6
Beacon Dance/Recon in Force/Emeici
Destiny=Bungie
RWBY=Rooster Teeth
Let's do this.
/
Grimoire Unlocked: Task Force Endeavor II
Ikora: Gein.
Edgar: Mentor.
Ikora: You know that you have long since passed my tutelage, Edgar. There is no need for formalities.
Edgar: I know, I know. But, there is something I need to ask you. A favor.
Ikora: What is it, old friend?
Edgar: The veterans from the Little War. I need them on this expedition. Grendel, Furor and Emeici.
Ikora: Hmm?
Edgar: I understand if it is difficult to field these Fireteams...
Ikora: It is not the difficulty, it is the reasoning. Why do you need them?
Edgar: I have enough rookies on the expedition. I also have the more experienced. What I need are the killers. The ones who'll put a knife in your back without hesitation.
Ikora: And why is that?
Edgar: If first contact is hostile and Jackknife is lost to us I need insurance. Insurance that makes damn sure that we get out of any of this alive.
Ikora: Foreboding, but I understand your unease. I'll make the call.
Edgar: Thank you, Mentor.
Ikora: Think nothing of it. Although Zavala might chafe a bit at the fact that they're near the rookies...
Edgar: We all need to grow out of our naiveté some day. Commander Zavala will understand.
/
One year ago...
"Thank you mister..." The little girl mumbled as she sat next to the fire.
Kevin didn't say anything and merely kept an eye out. Vale's wilderness wasn't safe at all but for a veteran Guardian out of his element, it felt strangely familiar. Sure there were beasts out there thirsting for human blood but he had guns. You were a lot safer with guns.
The Warlock sighed. "Where are you from again?" He asked the little girl.
"Um...Portent Settlement." She told him. "I...got a little lost, it's a few minutes away but it's raining."
"I know," Kevin said as he looked at the storm outside. "That and there are beasts out there." He hefted his Zhalo Supercell. "We'll see if this rain let's up and let's see about getting you home okay, little girl?"
"I'm not little!" The girl complained. "I'm eight years old! And my name is Elina!" She was an adorable little thing, regardless of her protests. Of course what disturbed Kevin greatly were the horns growing out of her head like an elk's. Either she was a subject of extreme genetic experimentation or something else was going on.
The Warlock watched as the storm intensified.
Yep, it was going to be a while before they could even head outside.
So he sat and waited, making sure to keep the small soul he had rescued from a bear in his sights. The Warlock would have to move them out soon. He was not about to go out there when visibility was poor and the constant downpour would fuck up the acoustics.
All in all, the creatures of the Grimm knew their territory better than Kevin did. What the Grimm didn't have were opposable thumbs and maximum firepower. Kevin noted something out in the brush and raised his rifle. "Elina. Get back."
The little horned girl paled and did as she was told.
Kevin saw the unmistakable white bone mask of a Werewolf type Grimm and opened fire. He saw another. And another.
And another.
It was going to be a long night, he thought to himself as he fired another long tearing burst into the next beast to come up and die.
/
Presently...
"Hey, Kevin!"
Kevin Holden stopped and looked back to see Sun Wukong, the Monkey Faunus, jogging up to him. "Yes?" He asked.
"Let me guess, you just got told off by Blake too?" Sun asked, sounding upset.
"...I haven't really talked to her for a while." Kevin's tone was quiet. "Why?"
"She uh...snapped at me, you know." Sun said. "All Blake-y like."
Kevin had to admit, Sun was pretty funny. That joke actually put a smile on his face. "True. But we should forgive her choler. I admit I almost lost my patience with her."
Sun didn't know Kevin too well but the guy seemed pretty mellow. He didn't seem like the type to lose his temper. But he shuddered to think what he'd be like when pissed off.
"Ah...well, um...Shoot." Sun scratched at his blonde hair. "Yeah, it's real bad all around. And I don't know what to do."
Yang was still talking to Blake. Kevin decided to let that be the answer. "Yang can take care of it." He told Sun. "She knows Blake better than me or you. Give it time. She'll come around."
Sun looked like he was thinking deeply about it, but then he nodded his head. He looked better already. "Thanks man, I-I guess I was just real worried about Blake."
"She's a good person who pushes herself hard when something needs to be done." Kevin said. "Her perseverance is commendable. Don't be so hard on her."
"I uh...yeah. Sure." Sun scratched the back of his head.
Kevin kept ambling off away from the library, wondering what that was all about.
/
Hestia let loose a furious straight as she pummeled the punching bag. Dressed in a tank top and sweatpants, she was focused entirely on her training. The Titan was thinking quietly about their current situation. Their first objective was complete, they had found Kevin. The second objective was finding whatever it was the Traveler wanted them to find on this planet. Or if there was even anything on this planet to find.
Already she missed the great Walls of the Last City and the amenities of the Tower. The food was great here on Remnant but she'd have to be careful otherwise she'd start gaining weight. The Titan let loose another flurry of punches even as she saw John doing his own thing, shadowboxing with an imaginary opponent. Compared to Hestia, who had raw physical strength and terrifying agility that helped her dominate close quarters John was a bit more about efficiency and ending a fight as quickly as he could before getting hit.
That didn't mean that he didn't hit like a truck though.
She stopped and watched John at work, seemingly striking in every direction at once. Hestia saw the crowd of onlookers and smirked as John finished his kata with a palm strike to an imaginary opponent's throat before lowering his arms. He looked over at Hestia. "What?"
"Nothing love, wanna spar?" She asked.
John shook his head. "Remember the last time you punched me out? Ugh...Fine." He let out a dejected sigh but grinned as he and Hestia entered the sparring ring.
The staff member in charge of the gymnasium just sighed and agreed to proctor the match. Hestia raised her fists as John adopted a fighting stance, one arm behind his back and the other pointed at Hestia palm facing outward.
They rushed at each other with a manic glee.
/
"This is why you two idiots need to calm the fuck down." Kevin grumbled as he visited his brother in the clinic. He didn't seem too badly injured, even if Hestia had launched him across the gymnasium with one miscalculated punch.
"Hes was clearly holding back." John said grinning even as the nurse checked him over before writing down her report and heading out of earshot.
Kevin shook his head. "Doesn't forgive what you two did today." He said quietly. "You guys need to chill on showing them our abilities. Even I have to avoid using the Trance when needed."
"We can just explain it as our Semblances." John's tone was flippant but Kevin knew his brother had considered the event that they were exposed as not entirely normal by Remnant standards. Each and every Guardian had a talent for warfare, Jackknife was no exception. "Easy as pie, but yeah you're right." John's grin faded slightly. "We will continue to lie as we usually have."
Kevin nodded. "I know, it's tough. There are very good people here." He said. "And the dishonesty irks me the same way it does you and Hes." The Warlock shook his head. "How's Hes?"
"She's fine. Goodwitch kinda got mad at her though but she apologized." John gave a grin. "I like her, she'd make a good Warlock."
"Who? Professor Goodwitch?" Kevin asked.
"Yeah!" John said. "Though I bet she's not the dying kind."
Kevin quirked a brow. "She's practically invincible, that one." He commented.
"So...while we're squared with my mistake. Why don't we talk about...the dance?" John's tone was mischievous.
"Blake's not going, and she already told Sun no." Kevin answered, irritable. "Yang's talking to her about going although she did ask me to the dance."
"And...?" John pressed. Kevin was not liking his eager expression.
"I was thinking about it, but she's the one making sure to check everyone in and out so it didn't really work out." Kevin said, getting even more annoyed. "No. I'm not taking Blake with me because she's obviously fucking upset with me as it is."
"Please stop arguing you two." Sparky piped up as he appeared at Kevin's shoulder. "Jingles complained about it and she's pretty sure the nurse is about to check in."
"Hey, come on I'm just having fun." John said.
"At my expense." His brother muttered.
Sparky looked at the two of them sternly with his photoreceptor. "So, Martellus, Jingles and I have been discussing on what we can find on Remnant. We've been thinking...could it be possible that a piece of the Traveler is here?" He changed the subject immediately before another crisis occurred.
"You mean like the one we found on the Moon, in the Chamber of Night..." Kevin said, thinking on his Ghost's speculations.
"Could be," John shrugged his shoulders. "You'll never know what can be found out here. Maybe we might find an old Golden Age explorer cache or something."
"Jingles really does want us to head on out but we really can't leave Beacon without clearance." Sparky said. "Of course, Martellus also thinks that the readings could be bullshit so I guess we're not really sure on what to do. When should we all meet up?"
"Weekend after the dance. I'm hearing rumors that all first year huntsmen are going to be assigned missions." John said. "I'll see if Ozpin's willing to lend you to me seeing as you're technically a student at Beacon."
"Fuck, well there goes free time." Kevin muttered. Sparky turned to the door and then disappeared as the nurse came back in to check on John. She gave a pointed to Kevin who took that as a signal to leave.
He gave his brother a parting wave. John just grinned in response.
/
The next night...
This was it. The Beacon Dance.
Kevin pulled his jacket on and sighed. Already he felt completely restricted. He hated formal clothing and honestly just wished that he could attend in his Halliaetus II. But nope, everyone had to wear formal wear. So he was stuck wearing a monkey suit for his troubles.
The Stormcaller looked at his reflection in the mirror. "Fuck this shit." He muttered before heading out towards the ballroom across the amphitheatre. He walked a bit reluctantly, seeing as he was going alone and really did not want to see anyone on the way there. Usually, going to a dance alone was embarrassing but considering that Kevin Holden was a Warlock who was more than capable of stopping someone's heart with a well aimed palm strike no one was willing to risk saying anything insulting.
It also helped that Kevin had an intimidating personality.
"Stupid, frigging neck trap!" He heard someone grouse.
Sun was fiddling with his tie, he was wearing his usual outfit except for the fact that his shirt was buttoned up and tucked in. All in all he looked rather annoyed with the neck tie most of all.
Kevin shrugged his shoulders. He really should have decided to just forgo his tie and went in anyway. Who was going to complain?
The Warlock ignored the monkey Faunus and slipped into the ballroom and looked around. He was quite impressed really. RWBY had done a good job with decorating. He walked over to the sound system to inspect it and smiled slightly as he saw that the wiring was in better shape.
"You're here already?"
Kevin turned around to see Yang, all spruced up for the dance. Her dress was a pure white, showing off a hint of cleavage. The Warlock swallowed the lump in his throat. She was beautiful. Extremely so. Kevin banished the thought in his head.
"Yeah, my brother got me to go." He looked down at his shoes. "Happy now?" He said looking back at Yang.
Yang giggled. "You totally owed him for something didn't you?"
Kevin sighed. "Yeah, I did." He said.
The Warlock was recalcitrant. Yang's smile faded slightly. "Hey, listen...thanks for helping Blake out. Really." She said softly. "It means a lot to me. And Ruby of course."
"Is she coming here?" Kevin asked out of curiosity.
"Yeah, I convinced her." Yang cheerfully answered.
"How?" Kevin looked at the time, realizing they had quite a bit of time to chat for a while before the dance actually began.
"You look like you don't believe I did," Yang gave a look of fake hurt before grinning. "I used my natural charisma of course."
Kevin felt his lip curl. "Really?"
"Yeah." Yang said. She then walked over to one of the windows. Kevin followed. It was a clear night, and the shattered moon was visible in the sky. Which worried him. Was a Hive God slumbering up there? Was that why no one on Remnant had no desire to walk in the light of different stars?
So many questions.
"I told her about my mom." Kevin kept silent as she told him what she told Blake. "She...went missing after I was born and I've spent ten years looking for her. Blake...she was obsessed, like I was. I don't want her to end up hurt or worse. I think I got to her."
Yang looked at Kevin and smiled. "She said you got angry at her."
Kevin sighed. "Didn't want to be." He told her. "But I was more than content with letting her sort herself out."
"Oh." Yang closed her mouth. "Was it that bad?" She asked after a pause.
"We had an argument, but that was it." Kevin was stoic as he always was. "I've seen more than enough people destroy themselves with their obsession. It's...good that Blake's going to be okay."
"Yeah," Yang smiled. "She's going to be fine."
Another pause.
Kevin had a distinct feeling that there was more to this small talk than he realized. Yang had told him something pretty personal. He felt...honored that she would put her trust in someone like him for some reason. He looked at Yang through his peripherals. Good thing Sparky was discussing things at length with Jingles and Martellus, otherwise there would be problems. The Warlock exhaled quietly. "So...what's up?" He asked.
"Not much, just...wondering if you want to hang out tomorrow?" Yang said. "Just the two of us?"
"Out in the city?" Kevin asked.
"Nah, just wanna spar for a few..." Yang said. "Is that gonna be okay?"
Kevin shrugged. "If you need help, sure." He told her. "Don't be surprised though, I take things rather seriously."
"Ah, I wouldn't have asked if you weren't." Yang grinned. "I ain't a pushover you know."
"Sure, sure." Kevin said.
/
The dance began in earnest after Ozpin's little speech. They were warriors, he had told all of the gathered Beacon students, but that did not mean that they weren't human. It was poignant and to the point. Wise words, Kevin mused as the Headmaster stepped down off the podium.
The music was a soft, classical piece he was really not familiar with.
Damn. What he would give for some good ol ACDC. This ballroom shit was way too soft.
/
"I hate these stupid lady stilts..." Ruby mumbled, looking embarrassed. She had nearly tripped walking in her heels but Hestia had luckily caught the smaller girl before she could fall.
"Then why did you wear them?" Hestia asked as she took a drink from her glass of punch.
"Weiss gave them to me since she said I couldn't find any good shoes." Ruby answered as she glared down at her feet. "I swear I don't know how she fights in these things."
"Hey!" Weiss gave an indignant cry.
"Well, I can't wear heels." Hestia said as she looked at her own shoes. "I keep breaking them."
Ruby giggled slightly as the Titan leaned back in her seat. Hestia exhaled. "Never wear heels if you're not used to them. It sucks, trust me."
"Yeah," John nodded solemnly. "I remembered when you broke the pair Loraine gave you as a present. Have you told her yet?"
"No." Hestia said. "That woman is a complete lunatic. I don't see how the other two on her team deal with her."
"Hes, you work with her in the little Art club she started." Kevin pointed out.
"Not her," Hestia countered. "Commander Zavala."
"Wait, what!?" Kevin looked flabbergasted. "When did this happen?"
"Who's Zavala?" Blake asked.
"One of Tower's commanders." John answered vaguely. He looked at Kevin. "What? This surprises you?"
"I've never heard this before." The younger Holden was honestly surprised. "Still, I guess someone has to have their hobbies after all."
"The man makes the most wonderful scarves." Hestia commented putting her chin in her hand. "Did you know he also knows how to cook?"
"Huh." John leaned back in his seat. "Must be nice, all I know about cooking is how long it takes to microwave something."
"You do realize that is rather unhealthy right?" Weiss asked him. "All those preservatives-"
"A man's gotta eat." John shrugged at Weiss's scowl. "I don't have time to cook for myself."
"So that's why you always head to my quarters back at Tower." Kevin looked annoyed. "Because I can actually cook worth a damn. I was wondering what happened to my leftovers."
"Uh...Yeah?" John looked at him as though he had grown two heads. "Rations suck."
"Wait. You know how to cook?" Weiss asked.
"I'm not five star material if that's what you're asking princess." Kevin crossed his arms seemingly looking proud of himself. "But I can damn well cook a mean omelet."
"I'll take you up on that." Yang said laughing as Weiss regarded Kevin with a glower at her nickname.
/
"Wonder what went on with him and Pyrrha." John gestured to Jaune who looked completely guilt ridden. Kevin shrugged as he walked with his brother and Hestia around the area.
"Fuck if I know." Kevin said. "Jaune's been trying to go woo Weiss if I remember correctly."
"Humph." Hestia grunted. "And Pyrrha didn't like that I assume?"
"Probably not." John commented. "In the meantime we got some privacy...So, how are we going to deal with the White Fang shits?"
"Easy." Kevin said as he looked at his hand which crackled slightly with Arc energy. "We kill them."
"You said that you and RWBY found some kind of clue right?" John asked. "That they're operating in the South Eastern region of Vale?"
"Yes." Kevin nodded. "So what are we going to do?"
"I'm gonna try and see if we can get assigned to that area." John rubbed his chin thinking. "Once there, we'll assess the situation. See what we can do to find out more info." The Sunsinger looked at his teammates seriously. "I assume that the both of you are ready for battle?"
"Always will be." Kevin remarked. "I-"
The Warlock turned his head to the side. He was sensing someone around this area.
"Sparky?" Kevin asked.
"It's Blake, Kevin." The Ghost was invisible and was currently patrolling the area for anything interesting.
John and Hestia were looking at him expectantly. "It's...Blake." Kevin said, hesitating.
"Ah...well, we'll leave you to it." John told Kevin with a wry smile. "Come on, Hes. Let's see if there's still some more punch."
When they left Kevin scratched at his nose. He steeled himself for when Blake called his name.
"Blake." He saw her approaching from the side, she looked nice in formal wear. And the lovely black bow hiding her ears seemed to enhance her looks. Kevin had never seen such a shade of amber in a girl's eyes.
Why was he thinking about this?
"Hi." Blake exhaled. "...I wanted to say I was sorry for snapping at you that one day in the library." She looked down at her feet. "It was...wrong for me to say those things to someone who was trying to help."
Kevin exhaled patiently. "It's fine," He said. "I shouldn't have been sarcastic with you."
"No...What you said was right. I won't solve anything by being dead." Blake shook her head. "Is John around?"
"He just left unfortunately." Kevin said.
/
"D'aww..." John snickered as he and Hestia sat in the bushes a few meters away from Kevin and Blake.
"This is so messed up." Hestia said. "So messed up, you're never going to let him live this down aren't you?"
"I will. If something doesn't happen." John told her. The Titan just shook her head.
John continued watching. Beside his head Sparky and Jingles just sighed dejectedly as they continued spying on their teammate.
/
"Oh," Blake nodded. "I...I see."
"You shouldn't worry too much." Kevin said. "Just say sorry, that's all you need to do. John's not so easily hurt."
Blake could not understand it. Despite his cold demeanor, Kevin was patient. Extremely so, she had been a nasty piece of work for about a week. He didn't hold it against her, not even now. She sighed.
"You're strong. You know that?" Blake told him honestly. "How do you do it?"
"Do what?" Kevin tilted his head.
"Soldier on when bad things are happening."
Kevin thought about it. "I guess I just...refuse to falter." He said. "I just have to keep going forward. I understand that the White Fang are worrying you, but they're going to pop up someday. And we're gonna have to go up and face them."
He left out the fact that he was already thinking about leaving Beacon with his Fireteam. Kevin thought it was better that Blake and Yang didn't know that.
It would be less...painful.
"Refuse..." Blake gave a bitter chuckle. "I wish I had your strength, Kevin."
The Warlock sighed. "You shouldn't." Kevin told her. "You'll get tired of being a killer like me."
"You..." Blake hesitated slightly. "I know you told me that you've killed someone before."
"I did. And it was more than one person. They were raiders." Kevin said. "I had to protect people from them."
Kevin didn't like to mention to anyone that he was quite proficient at killing humans as well as the myriad forces of the Darkness. Many Guardians had kill counts in the thousands, but those were mostly Crucible matches or nonhuman entities. Kevin had killed human adversaries before.
These were men who lived as raiders out beyond the Walls. It was extremely dirty work, even the Vanguard didn't approve of it much. But every human survivor who wished to run into the City's arms was welcome to go there. The men who called themselves Raiders were not helping in that regard.
Kevin had volunteered for that "little war" as Ikora Rey called it. Months of brutal combat against human foes who fought with desperation to keep what settlements they had taken. He did not wish to speak about it. He did not want to think about it.
"They were bad people right?" Blake asked him.
"Moralizing it makes it even more tiresome." Kevin answered quietly. "Some of those men just wanted to survive. It was me or them."
Blake blanched at his cold demeanor. She felt sad when Kevin looked at her with a solemn expression. "My brother always told me that I had a singular force of will." He told her. "Many like you find it to be a strength. But I dream of the things I have done to protect the innocent. I see the people I killed every time I peer through the scope of my rifle. You could pity me for that at least."
Blake blinked. She felt for Kevin, she really did.
"I'm sorry." She whispered. "I didn't mean to pry."
"Don't be." Kevin said. "I made the choice to follow this path. I'll see it through."
/
There had been an explosion.
John and Hestia had already armored up and had their weapons in hand as they approached the Cross Continental Transmit tower from its western flank. Keeping his head low, John saw the shadow of someone moving across a rooftop in the sights of his Scout Rifle, Colovance's Duty, a weapon forged for the Iron Banner. The Sunsinger signaled Hestia to a stop as he trailed the figure heading back towards the Academy with his sights.
"Should I go after them?" Jingles whispered.
"Negative. Hestia go back to the Academy and check it out, Martellus go with her."
The other Ghost answered. "Sure thing," Hestia nodded her head and headed back to the Academy keeping a low profile. Well, as much of a low profile a Titan could do. John looked to Jingles. "We'll keep an eye out and then we'll head inside the CCT and see what's up."
John settled in behind cover, keeping the area framed in the sights of his rifle. Interesting...Was this a sign that things were picking up?
The Warlock watched as General Ironwood walked out of the building with Ruby Rose in tow. The poor girl looked paler than usual. Had she followed the infiltrator and forced her out of the tower? Ironwood should have been happy about that. John was also impressed. Ruby Rose had talent, maybe she'd make a good Guardian.
John watched the guards as they swept the perimeter. The Sunsinger looked for a gap in their search pattern and quickly moved into the tower. The moment he slipped inside the Tower lobby John made a beeline for the elevators.
"Ah..." He said as he looked at the red flashing lights above the elevator. "They disabled it. Jingles, hack this." The Sunsinger flexed his fingers. "I'll...deal with any interlopers."
"On it." Jingles whispered quietly.
/
The next day...
They had the amphitheatre to themselves.
Yang let loose a burst of pellets at Kevin who raised his Bolt Caster in defense. The buckshot was easily fended off by the shield of energy the sword projected. Kevin, in full gear, moved forward sword raised. He suddenly went in with a deep lunge, bringing his sword up so quickly Yang barely had time to react.
She dodged the quick underhanded thrust Kevin threw at her, keeping at a distance from his sword. Kevin lowered his blade before segueing into his ready stance, the point of his sword at Yang's throat.
"Hold on time out!" Yang panted as she formed her hands into a T.
Kevin relaxed his stance, the silver faceplate of his helmet facing her. "You have a question?" He asked, seeing her bow furrow.
"Ugh, this is so annoying!" Yang looked frustrated. "I can't get close...your spacing is really, really, good!"
"My weapon has a longer reach than yours." Kevin said blithely. "And we're kind of in a wide open area, Yang. Did you think about the environment before your fights?"
"I usually don't." Yang grinned. "Because I beat the crap out of my opponents before they try anything tricky or complex."
"Ah, but now you're up against someone who knows how to play to his strengths." Kevin pointed out. "I know you're a close quarters fighter and the area is nice and open. So that means I can keep my distance."
Yang scowled. "So get over here and fight, and stop poking me with that spear you're holding." She gave a grin as Kevin stiffened slightly. Oh yeah, she got him with that one.
"I know what you mean by that, you minx." Kevin muttered. "Anyway, why should I get in close? You're trying to punch me in the head. So I'm gonna stay back here nice and safe where your fists can't reach me. And poke you to death with this sword."
Kevin knew that he walked into that one. Yang had a knowing grin on her face.
He readied his blade. Yang's smile dropped instantly. "Come on, we're sparring remember?" Kevin said, his sword sparking energy. "I'm not going to hold back."
Yang's Ember Celica unfolded. "I ain't either."
/
"Whoo!" Yang stretched. "That was a good work out, yeah?"
Kevin nodded, removing his helmet. "Yes. Never did expect you to just grab me by the neck. Or throw me headfirst at the wall but hey ingenuity." He scratched at his unruly hair.
Yang took a sip out of the bottle of water she brought with her, all the while looking at Kevin's grey streaked black hair. Was he graying prematurely? She once took that question to Weiss, to say that she was horribly offended was an understatement.
"What's up?" Kevin asked as they headed back to the locker room to change.
"Oh, well...you've got a lot of grey hair." Yang pointed out.
"John was the lucky one." Kevin said. "Someone told me that I'd probably be grey by the time I reach thirty. It's...not so bad really. I just gotta watch what I eat."
Yang grinned. So that's why Kevin was a bit of a health nut. She had seen his mortified expression whenever Ruby consumed what looked like Remnant's entire cookie supply. He didn't say much about it though.
"Okay." Kevin looked at her warily. "Every time I see that grin you're either planning something or you're making fun of me."
"What?" Yang shook her head. "No! I was just remembering the first time you saw Ruby eat all those cookies for dessert. Baked them myself really."
"Ah," Kevin nodded sagely. "Family recipe?"
Yang gave a small smile. "Yeah..."
Kevin remained silent. "Shit, sorry." He scratched his head. "I'm probably trading on thin ice aren't I?"
"No..." Yang said. "It's just...Ruby misses her. Heck, I do too."
Kevin's eyes softened. "You have my condolences." He told her quietly.
Yang appreciated that. She really did.
/
It was bad enough that they had been found at Tukson's Book Trade. Emerald Sustrai watched carefully from a distance as she recognized the smiling young man from their earlier encounter with him.
He was currently talking to a Faunus girl with rabbit ears, all small talk from what she was seeing. Emerald did not want to make any contact with Sunny Smiles at all.
It was Mercury's nickname, not hers.
Emerald quietly kept an eye out even as the Rabbit girl walked off. She then ended up leaving as she heard the five minute bell go off. She did not notice John Holden's eyes following her.
/
"You're positive it's them?" Jingles asked John who smiled and nodded.
"Yeah, I know it's them." John said. "I've never met a girl with hair that green."
"You mean Keina doesn't count?" Jingles asked pedantically.
"Technically, Miss Keina has white hair." John admonished his Ghost patiently.
"So what are we going to do?" Kevin asked his twin. "You're telling me that these two transfer students have connections to the White Fang. Do we take action?"
"No. We don't have proof." Hestia said.
"Since when have we cared about bloody proof?" Martellus asked. "We shoot bad guys remember?"
"We're the only ones who know who they truly are." John said patiently. "Without proof, our actions may make the entire school staff...antagonistic against us. We'll let things stew for now, and soon we'll have our proof. The opportunity to cut them down will reveal itself in time."
"And if they get the drop on us first?" Hestia asked.
"We'll still kill them either way." John smiled.
Kevin shook his head slightly. "Still...What if someone else gets involved with them?"
"Then whoever that person is better hope to get out of our way."
/
"What. The. Fuck." Kevin dropped the controller in his lap as he saw his character get eaten alive by the dragon on screen.
"Damn," John said, resting his chin in his hand. "If I were you, I'd learn how to abuse those I-frames."
"I had him down to one bar of goddamn health!" Kevin snapped. "'Avoid the tail', yeah that's bullshit! His tracking and turning speed is godly!"
"It would help if you kept to his right side you know." Sparky said over the mental link.
Kevin would have answered but Yang was far too busy trying hard not to laugh, her shoulders were shaking. The Stormcaller glowered at her before turning back to the screen.
"Come on Kevin," Yang said as she tried to get her laughter under control. "That was just the first boss!"
"Whatever..." Kevin muttered. "I'm gonna kill this dragon asshole if it's the last thing I do."
Blake looked up from her book, scowling a little before she shrugged and continued reading.
In the meantime Hestia and Weiss were chatting about something that involved girly things that Yang didn't like so she drifted off and offered to play some video games with John and Kevin. Ruby had been summoned to the Headmaster's office for something.
"Fuck's sake!" Kevin muttered as he mashed a button on the controller. "How the hell am I supposed to-Goddamnit, I died again!"
Yang fully descended into a laughing wreck while John just shook his head. "Here, come on give me the damn controller." He said as he grabbed the controller from Kevin's hands.
"Now how do I play this?"
"They are so immature..." Weiss muttered.
"Leave them to it," Hestia said. "It's gonna be hard the following weeks, considering that we've got missions and all that." She looked at Weiss's tiara again. "Hmm...That looks nice."
"It's a Mistral Exclusive." Weiss bragged. "I have a catalogue if you'd like to see more."
"Ah, that's good. John and I have been thinking about getting new rings for our wedding..." Hestia mused. The silence surprised her. The Titan realized she was suddenly the center of attention.
"What?"
"Hold on one moment..." Weiss said. "You two have engagement rings?"
"Yes." Hestia answered. "John and I are engaged." She held up her hand, a ring clearly around her finger.
Weiss looked flabbergasted as Blake and Yang looked at John who scratched his head. There was a similar ring on his hand also.
"How..." Weiss asked.
"They keep it a secret." Kevin said, a bit annoyed. "It's a commonplace thing back where we come from." He looked at Yang. "Keep it quiet will you?"
"Sure," Yang nodded. "Although..." She grinned. "This makes your team dynamic rather awkward wouldn't it?"
John shook his head laughing uncomfortably as Kevin rolled his eyes before turning back to the screen and killing the boss.
"Yang!" Weiss looked scandalized. "Don't be so crude!"
Yang waved her off grinning. "Aren't you a little curious?"
"Please don't ask me what I think you're asking." Kevin muttered. He then suddenly leaped up to his feet. "Yes!" He crowed. "Finally! Screw you, you big scaly bastard! You are so dead-what the fuck. Really? A rock?"
"Wow," John said. "All that effort for a damn rock."
Yang grinned. "Don't be so disappointed, that rock's really important."
She then walked over and sat beside Kevin as she told him what to do.
The door opened and Ruby walked in looking glum.
"Hey Rubes..Are you okay?" Yang asked as she stood up to meet her sister who walked over to her bed and sat down. She regarded her sister with a guilty glance before looking down at her hands.
"I'm fine, Yang." Ruby mumbled. "Just...well, I can't really talk about it."
"You can tell us." Weiss said approaching.
"W-Well..." Ruby took a deep breath and began explaining just why she was summoned.
/
"We have to take action Ozpin." Ironwood growled. "The enemy was here! On Beacon's grounds! Oz, I understand your concerns but we need to take action now!"
"We still do not know if the person Ruby encountered in the Cross Continental Transmit Tower is the same person she faced before the first semester began." Ozpin replied calmly.
"A rash action would be unwise, James." Glynda spoke up. "It would cause far too much panic-"
"Panic!" Ironwood sounded irritated. "We have a chance to deal with the threat once and for all. Your student did say that the White Fang were operating in the south east. Think about it, Oz. I could send an airborne unit to deal with the problem right now."
"And here we go again with the military bravado." Glynda's reply was sarcastic and biting. "Is this how you treat every situation, James? Like a contest for measuring di-"
"Glynda!" Ozpin sounded scandalized. The headmaster then sighed as he regarded his two compatriots with a serious gaze.
"Alright, before our meeting descends into a shouting match." Ozpin looked at Ironwood with a pointed gaze. "I will have to agree with Glynda. Our enemy may have planned several moves in case we do something drastic."
Ironwood counted to ten. "I have been your ally for many years Ozpin, but if you are really planning on hunkering down-"
"I am not." Ozpin spoke calmly, but there was an underscore of quiet anger in the Headmaster's voice. There was a reason he was considered the most powerful man in Vale. "But you are a General, James. When you start a war who do you send out first? Your banners? Or your scouts?"
"The scouts." James answered. He sighed.
Ozpin sat back down and finished his mug of tea. "Yes. The scouts, I need you to trust me James. I know you are pressed for time against an enemy who is moving very quickly."
"Far too quickly." James Ironwood agreed.
"So...we will let this subject rest for now." Ozpin nodded. "Now, I hear from Glynda that you have spoken with the Holdens?"
"...They're sharp." Ironwood told Ozpin. "Extremely so. Kevin Holden outright stopped talking to me when I tried to ask about his combat experience. John Holden and Hestia Munroe knew to change the subject. These three are dangerous Ozpin."
"Dangerous?" Goodwitch asked.
"Quite so." Ironwood said. "I've seen a lot of Specialists come and go during my tenure as General. I've seen some stone cold fighters. Those three scare me. John Holden especially."
"He's a polite young man." Glynda said, looking perturbed. "How exactly does someone like him scare you?"
"There is nothing good hiding behind that smile." Ozpin spoke quietly. "I myself have spoken to him alone. I cannot read his mind, but I am positive he had considered drawing a weapon and shooting me right then and there. Twice."
The headmaster sighed as he noted Glynda's aghast expression. "Eventually, we will have to confront them. But the White Fang and their mysterious compatriots will have to take priority."
"And if these three are working for the White Fang?" Glynda asked. "Should we not question them first?"
"I must say that they aren't involved." Ozpin said. "But they are biding their time for something. For good or ill I do not know."
/
"Well, you did try to stop what was happening." Weiss said to Ruby who still looked a little down.
"But you did well, considering the circumstances." Blake told her.
"Yeah!" Yang said. "And don't worry Rubes, I'm sure that whatever Dad sent us in the mail will cheer you up."
Ruby suddenly gasped out loud. "Dad sent us goodies!?" She then rushed over in a storm of rose petals and attempted to grab at the cylinder Yang pulled out.
"The hell is that?" Kevin asked.
"Don't know, maybe it is goodies." Yang said and shook the cylinder once.
They all watched as another smaller cylinder fell out of the container and onto the carpet. John reached behind his back for his sidearm as the smaller cylinder shook once before turning into a small dog. Which stared at all of them in turn. It barked.
Yang and Ruby suddenly looked excited. Weiss had a confused look on her face. Blake...had jumped on top of one of the beds.
"ZWEI!" Ruby squealed as she picked up the Corgi in her arms.
"Your father...sent a dog through the mail." Weiss stated.
"Yep." Yang didn't look surprised. "He does this all the time."
"You mean he stuffs your family pet into a cylinder and sends him though the mail." Kevin deadpanned. "How is that not abusive?"
"Hey, come on!" Yang exclaimed. "Zwei is a pretty flexible dog."
"He did conform into a cylinder." Hestia agreed.
John had held out his hand for Zwei to sniff. The Corgi barked again and licked at his hand. The Sunsinger grinned as he pet the dog. "He's an adorable little fella isn't he?"
"That he is." Ruby cooed as she scratched Zwei's belly.
Kevin crossed his arms.
Yang picked up the note and read out loud.
Girls,
I'm leaving the island for a little while so I sent Zwei to you so you can take care of him. Don't worry about buying dog food I sent enough for him until you head back to Patch for break.
As always, take care of yourselves.
Love,
Dad.
PS: Your friend Kevin seems quite interesting. Please give him my regards and I do hope to meet him someday.
"Dad..." Yang rolled her eyes.
"So...Your dad wants to meet my brother huh?" John grinned. "Trying to get his approval to date you?"
"Yep!" Yang looked at Kevin.
The Stormcaller had an irritated scowl. "That's a funny joke, guys. Thanks." He said. "How does he know about me anyway?"
Ruby looked embarrassed. "I told him about you." She said. "I write to him often, he's such a worrywart. Even before...well, before mom died."
"I see..." Kevin nodded. Blake, from her perch, noticed the look that passed between John and Kevin. It was brief but they seemed...concerned about something. It was then that all three of them glanced at Ruby and Yang, again briefly, before John settled back into his usual smile and the other two back to their stoic masks.
Blake narrowed her eyes. What were they planning to do? And why did it involve Ruby and Yang?
The intercom interrupted her thoughts and Miss Goodwitch's voice echoed throughout the Academy.
Would all first years please report to the amphitheatre.
/
"Atlas. Vacuo. Mistral. Vale. Four Kingdoms. Today, we stand together. It was on this day that eighty years ago, the largest war in the history of Remnant ended. We fought out of ignorance, greed and oppression. It was not just about where borders fell or which territory belonged to who. It was about individualism. We fought for many reasons, like the destruction of art and self expression..."
Kevin drifted off after that. Control. The Great War was about control. The Golden Age had its own share of troubles but it was not just about scientific advancement of the human race. It brought about sweeping social changes, but there would always be strife so long as two humans had differing ideals.
Remnant was strangely very naive. The Stormcaller wondered if they could ever weather the Darkness. If these people could count on their "bonds", when Human and Faunus still hated and feared each other.
"...Which is why today, Huntsmen and Huntresses strive to keep up these lofty ideals. As first years, you will be assigned to shadow a veteran Huntsman on a mission. You may be operating outside of the walls of the city. Some of you may be patrolling the streets of Vale. I want all of you to remember your training. And please, stay safe."
"Ugh..." John said as the student crowds dispersed. "The lines for the bounty boards here are just as worse as the lines for the damn Cryptarchs."
"At least we're not getting ripped off." Hestia commented.
Kevin agreed. "Thank the Traveler that Cayde beat him over the head with a sack of doorknobs."
Fireteam Jackknife was in full regalia. Their armor and weapons were ready, but for a Guardian it was the man or woman holding the weapon that was far more important.
"Let's see..." John said as he approached the holographic displays showing all available missions. "Hmm...Quadrant 2 scouting run with an Atlesian squad, nope. Quadrant 9 has need of assistance...way too far."
"Here..." Kevin pointed. "Quadrant 4, easy recon and eradication run."
"It's close." Hestia said. "Martellus says it's only a few klicks away from the south eastern White Fang operation."
"Good." John smiled. His tone was chipper. "Let's select that and boogie on out of here..."
/
Abandoned Dust Quarry Number 49
"I'll be back in a few hours!" The Bullhead pilot announced. "Stay safe you three!"
Kevin watched as the Bullhead's ramp drop. Hestia took point as John followed her. Kevin covered the area with The First Curse before following last. Their objectives were simple, Vale wanted to have their quarry back. But they couldn't spare anyone to do the recon duty. Which was why Fireteam Jackknife took the job.
They touched down on Quarry 49 at exactly 1500 hours in the afternoon.
"Well, this looks like a miserable shit-pit." Kevin remarked.
It did. The quarry was a sprawling mess of mining equipment, foliage and untouched crystalline formations of Dust particles. The Cryptarchs would have had a field day with this shit. Kevin could hear all three Ghosts chattering excitably about the boatload of data they could find.
"Either way, we're doing survey work." John said. "...For a mining operation."
"That pilot must be laughing." Hestia commented.
"Well, he can go fuck himself with the control stick of his Bullhead." Kevin said. "Let's see what 49 has to offer. I'll go sweep the western quadrant. Let's go Sparky."
"Taking right." Hestia shook her head. "Martellus, come on shake a leg."
"Roger Dodger." Martellus commented.
"I'll go look for records on what happened, watch out for Grimm the both of you. We're tough, we can't die...but we're still vulnerable." John spoke up.
"I suppose the thanatonauts will like to see how it feels to be eaten alive." Jingles said.
"That's a horrible joke." Kevin remarked.
/
First things first. John hit the mining overseer's office. The door was ajar. There was no need to guess as to what happened to the overseer.
Or why there was a bunch of old crimson smears all over the ground.
John shouldered the Invective shotgun as he walked in. Jingles provided a light for him. "Not a lot to work with." She told John as she floated around the office. John let her make scans while he looked for a Scroll, assuming Jingles found one.
Ghosts didn't have hands after all.
"Well, shit." John said as he spotted the Scroll hidden in a desk. "Jingles, can you see if you can work with this?" The Scroll looked like it had seen better days. The screen was cracked and it was covered in dust.
Jingles floated over. "Hmm...You always give me crap to work with John!" She complained but she did scan it.
John just rolled his eyes and hoped the other two were doing better.
The sound of gunshots were particularly worrying. But John hadn't received any calls for assistance yet.
/
It was a Beowolf.
"Was" being the most important word here. The creature was now a smoldering wreck, its head twisted at an unnatural angle. Hestia looked at the abandoned crane and checked out the wreckage of its controls. That was worrying.
If the Grimm actively went after humanity's machines as well as itself then this destruction meant that the Grimm can learn. From what the data packets that Sparky had distributed about the Grimm had said, the Grimm got smarter the older they got.
She heard a growl. Hestia turned to see another pair of Beowolves. And their cousins too. She hefted her SUROS Regime and opened fire on them. The leader of the pack danced to the impact of the rounds as the others tried to circle around her.
Smart. But it would take more than that to take down a Titan.
Hestia sensed movement to her right and ducked under a wild claw swipe meant to take her head, without missing a beat Hestia pushed forward and rammed her shoulder into the beast's abdomen. The stench going through her filters was revolting.
The Beowolf squealed as it fell backwards. Hestia finished it off with a burst of rifle fire. She then looked to see what was left of the pack fleeing for their lives. The Titan stepped off the smoldering corpse of the Grimm she had slain.
"You see that Martellus?" She asked.
"Yep. I suppose the younger ones would have kept trying to kill you. And promptly fail. Miserably I might add." Martellus answered. "Shall we keep going?"
"All we're finding is ruined machinery, no Scrolls, no nothing. Which is a bit discomforting." Hestia said checking her ammunition. "Might as well keep going."
"Hey guys." Kevin's voice sounded on the COMs.
Martellus quickly connected to the squad frequency.
"Might have found something interesting here. Sparky, give them a marker to our location."
/
They found Kevin crouched in front of the cave looking at something before he stood up holding what looked like the cover of a small crate.
"Check this out." Kevin said as he tossed the cover to John who caught it one handed.
John looked at the symbol painted on it and made sure to confirm it with Jingles. The snowflake symbol belonged to the Schnee Dust Company.
"Ammo crates." Kevin said. "Sparky says someone's been moving a lot of stores from here. I'm betting it's the White Fang."
"Yeah, it could be. But how has nobody noticed anything?" John asked. "Vale has a large scale terrorist cell operating just beyond its borders...there is no way that they are this unprepared."
"Maybe the White Fang is using the Grimm to hide their activities." Hestia suggested. "Or their government is utterly incompetent."
"Like...every form of government." Jingles spoke up. "There may be members of the Vale Council that are competent."
"She was making a joke, Jingles." Martellus commented. "Don't take things so seriously."
"Enough with the chatter." John said. "Sparky, what else do you have?"
"We explored the cave and found more ordnance crates and Dust containers. All empty." Sparky reported.
"Then we'd better get someone important on the line."
/
Beacon Academy
"Are you certain of this?"Ozpin asked John Holden who had pressed for his attention.
"Yes sir." John's helmeted head nodded on screen. "If there were any other Huntsmen or Atlesian Military Units operating in this area, they'd have disposed of these crates properly. I'm betting that something big is going on in this area."
Ozpin looked to Glynda and Ironwood, both were listening attentively.
"In the meantime, I'm pulling my team out, Headmaster." John said to Ozpin directly. "Something's up...and I'd rather be prepared for it than sitting around here doing nothing."
When he hung up Ozpin put his Scroll down and looked at Ironwood.
"Well?"
"I'm mobilizing one of my airborne units." James Ironwood told him. "I just hope that the other team you sent out has also found something."
"Bartholomew has not reported anything troubling." Glynda spoke up, holding her Scroll. "But he did mention seeing some Goliaths patrolling near the walls."
"Wait, Goliaths!?" Ironwood sputtered.
"We have had disturbing reports about them." Ozpin sipped his mug calmly. "They're looking for weaknesses in our borders. I have been trying to get the Council to put out an alert. I just hope they listen to my advice."
/
"You think they'll do something?" John asked over their private channel as they boarded the Bullhead, to head back into Beacon.
"Probably." Kevin said. "I'd be worried too if I had evidence of armaments being smuggled into my backyard."
Fireteam Jackknife was moving back to Beacon, Ozpin had told them to act as standby in case something happens. To Kevin, it seemed a good thing to do considering that they were going to need a lot of Huntsmen on point if the White Fang were going to do something big.
Kevin was already reminded of the "Little War".
/
Earth, European Dead Zone, Fireteam Emeici, Many years ago...
"Emeici Lead, I have visual on enemy patrol. Looks like they have a bunch of slaves with them."
Kevin Holden calmly counted to ten as he looked though the scope of his Sniper Rifle. The Warlock kept his breathing even as he waited for Zhang's signal.
"Emeici Lead to Emeici Three, you are clear for engagement. Watch your fire around those civilians. We'll take their left flank while Fireteam Grendel is on the way to cut off their retreat. We move on your shot. Out."
"Three copies," Kevin said. "Out." He exhaled. Hidden behind some rubble, the Warlock was crouched in the second story of a ruined apartment overlooking a rubble filled plaza, where the Guardian Fireteams were scattered over the area in ambush positions. The barrel of his rifle drifted slightly before Kevin steadied his aim. His breathing slowed, the Warlock waited and let his crosshairs settle on the first raider.
The bastard was wearing patchwork armor. He had counted a total of ten men. The slaves numbered around five. Two of the slavers were having their way with one of the women. A cold fury surged through Kevin's body but he beat it down with an iron will, and the satisfaction that the slavers would get theirs soon.
Kevin slowed his breathing even more before he steadied his rifle and slowly put pressure on the trigger.
The shot was perfect. It punched right through his target's head and splattered the area with blood and brains.
The ten slavers drew their makeshift weapons and began to scatter.
"Grendel! Emeici! ENGAGE!"
The little plaza erupted into chaos as Guardian Fireteams suddenly revealed themselves from cover, their weapons blazing. The slavers returned fire but it was hopeless for the raiders. The Guardians were masters of warfare, having spent years honing their arts against the most vicious foes.
The raiders had long since preyed on weak settlements and their people who could not fight back. They were no match against men and women reborn to wage war.
When the last Raider fell and the all clears sounded only then did Kevin meet up with the two remaining members of Emeici.
Xia Zhang had removed her helmet and hood as she looked over the slavers with a practiced eye. The Veteran Hunter looked to Kevin Holden who approached, still holding his sniper rifle.
"Good shot, Holden." She told the Warlock who nodded solemnly.
"I made sure to keep my fire focused on the brigands." Kevin said. He then gestured to the man he had just killed. "His sigil says he's operating with the Cruxes."
"Was." The last member of Emeici, Nils Tsardikos, was poking at one of the corpses. "You blew his slaving brains out." The Titan hefted his Pulse Rifle onto his shoulder. "Is Grendel moving the freed slaves back to the settlement?"
"Back to New Arnhem, yeah." Min answered. "But not before the two rapists get their dues."
As though ending her thought for her two gunshots rang out. Grendel had administered their justice.
"Well, that's that." Nils commented. "Anything else that needs doing Xia?"
"Not much, we're heading back with them."
Kevin looked back at the raider corpses. His eyes narrowed slightly before he followed Zhang.
/
Presently...
"Kev, we're back." John tapped his brother's shoulder. The Stormcaller blinked underneath his helmet before he felt the Bullhead touch down on the Beacon landing pad.
Just as Jackknife was going to head out the pilot gave a surprised sounding gasp and then turned back to them. "Sorry to break it to you guys but we've just been ordered to head towards the City." He announced. "I'll try-"
The sound of fighters and an airship from the Atlesian Military taking formation startled the pilot for a few seconds before John told the man to get a grip on himself and do his job. Kevin immediately settled back into his seat as he tightened the grip on the First Curse. This was it, what they had been waiting for. A fight.
He saw Hestia check her ammo. John did the same. All three Guardians nodded at each other as the Bullhead ascended. Kevin saw others going in the same direction, following the Atlesian fleet as it prepared to engage hostiles.
Sparky hacked into the communications network and what he heard wasn't good. He relayed it to the others of Fireteam Jackknife. Screams, the sound of automatic fire. The sound of humans being engaged in battle by myriad creatures of Darkness.
A battlefield. This was where they belonged. This was a Guardian's purpose.
/
Ruby looked up to see Bullheads, even as she cut another Grimm in half with Crescent Rose.
"Look! It's Port and CFVY!" Yang pointed. Sure enough Professor Port and team CFVY dropped into the battle weapons blazing.
"It's not just them." Blake panted as a Bullhead soared over head but it was empty. Ruby turned to see an Ursa Major get utterly crushed beneath Hestia's boots as the Titan smashed her fists repeatedly into its head until it died. The second Ursa was shot in the face multiple times by John's automatic weapon, even as he landed gracefully on his feet behind its smoldering corpse.
Kevin did the same, carrying a revolver. As he landed he let off two shots that punched into a Beowolf's head, shattering its skull mask. The two other transfer students immediately formed up on John who directed their fire with hand signals before he began firing his weapon into the creatures of Grimm.
It was an awe inspiring sight. Ruby couldn't take her eyes off of the three of them. They moved as one, fought as one and killed as one. Their teamwork was near telepathic.
"Holy crap." Yang blurted out. "They're just...mowing them down!"
"They won't last long alone!" Weiss snapped. "Ruby! Give us orders!"
Ruby snapped out of her reverie. "Right!" Ruby brandished her scythe. "Come on, let's get down there!"
/
His shotgun boomed as it put down a bipedal Grimm with no arms. It squealed pitifully before the Conspiracy Theory silenced the dying Grimm. Kevin pumped the slide as he ducked a claw swipe meant for his head. He fired back at the Beowolf, essentially eviscerating it with a well aimed shot.
He kept moving and killing, a cold fury that kept him focused. Kevin crouched, loading shotgun shells as he felt John move up to cover him. The Sunsinger put a controlled burst into another Grimm watching it dance to the impact of high caliber rounds.
Over the squad frequency, Kevin could hear him laughing. It was something he didn't really understand, but his brother did his own thing. John was different whenever his blood was up.
"How many more do we have to deal with?" Hestia whispered. Kevin took a glance. Much like them, her armor was battered and scuffed. The Defender's Mark on her waist fluttered in the breeze.
"Doesn't matter," John said loading a fresh magazine into his rifle, a Red Spectre Prototype. "We'll sort these things out."
"Damn." Kevin muttered as he switched to the First Curse, loading a full cylinder of ammo into the weapon. "What I'd give for some peace and quiet for a change. I still have to beat the next boss in Dungeon Crawler."
John chuckled.
"I bet five hundred Glimmer you spend another three hours doing it." Hestia commented.
"Shut up."
Sparky chose that time to speak.
"Guys, we've got problems. There's a group of policemen trapped alongside some civvies. It's a few klicks east of here."
"Fuck." Kevin muttered. "Should we-"
Sure enough Ruby ran up to all three of them. "Kevin?! We need your help!" She called. "We've got people trapped inside a building, there's too much Grimm to handle. Professor Goodwitch wanted us to help out."
"Kevin, Hestia and I will assist the Professor in dealing with the Grimm here." John said. "You go with RWBY." He chambered a round. "Go, we're going to be fine."
"I understand. Good luck." Kevin touched his brother's shoulder briefly before he followed Ruby and her team to their destination.
As they ran down the street, passing fleeing civilians being escorted by VPD SWAT teams Ruby asked Kevin. "Are you worried?"
"Nah," Kevin answered. "He's my brother. He's got a handle on the situation."
/
"Hah!" John sliced a Grimm in half with Raze Lighter. He was grinning under his helmet as more Beowolves, a Boarbatusk and a lone Ursa charged him.
"Who's next on the chopping block!?"
/
"That man is insane." Weiss commented as she looked back at John holding the line with Hestia.
"He can take care of himself." Kevin answered without breaking stride. "Shit." He raised his fist as he approached the corner. Once there he peeked out. He saw a multitude of Grimm. A pair of Deathstalkers were being shot at by police officers inside a drug store. The place was barricaded but considering that Deathstalkers were trying to get in at the tasty humans inside it wasn't going to last long.
"What is it?" Ruby asked.
"Deathstalkers. Two of them." Kevin exhaled as he readied his revolver. "They're not that big though. Maybe around the size of three vans instead of two."
"How are we going to deal with them then?" Blake asked.
"Over the top." Ruby said. "Yang you're with me. Blake, I need you, Kevin and Weiss to get their attention and keep it. Sneak in close and then go all out."
"Yes." Blake said as she readied Gambol Shroud.
"Sure." Kevin shrugged as he checked the ammunition cylinder in The First Curse.
Ruby grinned as she and Yang began their ascent to the roof. In the meantime, Blake's impromptu team snuck up to the Deathstalkers, using the overturned cars and rubble as cover.
/
The ambush began when a single Ice glyph from Weiss crackled and kept the first Deathstalker in place. Kevin shot the stinger off with well aimed shots from The First Curse. While the Last Word had the speed, The First Curse had the power. Kevin reloaded, taking some satisfaction from the Deathstalker's cries of pain.
The second Deathstalker's stinger flew off as Blake's Gambol Shroud slashed through it with ease. Once both of the Grimm were stunned, Ruby and Yang leaped onto the creatures' backs, doing as much damage as they could with their weapons. Ruby slashing the legs off while Yang tore into the carapace of her targets with powerful blows with her gauntleted fists.
Kevin kept an eye out and was suddenly surprised when the first Deathstalker, the one not pinned by ice, threw Ruby off to the side in a sudden movement. He was the closest one. Shit.
"Ruby!" Yang screamed. Kevin ran for Ruby just as the Deathstalker raised its claws for a sweeping slash.
Ruby covered her head waiting for the claw to cut her down, just as Kevin reached her...
/
KEVIN!
Sparky sent out a distress signal as he saw Kevin's shields go down from the swipe.
/
Ruby opened one eye. She then paled considerably as she saw Kevin standing in front of her. There was a massive puddle of blood around his feet.
"No..." She whimpered as she heard Kevin cough raggedly. "No...No...No..."
Kevin turned his head slightly towards her...before the Deathstalker smashed him aside with its claw. His body flew brokenly through the air before hitting the cement with a sudden crunch. The battlefield was silent.
"Kevin?" Blake whispered looking at where he had landed. She was in shock as she suddenly crumpled to her knees. Weiss was in the same condition, her eyes wide and unable to look away from the unmoving form of a friend.
Yang screamed in rage and grief as she leaped at the first Deathstalker, having already taken care of her victim. Her next one gave a hiss as it turned to face the new threat.
/
John pulled out the Raze Lighter out of the Grimm's corpse. He felt that something was...wrong.
"Guardian down." Jingles reported quietly. "John, Hestia. Kevin's down." That made John pause.
"Shit!" Martellus snarled. "What the hell were those girls doing!?"
"Focus!" John snapped as he brought his sword up. "Hestia, can you hold here?"
Hestia put another Grimm down. "Yes." She said, her voice cold and furious. "Go get your brother."
John gave her a salute before rushing towards RWBY's position. The Sunsinger wasn't happy. Kevin was going to be fine, assuming that Sparky was with him. Kevin was going to be pissed when he got revived.
The Sunsinger turned the corner to where the drug store was, holding his sword. He saw two dead Deathstalkers. One still intact, the other was a smashed in carcass that was smoldering. John then turned away from that to his objective.
Weiss was holding a sobbing Ruby in her arms. The heiress had tears in her own eyes but she couldn't tear them away from the fallen. Yang was holding Kevin's head in her lap, desperately pleading the Warlock to wake up. Blake was holding one of his hands, the way her shoulders trembled told John that she was close to breaking.
John sighed. "Sparky." He said over the private link.
"He's barely alive, John." Sparky replied. The Ghost's voice was quiet. "I'm keeping him alive, but he needs medical attention."
John sent his assent as he walked over. Yang looked up at John who looked down at her.
"What happened?" He asked, calmly. Quietly.
"I...Ruby was in trouble." Yang whispered. "I should have...It should have been me."
John didn't say anything as he crouched over his brother's unmoving body. He was silent for a while before he said one thing.
"Call in a Bullhead."
"What?" Blake whispered.
"Call in a Bullhead." John said as he stood up. "Take him to Beacon, we might still have a chance. I can still sense his Aura." A technical lie. Kevin still had the Light in him. He'd be fine.
"He's still alive!?" Yang looked up at John in confusion, and hope.
"Now is not the time to screw around." John told her sternly as he readied his weapon. Coming at them was another group of Grimm. "We need this LZ clear."
As Blake called in the Bullhead, John calmly shouldered his rifle and fired.
/
A few days later...
Kevin's eyes opened.
He realized that he was not back at the Tower. Rather he was staring up at the roof of Beacon's medical wing.
"Ah...you're awake." Sparky said over the mental link. The Ghost floated over. "I was quite busy keeping you alive you know."
"I feel like I got hit by a tank." Kevin replied irritably. "I actually got killed?"
"Somewhat. That Deathstalker nearly cleaved you open. The Halliaetus II needed some repairs so I spent most of the time doing that." Sparky told him. "Jaune and Pyrrha visited you a day ago."
"...Ah," Kevin wanted to nod but everything hurt. He could barely move. "Wait. Why are we talking through the mental link."
"Because Yang is sleeping on your left arm. Blake is at your right." The Ghost sounded amused.
What.
Kevin tried to move his left hand but Yang pulled on his arm and sleep murmured. Blake had chosen to fall asleep in her chair. The Stormcaller's eyes drifted on both of them. Did they stay here the entire time? They didn't have to...
Yang woke up first and saw that Kevin was awake. "Kev?"
Kevin merely nodded. In a sudden motion the blonde had wrapped him up in the tightest hug she could muster. "You're okay..."
"Yes..." Kevin rasped. "But my neck isn't...Ow."
Yang quickly let go. "Sorry!" She exclaimed. She then chuckled. "Sorry, it was a close thing you know. Everyone thought you were dead."
"How is...everyone?" Kevin asked quietly.
"Ruby's feeling better. But she barely got any sleep ever since we brought you back." Yang answered. "Your bro is okay. So is Hestia. We all visited you whenever we could."
"I...see." Kevin whispered. "I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to scare any of you."
"You did." A voice said. Yang and Kevin turned to see Blake who was staring at the both of them. "You were reckless."
"Ruby would have been killed." Kevin told her quietly. "If I had to make that choice again, I would."
Blake looked down at her hands. "All right. I know." She said with a slow breath. "But try not to do that again. It...hurt deeply seeing you like that."
Kevin looked at his bandaged form but refrained from a snarky answer. Judging from the small trembling in Yang's hands they were still not over seeing him get hurt like this. He himself was a bit irritated that he had gone down in the field of battle.
He instead leaned back as Yang regaled him with what happened during their mission to Mount Glenn. Kevin let his thoughts drift for now...The painkillers were making him a bit loopy. But, right now with Yang bragging and Blake correcting her things were peaceful. That was always nice.
/
Out in the Vale Wilderness, in a ruined settlement near the eastern borders of the Kingdom of Vale...
The settlement of Trough was once inhabited by a population of around two hundred souls, both Faunus and Humans. It had been active until the Grimm gradually overran the town and slaughtered everyone.
Its ruins now stood as a testament to what expansion meant for the kingdom of Vale. For those who were arriving, it would serve as their first foray into a new world.
There was a sudden sequence of flashing lights. A Beowolf looked up and then howled at its brothers and sisters to leave. Many Grimm who were wandering the old streets also made their way out of the streets of the old settlement, sensing danger from the new arrivals.
The flashing lights dimmed.
The Guardian in charge of the Fireteam raised a hand and her two compatriots slowed to a crawl. The Hunter gestured for her teammates to spread out. The Titan gave a salute before hefting his machine gun in his hands. The other Warlock nodded and he moved up, his Scout Rifle shouldered.
"Command, this is Fireteam Emeici. We are moving out to recon and clear out any enemy hostiles. This place looks deserted."
"Solid copy, Emeici. Additional Fireteams are ready to be called in to support you in case you need it."
Xia Zhang smirked underneath her helmet. "Emeici copies, command. We'll sort out whatever's down here." She signed off.
"Nils! Ivan! Asses in gear, now!" She barked. "Anything that doesn't look human, I want it dead!"
"Our orders were recon, Xia." A soft voice sounded beside the Hunter's head. Her Ghost, Sasha, was softer spoken than her. It was a dynamic that no one questioned. Xia Zhang was among the most dangerous Hunters in the Vanguard's ranks. Easily irritated, Xia was known for her ruthlessness on the field of battle.
"Recon and extermination." Xia corrected Sasha. "If you or the other two see anything interesting, do tell us before we blast it to bits on accident."
"Of course, Xia. Anytime." Sasha spoke quietly.