[Vale]
{Aaron/Moon's perspective}
"And you're sure you want me to melt this down?" Terra asked.
I gave him a silent nod.
He sighed and shook his head "Look I can't exactly bring myself to melt down your weapons, what did you say their name was again?"
"Judas Priest." I answered.
He gave a nod and set it down "Well, Judas Priest certainly is a unique weapon. I'll keep it if you don't want it. But I am willing to make you those gauntlets you want. Just give me a name."
"Omega & Okada," I told him.
He gave another nod. "And some throwing knives too?"
"Yeah."
{Thunder Rolls- Garth Brooks}
He grabbed my old weapons and told me "be back in a few hours. It'll take some time to get the basic mold going. Oh and the payment."
I put down the Lien that I saved from when Torchwick killed himself. Shut up I didn't kill him, he killed himself. And proceeded to walk out the door.
Terra called out to me and asked. "So what happened with that Vermilion fellow? I heard he was injured but no one has seen him lately."
I just answered "Kidnapped to Atlas by Jacuque Schnee."
I then walked out. It just so happened to be raining today of all days. Neo has been dodging all of my calls and texts to the point she blocked me. Justin hasn't answered his goddamn scroll. And Ruby is probably stalking me, if not her then Yang. I just needed some fresh air, honestly the Xiao Long household feels a bit stuffy at times. With Ruby still trying to get my attention and Yang… I barely have time to breathe.
I don't know what I'm going to do. I don't want to head down to Junior's bar, mostly because it isn't my drinking day. But at the same time there's not much else to do. And so I opened an umbrella that Taiyang gave me and started walking.
I don't exactly have a goal in mind. I just want to clear my head. And as I walked I looked up to see that Amity was starting to float its way back to Atlas. At least Penny wasn't horribly dismembered.
I looked back ahead to walk down the road. Passing that restaurant Justin and I hung out from time to time. The dust shop that I doubt I will buy anything from anytime soon. And soon came to the park. No one was here, good. I need time to myself anyway.
I found a gazebo that had seating. So I sat my butt down and set down the umbrella. I pulled my scroll out to text Justin again. I know he got his arm chopped off and now has to live with a rich guy, but dodging my text when I need him? That's low even for him.
I groaned out loud as I put my scroll away and rested my hands on my head. Before I could figure out what to do next I heard a stranger's voice behind me ask "Hello there, you wouldn't happen to be Vermilion's friend would you?"
I turned to see a guy who was trying way too hard to be edgy. I mean, granted Justin likes trench coats, but this guy is wearing all black with a hood on and a face mask.
So let's see. Guy in the trench coat probably has some sort of hidden weapon on him. I'll humor him. "Depends who's asking."
He chuckled, "I was just looking to get a message to him."
"He ain't even picking up his scroll. I doubt you'll be able to get any sort of message to him." I retorted as I crossed my arms.
"Oh… not that kind of message."
I stood up slowly as I unwrapped my arms.
And I see he pulled out a simple knife. And so I made a quick jab at his side which made him recoil.
After a moment he recovered and tried to slash at me. So I blocked that attack, grabbed his arm, disarmed him and pushed him away.
With his knife in hand I threw it away into the rain as he tried to punch me. I dodged and punched him straight across the face with all of my might. And it knocked him out cold.
I grabbed his shirt and proceeded to look through all of his pockets.
…
Jesus, how many pockets does this guy need? This is absurd even by anime standards.
…
Finally! Got something. A note of some sort… Let's see…
It reads:
It appears as though there is at least one last Vermilion, as confirmed by the good doctor. This cannot be allowed. Hunt him and those he is close to at all costs. We cannot let the house of Vermilion continue on. For what they did is unforgivable.
-K
Hm… So someone wants to kill me and my friends. And Justin is a confirmed Vermilion. Which brings up several questions but for now, I should inform him that he's being hunted.
…
...If he EVER RESPONDS!
…
Eh fuck it. He'll check it when he checks it. Hopefully it won't be too late.
Looking at the time it seems as though I should go back to the blacksmith and claim my new weapons.
So I picked my umbrella up and opened it as I stood out in the rain. I looked down at the knife that he had. And figured it'd be better in my hands than his. Not really my style but it'll probably come in handy.
And I started walking again. And left him to come back to his senses. Hopefully he doesn't try anything again. Though I doubt he'll stop. Oh well, one more faceless enemy to hold back.
As I entered the area where Terra was, I couldn't help but notice Yang walking towards me in a yellow and black rain jacket and black pants. Something I never thought she would go for but her volume 4 design did make that improvement.
"Hey Moon." Yang greeted me.
"What's up Yang?" I asked.
"We're worried about you. You've been gone for a pretty long time for something that should have only taken a couple hours." She told me.
I'm sure Ruby especially. "Yang, I'm fine, I just need to clear my head." I told her as I was about to open the door when Yang held it closed.
I gave her a glare as she said "I know you feel like you betrayed Neo, but honestly? I think it's for the better."
I kept my gaze at her with less of a glare.
"Besides, it was either you or Roman, it's probably for the better that bastard's dead-"
"I DIDN'T KILL HIM! WHY DOESN'T ANYONE SEE THAT?!" I yelled.
Yang took a step back after my outburst.
I took a deep breath. "Sorry, just a bit touchy on that subject still."
Yang stayed silent as she let me go into the shop, trailing behind me a moment later.
"Ah good to see you. Ya done brooding?" Terra joked.
I gave him a glare.
"Ooookaaay, not in a joking mood, got it. Anyway, Omega & Okada are ready for you. I put them on the counter."
I looked at them, they were definitely the way I wanted. Folding knuckle, extending back end for travel. Perfect.
"And here's a belt of throwing knives. Each one is made with a different form of dust. Just in case you want to do some extra damage." He informed me.
"And the gauntlets?" I asked.
"Can each hold one dust vial at a time. So try to combine elements you see fit."
I nodded, "Thanks man."
"Any time." Terra said proudly as he crossed his arms.
I put on Omega and Okada. They fit comfortably on my wrist. As if it molded into them.
"Thank you Terra." I said to the blacksmith.
"Anytime man. And when you hear from Achilles, tell him his old friend wants to chat." Terra remarked.
"I'll keep that in mind." I said as I walked out.
I then walked away with Yang trailing behind.
"So… you are copying me now?" Yang asked.
"As if I would be so bold. No, these are of a design I've wanted for a while. Judas Priest were more or less just a tool for me to use temporarily."
Yang nodded understandingly. "I suppose I get it."
"Good now I don't want to talk any more until we get back. Got it?" I barked.
Yang nodded in silence.
So we walked back to the boat that took us to Patch and after that straight to Tai's house.
"Oh hey!" Tai greeted "How was Vale?"
"Exactly the way it was left." I replied.
Tai gave a slight nod "So… you have new weapons?"
"Yeah, I'll show you later." I said as I handed him the now soaked umbrella.
"I see. Well if you need to talk you know where to find me." Tai said as I slammed the door behind me. I still need fresh air. Besides, I can't exactly find a gym right now. And I'm way too frustrated at everything to come to any logical decision.
…
I wish Justin was still here. But Mr. Clip-on tie thinks he can breed the Vermilions back to life with Weiss. And I'm sure he's still weighing on the options about getting a prosthetic.
Not to forget that Keoth is blind. And no doubt is still adjusting to his new way of life. Or getting optics like Maria. Either way I'm sure it won't be easy for him.
I sighed and buried my hands in my face. My friends are hurt and I can't be there for them. Something I never thought I'd ever feel.
"Hey Moon." Said a familiar small voice to my left.
"Ruby, please leave me alone." I told her.
"Mm… nope." She retorted as she sat in the seat next to me.
"Ruby, I am in no mood to talk right now." I warned her.
"Then let me listen. You look like you have a lot on your mind." She said to me as I got my head out of my hands. "You can't bottle your thoughts like that."
"Pot calls the kettle black much?" I asked.
"Huh?"
"It's an expression Ruby."
"Oh… like those metamorphosis things that Achilles uses." Ruby noted as she put a finger to her chin.
I sighed "Nevermind." She is way too adorable for her own good.
"... so… If you need to rant then go ahead. I'll listen."
I took a deep breath. I don't normally tell people my emotions, but if I trust them enough then I will. How do I start? "... I suppose I'm just… angry at myself, Adam, Cinder."
Ruby stayed silent so I guess she wants me to let it all out.
"Myself for killing Roman instead of making sure he survived like I promised Neo. And I've tried to explain to her that I didn't kill him. But she probably doesn't believe me. And I don't exactly blame her…"
Ruby adjusted the way she sat as she asked "Have you tried to communicate with her lately?"
I took another deep breath before continuing "No. I haven't. She blocked me a while ago. So I doubt she wants to see my face."
Ruby looked away somberly "I see, well I guess she just needs time… Who knows what she could be thinking."
"I suppose you're right."
"So, why are you mad at Adam?" She then asked to change the subject.
"He took Achilles' arm. I want revenge on that motherfucker."
"That's another for the swear jar." Ruby commented.
She immediately took it back when I glared at her.
"Right, not the time for jokes. Sorry."
I sighed "It's fine. Anyways, Cinder is basically the same story. Since she blinded my other friend Keoth."
Ruby waited until she knew I was done before saying "Moon, I know I can't stop you, but please don't do anything reckless."
"Funny coming from you."
Ruby politely laughed. "I know I'm not the most graceful, or anything really. But I know when things are bad you can't just blame it on someone. And you can't run head first into danger either. It will never end well for anyone. My mom especially."
I looked back out into the raining sky for a moment "... Thanks Ruby. I'll be in soon. Just gotta get my head cleared."
Ruby nodded "Sure thing!"
And with a few steps, she was at the door. And after hearing it click I looked back out onto the yard. Not really thinking of anything. Just enjoying the weather.
[Meanwhile]
{Neo's perspective}
How could he do that to my dum dum? To Roman! I trusted him, he gave me his word he wouldn't harm him.
So to see him fire at Roman like that in cold blood was… devastating to put it mildly.
I had been sitting in this abandoned building holding onto the only thing that remains of him now, his hat. I don't even know how long it's been since I moved from this spot. But honestly I don't care.
At least the constant texts he kept sending have stopped. Blocking him was the best thing I could do.
But right now, I feel nothing…The tears have stopped. However they have been replaced by unyielding rage. And a desire to hurt him.
… No… kill him.
He killed Roman, so I should kill him to make him pay for his betrayal of my trust, especially after all I've done for him.
Kill for kill. Blood for blood, he will die by my hand.
Retribution will taste so sweet.
When his blood drips down my weapon, and his corpse is at my feet.
[Morning in Patch]
{Ruby's perspective}
There was a knock on the door. I guess he's here. "I'll get it!" I yelled to everyone else.
Opening it up, it was exactly who I expected. The tall blonde swordsman, Vomit Boy. also known as Jaune.
I quietly shut the door behind me "Thank you for meeting with me, I know the ferry rides to here are expensive."
Jaune nodded quickly "Yeah yeah, so what did you need?"
Well, now or never. "My uncle gave me some advice and told me about Haven, I'm thinking we should head there."
Jaune gave a defeated sigh. "Ruby… It's been a month and a half since Beacon. I don't know if my team is ready for that kind of journey."
"They will be though." Said a voice behind me, which I will admit made me jump.
"Moon! Don't sneak up on me like that! You know I startle easily!" I yelled.
Moon shrugged it off. "Sorry, anyway if we give it at least another monthf, we'll be ready to leave."
I couldn't help but look back inside. "Yang won't really like the idea of leaving dad alone."
"I'll talk with him. Don't worry." Moon assured.
"Then it's settled." Jaune said. "I'll pitch this to the rest of the team."
Jaune then left. With me and Moon there on the porch.
"Alright, I'll hold up my end of the bargain." Moon said as he stepped back inside. "You coming?"
"In a bit… There's something I gotta do first."
He nodded "Tell her I said hi then."
He then shut the door.
As he did, I started hiking to mom's grave. The path there was the same as always, though with fall coming up soon, it seems some of the leaves have started to turn different colors. The cool breeze ripped through my clothing as I made it to mom's grave.
I cupped my fist into my opposite hand as I spoke to her. "Hey mom, I was just here to say hello… and to ask for some advice."
Silence, I know she may not hear me but I need to vent to someone. "There's… a guy I know. He's sweet and caring for me. And he thinks I should go on this journey. I have no idea what's in store, but I think I may be able to help Remnant like you and dad did. By the way, he says hi."
I looked back out into the distance. I wonder if Achilles is doing better in Atlas. He was kind of forced there. And while he was on his way out he seemed uncomfortable with the idea. I wish dad had offered to keep him here with his friend Moon.
I sighed "I guess I know what I must do." I then turned to leave. And then I felt like someone was watching me. I turned back to see a woman in a white cloak out of the corner of my eye.
As soon as I got a better look she vanished. "Mom?"
Before I knew what happened, the world turned back.
{Aaron/Moon's perspective}
Ruby sure is taking a while. I guess talking to her mom's grave takes longer than I expected.
"Have you seen where Ruby is?" Tai asked me.
"She went out to Summer's grave, though it is taking a while."
Tai nodded as he cleaned the dishes. "She usually has long talks there. And since it's nearby I doubt anything happened."
That's when I got a message on my phone. From a random number nonetheless. In the photo it showed Ruby tied up in a dark room.
A message then popped up that said:
We won't do anything to her… yet.
Tai walked over to me, I guess my face was a dead giveaway. Yang showed up to my right.
Come alone to the address attached. We just want a chat. You have 24 hours.
Tai put his hand on my shoulder. "You aren't going alone."
"Yeah, No way this creep will lay any hands on my sister." Yang said with her eyes turning red.
I shot both of them down. "We gotta play smart you two. I know you guys wanna go in guns blazing and fists swinging, but they could possibly harm Ruby more." I told them.
"But-" Tai protested before I shot him down.
"I've got a plan, and you two need to stick to it. OK?"
Tai and Yang nodded begrudgingly.
"What's the plan?" Yang then asked.
"Grab your weapons, I'll tell you on the way." I told them. "I'll also give Jaune a text while we're at it."
Reviewer Session:
Monster King: Thanks man, glad you enjoy it! Tbh your regular commenting has motivated me to write better and make better quality content.
