Disclaimer: I don't own RWBY and Tales of Berseria they are the rightful property of RoosterTeeth and Bandai Namco.

Italics are thoughts

Bold and Italics are flashbacks

Bold are artes being performed

**Communications through scrolls and other devices

("Ozpin speaking through Oscar)


Chapter 53 A Perfect Storm

(Location: Residence Mistral Upper District Anima continent Kingdom of Mistral Remnant)

Laphicet got up early in the morning, feeling like he has gotten enough asleep. The teen wasn't surprised the others already awake. Qrow and Oscar have left, probably to have a look around and check the situation at Haven. They wanted an answer from Leonardo's meeting with the council. Ren, Jaune and Nora have made breakfast for everyone. Pancakes was the menu and that was enough for the young Crowe's mouth to watered. It was also the Valkyrie meal too. Laphi had around five of them and he was already full. While the girl has actually ate ten. It shocked him how much can a girl eat. Jaune informed him that the girls have already eaten and they were outside of the house, at the backyard. The Arc also told him, Weiss made tea for three obviously, for her, Ruby and Yang. So the teen left the kitchen heading to the backyard. Guess the three girls wanted to catch up after being separated for so long.

And Ozpin did said they should take a break and time to spend with each other, before they make their next move. As Laphicet arrived at the backyard, he could hear the voices of the girls. Instead of having a regular, happy conversations, there was a lot of tension. It was coming from Yang who sounded upset. Because Weiss and Ruby have brought Blake into topic and the blond brawler wasn't in the mood. The young Crowe remembered back at Beacon that the raven haired faunus of the team left. She has sent them a text. Obviously she was afraid the White Fang will go after them as long as she was with them. But compared to the danger he and team RNJR have been through since they started their journey to Mistral, it wouldn't make a difference if they were hunted down by the faunus group. He didn't wanted to interfered in something personal, so he left.

Laphi did needed to talk to them, especially, one girl in particular. But now, it wasn't the right time. So the teen returned to his room and try to get some practice with his weapon. Summoning his thin sword, he practice some moves, but he failed. He knew if Ozpin were here, he will lecture him again about his formation and way of attacking, that he will let himself wide open for an attack, or lowering his guard towards the enemy. The young Crowe sighed, he wasn't going anywhere on his own. He wasn't progressing like Jaune did under Velvet's tutelage. The Arc has gotten better and stronger thanks to his older sister. How he was going to get better without someone guiding him. It was crazy and simply dumb to train without a teacher. The minutes went by and Laphicet finally called it a quits. Making his weapon vanished, the teen decided to leave his room. Maybe Yang has cool down from their conversation now.

Passing through one of the rooms, the door was half-opened. The young Crowe heard voices belonging to Weiss and Yang. Curiosity can be a real pain sometimes as the teen poked his head a little. He was eavesdropping on their conversation. Now, he knew it was wrong and Velvet has taught him better. But it really caught his attention and he was right. The blond brawler was still upset because Blake left, she mentioned her mom leaving her, then Ruby's mom and how silver eyed girl was too young to speak, followed by her father being busy at work. Laphicet felt sorry for her after hearing that, realizing the blond has "abandonment issues". Team RWBY must have become like a family to her and she needed everyone from the team. And she couldn't cope without the faunus member. He was able to relate to her, he never knew his parents because he was too young. His older sister Celica and Arthur were the closest things he had to a mother and father.

Then he heard Weiss's side of her story. How her father admitted that he only married her mother because of the Schnee name, just when she was ten. How he missed her birthday party, her mother getting angry and he snapping. It made him feel sorry for the white haired girl too. Just for pure convenience, just for the sake of a last name Jacquess would want a family. Anyone growing up in such a family would feel lonely, like Yang. So both girls had something in common that both were truly alone, in search of friends. It made him smiled hearing the former heiress say that team RWBY was more to a family to her than her biological one. The young Crowe decided he has heard enough, he had to go. Then he felt someone touching his shoulder, he freaked out that he ended up entering the room, falling to the ground. Laphicet gasped as Weiss and Yang were staring at him, behind him, Ruby, the one responsible for startling him.

"Laphi?" said Weiss.

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry! I didn't meant to eavesdropped. I just listened and...I'm sorry" he blushed from the embarrassment.

"It's okay. It wasn't that personal" Yang shrugged it off.

"I think it was" the boy lowered his head but gazed back at the blond" Yang, do you hate Blake?"

"I don't...I don't hate her, I'm just angry with her…."

"That's good, but you shouldn't stay angry at her. I might not know what you're going through. I once thought I had the perfect family" he sighed not wanting to remember the Scarlet Night and his choice to become Innominat's sacrifice" I lost most of them and the only family I have left is Velvet. And she's not here I...Sorry I'm not good at this stuff. Point is, I don't want you guys arguing, I believe you guys are more than just friends. You all have become a family as teammates. So you should give Blake a chance when you see her again and don't try stay angry at her. Let her explain to you, her side of the story and apologize for leaving."

The brawler smiled, getting up from the bed and pulled the boy into a hug" you're so nice sometimes. It's like having another sibling, but better than Ruby."

"Hey!" the red cloak petite pouted" I'm right here, you know!"

The comment made Weiss giggled while Laphicet was blushing at the compliment as he broke free from Yang's embrace.

"I'm not kidding. I see all of you as my family too. Jaune, Ren, Nora, them too. Even Pyrrha. I want Blake to be here, I missed her too. And besides, you guys need her. It wouldn't be Team RWBY without her. It will say team RWY (Ruy)."

"He has a point" said Ruby smiling.

"True. We can't be a team without our fourth member" followed the white haired girl.

"And Team RWY definitely sounds lame" followed the brawler with a smile" thanks Laphi, you too Weiss.

"What are friends for?" the young Crowe and former heiress said in unison as they gasped, the two sisters laughed.

"You guys are totally in synced!" replied the brawler.

"Sorry for eavesdropping."

"Actually, it was more my fault for startling you, sorry" said the silver eyed girl.

"It's okay! No biggie, it's mud under the water" blushed the teen seeing the petite feeling bad with herself, he didn't wanted her to be sad or anything.

"That's water under the bridge" corrected Yang.

"Right" he blushed again finally getting to why he was here" Weiss...I have a favor to ask of you."

The white haired girl stood in thought not knowing what he wanted.

"I..." he cleared is throat while blushing" can you...Can you help me with my training? I don't have a problem when it comes to casting artes. But, I don't know how to use my weapon. My sword, has more of a resemblance to a rapier and since you used a rapier, I thought you could give me a few lessons."

"You really want my help?" the former heiress was taken back.

"You're very good with your weapon. I thought who's any better to teach me than one who has mastered a rapier?"

"Well I…." Weiss was blushing from the compliment while smiling" sure...I don't see a problem. I'd be happier to teach you."

"Thanks!" Laphicet was now overjoyed" can we start now?"

"Of course, we can start with the basics. Let's get going" the girl left the room with an eager boy following her.

"You know, you could have also asked my sister. She's more experienced than me."

"I know. But I don't know her that much, like I know you. And plus, she's not here."

"Good point" she actually forgot Winter returned to her men.

"Good luck Laphi!" shouted Ruby exiting the room" you can do it!"

"And speaking of training" Yang walked over to her sister" since Ozpin isn't here, guess it's up to me to watch over your training."

"Training?" the silver eyed girl turned paled.

"You know, the hand-to-hand combat training you started with him? He did said you lack so much and I know he's right, because we had a sparring match long ago once, remember?"

"I...I...I, well look at the time! I better get going, I have that thing to do with Nora…."

"Oh no you don't!" the brawler caught the girl by her red cloak" you and I, outside, right now!"

"No, not another match without using my baby Crescent Rose!"

"You need to rely more on your fists than your weapon sis. Your kicks too. I'll sharpen you up before you know it" she grinned.

"NO! Someone help! Laphi, Jaune, anyone!" the petite was being dragged by her older sister.


Blake stood on the terrace to her room looking in thought. This entire district has been a let down. No faunus doesn't want to aid them in joining up the fight against the White Fang to save Haven Academy. She knew Velvet and the others must be in Mistral by now and they were willing to fight them. That's why it was important for her to get involved and find reinforcements. Too many times she has run away in the past, from Adam, from herself, but not anymore. It's time she faces that past and fear and move forward. She wasn't alone, there are people who care for her and still believe in her. She wasn't planning in letting them down. Not her friend, not her family, no one. Though it felt like it was all hopeless. That everyone on the island was too scared to fight the faunus group, more like, many of them supports them. They accept Adam's ideals. Not like she was planning in giving up.

"Hey!, Blake! You ready to go?!" Sun's voice came from the inside of her room.

"Be right there!"

As she placed her hands on the wooden rail, she noticed something odd. There was a piece of paper attached to tape. Blake immediately took it and opened it. Reading it the raven haired faunus realized it was from Ilia. According to the note, she wanted to meet up with her and talk. This was it, maybe she was starting to have second thoughts in following the White Fang. It was the perfect chance to finally convince her of what she's doing is wrong. To bring her friend back to her senses and make the same mistake she once did, listening to Adam.

"We're going recruiting or what? We've got the entire nocturnal section to hit up" the monkey faunus emerged to the terrace.

"You okay?" he noticed something was wrong with her.

"Yeah, I'll meet you there. I need to take care of something first."


"Hm, there's more?"

Velvet has decided to seat on her knees before the small table resuming to drink her tea. Raven was curious to what else she wanted to know. Just when she was thinking that the black haired woman was done. Though she didn't like the comment she made about her daughter when it comes to her parenting. Regardless, she understood why Qrow and Ozpin has put a lot of trust in her. She wasn't just strong, but smart too. Her attacks, it was similar to having magic therefore, the Crowe was probably in the same level as a maiden, or maybe even more. That's why she was dangerous and definitely a thorn in Salem's plans. It was a shame she was on Ozpin's side. Having her as a member of her tribe will do a lot of good. With her and the Spring Maiden by her side, she'll be able to stand toe to toe with Salem's people. But, it was all strange the young woman would want to stay and talk some more.

"I told you everything I kept from my daughter and the other students. What else would you like to know?"

"Just curious, that's all. Just by taking a glance at this place. Your defenses are the worst."

Raven glared at her not liking the comment one bit.

"What you called a" tribe" is nothing but a bunch of fools who probably have no idea what kind of danger they are in."

"Watch your tongue Velvet. Just because you're a guest, it doesn't mean you have the privilege to speak ill to my men. And they know exactly why they're here, to survive the outside world where they can't."

"By stealing and killing people?"

"Is there a point for all of this? My patience is starting to grow thin. If there's something else you want to ask me, then say it. Otherwise, I'll be more than glad to send you to my brother and daughter."

"Your men, they're just bandits, thieves. They don't stand in equal ground to huntsmen or a huntress. I bet all of us earlier would have been able to take them all out in seconds. I'm guessing asides from you and Vernal, the rest are easy pickings."

"…."

"Which lets me to wonder if you're truly preparing yourself for an enemy invasion, or a welcoming committee."

"That's what you wanted to ask me?"

"If Salem sent anyone of her people like Cinder and find this place, it will be over. She'll burn down the whole camp before anyone can get a chance to fight her. And the fact that you still haven't move your camp yet makes me wonder…."

"…..."

"You're expecting them, don't you? You're not planning to run and hide this time. You want them to come, why?"

"You really are smarter than you look. Maybe I do want her people to find my camp. What's the point of asking?"

"If it's Cinder, Mercury Black and Emerald Sustrai. I doubt you and Vernal will be able to take them on. A maiden and two skilled fighters aren't the best odds. You're going to surrender."

"I have no intentions of surrendering to the likes of them."

"Then you have other intentions, an ulterior motive?"

Raven calmly finished her tea" what do you want Velvet?"

"I want to know what you're up to. If you want the enemy to find you, then you must have some sort of plan in mind."

"…..."

"Answer me. I'm not leaving until you tell me and if you oblige me to send me to Mistral, I will fight back" the former therion glared at the red eyed woman.

"Not just you're smart but you're an annoyance as well. Demanding me to tell you? That is quite a bold move to make. You're as stubborn as my daughter."

"And Weiss was right when she said you're obnoxious, your point?"

Instead of getting upset the tribe leader actually chuckled" I am not looking for a fight. But you're right again, I do want Salem's people to find me and I already know what to do. Vernal is the only one I have told of my intentions."

Velvet kept staring at her, she was determined to know. She meant it, she wasn't leaving this place until she tells her. Call it a hunch, but she had a feeling it has to do with the relic at Haven Academy.

"You might have earned my respect after all, in a way, but not my trust."

"Should I care about your trust? We might not agree on some things. But I do know, we have something in common."

"And what will that be?"

"We both don't want the Relic of Knowledge to fall on Salem's hands."

"…"

"Your plan might also be the reason why you didn't wanted Yang to stay. Or am I wrong?"

"I suppose someone so stubborn, demanding, dares to insult my men and defies my authority as leader, deserves to know. But now, that I think about it, letting you in on it might be benficial in some way, after all."

"So" the older Crowe took another sip from her cup" what's your big plan?"

"I'm going to join Salem."

The former daemon raised an eyebrow, thinking she was just joking. But no, someone like Raven would never joke about something this serious. She might never joke at all.

"A deception of course. But it will be a good deception."

"You really think you can convince anyone that you have turned?"

"One needs the right words and actions to prove a point. After that, the rest will be easy. Like you, I do believe Salem will send Cinder Fall since she's a Maiden now. She's the better candidate to infiltrate Haven."

"You're going to help her get to the Vault?" Velvet didn't like where this was going.

"Once I have convinced her of my new loyalties, and that Vernal is the rightful Spring Maiden. It won't be such a hard task. Leonardo, the headmaster has already prepared the school for their arrival."

"So Lionheart is working for Salem. I suspected it for a long time."

"He knows which side to chose in order to survive, just like me. I'll be the one to guide Cinder to Haven. Once we're in the Vault, I will strike her down."

"It's not going to be that easy. Cinder is too smart I know, she might suspect Vernal isn't a Maiden. You have to thread carefully when it comes to someone like her."

"Then I will make sure to convince her fully, that I'm on her side now."

"What about Qrow and the students of Beacon? My brother is among them" the older Crowe glared, there was no way she didn't wanted Laphicet to get hurt in this mess.

"I'm willing to do anything for the sake of the plan and my tribe. If they don't get in my way, there won't be a problem."

"You think they're going to stand there and do nothing?! They're going to fight anyone that will threaten the school or the relic."

"So be it, let them fight. I will not be held responsible of the outcome from such conflict."

"You…." Velvet glared at the tribe leader as some of the malevolence escaped her body, her eyes turned red" if anything happens to any of them especially my brother. Cinder and Salem won't be my only enemy."

"This is reality, not some fairy tale where the heroes always win. In this world we have to do anything to survive. The strong live and the weak die. If I have to deceive anyone or fight my own blood, then let it be!"

The long black haired woman kept her glaring before she tried to calm down. The malevolence faded as her eyes returned to their normal color. This was truly a complicated situation. But that was all according if Cinder and her group does come here. Have they know the location to Raven's camp. The red eyed woman was expecting it. But something was really bothering her. How was she going to convince Cinder that Vernal is the Spring Maiden. The amber eyed woman wasn't stupid she will obviously the female Branwen to showcase some of her powers. Wait, her Grimm mask. If she wears it during the proof of power, she might actually pulled it off. Yet, Velvet still had doubts. Remembering the Fall Maiden was truly clever and always one step ahead. Will this plan work. It was true, she didn't know how good of an actress is Raven until she sees it.

"Raven, we have a problem" Vernal entered the tent looking worried.

"What is it?"

"Salem's found us."

"Sooner than I anticipated, okay" the red eyed woman got up.

"Four of her followers are waiting to speak with you" resumed the young woman.

"Three of them must be Emerald, Mercury and Cinder" replied the older Crowe.

"Right. We planned for this. Bring me my helmet."

"I have to warn Qrow and the others about Cinder being in Anima."

"I'm sorry Velvet, but I can't let you go, now that you know the truth. Even if I trust you will keep it a secret, I won't take the risk."

"You're going to keep me here?" the black haired woman didn't like it, seeing Cinder again after six months wasn't in her best interest.

Vernal gave her leader the Grimm mask, putting it on" as I said, having you here will be beneficial. Because of you, convincing them will be a whole lot easier than I originally thought. So you better do well in your part, if you know what's good for you."

"I have to play the prisoner role, again?" it's to be expected, looks like Laphi and everyone will have to wait for her, longer than she thought.

"You don't seem to understand" a grin was formed behind her mask" you ARE the prisoner."

Before the former therion could say a word, she got hit on the back of her head from behind, by the hilt of Vernal's weapon knocking her unconscious.


Blake arrived at the meeting point. It was in the northeast corner of the Kuo Kuana district. It was dark, and it was empty. Not a single faunus on sight. Checking her surrounding the raven haired girl had a bad feeling about this. The setting was the perfect place for an ambush. But she wasn't giving up on Ilia, her friend. There was still goodness in her before she can change into someone different, and bad. She refused to see her become like Adam. Being positive and optimistic that the chameleon faunus wanted to talk to her because she has second thoughts of going through the White Fang's plans. Her friend needed her the most and she wasn't planning in letting her down. She already let her partner down but thanks to Sun, she understood the value of friendship. It was time to save her, just like the monkey faunus saved her. Her feline ears were on edge, thinking she wasn't alone.

"Ilia?"

"I'm here."

Blake has taken Gambol Shroud just in case this was a trap. As the girl emerged from the shadows, changing her skin to her normal color, she had her arms raised and she didn't had her weapon. Meaning, she really has come to talk. It made the amber eyed girl happy at the sight. But still, she wasn't letting her guard down yet.

"Ilia, I know you're scared, but you don't have to be. My family and I, we can keep you safe."

"I'm sorry."

"You can make it up to me by helping to stop Corsac and Fennec."

"No. I'm sorry" she repeated.

With her right hand closing it into a fist Blake was hit by someone from above as she let go of her weapon. It was Yuma, the bat faunus. He was accompanied by two faunus, a male and a female. Still, the raven haired girl was able to get up.

"Wait. Ah!" she was hit by something from behind, realizing it was spider web courtesy of the spider faunus Tarifa.

"I've got her."

"Well done, Sister Tarifa, and to you, Ilia" said Yuma as he threw the chameleon's faunus' weapon to her, she caught it.

"Ilia! What are you doing?" asked the shocked faunus.

"I tried to warn you, Blake. I'm sorry."

"Don't tell me you're sorry!"

"But I am. I am sorry it has to be this way. But you and your family are holding the faunus back."

"Because we're trying to protect people? I what world do you live in where attacking the innocent is the right thing to do?"

"The same one as you! There's no such thing as innocent. There's no right thing to do, only what's best for us. There's the humans that still hate the Faunus, and there's the others who stand by and let the hate happen! But you know what snaps out hate? Fear" she pointed her sword whip at her face" I don't like hurting people, but I'll tell you this: it's gotten us results."

"Yeah, look where it has gotten you" countered Blake.

"We all have to make sacrifices for the greater good. No matter how much it hurts."

"If you think killing me is really for the greater good?"

"No. But getting rid of your family is."

The raven haired girl was so shocked, so they were planning to have her parents killed after all.

"You wouldn't" she still refused to believe Ilia was willing to do such thing" you can't! I won't let you!"

"I know. That's why your being sent to Mistral. To Adam."

"Ilia, please! You don't have to do this. This isn't you!"

"Yes, it is. But I guess back then you were too busy falling for Adam to notice. I was always jealous of the way you looked at him. I wanted you to look at me that way" she blushed admitting her feelings for the cat faunus" but we can't always get what we want. Yuma, with me. You two, get her to the docks" Ilia left with the bat faunus.

"Let's go, traitor" Tarifa pulled her to get going.

"Now!"

"Huh?! What" the spider faunus was shocked as someone jumped on the male next to her.

Sun charged at her with his staff as she unleashed her knife. He easily blocked her attacks as she was spun around, and got punched by Blake.

"Thanks for the backup."

"Thanks for the invitation, you okay?"

"No, you heard Ilia, my family's in danger. Call the police and let's go."

"Looks like Sienna was right all along."

"Yeah" the cat faunus stood in thought as she ran with the monkey faunus following her.

Blake and Sun were about to leave. While the cat faunus was planning to meet up with Ilia. However, as they reached the front door of the household. Stood her parents and Sienna Khan.

"What's wrong?"

"Listen to what Sienna has to say" said Khali.

"I've been giving it a lot of thought. This whole idea of recruiting faunus for the cause of Haven Academy. It's not gonna settle well with the White Fang."

"We already knew that and we don't care" replied the monkey faunus.

"But you should. Because the Belladonna family is supporting this movement. You're obstacles in the White Fang's plans."

"What's your point Sienna?" asked Blake.

"My point, I think Adam will or have already ordered Corsac and Fennec to kill your parents. He will go that far to ensure no one gets in his way."

"I…." the amber eyed girl lowered her head" but Ilia wouldn't let that happen…."

"If she's with Adam, then you can forget about her. Ghira and Khali are currently targets to the White Fang."

"What about Blake?" Sun was worried.

"Doubt it. Adam would want me alive. But still I have to talk to Ilia. And meeting up with her. Sun, I might need your help."

"Got it."

"I will increase security around the house. Be careful" said Ghira.

"I'll be gladly waiting for them" Sienna readied her weapon.

"Come on, Mom pick up" Blake cursed receiving no answer, they were probably too late" let's hurry up!"


Vernal has tied up the unconscious Velvet with some rope. She already told Raven that wasn't going to hold her, since she was able to break free from the chains when she was taken captive. The tribe leader didn't had a problem telling her, she will play her part whether she likes it or not. She didn't had a better plan, this was the only way. But then again, the Crowe has proven to be unpredictable it will be a risk she will have to take and she didn't like taking them. Not waiting any longer the masked woman left her tent. Cinder was present as both women anticipated, the other two next to the amber eyed woman must be her followers. The dark skinned girl with mint green hair must be Emerald and the boy with gray haired Mercury. Raven was unfamiliar with the fourth member, the older man with the mustache. His attire definitely didn't fitted him with the rest.

"I don't recall inviting so many guests into our home. Either I'm losing my memory, or you've all lost your spines!"

"Don't be too upset with them, Raven. Your men simply recognize the power of a maiden when they see it" Cinder's visible eye burned with a yellow flame" which is why we'd like to have a word with you."

"Leave us. Pack your things, then break down the camp. We're moving" the tribe leader gave the order to her men.

If she was going with this plan. Everyone should leave and move out to the next secret meeting point. Everyone obeyed leaving while the four didn't seem to be bothered by the action.

"A little late to run and hide. You've been on our Master's list for quite some time, so you must understand that we cannot allow you to slip away" spoke Watts.

"I know all about your master, but I don't believe we've met" the masked woman climbed down the short stairs.

"We're the guys you should be afraid of" said Mercury.

"I doubt anyone should be afraid of you."

"Oh, yeah, tell that to-"

"Quiet" Cinder cut him off.

"That's what I thought."

"I'm Cinder Fall. This is my associate, Arthur Watts. And my disciples, Emerald and Mercury."

Raven had to smirked behind her mask. Velvet was right all along. Of course, she also expected the Fall Maiden to come here but the black haired woman got it right from the very start. It won't be so hard to convince them, now that she has the Crowe as her prisoner.

"Two children you've tricked into following you, a disgrace Altesian scientist, and a Fall Maiden with a surname so appropriate, she probably picked it herself. Something tells me you've got more than a slight case of egomania. Is that about right?" She will mocked them first, testing the limits of their patience that is if Cinder was as smart as Velvet claims her to be.

"Ahem. Uh, technically I was also a doctor, but I must say the rest was spot-on" said Watts.

"Aren't you perceptive?" said the amber eyed woman.

"It's what kept me alive" replied the masked woman.

"I'm afraid the only reason you're still alive is because you have something our master wants. Of course, if I'm wrong" the Maiden created a small fire ball on her hand.

Raven wasn't fazed by her display of power" Vernal!"

The young woman emerged from the tent climbing the stair meeting face to face with the Fall Maiden.

"So, this is the long-lost Spring Maiden. Prove it" Cinder didn't wasted time to know if she was indeed the one.

The woman turned to her leader as she nodded, giving her the signal. Vernal lifted her hands slowly, it started creating a large wind gust from all over the sky. It was blowing hard that Watts, Emerald and Mercury had to take cover, while Cinder seem pleased by the results. The plan was working so far. Her mask was the key. It wasn't just hiding her face, but also her eyes as they were glowing with the yellow flame of the Maiden. From the look of it, she has succeeded in convincing the Fall Maiden that her second in command was indeed Spring. Vernal lowered her hands as the wind gust stopped. A brilliant performance.

"Vernal has done well under my guidance. I'd take that into consideration before you try anything."

"Raven, I won't underestimate you, so please don't insult my intelligence."

The red eyed woman stood calm. Does that mean she was able to see through her deception. Was Velvet right that she was smarter than she looks. Yet, she stood her ground and was calm. This was the only plan, she should have come up with a back up, in case everything goes south. But If it does, she knew what to do. She will release Velvet, she and Vernal will be able to take down Cinder's disciple while she takes on the Fall Maiden. As for Watts, the man didn't looked like a fighter but she won't let appearances deceive her.

"There is a slim chance you and your Maiden could escape here today."

So she didn't suspected anything, that was very good. That means she has succeeded. Cinder truly believes Vernal is the Spring Maiden. The plan will resume as exactly as she planned.

"But if you know our master as well as you claim to, then you know you could never truly escape her. But we come bearing an olive branch."

"The Maidens are merely a means to an end" spoke Watts" Salem's true desires are the relics locked within the huntsmen academies. Come with us. Allow Vernal here to unlock the Relic of Knowledge and all previous acts of defiance against Salem will be forgiven. It's the best deal either of you are going to get."

"You talk as if walking straight to Haven will be easy" Raven pretended she didn't knew Lionheart wasn't a spy for Salem but at least part of her plan was working, she knew they will attempt to recruit her to join their group.

"That's because it will be" followed Cinder" Headmaster Lionheart is loyal to Salem now. All we need is the key to the vault. You're not the only one to turn your back on Oz, Raven."

As planned the masked pretended to be neutral in the situation by reaching to her sword" I'm not helping Salem. I'm not helping Oz. I don't want a part in any of this."

"That ship sailed when you chose to harbor a Maiden, but if you come with us to Haven, we'll leave you, your tribe, and your little secret to live out the rest of your days squabbling in the wilderness. We just need the relic."

Raven wanted to scoffed at that. Salem will never leave her alone, she knew they will be hunted down like animals whether she helps them or not. But, that's why she came up with her plan. Taking out Cinder will put a thorn in their plans. She originally wants Vernal to land the killing blow so she can have her powers. That way, Fall and Spring won't be on Salem's side. Two of the Four Maidens will not hand over the relics so easily.

"I need time to think this over."

"You don't have time. In two days, Haven Academy will be destroyed by the White Fang. You're going to choose now" said Watts.

"Backed me into a corner, huh?" honestly she wasn't expecting the faunus organization to be involved but then again, they were responsible for the Fall of Beacon.

"So, are you with us, or against us?" asked the Fall Maiden.

Still playing like she wasn't convinced the red eyed woman has finally removed her mask" agreements like these are built on trust, and forgive me for saying, but I don't trust a single one of you. You're going to need to give me more time."

"You are in a poor position to negotiate" said the former doctor and scientist."

"I want my brother dead."

"Qrow?" said Cinder while Emerald and Mercury were taken back by the sudden statement.

"That's right. He knows I have Spring, and if I help you get your relic, he's going to become a problem. I have enough problems to deal with. Qrow doesn't trust me, but he does trusts Ozpin's other lieutenants. If Leo is really loyal to you, then you can order him to invite Qrow right into an ambush. He arrives at Haven, we take him down, you get your relic, and we all leave happy."

"Now this is a proposition I can get behind" the Fall Maiden agreed.

"All right, ladies, let's pause for a moment" said Watts" we have one objective: retrieving the Relic of Knowledge. Now, Qrow Branwen may be on our list of individuals we would very much like dead, but he's not going to go down without a fight. And he's not going to fight quietly. Our advantage here is as just said. We walk straight into Haven. No resistance, no one the wiser. A battle with your brother throws that all out of the window."

"He's good, but not that good. All of us against him...It'll be over in a heartbeat" the tribe leader assured her brother will be outnumbered of course she knew he wasn't alone since he was accompanied by some of the students from Beacon including, her daughter."

"But it's not just him. He has the students with him, he has Ruby and Velvet's brother too" said Emerald.

"He certainly does" replied Cinder with a grin.

"If we leave that school a bloody mess, it will draw the attention of the authorities. The kingdom will be on high alert and the White Fang's attack will be ruined" warned the former doctor.

"Then we wait. We wait until the full moon. Leo invites Qrow and his little fighters to Haven the same night Hazel and Adam arrive with the White Fang. As soon as the battle is won, the White Fang demolishes Haven and any evidence we may have left behind is lost along with the school."

"Then Salem leaves my people for good" replied Raven, it has worked, they have bought it.

"You have yourself a deal" the Fall Maiden was pleased with the plan as she extended her hand to the tribe leader for a handshake.

"Wait" Watts stopped her making her glared at him" don't think I don't see what you're after. If this falls to pieces over your grudge with Velvet Crowe, I will not be taking the blame. Don't take your anger on her brother. Remember, Salem wants him and the girl with silver eyes alive."

"Then what are you worried about?" her visible eye burn with the yellow flame.

The man was burned slightly getting away from the amber eyed woman, not looking happy.

"Fly back home and tinker with your machines. And tell Salem she'll get what she wants. And more" Cinder extended her hand again.

Raven accepted the handshake with doubt in her mind. The planned went off smoothly without a hitch and that, has her worried. Cinder was convinced but, was she acting, pretending like she doesn't know of her intentions. That wasn't good, she only has one shot at this, if she fails, she will lose more than just her tribe, much more. Then, there was Velvet, her supposed trump card. If the Fall Maiden was truly convinced then she didn't needed her anymore. Also, if she reveals that the Crowe is here, there's no doubt the woman will lose it. She knew that it was Velvet who defeated her at Beacon almost to the point she could die, and as a result she ended up in a coma. Cinder was one to held a grudge like Watts pointed out. If she finds out she was here, she will ditch out the mission. But it was better to take her out herself. So many thoughts were running through her head. The plan might have gotten a bit complicated after all. And she didn't had time to ponder it over.

"It's a pleasure doing business with you Raven. Honestly, I don't want to have you as an enemy."

"Our goals are the same. I help you with your problem and you help me with mine. Vernal, show them to the guest tent and please, treat our new allies with a feast."

"Yes" the young woman nodded turning to the four" this way."

"I'll return to my tent and finish my preparations."

"I would like some tea before I head out. Do you have any honey flavor?" said Watts.

"We have all kinds of flavors."

"Marvelous" the man was pleased.

"The trip coming here, did made me hungry" said Mercury.

"Try not to eat everything on sight" Emerald sighed.

"Enjoy the feast you two. Once the time comes, there will be no turning back" Cinder grinned.

Raven made sure Vernal has taken them far away from her tent, to make sure she was alone. She went back to her tent and Velvet was still present, tied up but awake. And she didn't looked in the least happy. She signaled to the Crowe to keep her voice down.

"I will take you heard everything?"

"I did, I wasn't unconscious for that long and your insane. Putting Qrow and everyone in danger like that is beyond reckless. Including, my brother and your daughter."

"They need to be present in order to buy time for the authorities to come and apprehend the White Fang before they get their chance to destroy the school. At the same time, they will also be buying me time to get to the Vault and strike down Cinder."

"You didn't let her see me. I thought I will be your prisoner to convince her where your loyalties lie."

"She seems convinced enough and it leaves me with a bad feeling."

"Using your mask to covered your face while doing that little display of Maiden power was a good idea. Emerald, Mercury and that Watts guy are convinced enough of Vernal being the Spring Maiden. But I don't know about Cinder. I told you she's smarter than she looks."

"I agree. It was so easy to convinced her that I'm with Salem now. It doesn't matter, the plan is in motion and all we have to do is wait for the full moon."

"Are you going to keep me prisoner?"

"No. That part of the plan has changed."

"Good" Velvet easily broke through the rope" Vernal did a bad job tying the knots. I doubt you would have been able convince them, you have me held captive. Cinder wouldn't have buy it."

"I'm sending you to Qrow. The more people are present during the ambush, the more time it will buy for both parties" the red eyed woman unsheathed her sword ready to use her semblance.

"Sorry Raven. But I have decided to make some changes of my own in your plan. Your planning to use your semblance to send them to Qrow's location. That's fine by me. But Cinder isn't leaving this place. She's staying, and so am I."

"You want to settle the score with her?"

"This is more than just settling a score. Cinder can't reach the Vault no matter what. If she takes the relic, it's over. I will be waiting when you open the portal. Make sure everyone goes in and leave her for last. Then, close it immediately."

"This complicates the situation even further. If her disciples realize she isn't with them, they will immediately suspect I'm a traitor. Vernal will have a hard time getting to the Vault."

"Your supposed to be the only one who can open the door where the relic is. Convince Lionheart you're on Salem's side so he can open the way to the Vault. If you were able to convinced Cinder then this will be no hard task."

"I will be expose and so will Vernal. And I don't have the luxury to think this over."

"Just finish your preparations. What matters, we can't let Cinder get to the relic. Salem can't have it. On that, we both agree."

"Indeed" Raven nodded" this has become quite a twist on my plan."

"It's a gamble. But one, we'll have to take."


To be continued

-Boy oh boy so Velvet wants to prevent Cinder from going to Haven. Things are going to be interesting now.

-I think it was cute for Laphicet to be there for Yang when she was talking to Weiss.

-Bet you folks weren't expecting Weiss to be teaching Laphicet how to use his weapon. She's his new teacher.

Replying to reviews and PM's:

*CT7567Rules- the Apathy are truly the scariest of the Grimm so far. And I agree I think they're ability to steal people's will must have a distance limit. If someone is far away from them and using a long range weapon like Coco's mini gun then they'll be screw. As for Sienna joining Velvet and the group after volume 5, I don't know. I think each character has their own path in the story to take.

*The Emerald Mage- all I can say that the shit is going to be real in the coming chapters and the events of the volume of the Haven fight are going to be very different. And yeah like I said I loved the episode so much RT finally giving more background to Jaune when it comes to his family. I also can't wait for Velvet to meet his oldest sister, there's going to be a lot of teasing to her little brother lol. I never get tire of thanking you for your continuing love and support for the story.

*Shadow Joestar- in a way Velvet is helping Jaune and the group more than Raven. Knowing the kind of person she is. But like she said in this chapter, she and Raven don't want the relic to fall on Salem's hands.

*magicdft sorry if you feel that way I understand about the bad grammar. I have already said why I'm not interested in having a Beta anymore.

*SuperSonic2018- thank you always happy to know you're liking the story.

*Andromeda- happy to hear from you after a long time. But I'm happy you're also reading this story.

*Reversentai- I don't understand, how exactly have I downgraded Velvet? You obviously haven't read the entire story. If you don't want to read it that's fine by me. But please, explain to me how I downgraded her character? This story is about her getting a second chance redeeming herself for her past actions through her journey on this story. Or do you believe that no one deserves a second chance and they should be damned or plagued with guilt for the mistakes they committed for rest of their lives? Through the whole game Velvet has shown that's she truly a good person at heart but she understands very well that living her life only for the purpose of revenge is wrong and because of it, she believes she doesn't deserve to live. That's why she chose to sacrificed herself for everyone as an atonement or penance for her mistakes. In my opinion what Artorius and the Abbey did on the world is far worse than what she did.

*Andromeda- I don't blame Jaune for acting like that. The guy lost his partner and he's being putting his life on the line along his teammates and friends, and for what, for nothing? Because Ozpin doesn't know what to do about Salem, he has no plan, no endgame. Now that he knows the truth it's obvious he will get upset just like Ren and Nora did. Everyone, including Qrow has put their trust in him only to came back empty handed. They don't know what to do now even Ruby is having a tough time coming up to terms with it and she's the positive spirit of the group. The problem is Jaune took his anger on the wrong person. Oscar didn't deserved that but I'm sure Jaune will apologize to him, if they do manage to find him. I'm sure in the next episode he will be blaming himself for him running away. And speaking of being upset with Jaune so many fans on youtube are so pissed at him. So it's okay for Yang, Blake, Weiss and Qrow to snapped at Ozpin after finding out the truth but it's so wrong for Jaune to pinned Oscar to a wall? Qrow punched him and that was okay but what the Arc did is unforgivable. Stupid haters they make me so mad.

SPOILER ALERT for volume 6 episode 8 I am most happy for this episode because we finally get more inside of the silver eye warriors. The big revelation that they're basically descendants of the God of Light which explains why their power can destroy Grimm. Light destroys Darkness, it has a very Kingdom Hearts feel to it. We learned of Maria's semblance of "future sight" anticipating movements before they can happen. Also we all knew Jaune, Ren and Nora weren't going to be happy finding out Ozpin doesn't have a plan to beat Salem. Especially the Arc, finding out everything they've been through has been for nothing, Pyrrha's death was for nothing. I seems that Salem is the one behind the extinction of the silver eyes warriors because of their connection to the God of Light but what does she want with Ruby. Finally I was disappointed with the commander in charge of the Mistral/Atlas border base, I was expecting to see Winter again but it's just some old hag and just like Maria was going to finish her sentence before Ruby interrupted her. She has a stick right up her ass. I love the scenery where Ruby and Maria were talking, those butterflies are cute and she hitting Ruby on the head with her cane lol they're using the Yoda/Luke parallel, it put a smile on my face. At the end of the episode Oscar running away and I don't blame him. He probably think everything is his fault, shouldering Ozpin's burden. EDIT the hiatus is on the 29th so on episode 9 will be release on the 22th.

-As always thank you very much for all the favs, follows and reviews (we've reached over 400 thank you) I really appreciate it.

Next time: True Colors