Congrats to the reviewers out there who instantly saw who Devvrat was, props to Raptor, the first Guest reviewer, Shadow of the Jedi and Spartan-626. He is my Thrawn. He will be a fun character to write as he is heavily inspired off of my favorite Star Wars villain but with my own additions to him. He is a specialist from Atlas and is a very formidable opponent. Also ten points to each of you, well done. I'd have some applause for you but sadly that doesn't come with the site, be sure to get some from YouTube.
He is unlike most villains cause like Thrawn, Devvrat greatly respects his opponents and will truly appreciate the challenge that the Avengers pose to him.
But there is one thing. I'm gonna give you guys the chance to create his own Semblance for him before I think of one. You have two chapters for time because of the time in between me writing the next chapter so PM me on ideas on just what Devvrat's Semblance shall be. Don't make it so fucking crazy, make sure it falls in line with who he is and make it powerful but not overtly winning as Devvrat will be fighting the Avengers which are no pushovers.
So enough about that, let's get on with the story
And happy new years to you happy fucks out there
Rate Read and Review and as Always Have Nice Day
Avenging Remnant Chapter 12: We've seen this before
Devvrat carefully examined the set of glowing rifles Arthur Watts had delivered to him no less than two days ago during their meeting.
Said supplier was also here, watching Devvrat carefully observe the weapons on hand.
The former specialist was utterly silent both in breathing and movement as he handled the rifle in his hands with extreme vigilance as to make sure it does not go off in his hands.
Watts would be fooling himself if he denied being a little tense. He really wanted to make sure this went off without a hitch seeing as how this was a direct order from Salem.
But he managed to keep his composure while Devvrat methodically took the gun apart to examine every piece of the weapon.
"I hope that this wasn't slapped together at the last minute, Mr. Watts" Devvrat finally spoke up after what felt like hours "Because I'd prefer to equip my men with weapons that function properly and will not blow up in their faces"
"What do you take me for, Devvrat?" Watts said, slightly indignant "A charlatan?"
"There are many words that I would use to describe you Mr. Watts" Devvrat said, his red eyes remaining locked onto the weapons he was inspecting "Thankfully, thus far, charlatan is not amongst them"
"Oh?" Watt's interest was piqued "And pray tell, what words have you use to describe me?"
"Postured, disciplined, arrogant" Devvrat listed off "Gentlemanly with a slight air of detachment from others"
Watts blinked at the accuracy of his description while the man continued
"You live only to your queen who has truly given you meaning and while you are unlike Tyrian in that regard, your version of torment and pandemonium revolves around the psychological aspect of it" Devvrat's red eyes finally glanced over to the spectacularly mustached man "Am I wrong?"
Watts couldn't hold back the grunt of acknowledgment towards Devvrat who resumed his inspection.
Watts once more was truly impressed with Devvrat's capabilities, not only in being a brilliant tactician but also possessing a keen eye in analyzing people. If only he was fully committed to Salem's cause, who knows what could be accomplished by a man who was once so high up in the military structure of the kingdom of Atlas. In another lifetime, had Watts met Devvrat at a younger age, he may have called the man a close confidant, perhaps even close friend.
However, Devvrat was forged from a different fire than Watts and had a set of morale and ethics that Watts and Salem would have found troublesome. One person with morals in the inner circle was more than enough.
Devvrat eventually set the gun down and looked to Watts, arms behind his back.
"Mr. Watts, with all due respect, as tempting as an offer you have given me I cannot, no, will not endanger the lives of my men with new machinery that has clearly not undergone proper field testing and is using a power that I do not recognize" Devvrat said respectfully "You will have to show me more than just them firing correctly"
Watts blinked at the response to the weapon, but was prepared for this.
"Do not worry" Watts said "I have some men from one of the other lieutenants of the cleansers ready to test these weapons"
"Oh?" Devvrat said "And who have you chosen?"
"Someone I believe you are familiar with" Watts said knowingly "Lieutenant Stryker"
Devvrat cocked a brow at the choice "The religious fanatic? I am surprised you went to him"
"The easiest guinea pig" Watts said with a truthful shrug "Just a few words of inspiration. A holy war context hear, religious weaponry crusade there and he jumped at the opportunity. It's a wonder why a man such as he is a lieutenant. Him being a cleanser made sense but his ranking does not"
"Say what you will about the man, Mr. Watts but he has garnered notoriety for this organization with his methods" Devvrat said "However his use of lethal force should not be commended"
"I am surprised by that. I have heard just how effective you can be with your own methods" Watts stated
"They are at times a necessity" Devvrat countered easily "I do not enjoy inflicting that level of pain as it will instill fear which will in turn lead to anger and then the eventuality of violent responses that will accomplish nothing. We need to make statements, not manifestos"
Once more, Watts was stumped by the word play Devvrat displayed. Articulate, precise, detailed just like the man himself. As if every word held meaning and was not to be taken lightly.
He had something to say in every word and he will only repeat himself when necessary.
It is something Watts made sure to remember as he had been memorizing everything Devvrat says and sometimes keeps a recorder on him.
The man before him was a genius with words and tactics and he will take everything into account.
"What exactly is the purpose of these weapons, Mr. Watts?" Devvrat inquired, eyeing him critically "Advancements are quite natural in warfare and combat seeing as how we are in a constant state of it due to the Grimm. However these weapons are clearly something else. They are powered by an energy I do not recognize. There are traces of dust in them yes, but something else entirely"
Watts remained stoic in Devvrats deduction
"This is an extreme" Devvrat surmised "An extreme response. These types of responses come about only when an extreme situation or challenge presents itself. So tell me, Mr. Watts. What is this Extreme challenge that has lead you into creating this radically new response? Because currently, as I see it. There may perhaps only be one challenge that has come up that warrants a reaction such as this"
Watts had to give it to the man, his mind was beyond brilliant.
"The Avengers" Watts said plainly "The Queen sees them as worthy adversaries and threats and has come to the conclusion that our normal, standard methods may not be enough in combatting them. We have resorted to upping our own capabilities in fighting back against beings with abilities that we know not of"
Devvrats face shifted into one of surprise and great intrigue.
"The Avengers you say" Devvrat brought a hand up to his chin "From what I've seen, they are truly a worthy force for good it seems"
"Good?" Watts snorted "Unusual to hear that from you of all people"
"I am realist Mr. Watts" Devvrat said plainly "I realize my actions and who it is I fight for are not necessarily popular amongst the people of Remnant. This organization is responsible for many atrocities against not only Faunus but humans as well"
"Then why support such a cause?"
"Purpose for now" Devvrat replied in a tone stating that he did not want to divulge his reasons any further.
Watts knew better than to pry.
He held up his hands in a placating manner showing he will now delve any further.
"Before we conclude our business, there is something else I wish to discuss with you" Watts said
Devvrat remained silent, his expression conveying the response of 'go on'.
"Salem believes it shall soon be time to expand those under our influence for the advancements of our plan" Watts said "With your organization, we only needed you to speak with the leader of the Cleansers"
"And you require my skillset for who this time?" Devvrat asked
"The White Fang" Watts said, slightly surprising Devvrat
The red eyed former specialist then nodded in understanding.
"A quick additional militarized force" Devvrat surmised "You will attempt the same method you employed with the Cleansers"
"Indeed we shall" Watts confirmed with a nod
"Then which lieutenant is it that you wish to target?" Devvrat inquired "From what I have been able to gather, the only one within the organization that holds similar position and influence to what I have is only Adam Taurus"
"Precisely" Watts complimented "I believe we shall need your expertise in our efforts to have the White Fang join us for their greater interest"
"Adam Taurus is a cold, yet heated, angry, violent and dangerous individual" Devvrat said
"Yes, one who was beaten by the leader of the Avengers" Watts informed "The one known as Steve Rogers"
"Ah, so you wish to use that against him in strong arming the White Fang over to the side of Salem" Devvrat said
"Right once more" Watts commended
"You have a multi layered plan it seems" Devvrat said
"Yes" Watts nodded "And it requires your council. Salem was insistent on it, as am I"
"What will I gain in exchange Mr. Watts?" Devvrat asked
"Knowledge" Watts answered straight away "Ancient knowledge that long been forgotten or transformed into myth for the unaware and uninitiated"
Devvrats red eyes bore into Watts'. Seeing no falsehood in them, Devvrat nodded in agreement.
"We have an accord then" Devvrat said and the two shook hands
Watts smiled sinisterly at the prospects to come with the aid of Devvrat.
This could be the tipping scale that they need in keeping pace with Ozpins radical new allies.
All the while, Watts was unaware of Devvrats own thought process as he pulled out his Scroll pad and brought up an image of the Avengers.
He eyed each one of them individually, taking in their appearances, postures, and any videos or photos of them in action.
Even though some of the other Avengers had some truly amazing and fantastical powers, Devvrats eyes remained solely focused on the man with the shield that seemingly defied logic when in use.
Devvrat began to mentally evaluate everything about this singular individual. Him, the archer and man in the wingsuit.
This Steve Rogers was the leader, having a natural charisma and skillset that distinguished him above his peers. In Devvrats eyes, this man above all others is the sole focus that he will formulate his plan around.
He could tell that Watts' main priority revolved around the more powerful members of these Avengers but Devvrat saw more clearly than others that the strength of true power is in the heart and indomitable will of the individual leading them.
Take out their leaders. Show that you can harm those that they lead, those that are clearly stronger than they are. But when you take off the head, take off the one who has the capability of leadership. That's dead.
At least, that's what Devvrat currently believes.
He undoubtedly views each of these Avengers as more than a challenge for him.
The twins whose powers he has yet to fully understand.
The man in the shrinking suit was to most a kind of unpredictable enemy, but all people have a pattern to how they operate themselves and this Ant-man was none the wiser.
But it was the three who utilized practical skill, more basic tools and a level of higher technology that held Devvrats attention.
These three specifically were clearly and definitively much more experienced than the others. Each one holds the air of a veteran combatant, especially the archer and the shield bearer. The flyer was one he would assess with greater scrutiny right after he analyzed this Clint Barton and Steve Rogers.
Experience usually triumphs over all kinds of Power and Devvrat knew that this was gonna be his greatest test to date.
'Let's get to work' Devvrat mentally mused, preparing the first set of files that were available on Steve Rogers.
Salem's lair
The Queen of the Grimm was alone within a darkened room, the only light being on the center where she stood.
She had her eyes closed with her hands interlaced together facing down.
There was a silent hum in the air, giving off ambience.
Opening her eyes after several long moments of silence, Salem lifted her hands and opened them to reveal the vial with the remaining contents of blood from Steve Rogers.
Narrowing her eyes, Salem twirled the glass between her fingers before uncorking the vial. With a twirl of her wrist, a black pool of the ooze substance where her Grimm are born from appeared before her. Tilting the vial, the blood of an Avenger fell into the pool.
The reaction was chaotic as the pool began to bubble with crackles of energy shooting out from the black ooze.
Smiling sinisterly, Salem shut her eyes and hovered her hands over the black pool.
She began murmuring beneath her breath with an incantation that sounded like hissing. There was an unusual high pitch of a sound so high that only the trained ear could hear it.
The air around Salem grew heavier as her chanting grew louder after every complete sentence.
Soon enough after several minutes of speaking the spell, a red orb appeared between her hands as her chanting grew to the point of shouting. The spell was reaching its crescendo when Salem capped it off with her final phrase, the only one being in English.
"I CALL UPON THE ENEMY OF VENGEANCE AND RAGE TO BRING DOWN THIS ADVERSARY"
Salem threw the sphere into the ooze and the substance went still.
The queen took a step back and smiled with an evil gleam in her eyes.
There were several shifts from the blackness before returning to its motionless state.
Suddenly, a pitch black pillar with liquid ooze splashing out from the puddle.
The pillar had chaotic red energy crackling all around while the blackness simply swirled in place like a violent tornado. The room was buffeted by powerful winds which completely unaffected Salem as she observed her handiwork at long last reach its end.
The pillar quite literally dispersed and vanished from existence, revealing a figure from the inside.
Salem quirked a brow, curios as to what her spell had brought her but after a quick readout with her abilities on the individual before her, she sensed both blood and bloodlust completely shrouding the being.
She could only grin in satisfaction and anticipation as to how she could utilize her newest tool in her campaign to conquer Remnant.
Scene Cut Several Days Later
Village on the outskirts of Vale
Steve ran forward, holding his shield by the edge and effectively sliced through a Beowulf's neck, decapitating the Grimm.
Up above Sam and Wanda were fighting off Grimm Griffons that were attempting to go after the village that they were tasked in defending.
Luckily, any Griffon that got past them were quickly disposed of by Clint or Amber.
Pietro and Scott were down with Steve engaging the Grimm, fighting a group of Beringels.
The village had apparently reported to the city of Vale itself that they had been experiencing an increasing number of Grimm attacks for unknown reasons.
Originally, the towns inhabitants had a handle on the Grimm that had strayed too close to their home. It was simple really. A few cannons here, some traps and rifles there. They even had several hunters to aid them when any Grimm came near.
But recently, the Grimm presence had shot up, greatly startling the people of this village.
Some additional hunters had come in upon request and profoundly pushed the Grimm back, seemingly annihilating them all.
However, less than a week later, more Grimm had sprouted, only this time they were far greater in number and in size and strength.
This greatly troubled the people of this town and in turn they sent out yet another call for support.
Ozpin himself had caught wind of this and after studying the pattern of attacks decidedly sent out the Avengers to permanently take care of this problem.
The old, reincarnated headmaster recognized this type of behavioral pattern before and realized that there was a nest of Grimm hidden somewhere within the larger area where the village resided in.
So, he sent the Avengers out on this mission which proved to be a greater challenge than anticipated.
The Grimm were relentless in their attack on the village, sending large waves of them to attack.
This of course greatly concerned the Avengers but did nothing in breaking their resolve.
For three days straight, they had combatted against the waves of Grimm, expunging them effectively on every attack while also scouting around the forest in searching for the nest.
After a long search, it was Quicksilver who inadvertently stumbled upon the nest.
He was running through the surrounding forest at high speeds when he was momentarily distracted by a Beowulf attempting to bite his head off.
Pietro easily slid beneath the Grimm and punched the beast in the gut. Due to momentum and speed, the blow effectively sent the Wolf flying upward before landing hard on its head, killing it.
During the slide however, Pietro fell through some kind of hole and got up to face a gigantic, ancient pair of King Taijitu.
Jaw dropping in slight horror at the size of the Grimm and disbelief at the luck, Pietro immediately ran away to call in the rest of the Avengers onto his location.
No sooner than that, the Taijitu called in their Grimm to defend the nest while the others arrived shortly thereafter.
The battle between the opposing forces were intense but it was going in the Avengers favor after a prolonged battle.
the King Taijitu proved to be more maneuverable then their size gives them credit for.
Hawkeye noted that these were clearly larger and perhaps ancient Grimm to an extent judging by their more heightened intelligence over the rest of its kind.
This was proven correct as the Taijitu pair moved in perfect tandem and synchronization with each other, causing most to constantly avoid their attacks.
However, the Grimm remained outnumbered and outclassed as proven by Scarlet Witch and Hawkeye who used their skills to momentarily blind both snakes.
This gave them their needed chance.
Sam went in for a straight down nose dive while Steve threw his Shield which was grabbed by a speeding Pietro.
The two Avengers perfectly sliced the heads off of the Grimm, effectively ending the nest.
Wanda had used her powers to cave in the cavern in the ground, making sure that no ancient or alpha Grimm would get any ideas on taking up this former residence of a Grimm nest.
This eventually lead them to where they were now, fighting off the remnants of the Grimm that inhabited the destroyed nest.
Bit by bit, the Grimm were whittled down with the skills and teamwork by the Avengers until none remained.
Upon the death of the last Grimm by the hands of Amber, the people of the town rejoiced at their saviors.
A small banquet was held in their honor which left most of the Avengers abashed at such blatant adulation by those they had rescued.
To some, the thought of actually being paid to do their jobs greatly off put them in the moment as they did this out of obligation and a belief of doing the right thing.
So, Steve and the Avengers settled for just being paid with minor gifts.
After all, if they were truly to be paid in money, they had at long last decided on accepting Ozpins proposal of becoming faculty within Beacon Academy.
They were soon to go through some testing and trial periods to get a grasp on this job in the coming semester.
Once the little banquet and the mission was all said and done, the Avengers piled into their greatly modified Bullhead that Clint, Sam and Scott had been working tirelessly on and returned back to the city of Vale.
Upon returning, they were greeted by Oz and Glynda, awaiting their arrival.
"I trust the mission went off without a hitch?" Oz asked them all, but primarily Steve
"Some complications" Steve answered "But overall, it was standard"
"Glad to hear it" Ozpin said pleasantly, pleased to see his allies in good health "I believe this usually calls for a moment of relaxation"
"I second that notion" Sam said "Damn Griffon got a little too close for comfort one time"
"On your left?" Pietro remarked with a grin, nudging the para-rescue man
"Oh that's how it's going to be?" Sam jokingly challenged
"That is how it is going to be" Pietro shot back, grin still in place
"What's that?" Sam pointed to a spot on Pietro's shirt.
The silver haired speedster looked down only to get his nose flicked up.
"What?" Sam now held a grin "You didn't see that coming?"
Steve, Glynda and Wanda only shook their heads or rolled their eyes in annoyance and amusement at the behavior of these fully grown adults.
Then again, it's better than being uptight all the time so there's that.
Everyone separated into their own tasks.
Clint, Sam and Scott continued on improving their Bullhead, slowly but surely re-shaping their personalized ship into that of a model of a Quinjet.
Wanda and Amber had gone off on their own to spend some time together while Pietro left to the school forge
Steve knew that Glynda had preparations to be made for the next semester so he decided on taking care of something he h ad been meaning to do for some time now.
Go get more art supplies.
So Steve departed from Beacon and went into the city of Vale.
There was a store he had discovered next to a popular dust shop that he had frequented when he was purchasing new brushes, paints and canvas's.
The store owner had gotten to know Steve and had seen his exploits so he had given Steve discounts and freebies.
Which Steve of course complimented by leaving large "tips" to compensate for the man's kindness.
He had entered the store, sending a wave to the owner who waved back before returning to the customers he was helping.
Some of the patrons did double takes upon recognizing who it was that had entered the store and couldn't hide their stares directed towards him.
He should have worn a cap.
Steve began sifting through various paints and stencils, taking note of every one that he had examined.
He was so absorbed in picking out the proper color variants he failed to notice someone approaching him.
"Excuse me good sir, could you perhaps assist me?" Said a smooth male voice
Steve quirked a brow and turned to face the man who came up to him and blinked.
Striking purple eyes if ever there were a pair.
"Pardon?"
"Apologies" The man said humbly "I am new to this store and I am seeking paints that I could use as it is a recent hobby I have taken up"
"Oh" Steve was put off by such an odd explanation "Well, Mr. Adwin should be able to help"
The man only gestured behind him to see said man speaking with several individuals at once.
"I was hoping you could perhaps help me" the man said
"Well" Steve rubbed the back of his head, somewhat embarrassedly "I guess I can. What do you need help with?"
"Hmmm"
The man went silent, folding his arms up with one of his hands going up to cup his chin in thought.
"If I may indulge you" The man spoke very precisely and articulately "I have greatly enjoyed many arts forms of many cultures. Art is the reflection of society itself. I myself find living art to be the most appealing"
"Living art?"
"I'm sorry" He said sheepishly "I think I said to much. What I mean is, I'm looking for the proper forms of paint that can give my artwork the distinction of feeling…alive, so to speak"
"Oh' Steve then nodded "I know exactly what you're looking for…"
It was then that the man realized that he had not even introduced himself
"Apologies once more, my name is Dev"
"Steve Rogers"
Dev's eyes narrowed in recognition at the name, face scrunching up in thought for several moments.
"Ah" Dev nodded his head "Now I know why that name sounds so familiar. It is a true honor to meet the man who leads the Avengers"
Steve only sighed, shaking his head "At least you're not hounding me"
Dev now chuckled
"I offer you my sympathies" Dev said graciously "I did not mean to put you on the spot any more than I already have"
"No no, it's alright" Steve said modestly "At the very least you're upfront about it. God I feel like Stark right now"
"Pardon?"
"I'm just referring to a friend" Steve waved off "Anyway, paint that gives a certain liveliness to your work, right?"
"Correct" Dev nodded
"Use this set right here" Steve held up a full case of various paints "Each variation to the color could add a certain flare to whatever it is you choose to paint. You just need the right shading and lighting and viola, living art"
Dev nodded, truly impressed by Steve, noticing that these were not run of the mills paints either.
"I never would have suspected that Steve Rogers would be an expert in the arts" Dev commented "You must be an artist yourself"
"Well, if you will indulge me" Steve wittily said "Before I was an Avenger, before I was a soldier or huntsmen, I originally pursued a career in the arts myself. Always fancied myself a drawer rather than a fighter"
Dev gave Steve an amused smirk which Steve himself reciprocated before his expression turned intense.
"But…then conflict arose and my home had sent out many men and women to oppose the growing threat of subjugation and oppression" Steve said in complete seriousness, surprising Dev with his intensity
"I had to fight" Steve said solemnly "Not for glory, or honor, or even the fact that it was the right thing to do. I had to because other people were laying their lives down on the line for the sake of others"
Dev's surprise by Steve's purpose was quite visible.
Though it wasn't loud or impassioned, there was a power to his statement that resonated with Dev, greatly elevating the status of the man before him.
"Yes" he murmured to himself, raising his voice a moment later "Yes, this will do quite nicely then"
Dev took the set out of Steve's hand and offered his own.
"A great thanks from this passerby" Dev said friendly and all
Steve nodded back with a small smile and clapped his hand over Dev's, a firm shake between the two.
"A pleasure helping you out"
"A pleasure meeting you"
The two parted ways, Steve none the wiser of a more ecstatic smirk developing upon Dev's face.
'This shall be interesting indeed' Dev thought to himself, purchasing his items before swiftly departing from the store.
Scene Cut
Amber stood alone in one of the training rooms of the Academy, trying her hardest to muster up her power.
Not that difficult really now that she had Wanda and the rest of the Avengers helping her, no, the purpose was to fine tune and refine her summoning of her power.
She was just starting to truly grasp her capabilities and has taken everything she has learned to heart.
Too little power to call upon is fool hardy and ridiculous given the world they live in.
Too much can be overwhelming, volatile and dangerous that can lead to all sorts of untold collateral damage being the injury of others.
But when you generate the proper amount, as Clint so aptly put it, you could make real magic happen.
Amber then snorted at the thought and her magic promptly dissipated.
The young Fall Maiden stared intently at her hands, her mind brainstorming ideas on how exactly can she further her powers.
She recalled Clint and the Maximoffs speaking on their battle with Ultron back on Sokovia. And by speaking, Amber actually saw the madness through the eyes of Wanda, Pietro and Clint.
Wanda had been working hard on expanding her own powers and after multiple failed attempts and blistering headaches to herself and those involved, Wanda had branched out. Her telepathic capabilities now allow her to not only read the mind of others but perform mental links involving memory sharing.
Granted, they had all suffered strenuous mental aches afterwards and spent the rest of the day resting. Regardless however, this was a breakthrough for Wanda and indirectly Amber.
She finally got a 'taste' of the insanity that the Avengers had experienced.
It gave her a great deal of perspective.
And a great fire under her ass to further perfect and control her powers.
"Alright, that is one fierce expression you got on there Amber"
The Maiden blinked and turned around to see Clint casually sipping on a shake, offering her one.
"Your favorite" He said with a held back burp
"Thanks Clint" Amber said, taking a deep gulp "Ah, chocolate extreme vengeance. Oum bless the one who created this"
"Yeah, he's a real genius" Clint quipped "What's on your mind Amber? Didn't know you were in a training mood"
"Just…needed to find a way to focus up my thoughts" Amber blankly said
"Alright, what's up?' Clint said expectantly "I know when something is bothering you kids and you've got that face on you"
Amber stared at Clint for a moment before snorting "You kids?"
Clint groaned, rubbing the temple of his nose.
"Please…don't go down Pietro's road, he's a handful as it is"
Amber's smiled died down into one of a more melancholy one.
"I just…I guess I don't know what I really want" Amber admitted "Here I am being trained by heroes from an entirely different reality. Honestly, the fact that I'm one of the fabled maidens from tales old is still the hardest thing to grasp"
"You'll figure it out" Clint said assuredly "Just like I did. Just like Scott, and Pietro, and Wanda and the rest. Only this time, you have help. Now come on, I noticed in that last town, your aim still remains god awful"
"I happen to have beaten all of the Grimm we faced" Amber said, offended and grumpy
"Yeah, with overwhelming force" Clint remarked "Not precision"
"I happen to like overwhelming force" Amber said with a pout
"Really? Then what was that focus display you tried earlier?"
Amber opened her mouth ready to counter only to close her mouth then come back again with finger raised with vindication and finally slumped back in defeat. She deadpanned at the archer who only grinned at her with a pat on the shoulder.
"Come on, let this marksmen show you how it's really done"
"You just want to show off"
"After all those exercises we've done, yes I want to show off. Show you a thing or two about real skill"
"I'm skilled!"
"At throwing everything you have at the wall and praying it sticks"
"BLEH"
Amber stuck her tongue out and pulled on her bottom left eyelid in a mocking posture. Clint only stared at her in amusement.
"Does the word Anime mean anything to you?"
Scene Cut several days later
Devvrat was observing his men utilizing their newest weapons in the training range the Cleansers had set up for his unit specifically.
He would not have incompetence under his command, no sir.
Devvrat stared down at his men, unmoving and silent with his hands clasped behind his back.
He closed his eyes then and let out a sigh.
"What is that you want now Mister Watts?"
Watts didn't even bother with the fact that Devvrat already knew that it was he who approached him. He just took in stride by this point.
"We have finally found a good testing ground for our most recent weapons" Watts said with a smug air
"Oh?" Devvrat cracked one eye open, looking to Watts "And tell me Mister Watts, what is our target?"
Watts stated one name and Devvrat arched a brow
"Curious" Devvrat said, merely nodding his head
Watts turned to leave when Devvrat spoke up
"Tell me Mr. Watts…"
The well mustached man turned around to face Devvrat who remained impassive.
"Have you ever stopped to wonder how it was the cleansers came to be?" Devvrat asked, eyes on the practice range below "And be honest Mr. Watts, I do not tolerate liars or…bull shitters so to speak. So please, tell me, how do you think the Cleansers came to be?"
Watts furrowed his brow at the sudden inquiry but decided on trying out his hand on the matter.
"It would be a logical response to the more radicalized White Fang" Watts surmised "The Cleansers formed to combat the more terrorist based White Fang. The world was already filled with enough individuals who despise Faunus. They just needed a more 'just' reason and rallying point to truly begin their campaign against the Faunus"
"A sound and reasonable explanation" Devvrat praised
"But that is not the official story, isn't it?" Watts 'accused' "You would not ask me such a question without a point to it"
"An astute observation, Mister Watts" Devvrat commended
"So tell me then" Watts crossed his arms expectantly "How is it that the Cleansers came to be?"
Devvrat didn't reply at first, instead opting to straighten out his sleeve that had been bothering him for a moment.
"Have you ever met the leader of the cleansers?" Devvrat asked
Watts eyed the man.
"I am aware of the lieutenants" Watts stated "But the leader has always been a mystery"
"Rightfully so" Devvrat nodded "Our leader prefers to work with in the shadows for the time being. Something about learning from past mistakes"
"A public figure then?" Watts said in intrigue
"Possibly" Devvrat shrugged "Not much is known about his past life. He has become increasingly active in a more hands on approach to the conduction of the Cleansers. Leader is a very busy man. I wouldn't be surprised if he were soon to make his appearance known to your queen"
Now this truly caught Watts' attention.
"Oh? And how exactly does he plan on doing so?"
"Simple" Devvrat said casually "He will stroll into her gaudy tower and make himself known to her"
Watts couldn't help but close his eyes, brow momentarily twitching in irritation. He schooled himself and calmed down, remembering just who it was that he was speaking to.
"You sound extremely confident in him" Watts stated
"I would not have followed him had he not had the capacity to perform the feats that he has achieved" Devvrat said
"And what exactly has he achieved?" Watts challengingly inquired
There was a glint in Devvrat's eyes as he stared down Watts.
"It was he who drove Doctor Merlot into turning against Ozpin" Devvrat stated "And it was he who orchestrated the demise of Mount Glenn"
Watts could only stare in open shock while Devvrat walked away.
Salem must be informed of this at once.
Scene Cut
"What am I looking at here, Rodal?" The Elder, brunette haired individual asked the younger man before him
Rodal is an average sized individual, with jet black hair with some patches of silver, sharp blue eyes, wolf ears and a genetic mutation wherein his nose is black and he has more wolfish features such as his eyes being more slit-like and sharper canines.
"That's exactly it Ghira, I honestly have no idea what this is" Rodal answered
Ghira Belladonna stared intently at the mish mash of what appeared to be some kinds of technology. Though as to what kind of technology was beyond the former leader of the White Fang.
"And you're telling me your kid found it nearby the water?" Ghira inquired
"Not exactly sure how sir" Rodal said, briefly recalling his son's little tale "All he said was there was some kind of bright light near the sand. He thought it was the sun reflecting off the water but when he got closer, he thought he smelled something burning"
"I see" Ghira picked up a purple glowing sphere, intrigued by its unusual glow
"These do look like weapons however" Rodal commented, hefting one up that had a barrel on one end with a trigger on the back handle
"How do you figure?" Ghira asked
Rodal merely grasped both handles and held it up, posing with it like he would if he were preparing to fire it.
"Hmmm" Ghira mused "I see your point there"
"So what should we do with this stuff then, sir?" Rodal asked
Ghira momentarily contemplated on his actions before deciding on confiscating the weapons and keeping them in a chest under his house. Better to keep them under his feet then in the hands of any unsuspecting civilian of Menagerie.
Who knows what they're capable of.
Ghira hefted up so of the tech that Rodal had brought before him with the young Faunus doing the same in turn.
"How is your training coming along, Rodal?" Ghira asked, making small talk with the Huntsmen in training
"Well enough sir" Rodal said respectfully "I'll be headed back to Haven soon enough"
"Good, good" Ghira nodded "I take it you are doing well with your team then?"
"Very well" Rodal said with a grin, his wolf tail wagging behind him happily "Sona can be a bit abrasive, but she's really good as leader. She even put me in second command, can you believe that? Ecru is wild like always. He usually pins on him being a Tasmanian Faunus, but I know he's just making that up to cover for his clumsiness. Pouks is ever the silent one…but when he starts talking it's like dude do you ever shut up, HA. He just says what people are thinking but don't wanna here"
Ghira only smiled at the young man who was animatedly talking about his friends and his experiences over at Haven.
"And then me and this new guy Sun got into some trouble after spilling all the juice meant for this kindergarten that was supposed to come visit the academy…"
Ghira tuned him out, occasionally picking up on his words, catching site of his home in the distance.
Thanks to his eyes, he was able to see his wife delicately watering her own garden with a peaceful expression on her face.
Instinctively, Ghira looked to the side and was expecting a small, happy figure running out from the house to Kali.
Ghira then shook his head and sighed.
'I hope you're alright Blake' Ghira thought to himself somberly
Rodal hearing picks up on Ghira's sigh and looks to see a more downcast expression on his face. Quirking a brow, Rodal looked back forth between Ghira and the Belladonna home. Spotting Kali enter the home, Rodal momentarily thought on why Ghira would be upset when his eyes blinked in realization.
"Thinking about your daughter sir?" Rodal guessed
Ghira's face blinked, returning to normal.
"Pardon?"
"Are you thinking about Blake, Ghira?" Rodal asked
The elder Faunus stared at Rodal before exhaling tiredly, nodding several seconds later.
"You seem to know me better than most, Rodal" Ghira remarked
"Well I did grow up around you" Rodal said with a grin "You knew my dad growing up"
"Aye, and he raised a good, chatty son" Ghira joked, ruffling Rodal's hair and wolf ears
"Eh, don't messy up the do" Rodal whined
"You call that messy mop of hair style?" Ghira shot back with a laugh making Rodal pout
Ghira then returned to his more melancholy demeanor from a few seconds prior.
"Yes, Rodal, I am thinking about Blake" Ghira stated
"Wondering where she is?"
"Wondering if she is alright" Ghira said exasperatedly "So long as I know that she is alive, well and healthy with nothing dragging her down. That's all a parent can really ask for sometimes"
"I'm sure she's fine" Rodal assured with a slightly patronizing smile "Tough cat like Blake, daughter of the legendary Ghira Belladonna, what can possibly take her down?"
Ghira gave Rodal a humored, withering gaze, slightly tripping him.
Rodal stumbled slightly but retained his balance giving Ghira a deadpanned glare.
What both failed to notice was one of the guns had gotten a bit loose from Rodal's pile on his arms, thus falling to the ground.
The gun bounced off the ground and fired a purple projectile at a tree…which promptly and utterly destroyed the base, causing the rest of the tree to fall down.
Rodal and Ghira's eyes were the size of dinner plates, seeing the power behind what they had found.
"Get those to my place immediately" Ghira quickened his pace
"Yes sir" Rodal said, following after Ghira
Ghira and Rodal made sure that the weapons were quickly put away and locked in place.
They agreed that it was best that the two of them were the only ones who knew of just what it was they had brought back and what the tech was capable of.
For the time being, Ghira would allow them to simply sit there and think on just what to do with them.
The tech must hold some value as he had never seen such destructive capability before.
It made the elder Faunus contemplate on perhaps calling over a more enlightened mind to analyze just what had washed up on the shores of his home.
He was unaware of how quickly trouble would find him in his home.
And there's another cliffhanger for ya people.
Originally this chapter was supposed to be twice the length but I had an idea that came to me after an extensive conversation with Tsunashi777.
He and I simply conversed with one another but it helped inspire me to add this dynamic element into the story that I CANNOT BELIEVE I LEFT OUT.
I'm serious people, I felt so stupid that I completely forgot about this element but now I have figured out a way to inject this into the story by adding more and taking away less than my original plans.
I promise you guys, you're gonna love what I have planned
Rate Read and Review and as Always Have Nice Day