[RWBY] RWBY Shorts

[ThunderBasilisk]

LoL I see that sneaky Mr Incredible reference!

 

[Gur40]

Stolen From Tumblr
pectralpixelsredone

Its funny Cinder created her own worst enemy by killing his GF and giving him powers by trying to kill his second gf, and then tossing him in a wonderland dimension that made him strong AND skilled

howlingday

Even more hilarious is how only one of these was an actual personal attack against him. Killing Pyrrha was only to get the rest of the Fall Maiden's powers. Leaving him to fall into the Ever After was all just something that happened; he might as well have died to her.

Her trying to kill Weiss was the closest she made it to being personal, and that was just having fun for her, since she then ditched him to go to the Spring Maiden Vault.

To Cinder, Ruby is her nemesis because... she got caught in the Silver Eye AOE and got scolded by Salem for it. That's it. Jaune is literally less than nothing to her, and it's gonna come back to bite her in the ass later.

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JNPR Helping Team RWBY

Spoiler: Joint Mission

lord_general88 • 23h ago
Ruby: Sorry about this Jaune.

Jaune: Don't worry Crater face. We'll get you back to Beacon.

Pyrrha: You alright Weiss?

Weiss: F-fine. Totally not having a gay panic

Blake: Hands above the waist Ren.

Ren: Nora would kill us both if I tried anything.

Nora: Come on Yangy!

Yang: Ow. Ow. Ow. Please stop dragging me!

Skeletonparty101 • 23h ago
Big brother carry

Bridal style carry

Sack of potatoes carry

Rag doll carry

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Somehow Jaune is Normal Mode

Spoiler: Tanks

Though As An Adult....

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RWBY Comic Timeline

Spoiler: Blake WHY?

Stolen From Tumblr
razorblade180

Ruby: Oh Adam of the bandits, grant me your insane wisdom!

Adam: There are two types of men. Those who will die for you, and those who will kill for you. For the love of god, know which one you want because the script will flip if things don't work out.

Jaune: I fear he might be onto something.

Blake: Hey, so where was my warning about this?

Adam: Don't you read trashy romance novels?

Blake:…

Weiss: Nobody say anything else. He can't be right three times in a day.

Yang: I'm too busy rationalizing that I know exactly which one my dad is. We gotta get that man a girlfriend. Weiss, give me your mother's number.

Weiss: That's- y'know… I don't hate that actually.

 

[AndrewJTalon]

The Schnee mansion's grand foyer felt colder than Atlas winter that night.

Winter Schnee stood before her father's desk in the study, uniform crisp, posture flawless—even as Jacques Gele's words cut deeper than any blade.

"You are no longer a Schnee," he said, voice like frostbite. "You defy me at every turn—enlisting in the military, rejecting the company's future. Leave this house. You are disowned."

Willow sat silent in the corner, glass in hand, eyes distant. Whitley and Weiss weren't present—spared this, at least.

Winter's chin lifted. "If that's your decision, Father, I accept it."

She turned on her heel, strides measured, refusing to let him see the tremor in her hands.

Fafnir stood guard outside the study doors—seven feet of shadowed menace, wings folded like a cloak, red eyes glowing faintly in the dim light. He didn't move as she passed, but his gaze followed her.

Winter paused at the top of the grand staircase, duffel bag slung over one shoulder—the few belongings she'd packed in defiance. She looked back at him.

"You're letting me go," she said quietly. "Just like that."

Fafnir's masked face was unreadable. "You're not a prisoner."

She descended a few steps, then stopped, turning to face him fully.

"You're a warrior, Fafnir. I've seen it—felt it—in every training session you risked giving me. You have honor. Code. Why do you continue to serve him? He's a corrupt monster who treats his own blood like assets to discard."

Fafnir was silent for a long moment. When he spoke, his voice was low, gravel over steel.

"I owe him my life. More than once. He pulled me from the gutter, gave me purpose when my clan was ash. Paid for these—" he flexed his cybernetic claw, metal gleaming—"when assassins left me in pieces. Debts like that don't fade."

Winter's eyes narrowed. "And I owe him nothing. I'm his daughter, not his debtor."

"You owe him your life too," Fafnir said bluntly. "The privilege you were born into. The safety these walls gave you. But you're right—you're not his daughter anymore."

He stepped closer, towering over her, but there was no threat in it—only a strange, solemn weight.

"Go," he said. "Become strong. Stronger than him. Stronger than the chains he thinks he forged."

Winter searched his scarred, masked face for mockery and found none.

"You truly mean that."

"I do."

She exhaled slowly, the anger and hurt shifting into something fiercer—resolve.

"I will," she said. "I'll become the soldier he never wanted. The protector he couldn't buy."

Fafnir inclined his head—a rare gesture of respect.

"Then go, Winter Schnee-no-more. And don't look back."

She did exactly that—walked down the stairs, through the doors, into the Atlas night without hesitation.

But his words burned in her chest like a glyph she'd never forget.

Become strong.

She would.

For herself.

And someday, perhaps, strong enough to face even the dragon who'd let her go.

 

[ThunderBasilisk]

Huh good on Fafnir for not being one dimensional

 

[AndrewJTalon]

Huh good on Fafnir for not being one dimensional

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Weiss and the Schnee family drama was, like almost everything else, poorly handled and badly done in the show. Fafnir exists to facilitate better drama, give some complexity and nuance, and serve as a physical fighter for an actual fight involving Jacques. So I do give him enough character to be interesting but his primary role is to facilitate Weiss and the other Schnees' stories. So I'm glad people like him.

 

[digcat]

AndrewJTalon i remember someone telling you about a reaction fic that had a chapter about the Step-Sibling War. I don't know if they ever linked it. https://www.wattpad.com/story/380530035-yet-another-rwby-reaction-fic it's not good at all but if you want to see it here you go.

 

[AndrewJTalon]

AndrewJTalon i remember someone telling you about a reaction fic that had a chapter about the Step-Sibling War. I don't know if they ever linked it. https://www.wattpad.com/story/380530035-yet-another-rwby-reaction-fic it's not good at all but if you want to see it here you go.

Click to shrink...

It's not very good, but thanks.

 

[zMADLAXz]

It's not very good, but thanks.

Click to shrink...

One short coming of almost 99% of reaction fics is that the one writing the fic and the one writing the reaction to it often have very different understanding of characters.

So you have the characters in the fic acting one way and characters in the other acting a different way, and then you try to crossbreed them together and it gives out something either an abomination or a flanderised character

 

[AndrewJTalon]

Knightly/Military Orders of the Church of the Tablebreaker in Remnant

Much like medieval knightly orders on Earth, the Church of the Tablebreaker maintains several semi-military orders across Remnant. These Orders function as respected, semi-autonomous religious-military-charitable institutions with a strong presence in humanitarian aid, Grimm response, Dust-infused medical care, and community defense. The Order of Saint Edmund is especially known for its work in urban hospitals, mobile trauma response teams, refugee/Faunus aid programs, and rapid-deployment "Hospitaller Companies" that support Huntsmen/Huntresses during major Grimm incursions. Below is a typical organizational chart for one such order: The Order of Saint Edmund.

Organizational Chart — Order of Saint Edmund (Modern Era)

Grand Master of the Order
(sovereign religious and executive head of the entire Order worldwide; elected for life or until resignation/incapacity; ultimate authority over doctrine, vows, and major policy)
Grand Seneschal
(chief operating officer and second-in-command; oversees day-to-day administration, legal affairs, and coordination between global and local structures)
Grand Marshal
(supreme commander of all armed and paramilitary forces of the Order; responsible for training standards, deployment doctrine, and coordination with Huntsmen guilds and national militaries during Grimm crises)
Grand Almoner / Grand Hospitaller
(head of all charitable, medical, and humanitarian operations; oversees hospitals, mobile clinics, refugee programs, charity initiatives, and medical research & relief)
Sovereign Council / Magistral Council (advisory & governing body)

• Meets regularly under the Grand Master
• Includes the four Grand Officers above + elected Councillors (usually 6–10 senior professed members)

High Central Officers (Aelia Paravel-equivalent staff roles, global but with strong influence on major Sects)

• Procurator General (chief legal counsel and compliance officer)
• Secretary General (handles communications, archives, and international liaison)
• Seneschal of the Magistral Convent (manages the Order's central headquarters and ceremonial life)
• Receiver of the Common Treasury (CFO — global finances, endowments, Dust & resource management)

Regional / Provincial Level — Radian Province Sect
Preceptor / Grand Prior of Radian
(regional superior; appointed or elected leader of the entire Radian Sect; reports directly to the Grand Seneschal and Sovereign Council; combines spiritual, administrative, and operational authority in the region)
Deputy Prior / Seneschal of Radian
(day-to-day manager of the Sect's operations)
Master of Radian Province/Provincial Master
(military / security commander for the Sect; leads all armed response units and liaises with Radian's Huntsman academies and city defense forces)
Almoner / Hospitaller of Radian
(directs all local medical, charitable, and social outreach programs — hospitals, clinics, soup kitchens, Faunus aid centers, orphanages, mobile aid convoys)Commandery / Preceptory Level (individual houses / bases in and around Radian)
Knight Commander / Preceptor
(leader of a specific commandery — e.g., Central Radian Hospital Commandery, Vale Border Relief Commandery, Lower Districts Aid Commandery, etc.)

Nicholas Arc is the Knight Commander of the town of Radian, the capital of Radian Province.

Professed Knights(full-vowed members)

• Elite core
• Have taken solemn perpetual vows
• Serve in leadership, ceremonial, combat, or senior medical roles
• Ranked from Knight Captain to Knight Major.

Knights in Obedience

• Junior professed knights or those still in temporary vows
• Serve as field commanders, trauma surgeons, Grimm-response squad leaders, etc.
• Ranked from Knight Second Lieutenant to Knight First Lieutenant.

Serving Brothers / Knight Sergeants

• Form the backbone of operational units: medics, drivers, engineers, logistics specialists, security details, Dust technicians, field cooks, etc.
• Ranked from Knight to Knight Master Sergeant.

Lay Auxiliaries / Volunteers / Confraters

• Unvowed members and associates
• Include trained paramedics, drivers, counselors, translators, Faunus community liaisons
• Many participate through affiliated programs (similar to St. John Ambulance volunteers)

Chaplains (parallel spiritual structure)

• Ordained priests of the Tablebreaker Church assigned to the Order
• Provide sacraments, spiritual direction, last rites on battlefields, and moral guidance
• Report ultimately to the Grand Master (via the Grand Commander / religious superior), but serve locally under the Preceptor of Radian

 

[Gur40]

Gamer Weiss Failing Up

Spoiler: Part 2

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Ruby and Pyrrha trying seduce Jaune and The Huntsman

Spoiler: 2 girls

Reaper? and Red Huntress if i remember right

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Why Pyrrha Wanted To Be Made Human

Spoiler: Immortal

Staff? EA or Cyborg Lover Fixing this?

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Jaune Banned From BoardGames

Spoiler: MindGames

Who Did He Destroy?

 

[AndrewJTalon]

The Federal Republic of Vale operates as a semi-presidential constitutional republic with strong influences from the Roman Republic (collegial executive, aristocratic senate-like body, popular assemblies via elected lower house), the French Fifth Republic (semi-presidential dual executive with direct presidential election + parliamentary confidence elements), and the United States (bicameral legislature with proportional/popular representation in one chamber, independent judiciary, checks and balances).

This creates a hybrid system emphasizing divided power to prevent tyranny (Roman checks via collegiality and veto), popular legitimacy (French/American direct elections), and federal/sub-national representation (nod to Vale's sub-kingdoms/provinces).

Executive Branch
The executive is dual-headed (semi-presidential style), blending Roman consular collegiality with French Fifth Republic dynamics.

• Chancellor(Head of State / Chief Executive, akin to French President + Roman Consul)
  • Elected by direct popular vote (nationwide, possibly two-round majority system like France to ensure broad support).
  • Term: 5–7 years (renewable once, to avoid short-termism; French influence with Roman annual limits softened for stability).
  • Primary responsibilities: Foreign policy, defense/national security (Ministry of War/State), diplomacy, emergency powers (limited, like French Article 16), commander-in-chief of armed forces.
  • Appoints/dismisses the Chairman/Chairwoman (with legislative constraints).
  • Can dissolve the Low Council (like French president dissolving National Assembly) under specific conditions (e.g., after consulting Speakers and High Council President).
  • Ceremonial roles: Represents Vale internationally, signs/enacts laws (with veto possible, overridden by legislature supermajority), grants pardons.
• Chairman/Chairwoman(Head of Government / akin to French Prime Minister + Roman Consul sharing domestic duties)
  • Elected by the Legislature (joint session of High + Low Council, requiring majority support; akin to parliamentary confidence vote).
  • Term: Tied to legislative confidence (can fall via no-confidence vote from Low Council, forcing resignation or dissolution).
  • Primary responsibilities: Domestic policy, economy, administration (oversees Ministries of Commerce, Interior, Education, Health, etc.).
  • Directs day-to-day government operations and cabinet (Ministers appointed by Chancellor on Chair's recommendation).
  • Responsible to the legislature (can be censured/removed by Low Council majority).
• Collegiality & Checks (Roman influence): Chancellor and Chair share executive power; each can veto the other's major decisions in overlapping areas (e.g., war declaration needs both). In cohabitation (different parties/factions), power tilts toward the directly elected Chancellor (French style).
• Cabinet/Ministries: Appointed by Chancellor on Chair's proposal. Key ones include Ministry of War (defense), Ministry of State (foreign affairs), Ministry of Commerce (trade/economy), etc. Ozpin's role as Head of Huntsmen fits as a high-level agency head/advisor (like a cabinet-level position reporting to both executives).

Legislative Branch
Bicameral parliament (strong Roman Senate + modern bicameralism like US/France).

• High Council(Upper House / akin to Roman Senate + French Senate + US Senate)
  • Represents sub-kingdoms/provinces (federal element).
  • Members (Councilors) appointed by sub-kingdom governments (nobility-descended families, governors, or hereditary seats with modern confirmation).
  • Smaller size (e.g., 2–3 per sub-kingdom).
  • Longer terms (8–10 years, staggered) for stability.
  • Powers: Confirms high appointments (e.g., Supreme Court judges, some ministers), ratifies treaties, tries impeachments, equal say on constitutional amendments.
  • Presided over by Speaker of the High Council (elected by members; leads coalitions/parties in upper house).
• Low Council(Lower House / akin to US House + French National Assembly + Roman tribal/centuriate assemblies)
  • Directly elected by popular vote (proportional representation from sub-kingdoms, ensuring population-based seats).
  • Larger size, shorter terms (4–5 years).
  • Primary initiator of legislation, budget/tax bills, no-confidence votes against Chair.
  • Presided over by Speaker of the Low Council (e.g., Rufus Winchester; elected by members, powerful coalition leader).
• Joint Powers: Both houses must pass identical bills (conference committees resolve differences). Legislation can originate in either (but money bills start in Low). Chair needs Low Council confidence.

Judicial Branch
Independent, US-style with Roman/French touches.

• Supreme Court of Vale(top court)
  • 9 justices (odd number avoids ties; US influence).
  • Appointed by Chancellor (nominated) + confirmed by High Council (advice/consent).
  • Lifetime tenure for independence.
  • Final interpreter of Valean Constitution; judicial review of laws/executive actions.
• Lower Courts: Hierarchy of appellate, district, and specialized courts (e.g., administrative, military).
  • Judges appointed by executive (Chancellor/Chair) or legislature, with varying terms/confirmation.
• Checks: Can declare laws unconstitutional; impeachment possible for misconduct (by legislature).

Additional Modern/Federal Touches

• Sub-kingdoms/Provinces: Retain significant autonomy (like French regions or US states), with own legislatures/governors feeding into High Council.
• Constitution: Rigid amendment process (supermajority in both houses + referendum, French style).
• Checks & Balances: Chancellor dissolves Low Council → new elections; legislature removes Chair; judiciary checks both; Roman-style vetoes/collegiality in executive.
• Elections: Mix direct (Chancellor, Low Council) + indirect (High Council, Chair).

 

[AndrewJTalon]

The Mistralian Confederation (formally the Confederated Provinces of Mistral, or simply Mistral) is a loose confederation of semi-autonomous provinces/sub-kingdoms in Anima, structured as a nominal republic with heavy warlord-era Chinese influences (1916–1928 Beiyang/Nanjing period). It features a weak, fragmented central government in the capital (Mistral, also once called Fengshi in Liu Bei Province), overshadowed by three dominant ideological/military factions (Green, Red, Yellow Dragons) that control provinces, armies, syndicates, and resources. The system is republican in name (post-overthrow of the Utopianist Regime in the Great War), but in practice is a multi-clique warlord confederation with constant intrigue, shifting alliances, assassinations, and proxy conflicts.

Mistral is a federation in theory but functions as a decentralized patchwork where provinces retain near-sovereign control over taxes, armies, justice, and foreign ties. Sub-kingdoms like the Hellenic Confederation, Fuujin, Taejo, Pandu, and Rostram, pay nominal tribute or send delegates but ignore central edicts.

Religious/cultural elements: Predominantly Pathist, with the holy Valley of Peace (near Ren/Nora's village, home to the Dragon Sage) as supreme spiritual site. Aelia Paravel in Narn sub-kingdom is an autonomous holy city-state for the Tablebreaker Church, often neutral or mediating but plays host to Valean and Atlasian military bases for protection.

Executive Branch – Nominal & Weak Central Authority
President / Grand Custodian (Head of State – akin to Beiyang/Nanjing-era President)

• Elected (or "acclaimed") by the National Assembly in theory, but in practice installed/removed by whichever faction/clique holds the capital or most military leverage.
• Term: 5–7 years nominally, but often shortened by coups, "retirements," or assassinations.
• Powers: Ceremonial (signs laws, receives foreign envoys, appoints nominal ministers), commander-in-chief on paper, but real military command rests with provincial warlords/faction leaders.
• Often a figurehead from a compromise faction (e.g., a neutral elder, minor noble, or rotating puppet). Weak presidency reflects post-revolution rejection of monarchy but failure to build strong republican institutions.

Premier / Grand Chancellor (Head of Government – akin to Premier in Nationalist era)

• Appointed by President with Assembly "approval," but chosen by dominant faction/clique controlling the capital.
• Directs nominal cabinet, but ministries are starved of funds and loyalty; real power in provincial governors/warlords.
• Handles day-to-day administration when factions agree (rarely).

Cabinet / Five Yuan System (Based on early ROC, but dysfunctional)

• Nominal ministries (War, Foreign Affairs, Interior, Finance, Justice, etc.).
• Head of Huntsmen – Semi-independent academy head, controls elite Huntsmen units but often faction-aligned or neutral. (Leonardo Lionheart)
• Real executive power lies with faction leaders (Lady Jia Xu for Green, Kael Draven for Red, Khan Rostam IV for Yellow), who command private armies, control provinces, and run parallel "governments."

Legislative Branch – Fragmented & Symbolic
National Assembly (Bicameral, weak central parliament)

• Upper House: Council of Provinces / Dragon Council
  • Delegates from each province/sub-kingdom (2–4 per major province, 1 from minor/sub-kingdoms like Hellenic Confederation, Fuujin).
  • Appointed by provincial governors/warlords or faction bosses.
  • Focus: Ratifies treaties, constitutional changes, symbolic unity. Often boycotted or deadlocked by faction vetoes.
• Lower House: People's Chamber / Representatives' Yuan
  • "Elected" (manipulated) from districts, proportional-ish but rigged by local warlords/syndicates.
  • Initiates laws/budgets nominally, but rarely functions without faction consensus.

Assembly meets irregularly in capital; laws unenforceable outside faction territories. Real "legislation" happens via faction pacts, syndicate deals, or warlord edicts.

Judicial Branch – Decentralized & Patronage-Based
Supreme Tribunal of Mistral

• Nominal highest court in capital, interprets "Confederation Charter".
• Justices appointed by President/Assembly, but loyalty to factions; rulings ignored if inconvenient.

Lower Courts

• Provincial/high courts controlled by local warlords/governors; justice often arbitrary or syndicate-influenced.

Key Features & Dynamics

• Three Dragon Factions as De Facto Power Blocs
  • Green Dragon (Traditionalist/Restorationist) – Dominant in Liu Bei & Guan Yu Provinces; controls ancient arts, elite traditional warriors, cultural institutions. Want to restore the Emperor to the Jade Throne to create unity. Ties with Atlas due to both favoring strong central government and distrust of Vale.
  • Red Dragon (Meritocratic/Revolutionary) – Strong in Zhang Fei & Zhou Yu; tech innovators, Faunus support, Hellenic/Pandu/Valean ties.
  • Yellow Dragon (Expansionist/Authoritarian) – Rules Cao Cao & eastern deserts; Mughal cavalry, syndicates, aggressive raids.
• Syndicates / Organized Crime – Parallel power (like triads in 1920s China); fund factions, smuggle Dust, assassinate rivals, control black markets.
• Sub-Kingdom Autonomy – Hellenic Confederation (Argus) runs Greek-style city-state democracy, leans Vale/Atlas. Fuujin self-governs (akin to modern Japan). Taejo/Pandu/Rostram independent, nominal vassals at best.
• Weak Central Government – Capital under rotating faction occupation; "national" army tiny/fragmented; Huntsmen academies semi-autonomous/neutral-ish.
• Cultural/Religious Overlay – Pathist monasteries mediate disputes; Valley of Peace as pilgrimage site for unity appeals; Tablebreaker Church in Aelia Paravel influences morals/diplomacy.

In short, as Ozpin once said, you could not pay me enough to get into Mistralian politics.

 

[CountvonBarnOwl]

Oh wait, that won't do anything because it is RWBY, a show known for adding Guns to everything and still being unable to nail down Bullet physics.

Click to shrink...

CRWBY are irrationally afraid and comically ignorant about the workings of guns, so that doesn't come as a shock.

Also guys, GREAT NEWS!

https://rwby.fandom.com/wiki/Arrastra_Skye

Apparently using Plant Dust to heal and restore others' Aura is CANON to RWBY, via the Semblance of this... Severely underwhelming character in RWBY: The Grimm Campaign wherein the cast of RWBY played through a RWBY-themed DnD campaign.

Plant Dust is canon and apparently, so is this campaign (somehow).

https://rwby.fandom.com/wiki/Dust#Plant

So Healing Dust is actually a thing. Or can easily be a thing.

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Well, Plant Dust's mechanism of action has to do something with the creation of organic material, cells, and glucose (the basal unit of metabolizable organic energy) so that tracks…

How i see the idea that after culling the Grimm and Defeating Salem, Humanity Fucks Up The Peace RWBY and JNPR fought for

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Oh, this is humanity we're talking about, that's inevitable.

Lifetime tenure or long non-renewable terms (e.g., 15–20 years) for independence.

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Would anybody, heh heh, object if I went on a ramble on this point? No? Okay.

Life tenure will get you were you need better in this case. The highest court in the country should be stable and independent (and legally consistent). Appointing a judge to it is the final move, with the only manners of exit being death or resignation. The moment you grant the political factions within a nation the ability to put on their calendars, in advance, the exit of a particular judge, you give them the ability to plan both for, and around, that judge. If you want the judiciary to remain independent, politically neutral (and consistent, at least as it can be, in its interpretation of the meaning of the letter of the law) it is best to prevent the political partisans and factioneers from being forewarned or forearmed as to the disposition of the court.

Now, much has been made, in certain places in recent years, of the idea of instilling judicial term limits - nominally to keep the judges checked. But any such hypothetical maneuvers would most likely backfire. Again, if you know in advance when the judge leaves, you can plan ahead. The court of final resort and highest authority is no longer the final move in the murky intermixture of politics and law - and yes, those to things are very separable. No matter how well thought out, or how well meaning a plan to limit judicial caprice with term limits is, the result will always be a court more partisan and more mercurial than the alternative. Especially once you have to rely on overruling precedent. Overruling a case, in countries with exceedingly stable judiciaries, is not something done lightly, and only when the political will is so pervasive in the rest of the government so as to not compel judicial legislation, but to (not so) silently mandate that the letter of the law that said case precedent rested on be read in a new and contrary light.

Therefore, to sum, no matter how unduly politicized a highest court may appear to be with the absence of term limits, this is just part and parcel of the fact that the people whose job it is to interpret the letter of the law have their own opinions understandings, and their own beliefs and worldviews that shape those opinions and understandings. In short, people may not think it is the best, and I, rationally, understand that concern. But sometimes the best option that we have has an ugly side of its own.

 

[AndrewJTalon]

Therefore, to sum, no matter how unduly politicized a highest court may appear to be with the absence of term limits, this is just part and parcel of the fact that the people whose job it is to interpret the letter of the law have their own opinions understandings, and their own beliefs and worldviews that shape those opinions and understandings. In short, people may not think it is the best, and I, rationally, understand that concern. But sometimes the best option that we have has an ugly side of its own.

Click to shrink...

Fair enough. I had wanted to do something a little different, but honestly? You're right, lifetime appointments are better for judicial independence.

And Mistral's government is a HILARIOUS shit show.

 

[AndrewJTalon]

Vacuo Government Structure: The Sultanate of Vacuo
The Sultanate of Vacuo (officially the United Sultanate of Vacuo) is a highly decentralized federal monarchy that exists more on paper than in practice. Founded roughly 800 years ago by Malik the Sunderer, who united the fractured post-Xolotl sub-kingdoms under a single banner, Vacuo was a strong, centralized state blending Tablebreaker faith, revolutionary zeal, and pragmatic tribal governance. Today, it is a fragile confederation of semi-independent sub-kingdoms, city-states, nomadic tribes, and oasis strongholds held together by a weak central authority, constant negotiation, and the looming threat of Grimm incursions. The capital is in Vacuo City, also known as Shadovar.

Vacuo's government is deliberately loose—designed to accommodate the continent's harsh desert environment, nomadic lifestyles, history of warfare, and deeply ingrained distrust of centralized power (a direct reaction to the break up of the kingdom post the end of Malik the Sunderer's bloodline). The result is a system that functions through consensus, patronage, personal loyalty, and survival pragmatism rather than rigid law. Wars between tribes and even sub-kingdoms are common.

Executive Branch – The Sultan and the Grand Council
Sultan / Sultana (Head of State and nominal supreme authority)

• Hereditary monarch from Malik the Sunderer's bloodline (currently contested as the line of Sultans is broken-Held by the Mudif (A hereditary Regent Position).
• Symbolic and spiritual leader; officially commander-in-chief and protector of the Tablebreaker faith in Vacuo.
• Powers:
  • Declares national emergencies (rarely heeded outside the capital).
  • Appoints the Grand Vizier (head of government).
  • Mediates disputes between sub-kingdoms (success varies wildly).
  • Grants pardons and titles, appoints judges.
• In practice: Often a figurehead or puppet of the strongest coalition of sub-kingdoms/tribes at any given time. Real power lies with regional rulers.

Grand Vizier (Head of Government)

• Appointed by the Sultan/Mudif with approval of the Grand Council.
• Runs the day-to-day administration in the capital (Shadovar, built around Malik's oasis).
• Oversees the few functioning central ministries: Water Rights, Grimm Defense Coordination, Trade Routes, Foreign Relations, Religious Affairs (Tablebreaker oversight), and others.
• Effectiveness depends entirely on personal alliances and bribes—most Viziers survive by playing sub-kingdoms against each other.

Legislative / Deliberative Branch – The Grand Council
Grand Council (A massive, unwieldy assembly)

• Composed of representatives from every major sub-kingdom, city-state, nomadic tribal confederation, and oasis stronghold.
• Key permanent members (with largest voting blocs):
  • Hispania (coastal republic; Valean-influenced, mixed population; strong navy and army, anti-cult patrols)
  • Chaac (jungle/mountain city-states; Maya-inspired; independent, ritualistic)
  • Anansi (highland tribal federation; Ethiopian analogue; warrior culture, storytelling tradition)
  • Lusitania (western coastal enclaves; Portuguese analogue; trade and casino-focused, mercantile)
  • Osiris Remnant (ancient desert heartland; Egyptian successor state; scholarly, deeply religious)
  • Nomadic Tribes (rotating delegates from major clans; survivalist, fiercely autonomous)
• Meets irregularly in Shadovar during the brief "cool season" or in emergencies.
• Powers:
  • Approves the Grand Vizier.
  • Declares war (almost never used—sub-kingdoms fight their own wars).
  • Sets trade route tolls and water-sharing agreements (the only laws consistently enforced).
  • Can depose the Sultan or Mudij in extreme cases (has happened twice in history).
  • Approves viziers who oversee various functions across Vacuo, from judges to tax collection.
• In practice: A chaotic bazaar of deal-making, threats, and walkouts. Decisions require near-unanimous consensus among major blocs, making decisive action rare.

Judicial / Religious Authority
Grand Kenbet

• The Grand Kenbet is a council of elders appointed as judges, supervised by viziers appointed by the Grand Assembly. They consist of 352 Elder Judges from across Vacuo, with 9 selected for lifetime appointments on the High Court by the Grand Vizier and Mudij/Sultan as the ultimate authority and interpreter of the laws. While they carry the authority of the Sultan/Mudij, corruption is common and rulings are often only as strong as the judges' support in the area of the ruling.
• Answers petitions from all citizens.

Tablebreaker Ecclesiarchy (Parallel power structure)

• The Tablebreaker Faith has immense influence.
• High Paladin and Council of Archpriests act as a de facto supreme court for many moral/religious crimes.
• Paladins and Warrior Nuns operate semi-independently, hunting Grimm cults, Xolotl revivalists, and raiders. They are one of the few forces that can cross sub-kingdom borders with impunity.
• Many sub-kingdoms defer to Church courts in cases involving heresy, Grimm summoning, or blood rituals rather than the often corrupt Kenbet.

Sub-Kingdoms & Regional Power
Real power rests with the sub-kingdoms and tribal confederations:

• Hispania – Most organized; elected governors, strong republican institutions, professional military. Leads anti-cult operations in former Xolotl territories. Deeply suspicious of centralized power but pragmatic in alliances.
• Chaac – Loose alliance of city-states; priest-kings rule individually. Strong warrior tradition, frequent internal wars.
• Anansi – Tribal federation; leadership rotates among great storytellers/warchiefs. Highly mobile, excellent scouts.
• Lusitania – Merchant republic; wealthy coastal cities, powerful fleets. Often mediates trade disputes.
• Osiris Remnant – Scholarly desert kingdom; controls ancient libraries and ruins. Religious conservatives.
• Nomadic Tribes – Dozens of clans; owe loyalty only when it suits them. Control vast desert routes.

Key Structural Weaknesses (Why Vacuo is "Even Worse")

• No standing national army – Each sub-kingdom/tribe maintains its own forces. Defense against major Grimm swarms relies on ad-hoc coalitions and Huntsmen.
• Water and resource control – The ultimate currency. Whoever controls oases and aquifers holds real power.
• Xolotl Legacy – Underground cults in Hispania and the northwest jungles actively work to undermine stability. Ruins attract Salem's agents and treasure hunters.
• Foreign influence – Vale and Mistral maintain cultural ties (and lingering resentment in some sub-kingdoms, while others have better relationships). Atlas has quiet trade deals (Dust for security tech) but little direct involvement. SDC exploits the chaos for cheap labor and artifact smuggling.
• Grimm attraction – Negative emotions from constant infighting draw endless hordes, forcing even rivals to cooperate temporarily.

 

[Gur40]

Would Beacon Have A Pajama Day

Spoiler: Class Fun

would be fun

---

Jaune Growth Verse Most Huntsmen

Spoiler: OP As HELL

Jaune surpassed most Signal Grads before Vytal and hits Huntsmen levels during the trip to Haven and Atlas leading to him hitting the top tiers and fighting against Ironwood! Then EA happened and his literally got hyperbolic time chamber and has infinite Aura/Stamina

And Then We Have His Accidental Rizz

Spoiler: Kindness

Well when he's not being a tryhard or revengeful

Spoiler: RNJR

Jaune Really Wanted To Kill Cinder

Stolen From Tumblr

Spoiler: All I Want

howi99

Happily Ever After~!

Cinder: *chuckle* My dear Jaune Arc... After all this time, *turn around to face him* you finally came back to take your revenge—

Jaune: *covered in blood and gore, throwing Tyrian's disemboweled body to the ground* His last words were pleas for a quick death... *Make his aura shine faintly, smiling* A shame we didn't share the same definition of quick~.

Cinder: *Clearly horrified* ... W-what—

Jaune: You murdered my friends, destroyed Atlas and Vale... *slick his hair back* Aaaah~ And you forced me to kill an innocent girl for the greater good. For better or for worse, you are the one person i hate the most, Cinder~

Cinder: *readying herself* I won't be as easy to kill—

Jaune: *cutting her off* You think i'll kill you? Eh... Eheheh.... Ah ah ah ah... AH AH AH AH AH AH AH AH AH!

Jaune: *take a deep breath* Oh Cinder, don't be silly! *Step on the corps head, crushing it under his boot as his smile grew ever more twisted* Why would i want to kill you? After all.... *Chuckle* You must suffer as much as i have...

And i suffered an ever after amount of time~!

---

if instead of V1 they did kid Ruby that would have been heartbreaking

Spoiler: meeting past

The Hound Was a NEW prototype by Salem By Ruby Doesn't know that

Spoiler: Nightmare

The Hound Was Salem Trying To 'Recreate' What Was Done By Accident On Purpose

---

If Pyrrha dad was a huntsmen or alive

Spoiler: Vengeance or Justice

A Father Would Never Stop

---

Salem Is A Monster

Spoiler: Why he left

 

[AndrewJTalon]

You know, flying monkeys are pretty freaky. And the flying Beringels are... Kind of scary.



But you know what would be really scary? Grimm based on the Wheelers.




View: https://youtu.be/WM0RFE3QGAU?si=H8XckmDGR8dwM1Wl

 

[NightDranzer]

So someone on reddit modified a picture of The Black Knight from Fire Emblem with Jaune's colors and.....

Spoiler

......It's beautiful. The Armor, Ruby's Cloak, Pyrrha's Sash, Reforged Crocea Mors Blade......everything.

 

[TheFabulousCustodes]

So someone on reddit modified a picture of The Black Knight from Fire Emblem with Jaune's colors and.....

Spoiler

......It's beautiful. The Armor, Ruby's Cloak, Pyrrha's Sash, Reforged Crocea Mors Blade......everything.

Click to shrink...

Great armor, although it does kind of remind me of Skeleton Knight in Another World.

 

[ThunderBasilisk]

But you know what would be really scary? Grimm based on the Wheelers.

Click to shrink...

Use off road tires and I'm sold. Otherwise it's just hilarious

 

[John Jackson]

I return from my travels with new knowledge and anxiety.

Also a pretty cool idea that'll be expanded over time:

Promethean power armor

The concept of powered suits of armor has existed for hundreds of years in the minds of the peoples of Remnant. From the Steam Jannisaries of Vacuo's golden age to the Dust Spearmen of Mistrali legend, the idea of a suit of armor that combines impervious protection and strength enhancement beyond what aura and semblances could provide has been the goal - and downfall - of many scholars and alchemists.

It was the secretive Cult of Prometheus (then known as the Brotherhood of the Flamebearer) who successfully created the first practical suit of Power Armor. These early models mixed the alchemical body enhancements the Cult was known for with - for its time - advanced steam technology and the very first use of artificially created electricity, known as the Dynamo Heart.

Early suits
The first few attempts were awkward and ungainly, even if their massive bulk allowed the Cult's warriors to challenge the largest of Grimm on often equal footing. Nonetheless the Cult's secretive nature and general persecution meant that most kingdoms that found out such warriors were operating in their lands would hunt them down and spare nothing until the "Metal Monster" was slain and melted into scrap.

Great War era
When the Great War broke out, all four kingdoms had Promethian sects within their borders. Only Mistral, however, sought out these cells in the early days of the conflict, to help them develop weapons for the war effort. From this partnership came the first, and most horrifying, offshoot of the Promethean power armor: the Battlemech.
The first 'mechs were very similar to the power armor they were derived from, utilizing a variety of ways to translate the pilot's movements into the 'mech's.
Another similarity was the use of lesser copies of the, now lost, original Dynamo Heart (that had now become legendary) allowing the suits to mount terrible weapons as powerful as they were cruel.

Modern Suits
Most modern versions of Power Armor exist only because Kingdoms are not allowed to build new Battlemechs, and with the Cult no longer forced to the fringes of society and hunted down for merely existing, many diverse models of Power Armor exist, made by generations of engineers far removed from their Promethean origins, with Atlas at the bleeding edge of technology. And yet, no matter the make or model of armor, they all seem to be missing something.

Known models

Colossus Type: The first type to appear in the historical record, spotted in Old Gallia during the Gothic Invasions. Legend has it that it was made with enchanted stone and the warrior within, remembered as Hildebrandt Mountainborn, could lift entire hills over his head and hurl them at invading warbands.

Qirin Type: Believed to have been first used by the sorceress Táowù in the Record of Xia series of ancient scrolls, which are folk legends retelling of the early ages of the Mistrali Empire. The armor is described as "(...)Flowing like rivers of silk and mist, a single horn of wrought silver sitting like a crown on its head(...)". Historians and Archeologists alike agree that this might be the first time the Dynamo Heart was spotted.

Nephelim type: Also referred to as "Spirit of Fire and Ash", this type's description is passed down exclusively through nomad oral tradition in Vacuan desert clans. The armor is described as "cloaked in flame" and "able to quell the winds and melt the ground". The warrior within is held as a sort of spiritual guide in some clans, while others consider him a portent of doom and punishment.

Crusader Type, Atlas pattern: While the Crusader type has very broad specifications, the 'Atlas pattern' is the most recognizable. Hailing from the Crusader sects of Prometheans from the continent of Solitas, the armor seeks to emulate ancient atlesian knights, in an attempt to demonstrate that their cause is Just and is in the best interest of non-believers.

Click to shrink...

Interesting do what were the inspirations for the various types of power armor and why did they abounded battle mechs with the grim threat still present ? And would the knights of the broken table use any of these models?
Unrelated am I wrong to think that the desert tribes are basically the fremen from Dune?

 

[AndrewJTalon]

Altas, Solitas

- - -

The Schnee manor's sub-basement archive was a tomb of secrets—rows of locked filing cabinets, holographic projectors flickering with decades of ledgers, the air cold, dry and stale. The kind of air that sucked any warmth from your body, from your soul.

Whitley Schnee—sixteen, suit impeccable despite the late hour—sat at the central terminal, fingers flying over keys as he cross-referenced financial discrepancies. Years of quiet observation, of playing the perfect son while cataloging every lie, every bribe, every disappeared worker. It had all come down to this.

Fafnir stood behind him, a silent colossus—wings folded tight, cybernetic mask reflecting the screen's glow. He'd provided the access codes, the hidden drives, the muscle to retrieve what Jacques thought buried.

They'd been at it for hours.

Whitley paused, leaning back in the chair. His voice was quiet, but it cut the silence like ice cracking.

"Why are you doing this?"

Fafnir didn't move. Red eyes fixed on the screen.

"You're risking everything. Father's kill switches—your implants—he could end you with a command. You've served him faithfully for decades. Why betray him now? For me?"

Fafnir's claw flexed once—metal on metal.

"I swore to protect this family," he said finally, voice low thunder. "Not just Jacques. The bloodline. The name."

Whitley turned in the chair, searching the dragon's scarred, masked face.

"You protected us. Stood outside our doors. Trained Winter and Weiss in secret. But you also… did things. For him."

Fafnir's gaze dropped—a rare flicker of something like shame.

"Warden Schnee," he said.

Whitley's breath caught. He'd been young—too young to understand—but the stories lingered. Uncle Warden, the outspoken advocate for miners, found dead in a "Faunus terrorist breach." He'd been told that precursors to the White Fang had done it. They'd kept killing people in the SDC, after all. What was one more?

Yet... The look in Fafnir's eyes...

"You were there," he whispered, "That night."

"I was ordered to let it happen." Fafnir's voice was flat, but the weight behind it crushed the air. "Jacques feared Warden's influence. His voice for the workers. I… arranged the breach. Ensured he died."

The confession hung like smoke.

Whitley stared, throat tight.

"You murdered him," he managed, a low whisper.

"I failed to save him," Fafnir corrected, the distinction raw. "On purpose. Warden was a proud warrior. Strong. Honorable in his way. He saw what Jacques was becoming. I respected him. And I killed him anyway."

Silence stretched, thick and suffocating.

Whitley's hands trembled in his lap. "Then why help me now? Why risk everything to expose the man you killed for? Why...?"

Fafnir stepped closer, towering but not threatening.

"Because you have his determination. Warden's fire, buried under manners and fear. You see the rot. You're willing to cut it out." He shook his head. "You live behind masks, but unlike your sisters, you made it into a weapon. I owe him too much to act directly... But you want to make things... Better. So I try to restore my honor, through your desire for justice."

Whitley's eyes burned—anger, grief, something perilously close to gratitude. He lowered his eyes to hide it.

"No one else sees that in me," he whispered. "Not Mother. Not Winter. Not Weiss. They look at me and see Father's shadow. His puppet."

Fafnir's claw rested—gentle despite the metal—on Whitley's shoulder.

"They're wrong. But you'll have to face them someday. So... prove it."

Whitley looked up, voice cracking. He got himself under control, but only just.

"Thank you. At least… at least you see me. Unlike my sisters."

Fafnir's masked face was unreadable, but his tone carried old, weary certainty.

"Strength isn't just in blades or glyphs, boy. It's in choosing when to strike. You're choosing now. That's the beginning."

He turned back to the terminal, pulling up another encrypted file.

"We have work left to do."

Whitley exhaled shakily, wiping his eyes once—quick, angry—before turning back to the screen.

- - -

Another bit with Fafnir and his relationship with the Schnees. Maybe a bit too emotional, but I wanted to get across that just as Klein was a father figure to Winter and Weiss, Fafnir too had a paternal relationship, of sorts, with Whitley.

 

[AndrewJTalon]

The Hellenic League (also called the Argive League or Western Anima Confederation) is a loose confederation of independent city-states (poleis) clustered along the western coast of Anima, in what is now nominally part of Mistral but functions as a de facto autonomous region. Geographically, it occupies fertile coastal plains, hilly hinterlands, and strategic harbors, making it a major trade hub connecting Vale, Vacuo, and the rest of Anima. Culturally, it blends ancient Hellenic traditions (philosophy, theater, athletics, democratic/oligarchic governance experiments) with heavy Mistralian influences (elegant calligraphy, silk-like textiles, Confucian-style bureaucracy in administration, and dragon motifs in art/architecture from the era of Iksander's conquests).



Historical Background

The League traces its origins to the pre-Tablebreaker era, when the Hellenic poleis were unified under Iksander the Great (the Alexander analogue, a legendary conqueror and distant ancestor of Pyrrha Nikos). Iksander's empire exploded outward from the western coast, conquering much of Anima (including Mistral proper), northern Vale, parts of Vacuo, and even reaching into distant Pandu, Rostram, and Taejo. His campaigns spread Hellenic language, art, philosophy, and military tactics (phalanx formations, hoplite warfare) across continents, while absorbing eastern elements that gave rise to the Greco-Mistralian fusion seen in modern Argus (e.g., columned temples with pagoda roofs, Olympic-style games alongside Mistralian festivals).



After Iksander's death, the empire fragmented rapidly. The western poleis reformed as the Hellenic League to preserve their independence and cultural identity. Later, the Quintalan Empire conquered much of western Anima, imposing centralized administration, roads, aqueducts, and legal codes while allowing local governance and Hellenic customs to persist. The Quintalan collapse left the League semi-independent again, nominally under Mistral but effectively self-ruling due to Mistral's chronic disunity. Over the next several centuries Mistral would at times rule over the Hellenes, then lose their grip while other powers rose and fell. They were briefly ruled over by the tyrannical Witch Queen of Argus, but this dictator was slain in single combat by the legendary Jeanne D'Arc of Radian, who went home and left the poleis to rebuild themselves. The Eastern Sanusian nations that would eventually form Vale competed to rule the poleis for centuries while colonizing and building empires across Remnant, but still the Hellenes would hold onto their cultural identity.



In the modern era (post-Great War), the League maintains nominal allegiance to Mistral (sending tribute delegates to the capital, acknowledging the loose confederation) but operates with near-total autonomy. It hosts an Atlas military base in Argus, enjoys strong trade ties with Vale and a military base in Asterius, and trades with Vacuo, Pandu, Fuujin, Taejo, Rostram and Menagerie. This independence rankles Mistral hardliners (especially Yellow Dragon expansionists), but the League's naval strength and Atlas/Valean backing deter direct interference.



Religiously, the League converted en masse to the Tablebreaker faith centuries ago. Ancient Olympian worship mostly survives only in folklore, festivals, art, literature and music—temples are for the most part now repurposed as churches or museums, though there are some followers of it still.



Major City-States

The League comprises dozens of poleis, but seven form the core council (the "Seven Eyes," nodding to Argus Panoptes). Each is named for a Hellenic monster/mythical figure, reflecting ancient founding myths where heroes tamed or descended from such beings.



Argus (largest, de facto capital; Athens analogue with Argos heritage) Patron heritage: Argus Panoptes (the all-seeing giant).
Modern role: Intellectual/cultural center; philosophy academies, theaters, bustling markets, universities and strong tech base. Strong democratic traditions (assembly votes on major policy). Hosts the League's Pan-Hellenic Games every four years. Allows Atlas base; Pyrrha Nikos's ancestral home. Fiercely proud, views itself as cultural superior to "barbarian" Mistral. Powerful navy.
Asterius (Sparta analogue) Patron heritage: Asterius the Minotaur (labyrinthine strength).
Modern role: Militaristic powerhouse; rigorous agoge-style training for youth, elite hoplite/phalanx units. Semi-democratic but primarily oligarchic rule by warrior council. Rival to Argus (historical wars over border lands); emphasizes discipline over philosophy. Has a Valean military base. Excellent infantry and special forces and world class military academy.
Chiron (Corinth analogue) Patron heritage: Chiron the wise centaur.
Modern role: Commercial/trade hub; strategic isthmus-like ports, shipbuilding, finance. Balanced democratic oligarchy with merchant-prince families. Hosts smaller Isthmian-style games focused on water sports. Massive fishing industries.
Medusa (Thebes analogue) Patron heritage: Medusa the Gorgon (petrifying gaze as metaphor for unyielding defense).
Modern role: Fortified inland stronghold; strong walls, Boeotian League-style federation of nearby towns. History of siding with invaders, leading to lingering distrust from other poleis. Has excellent relations with Vacuo, Fuujin, and others-Has many casinos and centers of financial trade.
Polyphemus (Macedon analogue) Patron heritage: Polyphemus the Cyclops (raw strength, one-eyed vision as strategic foresight).
Modern role: Northern/mountainous region; heavy Dust and other mining operations, mechanized and other cavalry-heavy armies, expansionist history. Constitutional monarchy; supplies heavy infantry and military machinery to League defense and hosts many PMCs and tech companies, especially military oriented.
Typhon (Delphi analogue) Patron heritage: Typhon the storm giant.
Modern role: Oracle/shrine center; Tablebreaker monastery on volcanic slopes, but also the old Olympian Oracle temple where visions of the future can be read to the believers. Hosts Pythian-style games with musical/poetic contests alongside athletics. Artistic and scholarly, with music and dance academies and a focus on the humanities as well as religious and literary archives. Also features a Huntsman Academy; trains Huntsmen with emphasis on beast-slaying lore. Produces many elite warriors and support personnel for Hunters Association, PMCs, and militaries. Neutral arbiter in League disputes.
Echidna (Samos analogue) Patron heritage: Echidna the Mother of Monsters (serpent-woman, progenitor of beasts; reframed as primordial earth/sea mother or guardian spirit whose "offspring" were tamed by heroes).
Modern role: Island polis off the western coast; major maritime/trade power with fertile plains and strategic harbors. Famous for its grand Heraion sanctuary (repurposed as a Tablebreaker cathedral blending Hera iconography with serpent-mother motifs—e.g., sacred willow/serpent motifs in art). Engineering and philosophical schools. Balanced oligarchy with merchant and priestly families. Leans more towards Vacuo due to ancient relations in the past but tries to stay fairly neutral.


Smaller poleis include Chimera, Hydra, Scylla/Charybdis, Harpy, and many others, each with unique local customs but subordinate to the Seven in League matters.



Government & Society

Loose confederation: Annual council in Argus (rotating presidency). Each polis sends delegates; decisions require supermajority. Common defense, trade pacts, Games organization.
Internal rivalries: Fierce (Argus vs. Asterius debates, Medusa's old "traitor" stigma). Ostracism/exile for overly ambitious leaders or traitors rather than execution-Making them brave the wilds and Grimm alone is seen as a suitable punishment.
Pan-Hellenic Games: Major unifying event (every 4 years in Argus; cycle includes regional variants in Chiron/Typhon). Events: foot races, pentathlon (wrestling, long jump, javelin, discus, stadion), combat sports (boxing, pankration—no biting/gouging), chariot and horse racing. Winners get wreaths (olive in Argus, laurel in Typhon, etc.); multiple victories earn statues. Pyrrha's wins boosted her fame/prestige across the League alongside her wins in more traditional combat leagues.
Modern character: Culturally arrogant (Hellenic superiority complex vs. "barbarians" who aped their philosophy and culture), but pragmatic (trade with Vale/Vacuo, Atlas and Vale bases for security). Corrupt politics, but strong civic pride and checks.

 

[Snarky_Hastur]

• Echidna (Samos analogue) Patron heritage: Echidna the Mother of Monsters (serpent-woman, progenitor of beasts; reframed as primordial earth/sea mother or guardian spirit whose "offspring" were tamed by heroes).
• Modern role: Island polis off the western coast; major maritime/trade power with fertile plains and strategic harbors. Famous for its grand Heraion sanctuary (repurposed as a Tablebreaker cathedral blending Hera iconography with serpent-mother motifs—e.g., sacred willow/serpent motifs in art). Engineering and philosophical schools. Balanced oligarchy with merchant and priestly families. Leans more towards Vacuo due to ancient relations in the past but tries to stay fairly neutral.

Click to shrink...

Connecting this polis to Echidna, and the description of the Heraion sanctuary's iconography kind of gives me the impression that there was a time where Echidna served as the center of a cult around Salem or a forward operating base in a time before Iksander's Conquest.

 

[AndrewJTalon]

Connecting this polis to Echidna, and the description of the Heraion sanctuary's iconography kind of gives me the impression that there was a time where Echidna served as the center of a cult around Salem or a forward operating base in a time before Iksander's Conquest.

Click to shrink...

It is possible. It was also where the Witch Queen originated.

 

[AndrewJTalon]

Jaune holds a town hall for the Vytal Festival.

It does about as well as you might expect.

Chapter Text
The backstage of Vale's Government Tower town hall was filled with nervous energy, as the faint buzz from the packed theater drifted through the curtains. The air was thick with the scent of Yang Xiao Long's citrusy perfume and the faint tang of stage lights warming up. Jaune Arc, reluctant councilman and festival planner, stood in a cluttered dressing area, his blonde hair slicked back as Yang dabbed makeup on his face with a practiced hand. His blue eyes darted nervously, lips muttering a mantra to steady himself.

"Okay… Okay… I'm going to do okay… I'm going to do okay…" Jaune breathed, gripping the edge of a folding chair.

Pyrrha Nikos, radiant in her bronze armor, leaned forward with a warm smile. "You'll be fine!"

Weiss Schnee, clipboard in hand, adjusted her pristine white jacket. "Just follow the notes. That said, I still can't believe you were put in charge of planning the Vytal Festival!"

"He's not in charge, he's just the key Committee Member," Blake observed, barely looking up from her Scroll.

"I memorized the notes," Jaune said, voice steadier now. He glanced around, brow furrowing. "Who's on snack table duty?"

Nora Valkyrie bounced on her heels, hammer slung over her shoulder. "I am!"

Ren, ever calm beside her, deadpanned, "There is no more snack table."

Yang paused, makeup brush hovering. "Wait, I thought Ruby said she was doing it."

"That's why there's no more snack table!" Nora chirped, unapologetic.

Jaune's face paled. "Oh God…"

"Nora reassigned Ruby to security!" Nora added, grinning.

Weiss pinched the bridge of her nose. "Ren? Please calm him down?"

"I've got this," Yang declared, yanking Jaune's face into her chest with a playful smirk.

"MMPH?!" Jaune flailed, voice muffled against her sweater.

"It's scientifically proven that men calm down when they touch boobs! Especially big ones!" Yang teased, winking at Pyrrha.

Pyrrha's cheeks flared red. "W-Well, I can do that just as well!" She pulled Jaune into her chest, armor clinking.

"MMPH!" Jaune's arms waved desperately.

"Not as well as I can!" Yang tugged him back, grinning.

Weiss groaned, tossing her ponytail. "Always about boobs with you people…"

Blake Belladonna, lounging nearby with a book, smirked without looking up. "You're jealous."

"OF COURSE I'M JEALOUS!" Weiss snapped, then froze, mortified.

Blake's amber eyes glinted. "The first step is admitting it."

Weiss's face burned as Jaune, still caught in the tug-of-war, waved his arms like a drowning man. Nora tilted her head. "I think he's choking!"

Weiss muttered, "Wouldn't happen with me."

Sun Wukong burst in, shirt predictably unbuttoned, tail flicking. "GUYS! We're all set!"

Jaune gasped for air as Yang and Pyrrha released him. "Bwah…! Sun?"

"Hey! Blake asked me to help, and I thought, cool! Let's do government things!" Sun grinned.

"Yes, government things," Blake added with a nod.

"Oh… Thank you," Jaune said, catching his breath.

Weiss eyed Sun's open shirt. "Still not buttoning up, I see."

"Nope!" Sun said, unabashed. "Blake says it's for the female voters!"

"Well… Thank you, Blake," Jaune said, raising an eyebrow.

"I'll go introduce you with Ruby!" Sun said, bounding toward the stage.

"Oh, well, thanks…" Jaune muttered, straightening his tie.

Out at the microphone, the crowd's murmur filled the hall, a mix of curious citizens and opportunistic reporters. Sun grabbed the mic with flair as Ruby flanked him.

"Introducing… a really nice guy who loaned me sooo many pencils! You have no idea how many pencils, he was loaded with pencils!"

Ruby, in her red cloak, added: "Also, he can recite all the lyrics of Super Hyper Dimensional Fortress Evangelion! In Fuujin! It was amazing!"

"Councilman Jaune Arc!" Sun finished, throwing an arm out.

Jaune emerged to scattered applause, stepping into the spotlight as his friends took seats or stood nearby. He adjusted the mic, voice steady despite the sweat on his brow. "Thank you, guys. So, this town hall is to address your questions about the Vytal Festival. So, feel free to start asking!"

A Faunus with sharp dog ears stood, voice sharp. "Why are you giving the SDC a platform?! Even after all the allegations against their mistreatment of Faunus!"

Jaune nodded, unfazed, as Weiss and Blake nodded approvingly. "We're also giving Menagerie a platform, despite the fact that many Faunus from there support the White Fang's terrorist activities. It's my hope we can foster a dialogue between Faunus and humans who aren't at the extremes of the conflict, and help improve things. This is just after Menagerie made official diplomatic ties with Vale, despite the White Fang's attack on the Queen Star of Eridu airship liner last year. Vale is trying to act as a mediator in this ongoing conflict, so we must be as neutral as possible. Next question?"

Weiss and Blake spared him a small smile each. It made him feel confident as the Faunus sat down, looking satisfied.

A female voice rang out, bold and teasing. "How long is your dick?"

Jaune's face flushed. "Next question!"

A higher voice squeaked, "COCO!"

Coco Adel, sunglasses glinting, grinned from the crowd. "Shush, Velv! You were gonna ask it later!"

Velvet Scarlatina, ears drooping with bright red cheeks, muttered, "I literally wasn't, stop projecting…"

Russel Thrush shot up, mohawk quivering. "Yeah! Why are Hunters-in-training banned from alcohol until we're 21 like the rest of these losers?! We should be allowed to get hammered too!"

"That's… not related to Vytal," Jaune said, blinking.

"It's bullshit!" Russel snapped. "You grew up drinking wine since you were five!"

"That's because the laws are different in Gallia, not Vale Proper," Jaune explained.

"Then change them!" Russel demanded.

"Next question!" Jaune said quickly. Russel looked like he was about to say more, but Cardin Winchester glared death at him and he pouted in silence.

A man stood, voice tight. "Excuse me, Mr. Arc. This isn't a question as much as a complaint… but I live on property near where Vytal will take place, and your orange-haired teammate destroyed some of the trees I was growing. I just wanted to say… The hell, man?! They weren't even in the way!"

All eyes turned to Nora, who shrank slightly. "…Whoops."

Jaune sighed. "Ah, yes… Nora got a little carried away, but the city insurance policy will pay you back for that. And Nora will be more careful in the future."

Nora waved sheepishly. "SORRY!"

Lisa Lavender, ever the vulture, stood with her microphone. "Mr. Arc, how big is your harem, and which girl will have your child first?"

"No comment, next question!" Jaune said, voice firm.

A new voice cut through—A blonde and brash young lady in leather with goggles, pigtails, and large… Assets.

"Hey! I'm Burnice White! I'm from New Eridu!"

"Oh, uh, welcome to Vale?" Jaune said, confused.

"Thanks! So! When are we declaring war on New Eridu?" Burnice asked, grinning.

"I don't have that—What?" Jaune stammered.

Seth, a wiry Mistralian, shot up. "You can't declare war on New Eridu! It's part of Mistral!"

"So declare war on Mistral!" Burnice countered.

"Why?" Seth asked.

"They took away my liquor license!" Burnice huffed.

Jaune pinched his nose. "That's something we settle in civil court, not via warfare."

Another man stood, face red. "Hey, Arc! Your sister photoshopped my face onto a Grimm and sent it to my girlfriend! Fuck you! I can't say that to her because she's a kid, but… fuck you, dude!"

The crowd stared, dumbfounded. Jaune blinked. "I'm… sorry, I guess? I'll talk to her after?"

"Ladies and gentlemen," Pyrrha said, raising her hands, "we're here about the Vytal Festival. We should keep our focus on that, right?"

Lisa Lavender struck again. "Mr. Arc, is it true what Jacques Schnee tweeted not five minutes ago? That you're marrying his daughter? What happened to staying neutral?"

Jaune shook his head. "I'm not marrying Weiss Schnee. I don't know what Jacques said, but I'm not. Weiss can confirm that right now."

Weiss muttered, "…Damn it…" Flustered, she stood. "I-I mean… this is false! I would never marry this… perverted creep!"

She turned to Jaune, whispering, "I'm so sorry, I panicked!"

Cameras flashed like a lightning storm.

Jaune raised an eyebrow. "Then fix it while panicking?"

Weiss stammered, "I-I mean, he's not a pervert, he's an… okay guy? I guess?"

Lisa Lavender pounced. "Ms. Schnee, are you backtracking out of fear of repercussions from Councilman Arc? And Mr. Arc, what are your favorite kinks?"

"OKAY!" Jaune barked. "Anyone with questions about the Vytal Festival, in here! If you don't, please leave. Don't care where you go, but you can't stay here."

Half the crowd shuffled out, muttering. A lone guy stood. "Is there gonna be a waterslide this year?"

"Yes! There will be a waterslide!" Jaune said, relieved.

Lisa, undeterred, pressed, "Miss Schnee, is it true Councilman Arc is blackmailing you for sex?"

"Nobody is blackmailing anyone for sex!" Jaune snapped.

A woman in the crowd snorted. "True, who would need to be blackmailed into sex with him? I bet Schnee is gay. Who could turn that down?"

"She's not gay!" Ruby shouted. "She's got too bad of taste to be gay!"

"Shut up Ruby!" Weiss growled.

An older man stood, voice stern. "I have one. Mr. Arc, you're a first-year at Beacon Academy, miraculously given a position of power you are, without a doubt, completely unprepared for. You surround yourself with companions who cause nothing but chaos and destruction, unapologetically, mind you. Now you're given creative control over this very important tradition to honor all academies and lands together, and you all seem to be treating this like a joke. Is this a joke to you, Mr. Arc? Are you and your friends, who, mind you, have no official status in the government, going to treat this like a joke?"

Yang winced. "He… has a point…"

Ruby puffed out her cheeks. "We help!"

Blake muttered, "Do we?"

Jaune straightened, voice firm. "No, sir, I take this very seriously. My great-grandmother was Queen Arturia Pendragon, and she encouraged me to give this my all. I'm going to do this job to the best of my ability and make sure the Festival is a success. And while my friends are… chaotic, they do help and support me and do a lot of great stuff behind the scenes. They do, in fact, have official positions in the government as my staff—part-time due to their studies. The fact they do as much for me as they can is a testament to how much I trust them."

The old man nodded, satisfied. "I'm glad to hear it." He paused. "Also, tell the girl who ate all the cookies from the snack table earlier… my wife and I run a bakery, and we'd be more than happy to provide cookies for her… weapons presentation she was muttering about earlier."

A Valean man stood, voice sharp. "Excuse me, Mr. Arc, as a Valean patriot to a Valean patriot, don't you find it strange that Atlesians are in charge of security? What is the VDF doing? What is the National Security Bureau doing? And are you sure holding the Festival amidst these turbulent times is a good idea?"

Jaune nodded. "I agree it's strange, but the Council voted. I voted against it. The argument was that the VDF hasn't recovered sufficiently, even with the new budget to rearm, to do the job, and with the Breach, the security arrangements were inadequate. If we stop the Festival, we allow the terrorists who did the Breach to dictate our policy. We will not give in to fear."

Another voice piped up, sly. "Question from Spook Shack. Is it true every generation of Arcs has a harem?"

"No. That is not true," Jaune said, deadpan.

Lisa Lavender stood again. "Mr. Arc, an actual question this time."

Jaune's tone went flat. "That would be a first."

Lisa plowed on ahead, ignoring this.

"Do you think Ironwood is overstepping his jurisdiction by pushing for Atlesian security? Is the general too eager to assert himself into something he doesn't belong in?"

Jaune sucked in a breath.

"While I disagreed with turning over the entire security of the Festival to Atlas, I agree the VDF may not be ready to handle things on their own. I'm pushing for a joint security arrangement. I can't comment on the General's state of mind, as I'm not a mind reader."

Lisa pressed, "Would it be possible to acquire his opinion on the matter? Or hold a press conference with him?"

"You'd have to ask him," Jaune said.

Lisa continued, "Follow-up: Atlas and the SDC are almost one and the same to the public eye and their infrastructure. It wouldn't be unfair to assume the SDC can interfere with Atlas's security. Yet, when Menagerie offered assistance to deal with any White Fang threat, both Vale and Atlas declined. Can you guarantee the SDC didn't have a hand in keeping Menagerie's influence away, and that the SDC won't gain an unfair advantage through their Atlas connection?"

"You're the reporter; why don't you handle that?" Jaune said, deflecting. "Lisa, this is about the Festival. That's not my department. I just plan the Festival and set things up."

Lisa smirked. "So I'll put you down for no comment?"

"Yes," Jaune said, firm.

"Thank you very much," Lisa said, sitting.

Pyrrha leaned in, whispering to Jaune, "To be fair, you're one of the few government officials to answer questions straightforwardly, so it's not surprising they come to you with them."

Jaune muttered, "Right…"

Weiss groaned, and Blake, in a rare show of solidarity, patted her shoulder. "I hate my father…"

"We both do," Blake said comfortingly.

A man stood, waving at Lisa. "Can you make it a law for Lisa Lavender to do her newscasts in a bikini again? For the Festival?"

Lisa sputtered, "Excuse me?!"

"You did it once; it was amazing," the man said, grinning.

An older man raised both hands. "I second and third and fourth that, heheh!"

Blake stood, voice sharp. "Your attention, please! Can we get back on track with the Festival?"

The older man nodded. "Right, right… Will there be booth babes?"

"That's up to the preference of the vendors," Jaune said.

"WOOHOO!" the old man cheered.

"You're still not allowed to grope them unless they consent," Jaune added.

"Phooey!" the man grumbled, as a cop nearby gave an I'm watching you gesture.

"I know your porn history, Larry!" the old man shot back.

A girl stood, voice sultry. "Mr. Arc, do you need a date to the Vytal Festival? Because I'm single and willing! I'll also be ovulating at that time, just FYI!"

Jaune's face reddened. "I'm very flattered, but I'll have to decline. Sorry."

"What? Am I not good enough for you?!" the girl shrieked.

Yang leaned in with a grin.

"No! You aren't! I'm his girlfriend!" She shouted. The girl, undeterred, began to reach for her waist.

"I got your face tattooed on my tits! I'LL SHOW YOU!"

Security dogpiled her before she could lift her shirt, dragging her out. Jaune cleared his throat, voice strained. "Well… that's all the time we have for today. Thank you all. See you at the Festival!"

He stumbled backstage, beelining for the dressing room. Pressing his face into the wall, he groaned, voice muffled against the plaster.

Nora bounced in, grinning. "I think that went well!"

Jaune groaned louder.

Weiss, following, snapped, "Of course you would."

 

[TheFabulousCustodes]

"Hey! I'm Burnice White! I'm from New Eridu!"

"Oh, uh, welcome to Vale?" Jaune said, confused.

"Thanks! So! When are we declaring war on New Eridu?" Burnice asked, grinning.

"I don't have that—What?" Jaune stammered.

Click to shrink...

It would be funny if Weiss, Alice, and Lucy knew each other from school.

Weiss - "Hello Alice. Hello Lucy"

Lucy - "Weiss, I see you finally blew the coop as well."

Alice - "Hello Weiss, I see you're still asymmetrical *twitch* like Lucy."

 

[LordofBones]

She would.

For herself.

And someday, perhaps, strong enough to face even the dragon who'd let her go.

Click to shrink...

Fafnir: "Oh, come on! I even gave you The Speech! It worked with Winter!"
*Weiss has accidentally overextended herself and crashed into the rest of RBY. They knocked themselves out.*

Another bit with Fafnir and his relationship with the Schnees. Maybe a bit too emotional, but I wanted to get across that just as Klein was a father figure to Winter and Weiss, Fafnir too had a paternal relationship, of sorts, with Whitley.

Click to shrink...

Weiss constantly assuming the most nefarious situations with Fafnir and Whitley would be hilarious.

Jaune: *tilts head* "I'm pretty sure that he's teaching your brother how to fish."
Weiss: "A-HA! Robbing that lake of its natural resources, cold-heartedly exploiting the local economy to feed their greed!"

 

[Tenno]

It would be funny if Weiss, Alice, and Lucy knew each other from school.

Weiss - "Hello Alice. Hello Lucy"

Lucy - "Weiss, I see you finally blew the coop as well."

Alice - "Hello Weiss, I see you're still asymmetrical *twitch* like Lucy."

Click to shrink...

I honestly expected Wise to appear. And when he and Jaune meet, they will both become friends and commiserate about the girls in their "unofficial" harems.

 

[AndrewJTalon]

Taiyang faces his greatest challenge after Summer left and he got his head back on straight... His girls growing up. Fortunately he has a friend to help him out.

One-Shot, No Romance, Family.

Work Text:
Taiyang Xiao-Long faced the greatest challenge he'd ever been confronted with. Fighting the Queen of the Grimm, losing the love of his life (twice), all of that seemed to pale in comparison to the challenge before him.

Both of his girls-Both of them! They needed him. He had failed once before, but now? He had no more chances. He had to figure this out… He had to be there for them. He couldn't fail. He couldn't!

The Patch General Store was a cramped, fluorescent-lit maze of shelves, its air heavy with the scent of canned goods and cleaning supplies.

Taiyang Xiao Long stood frozen in the feminine products aisle, his broad shoulders hunched, his blond hair disheveled, and his blue eyes wide with a haunted look. His hands hovered over a dizzying array of pads and tampons.

He muttered "Which do I… what do I…?" His frantic whispers were barely audible over the store's tinny radio playing bad covers of ancient top twenty hits.

"Oh! Hello, Tai. Are you all right?" A gentle voice cut through his panic.

Taiyang's head snapped up, relief flooding his face as he spotted a smiling woman, her warm brown eyes crinkling behind round glasses, her greying auburn hair tucked under her Tablebreaker habit. Her small frame radiated calm, her hands clasped over a basket of groceries.

Taiyang twitched and reached out a hand towards her, desperation etched into his face.

"Sister Lucy… please… I need some help."

"With…?"

Lucy's gaze flicked to the shelves, understanding dawning. She looked up, her lips twitching.

"Oh… ohhh. Yang?"

Taiyang's expression grew more haunted, "And Ruby… they both started. At the same time."

Lucy chuckled, her laughter soft but grounding.

"It's all right, Tai. I'll help you."

Taiyang's knees wobbled as relief flooded his entire body.

"Thank you," Taiyang breathed, his shoulders sagging.

"I'll even explain the whole thing to them both," Lucy added, plucking a few packages from the shelf with practiced ease, "Since I've been helping them at Sunday School with other… Womanly concerns."

"Ohhh, thank you, thank you, thank God!" Taiyang groaned, his hands clasping around hers in prayer. Lucy chuckled.

"Easy, easy!" Lucy said, her tone teasing but kind. "Everything is going to be just fine, I promise."

"Thanks," Taiyang said, rubbing his neck. "Qrow and I were at a loss."

Lucy's eyebrow arched, her voice playful.

"What, was he going to hire a hooker to explain it to them?"

Taiyang froze, his eyes darting away.

"…Uh… n-no! Of course not! But, uh, let's get home as quickly as possible, just—just to get things going, right?"

Lucy's smile turned knowing, her tone dry.

"…Qrow said he was going to hire a hooker, didn't he?"

"He didn't say that!" Taiyang protested, his face reddening.

"More just that he strongly implied it?"

"... Maybe."

Lucy sighed, grabbing a final product and looping her arm through Taiyang's, her basket swinging.

"Let's get to your house before your girls are scarred for life, huh? Any more than they already are?"

"Good idea," Taiyang muttered, his voice thick with gratitude as they headed to the checkout.

- - -

They managed to get all the way back to the Xiao Long cabin. The living room was a cozy chaos of scattered mechanical devices and half-finished homework, the scent of pine mingling with the faint tang of pancakes and eggs from breakfast.

Yang, twelve and already fierce, sat cross-armed on the couch, her lilac eyes narrowed in embarrassment, while Ruby, ten and wide-eyed, clutched a stuffed Grimm plushie, her silver eyes darting nervously.

Lucy sat between them, her habit smoothed out, her voice calm and warm as she explained things with the same gentle clarity she used for Sunday sermons at Patch's Tablebreaker chapel.

"It's all natural, girls," Lucy said, holding up a diagram she'd sketched on a napkin, her smile reassuring. "Your bodies are growing, and that's a gift, even if it feels strange now. You're becoming strong women, like your mom and Summer were."

Yang's scowl softened at the mention of Raven, her voice small.

"Mom… didn't stick around for this stuff."

Lucy's hand rested on Yang's shoulder, her touch steady.

"She made her choices, Yang, but you're not her. You're you—brave, loyal, and fierce. And you've got Tai, Qrow, and me to help you through."

Ruby's voice was a whisper, her eyes glistening.

"Mom would've known what to say…"

"She would've," Lucy agreed, her voice soft but firm, pulling Ruby into a gentle hug. "But she'd be proud of you, Ruby, for facing this with your big heart. I'm here to help you both, just like she'd want."

Taiyang hovered in the doorway, his eyes misty as he watched Lucy work her quiet magic, easing his daughters' fears with stories of her own awkward youth and practical tips wrapped in humor. Their tension slowly faded, replaced with little laughs and warm smiles.

Taiyang had not been to church since Summer's death. He'd kept sending Ruby and Yang there, because that was what Summer wanted for them. His own beliefs… He wasn't sure he could believe in a God that could love someone like him, a miserable failure.

Yet… Sister Lucy took time out of her day to help them all out. At no profit to herself. He smiled softly, the weight on his heart lifting a little.

"Now! You two go to the bathroom," Lucy said with a smile. "If you need any help, just ask, but I know you two can handle this like the young ladies you are. And after? We'll go out for ice cream. My treat!"

"And cookies?" Ruby asked. Lucy nodded. Ruby squealed. "YEAH!"

Ruby shot off to the bathroom. Yang followed. She huffed.

"I-I would have figured it out," she said. Lucy nodded.

"I know, but everyone needs help once in a while," she said. Yang smiled gratefully, and turned to head off after her little sister. Taiyang came into the living room, and handed Lucy a cup of tea.

"Thank you," he said, "For everything."

Sister Lucy beamed back.

"It's what I'm here for."

Taiyang sighed heavily.

"I should've called you first."

"You should've," Lucy shot back, her tone teasing but pointed, "instead of joking about hookers."

Taiyang chuckled nervously.

"Oh… Yeah… Joking! That's me…"

Qrow walked in with a big smile.

"Hey kids! I've got someone to tell you all about-Oh. Hey Sister Lucy," Qrow trailed off.

A truly voluptuous black cat Faunus woman entered, her ears twitching happily.. She wore a very revealing white dress with a gold collar and expensive sunglasses. Sunglasses she pulled off dramatically with a big smile.

"Qrow baby, where are your nieces? I'm all ready to go-Oh! Hey Lucy!"

Sister Lucy sighed and waved at the Faunus woman.

"Hey Fuschia. How's it going?" She asked with a friendly smile. "Thank you for the donation to the church fund last Sunday, it was very much appreciated."

Fuschia beamed.

"It was nothing! You've been so kind to me since I moved here! So, where are Qrow-baby's little nieces? I can't wait to teach them about taking care of their-!"

"How about we all just go out for ice cream, huh?" Taiyang said quickly. "I-I mean, before we get into the…" His inner manhood shuddered, "Nitty-gritty?"

Fuschia looked him up and down, and winked.

"Anything for you, baby. I love a responsible man. I'll get the car ready!"

She turned and headed out the door.

Sister Lucy slowly turned and stared at the cringing Taiyang and Qrow.

"I mean… Technically she's not a hooker?" Taiyang said weakly.

"Please! I don't do that… Anymore," the Faunus woman called back through the door. "Now I do movies!"

"See? She does movies," Qrow grinned weakly.

"So I've heard," Lucy deadpanned.

In the end, they went out for ice cream and cookies, Taiyang got Fuschia's number on a card with a lipstick mark on it, Sister Lucy and Qrow won big at the arcade, and Yang and Ruby learned a lot more about women's health than they perhaps wanted to know. But instead of fear, they had confidence, and in the end, that's what the people who loved them wanted them to have more than anything else.

That and common sense, but that's another story.