A/N: Hey everyone I am back once again with another update to this story! I have been busy with work as well as playing some Final Fantasy XIV Online. Anyways, I just what to say that I am still here with more updates so don't you worry you giys and thank you for your support to this. Now, let us begin the chaper for this story!

NOTE: IF YOU HAVE NOT READ REMNANT OF DESIRES, READ IT BEFORE YOU START READING THIS STORY.

NOTE 2: RATING MAY CHANGE TO 'M' IN THE FUTURE

Henshin!

Third Person View

'Thought'

Greeed/Yummies

Salem gazed at the large expanse of dark land she held domain over. Days ago, Tyrian had returned with a missing stinger after failing to capture the girl with the silver eyes and OOO. She was disappointed in him but what infuriated her more was the thing that still haunted the world.

OOO.

The boy discovering the O-Calibur was something she had not seen coming. To wield another of the former Multi-King's relics, she felt frustrated to learn his items of power still remain hidden from society. His selfishness of his treasured items stay hidden from all who knew its history. She sent her Grimm high and low across the world to find the bastard king's remaining two relics but much like the Four Relics, they are hidden from the world until the current Multi-King recovers them.

She had been alive for thousands of years, when humanity once wielded magic that was granted to them by the Gods. After her time had passed, it did not appear that magic would emerge in humanity again. However, the Multi-King had somehow found lost text which told of the last age of humanity and how they once wielded magic. Desiring magic of his own, he sought to rediscover it somehow. His desire led to the creation of the Core Medals and the Greeed homunculus that were born from them via alchemy. The said creatures with a blank slate but learn like Grimm, at a quicker pace.

Salem had watched the King, deciding him to be a fool who would destroy himself. She had been right, but the power he held could've been a threat to her plans. With the power of the Core Medals, he began to conquer Remnant. He could call upon tidal waves, cause earthquakes, summon lightning, create an army of clones, wield the power of the elements themselves, and destroy armies all on his own. Nothing could've stopped him, nothing natural at least. She had initially considered asking him to join her cause with her followers at the time, but his own desires would not allow him to serve another, not even her. She learned that he wanted to become a god himself. In the end, his greed had become his undoing, and his kingdom fell like so many before. She thought everything about OOO was over.

Until now: the birth of the new OOO.

The boy who was a complete unknown to her. She knew the true history of Remnant and his name does not fit with the culture; a name that was not a representation of a color. Even in her time, such names were not like that.

Her eyes glanced at Cinder who remained seated, waiting for her upcoming task to be given. She remembered the condition Cinder was in aside from the ordeal by the girl with the Silver Eyes. The weapon OOO used cut through Cinder's Aura and delivered a reminder. That showed he was a dangerous variant.

"Cinder, tell me about the boy." Salem asked calmly.

Salem's tone held a hint of demand, the maiden unable to deny her request. "What I know, he isn't from Remnant." A long pause drew over. Salem slowly glanced at Cinder, her crimson eyes narrowed. "Gara was the reason… from what Emerald told me… He is from Earth."

"Earth…?" The name rolled off the tongue.

"Yes." Cinder began to explain what Emerald overheard during their stay on Beacon. Not leaving out a single detail for her Queen throughout the explanation.

The immortal took in every piece of information her Maiden explained. It was almost nonsense but the details telling of moments of its history gave supposed evidence of proof.

A world without Grimm; a world without the gods having to erase humanity as before. Having to grow and change by themselves without the gods to guide them for centuries. No magic, no Semblances, no Grimm, no Aura. Just normal humans. The world itself was involved in many wars for various reasons. The late Gara being responsible for the boy's presence here on Remnant. She repeated the name of the world Cinder said.

"Earth…" The name of the world was odd but unique.

For once, she didn't expect to hear the revelation. And it was due to the use of alchemy done by Gara. All because the boy was to become a vessel for the Purple Core Medals that erase any form of desires. While the late alchemist's plan was foiled, it didn't change the fact the boy had three Core Medals that can make him temporarily invincible.

Cinder's scar was evidence of how strong the purple Core Medals are. Her Maiden was unable to stop the Invincible Wrath of OOO.

The boy will either be in her clutches or he will perish.

Remnants of Desires: After the Fall

Chapter 7: New Task, Emissaries, Warning,

I was currently practicing my swing of the new sword, the said blade clashing against Pyrrha's shield. While she could use her Semblance, it would waste her energy but her skills as the Invincible Girl makes up for it.

I jumped over the javelin the moment she attempted to sweep me off my feet. Using the O-Calibur held in my right hand, I brought the blade up but her shield stopped it at the last second. Gliding left, I dug my heels into the dirt and used the other blade to stop her javelin.

The redhead shoved me back and threw the shield towards me. I ducked before dashing towards her. Her hand glowed a familiar color, making me realize she was using her Semblance for a brief moment to bring her shield back. Acting fast, I use my Medajalibur to stop her shield but I saw her aim the javelin (in rifle mode) at me. With my own Semblance, I made ice form a barrier to stop the bullets.

Jumping over the ice, I landed on my feet and charged towards her with my two swords. With ice forming around me, I launched a few towards Pyrrha to distract her. The redhead used her shield to stop the projectiles. I jumped to deliver an overhead strike but the Invincible Girl uses her shield again to stop it.

With my attack stopped, Pyrrha aimed her javelin at me but I kicked it aside and moved myself away from her. I held the swords tightly, carefully scanning for an opening.

We circled each other, our weapons held tightly. After we stopped, I dash towards her, both blades scraping across the dirt.

Pyrrha slid one foot to the left, her shield ready to block my attack. Good. Quickly changing my grip, the swords were held in reverse and shoved dirt to her. The redhead used her bronze shield to protect her eyes.

I saw my chance that will lead me to victory. 'Now!'

When I was at arm's length, I intersect both my blades, barely touching Pyrrha's neck. However the poke on my chest allowed me to notice the javelin in her hand. We both took a moment to breath from the rush, our lungs needing to take a moment to regain air. The both of us already drenched in sweat from the long sparring.

"I guess we can end this as a draw." The redhead suggested.

"Yeah." We move our weapons away, both of us relaxing. The ice wall disintegrated into mist and handing her the shield.

"You're getting the hang of it." Pyrrha commented.

"Gotta thank Ankh." I twirled the swords and place them into their respective sheath. "Plus, as you said, we gotta keep our skills on top."

"True." Pyrrha agreed, her personal weapons placed on her person. "Are you sure it is alright to train after, you know?" She was referring to what happened a few days ago.

"I'll be okay. A little sore but it won't affect my battle performance." I assured the redhead.

"If you say so." I can tell she had some concerns and I wouldn't blame her. Given what happened previously, we all had to be careful from here on. There's no telling what will happen here in Menagerie after the Yummy attack along with the spy. I just hope we can do something to stop the attack on Haven.

Giving a look at Pyrrha, I failed to recall her time here in Kuo Kuana. I asked her, "Say Pyrrha, how is everything here for you anyway? Have the locals been treating you well aside from Blake's parents?"

"It's been alright. I have gotten a few glares here and there but nothing major." The redhead replied.

"Are you sure?"

"It's alright, really."

I sighed. "Okay… sorry, Pyrrha. I'm just concerned about you and Gamel's treatment here since us three are-"

"I understand. Rest assured, we'll be okay." The Invincible Girl smiled. "And Enrique."

"Yeah?" The redhead brushed a lock of my hair that covered my left eye. The said lock of hair kept away to prevent it from covering my eye.

"You should probably cut your hair; Back to how it was." Pyrrha giggled.

"A-Ah right..." I remembered letting myself change a bit throughout the time that has passed since the Fall of Beacon. "Guess I have to cut it down."

With the long training, I should use the opportunity to take a needed shower. "I'll head inside." I decided. "And thanks for the spar, Pyrrha."

"No problem."

Heading inside the Belladonna residence, I made my way back to the room to grab a new set of clothes before heading to the bathroom. With myself covered in sweat, it was needed.

Opening the door to allow myself in, I closed it behind me. With my new set of clothes prepared and the shower started, I took a moment to relax amidst the warm water washing over.

A lot sure has changed for some of us. After rinsing the shampoo off my hair, I turned off the water and dried myself with the towel.

Looking at myself in the mirror, I remembered how much time has passed over the year. My fingers rub a lock of my hair, making me realize that a lot really has changed. Releasing my hold, I blew some air to keep it between my eyes. Yeah, Pyrrha was right. I probably should cut my hair.

Looking at the counter by the sink, I picked up the scissors I grabbed recently. I took a deep breath. "Well, about that time." Good thing I knew a lot about haircuts.

Walking out of the bathroom after taking a shower, I brush my hand across my hair, the style now shorter. It was back to how it was before and shortly after Beacon Academy fell. A sense of nostalgia tickled my mind at the memories. I guess with what happened after the Fall and the battle against Gara, I allowed myself to change during the travel from Vale. At least now it was back to how it was for me, in a good way.

"Well, seems someone is trying to be impressive." A nearby chuckle came out. I noticed Kali made her presence known. She of course, was the mother to Blake, who allowed me and everyone else to stay at her place. She was a very caring and loving person, who swiftly accepted me and Blake's relationship.

"I do hope you try to be more careful, this time around?" Kali cautioned, "I don't want to see Blake sad again by you being injured."

"Don't worry, it will be alright from here on." I vouched.

"I hope so." She sighed, only to look at me as she walked up to pluck a strand of hair that was longer than the rest. "You missed a spot."

My brows furrowed in embarrassment. "I'm not a kid, remember?"

"Hehe, I know. But I can't help but pamper you." Kali giggled.

Those words made me remember my childhood with my parents. Sure my mom did it but as I grew older, it was embarrassing. I am an adult now.

... I sure miss the good old days.

"Everything alright?" Mrs. Belladonna's voice brought me out of my thoughts and I replied, "Uh... yeah. I should probably go to the others. We got some stuff to do before we continue with the plan."

"Oh, that's right." Blake's mother realized. "I should go see how Ghira is doing. You be careful now."

"I will."

Kali walked passed while I went the opposite direction. We have to prepare for the plan Blake wanted us to do. I am pretty sure they are getting prepared for it.

I stopped mid step when I finally saw Blake as she was doing maintenance on her Gambol Shroud. I quietly leaned against the wall by the doorframe, watching her load her ammo as well as making sure the mechanism is functional.

My eyes noticed she carried some Ice Dust, giving me an idea for the fun of it. When she reached for it, I used my Semblance and made it roll away from her grasp.

Blake looked at it for a moment before she reached but once again, I used my Semblance to move it away again. I held back a chuckle of amusement. When Blake attempted to grab the Ice Dust cartridge one last time, I made it fly to my waiting hand as she finally took notice of me.

"You know that would have happened anytime." I teased the Cat Faunus, moving myself off the wall. She really should have recalled my Cryokinesis.

"Such a tease." Blake said with a huff, only to smile and walk up to me, placing her arms around as we shared a soft kiss. Her amber eyes trail up slightly, noticing my haircut. "You cut your hair back to the way it was." Blake noticed.

"I thought it was about time I did." I admitted with a small shrug.

I suddenly felt Blake's hand brush against the top of my head affectionately, her fingers caressing the short locks, making me involuntarily shiver with goosebumps. There was no doubt Blake figured some of the sensitivity of my nerves, in a good way.

"You look better in this." She smiled.

"Really?"

"It brings back memories of how it was for us at Beacon..."

I caught a shift in her tone for a brief moment. "...You miss them too?" I guessed. Blake nodded slowly, her cat ears flattening against her head.

Gently, I rest my hand against her cheek, brushing it with my thumb. "Me too, Blake. Me too." I understood how she felt. We have been away from her former team for a year and there's no doubt our bond with them will have to be fixed.

I miss them very much. They were my family. I wonder what they are doing now?

"Come on, we should head to the porch so we can get your plan started." I insisted.

"Right." She agreed and we made our way outside the house where we noticed Pyrrha, Gamel, Ankh, and Sun.

"Everyone here?"

"Yup. We're all set." Sun gave a thumb up in confirmation. "What's the plan?"

"The first thing we should try to do is find this Faunus." Blake presented the Scroll to display the image for us to see.

"So we have to locate the Faunus to find out what is going on?" I asked.

"Yeah…" Blake looked at the Scroll we took from the Chameleon Faunus. "But we would have to be careful after what happened previously."

I rubbed the upper right corner of my torso uncomfortably at the reminder. Yeah, it was a painful reminder. I almost died from that spy's attack but I was glad my Aura and Core Energy prevented further damage.

"Ankh. You can be the lookout to locate the Faunus we have to find." The Cat Faunus informed, earning a low huff from the Bird Greeed. "Pyrrha. You, Sun, and Gamel will be searching in the residential area while Enrique and I search in the street market with Ankh going with us."

"Got it." We understood the plan. It was simple. Two groups of three in the areas where we could find the Faunus.

Holstering our respective weapons, we made sure we are all set before leaving the household to begin our given assignments. Hopefully this plan will go well for us to convince the locals of what the White Fang has done.

The village market was almost crowded with Faunus. We had to search for someone and decided to split up. I was with Blake and Ankh while Pyrrha was with Gamel and Sun. We had to act natural in the crowd to allow ourselves to not raise much attention. Ankh served as the 'eye in the sky'. In reality, scouting from the rooftops due to his Bird Greeed status. As he traverse across the rooftops, Blake and I were proceeding around the market before I noticed my girlfriend approached a booth that held flowers.

Walking over to her, she leaned forward a bit to observe the plants. However, I noticed her eyes saddened slightly while her cat ears droop a bit. I wonder what is wrong with her?

"Everything alright, Blake?" I asked.

"It's… about Ilia…"

"You mean that woman from a few days ago?" I recalled. I still remember that young woman who nearly killed me when she used that whip. The upper left side of my body was still reeling a bit from that burn. My Aura may have healed the injury but it can hurt like hell during the healing process. "You were friends, weren't you?"

"We looked out for each other back then…" She admitted sadly. "Before him, she and I worked together occasionally on missions..."

"What changed?" She was left silent, myself realizing it was bringing up memories. I gently planted my hand on her shoulder to assure her. If she didn't want to bring it up, it's her choice. "Hey it's okay, you don't have to tell me if it brings up bad memories."

Blake nodded in gratitude before I got a message from Ankh via Candroid. Looking at the mechanical grasshopper, it displayed a message via holographic projection to read it.

'Far right of the booth ahead, the target is there.'

"Blake," I said to her. "Ankh spotted the guy we're looking for."

Her cat ears regained composure, my girlfriend looking at me, seeing her eyes displaying focus. No doubt she is now focused on the task.

Walking to the center of the village market, we look around before I saw the target. Placing my hand on her shoulder, Blake looked at me before noticing where I was looking.

Blake looked ahead to see the person we are going after. By the booth, our target was looking at the knives that were being sold. Looking at her Scroll, the Cat Faunus double checked and sure enough, it displayed the image of the person we are after. Glancing a look at me, I nodded and messaged the others before the both of us begin to approach the man.

We saw him use lien as purchase for the knife but when he saw Blake and I bring out our respective swords, he scowled in anger before firing a gun at us. Blake used Gambol Shroud as a shield to block the bullets as people panicked and tried to get away. Our target then broke into a run and disappeared into the crowd.

"Why do they always run?" I groaned in annoyance. I spoke into the Candroid, "Ankh?"

"I'm in pursuit."

I nodded to Blake and we both gave chase.

"We are on our way too!" We heard Pyrrha said through the Candroid.

Chasing after the Faunus, the both of us saw him turn around to fire again but I used the Medajalibur to block the bullets coming in our direction. When the sound of a click rang out from the gun, the man growled and turned a corner to run.

As we chase after him, the both of us notice the Faunus bringing out his butterfly knife before leaping over a cart, cutting off the connection.

"Crap!" I cursed but from one pathway of the market, the familiar Beast Greeed and Monkey Faunus brought their hands up, stopping the cart. "Thanks Gamel! Sun!"

"Go after that mean Faunus!" Gamel said.

Blake and myself rushed past the two, my girlfriend using her Gambol Shroud and allowed herself to swing around the cart. I, on the other hand, used my Semblance to launch myself over the cart, the both of us nearing the Faunus.

Using the ribbon of her weapon once more, it wrapped around the Faunus's leg. "I got him," Blake said to me.

I rushed over to apprehend the man while Blake pulls him towards me. However, the moment I was in arms length, a foot planted to my gut, sending me reeling and landing next Blake. Regaining my bearings, I heard Blake gasp and the cause was the assailant who prevented me from nearing the Faunus.

It was Ilia.

Blake's frown almost turned into anger upon seeing the Chameleon Faunus. "Ilia…"

The said Faunus looked at us with a neutral look before she and the Faunus we were after ran away. I was about to chase them but the Chameleon Faunus uses her whip to remove the support of the rods above us, the objects blocking our path. I stepped back to avoid them and saw they were gone.

"Damn it." I kicked the dirt in frustration. "We almost had that guy."

If it wasn't for Ilia's interference, the plan would have gone well for us to get definitive proof. Great.

"You guys alright?" The both of us noticed our team along with Sun and Gamel jogging over to us.

I place my sword back on the magnetic clasp. "We're alright but the Faunus got away. No thanks to Ilia."

Ankh jumped off the rooftop above us. "That girl is clever with her camouflage. I lost sight of her the moment she and that Faunus retreated into the crowd west of here." The Bird Greed informed.

"In other words, back to square one for the time being." I complained. "Great. Now we have no choice but to warn the people again."

"That's if they can believe us." Pyrrha sighed. "Blake does have a point. It will be difficult to gain their support and the chance of obstacles like before."

"Simply your way of saying we're screwed either way." Ankh grumbled.

"Not in that way you think of, Ankh."

"You make it sound like it does."

"Okay, okay. Let's just focus on the main task." I waved my hands in front of Ankh. "We did have a few screw ups before Ankh. And we solved it. If we did that, we can do it again. We can ask Mr. Belladonna for some extra help on this problem."

"Agreed." Pyrrha nodded, as she turned to Gamel, "Now that the danger is over, think you could return those Yummies? We don't want the Faunus here to be worried about some attack."

"Aye!" Gamel saluted.

Oh right. Gamel did summon a few to scout for anything related to the task. I looked at the moving crowd from a far. Seeing this, it makes me wonder if we can gain their support on this situation. Furthermore due to Ilia's interference.

After calming the people in the market due to the incident, we returned to the residence and requested Ghira's help. The chieftain was willing to help us given the situation. So with the suggestion in mind, we followed Ghira to the White Fang building that housed the Emissaries. I glanced at Ghira, the man looked to be irritated and I don't blame the guy.

After the incident with the spy and discovering the plan to attack Haven and overthrow the current leader of the White Fang, no doubt Ghira wanted questions that needed to be answered.

"We're here…." Ghira said, glaring at the building. He didn't even waste time as the guards quickly moved aside the moment they saw Ghira's frustration before nearing the entrance to the White Fang building. He truly was angered by the info we gave him, and it showed. Opening the doors of the White Fang building of Menagerie, some of us took stock of the area. While this wasn't the HQ for the White Fang, this served as the location for the Emissaries.

Seems this is one of the branches. I looked at it while Sun did the same.

"I'm not sure how I feel about this." I murmured.

"You're telling me." Sun agreed as we followed Blake and Ghira. Ankh stayed back at the residence with Gamel and Pyrrha to make sure things were alright.

Ankh even gave me some kind of advice when going into this building.

'Keep an eye on those Emissary idiots. Seeing a human like you helping the Faunus will go against their beliefs. Make sure they don't use you in their plans.'

Hell, my presence here has got everyone's attention on Menagerie. Myself and to extension Pyrrha and Gamel's human disguise, were the only humans in Kuo Kuana. It was obviously very rare for them to see someone like us here on the island.

Not to mention me being able to become OOO and Pyrrha becoming Proto-Birth. The people at Kuo Kuana didn't know it yet, but I fear that the White Fang will use the former Multi-King's past against me. I only recall Ozpin, Ironwood, and Glynda being aware of the Lost History. Then again, Kazari would have shared that information with him given the scheming Greeed was helping them.

When that time comes, I have to be ready.

"Psst." Sun nudged.

"Hm?" Sun pointed ahead slightly, making me see who were seated.

There, we saw the two White Fang emissaries Ghira wanted to talk to. Both of them were already seated as they took heed of our presence.

"Sir." The brothers acknowledged the chieftain's presence.

"Mind telling me, why you two lied about White Fang members being on Menagerie?" Ghira demanded, as he slammed the palms of his hands on the table, demanding answers.

"We did not expect to learn of this," The brother on the left replied. His tone hid the total lie as I noticed Blake scowl slightly but calmed herself down.

"And of Ilia's actions?" I decided to ask.

"Who?" The other brother questioned, "Oh, right. Her. We had no idea that she was on the island at all."

"Yeah, and I'm the owner of the Schnee Dust Company." I frowned.

The brothers soon glare at me, already taking notice of my actions. "I am not sure if he should take part in this conversation." The two Faunus Emmissarries glance at me in question.

Great, there are two jerks.

"He takes part of this conversation. Whether you like it or not." Ghira defended.

The two Faunus look at the chieftain of the village before complying with a nod. "Very well then."

That went well.

Correction, more like total bullshit is what I saw it as.

After the conversation we had with the Emissaries, Ghira and Sun were more upset than the rest of us. Sure I was upset too but I chose to just leave it as it is. Getting angry will get me nowhere thus I controlled my emotions very well to not display it. Sun and Ghira however...

"Unbelievable!" Ghira shouted.

Both Ghira and Sun were displaying how they felt unlike me. Both were unhappy with the results of the conversation.

"Total garbage!" Sun was the next to yell.

Ghira released out a growl, and he and Sun turned to each other with the same reaction. "We can't let them get away with this!

"At least you two can finally agree on something." I quipped in amusement

The two Faunus looked at me, then back at each other. Sun gave an awkward chuckle while rubbing his head, and Ghira glared slightly with a growl, fists clenched. Just as a possible argument was going to ensue, Blake intervened.

"Guys. Everything's going to be okay." Blake said to them, hoping to calm the situation. "I know it didn't get us anywhere but we should at least try a different method."

"How, though? The people here are unwilling to fight against the White Fang."

Blake chewed her lip, attempting to think of a plan. It looked like she was trying her best on this. We all are giving her support but with the interference of Ilia, it was getting difficult every time.

"We do have a possible plan." Ankh stated, looking at me. "Him being OOO."

"Are you suggesting me to use force?" I frowned.

"Of course not, you idiot. You're the only human these Faunus have seen you and helped by you directly." Ankh huffed, crossing his arms in annoyance. "With the Yummy attack that happened previously, no doubt some of them are grateful being saved despite their own views of humans."

I did recall that. The odd Yummy that put me in a dream state. I still wonder what type of Yummy it was.

"If the White Fang are gonna use Adam as their figurehead, we'll be using you as our own. Prove that their ideals are wrong." The Greeed concluded.

"That's… actually not a bad idea." Sun commented. "That was fast to think of that."

"It's how it is for me, monkey boy. I rather plan ahead than standing around like a rock."

"But what if the White Fang tried to reveal the past of the previous Multi-King?" Blake pointed out.

"If." Ankh reminded. "May I remind you morons that all history of that damn Kingdom was erased." He hissed. "A rare few like Ozpin and that stupid general were aware."

"Don't forget Kazari since he is also Greeed." Sun added, earning a glare from the blonde Greeed. "Shutting up now."

"We'll deal with that when the time comes. I don't think he'll be stupid to reveal that information to them; scheming bastard he is." He reached in his pocket and produced a wrapped ice cream. "Now if you excuse me, I am gonna be on the roof in the meantime. You lot go do what you want." He said and left us.

"Sheesh, that guy has no sense of positivity." Sun crossed his arms.

Yeah, I can agree with Sun on that. Ankh is a jerk but he means well to us. We–Pyrrha, Blake, and I–knew that despite his cold behavior we knew it was his way of hiding the good words about us. He just won't admit it.

"I'll try to contact some of my old associates and see if they can help us." Ghira replied. "Enrique, you better watch yourself. If he plans to make you as a figurehead to oppose Adam, the Emissaries will definitely try to take you down."

"I figured that out from that very meeting. Those two are out for my blood." Knowing what I did to Adam, I was pretty sure they are going to go for me either way.

They already pinned me as a huge threat from the day we saw each other. I wonder what will happen now from here on with the Emissaries now aware of what we are trying to do?

After everything earlier, I chose to relax for a bit outside of the Belladonna home. With security heightened around the house, it made things somewhat easier. But during the meeting with those two Faunus earlier today, their eyes often stole glances towards me.

No doubt there was something fishy… and it wasn't from the ocean waters either.

They seemed alerted. Wary even. Did Adam's first defeat at the battle of Beacon set alarms to them? If so, I basically have a huge bullseye on my back.

Licking my lips, I let out a moment to breath and decided to head back inside and call it a night. Suddenly, I heard a few snaps of branches. Last I recall, there was barely any wildlife here in the village.

I slowly reached for the Upgraded Medajalibur, my body tense and on guard. I quickly turned around and point my sword at the tree.

"Stop hiding, Ilia." I warned.

There was no movement at first until the camouflage wore off. The Chameleon Faunus was seen perched on a tree branch, not wearing her mask.

"You should leave Menagerie before it's too late." Ilia warned.

I frowned and replied, "Why should I? When you tried to kill Blake." I still can't forget how I took the hit instead of Blake. "These people need to realize what is happening."

"You just don't understand do you?"

"I do understand that the White Fang are not what they were supposed to be. If you want me to leave, then make me." I challenged.

The Faunus was silent.

"However…" she looked at me albeit briefly. "Blake told me everything about you. Believe it or not, I understand where you're coming from."

A visible frown marred her features. "Like you would know." Ilia retorted.

"I lost everything too." I admitted. "When I was little, I lost my father in the line of duty. After his death, I was picked on. Bullied since then. You were bullied too, weren't you?"

Her hands clenched, her skin changing in reaction of her emotions. She did her best to hide it but failed.

"I had my mom and little sister for a little while too, and they were taken from me too. The same day I lost my father but three years apart." Ilia stared at me. "I do know where you are coming from. You need to realize what you are doing is leading more people to die. Including innocent Faunus."

"Why do you even care?" Ilia questioned suddenly.

"Because I know what it is like. Wanting to lash out to the world after having everything you deeply cherish taken from your life." I stated firmly. "But I chose to not lash out like you or Adam. I chose to help everyone around me. Be it human or Faunus."

I took a moment to breath before saying, "You have to make your choice soon. If you don't, you will only earn regret from your actions in the end."

My selfishness of wanting to see my dad's grave was the reason my mom and sister died. A future my sister couldn't have. That life in the past was something I held guilt from. I vowed to my late family that I will help anyone in need, to reach out and help them see having more isn't always a good thing.

Ilia lowered her head for a moment but shook it. Seems she thought of something but quickly suppressed it. "Don't say I didn't warn you." She said before leaving into the lush greenery.

When Ilia vanished, my mind relaxed for a brief moment. Learning about Ilia's past from Blake, I understood what the Chameleon Faunus was going through. She was in pain, that I can see in her eyes. The familiar pain I felt when I lost my family. She may have joined the White Fang but I can see there is still a part of her wanting to make amends for her mistakes. Just like Blake.

I just hope Ilia doesn't make a mistake that will forever change her. Into someone like Adam...or like I once was.

I glanced at the tree branch one last time. 'I hope you can see what you are doing will only hurt people, Ilia…'

Blake and I travel across the market together since we all needed a moment to plan our next move to retake the White Fang. Her right hand intertwined my left hand as we took time to think over what to do next. I wanted to make sure she was relaxed from the troubles since we needed a plan to earn the support of everyone.

Yeah, I was still a little pissed about the meeting but again it would get nowhere. I chose to keep it to myself and focus on the task.

"Those two are more of a snake than I thought…" Blake frowned. "They were fully lying in our faces and they knew it."

"No kidding." I agreed.

"I just hope dad's suggestion works… we already have enough problems to worry about after that Yummy attack."

I can understand how she felt as we all are trying to pitch in on gaining support. I am pretty sure Ankh wouldn't have luck due to his grouchy behavior. Sun, maybe while Gamel and Pyrrha would probably have some luck but given the White Fang's objective, they would more likely be preventing it.

"Just what are they thinking? Adam is just insane now to do this. Why would anyone still believe his lies?" Blake said, angry at the fact of what Adam is trying to do.

"Hey." Blake looked at me. "I know there is a lot going on but if I learned anything is to not give up. Isn't that what you once told me back at Beacon?"

The Faunus took a moment to calm down. "I'm sorry… with the problems going on-"

"It's alright. I can understand how you feel." I assured her.

"Thank you…" Blake thanked.

Our walk continued with small silence but I had to tell Blake about the visit/warning from Ilia.

"Ilia confronted me yesterday." I informed Blake.

The cat Faunus paused and looked at me. "Did she attack you?"

I raised my hand to assure her and said, "No. Nothing of that sort. She merely gave a warning to leave Menagerie."

My girlfriend frowned slightly at the response. "That must mean they're definitely planning something in Menagerie. They're already began their move."

I tapped her forehead, making her look at me. "Don't get too focused, okay?" I stated. "I know we have to focus on what they're doing but we still need time to think. Remember what happened to you back at Beacon?"

"I know. But did you seriously have to bring that up?"

Okay, I think I pulled a bad move. "E-Er, well…" I scratched my cheek with my finger.

"Relax, I'm just kidding."

I noticed her thin smile before lowering my hand. "Sometimes I wonder if you're being sarcastic or serious at times." I wondered. Given Blake's personality, she was really good at hiding her jokes as she doesn't lack a sense of humor.

"Just means you still have a lot to learn from me." She smirked playfully with a wink.

"Har har." Two can play at this game. "At least I was not the one who used to read that ninjas of love book." I paused. "Come to think of it, I just realized you haven't read that book ever since the tournament?"

Back in Beacon, I would sometimes see her reading that mature novel. She didn't read it as often during the tournament.

"Because I found my samurai." She blushed from saying that.

It literally took me five seconds to realize what she meant. "... a-ah…" I managed to say. Now I know why she stopped reading those novels.

We looked away out of either awkwardness upon the reason or embarrassed to the explanation. I cleared my throat for a moment to control myself and asked, "Say Blake."

"Yeah?"

"I wanted to ask… about our friends, during our time at Beacon," I noticed her glance at me. "What did you see in them?"

The Cat Faunus paused for a brief moment, looking down at the ground before she closed her eyes to sum up the right words. "Well… I remember getting to know Ruby and thinking she was the embodiment of purity."

"That does sound like her." I agreed with a small chuckle. Ruby was all of that much like my little sister. Both being the embodiment of it.

"But after awhile, I saw Weiss as defiance and Yang was strength…" the mention of her former partner made her look away, holding her arm at the memory.

I winced, realizing I brought up the worst type of question. "S-Sorry Blak-"

"It's okay. I know you wanted to ask so I want to answer." My girlfriend assured me. The Cat Faunus took a deep breath, "Anyways, for Ankh, well I am honestly not sure what to see him as. Either avarice due to being a Greeed or an embodiment of intellect."

Yeah she may be right on that. Ankh was very smart than most think given he was the tactician for the late Multi-King. Plus, he was a Greeed who are monsters of desires; practically the embodiment of it.

"And then… there is Selflessness." Blake looked at me. "You. You never asked for anything in return, always looking out for people. Never seeing them for what they are, only who they are as people. As equals."

The Cat Faunus rested her head against me, nuzzling slightly. "With that, you made me happy… for so long, you made me feel better after everything. To know you filled the void in me." She whispered, her hand gripping my coat. "I… don't want to lose that happiness. I don't want to feel that void again."

My eyes softened. "Blake…"

"Nearly losing you by Ilia scared me. I can't lose you again, not again."

She nearly lost him to Gara's plans in Beacon and nearly lost him by her former friend. She can't let another event as before happen to him. Every time, it scared her to her core.

"I won't leave you, Blake." I promised, gently rubbing her back.

"Promise?" Blake whispered.

I kissed her and replied, "I promise. You know I am not the type to go back on a promise."

My girlfriend's grip on my coat tightened. She knew how serious I was when I made a promise to her. Not once I go back on it. I want her to stay happy than be burdened with guilt. We both had our moments of guilt throughout our respective pasts and we help ease that pain.

"You better…." Blake murmured softly as she hugged me tightly. "Can we stay like this… please?"

I smiled thinly. "Sure thing."

No matter what happens, I won't leave her alone ever again. To stay alive for her sake.

CURRENT MEDALS:

Blazing: Taka (x2), Kujaku (x1), Condor (x1)

Scorching: Lion (x1), Tora (x2), Cheetah (x1)

Strongest: Kuwagata (x1), Kamakiri (x1), Batta (x1)

Legendary: Kobura (x1), Kame (x1), Wani (x1)

Water: Shachi (x1), Tako (x1), Unagi (x1)

Gravity: Sai (x3), Gorilla (x1), Zou (x2)

Invincible: Ptera (x1), Tricera (x1), Tyranno (x1)

Ultimate King: Super Taka (x1), Super Tora (x1), Super Batta (x1)

(NEXT TIME)

"Another Yummy?!"

"It can't be…" I gasped in horror.

"It is time we fight, OOO." The armored fiend announced.

Next Time: Riders, New Greeed, Grudges

A/N: And that concludes the chapter for this story! It seems things will take a turn and it won't be good. However, there is more going on in the shadows which will be revealed in the next chapter. What you ask? You'll have to see for yourselves. Also, by June, I will be publishing another story so look forward to that! Don't forget to favorite, follow and review this chapter! Stay in the shadows everyone and see you all later!