.
The Profane Maiden
.
The best people possess a feeling for Beauty.
The Courage to take Risks.
The Discipline to tell the Truth.
…And the Capacity for Sacrifice.
Ironically, their Virtues make them Vulnerable.
They are often Wounded.
…
And sometimes,
Destroyed.
.
.
In the midst of a forest experiencing peak winter, Raven stood on an unnatural patch of lush grass. With her was a young boy, whose height barely reached her waist.
"She's gone, Argent. Bean and I can confirm it," Raven spoke into her scroll.
"…Are you sure?"
"Bean can't sense her and I can't find a trace of her in the Never Realm. If that wasn't enough, this alone should convince you."
Raven turned on the camera on her scroll and transmitted a live feed of what was before them.
Centered in the patch of luscious green land, was a headstone carved of finely polished boulder. The workmanship was uncanny, and the environment just so. The ones who erected the monument made certain it would withstand the tests of time.
On the headstone, it read:
One who Championed the Future.
Who stood tall among Remnant's finest Huntresses.
Headmaster of Haven Academy.
Loved by Family, Friends, and Students.
Here rests, Victoria Stein.
…
Argent recognized the craftsmanship immediately.
"Masa…" he let out a soft mutter. "If she was the one who made this, it cannot be a lie."
"I'm sorry, Argent," Raven expressed her condolences.
"…...Both of you should return to the Armada. You've been away long enough. If you were attacked now, there would be no assistance."
"I am truly sorry."
"Are you?"
Raven paused. She was about to flare with anger, when she remembered all the things that happened between them. Also, the man was clearly grieving. This was a time for understanding, not defending some petty sleight.
"I am, Argent. You can choose to believe me or not."
"…"
"I've lost loved ones, too. I know the pain. If you ever want to talk… the offer stands."
"I see."
"…"
"I must inform Henry," Argent sighed. "He will not believe it coming from anyone else."
"Tell my father—!" Bean tried to hop within screen view. Raven leaned lower to him. "Tell my father, I apologize for failing him."
The Prime Minister shook his head.
"You did not fail him. It is us who failed her. You must take great care, Bean. Your father would not be able to stand losing you as well."
"A-affirmative."
"Stay close to Blake and Raven."
"…Instructions will be followed."
Bean was about to say something more, but shut his mouth.
Raven immediately caught the motion and knew. It was these precious moments, these small and humble words that held the most importance. But if never spoken, would be lost forever. Time can never be reversed, and things left unsaid weighed on people more than they themselves realize. An experience Raven was too familiar with.
She gave Bean a gentle prod on the back. The boy looked up at her, which all but told him to speak his mind.
"I… I never knew the subject called, Victoria Stein. She… was my mother?"
Argent expressed a bit of confusion.
"I suppose, in a sense."
"I would request her information disclosed to me."
"Bean? I believe you already have access to her archives."
"I meant—I request the Prime Minister personally disclose the information to me," he spoke quickly, but awkwardly. "Father does not speak much of her. Curiosity, peaked. Personal interaction…no longer viable. Would like to know—what she was like."
Finally understanding Bean's intent, the elder man smiled. His eyes glossed, unable to bury the emotions that swelled.
"Yes. I would be happy to speak about Victoria with you."
"Thank you, sir."
"No. Thank you, dear boy. We shall be in touch soon."
The call ended.
Raven and Bean stared at the grave for a while.
"My gratitude, Commander," the boy said.
"…Remember this, kid. Never leave anything unsaid. Ever." Raven sliced open a portal and plucked a white rose from it. "Never give in to the chance the words you leave someone aren't your last. Cut a few breaths short—and you can carry regrets that will eat at you for the rest of your life."
"You reference previous experience?"
"Yes."
"A mother?"
"No. Someone I loved more than anything and anyone in the world."
"…They must have been exceptional to garner your affection."
"Yes." Raven spoke a silent prayer before laying the rose at the grave.
"She was my moon on lonely nights.
And the bell that chimed my happiness.
Now, my nights are dark.
And I can't hear a thing."
.
X
.
"…"
"…"
"That. Is not disturbing in the slightest," Cinder groaned, waking up to the blank empty stare of Penny from across the room. "I believe sleeping arrangements had myself and my subordinates in one room, with the rest of you in another."
[I was ordered by Emerald to announce when you were awake.]
"An order lacking thorough thought, it seems." Cinder saw the mattresses beside her empty. "Where are they?"
[Training, as per usual scheduled routine.]
"Training. I remember when those two shuddered at the word."
The woman threw off her covers, dressed, and went into the living room.
There, she found Team ENMY sitting with their backs against each other, eyes closed. From what Cinder could tell, they were probably in the middle of running a hallucinated simulation. A practice she originally designed.
[Cinder has awakened!]
Penny yelled through her loudspeaker.
"BAH! Freakin' hell!" Emerald gasped, along with her other teammates.
"Em, don't just bring us out like that!" Yang shook her head to dispel the confusion.
"Yeah. It's my fault freckles over there almost gave me heart failure." Realizing that her boss was awake, Emerald swiftly regained herself. *Ahem* "Evening, Cinder. Me and Merc didn't want to wake you, so we thought we'd let you sleep in a bit longer."
"I see. Never do so again."
"I-I'm sorry."
"Going forward, I shall oversee your training sessions. It would do well to grasp how much you two have grown—and what more you have to improve on."
"—About that," Mercury cut in. "Do we really need more training? I mean, bringing up the obvious here, but we've got two, I count it, TWO full-powered Maidens in our group now."
"I'd hate for both of you to return to your old slothing habits. So, yes," Cinder grinned. "Training will resume as it has, but under my supervision. Have our credentials been prepared?"
At that moment, the door to the loft burst open.
"—Just *huff* got 'em!" Junior arrived out of breath, and began handing out passports. "Only the best, for the best."
They each took their forged identities with an obvious scrutiny.
"—'Masamune'? You've spelled this one's name incorrectly."
"—'Hermes'. Sounds like an STD."
"—What in the hell is an 'Aladdin'? Is that a guy's name?"
"—'Rapunzel'? Really?"
"—'Cinderella'. Hm."
"GUYS. That's the point of fake IDs. They're fake," Junior gave an exasperated sigh. "They're not actually supposed to BE you."
"I can't believe we're paying you for this," Emerald clicked her tongue and threw a stack of lien to Junior, which he almost dropped.
"No. Of course, no 'thanks, Junior' or 'you're the best, dude!' Forget I saved your lives that one time."
"You had keys in your hand, and you tossed them to us. I wouldn't exactly call that saving us from a giant lava assassin, but sure. AND we paid that debt back, with interest. So, no more milking that tree."
They all gathered around the dining table to have some breakfast/dinner. While Neo, Yang, and Masa were on cooking duty, Emerald read through news articles on her scroll.
"Can you believe this? 'Team ENMY Terrorize City Streets.'" She showed them the title of the news article and the picture below of Team ENMY laying waste to a street full of gangsters. "Conveniently forgot to mention those assholes attacked us first."
"Heh, chumps. But seriously, what exactly happened to these two?" Junior asked, while nodding to Cinder and Yang.
"What are you talking about?"
"I mean, how did blondie get so roided out? And I remember this one being freaky before. But these two alone just double-team wiped the concrete with all my business rivals. Like, what's the deal. New workout routine? Performance supplements? New workout routine AND supplements?"
"None of your business, beardo. Back to what's really important, our notoriety just kicked up a few notches. Will these IDs really hold up?"
"Of course! You can see for yourself. Perfect replicas of Vale Army badges to get you train access, then Atlas personnel credentials to get you the rest of the way. I pulled a lot of favors to get you these. All you need now are pictures. My advice, don't look like yourselves."
Neo instantly morphed into her dark-haired, green-eyed persona.
"Were it so easy for the rest of us," Cinder commented.
"—Mine says I was injured in combat?" Mercury furrowed his brow. "Says I lost my legs from an airship falling on me."
"Better than me!" Yang exclaimed. "Says here, I got my arm decapitated by one Ruby Rose."
"LOOK," Junior huffed. "I thought it would sell better if your backgrounds read soldiers returning to Atlas as injured combatants."
"That's actually pretty smart," Emerald approved.
"You don't think it's insensitive?"
"Oh, it's insensitive. But it tickled me, so whatevs. Looks like Mercury has to put on the old, Yang shot my legs routine again."
"How's this?" Mercury cleared his throat. "THEY GOT MY LEGS! OH GOD! THOSE BASTARDS GOT MY LEGS! THE AGONY~~~!"
"Okay, maybe we add shattered jaw to your list of injuries."
"—I still can't believe everyone bought that," Yang commented in disbelief.
"Like suckers for suckers. How about you? Think you can act like when you first lost your arm?"
"You mean, when I was angry all the time and hated all of you, and didn't talk?"
"Yup."
"You just want me to look angry all the time and not talk, don't you?"
"Yup."
"…Yeah, I can do that," Yang rolled her eyes.
"Great. Now we got the act, we need some cosmetic changes. Maybe, do something about the hair, super saiyan?"
"—Dye it black," Cinder immediately recommended. "I think it would look rather fitting," she grinned flirtatiously.
Emerald, Yang, and Neo simultaneously squirmed at her words.
"I. Was joking."
"Ha-ha," Emerald tried to laugh forcefully. "Um, also, I think you might need to change your appearance, too."
"Do I?"
"A lot of authorities know about you, Cinder, especially Atlas officials. And you're also really…"
"Yes?"
"…Eye-catching," Emerald blushed.
"Hm. I suppose you're right."
"—Someone, gag me now," Yang ecked from the side of her mouth. "Oh, but I could ugly you up a bit! Then, no one would recognize you!"
"A haircut, then. Something short, practical." Cinder turned to Neo, who was setting the last dinner plate. "If you would do the honors?"
"(Yeah!)"
The petite girl nodded cheerfully.
Waiting until they were out of earshot, Yang whispered to Neo with a chuckle.
"Hey, do you think you could mess it up?"
Her partner violently flicked her nose.
"GAH! Really? I thought you'd be all for doing that."
Neo puffed her cheeks and jabbed Yang's chest with her finger.
"Okay, okay, I got it! You take your hobbies seriously."
She continued to poke her.
"'Friend', huh? Cinder is?"
Neo nodded with crossed arms.
"…Why?"
The petite girl threw her a hard look.
"(Just because you hate her doesn't mean I have to, too.)"
"(Don't be stupid.)"
Neo turned, and walked away.
Back at the table, Emerald continued reading off various news articles.
"Mistral's pushing hard from the east. 'Vale forces are faltering.'"
"All according to plan, it seems," Cinder commented.
"They're losing the war on purpose?"
"Calculated retreat. Vale's army is drawing them as close to Atlas forces as possible, while making it difficult to gain ground. They plan to force the war into a long-term contest of attrition. It's the only viable option they have."
"Hm?" Emerald continued to read. "'Atlas campaign halted'?"
Cinder paused, and abruptly placed her utensils down on her plate with a piercing clink.
"…Elaborate."
"A large portion of the Atlesian Fleet has been recalled back to the Kingdom," Emerald paraphrased. "They gained a foothold in Vale recently, but it looks like they're only leaving a few of their forces behind, while the campaign's been postponed completely."
"Has a reason been given?"
"Nothing said here."
Cinder held her chin in thought.
"I don't like it. We're moving up our departure time."
"We make for Atlas as soon as possible."
.
X
.
"So, they finally got their asses over here," Coco muttered, while watching an incoming ship from the harbor.
"It'll be so great to see them again!" Velvet piped excitedly.
As soon as the ship docked, a chameleon Faunus stepped off its outstretched plank.
"Always have people begging to be smuggled out of Atlas—but smuggling people in?" Ilia shook her head. "Well, I got your order. Including two Shade Academy students, safe and sound."
Filing off the boat behind her were two male figures. One with short shaved hair and an enormous sword mounted on his back. The other with dark orange hair and whited irises.
"Did you boys miss us?" Coco smirked.
Velvet ran up to Fox and Yatsuhashi, immediately throwing her arms around their necks. They supported her weight as they hugged her back.
"It's great to see you again, Coco," Yatsuhashi replied.
"Yeah, yeah. Don't get sappy on me. We got a lot of work to do. Team CFVY's reunion party can wait. There's a big meeting starting soon."
Meanwhile, their smuggler-in-waiting scanned the docks, looking for someone, before speaking to Coco.
"So, where's Weiss?" Ilia asked.
"…She's got her hands full with something else."
"Uh huh... I was wondering if the rumors were true."
Coco tilted her sunglasses down.
"What rumors?"
"They say the heiress is dead."
"She isn't. It's business as usual." Coco tilted her sunglasses back up. "Vee?"
Velvet let go of her comrades and handed Ilia the latest data on Atlas' border security and patrol routes. The smuggler took it and scanned the contents on her scroll.
"Alright. Well, along with your friends, this week's Dust shipment is underneath the floorboard of the lower deck. Just crack that baby open, when you wanna move it out."
"Our people can take it from here," Coco nodded.
"…Send Weiss my best." Ilia then added, "Tell her she should show herself at the next shipment."
"Does she need to be there?"
"No, but yeah. She does."
"What's that supposed to mean?"
Ilia's tone lowered and she rested a hand on her hip.
"It means, me and Temujin made a deal with her, not you. No offense. If she's not around, our business is done. That's just the way it is."
"I don't get it. She's here, she isn't here. What does it matter if you still get what you want?"
"Heh," Ilia chuckled. "See, that's why you don't. You're a mercenary. You'll work for anyone who pays the right price. People like us? My people? We only work with those we trust. And as weird as it sounds, we trust Weiss to do what's fair."
"You're right. That is weird."
"Look, I'm sure you're a really cool gal with your shades and sexy brand-name clothes, but if I don't see Weiss next week—you don't see me. We crystal on that?"
"…Yeah. Fine."
"Now, if that's all, I got another job to do."
The girl walked past them and vanished into the streets.
Once Ilia was gone, Velvet walked to her partner's side.
"This is very bad, Coco."
"I know. One thing at a time, Vel. One thing at a time." She turned to Fox and Yatsuhashi. "Alright, you two." Coco led them to a waiting car and tossed them a pair of trench coat jackets and sunglasses from the trunk. "I know you guys just got in, but you're gonna have to hit the ground running."
As Team CFVY was driven to a Silbern Mafia meeting, Velvet filled their comrades in on the situation.
"This information is classified and should only stay between us. At the moment, Weiss is currently asleep and we can't wake her."
"Do you know who's responsible?" Yatsuhashi asked.
"—Someone who we thought was an ally, Hades," Coco snarled. "Apparently, he fed her magical fruit or some bullshit. Did the same to the Winter Maiden, too. Now, they're both out of commission."
"With Weiss gone, Coco and I have been running the organization in her stead," Velvet continued. "Unfortunately, the work is becoming too much for both of us alone. We need help, which is why we're so glad you two decided to come."
Yatsuhashi and Fox nodded, as if it were a given.
"We've tried to cover for Weiss' absence, but as you've seen at the docks, rumors are starting to spread of her disappearance. To be honest, there are a few individuals who are trying to take over Silbern. That, and we are entering strenuous relationships with the other organized groups in Atlas, including the White Fang."
"This sounds worse than you described," Yatsuhashi said.
"—Much worse." Coco snickered. "Feel like trailing it back to Vacuo yet?"
"I wouldn't dream of it."
"Knew I kept you guys around for some reason," she jabbed him with her elbow.
The team reached the meeting place and entered the abandoned theater. Members of the Silbern Mafia had already filled the seating. Compared to when Weiss was in charge, the cascading waves of discussions did not cease upon their arrival. Something that irked Coco at the back of her mind.
As they strode down the aisles, murmurs and whispers rose. Some commented on how Weiss failed to show again. Others questioned who the two new members were. Everywhere they turned, it seemed doubt swelled in their numbers.
As the acting boss, Coco couldn't help but feel agitated by the difference in treatment between herself and Weiss. In all seriousness, she thought she made the better leader. At first, she thought it was because the members were averse to change, but in time, she realized it was something else. She touched on it earlier in her conversation with Ilia, too.
And she certainly felt it now.
Weiss had a personality—a charisma. She inspired people and drew their trust. She was tough, but fair. People had faith in her judgment, because in a way, she made herself completely transparent. There was no questioning her intentions. Within every action, they could see Weiss truly aspire an equality in their Kingdom. For not just people to rise, but to rise together.
It was something Coco could not replicate.
She took her seat center stage with the rest of her team standing at her side.
Not a second after she did, one member stood, and puffed out her chest.
"I propose a vote for new leadership!"
Team CFVY froze, while the rest of the auditorium nodded and voiced their agreement.
Is it over already?
Yatsu and Fox just got here.
I thought we could get them to settle down if we produced results, but we might not even get that chance.
Crap!
CRAP!
"—Once Weiss returns, you may place forth a request to vote for new leadership," Velvet's voice echoed with the acoustics. "Until that time passes, we will operate as business per usual."
"Except we can't!" one of the members yelled. "One of the aristocrats must've gotten her. We need to pay them back!" another shouted.
"Everyone, please, calm down."
"We should just join the White Fang. Maybe, she was just another Schnee, after all," a Faunus protested.
"Please, you all know the good she's done."
"She's right! If Weiss Schnee isn't leading this outfit anymore, I'm outta here!"
"Weiss will return shortly. We promise. She is currently attending another emergency."
"Liar! Our birds at the Schnee household told us she hasn't been there for a while now."
"…!"
Velvet was going to make another excuse when Coco held her hand.
"You tried. You really tried, but it's enough."
"Coco?"
The girl sighed and depressingly thought, 'what would Weiss do in this situation?'
…
Yeah, okay, let's give it a shot.
"Alright, everybody. Listen up," Coco stood.
The audience was still in an uproar of debate.
"EVERYONE, SHUT THE FUCK UP RIGHT NOW! OR I'LL OPEN UP SOME NEW EARS FOR YOU!"
""…""
"Thank you. *Ahem*. It's true, the princess is out of commission—for now. That's the bottom line. She's sleeping away while we're all freezing our asses trying to revolutionize a Kingdom. Typical, right?"
A few dry chuckles came from the crowd.
"While Weiss is getting her beauty rest, we need to pick up the slack," Coco appealed to them. "A lot of you have followed us this far, since the beginning. When she came out with her real identity, not one of you left. That means something. I know it does, and you know it too, cause let's be honest folks—none of us expected this outfit to last more than a week. But here we are."
Coco took a deep breath.
"All we're saying, is hold out a bit longer. The princess isn't dead. We'll find a cure, and when we do, she'll be back on her feet. Come on, who else is gonna fight for you like she has? Is there anyone else you're willing to trust? The White Fang? The other crime syndicates? The aristocrats? Let's not kid ourselves."
Much of the audience nodded with some mumbles of acceptance.
"Look at all of you—Faunus, Human, rich, poor, middle-class, military, civilian. Weiss was able to bring all of you together for a reason. She doesn't just fight for one of you, she fights for all of you. And I think, that's worth waiting around for. At least, a little longer."
The theater was silent for a long stretch of time.
…
Then, one voice spoke up.
"What's wrong with her?"
Coco was surprised, since it was the first question about Weiss' actual well-being. She coughed and shrugged.
"She literally ate a bad apple, got sick, and fell asleep. Like, not even joking."
The audience erupted into laughter and the atmosphere in the building lightened.
A few words of, "Food poisoning? She's in bed with food poisoning?" or "I guess the boss is still mortal after all" made their way through the crowd.
"Um, if the temporary leadership needs help, the Mantle Loyalists will provide support!" a young girl piped up. "Also…"
"What?"
"If we're talking about a sleeping princess and a cure to wake her up..."
"…You're going to suggest that? REALLY?" Coco showed a crooked smile.
"A true lover's kiss should do it!"
More laughter erupted from the crowds.
"I volunteer!"
"Me! I'm a great kisser!"
"I don't know. I think the boss is likely to the kick the crap out of anyone who disturbs her beauty rest! Hahaha!"
As more of the members joked, Coco fell back into her chair shaking.
Whattaya know.
Sometimes honesty is the best policy…
Just as she was starting to relax, Velvet came to whisper in her ear.
"On that note, I think it's time we tell Ruby about Weiss."
"…Yeah. Been putting that off for a while, but the kid's better off hearing it from us than anywhere else. Was not looking forward to that conversation."
The thought dampened Coco's mood, but at least the most immediate problem was delayed. She wondered if Weiss would ever understand how strangely she affected these people. How she nurtured their hope into action.
Now, all we need is for our princess to wake her ass up before Ilia's next shipment.
.
X
.
A jolt of energy passed through Yang's senses and woke her up.
Their group was currently traveling with Vale's army reserves.
The train had stopped to refuel and most of the passengers were fast asleep. Among them, were Neo and Masa, who nestled closer from each side of her.
Ever since gaining her newfound powers, Yang found no problems dealing with the seasonal weather. Her perpetual warmth was quickly taken advantage of by her teammates, who clung to her like a body-sized heater.
Along with her self-sustaining heat, she gained what she could only describe as a heightened sixth sense. Almost as if Yang could read into the space where the fabric of reality and the Never Realm overlapped. And it was this strange intuition that revealed a burst of power somewhere outside.
She looked across their compartment and saw Emerald and Mercury without their own Maiden body-heater. Yang remembered Cinder leaving earlier, but pretended not to notice.
After carefully untangling herself from her allies, the girl made for the fluctuating energy signature in the distance.
…
"Are you guys actually asleep?"
"No, but I was enjoying the peace and quiet, Mercury. Plus, it's too cold to sleep without Cinder or Yang around."
Emerald, Mercury, Neo, and Masa opened their eyes and sat up.
"Okay, so everyone's thinking the same thing I am, right?"
"Merc. No one. Ever. Thinks the same stuff you do," Emerald groaned.
"What's our new team name gonna be? Are Masa and Penny included? Cause I kinda feel like they shouldn't."
"—We are not, this one says firmly, not wanting to be associated with your team's infamous reputation."
"Cool."
"Are we actually doing this?" Emerald began massaging the bridge of her nose. "We have more important things to worry about than team names,"
"All I got is CYNEM."
"Not a high priority. And what the hell is CYNEM?"
"Cinnamon. Like cinnamon cruncha munch."
"You're only suggesting that cause it's one of your favorite cereals."
"So?"
"We're not naming our team after a freakin' cereal."
"Fine, but you explain to Cinder why her letter's not in the team name. Cause you know, that topic is coming."
"Burn that bridge when we cross it… And it's obviously CMYNE. Carmine, you dumbass."
"What the hell is a carmine?"
"It's a kind of red color. Which makes more sense than ENMY, actually."
"Ah, yeah. Now that I think about it, our name does kinda break the color rule. How come we went with that? I mean, you noticed when you first came up with it, right?"
"Sure, but I thought the team was going to be super temporary, so I didn't care," Emerald explained. "Now, we're just stuck with it."
"I like it, though."
"Yeah, me too. Sounds gamey."
"I don't really wanna change it to whatever the hell carmine is."
"Naming's hard."
"So, next question."
"God! There's more?"
"Who would win in a fight between Yang and Cinder? I mean, really."
"Isn't it obvious?"
"Everybody knows you love Cinder, Em. But let's be real. Who do you think would win?"
"…You know what? No. I'm not gonna guess who would win in a fight."
"Not even if we put lien on it?"
"…No! I'm not doing that!"
"I think Yang would win."
"Merc!"
"What? I'm not saying I'd let Yang kill Cinder if it ever happened. I'm just saying maybe, possibly, if they fought, 1v1, no handicaps, final destination—Yang might win."
"That's messed up. Why?"
"Just a feeling I got."
"—Mister Mercury's assumption is accurate."
On hearing that, the two turned to Masa with a crooked stare.
"Wait, why is Yang stronger?" Emerald asked.
"While it is true they are both Maidens, and under correct circumstances, neither would be more powerful than the other…"
"Yes?"
"There is a fundamental flaw in Cinder's Inheritance."
.
X
.
On the edge of a ridge, Cinder clutched her burning eye, screaming in anguish.
Fiery pillars of molten glass rose around her like a hellish nightmare-scape. The earth itself broke out in an endless bramble of dark polished crystal. The Maiden warped the surrounding environment itself by raw power alone.
And at the edge of her manifested territory, glass shattered from a mighty blow. Cinder knew who it was without looking. As more ash and fiery flakes shed from her body, the woman felt her Aura overflow, begging to be unleashed.
Her counterpart appeared from the tree line. Glowing feathers rose in the other Maiden's wake. Eyes piercing with crimson. Yang didn't seem at all surprised to see the other's uncontrollable havoc.
Cinder stopped covering her eye. She stopped trying to fight the pain. Instead, she embraced it.
Although Yang just arrived, she assessed the situation and knew what to do.
The Spring Maiden cocked her arm and triggered a shot, propelling her towards her opponent. In response, Cinder erected a wall of molten glass spears to block her. Flames plumed as the obstacle was demolished into mere shards.
The Fall Maiden propelled back. In her hands, she materialized a bow and arrow. She plucked at the sting, loosing a number of jagged-edged projectiles.
Yang parried every one of them with her gauntlets. Then, closed in and brought the fight to close quarters. A furious combo of kicks and punches were exchanged, miniature shockwaves detonated with each meeting.
Though the battle bordered cataclysmic, it was nowhere near the life or death conflict between Maidens. If anything, it was a simple spar. No more than an exercise, or flexing of muscle.
…
When Cinder finished expending her excess energy, she sat on the edge of the cliff.
"—You can't control it, can you?" Yang stood next to her. Not close enough as friends would, but not so distant either. "Do you know why it's happening?"
"It is none of your concern."
"Yeah. It is actually. I keep wondering when that's gonna happen to me."
"You have nothing to worry about, I'm sure."
"…How do you know?"
"There are… differences in our Inheritances," Cinder admitted. "Unlike you, I must devote special care in keeping my powers in check."
"Doesn't look like it's working."
"I merely thought it was convenient you were there. So, I decided to take the opportunity to let off a little steam."
"Hmph. Right."
Cinder grimaced. She disliked Yang, but even more so in this moment. This moment of weakness.
"If you're having trouble, tell Emerald and Mercury about it," Yang told her. "They shouldn't have to put up with you fronting like you're alright."
"It is not a concern."
"You think they don't notice, but they do. All the tossing and turning when you're having nightmares about being stuck in the Never Realm. They're just too nice to tell you about it."
"…And you are not so nice."
"No. I'm not."
"Hmph," Cinder chuckled. "Not very compassionate of you," she remarked with a snide.
The two stared out into the open space for a while. Nothing but still air in their surroundings. Any ambient noise was muffled by snowfall.
…
"Why are you doing this?" Yang asked.
"Doing what, pray tell? You'll have to be more specific."
"All of this, what you did before, what it all leads to. Why do you want to destroy Atlas so badly?"
"Emerald and Mercury haven't said?"
"No. I didn't want to put them in that position either. Figured it was better to ask you myself."
"I simply want what is rightfully mine."
"And what's that?"
"The keys to the Kingdom, along with my personal freedom."
Something about Cinder's words and tone struck a chord with Yang.
"Freedom?" she asked. Her curiosity piqued.
"Yes. Don't you feel the same?" Cinder asked back expectantly.
"You already have it. You can walk away, find some place to live with Merc and Em, and just—"
"There are those who will never stop hunting me, never stop seeking my death. In order to live my life, I must have power. It is my raison d'etre—my calling. Surely you understand that more than most. I can read it on your face. You seek your own brand of freedom. The two of us…"
"If you give me that, 'you and I aren't so different' spiel, I will literally knock your tongue down your throat."
"Hmph," Cinder scoffed. She picked a few frosted blades of grass in her hand. When she blew them into the wind, they flickered into burning ash. "Emerald tells me you're fond of fairytales. You and your sweet little sister."
"…"
"Have you heard of the Profane Princess?"
Yang winced with recognition.
"…I don't like that one very much."
"I'm sure you don't."
"What does that have to do with anything?"
"It's where my story begins. You want to know why my ambitions involve the crushing of Atlas? Then allow me to tell you a tale. One unfiltered and unsoftened for the ears of children."
"…I'm listening."
…
With that, Cinder began to narrate with an enticing, smoky voice.
Long ago existed a prosperous Kingdom.
As a nation, it was young. Only one of the few permanent settlements to exist outside of Mistral during the early expansion era.
The continent itself was wrapped in an everlasting Winter all year round, which made survival in the Kingdom rather treacherous.
Though the Grimm inhabiting the lands were powerful, the land also yielded great amounts of Dust, with which the people defended themselves by. The citizens of the Kingdom struggled, but for the most part, grew and prospered. This was considered due to the benevolence of the royal family, or more commonly known then, as the Mantle Monarchy.
The Queens chosen to lead the Kingdom were famed for being exceptionally Selfless in their rule. They gave resources freely. They never taxed heavily. They worked tirelessly for the people, often to the detriment of their own health.
How admirable, is it not?
This trend continued until the turning point of one of the Monarchy's fateful generations.
Two sisters were considered candidates for the throne. While one was a true heir, the other was a step-sibling.
Now, I'm sure you've heard the most popular parts of this tale.
To choose the next ruler, a test was conducted. Whosoever's feet fit perfectly into the shoes owned by each presiding generation, was the one meant to rule.
An inane concept, substituted for something greater. If there ever was such a thing, it was created to make sure those of a specific genealogy inherited the throne.
And we know what happens next.
The true heir was favored to rule. She was benevolent and Selfless, just as those who came before her. She was loved by the people. And with the throne, and the power that came with it, the heir was set to bring more good to the Kingdom.
But the evil stepsister grew jealous.
Overcome with greed, she slew the true heir. Her own flesh and blood.
But because she was not a full descendant, her feet did not fit the shoes. So, she sliced off pieces of her own feet. Some say her whole heel was carved off.
She did so until the shoe fit.
The Profane Princess.
And with her, started a game of thrones, as it were. Every descendant after, every generation of royal families— blackmailed, sabotaged, and murdered each other for the right to rule.
That is what the former Kingdom of Mantle is known for now.
Now, comes the part where I ask how much you've been paying attention.
So, Yang Xiao Long.
Have you discerned the tale beneath the tale?
…
"…The Profane Princess didn't just kill her stepsister for the throne," Yang answered.
"No. She did not," Cinder confirmed.
"She killed her for the Fall Maiden's Inheritance. She was the first to kill a Maiden for their powers."
"And started a bloody tradition that continues to this day.
The First Profane Maiden.
My ancestor. My legacy.
Cinder formed a shard of blazing molten glass in her hand.
"That's… terrible," Yang commented after a quiet moment.
"The 'evil' step-sister is painted rather convincingly as the antagonist, wouldn't you agree?"
"Is there any other way to look at it?"
Cinder crushed the polished crystal in her hands with an ear-splitting snap.
"What the stories forget to mention is the war looming the edges of the Mantle Kingdom during that time. That the First Profane Maiden killed the stepsister she cherished with all her heart, because she knew she was too weak, too Selfless to win the war for them.
"In a sense, she too, was so Selfless in that it led to her own self-sacrifice. The princess took actions knowing full well what those around her and in the future would call her. A monster."
Cinder formed a twisted smirk.
"Virtues have a way of weakening one. Even if they have the power, they refuse to use it out of some misplaced sentiment. That was the fault of the true heir. She would have surrendered her Kingdom away for the sake of peace, if allowed to live. What other choice did the Profane Maiden have?" she paused for a moment. "Knowing that, I wonder who was truly the antagonist of the story."
"—Yeah, you're not going to convince me you or your ancestor were misunderstood victims," Yang refuted. "This lesser evil, greater good crap is just something people hide behind to justify doing fucked up shit."
"And you believe those of most purest virtues are in the right? Surely, you've learned better than that on your journey."
"I know owning principles isn't everything. Virtues can lead you astray if that's all you rely on. But you can't live without any either. Like everything, there's a balance. Right or wrong don't exist. Only the actions and decisions people move forward with, and the consequences after."
"My. No wonder you were deemed worthy."
"…What do you mean by that?" Yang kneeled beside Cinder, and grabbed her collar. "What do you mean by that?" she asked again through gritted teeth.
"So, very compassionate is Yang Xiao Long. A true Maiden of Spring. The first in a very long time, I imagine."
"Answer me!"
Yang's temper boiled. She was called Compassionate and worthy by Victoria Stein upon accepting the Maiden's Inheritance. Back then, she assumed they were just parting words, but were they more?
Cinder grabbed Yang's wrist and peeled it off.
"There was an older way the Maidens were chosen. Not by those who'd slain them, or those held in their final moments. They originally meant to stand as judges for their successors. The Inheritance was promised to those who held virtues given on the premise of the very first Maidens."
Cinder brushed her freshly short hair for a second, and continued.
"In the beginning, the Four Maidens searched for a way to help their people. On their journey, they met an old hermit, who gifted them the ability to save their respective Kingdoms.
Mantle, at its earliest conception, was ripe with greed and corruption. So the immortal gifted the Maiden who exemplified Selflessness.
For Vacuo's Maiden, whose lands were the most defeating of all, he gifted their most Hopeful.
And Vale, whose people suffered from sickness and poor health, he granted power to its most Compassionate."
Yang paused, putting together the pieces from Cinder's story.
"That's why there's something wrong with your powers," she tensed. "You killed for your Inheritance."
"Indeed. On the other hand, you removed the thorn from the lion's paw, as it were. Granted a kind peace to an otherwise eternally tortured soul. Compassion," Cinder worded with emphasis.
"And what about the Winter Maiden?"
"I'm not sure. I can fathom a few guesses, but whatever virtue Mistral's Maiden personified has been lost to time."
"Hm," Yang repeated the words. "Hope. Selflessness. Compassion."
"An optimistic ideal. But we know the flaws that lie there."
"…"
"Hope can lead to Naivety. Selflessness can lead to Sacrifice. And Compassion…"
"Yeah?"
"…Blindness. You can see so much of what makes someone flawed that you forget they are that same darkness no matter what reason they have. How often has your compassion blinded you to what things truly are?"
"Not for a long time," Yang answered bitterly. "And?"
"And, what?"
"The First Profane Maiden. The Mantle Monarchy. Where do you come in?"
"Mine is not so grand a tale. Fifteen years ago, the Monarchy was overthrown. In its ruin, rose the capitalist empire of Atlas. My family was stripped of their power. The Fall Maiden's inheritance, taken and hidden away."
"…"
"To ensure we would never rise again, we were hunted. As a child, I was almost killed on a regular basis, simply for bearing my last name."
"…And then, my mom saved you."
"Yes. Raven did." Cinder's expression softened, before hardening again. "And I swore I would never feel such powerlessness again. To live a life that wasn't my own—at the whims of Atlas or Salem. Never again. I'd rather die."
"…"
"As such, my only option, the only way I can exist, is through the destruction of Atlas." Cinder spoke with a fire. A confident certainty Yang had so rarely seen in others. An almost undeniable draw, like gravity. "And I would be lying if I said I wouldn't enjoy watching the Kingdom burn till it was nothing but shadow and ash."
Yang closed her eyes.
She hated how much she could empathize with Cinder. Powerlessness and the desire for freedom were things Yang knew too well. They were more than enough driving forces to cause anyone to seek less-than moral means. She compromised in her own way after all. Not to the lengths Cinder had, but in another time...
Suddenly, Cinder took Yang's chin in her hand, and forced them to lock gazes.
"Emerald was born to be a thief.
You were meant to be a fighter.
…
And I?
My Destiny
Is to Rule."