Disclaimer: I don't own RWBY and the Tales of series they are the rightful property of RoosterTeeth and Bandai Namco.

Italics are thoughts

Bold and Italics are flashbacks

Bold are artes being performed

**Communications through scrolls and other devices

Chapter 11 On the same boat

(Time skip: three months after the heroes were sent to Remnant)

(Location: Schnee Dust Company Headquarters Solitas continent Kingdom of Atlas)

Yuri Lowell had to whistled staring at the large building before him. It had on the middle in large letters" SDC" which it stands for Schnee Dust Company surrounded by the Company's emblem which it's a snowflake. It was very fancy in the swordsman's opinion definitely the perfect place for a big time business. He has heard a lot about them mainly that they were main supplier of dust and fuel in the four kingdoms. They were pretty famous anyone who hasn't heard about the SDC must have been sleeping under a rock for like forever.

Dragging his sword Second Star and his bag with his things, the long haired swordsman entered the building. Yuri almost felt left out as he gazed at some of the people passing by they were all wearing fancy suits and here he was, wearing his usual attire. It hasn't really crossed his mind for a change of wardrobe. His focus was more on his business than everything else that's how it's been since he started his business. It's been a while since he left the continent of Anima.

After his fight with the tribe leader Raven Branwen, Yuri made sure to leave Anima for good and never return there. The masked woman warned him clearly if he ever sets foot in the continent again, she will kill him. After that he went back to what he's good at, being a mercenary. He traveled to different islands and continents, visiting some of the other kingdoms but it was mostly business not pleasure. So basically he never visited any place for the fun of it.

His done everything as a mercenary from being a body guard, to guard duty among others. Some of those jobs were" wrong in the eyes of justice". The long haired swordsman have done stealing and he has even accepted assassination missions. It's not that he enjoyed taking the life of someone but it was just a job. He gets paid for doing the work, nothing more. So he has come to regret a lot of his actions lately. His life wasn't perfect but it was the only one he knew.

Also that he still hasn't remember a thing about his past life. While his mind remains blank this is all he could do. Maybe he should start putting a limit in his services. Like no killing or stealing no matter how much lien they pay him. It will be tempting but he made up his mind not to do those kinds of jobs again. Body guard or guard duty was okay in his book or even a courier job. Imagine his surprise when he got a call from none other than the President and owner of the Schnee Dust Company.

After gaining quite the amount of lien he managed to buy a scroll, the latest version of the communication device. Yuri gave a grin feeling so flattered to have received a call from such an important and rich individual. Of course the man has heard about him and now he probably wanted to hire him for a job. What mattered the most to the long haired swordsman is how much he will pay him. The possibilities were endless he could see so much lien on the horizon for sure.

But it did made him wondered of the nature of the job. It must be something important if it was coming from a man who could probably buy his own army. Seriously this guy was filled with lien why hired a mercenary when he can create his own band of mercenaries that will directly serve him. Whatever it was the long haired swordsman wasn't going to question it. He called for him and now he was here. Time to put a good impression so he can earn positive points that might earn him another job in the future.

Yuri walked over to the reception desk seeing an elegant woman wearing a very elegant business dress. She was talking to the phone but she has seeing him and remain quiet waiting for her to finish the call. Once she was done the swordsman introduced himself as the mercenary known as" The Dark Enforcer". That was enough for the receptionist, she already knew who he was. She told him the president was expecting him and gave him directions to his office, where he wanted to meet with him.

The Dark Enforcer, the swordsman admitted the name sounded a bit evil. But it was strange because that was the only name he could come up with around the time. It's like the name was stuck on his brain somehow he didn't argued with it, so he went with it instead. Following the directions of the receptionist Yuri walked the hallways of the company building. He needed to take the elevator to the top where the president's office was located.

The building had over fifty floors so yeah, it was a lot and his client was all the way on the top. Reaching the area where the elevators stood he quickly pressed the button as one of the four were going down. Minutes later the doors opened as a crowd left, the swordsman entered hitting the button of the top floor of the building. The waiting game started as the elevator was about to close it's door to reach the destined floor. Just as the doors were about to closed, a hand went between them preventing the doors from closing.

Yuri saw the owner of the hand it was a young girl, teenager looking like she was around seventeen. She had white hair tied on a ponytail which it was on the opposite side where it should usually be making it a bit strange with a beautiful white binder holding her hair. Clear blue eyes with pale complexion, a scar on her right eye wearing a blue and white dress with a light blue bolero jacket and long light blue heels. There was something about her she was attractive but, she didn't looked to be his type. She was about to hit the button but stopped when she saw the lit button to the top floor.

Her face said it all, it was as cold as ice. She was upset the long haired swordsman could clearly see it. But what could have possibly happened to put her under such bad mood. Then her eyes met he's, he could see the coldness in those eyes. It's as if one stare from this girl and he will be frozen on the spot. Now Yuri knew better than to asked someone who looked like it was ready to commit bloody murder. So he will play it safe and stay silent after he was any other man who values their life.

"Good morning" the white haired girl said even if she was upset she was kind enough to say the two words.

"Morning…." he replied in his usual tone but his conscious kicked in making him say more" who are you murdering?"

"Excuse me?" she was shocked turning to him" what did you just said?"

"Not to sound rude but your face says" I'm going to kill someone" so who's the poor bastard?"

She blinked a few times and she did seemed amused for a second especially hearing the poor bastard part" no, I'm not murdering anyone. I need to speak to someone and hopefully he will understand and listen to my...Demands" she muttered the last word.

"Well good luck wouldn't want to be in the guy's shoes."

"No, you wouldn't" she turned to him gazing at his clothes" you definitely don't work here aren't you?"

"What gave it away? The clothing it has to be the clothing. All these people wearing expensive suits not me. I like to go traditional."

"I'm afraid to ask why are you here? I don't usually see people like you."

"I'm here on possible business. Like you there's someone I need to talk to."

The white haired girl was about to ask him who was this person but the ring sound of the elevator interrupted her. She has arrived on her floor destination.

"Hey what a coincidence, we're going the same floor. Didn't realize it until now."

"I have to get going, good day" she left heading into the hallway.

"Same" Yuri smiled but she probably didn't heard him since she was in a hurry.

The long haired swordsman finally left the elevator as it closed it's door. Remembering the directions of the receptionist he went straight ahead which it was the same direction the girl went. Before him were a pair of crystal clear double doors with a very elegant and expensive office. There was a woman wearing an even elegant business dress than the one the receptionist was wearing.

She was seated on her desk and to the mercenary's surprise the white haired girl was there talking to the woman whom he guessed it was the President's personal secretary. The girl didn't looked happy, she seemed to be more upset and agitated than before. Now Yuri felt sorry for her surely she didn't deserved to be like this, even if he didn't knew her or even her name. She kept arguing with the secretary while he got closer to the office. The clear door slide opened as he slowly entered not wanting to interrupt the white haired girl.

"What do you mean he doesn't want to see me?!"

"I'm sorry but the President gave me strict orders not to let you in. He told me he has nothing to say to you after the last discussion, his words not mine."

"So she's here to see the President too?" Yuri kept over hearing as he decided to get seated in one of the many nice comfy seats.

"Tell him I need to talk to him now! It is urgent."

"The President's schedule is currently full at the moment and he's a very busy man. You know that better than anyone. He has more important business to attend. I am sorry Miss Schnee."

"Miss Schnee?" the long haired swordsman was shocked" then she's…."

"So my own father refuses to see me or speak to me. I'm not surprise it's to be expected. He has put his foot down and there's nothing I can do. His decision is final" she nodded trying to hide her hurt.

"She's the President's daughter…."

"I'm sorry Miss Schnee. Maybe you can come back another day. Who knows he might change his mind."

"We both know that won't happen. I know my father better than anyone" Weiss gave a soft sigh" I'll be on my way then, thank you. Oh and tell him if he has even the slightest love for his younger daughter he should at least make the effort to speak to me."

She left without looking at anyone passing the long haired swordsman. Yuri managed to see a tear sliding down her right cheek. Whatever reason she wanted to talk to her father it must be very important that she will come here, to his place of work. But what will he know, he knew nothing of the situation so it wasn't his business to pry even, if it felt wrong.

Once she was gone he got up and walked over to the desk of the secretary. He gazed seeing that the young Schnee was currently waiting on the elevator. He did felt sorry for her but he didn't had time to talk to her. The swordsman had business with her father there was no time to play the good Samaritan. Finally he saw her entering the elevator and with that she was out of his sight as the doors closed.

"Yes, can I help you?" the secretary was a bit taken back by the sight of him taking notice of his attire.

"I'm Yuri Lowell. The President is currently expecting me."

"Let's see…." the woman was checking on her agenda" yes Yuri Lowell. Indeed you have an appointment with Mr. Schnee, right on time" she pressed a button on her voice box" sir Mr. Yuri Lowell is here to see you."

*Tell him to come in* said a cringed voice.

"Yes sir. You can come in the President is in his office just go straight ahead the first door you see you can't miss it."

"Thanks a lot" he gave her a cordial smile at least to show her that he has some good manners.

Women like her are probably used to seeing men in suits acting polite all the time. Leaving the secretary's desk he went straight ahead in the hallway seeing two wooden double doors. But the wood was very shiny it was definitely high quality material. What to expect from a multi-million lien company like the SDC. As the mercenary got close to the doors there was no need to knock since the man was already awaiting him. He opened one of them entering the place.

His eyes widened the office was very big. It was also very well decorated with some top notch furniture, even a fireplace. Of course the perfect office for the President of the company. At the end stood a large highly decorated desk and the first thing Yuri caught was the golden plate on the front. It said" Jacqess Schnee" that was obviously his name. This clears that he's indeed the father of that girl whom he refused to see and talk. Pretty much he knew he was a strict and cold heart man in other words, an asshole.

Jacquess was an older man probably looking somewhere in his early to hid forties. He had pale complexion with white hair, white mustache with light blue eyes. Obviously the same physical traits as his daughter. He was wearing a white suit with a red tie. Yuri came to the conclusion that the Schnee family must have a thing for the color white. They do have white hair after all so the affection must be a generic trait. His face meant business, really serious and he looked if you say the wrong word he will have you thrown out of his office before you can say" asshole President". Now he really felt bad for that girl, for being his daughter.

"Yuri Lowell welcome. Please have a seat."

"It's an honor to be here" the swordsman walked over to his desk, getting seated on the pair of seats standing before the furniture.

"I'm Jacquess Schnee President and owner of the Schnee Dust Company. Pleased to meet you."

"Your office gave me the idea who you are."

"Would you like something to drink? I can ask Miranda to fix you a nice cold beverage."

"That's okay. I don't feel like drinking."

"As you wish. Now Mr. Lowell I will get straight to the point since I know you must be a very busy man. If you guessed I called you here because I'm in need of your services, then you have guessed right."

The long haired swordsman wanted to tell him about his policy of not doing missions that require killing someone or stealing something. He was done with those jobs. But maybe he shouldn't bring them in with such a man. This guy can pay him any amount it should be for the best if he listens to the job he has for him first before telling him his policies. Not that he was greedy but he was aware you need to have lien if you want to survive in this world. It was also his job as a mercenary, he gets paid for fulfilling a mission no matter how dangerous it is. It was no better than the missions huntsmen and huntresses do which require them to always put their lives at risk.

"I'm all ears."

"Good. I need you to guard something of extreme value to me and my company."

"That's a relief. So much for telling him I don't do killing jobs and stealing."

"I do hope you accept this job because I'm afraid you don't have enough time to make up your mind. There's a large cargo train filled with my company's dust bound for the kingdom of Vale. It's set to leave from Atlas station in exactly two hours. I need you to board it and guard that dust with your life. I've heard of your many exploits Mr. Lowell so I know you won't have a problem with this task."

"I'm flattered the President of the SDC has a lot faith in me. Sure I'll do it though you won't mind if I ask, your placing the safety of your company's dust in the hands of one man?"

"Not at all, sorry if I have disappointed you. But you won't be alone in the task. I have already contacted Atlas private security to look after the cargo."

"So you came prepared, thought as much. Any idea who I will be guarding the dust from?"

"I'm glad you asked" Jacquess's eyes narrowed for a moment he got up from his seat walking over to the large glass window giving an amazing view of the kingdom of Atlas" I'm pretty certain you have heard of the White Fang?"

"That's the group composed of faunus right?"

"Indeed. They're nothing but a terrorist group filled with stinky faunus. For a while they have had a war with my family and my company. They have kidnapped employees of mine and even business partners. Those people are very valuable to the future of this company. In addition they have stolen dozens of my dust. Those actions can't be avoided or forgiven. There's no doubt they will try to attack and rob the train."

"You expect they will try to rob the dust from the train?"

"I'm positive, there's no way they will miss a chance such as this. Your job is to protect that dust at all cost. If the White Fang arrives don't hesitate to kill any of it's members. I will appreciate if you can take pictures of your downed targets so I can pay you more. Those dirty faunus deserve nothing but death."

Great so he wasn't just an asshole but he hates faunus too. That kind of mentality was truly ignorant. Yuri didn't had a problem with faunus he was never one to discriminate with others. Sure, faunus may look different with having animal physical traits but they still seemed like ordinary people to him. Also the job might force him to kill, he cursed mentally.

The long haired swordsman could care less about getting pay additionally but he wasn't planning to take lives. It didn't mattered if those lives belong to a terrorist group like the White Fang. Now he was wishing if the group don't attempt to steal the dust cargo. He saw as the company President has taken a briefcase from underneath his desk. Yuri made a guess what could be inside of it.

"Here's your early payment. I trust you have no objections."

Yuri opened it as his eyes widened from the shock. Holy crap it was filled with the lien of five thousand. Easily there could be five hundred thousand, even a million in the briefcase. In his career as a mercenary he has never seen so much lien ever. And this was supposed to be the" early payment" he didn't wanted to know what will be the rest of it. He didn't had any objections whatsoever. With this amount, he won't have to take any jobs for months. He'll be free as a bird and he might even take a vacation from work. The swordsman knew it all along this was going to be the best job in his entire career.

"You will get the rest of the payment once you do the job. And as I said I will pay you extra for every member of the White Fang you killed remember to show me pictures to confirm the kills. Nevertheless this job will make you rich Mr. Lowell, if done correctly that is."

"All I can say it's a pleasure doing business with you Mr. President" he smiled ignoring the killing part as he closed the briefcase.

"Take this with you" Jacquess handed him an SDC VIP card" with it you won't need to buy a train ticket. Just show it to any member of the security team and they will let you board the train. I have a high expectations of you Mr. Lowell please, do not disappoint me. Don't make me regret giving you so much money."

"You won't, you have my word. Just make sure you get ready the rest of my payment. I've done jobs a whole lot harder than this one."

"Time's a wasting. I suggest you make haste for the station. You do know where Atlas train station is located?"

"I do. I did came here by train after all" Yuri wanted to bring the topic of his daughter badly but with the amount of lien he has given him, he controlled his big mouth from opening.

"Then this concludes our meeting. I look forward to hear your report" Jacquess didn't bothered to give the mercenary a handshake.

"See ya" the long haired swordsman wasn't bothered with the absent of a handshake.

As he left the office Miranda his secretary entered shortly, she seemed worried" sir I know it's not my business to ask but, who was that man?"

"No need to concern yourself with Miranda. Just a dog for hire, nothing more."

Jacquess never realized Yuri did heard him from the end of the hallway.

(Location: Atlas Train Station)

Yuri had a big smile on his face as he walked the station terminal. After leaving the SDC HQ building he took all the lien and put it into his bag. As for the briefcase he threw it away, it was too fancy for his taste. Honestly it didn't bothered him the President's comment of him being a" dog for hire" well this dog for hire is filthy rich right now with only this early payment. It didn't mattered if he succeeds or fails in this job he had plenty of lien for a long vacation and not do jobs for a long time.

But he will still make sure that he succeeds on this job in order to get the rest of his payment. Sometimes, greed was good and right now he was feeling greedy. Better get the whole package for better results. Besides, this job was going to be so easy. If he gets lucky the White Fang won't come after all earning the lien for free. Though it will be too good to be true he wouldn't mind if it does happen. Easy money can happen to the least person and today Yuri was hoping he gets his chance.

The mercenary didn't had to wait in line to buy a ticket thanks to the VIP card Jacquess gave him. All he needed to do now is find the train he'll be boarding. It didn't took him that long to find it. Seeing an armored train that said" Schnee Dust Company" with the snowflake emblem was a dead give away to know he has found the place for his job. Outside of the train stood men in silver armor with high tech weaponry. Those rifles looked very dangerous guess to expect from a kingdom like Atlas.

Those men must be the security team the President hired to guard the dust cargo. He didn't minded having company for the ride it will make the job less boring. All Yuri needed was to show them the card and they will let him those were Mr. Schnee's words. He will give it a try since he didn't had much time left. Only half an hour before the train departs. The swordsman approached one of the high tech armored men giving him a smile.

"The President told me to show you this" he showed him the SDC VIP card.

"He told us he hired a mercenary for added muscle. The card is proof enough it's you. You're allow to board."

"Thanks."

The long haired swordsman board the train and went to find a comfortable corner. This was a cargo train so he doubted there will be passengers cart to lie and rest. He went deeper into the carts everywhere he go it was filled with steel crates with the company's emblem, the dust obviously. Yuri was able to find that resting corner not too far from one of the last carts. Getting seated he was able to feel the cold metallic floor.

This was going to be a long day, he could feel it. It was going to be hard to get any sleep under these conditions but he might be able to rest since the trip to Vale will be two and a half hours. If he arrives there with no unwelcome interference, he will get his payment. He put his bag next to him along with his sword and try to close his eyes. The sound of footsteps entering the train caught his attention. Looks like the security team was ready to move out.

"I hope it doesn't take too long to get to Vale or I might get bored. If that's the case, the White Fang better try to rob this train."

(Time skip)

Yuri woke up with a yawn checking his scroll an hour has passed since the train left Atlas station. Another and thirty minutes before reaching their destination. Realizing he wasn't going to get any more rest due that his corner wasn't that comfortable, he got up and decided to have a look around. He doubted any of the security team members will have some cards to play and pass the time. These guys were supposed to be serious if President Schnee hired them or the real deal.

This cargo of dust was that important to him and his company so he couldn't risk losing it to thieves or better yet, the White Fang. The mercenary thought if the faunus group would really go that far to rob this train. From what he has heard from them they were terrorist who will steal and kidnapped anyone of interest. According to Jacquess they have gone as far as kidnapping his employees and business partners. Yuri wondered if they have also kidnapped any family members.

With what he has known of the man, Jacquess looked like he could care less about his family. It was obvious he care more for his company than the latter. He might be an asshole but he was an asshole filled with lien. Now the long haired swordsman was looking for some action, hoping the White Fang does show up. The job will be too easy if the train arrives at Vale without him doing some fighting. Yuri stretched his arms and muscles taking a glance at the small window from the cart.

Nothing but water since they were still crossing the border. There were some terrain in the far horizon but that will be western region of the kingdom of Vacuo. It won't be long before the reach the Vale border. Checking his scroll again, give minutes has only passed since he woke up. Yuri sighed he hated when time moves so slow. Maybe a small tour around the cargo train will kill his boredom. Let's see if some of these guys can keep him entertain at least, with some lame jokes.

"Easy money all right. It's nice but I'm not used of always happening to me. No job I have ever taken has been this easy before. I'm not asking for much at least some quick action."

As if the Gods above have heard his thoughts they have granted his demand. The sound of clashing steel and gun fire has caught the ears of the long haired mercenary. He blinked looks like he spoke too soon. A grin has formed on his lips that was the sound of conflict, of fighting. Finally, action exactly what he needed to kill time. Yuri left the cart where he was staying at as the sound were being hear clearly. It sounded like it was coming from a few carts ahead not wasting time, the swordsman entered another cart hoping to catch the intruders.

What kind of mercenary he will be if he doesn't fight the bastards that will have the guts to infiltrate this cargo train. Do his job, beat them up and kick them off the train because there was no way he will be killing them. He will passed of what Jacques told him regarding of paying extra if he shows him picture of the dead White Fang members. That was still the issue he couldn't tell yet if this was really the work of the faunus group.

The sounds were getting closer as he left another cart. The more he heard the more excited Yuri was getting. It's been a while since he's had a good fight maybe this conflict will keep him amused. A lot of fire could be heard looks like the security team were having a blast without him. That will soon change once he enters the fray. Entering another cart he was very close to the action before the mercenary made a complete stop.

His eyes widened as he stared at dozens of dead bodies from the security soldiers. What in Remnant happened here, this was a massacre. Now he knew whoever were these guys were dead serious in robbing the dust from this train. His eyes were calm and focused, carefully walking to the next cart. The door slid opened gazing that the coast was clear. Suddenly someone has pulled him in as Yuri was ready to strike the person with his sword.

"It's me…." the swordsman saw one of the security soldiers as the one who pulled him in thinking he was the enemy.

"You almost scared the living crap out of me" he sighed in relief.

"What's going on?"

"The White Fang…."

"So they came after all. Looks like the President was right all along."

"It happened all of the sudden, from out of nowhere. They started ambushing us one by one. Then, they went serious no holding back. Well, you saw the last cart."

"Not a pleasant sight. Any idea how many of them?" asked the long haired swordsman.

"Two."

"Only two?" Yuri was shocked only two White Fang members have done all of that back in the last cart.

"Don't let numbers fool you. Those two are skilled and deadly" the soldier checked his rifle" not enough ammo, I won't be able to do much. I hope the mechanized units are having better luck."

"I'm going" the mercenary tightened his hold on Second Star.

"Don't underestimate them."

Yuri left the car where the security soldier was. The sounds of heavy fire and steel clashing were closer more than ever. His dark eyes narrowed as he entered the cart. They got louder as his eyes were fixated ahead and he saw the two White Fang members. They were currently fighting one of the mechanized units of the security team. There were other mechs that were trashed along with their pilots, dead.

One of the faunus was a man in his early twenties with red hair wearing a white mask with strange lines and designs, wearing a black trench coat with black shirt, black pants and black shoes. The horns on the top of his head gave the mercenary the idea that he was a bull species faunus. He had a long red sword similar to a katana with a black sheath that he was firing as a rifle, it was a sheath that was a gun. The way he fought was enough to tell Yuri that he was very skilled and experienced, truly a dangerous opponent. Maybe he was in the same level as Raven, that was no small feat.

The second faunus was a girl looking younger than the male, around seventeen. She had long raven black hair with a black bow, amber eyes, olive complexion wearing an attire different from the male. It was a combination of black with white and the end of her stockings changed from black to purple. Her weapon seemed to be a black mechanized katana that can transform into a sickle and she was also using the sheath to attack.

Yuri guessed it must be pretty sharp if she was using it as a weapon. She was skilled her moves were quick, precise and graceful but he noticed something different. She was attacking with no killing intent on the contrary to the male faunus who was attacking with the intent to kill. The long haired mercenary guessed it must have been him the one who killed all those soldiers in that cart. Another reason why he was dangerous he has shed blood too many times and that makes him a very challenging opponent.

The pilot of that mech unit wasn't going to last another minute with how badly it was getting beaten. Now he understood why they were able to caused so much damage and casualties. He was the only one who could stop them otherwise, it will be game over for the dust cargo of the train. Yuri focused on the two White Fang members. His obvious choice will be the female faunus first.

He can take her down without killing her but he will have to be careful, she was good. Save the worst for last the faunus swordsman was going to be pretty tough to beat. The long haired swordsman was lucky to see more security soldiers, ground forces as well as more mechanized units. This will make things easier for him to fight the two faunus. The more numbers on his favor the better the chances he has of winning. He wasn't a gambling man but it was time to bet the odds on him.

(Music: "From Shadows" from the RWBY volume 1 original soundtrack by Jeff Williams and Cassie Lee Williams)

Just as Yuri thought the male faunus was focusing more on the mechanized units than the soldiers on foot. That was more the focus of the female faunus which means it was his chance to go after her. He will have back up and strength in numbers. Hopefully they will last, the long haired swordsman reminded himself how fast and skilled she is. In an instant their weapons clashed as their eyes met, onyx meeting amber. The mercenary showed her his skills giving her a run for her money, or so he thought.

She was faster than he thought while the security soldiers fired their weapon, she was evading their fire. Yuri went with his artes Shinning Fang with Dragon Swarn. It made contact with the female faunus at least that's what he thought at first when suddenly she was gone. She appeared in another direction changing her sword into a pistol, firing back against the soldiers. Changing it back into a sickle wrapping it with a black ribbon she escaped the cart.

"Guess that weapon is very handy."

Yuri didn't wasted time going after her noticing the soldiers turned their attention back to the male faunus. He was done with all mechanized units it was better this way. He left the cart going after her alone. The long haired swordsman saw the amber eyed faunus outside into a couple of carts that were open. There was no escape that was the advantage he had over her. However, she looked like she was checking for something.

The mercenary went for the attack remembering he still had another tougher opponent to handle after. Using Azure Edge the raven haired faunus went with the same trick of dodging and leaving a replica of herself behind, to take the attack. Finally, the mercenary put two in two realizing that it must be her semblance. Clashing weapons again it seemed both were as fast and skilled while she was trying to find for an opening.

Using artes will make her use her semblance again, those clones were very handy too. The fight will have to be decided who was the better fighter using a sword. It looked like Yuri was in a disadvantage since the faunus was using two weapons counting her sharp sheath. It didn't fazed him he hide his grin. If this wasn't another job he will say this fight was very fun. This opponent was something else, a sparring match with her will be great.

But since he was here to protect the dust cargo and look after himself, this fight was serious. The fight resumed while female faunus was starting to get frustrated at this guy, he was better than all the security soldiers combined. While Adam was still busy with the other forces, this could finally be her chance to get away. It was a shame, this guy wasn't giving her a break. She might never get another chance like this one and she was willing to do anything.

"You're pretty good" he smiled in this situation.

She didn't answered him focusing more on the fight. Yuri wouldn't wanted another way she doesn't looked like the kind of person that will reply to him" you're pretty good too". Her face and her composure says she takes everything seriously. This fight wouldn't be any different. The mercenary needed to hurry any second now the male faunus will be done with everyone and, he will come here. Fighting these two on his own wasn't going to be favorable for him.

He was having trouble with this one, the other one was bad news. Looks like it was too late as the black masked swordsman emerged from the cart turning his attention towards him. Just perfect this job has turned from bad to worse. And to think he thought it was going to be an easy one relaxing, enjoying the ride to Vale. The long haired swordsman thought using over limit might give him an edge and he might last longer against both of them.

"Don't see much of a choice here…."

(Music end)

The raven haired faunus finally saw an opening to get away from the long haired swordsman. She ran off to the next open cart, her eyes were on piece of metal that will keep the carts attached to the train. It was now or never she has made her choice the moment she went with this mission. Adam wasn't the same person she once knew, a complete different person who she couldn't recognized anymore.

It was time for a brand new start and all she wanted was to get away from this group. How she regretted her words to her parents but without giving it another thought she used her weapon to cut through the metal, detaching the cart. The long haired man who she was fighting stopped on his tracks seeing the cart getting further away from the train. Her amber eyes were on her former partner the red haired swordsman stood in place probably not happy with her decision.

"Goodbye" she whispered.

"Oh no you don't!"

The unthinkable just happened as Yuri jumped from the cart he was in to the one where the amber eyed faunus stood. She was shocked to see that he barely made it with the jump. She wasn't expecting he will go this far but there was no need to fight anymore. He wasn't an enemy since she was no longer on Adam's side. But that's now how he saw it. The man kept his sword ready to resumed their fight.

She didn't had a choice as she kept a hold of her weapon Gambol Shroud. She saw there was no point in fighting but that's not how he saw it. They clashed their weapons again as he was being more fierce than last time. Now the amber eyed faunus was having trouble keeping up with him. His attacks were faster and it was getting harder to try and anticipate his moves. At this point she was only defending herself not fighting for the sake of the mission. Since he wasn't a member of the security team, he must be someone else the SDC has hired to accompany the soldiers.

"Stop!" she shouted at him" I'm not your enemy!"

"I believe you I have nothing against you personally. But you boarded the train, you tried to rob the dust cargo and you're a member of the White Fang. That gives me plenty of reasons to stop you."

"I'm not with the White Fang anymore! I just left!"

"Riiight sure and here you are. You just bailed on your partner back there."

"Because I left the White Fang!" she was getting frustrated this guy was sure being stubborn.

There was a loud noise making Yuri turned the other way. It was huge until he saw where it was coming from. The direction was coming from the train a big explosion the mercenary was able to see it from where he was standing. He stood shocked thinking of the rest of the security soldiers the explosion was strong enough to probably take the entire train. He turned to the raven haired faunus who had her head lowered in shame.

"No...Adam you really went through with it."

"What the hell was that!?" he glared at the female faunus" what did you do?!"

"I...We knew the odds were against us so Adam my partner, told me if we can't have the dust then no one will...So he-"

"Plant blast charges all over the train!" Yuri was really upset thinking of all those lives that were taken" you knew about it and you still let it happened. Why should I believe a word you say? How can I believe you really left the White Fang?"

"You will have to take my word for it" she replied calmly" you know nothing of me and I know nothing of you. I know it won't be easy, but you will have to trust me."

"Trust you!? After what just happened, I'm finding it hard to trust you. So far you haven't given me a valid reason to put my trust in you."

"Think whatever you like, this fight is over" she sheathed her weapon putting the black mechanized katana on her sharp sheath, putting everyone on her back.

"This better not be a trick."

"I won't fight you anymore because you're not my enemy. I quit the White Fang whether you believe me or not, it's up to you. I don't care if you don't trust me either."

Yuri kept pointing his sword at her. But she stood still not making another move. Maybe he should believe her, she didn't looked that much of a hostile. It did seemed like she was holding back at the train. It's like she didn't wanted to hurt anyone unlike her partner. The mercenary kept his eyes on her while she rolled her eyes not doing anything. Maybe she was right, she quit the White Fang so it wouldn't hurt if he believes her.

Trusting her was a complete different issue, but it wouldn't hurt to believe her. He finally sheathed Second Star staring at the female faunus. Taking a better look at her he realized she was a looker, very pretty and exotic. She gave a whole new meaning to the term" rare beauty". He controlled himself, this wasn't the time to be thinking with his hormones. Though it has slipped his mind that time he slept with Raven. Yuri shook those thoughts away getting back to the matter at hand staring at the amber eyed beauty.

"Okay Miss Faunus you win. I won't fight you guess we can call it a truce. If that's okay with you."

"It's fine, I accept your truce" she extended her hand.

The mercenary grinned giving her hand a shake before he pulled her closer to him shocking her.

"What are you doing?!" her cheeks suddenly got red due to the closeness of their faces and lips.

"Look I appreciate the thought of you leaving the White Fang, good for you I'm overjoyed with tears. But that doesn't mean I'm going to easily forget your actions back at the train. It doesn't change the fact you were a member and that you chose to help a mad man in attempting to rob a cargo train filled with dust from the SDC or blow it up. Real shame I failed my job and I won't be collecting the rest of my payment but maybe I might get some sort of reward if I turn you over to the local authorities" he finished with a grin.

"What?" amber eyes widened from the shock" you can't do that!"

"Oh yes I can. Everyone knows the White Fang are a terrorist group making you a criminal. Doesn't matter if you're a former member it won't erase your past crimes. The Police will find enough charges to keep you lock up in a jail cell."

"You don't understand, if I go to jail Adam will eventually find me and he will kill me!"

"That sounds true, your partner won't be happy for your betrayal. Hopefully he won't find you before they send you to one of those prisons. Instead of being worried about your jealous ex finding you I think you should be more concern of not dropping the soap. I heard those women prison are filled with lesbians, sounds like any man paradise but bad for people like you."

"You think this is a joke?!" she glared at him for not taking her seriously" my life is at stake here, don't you care?!"

"Should I? Why should I care for what happens to you? Give me one good reason why I should care for a former White Fang member who probably has quite the criminal record on her?"

She didn't answered, she couldn't say a word because it was true. She couldn't give him a reason because she has done a lot of things she ain't proud of. The White Fang changed her, it probably turned her into a monster and she couldn't say a sing reason for a stranger like this guy to care for her life. Nothing, not one valid reason for him to care for her. Might as well let him take her to the Police she truly belongs in a cell.

Her thoughts were interrupted when she felt herself getting pushed to the ledge of the lone train cart. Apparently the cart was losing control since it was taking a tight turn through the train tracks. But the long haired swordsman have taken her hand just in time. He must really want to send her to jail that he will risk his life for her. He kept his hold on her trying to push her back up.

"Hang on!"

"Let me go! I refuse to rot in jail, I'd rather die."

"That's very melodramatic and all but that's not what I want. If there's something I can do about it, then I will do it. And I'm not letting you die so be thankful than I'm willing to save someone like you."

Her eyes widened when she saw another tight turn. This time the lone cart wasn't going to hold" look out!"

Yuri turned to the direction she warned him, but it was too late the cart lost control flipping as it fell to the water. Both the mercenary and the raven haired faunus fell too, looking as both have drowned.

Blake slowly opened her eyes thinking she was dead at first. But she was wrong, she felt so alive and that's when she realized something was very wrong. Amber eyes widened she was tied up in both her hands and her feet. There was a fire near by and she already had an idea of what happened after they fell into the water. Gazing around there was no one around or so she thought. That long haired guy was here and he was the one who tied her up.

Looks like he was serious about sending her to the authorities. She tried to break free but it was futile, the knots were tied tight enough. Whoever was this guy, he was pretty clever. And speak of the devil he arrived holding a couple of fishes picking a stick on the fishes, putting them by the camp fire. The young man looked very calm as he got seated on a tree trunk. The raven haired girl glared at him and he responded with a smile. He didn't looked that hostile from when she fought him.

"Glad to see you awake. Good thing I performed mouth to mouth just in time."

"What?" her whole face turned red, this guy performed CPR on her.

"Can't take a joke?" he was grinning" you were only unconscious. No need for mouth to mouth."

She glared at him again this time due to his rude joke and once more, he smiled at her as it didn't bothered him.

"Hope you like fish" the long haired swordsman smiled at her" actually, I have a strong hunch you like fish."

She blinked when she saw him pointing to the top of his head. Her eyes widened from the shock that's when she realized she wasn't wearing her black bow. Her cat ears were exposed while he was holding the familiar ribbon so she can clearly see it.

"Looking for this? Don't worry I'll hold it for you."

"Where are we?" she finally spoke.

"On the outskirts of the kingdom of Vale. The cargo train made it to the Vale border. I managed to carry you from the water all the way here."

This time he wasn't joking and she stood in thought. So he saved her from dying, she should feel grateful but not when he had intentions to send her to the police. Being behind bars was a very bad idea because Adam will no doubt find her and make her pay for her betrayal. She will be a whole lot safer if she was currently hiding somewhere in Remnant but being in Vale was really bad.

Though she figured he must know she was in the Sonus continent by now. Her escape from the faunus group turned out to be an epic fail. Sure she left her partner making her retreat from the White Fang but now, she was the prisoner of some guy whom she still didn't know. Her eyes fell to the fish that was getting cooked in the camp fire. Now that she thought about it, she hasn't eaten in a while. Damn, that fish sure looked good. Her stomach started growling while he heard and chuckled at her.

"Someone's hungry. Be patient, just a little more."

She ignored her hunger staring at him" why are you doing this?"

"Thought I'd explained myself back at the train. I take you to the police, I get reward money end of story everyone's happy...Well except for you."

"Is that all you care about, money?"

"No really I'm doing it more because there will be one less White Fang member to worry about, behind bars."

"I told you I'm not with the White Fang anymore I left! I ran from them I...I turned my back on them."

"And you think the authorities will care if you left them? Once a criminal always a criminal."

"….…."

She wanted to cry but she refused to do it in front of him, he will pay for this. If she could only break free she will beat the crap out of him and then escape. Only thing she could do is keep glaring at him. The long haired young man has picked the stick with the fish in it as he walked over to her, getting seated next to her. He offered her the cooked fish and she didn't refused taking a bite.

It tasted heavenly, so good or maybe because she was too hungry to realize it. The cat faunus took a couple more bites damn it the fish was delicious that's when her full hunger was unleashed. She could probably ate six of them. Yuri was amused at the sight good thing he caught a few more fishes. Honestly he didn't believed her when she first said she left the White Fang. But the tone of her voice, she was being sincere. Guess he pity her and he did felt bad for her. Though she picked the wrong time to leave a terrorist organization.

"Another one?"

The raven haired girl only gave a soft nod her hunger was that bad. The long haired swordsman picked another fish that was already done and returned to her. She went for the attack on the fish without any mercy, guess she was thankful that he wasn't going to let her die of hunger.

"Yuri Lowell" he introduced himself.

She swallowed the piece turning to him" Blake Belladonna."

"We have that out of the way now...Blake, why did you left the White Fang?"

"Why do you want to know? You said clearly you don't care about me. There's no reason I can give you that you will care. Isn't that what you told me?"

"Then give me a reason to care. I want to give you the benefit of the doubt."

"Why so interested all of the sudden?" she took another bite from the fish.

"Honestly I don't feel like sending you to the police. You look like a good person who was hanging out with the wrong crowd. That's my opinion anyway" he smiled and this time Blake like it, so sweet and gentle.

"Tell you what. If you can convince me your reasons for leaving are valid I will cut those off and let you go. No questions asked."

"This better not be another joke or so help me-"

"Scout's honor" Yuri smiled giving the sign.

She rolled her eyes finding his humor funny" if you want to know why I left, might as well tell you the whole story."

"I'm listening."

"First of all the White Fang wasn't always the group that exist today. Originally it was founded as a group that was fighting for faunus civil rights. It's purpose was to bring equality for faunus."

"Equality for faunus, that sounds about right. I've seen some nasty things during my travels. Faunus being treated like they were garbage. People can be so stupid taking their hatred on them."

"I was born into the White Fang you can say it runs in the family. I joined them because I believe in that vision for equality. We will always held rallies and protests so that everyone can hear our voice and for other faunus to join our cause" her eyes met he's.

"That was the White Fang I was so proud of. That was the White Fang I would fight for...The same group I would give my life for. Then one day, everything changed when the current leader and founder of the White Fang stepped down and a new one took his place. Someone who had a complete different vision from the original leader."

"I know where you're heading with this. Don't have to be a genius to know that this new leader decided to change the agenda from a faunus right group to a terrorist group."

"That's right, everything changed for the worse. The White Fang was transformed into a group of crime I thought that everything I was doing was for the sake of equality. But I was so wrong, I was so stupid to think it was all for equality. Every deed I did I regret it. There's no equality for faunus with stealing, kidnapping people and even murder. I finally had enough I no longer wanted to be in the group. So I left, probably in the worse time but I made up my mind the moment Adam came up with that train robbery."

"…..."

"So there you have it my sad little story. Don't know if it will be enough to convince you but I mean no harm. I just couldn't stay another minute in the White Fang. I had to get away from them."

"What are you going to do now?"

"Assuming you don't send me to the police? I don't know yet. I haven't thought that far ahead. Maybe I'll find a new life, one that has nothing to do with crime."

"A new life sounds fine with me. They say everyone deserves a second chance…." Yuri trailed off.

The long haired swordsman started thinking everything he went through since he woke up in Remnant. His travels as a mercenary, meeting Raven and the tribe, joining them, sleeping the tribe leader, finding out they were murderers and thieves, his depart from the tribe, fighting the red eyed woman, leaving Anima returning as a mercenary and resuming his travels through the other kingdoms. Everything he did during his past jobs once more it was coming back to haunt him.

There were times he couldn't get a goodnight sleep. How was he able to live his life knowing the things he did, all for the sake of lien. Here he was judging Blake when he was no better than her. No, he was worse his expression was lost in thought. His eyes gazing at the camp fire. The raven haired faunus was now worried because he hasn't said a word for a few minutes. It's like he wasn't there.

"Yuri?"

"Sorry" he chuckled shrugging it off.

"You okay?"

"Yeah, nothing to worry about."

"Was it my story that has you so...Lost in yourself?"

"Not in the least. Your story is exactly as I thought, you're really a good person. You've spent your entire life in the White Fang it must have been so hard for you to leave…."

"It was so hard at first. But not anymore I knew I was in the wrong being with them. I had to come to terms with it that everything they're doing is wrong."

"I'm sorry for how I treated you. I had no right to treat you like a criminal."

"I am a criminal as much as I hate to admit it. Now I'm a fugitive of the White Fang."

"I'm worse than you Blake" he smiled" if you don't know yet I'm a mercenary. People pay me for any kind of jobs, I will do it as long as they have the money."

"I should have known when I first saw you. I knew you weren't with those security soldiers. I'm guessing the President of the Schnee Dust Company paid you to stop me and Adam from robbing the cargo train."

"True, though I failed the job miserably. But in the end I won, the President was kind enough to give me an early payment" he grinned showing the cat faunus his bag.

"What do you mean you're worse than me?" she stood curious.

"Exactly as I said. I've done worse things than you all for money while you did it for your beliefs. I have taken lives and I never bothered to check the identities of my victims, I have stolen a lot. Basically between you and me, I'm the worse criminal. That's why I have no right to judge you for your actions. Not when I'm the real scum when you look at it I'm the one who should be send to the authorities, not you."

"Mercenaries live a harsh life too" Blake turned to the swordsman" Yuri, I'm not going to judge you for your past actions because I'm the same. We've done things we're not proud of."

"We're on the same boat" he chuckled" guess we belong with the scum of this world."

"Maybe, maybe not" said the raven haired girl" but if we can find a brand new start and try to do the right thing we don't have to be seen as scum…."

"The present deeds overcome the deeds of the past...I read about it in a book, don't remember the title. I'm done with the killing and stealing I should add it when I come up with my calling card. Yuri Lowell mercenary don't do assassination and theft, sounds nice eh?"

"You're going to continue as a mercenary then?"

"Pretty much, it's the only life I have ever known" he sighed" it's the only one I remember since I don't remember a thing about my past."

"You have amnesia?" Blake gasped" I didn't know."

"Don't pay too much to it my lost memories don't matter. All I want is to continue living my life and maybe I can find a better job than a mercenary."

"….."

"Anyway…." Yuri has taken his sword unsheathing it he carefully cut the ropes on the faunus's hands followed by the ones on her feet.

"What are you doing?" she was shocked that he will let her go.

"You won. You convinced me to let you go, you're free to go. Just make sure you stay out of trouble. Can't forget about this" he handed back her ribbon" there's a reason why you're using it to cover your ears."

"You know perfectly how faunus are treated. I don't want people hating me for what I am. It's better if they can accept me for who I am instead."

"That doesn't mean they might accept you for who you are either. Some might hate you with or without that bow, that's how people are."

"You're probably right. But I'd prefer if things remain the this way."

"It's getting late" Yuri got up" I'm going to get some rest. I still have to get to the city."

"Do you mind if I join you?"

"You can do whatever you like. I thought you'd be more than happy to leave my side."

"I have nowhere else to go. Maybe while traveling with you, I might find what I'm looking for."

The mercenary didn't said another word. He didn't minded having Blake here if she wanted to join him getting to Vale that was her choice. The only thing he felt bad with is he didn't had a blanket to give the faunus. He wasn't counting on sleeping in the open sure, he didn't care about himself, he got used with sleeping in unusual places. Kind of became a bad habit of he's.

But the amber eyed girl shrugged it off as if she didn't minded sleeping without a blanket, or a bed for the matter. The swordsman decided to keep the camp fire on so it can keep them warm during the evening, then he handed the faunus her bow back. Before Closing his eyes, she was still there. Just when she could go anywhere, Blake chose to stay. It was very ironic but that's all he thought as he drifted to sleep. The cat faunus was staring at him shortly before she fell to asleep after eating a nice meal, she got tired.

(Time skip: the next day)

Yuri woke up and the first thing he did was find some water to put out the camp fire. The still hasn't come up yet, so it was that early. He didn't saw Blake, so he guessed she must woke up earlier and left. At least he appreciate the thought that she slept with him. The same person that was about to send her to the police. But he knew he did right in letting her go. She really wasn't a bad person but someone, who wanted to make a difference for her kind.

It was strange he was able to get to know her for a few hours and he already missed her. Maybe because she was the only person he has had a long conversation before. He never talked for too long with people, part of his job since his focus was more on the traveling during his jobs. The long haired swordsman managed to find some water in a small lake, with a bucket he had he will always bring along in his bag, he carried the water and put out the fire.

"Ready to go?"

Yuri blinked turning to the source of the voice. There she stood, Blake was looking at him with a small smile in her face.

"Talk about being surprised. I really thought you were long gone by now" he chuckled.

"I told you I have nowhere else to go. Might as well travel with you until we reach Vale."

"Sounds fair to me. I don't mind some company."

So they started traveling the beautiful vegetarian landscape together. The long haired swordsman was sure the cargo train made it to the Vale border. Meaning they weren't that far from the capital city of the kingdom. Now that he thought about it, this will be the first time he will be traveling with someone. Yuri was always on his own whenever he did his travels. In truth he didn't like traveling alone but now, having someone with him, someone to talk to, it wasn't so bad.

Having someone to keep him busy with talking was exactly what he needed, a traveling companion. He was was a sociable person and the more there were people he felt comfortable with, the better. The mercenary found someone he could get along with fine and have a regular conversation with. The irony this person was a former member of the White Fang. Guess you can find friends in the least expected people. While they find the city, he can enjoy the company of a pretty cat faunus.

"I'm curious about something" spoke the long haired swordsman turning to the raven haired girl" you said you were born into the White Fang…."

"It runs in the family" she repeated herself from last night but she didn't felt uncomfortable talking about it with the mercenary" it's exactly as I said. My father is human and he was the one who founded the White Fang my mother is a faunus and she joined him in the group along with me."

"That doesn't make you a full faunus if your dad is human. You only a faunus on your mother's side."

"Yuri, there is no such thing as a half breed" she rolled her eyes amused by his comment.

"Are you sure? You could be the first ever half faunus, half human."

"There are plenty of faunus who were born from human parents. It doesn't matter if the father or the mother are the faunus, they're born as full blood faunus. Why do you have to make things so complicated?"

"I was just asking not making things complicated. It ain't wrong getting curious about something."

"You're being too curious for your own good."

"I can't believe you're the one who said that. And you're supposed to be the cat" he was smirking.

She turned to him with a frown of course she knew what he was talking about. The stupid saying of" curiosity killed the cat" how immature. Every time she hears that it annoys her, she actually saw it as an insult to all cat faunus.

"Didn't mean to bring that up, sorry. You got any hobbies?"

"I like reading and silence" she felt grateful he changed the topic.

"The bookworm type" he nodded in approval" oh boy, then you won't like traveling with me. I'm the least quiet person you'll ever meet."

"It depends on the situation. If I'm not reading I don't mind the silence but I would like if there's someone I can talk with to pass the time."

"You approve a big mouth like me? Thanks a lot."

"I don't mind your company" just like that Blake couldn't believed she said that, her cheeks got red.

"You have officially become my favorite person to travel with" he smiled.

"What about you?" the cat faunus erased her blushing" do you have any hobbies?"

"Is the sky blue?" his question made her rolled her eyes" I have plenty. I like gambling, buying lottery tickets, drinking among other things. If I feel like doing something I never try before, I'll do it."

"Like what?" she was really curious.

"I don't know maybe, like reading" he smirked again.

"I should have known" the faunus rolled her eyes again.

It was strange it should bothered Blake hearing about Yuri's hobbies. Maybe because she was able to understand them. He was a young man to her, he seemed like he was twenty or twenty one. The age was acceptable for him to be gambling and drinking liquor. Now it would be a different story if he was a teenager like being at her age. But anyway she didn't had a problem with his hobbies it was acceptable.

She did saw it funny hearing the last part. If by some miracle he feels like doing something he rarely doesn't do, he will do it. And then he brings reading to make her laugh and he succeeded. She didn't laughed out loud but she was amused. Honestly she doesn't laugh like a maniac at all, she will chuckle if the comment or the joke would be considered funny.

Yuri was about to say something when a sudden movement from the bushes silenced him. He got serious turning to the raven haired faunus who nodded at him. They weren't alone, a sudden roar caught their attention. The region where they stood was probably common for dangerous creatures like the Grimm. Both have unsheathed their weapons, that roar didn't sounded friendly in the least. Something came after them but it was too fast to tell what it was, it was rolling.

The long haired swordsman reacted pushing Blake away to safety from whatever just passed them. It stopped rolling revealing itself to the two. The swordsman and the faunus were shocked it was a Grimm all right, a Boarbatusk. But this one was way bigger than the average type. Yuri has had his fair share of fighting Grimm during his travels. The same with Blake she has fought the creatures while doing missions for the White Fang.

"We have a big piggy in our hands. What did you eat to grow so big?" the swordsman grinned at the creature.

"It must be a King type Boarbatusk. They're bigger and stronger than the regular species" said the raven haired faunus.

"I'm ready whenever you are" said the mercenary.

"Ready" the cat faunus stood next to him.

(Music: "Tenacity" from the Tales of Vesperia original soundtrack)

The King Boarbatusk used it's rolling attack again as both dodged in time. Blake switched Gambol Shroud to gun mode firing at the creature but it didn't do much damage while it's doing the attack. The only way to harm it when it wasn't doing the rolling attack. Yuri signaled the amber eyed faunus to let him attack it first while she covers him. If he can keep it busy the Grimm won't be able to perform the rolling attack.

The cat faunus nodded as she fired her weapon in gun mode to get it's attention. She hoped it will lowered it's guard for the long haired swordsman to make his move. It was a success the over size Boarbatusk gave it's attention at her and the mercenary grinned slashing at it with a lot of combos. It was getting hurt a lot and suddenly Blake attacked it with a quick attack using her semblance doing her own fast combos. Both were being a strong team while the Boarbatusk tried to gain the upper hand on the duo.

It was strong enough to pushed them away and went for it's rolling attack. They kept their distance ready to dodge when it was necessary. Yuri had a feeling after the beating it received the large Grimm wasn't going to fall for it again. It will probably kept doing it's rolling attack until they both get squashed or killed. So the best strategy was to hit it so hard it gets stunned while using the attack.

He already knew what to do as he whispered something to his faunus partner. She nodded and kept her distance just in time to see the over size Boarbatusk heading straight the mercenary. It looked like what he was doing was stupid and crazy but Yuri wasn't worried. He was waiting for the creature to be close enough to him. Blake was a bit worried seeing it was getting too closed for comfort. Even if the swordsman assured her he was going to be fine.

"Now!" the long haired swordsman went to use one of his strong artes.

"Guardian Field!"

The white field was summoned when he stabbed his sword on the ground. The King Boarbatusk hit but it got hurt and it was sent to the ground. When Yuri was done this was their chance to finish it, Blake emerged using her semblance to get ahead. Both took the opportunity that the creature was stunned too hurt from getting hit by the arte. Once more they were attacking it with a succession of strong combo attacks. Yuri went hard using Azure Wolf Strike and that seemed to be the final hit. The cat faunus followed using her sword and sheath on the head of the Grimm. With assist of the long haired swordsman the over size Boarbatusk was decapitated before it started vanishing in black smoke.

(Music end)

"That Grimm was tough."

"It should be expected from a King class" followed the raven haired girl.

"Oh yeah, I knew I forgot to ask you something" smiled the mercenary" your weapon is great. That's saying a lot I'm not into those weapons that transform into a gun."

"Thanks. I see nothing wrong with liking a regular sword" Blake sheathed her weapon.

"Yep, as long as it does the job of cutting and killing it's okay with me. I forgot to add, you have a nice semblance."

"You realized it?" the faunus had a feeling he was going to figure it out.

"Yeah, they're clones right?"

"It's very useful when I have to dodge."

"I wouldn't mind having a semblance like that" Yuri smiled" that is if I have aura to begin with. Her clones also give her an edge in a fight, able to move fast."

An hour later Yuri and Blake were able to see the city of Vale. The tall buildings, the crowd passing by the cars passing through. The amber eyed faunus was so relief she wasn't going to the police meaning, no jail for her. She was grateful that she earned the mercenary's trust. Now she was left with a dilemma, what to do now that she was free from the White Fang. She wanted to start a new life where her past doesn't catch her.

But at the same time she wanted to find a way to help people, both humans and faunus. She can fight and she wanted to lend her skills to a better cause than the one the faunus group has. The thought of becoming a mercenary like Yuri did crossed her mind but after what he told her, it wasn't the right choice. So she was back to square one not knowing what to do. They walked the streets with the long haired swordsman looking very happy at his surroundings.

"Guess this is where we part ways" he turned to her.

Truthfully Yuri didn't wanted to leave Blake's side. She's a nice traveling companion but it was better this way. She has her own path to take he trusted her that she will find a better life than the one with the White Fang. This might be the last time they will see each other but the mercenary secretly hope their paths will cross again. Sadly his luck wasn't that good remembering how many times he lost when it came to gambling and scratching lottery tickets. Will his luck be the same when it comes to meeting again a friend, only time will tell.

"Thanks Yuri" Blake smiled" because of you I know I will make the right decision."

"Just make sure not to do anything illegal. Wouldn't want to regret not handing you to the authorities."

"Same to you" she smirked at him.

"I can behave...When I want to. I've never gotten myself in trouble with the police."

"I'm not telling her that time when I got in trouble at that casino."

"Where will you go now?"

"Don't know. Vale is a big city, I might take a break from jobs. Guess it's off to a casino or a bar. Who knows, I might even do some sight seeing."

"Listen Blake" the swordsman sighed softly" take care. I know you will find what you're looking for but...I can't let you go before I give you a surprise."

"A surprise?" she stood confused what will he give her.

"You're going to need this since you're no longer a full time White Fang" Yuri took something from his bag.

"That's…." the faunus paused seeing something he was holding.

"Take it. I have plenty of it thanks to the President of the SDC. He must have find out by now about his precious cargo and he's not happy. Good thing I didn't made my stay in Atlas permanent."

"I...There's so much lien. How much are you giving me?" she stood shocked.

"There's a hundred thousand. You need a new place and maybe buy some clothes or books, anything you like. You can't live your new life without some money."

"That's true...Thanks a lot. I hope we can meet again someday."

"I don't believe in goodbyes. I believe in meeting each other again no matter how long it takes so...Good luck Blake."

"Good luck to you too. I hope you can find a better job than the one of a mercenary."

"Hope you're right. Don't mind finding something easy that will allow me to help people."

"Then...Until we meet again."

She raised her hand and the swordsman did the same, in a hand shake. They broke it and each went their separate ways. Yuri took the right side of the city and Blake took the left. Neither gazed at the other because somehow they knew, they will meet again.

Blake walked the streets of the city with a downcast gaze. It was so strange she was actually going to miss someone she just met. But she felt like she owns Yuri a lot. The faunus didn't know what to do, where to go, what life to lead. She was sure Adam will be searching for her and who knows if he will send all of his operatives to do so. Not just she needed to get away but she will have to hide when the time comes.

It was time to put the past behind her and focus on the present. But what purpose to have now. She wanted to use her skills and talent to help both human and faunus. Maybe becoming a mask vigilante, she shook her head while smiling. That will be too silly, there was no need to hide her face. The raven haired girl kept walking until she saw above a holographic screen showing a news broadcast.

*This is Lisa Lavender for the Vale News Network with a special report. As a reminder the new semester will be starting soon in Beacon Battle Academy. Those who have chosen to become the future protectors of the world can enroll here. Please remember to send your combat transcripts as well as your combat test results as soon as possible. You might be one of the few lucky who will be chosen to attend this prestigious school. I personally wish you all huntsmen and huntresses good luck.

"A huntress…." Blake has given a smile this was it.

Huntsmen and huntresses they protect human and faunus from all kinds of threats. This was perfect, it was exactly what she needed to do. Her skills for good helping those in need. She didn't had to worried about her heritage since her bow was covering her faunus ear. If she can somehow attend Beacon, she might have a shot as a future huntress.

But what to do, she didn't had any combat test results nor transcripts. The White Fang never needed something like that, as long as you can fight though. Then she realized the lien Yuri gave her. The mercenary has given her a hundred thousand. A smile spread her lips, the swordsman has helped her again. Maybe she won't have to worried about those things after all.

To be continued

-Another chapter done and I'm happy with the progress I'm making in the story.

-I enjoyed writing this chapter since I love writing ones that have Yuri involved. How his life got turned around with meeting Blake and how he was able to influenced her in choosing to become a huntress without him even knowing.

-As you know I used the events of the Black Trailer to make the encounter of Yuri and Blake. And sorry to those that were expecting a Yuri vs Adam fight. I'm still deciding how will that go in the future. Can't tell yet if it will happen. We will have to wait and see.

-Honestly how did Blake got into Beacon? I doubt the White Fang have battle transcripts to give her at least, not official ones. It leaves me to believe she did the same thing as Jaune. She probably got fake transcripts which it's exactly what I did in this story because she does have enough money to get them lol.

-I made Yuri meet Weiss at the start of the chapter. Not enough interaction between them though, just a random meeting. I will use it for future reference.

-It's a real shame I didn't show Jacquess's reaction when he found out he has lost his entire dust cargo lol. You fine readers know exactly the kind of person he is so we all know he was very pissed especially when he realized hiring Yuri was a big mistake lol lol.

-Coming up we'll return to Hubert and see what he's been doing in Atlas. What kind of role will he play in Weiss's resolve as well as the events of the White trailer. I might also add from another source.

-As always thank you very much for the favs, follows and reviews I really appreciate it.

Next time: The life that was meant to be hers