The Grimm Lands Chapter 13
Hunting Ground Part 1: A Series of Choices
Ilia
The riot had erupted violently and quickly, like a crash of lightning followed by booming thunder. Thick and heavy gas filled her vision and watered her eyes. Tear gas choked her lungs and blinded her to the violence she could hear breaking out all around. She heard screams and gunshots blending as someone shoved her harshly to the ground. A crowd formed and she found herself being trampled underfoot by scared and helpless protesters. She tried to fight her way back to her feet, her lungs heavy and thick with mucus mixing with her broken nose. A foot caught her in the side of the head, and she collapsed back into the filth littered asphalt of the street.
It wasn't meant to happen like this. She had been trying to rally new members for the White Fang. A Faunus rights protest had been scheduled for midday in the lower parts of Vale's suburbs, the sections where rent was high, and jobs were scarce. The kinds of places bigger cities liked to throw their undesirables and pretend like they didn't exist. It had started so simply, a march along the ratty streets and old unsafe buildings, gradually picking up support until they reached the center of the Vale and demonstrated in front of the Kingdom's Council chambers. They had never made it past the second street.
Police and armed Huntsman had been ordered to circumvent and break up the protest. A tense hostility descended on the crowd. Ilia had no idea who had struck first, but in what felt like moments the crowd of battered and tired Faunus had been mercilessly beaten back and gassed. Some may have tried to fight back, it would explain the blood caking her hands, it may have been hers, but it was impossible to tell.
She crawled along the street, hands, and knees scraping against the ground as she managed to find some kind of wall. She slammed her back against it and tried to force her lungs to breathe. The gas and smoke were starting to clear. She could see bodies on the ground. Just hours before they had all been so excited and eager, bright banners and signs advocating Faunus rights and equality. There had been children in the crowds. Where were they now? The smog lingered, dark red and eerie. Ilia could smell the gunpowder and dust in the air. To her right, a building exploded in flames. The glass shattered and rained down against her. Her ear rang and for a moment she thought she had gone deaf.
Someone was running, the screaming seemed distant and unfocused. In moments dozens had been killed and an entire movement uprooted in bloodshed and violence. She saw a figure lying face down in the street, she could almost recognize him. She had talked to him before; he was a worker at the local Schnee Dust facility. He had a family, a wife, and children. He had seemed a decent fellow, kind and a bit awkward. His name was Picto.
Half of his skull had been caved in.
Ilia bit down the bile in her throat and stumbled to her feet. She tried to activate her skill, to vanish from sight and hide away far in the shadows from this hell. She couldn't focus as painful memories tore through her. Her skin flashed from its usual tan to almost translucent, but she couldn't get it to stay. She remembered that day years ago when she had been in the lunchroom with her so-called friends. When the news broke of a mining explosion. In an instant, her parents had been killed in a fiery explosion. She remembered her friends laughing, and mocking her in the lunchroom when she had walked in. Ilia had shattered their teeth and turned their jeers into cries of pain and terror. But now here she was trapped between a roaring fire to her side as screams tore out in every direction.
She tripped over her feet as she managed to trace her hand against the wall. She found herself in an alley just as dark and grimy as the rest of the slums around this cursed city. She heaved and cried as she made her way on all fours. She curled up behind a dumpster and hid. She had no idea how long she had sat there. She heard the wailing of people, Faunus, and sirens. She heard the chatter of crowds and the roaring engines of ships descending from the sky, most likely emergency personnel. Yet despite it all, she hid. She hid and waited until the sun had started to droop and the roaring chaos had blown out like a candle in the wind.
It wasn't until something hard rasped against her head that she moved. Recoiling in pain she stared up into the mismatched eyes of a girl. The pink and brown haired girl dressed in a tight white upper body jacket that flowed in the back with long leggings and white boots. She twirled a girlish parasol in her hands freely.
"Oh, it's you," Ilia muttered. "Just leave me alone."
The girl tapped her foot impatiently. Ilia came to realize early on that she did not speak. Whether she couldn't or wouldn't, Ilia hadn't a clue, but she supposed it didn't matter. The girl's name was Neo, and Neo was about to get punched after she offered Ilia her parasol in a mock gesture of courtesy. Ilia huffed and batted the stupid umbrella away before getting up on her own. Neo never lost her infuriating smirk, Ilia stood at least a head taller than the girl but couldn't shake the feeling that Neo was looking down on her. "No, I didn't get any new recruits. You saw what happened! It was a massacre out there! What kind of city turns on its own citizens? They were good people! People with families, hopes, futures!"
Neo simply stood there unimpressed, the same bored expression on her face. Illia wanted to punch her, hit her, and throttle her until that stupid smirk vanished. Every single person always looked at her with that same infuriating expression. Those stupid classmates of hers, this stupid bitch of a girl, even Blake had given her that same blank stare the first time they met. She was sick of it, sick of being the only one that seemed to care.
She had spent days rallying before the protest. She had volunteered, encouraged, and marched with so many supporters. She had talked to many of them, listened to their stories, and tried to help in any way she could. Blake would have been proud. But it all fell apart as bullets and smoke tore through them. Their banners burned and their words drowned out in the thick fear and smog.
Ilia huffed and tried to brush past Neo until her foot got caught on the parasol. Smacking onto the ground, ilia glared up at the girl who remained unfazed and stared at her expectantly. She never spoke but somehow Ilia knew what she was asking. "The mission failed. Happy?"
'That's right. I failed. And so many got hurt because of it.'
"Did you find the target?" Ilia asked. Neo quirked her eyebrow as if trying to express how stupid a question it was. "Of course, you did. While you were out scouting, I was here trying to help these people fight back. While you're standing there looking down on all of us, I'm trying to-"
Ilia didn't mean to scream; she didn't realize her voice was rising with each word. It wasn't until Neo slammed her foot into Ilia's stomach that the words came to a gasping halt. As Ilia choked on the air that she just couldn't release Neo suddenly pulled her further down the alley. They rounded a corner just before a pair of Officers turned the corner where the two had been mere moments before. Neo pulled Ilia down one alley and then rapidly turned around to another. They twisted, sprinted, and turned their way through the backside streets of Vale.
Ilia tripped and stumbled over trash cans and the wayward few homeless and drunks who were slumped along the back wall. Neo never loosened her grip and with grace avoided every obstacle in front of her. Ilia's legs and lungs burned as the tears flowed down her face. Today was too much. It was too much. She looked pathetic, she knew she did, but her grief was mounting and she couldn't hold it all in.
Finally, they rounded a corner and Neo spun Ilia around and slammed her against a wall with surprising force for a girl her size. Ilia stared down the mismatched pink and brown eyes that glared up at her. She wiped the blood from her nose with her arm and pushed the girl back. "I'm fine. I got carried away, it won't happen again."
Still, Neo did not move. Then in a split second, she swung the tip of her parasol just underneath Ilia's chin as if giving a warning. At that moment Ilia lost all of her remaining self-control and violently shoved the parasol away before trying to brush past the smaller girl.
"I said I'm fine damn it! I don't need someone like you trying to micromanage me!" Ilia found herself sprawled on the ground from a kick to her shin. She rolled away before the tip of the parasol smashed into her head. Ilia reached for her own weapon, tucked away snugly under the baggy shirt she had worn to blend into the crowd. Neo slammed her foot down onto Ilia's wrist and pinned the girl under her.
Ilia swung up with her other hand ready to beat and claw the other girl into submission before someone else burst through the back-alley door a few feet away from them. Geshen was a huge brute of a man. He towered over almost everyone and had thick wide arms that Ila had seen him lift and throw full-grown men around like children. So, it was no surprise when he reached down and hoisted Ilia back onto her feet with as much effort as an adult would pick up a pillow. Neo had shattered like glass and reappeared a few feet away, her broken semblance playing tricks with Ilia's mind and perception. Geshen kept the Grimm inspired mask of the White Fang firmly affixed to his face. Its deep red lines and monstrous appearance on such an imposing figure made him seem more beast than Faunus.
"Both of you cut it! I'm in no mood to break up a catfight tonight. If you want to pick this up tomorrow, we can sell out tickets and make a few extra bucks." Neo shot him a nasty glare that Geshen could not be bothered by. The girl stuck up her head and stalked into the building that Geshen had emerged from.
"Bitch!" Ilia cursed. She rubbed at her broken nose and winced as the pain set in. Her aura hadn't taken care of the damage yet, her focus had been too scattered and her emotions too frazzled. Now that she had a moment her aura slowly dampened the pain even as the blood still flowed.
"You look like shit," Geshen commented in his loud voice.
"Fuck you," Ilia said, and he simply laughed, it was an unpleasant sound. Geshen was larger and stronger than most, but he was as ugly as a Grimm, though through no real fault of his own. Ilia had the misfortune to see him once without his mask and even now she shuddered at the burned and scarred image. She remembered when Blake had told her about Geshens time in a mining colony near Atlas. He had been branded and scarred by the Atlesian officials in charge of the mine after he had stood up for the younger children when food rations were imposed. They had burned and mangled his face as a grizzly reminder to everyone else what would happen if they protested.
Thinking of Blake brought with it a spike of anger and confusion that Ilia forced back down. She didn't have the energy to think about it, not after everything else today.
"Why are you here?" Ilia asked. "Shouldn't you be with Adam? I thought there was some big meeting going down today between him and that Torchwick asshat?"
Geshen just shrugged. "Meeting fell through, we got a shipment of Dust and Grimm coming in tonight, a big one. Boss wants all hands there, so I was ordered to come pick you up."
"I'm not a child." Ilia shot back.
"Sure fight like one." Geshen laughed. "That multicolored chick got you good, if I hadn't stepped in you'd be glaring at me with a mouth of broken teeth."
"She got lucky." Ilia lied. "Next time I'll put her in her place."
"Sure," Geshen said and Ilia could practically feel the smugness coming from him, and Ilia was sure he was smirking under that mask of his. She brushed past him in a huff. As she went to open the backdoor Geshen called out once more.
"Boss wants to see you after. We leave in twenty, grab your shit and meet me out front." Ilia didn't bother to respond as she stormed into the safe house. She slammed the door behind her, she thought the show of anger would make her feel a little better but that same lump of dread that had saddled inside her earlier persistently remained.
Vale's ports were split into two primary sections much like the city itself. On one side there were pristine and well-kept docks that welcomed higher business and upper class cruisers. It held a stunning view of the ocean that caught Ilia by surprise. She breathed in the clear, salty air. It was a stark difference from the slums she had been shifting through the past few days.
Most of Vale's Dust facilities shot out stacks of thick pollution, turning the poorer areas in the city into smog infested deathtraps. Here however was free of any foul air. Ilia could see boats out in the distance, private cruisers, and luxury vehicles sailing in the expansive crystal blue. Ilia had never been sailing, though it didn't seem all that interesting. 'Who would want to spend their day stuck in the middle of the ocean?' She thought. 'Who even has time to waste like that?'
She stood there at the edge of the docks staring out until she was nudged from behind. It was Neo, the girl had a frown on her delicate face and jerked her head slightly, beckoning Ilia to follow. "I don't take orders from you, shortcake," Ilia grumbled and took no small satisfaction from the way the girl's face reddened in anger. Neo flipped her off before turning around and storming down the walkway.
Stuffing her hands into her baggy pants, Ilia followed the fuming girl with a snort. She had to change before they left the safehouse. All casual clothing, they couldn't afford to be identified as White Fang or Faunus. It was also probably why Neo hadn't just slugged her a moment ago, though Ilia had a feeling the girl would get her revenge sooner or later.
She eyed the tall cargo ships as they walked, the dozens of busying crews and people all loading and unloading important shipments. They looked so small from down below, just out of reach, and she wondered if she looked the same from their perspective.
The two stopped in front of a moderately sized passenger ship. It was pure white and highlighted with a deep blue. Atop the deck unfurled the flag of Mistral, a single burning lamp. It was meant as a symbol to ward off the encroaching darkness and guide the next generation into the future with the burning knowledge of the past. A whole lot of fancy sayings and shitty metaphors. In reality, Ilia knew Mistral was nothing more than a steaming crap hole no different than Vale.
'That stupid jackass Lionheart is still running Havens combat school, isn't he?' Ilia had met him once, during her stay with Blake one summer back in Menagerie. He was a sniveling coward too afraid of his own shadow to walk straight. 'Bet Mistral's own council could make him do whatever they wanted. City of progress? What a load of crap, just another political suck up.'
She leaned herself against a stack of boxes that had been unloaded from another ship. Some fancily dressed man with a clipboard looked at her with disdain but a glare from Ilia sent the man scurrying away, probably towards security, but it didn't matter much to her. "This whole city is just a bunch of cowards."
Neo looked at her in confusion before checking her wristwatch, her foot taping insistently on the ground. For as much as she hated the shirt girl, Ilia couldn't help but share in her impatience. They had been waiting at the docks now for what felt like hours. Geshen had told her she was to greet special guests arriving from Haven, big important friends.
When Ilia had questioned why he couldn't do it himself he just pointed at his mask. This was to be a big secret, the less attention the better. Even Neo had changed into something far more casual, though no less fashionable. Ilia didn't understand the girl's need to primp herself up for every outing, seemed exhausting to go through so much effort every time one stepped outside.
Ilia looked up as the ship finished docking. From its starboard, a long metallic ladder unfurled and locked itself into place like a giant snake clicking and winding its way to the ground in front of Ilia. Her gray eyes traced up the metal staircase as three new figures descended it.
One was dark skinned and fair, with mint green hair cut into a straight fringe with two long strands trailing behind her. She was fit and wore a snug upper jacket that left her midsection exposed to the warm Vale air. Ilia would be lying if she said she wasn't attractive. Her attention was jerked away when a tall silver haired boy in a casual jacket and jeans shoved his travel pack into her arms.
"So much for a warm reception. This is the best Torchwick could arrange for us?" Ilia could already feel the urge to break his nose rising up. "A little girl and strawberry colored dwarf."
His haughty smile turned into a yelp when Neo's heel found its way buried into his thigh. He rounded on her but by then Neo had turned away ever so innocently.
"Lay off Mercury. Or do you really want to start a fight here of all places?" The green haired girl asked.
"Wouldn't be much of a fight Em," Mercury shrugged. "I mean really, this is what we have to work with? I expected more from the White Fang and Vale's most notorious mobster."
"Now Mercury, you know as well as I do that all of us have a part to pay. Even the less amusing toys can still provide a service, they just need a little direction and purpose." It was a thick feminine voice. Ilia's eyes shot back up towards the top of the steps. A raven-haired woman stood proudly, her clear golden eyes watching over all of them like a bird circling high above. Ilia felt her skin crawl under her gaze. There was no amusement in those eyes, just an endless amount of contempt that Ilia could feel from where she stood. Mercury just waved her off, but Ilia noticed he had stopped his taunting immediately.
"Now then what do we have here?" The woman descended the stairs, each step slow and deliberate. Both Mercury and Em stood rigid and ready. Neo looked as bored as ever and thoroughly unamused. Ilia couldn't tell what she should be doing, she shifted awkwardly as the woman approached. Up close she could see her clear white skin, but her fierce eyes held all of Ilia's attention. The woman gripped Ilia's cheeks with a strong calloused hand and dragged her to eye level.
"Silver? No, gray eyes." The woman released her, and Ilia took a step back. "Shame, you'd make a wonderful pet for our master." Ilia's confusion was replaced with icy fear. "Mercury, Emerald." The woman demanded. Both were by her side in an instant. She turned to face Ilia. "We're leaving. I think we can find our way just fine. The hideout is still at Juniors club is it not?"
Ilia nodded dumbly; her tongue completely twisted. "Good, then that's where we'll be. Be a doll and let Adam know we will be in contact soon."
The woman patted Ilia's cheek, the impact wasn't hard, but it still left a stinging feeling as if the woman had burned her. Ila watched with confusion as they left waiting until their backs had fully disappeared until she rounded on Neo.
"What the fuck was that? Were those the special guests?" It felt as if all the things Ilia had wanted to say just minutes before came tumbling out all at once, like a drain that had been uncorked.
She was cut off when Neo thrust a piece of paper into her face. Ilia took it in her hands and looked down at it. It was an address. "What is this?"
Neo however simply shrugged at her and offered a small wave before walking away. "Hey wait a minute I wasn't done talking to you!"
Ilia reached out to grab the girl but as she made contact the illusion of Neo shattered like glass. Ilia spun around in anticipation and was met with a vicious swing of Neo's parasol. She hit the ground hard much to the confusion of the passing strangers. She looked through hazy eyes at Neo's cocky smile. This must have been the payback for her comment earlier. With a cheerful wave, Neo walked away, leaving Ilia lying there alone.
Geshen found her a few hours later on a bench some miles away from the docks. Ilia had managed to brush off the few people who had come to see if she was alright. She spat out the blood in her mouth and stormed away from the docks. The day had been too long, her head pounded in pain and confusion. She stumbled her way towards the nearest bench and planted herself there.
As she sat there cursing and fuming, she must have drifted off, because she awoke some time later to smack at a passing thief who had tried to pickpocket her as she slept. She truly hated this city. Ever since she had left Menagerie at the convincing of Adam everything had gone wrong. She wanted to stand up for her people, to fight back against the Humans that wronged the Faunus so many times but here she was. A scared girl in a city of strangers with not a friend in sight.
She had seen innocent men and women gunned down just hours previous, yet the city bustled and moved on as if nothing at all had happened. The White Fang was moving copious shipments of Dust and Grimm right under these city streets and yet no one looked even the tiniest bit afraid. The whole city reeked of stupidity and hypocrisy.
Ilia shut her eyes tight and tried to force down the surge of pain in her head. She probably looked like shit but couldn't be bothered to move. From the moment she stepped foot in this shit hole no one had told her a damn thing. She ran from one place to the next with seemingly no context all while others above her played games and laid out strategies she was not privy to. It pissed her off to be left in the dark, but she had come this far, and she would keep going. She opened her eyes and stared down at the address Neo had shoved into her hands earlier. It was the address of a former White Fang member that had defected. He had opened up shop somewhere here in Vale. Adam didn't take kindly to traitors and deserters.
She wondered what he would do now that he had the address, she wondered what he would do to Blake. She shuddered at the thought. She realized she could hide the address, say she lost it, anything but offer up someone to the cold hard fury of Adam. It probably wouldn't work but it may be better than the alternative. 'That would make me a traitor too then, wouldn't it? What would Blake do?' She shook her head ignoring the ache. 'No Blake made her decision. She left just like she said she wouldn't. She's nothing but a liar and a coward.'
She shoved the paper deep into her pocket, willing it to disappear. If she was lucky Adam would forget about it and she wouldn't be forced to make any decision at all.
"So, this is where you went and hid?" Ilia didn't bother to lift her head, Geshens rough voice was like sandpaper. "You never came back. The runt said you turned tail after our clients docked. Never took you for such a coward."
Ilia's nerves grated. "Fuck off. They went on their merry way, and I had time to kill. Simple as that."
She felt Geshens rough hand settle on her shoulder, she was about to brush him off, kick him in the face, and leave. She never got the chance as he hoisted her up from her jacket over the bench and back down onto the ground. "Get off it. You're no good if you're going to sit here and mope. We've got a job to do, and if you don't want to pull your own weight you can go rot with your buddies from the protest this morning."
Ilia was swinging her fist before she realized she was in motion. She hit Geshen square in the chest. Her breathing was hard and her whole body felt flushed with white hot fury. Her blow didn't even hurt Geshen. All he did was laugh. Ilia glared at him, his oversized hoodie covering the better part of his face.
"Knew you had some fire in you." He jerked his head slightly, "We got work, let's go."
His words only seem to enrage Ilia further. She kicked at his shin; she saw the fleeting grimace. She struck down at his foot, grinding her heel into it. "I said fuck off! I'm not some stupid puppet for you to boss around. If Adam needs me so badly, he can damn well come down here himself and say it to my face."
She hit him, clawed, screamed, and shoved. She ignored the people staring and ignored the scene she knew she was making. It felt good to lash out at someone to hit something after everything that had happened. It wasn't until she looked up once more into Geshens passive dark eyes that she realized what she was doing. Like a passing wind, all her fury and passion left her. She rested against Geshen, the tears suddenly starting to bubble back up. Her throat was raw and brittle, and she barely heard herself whisper an apology.
"You alright?" Geshens voice was lighter this time, though no less gruff. Ilia nodded against him.
"Then let's go. Just focus on the job and nothing else. Good things will come if you just wait long enough, push just a bit further." Ilia suddenly felt his large hand grip her wrist and pull her along quickly. "Police, let's go."
She looked back in time to see the flash of blue uniforms heading their way. They must have come in response to her screaming, they weren't chasing them, but if they were stopped it would lead to a whole slew of new problems.
"Sorry," She mumbled.
"Don't talk, just run." Geshen pulled her along until she was confident, she could follow without his help. She slipped her wrist free as they rounded a tight corner. They hugged the back alleys, cut over a few chain fences, and eventually slinked back to their hideout.
The massive Club was booming with obnoxiously loud music. The bright neon lights that illuminated the sign blazed above them. Juniors Club was a hotspot of illegal activity and trafficking in the city of Vale. One could find anything from Dust to drugs inside, and the main owner himself was well known in the underground as the largest information broker on this side of Saunus.
They came through a side entrance, avoiding the building line of customers outside. They followed up a spiral staircase lined with outdated shag carpet that had stained in one too many places. The two passed workers and high-profile clients, Ilia bumped and shoved her way through trying to keep sight of Geshens large frame in the mounting confusion.
She found herself pressed awkwardly between two dancing drunkards. Both looked a few years older than Ilia, fair if not a little skinny. Both reeked of alcohol and Ilia was sure both were high on something else. One ran a hand down her cheek and the other groped her from behind. She nearly threw her elbow to knock some sense into them before Geshen emerged and pushed her into an adjacent room. The heavy oak doors slammed shut behind them and the suffocating mix of music, thick fog, and pressing bodies were gone.
The room was large and spacious. Located on the upper floors of the club it avoided most of the general traffic, with the exception of the VIPS that seemed to congregate just outside. The silk carpet was a deep red. Large bookshelves flanked either side of the room, each holding some rare looking pottery and luxuries that Ilia was sure a man in Junior's position would never be able to afford above the waist.
The far end had a massive window that seemed to capture a view of the city scape. This section of Vale seemed to burn brightly in the evening. The neon light flooded the buildings and streets. She could see from where she stood the communication tower of Vale, its massive structure illuminated in the night sky like a large pillar of light against the night.
In front of the window was a simple dark wooden desk that had papers strewn about. The desk wasn't much but the man sitting behind it was another story. She had only known him for a brief time. Blake had introduced them a few years ago. She had seen firsthand his brutality and his conviction. She had never quite met someone so intense. Reclined in a leather chair sat Adam Tauraus. His dark red hair was trimmed short, and the black horns protruding from his head seemed to blend in almost seamlessly. The Grimm mask covered his eyes, but Ilia could still feel his cold gaze linger on her for a moment.
He was flanked by two women sitting on either side of the desk. Ilia knew they were Juniors hired guards. Both were dark haired beauties. The Malachite sisters were near identical with striking green eyes and fair features. They wore red and white to identify themselves from each other but Ilia couldn't care which was which. They took a shared second on her list, after Neo, of people that needed to get fed their own teeth. She realized with a start that the list had really gotten longer as of late. The two were inseparable and completely insufferable. Both gently caressed Adam's shoulders and slid just a touch closer.
"Boss," Geshen greeted.
"We leave at daybreak. I want the men rested and ready to move. We're heading for Mountain Glenn to prepare for the next stages, recheck the inventory and get some rest. We'll be gone for a while." Adam said and Geshen simply nodded before leaving through the wooden doors.
Sometimes it seemed like Geshen and Adam operated on the same wavelength. They never spoke much to each other but always seemed to know what the other was thinking. Ilia knew they had met in the White Fang when they were younger, but not much else. She never quite fit into their dynamic. Even now she shifted from foot to foot, unsure if she should go. She finally took the initiative and made to leave before Adam's voice rang out, crisp and commanding.
"Stay. Both of you out." He turned to the two girls. One dressed in a frilly white dress pouted. Her name might have been Melanie, though Ilia wouldn't lose sleep over not remembering. She Cooed softly at Adam in what Ilia supposed was to be attractive but came off as forced and weird.
"Oh, don't be like that, you can trust us. We won't let any of your secrets leave this room." Her voice was sickeningly sweet, and Ilia held the urge to gag. Adam seemed unconvinced as his hand slid down to his waist and pulled out his sheathed blade. He set it on the table with more force than necessary and the two girls jumped at the sound.
"Out, now." Melanie, to her credit, hid her uncertainty well. Masked it under an air of pride and haughtiness. "Come Miltia, let's see what our other guests are doing."
Her red dressed sister scampered after her as she left. It wasn't until the door was firmly shut that Adam relaxed his posture and sagged ever so slightly in his chair.
"I see you're awfully popular these days." Ilia tried to levy a joke, but the renewed glare from Adam shut her up rather quickly.
"Shove it. They're Junior's spies and nothing more. It seems everyone these days has someone trying to gain information. A city full of rats and vermin. I take it our guests found their way safely?"
"I feel bad for whatever poor sap tries to pick a fight with those three. With all due respect, you didn't need me there." Ilia said.
"I disagree. The closer our interests align with our new 'partners'," he spat the last word with full contempt, "The more I find myself in need of trustworthy allies. I sent you there because I need to know what to expect."
"I'm not sure what you mean." Ilia's tongue felt heavy remembering those ferocious golden eyes that seemed to simmer in her mind. "I don't know what good my opinion of them will do you"
"I'm trusting your intuition. It's the same reason Torchwick sent his little plaything. I'd like to know what to expect before I meet them myself. I need to know what I'm working with here."
"So, I'm just bait?" Ilia felt her temper rise.
"If that's how you want to view yourself then fine. I'm asking for your thoughts, but if you'd rather I just have you on Grimm shipments then I suppose that can be arranged." Adam rose to his feet. He was at least a foot taller than Ilia and his mostly black appearance gave him an air of intimidation.
"They're not trustworthy. The woman is the leader, the other two are just her lackeys." Ilia said.
"Anything else?" Adam asked and Ilia shook her head.
"It was over too quickly; they came off the ship and then they were gone." Something caught her memory. "No wait, the woman, she said something about their master. Said I'd make a good pet or something. I think there might be someone else above them."
Adam nodded his head and turned to face the window, the dancing neon lights shining brightly against his stoic white mask.
"This whole thing is getting out of hand. What are we even really doing all the way in Vale?" Ilia felt she might have stepped out of line, but she finally had the man alone and she needed some kind of answer.
"We're reminding the world that the White Fang still has fangs." Ilia was disheartened by his passive answer. She had heard that same line over and over again from all the other White Fang members.
"Dust shipments, Grimm trafficking over international waters and city limits, Mountain Glenn, and protests, what does it all amount to?" Adams' shoulders tensed and Ilia realized how thin the line she was walking. "You told me you wanted to trust my intuition so you knew what to expect, well I need to trust in your vision. I can't do that if you won't tell me anything. What are we fighting for here in Vale?" Adam turned to her, and Ilia flinched ever so slightly, however, there was none of the anger she expected. Instead, he was calm.
"Come here." It was a command.
Ilia approached the window, her grey eyes soaking in the full view of the cityscape. So many lights and colors, so much life and vibrancy.
"Can you see Beacon Tower?" Adam asked. Ilia nodded. "It sits high above the rest of the city, it casts down its shadow on the rest of us. Can you imagine what it's like to look down from such a place?"
Ilia couldn't. She couldn't fathom that kind of view, just the one in front of her was almost overwhelming. Adam continued, "Ozpin can, the Valean Council can. They sit up here casting their eyes down on the rest of us day in and day out. It's not just them. Atlas floats above the city of Mantle, crushing it under the weight of its pride and power. Mistral crushes its surrounding territories, leaving them with scraps to defend themselves. Vacuo is a barren wasteland with nothing but pretty words and strict immigration laws to offer. Each of the four kingdoms have relished in the sacrifices made by those crushed under them. And who do you think takes the brunt of it all?"
"The Faunus." On a purely technical level, Faunus backed slavery had been outlawed internationally by all four kingdoms, but in truth, it was a vibrant and thriving industry. Major companies used Faunus labor to revolutionize their industry. The Schnees had hundreds of Dust mining sites, each manned almost purely by Faunus workers. Ilia's own parents had died in a mining eruption, burnt to a crisp with dozens of others; it had barely made the evening news on Atlas's primetime.
"And what do we get in return? A broken city state with no means of production, a land mass half infested with wild Grimm hybrids, and not a single Huntsman school in sight. No rights to a military or self defense force, and entirely dependent on the goodwill of Atlas and Mistral to protect us. Last year alone, do you know what Menageries' greatest export was?"
Ilia shook her head. She hadn't had much time in Menagerie. She had only recently moved there, seeking refuge after her family had been killed.
"It's people. We're literally shipping our own people to maintain some unbalanced peace with superpowers that couldn't care less about us!" Adam's fists were clenched, and his teeth bared.
"But what are we doing here Adam? What do you intend to do?" She was terrified of the answer.
"We're going to send a reminder." It was a nonanswer.
"Are we going to kill women and children? Are we going to exterminate all these people? That won't help us, will it? It will just make us more hated." Ilia said.
"You sound like Blake," Adam said and Ilia recoiled at the accusation.
"I'm nothing like Blake." The name felt like a leaded weight in her chest.
"I didn't mean it as an insult, it's a bit refreshing if nothing else. Blake cared a lot about the future of the White Fang, but she was awful at understanding the short term. We can't afford to be bogged down in politics and public relations. We need force, we need to be feared. Atlas possesses the strongest military in the world and as a result, can do as they please across Remnant. If we could push these Kingdoms into a position where they have no choice but to heed our demands, then we can finally set the stage for all Faunus."
"But at what cost?" Adam said nothing, instead, he turned back to the desk and opened a drawer. He pulled out a small remote and clicked the button. A small television in the corner of the room that Ilia hadn't noticed before came alive.
A news program was running, and a reporter stood in what seemed to be a street somewhere in Vale. Adam upped the volume.
"That's right, we are coming to you live from downtown where earlier today a Faunus rights protest was broken up due to violent actions committed by White Fang extremists. The scene is that of absolute carnage. At least ten died and many more were injured at the time of this report. It is still unclear who the perpetrators are currently but local law enforcement and Huntsman authorities are working the scene."
The camera view changed to show the decimation of the city street caused by gunshots and fire. Ilia remembered her heavy breathing as she clawed on broken glass just hours prior. She remembered the screams and the smoke, the confusion and fear that had consumed the panicked masses.
"Luckily Huntsman were on scene and Police managed to de-escalate and subdue the violence before more damage could be done."
"That's not true!" Ilia shouted. "They fired on us! They were just trying to make their voices heard and they were gunned down. She's lying!"
Adam turned off the television. "Now do you, see? This is reality. No matter what we do we are still going to be monsters to these people. You watched firsthand how easily the Huntsman gunned down defenseless people, you know firsthand what happened. But who will believe you? Or the others involved? Not a damn person, and that's the truth Ilia."
Ilia couldn't stop the shaking. She was so tired. The heartache, the abuse, the panic, and the anger all settled into her bones, and she felt drained. She wanted to lie down and close her eyes. Maybe if she woke up things would be different, and all of this would have been one massive nightmare. For a moment she wondered what Blake would do in this situation. Blake always seemed to know exactly what to do and what to say. 'But that's not true, is it? Blakes a traitor after all isn't she?'
Adam's hand rested on her shoulder. It was firm and strong. "This is why we fight Ilia, to show the world that we won't simply roll over. If they view us as monsters, then we have no choice but to be monsters."
He opened another drawer and pulled out a Grimm mask. It was larger than his own, extending well over the nose and forehead. There were also two horns on the mask. Adam handed it to her. "I heard your other one was broken in a fight with Torchwicks little doll, so I had another custom made."
Ilia gently took the mask in her hand; it was heavier than it looked. She was unsure what to say.
"Only wear It if you mean to fight. If you're unwilling to fight the monsters without becoming one then you're better off leaving it." Adam was uncommonly somber; he had been that way since Blake had abandoned them. "But if you decide to do it, I will expect you to carry out our mission without exception. There will be no going back. Now, I heard you've received the address of our target?"
She knew it was possible that Neo would have sent information ahead. She felt numb as she handed over the small piece of paper that had been shoved into her pocket. Adam took it in his gloved hand as he turned away from her.
"I want you with me tomorrow. We'll both deal with the traitor before moving onto the Emerald Forest."
A thousand questions raced through her mind, and a thousand excuses and complaints died on her lips. "Why me?"
"A test of your conviction." And that was it, he spoke nothing more of tomorrow.
"Yes sir." She wanted to say more, but all of her words and fears clogged her throat.
"You've had a long day. Get some rest, I'll have Geshen retrieve you in the morning." With that Adam left. His heavy boots seemed to boom with each step. The door slammed behind him and Ilia was once more entirely alone. She slunk into the abandoned chair and stared out onto the streets of Vale. Hundreds of thousands of people, both human and Faunus alike. None of them knew what was coming, she didn't even know what was coming. Through all of her fear, and anger she was confused and lost.
Tukson's Book Trade was located in downtown Vale, sandwiched in between other larger buildings. From the outside, it looked older than most of the other buildings down the strip. It had large window panes and a deep green and reddish coloring that allowed it to stand out. Apparently, Tukson himself had bought it upfront with cash years ago. Since then, he had transformed a run-down studio into a bustling bookstore.
There was no one in sight now, however. The sun had barely cracked over the horizon when Geshen had woken her; an hour later she had found herself trailing behind Adam as he guided her through the city streets. The sooner they finished this task the sooner they would be gone from Vale.
"Are we even sure he's here yet?" Ilia asked, stifling a yawn. Her breath blew out in icy smoke and she huddled closer into her jacket. Winter was descending fast, and she had never been fond of the cold. She shuffled from foot to foot, forcing blood to flow around her tired and cold body. Ilia had slept awfully the night before. She had laid awake for hours, her mind racing with the events of the previous day. The few times she had begun to drift away, a memory would come tearing its way back through her and she would be forced to sit there and calm herself. It had been hours before she finally succumbed to a sleepless rest only for Geshen to have tossed her onto the floor when she refused to budge a few hours later. Her body felt like lead and the ache behind her eyes worsened as the sun kept rising.
"Tukson was always an early riser." Adam Said. "He's diligent."
"You know the guy?" When Adam had asked Torchwick to track down a White Fang deserter Ilia hadn't thought much of it. She thought Adam was simply trying to gauge how much he could trust the mobster; it had never occurred to her that it would be a personal affair.
"He helped me out when I first joined the White Fang," Adam said. He pushed the door open, much to Ilia's surprise. A bell rang out as they entered the store. Long rows of bookcases filled the shop.
"Sorry we're not open yet." A deep voice called out someone from deeper inside the store.
Ilia found herself trailing through the long isles of books. She traced over them with her eyes, all shapes and sizes each with a distinct look. Most looked worn down and aged. A mix of ancient pieces not too far gone and younger works not well received. It was a used had been a long time since she had been inside a bookstore. Not since her schooling days with her once friends. Blake had invited her on occasion to join her book shopping sprees in Menagerie, but Ilia had never taken up her offer. Looking back she felt herself missing those simpler days when they had all been together. Now it seemed like everything was falling apart. Adam had changed since Blakes disappearance, colder and more rigid. Illia was sure she had changed as well.
She picked up a book she recognized. It had been one of Blake's favorites. The worn rustic green of the cover had become faded and scarred, she could hardly even read the title. The book was about a man with two souls fighting for control over his body. Ilia had picked out a newer edition for Blake's birthday. The black haired girl looked so grateful and happy at the time. The memory brought a smile to Ilia's face.
"Sorry about that." A man said as he appeared from a doorway behind the wooden counter in the back of the store. "We just received a new shipment, been unloading it since late last night. We aren't officially open until later but if you really need something I'll see If I can help."
Tukson was a tall broad shouldered man with dark hair cut short. His long sideburns shaped his face and he dressed in a casual red shirt and green vest. His strong muscular arms were scarred and gave the impression he had seen his fair share of fights. He stopped short as he saw Adam in the middle of the store. His eyes flashed over to Ilia as she emerged from her spot, like an animal eyeing a potential target before refixing his sight on Adam.
"I'm looking for someone," Adam said, his hand rested on the hilt of his sword and unsheathed the long crimson blade he had named Wilt. It was a striking piece of work. An infusion of metal and fire dust into a long slender blade. The dark red blade sent shivers down Ilia's spine; she had seen firsthand what it was capable of. "A former top commander of the White Fang."
"No one like that around here." Tukson remained impassive. He crossed his arms over his chest and leaned back against the wall. "I'm just a simple bookseller. If you're looking for a certain author or book series, I'm your man. Might I recommend Ninjas of Love for the lady? It's popular amongst teens, one of my regulars seems to have really taken a shine to it."
Adams grip tightened on his blade, and he grit his teeth much to Ilia's confusion. "Let's cut the bullshit Tukson, you know why I'm here. You left the White Fang, abandoned it and turned tail. Now here you are pretending to be one of them, and for what?"
"Not sure what you mean. I'm just a humble business owner trying to make ends meet. Business has been rough these last few months though. Uptake in violent crime and dust robberies. Can't seem to get much business at night, folks too scared to leave their homes." Tukson replied calmly, his leveled gaze never breaking from Adam's masked fury. "The White Fang I was a part of would have never done something like this."
"Don't give me that! Too scared to leave their homes? Doesn't that sound familiar?" Adam gritted out. "How many times did we have to hide from illegal Atlas searches? Menageries' ports under heavy restrictions? I remember the day I joined the White Fang, don't you?"
Tukson said nothing.
"I remember a small boy clinging to life in a sinking dingy off the coast of Menagerie, a dozen other kids either dead or dying with him. I remember you hiding them under the port as Atlas officials made their rounds. That's fear Tukson, that's despair. And yet while we sit and do nothing the other kingdoms carry on. While our people rot and starve the rest of Remnant carries on as if nothing happened." Adam sliced through a shelf in his rage. The splintered wood crumbled to the ground. "You told me of a shared dream, you filled my head with ideas of a united Menagerie. A kingdom to ourselves with no bowing and groveling to Atlas and Mistral. That's what the White Fang is! Until you turned away from it, up and abandoned us. I want to know why."
Tukson looked grim. His dark eyes were suddenly heavy and his shoulders sagged. "Have you ever wondered what the cost of that freedom is? If we rebel against the world, we'll only isolate ourselves more. Don't you see kid, trying to fight our way out will only make us more hated, and we'll only end up getting more innocent people killed? It's not worth it."
"So, we should sit still and wait, do nothing as we're trampled over and killed? You want us to give up the fight because you're afraid of spilling blood?" Adam asked.
"No. But there is a better way. Progress can't be forced like this. We have to show the world we can stand with them, not against them. Menagerie will one day be a recognized Kingdom, but it will take time and patience." Tukson said.
"So, we should just forget about those already being crushed. Just cast them away so our future generations may have the potential for a little longer leash. When did you get so soft?" Adam asked.
"When I had my little girl. There are some things you can't sacrifice, no matter what." Tukson said solemnly.
"So, you'd throw away the future of all Faunus for your own selfishness?"
"Could you cut down your little girlfriend Adam? Could you cut down Ghira?" Tukson asked and Ilia for a moment saw Adam hesitate.
"If I had to." He finally said. Ilia couldn't see his eyes, but she saw the slight quiver in his hands, his blade shook ever so slightly.
Tukson chuckled to himself. "You're a shitty liar you know?" He took a step forward. "So, let's get this over with. After this is over what happens to my daughter?"
Adams' rage disappeared for a moment and his voice came out level. "The White Fang will welcome her with open arms."
A second passed of pure silence, then in a flash Tukson bounded over the counter. His powerful legs sprung him through the air like a beast pouncing onto its prey. His nails turned to claws and he swiped down at Adam.
The battle lasted only seconds. Ilia had promised herself she wouldn't turn away, but when the blood sprayed out, she turned her back and clenched her eyes shut. Tukson died in an instant. She scurried out of the front door and gasped for air. She hadn't stayed to watch Adam clean the mess. She couldn't bear the thought of staying there. She was no stranger to a fight, but she had never seen something so suddenly brutal. She leaned her back against the glass of the store and tried to steady her racing heart. Memories of the day before flashed in her mind and she felt like she was losing herself. She clenched at her head and forced the icy air into her lungs, her chest hurt, and her head pounded.
"Drink." She heard Adam say and something cold shocked her from her inner thoughts. She looked to see Adam pressing a bottle of water toward her head. "Get control of yourself."
She took the water and forced herself to drink. Her throat felt tight but the more she drank the better she felt. Her head and mind were still in tatters, but she had at least regained some of her bearings. "Thanks." She mumbled.
"It gets easier. The violence I mean." Adam said and Ilia wasn't sure if he was trying to comfort her. "It's a lot at first but eventually you begin to understand why it's necessary."
"Did he have to die? He sounded important to you." Ilia asked.
"He was a traitor. He knew too much about us and if he were to ever go to the authorities we would be finished." Adam said, but the tightness in his voice made her think he was hiding how he really felt.
"And his daughter? What happens to her?" Ilia asked.
"We have a ship ready to take her back to Menagerie. Her grandparents will take over custody. She shouldn't have to suffer because her father was a traitor."
"Does that mean Blake has to be eliminated as well?" The thought had festered in her sometime the day before and the thought of it shook her. If Blake had to be eliminated, she didn't think she could bear the thought.
"Blake will see reason," Adam said.
"And if she doesn't?" Ilia pressed further.
In response, Adam began walking. Startled Ilia hurried to trail behind him, leaving behind her the now empty Bookstore with nothing but rows of ancient books and a man now cleaved into two.
They had touched down in the thick foliage of Mountain Glenn hours later. Ilia dismounted from the small ship and looked around the small camp that had been erected. They had holed up inside an abandoned research facility deep in the heart of the Emerald Forest. The building was a relic of the Great War. Moss and thick foliage wound through the cracks in such a way that showed the decay of the building. A faded and scarred white spear decorated the side of one of the walls, Atlas. It had been painted over with the White Fangs sigil almost as soon as they had all taken up residence.
Outside of the research facility, she saw White Fang members unloading cargo from other ships. Grimm railed against their cages as they were transported into the facility. They snapped and struggled in their chains while White Fang tried to get them under control.
She knew that this was only one of their bases of operation here around the Emerald Forest. They had a direct train line inside of Glenn itself where most of their dust shipments were headed. Here, however, is where the bulk of their Grimm shipments went. Apparently, another 'partner' of theirs was interested in Grimm mutations. Ilia had heard from others that the man was mad and completely unhinged, often going on for long rants about the beauty of the Grimm and their unique biology. Ilia watched a Grimm Mantis stick its long-angled head out between the bars and try to pierce the man pushing its cage. He leaped back at the last minute and the bony Grimm clicked in possible dissatisfaction. Ilia couldn't imagine what anyone could find beautiful about Grimm.
She followed after Geshen. Two guards were stationed at the heavy rust tinted doors to the facility. They saluted him as he passed, the metal door groaned and squealed unpleasantly as it slid open. Most of the interior electronics were archaic and barely functioned properly. As they walked through the barren hallway Ilia ran a hand over the chilly metal of the hallway as they walked.
Their footsteps rang out through the never-ending hallway. The base was built upon an expansive network of underground tunnels reaching deep into Mountain Glenn. The passages seemingly ran on forever and in every direction though most had collapsed over the years. It would be easy to get lost in this dank underground. It spread from the base of the mountain near the city limits of Vale. It was perfect for smuggling operations.
They turned a crumbling corner, and Ilia found herself in a large open room. It was poorly lit except for the dull green glow of massive tubes erected in long rows throughout. Each row contained exactly six tubes. Each was filled with vibrant green fluid and housing individual Grimm. Each a proud new creation of their new partner. There were six columns in the room itself. She hadn't explored any more of the base. There could be far more for all she knew, hidden far away in the deep dank halls and rooms of the facility. The Grimm were each different. She spotted an Ursa floating in rigidly in one. Another tube had a Boarbutusk, similar to the others its eyes were green, and it had long awkward crystals jutting out from its body. Ilia had heard that some of these new experiments had already killed a few of their members. They had broken loose, and it had taken most of them to subdue the mutated Grimm.
He stepped in front of the largest tube, far bigger than all the others. It stood centered in the middle of the room. A massive dark green eye stared back at her. The tube reached all the way to the ceiling early a story above her, and the tube descended far into the ground. Its eye alone was almost as large as she was. The Grimm inside was alive, harmless now but no less dangerous. She had never seen one this massive before. Geshen had called it an enlarged Creep but Ilia didn't know if that was what it was or what he thought of it. Long crystal-like structures jutted out from its back much like the other experiments in the lab. These experiments were supposed to be far stronger, faster, and more durable than natural Grimm in the wild. If this thing got loose, she wasn't sure she could understand the damage it would do.
"So, we're supposed to guard this place?" She asked Geshen who was fiddling with a control board in the corner of the room. She hadn't spoken much to him during their trip. She had been replaying that morning over and over in her mind. Geshen hadn't asked any questions when they returned, just shoved her packed gear into her arms and led her to the ship. She had been grateful for the silence, and she was sure Geshen knew what she was thinking, or at least feeling. But he had been willing to leave her alone and that had been enough.
"We're transporting most of these to the primary facility in Glenn in a few days. Until then we have to make sure all the equipment and Grimm are ready for transport." Geshen said as he fiddled with the panel. "Damn things broken."
"What are you even doing?" She walked closer and brushed past him. His overly sized chainsaw sword hung dangerously loose at his waist. The thing was massive, and Ilia doubted anyone except Geshen with his stupidly massive strength could use something so obscene.
"We should have comms. Boss is coming back tomorrow, and I want to make sure we have everything in order before he does, but the damn things rusted over." Geshen said. Ilia looked down at the ancient electronics and grimace. Most of the wiring had been chewed through and random strings of wire stuck haphazardly out of the rusted metal surface. She reeled back as Geshen slammed his massive fist down on the panel.
"Don't break the damn thing!" Her surprise was replaced with shock as the screen above them buzzed to life.
"Heh. Just needed a little force, is all." Geshen said proudly.
"You're an idiot." She commented dryly. Geshen protest was cut short as a figure came through on the screen. A gray-haired man looked down on them. He had a pointed white beard and a thick mustache. His gray eye watched them suspiciously as his robotic left eye glowed with a deep red. He was dressed in a large white coat.
He huffed indignantly. "I finally made contact. I expected more punctuality from the White Fang, but I suppose you get what you pay for."
"What the hell does that mean?" Geshen asked angrily.
"No time for that now." The man dismissed them. "You are the ones looking after my precious children?"
"These are your experiments?" Ilia asked, suspicion still thick in her voice.
"Yes, I believe I just said that girl. Now listen very carefully, the both of you. They must be maintained carefully, and under no circumstances are they to be harmed." He spoke with exasperation.
"No promises you wet old fart, if they lash out, we'll put them down. Protect our own." Geshen responded.
"No, you ignorant fool!" Ilia was taken aback by the severity in his voice. "They will explode if killed. And these in particular have not been fine tuned. The resulting damages could be catastrophic."
Ilia looked back toward the massive tube in the center of the room. The sheer size of the Grimm had intimidated her, but now the idea of it exploding made her stomach drop. If that thing got loose and even worse if it was put down how many could it kill? The idea sent a shiver up her spine. She was way in over her head and once again she felt the icy grip of dread clench itself around her.
"So we're transporting a breathing bomb?" Geshen asked. The man simply snorted.
"They are far more than that. My creations are the epitome of evolution itself. They can survive far longer on their own, are far more durable, and above all are far more intelligent. What you are transporting is the beginning of a new age. A revolution for all of Remnant. These children may very well be the key to infinite energy and untapped and inexhaustible labor. They will guide us into the future."
"Or kill us all." Ilia countered.
"All life requires generations of sacrifices before it develops into its strongest form." His words were icy and direct. There was no reason in cold gaze, only hardened resolve. His iron-clad fanaticism unnerved Ilia and she felt herself at a loss.
"Makes no difference. Jobs a job." Geshen shrugged and Ilia rounded on him.
"How can you possibly be okay with this? If these things go off in the camp, or even the city there's no telling the kind of damage it could do!" She said. She had seen enough bloodshed. Whatever Adam and his new partners had planned it would result in untold violence. Geshen shrugged and it only enraged her further.
"We have a job to do. Either do it and get it done or don't and leave. Either way, it's gotta happen. Easier to live like that." The man on the screen began to open his mouth but Gehsen quickly smashed his fist on the control board and the screen turned black.
"He was getting annoying." He commented as Ilia looked at him.
"How can you possibly be alright with knowingly transporting these things?" She asked. "Even after everything that's happened how can you be alright with transporting this thing?"
"Because I believe in the Boss. He hasn't let me down so far, and I've no reason to doubt him now." He didn't elaborate. Instead, he hoisted his chainsaw sword over his shoulder and stalked out. He called over his shoulder. "There should be more on the lower floors, the bigger ones and all. This batch is all the smaller ones. I'll check on the others."
Just like that, he was gone. He left Ilia there, standing all bathed in the bright green lights of the tubes. The Grimm were alert, she realized. Now that she had only their company, she could see their eyes trailing her, green and unfeeling they stalked her as she made her way to the door. They lingered on her, and she could feel her skin shrivel under their unblinking gaze. She turned back to them as she opened the metal door. They sat in perfect stillness as if waiting for a chance to strike, to tear apart everything in their wake. She hovered for only a moment before turning away, a question still fresh on her lips.
"What am I doing?"
A.N: And I am finally back. I want to start off by apologizing for my massive hiatus. There were so many different things going on in my life that this story kind of fell by the wayside. That being said I do have a good chunk of the next few chapters already laid out. So hopefully I can maintain a weekly schedule for at least a little bit. I don't quite know if the next hiatus is right around the corner especially with school starting up. Regardless thank you all so much for the constant support for this story and if you enjoyed it, I hope you leave a comment and maybe a follow. Thank you all again so much for being so patient. And I hope you enjoyed this chapter. I know ilia is a bit of a shift away from what we were doing, but she serves an important heart for what is to come. Again, every single credit belongs to Commissar ArtyFor being the best possible beta reader. Without them, I don't think this next chapter would have seen the light of day. They have kept me focused, and on point at every turn. If you haven't already, please check them out and give them as much support as possible. I hope you enjoyed this chapter and there will be a new chapter next Wednesday. Take care.
RandoFox
I've really thought about it before. However I greatly enjoy this type of formatting. It feels more like an open conversation with commenters and fans, and it also enables me the opportunity to answer some of the questions and concerns that others may have. Overall I just prefer this type of formatting. I understand that it tends to bloat the word count however this is simply what I feel most comfortable with. Regardless thank you so much for the review and I hope you enjoyed it.
Gonsmoss
If I'm being completely honest, I've been having some issues with both Ren and Ruby. They both serve important parts later on in the story, and how I've handled them thus far is a bit unsatisfying. Regardless just like Jack, they will have a much larger role play later. Move that being said I've come to realize that writing for Ruby is extremely fun, she offers a kind of levity that some of the other characters just don't. I'm happy that you enjoyed the story and I look forward to hearing more of your thoughts. Thank you so much for the review and I hope you have a great day.
Kabuto S. Inferno
Ozpin might be the single hardest character for me to write. He has such an expansive history, that it becomes problematic with what I think he should do, and what he would do. A big intention I had with his sit down with Jaune, was mainly to bring rise to the question of what Jaune he's fighting for. In doing so I wanted to also focus on how Jaunes actions during initiation could be perceived by others. Pyrrha has a sense of gratitude and understanding for Jaune due to the events of the forest. However, Ozpin I think would have a much more critical view. Regardless of what happens next, I really think that Ozpin's point of view will be put more into perspective. There was a lot of buildup that has been happening in these last chapters that will ultimately result in the climax of this next section of the story.
On another note, writing for Lucia was surprisingly fun. I had a lot of issues trying to nail down her personality, so to hear that she came across very well even in her short appearance is extremely reassuring. Both she and August are going to be instrumental in the development of early Jaune. These next few Jaune chapters are going to be instrumental in setting up the major themes and emotional conflicts of his character. There is a lot that is going to happen very quickly and I'm so excited to hear your thoughts in regard to those moments.
Jack is another special case. A new from the offset what I wanted to do with him, and where he would end up in the story. But once I sat down to actually write out his scene, I became more conflicted on how I wanted to present him. He is a focal point for Jaune, ends offers us perhaps the best possible view of what the Grimm Lands are. Also, he may or may not be an instrumental figure in another silver eyed character's development, but we'll just have to wait and see. While on the topic of mentor figures, Port is going to be an absolute unit moving forward. I never expected to utilize him as much as I am in the early stages of this story. But just as Jack offers us an insight into the Grimm Lands, Port will offer us an insight into the world of Huntsman. And both worlds will collide through the character that is Jaune.
As a last little bit, I will say that Ruby is a very fun character to write about. The only other character that I might enjoy more from a pure dynamic level might be Nora. I don't want to spoil anything, but there are massive changes on the way. And it all starts with this chapter.
I was never able to really get into Warhammer 40K, there just seems to be so much content. That I have no real basis for where to start. If you have any suggestions, I'd love to hear them. Regardless thank you again so much for your in-depth reviews, they really do meet a lot and they also really help me put things into perspective. I'm so glad you enjoyed that last chapter and I really hope you enjoyed this one period I hope you have a great day.
Ornstein
Well, I hope this one was worth the wait. I'm really sorry that I just disappeared, so many things happened in quick succession. Before I knew it the story had just kind of fallen to the wayside. But I am back, and I do hope to try and get out a good chunk of the story before the next inevitable hiatus. I am also happy to hear that you enjoyed Lucia. I really wanted to make her stand out as her own character, well still being a central portion of John's story. I was really worried that the original characters that I introduced would come across as one-dimensional, or corny. But to see that she's had such a positive reception is extremely reassuring. I'm so happy you enjoy the chapter and I hope this one lived up to the very long wait. I hope you have a great day.
TheSlySage
I don't want to spoil anything. However, I will say that I do have more in store for Lucia going forward. She has her own special part to play in this entire situation. I am super glad to hear that you enjoyed her character and her dynamic with Jaune. Again, I won't spoil anything for you here but there will be more of her. Also, it's nice to hear that some of the themes that I was trying to lay down in the last chapter came through. Thank you again for the review, it's really great to hear your thoughts and these kinds of comments are what really keep me coming back to this story. I'm sorry for the wait and I hope you enjoyed this last chapter. Have a great day.