My courses is sucking the meaning out of everything in my life. I'm literally going insane with each passing day.
Chapter 7:
I had to call it a night earlier than usual because I was tired and had to deal with a hyperactive Oobleck going over the artifacts I bought from Salem. I've also secured a good deal with Dr. Oobleck with the archaeological grants he can obtain, which will make my archaeological findings profitable. It was nice of Ozpin to offer me a place to rest at Beacon Academy for the night, which I accepted.
True to my wanderlust, I've set out immediately the moment I woke up the next early morning. There was not a single soul out and about on campus, so no goodbyes upfront.
My original intention was to locate Dr. Merlot. However, I am roughly twelve years ahead of what I knew, and to my knowledge, Dr. Merlot's island is uncharted. That means he could be anywhere at this moment. Plus, my initial search turned up empty and a waste of time. If I do meet him… There's a certain service and business model I think Dr. Merlot, Dr. Watts, and Salem would like to try out.
'My internal thoughts and schemes make me sound like a villain.'
I'm also curious about the Fall Maiden, Amber.
Curious if she had already received the Fall Maiden's power. It'll be a good test run for my little magic detecting lizard Grimm, Eubie. There's a certain range that Eubie needs to be to detect the faintest traces of magic, and I'm eager to see how much potential Eubie has. Think of all the magical artifacts we can find in ancient ruins.
Maybe even teach her a few magic tricks for the fun of it. I do have some spellbooks and whatnots, though I'm not sure those are compatible with anybody since the 'Laws of Magic' is different for each world.
But, that can be for another time.
I spend another few hours floating on the ocean watching the sunrise from the ocean, tinting the world in an orange hue. It's a beautiful and tranquil sight. But like everything, it comes to an end, and once again I am off wandering the World of Remnant.
My destination? I thought of going to Patch, but I think I should bounce around the map and see where I'll land. Of course, I was in no hurry, letting myself drift on my small vessel while gazing out into the glittering blue water. There's nothing that puts me at ease and wonder than taking in the scenery.
As I drift towards the east, I begin to reminiscent of my time in Fallout. In a nutshell, I absolutely loathe how ugly the world had become in that dimension. Not a good place to travel around for sightseeing and there's a lot of people who thought they could rob me. I still have my 'Shoplift and Die' sign in my cabinet from those earliest days, and I did live up to my threat back then.
The Fallout world may have been melancholic and tainted, but there are some things that I'd loved about that dimension. Their good taste in music for one. Sure, modern-day music has its own nice spin, but nothing beats the vintage and classics.
My personal favorite is 'We'll Meet Again' by Vera Lynn.
Drifting in the ocean, my mind drifts back to a scene like this in Fallout; floating peacefully in the sea and singing 'We'll Meet Again' while watching people kill each other near the coast. It makes me want to sing. Might as well do so since it's going to be a while. Every now and then, I would rather enjoy watching the scenery and pass the time.
I summoned a vinyl record player and set it down next to me, then a phonograph disc. Gently putting the vinyl needle over the disc, I hit play and let the music drown out the sound of the sea.
"We'll… Meet again. Don't know where don't know when… But I know we'll meet again some sunny day…"
/-/
"Miss Schnee. I can carry those for you if you so wish."
"Thank you, Klein. But I wish to carry these on my own." Winter Schnee kept a steady pace along the uncrowded sidewalks, holding onto her weapon case.
Her white hair was tied back into a ponytail – light blue eyes staring intently at the towering building that is Atlas Academy. One day, she'll leave her estranged father for good, freeing herself of his unpleasant schemes. Winter Schnee has decided that once she becomes of age, she'll enroll at Atlas Academy as a means to break her chains and burden. If she cannot, then she'll enlist in the military.
It matters not. All she cares about is escape.
"Oh. Oh! What's this wonderful smell?" Klein's eyes turn yellow as his nostril flares, stomach rumbling. The balding man's eyes then turned pink, looking bashful. "Ah, forgive me for my outburst."
Winter can't help but smile. Klein Sieben is the only person who has acted remotely as a father figure. The man has been their loyal family doctor and butler for her mother and Winter's younger siblings for many years. There's no one in the world she trusts as much as Klein.
"It is getting close to lunch." She also begins to notice the aroma of smoked meat. Possibly lamb chops and with some kind of seasoning that's producing that faint sweet scent. "Let's go find the establishment the aroma is hailing from."
"Oh, you're truly a snow angel. Follow me!"
Klein gleefully navigates through the streets and up the stairs towards a marble plaza, following his trusty nose towards a rather large and fashionable food stall. It was utilitarian in appearance, a blend of futuristic aesthetics. The stall is made out of some kind of plastic; white and blue sheen, fitting of Atlesian colors along with four flat screened terminals mounted within the stalls like a menu board.
[Here and There]
A Store From out of Nowhere
'What kind of name is that for a food stall?' Thought Winter. An eyebrow raised. She begins to wonder if the owner of the stall is illiterate.
An older teenage boy with brushed-back amber blond hair and brown eyes was the only person manning the food stall, serving a couple with a genuine smile on his face.
"Here you go, enjoy."
The teenager hands them two sizeable paper carryout food containers, including napkins and eating utensils. He waves the couple goodbye and turns to face Klein and Winter. A spark of recognition flickers across his eyes.
Winter didn't think anything of it the look of recognition. She is the eldest daughter and supposed heir of the Schnee Dust Company. Nearly anybody in Atlas and Mantle would recognize her. This sort of recognition often leads to special treatment by those wishing to curry favors with the SDC. Something rather unpleasant at times.
"I say, young man. What was it that they ordered?" Klein asks, "It has such a fragrance scent!"
"Smoked Applewood lamb chops. Seasoned with basil, mint, garlic powder, paprika, cinnamon, coriander, saffron, and seven drops of Maple syrup. A unique blend that many would view unsavory, but I've perfected my own recipe." The boy answers and lifts a small tray with the samples. "Care to try a bite? Please help yourself."
Klein's eyes shine brightly in a dazzling spectrum of color upon smelling the wispy aroma coming from the lamb chops samples.
"Don't mind if I do!" He picks one up by its toothpick and chews on the softly sliced meat. Each bite he took squeezes the flavor of herbs and spices into his tongue, making him shiver blissfully. "Wonderful! Absolutely wonderful! Oh, Miss Schnee! Please, you must try this! It's the most delicious thing I've ever tasted!"
"You're too kind, my good sir." The boy levels the tray of samples near Winter. "Would you like to try some?"
"Yes. Thank you." She took a piece and gracefully tried the sample.
True to Klein's word, it is delicious. An explosive flavor. A perfect mixture of sweet and salty, all encompassed by the scent and faint taste of Smoked Applewood. Winter was taken aback by the taste. She's been to several high-class and highly praised restaurants before, but this Smoked Applewood lamb chop put their full course meal to shame.
"I would like to order what I've just sampled!" Klein went ahead with his order, eager to savor the flavor and quell his rumbling stomach.
"Of course." The boy raises his hand and snaps his fingers. One of the nearby flat-screened terminals blink to life and summons a pale holographic screen. "Would you like to make some adjustments to your current order?"
Food & Drinks
Sweet Smoked Applewood Lamb Chops
720 Lien
Sides
Sauce & Seasonings
Utensils
…
Continue Ordering
Checkout
Klein didn't show much surprise on his face by the sudden appearance of an interactive holographic screen. Atlas has been advancing its technologies lately and it won't be long before some of the science fiction aspects become reality. An interactive holographic screen is rather mundane compared to what Atlas' greatest minds are working on.
The butler immediately went to work in customizing his order.
"How convenient! What else do I want? Hmmm… Perhaps some salad for the sides. Some extra paprika… No, more saffron!"
"Shall I group your order together?" The teenager asks Winter, "And please. Call me Seth."
Winter nods, "Yes. Please do."
She internally frowns as she looks at one of the flat-screened terminals, wondering how to activate them. Seemingly reading her mind or intention; the screen blinks to life and projects another holographic screen.
She must have made a startling expression because Seth was silently chuckling to himself at her reaction
"Technology sure is a wonderful thing, is it not?" He grins and waves away her angry pout, "My apologies. I did not mean to ridicule you. Please, take a look at my menu. If you'd like, I can make haste with the process if you tell me what you would like."
"Very well. I would like to have what was sampled earlier." Winter said with a huff.
"Of course, Miss Schnee."
The screen immediately fills out the order for her to modify.
Food & Drinks
Sweet Smoked Applewood Lamb Chops
720 Lien
Sides
Sauce & Seasonings
Utensils
…
Continue Ordering
Checkout
After some deliberation, Winter finalized her order and pressed the Checkout button. In the food stall, Seth was already cooking up their meal with surprising dexterity and speed. It would seem that Seth had anticipated that the Sweet Smoked Applewood Lamb Chops would be popular and already had some cooked up.
How else could he finish cooking their meal within seconds?
Transaction:
[Klein]
1x Sweet Smoked Applewood Lamb Chops, Sides salad w/… – 786 Lien
1x Apple Cider w/ Mulling Spices – 78 Lien
[Winter]
1x Sweet Smoked Applewood Lamb Chops, low salt, and sugar w/ Yeast bread roll,… – 722 Lien
1x Winter White Earl Grey – 91 Lien
Total: 1,745 Lien
"Thank you for your patronage! Enjoy." Seth hands them their food containers, utensils, and a receipt.
"I know I certainly will!" Klein happily chirps, "Let's get seated. Shall we, Miss Schnee?" He motions at several pairs of chairs and square tables around the stall. "It's best to enjoy our meal while it's fresh and hot!"
Winter hesitates briefly, then nods. She never truly enjoyed eating out in public, more so in open spaces. Often than not, she gets enough stares and at worse, somebody would strike up a conversation with her in an attempt to form a connection with the SDC heiress.
"Let me know if you need anything. Oh, and Miss Schnee…" The sudden change in Seth's tone certainly grabbed Winter's attention. The teenage girl turns to Seth, eyes staring warily into his. "An advice from someone who has some future foresight. On your sister's tenth birthday, you might want to check up and look after your siblings and mother."
Her body suddenly felt tense in the cool air. A worrying expression begins to form that quickly warps into something best described as defiance.
"What do you mean?" She demands.
"I believe you are aware of your father's true nature more than I am. In any case, it's best to try and give your siblings some stability. Your mother too, if she's so willing to accept." Seth waves his hand dismissively, "Their lives are not in danger, nor will they be physically harmed. I think… However, I cannot say the same for their mental and emotional wellbeing."
"…!" Winter opens her mouth, but Seth silenced her with a shake of his head.
"I've said too much." He then reverts to his upbeat professional demeanor. "And kept you long enough. Please enjoy your meal."
/-/
Warning someone of future events is a tricky thing. Take all these myths and legends about people trying to avoid prophecies. The prophecies ultimately become true despite everything they do to avoid it.
To quote, or paraphrase the French poet Jean de La Fontaine: "A person often meets his destiny on the road he takes to avoid it."
This is why I often don't give too much away, though it's case-by-case for the most part.
It's also a pity I didn't get to know Winter and Klein a bit more. Then again, it's understandable since Winter is a public figure being the current heiress of the SDC. It'll attract attention, and speaking of about 'winter'…
"Eeeep. Eeeep."
"Yes, Eubie. I know for the second time now. There's no need to chirp." I gently boop the tiny Grimm lizard on the nose to keep it silent. The Eublephus tilts its head at me and curls up beside my left arm on the work surface behind the counter, out of sight from the public view. "Sorry about that, Fria."
"Oh, that's alright. I can't imagine someone being able to stop their pets from chirping or barking all the time."
Fria, the Winter Maiden sat at the counter across from me enjoying a cup of steaming Turmeric milk. A perfect beverage for the cold climate. By chance, this elderly woman stumbles across my food stall and decided to take a rest and enjoy what I have to offer.
"Indeed. You cannot control every aspect of another. Sometimes we can't even control ourselves."
"Just like this old maiden." The elderly lady lifts her mug cup jokingly, "I cannot stop myself from taking a sip every five seconds."
We shared a hearty chuckle and sigh, watching the world continue to flow with time.
"I'm curious, what do you do when there's nothing to do? When I have no motivation to learn a new skill or find another hobby, I would pass the time by watching the world pass by as I travel."
"I paint." Fria answers, "Anything that catches my eye. If not that, I too settle down and let my mind wander aimlessly. On cold days, I enjoy hot tea… Though this drink you made is certainly my favorite now."
"Why, thank you. If you would like, I can provide you my recipe."
Her face brightens, "I would like that. It's time I learn how to brew something other than hot tea." She takes another sip and breathes deeply, "I do like a hot drink on a cold day. Reminds me of home."
"Can you tell me more about your home?"
Fria slowly puts a hand on her chin. "My mind isn't what it used to be, but I remember when I was young, I would put my face against the window and gaze excitedly into the world from my room – Wondering what was out there. If you ignore the Grimm, of course. Hoho."
Despite suffering from memory losses, her fondness of her home lets her paint a vivid place in my mind with her words. The lands it was built on, the people, the place beyond – Old memories resurfacing, bringing new tales and places. Places that I hope I can visit someday, even if they exist no more.
While I listen intently to Fria's recollection of her life, I noticed a police officer approaching us.
'Another one… He's probably going to ask me if I have a license to operate. As if I wasn't already limited in my service to just food and drinks.'
No vendors are supposed to be operating in this plaza, so I am doing something illegal by Atlas laws.
Due to Atlas' strict control and capitalist bureaucracy, I also can't sell Dust crystals, weapons, armors, and a host of other items without proper permits and licenses. I can ignore the rules, but that'll attract unwanted attention and maybe my face will be put on the wanted list. With Atlas being close to a surveillance state, it's going to be a pain.
That leaves me with clothes, small supplies, and food & drinks which are supposedly the most overlooked. Not many would buy clothes out in the open like some tourists, so I cut my losses and decided to sell food and drinks only. Even then, there's not much room for me to operate effectively.
So, here I am taking my chances. A decent short-term revenue in this bustling area. It's supposed to be more active once rush hour starts which means more income, hopefully.
"One moment, Fria."
"Hm?" The elderly woman glance over her shoulder and spots the police officer. "Oh. I see."
"Excuse me, young man." The police officer pointedly looks at me and maintains a professional tone. "Do you have a license to operate this food stall?"
Even if I do have a license and show it to him, he'll say that this area is currently off-limits to vendors as I've found out with the previous police officer that approached me. I was seriously hoping these guys don't have every rule memorized in their heads, but maybe I'm wrong.
'Right. Time to do that Mind Trick again.'
"Didn't I show you my license earlier today, officer?" I asked back with a frown, gesturing with my right hand. The moment I completed the causal hand-waving motion, I had the police officer under my influence, his eyes becoming unfocused for the briefest moment. "I was even given permission to set up my stall here. Don't you remember?"
The police officer blinks and tilts his head back slightly, mouth opening as if he just remembered something.
"That's right! You did. You did…" He put lets out a bashful laugh and rubs his neck. "Sorry about that. It's been a long day."
"It's alright. You were just doing your job. Would you like something before you go? A 15% discount for law enforcement agents."
The police officer hums a bit and nods. "I saw coffee on the board sign. What do you have?"
"How about a Macchiato with Kona Coffee Beans? Its taste will keep you awake for just 44 Lien."
"Kona Coffee Beans, huh? I remember my brother saying that the aroma is very pleasing… Sure. I would like to try that."
Transaction:
1x Macchiato, Kona Coffee Bean – 44 Lien
Total: 44 Lien
"Here you go, officer. Enjoy." I wave the police officer goodbye and turn my attention to Fria, "Now, where were we again?"
"D'oh, I can't recall anymore." Fria sets her empty cup onto the counter and sighs. "Every day my memories become more distant."
"Don't worry about it then and take it easy. It's not something –"
"We can control." She finishes my sentence, faintly smiling. "I remember what you've said." Fria slowly pushes herself up from her seat and tugs on her woolly coat. "It's been a pleasure talking to you, Seth. I hope we'll meet again soon."
"As do I." I hand her a folded paper containing the recipe for my blend of Turmeric milk, along with my scroll number. "Here's the recipe and my number, should you ever feel like you need someone to talk to."
"Are you flirting with an old lady like me, Seth?" Fria jokingly asks, amusement flickering across the elderly woman's face. "Such an old age tactic for someone young."
"And I didn't take you for such a teaser. Perhaps I am older than I look, at least on the inside." I grinned and the two shares another laugh. "Regardless, I like to form connections with people. It's what being a merchant is all about."
Fria gave me a sly smile. A good indicator she's a lot sharper than I'd expected.
"But you're anything but an ordinary merchant, are you?"
"I suppose it depends on one's perspective of what is ordinary. Personally, I see myself as just another merchant. A merchant who is not like the others."
/-/
Dr. Arthur Watts sat in his office, hunchbacked as he works on the blueprint for his latest creation, the Atlesian Paladin for an upcoming project proposal.
The Atlesian Paladin will be one of the many pinnacles of his work. A heavy mechanized battle suit outfitted with devastating weapons and great mobility. Such a weapon would further elevate his status within the Kingdom of Atlas and advance his name into the scientific community. He finds the probability of any other proposal that would beat out his design.
And Pietro… That fat imbecile is also thinking about submitting his own ridiculous proposal.
A knock on his door rudely interrupted his work.
'This better be good.' Dr. Watts thought with a sneer.
He opens the surveillance camera feed to see who his unwanted visitor is. It wasn't anyone he knew, much less bothered to know. His visitor is out of place; a smiling teenage boy with amber blond hair and brown eyes.
"Hello, Dr. Watts." The boy greets him on the camera feed, "My apologies for this late hour visit."
The Atlesian scientist frowns. How did this boy know he was watching him on the live feed? More importantly, how did this nobody entered a restrictive area? They didn't accept any interns.
"State your business. I am very busy."
"With pleasure, doctor."
A small holographic screen appears next to Dr. Watts' desk, making the man blink. Rather than being surprised and on edged, he was intrigued by the sudden display.
[Here and There]
TO: Dr. Arthur Watts
Opportunity Recruitment
READ
"Interesting." He reaches out and plucks the small screen from the air. "Where is the source of this... Projection?" Dr. Watts got up from his chair and surveyed his office. "I had my office heavily secured and swept for any potential breach, yet this little showcase of yours proved that you've circumvented that. How?"
"I'm afraid that's a trade secret, though I reckon that Atlas can create something akin, albeit lesser than mines in a few years. Please, call me Seth."
"You've clearly underestimated my genius." Dr. Watts pinch his mustache with conceit at Seth's remark. "Hard-light Dust was developed by Atlas, furthered perfected, and incorporated into ever so advancing technologies. Once the basics are understood, things like these" He waves the small holographic screen in his hand, "are mundane. Although the potential is high."
In the camera feed, Seth grins widely.
"What makes you say that it's Hard-light Dust?"
The holographic screen in Dr. Watts' hand suddenly became heavier and cold, startling the man and dropping it onto his desk. Much to his shock, the small holographic screen had somehow transformed into a metallic card with a silver sheen. Engraved into the metallic card are the same glowing blue words he was presented earlier.
[Here and There]
TO: Dr. Arthur Watts
Opportunity Recruitment
READ
"This… How?" He snatches the squared object up and examined it with increasing wonder. "Some sort of metallic alloy. A chemical reaction? Impossible! Hard-light Dust cannot change composition properties. Only between solid and gas state at best." Dr. Watts sharply suck in his breath. "I think I see what you meant. Fascinating. Truly fascinating."
"Technology is certainly fascinating." Seth straightens his posture and stares straight into the camera. "Pardon me, but may I be let in?"
"Very well, but I should warn you." Dr. Watts' hand reaches for his drawer and pulls out his 20-shot double-barrel revolver. "I am capable of defending myself if your intent is anything less than pleasant."
"Of course, Dr. Watts." The door slides open and the teenage boy walks smiling, completely disregarding the weapon resting in Atlesian scientist's hand. "Thank you for letting me in. Allow me to introduce myself again."
"Skip the introductions." The man sharply cut him off. He brings up the metallic card to the teen's face. "This says that you're interested in recruiting me. Do tell me... Why in the world I would forsake all of Atlas' resources to work with an unknown party?"
Seth smiles and shuffles his footing, "Because you're a very proud man. A proud and brilliant man who accomplished so many for Atlas, but is starting to feel that you're being taken for granted."
Dr. Watts' mind flashback to James Ironwood, but he quickly cleared his thoughts to focus on his mysterious visitor.
"Hmph, and what benefit could I possibly gain from working with you?"
"I am unworthy of your association." The boy said humbly, or mockingly. Dr. Watts cannot get a good read on him. "But a powerful associate of mine would certainly like someone of your caliber to join her little group."
"Sounds rather insignificant and troublesome."
"The Queen understands that you are currently satisfied with your position and standing." Seth's eyes gleam in the dimly lit room. "Should you ever be dissatisfied… My contact information is on that card. Just put your fingers over READ and everything you need to know should be there."