#cargo shipping companies near me

[eshippro12345]

What is the difference between FOB and CIF?

International Shipping Logistics Company in UAE

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Whether you're selling or buying goods, understanding the different types of shipping contracts-like FOB and CIF-will help you better understand your responsibilities throughout a transaction. This in turn will help you reduce risk and lead to a smoother supply chain. So what is the difference between FOB and CIF? And how does it affect the import and export process?

Free on board (FOB) and cost, insurance, and freight (CIF) are two important rules governing domestic and international trade. These contracts determine ownership and liability from the port of origin to the destination. FOB and CIF are both Incoterms-rules for cargo transport that the International Chamber of

Commerce maintains. Incoterms determine each party's duties and dictate the transfer of ownership during a transaction.

It is vital that companies shipping or receiving goods internationally understand the important implications FOB and CIF have on shipping costs and risks.

FOB: Giving control to the buyer

The FOB Incoterm places most of the responsibility for shipping on the buyer. The seller hands off the goods to the buyer's carrier service at the port. Once the goods cross the ship's rail onto the deck, the supplier's arrangements have ended.

All further responsibilities for freight logistics and unloading belong to the buyer. After the seller delivers the goods onto the vessel at the port of origin, the buyer's chosen carrier transports the goods to the destination.

Buyer Responsibilities:

In FOB, the buyer is responsible for the following:

Paying the freight costs

Paying import duties and clearing customs

Unloading at the destination

When shipping FOB, the seller does not have to pay import duties or manage customs documents for import.

Types of FOB terms:

While FOB makes the buyer responsible for most shipping arrangements after the port of origin, the party that bears the risk for the goods depends on the specific type of FOB terms. There are two types of FOB contracts that determine ownership and liability for products in International Shipments.

FOB DESTINATION:

In FOB destination terms, the seller or exporter remains responsible for the safety of the cargo while it is in transport. Due to this liability, a seller might wish to purchase insurance on the goods. This is similar to CIF terms; however, CIF carries added costs and insurance requirements for the seller.

FOB ORIGIN:

In FOB origin (also known as FOB shipping point), the supplier officially completes the sale by transferring the cargo to its shipping carrier. The buyer becomes responsible for all liability as soon as the goods reach the carrier at the port of origin.

Insurance for FOB:

Neither FOB destination nor FOB origin requires the seller or the buyer to provide Freight Insurance. However, insurance helps reduce the cost of potential damages or losses during water transport.

When shipping FOB destination, the seller should consider purchasing insurance to cover potential losses. When shipping FOB origin, the buyer should consider purchasing insurance for their goods during shipping.

Whether you choose destination or origin depends on the specifics of the transaction and the risk you’re willing to accept. A third-party logistics provider like Dubai Freight Forwarders offers a range of supply chain solutions to manage origin facilities, forecast freight costs, and optimize transportation.

CIF: Giving control to the seller

The CIF Incoterm places the responsibility for paying most shipping expenses on the seller.

Responsibilities for CIF:

When shipping with CIF terms, the seller holds responsibility for the following:

Shipping the goods to the destination port

Paying the freight costs

Paying for cargo insurance

Under a CIF contract, the buyer chooses the port where the seller must deliver the goods. The seller pays for all freight expenses to deliver the shipment to that port. Because the seller must manage the freight and delivery, CIF terms always include a port of destination.

Insurance for CIF:

CIF is one of only two Incoterms that mandate that one party (the seller) provides cargo insurance throughout the shipment’s journey to its port of destination.

Choosing between FOB and CIF:

Companies buying and selling internationally should weigh the benefits of FOB versus CIF before choosing either option. For your company, the right choice comes down to the specific circumstances of the transaction, your shipping experience, and your preference for responsibility.

When to choose FOB over CIF:

Buying FOB requires the buyer to bear much more responsibility for the shipping and delivery of the cargo. However, this can be an advantage. Because FOB transfers the freight responsibility to the buyer, the buyer has an opportunity to search for better freight rates. If you’re purchasing goods, you’ll be able to choose your preferred (and trusted) freight forwarder.

As a buyer, you could also have better access to tracking information for the shipment using FOB. For example, e-Ship offers companies access to real-time data through a supply chain control tower. Finally, by choosing a trusted logistics partner, you can gain better support for your FOB shipments.

When to choose CIF over FOB:

New buyers or importers sometimes choose CIF when purchasing international goods because it reduces the need for logistics management on their end. Since the seller handles loading and freight, the buyer simply has to arrange pickup. This can be an optimal arrangement for inexperienced importers who aren't yet familiar with International Shipping.

However, this usually also leads to higher costs for the buyer because the exporter can choose shipping rates. For example, the seller might increase their margins on the products to cover the costs.

Generally, it's wise to choose FOB if you're buying international goods

[eshippro]

What is the difference between FOB and CIF?

International Shipping Logistics Company in UAE

https://e-ship.sg/assets/img/blog/what-is-the-difference-between-fob-and-cif.jpg

Whether you're selling or buying goods, understanding the different types of shipping contracts-like FOB and CIF-will help you better understand your responsibilities throughout a transaction. This in turn will help you reduce risk and lead to a smoother supply chain. So what is the difference between FOB and CIF? And how does it affect the import and export process?

Free on board (FOB) and cost, insurance, and freight (CIF) are two important rules governing domestic and international trade. These contracts determine ownership and liability from the port of origin to the destination. FOB and CIF are both Incoterms-rules for cargo transport that the International Chamber of

Commerce maintains. Incoterms determine each party's duties and dictate the transfer of ownership during a transaction.

It is vital that companies shipping or receiving goods internationally understand the important implications FOB and CIF have on shipping costs and risks.

FOB: Giving control to the buyer

The FOB Incoterm places most of the responsibility for shipping on the buyer. The seller hands off the goods to the buyer's carrier service at the port. Once the goods cross the ship's rail onto the deck, the supplier's arrangements have ended.

All further responsibilities for freight logistics and unloading belong to the buyer. After the seller delivers the goods onto the vessel at the port of origin, the buyer's chosen carrier transports the goods to the destination.

Buyer Responsibilities:

In FOB, the buyer is responsible for the following:

Paying the freight costs

Paying import duties and clearing customs

Unloading at the destination

When shipping FOB, the seller does not have to pay import duties or manage customs documents for import.

Types of FOB terms:

While FOB makes the buyer responsible for most shipping arrangements after the port of origin, the party that bears the risk for the goods depends on the specific type of FOB terms. There are two types of FOB contracts that determine ownership and liability for products in International Shipments.

FOB DESTINATION:

In FOB destination terms, the seller or exporter remains responsible for the safety of the cargo while it is in transport. Due to this liability, a seller might wish to purchase insurance on the goods. This is similar to CIF terms; however, CIF carries added costs and insurance requirements for the seller.

FOB ORIGIN:

In FOB origin (also known as FOB shipping point), the supplier officially completes the sale by transferring the cargo to its shipping carrier. The buyer becomes responsible for all liability as soon as the goods reach the carrier at the port of origin.

Insurance for FOB:

Neither FOB destination nor FOB origin requires the seller or the buyer to provide Freight Insurance. However, insurance helps reduce the cost of potential damages or losses during water transport.

When shipping FOB destination, the seller should consider purchasing insurance to cover potential losses. When shipping FOB origin, the buyer should consider purchasing insurance for their goods during shipping.

Whether you choose destination or origin depends on the specifics of the transaction and the risk you’re willing to accept. A third-party logistics provider like Dubai Freight Forwarders offers a range of supply chain solutions to manage origin facilities, forecast freight costs, and optimize transportation.

CIF: Giving control to the seller

The CIF Incoterm places the responsibility for paying most shipping expenses on the seller.

Responsibilities for CIF:

When shipping with CIF terms, the seller holds responsibility for the following:

Shipping the goods to the destination port

Paying the freight costs

Paying for cargo insurance

Under a CIF contract, the buyer chooses the port where the seller must deliver the goods. The seller pays for all freight expenses to deliver the shipment to that port. Because the seller must manage the freight and delivery, CIF terms always include a port of destination.

Insurance for CIF:

CIF is one of only two Incoterms that mandate that one party (the seller) provides cargo insurance throughout the shipment’s journey to its port of destination.

Choosing between FOB and CIF:

Companies buying and selling internationally should weigh the benefits of FOB versus CIF before choosing either option. For your company, the right choice comes down to the specific circumstances of the transaction, your shipping experience, and your preference for responsibility.

When to choose FOB over CIF:

Buying FOB requires the buyer to bear much more responsibility for the shipping and delivery of the cargo. However, this can be an advantage. Because FOB transfers the freight responsibility to the buyer, the buyer has an opportunity to search for better freight rates. If you’re purchasing goods, you’ll be able to choose your preferred (and trusted) freight forwarder.

As a buyer, you could also have better access to tracking information for the shipment using FOB. For example, e-Ship offers companies access to real-time data through a supply chain control tower. Finally, by choosing a trusted logistics partner, you can gain better support for your FOB shipments.

When to choose CIF over FOB:

New buyers or importers sometimes choose CIF when purchasing international goods because it reduces the need for logistics management on their end. Since the seller handles loading and freight, the buyer simply has to arrange pickup. This can be an optimal arrangement for inexperienced importers who aren't yet familiar with International Shipping.

However, this usually also leads to higher costs for the buyer because the exporter can choose shipping rates. For example, the seller might increase their margins on the products to cover the costs.

Generally, it's wise to choose FOB if you're buying international goods

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[courierduniablog]

How to Calculate Courier Charges from India to UK

International Courier from India to UK might seem like a difficult task, but it’s easier than you think! Whether you're a small business owner, a student, or just sending a gift to a friend, understanding how to calculate courier charges is important. This is a short guide to help you get started with the process of courier charges from India to UK. We’ll cover everything you need to know in easy-to-understand steps.

Best International Courier Services in Gurgaon by CourierDunia

We offers exceptional International courier Services in Gurgaon, ensuring your packages reach their destinations swiftly and securely. Based in the heart of India’s capital, CourierDunia provides reliable and efficient delivery solutions for all your global shipping needs. With a strong customer satisfaction, our International Courier in Gurgaon services guarantee timely deliveries and real-time tracking, giving you peace of mind every step of the way. Whether you're sending documents, parcels, or specialized items, trust CourierDunia to handle your shipments with care and professionalism.

1. Understanding the Concept of International Shipping

Before diving into the specifics of calculating courier charges from India to UK. It's essential to some fundamental concepts. Here’s an in-depth look at what you need to know:

An international courier is a service that delivers packages from one country to another. For example, if you want to send a parcel from India, you will use an international courier in India. This service ensures your package reaches its destination safely and on time.

Why Use an International Courier?

Using an international courier has many benefits:

Speed: International couriers deliver packages quickly.

Safety: They ensure your package is handled with care.

Tracking: You can track your package at every step of the journey.

When sending an international courier services from India to UK, or any other place, these services ensure your package reaches its destination efficiently.

2. Choosing the Right International Courier Service

There are many International Courier in India, and choosing the right one can make a big difference in terms of cost and delivery time. Sending a package internationally is more than just dropping it off and hoping for the best. The right courier service, such as CourierDunia, can make all the difference in terms of speed, cost, and reliability.

Reliability

A good courier service ensures that your package arrives safely and on time. They handle your items with care and provide consistent service, giving you peace of mind.

Speed

Reliable courier services from India to UK offer different delivery options to meet your needs. Whether you need express delivery for urgent shipments or standard delivery for non-urgent packages, you can choose the option that best suits your timeline.

Cost-Effective

A good courier service provides the best value for your money. They provide competitive prices without sacrificing the quality of their offerings. This balance helps you manage your shipping budget effectively.

Tracking

One of the significant advantages of using a reputable International courier in India can track your package every step of the way. Real-time tracking allows you to monitor the progress of your shipment, ensuring transparency and peace of mind.

Customer Support

A quality courier service must have outstanding customer service. They provide help and support when you need it, whether it's answering your queries, resolving issues, or providing updates on your shipment. Reliable customer support ensures a smooth and hassle-free shipping experience.

By choosing a good courier service like CourierDunia, you can enjoy these benefits and ensure that your packages are handled professionally and efficiently. These services have their own rates and delivery times. When planning International shipping from India to UK, comparing these services can help you find the best option.

3. Factors Affecting Courier Charges

Courier charges from India to UK are influenced by several factors. Understanding these will help you estimate the cost accurately. For instance, knowing the India to UK shipping cost per kg can provide a clearer idea of the overall expense.

Weight and Dimensions of the Package

The weight and size of your package are the primary factors that determine the cost. Most courier services have a rate chart based on weight. Heavier and larger packages cost more to ship.

Distance Between the Two Countries

The distance between India and UK also affects the shipping cost. Longer distances usually mean higher costs. However, established routes like international shipping cost from India to UK might have more competitive rates due to higher volume.

Delivery Speed

Courier services offer different delivery speeds to suit your needs:

Standard Delivery: This option takes longer but is more affordable. It's ideal for packages that are not time-sensitive.

Express Delivery: This is a faster option, but it comes at a higher cost. It's perfect for urgent deliveries that need to reach their destination quickly.

Choosing the right delivery speed is important when sending an International Shipping from India to UK, or any other country. It helps balance cost and urgency according to your specific requirements.

Additional Services

Additional services like insurance, tracking, and signature on delivery can add to the cost of International Shipping from India to UK. These are optional but provide extra security for your package, ensuring it reaches its destination safely and securely despite the complexities of international logistics and customs procedures.

4. How to Calculate Courier Charges

Now that you understand the factors affecting courier charges, let's see how to calculate them.

Step 1: Weigh Your Package

The first step is to weigh your package. Use a weighing scale to find the exact weight in kilograms or pounds. This measurement is crucial as it directly influences the Shipping Charges from India to UK. Most courier services have specific weight categories, and knowing the precise weight of your package will help you get an accurate estimate.

Step 2: Measure the Dimensions

Next, measure the length, width, and height of your package in centimeters or inches. This is important because some courier services use dimensional weight for pricing. Dimensional weight is calculated based on the size of the package, not just its actual weight. By providing accurate dimensions, you ensure that your shipping charges from India to UK is calculated correctly.

Step 3: Choose a Courier Service

Based on your needs and budget, choose a courier service. Visit their website or contact their customer service to get a rate quote. Be sure to provide the accurate weight and dimensions of your package to receive an accurate estimate. This will help you compare costs and find the best option for your shipping to UK from India.

Step 4: Check for Additional Charges

Look out for any additional charges such as fuel surcharges, remote area surcharges, or customs fees. These extra costs can significantly increase the overall shipping expense. It's important to account for these potential charges when calculating the total cost to avoid any surprises.

Step 5: Calculate the Total Cost

Add the base rate and any additional charges to calculate the total cost. This final amount is what you will need to pay to send your package from India to UK. By including both the base rate and any extra fees, you’ll get a clear picture of the overall shipping charges from India to UK.

5. Tips to Save on Courier Charges

Sending an international courier from India to UK price may be different, or any other country can be expensive. Here are some tips to help you save money:

Compare Rates

Don’t settle for the first courier service you find. Compare rates from different providers to find the best deal. Many websites allow you to compare rates from multiple couriers.

Use Standard Delivery

If your package is not urgent, opt for standard delivery. It's slower but much cheaper than express delivery. This can significantly reduce the courier price from India to UK.

Pack Efficiently

Pack your items efficiently to reduce the size and weight of your package. Use bubble wrap and sturdy boxes to protect your items without adding unnecessary weight, which can help you save on courier rates from India to UK.

Ship in Bulk

If you have multiple packages, try to ship them together. Many courier services offer discounts for bulk shipping, reducing the overall courier cost to UK from India.

Check for Discounts

Look for discounts and promotional offers. Many courier services offer special rates for students, businesses, and frequent shippers. When researching India to UK courier charges, these discounts can significantly reduce your expenses.

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

When sending an international courier from India to UK, avoid these common mistakes to ensure a smooth experience:

Incorrect Address

Double-check the address to avoid delays and additional charges for re-delivery.

Incomplete Documentation

Ensure all necessary documents are filled out correctly. Missing or incorrect documentation can cause delays.

Not Insuring Valuable Items

Always insure valuable items. It provides financial protection in case of loss or damage during transit.

Ignoring Customs Regulations

Familiarize yourself with the customs regulations of the destination country. Ignoring these can result in your package being held up or returned.

Conclusion

Calculating India to UK courier charges doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding the factors that affect the cost and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can estimate the charges accurately. Remember to compare rates, choose the right service, and avoid common mistakes to ensure a smooth and cost-effective shipping experience. Whether you’re sending an international courier from India to UK, these tips will help you navigate the process very smoothly.

[yuvaraniyuva]

Pon Pure Expres | Best Express Cargo Service & Solutions

Pon Pure Expres offers the best parcel and daily cargo service.We are specialized in delivering intercity parcels. Get customer portal, door pick up service & more

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[myhomecargo]

China's Finest: Leading Shipping Companies Setting Sail

Embark on a seamless shipping experience with China's top-notch shipping firms. These industry giants redefine global logistics, ensuring the swift and secure movement of goods. With cutting-edge solutions, they excel in connecting businesses worldwide. Trust the proficiency of shipping companies in China to elevate your international trade ventures. As you navigate the seas of commerce, these trailblazers guarantee efficiency and reliability. Choose excellence and sail confidently with the premier shipping companies in China, setting the course for success in global trade.

[itsisologistics]

Looking for Trusted Shipping Company in JAFZA

ITS Logistics is the go-to option when looking for a trustworthy shipping company in JAFZA. We are committed to provide excellent logistics solutions that satisfy your shipping demands. We have years of experience and a significant presence in the Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (Jafza). By connecting your company to markets around the world through our vast network, we make international shipping simple.

[epscurrier]

Eps Global World Wide Courier Services

Overseas shipping services have been quite useful to people in this age of globalization. Lots of people live and work overseas and for them, international shipping services have become a must-have. They often need to send or receive all kinds of items to their friends & family members in their home countries. The right international shipping company can help you when you need it. When it comes to the right balance of values, most successful companies prioritize timely deliveries and providing a personalized experience. EPS Global provides such World Wide Courier Services.

Few Tips to find the best Cargo courier service

• The longer a company has been around, the better they are at what they do. If they've been in business for 30 years, you know that they're doing something right. You should always choose a logistic company with the most years of experience for your parcel security and on-time delivery • It's always a good idea to be mindful of feedback left by others. This includes testimonials, ratings, and reviews which can tell you the overall quality of the service you'll receive. • When a company quotes you about pricing for their services, don't forget to ask about the opposite features of these prices. For example, international cargo services might offer offloading, reloading, and other standalone services. The goal isn't to compete with lower prices but rather to get an offer with better services and quality. • Speed is one of the most important factors for parcels or shipments. They need to be delivered as quickly as possible, which makes it all about your commitment to service time. Make sure the logistics company you choose does not delay your parcels and delivers them on time. EPS has experience in all of the needful requirements for international shipping as it is one of the leading companies in this industry of worldwide courier services. EPS offers door-to-door pickup, expert packaging, and timely delivery with their tech-enabled facility. At first glance, these services might seem like they're only good for order fulfillment and warehousing. However, their platform can also be used to track inventory in complete detail. That way you always know where your product is at and what needs to happen. There are 100+ courier services in India so it's important you choose one that you can rely on to help make sure your package arrives successfully and cost-effectively. We recommend you consider putting one of the trusted and experienced freight services responsible for the delivery of your shipment. Also read: Fastest International Air Parcel Service In India For the latest Update visit our Instagram page

[marlynnofmany]

Early Efforts

 I was keeping Wio company in the cockpit, because piloting can be boring in empty space, when an alert dinged. Wio paused her story about an underwater race she’d won on her home planet. I held my questions while she tapped the controls, tentacles dancing across the console. Finally she sat back and relaxed.

 “Nothing big,” she told me. “Just a bit of metal junk among the rock.” One of the smaller screens zoomed in on a patch of space that turned out to hold a tumbling asteroid. “It doesn’t register as any known weapon, so it’s probably not a lost mine or what-have-you.”

 Surprised, I looked around the cockpit as if it would give me a view through the walls. “Is this area known for those?”

 “Nope,” said Wio. “But space is big and time is long. It wouldn’t be the first time idiots fighting each other didn’t give a flip about the rest of the universe.”

 “Yeah, or the last,” I agreed. “So what is it, if it’s not dangerous? Can we tell?��

 Wio turned a few knobs and flicked a switch. “Not from this distance. The readings I’m getting are of common ship-building materials.”

 “So it’s from a crash? Do you think it was that crash?” I pointed over my shoulder, again as if we could simply look back to see the wreck I meant. I probably wasn’t even pointing in the right direction. We hadn’t seen the joyriding accident in person, just heard about it when we picked up our latest cargo.

 “Ehh,” Wio said, studying a complicated set of imagery. “Don’t think so. Pretty sure the angle’s wrong. Possible, but unlikely.”

 “If it is, do you think they’ll want their part back?”

 “Depends on what shape it’s in,” Wio said with a wrinkle of her octopuslike forehead. “We’d have better odds selling it for scrap at the next station with a good mechanic’s sector.”

 I scanned the many screens and readouts, trying to get a feel for how much of a detour it was. “Do you think that’s worth checking?”

 “Sure do,” Wio said cheerily, tapping buttons and touchscreens, adjusting dials and fiddling with a couple odd bits on the console that I’m pretty sure were there just for fidgeting purposes. Wio was rarely still.

 “Should we — oh, you already pinged her.” I spotted the little red light that said the captain had been called. I expected a comm call as soon as Captain Sunlight got a spare moment, but she must have been nearby, because she just showed up at the door.

 “Yes?” asked Captain Sunlight, posture as regal as ever and scales a slightly brighter yellow than usual. I still hadn’t found a polite way to ask if the Heatseekers on the ship polished their scales or shed them in privacy for that occasional fresh look. Now certainly wasn’t the time.

 Wio spun in her chair. “Permission to make a minor detour for potential salvage?”

 “Show me.” The captain walked over for a better look, about head height since I was sitting down. She peered at the various readings and gave permission.

 And, since it really was a very minor detour, she just stood there and waited while we closed in on the lump of rock and metal. Soon enough we could see it on the main screen: turning end over end, traveling in roughly the same direction we were, just much slower.

 “No radioactivity,” Wio reported. “No air pockets either, and the chance of germs is near-zero.”

 “The components seem relatively straightforward for a bit of simple machinery,” said the captain, reading a chart that I’d thought listed something else.

 While they went over the analysis, I reflected that I really should ask Wio to teach me the basics of the controls in here. Not enough to fly — I was fully aware of how much training went into that — but just enough so I didn’t feel like an idiot Earthling who’d never been to space before when more than one screen was active.

 “Let’s use the grabber,” Captain Sunlight said. “I’ll prep the cargo bay.” She made several calls to different parts of the ship while Wio unfolded a portion of the controls that I hadn’t seen yet. It was labeled “Grabbing Arm.”

 “Ooh, how’s that work?” I asked.

 “It’s nice and intuitive for once,” Wio said as she ignored it for long enough to steer us right alongside the spinning lump. She locked the speed in (but didn’t make us spin to match it, thankfully. That would have been a bit much). Then she turned her attention back to the panel. It held several regular-sized buttons and one large black one — oh wait, that was a hole.

 When Wio stuck her tentacle in to manipulate the grabbing arm, I quietly shook my head. Of course it’s that kind of arm, I thought as a mechanical tentacle uncurled into view outside. Why would I expect anything with fingers on a ship made by Strongarms? 

 Captain Sunlight finished talking to whoever was in the cargo bay, and gave Wio the go-ahead. I watched the main screen as the grabber lined up carefully with the spinning mass of rock and metal, then gave it a calculated whack. A piece broke off and it stopped spinning.

 Wio peered at a readout. “Nonvaluable mineral,” she said. “I’ll just get the big part.”

 “How big is it?” I asked belatedly, not sure of the grabber’s size for reference. One of the screens probably said.

 “Small enough to fit!” Wio said. With a look of intense concentration (and several tentacles fidgeting behind her), she wrapped the metal grabbing arm around the asteroid and pulled it in.

 “I’m off to the cargo bay,” announced Captain Sunlight. “Keep it nice and gentle.”

 “Will do. No explosions of dirt on the floor if I can help it.”

 Captain Sunlight nodded, even though Wio was watching the screen, and she left. I looked between the two.

 “I’m going to see if I can help,” I said, getting up.

 “Sure thing. I’ll watch from here.” Wio gestured with another tentacle at a small screen on the side that had a great view of the cargo bay. Several crewmembers were waiting by the airlock.

 I hurried down the hall on my long human legs. I wanted to see what this thing was. Maybe it was important, or valuable, or both. Probably not, but who knew?

 When I got there, the airlock was already closed again, and Eggskin was putting away their hand scanner. Blip and Blop each had a hand on the lumpy rock about the size of a two-person hoverbike. They seemed to be the designated “hold it in place” team, which they were good at, because of all the muscles. The goggles they wore and the pickaxes shoved in their waistbands said that might not be all they hoped to do.

 Eggskin said, “No trace of anything biological,” and moved to stand beside the captain. The two Heatseekers were a healthy distance from the rock, clearly to give the Frillian twins plenty of pickaxing room. I thought I could see a bit of metal among the lumps, but it was hard to make out. The rock looked like several pieces had clumped together around it. I couldn’t say whether they were stuck with glue, welding, or just gravity and time. A smattering of gravel had already fallen to make the floor treacherous.

 Blip and Blop seemed aware of that, since they moved their feet by sliding instead of stepping. At Eggskin’s declaration, the captain nodded a go-ahead, and the Frillians grabbed their pickaxes.

 A voice from behind me complained, “I was going to watch…”

 I turned to see Zhee retreating back into the hallway, all gaudy purple exoskeleton and disapproval.

 He continued, “But I think I’ll wait out here.”

 I asked, “Do you think the chips are going to—” then the first pickaxe hit with a thunderous clang, and I hustled out to join him. Captain Sunlight and Eggskin had also backed up further. I was pretty sure one or both of them were saying words of caution, but I couldn’t make it out for sure.

 Zhee clicked his pincher arms and angled his antennae in disapproval. He probably had opinions about the best way to disassemble the chunk of rocks and nonsense. Zhee always had opinions.

 A concerned voice from down the hall asked, “What’s happening?”

 I called back, “Salvage.”

 Paint trotted up, her expression worried and her mottled orange scales less shiny than the captain’s. I’d definitely have to ask about the polishing sometime. Maybe.

 “What kind of salvage?” she asked.

 I told her, “Rocks and metal.”

 Zhee said, “Loud and messy.”

 Before Paint could press for details, the axe noises were replaced by a minor avalanche of rocks etcetera collapsing onto the cargo bay floor. The silence afterward made me rub my ears.

 Paint looked around the corner, then dart forward. Zhee and I followed.

 The pickaxes were already set down in favor of hands for picking through the mess. Blip and Blop pulled out something long and angular, each grabbing a different end and having a split-second tug of war like two puppies with the same stick. Then they held it up for the captain together.

 “Got it!”

 “Look at this!”

 We all looked. It was dented gray metal, long with a couple of joints, and with wires dangling out the bigger end. Straightened out, it would have been a little taller than the Frillians.

 I asked the obvious question. “What is it? Broken antenna?”

 Blip rotated it, peering at the wires, then the bent sections. “I don’t think so. These parts seem supposed to move.”

 “Yeah, and this end’s serrated!” Blop said, pointing at the narrow end. “It’s almost like…” He grabbed the last two segments and wrenched them together. The metal screeched. The serrations fit together perfectly, in a startling imitation of Zhee’s pincher arms.

 We all looked at him.

 Zhee hissed quietly and angled his antenna into extreme displeasure. “Keep breaking,” he said.

 “What? Why?” I asked.

 Zhee pointed a pincher. “It is old enough to be ugly. An embarrassment to Mesmers everywhere.”

 A few careful questions and one angry rant later, it became clear that this Mesmer at least was certain that every one of his species would be personally offended by the sight of this relic’s lack of vibrant colors and/or gemstone decorations.

 No, it hadn’t lost its decorations; there were no sockets for gems. No, it hadn’t lost its paint; there were no traces, and paint was only for utter peasants who couldn’t anodize metal.

 “Ask Trrili,” Zhee challenged. “She’s from a different moon entirely.”

 Captain Sunlight quietly called Trrili to the cargo bay to give her opinion on something unspecified. Trrili arrived in a storm of shiny black and blood-red, taller than Zhee and curious why she’d been summoned. She caught sight of the relic.

 “Throw that out the airlock immediately,” Trrili hissed.

 Zhee said, “I suggested they break it.”

 “That’s good too.”

 I said, “I can’t believe no Mesmer ever would want to keep this for historical value, if it’s as old as all that. It’s a ship’s grabber arm, right? It might have broken off in some historical battle or something! It could be incredibly important!”

 They said, “It’s not,” in perfect unison.

 Wio’s voice came over the loudspeaker from where she’d been watching on the cameras. “There’s a Mesmer colony not far from here. Public info says it’s relatively new, so not the one that lost that, but it would take some detailed math and a huge map to track how far it could have drifted in that many centuries anyway. It can’t hurt to ask them if they want it for a museum, right?”

 Zhee said that would be deeply embarrassing to even ask.

 Trrili wanted nothing to do with it.

 Captain Sunlight decided it was worth a shot.

 Both Mesmers stalked out of the cargo bay with loud declarations that they would be on the other side of the ship, and not to bother them until the shame was done with.

 The captain asked Blip and Blop to clean the thing up as best they could. Paint volunteered to help, and ran to get brushes.

 I asked permission to be in the cockpit during the phone call. Surely that opinion couldn’t be universal. Surely.

 Or, I learned soon after, maybe it could.

 “A what?” asked the local authority, a pink-and-blue Mesmer with glittering chips of crystal forming intricate whorls on her exoskeleton. “I don’t think I heard you correctly.”

 Captain Sunlight addressed the screen with dignity. “A historical artifact of Mesmer design. It appears to be a mechanical version of your glorious blade-arms, made of gray metal.”

 “That’s disappointing,” the authority said with a flick of both antennae. “Kindly throw it into the nearest sun.”

 I blurted, “What?”

 Captain Sunlight gave me a look, but didn’t say to be quiet. I took that as permission to keep talking.

 “But this is part of your history! A record of how you got where you are!”

 “Ah, a human,” the Mesmer said with a sigh. “Tell me, when your offspring commit an act of art for the first time, you are proud, yes? And so are they, for a while? You might even put it on display. But then they grow up and never want to see it again out of shame? This does not deserve a place on the fridge. Into the sun it goes.”

 Nothing I could say would sway that decision, not that Captain Sunlight let me try for long. She turned the conversation to business, and ended up convincing the Mesmer authority to pay us a small fee for the inconvenience of going out of our way. (We were on official courier business, after all, and time was money.) (Yes, people say that even in space. The Mesmer didn’t bat an antennae at it.)

 The final agreement also included an escort ship, partly to make sure we really did get rid of the thing, and partly to help us do so. It had a tractor beam thingy that could be set in reverse to punt things across the starfield. Very handy for launching artifacts into the sun. No, I didn’t ask what they normally used it for. That kind of tech could easily have been an accidental discovery, and I wasn’t about to bring up any other possible sources of cultural embarrassment.

 But I was going to quietly give my respects to the ancient bit of machinery before it was atomized. I stood in the cleaned-up cargo hold next to the unassuming piece of dull, dented metal. Crouching, I ran my fingers over it, committing the feel to memory: from the torn wires to the crooked serrations. A couple of those little teeth were bent. I’d never know what bent them.

 Loud conversation approached, and my crewmates entered the room, bustling around to prepare. I stepped back as the captain arrived, and I took up a position by the door. I had a good view of the airlock from there.

 As Blip and Blop in their exo suits hefted it to throw, as Wio angled the ship to get us in line with the escort, as Captain Sunlight gave the command and the relic was launched toward the distant sun, I silently gave my respects. I sent mental appreciation to the ages-ago Mesmers who had made it.

 Great job, you guys. You must have been SO proud. 

~~~

These are the ongoing backstory adventures of the main character from this book.

Shared early on Patreon! There’s even a free tier to get them on the same day as the rest of the world.

The sequel novel is in progress (and will include characters from these stories. I hadn’t thought all of them up when I wrote the first book, but they’re too much fun to leave out of the second).

[eshippro12345]

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[arc-misadventures]

What are those: wallow decided to go to beacon academy with winter to go see how wiess is doing but instead meet with jaune

The Dragon’s Diamond

A small bullhead flew through the air towards, Beacon Academy. It was a privately owned airship that belonged to the, Schnee Dust Company, and right now it was carrying an assortment of precious cargo: The daughter of the founder of the, SDC, Willow Schnee. Her eldest child, Winter Schnee. And a locked cased filled with diamonds of various sizes, and quality. At least what they assumed were diamonds. For they had come here to see if they were in fact real diamonds.

Winter: I’m sorry mother, but I must protest; Why did you have to come along to handle this simple endeavour; you could have simply handed over your, and my diamonds to, Klein, and let him handle it. Why did you have to come along?

Willow: I needed a vacation. This seemed like a reasonable excuse why to do so. Besides, it also gives me an excuse to be around my daughters. Is there something wrong with me desiring to be with my family my dear?

Winter: …

Winter: No, no there isn’t anything wrong with that, it’s just unexpected is all.

Willow: I understand, but being away from home also keeps me away from drinking. I’ve managed to at least reduce the amount I’ve been drinking substantially, but being around your father long enough will lead me back to drowning myself in the bottle again. I cannot allow that to happen.

Winter: I… I’m sorry, I thought you chose to leave for different reasons.

Willow: Like trying fine, Valian wines?

Winter: Ahh! Yes… Yes I thought so.

Willow: Well, depending on what, and where we’re having dinner I wouldn’t mind a suitable wine to go along with it, but I have to stop drinking. Not so much for myself, but for you, your sister, and your brother. I… I want to stay a part of your lives, to see you grow old, and start families of your own in the future. It would be a shame if I am to deny myself these opportunities because I drank myself to death…

Winter: Thank you, Mother. Hearing you say that means a lot to me. But, if you want to give up drinking, why are you looking forward to having wine with your meal?

Willow: I’m slowly weaning myself off drinking. Not everyone can just go cold turkey now can they?

Winter: I would prefer it if you did.

Willow: Well, it would probably be for the best if I did, but… Oh, we’re here, let’s continue this discussion later, and find your sister.

Winter: Very well then, Mother.

As the ship landed the mother, and daughter duo grabbed their luggage, and made their way towards the academy. As they neared closer to the tower, Willow couldn’t help, but take in the sights around her.

Willow: Oh my… Beacon Academy is such a lovely place.

Winter: Yes, the warm breeze, and vibrant greenery give this place such a relaxing air to it.

Willow: I know, Weiss went to, Beacon to escape father in, Atlas. But, do you suppose this rich atmosphere contributed to it?

Winter: I believe it was more so her desire to escape, Father. But, this is a nice benefit.

Willow: I hope she is feeling happy here.

Winter: Me too.

Willow: But, where do you believe she is?

Winter: I have no idea, there should be an information desk up front we can ask.

Willow: Or, I suppose we could ask him if he knows where, Weiss is.

Winter: Who?

As they drew closer to the, Academy they saw the statue out front, and a student sitting on the base of the statue. They noticed that he was seemingly mumbling to himself as he ran his hands through his golden hair as he evaded the white horns poking out.

Winter: A faunas?

Willow: Excuse me, young man?

: Hmm, what? Oh, hello.

Willow: Hello. I was wondering if you could help us.

: With what?

Winter: We’re looking for my sister, Weiss Schnee, do you perchance know her?

: Weiss Schnee? Yeah, I know her, we’re friends after all.

Willow: Excellent, can you please lead us to her?

: Sure I can… I can…?! Hurk?!

His hand quickly came up to cover his mouth, seemingly trying to repress a gag. His luck failed him as he continued to dry heave until a he opened his mouth, and a belch of fire erupted from his mouth before he fell into a small coughing fit as small jets of flame escaping his mouth with each cough. As soon as his coughing fit ended he popped a small white marble into his mouth, before turning to address the duo.

: Jacques you cheap bastard! (Cough!) Ahem, sorry about that, upset stomach. Hehe…

The duo looked at him in stunned shock, taking a moment for themselves to collect themselves. Willow seemingly able to keep her wits about her.

Willow: A-Are you okay?

: Yeah, I’m fine.

Winter: But, you just belched fire?

: That’s a semi-common occurrence.

Willow: But…?!

Winter: Wait, Mother… Male, blue eyes, blond hair, horns, and can breath fire… You’re the, Dragon King, Jaune Arc, aren’t you?

Jaune: That’s me, well mostly. I’m not a king of any sorts, but I am a dragon faunas. Anyway, my name is, Jaune Arc, nice to meet you.

Jaune offered his hand for the pair to shake as they introduced themselves in kind.

Willow: Willow, Willow Schnee, it’s a pleasure to meet you.

Winter: Specialist Winter Schnee.

Jaune: So you’re, Weiss’s family? That explained the smells.

Winter: Smells?

Jaune: I have a highly, highly acute sense of smell. I can smell familiarity’s between people, to the point I can tell if someone is related to another.

Winter: That sounds like an impressive ability.

Jaune: It has its downsides… Like my little sister trying to use me as a bloodhound…

Willow: You said you are friends with my daughter, Mr. Arc, can you lead us to her?

Jaune: Uhhh… No, no I can’t. She went into, Vale with the rest of her team just a little while ago.

Winter: She did, why?

Jaune: I don’t know; I left to ‘throw up,’ and when I came back she, and her teammates had disappeared. My sister said that they had made an emergency trip to, Vale, and that was all there was to it. Do you want me to call her, and let her know you’re here?

Winter: No… Well, maybe we should.

Willow: Oh dear… I was hoping to surprise her with our sudden visit.

Jaune: You can still do that if you want.

Willow: We can, how?

Jaune: Weiss, and her teams room is just down the hall from my teams room. You can wait there until she arrives.

Winter: What do you think mother?

Willow: We might as well, this young man has graciously offered us his place to us while we wait for your sister to return. We won’t be in there for a few hours at most.

Winter: Very well, we graciously accept your kind offer, Mr. Arc.

Jaune: My pleasure, and please, just call me, Jaune.

Winter: Very well then, Jaune.

Jaune: Even if you rejected my offer you’d no doubt be taken to my room anyway so I could inspect those diamonds, and any other gemstones of yours. If there are any that is…

Winter: What are you talking about?

Jaune: Two things: Those are, Fortress grade safe-boxes, made by the, Gem Refinery. To which I own, I know my merchandise. Especially the safe-boxes…

Willow: Wait, you’re the owner of the, Gem Refinery?

Jaune: Yes, I am. Second I over heard, Weiss… screaming to her father on how she wanted her entire families precious jewels so they can be appraised. And, who is that appraiser, me: Jaune Arc, the Lapidary Master!

Willow: You’re the, Lapidary Master?!

Jaune: Yep!

Willow: I don’t believe you. You’re just a teenager, and you’re supposedly the worlds most renowned fine cut gem grader?

Jaune: Oh, just you wait, and see darling! Now then, lets go look at some pretty stones!

~~~

Jaune: Hmmmm…?

Jaune hummed in speculation as he examined a rather large diamond on a gold ring with a jewellers magnifier. Willow looked on in a chair besides him, while, Winter look on from his bed as, Jaune worked.

Willow: That was the engagement ring my husband gave me, he said it is one caret diamond ring.

Willow: …

Willow: It is a diamond ring… Right?

Jaune looked at, Willow, back to the ring, and then back to her. Their eyes stayed locked for a moment before he threw it into his mouth, and a hard crunching sound soon followed this action.

Willow’s face fell into her hands as she groaned in disbelief at what she had just witnessed, again.

Willow didn’t believe, Jaune when he started sorting her diamonds into two piles, one labeled real, and labeled fake. The ‘fake’ pile had grown considerably larger then the ‘real’ pile to the point she doubted he was actually genuinely grading her diamonds, and was trying to steal them. To prove his innocence, he grabbed a sizeable real diamond, and bit it. The sound it made was akin to bitting a jaw breaker: hard, and solid, as if one smacked their head against a wall.

Jaune, then grabbed one he deemed a ‘fake’ and bit into it. The sound was like someone bit into a hard candy, and wanted to chew it up, instead of sucking on it; Loud, and crunchy.

He made this a habit whenever she doubted his expertise, as a master gemologist. A habit she had come to dread because of the details that followed with it.

Luckily that was the second to last diamonf he needed to inspect, and she knew for certain that the last one wasn’t fake.

Willow: At least tell me the ring was made of gold?

Jaune spat out the piece of metal next to the pile of fakes, she grimaced as she looked at him as he regretfully smiled at her.

Jaune: Well… Pyrite, isn’t called ‘fools gold’ for nothing… hehe…

Willow: Gods dammit… My husband bought me a fake engagement ring?! How cheap of a man is he?!

Winter: More so then we could possibly believe…

Jaune: I doubt he was in this case.

Winter: What do you mean?

Jaune: Well… From what I’ve been told your father is a greedy whore. Uhh?! N-No offence.

Winter: None taken.

Willow: Please, feel free to continue badmouthing my husband at your leisure.

Jaune: Okay? Anyway, your husband is a greedy whore, from what I’ve seen. And, from what, Weiss has said about him is that he doesn’t commit to anything that doesn’t have a shiny price tag attached to it. I think he acquired these gemstones as a future investment. Liquid assets as you would put it.

Winter: That sounds like something father would do, but why would he buy fakes? My father is a greedy bastard, and will do everything to save a chip. He wouldn’t buy fake diamonds, there’s no value in that.

Jaune: Maybe he didn’t know he was buying fakes?

Winter: You believe someone swindled him?

Willow: It is a logically sound idea when you think about it.

Jaune: I’m well aware of several infamous gem pedlars. Give me a list of your sellers, and I could identify who is a legit seller, and who is not. Because there are some real ones here, so maybe he bought the fakes from one person, and the real ones from another.

Willow: I believe they were all acquired from one person, at least the vast majority were.

Jaune: And, that person’s name is?

Willow: Cartiff… Cartiff… Oh, I forget his first name.

Jaune: …

Jaune: It wouldn’t happen to be, Quintin now would it…?

Willow: Quintin… Yes, Quintin Cartiff, that was his name. How did you know?

Jaune: Quintin… Quintin Cartiff…

Willow: J-Jaune? Is everything okay…

Jaune: Quintin CARTIFF!!!

Winter immediately jumped in front of her mother pulling her mother back. Her hand stayed on her blade as she saw a truly terrifying sight. Within the space of a blink the calm, and happy boy revealed a monster of fire, and ash. His head realed upwards as he scream his name in a bloody rage. Winter got to see first hand the hidden fang he hide behind that warm, and inviting smile of his. The way his mouth shut, terrified her knowing full well he could bite down into someone in mere seconds, and could easily pierce through aura, and flesh like it was tissue paper. She marvelled at the sight of blue flames erupting from clenched fangs. The reports she had seen about the dragon faunas were fragmented, and vague, but even those brief insights paled in reality at the sight before her.

The flames, erupting from, Jaune’s teeth slowly fettered out as a finally deep exhale escaped his lips, he shook his head as if trying to shake off some sort of ill feeling upon him. He leaned back in his chair to look at the mother, daughter duo as he gave them a nervous, and embarrassed smile as he awkwardly scratched the back of his head.

Jaune: Ah haha… Sorry about that… I didn’t expect hearing his name to set me off like that… Hehehe… Sorry…

Willow: It seems you are well acquainted with this individual?

Jaune: As well as I would like to be. The bastard is an infamous counterfeiter, specializing in fake jewels. Particularly diamonds. I met him years ago after I just started out my… passion for collecting precious gemstones. He sold me some nice diamonds the first few times, but then he came back again, and the ‘diamonds’ he brought were all fakes. He denied it of course. Then I ate his ‘diamonds’ to prove to him that they were all fakes.

Willow: Oh, so eating fake diamonds is not a recent habit you’ve developed. I thought it was just for show.

Jaune: Well, yeah it kinda is. I mean what better way to prove if a diamond is a fake?

Winter: Do you often eat precious stones?

Jaune: No, I tend to eat, Dust more so then cubic zirconia, and the like. That’s why I was belching fire earlier, Weiss fead me some, SDC Dust that made me sick to my stomach. Jacques is such a cheap bastard…

Winter: Wait, you eat, Dust?!

Willow: And, what does my husband have to do with that?

Jaune: Okay, one box left to examine!

Jaune simply ignored the ladies questions as he took out the last box. It was a seven inch cube box covered in various locking mechanisms that, Jaune was quite intrigued on opening it himself. But, in the pursuit of time he just handed it over to, Willow who opened it herself. And, upon it’s opening, Jaune beheld a beautiful sight. The one diamond he had been hoping to see for ages.

The famous, Schnee Diamond.

The diamond was cut into an orb with a with a three diameter, roughly making it the same size as your average baseball. It shimmered, and sparkled like a star under the light of his desk lamp. He extended the talons on his hand as he picked it up, and inspected this prized jewel. Turning it over as he marvelled in its beauty.

Willow: …?

Willow: Do you like it, Mr. Arc?

Jaune: …

Willow: Do you like it, Jaune?

Jaune: …

Willow: Jaune!

Jaune: Huw? Oh yeah, It is such a marvellous diamond… I’ve been dreaming of seeing it, holding it within my hands to marvel in its splendour since I first saw photos of it, and I must say those photos do it no justice in its magnificent.

Winter: Are you sure it’s real?

Winter cheekily remarked as, Jaune was lost in the beauty of the diamond in his taloned fingers. Her smile fell as she heard the most beautiful ringing sound she had ever heard as he tapped the diamond with his talon before turning to face her.

Jaune: Hear that? Humans can’t here this sound, most faunas can’t hear it either, but I can. Most diamonds are too small to make this an audible sound for most people to hear it. But, this diamond is big enough for anyone to hear it singing. Only a real diamond can make such beautiful sounds.

Willow: It is such a beautiful sound, I had no idea such sounds can come from a diamond.

Jaune: Only a few bare such elegance… Oh I wish I could have this diamond for myself… But alas, I doubt your open to selling it. Are you…?

Willow: If I was… Hypothetically speaking, how much would it be…?!

Jaune: Three billion Lien.

The duo looked at him astonished at the thought that, that diamond was worth, Three Billion Lein. The sense of unquestionable authority as he stated this didn’t make them question the possibility that he was gaslighting them so he could get it for a fraction of the price.

Willow: Oh my… I… I did not expect that…

Jaune: Didn’t you have it graded before?

Willow: Decades ago, and back then it was nearly a billion lien. But, to imagine the price has gone up that much… it’s unbelievable…

Jaune: It would be the worlds most valuable diamond, but that title was taken away from it a few years back.

Winter: Oh really? What took it’s place?

Jaune: This…

As if appearing from thin air, Jaune held out before the duo a diamond; A diamond cut into a sphere with a diameter of five inches across. Winter’s breath was stolen away as, Willow at the beauty presented before her. She carefully took it from him, fearing the validity of the rumours that he would gut her if she touched it. But, it appeared as if he was offering it to her to hold, so she took it.

She was amazed by its hefty weight, as she saw the light sparkle across it surface. She was amazed when her father showed her the, Schnee diamond, but the splendour of this diamond put it to shame so thoroughly she couldn’t find it in herself to complain about it in the slightest.

Willow: The Translucent Apple… Oh she is absolutely gorgeous~!

Winter: You’re the owner of the world’s largest diamond…?! That makes sense because you’re such a gemstone lover… But wait, where did you pull that out from? Do you just keep it hidden on your person at all times.

Jaune: Not in the shower.

Winter: What?!

Willow: It is truly a marvellous diamond. It was an honour to hold it. Winter, do you perhaps?

Winter: Nnnno, no I wouldn’t. If our family’s diamond is worth three billion, it terrifies me to hold something worth…

Jaune: Five billion Lien.

Winter: Five billion Lien… Wait, what really?!

Jaune: I am not considered one of the richest men in the world for nothing.

Winter: Five billion… And, he just has that up his coats sleeves?!

Willow: Well, it was a pleasure, despite the sheer disappointment of it all, no fault upon you, Jaune. I thank you for grading our families diamonds, and other precious stones.

Jaune: My pleasure… If you want, I can set you up with a jeweller from my company. I can confirm whole heartedly their validity as the genuine article.

Willow: I would appreciate that very much. But, there is something I would like to ask you…

Jaune: That being?

Willow: I heard you were offered gemstones as a dowery of sorts… Does that offer still stand?

Jaune’s burning focus of ingraining the beauty of the, Schnee Diamond upon his mind had finally been broken. Not even offering up the, Translucent Apple for, Willow to marvel at had broken his singular concentration of the diamond within his talon fingers. But, that one question broke him from his stupor like a gunshot to the heart. For he knew all to well what the dowery for this proposal would be.

Jaune: A-Are you offering me this diamond for your daughters hand…?

Willow: Indeed I am.

Winter: Mother no!

Winter exclaimed in shock as she looked at her mother as if she had lost her sanity. And, worry as, Jaune eyed the diamond with a new burning intensity trapped deep within the very depths of his soul.

Jaune: This… This is a priceless family heirloom, you wouldn’t simply give it away for me to accept, Weiss’s hand in marriage would you?

Willow: The diamond would still be in the hands of a, Schnee if you married my daughter, so it wouldn’t be lost. And, I never said anything about you marrying, Weiss now did I?

Willow looked to her eldest child with a smile as, Winter’s voice failed her. She was dumbfounded that this conversation had taken such a drastic turn. Was her mother seriously offering up the family’s prized heirloom for her hand in marriage?!

It was unthinkable. That her mother would do this to her on seemingly a whim. It scared her. But, what truly terrified her was the deafening silence that followed as, Jaune looked between her, and the diamond.

At her, and the diamond.

At her, and the diamond.

At her, and the diamond.

And, then at her, and only her.

Winter gulped in fear at the sudden turn her life was about to make.