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 54 True Colors
(Location: Belladonna Residence Kuo Kuana District Menagerie Island southeast of Remnant)
The scroll kept ringing, and ringing, and ringing. It stood on a small table and still ringing. The screen was showing the message" Blake calling" with her picture. Nobody wasn't going to picked it up because the air around the house was being filled with gunshots, from all directions. One of the guards of the Menagerie police has flipped the table to give him cover along with Khali. They were being attacked by heavy fire from the White Fang. The Belladonna knew this was going to happen, thanks to Sienna Khan that warned them of the coming attack. The faunus guard told her to get down. There were two faunus member firing at them but, three more showed up increasing their fire power. They were outnumbered while the woman was worried about her husband and daughter. She really hoped she wasn't captured, Sun accompanied so she believed in the monkey faunus.
Khali cursed mentally, she was expecting this and yet, she forgot to bring her weapon. It was that clear the White Fang had no intention to talk. They have truly came here to kill her and Ghira. Just like Sienna said, they were in the way of Adam's plans so he wanted to get rid of them. The female Belladonna wasn't scared in the least, she used to be with the White Fang and she was an experienced fighter. But without her weapon, she won't be able to defend herself. The table was getting hit by the fire weapons. It wasn't going to hold on for too long. The other guards must be busy dealing with other White Fang's in different parts of the large house. The well being of her family was all that matters. The black cat took cover as the table's right side was blasted, leaving a few holes. Their cover was going to be demolished soon. The rabbit faunus guard got hit in the shoulder, dropping his weapon, Khali didn't thought twice picking the gun and firing back.
"Get out of my house! Ghira?!"
Ghira was currently at the hallway of the front door. He was surrounded by White Fang members. The whole household was probably filled with them by now. How did it all became to this. Even when he increased the security, the faunus group managed to break through and attacked. They have waited a long time for this moment, so it was that obvious they have prepared themselves. The chieftain was so worried for his wife and daughter. Khali was probably being protected but he didn't know how long that will last. White Fang numbers were more than the Menagerie police. As for Blake, she still hasn't returned. He hoped everything went all right and she didn't got captured. At leas that monkey idiot Sun will be of some use, helping her. The man punched two members, grabbed the kick of another and slammed him to a wall. Thankfully their numbers were decreasing.
"Go find my wife!"
The guard was about to leave, fulfilling the request of the chief faunus. But he got shot dead. Ghira caught him, but it was too late to save him. His eyes narrowed seeing new people arriving and the one responsible for shooting the officer. It was Fennec pointing his short sword that fires dust rounds. Corsac also has the same weapon. It was obvious since both are brothers. The head of the Belladonna family wasn't happy. They have the guts to come to his house, attacked him and put his entire family in danger. They weren't going to get away with this. It was making his blood boil from the sudden surge of anger.
"I believe it's time our dear chieftain step down, brother" said Corsac.
"Yes, brother. I'm afraid I'm inclined to agree."
So much anger filled Ghira as he unleashed his faunus claws and tore down his coat, revealing his bare chest. He let out a huge feral roar, like a lion going on a rampage over a herd of prey. The blood was going to run tonight and even heads will roll. One thing is to assault him, but assault his own family. That was crossing the line and Corsac and Fennec were going to pay the prize for messing with the Belladonnas. For his wife and daughter, he was willing to put his life on the line. More White Fang members arrived attacking the chieftain, he jumped from all directions, countering and throwing them. One of the faunus he threw hit Fennec while grabbing a spear. Ghira threw the spear just as Corsac fired his weapon. It hit the head Belladonna while the spear hit part of the fox faunus clothing, pining him to a wall. It wasn't that long before the other fox got up checking in on the situation.
"Brother!"
The blast didn't hurt the chieftain that much thanks to his aura, as he was more than ready to take on the brothers. Fennec fired a wind wave from his weapon, trying to blow him off. Ghira wasn't paying attention behind him. A White Fang was hiding behind a pillar but before he got the chance to fire his rifle, he was tackled down by Sun. Corsac freed himself as both joined forces firing a combination of wind and fire at the head Belladonna. But the monkey faunus used his staff spinning it rapidly to blocked the dust attack. This was the perfect chance as he stared up.
"Hurry!"
From above Blake jumped down getting between the two foxes. Before they could attack, she used her semblance combined with ice dust, creating an ice clone. Corsac and Fennec got stuck in the ice sculpture.
"Dad, where's mom?!" the cat faunus walked over to her father.
"I'm not sure, I got ambushed right away."
"Once we take down Corsac and Fennec-"
"No, go now" the chieftain cut her off.
"But-"
"You keep assuring me your friend isn't a complete waste of space. Let's see him prove it!"
"We got this, Blake. I've wanted to sock this creeps ever since the day we met" said the monkey faunus.
"You'll have to get in line. Blake, go!" said Ghira.
The raven haired girl finally obeyed as she entered the doors, entering the house. By now, the fox brother have gotten free from the ice clone. They were now facing the former White Fang leader and a very determined Sun.
"I won't let you down, sir!"
"Shut up."
"You got it!" both charged at the two.
Velvet stood inside of Raven's tent along with the red eyed woman. She knew waiting was going to be a big factor in order for her plan to worked. They were currently waiting for Vernal to return from scouting. The tribe leader has ordered her to follow Cinder and her group, after eating and drinking. The older Crowe didn't like it. It was too risky of a move. If she gets spotted, it will be over. They will immediately suspect something and the plan will be thrown out of the window. It worried her too much and apparently, she wasn't the only one. Raven seemed to be in the same position as she stood seated on her bed looking in concern. Maybe it wasn't just that, but her whole plan. To go through betrayal of her own family, making them believe she has sided with Salem. She put up a strong face when she told the former daemon but on the inside, it was really bothering her. Deep down she cares for her brother and daughter. The former therion knew she wasn't going to kill Qrow, it was part of her deception.
The waiting was killing her, so much was at stake. Velvet was hoping the Branwen and everyone will be ready for the storm to come. Finding out the White Fang was planning to destroy Haven, didn't helped either. It was no surprise since they were responsible for the destruction of Beacon and Amity Arena. Now, they have their sights on the huntsman school of Mistral. Adam Taurus was truly made, it made the black haired woman felt more sorry for Blake who used to be close to him. They have a chance to prevent this attack from happening. A chance to stop another fall like Beacon and with it, many casualties. Keeping Cinder away from the Vault was her best bet of success. Once she sees her, awake and back on her feet, she will forget about their plans. Without the Fall Maiden in the front lines, they will have better chances at saving the school and the relic.
"Qrow doesn't know you're the Spring Maiden, same goes to Yang and her father?"
"Why ask questions when you already know the answer?"
"She seems to scare you" the former daemon brought another topic.
"Cinder may be a Maiden. But if we fight, we might be on the same level. Still, I can find a way to beat her."
"I wasn't talking about Cinder" her comment made the red eyed woman to gazed at her" Salem. The way you talked about her, that she can't be stopped. You really believe that?"
"It's true. She's that powerful and if Ozpin hasn't stopped her years ago then there's nothing any of us can do."
"So after this is over, you're planning to run away and hide again?"
"The survival of my tribe comes first above all. That is why we must change locations immediately."
"If you're planning to take the Relic of Knowledge for yourself. Don't you think you'll be only provoking Salem further? She'll come after you even more."
"I've been her target for a long time and I have managed to survive all this time. Having the relic, won't make a difference."
"This time, it will be different. Having the relic, she will do anything to hunt you down. If you truly want to protect your tribe from danger, then I suggest you leave it behind."
"And who should take it? Ozpin? Qrow?"
"Salem only wants the relics. If you have one, she will go the lengths to find it. She's not going to stop, you and your tribe will forever be in danger. If you're that afraid of her, then leave it to someone who's willing to keep it safe and face her."
"Like you?" Raven got up from her bed walking towards her" you think you have what it takes to protect the relic? You think you can stop Salem?"
"Maybe. I've shared my fights with Gods, it wasn't easy but I managed to win. I wasn't alone, I had friends who were willing to put their lives at risk for the sake of doing what we thought was right. I admit, I've done many mistakes and horrible things in my world. All I can do now is protect those close to me if that's what it takes to redeem my past actions. And for them, I'm willing to do anything in this world too, I also have friends here. Call it corny, call it cheesy, I don't care. But I'm not facing Salem alone. I'm not planning to run away."
"You are a bigger fool than I thought. The same kind of fool Qrow is for following Ozpin so blindly. And even my daughter."
"If you choose to be afraid and hide, that's your call. But not everyone, thinks like you."
"You will, once you see what Salem is capable of. When you do, come back and tell me all about it. We'll see if you're still interested in facing her."
"It's ironic. You killed the last Spring Maiden because she was weak, afraid and didn't wanted to uphold her duty. But you...You're no better than her."
Raven glared at the long black haired woman" the first time you spoke out of bounds, I chose to let it slide. There won't be a second time Velvet. Don't forget you're still in my tribe and I'm in charge."
"You don't seem to get it. You ARE the Spring Maiden, stronger than any experienced Huntsmen or Huntress. You have great powers, you can use magic. And instead of using it to fight the evil that is hunting you down. You want to waste it by hiding away like a coward? How is that any different from that girl you killed to take her powers? Ask yourself, what was the reason you took her powers in the first place?"
"To survive!" she suddenly snapped" I did it, to keep myself alive and those around me. My tribe and even my family. I know the burden of being a Maiden. It's not all fame and glory with the powers you have. One must fight to protect themselves. It doesn't matter to Salem whether Vernal or me is the Spring Maiden, she will eventually come after us. And even if I do choose to help her people for real, she will still come after me. They will never stop coming after my tribe. You should know by now, someone like Cinder Fall never keeps her word."
"I won't convince you otherwise. If you want to run and hide, be my guess. But I'd rather stay and fight than being a coward. And I don't care how impossible the odds are. It's better to do something about it, than nothing at all. If I die fighting, it's a whole lot better than dying from hiding. You do what you think is right. But know this Raven, you're not really protecting your family or your tribe, you're only protecting yourself because you're so scare of Salem, you're willing to put all of them in danger rather than to fight for them."
"…."
At that moment Vernal arrived at the tent.
"Yes, Vernal?" the red eyed woman rubbed her forehead.
"I followed them as you asked."
"Did they spot you?"
"Of course not. They have a ship two klicks west of here. Looks like they're staying there for the night."
Velvet stood in thought at the piece of information. After taking care of Cinder, she might use that ship to go to Mistral. But wait, didn't that man Watts was planning to stay behind. He must have been given other orders from infiltrating Haven. Looks like she will have to figure out how to join the others another way. Raven's semblance could be the only way.
"Thank you Vernal. Anything else?"
"Do you believe they'll let us go once they have the relic?" the young woman said looking worried.
At this, the older Crowe scoffed while the tribe leader ignored her.
"Of course not. They'll never leave us alone. Once our purpose has come and gone, we'll be discarded. Salem uses people until they're no longer useful."
"You already know that. And yet, you still choose to run and hide" said the former daemon.
"You better watch your tone around her" Vernal glared.
"It's all right, I've gotten used to her disobedience. If we want to have any chance of defending ourselves against her, then we need this relic."
"But you don't want to fight. And you want to keep the relic. I told you, having it will only make you a bigger target for Salem. You'll only be putting your people into greater danger. And you clearly told me you don't want that. You want to stay hidden and safe."
"I'd rather have it, then let Ozpin or Salem take it."
"Right now, I'd rather take it for myself. Because at least, I know what to do if Salem's people come after me. But, if I have to choose between you and Ozpin. I will go with him, I trust him more than you."
"Then you're a fool for trusting him, just like Qrow. If my brother and those brats want to follow him, then let them."
"One of those brats being your own daughter" muttered Velvet.
"When the chaos reaches it's peak, we'll grab the relic and make our escape."
"How about if I repeat myself according to your new plan?" the former therion was irritated by the red eyed woman's attitude" because you will be at Haven, Vernal will have to be the one to make sure Cinder is the last one to go into your portal. Before she gets the chance to enter I will stop her. Make sure, to close it. I will take care of the rest. Meanwhile, you will tell Lionheart to take you to the Vault, that you're under Salem's orders. Qrow and the others present will keep Emerald and Mercury busy to try and stop you. And since I know you want to keep your Maiden identity a secret, you and Vernal will be the ones to head to the Vault. Open the door, take the relic and return here. Hopefully, I'll be done with Cinder by the time you come back. Do you agree with this plan?"
Raven stood silent but she nodded though, she would prefer to the Fall Maiden on herself, but this was a good plan. The older Crowe reached for her hand, and the tribe leader took it in a handshake, making their agreement official.
"I must be heading out. This path won't be easy for us either, but we must do what's right for the tribe."
Velvet wanted to disagree on that. It's doing what is right for once family that matters the most. But she chose not say anything.
"I know, I'll do whatever it takes" replied Vernal.
"Good" she left the tent and changed into her bird form flying away.
"Time to wait some more" the black haired woman got seated on the ground.
"Do you think you can keep the relic safe?" it was a surprise the young woman talked to her.
"I will do anything to keep it safe. But your leader doesn't seem to understand the danger she'll be getting herself into if she takes the relic for herself. She's very stubborn, worse than her daughter."
"She may not be here anymore. But I won't allow you to keep disrespecting her."
"You're very loyal to Raven. So I won't convince you of her wrongs. Just know none of you will be safe as long as you have the relic. You're better off being empty handed, as it is."
"…."
"I'm going to guess she left to talk to Lionheart and convince him she's on Salem's side, beforehand. Smart move" complimented the older Crowe.
"The boss knows what she's doing. She might be afraid of Salem, but she's smart. She knows how to survive and the means necessary to do to achieve it."
"She is. But she's using her smarts for the wrong reasons. You don't run and hide from an enemy that will constantly hunt you down no matter where you go. It's not smart, it's only prolonging the inevitable. Soon, she will realize she will have no choice but to fight to survive."
Vernal stood silent, in secrecy she did agreed with Velvet. Maybe they do have something in common after all.
Sienna Khan knew of the White Fang's attack over the Belladonna household. It was very predictable when she think like Adam. As power hungry and insane as he has become, his way of thinking was that obvious. The family chieftain was nothing but a nuisance that had intentions of stopping the attack of Haven Academy. While the new leader of the faunus group wanted to destroy it for purposes, she still didn't understood. The tigress never knew who was these people he was working for. Whoever they are, they were bad people. So the former High Leader prepared herself. But the attack was too sudden even when Ghira increased security. Too many faunus entered the faunus with fire weapons, among others. Sienna guessed Corsac and Fennec must have brought the entire Menagerie branch with them. A grin formed her lips, let them come, she wasn't going to hold back on those that used to take orders from her.
And just like that, she was surrounded. Some were shocked to see her here. But they have received the orders from Adam to kill her if they see her. Kill on sight as stated by the new High Leader. The tigress ran off while dodging heavy fire. It will looked like a cowards move, but she has planned a strategy. The hallway was too small to fight, so she was going to need space. She has led them to the dojo area of the large house. Sienna draw her whip chain, changing the tip to thunder dust. As the masked faunus arrived she attacked, like a hunter taking down her prey. First, she removed all of their rifles along with other weapons like swords, spears and axes. Once they were weaponless, she leap before them kicking and using her weapon. Poor bastards didn't stood a chance. They were taking on the former High Leader of the White Fang. She was more experienced and a real force to reckon with.
The tigress didn't broke a sweat, so many rookies not worth of her time. Sienna turned to the entrance, more masked faunus arrived. There was no mercy in her yellow eyes as she readied her weapon once more. With a long thrown she took down four members. One charged at her with a spear and she jumped using her chain whip to removed the weapon from the faunus. The former High Leader signaled them to come and beat her, if they could. She could see it in their eyes, behind their mask, they were growing desperate. And she attacked without anything holding her back. If they taking orders from the fox brothers, who supports Adam, they were their enemy. She took them all down, seconds later. She didn't killed them of course, they were still her people and her kind. It will go against her belief to take the life of a faunus. Except, the one who tried to have her killed, overthrowing her. After she was done, she left to find any members of the Belladonna family.
Blake was running the hallways worried sick. She was hoping her mother was all right. The cat faunus could hearing the gun fire and grunts all over the house. At least she knew her father was going to be fine with Sun backing him up. Another thing that was troubling the raven haired girl was Ilia. She didn't wanted to do this, she couldn't even fight her. But now, if she was here then she will be left with no choice. Blake wasn't giving up on her yet. She could see the goodness in her, reminder her of herself before realizing what she was doing in the White Fang was wrong. It wasn't too late to reach out to her and convince her, to do the right thing. Reaching a long, wide hallway he saw her standing at the railing of the second floor. The chameleon faunus wearing her mask, with her weapon. There was a moment of silence between the two, as their eyes met. If she has to fight her friend to open her eyes, then so beat it.
Ilia reached out to her weapon on her back and Blake did the same. There was a pause. The time for talking was over neither, would say a word. The cat faunus needed to stop her and the rest of the White Fang from this assault. Her parents' lives are on the line. To think all this time, she was going to be led to this moment. When she fights her good friend. And after the chameleon faunus admitted having feelings for her that goes beyond friendship, it made her feel bad for her. She care for her but, not in that way. Eyes narrowed as they unsheathed their weapons. Ilia jumped with an attack, unleashing her whip and Blake dodged using a clone. She charged as both faunus were crossing weapons. The raven haired girl could see it in her eyes, behind her mask, she really didn't wanted to do this. This was a sign that can convince her, bring her friend back.
Laphicet followed every instruction by Weiss as he hold his weapon in the right position. The white haired girl gave him a long lecture to how to handle a rapier and to have the perfect posture. The young Crowe was happy and comfortable having her as his teacher than Ozpin. She was more natural and surprisingly, she wasn't that strict. Maybe because he was doing well, for now. He thought it was going to be very hard, but he was wrong. It wasn't complicated or easy, it felt so normal to him. It could be that Weiss was that good of a teacher. It made the teen think, her training must have been a whole lot worse and way strict. So the former heiress learned the hard way and she knew what not to do. It did took her by surprise when he asked her to teach him. She was flattered, that's why she was trying hard to set a good example as a teacher. Not wanting to screw up, this was her first time after all.
"Keep your right foot on the front, but not too far. Remember, to always keep a straight pose when holding your weapon. Like your one with it, it is an extension of yourself."
"Okay" he smiled doing exactly as she told him, imitating her pose.
"That's good. You're a quick learner. It took me time to get use to the fighting style. Hours, day, weeks, months...It was hard training."
"You're doing amazing Weiss. I'm happy I asked you to train me. I want to be good using my weapon, so I can be of big help during a fight."
"Well, flattery isn't going to get you nowhere" that's what she said, but her face was growing red from embarrassment.
"I don't even understand why Yang calls you" ice queen". You're really a nice person."
"That makes two of us. I suppose that's her way of being" Yang"" her comment made the boy laughed.
Suddenly Laphi tripped on the next move but the white haired girl, caught him on time. He blushed suddenly from the close contact. And now that he was taking a better look at Weiss, she was very beautiful. He blushed again while he could smell her scent. The lovely scent of her hair was incredible. It was impossible to think that she was still single and not a single boy has asked her out. Well, except for Neptune but he was a womanizer, always flirting with any girls he sees. But has anyone actually taken her seriously to have her in a relationship. The former heiress smiled at him, making him blushed for the third time, this was so embarrassing as she helped him on his feet. Her hands were so soft and warm for someone who has lived in a cold place like Atlas. The young Crowe controlled himself smiling back at the girl.
"Sorry. I didn't mean to be clumsy."
"Accidents can happen especially, in training. You've done well so far learning the basics. In no time, we might have to proceed with more advance lessons."
"I would like to continue with the basics. I don't think I'm ready for the advance stuff" he blushed slightly.
"You keep this up, we'll be going to advance in no time" she smiled.
They didn't noticed they were being watched from afar. Ruby stood still watching the two. She was very happy Weiss agreed to teach Laphicet how to use his weird-looking sword. The petite hasn't said that because she was afraid to hurt the boy's feelings. She was about to tell them the good news but, something was stopping her. The red cloak girl didn't know why she was standing still. The way her partner smiled at Laphi and when he almost tripped, she caught him, their bodies were a little bit too close for comfort. She was happy but she couldn't tell what was wrong with her. It wasn't normal to feel this way. The silver eyed reaper snapped out of it, getting back to her senses. That was pretty weird, it has never happened to her before. Maybe she should talk it with Yang, nah she'll be fine. So the petite got back to normal running to the two.
"Guys! Great news! Uncle Qrow just told me that Professor Lionheart is done talking to the council and it's all cool. He wants to see us tomorrow night to head out for Yang's mom tribe."
"Those are great news" the young Crowe smiled.
"I'd say it's about time" followed Weiss.
Khali was still in a tight spot. She was cornered by many White Fang members firing their rifles. At least more police guards arrived to protect her but, it was only two of them. Just how many of them are there. The cat woman kept on firing from the gun she took from the wounded guard. That is, until it ran out of ammo. She gazed around for anything she can use for a weapon. A tray, it will have to do. She grabbed it, blocking rounds with it. The doors behind opened, the Belladonna gasped thinking reinforcements have come. But she was wrong, she quickly changed her expression to a smile seeing Sienna Khan. The White Fang members saw her and gasped, changing their focus to the former High Leader. With some quick movements of her whip chain, she removed their weapons giving the guards time to open fire at them. Along with Khali using her deadly tray, they managed to beat them all.
"Sienna, right on time. We could have been in serious trouble if you haven't shown up."
"Do not let your guard down yet. More are bound to come. And Khali" the tigress threw her something" it's more reliable than that tray."
The cat woman smiled as she was holding onto her weapon. A pair of steel claws, resembling those of a cat. The woman has grinned putting them on, now she was ready. With Sienna Khan by her side, both ladies charged at the coming masked faunus. The guards present were shocked at the sight. Both were basically beating the crap out of them making an awesome butt kicking team. Between Khali's hand-to-hand combat skill and the tigress's moves with her whip chain, every single one was taken down in a matter of seconds. The police was still shocked, thinking why were they here again. They made sure that more of them weren't going to pop up suddenly, but it seems the area was clear, for now.
"That takes care of this section" said the former High Leader.
"I forgot how exciting this can be. I should fight more" the Belladonna smiled turning to her tigress partner" YES!"
She unexpectedly gave her a high five which caught her off guard, she yelped" Khali watch those claws!"
"Sorry" she gave an innocent smile.
"Look out!" said a female guard.
Sienna looked above seeing the bat faunus about to attacked. She dodged and quickly used her weapon to wrapped his entire body.
"Damn" he cursed" to think you've been here all along."
"Yuma" Sienna recognized him" how can you stand so low to attempt to murder your own kind?"
"It is the will of the New High Leader, traitor."
"I don't know what kind of bull crap lie Adam has tell you. And I don't care. You, Corsac, Fennec and everyone are all blinded by his ambitions" she punched the bat faunus knocking him out.
"Are you all right?" asked Khali.
"I will once we have taken care of Corsac and Fennec."
"Did you come here to hide?" asked Blake as she was still crossing weapons with Ilia.
"I told you, I didn't want this."
"But you're still here!" she argued.
"I don't have a choice!"
"Of course you do! Just stay out of my way."
The chameleon faunus attacked but all she hit was a clone. The cat faunus was now, next to her. She kept using her whip destroying chair and other things that were in the way. Blake kept on dodging and blocking, she used the ribbon to tied trapped her arm and bring her towards her. Kicking her. She quickly got up and they were once again crossing weapons.
"Why do you feel like we have to hurt people to get our way?!"
"Because it works!"
"That doesn't make it right!"
Ilia used the lightning dust on her weapon shocking Blake, she threw Gambol Shroud in the process while her mask fell off, but she didn't care. She kicked the cat faunus as she regained her balance, dodging the whip while using her semblance.
"Stop lecturing me!" the chameleon faunus was so angry.
The raven haired faunus saw her weapon not too far, she needed to get it. But things got complicated when Ilia turned off the lights in the room. Now she was fighting a battle in the dark. As a faunus, she could see in the dark, the same with her opponent. The amber eyed girl took her chance to run and grabbed her weapon. She was having trouble seeing the chameleon faunus, she was obviously using her semblance to camouflage herself and blend in with her surroundings. Seeing in the dark was one thing, but spot a chameleon in hiding was another. Blake watched her surroundings, but she couldn't see the whip heading her way. It hit her but again, she regained her balance and changed Gambol Shroud to gun mode firing at the faunus, dodging the fire.
"Why couldn't you just leave?!"
"Because I ran way too much" she changed her weapon to katana mode.
She dodged more of the lightning whip's attacks as she went to a corner. Blake checked her rounds and she had some fire dust. The cat faunus had a crazy idea but it will help against Ilia's camouflage.
"Sorry dad."
She fired on the third floor of the house creating a fire that was spreading fast. It helped as the illumination from the fire was able to revealed Ilia's position. The chameleon changed back to her original color, her semblance wasn't going to work anymore. She charged at the cat faunus using her whip while she blocked and dodged. She changed her weapon back to gun mode firing from a distance. But Ilia knew something was wrong with Blake since the start of their fight, she was holding back. It angered her that she wasn't taking her seriously.
"Quit taking pot shots and fight me like you mean it!"
The last whip attack made the raven haired girl to jumped all the way to the second floor. She crouched on the wooden railing while the fire was still spreading.
"You used to see things the way I did! The way Adam did! If no one's going to do anything to stop the humans that attack us, then the only choice we have left...Is to attack back!"
The amber eyed girl changed her clip from fire dust to ice and fire a couple of shots. Ilia blocked them with her weapon only it was a mistake. Taking a looking at her whip blade it was frozen, she won't be able to use it properly now. Until the ice melts. Blake used her ribbon in sickle mode removing her weapon. She jumped at the chameleon faunus until she was on top of her, meeting the girl face to face. Ilia didn't wanted to blush at the contact because the situation was serious.
"You're wrong. There's always another choice" she struggle with her" Ilia...Please. You're a good person but you're making all the wrong decisions!"
"SHUT UP!"
"Is this really want your parents would've wanted?!"
"I don't know what else to do!" she teared up breaking out of her shell" I don't know what else to do…."
The wall behind Blake suddenly shattered as one of the fox brothers was sent to the ground. Ghira was panting, not expecting Corsac and Fennec would put up a fight.
"Blake!" he gasped seeing her daughter dealing with another White Fang member.
Letting his guard down he was stabbed in the back by another of the fox brothers.
"Dad!" the girl lowered her guard too as Ilia kicked her.
The chieftain threw Fennec off of him as Corsac charged and both faunus were now fighting with their fists. The downed fox recovered taking both sai's ready to aid his brother when both weapons were suddenly taken away by a whip chain. Ghira punched the fox faunus sending him next to his brother Fennec. As they recovered they saw the other person that has arrived in shock.
"Sienna Khan…."
"You two are so predictable. I knew you were planning to kill Ghira and Khali. Sometimes, you have to think like a mad man. Adam is no better."
"Brother, kill her. I'll handle Ghira" said Corsac.
"Ilia!" Fennec was dodging attacks from the former High Leader" what are you doing?! Fight!"
The chameleon faunus stood in thought, not knowing what to do. The words she said to Blake were being repeated in her head. She didn't know what else to do. Sun arrived helping the cat faunus on her feet while Ghira told him to help his daughter. He took his staff going after Ilia. She defended herself against the monkey faunus. At this rate, she had no idea what she was doing. Or what was she doing here, or even why. She was having trouble blocking his attacks until, the ice on her weapon melted away thanks to the fire. Still, Sun was skilled and sent her to a pillar as both were struggling.
"Stop!" called Blake as she teared up" please…."
Ilia got away as she made Sun hit the pillar with his weapon. Due to the fire, the material has grown weak. It was about to collapse on the chameleon faunus. Just when she thought it was over, that she was going to die today, here. The girl was shocked to see Ghira Belladonna using his strength to hold down the broken part of the second floor. Sienna was done with the brothers as she went and took the girl away from harm, saving her life too. Sun used his clones to help the chieftain to throw away the piece of rubble. Fennec was slowly getting up seeing that his brother was still unconscious he took the two sai's and charged at the head of the Belladonna family.
"Ghira look out!" shouted Sienna.
Blake used the ribbon of her sickle to pulled her father out of there. But Fennec has fell in as the rubble fell on him and an explosion followed, killing the faunus. Suddenly the doors opened revealing Khali throwing the downed Yuma.
"Mom!" the cat faunus running to the woman and hugging her, happy that she was safe.
"What have you done?!" shouted Corsac in anger" you ruined everything! EVERYTHING!"
"It's over Corsac. You have lost. Now surrender or you might end up like your brother" said Sienna Khan.
He was about to charged of them when he got electrocuted thanks to Ilia's weapon. The chameleon faunus was in tears, falling to her knees. The fire continued to burn as it spread more.
The Menagerie fire fighters arrived earlier to put out the fire over the Belladonna household. A large crowd has formed in front of the house after seeing the fire. They were all shocked the house where their chieftain lives was on fire. They were all fearing for his life and his family. More police guards arrived trying to keep the situation under control, telling the people to stay back. It wasn't that long that Ghira emerged carrying an unconscious Corsac and a White Fang member, probably the only one that survived the attack. More guards emerged along with his family, Sun, Ilia and Sienna.
"Get in there! Search for any stragglers!" said the one in charge of the police with a large scar on the right side of his face, passing his eye as he turned to the chieftain" we came as soon as we got the call" he saw Corsac being knelt and arrested" and Fennec?"
Ghira only shook his head meaning, he didn't made it. The faunus in charged walked over to the faunus.
"Was it worth it?"
"…."
Blake turned to Sun, he was all right, then at Ilia and Sienna, then her parents. Her amber eyes turned to the large crowd before her. Maybe it was time she makes that speech she couldn't say. It was time the people of Menagerie learn the truth and open their eyes to reality. That the ones responsible for this attack is the same group they trust so much in protecting them, the White Fang. She walked towards the crowd as Ghira called out to her but he was stopped by his wife. She needed to do this, who else will be able to put some sense into these people. Only her daughter who has seen firsthand that horrible things the faunus organization has done under Adam's command.
"Humans didn't do this. We did this. Faunus. We did this to ourselves. We are just capable of hate and violence as the humans, but I don't think any of us would jump at the chance to point that out. So why are we letting Adam do it for us?! By doing nothing and staying silent, we let the others speak and act in our place. And if we're not proud of the choices they make, then we have no one to blame but ourselves. This is the message Adam Taurus will bring to the world if no one stops him. But we can stop him! You have to understand that all of you are looking for simple answers to a very complicated problem. And I can't give that to you. I don't know how to make the hate go away. I don't! But I know this kind of violence is NOT the solution. I understand that to ask to leave your homes and protect Haven Academy is asking you to put your lives at risk...But that's what at stake. So I'm going, and I'll stand by myself if I have to. But I know, I won't be alone" Blake smiled thinking of her friends, teammates, Laphicet and Velvet.
"I'll stand with you!" Ilia walked over to her" if...If you'd have me."
"Isn't that the White Fang girl?" said one of the village faunus.
"I thought she hated the Belladonnas."
"You're not going anywhere!" the chief of the police stopped her.
"Let her come" Blake smiled.
"You're just going to forgive her? After everything she did?!"
"I am."
The chameleon faunus walked ahead.
"What is she think she's doing?" asked Saber.
"She's learned a lesson that I evaded until I was much older" said Ghira" that there is strength in forgiveness."
"I'll go as well!"
The people gasped when they saw Sienna Khan, the former High Leader of the White Fang. She walked over the crowd, finally revealing herself since she arrived to the island.
"I have made many mistakes. And I'm to blame for not keeping a close eye on Adam when I'd had to. I was too blind, thinking he was the symbol of hope the faunus needed. I was so wrong, his hatred for the humans has blinded him and has cloud over his judgment. Now, he will do anything to spread chaos, fear and even death. All in the name of our kind! He was willing to go as far as to kill me, because he wanted to take over as the High Leader. I managed to escape with my life and now I'm here. It was the Belladonnas that kept me safe giving me shelter in their home. I also blame myself for Corsac and Fennec's actions tonight. I'm not asking for any forgiveness, I just want to do what is right. Adam and his White Fang must be stopped. Otherwise, Haven Academy will become just like Beacon. It's up to us to make a difference, let them hear our voice. So I will go with Ghira's daughter to Mistral. After that, you can judge me as you like. I'm willing to turn myself to the authorities if it's necessary. I may have not gone so far like Adam, but I have done many questionable things, that aren't right."
"I'll go!" said a faunus from the crowd raising his hand
"I'll go!" said a female fish faunus raising her hand too.
"I'll stand with you!"
"Yeah! Me too! Let's go!"
"Looks like we've got work to do" Sun smiled at the cat faunus.
"Thank you" she smiled back.
"You stabbed me!" frowned the monkey faunus, pinched her.
"Ow!" Ilia rubbed her shoulder where he pinched her.
"There. Let's just call it even" he smiled.
"We have about two weeks before Adam's attack on Haven. We're going to need shields, training, whatever we can do to protect as many people as possible" said Ghira.
"We'll need transportation too. For everyone" added Khali.
"I think I know a ship captain that owe us a favor" the raven haired girl smiled remembering when they helped the captain battling that sea serpent Grimm.
"I'll help with the training. I used to be the High Leader of the White Fang, after all" said Sienna Khan.
"I'll help too. They need to know a lot about combat. We have to be prepare them for the worse" said the chieftain.
Cardin stood in one of the rooms of the rented house. He was giving his weapon maintenance and tuning it up. What a wild ride has been since he left Patch island. The journey to Anima wasn't that tough thanks for him bringing up a map, while his blond companion didn't. Yang's mom was a pain in the ass and he had no idea how they were going to find her sister and the others until the brawler brought up her semblance. So they reunited with Ruby, Jaune and everyone. And he thought that was it, might as well enjoy the moment that he was in Mistral because he has never come to the kingdom. That is, until he found out about Ozpin and his ability to reincarnate. The Winchester was still having a hard time believing it, but he witnessed it. As the former headmaster was inhabiting a teen named Oscar Pine, a farm hand from nearby the kingdom. Then adding, the four maidens, the relics and Salem and you have the biggest headache ever.
So much information he didn't know and he was still pondering over it. Someone that controls the Grimm, the maidens that actually possess magic, real magic shit. And four relics that have great power and one of them was in Haven Academy. Also that the school might get under attack just like Beacon. So it was going to be another battle where their lives would be at risk. He sighed resuming working on the cross whip. The tall teen hasn't heard anything from his mother since leaving Patch. What has he gotten himself into, he has asked the question so many times. Now, he didn't know what to do. Ozpin gave them the choice to stay and fight, or leave. That he won't judge no one for retreating. What to do, he didn't know. Heading back will take too long and he had no idea where his mother could be. So staying here, wasn't such a bad idea. He heard someone knocking on his door, but it was already opened.
"You don't have to knock" he saw Yang standing by the doorway.
"You look so busy, didn't wanted to disturbed you."
"I'm almost done anyway. What is it?"
"Still can't believe everything Ozpin said?"
"Join the club. It all feels like one weird dream. I never thought it will all be true."
"Same. I thought the Grimm were all mindless beasts. But they're really taking orders from someone. I used to think they were the big bad in this world and we have to stop them. But now, it sure has gotten complicated."
"You can still back out if you want to."
"No way. I'm staying because of Ruby. She's very good when it comes to doing that right thing. I'm just following her lead. And you?"
"I don't...Have a clue."
"If you're still here, it must mean something. Otherwise, you could have leave a while back."
"I'm still thinking about it. I never signed up for any of this. I was supposed to help you get to Mistral and help you find your sister. That's done and now, I don't know what to do."
"Cardin, I'm not going to convince you to stay. I've gotten you into enough trouble. You decide what to do next."
"That's a surprise" he chuckled" I thought you were going to convince me to stay."
"It's your choice to make, I won't make you choose."
"Does that mean you want me gone?"
"Honestly, no. I don't mind if you stay. With how things are looking, we could use all the help we can get. I'm only repeating what Ruby said."
"Guess I can stick around. If Haven is in danger, I'm in."
"All right, then staying you are" Yang smiled" by the way, thanks a lot."
"For what?"
"You know, for everything. For accompanying me, for helping me find Ruby and also...For standing up to me in front of my mom. That was bad ass."
"The bitch had it coming-I-I'm sorry Yang I didn't mean-"
"I don't care if you call her that. It's not like she's been there for me for the past eighteen years. Bitch is the best term to describe her, honestly."
"I should thank you too. Even with all of this crap, you've helped me in ways my own mother couldn't. Traveling with you has been a good experience after all."
"Same you helped me deal with things that my own dad couldn't. That's saying a lot, knowing he's the best dad ever."
"Let's not get too mushy Yang. You know I'm not a fan of that."
"Just letting you know I'm thankful for everything you've done for me. Including staying."
"If I go, what kind of friend I will be?"
"You know" the blond brawler started" I'm surprise you haven't mentioned anything to me about Blake all this time."
"Because nothing I say to you is going to change your mind. Your upset at her for ditching you. The only one who gets to solve this problem is you, not me and no one else. Your teammates will try to help you, but it ain't going to work. Sweet and pretty words aren't going to cut it. It all depends what will you do when you see her again."
"If I see her again" she muttered but immediately smiled" wow, you're actually pretty good at this Cardin."
"No, I'm not. Even if I try to talk you out of it, it wouldn't work. I will pretty much failed at that sort of thing."
"You have helped me now. So, I wouldn't say you failed. Thanks again."
The Winchester rolled his eyes finishing his work on his weapon.
"Hey guys?" Jaune entered the room" hope I'm not interrupting anything."
"Nah, we were just talking. What's up?" said Yang.
"Ozpin wants to talk to us, all of us."
"Ruby did said, we'll be finally leaving for my mom's tribe tomorrow night."
"I think that's the reason" replied the Arc.
"Then, let's not keep him waiting" Cardin finished his preparations getting up.
To be continued
-I'm going to guess the events at Menagerie took place before Ruby and co arrived at Mistral.
-Is Ruby jealous when she saw Laphicet so close to Weiss? Maybe, maybe not. I love messing with you guys lol.
-This is it folks. Starting next chapter we will be seeing the difference between canon and this version of the volume.
-On a side not according to Kerry's journal there won't be no new RWBY episode today the 22th (even if they released the preview this week) ep.9 will be release on the 29th last episode of the year.
-Good news! I just finished volume 5 of this story. I will release a chapter every Saturday. Now for the waiting game for volume 6 to end and then wait for the long release of volume 7. While I'll be waiting I'll be focusing on the following stories:
*The Alternate Path (I will release at least 3 chapters before going on break again).
*Proving his Worth (I'll try so hard to get rid of the small writers block because I have to check what code red daemons I missed throughout the story).
*Upcoming RWBY/Tales of Vesperia project (this is definitely coming in January 2019 once the definitive edition is released)
*Upcoming RWBY/Tales of Graces project with ZonZus giving me ideas (this one might be release somewhere in the new year, don't know when though).
*Defenders of Remnant (yes folks I will finally have time to start writing a couple of chapters since I already know how the story will turn out for the first 3 volumes).
-On another note my copy of Berseria FINALLY arrived. I've been playing non stop and grinding hard playing in chaos difficulty. And so far I'm doing pretty good. I love Velvet's Japanese voice both her and Cristina Vee did a great job. I like everyone else's Jap voices except for Rokurou for some reason, it doesn't suit him unlike his English voice.
-Replying to reviews and PM's:
*The Emerald Mage- because of you I am currently thinking of Velvet, Cinder and Raven wearing sexy Christmas outfits WHY?! I can't stop thinking about it, curse you pervy side of my head. Always happy to know you continue to love and support for the story.
*Shadow Joestar- you bet there's going to be another fight with these two ladies. And don't worry, Velvet will eventually join up with the others.
*RubyBlack11- thank you I hope you continue to like the story.
*CT7567Rules- thank for your continuing support. And I can only see Ruby piloting Deathscythe Hell Gundam from Wing because of you know, the scythe. Yang, definitely Heavy Arms. Weiss I can see her piloting the Impulse or Freedom. And Blake, Akatsuki. Hope this helps.
*Reversentai- I will not reply to your review. You simply hate my story I'm sorry you feel that way. So if you don't like it, then don't read it. I'm sure you will find one you like since there are so little RWBY/Berseria crossover stories in the section.
*ErickleRogue- true it's not an easy plan. Raven said it's complicated and she might have second thoughts but she agrees with Velvet about the two not wanting the relic to fall on Salem's hands. Also remember, this Cinder is the arrogant and proud one, not the failed one from volume 6. If she gets a chance to fight Velvet again she will take it and throw the mission to retrieve the relic and take the Spring Maiden's powers out of the window.
-I want to wish you all a very happy Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Spend time with your friends and families while opening gifts.
-As always thank you very much for the favs, follows and reviews I really appreciate it.
Next time: The More the Merrier
