Pariah


Chapter 10

Demise


Six grunting bodies struggled to free the cart whose tire sunk deep into deep mud on the side of the road. Their torsos were exposed to the heavy downpour of rain and the biting cold of the howling winds that assaulted their bare skin. The only piece of cloth that was afforded to them hung around their wastes. And even then their only protection against the harsh weather. It was filthy and torn and a rope acted as an improvised belt keeping the piece of cloth in its position. Their backs littered with scars where a lash had done its brutal work. If not for the shower Mistral's nature offered them, their bodies would no doubt glisten in sweat as they tried to free their cart. The heavy load of wood did not do the men who were of vastly different ages any favors as they strained against its weight. Their muscles bulged every time they tried to pull the overloaded cart free.

Three men on horseback who wore heavy raincoats observed their labors. The grim visage of the leader and overseer of the group grew impatient by the incompetence displayed by his employer's slaves. The scar that ran across his face, showed that he was no stranger to combat. The man slowly started to caress the whip on his side as he considered if these animals needed another bout of motivation. He spat to the side of the road. The Faunus were truly disgusting creatures. Masquerading as humans and their incessant insistence that they're no different than them made his blood seethe. Now he had to stand in the middle of nowhere while the heavens poured every last vestige of water down on them. He, like his two comrades, was a Huntsman from Haven Academy, Oum-dammit. While his employer paid very handsomely for them to watch his filth, he could not help find it insulting on some level.

Looking off in the direction of his employer's manor, located two days away from the Kingdom of Mistral, he wished he could be under its sheltering roof and warm halls. In the distance, he saw a group of men approaching on horseback. The most noticeable man out of the group was his employer. Viktor Winchester, owner of the Winchester Mansion and a man who took delight in the suffering of the animals he was made to watch. The other five made who rode alongside with him were also Huntsman, their pockets coffers saturated by the Lien given from Winchester. The man himself stood at an average height, with indigo eyes, and wore black armor with gold trims. An eagle with outstretched wings was displayed on his chest plate while a wine-red cloak sheltered him from nature's wrath. From what he has come to know it was the crest of the Winchester family. The man's hair abandoned him years ago, just like his morals.

"I want your animals in a line this instant!" He commanded.

And like trained dogs they followed his orders without a second of hesitation. Well-trained mutts they were indeed.

"Good dogs." He sneered at the slaves as he made his way to great the approaching retinue of Viktor Winchester.

When his employer came to a stop in front of them, Viktor dismounted his steed and made his way towards his slaves.

"Amida," he greeted the overseer. "I have grown bored inside the walls of my estate. Surely you can understand."

Amida nodded his head.

"My Lord Winchester," the overseer explained as he saw Viktors gaze linger on the cart. "This useless rabble was trying to free the cart from the mud."

Viktor did not react to his explanations as to why the cart loaded with firewood was not at his estate by now. He simply chose to look at his slaves who in turn did their best to try and avoid eye contact so that they may not invoke his ire on them, trembling on their naked feet.

The overseer knew what his employer was doing and now was not an ideal time.

"My Lord," He said. "The wood still needs to be delivered to the estate."

His employer simply raised his black armored hand to silence his words and continued to scrutinize his slaves before he came to a stop, looking the youngest member of the group over. The youth reached his eighteenth birthday days ago, his fox tail tucked between his legs. His employer pointed at the boy.

"I want him." He announced with a sadistic smile

The youth's eyes went wide with panic and fear but before he could do anything one of the men punched him in his stomach. Before his knees could reach the ground two more of Viktors retinue grabbed him under his armpits, dragging the boy towards their horses.

"My Lord Winchester!" one of the older slaves exclaimed in distress. "Take me instead! I beg you, don't take my boy from his mother!"

"Very well," Winchester said, to everyone's surprise. "Who am I to refuse a father's sacrifice for his son."

He ruffled the boy's hair in faux affection. The two mercenaries let go of the boy and took his father instead. It was at that moment the father saw the blade of Viktor Winchester sheath, stabbing the youth in his stomach, disemboweling the boy before everyone present.

The boy let out a pained shriek clutching his wound and desperately trying to keep his innards on the inside of his body.

The father let out a wail of horror as he watched his son collapse to his knees before him. The other slaves refused to look at the gruesome scene while none of the other men gave a reaction to what their employer had done. Their morals left them in the service of Viktor Winchester a long time ago.

"Eiko!" The father screamed through tears. "Please get up."

He pleaded with his son. But his pleas fell on deaf ears.

"Let this be a lesson to you," Viktor stated calmly. "You do not get to make demands."

"You bastard!" The father snarled at the Winchester.

Any further attempts of protest were quickly silenced as one of the mercenaries kicked him in his stomach, depriving his lungs of air.

"Careful, careful." Viktor chastised his men. "If you break him now what use is he to me, hmm?"

With that, his men picked up the gasping father from the muddied ground and made their way back towards the mansion.

"This mess," he said as he looked back to the cart with a disregarding glance. "See to it that these animals fix it."

"My Lord Winchester," Amida said nervously. "If six could not pull it out of the mud, how should four of them accomplish the same task?"

Winchester gave the other slaves one final look.

"Should the cart not be there before dawn they shall simply be the next source for my entertainment purposes." He declared with a grin.

The other four slaves turned deathly pale at the prospect.

"That should give them enough motivation," he chuckled cruelly. "Wouldn't you agree?"

As the group left the overseer spared one last look at the motionless body before he barked his orders for the rest of the slaves to continue to free the cart.


An hour later Viktor Winchester sat upon his thrown deep in thought. It was twenty years ago that he inherited the mansion from his father. To continue the family's legacy in protecting humanity against its enemies. Be they Grimm or Faunus. It disgusted him that those animals had the gall to declare themselves equal next to mankind. Thanks to his and many other nobles influence those animals still knew their rightful place, even if slavery was outlawed within the Kingdoms, Viktor would make sure that any illusions of human rights would apply to them, would stay just that, illusions.

Ever since those animals murdered his wife and son his hatred for them increased with every passing year. Viktor still remembered the day he found them in his chambers, their throats cut wide open. His wife's mouth still opened as if silent screams were escaping her even in death. He had no heir to pass on the family's legacy. His only hope now was his nephew, Cardin Winchester. All his properties would go to his brother's son should the cold embrace of death finally reunite him with his family. The only obstacle for his nephew to obtain his rightful place was his brother. Even now he was throwing stones into his plans. His little sibling was a disgrace to the Winchester name and openly chose to distance himself from their held traditions. Just the thought of him infuriated Viktor.

Now more than ever since the newest Headmaster of Haven was sworn into office, he felt a great mark of shame on his title of Huntsman. Those fools let an animal run their prestigious school. To his greater revulsion, even General James Ironwood endorsed Leonardo Lionheart position. Viktor questioned how a man of his standing could even look himself in the mirror.

And now the White Fang and this mysterious 'Wandering Wolf' were creating problems all and running amok across the Kingdom of Mistral. While the organization protest peacefully, the same could not be said for that mongrel attacking other people's rightful property. He would make sure that his slaves were to remain where they are. Bound by his chains.

At least the fool that was Ironwood saw the problem with keeping the Wandering Wolf alive. The bounty for his head was quite the hefty sum, even he would have to admit. He was tempted to go out himself and perhaps claim the reward for his own.

But then again, he was one of the most influential men in Mistral, he simply did not need the reward from some degenerate's head. If he wanted something it was only a matter of time. Viktor owned many pockets within the Kingdom itself which granted him a large amount of autonomy.

As a solution, he found the like-minded souls in the group called the Hand. Their stance against the Faunus favored his own goals. So it was that started to send financial aid towards the group while they, in turn, supplied him with new slaves for him to find entertainment in. Maybe the could be used to solve the problem with his brother? They did have a knack for violence after all.

Raising his chalice, the young slave girl behind his throne came forth and poured wine into it. She could not have been older than ten but he was not sure what her exact age was nor did he care The expensive alcoholic drink came from the northern hills of Vacuo and cost twenty times more than he paid for her and her parents. The Faunus girl did not say a word while she poured his drink, desperately trying to avoid her eyes falling onto him. Should even a drop of the wine spill from his chalice, Viktor would have sent her to his torture chambers, again. The last time she sent her there, his men removed part of her reptilian scales. He savored the sound of her pleading screams. A lesson the girl would not forget so easily. Of that he was sure.

With his armored hand, he lazily waved the beast away. She scuttled back where he would not have to see her. Instead, he looked down into the pit where the father stood in its center. The floor of the arena was covered in specks of dried blood and the walls were littered with scratches and large dents from heavy impacts. The man glared daggers at Viktor. His tears have stopped long ago as the only emotion the father displayed was unadulterated hatred for him. Viktor did not care in the slightest.

But he found this stare-down between the two of them dull. All those that came before the father pleaded for their lives. This one did not, however. A sigh escaped his lips. Viktor looked toward his foxtail. It was darker in color than that of his son. Probably because of the age difference. Well, at least he would have another souvenir after tonight's spectacle.

"If you beg for mercy," he addressed the father after a long period of silence. "I might let you live."

Instead of giving him an answer the fury in the man's eyes only increased in its intensity.

"Come on now, I'm an honest man," he tried to goad him. "Think about your poor wife."

He did not cry nor did he beg faced with his tormentor. The animal had the audacity to spit up in his direction. Of course, his saliva could never reach him in his throne but to let such an insult stand Viktor could not accept.

"The insolence," Viktor growled finding his patience running out. With his other gloved hand, he reached for a lever and pulled it. "Go join your son, you filthy animal."

The iron gates in front of the father started to open and revealed nothing but darkness at first. Then stomping hooves and grunts could be heard from within the impenetrable dark. And from the darkness, a black four red eyes that shone with unnatural malevolence regarded the father from a white bone-like mask. Two massive sets of curved tusks protruded from its lower jaw.

The Boarbatusk suddenly shrieked and broke out into a sprint, rushing the defenseless man that stood in the pit. His expression from hatred turned to all-out terror as the Grimm charged in his direction.


The terrified screams of Winchesters newest victim echoed throughout the night. And so was it that he laves gathered under the cloak of darkness, discussing what their next plan of action was. The slaves held their meeting in the largest building that stored the grain they had plow from neighboring fields. Many of them met in the dead of night and spoke in low whispered tones, afraid uninvited ears would hear their plan. They simply could not live as they did. Their freedoms are taken away from, some never even knew what it meant to be free. And the tyrant that caged them on his property surrounded by sentries and walls reveled in their suffering. And Viktor Winchester made sure he found joy in those he tortured. To him, they were nothing more than animals. Cattle he could use whenever his mind chose so.

They came to the unanimous decision that one of them should head towards the Kingdom of Mistral with all the riches they could gather and ask the Huntsman Academy for help. So many of their loved ones were lost to their tormentor and his mercenaries. Everything they procured and stole from their captors was put in one bag. It had to be enough for someone to consider their plight. It had to be.

There was one hole inside the heavy stone walls on the Winchesters property. But it was not big enough for a grown man or woman to fit through. So it was with a heavy heart that they had to choose a child from amongst the many families who took part in the plan. It was argued that none of the men of Viktor Winchester would notice the disappearance of a child. And the child that was chosen was none other than the youngest son from the Suzuki family, Haru was chosen. The child was not older than twelve and was burdened with the task of carrying their message and riches to Mistral in hopes someone, anyone, would answer them. His father and mother kissed their son between his ears that resembled that of an arctic hare. The boy's white hair was dirtied by the labors he had to complete during the long hours of the day. They knew the risks they put their son through and prayed to Oum that the creatures of Grimm would ignore him in his two-day journey to Mistral. Should Haru find someone willing to accept their request he is to return to his mother and father immediately before any suspicion could arise from their captors. Haru was not able to say his farewells to his siblings and they, in turn, could not know where his destination took him.

Through tears, Haru's parents wished him luck and offered words of encouragement for the long journey ahead. The fear that they might never see their son again was all too real but they have grown desperate and hoped that his night vision would guide him through the wilderness of Mistral under the cover of night.

As Haru slipped through the hole in the wall a third set of eyes watched as the young boy departed. He was a beggar among his kind and it shamed him greatly. Even when his fellow Faunus showed him kindness in sharing what little they had with him he still dreamed of those times he did not have to worry if he had something to eat the next day. Maybe Viktor Winchester would reward him if he told him about the young boy and the slave's plot in search of freedom? Maybe he did not need to worry about food anymore. Surely his Master would reward him handsomely for his loyalty? They were all delusional. No one would come to their aid and free them from their enslavement. The Kingdom of Mistral simply did not care what fate befell them. Given the opportunity that presented itself why not make life better for himself?


Their truck came to a halt in front of the abandoned industrial complex Watts told him to meet. The Only light source that illuminated the area came from their truck. Two of the White Fang medics unloaded the stretcher on which Avelinn still currently laid and made their way towards the two large rusted metallic doors, followed by Sienna, Nacht, and himself. After arriving at their destination, Sienna ordered the driver to return to the rest of their convoy from which they departed as to not raise further suspicion.

How they got into passed through the walls of the Kingdom without the authorities noticing his presence still questioned him. Or were they really that incompetent? He did not know nor did he like to dwell on the 'what if's'.

The portal was quickly opened by Watts himself who beckoned them inside, dressed in a surgeon's uniform, indicating that he was ready to perform the medical task required to ease the woman's suffering.

"In here," Watts ordered. "Quickly."

They did have to be told twice and entered through the doors before Watts quickly barricaded them from the inside.

During their two day journey, Avelinn's already pale complexion became paler, deathly so, always slipping in and out of conciseness. Wolfe's medical expertise was certainly lacking in that department and the other medics could do nothing more than to, stop the bleeding and replace the bandages that covered the gruesome wound. The lower leg was still held together by a few tendons. Wolfe feared that Avelinn might lose the lower part of her leg. Not only that, the reality of her dying of bloodloss was far greater than anything else, so it was by some miracle that the medics stopped the bleeding. Wolfe would have thank lady luck for her protecting hands.

Sienna refused to leave her friends for those two days they traveled, comforting Avelinn as best she could. Wolfe was aware that her nerves were strained to their limits.

As they followed Arthur into one of the adjacent rooms, an operating table was prepared with various surgical instruments neatly aligned on a tray next to it. Taking a quick sweep of the improvised surgical area, Wolfe was surprised at how sanitized everything was. But then again the Doctor was always very meticulous in his craft and took his work very seriously. How he even got his hands on all of the equipment and how he even managed to set everything up in time would be one of Remnant's greater mysteries.

"Put her onto the table," Watts said.

Wolfe helped the other White Fang member move Avelinn from the stretcher.

"Do you two have medical experience?" He asked the two Faunus present, to which they gave a short nod.

"Good," The doctor exclaimed. "You will stay here and assist me with the surgery."

Arthur Watts left no room for arguments. Not that he needed to as the two Faunus immediately sprung into action and were at his side ready to perform their duties.

"I ask those whose help I do not require to leave the room." He looked towards Sienna and him. Sienna made to protest but was silenced by the Wolfe's and that lay on her shoulders.

"He's right," Wolfe said sympathetically. "There nothing we can do for the next few hours and you need rest."

Sienna's ears drooped and bit her lower lip, but nodded in understanding nonetheless.

As they both turned and made for their departure outside of the room Watts addressed Wolfe one final time.

"I have placed your item outside in a chest, Wolfe." He said whilst his focus was on Avelinn as he administered the anesthesia. "I hope you will find it satisfactory. Oh, and do close the doors on your way out."

Wolfe nodded and after he followed the doctor's instructions, he made his way towards the focus of his attention. Opening the metallic chest, Wolfe carefully retrieved the item that lay within. Removing the piece of cloth that covered Watts's creation, the helmet he requested revealed itself to him. Unlike his previous headgear that was destroyed this one had a dark olive color to it, just like his coat. His hand brushed along the lower part with delicate care. Fearing it might find its untimely end just like the last. The helmet which was constructed after the Ferrum Pattern, per Wolfe's request, also did not have the red irises, instead, Wolfe opted to view the world naturally through his eye.

Spotting the various tools inside the industrial complex, Wolfe searched for one object in particular and soon enough found it covered by a rag. Retrieving the welder from its resting place where it lay disposed of by its previous owner, Wolfe grabbed a piece of metal and closed the left side of the helmet's visor. It was a little ritual to him at this point. It calmed his nerves and helped him navigate the fog that had formed in his mind. He knew that Avelinn was in good hands but Wolfe still could not help but worry.

Finishing his current task, Wolfe made his way back and noticed Sienna still standing in front of the doors, her ears strained trying to pick up any sound that might come out of the surgical room. Like him, he had heavy bags under her eyes due to the two sleepless nights they endured tending to the wounded woman. Rummaging in the back of Watts's supplies, Wolfe found an array of field-beds which the soldiers of the Kingdoms military used. Watts seemingly thought of everything. He was unsure if he should be impressed by the thoughtfulness of the Doctor. But that did not mean that he wasn't grateful for it.

In one of the darker parts of the large room, he started to set them up so that they might find some solace in their much-needed rest.

"I set up beds for us," Wolfe said as he approached Sienna, laying a comforting hand on her shoulder, her eyes lingered on the doors for a few more seconds. "Watts knows his craft and I trust he will perform to the best of his abilities. He has not let me astray before and I highly doubt he will do so now."

She excepted his words with a nod, her fatigue started to get the better of her. With one last glance at the double doors, Wolfe followed her and laid down on one of the field-beds. His eyes lazily observed the high ceiling of the complex as his eyelids grew heavier with each passing second. But before sleep could claim him Sienna's voice interrupted the silent room.

"If it weren't for you, I don't think she would have survived." She said with a heavy voice. "We might have even lost more if we had to fight the Hand on our own. Please know that I'm thankful you're helping us."

Before he could respond the sound of steady breathing reached his ears, sleep no doubt overcame Sienna. His eyes returned to the ceiling as his own exhaustion overtook and darkness embraced him.


When Wolfe awoke the next morning he couldn't honestly say that he felt rested. Preferably he would like to close his eyes for another few hours again but this was no time to sleep in. Rolling onto his back he stared at the ceiling for what felt like minutes, the silence was occasionally being broken by the soft breathing of Sienna who was still asleep.

Standing up he retrieved all of his weapons, armor and donned his new helmet, the metallic scent still clinging to it.

As he was about to take his leave the double doors to the improvised surgical room opened and an exhausted-looking Arthur Watts emerged from within. The squeaking sound of the hinges awakening Sienna from her slumber. Upon seeing both men she jolted from her field-bed and made her way to stand beside Wolfe.

"You're awake, good." The Doctor said in a tired monotone voice, removing the gloves from his hands. "I wanted to speak with you."

"How is she?" Wolfe asked.

"She'll live," Watts sighed, the thumb and index finger of his left hand caressing his mustache. "But she needs rest and I'm afraid that she will not be able to walk for some time. While I could save her leg, her kneecap is a different story entirely. After I removed all of the shrapnel I closed her back up."

While Sienna looked horrified at the prospect that Avelinn might not be able to walk again, Wolfe caught a glint in the doctor's eye he has come to know all too well.

"You have something in mind don't you?"

"Indeed I do," Watts said proudly. "I have the methods available to construct a knee replacement. But it will take time before I gathered all the necessary resources."

"Is there a way I could help?" Wolfe inquired.

"I'm afraid not," Watts said, looking both of them in the eye. "But when I have everything together she would need surgery again."

Sienna nodded, relieved that at least something could be done about it.

"This will prove to be quite expensive, Wolfe," Watts warned much to Sienna's dismay.

"Money for your resources will not be an obstacle you have to worry about, doctor," Wolfe responded. "The Black Market does pay handsomely for the SDC's unrefined dust after all."

"I know you're a man of your word," Watts said almost dismissively, his eyes wandering towards one of the beds. "If you'll excuse me, I am quite tired. You may go see her."

"And do take care of your new helmet, will you?" The doctor quickly added. " I don't need to remind you that Your recklessness ruined the last one those things don't simply from the sky."

With one last yawn, the doctor made his way towards the sleeping arrangements. Sienna did not need to be told twice and made her way into the other side of the portal, Wolfe following behind her.

Avelinn was in a hospital bed. Where and how Watts acquired something was left for whatever gods existed to call into question. Sienna made her way towards the woman, whose White Fang uniform was completely removed, replaced by a white hospital gown. Looking towards one of the corners, Wolfe saw the other two members who took part in the surgery laying on the ground, their exhaustion getting the better of them.

Sienna carefully removed the blanket to get a look at her knee. Upon seeing the ruined part of her leg her face contorted into worry. The injured Faunus did not possess an Aura, making the healing process longer. Sienna covered her leg back up, taking Avelinn's hand into hers.

"I'm not sure how to repay you." Sienna's hoarse voice interrupted their silence.

"There is no need to," Wolfe said, their eyes meeting. "Nor do I want you to."

She let out a short humorless laugh.

"I knew you were different from the rest of the humans." She said absentmindedly. "But I've never met one quite like you."

"Bad experiences with my own kind, I suppose," Wolfe answered, shoulder his glaive on his shoulder-pad, to which Sienna only hummed.

"I suppose that is the case."

They stood in silence for a few more minutes before Wolfe made his departure.

"I'm going to get some supplies from the markets." He informed her. "Should something unexpected happen to her, you know where to find Watts."

While he still had a week to prepare for his meeting with Roman Torchwick and Neopolitan, it was better to get his affairs in order as soon as possible.

Sienna nodded.

"I will give you a call should she wake up." She said. "And Wolfe?"

He turned to regard her.

"Thank you." A small forlorn smile graced her lips


For two days he traveled towards the general direction of the Kingdom of Mistral in nothing but his ragged clothes and the bag of their collected belongings. Heru crossed through many forests and climber mountains to arrive at his long-yearned-for destination. The weather only made his dangerous journey only more difficult as heavy rain poured from above.

But he did not stop.

He did not dare to.

Few times he slipped on a wet surface due to his naked feet. His leg even got stuck in a large puddle of mud at one time. Haru's body was adorned with scratches due to the thicket of brushes he had to navigate through. He was scared during the night, his ears and eyes always observed his surroundings. He did not even see one Grimm. Nor did he hear them. He did not know why but he did not question it.

His tiredness, however, was soon forgotten as his eyes laid upon two large mountains where buildings that were even larger than the mansion of Viktor Winchester stood. He always heard stories of Mistral. But none could compare to the sight that Haru was beholden to.

The large building built on top of both mountains piqued his interest. That must have been the Huntsman Academy right? It had to be. That is where he had to go.

When he arrived at one of the large gates, Haru took the opportunity and snuck past the guards unnoticed as they inspected a large metallic cart. His eyes lingered on the strange contraption for a bit longer as he tried to wrap his head around how horses might even move it along. It had wheels that much Haru could see but it was strange in design. It even made noise on its own. He shook his head and tried to focus on his current task again.

The first thing he took note of was the smell that assaulted his nostrils. A smell that was all too familiar to him. It would seem that Haru had made his way through the slums of Mistral where all manner of filth and waste lay beside the road.

He looked around and most of the people here were like him. They were Faunus. The realization made him a bit more at ease. As his eyes wandered around the buildings, Haru observed that many of them had no windows and were damaged in many areas, just like the houses they lived in. By these buildings were a lot bigger in comparison.

When he passed through the second set of walls, Haru noticed the buildings looked a lot nicer and were in better shape than those before. It would seem that the various classes of people were separated from each other. The stone walls themselves were made out of white stone where many statues of various people and creatures, he did not recognize, adorned the exterior. This time there were a lot more humans walked within these sets of walls, many of whom sneered at his presence. He clutched the bag he brought with him closer to his body.

This time his nostrils were assaulted by a different kind of smell. And it smelt so good his stomach started to grumble. Following the new scent, he picked up Haru arrived at a large building, and decided to enter it as his hunger got the best of him.

Only humans sat in the large room who ate and drank the various foods and drinks that sat in front of their table. From the corner of his eye, he saw a large man stand up from his stool and calmly walked in his direction.

Before Haru could greet him the man's fist connected with his stomach, the air of his lungs leaving him abruptly. As he doubled over a hand grabbed his ears and Haru was subsequently thrown out of the building and laded on the dirt road. Nursing his aching stomach his gaze fell onto the man who violently discarded him.

"We don't serve animals." He said with a snarl while pointing at a sign next to the door. Haru could not read but he understood the encircled crossed-out cat-head.

Before he could have said anything the large man slew the door shut leaving him on the street. Haru noticed that a few coins left his bag and hurriedly collected them before he stood up with a pained groan and focused back on his final destination. His ears burned with how they were treated. He hated it when the humans pulled at them.

"Hello, child." Another man in black clothing greeted him with a friendly smile. "You seem lost. Do you need help? You look like you're searching for someone."

Haru instantly perked up and nodded his head.

"Y-yes," he stammered.

"Oh?" The man raised an eyebrow. "And who might that be? Family? A friend?"

His eyes wandered to the small bag he held tightly in his hands.

"Or maybe a woman to entertain you for tonight?" he questioned with an amused grin.

"N-no!" Haru retorted hurriedly, understanding the man's insinuations, his cheeks becoming a shade redder. "I'm looking for a Huntsman!"

"What would a boy like you need a Huntsman for?" the man asked, intrigued.

"My family and everyone else is dangerous and are being hurt by bad people." He explained. "They sent me to hire one and-"

Haru was interrupted as a hand closed around his throat and pushed him towards the ground. The human in black looked at him murderously as he raised a small knife ready to strike down. That's when Haru noticed that he was led away from the streets into a narrow alley. He wasn't able to scream for help.

"The least I can do is thank an animal like you for giving me something to eat tonight."

Tears started to gather in Haru's eyes when the man ripped the satchel from his hands. He failed his mom, his dad, his brothers, and his sisters. Now no one would come to help them. And he was so close to his goal too. Haru didn't want to look and closed his eyes as his tears flowed down his cheeks.

Then he felt the jerk and the sound of crunching bone reached his ears. Slowly Haru opened one eye and saw a knife lodged into the man's skull. Haru observed how the newest arrival threw the body to the side, cleaning the bloody knife on the dead man's black fabric. The one visible blue eye observed him from behind his olive helmet. Its left side is welded shut. But something was different. No, something felt different. Haru felt a sense of dread slowly start to sink in and he wanted it to stop.

Haru did not know of who he should be afraid more. Was it the man in black or was it the armored man in dark-green? The number of weapons the man visibly had certainly did not help his case. Nor did the huge black wolf next to him.

The man crouched down and retrieved Haru's bag. Before the boy could protest, the man in green simply tossed the satchel to him and made to leave the alley. Haru was stunned and quickly stood up following the man.

As soon as he was on the street again, Haru observed how the humans gave him a wide berth. Was that uncomfortable feeling coming from him? But seeing the people afraid of him Haru sprinted after him. Surely only a Huntsman could evoke such authority, right?

"Wait!" he cried out.

The man came to stop and looked at him, over his right shoulder. His piercing gaze made him stop immediately. The humans around them watched the scene before them.

"Please," he said, his eyes shining hopefully. "I want to hire you."

"I'm not for hire, kid." Came the emotionless response and he made his way to leave again.

"Y-you don't understand!" Haru said frantically. "My family is in danger and are being hurt. You're a Huntsman and Huntsmen help people."

Wolfe came to a stop and regarded the Haru once more. There was desperation in the kid's eyes.

"Please help me!" he begged.

With his glaive, Wolfe motioned the boy to follow him. Not wasting another second Haru made his way next to the man's side. Getting closer Haru noticed the dents and scratches in the man's armor and dried blood still clinging to his coat.

The man in green made his way towards a building, Haru was all too familiar with. It was the restaurant where he was violently thrown out of. He was apprehensive at first when the man beckoned him inside. And he followed right behind him.

As soon as he entered the large man that threw him out dramatically stood up and had fixed his sights onto him. Cracking his knuckles he made his way towards him.

"We don't serve animals here!" he sneered. "Your kind never learns, does it?"

Haru panicked as the hand of the man reached out to his ears again. And as soon as he did so, the large black wolf bit into it. The large man got down on his knees, screaming in pain as the fangs of the creature bore themselves deeper into his flesh, blood flowing from the wound. The bustling of the restaurant came to an abrupt halt at the commotion. All eyes watched at the unfolding scene.

"Now," Wolfe said calmly, looking into the eyes of the man whose hand was stuck between Nacht's jaws. It unsettled Haru how easily the large man was brought to his knees with fear written over his face. "I sincerely hope that a monad like you can recall his manners and apologize to the boy. If not… well I suppose my old friend Nacht here," At the mention of his name the wolf dug his teeth a bit deeper, eliciting another pained whimper. "might have to rectify the failings of your parents."

"I-I am… s-sorry" he cringed through a pained pause. "We… will happily… serve you."

"That wasn't so hard, now, was it?" Wolfe asked to which the man nodded. His single eye scanned the room. And as he did so the other patrons avoided eye-contact while he ran his unarmored hand through his companion's black fur. "Let him go, Nacht."

When the wolf followed his command the man immediately ran away into the back, to no doubt nurse his wound. Haru followed Wolfe to one of the tables in one of the dimly light corners of the restaurant. As both of them sat opposite from each other, Wolfe observed the boy's malnourished state. He had bruises all over him and the rags he wore reminded him of when he first met Mai.

Before one of them could utter a word a burly man approached the table with a pen and notepad. He desperately avoided eye-contact with Wolfe and started to become uncomfortable as soon as he stepped near him. The man took quick glances at Nacht who made himself comfortable next to Wolfe, fearful after witnessing what had transpired a few minutes ago.

"W-what can I get you today, s-sir?"

"Water and your number one for the boy," Wolfe answered him with finality. Nodding the man scurried away.

"Why do you want to hire me?" Haru's attention snapped back to Wolfe. Despite the uncomfortable feeling of unease which was only heightened when he looked into his one eye, the boy started to relay his story of Viktor Winchester and his Huntsmen turned Mercenary. How the Faunus he owned were mistreated and what he used them for. While it was hard for Haru to look at the man who sat opposite from him, he did not waver and maintained eye-contact.

After a while, the burly man returned with the glass of water and the food Wolfe ordered for him. Before the man could place the order before Haru, he was interrupted by Wolfe.

"A few meters from your fine establishment," the tone in his voice contradicted his opinion of the restaurant. "I walked past a massive amount of horse-dung," Wolfe said as his eye pierced through the man. "I do hope nothing was added into the boy's food and drink that is not meant to be eaten by a person." The man began to grow nervous while sweat ran down his face. But he did not dare look away as Wolfe spoke with deadly seriousness. "You might want to make sure the correct ingredients were used before I have to force you to eat said horse-dung."

There was a long pause as the two of them simply stared at each other, the threat still hanging in the air.

"Do I make myself clear?" Wolfe asked coldly.

"Y-yes, s-sir!" The man immediately answered, retracting the dish that was ordered for Haru and made his way back into the kitchen.

"Continue."

He continued his tale, to which Wolfe started to ask questions. How many men did Viktor Winchester have? What weapons they used, where the mansion was, and many more.

Haru could not answer them all but the man seemed satisfied with those that he could.

After about thirty minutes of Haru talking and Wolfe intently listening, Haru's food arrived once more. This time Wolfe said nothing, a gestured for the man to leave which he gladly did.

The food that was placed in front of him looked so… exotic. Haru had never seen such an array of vegetables, meat, and rice. It was like he was in heaven. With wide eyes, he observed the plate before him but remembered the other person at the table as his growling stomach snapped him out of his enraptured state.

"You can eat first," Wolfe told him as he passed him his utensils. "Then we can continue."

Haru did not have to be told twice and dug into his plate.

Scraping off the last of the rice and vegetables, Haru was saddened by how quickly he managed to eat the best food he ever had. It was definitely than the dry bread they have to eat back home.

Holding out the sack he brought with him, Wolfe took it into his own hand, weighing its contents. As he laid the satchel in the middle of their table, Haru was confused that he did not look into it.

"This is all we could gather," Haru explained. The silence he was met with had him concerned that the man did not find what was given to him satisfying.

"T-there is still much more in the mansion." Haru quickly added to which Wolfe scoffed. Wolfe has already come to a decision and any further arguments would not change his mind.

"Treasures and items of great value." Haru did not know if that was true. It was what his parents said and he took their word for it.

"You may go," Wolfe told him, to which the boy visibly deflated and a notion of defeat settled within him. As he went to grab the satchel the armored hand of Wolfe stopped his own.

"Please!" he exclaimed. "I need to find someone who can help us!"

"You will leave your bag here."

Tears started to flow, as he realized that he failed in his task to find help. Retreating his hand Haru stood up and silently made his way towards the door.

On last time he looked at Wolfe, noticing that the satchel was not moved from the center of the table. Opening the sliding door, he had nothing left to do but head back home.

At least the man in black was an honest thief.


After he found a place to rest, Haru took on the two-day journey back home. For some reason, it felt like it took him greater time to return than he originally needed when he traveled to the Kingdom.

And in that time the tears did not stop. His failure and only chance to save them from their cruel life still hung over him like storm clouds.

Once he spotted the dreaded walls of Viktor's property he hid within the thickets of the forest and waited for the dead of night to settle before he made his way back inside. He wanted nothing more than to curl up into the comforting arms of his mother. To forget the strenuous days he had left behind.

Slipping through the hidden hole back into the other side, Haru carefully navigated through the buildings keeping himself in the shadows. While no one was around, Haru still exercised caution, triple-checking the area before he advanced.

Reaching his house the sounds of sobbing reached his ears. It was the sound of his mother. She was probably still worried about his safe return. Upon silently entering their shared living space Haru was greeted with the sight of his mother sitting in front of their fireplace alone, crying as she watched the flames dance. He took one quick look around noting the absence of his father and siblings.

"Mommy?" he asked worriedly.

The eyes of his mother snapped open and she looked at him in alarm and fear. Something must have happened while he was gone. But before she could give any warning a figure came around the corner of their small house.

"Hello, Haru." Amida smiled cruelly from beneath his dark-gray helmet. "We have been waiting for your safe return."


For multiple hours the boy was tortured while Viktor simply watched as Haru screamed in pain. They chained and gagged his mother in the same torture room while they did so. Their torturer cut off one of his filthy bunny ears but the boy still did not answer any of their questions. Only when they did the same to his mothers did the boy's tongue start giving away his secrets, begging them to stop hurting her.

"Did the animal tell you anything?" Amida asked

"While that old rodent gave us everything we needed to know, the boy most certainly put the missing pieces together."

Amida remembered that day well. The old animal told them of the plot against his employer. Totally out of loyalty of course. And Viktor was very grateful for it and rewarded the man with his enlightenment, meaning the old fool was burned alive in front of the rest of the cattle.

"Don't tell me he found someone who actually excepted?" Amida asked

"Yes, it would seem he found someone who excepted the payment they gave him." Viktor relayed his findings. "A Huntsman to be exact."

"A Huntsman?" Amida's scarred features narrowed. "What should we do?"

"I want you and three others to travel to Mistral and bring me that scum alive!" Viktor exclaimed. "We will torture whoever they are in the middle of their homes so they might be reminded of what will happen if they go against my will."

"Very well," Amida said. But before he left one last thought plagued his mind. "What of the boy? Do you want me to hang him next to his father and brothers?"

Viktor gave his question some thought but shook his head before a sadistic smile covered his face. "No, he will be my latest… entertainment tonight. After I had some of my training. Its been five days already since I had some fun."

"And the sisters and the mother?" Amida asked.

"We lost a lot more of our stock than I would have liked." Viktor sighed. "After they will watch how that maggot gets torn to pieces, we should begin getting the numbers back up."

Amida understood the implications.

"You will have to excuse me, Amida," Viktor said. "I have to get my affairs in order and you have your own to complete. I suggest you begin so immediately."

"I can't wait for you to bring me that bastard and hear him beg for mercy at my feet." Viktor smiled with chilling excitement.

In the same evening, four riders departed from the main gate and headed towards the Kingdom of Mistral. Amida knew them for years at this point. Each of them possessing martial prowess befitting of Huntsmen. But he also chose them because they had no qualms stabbing a sleeping man in the back. They most certainly had done far worse than killing an unarmed man in their servitude to their employer, one more crime would not weigh heavily on their coincidence. And they would continue to do so, so long the necessary Lien made its way into their pockets.

"Remember," Amida warned them. "Viktor wants him alive so don't get too excited."

The men nodded to his orders and under the guiding light of Remnants shattered moon they navigated the narrow pathway of the forest. There were no roads towards the mansion and made it impossible for motorized vehicles to reach their employer's property.

Amida scanned his surroundings not wanting to fall prey to any Grimm that strayed in their direction. An ax suddenly flew from the forest burrowing itself inside the neck of the horse at the front. The animal collapsed to the side, pinning the leg of its rider.

With another flash of steel, a large ax-like weapon connected with the second rider, pushing him off of his horse. The second man landed on his hind dazed by the sudden attack, the blue color of his Aura flaring only for a moment. The sudden feeling of dread spread across their ranks.

The third rider commanded his steed to rush their attacker with hate and fury. But as soon as he reached their unknown assailant the man simply side-stepped and with an overhead strike decapitated the horse, sending the man flying forward.

Amida for his part jumped off of his horse and hid between the nearest bushes, hoping to conceal his presence.

The sound of growling made Amida's head snap towards the first rider who was still pinned underneath his dead horse. A large black hound-like shape stood above his comrade, its amber eyes glowing with killing intent. The man upon seeing the beast panicked and reached for his blade that was also stuck beneath the horse. With an angry snarl, the beast jumped at the man's throat sicking its teeth into him. With its continued trashing, the back shape broke his comrade's Aura and bore its white fangs into his flesh. Amida could hear him gurgling on his own blood as he scratched at the creature's face.

Their attacker punched the second rider in the face when he tried to stand up, making him fall down again. With a series of slashes from his weapon, their assailant broke his comrade's Aura. With one horrifying scream, the man's skull was split in two.

His third companion that was flung from his horse rushed at the man with his two swords raised. His attacks were swift but were ultimately parried by the newcomer. With one sidestep the man had enough breathing room to swing his weapon from the side. It connected with the last of his comrade's side, sending him crashing into a tree. His Aura, too, broke. Instead of excepting defeat, the mercenary rushed the man, his weapons reaching out to strike a blow. But none connected. With a savage kick, the third of his men tried to incapacitate their attacker. But with a swift motion with his large weapon, the leg was severed below the knew. Face-first he fell to the ground screaming in anguish. Calmly their attacker retrieved the throwing ax that was still lodged into the horse and approached the third man.

"Please don't-" and with one swift motion of the smaller ax, his throat was cut.

Amida cursed, slowly standing up, he wanted to retreat into the forest. But fate would not grant him such as he slipped on a muddy surface, snapping a few twigs in the process.

As he fell down the throwing ax narrowly missed his head, loading itself into the nearest tree. The weapon would found its mark were it not for his slip.

As soon as the man stood before him, Amida could make out his features. Armored with a dark-green coat, a helmet with one visible eye. It was him, the Huntsman that animal spoke of. He was already here and killed three of his men.

"I will make sure to tell the guys to take their time with you." Amida spat the words out, his scarred face livid with anger.

The grip of the man simply grew firmer around his weapon, his single blue eye burning into his very soul.

This time Wolfe rushed the last remaining man with a sinister silence that unnerved Amida. Drawing his sword Amida threw himself at him as they exchanged blow after blow, but none of them found its intended target. They soon found their blades locked in place, Amida slowly gaining the upper hand. With the flick of his wrist, Amida protruded a small dagger aiming for the man's vitals.

Put before his blade could pierce his adversary, Amida was knocked back. With a kick to his armored head, he was thrown to the side, losing his blades in the process. Panicked Amida reached for the only other weapon he had.

As he still spun he retrieved his whip and lashed out at Wolfe. The weapon connected with a satisfying crack but did no damage as it hit the man's chest plate.

Wolfe's entire body froze.

The whip cracked again.

Memories of his time in the mines flooded his mind. Memories he believed to have suppressed so long ago. His breathing began to quicken and felt as if he was being suffocated inside of his helmet. Wolfe swore that a burning sensation made its way through his entire back. His head started to hurt and his eyes stung.

Wolfe suddenly felt an impact and found himself laying on the ground with Amida on top of him. The force knocking him out of his dazed state. His glaive was knocked out of his hands and only just intercepted the dagger that came down for his throat. Both men wrestled with the blade.

After a short struggle under illuminating light of the moon, a blade sunk into one of the men's flesh, and a dry gasp escaped the lips of the man who was unfortunate enough to have lost the scuffle.


The sentry manning the walls to Winchesters property signaled the lone rider approaching the gate to halt. Despite the darkness, he could make out the distinct dark-gray helmet of Amida, thanks to the light the shattered moon lent him. Upon closer inspection, he spotted the other body settled on the horse's back. From atop his walls, he congratulated Amida for the swift and successful hunt of the Huntsman. Another of the mercenaries followed the man outside of the gates, sharing his excitement.

"Look like you guys caught the bastard faster than any of us could have anticipated." He let out a laugh only sparing Amida a short glance. There was little entertainment to be had in Winchesters mansion. Except when he was allowed to have his way with the animals his employer owned. "Did the others still travel to Mistral? Lucky sons of bitches get to have a little fun at least."

He had to stop for a moment as an incredible feeling of foreboding reached him. It was as if small insects crawled under his skin. The Huntsman instincts he acquired working in the field screamed at him that something was terribly wrong. He took a look around but found nothing out of the ordinary. Perhaps his tiredness finally got the better of him. Discarding his unease he continued he strode towards his fellow mercenary.

Amida simply nodded and dismounted from his steed as the man chuckled at his own words as he removed the helmet off the man that lay on the horse's back. The scarred face that greeted him, he knew all too well.

"What the fuck?" he asked in disbelief.

Amida's dead eyes stared into his, the throat of the man cut wide open. Quickly recovering from his shock, he wanted to shout in alarm. But it was too late as the fist of the rider connected with his throat making the man cough from the contact. The next thing he felt was the knife that penetrated his Aura and its blade sunk into his jugular.

The second man on the other hand had no time to react to his partner's demise as Nacht swiftly silenced any opposition from him.

Wolfe removed the dark-gray helmet from his head and exchanged it with his own. Passing the portal to the other side a third made sprung up from his chair upon seeing him. But Wolfe's reflexes were faster. Grabbing his fistful of hair he slammed the guard's head against the stone wall until his Aura broke. But he only stopped when the satisfying crunch of bone could be heard. A large stain of blood now covered the wall next to the gate.

So this was the place the boy, Haru, told him of. Viktor Winchester's mansion. Wolfe looked opposite the gigantic building, towards, what he guessed would be the rundown houses of the Faunus. As soon as the boy left, Wolfe and Nacht made their way to the mansion. The moment the boy told him his story, Wolfe knew Winchester had to die. And it would be by his hands. Seeing at how the people reacted towards Haru it was safer to take the reward, instead of having the boy look around further for any help. He doubted that Haru would have succeeded in his task even if he tried.

His gaze fell upon three bodies that hung from a pole in the midst of the Faunus living space. One man and two boys, all of them having the same features as Haru. Their bodies were beaten and broken before they met their inevitable end. They seemed to have been executed only a few days ago. There was nothing he could have done for them.

His thoughts soured as spared one last glance at the bodies he left behind. They, like Viktor Winchester, were Huntsmen. They once swore to protect and serve the people of Remnant. It disgusted him that the oaths they took could be so easily forgotten. Huntsmen truly were a corrupt ilk.

Wolfe simply dropped the body, paying it no further mind, and silently continued his way deeper into Winchester's property.


She should have expected it. She should have. And yet she still found her breathing quicken, the nerves of where her arm was severed burning anew by the news Qrow delivered her. Tonight she had to pour countless cups of tea the help her calm her strained nerves. It would seem bad news arrived faster than a swooping Nevermore.

Sitting in her room inside Atlas's Huntsman Academy, Winter read the updates on the Huntsman board regarding the Wandering Wolf. They even had a sketch of him. Well, at least the black hoodie, camo pants, armored arm, and the helmet that he wore before it was destroyed. But there was no mention of his ruined eye. It would seem even now her father's reputation was being protected.

General Ironwood and all of the other Headmasters of the Huntsman Academies increased the bounty on the Wandering Wolf, giving him one of the highest threat levels a criminal on Remnant can have and with it a kill on sight order.

This would only prove to hinder investigation much to her frustration and annoyance. But she couldn't blame the General for his decision. She did lose her arm in her engagement.

But the thought of someone else getting to him before she could and get the answers to her questions, was a prospect that was frighteningly real. She would need to continue her investigation in earnest now. She just wanted to know what happened to her brother. Was that too much to ask?

In the last week, she tried to find new leads but every road she took was met with a dead end. Doctor Mirella Fass hadn't even contacted her at that time.

At least Weiss distracted her from her thoughts and worries. Her little sister apparently made a deal with their father in order for her to join Beacon Acadamy in the Kingdom of Vale. Weiss would have to prove her worth to him. But how even Winter did not know. Their father reveled in his open vagueness and the use of his mind games. Only time would tell what he had in mind for her little sister.

A small smile graced her lips as she remembered the past few days, where the both of them trained to improve Weiss's usage of her glyphs.

She wished she could spend more time with her.

Another notification on her private terminal brought her out of her musings. It was a long-awaited e-mail from Mirella Fass. Opening its contents Winter slammed her fist onto her desk, gritting her teeth. Her uncle's colleagues were all deceased. Winter did not like what she was reading. Doubts started to sink in as she questioned the validity of these reports. It all just seemed too convenient. Winter was convinced someone was trying their hardest to erase the existence of her brother. And she already had a prime suspect. But why? They suffered an unfortunate car, health, and work accidents. All of them were dead, except one nurse who was listed as missing by her friends. By a May Marigold who retracted the same report days later.

Winter knew of May Marigold. She once lived in Atlas too. But has now chosen to aid the people of Mantle.

It was a slim lead, but a lead nonetheless. Searching inside the Huntsman database Winter found what she was looking for and made plans to travel down to Mantle in the coming days.

She would need to inform Qrow of her findings.


He only had about thirty minutes left with the animals currently chained in his torture chambers before the boy would be delivered for Viktor Winchester's nightly entertainment. He was saddened by the prospect of losing his new pet.

The boy was chained to his rack, his little body covered in cuts and bruises. Walking to his left his hand firmly gripped the iron rod that was currently being heated by the burning coals in his furnace. Retrieving he held the rod in front of his face, observing the heated end, basking in its warmth.

Turning towards the boy once he found his fearful eyes staring at his newest instrument with which he would use against him. Chains rattled near the wall off to the side as his mother watched the mercenary made his stride towards her son. The man looked into her swollen face, laughing cruelly as she had to watch the horrific treatment.

"Don't worry," he told her with a smile. "The last boy of your litter will find peace soon enough. But first, he will have to think about what he did."

The metal rod touched the skin of his left shoulder and the man slowly and deliberately dragged it down to his right hip. He savored the child's screams as if he were watching Atlas's opera. The mother fought against her chains as she screamed and sobbed into the piece of cloth that gagged her. His skin sizzled as a red burn mark made itself visible. The man's smile widened as he continued with his trade. It was truly a shame the boy had to leave tonight for he had so much fun. The man repeated the same motion with the right side of the boy's shoulder before he put the rod back in its hot resting place and turned to the mother once more.

"His suffering and my fun." He sighed in disappointment "will, unfortunately, have to end soon."

He pulled out his knife and stood next to the weeping boy, slowly caressing his remaining ear. With his blade, he pointed towards the other ear and the one bigger ear of the mother which hung from two separate hooks from the wall.

"I will be taking a souvenir though." He said, his smile never leaving his face. "But don't worry about yourself. Winchester explicitly told me to let you keep yours. A reminder for your transgressions. And who knows? If you'll be a good animal maybe I'll let you see his ears from time to time."

Chuckling at his own words, he firmly grabbed Haru's remaining ear, setting the knife at its base.

"Mommy!" Haru called out to his mother. The sound of her son's desperate voice made her pull on her restraints once, frantically trying to escape. But they did not yield. All she could do was watch her son's torturer commit his heinous acts.

The man made to speak again, but was interrupted as the door to the chamber flew inward and a large wolf pounced at him. Desperately he tried to intercept Nacht's fangs but was too slow in doing so. The black wolf's massive jaws bit down and the man screamed at the contact. With violent thrashes Nacht broke the unprepared man's aura, his teeth sinking into flesh drawing blood. The iron taste only intensifying Nacht's violent trashes.

As the torturer now laid on the ground begging the beast to release him from its grip, Wolfe entered the chambers.

"Oh thank Oum!" The man exclaimed. "Kill this mutt and-"

With his armored hand, Wolfe punched him in the face, breaking his nose and a few teeth. Grabbing a fistful of the man's hair Wolfe pulled the whimpering man towards his own furnace, holding his face down into it. His terrified screams were muffled by the hot coals that lay within, as he desperately fought against the hand that held him down. Soon enough his body went limp, signaling his passing.

Wolfe made his way towards Haru and with his glaive severed the chains that held him on the rack. The boy was exhausted from his ordeal and did not register his surroundings very well. Turning, Wolfe freed his mother, the woman rushing to her son's side, cradling him in her arms.

As Wolfe made his way over to their side, the mother panicked and snatched the knife the man dropped and defensively held it out in front of her and Haru. Coming to a stop a meter from them, he crouched down and offered his canteen. She contemplated for a moment and hesitantly accepted his offer after putting the blade down.

"You came," Haru rasped, making Wolfe and his mother look in his direction. A small smile adorned his face as tears flowed. "You actually came."

Understanding flashed in the eyes of the mother, her gaze meeting Wolfe's.

"Please," she said frantically. "My daughters-"

The pained cries of a girl from one of the other chambers interrupted her. Dread filled her eyes as recognition crossed them. Wolfe immediately understood. He stood up, retrieved the heated iron rod from the furnace, and made his way towards the scream.

Standing in front of the heavy wooden door the unmistakable sound of the whip hitting flesh reached Wolfe's ears. Kicking the portal open he wasted no time to rush the man who held the weapon in question.

There were two young girls who had the same features as Haru and his mother. The older, who seemed to be seventeen, protected her younger sister with her own body.

The man spun around as his whip lashed out at Wolfe. With his armored arm, he intercepted the strike, his right hand firmly gripping the whip. The man cried in alarm as Wolfe pulled at the weapon, dragging him closer. In his left hand, Wolfe held the heated rod up high while sprinting across the room. The burning tip penetrated through the man's throat, his back hitting the stone wall. Blood exploded from his mouth as his body slumped down.

The eldest of them was trembling in fear when he laid eyes on them and still stood in front of her sister, shielding her.

"Katsumi! Fumiko!" Their mother entered the chamber with Haru in her arms, bolting towards her daughters.

"Mom!"

"Mommy!"

As reached them, the mother fell onto her knees and took them into her embrace, kissing the top of their heads. The two sisters immediately grew worried upon seeing their brother. Wolfe watched the reunion for only a few seconds before he made for his leave.

"Are you going after Winchester?" The mother asked him.

"Yes." He turned to face her. Her beaten features studying him intently.

"Make sure that that son of a whore suffers." She said through clenched teeth, the eye that was not swollen, shone with fury.

Nodding at her request, Wolfe left the torture chambers.


Walking through the mansion Wolfe could tell that Viktor Winchester likes the expensive taste and it was clear to him that he liked to flaunt it. Exotic food and items that could be sold for a fortune, were on full display throughout the halls. What a shame it was that his muddied boots ruined the marble floors.

Did he feel bad about it?

No.

One showcase, in particular, caught his eye. He was directly staring at a sawed-off, pump shotgun. Many would argue that there was nothing special about such a weapon. But for Wolfe, it was when said weapon was introduced.

During the Great War, the Vacuan Stormtroopers used this shotgun when they charged the battle-lines of Atlas and Mistral. He looked at the wooden handle and forearm of the weapon. The dunes and flora of Vacuo were beautifully carved into it. A fine weapon such as this was only given to soldiers who showed great dedication to the aforementioned Kingdom. The Vacuan Stormtroopers were one of the most feared units that fought during the war as they were the ones who spearheaded the attacks. The weapon could even kill a man despite having an Aura and earned itself the name "Vacuan Devil".

With his armored fist, he shattered the showcase and retrieved the weapon from it. He felt unworthy to hold it, his fingers caressing the wooden handle. It would definitely sell for a good price on the black market. He took one of the shells that lay beside it and loaded the shotgun. This was no weapon to sell or a piece to collect dust. No, Wolfe would make sure that he would use the weapon for its intended purpose.


Viktor Winchester impatiently sat atop his throne, looking down at his bloodied arena. The training against his Huntsmen turned mercenary was harder than he expected. His prime days of hunting Grimm were over and it saddened him deeply. How much he longed those times to return.

Now Viktor simply wished to watch tonight's entertainment. To forget the state of his aging body. His day started good and now he felt his foul mood increase steadily. That fool in torture chambers was testing the limits of his patience. That little animal should have been here almost fifty minutes ago. Just like the mother so she could have watched the consequences of defying his rule.

Raising his chalice, the young slave girl approached from behind his throne and poured him his expensive wine. When she retreated from his sight, Viktor drank from the chalice. A feeling of warmth spread through his body as the alcohol flowed down his throat.

An exasperated sigh escaped him. Not one of his henchmen were in his immediate vicinity so he could send them to fetch the two beasts. Their idiotic plan to overthrow him blew up in their faces.

When the slave girl behind him let out a small gasp, Viktor turned and backhanded her with his armored glove. The Faunus flinched from the sudden hit but did not cry out. He observed how blood trickled down her cheek from where he struck her. Four visible marks adorned the place where her hideous scales were cut off from.

Turning around, Viktor looked into one single blue eye. It shone with the inviting warmth of an early grave. And that is what he felt. He sat frozen in his throne looking at the one green, armored figure that had the audacity to stand in front of him. That's when he realized who stood in front of him. It was that dammed Huntsman who accepted that animal's plea.

His eyes widened as the man procured a whip, which he recognized as Amida's, and struck the weapon out against him. The first hit shattered his weakened Aura. The second one hit him across the face, ruining his right eye. Viktor cried out in pain, dropping his chalice.

The now frightened young slave girl retreated back into a corner shielding her small body with her arms.

"Unfortunately for you," The cold voice of Wolfe told him. "I believe that tonight's entertainment will be a bit different."

Viktor desperately looked around, searching for his men.

"I'm afraid no one will come for you," Wolfe stated. "I believe your men are currently… indisposed."

"Please," Winchester said, panic and fear marring his features. "I can make you a rich man. Just tell me what you want and it's yours. Whatever these animals gave you, I can provide it tenfold."

Discarding the whip, Wolfe drew his knife and rammed his blade into Viktor's shoulder, making the man scream in pain.

With his index finger, Wolfe pushed the handle of his knife, making the man move forward towards the edge of the arena. Pulling the blade back out, blood started to pour from the wound he inflicted. He kicked the whimpering man in the back and making him fall down into the arena.

"What did those animals give you!?" Viktor demanded to know from him.

Retrieving the small bag Haru carried with him, Wolfe emptied its contents into the arena. Winchester watched as it fell in front of his knees. He was dumbfounded as to what he was seeing. Fifteen Lien, in the form of coins and one old moldy bread, were inside of that bag. Was he being played for a fool?

"They gave me everything." Wolfe simply answered, pulling the lever next to the throne.

Viktor's eyes went wide in horror. The Boarbatusk charged out from its holding and one of its tusks rammed through the man's stomach. The Grimm started to thrash the man around ripping and tearing his flesh and innards. Viktor's body was severed at the waist and the Grimm calmed down from its murderous rampage.

Moment of truth then.

Stepping on foot forward, Wolfe descended down to where he discarded Viktor Winchester.

The Grimm did not move towards him. Instead, it started to scratch the stone walls of the arena, his panicked head movements searching for a way to escape. The closer he got to the abomination the more panicked it became as it seemed to be in immense pain. And he was a juicy target for a beast of such size. And yet it chose to retreat from him. With his index and middle finger of his unarmored hand, Wolfe caressed the bone-like mask of the Boarbatusk. It gave a panicked grunt at his touch. It amused him how a creature of Old Night, humanities greatest enemy, could cower in his presence. At the same time however, people felt this effect too. A heavy sigh escaped him at the thought.

Wolfe reached behind him, drawing the Vacuan Stinger from it's holster and pressed the muzzle of the weapon against the bone-like structure of the Grimm's face. For a short moment he gazed into those depthless red eyes of the Boarbatusk, seeing the fear and hatred that it harbored towards him.

A sudden change in demeanor overcame the creature of Old Night. With a feral shriek it was about to strike the weapon away as it found its purpose for mindless destruction again. But it was already too late for its fate was sealed.

Wolfe squeezed the trigger and a loud concussive boom echoed through the chamber. The Boarbatusk let out a pitiful last whine as black ichor flew in all directions, its abhorrent existence cut short. The carcass was already disintegrating, leaving no trace of itself behind.

Wolfe tilted his head to the side, watching in fascination. He always read that Grimm never leave evidence of their existence behind when slain. This was the first time he actually saw the process for himself.

"Curious." he muttered to himself.

Looking back up to the Winchester's throne, Wolfe's eye met those of the young girl that served her now-dead master minutes ago. Fearfully she bolted to one of the exit doors, needing no further encouragement to take her leave.

With his task done Wolfe left the arena and the mansion as a whole, retreating back into the surrounding forest. The only thing for him to do was to wait for Sienna at their meeting place after she and the White Fang took care of the Faunus slaves.


Four approaching sets of footsteps captured his attention, as he heard the rustling of the leaves they walked on. Turning around he saw the figures that entered the room. Three of them, Wolfe recognized. It was Sienna, Ilia, and Adam.

The fourth person wore a white sleeveless shirt with a black buttoned vest with coattails, white shorts, black heeled boots, and black stockings that were purple at her ankles. Sheathed to her back was a sword, Wolfe did not quite get a good look at. Her most defining feature was the two cat-like ears atop her black hair. She too wore a Grimm-like mask.

Nacht who sat next to him was also on high alert by the newcomers, his amber eyes curiously watching them.

They stepped into the small clearing where Wolfe stood in its center. The fourth addition to their group seemed nervous and wary despite their display of confidence.

"Hello Wolfe," Sienna greeted tiredly, the exhaustion of the past few days visible.

"Good Morning," He welcomed them. "I trust that everything went well."

"More or less". Sienna nodded. "The last of the slaves are currently being escorted to the trucks since we can't get them closer to the mansion thanks to the terrain." A heavy sigh escaped her. "The conditions were even worse than we thought. There was a family of four that asked about you, the mother said they wanted to thank for saving her boy."

"I see, "Wolfe was glad to hear that Haru and his family were safe now. "Where will you be taking them."

"Ghira will be taking them back to Menagerie," Sienna said. "Since they were slaves outside the Kingdoms' jurisdiction, Mistral will refuse to provide them any compensation. It's an excuse they have used in the past when we brought people back from the Grimmlands. I don't have much hope that their attitude has changed."

"You could have at least let that old bastard live." Adam groused. "We might have gained some valuable information. You did do a number on him though."

"Unfortunately for him his pet Boarbatusk drew out his suffering a bit more than he would have liked."

"Pet Boarbatusk?" Ilia asked confused to which Wolfe could only nod.

"He made his slaves confront a Grimm for his own twisted entertainment." He elaborated, anger, shock, and disgust crossed their faces. Wolfe turned towards Sienna and gave her one of Watts's many memory sticks he took with him. They did come in handy from time to time.

"I believe that the information I took out of the mansion will be quite helpful to you. Winchester's supporters will have to face Mistral's courts, should you decide to make everything public." Wolfe handed her the thumb drive.

"How many are there?" She asked.

"I'm afraid you won't like the answer," Wolfe answered.

"I'll have a look at it once we're back in Mistral," Sienna let out a shuddering sigh. "I already dread to find out the extent of it."

"Once we get everyone back, we'll inform the authorities as to what has transpired." She said. "Are you sure you want to go along with this? The Kingdoms will only increase their efforts trying to capture you. Or worse."

"The Kingdoms wanted me dead even before I started attacking SDC mines and slave markets," Wolfe answered. "I don't see how this should dissuade them from their current path. So I will simply continue to fight one evil with another."

"Very well," The was a note of sadness. Pity for him which he did not like. "We'll see you back in Mistral, Wolfe.

Ilia and Adam were the first to take their leave, the former looking at him with, what he could only describe as respect. But Wolfe was sure that there was still a long road ahead of him inside of the White Fang.

"Avelinn woke up hours after you left," Sienna said, turning around to regard him once more. "She's asked about you."

While Sienna continued her way back to the White Fang convoy, her words gave Wolfe pause. He did not expect Avelinn to ask for his whereabouts. And while it was unexpected it was not unwelcomed. Snapping out of his musings his gaze locked with that of the last member who still stood in the clearing. They stared at each other for seconds that seemed to warp themselves into long agonizing minutes. The eyes which were hidden by the Grimm-like mask, no doubt, scrutinized every fiber of his body. And as they did so none of them spoke a word. Thanks to her expressionless features, she was hard to read that much Wolfe had to admit.

"Blake!" Ilia shouted in their direction, breaking their silent stare-down. "Come on let's go!"

With one last look in his direction, the girl who he now knew as Blake, retreated back into the thicket of the surrounding forest. Nacht's weeping brought his focus to his companion.

"Me too buddy," Wolfe ran his left hand through his black fur, his eye lingering on the place where the girl once stood. "Me too."

He procured another flash drive from his pocket, observing the small device in his hand. He made sure to make himself a copy of all the data he downloaded. What he found was disturbing. Wolfe imaged that the information would ruin quite a few lives and reputations, should it become public knowledge. But something else was bothering him. Something he could not make sense of. Why was Haven, the Huntsman Academy of Mistral sending secret funds towards Viktor Winchester? Wolfe was confused. Was the Headmaster himself not a Faunus? He would have to tread carefully with this information, lest he endangered the lives of those within the White Fang.

This was going to be very interesting.


So... about what I said last time, needing more time to update?

Turns out I found the time to write this chapter and found it surprisingly easier to write since I didn't have as much of a writers-block like I had with the last chapter.

But I will have to say that it definitely will take time for the next chapters since my exam phase is still on-going.

A lot was inspired by the book Brunner The Bounty Hunter by C. L. Werner. It's a great read and i highly recommend it.

Anyway, I would appreciate your thoughts on the story so far.