Disclaimer: I do not own RWBY. RWBY is owned by RoosterTeeth and Monty Oum.
CHAPTER 14: Recollections
The imposing ivory slabs glided open at his touch, but the reverberations of his footsteps throughout the Chambers of the Lords signaled his arrival. As he ascended the stairs of the council chamber, the banners of the lords slowly came into view. Each of them was decorated with unique heraldry, designed to represent the different aspects of the kingdom.
Helms kept his gaze straight as he slowed to a stop in the center of the chamber, surrounded by the Royal Council of Mantle. They were a collective of thirteen lords and ladies, seated behind a singular table that stretched around him in a nearly complete circle. He regarded their gazes, each scrutinizing, before clearing his throat and beginning.
"Members of the Royal Council, I thank you for gathering on such short notice."
"Enough with the formalities, General Helms. What could be so important that you have summoned us today?" a lofty voice inquired. Xander Vorthic, tall and imposing with his hawk-like visage. He was the leader of the thirteen, the representative voice of the council.
"Very well," Helms began. "Council members, Lord Vorthic, before you all today I would like to make a request; the authorization of an expansion of our military forces into the Kingdom of Vale."
"And in what way is exerting military power into another kingdom appropriate, General? Unless, of course, you are suggesting conquest?" Another voice inquired, a deeper tone that rumbled within the chamber. Sebastian Glen, broad and stout, the Lord of Defence.
"By establishing a presence among another kingdom, it allows for other cooperative endeavors to be explored. As you all know, this is how our relationship with Mistral, our sister kingdom, began."
"We are well aware of that fact," Vorthic answered, "but that was at a time when it was to ensure our mutual survival against the Grimm, before the advent of our revolutionary military and technological advancements."
"That is true, but—"
"We are beyond the dark ages of humanity, Helms. There is no need for that drastic level of cooperation anymore. Attempting to integrate two kingdoms now is completely unnecessary and impractical as well," another voice noted. Lady Calan, slim and shrewdly beautiful, the Lady of Commerce.
"Indeed, Lady Calan, as they too have managed to survive in their own ways. That being said—"
"Then there is nothing more to say, is there not?" Vorthic concluded. "Although your opinion holds much weight, General, practically equal to one of ours given your position, I find myself questioning your motivations if you simply called us here today to address such a trivial matter."
"If you would allow me to explain, Lord Vorthic. I believe that the threat of the Grimm has not yet fully diminished. Rather, it is increasing, as preposterous as that may sound. If we choose inaction, we may well return to those dark ages."
"And how could that be possible?" Cassius Falnor asked, the Lord of the Treasury.
"You are aware of fluctuations in Grimm encounters, no? Periods in which recorded engagements with the Grimm increase erratically. When they do occur, it is only for two to three weeks at a time, and only a few times per year."
"Your point being, Helms?" Lord Glen barked.
"The recent engagements against the Grimm have been steadily increasing in size and intensity. It is nothing that the military cannot handle yet," Helms explained. "However, it has been seven weeks since this most recent fluctuation began. Not only has the quantity of the Grimm increased, but the quality and variety as well. Only four days ago did I receive reports of Obivos encroaching upon the slopes of Mantle's northern borders, a type of Grimm that has not been seen in decades."
"And on what grounds do you think that this is a sign of impending danger? What if it is nothing more than an abnormality of an abnormality?"
"I myself have authorized an investigation without the knowledge of the governments of Vale and Vacuo, utilizing a network of spies as well as our more covert aerial forces—"
"Are you mad? Did you even stop and think of the possible ramifications of infringing upon the sovereignty of another kingdom, Helms? And no less with spies and our limited aerial resources?" Vorthic exclaimed, pointing an accusatory finger at Helms.
"Of course I have, and I have come to the conclusion that any political ramification pales compared to the danger that the Grimm presents to humanity."
"But are they still as prevalent of a threat? Surely there's no need to be that drastic, is there?" Lady Calan inquired.
"Do you still believe it to be drastic if I told you that such occurrences like these have, in one form or another, occurred across multiple areas in each of the kingdoms?"
"What?"
"From what we have ascertained, there have been movements of Grimm across the continent of Sanus, more so in the regions surrounding Vale. It has been subtle, almost imperceptible, but through the combination of local rumors and confirmed reports, it has been determined that the Grimm are gathering."
"And Vacuo?"
"There have been a recent number of tectonic shifts in the land. The people there do not notice it as much, due to the sand absorbing the energy. However, there is no other explanation for the drastic shifts in the dune formations across large areas. For all of these events to be happening in a relatively same period of time, I can only conclude that something is amiss."
The silence pervaded the room as the implications of what he said became realized. Types of Grimm that were previously thought long gone? Large movements and congregations across a continent? Abnormal tectonic activities in Vacuo?
Vorthic's eyes were narrowed, and a deep scowl had set on his face. It seemed that he wanted to dispute these claims, for they seemed ludicrous. However, it was after a minute of consideration that he deflated, running a hand across his face.
"We will consider this further, but for the time being we shall put this to a vote. All in favor of granting General Helm's request for a military expansion into Vale?"
General Helms closed his eyes and sighed as thirteen hands rose in response.
"There you have it, General. We shall deal with the political maneuvering required to convince the Valean Council to see things from our perspective. You, on the other hand, will be held under scrutiny for the duration of this campaign. If the results are not satisfactory, we shall immediately recall all armed forces back to Mantle." Vorthic concluded.
"What of Mistral and Vacuo?"
"In time, General. You will be notified in the coming future of what you will need to do."
"Very well. I thank you all once again for this audience."
He strode out of the chamber, feeling no better than when he had entered. He had received permission from the council, and yet their acknowledgement of the danger, however reluctant, weighed down on him. There was a certain finality to this decision, and it seemed that it would be one where there would be no going back.
"Henry Helms, General of Mantle's armies," he introduced, offering his gloved hand to the red-headed man. "Pleasure to meet you."
Helms did not come bearing light news, yet he hoped that it did not show in the small gesture. However, the subtle reactions of his host told him more than enough.
"The pleasure is mine," the host replied, matching the firm handshake. "Athenion Nikos, crown prince of Mistral."
"Shall we take a seat, Your Majesty?" Helms asked, noting the younger man's position. He gestured to the seats in the room before them, as a gesture of respect.
"Of course. And please, 'Athenion' will be fine," he said, taking a seat. "That title belongs to my father, who has seen fit to delegate this task to me. If anything, your wisdom and experience is far above this position I've inherited, General."
"Very well," Helms replied, following suit. "That would explain why I am not currently talking to His Majesty Pericles the Second. Is he well?"
"Well enough as someone his age can be."
"I see. Then I will begin by explaining my reasons for being here today. I have been sent by the Mantlean Royal Council to contact you. Do you recall an inquiry made by Mantle, a few weeks ago, regarding Grimm activity in your kingdom?"
"Of course. If I recall, there was an unnatural rise in conflicts against the Grimm, even compared to the ones in the past. Even recently, the Mistrali army has had to deal with roaming herds of aggressing Goliaths, which was something that we certainly did not expect. I assume this is in some way related to your arrival?"
"That would be correct. I have come with a warning, Athenion. These rising conflicts that you mentioned, they have been occurring in the other kingdoms as well. Our kingdom, with its natural terrain and technological advancements, is more than equipped to deal with this threat. However, what worries me is the fact that these recent incidents do not seem to be subsiding."
"That is indeed a cause for concern. You mentioned the other kingdoms, so what of them?"
"We have not officially contacted them yet, but we have done preliminary investigations of their Grimm activity without their knowledge. Given the rising urgency of the situation, there was no time to establish an official agreement. That being said, there was not too much we could ascertain from Vacuo, although recent abnormalities in tectonic activity in the desert have been worrisome. As for Vale, we were able to find information regarding gatherings and migrations of Grimm across the regions surrounding the kingdom.
"So what will you do now, General?" Athenion asked, his posture and gaze unflinching.
"The Mantlean royal council will soon be making initial contact with the Valean council to inform them of the situation. Since it is the Grimm we are dealing with, I assume the council may choose to take more immediate, albeit drastic, actions to ensure the safety of Vale, who seem to remain ignorant to the growing threat. Further worsening the problem is their antiquated military structure, which will most likely have to be changed, whether they like it or not."
"And Vacuo?"
"The people there are a hardy folk, but outside aid wouldn't hurt them. If anything, the council will not be as hasty in making a decision regarding Vacuo, so I will not worry about it."
"Then I have one more question, General," Athenion stated. "Do you require the kingdom of Mistral to assist you in any way? I am well aware of the relationship between our two kingdoms, and I think it is well within my bounds to offer help."
"That will not be necessary, Athenion." Helms chuckled. "I only need you, and your father, to be aware of this potential threat so that the necessary preparations can be made."
"I see," Athenion stated. "I guess it is time for me to begin training again."
"Training? I didn't take you to be someone who engaged in combat."
"Victory is secured, not from the throne, but from the front lines." Athenion recited.
"I beg your pardon?"
"It's an old saying in my family, one that has existed since the beginning of our line, General, when we charged headfirst into the Grimm to ensure our continued existence."
"Interesting." Helms mused. "Forgive me for saying this, but it does seem a bit archaic, does it not?"
"It does, but I think it simply means that one must be willing to fight and die for the future. There is only so much politics and government can do against Grimm, a force that we barely understand. My grandfather followed it, my father followed it, I have followed it, and I hope in time that-"
There was a scuffle outside the door. Quiet, but enough for both Helms and Athenion to immediately cease the conversation. It seemed unlikely that someone would dare eavesdrop on them, but Athenion rose nonetheless to apprehend the intruder. Upon swiftly opening the door, his eyes widened.
"Shizuka? Hektor? What are you two doing here?" he asked as he looked upon the odd scene. Hektor was struggling quietly as Shizuka, his mother, held him by the ear and attempted to pull him away from the doors. Hektor stopped struggling and Shizuka bowed her head towards Athenion as they both heard him, however.
"And who might these people be, Athenion?" Helms asked, an eyebrow raised.
"My apologies, General Helms. This is Shizuka Nikos, my wife, and Hektor, my son."
Shizuka emanated an aura of elegance with her clear cyan robes and elevated cheekbones, with a demeanor that was both regal and demure. Hektor, the boy, only reached Helm's lower torso, but his face and build were quite similar to Athenion's.
"Our apologies, General," Shizuka said with a bow, subtly pushing down on Hektor's head to do the same. "It won't happen again."
"Not to worry, Lady Nikos," Helms returned the gesture in kind with a small smile. "It is natural for children to be curious. If I may ask, is he your only child?"
"We also have twin daughters, Selenia and Linara, three years younger than Hektor here."
"Is it true that the Grimm are coming?" Hektor interrupted, earning a sharp glare from Shizuka. Athenion sighed quietly, wondering how much he had overheard.
"Hektor!" Shizuka reprimanded.
"There is nothing to worry about, young man. Nothing to worry about if you can protect your family. You can do that, right?"
Hektor's puffed his chest in a show of bravado, which amused Helms.
"Of course I can!
"That is good." Helms replied, placing a hand on Hektor's shoulder. "We all have a duty to protect those that we care about."
"Come on, Hektor," Athenion interjected. "I won't be finished if you're here. Go with your mother."
Hektor nodded quietly and Shizuka bowed one last time, leading the boy away.
"I apologize deeply for that interruption, General."
"As I have said, Athenion, there is nothing to worry about. The mind of a child is a wondrous thing."
"Do have children of your own?"
"No, I do not," Helms sighed wistfully. "When one hold the title of 'General', love is hard, if not impossible, to come by."
"I see. In that case, shall we continue then?" Athenion asked, gesturing back into the room.
"That's alright. It would remiss of me to keep you from your family. As long as you heed this warning and make His Majesty aware of the situation, I will not have to worry as much. On that note, I shall take my leave. Farewell, Athenion."
"Farewell."
"Excuse me, does Osman live here?"
The young woman who answered the door did not immediately answer, nor did she need to. Footsteps behind her signalled his presence. Helms saw him behind her, eyebrows furrowed and standing straight.
"I am here, Henry."
"Osman, it has been far too long," Helms replied with a small smile.
"So it has..." Osman noted dryly, his deep stare betraying his calm demeanor. He walked up behind the woman and placed a hand on her shoulder. "Zahrati, leave us be. I will go and find you when we are done."
Zahrati, that was her name, nodded quietly and threw her white desert robe over herself. Not looking back, she walked out the door and disappeared into the festive night.
Osman took a seat, but said nothing as Helms stood by the door. There was a faint tension in the air, but Helms silently took a seat across from him.
"Osman," Helms began. "Are you well?"
"I am fine, Henry." Osman replied curtly, rising from his seat to fetch a pitcher of water and two cups.
"When was the last time we had met? It's been over thirty years, has it not?"
"I suppose so."
"It was on the northern ends of Vacuo, was it not?"
"I believe so, although the circumstances in which we met were less than agreeable."
"I remember. The Bandit Wars."
"Mantle's arrival at the time was most inopportune. I remember saving a younger Lieutenant, unfamiliar with the geography and cultures of our people. But he learned soon enough." Osman said, sitting back down and pouring water for them both.
"And I remember a younger mercenary, ready to kill to protect what was his."
Osman sighed. Although he had aged, Helms noted that the man sitting across from him had changed little, if at all.
"So what do you do these days, Osman? I doubt you still dabble in mercenary affairs."
"Of course not. After my time as a mercenary leader, I passed it onto my second-in-command, Nusar. As for what I do now, I keep my ears to the ground, listening, and keeping watch over this land. But no one, not even Zahrati, are fully aware of what it is I do."
"And yet you have seen fit make me aware." Helms stated.
"You are the only one so far, in fact, but know that I did not choose you by chance. Your influence upon this word is great, and I had hoped that you would use it properly."
"You had hoped? Have I done something wrong, something that you do not agree with?"
"I know full well of your position as the General of Mantle's armies. You control much power, yet I find myself disappointed in your execution of it."
"What?"
"What do you hope to accomplish with this heavy-handed maneuver? Are you so foolish to think that this trade deal has no ulterior motives?"
"What I am doing is for the good of this world, Osman. I had hoped that you, of all people, would understand."
"By exerting your will to another kingdom? I cannot begin to comprehend why such displays of power are necessary."
"You don't understand—"
"No, Henry." Osman's voice rumbled. "It is you who does not understand. There are forces that exist that you cannot even begin to fathom, yet you think you and your army will be enough to hold everything at bay."
"And whose fault is that, Osman?" Helms shot back. "All that I have to work with is what you have told me so many years ago, of the Queen and her pawns, and how what we are facing now would eventually happen. You told me to trust you then, Osman, and I did for quite a while. But I can not sit idly by and let what you told me to simply happen."
"And what makes you think what you are doing now is any better? Do you think that no one would notice if you began expanding your forces? All you are doing is letting the enemy know that we are aware of them, and thus we lose the element of surprise. All they have to do is go back into hiding and bide their time. Once we are unaware, they will simply strike again."
"Then tell me what I must do, Osman!" Helms said with a raised voice. "Everything that I have done, I have done for the good of our kingdoms, for humanity. If you will not tell me more, than I can only act with what little I know."
He saw it in Osman's eyes, the consideration of his words. However, they were quickly concealed as Osman seemed to shut him out. The change was rapid, as Osman's posture transformed from stern to tired.
"As much as I want to tell you, Henry, you are not ready yet," Osman sighed. "No one is."
"Very well, Osman." Helms said coldly as he rose from his seat, dusting himself off. "Know that what I do from now on will be for the greater good. Do not try to stop me, or I gladly burn whatever bridges we have left."
Before leaving, Helms stopped by the door.
"I apologize for occupying your time, Osman."
"Henry—"
"I think it would be best that you find Zahrati now. Good night."
A/N: Slightly shorter chapter, but a dense and important one nonetheless. Some holes are filled, some questions are raised, and the plot continues to truck on.
In regards to the title, I decided to change it from "Remnant of the Past" to "The Coming Dawn" for two reasons. The first of which was that I was never really satisfied with the title to begin with, so I had always been looking for a new one. Apologies for any possible confusion. Secondly, I was browsing other fics for RWBY, and I came across an author that also had a fic with the same name. So yeah, that wouldn't have worked out well.
Added in a placeholder cover art for the fic designed by yours truly. Much sweat and tears were spent on MS Paint putting it together. Will probably replace eventually.
Also changed the summary so that it would be a bit more poetic, and to emphasize what is to come.
Obivos- Musk-Ox Grimm, derived from the latin name Obivos Moschatus. This is just one of a few new types of Grimm that I would like to introduce, alongside the Leviathan.
As always, reviews, questions, and constructive criticisms are greatly appreciated.
-The Bard