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Why did you move so far away?
[ If she can't hear the annoyed tone in his voice, they haven't talked recently enough. He's annoyed about everything. ]
I want to go to an establishment in search of a lucky item, but I'm not certain it's reputable.
[ And last time he went alone bad things happened, so at least he's asking for assistance this time. ]
[ If she can't hear the annoyed tone in his voice, they haven't talked recently enough. He's annoyed about everything. ]
I want to go to an establishment in search of a lucky item, but I'm not certain it's reputable.
[ And last time he went alone bad things happened, so at least he's asking for assistance this time. ]
I have no idea. The universe is frozen, so the stars don't move. That means no horoscopes.
I obtained a lucky coin, however, and my familiar is good luck.
I obtained a lucky coin, however, and my familiar is good luck.
This coin is very particular. You flip it and if you guess correctly, the task you are flipping on is blessed with luck. However, if you ignore the results of the coin flip, it becomes doomed. It is a fickle item that should only be used when absolutely necessary. I would prefer something more generally effective.
This is the address to a cafe I want to investigate before we head out. It may bring us luck on our journey.
[ It's a pop-up rabbit cafe... ]
This is the address to a cafe I want to investigate before we head out. It may bring us luck on our journey.
[ It's a pop-up rabbit cafe... ]
That shouldn't be necessary. I will see you then.
[ Maybe carrots, but he thinks they provide treats at the cafe. ]
[ Maybe carrots, but he thinks they provide treats at the cafe. ]
[ Weiss takes forty-five minutes to get to the address Midorima sent. Working at a farm and tending to animals (and people), she had to shower and freshen up, after all. Fortunately, she doesn't have much clothes to choose from that picking what to wear was a challenge. She did, however, put a little bit of effort into her appearance. Not that doesn't, on normal days, but her hairpin's a little more upright than usual to show that she's serious! And respectable!
Myrtenaster is clipped to the belt she wears around her waist. It doesn't seem threatening at all with how small it is, but it does get some looks from people who walk past her as she waits outside. What's a small girl doing with a sword? Leave it to the knights.
Fighting's far from her mind right now, though. Not when there are so many bunnies just hopping around. She's doing her best to control and contain herself, but she's already making googly eyes at one particular red-eyed bunny. ]
Myrtenaster is clipped to the belt she wears around her waist. It doesn't seem threatening at all with how small it is, but it does get some looks from people who walk past her as she waits outside. What's a small girl doing with a sword? Leave it to the knights.
Fighting's far from her mind right now, though. Not when there are so many bunnies just hopping around. She's doing her best to control and contain herself, but she's already making googly eyes at one particular red-eyed bunny. ]
[ When she arrives, Midorima's already playing with the rabbits. He would never call it playing, of course. (He's absorbing their natural luck energy in preparation.) ]
You can't sustain yourself with just dogs?
[ Dogs, now rabbits too... ]
You can't sustain yourself with just dogs?
[ Dogs, now rabbits too... ]
[ As if she just got caught with her hand in the cookie jar, Weiss freezes. And so does her brain, apparently. ]
Wh- but it's got such wong ears and a cute butt— [ That did not help at all... ] Shut up, Shintawou!
[ ................. let's not say anything. ]
Wh- but it's got such wong ears and a cute butt— [ That did not help at all... ] Shut up, Shintawou!
[ ................. let's not say anything. ]
Yes, they're also considered very lucky creatures, but I'm still capable of speaking like an adult around them.
[ He's not shutting up. :) ]
[ He's not shutting up. :) ]
Mikasa and I got engaged!! On my birthday, even!
I'm so happy I just want to laugh and cry at same time.
I'm so happy I just want to laugh and cry at same time.
I May Fall ❄ May 1st
[ As the days pass into weeks...weeks to months... It slowly becomes clearer that the obstacles everyone faces are gradually beginning to build in scale. It's what everyone is being prepared for. Despite the danger it all poses, for the likes of Cloud? It almost feels like another day at 'work', so to speak. Then again, action was just the name of the game for the two of them now. Cloud in his constant efforts to get stronger so he can continue protecting his family and friends and continue suppressing Sephiroth's influence on the Planet. Weiss' duty as a Huntress and to her kingdom as the enemy threat looms ever so larger over the world. Yet they restored the world of Prismatica together, only to be tested (hopefully) one last time in Avalon.
At the end of the month, when they found some solace in the countryside life they've come to make their own, he noticed that something felt off about his girlfriend. Under the weather. Distracted. Out of sorts, only to bounce right back when he asked her what was wrong. At first, he didn't think much of it, perhaps the turn of events earlier finally taking a toll. Lord knows that as tuckered as he was, he'd keep soldiering forward too. The nights never changed then...except he would continue to pay extra attention to her. The month of April draws to a close, and the last thing he remembers is murmuring to her softly as his arm drapes her smaller body. When morning comes? It's like any other day once more...except this time he's the one who stirs first. ]
Nn...ah...
[ Light of a sleeper as he is, he didn't stir at all! Which meant that Weiss hadn't moved either. Sitting upright in bed, he sits down to find Weiss sound asleep still. She'd just gotten over being sick last month! So he's not so concerned. If anything, he can't help gently sighing as he leans over and shakes her shoulder. ]
Hey...
[ There's no response. But watching her peaceful face as the morning light pours in through the curtains and illuminates the bedroom, he can't help feel a sense of calm wash over him. She's usually so busy and on the go. He hasn't seen her sleep in like this since he finally freed her from the nightmares that shackled her on Prismatica. The memory of how far they came together brings a gentle smile to his face as he decides to leave her in bed. Brushing the hair that lines her pale face, he's almost tempted to go back down to bed with her and just cradle her till she finally stirs. But this time he has an impromptu idea.
He almost never gets the chance to do this... A long time ago, Cloud never would have thought of doing this! But he learned to make this solely for her happiness. ...anybody else who ever gets them is lucky! His gaze briefly flits to the back of his hand, where the command seals to his Servant once lay. The look of jubilant joy on her face when he finally delivered a perfect crepe to her the first time and the encouragement she gave when it came to making them for Weiss... He sighs in reminisce, smile softening further as he finally swings his legs out of bed. Careful not to disturb her, he silently leaves the room and starts heading downstairs to prepare breakfast in bed! ]
— — —
[ "My, this is a surprise. Is young Weiss still asleep?" ]
[ Elaine enters the kitchen, perhaps lured by the smell of freshly brewed coffee and the sizzle of bacon that colors nicely in the pan. Sparing a glance over his shoulder as he stirs the bacon bits meant for the savory breakfast crepes, he nods his head with a little smile. ]
Surprised me too.
[ That nets a soft chuckle from the elderly farmlady, who takes it upon herself to grab herself a mug and pour herself some coffee that Cloud's made. She's decided to take the day off today, save for making sure the animals are fed and their water troughs are replenished. She doesn't expect to be fed this time! But she patiently waits for the blond to complete whatever he's concocting. Returning to the table, she chimes in once more as they carry a conversation. Most of it revolves around asking of their progress since arriving in this world, the signs of chivalry and blooming knighthood she personally sees in the both of them. Cloud...was still of the opinion that he'd rather work outside the boundaries of the king. Not that he doesn't trust him, but he feels better when he can be more flexible in his actions.
Elaine has noticed that since a couple months back, he's been going out more often, but also taking over the house even more when he and Weiss were back! It's something that finally gets him to blush, only coolly shrugging it off as he finally goes on to dropping the batter into the buttered pan. Yet despite his surface-level embarrassment, he doesn't fully shy away from talking about Weiss either. The only time he finally attempts to dismiss or curve the conversation? Is when Elaine can't help but tease him as he talks.
"Oh look at that smile..."
He hadn't stopped smiling the entire time he'd been making these crepes for her. Something that makes his face burn hot when it gets attention drawn to it. Thank god he's wrapping up plating Weiss' food. He dismisses himself with a sigh, telling her to take it easy as he quietly makes his way up the stairs. ]
Weiss!
[ He calls, but there's still no answer. He would have thought she'd have come down when she couldn't feel him near her anymore. Or maybe she was showering or brushing her hair... Still, as nudges the door open with his shoulder, he peers into the room to spot her out like a light still. ]
You're really out of it...
[ But even he knows that she'd probably get huffy or ask why he didn't get her up sooner if he just left her! Setting the fresh breakfast plate of crepes down on her nightstand, he sits down on her side of the bed, staring down at her as he runs his hand across her forehead again, brushing her stray bangs to the side. ]
'Kay. That's it. [ He firmly grabs her shoulder and finally starts shaking her. Nothing harsh! But even she's gotta stir. ] Up and at'em. Got something for you...
[ He stops, cocking an eyebrow as she didn't even groan from getting disturbed. ]
... [ He tries again. Harder this time as he shakes her shoulder rapidly. ] ... Weiss, hey, c'mon—
[ Again. And again. This time? His heart feels heavy without quite dropping, eyes widening with a sudden shift in mood. She's not waking up... He can hear her breathing like nothing's amiss but...she's not waking up at all. The plate of crepes forgotten, he leans over her and finally decides to take the risk, carefully scooping her upper body up into his arms as he holds her.
His tone firms. ]
Hey. Wake up.
[ Her head is bowed against him, nary a response as his mouth suddenly starts to feel dry. His hands shake. And before the panic sets in, ]
Weiss...?
— — —
May 2nd • Next Morning . . .
— — —
[ It's been...almost 24 hours? Shorter? Longer? He can't even tell anymore. He's only had about one to two hours of sleep this entire time, almost never once leaving her side as he either remains seated at her bedside or with his head down on the mattress. Every time he felt she was moving, his eyes would shoot awake and he'd check on her condition again. No fever. Breathing. It's like she was placed under a spell...
The last thing he wanted to do was get anyone worried yet, so he monitors Weiss' status, not letting Ruby or the others in on what's happened just yet. At least, he tries to keep things under wraps. The only person who knows about what's happened to Weiss from the get-go is Elaine herself, who continues to check in on Cloud and attempts to get him to finally eat and sleep. It...doesn't work so well. The look of concern hasn't once left his face, even when he attempts weakly smiling down at her to share some strength. His eyes betray him. He's worried about losing her after all.
At some point in the night before, he was prepared to finally take his leave and search for a cure to her seeming eternal slumber, until he was stopped by their landlord. If it wasn't for her putting him at ease of Weiss' condition, he would have alerted the entire network begging for a cure and help already- even if that kind of stress and fear wasn't right to place upon her friends. But instead, he listens to the wise woman's tale, a tale of memories and faeries that would put lost travelers into a deep slumber to rediscover themselves.
Upon waking up, they would suddenly know their way home. How did she know this...? Before Cloud can ask any further questions lingering on the edge of his mind, the aged, bony hand of the woman rests atop his, sagely smiling and encouraging him to have faith in Weiss. As Weiss would have faith in him. They're here for a reason. And if their bond is so strong, she will remember what she has lost and come back to him. Surprised by her words, he reluctantly concedes to staying at Weiss' side throughout the night.
All the way through, only finally beginning to fade as he lays his head down on the bed beside the sleeping Weiss, lids growing heavier. ]
[ As the days pass into weeks...weeks to months... It slowly becomes clearer that the obstacles everyone faces are gradually beginning to build in scale. It's what everyone is being prepared for. Despite the danger it all poses, for the likes of Cloud? It almost feels like another day at 'work', so to speak. Then again, action was just the name of the game for the two of them now. Cloud in his constant efforts to get stronger so he can continue protecting his family and friends and continue suppressing Sephiroth's influence on the Planet. Weiss' duty as a Huntress and to her kingdom as the enemy threat looms ever so larger over the world. Yet they restored the world of Prismatica together, only to be tested (hopefully) one last time in Avalon.
At the end of the month, when they found some solace in the countryside life they've come to make their own, he noticed that something felt off about his girlfriend. Under the weather. Distracted. Out of sorts, only to bounce right back when he asked her what was wrong. At first, he didn't think much of it, perhaps the turn of events earlier finally taking a toll. Lord knows that as tuckered as he was, he'd keep soldiering forward too. The nights never changed then...except he would continue to pay extra attention to her. The month of April draws to a close, and the last thing he remembers is murmuring to her softly as his arm drapes her smaller body. When morning comes? It's like any other day once more...except this time he's the one who stirs first. ]
Nn...ah...
[ Light of a sleeper as he is, he didn't stir at all! Which meant that Weiss hadn't moved either. Sitting upright in bed, he sits down to find Weiss sound asleep still. She'd just gotten over being sick last month! So he's not so concerned. If anything, he can't help gently sighing as he leans over and shakes her shoulder. ]
Hey...
[ There's no response. But watching her peaceful face as the morning light pours in through the curtains and illuminates the bedroom, he can't help feel a sense of calm wash over him. She's usually so busy and on the go. He hasn't seen her sleep in like this since he finally freed her from the nightmares that shackled her on Prismatica. The memory of how far they came together brings a gentle smile to his face as he decides to leave her in bed. Brushing the hair that lines her pale face, he's almost tempted to go back down to bed with her and just cradle her till she finally stirs. But this time he has an impromptu idea.
He almost never gets the chance to do this... A long time ago, Cloud never would have thought of doing this! But he learned to make this solely for her happiness. ...anybody else who ever gets them is lucky! His gaze briefly flits to the back of his hand, where the command seals to his Servant once lay. The look of jubilant joy on her face when he finally delivered a perfect crepe to her the first time and the encouragement she gave when it came to making them for Weiss... He sighs in reminisce, smile softening further as he finally swings his legs out of bed. Careful not to disturb her, he silently leaves the room and starts heading downstairs to prepare breakfast in bed! ]
[ "My, this is a surprise. Is young Weiss still asleep?" ]
[ Elaine enters the kitchen, perhaps lured by the smell of freshly brewed coffee and the sizzle of bacon that colors nicely in the pan. Sparing a glance over his shoulder as he stirs the bacon bits meant for the savory breakfast crepes, he nods his head with a little smile. ]
Surprised me too.
[ That nets a soft chuckle from the elderly farmlady, who takes it upon herself to grab herself a mug and pour herself some coffee that Cloud's made. She's decided to take the day off today, save for making sure the animals are fed and their water troughs are replenished. She doesn't expect to be fed this time! But she patiently waits for the blond to complete whatever he's concocting. Returning to the table, she chimes in once more as they carry a conversation. Most of it revolves around asking of their progress since arriving in this world, the signs of chivalry and blooming knighthood she personally sees in the both of them. Cloud...was still of the opinion that he'd rather work outside the boundaries of the king. Not that he doesn't trust him, but he feels better when he can be more flexible in his actions.
Elaine has noticed that since a couple months back, he's been going out more often, but also taking over the house even more when he and Weiss were back! It's something that finally gets him to blush, only coolly shrugging it off as he finally goes on to dropping the batter into the buttered pan. Yet despite his surface-level embarrassment, he doesn't fully shy away from talking about Weiss either. The only time he finally attempts to dismiss or curve the conversation? Is when Elaine can't help but tease him as he talks.
"Oh look at that smile..."
He hadn't stopped smiling the entire time he'd been making these crepes for her. Something that makes his face burn hot when it gets attention drawn to it. Thank god he's wrapping up plating Weiss' food. He dismisses himself with a sigh, telling her to take it easy as he quietly makes his way up the stairs. ]
Weiss!
[ He calls, but there's still no answer. He would have thought she'd have come down when she couldn't feel him near her anymore. Or maybe she was showering or brushing her hair... Still, as nudges the door open with his shoulder, he peers into the room to spot her out like a light still. ]
You're really out of it...
[ But even he knows that she'd probably get huffy or ask why he didn't get her up sooner if he just left her! Setting the fresh breakfast plate of crepes down on her nightstand, he sits down on her side of the bed, staring down at her as he runs his hand across her forehead again, brushing her stray bangs to the side. ]
'Kay. That's it. [ He firmly grabs her shoulder and finally starts shaking her. Nothing harsh! But even she's gotta stir. ] Up and at'em. Got something for you...
[ He stops, cocking an eyebrow as she didn't even groan from getting disturbed. ]
... [ He tries again. Harder this time as he shakes her shoulder rapidly. ] ... Weiss, hey, c'mon—
[ Again. And again. This time? His heart feels heavy without quite dropping, eyes widening with a sudden shift in mood. She's not waking up... He can hear her breathing like nothing's amiss but...she's not waking up at all. The plate of crepes forgotten, he leans over her and finally decides to take the risk, carefully scooping her upper body up into his arms as he holds her.
His tone firms. ]
Hey. Wake up.
[ Her head is bowed against him, nary a response as his mouth suddenly starts to feel dry. His hands shake. And before the panic sets in, ]
Weiss...?
May 2nd • Next Morning . . .
— — —
[ It's been...almost 24 hours? Shorter? Longer? He can't even tell anymore. He's only had about one to two hours of sleep this entire time, almost never once leaving her side as he either remains seated at her bedside or with his head down on the mattress. Every time he felt she was moving, his eyes would shoot awake and he'd check on her condition again. No fever. Breathing. It's like she was placed under a spell...
The last thing he wanted to do was get anyone worried yet, so he monitors Weiss' status, not letting Ruby or the others in on what's happened just yet. At least, he tries to keep things under wraps. The only person who knows about what's happened to Weiss from the get-go is Elaine herself, who continues to check in on Cloud and attempts to get him to finally eat and sleep. It...doesn't work so well. The look of concern hasn't once left his face, even when he attempts weakly smiling down at her to share some strength. His eyes betray him. He's worried about losing her after all.
At some point in the night before, he was prepared to finally take his leave and search for a cure to her seeming eternal slumber, until he was stopped by their landlord. If it wasn't for her putting him at ease of Weiss' condition, he would have alerted the entire network begging for a cure and help already- even if that kind of stress and fear wasn't right to place upon her friends. But instead, he listens to the wise woman's tale, a tale of memories and faeries that would put lost travelers into a deep slumber to rediscover themselves.
Upon waking up, they would suddenly know their way home. How did she know this...? Before Cloud can ask any further questions lingering on the edge of his mind, the aged, bony hand of the woman rests atop his, sagely smiling and encouraging him to have faith in Weiss. As Weiss would have faith in him. They're here for a reason. And if their bond is so strong, she will remember what she has lost and come back to him. Surprised by her words, he reluctantly concedes to staying at Weiss' side throughout the night.
All the way through, only finally beginning to fade as he lays his head down on the bed beside the sleeping Weiss, lids growing heavier. ]
[ Had Weiss woken up when she couldn't feel Cloud beside her anymore, she would definitely have looked for him around the house after checking her phone. If he left for the city to run an errand or two, he would have said something the night before. Any other time he goes out in the morning unplanned must be something important.
And when she sees him making breakfast? He'd get a hug from behind, with Weiss slipping in next to him soon after to kiss him good morning.
Except none of that happens. Weiss is fast asleep, not even that stressed the night before! She went to bed fine, the usual things that get her to space out far from her mind. But it seems that what's been making her act a little oddly has taken its toll, though, and her Arma Gigas is not at all happy with what's been happening. Between the two of them, it is the Arma Gigas that has more power in this world. It's the source of Weiss' own magic, that with its death, Weiss would not be able to use what she's honed and learned throughout the months she's been here. Their relationship is definitely professional in that Weiss counts on it if she needs its help, and he provides whatever assistance Weiss needs. It's always been that way, even from the start, and even back in Prismatica and Remnant.
The truth of the matter is, the Arma Gigas is her servant. One who was an enemy, defeated and no longer living. Weiss would think that it is the strongest opponent she's ever faced before coming to Beacon, and defeating it changed her life entirely. And when she mastered her summoning Glyphs and she was finally able to summon it? The two of them had an unspoken contract— that it will serve Weiss as her ally, fight for her, and defend her so long as her soul is intact.
And when it realises that there's something wrong with the former heiress? It figures that there is something it must do. Their bond had been growing weaker, so her must strengthen it by strengthening what memories she has of home. In the middle of the night, the Arma Gigas leaves without a trace, only to decide to come back once its bond with Weiss has become strong enough once again.
Weiss is none the wiser to it all. Missing out on the breakfast that Cloud made, not even waking up to comfort him and make sure he's okay when he was upset and worried and distraught. She's completely unaware of what her familiar had done to her, as well, unconscious throughout the first day of the month, only to find herself beginning to stir the morning after. And for someone who had been sleeping so calmly in bed, what she'd experience in her slumber were all terrible things. Things that may as well have been a nightmare, but for some reason, as Weiss shoots upwards, finally awake, she's completely convinced— no, she knows it in her heart— that all of it was real.
Salem is in Atlas, Cinder is in Atlas. She and her teammates found a way to save the people of Atlas and the people of Mantle, even if it meant that both cities would fall and be destroyed. Penny's become human. They were told by Ambrosius not to fall. They weren't supposed to fall. The plan was perfect. Cinder was there. Neopolitan was there. Yang fell. Blake tried to follow. Weiss stopped her. Ruby fell. Blake tried to save her. They both fell.
They both fell. Her teammates are gone. Her teammates are gone, and as all these memories slam into her like a freight train, a whimper leaves her lips as she forces herself not to start sobbing. Her eyes are already wet before she could even realise it, and she can't even see her Arma Gigas materialise next to her side of the bed. She can't see anything. Her face feels so hot. Everything's a mess. Her teammates fell. Her teammates are gone. It wasn't a dream. It was more than that. ]
Ah! No!
[ No. She says it again, hands flying to her head in frustration and anger. And she doesn't mean to, and her Arma Gigas surely doesn't mean for it to happen either, but a couple of pieces of furniture fall to the floor from her bedside table. The bed she shares with Cloud begins to shake, almost as if it could fly and get slammed to the wall at any given notice. Even some other things in the room are beginning to shake, and if Weiss isn't conscious of what she's doing now? Things might fall apart. Quite literally. ]
And when she sees him making breakfast? He'd get a hug from behind, with Weiss slipping in next to him soon after to kiss him good morning.
Except none of that happens. Weiss is fast asleep, not even that stressed the night before! She went to bed fine, the usual things that get her to space out far from her mind. But it seems that what's been making her act a little oddly has taken its toll, though, and her Arma Gigas is not at all happy with what's been happening. Between the two of them, it is the Arma Gigas that has more power in this world. It's the source of Weiss' own magic, that with its death, Weiss would not be able to use what she's honed and learned throughout the months she's been here. Their relationship is definitely professional in that Weiss counts on it if she needs its help, and he provides whatever assistance Weiss needs. It's always been that way, even from the start, and even back in Prismatica and Remnant.
The truth of the matter is, the Arma Gigas is her servant. One who was an enemy, defeated and no longer living. Weiss would think that it is the strongest opponent she's ever faced before coming to Beacon, and defeating it changed her life entirely. And when she mastered her summoning Glyphs and she was finally able to summon it? The two of them had an unspoken contract— that it will serve Weiss as her ally, fight for her, and defend her so long as her soul is intact.
And when it realises that there's something wrong with the former heiress? It figures that there is something it must do. Their bond had been growing weaker, so her must strengthen it by strengthening what memories she has of home. In the middle of the night, the Arma Gigas leaves without a trace, only to decide to come back once its bond with Weiss has become strong enough once again.
Weiss is none the wiser to it all. Missing out on the breakfast that Cloud made, not even waking up to comfort him and make sure he's okay when he was upset and worried and distraught. She's completely unaware of what her familiar had done to her, as well, unconscious throughout the first day of the month, only to find herself beginning to stir the morning after. And for someone who had been sleeping so calmly in bed, what she'd experience in her slumber were all terrible things. Things that may as well have been a nightmare, but for some reason, as Weiss shoots upwards, finally awake, she's completely convinced— no, she knows it in her heart— that all of it was real.
Salem is in Atlas, Cinder is in Atlas. She and her teammates found a way to save the people of Atlas and the people of Mantle, even if it meant that both cities would fall and be destroyed. Penny's become human. They were told by Ambrosius not to fall. They weren't supposed to fall. The plan was perfect. Cinder was there. Neopolitan was there. Yang fell. Blake tried to follow. Weiss stopped her. Ruby fell. Blake tried to save her. They both fell.
They both fell. Her teammates are gone. Her teammates are gone, and as all these memories slam into her like a freight train, a whimper leaves her lips as she forces herself not to start sobbing. Her eyes are already wet before she could even realise it, and she can't even see her Arma Gigas materialise next to her side of the bed. She can't see anything. Her face feels so hot. Everything's a mess. Her teammates fell. Her teammates are gone. It wasn't a dream. It was more than that. ]
Ah! No!
[ No. She says it again, hands flying to her head in frustration and anger. And she doesn't mean to, and her Arma Gigas surely doesn't mean for it to happen either, but a couple of pieces of furniture fall to the floor from her bedside table. The bed she shares with Cloud begins to shake, almost as if it could fly and get slammed to the wall at any given notice. Even some other things in the room are beginning to shake, and if Weiss isn't conscious of what she's doing now? Things might fall apart. Quite literally. ]
[ Perhaps only falling asleep for a barely a minute, his eyes shoot open when he suddenly hears the rustle of the bedsheets, her body shooting straight up. Rapidly shaking his head to rid himself of whatever cobwebs formed, he musters all the energy he can into seeing Weiss. Making sure that he wasn't dreaming as he drifts off. She's up. She's awake. At first, he wants to feel elation and relief, but his expression is stern as he focuses on helping bring her back to reality. His hand rests atop her thigh as he sits upright, calling out to her. ]
Hey, hey hey hey... Weiss-
[ But something's wrong. He can immediately tell that something was different. Was it a nightmare? Her eyes are glassy with tears, a whimper leaving her lips as he suddenly reels back his assertive approach. Confused and caught up in this growing whirlwind of emotions, his brow lifts as a sense of empathy washes over him. That's when his eyes shift towards the Arma Gigas that manifests in the room, only for Weiss to scream out. Things begin falling over and his first instinct overrides all else, even if it seems like she's the one causing the room to feel like it's shaking. ]
Ggh—
[ He takes a chance, ignoring the Arma Gigas entirely as he jumps entirely onto the bed with her. With no effort, he lifts Weiss up until she's on her knees with him, on top of the trembling bed that he can feel losing solid ground. It's her magic... It's going out of control... She can't even see him, can she? One way or another, he has to stop this. He has to stop her. The whole damn room can get destroyed for all he cares, but all he can think about right now? Is the girl whose arms he throws around. His hold isn't gentle. It's a tight embrace, a hand clutching the back of her nightgown tight while the other presses to the back of her head.
Clutching his eyes shut, he takes a deep breath as the bed shakes and the pressure of her magic grows stronger. Only for him to exhale gently... ]
Shhh shh shh shh...
[ Come back to him, Weiss. Please. ]
Hey, it's me... It's me, Weiss.
Hey, hey hey hey... Weiss-
[ But something's wrong. He can immediately tell that something was different. Was it a nightmare? Her eyes are glassy with tears, a whimper leaving her lips as he suddenly reels back his assertive approach. Confused and caught up in this growing whirlwind of emotions, his brow lifts as a sense of empathy washes over him. That's when his eyes shift towards the Arma Gigas that manifests in the room, only for Weiss to scream out. Things begin falling over and his first instinct overrides all else, even if it seems like she's the one causing the room to feel like it's shaking. ]
Ggh—
[ He takes a chance, ignoring the Arma Gigas entirely as he jumps entirely onto the bed with her. With no effort, he lifts Weiss up until she's on her knees with him, on top of the trembling bed that he can feel losing solid ground. It's her magic... It's going out of control... She can't even see him, can she? One way or another, he has to stop this. He has to stop her. The whole damn room can get destroyed for all he cares, but all he can think about right now? Is the girl whose arms he throws around. His hold isn't gentle. It's a tight embrace, a hand clutching the back of her nightgown tight while the other presses to the back of her head.
Clutching his eyes shut, he takes a deep breath as the bed shakes and the pressure of her magic grows stronger. Only for him to exhale gently... ]
Shhh shh shh shh...
[ Come back to him, Weiss. Please. ]
Hey, it's me... It's me, Weiss.
No...
[ Growing up, Weiss had dedicated herself to becoming a Huntress. Someone who would bring back the glory to the Schnee family name. A name that her grandfather built on his own not just as a businessman who provided the world with so much advancement in technology and energy, but as a Huntsman who protected the people of Remnant. It's why she studied hard, did everything she could to become more like Winter who became a licensed Huntress at a young age, and why she fought to be free from the grasp of her father. As it turns out, what she imagined being a Huntress would be like was far from reality.
Sure, the essence is still there—she is a defender of Remnant and its people—but now? Who she's fighting aren't monsters, aren't mindless creatures who feed off negative energy, but people. What she's become part of is far too big for someone like her or her teammates to even fully grasp, but they've all committed themselves to moving forward and doing what they can together.
She asks herself now, if she would meet the same fate as her teammates did. That what she'd been fighting for was all for naught. Would she be able to stop Cinder without her teammates? What she'd been thinking then, in the midst of a battle, was that she had to keep moving forward. It wasn't just for herself anymore, but she had to stand up and keep fighting and give her all for Yang, Ruby, and Blake's sakes. If she gives up, then what her teammates fought for and lost along the way wouldn't mean anything.
The bed continues to shake, and she begins to radiate some sort of energy that repels what's close to her. When Cloud embraces her and holds her tight in his arms, he might feel like he's being pushed away. What energy she's stored up for some time now due to her being asleep zaps at Cloud's skin. It shouldn't be enough to cause any burns... not yet, anyway.
But everything suddenly stills. What was moving, almost about to fall from the walls move slower until all the shaking stops. Weiss herself doesn't seem to be repelling anything or anyone anymore, and the siphon magic she'd somehow stored while she was asleep just dissipates. She hasn't realised yet where she is, but what her senses recognise far more than anything is the warmth around her. Her sobs become softer until it's just the sound of her trying to breath in between her tears. She recognises a familiar voice, calming and so soothing, one that she's come to love to listen to no matter what it's saying. Her hands ball into fists on his shirt, holding onto him so tightly despite how much her hands are trembling. A minute or two later, her crying's ceased, but her breath is still shaky. It's Cloud. It's him. He's here. That's what she recognises most, and she remembers something so vividly, that she can even hear his voice in her head.
Despite how crazy everything is, and how she's lost her family and friends, and how she might not even make it out alive? Everything is so frightening and she feels so alone. A little part of her is clinging onto these words. Words, that back then, she didn't take to heart because it carried so much weight—
"Come what may, I'm right beside you." ]
Please... Please don't go. [ She pulls away if only to look at him, eyes getting watery as she's about to start crying again. ] Cinder, she— and Ruby—
[ It's as she shakes her head slowly to deny everything that's happened that her tears fall once more. ]
Please. You promised. You can't—
[ Not you, too. ]
[ Growing up, Weiss had dedicated herself to becoming a Huntress. Someone who would bring back the glory to the Schnee family name. A name that her grandfather built on his own not just as a businessman who provided the world with so much advancement in technology and energy, but as a Huntsman who protected the people of Remnant. It's why she studied hard, did everything she could to become more like Winter who became a licensed Huntress at a young age, and why she fought to be free from the grasp of her father. As it turns out, what she imagined being a Huntress would be like was far from reality.
Sure, the essence is still there—she is a defender of Remnant and its people—but now? Who she's fighting aren't monsters, aren't mindless creatures who feed off negative energy, but people. What she's become part of is far too big for someone like her or her teammates to even fully grasp, but they've all committed themselves to moving forward and doing what they can together.
She asks herself now, if she would meet the same fate as her teammates did. That what she'd been fighting for was all for naught. Would she be able to stop Cinder without her teammates? What she'd been thinking then, in the midst of a battle, was that she had to keep moving forward. It wasn't just for herself anymore, but she had to stand up and keep fighting and give her all for Yang, Ruby, and Blake's sakes. If she gives up, then what her teammates fought for and lost along the way wouldn't mean anything.
The bed continues to shake, and she begins to radiate some sort of energy that repels what's close to her. When Cloud embraces her and holds her tight in his arms, he might feel like he's being pushed away. What energy she's stored up for some time now due to her being asleep zaps at Cloud's skin. It shouldn't be enough to cause any burns... not yet, anyway.
But everything suddenly stills. What was moving, almost about to fall from the walls move slower until all the shaking stops. Weiss herself doesn't seem to be repelling anything or anyone anymore, and the siphon magic she'd somehow stored while she was asleep just dissipates. She hasn't realised yet where she is, but what her senses recognise far more than anything is the warmth around her. Her sobs become softer until it's just the sound of her trying to breath in between her tears. She recognises a familiar voice, calming and so soothing, one that she's come to love to listen to no matter what it's saying. Her hands ball into fists on his shirt, holding onto him so tightly despite how much her hands are trembling. A minute or two later, her crying's ceased, but her breath is still shaky. It's Cloud. It's him. He's here. That's what she recognises most, and she remembers something so vividly, that she can even hear his voice in her head.
Despite how crazy everything is, and how she's lost her family and friends, and how she might not even make it out alive? Everything is so frightening and she feels so alone. A little part of her is clinging onto these words. Words, that back then, she didn't take to heart because it carried so much weight—
"Come what may, I'm right beside you." ]
Please... Please don't go. [ She pulls away if only to look at him, eyes getting watery as she's about to start crying again. ] Cinder, she— and Ruby—
[ It's as she shakes her head slowly to deny everything that's happened that her tears fall once more. ]
Please. You promised. You can't—
[ Not you, too. ]
Edited (Typo...) 2021-05-03 14:48 (UTC)
[ Cloud perseveres. The bed shakes harder as the pressure in his chest growing stronger. He knows that in her blinded emotional state, he could very well feel like a threat clutching her now. Yet he grits his teeth only temporarily as his skin tingles, turning into a sweltering heat as jolts course through his body. But he doesn't stop. This is nothing to him. He only just got her back and it's only been a day, but he can't let go of her now. And just when he's preparing himself mentally for the inevitable backlash... ]
......?
[ It stops. Everything stills as the bed ceases creaking and protesting. Breathing, finally, Cloud's hold of Weiss loosens in kind as he sighs with relief. His expression doesn't falter, sternly staring ahead as he stays the pillar of support that Weiss may lean on as she sobs against him. Something happened. Something terrible. He reflects back on what Elaine said before, of the tale that lost travelers would be set to slumber so that they may be set on the right path. That in their state of rest, they would find what was once lost. Only then, does the determined look in his eyes finally begin to soften as her tears bleed into him, empathy overflowing as he finally pulls away to look into her eyes.
His hands move to her shoulders, keeping her steady as it slowly begins dawning on him. ]
I won't. 'Kay?
[ "Cinder, she— and Ruby—" ]
?!
[ Now there's a name that only continues to make his skin crawl. Hearing of Cinder again, he stares with a look of surprise. And then she mentions Ruby... Pleading for him not to go. He sucks in a breath, steeling himself as he focuses on the most important thing right now. In that Weiss was alive and here with him. That he can carry out his promise to her still as he returns to hugging her tight. His hand settles on the back of her head once more, gently stroking through her hair as he cradles her in his strong arms.
There's questions that need answering, but he won't rush them either. Instead, he continues to soothe and shoulder her burdens and cries. ]
Take your time. You're back. It's okay...
[ Taking another long breath, he softly sighs, planting a kiss on the side of her head before he catches the Arma Gigas in his peripheral view. He's not worried about it, but seeing it emerge after all this time... He wonders... ]
......?
[ It stops. Everything stills as the bed ceases creaking and protesting. Breathing, finally, Cloud's hold of Weiss loosens in kind as he sighs with relief. His expression doesn't falter, sternly staring ahead as he stays the pillar of support that Weiss may lean on as she sobs against him. Something happened. Something terrible. He reflects back on what Elaine said before, of the tale that lost travelers would be set to slumber so that they may be set on the right path. That in their state of rest, they would find what was once lost. Only then, does the determined look in his eyes finally begin to soften as her tears bleed into him, empathy overflowing as he finally pulls away to look into her eyes.
His hands move to her shoulders, keeping her steady as it slowly begins dawning on him. ]
I won't. 'Kay?
[ "Cinder, she— and Ruby—" ]
?!
[ Now there's a name that only continues to make his skin crawl. Hearing of Cinder again, he stares with a look of surprise. And then she mentions Ruby... Pleading for him not to go. He sucks in a breath, steeling himself as he focuses on the most important thing right now. In that Weiss was alive and here with him. That he can carry out his promise to her still as he returns to hugging her tight. His hand settles on the back of her head once more, gently stroking through her hair as he cradles her in his strong arms.
There's questions that need answering, but he won't rush them either. Instead, he continues to soothe and shoulder her burdens and cries. ]
Take your time. You're back. It's okay...
[ Taking another long breath, he softly sighs, planting a kiss on the side of her head before he catches the Arma Gigas in his peripheral view. He's not worried about it, but seeing it emerge after all this time... He wonders... ]
[ Weiss' Arma Gigas now has a mind of its own in this world, but it's still connected to the former heiress who seems so distraught. Were it to show any expressions, it would look worried. Alas, it only gives off a cold aura as it observes its master grieve. It may have been the one responsible for putting her to sleep for a day, but it certainly was unaware of what would happen and what Weiss would experience. ]
Cloud... [ She should calm down. Crying's never been something she liked doing; it showed weakness. And so, she takes a deep breath, forcing herself to stop crying and to calm her breathing. The hopelessness she feels is making her more emotional than usual. Another time, when she realises what she asks of him, she would apologise profusely for asking too much. ] I'll do anything. Please don't go.
[ Finally, she stops tugging on his shirt, instead moving to wrap her arms around him back. This is comforting and soothing, and his presence is something she appreciates so much. He's here. He's keeping his promise. Most importantly, in spite of all the hardships, she's able to rely on him. He's become her strength and her light. That's why he can't go. Because even if she's lost her home and her teammates, she wants to believe that she still has him.
She stays silent for a while after that, focusing on her breathing until she knows she's done crying. If Cloud is here, then she can process things with him. Everything is still frightening, and what she'd witnessed in the midst of battle isn't lost on her just yet, but... she isn't in Remnant now. What was that they agreed upon before? That it's alright to be afraid, so long as your fear motivates you, not rules you. With a deep breath, she exhales and speaks, finally.
And no, she hasn't let go of him. ]
Everything is falling apart...
Cloud... [ She should calm down. Crying's never been something she liked doing; it showed weakness. And so, she takes a deep breath, forcing herself to stop crying and to calm her breathing. The hopelessness she feels is making her more emotional than usual. Another time, when she realises what she asks of him, she would apologise profusely for asking too much. ] I'll do anything. Please don't go.
[ Finally, she stops tugging on his shirt, instead moving to wrap her arms around him back. This is comforting and soothing, and his presence is something she appreciates so much. He's here. He's keeping his promise. Most importantly, in spite of all the hardships, she's able to rely on him. He's become her strength and her light. That's why he can't go. Because even if she's lost her home and her teammates, she wants to believe that she still has him.
She stays silent for a while after that, focusing on her breathing until she knows she's done crying. If Cloud is here, then she can process things with him. Everything is still frightening, and what she'd witnessed in the midst of battle isn't lost on her just yet, but... she isn't in Remnant now. What was that they agreed upon before? That it's alright to be afraid, so long as your fear motivates you, not rules you. With a deep breath, she exhales and speaks, finally.
And no, she hasn't let go of him. ]
Everything is falling apart...
[ A sunken look returns to his face when she breathes deep against him, only to plead him to never go. That she would do anything so long as he didn't leave. He doesn't even know what happened yet and he can feel his heart breaking. His eyes don't well up with tears, but he can feel his lip quiver, prompting him to attempt to steel himself once more. Only for him to damn-near break all over again. She never reacted this strongly when she woke from her nightmares... Every time he mentally tells himself to not put too much thought into it. Every time he opens his mouth like he's attempting to say something...anything to comfort her and tell her what she saw wasn't real... ]
.....
[ His breath finally breaks with a light tremor, despite being the light that she so desperately clings to. Cloud bows his head when she finally speaks. Everything is falling apart. What's happened in Atlas must have taken a turn for the worst. He wants to draw back again and tell her to let him know what happened. To get the whole story no matter how painful it was. But...what good would that do? They're here in Avalon. And not where Cinder was.
He doesn't let go of her either, only finally relaxing as he sinks down on his knees some more with her. ]
Weiss...
.....
[ His breath finally breaks with a light tremor, despite being the light that she so desperately clings to. Cloud bows his head when she finally speaks. Everything is falling apart. What's happened in Atlas must have taken a turn for the worst. He wants to draw back again and tell her to let him know what happened. To get the whole story no matter how painful it was. But...what good would that do? They're here in Avalon. And not where Cinder was.
He doesn't let go of her either, only finally relaxing as he sinks down on his knees some more with her. ]
Weiss...
[ She follows, sinking back down on the mattress. When she looks at him, eyes full of worry and fear, so red from all the crying, she finds herself observing him a bit more thoroughly. His eyes don't shine as brightly anymore... but it's still his eyes. And she can tell that he wants to know more, to ask more, but he's stopping himself from doing so. ]
It... [ Now, she looks to the side, where the Arma Gigas is. It lets out a grunt before disappearing like glitter in the air, little specks of light until it's just gone. ] It all feels so real... I was there, back in Remnant, in Atlas.
[ But she's not quite sure, either. She looks back at Cloud, more confused than scared now. ]
Like... time was moving. And— [ Because time was moving, that means the war with Salem continued. They encountered a foe they wish were dead. At least, Weiss thinks so now. ] Cloud, Winter stood up against General Ironwood.
[ As she tries to recall everything—her new memories— this particular bit seems to be important to note. She even huffs out a shaky laugh when she tells him that. Good news in the midst of it all. And as she tries to process everything one by one, possibly not in order, she shares what's on her mind. ]
She and I were on the same page all along.
It... [ Now, she looks to the side, where the Arma Gigas is. It lets out a grunt before disappearing like glitter in the air, little specks of light until it's just gone. ] It all feels so real... I was there, back in Remnant, in Atlas.
[ But she's not quite sure, either. She looks back at Cloud, more confused than scared now. ]
Like... time was moving. And— [ Because time was moving, that means the war with Salem continued. They encountered a foe they wish were dead. At least, Weiss thinks so now. ] Cloud, Winter stood up against General Ironwood.
[ As she tries to recall everything—her new memories— this particular bit seems to be important to note. She even huffs out a shaky laugh when she tells him that. Good news in the midst of it all. And as she tries to process everything one by one, possibly not in order, she shares what's on her mind. ]
She and I were on the same page all along.
[ He waits. Quietly watching her as the back of his fingers lift up the side of her cheek, brushing away whatever stray tears dare to fall. Whether she tells him yet or not, he just wants her to find comfort and solace. She's hurt... He's never seen her so hurt before. As horrific as it was surviving the Lightless mission with her, this is a level of pain that he practically feels emanating from her in waves. Yet she perseveres anyway. She carries on through everything that hurts to tell him what's happened.
And just like that, some of his worse fears are realized. She did return to Atlas again. Just like the time she'd disappeared in Prismatica for the first time. Judging by her words choked between sobs, something happened to Ruby. Cinder was there and now everything was falling apart. He didn't dare to ask or speak up as to the fate of the others. Instead, his expression falters as he looks to her with disbelief. It couldn't be... Every time it looks like he's about to speak up, his voice fails him because he's scared of what might come out. For the first time in a long time, he feels...
Stuck. Trapped.
When Aerith died, everyone grieved but carried on for the sake of the Planet. There was very little time to console one another, not with Cloud's psyche on the edge of oblivion to begin with and having to continue leading the party. In the moment, he could find solace in fighting together with everyone. But with Weiss...for all their talks of finally being together in either world, all they have are stories and visions of their world to share. He wasn't there. Cloud couldn't fight to stop what happened in Atlas. What happened to Ruby, Yang, Blake, and— ]
I'm...
[ "Cloud," ]
...?
[ His name upon her lips calls him back from his inner lament. Even when she's hurting so badly, she anchors him all the more. She starts recalling her sister. But what surprises him the most is the slight shift in her words. The positives. The revelation that despite the two parting ways as potential enemies, she came around and stood up to Ironwood after all. Then she laughs in his arms, reflecting on how they were on the same page. Somehow...this is what finally breaks him. This is what gets him to crack despite how strong he wanted to portray himself to be.
He huffs, shakily as he can't help but smile. It's weak. So very weak, and he doesn't have all the details of her visit back to Atlas, but the fact she focused on something so important to her and kept her going...
Cloud couldn't be any more proud of her. Rather than pull her in for another tight hug this time, he bows his head against hers, closing his eyes as he sighs once more, still smiling as he fights to keep it together for her. Their foreheads meet as he speaks softly with a lift of hope in his voice again. He's glad to know that when everything else was falling apart around her, no matter what... ]
I knew she would.
And just like that, some of his worse fears are realized. She did return to Atlas again. Just like the time she'd disappeared in Prismatica for the first time. Judging by her words choked between sobs, something happened to Ruby. Cinder was there and now everything was falling apart. He didn't dare to ask or speak up as to the fate of the others. Instead, his expression falters as he looks to her with disbelief. It couldn't be... Every time it looks like he's about to speak up, his voice fails him because he's scared of what might come out. For the first time in a long time, he feels...
Stuck. Trapped.
When Aerith died, everyone grieved but carried on for the sake of the Planet. There was very little time to console one another, not with Cloud's psyche on the edge of oblivion to begin with and having to continue leading the party. In the moment, he could find solace in fighting together with everyone. But with Weiss...for all their talks of finally being together in either world, all they have are stories and visions of their world to share. He wasn't there. Cloud couldn't fight to stop what happened in Atlas. What happened to Ruby, Yang, Blake, and— ]
I'm...
[ "Cloud," ]
...?
[ His name upon her lips calls him back from his inner lament. Even when she's hurting so badly, she anchors him all the more. She starts recalling her sister. But what surprises him the most is the slight shift in her words. The positives. The revelation that despite the two parting ways as potential enemies, she came around and stood up to Ironwood after all. Then she laughs in his arms, reflecting on how they were on the same page. Somehow...this is what finally breaks him. This is what gets him to crack despite how strong he wanted to portray himself to be.
He huffs, shakily as he can't help but smile. It's weak. So very weak, and he doesn't have all the details of her visit back to Atlas, but the fact she focused on something so important to her and kept her going...
Cloud couldn't be any more proud of her. Rather than pull her in for another tight hug this time, he bows his head against hers, closing his eyes as he sighs once more, still smiling as he fights to keep it together for her. Their foreheads meet as he speaks softly with a lift of hope in his voice again. He's glad to know that when everything else was falling apart around her, no matter what... ]
I knew she would.
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