Hi guys, hope you all are doing good.
This chapter might be a little different then most.
Hope you'll still like it.
Preparing for the Scourge
Sienna eyed the mentor of Kron with her weapon raised.
"How did you get in here?"
Raven walked to the side of the training room while eyeing her.
"Your guards aren't incompetent if that's what you're thinking, I can just break in anywhere better than most."
One of the good things Ozpin did for her.
She looked at Sienna and eyed her left leg.
No wonder she'd be wary of her.
Sienna immediately swung her chain whip.
Raven ducked underneath it.
The Tiger Faunus didn't stop there.
She ran towards the intruder swinging her bladed chain at the bandit.
Raven had a blank expression as she rose her sword and blocked the chain. She grimaced, surprised by the amount of force she applied.
She blocked the many strikes.
She expected her to have gotten stronger, but not this much.
Raven then tilted her head to avoid the chain and swung her leg to kick Sienna upside the head.
Only for Sienna to back hand the kick.
The bandit then threw a fist.
Only for Sienna to grab it and turned to shoulder throw her into the ground.
As Raven was in pain on the ground, she couldn't help but remember Kron doing that to Hazel in their first fight. Must've picked that up from her.
A shadowed covered her face and she immediately rolled as Sienna's metallic foot almost stomped her face, it cracked the floor.
Raven then tried to strike with her blade on top of her head, interestingly, on the flat side of the blade.
But Sienna caught her wrist and tried to claw strike her face.
Only for the bandit to catch her wrist.
The two were locked in a power struggle.
Raven was being pushed back by the astounding strength of the Tiger Faunus.
Sienna grinned that she was getting the best of this human. Her semblance, Grudge, was making her stronger and stronger.
Raven was being pushed further and further. She grinned and started falling on her back. On purpose.
Sienna was caught off guard as she was lifted off the ground.
Raven then placed her foot on Sienna's stomach as she fell back and tossed her over her body upside down.
Sienna hit the wall so hard that it cracked.
Before she could react, Raven was already in front of her with her blade in her sheathe.
Raven pressed the blue button and pulled out Omen in a light blue blade.
She then swung her blade multiple times though again only making sure to strike with the flat of the blade, then she sheathed her sword again. And she pressed a red button this time.
Sienna found her body covered in ice.
She snarled as she moved trying to break free, but she stopped when she sees Omen now with a red blade.
Raven looked in her eyes and pushed her blade forward.
Sienna's eyes widened as it came closer.
And stabbed into the wall beside her neck.
"As I've said, I only came to talk." Raven said to her.
Sienna sees her point and looks down showing that she conceded.
The bandit leader then gently placed the red blade against the ice to melt her free.
Though it was over quick, Raven was impressed. Nine years ago, Sienna probably would've won, without her Maiden magic that is.
Once Sienna was free shebrought Raven to a room where the two sat at a table.
The Tiger Faunus glared at the human while she stared back indifferently.
A white fang member brought a tray with tea and two cups.
"Here you are High Leader." He said as he glanced at the 'guest'. "Are you sure that you do not need any guards?"
"I'm sure" Sienna said matter of fact and waved her hand. "Leave"
The White Fang member left the two alone.
Sienna grabbed her tea and took a sip.
"What would you like to discuss, Raven Branwen?"
She heard the rage as she said that name.
"I think we both know."
As Sienna placed her teacup down, she glared.
"So, it's true? The boy is no longer under your wing?"
Raven squeezed her fist under the table but kept a straight face.
"Correct" Raven replied.
"After the incident." Sienna brought her robotic leg on her lap and placed her hand on it. "I made sure to keep tabs on you and Kron."
That was surprising considering what happened to her, Raven thought that she'd want nothing to do what Kron nor her.
"I've heard that the Branwen Tribe isn't doing as well as it used to." There was a mocking tone in it though it didn't seem to bother Raven, she must be hiding her emotions. "If someone that strong was under your control, you nor your people would be struggling, not to mention he's been spending too much time as the Underground Arena's champion to be pillaging villages at your side."
Raven still showed no reaction to this, she didn't even bat an eye.
And that angered Sienna a bit she was hoping to see some reaction of anger.
But instead, the swordswoman continued.
"It's as you say, Kron is no longer with me, he's gone out of control."
Sienna took another sip of her tea and smirked.
"I wonder why."
The red-eyed woman looked strangely at that statement. The way she said it had so much fury behind it.
"You've done your research. Do you know everything that happened?"
"Yes, I know that Kron was brought to Menagerie by you," Sienna explained. "And you had Ghira know where Kron was while he was recovering with Kali and her daughter."
Raven didn't expect her to know so much already about what happened. This will make things more difficult.
The Tiger Faunus glared and continued." And you used Kali as a scapegoat when Ghira locked him up, you had him think she was the one who told Ghira while he was healing, and then you would 'rescue' him when he needed to leave Menagerie." She said eyeing her critically. "Quite a disgusting amount of deceit."
Raven closed her eyes; it seemed as though she was affected by that.
"Kali was not meant to be a part of my plan."
It was true, though she did rely on Kron's assumption.
"Like that matters." She took a sip. "Are you disappointed you couldn't hide that from me?"
The long-haired woman shook her head.
"I wasn't going to hide anything; I was ready to tell you everything about that night."
She said it without flinching.
Sienna couldn't see any tells that gave her away, but she wrote it off that she hasn't known her long enough to know.
"Only a fool would believe you, now get on with it, tell me the reason you're here."
Raven sighed and focused on the leader of the White Fang.
"Kron has taken things from both you and me."
She lifted her shirt to show a large claw mark that looked like an ursa's.
Raven remembered Kron using his new attack, the 'Ursa Claw' it barely grazed her, if it had hit, no doctor would've saved her.
Sienna eyed that unimpressed.
"A little flesh wound doesn't compare to what he's done to me." She said eyeing her leg.
"I am aware." Raven put her shirt down. "He put me in a coma, I lost five years of my life, when I awoke three years ago, so many things were ripped away from me, everything I worked for is gone. My position, my tribe." She said shaking, thinking of all she lost. "He has taken things from both of us."
All because of her mistake.
"And he's not done, he's a walking disaster now, doing whatever he pleases with no sense of consequences. He is coming for me, and who knows when the day will come when he comes for the White Fang." Raven explained.
Sienna said nothing and just crossed her arms.
"Over the past two years I have looked for means of getting power, gone all over every continent and I believe I found ways to match Kron's strength, but I realize that I can't do it alone," Raven said. "I need a group, a team to assist me. Kron has a debt to pay you, I can help you collect."
The Tiger Faunus held a blank look and so Raven asked the question.
"So, will you help me put an end to Kron?"
Sienna looked at her for a moment before taking a long sip of her tea and placing it down.
"No"
Raven showed no reaction to that.
"You know he's a threat."
"Yes, he is, to you," Sienna noted. "I've already endangered my brothers and sisters in the fang with him once, I will not do it again. Kron is after you, and the world would be better for it if he did end you."
Raven kept her neutral expression and continued.
"And what do you think will happen after he finishes me?" She argued. "Do you think he will stop? That he will just keep to himself?"
Sienna glared.
"Whatever the case he hasn't made trouble for a single White Fang since the incident, it will stay that way so long as we leave him be."
Raven kept going.
"He took your leg."
The High Leader snarled.
"Yes he did, he was monstrous that night. He had no remorse for it." Raven almost thought she got through to her. "But, while he did take it, you also are responsible for it, indirectly or not your plan was part of what caused that night. I will always be angry about it, but a large part of the blame is on you, your deceit enraged the child, Branwen."
Not deterred and still convinced that she has an argument Raven countered back.
"His exploits show humans not to trust your people."
But Sienna had one of her own.
"You humans will find any excuse to oppress us; Kron hardly makes us look worse than how the people see us."
The tigress stood up and pointed out the door.
"Look Raven, it's clear that you will not convince me to help. You should either hide from Kron or face your apprentice and accept your death for your manipulation. This advice is all I can offer for you and leave my people out of it."
Sienna lectured which seemed to have had no effect on her.
"Now get out, my guards outside will escort you."
Raven sat silently for a few seconds staring at Sienna. She then stood up and started walking to the exit.
Then she stopped just before the door much to Sienna's annoyance.
Before Raven could be forced out, she spoke.
"Speaking of apprentices, you should keep a closer eye on yours."
That got the woman's intention despite wanting her to leave already.
"He's been talking to some humans, plotting to make Beacon Academy fall this coming year."
Sienna had a confused look upon hearing that, then she wore an angry expression as if she knew it was a lie.
Adam? Sure he's always been brutal, he was the first to start killing and attacking humans. But bringing down a prestigious academy? No, she can't believe he would do something that ludicrous.
"This another one of your disgusting lies." The tiger accused.
Raven didn't turn around.
"Perhaps, but what if it's not?"
Sienna growled at her.
"If that is true why not keep it from me until I agree to work with you?"
Raven turned to face her potential partner.
"Call it a free sample, I have even more information for you that you'd love to know." She explained. "That comes when you agree to a partnership between you and I. "
Sienna only glared at the long-haired woman; she was tempted to see if she can stab her in the back.
"One reason I am in my situation with my student is that I was so lenient to Kron's brutal methods when I trained him, I allowed him to give into his need to kill. I hope you haven't done the same with Adam, otherwise, we may share the same fate."
The tigress squeezed her fists. Angry that she would dare accuse her apprentice would turn against her the same way Kron did. Sienna never deceived Adam she was always honest with him and improved his skills. She would never believe Adam would betray her.
Raven decided to speak again.
"You're welcome to believe what you want, if you believe that I'm wrong then do nothing and trust Adam. But if it goes as I said, just remember, I told you ahead of time."
With that Raven finally left Sienna to her thoughts not even turning around.
Sienna said nothing but looked at her metallic leg. Red flashes came to her mind, and she shook her head.
Then she thought of Adam. He wouldn't work with any human, especially one plotting something as insane as destroying such a prestigious academy.
No. He would never.
It was just another horrible lie.
Anima
A day had passed since Kron's visit to Atlas.
In the middle of nowhere in a set of mountains.
A figure dashed at the entrance holding many things.
Kron was holding the ace operative's weapons in his arms as well as Winter's sword.
Once he walked into his home, he started placing them in his personal museum.
He placed all five of the weapons on a flat boulder.
He put his finger on the edge of the rock and wrote Atlas.
He then took the sword and was about to put it there, but he stopped and looked at the boulder holding his prized possession.
Raven's helmet.
With a shrug, he walked over and placed the blade right of the helmet, and stood up looking down at the trophies.
"Tomorrow I will be one step closer to you." He said glancing at Raven's helmet. "And I know I can kill you! Do you know that? Has it gotten to you?"
Just when he said that Kron thought of something.
Gotten to her?
That fight had a huge mess in the museum.
The news must be covering it.
Damn it, he should've gotten a T.V. on it. Oh well, there's a village with newspapers not far from his home.
The Saiyan flew down and far over some forest.
Until he got to the village.
Once he was there, he looked at the collection of newspapers until he found what he needed.
Then he flew off so no one could disturb him further in the forest.
"There it is, the Scourge of Anima attacks Atlas."
The Saiyan opened and read it looking forward to reading how the masses described his triumph.
Anger came to his face.
"The fuck?" Kron cursed as he read the article.
Atlas
Blue eyes awoke, and they glanced around.
Winter sighed, she almost forgot she was in the hospital.
Last night she made it to General Ironwood and told him what happened.
Of her first failure.
She couldn't help but remember the look on his face.
Not disappointment. But rather regret. Did he regret sending her? Did he regret choosing her to be the next Maiden?
She squeezed her fists and sighed. More training. She'll focus on more training to ensure she can capture the Scourge of Anima.
Never will she fail this kingdom again.
Once she convinced herself of what to do about this noticed that her bedside felt a bit off.
She sat up in her bed and noticed someone.
Someone was kneeling, sleeping by her bedside.
Winter frowned, she didn't want to worry her, ever.
Since it was morning, she gently tapped her shoulder wishing she didn't need to end her sleep.
With some prodding, the girl shook.
She started getting up revealing what looked like a younger version of Winter with a long ponytail, wearing a white dress with red underneath the color.
Her eyes widened when she fully awoke.
"Winter!" The young girl yelled and hugged the specialist. "I-I was so worried!"
Winter normally wouldn't show much emotion but since she was off duty, and she felt bad for letting her sister see her in this state she hugged her back.
"Wiess, I'm alright, I apologize for worrying you." She said assuring.
Wiess let go and covered her face in her sleeve wiping away her tears.
"I, I have never seen you like this." She explained her reaction to seeing her in a hospital bed. "I'm sorry for being like that."
Winter shook her head. "Nothing to worry about Wiess, I'm glad you came to see me."
Though part of that was a lie. She's never been taken to the hospital before and always kept herself standing tall, especially in front of her sister. At the same time, it's nice that the only family member she was close to came when she was injured.
Her father wouldn't care to see the daughter he practically disowned, Whitely was probably too concerned with his studies, and her mother was probably passed out in bed again.
"I saw the news," Wiess told her sister. "The White Fang member the Scourge of Anima! He was here! He did this to you didn't he?"
So, some of it got out? Ironwood had explained that he took most of the footage and only left some of it as an explanation to the people why there's a huge shard of ice in the Atlas Museum of History. Most definitely he took out her and the Scourge's battle.
"Is it true?" Wiess asked worriedly. "Did that monster do this to you?"
Winter wanted to keep quiet but she needs an explanation to the public, she should be as honest as she could with her sister.
"Yes, he did." She said ashamed of herself. "He was more of a threat than we could've imagined."
He fought all five Ace Operatives and won.
Right after, he fought a Maiden and won.
Truly a monster to behold.
But then he spared her, all because he wanted to fight again.
Wiess just couldn't believe it, she always thought her sister was invincible. Being defeated by some White Fang member was unheard of.
"Well, I'm glad your safe, and I'm sure he got lucky!"
Lucky? How ironic.
Clover's semblance only did so much before he and his team were knocked out.
No luck wasn't on the Scourge's side.
Winter put a hand on Wiess's shoulder getting her to focus.
"Wiess, remember, there will always be a time when we fail." She explained to her younger sister. "We must use our failures to motivate us to become stronger, and I promise you will never see me lose again."
Wiess smiled up at her sister and then turned to the T.V. screen.
"Here is footage of the Scourge of Anima."
It showed a man a little taller than the younger sister fighting all five members of the Ace Operatives. It stopped and zoomed in on his mask with his monkey tail out.
"This young man, likely a member of the White Fang had fought all the Ace Operatives, but unable to win he escaped." She explained as the footage showed him missing with the operatives standing as the Scourge ran for the exit.
Clearly, that wasn't what happened.
Winter wasn't surprised, Ironwood explained that the footage was edited. It was preferable that the people not know that one man bested Atlas' best and left.
Not escape.
Left.
Though Atlas may be safe from Grimm, giving the people negativity should never be an option, just in case.
"Be on the lookout for a monkey Faunus with a brown tail and 5'9 tall. His objective remains unknown."
The mask was shown to be a gorilla-like mask. A beringel mask.
Wiess glared up at the screen as her sister only looked at it seriously.
"Such an ugly mask." She said with a frown. "And a coward to boot, no doubt he took you by surprise, I refuse to believe he had beaten you."
Winter put a hand on her shoulder, she wanted to tell her the truth but the general's orders were absolute. "Do not worry Wiess, I promise I will recover and be strong enough to bring him to justice."
The younger sister nodded not doubting Ironwood's right hand.
"And I vow that I will be strong enough to assist you when we face him together!"
Winter didn't want her involved. Sure, he spared her. But who's to say he will again? Or not kill her younger sister? But she sees the look in her eyes, she couldn't just say no. In case she ever has to face any White Fang member, or gods forbid the Scourge, then she will prepare her better than she intended.
"Once I'm able, I will help you with your training before it's time to head to Beacon. It will be more intense than before." She declared. "Understood?"
Wiess nodded her head excitingly, more than happy to spend time with her sister.
"Yes, of course!"
The younger sibling said as she glanced at the T.V. still showing the beringel mask and glared.
The Scourge of Anima, the coward, the entire White Fang is going to pay for attacking her older sister.
Anima
Kron lit the newspaper with his Ki, disintegrating it.
He let an angry scream.
The anger was so intense that a vein popped on his forehead.
"Those lying bastards! First they fabricate their history with the White Fang!"
Remembering how the museum depicted Faunus criminals to be tied with the organization left a bad taste in his mouth. History should never be edited, not used for propaganda, it must be preserved as is, never to be changed by the victors or anyone.
"Then! They dare lie about my victory?! They make me sound like I was some coward who attacked and ran away!"
Ran away like she did!
He couldn't stand for that, he turned to the direction he came from Atlas. He already had to rest for a day at the shores of Solitas before flying back to Anima. He was exhausted from the flight from Solitas to here since this morning. But he didn't care right now.
"I'll head back right now! Beat the shit out of General Ironwood, drag him to the public and force him to tell everyone what really happened!"
But then a thought hit Kron.
Winter was still recovering probably. Not able to fight. But she might force herself and get herself even more injured given how stubborn she is.
Plus, she needed time to get stronger.
So, in this case, it wasn't worth going back to show how the people how they've been lied to.
Kron sighed annoyed that he couldn't go back to correct this lie now.
And another thing, he had to meet up with Tyrian tomorrow to discuss another lead to Raven.
No way he had the time to go back now.
This led to negativity and a nevermore flew to Kron and swung its wings firing feathers towards the Saiyan.
Kron merely dodged them and slammed his fist up the creature's chin.
Sending the head flying and making it vanish.
Then more Grimm came attracted to Kron's negativity.
The Saiyan looked around at the mass he was attracting.
"Oh good, I need some punching bags."
He then proceeded to one shot all the Grimm he could find as a sort of stress relief.
Ironwood had a determined look on his face.
Sooner or later, he was going to contact him.
Once he was in his office he stood before a large holographic screen.
"It has been a while, Ozpin."
On the screen was a white-haired man with green scarf and black clothes.
"James, I believe we need to talk."
The tone was as gentle as always, but he can tell that the ancient man is angry with him.
Ironwood didn't blink he stood tall before the headmaster of beacon.
"Yes, we do."
Ozpin sipped his coffee and continued.
"How are Winter and the operatives?"
The general sighed. Winter wasn't even mentioned on the news.
"They are fine, none of them have permanent injuries, nor are they in fatal condition."
It was why they were able to tell an obvious lie to the media and have the Ace Ops use confidential as an excuse.
"I'm happy to hear that." He replied. "It is also good news that the Winter Maiden powers haven't moved on."
Just as he thought he knew.
James said nothing only staring at his long time friend.
"James" Ozpin stated. "I've seen the technology that supported Fria, we both know the chances of them failing are miniscule, security is the best of the best. I'd say it takes someone with a Maiden's ability to break in."
Ironwood's expression faltered at that. His repressed guilt started rising to the surface.
"I must ask, did you, do it?" Ozpin asked.
The general put his hand in his face.
"Yes" Ironwood stated as if he had no issue with it. "This boy is a danger, there were rumors, he is a danger to my kingdom."
Ozpin listened to this reasoning and nodded. He did not support James' choices, but he understood. Power that this boy possesses is dangerous and cannot be left alone. Nor can they act as though he were not dangerous.
Ironwood decided to ask something else. "I must know, what gave it away? What lead you to know that Winter inherited the power?"
"The amount of ice Dust needed to produce those large ice crystals in the museum would be far more than any huntsman would carry."
That made sense.
"How much does she know?" Ozpin asked.
"Everything" Ironwood replied. "I've told her of you, Salem, and the relics."
The headmaster sighed.
"Why not discuss it with us?"
"Because you would have taken too long to agree." Ironwood declared. "Having an active maiden is better than having one asleep waiting for Salem."
Ozpin nodded.
"Very well James, I understand why you did it, but please, we need to be a united front." Ozpin insisted. "We have to work together or Salem or this boy may ruin us."
Ironwood glared at that.
"A united front you say?" The tone has a lot of anger, and it was directed at the headmaster.
Ozpin couldn't help but be confused.
Ironwood continued with a question.
"We yielded some new intel, Winter claimed that he is no White Fang member, and more importantly he had said he fought Winter's power before." He glared at Ozpin. "The one with this power was Raven, Ozpin, did you know?"
The headmaster wore a sad expression on his face he looked away as if ashamed.
"I was going to tell you."
Hypocrite.
"How long have you known?"
Ozpin closed his eyes in shame.
"Since Qrow encountered him."
The general kept himself in control with all the discipline he could muster.
"So you kept this from me for almost a week, telling me not to keep secrets, yet you say we must be united." He scowled harder. "Can you really demand I be open with you?"
The headmaster said nothing only shook his head.
"Again, you are right I am sorry." Ozpin said. "I was trying to figure out a plan before telling you."
Ironwood squeezed his fists.
"We could've had one together."
He felt like he wasn't trusted enough.
"James, hear me out."
Ironwood said nothing signaling for Ozpin to talk.
"I was going to tell you, I just wanted to offer a plan when I told you." Ozpin stated. "When you are overwhelmed, you tend to make drastic measures without fully understanding the consequences."
The general heard this and glanced at his left arm.
Remembering when he made a hasty plan of attack without Ozpin's knowledge. It ended with him needing a cybernetic arm and a loss of powerful huntsmen.
As much as he hated to admit it, Ozpin had a point.
"I have learned from my errors Ozpin. Yes, what I did to Fria was cruel, but necessary. It's no longer just Salem we must worry about." He explained. "The boy spared Winter this time, he spared the operatives this time, but who knows when he'll go back to his brutal methods."
He was right, this Scourge cannot be trusted.
"Yes, and perhaps you can have Winter use her new power more efficiently." Ozpin replied. "However, because of your decision, since I have figured out that Winter is the next Maiden, you realize Salem must know as well. Winter is now a target."
Ironwood sighed and closed his eyes, as much as he hated to admit. Ozpin was right about that.
"Perhaps you did make the right choice Ironwood, I just wish you had spoken to us first."
The general's anger was reignited and narrowed his eyes and called him out.
"And I wish you had spoken with me about Raven, that the boy had bested a Maiden." He spoke. "I truly thought a Maiden could defeat him; little did I know."
Ozpin thought of that for a few minutes and replied.
"You are right, let us agree that there will be no more secrets among our order."
The general nodded.
"We have more intel." Ironwood said. "This boy, we believe his power isn't Aura."
"What?"
Ironwood could tell from the surprise that it was genuine.
"The Operatives managed to get Aura Restraining Cuffs on him, however he broke them with no issue. Do you believe this is some sort of magic? Different from the Maidens?"
Ozpin was in deep thought thinking of this ability.
"No, magic is not possible for this generation of mankind without the Maidens." The ancient being replied. "Perhaps the boy's Aura overloaded the restraints?"
The general shook his head.
"No" Ironwood said. "These cuffs can restrain those with the most amount of Aura possible. Even if he could he broke through them without difficulty, also look at this."
The general walked back and pressed a button.
A holographic screen showed, it was a recording of the battle.
Ironwood pressed a few buttons until they reached a certain part of the clip.
It was of the Scourge of Anima standing over a defeated Winter. He then pressed a few more buttons to zoom in on the scratches.
It was of the slashes that Winter had made early in the battle.
Ozpin was able to tell right away what Ironwood was getting at.
"Those marks, they should be minor enough to heal." Ozpin said.
Aura heals all minor wounds, scratches like what the Scourge has should be healed already.
"Yes" Ironwood replied. "It is possible that his Aura is more offense than recovery, since Aura effects our abilities differently based on the individual. However, these scratches were there for half the battle, they should've healed."
So it can be confirmed that this boy doesn't use Aura.
"I appreciate the information Ironwood." Ozpin replied. "It may not be much, but it's good to know more about the boy, I know for certain Salem has as well."
If only he knew what preparations she was making.
"Do you have anything in mind?" Ironwood asked.
The headmaster of Beacon responded.
"Since the boy's actions in the past I have made preparations of my own, for now it's merely a theory, if I am right, it may be a way to increase our student's growth rate."
Ironwood felt relief that Ozpin wasn't being so hands off about this.
"Is that so?"
The headmaster nodded.
"I can't make any guarantees, but if I'm right our students may surpass their predecessors before the end of the first semester, I will update you once we have confirmed that it is safe."
Good. He wasn't taking this lightly.
"Very well, I will update you on Winter's progress, and if I have anything else in mind."
Ozpin nodded.
"And James." Ironwood looked at Ozpin. "I promise, no more secrets between us."
Ironwood smiled for the first time in their conversation and nodded as the hologram turned off.
Beacon Academy
Once the talk was done Ozpin thought of the last thing, he said to him.
He sighed and held his head.
It looked as though a huge burden have placed upon on him.
He pulled out a drawer to reveal some special brandy he'd make sure to never let Qrow see. And poured it into his coffee.
Being the biggest liar and hypocrite in history was more than a burden on him.
He wanted to trust James, to trust anyone.
But being around for as long as he has, being betrayed by hundreds of people he called friends, people he called family has taught him to never truly trust anyone.
Only guide them to do what is best for mankind, no matter how many lies and false promises he makes. The lives he saved are always worth it.
That is what he told himself every time.
He took a huge sip from his mug.
Once that was done, he got up and walked towards the back of his office.
He placed his hand on a hidden button.
The wall broke apart showing a glowing vault. Like the one he placed in the bottom of Haven Academy.
That vault relied on the Spring Maiden to open it.
This one required Ozpin.
Like the vault it had a pocket dimension not designed to hold a relic.
But designed as a training ground, where it would push huntsmen to their limit increasing their Aura.
But the risk was not worth it.
He remembered one of his lives where he created a room like this before. He basically murdered several huntsmen and students. Those that survived. Gained power, but were driven mad, they were such good people to.
He vowed to never try it again.
But this boy, the Scourge of Anima, he's caused something to stir.
Salem is planning something insidious. Far more than before, he knows that.
And as much as he doesn't want to believe, Ironwood is likely planning something behind his back.
Suppose that's more than fair considering the mountain of lies he's sitting on.
None of the plans can be stopped.
Ozpin squeezed his fists. He'll have to be careful to only choose the strongest of students and huntsmen to be put in this special room.
He couldn't stomach murdering another before they have a chance to do any good.
With a sigh he poured more of the brandy into his mug.
Atlas
Ironwood sat in his chair and sighed.
No more secrets he says.
Everything he said confirmed that he did not trust him.
Perhaps he was right.
But it matters not to him, not when it concerns a war that might've escalated.
He pressed a button on his desk to reveal a hologram for his next 'drastic measure.'
The hologram was of blueprints for something that has been in the works for seven years. Ever since he first heard of the Scourge of Anima's early exploits.
Project Crusader.
It showed a suit of armor.
Its helmet had a white visor with an empty opening where the wearer's chin would be.
It's chest, was slim metal that covered the shoulders. It had Atlas's symbol at the center.
The gauntlets were slim as well with metal plating over the knuckles.
Leggings and boots that were slim and had metal plating over the knees, and thighs.
An armor that is meant to bring any huntsman to a new level. Maybe to Maiden level if they're lucky.
Unfortunately, as of now progress has slowed down due to a shortage of test subjects.
The last one almost became crippled.
He sighed; he knew Dr. Polendina wasn't going to like this, but he'll do anything to ensure Atlas's safety.
He will find some involuntary test subjects, plenty of prisoners.
The Scourge of Anima will never endanger this kingdom again.
Dr. Merlot's Island
Dr. Watts arrived on an island he was annoyingly familiar with.
At first he would enjoy coming hear to discuss with a fellow intellectual, but now coming back he really wanted to give Dr. Merlot a piece of his mind.
Once he was in the laboratory the two shared he sees Merlot typing away on his computer.
The other doctor turned to the visitor and smiled.
"Ah! Dr. Watts, good to see you, I take it you were successful?"
Arthur sighed and pulled out a flash drive.
"I have what you 'requested'."
Clearly showing an attitude.
"Oh, come now, you are more familiar with Atlas's security, I may not have succeeded."
Arthur handed Merlot the hard drive.
Dr. Merlot walked to a computer and put the drive to it.
Arthur looked in the corner of the room.
It was human shaped grimm, Eclipse, sitting and doing something.
The curious doctor walked towards it to get a closer look.
Eclipse looked up to see who walked up to him. It tilted it's head and said. "Hmm?"
Arthur looked at the skull mask and back down at the floor.
It was paper and crayons?
It was coloring.
There were many drawings on the floor all of them stick figures with houses, looked as though it was drawn by children.
Dr. Watts turned to Dr. Merlot while glancing at the creature who seemed to be staring at him.
"You had me steal that fat imbecile's work, for this?" He said gesturing to Eclipse.
Eclipse looked down and started whimpering.
Dr. Merlot turned his head as holograms came up of the blueprints Arthur stole.
"Ignore him son, he's just not in a good mood." Dr. Merlot smiled to Eclipse. "Keep coloring, he's only jealous because he can't draw like you."
Eclipse looked at Watts and nodded while doing a light squeal as if happy to hear that then went back to focus on coloring his next picture.
This seemed to anger the younger scientist even more.
Merlot then focused on his comrade.
"First of all, we've been over this, please do not refer to my son as 'this' or 'it', he can understand you and is very sensitive at his age."
Watts seemed further annoyed at the doctor but kept his tongue.
"And second I'll have you know Eclipse has very much improved already, what he does on his free time is his decision, let him draw."
The doctor turned to look at Eclipse.
Eclipse looked no different to when Cinder sparred with him. It was still skinny, slightly tall with no real visible change.
"I fail to see that."
Dr. Merlot shrugged.
"Well today is his day off, tomorrow he will train feel free to come to see his progress."
"hmph"
Dr. Watts walked away leaving him with his pet.
"Wait"
The other doctor turned to Merlot wondering what else he wanted.
"I need your help with the next step, it will be vital."
Watts turned to him and tried to keep his composure.
"I understand the importance of Eclipse, however I have my own countermeasure for the Scourge, as well as creating a virus for Cinder's mission." He explained. "I already hindered my time with helping you."
Dr. Merlot walked until he was in front of Watts.
"I understand, which is why I will help you once you help me, please, remember my research will not only bring Eclipse to his potential."
Arthur weighed his options, he wanted to tell him no but he knows that if Merlot is successful, it will be good for them all.
The scientist looked at Eclipse who was still coloring without a care in the world.
"I will" Arthur replied. "If you show me his progress."
Merlot frowned at that and sighed.
"Very well." He turned to his prize creation. "Eclipse! Can you come here?"
Eclipse looked at the two men, put his crayons down and walked to his father and Watts.
"Eclipse, I'm sorry I know it's your day off but can you show Dr. Watts here your progress?"
Eclipse nodded and squealed.
"Such a good boy." Dr. Merlot said with a smile. "Now head to the training area, I'll have your opponent ready."
The human grimm nodded and headed to get ready.
Both scientists looked through a window of the training area.
Watts turned to the window to see what exactly was going to fight Eclipse.
Eclipse got to the training ring and waited for its opponent.
On the other side it revealed a big bulky war machine that Watts recognized easily.
"That, is an Atlesian Paladin, how did you get it?"
"I've stumbled upon some blueprints while I was searching for Eclipse's next step."
The paladin had an Atlesian knight piloting it and got closer to Eclipse. It fired from its cannon.
And Eclipse jumped as the canon hit the ground. He then jumped around the mech as it kept shooting.
Watts was kind of impressed with its speed, a far cry from its match with Cinder.
The creature then dashed towards the metal monstrosity.
It couldn't fire its cannon, so it tried to punch him.
But Eclipse jumped on the machine's arm as it punched the ground.
Then he jumped off and kicked its face.
Despite the human like Grimm's skinny figure the machine actually fell on its back and hit the ground.
Watts couldn't help but admire the strength.
Eclipse then grabbed one of the machine's legs and ripped it off. He then slammed it against the paladin's head repeatedly.
He kept breaking it over and over even when the robot inside stopped piloting it.
"Ok, Eclipse, it's over, you can stop."
Eclipse stopped and looked at the window. He nodded and left the training room.
Merlot looked at the doctor who seemed slightly astonished. How could he not? The paladin was still a prototype, but it takes a team of trained huntsman to take it on.
"Well?"
Watts coughed to focus himself.
"That was adequate improvement, still hardly Maiden level, just crude attack no strategy and far from what you promised Salem."
Merlot nodded as Eclipse came to his father and Watts.
"Very good Eclipse, Dr. Watts was very impressed."
Eclipse looked at Arthur and got closer to him as if to ask, 'really?'
The other doctor took a few steps away from the creature.
"Hmhmhm, alright Eclipse, you can continue coloring, thank you for showing what you have so far."
Eclipse nodded and squealed and went back to his crayons and paper.
Merlot turned to Watts.
"Yes, your criticism is accurate which is why I need your assistance, you understand Dr. Polendina's work better than I do, we can take Eclipse to the next step in his evolution faster together to achieve our goals." He reasoned and asked again. "So will you help me?"
Watts really didn't want to but seeing Eclipse's behavior as well as his power he couldn't help but be curious as to what it, or rather he will become. The younger doctor sighed.
"Show me."
Dr. Merlot walked to the computer he put the flash drive in.
It showed a hologram of a blueprints that had a picture of what looked like a girl with short hair, a dress, and many swords behind her.
"You want to create another android like Polendina's, how does it help Eclipse?" Watts asked.
"Not an android, just part of it." Dr. Merlot replied. "Specifically, we need this."
Merlot put his hands on the hologram, and it zoomed in on the girl.
It showed something circular with a crosshair and more circles in the middle.
The screen showed something labeled power core.
Watts looked at it and turned to Eclipse who was coloring.
"I still do not believe that this will work. It is impossible and ludicrous; you'll destroy your own creation with this."
"Son" Merlot corrected with a light scowl. "And what I've learned from Salem, is, with enough time, effort, and research there is no such thing as impossibility."
Eclipse walked behind Merlot.
The scientist turned to his 'son'.
Eclipse held up a paper.
It was a childish drawing of Dr. Merlot with Eclipse in a park.
Dr. Merlot took the picture and looked at it.
"Oh is this for me?" Merlot smiled like a doting father and looked at Eclipse. "Thank you, Eclipse, I'll hang it on the wall!"
Then the doctor hugged his prize creation and Eclipse returned it.
Underneath Eclipse's mask was a red line forming into a smile and he squealed like a child.
Watts watched the 'father' and 'son's display. And focused on the power core.
When Watts found out what Dr. Merlot was planning, he was regretting wasting time on this project.
There's no possible way, with or without Salem it can be done.
He looked at the duo giggling like idiots.
A sigh escaped his mouth.
Why did he agree to this again?
Tyrian stood at the last place he met the Scourge tapping his foot and looking a his tail while it shook.
"Mmm" He was annoyed. It was getting late.
To his relief he sees the sky a figure dressed in black.
Kron landed just in front of Tyrian.
He was in a spare outfit he had incase his clothes got ruined.
Though his Berringel mask still had a corner of it missing showing one of Kron's eyes.
The scorpion didn't finch from that in fact he looked annoyed.
"Finally, what took so long?" He asked. "And what happened to your mask?"
He already knew but had to play the part.
The Saiyan scoffed, he rolled the eye that could be seen.
"You didn't give me a time, anyway, I'm here."
Tyrian couldn't help but notice a lack of ordering him to take him to the next place. In fact, he sensed a bit less enthusiasm from his voice.
But it didn't matter he was here and will help him with his final harvest.
"Alright then, this time it will be a bit different."
"Different how?"
"See I found a lead to Raven, there a group of people that would very much want her dead." He said giggling.
A group of people? Made sense, Raven had more enemies than anyone could count.
"You'll love this, they have two things you want."
"Two things?" The Saiyan asked. "You mean two leads?"
"Not quite, though you'll be interested to know what they have to offer aside from Raven's lead."
Kron rolled his eyes at this but let him continue.
"They can undo Raven's semblance on you."
A few seconds passed with Kron showing no reaction.
"What?" He sounded bewildered at that.
Tyrian seemed pleased to have finally gotten a reaction out of this.
"Yes, the semblance that Raven has on you, Kindred Link?" He asked. "They have the means to undo her semblance, no longer will she be able to portal to you, or more importantly, tell where you are."
Kron's eyes widened from behind his mask.
"That's impossible" The Saiyan said thinking that Tyrian was playing him at this point. "Raven told me Kindred Link is permanent that there is no way the link can be undone."
Tyrian giggled and smiled with a toothy grin.
"Kron, there so many people in this world. So many semblances, some similar, some very unique and with a very specific ability. This semblance is called Cancel, it is able to undo the effects of any semblance."
Kron couldn't believe what he was hearing.
Tyrian took that as a sign to continue.
"For instance, I once knew someone with a semblance that's called Paralysis, if they were to paralyze someone, this person can use Cancel to undo it. Make sense?"
If that's true, then Raven would never find out where he is anymore.
She would never be able to see him coming!
That was one of the reasons it was so hard to find her! That damn semblance tells her how close he is and give her que to escape.
Without it. She'll be so infinitely easier to find.
His rage with Atlas started to dissipate, excitement filled his mind. His goal will be so much more obtainable.
Still, he couldn't help but be skeptical, this all sounded too convenient.
"That sounds too good to be true, how do I know that this isn't some trick?"
Tyrian merely shrugged.
"There isn't any evidence I can show you, so you can just kill me if you find out it isn't true." It sounded like he was offering something of no consequence.
Not that Kron minded.
"Fine, then enough talk, take me to these clients."
"Before that they'd like you to handle a certain problem."
Kron growled.
"Now, now, it's nothing you would hate, it's another battle for you to enjoy."
The Saiyan scoffed but saw no harm in it. He was still furious with Atlas's or specifically, General Ironwood's lie. Another punching bag might allow him to relieve what's left of his anger.
"Alright, who am I fighting?"
Tyrian brought out his scroll to show a picture.
It was a woman with long brown hair with two big tuffs of hair on top. She had reddish brown eyes and faint color of skin. She wore a tight body suit with metal plating on the chest and shoulders.
"This girl huh?"
"Her name is Sepia Ugla, she's been causing my client some problems." Tyrian said. "This is what you call a triple deal, you bring her to me, I recruit her, and our client get's their problem taken care of, and I will give you your lead and undo Raven's semblance."
Kron looked at the woman in the picture. He hasn't been in a good mood since his trip to Atlas, maybe it'll put him back in a good mood.
"Fine, I guess I can afford a quick fight, she better be good, where is she?"
The scorpion chuckled.
"She's a bit west from here." Tyrian gave Kron a map with a mark. "In a forest riddled with corpses."
Kron rose an eyebrow.
"So, is this another criminal like Dr. Turquoise?"
"No, no, she's a huntress, a bit more vicious than most your used to." Tyrian explained. "And only to a specific group of people."
Kron scoffed.
"Oh, one with a problem for Faunus, pfft, I'm guessing the client is White Fang?"
Tyrian shook his head.
"No, no, she's one of us."
It's funny how wrong he is. But as usual Kron did not correct him.
"What?" He looked at the photo trying to look for the Faunus trait. "I see nothing, is she hiding it in that tight suit?"
Tyrian pointed at the photo.
"Here, these are the traits."
Kron got a closer look and sees him pointing it at the tuffs of hair on top of her head.
"What? That's a Faunus trait, those big tuffs of hair?"
Tyrian pulled back and looked at it.
"Yes, see, she's an owl Faunus, those tuffs on her head are like those you see on an owl's head."
Kron chuckled.
"She could've gotten wings, someone lost the genetic lottery." He looked at the map.
Tyrian shrugged his shoulders. "I believe that they amplify sound, allowing her to hear much farther and able to tell the land their on."
"Whatever, I'm guessing you want me to bring her here, right?"
"Yes, once you do, I will tell you where the client is." Tyrian explained.
"A huh" Kron turned.
"Before you go her semblance is-"
"Shut it."
Tyrian looked confused at what he said.
"I want to be surprised, it's no fun if I already know her ability."
"I see, well good luck."
Kron flew while holding the map to his masked face.
Once he was gone Tyrian walked away.
After a bit of walking, he came to an abandoned looking shack.
He opened it and looked at someone sitting inside.
"As I promised Kron is taking care of that problem you have."
The person he was talking to drummed their fingers on the table.
"Good." A young woman's voice spoke. "And remember the terms?"
"Yes, your people will be left alone when my goddess graces the world." Tyrian said smiling. "I must say I am surprised that you were willing to work with me, I always thought you'd avoid people who serve the goddess."
The woman spoke and stood up.
"I will always do what is needed for my people to survive."
The light from the outside shined in on the figure inside.
It was a Grimm helmet with red lines across its face. It was a copy of one Kron knew very well.
This helmet was only to be worn by the leader of the Branwen Tribe.
So when I said this chapter was a little different I meant that it has the least amount of Kron. It focuses more on the people he's effecting and gives hints to what they're doing.
Everyone has a plan, now question is, are any of them gonna contend with Kron. Maybe they've been working on it ever since he was a kid.
Also thought I'd show a bit of Eclipse since some of you guys are interested in him and a couple of you seem to like him. And what his upgrade is going to be.
And guess what guys?
Now all of team RWBY have been in this story.
Blake was way back when Kron was a kid.
Yang was in chapter 21.
Ruby in chapter 23.
And Wiess is in this chapter.
All of the main characters of RWBY have finally been shown in this story. It took 28 chapters, don't know if that's good or bad but hey, u guys don't seem to mind.
And listen I wanna say this arc will be longer than the last one, more than 20 chapters, so we'll have plenty of interactions with Kron and RWBY some of u are waiting for. Ok? Promise.
Ok, so I hope u guys liked this chapter I hope it's left you intrigue how Kron has basically changed Remnant's war.
And, next chapter u might not see coming either but I think you'll like it.
Review Responses
johan641xd: That is true. Good question the answer why she doesn't do it gets pointed out later but I guess I can spoil it now it's not really that important. It's because Raven knows that Kron has a high sense of smell. Kid Goku has it, Shallot has it to so it's likely an ability plenty if not all Saiyan's share. Raven does not want Kron to even know she's been to his cave, she want's to remain as far away as possible until she knows she can combat him, as for why no one else has found it. Anima is the biggest continent on Remnant and it has the most wildlands, Kron chose a place that not just anyone can go to.
It's a good idea though, it's just Raven's priority isn't to steal any of his things right now. Also when she awoke from her coma she had a lot on her plate, you'll see what I mean next chapter.
Also your english is fine I get what you were asking.
Guest: So I agree with u, but I will say your fellow guest didn't mean any harm, he was just saying his opinion. He was only trying to help make my story better.
Guest: I'm glad your enjoying the story so far, I hope with your support I can keep it up.
WingNUT38: Glad to hear from you again. I'm happy that you enjoyed the last three chapters. Thank you I always enjoy writing the fight scenes, and hearing them getting praise feels good. And glad that you liked Manticore Massacre. I thought I had to give Kron another interest besides fiighting, since learning history and helping his father tell stories was all he was allowed to do on Planet Vegeta it seemed to make the most sense. And am happy to see that you like that to, and ya I get what ya mean, a lot of the OC's felt kinda the same. Some do land it though like Mato from The Boy With the Monkey Tail.
Kamencolin: Thank you! Can't wait to show you the next one!
Easy or Hard: LOL! Thank you I watched it and love it. I don't think I can have Kron say that, I just can't see him saying that, but you know what I'll have someone say it at some point.
Guest: Appreciate the info. Question though. Do you think Vegeta, if he had the Wrath State, would he get the yellow eyes or blue eyes? Cause SSJ4 Goku has yellow eyes like the Wrath State eyes. And Vegeta's SSJ 4 has blue eyes. What do you think? Also hope u enjoy the story.
TheJSmooth: Good to hear. Poor jimmy, Kron's gonna have too much fun with him.
Saiyanwarrior22: Good to hear, I tried to make his fighting style a little unique. And hope I can continue making Kron work for you. Not to worry, I've been writing for fun lately and I will give myself a break as soon as I feel I need one, thank u for the concern.
ThatSaiyaGuy: Thank you! Lol glad you liked him taking a joyride. Winter's the type to keep herself in control on a mission. Yeah and the fact that he has a hard time finding a worthy opponent is going to give him other priorities besides revenge, picking fights, and learning history.
So Kron basically has stagnated, at this point it's hard for him to get any stronger. Yep, everyone has a plan of their own to counter Kron's overwhelming power, perhaps one of those will give Kron the challenge he wants. As you can see Merlot's interested in recreating and modifying Penny's power core for something. Good guess though.
Yep, Crusader is an armor, supposedly to help any huntsman stack up to Kron. And now Ironwood will be getting test subjects cause whatever it does has a risk, hope it ends well for him. Lol, funny cause I started Jojo part 1 recently.
Basically an alliance to kill Kron. Though Sienna want's no part in it and doesn't trust Raven. For valid reasons. And even if she doesn't agree, Raven has been looking for ways to counter Kron, supposedly she found some. And she also found and told Sienna Adam's talks with Cinder. Hope for her sake she believes her consideirng what happened in canon.
Thank you, hope you'll look forward to it!
Guest: He bascally is. But unforunately for Kron, Ironwood thought it best for no one to know that Atlas's top elite lost to one man or boy since Kron is 17. Poor Kron, he loves attention and hates it when they change the story.
I do not. Ya I agree with you though. I did have a beta reader awhile back but they had to stop for personal reasons. I'll consider getting myself another beta or a discord at some point. And try to minimize my errors, thank you for letting me know. And glad u enjoyed the chapter.
Guest: U have nothing to be sorry for man, I get it, when someone writes a story I enjoy is going to do something I don't like I also ask them not to. It's not a bad thing I did say I was open to suggestions and I do appreciate you giving me your reasoning.
And I didn't mean to accuse u of not liking it. I just said that I would like to give Kron the Wrath form at some point. Plus I did promise others that I would do it, including someone who helped me with this story and gotten me many fanart. So even if I didn't want to, It'd be kinda mean if I didn't after I already promised. I understand that it'd be hard to get the Wrath State, so I'll make him earn it. Hopefully I can make it happen in a way you can accept it at least.
Your not annoying me at all, your being very understanding and respectful. I've had my share of people that wanted me to do something in my story, they lashed out whenever I tried to refuse. Your nothing like that I hope I can continue having understanding people like you review my story. You've done nothing wrong and I hope you can say the same about me.
Feel free to give more suggestions any time. Hope you can enjoy this ride as well.
Lelouch of Zero: Thank you! I always was confused with the Schnee semblance but glat it went well. Yeah, plus most of Kron's techniques he created were named after Grimm so it would makes sense. Ya, his lack of defense may come back to bite him at some point. Well Sienna's not for it at the moment, but who knows, especially since Raven tipped her off about her own student.
Bear295: Thank you, I thought Kron needed a rush move at this point. Well Raven and Sienna's talk didn't go that well for Raven, but who knows what Sienna will do about Adam. Lol you might get your wish.
suppes1: Thank you. Might not be much further till you might get your wish actually.
BunkerfreakHD: Thank you. Well, if he did it would go against his character development, he cares too much what Kali would think, also letting them live means they'll attack him again all the more fun for him. But, there is a group of people besides Raven that he'd love to murder, maybe u can see a bit of it by then.
So guys, I see a couple of u debating. Your free to do that, but plz keep it civil ok? Don't let it escalate into an argument.
I want everyone here to enjoy the ride while also having friendly debates. Ok?
I'm trusting u guys, be respectful ok?
Alright guess that's it.
Have an awesome day! :)