assignment one draft 3

8/10/2019 Assignment One Draft 3

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Assignment One

Relevant Information: RWBY is an online web series produced by RoosterTeeth, the creators

of other online shows like Red vs. Blue. RWBY is a self-shading anime, meaning that theanimation style renders the characters‟ shading gradually as if it were three dimensional, and

each episodes length varies considerably, averaging around fifteen minutes. Therefore in order tomeet the necessary time, each of my observations span multiple sequential episodes. In myobservations I detail which volume(anime volumes are like the season‟s pt. 1 and pt. 2) and

episode they take place, as well as the time elapsed when the scene ends. In addition to all

currently released episodes of RWBY, I have watched many RoosterTeeth podcasts andinterviews relating to RWBY. My examples, vocabulary, and impressions are made with this

knowledge. It is also of interest to note that many characters, places, and events allude to one or

more external things. For example the main character, Ruby Rose, is a reference to little red

riding hood. While the plot is not bound by it‟s allusions, often times it relies on the references to

add connotations to the scene, that otherwise may be more ambiguous. Because theseconnections are not often canonically revealed, some characters‟ references may be unknown,

but I have added the known allusions in parentheses next to their pertaining reference below.

Also for ease of reading, I have included very brief character descriptions for any new charactersappearing in an episode at the beginning of each episode observation. However I have not

included descriptions of the characters I‟ve already detailed in the actors section. Finally I have

included links to some canonical videos and music in their pertaining spots, throughout theobservations. The trailers, openings and informational videos will help with comprehension of

the figured world, characters, and plot. I would especially emphasize the music, as they are

played throughout the episodes and the lyrics often relate to or foreshadow the transpiringevents, adding important context.

Terminology

Huntsmen - refers to those who have studied aura, Dust and combat practices to defendhumanity. Can be male or female, singular is Huntsman. Theexplicit female equivalents are, Huntresses and Huntress,

respectively.

Dust - refers to a naturally occurring energy propellant, that hasspecial properties. Commonly found in powder or crystalline

form. May also refer to Dust in the form of ammunition, fuel, or

the proverbial dust of creation.

Aura - refers to an individual's soul, or more specifically itsmanifestation and application. Not to be confused with

Semblance. May also refer to souls in general. Plural is auras

Semblance - refers to an individual‟s unique aura empoweredability. Not to be confused with Aura, or other unique abilities. May also refer to unique aura

empowered abilities in general. Plural is Semblances

Faunus (ref. Roman God of Wilderness) - refers to a race of part animal part human people. Not to be confused with Grimm. Usually seen as human with an additional animal appendage,

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but not always apparent to casual observation. Typically equipped with enhanced senses,

especially night vision. Is singular and plural.

The White Fang (ref. Jack London’s novel) - refers to an organization of Faunus, that fightsfor Faunus rights. Not to be confused with Faunus in general. Considered by many to be a cult of

terrorists. May also refer to members or affiliation. May also be referenced as White Fang.

Grimm (ref. Grimms’ Fairy Tales ) - refers to soulless beast-like creatures. May vary in formand traits. Typically diurnal, may work as a pack, even across species. Driven to extinguishsouls. Rapid decomposition on death. Origin unknown. Is singular and plural. May also be

referred to as Creatures of Grimm or The Grimm.

Known Species: ● Beowolf (ref. Beowolf poem)- plural Beowolves are werewolf like creatures, usually

bipedal, that travel in packs

● Ursa (ref. latin for bear)- plural Ursi are

bear like creatures that vary greatly insize and travel in small groups.

Occasionally bipedal.

● Boarbatusk (ref. Babirusa)- pluralBoarbatusks boar and hedgehog like

creatures, large curved tusks, charges.

● King Taijitu (ref. Kingsnake/Yin and

Yang)- same plural, are snake likecreatures, having a second head in place

of a tail, and large in size.

● Deathstalker (ref. Deathstalkerscorpion)- plural Deathstalkers, are

scorpion like creatures, with glowing

stingers and very large in size.

● Nevermore (ref. The Raven poem)- same plural, are raven like creatures, very large insize, and capable of flight.

Remnant - refers to the known world. Full size, contents, and origin is unknown. Contains the

four bastion kingdoms of humanity. Kingdoms:

● Vale - the kingdom our story takes place in, known for being most tolerant toward

Faunus● Atlas - most known for heavy military and industry

● Vacuo - known for its citizens resourcefulness, reputation for roguishness

● Mistral - most known for trade and culture

Figured World: a social environment with mul tiple communit ies of practice each with ru les

and conventions for social i nteraction

The figured world I‟m observing is the online show RWBY. The world in which RWBY takes

place is called Remnant, and more specifically the kingdom of Vale. The premise of the show isthat in humanity‟s early days, we were nearly wiped out by the creatures of Grimm. Mankind

then harnessed the power of a substance which came to be known as Dust, to repel the darkness,

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and progress to a state of sheltered civilization the characters find themselves in now. Our

characters specifically are enrolled in a school whose purpose is to train the defenders of

mankind. Because of this it is common and expected for everyone on campus to be equippedwith a weapon at all times, and to have combat experience. These people are just as likely to be

found studying, for their academic courses, or socializing with friends. Those residing in the

main city of Vale however are common people, who go about their business much like any of usdo. These people are nonplussed at seeing students of these prestigious combat schools walkingaround with weapons, however those seen with a weapon who are not easily identified as

students or staff cause panic. The students, teachers and common populace of Vale all represent

communities of practice, with the students being motivated to gain the knowledge to defend theirkingdom, teachers gathered to spread their knowledge, and the overarching sense of community

that is fostered by a common enemy constantly threatening to return mankind to the darkness. A

particular area of interest is in Faunus the collective term for those that are part human part

animal. This race is often mistreated by humans, creating several sub communities of practicethat share different views about the equality. The White Fang in particular is a community of

practice that believe violence is the only way to achieve equality for their Faunus brethren.

● World of Remnant: Kingdoms

Actors: the people who fu lf il l signi fi cant r oles, in their communi ty, withi n the fi gured world.

There are more characters than thi s who ful f il l specif ic roles, but these are the most important

and distinct.

Ruby Rose (ref. Little Red Riding Hood) - Ruby is one, and the most prominent, of the

shows four main protagonists. Ruby was formally appointed

to, and fulfills, the role of leader within her team, putting herin a position of responsibility to make sure the team

cooperates and strengthens. Ruby being the youngest, also

brings youthful enthusiasm and optimism to the group, beingvery naive of the world she lives in.

○ "Red" Trailer

○ Red Trailer Song: Red Like Roses

Weiss Schnee (ref. german for Snow White)- Weiss is the tsundere of the four maincharacters. She serves to counter Ruby‟s unbridled enthusiasm,

with constant put downs, all the while secretly taking great

comfort from Ruby‟s comradery. Weiss, also being the Heiress toone of the largest companies of the world, represents

sophistication and refinement and is unhappily put upon by

expectations of her status. These expectations cause her to be very diligent in her work

and through this the betterment of her team and teammates.

○ “White” Trailer ○ White Trailer Song: Mirror Mirror

Blake Belladonna (ref. Beauty and the Beast)- Blake is the quiet and antisocial one of

the four main characters. Her introverted book worm personalityis derived from her abuse at being a Fauns causing her to stop

relying on others. In this way her role is a counter to Ruby‟s

naivety, having experience life‟s pain, Blake is the voice ofreason that puts situations in perspective for the group.

Image 3 – Ruby’s Emblemhttp://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0228/ 9021/products/800BUBY_large.jpg?v=1385260395

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○ “Black” Trailer

○ Extended Black Trailer Song: From Shadows

Yang Xiao Long (ref. Goldy Locks)- Of the four main characters, Yang is the mostconfident and jovial. Yang is typically seen to be carefree and

socially popular, however when angered the lighthearted attitude is

replaced by unequaled rage. Even though Yang and Ruby arestepsisters, they have a loving relationship and Yang often tries fillthe role of Big Sister for Ruby and the team as a whole. She is deeply caring and at times

overprotective of those she sees as her friends, especially Ruby. With Yangs strength far

surpassing anyone elses in the group she sees it as her job to defend the group fromthreats external and internal, blaming herself whenever harm befalls them.

○ “Yellow” Trailer

○ Extended Yellow Trailer Song: I Burn

○ Song about Yang‟s relationship with Ruby: Gold ● Ozpin (ref. Wizard of Oz)- Ozpin is the headmaster at Beacon and as such is

responsible for his students. While not interacting with his students on a day to day basis,

he often shows up to provided much needed guidance or support. As headmaster he provides his teachers and students direction and insight on how to become better

Huntsmen. He works to make his school an environment that accepts people from all

walks of life, including Faunus, this is one of the many reasons he accepts Ruby two

years early. ● Roman Torchwick (ref. Pinocchio's best friend)- Torchwick is the main antagonist in

the show. He continually breaks the law and this leads him into conflict with the RWBY

and the populace of Vale at large. Most of his actions are in response to direction fromCinder, his apparent boss. Despite this pecking order it is Torchwick that carries out most

of the misdeeds and he represents the corruption of the human populace and conflicts

other than the Grimm.

● Adam Taurus (ref. Beauty and the Beast/Bull) - Adam is one of the few personallyIdentified members of the White Fang. In contrast to Blake, Adam not only supports the

White Fang‟s actions, but is a perfect member. Adam shows little concern for human

lives he might take, as his fulfills his role as a White Fang zealot. ● Cardin Winchester (Cardinal of Winchester: Henry Beaufort)- Cardin is a side

character and a student at Beacon. Cardin is the leader of his own team, but often acts

disreputably. He fill the role of bully at Beacon and his team follows suit. They pick onJaune and other students for the shear enjoyment of it. They also target Faunus and are

very discriminatory. These people, and Cardin in particular, provide a social conflict for

many students at Beacon and separate those who stand up for justice, or cower in fear

Artifacts: physical objects or emotions that have special meaning and impor tance to a

communi ty or i ndividual

● Dust - Dust is the substance that empowers mankind to stand against the darkness. It‟s a

natural energy propellent and powers all aspects of daily life, from transportation, to

communication, to defence. Man relies on Dust thoroughly and the ever expanding needand consumption of Dust keeps the world dependent on several key Dust mining

companies.

○ World of Remnant: Dust

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● Aura - Auras are the manifestation of ones soul. All living creatures have them, animals

humans, and Faunus alike. Grimm however lack a soul. They are the epitome

of anonymity. Aura can be used to, gain extra sensory input, bond withsomeone or something at a deeper level, or by bearing the soul outward a

barrier to deflect harm. This is essential to all Huntsmen as it allows them to

take otherwise life threatening strikes, and continue fighting.● Weapons - With a world full of danger weapons are a necessity,especially for Huntsmen. Each student hand crafts their own weapon and

imparts some of their soul into it, as to better link themselves. Their

weapons are expression of their inner selves and act as conduits for theiraura and Dust to combat enemies. Many students go so far as to name their

weapons, such as Ruby‟s Crescent Rose, and Yang‟s Ember Celica. ● Semblances - Semblances are unique abilities of each person

trained in the use of Aura. These are often significant manipulations of ones surroundingsor self through the signature use of their Soul. Ruby‟s Semblance is speed, Pyrrha's is

polarity. Each persons Semblance is part of their identity and unlocking it is a right of

passage culturally. ● Experiences of Loss - Team RWBY and many other students have personal tales of

hardship and loss. These experiences each influence their owner in different ways, often

owing to the motivation behind becoming a Huntsman or Huntress. Sharing these trials

also serves to create deeper bonds with others and humanise people that have seemeddistant.

● Fear - Humanity is currently experience an unprecedented period of peace. This shows

that peace it not the norm, and even amidst this peace, is a chronic fear of theoverwhelming number and strength of the Grimm, just outside the kingdom. No matter

the fragmentation within human communities, the fear of the Grimm has no barriers, the

Grimm don‟t care if your Faunus or Human, good or Evil. They kill without

indiscriminately, and are just waiting for the defences to falter long enough to returnmankind to the darkness. It is with this fear that humanity goes about its daily life, and

motivate people like Ruby to take up the fight.

● Strong morals - Team RWBY is often seen deliberating on what is right, as do manystudent at Beacon, with the exception of a few like Cardin. Being Huntsmen and

Huntresses inspires a sense of responsibility that comes with their training, to do what is

right. They might not all agree on details, but as a group they all strive to protect theweak and endangered. To protect mankind and uphold justice are the strongest ideals of a

Huntsman. ● Blake’s Bow - Blake is rarely seen without the black bow she keeps tied around her head.

She does this to hide the fact that she is a Faunus from society, as to not be discriminatedagainst. Blake is very self conscious of her race, and as such tends to take steps to

downplay it and the occasional removal of her bow is symbolic of her internal state of

mind.

Communities of Practice: a group of people that have shared traits, such as goals, interests

and communi cation

● The Faunus - The populace of Remnant who are part animal, part Human. Individuals

are usually discriminated toward and ostracized, typically leading them to rely on eachother for support. They have a habit of sticking to the shadows, as humans avoid the dark,

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while most Faunus have exception smell hearing and most of all night vision. They are

usually able to detect their own kind with these traits, even if the other is hiding their

visible signs of being a Fauns, such as Blake‟s ribbon.

The White Fang - A particular subculture of the proportionately small Faunus

population. In order to achieve equality the White Fang

once stood as a peaceful organization, which when met withlittle results became violent. This new White Fang useswhatever means necessary, often violent and illegal, to

promote Faunus rights. The White Fang all wear Grimm

masks to hide their identity and have secret meetings in shifting locations, to plan theirnext action and gather recruits. More recently a shift has occurred leading the White Fang

not to just fight for their equality, but their supremacy to Humans.

● Beacon Students - The students at Beacon may have their individual reasons for

attending, but their collective goal is to become Huntsmen. The school is isolated fromthe rest of the city, and all students live on site. They learn, study, practice, similar

courses and are faced with the social challenges of Dust supply and demand, criminal

influence and White Fang activity. They are grouped into teams of four and communicatethrough personal school assigned Scrolls(holographic smart phones). ● Cinder’s Faction - This includes Cinder, Torchwick, Mercury, and Emerald. While

Roman is clearly left out of the other three‟s master plan, he‟s an integral part of their

operation. They all follow Cinder‟s direction and are completing nefarious illegalactivities toward a yet unknown end. They have no reservations at killing and seem to

take enjoyment out of the pain they cause.

● Team RWBY - Our four main characters in particular are seen as distinct from therabble. They all have deeply personal reasons for being at Beacon, and themselves as a

separate entity from the rest of the students. They also continue to have encounters with

Cinder‟s Faction and The White Fang unlike other teams, leading them to make

independent efforts from the other Huntsmen, and police, in stopping them. ● Beacon Staff - The staff at Beacon are or have been Huntsmen and Huntresses and take

direction from Ozpin himself. Because of this they share past experiences and wars that

were fought. They are now linked in their goal to train the next generation. While each ofthe teachers want to see their students become great Huntsmen, they do it with a sense of

melancholy from their own past, and are very concerned with their students well being. ● The Grimm - The Grimm come in many shapes sizes and species but they are set apart

from the whole of creation because they lack a soul. Most seem to be created from the

shadows themselves, with bone white protrusions serving as the weapons and armor.

They don‟t require food or exhibit any regret for their fallen. Grimm usually travel with

members of their same race, only occasionally collaborating cross species, for the sole purpose of extinguishing the light of the soul from Remnant.

Domain: how the community learns and grows, what they use to do this, and what the

community’s goals are

● Dust - Dust is such a normal part of everyday life that many take its presence for granted, but the students at Beacon, have entire classes devoted to its study. Dust is the tool that

turned the table against the Grimm and it is through this conduit that aura is fully taken

advantage of. Each student is carefully aware of how much they use and how to use Dust.

Image 8 – The White Fang Logo

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Without Dust mankind would have long died out and it‟s use and understanding are still

imperative. ● Experiences of Loss - Because many students become Huntsmen or Huntresses for

personal reasons, many of them due to loss, pain, or suffering, sharing the experience

helps everyone cope a little better. By sharing your burden it becomes lighter, shared by

all, and serves to unify the student body against thecriminals and Grimm that have caused theirgrievances.

● Combat Training - Combat experience is essential

to becoming a Huntsman. Part of the curriculum istournament style matches in which students spar

with each other and are given observations by the

teachers. For many the combat portion of training is

the most exciting, being able to practice and let offsteam.

● Lessons - In addition to combat, there are formal

lessons in the use of Aura Dust and tactics, as wellas Grimm studies and History. For those who don‟t

revel in combat this academic vantage to learn suits

them well. These classes often leave students with large amounts of studying and team

building activities. ● Fighting Grimm - The most practical way to learn is first hand experience, because of

this Beacon student often have excursions into Grimm infested territory to practice.

Killing Grimm is the mark of proficiency among Huntsmen and Huntresses, not tomention the hands on experience it provides them. Without the Grimm Humanity

wouldn‟t be united against a common threat and would likely be even more fractured,

nonetheless Grimm are an enemy and must be dealt with.

● Fighting Criminals - Unlike fighting Grimm, challenging criminals is not directly partof the Huntsmen‟s job. All the same, Huntsmen and Huntresses are to uphold justice and

therefore stop criminals. Team RWBY is especially involved in this, as they have had

personal dealings with multiple criminals that the police are unable to stop. AsHuntresses they are motivated to keep their city safe, even from internal threats.

● Fighting Humans - grimm have been seen in many races, and often vary vastly in size

and strength within their own species. It has been reasoned that grimm scales and to alesser extent the grimm itself strengthen in time, as seen with a very old, and large

Deathstalker. It has many scars and scratches from previous fights with humans in which

it was victorious, and due to it‟s longevity has become very experienced at killing. In

addition to this these alpha members have been seen directing their respective packs onvarious occasions.

Practices of the Community: the habits and common activities of a community that are

toward a shared goal , these can include physical, as well as mental acti viti es

● Fighting Grimm - Grimm are an overwhelming threat to Humanity and because of thisHuntsmen are constantly training to better kill them. In man‟s early years it was struggle

enough to merely live, and now its a struggle to keep them at bay, however its mankinds

goal to expand and to exterminate the Grimm world over.

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● Studying - In addition to being good in the field, Beacon students must also be proficient

academically. Studying is a common practice among students and is often done

collaboratively. Students feel compelled to study to be better Huntsmen and Huntressesas well as to simply pass their classes.

● Socializing - Being a Huntsman or Huntress isn‟t a solo job, often involving team work.

This in conjunction with the fact that the students are also just teenagers, socializationoccurs naturally and through encouragement by Beacon staff. Its not just communicatingwith each other either. Coming to trust and rely on friends and teammates itself, is

essential if you are to make a successful graduate.

● Vigilantism - At the insistence of Blake team RWBY in particular began taking steps tohandle Torchwick and his ilk. While not strictly encouraged, Huntsmen often work with

police to apprehend criminals, and RWBY is especially motivated. ● Protecting People - Huntsmen might focus on Grimm, but their large goal is to protect

people. Its almost second nature when Ruby endangers herself to protect those aroundher, just as it is for the other teammates. Helping people is the reason that they‟re there.

● Fighting The White Fang - Team RWBY because of Blake in particular have had a

series of encounters with the White Fang. While RWBY wants equality for Faunus, themeans the White Fang have resorted to have left even Faunus ashamed. The White Fang

has become more of a Terrorist group, and to protect the peace RWBY has stepped in

multiple times.

● Killing Humans - the Grimm are said to have appeared shortly after the dawn ofmankind, and ever since have been intent on destroying man and all of his creations.

Grimm are known to attack any being with a soul, but seem to favor human and faunus

targets, going so far as to attack anything created by them.

Literary Practices: how the communi ty of practice communicates, including oral and wri tten

methods

● Scrolls - Scrolls are portable smartphone like devices. They

allow the transmission of voice, video, messages, anddocuments from person to person. This is the primary means

of contacting one another when separated and it is uncommon

not to own one. They also come in large tablet versions aswell, mostly for those of administrative positions.

● Holograms - Throughout town and on larger passenger

transportation are Television like hologram stations. Theseholograms are often used as signs or advertisements, with

some like the one on Beacons airships, displaying local news.

These stations can also be appropriated to deliver public messages as seen performed by

Glynda to the freshman students.● Terminals - These are computer like stations that have holographic display and keyboard

they are collectively connected to the kingdoms network and are able to transmit data

from terminal to terminal. This is utilised by students to perform research and study.

These terminals also work in conjunction with scrolls, taking them in like a USB drive.While less mobile than scrolls the terminals provide a deeper level of communication and

data storage, allowing published work by a student or professor as well as newsreels to be

accessed by anyone.

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● Aura - In personal encounters, as much as can be gleaned from the spoken words and

body language, Aura allows the communication of deeper emotions. Using aura provides

extra sensory input, and it becomes clearer when someone is experiencing pain happinessor fear. This direct mode of expression reduces miscommunication and the need to

express oneself in words. However this directness, can often express emotions meant to

be kept secret leading to unexpected social encounters. While the state of your aura isopen, only those with training in aura manipulation are able to discern changes, leadingthis form of communication mostly practiced by Huntsmen partners.

● Lectures - The teachers at Beacon mostly hold lecture style class, as they give instruction

about various subjects. This is primarily how students learn about their duties when theycannot experience them first hand. All the staff being or having once been Huntsmen,

their lectures impart their own experiences as well. Occasionally informal lectures from

peers when they become impassioned about something and even The White Fang a

lecture their new recruits. ● Cross-Continental Transmit System - The CCTS are a set of towers in each Kingdom

that allow long distance communication. This is the only method of instantaneous

communication between kingdoms, and as such it heavily guarded. It was set-up after along war, as a „gift to the world‟. This network interfaces with select terminals and acts

much like our internet, allowing the collective knowledge of mankind to be available to

all.

Volume 1 Trailer

Observation 1

Volume 1 Opening Volume 1 Opening Song: This Will Be the Day

Volume 1 Episode 1: Ruby Rose

New characters:

Jaune Arc (ref. Joan of Arc)- a timid blond boy, who lacks skill and is often picked on.

Cinder Fall(ref. Cinderella)- a shady criminal boss, with extensive skill of dust andsemblances

Glynda Goodwitch(ref. Good Witch of the South)- Ozpin‟s right hand, an experience

huntress, with a severe attitude

2:00 - A female voice begins to recount the history of mankind, as a stylized rendition of theevents play on screen. She goes on to explain how man, “Born from Dust” had been pushed to

the brink of extinction, by creatures of darkness, “The creatures of Grimm”. The screen fades to

black, but is then illuminated by a glowing light, as the narrator explains that mankind was ableto fashion tools and weapons to stave off the darkness. “This power was appropriately named

Dust”. The stylized men are then seen to acquire swords and weapons, while the Grimm retreat,

and a kingdom is established. The voice trails off with a final foreboding comment, “but take





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heed, there will be no victory in strength”. This is rebuffed by a new, male, voice, who

propositions that victory can instead be found within the innocent.

6:30 - A man(Torchwick) walks down an alleyway, accompanied by many other men dressed infull black suits and shades, as the pedestrians panickedly leave the area. The gang enters a the

Dust shop and the shopkeeper offers his money(Lien) in exchange for their immediate departure, but Torchwick replies that they aren‟t there for Lien, they just want the Dust. The clerk is held atgunpoint as the gang disperses throughout the store looting. One of the men notices a red hooded

girl(Ruby) with headphones blaring music at the back of the store completely oblivious to the

robbery. The man threatens the girl so she takes off the headphones and realises the situation.The man is next seen thrown through a window, quickly followed by Ruby, with her snyper-

scythe (Crescent Rose) fully deployed. A fight between the suited men and Ruby ensues, with

Ruby easily achieving victory. Torchwick himself then uses a gun hidden in his cane to shoot at

Ruby. In the commotion Torchwick gains a headstart on his escape, and Ruby persuse after

making sure the shop keeper was alright. Ruby quickly catches up to Torchwick only for him to board a small cargo air ship. From out of nowhere a woman (Glynda) appears and uses her

abilities to keep the ship from leaving, Torchwick informs his partner (Cinder) of the Huntress‟

arrival, to which they switch positions. Glynda then proceeds to combat Cinder, being equallymatched, Cinder and Torchwick are able to escape. Ruby then asks Glynda for her autograph.

8:50 - Ruby is next seen getting a lecture from Glynda in an interrogation room. Glynda believesRuby should be encouraged for doing the right thing, but also punished for her vigilante

behavior. Nevertheless Glynda introduces Professor Ozpin, who brings in a plate of cookies for

Ruby. Ozpin proceeds to question Ruby about how she came to have such skill and why she

wants to become a slayer of Grimm (Huntress). She responds after having finished all of thecookies, by informing Ozpin of her Uncle Qrow who teaches at Ruby‟s school(Signal) and her

desire inspired by her parents to uphold justice. After all this Ozpin invites Ruby to attend, his

school(Beacon), the next school up. Ruby accepts.

11:10 - The scene transitions to a larger airship heading out of the city, where Ruby‟s older

sister(Yang), is exclaiming loudly about how great Ruby is for getting into Beacon early. Ruby

expresses concern that she doesn't want to stick out or be treated differently because of her twoyear advancement. The girls both then turn to a holographic news feed displaying Torchwick is

still at large, the feed transitions to a story about how a recent civil rights protest by the Faunus(a

race of part animal, part human) turned dark as a collection of Radical Faunus (The White Fang) became violent. The feed is replaced by Glynda congratulating them on their acceptance into

such a prestigious combat school, as the children admire the view. Motion sickness gets to one

boy(Jaune), and he ends up vomiting onto Ruby‟s shoes, as the ship descends to land.

Volume 1 Episode 2: The Shining Beacon

3:55 - The students pour out of the ship and join a stream of other disembarking students at

staring in awe of the school as they walk to the auditorium. Ruby however is admiring the otherstudents‟ weapons, and becomes very excited at seeing so many, untill Yang reminds her that she

needs to meet new people not just weapons. Ruby expresses an interest in tagging along with

Yang, but not wanting to be weighed down by her sister, Yang accompanies her own friends and

leaves Ruby to fend for herself. Ruby then accidently bumps into a girl‟s(Weiss) luggage. Weiss



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completely overreacts and begins beating Ruby for her clumsiness. The split Dust from Weiss‟

luggage causes Ruby to sneeze a fireball into Wiess only infuriating her more, all the while Ruby

is apologizing. Ruby is finally saved by a girl(Blake) who informs Ruby that Weiss is the heiressto the largest Dust company in the world. Blake then criticizes the company for its controversial

treatment of Faunus labor. Ruby laughs at Weiss now worse mood, as both Blake and Weiss

leave.

6:00 - Ruby, alone again, falls to the ground, only to be helped up by Jaune. She and Jaune begin

chatting and Ruby proudly displays Crescent Rose. Jaune is shocked at the weapon, and

impressed at Ruby having crafted it herself. Ruby explains her overblown weapons obsessionand in turn, Jaune displays his sword and collapsible shield, which leaves Ruby less enthusiastic.

Jaune becomes embarrassed at his hand-me-down equipment, and Ruby consoles him saying

“not many people have an appreciation for the classics”. Ruby then questions where they are

going, only to find Jaune has just been following her.

Volume 1 Episode 3: The Shining Beacon pt. 2

2:10 - Ruby separates from Jaune once they reach the auditorium to rejoin with Yang, who hassaved Ruby a spot. Ruby begins complaining about Yang ditching her, bumping into Weiss, and

the subsequent explosive sneeze. Yang thinks Ruby is being sarcastic until Weiss arrives and

begins yelling at Ruby about it all over again. In order for Ruby to make it up to her, Weiss gives

Ruby a informational Dust pamphlet and instructions to read it and never speak to her again.Yang tries to help smooth things over, only to be sarcastically rebuffed by Weiss.

3:05 - With everyone in place at the auditorium, Ozpin begins his welcoming speech by

acknowledging everyone‟s shared drive to become a Huntsmen. The speech becomes moresomber, as he intones that “knowledge can only carry you so f ar, it is up to you to take the first

step”. Once Ozpin‟s speech concludes, Glynda takes over and begins informing the first years

that they will spend the night in the hall together and be tested the next morning.

6:20 - The students are seen collectively setting up their sleeping bags, and other arrangements in

the hall, and Yang equates the experience to a large slumber party. Ruby replies that their father

wouldn‟t approve of all the boys. Yang isn‟t deterred by this, as she stares at several topless malestudents, until her view is ruined by Jaune in a onesie pajama. Yang turns back to Ruby and asks

her about the letter shes writing.Ruby explains that shes keeping in touch with her friends back at

Signal,and complains about having to leave them behind. Yang patronizes her sister and they begin arguing, until they become distracted by Blake in the corner reading. Ruby mentions to

Yang that she met Blake this morning, so Yang drags Ruby over and introduces themselves. The

pair struggles to engage Blake in conversation, and their attempts serve only to annoy Blake

because of the distraction it is causing from her book. Ruby saves the situation, when sheinquires about the book, and reminisces about Yang reading her fairytale stories as a kid. Blake

is tone is much lighter after finding a common interest with Ruby, but claims she is naive all the

same, because real life doesn't have a happy ending. Ruby responds, “that's why we‟re here, tomake it better”. Yang once again patronizes Ruby and the two get into a scuffle, amusing Blake,

untill Weiss complains about the noise. Ruby apologises, while Yang gets only louder, trying to

defend Ruby. The group continues to bicker until they are cut short by Blake turning off the

lights.



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This first observation covers the acceptance of Ruby into beacon, two years ahead of schedule

and the meeting of our four soon to be teammates. We can begin to see what is expected ornormal in this new environment and the archetypal roles into which the characters are beginningto fall into.

Between the observations, some more social interaction occurs, some new characters are

introduced and the first year students are tasked with their initiation challenge: After beinglaunched off the cliffs, to make their way through the Emerald forest, to the temple. Once there,

pick up a relic and return to the cliffs without dying. Whatsmore the first student one makes eye

contact with after landing will become their partner for the next four years at Beacon.

Observation 2

Volume 1 Episode 5: The First Step, pt. 2

New characters:

Pyrrha Nikos (ref. Achilles)- a famous world renowned fighter, always at the top of her

class, very genuine

4:15 - The students begin landing throughout the forest. Everyone drops rather quickly exceptfor Yang who, using her weapon for boosts, flys much farther out than the rest. Pyrrah lands as

quickly as possible and begins surveying the area, quickly spotting the falling figure of Jaun. Shethen launches her weapon at him and pinned him to a tree, saving him from falling flat on hisface. He shouts thanks to Pyrrha and she apologizes. As soon as Ruby drops, she takes off

running looking for Yang. While running Ruby thinks about potential other partners, dismissing

all of them until she comes to a stop to prevent nearly running into Weiss. Ruby pauses, waiting

for a cue on how to proceed, but Weiss just begins walking in the opposite direction leaving adejected Ruby behind. Weiss then happens across Jaun, pinned to a tree, and promptly returns to

a now elated Ruby saying “by no means does this make us friends”. Pyrrha then walks in on

Jaune and the two exchange snark remarks. Meanwhile Weiss is complaining about Rubyslowing her down, in response Ruby demonstrates exception speed proclaiming that after today

Weiss will see a new side of Ruby and will think she “is really really cool, and I wanna be your

friend”. Ruby disappears in another burst of speed and Weiss complains further still, until shesuddenly becomes surrounded by Beowolves as she cries out Ruby‟s name.

Volume 1 Episode 6: The Emerald Forest

New characters:

Lie Ren (ref. Mulan) - a quiet boy with a streak of pink in his hair Nora Valkyrie (ref. Thor)- a loud energetic girl, who has a big sweet tooth



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3:40 - Blake is calling out for someone anyone, claiming boredom. Then two Ursi appear and

attack Yang. Yange easily outmatches them and claims they couldn't hit a bus, until shes stopped

short by a strand of hair falling to the ground. She becomes furious and slams one Ursa throughseveral trees, before she can do the same to the other, Blake appears and stabs it. Meanwhile

Weiss reminds herself of her training and prepares to attack the surrounding Beowolves. Whenshe begins to strike, Ruby reappears right in her path. Panicked, Weiss causes her shot to gowide, setting a portion of the forest on fire. Now with the forest ablaze, they are forced to retreat,

as do the Beowolves. Ruby complains at having to leave saying “that should have been easy”,

and Weiss in turn argues that Ruby was at fault. Weiss makes one last comment about Ruby notdeserving to get into Beacon early, and storms off. Ruby screams and fells a tree as she follows.

As they leave a man sized feather falls from the tree.

7:00 - Jaune and Pyrrha are walking in the woods, when Pyrrha accidentally slaps Jaune with a

tree branch. It creates a cut and Pyrrha asks why Jaune hasn‟t activated his Aura. Jauns repliesmake it clear he doesn‟t know, so Phyra begins to explain about Aura being a manifestation of

the Soul. As she explains about Aura‟s uses Ren is seen fighting two King Taijitu. Ren becomes

disarmed and subsequently relies on Aura to win the fight. Returning to Phyra as she wraps up,Jaune relates it to a force field, Pyrrha indulges him and brings her hands up to Jaune's head. She

begins reciting a mantra as their bodies glow from Pyrrha unlocking Jaune's Aura. With Jaune's

Aura unlocked his cheek heals instantly and Pyrrha comments that Jaune has a significantamount of Aura. Back to Rein, he is seen dusting himself off as an odd sound rings out and Nora

appears hanging from a tree. Ren jokes about how that wasn‟t what a sloth sounds like, to which

Nora pokes him in the nose and says “Boop”.

Volume 1 Episode 7: The Emerald Forest, pt. 2

2:10 - Ozpin and Glynda are seen standing at the top of the original clif each with a scroll tablet

in hand. Glynda comments how she can't see Nora or Ren getting along and similarly aboutJaune and Pyrah. Ozpin hums at this, and Glynda continues to remark on Jauns poor

performance. She begins leaving but before she does she asks Ozpin what he used for relics this

year. He doesn't reply, being totally focused on his own scroll tracking the progress of Ruby.

Weiss has become completely lost and won‟t admit it unt il Ruby confronts her about it. Thisleads to another argument, Ruby calls Weiss bossy and Weiss calls Ruby a child. Ruby says

Weiss needs to stop pretending shes perfect, to which Weiss replies “I‟m not perfect, at least not

yet, but I‟m still leagues better than you”. Ruby becomes dejected at this and mutters that Weissdoesn't even know her.

4:30 - Blake and Yang finally find the temple in a clearing, Yang asks if she thinks this is it, and

Blake replies only with a sarcastic stare, as the pair heads toward it. Pyrrha and Jaune are seenstanding outside a large cave, as Jaune asks Pyrrha if she thinks this is it. Once inside the cave

Pyrrha tentatively suggests that this is not it, to which Jaune says she should humor him for 10

more feet considering he already made a torch, until he drops it in a puddle and only their eyescan be seen. Yang selects a chess piece, one of several serving as this years relics, and Blake

comments how the temple wasn‟t very hard to find. Going back to Jaune, a light is glowing in

the tunnel and he grabs hold of it to find out it‟s the Stinger on a Deathstalker. Blake and Yang

hear a scream and think one of the girls are in trouble. Jaune still holding on, and the



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Deathstalker emerge from the cave right after Pyrah. Phyra tells Jaune to just not let go, just in

time for him to be flung far into the distance. Returning to Blake and Yang, Blake points above

them and Yang looks up to see Ruby falling, shouting “Heads Up”.

Volume 1 Episode 8: The Players and the Pieces

5:55 - Ruby and Weiss are on the back of a giant Nevermore, as Weiss complains about thesituation. Ruby suggests jumping, which wiess doesn't appreciate only, to find that Ruby actually

has jump. As Ruby is falling she collides with Jaune and they both end up sprawled in a tree

dazed. An Ursa suddenly appears and soon collapses with Nora and Ren sliding off its back after

riding then killing it here. Nora begins singing and dancing as she selects a relic much to Reinsannoyance. Then Pyrrha comes into view, with the Deathstalker close on her heels. Ruby has

finally climbed down from the tree and goes to embrace Yang, but Nora gets right in their way.

Yang becomes frustrated at all the events happening, and explodes into a miniature fireball, as

she asks everyone to chill out for ten seconds before something crazy happens again. There is ashort pause then Ruby points above her to a flailing Weiss falling from the Nevermore. Jaune

leaps from the tree, catches Weiss and the pair are momentarily suspended as Jaune hits on her.

Gravity then takes hold and the two fall with Weiss landing heavily on Jaune's back. Pyrrha isthen struck by the Deathstalker and ends up amidst the group as Yang jokes “Great the gangs all

here, now we can die together”. Ruby takes it as a challenge and rushes the approaching

Deathstalker, much to her sisters horror. Ruby‟s failed attack gets her to acknowledge hermistake as she begins retreating only to be trapped and cut off from the group by the

Nevermore‟s shot quills. Yang tries to reach Ruby but cannot as the Deathstalker strikes. Weiss

manages to step in and trap the Deathstalkers stinger just before it hits Ruby in a solid wall of

ice. Weiss takes this moment to admonish Ruby‟s outlandish behavior and to apologize for herown, coming to a fair compromise between the two of them. Yang finally joins the pair and hugs

her sister thankful for her well being. As a group they decide not to stay and fight, but to grab a

relic and return to the cliffs as was their assignment. Ruby leads the group over the hill and Yangtakes a thoughtful moment to be proud of her little sister.

11:11 - The group splits up amongst the ruins at the base of the cliff to take cover from the still

attacking Nevermore. As they try to come up with a plan, the now free Deathstalker reapersforcing them into action. Nora provide cover fire as the rest advance, and bring Nora with them.

They are crossing a bridge when the Nevermore takes it out leaving half the group fighting the

Deathstalker on the otherside. Jaune says they need to get over there, so Nora uses her weapon tolaunch her and Jaune across the gap. Nora is repealed by the Deathstalker and knocks Blake off.

Blake manages to save herself and in the process attacks the Nevermore. The Nevermore shows

no signs of Damage so Yang decides that their group should hit it with everything they‟ve got.

The Nevermore is unaffected and destroys the structure the group is standing on. Recovering

Ruby comes up with a plan and asks Weiss to cover her. Back to Jauns group, the bridge their onis about to collapse, so he gets the group to make a push forward. Ren weakens the Grimm, and

this allows Pyrrha to cut off its stinger, Nora then delivers the deathblow and the group collapses

in exhaustion and watch the other group. Yang manages to leap into the Nevermore‟s mouth andfires her weapon straight down its throat causing it to smash into the cliff. Weiss than traps it

there with ice, as Blake sets up the slingshot launching Ruby on the other side. Ruby asks Weiss

if she can make the shot, Weiss is indignant that such a question should need to be asked and shelaunches Ruby. With help from Weiss, and her weapon fully deployed Ruby is able to propel



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herself up the cliff decapitating the Nevermore in the process. Everyone else is staring in awe at

Ruby at the top of the cliff.

12:30 - Back at Beacon, Ozpin begins assigning teams base off the relics chosen, as well as teamleaders. Jaune is made team leader of JNPR(Jaune Nora Pyrrha Rein) to which he is completely

surprised, but Pyrrha is not. Ruby is appointed leader of team RWBY(Ruby Weiss Blake Yang)and while Yang is very proud of her sister Weiss is livid that she was not picked to be leader.

13:25 - Torchwick is seen in front of a map of Vale depicting different police jurisdictions, when

a White Fang member comes in with suitcases full of Dust, smiling, Torchwick says they're

going to need more men.

Observation two depicts the first of the many eventual Grimm fights against the students, and

establishes each character's, fighting style strengths, and personality while in the heat of battle.

We get to see how each character responds to stressful situations and reveal their true hearts.Ruby and Jaune rise to the occasion and are accordingly placed as leaders of their now

formalised teams. This observation also grants insight into the complexities of the Grimm and

introduces the concept of Aura more practically.

Between observations the team bonds, and works through some relationship missteps that occur,

mostly perpetrated by Weiss. Weiss comes to accept Ruby as leader, and Ruby in turn resolves

her own doubts. Classes are held and history and culture lessons are given, revealing more about

the White fang‟s origin, and Faunus abuse. Jaune‟s team works through their own turmoil aswell, and it is revealed that Jaune faked documents allowing him to attend Beacon. He is shortly

blackmailed by Cardin, before he stands up for himself and his team, with Pyrrha beginning to

train him in his free time.

Observation 3

Volume 1 Episode 15: The Stray

New characters:

Penny (ref. Pinocchio)- a robotic girl, that no one yet knows is a robot, who is socially

awkward Sun Wukong (ref. Monkey King) - a monkey faunus who occasionally breaks minor

laws

4:00 - Team RWBY is making its way through Vale, as a welcome sign is put up and Weiss

becomes exuberant at the prospect of the coming festival. Ruby comment that she‟s never seenWeiss happy before, and it's kind of weird-ing her out. Yang complains about wasting their

weekend as they reach their destination at the docks, and Ruby agrees plugging her nose at the



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fishy smell. Weiss says that its their duty as citizens of Vale to welcome the students coming in

by boat for the upcoming tournament. Blake translates by calling Weiss out on her desire to spy

on the competition. While waiting they see a nearby crime scene in front of a Dust shop. Thecops are confused because all the money was left in the register, and they begin speculating that

it was White Fang. This comment sets Weiss off and she begins criticizing the White Fang and

their members. Blake begins arguing her about it, and Ruby proposes that it could have beenTorchwick since he still hasn't been caught. Weiss and Blake begin arguing again, but are cutshort by calls from the dock. Rushing back they see a stowaway Faunus(Sun) leaving the ship.

The cops try to arrest him, but he throws a banana at them and begins running, with the cops in

pursuit. As he runs by team RWBY he winks at Blake without pausing and disappears around thecorner . Yang jokes that “there goes the competition”, but Weiss insists on following so RWBY

begins the pursuit as well. As Weiss rounds the corner she bumps into a girl(Penny) and the

police and Sun get out of sight.

7:00 - Penny greets RWBY but makes no move to get up, causing Yang to ask if she was okayand if she wanted to get up. Penny responds affirmatively to both and team RWBY introduces

themselves. Weiss apologises for running into her and Ruby says “take care friend” before the

team turns around, heading back to the docks. Walking back, Yang comments how weird Pennywas and Weiss expresses desires to begin searching for Sun. Penny suddenly appears before the

group again and asks “what did you call me?” Concerned that she overheard Yang apologies, but

Penny waves her off moving to face Ruby. Penny asks if she really was Ruby‟s friend. Theothers make violent gestures for no, but Ruby says yes anyway, leaving Penny very ecstatic.

Realising her mistake, Ruby asks Weiss if it was this bad when they first met. Weiss says that

penny is far more coordinated. Yang asks Panny why shes here and she replies for thetournament. Weiss claims she doesn't look the part, and Blake directs back at Weiss with “says

the girl in a dress”. Weiss claims its a combat skirt and Ruby backs her up.Weiss then asks penny

if she knows Sun to which Blake becomes hostile again. the argument from earlier begins anew,

with added intensity. Blake ends up calling Weiss an “insolent little brat”, only furthering todeepen the divide.

9:30 - Now back at the dorm room, Blake and Weiss are still arguing, with Yang and Ruby off to

the side. Weiss claims that the White Fang is pure evil. Blake denounces her saying theres nosuch thing as pure evil and that the reason the White Fang acts the way it does is because of

discriminatory people like her. Weiss explains that she's the victim, that her father's company has

had a target painted on its back for years and she watched as family friends and board memberswere killed. Blake becomes sympathetic, but Weiss goes on to state that she hates the White

Fang “because they‟re liars thieves and murders” . Blake angrily retorts “Maybe we were just

tired of being pushed around.” Everyone goes quiet and Weiss backs away in fear. Blake,

realising what she said, fleas from the room as fast as she can, leaving Ruby calling after her.

Blake stops outside Beacon and removes the bow on her head covering her cat ears, whilecrying, then Sun appears behind her and says he knew she would look better without the bow.

10:20 - Ruby wakes up the next morning and sighs at Blakes empty bunk. What's left of RWBYhit the streets of Vale and discuss how to find Blake. Weiss is unconcerned, but Ruby is worried

about her. Switching back to Blake, she‟s seen drinking tea with Sun and says “So, you want to

know more about me?”



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Volume 1 Episode 16: Black and White

New characters:

Mercury Black (ref. Roman God of Thieves) - one of Cinder‟s henchmen, veryarrogant and impatient

Emerald Sustrai (ref. Cleopatra/Emerald City) - one of Cinder‟s henchmen, eager to please, sometimes childish

2:30 - With Blake finally speaking Sun‟s put into a good mood. Blake asks Sun if he knows

about the White Fang, he says yes and calls them “holier than thou creeps who use force to get

whatever they want”. He chokes on his tea and is surprised when Blake confirms that she used to be a member. She explains that she was born into the organization, which in the aftermath of war

was ment for peace. When it didn‟t happen she helped in every rally and boycott. Having gotten

them nowhere a new leader took the White Fang in a more violent direction, and it began

working, but not out of respect, out of fear. This is when she decided to leave and insteaddedicated her life to becoming a Huntress, hiding from her past with the help of small bow. After

all this Sun asks if she told her friends.

5:20 - Ruby Weiss and Yang are walking down the streets of Vale calling out Blakes name,

except for Weiss who remains silent. Ruby asks her to help, but Weiss just suggests the police,

only further annoying Ruby. Yang says that they should hear Blakes side first, but Weiss remains

skeptical. Then Penny appears and inquires about their activities. When shes told there searchingfor Blake Penny replies “oh, you mean the Faunus girl” Ruby‟s confused by this and asks how

she knows, Penny says it‟s the cat ears. Yang begins to say, “she doesn't have cat ears she wears

a bow” but trails off toward the end realising the truth. Penny proclaims that she will help, Ruby

tries to say no but Yang and Weiss take the opportunity to desert, so Ruby consents. The sceneshifts to Blake and Sun walking the streets and discussing how to determine the White Fangs role

in the Dust robberies. Sun suggests that they go to where the White Fang would most likely be if

they were behind it and see if they show up. He mentions a huge shipment of Dust coming in onthe docks, and they agree to the plan. Back to Weiss, Yang has become depressed at the outlook

of finding Blake, as Weiss is still infuriated and is still refusing to help, claiming that the

“innocent never run”. Once again on Ruby, Penny is asking question after question and Ruby isdoing her best to answer. Ruby explains that Blake might not be who they thought she was, to

which penny asks if she is a man. Penny says that she doesn't have many friends but if she did

she'd want them to talk to her, Ruby agrees and they continue to search.

10:40 - Blake is staking out the docks, as Sun returns, offering her some food he stole, she

admonishes him f or breaking the law so easily to which he quips back “weren't you in a

cult...okay too soon”. Airships appear and begin unloading White Fang members who begin

securing the Dust. She admits that deep down she must have know, she just didn‟t want to beright, but then Torchwick appears from one of the ships and begins ordering them to hurry up.

Confused as to why the White Fange would work with a human especially one like Torchwick,

she gets closer. She ends up using Torchwick as a hostage and reveals her ears as she asks whythe White Fang is aiding a human. Torchwick explains that they‟re “going in on a joint business

venture” to which two more aircraft appear. Torchwick uses her momentary surprise to escape

and begin attacking Blake. From the streets of town Ruby sees the explosions and begins headingtoward the dock. Meanwhile Blake is forced to retreat, but Sun comes to her rescue and begins



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fighting off White Fang. Blake takes on Torchwick herself and is soon joined by Sun. Torchwick

manages to separate the two and is about to shoot Sun when Ruby appears. Torchwick greets her

saying “Well hello red, isn‟t it past your bedtime?” Penny arrives and accidentally distracts Rubyleaving her open to one of Torchwicks attacks. Angered at the sight of her injured friend Penny

launches into the fight, easily taking out all of the White Fang. The airships begin to attack, but

Penny destroys two and pulls a third to the ground leaving Ruby speechless with awe. Howeverin all the chaos Torchwick manages to escape again exiting with “These kids just keep gettingweirder”.

12:20 - Blake, Sun, Ruby and Penny are all sitting in a circle amidst the police force inspectingthe area, when Yang and Weiss arrive. Ruby rushes to Weiss explaining that Blake isn‟t part of

the White Fang and that she has “kitty ears which are actually kind of cute”. Weiss ignores all of

this and faces Blake detailing the long hours spent searching for her. Weiss claims that in that

time she has decided that as long as she isn‟t a White Fang anymore then she doesn't care, just

that in the future she come to her team first, not someone else, gesturing toward Sun. Blake tearsup, but appreciates it, While Ruby becomes elated that the teams back together. Weiss then states

that she is still unsure about Sun, and Ruby wonders where Penny went. The scene changes to

Penny being driven off in a car with a mysterious man, admonishing Penny for her actions.Ozpin is then seen in his office receiving a message from Qrow saying “The queen has pawns”

15:15 - Cinder Emerald and Mercury, steps out of the shadows and confront Torchwick about hisfailures to obtain Dust. He claims that it was the White Fang who failed, but Cinder, while

igniting a small flame in one hand, tells him he will continue to work with them. Cinder says that

“we have big plans for you Roman all we ask is a little... cooperation.”

Song about Blake during her absence: Wings

This observation really details the implications of being a Faunus, or White Fang, on both a

personal and public level. Blake has been compelled to hide an aspect of herself for fear of

abuse, and mere suggested connection to the White Fang is abhorrent. The beginning ofRWBY‟s vigilante tendencies are also show, in addition their widening circle of friends and the

interplay that goes on between them. Organised crime, and police incompetence are also heavy

elements, and play into the accepted social norm, even if not socially expected.

Between observations, the second semester of the year starts, and team RWBY starts off with an

all out food war against team JNPR, much to the teachers and other students dismay, including

Sun‟s newly introduced teammate Neptune. Many people have begun arr iving in Vale fromacross the globe for the upcoming tournament, and in the influx, Cinder, Emerald and Mercury

have enrolled into Beacon posing as transfer students. The upperclassmen in charge of the

freshman dance, had their away mission extended, leaving Yang and Weiss in charge of

planning, and Blake has begun driving herself into the ground with her investigation intoTorchwick and the White Fang.

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Observation 4

Volume 2 Trailer Volume 2 Opening

Extended Volume 2 Opening Song: Time to Say Goodbye

Volume 2 Episode 6: Burning the Candle

New characters:

Neptune Vasilias (ref. Roman god of Sea) - a tall boy with blue hair, who is very popular and cool

Summer Rose (ref. The Last Rose of Summer poem) - ruby‟s biological mother,

yang‟s stepmother, a skilled huntress and caring mother, now deceased

2:25 - Ruby is seen sitting dejectedly in a dance hall, when Weiss approaches her with two

swatches and asks which table cloth she would prefer. Ruby, confused, asks if they‟re the same,to which Wiess becomes annoyed and walks away. Yang finishes moving some furniture and

approaches Ruby asking her what she will be wearing for the upcoming dance. Ruby respondsthat it won‟t matter if Blake isn‟t going, and Yang assures Ruby Blake will. Yang looks over and

begins yelling at Weiss about her doilies and Weiss returns with an argument about Yang‟s

smoke machines, just in time for Sun and Neptune to arrive. Sun asks if their excited to dress up,Ruby responds with a sarcastic no, but Yang says “i‟ll be turning heads tomorrow night”. Weiss

in turn asks what the boys will be wearing. Sun says he‟s not dressing up, Neptune then hits him

and apologizes for Sun‟s lack of style. After a short argument about his apparel, Sun asks if

Blake is any better. Ruby once again becomes dejected, with Yang again reassuring the groupthat Blake will be attending the dance.

3:25 - Blake is seen with sever bags under her eyes, in the library, working on a terminal, when ared laser pointer appears on her screen. Blake becoming annoyed, looks around. Seeing no one,

she returns to her work, only for the spot to reappear and prance around her desk. Blake, now

furious, stands up and follows the dot until she bumps into yang. Yang grabs blake and says thatthey need to talk.

5:40 - Ren has just stepped out of the bathroom after a shower, when Jaune grabs him, and says

they need to talk. Jaune sits down on a bunk with Ren and starts explaining how Ren has becomehis closest guy friend, almost like a brother. Jaune explains he wants to talk about girls and Jaune

asks Ren how he and Nora got together, leaving Ren studdering shaking his head. From the

opposite bunk, Nora cuts in claiming that she and Ren aren‟t “together together”. Jaune yells thathe told her to keep her headphones on, to which Nora squeaks and quickly puts them back on.Rein, curious, asks Jaune what this is about and Jaune explains he needs advice about Weiss. He

becomes wistful as he recounts all of her attributes, and says he wishes she‟d just give him a

chance. Pyrrha appears in the doorway and advises Jaun, that if he just tells the truth about his

feelings, he can‟t get it wrong. Now encouraged, Jaune thanks his team for their help and leavessmiling. Nora shakes her head and says “Practice what you preach, Pyrrha”.




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9:37 - Yang is seen sitting, in an empty class room, with Blake pacing in front of her. Blake says

that if Yang is here to tell her to stop investigating, she should save her breath. Yang claims that

she doesn't want Blake to stop, just slow down. Blake becomes annoyed, claiming they don‟thave the luxury. Yang in response claims it‟s a necessity and that they will catch Torchwick, but

first Blake needs to hear what she has to say. Blake consenting, sits with Yang. Yang begins a

story of her childhood and explains that she and Ruby grew up in Patch, just outside Vale. Bothof their parents were Huntsmen, with their dad teaching at Signal and their mom(Summer Rose)going on missions. Yang describes Summer as “super mom, baker of cookies and slayer of giant

monsters”. Then, Yang says, one day Summer never returned. Yang claims that Ru by was torn

up, but to little to fully understand, and that her dad “just shut -down”. Yang explains that it wasthen that she learned that this was her father‟s second lost love, the first being Yang‟s mother.

Yang found out that her mother had been on a team with, her dad, her uncle Qrow, and Summer,

and that she was left with her father shortly after her birth. Blake interrupts and asks why her

mother left her. Yang walks to the board, begins drawing and responds that she doesn't know, butshe's driven to find out. She continues her story, explaining how she once found a clue to finding

her mother. She waited for their father to leave, put Ruby in a wagon, and headed out. Yang says

she walked until she was exhausted, but kept pushing until she reached the abandoned building,in the woods, the clue had led her to. Beowolves appeared, and being too tired to fight, Yang and

baby Ruby waited for death, only to be miraculously rescued by their uncle Qrow, wielding a

scythe. Yang regrets her actions, and says her “stubbornness should‟ve gotten them killed that

night”. Blake claims she understands what Yang is trying to say, but that this situation isdifferent, that she isn't a child on a search for answers. Yang repeats that she‟s not asking Blake

to stop, she says she is still searching for her mother to this day, but she won‟t let it control her.

Blake yells that Yang doesn't understand. Yang yells back louder saying that Blake doesn‟tunderstand, and asks what Blake would do if Torchwick walked in the door right now. Blake

says she‟d fight him. Yang says she‟d lose and pushes her. Blake shouts that she‟d stop him,

while weakly pushing back. Yang pushes Blake again, knocking her into the desks, and asks

how, if she can't even stop Yang. Yang then bear hugs Blake and repeats again that she doesn‟tneed to stop, just slow down for the sake of those who care for her. Yang walks away, but as she

exits, she winks and tells blake she‟ll save her a dance.

10:10 - Jaune is smiling and holding a white rose as he walks. Upon seeing Weiss he stops short.

Weiss trots to catch up to Neptune, and asks him if he wants to go to the dance with her. Jaune's

smile falters, he then drops the rose and walks away.

12:33 - Yang is manning the front door of the dance hall, and greats Ruby when she arrives.

Ruby responds angrily about her heels and stumbles through the entrance, to which Yang laughs.

Outside Sun is seen similarly complaining about his tie, when Blake arrives and compliments

him on it. Blake takes his arm as they walk in and Sun asks if this means they're going together.

The camera pans over the dancehall‟s decorations and party goers. Blake is then seen finishing adance with Yang, before re-joining Sun. Yang joins Weiss and Ruby and the three watch Blake

dance for a while, happy that she's enjoying herself. Ruby asks what they should do now, Yang

responds with have fun, as she returns to her post, and Weiss walks away. Ruby calls out askingif that means she can take of her heels and change into her hood. Ozpin then joins Ruby and asks

her if she‟s enjoying herself. Ruby says she‟s just not a social person. Ozpin explains that social

events like this are just as important as combat practice, as it strengthens the bonds between the



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Huntsmen, to which Ruby makes some pessimistic remarks. Yang is then seen greeting some late

arrivals. Emerald and Mercury enter, and say they “wouldn't‟ve missed it for the world “.

Song about Ruby‟s reaction at losing her mom: Red Like Roses II Song about Yang‟s reaction at losing her mom: Die

Volume 2 Episode 7: Dance Dance Infiltration

New characters:

James Ironwood (ref. Tin man) - the headmaster of an academy in Atlas and a military

general

2:30 – The camera pans over partygoers including Glynda reluctantly dancing with ironwood.

Jaune joins Ruby in hiding by the punch bowl, and makes a toast to the socially awkward, which

Ruby happily joins in. Ruby expresses sympathy for Jaune's Weiss situation. Jaune says heunderstand why she came chose Neptune, considering how cool he is. At this Ruby becomes

confused, and says that Weiss came alone. Now Jaune becomes surprised, as he looks around

and sees Weiss sitting alone and Neptune hanging out with Blake and Sun. Jaune becomes angryand begins marching towards Neptune, but stops short when he sees a depressed Pyrrha exitingthe room heading toward the empty roof.

6:06 – Jaune has followed Pyrah, and upon catching up to her on the roof, compliments her onher dress. He then says he hopes her date is okay with him saying that. Pyrrha says she doesn‟t

have a date, because no one asked her. Jaune is incredulous, citing her as “The Pyrrha Nikos”,

and asking how no one could ask her. She explains that being a world renowned fighter and

always being at the top of her class over the years has put her on a pedestal, making those aroundher feel inferior. She says that‟s why she likes Jaune so much, because when they met he didn‟t

even know her name. She says he is the kind of guy she wishes she was here with, and walks

back into the dance hall. Jaune calls out for her, but is interrupted by Neptune‟s arrival. Neptune begins idle conversation and calls the dance lame, but the girls cute. At this Jaune returns to his

previous anger, and yells at Neptune for not caring about the girls he interacts with. Neptune is

taken aback and asks why Jaune is so angry. Jaune replies that its Weiss, and asks why Neptune

rejected her. Neptune mumbles an excuse, to which Jaune begins berating him, until Neptuneshouts that he doesn‟t know how to dance. Jaune is surprised, because of how cool Neptune

seems, and asks if Neptune would really break a heart instead of admitting weakness. Neptune

affirms this and says he doesn‟t want to get in Jaune's way. Jaune calms down and asks if Neptune likes Weiss. Neptune says he doesn‟t know her that well, but he thinks he does. Jaune

sighs and says Neptune should just go talk to her, and that hes been told honesty is the way to go.

Neptune thanks him and leaves. Jaune now alone, mutters “only one thing left to do”.

9:05 - Yang and Ruby are seen surveying the dancefloor from the balcony, and Yang says “theyneeded this”. Ruby compliments Yang on the party, which results in a returned strangle hug, as

Yang points out that Weiss helped too. The pair then notices Neptune approach Weiss and begin

conversing. Yang complains that it‟s only for today and tomorrow its back to work. Rubyremains conf ident that they‟ll be able to handle it, until she trails off as a commotion breaks out

on the dance floor. Everyone is pointing and laughing at Jaune who has appeared in a dress.

Pyrrha most of all is surprised and tells him that she hadn‟t taken the bet seriously. Jaune says

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that he never goes back on his word and invites Pyrrha to dance. Nora becomes ecstatic, grabs

Rein, and the JNPR team begins dancing center floor, as the audience cheers them on. Pyrrha is

impressed with Jaune's dancing skill, and he explains “these things happen when you grow upwith seven sisters”. Meanwhile Weiss asks Neptune what made him change his mind and

convinced him to come talk to her. Neptune points to the dress clad twirling Jaune on the dance

floor and says you're looking at him. Weiss smiles and agrees that she has good friends lookingout for her. Off to the side Mercury and Emerald are dancing, as they begin talking through ear pieces to Cinder. Cinder inquires about the timing and the pair answers “by midnight to be safe”.

Ruby still partnerless makes her way outside for some air when she sees an masked

figure(Cinder) leaping across rooftops. Ruby becomes concerned and perseus.

12:25 - Cinder arrives at the Cross-Continental Transmit Tower, knocks out the guard, and hides

his body in the bushes. Upon entering the guards warn Cinder that this is a restricted area. With

Cinder continuing to advance the guards attack. Cinder glows and creates two black glass

swords, that she effectively uses to easily dispatch the guards. Two guards are seen in theelevator discussing the wi-fi password, when the doors open to Cinder standing over their fallen

comrades. They grip their weapons and shift uncertainty as Cinder enters the elevator and the

doors close. Ruby, now outside the tower, notices the guard poking out of the bushes. Inresponse she pulls out her scroll and calls her rocket propelled locker, which shortly arrives on

site, depositing Crescent Rose. Cinder exits the elevator, now containing two more unconscious

guards, on the top floor and makes her way to the main communication console. Cinder beginsusing the console, when Emerald informs her that Ironwood is leaving the party early. Emerald

asks if she should intervene, as the silhouette of a chess queen appears on Cinders console.

Cinder says no, that their finished anyway and makes her way back to the elevator, but quicklyhides when Ruby enters. Ruby stumbles in with her heels and her weapon draw, cautious about

the seemingly empty room. Cinder, dismissing Ruby as a threat, reveals herself and attacks with

a bow created similar to her swords. Ruby holds her own, but is distracted by the elevator once

again opening, depositing Ironwood. By the time Ruby looks back, her masked foe(Cinder) hasdisappeared.

14:00 - Cinder rushes through a side entrance to the dancehall, with guards in hot pursuit. Cinder

changes out of her clothes and into a dress, before entering the room . The guards burst into thedance shortly after, but are unable to distinguish who or where she is. Cinder cuts into Emeralds

dance and begins dancing with Mercury, while recounting the nights events. Cinder informs

them that despite the excitement, their adversaries will still be scratching their heads long aftertheir gone. She tells them to finish enjoying their night, because it is a party. Cinder smiles as the

clock strikes twelve and the camera shows groups of confused guards, and ruby sitting dejectedly

with Ironwood, ending on a flickering screen displaying the chess queen.

In this observation, we get a better sense of school life, as all the freshman attend a dance. Therecreational atmosphere allows us to see students interact outside of class, and express more

romantical aspects. Social customs are prevalent throughout, from who asks whom to the dance

and how, but how people react to certain couplings or lack thereof. Not to mention Ruby‟s solotackling of Cinder, and Cinder‟s ease of fitting into the crowd.



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This is a mock interview with the main character of RWBY, Ruby Rose. The answers are based

on how the character would most likely respond if asked the same question. Using Ruby as theinterviewee is useful because the show itself, while depicted as third person, is often portrayed asRuby would experience it. RWBY is also a coming of age style show for the four main

characters and this is exemplified most by Ruby as she is significantly younger than the others.

Interview: Ruby Rose

1. Explain to me why you want to become a Huntress?Well, my parents always raised me to be good and to help others, plus I love fighting

monsters. The police are okay, but being a Huntress is so much more romantic, and exciting and

cool,.. yah know..? My father was actually a Huntsman himself, my mom and stepmom werealso Huntresses even my sister is currently training to become a Huntress. I‟ve always loved to

help people and the world isn‟t calm and peaceful like it is in the stories I used to make my sister

read to me before bed. People in real life don‟t always get a happy ending, but thats why

Huntsmen are here. To try and make it a little better. Thats why I want to be a Huntress, so I cangrant as many happy endings as possible.

2. Tell me about your roommates, what are their reasons for being at Beacon?

I can only speak for the others in so much as they've told me, but my sister Yang hassimilar reasons for being here as I do. However, ever since my stepmom, my Yang‟s mom, left

for a mission and never came back, Yang has been chasing every lead she can find to locate her.

She‟s partly becoming a Huntress just so she can protect me more, and become stronger to find

out what happened to our mom. As for my partner Weiss, and Yang‟s partner Blake, I know lessabout their reasons. Blake‟s here to help fight monsters, because she believes she needs to atone

for the misdeeds she committed while still part of the White Fang, not to mention that Vale, is

one of the least discriminatory kingdom toward Faunus. Wiess, being the airiss to one of thelargest Dust companies in the world, has the least clear reason for attending Beacon. So far all I

can figure out is that it might be a way to train her to prevent assassins‟ attacks on her life, as the

White Fang would love to, or to prove herself worthy of the industrial empire she will one dayinherit.

3. Describe the experience, and how you feel, about being pushed two years ahead in

school.

The opportunity was a dream come true, and even now I wouldn‟t trade it for the world,

but at first I was really nervous and concerned about how the other students would treat me,since I was so much younger. I didn‟t want to be seen as special, I just wanted to be normal and

fit in. My sister was overjoyed though, and she kept me from having a meltdown the first day.

Then we had are initiation and Weiss called me a child, that and other things she said, not tomention I was made leader of our team, made me feel like it was a mistake and that I didn‟t

deserve to be here. Then I had a talk with the headmaster and a fellow team leader. They got me

back on track, me and my team bonded, made friends, and eventually I did just fit in, peoplestopped seeing me as a little kid. They saw I could do this.



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4. How do you feel about the White Fang and the Faunus in general, and what do you

think should be done if anything about their situation?

Well, my sister and I grew up in Vale which has the lowest White Fang presence of thefour kingdoms, so I don‟t have much firsthand experience with them, only what people and the

news tell me. I sympathize with the Faunus, Blake is no different than any of us, she just has cute

little kitty ears, but she‟s forced to hide them, because she‟s afraid of the discrimination they‟ll bring. I‟ve heard from her and others about how the White Fang started off as organised peaceful protests, but things only got worse for the Faunus and they soon began using violence to meet

their ends. While I think that Faunus are just as equal as Humans, and should be treated as such,

robbery and killing isn‟t the way to go about achieving it. Actions like these only widen thedivide and prove that the‟re no better than the oppressive humans they fight.

5. Give an example of a challenge you faced as the leader of team RWBY, and how you

learned and improved because of it.

The first challenge I had, was just being a leader. I‟d never been a leader before, becauseI prefer to go solo, and I‟m usually anti-social. I had to learn how to motivate and organize my

team despite my being younger than all of them. Weiss in particular had trouble accepting that

she had been passed over for the position and I became sure it was a mistake. After somemotivation from friends Weiss and I patched things up and I realised I could have self doubt

anymore, because if I‟m not working at my best, what reason do I give for those who follow me

to give their best. With this knowledge I was able to help Jaune with his own leadership

struggles, but right after that, I had my second challenge. Blake had accidentally revealed shewas a Faunus and had connections to the White Fang. This caused instant friction between her

and Weiss and Blake ran away because of it. We spent forever searching for Blake, and just as

long as we were searching I spent convincing Weiss of Blake‟s and to a larger extend Faunus‟innocence. It was equally challenging to convince Blake to stop running after we found her. I

thought for sure the team was going to be shattered time and time again, but because of these

events our team is stronger and we know that we‟ll come to each other first when we have a

problem, before doing anything else.

Song about Ruby‟s doubts: I May Fall

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***All Images/Videos/Music are from www.roosterteeth.com or www.rwby.wikia.com***

All content from rwby.wikia is uploaded by users for community use and usually consist of

screenshots from the episodes themselves.

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http://www.rwby.wikia.com/





assignment one draft 3

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