Disclaimer: I do not own the blazblue franchise or the RWBY franchise they belong to their respective owners
(A/N)
For the complaints about Volume 6 that I'm aware of. I know it's obvious but I do want to confirm it. Adam is going to be alive longer than he was in canon along with the White Fang. In fact I already have several plans for the White Fang in the story and I'm excited for them.
Also Ragna and his other siblings are children of an artificial human and a regular human. They are not related to a Maiden.
I tried really hard to find a way for the characters to be related to Salem but after looking at the drafts I decided to do this for a few reasons.
One of the biggest reasons is that one of the Blazblue/RWBY fanfic stories called "Blazblue Alternative Remnant" that was inspired by this story has Ragna and Jin related to Salem and Ozpin. So I decided it would be best to not use that plot element to help differentiate our stories further. While preventing that relationship concept being derivative.
Though I will say this, there are other magic users and technically speaking nothing is truly ruled out.
For Yang's feelings regarding Nu. This chapter will go into more details about it but it's too soon to say that Yang has been fully robbed of it. The situation is just a bit more complicated. Because even though Nu has an excuse for being what she is, it still doesn't change the fact that Nu killed people and cut Yang's arm off. Also keep in mind that I still have a lot of plans for her.
Chapter 88 Lost Trails
(Crash Site)
As the cold air blows through the area, everyone felt the chill that matched the tension. The truth regarding Ozpin was hard to hear and will be even harder to accept. With the fact that Salem is immortal and the full details of the Relic. But nobody expected Ruby to want to learn more about Ragna's attention. Yet when they did, they didn't think they would learn the things they did. From learning that Noel is Jin's twin sister. To learning that Ragna and his siblings are half human with the other half technically not human. More stand-out details includes how the Murakumo Labs have a major impact on Ragna's life. For creating his mother and for playing a crucial role in his biological parents death. Yet more details that truly did stand out to them is that they all saw in great detail what Nu endured. Which paints the full picture as to how Nu's sanity died. Yet the biggest detail that was learned is that Hakumen is not only from the future, but his real identity is Jin Kisaragi, Ragna's very own brother. Rachel told Ragna and Ruby where Hakumen is from. Yet the other details was something that Rachel did not tell them.
As everyone stood there in front of the spirit of the Lamp. All eyes were directed at Ragna with a shared concerned look. Most of them didn't know what to think, especially since they never thought they would have to deal with someone who is half artificial human. Yet everyone else is looking at Ragna worried about how he's taking this. Yang looks the most concerned, especially since she is still livid with Nu for cutting off her arm. Yet upon seeing what Nu endured, Yang's feelings regarding the young girl is complicated. As she looked at Ragna, he has a look that's a mix of pain and rage.
"Why?" Ragna asked the spirit of the lamp
"Ragna . . . ." Yang said in a concerned tone before Ragna spoke again
"Why did Nu have to endure something like that?" Ragna asked before Ruby spoke up
"But Ragna . . . ." Ruby said before Ragna got angry
"THE HELL WITH THE LAST QUESTION! WHY DID NU HAVE TO ENDURE SOMETHING LIKE THAT! WHY IS HAKUMEN MY BROTHER FROM THE FUTURE! HOW THE HELL AM I HALF-HUMAN! HOW THE HELL DID NU END UP WITH THAT BASTARD TERUMI! HOW IS IT THAT THE MURAKUMO LABS RUINED MY LIFE!" Ragna yelled causing Ruby to pat his back in an effort to console him
"I understand your concerns, unfortunately I cannot answer your questions further. Not because you ran out of questions. Because the power from earlier is preventing me from looking into that specific individual further. Thus I was only able to see up to the point where she destroyed the lab she was in. I have told you all I could, but anything further than that will require your third question." Jinn explained before she disappeared. Once the spirit of the lamp disappeared. Everyone looked at Ragna with a worried look. Before anyone did anything. Maria approached Ragna and helped him up before speaking.
"We have to get moving, it'll be dark soon and I'll be damned if I've lived this long only to die in the cold. We'll follow the trail since trails usually lead somewhere." Maria told the group.
"Lady I don't know who you think you are but . . . ." Yang said before Bang interrupted
"Yang, you need to show some respect to our elders and she's only trying to help." Bang told Yang which aggravated her
"Didn't you pay attention to anything we've learned? What right does she have to tell us what to do?" Yang argued
"What good is being angry at people who's only trying to help will do for us?" Bang responded before Maria slammed her cane down and got everyone's attention.
"ENOUGH!" Maria yelled getting everyone's attention before she spoke further
"I know your all upset at what we've learned. But since your all aspiring to be Huntsman and Huntresses. I would think you would know the importance of discussing thing at an appropriate time and place. Instead of the wilderness where the Grimm can easily find us. Frankly I'm still having a hard time coming to grips with what I've seen. Especially with how a poor little girl was tortured and experimented on for years. Along with the fact that your friend is half-human. But it's important to keep a level head and discuss these things where it's safe. Instead of bickering like children with a temper tantrum. If all of you are our future protectors. Then as you are right now, we're screwed from the start. Now let's get going." Maria explained to the group causing Ruby to speak up
"She's right, we need to get going." Ruby said as everyone gathered what they could and walked the trail that Maria pointed to. As everyone was leaving, Ruby found Ozpin's staff handle and gave it to Oscar, while seeing his crestfallen look.
"I'm just going to be another one of his lives, am I?" Oscar asked in a sad tone
"No Oscar, you are your own person. You must never . . . ." Ruby said before Qrow interrupted her
"Don't lie to him Ruby, you know we're better than that." Qrow said as he walked by while drinking. After hearing Qrow, Ruby looked at Ragna and saw that he is still kneeled over. Once she saw this, she decided to go to him to try and comfort him.
"Ragna, I know your hurt and angry but . . . ." Ruby said before Ragna decided to stand up
"You don't know what it's like to be me right now. So unless you can take my place for the last 8 months. I don't want to hear it." Ragna said as he walked away and went ahead of everyone
"Don't take it personally Ruby. He's just dealing with a lot right now." Bang told Ruby
"I know, processing all of this is going to be tough for all of us." Ruby said in a concerned tone before the group left
(Ironwood's Office)
Anger and worry consumed the General's mind as he stared out the window while observing the Kingdom of Atlas. Every second of looking at the Kingdom is a constant reminder of his duties and the knowledge of the weight of his decisions. Yet as he is worried about his decisions. He is also angry at the seemingly endless source of his headaches that is not making things easier in terms of being able to deal with the problem. First is the slow and steady progress on the Amity Project. The process of gathering the Dust needed is taking a great deal of time. Adding to the frustration is the need to maintain the secrecy of the project.
General Ironwood knows that sooner or later Salem will make plans for Atlas. He's also aware of the fact that Salem's greatest weapon is her secrecy. As long as she utilizes the fact that nobody knows the truth of her existence. Then she will be able to act as she pleases, which will have severe repercussions for the world in the long run. Though if the secrecy of her existence is taken away. Then she will have limited options and it will be much easier to unite the Kingdoms of Remnant against her. Though if the Amity Project is jeopardized and those that are untrustworthy interferes with the project. Then all the work and sacrifices done to bring life to the project will be for nothing. Especially since he also has to deal with the growing unrest from the City of Mantle. Having two seats on the Council does give him the authority to do what's needed for Atlas. But if the wrong person takes the vacant seat with the upcoming election and refuses to work with him or understand his actions. Then the fight against Salem will be much harder.
Another source of frustration and worry is everything he learned from Jubei and the situation with Tenjo. Learning that a good portion of Remnant's history is filled with lies regarding the Black Beast and the Six Heroes is already bad enough. But the fact that Terumi stands to be a bigger threat than Salem. Makes him a dangerous wildcard that unfortunately has to be held off until further notice.
Then there is the entire situation with Tenjo and many of her long-term plans. Ronin-Gai has always been known to have a good deal of unique resources. Such as specialized dust that has functions similar to a semblance. Also many of there natural resources have a moderate amount of dust within them as if it's been naturally ingrained. If given enough time, then Ronin-Gai could have advancements that could match the Kingdom of Atlas if not surpass it. Which made the possibility of Ronin-Gai becoming a Kingdom a very real one.
General Ironwood made numerous attempts to establish some form of treaty or alliance with Tenjo only for each attempt to end in failure. Though much of this was easily accepted since the General understood that Tenjo needs to do what's needed for the sake of her home. Yet there were several occurrences that made General Ironwood cautious of the mysterious leader. For starters, it is a known fact among the councils of various Kingdoms that Tenjo is aggressively acquiring and expanding territory. This isn't a problem, especially since all of this has been done legally and the Council can't legally oppose the actions. Yet the tipping point is the weapon that Tenjo owns that can destroy a Kingdom.
Atlas is a known military and technological powerhouse but the Kingdom has nothing that can easily destroy a Kingdom. Yet if Tenjo truly does have a weapon that is capable of such destruction. Then that makes her extremely dangerous, especially since such a weapon has been kept a secret. Ironwood knows that if such a weapon exists, then it could be invaluable in the fight against the Grimm and especially Salem. With the numerous requests made to inspect Ronin-Gai being consistently denied. This presents the very strong possibility that Tenjo truly does have such a weapon.
With the mounting problems that the General faces from multiple sides. He is forced to acknowledge the possibility that he may have to take extremes measures if he is to have a chance to protect both Atlas and the world. He is fully aware that the people of Mantle hate him for the actions he's taking with both marshal law and things he's done for the Amity Project. But if nothing is done, then everyone will be dead and everything will be for nothing. The General is prepared to do whatever it takes to protect the people from the threats of the world. If being hated by countless people is the cost, he needs to pay to protect them. Then he will gladly bare it if it means keeping them safe.
"Sir." Winter said after arriving in the office and getting the General out of his train of thought.
"Winter, I'm glad you were able to make it. Has there been any updates regarding Jubei?" General Ironwood asked
"He's settling into things without a fuss. Though making sure nobody leaks his presence here does present its own set of challenges." Winter told Ironwood
"I know it's a lot to ask, but with Jubei's detailed knowledge of the events with the Black Beast. As well as his legendary set of skills, then it's imperative that he stays hidden. This will prevent potential problems in the long run. Especially since the general public is still mistrustful of the Council. So keeping him out of sight will prevent problems in the long run. At least until we've regained good standing with the public." General Ironwood told Winter
"Which makes the Amity project all the more crucial for the future of the Kingdom." Winter told the General
"I wouldn't have called you here simply for an update regarding Jubei. The reason I called you here is regards to a situation that will require your support. But I want you to know that you are free to say no." General Ironwood told Winter
"Sir, you have done more for me than my own father. You haven't given me a reason to doubt or question your judgement." Winter told the General
"Thank you Winter, even though there have been many people who heavily criticize my actions. It's nice to know that there are people who are willing to stay loyal to me. But also tell me no when it's necessary. Which is what makes what I have to tell you very difficult and it involves the Winter Maiden." General Ironwood told Winter before he started to explain
"The situation with Tenjo is becoming more stressful with each passing moment. She refuses to allow an inspection and if the information of her having a weapon that can destroy a Kingdom. Then we need to know for certain what her agenda is. Especially since she plans to establish the 5th Kingdom Ikaruga." General Ironwood told Winter
"Sir, with all due respect do you really want to take what Captain Hazama said at face value? I know his info has always been good, but there is something about him that reminds me of a snake. Especially since we know absolutely nothing about him before becoming the Head of the Intelligence department." Winter explained her concerns to the General
"In most cases I would take what he said with a grain of salt. But with his track record of consistently good intel plus the information he gathers for us which proved invaluable to us. I am inclined to believe him, though I haven't told him everything, such as the Amity Project. However, a lot of the secrecy regarding Tenjo, plus many of her public yet legal activities such as the territory expansions, this is too big to ignore. The inspection is a chance to not only put my worries to rest, but also give me an opportunity to form an alliance with Tenjo, Ronin-Gai, and its resources. But the very consistent denials heavily implies that she truly is hiding something and with the threat of Salem, I'm afraid I might have to take drastic actions." General Ironwood explained to Winter
"I understand, if it is true then it will be a problem in the long-run." Winter responded in an agreeing tone
"Then there is the wildcard threat of Terumi. Salem is already bad enough, especially since she will make her way to here to Atlas sooner or later. But Terumi betrayed the Heroes and is still out there. With nobody knowing what it is he's after. He was right there at Beacon and none of us was able to capture him and he's on par with Jubei who is the strongest Huntsman in the world. But if we had a powerful individual on our side. Then it would turn the tides in our favor." General Ironwood explained
"Sir?" Qinter asked in a questioning tone
"Would you say that you've established a strong bond with Fria?" The General asked Winer
"Yes sir, at least in my opinion." Winter answered
"I know that you've taken great care of Fria. But with everything that's happening and the things that's out there. I'm afraid that the timeline for your inheritance has been moved up. But if you feel uncomfortable with this, then you are free to stick to the original plan." General Ironwood told Winter
"How soon do you want me to inherit the role of Winter Maiden?" Winter asked in a tone that's a mix of cautious and worry
"really soon, as things stand in days." The General said which visibly surprised Winter
"But understand, you are free to say no. I will not hold it against you in any way and I will understand." General Ironwood told Winter causing her to think for a moment.
The seconds felt like hours as Winter thought about her answer to the proposal. On one hand, Winter knew that this was going to happen. Especially since she was prepared inherit the title of Maiden and all the responsibilities that will come with it. Yet for all of this to be done so soon feels cruel. Especially since there is no hard evidence that Tenjo does have a weapon that can destroy a Kingdom. Yet if this is true in any way, then it will make Tenjo and by extension Ronin-Gai extremely dangerous.
Then there is Terumi, she is fully aware of how strong Terumi is and if he is as strong as she was told. Then they need to take every possible measure to bring him down. Adding to that, the Mad Dog Azrael is still roaming Remnant. With the many reports of his strength and that nobody knows where he is, then every measure will have to be taken to ensure the survival of Atlas and by extension the world. No matter how painful it will be. A feeling that Winter knows the General can relate to. Especially since his title and his duties weigh heavily on him.
"I will need 2 days. It will give me enough time to say goodbye." Winter told General Ironwood
"Thank you Winter, and I'm sorry for this. More than you can possibly imagine." General Ironwood told Winter before she left
"I know, but I trust you." Winter muttered before she left
(? ? ?)
Emerald spent time looking out to the horizons while thinking about everything. The loss of Cinder still hurts her immensely, but now she has a new target for her revenge. Ever since the beginning, she knew that Nu was unstable and it would cause problems sooner or later. Yet to be told to basically let it go makes her sick. As she was thinking about everything, Mercury was diligently training as if nothing was wrong. Which was slowly getting on her nerves.
"Can I ask you something?" Emerald asked Mercury as he was training
"Your gonna ask anyway, so just ask already." Mercury told Emerald
"What do you think about Nu killing Cinder?" Emerald asked
"That's it, there's nothing to think about really. Cinder tried to act tough. But she fought and lost to someone tougher, it's as simple as that." Mercury answered which surprised Emerald
"But Nu can't just get away with killing her. There are tons of ways she could have . . . ." Emerald started saying before Mercury interrupted her
"I get that you're grieving and all. But Nu killing Cinder, it just makes sense when you think about it." Mercury said which angered Emerald
"Makes sense?" Emerald said in a surprised tone
"Yeah, it's just like how I joined up with you guys. All my life my father trained me to be a killer, an assassin like him. Then after I killed him, you guys showed up. It's like it was always meant to be." Mercury answered before he went back to training
"But don't you owe any loyalty to Cinder then? I know that there is something you want out of this. But Nu can't do as she pleases and think that she can get away from this." Emerald vented to Mercury
"I know what this is about, if you want to revenge against Nu. Then you're on your own, just don't be surprised when she kills you." Mercury told Emerald which angered her even further
"Cinder was my only family, she taught me everything and took care of me. But without her here, I don't know if what we're doing is the right thing anymore." Emerald said before Mercury spoke up
"Stop kidding yourself." Mercury bluntly told Emerald before he spoke further
"Cinder never cared about any of us. I admit she kept us informed, but at the end of the day. We were nothing but tools for her and her plans. She just treated you nice to keep you on a leash. I mean be realistic, your able to conjure powerful illusions, who wouldn't want to use you. Even Ragna's mommy could see that she didn't care about us." Mercury said which angered Emerald
"YOU CAN'T MEAN THAT!" Emerald angrily yelled
"It's the truth, Relius is sick and twisted, especially if what he did to his wife and daughter is true. Which we learned from his own son. But he made his opinion about us known clear as day. Terumi is more of a monster than the Grimm but he hasn't told us any lies and has been truthful about everything. Though he's not above leaving certain details out. Salem has made it clear that if we win this, we will be top dogs in her new world. The only one who's lying to herself is you. Cinder never cared about us and the sooner you get that the better." Mercury explained causing Emerald to angrily throw a punch that Mercury was able to dodge with ease. After the punch was dodged, Mercury proceeded to block the punches as he started to speak
"I'm sorry you didn't have a mommy who loved you. But I had a father who hated me. Everyday of training was a beating and when I unlocked my he stole it with his." Mercury said before he started to attack Emerald with her barely able to block
"He said I could get it back when I got strong. I worked harder than anyone else, and I still never got it back. Which makes me glad, I've killed that smug bastard. I've had to push myself further than anyone else to get to where I am. You may not like it here without Cinder, but I am right where I belong. As for Nu, I've heard she had it worse than either of us." Mercury said before he kicked Emerald away
"I've heard that she came from the Murakumo Labs, experimented on her entire life and never knew an ounce of happiness. The world gave her nothing but pain and cruelty, so it makes sense that her mind is what it is. But it wasn't Nu that killed Cinder. What killed Cinder, was her own arrogant bullshit." Mercury stated which angered Emerald further before he spoke further
"Ragna was prepared to kill Cinder when she threatened his family. You also saw the shape she was in when she was brought back from the tower. You even saw how determined Ragna was to kill Cinder back at Haven. All because Cinder smugly threatened his family. You even saw how she was prepared to kill Nu if it meant a chance to kill Ragna. Sooner or later, Cinder's obsession with power and her arrogance would have gotten her killed. So I'm not surprised that things went down the way they did. By the way, good job threatening the sister of the Beast of Remnant which put you on his radar. The next time you do something stupid, could you give me a heads up so I can take a picture. So that way, I can have photo proof that you're acting like Cinder." Mercury explained causing someone to clap their hands and get their attention. When they saw who was clapping, they realize that it was Azrael and it looks like he heard the whole thing
"How much did you hear Azrael?" Mercury asked
"The whole thing, even the parts about how your daddy took your semblance and never gave it back. Nice to see your not all mopey about it, I would've been disappointed if you were." Azrael said which angered Mercury
"You don't know a damn thing about me Azrael. So why don't you fu . . ." Mercury said as he angrily kicked Azrael. Only for the large man to parry the kick and it caused Mercury to fall. Once he was down, Azrael put his foot on Mercury's chest and pinned him down.
"Hey!" Emerald yelled in protest before Azrael spoke
"Your angry at the world, good. Which means you have something to drive you and strengthen you. You have the right attitude but you need a conviction that you can focus on." Azrael told Mercury
"What do you mean?" Mercury sked
"When the world gives you pain and cruelty, you need to embrace it and use it as a source of strength. But right now your just going with the flow. Instead you should make your mark and embrace your strength." Azrael told Mercury
"Then what is your goal?" Mercury asked
"To embrace my strength, I live for the battle and the stronger the opponent. The more excited I get, because I get to live the greatest existence of all. The endless thrill of a worthy opponent. I've been promised as much and I've fought some worthwhile people. Like Jubei for example and if it wasn't for someone interfering then the fight would have lasted longer. Also, I know your father took your semblance. But instead of being mad, you should be grateful." Azrael said as he took his foot off of Mercury's chest and helped him up
"Why should I be grateful for what he did to me?" Mercury angrily asked
"Do you know how many people allow their semblance to define who they are? Or better yet, become over reliant on the capabilities of their semblance to a point where it becomes a crutch? The answer is too many people and it is sickening. I've seen you fight and I can assure you, in a few years. You can be considered a worthwhile fight. Like that comic book hero I read a few years ago." Azrael explained to Mercury
"Says the man who is known as the infamous Mad Dog. Your strength is considered legendary among Remnant." Emerald told Azrael
"My semblance has nothing to do with my strength. I just focused on building my strength and power and eventually I became really strong. Though the cost is that the fights ended too quickly, which is why I've put these limiters on my body. The only thing my semblance does is that it weeds out the people aren't willing to fight. I can embrace my strength, so why can't you?" Azrael told the two
"What are you doing here?" Mercury asked
"I'm going to be benched for a while. Terumi told the boss the plans and a few people will make there way to Atlas. Relius, and Dr. Watts will be sent. Tyrion and Nu will meet up with them and they will proceed with the plan. I've been given a few details of the plan and let's just say that from everything I know so far. Atlas will be in for a true reckoning. Which will be very satisfying for me since Atlas and Sector 7 are the reason I was in the icy prison. So I look forward to hilling the General." Azrael told the two
"Would you mind telling us this grand plan?" Mercury asked
"You'll know when it's time for you to know. Remember, your still under punishment for allowing Cinder to screw up the plan. So take this time to figure yourselves out. But remember, if you get in the way of my goals. Then you will see how much of a Mad Dog I can be. Because I haven't released all of my seals yet." Azrael told the two causing Emerald and Mercury to think about a lot of things.
(The Deserted farm)
The large group spent a lot of time traveling the trail hoping to get to a rest spot. Unfortunately, the tension between all of them, never truly died down and has only been at best dormant among themselves. Which comes as no surprise due to everything that was learned earlier. Both Ruby and Bang are hopeful that once the group are able to find a place to rest. Then the tension will start to die down.
"I thought trails usually lead somewhere?" Yang sarcastically asked
"Don't you have something better to do than to be rude to a defenseless old lady?" Maria asked before all of them noticed several houses at a distance. Upon seeing this, they noticed a sign that has the name of where they are.
"Brunswick Farms, at least some good came out of this." Blake commented
"It looks abandoned." Weiss said as she looked around
"An abandoned farm or stranded in the woods. At least we'll have a roof over our heads and some protection from the cold." Ruby told Weiss
"We'll also be able to find some needed supplies. It might not be much, but this is essential to our survival. Though if someone is here, they might be willing to help us or tell us what happened here." Bang said adding to Ruby's statement before Ragna walked past them
"Let's just get out of the damn cold." Ragna said as he walked into the farm and approached one of the buildings. Once he did so, he kicked the door open and entered with a lot of anger in his movements.
"He's right, let's get inside, we're not hearing anyone yell so that probably means nobody is home." Qrow said before they entered the house.
(Inside the House)
Once everyone entered the house, they saw that nobody was around and Ragna was deeper into the house. Everything looked strange to the group but they decided to just settle into the house before discussing anything. Because their own strength has been exhausted and that they needed to rest. Once they secured the house, they did a quick look around the house and decided to make a plan for the moment.
"I saw a chimney before we came in, we can get a fire started." Blake said to the group
"I will look for some supplies, I might find something we can all use." Bang said before him and Weiss searched the house. Ruby decided to take a better look at a picture and when she saw the various pictures of the people that lived in the house. Ruby continued to feel uneasy.
"What do you think?" Yang asked
"This doesn't feel right, I've seen villages that looked destroyed or incomplete. But this place looks fine. So it doesn't make sense that nobody is here." Ruby told her sister
"Maybe . . . . ." Yang said before they all heard Weiss yell before they all went to where Weiss was at. Once they arrived, they all saw two people in bed but they were nothing more than husks. The sight of this made everyone feel uneasy and certain that there was more to the farm than they thought
(Moments Later at the Fireplace)
"It's like this in every house and in every bed. They all just went to sleep and never woke up." Qrow told the group
"Doesn't that mean it's too dangerous for us to be here?" Oscar asked in a concerned tone
"We don't have a choice, a snowstorm is coming and if it comes while we're out there. Then we could freeze to death before we get to Argus." Qrow answered
"Then let's make the best of this, since we're going to be here for a while then we should find some supplies." Ruby said before Ragna stood up and left
"Where are you going?" Weiss asked in a concerned tone
"I need to be alone for a bit." Ragna angrily responded before Qrow grabbed his shoulder
"I know you're dealing with a lot, but we need to . . . ." Qrow said before Ragna gave him an intense glare that made everyone nervous
"Finish that sentence and try to stop me." Ragna stated ready for a fight. Once Qrow stepped back, Ragna merely huffed in response
"I thought so, I'll still be nearby." Ragna said before he left
"He's taking the news hard, I think he just needs more time." Ruby said in a soft tone
"I never thought Hakumen would be Ragna's brother, or Jin of all people for that matter. Do you think Hakumen would be willing to help him?" Blake asked in a concerned tone
"Unlikely, Hakumen was determined to kill Ragna. So either he is ruthless or determined to fullfill his duties to the world. Either way, I don't think the family card will mean anything to Hakumen." Bang explained to everyone
"I thought I had family problems, making things worse is that Ragna and his siblings are half human. That's gotta be tough on anyone." Qrow said
"I think what's tough on Ragna is that he is saw in good detail what Nu went through. Which explains why Nu is the way she is. Out of all the kids, Nu is the only one who went through pure hell." Blake told the group her thoughts on the situation
"Well, at least we know that Noel is their sister. That's gotta be cool in its own way." Ruby optimistically said
"You won't say that when you eat her cooking." Weiss commented in a low tone.
As the group was talking, Yang spent the entire time looking at her mechanical arm. As she was looking at it, she found herself having mixed feelings about Nu. On one hand, seeing what Nu went through made Yang understand why Ragna is determined to help her. Especially since she understands what happened that caused her mind to be broken. Though on the other hand, Yang cannot ignore everything that Nu has done. Including but not limited to cutting off her arm. Which honestly speaking is something that Yang hasn't fully forgiven Nu for. After looking at her arm for a bit longer, Yang proceeded to leave the house.
"I won't go far." Yang said before she left the house
"Where do you think she's going?" Weiss asked in a concerned tone
"I have a good idea, I'm going to look around a bit more. Do not get separated and try to stick together." Qrow said before he left the house himself
(The Tool shed)
It didn't take Yang too long to find where Ragna went to. The reason is because Yang was able to see a trail that led to the shed and Yang followed it. Once she did, she entered and saw Ragna sitting on the ground with a thoughtful look on his face. When she looked around further, Yang saw that there were several carts that will be useful for Bumblebee when taking everyone to the City of Argus. Right now, they all need to survive the upcoming snowstorm. Though right now, Yang is more concerned with Ragna's state of being.
"I thought I made it clear that I wanted to be left alone." Ragna angrily told Yang
"You did, but you still owe me for this." Yang said as she showed him the mechanical arm. After she did, she sat down beside Ragna and kept her mechanical arm raised.
"I said the same thing to Ruby after everything happened at Beacon. But the more I thought about it, the more I realized that I was just speaking with my pain and anger. At the heart of it, I didn't really mean it. Makoto sticking by me during those months did a lot of good. Which makes me think you need someone with you now." Yang explained to Ragna causing him to take a quick breath
"I hate the Murakumo Labs for what they did to Nu. But those damn labs are the reason that I'm alive. There's a twisted irony in that, especially since I'm technically not human." Ragna told Yang
"I thought I was prepared for everything when I heard about Salem from Ozpin. But what the lamp revealed about the past. Along with what we've learned about you and your origins and family. That's a doozy that none of us could have predicted." Yang told Ragna
"At least this explains why fighting that masked freak felt so familiar. There are a lot of differences but there is no mistaking it. The way Hakumen fights is too similar to Jin's. Though I don't think knowing that will help me. Since I survived by luck and I doubt it will go the same way a second time." Ragna explained to Yang
"Well at least we know that Noel is your sister. That has to be cool to know right?" Yang asked before Ragna
"Assuming I don't screw this one up." Ragna answered
"I'm sorry for what I said back at the house." Yang said
"You were right to be angry, I did mess things up. But I never thought I would find myself questioning my own humanity. All the choices I made, I did because I believed in what I was doing. But now that I'm not a human. That's a tough fact to stomach and I don't know how to feel about that. Especially since I have to tell my other siblings this, which unfortunately includes Jin." Ragna said causing Yang to have a quick idea
"Your probably right, I supposed Sister Celica was too stupid to see that she made a mistake." Yang said getting a visible reaction from Ragna
"Now hold on a second. . . ." Ragna said before Yang continued
"I mean, with as often as she gets lost, she might have been killed by the Murakumo Labs Scientists sooner or later." Yang continued which angered Ragna further
"SHUT UP OR ELSE . . . ." Ragna warned before Yang kept talking
"Maybe Celica should have been in those labs instead of . . . ." Yang said before Ragna grabbed her and slammed her to the wall
"YOU BETTER WATCH WHAT YOU SAY YANG! SHE MAY NOT BE MY MOTHER BY BLOOD BUT IF ANYONE HURTS HER I WILL KILL THEM!" Ragna yelled causing Yang to make a smirk
"Relax Ragna, I didn't mean it. I just said that to get a rise out of you so you can prove my point." Yang told Ragna before he let go of her before she continued
"You don't have to be a human to love someone who raised and took care of you. That love you have for Sister Celica, that is real, something no lab can replicate. We don't get to choose our origins, but we choose how we live. Your origins are messed up, but that doesn't mean you get to forget about what you believe in. I was so obsessed with my origins that it almost got Ruby killed and I was lucky that Qrow saved us from my stupidity. At least you did the things you did with good intentions. So don't let the truth of your origins break your spirit. Otherwise, instead of provoking you, I will have to punch you." Yang explained with a side smile
"If that happens, don't hold back." Ragna told Yang
"No problem." Yang responded
"Also, thanks but don't say that about Sister Celica again." Ragna warned
"Alright." Yang said before she made her way out. Before she went far, Ragna called for her
"Yang!" Ragna said getting Yang's attention before he spoke further
"Where do you stand with Nu?" Ragna asked causing Yang to have a thoughtful moment while looking at her arm
"I now know why she is the way she is. I even understand why your determined to help her. But to be honest, I conflicted on how I want to deal with her. Her life in the labs was a living hell. But after being freed, she killed people helping Salem and Terumi and she cut off my arm. I understand Nu a bit more, but I conflicted on whether or not to help her or bring her in. Learning everything about her just complicates things, especially since this proves that she is your sister." Yang explained to Ragna
"Fair enough, I can't force you to feel a certain way. But I hope that our feelings regarding how to handle Nu. Doesn't force us to fight each other again." Ragna stated to Yang
"I feel the same way, but instead of discussing it. It'll be better if we cross that bridge when we get to it." Yang said before she left the shed leaving Ragna alone
"How can I save Nu, if I'm not even a human?" Ragna asked himself in a low tone
(The Abandoned House)
The group spent time in the house getting as much rest as they could before they could go and look for more supplies. Maria and Oscar found themselves by the made fire. While Ruby and the rest were thinking about everything they learned. As they were in thought, Blake has a look that is of a sudden realization.
"Ruby, do you think it's possible that Terumi found Nu, not long after the lab was destroyed?" Blake asked causing everyone to look at her with various shocked expressions
"Think about it, when you asked Terumi, the lamp made it clear that she couldn't learn about him. Yet we were able to learn a lot about Ragna and his family. We've even learned about Professor Ozpin's various past lives. But she stopped at the point when Nu destroyed the lab. You have to admit, that is a strange point to stop on." Blake briefly explained to the group causing all of them to think about things further before realizing that everything Blake said made a lot of sense.
"Not to mention something else she said. The Relic said that a power equal to its creator is limiting its power. Which is the reason we can't learn anything about Terumi. The creator of the Relic is the Brother of Light who has the powers of a god. I hate to say this, but do you think it's possible that Terumi has the powers of a god or at the very least working with one. Because if that's true, then we have a lot more to worry about." Weiss explained further causing Ruby to have a look on her face that's deep in thought
"Which makes me wonder, did Terumi kill mom before or after finding Nu. I truly hope that Nu had nothing to do with Terumi killing mom." Ruby thought to herself
How are you feeling about this? Regarding everything we've learned about Ozpin, Salem, and Ragna?" Bang asked in a concerned tone getting Ruby
"It feels like we were just on a wild goose chase this entire time. We're risking our lives for him and got ourselves involved into something big. So for it to be all pointless and for him to not tell us how far things go. How could he do this to us?" Blake said making her frustration clear in her tone
"Bang, I know that all of us were mad. But why did you argue against Ragna and uncle Qrow?" Ruby asked in a curious tone
"Because even though our rage is justified, it shouldn't cloud our judgement. It is very frustrating that he kept such important details from us. But when we decided to be part of his mission and follow him. Then it's inevitable that some stuff were to be kept secret." Bang explained to Ruby
"But we're trusting him with our lives. The least he could do is be honest with us." Weiss told Bang
"True, but when you think about the entirety of the situation, try to look at it from his point of view. He is forced to fight someone he once loved. Adding to that, in the fight against her, he lost his four daughters and has no proper way to stop her. All while trying to deal with the fact that countless innocent lives were lost. Because of the brother of Darkness merciless nature and Salem's manipulation. I understand that we needed to know what we were getting ourselves into. But I have the feeling that we learned this at the cost of hurting an individual who is already in pain." Bang explained to the three of them
"I see what you're saying Bang, but Salem not being able to die is something that he shouldn't have kept from us." Blake told Bang
"Blake, allow me to ask you a question that I suggest you think about. We have fought by your side for months. So how would you have felt that we learned that you were a Faunus and of your connection to the White Fang. The same way we learned what else Professor Ozpin was hiding from us? Would you have told us eventually if the events at the docks and the argument never happened?" Bang asked causing Blake to think for a moment before she spoke up
"I . . . see your point." Blake said as her cat ears were slightly down
"Trust is essential for working together, I understand that very well. Especially with everything we're dealing with. However, we need to look at why he kept this from us. Otherwise, we will repeat the mistakes that has gotten Professor Lionheart killed." Bang told everyone
"I see what you're saying, and this is a lot to think about. But Professor Ozpin is not the only thing we have to think about." Ruby responded
"I know, when Ruby asked about Ragna. I didn't think we would learn as much as we did. Such as the full experience of what Nu endured in the Murakumo Labs. What we've learned about his parents, not to mention last but not least, what we've learned about Hakumen." Weiss said causing Ruby to have a slightly guilty look. A brief second later, Yang entered the abandoned house and sat down with the group
"How did things go with Ragna sis?" Ruby asked in a concerned tone
"We just talked for a bit, hopefully it'll help him out of his funk at least until we can figure this stuff out. For now it'll be best if he's left alone." Yang said as she looked out the window with a concerned look. A brief second later, Ruby perked up when she noticed something in the air.
"I smell something, it smells a bit different." Ruby said before Qrow entered
"Someone set up a lot of food outside." Qrow said before he led everyone out
"It all smells more like . . . FOOD!" Ruby excitedly said as she looked further and saw that a lot of food has been set up. At the sight of this, Ruby excitedly ran out the house with her semblance and got to the prepared food with everyone else following suit. When they all got closer, they see that the food was set up and prepared. Along with various bottles of water.
"Who would set up all this food in the middle of an Abandoned Village like this? Especially with the snowstorm being a few hours away. I hope whoever did this knows what they're doing." Weiss said voicing her thoughts to everyone
"Of course I know what I'm doing. I wanted this to be a surprise but I guess I should have been quicker with the set up." A male voice said causing everyone to look at the source. When they saw who spoke. Both Ruby and Bang shared a look that had great excitement
"AMANE!" Both Ruby and Bang yelled as they ran to hug Amane happy to see him again
"It's good to see you all again." Amane happily told the two
"I'm happy to see you too Amane. But how did you know that we were here?" Weiss asked in a concerned tone
"We were doing a few missions from the city of Argus and to my regret we got a bit lost. We came across this abandoned Village and when I saw that you were here. I decided to set this up and wanted to surprise you all. Since we haven't seen each other in so long." Amane explained to Weiss
"Who's travelling with you Amane?" Yang asked before a voice spoke up
"Amane, I patrolled the area before I got more fire wood. There's no Grimm around but we shouldn't stay any longer than we need to." A male voice said getting everyone's attention
"Here he is right now, I assume most of you remember him." Amane said introducing his travel companion
"You." Blake said with a look and tone that is a mix of surprise and anger
"I can't believe it, I haven't seen you since Beacon Cardin." Ruby said as she saw Cardin with more supplies
"Hey everyone, I supposed this is long time no see." Cardin commented
"A few things happened in Vale that's honestly a long story. So Cardin has been traveling with me for a while." Amane said before Ragna came outside and saw Cardin. It didn't take him long to figure out what's going on and approached Cardin. Nobody knew what to expect, but they all decided to mentally be on guard in case things got intense. Before anyone did anything, Ragna spoke
"My family means a lot more to me than most people know. I've heard that you helped them when a lot of people were turning against them. You even defended and protected them from your own team." Ragna briefly explained
"I did." Cardin said while on guard before Ragna continued
"It's no secret that there's been a lot of problems between us. But the fact that you helped my family is something I'll appreciate more than you'll understand. You will have no more problems from me and consider the bad blood between us squashed." Ragna said as he reached out his hands hoping for a handshake
"Thanks, consider it all squashed." Cardin said returning the handshake
"That was pleasant for all of us, now let's eat before this nasty snowstorm comes and ruin everything. Including my wonderful new outfit and weapons." Amane said with most of the group happily agreeing
"Yes, and there is so much to tell you." Bang excitedly told Amane, happy to see his teammate again
"There's a lot I want to tell you too, especially over such yummy food and cookies." Ruby told Amane
"It's good your all hungry, because we've brought a lot of food and I've picked up a huge appetite and . . . ." Cardin said before he noticed Blake and the two shared eye contact
Once Blake saw Cardin, she gave him an intense glare as she remembered everything he's done in Beacon. Both to some of the students him and his team bullied and to the many Faunus him and his team bullied relentlessly. Cardin endured the glare for a moment but quickly noticed Blake's cat ears and came to a major realization after thinking about everything.
"Your not fooling anyone Cardin." Blake stated to Cardin
"You're a Faunus, that explains everything." Cardin said returning the glare
"Oh no." Ruby said dreading the next few moments
(A/N)
To prevent a potential misunderstanding, Yang said what she said about Sister Celica because she knows it'll provoke Ragna and help get her point across that feelings of love is not exclusive and he shouldn't be bothered about his origins. She didn't mean it but she did need to provoke him for a bit. The plan did help but Ragna is going to need more time to process what he's learned.
There are several reasons I've brought Cardin back. One of the biggest reasons is because of Blake's character arc. I wanted to throw my hat in the ring for the redeemed bully and also saw this as a chance to have Blake's character arc come full circle. Since in Volume 1, Blake pointed Cardin out as the poster boy for Faunus bullying and since Cardin has gotten some character bashing in fanfiction and a bit in canon. I wanted to try a different approach while also conclude Blake's character arc in the story.
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