Disclaimer: I don't own RWBY and Tales of Berseria they are the rightful property of Rooster Teeth and Bandai Namco.
Italics are thoughts
Bold and Italics are flashbacks
Bold are artes being performed
**Communications through scrolls and other devices
("Ozping speaking through Oscar")
("Italics Ozpin speaking in Oscar's mind")
Chapter 66 In Memory
(Location: Atlas Military Base Argus coastline northern region of the Anima continent Kingdom of Mistral Remnant)
Well so far Velvet's experience since leaving Mistral was one to remember in a not so good way. Before leaving Ozpin told her and her brother everything, gave both of them the ability to turn into animals of their choose because that was their choice. Their train bound to Argus got attacked by Grimm mainly, because of the relic of Knowledge. Forcing them to separate from the others, defeated the Grimm ended up crashing in the middle of nowhere. Her students found the whole truth about the former headmaster from Jinn, the being that resides within the lamp relic, encountered more Grimm along a Code Red type, went to an abandoned farm that wasn't really abandoned and all the people were dead in their sleep, fought creepy looking Grimm yet the Apathy that can suck their will and energy, encountered more Grimm until finally arriving at the city. Who the hell were they still alive.
Too many close calls in the past but they were finally in Argus. So the older Crowe was more than relief to finally arrived. Reunited with Jaune and the others, met his oldest sister who is living in this city along with her wife and has a very cute baby boy. It was great, relaxing catching up while they were gone, ate shared a few laughs through embarrassing moments. It was all great, the long haired woman wasn't complaining. They really needed this break after all the crap they went through to get here. Now all they needed is find a way to get to Atlas. Qrow suggested to go to the military base stationed in the coast since it watches over all of Argus. That was their best shot at getting to the kingdom. No problem, they just needed and explain the situation. Unfortunately Jaune, Ren, Nora, Cardin and Laphicet already went there and things, didn't went their favor.
Okay, so they will go and check it out. Because, they thought it was no big deal. Maybe it was a big misunderstanding. They key was communication if everything goes well they might understand and give them a lift to Atlas. That was how they were hoping it was going to go. Yet, Velvet had a feeling it wasn't going to go their way. Pretty sure they were screw and they will have to find another way. How many times has she asked herself, she hates whenever she's right. As soon as she Team RWBY, Oscar, Qrow and Maria arrived at the base. The front gate was shut down in their faces. Not a word, not an explanation, they just closed down the gate just like that. It was very rude. Sure it was a military base and they're suppose to have security protocols. But, they didn't even gave them a chance to say a word. Again that damn bad feeling it wasn't going to be easy was in the older Crowe's gut.
The ones who closed the gate were two tall soldiers wearing the same uniform. It's like they were twins. Even their form and way of standing was exactly the same. Velvet tried not to rub her forehead. Things will never go easy for them, it has to be done the hard way. Or the crazy way and judging from their appearance it didn't looked like they were going to listen to a word. This is how the military of Atlas behaves, very strict and a pain in the ass. Explaining the situation was too complicated. Because there was no way they were going to tell them about the relic, Salem, the four maidens. They will immediately accuse them of being mentally ill and have them locked up for safety measures. Another great day was upon them, Velvet's sarcasm was getting worse with each day. Obviously it has to be Yang the first to react as she grabbed the front gate angry. At least she hasn't changed that much.
"C'mon! You didn't even hear us out!"
"Our orders are clear! The Mistral-Atlas border is closed!" said one of the twin soldiers.
"Please!" said the other.
"Have a good day!"
"But-"
"A good day!" they replied in unison.
"Hey, if you don't wanna believe that I'm friends with Ironwood-" started Qrow.
"General Ironwood!" they said in unison again.
"Yeah, General Ironwood, then fine. But look we have Weiss Schnee with us and we're trying to get her home safely."
"Ugh, this is annoying" Velvet has had it" look, can we at least talk to your superior? Whoever is in charge? We can sort this out in a civilized matter."
The twins looked at each other" approach!"
The former heiress got confused but what does she has to lose. Obeying she walked closer to the gate as the twins got a better look at her. The older Crowe was tapping her left foot hoping this won't take too long. They were in a hurry. Having a relic means they're putting this city in danger of a possible Grimm attack.
"Very well! You may speak with our commanding officer. We will fetch her at once."
"Hup-Hup-Hup-Hup-Hup-Hup-Atlas-Atlas-Atlas!"
Both turned their back and started walking very weird. They were truly so strange. Talking in unison, Velvet was so happy she and Laphicet weren't twins. It will be annoying to be talking like they can read their minds. Being different was way better. Now why was that annoying feeling still around. The former therion doubted it could be Winter in charge of this base since she returned to Atlas after the battle of Haven. So it must be someone else of a high rank.
"They were kind of…." paused Blake.
"Super weird? Huh, yeah" finished Ruby.
"Definitely weird, and creepy" said the older Crowe.
"Hm…." Maria stood in thought.
"What's wrong?" asked Oscar.
"Well I, may know this commanding officer."
"That's good isn't it? If she's your friend then maybe she'd be more willing to help us" said the silver eyed petite.
"I wouldn't exactly call us..."friends"."
"Acquaintances?" said Weiss.
"Not quite."
"Colleagues?" said Blake.
"Warmer."
"Rivals?" followed the former teacher.
"Getting hot."
"Enemies?" Yang's guess.
"That's the one!"
"Wait, what?" said the farm hand.
"Oh, yes. I come through here about once every ten years to get my eyes checked in Atlas. You bring outside cashews on one flight, and suddenly you're placed on additional screening list for life!"
"You've got be kidding me" said Qrow.
"She's going to be so happy to see you again. And it's going to make the situation easier for us to get to Atlas" Velvet's sarcasm was getting better.
"Now, now. Let's not give up yet. Maybe she's dead" the old woman smiled.
"Great…." the former daemon rubbed her forehead, definitely it's going to be the best experience meeting this person in charge, they might not be leaving Argus any time soon.
The front gate suddenly opened as the twin soldiers stood before the group. That was fast.
"Introducing!"
"Special Operative!"
"Caroline Cordovin!" they finished in unison.
Velvet sweat dropped. Do they really have to make such a big fuss to introduce someone. She may be in charge of this military base. But, it's not like she was someone that important. Ironwood or Winter didn't needed to be introduce with the purpose to be glorify for their ranks. Whoever was this Caroline must really be the arrogant type with an ego the size of Anima. The sound of heavy boots approaching as the group gazed at the person that has recently arrived. A short elderly woman with short silver hair and brown eyes. Wearing an Altesian uniform with black gloves and a dark gray belt. A glint sparkled on her right eye. The older Crowe had it spot on, she looked very arrogant. The kind of person who will see herself as the most powerful and important person in the world. The fact she and Maria were considered enemies according to the former huntress, didn't help in the slightest.
"This isn't going to end well."
Immediately Cordovin marched straight up to Maria. There were a lot of tension coming from these two.
"Witch."
"She-Devil."
"Hm, I've seen you've chosen larger contraband to smuggle this time."
"Oh Cordo. You know they say time changes people, but I see you've still got that stick right up-"
"H-Hello! Miss, uh Cordovin" Ruby immediately interfered stopping the elderly woman from finishing her sentence and pulling her arm down.
Velvet covered her mouth she was about to have a laugh if she has finished that sentence. Because it was true. Maria was a riot to have around.
"My name is Ruby Rose, and I was wondering. If you would hear us out about-"
"I've already heard what your other little friends had to say, Miss Rose. What are you doing back here? I thought I told you to leave!" Caroline glared not that far at Jaune, Ren, Nora, Laphicet and Cardin.
"And I told you we wouldn't rest until you let us through!" shouted the Valkyrie while the Arc and the magenta eyed teen were holding her.
"Nice to see you again as well!" said Ren.
"Hag!" said Cardin.
"Can you give us a lift to Atlas, pretty please?" said the younger Crowe.
"NO! Now leave at once!"
"I thought asking nice would help."
"Better watch it granny. Don't want your blood pressure getting too high. You don't want to get a heart attack?" said the Winchester.
"Insolent brats, all of them!"
Velvet didn't like that comment. Calling her students brats including her brother. She was asking for it. Yet, she remained calm and hasn't forgotten the reason they they were here.
"Hm…." Caroline went back to the other group of teens and adults" you civilians are clearly incapable of comprehending the importance of our mission here in Argus."
"Your here to provide security and safety for the people of Argus. It is your duty to make sure they're all protected from any kind of threat. Did I got it right?"
"Well, I'm impressed and who might you be?"
"Velvet Crowe."
Caroline stood in thought she has heard that name before. Specialist Winter Schnee has mentioned her during one of their communications. She was present at the Fall of Beacon, a survivor of that tragic event.
"I see. It is a pleasure to meet you Velvet. Glad to know that there are civilized people within this bunch."
"To correct your last comment, we're not civilians. I am a former teacher of Beacon Academy, these girls right here are Huntresses in training along with the group you kicked out before our arrival. This man is Qrow Branwen and he's a professional Huntsman also traveling with us. Oscar here is the only civilian present."
"Can't forget about the witch?" Cordovin grinned gazing at Maria while she was about to give her the finger when Ruby stopped her again" very well, I will give you a few minutes to hear your demands. Take heed that I might not be able to fulfill them."
Maria was actually shocked. This was probably the first time someone has actually stood up to Cordovin in a good way. Someone who can remove that stick from her ass and make her behave like a true soldier of Atlas.
"Qrow here knows General Ironwood for a long time. They're good friends along with the former Beacon headmaster Ozpin. We sent him a letter back when we were in Mistral. Letting him know of our situation and that we'll be eventually arriving at Atlas within the coming weeks. We can't say the reason because it is an" urgent matter". That is why we must meet up with him and speak to him personally. The future of Atlas depends on it. I can see you're very dedicated to your work and you're only following orders. But we must get there, we don't want to keep him waiting."
Caroline stood silent and in thought. She kept on thinking and thinking, and thinking. Until she gazed back at the long haired young woman.
"Explain to me this urgent matter and I might reconsider. I just can't let you go without knowing why you need to speak with the General."
"It's too urgent, he's the only one who must know. It's part of our mission."
"If you won't tell me then we're done here."
"We also need to get Weiss Schnee back to her home" the older Crowe pressed on" her family must be worried about her."
The former heiress rolled her eyes at the comment. Her father and brother could care less. Her older sister and mother on the other hand. Still, she wasn't happy with the idea of returning to Atlas.
"I will repeat myself, tell me your mission and I might give you a lift. For all I know you could be terrorists in disguise with the purpose to assassinate the General. That is something I will never allow!"
"Never allow!" said the soldier twins in unison.
"We're not terrorists. I meant what I said, we need to get to Atlas, speak with General Ironwood and drop Weiss Schnee. Qrow has his Huntsman license if you don't believe me" Velvet was really losing her patience, this woman was so stubborn.
"And I repeat if you don't tell me the reason you have to speak with him, the answer is no. Now, when it comes to Miss Schnee I'll be more than willing to give her a ride back to her home. However, only her is allow to come. None of her friends or those with questionable characters" Caroline gazed at the only faunus in the group.
Blake's cat ears went down. Of course this sort of thing should happened. Atlas is the kingdom which discrimination against is very high.
"Is there a problem?" the older Crowe gazed seriously at the older woman.
"No, it means we're done here. Good day."
Just like that front gate closed again right in their faces. Cordovin walked away along with the twins doing their weird marching and chanting.
"That old hag…." Velvet was so close to go to malevolence mode.
"CORDOVIN!" she shouted at the top of lungs" you're making a big mistake! Ironwood KNOWS we're coming to Atlas and when he realized we're not there yet, he's going to do something about it! Like send someone on his behalf to look for us. Maybe he will go himself and when he ask us why it took us so long, we will tell him it's because of YOU for not lending us a hand! Someone from Atlas, his own military!"
By now Caroline was long gone. Everyone was shocked at their former teacher's behavior. She was so angry she was ready to erupt like a volcano.
"I hope you get FIRE!"
"Now what do we do?" asked Yang.
"Guys I…." paused the white haired girl.
"Weiss, we meant what we said. We won't leave your side. We'll find a way to get to Atlas" said Ruby.
"Even if it seems impossible" muttered Blake.
"I'm off. I need a walk" Qrow started leaving.
"Where you're going?" asked Nora.
"Need some time by myself. Don't worry, I'm not going to drink. Just need to gather my thoughts."
"So he's not going to stay with us? We're suppose to come up with a plan" the Valkyrie wasn't happy.
"Guess it's back to square one" said Cardin.
"I'm sure Ozpin knows what to do. He always knows" said Jaune.
Everyone stood quiet. They still didn't know the truth yet. It was a better time to tell them since they had no idea how to get to Atlas so far and they were out of ideas. This isn't how Velvet wanted things to go. So much for Cordovin seeing the light, damn hag.
"Let's head back to Saphron's house and think of our next move. But first, there's something you guys need to know."
Laphicet lowered his gaze. From the looks of it, Team RWBY already knows his sister must have told them while they got separated. It will explained Qrow's behavior why he wasn't feeling like his usual self. They obviously didn't took it well and the others won't take it well either. But blaming Ozpin isn't the answer to solve their problem. The younger Crowe hasn't lost hope that there's something that can be done against Salem. They needed to believe, not to give up, keep going. It wasn't going to be easy. He was still having a hard time believing it. That it was all true. Not saying another word, the group started leaving the military base heading back to the city. Velvet, however was still looking upset about what happened with the She-Devil. The nerve, maybe they put her in charge of this base because they wanted her far away from Atlas. It will make sense.
Maria was walking next to the former teacher with a smile on his face" I gotta hand it to you. I never thought someone will stood up to Cordo, the way you did."
"I hate her" she replied flatly.
"Join the club."
"She really does have a stick right up her ass."
"I'm happy someone agrees with me."
Once everyone arrived at Saphron's home, they took a seat. Others wanted something to drink so Jaune went to get some water. After Velvet gazed at everyone. None of RWBY, Oscar or Maria will tell them. They were expecting her to tell them so she won't argue. They needed to know too because that's what she wanted. Ozpin was supposed to tell them but, he was unavailable at the moment. The older Crowe believed he was still listening. The former headmaster can't just lock himself in Oscar's mind. The young woman took herself a short break as they were waiting what she wanted to tell them. So Velvet told them everything Ozpin told her and everything she witnessed by Jinn's vision of the past. The birth of humanity at the hands of the Gods, brother of light and brother of darkness and that they all had the ability to cast magic. Salem's origin and how she was rescued from her prison by Osma who was Ozpin's original form. Everyone paid close attention.
How the two fell in love and his death because of his illness. Salem begging the Gods to bring him back, the argument of the brothers whether to bring him back or not. Until they decided it was better for Osma to rest forever. This really got their attention. Ozpin truly died so how the heck was he still standing to this day. Well not standing exactly but his soul and conscious merged with a teen. Velvet resumed her story how Salem refused to let him go until she was turned immortal and needed to learn a lesson to know the importance of Life and Death. How she hated the Gods for what they did to the point she turned humanity against them. The events that led to their destruction and the departure of the brothers. This shocked, Jaune, Ren, Nora and Cardin. So basically it was the end of the world. But the world remains and Salem was all that was left of humanity. Until she went to the Land of Darkness and changed her appearance becoming part Grimm.
The God of Light giving Osma a choice to return to the world but he only wanted to join Salem on the other side believing she was dead. Until he found out she was still alive because she was immortal. His warning of the return of humanity and created the four relics giving him the mission to unite the species. Until his task wasn't completed he will continue to reincarnate. The relics brought together will summon the Gods and they will once again judge humanity. Basically it will be the destruction of the entire world if they were still divided. That was impossible with how much crime, hatred and violence there is in the world. So Velvet resumed to tell them the rest of Ozpin's journey and how he reunited with Salem. That both decided to save and unite humanity even through the God of Light's warning that she wasn't the same person he once met. Both become the rulers and saviors, and the people saw them as Gods.
They even built a castle for them and the birth of a family. Four girls with the ability to cast magic since humanity lost that ability when the Gods left the world. The original four maidens. Ozpin's choice to leave because he realized Salem has truly changed and not for the good. Their first fight while letting their daughters escape to safety. His first death under the curse of reincarnation. How he spent lifetime after life time fighting her, while others living in regrets, drinking his sorrows. But he eventually realized he still needed a mission to fulfill so he continue to fight the Grimm and Salem. Until he can bring humanity together in peace. Velvet took a pause looking that they were really into the story, in awe and shock. Now the bad part was coming. Ozpin gathered the Lamp of Knowledge telling them that it has the ability to summon the being Jinn that can answer three questions every one hundred years.
Among those question he asked the being how to stop Salem. The answer, he couldn't. The older Crowe stopped retelling all of the events she and the others saw. There was a long silence after she was done. That was the inevitable truth. Salem is immortal and she can't be killed. The former therion added that Ozpin wants to gather the relics and the maidens and keep them safe from the Grimm Witch. But he didn't had a plan how to stop her. That will be the tipping point that made RWBY and Qrow angry at the former headmaster. And she was expecting the same reaction from the others. So she waited until the realization will hit them. Ren and Nora weren't happy, Cardin followed looking upset. As for Jaune the blond was silent, in thought. This was making Velvet worried. It shouldn't take him so long to come to realization. Or maybe, he was in denial. As she expected, he was taking this harder than the rest.
"Jaune?" said Ruby worried.
The Arc got up as he slowly walked over to a wall. Velvet could see the anger in his blue eyes. Looks like it hit him now and he wasn't taking the news lightly. He punched the wall creating a crack. Saphron and Terra Cotta weren't going to be happy when they arrive and see that on their precious wall.
"Everything we did was for nothing!"
The older Crowe stood silent. She wanted to help him, give him some comfort. But maybe this was the sort of thing he needed to adjust himself. Then again she thought Qrow will be able to help himself and his actions almost caused the death of his nieces. So she will keep an eye on the blond leader.
"That's not true" said Blake.
"Really? Cuz it sure does sound like it" said Nora.
"I, um…."
"If Salem can't be killed, then how are we suppose to win this?" asked Ren.
There was a short silence. Nobody said a word.
"Wow, great plan everyone" said the upset Arc.
"Look, none of this is great we know. But we're not the bad guys here" said Oscar.
"Are you sure about that?"
"What?"
"He's in your head, isn't he? Did you already knew about this" the blond marched straight at the farm boy.
"Jaune…." started Velvet.
"He didn't know any of it!" Weiss defended.
The Arc grabbed the teen pinning him to a wall" how much longer can we even trust him? How do we even know it's really him? What if we've been talking to that liar this whole time?"
"Let him go!" Laphicet attempted to get him off the teen.
"ENOUGH!" Velvet finally snapped making the blond knight to stopped his actions" he did knew. But that was because Ozpin told me and Laphicet, he told us everything."
"What?" he was shocked" when?"
"The night before we left for the train station. I made him promise me that he will tell all of you when we arrive to Argus. Unfortunately it didn't really went according to plan. Team RWBY and Qrow found out earlier when we separated from you and the rest."
"You knew all along and you didn't bother telling us? You didn't bother telling me? I thought I mean something to you?"
"Don't you dare guilt trip me! I wanted all of you to know the truth because you all deserved to know it. Ozpin gave you all a choice and you chose."
"That was before we found out about all of this!" said the Valkyrie.
"And I ask you now, does it change anything? No, don't answer the question now. I understand how you all are feeling. I was angry too but I did a lot of thinking. Ozpin isn't the enemy and it's not his fault the world is currently the way it is. We can't forget why we're here. To stop Salem, the relics, the maidens. Just because she's immortal it doesn't mean she should give up. I want all of you to take a break. Get some space, think things through. Please…."
Ren was the first to give a nod as he left the room. Nora followed but she was still upset.
"So that's it? Game over, no retry. Can't win the big fight if we can't beat the big bad. This sure sucks" Cardin got up leaving the house, probably to get some fresh air.
"Jaune-"
"Don't say anything!" he suddenly snapped at her shocking the older Crowe and everyone.
"You have every right to be upset. We were all upset to know the truth."
"You kept this from me Velvet, ME! I'm not an expert on relationships. But if we're together were suppose to trust each other to the bitter end. Not to keep secrets between us. I have been honest with you from the very beginning. And you do this to me?! Do I really mean something to you?"
"How can you even ask?! Of course you mean something, you mean everything to me!"
"It wasn't her fault!" Laphicet interjected" I knew too and I chose to kept the truth from you guys. Don't blame Velvet. I'm to blame too. You want to take your anger then take it on me, not her!"
"Guys…?" Ruby failed to calm everyone, there was so much tension in the air it could probably cut through the air.
"It doesn't matter anymore. Don't you see? It's over. There's nothing we can do. There's no stopping Salem, there's no need to continue this false journey. Because everything we've done has been for nothing. Everything we've been through is for nothing."
The older Crowe was tearing up seeing her boyfriend was in the same shape. It was killing her to see him like this. Like her heart was getting by a very sharp and cold knife.
"What you went through was for nothing. Being in a coma for six months" the tears finally fell" Pyrrha died for nothing. She's dead because she made a choice made out of nothing. She's gone for a meaningless cause, her sacrificed was in vain."
That was it. That was the last draw. Velvet's anger kicked in as she has slapped Jaune so hard on his left cheek. Everyone in the room gasped not seeing that coming. The tension has gotten worse. The Arc touched his cheek that was burning and hurting from the slap. The red mark of her hand was right there. He gazed at the young woman as she was in tears. But even so, there was a lot of anger in those chest nut eyes. The girls didn't know what to do. Leaving will be the obvious choice but they couldn't move. It was the same for Ren, Oscar and Laphicet. What the Arc said was a big mistake, they knew it. And they wouldn't want to be in his shoes right now.
"Take that back" she whispered loud enough for everyone to hear.
"…..…..."
"I said take that back NOW!"
Instead, Jaune ignored her and left the house. There was another silence after he was gone. Velvet got angrier, without looking at anyone she went after him. Another silence resumed as the rest of the group just stood there.
"We should do as Velvet said and take a break. Let's all get some space. I'm sure we could all use it" said Ren.
"We're not going anywhere. Might as well take some time for ourselves" followed Nora.
Ruby decided to go to the backyard of the house. She was in awe it was so beautiful. Saphron and Terra Cotta have some nice taste. There were so many blue butterflies flying all over making it more beautiful. The red cloak girl decided to opened her scroll and give her uncle a call. No answer, she sighed of course he will ignored any incoming calls. Everything was falling apart and this wasn't helping. She got upset tossing her scroll it didn't landed that far from the backyard.
"You know, I came out here to avoid the yelling. You bunch were sure making quite the racket. It hurts my sensitive ears" said Maria as she stood seated on a wooden chair next to a small round wooden table, there was a dish with some fruits on it.
"Sorry. The others went to get food for tonight. With the exception of a few" her silver eyes softened thinking of Jaune and Velvet.
"Why not go with them?"
"I don't know. I don't know anything. What do I tell Jaune and his team when we don't even have a plan? Qrow went somewhere, don't know if he's drinking, Ozpin hasn't shown up yet and Velvet…Probably to beat up Jaune for saying the wrong thing. And there's always Jinn, but we only have one more question we can ask her. I feel like I'm letting everyone down."
"You know, you don't give yourself enough credit."
"Oh, thanks."
"That wasn't a compliment."
"Uh...What?"
"If I have to explain it to you. It will just defeat the purpose. But if you're tired of not knowing anything. How about we discuss those eyes of yours?"
"Oh! Yes ma'am, I would be honored!" she got up happily.
"Sit back down, for Pete's sake. Let's start with what you do know. Tell me."
"My mom had silver eyes. She was a very strong Huntress. Don't know if she was as strong as you but she was really something. I remembered people talking about her and even my dad and my uncle. She was really something."
"All Huntsmen and Huntresses that had silver eyes were powerful. Probably for that reason that they went extinct. Velvet might be right that they were probably wiped out by that witch Salem. But anyway, I don't want you thinking about the past. What do you know of the silver eyes?"
"From what my uncle told me, silver eyed people are supposed to be legendary warriors. Or something."
Maria raised an eyebrow, the girl was truly clueless. Guess she couldn't blame her if her family didn't tell her it's for a good reason. One, that she knows very well.
"And at the Fall of Beacon, I turned a giant Wyvern into stone."
"Oh, boy."
"Look, if I already knew about everything I wouldn't be asking for help."
"Yelling. It's not your fault. I had my father teach me, and even he didn't have all the answers. But what he told me makes sense, given what I've seen."
"Was he a Huntsman too?"
"It wasn't really an official title back in his day. I only knew him as an old soldier, and an excellent teacher. I never attended one of those fancy academies of yours, but I scored higher on the license exam than any Huntsman or Huntress that day."
"You must've been proud" smiled Ruby.
"He would've scolded me for showing off. He'd never been able to find much information about out abilities. Just legends of warriors whose eyes shown like mirrors, reflecting the light of the world onto darkness. He found so little, in fact that it made him cautious. How could such powerful bloodlines be so rare? Unless, something was actively seeking to destroy them. And Velvet made the point clear."
"Salem" the petite already knew from the older Crowe because it was that obvious seeing that the silver eyes can do to Grimm.
"I tried to keep my powers a secret. It wasn't enough. I owe my life to my training, and my semblance. At the end of the day, those are still your most powerful tools."
"What is your semblance?"
A lime fell from the tree and the elderly caught in an instant" preflexes! A silly name I came up with. Hard to explain, but I can sense everything better that most and react to attacks almost before they happen. Combine that with my training secret ability to turn Grimm to stone, or blind them, or vaporize them. And that's how you become the Grimm Reaper!"
"So, how I laser beam monsters with my eyeballs?"
Maria quickly hit her on the head with her cane" first, you stop thinking like that! I want you to think all the times you've triggered your powers. What did those moments have in common?"
"I was scared, and stressed. Is it emotional? Like unlocking a semblance?"
"It's emotional, but more focused than that. Think, what is it you wanted?"
"I wanted to protect my friends."
"Precisely! It is the desire to preserve life which fuels the light inside you. And to make no mistake, it is light. Preservation is an extension of creation. Or, at the very least an enemy of destruction. The Creatures of Grimm were made by the God of Darkness, but your light comes from his brother."
"How do you know that?"
"I always knew how to use the light, but never why it only worked on Grimm. Then, Jinn showed us her vision. Were you paying attention?"
Ruby remembered when the God of Light turned into his dragon form and used a powerful silver light to destroy all of the Grimm that were around the God of Darkness.
"The God of Light. His eyes. Okay, where do we start?"
"Well, not here. The light will only work in the presence of Grimm. Meaning the only practice you'll get will be a trial by fire. But, what you can do is focus on creating a state of mind that you can tap into when you need it. Don't think about your light as a means of destroying evil, but as a way to protect the people of Remnant."
"I get it. I will try to focus on my light. The first time I used the silver eyes it was because Laphicet protected me and he got hurt in doing so. I was so scared I was going to lose him. I wanted to protect him the same way he protected me. Guess that was enough motivation to use the light."
"Only one way to find out" Maria got up from the chair" time for your training."
"Now?"
"Yes, now. We'll go to the outskirts of the city and try to get the attention of some Grimm. Perfect for target practice."
"I don't think the two of us will be able to create enough negative emotions to attract any."
"Maybe. But, you do have the lamp?"
The silver eyed girl noticed she does have the relic of Knowledge tied on her belt" oh right, almost forgot."
"Let's get to it, before it gets dark."
As Maria reached for the door, sliding it she saw Velvet's brother. Laphicet gasped as his face turned red, embarrassed and nervous.
"Young man it is very rude to eavesdropped on a private conversation."
"I wasn't eavesdropping! Much. I only heard about the training part, honest."
"Sure" the elderly woman didn't believed him squat.
"Laphi, what's up?" Ruby smiled.
"I thought if you could use a hand on your training. With everyone's gone I don't want to stay alone here."
"That doesn't sound like a bad idea. Can he come too?"
"Hm, considering that you might have a few issues using your powers. I'm not expecting you will do it right on the first try. You will need some help just in case too many Grimm show up."
"We're leaving the city, right?" the younger Crowe was so happy.
"Yep!" the red cloak girl smiled back.
"To be young again" Maria could see that the boy has it bad for the silver eyed petite.
Jaune walked the streets looking deppresed. It was truly a beautiful city guess it was as beautiful as Mistral. Even if he didn't got the chance to travel the kingdom capital like he did here. Nice view, nice people it was perfect. They would hardly be any crime due to the strong influence the Atlas military has here. It's not like he was here to enjoy the scenery. Not after what he did. The blond leader was so angry with himself, he messed up bad. What was he thinking, how could he had been so stupid. He was too upset to see his mistake. He got carried away with Oscar and worse he yelled at his own girlfriend and made her angry in the process. Why would he ever do such thing when he loves her so much. Velvet is the love of his life, he wouldn't be who he is if it weren't for her. The Arc might as well written his death sentence and the end of his relationship with the older Crowe.
It couldn't be helped for reacting the way he did. Salem can't be killed, she can't be stopped. So they're journey is meaningless. Sure they can collect the relics and find the maidens but what good will it do if they can't defeat the evil behind it. But it was wrong to take his anger on Ozpin or better yet, Oscar. Then snapping at Velvet like that because he mentioned Pyrrha. Finding out they were fighting a way that has no end triggered him. It made him think of his partner, she chose to become the Fall Maiden and died for it. And it was all for nothing because Ozpin doesn't have a plan to stop Salem. So how should he feel, how should he take all of this. It was damn clear he did wrong and regrets his actions back at his sister's house. The blond Huntsman stopped as he decided to sit on the street realizing he was in tears. Velvet wasn't going to forgive him, she will murder him. Maybe he was exaggerating but not forgiving him and angry at him is more accurate.
"Stupid, stupid, STUPID! Great job Jaune, you blew it. That's not how a team leader should behave. I hurt Oscar's feelings but most importantly, I hurt Velvet's…How can I ever show my face? How can I even look into her eyes now?"
"There are many nice places in this city and you choose a street next to a gutter?"
Jaune panicked recognizing Velvet's voice. She has found him already. He knew she was going to go after him. Turning to the young woman, she didn't seemed to be angry. Maybe because his face was still filled with tears. The Arc dried them no, he couldn't look at her face, meet her eyes. Not after how he acted, he couldn't forgive himself. So he kept staring at the ground. She will probably beat the crap out of him and she has the strength to do it.
"Feeling better?"
"I feel worse."
Velvet decided to seat next to him" I'm still angry at you."
"I know and if you want to slap me again then go ahead. I had it coming."
"I told you. I understand why you're upset, everyone is. Ren, Nora and Cardin. When we first found out."
"I went over the line with Oscar and you. It's not right to get angry at the people who are my friends and my girlfriend. I mean, that is if I'm still your boyfriend."
"Of course you are, fool."
"I feel like I don't deserve to be after what I said. I'm sorry, I didn't meant to hurt your feelings. I have to apologize to Oscar too."
"I mostly got angry at you because you said Pyrrha died for nothing."
"I…." he paused" I didn't mean it. Finding out the truth really shocked me. And it hurts to know now after she…."
"I was there when she got killed by Cinder if you have forgotten."
"I should have been there. She was my partner. What kind of leader let's his partner get killed?"
"What kind of teacher lets her student get killed?" the older Crowe countered.
"Sorry for bringing bad memories. I'm so stupid. I shouldn't be bringing the past."
"She didn't died for nothing, it wasn't in vain. She chose to fight and die for everyone. For all of her friends. She thought she was doing the right thing when she volunteered to become the Fall Maiden. Ozpin never forced her and her death is another burden he has to carry."
"I know that better than anyone" the blond teared up feeling the young woman's arm around his shoulder, pulling him closer.
"This is her home."
Velvet blinked at him.
"Argus. It's Pyrrha's home."
"I thought she was from Mistral."
"So did I. But she graduated from Sanctum Academy here. She stayed Mistral to take her huntress in training exam until she left for Beacon. She's originally from here. Saphron told me because I told her she was my partner and she already knew because she watched the Vytal Festival when we fought Team BRNZ."
The former therion stood in thought. She never thought about it. Then again, she didn't heard much from the red head back in Mistral. Not to mention she never pay a visit to Sanctum. The circumstances were different when the fate of Haven was on the line. Even during the weeks after the battle, she took it to rest and catch up with her students. Maybe she was thinking too much or maybe, she still wanted to blame herself for her death.
"The people here knew her very well. They took her death badly. Saphron also told me that they built a monument to honor her memory. It's supposed to be in the park near the square. I hadn't had the guts to go there because I…I feel like I shouldn't. I'm still ashamed she died and there was nothing I could do."
The Crowe pulled the blond in her arms as he sobbed. How can she still stay mad at him. She teared up, she misses her too.
"I miss her Velvet, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry…."
"Shhh...Just let it out. I'm here, I'm not leaving your side. If you're feeling up to it, we can go and see the monument. Together."
"Yeah, that's sounds like a good idea" he smiled drying his tears" we should buy some flowers first."
"Right" she smiled before kissing his forehead.
Jaune's scroll started beeping as he picked it up knowing the id caller and number" what is it Ren? What? Are you sure? Okay, we'll meet up at Saphron's house."
"What's wrong?" the older Crowe had a bad feeling along with his expression.
"It's Oscar...He's missing."
Laphicet was expecting Yang to come along and give Maria a lift on her bike. They were going outside of the city because he agreed to help Ruby with her silver eyes training. The younger Crowe didn't had a problem being useful to the red cloak petite. This training was also important. If she can control her silver eyes power than it will make her easier to defeat Grimm. Not that she was weak or anything, she was pretty tough. But learning how to use this power will make her even tougher. So he did lied about eavesdropping a little. The teen mostly heard everything the elderly woman said. Those with silver eyes are basically descendants of the God of Light. And they have the power to destroy Grimm with their eyes. The light of creation that wants to preserve life. It also makes sense how to activate the power, wanting to protect life and the people that are important to the young reaper. Not to mention he blushed when she mentioned him.
No biggie, he won't mind going with them and help in any way he can. But the poor teen wasn't expecting that he will have to carry Maria on his back during the whole trip. Yang giving them a life on her bike was scratched out from the list. At least the old woman wasn't that heavy, he could think of this as some training for himself to work on his muscles. Ruby told him that she won't mind carrying her for him but of course he politely declined. As a man, it was his duty to do it. The petite leader will be doing more work during her training. The trip left the city border as they went further into the snowy fields. The elderly woman advice to get a little further from Argus to prevent any possible Grimm from getting too close. Even if the city was highly protected by the Atlas military. The younger Crowe was relief when he put the old woman on the ground.
"This spot will do. Ruby, did you brought the lamp?"
"Yep, right here" the red cloak girl showed the relic strapped on her belt.
"All right, then it shouldn't take them too long to come at us. But just in case we should make an attempt to create negative emotions."
"Like what?" this got Laphicet's attention.
He got his answer when a snowball hit his face. Ruby laughed but a snow ball also hit her face. Both teens removed the snow from their faces frowning at the old woman. Maria was already prepared with two snow balls.
"Have to do something to anger you. This is all I can think of."
Both teens dodged the snow balls. They gazed at each other, she has asked for it.
"Two can play that game Laphi, let's get her!"
"Yeah!"
"Wait! That's two against one, I'm just a defenseless old lady!"
Maria was now getting bombarded with snow balls. Poor woman couldn't get that far with her old legs. She wasn't as fast as she used to be. But she was able to use her semblance to predict the trajectory of the snow balls so she can evade them. Eventually she found a way to counter throwing more balls. It became an all out of war snow ball fight. It seemed the two teens were getting outmatch by the Grimm Reaper. The battle lasted for a couple of minutes until they got tired. Their bodies were shivering from the cold. Maybe it wasn't a good idea. Ruby was hoping having the relic will help more because honestly she wasn't upset, she was having fun. The same with Laphicet. Maria, was another story. A sudden sound caught their attention, they stood still. The red cloak leader heard it, turning to the younger Crowe he nodded hearing it too. The elderly woman picked up her cane about time. She was starting to get tired with the snow ball fight.
"Grimm?"
"No doubt. Okay Laphicet you will watch Ruby's back just in case she's having trouble unleashing her power. You'll be her back up."
"Got it" the younger Crowe made his weapon appeared.
"Keep an eye where it will show up. Remember what I told you. Keep thinking about those that are precious to you, your connection to them, how do you feel about them and the will to protect them. It's about protecting life not destroying it."
Ruby nodded as she took Crescent Rose. Keeping in mind Maria's words. The desire to protect her friends, her family, the will preserve life. The light of creation. Her expression was of pure concentration. Protect, preserve, the importance of life. Everything in her mind were all the people she loves, her mother, father, uncle, sister, teammates, friends, Velvet and Laphicet. Her guard was up as she heard something ahead from the pine trees. The younger Crowe saw it too, a Grimm definitely. A flying type and ground type, a Manticore. These were the ones that attacked the train to Argus. Maria was hoping she'll be able to do it on the first go. The youth was ready to cast an arte as the dark creature had it's sight on both of them. He felt a hand on his shoulder as Ruby had this under control. He trusted her so he let her fight it. It's like she was more than ready.
"Protect, not destroy. I want to protect them. I don't want anything bad to happen to them. I care too much for them, life, light, creation. Give me the strength to protect them all!"
"Ruby!" Laphicet panicked seeing the Manticore charging right at them.
Her eyes were glowing with silver light as it hit the Grimm straight on. The younger Crowe covered his eyes due to the brightness. A smile spread Maria's features. Looks like there was nothing to worry about. When the light disappeared standing before them, as the Manticore turned to stone. The red cloak girl finished it off performing a series of combos, slashing it from all directions. The Grimm statue broke into many pieces. She wasn't taking any chances if it breaks free.
"You did it!" cheered the younger Crowe.
"At least now you have an idea how to make those eyes of yours to work. Not bad" said the elderly woman.
"Yeah, I think I know now how to make it work."
"Don't get confident. You still need more practice before you can truly master the power."
"I know. But I took a big step today!"
"Maybe we should leave it here for now."
"Wait!" the younger Crowe heard something.
"Another Manticore?" Ruby wasn't letting her guard down.
"Stay sharp" replied Maria.
The Grimm revealed itself and it wasn't a Manticore. But a Yeti. The same type that were chasing them on their way to Argus. It was only one but they were still dangerous according to Qrow. The large snow Grimm went for the kill on the red cloak girl went Laphicet went in front of her and blocked his attack and countered with some swift moves. For someone so big, it was fast. Not giving the younger Crowe time to cast an arte.
"Ruby focus!" yelled Maria.
The silver eyed petite fired a few shoots at the Yeti. It didn't hurt it that mich. Laphicet was in trouble using her semblance to cut through it. It lost an arm but it was still standing. How tough was this thing.
"Remember! Protect life, your friends!"
Laphicet went for the attack now that it's attention was on the Huntress. He performed quick thrusts not enough to hurt it. Artes will have to do. Until Ruby released her silver eyes again. As the light vanished the Yeti was turned to stone.
"Laphi, you okay?" she was worried.
"I am. That Grimm was strong."
"And Velvet was able to take a large pack and a Sasquatch too on her own."
"I think that will be enough. Let's head back to the city before another one shows up" said the former Grimm Reaper.
Laphicet's scroll was beeping as he picked it up, it was his sister" hi Velvet. Where not that far in the city, why? What? Okay, we'll be right there."
"What's wrong?" asked the petite leader.
"Oscar has gone missing. Velvet want us back at Saphron's house."
Minutes later Laphicet, Ruby and Maria returned to the house of the older Arc. Everyone was already present. Minus Qrow and of course Oscar. Things weren't looking good as some were feeling guilty. Mainly Jaune, after he snapped at the farm boy. Now he was gone and they had no idea where could he be.
"Any word from Qrow?" asked Velvet.
"No. I tried calling him but he didn't pick up" replied Ruby her eyes softened obviously she was worried.
"Just when we need him the most" followed Yang not sounding happy.
"Anyone knows when did he ran off?" asked Blake.
"Most of us were out trying to get food. He could be anywhere" said Ren.
"Damn it. It's my fault, I shouldn't have acted like that towards him" said the Arc.
"Let's all calm down I'm sure he hasn't gotten too far" said Weiss.
"He wouldn't left the city. So we should search places near this house" followed the older Crowe.
"We should split up to cover more ground" said Laphicet.
"Okay me and Cardin we'll go west" said the blond brawler.
This really surprised the Winchester. Usually the blond would go with Blake or her sister. But him, for some reason he had a bad feeling.
"Nora and I can take the east side" said the magenta eyed teen.
"Blake and I will take north" said the former heiress.
"Laphi and I will go south" said the red cloak leader.
"Jaune and I will take the center" said the former teacher.
Everyone gazed at Maria.
"Don't look at me. I'm staying right here, I've done enough for today."
"Let's head out. We'll keep in contact when we find him."
To be continued
-I decided to leave the Velvet/Saphron conversation for the next chapter sorry. I know I said I would do it in this chapter but I changed my mind.
-I felt it was lame that Maria said she was willing to help Ruby with silver eye training and not do nothing at all. So I changed that giving her some quick training.
-Just to remind of everyone I have made a new poll for future Jaune crossovers but it is NOT 100% meaning that I won't write them it's just a general idea to see what the readers want. It's on my profile page so vote now.
-I have added a new challenge on my profile an AU Tales of Berseria story of Laphicet regretting becoming a sacrifice for Innominat and takes Velvet out of Abal before the events of the Scarlet Night and the Advent. Both become exorcists but by another organization that defies the world of reason of the Abbey.
-This story has officially reached 800K words here's hoping to reach a million in the future.
-Replying to reviews:
*calderoneric758- I'll see what I can do I still have plenty of time to figure out.
*Andromeda- glad you like it.
*Shadow Joestar- thank you for constant support and I hope you continue to like the story.
*CT7567Rules- I have a strong feeling Jacquess knows he's playing with fire accepting Watts help. I really hope he gets caught and gets arrested. I'm sure Whitley is just a victim who is trying to obey his father. Maybe with him behind bars he can finally be free and act like his true self. And thank you about the compliment of me being one of the writers. With v7 it seems the new writers Miles and Kerry hired are mediocre at its best and pretty much don't haven't seen the show. I still haven't seen Gundam Iron Blooded Orphans because there have been a lot of animes on Netflix lately.
*Je'daii 1298- I have to agreed. V7 is becoming v3 2.0 I was hoping something more original. Though I wouldn't if it was the same thing. The big problem they're not doing it right, more bad writing. That's why I haven't lifted my hopes up about this volume. Only way to find out if it will be as bad as v5 and 6.
*TheEmeraldMage- I think it's the right thing for Sienna to go after Adam, he did tried to kill her, betray her and overthrow her. This is why I think she shouldn't have been killed in the show. But she has to died wasting good potential. You know at one time I thought RT weren't going to make Blake and Yang fight Adam together to justify the ship, boy was I ever wrong. I'm glad you like the chapter in general and I will eventually stop teasing about Velvet's animal form soon. Agreed on Saphron and Terra Cotta being a good gay ship it even has better development than Bumblebee even when both characters show up like 2-3 episodes lol.
*Saint Saber Fang- I'll what I can do since I want to change Jaune's outfit when I reach v7. It's not that I don't his new outfit it's just I want give him something special and unique.
*TPoynt- I know and I find it so stupid everyone believes she's responsible for the attack. Asides that many of the people are faunus in which some of them should have night vision, also Penny's sword were glowing so they should be able to see that she was defending them not attacking them and here's the hardest face palm her swords didn't had any blood on them. Plenty of evidence to make her look she's innocent lol. Are they really that stupid? Oh wait, they're not it's the writers. I hope Ruby and the others talk to Robin about Tyrian and I'm hoping she believes Penny's innocence that the attack was done by a third party. Please don't make her stupid and ignorant like the rest of the people.
*M.H. Pintner- haven't heard from you in a while. I'll see what I can do with Proving his Worth since there aren't that many chapters left.
*strawhatroger- I don't care about the Bumblebee ship but they've been baiting it since the end of v6 and all of v7 so far. They should take a break from it. It's getting annoying. Look my OTP is Lancaster if there was actually a moment between Jaune and Ruby I'm not going to scream to the heavens" It's canon" I will smile. I smile when Ruby and Jaune reunited at Argus and they hugged it was a nice moment and the fact they focused on that hug could mean something. But anyway RT can do whatever they want. Also I don't see a problem with sharing my opinion on the show. If you think I'm whinny you should check out adel aka at YouTube he's very critical of RWBY and many fans call him a hater. I guess freedom of speech is illegal now.
*Gabriel443- muchas gracias espero que te siga gustando la historia.
*Rexclone22- hm interesting Grimm list except there are already mammoth Grimm The Goliath. I'll see what I can do for future Grimm since I'm also including daemons from the Berseria game.
SPOILERS for volume 7 episode 7 titled" Worst Case Scenario" I admit this episode was better than the last. We find out Watts hacked the security cameras showing Penny attacking the people instead of Tyrian. That makes sense. I like Blake and Yang learning from their mistake of taking someone's life and instead of capturing Robin they decide to talk to her, reasoning with her. Robin's semblance is awesome she's basically a lie detector test lol. Fiona's semblance is also cool shrinking things. FINALLY we get the long awaited answer to how Penny is able to manifest an aura because Pietro is giving her his aura. Poor guy won't last long I'm afraid he will die before the volume ends such a good character. No surprise that Watts was part of the team that built Penny. The episode ends with Jacquess making his first move as council man. He wants to remove Ironwood from his seat in the council. I bet that's also part of Watts' plan. If Ironwood isn't in the council he will lose power. All in all a 7/10 episode.
-As always thank you very much for the favs, follows and reviews I really appreciate it.
Next time: The Plan