Nov 19, 2022
An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works
The whole current story is available on AO3.
seen from United States
seen from China
seen from United States
seen from United States
seen from Malaysia
seen from United Kingdom
seen from Singapore
seen from United States
seen from Portugal
seen from Moldova
seen from China
seen from United States
seen from United States
seen from China
seen from United States
seen from Türkiye
seen from South Korea
seen from Switzerland
seen from China
seen from Australia
An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works
The whole current story is available on AO3.
Birds of a Feather (A RWBY Fanfic) Chapter 3
Trigger Warnings: TW: Violence TW: Blood TW: Fighting TW: Character Death
Content Warning: Yang VS Mercury Battle, Penny VS Pyrrha Battle, Violet VS Drones VS Grimm, Protective Qrow and James, Small Child at Risk.
Back in the private stadium box with James, Winter, Qrow myself and a few attendants we watched the single matches start. James handed me a small platter consisting of tea, a few finger sandwiches and crackers as everyone else requested stuff from the attendants. I was getting a bit tired, I had been getting used to taking midday in the middle of a giant sunbeam naps, chuckling at myself as I watched as the battlegrounds were setting up for the match. Yang versus Mercury, was the first one to show for us I was quite excited to see Yang make it this far.
“Would all other combatants please leave the stage!” Professor Port called out from his announcer's box.
The field cleared of the other combatants, leaving just Yang and Mercury on the ground. There was a lot of cheering going on from the crowd, the air was tense with suspense on who would win. From what I saw of Mercury he was a good fighter, hadn't seen what his Semblance was yet perhaps it was passive like Qrow's? In this short time I could see a little bit of improvement from Yang on controlling the usage of her Semblance, which I was proud of as she was hot headed just like her mother.
“You better not go easy on me.” Yang said, could barely hear it as the microphones on the battlegrounds only picked up well on the loud noises.
“You wish.” Mercury said darkly, keeping a firm look on Yang.
They stood at the center several feet away awaiting the signal to start, they both looked tense ready to fight to the victory.
“Three! Two! One! Fight!” Professor Port shouted out along with the digital countdown on the giant screen that showed us stats, and aura percentage.
We watched closely as Yang made the first strong blow, they were evenly matched hand to hand fighters. Both easily went back and forth from being defensive to offensive proving they did belong in the single matches. I remember when I had participated in the Vytal Festival I made it up to the doubles but my teammate was a better suit for the single match, it had been such an amazing double match though. My fighting style wasn't really meant for long range but my Semblance made it easy for me to close the distances between my opponent.
There was a lot of shouting for Yang cheering her on from the crowd, she was doing a good job keeping her aura up and not using her Semblance yet. She used to be a bit over reliant on it and it would wear her out quickly as it drains Aura and overall energy. There were a few close calls she had. I was sitting on the edge of my seat proud of my niece doing an amazing job holding her own up against him.
She was absorbing each blow letting her Semblance power up waiting for a good point to release it. Mercury landed a rough blow sending her flying back, he had a smug look on his face as he dusted himself off as if he had won already. Her Aura was still at a decent level, with a shout Yang came back up running towards him, her red eyes apparent as she enabled her Semblance. She caught him off guard but he recovered quickly blocking her blows but she was whittling away what Aura he had left. With a final push Yang was able to land a blow square in his stomach sending him falling back his electric green Aura crackling as he dropped down to zero.
“What a way to kick off the finals!” Professor Port shouted out, and could see Yang let out a sigh of relief at her victory, eyes returning to their normal lilac color.
“Yang Xiao Long wins!” Dr Oobleck shouted making the final announcement.
“Go Yang!” I shouted, clapping my hands.
I watched as she went to walk off the podium, couldn't hear what Mercury mutters but all of a sudden Yang turns back at him as he stands up, legs a little wobble as he does. In a blink she lobs off a fire from Ember Celica at his legs sending him to the ground screaming in pain. The whole entire stadium gasps in shock at the scene unsure what had just happened before them, nothing like this had ever happened before in the history of the Vytal Festival.
“My word!” Dr Oobleck shouted out at a loss for words.
“Cut the cameras!” Professor Port shouted at the camera crew operators the horror in his voice.
“My leg, MY LEG!” Mercury screams in pain on the ground grasping it in pain, as his Aura had dropped to zero he wouldn't have been able to deflect the attack or even absorb it through his Aura to make it not detrimental, it was common practice to never attack someone with a low Aura.
Yang knew that. . .that is something all parents teach their kids at first it was a golden rule. Yang would never stoop that low, especially if she won. What did he say that was so offensive to her? I was shocked. I couldn't imagine what it was. . .even in the heat of the moment of her victory I knew she knew better. There had to be something. . .
“Qrow something is wrong she wouldn't have done that.” I said voice shaking with fear and anger, I needed answers.
“Dammit we need to get down there.” Qrow said getting to his feet.
“We will pull her aside for questioning. . .we all saw it. Vi it was right in front of our faces, she attacked him while his Aura was down.” James said watching as his Atlesian Knights drones followed a soldier to the ring surrounding Yang.
“That's what you get, you little- Huh?” Yang said loudly bouncing on the balls of her feet, lightly pounding her fists.
“Yang Xiao Long, stand down!” The lead soldier shouted training their gun on her, she turned to them looking wide eyed and confused.
I knew her well enough to know she knows what is right and wrong and wouldn't be acting like that if she had truly done that. There had to be something messing up with what our perception of the situation was, I just needed to find out. Jumping up to my feet, “She wouldn't do this, they don't need to arrest her James, let me talk to her!”
“What!? Why!?” Yang shouted out confused looking around in the crowd hoping for a familiar face to help her.
Qrow and I pushed out of the private box heading down the stairwell trying to get past people to get to Yang. Just as we were stepping on the dais the drones stopped us weapons pointed our way, watching as Emerald rushes past us to Mercury looking wide eyed and shocked.
“Mercury!” Emerald shouted kneeling before Mercury checking him over trying to comfort him.
“Why'd she do that!? WHY'D SHE ATTACK ME!?” Mercury cried out hysterically pointing at Yang, his voice shaking a look of fear in his eyes.
“Let me pass Tincan or I'll shred you.” I growled trying to push past it.
Qrow shoved past the drone, I made a step to move forward but my balance was thrown off and I fell to my hands and knees, grumbling as I tried to get to my feet. Qrow walked with the soldiers as they ushered Yang off the dais of the battlegrounds having loud words with them as he did. There was a loud hubbub around us, I felt a large pair of hands grasping under my arms gently helping me to my feet. Looking up I saw General Ironwood looking at me, there was a kind concerned look on his face that was quickly replaced with an expressionless look.
“C'mon Violet let's get you to your feet, they need to get him off the field, they won't hurt her just talk to her.” James reassured, pulling me back a little as paramedics got onto the scene.
“Please, somebody help him!” Emerald pleaded as the paramedics came over to them. “Can you do something!?”
“We need to get this boy to a hospital. Grab a blanket.” The paramedic noticed the blood seeping from the injury through the pants.
Pulling the boy onto a stretcher and ushering him past Yang, “You don't understand! He attacked me, I swear!”
“Stow it! You've already caused enough of a scene!” The soldier shouted at her, nudging her back with the gun.
I watched as the paramedics followed behind Emerald left through a side exit as Yang was ushered down another hallway.
“Hey how about you go back to the box, Qrow and I will talk to her and see what we can find out.” James suggested a hand resting on the small of my back as he loomed over me, his body close to mine as all eyes were on us and the robots trying to clean the field.
“I want to go with you James.” I said looking up at him, wide eyed James let out a soft sigh in resignation, his giving into my request.
“Okay, why does that wide eyed look always make me weak?” James asked, as we headed down the same hallway.
The soldiers and drones had brought Yang back to the dorms, Qrow wasn't there. I have a feeling he was going to Ozpin about this, looking into Semblances that could make us all see a different version of the truth. As I knew Yang wouldn't do this, I just knew it in the pit of my stomach. I knew James was trying to remain biased about it all as his position required him to do so but I wanted him to show he was at least mad with me now. He looked expressionless to me as we got to the dorm two drones standing outside.
“I'm sorry, but you've left us with no choice.” Ironwood said as he walked in seeing the upset look on Yang's face.
“But he attacked me!” Yang said angrily, sitting on her bunk fist pounding against her knees in defiance. “Aunt Vi you know I wouldn't do that, what that screen showed. He came after me and I defended myself.
“Video footage and millions of viewers say otherwise.” Ironwood interjected, as Weiss, Ruby and Blake grumbled under their breath not believing that statement.
The three other girls were sitting together on the other bunk looking upset glaring at James, feeling threatened by his presence. I walked over to Yang, sitting next to her. I placed a hand on her arm consoling her.
“I believe you Yang I know you would never strike someone with low Aura.” I said reassuringly.
“Yang would never do that!” Weiss said in agreement, his voice raised in anger.
“Yeah!” Ruby shouted jumping to her feet standing beside Yang and myself.
“You all seem like good students, and the staff here at Beacon are fully aware that you would never lash out the way you did. . .under normal circumstances.” James started, Ruby slowly went back to her seat on the other bunk, watching him cautiously.
“What I believe and hope this to be is nothing more than the result of stress and adrenaline. When you're out on the battlefield, your judgment can become clouded in an instant. Sometimes you see things that simply aren't there. Even after the fight is past. . .”
“But I wasn't-” Yang interrupted defiantly.
“That's ENOUGH!” James shouted, his voice deep and commanding he squared up his stance forming an intimidating posture. “The sad truth is, whether it was an accident or an assault, it doesn't matter. The world saw you attack an innocent student. They've already drawn their own conclusions. And it's my job to inform you that. . .you are disqualified.”
“James. . .” I pleaded softly, I knew he was speaking the truth, they wouldn't care of the truth of it all they have already viewed her as the villain, didn't mean I had to like it.
“You know there is nothing that I can do about it, the council of the tournament has already made that decision.” James answered me sternly. “I'm sorry this happened, I will try to smooth things over the best I can.”
With that Ironwood left the room, I could hear the stomp of the drones leaving and following him. It angered me that he was right; the damage was already done with what sway and power we hold as Hunters and Huntresses; our reputation can easily be shifted in the public eye. Kill a bunch of Grimm a hero but someone gets hurt by accident and it's all over your public image is ruined.
“You guys believe me, right?” Yang asked softly, sounding defeated.
“Duh!” Ruby exclaimed.
“I do, I know there was some foul play involved, Qrow and I will look into it. I know it won't get you re-qualified but I want to get to the bottom of it.”
“You're hotheaded, but not ruthless.” Weiss replied, pacing around the room, arms crossed.
“Blake?” Yang asked, worried by her friend not easily responding, the young Faunus turning away from her.
“I want to believe you. . .” Blake said softly.
“Huh!?” Ruby exclaimed incredulously.
“What's that supposed to mean?” Weiss asked in a threatening tone.
“Blake?” Yang asked as tears started to spill down her face, voice trembling.
“How can you say something like that? Yang would never lie to us!” Weiss said angrily, stomping her foot getting defensive.
“I've known Yang since she was a small girl, she wouldn't ever do a thing like that.” I spoke up, vouching for her.
“I had someone very dear to me change. It wasn't in an instant, it was gradual - little choices that began to pile up. He told me not to worry. At first they were accidents, then it was self-defense. Before long, I even began to think he was right.” Blake explained, taking a pause, looking away wrapping her arms around herself. “This is all just. . .very familiar. But you're not him. And you've never done anything like this before. So. . .I want to trust you. I will trust you. But first, I need you to look me in the eyes and tell me that he attacked you. I need you to promise me that you regret having to do what you did.”
“I saw him attack me, so I attacked back.” Yang said confidently, wiping tears out of her eyes, steadying her shaking body.
“Okay. Thank you.” Blake said softly, reaching out to Yang placing a reassuring hand on her arm.
“I think I'm gonna rest up.” Yang said letting out a tired sigh, kicking off her boots flopping down on her bunk bed.
“We'll get out of your hair.” Blake said as the other got up nodding in unison.
“I'll come and check up on you later okay? I'll bring some treats with me. Some fruit and clotted cream?” I asked as I pulled the blanket up over her, tucking her into bed.
“That sounds good, Aunt Violet. . .I have a question.” She asked softly looking up at me as the others left the room, the door closing gently behind them.
“Yeah?” I asked, sitting down on the edge of the bed, running my hands through the thick purple hair of mine, pulling it back into a loose ponytail.
“Had. . .your child made it, would have you allowed them to become a huntsman? Knowing what you know that can happen in the lifestyle?” She asked, in a tentative tone knowing this was a touchy subject.
“I would have given them the choice, we would have been very honest about life. Just like I was to you and Ruby when you both asked me about being a Huntress. You remember that talk we had?” I answered a hand unconsciously reaching to my stomach feeling the thick scar run across my midsection.
“Yeah, it was more informative than dad's sex talk.” Yang said with a derisive laugh, resting on her back now with an arm resting on her forehead remembering that talk.
“Oh I can imagine Tai told you no sex ever and was super vague on how your anatomy works.” I chuckled knowing he was one to shy away from such talks, he had me teach the girls about their periods.
“Why do you ask?” I asked, it was a hard subject to talk about.
“I. . .just wonder how many hunters and huntresses have pure intentions of saving people from Grimm. . .It scares me with the thought of people who just want to hurt other people. We have so much strife as it is. . .”
“I understand that reasoning, it is a scary thought. But thinking purely like that will only bring you further down. It's hard. I know I sometimes get stuck in a pit of despair but I have to remind myself of the positives around me, that's why I plant flowers. It's a reminder that even if things look barren and bleak, life can start over. There will be people who will try to hurt others no matter what but that is part of the balance of life. I find it best to surround myself with the good. Like your teammates they seem like a good bunch, it helps.”
“I understand, Aunt Vi. I'm sorry to bring up your loss. . .thanks for helping me, I think I'll take a nap.”
“You're welcome Yang, sleep well.” I said smiling fondly at her leaning in giving her forehead a kiss.
By the time I got back to the stadium the next battle had already started, Pyrrha Nikos versus Penny Polendina as I could see from the read out on the screen. I didn't bother to go back to the private box as I received a text from Qrow saying he was okay and with Ozpin at the school at the moment. I took the nearest empty seat looking at the battle before me, as soon as I focused on the two the whole stadium gasped in unison.
Before us the opponent from Atlas Penny Polendina was being torn into pieces by the very wires that attached her swords to her. Pyrrha uses her Semblance of Polarity against her opponent, separating her into several different pieces. Pyrrha looked terrified as if the sight of six floating swords was a woman who has been in several tournaments like this before. . .more things not adding up to this day. My heart dropped at the sight, Pyrrha dropping to her knees as she comprehended what had happened. The shrill scream that filled the stadium was enough to break glass as the people were stunned by the sight before them.
“Broadcast, what are you doing? Kill the feed!” Professor Port shouted, you could see him on the screen pushing against his earpiece looking stunned.
“What!? How is that possible!?” Dr Oobleck asked, confused, clearly the operators were unable to change the feed at all.
As if to fix it for Dr Oobleck the screen changed, there was a brief bit of static, a crackle of audio feedback as the new screen showed a red screen with a black chess piece of a Queen. I had seen that piece before but where? It was a familiar calling card. . .the voice that came over the speaker was a gravelly woman's voice, full of venom.
“This is not a tragedy. This was not an accident. This is what happens when you hand over your trust, your safety, your children, to men who claim to be our guardians, but are, in reality, nothing more than men. Our Academies' Headmasters wield more power than most armies, and one was audacious enough to control both. They cling to this power in the name of peace, and yet, what do we have here? One nation's attempt at a synthetic army, mercilessly torn apart by another star pupil. What need would Atlas have for a soldier disguised as an innocent little girl? I don't think the Grimm can tell the difference.” The ominous voice said in an even tone of voice, it was sending shivers down my spine.
Looking down at Pyrrha she was crying a hand holding her stomach with one and covering her mouth with the other, shaking visibly. I stood up to my feet shaken, trying to process what had happened, the voice continuing on.
“And what, I ask you, is Ozpin teaching his students? First a dismemberment, now this? Huntsman and Huntress should carry themselves with honor and mercy, yet I have witnessed neither. Perhaps Ozpin felt as though defeating Atlas in the Tournament would help people forget his colossal failure to protect Vale when the Grimm invaded its streets. Or perhaps this was his message to the tyrannical dictator that has occupied an unsuspecting kingdom with armed forces. Honestly, I haven't the slightest clue as to who is right and who is wrong. But I know the existence of peace is fragile, and the leaders of our kingdoms conduct their business with iron gloves. As someone who hails from Mistral, I can assure you the situation there is. . .equally undesirable. Our Kingdoms are on the brink of war, yet we, the citizens, are left in the dark. So I ask you: When the first shots are fired. . .who do you think you can trust?”
There was an eerie silence as the threatening woman stopped speaking, like the calm before a storm. The moment when all sound goes as if it's in a void, I knew that sound didn't bode well generally meant a lot of Grimm. This place was full of people, all fearful and distraught by what had just happened adding to the already tense emotions from earlier today this place was becoming the perfect target for Grimm. The sound of the school's alarm system let out a piercing wail that sent the adrenaline running through the body, sending hair up on end. The screens went back to normal with the alert broadcast showing orange and caution in bold letters.
“Alert. Incoming Grimm attack. Threat level: Nine. Please seek shelter in a calm and orderly manner.” The automatic broadcast system called out in a loud clear tone.
The crowd started to panic and everyone started pushing past everyone. I tried to slow people down and have them leave calmly but I was pushed aside easily. Being slammed back into the seat toppling over landing on my back painfully. Letting out a grunt in pain as someone was jumping over the seats as they tried to exit stepping on my stomach making me cringe in pain.
“Ladies and gentlemen, please. There is no need for panic.” General Ironwood called out from the announcer's box over the loudspeaker trying to regain some semblance of order.
As he said that a giant Nevermore landed onto the roof of the stadium, the force field shimmering brightly under the weight of the giant Grimm. The Nevermore started stabbing at the force field with its beak, with each stab the force field glimmered and crackled as it started to break down. Jumping back to my feet, I leapt over the seat pulling out my scroll calling Qrow.
“Qrow are you okay?” I shouted, having to speak loudly over the screaming, I managed to shove myself in a narrow hallway freeing myself of the herd of people evacuating.
“Yes, I'm with Glynda. We just left Ozpin and we are heading to the city to help with the Grimm. Where are you?” Qrow shouted.
“I'm in the hallway of the stadium. I got caught in the hoard of people panicking that there is a Giant Nevermore on the roof of the stadium. I'll join you in a second.”
Pushing past some people I turned back briefly to the Nevermore still working on the force field, the immediate threat was the Grimm that the civilians were rushing to rather than the one they were running from. As I got into the open, I looked around and there were all of Ironwood's drones standing guard at the alert shooting at any oncoming Grimm protecting the people. Overhead I could see the airships flocking our way in the dark of the night, the sirens still loud in my ears, the scream of people, the roar of Grimm. It was deafening.
“Stay with the Drones, they can protect you!” I shouted to the people trying to help lead them to safety.
A giant Ursa was swarming a pack of Drones that people had flocked too, pulling out one of my daggers with a deadly precision striking the Ursa right in the throat. With a blink of an eye I activated my Semblance teleporting to the dagger grabbing it in the middle of the dust the Ursa dissolved into.
“Keep those people safe!” I shouted at the Drones, my normally light purple eyes a dark intense shade of purple now.
My Semblance allowed me to teleport a distance of fifty feet away in a blink of an eye which helped me a lot with close combat fights. I was looking around for Qrow or even the girls to pack with them to help take the Grimm down. I saw a hoard of Boarbatusk rushing through slamming into stands tusks covered in debris and blood. Running towards them, tail out straight behind me helping me keep my balance as I leapt onto one pulling it back some as I pulled on the large curved tusk stabbing down into the base of the next, teleporting to the next in a quick motion just a blur of motion as I stabbed at the Boarbatusk herd swiftly taking them out. Landing on all fours as my tail swished back and forth as I looked around for another Grimm to go after my eyes, picking up everything clearly in the dark, focusing my hearing on the Grimm rather than the screaming.
There were so many different types of Grimm all over the place, Ironwood's Drones were doing great for cover fire. In my inspection for my next attack I saw a small child screaming huddled in the wreckage of a food stall, a mother not too far off screaming out for her child. My heart dropped as I saw the kid terrified for their life. There were two large Creep Grimm scrambling on their stocky two limbs long poisonous tongues lashing out of their mouth toward the child. Lunging forward I teleported to the child pulling them into my chest as I twisted back my tail smacking the nearest Creep knocking them out of the way. Lashing out with a dagger cutting off the tongue of the nearest one, tucking the child closer to me I rolled further away teleporting once I was back on my feet away from the Grimm. It was harder to teleport with a person there was a bit more math involved with a person and can't go as far either but it took me far enough away from the Creeps.
“My baby!” The mother shouted as I stumbled a little regaining my balance turning her way.
I handed the child off to her, pushing them towards the crowd by the Drones. It happened so quickly but felt so slow as everything changed. . .looking up at the scrambling airships watching all but one start to jolt and shake as the human pilots evacuated. The drones surrounding us stopped in place the bright blue light on their faces saying they were online to the Atlas servers, flickered eerily as the bodies jolted and stopped all function.
“What's going on?” The mother asked, scared that the Grimm destroyed the Drones close to them.
The Drones jolted to life, the Atlesian blue gone replaced with a deep crimson color. The Drone staggered as it moved forward again like an unskilled puppeteer, they slowly turned toward us weapons aimed our way. Instinctively I shoved the mother and child out of the way as the Drone shot at us, I was too slow.
The scream I couldn't tell who it was from. . .the pain that burned at my face was intense. The smell of burnt flesh filled my nose. Landing on the ground rolling in the gravelly path, the taste of blood filling my mouth. My body froze as it struggled to gain control over the pain, caught off guard completely not activating my Aura in time to protect me from the blast. Panting heavily on my knees the air stinging the open wound on my face, my right eye was gone I couldn't see out of it I could feel the socket steaming from the heat, the smokey bits of burnt hair floating in my view as a chunk of my thick purple and pink hair. Had it not been for adrenaline I would have noticed a chunk of flesh completely charred on my cheek right next to my eye, the tip of my ear bleeding freely.
Why was General Ironwood's Drones turning on us? He said they were impossible to hack and that they were the safest soldiers in all of Anima. That I could trust my life if I ever saw one of his Drones to feel as if he was right there protecting me. Why did they attack? Why was I on the ground bleeding, my face burnt and my eye missing?
There was a thud beside me and a wail of a child as the mother fell to the ground, a laser blast to her chest barely missing the child. Her lifeless body shielding her child even in death, her glazed over blue eyes staring at me as the Drones attacked humans, Faunus and Grimm alike. The child screaming for their mother full of fear knocked me back into reality, forcing myself to ignore the pain allowing my Aura to spark up and overpower the pain.
Leaping to my feet I teleported to the nearest Drone leaping on top of it slicing at the neck where the access ports were severing all the wires. I knew that to be a weak point of them as I had inspected them when James introduced them to me, that it wasn't something Grimm would attack but it would be hard for someone who was experienced in precision attacks. I didn't really do anything but precision attacks as I like to do the least strikes to finish the fight.
Severing each of the thirty Drones that were in my area, teleporting quickly it looked like a blur of a neon purple mist as each crumbled to the ground. The civilians were running away and some had fallen but I was taking out the Drones quicker than they could take them down. Panting heavily, my eye the same shade of neon purple always that darker color right before I teleport and after I teleport. The last Drone fell to the ground in a heap, the small courtyard free of Drones the Civilians finally escaped, minus the small child still screaming and crying.
It was hard to walk straight, out of breath having just teleported a bunch of time for a hoard of Boarbatusk and then culling about thirty Drones. It was a lot even for an experienced huntress like myself. My vision was hard to get clear as my brain was trying to readjust to one eye to see out of. Falling to my knees beside the fallen mother and her child, the small boy was wailing, shaking and scared. The face paint that had been on his face from earlier today was all smeared on his face, clothes dirty and torn blood from his mother's wound before it cauterized itself.
“Come here child, we have to go quick.” I said pulling him away from his mother.
“MOMMY!” The child screamed desperately grabbing at his mother, not wanting to leave his mother.
“She's gone. . .Gotta come with me.” I said, voice shaking as it pulled at my heartstrings.
Looking up as I heard a loud rumbling sound, an airship was coming in our general direction. Jumping to my feet stumbling a little from lack of depth perception and the child struggling in my arms. Barely running out of the way I looked to where people had managed to evacuate to, remembering that the street lamps that flashed are the ones that lead to a designated safe zone.
“Your face!” An old man shouted as I made it to a safe zone, a force field surrounding them as they opened it up for me.
“Take the kid. . .” I said stiffly as the man stared at me blankly, staring at my face, taking the crying child.
I didn't care we needed to get the Grimm under control. . .as I turned around I saw a swarm of White Fang members. . .we knew they would be coming. We were not prepared for this hacking. . .all of this. She has so many on her side now. . .could we win? Shaking off fear I pulled out my second dagger, they were two different weapons. The first blade I had been using called Jabber was a nine inch slightly curved dagger with a blood groove meant to take down Grimm quickly, the second dagger Wocky was similar in design but was straight with a poison coating on it. The Mad Hatter poison coated on the dagger was meant for bandits and such, it didn't kill it just made the affected temporarily delusional. Hit with the blade once would inject enough poison to make you delirious for a few hours, light headed and slowed motor functions. Hit another time and you would lose complete function in your limbs and would be barely able to speak for several hours, the longest it would stay is about eight hours. It was a poison my father created and I used it for my second dagger, as I didn't like to kill people I just wanted them to see the error of their ways. So shallow cuts just to have the poison enter the bloodstream was an effective way of doing it.
A shiver ran through my body as I activated my Semblance teleporting to the nearest White Fang member, slicing at them in non-fatal spots, the poison working in seconds. I was starting to get low on my Aura, teleporting as much as I was doing so in this short period of time was a lot as normally you wouldn't be fighting this many things at a time, by yourself specially.
“VIOLET!” I heard Qrow shout from a short distance.
“Qrow!” I shouted rushing towards him, relief pouring over me as I saw he was okay.
Glynda was behind Qrow helping him take down the Grimm, Drones and White Fang alike. I was never as strong as Qrow, never meant for a long term fight as teleporting took a lot of energy out of me to do. Not saying I was a weak Huntress, it was just a different type of fighter.
“The Drones are hacked, he said they couldn't be – I trusted them.” I said as Qrow pulled me close to himself looking down at my face, his eyes wide with fear.
“What happened my love?” Qrow asked, voice shaking as Glynda was surrounding us, keeping us safe.
“Drones – I was herding people to keep them safe then they turned on us, I barely got out of the way in time, it hurts so much.” I answered.
“We got to get you to a doctor.” Qrow said, “can you move on your own?”
“Yes, I can, we have to save the civilians first to get to the girls.”
“You are seriously injured, Vi I have to protect you.” Qrow growled knowing my stubbornness knows no bounds sometimes.
“We have to get moving!” Glynda shouted, bringing us back to the harsh reality around us.
Qrow stays right beside me as we make our way forward clearing out all enemies in our path. Fighting off Creep Grimm and the Drones started to feel my Aura reaching too low but I had to keep pushing. She had to be behind this. . .Salem's desire to destroy the world was strong. She had to be behind the White Fang attacks and this I knew in the pit of my stomach the fear in my heart. I only knew the little which Ozpin told Qrow and myself and I could tell by how he said it and the look on his face this woman was something to be afraid of. Going around a corner we ran into General Ironwood, both pistols out as he expertly took down some of his Drones and Grimm.
“This area's secure! We need to-.” He ordered as we stopped in our tracks, accessing the area.
My vision was blurry as I was starting to feel weak as the adrenaline was starting to fade along with my Aura. Qrow was looking alert around us but his face turned to deadly glare focusing on James. Pressing the release button on his sword switching it to the scythe it shimmering in the dim light looking impressive.
In a quick movement Qrow was racing to James who looked at him shocked, standing in a defensive position flipping his gun around in a stand down move, “Qrow! This isn't my doing!”
Qrow leapt over James, the large scythe raised above his head swinging down at a large Griffon who was taking advantage of James' exposed back. The Griffon let out a screech as it was split in half and dissipated into dust as Qrow landed on the ground again, turning back to us.
“You idiot. I know you didn't do this.” Qrow scoffed moving back to me. “We have to get Vi to a doctor the Drones got her.”
Ironwood let out a sigh, pressing a large hand to his forehead as he let the relief wash over him. Looking over to me as Glynda was trying to assess the full damage to my face, holding me up. Ironwood looked terrified to see the extent of my injury, the seething rage at whoever hacked the Drones.
“Violet, are you okay?” Ironwood asked, moving closer fingers cupping under my chin tilting my head up looking at my wound.
“I'll survive James. . .we have to get these Grimm. . .”
“No, we are getting you out of here to safety.” James ordered.
“I agree with James, you have done enough my love, let's take care of the rest.”
“They are right,” Glynda agreed.
“Okay. . .” I agreed wearily as James knelt before me, helping me onto his back as I wrapped my legs around his waist and my arms around his neck loosely pressing my uninjured side of my face against his back.
“So what now, General?” Qrow asked.
“Someone's done the impossible and gained control of my machines. And that enormous Grimm seems to be fixated on the school. Glynda, form up the local Huntsmen and establish a safe zone here in Vale. We need to evacuate Beacon. Qrow, I'm leaving that to you and my men. I still need to get to my ship, I'll get Violet there she will be safe as I get things under control.”
A loud explosion came from behind us, we all turned to see the flagship, Ironwood's ship. I could feel his shoulders slump underneath me at the sight.
“Well, it won't be much of a walk.” Qrow said sarcastically, shrugging his shoulders.
Qrow squeezed my hand, giving it a light kiss, “I love you, be safe.”
“I love you too.” I said tired as Qrow and Glynda went to go to the tasks that James sent them off too.
“I'll keep her safe I promise.” James said as we moved towards the fallen airship.
“I'm holding you to it!” Qrow shouted back at him.
I knew that the flagship that I rode in with James had smaller crafts on it so they could be used to evacuate people in and it had all main controls on it as well. I started to lose consciousness going in and out of lucidity as he pried the doors open on the ship as the latch had jammed. With his metal right arm reaching up at the latch, he ripped it back, falling down roughly at our feet. Most of his upper body was on the right side as a cybernetic replacement from a grievous injury he faced when was younger, shortly after my incident with my child.
Making sure the ship was clear he got us to the bridge looking around and he found a place to sit me down for the moment. Looking at me he winced seeing some debris stuck to my face from when I rolled on the ground. I weakly wrapped my tail around my waist as it was more comfortable that way for me.
“I'm sorry this happened. I promised you the Drones would keep you safe. . .”
“It's not your fault James.”
Ironwood deployed all but one of the air crafts to the entrance pavilion to where Glynda was, setting up the evacuations. In a dazed state, I looked out the window at the clock tower of the academy. There was something going on up there, a giant wyvern Grimm was swarming around. I couldn't see what was going on. It was too far away even for my Faunus eye to clearly pick out the figures. There was fire from a person. . .then all I could see was an immense silver flash that engulfed the wyvern and the whole of the tower. The light was blinding both James and I had to shield our faces watching the glow freeze the giant wyvern in its spot.
“What was that?” I asked as I heard James rush to the window to get a better look.
“I don't know but whatever it was just froze that Grimm solid. . .” He said, terrified.
“That isn't a Maiden power. . .” I said softly, I had a sneaking suspicion but I was not positive of the cause of the silver flash.
“I can't make any long distance calls. . .The CCT Towers are down, we only have local communication up. This has to be Salem – working with the White Fang and that woman who stole the Amber's powers. We have to get back to Atlas---.”
“We need to make sure Fria is safe. . .we need to protect the Staff and the Lamp.” I said weakly, worried about the safety of the other Maiden.
“How did you know about Fria?” James asked astounded that I knew about the Winter Maiden thinking she had been a complete secret to him along with the Lamp at least.
“James I know about the relics, I know the Maidens.”
“Were you watching me?” He asked, getting defensive.
“No, Ozpin trusts you to protect them. I just am your backup if need be. Granted I don't know how well I'll do now with this injury,” I said softly, hand hovering over the wound on my face, heat still radiating off it. “Qrow is back up for the crown and the sword just keeping our ears out for people trying to find them.”
“I'll get you fixed up, I promise. Let's get to the last Manta and lead the evacuating ships to safety.”
James carried me piggy back again, the Manta could hold about ten people comfortably and twenty squished and weighed it down a little. The front of it had enough room for two people, James sat me in the co-pilot's seat as I closed my eyes, the adrenaline wearing out as my Aura frizzled a little the faint neon purple surrounding me. I felt James' hand brushing hair out of my face muttering something softly under his breath to me as I fell unconscious.
|| Chapter 1 || Chapter 2 ||
Birds of a Feather - Chapter 1 (RWBY FanFic)
A retelling from Season 3 to current season, with my OC Ambassador Violet Lee based off the Cheshire Cat. Trigger warnings for this chapter: none ||||| Content: OC is a Faunus, in a poly-relationship married to Qrow and dating James. OC is in later 30’s. I haven’t written anything to near completion in a long time, be nice.
Overlooking the expanse of the forest that surrounds the grounds of Beacon Academy from overhead gives the place a mystical appeal to it, like you would find a gingerbread house in the middle of it. Brushing off some dirt off my bare feet I looked over at the young woman sitting opposite of me. She is slender in full Atlas dress blues, her Special Ops insignia on her shoulder back straight gray blue eyes looking me up and down.
The aircraft we were in was part of a team flying to Beacon in Vale, for the Vytal Festival hosted there this season. The festival is held every two years in a different kingdom, last time was in Mistral this year was for Vale where I had gone to school quite a few years ago now. The aircraft was very militant in design and comfort; the seats barely had any cushion to it, several attendants stood at either door making sure no one went to the front to bother the captain or in the back to bother the soldiers.
“Traveling by foot isn't very dignified for an Ambassador of Atlas. . .” The woman spoke up, clearing her throat, breaking the silence.
“I was planting flowers along my way, that is all.” I said with a shrug, eyes flicking up to the front cabin door that opened revealing a tall broad shoulder man.
“Ambassador Lee, we can't have Atlesian Ambassadors walking. . .barefoot to Beacon, how would we look if we allowed that?” The tall man asked, a chuckle barely noticeable escaping his thin lips. His military outfit fit him snugly showing the well built frame the twin pistols at his side glistening in the early afternoon light.
“General Ironwood. . .you know I do not like to abuse your gratitude towards me, your favoritism to me is way too generous.”
“Tea?” General Ironwood asked, signaling to a drink cart.
“Yes please, I would enjoy a nice cup.” I answered, smiling at him, brushing a few strands of light purple hair out of my eyes.
The attendant that was standing at the cart was confused as Ironwood picked up a tea cup and started to prepare a cup of tea. Their eyes flickered to the woman then to me in their confusion why the General was prepping tea instead of ordering them to do so. Ironwood warmed the cup, dumping out the water while browsing through the offerings of tea, selecting a white tea he placed the sachet in the cup slowly pouring water on it. Adding a sugar cube and gently stirring it in the cup he brought over the cup with a few strawberry flavored wafers to go along with it.
“Just as you like it, Vi.” He said softly, our fingers brushing against each other as I took the cup from him.
“Thank you James, I appreciate it.” I said locking eyes with him, giving him a smile. “I'm assuming your guard dog is a Schnee.”
“Yes, Winter Schnee is my head of Special Ops. Winter Schnee, this is Ambassador Violet Lee, she is the one who started the Human/Faunus Relations program.”
“I just gave birth to the idea, others funded it and General Ironwood was so courteous to allow it to be placed in Atlas.” I said modestly, there was more to it than that but I didn't feel like going into the vast details.
“I'm aware of Ambassador Lee's feats with the Faunus, she has done a lot from what I've heard.” Winter replied, signaling to the attendant for an refreshment for herself.
“Is your visit to the Vytal Festival work or pleasure?” Ironwood asked, taking the seat next to me, angling to keep his attention on me leaning back in the chair, long legs stretched out before him.
“Both as usual. I'm doing an assessment of the Festival making sure it's compliant to Faunus treatment regulations of the vendor workers and to watch my nieces.”
“I have a few meetings myself but care to join me in my private box to watch some of the events?” Ironwood asked.
“Of course I will join you.”
“Prepare for landing sequences.” A voice said from the speaker above our heads.
Down on the ground at a bar just outside the festivities, a place that is normally fairly busy but with the Vytal Festival going it had only one patron going steady on drinks. The TV above the bar was broadcasting what was going on in the stadium, the sole patron was absentmindedly watching the screen while sipping the hard liquor. The bar itself was a traditional looking bar, booth seating, open dining seating heavily curtained windows with dim lighting surrounding the main bar area. This was a cleaner bar than most that patrons normally goes to but not by much, his long lanky frame was hunched over the shot glass, the large sword resting on his back glinting slightly in the dim light.
“Now that was a match!” The bartender exclaimed as Team RWBY won the match, as the results scrolled across the bottom of the screen.
“Heh, that was a mess.” The patron said with a slight slur the booze was already working its magic on him.
“Come on man, you didn't like them, the Vale kids, or any of the rounds before that? What fight are you here for?” The bartender asked in an exacerbated tone, this man had to be crazy to have not thought these fights had been amazing.
The patron scoffed, as he heard a loud whirring overhead turning to his left to the only exposed window, the one next to the door a large fleet of airships came into view. Large silver ships with elegant ribbons flowing behind them as they made their way towards the school just past the stadium.
“That one.” He answered, finishing his shot, pulling out a few Lien to pay off his tab.
Getting to his feet with a slight wobble, a casual hand waving back, “happy Vytal Festival.”
As he closed the door he heard the shatter of a glass and a soft exclamation of “oh no” from the bartender as he looked towards the horizon for the ships.
As the airship landed I stood up unwrapping my long tail from my waist I adjusted my skirt a little looking up to General Ironwood. The attendants were moving around taking things back to their proper spot, alerting the back hatch for the soldiers to leave and opening the exit door for us. Winter stood at the door as the first soldier exited her eyes were on Ironwood and myself for the whole time wary of me. I gave her a brief smile attempting to put her at ease.
“Would you like me to escort you to the fairgrounds before my meeting?” James offered as we walked down the steps out of the airship.
“Yes you may.”
Winter followed behind us a good ten paces as the soldiers and attendants filled to their assigned locations to watch over. The grounds looked amazing. The rustic appearance of the Beacon has always made me feel warm and happy. There were many festive balloons and signs welcoming people to the vendor strip and food stalls. There were demonstrations about weapons, dust, armor, accessories and tech from all over Remnant. Ironwood offered an arm for me, I snaked my left arm in with his as he guided me down the path towards the entrance.
My outfit was not my normal Ambassador outfit but my Huntress outfit with my Ambassador Insignia over my heart. I wore a black skort with dark purple shorts underneath, a black tank top with my crest on my back, and a playing card with the letter 10/6 on it. I had a pair of worn arm and shin braces on me, normally I would have a dusty pair of leather boots on but lately I've been prone to going barefoot.
The food stalls were cooking fresh food constantly to meet the demands, it was such a lovely smell, I could smell fried chicken, baked breads, sweet fruits making me remember the tea was the only food I had today. There was many vendors with their wares around us as Ironwood surveyed the area, looking for threats as I was looking for things to buy.
“This is as far as I can go, my dear. I must make my meetings.”
“Thank you James. I will text you later, okay?” I said looking up at him giving him a smile.
I had known James Ironwood for a long time, we had dated when we had been younger but now we were just friends. I am married to someone else now. I knew he still had deep feelings for me still. He gave my arm a gentle squeeze, “please take care of yourself, don't get into trouble.”
“I never get in trouble, it just follows me.” I laughed as I gripped his left hand, squeezing it.
I turned, giving Ironwood a smile and a wave as I headed towards the bar, making it down a side path of the vendors. There were only five vendors and two food stalls that were registered with Faunus, it took a moment for me to find all the locations on the pamphlet map I had. In my position at the Consulate I had a lot of free range on what I wanted to do mainly because I was the only member that was also a Huntress and had James Ironwood's favor. I still of course had to work with my other ambassadors as there were six others who worked in unison on big projects for all of Remnant and we all had small projects we worked on without interjections from others. It was true I had the idea for it, to work with Menagerie and any other Faunus Colonies and individuals to help get more fair treatment. It wasn't something I had wanted to do when I was younger but after a big event in my life that changed how I saw life I wanted to do something more for my fellow Faunus.
I spoke with each Faunus at the vendors asking them a series of polling questions making sure they were being treated fairly and paid well for their time. Vale was one of the higher ranked places for Faunus to live and work in, though there were still a lot of improvements to be made. The weather was warm out, it was starting to move into summer that is for sure as the afternoon heat was making me sleepy.
“A nap would be lovely. . .” I mused but it was too noisy for a good nap, a few good napping spots but too noisy.
“Gah! Well if you were hungry, why didn't you say so?” A loud familiar voice shout out as I was walking away from the last vendor.
“Come on! I know just the place.” Another familiar, huskier voice called out.
“Ruby – Yang?” I called out as I moved past some Atlesian Knights to see a group of children.
There were four girls, two I recognized as my nieces and two others that must had been their teammates. A girl with long black hair with a bow on top, a black and white outfit, a slender look of her and the other girl clearly was a Schnee by her long silver white hair in a ponytail with a blue silver outfit. I had made it a point to know the Atlesian family of importance as an Ambassador based in Atlas. It was wise.
“Aunt Violet!” Both Ruby and Yang called out rushing towards me pulling me into a hug, nearly crushing the wind out of my lungs.
“Hey girls, I'm so glad to see you. I heard you won your match, I won't miss the next match. I was a little late getting here.”
The young Schnee pulled out her scroll glaring at the readout, ignoring it and shoving it back into her pocket as they came closer to us.
“So these are your teammates, I assume.” I asked, looking at the two other women, giving me a nervous smile.
“Yes, we have Weiss Schnee and Blake Belladonna.” Yang explained pointing at each one.
“Any relation to Ghira Belladonna?” I asked Blake, “I'm an Ambassador for Human and Faunus relations in Atlas. I recently visited Menagerie on opening some trade routes.”
“Ah – yes he's my father.” She said almost nervously.
I understood her hesitation, as a Faunus myself I knew sometimes it wasn't safe to broadcast your Faunus self.
“No need to worry I will not call you out on anything, I understand the need for anonymity sometimes.” I said in a hushed voice.
“Oh I know exactly the place.” Yang said looking over to her right at a stall that advertised fresh noodles. “Care to join us Aunt Vi?”
“Sure, I am free for the rest of the day.”
“Hey! Might be hard to eat without this.” A voice called out, turning I saw a dark skinned woman with light green hair holding a bright red wallet.
“No, no, no, no!” Ruby shouted frantically looking for her wallet, patting all over her body for it.
“Good to see you, Ruby.” The green hair youth said, chuckling, handing it towards Ruby.
“Oh! Thanks, Emerald! Oh. Guess I dropped it. Girl pockets are the worst!” Ruby said defeated, slouching a little at the shallow pockets of her tactical-skirt.
“What's up, Em?” Yang asked, giving her a casual wave.
“Just left the stadium after your amazing fight! You guys were awesome!” Emerald said excitedly, a bright smile on her face.
“Oh, shut your stupid little face...” Ruby said blushing, looking away having a hard time accepting the compliment.
“I heard your team progressed to the next round too.” Blake commented, speaking over Ruby.
“You know, I feel that we haven't seen your other teammates.” Weiss commented looking around for the three others in the team, they only saw them all together when they first arrived.
“How'd they do in the fight?” Yang questioned.
Emerald tilted her head a little in thought, contemplating the match her team had previously. I moved to Ruby, my eye wandering to the only other person with her, a tall lanky male with dark hair. Something was familiar about him but I couldn't place it.
“Really well.” Emerald finally answered with a smug look on her face.
“That's great. Uh. Why don't we all go and get a victory food together?” Ruby asked, looking up at me then back to Emerald.
“More the merrier,” I added.
“Oh, gosh, that's so nice of you, but my teammates are all kind of...” She turns to her partner, giving him a semi-disgusted look. “...introverted. Really socially awkward”
The male was looking at a nearby vendor that was selling boots and other leather goods, inspecting the boot reeling back with a confused look at the bad smell. Placing the boot back down looking towards Emerald confused by her look.
“Ooh, yeah, I could see that.” Yang said with a chuckle.
“Oh yeah, looks like Merc and I are going to move on to the doubles round. What about you guys?” Emerald asked switching subjects, a curious tone in her voice.
“Well, as the leader of this team, I thought long and hard about this decision.” Ruby said proud of herself, hands on hips.
“We put it to a vote.” Weiss said matter of factly, leaning into Ruby.
“Yes, so, but I decided that we should put it to a vote.” Ruby pouted.
“We voted for Weiss and Yang.” Blake answered.
“I will happily represent Team RWBY.” Weiss answer, giving a small curtsy as she did.
“Yeah, we're going to kick some butt!” Yang said excited, pounding her fist together, ready for the next battle.
“Well, if Mercury and I see you down the line, don't think we'll go easy on ya.” Emerald said with a confident laugh.
“Wouldn't have it any other way.” Yang responded, sounding so much like her mother to me.
“Alright, well we're going to catch some more fights.” Emerald said, turning away and heading towards her partner.
“Have fun!” Ruby said happily as Yang led us to the noodle shop.
“See you later!” Emerald said her back to us now heading towards the stadium.
“I'll have a bowl of the regular, please.” Yang ordered, as she sat down looking at the elderly shopkeeper, a happy smile on her face.
I sat myself down in between my nieces, as the others sat down at the other free spots. There was no menu so to speak of, there were noodles three ways with a garlic sauce, fish and plain. Curling my tail around my waist as I placed my Scroll on the table looking for some text messages but still none, which I felt was a bit strange. I was waiting for an important one.
“Ooh. . . I'll take the same.” Ruby said her eyes were large upon looking at Yang's bowl placed in front of her.
“Anything spicy?” I asked, I enjoyed spicy foods and loved to try local cuisine.
The shopkeeper gave me a slow blink and slid a bowl of the garlic noodles towards me quickly. I shrugged amicably, grabbing a pair of chopsticks digging into the large bowl. I hadn't eaten yet today, got sidetracked with some other projects and forgot. The garlic was strong with a hint of honey. They smelled like it was freshly made.
“Do you have anything with a low-salt. . .?” Weiss asked with a bit of a concern with the huge portions, the same size bowl of noodles was slammed down to her. “Um. . . okay. . .”
Instead of saying anything, Blake just gives the shopkeeper a nod and smile who smiles back and rushes to the back door of the stall. In a moment he has a large bowl of noodles with fish on top of the noodles, head and all. Blake looks excitedly at the noodles, drooling a little at the massive mound of food. Weiss gives her a strange look, as she digs out her family credit card to hand over to the shopkeeper. The silver card glimmered in the light as the shopkeeper took it from her to ring up the meals.
“Aw, Weiss! What's the occasion!?” Yang called out with a mouthful of noodles.
“Consider it thanks for sending me to the doubles round.” Weiss said a pleased look on her face that was immediately ruined as the credit card was tossed back at her and an annoyed look on the shopkeeper's face, the register flashing, declined. “What?! How can my card be declined? I was barely into my monthly allowance!”
Blake looks a bit panicked as the shopkeeper glares at Weiss, as if to take the food back, I let out a soft sigh as I reach for my over the shoulder purse, pulling out a card.
“I will cover it, don't worry.” I said handing over my Consulate card that had the Atlesian crest on it.
As the shopkeeper rang up the purchase, a group came up to us, two males and two females. I recognized one of the females as Pyrrha Nikos who was the current spokesperson for Pumpkin Pete's cereal and a winner of several tournaments that happened in Argus that made her rather famous. I had attended a gala that she was at recently that was trying to open up the trade routes further in from Atlas to Argus. The others I didn't recognize were a shorter girl with pink hair, a large hammer at her side, a tall slender built male with long black hair, a calm serene look about him along with a stocky built blond male who looked very friendly.
“Mind if we join you?” The blond male asked, his voice friendly and reassuring.
“Hi, Jaune, of course you guys can!” Ruby said, pointing at the other four free spots.
“This is our Aunt Violet, she's married to our Uncle Qrow, she's a huntress and. . .” Ruby started to explain.
“And Ambassador to Atlas.” Pyrrha finished recognizing me. “Hello Ambassador Lee.”
“Oh Auntie you're famous.” Ruby laughed. “I guess you know Pyrrha, but there is also Jaune Arc, Lie Ren and Nora Valkyrie. They make up Team JNPR.”
“Nice to meet you all, yes I'm an Ambassador for Human and Faunus relations in all of Remnant.”
We chatted casually for a bit as we ate, soon everyone was full to the brim either feeling a bit nauseous or heaving a happy sigh.
“Are you sure it's wise to have eaten before a fight?” Ren asked, looking over at Pyrrha.
“Of course! It will give us energy!” Pyrrha said excitedly as the shopkeeper cleared all of our bowls in a single sweeping motion, cleaning them quickly as he dished them out.
“I barf, I'm blaming you.” Jaune moaned, leaning against the table, resting his head down looking a bit green at the cheeks, as Nora burped loudly.
“Ooh!” Nora said with an evil grin on her face. “Aim at the enemy!”
“Nora, that's disgusting. But if you feel the urge. . .” Ren admonished Nora, but shrugged his shoulders.
“Got it.” Jaune said weakly with a thumbs up.
“Well, we should be off.” Pyrrha said, getting up from her seat, looking at her teammates with a motherly-like smile.
“So, you think you guys are ready?” Ruby questioned her friends.
“Of course! We've got a world-renowned fighter on our team, one's basically ninja, I can bench five of me, Jaune, we trained all year, our weapons are awesome, Glynda barely yells at us anymore, and uh... Jaune!” Nora said excitedly gesturing to her teammates.
“Are you gonna take that?” Ren asked, prodding him a little.
“She's not wrong.” Jaune replied in a slight dejected tone.
“I'm kidding, he knows I'm kidding.” Nora started. “Don't be so nervous! The worst that can happen is we lose, that is just a few more years of walking around school with everyone knowing we're failures, our friends will slowly abandon us to preserve their social status, we won't be able to show our faces in class, no one will sit with us in the cafeteria, Ren and I have no parents, we have no home left to go to, we'll be officially renamed Team Lose-iper!” Nora finished with maniacal laughter as she started to spiral down.
“So, yeah, we're feeling pretty good.” Ren surmised confidently.
“Don't fret. If anything, we should be looking forward to a fight with actual guidelines, and not, well. . .murderers.” Pyrrha said with a slightly nervous tone to her voice trying to quell that nervousness.
“Yeah, don't sweat it, we've all faced way worse before.” Yang said confidently trying to boost their morals.
“Let's see. Grimm invasions, violent extremists, a destructive sociopath...” Blake said counting off the incidents on her fingers.
“Um, please remind me to ask about those stories later. . .” I directed that question to Ruby and Yang.
“And that's all while were still in training! Oh, imagine what it would be like to graduate!” Ruby added.
“Maybe then I'll be able to pay for a meal.” Weiss said a little rejected still over the declined card.
“Would Team JNPR please report to the battlegrounds immediately!” A voice over the loudspeaker called out.
“Yes! Like they were scheduled to, several minutes ago!” Another voice joined in after the first one finished.
“Well, it looks like this is it.” Pyrrha said, ushering the other teammates away.
“Go get 'em!” Ruby shouted, cheering them on.
“Good luck.” I said as they left. “Well kiddos I must leave. I have to find my husband and want to watch a few matches myself.”
I leaned over giving Ruby and Yang both hugs as I got up pulling out my scroll checking for messages again. Shaking my head I opened the text messaging app, tapping up a quick message , 'did you make it to the Vytal Festival? I've already seen Ruby and Yang already. I'm going to be watching a few matches.'
At the entrance of the stadium I handed the usher my ticket. They wrapped a bracelet on my hand allowing me entrance. The stadium was the Amity Tower stadium, state of the art technology and a massive amount of seating available. I have seen the stadium before. It was a neat feat of tech, the battlegrounds were digital that could change to simulate a wide variety of terrain. It was all randomized for each battle, so it could be sometimes favorable for both teams or just one or none at all. Weather was also included and hazards there was a similar stadium in Atlas at the academy used for training. Finding a free seat I sat down, checking my scroll again I could tell he had read my message and the pop up bubble of a message being typed.
'I'm here too, sorry I got distracted by your ride. Have a few things to report to Ozpin, have you reported to him yet? I could wait for you?'
'No I haven't yet, going to meet up later. I wanted to watch a few matches first.'
I along with my husband Qrow did work for the Headmaster of Beacon Academy. It was a secret to most people of Remnant. I had very little to report to him, another reason why I wanted to wait a little. It wasn't like I was going to be punished, it was just that I felt like I needed to give more. But my current task from him was rather stale at the moment. I watched Team JNPR win their battle, they were a bit sloppy in their communication with each other but they had potential. I could see it. As they filled out of the grounds and the system refreshed itself to start new for the next set of teams getting ready to go out on the field. The screens above were showing a commercial right now, there were some robots on the field clearing out any debris.
I started to look around at the people in the stadium. There were a lot of civilians, young and old. There was also a decent number of hunters and huntresses that were in the area that attended. Most hunters visit for a match or two and watch the rest on their scrolls as most are busy dealing with Grimm. I haven't seen a full Vytal Festival since the one I had attended many years ago, I generally get to watch a few matches and head back on the road. A figure stuck out to me, stopping staring at them. Their outfit was out of place there mannerisms more so. They weren't acting like other viewers, hunter or civilian, they were a Faunus with small antlers, I couldn't shake that there was something different out of place about them. A person walking past them to head to the bathrooms bumped them a little, making them shake their head in annoyance exposing the back of their neck with a small tattoo showing. Had I not had my Faunus eyesight I probably wouldn't have spotted the tattoo as it was small but the symbol I recognized clearly, the White Fang.
“Scouts. . .” I whispered under my breath, slowly getting to my feet so as to not alert anyone.
Why would White Fang Scouts be here if not for something malicious? Sure the White Fang that resided in Menagerie was your typical protest group, they had a sound reason for what they did and did well at being rebellious and prove a point. Hence why my people at the Consulate have been working on small projects with them to help better their image and lessen the violent protests. There was a branch of the White Fang that wasn't working with the Consulate, or with the main branch at all was a rebel group. Adam Taurus was the leader of the branch and has caused a lot of bad name for the White Fang outside of Menagerie as of late. I have learned from the current leader of the White Fang, Sienna Khan about the scouts and how they tend to show up before attacks. They find all the weak points, exits and news to report back to the group before the attack.
I need to alert Ozpin about this now, moving swiftly out of the stadium I made it to Beacon Academy up the hill. I didn't bother to call on my scroll. I didn't want anyone in the crowd to over hear me and start any panic. With this many people anything that sparked fear would ensue a Grimm attack and we didn't need that. Once I got past the other vendor hallway to the path that led to the school, I picked up my pace and remembered my way to Ozpin's office easily. I spent quite a bit of time there during my years of school at Beacon.
Winding my way up the steps to his office, did the White Fang want to ambush the stadium to incite a riot? Qrow had told me that they had been doing more attacks in Vale as if to concentrate attacks there more than their typical scattered way of attacks. My tail swishing behind me as I made it up the steps to the hallway that led to his office at the end, I shook my head trying to rid the thoughts of the consequences of an attack here at the school with so many people so many Grimm would be here. A few steps before the door to Ozpin's office I heard a jumble of voices loud and upset.
“But sir!” A female spoke loudly and defiantly.
“Winter. Leave.” Came General James Ironwood's voice, deep and booming.
“Yes sir.” I heard Winter say stiffly the door opening her eyes going wide to see me about to get to the door.
“Ambassador Lee, this might not be the best time. . .” She said, looking back at Ironwood and the others.
“Ambassador Lee, please come in.” Ozpin said, ushering me inside.
“Go on.” Ironwood gestured to Qrow.
“Your little infiltrator isn't just another pawn. They're the one responsible for Autumn's condition.” Qrow said, taking a sip from his flask as I went to stand beside him, my tail wrapping around his waist gently.
“What?” Glynda Goodwitch asked, shocked in her voice.
“Despite what the world thinks, we're not just teachers, or Generals, or Headmasters. The people in this room, the leaders of the other two academies we're the ones that keep the world safe from the evils no one even knows about.” Qrow said forcefully pulling away from me getting into Ironwood's face. “It's why we meet behind closed doors, why we work in the shadows. So you tell me, James, when you brought your army to Vale, did you think you were being discreet, or did you just not give a damn!”
“Discreet wasn't working. I'm here because this is what was necessary.” James said firmly placing his scroll on Ozpin's desk, a projection of the fleet he brought with showing.
“You're here because Ozpin wanted you here! He made you a part of this inner circle and opened your eyes to the real fight that's in front of us!” Qrow responded angrily.
“And I am grateful.” Ironwood responded diplomatically.
“Oh, well, you've got a real funny way of showing it.” Qrow scoffed.
“May I interject. . .?” I pipped up trying to find a spot to speak about the scouts.
“The people of Vale needed someone to protect them; someone who would act. When they look to the sky and see my fleet, they feel safe, and our enemies will feel our strength.” Ironwood spoke over me, angered by Qrow's comment.
“You. . .You think they're scared of your little ships? I've been out there and I've seen the things she's made, and let me tell you – they are fear.” Qrow said threateningly.
“And fear will bring the Grimm. A guardian is a symbol of comfort. But an army is a symbol of conflict. There's an energy in the air now, a question in the back of everyone's minds. . .” Ozpin said, gesturing to the holographic display. "If this is the size of our defenses, then what is it we're expecting to fight?"
“So then, what would you suggest we do?” James asked, as he picked up his scroll not noticing the slight glitch in the display, a momentary picture of a chess piece showing up and disappearing.
“I suggest we find our guardian. What is it that you have to say, Ambassador Lee?” Ozpin asked, looking up at me peering at me over the rims of his glasses holding a cup of tea.
“White Fang Scouts are here, Qrow is right about the broken faction of White Fang and their increased robberies lately.”
“Violet, how do you know this? Have you been working with Ozpin too?” Ironwood asked, staring down at me a bit bewildered as I kept what I did with Ozpin a complete secret.
“It doesn't matter how long I've worked with Ozpin. On my recent trip to Menagerie I spoke with the head of the White Fang – the good part, I learned how they identified the Scouts. I know they didn't come to just innocently watch the festivities, we need to take action.” I said turning from James to Ozpin.
“What do these Scouts look like?” Qrow asked, grabbing my hand holding it tightly as to reassure me that things will be okay.
“They generally have tattoos on the back of their neck. It's a faint tattoo but it's a three claws most human eyes can't catch it easily. Like my back stripe tattoo.”
“Well good thing I don't always have human eyes.” Qrow said, leaning into my eyes steady on James as he placed a kiss on my temple. “I'll search for more. I'll be back shortly.”
“I'll get the drones to search for them as well.” James said, pulling out his Scroll and sending a message to the drones.
“Ozpin, sir the White Fang will attack soon, most likely tomorrow from what I have learned about the faction. Their work lately is abnormal for their normal routine. I feel the group they are working with is working with Her.” I voiced my opinion to Ozpin.
“I understand your view Violet, I appreciate the information but I think what we are doing now will be the best course of action. I'll be making a choice for a new maiden here soon. I suggest in the meantime keep a vigilant eye out for scouts and make sure not to cause a scene with any if possible. We do not want any Grimm crashing the festivities.” Ozpin advised me.
“Violet, my guards and Qrow have everything under control. How about you join me for dinner as the last of today's events have finished. In the morning you can do a round with me and join me in my private box.” James offered holding out a hand for me, a soft smile on his face.
“I must decline, James. I appreciate the offer, I truly do but I have a few interrogations of my nieces I must make. Their extra curricular activities make me worry.” I politely answer by putting him down gently, giving him a smile. “But I will join you tomorrow in your private box, please make sure to have some ice tea there. For me it's supposed to be a warm day.”
“I will make sure there is a variety to choose from for you my dear.” James said with a smile, placing a hand on the small of my back as he led me out of the room.
After spending an hour with Ruby, listening to the events she dealt with the last few months dealing with the White Fang and this man called Roman Torchwick it was very clear Qrow was onto something with them. I've heard of the name Torchwick before he was a rather low level smug con artist. What was he doing jumping up to big time stuff? Ruby and I sat on the steps of the school watching the sun set each with a mug of tea for myself and a mug of hot chocolate for her listening to the murmur of people enjoying the band playing in the fairgrounds as they closed up for the night. She had grown a lot since I last saw her only months before she had started school. There was a lot of her that was like her mother which made me miss Summer. She was a good friend of mine before she passed.
“So I've told you what I've been up to Auntie, what about you? Still love my Uncle Qrow?”
“Yes I still love him very much.” I laughed, looking at the simple wedding band on my finger, we didn't do anything fancy. “I have been focusing more on my Ambassadorship than anything. Of course I still hunt Grimm as I go from place to place working with the Faunus. I fought this Giant Ursa recently it was terrorizing this small farm, I don't think I've seen one that big before but I defeated it.”
“Of course! Beat it with girl power.” Ruby said with a smile.
“And a little bit of steel.” I said with a smirk.
“Ah look, here are two of my favorite ladies in all of Anima.” Qrow said, appearing out of the shadows sauntering over to us.
“Hey husband.” I said getting to my feet, Qrow pulled me into a hug nuzzling his nose into the crook of my neck taking in a deep breath, I wrapped my arms around him holding him tight.
“Everything is okay, I spotted the Scouts there were six and the drones took them away sneakily.” He whispered in my ear.
“That's good.” I said leaning back, planting a kiss on his lips, ignoring the disgusted groan from Ruby.
“You'll find someone you want to kiss each time you see them one day.” Qrow teased Ruby, ruffling up her hair as he helped her to her feet.
“Staying out of trouble Uncle Qrow?”
“Reasonably. It's getting late for you, pipsqueak head to bed.” Qrow admonished fatherly looking at the clock on the tower as it was nine at night.
“But I'm not tired. . .” Ruby whined.
“I'll bring a good breakfast to the dorms if you go to sleep.” I offered her a smile.
“Oh I request waffles, with extra syrup, coffee and bacon!” Ruby demanded taking the empty cups and heading up the steps. “Good night!”
“How do you plan to make that in a crummy hotel room we are staying in?” Qrow asked as he wrapped an arm around my waist.
“Let me work my magic, it will happen. Let's go to bed ourselves.”
It was Qrow's turn to pick a place for us to meet up and stay, with our jobs we don't get to see each other often as stuff he does for Ozpin and what I do for Ozpin also keep us in different directions. My Ambassador work keeps me on the move as well, so we made plans to visit each other as often as possible. We try to meet up each month for a few days. We've been married for a while now and still deeply in love despite what hardships we've come across so far. Qrow's Semblance made things hard for us to be together sometimes and some of the strife it has caused us made it tenuous but we still managed to be with each other. We had our own home in Patch not far from Tai Yang's spot that we visit sometimes when we want to take long breaks that we had other plans for at one point in life. On a normal day we would call and text each other making sure to keep contact so we never really felt like we had been gone from each other for long.
In the hotel room we both checked the room for weak spots, making sure the windows were locked and covered. It was common for Hunters to check over a room they rented because it was a dangerous life and bandits carried grudges often and even safe as Vale it was important to check. Especially with the Scouts being caught. Plopping on the bed after removing my armor and daggers, placing my bag on the nightstand I looked up at Qrow. He looked tired, a little tipsy but still very handsome, pulling off his jacket, his soft red eyes looking down at me and he smiled.
“I missed you my love.” He said in a soft alluring voice, flopping onto the bed beside me resting his head on my lap kicking off his boots.
“I missed you too.” I said warmly gently, poking the tip of his nose.
Slowly started stroking his thick black hair, there were some soft graying streaks starting at the temples that made him more distinguished and handsome. His hair was soft like crow downy feathers, he murmured happily enjoying the feeling of me stroking his hair. Our eyes locked as he stared into my light purple eyes, he reached a hand up cupping the side of my face just enjoying the simple touch of each other.
It felt like it had been a year since we saw each other last but it hadn't, sometimes it was too hard being away from each other and unable to actually work together due to our responsibilities and his Semblance. His Semblance was Misfortune causing bad luck to follow him, he could control it to a certain degree and influence it some but it was hard for him to do so. That is why sometimes it was easier for him to be drunk; it help dull the Semblance and not be too powerful. It caused a lot of issues for us when we were younger because we wanted to be together despite what his Semblance could do to us as the longer you are around him the more things happen and the bigger they are. But we grew up and learned that we could have a meaningful relationship and not always be together, it still made hard bouts of depression around for us from time to time. Sometimes it made it feel unreal like we were kidding ourselves but we did what we could do to stick together. Qrow did not like talking about his Semblance and didn't want anyone who didn't need to know about it to know, so I always respected it as a lot of people questioned our marriage. I often squash their antiquated views as we are just fine.
I moved my hands down to start and massage his temples and neck, Qrow let out a heavy sigh and a please look on his face. Resting a hand on his stomach with the other hand reaching out for my tail, Qrow gently stroked my tail which felt so relaxing after the stressful month. I normally didn't like my tail played with but Qrow gently stroking my tail could stop me from a tirade and bring me to a calm demeanor in moments. We were both so blissful from these simple acts of love to each other, enjoying the silence between us. A moment with no Grimm, no hundred of miles between us, no work just the two of us enjoying being in each other's presence.
There was a soft snore as Qrow breathing started to slow down as he fell asleep with his head in my lap, his hand just gently holding my tail. I smiled down at him, I never held it against him for any drinking, I didn't love that he had to drink to manage his Semblance but it was too much to control and do what he did as he said. I wished he could do without the drinking but I never pushed it. I pulled off the spare blanket placing it over the top of him tucking him in, reaching up I grabbed a pillow placing it under his head. I curled up beside him pulling the other blanket around me as I rested my head on the side of his chest for a comfortable spot to sleep.
By morning somehow we were both under the blankets curled up with each other, most likely Qrow woke up in the middle of the night and rearranged us to a better spot. He was still asleep, I think he only slept deeply when we were together as I know he normally wakes up early but when we are together he tends to sleep late. It didn't bother me, it made me glad I was able to let him get such a deep and restful sleep, I did my best to sneak out of the bed without waking him
Mount Pine RPG Violet Lee aesthetic
Fate is our enemy, but time is the danger.
Dinner With a Vampire ~Gibbs, Abigail
Aw yeah. Seriously such a good read. Was really shocked by it. It's a lot more intricate than I expected. 10/10 would read again
Even if that were so, how could I be happy as a vampire? There is no chance of me actually liking the idea of living forever. It’s hopeless!’ Kasper faced straight ahead, glancing in his side mirror.He spoke softly, something like caring in his voice.‘You don’t know that, Girly! One day you might just find something worth living an eternity for.
Abigail Gibbs, Dinner with a Vampire (The Dark Heroine, #
VIOLET AND I GET TO GET TOGETHER NEXT WEEK GUYS IT'S HAPPENING THE GIRLFRIENDS ARE HAPPENING