Saviors of Remnant: Book 1 Beginnings
Made possible by the joint efforts of Keeper Of The One Winged Angel and TheBoredBoot
AN: Hey guys Keeper here, my partner and I want to thank all of those who have followed our story and a huge shout out to our friend and partner O.S. Worldmakers for helping make this possible, as always we greatly appreciate you the reader. Now with that said please be sure to read, review and follow.
Chapter 4
"Never interrupt your enemy when he is making a mistake."
:Napoléon Bonaparte
Early morning at the Kenrich estate
The sun was barely peeking through the blinds when Fenrir finally decided to get up. Sure, he had a good night's sleep, but he still couldn't help but feel uneasy lying in that bed. "His family didn't even question bringing me here, they just welcomed me with open arms," he thought sitting up and looking out the window, the sunlight causing him to squint slightly. "Oh well at this point it doesn't matter, I guess I'll just have to wait and see what the future holds for me."
Hopping out of bed and moving to the drawer where he placed his clothes, Fenrir froze sniffing the air. "There's that scent again, Lyla must've come into my room without waking me up. But what for though?" Shaking his head he opened the drawer and found that not only his clothes were there, but they seemed to be freshly washed along with new sets of clothes that he had to assume was fitted perfectly to him.
"Hmmm ok well that questions answered," Fenrir muttered to himself throwing on a casual red button up that caught his eye and a matching pair of soft sweats. Looking himself over once and feeling satisfied he then opened the door and made his way down the dim hallway, the mansions simple layout allowing him to easily navigate to the dining room and adjoined kitchen. Opening the door he was met with the sight of Morven's youngest brother pouring himself a glass of milk, his mother beside him him at the stove cooking what he smelled to be eggs and sausage.
Hearing the door open Serena turned and found herself staring into the red eyes of the young Faunus her son and brought with him. "Morven said his name was Fenrir. I can tell he's ex-White Fang but Morven seems to trust him, I guess I can't just get rid of old instincts no matter how many years it's been." Making up her mind she flashed him a smile and held up a plate. "Good morning Fenrir, I hope you slept well. Would you like some breakfast, I wouldn't mind whipping some more eggs."
Nodding Fenrir replied, "yes please, and some sausage too if that's not too much trouble." Taking a seat at the counter he noticed that Garreth was watching him intently, or to be more specific was watching his tail. The look of wonder on his face puzzling the Faunus.
"Alright eggs and sausage coming up," a nervous smile appearing on Serena's face as she grabbed more eggs. "How would you like your eggs Fenrir, Garrett preferred scrambled with cheese on them if that's what you're ok with?"
"Sounds good to me," Fenrir replied meeting her eyes again, her subtle nervousness around him catching his attention again. Taking a breath about to ask her why he caught the faint scent of another Faunus again, not the subtle reptilian scent the Lyla gave off but a more mammalian one. Like a feline. The question on the tip of his tongue Fenrir realized that Garrett and moved behind him without his notice and was staring closely at his tail."
"Gaaahhhhh!" Fenrir yelled in surprise moving to his feet looking at the child, his mind reeling at the shock that the kid had gotten so close without him noticing.
Seeing Fenrir jump, Garreth looked down with a bashful expression and softly kicked the ground for a second before looking up at Fenrir. In a timid voice he asked. "Excuse me Mr. Wolf, can I pet your tail?"
Not expecting that question Fenrir paused, a puzzled look crossing his face for a moment before he nodded, his eyes not leaving the child labor hand as they stretched towards his tail. Instinctually stiffening up expecting the Garreth to pull his tail, Fenrir was surprised when he felt the boy barely brush it. Like he was just barely streaking the fur ever so gently.
Garreth eyes opened in wonder as he marveled at the incredible softness of the wolf Faunus's tail. "Wow it's so soft," he mumbled quietly stroking the tail one last time before stopping. Taking a step back he smiled at Fenrir and thanked him for allowing him to feel his tail before taking his glass of milk and leaving the room.
"Yeah no problem squirt," Fen muttered slightly red in the face. The feeling of having someone touch his tail gently rather enjoyable, although that was something he'd never tell anyone. Watching the boy leave he then turned his gaze back to Serena, the look of amusement on her face making him blush even harder as she brought his plate over to him. The smell of eggs and sausage causing his stomach to growl which made Serena laugh quietly.
"I'm sorry about that, Garreth is a sweet boy and still very young. If you said no he would've understood," Serena said grabbing her coffee before sitting down across from Fenrir. After watching their guest with her youngest son the initial nervousness of having him in her home faded. Although her only worry now was him discovering the secret that Lyla, her husband and eldest son knew about her. Pushing that from her mind she watched as Fenrir wolfed down the the large helping of food she had dished up for him, waiting patiently before asking if he would like a second helping.
Sitting back in his chair a content look on his face, Fen smiled at the woman across from him and shook his head. "No thank you ma'am that was enough for me, although if you tell me where mugs are, I'd like to grab a glass of coffee too if that's alright." Receiving a nod he walked to the kitchen and poured himself a some. Two sugars just like his mother.
Watching him return to the table and sip his coffee Serena saw his nose twitch and a strange look cross his face, looking up from his coffee Fenrir suddenly asked. "So who are the other Faunus that live here?" Freezing in mid sip she broke eye contact with Fenrir and turned towards the window. "What? I don't know what you mean, the only Faunus here is Lyla." She said, the nervousness in her voice causing him to narrow his eyes.
"Well that's not what my nose has told me," Fen replied with a slight growl to his voice sitting up straight, his tail could be seen curling slightly as he gave her a hard look. "Ever since I've arrived here I had noticed beside Lyla, there were two other scents. Human scents seemed to be mixed with them, but the more I thought about it they were Faunus as well. It was like someone is using a human scent as camouflage."
Before Serena could open her mouth the door opened and Morven entered the dining room. "Ahh Mr. Argyros there you are, Since you've eaten breakfast I'm sure you'll be ready for your sparring match against me. You made a rather bold statement so I hope you don't disappoint me."
Fenrir looking at Morven for a split second thought he caught a hint of amusement on the man's normally expressionless face. "Oh so he's laughing at me huh," he thought heatedly completely forgetting his question and shooting Morven a dirty look. "Well we'll see if the Storm Commander lives up to his reputation." Flashing Morven a smirk of his own, Fenrir downed the rest of his coffee and stood reaching up and stretching before replying. "I'll stick with what I said Morven, just try to put up some sort of fight against me."
Slightly rolling his eyes Morven sternly shot back, "well if your skills are almost as bad as your ego I shouldn't expect much, and in any case go get changed into whatever you'd prefer to fight in. We leave in thirty minutes."
Still smirking, Fenrir narrowed his eyes and stood up watching Morven leave, about to shoot another comeback when Serena's stifled giggling stopped him. With a cross expression on his face he asked, "hey what's so funny?" Feeling that he was the reason for her amusement.
Giggling a little bit longer, Serena gave Fenrir an embarrassed sort of smile. "I'm sorry Fenrir, it's just that, it's been awhile since I've seen my oldest son get fired up about something. Ever since he's found his duty he's been so serious. Don't get me wrong, he's still a loving son and older brother, but he's not the same as he was." Suddenly turning embarrassed she clapped her cheeks and began apologizing hysterically saying that it wasn't her intent to ramble on about family problems, apologizing one last time before she left the room.
Seeing that he was once again alone Fen snorted with laughter thinking of her words. "So I can get under his skin somewhat, hmmm." After taking his dishes to the sink, Fen made his way to his room changing into his regular clothes. Tenderly touching his scarf he felt new determination flow through him and quickly made his way to the front door to meet Morven, the anticipation of the fight adding a noticeable pep to his step as they walked out to the car.
Twenty minutes later arriving at Atlas Academy
"So this is Atlas Academy huh, I gotta say it's kind of what I expected," Fen said in a unimpressed voice staring at the militaristic building shivering slightly. The crispness in the air and brightness of the sun off the snow slightly hurting his eyes as him and Morven headed up the steps to the entrance.
"Hey Morven, Fen, over here." Yang called out from the top of the stairs waving. The two Schnee's beside her also smiling, although Fen noticed Winter's faded when she noticed him.
"Hello ladies, shall we go inside so we can conduct our business, I'm sure Mr. Argyros can't wait to show us his skills." Morven said his voice taking a condescending tone which made Fenrir bare his teeth.
Before he could shout a retort Weiss came down the remaining stairs and lept into Morven's arms. Her sister he noticed, pursed her lips but remained silent as Weiss wrapped her arms around Morven laughing excitedly while he carried her back up to the top depositing her next to Winter. "Morven I can't wait to show you the progress I've made using my glyphs," she said patting her skirt down giving him another smile. "I had Winter give me some pointers on summoning and I think I'm finally getting the hang of it."
"Well I look forward to seeing the fruits of your training Weiss, but first I actually have some business to with Fenrir and your teammate here. Speaking of which," Morven paused looking from Weiss too Yang and then back again, giving the young Schnee an accusing look. "So how much did you warn her princess? I know since you're teammates and friends, you'd want to help her out with her against me as much as you can so sharing information own our previous training matches would make sense."
Both Weiss and Yang blushed at this knowing they were caught. "I didn't tell her the secret of your semblance since I know you won't have to use it, but I did tell her a bit about your fighting style," Weiss admitted sheepishly brushing her hair from her eyes. "Besides you always say, the more intel you have on an opponent the better right?" Her arms crossed as she threw back one of his own lessons.
Morven smiled at this and patted her head. "You always were a quick study under me Weiss," he said turning and leading the group inside to the combat arenas.
Fenrir lagging behind silently followed the group listening to their conversation thinking about the fight, not really paying attention he was surprised when Yang fell back and matched his pace.
"Hey Fen how'd you sleep last night? I heard from Winter that your staying at Morven's home," she asked giving him a friendly smile. "I'm staying at the Schnee's manor for my time here so it's a real eye opener seeing how fancy everything is."
"Yeah, it's certainly different from where I grew up." Fen admitted noticing Morven watching him from the corner of his eye, still conversing with the Schnee's. "His family is really nice though, almost too nice if you ask me. Just letting a stranger stay in their home, although his mother seemed wary of me, which reminds me." Turning to Yang Fen asked. "Hey over at the Schnee mansion, do they have any Faunus servants or anything there?
"Huh?" Yang looked confused at this and had to think for a second. After a moment she shook her head, "I only say one during my time there. She was a rabbit Faunus that worked in the kitchen, she seemed rather at home. Why do you ask?"
"Well turns out Morven's wet nurse was a Faunus when he was younger, and while I was there I noticed at least two other scents that were Faunus." Fen said looking after Morven who had stopped to talk to a teacher. "I just have that feeling that he's hiding something from me, like he's trying to protect someone."
Yang watch Fen closely as he furrowed his brow deep in thought, the slight twitch of his tail and perplexed expression made her pause noticing how handsome Fen actually was. "No stop," she thought shaking her head, "I still need to be a bit cautious of him. He may be like Blake as an Ex-White Fang member but this guy was a killer, and old habits die hard." Realizing the pun, Yang bit her tongue stifling a laugh which Fen noticed.
"You ok blondie?" Fen asked with raised eyebrows watching Yang closely, she seemed to be struggling with something internally and that somewhat peaked his interest. "You look like you hurt yourself, or do you always spaz out this much."
Hear his words as more of a statement rather than a question, Yang turned about to give the Faunus a piece of her mind but then saw the smile playing across his lips and stopped. "Huh what's this a comedic rival? I guess that's fair." Changing her mind she just returned his smile and shook her head, giving him a nod of approval as they walked through a final set of doors entering a large room with multiple mid-sized areas and viewing areas for them.
"Welcome to the Atlas academy combat training facility. Please watch your step on the stairs we have to go all the way to one of the far arenas," Morven stated calmly continuing to lead the way, occasionally waving to students who greeted them.
"Wow this guy's pretty popular huh, must be because his family or something," Fen muttered to Yang, his tone somewhat jealous as he watched Morven, not noticing Weiss falling back to join them. "I mean even students know him, what's ups with that?"
"Actually it's because Morven is a part time combat instructor here," Weiss said evenly falling in beside Yang, giving Fenrir a pointed look before continuing. "Before he was such a high ranking Specialist, he spent a good amount of time here instructing students combat basics in his spare time. Although…" Weiss then fell silent remembering something right as the group stopped.
Realizing they had finally arrived at their arena Fen looked up and noticed a group of people approaching them. He recognized General Ironwood, and a couple of the Councilors from his trial but the woman in the red dress who was with them seemed very out of place.
Her dress had a daring plunge in the front and was open to the side from toe to upper thigh leaving very little to the imagination. The strawberry blonde blonde of her hair fell slightly past her shoulders and contrasted nicely with her sun-kissed skin.
Fen froze, feeling his gaze upon her she met his red eyes with her sea foam green ones and smiled seductively, his face turning red as he turned away noticing the look of disapproval on Yang's face while Weiss and Winter seemed to be watching Morven intensely.
"Good morning Specialist Schnee, good morning Specialist Kenrich, I see everyone is ready for their initial trial match," Ironwood said stopping in front of the group, his eyes lingering on Fenrir a moment longer before returning to the two Specialists and Weiss. A soft smile touching his face as he added, "and I see Weiss came with you, does that mean you are going to attend the academy here and follow your sister's example of becoming a Specialist Ms. Schnee?"
"I'm sorry sir but I'm not," Weiss replied politely shaking her head before looking at Winter, her sister's face unreadable. "I'm actually here to have a match with Morven as well since he promised me, I hope that's alright if he's not too busy."
"Well aside from these two trial matches he's all yours Ma'am," Ironwood said cracking a smile a Morven before turning to Fenrir looking serious again. "Mr. Argyros I want to apologize for the treatment you received while under Lore Black's custody. While you were a criminal in holding, his actions were unjustified and unethical to say the least. I hope you understand that he was not acting under anyone's orders, but rather was acting of his own accord."
Taken aback by the General's apology, Fenrir couldn't even think of a sarcastic response to this. Instead he just shrugged looking into the General's eyes muttering, "it's whatever man. Morven has already made it up to me though by giving me a place to stay so we're straight."
The General narrowed his eyes slightly at this but before he could respond the woman in the red dress chuckled at Fens words. "It seems this little wolf has quite the bark doesn't he dear," she said in a silky voice to the well dressed man beside her. "It's always refreshing to see the young are still so full of life despite these troubled times wouldn't you say."
"Yes I agree," the man said nodding his gaze resting on Fenrir. He opened his mouth to speak again when Morven interrupted and politely said, "Mr. Nier I'm surprised that you're here, usually our meetings with you take place in Vacuo. What brings you to Atlas?"
"Hello again Morven, it's always good to see you. And you as well Ms. Schnee," he said bowing politely before peering around the Specialist's to look at the three behind them pointing at Weiss first. "I recognize you as a Schnee as well but who are your companions?"
Yang feigning indignation gasped," oh my word you don't recognize me? I am Madam Xiao-long of Patch, first of my name and future ruler of the island." She said pausing for effect struggling to keep a straight face while both Weiss and Fenrir face palmed.
Everyone fell silent and stared at Yang who caved slightly under their combined stare until the woman in the red dress giggled and said, "oh I like her." Sidling up to her she leaned in close and locked eyes with Yang who blushed at the suddenness. "Ms. Xiao-long you said, my name is Zoe and I must say you are indeed a woman who may not be so refined, but you certainly have something that'll grab attention wouldn't you say," wetting her lips as she left it on that question before turning to Morven. "You're Morven Kenrich are you not? The eldest son of Yorath Kenrich, who declined being heir to the Kenrich family business?"
Morven nodded politely, "yes I am although I don't think I've had the pleasure of meeting you before. You said your name was Zoe? It is a honor and a pleasure to meet a woman as lovely as yourself," he said bending and kissing her hand, a gesture which wasn't missed by Winter who inwardly screamed.
"I hear you're quite skilled with that sword of yours," Zoe said seductively gesturing down on him, her heavily lidded eyes watching his every move but also watching Winter from the corner of her eye. "I look forward to seeing that for myself."
"Well stick around cause we are about to have a little match right now, a test for the young wolf here to see if he has more bite than bark, and speaking of which." Morven turned to Ironwood. "May I get started sir, I'm sure you'll find their performance satisfactory which will dictate the level of difficulty for future missions."
"Alright Morven," the General said with a calm nod turning his eye to Yang and Fenrir. "Let's see what they can do."
Five minute later
Yang bounced on her toes nervously as Morven came to a stop across from her, his calm stride and expression for some reason setting her on high alert as he assumed a basic fighting stance. His weapon to her surprise not drawn but still resting on his hip.
The Ref watching from his platform then yelled, "fighters! This is a one round match, rules are simple, loser by ring out or aura depletion! Are the combatants ready?!" Looking from both Yang and Morven giving him the ok he took a deep breath."
"Begin!"
Immediately using Ember Celica, Yang blasted herself across the distance between them and went for a two handed hammer strike hoping to catch him off guard but all the while Weiss's advice playing in her mind.
"The most important thing to know about fighting Morven is that he's patient. He can play defense all day and will wear you down easily. It'll be difficult but your best bet is to bait him into attacking and then going even harder on your offense. Be warned though, the last time he lost a match was when he was a student, so in all honestly don't expect to win."
"That may work for you ice queen but I aim to win," she roared hitting the ground triggering her gauntlets firing two shots in his direction causing him to drop to the ground.
Expecting him to be slower Yang spun on her heel and blasted the ground again, launching herself above the prone Specialist getting ready to come down on him like a ton of bricks only to have him roll quickly to his feet and leap up towards her.
Back in the stands, Fenrir watched the fight with great interest, his eyes following Morven's movements. "This guy is holding back that much is certain, but I can't get my temper get the better of me when it's my turn to fight. If I want him to take me seriously I'll have to at least find a way to make this sparkplug draw his sword," Fenrir thought crossing his arms as Morven leaped in the air startling Yang forcing her to miss the attack and hit the ground rolling to her feet.
Turning to try and catch Morven before he landed Yang had to dive to the side, narrowly avoiding the throwing knife that he had sent but now dangerously off balance. Her eyes following the knife a sudden chill went down her spine as Weiss's final words screamed to her.
"Whatever you do Yang don't take your eyes off him."
"Oh shit," Yang whispered, her eyes darting back to Morven who had closed the distance between them much faster than she had expected. Eyes darting from his face to his hands she spotted another knife, held in his left hand in a reverse grip he slashed from the side going for her left.
Still off balance Yang, purely on instinct managed to get her right leg back under her body and brought her left arm up striking the knife and knocking it out of his hand. A look of shock and pride crossing her face as she shouted, "I did it!" The knife still spinning in the air as she cocked her right arm back about to punch.
"Huh, maybe I underestimated you." Morven said calmly snagging the knife out of the air with his left hand from over his shoulder, Yang's punch going right for his back as he turned. With shocking speed he used his momentum and deflected the punch with nudge from his right hand while he brought the left holding the knife past her face forcing her to leap back distancing herself from the Specialist. Staring at her for a moment before cracking another smile reaching into his trench coat pulling another knife. "Or maybe I'm just testing you still Yang."
Narrowing her eyes at his words Yang was about to shoot him a comeback when she saw it. On the ground between them, several strands of her golden sunshine colored hair laying there. Her eyes flashing red as she screamed in rage, aura flaring as she blasted towards him firing off in a huge volley.
"What I thought you needed a haircut Yang," Morven said with a low chuckle dodging her blasts closing the distance between them again. The two knives that were in his hands now embedded in the ground along with a third behind him seemingly forgotten as he went to engage her in close quarters combat.
The two of them clashed in the center of the ring, Yang throwing punches as fast as she could while Morven smoothly blocked and redirected her strikes. The contrast of control between the two obvious to those who watched from the sidelines, Morven's calm and collected movements versus Yang's rushed and thoughtless attacks.
"I see what your doing Morven, throwing Blondie in a blind rage is smart. Once she is in that state of mind she'll fuck up and open herself up, then you use that opportunity to beat her into submission." Fenrir thought as his tail swayIng from side to side in anticipation for his fight. Focusing on the fight out of the corner of his eye he noticed Eve coming up towards him, a friendly smile on her face.
"Hello Fenrir, watching the fight before your up?" She asked kindly sitting beside him surveying the arena. "Oh my, Ms. Xiao-long looks quite upset. Did something happen?"
"Yea, Morven just cut off a strand of blondie's hair, so now she is in rage mode and I believe the sparkplug is about to end this match."
"Well you're right about him about to end this match, you see those knives he left on the ground behind him," Eve said pointing at the blades. "Those aren't ordinary throwing knives, you see he's not the Storm Commander for nothing…"
Yang's vision was a haze of red as she swung wildly at Morven, his annoying technique of brushing aside her attacks to block them was really getting on her nerves and she was starting to get winded which wasn't helping. After a couple more swings Yang halfway through though her attack faltered. Morven taking the opportunity ducked under the swing and swept her feet from under her, pivoting on his heel before kicking Yang in her solar plexus knocking her onto her back.
Panicking because she lost sight of him again Yang used the momentum from falling and rolled backwards back onto her feet to find Morven charging her. Bracing herself for him expecting a tackle or a kick she froze when he hurled another knife her direction. The knife unexpected fell short and landed before her a split second before a shock rooted her in place.
"Sorry Yang," was the last thing she heard before his foot impacted her chest launching her out of bounds ending the match.
"Match over!" The Ref shouted signalling that the fight was done. "Winner by ring out, Specialist Morven Kenrich."
Laying on her back outside the ring Yang was crestfallen, closing her eyes and fighting back tears of shame she thought. "Dammit I thought I had him for a second there, but it turns out it was just all part of his plan. I hope I at least impressed him and the General since that's what this is all about. Level placement for the jobs we'll be able to do." Opening her eyes she was greeted by Morven standing above her holding out his hand, a look of approval on his face as he helped her up.
"I'm very impressed Yang, although all that over the loss of a little hair seemed a bit excessive. I mean you did lose your arm remember? I figured that a haircut wouldn't have been that big of a deal," Morven said walking her back to the stands
Fenrir watching this put his hand tenderly around his scarf before removing it completely, handing it to the old woman. "Can you do me a favor and hold on to this for me granny," Fenrir asked getting up from his seat. "As much as I hate to admit it this will only slow me down in my fight, and If I'm going to prove to these Atlas bums that I'm not just some kid, then the only way to prove it is by giving their top dog a run for his money!"
"Don't worry deary I'll keep it safe for you," Eve said tenderly holding the scarf. "Now you go out there and try your best alright, remember to keep an eye out for his knives and for goodness sake try not to let him get too close or put you in a hold."
"I'll keep that in mind," Fen said watching Morven closely. The Specialist he noticed was breathing slightly faster than normal and that gave a Fen hope. Waiting till Yang was closer and looked at him he shot her a thumbs up which she returned with an appreciative smile. "Don't worry Yang I'll get him back for you," he said winking at her making her and Morven laugh.
"What ever happened to you not wanting to be a knight Mr. Argyros?" Morven said with a light chuckle making Fenrir growl. "After all that's a knightly statement you made there, considering you still have to back up your earlier claim so I'd worry more about preserving your own dignity."
And with that Morven then reached out and Winter handed him Fenrir's swords which he then held out for the Faunus to take, his eyes becoming clear and focused again.
"Now let's see if you even have a bite little wolf."
Back in the arena five minutes later
"Alright fighters!" The Ref called out looking down at the arena. "Just like the earlier this is a one round match, loser by ring out or aura depletion! Are the two combatants ready?"
"Yeah, ready to kick this Specialist's ass if that's what you mean." Fen said drawing his swords and baring his teeth, his tail stiffly pointing out behind him as he glared at Morven. "Then maybe I can start getting some respect around here, I hate being looked down upon by people who think they're better than me."
"Well not to burst your bubble pup, but these people here who think they're better than you. It's because they are," Morven said coolly flicking his wrist pulling out one of his knives spinning it in his left hand before flipping to into a reverse grip. His gold flecked eyes calmly surveying Fenrir's stance before he got into his own preparing for whatever the young wolf had planned.
"Begin!"
"Grrr you bastard," Fenrir yelled immediately pointing one of his blades at Morven, the glint beside the point of his blade revealed to be a barrel indicating that his swords were also guns. Firing twice aiming center mass at the Specialist he couldn't help but growl in frustration as Morven moved to the side dodging the shots effortlessly.
"Don't tell me that's all you have to show Mr. Argyros," Morven chided in an unimpressed tone waiting for the Faunus's next move. "What ever happened to this deadly White Beast that people were so afraid of?"
"Calm down Fen, this guy just wants to make me lose my cool so he could beat me like he did with Yang, I have to find a way to force his hand before he can come in close," Fenrir thought checking his surroundings. Gripping his swords tightly the Faunus leapt back focusing and summoning one of his wolves, the lightning dust from his sword flowing into the beast. This creating a blinding flash of light caused Morven to use his free hand to shield his eyes, hiding Fenrir from his sight.
"Alright so that's how you want to play," Morven thought squinting his eyes through the blinding light searching for Fenrir. "Maybe he will put up more of a fight then I initially thought." Throwing his knife at the wolf causing it to vanish and the blinding light to fade.
"You're not even that tough Morven!" Fenrir shouted coming in from the left swinging one of his swords straight for the Specialist's throat.
"Not tough you say," Morven scoffed swiping his hand to the left, the force of it hitting Fenrir's wrist not only blocking the strike but knocking the blade from his right hand before finishing with a two hit attack ending and a uppercut knocking Fenrir onto his back. Looking down at the Faunus Morven sighed trying to choose his words carefully, he could tell already that the young wolf was getting flustered and soon wouldn't listen at all. "You still have a lot to learn if you're going to fight alongside us Fenrir, the world is becoming more dangerous everyday and it's people like us that have to do their part to protect those that can't protect themselves."
"Just shut up!" Fenrir shouted getting back to his feet, gripping his sword tightly as he shot Morven a glare before dashing toward his other blade snatching it up and firing another couple rounds at the Specialist. "Is this a fight or are you just gonna lecture me into submission! I didn't hear you talking blondies ear off during your fight with her so what's the deal of adding this torture for me?!"
"Calling this torture is a bit of an exaggeration don't you think," Morven replied dodging the shots taking a quick step closer a look of exasperation dotting his face. Flicking his wrist he pulled another knife using it to parry another slash continuing his conversation like nothing was going on. "After all I'm going to be your instructor and Winter is going to be in charge of me, so it would be in your best interest to learn to get along."
"Oh give me break with all your bullshit Morven! You think I'll listen to a Schnee?" Fenrir yelled going for another slash growling when his attacks were met with a reversal. Jumping and feigning an attack from above Fen launched a kick from the left hitting Morven's forearm, seeing an opening in his defenses thrust his sword forcing Morven backwards towards the edge.
Narrowing his eyes feeling the edge behind him, Morven shifted to the right passing the blade. "Pride is an important thing but don't be a fool," striking down with a hammer fist Morven went to connect with Fenrir's right right blade when he saw it. The electrical charge from the lightning dust arcing across the surface of left hand blade coming right for him.
With speed and power Fenrir didn't expect and barely managed to block in time, he suddenly felt himself lifted off the ground following the blow from Morven's sword. The move itself he barely caught a glimpse of it but looking down from the air he could see how he did it. "Damn that was close, although…" A smile spreading across face as he met Morven's eyes, the expression on Morven's face torn between annoyance and approval. "I got him to draw his sword so now I can see what he's really made of."
"Alright Fenrir you have my undivided attention now," Morven said evenly moving as if to sheath his sword but then stopping seeing Fenrir's eyes follow his blade. The realization that that was what he was after the whole time causing a ghost of a smile to cross his face. "So you wanted me to draw Storm Razor and you got it. So now what, did you actually plan this far ahead?"
"I thought it was obvious you sparkplug," Fenrir retorted landing in the center of the ring. Tail twitching in excitement as he crossed his two blades pausing before shouting, "now I'm gonna get serious and kick your ass!" Lashing his swords out he triggered the separators on the spine of the blade transforming them into bladed whips, their reach quadrupling as they cut straight for the Specialist from either side.
"Don't call me that," Morven said in a irritated tone diving under the swinging blades moving closer, his eyes following Fenrir's hands as he felt one of the blades close in behind him. Not even he moved his left hand blocking the strike from over his shoulder, redirecting all the force away from him as he rushed Fenrir.
At the same time in the stands
Yang watched the fight with baited breath as Morven moved in suddenly, the fight she had noticed from start held a much different tone from when she went against the Specialist. While Morven had remained silent for the most part against her, now he seemed very talkative. Like this was more than a fight for the two of them.
The clash of blades was loud but Yang couldn't help but turn away from the fight and look across the sizable crowd that had gathered to watch. Varying from students and faculty members, to parents and highborn families watching the fight with rising interest. One person she noticed seemed to be watching the fight much more closely, that Zoe woman she had met earlier who was with the businessman from Vacuo.
Even from this distance she could see the woman's eyes following Morvan, a predatory sort of look on her face that for some reason sent a shiver down her spine. Unable to figure out why she felt the way she did, Yang turned away continuing to survey the crowd. To her surprised she spotted two people she recognized. Neon Katt and Flynt Coal from their two on two battle during the Vytal Festival, were now sitting in the same outfits they wore watching the fight. Straining to pick out their voices in all of the commotion Yang swore she heard Neon's voice shout, "Yeah kick his butt teach!" While Flynt sat there beside her watching intently.
Suddenly the gathered crowd roared in excitement causing Yang to turn back to the fight in time to see Fenrir's other sword fly from his hand, the blade sailing out of bounds, Morven slashed again with his own sword and knocked Fenrir after the blade. Looking up at the screens showing their Aura levels she saw that while Morven's had only gone down a little, Fenrir had his low in the red indicating that either by ring out or another hit he would've been done either way.
"Match over! The winner, Specialist Morven Kenrich, by ring out!" the referee cried, signaling the end of the battle.
"Well he did a bit more damage to the guy then me," she thought nodding her head, impressed. "And not only did he manage to make him draw his sword, but he also attempted to go toe to toe with him as well. That makes me wonder, which of us would win a fight?" Yang pondered this as she watched Morven go down from the platform, offering Fenrir a hand up.
Back down on the arena floor
"I must say you put up a better fight than I first expected Mr. Argyros," Morven said politely sheathing Storm Razor before holding out his hand. "Through combat, one can truly understand another wouldn't you agree. I'm sure even Ironwood was impressed by your demonstration of strength as well. If I had to say it we might have quite the choice pick of mission, how does that…"
"Shut up I don't care!" Fen yelled smacking Morven's hand away before standing and glaring at him. "I bet you enjoyed destroying my pride, but then again I shouldn't be shocked. I mean look at you, a silver spoon raised highborn who got everything he ever wanted in life. I got news for you Kenrich, if you think this means we understand each other then you're wrong. You don't know a damn thing about me." Shooting Morven one last glare, Fenrir shuffled off from the ring picking up his swords and sheathing them before returning to the stands joining Yang.
Looking after the young Faunus Morven decided against immediately going after him thinking. "I guess that loss hurt his pride more than I predicted," sadly watching Fenrir sit beside Yang. Sighing heavily he then turned and headed to where the Ironwood was sitting in the stands.
Holding out a bottle of water that Eve had grabbed for them Yang smiled sympathetically at Fenrir. "You put up a pretty good fight Wolfy, better than I did anyway, but I think we had zero chances of winning that fight from the start."
Grabbing the bottle from the blonde Fenrir took a deep swig before looking at Yang a grateful expression on his face. "Thanks Yang at least you're not gonna rub it my face, but I have to get stronger so I can not only get some payback on my brother but also surpass Morven and once that's done I'll leave to Vale," his tone turning dark as he thought of his brother.
Seeing his dark expression and wanting to change the subject Yang turned her gaze to the crossed swords on Fenrir's back. Feeling curious she asked, "hey Fen that thing you did with your swords was pretty cool. It certainly caught Morven's attention turning them into whips."
"Oh, that. It was nothing," Fen growled, taking another gulp of water before giving Yang a suspicious look. "Why are you being so friendly with me blondie, don't get me wrong I appreciate the gesture... but it's just something that I'm not used to." He put the water down and gave the blonde Huntress a look between suspicion and sadness.
Yang nodded sympathetically, and looked over at one of the other arenas where two students were fighting before saying in a low voice. "Yeah. I don't blame you I guess. Humans aren't necessarily the nicest huh, and considering that you were in the White Fang for so long. I can understand your wariness to not trust us, Winter especially."
"I'm sorry blondie. Lets just say I have some scars that just won't heal, but... judging how you refer to Ice Queen you must be close to the family huh?" Fen asked taking another sip of water. But before that, he stole a quick glance of the blonde brawler and blushed slightly. "Now that I get time to look at her... Yang is really hot- No! What the hell am I thinking!? She would never be into some lowlife Faunus like me!"
Looking over at Winter, Yang laughed quietly, a melodious sound to those around before she answered. "Winter? No actually this would only be the second real time I've met her. Back at Beacon, well before the attack I was on a team with her younger sister. Sure we all butted heads from time to time, but when it really came down to it we all had each other's backs. Well, that was most of us anyway…" Yang said, her voice trailing off as her thoughts drifted elsewhere.
Fenrir noticed the sad tone in her voice, decided to fix things before it got any worse. "Here's some friendly advice for ya Yang. Whatever demons you have locked away, it would be best if you face them as quickly as possible, because if you let those emotions get in the way during a fight you'll fall!" he said giving the blonde brawler a rare smile as he continued, "but hey since we are teammates now I guess we'll have each others back and show that Spark plug that he's not the only top dog in this pack."
"Ironic you'd say that pup," a voice came as Weiss sat down beside Yang out of nowhere giving Fenrir a somewhat suspicious look before shrugging and saying under her breath, "I will say you were somewhat impressive. I wasn't the only person who noticed during your fight with Morven. To get him to draw his blade, there might be some promise for you."
Fenrir gave Weiss a sly smile, " Well I'm so glad that I have your approval, Ice Queen, but I'm going to tell you what I told both Morven and your sister. Just because I'm young doesn't mean I don't know how to handle my girls in combat. So the next time I see that guy in the ring, let's just say he's going to need a change of batteries!" He said throwing his fist in the air, leaving the two girl's dumbstruck at his pun.
Yang cracked a smile and then burst out laughing, the expression on the young's wolf's face being too much for her as she wiped tears of laughter from her eyes. "Wow you know we might actually become good friends if you have a killer sense of humor," she said with another laugh ignoring Weiss's eye roll. "I agree with you though, next time." Yang punched her fists together to empathize her point, "next time I'm gonna beat him too."
"You? Beat Mr. Kenrich? Don't make me laugh," Neon said walking up to their group. Well move like skating up since she was wearing those skates she was always seen with during the tournament. Beside her looking collected as usual was Flynt Coal who gave his to old opponent a nod and a smile in greeting.
"Hey Schnee, Fireball, new guy. Couldn't help but overhear your conversation just now. So what's brings you guys to Atlas? I mean, I figured you'd be back in Vale considering what happened," Flynt said shaking his head sadly.
At the mention of of ruined kingdom Fenrir averted his eyes shamefully. Although he didn't directly take part in the attack, he still felt bad for what transpired during the fall. "What can I say, even though I was not there during the attack on beacon I'll be seen as the bad guy and nothing I do will bring the people who died back."
Noticing the sad expression on his face Yang nudged Fenrir's shoulder giving him a sympathetic look, "Hey Wolfy what's wrong you look like something's troubling you?"
"Awww he's probably just a little butthurt that he lost," Neon said butting in. Her own tail playfully swaying as she skated around them. "It's really surprises me that you thought you had a chance though against him though, maybe the schools you went to made you think you were a hot shot. Well I got news for you." Neon said suddenly stopping in front of Fen, her hand pointing accusingly in his face. "My fearless leader over there," pointing her other hand at Flynt, "we've been students here at Atlas for awhile so we know that there are somethings that students haven't been able to do, and beating Morven is one of them."
"Neon please cool it," Flynt said in an exasperated tone pushing her hand out of his face, turning to Fenrir he nodded and held out his hand. "Hey sorry about Neon here, she kind of needs to work on her filter. But what she said about Morven though is correct although…" Flynt's eyes narrowed slightly as he met Fen's red ones, "very few have even managed to make him use Storm Razor in their first fight so we'll acknowledge your skill in accomplishing that."
"Thanks, I've been training my ass off but did not think he would be that strong," Fenrir said before turning his gaze to the cat Faunus with a toothy grin on his face. "I knew you looked familiar fuzz ball, I remember watching your match with Yang in the tournament," his own tail swaying playfully as he walked up to her. "She hit you so hard that the fight ended in a cat-tastrophy wouldn't you say?"
Hearing this Neon cracked a smile and laughed out loud while Yang snorted in surprise, the absolute ridiculousness in his pun bringing tears to her eyes as the two girls began laughing uncontrollably.
"Wow and I thought blondie's jokes over here were bad," Neon said still laughing. Resuming her skating around them she kept laughing until Flynt stuck his foot out tripping her into a chair where she landed pouting that her fun was being interrupted.
Shaking his head and turning to Fen, Flynt gave the wolf an embarrassed look. "Hey man sorry if Neon over here was being rude, but I will say that was pretty terrible. Anyway I am curious, who are you and what are you doing here with Mr. Kenrich, Winter and Yang?"
Fenrir still had a smile on his face before quickly giving flynt a serious look, "sorry guys but if I told you that I would get a never-ending lecture from my ball and chain or her there," gesturing towards Morven, who was in the middle of a serious conversation with Ironwood and Winter.
"Fenrir's right guys, it's not our place to tell plus we'd wouldn't want to get you two in trouble with Morven or Winter," Yang said as she put her hand behind her head hoping to change the subject.
Conveniently enough before another question could be asked Morven's voice rang out. "Alright Weiss you ready to go? Just like I promised," he said in a friendly tone approaching them. Getting closer he recognized Neon and Flynt, and shot them a friendly smile. "Oh hello again Neon, how it going Flynt? Hows your father doing these days?"
"Hello Mr. Kenrich," the duo said simultaneously smiling back waving, Flynt taking a step forward to shake his hand. "My dads doing fine, thanks for asking. Are you about to go a round with the Schnee over there?" He asked pointing at Weiss who was checking Myrtenaster.
"Yeah, after all I did promise her I'd have a little match against her." Morven said giving Weiss a thumbs up before looking at the trumpeter with a challenging smile. "Why do you want to go a round too?"
Putting up his hands in mock surrender Flynt laughed, "ha ha no thanks I choose life teach. But I'll happily watch from the sidelines if that's ok?" He said taking a seat beside Fen, kicking back and getting comfortable.
"Yeah I'm gonna agree with the boss here," Neon chirped from her chair as well fidgeting a second before getting comfortable. Seeing he was still standing there she gave him a shooing motion. "Get to fighting already teach, I love a good show."
Chuckling slightly, Morven waited a moment for Weiss to join him and the two of them left for the arena while the rest watched.
Waiting till they were out of earshot Fenrir scoffed and turned back to Yang, muttering under his breath. "Watch, I bet Morven's going to take it easy on the Schnee and then praise her afterward, you know since their families are so close." Taking another sip of his water he sighed grumpily before falling silent.
Catching what Fen said with her sharp ears Neon let out a loud laugh and smacked her knee, the randomness of it to everyone else which made them give her a strange look, but she ignoring them and stared at Fen before explaining. "You really think that's how he operates? Well considering this isn't their first fight you can guarantee that he won't go easy on her, in fact he might even be harder on her then he was on you two." She said pointing at Yang as well getting the her attention.
Hearing this, Yang couldn't help but wonder what she meant by that, Fenrir as well who turned at the same time both asking in a confused voice, "what do you mean he won't go easier on her?" Both of them freezing and blushing from the surprise of being in unison.
"Begin!" Cried the Referee, immediately triggering Weiss's first attack, a graceful slash with her rapier while creating several of her runes which began rapidly firing beams of energy at Morven, who countered with his own drawn sword deflecting them.
"Well you see look at it this way," Neon explained leaning back in her seat turning her eyes to the fight. "I'm sure you know now that Morven and Winter were supposed to get married. Both of them being respective heirs to their family's legacy. Because of that in Weiss's eyes she is his sister in law and so she works hard training and fighting so he doesn't have to worry about her."
"I don't understand it," Fen groaned turning to watch the fight as well, his fists clenched seeing that Morven already had his sword drawn and was heavily engaged against the younger Schnee. "Dammit, looks like I didn't put up that good of a fight if Morven started off with his sword against that little bitch, what can she do that I can't?" Sulking slightly Fen sighed and crossed his arms falling silent watching the fight with a sullen disinterest.
Turning her gaze to Fenrir Yang pursed her lips and sighed as well, being prideful herself she could understand Fen being upset after his loss. "I just wish I knew what to say to cheer him up," she thought racking her brain for a topic when she remembered him mentioning something about his brother. Taking a sip of her own water Yang then gently nudged Fen to get his attention before asking. "Hey, well since we are going to be working together for awhile I guess it would be better if we got to know each other a little better don't you think?"
At these words Fen could've sworn his heart skipped a beat, as he turned and met her lilac eyes, those lovely lilac eyes that he could just stare at and get lost in. "Dammit what am I doing?" He thought shaking his tearing his eyes away, his cheeks burning slightly as he sighed again trying to pick his words. "Yeah… I guess blondie. So you wanna ask first or should I?"
Yang paused and thought for a moment before asking. "So where are you from Fen? Did you Grow up in the big city or more out in the country?"
"It was more out in the country actually, a small village named Norvegr on the outskirts of Vale. Although…" Fen's tone turned sad as memory of his former home. "It doesn't exist anymore, the Grimm saw to that years ago."
"Oh…" Yang muttered falling silent at this before saying in a kind voice. "Well I'm sorry that happened Fen, I really am. At least your ok though, otherwise we wouldn't have been able to meet."
The suddenness of what Yang's words shocked and embarrassed Fen, who pretended to shrug it off muttering "thanks" under his breath, his face turning red again as he quickly tried to change the subject.
Flynt, who had been watching the fight but listening in smirked at Fen's nervousness but said nothing, while Neon on the other hand could barely contain her giggling fit of laughter as she watched the two of them. About to open her mouth and make a joke about it she was interrupted by a sudden cheer from the crowd that was watching.
In the arena Weiss had just created an ice trap catching Morven by his foot that held him in place while she lept above him, coming down she kicked out her foot aiming for his face, the look of extreme concentration on her face as she descended upon him turning to shock as he caught her foot with his left hand.
"Gotcha Weiss," he said with grin preparing to pull her in close when suddenly his left wrist had one of her black glyphs around it holding it in place leaving him outstretched and exposed, obviously part of her plan as she smiled while another much larger white glyph appeared to her right.
Fen watching along with everyone else had his eyes widen in surprise when from Weiss's glyph a colossal armored arm wielding a massive sword materialized. Looking at the arm Fen could only think, "wow that's an aura construct, just like my wolves but on a much bigger scale. To think that she could create and control something that…" He watched in awe as the arm swung it's sword down at Morven who didn't seemed worried.
Making a split-second decision, Morven released the grip he had on Weiss's foot while at the same time with his right hand, stabbed up shattering the glyph that held him in place hitting Weiss, who blocked a majority of the hit with her blade but still lost a good chunk of aura. His eyes darting back to the large sword coming at him. Using the momentum from his attack he turned and angled Storm Razor forcing the attack to miss and impact the ground beside him. Like Weiss though the force of the attack took a chunk of his aura with it as part of the arena floor shattered under the strength of the blow covering the arena in a cloud of smoke.
"So there is that much difference between us that he fights the ice queen with his sword right off the bat, it's as if him and all these Atlas big shots are spitting in my face!" Fenrir thought as he clenched his fist tightly, watching as the fight ended at last the Faunus slumped further into his seat something that did not go unnoticed.
"Hey Fen are you ok?" Yang asked in a concerned look on her face, as she noticed the annoyed look on his face but before she could say anything they were interrupted by familiar voice.
"Aww what's the matter dog, you a little upset?" Winter said with a smirk looking at Fenrir, the anger on his face directed at the fight amusing her for some strange reason. Thinking to herself, "oh I see what it is. You're mad that my sister is on such a higher level huh," Winter said with a smirk.
Fenrir gave the older Schnee sly smirk before spitting, "that's cute do all Specialist act this obnoxious or are you just bitchy by nature!" Crossing his arms he gave Winter a glare and then added. "But then again,seeing how you act like such a schoolgirl around Morven I can see that being professional is difficult for you."
Narrowing her eyes, Winter opened her mouth to tell Fen off when the crowd roared again. Turning her eyes to the arena, as the smoke began to clear she caught sight of her sister lying on the outside. The referee shouting at the top of his lungs, "round over! Winner by ring out once again, Morven Kenrich!"
"Why am I not surprised," Fenrir said sarcastically looking through the fading smoke and spotting the Specialist, standing beside a large crater in the arena floor from Weiss's last attack. Looking closer however he noticed that Morven's right sleeve was torn and he had a big smile on his face, like something amazing had happened.
"Wow… She's gotten that much better with her control in such a short time? That's incredible," Yang whispered watching Weiss climb to her feet before shooting Morven a smile and shrugging. The older Specialist jumping down off the arena and returning her smile before they both were swarmed by people from the crowd commenting and asking questions about their fight.
Hearing Yang's comment Fen turned and looked at her, his eyes seeing the self-disappointment on her face as she watched her old teammate and understanding what she was feeling. "I guess she'd understand better than anyone else right now." He thought thinking how after his loss he felt the same doubt in his own strength. Thinking back to how it was the same way with his brother too, always faster and stronger then him, it was a rivalry where the difference in their strength was a widening gap.
"You know what this means right Yang?" Fen whispered getting her attention, their eyes meeting as she nodded. "Yeah, if we are going be fighting alongside these Specialists, we'll have to train even harder. Maybe even together if that's ok with you?" Yang finished flashing Fen another smile which he immediately returned.
Seeing the fight was over now Neon and Flynt also got to their feet and sighed. "Well it's been real cool catching up again blondie," Neon said spinning on her skates before taking off and calling back over her shoulder. "Maybe next time we can go another round! That is unless you're scared."
Watching her skate off cackling wildly Flynt sighed and shook his head apologetically. "What a headache. Sorry about that Yang, I'm sure you've figured by now that she's a little out there if you know what I mean. Anyways it's good to see that you're ok after what happened at Beacon and I hope you take care, and it was nice to meet you too… Fenrir?" Flynt asked carefully holding his hand out, not wanting to offend him.
"Yeah, although like the blonde here you can call me Fen," Fenrir replied accepting his handshake flashing the trumpeter a friendly smile.
"Well it's good to see that you're getting along with other now," Morven said interrupting them as he carried a disgruntled looking Weiss up the stairs, an amused expression on his own face while the Schnee in his arms continued to pout.
"Actually yeah," Yang said quickly answering before Fen could open his mouth. "Believe it or not we are going to start training together cause we have a goal now," pointing her finger at at the amused Specialist. "And that goal is to kick your ass next time we fight Morven."
"I'll be looking forward to a rematch against you two," Morven replied calmly gently setting Weiss down before standing up straight looking down on them, his face turning serious, although they could see the ghost of a smile still on his face as he said calmly. "That's a good goal to have but the two of you have a long road ahead of you if you're going to try and best me, luckily if you allow it." Morven's eyes fell to Fenrir who bared his teeth at him, "I'll train you myself. After all out there we'll be watching each other's backs, so we'll have to learn and trust each other's skills."
Still glaring at Morven, Fenrir scoffed while Yang nodded in agreement, a look of determination settling on her face as she pumped her fist before asking. "Alright well now that's said and done, now what?"
Winter exchanging a look with Morven sighed. "Well after discussing your results with the General, the team has been clearance for class two missions and below with personal preference a priority."
"And that's means what exactly?" Fenrir snapped crossing his arms staring the Schnee down, all this protocol and procedure finally starting to get to him.
"What it means is, we are leaving the choice of missions we go on to the two of you," Morven said gesturing to Yang and Fen before adding. "Unless it's a request from the General or higher, so this means that in between mission we will be training. But… After your hard work today I think you've earned some time off, so if there's anything you'd like to do for the rest of the day we can go ahead and do that."
"And what about tonight?" Winter asked giving her partner a sideways look, an unspoken question lingering in the air between them as Morven nodded.
"Ahh yes regarding tonight, well I believe a small celebration is in order now." Morven said smiling again. "A celebratory dinner sounds like a good way for the team to come together in agreement, if you would like Winter, you, Yang and Weiss are more then welcome to stay the night as well. I'm sure Floyd and Garreth would be thrilled to see the two of you again, as well as meet you Yang."
"Who would like to meet me?" Yang asked, a puzzled expression on her face till Fen nudged her. "Don't worry about them Yang, those are just Morven's two younger brothers. The youngest Garreth is actually a sweet kid. For a human that is," he added quickly noticing Morven's slight smile.
"Oh well we'd hate to impose on you and your family Morven," Winter began to stammer blushing slightly while her sister rolled her eyes and grabbed onto Morven's arm again cutting her off. "Thanks Morven, and we'd be happy to stay the night again, it's been far too long since our families have gotten together although this time it won't be about the tiresome business our fathers always talk about. You know like arranged marriages and continuing the family business," an evil grin crossing her face while her sister blushed even harder at the mention of marriage.
"Great some much for having a quiet night," Fenrir growled listening to the conversation from the sidelines, his eyebrow twitching in irritation at the nonchalant conversation between the Schnee's and Morven before he finally snapped and interrupted. "Hey you said we could be free the rest of the day right? And I know because of our deal I'm supposed to remain under your supervision, but that being said I'd like to get out of here and go do something."
Winter still a little red from her sister embarrassing her was about to open her mouth and snap back at the young wolf when Morven gently touched her shoulder and stopped her, turning his eyes to Fen he nodded and then asked. "So what was it you were trying to go do then, did you make a plan with Yang?"
"Yeah we decided that it would be a good idea to go shopping," Yang said cutting in, shooting a wink at Fen which wasn't missed by Morven. "I'd like to go shopping for some clothes and maybe dust modifications and ammo for our weapons, maybe also look around the city a little bit too if that's not too much trouble."
"Oh that's a great idea Yang," Weiss said joining the conversation. Her unusual cheery demeanor causing everyone gathered to give her strange looks which she promptly ignored, turning to Yang she took her hands and smiled again before adding. "I know this great place for clothes and you're probably more fun to shop with than Winter. They also have a big section of male clothes too, that is if your friend needs some new clothes as well?" Her last question being directed at Fenrir himself who gave Weiss a surprised look.
"Well I need to get some new gear, maybe some dust for my girls and some new clothes to keep warm in this icebox you people call Atlas, kinda wish I was back in Vale or Mistrial, at least there I didn't have to worry about getting sick." Fenrir said sarcastically blushing at the wink the blonde brawler sent him, his tail wagging slightly but luckily it went unnoticed by everyone except Morven who smiled for some reason.
"So it's decided then, I'll call the car back and we can all go together." Morven said excusing himself from the conversation and pulling out his scroll to make the call, while Yang and Fen awkwardly just stood there not knowing what else to say waiting for him to come back.
Figuring she'd have a minute, Weiss also excused herself and gestured for Flynt to join her and began talking to him in a low voice, Fenrir's sharp ears just barely being able to catch bits and pieces of their conversation before he nodded and bid his goodbye. Still though the bits of their talk he overheard had piqued his interest, and seeing it as a chance to tease the Weiss asked, "so what was that all about Weiss? Planning a date or something?"
At the mention of a date Weiss froze before shooting Fenrir a dirty look snapping irritatedly. "No that's not it at all, I was just inviting him to the event that my family is hosting in month. It's a charity ball for the tragedy in Vale, and rather just having just a bunch of stuffy business types I figured it would be better to have some fellow students come as well."
"Well that's nice of your family," Yang chimed in quietly. "It's nice to see that others are willing to help after such a tragedy, something that will be greatly appreciated by everyone back home."
Fenrir on the other hand scoffed and looked Weiss dead in the eye before saying coldly, "that sounds all nice and good but that's not the real reason your fathers doing this huh? If I had to guess, I'd say that this has a more to do with the SDC's self interest."
Weiss narrowed her eyes at this and nodded slowly her cross tone though not directed at Fen as she replied, "that's what I suspect as well, considering he wishes for me to perform before the actual party." Crossing her arms in a low voice so that only Fen and Yang could hear she muttered. "Once again I'm being treated like my father's trophy, it's unfair how I can't do anything to escape that fate."
Hearing this Fen couldn't help but allow a puzzled expression to cross his face, sure he had no love for the Schnee's, in fact he'd usually say he detested them for their treatment of Faunus. "Still it's sad anyway," he thought looking at Weiss the break in her haughty attitude towards him he couldn't help but wonder, maybe some of the many stories and rumors circulating about the Schnee's were just made up.
Pushing those thoughts from his mind Fen bit his tongue to hold back from voicing his own opinion, instead he turned and watched Morven walk back to the group.
"Alright everyone," he said getting the groups attention gesturing towards the exit. "I sent for a different car since we are all going together now, so it might take a minute longer to arrive. But while we have time there's a little food bar where we can grab a bite to eat before we head out, although I suggest you save your appetite for dinner tonight. After all it's not too often my mother and I get to help cook so it should be something special," Morven said with a small smile.
"You can cook? I figured that you had servants or chefs do that for you." Yang said trying to picture Morven in the kitchen, and then laughing at the image that came to mind before stopping and giving the Specialist a genuine smile. "That sounds great Morven I'm sure we'll all love it."
"Tsk," Fenrir exhaled sharply getting Morven's attention, his arms crossed as he rolled his eyes muttering. "It's not a big deal, I know how to cook as well," his tone causing Morven to raise an eyebrow in interest.
"Hmmm interesting, you must really want Yang's attention huh," he thought his eyes going from the wolf to the blonde and then back to the wolf. "In that case let's see if we can get you to open up Mr. Argyros." Giving the young wolf a friendly smile Morven then said, "you can cook as well? That's great, you can help us. It'll be a good time and you can show off what you know."
Grumbling under his breath, Fenrir was about to tell Morven to shove it when Yang interrupted. "Yeah wolfey help them cook, I'm sure your food will taste great as well." Yang's friendly smile stopping his retort causing him to just nod his head, a slight blush dotting his cheeks.
Everyone except Winter chuckled at this as the group made their way to the exit, when they reached the outside there was a large limousine waiting for them, the man standing beside it Fenrir recognized as the driver from before waiting for them.
Gesturing to the vehicle Morven said to the group, "alright everyone pile in. We should set some ground rules, since I know two of you aren't familiar with Atlas so Weiss will show you around. Winter and myself will be around as well in case anything happens." His eyes falling on Fenrir who shrugged and rolled his eyes again.
"Yeah yeah, from what I remember Ada… Our CO used to tell us during my time in the Fang that Atlas was a rough place for Faunus." Fen said quietly catching himself from mentioning his old mentors name. "But I guess his opinion may have been biased since so far the only real assholes here have been Lore and the Ice Queen," jerking his thumb towards Winter smirking.
"Hey listen here you flea ridden mutt!" Winter yelled after processing his comment while Fen climbed into limo, her blood boiling she prepared to go after him when a gentle hand came to rest on her shoulder. Turning angrily to see who it was she then met Morven's gaze and immediately calmed down, a slight blush appearing on her face at the realization. "That little punk." She hissed to herself shaking her head while Morven chuckled kindly.
"The young wolf learns pretty quickly, wouldn't you say Winter." Morven said with an amused expression on his face watching the students in the back, seeing they were settling in Morven then held out his hand and helped helped Winter into the Limo before climbing in himself signaling the driver they were ready to leave.
AN: Hello again everyone it's me TheBoredBoot, a thousand apologies for the wait on this latest chapter, but I've been spread a little thin due to a recent venture I've started. Because my partner has been a little busy I've decided that I may start dabbling in taking some requests for a few oneshots. If you're interested feel free to drop me a pm. For a sample of the style of oneshot also feel free to check out my little Rosewick short Crime Doesn't Pay. As for limits to what I'll write for these shorts it will really depend on the idea, just a warning. Anyway thank you again for reading this latest chapter and if you enjoyed it and have feedback, please follow and drop a review for us to check out.
Regards,
TheBoredBoot