The Queens of Remnant - Chapter 46 (Patreon)

The instant Ruby woke up, she knew that it would be a great day.  But any day was great when it started with Weiss snuggled in her arms.  Contrary to Weiss’ spark, she was warm - mostly - soft, and fit in Ruby’s arms as if they’d been crafted just for each other.  Plus, her hair always smelled amazing, and Ruby didn’t waste the opportunity to nuzzle her nose into it and inhale a deep breath.

A near-breathless sensation swept through her as she clutched Weiss closer, wanting nothing more than to soak in as much of this moment as possible. The past two weeks had been busy, but that hadn’t stopped her from missing Weiss.  She was glad that she returned to Vale early to help with the wedding preparations, but she wished that Weiss could have come with her.

None of that mattered anymore, thankfully, as that trial period of separation had ended.  Now, she was more convinced than ever that she wanted to spend the rest of her life with the incredible queen in her arms.

Hearing a soft sigh, Ruby looked down and smiled as Weiss stirred.  It was nothing more than a slight shift before she stilled again.  Then, just when Ruby thought that she might have fallen back to sleep, another sigh slipped through her lips. Recognizing the signs of Weiss waking up, Ruby nuzzled her face into the nape of Weiss’ neck and squeezed her close.  Before long, Weiss set her hands over Ruby’s and slightly turned to catch Ruby’s gaze.

“Good morning,” Ruby whispered as clear blue eyes made her heart race like the wind.

“Good morning,” Weiss mumbled in return.  While she rubbed the sleep from her eyes, Ruby kissed her neck.  The responding hum filled Ruby with delight, so she did it again.  This time, Weiss swiveled around and looped her arms around Ruby’s neck.

“Someone’s eager…” she teased while running her fingers through Ruby’s hair, quickly putting Ruby under her spell.

“Can you blame me?”

“A little bit, yes,” Weiss joked before glancing toward the window.  The curtains were no match for the sun - its rays snuck around the edges and brightly illuminated the entire bedroom.  “What time is it?”

“Late.”

“Then we should get up.”

The instant Weiss tried to move, Ruby wrapped her in a hug to keep her in bed.

“We don’t have to,” she pointed out while Weiss laughed.  “We can stay here all day.”

“And miss your sister’s wedding?”

“She can tell me how it went!”  When Weiss laughed again, Ruby pulled back just far enough to see her blue eyes.  “I really missed you.  Now, I want you all to myself.”

Ruby always felt greedy when voicing those desires - many people besides herself depended on Weiss for their livelihoods, after all - but Weiss always rewarded the admission with an adoring smile.  This time, she tucked a strand of hair behind Ruby’s ear too, her fingers brushing across Ruby’s cheek at the same time.

“I missed you, too.  But we’ll have plenty of time to ourselves later.  Promise.”

When Ruby playfully sighed, Weiss unraveled herself from Ruby’s arms and slipped out of the bed.  Sensing an opportunity, Ruby quickly sat up and scooted after her.

“Oh, wow.”

Curious, Weiss paused and turned around.

“‘Wow’ what?”

“You’re so beautiful.”

Weiss rolled her eyes at the ruse but let Ruby pull her back into bed.

“You’re just trying to get your way again…” she mused while Ruby kissed her cheek.

“Is it working?”

Just when Weiss opened her mouth to say ‘no,’ Ruby kissed the spot on her neck that she really liked.  The ‘no’ became a soft hum as Weiss tilted her head so that Ruby continued.

“I’d prefer not to answer…” Weiss murmured while running her hands up and down Ruby’s back.

“You know I’m taking that as a ‘yes.’”

“As you wish.”

Interpreting the response to mean that she could do ‘as she wished,’ Ruby trailed soft kisses up Weiss’ neck while sliding one hand down Weiss’ side.

“Ruby…”  The way Weiss purred the ‘r’ in Ruby’s name only encouraged her further.  “I don’t think we have time for this…”

“We do if we hurry.”

When Weiss laughed, Ruby paused her kisses so that she could look down at Weiss.  She was immediately captured in a loving, amused smile, but no less enraptured by the soft pink on Weiss’ cheeks.

“So romantic…” Weiss teased.

“I can be romantic!  We just...don’t have time for that right now.”

As another laugh slipped through Weiss’ lips, Ruby grinned and leaned down to kiss any bit of skin she could find.  She loved Weiss’ laugh.  The sound made her so unbelievably giddy that her desire to show Weiss her love only grew.

“Yes, but -”  Weiss’ words broke off with a soft gasp when Ruby lightly bit her neck.  “But your sister’s getting married,” she got out afterward.  When Ruby again pulled away, Weiss’ eyes locked with hers.  “And I’m pretty sure she’ll blame me if we’re late.”

Finally accepting that her desires and responsibilities had reached an impasse, Ruby sighed and hung her head while Weiss slid out from underneath her.

“After?” she asked, turning to follow Weiss’ path out of bed.  Rather than respond, Weiss winked and headed to the wardrobe to change. “I’m taking that as a ‘yes!’” Ruby called after her, earning a coy smile.

“As you wish,” Weiss replied.  Before stepping into the closet, however, she casually pulled her shirt over her head and dropped it on the dresser.  Blessed with a front-row, unfiltered view of Weiss’ bare back, Ruby immediately groaned and flopped backward onto the bed.

“You’re such a tease,” she whined, hearing Weiss’ laughter drift from the closet.  Accepting that any opportunity to stay in bed had been delayed until further notice, she eventually sighed and got up.

“Alright, I’ve been convinced,” she acquiesced before joining Weiss in getting ready for the day.  Weiss kissed her cheek before heading to the bathroom next - a reward for good behavior that made Ruby’s heart tingle.  Maybe this wasn’t her preferred morning activity, but she could endure.  So, rather than pout, she began the slightly arduous process of dressing for the royal occasion.

Since she and Weiss were part of the official wedding party, their outfits were fancier than what they would normally wear.  Fancier and more difficult to put on, but she wouldn’t complain.  Given her title and relation to Yang, she would be standing at the front of the ceremony, so she needed to look...regal.  The pomp and circumstance had always been lost on her, but this was Yang’s wedding - Ruby would wear a garbage bag if Yang asked her to.

The same went for Weiss, who Ruby would never let wear a garbage bag, but who also had to be royally presentable.  Weiss didn’t have to stand up front, but Yang had invited her to be one of the witnesses and she had accepted.  Maybe to appease Yang, or maybe to stand beside Ruby.

After piecing together her royal ensemble, Ruby followed Weiss to the bathroom for final preparations.  Finding Weiss already dressed and ready, Ruby picked up the pace.

“Can you believe they’re getting married today?” she asked while Weiss waited for her near the door.  “Married.  As in, together forever.  No one else for the rest of their lives.”

When Weiss replied with a soft, distracted hum, Ruby glanced over.  She’d suspected that today would provide plenty of opportunities to probe the topic, but that response didn’t lessen her nerves at all.

“What do you think about that?” she asked while drying her hands.  “Is it scary?  Spending the rest of your life with one person?”

Ruby tried to sound passingly curious, but the question prompted Weiss’ intent gaze.  Weiss searched Ruby’s eyes for a moment, looking for something only she knew, before answering.

“I don’t think it’s scary at all.  If you’ve found someone you love that much, why wouldn’t you make that promise?”

Ruby’s spark agreed, sweeping through her veins as quickly as a smile raced onto her lips.

“I feel the same.” While a smile lifted the corners of Weiss’ lips, Ruby met her by the door and kissed her cheek.  Then, in a moment of boldness, Ruby added, “I’m ready whenever you are.”

Weiss’ eyes widened and a subtle chill snuck off of her skin, but Ruby held out her arms and grinned.

“How do I look?  Like I’m ready to watch my sister get married?”

“You look...perfect,” Weiss replied, though surprise and disbelief flitted through her pretty blue eyes.

“Not as perfect as you,” Ruby said before capturing Weiss’ lips for a kiss.  Weiss’ gentle, loving response made her happier than ever. Whenever Weiss was ready to take that next step, Ruby was ready.  It might take longer than she wanted with so much else going on, but she was patient.  Weiss was worth it.  And, now that Weiss had removed the only legal obstacle in their path, it became more of an option than ever.

Ruby didn’t bring any of that up now though.  Once the kiss ended, she pulled away and smiled.

“Shall we?”

Weiss’ gaze flitted to the door when Ruby extended an arm that way, but her nod was delayed. “We shall,” she eventually said, accepting Ruby’s hand and following into the main living area of Ruby’s old room.

“Hopefully, there haven’t been any fires this morning…” Ruby mused as her attention shifted to the day ahead.  “Well, besides the usual ones,” she added with a chuckle.

“Ruby, wait.”

When Weiss abruptly stopped and her hand tightened around Ruby’s, Ruby turned back to her.

“Wait for…?”

Something was clearly on Weiss’ mind, but she opened her mouth and said nothing.

“What’s wrong?” Ruby prodded.  “Are you nervous?”

“About the wedding?  No.”

“But you’re nervous about something.”  Weiss’ lack of disagreement confirmed what Ruby had picked up on last night.  Little behaviors, mannerisms, and tiny hints of an icy spark all suggested nerves, but Ruby thought those stemmed from their time apart.  After how well they’d reconnected last night, however, those nerves should have disappeared.

“You’re right,” Weiss acquiesced, much to Ruby’s surprise.  “I am.”

“About what?  That Yang will make you give a speech or something?”

“No, I...hadn’t considered that, actually, but I’m sure that would be fine.”

“Then what is it?  Me?” Ruby meant that as a joke, so her brow rose when Weiss nodded. “I’m making you nervous?”

“Yes.  Well, not you so much as…”

Weiss trailed off and shook her head.  Ruby, concerned now, squeezed Weiss’ hand and offered a hopeful smile.

“Whatever it is, you can tell me.  You know I love you more than anything, right?”

“I do.”  The reassurance worked, as Weiss responded with a beautiful smile belying a surge of determination.  “That’s why...I want to ask you something.”

“Ok…?”

Weiss’ anxious energy made Ruby want to hop in place.  Not wanting to ruin Weiss’ resolve, however, she did her best to stay put.  Her spark protested with a small breeze that ruffled the blanket folded over the back of the sofa, but the slip-up only increased Weiss’ certainty.

“It’s something I’ve wanted to ask for some time now,” Weiss explained before gently squeezing Ruby’s hands.  “Wait here.”

Doing as instructed, Ruby stood in the doorway and watched Weiss hurry over to her luggage.  After opening one of the small compartments and pulling something out, Weiss quickly returned and picked up one of Ruby’s hands.  As soon as Ruby saw the determination in Weiss’ eyes, she knew that this was an important moment.  Not just important today or important this week, either.  Whatever Weiss wanted to say held weight unlike anything they’d discussed thus far.

“This might not be the perfect time,” Weiss admitted.  “But...I’m ready, and if you are too...then I don’t want to wait anymore.”

Weiss uncurled her fingers, and Ruby’s heart stopped beating when she saw the ring nestled in the palm of Weiss’ hand.  While not extravagant, it was a simple, stunning silver band perfectly suited for its significance.

“I love you, Ruby.”  When Ruby’s gaze returned to hers, Weiss offered a small, hopeful smile.  “I love you more than I ever thought possible.  Being with you has shown me that my life can have purpose.  And if you’ll accept, I’d like to marry you.  Will you...would you like to marry me?”

Shocked into silence, Ruby glanced at the ring before staring at Weiss.  Weiss was serious.  This wasn’t a joke - though Weiss would never joke about something like this.  She wanted to get married - that thing Ruby had thought about more and more as of late but hadn’t yet found the courage to come right out and ask. Of course, she wasn’t surprised that Weiss beat her to it.  Weiss was one of the strongest, bravest people Ruby had ever met.

“Weiss...I’d love to marry you.”

Ruby kissed Weiss before she processed the answer, but a familiar burst of cold dusted across Ruby’s lips.  Then she pulled away and beamed at Weiss’ stunned disbelief.

“You will?”

“Of course I will!”  Now that Weiss was smiling, Ruby couldn’t help a huge grin and healthy dose of her spark ruffling every stray blanket and sheet of paper.  “I’ve been thinking about it, too.  I just didn’t want to...I don’t know, rush you.”

“Me neither,” Weiss admitted before laughing and shaking her head.  “Then...this is for you.”  Weiss offered the ring to Ruby, who raised her hand and let Weiss slide the silver band around her finger.  “We can get something better if you’d like, but I wanted you to have something special to wear until...we get married.”

The sentence sounded surreal, but Weiss’ soft blush said that it was true.

“This is perfect though.”  With the ring around her finger now, Ruby lifted her hand and beamed.  “I love it.”

“And I love you.”

“I love you, too.”

Buzzing with energy, Ruby kissed Weiss before bouncing on her toes.  If they were outside, she could have flown miles away before returning with ease.  Since they were still in her room, however, she blew a breath through her lips and tried to control her excitement.

But Weiss loved her enough to marry her.  Together forever, happily ever after - all of the things that Ruby had secretly wished for, Weiss just granted.

“Should we tell Yang and Blake?” Ruby asked as soon as the thought popped into her head.  After considering the question, however, Weiss shook her head.

“Why don’t we leave this day for them?  We’ll tell them after they’ve had a chance to celebrate.”

“Right.  Makes sense.  But I’m still wearing this.”  Ruby held up her hand and touched the ring on her finger.  “If that’s alright with you.”

Weiss stared at Ruby’s hand for several seconds, looking at a loss for words, before smiling.

“Please do.”

With that settled, and a monumental morning behind them, Ruby grinned while taking Weiss’ hand and leading them out of the room.

“I had a feeling today would be great,” she said, lightly swinging their joined hands as they made their way downstairs.  “Then again, every day is great with you.”

Feeling a small burst of cold, Ruby glanced over while Weiss set a hand over her heart.

“You’ll make me accidentally freeze something again.”

“Wouldn’t want to do that, would I?” Ruby teased before kissing Weiss’ cheek.  Even though Weiss playfully rolled her eyes, her smile had yet to falter and her eyes had yet to lose their sparkle.

She was happy.  And Ruby was happy knowing that she’d played a role in that happiness.

As soon as they reached the landing leading downstairs, that blissful haze disappeared in a flash of surprise.  She couldn’t remember ever seeing the foyer so...chaotic.  Pandemonium ruled the day as butlers, maids, and assistants rushed around at double their normal pace.  Some held giant vases of flowers that they could hardly see around.  Others carried platters covered in all kinds of delicious food.

“You’re right - we don’t have time for that,” Ruby joked upon seeing the disarray.  The sense of urgency would only grow as the ceremony approached - an outrageous thought considering how hectic things were now.

“There’s your shadow,” Weiss said, nodding to James as they joined the fray.

“Now you’re calling him that, too??”

“I guess your sister’s rubbed off on me, after all.”

Lightly scoffing at the ongoing tease, Ruby waved at her longtime friend as soon as they reached the bottom of the staircase.  While James headed over, Winter walked through the front doors.

“Oh,” Weiss said as soon as she saw her sister.  “I should make sure Winter’s ready.”

“Go ahead!”  Ruby shooed Weiss away, but not before stealing another kiss.  Only then did she grin and nudge Weiss toward the doors.  “I’ll be right here,” she added while Weiss went to meet her sister.  Weiss nodded to James as she passed, but neither of them paused on the way to their respective destinations.

“Good morning,” James greeted Ruby and, somehow, the reserved greeting only added to her energy.

“Good morning, James!  I missed you!”

“I’m also glad to be back in your company, My Queen.”

Ruby knew that was about as mushy as he would ever be, but she still giggled and said, “You can say that you missed me too, you know.”

“I know.”  His smile said more than his words ever would, but his default stoic expression soon settled back in place.  “I hope things went well here?”

“Oh, yeah.  Everything’s great, actually.  Yang doesn’t need much help now that she’s feeling better and has Blake around.  The two of them have this place humming.”

“From what the staff told me, things are working quite well.  Everyone’s happy.”

His observation confirmed everything that Ruby had felt and heard over the past couple of weeks.  Although the scene in the foyer suggested disarray, Vale was in better shape than it had been in quite some time.  Yang’s good health made all the difference in the world.  As did Blake’s fast integration into Vale’s leadership.  Most importantly, without the war hanging over their heads, they were free to prosper without fear of what might happen in the future.

Weiss refused to accept credit, but Ruby credited her all the same.  Without her bravery, none of this would have happened.

“So…?” Ruby asked, giving James an expectant look.

“So...?”

“So how’d she do?”

When Ruby threw her arms in the air, James smiled.

“She did very well.  I’ll admit that she’s becoming quite the queen.”

Glancing at Weiss, who was still talking to Winter near the palace entrance, Ruby smiled. Weiss had always been a queen, but now she was this magnificent, beautiful queen with intelligence, compassion, and a keen eye for fairness.  She’d learned how to interact with the people of Atlas, how to deal with the different forces pushing their objectives, and how to determine what was real and what was fabricated.  In short, she’d learned how to lead - and Ruby couldn’t be prouder.

“I see she found the courage to ask, after all.”

When James nodded to the newly minted ring on Ruby’s finger, her eyes widened.

“You knew??”

“I did.  She asked for my...opinion.”

Ruby narrowed her eyes at the response, which didn’t sound very Weiss-like.  While Weiss often sought opinions to make informed decisions, she probably wouldn’t ask for James’ opinion on something like this.

“You mean she asked for your permission,” Ruby corrected, knowing it was true when he shifted between his feet.

“It’s not my permission to give,” he remarked before his expression grew thoughtful.  “But I told her the same thing I’ve told you - it’s rare to find two people more compatible.  Atlas and Vale are very lucky.”

Ruby beamed at the response and waved when Weiss glanced their way.  Her heart fully jumped when Weiss smiled and waved back before wrapping up her conversation with Winter.

“I should probably find Yang,” Ruby commented before looking up at James.  “You’ll meet us up there?”

“Of course.  I’m going to patrol some more first.  I want a good feel for who’s here today.”

“Of course,” Ruby teased, nudging his side as he set off to fulfill his task.  By now, she knew better than to suggest that he relax and enjoy the festivities.  His version of relaxing entailed ensuring everyone’s safety, especially hers - and now Weiss’ too.

While Weiss hugged Winter and the two parted ways, Ruby subconsciously touched the ring on her finger.  Sometimes, she still couldn’t believe that she could call the gorgeous Atlesian queen her own.  But now…that was truer than ever.

“How’s she doing?” Ruby asked, nodding in Winter’s direction once Weiss rejoined her.  Weiss glanced over her shoulder before smiling.

“She’s all business, as usual.  And she nearly reprimanded me for being late, but then I told her about -”  Weiss blushed and motioned to Ruby’s hand rather than say the words aloud.  “She says congratulations, and she’s happy for us.”

“You told her?  I thought we weren’t telling anyone!”

“Yes, but...she’s my sister.  She’ll keep it to herself for now.”

“Ok good.  Because James knows, too.”  When Weiss laughed and shook her head, Ruby innocently raised her hands.  “What?  He’s my - well, not brother, but kind of.  Besides, it sounds like he knew even before I did.”

Faced with Ruby’s knowing look, Weiss reached out to squeeze her hand.

“Of course he did.  Do you really think I’d try to marry you without him knowing?  I can only imagine what he’d do once he found out…”

“Wish us a happy marriage?”  Ruby laughed when Weiss arched one brow.  “Ok, it’d probably hurt his feelings.  He’s super sensitive.”

“Surprisingly so,” Weiss agreed before glancing around the entryway.  People still rushed every which way, but the chaotic energy had morphed into something closer to excited anticipation.  The ceremony would begin soon, with the requisite parties and celebrations commencing immediately after.

“I should probably find Blake,” Weiss finally said.

“And I should find Yang,” Ruby said before squeezing Weiss’ hand.  “I’ll see you in a bit?”

“I can’t wait.”  Weiss leaned in and kissed Ruby before reluctantly pulling away.  “I like those flowers by the way,” she added, pointing to a giant vase being carried by one of the butlers.

“Noted!”  After committing the arrangement to memory, Ruby nodded.  “We’ll definitely have those at our wedding.”

Weiss covered her heart with one hand when a sudden wave of cold rolled off of her.

“That will take some getting used to…” she admitted as frost slipped through her lips.  After waving the evidence away, she smiled and said, “Love you.”

“Love you, too!” Ruby replied, still grinning as Weiss walked away.

While Weiss went to find Blake, Ruby took a deep breath before setting off for the room Yang should have been holed up in for much of the morning.

“Queen Rose!”

Pausing, she turned around and felt her eyes widen when she recognized the young man hurrying over.

“Deacon??”

Grinning from ear to ear, he stopped in front of her and bowed.

“Queen Schnee said we could come!” he explained, gesturing at the Atlesian chefs looking around the entryway in awe.  “For those who couldn’t, she promised another trip in the future.”

“Of course she did...” Ruby replied as adoration swept through her veins.

Of course Weiss remembered their conversation about the staff having never been outside of Atlas, and of course she found a way to grant them that opportunity.  Her thoughtfulness and empathy never ceased to amaze Ruby, who was more positive than ever that she had the most wonderful...fiancée...in existence.

“You’re making one of those cakes, right?”

“More than one,” Deacon replied, chuckling at Ruby’s excitement.  “The Queen hopes that much of Vale will be able to try some today.”

“Wow.  That’ll be a lot of cake.”

“Which means we should get started.”  Undaunted by the monumental task, he bowed and backed away.  “But we’ll make one just for you, Queen Rose.  Don’t worry!”

Still grinning, he waved and hurried back to the other chefs.  One of the palace aides had come to greet them and soon led them toward the kitchens.  Ruby, meanwhile, waved at the unexpected guests before heading upstairs.  As if this day couldn’t get any better...now she had even more cake to look forward to.

The overpowering cheer, and just a bit of her spark, carried her into the highest reaches of the palace like a breeze.  These areas weren’t used as often as the main sections of the palace, but today plenty of people milled around.

Two armored Elites guarded the door leading to Yang’s waiting room.  Their presence seemed unnecessary, but Ruby didn’t complain.  Strangers from all parts of Vale, the Valley, and Atlas roamed the palace this morning.  Yang could take care of herself, but the precaution let her enjoy the day without those lingering worries.

“Is she here?” Ruby asked one of the guards, who nodded and moved out of the way.  “Yang?” she called out while knocking on the door.

“Come in!”

Ruby opened the door and slipped into the room beyond.  This particular room, which she’d seen the inside of only once before, served as the changing and waiting room for Vale’s royal family on their wedding day.  According to their more senior advisors, it was a big deal. It was a place steeped in history and tradition, as every member of the ruling family waited right here before walking through the double doors leading to the palace rooftop.  The ceremony would take place on the roof - a large, long space with ample seating and the perfect overlook for the bonding.

Ruby still remembered the time when Yang suggested that they have a party on the roof - it had caused a bit of an uproar amongst their advisors.  Ultimately, the idea was declined due to the ‘significance’ of the location.  They considered having the party there regardless, but sometimes they stuck to tradition.

Today, Ruby was glad that they did.  Because when she stepped into the room and saw it decorated with pieces of Vale’s history, goosebumps rose on her arms.  This was the same spot where their parents waited before their wedding, and their grandparents before them, and their great-grandparents before them.  Now, Yang’s time had come.

“Damn, you’re late,” Yang said while hugging Ruby.  After pulling away, she set her hands on Ruby’s shoulders and smiled.  “I thought I’d have to pick another sister for the ceremony.”

“Sorry, Weiss and I got...caught up.”

Yang’s smile instantly morphed into a smirk.

“‘Caught up’...in each other?”  While Ruby’s cheeks heated up, Yang laughed and patted her shoulders before walking away. “Should’ve got up early like Blake and me.”

“But we were tired from last night...”

“We were tired from last night, too,” Yang replied, winking as she sat on a comfortable lounge chair in the middle of the room. Recognizing the look in Yang’s eyes, Ruby tilted her head and lifted one brow.

“Are you...competing with me?”

“That depends - am I winning?”

Ruby didn’t have an answer to that, so she laughed and shook her head.

“I don’t think Weiss would want me to kiss and tell.”

“But she’s also pretty competitive,” Yang pointed out, giving Ruby a reason to pause.

Yang was right about that.  As Weiss lost her uncertainty, she gained confidence and a competitive spirit unlike anyone else Ruby knew...except maybe James.  James could be sneakily competitive without admitting that he was competing.  He would just compete in the background, win, then walk away without a word.

“Call it a draw?” Ruby offered.  She didn’t want to argue on Yang’s wedding day.  She also didn’t want to beat Yang on Yang’s wedding day.   Not that she was positive she would win, but... she was fairly confident in her chances. Although Blake and Yang were practically glued to each other…

“Sure, sure.”  Waving away the subject, Yang motioned with her head toward the other side of the room.  “Want to see what I’m wearing?”

“Of course!”

Ruby followed Yang over to a dresser, where Yang swung one of the doors open before stepping aside.

“Looks nice, right?”

Staring at the royal suit, which was equal parts fancy and awe-inspiring, Ruby grinned and nudged her sister’s side.

“Looks nicer than anything I’ve seen you wear in a long time.”

“I’m so glad you’re here to make fun of me on my big day,” Yang teased right back, chuckling while pulling the outfit from the wardrobe and holding it in front of her.  She had the choice of what to wear, with some limitations.  In the end, she chose a more flattering, feminine version of what their father wore on his wedding day - at least, as told to them by the advisors who’d been there.  Though predominantly black, the red and gold additions added spark, color, and regality.  The gold accents, in particular, meshed beautifully with Yang’s long, golden hair.

“Are you nervous?” Ruby asked, but Yang just laughed while disassembling the outfit so that she could put it on.

“Nervous?” she repeated before shaking her head.  “No, I’m not nervous.”  After sliding her arms through the sleeves of the jacket, she shrugged it on and began fastening the buttons.  As she did so, she sent Ruby a warm, confident grin.  “I’ve never been more excited in my life.”

The answer filled Ruby with a happy glow as she helped Yang straighten the tassels and other additions to the jacket.  From watching Yang and Blake’s interactions alone, Ruby knew how well they meshed.  They challenged each other to be better.  They supported each other in everything they did.  Most importantly, they were madly in love.

“Then why’d it take you so long to ask?” Ruby asked while folding Yang’s discarded pair of pants and setting them on the nearby desk.  Yang scoffed while shimmying into the rest of her outfit.

“I would’ve asked earlier, but she was so busy fixing things in the Valley.  I didn’t want to be a distraction.”

Ruby nodded at the typical Yang answer.  Yang had always been selfless and willing to put the good of Vale first, but her selflessness for Blake was different.  For Blake, Yang harbored a loving, attentive nature that reminded Ruby of...well, kind of like how Yang treated her.

“But the day’s finally here,” Ruby replied.  “No more waiting.”

“You got that right.”  After straightening one of her sleeves, Yang glanced at Ruby and said, “Probably need to get you one of these soon, huh?”

“What do you mean?” Ruby asked, touching her thumb to the silver band around her finger and tilting her head.  She hoped the response sounded normal, but Yang arched one brow.

“How dumb do you think I am?”

“...fairly dumb?”

Ruby giggled and stepped out of the way when Yang swatted at her arm.

“I’ll remember that,” Yang said before nodding to Ruby’s hand.  “Nice ring, by the way.”

Immediately blushing, Ruby subtly covered the evidence with her hand.

“Thanks.  It’s, uh...a gift.”

“A gift, huh?”  After briefly studying one of the decorative hilts laid out on a table, Yang set it down and shot Ruby a grin.  “That’s a nice gift.  And I’m sure it doesn’t mean more than that.  Because if it did, you’d definitely tell me.  I’m your sister, after all.  You’re only sister, even -”

“Ok, fine!” Ruby caved, knowing Yang would bury her in guilt before long.  “It’s exactly what you think it is,” she admitted while Yang grinned.  “But we don’t want to steal your thunder since this is your big day, so can you please not make it a big deal?”

Any concern Ruby had about Yang being upset disappeared when Yang hugged her. “I’m so happy for you!” Yang added before stepping back and resting her hands on Ruby’s shoulders.  “And it’s cute you think you can hide things from me.”

“Like you think you can hide things from me?” Ruby retorted with a raised brow.

“I totally can.”

“Right...because last time that worked...not at all.”

Ruby pointed at Yang’s heart before making a hand gesture that symbolized something going up in flames.  Yang, meanwhile, chuckled and lit a ball of fire in the palm of her hand.

“Worked out just fine,” she replied before closing her fist over the flame and motioning to Ruby’s hand.  “When’s the big day?”

The mere thought of marrying Weiss ushered a blush onto Ruby’s cheeks.

“We haven’t discussed it -”

“Will it be in Atlas?”

“Yang...”

“Fine, fine.  Let’s focus on me.”

“Thank you.”

Chuckling at Ruby’s embarrassment, Yang waved at the row of swords and sabers in exquisite sheathes.

“What do you think?  Overkill?”

Considering Yang’s outfit, which was ornate by itself, Ruby imagined adding one of the decorative weapons to the ensemble.  Wrinkling her nose and shaking her head, she said, “Too much.”

“Thought so.”

While Yang pushed the weapons aside, Ruby’s thoughts drifted to Weiss.  Glancing at the ring on her hand, her heart swelled with love and excitement. The wonderful, compassionate, intelligent person who gave her this ring was going to marry her.  She didn’t know when or where, but it would happen one day.  Then she would be in Yang’s position - more excited than she’d ever been in her life while waiting for the big moment to finally arrive.  She was already looking forward to it.

As Ruby thought about how much she was already looking forward to an unknown day in the future, an idea popped into her head.

“I just thought of something.”

Perching on the desk in a decidedly unqueenly manner, Yang lightly swept her feet across the floor and said, “Shoot.”

“What do you think about...once a year, Vale, Atlas, and the Valley throw a celebration.”

“You know I like a good party.  What for?”

“To celebrate all of us,” Ruby gestured to herself and Yang before gesturing to the window.  “The rulers, the advisors, the soldiers, the people - everyone can come together and celebrate that we made it through the war, and things have never been better.”

“Like a prosperity day,” Yang suggested, and Ruby nodded.

“Exactly!  Celebrating everything we have because we know what it’s like to go without.”

“I like it.”

With Yang’s endorsement, Ruby bounced on her toes.

“Yeah?”

“Of course!  When should we have it?”

“I was thinking...it could be on Weiss’ birthday.”

Yang stared at Ruby, looking through her like she always did, before slowly nodding.

“Is this some sentimental thing?”

“She didn’t exactly have nice birthdays growing up,” Ruby explained.  “And she won’t want a day that’s all about her, but if everyone else is happy and having a good time...I think she’d like that.  Seeing everyone happy would make her happy.”

“So basically...you’re creating a multi-kingdom holiday just for her?”

“Kind of?”

“That’s sweet,” Yang said before chuckling.  “I’m on board.”

“Awesome!”  Before celebrating, Ruby realized that she needed more than just Yang’s agreement these days.  “What do you think Blake will say?”

“Oh, she’ll definitely agree.  If not, I’ll convince her.  She’s going to be my wife, after all.  I should be able to at least do that.”

While Yang chuckled at what might or might not be a winning strategy, Ruby quickly hugged her.

“Thanks, Yang.  You’re the best.”

Ruby rubbed her hands together while thinking about the work needed to bring this idea to fruition.  She couldn’t wait to tell Weiss.  Weiss would see right through it, of course, but she would never turn down an opportunity to increase morale and happiness.  Plus, if all else failed, Ruby wasn’t above a little begging.

“Speaking of Blake…”  After taking a deep breath and running her hands down her jacket, Yang looked at Ruby.  “Sure you’re ok with this?”

“You know I’ve never cared about that stuff.”

“Yeah, but...this changes things.”

“For the better.”

When Yang still looked vaguely worried, Ruby set her hands on her sister’s shoulders.  Not long ago, Ruby feared that this moment, and a lot of other moments, would be lost forever.  Weddings...birthdays...celebrating any of life’s milestones faded as Yang’s spark raged out of control. But now, Yang stood here on her wedding day - healthy, strong, and capable of facing any challenge sent their way.  For the chance to experience this moment, Ruby would have given up anything.  In that grander scheme of things, relinquishing control over Vale hardly mattered.

“Besides,” Ruby added.  “It’ll be nice to have her help.  The people already respect her, and we both know they’ll eventually come to love her.  And she makes you happy.  How could that possibly be a bad thing?”

That, to Ruby, was the most important part.  After everything Yang went through and all the sacrifices she’d made throughout her life, she deserved to be happy.  Fortunately, after ruminating on Ruby’s response, she smiled.

“Thanks, Ruby.”

“You’re welcome,” Ruby replied before glancing at the clock and realizing that the time had nearly arrived.  “She knows what to expect, right?” she asked, and Yang nodded.

“I explained as much as possible, but she’s still nervous.  It’s the most adorable thing I’ve ever seen.”

“Besides me, of course.”

Laughing, Yang leaned over and nudged Ruby’s side.

“Of course.”

“I kind of hope she knocks you on your butt,” Ruby admitted, and Yang laughed again.

“Believe me, I’m worried she’ll try.”  Yang glanced at the clock and took a deep breath before letting it out in one quick exhale.  “Guess it’s time, huh?”

“It is.”  Once Yang stood up, Ruby pulled her into a hug.  “Love you.”

“Love you too.”  After returning the hug, Yang released her and smiled.  “You’re the best sister I could’ve asked for.”

“Same to you.  And it’s way better now that you’re not burning up all the time.”

“Yes,” Yang agreed with a light laugh.  “It’s much better when I’m not burning up all the time.”  Checking her reflection in the mirror, she added, “But I managed to stay quite hot…”

After playfully rolling her eyes at the joke, Ruby gestured to Yang’s royal wedding attire.

“What do you think?  Ready to get married?”

With one last look in the mirror, Yang smoothed her hands down her jacket and smiled.

“Yes.  Hell yes.”