RWBY: The Last Stand
W.T. Roberts
5
Night had struck Atlas, yet every last post was on high alert. Ironwood had heard tell from a scouting excursion that a herd of Grimm was on its way. Therefore, Atlas was in lockdown; not a soul was allowed in, neither was any citizen admitted beyond the city limits. Ironwood had sent runners to Vacuo; still no response. He had also received whispers of the victory at Haven, but no confirmation. The messengers, however had returned, and an unexpected squad of trainees tagged along. Five of them, in particular, were invited to dine with General Ironwood, and the elevator whooshed open on cue. Ruby, Weiss, Blake, and Yang marveled at the sheer size of the banquet hall. A nervous young Ozpin followed, hand shaking at his cane. Weiss shot ahead of the others, aiming for her sister. "Winter!" she called. The Atlesian Specialist turned slowly, eyes narrowed. Winter opened her mouth to speak, but her commander beat her to the punch. "We can dispense with the absolute correctness, Schnee." Winter's shoulders relaxed, and she embraced her younger sibling affectionately. "I'm so glad you're okay!" Weiss cried as tears threatened. "And I'm glad you weren't hurt." Winter smiled back. "Now," Ironwood cleared his throat. "Down to business." He fixed his gaze on Oscar. "You, old man, have some explaining to do." "Don't worry James," Ozpin grinned mischievously. "I'm in full control." The turbolift whizzed open once more, admitting Qrow, Port, and Oobleck into the room. Ruby sped to her uncle's side, gripping his arm in an Ursa-hug. The general gestured over to the banquet table. "Won't everyone take a seat?"
Cinder waited at the apex of the tower for the signal. Tonight, was to be total annihilation. Swift and silent. Nothing further. Unfortunately, the Grimm stationed at Vale were still frozen in time by that whelp with silver eyes; Cinder had to do best with what she had. No matter, though; since Atlas military weren't pro huntsmen, it would be easy as pie. "We're in position," Emerald's voice came over the intercom. "Very well," Cinder replied back. "Let them in."
The door to Atlas vaporized, yet the timing of Grimm was delayed. So, Emerald and Mercury peeked out into the darkness. The beasts were lying dead, evaporating, some with arrows protruding from their hides, others with pole-arms stuck in their undercarriages. In the horde's place was an army of settlers, huntsmen, and raiders. "You won't be bringing down the house anytime soon," Haken declared as he revealed himself.
Cinder was furious. "What is going on?" she hissed over her scroll. "You… might want to come down and see this." Mercury said shakily. The link was converted to video, and Emerald pointed her scroll to the scene. All Cinder could do was scream.
The diners heard the maiden's screech, and all rushed to the wall of windows to catch a glimpse. An army was entering Atlas; but they weren't pillaging, burning, or murdering. This army dragged with them the corpses of the Grimm herd. An explosion at the barbican attracted all eyes, and all eyes witnessed a spectacle never before seen.