*CRACK*
Ruby stopped her recollection and looked down at the shards of what remained of her cup. She hadn't even realized she went stiff or when she started shaking, not until she had already lost her grip on her drink.
Concern took over Blake and was about to take action, but was stopped when Ruby had raised her hand. Said girl gripped her own palms to attempt to calm her own nerves while she took a couple breaths. It took a bit, but her hand eventually stopped shaking, and her posture relaxed.
"How often does that happen?" Blake asked.
Ruby didn't answer. She didn't dare to look at her teammate to respond. Her attention was wholly on staring down at her own hand, almost glaring at it for its betrayal. "I hadn't had one in months."
"I'm…I'm sorry," Blake apologized. "I didn't-"
"You wanted answers," Ruby interrupted as she hid her shakened hand beneath the table. "It's not your fault that happened."
Even with her assurance, Blake hadn't looked too convinced at the words. Her hands fidgeted with one another while her own posture was slouched. There was no missing the clear regret in her eyes, no matter how many times she turned away her gaze.
Damn it. Ruby grumbled to herself. This wasn't how it was supposed to go.
"Blake," Calling her name got her attention. "It's not that I don't want to help. It's just that… I can't. I've forsaken my mother's name and the creed I lived by. Robin has only brought harm, suffering, and death to those closest and beyond. Please understand,"
Ruby's eyes hardened as she stared through Blake's. "I can't be Robin. Not anymore."
Both girls, once again, sat in silence. The tension stilled the air in their presence and no other sound could be heard. Different emotions were still processing between both of them. Each one anticipating the next move and how to move forward.
"I…understand," Blake barely looked at her when she responded. But that changed when she continued. "But I hope you understand as well why I can't just back down from this."
"Blake-"
"If the White Fang is really behind those Dust Robberies, I can't just sit back and do nothing while years of hard work be undone. This is far different than what they've done before, and I need to know why."
"We're students, Blake," Ruby remarked. "This is a police and Huntsmen matter. No student is ready to handle this situat-"
"There aren't many students like us! How many students do you know experienced the things we have? We can't just leave this for someone else. How long do you think it will take anyone else before things start to escalate? Are you willing to miss the chance to not act?"
Ruby wanted to argue with her, to tell her wrong and that the authorities could handle it. But even she was not foolish enough to believe in that. Who was she to say that things won't start getting worse the next day? Or even tonight? They have what they need to better investigate the Dust Robberies, whether it was done by criminal masterminds or the White Fang. The opportunity is there, so why can't they take it?
You know why.
Not putting on the mask will only put more lives in danger!
That mask has done more harm than good when we last used it!
Then how about a compromise?
"Okay."
Her response confused Blake. "Okay?"
"If you want to investigate more into those robberies, then I won't stop you. I'll even help you look into leads that might connect the White Fang to those robberies."
"That's…That's great!-"
"But," Ruby interrupted. "That's as far as I am willing to go. Whatever information I find, I'll give it directly to you before sending it to the police or even Professor Ozpin. I won't be getting involved with whatever happens after."
It pained her to say all that to her teammate. It almost made Ruby want to rethink her proposition, but that part of her had no room for negotiation. This isn't her fight anymore. Robin wasn't coming back for this.
Blake was initially disappointed upon hearing her settlement, but respected her decision. Reluctantly, she agreed to her team leader's terms. "Okay, deal."
"So, where do we start?"
"I know an old White Fang associate who set up shop in the city. If anybody were to know what the White Fang is currently doing, it's him."
Blake then handed Ruby a business card in regards to the shop. "Tell him that I sent you."
While looking over the card, the Girl Wonder couldn't help but ask. "What will you be doing?"
"Whoever is robbing the Dust stores, they are surely to strike again soon. Sun and I will start from there before working our way up."
With much reluctance, Ruby bit her tongue and nodded. "Good luck."
Blake returned the gesture. "You too."
As she walked back inside to collect Sun, Ruby couldn't help but think to herself: Am I doing the right thing?
Ruby looked between the card Blake had given her and the big sign that hung from the outside of the shop.
Tukson's Book Trade, a neat little bookshop in a wall in a remote side of the city, a bit away from the Café she just came from. If the address written on the card were correct, this is where she could get information about the White Fang. Hopefully Blake's intel still held up.
Pulling over her hood, she then entered the shop. A small bell above the door rang to alert her presence.
From the front desk, a large man with black sideburns turned to her with a warming smile. Although he looked built and sprung, the wrinkles on his face and the crow's feet around his eyes made him look older. He set aside any book he had before giving a proper greeting.
"Welcome to Tukson's Book Trade, home to every book under the sun. How may I help you?"
The Girl Wonder took glances around the shop itself. There was nothing too out of the ordinary; various isles of books layered different areas of the shop, with each shelf stacked with both paperbacks and hardcovers. "Just browsing."
"Hm, do you have anything of interest?"
Her brain started storming books she read back in Wayne Manor's library. Best to ease him in before getting to the code word. "Do you have any Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde?"
"Shelf to your right." He answered.
Low and behold, there it was. That was easy. "Um, how about Frankenstein? The old one, I mean. But I'm okay if you have the newer one."
"Quite the rare find, but I do believe we have one in the back. And we also have an entire box of the 'Corpse Doctor' near the entrance."
Well, no use now on beating around the bush. "How about…The Third Crusade."
She noticed the man tense up when hearing the book title. The warm smile and friendly demeanor melted away and was soon replaced with cautiousness. He eyed her as she slowly walked towards desk. "I'm sorry Ma'am, but I don't believe we have that."
Ruby made sure to make no sudden movements. She raised her hands where he could see them. "I take it you're Tukson."
He narrowed his eyes on her. "I am."
"Then I want you to know that I mean you no harm. I just need information."
"About?"
"The White Fang."
Tukson laughed at her answer. "And what makes you think I could tell you anything?"
"Because Blake Belladonna sent me here."
Name dropping Blake shocked Tukson, so much so that he started to ease down and relax in her presence.
"Blake? But why would she-"
"Because I believe that the White Fang is related to the recent Dust Robberies around Vale."
His scowl was an indicator that he knew more about it than he let on. "I'm sorry kid, but I can't help you. The White Fang thing is all behind me now."
"Please Tukson," Ruby pleaded. "Lives are at stake if someone doesn't do something about it."
"And who exactly is going to do anything about it?"
His question caught her off-guard. "I'll make sure this information gets to the proper authorities. With the help of the police and a couple Huntsmen-"
Tukson laughed at the statement. "What makes you think they'll do anything about it? The police don't bother with anything White Fang related. And do you really think a Huntress or a Huntsman has time to look into something like this?"
Ruby was speechless. Her mouth opened to disagree, but found no words to retort. She wanted to tell him otherwise and that it did matter to them. But she could not voice her thoughts.
"Give it up, kid," Tukson frowned while he turned away to the backroom. "Nobody is going to do anything."
We could.
No, we couldn't. We won't.
Is there a choice? You heard what he said. Nobody is going to do anything, but us.
"Uh, Miss?"
We can't possibly believe that.
Then count how many stores have been robbed! How much more before we need to act!
No! No! No! We can't! We won't! I WON'T!
People! Are! Dying! When are you going to stand up and do something about it-!
Tukson was starting to get concerned and reached out. "Miss, are you alright?"
Ruby hadn't noticed the hand until it reached out towards her. She hadn't even realized she'd been trembling until the sudden touch caused her to flinch. It was pure instinct to slap it away and tumble back, not realizing she backed into one of the unsteady shelves until it was too late.
*CRASH*
The noise made her jump, and soon her mind went into overdrive. Her breathing became frantic, her vision turned blurry, and a ringing noise pierced through her ears. She tried to make sense of everything, but only ended up tripping over something before crashing onto the floor.
Everything started to hurt once more. It was all darkness. The ground felt cold, almost freezing. There was nothing, but shadows that surrounded her. And there was something big approaching her.
Instinct took over, and her arms and legs immediately had her pushing away from whatever approached. She couldn't stand; all she could do was scramble back in fear. But it wasn't long before her back hit a hard surface. There was no escape now.
I don't want to die. I don't want to die! I don't want to die!
And yet, part of her held no fear for what's about to come. It knew that after everything she had done, she deserved it. It was all karma for everything she had done to hurt everyone around her. She had got innocents killed. She got family killed. And if this is the consequence to atone for it all, then so be it.
She…She deserved this.
Although each breath was erratic and her heart beated out of her chest, her body kept still to the best she could. The ringing noise in her ears started to die down. She only prayed for it to be quick. Closing her eyes, she squeezed them tight, then waited for the inevitable.
"I'm sorry. I'm so sorry."
It felt like time had stayed still. No wind, no rain, no ringing noise. Simply silence.
Suddenly, someone took her shaking hands and held onto them. Not in a rough way, but in a gentle and kind manner. She wanted to pull them back, the hold on them was firm. She couldn't help, but wince when she heard a voice.
"It's alright Miss," A voice whispered. "Everything is going to be okay. Can you look at me please?"
Ruby shook her head. She couldn't open her eyes to see who it was, even if she wanted to. They were held shut in fear of what was to come. It's coming. Why isn't it coming?
"Okay, you don't need to if you don't want to. But can you do something for me?" The voice asked. "Can you follow my breathing?"
Sure enough, she felt the rhythm of a steady breath. 1. 2. 3. Breathe. 1. 2. 3 Breathe. 1. 2. 3. It was slow, unlike her own beating heart and exhaling lungs, but easy to keep up.
Come on, Ruby. Follow. 1. 2. 3. Breathe. 1. 2. 3 Breathe.
The process was slow. Nonetheless, it was what she needed at the moment. It took a while before erratic became shaky, until eventually turning steady. Soon enough did her muscles start to relax, and everything was back in control.
Seeing that she had finally calmed down, her hands were let go, and only then did Ruby open her eyes to see.
It was Tukson, on his knees as low as he possibly could to not tower over her.
Looking around, her brain finally registered that she was still in the bookstore, nestled against the furthest wall from where she originally stood. There were a couple books scattered across the floor, with a shelf fallen to its side not too far away. Realization struck her as she slowly pieced together what had happened.
"I'm sorry about that," Ruby apologized. "I'll pay for any damages I've done to the shop and any other book that needs repair."
Tukson wasn't having any of it. "You don't have to do that. That shelf was getting too old anyway."
Ruby pulled her legs closer to her chest and avoided any eye contact. Despite his modesty and assurance, the guilt of it all couldn't just leave her alone.
"Although, I have to admit, I've seen many episodes from people of different ages," Tukson said before looking straight into her eyes. "Just never from someone as young as you."
Any air she had left her body. "H-How did you-"
"I've lost far too many friends to not pick up on the signs."
"Oh," Ruby knew from the way his face scrunched at the recollection. The silent pain in his eyes looked haunting. "I'm sorry for your loss."
Tukson sighed before moving his legs to sit. "Don't be. They're all in a far better place than they were. But nevermind them, I'm more worried about you."
At the mention of her, Ruby practically shrunk deeper into her knees, her gaze still focused on anything but him.
"It's okay. I won't pry about any details, or ask any other questions. I just want to know if you're okay."
"...no…" She whispered.
"Do you need anything? Anything to make you comfortable?"
"...stay…please."
Her answer surprised Tukson, but complied nonetheless. Adjusting one of the nearby shelves, he then leaned his back onto it to get more comfortable. It didn't matter how long he was going to sit there. Minutes, hours, days. He would remain there until the young lady felt well enough to move.
Time would then pass. They weren't sure how long, only that the sun was starting to set and the shattered moon was coming. Neither of them spoke a word within that time, but none of them mind. Although Ruby was still stiff in her guarded position, Tukson laid relaxed from his spot. While Ruby stared at the faunus man, he kept his eyes shut and waited.
"Have you ever got someone killed?" Ruby suddenly asked.
Tukson's eyes were quick to open and looked at her. "I'm sorry?"
"When you were in the White Fang, have you ever got someone killed?"
He was hesitant for a moment, but still answered. "Yes."
"Were they accidents?"
"Sometimes."
At first, Tukson wasn't sure where she was going with this. It wasn't everyday that someone would ask you if you accidentally killed someone. That was, until a horrible thought came to him. She doesn't mean…
"Two people," She answered, noticing the distraught look on his face. "Two people and my uncle. An uncle that helped raise me since my mom died. All because of some stupid mistake."
"I'm sure it wasn't your fault-"
"It was. No matter what angle I look at it from, had I not done it, they all would've been alive. I hurt people, people who were friends, people who trusted me."
"Do you regret it?"
Now it was Ruby's turn to be caught off guard. "What?"
"Do you regret what you've done?"
"...Everyday."
"What have you done since then?"
Ruby finally looked towards Tukson. "I thought you said you wouldn't ask for details?"
"I did. What I'm asking is what you've done to honor them."
True to his word. She thought. Ruby then reflected the past few months since the incident. "I made it my goal to become a Huntress. To still help people, but in a different way."
"And do you believe that's enough?" He asked.
She hesitated to answer that. Was becoming a Huntress enough to make up for what she's done? She wanted to answer 'Yes, it did'. Without Robin, she wouldn't hurt anyone anymore. Without the mask, there were no more secrets, no more lies, no way to harm those around her. And yet, a part of her knew not to answer. Crime has become more prevalent than before, the White Fang grew worse as time passed, more people were getting hurt.
"Whatever your answer is, I just want you to remember: You can't dwell on what's happened. Just focus on what you can do to make it right."
"It's why I'm here," Tukson gestured to all the books around him. "The best thing I could do now is make sure I never hurt anyone ever again. I may have left the White Fang life behind, but I made sure to never forget the things I have done. It's a reminder to continue to do what I promised."
…He's right, you know.
Nothing we can do could change the past…
But what can you do,
Is to never forget.
And look to the future.
"If you still want to know, I'm not 100% sure if they're behind the recent robberies. However, I do know that they've recently made a partnership with a well-known criminal."
That got Ruby's interest. "Who?"
"Roman Torchwick."
She should've known; More often these days, the White Fang evolved their tactics from destroying Anti-faunus shops to stores that were simply owned by humans. With how often it happens now, it's rare for cops to thoroughly investigate and arrest any perpetrators. The perfect cover for a criminal like Torchwick to take advantage of.
But that led to another question.
"But he's human. Why would the White Fang work with someone they despise?"
Tukson shrugged in response. "I was never told why. All I heard was that their goals aligned and that they had something planned together. What and when exactly, I'm unsure. 'Just that whatever it is, it's happening soon."
It wasn't a lot to go by, but it was a lead nonetheless. "Thank you," She said before bringing up a realization. "You know, if something happens, there is a possibility that it might get traced back to you."
The large man chuckled at her point. "You don't have to worry. I can handle whatever they throw at me."
"It's not 'you' that I am worried about." Ruby answered back.
Taking in her words, Tukson looked to the store around himself before moving to his hands. He then sighed. "Right. I'm sure there are other Kingdoms that could use a new bookstore."
"I heard Mistral is quite nice at this time of year."
Now that got a snort out of him. "I'll keep that in mind."
As Ruby tried to get up from her position, her body would fail her and force her back into sitting. Although her mind was sound, the body was still too weak to move. The raised-brow Tukson was giving was a clear indication that he came to the same conclusion.
"Uh, do you mind if I-?"
Tukson simply smiled while he pushed himself back up. "Take as much time as you need."
As he walked back to the back of the store, Ruby continued to relax herself on his floor. She needed some rest. By closing her eyes, she allowed herself to succumb to whatever peace she could get. It's not everyday that one silences their inner conflict.
It was already night time once Ruby had left Tukson's Bookstore. She felt almost relieved. The muscle stiffness and headaches she had grown accustomed to were gone. Her entire body and mind felt relaxed, being almost weightless. Although the hole in her chest still existed, it didn't feel as big as it used to. Everything didn't hurt as much anymore.
She knew this feeling may only be temporary, but that didn't stop her from relishing the moment. Time may not heal the wounds she had inflicted on herself, but she would learn to live with it.
For now, she had to deal with the present, most importantly, Torchwick and the White Fang.
If Tukson's information was true, then Roman Torchwick has the resources of the White Fang to back him up in his operation; Men, weapons, the tech, even transportation for getaways. But why would he need them? Hired guns and Mercenaries are already enough to continue robbing stores.
That's unless he's expanding operations.
The Girl Wonder scowled at the thought. It made perfect sense; if he is trying to get larger quantities of dust, then he's gonna need more resources to pull it all off. That type of heist would surely get the eye of the government and local Huntsmen. And who to get to help organize and be the front of the entire affair than the White Fang themselves.
So that's the angle. I have to tell Blake before-
"Friend Ruby!"
GAH!
Ruby was startled by the sudden appearance of a smiling Penny behind her. "Penny! When did you get here?"
And how long had she been standing there?!
"Oh! I had just been walking by when I noticed you standing there by the sidewalk," Penny happily explained, "I tried calling out to you, but you seemed to have been in deep thought about something."
If Batman were present, he would've scolded the hell out of me for my lack of spatial awareness. Ruby shivered at thought.
"In fact, I was actually looking for you." Penny said, much to Ruby's surprise.
"Really?" Ruby asked. "For what?"
"I hadn't actually thanked you for your help and apologies for earlier," Penny answered, before gazing downwards in shame. "My excitement from the progress made didn't allow me to take your feelings of everything into consideration. I should've been more mindful."
Ruby sighed at her explanation. This was her own fault. "No Penny, you don't have to apologize for that. I should actually be the one apologizing to you for exploding earlier."
"But-"
"Penny, I may be going through some difficult things right now, but that was no excuse to release my frustrations at you. You only wanted help in finding Victor, so you shouldn't really blame yourself for my outburst. Just, be careful next time and slow down a bit. Okay?"
Penny's mood practically flipped like a switch and she was back to her smiling self again. "All clear!" She saluted.
Her change in attitude got a chuckle out of Ruby. "Now, where-"
*BOOM*
A loud explosion would then interrupt their conversation.
*BOOM* *BOOM*
Based on the sound and eruption of smoke, they had to be coming from the Docks.
The Docks! The Girl Wonder then realized.
"What was that?" Penny questioned aloud.
"Damn it, how could I have not seen it!" Ruby berated herself. "Of course they would be at the Docks! The robberies would cause an increase of SDC Dust imports to Vale. Once they arrive at port, it's an easier and more hefty payday than just stealing from individual stores!"
Penny was quick to take the information in. "I shall call local authorities right away!"
"They won't make it in time. Not before Roman Torchwick has already made it off with tons of Dust."
"Then we must delay them until help arrives!" Penny proudly announced before getting ready to head off. "Don't worry Ruby, I am combat ready!"
"Wait!"
Penny stopped in her tracks and turned to Ruby in confusion. "But-"
"I have to change."
"Change? Why must you…" Penny was initially perplexed at the suggestion before then realizing. "Wait, do you mean-?!"
Ruby looked down towards the call button of her scroll. Tukson's words echoing inside her head.
"You can't dwell on what's happened. Just have to focus on what you can do to make it right."
With a press of a button, her locker was called to her location.
"Brothers of the White Fang! Why are you aiding this scum!?"
While Blake held Gambol Shroud to Roman Torchwick's neck, White Fang soldiers surrounded them and had their weapons trained on her.
They really were behind those Dust Robberies. Blake didn't want to believe it. Even after everything she had witnessed and done under their organization, she had hoped that her suspicions were wrong. But deep down, she knew it was all true.
It still begged the question though: why work with Roman Torchwick?
The man in question had laughed at her question. "Oh kid, didn't you get the memo?"
She held her blade closer to his throat. "What are you talking about!?"
"The White Fang and I are going into a joint business venture together."
"Tell me what it is or I'll put an end to your little operation."
Strong gusts of winds from above would shift her attention. 2 large Bullheads had arrived and circled the area around them.
"I wouldn't exactly call this a 'little' operation"
While Blake was distracted by the ships' sudden appearance, Roman aimed and fired his explosive cane directly behind him, releasing the hold she had and knocking her back.
The blast had initially disorientated the Faunus girl as she tried to get back onto her feet. It took a couple seconds to get everything straight, enough time to notice the explosive projectile coming straight at her. Rolling out of the way, Blake barely dodged with her semblance the next couple explosions behind her.
Back onto her feet, Blake ran behind a shipping container to cover from Roman's aim.
Roman clicked in frustration as he slowly followed her direction. "Here, Kitty Kitty Kitty."
A quick glimpse of a running black silhouette was all he needed before taking aim. Just as he was about to fire, a banana peel was thrown on his face from above. Not a second later was his face drop-kicked from the sky.
"Leave her alone." Sun ordered as he landed on his feet, his weapon drawn and ready.
"Tsk, Tsk, Tsk," Roman tossed the banana away and glared at the boy while numerous White Fang soldiers landed around them. "You're not the brightest banana of the bunch, are you kid?"
Once surrounded, a few of them rushed Sun with their swords above their heads, 2 from behind and front.
The monkey faunus made easy work with them; Once close enough, Sun simply jabbed his staff in one of their faces before swinging and striking one behind him. Twirling around, he was quick to parry an upcoming attack before smacking the faunus to the ground then elbowing the last guy.
With the 4 down, the rest followed in suit.
Blow for blow, each attack was parried and deflected. When one of them strike, another was knocked down. None of them were able to land a single hit on him before being smacked by his staff. Every goon that approached him dropped like flies.
Torchwick was getting annoyed by the scene. So much for getting my money's worth. Aiming his cane, he shot an explosive round towards the faunus, only for it to be blocked with a twirl of a staff.
As the smoke dissipated, Blake was quick to get back into the fight and landed before Sun before rushing Torchwick. "He's mine!"
She slashed at the man's torso, but was surprised when he deflected the move with his cane. Not wanting to let up, she released a flurry of different swipes and slashes from all around, only for each strike to be matched by his cane. Even with the usage of her shadows, the criminal was easy to slip and dodge past each pounce she made.
It was only through patience and observation did he find an opening and slapped her side with his weapon before following it with a blow to the head.
Before he could do more damage, Sun jumped in and was able to kick the man back. Switching his staff's form to his 'gun-chucks', he then barraged Torchwick with a flurry of hits and shells. Although Roman was able to keep pace with each hit, blocking each shell and chuck, he was thrown back when the Catgirl jumped back in and sent him flying.
Recovering from his fall, his eyes then caught the shipping container hanging over his assailant's heads. A single shot from his cane was all it took before the thing came crashing down, with Blake and Sun barely rolling out of the way. The White Fang soldiers took advantage of this and surrounded them.
While Blake was recovering her bearings, Torchwick approached her fallen form and took aim. "I've had enough of cats and their nine liv-"
*FLING*
*TWACK*
"Gah!"
While Torchwick held his hand in pain, he turned towards whatever knocked his cane out of his hands.
Much to his shock, it was a familiar looking shuriken. One that eerily looked like a bird.
While the White Fang members looked on with confusion, Roman was quick to grab his weapon and search the docks. He's been part of the criminal underworld long enough to know who it belonged to. But it was impossible! Not only do they only operate in Atlas, but they haven't been seen in months!
His worry only grew when numerous pellets fell from above and exploded, covering the entire area in a thick smoke. While the White Fang coughed and heaved from the gas, Roman stood on guard and ready, anticipating for anything to happen.
For a quick second, a dark silhouette sweeped over their heads, the wind flapped in its wake. Those with guns were quick to shoot at whatever loomed, but were forced to drop them when something attached to their weapon's sides and exploded them out of their hands.
"What in Remnant was that!?" One of them panicked. Not a second later did something attach to the Faunus soldier's leg and tripped him over before grappling him into the depths of the fog.
By then, all hell broke loose.
Each of the soldiers started to panic; some of them swung their weapons blindly, others paired in groups, and few decided to make a run for it. The ones isolated were taken down quietly, their weapons being shot out of their hands before a shadow envelopes them, then silencing them. Ones who grouped up were dealt with swiftly, either slamming both their heads into the ground or into one another. And for those who ran? Well, their pained yells spoke of their fates.
Roman paid them no mind, however, and focused on his surroundings. If he were to get out of this, he knew he had to stay calm and collected. "It's an honor to finally meet you! 'Heard so much about you," He called out, eying for any movement around him. "But last I checked, this isn't your city."
"Just moved here." A modulated voice answered.
*FLING*
Torchwick spun around and rapidly deflected each projectile. It took 3 swings before he saw all of them laid waste on the ground. "Really now? Then allow me to give you a warm welcome."
*WHOOSH*
His reaction time was fast, and immediately fired an explosive round behind him. Seeing nothing, but charred soot where he shot didn't relieve his worries. "I don't want any trouble from the likes of you. So, how about we just ignore this incident and we both go our separate ways, capishe?"
"You should've thought of that before committing the crime, Torchwick."
The soft sounds of footsteps were heard from behind. On instinct, Roman readied his cane and turned towards his opponent, but found nobody in sight. He cursed to himself, he was getting jumpy.
Just as he turned back, he was met with an uppercut to the face, launching him back.
The surrounding smoke started to dissipate. Sun and Blake were fortunate enough to have been able to recover and were back on their feet. Once their surroundings were visible enough, the scene before them certainly got reactions.
Although Blake couldn't believe her eyes, a small smile did form on her lips. A surprise, to be sure, but a welcome one.
Standing before a downed Roman Torchwick was a young girl, dressed in an armored green and red leotard with a black cape and hood. Although her short spiky chopped hair flew free, her identity was kept secret behind a domino mask with white lenses. On her left breastplate was a symbol: a lone red 'R' encompassed in a black circle.
Sun immediately recognized who it was, almost giddy at the fact before whispering it to Blake.
"That's Robin!"
Alright, Ruby couldn't lie: it felt great to wear the suit again.
It was like wearing your favorite old sweater and being surprised that it still fit. A bit too snug in a couple areas, but overall still comfortable. Although, it does feel heavier since she last wore it. For good reason though.
Her equipment was still in great condition; the mask and grappling hook worked like a charm and her 'Birdarangs' were as useful as ever. Even the personalization she liked such as the boots and the green of the inner cape were still present. She's going to have to thank Lucius and Stu the next time she sees them.
Regardless of it all, she still had a job to do.
As she slowly approached the fallen criminal, Torchwick was finally able to get his bearings. She did, however, stop when the man in question started to chuckle.
"I have to admit, Girl Wonder. This has been the most fun I've had in months," Roman smiled as he got back onto his feet. "However, I do believe this is where the fun has to end."
With a snap of his fingers, the Bullheads from earlier returned and surrounded the area, setting their sights on not only Robin, but also Blake and Sun. The smirk on Torchwick's face only grew at the sound of the ship's guns whirling to life, ready to fire.
"Any last words before departure, Girl Wonder?"
Robin gave no initial response. That was, until she tapped the side of her ear. "P-bot, engage."
Before Roman could understand what the hell she meant, an explosion erupted from one of the Bullheads above. As the ship crashed towards the open waters, the rest attempted to evade whatever shot it efforts were fruitless when multiple swords were embedded into their hulls before being slowly being pulled to the ground.
All the swords were pulled by a thin, but strong metal wire attached to none other than Penny, who stood atop of a nearby warehouse.
The criminal couldn't believe it when with one strong pull, the 2 remaining Bullheads were brought down, crash landing into either the docks or the ocean.
"The skies are all clear, friend Robin!" Penny called out, raising a thumbs up.
With everything coming apart, the remaining White Fang soldiers abandoned the operation and chose to escape. While few sprinted from the scene, others got onto whatever VTOL they had left and flew out.
Enraged by everything going awry, Roman aimed his cane with the intent to kill the Girl Wonder, only to wince in pain when it was knocked out of his hands with a flick of a Birdarang. He barely had time to recover before she jumped him and got him in a chokehold.
"It's over Torchwick," Robin said, tightening her hold on him. "Now tell me what I want to know."
"T-That depends on what you d-do know -Ack!" Roman was able to gasp out.
"Don't play games with me. What does someone like you need this much Dust for?" Robin demanded, loosening her grip to allow him to speak.
"M-Me? Nothing!" He answered. "But my employer surely needs it for something."
"Who are you working for?"
"Ah Ah Ah. A professional like me can't name those he contracts with."
Robin flexed her grip on his neck. "Talk!"
But her actions did nothing to change his mind. "Oh girlie. You have no idea what you're getting into."
"What are you-"
*BANG*
*CLANG*
All of a sudden, the shipping container that hung above them gave in and fell directly towards them.
Robin was quick to act, pushing Roman Torchwick out of the way before backflipping out of the cargo's crash zone. Although she barely made out of being crushed, the force of its fall still propelled her back.
Recovering from her daze, Robin caught a glimpse of Torchwick retreating into a nearby Bullhead. She barely had time to recover before it took off.
"May we meet again, Girl Wonder!" He called out as the ship carried him further away from the dock, escaping from her grasp.
All she could do was grumble to herself. Damn it! He got away. She angrily thought whilst pushing herself off the ground. At least he didn't escape with the Dust.
That thought then brought up another issue. Who hired Roman Torchwick to steal large amounts of Dust? What could they possibly use it for? Why would the White Fang agree to work with Roman Torchwick? So many questions, and yet very little answers. She had to investigate this.
"Ruby!" A voice called out.
Turning around, Robin saw Blake running towards her. Once she got close enough, she stopped to catch her breath before looking over her teammate's costume. She wasn't able to see it up close earlier. Suffice to say, she was impressed.
"You know, maybe you shouldn't be yelling out my secret identity in public?" Robin said, turning off her modulator to properly talk to her friend.
"I thought you said you'll never take up the cowl ever again?" Blake snarked back.
Robin gripped her own gauntlets, but still offered a weak smile. "I…had a change of heart."
Blake returned the weak smile with one of her own. "Well, if it wasn't for you showing up, we would've been in a lot more trouble."
"Welllll~," Robin exaggerated by folding her arms and leaning on one leg. "I have been told I arrive the moment things go to shit."
As luck would have it, the sounds of sirens and the flashes of red and blue were heard and seen approaching the dock. Sun was already by the entrance, waving towards the scene to guide them. Blake's attention shifted from the police guards entering the area back towards her teammate.
"Looks like you're gonna have to take your le-"
She stopped mid-sentence when she noticed the empty space her friend left. When did she-? Shaking her head, the Cat-faunus joined up with her other friend to further give statements of what happened.
It wasn't long until the entire docks were filled with police and other first responders. While there were those who were assessing the extent of the damages in the area, many officers and CSIs were scouring about to either look for any more lurking White Fang members or looking for further evidence to help with the report of the incident.
Blake and Sun did their best to give as much information they knew to the investigators. While they tried to keep some information hidden, such as why they were there and Blake's previous involvement with the White Fang, someone couldn't help but accidentally let some details slip.
"So you're telling me," The detective reiterated, almost in disbelief. "That Robin, the masked vigilante exclusive to Atlas, just showed up out of nowhere, after no sightings for nearly an entire year."
"That's what I'm telling you!" Sun tried convincing the man.
The detective raised a brow at the monkey faunus before crossing something out from his notepad. "Right. Anyway, what about you ma'am? Anything else you might want to add?"
Blake couldn't help but feel second-hand embarrassment of her partner-in-crime retelling of the vigilante's appearance. His dramatization of the whole incident was nearly laughable with the exaggerated cliche lines and his attempts of sound effects with explosions and others. She practically facepalmed when he pictured the scene of Robin vs Torchwick as a scene from some old western vacuoan film. "No sir."
It didn't seem like her answer satisfied him, because he carefully eyed her out of the corner of his eye. "Say, you know what I find rather odd?"
His hard gaze at her did get Blake's attention. "What is?"
"I find it rather odd how the only witnesses to this White Fang incident are a bunch of faunus."
Sun straightened himself to match the eye level of the detective, slightly glaring at him for his implication. "What's that supposed to mean?"
The detective turned his attention towards Sun, unfazed by the faunus's stare. "All I'm saying is that I don't believe in coincidences."
Before things could get out of hand, a loud voice from behind called their attention.
"Blake Belladonna!"
Running past the police barricade by the entrance of the dock was Weiss, with Yang not too far behind. Although Weiss' focus was purely on her missing teammate, Yang was quick to recognize the detective on the scene.
"Detective Bolton." The blonde boxer scowled as they approached.
Seeing the newcomers, especially the blonde, got Bolton to immediately shift his attention and frown. "Xiao Long." He hissed before gesturing to the faunus he was interrogating. "You know them?"
"We're teammates," Weiss answered. "Now if you will excuse us, we have a long discussion to get to-"
"Hold on right there," He interrupted before standing ahead of the heiress. "This is an active crime, and I am currently in the middle of an interrogation. So whatever 'thing' you all have, it's going to have to wait."
"There is nothing to interrogate, Bolton. They gave their statements and have the right to leave." Yang said.
"They'll leave when I tell these animals- !"
"Watch your words, Bolton." A voice called out. "Unless you want another citation."
Once more, 2 more people were seen approaching. One of them, Yang recognized, was very annoyed Sergeant Frank from the station while the other, much to Blake's surprise, was Ruby, who was already in civilian attire.
"Walk away, Lyle." Ruby suggested. "If you know what's good for you."
Seeing that he was outmatched at the comment, Detective Lyle Bolton decided to cave in and took it as a sign to leave. Folding his notebook, he apathetically turned to the two faunus before leaving. "Don't leave town."
Shaking his head, Sergeant Frank had to soon follow after him. "I'll keep him out of trouble."
Ruby smiled and nodded. "Thanks for the ride, Frank."
"Just make sure your sister stays out of trouble next time."
"Hey! I wasn't even involved this time!"
As they walked away, Blake couldn't help but notice the history between the sisters and the dick. "I'm guessing this wasn't your first encounter with him."
"No," Yang grimaced, her focus not leaving Bolton until she was sure he was out of sight. "And it won't be the last."
Ruby merely shook her head at the memories. "Let's just say that our Dad had to always get personally involved whenever Yang had an incident with him."
"Regardless," Weiss interrupted before pulling all their attention back towards Blake. "You! Do you have any idea how long we've been looking for you?!"
"Weiss, I just want to tell you that I am no longer- "
"More than 6 hours! 6 grueling hours of walking and self-reflection! And throughout that time, I've only had one question in mind."
Blake hesitated, but still asked. "And what's that?"
"Are you still affiliated with the White Fang?"
"No."
"Then there isn't more to be discussed."
The tenseness of Weiss' shoulders dropped as she breathed out a sigh of relief. Without another word, she then wrapped her arms around Blake and hugged her, surprising all 3 girls.
"Next time something this big comes up, you come to your teammates, and not…" Weiss stopped as she eyed Sun out of the corner of her eye. "...a complete stranger."
Blake was speechless. This…was unexpected. It's been long since she had this type of comradery. Not since Adam and Illia. Turning her head towards the others, Yang grinned and gave a thumbs-up while Ruby smirked and shrugged playfully. No matter what, they all had her back. It warmed her heart.
As the two separated from the hug, Blake held back a tear and smiled at them all. "Okay, next time." She too smiled and nodded.
"Aww yeah! Team RWBY back together again!" Yang fist-pumped the air before asking. "Although, I gotta ask you Blake. This is awfully a lot of damage for just 2 people. Did something happen or do you secretly have some sort of 'wild' side you haven't shown us?"
Blake stiffened and her eyes couldn't help but quickly dart at Ruby. "W-Well, it was actually-"
"Sergeant! You better come and look at this."
All eyes turned towards one of the kneeling CSIs on scene as Sergeant Frank jogged towards him.
"What is it?"
"We might want to call someone from Atlas."
"Why is that?"
"We, uh, may have a bird problem." The CSI said while raising his gloved hand for everyone else to see. It was a Birdarang.
Many officers groaned and cursed to themselves at the thought of a vigilante in the city. Sergeant Frank pinched the bridge of his nose and prayed to the gods that it was a copycat. Roman Torwick and the White Fang were one thing, but the Atlas myths? Their work is going to be cut out for them. Who knew what else was coming their way.
Team RWBY had their own separate reactions, with half of them being indifferent.
Yang simply whistled. "Looks like it's going to be an interesting year."
Weiss, however, was shell-shocked. Her limbs stood frozen while her eyes practically bulged out of her sockets. It can't be. Is she alive? Where has she been! Why now?!
Why did she leave?
Although all eyes were on the projectile, Ruby couldn't help, but feel someone else's on her. She was being watched. Glancing around, she found nobody looking remotely at her direction, which spooked her even more.
Little did she notice a dark figure kneeling from the rooftops, eyeing her every move.
And that nearly wraps up Rise of the Girl Wonder! 7.8k words for this chapter! I apologize for how slow everything has been and want to thank everyone who stuck around this long and enjoyed the work. I will be posting 1 more chapter before beginning a new story that will follow up this one and will coincide with Volume 2. Hopefully it won't take too long in writing. Once again, I would like to thank everyone for the support, please leave a review or a comment on the story, and I hope you enjoy.
I do not own any of the characters. All characters and names used are owned by either Rooster Teeth and Detective Comics (DC).