Chapter 13: Rena's Past
Disclaimer: RWBY belongs to Rooster Teeth and Monty Oum, I only own my OCs.
Team RXDY
Draco sleeps in his room at a hotel the faunus team is currently staying at. The sun's rays begin to filter through the curtain. Sitting up he stretches, rubbing his eyes and groggily enters the bathroom, closing and locking the door to take care of business. Once finished he flushes the toilet and splashes water onto his face to wake himself up. Getting dressed he heads for the lobby to eat in the cafe the hotel has.
Settling with eggs, piece of toast, fruit and coffee Draco eats his breakfast while reading the news on his scroll. Eating the meal clean, Draco's mind is filled with his leader. Ever since their encounter with Rena's father he and the others have never seen the stoic faunus smile, always having a neutral face and speaking in a monotone voice. Curiosity chews at the dragon faunus' mind about his enigmatic leader.
Why was Rena stoic all the time? Did something in her past affected her so much she lost her ability to smile? Sure, she's shown affection and gratitude to him, Xavier and Yumi but he wanted to see Rena smile. He can also bet his teammates want to as well.
Speaking of which he decides to go look for Rena wanting to know more about her. He reaches the exit to the lobby when Xavier and Yumi enter to have breakfast as well.
Yumi greeted, "Good morning, Draco. How are you?"
Draco smiled, "I'm doing well, thank you for asking."
Xavier looked around the cafe, "Where's Rena?"
The dragon faunus answered, "Don't know, she wasn't here when I came down. I'm guessing she ate a little earlier than me and probably off somewhere training."
Yumi said, "She always seems to do that in her down time."
Xavier offered, "Maybe her way to stave off boredom since we can't do anything for a while after our battle with those four Grimm."
Yumi suggested, "We should do something together. All of us." Draco pats Yumi on the head, the wolf faunus smiling at the attention as her tail wags.
The dragon faunus resists the urge to laugh loving the cuteness of his female teammate.
He commented, "You really are the personification of cuteness, Yumi. Sin was right anyone would be glad to have you as their girlfriend."
Xavier joked, "You might wanna lay off the patting or I'm gonna faint from cuteness overload."
Yumi said, "Don't ruin the moment."
Draco told them, "Let's go find our team leader. I'm curious about her."
Yumi broke out of her state of la-la land, "We all are. Should we get her something to eat before heading out?"
Xavier nodded, "Yes, who knows if she's eaten yet or not. I think some restaurants are opening up for breakfast." Yumi barely suppresses the whine wanting escape at the loss of patting on her head The three set out searching for Rena after stopping by a restaurant that serves take-out.
The one-eyed faunus proves tough to track until they hear the sounds of battle coming directly ahead of them and sprint toward it. Arriving at a flat terrain they spot Rena swinging her claymore blade in a series of broad strokes, slowly growing sharper as they narrow. The trio also notice Rena's armor laying to her left, leaving her in her short-sleeved shirt, black leggings and boots.
Freeing one hand and holding it out to the side the strange sword Rena used on the Minotaur materializes, forming a hilt she grabs on to. The rest of the blade assembles out of nowhere. Now armed with dual blades Rena swings them in a dance with subtle movements of her body. Activating her semblance she swings her primary blade upward sending an arc of fire then her off-hand blade carving into the ground. She next swings both blades in an X pattern. Letting the secondary blade dissolve into nothing Rena points her free hand in front of her. Flames appear in the form of spears, with a wave of her hand the spears launch. The projectiles move at high-speed.
Without looking at their direction Rena asked, "What do you need?"
Draco said, "How long have you been out here?"
Rena replied, "Since I woke up. I've been an early riser for a long time. I've been training for two hours straight. I can go up to four hours without barely breaking a sweat."
Xavier's face paled at that proclamation, "Four hours? Oh, my Oum, what kind of stamina do you have?"
Rena said, "Impressive stamina."
The ox faunus quickly recovered holding up a bag, "Well, we got you something to eat since we have no idea if you ate yet." Rena stabs Scarlet into the ground point first and walks up to the ox faunus, graciously accepting the bag and pulling the content out.
The meal comprised of two egg sandwiches, an apple and milk. Sitting on a downed log, Rena eats the food savoring the taste. The meal's finished in less than a minute burping in the napkin.
Draco queried, "Rena, can you tell us about yourself? How is it you're always calm and collected? It's like nothing bothers you or no amount of fighting gets under your skin." The one-eyed faunus doesn't answer but at the same time knows she'd be pestered until she told them
Yumi said, "Rena, you can trust us. We won't judge you."
Rena told them, "You wouldn't understand even if I told you."
Xavier challenged, "Try us." Rena looks at him not showing any reaction to his response. She debates on whether she can tell them. If she did, how'd they react or think of her? Would they look at her with disgust or in a new light?
Draco said, "You don't have to be on guard all the time, boss. Let us in and we'll help you."
After a tense minute Rena gestured, "Make yourselves comfortable. This will take a while."
Once her team mates were comfy Yumi said, "We're ready."
Rena stared at them, "Guess I'll start from the beginning. Or at least as far back as I remember."
Flashback, before the events of RWBY
Rena was the student to a master deer faunus swordsman named Gale Newsom.
He stood around 6'6" tall, fair skin with scars covering his left arm, nearly his entire left antler was cut off, 45 years of age, still retaining an impressive physique, short light brown that was starting to gray around the temples, hardened onyx eyes and wore charcoal gray pants, black combat boots and tan colored tunic.
Gale towered over an 8 year old Rena, both stood outside of the deer faunus' home. The red-eyed faunus herself wore similar attire but around her size as a sign of her apprenticeship.
He informed with his arms crossed behind his back, "There are times where you must cut loose and overwhelm your opponent with aggressive offense. Other times you must be patient and take them out one at a time. Strike with the ferocity of an Ursa and precision of a Lancer! You must adapt to your surroundings, using the environment to your advantage and not succumb to tactical tunnel vision. Utilize psychological warfare against your opponents. Get inside their heads instill fear while making them doubt themselves or their beliefs. You decide if they deserve mercy."
Rena tilted her head, "But didn't you say the other day that the enemy isn't going to show you any mercy?"
Gale nodded, "Yes, I did but showing mercy can prove beneficial. Let me explain. It could present an opportunity for you to convince an enemy to join your side. If you succeed, you obtain information about the enemy formation, what they're planning, what rank they have, how influential they are, etc." Rena took in the information with a look of innocence.
Rena said, "That does make sense."
Her mentor furthered, "In addition to..." He stopped when his hearing picked up the sound of heavy footprints along with snarling.
Grabbing Rena's small hand, he ran them into his house closing and locking the door and hiding.
Rena whispered, "What is it, Master?"
Gale whispered back, "Ssh, keep it down. There's Grimm outside. They're attracted to negative emotions like fear or anger." They both heard the snarling get closer, louder. Additional footsteps follow leading Gale to suspect it was a pack of Beowolves. His suspicion was confirmed after the Alpha Beowolf howls, the noise sent chills down Rena's spine. To her it sounded like the cry of a demon.
The two stayed put waiting for the Grimm to pass. Gale looked at the floor ahead of him as the sun's light shines through the glass of the kitchen window to see the shadow of the Alpha Beowolf appear, its evil red eyes tinting the wooden floor. The deer faunus felt a drop of sweat falling down his cheek as he prayed for the Grimm to pass. The Alpha Beowolf punched the window sending shards of glass onto the floor.
'Fuck, they're coming in.' He thought.
Gale looked at his student whispering, "Follow me and stay low." They crawl making as little noise as possible while the Beowolves jumped through the window and into the house. Rena and Gale kept moving to different hiding positions staying out of sight while the Grimm wandered through the house. Rena hid in a closet and slid the door shut, locking it. Through the slits she watched the Alpha Beowolf enter getting her first look of the Creatures of Grimm.
The Beowolf growled moving its head in search of its prey. The creature vanished from sight making the faunus wonder if it left but soon proven wrong when the Alpha Beowolf reappeared in front of the closet prompting Rena to press against the side wall covering her mouth.
'Go away, you overgrown canine.' She thought.
She next heard it sniff the air, looking to catch her scent. Rena prayed it wouldn't. Her ears picked up the sound of some object being tossed catching the Alpha Beowolf's attention. Releasing a low growl the monster exited the room. Closing her eyes in relief Rena slid down to the floor. Taking a risk she looked out the slits again seeing if there were other Beowolves nearby. Not seeing a shadow, she quietly wandered through the main floor reaching the kitchen. Planting herself against the wall, she poked her head out looking into the kitchen. She spotted a second Beowolf in the entrance searching for its prey. Moving quickly and as quietly as she could Rena stared at the sink, the top of her head colliding with the handle of a frying pan, knocking it off the stove and crashing to the floor, seeing the Grimm's ear twitch at the sound, Rena quickly crawled toward the cabinet underneath the kitchen sink closing the door. Struggling to calm her pounding heart Rena waited as the Beowolf sniffed at the fallen pan. Cracking the cabinet door open slightly to peer outside Rena saw the Grimm turn around sniffing the air again. Closing the door she waited for the monster to leave.
'Don't turn this way, please.' She mentally prayed.
Her eyes widened as the Beowolf moved closer to the door. A whistling catches the lupine Grimm's attention.
Growling softly the Grimm exited the kitchen heading for the source of the whistle.
Gale used a club to bash a Beowolf's skull in, cracking another's using a hard swing. The Alpha Beowolf reached his location. Spotting its fallen pack at the hands of the hunter the Alpha Beowolf released a howl of rage. The two battled, Gale avoiding the monster's fangs and claws, the lupine Grimm did the same evading his strikes then caught the club, tossing it and smacked the hunter to the ground with a hard strike from its clawed hand. Disoriented from the attack, through his wavy vision Gale saw the Alpha Beowolf nearing him mouth opening, saliva dripping from deadly teeth. Out of the corner of his eye the deer faunus spotted Rena sneaking up and leaped onto the beast's back. The Alpha Beowolf shook to rid itself of the rider, eventually grabbing hold of Rena. Bringing her around to stare at her, it snarled baring its menacing teeth at her. Rena drove the kitchen knife she obtained into one of the Grimm's eyes. The monster unleashed a wail of pain dropping Rena. Gale used this opportunity to retrieve his club and charged at the Alpha Beowolf. He swung his club knocking his target off its feet and bashed its skull in. Panting he watched the Alpha Beowolf vaporize.
Rena asked, "So that was a Grimm?"
Gale confirmed, "Yes. They're attracted to emotions like anger, hatred or rage like I said earlier. Their origin is unknown and there could be thousands of different types. They have no aura. If you come across one, fight like hell. Beowolves and Deathstalkers are the most encountered. Oh, and thank you for that distraction."
Rena nodded, "You're welcome, Master."
Gale informed, "We'll resume your training tomorrow."
Rena asked, "What about the kitchen window?"
Gale replied, "We'll worry about it later." The next day, Gale started Rena's sword training, using wooden swords for the time being. He felt his student wasn't ready to use a real one yet. Little did the faunus know her sword training was going to be worse than her physical training.
The two stood a few feet apart, wooden swords held out in front of them.
Gale started, "Today is the beginning of your sword training, Rena." As they started Gale blocked each of his student's strikes, "You're sweeping in broad strokes, leaving yourself wide open. Tighten them otherwise you won't last in battle." He stopped an overhead chop with a one-handed grip and pushed her onto her butt. Rena got back up and executed a horizontal swipe. This went on for two hours, Rena panting as sweat dripped down her chin. She was on wobbly legs from this sparring lesson, falling to one knee and using her wooden sword to keep herself up.
'My Oum, this is hard. I never expected this training regimen be so demanding.' She thought.
Gale asked, "Is that all you got?"
Rena looked at him despite her condition, "No, I can still fight!" She got up ignoring her body's protest, "Come on, let's contin-" The faunus fell forward utterly exhausted, though thankfully Gale caught her.
The faunus' eyes opened halfway, "I...will...defeat you one day."
Gale smiled, "You will." For the next ten years, the two grew close. Rena's stamina, endurance and physical strength grew with each training session and Gale taught her the history of Remnant. Or at least what he knew, how to survive in the wild, etc. He noticed his student was maturing slightly faster than a normal person, asking in a joking manner if she was undergoing a huge growth spurt. Rena would look at her reflection in the mirror to realize he was right. Besides muscle coming in, her figure was filling out nicely. Of course, she just shrugged it off not worrying about it.
She proved to be a quick learner, studying her mistakes and what she needed to improve on without Gale's further input. Something that'll prove beneficial in the future.
When she turned thirteen, Gale felt Rena was ready to use an actual sword. He gave her a spare sword he kept while he used the other, keeping both sharp and in perfect condition.
As they fought, Gale discovered Rena's fighting style was aggressive using overwhelming offense and relied on tight, efficient moves with deflection and parries mixed in while using the "wait them out" strategy, meaning she'd let her opponent become tired or frustrated then unleash a series of rapid attacks. Rena also got her aura unlocked and discovered her semblance.
She could last longer in battle and almost stand toe-to-toe with her mentor. However, Gale's combat experience played in his favor, defeating Rena. Yet he could easily tell she was getting closer.
An additional five years passed and Rena, now eighteen, noticed Gale coughing sometimes almost non-stop for one minute. Every time she asked what's wrong, Gale pushed it aside telling Rena not to worry about it but the faunus was skeptical.
One day, while eating lunch, she was asked to come see Gale outside and bring her sword.
She asked, "What is it?"
Gale said, "Today is your final lesson. Fight with everything you've got."
Rena queried, "What do you mean?" The next thing she knew, she was on her back foot deflecting Gale's sudden attack. The look on his face unnerved Rena. The battle was fierce and intense with Rena launching counterattacks including physical strikes. Bruises littered Rena's cheeks and her legs hurt, thankfully her aura absorbed the brunt of the attacks.
Rena swooped around Gale's diagonal swing and scored a hit on his back leaving a cut that drew blood. She shook off her brief moment of surprise and blocked a counterattack. The faunus waited for her opponent to become fatigued. And eventually Gale did, becoming slower in attacks and sloppier. Entering a blade block Rena's strength allowed her to push Gale despite his feet planted in the ground.
Gale taunted, "Is this all you can do? I taught you better than this." Not letting the taunt get to her, Rena shoved Gale back pressing the attack.
She unleashed a series of quick, tight swings slowly overwhelming Gale's defense. Wrestling his blade out of his hands, Rena shoved him back again quickly closing the distance the faunus thrusted her weapon forward oblivious to the smile forming on Gale's face. The distinct sound of steel piercing flesh echoed through the air. Rena snapped out of her fight or flight mode realizing what she just did.
Gale fell to his knees bringing his student with him embracing her.
Rena asked, "I don't understand. Why?"
Gale said, "Because I had an incurable disease that'd ultimately kill me in a few more years. I wanted to leave this world on my terms not the disease."
Rena stated, "Then all that coughing?"
Her teacher nodded, "Yes, it's part of the disease."
Rena said, "All those years of bonding, training, did they mean nothing to you?" There was pain of betrayal and confusion laced in her voice.
Gale replied, "They meant everything to me, Rena. I don't regret them at all. I taught you everything you need to know to survive on your own. There's nothing more to teach you, Rena."
Rena choked, "G-Gale."
Gale said, "Of all the students I've trained, you were the greatest. This fight was the final lesson. Be strong...Rena." He slid off the sword and to the ground, blood gathering beneath him. The blade in Rena's hands shook as her mind tried to process what happened. She then lowered her head the blade falling from her hands and clanging to the ground. Sobs escaped her. Her faunus hearing picked up the sound of Grimm, attracted to her anguish.
Rena said, "You dare...you dare show your faces?! I'll kill you!" Picking up her blade she charged, swinging her blade, limbs fly through the air as Rena slaughtered them. She screamed in sadness and heartbreak throughout the whole process. Two minutes in, the Grimm started backing up in actual fear at the vengeful faunus.
One Ursa let out a panicked roar and turned around to retreat.
Rena glared at the bear Grimm, "You won't escape from me!" She bolted toward the Ursa, slicing one of its legs off then drove her blade through its skull. Eventually there's no longer any Grimm in sight. Her entire body shook like she was experiencing an earthquake. She screamed as loud as her lungs allowed into the air, letting out her pain, anger and hurt. Soon her throat ached from the screaming, no longer crying because there were no more tears to shed. The following hour was spent burying Gale using his swords as makeshift headstones
The faunus whispered, "Rest in peace, Gale." She wandered the corners of Anima, not knowing where she's going.
On her own for the first time in her life, Rena knew she needed to find work to support herself plus gaining a new weapon. She decided to enlist as a mercenary.
Four years into her job Rena took on increasingly dangerous missions ranging from assassinations, intimidation, abduction, purging towns infested with Grimm, capturing or killing wanted criminals and ex-hunters/huntresses, human or faunus. Some nearly costed her life.
Her current mission was for an antique collector, the items he wanted was on a cargo ship in dock at Atlas, her current location. Getting past the dock security was easy and hopped onto the docked cargo ship. Not knowing how long it'd be until the ship departed Rena rushed to the cargo hold evading security which was tight making Rena conclude whatever cargo this ship was carrying it must be really important. Finally making it to the hold Rena searched the crates. She's successful in her objective securing a large crate. Now the question was how to get it out of the cargo hold and onto a transport truck. Her ears picked up the sound of a crane turning to her location and lowering, the grappling claw opening. When the claw secured a grip of the crate, Rena jumped onto it wrapping her arms and legs around the metal. The crane operator pulled the lever lifting the crate out, turn and lowered the crate onto the ramp of a transport truck. Rena jumped off the claw and hopped into the passenger seat waiting for the driver to come back from whatever he's doing. The driver did, climbing into the driver seat and turned the engine key.
He felt cold steel pressed against his throat as Rena warned, "One quick slash is all that's needed to sever the artery and you bleed out, dying as you choke on your own blood."
The driver asked, "Who the hell are you?"
Rena replied, "My client wants that cargo you're carrying, and you will comply. Refuse and I'll gut you like a fish."
The driver said, "You don't have the..." He felt the sword press slightly further into his throat, "Okay, okay, I'll comply. What are the coordinates?" Rena told him the coordinates and drove.
The store owner of the antique shop was a middle-aged man who spent his youth collecting artifacts about the early life of Remnant including weapons from the Great War. A cargo truck parked up in front of his store and the driver exited with Rena pressing the tip of her blade on the back of his neck.
She ordered, "Open the tailgate."
The driver protested, "No." He next got whacked with the broadside of Rena's blade.
She demanded, "Open the tailgate now or I will cut your balls off." That seemed to do the trick as the driver lowered the tailgate allowing Rena to tear off the lid and unload the contents for the storekeeper.
He nodded, "Yes, these are the items mentioned by a friend of mine. You did well, Rena. As promised, here's your reward." He paid four thousand lien and Rena gave the truck driver half of it.
She said, "None of this ever happened. If your boss asks why you're late, tell him you had a flat tire. Understood?"
The driver looked at the money then to Rena, "Y-yeah. Nothing happened. I had a flat tire." After the crate's empty he closed the tailgate and drove away.
Rena turned to the storekeeper, "I bid you farewell, sir."
'Hmph, the power of money.' She mentally added.
The storekeeper smiled, "You too, young one." Stopping at a cafe Rena looked at her attire, feeling that a change in wardrobe was in order. She needed armor and durable one at that.
Fortunately, she was in luck. During her stay at a hotel Rena overheard a conversation about some high-quality armor underneath Mountain Glenn, many have attempted retrieving it but none were successful. Perhaps the faunus should try. She reached the door when she felt someone grope her butt she whipped around, kicking her boot up and struck the man in the face.
She walked up to him, "Didn't your mom tell you not to touch women without their consent? No? You're about to find out what happens to those who don't." Rena beated him to a bloody pulp then threw him out. The whole cafe fell silent with some staring with open mouths at the display of brutality making a mental note to not touch her.
She tossed the receptionist some lien, "Sorry about the mess."
The following day she hired a tour guide to help navigate through the depths of Mountain Glenn, the tour guide using a flashlight to see. The further down they went the more tense her escort became. Soon they reached the interior of the mountain and Rena, thanks to her faunus vision, spotted something.
A sword lied on a flat rock and set of armor rested next to it.
Rena advanced toward it studying the weapon.
It was a claymore and upon asking her guide to shine his flashlight on the armor, she discovered the color as blue with specks of dust covering both items. Brushing the dust off, Rena took the sword into her hands.
'This will serve me well.' She thought with a nod.
Rena took the armor and put it on, finding it fit her perfectly. She next performed a few swings of her new sword testing its motion.
Satisfied the faunus told the guide, "Got what I came for. Let's get out of here." Upon returning to Vale City Rena paid the guide and headed for a clothing store, needing a new set.
Stepping foot inside she walked around seeing what caught her eye, ultimately settling on a short-sleeved black shirt, black leggings and dark brown boots. Paying the toll Rena departed.
Taking a break at a local cafe she drank water, gently twirling the glass.
Despite her growing wealth and high demand Rena felt a void in her heart. Though she never expressed it publicly she craved companionship. Wanted friends. Ever since she accidentally killed her mentor she felt lonely. No one to talk to, eat together with or talked about whatever's bugging her. The fact that some played with her emotions or betrayed whatever trust they had with her didn't help either.
Right as she took another sip Rena saw out of the corner of her eye a group of faunus walking past the cafe holding up signs like "Faunus deserve rights too" or "Don't discriminate us". Curious Rena downed the last of her drink and paid before leaving. Making her way through the crowd the red-eyed faunus saw a cat faunus no older than five standing in the front seeming to be the most vocal. In front of them was a representative from some dust company. Looking at the initials on the man's jacket, Rena saw the name Schnee Dust Company. Rena remembered hearing stories about it. The company used faunus as labor force in the Dust mines and worked too hard with little fair treatment. Of course having never seen in action, she kept quiet about it. The faunus saw the guard that escorted the representative walk up to the cat faunus and raised its baton to repel her when Rena caught it.
Rena said, "Attacking children? Have you no morals?"
The guard ordered, "Let go!"
Rena told him, "Don't judge my kind based on our appearance. So what if we have ears, tail or better senses, we're every bit as human as you."
The SDC representative commanded, "At ease, soldier. This is all a misunderstanding." He walked over, "You can let go now, Miss." Rena did so.
She queried, "Now tell me why you're using faunus as labor in your Dust mines."
The man cleared his throat, "Given our...lack of proper resources, faunus are cheap labor."
Rena tilted her head, "Have you ever considered using more efficient means for the mining operations? Or negotiated with faunus activists for better treatment?"
The representative said, "Well...no but..."
Rena said, "Why don't you tell your boss offer alternatives to labor resources?" She gestured to the crowd, "Look at them. Do they look like robots? No. They're living beings too. Give them equal rights. Don't discriminate them. Try negotiations, I'm sure you can find a solution." Rena had no idea what was causing her to say this. Perhaps it's sympathy.
The cat faunus next to Rena looked up at the taller faunus with awe-filled eyes, amazed by her conviction and desire to stand up for their kind.
The representative rubbed his chin, "Hmm, I'll relay your message to my boss. If he agrees, we can arrange a meeting with some activists. Come, Mel. We're leaving." The human duo left while the faunus activists celebrate what they perceived as victory for their rally.
'Things can be resolved peacefully not with bloodshed.' Rena thought with a barely audible sigh.
Turning on the heel of her boot she departed the area looking for a cleaner shop to wash her newly bought clothing. To her dismay the one in this district of Vale City is closed for renovation. She'll have to look elsewhere.
She felt a presence and looked down seeing the same cat faunus she saw in the rally. The two made eye contact, Rena could see the awe in the much younger faunus' amber eyes.
The cat faunus said, "Hi, there. I heard you talk to that human back at the rally. The way you spoke was inspirational and passionate."
Rena knelt down to her level, "I'm a faunus too despite my appearance so I can see where you're coming from."
The cat faunus held out her small hand, "Wanna be friends? I'm Blake Belladonna. What's yours?" A small laugh escaped her, Rena felt no ill intent from Blake.
She answered, "My name's Rena. Nice to meet you, Blake. Sure, we'll be friends." The stoic faunus woman shook hands with the cat faunus. Rena felt a sense of awkwardness hit her, an adult becoming friends with a child. Little did she know the sequence of events had been set in motion that would change her life.
A male voice called out, "Blake! Blake, where are you?" Looking ahead Rena saw a tall, muscular man likely in his late twenties to early thirties with short black hair, small beard and yellow eyes. He wore an open violet vest with white fur trim that showed off his chest, extended fingerless gloves that reached his upper arms and brown leather boots. He also wore an emblem attached to a few leather straps and shoulder pads. His species was a Puma or some other big cat faunus
His companion was obviously a cat faunus and his wife, the same age as him, had short black hair and yellow eyes and three gold piercings on her cat ears - two on her right, and one on her left. She wore a black hakama and sandals with white tabi socks. Over her outfit, she wore a black shrug with a long right sleeve and a short left sleeve, gold-leaf trim adorning the opening on the front. She wore long, black arm warmers that extend to the middle finger. The left warmer had a purple band tied around the top and a pair of gold bangles around the wrist. Around her waist was a black and gold sash that trailed behind her, with a gold flower-shaped buckle at the end.
Blake said, "Mommy, Daddy!"
The man lectured, "How many times have we told you not to go run off like that? I was worried!"
Black told him, "But I wanted to participate in the rally, Daddy!"
Her parent said, "Next time let one of us be with you. Who knows what could've happened."
Blake lowered her head, "I understand, Daddy."
The man directed his gaze to Rena, "Thank you for protecting my daughter. What's your name?"
Blake perked up, "Oh. Mommy, Daddy, this is my new friend Rena."
The man said, "Hello, Rena. I'm Ghira Belladonna and this lovely lady next to me is my wife Kali Belladonna. We're Blake's parents."
Rena waved with a neutral tone, "Nice to meet you. If I may ask, Mr. Belladonna, what's that emblem on your chest?"
Ghira pointed at the said object, "Oh, this? I'm High Leader of the White Fang."
Rena hummed, "White Fang? Never heard of it."
Ghira explained, "It's an organization advocating for faunus rights. We seek to establish peace between humans and faunus."
Rena complimented, "That's very noble."
Ghira offered, "Would you like to join?" Rena looked Ghira in the eyes. She saw no ulterior motive, his goal was genuine.
She said, "I'll think about it."
Ghira nodded, "Of course. It's your decision. Why don't you come with us? It looks like you could use some company."
Rena said, "I'm used to traveling alone, Mr. Belladona."
Kali smiled at her, "Can you at least stay for dinner? Blake would love it." Looking at the younger cat faunus Rena saw Blake giving her a hopeful expression.
Rena agreed, "I suppose I can stay for one night."
Ghira nodded, "Follow us. We were about to head home." Rena followed the Belladonnas toward an airship that flew them to White Fang HQ in Mistral.
Rena said, "Tell me more about the White Fang, Mr. Belladonna."
Ghira let out a small laugh, "Haha, no need to be formal, Rena. Like I said earlier, we seek unity and peace between humans and faunus through non-violent means such as mass rallies. I believe violence is not the answer to resolve things."
Rena tilted her head slightly, "There are people out there who disagree with you, Ghira. They'll take advantage of you. There are individuals who'll walk over others to get ahead, using cut-throat means. Sometimes the only way they stop is either put them behind bars or put them down."
Ghira nodded solemnly, "Yeah, that's unfortunate. We have received a few threats but nothing serious. But, I remain optimistic that we'll succeed in our mission." They spent the whole trip talking until the captain informed they've reached Mistral. The Belladonnas led Rena to the organization's HQ. Walking through the main hallway, Rena saw other faunus likely members of the White Fang place a fist over their chests showing their respect to the High Leader. They next shot curious looks at Rena wondering who she was and few captivated by her beauty. Although a cold glare from her sent the message across not to try anything.
Kali turned to Rena, "I'm sure you must be exhausted, I'll lead you to a room."
Rena took in the interior, "This place is huge."
Kali nodded, "Sure is." They soon reached the room, "Here we are. Blake's room is next to yours. Ghira and I sleep in the main chambers straight down the hallway. I'll let you get comfortable and unpack."
Rena said, "The only thing to unpack are these clothes I bought." That night the group ate dinner then chatted for a while before heading for bed.
Removing her armor and clothes until she was left in her undergarments Rena climbed into bed, placing the covers over her. During sleep Rena's head moved left and right as she experienced memories of her missions. The faunus' eyes snap open, swiftly turning in all directions to sense any danger.
She said, "Just a bad dream. Calm down, Rena." Sighing the faunus laid back down to sleep again.
The next morning Rena got up early to train, donning her armor then headed to an open space that apparently served as a training area. Drawing her sword Rena swung in multiple directions with lethal speed and precision. Holding Scarlet at waist height in both hands, angled downward and pointed to the side Rena counted to three in her head and rapidly swung at her imaginary opponent. She relaxed and felt a presence, directing her gaze to the entrance of the training area she spotted Ghira.
Rena greeted, "Morning, Ghira."
The High Leader greeted back, "Morning, Rena. Training so early?"
The faunus' face remained stoic, "I always do."
Ghira commented, "Your movements are fluid like you were dancing."
Rena said, "Lots of practice will do that."
Ghira requested, "Wanna spar? I'd like to test you."
Rena replied, "Sure." She watched him make his way over and removed his vest then claws emerged from his fingertips.
The High Leader grinned, "Let's see what you can do."
Rena twirled her claymore around then held it in front of her, "Come at me." Starting on the defense Rena used tight moves to maximize coverage.
She blocked each of Ghira's strikes waiting for an opening the Belladonna dodged an uppercut and found himself on the defense as Rena unleashed a series of rapid strikes meant to bash through an opponent's defense. Of course, Rena didn't want to go all-out in case she injured Ghira. The White Fang High Leader caught Scarlet in his hands, halting Rena's counterattack. The two stood on even ground throughout most of their spar impressed by one another's skill. Ducking a horizontal slash Rena nailed a drop kick on Ghira, staggering the bigger faunus. He looked ahead to see Rena charging him ramming into his chest Ghira dug his feet into the floor stopping the attack. He lifted Rena and tossed her in the opposite direction the red-eyed faunus landed on her feet and charged again switching the angle of her next attack striking Ghira's temple with the broad side of her sword then his kneecap and finished with an open palm strike to his face knocking Ghira off his feet. She pointed Scarlet at his face silently demanding he surrendered. Unknown to the Belladonna she was holding back. Rena knew Ghira was tough as he was leader of the White Fang but she didn't want to cause trouble for the organization.
Ghira said, "You win." Nodding Rena stepped back allowing him to stand and continued, "You're quite the fighter. Whoever trained you was a seasoned veteran." Rena didn't express her remorse over killing Gale even if it was of his design.
Rena told him, "After contemplating your offer last night I've decided I will join the White Fang. Your intentions are noble and seek to benefit our kind with humans. I'll help you achieve that dream, Ghira."
The Belladonna smiled, "Great. Welcome to the White Fang, Rena." He shook hands with her, his bigger one engulfing hers, "Something tells me we'll get along well."
'I hope so.' Rena thought.
Following a shower and washing her clothes including the ones she bought Rena joined the Belladonnas for breakfast. Even with them talking Rena stayed quiet throughout the conversation not knowing what to say.
Kali noticed their newest member's quietness, "Something wrong, Rena?"
The faunus shook her head, "No, everything's fine."
Blake asked with excitement, "Daddy said you're joining the White Fang? Is it true?!"
Rena looked at her, "It's true, Blake." She's suddenly enveloped in a big hug from the cat faunus who had a bright smile on her face.
She said, "I'm so happy!" For some unknown reason Rena wrapped her arms around Blake making Ghira and Kali smile at each other. The entire week was spent getting used to being among her kind again but she was most comfortable around the Belladonnas. Though every time she ventured out of the White Fang HQ Rena was hit on by flirts trying to woo her with charming words or some asking her hand in marriage. Initially she declined their offers saying she wasn't interested. Some flirts proved more stubborn and a warning didn't deter them so force was needed.
All flirts men and women ended up in a hospital bed or in the ground.
That weekend someone made a threat to the Belladonna family and Ghira went to deal with the threat. Rena was looking at her growing wealth when the faunus heard a knocking on her door.
Blake said, "Rena? You in there?"
Rena asked without a change of expression, "What is it?"
Blake wondered, "Can I sleep in your room? I'm too scared to sleep on my own."
Rena nodded, "Yes, you can." The two slept in Rena's room that night with Rena holding Blake protectively a smile formed on the cat faunus' face. Kali stared at the scene quietly giggling at them. The next morning the faunus asked Kali if she could help cooking not wanting to feel like a free loader. Kali told her it wasn't needed but Rena wanted to help out as sort of her way to prove herself to the Belladonnas.
Kali said, "All right. Listen to my instructions, okay?" A silent nod from Rena told Kali she had the red-eyed faunus' attention. Rena turned out to be a quick learner cooking eggs just right but kept hers runny.
By the time Ghira and his daughter entered the kitchen, they're greeted by the sight of prepared breakfast along with pieces of toast, apple and milk or tea.
Ghira greeted, "Good morning, honey." He walked over kissing his wife, "Did you make this?"
Kali said, "Yes though Rena helped." The mentioned faunus met his gaze nodding to confirm Kali's claim.
Sitting down to eat the group tasted the food, their taste buds exploding in euphoria. Rena dipped her bread into the yolk. The meal was devoured within minutes.
Ghira used the napkin to wipe his mouth and complimented, "The meal was delicious, honey. You did well for your first time cooking, Rena."
Rena said, "Thank you, Ghira but I mainly helped."
Kali shook her head, "Nonsense, sweetie. You cooked perfectly." Rena accepted the compliment feeling a sense of pride.
She next asked her husband, "Did you ever find the person who made the threat?"
Ghira said, "No. He never came forward."
Rena proposed, "Let me find him. I'll have a chat with him to ensure that person never threatens you or your family."
Ghira told her, "Violence isn't always the answer."
Rena said, "I know but I want to make him get the point." She stood and headed for the exit.
Kali asked, "Where you going?"
The faunus replied, "To train."
Blake said, "Why don't you play with me?"
Rena turned to look at the younger faunus, "Play?"
Blake nodded, "Mm-hm. You need to relax every now and then otherwise you'll burn out."
Rena said, "I wouldn't be a good playmate. I've never played with anyone."
Blake tilted her head, "You haven't?"
Rena said, "My line of work leaves very little downtime."
Blake smiled, "Well, that changes today." Suddenly a White Fang member charged into the room.
He alerted, "High Leader! We have a problem!"
Ghira asked, "What is it?"
The White Fang member said, "A village has come under attack by Grimm. What's more is that we discovered a woman hiding in one of the buildings."
Rena offered, "Let me handle this, Ghira. I've faced Grimm before."
Ghira asked his fellow White Fang member, "Where's your group located?"
His sub-ordinate told him, "In a village northeast of the capital."
Ghira ordered, "Rena, go there and save what's left of the team. Also find out the woman's identity and return with her."
Rena answered, "As you wish. I'll return before the day's done." She stood up and followed the White Fang member to the village northeast of the Mistral capital.
When they reached the target area Rena took in the scene used to the sight of blood. A roar bellowed through the air and the two ran forward. Reaching the area they both see a Beowolf about to strike another White Fang member shielding the woman the unit discovered.
He shielded the woman from the Beowolf who raised its clawed paw to strike when a red line appeared in the creature's neck. The head snapped off and the body collapsed onto its side.
Rena briefly glared at the corpse then the White Fang member.
He asked, "Who are you?"
The faunus replied, "The name's Rena. High Leader Belladonna sent me."
Her objective sighed, "Thank Oum. Name's Kalin Walter, I'm a deer faunus. My men were investigating this village when we were attacked by Grimm I'm the only survivor, my men didn't make it. This woman next to me is Selene Maelstrom. We were attacked the moment I discovered her."
Rena said, "Let's head back." It's not long before they return to the HQ.
Ghira asked, "You okay, Kalin?"
The deer faunus said, "I'm fine, High Leader. Although I'm the sole survivor of my unit. It was fortunate Rena found us in time."
Ghira confirmed, "Yes, I indeed sent her. You did well for your first mission, Rena."
Rena placed a fist over her heart, "Thank you, Ghira."
The Belladona said, "At ease, my dear." He next directed his gaze to the mysterious woman, "So your name is Selene Maelstrom. Interesting choice."
The now mentioned woman tensed, "Please don't hurt me!"
Ghira said, "Relax, young one. I mean you no harm. Although could you tell us why you were hiding in the village?"
Selene was hesitant so Kalin explained, "She told me someone was after her for some reason. Grimm were chasing her by the time we reached it. My men fought valiantly but were overrun leaving me the sole survivor."
Ghira hummed, "Interesting. How about you stay here for the time being, Selene? You'll be safer here than wandering. Who knows if your attacker is still out there."
Selene said, "It'd be for the best."
Ghira smiled, "Great. Rena."
The faunus asked, "Yes, sir?"
The Belladonna ordered, "I'm placing Selene in your care. You'll serve as her bodyguard during her stay."
Rena acknowledged, "Understood." She turned around, "Follow me, Selene. I'll show you to your room." Rena escorted Selene through the hallways having memorized the layout of the building.
They soon reached their destination.
Rena said, "This will be your room. Mine is just a few walks away. Don't worry about Ghira. He may look intimidating but he's actually a kind man. He seeks peace between humans and faunus. As he ordered I'm your bodyguard. I will ensure no harm comes to you." She then looked at the woman.
She appeared to be in her late twenties, stood a bit shorter than Rena, fair skin, her bust was somewhere in the C cup range, slender build, enchanting blue eyes, white hair tied in a messy bun due to the running and elegant blue robe that was torn in some areas.
Selene said nervously, "Um...thank you, Rena. You're a kind person." Rena didn't show any response to that.
'Kind? Me?' She thought.
That evening was spent getting to know Selene better, trying to ease her anxiety.
During her escort to the main room where Ghira requested Rena's presence some White Fang members appeared in front of them.
A bear faunus greeted, "Hello, gorgeous. Want some company?"
Rena said, "I decline your offer."
His comrade insisted, "Come on, Rena. Don't be a party pooper, we'll show you a good time."
Rena warned, "I'm not going to ask again. Move aside, High Leader Belladona is waiting for me."
The bear faunus placed a hand on Rena's shoulder, "No, I insist you come with us." Rena grabbed his hand in a vice-like grip earning her a scream of pain as the bear faunus felt the bones in his wrist popping then tossed aside. They step through the group when Rena suddenly felt a hand grope her butt making her stop.
'Guess they'll have to learn the hard way.' She thought.
Spinning on her boot heel Rena popped her knuckles and the White Fang members quiver under her cold gaze.
A dust cloud and fists were seen while screams echoed through the hallway including one of the guys screaming, "Ah, my leg!" Selene watched with a sweat drop though she couldn't blame Rena's reaction.
Eventually Rena walked back over to Selene dusting her hands off, "Don't touch me again otherwise you'll find yourselves buried six feet under. Come on, Selene. Ghira's waiting."
Selene nodded, "R-right." The two depart leaving the perverts behind with swirls in their eyes, lumps on their heads, swollen cheeks, broken limbs and some missing teeth.
Reaching the room Rena queried, "You need something, Ghira?"
Ghira nodded, "Yes, Rena. I'm heading on an escort mission and would you like to join me."
Rena nodded back, "Very well. Selene will be joining us I take it?"
Ghira smiled, "Of course." He suddenly face faulted, "And while on that topic did you have to brutalize my men on your way here?"
Rena stated nonchalantly, "Those faunus? I warned them but they wouldn't listen. They're lucky they got off with only the injuries I gave them. If they pull that again, I won't be so merciful. I hate perverts, Ghira."
The High Leader said, "I'll have a talk with them. Just don't go that again, please."
Rena replied, "Can't make any guarantees. Anyway, let's get moving." After informing Kali of where they're going, they head out with a small contingency group.
Walking through a forest, Rena moved her head about on alert for ambushes having experienced dozens herself prior to joining the White Fang. She's proven right when she told the group to jump back escaping a surprise attack.
It was a group of ex-hunters turned wanted criminals. They were experienced fighters to boot.
Rena and Ghira were able to hold their own against the attackers and Selene used lightning attacks while her eyes were aflame getting the White Fang members' attention.
The ex-hunters were ultimately defeated.
Rena pointed Scarlet at the leader, "You're beaten. Fighting any further is useless. Take your men and leave, human. No one has to die. Don't make me strike you down."
The lead ex-hunter grunted, "You'll regret sparing us, faunus." The White Fang watched them leave, Ghira sighing in relief that no blood was spilled.
They resumed heading for the objective soon revealing it to be a negotiation with a human group that shared sympathy with the way faunus were being treated and desired to help any way they could. Ghira and the leader of the activists reached an agreement, shaking hands to seal the deal. Ghira felt a sense of accomplishment fill him knowing he was one step closer to achieving his goal.
Throughout her time with the White Fang, Rena began opening up, trusted more easily and smiling more often. At least when around the Belladonnas. She developed a close bond with them, even became a big sister to Blake despite not being biologically related. She highly respected them and in turn the Belladonnas respected her. They treated Rena like she was a part of the family.
Family. That word felt alien yet filled her with a warmth she hadn't felt in her life not even with the bond she had with Gale.
Other members of the White Fang came to known Rena as a mentor some even commenting she could be Ghira's successor one day.
When Blake turned ten Rena decided to take her as a student teaching her how to fight. Rena also helped Blake discover her semblance along with unlocking her aura. During her training sessions Rena patiently taught her not to fall for her opponent's taunts or threats. She did spar sessions with Blake when the cat faunus forged her Variant Ballistic Chain Scythe named Gambol Shroud. The sessions ended with Rena as the winner. But she used it as motivation for Blake to get stronger.
The White Fang recruited new members, the two most prominent being a Bengal tiger faunus named Sienna Khan and a bull faunus named Adam Taurus. The latter had an aura Rena didn't like and voiced it to Ghira.
Those next five years weren't without hurdles.
The group still faced criticism and some confrontations ended with bloodshed something Ghira disapproved of, usually the result of Adam's so-called "self-defense". He reprimanded the bull faunus on more than one occasion, but Sienna Khan approved it.
Arguably the biggest hurdle Rena faced was Ghira stepping down as leader of the White Fang after being offered to become Chieftain of Menagerie. This didn't sit well with Rena going as far as pleading with him to reconsider. She voiced her concern of the damage Adam's violent tendencies will cause if Ghira stepped down. To her disappointment Ghira said he knew when to step aside for new leaders to come forth.
Almost immediately after Sienna took over, Rena watched the White Fang's mentality change before her eyes. Instead of peaceful protests they began raiding Dust stores or trains, violent riots and even attacking people. Khan told her it was for obtaining respect. Rena refuted, saying respect was earned not handed. Like Ghira she warned Khan of Adam's violent streak and that he'd in all likelihood overthrow her. Sienna didn't heed her warning stating if he did she'll make him earn it.
Rena retained her bond with the Belladonna patriarchs and watched over Blake.
During a rally speech in Menagerie, Rena hid her disgust at what the White Fang had devolved into voicing it with Blake's parents at one point coming close to snapping at Ghira for not heeding her warning and that none of this would've happened had the male Belladonna remained High Leader. However, she held the urge back not wanting to scare Blake or them.
Speaking of which the cat faunus felt a tense feeling whenever Rena and Adam went on missions together getting into arguments over their beliefs. Some arguments ended with Adam attacking Rena though the red-eyed faunus ended fights quickly due to her experience and calmness. That didn't stop her from warning Adam his hatred for humans will get him killed one day along with toying with Blake's emotions going as far as calling him a psychopath. Something Adam didn't take well.
Ultimately Rena couldn't take it anymore and defected. Sienna Khan received word of this and not wanting to lose an important member she sent Adam to retrieve the red-eyed faunus.
The bull faunus tracked her down to the Vale border.
Adam said, "Come back to the White Fang, Rena. Sienna Khan doesn't want to lose such a valuable member such as you."
Rena replied, "No. The White Fang is going against everything it originally stood for, Adam. I've had enough. I'm not going back. Not until Khan realizes what she's doing is wrong."
Adam shook his head, "Guess I'll take you back through force."
Rena withheld a snort, "You won't succeed." They drew their weapons and stare down as storm clouds gathered, thunder rumbling. A flash of lightning served as the bell.
The two faunus ran toward each other, parrying each strike of the other's Rena deflecting shots from Blush, Adam blocking Scarlet. The two knew each other's fighting style. Rena leaped over and aimed for Adam's back. The bull faunus spun around meeting her counterattack entering a blade lock they push against one another to gain the upper hand.
Adam gritted his teeth, "Give up, Rena. It'll make things way easier."
Rena said, "Your hatred for humans will destroy you."
Adam growled, "So living alongside them is better?! Idiot!"
Rena countered, "Am I? Or am I not blinded by hatred? At least Khan knows war against humans would do no one any good." Their battle continued becoming more intense.
A miscalculation on Rena's part allowed Adam to bypass her staunch defense, Rena's eyes widened at the sight of Adam glowing red. She knew what the meant: He was activating his semblance Moonslice.
She moved to evade but it's too late. Adam swung his sword at blinding speed. A squelching noise filled the air followed by a scream of excruciating pain. Rena recoiled back at the loss of her left eye, her hand covering the wound and blood dripping past it. Fighting through the pain Rena glared at Adam with burning rage. Placing Scarlet at her side and one leg forward in a lunge position Rena tensed.
She roared, "I'll make you pay for that, you son of a bitch!" The injured faunus charged at Adam swinging Scarlet in multiple arcs faster than the bull faunus could block. His guard now broken Adam yelled out in pain feeling the claymore sword wear down his aura. Moments later cuts appeared on his body. One final swing of Scarlet launched her enemy, his body rolling on the ground several times before coming to a stop. When he recovered enough to stand Rena was gone.
The said faunus ran toward Vale City under the cover of the storm. While she had incredible endurance, she was feeling the effects of shock and blood loss taking hold. Only adrenaline flooding her system kept her from collapsing in the middle of the street. And yet she found her vision become fuzzy causing Rena to shake her head in order to stay awake long enough to receive medical attention.
She found a sign that read "Schwartz's Forge" and at that moment the adrenaline wore out making her collapse at the doorstep. Her armor produced a noise that alerted the occupant. She faintly heard the door lock moving and felt a presence.
The human saw her lying at his doorstep and upon seeing her injured state pulled her inside. Closing and locking the door the human placed Rena on her back brushing the strands of wet black hair away he gasped at the sight of her bleeding wound. Rena shot up wrapping her hands around the man's throat with the intent on choking him only to collapse seconds later.
The next morning's rays pierced through the curtains touching Rena's face. Her eye snapped open, shooting up and looking around to find herself in a room. Pulling the covers back to reveal she was wearing a shirt that's too big for her, serving as a nightgown. Getting out of the queen size bed Rena surveyed the room finding it plain when she caught her reflection in the bedroom mirror rushing over, she discovered her left eye was covered in gauze and bandages. Tearing them off and pulling the hair away Rena gasped at the sight.
Her left eye was gone. Her aura healed most of the damage but that provided little comfort.
The door opened up revealing the owner of the house holding Rena's clothing.
The man greeted, "Ah, you're awake." He's suddenly pinned to the wall, "Whoa, relax."
Rena demanded coldly, "Where am I, human?"
The man replied, "You're in Vale City in the kingdom of Vale. I'm Smith Schwartz, owner of Schwartz's Forge. I found you lying at my doorstep last night, you were injured and brought you in for treatment."
Rena pressed her forearm against Smith's throat, "And this shirt I'm wearing?"
Smith responded, "You were soaked with rain and if I didn't do something you'd end with a cold. I removed your attire and dried you down before giving you that shirt."
Rena's eye narrowed, "So you saw everything."
Smith told her, "What kind of person do you take me for? I'd never do some perverted thing, young one."
Rena asked, "Where's my equipment?"
Smith replied, "Your clothes are lying about the room when you pinned me to this wall. Your armor and sword are in the main room."
Rena backed off grabbing the clothes and entered the bathroom, locking the door behind her and got dressed. A minute later she stepped out wearing her black leggings, underwear and short-sleeve shirt.
Smith said, "What's your name?"
The faunus answered bluntly, "Rena."
Smith blinked in surprise, "No last name? Weird." He stared at the hair covering the faunus' left eye, "I need to cover that injury of yours again, Rena. Can't risk it getting infected."
She cut him off, "I'll do it myself."
Smith reasoned, "But you need me to fix the gauze and bandage tape." He remained unfazed by Rena's cold glare, "I'm not going to hurt you."
Rena asked, "What do you hope to get out of this?"
Smith told her, "Nothing."
The faunus said, "Fine. But I'm doing the disinfecting myself." Leading her to the bathroom, Smith opened a door underneath the sink where he kept the medical box. Setting it on the counter along with a bottle of disinfectant alcohol Smith unlocked the box pulling out the gauze, bandage tape and cotton ball.
Unscrewing the cap Rena poured some disinfectant on the ball moving hair and gently tapped on the empty eye socket where the eye once resided hissing at the burning sensation. She was grateful Gale taught her how to treat minor injuries when her aura couldn't.
Once the alcohol dried Smith put the gauze over the injury asking Rena to hold it in place while placing the tape on it.
After it was finished Smith said, "Follow me to the kitchen. I'll cook us some breakfast." Rena followed him quickly learning to adjust her reduced field of vision.
Reaching the kitchen Smith gestured for her to sit at the table as he cooked.
'To think I'd be saved by a human.' Rena thought.
It didn't take long for breakfast to be ready settling with eggs, bread and apple. Rena stared at the food placed in front of her on the plate.
Smith took his seat, "Go ahead, it's not poisoned if that's what you are worried about." Her stomach growled telling Rena to eat. Picking up her fork she cut into the egg, yolk spilling out.
Her savior ate his own meal occasionally taking a sip of his coffee.
Rena felt his staring, "What are you looking at?"
Smith replied, "Just wondering how you got your injury."
Rena said, "Lost it in a fight. And...thank you for saving me. But that doesn't mean I trust you."
Smith asked, "Where are you from?"
Rena swallowed a bite of toast, "None of your business."
Smith asked next, "And what about your parents? Do they know where you are?"
The faunus said, "Don't wanna talk about it."
Smith scratched the back of his neck, "You must've had a rough childhood." The glare on her face dropped a few degrees causing him to change the subject, "After breakfast I need to do a few errands and you should come with me. We'll shop for an eye patch. I sincerely doubt you want to wear that gauze all the time."
Rena looked to the right, "Whatever." Remaining true to his word, after eating their fill and cleaning the dishes, they head out.
The first on their to-do list is find out who Rena's parents were. Entering a police station, Smith told the receptionist at the front desk if they have any info on Rena or her parents. To his shock there wasn't any information. This led Smith to conclude Rena was an orphan though he didn't know her age.
Briefly looking at the faunus sitting in a chair arms crossed, Smith returned his attention to the receptionist, "What's the nearest adoption agency?"
The receptionist wrote the name and address down then handed the piece of paper to him, "The Vale Adoption Agency. It's a few blocks away."
Smith nodded, "Thank you very much, sir. Come, Rena, we're heading out." They ventured next to the said agency and Smith filled out the paper work and afterward headed for a store designed for the disabled or impaired.
Walking to the aisle for eye patches Smith looked through the selection placing them over Rena's missing eye to measure the proper size. Settling with one that was a few shades lighter than the color of her hair Smith paid the toll and they exited the store, Smith using a knife he kept on him to cut the price tag off. Rena kept her guard up as her now adopted father removed the taped gauze then pulled the elastic band of the eye patch back to place the item over her missing eye using the window of the store for guidence. Once the eye patch is in place Rena looked left then right a few times. Nodding to herself she looked at Smith with the same stoic expression.
Days go by and Rena worked hard overcoming her reduced depth perception through sharpening her other senses. Through great patience and conversations Rena began opening up to Smith revealing bits of herself until one day she confessed reasons why she was cold then felt the urge to cry but she didn't.
End of flashback
After her story Rena's team mates sit there shocked at the hardships she endured.
She experienced betrayal, people who broke her trust or toyed with her emotions for some ulterior motive. She experienced abandonment. Yet somehow Rena stayed sane becoming stronger emotionally.
Draco said, "Holy shit. Rena..."
Rena told them, "Don't. Pity's for the weak. Unlike others I pushed forward. Now you understand why I have a hard time opening up to newcomers. I refuse showing weakness." Rena doesn't understand why she's allowing them see past her emotional walls. She brushes the hair out of the way and lifts the eye patch showing her teammates the dark void of her left eye socket, a vertical scar visible. She quickly lowers the eye patch covering the old injury.
The faunus lowers her head, hair shadowing her face not allowing them see the look of vulnerability or fear of rejection. Her enhanced hearing picks up the sound of footsteps approaching her. Xavier kneels to her level extending his hand to touch, Rena flinches and turns her head. She can't allow herself to show weakness. Rena is suddenly pulled into a hug by Xavier.
She asked, "What are you doing?"
Xavier gently rubbed her back, "You're not a monster, Rena. What you endured was rough but you're not alone. We're here for you if anything's troubling you."
She blinked in surprise, "You don't care if I did all those things?"
Xavier said, "Nobody's perfect, Rena. We all make mistakes."
Draco agreed, "Xavier's right. We still accept you even with all your faults." Xavier breaks the hold allowing Yumi to grab Rena's hands giving the older faunus one of her cheerful smiles.
Yumi said soothingly, "You need to relax from time to time. We can always do something together. No need to carry this burden on your own. You got us."
Rena began, "You guys..." Her calm demeanor gives way to one that showed repressed emotional pain. Draco, Yumi and Xavier embrace her in a group hug. At that, the flood gates open. Tears flow down her cheeks as she cries gripping Yumi's shirt. Another feeling hits Rena. A sense of relief that her team still accept and gained a new level of respect for her.
The one-eyed faunus soon calms down wiping her tears away. Strangely she does feel better after telling them of her past. However, she left out when she met Ashton Fall. She feels they aren't ready for that subject. Not yet, anyway.
Draco said, "You and this Blake Belladonna, you said the two of you were close. Like sisters."
Rena confirmed, "Yes. We still are."
Draco asked, "Have you remained in contact with her?"
The one-eyed faunus shook her head, "No. Not since I left the White Fang, Draco. I don't even know if she's still with the organization."
Draco said, "There's one more thing I wanted to ask. What about that flaming eye trick Xavier and I saw?"
Rena asked him, "Tell me. Are you familiar with the Four Maidens?"
Xavier answered, "I am. My parents used to tell me stories about them. Beings with magical powers although I wrote it off as some fairy tale."
Rena shook her head, "No, they're real. Selene Mealstrom was one of them. She told me the Maidens were labeled after the season they represented and thus their powers are at their peak during that season. They can control the elements though it's not known how many. Selene said the Maidens grow stronger with experience. I think the cut off age is thirty, can't say for certain. But when a Maiden dies, their powers are transferred to the person who were in their thoughts. Selene was the Winter Maiden. "
Draco gestured with his hand, "So that means..."
His team leader acknowledged, "Yes, I'm the current Winter Maiden."
Xavier asked, "How did you get it? Hope it wasn't by force."
Rena deadpanned, "Come now, Xavier, do I look like that kind of person? During my time under Sienna Khan's reign we were ambushed by some terrorists, we suffered immense casualties. Selene was one of them. In her final moments she transferred her powers to me. I was hesitant but upon some persuasion I accepted. Let's just say after that, the terrorists didn't leave alive. Since then I've been honing my Maiden powers. I use it sparingly. Selene warned me that someone was after the Maidens." The faunus feels the need to get some water having a dry throat from talking so much.
After Rena dons her armor they depart the area waiting for their wounds to heal completely then head for their next mission.
'Wherever you are, Blake, I hope you're safe.' Rena thought looking at the sky.
A/N: Chapter 13 done. Woo, this one took me a while and my longest chapter. I was burnt out and needed a break.
No action in this chapter but character development for Rena with her telling Draco, Yumi and Xavier about her past, the events that shaped her life and the difficulty of opening up.
Read and review.
Stayed tuned for chapter 14.
Vader 23A