I'll be your favorite things.

But she also knows that Neo is much more cautious, more analytical than any of the other ladies she's shared her love with. Beyond her unique and enrapturing style, she was a witty woman. A woman who loved a show, and knew every aspect that went into making it a success.

And Pansy's always wanted to be a star, outshining the rest with both her beauty and brains. But, more than that... the thought pf thousands of eyes, full of adoration for her, applause rippling through auditoriums for her performance- it was heavenly.

She's more than a little desperate, yes, but not just for love. The spark of novelty, the winds of change that feed fires that burn brighter than the sun beating down on them. She's sick of this dull, soul-crushing routine, acting like being a maid makes her happy.

But, just as Neo kept her cards close to her chest, Pansy decides to not bear much more of her own heart.

"Not everyone carries themself with the same level of purpose, you know," she answers, already knowing Neo's question. "People that want something greater than what a single nation can offer. A dream that will take months, if not years, to realize."

She traces the outlines of the symbol with care, doing the same with the name displayed. "While I won't pretend to know what you're after, or what's brought you here, I know that most plans work better when you work together. And as proficient as you are, everyone has limits."

She slides the card back to Neo, before leaning closer. Not close enough for a kiss, but enough to make sure she takes up most of Neo's vision. Cementing a spot for herself in the criminal's mind, as she holds up 4 fingers.

Her expression isn't severe, but full of conviction. Lowering her voice, like she's sharing a secret.

As they listened to Pansy, the illusionist's smile widened; a soft huff escaping by their nose.

No one that didn't know them could really imagine what they were after, but they seemed to be so full of confidence, that the comment about plans working better when together got them to chuckle silently.

Ah, right…Roman used to think that the job was better done when alone, but then she appeared in his life and…it's all just a matter of finding the fitting partner- it was almost ironic how Neo was starting to think like the old Roman.

Her experiences with Cinder weren't exactly the best, after all. She felt way more efficient just working on her own, and yet…the moment that Pansy scooted closer, Neo's half-lidded eyes kept staring at the other woman.

Mismatched hues fixated and without trembling- she didn't mind the distance nor was she scared or anything.

Right, I know better than anyone that I shouldn't judge a book by its cover. It would've been hypocritical to do so when she knew just how many times others have misjudged her, because of her size and the like.

She couldn't go around and do the same. Pansy was showing kindness by sharing part of how her Semblance worked with her, but she really shouldn't take this for granted, nor should the illusionist assume they knew this is all Pansy could do.

Nodding gently, to show that they understood, the illusionist picked the previous business card and then flipped it between gloved fingers, before poking Pansy's shoulder with it, offering it once again.

Thank goodness, my hope wasn't misplaced, after all!

Pansy perks up at Neo taking the card back, curious about its contents. Once it was offered to her again, she looks at the numbers with a pause. Pondering what they'd be for, before a mental light bulb springs to life.

She offers a warm smile, taking out her own scroll and messaging Neo's number.

. . .

⋆𐙚₊˚⊹ ᡣ𐭩_princesspansy_⋆𐙚₊˚⊹ ᡣ𐭩

• Thank you kindly, love. 😊💗

. . .

Killing two birds with one stone, as they say. Establishing their mutual exchange, and expressing her gratitude. For trusting in her heart, even if her words were clumsy.

"This should be a reliable form of contact, no? Now, if you ever need a hand, I'll only be a message away!"

Her cheerful expression falls at the sound of another message incoming, and a reminder that she wasn't truly exempt from her responsibilities.

. . .

🙇‍♀️🫶Mother🫶🙇‍♀️

• break is up. time for work, penny 🖐

. . .

Her semblance deactivates, her shoulders slumping as the aura drain kicks in. A wave of tiredness courses through her veins like a lazy river, signalling that she'd need to save what energy she has for the last 3 hours of her shift.

"I suppose this will count for my 15 minutes, then..." She sighs, her eyes returning to their natural hue. Standing up from her seat, as a disappointed frown tugs at her lips. "I hate to cut this conversation short, but well, the day's errands summon me once more."

She offers a grateful smile nonetheless, keeping her head high for the oncoming evening.

No, instead, Neo's reaction only fuels her further. Not only because she's precisely what Pansy's focused on, but because this means that there will be more chances for them to see each other. To relax and chat just like this, perhaps explore the world once Salem is out of the picture.

This was only a fraction of the lengths she could go for someone. But, she reminds herself not to put all her eggs in one basket.

"Thank you, it's a rather useful Semblance, is it not?" She rests her head in her chin, before her gaze shifts back to the table. Looking at it's surface, tracing a memory that's surfaced with her fingers. "It's won me my fair share of admirers, assuming my radiant presence wasn't enough already. It surfaced when I was small, and I practiced it nearly every day. Even when it grew dark outside. Mother would beckon me back for dinner, but..."

She meets Neo's gaze again, her glow becoming brighter. "It was worth it, if it meant I could share this power with someone. The most I can do right now is just you and I, but... if I can fine tune my concentration to its fullest potential, I could see myself reaching... about 3 other people. Any more than that, and I'd have nothing left for myself!"

She lets out a laugh at that, before she clears her throat and stops her mind from wandering. Her semblance falters for a second, the light returning to its former faint shine.

It was still wise, however, to not give everything to the mute outright. Only those who've had their hearts broken by the criminal knew that the woman tended to be more prone for a one-night stand before disappearing.

It's the moment Pansy starts talking about her Semblance in detail, though, that the mute raises an eyebrow before staring with half-lidded eyes, interested in the topic but also, dangerously paying attention to the things she was saying.

Sure, they could be very much lies, but so far, the things she was saying also coincided with what was happening at the moment.

Careful about sharing information of how your Semblance works, dear. Someone could use it against you.

Maybe they couldn't speak out, but their gaze and those gloved fingers rhythmically tapping on the surface of the table were enough to tell that something was going through Neo's own mind.

Analyzing her, from top to bottom. She had to admit that Pansy had some firm confidence.

After a hum escaped her lips, Neo leaned back and crossed her arms, letting her smirk return, but confusion invaded her expression before she could shrug her shoulders. She was questioning Pansy- why would she lend her aid so easily, when they've just met?

That aside, the mute uncrossed her arms, and after flipping a hand, a card seemed to appear between her fingers, one she would then slide in Pansy's direction.

…a business card.

It had Neo's name on one side, 'Neopolitan' could be read in a big font, engraved and shiny with her three main colors, while the back simply seemed to have her symbol.

But she also knows that Neo is much more cautious, more analytical than any of the other ladies she's shared her love with. Beyond her unique and enrapturing style, she was a witty woman. A woman who loved a show, and knew every aspect that went into making it a success.

And Pansy's always wanted to be a star, outshining the rest with both her beauty and brains. But, more than that... the thought pf thousands of eyes, full of adoration for her, applause rippling through auditoriums for her performance- it was heavenly.

She's more than a little desperate, yes, but not just for love. The spark of novelty, the winds of change that feed fires that burn brighter than the sun beating down on them. She's sick of this dull, soul-crushing routine, acting like being a maid makes her happy.

But, just as Neo kept her cards close to her chest, Pansy decides to not bear much more of her own heart.

"Not everyone carries themself with the same level of purpose, you know," she answers, already knowing Neo's question. "People that want something greater than what a single nation can offer. A dream that will take months, if not years, to realize."

She traces the outlines of the symbol with care, doing the same with the name displayed. "While I won't pretend to know what you're after, or what's brought you here, I know that most plans work better when you work together. And as proficient as you are, everyone has limits."

She slides the card back to Neo, before leaning closer. Not close enough for a kiss, but enough to make sure she takes up most of Neo's vision. Cementing a spot for herself in the criminal's mind, as she holds up 4 fingers.

Her expression isn't severe, but full of conviction. Lowering her voice, like she's sharing a secret.

When she receives that disgusted expression as an answer, though, she gives a sheepish chuckle.

"Ah, I suppose that's not too surprising. Not many revered huntresses rush through bars and slice through bandits like a gust of wind." She rubs the back of her neck, averting her eyes. "Mother was the same way, though these days she's more indifferent about the ordeal. When you've had so many adventures, it's only natural you'd want to slow down for a while."

In a way, she's relieved at Neo's response. While Remnant could be quite the dangerous world to be a part of, the more recent disasters striking 3 out of the 4 nations had her torn.

To become a huntress, train to become a stronger fighter and protector of not only the ones she loves, but save countless lives. Heaven knows there's been too much lost these past few years, and even the recent news doesn't lend to a brighter outlook.

Or, to still cling to that one dream she's had since she was small.

To open up her own retreat, a paradise full of her own designs on display, pastries by the counter with edible decorations behind their windows. Sewing machine corners for people to bring their own ideas to life. A boutique café, where everyone could find rest, relaxation, and maybe even love.

As guilty as she may feel for not leaning full force into the former... can't she have both?

She can tell the woman next to her is keeping her cards close to her chest, but she knows better than to pry into someone she's just met.

Another lesson she's learned from her past, when she was much less experienced in courting women. Naïve, and much more susceptible to bending over backwards just to please someone who would go on to ghost her.

She just hopes she's not falling for the same trap this time.

Still, it couldn't hurt to make herself known, especially when she knows exactly what she can bring to the table. Figuratively, and literally.

Once Neo materializes the air conditioner for the two of them, Pansy decides to activate her own semblance. A soft pink glows from her chest, the shape of a heart outlined above where the organ itself would be, before filling slowly like a glass of rosé.

She holds her heart close in her hands, before she blows it towards the air conditioner, the shape splitting into smaller versions of itself. Scattering like the petals of a flower, catching the breeze and dissolving into the manifestation of Neo's semblance.

Keeping her concentration, as both her own aura and Neo's pause. Her eyes faintly glow, as she decides to return some of the smugness she'd been met with.

On the other hand, it was very true that it was huntsmen who were protecting the world as they could at the moment, but Neo has seen Salem in person- she's seen what she's capable of, and she's aware of the witch's immortality.

They would need more than just huntsmen to stop her…and not all of them were like Ruby Rose.

As she was right now, the illusionist didn't even have the most enticing goal to live. She could've perfectly agreed to just live in the Ever After forever -at the cost of what sanity she had left-, but she didn't know if her plan to get Cinder away from Salem to teach her true freedom would success or, if there would be a world left at all to continue living for Roman, because she knew Roman would kill her himself if she was to give up now.

Live for the rush of the chaos, she thought, but there was still a void inside her chest that would be difficult to fill.

Neo seemed to be almost melting on the table, not clear if bored or simply tired and drained from the temperatures despite the new AC they materialized. But upon noticing Pansy using her own Semblance, they perked up and squinted their eyes, clearly observant to analyze what was happening in front of them.

Very flashy and very pink; blinking once at the sight of those hearts that vanished almost like petals.

At first, they had to admit they didn't notice what changed afterward, but the moment Pansy explained herself, a very soft hum escaped the mute's lips as they kept the information.

Right, that was useful. Nowadays, creating something as simple as an AC was easier and less draining than creating a living being, so maybe that's why they didn't notice it at first, but if this was the case, that meant Neo's limits got as broken as when they were in the Ever After, and that was definitely something they would want to remember.

She wasn't going to materialize a stupidly large mansion here in the middle of the park but, her interest was definitely caught, so she couldn't help but grin at Pansy with mischief.

No, instead, Neo's reaction only fuels her further. Not only because she's precisely what Pansy's focused on, but because this means that there will be more chances for them to see each other. To relax and chat just like this, perhaps explore the world once Salem is out of the picture.

This was only a fraction of the lengths she could go for someone. But, she reminds herself not to put all her eggs in one basket.

"Thank you, it's a rather useful Semblance, is it not?" She rests her head in her chin, before her gaze shifts back to the table. Looking at it's surface, tracing a memory that's surfaced with her fingers. "It's won me my fair share of admirers, assuming my radiant presence wasn't enough already. It surfaced when I was small, and I practiced it nearly every day. Even when it grew dark outside. Mother would beckon me back for dinner, but..."

She meets Neo's gaze again, her glow becoming brighter. "It was worth it, if it meant I could share this power with someone. The most I can do right now is just you and I, but... if I can fine tune my concentration to its fullest potential, I could see myself reaching... about 3 other people. Any more than that, and I'd have nothing left for myself!"

She lets out a laugh at that, before she clears her throat and stops her mind from wandering. Her semblance falters for a second, the light returning to its former faint shine.

So much so that when Neo's hand moves to adjust her scarf and collar, Pansy's gaze follows. Curious, and a little something more. Something she will have to save for another diary entry gushing about the fantasies filling her mind.

The stretch and slap of the suspender causes warmth to flood to her cheeks, before Neo's shrug and smirk earn a bright laugh from her.

"Ahahaha! My oh my, for someone who likes to stay silent, you certainly love to show off," she giggles, though her tone gives away how endearing she finds Neo so far. "Your act must be the performance of a lifetime, from what I've seen of you today. I imagine you could be the most marvelous dancer, if you so chose!"

Her eyes look away from Neo, smile fading into a frown as she recalls her last days of living in Vale. The emergency alarms, the calls for evacuation, crowds flooding onto planes and ships to safety.

Watching smoke surround the city from a window, still shaking in her seat from the growls of Grimm in the streets. Her Aura drained, nearly losing a leg before her mother saved her.

"I'd love to go back once it's safe, but..." She sighs, tracing a finger along the wooden lines on the table. "It's a shame that Vale's fallen into such disarray, especially Beacon. I remember wanting to attend at some point, but... Mother's not fond of institutions like that. Perhaps I'd dodged a bullet, not going."

In a way, it was like saying goodbye to her childhood. Vale had been her home for her entire life at that point, even with annual Mistral visits to see her father. Her friends from Beacon were naturally devastated at its downfall, no amount of fighting enough to prevent its collapse.

Ironic, if she'd known just who exactly she was talking to, perhaps she'd be a lot more on edge. Maybe even frightened, having seen firsthand that Neo had outmatched her in every single way.

But, Pansy never knew when to quit, for better and worse. Once she'd formed an opinion on someone, it was difficult to sway it. Besides, she wasn't one to just blindly believe in evil people.

She grew up knowing the compassion that criminals were capable of, after all.

Looking up at Neo, she's already made a mental note of Neo's sharp gaze. Trying to get a read on her, in much of the same way she's been trying to learn more about Neo. She can only hope she's making a good impression.

Yet, keeping people confused until they realized that she simply wasn't capable of it, had become a pass-time when it came to meeting new people. Some didn't even really question it, really.

They were a show-off, however, and they couldn't help but wink at Pansy after the compliment, tipping the frame of their top hat instead after trying to get comfortable on their seat.

…still hot despite the attempt to look for shade in this park.

Because Neo was assuming Pansy was a civilian from Vale, it would've been too violent to find out that Neo was actually a wanted criminal that helped with making the fall of Vale's be possible. Yet, even if they did help with it, they felt some kind of void inside their chest whenever they remembered.

Perhaps it was because some time ago, Roman was her home, so it would've been enough to be wherever Roman was. But with the redhead's death and Vale's destruction, Neo had literally no place to go back to.

Last time she heard something about Vale, is that Salem destroyed it while everyone was away. The last survivors were here, too- Remnant was really going through some kind of apocalypse at the hands of that scary immortal witch.

Nonchalantly, Neo finally used her Semblance and materialized a floating air conditioner in front of them both. Functional without the need of power aside of the one of her Aura, and treating it as if it was the most normal thing of the world.

It was the next question coming from Pansy that made her raise an eyebrow, before she shrugged her shoulders and shook her head. With how their expression to be almost one of disgust, one could assume they weren't exactly too fond of the position.

When she receives that disgusted expression as an answer, though, she gives a sheepish chuckle.

"Ah, I suppose that's not too surprising. Not many revered huntresses rush through bars and slice through bandits like a gust of wind." She rubs the back of her neck, averting her eyes. "Mother was the same way, though these days she's more indifferent about the ordeal. When you've had so many adventures, it's only natural you'd want to slow down for a while."

In a way, she's relieved at Neo's response. While Remnant could be quite the dangerous world to be a part of, the more recent disasters striking 3 out of the 4 nations had her torn.

To become a huntress, train to become a stronger fighter and protector of not only the ones she loves, but save countless lives. Heaven knows there's been too much lost these past few years, and even the recent news doesn't lend to a brighter outlook.

Or, to still cling to that one dream she's had since she was small.

To open up her own retreat, a paradise full of her own designs on display, pastries by the counter with edible decorations behind their windows. Sewing machine corners for people to bring their own ideas to life. A boutique café, where everyone could find rest, relaxation, and maybe even love.

As guilty as she may feel for not leaning full force into the former... can't she have both?

She can tell the woman next to her is keeping her cards close to her chest, but she knows better than to pry into someone she's just met.

Another lesson she's learned from her past, when she was much less experienced in courting women. Naïve, and much more susceptible to bending over backwards just to please someone who would go on to ghost her.

She just hopes she's not falling for the same trap this time.

Still, it couldn't hurt to make herself known, especially when she knows exactly what she can bring to the table. Figuratively, and literally.

Once Neo materializes the air conditioner for the two of them, Pansy decides to activate her own semblance. A soft pink glows from her chest, the shape of a heart outlined above where the organ itself would be, before filling slowly like a glass of rosé.

She holds her heart close in her hands, before she blows it towards the air conditioner, the shape splitting into smaller versions of itself. Scattering like the petals of a flower, catching the breeze and dissolving into the manifestation of Neo's semblance.

Keeping her concentration, as both her own aura and Neo's pause. Her eyes faintly glow, as she decides to return some of the smugness she'd been met with.

However, not only is Pansy not normal in one of the better ways, but Neo's half-lidded gaze—combined with that toss of her hair to show off— only makes Pansy more confident in her choice to chase after her.

Besides, she was right! Neo really did like the drink! Because she's never wrong when it comes to her judgement of character. She's never wrong or biased, ever.

Kidding, but the point stands that Pansy is very proud of herself nonetheless. Perhaps even hearing a crowd in her mind applauding her for doing so well at the task of pleasing a woman.

At Neo's agreement, the barely-contained gleeful smile she's wearing becomes a pleased hum that rises out of her.

"Marvelous! Goodness, it's been ages since I've been able to leave work early, I thought I'd surely starve from the stagnation!" She puts a hand to her forehead, before giggling at her own bit. "Come along! The faster we're out of this sun, the better!"

. . .

The moment they finally reach one the aforementioned picnic tables in the park, there's only a handful of people still about. Some were children who still wanted to play with their friends, others were adults who were waiting for someone they knew.

All this to say, while the two of them do earn a few curious glances and suspicious stares, the onlookers opt to leave them be. They have their own business to worry about, after all.

Pansy had pulled out a folding fan of hers, the soft pink lace and embroidered design expanded just wide enough to shield her hair. Upon finally reaching their spot under the trees, she sighs with relief.

"Here we are!" She looks back at Neo as she takes a seat, placing her own drink on the table. While the ice has since melted, the dessert's ingredients have also swirled together in the sweet shake. "You can have the rest of mine if you've run out, by the way. I've been to enough cafés in the area to know where they keep the water coolers."

That, and she knew if she finished this one, she'd want many more.

She pushes her drink forward, as she leans forward to rest on the soft wood. She decides to open with the most obvious realization she's made, with the longer she's looked at this woman.

"You're from Vale, are you not? I noticed that parasol you carry has a similar stitching style to the types of designs I'd seen in some of the boutiques there. The straight stitches, that is." She begins, relaxing as she feels much more in her element, with the topic. "I know I've used it before in some of my clothes, but well, it's distinct when compared to the running threads and geometric patterns you'd see in Mistral, for example."

Realizing she's venturing too far from her actual curiosities, she clears her throat. "But, my point being... I don't think I've ever seen you or even heard of you before."

After taking another sip from her drink, the woman passed the back of their gloved hand by their lips, and then sighed in relief, following Pansy to the park.

···

Once in there, the first thing the illusionist did was look all around themselves, scanning the place, the few people that were here and there, and making sure that once they sat on the picnic table alongside Pansy, their spot would let them see the surroundings better.

If her illusory tail was visible it would've been swinging its tip to the sides, alas, they made sure they were stable enough for that to not happen here.

Now, she had finished her drink even before sitting her ass down, so she didn't hesitate to also accept the leftovers of Pansy's one if she didn't want it, taking it for herself and downing the whole thing as if it was no one's business.

They were thirsty, but most of all, since they came back from the Ever After and they suffered through that possession, it almost felt as if their body grew more tolerant to alcohol- which was an advantage to her, all things considered.

…was it that easy to know she came from Vale? Honestly, anyone with a keen enough eye should be able to tell, so Neo nodded softly when asked, then looked at her parasol when it was mentioned. And it was only after, that they narrowed their eyes while staring at the other, recognizing that Pansy seemed to know what she was talking about.

Someone interested in fashion? It seemed so. Then again, it didn't help Vale seemed to be a little nest for fashion designers, but it was still appreciated.

Once she finished the drink, she pushed the other glass aside. Then, after passing one of her hands by Hush to carefully trace its surface material, Neo fixed the gray neck scarf and collar of her top; a thumb going to one of her suspenders. Stretching and letting it slap back to her shoulder.

They were trying to show off a little about their clothes, trying to make Pansy know that not only was the parasol a special gift that they designed but ALSO, their clothes were designed AND made by them. They didn't sell stuff like this in stores, for sure.

Afterward, however, the illusionist shrugged their shoulders and rolled their eyes, before setting on smiling smugly and nodding to the mention of liking to lay low.

So much so that when Neo's hand moves to adjust her scarf and collar, Pansy's gaze follows. Curious, and a little something more. Something she will have to save for another diary entry gushing about the fantasies filling her mind.

The stretch and slap of the suspender causes warmth to flood to her cheeks, before Neo's shrug and smirk earn a bright laugh from her.

"Ahahaha! My oh my, for someone who likes to stay silent, you certainly love to show off," she giggles, though her tone gives away how endearing she finds Neo so far. "Your act must be the performance of a lifetime, from what I've seen of you today. I imagine you could be the most marvelous dancer, if you so chose!"

Her eyes look away from Neo, smile fading into a frown as she recalls her last days of living in Vale. The emergency alarms, the calls for evacuation, crowds flooding onto planes and ships to safety.

Watching smoke surround the city from a window, still shaking in her seat from the growls of Grimm in the streets. Her Aura drained, nearly losing a leg before her mother saved her.

"I'd love to go back once it's safe, but..." She sighs, tracing a finger along the wooden lines on the table. "It's a shame that Vale's fallen into such disarray, especially Beacon. I remember wanting to attend at some point, but... Mother's not fond of institutions like that. Perhaps I'd dodged a bullet, not going."

In a way, it was like saying goodbye to her childhood. Vale had been her home for her entire life at that point, even with annual Mistral visits to see her father. Her friends from Beacon were naturally devastated at its downfall, no amount of fighting enough to prevent its collapse.

Ironic, if she'd known just who exactly she was talking to, perhaps she'd be a lot more on edge. Maybe even frightened, having seen firsthand that Neo had outmatched her in every single way.

But, Pansy never knew when to quit, for better and worse. Once she'd formed an opinion on someone, it was difficult to sway it. Besides, she wasn't one to just blindly believe in evil people.

She grew up knowing the compassion that criminals were capable of, after all.

Looking up at Neo, she's already made a mental note of Neo's sharp gaze. Trying to get a read on her, in much of the same way she's been trying to learn more about Neo. She can only hope she's making a good impression.

Maybe she's saving her voice, after recovering from illness. Or perhaps she's selectively mute?

Either way, she internally curses at her lack of knowledge regarding Remnant sign language, having picked up a book about it once out of sheer boredom. Use it or lose it, as they say.

At Neo's gesture and smile, her eyes widen, before blinking away whatever embarrassing thought had flocked through her mind. A few sheepish giggles spill out from her throat, trying to laugh it off.

Oh no, I'm going to scare her away! Come now, Penelope, you know how to act normal!

"Right, right! It's not wise to accept drinks from strangers, especially ones with booze. Here, I'll demonstrate!"

Upon realizing that she didn't bring any spoons or straws, and not really thinking through it any further, she takes the drink that Neo has pushed towards her...

...and not only eats the whipped cream and topping, but decides to take a good swig of the drink, going the extra mile to prove that she was trustworthy.

The rich yet sweet flavor of the coffee mixed with the chocolate and marshmallow was as light as air, but the rum that followed immediately rushed to her head. She sputters a bit, feeling her head ache with brain freeze, before exhaling and taking a smaller sip.

And not accounting for the whipped cream on her nose.

"There! It's the type of beverage you'll absolutely adore if you've got a sweet tooth! But, ah, the rum is less noticeable with smaller sips. The taste is phenomenal, though!"

She clears her throat, afterwards, figuring that honesty would lend her well to win Neo's favor.

"Most people know me by Penelope, but you may call me Pansy. I did want to thank you for your help back there, but... I was also curious about you." Her tone begins to even out, organizing her train of thought. "You seem so unique, especially with your fighting and fashion style! I haven't seen an outfit like that since my days in Vale!"

She offers the untouched drink to Neo, tilting her head.

Most people here in Vacuo ignored them whenever they entered one of the many bars and shady taverns of the kingdom. They've been trying to avoid coming face to face with the few that actually would recognize them, so maybe letting this woman get any closer would put them at risk.

…however. She was also bored and lonely, so she tried to relax her expression and slowly raised both of her eyebrows at once, that mixed with her half-lidded eyes made her look a little condescending, in a way.

Ah, she would reach one of her gloved hands to accept the drink- it didn't even take her long to take a sip, because truth was that, she was thirsty as hell.

Sighing softly, she passed her tongue by her teeth and lips. Pierced tongue, really in style with the many she had in her ears, but still no words at all aside of a soft groan once she cleared her throat.

…no words despite opening her mouth a bit as if she was doing so. Neo would let the free hand pass by their hair instead while staring at Pansy- proud and trying to show off while accepting the compliments, and a wave of their hand in company of a soft nod, to accept the offer to the picnic area in question.

However, not only is Pansy not normal in one of the better ways, but Neo's half-lidded gaze—combined with that toss of her hair to show off— only makes Pansy more confident in her choice to chase after her.

Besides, she was right! Neo really did like the drink! Because she's never wrong when it comes to her judgement of character. She's never wrong or biased, ever.

Kidding, but the point stands that Pansy is very proud of herself nonetheless. Perhaps even hearing a crowd in her mind applauding her for doing so well at the task of pleasing a woman.

At Neo's agreement, the barely-contained gleeful smile she's wearing becomes a pleased hum that rises out of her.

"Marvelous! Goodness, it's been ages since I've been able to leave work early, I thought I'd surely starve from the stagnation!" She puts a hand to her forehead, before giggling at her own bit. "Come along! The faster we're out of this sun, the better!"

. . .

The moment they finally reach one the aforementioned picnic tables in the park, there's only a handful of people still about. Some were children who still wanted to play with their friends, others were adults who were waiting for someone they knew.

All this to say, while the two of them do earn a few curious glances and suspicious stares, the onlookers opt to leave them be. They have their own business to worry about, after all.

Pansy had pulled out a folding fan of hers, the soft pink lace and embroidered design expanded just wide enough to shield her hair. Upon finally reaching their spot under the trees, she sighs with relief.

"Here we are!" She looks back at Neo as she takes a seat, placing her own drink on the table. While the ice has since melted, the dessert's ingredients have also swirled together in the sweet shake. "You can have the rest of mine if you've run out, by the way. I've been to enough cafés in the area to know where they keep the water coolers."

That, and she knew if she finished this one, she'd want many more.

She pushes her drink forward, as she leans forward to rest on the soft wood. She decides to open with the most obvious realization she's made, with the longer she's looked at this woman.

"You're from Vale, are you not? I noticed that parasol you carry has a similar stitching style to the types of designs I'd seen in some of the boutiques there. The straight stitches, that is." She begins, relaxing as she feels much more in her element, with the topic. "I know I've used it before in some of my clothes, but well, it's distinct when compared to the running threads and geometric patterns you'd see in Mistral, for example."

Realizing she's venturing too far from her actual curiosities, she clears her throat. "But, my point being... I don't think I've ever seen you or even heard of you before."

All this to say, that once she spots Neo leave alongside the other ruffians who'd tried to serve her head on a platter, she knows she still has an entire half of her shift to finish. She still hasn't even served those who'd been waiting patiently for their meals.

And yet, Pansy never was one to leave any new fascinations to wither and die. No, she wanted to know more about this woman. Who on Remnant she was, where she'd come from, what brought her here of all places?

But she's also not foolish enough to think that Neo would just blindly trust in her benevolence- hardly needed to relearn a lesson from her past. Rather, she simply rushes behind the bar with all the speed of a maiden on a mission.

Her mother is taken aback, raising an eyebrow as she watches Pansy grab an assortment of dessert ingredients in the span of seconds. "Penny, what are you doing?"

"I'll explain later! I need that coffee cocktail recipe stat!"

Confused, yet curious, her mother simply hands her a familiar sheet of paper. Knowing her daughter was likely trying to express another one of her many epiphanies, she decides to take the tossed tray instead. Let her work her magic, so to speak.

. . .

A few minutes after Neo's headed outside for a smoke, Pansy rushes out the door, looking for her. "Wait, wait, where-?!"

Looking around with frantic panic, at the thought of losing track of the fighter in question, her eyes brighten once she finds Neo strolling not too far from the bar. "Ah, there you are!"

She strides over to her, holding two iced cocktails. The sweet scent of chocolate mixed with coffee, marshmallows, and rum traveled through the air, even with the undeniable heat of the sun. In fact, both of the glasses she was holding were already starting to collect condensed droplets on the outside.

Honestly? She wasn't exactly used to catch the attention of someone to the point they had the necessity of chasing after them, not in a bar after a fight, anyway, so when they noticed that the lady of the bar was actually looking for them, the criminal raised an eyebrow and then turned around, giving Pansy their full attention.

Her head tilted, and she raised an eyebrow, even frowning softly out of confusion before mismatched hues fell onto the offered cocktail.

By The Brothers…that smelled REALLY good, and looked even better, but just as Neo was going to raise one of their hands to pick one of them, they retreated it and smiled, taking a step back.

She pointed at her own lips with a pair of fingers, then rested them against the glass that was offered to her, and gently pushed it in direction to Pansy.

Maybe she's saving her voice, after recovering from illness. Or perhaps she's selectively mute?

Either way, she internally curses at her lack of knowledge regarding Remnant sign language, having picked up a book about it once out of sheer boredom. Use it or lose it, as they say.

At Neo's gesture and smile, her eyes widen, before blinking away whatever embarrassing thought had flocked through her mind. A few sheepish giggles spill out from her throat, trying to laugh it off.

Oh no, I'm going to scare her away! Come now, Penelope, you know how to act normal!

"Right, right! It's not wise to accept drinks from strangers, especially ones with booze. Here, I'll demonstrate!"

Upon realizing that she didn't bring any spoons or straws, and not really thinking through it any further, she takes the drink that Neo has pushed towards her...

...and not only eats the whipped cream and topping, but decides to take a good swig of the drink, going the extra mile to prove that she was trustworthy.

The rich yet sweet flavor of the coffee mixed with the chocolate and marshmallow was as light as air, but the rum that followed immediately rushed to her head. She sputters a bit, feeling her head ache with brain freeze, before exhaling and taking a smaller sip.

And not accounting for the whipped cream on her nose.

"There! It's the type of beverage you'll absolutely adore if you've got a sweet tooth! But, ah, the rum is less noticeable with smaller sips. The taste is phenomenal, though!"

She clears her throat, afterwards, figuring that honesty would lend her well to win Neo's favor.

"Most people know me by Penelope, but you may call me Pansy. I did want to thank you for your help back there, but... I was also curious about you." Her tone begins to even out, organizing her train of thought. "You seem so unique, especially with your fighting and fashion style! I haven't seen an outfit like that since my days in Vale!"

She offers the untouched drink to Neo, tilting her head.

She offers a warm smile in return, always proud to have her contributions appreciated. Really, she'll never say no to praise.

Unfortunately, it is enough to distract her from channeling her Semblance proper, causing a familiar wave of tiredness to seep through her bones. While she hadn't used enough of her Aura for the fatigue to be anything concerning, she does flinch at the sound of a whistle being blown by the bar's main counter.

Her mother, with her taller stature and heavy bags beneath her eyes, lets go of the item and lets it hang from her neck. She clears her throat, monotone, yet with a clear edge of annoyance.

"If you wanna keep this scuffle going, take it outside. Business isn't gonna save itself."

The group of bandits open their mouths in protest, before the older woman cracks her knuckles and sneers at them like a viper's eyes slitting at the sight of fresh meat. All of them, knowing full well they'd lost this battle, haul off both of their leaders.

Pansy, however, couldn't be more relieved that finally, those scoundrels were out of her hair. Always eager to see her mother's huntress skills in action, she rises back up with a flourish.

"Oh, thank goodness! Thank you, Moth-"

"Back to work, Penny."

She shrivels up, her cheeks flushing upon realizing the reality of the situation. Even if she was rightfully defending herself, the other patrons wouldn't see it that way. She clears her throat, rubbing the back of her head. "R-Right… my apologies."

Her mother simply sighs, shrugging as she goes back to mixing drinks as usual. Pansy, on the other hand, begins to sweep up and clean the mess on the floor. Though, this doesn't stop her curiosity about the other woman who'd clearly scared everyone into silence.

Still not used to her heightened senses, the mute would even groan softly before covering one of her ears with the free hand, looking around herself before letting go and, listening out of respect.

Fun stopped too soon, jeez. And here I didn't even have the chance to order a drink.

She tries to relax her shoulders, but she's still alert, adjusting the top hat on her head and…while she doesn't intend to keep fighting with these guys outside, the short woman doesn't want to stay inside this place anymore, either, silent as ever and moving so swiftly to get outside the bar alongside the men that decided to flee.

If her cat ears were visible at the moment, they could've probably perked up at the mention of 'Penny'. A funny coincidence, really, but one that doesn't stop Neo from stepping outside either, into the annoying weather of Vacuo once again.

Ugh, the temperatures are horrible. She hates sweating so much despite having made sure the fabric of her clothes was light, but perhaps wearing a corset wasn't the smartest of ideas when she knew she had to come back here.

Oh well, beauty is pain.

Seemingly making Hush disappear, Neo would focus on pulling out her pack of cigarettes instead, picking one of them before looking for Roman's old lighter.

She was in no rush, so it's not like she was walking too fast, taking her time to light the cigarette and leave it against her lips; cloud of smoke escaping by her nose.

All this to say, that once she spots Neo leave alongside the other ruffians who'd tried to serve her head on a platter, she knows she still has an entire half of her shift to finish. She still hasn't even served those who'd been waiting patiently for their meals.

And yet, Pansy never was one to leave any new fascinations to wither and die. No, she wanted to know more about this woman. Who on Remnant she was, where she'd come from, what brought her here of all places?

But she's also not foolish enough to think that Neo would just blindly trust in her benevolence- hardly needed to relearn a lesson from her past. Rather, she simply rushes behind the bar with all the speed of a maiden on a mission.

Her mother is taken aback, raising an eyebrow as she watches Pansy grab an assortment of dessert ingredients in the span of seconds. "Penny, what are you doing?"

"I'll explain later! I need that coffee cocktail recipe stat!"

Confused, yet curious, her mother simply hands her a familiar sheet of paper. Knowing her daughter was likely trying to express another one of her many epiphanies, she decides to take the tossed tray instead. Let her work her magic, so to speak.

. . .

A few minutes after Neo's headed outside for a smoke, Pansy rushes out the door, looking for her. "Wait, wait, where-?!"

Looking around with frantic panic, at the thought of losing track of the fighter in question, her eyes brighten once she finds Neo strolling not too far from the bar. "Ah, there you are!"

She strides over to her, holding two iced cocktails. The sweet scent of chocolate mixed with coffee, marshmallows, and rum traveled through the air, even with the undeniable heat of the sun. In fact, both of the glasses she was holding were already starting to collect condensed droplets on the outside.

Oh no no no, what have I done?!

She's brought out of her panic by the sight of a woman she's never seen before. Hair split into waves of rose pink on the left and deep brown on the right, with streaks of white on one side. Her heterochromia even matched her general color palette, but on opposite sides. Complete with key lime pie green eye shadow.

Not only that, but this woman had managed to take down Pansy's assailant, who was twice her size, in such a swift manner. It was almost unbelievable, yet admirable.

If these were better circumstances, Pansy would be begging her to share her strategies. But no, this was not a place of peace.

Her thoughts are interrupted by a bottle being thrown right next to her head. She yelps, barely dodging it before she grabs her three-headed arrow and shoots towards her attacker.

Managing to hit her target and pin them to the wall, but not long enough that they couldn't free themselves in a minute or so. She'd have to take advantage of any time she could buy herself.

Ducking behind one of the columns near the tables, she instead opts to help the woman who'd done her a favor. Taking a deep breath, she channels her semblance into pausing her Aura, and shoots a few more arrows from Cupid's Third Eye.

Two of her arrows only end up tripping or distracting the other woman's opponents, while the other hits the biggest one straight in the abdomen, trapping him to the wall. Bullseye.

The sound of a gun shooting through the wall puts everyone on edge. One of the unruly man's goons holds up his pistols, pointing and aiming them around.

"Where's the bitch who hit our boss?!"

No longer repressing her anger, she closes an eye, before managing a headshot. Not enough to kill, but enough to need stitches. He drops his weapons in an instant as he yells in pain.

It wasn't a gun- the woman had enough with the surface of it to block and reflect any bullet that tried to get her way. And like if she was some kind of tank approaching her opponents, the opened parasol served as a shield before her figure turned into broken pieces of glass.

Reappearing from behind her current victim, most of them didn't expect the surprise, so it was easy to catch most with that. The other criminals were down before they could even complain…

Of course, Pansy's help doesn't fly over Neo's head. They even find it interesting to notice the other's choice of weapon was bow an arrow. Something they haven't seen since Cinder.

Someone wise enough would've stopped trying to get to Neo after seeing how skillful they were, or how she seemed to use part of her Semblance. But of COURSE, the illusionist themselves expected these goons to have no better brains than newborn Grimm.

With a smile full of confidence and another knocked out criminal at her feet, Neopolitan would politely kick him to the side, staring now at the man that shot and yelled, only to have him receiving a headshot that shut him up…at least for now.

Ah. Nice shot. She thought to herself while staring at Pansy from a distance, still smirking, before looking around themselves.

…did anyone else want to have their asses kicked? Or did they have enough?

She offers a warm smile in return, always proud to have her contributions appreciated. Really, she'll never say no to praise.

Unfortunately, it is enough to distract her from channeling her Semblance proper, causing a familiar wave of tiredness to seep through her bones. While she hadn't used enough of her Aura for the fatigue to be anything concerning, she does flinch at the sound of a whistle being blown by the bar's main counter.

Her mother, with her taller stature and heavy bags beneath her eyes, lets go of the item and lets it hang from her neck. She clears her throat, monotone, yet with a clear edge of annoyance.

"If you wanna keep this scuffle going, take it outside. Business isn't gonna save itself."

The group of bandits open their mouths in protest, before the older woman cracks her knuckles and sneers at them like a viper's eyes slitting at the sight of fresh meat. All of them, knowing full well they'd lost this battle, haul off both of their leaders.

Pansy, however, couldn't be more relieved that finally, those scoundrels were out of her hair. Always eager to see her mother's warrior skills in action, she rises back up with a flourish.

"Oh, thank goodness! Thank you, Moth-"

"Back to work, Penny."

She shrivels up, her cheeks flushing upon realizing the reality of the situation. Even if she was rightfully defending herself, the other patrons wouldn't see it that way. She clears her throat, rubbing the back of her head. "R-Right… my apologies."

Her mother simply sighs, shrugging as she goes back to mixing drinks as usual. Pansy, on the other hand, begins to sweep up and clean the mess on the floor. Though, this doesn't stop her curiosity about the other woman who'd clearly scared everyone into silence.

The fall of Beacon was just the first warning sign that the world had been headed for darker times. She still remembers that old café fondly, taking in stray cats and caring for them like they were her own. Serving drinks, making idle chatter with customers, perhaps meet a lover or two along the way.

Every experience was added to her scrapbook of ideas for what could someday be her very own boutique, full of designs pulled from the most whimsical corners and colors of her mind. Different sections for people to bring their own designs to life, all while a bakery full of delights lay just behind the cash register.

Ahh, what a life that would be... a seamstress' paradise!

But ever since the order to evacuate, things had changed.

Her mother and her had initially evacuated to Minstral, before news about Atlas' fall had spread like wildfire, and now here they were. Working a bar in Vacuo, because it was the only place that was open for employment.

Mother had been lucky to secure a position as a bartender, away from most of the action. Pansy was not.

Ever the idealist, she'd thought: Oh, it can't be that bad. Working as a waitress here will hardly be different from the old café!

Oh, how wrong she was. She still had much to learn about Vacuo, and especially the kinds of people who frequented taverns like these.

Such is the case when one of her clients, the leader of a local rough and scruff gang, had decided to test her patience.

"Woooah, I haven't seen a fine babe like you since I washed up on the shore. What's your price, huh?"

It took everything in her to not throttle him right then and there. Her eye twitches, before she clears her throat, and tightens her grip on the tray of drinks instead.

"I'm afraid I'd consider myself priceless, as are you, I'm sure." She maintains an even tone, and a level head. "However, I've tried all of the drinks myself. I can assure you, they're very affordable, and very much worth the wait-"

"Really? Then I'd like to cancel the order and get a tall glass of you. How about it, dollface?"

She swallows down the desire to use her heels as daggers, reminding herself that she's on the clock. "You know, I can actually just ask if any of the specials today are any better-"

Turning around, she tries to pivot away and run right back to the bar to warn her mother about another unruly customer she's had to tolerate, the fifth in the last week.

Unfortunately, her horoscope must have been especially bad today, because the sudden hand on her hip— way too close to her rear— grabs her and pulls her in-

Her reflexes spring to action in a second, throwing the tray to the side, glass shattering against the floor as beer and whiskey spill across the hardwood. The man soon joins with them, with Pansy slapping him with enough force to send him toppling.

And then instantly regretting it the moment she's met with several wide eyes on her, including a scowl from the man she's just knocked down. Millions of gazes, like she were an unlucky rabbit that'd fallen into a den of lions.

"Oh, you've got a death wish, don't ya?!"

Immediately, she runs to the back to get her weapon, as the bar suddenly erupts in utter chaos and people fighting to either defend the girl, or just for the sake of the thrill.

It's not like she had to focus on the conversation too much to hear what the guy was saying, specially. He was loud, and it got the illusionist rolling her eyes and squinting her eyes in clear disgust.

There are too many like those around here. She thought, not letting her parasol rest against her seat yet.

Impatient, if only because that guy was just getting in the way of the waitress's job with his nonsense, but she had to wait and-

…oh.

Her eyes open wide as soon as the waitress turns around to try and escape the situation, and in the blink of an eye, there's the crash of glass on the floor, the loud clang of the tray and the slap.

As expected, everything would soon turn into a battlefield, and even if the mute wasn't initially here with the intention of getting into a fight so soon, she guessed she would take the chance to relieve some stress.

Standing up from her seat, Neo tightened her hand around the handle of her weapon. So tight, that her leather gloves squeaked.

A glass of something was flying in her direction, but she simply took a step to the side just fast enough to avoid getting hit.

But, in the blink of an eye, the next thing the illusionist would be doing was charging into the motherfucker that started this all, catching him off-guard and attacking from behind. One hit to the back of his knee, then one direct to his head once he had him kneeling- so fast and so clean, that it caught the attention of others inside the bar.

Oh no no no, what have I done?!

She's brought out of her panic by the sight of a woman she's never seen before. Hair split into waves of rose pink on the left and deep brown on the right, with streaks of white on one side. Her heterochromia even matched her general color palette, but on opposite sides. Complete with key lime pie green eye shadow.

Not only that, but this woman had managed to take down Pansy's assailant, who was twice her size, in such a swift manner. It was almost unbelievable, yet admirable.

If these were better circumstances, Pansy would be begging her to share her strategies. But no, this was not a place of peace.

Her thoughts are interrupted by a bottle being thrown right next to her head. She yelps, barely dodging it before she grabs her three-headed arrow and shoots towards her attacker.

Managing to hit her target and pin them to the wall, but not long enough that they couldn't free themselves in a minute or so. She'd have to take advantage of any time she could buy herself.

Ducking behind one of the columns near the tables, she instead opts to help the woman who'd done her a favor. Taking a deep breath, she channels her semblance into pausing her Aura, and shoots a few more arrows from Cupid's Third Eye.

Two of her arrows only end up tripping or distracting the other woman's opponents, while the other hits the biggest one straight in the abdomen, trapping him to the wall. Bullseye.

The sound of a gun shooting through the wall puts everyone on edge. One of the unruly man's goons holds up his pistols, pointing and aiming them around.

"Where's the bitch who hit our boss?!"

No longer repressing her anger, she closes an eye, before managing a headshot. Not enough to kill, but enough to need stitches. He drops his weapons in an instant as he yells in pain.

Vacuo...Neo hated the hot weather, the sand, and how crowded everything was due to people from all around Remnant coming to find refuge here.

The days passed way too slowly if she didn't find any distraction, almost torturous when she was on her own.

While it was true she could have the company of the Reassuring Rabbit or her illusions, seeing her social life being reduced to that was as sad as it could get, and she surely didn't leave the Ever After to keep playing pretend on her own.

It's in an attempt to kill time that, the illusionist found herself entering a bar; feline features covered by her Semblance after making sure there were no people that could recognize her around here.

The fall of Beacon was just the first warning sign that the world had been headed for darker times. She still remembers that old café fondly, taking in stray cats and caring for them like they were her own. Serving drinks, making idle chatter with customers, perhaps meet a lover or two along the way.

Every experience was added to her scrapbook of ideas for what could someday be her very own boutique, full of designs pulled from the most whimsical corners and colors of her mind. Different sections for people to bring their own dreams to life, all while a bakery full of delights lay just behind the cash register.

Ahh, what a life that would be... a seamstress' paradise!

But ever since the order to evacuate, things had changed.

Her mother and her had initially evacuated to Mistral, before news about Atlas' fall had spread like wildfire, and now here they were. Working a bar in Vacuo, because it was the only place that was open for employment.

Mother had been lucky to secure a position as a bartender, away from most of the action. Pansy was not.

Ever the idealist, she'd thought: Oh, it can't be that bad. Working as a waitress here will hardly be different from the old café!

Oh, how wrong she was. She still had much to learn about Vacuo, and especially the kinds of people who frequented taverns like these.

Such is the case when one of her clients, the leader of a local rough and scruff gang, had decided to test her patience.

"Woooah, I haven't seen a fine babe like you since I washed up on the shore. What's your price, huh?"

It took everything in her to not throttle him right then and there. Her eye twitches, before she clears her throat, and tightens her grip on the tray of drinks instead.

"I'm afraid I'd consider myself priceless, as are you, I'm sure." She maintains an even tone, and a level head. "However, I've tried all of the drinks myself. I can assure you, they're very affordable, and very much worth the wait-"

"Really? Then I'd like to cancel the order and get a tall glass of you. How about it, dollface?"

She swallows down the desire to use her heels as daggers, reminding herself that she's on the clock. "You know, I can actually just ask if any of the specials today are any better-"

Turning around, she tries to pivot away and run right back to the bar to warn her mother about another unruly customer she's had to tolerate, the fifth in the last week.

Unfortunately, her horoscope must have been especially bad today, because the sudden hand on her hip— way too close to her rear— grabs her and pulls her in-

Her reflexes spring to action in a second, throwing the tray to the side, glass shattering against the floor as beer and whiskey spill across the hardwood. The man soon joins with them, Pansy slapping him with enough force to send him toppling.

And then instantly regretting it the moment she's met with several wide eyes on her, including a scowl from the man she's just knocked down. Millions of gazes, like she were an unlucky rabbit that'd fallen into a den of lions.

"Oh, you've got a death wish, don't ya?!"

Immediately, she runs to the back to get her weapon, as the bar suddenly erupts in utter chaos and people fighting to either defend the girl, or just for the sake of the thrill.