POV - Elm
'This is weird'
"Alright, listen up," my new leader Clover said, "We are guests on an island of people that don't want us there."
"So you're finally telling us the plan," the hotshot Harriet said.
"Not the plan, just the outline," the quiet one in the corner said.
"The Generals' orders were sparse but the gist of it is that we are going to be meeting a figure in a white hood who is going to be our CO of sorts during our time on the island," Clover said.
'White hood... oh no'
I could feel myself freeze up.
'He isn't talking about him is he'
"But you're our CO," the faunus of the group Marrow said.
"Quiet newbie," Harriet said.
"Hey," I said.
"What," Harriet asked with a dangerous look in her eyes.
"I don't know what your problem is with him but you best not show it when we get to Menagerie, don't want to give them the wrong idea," I said.
"Harriet, Elm, enough," Clover ordered.
Harriet grumbled something under her breath before sitting down.
"Thanks," Marrow whispered.
"You're welcome," I whispered back.
"We're five minutes out so get ready," Clover said.
"Do you know who we're meeting Elm," the quiet one asked.
This question seemed to get everyone's attention.
"Why would she know if Clover doesn't," Harriet said.
"Because she froze up at the mention of a white hood," Marrow said.
'Traitor'
"I might but I'm not sure," I said.
"Mind clueing us in," Clover said.
"I don't want to say too much, but I will say don't mess with him," I said.
"I'm sure I can beat him," Harriet said.
"So did she," I said.
"Who," Clover asked.
"My last CO," I said.
"He killed a military officer," Clover asked.
"To call her a military officer when he killed her would be an insult to us all," I answered.
"Dishonorably discharged," Clover asked.
"Discharged from her head, sure," I answered.
"Oh," Marrow said.
"Yup," I said.
Everybody went very quiet after this.
"Ready for landing," Clover called out.
I braced myself, and a moment later the Bullhead jostled. The door opened and the sounds of ocean waves crashing on the nearby beach filled my ears.
"Everybody off," Clover said.
"Nobody move," a commanding female voice said from outside of the Bullhead.
'Crap'
"We were invited here to help protect the construction crew," Clover yelled out.
"We know who you are human," a male voice yelled out.
"Calm down, we were told a faunus would be with you," the female voice said.
"Yes we have a faunus with us," Clover said.
"Send them out," the female voice said.
"Shit," Marrow whispered.
"You'll be fine," I whispered.
Marrow stood up and made his way to the door.
"Your name," the female voice asked.
"Marrow Amin," he answered.
"Marrow, understand that you will be the one we approach with questions and you are expected to bring these questions to your CO," the female voice said.
"Understood," Marrow said.
"Good, now as you probably already know I am Sienna Khan, leader of the White Fang," the now-named voice said.
"Shit," Clover said.
"I heard that," Sienna said.
"Sorry ma'am, but I think my reaction should be understandable," Clover said.
"I will let it go," Sienna said.
"Great, can my team get off the bullhead now," Clover asked.
"Yes," Sienna replied.
Marrow was the first off being as he was by the door. Next off was Clover followed by Harriet.
"You first," I said.
"Thanks," my still unnamed teammate said.
He got off as I stood from my seat and stepped into the doorway.
'That's a lot of faunus'
Outside of the Bullhead were at least 40 faunus.
'Hope this goes well'
"Follow us," Sienna said as she began walking.
"This island is beautiful," I said.
"Well I agree with you, but it does have its drawbacks," a small lizard girl said.
"Like the Grimm that you constantly have to ward off from the desert," Clover said.
"Exactly," Sienna said.
"I'm sorry to hear that," I said.
"We've grown mostly used to it, still not having the problem would make things easier," the lizard girl said.
"Have you tried making walls," I asked.
"Yes, it failed and dozens of faunus died for nothing," Sienna said.
"I'm sorry," I said.
"You're understandably very nervous right now, and the only reason I'm not harassing you for it is because of what you did in the mine," Sienna said.
'They know'
"What do you mean," Clover asked.
"If she has not told you, what reasons do I have to tell you," Sienna said.
"Good point," Clover said.
"You will be staying in the Belladonna household, hurt them and you will be hunted down and killed," Sienna said.
"I understand the threat, but how exactly would your people catch us," Harriet asked.
"Oh it wouldn't be us hunting you," Sienna said.
'No it is him'
I felt my face show my emotions as I was flooded with fear.
"What is that supposed to mean," Harriet asked.
"It means that whoever killed Elm's former CO is here," the quiet one said.
"How do you figure Vine," Harriet asked.
"Because of the expression on her face," the finally named Vine said.
Harriet turned to look at me and smirked.
"What, are you afraid of a single person," Harriet teased.
"No, she's afraid of the person who single handedly took out the entirety of Alpha Squad," Vine said defending my fear.
Harriet didn't have a rebuttal to this; instead, she looked at me with surprise.
"You were with Alpha Squad," Harriet asked.
"Was," I answered.
"Oh," Harriet said before turning to face forward.
"What happened to him," the lizard asked me.
"What," I asked.
"You know what I mean," the girl said.
"He had to much going on around him and didn't see my old teammate using their semblance to get behind him," I said.
"And," the girl asked.
"He had a sword shoved through his chest but it didn't stop him, not at all," I answered.
"Huh," the girl said.
"So are you going to tell us who this person is," Clover asked?
"You'll be meeting them in a minute," Sienna said.
The talking stopped and I could once again focus on the sounds that surrounded me. I had always loved nature, but never could find what made me fall in love with it, and probably never will, but I'm fine with that. Maybe it's my name, maybe it's nothing, I almost don't care. Maybe when my time in the military ends, humans and faunus wont be at each other's throats like they are now, maybe I can come to live here.
"Elm... Elm," Clover said.
"Huh, what, oh sorry sir," I said.
"You ok their soldier," Harriet asked.
"Yeah, worried," I said.
"He doesn't hold a grudge against you," the lizard said.
"How are you so sure," I asked.
"Simple, he sees everything that happens in those mines, yet he still spares the guards who don't wrong us," the lizard answered.
"Enough talk, we're here," Sienna said as she pushed open the back door, "Surround the building, nobody comes in no matter who they are."
"Marrow stand guard at the d-
"No, you are all needed in the meeting," SIenna interrupted.
"Alright," Clover said.
Sienna led us through the house into a beautifully decorated living room.
"Take a seat anywhere it doesn't matter," Sienna said as she took a seat on the sofa.
Instead of sitting down with her leader, the small lizard girl made her way up the stairs.
"Where is she going," Clover asked.
"Sit down and don't worry about it," Sienna answered.
"That's very helpful," Clover said before taking a seat next to Sienna.
The White Fang around the room immediately drew their weapons.
"Put your weapons down," Sienna commanded.
The guards begrudgingly put their weapons away.
"Next time say you're sitting down next to me," Sienna said.
"I'll keep that in mind, sorry," Clover appolgized.
"You didn't know," Sienna said.
"Why are you being so cooperative," Clover asked.
"Because my people have something to gain from this," Sienna answered.
"Elaborate please," Clover asked.
"If you couldn't tell by the previous statements we are having a lot of trouble dealing with the grimm as of late," Sienna answered.
"Did you not make a request for Huntsmen," Clover asked.
"We did, nobody answered," a very attractive female cat faunus said as she entered the room.
"What," Clover asked offended at the prospect.
"Nobody answered because they considered it something that the Menagerie guard could take care of," the cat said.
"But-
"Clover, I know how much you an James want things to change, but just cause you have pull in the kingdoms and James is the General of the Atlas Military, nobody is going to listen," the cat said.
"I'm sorry Kali," Clover said.
"You know our host," Harriet asked.
"Yes, we met during the Vytal Festival," Kali answered.
"Which one," I asked.
"The one we participated in," Clover answered.
"You participated in the Vytal Festival," I asked.
"Yeah, didn't you," Clover asked.
"Nope, team didn't qualify," I answered.
"Strange," Clover said.
"Strange indeed," a new voice said.
Looking to the stairs I saw the White Death. Immediately the rest of the Ace Ops were on high alert.
"Seems they moved you quick, how's the outfit," Death asked me.
"It's comfortable," I answered.
"Good, good, I suggest you stand down," Death said.
"What are you doing here," Clover asked.
"I'm the person who's gonna give you your orders," Death said.
"You're kidding," Harriet said.
"Call James then," Death challenged.
"White hood," Vine said, connecting the dots.
"That's what he told you," Death asked.
"Yes," Clover responded.
"Huh, that's not helpful," Death said.
"No, no it is not," Clover said.
"So let's get to the plan," Death said as he made his way down the rest of the stairs.
The tension in the room was so thick I could barely see a foot in front of me.
"Sit down Clover, I'm not gonna hurt you or your people," Death said as he stood in front of all of us.
"How can I trust you," Clover asked.
"Knew you were gonna ask that question," Death said as he pulled out a scroll and called someone.
"Yes Death," the voice of the General asked.
"Just need you to confirm that I'm the person giving Clover his orders," Death said.
"Of course, Specialist Ebi, the White Death is your current commanding officer, understood," the general said.
"Yes sir," Clover said before sitting back down.
"Thanks for the help James," Death said before hanging up.
"Now that that is over, let's get to planning," Sienna said.
"Of course, your job is easy Ace Ops, the one and only thing I need you five to do is make sure no grimm get into the city," Death said.
"That's all we're here for," Harriet asked
"No you're here because James needs you five to work on your teamwork skills," Death answered.
"Are you kidding me," Harriet said standing from her seat.
In a flash, Death had a blade pointed directly at Harriet's throat.
"No, I am not," Death said.
"Harriet sit back down," Clover commanded.
Harriet listened to Clover's order and sat back down.
"Since that's over let's talk location," Death said as he rolled out a map of Menagerie.
"It's a map," Marrow said.
'No shit Shamrock'
"Do you see these two mountains," Death said, pointing to a spot on the map.
"What about them," Clover asked.
"They funnel a ton of grimm directly toward town," Death said.
"Why would that happen," Clover asked.
"We have no idea," Sienna said.
"Of course we don't," Clover said.
"All you five need to do is make sure no grimm get to the city, that's it," Death said.
"Why do you keep calling it that," Sienna asked.
"Calling what that," Death asked.
"You keep calling Kuo Kuana the city," Sienna said.
"That would be because I forgot to ask and nobody told me the name," Death said.
"Well now you know," the lizard said.
"Thank you for the reminder Ilia," Death said with enough sarcasm to fill a cup.
"So is that all we're doing," I asked.
"Pretty much," Death answered.
"Well, this is go-
"Shut," Death said.
"What," Harriet said.
"Karma's a bitch, and a bitch I certainly don't want to piss off," Death said.
Marrow chuckled at his comment. Not long after the room was filled with light chuckles.
"Glad to see I can make some of y'all laugh," Death said.
"So what now," Clover asked.
"Now you all will be led to your rooms," Death answered.
"Oh I didn't realize we were sleeping in here," Marrow said.
"That's what I meant when I said we were staying with the Belladonna's," Clover said.
"Enough talk, you're with me soldier boy," Sienna said as she grabbed Clover's collar and pulled him up the stairs.
"I almost forgot about that," Kali said.
"What part of that," I asked.
"You'll have to ask your leader tomorrow morning," Kali said.
(Time Skip brought to you in part by this new crack ship the author decided to add last minute)
POV - Whitley
I woke up to the feeling of movement against my body. Looking down I was greeted by the sleeping figure of Ilia curled up against my body.
'Isn't she cold blooded'
Looking out the window I saw that it was barely morning.
'We probably have another five hours till the construction crew gets here'
"Stop moving," the tired voice of Ilia said.
"Hey, isn't sleeping next to me not good for you," I asked.
"I'm not cold-blooded," she answered.
"But you're a lizard faunus," I said.
"Doesn't make me cold-blooded," she said as she moved closer.
"And you're sleeping in my bed why," I asked.
"Because it's hotter than normal and your semblance makes you naturally cold," she answered.
"I'll allow it," I said as I threw my arm over her and pulled her closer.
"Thanks," she said.
We sat in silence for a few minutes as we both tried to go back to sleep.
"I'm a little excited, to be honest," she said.
"About what," I asked.
"Blake said something about Adam," she answered.
"What about him," I asked.
"That he's changed, and not for the better," she answered.
"Oh," I said.
"I know," she said.
"We really need to try to go back to sleep," I said.
"I know I know," she said.
We both went silent and tried to go back to sleep. A few minutes later I heard soft snores leaving Ilia signifying that she had successfully fallen asleep.
'Lucky'
I layed there unmoving for some time until my eyelids started to feel heavy as the world slowly turned black.
(Time Skip brought to you in part by this story not being a Whitely x Ilia fic I swear, cause I know not everyone who is reading this read AGITF: The Bird and The Lizard)
"Whitley... Whitley... Whitley wake up," a voice said.
I opened my eyes and saw Ilia leaning over me.
"Good morning, get dressed quickly, Kali prepared something for you to eat early so that you can eat downstairs," she said.
"Thanks for the wake-up call," I said
"It was nothing," she said.
"Still thank you," I said.
"Hurry up," she said.
"Uh you want to step out," I asked.
"Oh, of course," she said as she hurried out of the room.
Grabbing my clothes I threw them on and made my way toward the dining room.
"So what happened," Kali asked.
"What do you mean," Ilia asked.
"You were alone in a bedroom with a boy all night," Kali said.
"What... wait- nothing- he- I couldn't do that," Ilia sputtered out.
"Couldn't what," I asked, deciding to join the teasing.
"Not you too," Ilia groaned.
"Thank you for the food Kali," I said.
"Oh it's no problem, I got something out of it anyway," she said.
"What," I asked.
"This," she said as she showed me a picture of Ilia and me cuddled up together on the bed.
"Huh," I said.
"Just huh," Ilia said.
"Of course it's just huh, you cleared up my confusion earlier this morning," I said.
"Oh and what happened earlier this morning," Kali swooned.
"I woke up with her in my bed, and she woke up do to me moving, I asked what she was doing and she told me, end of the story," I said.
"You're no fun," Kali said.
"You want a story," I asked.
"Yes," Kali answered.
"I called Felix yesterday, Felix is a faunus who I met during my first visit to Mine 17 who I hired to be my personal butler, to tell him I was ok. Turns out I called him as he and Winter were doing the deed," I said.
"Oh my," Kali said.
"Oh my indeed," I said.
"I'm sorry, that's crazy to me," Ilia said.
"What part," I asked.
"The part where your sister is dating a faunus," Ilia answered.
"Oh it gets better, he is planning on proposing to her in the future," I said.
"How do you know," Kali asked.
"Because he asked me for my blessing but instead I told him to talk to my mother," I answered.
"And what did she say," Kali asked.
"She said yes," I answered.
"Did it surprise her," Kali asked?
"So many questions, no it didn't surprise her cause she already saw the signs," I answered.
"Sorry about that, just curious," Kali said.
I started eating the food Kali had prepared for me, unsurprisingly it was amazing.
"This is very good," I complimented
"Thank you," Kali said.
"It does smell pretty good," Ilia said.
"Trust me, the smell doesn't have anything on the taste," I said.
"Oh stop it, you're gonna make me blush," Kali said.
I returned to shoveling the food down my throat.
"We're not gonna take it from you," Ilia said.
"It's good," I said.
Kali gave Ilia a plate of food similar to my own.
"Thank you," Ilia said.
"It's nothing really," Kali said.
I finished my food and pulled out The Scroll.
"Something wrong," Kali asked.
"Nope, just making sure the construction crew is gonna be here on time," I answered.
"Are they," Ilia asked.
"Yup, they're an hour out," I answered.
"Sweet," Ilia said.
"I'm gonna go do a little early morning meditation," I said.
"Ok, I'll let everyone know where you are," Kali said.
"Bye," I said as I left the kitchen.
I put my mask on my face as I used the back door open. I walked to the center of the yard and began meditating. The sounds of Kuo slowly faded away as I entered my mind. I started to focus on my aura as I felt a soft heat cover my body.
"Mind if I join you," a voice said.
I opened my eyes and saw Vine standing in front of me.
"Yes, you can join," I said as I returned to my meditation.
"You do not hold a traditional meditation stance," Vine said.
"And you talk when you meditate," I said.
This seemed to shut him up as I heard him sit on the ground next to me.
(Time Skip brought to you in part by the author wanting this chapter to be finished)
"This is going well," I said as I watch the CT grow.
"Didn't think they were built this fast," Ilia said.
"Well they're not building a giant building around it," Ghira said.
"True, but," I said.
"Yes it is being built surprisingly fast," Ghira said.
"So what's on the schedule today Death," Clover asked.
"Well, you're helping the Fang with their chores," I answered.
"Great," Harriet commented.
"You're working with Sienna," I said.
"That's a little better," Harriet said.
"Better than Taurus," Marrow said.
"Having problems with your fellow faunus," I asked.
"He keeps having his people torment me for working with Atlas," Marrow answered.
This made me look at Sienna.
"Is there something I should know about Sienna," I asked.
"No, I'll look into it," Sienna answered.
"Don't worry about it, I'll take care of it," I said.
"What do you mean by take care of it," Sienna asked.
"I'm gonna go to your camp and fuck with him," I answered.
"I wouldn't suggest that," Ilia said.
"And he's going to do what to me exactly," I asked.
"That's a good point," Harriet said.
"Well I'm off then," I said before turning into smoke and leaving.
Flying here was nothing like flying in the mountains, it was warm and bright here. The people of Kuo Kuana looked up at me as I flew over.
'This feels wrong, being welcomed'
Soon I was above the tree's that made up the Menagerie jungle.
'Oum this place is beautiful'
I could see some smoke up ahead which signified that I was close to my destination. I slowly decreased my speed so I didn't hurt anyone when landing. Transforming out of smoke for I landed in the center of the camp.
"Halt," one of the White Fang members shouted.
"Are you kidding me," I asked.
"Stand down, he's a guest," a large bear faunus said.
"And who might you be," I asked.
"Just call me lieutenant human," the bear faunus said.
'Dick'
"Alright," I said.
"Why are you here," he asked.
"I think you might know," I answered.
"He's right this way," he said.
"Thank you," I said.
As I follow Lieutenant through the camp I noticed many familiar figures.
"If you don't mind me asking, how many of these people did I save," I asked.
"A lot," he answered.
"Interesting," I said.
'This is kind of depressing'
"Not much of a camp here," I said.
"This isn't our main camp, just set it up so that you wouldn't know where we usually are," he said.
"You lot really don't think I know," I asked.
Lieutenant grabbed his chainsaw and pointed it at me. In response I created one of my guns and pointed it at his head.
"You what," he asked in a threatening tone.
"I'm only gonna say this once, get that weapon out of my face," I said.
"Or what," he said, "You don't hurt faunus."
"You're right I don't, but I do hurt extremists," I said.
"You little sh-
"Enough," Adam interrupted.
"He-
"I heard," Adam interrupted again.
"But he knows," Lieutenant said, trying to defend his actions.
"I know what he said, leave us," Adam commanded.
"I'm watching you," Lieutenant threatened.
"Try me Care Bear," I said.
"Enough, both of you," Adam commanded.
"And who said I have to listen to you," I asked.
"You are in our home," Adam said.
"And you justify the murder of innocent people just because they're human," I said.
"Why you little," Adam said.
"What I thought we were stating the obvious," I said.
"What do you want," Adam yelled.
"I want you and your people to leave Marrow alone," I said.
"Why should we, he's a traitor," Adam said, trying to justify the torment.
"A traitor to who, the faunus, he is the first faunus on an elite team in the Atlas military, he's one of the few faunus to go to Atlas, he's even made it into the General's roster of people to send out on a moments notice to protect Atlas," I said.
"Look at that, the General thinks he is expendable because he's a faunus," Adam said, trying to use my words against me.
"Not true, everyone else on that roster is human, you know why, because they're good," I said.
Adam didn't have a rebuttal that time.
"Since that is finished, can we please talk inside," I asked pointing to the large closed tent.
"Fine," Adam said before turning and walking toward the tent.
'Good cause I can feel a lot of eyes trying to drill holes through me right now'
I followed him into the tent where I immediately noticed the faunus trying to hide in the shadows.
"Was he supposed to try and kill me," I asked.
"Who," Adam asked.
"Don't play dumb with me," I said.
"That was the plan, yes," Adam said.
"Well it's wasn't gonna work," I said.
"Let's get this over with," Adam said.
'Let's get this girl out of the corner'
I created a shotgun in my hand and pointed it directly at the girl's head.
"Get out of the shadows, now," I ordered.
Adam drew his blade and pointed it at me.
"Put the gun down," he ordered.
"I'll put it down when she stops hiding," I said.
"Adam put your sword away," the girl said.
"Not gonna happen," he said.
"Is this an ego thing or are you trying to get her hurt," I asked.
Adam stopped for a moment and just stood there.
"I put the sword away, you put the gun away," he said.
"Sounds like a plan," I said.
Slowly he lowered his blade before putting it back in its sheath. As agreed, I dropped my gun to the floor causing it to disintegrate.
"Neat party trick human," he said.
"Not a party trick," I said.
"Why are you here," the girl asked.
"Why are we all here," I asked.
"Answer the question," the girl demanded as she stepped out of the shadows revealing a cat faunus with black cat ears.
'Belladonna'
"Why do I need to answer the questions coming from a girl who can't face her own parents," I asked.
"Don't you dare insult her," Adam said, jumping to her defense.
"Stay out of this, answer the question Belladonna," I said.
In an instant a sleek black blade was pressed to my neck.
"Try it, see what happens," I said.
She pressed the blade further, in response I turned into smoke and moved through the blade. Reforming I grabbed her wrist with my left hand, before extending my wrist blade and pointing it at her throat.
"Now we're all going to play nice, got it," I said.
"I don't have to listen to you human," Adam said.
I slowly slide the blade across Blake's throat making her aura flair to protect her.
"Last warning," I said.
"Get your hands off of her," Adam ordered.
"This is who you run to, I expected better," I whispered quietly enough where only Blake could hear me.
Her only response was a soft whimper.
"Fine," I said as I stepped away from Blake.
"Are you hurt," Adam asked.
Blake seemed lost in thought as she rubbed the area my blade had been only moments prior.
"Blake," Adam said.
"I'm fine," she said quietly.
"If I have to come back here we're going to have a problem," I said.
I turned into smoke and flew out of the tent.
'That went about as good as I expected it to'
I flew back toward Kuo at a leisure phase, not having much to be in a rush for.
'What am I going to do if they decide to ignore my warning? Should I tell them that I saw Blake? What the hell have I gotten myself into here'
Buzz... Buzz... Buzz...
I quickly pulled put The Scroll and saw that it was a call form Brutus.
"What's up Brutus," I asked.
"Wanted to make sure everything was alright," he answered.
"Well I had a blade pointed at me three times," I said.
"Dear Oum, that's bad," he asked.
"Yup," I said.
"Well did they agree," he asked.
"I'm pretty sure they did," I answered.
"You're pretty sure," he said.
"Yeah," I said.
"Alright I'll see you in a minute," he said before hanging up.
I put The Scroll back in my pocket before speeding up.
'Haven't had to go full speed in a while. It'd be a waste to do it here'
I slowed down as I reached the Belladonna home. Landing in the front lawn I took in my surroundings, Menagerie was a peaceful place even with the overpopulation. I walked up the stairs and pushed the door open.
"Welcome back Death," Kali said.
"Glad to be welcomed," I said.
"What's next," she asked.
"I'm gonna go do a perimeter check on Kuo," I said.
"Alright, anything you need before you go," she asked.
"I need to talk to you and Ghira," I answered.
"I'll go get him," she said.
"Why don't I just follow you," I said.
"That's a good point," she said.
I followed her through the house until she stopped in front of a door.
Knock Knock
"Come in," Ghira's muffled voice said.
"Death needs to talk to us," Kali said.
"What about," he asked.
"Actually I'll need to have this talk with Sienna too but I assume she's not here," I said.
"I'm actually right here," Sienna said.
"Oh that's helpful," I said.
"So what did you need to talk about," Ghira asked.
"How I'm gonna keep you three in contact with me cause I can't exactly just come to Menagerie whenever I want," I said.
"Of course you can," Ghira said.
"Oh not because I'm unwelcome, but because of Jacques," I said.
"What exactly are you gonna do with him," Sienna asked.
"I have no idea," I answered.
"Oh well," Sienna said.
"So what are you going to do about contacting us," Ghira asked.
"After my next mine raid I'm gonna give Brutus three scrolls, these scrolls are only to be used to contact people who are in the know," I said.
"You can really just buy three scrolls," Sienna said.
I looked at her with a deadpan expression.
"Forget I said that," Sienna said.
"I'll try my best," I said.
"Is that all," Ghira asked.
"Yeah, am I bothering you," I asked.
"No no," Ghira said.
"Is something wrong," I asked.
"Kind of," Ghira answered.
"We've been having trouble with pirates," Sienna said.
"I thought those only existed in fairytales," I said.
"We wish," Kali said.
"Hold on," I said.
I pulled out The Scroll and started a call with Madam Belyy and Schwarz before putting The Scroll on Ghira's table.
Ring... Ring...
"What's up kid," Schwarz said.
"Hold on," I said.
"Why," Schwarz asked.
"Hello Whitley," Madam Belyy said.
"Well ain't that neat," Schwarz said.
"Oh hello Schwarz," Madam Belyy said.
"Hello dear," Schwarz said.
"Alright come back to me, Ghira tell them your problem," I said.
"Hello I'm Ghira Belladonna," Ghira said.
"Hello Ghira," Schwarz said.
"Greetings," Madam Belyy said.
"So Menagerie has been having trouble with a large group of pirates," Ghira said.
"How large are we talking," Schwarz asked.
"About the size of a Atlas platoon," Ghira answered.
"Do you by any chance know the name of these pirates," Madam Belyy asked.
"The Red Skulls," Ghira answered.
"Those assholes," Schwarz said.
"Yes," Ghira said.
"What would you like us to do," Madam Belyy asked.
"I would like them taken care of, but the huntsman "Can't touch them" or something like that," Ghira answered.
"It can be done," Madam Belyy said.
"I can supply the boats or aircraft," Schwarz said.
"That would be helpful," Madam Belyy said.
"Alright," Schwarz said.
"And that's solved," I said.
"Actually Death we need you to come to the mountains for something," Madam Belyy said.
"I'm sorry what," I asked.
"We are going to be holding a meeting with HIM," Schwarz said.
"Oh, fuck," I said.
"You have nothing to worry about," Madam Belyy said.
"Is his group going to be there," I asked.
"Most likely," Schwarz answered.
"Fuck," I said.
"How soon can you get here," Madam Belyy asked.
"Like two days," I answered.
"That's good enough," Madam Belyy said.
"Alright I'll see you in two days," I said.
"Goodbye Death," Madam Belyy said before hanging up.
"See you soon kid," Schwarz said before hanging up as well.
I grabbed The Scroll off the table and put it in my pocket.
"Fuck," I said.
"Meetings suck, but you'll live," Sienna said.
"I know it's just... I don't know," I said.
"Well I'm sure you'll be fine," Kali said.
"I best be on my way," I said.
"See you for dinner," Kali said.
I walked out of the room and pulled The Scroll back out of my pocket. Finding James in the contacts I pressed call.
Ring... Ring...
"Something wrong Death," James asked.
"Did you know about the meeting between Ozpin, the Creed, and Brotherhood," I asked.
"Not until a minute ago," he said.
"Can you bring Raven's old sword with you," I asked.
"Why," he asked.
"Because Madam Belyy and Schwarz want me there," I said.
"I see," he said.
"Yeah," I said.
"Well I'll make sure to bring the sword," he said.
"Thanks," I said.
"See you in two days," he said before hanging up.
'Time to fly'
I turned into smoke and began flying through the Belladonna home.
'I think I'd prefer this house over my own'
I made my way out of the front door and began flying straight up.
'That's never gonna get old'
I made my way to the coast line and started flying along it.
'I should really look into aquatic grimm, another time'
Below me I could see dozens of faunus fishing both recreationally and commercially.
'I wonder why they don't try to bank off their massive fish population'
Looking behind the fishermen I could see both families of faunus and groups of faunus my age playing together.
'I need to remember that I'm doing this for them, because if I don't, only bad things could happen'
Looking toward the water the only boats I could see were fishing boats thankfully.
'Need to think happier thoughts'
Slowly the sand turned to wood as I began flying over the docks.
'Weird seeing physical docks and Brutus' ship in the same place'
Looking back toward Kuo I saw some White Fang grunts running around playing with children.
'That's what the White Fang should be, not some terrorist faction, but a group of armed faunus who are willing to fight, not for equality, but for their people'
I turned as I reached the far end of Kuo where the huts turned to grass.
'Funny how different some of thecFang members treat me, some want to see me dead, others want to lift me up and cheer'
I looked into the woods trying to spot any grimm, but found none.
'Good so far'
"Knock it off," I heard a voice yell.
'Why did I say that'
I flew down to the ground and saw a group of faunus running from a store clerk. I walked forward until the boy in front ran straight into me.
"Is something wrong here," I asked loud enough for the rest of the faunus to hear.
Everything around me stopped as heads started turning to look at the scene before me.
"I would like to know why exactly this old man is chasing you," I said.
"Because he's a pedophilia," one of the girls infront of me said.
"Seeing as the young man in front of me is holding a small pouch of lien, I'm gonna have to say that's a lie," I said.
"So what, he's a pedophilia, you're supposed to protect us no matter what," another one of the girls said.
"No, I'm supposed to protect any faunus who is being enslaved or attacked without reason," I corrected.
"So you're useless," one of the boys said.
"Sir is this your lien," I asked the old man, ignoring the boy's comment.
"Yes it is," the old man said.
I leaned down and snatched the pouch out of the boys hand. Walking up to the old man I scanned every inch of him for anything off but couldn't find anything.
"Here you go sir," I said, handing him the pouch.
"Thank you," he said before walking off.
"I'm well aware that I'm not the police, but my job is to make sure no grimm get attracted to Kuo until that CT is up, until then expect me to be ruining your fun," I said before turning back into smoke and flying up.
'Didn't expect to be stopping a robbery but here we are'
I continued around the perimeter without any incidents.
'Probably should check on the Ace Ops'
I began heading to the Acs Ops location.
(Time Skip)
"So anything interesting happen today," Clover asked.
"With the help of Death we organized a group to help us with our pirate problem," Sienna said.
"I finished a book," Kali said.
"What book," Elm asked.
"You don't want to know," Kali answered.
"Are you seriously still reading that filth," Sienna said, taking a dig at Kali.
"That filth is the best book series I've ever read," Kali fired back.
"I stopped a small theft," I said.
"What happened," Ghira asked.
"Group of teens stole an old man's lien pouch, I stopped them and returned it," I answered.
"So nothing major, good," Ghira said.
"I found a couple getting a little too touchy," Ilia said.
"Yikes," I said.
"Yup," Ilia said.
"Yes, because that's the most exciting thing you've done today, Death," Brutus said.
"The three blades being pointed at me doesn't count," I said.
"What happened," Sienna asked.
"Had to go tell Adam and his men to stop tormenting Marrow," I answered.
"Right," Sienna said.
"Yup," I said.
"So what's the plan for tomorrow Death," Clover asked.
Everybody at the table looked toward me.
"That's a good question, the tower should be up and running by midday tomorrow, so I think if we do the same thing we did today we should be alright," I said.
"Seems-
"Shut," I interrupt.
A few laughs came from the people around me.
"I said it before, I will not say it again," I said.
"Right right," Harriet said.
"Thank you for the food Kali," I said.
"But you haven't tou...
"Yeah," I said.
"Well there's more on the stove that I can send you to your room with," Kali said.
"That would be greatly appreciated," I said.
"So what's next for you after you leave Menagerie," Sienna asked.
"Me or the Ace's," I asked.
"Both, but let's start with the Ace Opes," Sienna answered as she looked at Clover.
"Well I still need to call the General to get our orders, but it appears that we will be staying here for some time after Death leaves to help with some of the things Ghira requested huntsmen for," Clover said.
"Really," Ghira said.
"I can call him now if it would make things easier," I said.
"Yes it would make things much easier," Clover said.
"Hold on," I said as I pulled out The Scroll.
'Really need to look into shortcuts on this thing'
Ring... Ring...
"Hello," James said.
"Hey James I'm handing you over to Clover," I said as I passed The Scroll over to him.
"General," Clover said.
...
"I need my team's next orders," Clover said.
...
"We haven't had any problems with the faunus beside some Fang members tormenting Marrow, but the White Death took care of that," Clover said.
...
"Yes sir," Clover said.
...
"I would salute but it would look ridiculous," Clover said as he passed The Scroll back to me.
"I'll see you in a few days James," I said.
"See you then," James said before hanging up.
"So," Sienna asked.
"My assumption was correct, we will be staying here for an extra week," Clover said.
"I'm sure I can find something for you five to do," Ghira said.
"Thank you," Clover said.
"This is amazing," Elm said as she finally took a break from eating.
"Thank you," Kali said.
"No, this is comparable to some of those prissy five star restaurants in Atlas," Elm said.
"Oh stop it," Kali said.
"Absolutely not, this food deserves praise," Elm said.
"I do have to agree," Vine said.
"Diddo," Marrow said.
"I wish we had decent ethnic food in Atlas, but it usually is some Atlasian trying to get cheap money," Harriet said.
"Got involved in a few disputes between displeased customers and staff for that reason," Clover said.
"There are fights over shit like that," Sienna asked.
"Welcome to the high class of Atlas," I said.
"Pretty much what he said," Clover answered.
I looked over to Kali to see her reaction. She seemed to be frozen there unmoving.
"Not used to this much praise," I asked.
"No," Kali answered.
"Well get used to it cause we're here for another week," Clover said.
"I just wish someone was here," Kali said.
"Your daughter," I asked.
The room went silent.
"Yeah," Kali said.
"I can tell you that she can take care of herself, if a little in need of a reality check," I said.
"What," Ghira asked.
"I saw your daughter when I went to speak to Adam," I answered.
"Is she ok," Kali asked.
"Do you think I don't take care of her," Sienna asked.
"It's not you that I'm worried about," Kali said.
"Well she was willing to put a sword to my throat, so she may need to get her head looked at," I said.
"She what," Ghira asked.
"I didn't really know it was your daughter when I first entered the room because she was hiding in the shadows, and I don't have night vision like some of the people in this room," I said.
"So," Kali said.
"I pointed my weapon at her to threaten Adam, she stepped out and Adam started saying something and in return I apparently said something she didn't like," I said.
"So she pointed her sword to your neck," Ghira said.
"Yup," I said.
"I swear to the gods I will kill that boy," Ghira said.
"Which boy," I asked.
"Adam," Ghira answered.
"Figured that's who you were talking about," I said.
I felt someone tap my leg. Looking down I saw Ilia tapping my leg.
"What's up," I asked.
"Am I good to stay with you again," Ilia asked.
"Yeah," I answered.
"Thanks," she said.
"Well we best be heading off to bed," Clover said.
"Agreed," Sienna said as she stood up and began dragging Clover up the stairs.
"Not gonna lie, it's funny seeing that," I said.
"Agreed," Harriet said.
"So what's going on with that," I asked.
"Can't tell," Ghira answered.
"Oh what's the harm in it," Kali said.
"I don't feel like being attacked by Sienna," Ghira said.
"Come on," Harriet said.
"Fine, when Kali, Sienna, and I were in training to be hunters. We were all on the same team with one Li Ren. In our third year Kali and I were already very close, and Li was getting close with a woman by the name of An Lawa, this made Sienna kind of jealous. When the Vytal Festival rolled around us along with team STRQ, and a multitude of other teams went from Beacon to Atlas to participate. During our time there our team along with STRQ became good friends with an Atlasian team by the name of JCSC or Jackscrew. This team was made up of James Ironwood, Morgan Cobalt, Willow Schnee, and Clover Ebei. Clover was a very, what's the best word to use-
"Flirty," Kali said.
"Yes, he was a very flirty person, and Sienna jumped on the opportunity to finally get someone. We stayed in Atlas for about two months because our team came in fifth. During that time Sienna and Clover would scuttle off and... fornicate...-
"How often are we talking," Elm asked.
"Once every second or third day," Kali answered.
"Damn," Harriet said.
"Shh," I said.
"What," Harriet asked.
"Just stop talking," I said.
The room fell silent as everyone stared at me.
"Listen," I said as I pointed to the stairs.
I could hear the muffled voice of Sienna say something. I strained my ears trying to make out what they were saying. I looked over to Ilia to see if she understood what they were saying. It seemed by the bright shade of red that covered her face that she did.
"So what are they saying," I asked.
"It appears that they have gotten right back to their old habits," Kali said.
"I'm gonna fuck with them," I said.
"What do you mean," Ghira asked.
"I wouldn't suggest that," Ilia said.
"And she can do what to me," I asked.
"Fair enough," Ilia said.
I stood from my seat and turned to face the stairs.
"I thought you two should know that these walls are damn near paper thin," I yelled.
A loud bang came from upstairs followed by the sound of laughter.
"Damnit Death," Sienna yelled.
"Worth it," I said.
"Hahaha," everyone at the table burst into fits of laughter.
"Well I think it's time for us to head to bed," Marrow said.
"Agreed, thank you for the meal Kali," Harriet said.
The two stood and went to their team's shared room.
"We best join them Elm," Vine said.
"I'll join you once I'm finished," Elm said.
Vine turned and left, joining the other two.
"Can I ask you a question Death," Elm asked.
"Sure," I answered.
"Why didn't you attack me after you finished my old leader," Elm asked.
"Because you listened to reason, and common sense," I answered.
"But I was there to attack you," Elm said.
"Did you follow through," I asked.
"Kind of," Elm answered.
"No you didn't, you didn't truly attack me," I said.
"I don't understand," Elm said.
"That's alright, just know that you made the right decision by listening to me," I said.
"Alright," Elm said.
"Would you like more Elm," Kali asked.
"I would but I would be keeping Death from eating," Elm answered.
"It's fine," I said.
"Are you sure," Elm asked.
"You're fine," I answered.
"Thanks, then yes I would like more please," Elm said.
"Right away," Kali said.
"Death," Ghira said.
"Yes," I replied.
"What was that call that you received after leaving my office about, you sounded distressed," Ghira asked.
"That meeting that Schwarz and Madam Belyy spoke of is one that I've been dreading since killing Tyrian Callows," I said.
"Wait Tyrian Callows, as in the crazed scorpion faunus that has killed dozens of hunters," Elm asked.
"Yes, that Tyrian Callows" I answered.
"How - I mean don't get me wrong you're good - but Tryrian is, or was, damn near unkillable," Elm said.
"Elm, how much do you know about the Creed and the Dark Brotherhood," I asked.
"Enough to know that they are some of the best killers and warriors to ever live," Elm answered.
"There's a but in there," I said.
"But they've been at war - more of a cold war - for the last century," Elm said.
"Not anymore," I said.
"How," Elm asked.
"I found out that there was this old spy ring inside of both the Creed and the Brotherhood that hated the two clans, so for the last century they've been playing games to make the two clans hate each other," I said.
"So what did you do," Ilia asked, now invested in the conversation.
"I can't tell you how I got there because Elm is here and it would give away who I am, but I managed to get Schwarz, the leader of the Brotherhood, to allow me into the Brotherhood. In fact, Schwarz was the one who trained me," I answered.
"You were taught by the leader of the Brotherhood," Ghira asked.
"Yeah I don't know what he saw in me, but he liked whatever it was," I answered.
"Anyway, continue," Kali said, joining the conversation.
"After a little less then a year I was given my mission to enter the Brotherhood as a member; this mission was to hunt down, and kill Tyrian Callows," I said.
"Your initiation mission was to kill the world's greatest killer," Ghira said.
"Yeah it's a horrible idea but I did it," I said.
"I see that, but what happened to you cause there is no chance in hell that you killed him without getting hurt," Elm asked.
"Well your old teammate wasn't the first to shove a sword through my stomach, in addition to him grazing my side with his tail and a multitude of other cuts," I answered.
"Yikes," Elm said.
"How many times did you get hurt just to become the White Death," Ilia asked.
"Well the bulletproof vest isn't a part of either the clans outfit, but was added due to my tendency to get hurt," I answered.
"Dear Oum," Ilia said.
"So you kill Tyrian, then what," Elm asked.
"I made it to a village that a Creed member was protecting which led to me getting to the Creed," I answered.
"Which led to you getting training from the Creed," Elm said.
"Yup," I said.
"So this all accumulated to you becoming the greatest vigilante Atlas, and maybe the world, has ever seen," Elm said.
"Pretty much," I said.
"Wow, do you mind if I give this to Winter Schnee, she's the one in charge of your case," Elm asked.
"Be my guest," I answered.
"Thank you," Elm said.
Translation
Lawa: Polish for Lava