Fangs of the Exiles
Rated M
Rwby
Summary:
Life is not about what happens to you, but what you make of it... At least that's what everyone says. Two faunus will answer whose way is right, carrying the will of a titanic kingdom while the other, the spirit of one who shouldn't exist. Forgotten, their paths will cross, for better or worse.
A/N:
Chapter 16: What Remains of What We Were-1
[Branwen Tribe Camp]
The distant rumbling of clouds above signaled an approaching storm. The Branwen tribe on the outskirts of Anima started preparing themselves to endure the rain and conceal their whereabouts from potential passersby. However, at the back of their compound, a sizable cage was situated, cleverly hidden from view behind the most enormous tent.
Inside, sat the restrained forms of Pyrrha and Ciel.
It had been at least a week since they'd been taken captive by the Branwen tribe and by the looks of things, she still hadn't recovered from the traumatic memory of her companion and sweetheart being cut down before her eyes. Since being taken prisoner, neither had received a decent shower. Their eyes had prominently displayed dark bags, making both gazes far more vicious than intended. They would hardly eat the food brought to them.
All Pyrrha wanted to do was stare off as if waiting for something or someone to appear. Ciel tried to come up with an idea on how to escape, but without any feedback from the near-catatonic Pyrrha, there was only so much she could do.
Vernal was currently watching over the girls with lethargy. She hardly said anything over a barely audible hush. The only interesting thing of note that occurred throughout her watch duty came when she noticed the rain beginning to come down. Vernal looked on as Pyrrha didn't even flinch from the harsh and icy tempest that drenched her, soaking her clothes to her skin.
"I could get you a blanket," she offered. "I doubt it could take the place of the warmth you want."
"Big talk from a low-budget bandit! You had to lie to defeat Aganju yet you're bragging as if you did something!"
"You don't know anything..." Vernal shot back at the somber faunus, her soft tone veiling the smoldering rage lurking underneath.
"I heard what you told him before you set my brother up to be stabbed! You pretended as if you knew him before letting your boss...!"
Ciel felt a burning in her throat that silenced her outcry. Only small hiccups came out now, forcing the bandit to leave her post to get a breather. Grateful that another of her clan members was nearby, she moved through the camp, pressing forward until she was sure she was alone. The peace and solitude of her chosen hiding spot did little to quell the storm in Vernal's stomach.
You set up my brother to be stabbed!
Vernal took many deep breaths in hopes of staving off the torrent that crawled through her core. She leaned against a tree knowing that she couldn't hold back the sadness as tears began to fall. Such knowledge was only usurped by the fact that nobody could see this. It was nothing short of frailty that others could exploit. It was unbecoming of the Raven Branwen's lieutenant, no less.
Nevertheless, she couldn't stop the pain that flowed out, sobbing quietly enough to not alert any who might be passing by. Her head ached but it paled in comparison to the agony in her heart.
You set him up to be killed!
Only the strong survive! He knew this!
This was the first rule of the Branwen tribe; An unfortunate truth that resulted in many lives lost so that the clan would continue to thrive. Strength in both numbers and skill was a must.
So, why did Vernal feel this way?
It was the accusation from the blue-haired faunus that triggered this. The charge of deception was valid. Vernal felt like she would vomit at any moment when the sound of wings flapping above her sent a chill down her spine.
"I wondered where I'd find you..."
As she looked up, she saw those glowing red eyes staring down from a branch above. She felt judged, and it weighed on her like a heavy burden, leaving her speechless. The woman quickly knelt in front of her subordinate, revealing her true emotions, which she usually kept hidden behind a mask.
"I see why you left your assignment without a word. Do you think it was wise to leave the prisoners in the hands of those less qualified?"
Vernal was so caught up in the wave of fear, she hadn't noticed the tears still flowing down her face. Having her leader witness her in such a weakened state added shame to the already ailing bandit. Leaving the camp just to express inner emotions of guilt and sorrow? Why wouldn't she feel defeated right now?
"Apologies... I... I needed a breather and something got in my eye."
"You don't have to lie, Vernal" Raven interrupted, her tone calm and understanding. "I'm surprised that it took you so long to react. You two were like siblings, always getting into mischief. It pained me to do that. Believe me, if things had been different, I would've offered another chance to join us... But..."
"I understand. It was for the safety of the tribe. I guess I know how you felt with..."
"Make no mistake, Vernal! It brought me no joy to have to extinguish such a promising flame, but I wouldn't risk you or anyone else's life without good cause."
Perhaps Raven was right.
"I just wished I had time to talk. His mind... The accident did more than separate us."
"Your desire is admirable, but we must always look at the facts before us before entertaining the notion of fantasies. No matter how enticing they might be, we can't lose sight of our goals," Raven placed a hand on the young woman's shoulder, a phantom of a grin daring to reveal itself before she abruptly turned to depart. "Take the time you need to make peace. If anyone asks, I'll tell them that you're on a private mission for me. Just... I'd be grateful if you'd give my condolences as well."
"Are you certain?"
"Trust me, the realm of spirits would sooner listen to you than me. I'm more suited to dealing with those in need of reminders of their mortality. Don't take too long though, the winds are bringing in a shift and I'll need our secret weapon."
"Understood, ma'am."
Vernal bowed her head turning in the opposite direction of her leader. She'd need more time to settle the emotions swimming within her soul. At least she had the understanding of her superior. That much would help, but she still needed to tackle the feelings of a past long lost. If Raven's words were as foreboding, she'd need to be at her best.
For now, she'd settle for the moment of respite, if only to make peace.
"If only we had more time..."
As the doors to Salem's chamber opened, two figures appeared. The taller one went in first, followed by a shorter woman. Salem maintained a serious expression as the duo bowed their heads in respect.
"Cinder, please wait outside."
The dark-haired woman opened her mouth to wheeze out her objection, but a glower directed at her shut that down. She took her exit, letting out a silent growl to pour out of her mouth as she shut the door. This left the green-haired girl to face the pale white woman alone.
"Emerald? Do you know why I summoned you?"
"N-No ma'am..." she didn't dare look her in the eye.
Salem stood from her chair, causing Emerald to flinch despite being on the other side of the room; the power dynamic was visible between the two. She slowly walked over to the girl, sensing her fear growing stronger with each step forward.
"I'm curious about a certain faunus and I believe you can help me."
"I- I can?"
She stopped, leaving only a couple of inches between them; she could taste the girl's fear when she leaned forward.
"I'd like for you to tell me about Cinder and this faunus she encountered during your time at Beacon. While I understand her obsession with the silver-eyed girl, but, the more she exhibits this behavior, my curiosity has turned to interest. I believe she's hiding something about him; Something crucial that's she keeping from me."
"What?" she gasped only to bow her head in submission once more. "I'm sorry. What do you mean exactly?"
Salem simply placed a hand on the girl's shoulder, feeling the air of trepidation radiating from the underling.
"Although I am unsure of his name or identity, I have deduced that she is connected to him. While the girl with the silver eyes can be explained, this individual holds greater significance for young Cinder. I would like to inquire about the events surrounding the fall of Beacon and ask that you provide me with any information you possess. Is that understood?"
"Y-Yes, ma'am...!"
With that, Salem strode back to her seat, ushering Emerald to join her with a gentle yet looming smile.
"Come. Sit," she extended a hand. "We have much to discuss."
[Somewhere on the Ocean]
As the sun set behind the horizon, the gulls above sought refuge before nightfall. The vast expanse of water stretched out for miles, greeting them in solitude. Meanwhile, a large ship steadily cruised down the ocean face. Onboard, a pair of fiery orbs gazed out at the breathtaking sight behind them. Though the sunset was stunning, the individual preferred to stargaze against the clear royal blue sky while leaning against their orange and black motorbike.
"Hey," she was pulled from her thoughts upon hearing the sound her a certain blond-haired girl. "What do you think?"
Yang now wore a tan jacket with orange lining and gold edging, unzipped halfway to show an orange crop top. The coat has darker brown short sleeves, a thick collar that completely encircles her neck, and two long gold-trimmed rectangular tails and fitted black pants. To say that she looked amazing would've been out of character for her, but, the slight tint of pink said enough.
"Y-You clean up alright. Better than the sweats and t-shirt combo." she joked.
"Oh please, I don't recall you having a problem with that look when we were... Mppfh!"
It was a close call, but Roxanne Octane managed to clamp her hand over Yang's mouth, preventing her from spilling their business to a couple passing by. As they walked by without a single glance, she finally removed her palm, mainly due to her partner licking her hand.
"Gaahh! Really, Yang?"
"What? I can't help that you taste good."
The ram opted not to bite at the obvious bait, instead, raising an annoyed brow.
"Mhmm... So what's up? Did you get our cabin?"
"Yep! We just need to lock up our bikes and we can go inside."
Roxanne nodded in understanding but made no move to head inside just yet. There was still so much on her mind. Meanwhile, Yang couldn't help but take in the sight of the girl's new wardrobe.
Yang wore a sleek sleeveless windbreaker in black and orange over a tight black muscle shirt that revealed her toned midriff. Gypsum arm sleeves covered her arms, designed to assist with her abilities while also concealing her scars. She swapped out her usual pigtails for an elegant high ponytail, showcasing her auburn locks. To finish the outfit, she opted for black leggings and dark brown boots.
"Gotta hand it to you, Roxie. You look amazing yourself!"
"Thanks..."
"Alright, what's wrong? You're mopier than usual; like, Blake-level mopey."
"Coming from Miss sighs-a-lot. I lost count of how many times you exhaled depression!" she countered with a giggle before finally calming down. "I'm just a little nervous. Between your dad helping me get this bike and our journey to Mistral, I was just wondering about our friends..."
"...and your team?" Yang added.
"It's weird knowing that Aganju is just wandering Remnant. I know he can handle himself, but he is my partner after all. We've been friends ever since our initiation and yet, it's been so long since I've seen any of them," she sighed. "After hearing about Scylla, I've become a little paranoid sometimes. Of course, Esu's disappearance didn't help either. They said he was one of the fallen, but there was no trace of his body or evidence of his death. I feel like something's off."
Feeling a hand on her shoulder, orange, and lavender locked onto one another, neither backing down. That hand soon slipped into the Faunus' as her gaze softened.
"You've grown and I'm more than willing to bet that they've all been hard at work getting stronger themselves. I can't guarantee that things will be the same but, things will be okay. But, I understand how you feel."
"You do?"
"Of course! I miss my sister, and Weiss too. But, I know that they're going to be alright; At least, until I get my hands on Ruby."
"What about Blake?" Roxanne hated how sad her words sounded, but she didn't show it.
Yang stared out at the seemingly endless expanse of water, not even blinking as the dusk kissed her face. What about the cat girl who just ran off? What did she truly think about her sudden disappearance after Beacon fell?
"It hurt..." Yang placed her free hand over her chest. "She just ran away when I needed her the most. I felt betrayed and yet, I learned something important despite that pain."
"What's that?"
"While Blake will always be my friend, I had to open my eyes to find that I could have more. Every moment you spent helping and comforting me; every argument, every training session. You've not only been a good friend but I'm glad to say that you've become more to me too. Yes, I miss Blake. But, I also hope that she's safe too."
Roxanne gently pulled Yang close, her heart beating faster as she gazed into the blond's eyes. Without a word, she wrapped her arms around Yang and held her tightly, feeling the warmth of her body against her own. Yang was surprised at first, but soon melted into Roxanne's embrace, feeling safe and loved in her arms. Roxanne leaned in and placed a soft kiss on Yang's temple, sending shivers down her spine.
It was at that moment, Yang realized that she was falling for Roxanne and that this unprovoked act of tenderness was just the beginning of something beautiful.
"This stays between us... Clear, Sug?"
"Crystal!" she chuckled only to hug the Faunus right back, much to her disdain. "But, it's nice to know you're soft on me."
"I. Am. Not. Soft!" she grunted while trying to tear herself apart from the girl.
Even with the overexertion of their display, Roxanne couldn't deny that she enjoyed Yang's attitude as the stars overhead shined brightly. She figured that she'd enjoy the peace of these tender moments. Once they dock, it would be all business. From finding Ruby and the others to possibly running into Yang's mom.
As they embraced, her mind began to wander as well.
After months following the school's defeat, Scylla had a small monument placed over her grave, a sign of respect from the citizens of Vale. While this did little to curb the discrimination toward faunus as a whole, it was a gesture well received. With the culprit having never been found, the serpent's death had deeply impacted Roxanne and Aganju, strengthening their respective resolves.
You'd better not be dead, Fang... The ram smirked before joining Yang in their cabin.
Little did she know.
On Anima, Aganju had recovered from his near-death experience, and trained with the one who saved his life. Somehow, he managed to escape the jaws of death thanks to her. Like him, she too was a faunus who had faced the blade of betrayal and deception, resulting in a similar scar through her stomach. How she managed to survive was nothing short of miraculous, even if she wasn't as spry as she was before.
Sienna Khan.
Meeting her was a divine gift, one that she wasn't sure how it worked out. According to the tigress, she was supposed to meet with a representative who assisted Adam Taurus only to be ambushed before the meeting ever took place. The wound inflicted on her was deep, but, thankfully, missed anything vital. She mentioned another faunus yet refused to elaborate further until she was certain of his capabilities.
It was grueling work, but he soon got back to form.
Currently, he finds himself in a state of introspection alongside the woman who has always regarded him as her own. His outfit remains identical to that which he previously wore, but his sleeveless avant coat now proudly displays the emblem of a gray wolf, complete with eyes as black as the darkest of nights. Additionally, the old scarf that he has carried with him since childhood has been replaced with a vibrant and striking scarlet scarf, left behind by Pyrrha.
"Are you ready?"
"Ready as I'll ever be..."
His eyes looked back at the tigress with a serene gaze. Sienna was no fool though. Despite his calm exterior, she could see the fire blazing behind his eyes. She envied the youth, even if she wasn't that old herself. However, she would do her best.
"We should head to Haven Academy as soon as possible! Brothers willing, we may find your friends along the way."
Aganju bowed his head and rose to leave the room they called home for the past week. His road to recovery was irritating, but valued as a hand brushed the scarred flesh. His mismatched orbs narrowed as his mind flooded with the memory of his defeat. This was the second time he'd found himself injured and failing to protect someone he cared for.
Next time will be different... he exhaled, placing Cerberus in its scabbard behind him. Ciel. Pyrrha... Please be patient.
After speaking with Emerald in private, Salem traversed the halls of her estate. As she crossed down to the deepest levels of the castle, her steps would be the only thing to accompany her. She found comfort in this. No Tyrian gushing over her. No Watts and Cinde bickering about their roles. No complaints from Hazel.
It was paradise hearing her heels click against the stone steps. Deeper and deeper she moved until she came across a lone door. Behind it, the sounds of combat could be heard. No, this was something else. It was far too ferocious to just be a battle cry. Her lips tugged upward into a sinister grin as she opens the door leading into a pitch-black room.
Bloodlust.
Oh, how she relished that sensation. But, there was no time for such luxuries, not when there was work to be done and plans to enact. Her bloody gaze fell upon a lone figure who'd just finished running their hand through the gut of a Grimm. She snapped her fingers, causing a trail of torches to ignite, thus revealing the identity of the inhabitant.
As he turned to her, his accursed gaze filled with a craving for more destruction, Salem rested the back of her hand under her chin in intrigue. They remained that way until the male's demeanor shifted to a more... civilized impression. The wrath that previously flashed from behind a White Fang mask was now replaced with knowing respect as he kneeled before her.
"I trust that you've enjoyed my entertainment?"
"Forgive me," he bowed respectfully. "While I am grateful for an audience, my instincts are insatiable."
Salem raised a hand, silencing the brawny male.
"I do not need explanations regarding your nature. Although I must admit that it is an admirable trait, one I'd hope to maintain should you ever grow tired of your current hire. Adam Taurus must think highly of you if he's sending you directly to me. Especially when your road to acquiring your rank was paved on a road that many would consider less than trustworthy."
"I take my role very seriously, Your Grace."
"Indeed. How did you find yourself under Adam's leadership?"
The figure paused for only a second before finally steadying himself. He stared at the pallid woman, picking up a commanding aura that left no room for conversation aside from her desired topic.
"I killed my partner during the attack on Beacon" he announced plainly, amusing Salem.
"Did you love them?"
"Her?"
"Them," she corrected him. "We both know that the young faunus known as Scylla wasn't your average woman. Though her physical form reflected that of the title, it was their heart and soul that truly made them the person that fell to your sword."
"I only did what needed to be done. She was a traitor to the cause and I eliminated her. Nothing more..."
The young male let out a sigh before hardening his resolve once more. Here, he couldn't show any weakness. On foreign soil, he was at a disadvantage, especially in a land full of Grimm. With Tyrian having returned, even the tiniest display of vulnerability was an invitation for execution. Even then, Salem's gentle smile never left as she approached him.
"And yet, even behind that mask, I can see the pain and guilt as if you were wearing a sign to announce your sin," Salem chuckled softly, lacking any malice behind her observation.
"If that is the price to accomplish our goal, then I proudly pay it."
"Fortunately for you, you'll have a chance to prove it. I've arranged for you to join two of my own as they will be speaking with some contacts about the plot to take down Haven Academy. I'm sure the new High Leader would be more than eager to succeed where they failed at Beacon."
"And... What is my role in this plan, ma'am?"
Salem inspected his curiosity, visually drinking in the vicious aura seeping from his pores. Such malice was reminiscent of the one she'd been trying to seek, yet there was something... off about this one. For now, she'd settle for removing the mask, exposing golden eyes that shone like the burning sun itself.
"You are to remain in the shadows as you make your way to Atlas after the meeting. Cinder and Watts will handle the school, along with Hazel. Under no circumstances are you to report this to Adam."
Was she serious? This woman, upon their first meeting, was ordering him to ignore direct orders. Did she know something? Was this a test? All he knew was that the woman was not to be trifled with. Even though he dwarfed her in size, she carried with her a spiritual lesson that spoke louder than any command ever could.
Strength alone will not bring victory.
"I don't... What you're asking of me is..."
"Treachery to the throne of your new High Leader?" he flinched as her hand rested on his shoulder. "While Adam is formidable, he is far from a righteous commander. Word has spread of the untimely death of your previous leader and the stability of your tribe is being called into question. Wouldn't you prefer a new lease on life?"
"Under your command, I presume?"
"Of course not," she laughed at his smugness. "While having you as an ally is preferred, I also know that having such support is better suited to work on their own rather than in a group."
"Divide and conquer."
He's a quick learner, Salem mused, turning to leave the room. "I am a fair woman, Esu. No matter your decision, you will be free to leave these lands without obstacles. However, I give you this choice: After the meeting, you will have a choice of who to follow. Between my associates, your decision will determine the next move."
Esu, the dragon faunus, the deceiver of Team ASRE, and a member of the White Fang, stood there before the powerful sorceress. His chest tightened at the magnitude of such a position, but something deep within him felt differently. For the first time since his betrayal, Esu felt freedom. He loved the work being put in to expand and enrich the faunus, but...
What if Adam fails?
The bull faunus being their faction's leader was not a part of the deal, yet it came to pass. Adam was ambitious and willing to do whatever it took to achieve his goals. No matter the threat, Adam had shown he was willing to do whatever was necessary to ensure he came out on top.
What would stop him from turning on you?
He wanted Scylla out of the way. He got you to do it!
Sienna Khan? You were the one sent to ambush her.
You're the one doing all of the dirty work and he's using you until he no longer needs you. Once your purpose is over, he will see you as the final threat! Why not get out and work toward your people's future on your terms?
"Would it be possible to go to Atlas now?"
"Excuse me?"
"Forgive me if I'm wrong, but wouldn't it be more effective if you sent me straight to Atlas now?" Seeing Salem's brows knit, he continued before she accidentally took his detour the wrong way. "With your intel, you must know that I've been presumed dead. However, that's only in Vale. If I come to Atlas, I could spin a tale and infiltrate Atlas Academy, giving you a man on the inside while you attack Haven."
Expecting her to retaliate for speaking against her plans, Esu was surprised to find her smiling at him. The glow of her eyes vanished as well, allowing him the chance to relax, just a little bit. The next few seconds were enough to make the dragon hold his breath, but he'd refrain from this. If he spoke out of turn, then he'd bear the brunt of his decision.
Thankfully, Salem took his words to heart, silently stepping away only to motion for him to follow. Normally, she'd punish anyone for disregarding her plots without permission, but she'd let this pass. Besides, there was work to be done, and a petty need to assert dominance would be an awful way to establish a lasting partnership.
Oh, Oz...
Since leaving Patch, Yang and Roxanne had lost track of time. Upon arriving at their destination, they were led through the Branwen Tribe's territory, passing by individuals with visible injuries from their failed attempts to ambush the girls. Despite the whispers and stares from those around them, Yang and Roxanne remained determined as they navigated through the compound with unwavering focus.
This wasn't a part of the plan, but on their way to find their friends, an unexpected side mission came knocking.
This wasn't the first time the tribe had encountered unwanted visitors but, seeing their fellow tribesmen get the stuffing beaten out of him made for an interesting investigation. With each step closer, more and more of the clan followed behind the young women until they stopped just short of their destination. By now, the pair were surrounded by various members of the tribe, each wondering just what their purpose for being there was.
As if on cue, Raven Branwen made her appearance.
Donning her mask, she looked to preserve her threatening form; a form that wouldn't last long upon seeing who her 'guests' were. While she didn't recognize the girl with auburn hair, she knew exactly who the blond was. The same could be said of her 'visitors'. She was known to many as a tough leader of her clan, a menace to villages and cities all around, and a capable fighter to rivals.
But, to Yang, there was only one name that she knew this woman by.
"Mom..."
You have got to be kidding me... First him and now her?! She rolled her eyes under her covering before nodding to her lieutenant who rushed inside shortly thereafter. There was no need to hide her face, so the older woman simply removed her Grimm-like face in favor of a more human approach.
"Yang..." she replied, setting her mask down. She wasn't happy in the slightest that her offspring had found her but, "So, after all of this time, you finally decide to visit me?"
If there was any signal of the girl's anger, it came in the form of her left arm shivering. Instinctively, she held the convulsing limb with her prosthesis while Roxanne side-eyed her in concern.
"You know that I searched for you. I spent years looking for you..."
"...and you found me! You were patient, determined, and strong enough to make your dream a reality!" the gusto behind her tone came off as more mocking than sincere, but a glance at her comrade helped Yang to remain silent; surely this farce couldn't last too much longer. "Well done, Yang. But, did you have to be so rough with my men?"
"They started it!" Now it was Roxanne's turn to respond, not appreciating the innuendo.
Thankfully, Yang returned the favor by calming her partner down.
Raven's grin turned to a straight line as she finally regarded the fall-locked girl.
"Well, you both certainly finished it." Seeing neither was amused, the tribe leader sought to move things along. "Right... I'm sure this is all overwhelming, but I must admit that you've proven yourself. So, any questions that you may have, I'll be happy to answer any. You two can stay with us tonight. I'll even have the chef up something for you both."
Much to Raven's surprise, Yang simply shook her head.
"That's not why we're here...!"
The earlier pleasantries were instantly dragged away by the whistling gale and replaced by heavy tension. Roxanne took notice of the bewildered stares and hushed whisperings around them. Grabbing her scarred arm, the ram kept her focus on the area around them while Yang continued to concentrate on the now visibly upset woman across from her.
"What was that?"
"We didn't come here for you. Ruby is somewhere in Mistral. She's with Qrow and she's going to need my help. I just need you to take us to her."
The sheer audacity of such a statement was noteworthy, even for Raven.
Despite her bruised ego, she had to admit that the machinations of her daughter coming here for such a reason was rather impressive, if not completely foolhardy. Still, she had a reputation to uphold, showcased by her casual scoffing.
"And why would I do that?"
"Because we're family..." Yang responded in an overdramatic fashion, placing her hands over her bosom.
"Family... Only coming around when they need something." From faux impression to pure annoyance now, Raven hissed her twin brother's name before returning her attention to her candid daughter. If this was how her ungrateful offspring was going to be, she'd rather not stay to see where things would end up. "I have to say, I'm disappointed. After all, you found me, didn't you? Why not take that drive and use it to find your little sister if she means that much to you?"
"Because you're going to save us time. Ruby is headed to Mistral, but there's no guarantee that she's made it there. Looking for her in Anima could take ages, but Dad told me how your semblance works."
The cocky smirk now rested on Yang Xiao Long's face as the others began whispering among themselves.
Not even a small handful of the tribe knew their leaders' semblance fully. Once more, Raven cursed, only this time, it was the name of her former lover and ex-husband. After Yang revealed how she could bond with certain people, thus creating portals to them, Raven finally spoke up, her rage held back only by a thinly veiled guise of disinterest.
"You've got one for Dad, one for me, and one for Qrow. So, make a portal to my uncle and we'll be on our way."
"If your sister is with Qrow, then I fear that she's already a lost cause."
"What's that supposed to mean?!" Roxanne growled, not liking the game that the older woman was playing.
"You two don't want to get mixed up in all of that. Ozpin is not the man you think he is, and Qrow is a fool for trusting him."
Yang's eyes blazed with fury as she unleashed a torrent of angry words at the person who had dared to make that comment. Her voice shook with rage as she expressed her frustrations and grievances, leaving no doubt as to the depth of her anger and indignation. Roxanne watched in awe and fear as her friend's emotions boiled over, wondering if she would ever be able to calm down.
"I don't care what you think. Nothing is going to keep us from finding my little sister!"
"Well, aren't you stubborn?" Raven cooed mockingly.
"I get it from my mom..." Yang fired back coldly.
"Well, if that's how you feel, then it sounds like we're done here," The elder woman then waved her hand dismissively. "Take them away."
The men and women surrounding them began to close in on the two, much to the girl's chagrin. Roxanne took a fighting stance while Yang just watched as her mother gave the order without hesitation. How could she? When her father described Raven Branwen as difficult, she didn't think he'd meant downright unbearable.
"Did you not hear me?" she yelled out, halting the woman's exit. "I said send us to Qrow dammit!"
Crimson orbs now glared at the pale woman nonchalantly staring back. Gone were the delightful purple gems, replaced by the bloody optics of a tumultuous young woman.
"That's enough! You watch your mouth in front of our leader!"
Yang merely stared at the guy, trying fervently to figure out if he was trying to be brave or just plain stupid. After settling on both options, she narrowed her eyes, ready to blow off some steam.
"Make me..."
The male rushed forward with his bone marrow sword held high in the air. Yang merely ducked, sending the guy flying over her. To make matters worse, Roxanne rushed over to greet the poor sap with a devious grin before cracking his head with her skull. This dazed him enough for the faunus to land a spinning heel kick that sent him flying past the massive tent, resulting in a girlish squeal, faint as it was.
"Wait..."
Yang didn't hear this as she was now focused on a second tribesman whom she kneed in the gut before punching him in the jaw. The force of the impact sent him careening into a large brown blanket, revealing a certain white-haired heiress.
"Yang?"
"Weiss?!" the two looked on incredulously at the heiress. The three girls looked at one another, trying to make sense of things.
"Hello?" a mysterious yet familiar voice rang in the ears of the faunus.
"Pyrrha?"
"PYRRHA?!" Weiss and Yang yelled out in unison.
"Weiss?"
"Ciel?! What the heck is going on here?!" Weiss blinked at the sound of the Atlesians voice.
After a few more moments of shock as well as fear-induced stillness from the rest of the tribe, she huffed her frustrations.
"Well, guess subtlety's out..."
Using her glyphs, Weiss instructed the icy knight to grow to gigantic proportions, thus destroying the cage that kept her prisoner.
She then ran off over to her friends who were still trying to make sense of what was going on. If there ever was a good place to start, one could guess that the obvious visual was the best option.
"What is that?" Yang supplicated, motioning toward the colossal construct.
"Don't worry about it," Weiss dismissed, ready to strike even without her weapon. "What are you two doing here?"
"Well, that's my mom and she can take us to Ruby."
"Wait, your mom kidnapped me?!" Weiss turned to the cages that held Pyrrha and Ciel. "...Kidnapped us?!"
"You kidnapped them?!" Yang yelled.
Raven observed the chaos unfolding before her with growing irritation.
What started as an unwanted visit from her 'prodigal daughter' and her friend had now escalated into something that would spell doom for everyone around. Even worse, the trio of girls was preparing to take on the entire encampment who were all too happy to sate their need to salvage the pride of their leader.
This needed to end before things became irreparably damaged.
Still, she wouldn't sully her hands as a bolt of lightning crashed down between the girls and the now angry tribe.
"ENOUGH!"
Everyone turned to see Vernal holding Weiss's sword in one hand, and a restrained and blindfolded Pyrrha Nikos in the other. Ciel was soon brought to join her, showing that the bandits held the upper hand. Silence once again took over the camp as Raven could finally hear herself think.
Thank you, Vernal," she acknowledged before turning to her subordinates. "If you people don't keep it together, this place will be crawling with Grimm. Give the girl and the weapon back. And unbind the others."
"But..."
"Do as I ask! I'd rather not have a repeat of last time..."
Against her wishes, Vernal growled but returned the rapier to Weiss Schnee before shoving the secured Pyrrha into the arms of her friends. While they worked to undo the knots, Raven wasted little time in getting their attention.
"You two... in my tent, now." She pointed to Weiss and Yang specifically. "The rest of you are to remain here while I sort things out.
"Why?"
Raven ignored the act of defiance and entered her home without so much as a passing glance. Soon, the crowd disbursed, leaving only the foursome to try and collect themselves. They all had so many questions and yet, with so little time Weiss hugged her teammate as her construct soon faded away. After the cloth was removed from Pyrrha's eyes, she and Ciel were uncertain of how to handle the look of worry that Roxanne had.
Both knew what she wanted to ask, yet neither wanted to be the one to answer that question. For now, they'd remain content with leaving the elephant to roam about, at least until they were guaranteed safety.