AH! The part I've been so excited to finally write. These next few chapters, 47-50, will take place over the course of two days. So, I apologize if everything's moving at lightning fast speeds.
I really hope you enjoy this chapter because it's got a lot of plot points that are going to be important going forward in the story. Speaking of points - I was rereading some past chapters and realized I made a mistake on the names of RRGE - it's Reggie TEALE not Byz. So, I'm gonna go back and fix that soon for the sake of continuity. So, yeah, if it wasn't obvious yet - Reggie, the very same Yurei they captured from the Battle of the Docks, is Blue/Juno's mother. How she became a Yurei isn't important at the moment, but it shouldn't really be a question. But yes, Juno Teale is Blue.
ANYWAY
Disclaimer: I don't own RWBY
Chapter 47: Search Your Fear
Content Warning: This section of the chapter has some really dark themes that a lot of people won't be comfortable with. It expands on Blue/Juno's true past and what really happened the day she lost her antlers. You can skip it if you want. I don't blame you. You can start again at the next page break after this
Thank you for your business!
We hope you'll come again!
Oh, thank you!
No, it's no problem!
I-I appreciate the compliment!
"Juno, you okay?"
"O-Oh, yeah, I'm fine," the girl blinked, "promise!"
"Hey, don't pester the queen," someone giggled from behind, "she's got half the city's people in love with her. I think she's alright. In fact, I think she's fine."
"Haha, funny pun. A-Also, t-that's not true," she bowed, her giant antlers truly were gorgeous, "they just think I'm pretty. I'm not one to just ignore a compliment."
Her coworkers stared at her with deadpanned expressions, "y'know, you're too innocent for your own good, Juno."
"Or maybe I don't believe people are bad from the jump," she smirked, "both of you could learn a thing or two."
"Ooh, look at me, Queen of Faunus right here," her coworker laughed, "besides…not everyone can be beautiful. I mean, look in the mirror sometime, Juno. Shit, if I was a little older, your mom clearly got something to work with. We can see where the genetics came from."
"Ew, gross, don't bring my mom into this," she shuddered with confusion, "ugh, it was hard enough growing up with people trying to flirt with my mom in front of me, now I don't need you two trying to get with her."
"It was a joke, love," the woman laughed, "the day is slowing down. Go and get some beauty rest, Juno."
"A-Are you sure? I have a couple hours left on my shift," she said, "I-I can stay and help–"
"It's slowing down because people haven't realized you're still on the clock," her male coworker rolled his eyes, "if you haven't noticed – we kinda don't want to work right now."
"Heh," Juno blushed with embarrassment, "F-Fine…but I owe you."
"Now, don't put that kind of pressure on me, Juno," her female coworker raised her hands, "that's a lot of power gifted from a queen."
"S-Shut up," Juno laughed as she clocked out, "I'll see you guys tomorrow!"
"Be safe, Juno! I'll be late as usual," the man called.
"Of course, you are, doofus."
Juno ran to the back of the store, changing in the worker's restroom. Carefully removing her shirt to avoid punching holes through it, she slipped into a casual button-down shirt. Reaching into her backpack, she slipped out of her jeans and pulled a skirt up to her waist, tucking her shirt in. With a sigh, she leaned into the mirror, staring at her appearance. Her friends and coworkers always made such a big deal about her antlers. Even worse, how men and women would rush into the store, sometimes spending upwards a few hundred dollars, just to waste time and money to see and talk to her. At first, it was flattering, now it was starting to get out of hand.
With a bottle of perfume, she sprayed herself and the air around her, running through the cloud. Running a hand through her brown hair, she sighed, letting every part of her body take the fragrance. Blue eyes watched her reflection, from the points of her antlers, to her tapering jaw and tanned, unblemished skin. Taking a deep breath, she slung the backpack over her shoulder, giving her coworkers a quick nod and stepped into the lobby of the store. With a final goodbye, she stepped into the street, taking in a wash of sunlight and late fall breeze.
Highways crossed high into the skyline, winding with Mountain highlands, and between forests that screamed to the sky. Banners of a golden falcon on a field of red, waved in the sky from various skyscrapers and buildings. With a smile, she walked down the hill streets, up and down, following the curves of the city. Unlike Vale or Dale or even Glade, the city of Viridian Hollow, did not need walls or artificial defenses – the mountains that surrounded them made it difficult for Grimm and people to even travel, much less attack.
A soldier of the Winchesters gave her a nod as he marched by with his platoon; a civilian wearing a business outfit, lowered her glasses as if in awe of the girl as she walked. A group of boys whistled and catcalled from an alley, tossing their cigarettes and roach blunts into a puddle. She simply gave them a smile and kept walking. For some reason, no one ever really approached her after giving them attention. She didn't know what to make of it really, but it always worked in her favor. People, it didn't matter who they were, always adored from afar.
Toward the residential districts, she could already see her condominium. Smiling to herself, her mom worked so hard as a logistics manager for a shipping company based in Wind Path. While she had no reason to go and find a job, she felt that she wanted to do something with her life. Even if it was baking cakes and serving people, at least she was making her own income. In their crazy times, with news of White Fang and Brotherhood fighting one another, and of course, the endless Grimm hordes roaming the wilderness of Sanus between Viridian Hollow and Vale – she wondered if the life of a huntress was for her.
She smirked, watching a bullhead fly across the skies above Viridian Hollow. The usual airship of choice for Huntsmen and Huntresses, she blushed thinking of a life like that. The blush continued as she imagined the strapping huntsmen she would encounter in her journeys, hell, even the Huntsman Academies. Mistral was where her mom was from, maybe she'd find a nice Faunus there; maybe graduate and be a dedicated Huntress for Menagerie. The choices were endless, but of course, the only problem was that she didn't have any formal training, much less aura. Shaking her head, she continued to walk in silence, enjoying the city she loved.
A ring caught her attention. Whipping out a scroll from her backpack, she pressed it against her ear, "mom?"
"Baby, what are you doing answering me?" the woman said, "you know I don't really get how to work these scrolls yet. I meant to give you a text. Anyway, I thought you got off at eleven tonight? It's only nine right now."
"Well, I clocked out early today," she smiled, "we were pretty busy with orders, but we got it sorted out ahead of schedule. I'm on my way home right now."
"Well, good thing too, I'm planning what to eat for dinner tonight," she could hear the woman's smile, "can you guess?"
"Salad?" she asked as her mouth watered.
"Of course, only be best Mistrali kind," the woman laughed, "I'll see you later, love."
As the line hung up, she sighed, pocketing her scroll back into her backpack. Walking ahead, her ears perked at a noise behind her. Be it something else, or her Faunus features beyond antlers; she always had a sixth sense for danger. Whipping back, she saw a group of men and women following after her. What really surprised her however, was the boy with a strong chest, burnt orange hair and indigo eyes. It wasn't so much the features that really meant anything, but it was more the emotions he displayed. Anger. Frustration. Confusion. Fear.
At the head of the group beside him, a boy with an undercut, silver-white hair and amethyst eyes. He was talking, putting his hands out trying to stop a woman who looked eerily similar to him. However, the woman didn't speak, pushing him away, nearly making him fall back into a parked car. The boy with orange hair moved to help the other, but the white-haired woman glared, raising her hand in front of him.
"Forget him, Cardin," she growled, "you want in, this is how!"
"Look, Larissa," he raised his hands in defense. Taking a threatened step back, he accidently bumped into a pair of nameless, faceless men who grabbed him, "get your hands off of me!"
"Cardin, fuck this man, I told you–"
"Shut the fuck up!" the one named Larissa raised a threatening hand. Juno watched carefully as her hand began to ripple with energy, like aura, "Orion, stay down and let this happen. It needs to happen if Cardin is going to go anywhere."
"So, we're just targeting random people?!"
Targeting?
Juno's eyes widened as she stepped back, turning on her heels. She started to move faster, trying to pick up pace. Hands struggling to get into her backpack, she could hear them shouting and moving toward her. Hot on her tail, she started to run, sneakers beating against concrete as she fled. They shouted, their feet a thunderous rapping against stone. She continued to run trying to ignore the aching of her antlers. Slipping, she cursed herself as her shot caught on the length of her dress hem. Falling forward, she rolled down the hill, crashing into a trash can in a derelict alleyway.
Panic rising, she pushed herself off the ground, stumbling before collapsing back on her chest. She could feel them coming closer, she could hear them shouting.
Cardin! Throw the stone!
No! This isn't right!
I'm with Cardin on this one – Larissa, stop this. We've already gone too far.
Now you want to say something, Orion?
Cardin, I'm on your side here, dipshit!
Enough; throw the stone.
I-I…it doesn't feel right.
Throw the stone. Stop being a baby.
Acolytes; shut the fuck up.
I don't need your help, Orion.
Throw the stone and you'll be one of us Cardin.
Throw the stone; remember what you told me of your mother and father.
Oh, you've got to be kidding me. This isn't right, Larissa!
Keep interrupting and I'm removing Ciane's other ear!
Juno coughed, trying to push herself off the concrete. She cursed under breath as she tried to move her feet. Moving the dress as these humans argued with one another, she noticed her foot bent in an unnatural way. Panicking, she started to crawl away, as they started to argue further.
"Don't bring her into this, you worthless bitch," Orion growled.
"Then don't interrupt where you're not needed. Cardin…look at that animal crawling away…" Larissa said, "these freaks…they're the ones responsible…throw the stone."
"Hey freak!" an acolyte shouted, catching Juno's attention. She panicked as his voice sounded just an inch behind her ear. A presence was felt, she flipped over, terrified for her life. She watched as a stone shot toward her at lightning speeds. To her surprise, the one named Orion raised his hand. A shimmer covered his forearm, suddenly covering it in a forcefield.
"Whoever you are – go! Get out of here!"
Larissa roared, punching Orion in his cheek, breaking his concentration. The forcefield broke and she activated her own semblance, shifting its size into something smaller than Juno could see. Blue eyes quaked with fear as her head suddenly snapped back with force like a bullet. Falling to the ground, the acolytes moved in, picking her up and dropping her behind a dumpster. Opening her mouth to speak, she was suddenly responded with a boot jamming into her mouth.
Tears falling, she shook her head as the boot was removed, pressing the sole against her chest, "p-please…if y-you want m-money…I h-have Lien! J-Just leave me a-alone!"
"She thinks we want money," one of the acolytes laughed, "we don't want your money…"
Her breath hitched as his hands neared her, moving hair from her face. A thumb trailed across her jawline, wiping the tearstains on her cheeks. His companion gasped, wrapping his hand around one of her antlers. With a forceful yank, she was forced to look at them. As a Faunus, she had seen some very animalistic men and women. Some had legs of their animal or faces eerily similar to said animal. Nothing compared to the hungry looks they wore in front of her.
"Damn…" one said breathlessly, "she's fucking gorgeous."
"A shame she's an animal," the other scowled, grabbing her other antler.
"Alright, that's enough!" Cardin and Orion said at once, "you've made your point!"
"Cardin!" Larissa put her hand in Orion's face, pushing him away, "Animals like her murdered your mother and brother. Weak, terrified, frail little creatures…at least that's what they pretend to be. Look at her, she's probably getting ready to gore them like a true deer. Don't feel sorry for them – did the animals feel sorry for killing your mother and brother? Did they mourn?!"
"N-No," Cardin looked away, conflict on his face.
"Then why bother feeling even a semblance of guilt," Larissa asked, pushing her brother to the ground again, "they wouldn't do the same for you!"
"Then I'm done," he glared, "I'm out of here, Larissa."
"What did you just say?" her smile and almost flirting eyes shifted tone. Amethyst eyes burned with a sudden fury, "who the fuck do you think you're talking to?!"
"I'm done," Cardin glared, "do yourself a favor and get out of here."
"If you won't do something, then I will!" Larissa shouted, whipping around, "this is because of you, Cardin! Welcome to the Brotherhood."
Cardin moved, but an Acolyte rushed in, barreling his shoulder into Cardin's chest, shooting him into the concrete, "stay down, Brother Cardin."
"Wait, stop!" Orion shouted, "this isn't–"
His words were suddenly muted. Orion glared at the Acolyte who smirked. Pressing his foot into Cardin's chest, he stomped, knocking the air from his lungs. With another hand, a blade slipped from his sleeves resting at Orion's throat. Larissa grabbed Juno as she screamed, but the other Acolyte flicked his wrists, creating a bubble of silence. No one could hear anything. The streets were empty at this time, the perfect opening to cause harm. She watched, trying to fight back against Larissa's powerful grip, but she couldn't overpower her.
She felt it, the jagged knife against the base of her antlers. Slicing, cutting, chopping, Juno shrieked, but not a sound could be heard. She couldn't stop crying, begging wordless cries, but Larissa wouldn't stop. She just didn't care. The dark look in those amethyst eyes were filled with such darkness, so much hate, she couldn't breathe. Another cut and Juno couldn't believe it. Shocked, catatonic, no word could describe what she felt. Blood poured down her forehead as Larissa kicked her to the ground, rolling around in trash and filth.
Juno's screams were mute, but they could see the pain in her eyes. Hands, panicked, rushed to the stump spewing blood. She shot up and down, like a tortured animal, shrieking and screeching as she curled into a fetal position trying to stop the pain. But no one could hear her. Larissa stomped, flipping Juno onto her back, twirling the jagged knife once more, her smile was sickening. Just like before, she began to cut and drag the teeth of her blade against the base of her antlers, lacerating skin and flesh. Blood, chips and dust of her bone trickled into her eyes, already blinded in tears and blood.
Orion and Cardin were stuck in the street, pressed against a car. Somehow no one was coming, no one heard. The acolytes waited with disgusting smiles on their faces, enjoying every second of her pain. Juno bit her lip, too weak to fight back. Throat shot and vocal cords torn to shreds, she pressed her head back into the dirt as the second antler was removed. Larissa stood victorious over her as she slipped the antlers into her belt. Kicking Juno once more, the girl flipped over, hands clutching the stumps of her forehead, hands slicked with blood. Hands clutched her stomach as she puked next to the dumpster.
Weakly, she trembled, falling back into the alleyway, deeper, trying to find an escape. It was not meant to be. Her hair was grabbed by a strong, masculine hand. Heart racing, tears dried and burning, she was thrown back into the alleyway, barely seen by the main street. Cardin was fighting back, Orion was already trying to disarm the acolyte, but to no avail. Her backpack was opened, spilling the contents. Bottles of perfume, nail polish and a small case for her fake eyelashes. Mascara, eyeliner and lipstick. The things a human woman would need. Larissa in her spite, stomped on everything, crushing her collection of products.
Reaching into the backpack, she grabbed Juno's scroll. She scrolled through her scroll, looking at all of her social media apps, noticing something apparent about her. To her own eyes, she saw nothing but a creature. To everyone else apparently – they saw the goddess of beauty herself. It was infuriating. Snapping it in two with her bare hands, she tossed the remnants away, she grabbed the clothes Juno had packed away. With a snap of her fingers, they were suddenly compressed before her very eyes. The backpack itself, was turned into nothing, shrinking beyond her vision.
"Strip the bitch naked," Larissa said, "I want to see why people fawn over her."
"With pleasure, your eminence," an acolyte said.
The man walked over to her, punching her across her face, throwing her back to the ground. Head spinning, her head tilted back and forth, as her shirt was ripped from her body. Strong hands grabbed her bra, tearing it from her chest, letting her breasts free. She couldn't fight back as the man punched her in her stomach, making her puke again. Hands against her dress, he tore it free, taking her underwear. Hands wrapped around her blood-soaked head; he threw her forward at Larissa's feet.
Juno for all her will, broke at Larissa's smile, "look at you, animal. I want to hear her bark!"
"Larissa, that's enough!" Cardin roared, pushing off the car, "you need to stop this now!"
The acolyte grabbed Juno, flipping her over. Hands gliding across her thighs, she couldn't think as he shuffled with his pants. Hands touching a place no one had ever touched; she didn't know what to do. Larissa, standing over her like an overlord, foot on her cheek, she bit her lip. However, what she knew was coming, never came. Larissa, for all her sinister aura, didn't see this coming either. Silence had fallen over the area, shrouding them in a kaleidoscope tunnel. Birds froze in the sky; people froze in their homes – there was nothing of the outside world in this new dimension.
Cardin moved, punching at the acolyte who held him down, fists glowing orange. The man screamed, only to gurgle on his words. His entire left side was blown out in a shower of gore and blood. Juno looked down at her assailant, only to find that he had expanded, falling back like a kickball. Whipping back, Larissa was red-faced, as if she'd be foiled. Orion stood, hand hold his elbow and the other glowing with a black aura.
"That's enough, Larissa," Orion said, "Cardin–"
"W-What…" he shook his head, indigo eyes pale and shaking, "what the fuck is wrong with you people?! I didn't want this! I never wanted this!"
"Cardin, just calm–"
"Don't act like you're the one with some sense," Cardin growled, "you had so many chances to talk me out of it, but you just let it happen! And you, Larissa!"
"Cardin, wait," she reached out, fingers lacing with his, "don't do this. I know you still love me."
"Y-You…" he hissed, his tears falling, "stop doing this! I want nothing to do with any of you!"
Pushing Larissa away, he whipped around, fist raised to the kaleidoscope barrier. Orion's eyes bugged out of his head, forgetting his concentration. Cardin's fist burst through the barrier, shattering it like glass. As he did, birds began to fly, music from apartments nearby began to play. But in the final calm, everything fell apart. Juno flinched as the acolyte suddenly exploded down the alleyway, showing the walls and floor with blood. Panic rising, Orion watched as Cardin took off running up the hill. He and Juno shared a glance, amethyst to sapphire, before he turned and ran away.
"Look what you'd done, you Faunus wretch," Larissa said with a threatening growl. Juno's antlers dangling from her waist, she couldn't believe it. The amethyst eyed demon wrapped her hands around her throat, lifting her up and slamming her bare back into the brick wall, "I wasn't going to actually let him rape you…you think true humans would taint their blood with the likes of you? A freak?!"
Larissa reached into her back, revealing a steel rod. Twirling it around, she brought it down on Juno's head. Cold. Hot. Spinning. The naked woman stumbled around the dumpster. Swinging her arm with a ferocity of someone personally scorned, Juno fell to the side, her head slashed and bruised open, spilling blood across the already bloodstained ground. Juno blinked as darkness slowly came for her. She could see the shadow of Larissa shrinking her fallen acolytes and putting them in a plastic bag. Pocketing their bodies, she gave her one last glance before disappearing.
Darkness. It was all she could see, but through the darkness, a figure stepped into the alleyway. She didn't know how long she had been there, but she moved to protect her modesty. To her surprise, a blanket was thrown around her and she was picked up with a pair of strong arms. The world kept spinning; the streets were rushing for her. Even in the bright white lights of the building she was brought into – through the sounds of flickering lights and ringing phones, she could see one thing.
A man with white hair, amethyst eyes and a burning bird on his clothes.
Here is the point you can start up again!
6:30pm
"And that's what happened that night," Juno frowned, "y-yeah, it sucks…but Cardin Winchester and Orion were not the bad guys that day. No matter how you want to think that's the case. It's not. So, put away the scowls and just drink your tea."
"Juno…" Orion frowned, "I-I'm so sorry…I should have done more to stop her."
"Look, Orion," she said, taking his hand, "I already talked to Cardin when he visited me in the hospital. After the train bombing and the dissolution of the White Fang, we've been hanging around the city looking for work. We're not too sure about joining the King of Vale and his King's Fist, just yet. I just needed time to really think about my life choices and my up until now, lack of memories. Your sister and those guys did a real number on me."
"I'm sorry–"
"What did I just say?" Juno laughed, "Please…yeah, it's rough knowing my whole life was changed because I just happened to get off work early, but I don't blame you, or Cardin. I mean, I heard from his fiancée and Blake, that Cardin had a whole mental breakdown because of that day. I didn't hear everything he talked about, but clearly, he's either forgotten how I was almost…well…you know…or he still carries that trauma around with him. I'm not one to pick a gangrenous wound."
"I still don't trust the Argent," Perry glared as he drank his tea.
"I'm not asking you to, idiot," Juno glared, "I trust him. I woke up in the hospital several weeks later, because, Orion went back to save me from that alleyway. At first, I thought it was Cardin Winchester, but I was mistaken. The Argents and the Winchesters have similar symbols. That's probably why, even with Cardin literally groveling next to me and even coddling me, none of my memories came back. He wasn't the one."
"Juno," Orion frowned, sipping at his tea, "I know you don't want any apologies…but I know the King. I've seen him heal wounded Faunus – you don't have to carry the wounds of my sister's doing. None of you do. I've cleaned up her messes, I've been at the mercy of her fury…there's a Faunus back in Atlas…her name is Ciane. You are not the only Faunus my sister has maimed like this."
Juno, for all her seriousness, dropped the mask, "w-what? Excuse me, Orion, but what the fuck is wrong with her? What's her problem? Why does she hate my people so much?!"
"That, I cannot tell you," Orion sighed, pouring scalding hot tea into his cup, "I never understood why she felt the way she did, but I can guess she got it from my mother; who herself, has vague reasons for hating Faunus. Listen, all of you, the White Fang is done…soon, the Brotherhood will join them. Join the King…I am. Fight beside him. If there's anyone on Remnant who can be trusted, it would be him and his Queens. I mean Blake Belladonna is a Queen, that should be enough to convince you, right?"
"I didn't join the White Fang because of the Belladonnas," Perry and Deery shared a look, "we joined because Sienna Khan wanted to teach you humans a lesson. The only one here who was in the White Fang long enough to even care about the Belladonnas, is Blue."
"My name is Juno," she corrected, "Blue is the name I received because Larissa took everything from me. I don't live in fear anymore…so I won't use that name. If you really cared about me, you'd respect that, Perry."
"So, what now?" Deery asked as she finished her tea. Reaching for the kettle, she sighed as she started to pour, "you've got your memories back, Juno. Are we going back to Vacuo or what? The whole reason for coming here, was get information about your past – we got that now. What next?"
"I guess…" Juno took a deep breath, "I guess we're going back to Vacuo…but I'm not joining the Mafia again. I'm tired of the fighting. I don't know how you two still want to. After everything we've been through, it's just one fight after another, with you guys. How are you not sick of it yet?"
"Because, Blue," Perry stood, "these humans, are responsible for everything they did to you! I don't care if he stood up to protect you – who knows how many more Faunus have been hurt by them?! I can't call you Juno, because that is the name of a person I never knew. You're Blue…you're a champion for Faunus rights; you're a freedom fighter!"
"Despite that, I am still, Juno." The woman glared, "Perry, we've fought side-by-side since you've joined. You know I love you, but I need you to calm down and respect my decision."
"You love me," he frowned, "but not in the way I want…"
"Perry, it's not that simple–"
"Wow, you're really doing this now?" Deery gave him a raised brow.
"I see how you've looked at the Argent…even going so far as call him by his first name?! You don't know him, so why are you falling for him?!"
"Excuse me?!" Juno and Orion snapped, "I can't believe this is happening right now."
"Shut your fat mouth, Argent," Perry snapped.
"Look, dipshit, I already have a girlfriend," the Argent replied, "she's waiting for me in Atlas!"
"It's not what you think, Perry!" Juno slammed her hand into the table, drawing eyes and attention, "he was the key to unlocking my past! He was the key to all of this! Don't project your feelings in a situation that has nothing to do with them!"
"Projecting? I have loved you from the moment I joined the Fang," Perry glared, pressing his knuckles into the table, "you have rejected me time and time again, just wanting to remain friends, but this Argent comes along and all of a sudden, you're on first name basis and holding his hand?!"
"It's a platonic gesture, you moron!"
"H-Hey, guys," Orion said, "I-I think you might want to calm down."
"Fuck this, I'm out," Perry pushed off the table and stormed to door.
"Perry…gods damnit," Deery sighed into her palm, "this is why I'm ace. Fuck romantic relationships. Come on, Juno, let's go get the moron."
The two of them stood from their seats and bolted to the door, running after Perry, leaving Orion in the restaurant. Panic starting in his chest, he fished for his wallet and walked up to the register, bowing and spilling apologies faster than he could blink. Whipping out a few Lien cards, he looked at the manager who stood with her group of employees, all Faunus.
"H-How much do we owe?" Orion asked kindly, "I'll pay for any damages they might have caused."
"You're lucky we even served you," the manager said with acid in her tone, "we all know who you are, Argent. We don't want your fucking money. Get out of my establishment before I call the King's Fist to kill your stupid ass."
"Look I don't want any trouble," Orion said, "just let me pay."
A cock of a shotgun was heard, "you heard her, get the fuck out, Argent."
Hands raised in defense; Orion sighed. Careful turning his back, he heard the shotgun being lowered. Whispers among the patrons began to grow louder as some openly called him a Brotherhood bastard. Hand on the door handle, he took a deep breath and left the restaurant behind. Walking the streets, he saw Juno and Deery shouting at Perry at the sidewalk of an intersection. Walking toward them, he pulled out his scroll intending to call Delwyn, but to his surprise, the scroll was busted. Probably damaged when he was jumped by the Faunus.
"So," he started, "my scroll's broken. I didn't remember any of the numbers for my friends in the King's Fist."
"Damn it, look what you've done, Perry," Juno glared, "Deery, go to the hotel and pack our things. We're going back to Vacuo tonight."
"You got it, Juno," the Faunus saluted, "come on, idiot, before you say something stupid again."
Left in the street alone, Orion followed after Juno's waving hand, "so…uh, what have you been up to since that day?"
"Really?" he asked incredulously, "you know you're really taking that trauma a little too well. It's unnerving."
"I guess…" she took a breath, "I guess it hasn't really occurred to me the gravity of the situation. The emotions are there, the memories are there, but with so much that has happened and so much that's just black, that the weight isn't. I should be a crying mess right now…but as close to death as I was that day, nothing compares to when the King's Fist defeated us at the Battle of the Docks."
"I was part of the amphibious assault, but we were defeated by the King's Fist patrol fleet and gunships. It got worse when they created several fortified firing positions along the docks themselves," Juno shuddered, "our boats were destroyed, hundreds of Faunus and White Fang operatives were slaughtered in the water. I almost joined them but I woke up in an organ harvester's lab that had become a field clinic for the White Fang in Vacuo."
"Hmm…Battle of the Docks?" Orion murmured, "around that time, I was still on a flight from Atlas to Dale on orders of my mother. My sister and I were to report to the Brotherhood headquarters in Dale before arriving in Vale proper for the Tournament."
"Hehe, speaking of Tournament, you got your ass kicked by Fireteam CFVY," Juno giggled.
"T-They're a Fireteam of the King's Fist, with real battlefield experience. They fought at the Battle of the Docks, in the Battle of Dene and Magnus, at the Battle of Vale," Orion defended, "Larissa and I watched the reports from Dale, thousands of miles away from the conflict. Of course, they kicked my ass."
Juno smiled, revealing pearly white teeth, healthy gums. He blinked, she truly was beautiful, "so, who's the lucky gal?"
"If you watched the Tournament, she's my teammate, Rei Nanami."
"Really?" Juno said, turning to him, "wow, you know how to pick them! I'm not bi, but I'd give her a chance. Have you seen those legs?"
Orion blushed, "s-stop that. People say that in Atlas all the time, even to my face but I could never say anything. We're kinda in a secret relationship, because well…she's a Faunus and I'm human. Worse yet, I'm in the Brotherhood. We could be executed, or worse…"
"Ciane was my first crush, my childhood crush," Orion began, "we really liked one another and my sister didn't like that. So, she bullied her senselessly whenever I wasn't home. I caught Larissa in the act and stepped in, accidentally hurting her. Bad goes to worse and before the Brotherhood High Council, Ciane is punished and I'm forced to watch. I step in, I get beaten severely, Ciane steps into protect me. They don't like that. Larissa comes into the picture…and cuts Ciane's rabbit ear off as a message and reminder."
Juno hummed, blinking for a second, "does she have a collection of Faunus parts or something?"
"N-Not that I know of?" Orion paused, unable to look at her, "but…when Cardin left, he hurt Larissa in ways very few can. As a form of…I don't know, uh, I honestly don't know why she wears them still…but she never leaves without your antlers tied to her waist. She didn't wear them in the tournament because she was afraid of losing one or breaking one…but she has a strange obsession for them."
"That's…" Juno blinked, "disturbing on so many levels. W-What the fuck is wrong with you people."
"Uh, that I cannot tell you," Orion shrugged. Ears perking, his senses exploded. Moving fast, he wrapped his arm around Juno, pulling her back onto the sidewalk. A car drove past them, running a red light. Juno looked at him, surprised and grateful. Giving him a smirk, she was released and stepped a respectable distance away.
"Holy shit, Argent," she beamed, "look at you, using those powers of oppression for good, I see."
"S-Shut up."
Unbeknownst to the pair, a picture was taken. Sitting on a rooftop, a lone man with a mustache hummed to himself. Hands clicking away at a holographic keyboard, he typed his code into the security cameras on every traffic light in the district. He smirked as the picture was enlarged, focused and with some very easy tricks, he found the damning evidence he needed.
Orion Argent, with a woman in his arms.
6:45pm
Ren and Nora stood at the CCT Tower at Beacon, the screen was piled with their girlfriends from Shade, "Neb, you should see how bad it is…"
"We've seen the news," Dew frowned, "what the fuck happened? We leave and everything goes to shit?"
"Heh," Ren chuckled.
"What I would give to have you back here with us," Nora smiled sadly, "everything's falling apart and we're running out of options here."
"I wish we could," Octavia sighed, "but the transfer process is long and tedious and…"
"No, it's fine," Ren said, "you already have to deal with Atlas. That's enough problems in of itself."
"Speaking of Atlas," Nebula said, "Renny, some good and bad news; CNDR and NDGO were originally being traded out with Atlas with two other teams to study here in Shade. But something happened up there and now the transfer program isn't happening so we're not leaving…but the Atlesian Military isn't either. CNDR and I have been harassed by Atlesian Specialist just for leaving Shade's campus."
"Neb, don't do anything we wouldn't do," Ren said.
"Uh, I think they should," Nora glared, "I am sick and tired of the General stepping in on our lives. Last I checked, Atlas is in Solitas, not Sanus. Last time I also checked, Vacuo and Vale share the same continent."
"Nora's right," Dew said, "these fucking snowflakes don't belong in Vacuo. For being the most powerful military, the only thing they're good at is stealing our water and forcing us under martial law. Without a true council, and Headmaster Theodore doing jack shit anything…we're stuck picking straws and playing in the sand here. Gods, we should've stayed in Vale...we miss you both, so much."
"It's barely been two months," Gwen rolled her eyes, "but…she's right. It's been rough since we came back from Vale. The Faunus Mafia has grown bolder with some unknown benefactor and I haven't even started on the Grimm. Not to mention the negativity building from the constant broadcasts of the Lord Arc's trial. People are getting angrier and angrier."
"Another thing," Nebula said, raising her hand, "Renny, when are you and the King gonna stop the god worship. Whatever's happening in Vale has spread here of all places. It's a little off-putting when I walk a street and find an effigy of you and Jaune. Yeah, before the trial, people had hope. Now, they're turning from believers to fanatics. The White Fang may be gone…but the people who worship you and Jaune are taking it too far."
"Especially here in Vacuo," Dew frowned, "the people already struggle with water – letting them spread their beliefs, everything could easily get out of hand, fast. J-Just…we need to be careful. Both of you need to be careful. When they realize you're not actually gods…who knows what'll happen. It could literally be the end times."
"I…"
"They trying to come up with a solution that won't piss everyone off," Nora said, "these people really believe in them. If we just came around and told them off, the chaos would erupt immediately. It's delicate right now, but we will find a solution."
"We didn't mean to insult you. We know how bad it can be. I know how bad it's getting around the world right now. I just want you guys to be careful," Nebula said, "you know we don't say this lightly…we love you. I know you won't like it, but if shit comes to blows, we'll be on the first LAHAT to Vale immediately."
"Nebula we can't ask you to–"
"Good thing you didn't ask a thing," Octavia smirked, "don't you worry…Jaune has his Queens, you have your own, Ren. Don't forget us."
"I could never," he smiled.
"Welp, we gotta go," Nebula sighed, "it was good to talk again…Nora, Ren…when we get back together, we're going to have a nice vacation somewhere. Just the six of us, cool?"
"Ooh," Nora smiled, "I learned some stuff from Yang; I got some new stuff I wanna try."
Dew and Gwen smirked devilishly, "can't wait to see it in action…but for real, we gotta go…love you guys, be safe."
As the video call came to an end, Ren and Nora sighed in defeat, staring at their empty reflections. Everything happening in the city was getting out of hand. Hands clenched, the ninja sighed, lowering his head into his knuckles. Thankfully, Nora caught on and threw her arms over his shoulders, resting her chin on his scalp.
"Renny," she said, "Jaune's going to be fine…"
"That's not what I'm worried about," Ren responded weakly, "I'm sensing something within the city, but I can't put my finger on it. It's an aura, one that feels…familiar, but I don't know what it is. It's there…but it's shrouded from vision. Strangely enough, it keeps moving closer and closer. I wanted to tell Jaune, but with his father's trial and sentencing…I can't distract him, not now when his family is in danger."
"You're forgetting something," Nora took his hands into her own planting a soft kiss on his head, "we're still here. We can do what we can to defend Beacon if what you're saying is true. I mean, I'm strong as hell and you've got those creepy Grimm powers."
Looking at his hands as she released him, there was a soft pink glow that shimmered over his skin, "right…freaky Grimm powers…alright. While Jaune and the others are in the city, we need to protect Beacon. I don't know if it's coming for the CCT like in Jaune's past lives, but I'm open to anything. They might even try to break Adam and the others from their cells."
Orion laughed as he shared a drink with Juno. Despite her supposed personality change and the spilling of her life story, he was truly interested in what she had to say. Toying with her straw, she put the drink down and grabbed a crispy onion ring and dipped it in the special sauce. Munching away, she sighed, leaning back in her chair, "you know, Orion, I never thought an Argent would be this fun to talk to."
"We're all pretty terrible when we want to be," he blushed.
"I think it's wild, how many times you've been brought to a teahouse today," Juno laughed.
Orion coughed, "well, in the first one, I barely got to enjoy my drink because the riot – then you and your friends started making a scene, so really, I only got like three cups of tea, if I'm being honest. Not to mention no food."
"We're far from the protests," Juno laughed, dipping another onion ring, "at least now we'll have a moment to really breathe. So, now that you have your memories…what do you remember about yourself?"
"Well, I was born and raised in Viridian Hollow," she said, taking a sip of her water, "my mom and dad were immigrants from Mistral, so we had a lot of Mistrali influence in our lives. I don't think I have a real sob story…my dad was killed by Grimm when I was young, so my mother and I were pretty much on our own for a long time. I…I wonder if my mom is still alive. It's been a long time since that day…"
"Well…I hope she's out there, waiting for you," Orion smiled, "better yet, I know she's out there. I mean, you don't have the White Fang lording over you anymore – you're free to be anyone you want to be, find anyone you want to find."
"Viridian Hollow is a big place, Orion," Juno shrugged, "It would take years just to scour the place."
Reaching out and taking a fry, he took a moment, "then I guess you should start now?"
"I mean," Juno blushed, stammering for a response, "I doubt it's gonna be that easy."
"You have the resources of the King's Fist at your disposal while you're here," Orion leaned into his seat, "I'm not saying to stay, but maybe take some time to really look into the King and what he's doing."
"What," Juno snorted, "he killed my friends in the White Fang…I was curious because Blake is his Queen, but I don't feel anything for the King. He's just some guy who stood in the way of me and my people…he has nothing to give me and that isn't going to change my mind. Why're you trying so hard to convince us to talk to him?"
"Rei and I have some grand plans to live our lives after the Brotherhood is defeated," Orion sipped his drink, "I mean…I've never been to Menagerie, but I've seen the pictures on the CCTN. White beaches, warm tropical wind, shimmering crystal water…Faunus living in peace. After everything that Rei and my teammates have been through, all I really want is for them to be safe and away from the machinations of my family. I want them to enjoy being among their people, I want them to know what it's like to be among familiar faces."
"We had that in the White Fang," Juno hummed, dipping another onion ring, "but the King did something that Sienna Khan never could – he got things done. I don't like him, nor do I trust him, but that doesn't mean I don't respect him. Why do you follow him?"
"Because he's powerful," Orion's reply was simple, "he's a person I don't see myself winning against. He would wipe the floor with the Brotherhood if he wanted to, but due to some unforeseen circumstances, he hasn't. It's not any better with all of this god worship going around. An image is sometimes more powerful than the person."
"That's true," Juno agreed, "Sienna Khan was always seen as a revolutionary, a champion for Faunus; but look at what she's doing now? She's disappeared from sight after surrendering to the King and disbanding the White Fang. Those airships in the sky that once carried the White Fang sigils, are flying the Arc rainbow as if the blood that was spilt to even get those vessels, was for nothing."
"I'm guessing you're not a fan of Sienna Khan," Orion raised a brow.
Juno shrugged, "guilty as charged. I believed in Adam Taurus and everything he stood for, more than I ever really believed in Sienna. I mean, maybe I did at first, but I honestly never knew why I joined the White Fang. I believed that we Faunus needed to rise up and make humanity bleed for what they did to my people. I believed that it was the goal of the White Fang to ensure that humanity…doesn't do what they did to me, to other Faunus. Imagine, losing your entire life because someone wanted to make a point to someone. I wasn't even a living being to your sister. I was an object. An animal."
Blue eyes almost glowed in the evening sun just before sunset, "but you're different. Why? You and your sister were quiet literally cut from the same cloth."
"I told the King when they had me at their mercy, I have a sob story if you want to hear it," Orion crossed his arms, "if you want to kill someone, I know several people you can erase. I am Orion Argent, someone who is of high rank in the Brotherhood. I know every person of interest."
Juno hummed, tapping her index finger against the table, "are you sure you want to go to war with the Brotherhood?"
"I have allies in Atlas who are willing to help me if it does come to blows," Orion said, "there are people who are willing to help and are willing to stand against tyranny – all they need is a nudge in the right direction to get the gears turning. That's usually all it takes. A word of encouragement, maybe a promise of protection; but there are always allies in the most unlikely of places."
Juno frowned, tapping the table with an almost furious focus. Blue eyes lowered, half-lidded with confusion, "here I was thinking the Brotherhood was this monolith. But they're just as confused and split as the White Fang was. Let's just say…you get help from another source – one that won't cause an international war…would you accept it?"
"I don't know what you're offering, but it's not necessary," Orion raised his hand, "you've already suffered enough because of me and my family."
"It's because of them that I'm even in the position I'm in," Juno said, "it's because of them that I lost my horns. Orion, I may have blamed your before…but I don't anymore. I can say that I know you, if somewhat. Now that I remember that day, clearer than ever before…you're not my enemy. Your sister is my enemy. Your father, your mother, your entire Brotherhood is my enemy. Don't try to stop me."
"I won't," Orion said, "why do you think I joined the King's Fist?"
"We were unprepared at the Battle of the Docks," she said, "this time, when it comes to war, me and the Faunus Mafia aren't going to just sit back and let the Brotherhood or the King's Fist walk over us. So, you can fight back against the Brotherhood in any way you please, Orion…if you want our help, then you only need to say the word. You saved my life before…it's only fair I return the favor."
"A-Are you serious?"
"Of course," Juno lifted her drink to her lips, "I know who I am, who I really am. But that doesn't mean I'm the same naïve girl who was brutalized and almost raped four years ago. The only thing from my past I will accept are the memories and the name, my real name. Everything else, the skills I have, the semblance I own, the blood and combat I've seen…is a product of what I became; all because of what Larissa Argent did to me."
"A part of me thinks I should just say forget it, and go back to Viridian Hollow and look for my mom," Juno sighed, "a part of me wants to go back to my old job before everything happened, but I don't know what they'd think of me if I did. Even if I had a Grimm mask like every other White Fang member, the stumps I showed and revealed with pride, are unforgettable. What life would be waiting for me in a city I haven't seen in over four years?"
"So, I'm going to do what I know and try to make a new life for myself," Juno said, "I think you can relate to that. I came to Vale because I thought I could wring out information from Cardin Winchester, but the truth was, I needed to meet you to gain a semblance of who I really am. Imagine, the one person I was searching for, would run into the chaos of a protest, turned riot, to help me. Sorry if I'm talking so much…I just…the final link into who I am showed itself before me in the most unlikely of places…"
"Oh shit," she held her head, laughing hotly, "I t-think it's starting to really hit."
Orion blinked, "what do you need me to do?"
"I don't need anything," she laughed once more, "I think I need something stronger than sweet tea."
"Well…it's…" Orion looked around, remembering his scroll was broken. Reaching for the electronic menu, he sighed, "it's seven-thirty."
"Eh, I've drank heavier earlier than this," she laughed once more, "hello! Waitress!"
"Hello, how may I help you?"
"I would like a margherita, what about you, Orion?"
"A beer is fine," he awkwardly shook his head.
"Of course," the waitress bowed her head, "I'll be right back with your drinks."
"Ah," Juno smiled, "I've done a lot of talking…tell me about you!"
"There isn't much to know really," Orion said, "I was like most kids from Dale. I grew up with a lot of expectations. Those expectations were doubled because I was the younger twin. My sister was perfect in everything she did and it kinda made her unhinged at times. Me, I always thought I was normal – at least relatively, compared to the people in my life. While my sister excelled in academia related knowledge, I excelled in combat, history and more…artistic things. I'm a painter in my free time."
"Ooh," Juno hummed as the waitress returned with their drinks. Saying their thanks, they took quick swigs and sips before looking at one another, "let me guess, you liked to do natural paintings using people as models? Hmm, please tell me you've got some paintings of Rei."
"T-That's personal!"
"So, you do!" Juno cackled, holding her sides, "wow, you and her…living the dream. It must be nice."
"It is," he smiled wistfully, "Rei and I…there was always something different about her. Compared to the people I knew and the people I faced…she was a rock, a foundation I could rely on. While she helped me, I protected her. I was the wall that stood in the way of humans who would want to see her harmed. Despite some of the things we've had to do to keep appearances, we both knew how we felt."
"Was it like the stories say?"
"N-Not exactly," he laughed, "no, we were in the middle of a mission. We had just become a team and we were all coming to terms with how our team came to be. My parents wanted to hurt me and torture me by surrounding me in Faunus women. After what happened to Ciane…they ensured that another rabbit Faunus would be by my side at all times as a reminder. Little did they know, the one they chose was pretty hot. It wasn't the kind of relationship you'd think at first. We had an agreement; one the benefited us whenever we were stressed or needed to unwind – I think you can figure it out from there."
Juno blinked, "huh, that's interesting."
"Yeah, but one day, we both grew feelings for one another," Orion smiled, "it was the happiest day of my life honestly. It was more than just empty physical touch – we really liked each other and now…we love one another. Gods…I love her so much. I miss her. I wanted to bring her with me, here to Vale, but I knew that if any more people abandoned Atlas, it could cause an international incident. It especially doesn't help that my sister has been missing since we returned to Atlas form the Vytal Festival."
"Well," Juno raised her glass, "I hope you find her. To rooting out worthless bitches."
"To finding worthless bitches," he clicked his bottle with her glass.
Once more, a snap was made. Neither noticed as they delved deep into another conversation. On a rooftop, Watts hummed once more, typing away and editing pictures taken. Leg crossed over the other, he leaned into his seat, biting into a fresh green apple. A smirk on his face, he clicked keys and edited picture quality. A boy sat with a woman; her former Faunus features as clear as day. A quick encryption was made and he sent the pictures to an unknown benefactor labeled as Tower in his contacts.
"This is turning out to be more fun than I thought."
7:45pm
"Look, Orion," Juno turned to him as they stopped in front of her hotel room. The streets were practically devoid of motion. Both of them turned toward the direction of the Silver Tower and the courts. Fires raged in the streets and districts, painting the northern half of the city in an ominous orange glow. The ground shook as the sound of heavy military vehicles rolling into city streets, roared and rumbled into the ambiance of the once active city. People could be heard shouting and screaming – breaking glass, throwing makeshift bombs. Worse yet, the Airships had deployed their hordes of airwings toward the walls of the city.
"I appreciate everything you've done," Juno said giving him a smile, "I wouldn't be alive if it weren't for you and Cardin."
"You could have lived a full life away from all of this, if it weren't for me and Cardin," Orion looked away.
"No, I already talked to Cardin about this train of thought," Juno glared. Bringing her hand up, she cupped his cheek, "the only person I blame, is your sister. Don't go blaming yourself."
"R-Right," he raised his hands in defense, "but you can't blame me if I feel like I'm responsible. Cardin definitely let it get to him."
"Well, that's what guilt does to a person," Juno shrugged, "so, what's in store for Orion Argent after all of this?"
"I guess I'm staying in Vale until I get some reassurances from the King," Orion said, "I haven't found my sister, but I want to know for sure that I can trust that the King will keep his promise."
"Just like that?" Juno asked, raising a brow.
"Just like that," he smiled.
She blinked. He was handsome, almost like Prince Charming from all the fairy tales. She was so beautiful, even with the mangled stumps protruding from her forehead. Mouth drying, they gulped, staring too long. Amethyst to Sapphire. She neared him, quickly standing on her toes – a quick peck on his cheek. Backing away a respectable distance, she blushed, stammering for words, "t-that was for…well…everything."
"Y-Yeah," Orion smiled, bowing his head, "Juno…I'm glad I've found you again. I mean, if I had my scroll, I'd have saved your number."
"I guess we'll just have to leave it to chance," she winked as she walked to her hotel room.
As she turned, a powerful crack, louder than anything he had ever heard before, ripped through the city streets. It sounded like a gunshot and a cannon at the same time. Juno apparently had the same thought, as a weapon slid from her sleeve and into her open hand. Taking defensive stances, they looked at the rooftops, to the streets below. In the confusion, they ran toward the bridge as screams and terrified shouts echoed through the city. Sprinting toward the Redwood bridge, they came to a skidding halt.
At the end of the river with Beacon Cliff, the school itself was on fire. To his surprise, Grimm were crawling around the campus and flying from its grounds. Eyes wide with surprise, he pushed Juno away, throwing his hand up, glowing with his semblance. As the Grimm neared, they suddenly disappeared into dust, before they could do any damage. The confusion spreading, he heard another explosion ripping through the city.
Looking for answers, holographic screens appeared across the district, similar to Atlas. Curious, the pair walked up to the screens showing a news report. Orion's face paled with color. At the base of the High Court, Lisa Lavender was frantic, at her news studio.
"I have received…" she gasped, dropping her hands to her desk, "this…Lord Claude Arc, the lord of the House of Arc, of Orléans is dead. Murdered by what looks to be Corporal Orion Argent of Team ONYX."
"W-What?!" He and Juno shouted.
Footage suddenly appeared. Orion couldn't breathe. Jaune held his father as the old Shield of Orléans crumbled to dust in his arms. The camera panned following the smoke trail of the bullet, focusing on a boy standing on a rooftop with a massive sniper rifle that wore his face. Orion blinked, shaking in his clothes, he couldn't breathe. Stumbling back, he fell to the ground, head falling to his head.
"Orion!" Juno shouted, pulling him to his feet, "go and find the King, right now! We have to tell him that it wasn't you!"
"W-Wait…" Lisa said, panicking, "w-what is the King doing?!"
Orion stood cold and afraid, as Jaune screamed with rage. Throwing up a hand, Orion watched as his father was levitated off the ground, with several of his guardsmen. Glowing light engulfed the men, their screams muted in the live feed. He couldn't breathe. He could only watch as his father expanded until he and his men exploded into a shower of steaming blood and viscera.
"Find Orion Argent!" Jaune bellowed with fury, his voice transcending space and sound, "bring that traitor to me!"
The image flickered and vanished, revealing the time clock; 8:10pm. Orion stood on his feet, stumbling, barely able to look away from the screens. Head spinning, his breath hitched. The night couldn't get any worse. He trembled, trying to think of what to do, but another report followed. Lisa Lavender was having a complete breakdown, "I just received a report from our contacts in the King's Fist…Nora Valkyrie has been injured and is in critical condition…the Supreme Commander, Lie Ren, has been kidnapped and is missing."
"Find my brother!" Jaune's voice was desperate, echoing through every building and street, "find the bastards who did this! Find Orion Argent!"
As if the world had suddenly changed, people started to reveal themselves. They had weapons in their hands, as if they were possessed. He didn't know what to do, activating his aura the instant someone raised their weapon. Pushing Juno away, he was hit with a flurry of pellet shot, nearly blown back a few feet. He panted, as his aura shimmered. There was no way to know how much damage he had taken without his scroll. Before someone could fire their weapon again, Juno rushed to him, lifting him to his feet.
"Come on! We gotta go!"
Running through the streets, avoiding the growing crowds and the bullets tearing through every hiding place they could find, the places to run were slowly beginning to disappear. Even the rooftops, he could see King's Fist platoons gathering, their weapons aimed and ready to fire. Moving as fast as they could, dodging gunfire and crowds of people charging for them with lead pipes and firearms, his chances of escaping only continued to disappear as more King's Fist appeared.
LAVs, LAHAT, all of their vehicles rushed into the streets, chasing them down. But just as he was about to round a corner, a gloved hand grabbed him and Juno, pulling them into an alleyway. Before they could speak, a man with a mustache covered their mouths. They watched with wide eyes as the latest horde following them, took off running down the street without even checking the alleys around them.
"What happened?" Watts asked with a stern question, "what have you done?!"
"I-I didn't do anything!" Orion glared, "I was with her since fucking five o'clock!"
"It's true!" she said, "I have receipts! Whoever's done this is trying to frame Orion!"
"Gods," Watts lowered his head with frustration, "come on, boy. I'm taking you back to Atlas."
"What? I need to explain myself!" Orion said harshly.
"You think they're going to let you defend yourself?" Watts slapped him, "you were caught on international television, assassinating the King's father! What were you thinking?!"
"But I didn't–"
Another backhand, Orion spat blood, "they don't know that!"
"I have hacked into several of their vehicles to give us a chance to escape from Vale," Watts said, "you need to get back to Vale and be prepared for anything."
"F-Fine," Orion said, sighing, "fine, let's go…"
"Orion," Juno reached out, taking his hand, "I'm going to prove your innocence. This isn't right!"
"Be careful, Juno," he said, "please…be careful."
As Juno ran into the street, hands up, drawing a crowd toward her, Watts and Orion ran through the alleyway toward a ship wrapped in tarp. As Orion stumbled in, Watts couldn't stop the smile on his face, hidden by his mustache. Starting the engines, the ship began to levitate and burst into the skies of Vale, faster than the gunships and VTOLs. Watts pressed a button, unleashing an EMP blast, freezing the ships where they stood, stalling them and forcing them into freefall.
"Gods…" Orion held his head as tears spilled down his face, "w-what have I done?!"
Watts kept the façade, putting a hand on Orion's shoulder. Neither said a word as the airship cut into the cover of clouds.
We're not done using you, Orion.
How pathetic.
So, Claude is dead, Orion has been framed and Ren is missing. Next chapter - we will see Ren and Nora's point of view during all of this, since it's super important going forward with the story and really going forward pushing Ren's own harem. In the pain of loss, our heroes will resort to questionable tactics and choices. Vengeance is a double-edged sword after all. I hope you guys get excited for what's to come!
Tell me what you thought!
Ja ne!
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