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 56 Vault of the Spring Maiden
(Location: Branwen Tribe Camp point somewhere in the Anima continent Kingdom of Mistral Remnant)
Cinder never care about anything in her life. Never knew her parents, having a lonely childhood but she took pleasure in beating up the kids from her town. One wrong move or word and they will be in for a lot of trouble. After she showed, they respected her, but more importantly, they feared her. It was at that time that she love being strong, being feared by others. It became an obsession, her purpose in life. Through her years, she trained almost never ending, until she was strong enough to even take on experience fighters. Like Huntsmen and Huntresses. That wasn't her ambition. Becoming one that will protect mankind was bore and meaningless, she craved for more. And everything changed when she met Salem. The dark woman has promised her limitless power. Power to rule, to bring fear, to bring superiority. She didn't hesitated to joined her. Once she did, her dream was almost coming true.
Fulfilling her plan to hunt down the Fall Maiden, recruiting Emerald and Mercury. Those with a harsh past that are strong and would do anything to survive. The perfect pawns to do her bidding. The mission to kill Amber was a half failure but Salem still congratulated for her first time. Then the alliance with the White Fang and the wanted criminal Roman Torchwick. Her ultimate plan to get the Fall Maiden and bring Beacon down. In the end it was a successful mission. But not suffering a humiliating defeat at the hands of one, Velvet Crowe. The long black haired woman figured out the virus she planted at the mainframe of the CCT tower and she came so close to ruining her plan. If it weren't for her backup one. Ever since her defeat at her hands, her life was never the same. She lost an arm and an eye. Yet, Salem chose to help her until she was back at her feet.
Finding out Velvet was in a coma as a result of their fight but it wasn't enough to satisfy her. She wanted her to pay, she wanted her to suffer, she wanted her dead.
Only then she could truly be pleased knowing she took down her sworn enemy. And to think, she was expecting that enemy to be Ozpin or Qrow. She was wrong, and no matter how many times she begged Salem to let her go after the wretched black haired woman. The Grimm woman denied all of her requests due to her condition. She was wounded badly and needed recovery and also, she needed to train to control her new Maiden Powers. After six months, she finally got the hang of it and has truly become stronger than ever. That's what she believed, she couldn't truly confirm it unless she gets the chance to fight the older Crowe again. But the priority was Salem's mission and their next target was the Relic of Knowledge in Haven Academy. It was a simple mission, nothing complicated like the one in Beacon. Lionheart was already on their side and thanks to his intel, they were able to killed so many Huntsmen and Huntresses.
They have taken care of their so called" protectors" it was one obstacle out of the way. They only needed to find the Spring Maiden. Once again thanks to the lion faunus they found out the location of such at the Branwen Tribe. So Raven had the Spring Maiden with her. She probably had her as a line of defense against them if the red eyed woman encounters them. But Cinder was surprised to find out she wasn't interested in fighting them, she actually wanted her brother dead. To each his own it didn't mattered, she agreed to take them to Haven with the Spring Maiden Vernal in exchange, she gets the chance to take out her own blood. The amber eyed woman had little interest in family feuds. They come up with a plan to take of Qrow and the children from Beacon via an ambush. Raven will go there and she will use her semblance to sent her and her disciples to the school.
Once they were there, they will finish them off while heading to the Vault. Then, she will take Vernal's powers adding them to her own and kill Raven. Once their purposes have been fulfilled, they won't need their services anymore. That was the plan, simple and the odds of victory were so high. The Mistral military and the Police won't know a thing until it was too late. By the time they get to Haven, the entire school will be a burning ground thanks to the White Fang as part of their plan to destroy it. She will be stronger, they will have one of the four relics, Haven gone and their enemies dead. That's what it was supposed to happen. Because she's supposed to be there with Emerald and Mercury, Raven and the Spring Maiden. But no, that didn't happened. Just when she was about to go through the red portal it suddenly disappeared then, she was hit by a kick, a strong one. Stronger than Mercury's because it was engulfed in fire.
Even with her aura protecting her, it still hurt like a bitch. That came out of nowhere, she was on the ground for a couple of second before getting up. Amber eyes narrowed in pure anger, whoever had the guts to attacked her was going to pay dearly. The mission can be put on hold for a couple of minutes while she kills this assailant. That's what she wanted and everything changed when she took a glance at the person who attacked her. Cinder stood shocked and immediately changed to so much anger. Her eyes were flaring with the yellow flame of the Maidens. She could feel her own blood boiling to new levels as she was staring at Velvet Crowe. The one person she hated so much in Remnant, the one she wanted to get revenge on. The simple sight of the long black haired woman has made her thrown the whole plan out of the window. Now, she could care less about the relic and how Haven ends up.
The Fall Maiden tried to control herself not wanting her hatred to completely blind her. Or overcloud her judgment, so she was finally awake and kicking. That attack was enough to tell she was feeling better. All her wounds, have healed nicely. She started questioning how she got here. Salem probably knew where the older Crowe was but she never said anything not wanting her to know of her enemy's whereabouts. From how she attacked her it could only mean that Velvet was waiting for the opportunity to strike. She was waiting for her to be alone and suddenly the red portal was gone. Cinder immediately connected the dots, this was a planned ambushed. Looks like the black haired woman wanted only her. That was good, because she wanted her alone too. After so long, her revenge will finally be fulfilled. She chuckled a little while the Crowe kept her glare at the amber eyed woman.
"I knew Raven was up to something. I found it hard to believe she really wants to kill her brother. I never trusted her. She let you in on her plan?"
"I let myself be part of it since she's not so good at sharing. I made some changes in it, though. Like making sure you don't go to Haven. And I doubt Watts will give you a lift."
"True. He has already left, he's needed elsewhere. We're far away from Mistral, going there on foot will take weeks. You were here all along and you heard the entire conversation. That's how you knew when to attack. Well done Velvet."
"You're not leaving this place. You're not getting your hands on the relic."
"I'm not going anywhere. Emerald and Mercury can handle themselves, and Hazel is in Haven along with Adam and the White Fang. They will figure out Raven's a traitor in no time. She won't leave the school with the relic, dead or alive."
"You don't sound in the least worried for the relic."
"Neither side can get it because it's locked inside of the Vault. But once the Spring Maiden opens the door, the relic will be expose for the taking. But enough of that, you should be worry about yourself instead."
(Music: "The will that opposes reason" from the Tales of Berseria original soundtrack)
"I'm not worried. I only need to take care of you so I can go to Haven and finish things off."
"So confident, do you think your dear students will be able to hold on for so long?"
"I believe in them. And you should be worry about yourself instead."
Cinder's eyes were still glowing with the yellow flame, she was so angry and excited at the same time. She made her scimitar sword appeared. It was time to finish what she started at Beacon six months ago.
"You have no idea, how long I've waited for this day. This time, you won't end up in a coma. You will die today!"
"I'll pass. I have other plans."
"You don't have a choice!"
Cinder fired a couple of fireballs, which Velvet dodged them with ease. Eyes were fixed on the Fall Maiden as they crossed weapons. She was faster from last time, so she guessed she was stronger too. It's like she told Raven, this fight was more than just settling a score or a grudge. She needed to fight Cinder in order to keep her as far away from Haven. The former daemon had faith in her students and everyone who were fighting back at the school. Still, she wasn't going to hold back against someone so dangerous. This woman was serious business and she truly has intentions to kill her. Clashing weapons while firing back with artes and the Maiden was using magic like casting fire and ice. Not a single attack has made a direct hit with each yet. But so far the older Crowe hasn't unleash her claw, her break soul artes or break artes either. She knew this fight will be tougher than their last one.
"It will be different this time!" Cinder was so angry" I am stronger now, and throughout my training all I could think about is killing you!"
"You ain't the only one who's gotten stronger!"
The Fall Maiden released a barrage of fire balls as the older Crowe kept her distance, doing her best to dodged them. She succeeded but the fire has hit some of the empty tents from the bandits. It started causing a fire and it was spreading already. Cinder has made her point clear that she didn't care what happens as long as she gets to kill her. Burn this place to the ground if she must. Chaning Vertex Rose to mini gun mode firing a barrage at the woman. But she blocked the dust rounds like it was nothing. She looked more upset as if she was insulted for using something so inferior like dust on a Maiden. Velvet mentally scoffed, she hasn't changed one bit. Still so arrogant and power hungry as ever. The mini gun or her pistol wasn't going to be of use in this fight. She needed to use a clear head and brute force to stop someone as powerful as Cinder. The amber eyed woman charged with scimitar in hand.
"Don't run away from me!"
The former therion kept her cool dodging and countering her attacks. Her strategy was simple. Cinder will eventually lose control of her emotions she won't be able to think clearly. She will lose her edge and that's when the older Crowe will gain the advantage. Even with her power, she can still lose or get beaten. So the black haired woman kept on firing her dust rounds, while dodging and trying to counter. The Fall Maiden wasn't happy as she added more magic to her attacks, using both fire and ice. The former bandit camp was becoming unrecognizable with fire spreading and other places getting frozen. Among then was Raven's tent, it caught both elemental attacks. Velvet hoped the red eyed woman took everything she needed before leaving. She was risking a lot with this place but if she succeeds, she will have this match in the bag. The former daemon kept on firing while evading the magic attacks.
"Stop running!" the Fall Maiden was beyond pissed.
She kept releasing more fire and ice and even went further to throw rocks. Now, it was getting harder for the older Crowe to dodged so many projectiles. Boy, was she really angry. She wasn't wasting time but, she was aware it was suicide to attack her head on. Her plan was still working, Cinder was losing it. Her own anger was getting the best of her. Velvet has suddenly felt an earthquake, she was shocked that the Maiden was causing this. Moving the very ground she was standing on, her eyes glowing with the yellow flame. She cracked the earth as the former therion jumped to a near by tree branch. The long haired woman was met by more fire and ice as a yell of fury caught her attention. Both were clashing weapons as the Crowe took the chance to attack. She first used a headbutt which worked, then a kick that sent her to the air. Slicing foot, followed by Swallow Dance and finish it off with her mystique arte" Lethal Pain".
Cinder hit the ground hard as she coughed some blood. Amber eyes widened in shock and anger. How, how was she able to hit her when she was this powerful. She was stronger now, she knew how to control her Maiden powers so why. Salem's words came back as she remembers not to let her emotions controlled her. Her anger was stronger than her very own powers. That was it, why Velvet had the advantage over her. But she couldn't help it if she despises the long black haired woman so much. Even when she has made a complete mess of their surroundings. What was once Raven's bandit camp was nothing but a wasteland filled with fire, ice and shaken earth. Yet, there wasn't a single scratch on Velvet. The Crowe stood her ground, ready to face her. The Maiden spit some blood as she got up, calming down. She was laughing while her opponent stood confused.
(Music end)
"I get it now. The difference in our strength is pretty clear. I'm losing myself, not focusing enough. You think messing with my emotions will help you?"
"Why are you asking me? You're the one with the temper."
"You're only trying to buy time for those fools at Haven, what a waste. It ends here Velvet. Prepare yourself."
"Guess warm up is over."
(Music: "The one who possess the power of God" from the Tales of Berseria original soundtrack)
Cinder released a fire wave that Velvet barely avoided as she blocked a sword attack from the Maiden. She surrounded herself with fire and ice wanting to trap the former therion. But the Crowe unleashed her claw and performed a break soul arte, followed by a short combo that was blocked by the amber eyed woman. The black haired woman was impressed looks like she was now controlling her emotions, not letting her anger take over. It wasn't a good sign if she was now in complete control of the fight. She was kicked by the evil woman, getting pinned on the ground. The older Crowe couldn't believed of the strength she has, definitely an improvement from their last fight. Cinder has changed her weapon from a scimitar to something that caught the young woman's attention. Chest nut eyes widened in shock as she was now holding a spear resembling the weapon of one of her students.
"Look familiar? I decided to create it after I burned down the invisible girl. It's more like a tribute to her memory. You remember don't you, Velvet?"
"Don't you dare…." now it was the older Crowe the one getting angry.
The Fall Maiden stabbed the spear on the ground, few inches away from the Crowe. She grabbed her before punching her, followed by a kick. Then he hit her with the handle of the weapon. Cinder laughed evilly grabbing the spear.
"I'm going to enjoy beating you up, then some torture before I can finally finish you off. You don't deserve a quick death like your dear deceased student…."
"Stop it!"
Velvet countered with her gauntlet blade only to be blocked by the spear. They started clashing weapon at full speed. She wasn't expecting her to know how to use the weapon. Maybe, even better than Pyrrha. Once more she unleashed her large claw but it was blocked by another weapon. Cinder grinned as she made her scimitar appeared, using both weapons to blocked any incoming attack. The older Crowe went with Consuming Claw, followed by Laughing Raven. The Maiden has used fire and ice to blocked and countered with a wind gust. She laughed knowing she had the advantage over the black haired woman. Now that her emotions were in check, the roles have been reversed. It seems her anger was getting the best of her and it was preventing her from fighting better. She charged clashing weapons throwing the spear hitting hurting her on her right side.
"Don't stop now. I'm just getting started."
The former daemon growled clashing weapons but Cinder blocked them, countering with her own attack making contact with the black haired woman. She punched and kicked her, then grabbed her, pinning her to a tree again. Her evil laughter filled the Crowe's ears, she was truly enjoying this. Grabbing her by the neck, but Velvet unleashed her claw breaking her hold and performed various artes. It made contact with the Fall Maiden but she wasn't that hurt, thanks to her aura. Instead of painful expression on the woman's face, she only grinned further. The older Crowe didn't know what was wrong with her. When she was suddenly sent to another tree, not seeing it coming. Velvet coughed blood noticing that she was grabbed by an arm that belongs to a Grimm. It shocked her, the same arms belong to the Maiden. But how, the amber eyed woman only laughed in return.
"Surprised? You should be after all, you cut off my arm and my eye. There was nothing that can be done for it. My arm however, Salem was kind enough to lend me her power. A spare, if you rather call it."
"A Grimm arm…." Velvet shook her head at the irony.
"Don't worry. I will eventually cut your arm and eye. Like they say, "An eye for an eye". And I will make sure it hurts even more than when you did it to me."
Using Searing Edge, the former therion broke free as dodged fire balls. Clashing weapons again, she glared at the Maiden pissing her off so much. Such evil should never be allowed to live. It was no wonder Salem would recruit someone with a black heart. Power hungry, arrogant and malevolent. In her world, she would have become a daemon in no time. Why was she so strong now, she could barely dodged her attacks. There was a big difference between them now and she admitted if this continues, she will be in deep trouble. If she doesn't turn this fight around, she might end up worse than in a coma this time. More laughter as she beating the black haired woman without much effort. Yes, the training paid off and so is her patience. Salem was right all along. To think she actually doubted her. It was time to get her revenge. A kick that sent Velvet to the ground while spitting blood.
(Music end)
"A disappointment. I was expecting more from you. Guess you're not really in league with a Maiden after all."
"Keep running your mouth" she coughed more blood.
"If this is all you have then, I'm afraid we're done here. Time to have some fun. Once I'm done with you, I'll find a way to get to Haven and find your precious students. Starting with your brother."
Chest nut eyes widened in shocked.
"I will take him just like Salem wants. I will torture him until he begs me to kill him."
"You're...Making a very big mistake!" the former therion glared.
"I might cut him into little pieces and then burn him to ashes like I did to Miss Invisible Girl. You won't even recognize him. How wrong of me, you won't get the chance. Because, you'll be dead!"
(Music: "Burn" full version by Flow from the Tales of Berseria original soundtrack)
Cinder really did made a very big mistake mentioning her little brother. Velvet was filled with rage activating her special skill. Her entire body was consumed by malevolence. Her eyes turned red and her facial features changed but, they were different from the last time she activated her skill. They were more draconic, resembling a dragon. Cinder gasped remembering this change in the black haired woman. The malevolence in her body, it made her stronger. It was the reason why she was able to stand toe to toe with her. But not this time, the Fall Maiden was stronger than ever. Velvet won't be able to beat her even with that little trick. She raised her scimitar while holding a fire ball in her Grimm arm. But the older Crowe has suddenly vanished, it was impossible. How could she has gotten faster all of the sudden. The Fall Maiden has been kicked caught in a combo.
"LEAVE LAPHI OUT OF THIS!"
The combo started with fast martial artes, then a break soul, followed by a couple of arcane artes, then a break arte. The former daemon kept going with the combos beating the crap out of Cinder. Even with her aura protecting her from harm, she was still bleeding. Velvet grabbed the evil woman with her claw and threw her into a tree. The force was so strong, that it broke it. Then she hit another and broke it too. A cry of fury from the black haired woman followed as she charged and started another combo. Overpowering the Maiden in every way. Velvet was pissed after what she told what she was planning to do with her brother. That was crossing the line big time. You don't hurt Laphicet without paying the prize. Then she went with her mystique arte, Lethal Pain. The arte was stronger than usual that sent Cinder's body flying through the other side. The malevolence was still leaking and strong as the Crowe was still vivid from her comment.
"Don't you EVER mess with my family or friends you bitch!"
In an explosion Cinder was up looking so pissed. But she gasped as Velvet was right in front of her. Both were clashing weapons and she couldn't believe how fast she has become. Once more she was caught in combo by the former therion, giving her a real beating. The Crowe finished it off with her second mystique arte "Annihilating Crash". The Fall Maiden was again on the ground, her face dirty and bloodied. Anger and shock in features. She just didn't understood how can she be losing to someone like her. What was worse, all those attacks she took have taken a big chunk of her aura. She was running low on it and that wasn't good. Meaning the next attack the black haired woman pulls will really hurt and it might even kill her. Why, she wasn't letting her anger controlled her, she was calm and focused. So this wasn't supposed to be happening, she was a freaking Maiden.
"This can't be…." she panted" how can she be stronger? After all the training I did. I can control my powers and yet, I'm getting beaten. I refuse...To be defeated by her…."
"What are you mumbling about? I'm not done yet!" Velvet was still covered in her malevolence form.
(Music end)
"Be calm and patient Cinder. Your time will come and when it does, Velvet Crowe will finally meet her downfall. But that is something it can't be rushed. You're still adjusting to the Fall Maiden's powers. It takes years for one to become skill with them. Your emotions play a key role in the outcome of the future battle."
Salem's words rang in her head. She was right, she should have waited more. Maybe a year to perfect her powers otherwise, she wouldn't be having this problem. Velvet Crowe, what a pain in the ass she has turned out to be. The long black haired woman had cuts, dirt and blood all over her. The clothes she was wearing were a bit thorn. The Crowe felt sorry for Winter since these were her clothes. She will apologize to the older Schnee if she gets the chance to see her again. She gazed at the amber eyed woman, she was preparing a large fire ball. Fight fire with fire, that's what they say. With her claw she cast a fire ball of the same size, she used this fire to open a rift in the earth pulse to escape Innominat. The flame that burns that once belongs to her older sister Celica. Both ran at each other screaming in fury and their attacks collided, create a large explosion that spread through the whole former bandit camp.
Raven kept clashing swords with her brother. The fight felt odd, not because she was fighting her family. But, because maybe he figured out it was all just an act. He knew she was deceiving the enemy. It will explained why he was trying so hard to fight her. It wasn't bad if he knew, at least he now knows of her true intentions with supposedly "betraying" them joining Salem. Turning to Vernal, she was doing good fighting the Schnee heiress. Ruby and her daughter were having a hard time taking on Emerald and Mercury, it wasn't easy with the dark skinned girl's semblance creating illusions to fool the blond brawler. The others weren't doing good either. The man known as Hazel has proven to be a very tough opponent as he blocked and attacked all the students that were fighting him.
As for Leonardo, he was having his hands full dealing with that unknown boy. Raven saw the cane he was holding, that was enough to tell her that it was Ozpin. So he has reincarnated again and sooner than she thought. That was good, this crazy plan may work after all. This has gone long enough. No one was suspecting her to be traitor except Cinder's disciples. But it didn't matter, what was important was getting to the Vault and get the relic. Also, she could hear heavy gun fire coming outside of the building. It could be the Mistral Police has gotten involved and they were currently fighting with the White Fang. It was the perfect time to leave and head for the Vault. The red eyed woman secrecy signaled at Qrow hoping he will understand. And he did, knowing she was going to make her move. He'd prefer if his sister takes the relic rather Salem.
"Leo! Open the path to the Vault!"
The lion faunus managed to avoid Oscar's attacks, climbing down the stairs. He took his pocket watch and put on the empty necklace of the large Goddess statue. It started spinning rapidly and the platform was holding, was moving down, revealing an elevator. Vernal stopped fighting Weiss as she got walked over to her leader. Emerald and Mercury looked at each other for a second and realized their suspicions of the tribe leader were true after all.
"I knew it! Traitor!" shouted the dark skinned girl.
"Let's go Vernal!"
"Stop them! She's against us!" argued Emerald while the headmaster stood confused.
The two disciples were about to go after them when Qrow stood in their way.
"Leaving so soon? The party's just begun."
"My semblance doesn't work on this guy" she remembered casting an illusion at the Huntsman back at Amity Arena during the Vytal Festival, but she couldn't.
Ruby and Yang stood confused at the whole thing. The blond brawler watched as her mother and the Spring Maiden went to the platform and it started moving down, until they couldn't be seen. It was heading into the depths of the school. Lionheart was caught off guard as he got hit by Ozpin's cane. Hazel found out a little too late that they've just being betrayed by the leader of the Branwen Tribe. The others regrouped with the scythe master and his nieces. It's been a while since they were hearing the fighting going on outside. The large man has grabbed Lionheart by the neck of his collar not looking happy with his performance.
"You're lettin' that boy make a fool of you."
"That's not just a boy! It's Ozpin. He's already reincarnated!"
Hazel has dropped the man looking in thought" Ozpin?"
The large man kept gazing at the farm boy. He met him before him on his way to Mistral. So, all this time his enemy was right in front of him. Looking at the cane was pretty clear, it was Ozpin all right. Anger has completely taken over him remembering his revenge. Remembering what the former headmaster did, what he lost because of him. Tonight he will finally get his chance at his vengeance.
"OZPIN!"
"Oh no" the former headmaster got worried.
"You thought you could hide from me?!" He ripped his jacket taking lightning dust crystals from the bags on his pants" you'll pay for what you did, you'll die over and over again!"
Hazel has stabbed the crystals into his elbow area as the lightning flew through his arms and body. His eyes were glowing with the same color of the crystal as he gave a loud shout filled with rage. Everyone was shocked at the sight. They have never seen someone taking dust crystals into their own body. It was insane because such effect can kill anyone. Dust wasn't meant to be used like that. But this guy was able to do it and apparently, he was still alive. The crystals were obviously giving him a huge power boost. If he was tough before then now, he was unstoppable. Jaune turned to Laphicet, now they had their hands full with this guy. While Emerald and Mercury didn't know what to do. Without Cinder here, their plan will be a failure. What other reason could they have to fight if their boss wasn't around. As for Oscar, the poor boy was trembling in fear.
"Do-Do we fight?"
"No, run!"
Hazel charged with a punch but Qrow got in time to saved the teen.
"Let's take him on" Jaune told everyone" as strong as he looks, he must have a weakness."
Qrow joined the Arc with Laphicet, Cardin, Ren and Nora against the large man. The farm boy stood behind on the side lines. Ruby and Yang kept their gazes on Emerald and Mercury who were confused at the situation.
"We should leave."
"What?" Emerald was shocked at her partner's comment" but the mission-"
"It's done. Cinder isn't here, we know she's not coming. They already have the relic. It's over Em."
"No, I know Cinder. She will find a way to get here, I know it."
"And by the time she does, the fight will be over. We have lost this one."
"I'm staying" she readied her weapon" if you want to leave then, go ahead. I'm not stopping you. You're the one who will be in trouble when she gets here."
"Damn" the gray haired teen didn't like it but he chose to stay.
"Sis, you okay?" asked Ruby.
"I'll be fine" the brawler glared at the two" let's team up."
"You got it!"
"Ozpin!" Hazel charged at the group that was protecting the farm boy.
Ren, Nora, Cardin and Weiss did their best but one push from the empowered large man sent them to the ground. Qrow has changed his weapon to scythe mode and even he was having problems fighting such a foe. Jaune was next, using the first mystique arte he learned "Arc Revolution". He hit Hazel hard as he got staggered and hurt from all the powerful attacks. Laphicet followed casting Negative Gate. The combination of the artes sent him flying as he destroyed a pillar and making a hole in the building's wall. Everyone stood their ground, they were hoping that was enough to put a stop to him. A loud cry of anger followed as Hazel was back on his feet, his body was still flowing with lightning dust. They were all shocked, expecting he will be downed for good after receiving such a beating. This wasn't your ordinary opponent if anything, he has proven to be more of a challenge than Tyrian.
"No way…." said Cardin in a loss for words.
"How can he still be standing?!" said Nora.
"It shouldn't be possible!" followed Laphicet.
"Stay on guard!" Jaune readied his weapons.
"I don't get it" said Oscar" why is he so upset with us?"
"He didn't tell you my tale, did he, boy? I thought you looked familiar, to think that evil was inside you when our path first crossed. Your blood won't be on my hands, it'll be on his."
"Stay back!" Qrow told the farm boy.
"Get away!"
"What is he talking about?!"
"Tell him, Ozpin! Tell him how you killed her!"
"Her?"
"Gretchen Rainart was Hazel's sister. Despite her brother's wishes, she enrolled Beacon Academy to become a Huntress...And tragically lost her life on a training mission. Hazel...Holds me responsible. Please, let me fight. I know Hazel. He's wounded in a way that cannot be healed."
"You know now!" he blocked the Branwen's attack along with Cardin, Ren and Nora, he pushed them aside like they weight nothing" you can forgive me for what I'm about to do."
"Did she know? Did she know the risk of being a Huntress?" asked Oscar.
"She was only a child! She wasn't ready!" he argued.
"She made a choice! A choice to put others before herself! So do I" he readied the cane.
"Then you've chosen death!"
"I'm sorry."
"What?" the teen lost conscious as Ozpin has taken over his body against his will.
Now he was staring at Hazel different, looking more mature. As a man who has live for so long his entire life.
"OZPIN!" the large man realized now that he was staring at the former headmaster.
The large man was punching in all direction but Ozpin dodged them all. With Oscar's small body it was so easy to move, faster than an adult. Not to mention the short training had enabled him to use his aura for combat. Though he still had ways to go before becoming a great Huntsman. The former headmaster able to blocked his attacks and countered making Hazel angrier. Leonardo cast a glyph about to fire on Ozpin but Qrow stopped him firing from his weapon. Now the Branwen fighting the lion faunus, one on one. Jaune and the others wanted to help him but he told them to stand back and aid Ruby and Yang. The sisters were still having trouble with Emerald and Mercury. So the Arc ordered Ren and Nora to help them. Cardin and Weiss went on their own. The former heiress wanted to help her partner and the Winchester the blond brawler. The sound of heavy fire and explosions outside was still present. Looks a bigger battle was talking place there than here.
Adam yelled at his army not to hold back and give it everything they've got. So far, they have managed to destroyed all the robot Altesian soldiers but the Paladins remains, as well as the human groups. The High Leader wasn't happy that Atlas will stick their noses in this operation. He ordered his men that were equipped with rocket launchers to fire at the mechs, while others were firing on the human soldiers. The commander was currently taking covered behind one of the school buildings. One of his men came and reported that they still needed more time to place the blast charges on the entire school. News that didn't made him happy and ordered to finish the preparations now, or else. As things couldn't get any worse for the faunus group, lights were pointed at them coming from above. Adam recognized the air ship, it was an Altesian battle sky fleet. They had reinforcements after all.
*This is Specialist Winter Schnee of the Atlas Military. White Fang, surrender now and I give you my word, you will all be spare! Drop your weapons and put your arms in the air now!*
"As we will take the word of a human! None less, a Schnee. Rocket launchers, fire on that fleet! The rest of you finish these humans off!" ordered the High Leader.
"Are we doing the right thing?" said Vernal as she stood on the elevator along with her leader.
"It's not our concern. Besides, you saw what those children can do, they're capable. Plus, judging from the sounds coming from outside, I'd say they already have the battle won. The war however, that's another story."
"I guess, that Schnee is pretty tough for a rich brat. I underestimated her. It's a good thing I didn't use my Maiden powers on her."
Raven only rolled her eyes at her comment" keep your guard up. We don't know what's waiting for us at the bottom."
"Are we expecting security at the Vault?"
"Perhaps. But since Leonardo has been helping Salem for a long time, I highly doubt it. Still, stay on guard."
"Raven…." the young woman paused for a moment" what are we going to do now?"
"Once we secure the relic, we'll head back to the tribe. Our job will be done. I wish not to stay any longer, before the Mistral Police gets involved."
"And Velvet? I mean, have you thought of handing the relic to her? Forgive me for saying this, it's probably not my place to speak. But she has a point. If we take the relic Salem will come after us more than usual. I know we'll never be safe from her. But having the relic makes us a bigger target."
"Just like she said" said the red eyed woman shaking her head" there's also the consequence for having a relic to deal with as well."
"What do you mean?"
"The relics are more than just powerful tools created by the Gods. They also have the ability to attract the creatures of Grimm."
"I thought only negative emotions attract them" Vernal was shocked not seeing that coming.
"Asides from that. The relics also attract them. I don't know exactly how it works. But perhaps it has something to do with Salem. It doesn't change the fact, if we take the relic, Grimm will be coming at us. As long as we have it in our possession the fights will be never ending."
"Then, that gives us the more reason to give it to Velvet. Let her and those brats take care of it. Let them face the danger, they made their choice."
"…."
"Raven?"
"Depends. If she's still breathing, I might reconsider my choice. If not, we're keeping it. I'd rather be hunted down by Grimm forever than to give it to Cinder."
The elevator finally stopped reaching the bottom level of the school. It was dark, but something was giving light the area. The front doors of the elevator went down allowing the two ladies to proceed as they got closer they saw a large tree with in bloom with yellow flowers and leaves falling from it. Below, stood a door. Obviously it was the Vault and behind it, the relic of Knowledge. As they followed the path, touching a circle it lit up revealing a strange symbol, the path was being lit as it lit a second circle and then a third one. They stopped until reaching the third circle.
"Now what?"
"Only the Spring Maiden can open the door of the Vault. I suppose I have to touch it to open it."
Raven walked closer reaching the door as her hand touched the surface. There was a momentary glow in the door before it disappeared. The door was closing as the wings were leaving, until they were all down. Inside was a desert that probably reached an entire field. This is how the inside of the Vault looks like. The red eyed woman was impressed as she stepped inside. Before her stood an elegant pedestal. But her eyes were on what was on it. A beautiful lamp decorated in gold and light blue. This was it, the Relic of Knowledge.
Velvet slowly got up, feeling her body in pain. Last she remembered, she and Cinder's fire attacks collided, creating an explosion and everything went black for the former therion. So it was a mistake but she didn't had a choice. The Fall maiden wasn't backing down, if she hadn't done what she did, she would have been dead. Or maybe in another coma. But this time, she would have been dead at the hands of the amber eyed woman. Setting her eyes before her, they widened from the shock. The area where it was supposed to be Raven's bandit camp tribe looked like it was hit by a meteor. The ground was demolished, there was fire all around and some ice, but it was melting. There's no way the Maiden was dead, she was hard to killed, just like her. And she was right as she spotted the evil woman not that far. But in the place where Raven's tent used to be. They have sure made a mess of the place.
The malevolence came back when she saw the Fall Maiden, getting angry again. It was the same for Cinder once she was up. Her eyes flare yellow glaring at the black haired woman. They stood staring at the other. The hatred was evident in their eyes. But it Cinder's was stronger. Remembering all the training she did and it looked it didn't paid off. Why was Velvet stronger, why does she still feel like she was weaker and inferior to the Crowe. Maybe she used the wrong choice of words when she mentioned her brother. That's what made the malevolence came out and made the black haired woman stronger. So much hatred, her body was hurting a lot. Especially her Grimm arm. Another fight and she might not make it through. To think Velvet Crowe will pushed her to the limit.
"WHY WON'T YOU DIE!" screamed the Maiden in rage.
"The feeling's mutual!" the former daemon snapped.
"I'm not letting you stop me again, after coming so far. I'm killing you right here and now!"
"You're finally going to fight seriously?"
"I'll make sure you don't have any space to run!"
Cinder was now levitating as she unleashed a whirlwind, then she used fire, ice and earth fusing it into an elemental whirlwind. And it was a big one too. Worse of all, she was making it grow in size. Velvet was in for it now. If she get hits by that, she will surely die. But she couldn't let it end here. For Laphicet and everyone, she couldn't lose. She told Yang she will join them and that's what she was planning to do.
"Bring it!"
To be continued
-Yay cliffhanger lol and first chapter of the new year!
-Hope you have enjoyed the first half of the Velvet/Cinder fight and there's more to go in the next chapter. Looks like she's pissed and it's serious now. Back in Haven everything is going well, Winter might have her work cut out against Adam for the time being. It's different from canon but the odds are on the good guys. However you know what they say, expect the unexpected.
Shadow Joestar happy to know you like the chapter and I know about Raven revealing herself to be the Spring Maiden. Emerald and Mercury still believed Vernal is the Maiden.
crawforddarius7 I will try to update Defenders of Remnant in the new year and I have seen your reviews and it's strange since I'm still in volume 1 and you already gave a review of the latest episode of volume 6. It's more like a heads up than a review. Anyway, I haven't read them all because it's too much information. I'll see what I can do when I get free time. And yeah I can't wait for Vesperia Definitive Edition to be release next week.
-CT7567Rules yep that Pyrhha statue is RT's way of hitting us right in the feels and I'm starting to have second thoughts about the red haired woman who showed up with the flowers, I don't think it was her mother at all. Some say it's an apparition since Jaune's character is based off Jeanne D'Arc, others say it's Pyrrha's reincarnation and this one I don't believe it because it's been like what since Pyrrha died, a year? That woman looks to be in her early mid 20's sorry but reincarnation doesn't cut it. Also the only one who has that ability is Ozpin and he was given that ability by the God of Light. So, unless he has decided to do the same thing with Pyrrha, which is very unlikely I won't believe it. I will go with the one that it was an apparition from Jaune's head of how he thinks Pyrrha would looked like as an adult and that she's watching him and everyone on the other side. That's my take on it.
The Emerald Mage I find it amusing that Sienna Khan voiced by Monical Rial is in this story with Velvet. Makes me wonder if she will realize about her voice, is it familiar to her lol. And I agree about the new episode I was very good and heartbreaking. Ruby, Jaune and Emerald got some development. As always I am happy you're still enjoying the story. And let me tell you it's going to get more interesting, more different than in canon, you'll see. I also hope you had a Happy New Year and thanks for mentioning the picture of your friend. At one point Velvet was like Cinder she was power hungry to become strong to kill Artorius. Anything for her revenge. The irony.
Andromeda all I have to say is that Velvet will eventually come to Haven and join up with everyone before the volume's finale. The Spider Spy Network will make it's debut just like in canon in this story. So nope, not until volume 6. As for Jaune unlocking his semblance I thought I had that covered with the ability to perform artes. Maybe I can come up with something but I have to think about it.
Cielosphere- I know they're OC since they don't remember anything from their world but they will eventually remember as the story goes by. Maybe by the time I get to volume 6 of Defenders of Remnant they will all have their memories again.
RevampedAtol I am more than glad you feel that way about that story. And that it has help you through some tough times. This is what I want from all my stories to help people in some way, whether it's from stress from school or work, or daily life. Like you said it's a chance to escape from reality and have some time for yourself. That's what I think fan fiction is all about. I will be sending you a PM later.
Lightning Lord Kai well Jaune can use artes as part of his semblance but he can't cast break artes or break soul artes. Laphicet might at least learn a few break souls in the future but not the Arc. I might give him a few casting artes to balance him as a Magic Knight type. Thank you for the question, it does seem off when you point it out. It really is weird Ozpin or anyone hasn't given Jaune enough credit of his abilities.
SuperSonic2018 yeah the main event let's get ready to RUMBLE lol.
-SPOILER ALERT for volume 6 episode 10 the plan to steal an Atlas ship was genius, you gotta give Jaune credit for that and I'm liking Maria more and more lol. Still now they have to faced a pissed Cordovin piloting a mech which reminds me of the Paladin team RWBY fight from volume 2. And OMG get ready to feel the Bees people as Yang will rescue Blake from Adam and they will team up against him. They will show him the power of their love is strong to conquer his evil. I'm being sarcastic but it looks like RT is heading in that direction with the ship. And once again Ruby standing up to Qrow showing how much she has matured since volume 1. I love when her character gets development. The part when Maria was mocking Cordovin eating cashews was hilarious. That's the sound of me NOT caring lmao. There are only 3 episodes/chapters in the volume I can tell it's going to end in a cliffhanger I can feel it. And as always I'll be looking forward to it.
-Just to add I have added more challenge stories on my profile page there are also some RWBY/Tales stories too if anyone is interested in accepting them just let me know with a PM.
-On another note my internet is being a real pain. God I hope it does get better. And I was wrong it's getting worse to the point I had to connect an ethernet cable to my router in order to upload the chapter.
-As always thank you very much for the favs, follows and reviews I really appreciate it.
Next time: Battle of Haven
