WARNING!
If you are a reader who likes to feel "Omniscient", and likes to know everything about the story beforehand…prepare to be sorely disappointed. I reveal information as the story progresses, so patience will be necessary!
A/N: Thanks for everyone's support once again! Sorry about that update yesterday! I was just deleting my old 'Update' Chapter. I forgot it notifies the readers...so sorry! But I did that because I planned to release the new chapter today!
Here are some questions I will answer:
Q: What took you so long to update? It's passed your promised date.
A: My apologies guys, but while I do enjoy writing, I do have my priorities. I'm busy working right now, so my schedule is pretty full. It's a job that does require me to travel, so access to computer is limited. Please understand that I need to support myself and my family, and unfortunately, I don't get paid to write.
This is more of an enjoyable hobby for me, and though some people have asked me to make a account to support me, I will have to turn that down for now (unfortunately). If money was donated to me, I would feel obligated to write even when I have no time for it, as well as provide perks I am incapable of doing (e.g. earlier releases, chapters ahead of time, etc.). I don't really want that kind of pressure, since I won't be able to guarantee a quality chapter when I'm rushed. I prefer to write with freedom and w/o worry of time and quality constraints. (Plus, I'm not too clear on copyright laws and profiting from fanfiction. I say it's better to avoid the case altogether.)
Maybe when I gather my life a little better in the future, it will be something to consider…but I simply don't have the time or capability to open one, so please understand. Sorry!
Q: Why give Naruto 'All-Killing Dust Bones' for an ability?
A: I understand not many were happy with this decision, but I was. I wanted Naruto to have an ability that came from his body, like how a Nevermore shoots feathers. And yes, I changed the name from 'All-Killing Ash bones' to 'All-Killing Dust bones'. It seemed more fitting for the story.
Q: Is Naruto now OP?
A: He is powerful, but not OP. There is always a price for power, and I'm not making this an unrealistic fantasy where he can dish out a one-shot kill technique as easy as breathing. There will be struggles and training necessary, which you will see in the coming chapters, and new Arc. Struggles tend to make stories more interesting…for some people.
Will he be OP by the end of the story? Perhaps.
Q: Why Gordy?!
A: Death is a part of growth, so Gordy became that unfortunate sacrifice for Naruto to improve. Let me give a fair warning though. He was the first, but that doesn't mean he will be the last…
Q: Is there a connection between the Grimm in your story and 'Hollows' from Bleach?
A: Yes. What that connection is, however, will remain a mystery. I won't be using the same terminology used in bleach, but I do share similar concepts and ideas
Q: How will Naruto and the Grimm evolve?
A: Read this chapter, and maybe you'll get a few hints.
Q: Will Naruto settle down and hold territory?
A: He's already claimed his interest in 'Forever Falls', so yes. He will hold territory, but he won't always stay there. Naruto (in this story) is more keen on traveling. While he does have a 'home-base', he will still venture out.
Q: These cliffhangers…why're you so evil?
A: Every author has a 'dark side' to their personality. Cliffhangers and character deaths just happen to be one of the easiest ways to express this.
That's all for questions!
Another short chapter, but it is a sign for some important things to come.
I hope you guys look forward to it!
Also, I may go back to add more into this chapter in the future
"In Oum I Trust"- Normal Speech
In Oum I Trust-- Normal thought
"In Oum I Trust"- Shared thought/phone/telepathy(link)
*Sigh*- Action
In Oum I Trust- Unique Technique/Semblance
"In Oum I Trust"- Authoritative/powerful/angered speech
In Oum I Trust- Authoritative/powerful/angered Thought
"In Oum I Trust"- Authoritative/powerful/angry Shared thought/phone/telepathy(link)
Disclaimer: I do not own the Naruto, RWBY, BLEACH, the Re: Monster Franchise or any of its characters. I am but a simple man, with a simple desire to write a fanfiction that has been plaguing my mind.
The only thing I own in this story are my theories, original characters, and scenarios that did not exist in the original stories.
Chapter 7: The End of the Beginning
-82 years before Canon-
"Oi, you're just wasting your time. I was nice enough to let you go, but ya had to be stupid, huh?"
Echo watched as his partner, Wretch, continued to shake the small fox in his hands around as he kicked around the boar that tried to stop him.
"Do all you Grimm think I'm some kinda pushover? Just fuck off already!"
He watched how he tried to ignore the Boarbatusk's rescue efforts, but ultimately grew annoyed in the end…as was usual for the muscle-brained man.
"Ya know…you're really starting to piss me off."
He watched how he insulted the Grimm's efforts to stop him, and stomped the Boarbatusk into the ground, kicking the dirt and dust from the ground beneath it from the sheer force of impact.
He watched how his partner hoisted his signature weapon into the air as he taunted the fox in his hands; tormenting him with words that spelled doom for his Grimm companion.
He watched as the battle axe descended onto the neck of the boar, ultimately ending the life of the unfortunate creature.
And then…he watched as the scene before him begin to change.
An air of malevolence began to surround the fox in Wretch's hands.
It was dark.
Powerful.
Overbearing.
A nightmare to behold as he felt his saliva get caught in his throat, trying the form the proper words to describe the scene.
The heavy atmosphere suppressed any act of motion he might've considered, as he remained rooted to the ground, staring at his partner who didn't seem to pick up on the change. He simply cackled histerically, enjoying the expressions that marred the Grimms' faces.
*SQUEEEEEL!*
The sudden screech turned his attention to the Grimm in the back, who had been watching the fight happen.
The other Boarbatusk looked to be in agony as it thrashed on the ground with agitated fervor. It looked like it wanted to charge the axe-bearing huntsmen, but was limited due to the injuries it suffered beforehand. Madness was evident in its eyes and the body trembled in raw anger.
*GRAWOOO!*
It was not alone in its suffering, as the Goliath whipped its trunk around in rage and stomped in fury with the only good legs it had. It glared at Wretch with untold hate like never before. It was a hate not regarded towards his race as a human being, but more focused. It was directed only at him, and it didn't take an idiot to figure out the reason why this was the case.
This was when things changed from strange, to total absurdity!
The malevolent air that surrounded the fox began to flow in the direction of the Goliath and Boarbatusk, freezing their actions momentarily before they began to erupt into fits and screeches Louder than they had done before.
In an act that defies huntsmen/huntress common sense, the Grimm then began to change.
As it squealed, the Boarbatusk's body began to bubble in a grotesque manner, as if there were dozens of scarabs shifting beneath its skin.
As this continued, bones could be heard breaking as the Boarbatusk began to bulge and expand, until it was double the size it was previously. Its legs became thicker with a bone that coiled around it from the hoof to its knee joint like a corkscrew. Its shoulders were broad and the tusks gained a red tint to the point like Ganesha's.
Perhaps the most noticeable change in the Boarbatusk was the red-orange mane of hair that surrounded the boar's neck, and a crown of bone was above its head.
The Goliath's change wasn't as significant, but still remained ominous.
It, too, had a crown of bone on its head and grew half a size larger than before, making the one large figure even more overwhelming. It's mere presence creamed superiority and suppression of the highest order.
But the common change Echo seemed to notice were what he saw in Grimm's eyes.
They have pupils like that fox Grimm!
He then turned to the direction of the Fox that still remained in Wretch's hands with newfound horror and thought, This has to be that Grimm's doing! I've never heard of another Grimm that could evolve others!
"Wretch!" Echo called out in panic, "We have to go! NOW! That Grimm is dangerous!"
As he called out, he noticed that his partner remained frozen, and-
Is that…blood?
Echo noticed a copious amount of thick, red liquid, dribbling from the mouth of his partner who remained stagnant for a while now. He also saw what appeared to be two bones piercing through his body, glowing ominously black.
He then watched in stunned horror as Wretch's body and clothing turned black, and soon began to dissipate into smaller particles of dust, similar to the way Grimm fade away as they were killed.
What the-
Any further thought of his was broken when he saw the fox turn to give him a glare that spoke volumes of his state of mind. It was scathing with every passing second as the bones that once protruded from the Grimm's tail slowly receded back into place. His every move was being observed as the Grimm turned to his direction fully in a crouching position that spoke volumes of its intentions without words being necessary: it intended to kill.
Before the Grimm could make a move, Echo turned away from Naruto and sprinted in the opposite direction.
His spine was dripping in cold sweat, and his breath was ragged from fear and how heavy the presence that Grimm possessed just now when it looked into his eyes.
But what made him truly fearful was something else.
Something more shocking and mind bending than he could ever imagine.
It was something that could turn the way human and Faunus think completely upside down, tearing down the walls of whatever common sense they once held.
He had plenty of time to observe the changes and mentality of the Grimm as they fought his partner and when they evolved.
At first, he was confused about the malevolent air that surrounded the fox and coiled around its surrounding Grimm. This was a presence that was never felt by Grimm before.
Not by him or anyone he knew in history, at least.
But after being exposed to it for so long and having it suppress him, he was finally able to understand the uneasy feeling that had been creeping up on him.
Despite how dark and overbearing the feeling was, he was all too familiar with this energy signature.
That's because what he felt was…
Aura…that Grimm…can use Aura!
I've marked his scent…he's not going to be getting away.
Naruto was staring at the escaping figure of the huntsmen as he moved through the forest.
To him, it was like he was moving in slow motion. For some reason, Naruto was starting to feel stronger, faster, and his senses seem to have heightened threefold from what it was before.
He turned in the direction of his fellow Grimm and noted the large changes in their figure.
They seemed to have evolved…but how?
After that brief thought and the slight widening of his eyes, and shook his head as he stared in the direction of where the huntsmen had gone.
He was, of course, shocked by the evolution of his fellow Grimm…but right now, that feeling of shock and curiosity was being overwhelmed by unrestrained anger and hate.
His thoughts paused momentarily as he sensed malicious intent emanating from his herd. They looked ready to hunt the other huntsmen, despite the injuries they carried.
Seeing their determination brought a slight warm feeling in his heart, but he had to admonish this behavior.
"You guys need to stay behind. You're too injured to fight again."
"I understand Alpha..."
Naruto nodded, and was about to turn away, until he heard Ganesha continue.
"I understand, Alpha…but, I don't want to understand. I... want to hunt him."
An unseen brow rose from Naruto as he continued to take in this information while Ganesha continued.
"I want to hunt him. Torture him. Maim him. Eat him. Many things."
Ganesha shook his head in confusion, unfamiliar with this whirl of emotions he was unused to. It frightened him because it dictated his thoughts and actions in a way he hadn't experienced before.
"I don't want to just kill him…I want him to suffer…Naruto."
He lifted his head to look Naruto in his eyes, finally showing Naruto the pupils he now possessed, which startled the fox Grimm.
He wasn't startled because of Ganesha's pupils, nor was it because it was the first time he was referred to as Naruto by him. While they were indeed shocking situations, what startled him more were how his eyes now expressed deep confusion, pain, anger, and anguish.
Emotions, something Grimm were normally incapable of, now flooded the mind and heart of the Goliath before him.
And Naruto could tell that the discovery of emotions was making him unstable.
It wasn't just Ganesha who seemed to be suffering.
From the edge of his view, Naruto could see Pumbaa wailing with screams of sorrow as he limped to the direction of Gordy's demise. It tore Naruto apart to see Pumbaa continue to move with shattered legs, just to be where he lost his brother.
"I don't understand this feeling, Naruto. It hurts, and I want him to hurt...to feel my pain."
There was a momentary silence between the two before Naruto spoke, "Ganesha…I understand how you're feeling, because I feel the same way. What you're feeling are emotions, and it will be especially rough since this is the first time you are feeling them at such an…intense level."
Naruto saw the Ganesha listened to his words with undeterred attention, hoping to gleam some understanding behind the pain he was feeling.
"I don't have much time now, Ganesha…but I promise to explain this more to you later."
Naruto then moved forward and pat him softly with one of his tails and said, "Trust me when I say that you will learn to understand these emotions with time. This is another stage in your evolution as a Grimm, so don't be afraid of it. Accept these new feelings, and grow with them. Overcome them. Because even if it hurts now, you will see that it is because of these emotions that you can become stronger than ever before."
Ganesha didn't fully understand all of Naruto's words, but he felt a faint warmth in the depths of his being.
It was…soothing to him. It relaxed and reassured him that he was in no danger due to these new feelings.
This warmth made him feel that he made the right decision in following Naruto. He had a feeling based on instinct, that Naruto would make a difference in the world of Grimm…and now he could see how.
Ganesha nodded his head, "I understand…my Alpha."
Naruto was ticked that Ganesha reverted back to calling him 'Alpha', but this thought froze when Naruto saw a faint smile on the Goliath's face.
No longer disturbed by his herd's depression, Naruto turned to the forest once more and spoke, "I'll be leaving, Ganesha. Watch over Pumbaa just in case."
With narrowed eyes and burning resolve in his eyes, Naruto growled, "I still have a huntsman to kill."
*Pant!* *Pant!*
"Hah! Hah!"
Echo had been running for some time now, and he was beginning to feel exhaustion take over. He wasn't a stamina freak like his partner Wretch was, and he had been keeping his semblance active in case he was being pursued.
*Pant!* *Pant!*
That Grimm…how is it able to use aura?!
Stopping for a moment to catch his breath, Echo couldn't help but complain in his heart about the current situation.
As an experienced hunter, he had encountered all sorts of Grimm, and was very capable of battling the bane of humanity.
But he had never heard of a Grimm having the abilities a human or faunas has!
This shouldn't be possible! Aura is the manifestation of one's soul. It's known that Grimm don't have souls…so how?!
Echo knew exactly what this scenario meant, but he didn't want to believe it. This was a matter much bigger than the ongoing war. If a Grimm was capable of using aura, then that meant-
That Grimm has a soul…that explains why it was so intelligent and emotive when fighting.
Once Echo accepted this logic – as absurd as it was – things started to make sense. That oppressing, all-encompassing feeling, its battle strategy, its emotional responses.
All this alluded to the Grimm possessing a soul, and explained why it was so skilled.
The problem in question now became "how"?
This Grimm may be the first in history to possess aura. If this were true anywhere else, would it have been kept a secret for so long? It was either that, or the Grimm who possessed aura were very capable at hiding from society.
And if it wasn't terrifying enough that a Grimm could possess a soul, what became more frightening were the supplemental and influential effects this Grimm had on its herd.
The aura of that fox seemed to feed the Boarbatusk and Goliath that were nearby. Does this mean that this Grimm can influence other Grimm in evolution? If that were true, then-
But before he could finish this thought, Echo felt a response flare in the distance thanks to his semblance.
He's closing in on me…if he was able to make up the distance between us and pinpoint my position, I doubt I can leave quietly…
Recognizing the situation he was now in, sighed with shadowed eyes, Shit…I'm really going to have to fight that monster? Today is NOT my day…
There…
Thought Naruto, catching the scent of a familiar, runaway huntsman. After making this discovery, and noticing how the scent hadn't moved further away from him, Naruto stopped to take a short break.
There were a couple of things Naruto had noticed as he began his hunt for the huntsman that he realized were abnormal for Grimm.
For one, he felt unusually more powerful than before. He had noticed this earlier, but he didn't think about it much due to other overwhelming emotions at that time.
But as he chased down the man, he had time to collect his thoughts and reflect on the changes he had felt earlier.
He was already aware about how his strength, speed, and senses had heightened greater than before, but that wasn't what confused him.
In fact, Naruto was well aware that Grimm were capable of growing stronger from his experience with his herd.
The problem, however, lied in how this was done.
In order for Grimm to become stronger physically, they needed to go through a process of evolution. Naruto still had yet to understand how evolution for Grimm worked, but he knew that the most common evolution seen in Grimm was their ascension from a normal class Grimm, into an Alpha.
In this transformation, they grow not just in size, but intellect and ability. This much he clearly understood after seeing Pumbaa's and Goliath's changes before he left them behind.
Pumbaa doubled in size, ferocity, and his appearance was more menacing. Goliath didn't possess too significant of a change (compared to Pumbaa) since he had already achieved his Alpha evolution, other than his size and eyes, but this showed that Grimm were capable of ascending beyond their commonly known 'Alpha' form.
But what Naruto noticed was that despite becoming more powerful, he hadn't evolved; he looks exactly the same as he did before. He didn't grow larger or gained additional features like when he first ate a human, but he could feel a new source of power flowing through his body.
After thinking about this mysterious energy for a moment, Naruto felt a familiar wave of knowledge course through his mind, momentarily stopping his movement and dulling his eyes.
Every time Naruto encountered something worth pondering or gained some insight into a subject, it would trigger something in his mind. Once triggered, Naruto would be flooded with information Monty left for him, clarifying whatever it was he was thinking about.
After Naruto assorted and reviewed the knowledge he gained, a light smirk sprouted onto his face as he continued in the direction of the hunstman.
So it was Aura that I felt. That certainly explains some things.
It was commonly known by society that it was impossible for Grimm to possess an aura.
So then, why was Naruto able to?
The answer became pretty simple once you thought about it.
Aura is defined as 'the manifestation of one's soul', and allows a human/faunus to possess a wide range of passive or active abilities.
Grimm are beings that do not possess a soul, hence it is impossible for them to wield aura…but this was not the case for Naruto Uzumaki.
He was a soul taken from Limbo, and directly incarnated into the empty husk of a fox Grimm. Having a soul from the start, Naruto was naturally capable of having the abilities any huntsman or huntress could have.
Naruto, however, never possessed this knowledge before because he never observed aura closely.
Through this experience, Naruto was able to understand how things worked, and what direction he should take if he wished to grow stronger and become more knowledgeable.
He would only learn of something if he encountered it closely, or he deeply thought about it.
He would only gain strength through blood, sweat, and tears.
It seems with insight I gain understanding, and with hardship, I gain power…the laws of this world are pretty cruel, huh Monty?
Naruto paused his thoughts once he approached a small clearing in the forest, and approached a nearby bush to hide as he peered through his surroundings.
It took only a short moment before he recognized the male figure who was resting against a tree, causing Naruto to grit his teeth with barely retained anger.
I found you…
Naruto didn't attack outright, however. He was aware that this huntsman was different from the last. He seemed more intelligent and wary of his surroundings, and he also had front row seats to Naruto's last fight. With that in mind, it should be assumed this man has some understanding of the way Naruto fights, putting him at a bit of an advantage.
Taking this into account, Naruto observed his surroundings more closely, so he could have a better grasp of how to use the environment to his best ability.
He ruffled through the bushes silently, and creeped closer by hiding behind various objects of forestry. He kept an eye on the huntsman, but noticing that he had yet to react, and actually closed had his eyes closed, it seemed to him he was resting due to exhaustion.
Seeing this, Naruto crept closer until he was only short distance away from him before pausing to prepare his charge.
After a few moments, Naruto finally pounced towards the hunstmen who was full of openings, aiming to kill in one swoop.
Die!
As Naruto prepared to cleave his claws into the man's throat, he suddenly found his claw buried into the trunk of the tree the man had been resting against, with said huntsmen dozens of feet away from his original position.
Echo glared in the direction of the fox, and pulled out the daggers he concealed within his cloak. It took only an instant for his weapon to shift into the form of a gun as he proceeded to fire a barrage of dust-infused bullets in the direction of Naruto.
With his quick reflexes, Naruto managed to escape the unexpected counter by quickly retracting his claws and launching himself away from the tree. Despite his nimble nature, however, he didn't get away unscathed as he found several bullets fixed into his body.
"*Tch*…shoulda know you'd escape…thought I'd be able to do a bit more damage than that though…"
Naruto sent the man a menacing look as he revaluated the huntsmen before him, while reproaching himself in the process.
Shit…I know he's smarter than his partner, yet I still underestimated him…but how did he know I was coming?
Naruto didn't have much experience fighting against huntsmen, so his game was a bit rusty. He was too used to fighting the creatures of Grimm who lacked quality planning and sophisticated stratagems, which added to this failure of his.
But that wasn't all.
I'm letting my emotions control me, and I'm not thinking properly…I can't believe I made such a rookie mistake.
He knew that while the emotional high he was on gave him great strength and awakened his aura, it also provided him a significant detriment.
While it was true his senses and instinct were heightened to phenomenal levels, all that became naught when a well placed strategy is in motion.
Naruto was too new to this recent power up, and he had yet to understand the ins-and-outs of it. While the strengths became obvious, the weaknesses required more time and deliberation to solve; without proper understanding of one's detriments, it could prove fatal to one's life
With a long breath, Naruto slowly began to contain his hatred further, resulting in the black aura that once cloaked him to recede to nothingness.
Echo, in the meantime, merely observed the unmoving Grimm as it stood a distance away from him.
He understood that one mistake could lead to his death, so he chose not to capitalize his attack on the unmoving fox. He took the time to observe and recover instead, seeing as he didn't know how long the coming fight may last.
I can't feel that ominous aura coming from him any more…But I can't be complacent either…
Realizing this, he didn't feel as afraid as he once did, but he knew that aura had something to do with his partner disintegrating into particles of dust.
He studied the fox a bit longer before the fox Grimm finally opened its sunset shade eyes.
A stare down was formed between the two as they were locked into place…before Naruto jumped back into the forestry, and agilely moved among the trees and bushes in silence.
Echo did nothing but remain still in plain sight as he closed his eyes once more in an inviting, provocative posture.
Naruto narrowed his eyes at the huntsmen, curious about the man's actions…but after lying in wait for a few minutes, the man had still done nothing.
What is he up to…?
Naruto couldn't quite understand the man's actions, and found the openings the man had to suspicious...but he had grown tired of waiting.
Alright, I'll bite…what is it you're going for?
With his mind made up, Naruto pounced once again, but with a warier air about him. His claws extended once again, and just like last time, the man dodged by a narrow margin and counter attacked with his dagger-guns.
Since Naruto was more prepared this time around, and maneuvered around him safely, a close-combat clash then ensued as they continued to fight for dominance.
Naruto found it strange how the man never seemed to struggle when dodging his attacked. It seemed so natural, as if he was able to see it coming from a mile away.
His counters came so quickly, that Naruto had actually been cut on more than occasion and literally 'bit the bullet' several times as he was shot at. Although the damage did seem trivial, the result was still the same: that is, he was the one who was coming out on the short end!
Realizing this, Naruto retreated once more into the forestry to understand the situation once again, while the man once again adopted his nonchalant posture and closed his eyes, though it was clear that he was beginning to run low on steam.
How the hell is he hitting me? I'm clearly faster, so how is he still managing to follow my every move?
Naruto paused to recollect his thoughts and make assumptions based on what he had seen so far. He thought back to when Wretch was about to explain his partner's ability. It somehow allowed him to relay a message in a way Naruto couldn't hear or see.
And since a few moments before, he had been able to dodge every one of his attacks. Thinking back, this was evident even when Naruto first launched his initial charge when he first saw him.
He is definitely using his semblance…but what is it? He can somehow relay messages and read my movements…seriously, what kind of ability is this!
Naruto was beginning to get more and more frustrated as he continued to think about the countless possibilities that all seemed to point in the wrong direction.
Can he see the future? No, that that wouldn't explain his message ability. Does it have something to do with space control…? No…that doesn't make any sense. That kind of ability is extremely powerful, so why would he run away so desperately? I would be the one running!
No matter what he came up with, it always resulted in a dead end, until…
Seriously, this Echo guy is really-
…He reached a ridiculous conclusion. One that was glaringly obvious if he hadn't put so much thought into it. He almost didn't want to believe it was so simple.
Well, there is only one way to find out…
Naruto then proceeded to suck in a huge breath, expanding his lungs to its utmost limits, before-
*YIIIIIP!*
-he released an excruciatingly high-pitched screech.
Almost instantly, the huntsmen's eyes widened as he hunched over to cover his ears that began to trickle blood slightly as he released a grunt in pain.
Seeing his opportunity, Naruto lunged towards him once more with his claws elongated and prepared to strike him with intent to kill.
At the last second the huntsman managed to see the coming attack, but his response was far weaker and slower, as he only managed parry the claw slightly where it stabbed deep into his shoulder, rather than the heart it was aiming for.
His Aura had already grown weak at this point from using his semblance for too long, and this last attack had completely drained him dry.
Naruto pulled his paw away as he shook his head in annoyance, understanding his theory was correct.
He could relay messages without me hearing…he could read my movements before I made them…hell, his name was fuckin' 'Echo'!
Putting the pieces of the puzzle together, it wasn't hard for him to understand that the ability was sound based. He must have been able to somehow isolate sound so only Wretch could hear, and echolocation could explain how he could understand Naruto's positioning with even his eyes closed.
Naruto knew he must've been skilled if he was even able to gather the position his attacks were heading just based on the sounds he made in such close combat…but in the end, it was for naught.
This was something Echo had known from the beginning, but he refused to go down without a fight. His semblance was always a supplementary one, and wasn't too useful offensively. It was more passive, defensive, and effective for espionage, not particularly meant for combat.
Echo had been crouched down for a while now, covering his bleeding shoulder, sighing about his current circumstance.
Hah~…this wouldn't have happened if it weren't for Wretch…
It was no use crying over spilt milk now. What's done is done, and he was now paying the price for it.
He looked up from his position and found himself staring into the menacing eyes of the small Grimm before him. He could have never imagining his end would come from such a pitifully small creature.
Seeing the blank stare of the fox, Echo released a wry smile and said, "Well…I'm all yours, you monstrous little shit…Eat me, maim me…*sigh*…do whatever."
Naruto continued to stare vacantly at the huntsman, as he recalled all the times he had spent with Gordy during his ventures.
From their unusual, gang-like first meeting, to the everyday spars they had.
He would laugh at the Boarbatusk brother's random antics and their random fights with Karasuba.
He recalled the moments they finally learned to speak, thanks to Goliath, and how he was the first thing they spoke about. It filled him with emotions of familial pride and happiness at their growth.
Black tears once more adorned his mask, falling unceasingly to the earth as he now came to the realization that he would now longer be able to experience those times with his fellow Grimm.
Soon, his sadness was overcome with determination as he stared dangerously at one of the men responsible for the loss of his friend.
I will not allow those precious to me be lost again…
A dark glint appeared in his eye as his body began to produce the dark aura once more…only this time, another change was occurring.
Echo watched in ghastly horror as the small kit before him began to grow into the size of a full grown fox. The bone plating became more menacing with red tribal marks glowing over them.
And behind the Fox grew another tail to match the duo he had previously.
Naruto was currently unaware of these changes as his determination and resolve began to solidify after his loss.
I will protect those dear to me…
He then rose all three tails behind him as bones began to protrude from them once more with the ominous glow return in full effect once again.
…Even if I have to Kill!
Echo closed his eyes from the monster before him, no longer wishing to stare at the demon. He did not want to disgrace himself by pissing his pants in fear before his death.
But what happened next shocked him down to his core.
"YOu…BroUGht tHIs…uPoN…YoURsElf…!"
*Shunk* *Shunk* *Shunk*
As the three bones stabbed into his body, Echo's eyes opened once more in terror…because of what he had just heard.
He only uttered two final words as he began to dissipate into a cloud of dust, never to be seen or heard of again.
"You…Spoke!"
Naruto watched as the man disintegrated into nothing for a long moment, before finally-
"RAHHHHHHHHH!"
-he roared in rage, sorrow, and several other emotions before he finally collapsed due to the physical, mental, and emotional stress he experienced in only several hours.
This day marked the end of Naruto's semi-peaceful days in his long life as a Grimm.
…And so began a new era of growth and turmoil for all Grimm kind.
"RAHHHHHHHHH!"
This roar of anguish resounded through Forever Falls, sending all nearby Grimm and animals to cower in fear…all except for one existence.
The silhouette was that of a man, hiding on the branch of a distant tree.
This figure had been sent to track down the spy who had managed to make his way into Vale…and eliminate him by any means necessary.
It took some time to find him, and when he did, and came upon him and his partner fighting with an unusual horde of Grimm.
And if that wasn't enough to peak his curiosity, it was the Fox Grimm who did.
He had watched all the fights unfold from beginning to end, and he couldn't help but become astonished at the many revelations that had occurred in a single day.
Though the fox was highly dangerous…the figure saw something more than a monster.
He saw…potential.
He finally decided to leave the fox where it laid once he began to hear the presence of its herd approaching closer.
The figure dashed away at illusory speeds with a smile tugging away on his face as he thought, "It looks like things are shaping up to be an…interesting future."
End of Arc 1:
The Grimm Beginning
Begin Arc 2:
Grimm*****
Look forward to future chapters! I bleeped out some of the name of Arc 2 because it may give some details away.
I am still alive and continuing the story! Work is just crazy, and I'm still traveling, so I can't promise any dates and things like that.
Buuuuut…I will give you an epilogue as thanks for you guys being patient with me.
Here it comes!
Epilogue: A Shift in things to come
Kingdom of Vale
*Sigh*
The lone, shadowy figure of a man could be found in a messy, dim room, lit only by the setting sun. It was littered with papers, plans and stratagems that were displayed chaotically on a large round table. The walls were decorated with portraits and weapons that exuded a royal class, defining that despite the lack of tidiness in the room, it was one that held great significance.
His demeanor was solemn as he overlooked the surrounding city through the large window that encompassed almost the entire wall for itself. His stature was fitting of a seasoned warrior, yet his posture presented him as a wise ruler. There was an elegant, yet dominating air about him that made many believe he was an unapproachable, invincible hero.
The man couldn't help but release a tired breath he had been holding in since the war meeting he had with his advisors.
They had all been going mad since they found out someone was planted in their base long enough to discover vital plans that could possibly end the war.
It took some time and careful words to finally appease their worries, but they still looked restless as they left the council room.
The heroic figure had full confidence in the man he sent to hunt down the foreign spy, but that didn't mean he wouldn't worry. There were many factors to consider, and there was always the possibility of bad things to come.
"Oh? You seem a little down, your highness. What could possibly be troubling you so?"
As the man stood before the window, a dark silhouette appeared in the room silently, and spoke with a calm that did not suit the atmosphere of war.
The hero merely smiled in response, with his shoulder now more relaxed than it was before.
It seems he worried for nothing.
"I believe I should be fine now…that is, if you came back with good news?"
The Man still had not looked at the new arrival and continued to stare at the city before him with feelings of love, and the desire to protect. It was the attitude befitting of any ruler, yet his stood above the rest in both sincerity, and determination.
"Hmmm…I believe you're well aware of my skill level. Actually, I feel that it was too much to send me out there. Sending a few of your high-ranking soldiers would have been enough."
"That may be true," the man replied with a shake of his head, "but it wasn't a situation where I could afford any risks. I was positive you would be able to handle it quickly…and you didn't disappoint."
The silhouette released a faint smile as he walked around the room in a leisurely manner. As he moved to the lighter parts of the room, some of his appearance could be made out.
His figure was slender in comparison to his leader, and rather than wearing a typical set of combat clothing, he was dressed in a black suit.
"Yes, well, it wasn't all sunshine and rainbows my friend. There's quite a bit I have to share with- is that coffee?"
The man spoke with an affable tone before he spotted his favored beverage on a table to the side of the room.
The man who stood before the window sighed once more, waving his hand as if to give him permission to have what he wants.
"Thank you, I was beginning to feel a bit parched."
It was a few moments of silence later before they got back on topic to the report.
"So, what were the things you wanted to share with me?"
*sip*
While drinking his coffee, the slender man replied, "Ah yes. Well, what I want to share doesn't really have to do with the spies themselves. Rather, it has to do with what they encountered."
His curiosity piqued, the elegant warrior turned slightly in the direction of his friend and replied, "Oh? What could have possibly grabbed your attention?"
"It seems they encountered a new species of Grimm. One that is in the form of a nimble, young fox…but that isn't the most interesting thing."
"…then what is?"
With a smile on his face, the man in the suit explained the series of events that happened, and he detailed them to the finest points…while leaving some things out for a later revelation. This was just a part of his personality to keep his audience in suspense...a very annoying personality trait to say the least, but entertaining nonetheless.
After standing there in silence for a short time, and absorbing the information that had been given, the man couldn't help but to release a shocked voice as a result.
"What?! That…that is impossible! I've never heard of such a thing!"
*sip*
"And yet it is true, my dear friend. Do you believe I am a man who would lie about this matter? It's truly interesting, and a sign of things to come."
Silence engulfed the room once more as the obviously disturbed man recollected his thoughts and reflected on the things that he heard.
A herd of various intelligent Grimm that are led by a smaller, fox-like one. The Alpha seems to have the ability to evolve his herd…through the use of Aura?!
There was just so much to take in that he didn't know where to begin.
It could use aura like humans could. This took away the advantage humanity held over the race of dark beings for so long.
It possessed an ability that turned any victim that touched its bones into dust. An ability that seemed capable of bypassing even the strongest of defenses!
Through its aura, evolving the Grimm that surrounded it was only a matter of time. New, stronger species of Grimm would be birthed as a result, which may lead to unknown detriments in the future for the world.
This matter was much bigger than the war that was currently happening!
While humans were at war and fighting for independence and individuality, the Grimm grew stronger in the dark, biding their time until ultimately…they wipe out the human and faunus race as they knew it.
With a frown, he spoke, "We'll need to hunt them down and kill it. We can't afford to have such a risk out in the world."
*sip*
"I'm inclined to disagree."
With a tone of irritation, he nearly shouted, "Are you mad?! Do you even comprehend the repercussions of letting such a creature go will do? How much things will change if it were allowed to live?!"
"I would normally agree with you…but there is one small tidbit of information that I forgot to share with you."
"…and that is?"
*sip*
"That fox Grimm could feel and display emotions openly. Not only that, but it could speak…in our language, your highness."
The once worried man now had his eyes opened wide at the most recent revelation. If this was true, then this could mean-
"It seems you understand now, dear friend. A Grimm that is both capable of speaking and feeling emotions like any ordinary human…does this not mean he can be reasoned with? The words he spoke to the spy before he was killed were 'You brought this upon yourself'…Does this not mean he would not have attacked with the intent to kill if they hadn't killed a member of their herd?"
"…your theory is a wild and absurd one, filled with too much hope and too little logic. Do you really believe this Grimm will do as you suggest? Please…enlighten me if you have some great idea."
*sip*
"There is no need for much planning. We will simply treat him as a human. Wouldn't that make things much simpler?"
"…too simple, if you ask me." The king muttered beneath his breath.
With a heavy sigh, he continued, "…Alright. We'll give your plan a shot…but we'll do so after the war. The turning point is finally closing in, so we can't afford to do anything that could risk the situation…hah~, I sure hope your right about this feeling of yours."
The king turned in the direction of the stoic man as he continued to sip his coffee, and only shook his head.
"…you're going to be the death of me, Oz."
*sip*
"That is unlikely."
A/N: It has ended!
Hope you enjoyed the small sneak peak in things to come. Like I said, I can't promise any dates due to work, but I hope you continue to read regardless!
~Stay cool, but don't freeze!