RWBY: Bonds Between Hearts
Chapter 22: Rest after the Storm
WARNING: I own none of these characters sides from my OC(s). All rights go to their respective owners and properties.
This is nothing more than, well a fanfic, a story made up by a fan for entertainment and knowledge.
Everything in this fic is not canon and is only meant to give the audience a new idea of the works of each of the franchises in this story.
So please support me, my work and have some fun. Now enjoy the story. ^w^
Within Ozpin's office, the older man sat at his desk. People may have felt fear when the walls came up, it didn't separate the four kingdoms. Especially when Evol admitted a mere temporary defeat, warning the world the walls was just the start of his biggest plan for them.
… the dreadful feeling told him Evol allowed them to savor their victory. To savor it until he crushes it.
The positivity was all around as the duo were labeled as heroes. Alas Cody had to recover in the hospital upon several broken ribs, a dislocated arm, and possible other fractures given the beating Evol gave him.
He needed to ask Cody for his assistance. If he and Vernage were able to stop Evol, surely he can earn their support to stop Sal-
The elevator suddenly dinged, earning his attention. The doors slid open and out walked not Lily but Vernage. Her emerald eyes glimmered with nobility and magic, her aura screamed of her experience of battle. Evidence being her intensive fight against Evol.
His mind racing from not only that fight, nor the young boy unlocking his magic. But that of Vernage who calmly strided the floors of his office. Her eyes were on full display to detect any lies and deceit, only to hear the truth.
It was pointless to lie on his introduction. "Vernage… it's… been awhile."
"That it has… Ozma." She created a seat and sat down. Her posture was elegant and her hands gently placed together on her lap.
"Ozma the Hero, it is time we talk… About you." Vernage informed.
Ozpin flinched upon hearing this. While he knew that Vernage was of the age of gods, like he and Salem were. He still was surprised to know her knowledge if she knew his past self. But he took a deep breath before looking to the maiden.
"Seems you're already displeased by me." Ozpin noted to her.
"I am not blind nor deaf to see the cause of our changed world, Ozma." The royal member of Eden hissed.
"Trust me… I'm already fully aware of the reason for all of this."
"Do tell? How the gods abandoned humanity because of the source of mistakes."
"Are you really here to chastise me for falling in love? Isn't that what makes us human?"
"No, what I am disappointed in is your lack of movement to even stop your former beloved. Or… is it because you still have what little emotions you have for her?"
Ozpin remained silent from this. Truly, Vernage knew how to see past any walls within someone, as if that was her Semblance.
"Let me tell you very clearly what I want to say. Especially to you, Ozma. Since our time, when the Brothers crawled our land we were blessed by their gifts." She started. "But when Evol came to the fold, I begged to the Light that he would do something but you know what both did? Nothing. Nothing but curiosity which gradually made me lose my faith in them. My own people too lost faith in the brothers that we as a kingdom chose to act on our own behalf. I even put a spell to my own soul that if I die, I will be reborn as an infant with a new mother. Live, die, a cycle of such suffering that I watched the darkness in humanity's hearts swell like a damn tumor. I learned various things as I grew again and again. I never lied to the families who birthed me. I fought because Evol is an imminent threat to all mankind. You Ozma hardly made any move whereas she has countless times."
"You don't think I tried that?" Ozpin frowned. "Like you, I too loved and lost many things. At first, I too tried being transparent… But in the end they betrayed or went to Salem on their own accord. I cannot be like that forever."
"Because she is immortal?" Ozpin stiffened. "Ever thought of tearing her limbs, sealing them so they never join? Or create a method as I did to Evol?"
"And how did that go for you with Evol? He still broke free, he still got what he wanted because your spell was breaking down."
"Because us humans have their greed, Ozma." Ozma was silenced. "It was during your age as a Hero humans chose greed over danger. To dig us out and caused their impending doom." She glared. "You have never been honest to those who followed you Ozma. Goodwitch, Qrow, James. How many people did you hide the truth of your battle? How many died because of that?"
"I will do what I believe is necessary to prevail, Vernage… If that must mean I keep lying and holding my secrets? So be it."
"For them? Or for you." Vernage presented what shocked Ozpin. A Scroll. She had been recording the entire conversation but she opened a news article displaying 'Fairy Tales are Real?' . "Evol has already opened the gates of truth. Question is how many more lies you have to make before it festers in your heart that you have no option but to tell the truth?"
Ozpin gripped his cane tightly, his own anger boiling up as he simply wanted the same thing. Yet he is being chastised for what he believes is necessary. He didn't want any of this, he didn't want to keep these secrets either. But with past experiences, he couldn't take another chance, not anymore. He can only trust in himself and the ones he reincarnates as.
"Furthermore you wished for Cody and my little flower to be of use to you because you want a means to not counter Evol. Oh no, you only wish for them because of Salem."
"And would you be any different?! You're also dragging them into this just as much as I am! I always give my host their chance to assist me with my reincarnation! You just forced it onto that girl!" Ozpin snapped, tired of the berating he was being given.
"Who said I was?" Ozpin stopped. "It was Cody's decision to stop Evol because he suffered from them. He wanted nothing more than to stop him. I didn't ask him or request his aid. The same applied to Lily."
"I still give those I believe I can trust, a choice. I never force others into it. And if I must lie to make sure they keep fighting? Then so be it! How does that make me any different from you?!"
"I don't lie nor will I ever for generations like you have for centuries." She stood up, picking up the Scroll upon finishing the recording. "Either tell your comrades the truth or I will." She walked to the elevator. "Now if you excuse me I have to talk to someone else."
"Wait!"
Vernage was gone the moment the doors closed, showing she wanted no more to hear from him. She heard enough to know he can't be trusted thus not wanting to join unless the truth is said. Ozpin slumped against his seat, pressing his forehead against his cane.
"Is it wrong to be scared…?" He muttered to himself, his body shaking. He only wants to stop Salem and now Evol… Why must he keep suffering for this?
XXX
Within the hospital bed, Cody rested with once again, casts and more on his body. He grunted out from attempting to move again, but Yang made sure he stayed put.
"Oh no, mister! I don't care if you want to try again. You're staying put and healing." Yang huffed, annoyed by his tenacity for wanting to continue.
"I know I can get him this time! I just have to try!" Cody responded, about to struggle before Yang puts some pressure on his arm, making the boy freeze up in pain.
"Do it and I will be the one to dislocate it." She warned.
"W-When did you start acting like this?" Cody grunted out.
"Since I basically confessed my feelings to you." Yang huffed, a soft blush on her cheeks.
"… E-Eh?"
"I pecked your cheek, dang it! I practically just told you that I loved you!" The brawler stated, her face more red than before.
"Y-Yang are you… joking?" He yelped when the brawler gripped his shirt.
"Seriously?! Why would I be joking? Ugh! You can be such a jerk, sometimes!" Yang growled, letting go as she stormed out the room with a huff.
"Well… that was… unexpected?" Cody noticed Vernage.
"Vernage…? Is Lily-?"
"She is currently resting, Cody. She deserves such a much needed rest of peace from her endeavors for the day." The maiden raised a hand.
"Fair..." He nodded, understanding. He bit his lip for a moment. "Vernage about Evol…"
"I know you have much to ask given I knew him for a long time." Vernage took a seat and elegantly positioned herself with noble composure.
"So the things Evol kept saying. About the past. Magic. Fairy Tales…?"
"All real. Even such tales hold some form of truth." The moonlight-haired girl confirmed. "I am sure the world right now is going to not end with their discussions…"
"What do you mean?"
"Magic, from what I have seen, is seen as myth but at the same time to know the existence, many would want to have it on their side." She frowned. "You, myself and Lily in extension, and Evol hold magic just as the female Branwen, Ozpin (though in such a small amount), and Salem."
"Maybe it would be best for the world not to know about magic…" Cody grimaced, already able to see the chaos it can bring.
"Evol has opened the dam already. It is no doubt one of his intentions since the announcement of his debut transformation." Her eyes lingered to the reporters trying to enter the hospital but kept away by Atlas officials.
"At least for once, I can thank Ironwood for making sure to keep those vultures out of this…"
"Cody, I must ask you of your choice. I understand you are his bastard son, pardon my words." Cody raised a hand in assurance. "But you wanted nothing more than to see his network and himself fall. What is your decision? I am not asking to recruit you. I am asking what you wish to do on your own?"
"I want to stop him… I want him to regret the day he set foot on Remnant." Cody responded, "Death by our hands or exiled forever? I don't care which… I just want him gone and away from my home. My life. We won't have freedom, real freedom, if he keeps slithering around."
"Then would you like to learn more to the magic you inherited from him?"
"If it can give me a leg up on him? Yeah… I want to learn." Cody answered, his eyes holding fire.
Vernage smiled warmly which made Cody's cheeks tint red slightly before she stood up, patting his head. "Once you recover, I'll gladly teach you. But be advised, to master magic that is from the age of gods is not simple to understand for one of you in this era."
"If I can figure out how to escape Faust on my first attempt? I can figure out how to use magic." Cody smirked playfully.
"Now I see why Lily sees you in warm regards after her defection."
"What did she tell you before she went to sleep?"
"You can be playful… though quite dense and naive."
"Hey! I am not dense!" Vernage stared flatly, pointing to the doorframe behind her, reminding him of his conversation with Yang. "T-That doesn't mean anything…" He turned his head with embarrassment.
"If that is your opinion. I didn't expect men to become like this in this era." She mumbled to herself upon leaving.
"HEEYYY! VERNAGE! GET BACK HERE! I HEARD THAT!" Cody shouted in dismay. "VERNAGE!"
XXX
Pietro was looking over the data that remained from the destroyed Sclash Driver and the obsidian block that used to be the Dragon Jelly. After what had happened from the live feed, he needed to figure out a way to truly unlock the Magma Knuckle and its power problem. He was brought to Vale given recent events especially now that there is the Sky Wall in Eden, its presence still a spectacle to the world.
The young boy needed something strong and powerful to knock Evol not only down, but for good. Yet with every calculation, data input and test he tried working on, it still ended with failure. The Magma Knuckle the good scientist invented, while power, was too advanced to be controlled by their normal means.
Evol truly was an intelligent cosmic lifeform. To match a universal being is not easy as it sounds as to analyze such power can be difficult. Evol was a black hole thus he was an abyss. Dark. Hungry.
Pietro shook his head. If he starts doubting himself now, he can't help them in defeating Evol. There had to be some way, and he won't rest until he figures it out.
It was strange the jelly Evol made solidified the moment he delivered the finisher on the Sclash Driver. From what Pietro could learn when given the schematics for it, it should've kept growing in power for Cody. Yet it seemed to just stall him after Evol was awakened.
Furthermore, the elements that were within the Jelly Bottle, were completely changed from before! As if like a miracle of a deity or transmuted from bronze into gold. It was something science just couldn't replicate or fathom! Blood Technology was really an oddity at its best.
But he must crack this problem and give them something powerful enough to stand in Evol's way. He can't give up! For his daughter, and for the boy he is seeing as a son. He will figure it out!
"Father?" Pietro looked from his tablet, his spectacles noticing Penny peeking from the doorframe. "You have an important visitor!"
"Ah, who is it?"
Penny gestured to the person and Pietro nearly fumbled his device to notice Vernage who was observing the makeshift lab. The maiden who had been fighting Evol for ages and no doubt knew much about his technology due to her past confrontations and utilizing Lily's technomancy Semblance to create a metal being that also became her armor/weapon. The large katana on her back was… by Brothers it was taller than the girl!
"O-Oh! It's you, Miss Vernage!" Pietro gasped, as he wanted to quickly go over and give her credit and his thanks, but his coughing fits came up, making him stop.
The man's coughs suddenly lessened and noticed Vernage's hand was gleaming green. After the fits ended, Pietro took a deep breath. "My thanks."
"Age has its repercussions."
"True, but it is nature. Nothing can't last forever." Pietro smiled softly.
"That it is…" Vernage took a deep breath. "I was told from Cody you created the Sclash Driver when Evol sent you his blueprint?"
"Yes, that is correct." He nodded, "Even if I was blackmailed to do it… As a scientist, I couldn't help but be marveled by how it was."
"Such is greed, be it good or bad." Her voice was softened into sadness.
"We must make due with our inner sins and find a way to make it of use for those in need. Especially for the next generation." He said, looking to Penny with a light smile, patting her hands.
"Ah, because of her nature as a metal homunculus?" The two froze. "Lily's Semblance sensed technology. As if she was technology in walking form."
"I hope it's nothing terrible to you? Penny is my daughter. I just want to support whatever she decides."
The Saint shook her head. "Rest assured, I have no disdain in your action in creating artificial life. I have lost my faith in the Brothers ages past."
Pietro sighed with some relief, worried about another person judging his daughter simply because he created her.
"Um… why lose faith?" Penny inquired.
"Penny, shush. Don't make a scene."
"No, let her speak. It is alright." The possessed teen waved her hand. "You can continue."
"People had always believed in the Brothers. Father told me people often pray to them given they are the gods of Remnant."
Vernage eased herself on a chair, Pietro noticing how elegant she sat. Her etiquette as a princess and saint really hasn't waned after centuries. "Because my prayers and pleas were ignored by curiosities." She confessed. "Their curiosity to remain idle and watch Evol do what he wants as he was a lifeform not made by them. But a near deity of the cosmos as he is a black hole that he kept proclaiming to be."
"The Brothers just… ignored him?" Penny questioned.
"Either from curiosity or by fear. What is a god to a being of the universe's darkness?" Vernage's hand surged with magic, casting an illusion of darkness around them before revealing glimmering stars. The spectacle earned awe from Pietro while Penny was genuinely mesmerized. "I once read the stars were but suns - lights amongst the cosmic rays of the universe. Alas… the darkness can snuff them out, the suns exploding into such an abyss that the light they are becomes the darkness, swallowing everything around it. Evol is that darkness with no light."
"But we can't give up, either!" Penny proclaimed. "If we do, then what was the point of us existing in the first place if we weren't given the power to fight back? You fought for centuries! If that is true then surely we can do the same as you!"
The reincarnate stared before closing her eyes and smiled. "It was Lily who reminded me there is still light in the hearts of mankind. Seems even beings like you too hold such a light." Penny made a bashful smile.
"That's my girl… Always able to bring out the light and smiles within others." Pietro smiled, truly happy and blessed to have her by his side. "Now Vernage… er should I address you as your royal title or-?"
The maiden giggled from his politeness. "Anything is fine, Pietro. As long as people address me kindly and equally then they receive the same treatment back."
"Then Vernage, I want to ask this… how much do you know regarding Evol's technology? He mentioned in his broadcast about the tale between you and him that he helped you and your people advance."
"I'm partially knowledgeable about the Blood Technology but not a large expert. However, Lily's Semblance enables me to understand the technology I manipulate or create. Maybe the manipulation part can be of use to the problems you are having with this bottle." Her emerald eyes trailed to the bottle in question. "I sense the cosmic energy Evol had caused a shift in its state."
"Yes, but I don't know how to proceed with it. Every idea I can think of, either ends with a power failure, or it could kill the boy. I don't want that to happen to him…" Pietro said, showing concern.
Truly, this elderly man was one of a kind. Knows the danger but still keeps with his morals and code for a better future. Not just for him, but for those after him. Unlike the other leaders of this new era, he simply wanted a better future for his daughter and others and isn't letting fear get to him.
It was uncomfortable silence at first but Vernage began to conjure something from the Semblance she shares with Lily. It looked to be a device, meant to slot into something, fully red and with a gauge and blue button.
"What.. is that?" Pietro questioned.
"It may help you solve the situation with that bottle. Not sure if it will provide many but it may be of use."
Pietro was handed the small device as he looked up to her and nodded, "I won't let you down… Thank you. Also.. if you ever need a friend to talk to, Vernage. I'm free when it comes to tea."
He swore the corner of her lips twitched upward at the mention of tea. Even her eyes nearly glimmered. "Tea sounds fitting."
"Penny? Mind making a pot for us?" Pietro asked his daughter, feeling like maybe treating Vernage to a nice calming cup would do her good. The redhead robot smiled with a nod as she went off to brew up a pot.
XXX
Vernage sighed heavily. She forgot the last time she ever had tea with someone. It was quite nostalgic. Taking a walk of the town was something she wished to see. She had seen countless towns and cities change, grow, and abandon. Countless times of change. Her hand delicately brushed across her back, feeling the large weapon she treasured. It was crafted by the royal blacksmith when she began her quest to stop Evol. At first she never fought but after the war and mess Evol created in the beginning of time, she had sought to learn. And learn she did. Her combat never ended, her training never ended, her lessons never faded away. Her swordplay either.
Most would call her a master swordswoman given how long she had been fighting, she wasn't one for praises. Her emerald eyes basked in the festivities that were beginning now that Evol has laid low upon the box being taken which he willingly allowed them to and met a fair fight. With her magic on her palm, light simmered and revealed the Box. She had kept it ever since they left Eden. It was too dangerous for others to hold it. It was shrouded in her golden glow, preventing any soul from touching it as the risks were grim.
Returning the box into her space, she sighed softly. Times really have changed. To take part in a festival was… nostalgic. She remembered the festivities Eden held thanks to her father before he fell ill.
Stopping a step, her gaze noticed Winter staring at the electronic board on a building.
… Ah yes, the elder Schnee. She faintly touched Lily's memories and sensed the grim and foreboding memories. Tortured and beaten by Lily herself. A talk was needed.
" ?" Winter glanced but tensed before relaxing, finding Vernage and not Lily. Different voices, different colors of eyes and hair.
"Ah… Vernage?"
"Yes."
It was awkward silence but Vernage opened her mouth, "I'm sure there are words to discuss." She elegantly gestured to the sidewalk they stood on.
"Yes… very many…." Winter sighed softly, rubbing her arm. She still feels unsure about Lily ever since their fight and her torture. Sure, the young boy said to trust her now, but she still felt some fear being around her after everything she's done. But, given what they learned from the broadcasts, she couldn't blame the girl either.
The two walked, Winter sending occasional glances at Vernage. Her ice blue eyes trail to the hair white as the moonlight and her emerald eyes that genuinely felt like she was looking into gems. She would have mistook her as a Schnee due to the hair.
"I can sense the fear you hold because of Lily." Vernage spoke.
"That simple?"
"Your eyes speak of it. Winter, if you wish to voice it all about her, then say it. I hold no ill will."
Winter paused at that. Her mind wanting to say so much. Yet her heart didn't seem to be the same. She was confused as to what to do or even say. Her eyes showing the conflict and desire for help and an answer to it.
Vernage merely paced ahead.
"Why…"
"Hm?"
"Why place your life into the girl who has murdered people? After what she had done to me! After the pain… all the words she spat at my face! It felt like knives were puncturing my chest to everything! Not a day goes by I still have nightmares of those words and the torture…. why have faith in her?!"
"… Tell me Schnee, have you seen the darkness humanity has?" Winter paused. "Let me clarify, have you seen evil acts humans and Faunus do with your own eyes? Or have you remained within Atlas to not involve in such while fighting Grimm?"
"How does that-"
"Yes or no, Winter."
"… No. We have been focused on the Grimm before we came to Vale for the festival."
"I've seen humans swindle others. I've seen them mistreat Faunus when they were first known to humanity. I've seen too much dark actions us humans do that I was starting to lose my trust in other non-mages."
"Non-mages?"
"Those without magic. As I was saying, I had only trust in the families who birthed me in each generation until I met Lily. A little girl who had lived her life in the streets. A girl who was called a street rat. A little bot. Many disgusting words that I hated. I took her in and taught her of the world because she reminded me we still have light in our hearts. Lily was experimented on, felt betrayed by Cody, enduring so much pain she had to crawl out of that pit she was thrown in. And then look at me." She gestured to herself. "I've lost countless mothers and fathers who raised me. Brothers and sisters who cared for me. I've been reborn repeatedly. I fought Evol countless times and died. Live. Die. Repeat. An endless cycle. I've been toyed with by that snake, mentally tortured by his words of torment. I have kept my sanity because I have a heart to feel love and family. Lily had no one but me until we died by that bastard. I gave her my own soul so she can live. I didn't choose rebirth because Lily was a sweet child until Evol twisted her emotions."
"In a sense… you're watching over someone who could be considered your daughter. Have you…?"
"Have I ever fell in love? I stopped thinking of such things because of my quest. I was 15 on a mission to stop Evol. Fifteen years old to fight a monster who was thousands years older than me. Learning my whole kingdom, my beloved home. My people are all gone but now to see it become… that?" She pointed to the tower and walls within Eden far off the coast. "I know pain, Winter. I truly do but you must not let such pain swell in your heart. It will only eat you until you wish an end to your life. I had so many opportunities for such thoughts but I didn't give up. I stood up. I raised my head high and was determined to face my fears and fight for it."
"I… see…" Winter noted, looking at the maiden.
"Let me ask you, Winter Schnee. You say you are a proud Specialist? Tell me, are you proud to be a soldier? Or will you only let such dark memories and the names of fallen you fought side by side with be in vain?"
Winter remained silent, pondering over those words as while she was proud to be a Huntress and help people. She also couldn't forget the many lives that were lost, ones that she did cherish. But she had to remain strong and sturdy as ice. She couldn't falter because of those dark memories.
The saint saw the shift in Winter's eyes. "That is the gaze that fits you. Remember that, okay?"
The woman sniffed but smiled. "I see why you were called a Saint. Sharp, honest…."
"It is the creed I was taught when I was first born in Eden." The reincarnate felt a hint of pride. "… oh goodness I am feeling like my younger teenage self from that…"
Winter chuckled softly, "Perhaps, being one with Lily will do you some good too?" She then frown. "But Vernage, I must tell you. Things right now are troubling."
"Define troubling."
"The words spreading regarding the existence of magic as you, Cody and Evol hold that gift including the mysterious masked woman who assisted you."
"I take it, this means your 'General' wants to try and persuade me to offering that to 'help' defeat Evol and Salem?"
"Yes…" Winter said, despite even she knew that wasn't the best idea to do. "Amongst… other options."
Vernage frowned. "Say it."
"Sharp and critical you are… Ironwood had thought to ask one of his close associates in convincing to adopt Lily whereas another option was for the possibility you… ahem."
"You mean to bear one to have magic just as Cody's mother passed on Evol's magic to him."
"Yes…." Winter grimaced, as she thought that idea was the worst one.
Vernage's brow twitched. "Where is he?"
"Within his airship… It may be diffi-" The reincarnate was gone. "Cult. Well… I just hope she doesn't blow up the airship… this one is all on you, General."
XXX
"Make sure the Amity tower remains safely above grounds of Emerald Forest." Ironwood instructed through the screen. "And do keep the reporters away from the hospital. It is getting irritating."
"Yes sir." The soldier saluted before the call was dismissed.
A whirl of wind tickled Ironwood's back, making him turn around and notice Vernage who appeared from a golden circle beneath her.
"Ah, Vernage. That's a relief for once…" He sighed, knowing it wasn't Evol again.
"What is the meaning of your intentions, James Ironwood?" She hissed.
"Pardon?"
"To attempt to use my little flower for your sick gain against the snake and Salem. Don't you dare lie to me." Vernage demanded. "To adopt her? To have her inherit an heir of magic?! What in mankind's name has humanity done to stoop low for you to suggest such… bigotry?!"
"It is for the sake of Remnant. If we are to have any chance against such forces like Evol and Salem. An army is needed for that. Since we know it can be passed from parent to child, it would be best to have as many magical soldiers as possible, if we are to stop them for good." Ironwood stated, showing no concern or remorse for what he just said.
The familiar metal being appeared behind the general, towering over the man whereas the maiden's eyes glimmered with magic. Her mind was screaming at her to put down the man but her duty as a saint withheld it. "You are sick. Lily is a legal adult thus has her choice. Furthermore I decide it as I inhabit her. Thus those options are denied. You have no right to use my flower for your goal because of your stupid paranoia of stronger foes greater than your military. For goodness sake, have soldiers of this era fallen into such minds?!"
"When you're facing against foes who are nigh invincible, with no real way to truly counter or just kill them as easily as everything else? You must do whatever it takes to survive. It is for the good of humanity."
"… or yourself?"
"Excuse me?"
"Is it because for Atlas sake? You have not voiced the opinions of the other kingdoms. Would they eben agree to such inhumane choices?"
"Atlas is my home and under my protection. I will do whatever it takes to protect my kingdom. The rest, are allies, yes. But Atlas is my first and main priority."
The metal creation grabbed Ironwood and forced to look Vernage in the eyes. "Let me say this one last time. Keep those hands away from Lily. I am the one you better talk to when it came to such bigotry. I've met people like you in general throughout my years. I'm older than you to see it. People like you perished because of it." The metal creation released him and properly adjusted his uniform before hovering behind Vernage. "I am Lily's guardian. Either have my approval or you won't hear anything from me as did Ozpin." The metal being vanished before she did so as well.
Ironwood frowned upon this. It seemed that any negotiation has failed. For now, he'll just focus on the festival and doing his best until he finds a way to truly stop these monsters for good.
XXX
"Oh Ms. Vernage!" Ruby noticed. She stopped and peered at the woman. "Um… it's Vernage right? Not Lily?"
"Likewise. Ruby… Rose, correct?" Vernage smiled, as the innocent Huntress was something that made the maiden smile.
"Phew! It is so confusing!"
"You have the right to be confused." She noticed the rest of Team RWBY. "Ah Xiao Long, still miffed about Cody's dense head?"
"I have nothing to say about that jerk, right now." Yang huffed. Still angry over his dense nature.
"Maybe I should put a few volts in his head…" She murmured.
"So what brings you to the fair grounds?" Ruby asked with a smile.
"To explore. I can't dwell too much in Lily's memories because she is sleeping. She hasn't had a peaceful rest in so long."
"Is… she doing okay?" Blake asked the maiden.
"After everything? She had never once had a night of peace. There were times during my slow awakening I sensed her pain and tears in her sleep…" Vernage looked at the water, revealing the reflection of Lily who looked to be sleeping. "My little flower was such a sweet girl… Evol had only twisted her emotions of pain for his goals."
"I.. hope she is having peaceful dreams…" Blake said, showing worry for Lily as well.
Vernage then gently gripped the black skirt and gave a brief curtsy of nobility. "Really, I am grateful for each of your actions in your defiance against Evol and his faction."
"Its not like we had much choice… Plus we all wanted to give him a piece of our mind, for messing with us." Weiss huffed.
"Don't we all." Vernage agreed. "I comment you hold a good aura of grace, young Weiss."
"I am a Schnee after all." Weiss smiled softly, giving her own curtsey. "Some of us, still remain what we were trained for… is it true? Are, er, were you-"
"A reeaaalll Princess?" Ruby finished for Weiss.
"Yes I was. I ruled in my father's place when he was ill for several years." She confirmed. "I believe I was 12 when I started my ruling. Or was it 13?"
"I am sorry to hear that happened to him…" Weiss said with a head bow. "My grandfather was someone I looked up to and hope that he is proud for what I've done."
"We hate to ask, Vernage but how old were you when you started to fight Evol?" Blake inquired.
"Same age as young Rose here." The maiden gestured.
"Woah… you kicked butt more than me…." Ruby gawked with awe and wonder. Her silver eyes trailed to the weapon. "Oh! Oh! That must be the weapon you used! Can I see!"
"Wait, young Rose my weapon isn't meant for-!"
"I wielded Crescent Rose! This will be easy-!" Pulling the weapon from the magnetic clasp on Vernage/Lily's back, she yelped upon the weight and fell on her back, the weapon landing flat on her. Her Aura glimmered from the weight pressed against her chest.
"It's weighted to be a ton for a normal person." Vernage revealed.
"A ton?!" Weiss gawked. "How can you wield it?!"
"… Training?" Vernage picked it off of Ruby. "I had enchanted it to ensure it survives the ages of time." Her fingers delicately brushed across the blade. "It is one of my most treasured katanas… Virtuous Steel…"
"You kicked butt with such a heavy weapon…. Awesome…" Ruby said with delight in her eyes once more. "I wanna know how you train to hold it! Oh! Oh! Better yet, can we see how your Virtuous Steel is against Crescent Rose!? Please! Pleasepleasplease!"
By mankind she never expected the young girl to have so much energy. "… Uh… Xiao Long? L-Little help?" She pleaded.
Finally Yang held a cheshire grin "…. oh? Is the beloved Saint actually asking for help?"
"This is something beyond my forte!"
"Let me think~."
"I'll give Cody several good volts to get his dense head to see your emotions!"
"... and set up a date." Yang added.
"For mankind's sake, I'll do that!" She tried to keep Ruby's flailing hands away from her precious sword.
"Deal. Oh Ruby~." She reached into her pouch and opened the bag.
Ruby sniffed and darted to Yang. "Is that… this morning's cookies from the popular bakery?!"
"Still fresh. But! First, stop pestering Vernage for a spar. She will do that if you stop pleading like a puppy."
Ruby gasped, "I was not!"
"You were." Weiss deadpanned. "You are salivating regarding the design of the weapon she wields. Especially with how she used Lily's Semblance to create that metal thing that became two sets of large claws and armor."
"But.. can you blame me? It's so cool! An old weapon, still in prime condition! What weapon lover wouldn't attempt to try it out!?" Ruby eyes sparkled with delight over the sword. "And with that Technomancy semblance… ooohhh, she can make so many weapons! Oh! Vernage can you-"
"Ruby. Do so or these cookies will be eaten by Cody."
"But the weapons!"
"Strike two. You know you want them, Ruby. Delicious. Sweet. Cookies."
Ruby stared at the bag Yang dangled and swallowed. Either eat the special cookies or ask Vernage to make weapons…
"Why must you torture me so…?" Ruby whimpered before soon pouncing on the bag, quickly opening it up and eating the cookies with delight on her face.
"Is… the bakery that popular?" Vernage asked.
"No, Ruby just really likes cookies. Almost as much as weapons." Yang playfully rolled her eyes. "Honestly she can be childish in such small things."
"I am not, small sis! I drink milk!"
"…. hmph." All eyes went to Vernage who was the source of the audible chuckle. "I… once made that same response… and proved them wrong."
"… I can see why." Yang noted. "So! About that deal?"
"Oh…"
"If you are a princess surely you still kept a few rich things lying around? Oh and maybe-" Vernage began to hear Yang's suggestions to the date with Cody.
Vernage mentally whined in dismay. This was by far the strangest group she had ever met. Yet… she couldn't help but enjoy their company as well.
XXX
"Good humans I thought that was all…" Yang had given her a list and goodness she never expected such details. Alas she had to keep her word. The date was set the moment Cody recovers and right now promised a spar with Ruby Rose.
"This is going to be so much fun!" Ruby giggled with delight, twirling her scythe before posing with it. Vernage did have to admit, the young silver eyed girl's skill with the Scythe was very impressive, especially for one as young as her.
"Ruby… you sure this is a good idea?" Weiss questioned. "You are going to be sparring a woman who is… well… extremely old. N-No offense, Vernage!"
"None taken. Rest assured I am not like the women who make outbursts or those glares regarding such a sensitive topic."
"I wonder how our blades will clash? What color of sparks will show? How durable is the old age weaponry compared to today? Ohh, there's just so many questions!" Ruby said out loud, clearly only paying attention to the weapon and fight about to commence.
The maiden gripped her precious weapon and pulled it, twirling it before she raised it high and slammed the tip of her blade against the floor, creating a web of cracks and a resounding echo upon its weight.
"…" Weiss's eyes were full of bewilderment.
"Weiss?"
"I-I just realized. Vernage said she first fought when she was 15 right?" BY nodded. "Then she must have been Ruby's height. How on Remnant would she be able to carry a sword that tall at that age… and swing it without problem?"
"Now that you mentioned it…"
"Ready Rose?" Vernage questioned. "I will have no need for the Semblance in this fight. Nor my magic."
"Ready!"
The timer of the combat room echoed before it went to 0. Ruby immediately used her Semblance to zoom towards her opponent's flank, swinging her Crescent Rose. Suddenly Vernage moved her blade sideways, effortlessly blocking the curved edge. Twirling her grip, she shoved the weapon upward and slammed her boot against Ruby's chest, causing a flicker in Aura. The young Huntress staggered and looked at her snow-haired opponent who moved her sword back to its original position she held it.
"She… saw it without even moving her eyes." Blake uttered. Everyone had seen how Vernage fought Evol. It made her wonder just how fast and strong she was against the average human and Faunus. Her mind was racing at the thought of her effortless ability to outmatch anyone currently alive.
Ruby merely had several years of training. Vernage had centuries of real combat experience. She understood Ruby's eagerness but this almost felt way out of balance.
"Not bad, but not good enough, Miss Rose." Vernage smirked softly.
Ruby slammed Crescent Rose's edge into the floor and fired four rounds. Vernage immediately tightened her hold on her katana and spun it, Ruby's eyes widened to each bullet impacting the flat edge of Virtuous. The bullets collapsed like pennies before Vernage landed on her feet from the flip.
"While I admire your determination to force me off my spot, those projectiles are average in my eyes."
"Eh?"
"Evol moves at 100m per 2 seconds if he so wishes. Faster than a mere bullet or your Semblance."
"But… he's a meanie! So I win! HA!" Ruby proclaimed with a smirk.
"Perhaps." Vernage suddenly vanished and reappeared before her. "Or you didn't see how far I had to push myself to match it."
"Woah!" Ruby gasped, falling back on her rear. "Ow…" she saw the sword pointed at her, allowing her silver eyes to look up at emerald eyes.
"Good try though. I respect your determination in that spar." She lowered the blade and extended her hand to Ruby. "For a girl with the silver eyes has greatness in their future." Ruby grabbed hold and was pulled up to her feet.
The others stepped down from the steps but looked at Vernage. "Vernage, did you just say Evol moves that fast?" The maiden nodded. "T-To match that speed would take years! Yet you were able to even see Evol from such capacity!"
"Yes… But that's just his first phase… He may have more." The maiden grimaced. "I may be the most capable without armor, but Evol will get stronger the more he sheds his skin… and by then, I will be no match to stop him…"
"Which means if we can't help Cody get stronger…" Yang grimaced at the thought of them losing all because of that snake.
"I will teach him how to harness the magic he wields. If he inherited Evol's magic then there is without a doubt he inherited his strength but he must reach into that kevel to do so." Vernage placed the weapon on her back.
Ruby lowered her head before she perked up. She completely forgot what she wanted to ask her. "Say Vernage? There's something I… well, we want to ask." She chewed her lip. "Who is Salem that Evol mentioned?"
"…" Vernage's eyes darkened slightly. "You wish to know of another woman who was from the age of gods like myself?" She saw their gaze of fixture. Vernage created chairs and sat down. "I believe you four deserve to know as Ozpin had hid this from you all. Evol merely broke the dam, the truth must be revealed." She steepled her hands together. "Salem… is the reason behind the movement in the shadows. A magic user like myself who hated the gods with such disdain and-"
"Vernage, stop." All eyes blinked and looked at the class entrance to notice Ozpin.
"Ozpin. You can't just-"
"I can, and I will. Girls, please return to your dorm. Miss 'Vernage' needs to leave." He ordered them.
"Professor we just wanted to ask her-"
"Girls, please. There will be a time to know… just not right now."
Team RWBY looked at each other in concern before exiting the combat room of the school. With them gone and the door closed, Ozpin looked at Vernage who still had her hands steepled with her calm gaze. "Hiding the reality will do little for the truth to be known, Ozma. They asked and I was abiding by their question."
"I know… But do they need to learn it right after having a break for once? Did you forget about the Grimm over your crusade?"
"I haven't nor have I forgotten how many times I had to stop them from attacking villages. Towns. The frontier itself. I am extremely aware of Salem's goal. The Relics the Brothers made."
"Then please… can you wait? The masses are not ready to learn about this…. Not yet. It'd just make the Grimm attack us earlier than necessary."
"Yet the world is already talking of the existence of magic. That cannot be silenced."
"And that can be dealt with… But with Salem? Not yet… Not until I can figure out a proper way to tell them."
"Now? Or never."
"So-"
"Now or never Ozma." Now her voice turned to the royal tone as the princess she was. "Remember our conversation and my recording. You lied to many of your comrades. Salem, your own former lover, is lashing at humanity so that the gods can return and wipe all of us out. You are standing here doing nothing when she is moving with delicacy. The same way Evol has done so."
"I know that!" He shouted but lowered his voice, taking a deep breath, "I know… I.. I just need time to process this and gain the courage to tell them…"
"Time that you waste." She stood up and proceeded to the door but stood by his side. "Last warning Ozma. Tell them the truth now, or I will do so myself. You were a Hero when we first met. Is that still true when you have made these deceitful decisions?" She exited the room.
'Brothers, what have I done to deserve this?'
Unbeknownst to the two, a certain feline Faunus overheard everything.
Just what did she hear? What was Ozpin or was it Ozma keeping secret from them? This became a problem, and Blake was more worried what would happen now? She could only wait and hope it wasn't something as terrifying as Evol.
She bit her lip, her eyes staring at the retreating Vernage.
Just what was Vernage even wanting from all of this?
XXX
A/N: Another chap and explanation inbound.
So, as you all can see? Vernage isn't one for secrets. Given what you all have read now, Evol pretty much made the Saint have a distain for secrecy and lies. Can't really blame her for acting out like this. True, we all know that Ozpin should've been upfront and honest to those he has allied with. But as shown too, it can lead to a dire problem as shown within the series.
This is meant to question both sides as none can be truly right or wrong in their stances alongside how things go. This'll be something that does bring problems later on, but for now we'll have to wait.
Until then, be well minna!