Pariah


Chapter 11

A Daughter's Lament


Wolfe currently sat on the first floor of a tavern in the village of Abuta a few hours south from Mistral itself. It was in this tavern that he would meet with the thief Roman Torchwick and his partner Neopolitan.

The journey towards Abuta by horse was uneventful, a much-needed reprieve from the last few days. Before his departure, he wanted to speak with Avelinn at her request. But she was a bit delirious from the pain drugs Doctor Watts administered. But that did not stop her from trying her hardest to thank him.

For some reason, it did not console him much. He himself knew that he carried some guilt from what had happened to her. Was his guilt justified? He could honestly not say. But he felt it nonetheless. If only he had been faster her knee would still be intact. If only he had been faster. A tired sigh escaped him.

There was no changing the past, unfortunately. So he had to live with it.

Wolfe talked to Sienna and Ghira before his departure, informing them that he was headed south and would return in a couple of days. But he omitted his main objective to them, the reason as to why he was here in the first place.

His eyes scanned the lower part of the tavern once more. The bustling and laughter died down the moment he had entered through that door after he found a stable for his steed.

Now the people conversed in hunched whispers, sending curious glances in his and Nacht's direction as he sat at a round table. He hadn't touched his glass of water in front of him while he waited, watching some of clear liquid sliding down the side.

He never understood the appeal of alcohol. He found that it tasted horrible and dulled the senses. And if he wanted to stay alive his senses had to be sharp, given that he was a wanted man across all Kingdoms.

The bounty on his head has gone up considerably a few days after his surprising meeting with his long-lost sister, Winter. The Headmaster of Beacon Academy himself signed off on the change. How much he despised Huntsmen. And yet his sister was one too. Serving the very institutions wanting him dead. Somehow fate mocked him wherever he set foot.

The doors of the tavern opened inward and two individuals entered. From their clothing, Wolfe could tell that Roman and Neopolitan had arrived and watched as they made their way towards the barkeep. They exchanged words and the man pointed them towards his direction. That's when their eyes met. For a few seconds, nothing happened before Torchwick simply ignored the barkeep, making his way towards the stairs. Wolfe's lone visible eye never leaving them as they ascended the stairs.

When they got in range of his aura he saw the two bristle under its effect, Torchwick's eyes not breaking the gaze the two of them held.

"I know what you are." He said with narrowed eyes.

Roman Torchwick never believed the stories. They should have been fables to scare small unruly children to behave by their parents. Myths that's what they should have been. And now he wished those tales were just the imaginations of the decrepit who spoke of such beings. But now he sat in front of one.

A Pariah. Beings without a soul.

The stories did not give his unnerving presence justice. Roman wanted nothing more but to leave the tavern in order to not endure it any longer. He looked towards Neo, finding that she too felt uncomfortable. He gave her a promise and he would see it through to the end. Especially since they were so close to what they sought.

The large black wolf lying next to him did not make matters better. The massive beats amber eyes studying him and Neo intently. Roman would hate to be on the receiving end of those fangs. From the pictures he had seen it was best not to agitate the man's companion. A lesson many failed to learn.

"And what exactly am I, Torchwick?" The Wandering Wolf's harsh and emotionless tone brought Roman's attention back to the man in question. The stool on which sat creaked as the Pariah slowly leaned forward, coming close. Too close for his liking. His lone cold blue eye stared into his own as if he was trying to read his most inner thoughts. He swallowed the lump that formed inside of his throat at the revelation.

Neo's grip tightened around her weapon. This was no good. Curse his blabbering mouth. He didn't even realize that he uttered his sentence out loud. Neo was right, he should keep his tongue in check when it is required. More horrid things than a Pariah most certainly existed in their godforsaken world. But Roman seldom had to confess that he did not favor his chances when faced with such an abomination of nature.

Reaching into his breast pocket he retrieved one of his cigars. Imported directly from Vacuo. Even a man like him had his vices and he procures them like any honest man on Remnant. Quality had to be given its dues after all. Lighting the cigar, Roman took a long drag from it, exhaling the smoke.

"Have you ever read the book 'The Man With Two Souls'?" Roman asked him, his visible disgust turning into a smooth smile.

The Wandering Wolf intently watched him for a few agonizing seconds. The eye searched for a reason behind the question.

"I have." He simply stated.

"It's a fantastic read, wouldn't you agree?" Roman continued with a smirk as if they were old friends exchanging pleasantries. "Too bad some people don't know how to share with those… less fortunate."

From the corner of his eye, he noticed the confused and subtle glances Neo sent his way. He would have to tell her in due time.

Understanding crossed his lone eye.

"Some men hold their secrets close to heart, Torchwick." The man informed him with a cold and calm mixture. The piercing blue of his eye intensely looked into his dark-green ones. The promise of pain was written within it. "It would be a shame for those who are privy to it, to lose their loose tongue, wouldn't you agree?"

With another drag of his cigar, Roman nodded his head to the question.

"I most certainly do." He said with a chuckle. "While I would love to talk about my book recommendations with you, I believe we have much more urgent matters to discuss."

"I believe we do." The Wandering Wolf agreed. "The quarry of two parties lies beyond the eyes of any sane man. Objects of great value have been long lost within its walls. The only thing that remains for both parties to obtain is information."

"One might conclude that its worth might be more than gold." Roman exhaled another cloud of smoke, obscuring their field of view slightly. "At least to those brave or foolish enough to seek it out."

"Enough to satisfy both parties, should one party help the other." The Wandering Wolf added.

"And if one of the parties gets too greedy and abandons the other?" Roman asked with a raised eyebrow, the smile never left his face. Wolfe never trusted someone who could smile so easily.

"Then things might become very upsetting." He replied, letting the weight of his words hang in the air. "And I believe no one wants that."

"It would be best if both parties watched their back before a knife blade found itself embedded in it," Roman said while Neo caressed the handle of her parasol, shooting the man opposite a leveled glare with a sadistic smile. The Wandering Wolf seeming unbothered by her expression that would have cowered any other man. But Roman understood that The Wandering Wolf was no simple man. Far from it.

"And what if both parties chose to honor their word?" The Wandering Wolf questioned, his head slightly canted to the side. "Not that there is much for thieves to honor."

"Then both will help the other find their quarry. And when all is said and done they will part ways as if they never met each other." Torchwick replied slowly removing the ashes on the end of his cigar in the ashtray. "And the last time I checked, both parties were wanted by the authorities." He mused. "So I'm confused as to what honor you referring to, as there wasn't much, to begin with."

The Wandering Wolf nodded thoughtfully, a small dry laugh escaping him.

"Of course, both parties would be foolish enough to stop watching their backs." He said, nursing the throwing ax strapped to his hip. "Is there information of particular note?"

Roman chuckled once more while Neo's eyes narrowed at the man.

"I believe a wise man once told me that 'Some men hold their secrets close to heart'." He recounted with a wistful smile. "But maybe the other wants share the things he seeks?"

"It would seem that the words of wise men are carefully heeded." Wolfe conceded to his point.

"So it would seem." Roman echoed.

They sat at their table, carefully studying the other while the empty tavern was cloaked in uncomfortable silence. The innkeeper took his leave the moment he and Neo entered his establishment. The only sound that dared to break its tranquility was the droplets of heavy rain that came down onto the tavern's roof and the crackling of firewood as it lay inside of its burning place.

"Since you've been such a good student and have done your homework," Roman broke the tension, extinguishing his cigar. "I believe the least we can get is a name should we continue with the venture."

"Wolfe." He introduced himself.

Roman began to chuckle.

"Good one." He said but realized by Wolfe's serious demeanor that he wasn't joking.

"Oh, you- you're serious." He stated, his chuckle evolved into laughter.

Neo gave him a flat and unamused look while Roman simply stabilityred at him with a grin.

"Oh, so the Puppy does live for the aesthetics." He said chuckling, Wolfe's eyebrow twitched beneath his helmet. . "Please tell me you gave yourself the title of 'The Wandering Wolf'".

"No."

"That makes it even better!" Torchwick laughed, amused by the admission. "Well, you're at least making it easy for them, Puppy."

"The names Wo-"

"Yeah, yeah I heard you the first time." He said dismissing his protests. "I hope you were able to collect your essentials for tomorrow?"

"I already gathered my supplies," Wolfe elaborated, his frustration with the man decreasing, regarding the name he was given. "It will take us more than a day if we travel on horseback."

"Yeah about that," Roman interjected disapprovingly. "You see, I don't do horses. That's why we brought a truck. My back simply isn't what it once was you see."

Roman complained while he dramatically stretched his back at the mention. One might think that Huntsmen, even a former one, were hardier than this.

"Besides, I'm not good with animals and I'm not in the mood to ruin my suit while we travel. Or do you want me to fall into a puddle of mud?"

At this point, Wolfe would very much like to see that happen.

"Just think of the poor sod whose money I have to steal to buy the next one." Roman let out a pitiful sigh.

"You and your…" He looked down towards Nacht, a rather disapproving frown adorned his features. "pet, can occupy the back."

Wolfe let out a low growl at the term used for Nacht to which Roman immediately raised his hands in a defensive manner.

"I meant no offense." The smile on his face told Wolfe otherwise. "But we will have to travel on foot once we arrive at the village near our destination. The authorities have made everything inaccessible for the common folk. I pretty much doubt that even your precious horses can pass those obstacles."

"And what interest does this town have to you?" Wolfe asked.

Torchwick played with the handle of his cane, as he carefully considered his next words.

"We will meet with one of my informants who owes me a favor." Roman elaborated, his eyes wandering the empty hall. "Let's just say he used to work for mad Scientist and knows away inside."

"You are a well-connected man," Wolfe conceded. "Almost all of his former staff were arrested and trialed by the four Kingdoms."

"What can I say?" He replied with a smirk. "It's my enigmatic charm, I guess."

"I find that highly doubtful." Wolfe supposed anyone who would have their lives threatened to be a great motivator and Torchwick and Neopolitan did leave their fair share of bodies behind

"You'll see, Puppy," Roman shrugged in indifference. "I'll have you wrapped around my finger too."

His dislike for the thief only grew the more the man opened his mouth. But Wolfe supposed he would have to suffer his words for a few days more.

"Is he always this insufferable," Wolfe directed his question towards Neopolitan who put her finger on her chin, mimicking a thinking pose.

She answered his question with a curt nod, seeming all too pleased with herself. That's when Wolfe noticed the scar that adorned her throat. He would have to admit that Neopolitan did a good job trying to conceal the healed wound.

"Kids these days," Roman huffed, bringing Wolfe out of his current thoughts. "No respect for your elder." To which the girl could only roll her eyes.

"You talk as if there was respect, to begin with," Wolfe said to which Torchwick only hummed.

"All bark," he mused leaning forward staring into his only visible eye. "Let us hope that the rumors about you are true and that you can actually bite."

"For your sake," Wolfe unwaveringly met his gaze. "I pray you don't have to find out."

"And here I thought prayers only worked for those who are foolish enough to be of clear mind and soul." Wolfe did not give in to Torchwick's attempts at mockery, much to the man's dismay. The smug on his face losing its hold.

"As much as I like our little talk," Roman continued. "I think it's best we went ahead to our designated rooms a get a good night's rest for tomorrow's journey."

"On that, we can agree," Wolfe said, to which Roman nodded.

As they stood up Roman removed his Bowler hat, bowing to him.

"A good night to you, Puppy." He added with a chuckle and made his way towards their sleeping arrangements.

The man certainly had a flair for the dramatics.

Neopolitan watched as the man retreated from their table before she stared at Wolfe with her mismatched eyes, her eyebrow raised in curiosity. There was no note of warmth in her orbs. After a few seconds, she too took her to leave walking next to Torchwick's side. Wolfe observed how she communicated with him through hand gestures. Looks like his suspicions were confirmed. The girl was mute, her scar running deeper than he had at first anticipated. It would certainly explain her lack of words.

He sighed in annoyance. Wolfe was not looking forward to the next coming days. Listening to the downpour of Mistral's heavy rain, Wolfe and Nacht sat alone inside the tavern, where laughter and high spirits prevailed not hours ago.


When Wolfe awoke the next morning the rain did not cease to pour down from the skies. Looking out the small window from his equally small room, he noticed that the roads were even muddier than the evening before. Few people already pitifully trudged through the streets, their clothes caked by the streets sludge. Looking at the clock on his scroll, Wolfe noticed that it was still a bit early and sighed. While he did rest his body felt somewhat drained. It would seem that his sleep was troubled. A rather unusual assurance but there was nothing to be done.

Getting out of his temporary bed, Wolfe put his shirt, pants, coat, chain-mail, and armor back on. Since traveling further south he came to miss the cold weather of Mistral's northern region. It was one of the only times where would sleep only in his shorts, making the scars that littered his body visible. But he paid them no mind. He really did not like the warmer climate. He couldn't wait to be back home again.

The belt for his throwing ax was slung around his waist and the holster for his shotgun at the back. His eyes moved towards Nacht who he shared the same room with. His loyal companion fell asleep on his back, his legs spread out in all directions. A small chuckle escaped him. Nacht always had a habit to sleep in amusing positions. Rubbing his exposed belly, Wolfe disturbed the wolf's slumber. Stretching all of his limbs Nacht let out a loud yawn.

"I know," He said. "You can sleep when we're on the road."

Nacht stood up and sat in front of the door waiting for Wolfe to make his final preparations. Grabbing his helmet, his thumb brushed over the left visor he welded shut before donning it. Stepping outside his room, Wolfe mentally made one more count of his gear and made sure he didn't leave anything behind.

Shouldering his glaive, Wolfe walked down the corridor, past the adjacent rooms. The halls were dimly light by the lanterns that adorned the walls. The sounds of his boots and the paws of Nacht walking on the wooden floor reached his ears. He wasn't sure if the other rooms on his floor were even occupied. Descending the stairway each step was met with the creaking of the wooden floorboard. The fireplace of the great hall was still alight as the owner of the tavern no doubt fed it with wood overnight.

His gaze swept towards the reception, meeting the eyes of the landlord. The man involuntarily winced, betraying his discomfort. Wolfe simply ignored the man's plight and continued his way.

"T-that'll be fifty Lien, s-sir." The smaller man stammered.

Wolfe nodded and gave him the amount he requested.

"Y-your f-friends already left," he informed him now trying to avoid maintaining eye contact. "They are w-waiting for you i-in front of the town gate."

"Thank you" Wolfe replied and made for his leave. Opening the door he was ready to step out of the tavern when the voice of the owner drew his attention once more.

"A-and don't come back!" It would seem the man found some courage to apply some force to his demand, instead of squeaking it out.

Wolfe turned, his right eye observing the man for only a brief moment which was enough for him to freeze up and sweat started to run down his temple.

Without a word, he walked through the portal. Wolfe made his towards the stables, paying the stable master to shelter the horse, which he purchased in Mistral, for a few days more. Saying his goodbye's to his steed, he retrieved the satchel the animal carried during their travels. Wolfe reached into it, procuring a dark green rain cloak which wore over his usual attire to shield him from the rain.

His boots sunk into the muddy road that led up to the gate of the town. The heavy iron doors opened inward, opened for those who traveled on the dangerous roads out in the Grimmlands. Cold rain pattered against his cloak and defend any other sounds around him. The two guards standing sentry simply waved him through, their grim visages holding looks of contempt. A few more guards manned the walls keeping an outlook for Bandits and Grimm. Wolfe paid them no mind as they gave him a wider berth. Their hands firmly rested on the hilts of their swords. When of them decided to spit in front of him, Nacht let out a growl, favoring the man with his sharp fangs. At the sight of Nacht's angry visage, the guard took two involuntary steps back, glaring at the wolf and its owner.

When Wolfe stepped outside the safety of the town's walls the sudden sound of a horn snapped his attention to his right. When he met Roman's eyes, the man continued to honk a few more times until Wolfe made his way towards their truck. The vehicle itself was almost the same as those the White Fang used. But the one Roman was using was an older model. Rust ate its way along its body. There was no doubt in his mind that Torchwick could afford a truck in better condition. Neopolitan who occupied the passenger seat looked unamused regarding Torchwick's antics but judging from her expression, he deduced that this was a rather common occurrence from the thief in white.

"Good morning, Puppy!" How this man could be in such a good mood, Wolfe did not know. "You're late."

"We didn't agree on a time for our meeting," Wolfe stated.

Roman searched his memories from the previous night.

"It would seem so," he agreed. "Come on, get in the back, chop-chop. Time is money and you know what they say. So let's not waste any more than we already have."

When he looked towards Neopolitan, Wolfe noticed her hardened gaze. She regarded him with a mix of contempt and curiosity. Roman most likely told her what he was. Paying the girl no further attention he made sure Nacht jumped into the back of the truck first before entering the large space himself. Moving towards the back Wolfe sat down, leaning his back against the large wooden boxes. Nacht laid his head on his thigh while he ran his hand through his companion's fur. Wolfe frowned when a whiff of tobacco reached his nostrils.

"We'll be on the road for a few hours." Torchwick's muffled voice informed him through the divider that separated the storage space and the driver's cabin. "And keep your paws off of my cigars!"

At least it explained the smell, not that it made it any better. The truck promptly came to life, marking the beginning of their journey towards Doctor Merlot's facility. With his eye peering out, he observed how the walls of the town became smaller until their existence was obscured entirely with each passing kilometer they traveled further south. The back of his armored head met the solid surface of the wooden box leaned on. With each passing second his eyelids grew heavier. Soon enough darkness embraced him once more.


"Wolfe!"

"Please stop!"

"Wolfe, please help us!

"Stop! It hurts."

"No!"

"Wolfe!"

His eyes shot open, gasping for air, he felt sweat running down his face. Panic and fear were hidden behind his helmet. He felt both his hands shake from what he experienced, his chest rising and falling. A nightmare. He hadn't had one since the early days in the SDC mines. It was his hope that they would never return.

Those voices pleading and screaming out his name, Wolfe knew all too well. There was no mistake to whom they belonged to.

Mom.

Mai.

Their terrified screams were now carved into his memory. Sounds he never wanted to her again for it chilled him to the bone. Trying to calm his nerves he let out a shuddering sigh, letting his hand hang for a moment. He eased Nacht's concern for him as his companion whimpered in response to his distress.

Taking in his surroundings, Wolfe remembered his surroundings. The heavy rain decreased to a drizzle while a heavy fog embraced their vehicle. Wolfe noticed that they came to a complete stop, his neck ached from where he rested, the position in which he slept not doing him any favors.

"Why have stopped?" He asked through their divider, receiving no answer.

"Torchwick!" His voice boomed inside of their truck. Wolfe heard the man cursing out his name from the front.

"Finally awake, Puppy?" The thief questioned. "We arrived." There was an uncomfortable pause for a few seconds. "And you're not going to like it."

Wolfe winced when he stood up from his resting place. He slept on worse surfaces but he would never get used to them.

As they all disembarked from the truck, Wolfe's gaze wandered to Roman's referred object of interest. Their footwear met hideous brown of mud, the amorphous liquid coating them with every step they took.

"Great," Roman said in irritation looking at his dark-brown shoes.

The foundations of the town's walls were set deep into the ground. Unlike any he had seen before, they consisted of rough, black stone, most likely dredged from the nearby marshes that covered the region. Moos and weeds covered the outer side, providing a more natural look. Large steel pikes protruded from them, in an effort to kill attacking Grimm hordes, should they decide to throw themselves against the fortifications. Watchtowers were raised every fifteen meters or so to give their defenders a higher vantage point in the face of an attack. Next to the entrance hung a sign which read, 'Welcome To Shari' which was meticulously cared for.

But his main concern was right in front of him. The thing that had troubled Roman. And he would have to agree with the thief that what he was seeing was quite upsetting. The heavy iron doors that could withstand the onslaught of a Grimm horde were heavily damaged. Its hinges almost ripped out of the stone walls. The top half of the doors themselves were bent inward, deep and heavy gashes and scratches littered the metal surface. Wolfe feared that whatever tried to forcefully gain entrance almost succeeded if the pressure continued longer. Their state gave Wolfe worry, something with unnatural strength and size could only accomplish such a feat. Bandits were certainly not responsible for it. Inspecting the walls once more he found deep indentations as if something must have climbed the high walls to get on the other side.

"Do you hear that?" He asked straining his ears.

Roman and Neopolitan seemed to concentrate on their hearing while they too were cautious of the sight that presented itself to them.

"I don't hear anything." Roman finally said, keeping a watchful eye on their surroundings while Neopolitan shook her head.

"Exactly," Wolfe stated. "It's quiet. Too quiet for my tastes." Every sound a lively town should have was missing.

No screaming.

No whimpering.

No talking.

No footsteps.

No grunting pigs.

No lowing cattle.

No barking dogs.

No neighing horses

Even the chirping birds were absent.

Everything was dead silent as if some great malevolent force gripped around the town's throat, trying to suffocate its very existence. The only evidence of the existing village was its walls and buildings. Death came to Shari and they now bore witness to the aftermath.

While the gates were heavily damaged and were opened upon closer inspection. But only so much for a single person to fit through. Wolfe was the first to press his body through the immense iron portal, followed closely by Nacht, Roman, and Neopolitan.

The sight that met them on the other side was even more troubling. The houses were all damaged beyond repair and were no bigger than the wall's watchtowers. The glass from every window was shattered, deep and heavy gashes littered the stone walls of all buildings as if someone lashed out with a large blade. The doors to the townsfolk homes were broken down as something or someone tried to gain entrance to their homes. Blood covered the outside of the once beautiful Mistral architecture, mostly in frenzied splatters.

Swords, spears, halberds, bows, rifles, and guns were littered across the towns many muddy roads, seemingly abandoned by their owners. No sane person living out in the Grimmlands would leave their weapons behind. There was evidence of battle as bullet holes and arrows littered the walls of the buildings. Empty bullet shells and bolts lay scattered across the area.

Large patches of blood mixed themselves with the mud, the ground painted red by the carnage that happened. The heavy stench of iron met their nostrils. So much blood. With each step they took the fog revealed greater damage to the buildings. But there were no bodies in sight. It was as if the entire populace was swallowed whole.

Everywhere he looked, Wolfe found drag marks. Whatever attacked them took their carcasses with it. They passed bright red purse buried by the brown muck. Roman bowed down and picked it up, observing its contents.

"Looting the dead now, are we?" Wolfe voiced his misgivings.

"Careful what you say next, Puppy," Torchwick snapped at him with narrowed eyes. "Some lost their tongue for far less. I'm a professional, not some common street rat from Vacuo. For your sake, I suggest you don't compare me to vermin again."

Sneering his last sentence he discarded it to the side, leaving it in the dirt. Wolfe simply looked on as the man walked further into the town. Neopolitan threw him a disapproving glare, finding no humor in his accusations towards her partner. She crossed her arms as she scrutinized him.

Breaking their small staring contest, Wolfe made his way to follow the path Roman took, the silence that reigned upon them appeared so otherworldly, alien even. He did not know how to best describe it but he dreaded to think of what has transpired in this gods-forsaken village.

Passing the local market place Wolfe took note of the destruction that came to pass through it. Vegetables, fruits, and various meats lay strewn across the plaza, soiled by mud and the effects of Mistrals weather. The stand themselves were broken as if a great wrecking ball plowed them to pieces. The carts with which wares were transported lay abandoned.

The color cyan caught his eye. It was a stroller, abandoned in the mud. Large amounts of blood stained the inside of the carriage. He couldn't take his eye off of it. It wasn't right he thought bitterly. But there was nothing he could do now. It was a sight he always dreaded when traveling the Grimmlands.

Black smoke rose from one of the houses not far from the market. Its former wooden frames burned to charcoal and its once sturdy stone walls crumbled. Nothing but embers and a reminder of its existence remained. The smell of burnt flesh reached his nose, upon closer inspection, Wolfe spotted the charred hand sticking out of the rubble of the collapsed house. A glint of red caught his eye next to his boot, Wolfe carefully observed the sand-like substance.

"Fire Dust," he concluded. "Someone must have misfired and brought the building down."

They made sure to distance themselves from the area, should any more volatile traces of Dust be strewn around. The last thing they needed was to be caught in an explosion of the elements.

He traveled through many villages that fell victim to the onslaught of the Grimm out in the far reaches who met the fate. Wolfe had to confess that the sight never got any easier, the knowledge that so many lives met their gruesome end weighed on his mind, even if most of Remnant despised him for what he was.

Slowly, cautiously they trudged through the fog. Wolfe and Neo soon caught up to Roman, who stood in front of the Town Hall. Its construction bearing similarities to the one that stood in his own village. What was supposed the be the sturdiest building in all of the village, its protective walls which offered shelter to the citizens, was nothing more than a stark reminder of days past. The timber gates were torn out from the hinges that attached them to the large building, the large crater on the opposite end of the hallway confirmed that whatever visited the town sought its own improvised entrance. And judging by the size of the makeshift point of entry, Wolfe would rather not find out what plowed through it. The inside was in shambles, blood stained the wooden floor and the stone walls. And there was so much blood. So much. It would seem that the people sought refuge within these halls from whatever rampaged through the streets. A place that was considered a safe haven from Grimm and Bandit attacks. But instead, they were lambs led to the slaughter.

"We were supposed to meet my informant here." Roman's frustration seemed to grow the more they witnessed, his grip tightening around his cane.

"I have a strong feeling that he shared whatever fate was visited upon the village," Wolfe mused darkly.

"Then we shouldn't linger any longer," Roman said with equal emotion. "I'll take a look inside. Maybe he's left something useful behind. You two stay here." Roman instructed, setting foot inside the ruined town hall.

Neo and Wolfe silently observed their surroundings when something gave him pause. His sharp instincts screaming at him. They were being watched. But where were they? With subtle movements of his helmet, he glanced at each building. Neopolitan apparently feeling the same eyes locking onto her.

In the first story of the nearest house, Wolfe noticed movement. It was quick but he caught it nonetheless. Signaling to the girl next to him they moved away from the hall, circling back towards the building in question. He was the first to enter, searching for the flight of stairs. Pots of plants lay shattered on the grounds, bookshelves torn from the walls. It was as if the fury of nature's forces raged on the inside of the house. Cautiously they made their way up, listening for sounds not their own, his glaive ready to carve through whatever might throw itself at them. When small thuds reached his ears, Wolfe slowly continued his advance, coming to a stop next to one of the doors, Neo taking her position next to him, retrieved a slender blade out of her parasol.

With one blinding kick, Wolfe destroyed the door, hindering their advance. Standing inside the other room, their eyes scanned every last corner, finding it unoccupied. Stuffed animals, toys, and children's books lay strewn across the floor.

Wolfe's eyes wandered towards the bed, he grabbed the frame and swiftly tossed it toward the other side of the room. Instantly two figures shot up and backed away the corner. Both of them were young boys. The older of two was human, brown hair, blue eyes, a dark complexion, and fourteen years of age. He productively stood in front of the younger one who sought refuge behind him. The younger was a Faunus with blonde hair, blue eyes, a fair complexion, and most likely ten years old. His most notable feature was two horns protruding from the top of his head.

While the oldest stood defiantly, fear was written within their eyes. The clothes they wore were dirty and a small hue of grime coated their skin.

Upon seeing the young boys, Wolfe and Neo lowered their weapons. He crouched down on one knee, making him less threatening. He wasn't sure how much success he would have.

"We're not going to hurt you," he told them, holding out a hand. "I'm Wolfe, this," he gestured towards the girl. "is Neo. What are your names?"

"My name's Fujin," the oldest answered him, still wary of their presence.

"I'm Kobayashi," the youngest said with a small voice.

"Nice to meet you two," He tried to put them more at ease as an older brother would. Wolfe wasn't sure if it was working but he did so nevertheless.

"Can you tell me what happened here? Where are your parents?" Wolfe came to regret the questions as tears started tor from in the eyes of both boys. But they had to know of what had transpired in Shari.

"G-grimm." Kobayashi managed to choke out between his sobs, the older not fairing much better. But it was all they needed to hear.

"Come on you two," Wolfe beckoned them to follow him and Neo. "We will get you out of here, okay?"

"Are you Huntsmen?" Fujin asked, calming down a bit. Wolfe looked towards Neo for a brief moment.

"Yes," He lied, his gaze wandering back to the boys. "Yes, we are."

Backing out of the corner, the two children accepted his words, coming to his side, and started to follow him outside of the house they hid in. They sought cover behind him when they saw Nacht waiting in front of the broken door.

"Don't worry. Nacht won't do anything to you." Wolfe passed the wolf petting him on the head. Still, wary of the wolf the boys continued down the path Wolfe took back towards the town hall.

"I thought I told you two to stay put." The voice of Roman emerged out of the great ruined building, taking note of the company they brought with them, and decided to not further verbalize his protest.

"Did you find anything?" Wolfe inquired the man whose eyes still passed between the two kids.

"I have," Roman answered "A location for a hidden entrance. It's rather vague… but it's all we've got at this point."

"We need to get these kids to safety first," Wolfe stated, looking at the boys once more.

"We are hours away from the next village," Roman countered. "We don't have time for that. Not when we're so close from Merlot's laboratories."

At the mention of the maddened scientists, the boy's fear grew, the populace near his facilities were mostly exploited for his debased experiments. Wolfe glanced over to Nacht. It was not the best solution for this newest development but he had no better option. His head wandered to the south gate, barely visible by the fog.

"The other gate is still intact," Wolfe commented. "Since we can't use your truck further down the road due to the marshes you should get it here. The boys will take shelter in it while we make our way out into the Grimmlands."

"We can't just leave two kids undefended in a village that suffered an attack like this," Roman said.

"They won't be undefended," Wolfe countered. "Nacht's going to stay here and keep an eye on them."

"You can't be serious?" Roman questioned incredulously. "Look around you. Your mutt can't possibly hold its own against whatever came through here."

"Nacht is not some lap dog, Torchwick." Wolfe's tone took a firmer note. He trusted in Nacht's ability to keep the kids safe should the need arise. "Many Huntsmen have met their end between his teeth. The incompetence your kind displays, makes me question the Academies current training program and your actual usefulness."

"Don't insult me, Puppy," Roman's eyes shone with fury. "There's a reason I don't associate with them."

"So it would seem," Wolfe hummed, ignoring the man's outrage. "Besides, I doubt that whatever came through here will be back any time soon."

"And how can you be so certain of that?" Torchwick demanded to know. "Don't tell me you forgot to mention that you're a clairvoyant now too."

"Maybe if you opened your eyes to your surroundings you might come to the same conclusion," he said pointing towards the south gate. "Judging by the drag marks in the mud and the blood on the walls, the bodies were hauled over to the other side. Now I don't know about you but whatever dragged hundreds of bodies away is unlikely to show its face."

Roman frowned at the red-painted part of the black wall, coming to the same conclusion.

"Fine," He conceded. "I'll bring the truck around. Make sure those gates are opened."

Wolfe and Neo watched as Roman departed back towards the ruined state of the northern gate, making good of his words. The girl smaller than him, might not be able to voice her misgivings she had for him about how he conversed with the thief, but her eyes said all he needed to know. Turning, Wolfe made for the southern gate, removing the heavy locks and opened the heavy wooden doors.

Minutes passed before he heard the inner workings of a vehicle's engine and Torchwick's truck rounded around the corner of the wall, its headlights barely penetrating the fog that surrounded them. He came to a stop, hidden between an alleyway, within the village's boundary.

"Get in you two," Wolfe addresses the two kids. "We'll be back as soon as we can. Nacht," he gestured towards the black wolf, his tail wagged at the mention of his name. "will protect you, so you don't have to worry. Don't go out of the truck. Don't make any loud noises, okay? Can you do that for me?"

The boys nodded to his question and seated themselves at the far end of the vehicle, their backs leaning against the boxes of cigars.

"Good," he said, closing the pieces of cloth at the back.

"Are you done playing babysitter?" Roman questioned him.

"Not since I still have to endure your presence," Wolfe quipped to which the thief huffed a short and contemptuous laugh.

Before Torchwick could voice anymore of his misgivings mud was sent flying in both of their direction, the brown filth simply colliding against Wolfe's chest plate and Roman's white suit. Both men dumbly stared at the substance that now stained their attire, their eyes cast down towards Neo, who glared at them, finding their petty squabbles more annoying as time went on.

"You know, I liked this suit," Roman complained while wiping the muck off of his white fabric. As Neo was about to kick another round with her heel the man threw his hands up in mock surrender. "Alright, alright." He said, not wanting to give her any further excuse.

Her withering glare reached Wolfe who simply removed the majority of mud not much caring for the rather childish way of breaking their little squabble. But she did break it which he was somewhat thankful for. Wolfe found the thief's behavior to be taxing and he would prefer it if Roman kept his disdain for him under a tighter leash. But then again most people were openly hostile towards him. He wasn't sure why he expected it to be different this time.

After they left Shari through the southern gate, closing its portal once more, they continued their journey on foot. Because of the marshes further ahead they had to leave the truck behind, Torchwick not wanting to trouble himself should his vehicle get stuck in the clouded waters of Mistral's region to the south.

They followed the trail road for thirty minutes, lush green grass and richly colored trees on either side before it was submerged by muddied and dark pools. The patches of grass within darkened yellowish and the once breathtaking trees looked sickly and gnarled.

Rotten.

Dead.

But that was not the most disturbing part of their appearance. And yet Wolfe wished it were. With nooses, legless figures hung from the branches of the decaying trees. These figures were made out of twigs and sticks which were held together by strings and moose. Their sinister presence giving the swamp a more eerie and unnatural feeling.

"Their wards," Roman explained his unspoken question. "To supposedly keep the evil spirits away from the village and inside of the swamp."

Wolfe never was the superstitious type. But man-like apparitions almost seemed to give a malevolent aura.

When he looked closer their wooden faces seemed locked into a never-ending, mocking smile. The empty eye sockets daring any traveler to continue their path.

"You seem to know a lot about these parts and Shari," Wolfe said absentmindedly.

"More than I would like." He replied sourly, his eyes growing distant as he peered into the swamp.

"Meaning?"

Roman looked Wolfe over, thinking his next words over. He grabbed another cigar from his pocket, lighting it.

"After the Kingdom's military left years ago after finishing their raid," He interrupted himself, taking one long drag, exhaling a plume of smoke. "People started going missing… never to be seen again."

"People go missing all the time in the Grimmlands," Wolfe stated.

"True," Roman canted his head. "But the people started to think that some kind of evil spirit still remained… And then the sacrifices began."

"Sacrifices?" Wolfe could hear the disbelief in his voice.

"It started almost over a decade ago," He said, gesturing to their right. "Somewhere in that direction there is a jetty… from there they would throw babies into the water… sometimes one… sometimes two, three, four. All to appease some kind of 'evil spirit' someone pulled out of their ass. Some good they did them now."

He observed his cigar before flicking it into the murky waters, his frustration open for all to see.

"Did Mistral know?" Wolfe questioned.

"Dunno," Roman shrugged. "Even if they did, they probably had more pressing matters to attend to. As always." He added bitterly.

Wolfe peered out into the swamp again. The passage itself was poorly maintained after Atlas' and Mistrals' military raids on Merlot's facility. Wolfe wondered how much Mother Nature had a hand in reclaiming this particular road. Or was it perhaps even designed by the Kingdom's authorities to persuade prying eyes from entering the madman's laboratories? Who could really say at this point? Not that it mattered at any rate.

The trio came to a stop in front of the murky waters examining their surroundings. The otherwise still surface was disturbed by the rain coming down upon it. Marshes in Mistral were a dangerous place, harboring venomous animals and aquatic Grimm like the giant toad-like Zoat's. They, by all right, were large hideous creatures, waiting for an opportune moment underneath the surface to strike unsuspecting travelers. With their massive tongues, they would ensnare their prey, dragging them into their ultimate demise. The Zoat's were one of the few Grimm species that did not possess any bone-like protective layer. Their Alpha's on the other hand were a different story.

But Zoat's were most likely the least dangerous Grimm native to the swamps of Mistral. According to the Grimm-Cyclopedia, the Unagon were Grimm that closely resembled eel's and were bigger than their animal counterparts. Lean, ugly, and lethal abominations that could grow longer than any human. With wide, heavy jaws set into a protruding snout, they consumed any who dared wander too deep into the swamps. A stiff, serrated dorsal fin sported the Unagon's length. These Grimm hunted in packs, paralyzing their prey with their venom.

But then again, the Grimm were the least of their worries. For him at least and he was thankful that he did not have to engage these horrid aberrations. The only thing he would have to look out for were poisonous snakes. Not wanting to waste any more precious daylight, Wolfe set his foot into the waters, the dark liquid reaching up underneath his knee, and continued towards their destination.

"Can't we find something, I dunno… dryer?" Roman frowned as he watched Wolfe persist on his advance. "I just bought these new shoes and I'd hate to ruin them."

"The ones you stole you mean?" Wolfe asked eyeing them. They were in pristine condition to his amazement.

"Don't think so low of me, Puppy." Roman favored him with a cheeky smile. "The man was a… charitable sort you might say."

"Of course he was." He turned to continue.

"I really don't want to have to ruin them in this swamp." Torchwick insisted for them to find an alternative route.

"I fail to see how that is any of my concern," Wolfe answered without looking back.

"Today's youth," he huffed irritated. "No appreciation for the finer things in life."

He looked over towards his smaller companion to which Neo raised a questioning eyebrow.

"Ladies first," he offered with a slight bow.

The smaller woman simply rolled her eyes, a smirk adorning her face and with the click of a button, she opened her parasol. The soft winds carrying her above the disgusting sludge. Roman looked after, dumbfounded. He mumbled a few choice words to himself before, he too, entered the waters, following Wolfe's lead.

Wolfe observed Neopolitan glide past him as she sent a wink and a blow-kiss in his direction. He did know how she managed to evade the waters he and Torchwick had to trudge through. It seemed as if the girl was as light as a feather. Was it her semblance perhaps? Her evident amusement for their current muddy predicament aside, the two men resumed their advance.

For approximately two hours finally arrived at their destination after Roman and Wolfe slogged their way through the marshes while Neopolitan let her body be carried by the winds, not touching the mud even once. Every now and then she set herself down onto one of the branches belonging to the many dead trees whose roots swallowed deep within the dark waters. They completed their journey in silence as they focused on their surroundings. Many times his boot would find obstacles in his way and Wolfe couldn't help but think of gnawed and brown bones of the sacrificed children. He tried to banish the thought but it always came back.

Wolfe's gazed upon Merlots' abandoned facility and by its poor condition, He surmised that no human visited this place in years, perhaps one or two decades. The front of the building itself was of simple design as one might find any regular industrial complex in Mantle. The structural decay was already visible on the outside. Its once smooth concrete walls already showed signs of disrepair that were caused by the forces of nature and were covered in vines and all manners of weeds. The largest part, however, most likely lay beyond the large mountain that made itself visible to them the more the surrounding fog cleared with every step they took. The underbelly and their subsequent goal, no doubt, lay deeper within the labyrinthine corridors.

A barbed wired fence surrounded the perimeter, making it harder to enter the property. Judging by the warning signs, Wolfe concluded that the fence was erected by the combined efforts of the Mistral and Atlas militaries. A small inconvenience, but this was not their way inside. What was a problem was the fact that the main entrance of the facility had been collapsed by military-grade explosives. Looks like the Kingdoms really did not want anyone to come snooping.

Even now the silence that permeated the area unnerved him to a great degree. As if even Mistral's wildlife abandoned the area in a kilometer wide radius. If Wolfe did not know any better he might have guessed to be in one of the many horror stories he read. It surely had the right atmosphere. He just hoped that that would not be the case. But judging by his fortune he might as well just jinxed their luck. A sudden flare of regret shot through his mind, but it was too late to turn back now.

"Ugly waste of space isn't it?" Roman said with a whistle, observing the collapsed entrance. "You always bring me to the nicest places."

"I don't remember inviting you." Wolfe was not in the mood for Torchwick's sarcastic quips.

"No, you didn't" Roman conceded, his hands resting on his cane. "But we could go out and have a nice chat afterward, just the both of us. What do you say?"

"Not a snowball's chance in hell," Wolfe replied, unsure of Torchwick's intentions. "I already feel my synapses committing suicide one by one the more I have to hear you speak."

"Rude." Roman's attention swept towards the facility. "You would think a scientist of Doctor Merlot's caliber would have some appreciation for design."

While Roman and Neopolitan frowned at the unsavory sight of their quarry, Wolfe could still sense their apprehension. It would seem that they too steeled their nerves.

"No," Wolfe simply answered him. "Degenerates like him, hide behind an innocuous front as to not draw too much attention from the Kingdoms. A perfect and unsuspecting façade when viewed by an outsider."

Roman hummed in agreement, sharing a brief look with his partner. Opening his scroll Torchwick looked over the notes his contact left behind before their disappearance.

"According to his notes, there should be a secret entrance, hidden behind a small valley located on the eastern mountainside." He said, following the instructions on his scroll, Neopolitan not straying far from his side. "I for one don't want to spend another second longer than necessary."

Wolfe couldn't argue with the thief, sparing one last look at the building before following the path Roman took.

Finding a path through the sickly yellowish trees, they found the small valley they were looking for. It was large enough so one person at a time could pass through it. Wolfe was the first the enter the somewhat claustrophobic pathway. Fighting in this tight space was out of the question, rendering his glaive useless.

"You know," Torchwick grunted, pressing his body against the rocks. "I was wondering. Since we're so good friends, partners in crime and all that. You never told us your name. Your last name that is."

"Friends?" Wolfe almost sounded insulted.

"Don't you avoid the question, Puppy."

"I know," Wolfe answered him. "And I like to keep it that way."

"And why is that?"

"Names hold power," Wolfe responded after a moment of silence between them. "And I'm not going to give you something to hold over me."

"Doesn't seem fair," Torchwick countered. "You know my last name."

"Do I, Torchwick?" Roman paused, staring into the lone accusing blue eye of Wolfe. A frown adorned the thief's face. "Do I truly know your last name?"

"Careful, Puppy," Torchwick advised through a strained smile. "Make sure your paws tread where they're supposed to. We wouldn't want to slip, now would we?"

A tense moment passed between the group as none of them moved. Each one of them tightened their grip around their respective weapons.

"You best make sure you don't make idle threats, thief." Wolfe eventually said, turning to continue.

"Besides," Wolfe added, gesturing towards Neo who in turn shot him a sharp glare. "Never got to know her name either."

"Point taken," Roman murmured.

After a short amount of time, they reached an opening where a hidden metal door greeted them. Or rather there used to be a metal door. The metal portal laid on the ground in front of them as it was ripped out of its frame and there was a huge opening in its stead. The walls were bent outward, evidence of something large plowing its way out from the inside. Wolfe peered inside but the only thing that greeted him was darkness. The sun only providing little to no light. His instincts were screaming at him to turn around. To not set foot inside of Merlots facility. Were he in any other situation, Wolfe would have listened to his gut feeling. He looked at the door again. Could this be the same thing that attacked Shari? Something told him he did not want to find out.

"Charming," Roman commented. Wolfe saw the nervousness and apprehension in him and Neopolitan as well. Something told him that they knew more than they were letting on.

Setting his bag aside, Wolfe procured a torch and lit it with fire dust. Roman came to a stop next to pulling out his scroll and turned on the flashlight on his device, Neo following in his actions.

"You do realize that your scroll can give you light as well, right?" His tone was mocking.

"I'm well aware," Wolfe answered evenly, giving him a sideways glance. "But I can't use my scroll as a weapon now can I?"

"Haven't thought of that to be honest," The thief raised his one visible eyebrow.

Wolfe held the flame of his torch inside the hallway. Even with his new light source, it did little to penetrate the darkness. There was something unnatural about it.

"Let's get this over with," Wolfe muttered.

"Something we can finally agree on," Roman said. He and Neopolitan were the first to step inside. He followed after them, their bodies being swallowed by the perpetual dark. Even the temperature changed the deeper they traveled. He noticed it early on thanks to the small cloud of mist he exhaled. It was getting colder. So cold in fact that they encountered frost on their way. When Wolfe stepped into a frozen puddle of blood, the hardened surface sprung into a myriad of pieces, drawing his attention to the ground. That's when he also noticed the bloody drag marks going in the direction they were currently walking towards. He questioned for how long the blood stained the hallway.

They even found evidence of the military's intervention as, upon closer inspection, the walls were littered with bullet holes and shell casings lay abandoned on the cold hard floor.

The deeper they entered the more it seemed as if the darkness wanted to consume them. Its dark tendrils reaching out beckoning them, taunting them to embrace the forgotten ethereal coldness of the facility. Wolfe's instincts were on high alert, his ears straining to listen to even the most minute sound. But the only sound that reached his ears were their footfalls that echoed off of the frozen ground and their breathing. He tried to focus his eyes on the darkness beyond and failed to make out any significant details.

Suddenly the hairs on his neck stood up.

His breathing stopped.

His blood ran cold.

Wolfe knew this feeling all too well.

They were being watched.

It followed them.

Beyond the borders of the dark, they were being observed.

But it wasn't like anything he had felt before.

He felt as if a predator was stalking its prey.

There was nothing natural about this sudden flare of alarm.

The cold grew even colder.

It was as if someone was breathing down on him. Their breath warm and foul.

Someone – something - was approaching them from behind.

At an alarming rate.

He did not see them.

He did not hear them.

But he knew.

Wolfe spun around, holding his glaive defensively in his right hand while raising the torch in his left. Thank Oum for his honed instincts. He would meet their pursuer head-on.

But nothing came. The reward for his alarmed state was the silent dark they have grown used to since they entered this accursed building. For a few seconds, he just listened trying to find their would-be attacker.

Nothing.

Sparing a glance behind him, Wolfe saw that Torchwick and Neopolitan unsheathed their weapons also alarmed by something.

At least he wasn't starting to imagine things. After a few tense moments, Wolfe wordlessly signaled them to advance. The hallways seemed to be endless, stretching with every step they took. The three of them did not stray far from one another as they pressed forward until they found the generator room.

A blessing perhaps? Or maybe Roman knew which way to take thanks to the map of the interior on his scroll. Most likely left behind by his informant.

When they entered the generator room Wolfe and Neopolitan trained their eyes at the entrance while Torchwick fumbled with the machinery and consoles. They did not pull their eyes from the portal from which they entered. The darkness beyond trying to push back the flames of his torch and the light of Neo's scroll. Something waited on the other side and Wolfe was in no rush to face whatever it was.

"Come on you piece of shit," Roman cursed as he tried to activate the power to the facility, hitting the side of its casing.

"Come on, come on."

He tensed and his jaw clenched as he felt the malicious presence drew closer to them. Just as his instincts warned him from an incoming force the generators were brought back to life and the lights came back on.

"Haha!" The thief exclaimed, quickly composing himself after his outburst. They stayed still for a few seconds longer listening for any evidence of their mysterious pursuer from the hallway. Wolfe noticed that the presence retreated with a frightening speed as soon as the lights came back to life. While he did lower his weapon his senses stayed sharp.

It was a bit of a wonder that this building still had electricity even after years of abandonment and disrepair. He supposed that scientific facilities had were equipped with reliable technology. But he would not question that particular convenience for he was thankful for it. The darkness that encroached and reached out to them unsettled him.

"Looks like we had nothing to worry about after all." Wolfe doubted that Torchwick believed his own words. He shook his head. There was no point in arguing with the thief.

"How far are we from Merlot's private terminal?" He questioned him.

"Not far," Roman said, taking another look at the map on his scroll. "We should find the old bastard's office is a few more halls to our right and we should be there."

"Then let's get going," Wolfe looked outside the hall, finding it empty safe for the blood and shell casings. "I don't want to be here when the generators decide to die."

"Don't jinx it, Puppy," Roman muttered in a low voice, not daring to draw any unwanted eyes to him. A bit too late for that, Wolfe thought.

Now that their path was clear, he noticed large and deep gashes in the metal walls. These grizzly reminders of the past were denied to their eyes within the darkness that lingered not too long ago. The same as those they saw in the village of Shari. Was it one of Merlot's twisted experiments that somehow found its way out? He couldn't say nor did he want to find out. But if it was the case then the Mistral's and Atlas' military efforts to rid the world of the madman's creations weren't as effective as they claimed them to be. A shiver went down his spine at the thought.

Soon enough they found the room they were looking for. It was kind of hard to miss in all honesty. While the mad scientist did not care for the aesthetics of his buildings he most certainly did care for those in his private office. Two large wooden doors with the engravings of various Grimm stood before them, its entrance open. It was weird. The room seemed untouched. While there was evidence that the Kingdom's military was inside of the building. This particular section remained abandoned. The last person to have laid eyes in this room was most likely Merlot himself. A myriad of monitors was dispensed by arms in front of his half-round desk made of glass. Shelves with books covered the walls, their contents a mystery thanks to all of the frosts that settled against the covers, obscuring its titles. A repository of knowledge.

Knowledge that would hopefully help suppress the effects of his gene. Or so he hoped. The answers he sought were not in some pages of a book. The Date that was of interest was most likely saved in his terminal. It is good that Merlot or the Kingdoms' military destroyed the computer. For reasons unclear. One would think that the information stored in it, would be destroyed or safeguarded.

Wolfe took in his surroundings finding nothing particular of note except for his terminal. It was what they came here for. Slowly they made their way towards the large desk, its chair nocked to the ground. His gaze wandered the monitors. All were black. He searched for the computer turning the power back on, most likely for the first time in years. All monitors, save for a few, were brought back to life and a single request was asked from. A password. Something he did not have, nor the patience to find out.

Luckily for them, Watts gave him an external hard drive, containing something of the doctor's own creation. According to Watts, it should bypass any of Merlots' outdated security measures. In all honesty, Wolfe drowned Watts's explanation out, halfway through it. In his younger years, he was taught how to read and write by a man named Klein. His mother taught him how to hunt, fish, cook, clean, and look after himself. Wolfe taught himself how to fight. There was nothing more he needed to learn. At least that was what he thought of the matter. The only thing he needed to know was that he had to connect the hard drive with the terminal. And so he did.

He watched the screen as a variety of attempts at unlocking the passcode flickered across the screen. It took a few long seconds but it eventually did the trick. Everything Watts considered valuable or of interest was being downloaded. How much information could possibly fit in such a small device, he wondered.

Pictures, data, and documents opened and closed at a speed that was impossible for him to comprehend. Roman too observed the information greedily, trying to catch anything of note. Looking at the progress bar they still had a lot more to download.

Neopolitan however did not stand by idly. She took control of the mouse and keyboard and begun her own investigation on one of the free monitors. At first, Wolfe paid her no mind. But soon from the corner of his eye, he noticed her stop in her search. She found a file, codenamed 'The Widower'. It contained a picture of a woman. According to the information the woman was around twenty-four years old. Almost as old as Neopolitan if he had to guess. But what was surprising was that the woman in the picture almost looked like her. Instead of mismatched colors, she had brown hair and brown eyes. Those were the only difference. Further down, the file listed several other things. That she was a drug addict taken from the slums of Mistral, that she was heavily pregnant and that they gave her a number. Seven-Seven-One-Nine-Zero. Her name was redacted.

Merlot most certainly used Faunus slaves for his experiments there was no doubt in his mind. But drug addicts, be they human and Faunus too often found themselves in the clutches of these deranged people. Because no one, especially the Kingdoms authorities, would question the disappearance of its undesirables.

The eyes of the woman unnerved him. They seemed empty, devoid of any emotion. As if she was resigned to whatever fate awaited her in these godforsaken walls. But there was no further information on her. Not even what happened to her child. Neopolitan touched the screen as if to feel something that has been denied her whole life. Wolfe could have sworn that he saw sadness and longing in those mismatched eyes.

Before their eyes could meet, however, Wolfe turned to stare at the progress bar. Neo eyed him with suspicion, unsure if he saw the information on the screen. He would not question her on the matter. It was like he said. There were secrets best left buried.

Wolfe's eyes wandered the list of 'projects' Merlot had. While he recognized 'The Widower', project 'Medusa' located in Mountain Glenn caught his eye. It would seem that he would have to travel into the abandoned ruins of the city at some point. But it was something he would have to take care of in due time.

The progress bar filled up to a hundred percent and Wolfe disconnected the device from the terminal.

"My task here is done," Wolfe informed them. Roman sent a questioning look toward Neopolitan, receiving a nod.

"Looks like we're finished too," He said.

"Then let us not linger any longer than we have to." Wolfe groused.

"Took the words right out of my mouth." The thief agreed, eyeing his external hard drive. "I hope you're not into that sort of shit yourself."

"There are enough horrors in this world." Wolfe made his distaste in Torchwick's accusation clear. "I have no desire to add more to it. What do you take me for?"

Roman was about to answer when his instincts kicked in once more. And before they could assess their surroundings the metal wall burst open sending Wolfe and Neo flying across the room. Dazed by the violent intrusion, Wolfe could hear Torchwick scream out. The clash of weapons resonated. Through his bleary vision, Wolfe could see the thief's aura break as he was savagely thrown to the ground.

As soon as he found his bearings, whatever ambushed them, took Roman and retreated back into the large gaping hole in the metal wall. He grabbed the torch that was knocked out of his hand, bringing light to the darkness beyond. Behind it, a dark system of caverns greeted him. Neopolitan stood beside him, visibly shaken. It would seem that she caught a glimpse at whatever took her partner.

A scream emerged from deeper within. Wolfe recognized its owner. It was Roman. At the sound, Neo rushed into the dark the light of her scroll guiding her. This was less than ideal. But he gave his word that they would see this through together and followed the smaller woman. He never went against his words and he wouldn't start now.

His torch gave guided him towards his destination. His eyes noticing the walls and the ground were stained with blood. The amount of dried blood concerned him. But there was at least one comforting aspect to it. It couldn't come from the thief himself. Then the smell came. First, the stench of iron assaulted his nose as the amount of blood increased the deeper he wandered after Neo and Roman. Then the stench of human waste, sulfur, and decay added themselves into the mix. The reek stung his eyes and Wolfe had to blink a few tears away.

Wolfe entered a large cave. The mixture of smell intensified tenfold. Looking around he spotted Neopolitan hiding behind a pillar observing whatever lay ahead. He made his way beside her. The smaller woman only shared a short glance in his direction. Wolfe could have sworn that surprise flashed through her mismatched eyes. She probably thought that he abandoned them the first chance he got.

Wolfe followed her gaze and what he saw made his stomach churn. The entire cavern was filled with bodies. The carcasses of men, women, and children alike littered the ground. Their bodies twisted and contorted into angles he thought impossible before. Bones snapped and broken, protruding from their flesh. Limbs ripped from their sockets lay scattered like some overgrown child ripped them from their dolls. Ribcages were savaged and faces slashed and crushed beyond recognition. And blood. So much blood.

Wolfe has passed through many villages in the Grimmlands that fell victim to Grimm attacks. But the slaughter that he bore witness to made his stomach churn. Never in his darkest nightmares could he have imaged a sight so grizzly as the one before him. Now he knew what happened to the people of Shari. He had not eaten in hours and yet the sight made his stomach protest, wanting to empty it's nonexistent content. The smell did not make matters any better.

In its center stood the thing that took Roman, prayed upon them, and was responsible for the deaths of hundreds. Thanks to the small amount of sunlight shining through a hole from above. It would seem that they were closer to the surface than he originally thought. Torchwick lay unconscious among the dead. Wolfe could make out the rise and fall of his chest.

From what Wolfe could tell the abomination was part Grimm and part human. Its black lower body resembled that of a giant tarantula with four legs spreading out from its sides. The back of the abdomen was covered in the white bone-like structure the Grimm were known to have while the underbelly was unprotected. From its carapace protruded the human body that was infused with the Grimm part by the hips. From pitch black the color faded into various shades of gray until it blended into a deathly white. Scars and black veins covered the torso. The human part was clearly once a woman. Her bosom was covered in old, blood-stained bandages. Her lipless mouth was formed into a snarl that never seemed to have left its position. Dried blood trailed from the mouth towards the chest. Yellowish teeth, sharp as razors made themselves visible. The eyes were covered by the same bone-like structure that seemed to grow from the skull, covering the eyes with great horns ending at the top, making the Grimm more than three meters tall. Pitch black hair covering the head. An old rusted iron collar surrounded her neck. From the palm of her right hand to her elbow protruded a large and crude cleaver made of bone. The white skin stretching half of the blade, followed by more black veins. The jagged end of the cleaver was covered in dried blood. The fingers at the end were bent and broken in different directions due to the unnatural growth of bone. The left arm, however, was unchanged, safe for the fact that ten centimeters long bone claws protruded from the tip of her fingers and another collar surrounded her wrist, short remnants of a chain dangling from it. The most disturbing thing, however, was a large mouth, serrated with razor-sharp teeth, that crossed her stomach. The maw opened and closed as if desperately trying to consume what it could.

Judging by Neopolitan's state of terror, Wolfe took comfort, what little it actually provided, in the fact that he was not the only one horrified by the aberration. If Merlot wasn't dead already, Wolfe would make sure his existence would not stain Remnant then it had to. The abominations head twitched from side to side, searching for something. A weird clicking noise came from the beast's throat and smashed the skull on one of the dead with one of its spider legs, the contents spilling onto the rocks of the cave. The abomination pushed into the stomach pulling out the man's intestines and pushing them into the mouth across its stomach. With one of its mouths preoccupied, she grabbed the arm of the corpse and separated it with its cleaver-like arm, feasting upon the flesh.

"Revolting," That was a sight he would not forget so easily.

The head of the beast snapped up, her attention was drawn to something other. She emitted a low growl. With its Grimm-like spider body, she climbed the walls of the cave with arachnid-like grace and retreated into one of the adjacent caverns. As she retreated Wolfe caught the sight of two meathooks embedded into her shoulder blades.

Wolfe and Neo took in their surroundings before looking at each other, not wanting to be surprised by the Grimm hybrid. The was a pleading look in her eyes. Wolfe understood what she wanted to do and nodded his head.

Neopolitan did not waste another second and carefully made her way towards her unconscious partner who's white coat was now stained with grime and the blood of the butchery that surrounded them. Wolfe was directly behind, wanting to help get Roman out of here as quickly as possible.

Then he heard that awful clicking sound again. He knew the abomination was behind him. He turned, wanting to intercept the incoming strike with his glaive. But he was too late. The Grimm rushed him along the walls and with its cleaver struck Wolfe's head.

The force of the impact made him turn and go down on one knee as to not fall over. His newly acquired helmet was cut into two pieces, both halves landing in a puddle of blood. He really liked that helmet. But he had more pressing matters to attend to.

He was disoriented only for a brief moment, the clang as the bone-like structure met metal still rang in his ears. He felt something cold run down the left side of his face. He was most likely bleeding.

Wolfe turned and his eyes met the creature that ambushed him. Its lipless mouth formed into an angry snarl that crudely resembled a mocking smile. The beast's body shook as she stood in his presence, her displeasure growing. He did not know why but Wolfe got the feeling that the Grimm saw him as the abomination. The thought unsettled him.

Before he could take action the Grimm roared. Two voices bellowed from deep within, one deeper than the other, like razors scratching on a glass surface. His ears hurt as they were assaulted by the screeching wails.

The Grimm sprung into action, engaging Wolfe with its cleaver, the ground trembling with every step it took. Quickly recovering, he intercepted the heavy blows one by one. The savagery behind each strike that came down on him made his bones hurt with their impact. Stepping aside the blade flashed past his face, mere centimeters from splitting his head in two. Wolfe had no reprieve from coming close to his death as the claws of its left hand cut into his left arm leaving behind five deep cuts, ignoring the chainmail beneath. He bit through the pain, becoming accustomed to it, acknowledging his wound with a grunt.

Wolfe went on the offensive, charging the Grimm, lashing out with his glaive. His attacks were countered one by one until the thing backed away, scrambling up the cavern walls. When it reached the ceiling its head snapped towards him letting out another tormenting scream.

Reaching behind him, Wolfe pulled out the sawed-off shotgun and aimed it at the abomination and shot at it. The Grimm evaded his attack, leaving behind an icy surface with sharp icicles where the thing stood before. Wolfe loaded the next shell into its chamber and aimed the weapon once more, firing again. This time his intended target was hit by the discharge.

The Grimm howled in pain as shards of ice protruded its right shoulder and chest. Infuriated at its injury it jumped in front of him, lashing out with both its cleaver and hand. Holstering his weapon, Wolfe immediately went on the defensive again parrying each incoming blow.

Just as both bone-like structures came crashing down on him they were intercepted by Neapolitans slender blade, saving him from being crushed by the incoming forces. With one slash of her sword, Neo cut off part of the furthermost spider leg, making the Grimm scream in agony. The mouth across its stomach lending its voice in the cacophony of rage and pain.

Neopolitan held both her ears closed by the horrendous sound. Her gaze wandered towards Wolfe's wounds on his arm, taking note of the blood-soaked fabric of his olive coat. Their gaze met, her eyes widening slightly seeing the scar previously covered by his helmet.

Their attention was caught by the Grimm again as its upper body twitched from side to side uncontrollably, awkwardly charging the newest source of its ire. Wolfe was struck by one of its legs, sending him flying into a pile of dismembered corpses. Temporarily dazed from the strike, a wave of disgust washed over him as he stared into the dead eyes of the woman that lay next to him before giving chase to both of them.

Neopolitan expertly evaded each strike with backflip after backflip. Wolfe tried to come to her aid as the Grimm's claws slashed across her stomach. To his surprise, the image of Neo shattered into a myriad of pieces. It was confused as to where the smaller woman vanished. The Grimm violently turned its head side to side, trying to find its prey. And just as fast as Neo disappeared, she kicked the against the temple, the bone-like structure covering its eyes cracking under the impact.

With newly found fury the Grimm lashed out against with its cleaver leaving a large gash across the cavern walls as the blow almost found its mark. The handle of her parasol wrapped around the wrist of the Grimm's left hand, making her leap above its head once more. As Neo was about to attack once, the thing that was once human unexpectedly turned and struck her with its cleaver-like arm. The force of the impact sent Neo crashing into a nearby wall, her Aura flickering.

Before it could reach her Wolfe's glaive slashed across the Grimm's face, the damaged structure above its left eye shattering, reveling its orb to be crudely sewn shut by a thick thread. A low feral growl escaped its throat and lunged itself at him. Wolfe was on the defensive again as the Grimm struck out with both arms, whittling his strength away with each continuous strike.

Before the large blade could connect with his glaive, Neos blade cut through the right damaged shoulder of the Grimm, separating the cleaver-like arm from its torso. Merlots experiment cried out in agony, thick black ichor pouring out from the newest wound. With its legs, the Grimm kicked Neopolitan five times before she was sent flying into a pillar, breaking her Aura.

With his glaive, Wolfe cut off another one of its legs, drawing its attention away from Neo. His weapon was snapped in two by the sudden and vicious attack of its remaining arm. With its hand wrapped around his head, the Grimm held Wolfe while climbing up the walls coming to a stop as they hung from the ceiling of the cave. The Grimm opened its mouth wanting to tear a piece of Wolfe's flesh from his neck. Before that could happen he drew his shotgun holding it underneath its armpit, pulling the trigger. The beast screamed as he fell towards the ground, losing his grip on his shotgun during the fall

And as he reached it Wolfe felt something pierce from out of his stomach right underneath his chest plate. All air inside of his lungs escaped from the impact. He wanted to scream as a lengthy piece of a metal rod skewered him but found himself wanting. The pain was agonizing.

He had no time to process as to what happened when he saw a black blur coming crashing down towards him. The ground shook as the Grimm landed above him, its mouth coming down towards his throat. Holding his armored hand in front of him the abominations teeth bit down. While his arm was protected he could feel the metal bend underneath the pressure.

Frustrated being denied the taste of blood the Grimm started to trash his arm around, reopening the wound on the left shoulder his sister Winter gave him. Wolfe cried out in pain, regretting not spending more time healing his newest scars. He looked down towards the rod sticking out and saw the mouth across the Grimm's stomach snapping towards his own. The sight filled him with dread. He was not going to die here. He promised to return home.

With his free hand, a drew the knife on his right shoulder pad and stabbed the Grimm in its throat, bringing the blade around to the other side, drawing a deep cut. Black blood poured onto his chest plate and Wolfe felt the pressure around his arm lessen. Freeing his arm he formed it into a fist and slammed it against the side of the Grimm's head, separating it from the torso and sending it flying across the cave. The body now head- and armless twitched from side to side, stumbling before falling over.

Sheathing his knife, Wolfe slowly painfully stood up, the rod still sticking out from his body, and made his way towards Neo unconscious form. As he reached her, he went on his knees rolling her over, checking her pulse. She was alive. When he wanted to move her a blade quickly found its way pressed against his throat. His eyes stared into Neo's as the smaller woman glared at him. He slowly removed his hands while she removed her weapon from his jugular.

Before a word could be said the ground beneath them shook. Turning Wolfe saw the Grimm stood back up, without arms or ahead to guide it, silently rushing the both of them. He cursed under his breath, finding no humor in the absurdity of the situation. As he reached for his throwing ax, five explosions consumed the Grimm, the sound booming through the cavernous system.

The Grimm body fell once again the spider-like under the human body disintegrated, leaving the human body behind, its intestines falling out onto the ground. The stench so strong Neo and Wolfe had to shield their noses. A small bile rose from his stomach.

"Get away from my daughter, you bitch!" Roman said through clenched teeth, his cane aimed at the now dead human body of the Grimm.

"Well this is just lovely," He said looking around the cave, a frown on his face.

He made his way towards the both of them, looking into Neopolitan's eyes.

"Are you okay?" Roman asked with concern. She answered him with a nod and a small smile.

Roman's gaze wandered towards Wolfe, his eyes widened with the ruin of his eye.

"Well, well, well… "He mockingly said, the end of his cane lifting his chin up ever so slightly. "What a beautiful face you have, Puppy."

Wolfe wanted to smack that smug look off of his face. Roman moved his head from left to right looking closer at his features, recognition gleamed in his eyes.

"Oum be damned." He exclaimed, a mask of confusion marred Neo's face. "And here I thought Remnant wouldn't give me any more surprises."

"What say you?" He slowly and deliberately questioned him. "Wolfe Schnee."

Neopolitan's head snapped towards him in shock and disbelief.

"I. Am. No. Schnee." Wolfe punctuated every word he spoke, saliva and blood spitting out of this mouth and landing on Roman's white coat. The thief ignored it, the fabric already stained beyond all hope, while his eyebrows were raised by the venom with which Wolfe layered his words.

"No." Roman agreed, removing his cane. "Daddy dearest saw to that, didn't he? How much worth your pretty little head would have to him, I wonder."

He caught Neo's unspoken question as the woman gave the both of them curious glances.

"Call it a hunch," Roman told her. "It's always good to know everything of those you plan to steal from." He looked Wolfe over once again. "I'm sure you can agree, Puppy? No offence of course."

Torchwick was unsettled by the glare Wolfe leveled him. His eyes wandered towards Neo, then the bodies of people of Shari and finally the Grimm.

"None the less," He said, exhaling dramatically looking towards Neo. "Without you, we would very much be dead. We are in your debt." The words were spoken begrudgingly.

"Your words give me no comfort," Wolfe told him, the man simply shrugged.

Neopolitan stood, walking towards the remains of the Grimm body while Roman helped Wolfe stand, shouldering his arm. Wolfe groaned as his body flared with pain, his limbs protesting.

"We should get out of here as soon as possible," Roman said. "Before something else decides to play with us. We're too wounded."

Wolfe nodded.

"There's a doctor in Mistral," Wolfe said with a pained breath. "In an abandoned industrial facility. There's a huge chimney at its side. The building is hard to miss."

"It will take us a day to reach it," Roman mused. "At least you have a useful friend."

Something clattered against the ground making Wolfe and Roman look towards Neopolitan as she sunk onto her knees, sobbing silently.

"Neo?" Roman asked in concern, carefully letting go of Wolfe and made his way towards his partner.

When he reached her he kneeled next to her, looking at what had upset her.

"Shit." He said in a sharp whisper, taking her into his embrace, trying to calm her as she silently sobbed into his shoulder.

Wolfe limbed towards them, his vision becoming unclear, his head throbbing. Before he could reach them he collapsed onto the ground his eyes looking towards the left arm he blew off of the abomination. Before darkness consumed him and he slipped into unconsciousness, Wolfe looked upon the tattoo on her arm. It's black ink faded on her white skin. Five digits were barely readable.

Seven-Seven-One-Nine-Zero.


The next time he awoke it was dark, the sound of a motorized vehicle reached his ears. He was in the back of Romans truck if had to guess. Wolfe groaned as sat up, Nacht whined as he did so. He ran his hand through his fur. He looked down towards his stomach, the rod still protruding from it. But there were bandages around it, stained with blood. The wounds on his head and left arm were also bandaged. He had recollection as to what happened after he passed out. He took solace in the fact that Roman and Neopolitan didn't leave him behind, making him another body in the pile of decaying corpses.

The events of the last hours were still freshly burned into his mind. A whole village was destroyed and its inhabitants dead. They fought a Human Grimm hybrid almost twice their size and almost lost their lives in the process. This was not how he imagined everything to go. There wasn't even supposed to be any of Merlot's experiment left. So why?

"You're awake," a small voice said, taking him by surprise.

Wolfe turned, seeing Kobayashi and Fujin in the same space. His head still throbbed.

"Where are we?" He asked them.

"We're in Mistral," Kobayashi answered him. "You almost slept for a whole day."

"It happens sometimes," he told them, giving them a small smile. The truck suddenly came to a halt and he heard the doors open and close. After a moment Roman and Neopolitan looked into the back. The eyes of the smaller woman were still stained with tears despite her trying to wipe them away.

"Good evening, Puppy," he greeted him. "Good to see you alive."

Torchwick helped him get out of the truck. Everything hurt. The two boys followed them outside. The broken moon illuminating their way towards the main doors. The late hours of the night greeting them with tranquil silence. It almost felt peaceful compared to the last few days.

"Found the building you described," Roman told him as he laid Wolfe's arm around his shoulder. "Let's see if your doctor is-"

"Halt!" A female voice commanded. Wolfe recognized the voice. Torchwick and Neopolitan looked around, searching for its owner.

Members of the White Fang surrounded them, their weapons raised. The two boys seeking shelter behind their legs.

"Friends of yours?" Torchwick asked nervously as he counted the number of weapons aimed at them. Their grips tightening around their weapons too.

"Yes," Wolfe answered. "don't do anything stupid."

"Stupid? Me?" Roman said, trying to stay calm. "Don't know where you get that idea from. I'll have you know that I'm the pinnacle responsibility."

Wolfe and Neo gave him a deadpan look.

"Oh, screw the both of you."

The members drew closer to them.

"Didn't know you liked the petting zoo, Puppy." He whispered into his ear.

"Careful Torchwick," Wolfe warned, the thief letting out a small chuckle.

"Dear old daddy will certainly not like the company you keep."

"Do you still wish to keep your tongue?"

The thief eyed him but said no more degrading words. Sienna walked out into the open observing the newcomers, her expression changed to shock as soon as she laid eyes on Wolfe, the piece of metal still sticking out from under his chest plate. She rushed to his side looking at his wounds.

"What happened?"

From the corner of his eye, Wolfe saw Roman and Neo carefully observed him.

"Walked into a Grimm." He answered her. "Didn't end well."

"I can see that," Sienna said. "But I thought your semblance kept the Grimm away?"

"Oh, it did," Wolfe answered. "But this time it just infuriated it more. Is Watts still here?"

"Yes, he is," Her attention wandered towards Roman and Neo. "Who are these two?"

"Roman Torchwick," the thief introduced himself with a smirk, gesturing towards his partner with his cane. "And this is Neopolitan. I would shake your hand but I'm afraid they're preoccupied."

"Didn't know you consorted with thieves now, Wolfe." Sienna chastised, suspiciously eyeing them. "Since when are you working with these… people?"

If Neo and Roman were offended by her, they didn't show it.

"Please," Roman laughed. "I only met this man only almost a day ago, following his expertise. And what a sight it is."

"What sight?"

"Well his ass of course," Roman said, slapping his hindquarters, eliciting a pained grunt from Wolfe. "I may not play for the home team but even I can appreciate a sight like that."

"I-"

"Do that again Torchwick," Wolfe warned, his teeth clenched. "And I will pull this piece of metal out and skewer you myself."

"Is that a promise, Puppy?" The smirk on the thief's face infuriated him to no end.

Wolfe's free hand snapped up to the metal rod sticking out, tightening around it, sending another flare of pain across his stomach.

"Are you insane!?" Sienna exclaimed as she failed to intercept his hand.

"Don't actually do it!" Roman yelled.

"Can you just get me to Watts?" Wolfe growled in irritation, Sienna supporting him while they walked inside of the building.

"What a surprise," Arthur said when they stepped in, eyeing Wolfe and the two newcomers. "You've certainly looked a lot better."

"Very observant, doctor," Wolfe said. "Can you fix me?"

"I can," Arthur said looking towards Sienna. "Would you escort Wolfe to the operating table for me?"

"Of course," Sienna's eyes wandered to the two White Fang medics further in the back, gesturing towards Roman and Neo. "Take a look at them, will you?"

The medics nodded their heads while two more armed White Fang members escorted them and the thieves to another adjacent room. The two young boys were guided with them.

"So where did you actually go to?" Sienna inquired. The was no force behind the question.

"The marshes south of Shari." He muttered truthfully.

"The marshes south of Shari?" She repeated, searching for any sign of recognition. She has heard of the village before, her eyes widened. "You don't mean the Bloodmarshes do you? Don't tell me you went where I think you went." She asked aghast, looking to Wolfe for answers.

He held her gaze but did not respond to her question. Watts seemed to not care for the conversation they were having while preparing his surgical instruments.

"Seriously?" she hissed. "Merlot's laboratory? Do you have a death wish?"

"No," Wolfe stated, wincing from the pain from his abdomen.

"Well, you're not very convincing."

"If you could reprimand him another time I would be grateful." Watts interrupted. "Remove his chest plate and clothing for me if you will."

"Right," She said, helping him remove his armor. Sienna cut the coat and chain mail so she could remove them from the piece of metal. A necessary procedure she had to learn during her time with the White Fang. Too many of her comrades were injured in their pursuit of equality. She helped him get out of his clothes once she removed the bandages from the wounds. There were scars all across Wolfe's exposed torso and arms, five deep fresh gashes on his left arm, and a reopened wound on his left shoulder.

But as soon as he turned to lie on the medical table made her pause in disbelief and her eyes widened in shock. His bare back was littered with scars, inflicted by a weapon that could have only been a whip. The injuries all too familiar. A repeated punishment by the sight of it. While Sienna quickly recovered from her shock after staring for only a few seconds, it did not go unnoticed by Wolfe. Their eyes met for a brief moment before he broke the gaze they held. She could tell that her seeing his scars made him uncomfortable. She did not blame him and it wasn't her place to pry.

"Everything is in order," Watts finally said, breaking the awkwardness. "We can begin."

"Then I will leave you to it," Sienna said, nodding her head. "I will take care of the two kids you brought in. You know where to find me should you need anything."

Watts acknowledged her words with a nod of his own and Sienna exited the temporary medical room. Wolfe let out a long tired sigh, his eyes looked onto the ceiling while the doctor administered the anesthesia.

"The helmet," He said, gaining the doctor's attention. "It's been destroyed."

"Of course it was," Watts answered monotonously as if he expected such a thing to happen. Wolfe somehow felt insulted by it. "A shame to be sure. Count yourself lucky I constructed a spare just in case."

Just as he was about to answer, he felt his eyelids grow heavy his mouth and tongue not heeding his commands. Darkness overtook him once again.


Slowly but surely Wolfe woke, his eyes regarding the high industrial ceiling as he lay on his back, feeling blankets covering his exposed torso. It weirdly felt cold and oppressive to him. Not the most comforting of sights to wake up to. After what felt like minutes, Wolfe looked to his from where a light shone. Someone lit big candles inside of the room and he watched as wax cascaded downwards, its scent reaching his nostrils.

Wolfe wanted to sit upright but found himself regretting that decision as pain flared from his abdomen. Laying back down, lifted the blankets covering him, finding the metal rod missing and bandages covering his stomach. A sigh of relief escaped him. It was good knowing that Watts removed it. This time he would make sure his wounds were healed before he set out confronting any more monsters.

Looking towards the other side of the room he noticed that he wasn't alone. On the other bed lay the sleeping form of Avelinn and he watched as her chest rose and fell softly. Her shoulder-length hair lay disheveled on the pillow. The candlelight gently illuminated the scales on her cheeks. He noticed her leg was still kept in place, her knee was still shattered from the blast. And it would remain that way until Watts gathered all his resources to create the prosthetic. Unfortunately, she had no unlocked Aura for her superficial wounds to heal. But even Aura had its limits and could not heal the damage her knee sustained to the full extent.

The sight of a black body beside his bed made itself visible to him. Nacht was in the room too, then.

His attention was captured by the light of his scroll. He took the small device from the table next to his bed and Wolfe noticed he had a notification. He was confused as he did not recognize the number. Nor did he usually receive any massages of any kind. As soon as he opened the massage, however, he knew who had sent it.


Hello Puppy,

You might be wondering how I got your number. I may or may not have borrowed your scroll while you were unconscious. I'm not particularly sorry. Roman and I would've liked to have visited you but we're on a tight schedule, so please don't be too disappointed.

I'm giving you my number because we owe you a favor for saving us as much as it pisses Roman off. So should you have any need us, you have my number.

And no, this is not me asking you out.

This is a one-time favor, Puppy so uses it wisely.

Oh and don't tell anyone what you have seen in Merlots laboratory. If you do I'll slit your throat ;)

Until next time.

~ Neo


A small dry laugh escaped his lips as he finished reading the massage. Something he regretted as soon as he did as another flare of pain shot from his stomach. Wolfe did not know what to make of the massage. He did not even know if would ever use this favor of theirs. If he was being honest he was content with never seeing the two of them again. Especially Torchwick. His smug smile infuriated him even now, despite the man not being in his presence.

Wolfe closed his scroll and put it back on the table, staring absentmindedly at the ceiling once more. Sleep would not come to him now that he was awake. All he could do was wait and recount the past few weeks. Most of it he would like to forget.

His thoughts turned to his sister Winter once again. He wondered if she figured out who he was. Who really cut off her arm. Would she even listen to what he had to say? Wolfe didn't even know of what could be said. There were no meaningful words that could provide any semblance of comfort. Would she hate him? Most likely. No one would think very favorable of the one responsible for cutting off their limb. It would be foolish to think otherwise. Only time would tell. As it always did. He had a feeling that their paths will cross in the near future. Wolfe was certain of it. And he couldn't help but dread it. With his task done, the only thing he looked forward to was his home, his mind drifting.


I hope you enjoyed this update. I'm still busy with life and exams but I found time to write.

I've also been reading a few books last month, especially Horror novels from the Warhammer universe.

The House of Night and Chain by David Annandale I recommend should any of you be interested.

Any feedback is welcome.

Stay safe!