to politics and commerce, I know that I can handle it easily. But battle strategies and tactics, that is not really something I can do.”

“Very well.” he takes the braid he just made in Weiss hair and kisses it. “If that is your wish than I shall do it.”

Weiss blushes and smiles at him.

“Still, you must have another option before starting a rebellion.” insists Joan.

Weiss turns to Joan.

“There is. I intend to find the relics. The legends says that if you get the five relics together, you can make a wish.”

“That is just a legend Weiss.” laughs Joan.

“The Wizard Ozpin is helping me find the relics. That means that there is some truth to the legend.” argues Weiss.

“And what will you wish for?” asks Joan.

“To eliminate the Death aspect semblances. That will leave Jacques powerless.”

Joan pounder on it for a moment.

“That’s interesting.” she let’s out a sigh. “But now, let’s change the subject. When are you two getting married?” she grins making Jaune and Weiss blush.

“JOAN!” they yell together.

________________________________________________________________________________

On the carriage back home, Weiss keeps looking outside, until Jaune grabs her attention with a question.

“What are you thinking about?”

“A lot of things.” she let out a sigh.

“Take your time. If it’s something I can help you with, tell me.”

Weiss looks down to her lap.

“I want to rush and make Jacques and Salem pay for what they did.” her hands are trembling.

Jaune takes her hands. Remembering that night, when Weiss cried after her nightmares.

“Yes! They must pay for making you cry.”

Weiss blushes and turns away from him.

“You exaggerator. It’s normal for people to cry after a nightmare.”

Jaune then hugs her from behind.

“You are right. People can cry after a nightmare. But I don’t want to see you crying.”

“Are you making fun of me?”

He turns her, so she can look in his eyes.

“I’m not. It’s just what I wish. Don’t waste your tears because of Jacques. Everything will be alright.”

Weiss smiles at Jaune.

“I believe you.” she says before kissing him.

Chapter Text

Inside the carriage Weiss is looking out the window while Jaune hugs her from behind, with his arm around her shoulder.

Weiss sees the the building where the night market is, through the window.

“Jaune, let’s stop here for a moment.”

Jaune looks outside, and nods at Weiss.

They leave the carriage and Weiss goes inside the building, followed by Jaune, and looks around the tables. She stops at a table looking at the items exposed there, until her eyebrow starts to twitch in annoyance.

“Can’t I walk around on my own?” she gives an annoyed look at Jaune, that is looking over her shoulder and gives her a confused look.

She let’s out a sigh.

“Are you really that worried?” she asks.

“After what happened the other night. Yes, I am.” is his answer.

“Look.” she gestures around, “There are a lot of people here, and also guards. I will be fine.”

Jaune still looks unsure.

“If you wait outside, I will buy you a present.”

“Whisper. You don’t need to.”

She smiles at him.

“I want to. Now, go wait outside. I will be out shortly.”

Jaune gives her a kiss on the cheek and leaves the market. As soon as he leaves, Weiss starts to look around again.

‘Let’s see, for Port a handkerchief, for Velvet a golden hairpin will look good with her hair, for the twins, a white bunny plush for Blanche and a black one for Noir…’ she goes around buying gifts for all the people that helped her.

Taking the bags she leaves the market and meets Jaune.

“Done?”

She nods at him and blushes a little, something that leaves Jaune puzzled.

“Are you okay? You look a little red.”

“I-I’m fine. Let’s go home.”

“What did you buy me?” he asks, grinning at her.

“I’m not going to tell you. You will have to wait. It’s a gift that comes with conditions.”

“Conditions? What kind of conditions?”

She smiles at him still blushing.

“You will have to wait and see.”

The next morning. A nude Jaune awakes beside an equally nude Weiss, that is still sleeping, with her head on top of his chest, his arms around her, a satisfied and peaceful smile on her face.

‘That’s the best gift she could have given me.’ he smiles and kisses her forehead.

“Remember the conditions for your gift?” she reminds him, kissing his cheek.

“I do. I am never going to leave you. It’s a promise. And an Arc-”

She interrupts him by kissing him again, this time on the lips.

“An Arc never breaks his promises.” she smiles at him, once again resting her head on his chest.

“Do you want to get married here or in Atlas?”

“Hmmm… It doesn’t matter. I just want my family there to see. Mother, Winter and Whitley. Klein as well.”

“Of course. Just a reminder. If we marry here you will get points with your sister-in-law.”

________________________________________________________________________________

North Region of Atlas.

Two horses run amidst the snow covered ground. On one horse, a beautiful woman with white hair, on the other a man with black hair.

‘I must hurry. Weiss needs me, I won’t fail her now.’ Winter grits her teeth believing she failed her sister by not being in the Schnee castle when their father turned against her.

“Ice Queen.” screams Qrow from his horse, Winter deep in her thoughts doesn’t notice the call. “WINTER!”

Now she turns to him.

“What is it?”

“The weather is getting worse.” he says as more snow starts to fall on them. “We need to find shelter, before the wind picks up.” he points towards a wooden shack.

Just now noticing the pilling snow, Winter nods at Qrow. They hurry towards to structure, easily opening the door and getting inside. Qrow quickly lights up the fireplace, warming up the small wood house. In the meantime Winter takes out a letter she received just before departing from the base, luckily it got to her before she left.

- Dear sister. I hope this letter finds you in good health. I will not tell you where I am at this moment as it could be dangerous to the people who have saved me.
Sister, It came to my knowledge that these last developments on Atlas are the work of Lady Salém and her minions and Jacques became her pawn without even noticing it. I am afraid her tendrils have reached as far as Vale.
Soon I shall come to see you. Let’s meet at Lord Polendia’s castle, there we can discuss about what shall be our next move. Don’t worry, I am well protected and will have a safe journey back home. I am very anxious to meet you again.-

‘This handwriting… It’s Weiss without a doubt. But it came from Argus. So mother must have send this as a request from her.’ Winter smiles, before noticing that there is more written there.

- PS: I am engaged to be married soon. You shall meet my future husband when we meet again. Then again, he could be my husband already when we see each other, since his sister keeps insisting for us to get married before departing. -

“WHAT?” yells Winter, startling Qrow. “She… what? Who?”

“What is it?”

“My sister… Weiss… she is getting married.”

“Isn’t this happy news?”

“I don’t even know the man she is getting married to. I can’t accept this.”

“It’s probably the Rusted Knight.”

“What do you know about him?”

“He had some rough times when he was a kid, but is a very nice guy. He’s a friend of my nieces, treats them really well.”

“Treats them well?” she narrows her eyes at Qrow.

“Not that way! He is kind to them.”

“But he’s not royalty. My sister is a princess, that soon will become Empress, how can she marry a simple knight… even one as famous as the Rusted Knight is beneath her.”

“So you prefer your sister to marry a noble son of bitch like Jacques then a kind knight like Jaune?”

Winter is taken a back by Qrow words.

“No. You are right.” she let’s out a sigh. “So, his name is Jaune. I didn’t know that.”

“Yeah! Jaune Arc. By the way the Queen of Vale is his older sister.”

Winter eyes widen.

“WHAT?”

_______________________________________________________________________________

“My Lady.” Velvet calls Weiss from outside her room.

“Come in, Velvet.”

“Good Morning, Lady Whisper. Should I help you prepare for your journey?” smiles Velvet.

“Please.” Weiss smiles at Velvet, before sitting in front of the mirror. She is wearing a dark blue dress and high legged boots. Velvet brushes her hair, before tying it up in a ponytail.

“I heard that ships are unable to enter Atlas.” comments Velvet.

“Yes, I heard it as well. It seems that I will have to be on the back of a horse for a month.” not that she was really complaining, Jaune was going with her, and Goliath, while a big war horse, is quite a gentle giant, like his owner. She grew to love that horse as well.

“Then, I shall share the burden. I will go with you and Master Jaune.” the bunny faunus girl says with a determinate look in her eyes.

“Velvet, It will be an arduous journey. I couldn’t ask you to join Jaune and me on it.”

“Then don’t ask. I am going on my own will. I love my master, there is no secret in that.” she smiles at Weiss. “And I have grown to love Lady Whisper like a sister. Both of you deserve to be happy. And together you two are really happy. I want to be there for you and him.”

Weiss hugs Velvet that returns the hug.

“Thank you, Velvet. Thank you.”

Outside Jaune’s mansion Joan is on top of a brown horse, Jaune and Pyrrha are talking to her.

“I will find the lamp and the staff for you. No matter what. Vi and Saph are going to help.” Joan tells Jaune and he nods to her. “Meanwhile you go to Atlas and get the supports of Polendia and Ironwood as we planned. We will meet there and hopefully put an end to this mess.” she frowns.

“Sister. What’s wrong?”

Joan shakes her head.

“Nothing, just… I took down a tyrant here in Vale. Now, I am about to bring down another in Atlas. Well, that man deserves it. See you then, little brother.”

Jeanne riding beside Joan, waves goodbye at Jaune and winks at him.

Weiss comes out of the mansion, followed by Velvet, Ruby, Oscar, Yang, Blanche, Noir and Neige.

“There she is.” he turns to Pyrrha. “Pyr, Velvet will go with you as well, take the Juniper Knights, Yang, Ruby and Oscar and meet us in Mantle. We go to Atlas from there. I will go with Whisper to Vacuo, there is something there I must confirm.”

“Understood.” confirms Pyrrha. “I will prepare everyone right away.”

“Vacuo.” says Weiss. “The rumors about the sword… you think they are true?” she asks curious.

“No!” denies Jaune immediately. “Believe me, you don’t need to worry about the sword. What I want is to meet and old friend I have there. Something just feels strange about the kidnapping of Oscar. I just need to confirm it.”

“You believe it’s not a coincidence.”

Jaune nods.

Port approaches them with Goliath.

“Be careful the two of you. Specially you Lady Whisper.”

Weiss smiles at the old servant, before being hugged by Blanche and Noir.

“Come back soon, Whisper.” Blanche tells her crying.

“We want to hear you sing again.” Noir is also shedding tears.

“MEEEWWW!” Neige wails as well.

“Calm down, you three.” says Jaune hugging his sisters. “You will be seeing her again soon, either here, or in Atlas.”

“Why Atlas?” asks Noir.

“Soon.” Jaune simply says patting their heads.

Weiss waves goodbye to the twins and the fox before climbing on back of Goliath with Jaune, hugging his waist to secure herself.

“Let’s go.” says Jaune.

And the journey of Weiss and Jaune began.

Chapter Text

They had entered the desert that leads to Vacuo, Goliath gallops at a steady and comfortable pace. Weiss hug on Jaune tightens.

“Jaune?” she asks uncertain.

“Hmm?” Jaune glances back at her.

“If the plan fails… what then?” her eyes don’t leave the desert sand.

“Weiss… Have more faith in your friends. Stop trying to bear all the burden by yourself. You did it once before, when all this mess started. You have me by your side now and you know that I will do anything I can for you. Remember my promise, I will be with you until my last breath. I will stay by your side no matter what. And I know that I am not the only one who thinks that way, everyone of our friends, in their own way, are doing what they can to help you.”

Weiss smiles and kisses Jaune’s neck.

“Thank you, my love.” she then rests her head on Jaune’s back. - ‘I will no longer dwell on the past. Despair will no longer take hold of my heart. There are people waiting for me and I will return to them in victory.’ - “Speaking of help. I hope my letter reached Winter, she will be a great help for us, if she reaches Lord Polendia before we arrive.”

“Winter is your older sister, right?” he feels Weiss nodding on his back. “I hope she won’t try to cut off my head when she finds out we are engaged.” he chuckles a little, but hears nothing from Weiss.

“…”

“Weiss?” he asks concerned, “She won’t try to kill me, will she?”

“…”

________________________________________________________________________________

Polendia Castle is a magnificent structure, one of the biggest castles in Atlas. Well guarded from attacks of the Grimms and enemy armies, it stays close to the border of Atlas and Argus.

“It must have been a long and arduous journey from the northern border to this place, Princess Winter.” Lord Pietro Polendia, an old man with brown skin and gray hair sitting on a wheelchair greets Winter and Qrow as they are brought to a room with elegant furniture.

“Lord Polendia. It has been a long time since we last meet. I am glad to see you well.” Winter says taking a sip from her tea.

“Thank you. I got deeply saddened by what happened to Crown Princess Weiss, she would have made an exceptional Empress.” his fists tighten on the chair’s arm. “And having saying that, I must ask, what brings you here?” he gives the two a calculating glare. “You braved a great distance during a snow storm, why?”

‘He believes I want to take the throne for myself. I can see it in his eyes.’

“We came here for your aid.” Winter says after taking a deep breath.

“My aid? In what?” Polendia looks at both his visitors. “And who is this gentleman?” he indicates Qrow.

“To take back the throne from Jacques Gele. To have a Schnee sitting on the white throne again.”

“That Schnee being you?”

“No, not me-”

“Your little brother then?” interrupts Polendia.

“Not him either. You asked who this man is, his name is Qrow Branwen and he comes from Vale.”

“Vale?” Polendia asks surprised. “I don’t understand. Why is a Valean man here in Atlas?”

“He brought news, happy news. My sister lives and she hides in Vale.” Winter smiles at Lord Polendia.

“That is impossible!” the lord eyes widen. “She was left to die at the northern mountains, no one survives alone there.”

“She wasn’t alone.” Qrow speaks. “A caravan of diplomats where returning home, the diplomat was a knight of Vale and he found her almost dead on the mountains. He saved her.”

“That… that is impossible… the chances of this happening-”

“We are not lying.” Winter interrupts. “I received a letter from her before leaving. I recognize her hand writing and she is coming home, with the army of Vale at her back.”

“How? How can she mobilizes the army of another nation and one like Vale, that I must remind you, doesn’t have a good relationship with Atlas.”

“The knight that saved her, is the Rusted Knight. You must have heard about him.” Qrow says next.

“Indeed I have, but even so, he is just a knight.” insists Pietro.

“A knight that happens to be the little brother of the Queen of Vale, Joan Goodwitch, and that now is about to be married to Princess Weiss.” Qrow says, Winter grits her teeth every time she remembers that. “They could even be married already.” he says grinning, just to make Winter angrier.

“T-That’s true.” Winter says, her left eyebrow twitching. “And we need your support to take back the throne for Weiss.”

“I-I have a lot to think about.” Pietro says. “My servants will take you to bedrooms so you can rest after such a long journey.

After Qrow and Winter leave the room a new voice is heard.

“They are telling the truth, father.” An orange haired girl comes out from behind a tapestry on the wall. “I didn’t detect any indication of lies.”

Pietro let’s out a sigh.

“I see. Thank you, Penny. Why don’t you go see if Maria needs help, I am sure she would be happy to have you there.” the old man smiles at the girl.

“I will. See you later, father.” the girl happily leaves the room.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Winter seats on a stone in front the lake near the Polendia Castle.

‘I need to send a letter to mother, ask her if she knows Weiss’ husband.’

She hears the crunching sound of someone stepping on the snow behind her. Her hand reach for the sword at her belt.

“There you are.” she hears the voice of Qrow.

“Qrow.” she sighs in relieve. “Why are you here?”

“It’s getting dark and dinner will be served soon. I came to tell you that.”

“Oh! It’s that late already?” Winter raises from the stone and starts to walk back to the castle.

“You are worried about your sister coming back to Atlas.” Qrow says. “Knowing that kid, Jaune, he wouldn’t let anything happen to her.”

“Is he really as strong as the rumors say?” Winter asks curious.

“If the rumors say that he single handed destroyed almost all the noble families loyal to the old king of Vale, then, yes, they are truth.”

“Impressive.”

Qrow let’s out a sigh.

“It’s not a heroic story. He did that in a moment that the blood fury took over him, after he saw his mother Juniper and his little sister Rouge being killed in front of him. It was really sad, the girl was just nine years old when it happened.”

“Gods. You said that the blood fury took over him, what does that means?”

“Oh! Right, in Atlas, you call it berserker rage.”

Winter looks worried.

“Are you telling me that a berserker is to be married to my sister?”

“If you are worried that he will hurt her, then don’t be. That kid saves people, he doesn’t hurt them, unless they hurt someone he loves.”

________________________________________________________________________________

After hours of traveling in the desert, Jaune and Weiss finally arrive at an oasis, the perfect stopping point for the day.

“Whoa! Goliath. That’s all for today.” Jaune stops his horse, dismounting, and helping Weiss down, taking the opportunity to hug her.

“It’s a beautiful place.” Weiss comments enjoying the hug. “Are we camping like we discussed before leaving Vale?”

“We will, and we need to prepare things right away if we want to have everything ready before the sun sets.” Jaune smiles at her.

“What can I do to help?”

“You can care for Goliath, that carried us all day.” as Jaune says that, the black steed huffs, and pushes his head against Weiss, wanting attention. “See, he likes you already.” Jaune laughs. “You can leave everything else to me.” he kisses her and was about to release from the hug, before remembering something. “Oh! And stay close to where I am, this area is known for having snakes slithering around.”

Weiss pales and looks fearful at him. If there is one thing that she is afraid of, is snakes.

“Please, tell me you are joking.” she grabs his cloak with trembling hands.

“Sorry, I’m not.”

At night they ate their dinner and were laying down sleeping. Weiss turns in her sleep, now facing Jaune, that awakes and smiles remembering her trembling in fear of snakes.

‘She is just too adorable.’ then he frowns. ‘How could that man do such a thing to her, beat her, taunt her and leave her to die. Coward, pathetic fool, I will make sure you suffer before you die, Jacques Gele.’ he grit his teeth in anger. ‘With my own hands, I will extinguish your live and that of your mistress.’

He hears a hissing sound behind him. Turning his head, he sees a King Taiju approaching.

‘Not the type of snake I was talking about, but still.’

He raises from the bedding being careful to not awake Weiss, and taking Crocea Mors out of it’s scabbard. Both heads of the Grimm creature hiss at him.

“Well, I was starting to get angry, so you will serve as a good outlet for it.”

The white head hisses again, loudly.

“Be quiet. Don’t you dare wake the lady up.” Jaune let’s out a sigh. “Let’s just get this over with.”

He quickly moves as the white head attacks, Crocea Mors slices through it’s neck like hot knife on butter, the black head bites on Jaune's left shoulder, the Rusted Knight stabs the grimm snake’s eye killing it. He glares at the body of the giant snake.

“Size is not everything after all.” he glaces at the sleeping Weiss. “Thank the gods that she didn’t wake up. Now to get rid of it before she sees it.”

Weiss stirs in under her blanket.

“What is this smell? Burned meat?” she rubs her eyes.

“Sorry! I woke you up.” she hears Jaune’s voice.

“Why are you still awake?” she asks turning to look at him and gasps in shock. In a pyre is the body of a giant snake. “What in the world is that?”

“That’s a King Taiju. A very big snake.” he answers taking a glance at her.

“Such a monster.” once again she let’s out a gasp seeing the blood on his left side. “Jaune! Your shoulder.”

“It’s okay, my Semblance already healed the wound and neutralized the poison.” he rubs the back of his head. “Would it be strange if I say that I am happy that you are worried about me?”

“You dolt.” She raised from the covers and hugs him. After a few minutes, Jaune releases her. “Where are you going?”

“I am covered in blood, so I am going to the river and bathe.” he starts to walk away.

“Ah! Wait.” she calls to him. “Don’t take too long, there could be more snakes around.”

He smiles at her.

“Don’t worry, other snakes must have got the scent of the King Taiju by now, they won’t come near here.”

“Fine.” she pouts looking away. “Go take your bath.”

‘She is so cute.’ he chuckles.

“I won’t be long.” he says leaving towards the river.

Some minutes pass and no sign of Jaune. Weiss gets a little restless and follows the sound of the water to the river, arriving there quickly. She gathers the water on her hand and washes her face with it.

‘It’s cold.’ then Weiss looks around. ‘It’s near our camp, he should have returned already.’

SPLASH!

She hears the sound of something on the water, quickly turning, she sees a naked Jaune bathing in the river, very near to where she is.

“Jaune?”

He turns to her.

“Weiss?”

She takes a look at him… a very good look, the water reaches his waist, she can’t see below the water surface, but, can’t help and blush hard. She quickly turns her head away.

“You… You were gone for a while. So, I came looking for you.”

“I see.” he smiles at her, extending his hand. “Come here.”

She recalls the many times she swatted his hand away, but not anymore. She goes to take his hand, before recalling that he is inside the river.

“Turn around.” she tells him.

He looks at her confused.

“Weiss, we already saw each other-”

“I don’t care you dolt. Turn around.”

He does as she asks, hearing the ruffle of her taking off her clothes. A moment later, he feels her arms around him.

“I can still get shy, you know.” she mumbles on his back.

“I see. And what if I do this.” In a quick move he send both of them into the water.

Both their heads come out, hers with a perplexed look and his with a boyish grin.

“You! Now you are going to get it!” she splashes his face.

He laughs and answers in kind, none of them caring about their nakedness.

After playing in the water, they are both sitting on a blanket, already dressed. Jaune is drying Weiss long hair with a towel.

“I am fine now. Maybe I should dry your hair.” Weiss says glancing back at Jaune.

“There is still water dripping from yours.” Jaune shakes his head smiling, before hugging her from behind and kissing her neck.

“Stop right there, mister.” She frowns at him. “We have to keep traveling tomorrow. Let’s go to sleep.”

“If you are sleepy tomorrow I can carry you while you sleep on Goliath.” he teases her.

“Stop talking non-sense. Let’s sleep. Good night.” she takes a blanket and warps around herself.

“Weiss.” he calls and she turns to look at him, only to be surprised by a kiss on her lips. “Good night.” he then lies down beside her.

‘This man will be the death of me, I’m sure of that.’

Chapter Text

Weiss is walking in a dark space, she looks around her and there is nothing.

“Great… here again.”

She knows that this is a dream, but still there is a bit of apprehension in what she will see.

“Snowflake.” she hears the voice of her grandfather.

“Grossvater.” she says happily turning to see the old man that was once the emperor of Atlas.

“I am so proud of of you, my little Snowflake.”

“I have so much to tell you.” she felt like a child again. “Soon I will be able to take Atlas back and Mother, Winter and Whitley will all be together again. I will get married soon as well-”

Nicholas laughs and pats her head.

“I know. He seems like a good man.”

“He is.” she confirms.

“Does he make you happy?”

“He does.

“Then that’s all that matters. Remember Weiss, what matters is not the throne of Atlas, but that you, your mother and your siblings are happy.”

“I understand.”

“Very good. Now, wake up. Your beloved awaits for you.”

________________________________________________________________________________

Weiss feels someone holding her hand. Turning, she sees Jaune. But what surprises her is the fact that they are in a room, a nice room.

“Jaune. Where are we?”

“Good morning.” he chuckles. “We are in Vacuo. You fell asleep on top of Goliath.”

“I-I see.” she still feels a bit out of it.

“You still looks tired. Rest, I will meet some of my contacts here in Vacuo. This house belongs to my family, so you can be at ease.”

“I will go with you.” she tries to stands.

“Stay, rest. I will tell about it after you are fully rested.”

He leaves the room and Weiss feel her eyes closing again.

________________________________________________________________________________

“Have you located it?” Jaune asks the other four people in the room

“We have. The man said to have the sword is currently in the east side of the city. Scarlet is keeping an eye on him.” answer a blonde haired monkey faunus man.

“Thank you, Sun. That’s good work.”

“No problem man, what are friends for.” Sun grins at his friend.

Jaune glances to the quiet woman wearing a hood over her head and drinking tea.

“Why are you hiding your ears Princess Blake?” he asks raising an eyebrow.

The cat faunus girl chokes on her tea.

“Don’t call me princess!!! And this is a disguise.”

“Just a hood? It’s like the same thing as using a ribbon to hide your ears.”

“Nah! That would be ridiculous.” she dismisses the idea.

“Have you ran away again?”

“I-I just want to travel a little.” She says not looking at Jaune.

“Lord Ghira knows you are here. Just to inform you.” Jaune says to her surprise. “Send me a letter asking me to let you use this house while you stay in Vacuo.”

“How?”

“I guess your father knows you better then you think.”

Blake pouts, while Sun snickers.

“Now, I will to go have breakfast with my fiancee.” Jaune says. “And Neptune, if you try to flirt with her, rest assured that you will be losing the head that you use to think instead of the head attached to your neck.”

The blue haired man looks at Jaune confused while the others laugh at him.

Jaune carrying a plate full of fruits knocks of the of the room and waits for an answer.

“Come in.”

He enters the room, seeing Weiss sitting in front of the mirror brushing her hair, he sits on the edge of the bed and shows her the plate.

“Let’s eat and then follow the lead my contacts discovered. They are some old friends of mine, there is one of them that you will find very interesting.”

“Really?” Weiss sits beside him taking an apple and biting on it. “Who is he?”

“Her name is Blake. I think you two will hit it off.” he smirks at her.

Weiss narrows her eyes at him.

“Another girl. Not counting Ren all your other friends are woman. I wonder why is that?”

Jaune gives a nervous laugh.

“That’s not really my fault. It just sort of happened. And I have other men friends, there are Sun and Neptune as well.”

She glares at him for a moment more before letting out a sigh.

“Very well, let’s meet this friend of yours.”

After eating they move downstairs, Weiss see the three friends of Jaune sitting on the couches.

“Guys, let me introduce you, this is Whisper, my fiancee. Whisper these are Sun, Neptune and Blake.”

“A pleasure to meet you all.” she then looks at Blake that is wearing her hood. “Why is she wearing a hood inside the house. Is that some kind of custom in Vacuo that I am unaware of?” she whispers to Jaune.

“That’s her disguise.” Jaune answers.

“It’s not polite to whisper about others you know?” Blake says.

Jaune laughs.

“As if you are one to talk.”

“What are you talking about? I am always polite.” she smirks smugly at him.

“Really now? Because I remember quite well that day when you meet me and my sister.”

“Forget about that!!!” she jumps and runs to Jaune covering his mouth. Jaune takes the opportunity to take off her hood. “NYAAA!!!” She complains trying now to cover her cat ears.

“Cat ears… And your name is Blake.” Weiss thinks a little. “Ah! You are Princess Blake Belladona of Menagerie.”

“I am nyot. I mean, I am not.”

“That’s okay Blake, you don’t need to be so nervous. Whisper will not tell anyone. Right?” Jaune looks at Weiss.

“I will not, I swear. And I would be really grateful if your took some distance from my betrothed.” She glares at Blake.

“Ah! Sure.” Blake steps away from Jaune. “Your platinum white hair. You are from Atlas aren’t you?”

“Born and raised there, yes.”

“I see. It’s just, you look really familiar. Have we ever meet before?”

“I don’t think so.”

“How did you and Jaune, meet.” asks Neptune. “If I have to say for myself, you are a waste on this guy.” he smirks pointing at Jaune.

“Oh! Well, Jaune saved while he was in Atlas and gave me shelter when I had no where to go. As time went by we ended up falling in love with each other.” Weiss then smiles at Neptune. “And for sure I can say that you are an idiot.” she then turns to Jaune. “Why are you friends with him?”

Neptune pouts as Jaune laughs at him. After that, they leave to find the man that is supposed to have the sword relic.

“Are you going to negotiate with him to obtain the sword?” Weiss asks while they are in route to meet the man.

“Not exactly.”

She frowns hearing the answer. Jaune brings Goliath to a stop.

“Something is wrong.” he says seeing his friends hiding behind some trees.

He dismount from Goliath and take Weiss down as well.

“Be careful.” she tells him looking a little worried.

He nods at her and move to see what was wrong while Blake approaches Weiss.

“What is it?” Blake asks.

“I don’t know. Jaune said that something is wrong.”

Jaune looks between bushes and frowns at what he sees. A house and two dead men on the ground. Guards most likely.

“What now?” asks Sun.

Jaune frowns.

“We go in. Cover your faces.”

Jaune wears his helmet, while Sun and Neptune cover their faces with clothes leaving only their eyes out. Blake have her head already covered with her hood and Weiss uses a black veil to cover her head and face. Quietly, they approach the house. They hear yelling from inside the house.

“There is no way I will give it to you.”

“Just tell us where it is and we won’t have to make you suffer.”

‘I know those voices.’ Weiss thinks while they are listening.

“Someone else looking for the relics.” Jaune draws Croacea Mors as Sun and Neptune prepare their weapons.

“Jaune, wait.” Weiss holds his hand. “I recognize that voice. Let’s go.” She opens the door. There is a man on the floor and two armed people surround him. A girl and a dog faunus man.”

“Who goes there?” asks the girl.

“Did you call for help?” the faunus man asks the one on the floor.

“I don’t know them.” he answers.

“It has been a long time.” Weiss says to them.

“Are you talking to us? Who are you?” the faunus man asks.

“Do you not recognize me?” Weiss removes her veil. “How about now?”

“T-that can’t be-” the girl whispers. “Y-Your highness…”

“The General received my letter then.”

“It’s impossible… the northern mountains spares no one.” the dog faunus says.

Jaune puts his hand on Weiss shoulder and pulls her closer to him.

“This is not the place for us to talk. Come to my residence and then we can talk. Obviously we will be taking this man as well.” Jaune proposes.

“Jaune.” she whispers blushing a little.

The dog faunus looks at the short haired girl, that nods at him.

“We shall take your kind offer.” the girl says.

Jaune nods.

“Sun, Neptune. Take this man… make him talk.”

As the two men take the slave trader away, Blake approaches Weiss.

“Your highness huh?” she glares at Weiss. “Did you think I wouldn’t recognize you, Princess Weiss?”

“So what? Princess Blake of Menagerie.” grins Weiss at Blake.

Blake looks away.

“And how are you and Jaune friends?”

Blake glares at Weiss again.

“How are you and Jaune engaged?”

“Fair enough.”

________________________________________________________________________________

In Jaune’s house they are seated on a large table, on one side is Jaune, Weiss and Blake, on the other is the girl, named Ciel and the dog faunus Marrow.

“Princess Weiss, who is this… gentleman that seems very close to you?” Ciel asks.

Weiss smiles at them.

“This is Jaune Arc, my fiancee.”

“Fiancee??” Marrow almost jumps up from his seat.

“He also known as the Rusted Knight.”

“I am called that, yes.” Jaune smirks.

“But… wha… how?”

“Why are you surprised? I believe I wrote that on the letter I sent to Ironwood.” Weiss asks confused.

“We don’t know about a letter. The General dispatched us to retrieve the sword as soon as Captain Winter left on a special assignment.” Marrow answers her.

‘Winter must be on route to Lord Pollendia. Good.’

“But, how were you able to survive in the mountains?” Ciel is really perplexed by this fact.

Weiss smiles and takes Jaune’s hand.

“He saved me, he found me almost dead in the mountains and saved me.”

“But how? The cold there… it’s just impossible.” Marrow still can’t believe it.

“I can’t tell you… it’s just…” Weiss shakes her head.

“It’s his semblance.” answers Blake taking a sip from her tea.

“BLAKE!” yells Weiss glaring at the faunus princess.

“That’s okay Weiss.” Jaune assures her and lightly squeezes her hand.

“Semblance? But there is no…” Ciel pauses. “Life… the rarest of them all.”

Weiss nods.

“That’s how he saved me.”

“My princess.” Marrow raises from his seat and bows to her finally accepting completely that she is the same Weiss he meet on the Schnee Castle. “Please, come back. Atlas needs you. We need you to take you place as empress.”

Weiss smiles at Marrow, remembering the words her grandfather said in her dream.

“I am no longer a princess of Atlas. Nor do I intent to take the throne for me. I mean to get married and live as Whisper Arc.”

“B-But.” Marrow sits again. “Will you abandon Atlas to that man madness?”

Weiss shakes her head.

“I will not. Jacques Gelé will pay for his crimes. But I will not become empress.”

“Then who? Who will sit on the throne?”

“Simple. The one who should have been there since the passing of my grandfather. My mother Willow.”

________________________________________________________________________________

Ciel and Marrow are departing from the Arc estate. They are already mounted in their horses and talking with Jaune and Weiss.

“Are you sure about this?” Ciel asks looking concerned.

“I am. You need gain the trust of Jacques.” Jaune answers. “Giving him the sword will be enough to earn it. Having people inside the Schnee castle will be useful when the time comes.”

Ciel nods at him.

“Your highness, are you sure about not taking the throne?” Marrow looks at Weiss.

“I am. My grandfather made a mistake naming me his heir, in doing so, Jacques took the opportunity to take over. It should have been my mother.”

Marrow nods resigned, and both Atlas soldiers leave.

“Are you really sure about letting them take the sword?” asks Weiss when they are inside the house.

“Of course.” Jaune answers unconcerned. “After all, that sword was a fake.”

“What?” Weiss looks surprised at Jaune. “How do you know?”

“We had the real one with us all this time.” he smirks at her.

“All this…” her eyes widen. “Crocea Mors.”

“Yep. We came here to confirm my suspicions. Jacques is also after the relics.”

Weiss looks impressed for a moment, before she glares at him and stomps on his foot.

“OUCH! What was that for?” for someone her size she can stomp quite hard.

“That’s for not telling about the sword.” she then grabs his hand and pull him down a little, kissing him very hard. “And that’s for the clever plan.” she then walks away towards their room. “If you come with me, I can show you a plan of my own.”

Jaune quickly follows after her.

Chapter Text

Jaune, Weiss and Blake traveled all day, as the sun is setting they arrive at an inn on the outskirts of Mantle.

“Lady Whisper.” they hear the familiar voice of Oscar. “Welcome.”

“Hey bestie.” greets Ruby waving at Jaune.

“Ruby.” he greets his friend. “Was the travel hard?”

“It was fine. Pyrrha made sure we got here without any problems.” She answers him. “Who is your friend?” she asks seeing the hooded Blake.

“Forgot about me already?” she removes her hood revealing her cat ears.

“BLAKE!!!!” she rushes and hugs her friend. “It has been so long.”

“Where are Pyrrha and the others?” asks Jaune.

“They are sparring in the back of the inn.” answers Oscar.

“I will go have a little talk with them. Whisper you can go ahead and rest.”

“I will take you there.” Oscar volunteers.

Jaune let Ruby guide Goliath to the stables while she talks with Blake that is taking her horse there as well.

“Don’t take too long.” Weiss calls out to him.

“I won’t.” Jaune answers her.

After taking a bath, Weiss gets inside the room assigned to her and Jaune, and just lies on the bed, it was a tiring trip. And tomorrow morning they will continue traveling this time with the Juniper Knights. Her hands reach for the space beside her on the bed.

‘When did I start to miss having Jaune by my side?’

The door opens and Jaune enters the room.

“Oh! Sorry, did I wake you up? I will just dry my hair and join you.” he sits on the edge of the bed and continues to dry his hair with the towel.

“Here.” says Weiss taking the towel from him. “Let me.”

She starts to dry his hair,

“Having trouble sleeping?” he asks her after his hair is dry.

She shakes her head and smiles.

“No. Was just waiting for you.”

They both lie in the bed, since the bed is a little small Jaune hugs her really close to his body. Taking in her scent he gives her neck a kiss. She turns to face him and they kiss. Jaune starts to remove her night clothes. Weiss was letting him, but them suddenly, as if struck by lightning stops him.

“Wait. Not tonight.”

“Why? I know you want to.” he says confused.

“We have been doing it a little too much recently.” she let’s out a sigh. “If this keeps going I will end up pregnant before we get married.”

Realization hits Jaune.

“Oh! Today is not a good day then.”

“It’s not.”

“Okay. But we can still cuddle, right?” he gives her the sad puppy eyes.

She let’s out a sigh.

“Yes. You big baby.”

________________________________________________________________________________

The next morning.

Jaune and the commanders of the Juniper Knights are sitting around a table in the inn.

“The plan will proceed as this. We will move to Pollendia castle in order to secure the cooperation of lord Pollendia. From there I will visit Atlas using my position as Vale Consul as an excuse in order to obtain information from inside the Schnee Castle. The Juniper Knights will act as my escort. Meanwhile, Joan will arrive in Pollendia Castle with the Vale army and hopefully, General Ironwood will make his move as well. The army will stay within a day travel from Atlas.”

“Will all of us go with as your escort?” Pyrrha asks. “Won’t Jacques suspect anything?”

“He is too proud to believe that Vale would attack Atlas. He believes that since we have a trading agreement with him it would not benefit us to start a war.” Jaune smirks. “The point is, when I made the agreement I made sure it was only with Princess Weiss. And since the Princess is gone…”

“The agreement is not valid. And Jacques doesn’t know about it.” Ren says impressed. “Well played.”

“That’s the plan for now. We will depart immediately.” Jaune stands up. “Dismissed.”

They ride during all day, Jaune in the front with Goliath, the others following, Weiss, Ruby, Oscar and Velvet are in a carriage in the middle of the formation of the knights.

“Jaune!” Pyrrha calls out to him. “It’s getting late. The sun will set soon.”

Jaune stops and looks at the sky, before nodding.

“This place is flat enough. We set camp here.” he orders

Everyone dismounts and starts to put up the tents. Jaune looks around. There is snow everywhere he looks.

“We must be very close to Mantle.” he hears the voice of Weiss as she approaches him. “Wolves lurk around here.”

Jaune nods.

“I will take a look around. See if I can find a river nearby and hunt dinner for us. Pyrrha and the others will stay to secure the camp.” he takes a bow and some arrows.

“Be careful.” she calls out to him, as he leaves, before going inside their tent.

Finding the river was easy enough for Jaune, he marks the way and then waits. A river means that animals come here to drink water and that means food. And he is not disappointed, a deer comes nearby, he is about to shot at it when something startles it, the deer runs away, Jaune scowls.

‘Well… at least Weiss will not complain about me killing a cute deer.’ he chuckles.

He then hears what startled the deer. Something is fighting nearby. He approaches cautiously and sees a big, brown bear fighting a white wolf. But there is something strange, a wolf normally runs around when fighting a bigger opponent in order to tire and confuse it, this one is standing in place, growling and biting at the bear. It didn’t take long for the bear to hit a powerful blow on the wolf, throwing it a few feet back. The bear have his back turned to Jaune.

‘Bear meat is not so bad.’

It only takes one hit of Crocea Mors on the bear neck to sever it’s spine.

“Well… dinner is served.” he says before hearing a whining sound. He looks near the wolf’s body. “I see… That’s what it was all about.”

________________________________________________________________________________

Weiss is sleeping inside the tent while waiting for Jaune’s return, when she hears a commotion outside.

“Wohoo! Fearless Leader got us dinner.” she hears the loud voice of Nora.

She raises from under the covers.

“Ah! You are awake Lady Whisper.” she hears the voice of Velvet.

“What is all that noise?”

“Master Jaune returned from the hunt.” the rabbit faunus answers her.

As soon as she says that, Jaune enters the tent carrying something.

“Master Jaune, welcome back.” greets Velvet.

“Welcome back, Jaune.” Weiss raises from the bed.

“Thanks Weiss. Velvet too.”

Then both girls hear a whining sound coming from the bundle Jaune was carrying.

“What is that?” Weiss asks curious and Jaune grins at her.

He gives her the bundle that moves a little before uncovering it.

“Awwww…” Weiss heart melts seeing the white wolf puppy in her arms.

Velvet looks a little afraid of the cute (for now) creature.

“I-It’s a wolf…” she stammers a little.

“It’s just a puppy, Velvet.” Jaune looks confused at her, then realizes what the problem is. “It’s the rabbit instincts?”

“Y-Yes. I know it’s silly… I just need some time.”

“Well… it took a while for you to get close to Neige. Why don’t you try to pet it.”

Reluctantly, Velvet extends her hand and pets the wolf head, the little wolf turns his head and licks Velvet hand. Jaune notices the conflicted look on Velvet face.

“What is wrong?”

“I know it’s just being friendly… but another side of me is telling me that he is just having a taste before he eats me.”

Jaune and Weiss chuckle when she says that.

“From where did this little one come from?” Weiss then narrows her eyes at Jaune. “You didn’t kill his mother did you?”

“I didn’t, it was bear. The bear we will be eating for dinner tonight in fact. She died protecting her pup, I buried her and took the little one with me. Neige could use a furry friend back home.”

Weiss nods and hugs the puppy to her chest.

________________________________________________________________________________

In the Schnee house in Argus.

Willow and Whitley are having dinner when the door breaks, a black haired girl with golden eyes, wearing a red dress and holding two swords comes inside followed by a man with grey hair and a green haired girl. Klein gets in front of them.

“Who are you? What do you want?”

“Empress Willow, Prince Whitley.” the girl bows ignoring Klein. “At the command of Emperor Jacques I came to retrieve you. I must say it was quite a ordeal to find you.”

“Insolent.” Willlow growls at her. “We are not going anywhere with you.”

Cinder grins.

“I was hoping you would resist.” she advances towards Willow.

“I hope the same from you.” comes a voice from behind them all.

Looking behind her, Cinder sees a tall blonde haired woman with green eyes, she wears an armor and is holding a spear and a shield, with her are at least five guards.

‘The Queen of Vale. If I take the boy hostage I can still-' as she turns again, she almost have a heart attack. Beside Willow and Whitley is large knight wearing black armor.

“From where the hell did that guy come from?” Mercury looks around nervously.

“The Black Knight of Vale. He is the one that attacked our hideout in Vale. We must leave… Emerald!”

“On it.” Emerald creates an illusion of them disappearing as they take the distraction to leave the house.

Joan looks around surprised.

“What? Where did they go?”

“A semblance.” the black knight says. “They have escaped.”

“Queen Joan, thank you.” Willow aproaches. “You too, Sir…”

“They call me The Black Knight.”

“My! That won’t do.” Willow smiles at him. “I would like a name.”

“Your Highness, I can’t just-” the Black Knight seems embarrassed at the look Willow is giving him.

“Come on, Dad.” Joan smirks at him. “You are not fooling anyone. Even Jaune knows it’s you.”

“HE DOES?” The Black Knight removes his helmet, a blonde haired man with white streaks of hair, a thick beard and blue eyes is under it. “Well… That’s embarrassing. Does Blanche and Noir know as well?”

“Jaune must have told them. I mean… didn’t you find it strange that they have warmed up to you really fast.”

“That… makes sense…” he looks at Willow. “My name is Nicholas Arc, Your Highness. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

Willow grins.

“It could be.” she licks her lips.

Nicholas blushes at the look Willow is giving him. Joan grins and Whitley looks horrified.

“Mother?”

“What? I will never go back to your father and I have a full live ahead of myself.”

________________________________________________________________________________

From the mountain where their camp is, Weiss can see the top of the Schnee Castle tower in the distance.

“I am back, Jacques.” she glares at it. “And you don’t even know what’s coming for you. The suffering you caused will be returned ten fold to you.”

She giggles as she feels the cold nose of the wolf pup on her cheek.

“It’s cold, right?” she kisses the head of the puppy. “Let’s go back inside.”

Entering the tent, she sees Jaune still sleeping and smiles at her her betrothed. Putting the puppy on the ground, the little creature hurries to snuggle in a blacked on the floor. Weiss approaches the bed and sees Jaune’s locket on the small table beside the bed. Curious she opens it seeing inside a lock of white hair.

‘My hair? When did he get it?’ she smiles at it. ‘He keeps a part of me with him all the time.’

“You Dunce.” she smiles lovingly at him, sitting on the bed. “For how long are you going to pretend that you are sleeping?”

He smiles and reaches up caressing her cheek.

“Can’t sleep now that we are close to your home?”

“I’m more calm then I should be. I just want to end this and finally have peace.”

Jaune sits her on his lap.

“After we are done here. We can get married and live wherever you want and have as many children you want.”

“I want that, all of that.” she whispers, before kissing him.