Disclaimer: I don't own RWBY and Tales of Berseria they are the rightful property of RoosterTeeth and Bandai Namco.

Italics are thoughts

Bold and Italics are flashbacks

Neo's character short: Purpose

How long has it been, how long has she's been walking. The little girl could barely give another step. It was too cold and the snow storm wasn't helping, even with the cloak she had in. The coldness was piercing right through and into her body rendering her immobile. Her short multicolored hair was barely visible due that it was frozen, her body shaking. If this keeps up she will die. In fact it was a miracle she was still alive under this temperature. Her ears perked up hearing a faint sound in the wind. A Grimm, that was the last thing she needed. If she wasn't going to die from the cold, a Grimm would finish the job. Wait, it didn't sounded like one of those creatures, it was barking. A dog, she saw the animal heading her way. And that was all she could take as she finally hit the ground. The dog was big and hairy colored brown and white, he gave her face a few licks before barking again. Someone arrived seeing the canine along with the person.

"Dad!"

"I told you not to get too far from the farm!" shouted an upset voice in the distance.

"There's a girl! She needs help!"

She finally closed her different color eyes losing consciousness and it all got black.

The little girl trembled as she didn't know where she was. So dark and a humid smell, water was she in a cave. The poor thing was wearing a pair of white rags covered in dirt and bare foot. Not remembering anything, only when she was taken by unknown people. She wasn't alone as there were more than one person present. What do they want with her and where were the other kids. Last thing she remembered were many children her age getting dragged by these strangers. One was behind her, making her gasped. The other was before her, just a shadow like a ghost. Fear were on her multiple colored eyes.

"This one can't speak."

"Good, we don't have to hear her whining and crying. Already a favorable trait."

"The last one died from exhaustion."

This made her gulped.

"He died because he was weak. Crying for his parents when they were never there for him to begin with. Still, I have a good feeling about this one."

"We'll start with the basics. So better be ready for anything little one."

"Your life is on the line. If you fail, you die."

She stood frozen in fear not knowing what these people wanted. She opened her mouth but it was such a silly gesture knowing she was mute.

"Are you afraid? You should be. You're about to go through hell. However if you survive, you will be well rewarded."

"Let the training begin."

She was hit in the stomach landing on the ground as she coughed blood.

"Never let your guard down. That will be the first lesson."

Eyes snapped opened, as she rise from wherever she was. She blinked, she was in a bed in a room. The bed felt so warm and good as her cold temperature dropped. A candle lit on a small wooden table making her have a better look at the room. Not that big but it was enough for her. Someone arrived, it was the same boy she saw before fainting looking around the same age as her. He had short orange hair with dark eyes wearing a blue vest with long white sleeves, gray shorts with long gray boots. The boy left to tell that she was awake. He returned shortly with two people. One was a man looking in his mid twenty's with short orange hair, dark eyes wearing a long sleeve white shirt dark green shorts below the knees and gray boots. The second was a woman looking the same age as the man long brown hair reaching to her back. Wearing a blue and purple jacket with a pink and white dress with brown boots.

"Look who's finally up" smiled the man.

"Hi, I'm Ronnie. Are you all right?" asked the boy.

"Give her some space first" replied the woman walking over to the girl.

She was shocked as the was pulled into an embrace. The feeling was so unnatural, she was never hugged where she's been. She doesn't even remember how she left that place. The cold and the hunger was messing with her head. At least the cold was gone replace by warmness. The woman broke the hug smiling at her, caressing her hair face.

"She's the one who said to give her space" muttered the man while the boy hold his laughter.

Unfortunately she heard him giving him a warning glare that put him in his place. She went back to stared at the little girl with a warm smile.

"You poor thing, it's a miracle you were able to survived being on the cold for so long. If Ronnie hadn't found you, you wouldn't have made it."

"Actually, it was Dodger who found her" Ronnie smiled as the hairy dog arrived licking his face.

The girl only smiled for their kind gesture. True, a minute longer and she would have frozen to death.

"Bet you like it here more?" the man smiled" all warm and cozy, away from the mean snow storm."

She nodded happily. It was actually the first time she has ever felt joy. Where she used to be was definitely not a happy place or the things they would make her do. This was a nice change, surrounded with kind people.

"Now, why on Remnant were you out there little lady?" asked the man.

All she did was signaled to them pointing to her mouth and throat. Enough to give the family the idea.

"You can't speak?" the woman felt so sorry for her, already growing fond of her.

And suddenly her stomach gave a loud roar. It has been a while since she has eaten something. Now that she was all warmed, she needed food big time. The man gave a chuckled.

"Someone's hungry."

"And right on time. I'm about to serve suffer. I'm Jade by the way" the woman finally introduced herself.

"Ronnie sweetie, why don't you help me set everything up?"

"Right! See you downstairs!" the boy smiled leaving the room.

The dog Dodger decided to stay by the mute's side getting on her bed. He licked her making her smiled.

"He really likes you. Dodger has a gift to know people who are trustworthy."

How she wished she could talk. So she could thank him properly for saving her life and taking her into their home.

"No need for thanks" he read her mind" we're glad to have you just in time."

There was something about this young man that made her feel safe. Like she can put her trust in him no matter what.

"Oh dear, you already know my wife and son but you don't know me. Roman Brunswick, pleased to meet you."

She nodded smiling.

"What's your name?"

She stood silent, she has never had a name. All the small children that were with her didn't either. Roman could somehow tell what she was thinking. She was a sweet kid, that's for sure.

"What about your home, your parents?"

She shook her head.

"That's a real shame. Or maybe not, if you have nowhere to go you're more than welcome to stay with us. I can tell Jade already likes you."

Her eyes widened for a moment as a smile spread her features. Tears emerged as she suddenly gave him a hug. Happiness, grateful to be alive, to be here.

"Now, we need to give you a name. I'm not going to be calling you girl or little lady neither would Ronnie and Jade" he stared at her as he smiled again" what is with your eyes and hair? You look like a Neopolitan ice cream."

The girl blinked not having a clue what was that. Is that a place, a weapon, a dish.

"That's it. Neo, do you like it?"

She nodded as she petted Dodger.

"All right. From now on you'll be call Neo. Now, before you head downstairs for suffer you should get rid of those things that are supposed to be clothes and take a bath. Jade has already place a towel and some clothes. They're not from a five star department store but it sure beats that…." he pointed to the torn and dirty dress she was wearing.

Jade returned upstairs to check on the mute once suffer was ready. She helped her with anything she needed. Neo gave herself the bath, which she loved. Warm water, getting rid of all the dirt in her body along with getting rid of those horrible rags she's been wearing for as long as she can remember. Now she was wearing a long green shirt that reaches below the knees. It actually belongs to her son but that's all they have. Not like they had clothes for girls. With some brown bear fluffy sandals also that belong to Ronnie. It didn't took them that long to join the others downstairs to the table where the food was ready. Roman and Ronnie hadn't touch it yet, waiting on them. It was bad manners to start without everyone. Dodger was also present but he was already devouring his food. The young boy chuckled seeing the mute girl wearing his clothes and sandals. It made her pout a little but ignored him because she was starving.

They gave a small prayer as they started eating. Neo's table manners was a disgrace eating with her hands. The poor girl took the food like there was no tomorrow. The rest of the family stood shocked at how fast she can with her hands. Faster than their own dog. Looks like Jade will have to teach her how to use the fork and knife later. Once her hunger has calmed down, she was hearing the conversation started by the family. She was in a place called Brunswick Farms. It got her attention named after Roman's family. He shrugged it aside that he wasn't the owner of the place. It belongs to Bartleby and his family. He and the man were such good friends that he decided to give his farm his second name. Roman was flattered but he knew he wasn't the boss. Only fourteen people lives in this small settlement. Well, fifteen counting Dodger and the mute girl sixteen.

"So, honey" started" I told Neo she can stay with us as long as she wants."

"That's great, I don't have to be an only child anymore!" smiled Ronnie.

"Neo? At least she knows her name."

"Actually no. She didn't had one, I named her that after Neopolitan ice cream."

Ronnie laughed at this while the muter girl saw no problem with it. She like it, period.

"Seriously Roman. You named her after an ice cream?" Jade sweat dropped.

"She likes it, that's what counts. And look at her, her hair and eyes. She's the personification of the dessert."

Neo nodded she was happy with it.

"Besides, Neo Brunswick has a nice ring to it."

"She can stay with us. I don't have a problem. But we have to tell Bartleby."

"Already on it. Tomorrow morning I'll let him know. Maybe he can get her better clothes from his daughters."

"Neo, sweetie would you like seconds?" offered Jade.

She quickly nodded she couldn't have enough of her delicious cooking.

The next day, everyone awoke early when the sun was slowly showing it's face. Roman went ahead to his friend's home before they would their Winter chores. Telling the owner everything that happened. Finding Neo on the outskirts, almost at the brink of death, before saving her and taking into his home. Bartleby and was more than happy to help him. Deciding to talk to his daughters if they can spare some of their clothes for the new member of the family. Jade brought the mute girl to the owner's house as she was nervous. Not used to seeing other people. She got used to Roman's family but it won't be easy meeting others. Bartleby was a man in his early forties with a brown beard, dark eyes wearing a light blue shirt with a long sleeve white shirt and collar. An orange jacket with long black pants and black shoes along with a straw hat. The mute also met his wife and two daughters that were very happy to meet her.

Neo met Jordana looking in her later thirties wearing a piece of cloth over her short brown hair with dark eyes. A long wine colored dress with white and brown boots. The oldest of the girls was Bea wearing the similar over her brown hair, but it was a little longer than her mother's with long red and white dress and brown boots. The mute girl knew her clothes weren't going to fit her until, she saw the smaller girl. Gina was the youngest looking around the same age as her and Ronnie. Her head cloth was different making it look like something a maid would wear, her brown hair was tied into twin braids. Her long dress was a combination of mint green and white with brown shoes. She was so excited to meet someone around her age to play. And of course, she wasn't bothered to lend her some of her clothes. It was happening so fast that Neo was making friends and having a normal life. It still felt unusual.

Later all the residents were up as they were doing their chores whenever it will snow. Obviously they couldn't run the far with their daily activities under these conditions. Everyone had their metal shovel ready to take as much snow as needed. To the point that the farm is clear of it. So it will be easier to walk, even if more snow was bound to fall. Neo came out wearing a similar dress as Barleby's girls and wife. But it was colored milky pink with white and no head cloth, she didn't like it. Jade left the house putting a cloak and a scarf. The woman was immediately concerned not wanting the mute to get cold again. It surprised the woman she wanted to join Roman and the others. She was too young to be doing work and the children won't play until the adults are done. It was a little hard to understand her sometimes. She met up with the Brunswick who was with a group of people along Bartleby.

Neo met the rest of the people that live in the farm. First there was Hansel, a man in his mid thirties with a dark brown hat, a cut beard with brown hair and dark green eyes. Wearing a green and yellow vest with a long gray trench coat with gray pants and long brown boots. He was a bit of the silent type. Next to him stood a woman looking around the same age with short blond hair and dark eyes. She was a bit on the heavy side wearing a pink scarf, a blue short sleeve shirt with brown leather gloves, light long gray pants and short brown boots. Her name is Gretel. Another was a young man around Roman's age with messy brown hair and dark eyes. Wearing a green vest with a long sleeve shirt and collar, long light brown pants with short brown boots. The mute girl found out he was Bartleby's oldest son Icarus. He has his own house living apart from his family.

The last two were females. One was shorter than the other in her early twenties with short chocolate brown hair and brown eyes wearing a sleeveless green buttoned shirt with a pink sash wrapped around her waist. With long slight yellow pants below the knees with brown shoes. She introduced herself as Akira who used to live at Kuchinashi, which it was very far from where they are. She came here to be away from civilization and live peacefully with her girlfriend. Who was the second and tallest woman named Beth, she was called Betty as a friendly nickname. She was in her late twenties with boy cut short brown hair with a shirt colored red and white on the upper part. With a long orange skirt reaching a little to her feet and gray sandals. Neo didn't know how come they weren't wearing coats or scarf due to the cold. Working out here wasn't exactly a healthy and fun experience.

"Is that her?" asked Gretel.

"She sure is. This is Neo, she doesn't speak so don't bother try to have a conversation with her. You hear me Akira?" Roman smirked.

"Very funny. I admit I talk a lot but everyone likes to keep a conversation while working."

"Every once in a while, not always. You do talk more than the rest of us" Icarus smiled.

"Everyone is against me" she laughed while her girlfriend smiled.

"All right people, you know what to do" Bartleby gave everyone metal shovels" I want all that snow surrounding the farm gone. The sooner we do this, the better."

They all nodded as Neo went to Roman pointing the shovel he was holding. This shocked him. Wait, so did she came here to meet everyone or to help them with work. That couldn't be, she was just a kid.

"Don't tell me you want to help?"

She nodded with a smile.

"No. Sorry but you can't."

"Roman are you really willing to let a little girl do your work for you?" said Gretel.

"Of course not, she's heading back to Jade and Ronnie" he gave her a serious expression.

But the mute has snatched the shovel from him and started removing snow from the houses. The group was shocked at hos fast she was able to work. The shovel was heavy someone on her age should have problems using it. Yet, she had no trouble at all lifting it. They were still baffled at what they were seeing.

"Where did you find her again?" asked Beth.

"I'm as speechless as you all are honest" replied the bewildered Brunswick.

"She's more useful than you" spoke Hansel.

"Oh ha ha, I'll be adding that to your book of jokes. I also have one where I write every single thing you say. Just to let you know, I only have two pages of that book filled" Roman mocked the silent man but he ignored him as usual.

"Bartleby give me another shovel."

"You're letting her work?" this shocked the farm owner.

"Look af her, does she seems like she's having a hard time? If she wants to make herself useful, I won't argue. You always say the sooner the better."

"But she's just a little girl. It is in beyond levels of wrong to make her do harsh labor" argued Akira.

"Go ahead and tell the police. I'll gladly get arrested" Roman being sarcastic.

"You can be a real smart ass sometimes."

"Don't I know it" he smirked.

"Let's just get to work. Roman keep an eye on her. If she gets tire, don't hesitate to send her home" said Bartleby.

He happily nodded while Neo was still removing snow by the dozens.

As Roman joined the mute girl he told her what they do around here when it wasn't the season of snowing. Obviously it was a farm from the title but he told her all kinds of chores every one have to do. Managing the crops, feeding and giving the animals water, cut lawn the grass if necessary, while some of the women will clean the house and make the food. Bartleby's wife and Jade are examples. But they will get help from their kids. Neo was so focused on her work but she was also paying attention to the man. Just from his explanation, it was always busy here. That's good, she didn't mind this kind of labor. Compare to what she used to do, this is nothing. He also told there were two more people living in the farm. Nicholas and Natalia, they were the only elderly couple and obviously they will do the easiest of the chores. At first Bartleby was against it but they argued wanting to do something for his farm so he eventually agreed.

Roman pointed her the house where they live and she nodded. Deciding to give them a visit later. The multi-color haired girl wanted to know everyone. Hours later they were done on the region were they were assigned. It really surprised the Brunswick that the girl didn't looked tire in the least. Just who is she and where does she come from. Could she be a Huntress. He knows Huntsman that have children will unlock their aura and train them before they get sent to a school. Maybe Neo was trained by one explaining her stamina, she might be able to take on Grimm. The man disregarded the thought impossible, there's no way she can fight such creatures. Said creatures would usually come here during winter the most. They will lose so many products and the farm will be useless at this time of the season. Both went to meet with the others and they were finished with their tasks. They were also impressed at the girl keeping up with them.

"Well done, everyone. Onto to the next task, we're running low on firewood. Hansel, Icarus, Roman I'm leaving it to you" said the farm owner.

"We could use some extra protection Bartleby, just saying" spoke the Brunswick.

"Hansel always bring his rifle. That's enough to drive any Grimm away."

"If it's one, I agree. But if it's more than one like a horde. You might never find our bodies."

Bartleby gave a sigh while the rest shook their heads. Neo didn't know what was going on. This wasn't the first time they have gotten into this topic and will end up arguing.

"Roman please, not today."

"Am I the only one who sees your farm a big target for Grimm? Not to mention this location isn't the safest one. We're almost in the middle of nowhere. How are you planning to fix this?"

"Roman stop…." the owner rubbed his forehead.

"He's right" said Gretel" Grimm are very active during winter and we lose more than we can make due to the snow."

"What can we do? We barely have enough to last us the winter. We can't just spend our remaining resources hiring a Huntsman" followed Akira.

"How about we negotiate with the Atlas military? The city of Argus is a few miles away from here. I'm sure we can give them some fresh vegetable or lien if they're willing to listen and give us a few of their men. Or maybe the police. Anything, that can grant us safety at least until winter ends" spoke the Brunswick.

"The Atlas military will only ignore us when they have the responsibility to protect an entire city. And the police will brush it aside of the idea to give protection to a farm, far away from their jurisdiction" replied Icarus.

"Of course daddy's boy has to be the voice of reason as usual" he mocked while the young man glared.

"I hate when this happens" Hansel lowered his hat.

"Why do you always have to act this way?"

"Boys, come on knock it off. Let's all calm down" said Beth.

"We can all calm down when Grimm come knocking on our doorstep. Everything will be all right by then."

"Stop acting so damn paranoid!" snapped Icarus.

"I'm not, I'm simply saying what needs to be done if we want to survive another winter. Does everyone's memory is all blurry because of the storm? Not me, I remembered last year we had a big problem with wings hm...The Manticore that invaded the barn and almost had the horses for lunch."

"That was really scary" said Akira remembering that day.

"Hansel killed it though" followed Gretel.

"What if it was a horde of them? I doubt his rifle will have enough dust ammo for so many."

"Enough!" Bartleby finally had it trying to calm down" our negative emotions will bring Grimm right now. So calm down Roman."

"He has to make a big deal out of everything" commented Icarus.

"You want to know why I have to make a big deal of this?" the Brunswick sounded calm now.

Neo stood listening her eyes were only on the man who named her and decided to take her into his home.

"I didn't asked to have the farm named after me and I don't deserve it. That's why I want to earn the honor by doing the right thing. This farm, all of you, our survival is what matters the most. It's the sole reason we moved here and you built this place. We want to live in peace away from noisy societies. But we can't do that if we're in danger. We can't always hire Huntsman, okay let's try something else. Anything that can help us and give us the security so we can sleep in our cozy beds at night without worrying what will pop out from the snow. This is for all of you, Akira and Beth so they can see another day happy together, Nick and Natie what's left of their lives, you, Jordana, Gina and Bea keep them safe too. And I have my wife, my son, my dog and now Neo."

The mute girl's eyes widened as they were shinning when he mentioned her name.

"They're my family and it's up to me to protect them, all of you. Because if I don't, it wouldn't really be Brunswick Farms right?"

That said he left with Hansel following him and shortly, Icarus. Neo wanted to go with him but she was stopped by Akira telling her to return to Jade and Ronnie. She really wanted to go, but gave a nod heading back to his house. Bartleby stood in thought giving a sigh in return.

Neo returned to the house only to be received by a big hug from Jade. She has been waiting for her wanting to show her something. While Roman was out searching for firewood, the woman wanted to make the new member of the family happy. Ronnie was doing his chores with Dodger keeping him company. The woman lead her to the cellar. The girl stood wide eyed, there were so many things from art, furniture and toys. It was strange that it was all cleaned, expecting for everything to be covered in dust. That is until Jade told her that she always keeps the place clean, that explains it. There weren't that many things that got her attention maybe some of the art the rest, just didn't interest her. Something did caught her multi-colored eyes that was on a box. A beautiful pink parasol she was afraid of touching it before it was taken by Jade. The woman smiled holding it.

"It's pretty isn't it? It's mine. I had it since I was little."

The mute stood in thought. It was very pretty she felt attached to it. But it already has an owner so there was nothing she could do.

"Do you like it?"

She nodded.

"Why don't you take it?"

Multi-colored eyes widened gazing at the woman.

"I haven't use it since I was a kid. It's better that you take it rather than letting it stay here."

Neo smiled as she handed her the pink parasol. She opened it while spinning it really liking it.

"It looks good on you. You can keep it."

The mute was still unsure if she should take it just like that.

"You're part of this family now sweetie. Consider it a gift."

The little girl closed the parasol sniffing, tears emerging. She hugged the woman feeling so happy it's like she belongs here all along. Jade smiled hugging her back, even if it's been almost a day she already the mute as her daughter.

Weeks passed and so did the months. Neo has never been so happy as she grew closer to the people of the farm. Specially Roman's family, she has come to see them as her family too. For once she felt complete, she felt whole, she felt like she had a purpose. When she was with those people her only purpose were to take orders and do the job. No questions, just do it. She was empty, like she had no heart. In due time she came to realized what she needed, what she wanted. A purpose, not one that was forcefully brought upon her but one that she would yearn for without realizing it. A family, people that will care for her and be there for her when she needs them. She will constantly play with Ronnie and Dodger with his many toys. Helping Jade with her chores, spend time with Roman almost the entire day. And before bed time, Jade will read her and Ronnie a bed time story.

It wasn't just the Brunswick family but she got along with the rest of the residents. Whenever she will help them with the farms chores during the winter. Gretel, Beth and Akira got close with her admiring her strength and dedication to the work for someone so for her age. It was truly where she belong and she was able to call this place, home. Yet there were many times when she will see Roman and Bartleby arguing about the same topic. Security, protecting the farm from the Grimm. Icarus will obviously side with his father, agreeing with anything he says outnumbering the man. It was getting tiring to see them all the time talking in a bad mood. But eventually, Roman would stopped not wanting to bring negative emotions and remain positive. Asides from that, living her was perfect for the mute girl. She never thought it will go so wrong and it will never be the same. One night is all that it took. Her life changed but most of all, Roman's.

It was almost at the end of winter Neo woke up with a bad feeling. She took her parasol always feeling same whenever she had it, leaving her room and heading downstairs. Her intuition will never go wrong as she went to take a peek at one of the windows. Multi-color eyes widened, outside there was a Grimm. Big and hairy, she didn't know if she can take it on but she didn't thought twice. Because it wasn't that far from the house she immediately went to wake up Roman. The couple woke up at the same time seeing the mute girl signaling him with a scary face and hands imitating claws. No further explanation was needed as the man knew what she was talking about. He told his wife to leave quietly and wake up the others. Make sure not to be afraid or the creature will sense it. Neo followed Roman as he went to Ronnie's room, Dodger was already on high alert knowing the Grimm was here. He told his son to stay in his room and not to leave no matter what.

After, both went downstairs he had no need to tell the mute girl to stay with his son. Her expression was deadly serious and it was clear she was planning to stay by his side. If she can do hard labor at her age, she can sure fight. Though, a parasol wasn't exactly the best weapon to use. The Brunswick check the kitchen for anything he can use for such. At least, until Hansel wakes up and picks up his rifle. Thank goodness it was only one. A knife, it will have to do for the time being and it was very sharp too. The man was surprised when Neo signaled him to stay behind her. Carefully opening the front door and heading for the corner where large creature stood. The mute noticed that it probably hasn't noticed them. From it's behavior, it must be looking for food. It's target will most likely be the animals, or themselves if they confront it. If it didn't know, they have no need to fight it. They just have to wait until the others arrive.

"Please, don't let anything happen to them" Roman prayed to anyone in the sky listening.

"Dad!"

The man and girl gasped. That was more than enough to get the Yeti's attention. It jumped through the wooden fence gaze at the window to Ronnie's room. The boy was panicking as Dodger was barking ready to attack. The creature jumped destroying the window and part of the house. Roman was ready to lose his mind while Neo charged in jumping high to reached the second floor. The multi-hair girl engaged the Grimm dodging and blocking the strong attacks as Dodger went to her aid. A smack from the creature send the canine to the ground. Ronnie went to his side noticing it was hurt. The Yeti growled but it got hit by the numerous attacks from Neo using her kicks and parasol. It was just too big and strong to bring down with simple hand to hand combat. And without dust it will be impossible to defeat it. The mute girl fought her best but she ended getting hit, as she hit the wall hard still conscious.

"Dodger…." the boy was in tears at the wounded dog.

The Yeti's gazed fell on the helpless boy. Neo went at it again as her aura was healing her wound. Attacking the back with some quick blows. Roman arrived charging with a glare at the Grimm holding the kitchen knife. No way that thing was hurting his son and dog while he was still standing. But the Grimm has proven to be stronger as it attacked both, they were on the ground hurt. The mute was barely standing, seeing that Ronnie was forzen in fear. She wasn't going to make it, neither his father. Giving a growl the Yeti charged right at the poor boy opening it's large mouth filled with sharp fangs. Dodger suddenly got in front of him as it go ripped in half by the dark creature. Ronnie screamed seeing his canine friend killed right before him. And he was next until Neo grabbed the knife from Roman's hands and stabbed it a couple of times. Not enough to kill it.

"Dad…." he was still in tears.

"Ronnie, get out of here find your mother, Bartleby everyone. Just leave the house!"

"I'm not leaving without you!"

"DO AS I SAY!"

Neo kept on stabbing the Yeti with the knife but it wasn't going down. It was tougher than it looked. Even when she was on it's back and holding on not to fall off. Time seem to have stopped when the creature has suddenly went straight at the boy. Roman's eyes widened trying to move from his injury. Not fast enough to react and he watched the unthinkable happened. The Grimm has eaten his son, munching it before swallowing him. For a moment the Brunswick stood frozen as he thought this was one horrible dream. It wasn't happening, he was still on his bed sleeping with his wife next to him. The mute girl was in tears as she jumped from the creature and took the man out of the room and downstairs. Jade arrived shortly telling them, the others were on their way. Then she asked about her son which her husband didn't replied. The woman was horrified, covering her mouth, tears emerging.

"Roman…?"

The man dead silent as the Yeti was about to eat him next. Neo used all her strength to keep on stabbing but the creature send her to the wall again. She was hurt but refused to give up. Roman was still in denial, frozen. Jade was doing her best to snap him out of his trance. The mute girl tried to protect them seeing she wasn't going to make it. Time stopped once again for Roman Brunswick as the claws of the Yeti penetrated the flash of his wife, stabbing her in the chest. The blood was everywhere. Roaring the Grimm threw her like a rag doll. Now it was his wife fatally wounded with so much blood. And he snapped as he screamed in pain. First his son, his dog and now his wife. Holding her tears Neo took the man out of the house while the Yeti was following them. It was there, the creature met it's fate. Four gun shots hit it's chest, two more hit it's head. One more and the Grimm fell to the ground dead vanishing in black smoke.

Hansel stood with his rifle in hand, the tip blowing smoke. Bartley and the rest of the residents were present. They were shocked to see the wounds on Roman and Neo. Looks like they came just in time. That's what they thought at first. The man ignored everyone as he went back to the house and knelt at Jade's body. She was still alive, but she has lost too much blood. When the others entered, they all gasped. They were indeed too late. He was in tears taking his wife into his arms while Neo felt horrible with herself. Not even with her training, she was able to stop that Grimm. No one said a word as the Brunswick was sobbing taking her hand and she was trying to tell him something. It wasn't long before Akira and Grete started wondering where was Ronnie and Dodger. They received a glare from the mute girl as she was also in pain. She just lost the only people to consider as family.

"R-R...Roman…." she coughed blood.

"Don't talk, save your strength sweetheart. It will be all right, try to hold on" the man was ready to break down.

"R..Ronnie…?"

He only shed more tears holding her, kissing her cheek.

"I...I didn't got a chance to say goodbye to my son…."

"Neither did I…."

Neo was still in tears. This was her fault, if only she was stronger that Yeti would have never gotten closer to them.

"You're not strong, yet. But you will be in time."

He was right, they were right. She might have passed the training and did a couple of missions. But she wasn't strong enough to take on bigger threats. That Yeti was really tough even with all the times she stabbed it with the knife. Roman must hate her so much. For failing to protect his family when she swore to protect them. What to do now can she really look at him after what just happened. The others didn't know what to say except watched as Jade stopped struggling, life leaving her. She died with her eyes opened. All he could do is sobbed and hold the woman in his arms softly crying her name. Bartleby told everyone to leave the house and give Roman space. As they did, so Neo. Angry with herself for not being strong enough to save them. Hanzel volunteered to patrol the farm in case there were more Grimm.

An hour later they have buried the three in the backyard of the Brunswick house. Jade and Dodger were the only ones with bodies to fill the graves, Ronnie wasn't so lucky. No one couldn't say a word because they knew Roman was beyond devastated with this tragedy. Neo never left his side, wanting to still by his side even if he will hate her. The orange haired man has remained silent since Jade's death. His dark eyes were empty, soulless like life them when they left his family. All they could do is just stood there in his moment of need. But some words needed to be said. Everyone knew Jade, Ronnie and Dodger they were part of this big farm family. The names were already written on the grave stones as Bartleby finally decided to say something. The man slowly approached him trying to comfort his friend. Even if his mind was empty except, to say sorry for his loss.

"Brunswick Farms...Doesn't a have a nice ring to it. For years we have lived all the way here. I grew up and raised here by my old man, listening to his rants to never go to any big cities. Better to leave isolated with people you can rely on. I believed him and it's true. Because I trust all of you, all my life I have busted my ass for this place. To keep it running, producing while cursing silently whenever winter will come because it ruins everything we have worked so hard for. They love it here too" the orange haired man pointed to the three graves.

"I look up to all of you even you Hansel. But most of all…." Roman turned to the owner" you were the one I trusted the most. Sure, we have our ups and downs but what's friendship without it's bumps on the road, right? You know what I'm willing to do for this place and all I wanted in return is for you to set aside your damn pride and listen to me for once!"

"Roman-" Icarus started.

"Don't start taking daddy's side! How many times have I told you that we need to create defense measures, security like a huge fence that covers the whole farm? That will prevent any Grimm from entering not that perfect since flying ones will still get in, it's a start. And how many times I answered that if we can't provide a Huntsman then saving our resources for creating the fence will do for the time being. Until we earn more so we can hire one. It's a miracle this place has hold up for so long."

"It's because we have work together that this farm is still standing" replied Bartleby.

"You have the nerve to say that...Tell it to THEM!" he pointed to the three graves.

"I understand you're angry and hurt but-"

"But nothing! They're gone, my wife, my son and my dog are gone and they're not coming back! While you guys were waking up from your comfy beds Neo was risking her life fighting the Grimm, that's right she fought it and got hurt! But she still kept on fighting it! She did more than any of you. Do you know how embarrassing that sounds? Let a child do the job of killing a Grimm. I will not give credit to Hansel. Neo was the one who saved my family till the last moment. And all of this happened because you refused to listen to me. This is on you. You're the only one to blame. I wonder who will be next before you actually do something? Will it be Akira or her Beth, will any of them get eaten by a Yeti or get rip in half? Or the old farts who are still sleeping with all the racket that took place and my screaming?! How about your big boy? Always kissing your ass because he's such a good boy-"

"That is enough Roman! I will not stand and continue to listen to you insulting my family" glared the farm owner.

"At least you still have a family...For now. You don't take my advice and no one else has the nerve to tell you what to do because they don't have the balls make you see your wrongs. You flaws like the rest of us and I was the only one who with the balls to say it in your face. This...Is proof that everything I have on this farm has been for nothing. It has been a waste of my life to do the work, to live the nice and honest way of life. But don't get angry Bartleby because of your screw up, I have made up my mind. In fact, it's something I should have done a long time ago."

Everyone saw the intense glare on his features. Neo was able to read his mind. Who would want to continue living in the same place where someone lost his family. This place had too many good memories and the bad ones overcome those good ones. She like it here but after what happened, she doesn't want to be here either.

"I'm done with you Bartleby, with all of you, with this place. I don't see this farm lasting twenty years. You will never listen and learn so I doubt you will do a thing from letting Grimm knocking on your door. I'm leaving and Neo is coming with me."

The mute girl immediately nodded taking his hand.

"Can't say I will miss any of you" with that he took off going back to the house with the little girl still holding his hand.

Roman packed his things and left without a word. The irony, that nobody try to stop him. Not a single attempt to convince him to stay. Like he could care less. Without Jade, Ronnie and Dodger this was no longer his home. He packed everything in a suit case leaving the house, the snow was starting to melt indicating the end of the season. The orange haired man didn't gave a single glance at the place that used to be his home. He suddenly realized Neo wasn't holding his hand. The multi-colored haired girl stood holding the pink parasol as if she was on the brink of tears.

"What's wrong? You want to stay?"

She shook her head as she suddenly teared up. Roman only hugged the girl.

"It's not you fault if that's it. You were brave and you went through incredible lengths to protect them. I will never forget your efforts Neo. From now on, it will just be you and me. You're the only family I have left now and I want us to stay together."

She nodded in tears as he broke the embrace, she pointed the parasol.

"Keep it. Jade gave it to you as a gift, it's yours. I'm surprised you were able to fight using it. Never thought a parasol can be a deadly weapon. You can sure make it work."

She smiled as they kept on walking.

"It's strange, I never ask you how can you fight at your age? You're no ordinary kid."

The mute only shrugged her shoulders with a smile. Roman only gave a small chuckle deciding that it stays a secret if that's what she wants.

And they left Brunswick Farms leaving that place behind forever. They went to Mistral to find some jobs in order to gain some money to travel. They didn't stay that long in the capital of the kingdom. Roman wanted to get as far away from Anima as he could. They had enough lien to travel to Sonus and arrived at the capital of Vale. Eventually the orange haired man decided to have sparring matches with Neo in order to learn a few moves. He needed to defend himself not wanting the mute girl to do all the fighting for him. Specially, not after making his mind of what to do with his life. It was going to be a new beginning for Roman. Angry and devastated at his loss he came to the conclusion that working hard and the fair life wasn't meant for him. So, he sold his soul to a life of crime. He erased his past and his last name embracing his new self. He became the thief Roman Torchwick.

After ten years he made quite a reputation for himself. Becoming one of the most wanted criminals in the four kingdoms. Considered armed and dangerous. Though he wasn't the killer type, he was the thief kind. No need to get your hands bloody when all that matters is getting your hands filled with lien. Neo was always with him, aiding him, being his partner in crime. She didn't care if he was breaking the law, she will help him until the end. Be there for him when he needed help. Because just like him, he was the only family she has left. Until one day, he stopped calling her. She used her scroll to write him demanding why he chose to leave her behind. He was doing crime stuff without her and she saw it as an insult. And she found out eventually why the orange haired man didn't called her. Looks like he got himself into a situation that could only spell trouble.

Neo jumped from a railing on an abandoned building where she's supposed to meet up with her supposed" partner". The seventeen year old still had her parasol while giving it an addition that the tip will release a sharp blade. Wearing her corset, boots, and many necklaces. Torchwick stood with his white suit and bowling hat giving the multi-hair and eyes girl a nervous smile. How she wanted to smack him for not contacting her and avoiding her too. She was tapping her right foot waiting for that explanation or she will heads will be rolling.

"I bet you're not happy."

That was an understatement as the mute girl glared and wrote something on her scroll. When he showed it, Roman sweat dropped at the message. Nothing but curse words.

"Okay, you're angry I get it. But it had to be done. I'm working for someone, not the trusting kind I can't stand her. Turns out she also has a leash on the White Fang and all she wants is to steal dust. Don't give me a lecture, I know when I'm in a bind. Our new associate hasn't given any more details of what's planning. But as long as we get pay nothing matters. Just another job."

Neo kept her glare writing on the scroll and showing him the text.

*If it's just a job then why did you keep me out of it?

"I had my reasons. You know I care for you, you're not just my partner in crime but my family. I don't want you near that woman, she's like a King Taijitu wicked and poisonous. Hope someone kills her when this all over. That is, if she's not planning to stab in the back when I least expect."

The ice cream themed girl's eyes narrowed, over her dead body that will happen.

"Easy, I'm just kidding about the stabbing me in the back part. Though she could definitely go for it. That Cinder is really the rotten apple of the tree."

The mute kept tapping her foot waiting a further explanation from the thief.

"Wondering why I need you now? My partnership with both parties has lead to some" inconvenience" in other words annoying brats. It's been getting harder lately to steal dust when these kids think they can be heroes show up and ruin everything. Worse part, the White Fang aren't the ones who will get the blame for the failure, it's me! Call it a hunch that I haven't seen the last of them, little red and her merry band of Huntresses. As usual I need to watch my back just in case. And also, keep an eye on Cinder I don't trust her one bit."

By now the girl wasn't that upset with him as she nodded. It was good to be back in business. She type one more thing on her scroll.

*What will you ever do without me?

"Good question. I might be lost without you. Family is always important. You will be there when I need you."

She nodded again with a smile.

Neo was piloting the Altesian ship she disguised with her semblance that was originally a ship from Mistral. The girl kept gazing ahead as she continues to travel to Atlas. Aware that she was being used like a pawn now that she has become the Fall Maiden after killing Cinder. Roman was right about the woman all along. She was truly wicked and ill intentions. Even when she changed her plan she never thought of helping him escape from that Atlas ship. That's why he ended up in prison in the kingdom's capital. Why didn't she saw it sooner, she should have help him when she had the chance. None of this would have happened. Cinder's allegiance went deeper than she and Roman thought knowing of the existence of Salem. How big this situation is, more than stealing dust. But if she can see him again, it will make the trip worth it. After all, he was his only family.

He is her purpose.

End

-It's amazing how a single fan theory and one picture can give you so many ideas to give an unimportant character some depth and background.

-That's right I went with the fan theory that the man with the orange hair from the Brunswick Farm portrait is Roman, and his real name is Roman Brunswick. The woman and kid close to him, I decided to make them his wife and son Jade and Ronnie. Dodger the dog I made him up.

-I intended for Neo's character short to be the longest for obvious reason. I will be explaining Neo's background more at v7.

-So yeah another character that experiences a tragedy in the past. I guess I want to explore more of Torchwick's character. Losing his wife and son and realizing honest work doesn't pay off it's the best excuse I can give to explain why he decided to live a life of crime.

-To clear it up Roman was 26 and Neo was 7 when he found her. Ten years passed he's 36 going to 37 and she's 17 going to 18.

-I'm still angry at what Miles said at the RWBY panel from that con. Apparently the reason the whole faunus/discrimination plot was set aside in the story is because he's young and white. So this finally gives us an answer to the long question to why RT has done a horrible job at showing faunus discrimination throughout the show. He called it" too ambitious" so what? I'm guessing because he's white he can't write a good story either. Kerry is probably the same. I'm not white, I'm latino but I know what discrimination is and I can write a story about it. I can show faunus being treated like crap. I can imagine the other writers giving him suggestion like" why don't we do this to make the story more interesting" and he replies" no we can't it's too ambitious we're white". Seriously I'm done with my rant. This is why I'm not hype for v8. I swear if Team RWBY beats Salem I will drop the show. Salem is suppose to win and destroy Atlas period. It has to be a defeat for the good guy, something worse than the fall of Beacon.

-Replying to reviews:

*Sweetdesire2002- what are the two questions? I know it's been a while but I forgot. Your other review shows your questions and damn...I am at a loss for words. They're good questions and hard to answer. I guess it all depends on Velvet and Laphicet's character and the impact they have had on the RWBY characters. Along with JNPR they have become very close to them, that they see them more than just friends but family. Ruby is trying to become more like Velvet independent, smart, selfless putting others before herself. Laphicet also helps in the aspect because he's the same as his older sister. Weiss, Blake, Yang, Jaune, Ren and Nora they have all become more independent because of the Crowe siblings. Qrow, Ozpin and Oscar have also changed for the better because of them. Don't know about Raven though. It's like you take these two characters and try to make a connection with the characters of the crossover show. But to do that you have to make them bond with them to create that connection. The bond gets slow development to the point that they care a lot for the siblings. Right now RWBY and JNR will do anything to protect Velvet and Laphicet. Qrow, Ozpin and Oscar will get to that point too. Other characters like Winter have come to respect Velvet as an equal due that she has a little brother like she has a younger sister. Ironwood respect her too because of her resolve and determination. A trait he can describe himself. Anyway for me the tipping point of that bond escalated when Velvet told them her past. Even after all the bad things she did, they still forgave her and they still trust her. Also their reactions when they found out she was in a coma and when they reunited with her after she woke up. To me this is something you can't rush, it takes time. The same goes for the ships. Jaune/Velvet needs slowburn development otherwise, it will feel unreal and won't have that special bond. I want to make it as real as possible. The same goes for other ships in the story. Hope this help and now I need to rest my brain lol.

*TheEmeraldMage- thanks for liking Cardin's short hope you like Neo's.

-With this I'm done with all character shorts. Now it's time to wait again for fall for v8 and let's see how much worse RT can screw it up and how better I can make it lol.

-Just a little heads up the next chapter of the Paladin and the Guild Heroes will be uploaded this Friday.

-Off topic Corona virus that's all I have to say. It has spread from China, to Europe, to North America it's basically everywhere now it's probably in my country even if there hasn't been any cases of infected yet. Just please try to remain calm don't listen to media, they are only making things worse wanting people to panic. Just follow the instructions given by experts. Always wash your hands before touching your face, nose, eyes etc, always cover your mouth when coughing. Try to remain in your home since they have basically canceled everything from trips, them parks, music concerts, school, work etc. The swine flu was worse but eventually it died out. It will take a while for this virus to die out so make sure to follow the instructions and remember not to panic.

-As always thank you very much for the favs, follows and reviews I really appreciate it.

Next time: A new approach