Post by Spectre on Feb 5, 2017 21:18:51 GMT -6
Nearly two weeks pass since the battle with Torchwick, Its currently Friday.
Brad is in the Dust Workshop, He has Cardin's mace on his workbench. It looks significantly upgraded, the crystal in its tip is glowing slightly and the flanges are a lighter color, getting progressively whiter towards the edges.
Cardin walks into the shop.
Cardin:*Awkwardly* So Uhh...Hows my mace?
Brad:Just putting on some finishing touches. *Turns off his blowtorch* I think you'll be pleased with it. *hands it to him*
Cardin:Huh.*examines it*
Brad: I've replaced the old dust crystal in the shaft so you should be able to channel your aura into it more effectively, I also trimmed the flanges and reinforced them with white tungsten to give them a sharper edge without taking away any of the weight or redistributing it too radically.
Cardin:*test swinging it* Still feels the same.
Brad: That was my intention, since I figured you were use to the weight and range. Anyho, the sharper edges should give your weapon much better armor piercing qualities, I wouldn't be surprised if you could chop through the carapace of a larger Deathstalker.
Cardin:I...Thanks. I figured you'd sabotage it or something, we aren't exactly close.
Brad:Well I won't allow personal grudges get in the way of professionalism, I was assigned your weapon and I poured my heart into it. Only real way to do things.
Cardin:Not bad. Thanks Brad, you're alright. Can't wait to see what this bad boy can do in sparring today!*Holds it up*
Brad:Of course, just don't misuse my hard work.
Cedric:*Rings an alarm* Alright students, class is over. Simmer down the forges and head out for sparring!
BDRS, RWBY, JNPR, and Crimson/Anemone are sitting down together, watching the spars. Pyrrha and CRDL are fighting 4v1.
Crimson:Man, she is GOOD.
Anemone:Well she IS Pyrrha Nikos!
Brad:She is a truly beautiful fighter, she carries herself with a dynamic blend of brutality and grace. *turns to Jaune* Remarkable, isn't she?
Jaune:Wha? Oh, yeah! Pyrrhas great!
Brad:*light, annoyed growl*
Rennay:*Noticing Cardin causing alot of collateral damage with his mace* Hey uhh...Cardin's actually hitting like a train even though hes missing, and his stupid mace doesn't look so stupid now.
Brad:Yes, the dust crystal within trails down to the grip and draws from his aura to enhance his blows. Seems like I did a fine job with it.
Rennay:Wait, WHAT!?
Brad:I was assigned his weapon in the Dust Workshop, wasn't exactly my personal pick but a job is a job.
Rennay:PYRRHA COULD GET SERIOUSLY HURT BY THAT THING!
Cardin:*swiftly raises his weapon back to strike at Pyrrha, he accidentally brains Dove who is trying to regain his footing behind him*
Dove's Aura depletes completely as he sprawls into a wall.
Cardin:*looks at his mace rather awestruck* HOLY CRAP! *looks at Dove* Are you ok!?
Dove:*unconcious, has a small trail of blood seeping from his head*....*Body creaks as he gives a slow, agonized thumbs up*
Cardin:*Growls and gets back to fighting*
Rennay:*cringe*
Brad:*Whispers* The finest weapon in the world still won't teach you how to aim and coordinate with your teammates.
Pyrrha unleashes an air combo on Cardin, then catches him in her signature "chokehold" and spirals downward, slamming him into the ground and depleting his aura with a flip-kick.
The lights come on.
Glynda:And that's the match!
Cardin:*wearily* Lucky Shot..*collapses*
Russel and Skylark pick up their downed teammates and help each other get to the infirmary.
Glynda:*looks at Pyrrha* Well done Miss Nikos! You should have no trouble qualifying for the Vytal tournament.
Pyrrha:Thank you professor.
Glynda:We still have time for one more sparring match. Any volunteers?..Miss Belladonna? You've been rather docile for the past few classes, why don't you-
Mercury:*raises hand* I'll do it.
Glynda:Mercury is it? very well, lets find you an opponent...
Mercury:Actually..*points at Pyrrha* I wanna fight her.
Pyrrha:Me?
Glynda:I'm afraid Miss Nikos has just finished a match, I suggest you find another partner.
Pyrrha:No, its fine! I'd be happy to oblige.
Mercury heads down to the arena.
Ruby:*looks at Emerald* Never seen you guys fight before. Team CMEN right?
Emerald:*annoyed* CRME. Pronounced "Cream".
Rennay:EWWWW! Rubes!
Ruby:*panicked* What'd I say?!
Yang:Right! So, whats the R stand for?
Emerald:Roman.
Ruby:Like Torchwick?
Emerald:Well its not her real name, she uses multiples. Shes right next to me but you probably don't recognize her, she has this tendency to change her appearance constantly. Its a weird habit.
Neo:*stares down Ruby and smirks, shes currently wearing a suit with a leafy motif and a long green ponytail*
Ruby:That her?
Emerald:Yes! Right now her names Ivy.
Ruby:Please to meet you!
Neo:*waves*
Emerald:She doesn't talk much. Like, ever.
Yang:*turns to Crimson and Anemone* Speaking of team names, whats yours?
Crimson:CSAA. Pronounced "Caesar".
Yang:Cool!
Ruby:Where's the rest of your teammates?
Crimson:*points to Anemone* You're looking at her.
Weiss:Another two-hunter team huh? Those are pretty rare.
Crimson:Yeah, but easier to work with than four people.
Brad:Indeed! *Pulls Rennay over to him in a side hug* Much easier to coordinate when you don't have to spread your focus out four ways, we read eachother so well we're practically telepathic.
Rennay:*looks down and sighs*
Anemone:By the way, whats your team name?
Brad:BDRS. Pronounced "Badarse".
Crimson:Seriously?
Brad:Dead serious. I think its a bit silly myself but...Well, we all agree our headmaster is a bit on the eccentric side.
Yang:Don't be so modest, you two earned that name!
Rennay:*perks up* Well, during our trial we DID kill a silverback beringaral.
Brad:Its "Beringal".
Rennay:Not my point! its a big deadly monkey monster!
Brad:Actually its a gorilla, which is an ape. Monkeys have tails.
Rennay:STILL NOT MY POINT!
Mercury and Pyrrha are fighting.
Ruby:*To Emerald* Hey, Mercury's doing pretty good!
Emerald:*Rolls eyes*
Rennay:*Grumbles* Kinda smug if you ask me. Still, hes doing better than team CRDL(pronouncing it "Curdle").
The fight is intense but rather brief, Mercury relents after Pyrrha uses her semblance on him.
Mercury:I forfeit!
Pyrrha:You..Don't even want to try?
Mercury:Whats the point? *Shrugs* You're a world-renowned fighter, we're obviously leagues apart.
Glynda:Very well, Pyrrha Nikos is the victor...Again. Next time you may want to think a little harder before picking an opponent.
Mercury:*Waves back* I'll be sure to keep that in mind.
The class bell rings.
Glynda:And we're out of time. Remember, the dance is this weekend but you have your first mission on Monday! I will not accept any excuses.
Everyone leaves the classroom. Blake is lagging behind the group.
Sun: Hey Blake! *suddenly grabs her by the shoulder*
Brad:*growl*
Sun:*lets go and does the "backing off" hand gesture* You uhh, doing ok?
Blake:*irritably* I'm fine.
Sun:So I hear there's this dance going on this weekend... ah, sounds pretty lame, but you and me, I'm thinking, not as lame, huh?
Blake:*snappy* What?
Sun:The dance, this weekend! You wanna go or what?
Blake:I don't have time for some stupid dance. I thought YOU of all people would get that! *Storms off*
Sun:*sinks from his rejection*
Brad:*Watches her walk off, visibly concerned, then looks at Sun*
Sun:Don't look at me, I haven't done anything!
Brad: No, its not you. She's been on a downward spiral since the fight with Torchwick. Hardly eats, sleeps, studies...I've tried talking to her about it but she's been extremely stubborn.
Sun:*sulks*
Brad:Erm, actually I need to ask you a question.
Sun:Shoot.
Brad:How were you able to just up and ask her like that?
Sun:Not sure what you mean by that.
Brad:*Weakly* I have someone I've been trying to ask for days but...I can't muster the courage.
Sun:Well I grew up in Vacuo, never know what tomorrow is gonna bring. If you got something to say to someone, you just say it. Every day might be your last chance!
Brad:Makes sense.
Sun:Especially if you're gonna try and be a huntsman. You know we're gonna be getting our first missions next Monday, might never get another chance!
Brad:Well its not the most pleasant trail of thought but its true.
Sun:Yep! Rejection sucks, but life goes on. Or ends. Whatever comes first! My advice, just go ask her. Even if she says no, atleast you can say you tried and move on! As for me, I'm gonna go grab a post-rejection banana split! *Waves as he heads towards his teammates*
Brad:*Waves back*
Late that night, Brad has thoroughly paced the entire academy multiple times, he finally makes a stop in the cafeteria where he is eating a colossal bowl of wheaties.
Brad:*stuffing his helm*
Pyrrha walks in. She's wearing her pajamas, a Pumpkin Pete hoody a couple sizes too large and a pair of red shorts.
Pyrrha:*sits across from Brad, she lowers her face into the table, obviously depressed* Hello again...
Brad:Pyrrha? *moves his bowl to the side* Whats wrong?
Pyrrha:I could ask you the same question, that's an incredibly big bowl of wheaties you're eating there.
Brad:*Lays his chin down on the table to get to her level, trying to turn attention away from himself* Jaune?
Pyrrha:Yes.
Brad:I see. *Puts his hand on hers* Want to talk about it?
Pyrrha:*weakly* He's head over heels for Weiss.
Brad:I've noticed that. Weiss is actually a nice girl once you get to know her but she's rather....High Maintenance? Here are my thoughts on the matter. Jaune has been fixated on her since the start of the Semester, he probably just hasn't noticed any other girls! Namely, you.
Pyrrha:*lightly knocks her head against the table*
Brad:Have you just tried asking him? I don't doubt he's going to try to ask Weiss to the dance and will likely get shot down, knowing Jaune he'll do something silly and grandiose like serenade her with a guitar, which won't help his case. This could be a good opportunity-
Pyrrha:I can't do that, I'll feel like I'm scavenging from his grief like some kind of emotional vulture!
Brad:You don't have to be blunt about it! Simply be there for him, comfort him, ease the invitation somewhere in the conversation.
Pyrrha:I can't do that...
Brad:Yes you can!
Pyrrha:..*thinks*...Fine, I'll ask him. But only if you ask Yang!
Brad:*snorts milk* WHAT!?
Pyrrha:Don't act so surprised. The dance is coming up Sunday night, you've been pacing the school grounds by yourself, and you're shoveling in your favorite comfort food.
Brad:But..Yang is...I can't!
Pyrrha:Why not?
Brad:..Look at her! I just don't think I'd be any good for her, know what I mean?
Pyrrha:*Sigh* Brad, that's the exact same problem I have!
Brad:What do you mean?
Pyrrha:You may not have noticed but my face is on the front of cereal boxes, I'm a celebrity! When you get put up on a pedestal like I have, it becomes impossible to start any meaningful relationship! Everyone thinks I'm too good for them. Believe it or not nobody, not a single soul from all of the schools meeting up here, has asked me to the dance.
Brad:...I'm sorry, I had no idea.
Pyrrha:Well now you know, its really lonely at the top. To make matters worse, everyone I have been in a relationship with his just wanted to bask in my glory, like I'm some sort of trophy! Jaune isn't like that..I mean, he didn't even know who I was when we first met and he just treats me like..
Brad:He just treats you like Pyrrha.
Pyrrha:Exactly my point! Its also why our friendship works. What I'm getting at is, Yang may not have my sort of fame, but she is a star pupil here and at the top of the sparring class. I think all the boys here are too intimidated to ask her out, I believe you'd impress her if you stepped up.
Brad:Really?....Never thought of it like that.
Pyrrha:So you ask out Yang, and I ask out Jaune. We'll help each other out. *holds out her hand* Deal?
Brad:*Shakes her hand* Deal, and if it works for neither of us I suppose us rejects could share a dance.
Pyrrha:*Smiles* I'll wear steel-toed heels just in case.
The next morning,
Brad:*Sleeping in the corner of the room*
Someone playfully knocks on his chestplate.
Brad:Bwah!? I'm awake!
Yang:Hellooooo~
Brad:Yang! I'm surprised to see you awake this early.
Yang:I'm surprised to see you sleeping in this late!
Brad:Wait, what!?
Yang:Yeah, its almost noon.
Brad:Thats...Unusual. I didn't sleep to well last night. Been up late err...Just a bit excited for the dance, I've....Ehh..I've never been to such an event.
Yang:Well you should be excited! Since CFVY's mission is taking alot longer than expected Weiss and I are in charge, this dance is gonna be happenin'!
Brad:"Happenin'"? I see, sounds like it'll be a thrill!
Yang:Anyway, there's gonna be alot of heavy lifting I'd like some help with. *Heads out of the room, then looks back in* Comin'?
Brad:I'd be delighted! *briskly follows her*
Brad is helping Yang move around a gigantic stereo system. Neither of them look particularly troubled by the weight.
Yang:Little bit to the left!
Brad:Of course. *Does so*
The two softly lower the stereo.
Yang:Thanks for helping me out with the stereos Brad. Kind of awkward to handle 'em by myself because of how wide they are! Plus miss OCD here wouldn't let me hear the end of it if they weren't set straight.
Weiss:Hey! Its not OCD, its called being organized!
Brad:Its no trouble Yang, any time.
Ruby:*Slumped on the table*
Rennay:*On the same table, napping*
Weiss:*Presents Ruby with two shades of white* I need you to pick a tablecloth.
Ruby:Aren't they both the same?
Weiss:Ugh, I don't know why I asked!...Rennay!
Rennay:*Snooze bubble pops* Huh!?...Oh, I wouldn't go with either ivory or snow. In order to better compliment the shading of the tables and chairs along with the lighting you seem to be going for I would go with a seashell white, perhaps lavender blush. *Goes back to napping*
Weiss:*blank eyes*
Rennay:*light snoring*
Yang:*Shrugs* Atlas girls!
Brad:*chuckles*
Yang:*looks at Ruby* So! You pick out a dress?
Ruby:Whats the point? Who cares about the dance if Blake isn't going.
Yang:Don't worry, she's going. WEISS! I thought we agreed, no doilies!
Weiss:*Points* If I don't get doilies, you don't get fog machines!
Crimson, Neptune, Anemone, and Sun enter the room.
Neptune:Your dance is gonna have fog machines?
Weiss:*Sweetly* We were thinking about it..
Neptune:Pretty cool!
Sun:So, you ladies all excited for dress-up?
Ruby:Pft, yeah right...
Yang:Laugh all you want, I'll be turning heads tomorrow!
Weiss:What are you four wearing?
Sun:Uhh..This?
Neptune:*Covers his mouth* Ignore him, for he knows not what he says!
Sun:*Covers Neptune's face* Hey, I may have moved to Mistral but I grew up in Vacuo. Not exactly a shirt and tie kind of place!
Crimson:He's not wrong, one of the reasons I love it there!
Sun:Vacuan pride!
The two share a fist bump.
Neptune:*looks at Brad* What are you gonna wear?
Brad:*paralyzed* Uh-
Yang:*Pats him on the shoulder* He's gonna wear his armor! Brad here never leaves uniform.
Brad:*looks downward and scratches his head*
Neptune:Rest in peace feet...
Crimson:Come to think of it, I don't think I've ever seen him outside of his armor.
Anemone:I'm sure he has his reasons.
Sun:So, what does Blake think of all this? Is she still being, y'know...Blakey?
Weiss:Obviously.
Ruby:I can't think of a way to make her change her mind.
Yang:Trust me. Blake WILL be at the dance tomorrow.
Brad:*Concerned* I hope so, she desperately needs to unwind. Seeing her like this is giving me a heartache.
Yang:If you pick things up from here, I'll hop on it right now. Just follow Weiss' instructions.
Brad:Of course, please help her posthaste!
Yang:I'm on it! Now where'd I put my laser pointer...*Walks off*
Crimson:Did she just say "Laser Pointer"?
Rennay:*Snickers in her sleep*
Ruby:Isn't that kinda racist?
Anemone:Believe it or not alot of faunus crack jokes like that with each other all the time and don't really mind humans getting in on the fun, I've heard my fair share of fish jokes.
Yang:*leans in the doorway* Just don't overdo the puns around Weiss, you might get SCHOOLED!
Weiss:*groan*
Anemone:Sorry I didn't know, I'm still a fish out of water here!
Weiss:UGH!
Rennay:*evidently having a pun-induced nightmare*
Yang:Careful anemone, I think she's this close to kicking your bass!
Anemone:Ugh, that was terrible. When it comes to fish puns, let me fin-nish them!
Weiss:WOULD YOU GET GOING ALREADY!?
Yang:Alright, cutting the carp! *leaves*
Anemone:*giggle*
Weiss:*Sighs* Brad, could you help me set out the tables?
Brad:On it.
Later that night,
Rennay is asleep as usual, Brad is staring rather forlornly out the window.
Brad:*Sighs* (Thats right...Even if I do manage to ask her I'm not going to be able to wear my armor unless I want to crush her feet, and I'd probably end up injuring several other people.)
There's a light knock on the BDRS dorm.
Brad:*opens the door and backs away in surprise*....Oh?!
Neptune:'Sup?
Brad:Neptune?
Neptune:We got an errand to run! *Grabs Brad by the arm and drags him out of the room*
The two are walking down a street in Vale.
Brad:*Awkwardly silent*..So...Uhh...Where are we going?
Neptune:We are gonna pick you out a nice suit! I know just the place.
Brad:Suit!? But I-
Netune:Look dude, I know you want to ask Yang out to that dance. But that armor? Gotta take it off sometime. You'll end up hurting her, and nothing turns off ladies more than a broke foot.
Brad:I can't, I-
Neptune:Whatever weird stuff you got going on under there, I can help.
Brad:I'm not worried about people seeing me outside of my armor, its just I hate being touched and it gives me a sense of security!
Neptune:Dances are all about touching my big pink friend!
Brad:*Sternly* Its technically "salmon"! And I don't think I'd mind with Yang, its just other people!
Neptune:Nobodies gonna be randomly reaching out to grab you! I don't know why you hate being touched and I'm not gonna try and dive nose-first into your reasoning, but I think this could be a good opportunity to try and overcome that fear.
Brad:I don't know what I'll do if I'm startled, I don't know if you've seen my semblance go haywire but its not exactly a pretty sight!
Neptune turns around, puts his hands on Brad's shoulders and leans in.
Brad:....
Neptune:See? Not hurting you. I don't intend to either. Even without the armor on.
Brad:.................
Neptune:Follow me. We're gonna help you get through this. *lets go of his shoulders and walks ahead*
Brad:......Alright. *Follows*
The two arrive at a rather high-end looking clothing store, there's a well-maintained garden around it.
Brad:...This place looks a little high-end, are you sure we can afford it?
Neptune:Calling in a favor. Won a huge bet against the proprietors son in a RTG game-
A sprinkler turns on the lawn.
Neptune:GYAH! *narrowly avoids the spray and clings to Brad's neck*
Brad:What...On earth?
Neptune:JUST CARRY ME TO THE DOOR AND DON'T LET ME GET WET!
Brad:..Its just a sprinkler! What could possibly-
Neptune:I just had this outfit cleaned!
Brad:..Its water, its not going to hurt it!
Neptune:.....
Brad:Oh, you're hydrophobic.
Neptune:I know, yeah. Ironic. Kind of an ongoing theme with my family. My dad Gaia hates getting dirty, and my mom Chronas has no sense of punctuality and can't tell time on a wall clock. I also got four brothers. Jupiter who's afraid of thunder, Pluto who's thanatophobic, Mars gets nauseous the sight of blood, and Venus is gynophobic, he won't get near any women besides mom.
Brad:I understand.
Brad carries Neptune into the store, much to the awkward stares of several patrons.
Neptune:*Coughs* You can put me down now.
Brad:...RIGHT! *Does so*
Neptune:*Walks over to the counter without breaking stride* 'Sup?
Dusty:*rises from behind the counter* Hmmm!
Brad:What the-Old man Dusty!?
Dusty:Mmmhmm.
Neptune:He works here part-time. Anyway...*Hands a card and a predominantly pink sketch to Dusty*
Dusty:*looks at it* Hm!
Neptune:*points to Brad* Whip him up a nice suit.
Dusty Nods and takes Brad to the back room, the sound of his armor hitting the floor is heard along with some uncomfortable grunts.
Neptune:*Stands outside the door*
Brad:*grunts* Hey, ease up on the contact, this isn't a date! So Neptune, if you don't mind me asking how did you earn a free commission from this place?
Neptune:Well I entered a private high stakes RTG tournament back in Haven. The proprieter's son attends the academy there and I took an unorthodox bet against him.
Brad:And?
Neptune:I learned his dad owned one of the finest clothing stores in Vale and he agreed to get me a free commission here if I won!
Brad:And if you lost..?
Neptune:I'd take the ice bucket challenge and have it uploaded to the worldwide web.
Brad:That seems very- Oooooh, water.
Neptune:Yeah, I wasn't exactly on the best terms with him and he wanted to see me publicly squirm.
Brad:Ah..Good thing you won!
Neptune:I'll say. I thought it was a stupid idea at first but the rest of my team egged me on. I think its because they wanted to see me get soaked.
Brad:Charming.
Neptune:*laughs* Yep. "With friends like these", am I right? Seriously speaking though, we'd walk through fire for eachother. They were just being guys.
Brad:I suppose I never really found it possible that sort of mockery could be done on friendly terms. Then again my circle of friends is rather small and I've lived in a cave until I was found and brought to polite society about a year ago.
Neptune:Seriously?
Brad:Yes.
Neptune:That's kinda hard to believe. I mean, don't take this the wrong way but you strike me as being waaaaay too eloquent and smart to have grown up in the wild, alot of people seem to be confused by some of the big words you use.
Brad:*Bitterly* What can I say, I'm a quick learner.
Neptune:..Are you ok?
Brad:Just really, really uncomfortable. Anyway, whats your angle in all this? Why are you helping me? Random bout of altruism?
Neptune:Eh, just wanted to help you out. I Know what its like having confidence issues and figured you could use a little coaching, plus I didn't really intend on using this commission for anything, already got a suit.
Brad:Well my problem isn't really "confidence" when it comes to the armor. Still that does explain your rather overwhelming sense of style and your mannerisms, I think you're giving some of the other men an inferiority complex.
Neptune:Really? That is NOT my intention!
Brad:Well you do draw some envious glares. Even I'll admit you're "Cool".
Neptune:Thanks, I try hard. Really hard.
Dusty:HM!
Brad:Done? Thank goodness!
Brad swiftly puts his armor on and steps out of the backroom.
Neptune:How'd it go?
Brad:My skins going to be crawling all night.
Dusty hands Brad a small device with a timer on it.
Brad:So, it'll be ready for me before the dance tomorrow?
Dusty:*Nods affirmatively*
Brad:Good, I'll come by and pick it up when the timer goes off. *puts it in his chestplate*
Neptune:Lets head back to Beacon, you got a big day tomorrow!
Brad:*exhales* That I do.
Neptune:OH! Dusty!
Dusty: Mmm?
Neptune:Could you ah...Turn off the sprinklers till we leave? My uhh...Friend here, his armor might rust.
Brad:Yes, rusts in a heartbeat!
Dusty:*nods*
Brad and Neptune head out of the store and walk down the path;
Neptune:Thanks for the save there dude.
Brad:No worries, I understand what its like having a phobia. Might seem trivial to others but its quite a big deal for us-
The sprinklers suddenly turn on, Neptune lets out the most high pitched scream one could imagine and jumps into Brad's arms again.
Brad:Oh dear.
Dusty:*friendly wave, along with an ambiguous grin*
Neptune:*Shudders* LETSGOBACKTOBEACONALREADY!!
The next evening;
Brad is sitting on his bed staring at his new outfit, which is hanging from the BDRS closet in a protective bag. Daisy is lying down next to him with Clover curled up in her back.
Rennay:*Grunts as she leans into the room, wearing a dress and heels* I HATE these things! No idea how mum could wear 'em...Coming Big Guy? Everyone's there now.
Brad:In a bit.
Rennay:*Deadpan* You're not coming are you?
Brad:*Hisses through his teeth*
Rennay:I know you haven't asked Yang yet, she doesn't have a date if that's what you're worried about.
Brad:Its..I...
Rennay:You know, Blake's there! Dancing with the Monkey king. Might wanna make sure he doesn't try to cop a feel!
Brad:She is? I saw her napping earlier, glad to see she's finally slowed down...And I don't think Sun would do that.
Rennay:Well...Y'know Neptune did you a big favor yesterday. Wouldn't exactly be polite to just sit it out.
Brad:*Looks downward, dejectedly* Mmmmmmph.
Rennay:*Lets out an annoyed groan and leaves the room* I'll bring you back some punch.
Brad:*Silently stares*
Daisy:*Whine*
Brad:*Pets her head* I know girl.
Daisy:*Growls and headbutts him, knocking him on the floor near the closet*
Brad:Ow! What the hell Daisy-
Daisy angrily barks and corners him under the outfit. She smacks her paw against the wall and it falls from its hanger, landing on him.
Daisy:*low growl*
Brad:....*sigh of resignation*
Down in the ballroom.
Rennay:*on the balcony overlooking the dance floor, walking towards Yang and Ruby* HATE....HATE...HATE...HEELS...
Ruby:*Snidely* Join the club, I'm the president and sending you a formal invitation!
Yang:*laughs* You two are adorable!
Rennay:*Groans* I'M NOT ADORABLE. I'm angry!
Yang:Whats wrong?
Rennay:*Sighs, calming down* Yang, I need a favor-
Brad:..Hello, you all look very lovely this evening.
Yang/Ruby/Rennay:BRAD!?
Brad is outside of his armor, and wearing a rather dapper pink suit. Without his armor he looks nearly harmless despite his size, he's a fair-featured, light-skinned "pretty" man with long, reddish-pink hair kept in a ponytail. His eyes are a vivid bluish-green coloration and although he is undeniably muscular, a coating of fat makes him look rather "poofy". He also has a bishie sparkle hovering around his head.
Rennay:........
Brad:Well. Here I am! Took everything I had to get myself moving but I'm here.
*Silence*
Brad:Ahem...*Shifts a bang of hair out of his face and looks at Yang* Yang Xiao Long, you look..Absolutely radiant tonight. *holds out his hand* May I have the next dance?
Yang:*laughs* Duh! Why didn't you ask me sooner?
Brad:*glass breaking noise, his eyes widen* What?
Yang:C'mon! *crosses her arm with his and pulls him to the dance floor*
Rennay:*Grins and gives Brad a thumbs up*
Brad:*Sheepishly grins and returns the gesture*
The two begin dancing, although Yang is leading Brad manages to keep pace fairly well.
Yang:Not a bad dancer jungle boy!
Brad:I errr...Read alot of books. Studied up on it before the dance just in case I got the courage to ask you.
Yang: Must be one helluva book!
Crimson:*sitting down next to Anemone at one of the tables* Is that Brad?
Anemone:Looks like it!
Crimson:Not exactly what I was expecting him to look like.
Anemone:That armor is definitely misleading.
On the balcony.
Rennay:*Sighs in a friendly tone* I'm so proud of him!
Ruby...Hey have you seen Jaune?
Rennay:No I-
*Door opens, people start laughing*
Rennay:...*completely loses it and tumbles off the balcony and onto a table, still laughing*
Pyrrha:Jaune!?
Jaune:*Wearing a dress* Eh, a promise is a promise!
Pyrrha:*Trying to hold back laughter* You...You didn't have to! *laughs*
Jaune: Hey, an Arc never goes back on his word! *Extends hand* Now do you wanna stand there and laugh at me, or do you wanna dance?
Pyrrha:I would LOVE to dance!
Jaune literally sweeps her off her feet, much to her surprise.
Nora: Ren. This... is... happening!
Ren:*Confused* Wait, what is happening? *Pulled by Nora*
JNPR engages in their bizarrely elaborate dance routine.
Everyone stops dancing and watches.
Anemone:*To Crimson* Why is Jaune wearing a dress?
Crimson:Probably lost a bet!
Brad:*Turns to Yang* Are you seeing this!?
Yang:JNPR must really have their act together, no way my team could spontaneously pull this off!
JNPR stops their dance and everyone goes back with their partners.
Yang:*offers her hand* Another dance?
Brad:*Takes it* Yes sir!
Everyone dances some more, Yang and Brad move close to Jaune and Pyrrha.
Pyrrha:*looks at Brad* Well hello again handsome stranger!
Brad:*whips his hair to the side* Oh stop!
Jaune:Wait, BRAD!?
Brad:In the flesh.
Pyrrha:Yang, mind if we trade for a minute?
Yang:Sure, maybe they'll evolve!
The two swap partners, Brad going with Pyrrha and Jaune is taken by Yang, he's alarmed by her strength.
Pyrrha:*Quietly, excitedly* We did it!!!
Brad:I know! Feels like I've walked over a mountain.
Pyrrha:I just want you to know that I am SO proud of you! I know it couldn't have been easy taking your armor off.
Brad:Thank you Pyrrha, I am to. I mean; proud of you. But also proud of myself!..I'm still probably going to be wearing it most of the time.
Pyrrha:Well, I think we've talked long enough. Looks like Yang's ready to make a switch.
Brad:Righto!
The four seamlessly incorporate a partner switch into their dance.
Brad:Hello Yang!
Yang:*laughs* Dancing with Jaune is like whirling around a scarecrow!
Brad:Well not every girl in here is strong enough to punch the arm off of an Atlesian Paladin, you know!
Yang:Hmmm...Point taken! Gotta say Brad, I wasn't expecting you to be a...
Nora:*moves behind Yang and excitably mutters* BBM!
Yang:That works! You got the little twinkle and everything. *Curiously pokes it, it evades her*
Brad:*Rolls eyes* Don't remind me, it won't go away!
Yang:I think its cute!
Brad:*rumbling noise as he blushes slightly* Errr, ahem, if you say so, then its cute!
The music slows down.
Yang pulls Brad closer to her.
Yang:Slow dance time!
Brad:*Gags as his right eye bulges a bit out of socket* (NOT HERE, NOT NOW!!) *prods it in* Hmmmmm! Right...
Yang:You know, I'm happy you asked me.
Brad:Really?
Yang:Yeah, took some serious balls! All the guys here are intimidated by me and team FRAT has more teeth than brain cells. Well, except maybe Arnie, but thats 'cause I knocked out about half of 'em!
Brad:*chuckles* Well I'm certainly glad that I asked you.
Weiss/Rennay:*laughing*
Neptune:*Trying to dance, though its more along the lines of organized flailing with the occasional bout of twerking* Hey, I'm TRYING!
FRAT enters the dance hall.
Rick:*notices Brad dancing with Yang* Hey bros, whose that?!
Tim:Don't know, but hes dippin' his fingers into our kewlaid!
Brad:*twirling Yang* It's amazing how well you move in heels!
Arnie:That voice...Its the armor guy from the gym!
Frank:HIM!? I can't believe we've been sca-err, tactically avoiding THAT! What a total-
*Ozpin's Office*
Ozpin:*Sigh* What are we going to do with you Miss Schlitz?
Rennay:But sir, they called Brad a-
Ozpin:*Calmly* I know, and while that is unacceptable breaking Frank's jaw in three places is too extreme of a reaction to simple name calling.
*At the infirmary*
Frank:*Lying in bed, his jaw is held in place with some hideous looking headgear*
Arnie:Dude, you got REKT!
Frank:*Pained groan*
*Back at the office*
Rennay:*groans*
Ozpin:Well, I suppose since you did it on your friend's behalf, I'll let this slide. I think the fact Frank will probably develop a crush on you is punishment enough.
Rennay:*"Peanuts" groan* AAUGH!!!
Brad is in the Dust Workshop, He has Cardin's mace on his workbench. It looks significantly upgraded, the crystal in its tip is glowing slightly and the flanges are a lighter color, getting progressively whiter towards the edges.
Cardin walks into the shop.
Cardin:*Awkwardly* So Uhh...Hows my mace?
Brad:Just putting on some finishing touches. *Turns off his blowtorch* I think you'll be pleased with it. *hands it to him*
Cardin:Huh.*examines it*
Brad: I've replaced the old dust crystal in the shaft so you should be able to channel your aura into it more effectively, I also trimmed the flanges and reinforced them with white tungsten to give them a sharper edge without taking away any of the weight or redistributing it too radically.
Cardin:*test swinging it* Still feels the same.
Brad: That was my intention, since I figured you were use to the weight and range. Anyho, the sharper edges should give your weapon much better armor piercing qualities, I wouldn't be surprised if you could chop through the carapace of a larger Deathstalker.
Cardin:I...Thanks. I figured you'd sabotage it or something, we aren't exactly close.
Brad:Well I won't allow personal grudges get in the way of professionalism, I was assigned your weapon and I poured my heart into it. Only real way to do things.
Cardin:Not bad. Thanks Brad, you're alright. Can't wait to see what this bad boy can do in sparring today!*Holds it up*
Brad:Of course, just don't misuse my hard work.
Cedric:*Rings an alarm* Alright students, class is over. Simmer down the forges and head out for sparring!
BDRS, RWBY, JNPR, and Crimson/Anemone are sitting down together, watching the spars. Pyrrha and CRDL are fighting 4v1.
Crimson:Man, she is GOOD.
Anemone:Well she IS Pyrrha Nikos!
Brad:She is a truly beautiful fighter, she carries herself with a dynamic blend of brutality and grace. *turns to Jaune* Remarkable, isn't she?
Jaune:Wha? Oh, yeah! Pyrrhas great!
Brad:*light, annoyed growl*
Rennay:*Noticing Cardin causing alot of collateral damage with his mace* Hey uhh...Cardin's actually hitting like a train even though hes missing, and his stupid mace doesn't look so stupid now.
Brad:Yes, the dust crystal within trails down to the grip and draws from his aura to enhance his blows. Seems like I did a fine job with it.
Rennay:Wait, WHAT!?
Brad:I was assigned his weapon in the Dust Workshop, wasn't exactly my personal pick but a job is a job.
Rennay:PYRRHA COULD GET SERIOUSLY HURT BY THAT THING!
Cardin:*swiftly raises his weapon back to strike at Pyrrha, he accidentally brains Dove who is trying to regain his footing behind him*
Dove's Aura depletes completely as he sprawls into a wall.
Cardin:*looks at his mace rather awestruck* HOLY CRAP! *looks at Dove* Are you ok!?
Dove:*unconcious, has a small trail of blood seeping from his head*....*Body creaks as he gives a slow, agonized thumbs up*
Cardin:*Growls and gets back to fighting*
Rennay:*cringe*
Brad:*Whispers* The finest weapon in the world still won't teach you how to aim and coordinate with your teammates.
Pyrrha unleashes an air combo on Cardin, then catches him in her signature "chokehold" and spirals downward, slamming him into the ground and depleting his aura with a flip-kick.
The lights come on.
Glynda:And that's the match!
Cardin:*wearily* Lucky Shot..*collapses*
Russel and Skylark pick up their downed teammates and help each other get to the infirmary.
Glynda:*looks at Pyrrha* Well done Miss Nikos! You should have no trouble qualifying for the Vytal tournament.
Pyrrha:Thank you professor.
Glynda:We still have time for one more sparring match. Any volunteers?..Miss Belladonna? You've been rather docile for the past few classes, why don't you-
Mercury:*raises hand* I'll do it.
Glynda:Mercury is it? very well, lets find you an opponent...
Mercury:Actually..*points at Pyrrha* I wanna fight her.
Pyrrha:Me?
Glynda:I'm afraid Miss Nikos has just finished a match, I suggest you find another partner.
Pyrrha:No, its fine! I'd be happy to oblige.
Mercury heads down to the arena.
Ruby:*looks at Emerald* Never seen you guys fight before. Team CMEN right?
Emerald:*annoyed* CRME. Pronounced "Cream".
Rennay:EWWWW! Rubes!
Ruby:*panicked* What'd I say?!
Yang:Right! So, whats the R stand for?
Emerald:Roman.
Ruby:Like Torchwick?
Emerald:Well its not her real name, she uses multiples. Shes right next to me but you probably don't recognize her, she has this tendency to change her appearance constantly. Its a weird habit.
Neo:*stares down Ruby and smirks, shes currently wearing a suit with a leafy motif and a long green ponytail*
Ruby:That her?
Emerald:Yes! Right now her names Ivy.
Ruby:Please to meet you!
Neo:*waves*
Emerald:She doesn't talk much. Like, ever.
Yang:*turns to Crimson and Anemone* Speaking of team names, whats yours?
Crimson:CSAA. Pronounced "Caesar".
Yang:Cool!
Ruby:Where's the rest of your teammates?
Crimson:*points to Anemone* You're looking at her.
Weiss:Another two-hunter team huh? Those are pretty rare.
Crimson:Yeah, but easier to work with than four people.
Brad:Indeed! *Pulls Rennay over to him in a side hug* Much easier to coordinate when you don't have to spread your focus out four ways, we read eachother so well we're practically telepathic.
Rennay:*looks down and sighs*
Anemone:By the way, whats your team name?
Brad:BDRS. Pronounced "Badarse".
Crimson:Seriously?
Brad:Dead serious. I think its a bit silly myself but...Well, we all agree our headmaster is a bit on the eccentric side.
Yang:Don't be so modest, you two earned that name!
Rennay:*perks up* Well, during our trial we DID kill a silverback beringaral.
Brad:Its "Beringal".
Rennay:Not my point! its a big deadly monkey monster!
Brad:Actually its a gorilla, which is an ape. Monkeys have tails.
Rennay:STILL NOT MY POINT!
Mercury and Pyrrha are fighting.
Ruby:*To Emerald* Hey, Mercury's doing pretty good!
Emerald:*Rolls eyes*
Rennay:*Grumbles* Kinda smug if you ask me. Still, hes doing better than team CRDL(pronouncing it "Curdle").
The fight is intense but rather brief, Mercury relents after Pyrrha uses her semblance on him.
Mercury:I forfeit!
Pyrrha:You..Don't even want to try?
Mercury:Whats the point? *Shrugs* You're a world-renowned fighter, we're obviously leagues apart.
Glynda:Very well, Pyrrha Nikos is the victor...Again. Next time you may want to think a little harder before picking an opponent.
Mercury:*Waves back* I'll be sure to keep that in mind.
The class bell rings.
Glynda:And we're out of time. Remember, the dance is this weekend but you have your first mission on Monday! I will not accept any excuses.
Everyone leaves the classroom. Blake is lagging behind the group.
Sun: Hey Blake! *suddenly grabs her by the shoulder*
Brad:*growl*
Sun:*lets go and does the "backing off" hand gesture* You uhh, doing ok?
Blake:*irritably* I'm fine.
Sun:So I hear there's this dance going on this weekend... ah, sounds pretty lame, but you and me, I'm thinking, not as lame, huh?
Blake:*snappy* What?
Sun:The dance, this weekend! You wanna go or what?
Blake:I don't have time for some stupid dance. I thought YOU of all people would get that! *Storms off*
Sun:*sinks from his rejection*
Brad:*Watches her walk off, visibly concerned, then looks at Sun*
Sun:Don't look at me, I haven't done anything!
Brad: No, its not you. She's been on a downward spiral since the fight with Torchwick. Hardly eats, sleeps, studies...I've tried talking to her about it but she's been extremely stubborn.
Sun:*sulks*
Brad:Erm, actually I need to ask you a question.
Sun:Shoot.
Brad:How were you able to just up and ask her like that?
Sun:Not sure what you mean by that.
Brad:*Weakly* I have someone I've been trying to ask for days but...I can't muster the courage.
Sun:Well I grew up in Vacuo, never know what tomorrow is gonna bring. If you got something to say to someone, you just say it. Every day might be your last chance!
Brad:Makes sense.
Sun:Especially if you're gonna try and be a huntsman. You know we're gonna be getting our first missions next Monday, might never get another chance!
Brad:Well its not the most pleasant trail of thought but its true.
Sun:Yep! Rejection sucks, but life goes on. Or ends. Whatever comes first! My advice, just go ask her. Even if she says no, atleast you can say you tried and move on! As for me, I'm gonna go grab a post-rejection banana split! *Waves as he heads towards his teammates*
Brad:*Waves back*
Late that night, Brad has thoroughly paced the entire academy multiple times, he finally makes a stop in the cafeteria where he is eating a colossal bowl of wheaties.
Brad:*stuffing his helm*
Pyrrha walks in. She's wearing her pajamas, a Pumpkin Pete hoody a couple sizes too large and a pair of red shorts.
Pyrrha:*sits across from Brad, she lowers her face into the table, obviously depressed* Hello again...
Brad:Pyrrha? *moves his bowl to the side* Whats wrong?
Pyrrha:I could ask you the same question, that's an incredibly big bowl of wheaties you're eating there.
Brad:*Lays his chin down on the table to get to her level, trying to turn attention away from himself* Jaune?
Pyrrha:Yes.
Brad:I see. *Puts his hand on hers* Want to talk about it?
Pyrrha:*weakly* He's head over heels for Weiss.
Brad:I've noticed that. Weiss is actually a nice girl once you get to know her but she's rather....High Maintenance? Here are my thoughts on the matter. Jaune has been fixated on her since the start of the Semester, he probably just hasn't noticed any other girls! Namely, you.
Pyrrha:*lightly knocks her head against the table*
Brad:Have you just tried asking him? I don't doubt he's going to try to ask Weiss to the dance and will likely get shot down, knowing Jaune he'll do something silly and grandiose like serenade her with a guitar, which won't help his case. This could be a good opportunity-
Pyrrha:I can't do that, I'll feel like I'm scavenging from his grief like some kind of emotional vulture!
Brad:You don't have to be blunt about it! Simply be there for him, comfort him, ease the invitation somewhere in the conversation.
Pyrrha:I can't do that...
Brad:Yes you can!
Pyrrha:..*thinks*...Fine, I'll ask him. But only if you ask Yang!
Brad:*snorts milk* WHAT!?
Pyrrha:Don't act so surprised. The dance is coming up Sunday night, you've been pacing the school grounds by yourself, and you're shoveling in your favorite comfort food.
Brad:But..Yang is...I can't!
Pyrrha:Why not?
Brad:..Look at her! I just don't think I'd be any good for her, know what I mean?
Pyrrha:*Sigh* Brad, that's the exact same problem I have!
Brad:What do you mean?
Pyrrha:You may not have noticed but my face is on the front of cereal boxes, I'm a celebrity! When you get put up on a pedestal like I have, it becomes impossible to start any meaningful relationship! Everyone thinks I'm too good for them. Believe it or not nobody, not a single soul from all of the schools meeting up here, has asked me to the dance.
Brad:...I'm sorry, I had no idea.
Pyrrha:Well now you know, its really lonely at the top. To make matters worse, everyone I have been in a relationship with his just wanted to bask in my glory, like I'm some sort of trophy! Jaune isn't like that..I mean, he didn't even know who I was when we first met and he just treats me like..
Brad:He just treats you like Pyrrha.
Pyrrha:Exactly my point! Its also why our friendship works. What I'm getting at is, Yang may not have my sort of fame, but she is a star pupil here and at the top of the sparring class. I think all the boys here are too intimidated to ask her out, I believe you'd impress her if you stepped up.
Brad:Really?....Never thought of it like that.
Pyrrha:So you ask out Yang, and I ask out Jaune. We'll help each other out. *holds out her hand* Deal?
Brad:*Shakes her hand* Deal, and if it works for neither of us I suppose us rejects could share a dance.
Pyrrha:*Smiles* I'll wear steel-toed heels just in case.
The next morning,
Brad:*Sleeping in the corner of the room*
Someone playfully knocks on his chestplate.
Brad:Bwah!? I'm awake!
Yang:Hellooooo~
Brad:Yang! I'm surprised to see you awake this early.
Yang:I'm surprised to see you sleeping in this late!
Brad:Wait, what!?
Yang:Yeah, its almost noon.
Brad:Thats...Unusual. I didn't sleep to well last night. Been up late err...Just a bit excited for the dance, I've....Ehh..I've never been to such an event.
Yang:Well you should be excited! Since CFVY's mission is taking alot longer than expected Weiss and I are in charge, this dance is gonna be happenin'!
Brad:"Happenin'"? I see, sounds like it'll be a thrill!
Yang:Anyway, there's gonna be alot of heavy lifting I'd like some help with. *Heads out of the room, then looks back in* Comin'?
Brad:I'd be delighted! *briskly follows her*
Brad is helping Yang move around a gigantic stereo system. Neither of them look particularly troubled by the weight.
Yang:Little bit to the left!
Brad:Of course. *Does so*
The two softly lower the stereo.
Yang:Thanks for helping me out with the stereos Brad. Kind of awkward to handle 'em by myself because of how wide they are! Plus miss OCD here wouldn't let me hear the end of it if they weren't set straight.
Weiss:Hey! Its not OCD, its called being organized!
Brad:Its no trouble Yang, any time.
Ruby:*Slumped on the table*
Rennay:*On the same table, napping*
Weiss:*Presents Ruby with two shades of white* I need you to pick a tablecloth.
Ruby:Aren't they both the same?
Weiss:Ugh, I don't know why I asked!...Rennay!
Rennay:*Snooze bubble pops* Huh!?...Oh, I wouldn't go with either ivory or snow. In order to better compliment the shading of the tables and chairs along with the lighting you seem to be going for I would go with a seashell white, perhaps lavender blush. *Goes back to napping*
Weiss:*blank eyes*
Rennay:*light snoring*
Yang:*Shrugs* Atlas girls!
Brad:*chuckles*
Yang:*looks at Ruby* So! You pick out a dress?
Ruby:Whats the point? Who cares about the dance if Blake isn't going.
Yang:Don't worry, she's going. WEISS! I thought we agreed, no doilies!
Weiss:*Points* If I don't get doilies, you don't get fog machines!
Crimson, Neptune, Anemone, and Sun enter the room.
Neptune:Your dance is gonna have fog machines?
Weiss:*Sweetly* We were thinking about it..
Neptune:Pretty cool!
Sun:So, you ladies all excited for dress-up?
Ruby:Pft, yeah right...
Yang:Laugh all you want, I'll be turning heads tomorrow!
Weiss:What are you four wearing?
Sun:Uhh..This?
Neptune:*Covers his mouth* Ignore him, for he knows not what he says!
Sun:*Covers Neptune's face* Hey, I may have moved to Mistral but I grew up in Vacuo. Not exactly a shirt and tie kind of place!
Crimson:He's not wrong, one of the reasons I love it there!
Sun:Vacuan pride!
The two share a fist bump.
Neptune:*looks at Brad* What are you gonna wear?
Brad:*paralyzed* Uh-
Yang:*Pats him on the shoulder* He's gonna wear his armor! Brad here never leaves uniform.
Brad:*looks downward and scratches his head*
Neptune:Rest in peace feet...
Crimson:Come to think of it, I don't think I've ever seen him outside of his armor.
Anemone:I'm sure he has his reasons.
Sun:So, what does Blake think of all this? Is she still being, y'know...Blakey?
Weiss:Obviously.
Ruby:I can't think of a way to make her change her mind.
Yang:Trust me. Blake WILL be at the dance tomorrow.
Brad:*Concerned* I hope so, she desperately needs to unwind. Seeing her like this is giving me a heartache.
Yang:If you pick things up from here, I'll hop on it right now. Just follow Weiss' instructions.
Brad:Of course, please help her posthaste!
Yang:I'm on it! Now where'd I put my laser pointer...*Walks off*
Crimson:Did she just say "Laser Pointer"?
Rennay:*Snickers in her sleep*
Ruby:Isn't that kinda racist?
Anemone:Believe it or not alot of faunus crack jokes like that with each other all the time and don't really mind humans getting in on the fun, I've heard my fair share of fish jokes.
Yang:*leans in the doorway* Just don't overdo the puns around Weiss, you might get SCHOOLED!
Weiss:*groan*
Anemone:Sorry I didn't know, I'm still a fish out of water here!
Weiss:UGH!
Rennay:*evidently having a pun-induced nightmare*
Yang:Careful anemone, I think she's this close to kicking your bass!
Anemone:Ugh, that was terrible. When it comes to fish puns, let me fin-nish them!
Weiss:WOULD YOU GET GOING ALREADY!?
Yang:Alright, cutting the carp! *leaves*
Anemone:*giggle*
Weiss:*Sighs* Brad, could you help me set out the tables?
Brad:On it.
Later that night,
Rennay is asleep as usual, Brad is staring rather forlornly out the window.
Brad:*Sighs* (Thats right...Even if I do manage to ask her I'm not going to be able to wear my armor unless I want to crush her feet, and I'd probably end up injuring several other people.)
There's a light knock on the BDRS dorm.
Brad:*opens the door and backs away in surprise*....Oh?!
Neptune:'Sup?
Brad:Neptune?
Neptune:We got an errand to run! *Grabs Brad by the arm and drags him out of the room*
The two are walking down a street in Vale.
Brad:*Awkwardly silent*..So...Uhh...Where are we going?
Neptune:We are gonna pick you out a nice suit! I know just the place.
Brad:Suit!? But I-
Netune:Look dude, I know you want to ask Yang out to that dance. But that armor? Gotta take it off sometime. You'll end up hurting her, and nothing turns off ladies more than a broke foot.
Brad:I can't, I-
Neptune:Whatever weird stuff you got going on under there, I can help.
Brad:I'm not worried about people seeing me outside of my armor, its just I hate being touched and it gives me a sense of security!
Neptune:Dances are all about touching my big pink friend!
Brad:*Sternly* Its technically "salmon"! And I don't think I'd mind with Yang, its just other people!
Neptune:Nobodies gonna be randomly reaching out to grab you! I don't know why you hate being touched and I'm not gonna try and dive nose-first into your reasoning, but I think this could be a good opportunity to try and overcome that fear.
Brad:I don't know what I'll do if I'm startled, I don't know if you've seen my semblance go haywire but its not exactly a pretty sight!
Neptune turns around, puts his hands on Brad's shoulders and leans in.
Brad:....
Neptune:See? Not hurting you. I don't intend to either. Even without the armor on.
Brad:.................
Neptune:Follow me. We're gonna help you get through this. *lets go of his shoulders and walks ahead*
Brad:......Alright. *Follows*
The two arrive at a rather high-end looking clothing store, there's a well-maintained garden around it.
Brad:...This place looks a little high-end, are you sure we can afford it?
Neptune:Calling in a favor. Won a huge bet against the proprietors son in a RTG game-
A sprinkler turns on the lawn.
Neptune:GYAH! *narrowly avoids the spray and clings to Brad's neck*
Brad:What...On earth?
Neptune:JUST CARRY ME TO THE DOOR AND DON'T LET ME GET WET!
Brad:..Its just a sprinkler! What could possibly-
Neptune:I just had this outfit cleaned!
Brad:..Its water, its not going to hurt it!
Neptune:.....
Brad:Oh, you're hydrophobic.
Neptune:I know, yeah. Ironic. Kind of an ongoing theme with my family. My dad Gaia hates getting dirty, and my mom Chronas has no sense of punctuality and can't tell time on a wall clock. I also got four brothers. Jupiter who's afraid of thunder, Pluto who's thanatophobic, Mars gets nauseous the sight of blood, and Venus is gynophobic, he won't get near any women besides mom.
Brad:I understand.
Brad carries Neptune into the store, much to the awkward stares of several patrons.
Neptune:*Coughs* You can put me down now.
Brad:...RIGHT! *Does so*
Neptune:*Walks over to the counter without breaking stride* 'Sup?
Dusty:*rises from behind the counter* Hmmm!
Brad:What the-Old man Dusty!?
Dusty:Mmmhmm.
Neptune:He works here part-time. Anyway...*Hands a card and a predominantly pink sketch to Dusty*
Dusty:*looks at it* Hm!
Neptune:*points to Brad* Whip him up a nice suit.
Dusty Nods and takes Brad to the back room, the sound of his armor hitting the floor is heard along with some uncomfortable grunts.
Neptune:*Stands outside the door*
Brad:*grunts* Hey, ease up on the contact, this isn't a date! So Neptune, if you don't mind me asking how did you earn a free commission from this place?
Neptune:Well I entered a private high stakes RTG tournament back in Haven. The proprieter's son attends the academy there and I took an unorthodox bet against him.
Brad:And?
Neptune:I learned his dad owned one of the finest clothing stores in Vale and he agreed to get me a free commission here if I won!
Brad:And if you lost..?
Neptune:I'd take the ice bucket challenge and have it uploaded to the worldwide web.
Brad:That seems very- Oooooh, water.
Neptune:Yeah, I wasn't exactly on the best terms with him and he wanted to see me publicly squirm.
Brad:Ah..Good thing you won!
Neptune:I'll say. I thought it was a stupid idea at first but the rest of my team egged me on. I think its because they wanted to see me get soaked.
Brad:Charming.
Neptune:*laughs* Yep. "With friends like these", am I right? Seriously speaking though, we'd walk through fire for eachother. They were just being guys.
Brad:I suppose I never really found it possible that sort of mockery could be done on friendly terms. Then again my circle of friends is rather small and I've lived in a cave until I was found and brought to polite society about a year ago.
Neptune:Seriously?
Brad:Yes.
Neptune:That's kinda hard to believe. I mean, don't take this the wrong way but you strike me as being waaaaay too eloquent and smart to have grown up in the wild, alot of people seem to be confused by some of the big words you use.
Brad:*Bitterly* What can I say, I'm a quick learner.
Neptune:..Are you ok?
Brad:Just really, really uncomfortable. Anyway, whats your angle in all this? Why are you helping me? Random bout of altruism?
Neptune:Eh, just wanted to help you out. I Know what its like having confidence issues and figured you could use a little coaching, plus I didn't really intend on using this commission for anything, already got a suit.
Brad:Well my problem isn't really "confidence" when it comes to the armor. Still that does explain your rather overwhelming sense of style and your mannerisms, I think you're giving some of the other men an inferiority complex.
Neptune:Really? That is NOT my intention!
Brad:Well you do draw some envious glares. Even I'll admit you're "Cool".
Neptune:Thanks, I try hard. Really hard.
Dusty:HM!
Brad:Done? Thank goodness!
Brad swiftly puts his armor on and steps out of the backroom.
Neptune:How'd it go?
Brad:My skins going to be crawling all night.
Dusty hands Brad a small device with a timer on it.
Brad:So, it'll be ready for me before the dance tomorrow?
Dusty:*Nods affirmatively*
Brad:Good, I'll come by and pick it up when the timer goes off. *puts it in his chestplate*
Neptune:Lets head back to Beacon, you got a big day tomorrow!
Brad:*exhales* That I do.
Neptune:OH! Dusty!
Dusty: Mmm?
Neptune:Could you ah...Turn off the sprinklers till we leave? My uhh...Friend here, his armor might rust.
Brad:Yes, rusts in a heartbeat!
Dusty:*nods*
Brad and Neptune head out of the store and walk down the path;
Neptune:Thanks for the save there dude.
Brad:No worries, I understand what its like having a phobia. Might seem trivial to others but its quite a big deal for us-
The sprinklers suddenly turn on, Neptune lets out the most high pitched scream one could imagine and jumps into Brad's arms again.
Brad:Oh dear.
Dusty:*friendly wave, along with an ambiguous grin*
Neptune:*Shudders* LETSGOBACKTOBEACONALREADY!!
The next evening;
Brad is sitting on his bed staring at his new outfit, which is hanging from the BDRS closet in a protective bag. Daisy is lying down next to him with Clover curled up in her back.
Rennay:*Grunts as she leans into the room, wearing a dress and heels* I HATE these things! No idea how mum could wear 'em...Coming Big Guy? Everyone's there now.
Brad:In a bit.
Rennay:*Deadpan* You're not coming are you?
Brad:*Hisses through his teeth*
Rennay:I know you haven't asked Yang yet, she doesn't have a date if that's what you're worried about.
Brad:Its..I...
Rennay:You know, Blake's there! Dancing with the Monkey king. Might wanna make sure he doesn't try to cop a feel!
Brad:She is? I saw her napping earlier, glad to see she's finally slowed down...And I don't think Sun would do that.
Rennay:Well...Y'know Neptune did you a big favor yesterday. Wouldn't exactly be polite to just sit it out.
Brad:*Looks downward, dejectedly* Mmmmmmph.
Rennay:*Lets out an annoyed groan and leaves the room* I'll bring you back some punch.
Brad:*Silently stares*
Daisy:*Whine*
Brad:*Pets her head* I know girl.
Daisy:*Growls and headbutts him, knocking him on the floor near the closet*
Brad:Ow! What the hell Daisy-
Daisy angrily barks and corners him under the outfit. She smacks her paw against the wall and it falls from its hanger, landing on him.
Daisy:*low growl*
Brad:....*sigh of resignation*
Down in the ballroom.
Rennay:*on the balcony overlooking the dance floor, walking towards Yang and Ruby* HATE....HATE...HATE...HEELS...
Ruby:*Snidely* Join the club, I'm the president and sending you a formal invitation!
Yang:*laughs* You two are adorable!
Rennay:*Groans* I'M NOT ADORABLE. I'm angry!
Yang:Whats wrong?
Rennay:*Sighs, calming down* Yang, I need a favor-
Brad:..Hello, you all look very lovely this evening.
Yang/Ruby/Rennay:BRAD!?
Brad is outside of his armor, and wearing a rather dapper pink suit. Without his armor he looks nearly harmless despite his size, he's a fair-featured, light-skinned "pretty" man with long, reddish-pink hair kept in a ponytail. His eyes are a vivid bluish-green coloration and although he is undeniably muscular, a coating of fat makes him look rather "poofy". He also has a bishie sparkle hovering around his head.
Rennay:........
Brad:Well. Here I am! Took everything I had to get myself moving but I'm here.
*Silence*
Brad:Ahem...*Shifts a bang of hair out of his face and looks at Yang* Yang Xiao Long, you look..Absolutely radiant tonight. *holds out his hand* May I have the next dance?
Yang:*laughs* Duh! Why didn't you ask me sooner?
Brad:*glass breaking noise, his eyes widen* What?
Yang:C'mon! *crosses her arm with his and pulls him to the dance floor*
Rennay:*Grins and gives Brad a thumbs up*
Brad:*Sheepishly grins and returns the gesture*
The two begin dancing, although Yang is leading Brad manages to keep pace fairly well.
Yang:Not a bad dancer jungle boy!
Brad:I errr...Read alot of books. Studied up on it before the dance just in case I got the courage to ask you.
Yang: Must be one helluva book!
Crimson:*sitting down next to Anemone at one of the tables* Is that Brad?
Anemone:Looks like it!
Crimson:Not exactly what I was expecting him to look like.
Anemone:That armor is definitely misleading.
On the balcony.
Rennay:*Sighs in a friendly tone* I'm so proud of him!
Ruby...Hey have you seen Jaune?
Rennay:No I-
*Door opens, people start laughing*
Rennay:...*completely loses it and tumbles off the balcony and onto a table, still laughing*
Pyrrha:Jaune!?
Jaune:*Wearing a dress* Eh, a promise is a promise!
Pyrrha:*Trying to hold back laughter* You...You didn't have to! *laughs*
Jaune: Hey, an Arc never goes back on his word! *Extends hand* Now do you wanna stand there and laugh at me, or do you wanna dance?
Pyrrha:I would LOVE to dance!
Jaune literally sweeps her off her feet, much to her surprise.
Nora: Ren. This... is... happening!
Ren:*Confused* Wait, what is happening? *Pulled by Nora*
JNPR engages in their bizarrely elaborate dance routine.
Everyone stops dancing and watches.
Anemone:*To Crimson* Why is Jaune wearing a dress?
Crimson:Probably lost a bet!
Brad:*Turns to Yang* Are you seeing this!?
Yang:JNPR must really have their act together, no way my team could spontaneously pull this off!
JNPR stops their dance and everyone goes back with their partners.
Yang:*offers her hand* Another dance?
Brad:*Takes it* Yes sir!
Everyone dances some more, Yang and Brad move close to Jaune and Pyrrha.
Pyrrha:*looks at Brad* Well hello again handsome stranger!
Brad:*whips his hair to the side* Oh stop!
Jaune:Wait, BRAD!?
Brad:In the flesh.
Pyrrha:Yang, mind if we trade for a minute?
Yang:Sure, maybe they'll evolve!
The two swap partners, Brad going with Pyrrha and Jaune is taken by Yang, he's alarmed by her strength.
Pyrrha:*Quietly, excitedly* We did it!!!
Brad:I know! Feels like I've walked over a mountain.
Pyrrha:I just want you to know that I am SO proud of you! I know it couldn't have been easy taking your armor off.
Brad:Thank you Pyrrha, I am to. I mean; proud of you. But also proud of myself!..I'm still probably going to be wearing it most of the time.
Pyrrha:Well, I think we've talked long enough. Looks like Yang's ready to make a switch.
Brad:Righto!
The four seamlessly incorporate a partner switch into their dance.
Brad:Hello Yang!
Yang:*laughs* Dancing with Jaune is like whirling around a scarecrow!
Brad:Well not every girl in here is strong enough to punch the arm off of an Atlesian Paladin, you know!
Yang:Hmmm...Point taken! Gotta say Brad, I wasn't expecting you to be a...
Nora:*moves behind Yang and excitably mutters* BBM!
Yang:That works! You got the little twinkle and everything. *Curiously pokes it, it evades her*
Brad:*Rolls eyes* Don't remind me, it won't go away!
Yang:I think its cute!
Brad:*rumbling noise as he blushes slightly* Errr, ahem, if you say so, then its cute!
The music slows down.
Yang pulls Brad closer to her.
Yang:Slow dance time!
Brad:*Gags as his right eye bulges a bit out of socket* (NOT HERE, NOT NOW!!) *prods it in* Hmmmmm! Right...
Yang:You know, I'm happy you asked me.
Brad:Really?
Yang:Yeah, took some serious balls! All the guys here are intimidated by me and team FRAT has more teeth than brain cells. Well, except maybe Arnie, but thats 'cause I knocked out about half of 'em!
Brad:*chuckles* Well I'm certainly glad that I asked you.
Weiss/Rennay:*laughing*
Neptune:*Trying to dance, though its more along the lines of organized flailing with the occasional bout of twerking* Hey, I'm TRYING!
FRAT enters the dance hall.
Rick:*notices Brad dancing with Yang* Hey bros, whose that?!
Tim:Don't know, but hes dippin' his fingers into our kewlaid!
Brad:*twirling Yang* It's amazing how well you move in heels!
Arnie:That voice...Its the armor guy from the gym!
Frank:HIM!? I can't believe we've been sca-err, tactically avoiding THAT! What a total-
*Ozpin's Office*
Ozpin:*Sigh* What are we going to do with you Miss Schlitz?
Rennay:But sir, they called Brad a-
Ozpin:*Calmly* I know, and while that is unacceptable breaking Frank's jaw in three places is too extreme of a reaction to simple name calling.
*At the infirmary*
Frank:*Lying in bed, his jaw is held in place with some hideous looking headgear*
Arnie:Dude, you got REKT!
Frank:*Pained groan*
*Back at the office*
Rennay:*groans*
Ozpin:Well, I suppose since you did it on your friend's behalf, I'll let this slide. I think the fact Frank will probably develop a crush on you is punishment enough.
Rennay:*"Peanuts" groan* AAUGH!!!