[RWBY] RWBY Shorts

[AndrewJTalon]

For the Mistralian Civil War I want to accomplish a few things:

1: To show Salem is a cunning villain who has made good use of her assets like the White Fang, Lionheart, and others to cause chaos, destruction and misery. She needs the nations of the world divided and fighting amongst themselves to empower her Grimm and herself.

2: To test our heroes. They will have to make it to Haven to try and find Cinder and reconnect with Lionheart, Ozpin's ally. They'll have to have a lot of adventures on the way there and going through a war zone knowing that it's all a plot by Salem will test them severely. Ruby will hit a moment of despair at this senseless waste, not helped by a confrontation with Tyrian where he mocks her convictions of heroism. It is a challenge for her to overcome, to find hope in this darkness and senseless brutality.

3: To show that Salem just used existing conflicts between these factions and made things worse, pushing them into open warfare.

4: To have Ruby and our heroes make a real difference in the world against Salem. They will fight hard, get victories, little ones that add up. Spread the word and the truth that this conflict is being pushed and everyone's being manipulated, ultimately being able to prove this to the people in charge so that some kind of peace can be made. It will be a temporary peace, yes, but ending the conflict and giving people the chance to forge alliances to eventually fight back against Salem would be a huge victory. It makes Ruby and her friends' travails much more meaningful: They aren't just out on a solo revenge mission, they are actively doing good in the world and making a real difference.

5: To PROPERLY develop the theme that CRWBY kept yapping about but didn't actually show: To keep going and still have hope no matter how hard things get. It wasn't until VOLUME FUCKING NINE that Ruby had a breakdown and that led to her committing FUCKING SUICIDE for all intents and purposes. Here? Ruby and her friends get a look at the brutality of humans and Faunus making war, confront how brutal they can be, ask if it is worth it to continue... And they KEEP. GOING. They find hope in the darkness. And they make. Things. BETTER.

A theme for a story is not just something the author SAYS is in the story, the theme is IN THE STORY. It's a KEY part of it. Having Ruby and her friends go through this terrible conflict, have to make hard decisions, suffer, feel despair but find hope and TRIUMPH: THAT is how you execute and explore a theme of a story. Just saying the theme is "to keep pressing on" is meaningless: The show keeps going, that does NOT mean the theme is in the show especially when there is NO EXPLORATION OF IT.

At least that's what my aim with the Mistralian Civil War is. And yeah it would take more Volumes than in the canon to show off all this: So what? It's fanfiction, I can expand things as I like! And more would happen in these fanon volumes than actually occurred in the real ones!

The thing is, yes RWBY is an action show and yes this story of mine would be punctuated by action. But the action would have a point, it would serve the theme of the story. The Apathy would be drawn by the despair of the war to try and cause more of it, they wouldn't just be a random ass encounter. Tok is fighting as a mercenary for one of the factions in the conflict who doesn't care about their ideals, just in money. Cordovin is seeking glory and using Atlasian assets to escalate the conflict for her personal gain, and she's not a servant of Salem. Kurokuri is being wrecked by the war and the Nucklavee and Ren has to decide between saving his friends and innocent lives or throwing his life away for vengeance. There's a LOT you can do with a war going on in the background, and that's why I am putting it into my fan canon. For anyone to use.

 

[AndrewJTalon]

Alas, due to me mentioning my Patreon on a number of my stories on Ao3, those stories are now hidden. So I've been doing a lot of editing to ensure those stories are not permanently deleted. Sigh.

Anyway! This is a commission I did on my Patreon for a member. I can do commissions for this and many other fandoms if you wish, just contact me on my Patreon. I'm currently unemployed so every little bit helps.

- - -

"This final championship bout has exceeded all expectations! As we enter the fourth overtime round, it's astonishing how these two prodigies refuse to yield!"

The announcer's voice blended into the background noise Pyrrha Nikos tuned out. The crowd's roar, the background music, the birds chirping in the arena's rafters—all faded as blood pounded through her veins, her lungs drew in air, and blood dripped from a wound on her arm.

Her opponent was her sole focus. His white-and-black armor bore as many cuts, scrapes, and dents as hers. His blond hair, slick with sweat, mirrored her crimson locks. His intense blue eyes locked onto hers as he gripped his sword and shield with effort. His Aura still crackled, a storm of power, just as her own soul's energy thrummed through her body.

No other opponent had been as difficult to fight. No other fighter had been more of a challenge. And given how many times they had clashed? It was not a stretch to call him her greatest rival. She was the Invincible Girl… But he? He was the Implacable Boy. Their fights were popularized as the most bitter of rivalries, hated enemies both competing for the top spot.

The reality was somewhat different… Though there were times he could be a bit infuriating.

Between labored breaths, her opponent flashed a cocky smirk.

"Gotta say, Pyr… you're tough to bring down."

"Y-Yeah," Pyrrha replied, measuring her breaths, "I'm actually enjoying myself… for once, Jaune."

Jaune shook his head slowly, his eyes never leaving hers. He was too skilled to make such a mistake.

"What? Our earlier fights weren't good enough for you? Sore loser," he teased.

She flushed.

"Must you… Tease me?" She asked.

"You're beautiful when I do," Jaune replied easily. She blushed, and hid her smile.

Pyrrha then tensed slightly, and he adjusted his stance in response. She sprang forward, swinging Milo in a flurry of strikes. Feinting toward his throat, she aimed Akuo at his knees, but his shield met hers, deflecting it with a shower of sparks. She darted to the side, leveraging her superior mobility despite her exhaustion, but he swung his sword into her path. She parried with Akuo and attempted to bash his shield.

He met her force with equal strength, and she felt his shield give way. Her smile widened… then turned to shock as he surged forward, sending both shields flying. He threw a punch while pushing her sword aside, the impact jarring her side and straining her Aura like cracking glass. Reflexively, she drove her fist into his gut with all her strength, and he coughed up blood as his own Aura faltered.

They staggered apart, clutching their sides, swords trembling in their hands.

"Good trick," Pyrrha managed.

"Lucky," Jaune replied modestly and breathlessly. He adjusted his grip, wielding his sword with both hands. Pyrrha mirrored him. They charged, exchanging probing strikes—or rather, strikes fueled by whatever energy they could muster. They searched for any weakness, any opening to end the fight.

"You can't outlast me, Pyr," Jaune gasped.

"Really, Jaune? I think… we're both feeling this fight," Pyrrha shot back, forcing a cocky smile despite her exhaustion. Jaune chuckled, thrusting his blade in a quick feint toward her face. She anticipated it, parrying his true strike at her side. She lunged to capitalize, but his renowned footwork allowed him to recover and defend. Their swords clashed like hammers on an anvil.

The crowd fell nearly silent, heightening the surreal atmosphere.

"We are," Jaune agreed. His eyes locked onto hers as he shifted to a higher stance, raining blows down on her. She deflected them, though his brute strength made it challenging. She might be faster, but he was a tank, an unstoppable force.

Pyrrha licked her lips, her heart racing. She tried to trap his Crocea Mors against Milo's guard, mechashifting her weapon into rifle mode as Jaune flexed his wrist. She pushed forward, and both weapons flew from their hands, clattering onto the stone arena floor.

They stood panting, staring at each other. She flexed her hands, curling and uncurling her fingers. Jaune mirrored her, his shoulders heaving with deep, slow breaths as sweat dripped from his nose. He shifted into a boxing stance, and she adopted her Pankration stance.

He took a deeper breath, his brilliant blue eyes fixed on hers.

"Before this ends… I need to tell you something, Pyr," he said.

Pyrrha frowned slightly. "What?"

Jaune's smile warmed. She had always loved his warm smiles, even when he smirked cockily—still so handsome.

"Whatever happens… will you come to Beacon with me? Become Hunters? Together?"

Pyrrha flushed. "T-Together?" she stammered.

Jaune nodded. "Yeah. I got into this to prove I could fight and support my family… but I want to make a difference. I want to make the world better. And I… I know you do, too."

Pyrrha's cheeks burned brighter. She held her guard but felt a warmth unrelated to her Aura flood her body.

"I do," she said, nodding. Her smile turned dreamy. "I mean… I would like that."

His smile matched hers, warm and wistful.

Jaune charged, and so did she. He threw quick jabs, which she dodged and deflected with her forearm. His haymaker swung up, but she caught it, pushing herself to flip over his head while gripping his wrists. He let her, his arms loose, then turned and broke her hold. She gasped as he pulled her against his chest, his arms encircling her waist, pinning hers to her sides. His breath was hot against her ear.

"I'm so glad," he whispered. "I can't imagine my life without you anymore. And I don't want to."

Pyrrha nearly swooned but turned it into a move, using her feet to trip him while grabbing his arms to throw him. His impeccable footwork saved him, and he spun her away, catching her hand to halt her. It felt like a dance.

Their smiles were wide and genuine. She yanked his hand, raising a fist. He pulled back, his own fist ready.

"Sorry," they muttered in unison, just before their fists connected with each other's cheeks. Their Auras shattered simultaneously, and they collapsed to the arena floor. The crowd erupted, screaming with riotous cheers.

"And… that's it! IT'S A TIE! THEIR AURAS BROKE AT THE SAME TIME!" the announcer bellowed. "INCREDIBLE! A CROSS-COUNTER KNOCKOUT! BOTH ARE DECLARED CHAMPIONS! THIS IS THE MOST ASTOUNDING TOURNAMENT FINAL I'VE EVER SEEN!"

Pyrrha slowly opened her eyes, the shock of her broken Aura fading, leaving aches and pains. She looked at Jaune, who grinned back, though his expression was pained.

He slid his hand toward hers. Smiling, she reached out to grasp it.

"You okay?" he gasped softly.

Pyrrha nodded, smiling. Her mother might be upset about the fact she was sharing the title, and the pain was intense… but honestly?

"I've never been better."

 

[AndrewJTalon]

Jaune: "Wait. Why do I have to drive?"

Weiss: "Because you are the only one with a valid permit to do so and Yang is busy out buying supplies."

Jaune:" Why didn't she take the car then?"

Ruby:" It was only supposed to be a short run and she had to have something checked on Bumblebee. She's afraid that new Garage, Torchwicks totally honest garauge and not a front, may have done something too it."

Jaune:" Uh huh. Anything else?"

Ruby looking at Weiss both speak up[ far too quickly: "Nothing."

Jaune: "Anything. Else?"
[7:03 PM]typhonis1138: Weiss looks nervous.

Ruby poking fingers together.

Ruby: "Just one tiny, pretty insignificant thing."

Jaune:" Yes?"

Ruby: "We need to pick up Zwei from the Vet along with Blake."

Jaune: "Okay... Wait. Blake's at the vet with Zwei?"

Ruby nervous smile

Ruby: "Yeah. She was with me when I took him to the Vet. You know how she doesn't like him. Well....they kept her over night for observation. Something about her temperature being too low for her breed. Plus she needed some shots."

Jaune: "She's a Faunus, not an actual cat! Oh God... Did she insist on it?"

Ruby and Weiss: Nervous laugh.

Ruby :"Yang....doesn't know. Please don't tell her!"

Jaune: "I promise I will keep it secret."

Ruby: "An Arc promise, right?"

Jaune: "No. It's too funny for that. Though..." Stares at Weiss "Why aren't you going to tease the hell out of Blake for this?"

Weiss: "Future blackmail."

Jaune: "Ah, that makes sense."

 

[AndrewJTalon]

Technical Profile: M-77 Chimera

• Type: Main Battle Tank
• Manufacturer: Kalvis Motors
• Origin: Vale
• Role: Anti-Grimm operations, armored assault, border defense, mobile fire support
• First Deployment: Year 69 Post-Great War
• Cost: Moderate (designed for mass production with modular components)
• Dimensions:
  • Length: 10.2 meters (including barrel)
  • Width: 8.5 meters
  • Height: 5.7 meters (turret roof)
  • Weight: 40,000 kg (combat-ready)
• Crew: 3 (commander, gunner, driver), four passengers on the outside
• Powerplant: Wayland Motors D-12 Hybrid Combustion Dust Engine (1,500 horsepower, augmented with Gravity Dust for enhanced torque and a hybrid electrical powertrain for stealth mode)
• Performance:
  • Top Speed: 65 mph (72 km/h) on roads; 40 mph (48 km/h) off-road
  • Range: 360 miles
  • Ground Clearance: 0.5 meters (adjustable via active suspension)
• Armament:
  • Primary: 1 x Vasagus MG-90 120mm Dust-Accelerated Smoothbore Cannon (Fire Dust high-explosive rounds, Lightning Dust armor-piercing rounds; 40 rounds, mechashift autoloader at 15 rounds/min)
  • Secondary: 1 x Coaxial 7.62mm Machine Gun (Gravity Dust-enhanced, 2,000 rounds)
  • Tertiary: 1 x Commander's 12.7mm Heavy Machine Gun (roof-mounted, remote or manual, 800 rounds)
  • Optional: 2 x Redeye Dust Missile Launchers (4 missiles total, 500 lb capacity, mounted on turret sides)
• Defenses:
  • Reinforced composite armor (titanium-steel with Ceramic plating, resistant to Grimm claws and 105mm rounds)
  • Reactive Armor Plating System
  • Anti-Grimm Sonic Emitters (50-meter radius, disorients lesser Grimm)
  • Countermeasure Drones (Fire Dust flares to deter aerial Grimm)
  • Smoke and Grenade Launchers (Various Dust Versions)
• Electronics:
  • "Deadeye" Sensor Suite (thermal, Dust-signature, and motion detection; tracks up to 30 targets)
  • Secure Comms Array (encrypted links to VDF units and Huntsmen teams)
  • Terrain Mapping System (real-time analysis for Vale's rugged landscapes)
• Special Features:
  • Four-Bogie Suspension: Complex, independent bogie system for enhanced mobility over Vale's mountainous terrain; allows climbing steep gradients and navigating rocky paths
  • Hybrid Powertrain: Extends range, allows for stealth mode.
  • Fast Autoloader: Mechashift-based system enables rapid firing (15 rounds/min) to counter Grimm swarms
  • Modular Armor Panels: Replaceable sections for quick repairs and mission-specific upgrades.
  • Amphibious Kit: Optional sealing for shallow water crossings (up to 1.5 meters)
  • Aircraft Deliverable

---

Background and Development

Kalvis Motors, a cornerstone of Vale's industrial sector, has a storied history dating back to the Great War, supplying rugged tanks, transports, and civilian vehicles to the VDF and Vale's populace. Known for blending affordability with reliability, Kalvis has long competed with Atlas' high-tech manufacturers like Nachfolger Industries, prioritizing practical designs suited to Vale's diverse terrain and Grimm-heavy threats. The M-77 Chimera was commissioned in response to the VDF's need for a versatile main battle tank to replace aging models, capable of tackling both Grimm hordes and potential human adversaries while navigating Vale's mountains, forests, and valleys.

The four-bogie suspension, though complex, was deemed essential for Vale's rugged landscapes, allowing the tank to traverse steep slopes and rocky outcrops where Atlasian vehicles struggled. The fast autoloader, developed with off the shelf mechashift technology, addressed the VDF's need for rapid response against swarming Grimm, enabling sustained fire without sacrificing mobility. Tested extensively in Vale's Forever Fall and mountain border regions, the Chimera proved its worth against Beowolf packs and larger Grimm like Death Stalkers. Its modular design and cost-effectiveness made it a mainstay of the VDF, with variants adapted for urban defense, anti-air roles, and even civilian recovery operations. Despite its success, the Chimera faces competition from Atlas' more advanced (and pricier) armored platforms, though its rugged reliability keeps it a favorite among Valean tank crews and Huntsmen. While not as heavily armored as Atlas' armored weapons, the Chimera's advanced sensors, mobility and gunnery keep it competitive and it has been exported to other independent kingdoms.

---

Capabilities in Remnant's Context

• Anti-Grimm Operations: The Chimera's 120mm Dust-accelerated cannon delivers devastating Fire and Lightning Dust rounds, capable of obliterating mid-tier Grimm like Ursas or crippling elder Grimm with sustained barrages. The fast autoloader ensures rapid engagement of swarm targets, while sonic emitters scatter lesser Grimm, creating space for Huntsmen.
• Mobile Fire Support: Designed to support VDF and Huntsmen teams, the Chimera provides direct fire with its cannon and machine guns, coordinating via its "Deadeye" suite. It can also elevate its gun and use special munitions to provide indirect fire support with the aid of data links, allowing it to function as mobile artillery in a limited capacity.
• Stealth and Mobility: The hybrid motor's electric mode enables silent approaches, ideal for ambushing Grimm or bandits in Vale's urban, forest or mountain terrain.
• Terrain Adaptability: The four-bogie suspension excels in Vale's mountainous and forested regions, climbing gradients up to 40 degrees and navigating uneven terrain. The amphibious kit supports operations near rivers or lakes, critical for Vale's border patrols.
• Survivability: The composite and reactive armor withstand Grimm assaults and light enemy fire, though it's less durable than Atlasian tanks. Countermeasures like smoke and Dust grenades provide evasion options, ensuring survival in chaotic battles.
• Psychological Impact: The Chimera's sleek yet rugged design and rapid-fire cannon boost VDF morale, symbolizing Vale's resilience. Its presence deters bandits and smaller Grimm, though elder Grimm require coordinated efforts.

Yes it's basically the M820 Scorpion. But I thought it would be fun to add to the universe.

Spoiler

Tell me Ruby wouldn't be drooling over this thing.

 

[AndrewJTalon]

An old but fun idea of mine: Roman helping Jaune get into Beacon is a popular trope. So he now cashes in the favor:

Roman: "Listen kid. This crazy redhead with a scythe and this nutty catgirl in black keep attacking my deals. They're your classmates. Any way you could, ya know, get them to stop being vigilantes?"

Jaune: "Have you thought about not committing crimes on a level that get them to notice you?"

Roman: "Assume that isn't an option."

Jaune: "Aw geez, Roman. I don't wanna hurt them, they're my friends."

Roman: "Hurt-!?! For Pete's sake, boy! Did the theatres and arcades stop working when I wasn't looking? Take them out for freaking dinner or something when they look like they're bored so they stop looking for crime to stop!"

Roman trains Jaune how to sweep the girls off their feet so he can do crime in peace.

 

[AndrewJTalon]

• Technical Profile: AV-88 Dragonet
  • Type: Heavy-Lift Transport Airship
  • Manufacturer: Wayland Air Motors
  • Origin: Vale
  • Role: Heavy cargo and troop transport, disaster response, anti-Grimm operations, power projection
  • First Deployment: Year 72 Post-Great War
  • Cost: Moderate (uses off-the-shelf components and modular design for cost efficiency)
  • Dimensions:
    • Length: 30.5 meters
    • Width: 23.3 meters (including stub wings for stability)
    • Height: 10 meters (approximately 33 feet), or 10.5 meters with landing gear extended)
    • Weight: 50,000 kg (unladen); 95,000 kg (max takeoff)
  • Crew: 8 (2 pilots, 2 navigators, 2 gunners, 2 technicians); up to 40 passengers (Huntsmen, VDF troops, or support personnel)
  • Cargo: 45,000 kg (99,208 pounds; capable of transporting 1 M-77 Chimera tank or equivalent heavy equipment)
  • Powerplant: Four Brigid Electric DPS-33 Dust Reactor Thrusters (primary lift and stability, augmented with Combustion Dust for thrust)
  • Performance:
    • Top Speed: 200 mph (322 km/h)
    • Service Ceiling: 18,000 feet
    • Range: 800 miles (extendable to 1100 miles with external Dust pods)
  • Armament:
    • 1 x Winchester M-79 25mm Dust-Accelerated Autocannon (retractable, ventral turret, Fire and Lightning Dust rounds, 650 rounds/min)
    • 6 x External Hardpoints (10,000 lb total capacity: Fire Dust missiles, Ice Dust cluster bombs, Blast Dust guided rockets)
    • 4 x Side-Mounted Machine Guns (14.5mm, Gravity Dust-enhanced, 2,000 rounds each, crew or remote operated)
    • 1 x Anti-Grimm Sonic Disruptor Array (100-meter radius, disorients lesser Grimm)
  • Defenses:
    • Reinforced composite hull (titanium-steel with Ceramic Dust plating, resistant to 20mm rounds and Grimm claws)
    • Anti-Grimm Sonic Field (continuous low-frequency pulse, 150-meter radius, deters smaller Grimm)
    • Flare, Chaff and Dust Munition Launchers (Fire Dust for IR seeking missiles, Ice Dust-based for concealment)
  • Avionics:
    • Orb-33 Sensor Suite (thermal, Radar, Dust-signature, and motion detection; tracks up to 30 targets)
    • AI-Assisted Navigation System (optimizes for Vale's terrain and Grimm threats)
    • Secure Comms Array (encrypted links to VDF command, Huntsmen teams, and air support)
    • Terrain Mapping System (real-time analysis for Vale's mountains and forests)
  • Special Features:
    • Heavy-Lift Capability: Sling-load system for 1 M-77 Chimera tank (40,000 kg) or equivalent cargo (e.g., vehicles, Dust containers)
    • Modular Cargo Bay: Configurable for troop transport, medical evacuation, or mobile command post
    • Dust Refueling Probe: Mid-air Dust canister swaps for extended range
    • Amphibious Sealing: Gaps in superstructure allow water landings and limited buoyancy
    • Four Landing Thrusters: Enhanced stability for precise landings in rough terrain
      

      ---

• Background and Development
• Wayland Air Motors, a leading Valean manufacturer, has a storied history of producing versatile aircraft and vehicles for the VDF and civilian markets, competing with Atlas' high-cost manufacturers like Nachfolger Industries. Following the success of the AV-47 Tigertail, Wayland was commissioned to develop a heavy-lift airship to address the VDF's need for transporting heavy assets like the M-77 Chimera tank across Vale's mountainous terrain, supporting disaster response, and bolstering anti-Grimm operations. The AV-88 Dragonet, named for a small dragonfly, was designed to embody the Tigertail's cost-effective, modular philosophy while scaling up for heavy-lift capabilities.
• Developed in three years, the Dragonet leveraged off-the-shelf avionics and Dust systems from the Tigertail, ensuring affordability and rapid production. Its four Gravity Dust reactors and robust thrusters were optimized for lifting 45,000 kg, enabling transport of a Chimera tank or equivalent cargo. Testing in Vale's Forever Fall and border highlands proved its ability to navigate rugged landscapes and deliver payloads under Grimm attack. The airship's modular design made it a favorite for VDF logistics, disaster relief, and even civilian applications (e.g., construction or resource transport), though its combat capabilities ensure it remains a battlefield asset.
• Despite its success, the Dragonet faces challenges from Atlas' advanced airships, which boast superior armor and tech but at a higher cost. The Dragonet's balance of speed, capacity, and affordability keeps it competitive, reflecting Vale's scrappy resilience.

---

• Capabilities in Remnant's Context
  • Heavy-Lift Transport: The Dragonet's 45,000 kg capacity allows it to sling-load an M-77 Chimera tank or heavy equipment, supporting rapid deployment in Vale's remote regions. Its cargo bay accommodates 40 Huntsmen or modular command units, ideal for disaster response or troop insertions.
  • Anti-Grimm Operations: The 25mm autocannon and hardpoint munitions provide defensive firepower against aerial Grimm like Nevermores, while sonic arrays scatter lesser hordes. The side-mounted machine guns allow passengers to engage threats during landings.
  • Terrain Adaptability: Four landing thrusters and a robust stabilization system ensure stable landings in Vale's mountains and forests. Amphibious sealing supports water landings, critical for coastal or riverine missions.
  • Survivability: The composite hull and Aura shielding withstand moderate Grimm attacks, though less durable than Atlasian designs. Countermeasure drones and Ice Dust smoke enhance evasion, ensuring cargo delivery in hostile zones.

I realized I didn't have a vehicle that could transport the Chimera-tank around Remnant, which is a big selling point. So I made one, which fulfills a similar role as heavy lift helicopters in today's militaries. Basically imagine a version of the AV-47 Tigertail that's bigger with four engine pods, and that's a Dragonet. It can also be used as a gunship.

 

[AndrewJTalon]

For worldbuilding I have an idea for a sub-kingdom on the continent of Solitas. This is a government and military that a buddy and I fleshed out for a SWN game that didn't go anywhere and adapted to Remnant, removing anything space-based and replacing psions with Hunters.

Balto: Originally established by exiled remnants of Mantle's army following the Great War, Balto is located to the South-East of Mantle/Atlas, along the coast.

Despite militaristic origins, the government of Balto is split in two between civilian and military leadership.

Civilian government is inspired by an idealized United States comprised of a Senate, Council of Judges, and President. All elected by popular vote for 10 year terms, with a hard single-term limit.

Military government follows a similar model to Atlas with a council, only all members are Commanders and Generals. The military council elects a representative every 5 years to act as "Grand Commander" and interface with the civilian ggovernment. Due to a smaller pool of candidates they do allow re-elections, just not more than 2 terms, and no consecutive terms.

Balto does not emphasize hunters nearly as much as other nations, instead they operate similarly to Atlas with a relatively small but well-trained and well-equipped military. Though hunters do operate in and around Balto, they are treated more like mercenaries.

The Balto Armed Forces (BAF) consist of 6 armies, each specialized for specific tasks.

1st Army: Logistics - These are the pencil-pushers, mechanics, transport, and all other rear-echelon staff that keep a military moving. Still trained and armed to fight.

2nd Army: Medical - Doctors, nurses, psychiatrist, therapists, ect... The medical corps. can fix every ailment short of death. More of a "Do no harm, but take no shit." approach to the hippocratic oath.

3rd Army: Scouts - Land/Air/Sea recon. Snipers. Cartographers and Outriders. These men and women push the boundaries of settled land to track Grimm and other threats.

4th Army: Regular Ground Forces - Infantry, Mechanized Infantry, Armored Cav, Artillery. If a target needs to be softened or captured, the Fighting 4th has what you need.

5th Army: Air Force - Close Air Support, Air-to-Air Combat (dogfighters), Air-Navy. Used primarily for clearing out aerial Grimm and force-projection should Atlas, or anyone else, cast a jealous gaze on Balto.

6th Army: Naval Forces - Patrolling trade routes, culling seafaring Grimm, and fending off more traditional pirates are the norm for these folks.

7th Army: Officially does not exist. This is where the soldiers with aptitude for counter-terrorism, black operations, and all other things best not bragged about, go. Unlike the other armies, these men and women have their Aura awakened as a requirement to join, and they are not trained with Grimm in mind.

Click to shrink...

A did have some ideas for a few more sub-kingdoms that made up Altas/Mantle. In addition to the Republic of Balto:

Rana Niejta: Named for the Sami Goddess of Spring, this nation is Finnish in character with a large native Solitas population that converted to the Tablebreaker religion and formed a constitutional monarchy that joined into the larger kingdom of Mantle.

Midgard: A Germanic/Norse culture with some influence from Mistralian immigrants, it is technically a democracy but has heavy corporate influence at its head. Functionally ruled by its electric company. Uses the name of Earth in Norse mythology and the city from Final Fantasy VII.

Sedna: Based on some aspects of Inuit culture, this former Valean/Mistralian colony became a regional naval power with influence from the Hellenic Confederacy. They were a commonwealth that voted on their kings and command most of the fishing and sea industries around Solitas. Named for an Inuit Goddess.

Hyperborea: A Vacuoan and Valean colony that became a very rough republic with a culture similar to Colonial Spain and Rome. A republic that elected dictators in times of crisis and required all members of the government to be capable of fighting. Some influence from Conan the Barbarian's Cimmerian culture and named for both the land of Conan and the Greek word for a land of "Utter north".

Indrik: The oldest and most advanced civilization on Solitas when it began to be colonized, which is believed to have been a Mistralian/Hellenic colony that interbred with the natives. While it took many wars, it was eventually respected as a fellow power. It advanced into a great monarchy and became a major power. It has however suffered many violent revolutions but it pulled itself back together and became a backbone of Mantle/Atlas, showing incredible resilience against cold, the Grimm, humans and Faunus. Heavily based on Russian culture with the name being of the Russian mythical "King of Beasts" Indrik.

Any thoughts?

 

[AndrewJTalon]

Jaune Arc froze in the bustling courtyard of Beacon Academy, his eyes locked on a peculiar sight bouncing towards him and Ren.

"...Is that Lisa Lavender in a school uniform?" he muttered, disbelief coloring his voice.

Ren, ever composed, glanced over with a slight nod. "Looks like."

Jaune's brow furrowed as the woman strutted toward them, her Beacon uniform improbably snug and her lavender hair barely contained under a beret.

"And… no one's stopping her?"

"Looks like," Ren repeated dryly.

Lisa Lavender, Vale's most relentless reporter, closed the distance with a dazzling smile, her notepad clutched like Ruby clutched Crescent Rose.

"Hello, fellow students! Are you Jaune Arc and Lie Ren?"

Jaune exchanged a wary glance with Ren. Ren gave the barest shrug possible before Jaune answered.

"...We are."

"Can I have a moment of your time?" Lisa chirped, her voice syrupy sweet. "Just to confirm some rumors? Since I'm a transfer student I wanna stay on top of the social sea!"

Jaune sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "We know it's you, Ms. Lavender."

Lisa's jaw dropped, her composure crumbling.

"Wha—But—My disguise is perfect!"

"I mean, it's very…" Jaune hesitated, his face flushing, "um, sexy, but that's also the problem since you're clearly not a teenager."

Somewhere, Cinder Fall sneezed, her own undercover schemes momentarily disrupted.

Lisa's confidence faltered, but she rallied with a desperate edge.

"Oh, come on! Look, I need a case. A story. I'm desperate here!" She leaned closer, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper.

"I'll even let you touch my boobs?"

Jaune's eyes widened, his hands flailing in panic.

"N-No thanks! I mean, it's—Uh, no!"

Lisa tilted her head, batting her lashes.

"Oh? Are you sure~?"

"Very sure! I-Ren?" Jaune turned, only to find empty air where his teammate had stood moments ago. "Traitor," he grumbled under his breath.

Lisa, undeterred, whipped out her recorder, her reporter's instincts kicking into overdrive.

"Sooo… You're the leader of Team JNPR, with Pyrrha Nikos on it. How's that going for you?"

Jaune shifted uncomfortably.

"Fine, thank you."

"Are you and Pyrrha romantically involved?" Lisa pressed, her pen poised like a dagger.

"Wha—No!" Jaune sputtered, his cheeks flaming. "Of course not! We're just friends!"

Lisa held up a stack of grainy photos, her grin wicked. "Are you sure? She's definitely hugging on you a lot in some of these!"

"She's holding me up after training!" Jaune protested, his voice cracking.

Lisa's eyes gleamed as she pivoted.

"All right, what about you and local bad girl, Yang Xiao-Long?"

"Also friends!" Jaune said, his patience fraying.

"Her little sister, Ruby Rose?"

"FRIENDS!" he shouted, his voice echoing across the courtyard.

The interrogation dragged on, Lisa firing names like bullets—Blake, Weiss, Nora, even Velvet. Jaune's responses grew increasingly frantic, each denial more emphatic than the last. Finally, she threw a curveball.

"And your father and Isabel Arc?"

Jaune blinked, utterly baffled. "Happily married!"

Lisa snapped her notepad shut with a triumphant flourish.

"Okay, that's all I need! Thanks, Jaune! See you again soon~!"

"Haha, yeah, I don't think so," Jaune said with a forced smile, waving back at her nervous.

He sagged with relief, wiping sweat from his brow as she disappeared behind a pillar.

"Phew… Finally. It's all over," he muttered. He had been as boring as possible, and truthful. What would she possibly make out of that?

That evening, Teams JNPR and RWBY sprawled across the common room, laughter and chatter filling the air as they unwound. Jaune was on the couch, reading through the latest issue of X-Ray and Vav. Ruby collapsed next to him, sighing in exhaustion.

"Scoot over, gimme," she mumbled, scooting up against him to read the comic over his shoulder. Jaune chuckled and patted her shoulder.

"What a week, huh?" Jaune asked. Ruby groaned.

"Ugh… Tests are evil. Pure evil."

"Tell me about it," Jaune chuckled. Pyrrha was trying to play a video game with Yang, and losing. Pyrrha's eyebrow twitched even as her smile remained.

"One more round," Pyrrha stated.

Yang looked over at her.

"Uh, Cereal Girl, you all right there-?"

"One. More. Round," Pyrrha said tightly, her smile downright terrifying. Yang coughed.

"S-Sure! Sure!"

Jaune winced.

"It's amazing that Yang can bring out her competitive side," he muttered.

"She can bring all sorts of things out of other people," Ruby giggled.

Weiss was eating some candy while reading a book. Blake was reading across from her. Weiss sighed and finally looked up at Blake.

"I will admit the prose is… Good. The narrative is well constructed and the characters are well defined… But…" She blushed deeply. "Is… Is all the smut necessary?"

"Erotica," Blake said flatly, "And while I admit I can appreciate the classics, is The White Whale really something you need to read three times over? It feels rather dated in many ways."

Weiss sniffed.

"Oh, a story about the dangers of obsession. I can see why you would miss the point."

Blake and Weiss began to argue again. Ruby giggled.

"Like clockwork," she murmured.

"Yeah," Jaune sighed. Ren and Nora were cooking. Well, Ren was cooking. Nora was hovering around, eagerly awaiting his latest pancake-based creation.

Jaune smiled and leaned back. This? This was what it was all about. These happy moments at peace with all his friends.

The holoscreen, which was showing the end of some trashy TV show that was serving as background noise, switched to Vale National News, and Lisa Lavender's polished voice cut through the room like a siren.

"Lisa Lavender of VNN! Our top story: Is Beacon Academy a hotspot of teenaged debauchery?" Several images of various students with their eyes and faces blurred appeared, including Jaune, Weiss, Pyrrha, Yang, Blake, Ruby, and Ren.

"Excerpts from a student reveal he is in a polyamorous relationship with his team, another team, and a boy on his own team! In this newscast, we will explore the spicy and steamy underbelly of Vale's elite Hunter training school!"

"Oh… Shit," Jaune muttered.

His eyes widened and his face paled as his friends' heads all swiveled toward him. Pyrrha's game controller clattered to the floor. Yang choked on her soda. Weiss's face paled in unfathomable rage as Blake's jaw dropped. Nora cackled uncontrollably, while Ren, the traitor, merely raised an eyebrow.

Jaune slowly looked to Ruby, hoping for some kind of help. No such luck: She was staring intently at him, her face caught between confused and appalled.

"Jaune? What did you do?"

"...Fuuuuuuuuuck!" Jaune groaned, burying his face in his hands as the common room erupted into chaos, Lisa's broadcast blaring on, oblivious to the storm she'd unleashed.