Hero of Remnant: Veil of the Aether

by Aetherveil

Following after the events of the Volume 3 Arc, Dante, and his partner Inuba travel across Remnant to make their way to Haven, searching for clues that will lead them to the real mastermind behind the attack on Vale 6 months prior. They will meet allies, both old and new, and face challenging new enemies on their journey. Secrets will be revealed. Continuation of Hero of Remnant.

71. Chapter 71:A New Approach

Hey everyone, sorry for the delay.

You know how it is these days. Craziness and lots of different matters to attend to and such.

Anyway, to make up for it I wrote a great deal more.

Also, I've already started on the next chapter, so don't worry about it coming out too late.

With that, enjoy this week's chapter.

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Chapter 71: A New Approach

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---

- Nearly two years ago -

"Alright everyone. That will be all for this week." Anya spoke as she stood up from her chair at the round table, the other members of the student council doing the same, "Please make it home safely and have a good weekend."

The other students bowed politely, saying their goodbyes to their president and to each other before they slowly filtered out of the room.

Dante, however, was the only one to remain, watching the other students leave before closing the double doors. Anya got out of her seat and moved to her desk, the young man following her with her chair as he placed it behind her, allowing the girl to sit down as she went straight to work on the holographic screen.

There was still quite a bit to file away before they left for the weekend.

…

…

Actually, there wasn't… A lot of the reports had already been filed away. A few requisitions had highlights focusing on important and specific details to make quicker decisions and sign off on them, if needed.

She peeked over to the counter where they had their coffee machines and snacks, seeing Dante sipping from a grey mug while another cup of coffee was being brewed in a white mug.

"Perhaps I should have hired you as my secretary." She scoffed with a smile.

The teen smirked as he put a spoonful of sugar and some milk in her mug, mixing it quickly in ten rotations before he brought it over.

That was another thing she always found interesting about Dante. For someone so chaotic, there was an order to him. Or rather, he managed, as a person, to blend the two together perfectly, maintaining a strong balance between madness and order.

This idea was only furthered by his actions, both previously and now after…

…

After they started dating…

...

Just thinking about how bold she was two weeks ago made her blush for a few moments until he approached.

"I thought even you could use more of a break. First week I started working for you, I noticed you were one of the very few people that was last to leave school. The only people that ever leave that late are people involved with sports." He explained, "Remember that day in the second week that I stayed behind because I said I was bored?"

Anya smiled, quirking a brow at Dante.

"You were studying me." She said.

"I… guess I was mildly interested in you from the start. I mean… you went through such lengths to get me here, so I was curious."

"And? What did you discover?"

"Someone that can be just as meticulous as I am. Someone… who isn't afraid to speak their mind and doesn't take shit from anyone. Although admittedly… you're more… refined than I am." Dante explained as he set down the mug he prepared for Anya on her desk, and then sat on the sofa near the desk.

"I just… attempt to be as accommodating and understanding as possible. I don't see the need to lose my temper really, since getting angry only serves to create more misunderstandings and mistakes."

"Which is why you never lost your cool with me." Dante said.

"W-Well, yes, but… I too was curious, and… wanted to learn more about you…" Anya cleared her throat, brushing her light blonde bangs away from her face, "I always heard such incredible tales about 'the mighty Dante' and your many exploits. In all honesty, they were just that. Tall tales about a nonexistent monster."

"I guess it's only natural that people make up stories about my physical abilities… But I think that's the first time someone didn't equate my, uh… abilities to that of a monster. Someone that wasn't one of my friends I mean."

"I suppose it is fascination. Though, for different reasons." Anya noted.

"What else were you fascinated by, I wonder?"

"W-What do you mean?" She asked, sitting up straighter.

"What else took your fancy?"

"I… I was just… curious, at first. But the more I got to know you, it just… grew from simple curiosity to something else. I looked past everything; the rumors, the stories… and I found something quite unexpected." Anya managed to say, sighing briefly, "Your only desire in this life… It's so simple, and… well… uncharacteristically pure."

"Is that troubling?"

"N-No, just… Again, unexpected. There was just a lot that contrasted, considering how you act."

"It's just more fun that way."

"Confusing people about who you are?"

"A little bit. Like with you at the start. You piqued my interest with how direct and forceful you were. So I wanted to play with you. A bit, anyway. But… even I lose sometimes." Dante shrugged, "You did what few others do. Ignore all the stories, the bait I leave behind… You saw me as I was. You didn't turn away, you didn't look at me with disgust… You accepted me. Even… before your touching moment. You accepted me."

Anya paused from her multitasking, staring at the screen briefly before she shut it off and moved to the sofa, sitting next to Dante.

"Why?" He asked.

"I believe we're more alike than you would think."

"Something I've heard before."

"Because I truly believe in that idea. Yes, we operate differently, but… our reasons, our desire to act, are more or less the same."

"Good samaritan Anya…"

"I didn't decide to date you because of simple pity or charity. I just… genuinely found a lot of things I liked about you that you kept hidden away from general view."

"Saw right through me. It's like you have x-ray vision for a person's heart, or something."

"Perhaps." She spoke, slowly scooting closer to Dante, "Perhaps... I pay too much attention."

"If you did that, you would've noticed my hand just about ready to pull you towards me."

"W-What..?"

She yelped a little as she was forcibly pulled closer to Dante, feeling his hand on her waist. Anya almost fell over, so she had to use her hands to stop herself from doing so as she grabbed hold of Dante's shoulders.

And there they were, both completely still, both seemingly frozen in time and captivated by the other. Then that state melted away as Anya gulped silently, moving her face closer to his, and Dante moving his face towards her a moment afterwards.

A knock at the double doors made both of them jump up in surprise, the girl placing a hand over her heart to still it from the sudden shock, amongst other reasons.

"Bad luck." Dante smirked, laughing a little.

The girl promptly stood up, patting herself down to make herself presentable as she headed towards the door.

"I… I expect a continuation… mr. Dante…" she silently spoke before she reached the door.

"At your leisure, prez."

---

"Fancy courthouse…" Dante spoke as he followed the Special Inquisitor, "I'm guessing this is one of ten."

"Wrong actually. One of three." Melia corrected, "But this courthouse is special. It was the very first one made when Atlas was lifted into the sky for the first time ever. As such, when Council Members gather in order to pass laws or preside as judges in crucial cases, this is the courthouse they come to in order to do so."

"Fitting, I guess." Dante shrugged, passing through a long corridor.

Eventually they passed through a checkpoint, one of the posted officers checking the Special Inquisitor's credentials before he let her through with Dante.

"So… When did it occur to you my upcoming trial was a sham?" The young devil asked.

"From the moment Grand Inquisitor Pycelle even suggested the idea. He was rather… overly excited once he passed the warrant on to the other Council members for approval." Melia explained, "With some of the evidence he fabricated, along with a majority of rumors he gathered, he managed to convince everyone to bring you in on those charges as soon as you stepped into Atlas."

"Interesting… So rather than just go out and hunt me down, you predicted I'd eventually come to Atlas and opted to wait."

"Avery Davis was quite instrumental in predicting your trail. Once you entered Anima, it was quite clear you'd be heading for Mistral. And once you ventured to Argus, it would only be a matter of time until you reached Atlas."

"That's nice and all, but I'm curious as to what the good General had to say about this whole ordeal, if anything at all."

"He was one of four that voted against issuing a warrant for your arrest." Melia told him with a slight smirk, "The other six, Pycelle included, voted to issue your warrant. Though to be frank, he coerced three of the other Council members."

"Wow… He really pulled out all the stops to nail me… Any personal reason?" Dante asked, "Like did I accidentally spit my gum out on his shoe once? Or did I sneeze too close to him?"

"Nothing as foolish as that. He truly believes you to be some sort of demon risen from the Abyss. The rumors about you killing people haven't really helped your case. Particularly concerning that religious cult in Vale."

"Those freaks, huh…" Dante sighed, pondering other possibilities, "I doubt that's what this is about. If anything, it had to be something a little more public… Soooo… My guess is that the whole linchpin to this bullshit is Jonathan Friede."

Melia came to a halt, the young devil hearing the woman giggle slightly.

"Intelligent indeed… Yes, Grand Inquisitor Pycelle's 'linchpin' is indeed Jonathan Friede."

Melia turned around, hearing Dante snicker before he broke out in laughter for a few moments.

"Boy is he gonna shit a brick once he finds out I didn't kill that filth."

"Oh? So the eldest Friede sibling wasn't done in by you?"

"Of course not." The devil defended, "I wasn't even near the guy after his sister Maria locked him up. I was in a hotel room with my partner all night. From what Maria told me, Jonathan died from extreme electrocution to the point his flesh got completely charred. Seeing as I've got no lightning abilities in my arsenal of tricks, and that I was incredibly far away from the scene of the crime, there's no way I could've killed him."

"I see… He's doomed to fail then. Still, it'll be quite the show."

Melia pressed her Scroll against the scanner near a door to open it, Dante stepping in behind her. He looked around, seeing that this wasn't a courtroom at all. It was a holding cell, and currently, there was only one occupant.

Said occupant was comfortably laid back on his bed bouncing a small ball against the hardlight cell walls of his enclosure and catching it again in what looked like complete boredom.

He was wearing a spotless, white button-up shirt with his sleeves rolled up and the top three buttons undone. Additionally, he wore a pair of blue, close fitting jeans and some white-soled, grey canvas shoes.

Most curiously, on his head was a grey beanie, which upon close inspection had two slits to accommodate the boy's large, golden-furred feline ears, and with a squint, Dante could make out the curling tip of another appendage down by the guy's waist.

The other prisoner's head poked up once Melia and Dante entered the room, his violet eyes casually giving the two a once over before a subtle smirk crossed his lips.

"Hey, what the hell is this? I thought you said they're having my trial right now." Dante spoke.

"Unfortunately we've had to rush quite a few proceedings to accommodate you. You'll be in the holding cell for a few minutes. Again-"

"Yeah yeah, I'm not gonna escape or anything. I promised as much." Dante sighed as he entered one of the cells, a blueish wall of light sealing him in from all directions.

"Don't antagonize your 'cellmate' either."

"What do you take me for? Just hurry up so I can get out of here already."

She smirked, leaving the holding cells as Dante tapped his foot against the wall of bluish light.

Hardlight, huh? Kind of overkill. Then again… considering there's some punks out there with Semblances, maybe not. That, and they might use these kinds of restraints on the more dangerous types.

The sound of a throat being cleared echoed throughout the cell block before a masculine voice spoke out. "The only thing antagonizing me is this establishment illegally detaining me on baseless accusations."

"Oh? So what nonsense did they put you in here for? Stealing some fish?" The young devil smiled.

The boy smirked. "I wish it was that trivial buddy, but they wouldn't put me in here if that was the case. I would've been out the same day they locked me up, whether they liked it or not."

"Biding your time then? I see…" Dante said as he sat down, "And here she said they rushed a lot of proceedings today. But if you're the only one here right now… that must mean they left you in here on purpose to stew a little. No doubt because of those." He said, motioning his cuffed hands to the top of his head.

"Wouldn't surprise me, but this isn't the worst hospitality I've received." the boy replied, turning himself on the bed in his cell and leaning back in a way where he could both resume playing catch with himself and maintain direct eye contact. "I'm just waiting for her to specify what charges they're actually placing on my head."

"No offense, but I don't think she really gives a shit about what they charged you with, since she's with the Inquisitorial Section. Though I guess it wouldn't hurt to ask when she comes back." He shrugged, "So, what's your name friend?"

"Ray. Ray Chroma," the cat faunus replied, giving Dante a two finger salute and a small nod. "And if I'm not mistaken, you fit the description of the guy they call Dante."

"Must be another Dante. From what I heard it's a pretty popular name these days."

Ray smirked again, something that was looking like a common expression with him. "I'm not an idiot. Information circulates very quickly in my line of work. You're Dante Aetherveil alright."

"Tch… I'm gonna beat that idiot up whenever I see him again…" The young devil spoke bluntly, "Though I guess information does circulate rather quickly for those of the Chroma Household." Dante smirked, looking at Ray.

"I didn't hear of you through my family and your secret's safe with me." Ray replied courteously. "Also between you and me, I'm something of a black sheep among my own."

"Hah! You and me both, I guess. Still… One does wonder how someone of the infamous Chroma House landed in here. You must've been pretty naughty and poked your head somewhere you shouldn't have."

Ray stopped bouncing his ball against the wall of his cell before sitting upright, swinging his legs over the side of his bed and facing Dante fully. "Well… that's something I'd consider a debatable topic. I was definitely poking my head around, but I wasn't looking for anything in particular."

The faunus straightened out the collar of his shirt before interlocking his fingers.

"As luck would have it, I happened to stumble onto a base run by our shared captors." Ray continued, letting off a small sigh as his tail curled round and partly hung off his bed. "Lo and behold, they arrested me on suspicion of me being a 'spy' and 'trespassing on military grounds'. As if they had signs warning me about the place."

"Now why would you be investigating a place like that? Black sheep of the family means you're on your lonesome as far as anyone's concerned. Makes you easier to arrest. Or…" Dante quickly swiped his hands across his neck, "Your family's more of the private type. Even for a black sheep of the family, you'd still keep to that aesthetic. So what kind of venture is Ray Chroma 'personally' undertaking, I wonder?"

Ray pulled his hands back to lean against his mattress, one of his cat ears flicking idly on his head. "I definitely wasn't looking for a secret Atlas base, I can promise you that now. I don't care what they're doing out in the middle of nowhere."

He crossed his legs after that comment, making himself comfortable before inhaling silently.

"That said, I broke away from the family tradition to follow the path of exploring the world. It's one thing reading about it in centuries-old books, but it's another entirely to actually see it for myself. Keeps me occupied and boredom-free, unlike this place."

"Really now?"

Guess he doesn't have a big mouth… He knows I'm onto him, even if just a little bit. Still… A military base? He likely wouldn't have gotten close unless he's searching for something. The Chroma family is infamously secretive, and nobody from the family would've put themselves out like that.

~This one does have quite a bit to hide. He's definitely trying to sidestep you. I can feel his innermost anxiety…~

If he's got something to hide, he's got something to hide. Still, I am curious…

Dante and Ray's eyes quickly jolted towards the opening door, Melia walking back in.

"We're ready for you now."

"What's this guy's deal?" Dante asked, "He's been giving me lovey dovey eyes the whole time."

The Inquisitor smirked, "I did ask, but they weren't too keen to answer me. They only delegated that his case would be handled tomorrow."

"I've been here for three days, I've heard that excuse four times already." Ray stated, though his tone sounded far more formal while addressing Melia. "Get me a lawyer today, or I'm leaving by force."

"I wouldn't advise that, Mr. Chroma. If a manhunt is issued in regards to you… Well… As unfortunate as this is for me to admit, they won't be bringing you in for a trial next time." Melia explained as she looked at the cat Faunus with a stern glance, "That being said, escape would be impossible without us taking note at the very least."

"I should hope so too." the faunus commented, returning back to his previous demeanor and smirking in the process. "Figures that your guards aren't just the prison watch and are more the prison do-something-about-it. You'll bore me if you don't put a little effort in."

"In that case…"

The woman looked to Dante, who sighed as he stood up, the wall of blue light coming down to let him out.

"Chroma." The young devil spoke without so much as turning his head back, "Don't go staring into Dark places too long. You might just get swallowed up."

"That's why I enjoy it, Dante." The boy responded in an equal tone. "Have fun at your trial. Don't be surprised if it's rigged against you."

"You kidding? I already know this shit's been rigged." He shrugged as he waved goodbye with his shackled hands, following Melia out.

~You think he's seen them?~

*You mean one of those creatures you call Dark Entities?*

^Arrested for snooping around a base? It's suspicious at best. To me it sounds like he was placed here to be kept out of the way.^

That was my thinking too. Besides, if he did have a run in with a Dark Entity, we would have been able to sense their stink on him.

~So? What do you wanna do?~

…

…

I'll figure that out later after this.

The two walked down the corridor in silence for a good minute or so until Melia spoke up.

"General Ironwood isn't present, so the odds will be quite stacked against you."

"I can handle this." Dante affirmed.

"Can you really handle this? Or is it just bluster on your part?"

"Like I said before, this wouldn't be the first time something like this happened. I'm not as worried though, since they're smaller fish by comparison."

"I see…"

She stopped suddenly in front of a set of double doors, two guards standing guard at opposite ends.

"Are you prepared, Dante Aetherveil?"

"Ready's my middle name."

---

He stepped through the doors first, Melia following behind him as they entered the huge chamber. Dante however was the only to continue forward, stepping into a booth and sitting down.

Looking up, he could barely make out the faces of the eight Council members since the lights in the room were shining down on him. But there was one face he could make out. An elderly man with short white hair, and stubble instead of a full on beard. He was dressed more or less the same as Melia, except he didn't wear an officer's cap, and his gloves were white.

He was staring a little too hard at Dante with those steel colored eyes.

"Dante Aetherveil?" He called out.

"Yes dear?"

The man assumed to be Pycelle growled, "I'd advise you against any belligerent verbiage, mr. Aetherveil."

"Sure thing, boss." Dante sighed, "So? What am I here for?"

"First and foremost, you are Dante Aetherveil, correct? Previously associated with Beacon Academy?" One of the Council members asked.

"The one and only."

"The court may now proceed in its full capacity." Another member spoke, "Mr. Aetherveil, you have been brought forth today accused of three total charges. Intention to cause harm to the people of Remnant, possession of illegal weaponry, and charges of murder. How do you plead?"

"Uh, not guilty, obviously." Dante immediately replied.

"First and foremost, reports have come in of you utilizing a powerful and extremely dangerous weapon. One that was created in the weapon forges at Beacon Academy. Do you deny this?"

"Nope. I built it."

"Are you still in possession of this weapon?"

"Unfortunately after an extremely perilous battle in the wilderness of Anima, it finally broke. Seeing as maintenance for it was a pain in the ass, well… I scrapped it. New sword I got is a lot better. Less complicated to maintain and just better overall."

"Speaking of extremely perilous situations… Reports speak of you being partnered with a Faunus." One of the female Council members spoke, "A strange fox Faunus with white hair by the name of Inuba Kitsukami."

Dante dropped whatever smile he had, and looked over all the council members with a stern glare.

"It is said that unlike the average Faunus, she possesses both fox ear appendages and… nine fox tails…" One of the members spoke, almost startled by what they read as the collective whispered amongst each other.

"Are you going anywhere with this or are you set on boring me to sleep?"

"Mr. Aetherveil… You mentioned an extremely perilous event that took place sometime around a month ago in Anima, yes?" One of the council members asked, "One of our stations captured images of an irregular event that can only be described as orbital bombardment. And one of our telescopes captured not only this strange mass near orbit… but this… creature as well."

Some of the council members gasped once they saw the images on screen.

They were images of a beast. Images of the Nine Tailed Divine Beat that Inuba almost became. A Divine Beast, that if not tended to, would have burned the planet.

They're trying to drag her into this… No…

Dante glared at Pycelle, fists clenched underneath the multiple layers of cuffs.

He IS.

"Is this… creature that's since disappeared with the mass in orbit, Inuba Kitsukami?"

"No. That was me." Dante immediately and blatantly lied.

"Do you have proof of this?" Pycelle asked, smirking with that foolish grin on his face.

It was going to be difficult considering all six of the cuffs were heavily restricting his Aura, but he could manage, if anything, to make some shapes.

The young devil's platinum Aura flared around his body, ethereal fox ears appearing atop his head, along with nine ethereal platinum fox tails that steadily whipped about. Those appendages soon flickered out of existence, Dante exhaling sharply from the strain.

"All me. Things got… very much out of control. As a last resort, I called upon an otherworldly power. It responded. And just like that I snuffed out whatever menace was hiding on that rock. Inuba? She wasn't even there. I left her behind on account of injury by protecting me." The teen looked back up at Pycelle, "That proof enough, chuckle brother?"

"Mr. Aetherveil, if that truly was you that rained fire down from the skies, how do we know such a thing will never happen again?" Pycelle asked, looking to the other Council members.

They whispered amongst each other in concern, the old rat hiding his contemptuous smile behind his folded hands.

"Because as I said, that was a power I called upon and has since vanished. My… connection was severed when suffering critical injuries."

"There have been rumors that described you as an immortal warrior."

"Simply that. Rumors. Frankly, I almost lost my life nearly two months ago in that struggle."

It was hard to say it. Dante never blamed Inuba for what happened. He never even had a sliver of a thought to do so. Even so, saying that "he nearly lost his life" made it sound so… hypocritical, even if he spoke half truths with these fools.

"Look… I can tell you all I want about how that'll never happen again. Some of you might be inclined to believe me, because in spite of the numerous suffocating rumors about me, I have a good reputation amongst the people. Rightfully earned, mind you, because unlike a majority of Huntsmen and Huntresses out there, I don't do what I do for the money or for the fame."

They seemed… less tense. Pycelle of course was squeezing his hands together as his eyes darted around, realizing he was losing ground.

"You didn't ask for me to be here, doing what I do. I didn't ask to be here. But here we are. While I'm here, I will continue helping others in need and protect the lives of those important to me." Dante argued, "I may not be 'Mr. By-the-Book'... but you can't deny I get more results than the majority do."

"What are you getting at, Mr. Aetherveil?" One of the members asked.

"What I'm saying... is that we don't have to be enemies. We don't have to be friends either and invite each other over for tea or dinner. I'll go along with your set of rules without question so long as you don't try to slander me out of fear."

"W-What are you-?!"

"Come on!" Dante scoffed, spinning around once before he faced the Council members again, "You all know as well as I do that few of you believe in the bad rumors about me. The rest of you are here because you're afraid of those rumors. But when you read all the testimonies of the people Avery Davis gathered while tailing me, you'll start seeing a few contradictions. Not to mention…"

The devil raised up his shackled hands, grunting as he steadily broke all six one by one, startling the Council members until he raised his hands up in a surrendering manner, steadily placing them on the table to ease their fear.

"I could have escaped a long time ago if I wanted to. Hell, if I decided to, I wouldn't even be here. I'd be out there with not a care in the World. I could have killed the people trying to apprehend me, but I didn't. I could do all of you harm if I wanted to right now, and frankly, there'd be no one here able to stop me." The teen said as he leaned forward, "But I didn't. Why? Because I'm not the animal those rumors make me out to be. Instead, I decided to play by your rules and do things your way. I decided to do the hard thing rather than take the easy way out."

The members, who stood up to flee, took their seats. From the corner of his eye, Dante could see that Melia had her hands hovering over her dual blades, but soon after placed them behind her back.

Three of the Council members that were likely on Pycelle's side looked away from the man, and instead looked to their fellow members, nodding in silent agreeance.

"T-There is still one matter to go over, mr. Aetherveil."

"The murder charge." The teen nodded his head, "Jonathan Friede, I presume?"

"Y-Yes… How did-?"

"It was the only logical conclusion, seeing as I've haven't murdered anyone. Friede was the only one I was ever accused of murdering by the people of the city, in which the presiding mayor, Maria Friede, cleared me of wrongdoing based on the evidence." Dante explained, "As I told her, I was too far away from the scene of the crime, and surveillance footage proved I didn't leave my hotel room that night after my… justified altercation with Jonathan Friede."

Pycelle looked tense, tapping his finger against the back of his hand. He looked like he was holding back a scream.

Or an incredibly painful shit. Dante couldn't tell at this point.

"Excuse me Council Members." Melia spoke as she stepped forward, "We've received word that two individuals have stepped forward to testify on mr. Aetherveil's behalf."

"W-Who?!" Pycelle roared, jumping out of his seat.

"Nira Ezdeil, and one other she declared as a witness."

Dante's eyes went wide upon hearing that name, watching as the doors opened.

Through it stepped a short, small, figure, her black attire almost blending in with the darkness of the room.

5 feet tall, black boots, black short-shorts, a black, sleek coat with a low tail that reached the backs of her shins… Long black hair that reached her mid-back, and luminescent lime green eyes that scanned the room steadily, glancing at Dante briefly before she focused her eyes on the Council Members. Since she was small, her features were very much on the lithe side of things with mild curvature to her hips and small chest, but her legs were seemingly her best feature with how she showed them off.

No doubt about it… Nira Ezdeil was currently present.

The Council members looked almost as afraid of her as they were of Dante a few moments ago. Her very presence commanded a totally eerie silence throughout the room, one which even stilled the rage of Pycelle.

"S-Class Huntress, Nira Ezdeil… W-We didn't expect you to arrive."

S-Class?!

…

Dante felt his breath still a little before he quirked his eyebrows and looked back at the members seated above.

"I was asked on behalf of Avery Davis to appear with the evidence he collected. As you all know, his assistance has been instrumental in evidence gathering for cases in the past. Here I have both written testimonies documented through interviews with many locals from Vale to, as of most recent, Argus. Included are additional video recordings of the interviews." She calmly spoke, holding up a black drive, "Oh. I also brought a witness."

The devil turned around again to the sound of heels clacking against the black marble floor, seeing someone he did not expect in the slightest.

Light brown hair that flowed down to her waist, her long bangs draping over her shoulders. Her fair skin almost shined under the light in the room, her emerald green eyes sparkling almost like gemstones as she made her approach. Her beautiful figure was enveloped in a deep blue dress with shoulder straps, a thin fabric jacket covering her with the sleeves just below her elbows. A white lily flower was tucked away on her left ear.

"Maria Friede. Current Mayor of Ardien City, located near the coast of Sanus before crossing the ocean to Anima." Nira introduced.

"Ms. Friede… Normally we would welcome your return to the Atlas, but given the current circumstances-"

"I'm not here for trivial formalities." She spoke bluntly, "I heard you arrested my city's savior on false pretenses. Mr. Avery Davis reached out to me and had me brought here to testify on Mr. Aetherveil's behalf, seeing as he predicted some people in Atlas would potentially bring forth false charges concerning my brother's death."

"Y-Yes… Your brother…"

"I'll be frank with you, esteemed members of the Atlesian Council. Dante Aetherveil and my brother Jonathan did indeed fight each other within the city walls. But… It was only after Mr. Aetherveil discovered that my brother was capturing those of the Faunus persuasion and… horrifically torturing them and using those lives as ritual sacrifice." She gulped, her memory of finding the dungeon still sickening to this day, "My brother made the mistake of attempting to do the same with Mr. Aetherveil's partner. After a… short battle, I apprehended my brother, who was discovered dead in his cell around dawn."

"And? How did you clear Mr. Aetherveil?"

"With what the evidence provided, of course." Maria almost scoffed, unimpressed with the whole ordeal, "Dante Aetherveil did not demonstrate any electrical or lightning based abilities during his battle with my brother and his soldiers and from what reports we heard before his arrival. When we checked security footage, he didn't so much as move from his hotel room after the confrontation, only leaving to have coffee at a cafe near his room. When I spoke to him that morning, he expressed his condolences, but like myself, was not overly burdened by my brother's passing."

Cold… I guess she got tougher when I last saw her a year ago.

"Your response is…"

"Unsettling. That's understandable." She immediately replied, "But… it doesn't change the fact that the good, sweet brother I thought I knew turned out to be a terrible butcher of people. We were all deceived… and frankly, every time I revisit the memory of that night and the morning that came, I'm greatly upset by my failure to notice. I have no sympathy or remorse for such a cruel individual, regardless if they are my kin, or not. That being said…"

She stepped forward, making sure the council members could see her and hear her clearly. Especially the old man that seemed like he was going to pass out from the stress at any moment of having the tables turned.

That, or he needed to poop. Dante still couldn't quite tell.

"Mr. Aetherveil was cleared of any and all wrongdoings that he was accused of. And quite frankly, the rumors of his misdeeds are unfounded and completely slanderous." The girl spoke, glaring specifically at Pycelle for a moment before her eyes scanned over the members again, "The fact that he was brought forth to stand trial based on slanderous rumors is unsurprisingly a failure on your part. I would ask that you all manage your future investigations with more intelligence and tact."

She's speaking to them like they're children…

"I second that." Nira spoke up as she gave the Council a stern stare with crossed arms, "Allowing this to happen in the first place is insulting to those of us that do good work outside the Kingdoms protecting the people of Remnant. Dante Aetherveil is no exception; his excellent conduct interacting with civilians and those that hired him, let alone his superb results, speak for him very clearly. As such…" she paused, holding up a letter, "By my demand and by written demand of Sykira Areândus… we demand the immediate release of Dante Aetherveil, and that all his slanderous charges be immediately dropped."

The other one must be an S-Class Huntress like Nira. Still… S-Class… Ms. Goodwitch touched on that specific class of Huntsmen and Huntresses before when I asked what's the highest achievable rank. She never managed to explain what privileges came with the rank and title… I guess they have some serious influence on judicial and political matters, especially in larger groups.

One of the council members, an older gentleman with glass sighed as he pinched the bridge of his nose.

"It would seem we've made quite the… egregious mistake, mr. Aetherveil." The man spoke, lifting his head as he adjusted his glasses, "Unfortunately, accurate information gathering outside of our Kingdom has been exceedingly difficult since the CCT in Vale was taken offline."

"It would seem we were all led astray with fairy tales instead of genuine facts and evidence." A woman with a darker skin complexion spoke up, both her and the man with glasses glaring at Pycelle, "In any event… aside from the alleged charges which brought forth no further evidence, two S-Class Huntresses of esteemed value and trust have stepped forward to vouch for this young man and his innocence. I move to immediately have all charges dropped and for Mr. Aetherveil to be released."

"Seconded." The older man with glasses spoke.

All around the chamber, the other Council members steadily agreed, Pycelle bursting from his seat as he made to leave the chambers.

"By unanimous decision of the Council, and at the behest of two S-Class Huntresses, you have been cleared of all charges Mr. Aetherveil. We apologize greatly for this gross misunderstanding."

"It wouldn't be the first time, members of the Council." Dante shrugged, "I'm just too unorthodox. My ideas and strategies are… unusual to the majority of people. I only ask that in the future all pieces of evidence be examined completely before making a decision. It's crucial we avoid misunderstandings in these difficult times and work together effectively."

"Well said, mr. Aetherveil. It's in our hopes and in all of our best interests to work together in order to hold back the tide." The older man with glasses spoke, "That being said, please keep our Kingdom's laws in mind and avoid unnecessary brawls in the future."

"Right… Sorry…"

"You're free to go."

The young devil nodded, grabbing hold of the shackles he broke off and carried them out with him as he walked alongside Nira and Maria. He felt a little nauseous, and a sudden warmth in his forehead.

Guys, cool it in there. I know you three were losing your shit hearing all that nonsense, but relax, we're outta there.

~I know that, but… If they weren't gonna let you go… Well… Let's just say there'd be a fresh coat of "red" paint in that chamber…~

And that's why I'm saying take it easy. We're outta there. They know better now than to bring me in on hearsay.

*But it's still preposterous! My Kingdom existed millennia ago and we still had far better judicial proceedings! Especially during my reign!*

Times have changed Navâra. People aren't as… open and understanding as you and a lot of people were back then. Biases will unfortunately continue to exist. The only thing we can do is stand against those biases and right those wrongs.

*Yes, but… It's quite painful to see them treat you like that.*

Nothing we haven't seen before. It's fine.

^To think a warrior of your caliber would be treated in such a way…^

It's only natural that people are scared of what they don't understand. Just… take a break for a while guys. Chill out in my Inner World.

Dante's mental conversation with his Blades was pulled away by a sigh from Maria Friede, the three now out of the room and in an empty area of the building.

"To think I was foolish enough to believe things changed all that much…" she spoke.

"Right, I almost forgot… Your family was from Atlas, right?" Dante asked.

"That's right. We couldn't quite stand the stuffy bureaucracy any longer, so my mother and father decided to build their city on the coast of Sanus." Maria explained, "Thankfully they succeeded."

"Thankfully. How have you been, Maria?"

"Better than when we last met, Dante." The girl smiled.

"Sorry you got dragged into this. Frankly, I wasn't expecting to see you here."

"I didn't expect to be here either, but… Mr. Davis was quite insistent on the idea they would potentially use my brother's death as an excuse to pin a crime on you. Seeing as you were instrumental in exposing my brother's… horrific crimes against our people, I couldn't simply leave my city's savior to be unjustly strung up by the bureaucracy of this Kingdom."

"Speaking of, you need to be more cautious." Nira spoke up as she crossed her arms, somehow appearing stern despite her short disposition, "You're strong, and I know you're a lot smarter than you let on, but this is Atlas, not the wilderness."

"You think I don't know that?" Dante replied as he slung his trophy handcuffs over his shoulder, "Problem is that I knew they wanted to bring me in on bullhsit. That aside… I wasn't going to let my friends and family get involved in that nonsense either, and get dragged down with me in case things didn't go smoothly. You can come at me all you want… but if you go after anyone I care about… You may as well dig your own grave, bury yourself in, and pray you die before I find you."

Nira smirked as her luminescent like green eyes narrowed on him full of approval, "As a man who makes it a policy to never abandon his allies, I expected that kind of response. But you still need to be careful while here in Atlas."

"She's absolutely right." Maria spoke up, "In Mantle, you could quite easily get away with a few things here and there, even with the security measures in place. But the walls and streets In Atlas quite literally have eyes and ears. The only safe place away from prying eyes would be your own home really."

"So be sneakier. Easily done."

Maria sighed, "I see that for all your growth, you didn't quite grow smarter."

"Am I gonna be the subject of tall person jokes now?" The devil asked.

The girl shrugged, "Just try to stay out of trouble as best as you can, Dante. It won't be so simple to avoid here."

"I got it already. Go back to your puppy dog Knight Conner, so that he doesn't mope around without you."

Maria turned to give the devil a quirk of her eyebrow before she turned back around and walked towards the exit.

"I'm glad we managed to make it in time." Nira spoke up, walking ahead of Dante, "Just please take our warnings to heart."

"Sure thing, Ms. S-Class Huntress Nira." Dante saluted.

"I'm being serious."

"So am I. Relax. With all the investigating you've done with Davis, you should know by now that I'm not gonna get caught doing something naughty unless I wanna get caught."

"I suppose. But don't rely on my status as an S-Class Huntress if you get into trouble."

"I got it already. What are you, my mom?"

"I may as well be if we meet again like this."

"Fucking hope not…" Dante muttered, "Speaking of your status, you didn't mention you were an S-Class Huntress."

"Like you, I don't really care about titles or flaunting my status. It's just… useful to have is all."

"Fair enough." The young devil sighed.

"We'll have to talk more some other time. I have to escort Ms. Friede home."

"Who's gonna protect your employer?"

"I have somebody else as capable as myself protecting him."

"Sykira Areândus, right? Never heard of her."

"Members of our rank tend to avoid the public eye, save for two of the nine. It's more efficient that way. The less the general public knows of us, the easier it is to conduct our work."

"Right… I guess I'll be seeing you around then. Come over next time. Kianna will be happy if you come over to play with her."

"She will?!" Nira's head perked up with some excitement to her tone.

But she immediately restrained herself and cleared her throat, lowering her voice again. It may have pitched in her excitement.

"I'll be taking my leave."

The teen nodded, looking over his shoulder to see Melia Ardâin approaching him.

"On your own, I imagined you'd have a 73% chance of leaving these chambers, either with rational argument or with threats. Instead, you used both, but with a lesser degree of threatening the Council members."

"I had it at 80%, but sure. That being said…" the devil spun on his heels to face Melia, hand on his hip as he kept his cuffs slung over his shoulders, "You warned Davis, didn't you?"

"Who? Me?"

"Who else?" The teen scoffed, "Two meetings with the man and I know this. He can make accurate predictions, but given his profession and how he operates, Davis wouldn't have acted so quickly unless he had actionable intel. You're with the Inquisitors, but you've had a keen interest in me. Playful as you were, you gave me a few hints and helped me out."

She hummed as she smiled with amusement, "Yes, I did warn Avery Davis ahead of time by means of a messenger just as Pycelle made his final preparations to issue a warrant for you." The Inquisitor spoke as she approached a window, standing in front of it as she watched airships fly by, "I never quite took those rumors too seriously. At the very least, the ones of you being an evil bastard."

"And? What exactly do you believe?"

"People speak of you as some savior descended from the Heavens to set this World right. Others, a terrifying Demon of Vengeance that roams this World to punish the truly wicked and unjust. If one thing has been made clear… it is that you are not a human. Or at the very least, not a normal one. Frankly… that doesn't matter to me in the slightest."

Her gloved hand touched the window, fingertips gently pressed against the glass.

"What does matter… is what those of us with power do… And them."

"The people."

Melia nodded. "Yes, the people. Our petty struggles amongst Kingdoms, our insufferable wars over trivial things… They're merely children's games. While we fight amongst ourselves, the real enemy is out there steadily slaughtering the people, all while we steadily choke on our own hypocrisy and rage."

Melia pressed off the glass, turning to face the young devil. Even now she was imposing with her steady calmness, standing face to face with Dante.

"I don't care if you're a savior from the Heavens or a Demon from the Abyss. I don't care if you are a human or a Faunus. What I care about is whether or not there will be a future for all with what's to come."

"Hmph… I guess you and I do have some common ground after all…" Dante said as he rubbed the back of his head, "I don't think your superior would be too happy to know that."

"He won't. But I don't need his approval. If anything… I think it's about time we incorporated some changes to our structure."

…

…

What is she planning, I wonder?

---

"So you gonna do anything about that guy?"

"That guy?" Melia asked as she and Dante exited the courthouse.

"Ray Chroma."

"Like I said, they had no interest in taking his case at the moment."

"More like they're deliberately putting his case off."

"Yes, but unfortunately, neither of us have the power to do anything about it at the moment. All I can do is ask."

"Think Ironwood can do something about it if I ask him?" Dante asked at the bottom of the stone stairs, leaning on the stone railing at the bottom.

Melia tilted her head briefly to ponder, "Aside from having two seats on the council, if he convinces them that mr. Chroma can be a reliable asset, he could very much free him."

Dante hummed, pushing himself off the railing, standing in front of the Inquisitor.

"If I recall correctly… There used to be five Noble Houses in Remnant that all resided in Atlas. Now there's four since the Friede family packed up and left. In order of most powerful and most wealthy is The Schnee Family, The Geist Family, The Ardâin Family, and The Chroma Family."

"If you're suggesting I have pull because of my family name, I do not. If I recall, a few of our Inquisitors compared me to Specialist Schnee given our… circumstances."

"Ah… So like Winter, you pretty much cut ties with your family."

"William and I lost our parents when they assisted with leading an excursion to the Hellas Mountains to eradicate some particularly powerful Grimm. The Grimm were eliminated at the cost of the squadron." Melia explained as her eyes shifted towards some mountain peaks in the distance, the young woman sighing, "Our Aunt and Uncle would then lead our House in their stead. Unfortunately, they have not been… favorable towards myself or William."

"Your goody-two-shoes brother?"

She smirked, turning back to Dante.

"Do you know what House Ardâin's claim to fame is, Mr. Aetherveil?"

"Uh… Aside from the Basic Training facilities you've established across Remnant to aid Kingdoms in training soldiers, your whole family is made up of war-heroes. In fact, knowing who you are now, I read somewhere once that your grandmother fought aside Weiss' grandfather, Nicholas Schnee. For her bravery and her ability, Nicholas Schnee decreed your grandmother a noble and created House Ardâin."

"While we are famed in history as heroes of war against Grimm, and unfortunately other Kingdoms, our greatest claim to fame is our Dual Wielding Style, Azure Knightess. A prerequisite to becoming the next Head of the Family for all Heirs or would-be Heirs is to master the Azure Knightess Style."

"Which you have."

"Indeed. William, however…" she sighed, "Even if he wasn't the next Heir in line like I was, he was deemed a failure and sorely looked down upon, so much so that he was thrown out. I didn't learn of this until I returned from Vacuo three years ago, and received a distressing message from my older brother, Xanther."

"You have another brother."

"Had." She emphasized, narrowing her eyes, "He passed sometime around when I returned."

"I'm guessing he was an outcast of the family too, considering you're the heir and you've got… Well, I was about to say those, but it'd be better to say 'her', right?"

She chuckled.

"Yes… She's quite… fiery at heart, but very much elegant and refined. She's been very helpful, and a good friend." Melia stated as she rested a hand on the pommel of one of her dual blades, "According to my mother, Dhîrga has been… something of a handful for previous Wielders. Apparently she somewhat… mellowed out when in my grandmother's hands."

"I imagine it's because your grandmother and your mother didn't treat her as just a tool."

Melia smirked once more.

"I've been thinking to myself recently… 'What would it be like to meet other Wielders? Would they be working together amicably? Or would those Wielders treat their blades like slaves?'. I'm thankful I've yet to see something like that."

"You say that as if such a thing is possible."

"Because it is." Dante solemnly spoke, "I've been around long enough to see the kinds of things people do with too much power. Our Blades?" Dante spoke, summoning Eclypse to his hand in Longsword form as he glanced her over, "What greater power can there be than our Blades?"

He swiped outwards gently, making his Blade disappear.

"I've had something of a theory in mind, ever since I discovered the existence of our Blades." Melia spoke as she walked towards a railing overlooking a large section of Atlas, "Thinking about your words and meshing them with my own thoughts… I can't help but imagine that the Blades, however many of them might exist, were placed here in the World of Remnant to aid us. Human, Faunus, it doesn't matter. Should you be worthy, then you shall wield a power greater than any in this World."

"There some kind of prophecy where that's written?"

"No… Only what I believe." The Inquisitor spoke as she turned around to face Dante, "My duty is to Mantle and Atlas. To the people. To those that live, think and feel. Any who threaten the kingdom, the people… are my true enemy."

"Well thankfully I didn't come here to threaten Atlas or Mantle."

"That much I discerned for myself."

As he said this, a silenced crack echoed and something impacted the side of Dante's head. Thankfully even now his Blades kept watch, a small hexagon of platinum Aura blocking a black, crystalline shard shaped into a bullet. Just like…

He toppled over intentionally, playing dead as he heard footsteps approach.

"Grand Inquisitor!" Melia shouted with disapproval.

Pycelle stepped from the shadows, holding some sort of pistol with a stretched, rectangular barrel.

"Step aside, Ardâin." The older man spoke as he approached, keeping his gun trained on the immobile Dante, "This thing… This Devil may have fooled everyone else with his lies, but not me! Now stand aside before he rises again!"

She stood still, glaring at her superior.

"You would stand with an enemy of the kingdom?!"

"He is not an enemy of the Kingdom! The Grimm and those that wish to steal our lives are the enemy!"

"Which is exactly what this Devil has come to do! You've seen it for yourself! You saw that monstrous form of his! How long until he begins stealing the people's very souls when they sleep?!"

"Are we so simple a people to judge others for what they appear like?! For what they can do?! Humanity has already made that mistake with those that are Faunus and both peoples paid heavy prices! Sir, if we fight amongst ourselves, and kill those we 'think' might be a threat, we're only serving the agenda of the enemy out there!"

"I won't ask again, Ardâin. Stand aside."

Her eyes narrowed, hands dangling at her sides as she bowed her head and exhaled.

"I suppose I won't ask either."

Without any lingering hesitation, Melia drew one of her dual blades with blinding speed and lashed it out, the segments breaking apart, all connected on a black wire running through the center of the segments. The segments wrapped around Pycelle's arm holding the gun, and when Melia quickly tugged, the segments blazed with dark blue flame and turned the Grand Inquisitor's hand to ash as his gun clattered to the ground.

Traces of blue flame flickered on the stump where his hand was, the older man screaming as he staggered back.

"Frankly speaking… I haven't quite agreed with how you were running things for some time now. And this… madness with Aetherveil… The resources you wasted attempting to frame him out of fear… THAT, is simply unacceptable. The young man has helped people not out of obligation but because he believed it was right. And he has been an inspiration to those living in fear. I won't let your madness kill a young man, or bring us all low."

Pycelle quickly reached down with his other hand, but soon found his body completely wrapped up, the segments digging deep into his flesh as he bled.

"Not only did you attempt to frame an innocent… but you also attempted to murder him without probable cause. Under my emergency powers as Special Inquisitor, I hereby relieve you of duty… and your life."

Pycelle gasped, but before he could so much as scream, dark blue flames overtook his vision, burning away his clothes and flesh in but three seconds, leaving only charred, blackened bones that soon crumbled into a pile of ash.

And a silver emblem that clattered to the ground, metallic pings echoing faintly in the secluded back exit.

Dante steadily pushed himself off the ground, dusting off his tattered, black, long sleeved shirt and his grey jeans, which had a few holes in them.

More importantly, he narrowed his eyes on Melia after he looked at the ash pile, giving her a stern stare.

"I know that look." She spoke, whipping her sword-whip back into its normal sword form, "No, I didn't set this up. I did however take advantage of the situation just now."

"Oh really?" Dante said, looking back to the ash pile.

"Everything I said was the truth. Including my thoughts about a 'change in management'. It just so happened this was the perfect occasion, since he attempted to murder an individual. Worse, he tried to murder you despite being a target of his investigation, and after you were just cleared. Inquisitors have special prosecution powers in situations such as these, and their judgement, whatever it may be so long as it's justified, won't be interfered with."

"And you think turning your superior into ash is gonna go over well with everyone else?" Dante asked, looking back at Melia.

"It won't matter if my actions fall under the scrutiny of others. I only did what I 'knew' was right." The Inquisitor spoke, repeatedly tossing up and catching the silver crest she picked up, "I didn't become an Inquisitor simply to prowl about like some sort of vile, secret police. With the path we were being led on by Pycelle, it wouldn't have been much longer until there would have been a call to disband us. From the first day I joined The Inquisitors, I vowed I would take charge one way or another. Pycelle's recent obsession with you, created by the man's own fear of you, provided the opportunity I needed."

"So what, you become Grand Inquisitor now?"

"Yes." Melia spoke as she caught the crest, removing her officer's cap and affixing the crest perfectly in the center, "Under my leadership, I intend to repair our tarnished reputation. Make the Inquisitors people to be respected once more, not feared as tyrants."

"I'm still not a fan of being a chess piece in a game I don't know is being played."

"That wasn't the case this time, mr. Aetherveil. Frankly, this was just dumb luck."

"Calculated, more like." Dante spoke up as he approached the woman, "You knew full well he'd never let me off that easy."

"A hunch. Nothing more. There was always a chance he could have let it go."

"Maybe…" Dante scoffed, "So… What's the plan now, Grand Inquisitor?"

"Now I explain Pycelle's treachery to the rest of our Branch. And since I'm in charge now…" Melia stretched out her hand to the young devil, "I can freely cooperate with both you and Ironwood to help the people of Mantle and Atlas. Dark times are descending upon us all. And the only way we can survive is through unity and trust in one another."

She hasn't lied a single time. I would've felt her anxiety, no matter how brief the flicker. No… I only feel her desire to do exactly as she said. I think I can place my trust in her.

He took her hand as the two gave each other a firm handshake.

Melia's firmness and strength was… pleasantly surprising.

"Should I arrange a transport for you?" The new Grand Inquisitor asked.

"Nah, I got it. I have my own way of getting about freely. That aside… We should meet to exchange information about our Blades when we have free time. You, your brother, and I."

"But of course. Safe travels mr. Aetherveil. And please… try not to stir up too much trouble while in our Kingdom."

"Sure sure." He waved off, moving down the steps as Melia walked back towards the courthouse, bringing up her scroll to likely call for a cleanup crew.

~She's dangerous, that woman. But she's powerful and competent. More importantly, it seems as though she wants to establish a working partnership.~

^It would certainly be to our benefit if Melia Ardâin and you remain as allies. Especially considering this is her territory in essence, and she knows more about this place than you do.^

*I too am in agreement! We have no doubt come to a dangerous place with individuals that wish to create schemes involving you and your allies. We already have one enemy to look out for, that demon Ogrânix. The question we need to ask ourselves is 'who else might be out there plotting', and the like.*

All very much true and accurate. We've got both Salem and Ogrânix to contend with in the shadows, but…

He shook his head. Dante didn't quite want to go down that path. Not yet.

Just as importantly, I want to learn more about what guys are. Not because I'm concerned or anything, but because I think we'll be stronger for it.

~Of course. But who's to say what else we might drudge up with our 'questions'?~

She had a point. Discovering how the Blades came about might unearth something totally new. Whether that would be good or bad was something that remained to be seen.

But for now, he needed to regroup with his allies and get a full grasp of the situation here in Atlas.

---

Dante walked along the marble pathways leading to the front entrance of the Atlesian Military headquarters, which upon doing some reading while walking, also housed Atlas Academy. Though from what he's heard and read, it didn't quite function as the other Academies did, and instead was more akin to a military school to churn out more soldiers.

He didn't really see the point of it, since they have their AK's, their Paladins, and their ships. Though it probably didn't hurt to have actual flesh and blood soldiers.

Frankly, the young devil was more surprised to see any greenery or flowers of any sort as he walked up to the entrance. He thought the place would be dull and boring all things considered, but…

A pleasant surprise can be found anywhere.

He continued onward, approaching a checkpoint with three soldiers posted. One of them was in a booth, while the other two stood guard on the opposite side of the rail.

"Halt. State your business." The booth soldier demanded.

"Dante Aetherveil, Huntsmen in Training. I'm here to meet with General Ironwood." The teen spoke as he brought up his Holographic display, flipping it around so the soldier could check his credentials.

"The General isn't seeing any visitors."

"I'm not here for a sightseeing trip. I've got valuable information that the General needs to hear."

"We get a lot of people saying that almost every other day."

"I'm not just anyone. I'm a survivor of Beacon Academy. How calm do you imagine the good General is gonna be when he hears you turned away someone that can prove valuable to the efforts of keeping everyone here in Atlas safe?"

The soldier exhaled sharply, raising a hand to the side of his helmet, likely to get in contact with someone.

"We have someone by the name of Dante Aetherveil at the front gate, claiming he has important information for General Ironwood. Yes, his credentials check out. Yes. Yes ma'am." He lowered his hand, using it to type in a code on his Holographic console as the gates opened up, "Head on through. Once inside, you'll be scanned and patted down for any weapons or objects of dangerous origin."

"Dude, do I look like I'm packing right now?" Dante motioned to his tattered clothes.

"You'd be surprised with the kinds of things we've found in places that they shouldn't be found in."

"Fair point." The teen sighed as he stepped on through the gate.

He would've opted for a change of clothes before his visit, but he thought it best to head over straight away. It's not so much that he was bothered by his clothes being torn, but it was more his shoes. He found it a bit annoying that the sole on his left shoe was flapping about like a broken flip flop.

The metal doors slid open, and immediately the decor was vastly different. It was dark with dimmed blue lights lighting the halls. A lot of it was just white and blue metal meshed together plainly. Once he was patted down and scanned, he was directed to take an elevator that would take him to the upper levels where Ironwood's office was.

He was glad he had Blades like Eclypse, Navâra and Sêrythîl. Since he could summon them at will, they were able to go undetected. So frankly speaking, there would never be a time he'd be going anywhere unarmed, thankfully.

~Think we're gonna get jumped?~

I don't think so. I only caught a bit of it, but… I'm pretty sure it was Winter Schnee that just cleared me for entry.

^This Winter… She is the elder sister of Weiss Schnee, correct? She doesn't seem to be the type to be disobedient. You're under the impression that this General might be somewhat unhinged. This could be a setup on his part.^

I can't deny the possibility, but Pycelle just tried that himself. As we saw, that didn't go over well. That, and Melia practically confirmed Ironwood isn't out to get us. If anything, he's practical. I'm certain he understands that having me as an ally is more beneficial rather than making an enemy of me.

~I agree. A Semblance as powerful as yours? Added with the fact you have us with you? It'd be stupidly unwise for anyone to get on your bad side.~

*I believe we can place our trust in the General for the time being. Though it may be in our best interest to be cautious. Remember, good Dante… Even the greatest of allies closest to you can turn away from you.*

Of course, he knew as much. Afterall…

He shook his head in the ascending elevator, whisking away thoughts and memories of the past.

That's all done and over with. And yet… the feeling is still bitter after all this time...

The transport came to a slow halt, and the doors slid open, prompting Dante to step out as he roamed the halls of metal and marble. Then, a pair of doors opened up, the teen standing completely still as he watched Ironwood, Winter and Penny step out.

"I swear if I have to sit through one more meeting like that…"

They made to turn towards some stairs, but Penny spotted the young devil from the corner of her eye and gasped, immediately rushing over.

"You're alright!" She pounced, giving him a bone crushing hug.

"You're..! Still very strong..!" He said in a strained voice.

The android's celebratory greeting caught Ironwood and Winter's attention, causing them to stop and look back.

"It's good to see you again, Mr. Dante. Or I suppose it's Mr. Aetherveil now. That aside, you look no worse for wear." The General spoke as he approached, cracking a rare smile.

"Speaking of, how did this happen?" Winter asked.

"They roughed me up a little before I got taken in." Dante explained as he was let go by Penny, "Other than that, things went over smoothly. I don't know if you found out, but… Grand Inquisitor Pycelle isn't in charge anymore."

"You didn't…"

"No, I didn't." The devil answered Winter, "Unfortunately, Pycelle took his loss like a sore loser and tried to assassinate me. Thankfully, Special Inquisitor Melia Ardâin intervened and… well, turned him into an ash pile."

"Ardâin… I see." Ironwood spoke up, "If I remember correctly, their determination of the next leader is by succession."

"Meaning Special Inquisitor Ardâin is now Grand Inquisitor." Winter added, "I suppose we'll have to congratulate her at some point. That aside…" she looked to Dante with a firm, questioning stare.

He knew immediately what her silent question was.

"If you didn't know, your Ace Ops took them in. If my assumption is right, they should be bringing them in at any moment now."

"What?!"

"They did mention apprehending a group of children and a veteran Huntsmen. I assume that it's Ruby Rose, Qrow, and the rest of your allies?"

Dante nodded.

Ironwood sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose.

"First and foremost, I'd like to apologize for not being able to stop Pycelle. I may have two Council seats, but…"

"He played on the other members' fear. There's not much you could have done about it in the first place. In the end, I'm still here and so are my friends." The teen waved off, "But was the roughness necessary with everyone else?"

"We've apprehended a great deal of smugglers, thieves and infiltrators attempting to make off with intelligence reports. We've had to be… stricter as of late." Winter explained, "Couldn't we also ask the same of you? While you didn't heavily injure our Operatives, you still went a bit too far."

"Without question. But you were about to take everybody into custody for no discernible or valid reason, aside from a ship assumed to be stolen at first glance." Dante reasoned, pausing briefly, "Okay, so we may have stolen the ship, but under emergency circumstances, we were subsequently given the ship and allowed to leave by one of your officers in Argus, Cordovin."

"Argus was attacked?!" Winter asked.

"Recently it suffered a massive Grimm Incursion, but… we worked with the Atlesian forces in Argus to repel the attack. I don't know of any casualties outside of a few downed ships. I'm guessing information and reports from other territories have been slow since the fall of the CCT in Beacon."

"Unfortunately we have." Ironwood explained, "We've been attempting to set up relays from here to Argus, but for obvious reasons we haven't quite finished yet."

"Understandable." Dante spoke, "There is… another matter I'd like to discuss with you privately."

"Of course. We'll-"

Before he finished, the elevator opened up, and through it stepped a small group of soldiers, with RWBY, JNR, and Qrow in tow. Inuba, Dawn, Noland, Ciel and Blaire escaped like he asked them to. Seeing as his mother Athyra, Maria and Pietro weren't here, they must be safe at Pietro's workshop in Mantle.

Weiss and Ruby stepped forward, with Dante practically leaping out of his seat as he approached the two. Winter gasped in surprise, quickly following behind as she took a moment to collect herself, returning to her usual stern demeanor.

"You have ten seconds to take those off before I start hurting you." She coldly told the guards.

It took them a moment, but glancing between Winter and Weiss, the guards finally understood the situation and began frantically removing the bolases from everyone's arms, while Ironwood watched with a smile.

"Sorry!"

"Please, let us help you!"

"Forgive us!"

The bolases fell to the floor one after another, giving off a purple glow and retracting the ropes before emitting a beep noise. Dante on the other hand simply ripped apart the cables on Ruby's hand, letting them fall.

"You okay?" He asked, looking her over once.

"Yeah, but what about you? What happened?"

"They roughed me up a little and tried to fix me up on false charges. But nothing too serious."

A few moments of the group catching up with Dante, and they followedIronwood, Winter and Penny into his office, the doors shutting behind them as the General took his seat at his desk.

"It… really is good to see all of you again."

"You know, our reception didn't really convey that. Let alone with Dante." Yang explained with crossed arms, "I mean really, a fake trial?"

"As I told Dante earlier, I sincerely regret how you were treated by my team and by the unfortunate circumstances that placed him in the courthouse."

"If it makes any of you feel better, the General vocated that he was against the whole thing." The young devil shrugged, "It was outside of his control. Not to mention… we did come in on a rogue ship. Sort of."

"With how things have been going, it raised some… red flags. We assumed the ship was stolen." Ironwood explained.

Ruby and some of the others laughed awkwardly.

Ironwood smiled, his shoulders moving a tiny bit with a silent chuckle. "Thankfully, mr. Aetherveil cleared up the situation for us a few moments ago."

Winter, meanwhile, didn't find the situation humorous, scolding Weiss.

"You stole an Atlas airship? Honestly, what were you all thinking!? You might've been shot down! How unbelievably irresponsib-"

Without another word, Weiss interrupted Winter by hugging her, the older sister returning the gesture with a sigh.

"I'm sorry I worried you. But with what the circumstances were, we did what we had to do."

"I… suppose I understand."

"I cannot believe that you allowed this to happen, you two." Winter spoke as she scolded both Dante and Qrow.

"We were desperate." The teen shrugged, "One way or another, we needed to get here."

"You try stopping these kids when they have their mind set on something. Speaking of which…" Qrow paused, looking to Ironwood, "We have some important information for you that's… confidential."

"Is it about the Relics?" Penny asked.

"Or perhaps the Winter Maiden?" Winter spoke after her.

Dante titled his head a little in confusion, "You guys know?"

Ironwood stood from his desk and retrieved the Relic of Knowledge from a drawer, making it grow to its normal size as he held it up.

"Did you really think you were the only one who got to work on a new plan after Beacon? WIth Ozpin gone, I needed my own team of people I could trust. So yes, I told them. The Ace-Ops too. Which is why I'm so glad you're here… with this." He waved his hand towards the Relic, "Until now, I believed it was impossible to truly turn the tide against Salem. Oz may have pushed her back and has kept victory out of her claws, but she will keep returning stronger and stronger… unless we destroy her."

He placed the Relic atop his desk, Ruby and Dante exchanging glances briefly.

"What about the Relic here in Atlas?" The devil asked.

"You mean the Staff of Creation? It's safe inside the Vault!" Penny replied.

"And the Winter Maiden?" Qrow asked.

"Secure and in stable condition." Winter assured.

"I know how this all looks. Recalling my military? The embargo? I probably don't seem the most trustworthy right now." Ironwood bluntly stated, "Looking at some of you, I can see you don't approve of some of my methods. But I needed to ensure Salem couldn't infiltrate Atlas. And I wanted my military here, protecting my people.

"But it's not protecting them! It's making everyone hate you!" Yang explained.

"It's a price I'm willing to pay." Ironwood reached over to a glowing panel of buttons on his desk and tapped a button that resembled a table emitting light from its surface, "Just as all of you have been entrusted with the knowledge of Salem's existence, I need you all to trust me. I have a plan."

Shutters came down outside the windows, darkening the room. A circle in the center of the floor bearing Atlas' emblem began to rise up, prompting Ruby and Dante to take a few steps back as Ironwood made his way over, the circle continuing to rise and transform into a sort of war table.

"Ozpin always believed that the best way to fight Salem was to do so in secret. Whether that was the right choice or not isn't for me to say, but right now, we find ourselves in need of a new approach."

Ironwood brought out a tiny remote and pressed a button, activating a hologram display of Amity Colosseum, which hovered above the table.

"Amity Colosseum… You managed to retrieve it." Dante noted.

"Indeed. After Beacon fell and everyone on Remnant lost contact with one another, I knew our current system was outdated. Since Amity was built to bring our nations together, it will serve that purpose once again."

"Heh… So you're gonna turn Amity Coliseum into a satellite and raise it into the atmosphere." Dante explained with a quirked brow as he smiled with intrigue.

"Yes. By launching the tower high into the atmosphere, we can keep it out of reach of the Grimm and maintain global communications even if we were to lose another tower from any of the other Kingdoms." Winter explained.

"That's great and all, but James... You don't need the entire military for this." Qrow stated.

"I will for when I finally tell the people about Salem." Ironwood explained, "Panic will be inevitable, and panic brings Grimm. With a bit more time to prepare, I'll use Amity Tower to spread the message to all of Remnant.

"But everything will fall apart! Grimm will be everywhere!" Weiss said,

"Yes, but with the many outposts we've established in the last few months, and with the ships we constructed, we're prepared to assist." Winter replied.

"Trying to hide the truth from the world will eventually kill us all." Ironwood explained further, the hologram disappearing as the table receded into the floor, the shutters pulling away from the windows, "That's why we can't keep fighting this war in secret anymore."

"Oz spent his whole life, many lives, keeping this secret."

"I know. But since Beacon, things have changed." The General told the veteran Huntsmen as he passed by Oscar, "But without him here to guide us, all I can do is use my best judgment."

Hearing that made Oscar shift about uncomfortably, and as if sensing something, Ironwood stopped to look back at the once farm boy.

"Actually, Oz isn't completely gone." He managed to pipe up.

Ironwood's eyes perked up, "Oz? I'm so glad you're here. I didn't think you-"

Oscar put his hands up and interrupted Ironwood, as the latter crouched to Oscar's level.

"Not quite. He's kind of, um, gone... at the moment."

Ironwood's smile faded, "That's not normal. How did he-?"

"We don't know." Dante quickly offered, prompting Ironwood, Qrow, Oscar and Ruby to look at him, "We were in a train crash in transit from Mistral to Argus, and ever since, well… Ozpin kind of faded out."

"That's the worst news yet." The General said, rising to his feet, "Did you learn anything from him about the Relics before..?"

"He explained that the lamp can only answer three questions every 100 years. Unfortunately, all the questions were used up already."

"Right…" Ironwood softly spoke as he walked back behind his desk and stared out the window, "Ozpin told us that too, once upon a time. At least we have you, Oscar. You're safe here in Atlas. Maybe together we can figure out how to bring Ozpin back."

"Thank you, sir." Oscar said, standing at attention, "I mean, uh, general. Uh, Ironwood?"

Ironwood smiled, picking up the Relic of Knowledge as he walked over to Dante and offered it to him.

"Really? You're giving this back to us?" Dante asked.

"With everything that's happened today, I don't want you to think I'm keeping anything from you, especially something as important as this. For the time being, I think it's safest with the people who brought it here." He handed off the Relic.

"Thank you." The Relic shrunk in Dante's hand as he hooked it through one of the loops on his jeans.

"We have to work together if we're to fight Salem and win. Now, if you're all on board…

"Just tell us how we can help." Ruby offered.

"Good, because getting the Amity Tower ready to launch won't be easy. But first, I think we need to get your weapons and gear up to our standards. And after such a journey, you can certainly use some rest."

"Remember, this is Atlas. While assisting the military, we will provide you with the best equipment our scientists can devise." Winter added.

Upon the end of the meeting, everyone began filtering out of Ironwood's office, the group encountering the Ace-Ops outside. They were chattering amongst each other; friendlier banter, apologies… They were getting along nicely.

Dante waited for Ironwood and Qrow to finish their conversation, eventually leaving just the two of them in his office.

"Not joining the tour?"

"I'll catch up afterwards. We have… that conversation to tend to." Dante explained as he pulled up one of the chairs to Ironwood's desk.

"Alright then." The General spoke, as he took his seat, "Let's have that talk."

---

Ironwood had been leaned forward, hands folded with a focused stare.

"Everything you just said… Are you certain about it?"

"In a manner of speaking." Dante tilted his head.

"Mr. Aetherveil..."

"Look, I don't exactly know what he's up to this time. The story I just told you is a retelling of what happened last time I fought him and defeated him." Dante explained, "Compared to now… I'm absolutely certain he's not gonna approach things like he did the last time. Ogrânix might not be one for strategy, but we can definitely count on him keeping us occupied for the time being until he's ready."

The General leaned back in chair, "Is there a risk of invasion?"

"None. He doesn't have anywhere near the numbers he used to. That much I ascertained when I found his hideout."

"Any estimates you can give me of their forces?"

"Less than 100 Lesser Dark Entities, probably around 20 Soldiers, definitely less than five Knights, probably a Lord or two. Or maybe even none." The devil shrugged, "Lords are hard to come by in this day and age. Let alone the type that want to cause mayhem and devastation."

"Why is that?"

"My Uncle, a King Class and ruler of their Origin World reined in a vast majority of the Lords for the sake of peace. As you probably guessed, Ogrânix doesn't share my Uncle's vision."

"Fewer forces than I imagined, and from your story and your current estimation, we don't have to worry about a potential invasion." Ironwood summarized, "But what could his goal be?"

"Now that he knows I'm here, vengeance. And, well, world domination. But he's not strong like he used to be, and he's not gonna take the risk of challenging me head on unless he regains some semblance of his previous strength."

"And how would he go about that?" Ironwood asked.

"Normally he'd have gotten his minions to gather up blood sacrifices from humans, but…"

"Gathering has been irregular I assume?"

"Yeah. I think he realized Grimm are a better resource than humans. Or, you know, Faunus too."

"He was absorbing Grimm Essence?" Ironwood asked, shocked but mildly intrigued, "I didn't think such a thing was possible…"

"When you think about it, it's brilliant on his part. We don't know what exactly Grimm are made of; whether it's just dust, sludge… or maybe even pure, unbridled Evil Essence, the fact remains that if he abandoned gathering blood in favor of Grimm Essence, it has to be a better source of energy. It's a disturbing thing for me to say, but he might actually be doing us a favor by killing Grimm outside of the Kingdom."

"But if he gathers enough Essence and regains his strength, he'll certainly attack Atlas and Mantle."

"Without question." Dante lightly chuckled.

"And there's no way to preemptively strike him while he's still gathering strength?" The General asked, folding his hands together again.

"I don't believe so. For all we know, he could have set himself right outside the border, or far too deep underground for us to dig. He could even be using a group of Dark Mages to have a rift opened up into a separate dimension." Dante shrugged, "Kind of like how the Relics are locked behind Vaults in a separated dimension, only to be opened by a Maiden."

"If he is moving forward with his Mage strategy, I assume you'd have to find one to unlock a rift."

"Even if he used Dark Mages, they'd die first before opening the rift. But, thankfully my partner Inuba has expertise in the field along with my sister, Dawn. If there are Dark Mages and we kill them, they can draw out their Essence and use it as a sort of key."

Ironwood was tapping his fingers together, sitting up straight as he got out of his seat moments later and walked towards a window, staring out it.

"Could Ogrânix be simply moving around constantly, making it all the harder for us to pinpoint him?" The General asked.

"Could be." The teen nodded his head as he stood next to Ironwood, looking out the window with him, "If there was an award for best hide-and-seeker, that asshole would have definitely won that award for all eternity. It wouldn't surprise me if that's the strategy he's going with this time. One thing's for certain… He's not gonna show himself until he means to. We'll be lucky if we find him before them."

"Then we need to start focusing some patrols outside the Kingdom, and look in places that-"

"That won't be necessary, General." Dante immediately spoke up, "You already have enough to deal with concerning the Grimm and Salem's eventual arrival. I can't have you spending resources and people on our behalf like that, especially since you have no ties with that… wretch."

"Regardless of whether or not we have ties to this… Dark King, it doesn't change the fact that in the end, he will be coming for all of us. And seeing as you've defeated him before, you're the Ace up our sleeve." Ironwood explained, "We'll patrol enough to find and identify potential hotspots of activity. As for engaging these Dark Entities, we'll leave the rest to you and your allies. However… We are in this together. That's why I'll assign William Ardâin to work with you."

"What, really?"

"And I'll rotate some of the other Ace Ops in to accompany your allies when searching to make it easier and safer. If we're all working on this together, we can effectively and efficiently deal with this. Plus… Ardâin can do with some more experience in the field. I think if he goes with you, there'd be a good deal for him to learn."

Hm… Could he be sticking me with William to spy on me? Or does he actually think sticking with me will help him grow more? Regardless of which… I am kind of curious to find out more about William. And his Blade. This is an opportunity too good to be wasted.

"After all… Both of you seem to have a commonality."

He knows I've got a Blade. Shouldn't be surprising.

"I'll… try to be of use as best I can." Dante replied, "Thank you for hearing me out and actually believing me. Not many people would after I tell them such a tale, let alone people in your position."

"If things such as Grimm, Salem and The Brother Gods exist, is it so far-fetched to believe these Dark Entities exist as well?" Ironwood asked as he turned to face the young devil, "No, you wouldn't spin a tale like that without good reason. Besides… I could see how serious you were throughout the whole thing, especially concerning that Ogrânix. That being said…" he approached, placing a hand on the devil's shoulder, "From how you explained the situation, it's clear to see that this is personal. My only advice is that you don't get too caught up in hunting him down."

"Don't need to tell me twice. I won't be going around aimlessly." The teen assured as he made for the door, "Thanks again."

"No need. It's important that we help each other in these trying times." Ironwood briefly checked his Scroll, "It seems they haven't gotten too far into the tour on account of Ms. Valkyrie passing by the cafeteria. I'd say you have enough time to catch up with them."

Dante nodded and exited out of the office, hearing the doors closing behind him. Just as he turned the corner he bumped into the person he least expected to at the moment.

"Little too early to doze off in the day, don't you think Ardâin?" Dante asked William, who took a few steps back and stood at attention.

Ah… I guess Ironwood must have told him before he told me…

"S-Sorry, sir."

"Cut the sir crap, dude. I'm not your superior or anything. We're working together, so we're equals." The young devil explained, "Just call me Dante."

"That… will be difficult, since I'm to follow you." The black haired teen replied.

Dante sighed, "Get used to it." He waved off as he began walking, William following after him quickly, "We're equals, got it? Equals. So if you think you've ever got a better idea or want to speak up about something then do it without hesitation. Talk to me like you're talking to a friend or something."

"Er… Alright then… Dante…" William said rather quietly.

"You look troubled."

"Troubled? I… suppose I am…"

"Didn't agree with your sister's tactic of taking me in?"

He went quiet. That had to mean "yes".

"Hey, we have more than enough time for a rematch. Not that you'd beat me though." Dante smugly smiled.

"I suppose we will have time…" he spoke up, this time his voice firm and resolute.

But immediately he receded, returning to his usual calm and awkward self.

So he was a little upset he didn't get to do it his way. While I'm not fond of bragging, it seems I stirred him up a little. That much is needed… if he's gonna give his all to try and beat me. It'll be fun to see what he's truly made of. Him… and his Blade.

"So your Blade Mòrai… How'd you come by her? Is she like Dhîrga in that she's been in the family for ages?" Dante asked.

"Mòrai? No, she… In a manner of speaking, my older brother had her before me, but… she hadn't awakened during the time he had her. He… passed her on to me instead, and she responded."

"I see…" Dante spoke a little more quietly, remembering the conversation he had with Melia earlier today, "Well, I think you and I will get along nicely, Ardâin. Just lighten up yeah? Don't be so stiff." He patted the black haired soldier on the back.

"I… suppose I could be less tense."

The devil sighed, "Come on. Give me a rundown of the place until we get to the cafeteria. I'd like to hear more about Atlas."

---

Good gods that was a spicy chapter... Seems like Melia isn't all too devious after all. What will her contributions be, I wonder?

Aside from that, seems like William joined the party. Not only that, but it seems like we might just learn a thing or two about Blades next chapter.

That's pretty much all I had to say. So with that...

If you have questions, ask them anytime. I will try to answer them without spoiling anything.

Please remember to review, follow and favorite this story if you really enjoyed it and want to continue seeing more of it. And hey, even tell others about this story! Your support genuinely matters.

With that, I bid you all an excellent week/weekend, and remember... be kind and excellent to one another, stay safe, and stay healthy.