Fangs of the Exiles
Rated M
Rwby
Summary:
Life is not about what happens to you, but what you make of it... At least that's what everyone says. Two faunus will answer whose way is right, carrying the will of a titanic kingdom while the other, the spirit of one who shouldn't exist. Forgotten, their paths will cross, for better or worse.
A/N:
Chapter 35: Faith in the Sword-1
This world...
Such a realm is cruel to those like us, yet, despite this truth, it is better this way: my brother, my leader. Neither of you was supposed to exist back there. If you can find it in your heart to one day forgive me, that would make it all worth it. She cannot find you here; Anomalies who were destined for another fate cannot return, so, for the sake of Remnant... Well, the Remnant you left behind... Please be content with your life here.
It's for the best...
[Anima Woods]
As night fell over the land, a sudden chill fell over all who found themselves draped in nature's embrace. Most would wear a jacket as it was nearing the winter season but, grievously, some weren't afforded that opportunity. Aganju sat along a tree branch with irritation brewing deep inside of him. He'd been tailing a group of faunus hunters since he finished breakfast. It was a simple task to be sure, but, it opened old wounds for the fox.
Normally he was a carefree soul, but tasks like this sharpened a razor's edge from deep within him.
It was a never-ending reminder of the conflicting past that plagued him. Pain. Despair. Regret. Failure. These emotions were sufficient to trigger delirium in the young male, but he fought them down with clenched eyes.
"You alright?" a voice broke through his mourning thoughts. Aganju found himself staring at the greyish eyes of Ilia, worry dancing behind the pale orbs. "You're not sick or anything are you?"
"I'm fine," he cleared his throat a bit before brandishing a smile to the chameleon faunus. "I was just lost in thought."
Ilia suspected that there was more to the situation than what was being revealed, but she didn't want to press the matter unless the vulpine was willing to share. Meanwhile, a blond faunus approached with little regard for tact, casually slinging his arm around Aganju's neck with a smug smile. To call this behavior irritating would be an understatement.
"Relax, man. It's probably just first-mission jitters," the monkey boy chuckled. "We've all been there! All we have to do is- Ow!"
His impending recitation was cut short, courtesy of a punch to the top of his head that left him teary-eyed. While he rubbed the comically large bump, it was the dark-haired girl, Blake if he remembered, who stepped out from the shadows.
"Show some respect, Sun..." the feline dusted her hands while her boyfriend whined like a child who'd been put on punishment. "...I apologize for his actions. He's not the most sensitive of the bunch. That being said, given that it's your first mission with us, I'd understand if you were nervous about messing up."
"It's not that..." Aganju cut in, his eyes never leaving the ground below. "I just had a lot on my mind. It's nothing I can't handle, so don't worry about me. I'll get the job done." Only then did he turn to the others, his violet eyes focused and harsh. "I'll prove that I'm worthy."
Blake exchanged a look with Sun and Ilia, each one sharing her concern. However, there was little time to display comfort as she picked up the sounds of movement coming steadily. She nodded toward the monkey and chameleon, watching as they rushed off to their designated positions. Before she took her place, Blake spared one final glance at the crouched boy.
"Aganju, remember..."
"I got it," he drew his weapon as a caravan of people walked down the single trail. "I keep them occupied while you free those in captivity."
"Good."
"But," she stopped short of leaving abruptly. "I won't guarantee that they'll live through this."
Blake felt a chill run down her spine as Aganju's words sank in. Was he willing to kill if it came down to it? She couldn't tell if it was just his simmering anger towards those who profited by enslaving the faunus, or something more. But it didn't matter now - they had a mission to complete, and Raven had made it clear that nothing would stand in their way. Blake quickly pulled on her mask, disappearing into the shadows. If they were going to succeed, they would have to be prepared to do whatever it takes.
He felt his anger begin to flow throughout his body, the remnant of the one who gave him a second chance at life. Soon, the bright hue of purple transfigured into blood red as he pulled his own covering up to shield his features before dropping down. He lands in front of the slavers as they lead a chain gang of dejected faunus, startling the hunters.
"What the?! Who the hell are you?"
As they regarded Aganju's unwavering glare, the driver couldn't help but feel a sense of foreboding. It was as if something big was about to happen, and Aganju's silence and pure hatred only added to the tension in the air. Then, four men stepped out from around the wagon, leaving a fifth to watch over the captured lot. They all appeared to be wearing cast-away clothing, the only notable thing being that they all wore straw hats and no shoes. These were small fries just looking to make a few quick bucks in the market, but there was something about their demeanor that made me feel like they were up to something more sinister.
"Seems it's not much of a talker, Slim." one woman bellowed.
"Oh, you mean like one of them mutes, Jen?" the fat man mirrored her annoying laugh. "Then, it looks like a waste of time to speak to the poor creature. Just put him with the others and we'll be"
Slim didn't get the opportunity to finish his instructions as he felt something sharp slicing into his throat. Thick sanguine liquid flew in the air as the man clutched at his throat. It did little good as he only managed to rip and claw at the gaping wound in his struggle, causing it to grow. His efforts were only rewarded with his vocal gurgling soon diminishing until he fell from the wooden carriage, his eyes scattered in death.
The others watched in horror at the sight of their deceased comrade. It happened so quickly that they couldn't possibly anticipate such a vicious and ruthless attack. Slowly they began to process what'd just occurred only to find that the vulpine stood across from them, a large scythe resting loosely over his shoulders. Under the moonlight, they could see the blood of their kin, trickling carelessly onto the dirt road.
"What did you do that fer?!" Jen's shrill voice pierced the night. Aganju didn't move, his cold eyes simply staring back as his 'response'. This only angered the woman even further as she charged blindly while drawing her weapon, a short broad sword. "I'LL KILL YA!"
The tension in the air was palpable as the woman charged towards him with all her might, her every move broadcasted widely. But he was too quick for her. With a swift sidestep, he dodged her attack, watching as she tripped and fell hard on the ground. Although a part of him felt a twinge of guilt for the woman, he knew he couldn't let his guard down. He turned around, only to be met with the sight of two angry men rushing towards him, their swords glinting menacingly in the sun. It was time to fight for his life.
Unlike the woman, Aganju had no qualms about ending their miserable lives as they closed in. He sighed behind his mask before pivoting on the ball of his right foot. They possessed no guard, only a desire to exact vengeance against their prey. He turned the point of the curved blade toward the ground, pulling with all his strength as the men came down, removing their heads from their bodies in the process.
"Worthless..." he spat with venom.
"Monster..." Aganju felt his body tense as that name entered his range. "How could you slaughter my family without even blinking? How could you take innocent lives without even batting an eye?! You and your kind deserved to be locked away forever!"
For the first time since the mission started, Aganju was stunned.
He hadn't expected to hear such words, especially not coming from someone connected to the selling of another race of people. The woman continued to shout obscenities at the faunus, emptying her rage and woes into a verbal tirade. His blood began to boil as her self-righteous diatribe. Unknowingly, this wasn't just affecting him at the moment, it was impacting his past self.
The little boy within wanted nothing more than to break down and cry. Every inch of his body began to shake uncontrollably as his snarl grew larger. A dark aura began to swirl around him. This did little to stop the woman's outcry for 'justice' given her hypocritical stance. His eyes burned with unbridled rage, tears falling freely as images of his own family, murdered without mercy flashed before him.
How dare you?! his soul gnarled at the kneeling woman. How dare you call me a monster? How dare you call yourselves innocent?! You've lied! Deceived! Stolen! Enslaved. You use my people as pawns for your comfort and livelihood and yet... yet you dare to call US monsters?!
No longer was he composed; his demons had finally awakened from their spiritual prison, each one prepared to feast on their prey. This is what Aganju feared, yet now he stood over her eager to unite her with her fallen kin.
"STOP!"
Though he wasn't in control, Aganju could recognize that it was Ilia standing in between him and his goal. Her gentle gaze froze the beast in place as he stared down the owner. But, why? Why would she protect such filth? His bloodlust never seemed to affect the girl though her pleas also fell on deaf ears, creating a stalemate.
"Please... We've rescued the faunus so we can just leave."
"But..."
"I understand your anger toward them, but we have a mission to complete."
Aganju clenched his eyes shut before storming away from the girl.
Whether he was right or not, he didn't like the idea of leaving the woman alive. As if reading his mind, Ilia Amitola clenched her weapon tightly, glaring fiercely at the woman behind her. Gulping, it was clear that her fate was now in the young girl's hands, something that she'd come to find to be worse than the brutal death that was previously scheduled for her.
Sharp gasps of suffering meshed with the strong gust of air around them. Aganju didn't care what happened as the torture commenced. Blake and Sun didn't seem too broken up about things either as they worked to free their fellow Faunus from the shackles that held them prisoner. Alongside them, the fifth hunter lay motionless in a pool of his blood.
"So, what now?"
"First, we get these people to a safe house where the others will move them out of Anima," Sun said softly, and Blake nodded in confirmation. "It may take a couple of days or so, but, if things go right, we can continue to prevent others from being thrown into slavery."
Aganju looked at the crowd of people. Men, women, and children stood with varying expressions. Some wore trepidation like it was a brand new suit while others chose relief as their emotional clothing of choice. It was truly a bittersweet moment but, they could discuss their feelings on the subjects later. As the three finalized their plan for the faunus, Ilia approached with a knowing grin on her face.
"Let's go home..." she said softly. "We should report back to Raven soon."
"You're right! We'll need to get things ready for our newest teammate after all!" Sun exclaimed, once more capturing the fox in a playful headlock. "No doubt, you'll make a strong addition to the group."
Aganju was about to retort but chose to roll his eyes in amusement before setting off with the former captives. They were grateful for the darkness shrouding their escape. It wasn't a permanent fix by any means, but it was the first step for Aganju's future. He didn't think much about the killings committed but, two questions racked his brain.
One answer came along the road they left behind where the young woman lay convulsing. Her tears fell silently as not even a breath was heard from her despite her trembling form. Her insides burned violently, the pain and agony becoming too much to even eke out a cry. The last thing she remembered was being stabbed by something before feeling ungodly amounts of volts coursing through every inch of her.
The only solace came when she felt her life drain away, her suffering nearly over as she wept sanguine tears under the moonlight.
"I thought you were going to let her live?"
"I never said that..." Ilia wiped the sanguine liquid off her weapon. "She wasn't worth your blade..."
"And she was worth yours?"
Ilia paused for a moment before flashing a devious smirk that took the fox by surprise. It wasn't evil by any stretch of the word, but there was a hint of deviance that he couldn't help but respect. Hiding one's dark side behind a bright smile and blameless eyes was a skill that he was adept at, but he could use some training from a master like her.
"I hope you aren't still holding onto that night, Aganju hehe. Those assholes just caught me on an off night."
"I'll keep that in mind."
As for the other question, Aganju would receive his answer soon enough. For now, he was content with where his journey had ended up at this point. According to Sun, he would probably be accepted into the fold. Add to that his first time interacting with other faunus outside of a ranch and he was truly thankful for how things turned out. It would be challenging going forward, but, Aganju wouldn't have it any other way.
Months passed rather quickly after that night.
Upon their success, Raven wasted no time in smuggling the rescued faunus out of the continent. Once they were safely out at sea, they were taken to Menagerie, far away from the cruelty of Anima's caste system. The boy felt proud of their success after returning to the Branwen homestead that day, even more so when he was accepted into the group upon his completion, and why wouldn't he? Very few were prepared for what he possessed and he made good use of that advantage in the future. From there, he'd go through several other missions to establish himself as a strong force within the ranks of Anima's guerillas.
I must say that he's made significant progress since joining.
However, with every action, there would be consequences...
Dire consequences.
Unhappy with the loss of their 'assets', Valentin Nikos and his cohorts implemented heavier restrictions on the Faunus.
First, those who were to be sold would be branded. Illegal faunus rings were also erected as a sadistic form of 'entertainment'. Depending on where one would travel, some contests were even fought to the death. Those awaiting their fates in one of the many ranches would find themselves enduring even harsher conditions. From vicious beatings to starvation to outright torture treatments, it mattered little to Valentin or his accomplices.
So long as their methods reaped desired results, they would continue. It's funny how a single act can bring out one's true self and desire; the hearts of the so-called superior race truly manifesting the darkest fissures of man's weakness within themselves. Their hatred seemingly knew no bounds as time marched on.
Even worse, the reach of the combined efforts of the alliance soon triggered a chain reaction amongst the people of Mistral.
The Mistralian Union underwent a coup, transitioning from their unified council of leaders to that of an autocracy. Only certain areas were considered safe havens for the Faunus as a result while the open lands were prime pickings for trafficking under the iron fist of a regime. With Valentin at the helm of military power, the Winchester family soon got their wish after striking a deal that would guarantee faunus labor to those high in status, including Atlas' Schnee Empire; More workers meant more money to be made.
As time moves forward, I wonder who will sound the horn of war.
More interesting, which players will appear from the flames victorious...?
Soft snow crunched under boots as more of the frost descended on the city of Garneta, creating some semblance of peace. Fewer ruffians and ne'er do wells were out as the chilly air demanded their subordination.
Only those courageous enough to bear the brunt of Mother Winter's frigid kiss were out this evening. A pair of attentive eyes watched from under a fur-lined hooded jacket as many civilians were entering or exiting shops with greetings and simpers as warm as their winter garb. It was a refreshing display to witness as humans and faunus alike were able to communicate and coexist in this large town with little conflict aside from a few shoppers arguing over an item, yet even such an exchange held its essence of jest.
A small grin broke though much of their features were hidden under the large covering as they crossed through various streets. A wave of gratefulness filled the individual's heart as they continued to press through the town, stopping only when green eyes fell on a small club. They wasted no time and opened the door, revealing an expected amount of loud and gaudy music.
Given the time of the evening, she wasn't surprised by the modest crowd of people dancing and mingling with one another. The techno sounds bumped throughout, motivating the guests to give it their all while distinctive dancers were featured along the small stages.
None of those things mattered as the tall young woman approached the pub counter.
"Excuse me?" she yelled, fearing her voice would be muffled by the obnoxious volume. Thankfully, her tone was enough to catch the attention of a young woman cleaning a glass behind the stand. It was interesting to see her wearing sunglasses in such a dimly lit room but, she wouldn't press her luck by mentioning it.
"What can I get you, hun?" the brown-haired woman looked over her shades, amusement dancing behind her eyes.
"I was hoping you could help me find someone...?"
"The police department is uptown, lady," the bartender replied, sizing up the mysterious woman while taking a sip of her drink, white wine. Given that it was chilly outside, it made sense for the patron(?) to be bundled up. "We're not a lost and found. So, you can either order something, pay for a dance, or get out. There's a bar a few blocks down..."
The woman shifted in her seat, turning her head slightly as if trying to scour the scene around her. Quickly she returned her attention to the now overtly irritated server. Her thick brown and white trimmed hooded jacket was the only thing that hid her trepidation as she shivered under her harsh gaze. Fingers twiddled for a moment before the mystery woman finally relented.
"I'll have some water... please and thank you."
The bartender raised a brow, settling on the idea that this person was truly ignorant of her surroundings but, she retrieved a glass of the cool and clear liquid, setting it on the counter. In response, the foreign client placed a small bag on the table before taking the drink, sipping it idly. Taking the pouch, Coco's eyes nearly popped out of her head.
What the hell? She turned her head toward the individual. "Hey, you overpaid! Water's nowhere near this much!"
She moved to push the small sack back discreetly only for a gloved hand to stop her own. Coco's uncertainty only grew when she noticed a small smile, one that said all that she needed to know. This was no accident...
"Is this enough to garner an audience?"
"..."
"I've traveled a great distance and I'm willing to pay more if that's what you require."
The loud blaring music helped to conceal the desperation in her voice. However, unbeknownst to her, two of the dancers were closely observing her. A blond male with a monkey's tail and a brunette girl continued to dance while keeping a watchful eye on the hooded figure. Coco checked on the situation occasionally, but it was evident that the dancers were determined to protect their friend.
"Whoever you're looking for must be important if you're willing to pay upfront."
"She was a dear friend of mine but..." Coco stopped the woman with a finger pressed to her lips.
With bated breath, she watched as the server placed the pouch in a small vault and stepped away without a word. The woman's heart was pounding with a mix of excitement and fear. She had risked everything to make this deal with the underworld, and now it all came down to this moment. Would the server take the money and shoo her away, leaving her high and dry? Or would she honor their agreement and deliver what she had promised? As the woman nervously nibbled on her bottom lip, she couldn't help but wonder if she had made a huge mistake.
Lost in her thoughts, the woman wasn't aware that Coco had returned, a stone face expression now replacing the irritation that previously adorned her features. She tilted her head to the left of them, signaling that something was about to happen.
"Follow the girl with the bow. She'll take you to where you can discuss your issue in private."
"Does this mean you'll help me?" The girl asked with hope lacing her inquiry.
"It means, we'll give you a chance to plead your case. Now hurry up. I have actual customers to attend to."
The shrouded woman bowed her head respectfully, much to Coco's confusion. Either way, once the girl left with her co-worker, it was back to the grindstone. Suspicious amber eyes narrowed at the woman approaching before ushering her to follow. Silently, they pushed through the crowd of dancing guests until they arrived at a door that said: Employees Only.
The woman, unsure of whether this was a trick or not, watched as her escort opened the door, only to look over her shoulder as if another voice would scream 'Last chance to change your mind'. She shook her head, prompting her guide to continue.
A flight of stairs greeted them as they descended to a lit basement where muffled voices could be heard. Her escort lazily hit it multiple times in an indecipherable pattern and soon, their final obstacle yielded to them, welcoming the woman to a world she never expected.
"Punch him!"
"No! Don't let him back you up!"
"Take him down!"
The shouts and cheers were coupled with the sounds of grunts and blows connecting. As they delved deeper into the den, both women could see several men and women tossing money into the ring as two combatants squared off. A blond girl with burning red eyes while her opponent, some random muscled guy, tried to land a hit on her. She expertly blocked many of his seemingly powerful attacks before landing a few of her own. What the crowd didn't expect was that each punch or kick that connected was causing the older fighter to become winded.
It would only be a matter of time before she finished things.
"Come on..." the dark-haired girl motioned. "He's this way."
"He?"
"You wanted to talk about a job, right?" the woman nodded without hesitation. "He's this way. Tread lightly though and "
The voices of the violence-adoring crowd began to fade with each step they took until they were plunged into pure silence. If she was anxious before, there was no doubt that her very soul was trembling as the unknown started eating away at the last traces of her courage.
Maybe this was a mistake? I shouldn't have come all the way here... I should go home! Her mind continued to scream as she shook gently despite the warm corridors.
"Fang! You down here?"
"Yeah! What's up?" a voice called from the distance.
"We have a customer!" Another few moments of silence crept back through the underground hallway before a long sigh pierced that smothering air. He muttered something that the woman could pick up, but it seemed to put a small grin on her guide's face. "Hmmm... Lucky you. He's in a good mood tonight."
"A-Are you sure?"
"Relax. Just tell him what you need to and you'll be alright. Although you may want to show your face, he's not one for concealed identities."
The woman nodded before her escort stretched her arm out in a welcoming manner. Heavy boot steps echoed as she ventured deeper, her mind drawing multiple conclusions and outcomes. She tried to take a deep breath. Any little thing to calm her nerves proved frivolous as she stood mere inches from the door. "Come in..." she heard the voice growl, eliciting a gasp from her.
Slowly she seized the handle, turning it gently as if hoping the silent entry would provide some semblance of advantage. Sadly, she knew that wouldn't do either as she was deep under a building, surrounded by total strangers who could probably take her down before she even came up with a strategy. She blamed her naivety before finally giving in to the inevitable, and entering the room.
"H-Hello?" she eked out, peeking from behind the door like a nervous child.
"You have a job for me..." the male replied offhandedly as the sounds of running water soon ceased. "You must be pretty desperate if you came all of this way."
"I have exhausted all legal channels and wish to employ your services-"
"Stop..." The woman stood in the doorway, tensing greatly at the abrupt interruption. Was she being rejected already? "There's no need for formalities."
She wouldn't receive an answer to that question yet, but one that did spark her intrigue would be revealed in its stead as a door opened from the far end, revealing a... faunus? He had medium-length locs that were currently tied in a messy bun. He had a slender, athletic build, and muscles in all the right places throughout his mocha complexion.
Finally, she noticed his ears, vulpine in nature that sat atop his head, and... a tail? Normally many faunus would only be known to have a single animal-like trait. However, he had two as evidenced by what she was witnessing. His eyes were violet portals, majestic, and perfectly fitting for his stature. But, above all, she couldn't help but feel as if she'd met him before.
"Did you come to discuss a job or just to stare at me like I'm a freak?"
"Oh! I'm sorry..."
He didn't appear to take much offense to her gawking, letting out a rather unsavory yawn as he took his seat.
"You should relax and have a seat, miss... um?"
She bowed her head before reaching up to remove her hood, revealing long purple hair that cascaded down her back freely. Her green eyes were literal pools of innocence and kindness, a trait most rare to her kind.
"My name is..."
"Pyrrha Nikos, daughter of Valentin Nikos?" he finished, observing as Pyrrha's eyes shot wide open in fear.
"H-How?"
"That's a terrible wig," The vulpine cut in with a stoic expression, his brows lightly knit. "While I find it rather interesting to see the heiress to the Nikos fortune, that disguise isn't really good. You strike me as a brunette anyway."
Pyrrha Nikos took a seat across from the young man, removing the wig and unceremoniously, tossing it to the floor. With the faux piece now gone, a few red locks fell from her mirrored messy bun. The debutante removed her jacket, seeing no need for it inside the warm room. This revealed her brown overbust corset with a vertical strip of lighter brown in the center with a black confining long-sleeve shirt underneath.
"So, to what do I owe the honor of your presence?" He asked as he took his seat.
Pyrrha didn't miss the sarcasm in his tone, but she wouldn't press that issue. She came to him with a goal and she was determined to complete it. However, she'd be remiss to ignore the venomous undertone lacing the young man's voice. She couldn't blame him for being highly suspicious of her. She was the daughter of the man who not only began the Faunus slave trade but also had a hand in adding stricter rules and penalties, creating a reality of destitution for those he and others deemed inferior.
"I'm... looking for someone." She rested a hand on the other, lightly squeezing her fist anxiously. The high-ranking girl noticed that the young man across her said nothing though his face revealed interest, inciting her to continue. "She was a dear friend of mine, but, she was taken away after an altercation with my... fiance. She was punished for defending me."
"...and you're hoping that I can find and retrieve her?" He watched the girl nod somberly. It was clear that despite not having any direct relation to the ordeal, she felt largely guilty as a result. From the way she shivered slightly to the light nibbling of her lip, Aganju couldn't help but feel for the girl, but even his pity had a limit in the realm of 'business'. If what she was saying was true, then he'd be taking on a tall order. The risks were extremely high for a matter such as this but, given the state of his would-be client, perhaps it would be worth it. "How do I know that this isn't a set-up? Maybe you just regret letting your favorite slave get away?"
"I swear, it's not!" Pyrrha cried out, small droplets falling now. These weren't tears of sorrow but of anger and pain. "I wouldn't come this far and pay so much money just to discuss a lie! I would stake my life if it meant that she was safe! She wasn't a slave to me... She was my best friend."
The fox watched the woman glare at him, almost challenging his audacity to call her a liar. Even with the wet streaks stinging her eyes, Aganju didn't miss the blaze behind those emerald gateways. He closed his eyes in contemplation before reopening them to see the still-glaring Pyrrha Nikos, her hands firmly planted on the table.
The serenity on his face told her that his mind was nearly made up, though he was still dealing with a predicament. While she pondered if he would turn her down, Pyrrha was far more terrified at the truth of her situation: She didn't know what he was thinking about.
Unknown to her, the vulpine figured there was more to her than at first glance. Of course, he recalled seeing her before on his way to the city, but...
Have we met before that?
When he opened his eyes to find the young woman staring back at him nervously, he banished the thought for now.
"Alright."
"I'm sorry?"
"I see now that you're serious about this. It's not every day that a human stands up for our kind; I can respect that. However, I must add that this isn't going to be an easy task." Aganju leaned back in his chair, his voice no longer weighed down by prejudice. "From my perspective, it sounds like she might have been taken to a ranch, if not sold..."
Pyrrha noted the grim scowl on his face deepens.
"I'll do whatever it takes to bring her back," she replied, tightening her gloved fists. "She's worth it."
A barely noticeable grin twitched its way onto his client's lips. She was telling the truth. He knew that now. Pyrrha observed as the vulpine stood to his feet, his gaze now matching her own. He stepped around the table, drumming his fingers on the hard oak for a moment before a soft laugh poured out.
"It looks like we have a deal, Miss Nikos." he extended his hand to her. "While I'll need a little more to work with, I can't think of a good reason not to help you."
Aganju didn't catch the subtle flinch that came from Pyrrha. In his mind, whatever came of that arrangement with the asshole royal wasn't his concern. All he cared about was helping a fellow faunus from captivity. As long as that goal was achieved, he wouldn't pry too heavily into the young woman's affairs. Speaking of which, he turned back toward Pyrrha, taking in her features.
As he observed her, he couldn't help but notice her striking beauty. Her vibrant red hair perfectly matched her green eyes, creating a mesmerizing effect. While she was a bit taller than most girls, he found it endearing and not at all off-putting. He wasn't too surprised that she had a suitor, considering how appealing she was, even if it was that faunus-hating dick.
For some odd reason, Aganju couldn't help but feel a hint of jealousy and over-protectiveness given she was betrothed to Cardin Winchester.
Little did he know that Pyrrha was looking at him for a similar reason due to his familiarity.
Like the faunus, Pyrrha couldn't help but sense a familiarity with him, long before their encounter on the woodland path. But, was it simply her mind playing tricks on her?
"So, where should we begin?"
Aganju turned his head, lifting his shoulder in a half-shrug. "A name would be nice..."
"Velvet."
[South-East of Garneta]
"So, this is South Garneta's Ranch..." a young woman wondered out loud as she stepped off from her transport.
"Yes ma'am!" one of the guards replied with vigor as he saluted her. She bowed her head low enough to put the officer at ease before continuing forward.
Golden eyes scanned the interior of the yard, finding solace in the sight of the many prisoners performing hard labor in the snow. Her back length wavy auburn hair flew in the crisp wind as they proceeded to the main building.
The moment she walked into the room, everyone's eyes were fixed on her. Her single silver streak, thigh-high black leather boots, and a red-tattered scarf gave her a radical appearance that perfectly contrasted her blue and white uniform. Though her face was calm, her steps were full of elegance that only those prepared under the military's elite protocol could wield. It was as if she was wearing the perfect mask of a deadly combatant. You could tell that she was well-versed in many skills, honed under the harsh tutelage of the military. However, there was something different about her, something that made her stand out from the rest.
It was her perverse and sadistic nature that she allowed herself to relax into. It was a reminder to everyone in the room that they were dealing with a true force to be reckoned with.
"Madame Esclados! Commander Winchester is waiting for you!" An officer saluted as his standard-issue boots clicked as a result.
"Very well. Where might I find him specifically?" she replied, with a mannerly nod. Though she had an official rank, Carmine adored being called Madame. "I'm eager to get to work."
"He was reported to be in the barracks."
"Excellent."
"I-I... Excuse me, Madame?" the man hesitantly stepped in front of his superior, his face now a mask of dread. "The commander has specifically demanded that he not be disturbed. Our men can... er, I mean, will escort you to the meeting room where you'll be comfortable."
The feminine officer stared at the pitiful excuse for an officer, noting his low rank via his lack of stripes or stars. He was a mere private, trained to follow every order down to the letter. Anything less than absolute loyalty was a death sentence. It was amusing if not annoying. A muscle in her jaw twitched. Her golden orbs flashed dangerously as she watched the poor soul's features pale under her scrutiny.
"I understand completely. You're just doing your job and I shouldn't expect you to break the rules you've sworn to adhere to.." she broke into a soft smile. "But, I wonder if you understand who I am?"
"Y-Yes ma'am! You're Lieutenant-!"
"Lieutenant Carmine Esclados, partner of the commander and leader of the Mistralian Militaries torture and interrogation unit. Do you know what that means?" she waited impatiently as the male guard started to tremble. Even worse, her smile never fell, making her even more foreboding as any others around turned away for fear of the woman's wrath being pointed at them. "I should make an example of you right here for keeping me out in such unsavory weather. Are you aiming for me to catch a cold, maybe?"
"N-No, ma'am!"
"Then, I suggest that you be a good little soldier and let me pass. Otherwise, unless someone of a higher rank gives a damn about an insignificant grunt like you, I could have you court marshaled and sent to work as part of the mine detail for the duration of your time here. And that's me being nice. Understood?"
The man suppressed a shudder as he met his superior's gaze. He couldn't afford to show weakness, not if he wanted to survive in this cutthroat world. As a mere recruit, he knew he was disposable unless he had connections in high places. Despite the fear that gripped him, he stood his ground, refusing to let his nerves get the better of him. Without a word, he stepped aside, watching with steely resolve as the magistrate's violent mask gave way to the dignified persona he'd encountered mere moments ago.
"Thank you kindly, officer," she chuckled softly, patting his cheek before entering the building. "Keep up the good work. You might go far in this outfit."
"You certainly have a way with words, Esclados..."
Her ears perked up from the cocky male that approached her. His short brown hair and blue eyes were a sight she relished. In her eyes, he was a looker and it didn't that he was also the heir of such an establishment either. Her commanding officer, Cardin Winchester crossed his arms with an amused smirk. She saluted him politely before he motioned for her to follow him.
"Forgive me, sir. If we had soldiers and not little boys and girls playing the part, perhaps they would've developed a spine after years of training."
"They all can't be as cruel as you, Lieutenant," Cardin replied, unable to resist the chortle that tickled his throat from such a brash statement. "But, I do see your point. Very few among us have your level of dedication. That's why I requested you to join me."
The two continued to walk with only ample silence accompanying them as they traversed several hallways and corridors. They finally stopped at a room that bore the commander's name and title where the owner ushered his subordinate and partner inside.
Once the door closed, Lieutenant Carmine felt two strong arms wrap around her waist from behind in a gentle and... emotion-driven embrace. Smiling softly, she turned her body around to meet the gaze of her commander... no. She found herself staring into the lustful eyes of Cardin Winchester the man.
"I've missed you..." he whispered, leaning in to capture her lips in a hard and passionate kiss.
Carmine Esclados gladly reciprocated the gesture, shattering their facade within the sanctuary of his private quarters. They milked the moment for all it was worth, their tongues wrestling for dominance. She cupped his face with equal vigor, proving that behind closed doors, they were equals.
Surprisingly, the typically domineering Cardin enjoyed when the woman would take control at times, their taboo actions making it all the more exciting. Their moans and sharp breaths filled the soundproof room, a fact that Cardin was grateful for as he nipped at the woman's neck. She giggled in pleasure, savoring his lips on her delicate skin before he finally pulled away, albeit reluctant.
"You're so bad, darling," she lightly slapped his armored chest.
"Only when it comes to you."
"Still, I highly doubt that you summoned me from Atlas just to make out. What's going on?"
Soft blue eyes blinked slowly at golden gems; Cardin Winchester loved how she got straight to the point. It was one of his favorite qualities about her. But, given the serious tone behind her inquiry, he let out a breath that let Carmine know that something was indeed troubling him.
"It's complicated..." he growled, walking over to his bed where he sat down annoyed.
"It's her, isn't it?"
"Is it that obvious?"
"Cardin, we've known each other... intimately ever since our days at the Mistralian Military Academy. I'd be blind and dumb to believe that you're happy about being engaged to that Nikos girl." she pouted, something she only did around him. "If I can just be honest, I was angry when I heard the news of you two getting hitched. I thought you didn't want me anymore..."
"But it wasn't-!"
"I know," She held up a hand. "After our get-together last year, you made your feelings for me clear. Even now, you challenged General Ironwood just to have me come here. So, let me rephrase the question: What's your plan going forward?"
Cardin Winchester. Commander in the military forces: Heir to the Winchester fortune and assets.
Only the first name meant so much when in the same room as his beloved. He knew things between him and Pyrrha were nothing more than a business transaction, some archaic plot to insert his family into the upper echelon of Anima.
He had no feelings for Pyrrha nor her status as princess of Argus, but he gave little resistance to the arrangements made. It was Carmine he cared about, in fact, the two were a couple long before this transpired. It was truly nothing but dumb luck that he was able to persuade the normally immovable Ironwood.
Nay, it was fate that they were reunited once again.
For now, he watched as the woman placed a hand on her hips, awaiting his response with eager curiosity.
"I have three things I wish to complete before winter ends. Two short terms and one long term."
Having an idea of what the long-term goal was, Carmine shot him a look of twisted intrigue. "What are the other two plans, sir?"
Cardin matched her expression, his lust for control, and perverse domination surfacing.
"I requested you here because I require your special services."
"Professional or personal?" she bit her lips softly.
"Both."