Disclaimer: I do not own the blazblue franchise or the RWBY franchise they belong to their respective owners
(A/N) To answer a few questions I've received
The characters will have new formations and develop new abilities but not this soon. The reason is because even though everyone has trained since coming to Mistral. The best they can do is hone and improve what they already know. Especially since they are limited in terms of time and experience. New skills and abilities will be shown off but in the future. I wanted to do it for Volume 5, but there isn't anything that is chapter worthy and it will be shown off much better in a future chapter. I want to give more details, but it will be a big spoiler and will be much better as a surprise when it shows up in the story.
I have seen the volume 9 clip and I will keep my expectations to a minimum.
Chapter 81 Prep and action
(The Hotel of Mistral)
Ever since meeting up at the City of Mistral. Oscar and Qrow made sure to place Izana in a nearby hotel for several reasons. The main reason is to not only keep her out of harms way. But to also given them a chance to look into what to do with her once everything is settled regarding the Spring Maiden. Since Izana made it clear that she can take care of herself. The arrangements have been made and with Headmaster Lionheart footing the bill with the excuse of personal reasons. Everything went smoothly and nobody will be questioning anything. This also gave the induvial a chance to be alone and commune with certain individuals.
"Was it really necessary to provoke them the way you did Terumi?" Izanami asked in a slightly annoyed tone
"All work and no play make me a dull boy. Besides, it's not like I did it on a whim, I learned a few very interesting details thanks to the function of my semblance." Terumi told Izanami
"Very well, what did you learn?" Izanami asked
"For starters Ozpin has returned much sooner than usual and has already made contact. Which is something I'm sure you already know. What you didn't know is that they suspect the cowardly lion has turned and is keeping a few details a secret from him. Such as the fact that they figured out that Noel Vermillion has the Eye of Blue." Terumi explained to Izanami
"If Lionheart doesn't know, then Salem doesn't know either." Izanami said
"Thanks to Qrow telling the Lion what a certain Vampire told him. Leo Lionheart likely told Salem which means she now knows about the Three Azures and that Jin has one of them. Which will likely make him a person of interest for her. Salem never did trust me but realizing that I've been keeping a few details from her isn't going to strengthen a working relationship." Terumi told Izanami
"As long as she doesn't know of me. You are still in a position of strength. Still I wonder how things are progressing with Bedman and Relius?" Izanami asked before she felt two presence
"It appears we have perfect timing with our arrival." Relius told Izanami
"How goes your temporary working arrangement with Salem's forces Bedman?" Izanami asked
"Everything Terumi has said regarding Cinder and her lackeys has been very accurate. The only intelligent one is the Doctor but I fear that he is being held back by his circumstances. Working will them is going to be a headache, even for my great intelligence." Bedman quickly explained
"What of each of your current assignments?" Izanami asked
"The Kuro Eye is progressing smoothly. Once I fine tune everything. It will be ready for the candidate I have in mind for this." Relius said before Bedman spoke.
"A few interesting development has occurred, Relius is right that Raven in the Spring Maiden. I sensed it when I was in that camp. Though it is clear that Raven is using the decoy tactic. Nobody has caught on yet, which is good for Raven since Cinder isn't truly trustworthy." Bedman quickly explained to everyone
"Given the type of person Cinder is, the decoy tactic is the best thing Raven can do. When it comes to the powers of a Maiden. Cinder is like a kid playing with a new toy who doesn't understand how valuable it is. It's going to get to her head which means a big headache for a lot of people." Terumi explained to Izanami
"Not to mention she is tossing aside secrecy for a chance at revenge. The biggest advantage Salem has is now gone and this will end badly. Everything will occur in a few weeks and from what we know, it is not going to be a smooth retrieval." Bedman explained further to the group
"One good thing did come from this, it means that no matter the outcome. Everyone's next move can be easily predicted regardless of the outcome." Relius said voicing his thoughts on the situation
"Exactly, if the retrieval is successful then Salem will proceed to Vacuo. If not then Atlus will be the next target. Since if Ozpin retrieves the Relic, securing it will be a top priority. I don't see Raven going out of her way to secure it back in the Vault given her past and recent actions. Taking the Relic to Atlus will be Ozpin's best option. Which reminds me, what news do have regarding Atlus Terumi?" Izanami asked
"The seeds I've planted has started to bore fruit. Jubei confirming how powerful and dangerous Take-Mikazuchi is had placed Tenjo in Ironwood's crosshairs. He's keeping it together, so I predict that one more extreme push will force the General to do what we need him to do. As for the aftermath, that requires a bit more prep on my end. Fortunately, I'm sending a certain mute to retrieve a bug from a lion. Once she succeeds, everything else needs to fall in place." Terumi told Izanami while barely able to contain his excitement
"Would you mind divulging your plan?" Izanami asked
"It will be better if you didn't know. But I can assure you that once everything is done, you will see that it will be worth the wait." Terumi answered with a sadistic glee
"I am amazed that Hakumen hasn't caused any significant problems yet. Do you think it's wise to leave him be for so long?" Izanami asked
"Haku is dealing with Salem and the Grimm. But now that he made contact with a certain Beast. He's going to have a new obsession, so it's only a matter before he crosses paths with Ragna again or me. Once everything is set in motion, Hakumen will be more active. Which is why I have a few plans in mind to knock him off the board. Assuming of course the Vampire or Kokonoe doesn't have anything planned regarding Hakumen." Terumi told Izanami
(The Living Room)
Once Ruby and Ragna returned, they brought Qrow and Ozpin to the living room and told them what happened. For a few minutes, everyone in the room thought about what they all learned and quickly proceeded to accept the things they've learned as truths. Since from everything they know about Rachel, she has no real reason to lie. Adding credibility to Rachel is that she was the one who informed Qrow of everything along with Jubei. After the two veteran Huntsman were informed, they were left alone to talk about what they've learned from Ruby and Ragna.
"So for starters, Hakumen is from the future where the Black Beast was never stopped. Who also came back to the past to fight the Black Beast." Qrow told Ozpin
"Agreed, there has always been a mystery surrounding Hakumen and now that we have a basic idea of where he came from. There are now even more questions than before." Ozpin told Qrow
"Like what happens with Salem in the future?" Qrow asked Ozpin
"Exactly, though the matter regarding Hakumen will have to wait. Along with another fact that we've learned. Such as the concerning fact that both Ruby and Ragna are not to fight Terumi under any circumstances. Though I can't imagine why, given what he's done to those two." Ozpin told Qrow
"I agree, did Jubei ever give you a similar warning about Terumi?" Qrow asked as he took his drink
"No, the only thing I was told about Terumi was that he betrayed the other Heroes and his semblance. We kept each other informed on a strictly need to know basis. So either some new information has come to light. Or either Jubei or Rachel is keeping a very crucial secret from us." Ozpin said voicing his concerns to Qrow
"Either way, it doesn't look good for us." Qrow said before his Scroll ringed. When he looked to see who it was, Qrow sees that it's Professor Lionheart calling him.
"Hey Leo, what's going on?" Qrow answered
"Qrow, I finished having a long discussion with the Mistral Council. First I would like to thank you for your help in dealing with that strange creature. It's been causing problems in the Kingdom for months. So for you to deal with it effectively has done a lot of good." Leo Lionheart told Qrow
"I appreciate your thanks, but what does that have to do with the meeting with the Council?" Qrow asked
"I was just getting to that. Since you have done such a wondrous act for the City of Mistral. The Council saw fit to spare a few Huntsman and Huntresses for your mission." Leo told Qrow
"That's good, it's nice to hear some good news for a change." Qrow responded
"There's only one small caveat though. Due to the increase in high priority missions that must be accepted. The Huntsmen and Huntresses can be spared but in a few weeks. I will send you the details later." Leo told Qrow further
"Got it, thanks Leo." Qrow said before he disconnected his Scroll call and spoke to Ozpin
"Leo said that the Council can spare a few Huntsman and Huntresses in a few weeks. Thanks to the mission Jaune and Lambda did regarding that creature. We've gotten some goodwill from the Council." Qrow told Ozpin
"Strange, don't you think? We've acquired goodwill from the Council of Mistral after just one mission. So soon after being adamant that such a thing can't be done and the date of this mission is before the start of the semester." Ozpin explained to Qrow about his suspicions
"Your right, it is strange and this doesn't bode well Oz. We need come up with a plan, so we can be prepared for anything." Qrow told Ozpin in a concerned tone as he took another drink
(Headmaster Lionheart's Office)
It was very difficult for Haven's Headmaster to lie to Qrow like the way he did. Mainly due to the fact that he's betraying the very trust that Ozpin has placed in him. Yet the reason is simple yet all too powerful and it's that he's afraid. Every time the Headmaster has the hopeful belief that he will be free of his fear that motivated his current arrangement with Salem. He is given the painful reminder that not only he is in too deep. But due to his allegiance to the enigmatic woman. He has condemned many huntsmen and Huntresses to death due to his fear.
"Someone as loyal to Ozpin like you actually having the guts to turn his back on him. I can't help but to have questions as to what she has on you." Raven told Leo
"Your not the only one who has questions, but my reasons are the same as yours. I am afraid of her, Salem can't be stopped. No one can truly stop her, when I heard of the Three Azures and the Grimm Aura. I thought that a chance has finally presented itself. But I'm in too deep and it's too late for me." Professor Lioheart told Raven
"You should have left a long time ago. I did and look where I am now. I'm not afraid, I'm smart since I realized the truth early." Raven quickly responded
"Yet as of now you are here just as I am helping her. Your brought back into the fold due to the decisions you've made just as I have. I'm in too deep, for the sake of helping Salem I've condemned many good people to their deaths. I've crossed the line and has done things I should never be forgiven for. I don't even deserve it, for the lives I've destroyed serving Salem." Professor Lionheart told Raven in a sorrowful tone
"Man up, you looked at the situation and did what was best for you. Nobody would have given a damn at what you've sacrificed. That makes you a survivor, not a coward." Raven told the Headmaster
"Are you telling me that, or are you trying to convince yourself?" Professor Lionheart asked before Raven left the office to return to her Camp. After Raven left, Leo took a deep breath.
"I've betrayed Ozpin, allowed Salem and her followers to kill many Huntsman and Huntresses. I've condemned many people to death due to my own cowardice. Even if by some miracle I survive. What can I do from this point on?" Leo Lionheart asked himself before someone entered the room. When Leo looked to see who it was, he saw that it was a girl with a tea set on a tray.
"I wasn't expecting to be served tea today, thank you. Just place it on the table." Professor Lionheart said before the quiet girl placed the tea set on the table and left just as quickly.
After a few minutes have passed since the girl left Professor Lionheart's office. She brought out a small device that was in her pocket that she got from the office. When she looked at the device further. The girl transformed back to her original appearance, revealing herself to be Neo. Once she was finished looking at the device, she put it back in her pocket and started to walk away. As Neo was walking away, she looked out the nearby window and saw a familiar figure in the form of Ruby Rose. At the sight of Ruby, Neo's fist balled up in rage and she was tempted to enact her revenge. But before Neo could do anything, her Scroll started to ring. When she answered it, she heard the familiar voice of Hazama.
"From the negativity you're seething with, it's safe to say you were successful in picking up a certain metallic bug. It would be very ill advised for you to jeopardize everything for the sake of your revenge." Hazama told Neo causing her to glare at the Scroll before she decided to walk away and fulfill her mission.
(The Belladonna Manor)
The attack by the White Fang happened practically instantly. Kali and Ghira, along with their guards are holding their own against the White Fang's attacks. Unfortunately, all of them were slowly but surely being overwhelmed. While Blake's parents are still fighting against their attackers. It is clear that if this keeps up, then the both of them will be good as dead.
"Get out of my house!" Kali yelled as she was firing at the White Fang that were trying to kill her and the guards.
Kali continued to fire at the attackers for a few more minutes until she found herself running out of ammo. The moment this happened, she hid behind cover and looked for something she could use as a weapon. A few seconds later, she found a tea tray and quickly grabbed it. Once she did so, one of the guards gave her a surprised look.
"Do you have any better ideas?" Kali asked as she blocked the gunshots with the tea tray.
As she was blocking the gunshots, one of the members of the White Fang tried to sneak up to her. Fortunately, Kali noticed the White Fang member and was able to quickly dodge the White Fang member's attack and proceeded to smack him with her tray and knocked him out. After knocking him out, Kali found herself blocking more gunshots before she noticed a Bat Faunus flying down towards her. As Kali braced herself for the attack, a dark figure jumped at attacked the White Fang member from above and knocked him out. When Kali looked to see who saved her and she was surprised and grateful.
"Tora?" Kali said in a surprised tone
"Take the guard and the both of you get to safety. I can handle these people." Tora told Kali before she quickly dodged one of the White Fang's gunshots.
After avoiding the gunshots, Tora ran towards the White Fang member and attacked her with a series of quick jabs and kicks. Another member of the White Faang tried to attack her. Reacting quickly, Tora avoided the attack and proceeded to grab the member and threw him out the nearby window. Immediately afterwards Tora noticed an upcoming attack from one of the White Fang members and quickly blocked the attack. Once the attack was blocked, Tora reacted by kicking the White Fang member away. Once she did so, she caught a boomerang that was thrown at her and she threw it back at the attacker.
"Looks like it was the right judgement call for me to stick around meow." Tora said before she continued to fight against the White Fang
(A different area of the house)
Ghira was able to subdue a good number of the White Fang member that broke into his home and attacked him. Unfortunately, he found himself having trouble against both Corsac and Fennec. Making things worse is that they have the help of several more members of the White Fang. Who are also slowly killing more and more of Ghira's guards.
"Your time has come to an end Ghira. With no more shackles holding back the Faunus back. The White Fang shall lead the Faunus to a prosperous age. Where humanity shall finally know it's place." Fennec said before more gunshots were fired by the White Fang
As the gunshots were being fired. The house guards tried to shoot at the White Fang. Unfortunately, this proved ineffective due to the superior cover the White Fang members have. After avoiding another gunshot, one of the house guards tried to shoot Corsac and Fennec. Unfortunately, the gunshots have missed and the White Fang member was able to shoot and kill one of the house guard.
The moment Ghira saw one of the house guards get killed, it took one brief moment for him to be enraged. Once he became enraged, he took off his coat and started to aggressively go after the White Fang members. Once some of the White Fang members were knocked out. Corsac and Fennec attacked Ghira with their weapons and stunned him. Fortunately, Ghira was able to overpower the brothers and pushed them away. After Ghira pushed the brothers away, the other members of the White Fang tried to attack him. Before they could do anything, several gunshots came from behind the White Fang members, and they quickly fell to the ground. When everyone looked to see where the gunshots came from. They all saw that it was Blake that fired on the White Fang.
Before the White Fang could attack, Tao quickly leaped towards the members of the White Fang and quickly pushed the White Fang member to the wall. After making the push, Tao noticed a nearby White Fang make an attempt to attack her. Seeing the attack coming, Tao quickly dodged the attack and kicked the attacker away. After doing so, Tao looked at the direction of Corsac and Fennec with a huge grin on her face.
"It will be most unfortunate to deal with a member of the Kaka Clan. However, for the sake of the Faunus sacrifices must be made." Corsac said as he and his brother took up a fighting stance
"Meow, let's go." Tao excited said before she leaped towards the brothers.
Once she did so, the brothers quickly moved out of the way. When the brothers avoided Tao's attack, they tried to attack her with their weapons. Fortunately, Tao was able to avoid the attack and kicked Corsac away. Unfortunately, she had to use her claw weapons to block each of Fennec's attacks. This continued for a few more seconds until Tao noticed Corsac recover and tried to attack her. Reacting quickly, Tao used her speed and agility to jump around the area to avoid the brothers. Once Tao landed, she aggressively attacked the brothers while continuously moving around them to prevent herself from being surrounded. This lasted for a few seconds, until the brothers stood together and combined their weapons to blast a fire whirlwind at Tao. Before the flames could reach her, Sun stood in front of her and quickly spun his staff to dissipate the flames.
"You didn't think I would let you fight these two alone, did you Tao?" Sun said as several more White Fang members showed up
"Where's Mom?" Blake asked in a concerned tone
"I don't know, I was ambushed right away. She should still be inside the house." Ghira told Blake
"The four of us should be able to . . . ." Blake said before Ghira cut her off
"No, you go inside and help your mother. We can deal with them." Ghira told Blake
"But . . ." Blake said in a concerned tone before Ghira spoke up again
"You keep telling me that Sun is capable and Tao has been eager to fight them for some time. Trust us as we trust you." Ghira told Blake causing her to nod in agreement before going further inside
"Meow, finally we get to kick White Fang butt. Me and my claws are raring to go meow." Tao excitedly said
"Same here, I've been wanting to deal with these creeps since the beginning." Sun said sharing in the enthusiasm with Tao
"Don't get too excited you two, since the both of you are friends of my daughter. That means you two are my guests. Which means it's only appropriate if I help take out the riffraff." Ghira said before the trio fought against Corsac, Fennec, and the other White Fang members
(The Belladona Living Room)
Once Blake left her dad and friends to deal with the White Fang. She was in a hurry to find her mom. As she was hurrying along, she came into the living room and noticed a presence that was nearby. When Blake looked around, she saw that Ilia was standing on the upper levels and once Blake saw her, their eyes have met.
"All you had to do was stay away. What happens from this point, you have brought on yourself." Ilia angrily told Blake
"Ilia, you don't have to do this. Us fighting each other is the very thing Adam wants." Blake told Ilia
"Adam never ordered this, he's busy preparing to take action that will ensure the survival of the Faunus. We have taken it upon ourselves to do this so that there will be nothing to hold us back." Ilia told Blake causing her to have a look of horror
"It's not too late, you can walk away from this. I don't want to fight you." Blake said as she wielded Gambol Shroud
"I will do what I have to do, just as the humans have done to us." Ilia told Blake as she wielded her weapon as well
"Then for your sake, stay out of my way." Blake said as she walked towards the door
As Blake was walking, Ilia leaped towards Blake with the intent to attack her. Though a split second later, the Blake figure disappeared and it was a clone. Once the Blake figure dissipated, the real Blake proceeded to attack Ilia. Reacting quickly, Ilia blocked Blake's attacks with her weapon and the two proceeded to fight against each other.
Blake quickly found herself on the defensive against Ilia's attacks due to the mobility granted by her whip. This lasted a few seconds until Blake kicked Ilia away and proceeded to fire t her. Ilia then proceeded to use her whip to block each of Blake's gunshots. This gave Blake a chance to run towards her and fight Ilia in close quarters with her sword. Unfortunately, Ilia was able to hold her ground against Blake and as the seconds of the two fighting each other passed. Ilia's attacks have grown increasingly aggressive which Blake noticed all too easily.
"FIGHT ME LIKE YOU MEAN IT!" Ilia angrily yelled at Blake
"I don't want to fight you Ilia. But I can't let you do what you want!" Blake responded before the two were able to land a hit against each other and knocked each other away. Blake recovered a second later but noticed that Ilia tossed her mask aside. A second later, the lights have been turned off.
"I don't have a choice, but now you will see where your choices have led you." Ilia said as she snuck around the large room with her semblance activated
Blake knew full well what Ilia was capable of with the newly altered area. Since it is clear that Ilia was using her natural strengths. The only thing that Blake could do was stay on guard and try to notice Ilia's movements. This lasted for a few seconds, until Blake was barely able to hear Ilia's weapon and was able to dodge the whip. After dodging Ilia's whip attack, Blake proceeded to fire at the location of where the attack came from. Unfortunately, Ilia was able to easily dodge the gunshots and remained in hiding.
While frantically looking for any sign of Ilia's movement. Blake's nervousness started to subtly show through her body. Ilia is a natural at camouflage and with their shared ability to see in the dark. Once Blake heard some movement, she fired at the source of the sound. Only to quickly realize there was nothing there and this gave Ilia the chance to attack her. Blake's shoulder was hit by the whip but was able to avoid the rest of the attacks.
"All of this could have been avoided if you'd have stayed by our side. The humans have taken everything from us. Why can't you see that the humans must be destroyed before they destroy us!?" Ilia yelled while hiding
"Destruction won't accomplish anything! You need to stop all of this before all of us are destroyed." Blake told Ilia while on guard
Ilia angrily attacked Blake in the dark again. Fortunately, Blake was able to notice the attacks and quickly avoided them. Once the attacks stopped, Blake realized that this can't go on and needs to find a way to turn the tides. While taking cover, Blake looked at the dust ammo she has and came up with a plan and took aim at the house plants.
"Sorry Dad." Blake muttered before she shot at the plants and set them on fire with the fire dust.
A few seconds later, the fire spread and many of the plants are now on fire and it illuminated the room and revealed Ilia. Realizing that she can no longer use her semblance effectively, Ilia proceeded to aggressively attack Blake. This time, Blake met Ilia's attack head on and the two proceeded to fight against each other. Every attack that Ilia made, Blake was able to counter it and landed a few counterattacks. Though it is evident that Blake is holding back a great deal of her strength. Once a few more seconds have passed, Blake kicked Ilia away and used the strap on her weapon to propel herself upward and stood on the upper levels.
"Why are you holding back? You used to see things the right way. But now you are just like the humans that have persecuted us for years. If nobody is going to stand for the Faunus. Then our only choice is to fight back. If it means that the humans must be destroyed, then that is the way it must be. After all, the humans were more than willing to condemn many of us to death. Or did you forget about the Beast-Wall Tactic!" Ilia stated before Blake started to shoot at her.
Ilia easily blocked each of the shots and this lasted for a few seconds until Blake stopped shooting. Once the shooting stopped, Ilia attempted to extent her whip to attack Blake. Only to quickly realize that Blake froze the whip with her shots from earlier. For the brief moment that Ilia was surprised, Blake leaped towards Ilia and landed on top of her.
"Destruction isn't the only way for the humans to accept us. Ilia, I know your angry and in pain. But I also know that you're a good person, your making too many bad choices. You know this isn't the right and I know this isn't you." Blake told Ilia in a pleading tone before Ilia kicked her off
"YOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO PREACH OR LECTURE ME! YOU HAVEN'T SUFFERED AS ANY OF US!" Ilia yelled to Blake
"Would your parents want this?" Blake asked Ilia causing her to have tears in her eyes
"I DON'T KNOW!" Ilia responded before Fennec was thrown through the nearby wall. The two noticed this and before they could do anything, Tao leaped through the hole in the wall and tried to attack him. Fennec was barely able to avoid Tao's attacks but she managed to land a few hits. Unfortunately, Fennec was on the defensive and proceeded to kick Tao away. After Tao was kicked away, Corsac was thrown through the wall as well and Ghira made pursuit. Once Ghira noticed Fennec and saw that Corsac was momentarily down. He proceeded to attack Fennec, unfortunately Fennec rolled out of the way and avoided Ghira's attacks. Making things worse is that Ghira unintentionally leaped towards the pillar and destroyed it. Fortunately, Ghira was able to hold up a good portion of the degree. Unfortunately, this wasn't going to last long as Ghira was steadily losing his strength.
"DAD!" Blake yelled in a worried tone before she tried to use her weapon strap to save her dad
"ILIA, YOU NEED TO FIGHT!" Corsac yelled before him and Fennec combined their weapons abilities and tried to attack Blake.
Before the fire whirlwind could reach Blake. Sun jumped in front of it and blocked the attack like he did earlier. This time though, Sun increased the spinning speed of his staff and redirected the fire whirlwind at Fennec. Once the attack landed, Corsac tried to attack Ghira while he was holding the debris. Before he could go any further, Tao attacked Corsac and prevented him from attacking Ghira. This gave Blake enough time to pull him away from the debris and saved his life.
While all of this was happening, Ilia looked at everything that was happening and the reality of the situation started to slowly dawn on her. As Ilia took a better look at the everyone in her immediate surroundings. There is one thing that is immediately clear to her. The very thing that she has wanted to prevent is occurring in front of her very eyes. What is occurring is that the Faunus are fighting each other. Adam has spoken many times of how the humans will destroy each other. While Sienna Khan stated that the Faunus must fight against the humans that seek to oppress them.
Yet as Ilia thought more about what she's been told. She slowly realized that the cause of everything that is happening at this moment is due to all of their choices. Ilia made the choice to go along with this mission to deal with the Belladonna's. knowing full well what it would do to Blake who is still very precious to her. Corsac and Fennec made the choice to attack with the intent to kill them. Even with the idea to blame a human with the plan to rally the Faunus with the motivation of revenge. As Ilia thought even further, the image of her parents who died in the dust mine accident came to mind.
"What have I done?" Ilia muttered before she quickly came back to reality
As Ghira was recovering, he looked around and noticed his wife was running towards them in the hallway. At the sight of his wife, Ghira formed a smile knowing that his wife is safe. Before he could get up and get everyone out of the house that is on fire. Fennec approached Ghira with his weapon in hand.
"You need to die, for the cause." Fennec said before he made an attempt to attack Ghira. Before the attack could reach him. Ilia used her whip to electrocute Fennec causing him to fall unconscious, much to the surprise of everyone.
"TRAITOR!" Corsac yelled before getting double teamed by both Sun and Tao. With Sun attacking with a punch and Tao attacking with a kick.
"Finally, I thought he'd never shut up." Sun happily said
"Get everyone out of here, we leave nobody behind." Ghira said as he grabbed Fennec and they all left
(Outside the Belladonna Manor)
Once Blake and her friends escaped the flames of the manor. Many of the residents of Kuo Kuana gathered along with the local police. Many members of the White Fang have been arrested. While the house guards were being treated for various injuries. Corsac and Fennec regained consciousness and were tied up. While Tora was watching over the two.
"This wasn't something that was spur of the moment. You all planned this in good detail. I have a good idea as to why, but if you tell us what you know. Then you might be able to make things a bit easier for yourselves meow." Tora told the twin brothers
As Blake looked around, she noticed the destruction that has been caused by the White Fang's attack. Along with the fire that was caused by Blake herself. After thinking about everything that's been happening since she arrived. Blake came to a decision and started to stand in front of everyone so she can speak to the crowd.
"What is our excuse this time? For so long the humans have made things harder for us just because we're different. It eventually gets too much for us and we run. But we have done very little to make things better. Instead we respond to hate with more hate and destruction. It did get us results, but it came at a cost. The cost was our very own integrity. Instead of trying to understand each other, we fight and destroy each other. Proof of this is the state of our house that's behind us. The fact that many of my friends and family are hurt just because we disagreed with what the White Fang has become." Blake said causing everyone to think for a moment before she continued to speak
"The White Fang has lost its way and instead of being the voice of a peaceful co-existence between the humans and the Faunus. They have become the bringer of destruction. Many of the humans were forced to accept us and now too many of them hate us. I have left the White Fang when they were losing their way. Yet I still made the choice to run and hide who I am. I've met people who suffered because of what the White Fang has done. Yet instead of trying to understand them and make things right. I defended the White Fang and made myself blind to what they've done. Just as we've been blind to the very suffering that made the people of the White Fang turn to destruction. Which makes us all blind to where this will all lead." Blake stated further before she continued to explain
"I don't know how to make your pain, fear, and hate go away. If I could go back in time and change my decisions I would do it. But I can't and right now we need to do what we can and work towards the future. All I know is that Haven is in danger. Someone needs to take a stand against the White Fang. Because everything they've done affects all of us. I am done with running, lying, and hiding. So I will now take a stand, even if I have to stand and fight alone." Blake stated to everyone
"You won't be alone, because I'll have your back!" Sun enthusiastically yelled to Blake
"Meow, I will not let you two fight the bad guys alone. We get to rough em all up." Tao excitedly told Blake
"I'll fight too." Ilia said to everyone's surprise before the police spoke up
"Do you honestly think that your going to help her after everything you've done?" The policeman told Blake
"I know what I've done, but I want to make things right. Please give me a chance to correct my mistakes. But only if you'll have me." Ilia said in a pleading tone
"You can help Ilia." Blake said much to Ilia's surprising delight
"You know the things she's done, you're willing to let her go with you that easily?" The policeman asked in a worried and confused tone
"Yes I am, she saved my father's life and I still know that there is good in her. Let her come with us." Blake told the policeman
"She could have allowed me to die but she didn't. For now let her go with Blake. Once everything settles down we will discuss other matters regarding her." Ghira told the policeman before he uncuffed Ilia.
"I appreciate you for saving my life. I also trust that you will help my daughter. However, I can't ignore your past crimes and even though you've shown signs of change. One noble act doesn't disregard all that you've done. Especially since you willingly participated in this attack. If you do well, I will take that into consideration and show some lenience. But you can't get away with crimes you've committed." Ghira told Ilia
"I understand, it's only fair." Ilia somberly responded
"I'll help too." Someone from the audience yelled out
"Let me help you too." Another Faunus yelled
"Me too." Another voice yelled before more and more Faunus yelled wanting to joining the fight against the White Fang much to the delight of Blake, her family, and her friends
"We can't just travel to Mistral carelessly." Kali said in a happy tone
"Agreed, without any details to go by. We'll look like a renegade group of the White Fang. Not to mention that many of them probably don't know how to fight, especially in groups. They'll need training, as well as proper equipment. But I don't know how much time we will have." Ghira said in a concerned tone
"Just focus on training and prep Ghira. As far as getting the details on the White Fang's plans. Just leave Corsac and Fennec to me meow." Tora told Ghira in a confident tone
"We won't tell you a thing." Corsac angrily told Tora
"Getting you to talk is something I am very capable of. Not to mention that I've been keeping an eye on you two for a while. You did a good job keeping quiet about this attack, but now that you two are here. I can learn a lot meow." Tora confidently told the brothers with a smirk
(The House)
Once it was nighttime, everyone gathered at the living room at both Ozpin and Qrow's request. Judging by the general mood, it seems like the news will be bittersweet. Yang kept a significant distance from Ragna. But this time, she wasn't as aggressive or hostile towards him. Ruby and Ragna were still bothered by their encounter with Terumi. Making things worse is that prior to the meeting. Qrow told the two to not tell anyone about their meeting with Rachel or the encounter with Terumi. Since it could already raise tensions among themselves and make things worse.
"It's good to see everyone has diligently gathered. Thankfully, there has been n update regarding the situation with Leo." Ozpin said before Qrow spoke up
"Leo said that he managed to convince the Council to give us some help regarding the Branwen Tribe." Qrow told everyone much to Ruby's delight
"That's great, things are looking up for us and we'll finally be getting some much needed help." Ruby enthusiastically said before she noticed that Qrow and Ozpin aren't sharing in the enthusiasm
"This is great news, so why aren't you guys smiling? Would it kill you guys to show a bit of enthusiasm?" Nora asked the two with enthusiasm
"We are pleased with this development Nora. Unfortunately, the recent circumstances along with our suspicions makes things bittersweet." Ozpin said before Qrow spoke up
"What makes this very suspicious is the timing of when this will all occur. Which has been confirmed to be six weeks from now. Right before the new semester starts. Which is the exact time frame Salem would make her move against Haven." Qorw told everyone
"Which means there is a good chance that we're walking into a trap." Jin commented
"Exactly, though if by some chance that this isn't a trap. We need a plan for how to proceed with this. Fortunately, Qrow and myself have discussed our approach. Which happens to involve you Ragna." Ozpin said causing everyone to look at Ragna
"It feels like I'm not going to like this." Ragna commented before Ozpin spoke further
"Please hear me out, I've heard from Qrow that Raven has an interest in you Ragna. Which has been further confirmed from what we were told of your experience in the Camp. Which is why only some of us should come along, which includes you. If Raven sees you with us, then she will be more inclined to cooperate with us. Without things escalating to violence." Ozpin told Ragna his plan
"So your putting me at the forefront instead of revealing yourself. Why is it that this sounds similar to the things you've done at Beacon?" Ragna asked Ozpin
"This is a very different situation Ragna. For starters, you are doing this with a full understanding of the situation. Besides, a crucial fact regarding negotiations is that all parties must do it from a position of strength. Raven has the Maiden on her side. But if we show we have the assistance of the infamous Ragna the Bloodedge. Raven should be willing to at least listen. Since she knows what your capable of." Ozpin explained the plan further to Ragna
"What about the others who will stay behind?" Ren asked causing Qrow to speak up
"In case that this is a trap, we will need you guys to watch our backs. Leo doesn't know that a lot of us are here and that could work to our advantage. Which means that Jin, your going to have to stay behind." Qrow told Jin
"You know my capabilities, explain yourself." Jin said in a frustrated tone
"You have the Power of Order, if this is a trap or something goes wrong. Then it would go a long way to have a few tricks up our sleeves. So the Power of Order could be our ace in the hole." Qrow explained to Jin
"What if Ragna loses control again?" Nora said asking the question that made everyone have an uncomfortable look
"I'm only asking what needs to be asked. We can't just pretend that Ragna isn't ticking time bomb. Some of you guys haven't fought Ragna like that. So how can we ignore the risks. Especially since there's a chance that he can lose control again." Nora stated before Weiss spoke up
"I know that Ragna isn't the easiest person to work with. I also know that him losing control like that is a very real and very dangerous risk. Bu I think that Ragna being with us is best for all of us. After all, Ragna has gotten much stronger since Beacon. Which means he will have better control over his powers. We've all have also gotten stronger and I'm confident that we can stop Ragna before he loses full control of his powers." Weiss said much to the surprise of everyone
"Well said Weiss, besides better Ragna is among friends than with Salem." Bang stated which some of them agreed with
"Alright, we all know the plan and when we will put it to use. Let's spend the next few weeks training and honing our skills and abilities further. Because once everything begins, we will only have one chance at this." Qrow told everyone while he received an agreeing nod
(A/N)
Thank you everyone for keeping up with the story and for sticking with Volume 5. The end is in sight and I am excited to get through this Volume. I am even more excited for the diversions I will bring to Volume 5 of this story and it will be very significant for the story. Which will also be a taste of what I will bring in Volume 7 and 8.
Another one of the diversions in the story is that the twin brothers are still alive since Tao and Tora was there to help out and prevent things from being worse.
For anyone who is concerned about Ilia still being punished. Please keep in mind that even though she did do some good in canon. She was practically given a slap on the wrist despite everything she's done. In this story, she will not be let off that easily. But her backstory is compelling and tragic thanks to the details being confirmed in her theme song smile. Ghira is a wise leader, but I don't think he's the kind of leader to show weakness despite his non-violent beliefs.
The device Neo got from Leo Lionheart's office is the same one Dr. Watts used to monitor and record Professor Lionheart's conversations. It will play a big role in Terumi's plans and that is all I will confirm. But trust me, it will be something big.
So read and review
Thank you