Hello to all, I am deeply enjoying the rain! Really sets the mood…kinda. Anyhow, while I am booked with assignments and the constant annoyance from my family asking me about college, I am still here to bring you the next chapter.
"The bond that links your true family is not one of blood, but of respect and joy in each other's life." -Richard Bach
Humans were never allowed into the Northern Winds, some always managed to sneak through the dense forest entrance, though very few ever made it out alive. The Faunus were given sympathy for a short time, until the arrival of the new White Fang, with their violent tendencies and ruthless tactics, the Grimm sought out their extermination soon after. Although this was the sworn war of the Grimm, eventually the Kaidon drifted from their comrades. To start a war to prevent future ones almost sounded like a human idea. The Kaidons, unlike the other Grimm, mourned the deaths of their brothers, sisters, fathers, mothers, sons and daughters. Initial attempts to seek peace between the Grimm and humans 100 years ago were met with their near extermination. With no hope left for either side, they descended into the mountains, leaving them to slay any wandering humans or Faunus. While also lying in wait for the worse of the storm to pass. That is, until a small human was brought unto them by their leader. A child with some polite manner left in her, but with scars of countless survived battles.
The first reaction was disapproval, the old Kaidons refused to allow a human to stay in their home. Of course, that was before a deal was struck; if she surpassed a basic Kaidon trainee, then she would prove her worth to live amongst them.
The deal was made with the expectation of her failure, yet what transpired surprised even the veteran soldiers. Given her short stature, and fragile body, her opponents took some form of sympathy, hesitating in their attacks. Their judgments of her lacking what they saw as sufficient makings of a warrior, allowed her victories to be silent and swift.
The time spent with these Grimm disproved all the theories that every one of these black and white beasts were savage monsters. And when her own kind rejected her, this one took her in and brought her up. Learning their culture, traditions, and seeing the world through their eyes birthed an unflinching loyalty.
A mutual sentiment.
Vadam walked deeper into the hollow cave, a large citadel lit the darkness within the vast mountain. An entire world concealed in hopes of preserving lives, traditions, and perhaps the last bastion in which all of Remnant can find unity. Whether through peace and understanding, or become a martyr; a common enemy, just as the Grimm has acted for over a millennia. However in this case, it would mean extinction.
His gaze fell on the training grounds where Emerald trained, fought, and won. When he found her in the forest, the will to fight was strong, as was the hatred in her heart which could easily be manipulated. His initial intentions were to use her for his own gain, then throw her away without any attachment. Sadly, that was precisely what happened; he became too attached, more so when she openly trusted him, and followed every rule he set forth no matter how ridiculous. One thing Vadam detested was lowering himself to the level of a human. To abandon her after all he did for her would've made him exactly like the humans whom where the cause of her being in that forest in the first place.
He continued watching as the new recruits were trained to fight the coming war that would soon plague Remnant. On those same grounds, the Kaidons, for the first time in their history, accepted a human into their society. The mark each warrior bears is a commitment to fight, protect and honor their families. Vadam's mark was placed on his upper right chest. Surprisingly, the Kaidons added on to the armor they already had from the Ursa and Mamadons they hunted in the Northern Winds.
Thanks to Emerald, more items were brought back from outside the tundra; books in particular. The wealth of knowledge allowed progress in war tactics, medical purposes, and the forging of customized machinery.
There were other surprising events that took place, which Vadam had no regrets in any way. 5 years training Emerald, and in that time, the master/student relationship eventually drifted to something else. After her initiation, she no longer referred to Vadam as; master. To her, he was...
"Father."
Vadam's attention was caught by his youngest daughter, approaching him with a small metallic object in her hand.
"Hana, should you not be training with the recruits? If you wish to be like your sister, then you must train just as hard as she did."
"I know, and speaking of which, I just received this from Rou." In her hand was a small metallic device from the outside. Odd, yet curious at the same time. "The humans use this as a means of communication, and somewhat of a beacon. If Emerald's mission would go awry in any manner, her location would appear on this device. I pray she will never need to use this."
Vadam sensed the worry in his daughter's tone. "Do you trust your sister?"
Hana avoided eye contact, starring at the city, then hesitantly nodding. Her father placed a firm hand on her shoulder. "Then your fears are unfounded. She is a capable warrior, I have full faith she shall complete her mission, just as she always has."
-Beacon Cafeteria, Next day-
After the match that left a blonde in bandages, and mystery surrounding a particular girl, rumors began flying. Jaune's wounds weren't as bad as how the match video depicted, but the bruises and cuts were still a bit tender. Seeing Emerald fight the way she did during a practice match, students assumed she held some sort of grudge against him. Though what they saw the next few mornings was nothing close to what the rumors detailed. The two were sitting next to each other, speaking as if they've known one another for years. Laughing and enjoying each other's company.
While some found it confusing, a very selective few found it annoying. To teams RWBY and (J)NPR, it was quite worrisome. One second she was pummeling the boy senseless, and the next they were holding each other by the cliff like a scene in a cliché romantic novel, much to the displeasure of two women in particular.
"I've never seen Jaune smile that widely." Ren commented, unaware he was fueling an already explosive jealous-like aura.
"Just who is she?" Pyrrha's toned edged just as dark as what her current thoughts wanted to do.
"Emerald Sustrai, born and raised in the city of Fontaine, Vacuo, same as Jaune. They're childhood friends, separated because of an accident that both blame themselves for." Again, Ren spoke up, this time silencing the girls around him. When their glances were directed to him, he predicted the upcoming question and shrugged "I asked, he answered."
While the boy in green was being interrogated for the knowledge he acquired, Jaune and Emerald were still catching up before their next class. The main topic of their discussion revolved mainly on personal experiences, while also bragging over a few more favorable topics. What sparked a heavy interest in their conversation was when Emerald mentioned her training.
"So this tribe took you in, and trained you?" Jaune asked, somewhat worried.
Emerald nodded. "Yea, at first the welcoming wasn't so warm, the training was brutal, but i passed all the tests given to me. And when all was said and done, the one who found me, the tribe leader, offered me a place in his family." The happiness in her tone was easily detected. Although a bit worried, Jaune was happy his friend finally had a proper family that cared about her.
"Wait, do you still go by the surname; Sustrai? Or do you go by your new family's name?"
"Sustrai, last names aren't really used in the tribe, and I needed one to enroll in Haven. If we do have one, it'd be the first name of our fathers. Mine would be: Emerald of Vadam."
"That's your father's name?"
Emerald nodded proudly.
Jaune was more than happy for her, after seeing her parents in Fontaine; it was a blessing for her to finally have a family that cared for her. Then again, Jaune always saw her as family, treated her as he would his siblings, but seeing Emerald after all this time had sparked something inside him. He couldn't describe it, but being around his childhood friend was more than enough to keep him smiling through Portland's lectures, which in many experiences, is impossible to do.
After classes began, for some reason he found himself sitting between his trainer/study buddy; Yang, and his childhood friend; Emerald. Both of which were giving off a deathly aura every time they looked at one another. Mercury found it odd that his usually cold partner grew attached to some kid she beat up the day before. Cinder found the whole situation somewhat amusing, and troublesome if her subordinate got too attached. All the while, Weiss sat through most of her classes smiling; with Jaune distracted by his childhood friend, he finally stopped the failed attempts to woo her.
In Portland's class there was finally a topic that caught everyone's attention; Kaidons. The old man began his ramble on a serious tone, which was surprising, given his usual manner of delivering lectures.
"The Kaidons; little is known about these Grimm, only that they inhabit certain parts of Remnant, hunting other Grimm while killing any and all that are not them. These creatures are smaller compared to other massive beasts, but they more than make up for that in cunning tactics. Out of all the known Grimm only the Kaidons fight using attack formations, and communicating with one another before and during a battle. If you first years should encounter these monsters; do not attempt to fight them. If they can win; they'll go for the kill without hesitation. If they cannot, then they will simply hold their ground and call for help. And when they do, you had better hope your speed is enough to escape."
Emerald, unlike the others, glanced to the windows, watching clouds pass slowly. This subject was primarily based on survivor accounts, and theories. She knew more than what this pompous teacher was lecturing, however, some of what he spoke was true. And although she knew enough to correct him, the knowledge she possessed is better left a secret for various reasons.
"So remember, should any of you find yourselves near the Northern Winds, take this into account; of the 10,000 veteran hunters who've traveled to this vast tundra in search of these legendary Grimm, only about 100 have returned to us. However, 'in one piece' would not be the best way to describe their current state."
The whole class was dead silent, unlike most of his boasting speeches; Portland actually spoke as if he himself couldn't hold his own against these Grimm.
"But do not worry, these Kaidons are only found in the Northern Winds. There are other Grimm, such as the Saber, which are closer of a challenge for hunters in training such as yourselves. Why, I remember when..."
And once again, the man lost his students. His voice now more booming and annoying than before. The beginning lecture did do some good; it instilled fear amongst these humans. Some ignorant types, such as those of CRDL, believed that they stood a fighting chance. Emerald could only picture how little these boys would last against even a Kaidon trainee.
A sudden thought quickly came to mind over her current situation; she was allied to the Kaidons, loyal only to her father, Vadam. That much was certain, yet, if that was the case then it would mean if he got in the way, Jaune would become a target? She had no problem with killing Cinder or Mercury, but Jaune was another thing entirely. Everything was starting to become confusing to the point where her thoughts ached more than Portland's voice.
She had a few days before the Kaidon forces near mount Glen were ready to storm the White Fang hideout, and acquire any information Vadam wanted from them. While also covering her tracks, and rejoining her brothers after the whole ordeal transpired. But if this school responded quickly enough to Grimm, specifically Kaidon presence, then no doubt she would have to face Jaune in battle. She prayed that the operation would go quickly without the need of hunters barging in.
If Vadam was truthful, then there would be more tribes assisting the raid. Humans believe these Grimm are only found in the Northern Winds, yet if they knew the whole truth, their paranoia would only throw them into another conflict. Emerald remembered meeting the other tribe leaders, just before her current assignment started. Four tribes reside in Remnant, those of; Northern Winds, Eastern Deserts, Western Jungles, and Southern Isles. These Grimm showed their difference in culture very much, their rankings varied by armor.
Emerald had to forge her own from the exoskeleton of a Mamadon she took down with one of her comrades. It was one thing being accepted, but to earn respect and loyalty was more than she could ever want. But would she truly risk all of it just to keep from killing her childhood friend? Or will he reject her if he knew what she became, what she truly was?
Just as her mind began playing different scenarios she felt an arm shake her. The boy in question gazed at her worryingly. "Hey, Emmy, are you ok?"
To which she smiled, not wanting to ruin what little moments of peace she had with him. Though not completely convinced, Jaune respected her response, if only for a little while.
As they entered the next class, this time Jaune sat near the end of a desk with Emerald occupying the only chair next to him. Sticking her tongue out at Yang playfully, whilst the blonde brawler glared at her.
Goodwitch cleared her throat before beginning her class. "Before I begin today's lesson, there is a matter I must discuss amongst the many of you. Tomorrow morning, every first year team from their respective schools will gather in the amphitheater, you will all embark on assignments that will test each of you in both physical and mental abilities. Missions will vary from police work here in the city, to search and destroy in Mount Glenn. I would advise you all plan accordingly, and assure you take into account the wellbeing of your whole team. There are some missions a few of you are not ready for, it is important to always take your team into account. Now then, today we will begin with..."
Just as she turned away from her class, Emerald began dreading truth of what she spoke. If these brats were truly going to be poking around in the abandoned city, they might come across the White Fang hideout...or worse, the Kaidon forces. Either way, Cinder wasn't too pleased with the news, advising Mercury to warn Roman of incoming pests. Though knowing the idiot, he would take the warning lightly.
Things were happening way too fast, she had just finally found the only person she ever loved, and the very next day they'd probably be fighting against one another. But, would Jaune still accept her, would he open up to her people, and realize that sometimes; there are some things that can be different?
No. Jaune wanted to be a hunter, to protect his people from the Grimm. And Emerald? She was fighting for them, friends doomed to become enemies. Even if they shared a warm past together, their futures would never have them alongside one another. Only with a blade at each other's throats. If she wanted to confess her feelings in the case that tomorrow was indeed their last day as friends, then she wanted to make it count.
She quickly scribbled a small note, 'meet me tonight in my dorm, past curfew. We need to talk. Come alone.' and passed it to Jaune.
Mercury was going to accompany Cinder to one of their informants in the city; she'd be alone the whole night. She glanced to Jaune, whom was slightly nervous, though calming himself a bit before glancing to her and nodding.
-Mountain Glenn, outskirts. Nighttime-
Gazing upon the ruins of Mount Glenn, it was a wonder the humans ever tried expanding to begin with. Tsar, Vadam's eldest son, watched a herd of Goliath's pass the abandoned city. These beasts resembled the Mamadons by the curve in their tusks. However the larger beasts back home had much more fur, and armor protecting them.
"Tsar."
The Grimm in question turned to his comrade as she walked up to him with a modified scroll. "I received a message from Emerald, there are hunters arriving tomorrow. Their interference might hinder our plans. What shall we do?"
To this, Tsar merely grinned, allowing his teeth to bare. "Nothing. I will follow these humans when they arrive. With luck, they might just stumble across the White Fang."
Once again, he directed his gaze to the Grimm around the abandoned city. If the reports of a surviving tunnel directly under Vale were true, then 'unleashing hell' would have a whole new meaning. The plans were set, and the Grimm were vast in numbers. One small opportunity and they would swarm the city in minutes. And while the humans fight, the Kaidons would just sit back and watch the chaos.
-Beacon; nighttime-
Just as the lights finally dimmed, and his teammates fast asleep. Jaune snuck out quietly and carefully. Emerald's dorm wasn't too far, but going about silently was preferred given the situation. Once he reached her dorm, he sent her a message via scroll. In mere seconds, the door opened, revealing a dark room lit only by a single candle. He entered very carefully, closing the door behind him. He walked to the candle, it being his only beacon in this dark room. Just as he reached out to it, a hand caught his. "It's me. Don't freak out." Emerald's whisper managed to halt what could've been a 'manly' shriek. When Jaune was about to turn to face her, she instantly covered his eyes. "Listen very closely; I'm going to remove my hand but you are to keep your eyes closed until I say otherwise, do not to make any sudden noises…or leave. Got it?"
With a simple nod, she removed her hand, his eyes shut tightly. She gently grabbed his hand, and directed the palm upward. Jaune felt something soft, and round. He could hear Emerald moan just slightly, leading him to blush and continue fondling whatever was in his hand. It wasn't until he heard her moan just a bit louder did he realize what he was exactly cupping. His eyes snapped open, and even with the small light of a single, Emerald's body was shown completely. He would've reacted to this situation, had the scars on her shoulders, chest, and upper thighs not been the first thing to catch his attention.
Emerald covered what little she could of these remembrances, her eyes drifting to the floor. "Not very attractive are they?" she half-joked.
For some reason, her being naked around him no longer seemed to bother him. His focus being mainly on her "No, you're still as beautiful as the day I met you." his words managed to give her a smile, along with boosted confidence.
Almost instantly, she threw herself on him, burying the blush on her face in his chest. Being in pajamas, there was no way Jaune didn't feel the warmth of her body. His own blush could easily challenge Ruby's name sake.
"Jaune?"
He glanced down, her eyes almost ready to run rivers again. "Please, don't deny me this." Her voice near the point of breaking, Jaune wanted to think this through carefully, but certain things said otherwise. Very gently, he cupped her face allowing the two to embrace one another. The feeling was better than what she had imagined. As they descended together upon her bed, a single gust of wind blew out the candle's light. Leaving whatever transpired in the eyes of the night.
And there you are, this story is advancing very fast. I know, forgive me. I am not very good in regards to smut; however, I believe your imaginations are much more 'creative' than anything I can write. Talk about sleeping with the enemy, right? And I shall leave you with this, as always thank you for reading.
