Shadows of Destiny
Rating: T
Series: RWBY
Main Pairing: Atsura/Pyrrha (War & Peace)
Volume 2: Fall
Volume Theme: "I May Fall"
Chpt. Theme:
Summary: He was an orphaned Faunus. She was considered the strongest of her class. He barely survived the slums of Mistral while she was placed on a pedestal on her way to Beacon. Neither of them expected to be compatible and yet, fate had other plans for them. With secrets and agendas awaiting them, the world of Remnant will have a force to reckon with.
The alternate timeline takes place just before the start of RWBY volume 1.
OCs for Team AZRE are as follows:
Atsura Otueome (xXCrownofChaosXx)
Roxanne Rouge Octane (ArnoldStroong)
Zaffre Grey (DarkDarsi)
Earna K. Athena (zetsunaflames)
I do not own the rights to RWBY... that honor belongs to Rooster Teeth. I do own the rights to my OCs.
(Buckle up, kiddies! This one's a long one!)
Chapter 15: From Shadow's Festival
After a day of rest, most of the gang were refreshed and fully able to enjoy their victory. Nora recovered the fastest as shown through her incessant devouring of the pancakes being made by her boyfriend, Ren. Joined by Yang, Weiss, and Roxanne, she led a customarily energetic conversation while Ren & Jaune discussed the other breakfast menu options.
While this went on, they were joined by Blake and Sun who joined their respective groupings.
Eventually, the kitchen and living room were both filled with laughter and excitement as they all continued to unwind and relax.
"I still can't believe that you were impaled, Weiss!" Yang chimed in. "I nearly had a heart attack."
"It's still a shocker to me too! Being that close to death can really put things into perspective."
"Well, at least you're all better, thanks to Jaune of course!" Nora added, catching the blond off guard.
Weiss merely rolled her eyes but, didn't deny the truth behind the energetic girl's accurate claims. While Jaune Arc sputtered out some explanation in an attempt to remove the spotlight from himself, Weiss couldn't help but fondly recall the moment when she felt herself being pulled back from the void. Seeing those warm blue eyes of the boy who used to annoy her during their days at Beacon, it was both a relief and a shock.
Still, the former Schnee heiress chose to remain silent, hoping to change the subject so that her awkward feelings would disappear as well.
Her request would be granted, though it would come in an unusual way.
Black fox ears and tail came into view after the girls hear a loud yawn coming from the stairwell. All eyes locked on the groggy form of Atsura dragging himself toward the kitchen as if in a trance. While he greeted the boys, the girls continued to just watch him silently. The reason for their staring was revealed when the boy's tail started swaying lightly revealing his boxer covered posterior.
"So... when did Atsura have a nice ass?" Weiss whispered.
"Weiss...!" Yang hissed, blushing profusely.
"She's not lying," Nora nudged the blond suggestively. "Although, it's not as cute as my Ren's..."
"We CAN hear you!"
The fivesome shot up from their spots, finally noticing a visibly uncomfortable Lie Ren holding a couple of plates of bacon and scrambled eggs. Jaune raised a knowing eyebrow coupled with a smug grin while Sun & Atsura were busy devouring some bacon and biscuits.
"You know it's impolite to eavesdrop on other's conversation!" Weiss huffed.
"It's also rude to talk about people behind their backs..." The Faunus chuckled, further adding to Weiss's embarrassment. "But, I do appreciate the compliment, Ice Queen."
Weiss's face turned a beet red at the mention of her old nickname. However, when she was about to retort the boy's implication, she would find him already disappearing up the stairs, his bushy tail being the last thing visible. Nora could barely stifle the giggle directed at the Schnee. She was joined by a chorus of sympathetic laughs from the others.
"Oh come on... It's not THAT funny," Weiss rolled her eyes.
"It's is too!" Ruby tittered.
"Maybe next time you'll keep your voice down."
Weiss shot a glare toward the hammer-wielding girl before returning to her own plate. It wasn't like Nora's words went unheard either; she just didn't care, obviously. All that being said, she couldn't hold back the soft laugh that tickled her throat when she thought about the previous encounter just now.
"It's not my fault that he's attractive..." she muttered with a smirk.
Suddenly, the symphony of merriment died down to silence. Looking up, Weiss found herself facing several looks of wonder and even a couple of horror, the latter being Ruby and Nora respectively.
"What? Is it not true? Why are you all staring at?" she raised an eyebrow.
It was then that Weiss suddenly realized that the group wasn't staring at her but rather, something behind her. With that came the rush one would feel when they could feel someone's eyes burning a hole through their skull. The ominous presence behind her grew stronger by the second as Weiss understood the seriousness of her statement.
Slowly, she turned her head, prepared to address the inevitable...
Pyrrha Nikos, holding a plate of food, towered over her. Though she had her typical smile that the others knew very well, there was a dangerous undertone behind her simper. That 'calm before the storm' display sent a bone-rattling shiver through the body of the aforementioned 'Ice Queen'.
"Hello again...!"
After an interesting ending to breakfast, the gang decided to go out and spend some much-needed downtime to explore the city of Mistral. Splitting up, the boys decided to check out a few of the stalls on the lower levels while the girls debated on where they would go. Even from far away, the four could hear the incessant yelling of Ruby, Yang, and Weiss canceling the other out when an idea was brought up.
Humorously, the boys' first stop was a rather seedy building that Jaune mistook for a haunted house attraction. Little did they know, their visual naiveté would be stripped from them thanks to the blond's blunder. The event was made worse by the fact that three of the four were basically in a relationship as the boys tried to shake off what they'd just witnessed.
"Wow..." Ren blinked blankly.
"I knew Qrow said the lower levels were bad but... I didn't expect to see that." Jaune wiped his face.
"Maybe next time, you don't recommend a place called "Juggles", Jaune?" Sun groaned, trying his hardest (in vain) to erase the imagery from his brain.
"It's not my fault! The sign said it was a dance hall..."
The trio of guys just stared at Jaune as if he'd grown a second head; surely he couldn't be THAT ignorant right? With the Fall of Beacon being over half a year past now, the blond had to have gotten smarter. Ren simply growled at his leader's artlessness. Sun face-palmed, leaving a visible handprint. Atsura merely stared at the boy while his left eye twitched in irritation.
"Jaune? What 'dance hall' do you know is open in the middle of the day on one of the lowest levels of Mistral?"
Blue orbs blinked several times at the foxes question, proving that he was, in fact, that dense.
"I'm sorry! But, at least we got to see a naked woman, right?"
Once more, the glares returned, causing Jaune Arc to hold his hands up defensively as Ren and Sun approached him. Atsura wasn't sure if he wanted to join them in the berating of Jaune or just laugh our of the stupidity. He wouldn't get a chance to make a clear decision though as a sound caught his ears. It was soft like the midday breeze, but the voice drew his attention nonetheless.
He looked around, seeing nothing but the crowds of people chatting or conducting business; nothing out of the ordinary.
Come...
Atsura then witnessed the sight of Sun shaking the apologetic Jaune but, he looked beyond that to the cavern where an unknown figure stood. As it began its departure, the fox gave chase.
"Atsura?" Ren called out in confusion.
Atsura didn't hear his friend as he tore through the crowds of Mistral's citizens. His only focus was the mysterious person who always appeared farther away. Still, he would concede defeat as he continued forward, traversing each level higher and higher.
Hurry...
The voice kept calling out to him, enticing him to keep going, even when his lungs burned from the climb. Eventually, his efforts resulted in the last place he expected to be:
Haven Academy.
Gazing at the Grand Hall, Atsura scoured the area but detected no trace of the figure. There was only the ruined amphitheater where interestingly, Atsura just knew that he needed to head in this direction. Ignoring the warning tape, he roamed inside, taking in the room's appearance There was no distinction from his previous arrival except, the elevator that led to the vault was nowhere in sight.
Caution took over but once again, the voice cried out to him.
Help me...
This time the voice sounded like that of a helpless child. Had they wandered off and wound up underground. Grabbing his weapon, Atsura threw caution to the wind and jumped down the chute. It didn't take long for him to reach the bottom but, there was no sign of the owner of the voice. All that stood before him was the still opened vault.
The brightly lit sands nearly blinded him but he adjusted fast enough to notice that something. Where there once was a small pedestal that held the lamp, now stood a small pool of water. Alarmed and concerned, he rushed toward the sparkling lake.
"Hello?"
Nothing.
No reply was given as Atsura stared at his reflection. That's when the voice returned; a soft whisper replacing the overt cry from before. Soon, the lone voice shifted into more and more recognizable tones began to fill the head of the Faunus. The closer he got to the water, the more he felt his senses dulling as he felt himself being drawn in like a moth to a flame.
"Atsura? What's going on? Why did you run off like that?"
The boy turned around to find Jaune followed by Ren and Sun close behind. Noticing this, Atsura froze, his mind finally shaking off the trance that swirled. Everything was a blur but, he did remember enough to answer.
"Guys... I- I heard someone calling for help. I chased a figure but... This pool is all I found."
"That is rather peculiar," Ren rubbed his chin. "But, I think we should get out of here. I feel a strong presence here; one that best not be tampered with."
Though his curiosity was piqued, Atsura couldn't find a proper rebuttal at the moment. Sure, he saw someone or... something... But, whatever it was, he hadn't seen it since arriving at the campus. On top of that, they technically weren't supposed to be here in the first place. He picked himself up, brushing off the sand that clung to his clothes.
But, before he could join his buddies, something began to stir under the surface of the pool. Whatever it was, it didn't give any of the foursomes a chance to react before black tentacles shoot out of the water, wrapping around Atsura's middle. Clutching at the appendage, gasping for air as it pulled him into the depths. Whatever this thing was, it had a solid grip as he struggled in vain to force it to release him.
"Let me go!"
Shock suddenly rushed through his brain at a realization; he was breathing underwater. Wherever he was, he didn't appear to be in any immediate danger of drowning but, that didn't change his issue with whatever creature had a hold of him.
He wouldn't have to worry for long though when the surrounding fluctuations of water suddenly turned into a brick room. Soon, the scene around him twisting until he landed on where the ceiling used to be. There was no sign of the pool evident in his current form; not even an inch of him was damp.
"What happened? Where am I?"
Several torches began to light around him, revealing a gloomy corridor. With no other way present, Atsura cautiously walked down the hall. His eyes scanned the entirety of the foyer only to hear the faint sounds of sniffing and crying. His steps began to quicken, each one gaining more and more ground as Atsura recalled everything that brought him to this point.
"Hello? Who's there?" he called out as he ran through the winding way.
No answer once again.
This irritated the fox but, he continued onward until he ended up seeing a dark room. He crossed the threshold, sensing that he was not alone. His feeling was confirmed when a single large torch lit up within the middle of the chamber. In front of it sat a small Faunus, curled up and appearing to be crying. Thanks to the fire licking the air, he spotted similar ears and a tail, both lying down in a defeated manner.
"Hey. Are you alright?"
"You shouldn't be here..." the childlike voice answered back.
Atsura was taken aback at the cold response. By the looks of things, the youth was only about 8 or 9 years old in age but, he spoke with the detachment found in most adults. It reminded him of the woman who left him alone. Raven. If she wasn't a human, he might've mistaken the reply to be hers.
"Do you know how to get out of here?"
"Go back... Back to where you came from."
"I wish I could, but, I don't even know how I got here," he scratched his head. "I was grabbed by something that-"
Vulpine ears stiffened, standing at full attention at the mention of the mystery male behind them being dragged into this place. Unseen by Atsura, their eyes grew to the size of saucers. Tiny convulsions began to shake the youth as they slowly reached their feet; still, the enigma didn't turn around right away.
"Then there's only one way out of this place."
"What do you mean?"
Gradually, the vulpine twisted their body to face Atsura. That's when the sudden shift began to settle in the older Faunus' soul. That haunting feeling only grew stronger as a pair of glowing green eyes stared back at him. Blank. Empty. Callous. Those eyes bore into his soul even when he averted his own gaze. Along with that, the form of speech instantly became discernable as he took a few steps backward.
The boy tilted his head as if pondering something.
Atsura wasn't expecting this; how could he? He rationalized that he must've been dreaming or hallucinating. But, why did he feel the crisp air coating the air around him? How did he feel that he knew this boy?
As if reading his thoughts, the boy's lips split open, revealing a Cheshire grin.
"Haven't you figured it out yet?" His eyes fell black, reflecting the terrified fox from his soulless void. A black haze began to surge around the smaller Faunus only to have his body morph and contort until a shadowy figure emerged from the smog. "You were chosen to be MY vessel..."
Outside on the mid-level of Mistral's shopping district, Pyrrha, and Roxanne looked around a rather traditional Japanese clothing shop. While Ruby, Yang, and Weiss had continued arguing about where to hang out, the pair managed to get them to agree on checking out this particular store. They searched through various colors and designs of kimonos, not only for themselves but for their respective partners.
Why you might ask?
"Do you think Atsu would like this one?" Pyrrha held up a grey kimono with red claw marks on the back and trim.
The ram Faunus studied the outfit for a moment before nodding in approval.
"That is definitely Fang's style!" she gave a thumbs-up before grabbing a yellow garb with an orange dragon over a calm field backdrop. "Think Yang would go for this?"
"I believe she would enjoy that very much!"
The two laughed among themselves only to find themselves bombarded by an excited Nora waving around a green kimono with a pink cherry blossom tree on the back.
"It still has nothing on what I'm getting my Ren for the festival tonight!" she announced, flashing a mischievous look.
"Still, I hope the boys aren't getting into trouble..." Blake chimed in with a black one with yellow trim.
The others agreed, nodding and imagining the misconduct they might find themselves in. Still, they wouldn't let these ideas ruin their moment as Roxanne burst the ill-fated thoughts.
"Maybe we should turn our focus on what WE'RE going to wear tonight? While the guys are prone to do something dumb, there's only one form of 'trouble' that I'd want to get into if possible."
Blake, Nora, and Pyrrha couldn't hold back the pink hue that burned their cheeks as less than innocent thoughts began to surface in their minds. It wasn't that they haven't imagined those... intimate moments. Simply put, they hadn't imagined that they'd be able to initiate something at this point in their lives. Nevertheless, it provided a greater motivation for the girls as they searched for their own clothing to wear for the night to come.
Atsura had to duck and dodge as the umbra figure began slashing at him from all directions. After being informed of the creature's plot, he hadn't been given a chance to even grab his own weapon to defend himself. His legs were growing tired from avoiding each and every ferocious attack. All the time, the shadow continued the onslaught, giggling maniacally.
"Just give in and let me destroy you!" The dark fox cried out, stabbing at the air.
Atsura was only able to roll out of the way. His mind still couldn't fathom the fact that he was actually engaged with his inner demon of sorts but, the one-sided affair was steadily proving this to be a reality. His lungs desperately gasped for breath, only succeeding in drawing short spurts of the precious oxygen. Once more, the demon-like Faunus rushed at blinding speeds.
"You belong to me!" it bellowed only to stab its blade into the wall thanks to Atsura moving his head out of the way.
Thanking Oum for his reflexes, Atsura finally had an opening and he wasn't going to waste it. Thinking quickly, he kicked the entity in the stomach with as much force as he could muster. The creature growled in pain as it slid back. Once the umbra fox made it back to its feet, realization finally hit. It was no longer in control. Meanwhile, Atsura took a deep inhale and pulled Ngaungus from its sheath.
"Now, it's my turn..." he snarled.
His opponent, however, didn't appear intimidated despite not having its version of the large blade. This mattered little Atsura though who rushed in to end things. Even with his weariness, the fox had enough energy to cover the distance with his speed. The figure merely smiled that sadistic grin once more before flicking its finger.
Atsura would find out what this meant when the metal began grinding from behind him. A whistling sound screeched in the boy's ears just as the corrupted weapon sailed past him and back into the hands of the hellspawn. Grinning from ear to ear, it used their blade to block the attack.
"Nice try... Maybe there's hope for you yet, wuss..."
The voice became like his own, human or... human-like, that is. Soon, the dark image began to take on another form. Atsura's form. From the hair to the toeless boots, the creature was now the spitting image of the fox. 'He' wore a smug grin as he pushed the Faunus back.
"You think looking like me will give you an edge?" Atsura narrowed his eyes.
"No. I just want to get used to what I'll look like after I take over your soul and body." 'He' remarked coyly. "You think that Pyrrha girl will tell the difference?"
Rage filled the heart of Atsura Khan who released a low growl; a clear warning to the copy. Umbra Atsura simply traced it's devilishly long tongue across its lips before separating the blade into its dual katana form. That was the final straw as the real Atsura raced at speeds even he didn't realize he had. He didn't care about that though. He just needed to finish things but, the clone had other plans.
Several blows were thrown but each one was dodged expertly as the anger made each of the Faunus' moves sloppy and telegraphed. Umbra didn't even use the swords to block, instead, using his knees and elbows to land quick and efficient counterstrikes on the vengeful (soon to be former) host.
"Is that all you got?!"
"Shut up!" Atsura roared.
By now, all techniques and forms were abandoned as he swung wildly with blind fury. This was all according to plan as Umbra kneed the fox in the gut forcing all remaining wind from his lungs and dropping him. He never hit the ground though as Umbra caught him only to toss his body into the wall. Atsura landed with a sickening crunch but the pain wouldn't stop as a sharp agony shot from his arms specifically.
This was the result of the dual blades being planted in his palms. His cries echoed in the room as the altered katanas held him up in a mock crucifixion. The dark entity smirked wickedly as he approached the now defenseless Faunus. Atsura struggled as much as he could but, it did nothing to curve the truth stalking toward him. His eyes shuddered at the demented reflection was now inches from his face.
"Now now... Just relax and this will be over soon."
"Mffph!"
"You knew this day was coming... All that fight was simply in vain."
As Atsura raised his head to retort, he was cut off by a warped hand over his face, muffling him. Unable to fight back or speak, the boy could feel something taking over his body. It was like fire coursing through his veins as his need to yell out was silenced by the immense pain, the only evidence of the internal destruction showing through his dilating pupils and his trembling.
He was being subjugated and there was nothing he could do about it.
"Pitiful... How I was ever restrained by a weakling like you is beyond me. But no matter. I'll rectify that error in a moment," Umbra watched as the light began to fade from dual-colored orbs of his opponent turned victim. It would only take a few more moments and he would be Atsura Khan and thus, he'd be the one in charge. "I'll be a better huntsman than you could ever be. I'll be a stronger warrior without all the messy distractions like feelings and remorse. But, I think I'll keep the girl..."
With the last of his strength, Atsura peered up at the smug face of the dark figure upon hearing its intentions for Pyrrha.
"I think she'll be good enough to be my sex slave. What do you think?"
Silence.
"I knew you'd agree..."
However, somethings began to stir inside of the Faunus, certain things that the corrupted being would grow to regret.
Resistance. Perseverance. Survival. A muffled chuckle vibrated against the Umbra's palm, leaving him confused. Suddenly, the flow of energy began to pulsate in reverse forcing the sinister existence to remove his hand.
Before he could figure out what was going on, it found itself staring into the crimson eyes of Atsura, though the black abyss was absent from scleras. This wasn't a corrupted Atsura. No. This was a determined Atsura, one who was in a foul mood. As the vulpine stared at his dark counterpart, with a twisted grin that began to rival the spirit's as he pulled the blades from the wall.
"Don't. You. Dare. Touch her."
The pain coursing through his limbs didn't seem to bother him as much as the idea of someone else defiling Pyrrha. This was a fear that kept him awake when she was captured by his biological mother. The thought of her being hurt was a cruel reality but one that he vowed to avoid if he could, even if it meant he'd be the one to die instead.
Using his canines, Atsura pulled the first sword out, wincing slightly as the sharp side cut deeper. Ignoring the pain for the moment, he spat out the sword and pulled the other one out with the injured hand. If Umbra's goal was to blow out the last of the dying embers, it failed miserably. Instead of extinguishing the flames, the copy only made the blaze burn more brilliant.
Eventually, a dark cloud began to swirl around Atsura who simply glowered at the now nervous Umbra who flinched at what it was witnessing.
"What is going on?! How can you still have any power?!"
Atsura just gazed at the shivering being with piercing eyes as his frown deepened. He was pissed but, the enraged and erratic fox-boy was nowhere in sight. This was a methodical and calculating opponent.
The tables had turned and the Umbra knew it.
"Come on..." he finally spoke, making the figure shed its skin in shock.
"No... not now!"
With no other options, both aspects of Atsura's soul clashed, neither armed with anything but their fists. Blow for blow, they'd fight once more but, it was clear who held the advantage now.
Left to a right to an uppercut combo stunned the dark being. Atsura followed this up with his own knee to its gut, digging in with as much force as he could. This left the figure wheezing and clutching its stomach as the Cheshire grin returned only to turn upside down. The assault didn't stop though. Atsura continued punching and kicking the wounded entity until it collapsed on his knees.
"Please... Have mercy..."
But he wouldn't listen, the only form of mercy would be the defeat he'd hand him. Or, at least that's what one would expect. In truth, Atsura pressed his foot against the being's chest, kicking its battered form on the ground.
When that happened, he heard what sounded like a door opening. However, it wasn't the door he entered through but another on the far end of the room. If it was a way out, Atsura would take it if it meant he could leave this infernal creature behind him. With one final cold glare, the real Atsura turned to grab Ngaungus. But, when he knelt down to pick it up, he heard the war cry of the being from behind him.
In a last-ditch effort, the Umbra figure lunged at him with a hellacious roar.
Like he did earlier, Atsura noticed the telegraphed attack, spinning out of the way. What the specter didn't expect was for Atsura to swing his blade at the same time slicing its head clean off. It rolled on the ground before beginning to fade away. Atsura was content to watch until every particle faded away. When he was satisfied, the Faunus drug himself through the opened door, exhausted from the encountered.
The trail was long but, it reaped an unforeseen result.
Tired eyes found themselves gazing not at a sunny desert, but an eerily dim forest. Upon closer inspection, Atsura noticed that it resembled the forest where his journey all began. As he trudged further, the same voice from earlier filling his ears.
Welcome...
"Who's there...?"
I come not to harm but to reward you. You have proven yourself to be worthy of this gift.
"Gift?" Atsura raised an unconvinced brow.
Before him, a figure similar to the one he'd just faced appeared though, this one was much larger in size. It had no eyes or any distinguishing features to speak of saving for the feminine build. Still, whatever it was, there seemed to be no sense of danger present.
For completing this task, I gift you with a blessing. It is one that only the truly deserving. I give you the gift of the world before; the gift of magic.
Atsura's eyes widened at what he heard but he dared not test the patience of the being before him. He shouldn't have been surprised after hearing the story of Raven & Qrow. Still, he found himself uttering the foreseen statement.
"Magic... It really exists."
Yes, child. Magic existed in this world long before you were born. However, I can only bestow this gift if you choose to accept it. The womanly being replied. What is your answer?
Closing his eyes, Atsura took several deep breaths, pushing past the burning in his lungs. He thought of everything he'd endured just earlier, the pain and agony of facing his own inner demon. The anguish and horrifying feelings he knew in that moment of his darkness overtaking him, it would be a crime not to take the reward for something so traumatic.
When he felt he'd gotten his second wind, he nodded with confidence.
"I'll take whatever you have to give..."
Though he couldn't see it, the figure smiled at the mortal before her. Extending her hand, Atsura watched as a multitude of colors began to appear in a mini vortex. She then invited the male to step into it. When he did the sheer force around him became almost too much for him to take as the colors enveloped him. He wouldn't admit to anyone, but he was scared, yet that fear wouldn't force him to back down.
Not after what he went through.
Red. Green. Blue. Purple.
Each one melded into each other until it all morphed into a single blinding white. Then, it appeared before him.
Out of the four, only the purple orb remained in front of him; the others retreating back to their mistress. Hesitant for only a moment, Atsura reached out with both hands, cradling the violet force to his chest as if it were a precious baby. It flowed into him, infusing him with a cool yet, comfortable sensation that began to work within its new master.
He could feel it as his aches and wounds began to dull and fade away. Looking at his hands, even the holes from being stabbed steadily began to disappear. In only a few minutes, Atsura showed no sign of ever being in a fight. The figure observed in hidden amusement as dark-red orbs shifted back to their original hue, full of light and wonder.
"Wow... This is incredible!"
You have been given the power of the shadows. With this, you will be able to manipulate your own shadow as well as others. In addition to that, you can summon darkness itself to protect and manipulate how you see fit, though the latter effects are weakened when in the presence of light. You must be careful not to overuse this ability or you will exhaust yourself. Lastly, you are not to tell anyone of this gift...
That last part made the Faunus stop his amazement to flash a suspicious glance.
"Why not?"
There are souls who wish to use these abilities to their advantage. They wish to harm others with these powers that are reserved only for those who are truly willing to sacrifice everything to protect what they hold dear to themselves. Do you understand now?
Atsura wasn't 100% certain, but, he'd obliged the figure.
"Won't people ask questions?"
I think "Shadow" is a fitting name for an evolved 'semblance', wouldn't you say?
Sighing, there was no doubt that this being was clever, if not smug as well. He agreed and bowed as thanks for this amazing ability before looking back to the path for which he came. He'd find himself faced with another blinding flash that shrouded him completely.
"Atsura?"
"Relax!" Sun fussed. "Give him some air, Jaune."
The glaring light began to give way to clearer vision, three worried faces slowly appeared in the eyes of Atsura Khan. First Lie Ren. Then Sun and after, Jaune. Slowly, he began to sit up, feeling heavy and... damp?
"Huh... What happened? Guys?"
"You fell in this lake but we were able to pull you out," Ren answered. "It seems that you blacked out for a moment so we kept you here until you woke up."
"How long have I been out?"
This time, Sun spoke up with a lopsided grin. "Thankfully, only a few minutes. Good timing since I just got a message from the girls."
Only a few minutes? That can't be right... Atsura shook his head, feeling the weight of his wet hair.
"So, what did they want exactly?" the fox wiped his brow.
"They want to go to a festival tonight and they left us something to wear for the occasion," the blond interjected. "But, I could make an excuse for you not to go if you're not up to it. I'm sure fainting and nearly drowning would be a good enough reason..."
Atsura just looked at Jaune Arc for a moment before getting to his feet.
"Thanks, Jaune. I'm alright though; We should get going so I can get cleaned up."
With that, the boys all nodded in agreement before rushing off back to the elevator, but Atsura took one more glance back only to find the lake disappear before his eyes. Whatever its purpose for existing was, it was served and once he held out his hand, finding a swirl of black in his palm, it was clear that what he imagined to be a dream was indeed real.
"Yo, Fang! Hurry up!"
"Right... On my way!"
As he ran to join his friends on the ascending elevator, a cloud of black smoke began to float away, returning to that from whence it came.
Salem sat in her room, patiently waiting for the return of her assault squad. If things turned out well, she'd congratulate her subordinates for claiming the relic of knowledge and bringing her one step closer to her victory. If they've failed, may Oum have mercy on them, because she had none to give for failure. Still, she spent the time calculating plans and strategies while adjusting her hair when a familiar feeling washed over her.
Turning to her window, a black mist began to pour into her chamber only to form into a seer Grimm. Unlike the others, this one was pitch black outside of the clawed tentacles. Salem knew that this one was a special breed created for one purpose.
"What have you to report?"
The screen began to project a hologram of a Faunus. She instantly recognized the vulpine features as scenes of his battle and subsequent acceptance of the dark power played before her. Though his reasons for accepting the powers were far too moral for her taste, the smile that formed on her lips never faltered.
But why? Why would Salem, the mistress of Grimm be happy that a student and follower of Ozpin now possessed magic?
The woman replayed the battle until she came to the moment when he pulled out the sharp blades from the entity, ignoring the sharp pain so that he could defeat and destroy his adversary. That was the type of tenacity that she possessed herself. Anyone willing to sacrifice their own personal safety for the greater cause was someone she could respect.
There was something else that made the ghostly woman's smile grow even larger, though it wasn't sadistic in nature. Instead, Salem had a calm and gentle smile as she realized her back-up plan had now gone into effect. After Ozpin's betrayal so long ago, Salem figured she needed a back-up plan that would initiate whenever a maiden was found. If her ex-husband could use his magic to create the four maidens, then she would do the same by creating four children of Grimm to even the odds in terms of battle and warfare.
"Welcome to the world, my dear revenant. May you find your siblings soon."
After getting cleaned up, the boys were greeted with a note from the girls along with what appeared to be kimonos and hakama for each of them. Even Weiss was kind enough to get one for Jaune who was just as surprised. Once they were dressed, Sun grabbed the card to find the location to meet with the ladies.
As the sun's descent was nearly at completion, the stars shined in dazzling brilliance as the girls waited near a flower field. Each was dressed in elegant kimonos aside from Roxanne and Yang who had matching ones that bore the same dragon. They even allowed a bit of cleavage to show, though their breasts were firmly taped up in case they wound up in a good scrap.
Weiss looked stellar in her icy blue kimono that had snowflakes adorning the outfit. Ruby, though reluctant at first, was grateful that she could wear her hood over her black and red top. Blake had hers in black with a crescent moon on the back that lazily hung over her left shoulder, hoping to give a certain monkey boy a good view. Nora, being the rebel she was, kept herself covered for one reason and one reason alone; Ren. She had a sneaky grin on her face as she scanned through the crowds of people in hopes of spotting her beau. Last but not least, Pyrrha wore a simple red kimono though she chose to wear her hair down, rather than her traditional ponytail.
"Where are those knuckleheads?!" Nora groaned, getting more agitated by the second.
"I hope those dorks didn't get lost..." Blake blushed slightly.
"Here we are!" Sun announces giddily, catching the girl's attention.
What they'd find nearly made their jaws drop.
Jaune was the first to appear, surprising Weiss & Ruby with how good he looked in the garments. He wore the silver and red-trimmed kimono in its standard form but, it did make the one known as 'Vomit Boy' more presentable, even if he still had his dorky grin.
If Blake was hoping to seduce Sun Wukong with the subtle style of her outfit, he'd take the scale to an 11 when she showed up with the kimono hanging from his waist, revealing his toned body. The tint of pink quickly tuned to a beet red as naughty thoughts began to fill the cat-girl's mind.
Ren would keep the bulk of his kimono on but, he opted for a more rogue-like look by draping his left arm from the bottom hem of the outfit and having his hair tied in an updo wolf's tail. Nora immediately started drooling before rushing the quiet boy and smothering him with kisses, much to the amusement of most of the gang, and the disgust of one Weiss Schnee.
Pyrrha didn't mind though; her eyes were focused on the dark-skinned Faunus in the ash-grey kimono. Unlike Ren, Atsura let his hair fall down to his mid-back and similar to Sun, he had only half of the garb on his left side with the right side completely open for viewing. The seductive gaze from the red-haired girl told him that she approved. Of course, Atsura couldn't resist the amazing sight of his girlfriend dressed like an aristocratic monarch.
"Wow, you look amazing, Princess Pyrrha!"
"Thank you. You look rather... dashing yourself, Prince Atsu."
Unable to find the words to continue the conversation, he simply chuckled.
The gang took a few pictures together before departing their separate ways for the evening. Given the festival, the events were as you'd expect. There were plenty of games to play and prizes to win.
Jaune escorted both miss Rose and Schnee, managing not to make a fool of himself. They ate and had a pleasant conversation about their upcoming trip to Atlas, mostly trying to comfort the troubled former heiress.
To get her mind off of that negativity, Jaune and Ruby took her to a special screening of Ninja Princess which Weiss actually enjoyed. Sure, it was a silly film but it was exactly what she needed to take her mind off of Atlas and her father. They managed to get some delicious sweets, making the hyper leader of team RWBY all the more delighted.
As for Jaune, he was just happy being able to spend some time with those he cared about. It wasn't something he'd consider a date, but it was fun all the same. He played a few festival games and even won Weiss a plush bear that matched her kimono. When Ruby began to pout, he tried again but failed to win anything. This didn't upset Ruby though. Instead, she was grateful for the boy's effort, and the extra snacks she got as a consolation.
Blake and Sun didn't even stay for the festival long. In fact, after seeing Sun's style of dress, Blake Belladonna decided to grab some food to go and they snuck off to a more private area where they wouldn't be disturbed. It was clear that the two had grown very close and, after buying some rope when the boy wasn't looking, Blake was going to play a special game when they got home.
Nora and Ren remained in the garden area, the latter wanting a more relaxing and peaceful experience.
With the cherry blossoms falling, Ren felt hesitant to try anything with his lifelong friend and partner. It wasn't that he didn't want to, it was still something he was getting used to. Plus, the scene of Nora showered with cherry blossoms under the full moon made his heart stop at times.
Unlike earlier, Nora didn't pounce on the boy. Sensing his hesitation, the strong girl decided that a more gentle approach would suffice. Ren felt her hand slip under his own, pulling his attention from the romantic view around them. As their eyes met, Ren felt something else wash over his body; courage. This feeling pushed him to pull Nora closer only to be met with a 'boop' to the nose.
Chuckling to himself, he felt himself being pulled down into a deep and loving kiss from the girl. When they parted, the sounds of upbeat music started, prompting the girl to pull her lovestruck boyfriend to a fun dance to which Ren happily obliged.
Yang and Roxanne sat on the edge of a cliff watching the serene display. Normally the brawlers, fiery and ready for war, the two girls were grateful to be able to just enjoy one another's company. For Yang, she was content with spending quality time with her partner and closest confidante outside of her sister. For Roxanne, while Atsura was her fighting partner, she truly grew close to Yang Xiao Long in a way that she never could with the fox.
"Yang?"
"Hmmm?" lavender eyes drifted to auburn hair.
"I'm really going to miss this..." Roxanne blushed, cursing herself for chickening out.
Yang realized this and found it rather cute that her girlfriend was getting flustered. Sure, they'd only been officially together for a few months at this point, but it was enough for the two to truly understand when the other was deeply abashed. Yang sought to comfort her by reaching for Roxanne's right hand only to stop suddenly when her left arm began to shake violently.
"Yang? What's wrong?"
"It's nothing..." Yang grabbed her trembling limb.
However, just like a few seconds ago, Roxanne knew that this was a sign of an internal struggle within the shining dragon. Slowly, she reached for the shivering hand, caressing it while gazing deeply into her lover's eyes. The shame from her PTSD was evident though it did little to sway any affection directed toward Yang.
"You don't have to be strong all of the time, sugar. I've seen your soul..."
Her voice was but a whisper, yet it was loud and clear for the blond who felt her chest hitch at the kindness. She nodded, trying had to wipe away the tears that slipped down her cheek. Once more, Roxanne gently stopped her from doing so, alternatively leaning in and placing her lips against the girl's cheeks. One then another, the drops of Yang's fear and trepidation were kissed away by the Faunus, replacing them with love and harmony.
"Roxie..." she sniffed with an evergrowing grin.
"Oops. I missed a spot."
Roxanne leaning in again, cupping Yang's face and gently pressing her lips against her beloved's. At that moment, Yang swore she could feel and hear fireworks in her head as she melted into the embrace.
Wait. That's not in my head!
Sure enough, Yang pulled away just enough to see that there were indeed fireworks being shot in the air for the festival. That did little to stop the girls from initiating another liplock, this time with Yang leading the charge. Her attempt was more forceful but not lacking in desire and passion. Tongues wrestled for dominance with neither gaining ground over the other.
When they finally pulled apart again, Yang rested her head on Roxanne's shoulder as they watched the colorful explosions off in the distance.
"So, do you really?" lavender locked onto orange gems.
"Yep."
"Nope. I want to hear you say it."
"Come on, Yang!" Roxanne huffed.
"You come on...!" Yang teased, gently licking the girl's ear.
Shuddering, Roxanne Octane, finally relented.
"I love you, Yang Xiao Long. Happy?"
"I am and I love you too, Roxie Octane."
With fingers interlocked, they enjoyed their stalemate; the only time either girl accepted anything other than a W.
For them, the victory was in the engagement.
Disclaimer: Fluff/Lemon warning
As the festival was in full swing and everyone having their own fun, Atsura and Pyrrha spent most of their time walking around and taking in the atmosphere, they spent a couple of hours enjoying the festivities. From playing a few games to trying out the cuisine and even watching the fireworks, the pair decided to call it an early night. Like the other couples, both just wanted to share some time together without any fighting or Grimm involved.
Their trek brought them back to the house only to find that Oscar and Qrow were nowhere in sight.
"I guess they left to enjoy the festival too?" Atsura shrugged.
"It would appear that way," Pyrrha smiled, tugging on the hem of her kimono. "I couldn't begin to fathom how long it'll be before they return."
Atsura, not paying attention at first, stopped to look over at the spartan girl. Her cheeks were flushed and it looked as if she was biting her bottom lip lightly. If he couldn't pick up the signs at that point, he might as well pencil in his name for the dunce of the year award alongside Jaune.
Without another word, he closed the gap between him and Pyrrha to capture her lips with his own. Soft and gentle at first, Pyrrha felt something welling up inside of her that she hadn't felt before. While she normally savored his gentleness, this time felt like a tease. Right now, she didn't want safe and soft, she wanted something primal, her urges steadily taking hold.
"Atsu..." she moaned in between light pecks. "Please."
Pulling away, the Faunus noticed that Pyrrha's eyes were glazed with something he hadn't seen before: Lust.
The way she stared at his body.
That gleam in her gaze.
The sensual smirk.
Atsura was no fool. He read the signs and took the girl's hand, leading her upstairs to their makeshift room. As they approached their private quarters, the sounds of something creaking captured their attention for only a second before pressing on. By the sounds of things, the noises were coming from Blake and Sun's room but neither cared. All that mattered was having their needs fulfilled.
Upon entry, Pyrrha pushed her boyfriend and soulmate onto the bed before locking the door. She slowly stripped out of her kimono, slowly, to give Atsura a view of what was to come. Pyrrha Nikos excelled at a lot of things but stripping was not something one would consider for the list. She slowly swayed her hips, turning around so that only her bare back was visible.
"Do you... like this?" she mumbled, clearly a novice at dirty talk.
"I love it..." his voice shook as his pants tightened around his lower region. "But, are you sure about this, Pyrrha? I don't want you to do something you're not comfortable with."
Just like him to still be a gentleman... she mused silently.
Instead of answering, the half-naked warrior ceased her dancing and left the room, making Atsura feel bad. Had he insulted her? Did she suddenly have a change of heart?
He was thankfully wrong when he heard a distant knock followed by a short conversation that he couldn't make out clearly. He wasn't sure but he could've sworn he heard Sun say something about Pyrrha's body that made him want to hurt the monkey. Graciously, a slap could be heard from down the hall before Sun's complaint was muffled.
"Thank you, Blake..." he muttered.
"Are you sure you want to thank her?"
"I um... I meant for the..." Atsura suddenly stopped his stammering upon noticing that Pyrrha was holding a few items. "Whatcha got there?"
Pyrrha smirked deviously before shutting the door once more.
Her green orbs shined when she turned the lights out, bathing the room in darkness with only the moonlight to aid their vision. This was perfect though as Pyrrha was able to get the jump on the Faunus despite his ability to see in the dark.
She removed her kimono, allowing Atsura to see her in half of her womanly glory. Her breasts, while not as large as Yang's, were perfect for the boy. After close to a year of being together, this was his first time seeing the girl like this. She tossed what looked like rope onto the bed. She then began to peel the foxes outfit from his body, careful to let her finger caress his dark-brown skin, forcing a shudder.
"Does my Atsu, like this?" her voice dropped an octave. He merely nodded, unable to form a coherent sentence. "Good. Now lie down for me?"
Down to nothing but his boxers, Atsura felt like he was under a spell. The more he looked into Pyrrha's gaze, the more he was enchanted by her eyes. She took advantage, using the length of rope to bind the boy's wrists behind his back. As she weaved the soft restraints around his torso, Pyrrha could feel another part of his anatomy reacting to the treatment.
She couldn't see it, but Pyrrha knew where to seize her prize, caressing the twitching member through the material with feather-like touches. This earned her a sharp gasp of pleasure coupled with a wanting moan. This was something completely foreign to her, but it seemed that Pyrrha was enjoying her boyfriend's submission; and so was he.
Once he was incapable of getting free, Pyrrha slammed her lips against his own, moaning into his mouth as she placed a hand on his chest. He playfully struggled against his bonds, until he felt one of his nipples trapped between the girl's fingers. He could only shudder as she teased the spot, melting into her while dealing with the previously unexplored sensations coursing through his chest.
"Mmmm... Pyrrha-"
"Ssshhh," she pressed her finger on his lips. "We won't too far tonight. But, Blake gave me a few ideas."
Trying to make sense of things, Atsura opened his mouth only to have the red-head stuff one of her breasts in his mouth, silencing him again. Though he was new to this, Atsura instinctively began to suckle on her teat, moaning while she cradled and rubbed his head, encouraging his actions. Closing his eyes, the boy found himself lost in the moment, flicking his tongue over the sensitive flesh repeated as Pyrrha's melodious gasps and moans filled the room.
"That's it, Atsu. That feels so good!"
She alternated her breasts so that her beloved so pleasure both while she reached down into his boxers. What she found surprised even her upon pulling out the rather large tool.
Now that's a katana...!
While Atsura was preoccupied, Pyrrha grabbed a small vial of oil that she received from Blake and carefully poured a generous amount in her hand. The scent of cinnamon filled her nose as she lightly stroked the organ, feeling her love shiver under her warm touch. Slowly, she ran her palm up and down the shaft, still marveling at the size of it.
Though she was inexperienced at this, her conversation with Blake did help a bit in terms of the basics. Where her Atsu was reduced to just passionate moans and sharp inhales, suddenly transitioned into whimpers of pleasure that only turned Pyrrha on more. Still, she practiced restraint given the circumstances, but, she was going to enjoy what she could, however possible.
Remembering another tip, she leaned closer, whispering in his ear.
"Does my Atsu like when I play with him?"
He nodded, never once removing his lips from her bosom. She, however, wanted a clear answer as she lifted his head up with her free hand, her other having ceased its motions.
"I didn't hear you, Atsura."
"Yes. Please don't stop!" he begged, feeling the fire of his loins slowly vanishing.
Pyrrha was pleased again and resumed her act, this time taking her free hand down to the folds of her own lower region. Since she was already wet, there wasn't much she needed to do in order to achieve her own orgasm. The typically sweet and kind Pyrrha now relished in the newfound discovery as she was in control of not only her own climax but that of her soulmate.
It was a power she never realized she'd enjoy so much and yet, here she was, teasing and stimulating both herself and her partner.
"Ooooh. This feels so good Atsura!" she cried out softly, trying not to alert anyone else that might've made it back to the house.
"P-Pyrrha... I feel..."
Without warning, Atsura felt the boiling in his loins give way to the inevitable release, struggling wildly against his bonds to no avail as his first orgasm sprayed all over his stomach. Shortly after Pyrrha's climax began to wrack her body as well, making her shiver in delight. Before she could scream out from the intense pleasure, she felt her lover's lips slam against her own, muffling the cries of euphoria.
When their sexual highs finally subsided, Pyrrha, with the last of her strength untied the dazed Atsura only to collapse on top of him as the tingling in her stomach persisted. It was something rather amazing despite them not going all of the way, but, they both knew that they'd want that moment for a special occasion. Atsura managed to keep his eyes open long enough to grab the towel he used to dry off with to wipe up the bodily fluid as best he could before finally giving in to the call of slumber.
"Night, Atsu..." Pyrrha groaned happily.
"Night, princess," he faintly kissed her temple.
Author's Notes:
Thanks, guys for being patient with me! This is, by far the longest chapter written for this story and it's literally the finale for Volume 2. The next chapter will begin Volume 3: Winter and I am excited to get started. No spoilers as to what's coming since this chapter is practically 10,000+ words long. I will say that I've sown the seeds for a part of the narrative going forward.
I'll be starting with where the show picked up for Volume 6 of the canon and build from there. In the meantime, I hope you enjoy the chapter and keep loving and supporting the story! I appreciate you guys for even giving this the love you've already have. Have a wonderful day or night and see ya next time!