[ 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... ]
[ 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. ]
[ 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... ]
[ 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.
[ 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. ]
[ 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. ]
[ 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... ]
[ But Winter came through. Cloud wasn't wrong, that time he consoled her when Winter had disappeared from Lunatia. That was the same night when they watched a movie together and she fell asleep. She woke up because she couldn't feel him anymore, and for the first time, was scared that he would leave her. ]
You were right.
[ And this is why Weiss relies on Cloud a lot. It's why she trusts him with all her heart, and why she needs him most. He made a promise to be with her always, regardless of any challenges that may come. All the comfort he's provided her even though she didn't ask for it are all appreciated. She really can't imagine a life without him around anymore. What would it be like if she became sad and upset and he wasn't there to ground her? When everything seems to bleak, he'd always come through. She knows with all her heart that whatever terrible things happen to her that he would be there to pick her up.
She hopes that he'll still pick her up now. ]
We all thought that we wouldn't be able to save everyone. General Ironwood was committed to destroying Mantle to save Atlas... but we were able to come up with a plan that would save both the people of both cities. Even if it meant we would let Atlas fall on Mantle. We had portals open up all over the cities that would lead to another realm, then take them to Vacuo through another portal.
[ A brief pause. Cloud may even be able to hear the smile in her voice with how it lifts ever so slightly. Everything must sound ridiculous without context, but to the frazzled Huntress, it all makes sense in her head. ]
Winter helped. Whitley too. But... things didn't go as well as we hoped it would. I— we didn't expect Cinder and Neopolitan to show up while everyone was being evacuated. And... we were losing.
[ Another pause, because she pulls away this time to rest her hands on her lap. She'd managed to stay calm for a few minutes, but trying to explain it all now is bringing back her fear and anger. ]
Neopolitan attacked Ruby, but Yang blocked her, and she fell. Now she's... she's gone.
[ Slowly, she looks up at Cloud, asking him with her eyes if Yang is really gone or not. He doesn't know the answer, but she doesn't want the truth that she knows to be what she'd believe in. Because that means— ]
[ He listens, hanging onto every word, even if he continues to wait for the tragedy to unfold. It all makes sense to him. Get the people to safety as Salem makes her presence known. Opposing General Ironwood wherein he's lost sight of the people that need protecting. Even the idea of portals opening up so that they could evacuate everyone sounds like a miracle in of itself. It almost makes him wish he could forget that there was more to unveil, sounding so hopeful through it all up until she finally drops the news. Whilst there's a faint smile in her voice, a lift of hope...it's dashed in brutal fashion as Cinder and Neo are dropped.
Neo sided with Cinder after all... Something about that was enough to make his heart sink further. Much in the same vein that he made it clear that when it came to fighting and picking a side, he would always choose Weiss, Ruby and her teammates, he still formed a link with the two would-be enemies. But the disappointment doesn't stay for very long. No...instead, his hold of her tenses slightly, only for Weiss to draw away to put her hands in her lap. But as she tells of Neopolitan attacking Ruby. Of Yang sacrificing herself to save her little sister...
Fell...as in fell to their— ]
.....
[ Cloud can feel his teeth grit behind tight lips, his gaze faltering from hers. Without anybody to hold, his hands clench into fists. ]
Cinder...
[ He took no pleasure in "killing" her in Weiss' nightmare. But that wasn't enough. How many more people needed to suffer before they stopped? Before somebody finally stopped them? Her voice brings him back when she speaks of Blake and Ruby again, his breath hitching. But Weiss wouldn't be met with outright morose when their eyes meet again. He speaks with his gaze so strongly, seeking hers to find what she's looking for. And he speaks with his heart, as defiant and unyielding as the girl across him now. ]
No. It's not— [ His breath clips. ] It can't be too late.
[ See, Weiss would like to believe that because it's Cloud saying it, but... she's still terrified. She doesn't start crying again, but it looks like she's about to with how upset she looks. And a part of her is hesitant to tell him what she's actually thinking, apart from everything that's happened to Atlas, to Mantle, her friends and family... That she's next. They all went down one by one, and there's that little bit of her that fears for the worst. They're all going to fall. ]
That's all I remember... I was back here after that.
[ She looks away, her opposite hand finding its way to rest on her elbow as she lowers her head in shame. Ruby had been doing everything she could to make things right for the people of Atlas and Mantle. All of them have made great sacrifices in order to get here. Just when they thought they still had hope? It was all dashed and plucked away right before their very eyes. ]
I... I know that there would be dangers and risks to take as a Huntress, but I still wanted to be one. And I can't give up now.
[ But... when her eyes flicker back to his, only to avert her gaze once again, she's not really sure what to say anymore. Everything is falling apart. She's not sure what to do. Her teammates are gone and she barely has any Aura left. It's just her, Jaune, and Penny left.
Slowly, she draws her knees up so she can wrap her arms around it. ]
[ Cloud couldn't fault her. Not for a single instance. Every time he looks at her, like she's prepared to break all over again, it fills him with a swelling sense of frustration. Frustration in that he doesn't have an immediate answer for her this time. Before, when she first returned to Atlas and spoke of possibly being on the opposite side of her sister, he held faith and that no matter what happened, he was going to have her back. When Majestas shackled her mind, he found an answer in her very own enemy when it came to saving her. As the terror of losing him anchored her down in her dreams, Cloud found his answer in entering the deepest reaches of her heart and bringing her back from her nightmares.
But now? ]
.....
[ Now... ]
... ....
[ No. Reaching into his pocket as she withdraws into herself, he pulls out the family brooch that was entrusted to him. When he thought he'd lost her upon coming to Avalon, all he needed to do was look at this and it promised him a way back to her. Just like when he entered her nightmare and followed its warmth like a guide. This. This is what represents all the trust and love she's placed in him. He wouldn't just be betraying her by shutting down now, hard as it is... He'd be betraying himself. So when she asks him what she's supposed to do? ]
You cry... [ He softly reflects on his own pain and what it felt like when all hope was gone. Despite it all, he never drowned. He kept moving despite of himself. Despite how his fingers tingled. How his mouth went dry. How his eyes burned with tears. ] You cry. Then get angry. Then pick yourself up and keep going.
[ She hasn't drawn far enough back that he can't reach to her, hand upon her shoulder as his tone firms once more, determination building. ]
More importantly, [ as she said, ] You don't give up.
[ Cloud had plenty of time to think while he listened to her and absorbed her words. He was a leader. Whether he thought of it or not, he had to act like one. But he wouldn't dare lead her into the dark. Not after everything they've promised to one another and overcome. ]
Take a look around you, Weiss. Look where you are. [ A beat, the timbre of his voice carrying a lift of hope to it. ] Look where we are. You came from Remnant and I came from Gaia. We fought for Prismatica for over a year and still found a way back to each other. In another world on top of that.
If we can all come together across different times and worlds, we can figure something out for you and everyone else on Remnant.
[ She listens, laughing softly when he tells her to cry and get angry. Normally, she wouldn't want to be that upset around him as much, because then he'd worry too! But at this time, when she feels so low and he tells her that it's okay to feel these things? It's difficult not to feel amazed and happy. But as he continues to speak, the more at ease she seems. When he places her hands on her shoulders, he'd feel it, too. ]
Yeah... [ But, that's more her agreeing to him. When she speaks again, her tone is more firm and confident. ] Yes, you're right. Of- Of course you are.
[ He always is! And the more Cloud's words sink in her mind and in her heart, the more the understands what she has to do. Where she is now isn't just a place for restoring the multiverse and whatnot. She can use this world to find better opportunities for Remnant. What was once a gaze of hopelessness slowly begins to brighten, thanks to the light that she needs in her life so much. ]
Then, it could be similar to the plan that we'd come up with. A portal from here that leads to that other world, and it would open up to another time, maybe even before Cinder entered and— [ If you don't stop her now... well, you know the drill. ] Oh, that sounds so difficult to do... I wonder if the king would have a clue? I- I should probably ask the network, too! Maybe others have already experienced something similar. I could also get more ideas— oh, but Ruby and the others can't find out. They just can't. And—
[ Even if he can't think of a full-out plan yet, Cloud was always good at thinking on the fly. Seeing her spirits lift and her brilliant mind turning for it, he can't help but half smile at her for it all. It's all still really dreadful. And deep down, he knows this won't stop him from thinking the worst and how desperately he wants to prevent it from happening... The very idea that left alone with Cinder with everyone else having fallen worries him still. But it's the one thing that he doesn't voice. Not when the two are already in the middle of talking through just how there may be hope after all. ]
[ "A portal from here that leads to that other world," ]
Right.
[ He doesn't entirely get it. But-
"-maybe even before Cinder and—" ]
Mmhm.
[ Instead of stopping her this time, he listens. He listens and nods and lets her talk. ...well. He still does...up until he realizes that he's triggered another run-on ramble. Before he'd do things like cut her off by waving a fork of hotpot meat in her face. Or put a hand to her mouth. Or speak over her. Or kiss her. But this time, as he can't help himself, the tension he didn't realize was building in his shoulders finally leaving as he suddenly pulls her into a close embrace. Not as tight as they'd desperately held one another before. She can keep going if she wants to even. Cloud just wants her to stay as strong as she's made him. ]
One step at a time. [ Instead of feeling those cold, dreadful chills, all he feels is warmth between them as he sighs with relief. Relief that she's okay and still here. ] One step together.
[ They'll protect everyone. Ruby, Blake, Yang, Winter, her family, his family... They won't stop fighting. ]
[ If she weren't in the middle of rambling in excitement, she wouldn't have gotten as surprised as she is now. Tense for only a short moment, she finds herself hugging him back as she puts more of her weight on him. She's smiling now, grateful for his words, the hope and love he's given her. And when she rests her chin on his shoulder, she tells him: ]
Yeah... [ And again, after a sigh of relief. ] Yeah.
Thank you, Cloud. You're the best.
[ Let her stay here a little while longer, though. There is so much comfort in being held by him. ]
[ He doesn't on moving until she's ready to. It's only been a day, but he'll eventually have to get her something to eat. It doesn't matter the time of day it is. After all, she missed out on crepes in bed. The rare time he intentionally does something extremely smooth... ]
Hmm. [ Where would she be without him? He doesn't want to imagine being on either side without knowing the other. She's changed him in ways he didn't even think were possible. His one hand returns to the back of her hair, stroking against her head as the softened smile can practically be felt in his voice. ] Still well off. I'm just a heckuva bonus.
[ He's kidding, of course. He knows he's of more value than that. If he wasn't so keen on helping her get up and out of bed in a bit, he would contemplate laying down with her. But he's going to follow Weiss' lead; whatever she wants to talk about or do, he's going to support. That's his role right now. ]
I love you. [ She's laughing and crying at the same time and just— How can she even repay him for everything he's done for her? ] I love you so much.
[ But holding him tight like this isn't enough. She pulls back only so she can look at him again. The tears falling down her face are happy tears now, at least. Her hand lifts to touch his cheek, to get his full attention, and unintentionally, it gets her heart racing. Just like the first time confessed her feelings for him, her voice is soft and affectionate. Everything is just for him. ]
I love you, Cloud.
[ Everything. Including the silent promises she makes to him, and the promises that she's made that he already knows about— that she'll do anything to get back to him, to keep herself close to him, and to make him happy. Always. No matter what. Weiss won't accept anything less.
Now, come to think of it... how much did she miss? She looks a bit confused again, but not as worried as she was initially. ]
[ Hearing her say she loves him despite the fact he started it gets his cheeks feeling heated again. For all the times she worries about him getting tired of her, Cloud never finds it old to hear those words coming out of her mouth. It makes him think that he's done something right. That he's still heading in the right direction with her.
Doing right by her like he said he wanted to when they first got together.
Before he can so much as have a chance at brushing away the happier tears that stream down her face, she's touching his cheek and soothing him further than before. The edges of his mind still can't let go of the fact that if it wasn't for Salem. If it wasn't for Cinder or (disappointingly) Neo, that she wouldn't be hurting as badly as she was now. Instead, he leans into her hand, his own settling back into his lap as he gently smiles back at her.
That's the spirit, Weiss. Don't give up. He won't if you won't. ]
...
[ Then she asks how long she's been 'gone' for, and his expression doesn't shift all too much, too relieved and focused on the future to think of how worried he was at first. ]
Just about a day. I... —
[ Oh. Oh no. Here it comes. ]
Iii- [ S'cuse him while he blinks and yawns. Talking about sleep and days reminds him of the fact that he's gotten very little rest since she was sleeping. ] -was gonna fix you breakfast before I realized you were out.
I was gonna let the others know if you didn't wake up soon.
[ So, things are making some sense. Like what she should do now and all that. She's calm now. One thing she's yet to make sense of is what happened to her. In Prismatica, she'd disappeared for a couple of days before finding herself back in that world with new memories. Time moved forward for her. But now— ]
[ He rubs the back of his neck. How does he put this... ]
After we went to bed, you just...never woke up. I thought you were still tired till I came back and you didn't respond. You've been in bed this whole time.
[ Let her just take a moment to process this. It definitely sounds unusual, and the longer she mulls over what happened, the more she realises how scary that could have been. If Cloud didn't wake up no matter how many times she's shook him, then she would be worried to death.
What did Cloud do when he found out? How did he feel? Like that time he left her a message when she disappeared in Lunatia, she made him sad and worried. And— her gaze is soft when she looks up at him. Until it slowly contorts into a look of worry and apology. ]
Did you eat at all yesterday? Did you drink anything? [ She'd been talking about herself and her own problems this whole time that she didn't even check on him once she was calm. It's a little too late now, but doing the "emergency thing" is something she wants to do for him. ] You didn't get into a fight, did you? Have you gotten any rest?
[ He doesn't want her worrying any more than she has to. ... not that there's too much that he can do about it, nor would he blame her for it either. He put her through hell after he sacrificed himself during their Lightless mission. Ever since then, he'd grounded himself while still protecting more of those closest to him.
So he lets her sort herself through her feelings, even letting her asking as many questions as she wants to about him. This was about her and what they'll be able to do about the fate of her world down the road...but- He can't help it. When she mentions him getting into a fight, he huffs and cracks a smile. ]
I fought sleep if that counts.
[ Smartass remark aside though, he finally gets off his knees and sits down on his butt in front of her, leaning back on his hands. ]
And I ate. A little. Couldn't let the crepes go to waste... [ Elaine wouldn't have let him starve either. For the most part, what happened to Weiss has laid on the downlow. He was not looking forward to telling Ruby or Tifa about what happened if she didn't wake up. ] I've...just been here.
[ He knows her. He knows the fixed expression of concern and building 'sorry's waiting to bubble to the surface, so, hopefully before she can say anything, ]
No being sorry. You couldn't help it. [ Sighing gently through his nose, there's more life again in those deeper blues of his. ] I'm just glad I have you back.
[ Weiss is going to be worried about him no matter what. Even if they were only just friends, she'd still worry for him in this manner. He's seen how worked up she got when his Aura got unlocked and the story behind it. Now that they have a more intimate relationship, though, it's more than just worry. She cares for him, more than she does for herself. And after all the sacrifices he's made just for her, caring for him and making sure he's okay and healthy and happy is the least she can do. ]
I'm— [ Cut short when he tells her that she's not allowed to be sorry. But... look at her blue innocent eyes? 🥺 Can't she say sorry just once?
She reaches to him, placing her hand atop his. ] I know the sun is up, but won't you get some rest now? Even just for a short while?
[ Weiss won't be going back to sleep anytime soon. And tonight, Cloud might have to calm her down and make her go to sleep because she'd be afraid not to wake up again and go back to the current reality of Remnant. She doesn't want to go back just yet. She needs to do something.
For now, if Cloud does sleep? She'll check the kitchen and see if she can make some stew... ]
[ JUST- ... Aww damn it. If she says it, he won't stop her. It's a formality at this point in their relationship. He can't help but cant his head a little bit, weakly smiling at her because he knows that she's already gotten him beat. No matter what she says or does to him now, he won't be able to say no... ]
Stop that...
[ Then she surprises him all over again, crawling the little distance needed up to him so her hand rests atop his. His breath catches in his throat, bright blue eyes meeting as she pleads him to rest now. The look on his face now is no different from those times that she'd captivated him in the past- even before they were dating or he realized he was falling for her. Precious moments like this, so beautiful and precious to him that he would shield her from the world a hundred times over if it meant she'd keep smiling for him.
If they were on Prismatica still, the feeling of her smaller hand atop his would have sent a bolstered boost of pleasure through him. Instead, all he can think of is how slender it feels atop his. It faintly trembles beneath hers- not because he's tired, but because of just how raw and real this all was to him. She's so close to him that if he wanted to, he could sit right up and pull her into his lap all over again. He could embrace her and feel her hair threading through his fingers as he revels in the fact that he still has her.
He was taken from his world once, only to find her. He was taken from the 'home' he made on Prismatica and from the comfort he felt in being with Weiss...only to find her. Again. Her hand atop of his, their eyes meeting... It's just like he's said before. She'd make him fall for her over and over. ]
Yeah...
[ He wants to kiss her. He wants to hold her and kiss her so badly right now, but he can't help but feel like he still has to keep looking after her. After the turmoil she awoke from... They have to keep looking out for one another wherever they can. Cloud means it when he says he'll rest for her. But first, ]
[ She seems content with his response. That's a good dog! No resisting rest. ]
Good. Maybe we can have breakfast together before resting.
[ And as she says that, she inches closer until she's right in front of him, knees folded and seated on the backs of her legs. Their fingers lace together as she gives his hand a squeeze. ]
[ The very second that Weiss' hand squeezes his, he leans in to give her the first kiss she's gotten since waking up. Something so simple that got him flustered even just thinking about came so naturally to him at this stage. He wouldn't trade this for anything. ]
Fine. [ Carefully, he tugs on her as he starts sliding off the bed. They'll go down together like this. ] I'll coach if you want it.
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
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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.
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[ 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. ]
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......?
[ 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... ]
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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...
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.....
[ 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...
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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.
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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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[ But Winter came through. Cloud wasn't wrong, that time he consoled her when Winter had disappeared from Lunatia. That was the same night when they watched a movie together and she fell asleep. She woke up because she couldn't feel him anymore, and for the first time, was scared that he would leave her. ]
You were right.
[ And this is why Weiss relies on Cloud a lot. It's why she trusts him with all her heart, and why she needs him most. He made a promise to be with her always, regardless of any challenges that may come. All the comfort he's provided her even though she didn't ask for it are all appreciated. She really can't imagine a life without him around anymore. What would it be like if she became sad and upset and he wasn't there to ground her? When everything seems to bleak, he'd always come through. She knows with all her heart that whatever terrible things happen to her that he would be there to pick her up.
She hopes that he'll still pick her up now. ]
We all thought that we wouldn't be able to save everyone. General Ironwood was committed to destroying Mantle to save Atlas... but we were able to come up with a plan that would save both the people of both cities. Even if it meant we would let Atlas fall on Mantle. We had portals open up all over the cities that would lead to another realm, then take them to Vacuo through another portal.
[ A brief pause. Cloud may even be able to hear the smile in her voice with how it lifts ever so slightly. Everything must sound ridiculous without context, but to the frazzled Huntress, it all makes sense in her head. ]
Winter helped. Whitley too. But... things didn't go as well as we hoped it would. I— we didn't expect Cinder and Neopolitan to show up while everyone was being evacuated. And... we were losing.
[ Another pause, because she pulls away this time to rest her hands on her lap. She'd managed to stay calm for a few minutes, but trying to explain it all now is bringing back her fear and anger. ]
Neopolitan attacked Ruby, but Yang blocked her, and she fell. Now she's... she's gone.
[ Slowly, she looks up at Cloud, asking him with her eyes if Yang is really gone or not. He doesn't know the answer, but she doesn't want the truth that she knows to be what she'd believe in. Because that means— ]
Blake and Ruby, too...
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Neo sided with Cinder after all... Something about that was enough to make his heart sink further. Much in the same vein that he made it clear that when it came to fighting and picking a side, he would always choose Weiss, Ruby and her teammates, he still formed a link with the two would-be enemies. But the disappointment doesn't stay for very long. No...instead, his hold of her tenses slightly, only for Weiss to draw away to put her hands in her lap. But as she tells of Neopolitan attacking Ruby. Of Yang sacrificing herself to save her little sister...
Fell...as in fell to their— ]
.....
[ Cloud can feel his teeth grit behind tight lips, his gaze faltering from hers. Without anybody to hold, his hands clench into fists. ]
Cinder...
[ He took no pleasure in "killing" her in Weiss' nightmare. But that wasn't enough. How many more people needed to suffer before they stopped? Before somebody finally stopped them? Her voice brings him back when she speaks of Blake and Ruby again, his breath hitching. But Weiss wouldn't be met with outright morose when their eyes meet again. He speaks with his gaze so strongly, seeking hers to find what she's looking for. And he speaks with his heart, as defiant and unyielding as the girl across him now. ]
No. It's not— [ His breath clips. ] It can't be too late.
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That's all I remember... I was back here after that.
[ She looks away, her opposite hand finding its way to rest on her elbow as she lowers her head in shame. Ruby had been doing everything she could to make things right for the people of Atlas and Mantle. All of them have made great sacrifices in order to get here. Just when they thought they still had hope? It was all dashed and plucked away right before their very eyes. ]
I... I know that there would be dangers and risks to take as a Huntress, but I still wanted to be one. And I can't give up now.
[ But... when her eyes flicker back to his, only to avert her gaze once again, she's not really sure what to say anymore. Everything is falling apart. She's not sure what to do. Her teammates are gone and she barely has any Aura left. It's just her, Jaune, and Penny left.
Slowly, she draws her knees up so she can wrap her arms around it. ]
What do I even do now?
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But now? ]
.....
[ Now... ]
... ....
[ No. Reaching into his pocket as she withdraws into herself, he pulls out the family brooch that was entrusted to him. When he thought he'd lost her upon coming to Avalon, all he needed to do was look at this and it promised him a way back to her. Just like when he entered her nightmare and followed its warmth like a guide. This. This is what represents all the trust and love she's placed in him. He wouldn't just be betraying her by shutting down now, hard as it is... He'd be betraying himself. So when she asks him what she's supposed to do? ]
You cry... [ He softly reflects on his own pain and what it felt like when all hope was gone. Despite it all, he never drowned. He kept moving despite of himself. Despite how his fingers tingled. How his mouth went dry. How his eyes burned with tears. ] You cry. Then get angry. Then pick yourself up and keep going.
[ She hasn't drawn far enough back that he can't reach to her, hand upon her shoulder as his tone firms once more, determination building. ]
More importantly, [ as she said, ] You don't give up.
[ Cloud had plenty of time to think while he listened to her and absorbed her words. He was a leader. Whether he thought of it or not, he had to act like one. But he wouldn't dare lead her into the dark. Not after everything they've promised to one another and overcome. ]
Take a look around you, Weiss. Look where you are. [ A beat, the timbre of his voice carrying a lift of hope to it. ] Look where we are. You came from Remnant and I came from Gaia. We fought for Prismatica for over a year and still found a way back to each other. In another world on top of that.
If we can all come together across different times and worlds, we can figure something out for you and everyone else on Remnant.
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Yeah... [ But, that's more her agreeing to him. When she speaks again, her tone is more firm and confident. ] Yes, you're right. Of- Of course you are.
[ He always is! And the more Cloud's words sink in her mind and in her heart, the more the understands what she has to do. Where she is now isn't just a place for restoring the multiverse and whatnot. She can use this world to find better opportunities for Remnant. What was once a gaze of hopelessness slowly begins to brighten, thanks to the light that she needs in her life so much. ]
Then, it could be similar to the plan that we'd come up with. A portal from here that leads to that other world, and it would open up to another time, maybe even before Cinder entered and— [ If you don't stop her now... well, you know the drill. ] Oh, that sounds so difficult to do... I wonder if the king would have a clue? I- I should probably ask the network, too! Maybe others have already experienced something similar. I could also get more ideas— oh, but Ruby and the others can't find out. They just can't. And—
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[ "A portal from here that leads to that other world," ]
Right.
[ He doesn't entirely get it. But-
"-maybe even before Cinder and—" ]
Mmhm.
[ Instead of stopping her this time, he listens. He listens and nods and lets her talk. ...well. He still does...up until he realizes that he's triggered another run-on ramble. Before he'd do things like cut her off by waving a fork of hotpot meat in her face. Or put a hand to her mouth. Or speak over her. Or kiss her. But this time, as he can't help himself, the tension he didn't realize was building in his shoulders finally leaving as he suddenly pulls her into a close embrace. Not as tight as they'd desperately held one another before. She can keep going if she wants to even. Cloud just wants her to stay as strong as she's made him. ]
One step at a time. [ Instead of feeling those cold, dreadful chills, all he feels is warmth between them as he sighs with relief. Relief that she's okay and still here. ] One step together.
[ They'll protect everyone. Ruby, Blake, Yang, Winter, her family, his family... They won't stop fighting. ]
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Yeah... [ And again, after a sigh of relief. ] Yeah.
Thank you, Cloud. You're the best.
[ Let her stay here a little while longer, though. There is so much comfort in being held by him. ]
Where would I be without you?
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That's my line.
[ He doesn't on moving until she's ready to. It's only been a day, but he'll eventually have to get her something to eat. It doesn't matter the time of day it is. After all, she missed out on crepes in bed.
The rare time he intentionally does something extremely smooth...]Hmm. [ Where would she be without him? He doesn't want to imagine being on either side without knowing the other. She's changed him in ways he didn't even think were possible. His one hand returns to the back of her hair, stroking against her head as the softened smile can practically be felt in his voice. ] Still well off. I'm just a heckuva bonus.
[ He's kidding, of course. He knows he's of more value than that. If he wasn't so keen on helping her get up and out of bed in a bit, he would contemplate laying down with her. But he's going to follow Weiss' lead; whatever she wants to talk about or do, he's going to support. That's his role right now. ]
Love you.
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[ But holding him tight like this isn't enough. She pulls back only so she can look at him again. The tears falling down her face are happy tears now, at least. Her hand lifts to touch his cheek, to get his full attention, and unintentionally, it gets her heart racing. Just like the first time confessed her feelings for him, her voice is soft and affectionate. Everything is just for him. ]
I love you, Cloud.
[ Everything. Including the silent promises she makes to him, and the promises that she's made that he already knows about— that she'll do anything to get back to him, to keep herself close to him, and to make him happy. Always. No matter what. Weiss won't accept anything less.
Now, come to think of it... how much did she miss? She looks a bit confused again, but not as worried as she was initially. ]
How... long was I gone for? Three days?
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Doing right by her like he said he wanted to when they first got together.
Before he can so much as have a chance at brushing away the happier tears that stream down her face, she's touching his cheek and soothing him further than before. The edges of his mind still can't let go of the fact that if it wasn't for Salem. If it wasn't for Cinder or (disappointingly) Neo, that she wouldn't be hurting as badly as she was now. Instead, he leans into her hand, his own settling back into his lap as he gently smiles back at her.
That's the spirit, Weiss. Don't give up. He won't if you won't. ]
...
[ Then she asks how long she's been 'gone' for, and his expression doesn't shift all too much, too relieved and focused on the future to think of how worried he was at first. ]
Just about a day. I... —
[ Oh. Oh no. Here it comes. ]
Iii- [ S'cuse him while he blinks and yawns. Talking about sleep and days reminds him of the fact that he's gotten very little rest since she was sleeping. ] -was gonna fix you breakfast before I realized you were out.
I was gonna let the others know if you didn't wake up soon.
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[ So, things are making some sense. Like what she should do now and all that. She's calm now. One thing she's yet to make sense of is what happened to her. In Prismatica, she'd disappeared for a couple of days before finding herself back in that world with new memories. Time moved forward for her. But now— ]
What do you mean by that?
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[ He rubs the back of his neck. How does he put this... ]
After we went to bed, you just...never woke up. I thought you were still tired till I came back and you didn't respond. You've been in bed this whole time.
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[ Let her just take a moment to process this. It definitely sounds unusual, and the longer she mulls over what happened, the more she realises how scary that could have been. If Cloud didn't wake up no matter how many times she's shook him, then she would be worried to death.
What did Cloud do when he found out? How did he feel? Like that time he left her a message when she disappeared in Lunatia, she made him sad and worried. And— her gaze is soft when she looks up at him. Until it slowly contorts into a look of worry and apology. ]
Did you eat at all yesterday? Did you drink anything? [ She'd been talking about herself and her own problems this whole time that she didn't even check on him once she was calm. It's a little too late now, but doing the "emergency thing" is something she wants to do for him. ] You didn't get into a fight, did you? Have you gotten any rest?
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So he lets her sort herself through her feelings, even letting her asking as many questions as she wants to about him. This was about her and what they'll be able to do about the fate of her world down the road...but- He can't help it. When she mentions him getting into a fight, he huffs and cracks a smile. ]
I fought sleep if that counts.
[ Smartass remark aside though, he finally gets off his knees and sits down on his butt in front of her, leaning back on his hands. ]
And I ate. A little. Couldn't let the crepes go to waste... [ Elaine wouldn't have let him starve either. For the most part, what happened to Weiss has laid on the downlow. He was not looking forward to telling Ruby or Tifa about what happened if she didn't wake up. ] I've...just been here.
[ He knows her. He knows the fixed expression of concern and building 'sorry's waiting to bubble to the surface, so, hopefully before she can say anything, ]
No being sorry. You couldn't help it. [ Sighing gently through his nose, there's more life again in those deeper blues of his. ] I'm just glad I have you back.
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[ Weiss is going to be worried about him no matter what. Even if they were only just friends, she'd still worry for him in this manner. He's seen how worked up she got when his Aura got unlocked and the story behind it. Now that they have a more intimate relationship, though, it's more than just worry. She cares for him, more than she does for herself. And after all the sacrifices he's made just for her, caring for him and making sure he's okay and healthy and happy is the least she can do. ]
I'm— [ Cut short when he tells her that she's not allowed to be sorry. But... look at her blue innocent eyes? 🥺 Can't she say sorry just once?
She reaches to him, placing her hand atop his. ] I know the sun is up, but won't you get some rest now? Even just for a short while?
[ Weiss won't be going back to sleep anytime soon. And tonight, Cloud might have to calm her down and make her go to sleep because she'd be afraid not to wake up again and go back to the current reality of Remnant. She doesn't want to go back just yet. She needs to do something.
For now, if Cloud does sleep? She'll check the kitchen and see if she can make some stew... ]
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Stop that...
[ Then she surprises him all over again, crawling the little distance needed up to him so her hand rests atop his. His breath catches in his throat, bright blue eyes meeting as she pleads him to rest now. The look on his face now is no different from those times that she'd captivated him in the past- even before they were dating or he realized he was falling for her. Precious moments like this, so beautiful and precious to him that he would shield her from the world a hundred times over if it meant she'd keep smiling for him.
If they were on Prismatica still, the feeling of her smaller hand atop his would have sent a bolstered boost of pleasure through him. Instead, all he can think of is how slender it feels atop his. It faintly trembles beneath hers- not because he's tired, but because of just how raw and real this all was to him. She's so close to him that if he wanted to, he could sit right up and pull her into his lap all over again. He could embrace her and feel her hair threading through his fingers as he revels in the fact that he still has her.
He was taken from his world once, only to find her. He was taken from the 'home' he made on Prismatica and from the comfort he felt in being with Weiss...only to find her. Again. Her hand atop of his, their eyes meeting... It's just like he's said before. She'd make him fall for her over and over. ]
Yeah...
[ He wants to kiss her. He wants to hold her and kiss her so badly right now, but he can't help but feel like he still has to keep looking after her. After the turmoil she awoke from... They have to keep looking out for one another wherever they can. Cloud means it when he says he'll rest for her. But first, ]
You feeling hungry first?
[ If she was, he'll rest his eyes after. ]
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Good. Maybe we can have breakfast together before resting.
[ And as she says that, she inches closer until she's right in front of him, knees folded and seated on the backs of her legs. Their fingers lace together as she gives his hand a squeeze. ]
You're not allowed to help.
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Fine. [ Carefully, he tugs on her as he starts sliding off the bed. They'll go down together like this. ] I'll coach if you want it.
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