Saviors of Remnant: Book 1 Beginnings
Made possible by the joint efforts of Keeper Of The One Winged Angel and TheBoredBoot
AN: Hey everyone TheBoredBoot here bringing another chapter to you patient readers. As usual we couldn't have completed this without our trusted Beta OS Worldmakers, a big thank you and shout out to that swell guy. As usual RWBY and it's characters are owned by Rooster Teeth besides the several OC characters created by my partner and I. I hope you guys continue to enjoy and follow our story, and we'll continue to do our best writing more chapters.
Enjoy
Chapter 3
Beneath the Atlas HQ in the interrogation chamber
Lore Black stood over an unconscious Fenrir once again. His annoyance that he had pushed the Faunus too far and rendered his plaything unconscious was finally starting to get to him.
So he roughly grabbed the unconscious young Faunus and hoisted his limp form up into the air.
"Alright you little shit! It's time to wake up again," Lore snarled, shaking Fenrir awake before slamming him back into the old metal chair that sat in the middle of the room. The young Faunus awoke with a shout of pain as Lore hissed, "I have more questions that I'd like you to answer, so it would be in your best interest to cooperate with me. Now where is the location of the main White Fang forces? That includes the masterminds behind the attack on Vale and Beacon Academy."
Fenrir, bleeding from his cut lip, struggled to sit up only to receive another heavy cuff across the face that knocked him out of the chair. The pain of almost nonstop torture since Lore had arrived that morning, combined with the mental exhaustion of recents events made him just want to cry and give up. "No," he thought angrily to himself glaring back at his tormentor from the ground. "If I give in now, everything I've been through will have been for nothing. I can't give in. I won't give in."
Lore, seeing the defiance in Fenrir's eyes, smiled evilly, his eyes almost lightning up as he triggered his semblance again. He watched the boy attempt to breath, only for the Faunus to find that there was nothing to fill his lungs with. The panic on his face drew a hearty laugh out of Lore who then said, "Well at least you have a little more fight in you. I was afraid I'd get bored with you, but now I need answers, so the kiddy gloves are coming off."
Fenrir, still panicking from being unable to breath, felt a sense unparalleled fear as he watched Lore reach behind him, off a table he had no idea was there. Lore was holding a strange looking instrument that at first he thought was just a dagger, but with a closer look was more of a sort of cattle prod. There was a click and the device in Lore's hand began to hum and the needle like apertures on it began to glow red.
"Now this is where the fun really begins for me, you White Fang dog."
At the same time outside the Schnee Manor
Morven Kenrich walked to the large wrought iron gate before the Schnee manor. He approached the intercom and pressed the button.
A cheerful voice came back. "Ahhh. Hello again, Master Morven. The gate is now open and you are expected inside by Miss Schnee's ." The gate opened silently beside him. Looking up into where he knew the security camera was, Morven asked, "Wait, Klein. Why does Willow wish to speak with me?"
Morven heard Klein laugh merrily through the intercom before replying, "Oh she's not the one I meant who's as excited to see you. Now come inside, and you will find everyone is in the front grand hall right now awaiting your arrival, including Mr. Schnee. Who has a favor to ask of you."
"Hmmm... Jacque want to speak with me as well. I wonder what he needs from me," Morven thought to himself as he moved towards the front door, his hand barely grazing the knob when the door burst open and he was tackled to the ground by a white blur.
"Morven! It's so good to see you again!" Weiss cried out, hugging Morven around the waist as she sat atop him. "It's been far too long since we've seen each other! Well... since you didn't come to the Vytal festival..." Weiss said, her voice taking an accusing tone as she looked up at him.
"It's certainly good to see you to Weiss. I'm sorry I wasn't able to come see your fight and visit you in person, but I did catch the end of it. That was a gutsy move, taking Flynn down into that vent, though a shame it didn't work," Morven said, with a smile climbing back to his feet before bringing the young heiress into another hug.
"Ahh, Morven. It's good to see you're back," a man's voice said grabbing his attention. Releasing Weiss and turning around, Morven smiled as he shook Jacques's hand, saying, "It's good to see you too and thank you again Mr. Schnee, for your hospitality."
"Nonsense Morven," Jacque said clapping Morven on the back, a feat for him since Morven was a good couple inches taller. "You know we don't need the formalities, Morven. After all, we are all hoping that we can do more then just consider you family soon enough."
Hearing this, Winter's face suddenly went beet red, while Weiss just smirked at her sister, the youngest of the Schnee's, Whitely just rolled his eyes at this and gave Morven a half hearted, "Welcome back, Morven," to which Morven replied, "Hello Whitely. You've certainly gotten taller since I last saw you."
Yang stood a little awkwardly during all this beside Klein, who gave her a friendly smile. "In case you were wondering Ms. Xiao-long," he explained as he noted the confusion on her face, "the Kenrich family has been a friend and partner to the Schnee's since the before the first Great War. Due to complications of male heirs in the past, there hasn't been a chance for the two families to join via a marriage between heirs, but since Winter's youth and her spending so much time with Morven when they were younger, it was a hope that with them both being the heirs to their families legacy that the Kenrich and the Schnee families would become one."
"It was a hope," Yang asked looking from Klein back to Morven and Winter, despite him being in a conversation with them all Yang could see that he only had eyes for Winter. Pausing for a second she then asked, "so what happened that the families didn't join together?"
"Because both of them declined inheriting their family businesses, they gave up the title of heir which thus now falls to their siblings, although…" Klein met Yang's violet eyes with now green eyes as he said in a low voice, "everyone still wishes to see the two of them married, myself included."
"Hmmm I see," Yang muttered quietly to herself looking at the gathered people, Morven now kissing Ms. Schnee's hand as she greeted him, her cheeks flushing red just like her eldest daughter as she giggled, "Winter is certainly lucky to have someone like him always there for her, don't you think?"
Klein gave Yang a smile and replied, "oh I believe that there is someone like that for everyone. When I was young and I asked my father about love he told me this, he said son. True love is the soul's recognition of its counterpart in another, the acceptance that fate brought the two together."
Yang pondered this looking back at the Morven and the Schnee's before letting a small smile cross her face, "Klein has the right idea I guess," she thought to herself moving over to Morven to get his attention, "I just wonder who fate has in store for me."
Feeling a tug on his sleeve Morven turned around and found to his surprise that it was Yang who was trying to get his attention. "What can I help you with Yang," he asked flashing her a friendly smile excusing himself from his conversation and taking her to the side to listen.
"Hey Morven, back when we were on the ship arriving here that woman Eve said there was something we could do to my arm to make it less noticeable, she mentioned that the lab at headquarters would do it if you took me," Yang explained unconsciously brushing her prosthetic.
"Hmmm I see," Morven said quietly himself looking Yang over before returning his gazed back to her eyes. "Well I was just coming to check up on how you were being accommodated here before I went home to see my family, but tomorrow when I head to the facility for acclimating my lightning resistance further, I'll be sure to drop you off at the medical department for the procedure if you are absolutely sure that that is what you want."
"That sounds like a plan Morven, 6 o'clock on the dot you'll come get me?" Yang cracked returning his smile making Morven chuckle in response. "Yes Yang, I'm glad to see you've caught on quickly that we operate pretty early around here, but don't worry. We get time off to relax every now and then, so just roll with the punches and everything will go smoothly, after all you have my word Yang that as long as you're on a team with me I will do everything in my power to keep you safe, the same as anyone else on my team."
Yang taken back by his declaration blushed slightly and began fidgeting under his gaze before muttering a quiet thank you, giving Morven a nod of understanding. "So now what are you going to do now that you've checked up on me? Are you going to see how that Fen is doing," Yang asked watching for any sort of reaction from him.
Morven pursed his lips and thought for a moment before replying, "well I was told he was to be questioned before his trial tomorrow, so before my acclimation training and dropping you off, I'll go and prepare him for his trial. Speaking of his trial Yang I was meaning to ask you, would you like to attend? Just mainly as a formality of course seeing as such that if my request is approved the two of you will be working together."
"Wait what?" Yang asked looking perplexed before remembering the conversation she overheard, something about Morven wanting to make a team to help deal with the increase in the White Fang and the Grimm.
"I'm sure you may have picked up on it Yang, but I want to form a team," Morven pressed on continuing to stare at her. "It's a special team that hopefully can help deal with the rising crisis across Remnant, I know you were still on the fence about it so I hope that knowing I want him on the team as well won't completely change your mind, I mean from what I've seen on record, and from what you've told me. This wouldn't be the first time that you've been on a team with a ex member of the White Fang."
Hearing this, Yang suddenly tensed up and pursed her lips, before she could stop herself she muttered coldly, "wow look at you, Mr. know-it-all. I'd actually appreciate it if you weren't digging into my life so much, it's making me a little uncomfortable. After all I don't know that much about you yet some how convinced myself to come along with you. Sigh… I just am still trying to wrap my head around everything that's happened, you know I was kind of hoping to have a fairly calm time at Beacon with my sister. Calm meaning not fighting terrorists and almost getting involved in a war," Yang said taking a deep breath and sighing.
"I see," Morven replied giving Yang a nod of understanding, "I'm sorry if I made you uncomfortable Yang, I'll try and keep that in mind for future reference." Hearing his name called again Morven gave Yang another friendly smile and returned to his conversation with the gathered Schnee's.
Going back to watching everyone else talk Yang realized that Weiss had broke away from everyone else and was beside her, a nervous look on her face as she asked, "so how's your arm Yang? I didn't want to be rude and immediately ask about it but I'm really curious about it."
Blushing slightly out of embarrassment Yang held out her arm and watched as Weiss nervously reached out and touched the prosthetic, the almost silent sound of the interior mechanics humming as Yang moved, drawing a impressed gasp from Weiss as she admired the fine craftsmanship of the arm. "This is definitely some impressive Atlas technology," Weiss said awestruck by how close to her regular arm the prosthetic was, "does it feel any different from your actual arm or can you not even tell anymore Yang?"
Yang looked down at the arm and bit her lip before replying, "it's weird to say but I think I'm still experiencing that ghost sensation of my old arm Weiss, I can't feel you touching my arm or anything but there is some sort of sensation that I can't put into words right now. I do however want to cover it up that way I don't get so much attention, I don't want this arm to be the reason people look at me."
Weiss gave Yang a grin and gently bopped her on the arm chuckling, "trust me Yang, the arm might get you some looks but you have other reasons for guys to stare at you." Her tone at this bordering disapproval and amusement as Yang laughed quietly at this. Hearing the conversation begin to wrap up between the Schnee's and Morven Yang and Weiss rejoined the conversation and bid Morven goodbye, as he prepared to leave rushing in to give Morven one last hug Yang watched as Weiss gestured Morven to come down a bit and whispered in his ear for a second before releasing him.
"Hmm alright fine Weiss I promise, although you might have to get in line when we get around to that since there's some new blood for me to test as well," Morven said giving Yang a knowing nod. "I'm calling it a night but tomorrow, you know the time I'll be by to pick you up and we can start this glorious adventure."
"But Morven wouldn't you like to stay for dinner," "yes you and Winter just returned for the first time in months," Mr. and Ms. Schnee said seeing Morven prepare to leave. "We'd love to hear more of your harrowing adventures, something to lighten the mood considering the dark times that have befallen us."
"I honestly would love too and I thank you for the offer, but my family would like to see me as well and after the flight back I need a little time to unwind, I'll need it since I'll be defending a young man at his trial tomorrow so I'll need to be mentally prepared for that." Flashing everyone a smile Morven bid his final goodbyes and left heading home, his relief for finally being able to see his family only dulled slightly by the fact he had an uneasy feeling about Fenrir's treatment.
"I have a bit to do tonight Fen," he said quietly to himself getting into the back of the town-car signaling the driver he was ready, "tomorrow though is the big day, so I hope your ready. This'll be the start of hopefully the right path for you."
Early the Next Day
"You know I'm somewhat impressed you've held it somewhat together for this long Mr. Argyros," Lore chuckled pulling Fenrir by his hair, smiling evilly before throwing a low punch into the young Faunus's stomach, the force of it causing him to cry out and drop out of the chair. "Are you finally going to tell me what we want to know or are you going to continue just cry there like a lost pup," the enjoyment in his voice sending another fearful shiver down Fenrir's spine.
Choking back tears of pain and exhaustion Fenrir looked down at the ground avoiding Lores eyes. "I already told you everything I know, It's not like I was one of the White Fang leaders," he whimpered flinching as he heard his torturer reach for something before stammering, "at most I was just a raid Lieutenant during some of our battles, I swear I don't know anything else."
A dark smile came across Lores face, setting down the tool he picked up he suddenly reached down again and wrapped a large hand around Fenrir's throat hoisting him to his feet, the hatred in his eyes intensifying as he shouted, "well fuck! If you're not going to be of any help then what's the point of keeping you alive then!" Throwing Fenrir into the wall he began kicking Faunus viciously drawing another cry of pain from the curled up boy.
"Just kill me already then, I just want it too end," Fenrir thought as he held back tears not wanting to give this man the satisfaction of hearing him beg, he turned his head to the man giving him a unconvincing glare remembering his reason for joining the White Fang. Choking out, "you damn humans. If you wonder why the Faunus hate you this is the reason why, you are more monstrous than the Grimm."
Lore seemed taken aback at this comment and stopped kicking Fenrir, his eyes flashing dangerously again. "I'm monstrous? Oh you stupid stupid animal!" He resumed kicking Fenrir with renewed vigor as he shouted, "I'm not a monster I'm human! You damn beasts walking around amongst us like you're people make me sick, you're disgusting kind wanting to be treated like equals when you're nothing more than sub-human trash! Your kind is meant for nothing more than to serve us!"
Fenrir looked up in horror as Lore took out a large machete with edges that looked like it tasted blood more than once, out of fear he tail went in between his legs as he thought fearfully. "Dammit this isn't how it was supposed to be, I'm supposed to have my whole life ahead of me but now I'll be dead soon." Looking up at the monster in front of him with oddly enough the thought that came to mind was, "Morven I wish we had met under better circumstances, who knows maybe we could have been friends and for what it's worth thanks for treating me like a person instead of a freak, same goes to you blondie."
Closing his eyes Fenrir flinched at the sound of the blade coming down when a familiar voice suddenly shouted, "Lore! What the hell do you think you are doing!"
Fenrir looked just in time to see a throwing knife flash across the room. Lore gave an angry grunt as he dropped his machete, his look of hatred now directed at Morven who cooly gazed back at him with those strange brown and gold flecked eyes of his.
"When you were instructed to question the prisoner, at any point in time were you authorized to take such drastic steps like torture and draining his aura?" The disgust in Morven's voice directed at Lore shocked Fenrir as he spotted behind Morven, outside the door the blonde haired boxer from before. From the expression on her face, she was just as shocked to hear Morven upset.
"I was instructed, Morven," Lore spat his name out like an insult, "to get the information out of him, and because he wasn't being cooperative I was forced to take more drastic means of questioning, not that you would understand."
"Are you saying he wasn't cooperating, or are you really just lying and saying that because he gave us all he knows and you just want to hurt him," Morven's voice taking a more sympathetic tone as he looked at Fenrir noticing extensive damage to the young Faunus legs. Kneeling down beside Fenrir Morven laid a consoling hand on his shoulder and said quietly, "I'm sorry Fenrir about this, if I had had even the slightest idea this would happen I would've volunteered to oversee your questioning myself, you did nothing to deserve this and I hope you can forgive me."
Fenrir got to his knees shakily before whimpering, "why don't you tell him how he used his semblance on me to cut off my air or how to him my kind are nothing more than trash that were born to be slaves, bet he didn't bother to bring that up." Looking at Morven with his blood red eyes filled with hope that this man would believe him.
"Why you little shit!" Lore roared snatching up his machete from the ground before lunging at Fenrir swinging. "Now your gonna die!"
Fenrir looked in terror as Lore bore down on him, the massive man one again striking fear into his heart when for the second time a white trench coat moved between him and his attacker.
"That's enough Lore," Morven growled angrily striking the interrogators wrist with a open palm disarming him before grappling the larger man to the ground, "as a senior Specialist I'm placing you under arrest for gross misconduct of a prisoner, illegal interrogation as per the housefall act, and assault of a fellow member of the Atlas workforce."
"Assault of a fellow member? What the hell are you talking about you damn Faunus lover!" Lore roared again struggling at first but then wincing as Morven applied pressure to the arm pinned behind his back.
"Yang can you come here please?" Morven asked ignoring the man he had in a armbar, "it appears that Mr. Argyros is currently unable to walk without assistance right now, if you could do me the favor of helping him I'd appreciate it. I'll deal with Lore so just take him to the medical wing I showed you earlier so we can have him taken care of."
"Umm alright," Yang said nervously stepping around Morven and Lore moving to Fenrir, "are you alright Fen?" she asked helping him get to feet catching him as he fell to his knees, her eyes widening as she gasped seeing the damage to his legs."
"What is it that bad blondie," Fen choked out wincing as he tried to support his weight with his legs before he cried out, "fuck!" Nearly falling face first if it wasn't for Yang who supported him, the concern in her eyes surprising him as she asked him if he was alright again, to which he responded, "to be honest not really, but with you here it's starting to look better already though."
Throwing one of Fenrir's arms over her shoulder Yang turned to Morven and said, "don't worry I'll take him to the medical bay so Eve can fix him up," before walking out of the interrogation room leavening Morven alone with Lore.
Waiting till Yang and Fenrir left Morven turned his gaze to the man he had pinned down, the anger on his normally expressionless face sending a shiver down Lores spine as he turned his head to meet the Specialists eyes. "Alright Lore time to take you in, you have a lot of explaining to do to the General."
Making their way to the med bay Yang continued to support Fenrir, her mind racing once again as she processed the recent events which just unfolded thinking to herself, "I don't understand any of this, sure he was member of the White Fang but did they have to be this rough on him, I mean Morven looked pretty pissed finding our little wolf friend in that condition, which is even more surprising considering that he's supposed to be a prisoner." Sighing to herself she pressed on ignoring the strange looks she was getting from other Atlas workers who were walking around.
Coming to one of the open reception areas Yang froze finding herself and Fen caught under the gaze of one of the many Atlas soldiers on guard, his polished helmet and faceplate gleaming as he approached them with his rifle.
"Halt right there," he said in a commanding tone forcing Yang to stop and look at him. "Where are you taking him?" The guard asked gesturing to the barely conscious Faunus she was supporting, his tone becoming increasingly suspicious, "he looks pretty injured blondie, what happened to him?"
"Well you see…" Yang stammered suddenly realizing she didn't really know what to say, her eyes darting about for someone to help her when they met another familiar set of red eyes. Her heart bursting with relief as she answered rather loudly, "I was actually ordered by Specialist Morven Kenrich to take this young man to Medical Officer Eve, he requires treatment."
Hearing her name and having already spotted Yang, Eve put two and two together and approached them waving away the guard saying, "alright now Mr. you stop harassing these youngsters, as you can see this one has been through quite the ordeal so I need to take care of him right away." Her red eyes looking somewhat sad as she looked at Fenrir's condition, gesturing for Yang to follow her she led them to what at first Yang thought was just a med bay.
Walking in a closer inspection showed there was another large room connected by a door, with an observation window built between the two Yang concluded that it was for some sort of of testing or training room, but for what she had no idea.
"Yang can you be a dear and place your friend on the table by the monitor, we need to remove his coat, shoes and pants before we place him in the tank," Eve said gently getting Yang's attention again, her hands dancing across the keyboard as she entered in the specifics of Fenrir's injuries.
After processing what the older women said Yang's face turned the color of her sister cape. It was no secret that she was a flirt during her time in Signal, but she never went any further then just teasing them. Still as she looked at the young Faunus on the table Yang couldn't help but blush at what she was asked to do, putting aside her embarrassment for the moment she helped the struggling Fenrir remove his shirt, while this happened her eyes were drawn to a good sized claw mark located in the center of his chest. "So it seems like he's had his fair share of trouble with the Grimm as well," Yang thought, her eyes turning serious. "This makes me wonder why did he join the White Fang, because so far he is completely different from the other members we've encountered in Vale, in fact he almost reminds me of Blake."
"You know it's rude to stare at someone who is half naked Blondie, especially when said person is sore as hell," Fen said in an exhausted tone as he blushed slightly, the sight of Yang staring at him causing him to feel slightly embarrassed.
"Oh don't be a baby Mr Argyros." Eve chuckled snapping Fenrir attention back to her as she finished typing, "now take off your shoes and pants before climbing into the tank alright, and don't be worried this is just a biotic aura tank to help speed along your recovery, after all you have business to attend to later today isn't that right," Eve said locking her red eyes onto his own.
His face flushing even more, Fenrir gave Eve an embarrassed nod before complying, his tail poofing up in surprise when the tank hissed open awaiting him.
"Yang help him into the tank please that way we can begin," Eve said before answering her scroll that had started ringing. "This is Eve. Oh there you are Morven, yes Fenrir and Yang found me and we are about to start Fenrir's treatment." Eve's face suddenly took on a hard expression as she continued to listen to Morven, nodding quietly.
Yang watched Eve for a second before turning back to Fenrir, "ready to get fixed up little wolf," she said with a smirk as she placed her hand around his shoulder and helped him inside the tank.
Fenrir rolled his eyes at this and begrudgingly accepted her help into the tank, his eyes narrowing slightly, "oh very funny Blondie I bet you're a real hit at the club's," he said sarcastically hiding the thoughts that were running through his mind. Before he could voice anything important Eve called over to him saying, "you're very lucky Mr Argyros, had Lore kept using his semblance on you, you could've ended some crushed lungs or maybe even worse."
Yang gave the Faunus a sympathetic look before turning her attention towards Eve asking, "what do you mean Eve? How bad did the pup get hurt?" sitting down on a nearby chair beside the tank while not talking her gaze off the doctor.
"Well you see dear Lore semblance creates in a small area a airless vacuum, meaning he can choke someone without lifting a finger, this explains why he was assigned as the interrogator, although his methods can be quite extreme they get results. I'm just glad that the young lad is okay, you see Yang not many people in atlas care for the well being of the faunus so they end up treated like workers most of the time," Eve explained with a hint of sadness in her voice.
Fenrir listened to Eve and Yang talk a bit while the tank began to fill with a warm green tinted goo, the feeling of it numbing his body as the level rose. Putting on his respirator mask Fen closed his eyes as the liquid rose over his head and his thoughts once again drifted to the man that saved his life.
"Why would a Atlas Specialist would risk his job as well as reputation to help a Faunus like me, nevermind the fact that I was in the Fang." Pushing those thoughts aside Fen then asked, "so what's going to happen to that douchebag now, I may have been half dead but I remember Morven being extremely pissed off so I hope they lock his ass up for almost killing me!"
Eve nodded at this and replied, "yes Lore will be facing some severe consequences after what he's done, not only torturing you but being foolish enough to attack Morven, what was that fool thinking? Don't worry Fenrir Lore is to be incarcerated and tried for what he's done so you can rest easy."
Fenrir only nodded hoping the interrogator got what he deserved but had doubts that it would happen. Remembering the way Faunus have been treated all over Remnant he only suspected that they were no better, if not treated worse in Atlas. Pushing those thoughts aside for the moment he relaxed as the tank began to heal his injuries.
"Alright Yang," Eve said turning her attention back to blonde," I have a technician on the way to help with the grafting of your arm so just take a seat and be patient for a moment ok."
"Yea no problem," Yang said turning towards the medical bed located on the opposite side of the tank, but as she made her way towards the bed she began to think of something, "I'm glad that my arm will be somewhat hidden but I have to remember that my real arm is gone and nothing is ever going to change that, maybe Morven could help me get stronger so I can help Ruby and figure out why Blake ran away, I know that horned bastard is somehow linked to it."
The door to the room opened suddenly snapping Yang out of her thoughts as a handsome young man came striding in, "Eve," he said in a friendly tone smiling at the old woman, "I came as fast as I could when you said I was needed to help install a arm augment for a class-3 prosthetic." The young man then froze looking at Yang in surprise, a blush building up in his cheeks as he said in a surprised tone. "Whoa no way, are your Yang Xiao-Long a huntress from Beacon Academy?"
Yang looked at the young man a bit surprised by his outburst nodded her head in confirmation, "That's me although it's more huntress in training, but if you don't mind me asking how do you know my name, I haven't met any other Atlas locals other than Morven, Winter and Eve."
"Oh geez sorry about that," he said blushing a little harder, "my names Ernest Cobalt and I only know your name from watching the Vytal Festival. I gotta say your duo fight with Weiss Schnee was incredible, I was rooting for you the whole time," he said eagerly causing Yang to Blush and play with her hair.
"Thanks it's nice to know that I have people from other kingdoms cheering me on," Yang said coyly blushing at him, her eyes slowly taking him in. He was very handsome she had to admit, the blue of his eyes matching his name, while his neat and tidy appearance and swept back black hair matched his profession.
Back in the tank Fenrir was able to hear every word and couldn't help feel a twinge of jealousy. "I don't get it why am feeling like this?" Opening his eyes to see the two talking, "I've barely gotten to know her so why do I care who she talks to, it's not like she's into me anyway. Man I sure wish mom was here, she'd know what to do in this situation," the young Faunus felt a sting in his heart as he thought of his mother, the expression of sadness on his face noticed by Eve.
"Well anyway Yang," Ernest said giving her a smile, "how about I take a look at that arm of yours, I was told you wanted to have a skin graft placed over the metal that way it doesn't draw any attention?" His question causing Yang to pause.
"How long will it take?" Yang said holding onto her arm tightly while avoiding the young man's gaze as if embarrassed, "don't get the wrong idea it's not that I don't trust you, it's just that after the fall of Beacon I've had a hard time dealing with a lot of things, especially if they have to do with my arm."
"The preparation for the graft won't take too long," Ernest said flashing Yang a reassuring smile," It's just that afterwards it'll at least an hour and a half for the graft to set. After that though you'll barely be able to tell unless you already knew of the procedure. Speaking of which, are we ready to get started Eve?"
"That we are Ernest," Eve said, her smile calming Yang's nerves as she laid back down on the table taking a deep breath. Moving beside Ernest, Eve took a strange box like device with a handle and a screen from the table and moved it across Yang's good arm, before moving it over the metal one.
"Hey is she going to be okay? I may not the smartest Faunus in the world but I know when someone is uncomfortable." Fenrir said politely looking at Eve, stealing a glance at Yang spotting the worried expression on her face.
"What the…" Ernest said loudly looking in surprise at the Faunus in the tank, caught completely off guard by him talking. "Where did that guy come from? Has he been in there this whole time? I had no idea."
"Wow pretty boy you just now noticed me, how the hell could you miss this big ass tank in the room or were you just too distracted flirting with blondie to even notice me," FenrIr said sarcastically, looking at the man with a smirk on his face while feeling some of his strength returning to him and noticing the annoyed look on Yang's face.
Ernest returned his smirk and chuckled, "wow your pretty aggressive there poochie although I have no idea why since we've never met, and can you honestly blame me for being distracted by this blonde beauty right here, I mean come on." He shot Yang a wink which she rolled her eyes too trying to hide her blush again before he continued, "as for this hurting she doesn't have to worry at all, this is going to be like a super fancy paintjob for the arm and that's it."
"And with that being said how about we get started on setting hers up now," Eve chipped in putting the device down and gesturing to Ernest, "please input her specs into the processor and we can get started on waiting for the graft to be done." Turning to Yang sme smiled before adding, "Yang deary don't worry, at most you will feel a slight numbing sensation where the seam meets the arm so you'll be fine."
"That's nice to hear I was honestly a little worried about this being painful," Yang said giving a sigh of relief before flinching at the touch of cold metal, a quiet little shriek escaping her lips making Ernest chuckle and her blush again.
"I'm sorry Yang I probably should've also told you that you'll be feeling some cold metal too," Ernest said shrugging sheepishly, "oops my bad beautiful, I'll make sure next time to warm it up for you."
Yang couldn't help but laugh at this as she met his cobalt blue eyes, as he finished entering a series of commands into his scroll the device around her arm began to hum quietly and a green glow could be seen coming from the edges, puzzled at the lack of complexity she turned and asked, "so how does this work exactly Ernest? I mean you scanned my good arm and now my new one is in this box for…?" She left it as an opened ended question.
"Well you see by scanning your good arm we can now make the pigmentation for your prosthetic match," Ernest explained pulling up a chair besides Yang, his eyes for once not on her, but on the red eyed Faunus eyeballing him from the tank. He had now noticed that the Faunus had been glaring at him, and honestly it was starting to get annoying. Opening his mouth Ernest muttered loudly, "you know if you want to stare I suggest you take a picture, it'll last longer."
"Hey, why don't you…" Fen started angrily when he was interrupted by the sound of someone clearing their throat. Turning his head he spotted Morven shaking his head giving him a exasperated look from the doorway before entering the room.
"Cmon you're killing me Mr. Argyros," Morven said calmly moving beside the tank, his strange gold flecked eyes silencing the Faunus as he stared at him. "I can't leave you alone without you starting at a fight can I?" Sighing deeply and closing his eyes Morven sighed and he smiled sadly breaking eye contact with Fenrir muttering quietly, "I'm sorry I let this happen to you Fenrir, I should've taken responsibility of your questioning and prevented this from happening to you."
Fen was taken aback at at his words and looked at the Specialist with surprise, his mind racing. "Why does he care so much about me," he thought staring at Morven who walked over to Eve after greeting Yang and Ernest. "I mean twice he's saved me and here he keeps apologizing for what Lore did to me, it just doesn't make any sense."
"Eve, while Fenrir is recuperating, and Yang is having her arm finished mind if I use the acclimation chamber for a while?" Morven asked gesturing to the large open room next door. "I could use the stress reliever to be honest."
"Acclimation chamber?" Yang mumbled to herself watching Morven. Listening she heard Eve say yes to whatever Morven had asked, stiffening up when she saw him move over to the table beside the opposite door and lay his coat across the table, his hands going and unbuttoning his shirt underneath before removing that too and laying it on the table.
Reaching down and untying his boots Morven stopped and turned his head to find Yang who was staring open mouthed at him, the confusion on her face at the sight of him undressing causing Ernest and Eve to laugh while Morven looked at her with a perplexed look. "Yang," he said quietly standing, the only things left on his body were his pants and his sword sheathed on his hip as he crossed his arms looking back at her asking, "is there something I can help you with?"
"No not at all," Yang stammered tearing her eyes away from him, "I was just wondering what are you doing stripping with us in the room. I mean am I the only one surprised by this?" She asked looking at the others to find that Fen was the only other person with surprise on his face, while Ernest and Eve just looked on in amusement.
"I honestly don't know what's going on either blondie," Fen chipped in also staring at Morven, but unlike Yang who was embarrassed Fen was studying the Specialist as he looked him over. "Interesting," he thought meeting Morven's eyes again. "It doesn't look like he has a scratch on him, so either that means all the rumors about him are false and he just relies on his reputation, or he really is that skilled. Doesn't matter, either way I owe him a great deal already, so when the time comes I guess I'll see for myself."
"Alright Morven system is ready and spinning up now," Eve called out snapping everyone out of their thoughts. The lights in the large room next door began turning on revealing a large metal pedestal in the center, and on either side of it sticking out of the wall were large tesla like apertures that began humming with power as Morven strode into the room heading for the pedestal.
"Wait! What is he…" Yang yelled out realizing that humming noise they were hearing was a massive electrical buildup, but before she could finish Ernest gently took her unoccupied hand and put a finger over his lips.
"Shhhh just watch him, here is where you'll get a glimpse of the reason he's called the Storm Commander," Ernest said, staring in awe at Morven.
Fen in the biotic tank.
Yang on the table with Ernest beside her.
Eve standing by at the control console.
They all watched as the Specialist drew his sword in a single fluid motion closing his eyes.
"Alright Eve, I'm ready."
Somewhere below the Sea between Vale and Mistral
"So you can assure me that traitor is dead Caius," Adam Taurus said coldly glaring at Caius, his hands behind his back as the wolf Faunus bowed his head, the slow rock of the submarine moving lulling him into a sense of calm as they moved to Mistral.
"I cut him deeply before those two Specialists intervened," Caius said emotionlessly raising his head to look at Adam, "it may have been the Storm Commander and that Schnee bitch but I doubt they saved that traitor, I don't care what they say about him being against killing, because if they found the bodies of those kids and their mother do you believe the Schnee would let him live?"
"Maybe not, from what I've heard about the Storm Commander and know from personal experience, he is somewhat of a pacifist only killing if there is no other choice, " Adam sighed rubbing his jaw thoughtfully. "There is a possibility of Fenrir being alive and remember your weapons ability only works on humans so you can't rely on that against him, and knowing my apprentice he's too stubborn to die from just that."
"You should've just taken his head or brought him back so I could Caius," Adams Lieutenant growled smirking at the white wolf, "it's not like you were that much stronger than your little brother anyway, you should've thanked the Specialists for saving your neck."
"This coming from the guy who let a failed to kill a Schnee, don't think I didn't hear about your little screw up at Mt Glenn, maybe Adam should consider where you stand in the pecking order." Caius said smirking as well remembering the mission that the masked Faunus was assign too. "Had I been assigned to that mission the bitches head would have been on a platter and in front of our leader!"
"Both of you be quiet!" Adam snapped silencing the two bickering, "it matters not right now if that traitor is alive or not. If he was taken prisoner we don't have to worry about him sharing any vital information, we need to focus on the task at hand that Cinder has left us, then after those preparations are made we will travel to Menagerie to complete my plan. It's time for the White Fang to return to its birthplace and reclaim dominance from those idealistic fools." An evil smile crossing his face as the room fell silent.
They stood in silence for a moment before Adams Lieutenant finally broke the quiet, "so we are really going to go through with it then? The coup d'état for total control and beginning the next Great War?" He said with a almost hunger in his voice.
"A Great War we will win this time," Adam said his hand falling to a rest on the hilt of his sword, the feel of it in his hand calming and clearing his mind as he turned back to Caius again. "You understand your task correct?"
"I do, although I requested to be a part of the attack planned in Atlas," Caius said crossing his arms angrily a chance to kill a Schnee isn't something I'd like to pass up, especially in their own home too."
"I doubt you'd be able to pull it off Caius," the Lieutenant said darkly glaring at Caius from behind his mask, "the security will be tight and this infiltration will require tact, hence the reason why myself, our leader's most trusted warrior am not leading it either for I at least know I don't have the subtlety to pull this off. Besides the fact I'm too big to hide and be discreet."
Before Caius could fire back and start another argument Adam growled, "my decision was already made, and my decision remains unchanged. While she's not one of my senior Lieutenants, I believe she can lead the attack and crash that party. But…" Adam stopped and looked at the two men, "if she fails she is more expendable than the two of you, so keep that in mind. Now both of you are dismissed, I have other matters to attend too.
Shooting one last dirty look at each other the two nodded their heads respectfully to Adam and left his chamber, both of them eager to get to their ordered task and further the goal of the White Fang.
Meanwhile back in Atlas an hour later
Yang stood and looked down at her arm in wonder, besides an almost invisible scar seam her arm now looked completely normal. Turning and smiling at Ernest and Eve, Yang with tears of happiness in her eyes choked out a thank you giving first Eve then Ernest a nervous hug.
"Oh it's no problem deary," Eve said like a cheerful grandmother hugging Yang back, "it's our job to help, I'm just sorry we had to do this for you in the first place."
"Yeah what Eve said," Ernest laughed nervously hugging Yang back, his face turning red as he felt her bust press against him.
There was a sudden beeping broke them apart and made Eve turn to the tank where Fenrir was, giving him a big smile she said, "well it sounds like you're good to get out of there now Fenrir," entering in the release code.
There was a hiss as the liquid in the tank began to drain and after a minute the tank was empty and opened up. Removing the respirator and climbing out out Fen stood for a moment before a towel hit him in the face.
"Hey use that to dry off alright, we don't want this place smelling like wet dog," Ernest said snidely before more beeping sent him over to the acclimation control panel.
"Talk about convenient," Eve said nodding in approval as the buzz of electricity coming from the room died down, waiting a moment more before the door opened and Morven came out drenched in sweat. "Here you are dear," she said tenderly handing him his towel before inquiring, "do you feel as though you progressed a bit in your training Morven? The data we gathered looks promising that you're gaining better control."
"I believe it is becoming easier Eve, so when I have spare time here I'd like to continue using this system to train," Morven said taking a deep breath before turning to Fenrir. Seeing he was out of the tank he gave the Faunus a nod and approached him stopping a couple feet away.
"Well you certainly look like you've been working hard Morven," Fen said evenly holding the Specialists gaze. To his surprise Morven smiled slightly and nodded beginning to circle him checking his injuries over to which he asked, "so now what?"
Morven didn't answer but continued to walk around looking Fenrir up and down until he was back in front of him, "alright now come with me Mr. Argyros, you have about an hour and a half before your trial but it might be best to wash up first, after all public image can be important in a situation like this."
"Do you honestly think these people care what happens to me? If anything they'll give me death sentence on the spot, but hey maybe pissing off people is one of the fun things in life I get to do, which reminds me." Fenrir said as he turned turning his gaze towards Ernest with a smirk on his face, "so I smell like wet dog huh," cracking his knuckles.
Morven sighed hearing this and muttered quietly, "dammit Fenrir and sorry in advance for this," closing the distance between them with a single step, Morvan brought his hand down swiftly chopping Fenrir between his neck and his shoulder before the Faunus could even utter a sound, falling to his knees before caught. Sighing again Morven threw Fenrir over his shoulder and shot a look of accusation at Ernest before leaving the room.
"What, I was saying it as a joke Morven," Ernest said walking after him only to be told to stay there or find some work to do. Feeling dejected by his idol, he turned back to Yang and asked, "so what's the deal with that Faunus anyway? Why is Morven doing all this for him, who is he?"
Yang shrugged in response as she watched Morven leave carrying Fen out before turning to Eve asking, "so uhhh now what do I do."
Smiling at Yang Eve replied, "well your more then welcome to come with me Yang, I just have to bring you to the trial on time, but we have time enough for a late lunch if you would like."
As if on cue, Yang's stomach growled and she gave an embarrassed little laugh rubbing the back of her head before nodding.
"Hey mind if I tag along ladies?" Ernest asked moving beside Yang smiling, "lunch will be on me."
"I'm sorry," Eve said with a shrug, " you actually have to process Morvens data and then send it to him later, he's about to make a breakthrough, I can feel it. But next time you can take us out for lunch," ushering Yang out of the room.
Not catching what Ernest said at the end, Yang furrowed her brow at the mention of Morven again and the question that Ernest had asked, "why does he care so much, what was that training I watched and what did Eve mean by make a breakthrough?" Still following Eve Yang finally asked, "hey Eve. So what can you tell me exactly about Morven, I mean I only know bits and pieces about him but from what I've seen he gets a lot of respect around here."
"He is certainly something," Eve said in a knowing tone still moving forward, "alright Yang I'll tell you a bit about him, but for some things you'll have to do your own searching or ask him yourself. Now tell me, what are you in the mood for lunch?"
Meanwhile in the Atlas locker rooms
Fenrir awoke to being splashed with ice cold water with a shout and leapt to his feet ready to fight, his eyes darting around only to find Morven stand to the side, an amused half smile on his face as he put the bucket he had dumped on him down before asking in an amused tone, "so you awake and done causing trouble?"
Glaring at Morven, Fenrir rubbed the back of his neck still sore from the chop, "has anyone ever said that you're an asshole, hitting a guy when he's half naked, I wasn't going to hurt that greenhorn now where the hell are we and where are my clothes!" Looking around the Faunus noticed the room looked entirely different from the one that they were previously in,spotting multiple lockers with the Atlas emblem on the doors and what looked to be a shower area.
"Well that was a risk I couldn't take Mr. Argyros, again I apologize, but now I am going to have to ask you to take a quick shower. It's best to wash off all that gel, after awhile it starts to smell and again appearance can play a big part in this. I already washed up after my training while you were unconscious but I'll be right here if you have any questions."
"Alright here's a question why can't I get any privacy," Fenrir snapped glaring at the Specialist who didn't look like he was going to budge an inch before sighing and turning away.
"Mr. Argyros in case you have forgotten, remember that you are currently in custody right now. I know the procedure is unusual but due to circumstances that are out of our control I have decided to take charge of the situation in a manner I see fit, which is why I have to keep you under my watch. Or would you prefer I place you in the regular holding cells till the trial," Morven said in a stern voice not taking his eyes off him.
Fenrir shot Morven a dirty look at this and remained silent for a moment before shrugging and finally giving in. Looking dejected for a moment Fenrir finally asked, alright so what's the plan Stormy," his teasing tone he noticed making the Specialists eyebrow twitch in irritation for a split second before becoming emotionless again.
"Alright first things first, Mr. Argyros. You are guilty that much is is certain, conspiring against the Kingdoms is a serious offense and punishable by death or life incarceration." Morven paused gauging Fenrir's reaction.
"Wow, and this is supposed to make me feel better. Hell of a pep talk coach," Fenrir muttered leaning against the wall crossing his arms.
"Well your choices led you to this," Morven said evenly also crossing his arms, "but I believe that you are meant to do better things Mr. Argyros. Finding you right after you made that life changing decision had to be fate wouldn't you say?"
Fenrir paused and thought about it again, the memory of the faces of that woman and her two sons hurting his chest knowing that his bid to save them ended in their deaths. "I honestly tried to save them," he reasoned with himself nodding back at Morven. "I had been thinking for awhile that what the White Fang… What we had been doing was wrong, I couldn't just stand by and continue doing what I had been for most of my life."
"And in your attempt to get out they branded you a traitor, your own brother the one sent to kill you. The worst part was he didn't hesitate did he? When I arrived it looked like he already had his fun and was about to end it, wouldn't you say?"
"You have no idea what you're talking about!" Fenrir shouted his eyes tearing up at the memory. "He probably had no choice, they may have threatened to kill him as well so shut the fuck up!"
Morven narrowed his eyes for a moment, a scathing correction on the tip of his tongue before he just just stopped. Seeing the tears building in Fenrir's eyes he sighed heavily and thought of a better approach.
"Listen Fenrir, I'm not dure if you were conscious enough to remember you brothers last words before he retreated, but trust me when I say this. If you… No, when you encounter him again make no doubt that he will be coming for blood. His goal is your demise, but I don't intend on allowing that. That's why I want to trust me."
Fenrir turned away again slamming his fist into the wall, his snow white tail poofing up in anger as he yelled, "well fuck me right. I obviously don't have much of a choice, the only question is what do you get out of this? What does the Storm Commander of Atlas get out of helping desperate old me?"
"You are not in the right state of mind to allow me to help you, Mr. Argyros and honestly we don't have time for this kind of argument. My reasons for helping you are mine alone, but I can swear to you this. My reasons are not to harm you or the Faunus, you could say they are more personal in a sense." Morven sighed again and took a step towards Fenrir, his hand outstretched as he asked. "So what do you say, will you trust me to get you out of this?"
Fenrir glared at Morven again, his fists clenched as if he was going to lash out again and hit the wall or the Specialist. But then he relaxed and slumped in defeat and with his tail drooping he muttered half heartedly, "fine Morven. If you can somehow get me out of this I'll be in your debt."
"Having you in my debt isn't my aim, but I'll take it." Morven said still holding his hand expectantly as Fenrir just stood there looking at him before he added. "A handshake between two men is to show trust, I trust you to an extent now all I ask is for you to trust me."
Grinding his teeth Fenrir looked into Morvens eyes for any hint of deceit but to his surprise only found honest eyes looking back at him. "He truly wants me to trust him," he thought in amazement finally reaching out and grasping the Specialists hand, returning the handshake. "Well my fate is in your hands now Morven, I just hope I don't come to regret it."
"Alright then," Morven said giving Fenrir a nod of approval. "Now please go shower and clean off the rest of the gel from your time in the tank, I'll be here going over our plan for your trial. I have a few people who already know what I believe to be the right line of action to take with you and they agree that it might not only be beneficial to us, but to you as well."
Stepping around the corner to the showers, Fenrir chose one of them and set the water to full didn't even flinch at the heat as he closed his eyes. "Alright Morven. Lay it on me. What's your plan?"
One hour later at the Justice Hall
In the large auditorium all eyes were on Fenrir, from the ten Councilors that sat above him, to the roughly forty others observing the trial. Chained to the center podium with only Morven beside him, Fenrir could feel the tension in the room rising, the muttering of the crowd almost like a roar in his ears as he felt a nervous tension begin to build up.
From above he saw the man who he assumed to be the head Councilor raise his hand and all the noise ceased as he addressed Fenrir.
"Fenrir Argyros. Alias the White Beast. Classification, raid Lieutenant in the White Fang. You have been brought before the Council of Atlas to be tried for multiple counts of conspiracy against the Kingdoms, murder, manslaughter, espionage, the destruction of Government property, and vandalism.
Hearing the last allegation, Fenrir couldn't help but let a smirk escape across his face while Morven groaned massaging his temples.
"What are you smiling about," one of the Councilors growled spotting the smirk on Fenrir's face. "You think this is amusing boy?"
"I honestly think this is fucking hilarious." Fen thought, losing the smirk on his face as he felt the disapproval emanating from Morven and sighed. Swallowing his pride he bowed his head addressing the head Councilor. "Your honor, I'm sorry for the disrespect. It's just the last allegation compared to the others seems a little, ridiculous if I may say."
"Ridiculous yes," another Councilor chimed in crossing his arms staring at Fenrir. "But it is still a crime to tag the symbol of your organization on Government property. With all of these allegations how do you plead?"
Gritting his teeth taking a deep breath, Fenrir looked at each of the Councilors, before growling, "I plead guilty but request rehabilitation."
"Preposterous!" A Councilor roared immediately getting to his feet glaring down at Fenrir.
"I agree," another hissed, her blue eyes narrowing. "For you to even consider that you'd need a sponsor, and even then it would need to be an influential member or someone of upstanding nature, and for someone to do that for a monster like you is unheard of."
"Well consider it heard of now your honor," Morven said tersely moving between Fenrir and the Council, the young man giving him a grateful look. "I request to be his sponsor, I'm sure I meet all the criteria for the job."
"Morven!?" Multiple Councilors cried out in varying degrees of surprise staring at him, while others nodded thoughtfully considering the factors at play.
"From the capture report Morven is the one who brought him in, and stated in the report he did mention how cooperative Fenrir was being with him during his questioning." She narrowed her eyes and met Morven's gaze searching for an ulterior motive as the other members discussed amongst themselves.
Fenrir, feeling someone's gaze focusing on him turned his head and locked eyes with Ironwood. The General just stared at him, his gaze neither hateful nor vindictive, rather it seemed to say. "Morven is sticking his neck out for you, so you better prove yourself."
"Specialist Morven Kenrich, you know by accepting this that you be placed responsible for his actions and suffer the same consequences for his actions." The room fell silent and all eyes went to Morven as the head Councilor got to his feet, raising his hand to get everyone's attention.
"I understand this, and to help I'd like to request as a way to help integrate him, the creation of a team for I believe that would help him understand our side of the conflict between the Government and the White Fang." Morven said looking at the Council with a serious expression.
"If this is the case do you Morven Kenrich, swear to continue upholding the laws and justice of the Kingdom of Atlas? To instruct this misguided young Faunus in ways to benefit and help protect the Kingdom in this time of strife and tribulation? And to if you fail, to remove the threat to the Kingdom and then accept your own punishment without resistance."
"I swear," Morven replied not even hesitating. "I will do everything in my power to help him find the right path."
"You're a fool Morven!" Another Councilor spat, his hateful expression directed at Fenrir. "He may be young, but he's still a killer. He won't change."
Waiting till his fellow Councilor stopped the head Councilor called out. "Now all in favor of allowing Fenrir Argyros to become a ward of Atlas."
Out of the ten Council members seven raised their hands, some with looks of complete approval on their faces while others had a more wary feel to them. "Fenrir. Do you have anything to say?"
Fenrir looked up, his gaze locking onto the head Councilor releasing a heavy sigh he responded. "Not like I have a choice in the matter," turning to look at Morven who gave him disapproving look but still nodded, and from the corner of his eye he saw Yang who giggled silently knowing full well he was deliberately annoying them."
"Then it's decided," the head Councilor announced loudly silencing the other Councilors. "From this day forth, you are now in the custody of Morven Kenrich. Your decisions from this point on shall affect both of you so don't disgrace yourself or your mentor, case dismissed."
And like that it was over, Fenrir who on the outside seemed somewhat calm was doing everything in his power conceal how badly his legs were shaking in fear. That was almost it for me," he thought as he was uncuffed from the center podium and ushered towards the far door by Morven. "If a majority of them didn't agree with his reasoning I would've been executed for sure."
"Mr. Argyros are you listening?" Morven's said snapping Fenrir out of his thoughts. "We have one last thing to do before we gather your belongings and leave understand?"
"Yea whatever, lets just get this over with. I want to get back to my cell so I can get some sleep, after all this hasn't exactly been an easy day for me remember." Fenrir growled continuing behind Morven who slowed down.
"Back to your cell? He murmured turning to face Fenrir, "what makes you think your going to a cell? You are free to an extent as long as you are under my supervision Mr. Argyros, so you will be staying with me and my family at our estate."
Surprised by this Fenrir stopped and gave the man a suspicious look. "Why would you go so far to help me, in a way you're basically putting your life on the line for me. Something only one other person has done that for me." Morven could hear the sadness in his voice as he spoke but chose to stay quiet until the right moment.
"Mr. Argyros, I hope after all you've been through now you can trust me. My reasons are for the greater good and I want you to know, that oath I swore wasn't just for me." Morven said calmly resting his hand on Fenrir's shoulder, "I will do nothing to cause you harm, I will defend you with my life, and I will make sure that no matter what happens you won't have to fear being betrayed again."
Tearing up slightly Fenrir could only mutter, "good luck with that stormy, no offense but I have no intention of being a knight in shining armor like you and I have my own reasons for being so cooperative. Reasons that stay with me, but I will promise you that I'll stay out of trouble but you best tell any racist pricks, that any dog comment I hear won't end well them. I won't kill them I'll just put them in there place." Crossing his arms as they entered what appeared to be a room with numerous objects. I doubt confiscated from other prisoners ,and out of the corner of his eye he spotted his own personal belongings on a table.
"Sorry love I gotta stop you there for a second," said a familiar voice coming from in front of him, and before he knew better he met the glowing eyes of Eve and felt his body go limp as Morven caught him before he fell.
"Don't worry, this will only take a second and is Council's insurance Mr. Argyros," Morven said reassuringly as two more men came from behind Eve. After a second of them fumbling Fenrir felt the back of his neck go numb and a warm dribble go down his neck.
"All done," the first man said and the two men exited without another word as Fenrir began to have feeling return to his body.
Feeling control return to his body he rubbed the back of his neck before giving the old woman a glare. "You know if you had just asked I would have sat down while you put this godawful leash in on me, I swear lady you must get off at paralyzing me!" Fenrir groaned as he looked at Eve who had the usual warm hearted smile on her face.
"I'm sorry deary it was a precaution, there are a few people who already believe you will betray us," Eve said quietly watching for Fenrir's reaction. "Anyway with the chip in now you are free to go, although Morven will be holding onto your weapons for the moment I'm sure you understand."
"Oh fantastic so my girls are in the hands of a human, just throwing this out there but is it too late to change my sentence," Fenrir said sarcastically eyeballing his weapons for a second.
"Well if you remember our conversation back in Mirfield, you don't have to worry, I'll treat these blades with the same respect that Storm Razor gets," Morven said patting the hilt of his own sword. "Now be sure to grab everything that's yours so we can leave, there should be your scroll, wallet and money, and one more thing I'm forgetting."
Nodding his head Fenrir approached the counter which contained his gear make by sure that everything was accounted for he gave a huge sigh of relief when he saw his scarf, quickly wrapping it around his neck before putting everything else away and followed the Specialist out.
After going through security and exiting the building Morven pulled out his scroll and dialed a number, within minutes a sleek black town car pulled in front of them and the door opened. "After you," Morven said gesturing politely for Fenrir to get into the car.
"That's certainly a nice ride," Fenrir muttered eyeing the car enviously before climbing, his guts and instincts telling him something was off, but couldn't put his finger on it. "So where are we going to now? I don't know about you it I could use a nice long nap after the hell I've been through and maybe a hot shower, that reminds me where is your girlfriend it's shocking not to see her away from you." giving the older man a smirk who only returned a blank stare.
"How bout something even better, like a nice home cooked meal," Morven said trying to put the young Faunus at at ease climbing into the car after him. "And as to where we are going, it's my family home, or better described as the Kenrich family estate."
At the mention of his family name Fenrir brought his hand under his chin into a thinking motion, "Kenrich, where the hell have I heard that name from, oh now I remember, Adam told me that he got himself injured by someone with the name Kenrich this must be him." looking at the specialist with wide eyes he asked, "Tell me Morven have you ever encountered a Faunus going by the name Red Devil before?"
"You're talking about Adam Taurus? Yeah we met once before. He's an incredible swordsman, it's just a shame his judgement is so clouded by hate for the humans," Morven said looking out the window as the car moved through the city heading more to the outskirts. "Why do you ask Mr. Argyros?"
"Well since we're being honest here The Red Devil was my teacher, showing me everything I know" Fenrir answered looking down with a solemn expression on his face, remembering the good times with his former teacher.
"He was your teacher huh, that means you should show some promise then, so I'll be looking forward to seeing that." Morven said nonchalantly as he turned back to Fenrir. Noting the confused look on his face he explained, "so since you are required to be under my supervision it was decided that you will be accompanying me on missions for the Kingdom. So to gauge the difficulty of these missions I am going to put your skills to the test tomorrow."
Fenrir smirked at this, "put my skills to the test? I'm more then willing to see how strong you are though."
"Duly noted," Morven said rolling his eyes finishing up typing a message on his scroll, "why do I feel as though he is going to be a real handful to deal with, Yang at least seems disciplined enough at least so there is that in my favor, but then there's the future conflicts he's going to have with Winter. I swear having them fight like cats and dogs is going to get old real fast."
The two of them looked up as the car pulled to a stop and Fenrir couldn't help open his mouth in awe at the sight before him. Behind an impressive stone wall and iron gate was one of the largest houses he had ever seen, not correction one of the largest mansions he had ever seen. As the gate opened and the car entered the area Fenrir saw in the center of the roundabout driveway was a large stone tablet, inscribed on it was the same sword sheathed in a beat up tower shield emblem that was on Morven's trench coat shoulder.
"So this is your home?" Fenrir asked in awe scowling slightly, "must have been nice and easy growing up with that silver spoon." The scorn and envy in his voice completely ignored by Morven.
The car pulled to the front door and waiting there was a lovely woman in a low cut maid-like outfit with long purple hair, hiding slightly behind her they could just barely see a young boy, no older than five or six peeking at them.
Stepping out of the car the boy spotted Morven and ran to him laughing happily. "Morven your back again," he yelled leaping into the Specialists arms.
"Garreth you just saw me this morning," Morven chided gently hugging his youngest brother back before setting him down, a smile on his face which surprised Fenrir before suddenly Morven was face first in a generous amount of cleavage, the maid that was there as well had begun hugging him tightly catching him off guard.
"Oh man," Fenrir thought to himself feeling a slight nosebleed come on as he watched Morven try to fight his way out. "Who is this and how can I get the same treatment?"
"Oh Morven, our hard working Specialist you know I missed you yesterday," the woman said planting a kiss on his cheek before finally letting him go, the normal paleness of his skin now a light shade of red. "Now anyways who's this lost little pup Morven, a friend of yours he seems a little young." She asked leaning forward.
Fenrir blushed bright red as the maid leaned forward giving him a clear view of her cleavage, his tail began to wag at a extremely fast pace making the Faunus blush harder something that did not go unnoticed by the maid, "H-hi my name is Fenrir Argyros is nice to meet someone nice for a change, better than those stuck up goons in Atlas."
"Fenrir huh, that's an interesting name. My name is Lyla Sigal I was the wet nurse for the Kenrich boys growing up so naturally I'm a lot nicer then then most of the people you'll meet out in Atlas, although the whole Kenrich family is very sweet, even Floyd when he's busy with their father working." Lyla said, her musical voice having an almost soothing effect on everyone as her curious amber slitted eyes seemed to laugh.
"Wait slitted eyes, what the hell." Finally tearing his eyes away from her cleavage Fenrir noticed that around her neck was light green scaling that seemed to move over her shoulders. Without even thinking he said in a surprised tone, "wait you're a Faunus?! But I thought…"
"I'll stop you right there sweetie," Lyla said lightly tossing her hair back before crossing her arms. "This whole mindset of all humans hate the Faunus is very mundane, you'll find that if you give them a chance people are a lot more open minded then you give them credit for."
"Lyla as much as I know Mr. Argyros needs to know these things right now probably isn't the time," Morven interjected politely patting his little brother's head who was hiding behind him watching Fenrir. "He has had a long and rough day and tomorrow is going to a struggle for him as well so I'd like to get a hot meal in his stomach and a give him a chance to relax."
Lyla pursed her lips and poured for a second before shrugging her shoulders. "Alright fine Morven you win, conveniently enough dinner is almost done so have your friend get washed up and meet us in the dining hall, I'll make sure an plate is laid out for him."
Fenrir watched her take Garreth's hand and enter the manor leaving him alone with Morven. The two of them standing in silence for a moment until Fenrir muttered quietly, "well I hope everyone else here is as nice as she says." His nose twitching as he finally identified the smell that had bugging him for awhile, something that Lyla had confirmed just from appearing. "There's at least one other Faunus here, maybe two but the smell is so distorted I can't identify the type."
"Cmon then everyone is going to be waiting on us and I'm starving as well." Leading the way Morven and Fenrir washed their hands and proceeded to the dining hall, Morven watching watching Fenrir's reaction as he saw more of the manor till they were right outside of the dining hall where he stopped.
"What's up?" Fenrir asked wondering why that had stopped, the smell of food causing his stomach to growl. About to make another comment he froze seeing the serious look on Morven's face.
"Listen. This is my home, and the people in there are my family. I want to help you Mr. Argyros and I put myself on the line to do so, but know this." Morven took a step closer to Fenrir and it took all of the Faunus's self control not to bolt right there, looking into the Specialists eyes his instincts flaring as he felt for a split second Morven's killer intent. "If you try to harm them in anyway. I will kill you."
The two of them stood there in silence for a second before a voice suddenly called from inside. "Morven are you out there? Hurry up and bring your guest in so we can meet him." A came a motherly voice. Taking another deep breath Morven then nodded to Fenrir and pushed open the door.
Entering the room the first thing Fenrir noticed was the that smell, once again the scent of a Faunus hit him, not the same scent he picked up around Lyla, but a different one. But quickly overpowering that scent was the mouthwatering aroma coming from the large roast boar at the center of the table, complete with an apple in it's mouth and multiple side dishes at the ready.
"Well don't just stand there boys help yourself," said the woman sitting at the table between the young boy he met already and a much older gentleman that he could only assume was their father. He had neatly trimmed grey hair that was even more reserved than his eldest sons, wearing a simple two piece grey suit that matched his hair, he gave the two a friendly welcoming nod and gestured for them to take a seat.
"Father," Morven replied returning the nod before taking his seat, motioning for Fenrir to sit next to him. "This is my family, my mother Serena, my father Yorath, you already met my youngest brother Garreth, and that is my other brother Floyd. The new heir to the Kenrich family business."
When he done Morven turned to his father and mother, "so you know this is Fenrir Argyros, one of the two joining Winter and I's team. I know news of what had happened to Vale isn't completely well known, but it's obvious that the other Kingdoms are going to be targeted as well. I joined to…"
"Morven." Serena said gently staring at him. "Now is probably not the best time to talk about that. At least not around Garreth please." Fenrir, looking closely at her noticed that compared to her other sons, only she and Morven shared those strange gold flecks in the eyes and the dark brown hair. "She's a lovely woman in a more mature sense," Fenrir thought to himself as everyone began dishing up the food and talking, noticing that she wouldn't meet his eyes aside from her initial greeting at the start of the meal.
As dinner continued Yorath turned to Fenrir and asked, "So Mr. Argyros, I take it that you are not from around here. Where are you from?"
Meeting turning to the head of the table Fenrir met the calm brown eyes of Morvens father, his expression patient and not accusing in anyway towards the Faunus. Thinking of what to say Fenrir replied in a nervous tone, "I was born on the outskirts of Vale it was a small village by the name of Norvegr, it was never really big and well traveled so it's not on most maps, so I wouldn't be surprised if you didn't hear of it."
"You said it was a small village, is it not there anymore?" Yorath said with interest putting his silverware down his eyes not leaving their guest who fell silent at this and continued eating, his melancholy expression indicating that he didn't want to talk to about it was clear and Yorath didn't further press it instead turned to Morven. "I understand that you and your team are only going to be in Atlas for the next two weeks at most before back to work I assume."
"That is correct father, would it be too much trouble to provide Mr. Argyros a place to stay during that timeframe? He is afterall my responsibility now," Morven said in a strange tone nodding slightly to his father.
Fenrir's eyes widened in fear. "What is he going to say? Am I going to be thrown out or is Morven going to have to send me back to stay in a cell," he thought bracing himself for the worst.
"No that'll be fine, right dear?" Yorath asked turning to his wife who nodded, a slight fear still in her eyes. "He's welcome here as long as he needs to place to stay, granted he doesn't cause any trouble," he said with a light chuckle shooting Fenrir a friendly nod.
Setting his fork down Fenrir muttered loudly, "what is wrong with you people? Just letting me into your home no questions asked or anything, do you even know who I am or what I've done?" Everyone at the table fell silent at this and looked at Fenrir, not with looks of hate of distrust but with sympathy that caused him to bare his teeth.
Still with a look of sympathy on his face, Yorath got to his feet and came around to Fenrir's side placing a hand gently on his shoulder. "Our son trusts and believes in you so why wouldn't we? He has been known to be a pretty good judge of character." With that everyone began moving to their feet and the meal was over.
"Here come with me, I'll show you where you'll be staying," Morven said beckoning Fenrir to follow. After walking a little ways they stopped in front of a room and Morven opened the door.
"I hope this room is to your liking," Fenrir heard him say as the door opened revealing a spacious room with a double bed and closet. Walking in the rest of the way Morven reached into his coat and pulled out a folded piece of paper before muttering quietly. "Listen I know you're still not sure about trusting me, but I want you to know that I'm on your side."
Taking the piece of paper, Fenrir waited till Morven left and closed the door before he unfolded it. His heart rising in his throat blinking away tears he looked at the old photo he had taken with his family many years ago, written across the bottom in his mother's neat print was her favorite lesson to him.
"The lone wolf may be strong my son, but the pack lives without fear… Find your pack."
"Don't worry mom," Fenrir whispered sprawling across the bed looking up at the ceiling, yawning once before closing his eyes. "I'll find my pack."
AN: Sup guys it's your boy Keeper here to wrap up another chapter, main man Fenrir has had it rough these last couple of chapters, but now poor guy has finally seemed to catch a break. He's not out of the woods yet though, his greatest challenge is still approaching so if you enjoyed this chapter please leave a Review, Follow, and Favorite.
This is Keeper of The One Winged Angel returning to the planet.
