You hear that? Drums and soldiers marching? Yup! That's soldiering!
Mountain Glenn, Vale
"WoaaaAAARGHHH!"
Slick really couldn't think of a better response to falling from a significant height. As far as he was concerned, he may be falling to his death already. That idea wasn't particularly appealing to the 501st trooper.
His descent continued to go faster to the point that if he did manage to find something to land on, it would most likely kill him. Then, by some miracle, he spotted a branch within his path of descent. Thinking quickly, the Toro Guardsman managed to get himself within reach before he passed the branch and clung to it for dear life.
It was rather painful for his arm as the sudden loss of momentum caused him to gasp in pain. Then, he remembered something as to why he was here in the first place. However, before he could act on anything, the branch he was so hopeful that could hold him, broke off.
Once again he was falling, but maybe this time, Lady Luck decided to be generous as he finally landed on... something. His armor cluttered upon impact as he groaned in pain. Beside him, he heard the voice of the reason he was here.
"Are you okay?" asked Ruby as she looked over at him. Slick's first instinct was to move his limbs around. His arms and hands seemed to be fine. For some reason, his left leg was in too much pain to move around, and that's when it hit him.
Shaking his head, he gave a solemn, "No... left leg's not up to snuff. We should probably get out of-"
Just then, a door opened behind them revealing two White Fang soldiers, both armed with rifles and both were aimed at them. Upon seeing Slick, they open fire, nailing him in the chest and head.
"No!" cried Ruby as she saw the trooper fall, two marks on his armor showing where he was shot. Before she could retaliate against the two guards, however, she was grabbed by one of the White Fang grunts. Struggling to get free, she was dragged across the floor as she cried for help.
"Heh," smirked one of the grunts, "Forget it kid, the only guy who could've saved you was your Atlesian friend, but he ain't getting up too soon."
Hissss-click!
"Don't count on it," said a voice as all three heads looked towards the source only to have two heads be shot at by a blue bolt of light. Lo and behold, Slick was alive and... not quite well, but better than dead. In his hands was a blaster pistol that was most likely from his holster.
"You're alive!" exclaimed Ruby as she ran towards the trooper and gave him a hug. Slick felt confused at the sudden approach, but he patted her on the head.
"I am," he replied as he slowly got up, "Their rounds weren't strong enough to penetrate my armor, but they do have a kick."
The Ord Squad member began to limp towards the open door as he gestured for Ruby to follow, "Come on kid, take one of their guns. We gotta get back to our teams."
Ruby nodded as she did as instructed and followed Slick into the door. Silently, she prayed that the both of them could manage to put a stop to all of this, but something tells her that it'll be suicide to carry on as they were.
RWBY Security
Chapter 23: Thus the BSF Marched
Beacon Academy, Vale
Azure was in his office once again, relentlessly reviewing the entirety of the Mountain Glenn infrastructure plans. So far, he's managed to find the area where the White Fang base was. It was connected to an assortment of tunnels that could lead quite possibly anywhere. Glancing at his watch, he saw the time was now one in the morning.
"Almost time for Foxtrot 9 to move in," mused the Marshal.
Just then, a knock on his door came in.
"Enter," called Azure as he looked toward his supposed visitor. The visitor was revealed to be Commander Moris, helmet under his arms as he sat down. In one of his hands was a mug of steaming hot liquid.
Settling the mug down, Moris greeted the Marshal, "How's the evening sir?"
"Concerning."
"That's a new reply."
Taking the mug placed on his table, Azure took a sip. The bitter taste of the coffee kicked in and refilled him with new energy. "Well, it's a rather concerning problem that could lead to civilian casualties if we make the wrong step."
Moris looked at the screen that flashed before him and pointed to one route. "Look here sir," his finger was pointed towards a tunnel route, "The base is here right? Look at this route on the bottom right. It leads away from the expansion and goes... here."
Azure followed the finger and when he saw the destination, he could've choked on his coffee. "Good gods... Moris, get me in contact with the 65th's Colonel and Captain Foster, and tell Captain Sixers to make a staging ground at the Academy."
"Yes sir!"
The two men stood up and left the office in a hurry, with Azure running towards Ozpin's office, while Moris ran to Toro Company's barracks. Upon arriving at the CCTS, he managed to stumble into James Ironwood and Glynda Goodwitch taking a stroll outside. Seeing the head of security in a rush, Glynda asked, "Is everything okay Azure?"
"No," was his reply, "We figured it out, we have to go to Ozpin, or else hundreds will die!"
In a blink of an eye, Azure ran into the building. James held a concerned look as he watched the Field Marshal go inside. He then looked at Glynda who motioned for him to follow her.
The two would soon be in Ozpin's office where the Headmaster sat down as he listened to Azure's report.
"It will happen here Ozpin!" The report was more akin to an angry rambling, but the Marshal was determined to build the picture of how urgent this was. "The tunnels from Mountain Glenn all lead to this point in the city. If an attack is to happen here, there will be hundreds dead within the first ten minutes."
"Then what do you propose?" asked Ozpin as he gave Azure a stern glare.
"We begin evacuating the area and establish a perimeter around the AO. I already have my men preparing gunships to deploy into the city. Ozpin, with your blessing, I can coordinate with General Ironwood to ferry your huntsmen into the city to ensure the total safety of civilians."
The Headmaster stared intently at his Head of Security before speaking, "It would certainly cause quite the panic... but I have faith that you will be able to outweigh that factor."
Azure's eyes looked with hope as Ozpin nodded, "Very well. We will take action, do what you must Garreth. I will organize more transport for my students. James, Glynda, make preparations to ferry your students and get me in contact with the Chief of Police."
The pair nodded immediately and left just as quickly as they arrived. Azure took off his cap as he allowed himself a smile. "You won't regret this Ozpin..."
"I'm sure I won't. Now go, your men need you!"
In an act of great respect in making a favorable decision, Azure replied, "By your command Headmaster."
The door behind the Marshal closed as he left Ozpin to make his own arrangements.
…
RAS Deliverance
Republic Assault Ship Deliverance was home to many units within the Aurek Corps' Supplementary Legion. From the semi-clandestine unit of the 22nd Airborne Regiment to the loud and proud tankers of the 32nd Armored Regiment. All of them may be different in divisions, but the one thing that united them was their undying hatred of the idle atmosphere.
Hate was a strong word, sure, but none of them could deny that they would rather be working on solid ground and not in the hulls of the Deliverance. This was a problem that Colonel Dvalin of the 65th Engineering and Artillery Regiment couldn't be bothered with as he had more personal and pressing matters at hand. On his desk was his helmet, the usual clone trooper white present with touches of lighter blue stripes adorning it, and a sun visor adorning it. Beside the helmet was his customized rotary blaster. The base model was the clone favorite Z-6 Rotary Cannon, but instead of the usual 6 barrels that most clones have, his was a large single barrel. Dvalin adjusted the power-amplifying circuits of his customized weapon, taking extra care to not bump into any vital wires lest his improvised two-handed mortar was to fire a shot that he wasn't ready for.
He was successful in this regard as he placed his screwdriver on his workbench before he took a minute to inspect his handiwork. The gun's frame was still yet to be reassembled around the skeleton of the weapon, but for the most part, it looked fit for field operations. He felt a lunch break was well-earned after this work, and he planned to get something from the mess hall when he was stopped at the door by an airborne trooper adorned with the same light blue markings that he had. The trooper was most likely an officer if the kama and macrobinoculars attached to his belt and helmet were anything to go by. A distinct square statue mark on the helmet was the final giveaway as to who has stopped him.
"Captain Moyai," greeted the Colonel.
Moyai was quick to salute him, "Sir." He lowered his hand when Dvalin returned the salute with a nod as he carried on, "Compliments from the Deliverance's Captain. You have a message from the top of the brass."
"Top of the brass? The Field Marshal's staff?" wondered Dvalin out loud.
"Maybe sir," nodded the airborne captain, "Captain Yohan says that it's urgent." He then handed the Colonel a holo communicator before saluting again, leaving the latter to himself.
Lightly grumbling about not getting lunch, Dvalin dialed the frequency of the communicator's last contact, and after a while, the device began to project a rather prominent figure of the Aurek Corps. Prominent wasn't exactly cutting it however when you consider the man before him was none other than Field Marshal Garreth Azure, his dark blue eyes looking down on the Colonel. Then, a warm smile etched itself on his face as he greeted the Colonel, "Colonel Dvalin, a pleasant day to you."
"F-field Marshal Azure!" stuttered Dvalin, nervous as it wasn't every day that the highest authority of the Corps contacted you personally.
"At ease Colonel, I am simply here to issue you your new orders myself." Azure's words made the 65th's Colonel blink. If they were getting orders from the Field Marshal, who mind you, was boots on the ground on Remnant, that could possibly mean...
"Colonel Dvalin, I want you to take two of your platoons planetside. You are to bring materials to bolster an urban combat zone defense, materials for a field hospital, and a small emplacement for mortars. I think five mortar guns should suffice..."
Dvalin was quick to write down the new orders on a datapad near his bench as he repeated the Marshal's orders in his head. "Very good sir, I shall have my most trusted captain to bring them down."
"Not quite just your captain I'm afraid," said Azure, "You are to lead the platoons personally."
Dvalin made sure to blink twice before he pinched himself.
Azure had to chuckle, "I am glad to see that you are eager Colonel, but make no mistake, we are doing this to prevent civilian casualties. Understood?"
"Yes, Marshal Azure!"
"Good man. Azure, out."
The transmission ended leaving Dvalin to himself again. He shook himself out of his disbelief before he yelled towards the door.
"Captain Moyai, assemble two platoons, and get us engineering package Urban Delta Kilo! Tell Captain Yohan that we will be assembling at the main hangar shortly!"
Mountain Glenn, Vale
Slick was beginning to think that these Faunus militants weren't exactly the brightest tool in the shed. So far, he and Ruby have taken down five patrols and no one has still sounded an alarm. With the GAR and consequently, the BSF, if even one trooper failed to report in, the entire army would be on alert. The White Fang clearly lacks the discipline needed to run operations such as this.
Not that he was complaining of course. Whatever helps him and Ruby get out of this mess, he'll take it.
Turning a corner, he heard two more guards coming their way which prompted him to signal Ruby to stop. He drew his bayonet from his belt as he waited for the two guards to pass, and when they did, he made his move, going for the neck. The first soldier was soon choking on their own blood as Slick drew the bayonet from his throat before tackling the second Faunus. His opponent was strong, but he was a genetically modified soldier and one of his best traits was his increased strength as he slit the poor soldier's throat.
Using his glove, he cleaned the blade of any blood left and placed it back in his belt scabbard before he looked at Ruby who looked with fear at the display, but she bit her lip before nodding, understanding that it needed to be done. Slick was about to say something to the student huntress when suddenly he felt himself being lifted off the ground when a large figure hoisted him up with one hand.
"What the-"
"Got you."
A large Faunus grunt easily towering three inches over the clone trooper tossed him across the floor. Slick was on his knee the second he hit the ground as he drew his blaster pistol, but when he squeezed the trigger, three whirring noises made him curse. His gun was empty and he was horribly outmatched by the man in front of him if he tried to fight him in melee. Ruby managed to remain hidden, but when she tried to shoot the sudden opponent, a single slick was heard, indicating the gun jammed.
Suddenly, more Faunus arrived, surrounding them. The situation was no longer favorable for the duo and it left the clone to ponder if he should...
He didn't get any chance to make any choice when three Faunus began to restrain him. Then, protocol began to click into Slick's mind when he felt a hand grab his pistol. With all of his strength, he shrugged off his supposed captors and with both hands broke his DC-17 in two. His captors were soon quick to get him restrained as they were assisted by the large man who tossed Slick like a ragdoll.
"Take them to the boss," said a masked Faunus who, for some reason, had glasses over his mask, "He'll want to see this."
...
Gus and Jest soon arrived at the camp, which had stirred awake already when Zwei entered, barking as loud as he could to Yang. It didn't take long for them to realize the sudden absence of team RWBY's leader. Gambit was shaken awake by Jest who was almost hit by a punch thrown by the Sergeant. The rest of Ord Squad was soon up alongside RWBY and Doctor Oobleck.
"What's going on?" asked Blake.
Killdane looked at the duo of troopers who woke up the camp, "You two better have an explanation for this. Where's Slick?"
"T-trouble sir," uttered Jest as he panted in fatigue, "We have to rescue them, Sarge!"
"Slow down Jest," said Gambit, placing a hand on his trooper's shoulder, "What happened?"
Gus quickly retold the events that had happened when Zwei left the camp, prompting Ruby to follow the dog. He then told them about the White Fang soldiers they found lurking around the city, which caused more concern for the group.
"When we were about to head back, the ground below us began to collapse," continued Gus, "We managed to get clear, but Miss Rose wasn't fast enough-WOAH!"
Yang's eyes turned red as she suddenly grabbed Gus and hoisted him in the air, "What happened to her?!" The other members of Ord Squad drew pistols and pointed blades at the huntress-in-training, ordering her to let go of their squadmate.
Doctor Oobleck placed his own hand on Yang's shoulder, "Miss Xiao Long, put him down." The words were soft, yet resolute as he glared at the blonde who reluctantly lowered the trooper.
"Argh- Damn it, Xiao Long!" cursed Gus as he fixed himself up, "Slick leaped after her and managed to catch her, but the ground beneath him collapsed too. They both fell."
Jest, distressed looked toward Gambit, "Sir, we have to save them!"
Gambit sighed, "Damn it... why now... Get the camp packed and ready your weapons, we're oscar mike in two minutes."
"Yes sir!" echoed his squad as they dispersed to carry out their new orders.
"Girls," said Oobleck, "Help Sergeant Gambit's men pack up. The faster they get ready the sooner we can rescue your leader."
The remaining members of team RWBY nodded before they made their way to the other areas of the camp to offer their assistance. Meanwhile, Gambit flicked his comms on as he dialed BSF Headquarters, "Ord Squad to Golf Shed, we have a situation."
"Golf Shed reads you Sergeant, report," a clone field officer replied.
"One of our own and team RWBY went MIA. We have reason to believe they fell within the AO."
"Copy that, we can send in Foxtrot 9 in 20 mikes."
Gambit didn't like that answer, "Negative, that will take too long. My squad will move in immediately to secure our own personnel."
"Too risky Sergeant," replied the officer, it was clear that he wasn't liking the situation as much as he did, "Your best option will be to wait."
"...Negative, Golf Shed. Ord Squad will press on. Out here."
Before the operator could rebuke this reckless plan, Gambit was quick to cut off the comms. To his right, he saw Doctor Oobleck nod toward him in respect. It felt needed because only rarely do the Guardsmen of the 501st Legion ignore, and even outright ignore orders from command.
Soon, the group was ready to set out as Zwei, Jest, and Gus lead the way to where the accident happened. The sinkhole was still there when they arrived, but Doctor Oobleck urged them to be cautious, lest the hole gets bigger.
Killdane activated his helmet's night vision function, trying to see if anything was visible, "What could be down there?"
"The underground city," mused Gambit, having reviewed the map that the Republic SOGs drew.
"That is correct Sergeant," said the doctor, adjusting his glasses, "Mountain Glenn was Vale's most serious attempt at expansion outside the kingdom's boundaries. At first, the project saw relative success, being able to house thousands upon thousands of Vale's citizens."
Oobleck's tone then took a darker tone as he continued, "Unfortunately, with the increasing Grimm attacks, the logistics of the project plummeted and little by little, the population began to flee. The remaining survivors, most of them miners, and engineers, began to evacuate into the metro tunnels they built when Vale couldn't provide materials via air. They soon sealed themselves off from the rest of the outside world. All was well for them until... an explosion opened up a second entrance into the tunnels, allowing Grimm to flood into the settlement, thus creating Remnant's largest tomb."
The group found themselves speechless, the dark history of the ruined city slowly burning into their minds. Jest, however, had a different idea as he drew his bayonet from his scabbard, fixing the blade on his DC-15A rifle.
"If our friends are down there," he said, voice filled with determination, "then we must get them back."
Gambit placed a hand on his trooper's soldier, "And we will brother, but we need a plan of attack first." He turned to Gus who was looking down into the sinkhole. "Gus, where did those two guards enter before you ran back to camp?"
The trooper in question scratched his head, "Well, I personally didn't see where they went, but Zwei did."
Ord Squad's leader looked at the corgi who barked as if he were agreeing with what his squadmate just said. Without any other options to go with, Gambit sighed as he looked at Yang, "Miss Xiao Long, can you ask Zwei to show us the way to the base?"
An unsure look grazed Yang's face, but she guessed that they were already scraping the bottom of the barrel for ideas. "Gotcha. Hey Zwei, can you show us where those two Faunus went?"
The corgi barked again before running around the hole, prompting the group to follow him. They soon stumbled upon a metal door, one that recently had fingerprints if Vicker's medical scanner could be trusted.
"This looks like it," said Gambit, "Ord Squad, commence breaching maneuver."
The squad soon stacked up on the door as Gus placed a breaching detonator on the plated door.
"Charge set!" yelled the trooper as he and the squad braced for the explosion.
Gambit thumbed the detonator switch, "Breaching!"
Beacon Academy, Vale
The bullhead docks of the Academy were busier than usual at this time. The problem is that it wasn't the usual Beacon staff that was running it. Instead, it was the Beacon Security Forces as men from the 5th Fleet Marine detachment, the Guard Regiment's Toro Company, A Regiment's Torrent Company, and the newest temporary addition to the force, the two platoons of the 65th Engineering and Artillery Regiment.
Gunships were loaded with cargo such as the 65th's engineering packages, medical supplies from the fleet above, and even additional weaponry to be used by the battalions being deployed. Troopers quietly arranged themselves in squads to board the gunships, while pilots had to make sure that they avoid flying over the dormitories of the Academy.
At the center of all this controlled chaos was Field Marshal Azure, now wearing his full clone armor instead of his usual white and black officer uniform. By his side were the commanding officers of the various units like Commander Moris, Captains Sixers, Foster, Murray, and Moyai, and Colonel Dvalin. The officers and their subordinates were in the process of being briefed by the Marshal about the upcoming operation, the latter being very particular on maintaining the perimeter.
"With our current strength, we will be hard-pressed to contain the danger within the street. Luckily for us, General Ironwood and the Vale Police Department have agreed to send more men to supplement the secondary positions at Point Alpha and Delta. Captain Sixers, the first line of defense will be here," he pointed at an open area of the city on the holo map. "This is where we believe the White Fang will emerge, how they'll do that, we can't be sure, but when they do, your company will be in the thick of it "
"Captain Murray and his Marines will not be present at the opening stages of the operation. They are tasked with assisting Atlesian forces to ferry the deploying Beacon students to the field. Once that's done, they will support gaps being defended by a platoon of the 65th being led by Colonel Dvalin and a police force estimated at around fifteen officers."
The mentioned area glowed, showcasing models of troopers and police officers behind a barricade. Captain Murray himself nodded as he reviewed the map of Vale further.
"The other half of the 65th will be at Point Echo, where our field base will be. They are to take care of any civilians that are sent there and lead them further into the city where Vale emergency services can take over. They will also be using mortars for artillery support for any unit that requests it. Colonel Dvalin, I trust your captain is more than up to the task?"
The 65th's Colonel nodded, "Yes sir. Captain Moyai is one of my best artillery captains. He'll hit the target when it needs to be hit."
"Finally, Captain Foster, your task will be divided into two groups. You will deploy with two platoons outside the outskirts of Vale to engage with any incoming Grimm from beyond the walls. You will be supported by RAC-130 Crumble since we cannot deploy any armored assets on the ground. The rest of your company is to remain at Beacon to keep a watchful eye over the CCTS and Golf Shed Headquarters."
"Torrent Company won't disappoint sir," replied Foster, crackling his fists in anticipation.
Azure smiled, "I know you won't. Questions?"
"No sir!"
"To your posts then gentlemen, we leave for Vale in ten minutes," ordered the Field Marshal.
The officers nodded before splitting up to handle their orders. Azure adjusted a loose shoulder pad before he himself walked away towards the Gold Shed command center. As expected, Torrent Company was already there, with Luietenant Kol saluting him as he entered the building.
Inside, various field officers are still monitoring the progress of Ord Squad and the incoming ARC Troopers of Foxtrot 9. A frustrated officer was seen banging his console which piqued Azure's interest as he walked by. "Is there a problem?"
The officer looked towards him before nodding respectfully, "Yes sir. It's Ord Squad. They went dark after I told them to wait for Foxtrot 9. One of their own and team RWBY went missing and is believed to be in enemy hands."
"And what is Sergeant Gambit doing?"
"He cut comms and said that he and his squad will move in."
Azure pinched the bridge of his nose, "What are they doing now? Any feed from the helmet cameras?"
A shake of the head was his answer. "No sir. We believe they entered the underground areas to begin their search."
This wasn't good. In fact, this was bad. While he trusts that the members of Ord Squad are capable soldiers, he needed and wanted Foxtrot 9 to do the operation themselves because if Ord Squad went in, and one of team RWBY was also meaning, it stands to reason that the rest of the team will follow them. This creates a risk for everyone as it might trigger the attack earlier than anticipated, and Azure cannot have that.
"Get me in contact with Captain Hound," he ordered, the officer replying with an affirmative.
"Golf Shed, Foxtrot Actual. Send traffic," came the gruffer voice of the ex-Coruscant Guardsmen.
"Captain Hound, are you ready to enter the AO?"
"Negative, we have a problem with our gunship's stealth unit," replied the ARC Captain, "It'll take us thirty minutes at least to fix it. Is there something wrong sir?"
Azure held his tongue from cursing this sudden misfortune, "Yes, there's been a development with your operation. Do your repairs as quickly as you can and deploy once ready."
"Understood, Foxtrot 9, out here."
When the transmission ended, Azure ordered the field officer to try and keep tabs on Ord Squad's movements as best as he can before he himself rushed out of the command center. He looked at his watch and it now read 1 o clock and thirty minutes in.
"Damn it... Commander Moris," he called as he finally placed his helmet on, "Get the first transports to Vale now! We're moving up the timetables!"
The blue and white armored commander was soon beside him. "Very good sir! Miss Goodwitch is asking if she should wake the students up to deploy."
"Seniors first," replied the Marshal as he walked towards a waiting gunship.
"Seniors first, very good sir," repeated Moris as he stopped outside the LAAT whilst Azure entered it, "See you on the ground sir!"
Azure nodded and shouted back as the engines began to roar, "And you too Commander!"
The gunship soon took off to join the rest of the fleet of transports bound for Vale. Speed and time were now of the essence if they are to prevent any losses of life. The Field Marshal prayed to whatever cosmic being was present that he and his soldiers will make it in time.
...
The City of Vale, Vale
Ground zero.
This was what this place will be soon and if they weren't fast enough, there would be blood on their hands. Colonel Dvalin knew this more than anyone as he began directing the construction of the defenses for the points of interest that Field Marshal Azure had laid out. His first priority was to build the barricades that would increase their defensive hold around the streets.
His secondary objectives were being carried out by Captain Moyai who was at Point Echo, coordinating his own construction efforts for their forward base and field hospital. If there were to be an evacuation mission, then a field hospital will most certainly be of help for their cause.
Looking back at the barricades, he noted the increased presence of barbed wire, with the only issue being it was not secured enough to hold its ground against the creatures of Grimm that he studied about.
"Corporal Rimuru!" he yelled, catching the attention of the trooper in question.
"Yes sir!" he replied as he approached the Colonel. A look at him and back to the barricades, Dvalin began to give his subordinate instructions. "Take five men, and begin securing those barbed wire into the ground."
The corporal looked at the aforementioned wires before nodding, "Yes sir! I'm on it!" He then ran off to find volunteers to carry out the orders given to him.
Crossing his arms, Dvalin continued to inspect the works of each barricade, ensuring they would hold against even the strongest Grimm. Just then, a tap on his shoulder made him turn around to be face-to-face with the 501st's Commander. "Colonel Dvalin, the western quadrant of point Delta requires a turret battery. Think you can set up one there?"
"I'll go have a look, sir," replied the Colonel as he jogged his way towards the point.
Moris then looked at the residential buildings. The Vale Police Department was at the thick of the action in making sure the civilians leave the area. In some areas, members of Toro Company were already evacuating droves of refugees, with the odd argument, mostly from shopkeepers who would rather die than leave their stores unattended. People like them were either forcefully dragged out by the Guardsmen, or were handed over to the police for a more diplomatic approach.
From the distance, he can see Field Marshal Azure, staring at where the end of the metro tunnel ends. Right in the heart of the city square, enabling the White Fang to cause maximum casualties to the citizens of Vale.
While his leader may be wearing a helmet, Moris didn't need to look at his eyes to know that he was holding a look of determination for this operation to succeed, no matter what advantage they have to give up.
Mountain Glenn, Vale
Slick felt that he had been in less ideal situations, but being fully immobilized by not one, not two, not even three, but four White Fang insurgents, made him think if this situation took the cake. With his pistol gone, the only weapons he had left were his bayonet and his thermal detonators. The fact that he still had them suggested that either the White Fang was without a doubt the most moronic insurgent group he'd fought, or they were sure that the Guardsman couldn't escape their clutches... this time...
Looking around, he was met with the sight of Faunus loading explosives, munitions, mechs, and other various cargo aboard the longest train he'd ever seen. Whoever these insurgents were, they had chosen their mode of transportation wisely. Not only do they avoid the risk of being spotted by flight images, but they also most likely removed any possible way to trace such a locomotive without alerting anyone within the Kingdoms.
Just then, the person who he assumed was the squad leader called out to someone, "Hey boss! We found the intruders!"
"Then get rid of them already!" called a familiar voice, "Actually, wait, who are they?"
"An Atlesian soldier and a little girl," replied the Faunus.
Poking his head out of a train car, Roman Torchwick bit his lip and was genuinely surprised to see the two prisoners, those being Slick and Ruby. "Oh... things just got a little more interesting..."
Eyes now darted to the restrained huntress-in-training as the thief cupped her chin, "Well, well, well, Red. Now isn't this interesting? How'd you find this place kid?"
Not wanting to speak up, Ruby kept her mouth shut as Roman let go of her, evidently not happy that he didn't get an answer. So then his eyes turned to Slick, the trooper was on his knees as a gun was held against his head. "Maybe you'd be more talkative," his cane now pointed towards the clone's neck, "How'd you find us, soldier? You have any more friends around the city?"
Slick chuckled, "Wouldn't you like to know..."
The cane pressed further into his neck as Roman pressed on, "You can talk, good. How about telling me everything you know?"
He was met with another laugh from the clone, "I can talk, but can you listen? I am CT-8890 of the Beacon Security Forces, and I will not answer any question in regard to my mission, my identity, and the force."
"Listen, pal," spat Torchwick as he slammed the cane down on Slick's head, earning a grunt from the trooper and a plead for him to stop by Ruby, "I've heard that line so many times that if I had a lien for every time I did, I probably wouldn't be a thief. Now make it easier on yourself unless you want to die like the robot you Atlesians are."
"Go to hell," spat the Guardsman as he stumbled to get up, but was pushed back down by two Faunus.
"You've got some mouth," mused Roman as he twirled his cane, "How about we see it shall we?"
But when the thief's hands touched the helmet, Slick reacted violently as he butted the back of his head against one of the Faunus holding him by the hands, causing him to let go. He then slammed himself into his other captor, before pulling his bayonet from his scabbard and stabbing him in the chest.
When he got up to face Roman, he paused as he saw the thief point his cane towards Ruby, who had one other Faunus point a gun against her head. Once again being backed into a corner, Slick waited.
"You fight dirty soldier boy," remarked the thief as he twirled his cane around, "but you really ought to put your toys back again before anyone gets hurt."
Just then, the ground around them shook as an explosion rocked them around. With little concern, Roman pointed to the Faunus squad leader, "Perry, can you take some of the boys and check that out? I'm in the middle of something interesting right now."
The Faunus nodded, but before they could move, another explosion, one that was even louder rocked the cavern.
"Oh for god's sake, what on earth is going on here?" exclaimed the thief as he and everyone took a look at where the sound was coming from. Just then, squads of White Fang soldiers were seen running away from something, with anyone trying to fire back being dropped a second later.
From the smoke emerged twelve figures who were charging toward them. It was Ord Squad and RWBY, the latter leading the charge as the troopers gave covering fire while they advanced.
Seeking an opportunity to escape, Ruby used her semblance and disappeared into a cloud of rose petals, while Slick hobbled from behind, his leg still injured from the fall.
"Will somebody kill them?!" asked Torchwick as he raised his weapon alongside other White Fang grunts and began to open fire. Ruby, with her speed, dodged all of them, but Slick wasn't so lucky as he felt dust bullets bite into his armor. While it didn't penetrate, each impact caused him to lose his bearings that he almost tripped in his bad leg. Just as things were getting worse, he found himself and Ruby face to face with the retreating squads of White Fang. Their weapons were aimed right at them, and they had clear shots that even Slick wasn't sure he could take.
Before any triggers could be pulled, the Faunus felt themselves fly as a dust round from Yang's weapons sent them in all directions.
"Ruby!" she shouted in glee, her sister running towards her as she enveloped her in a loving embrace. The rest of RWBY also offered their leader their relief at seeing her unharmed. Ord Squad was similar in that regard as Jest and Vicker caught Slick as he hobbled over to his squad.
"Vod! You're alright!" laughed Jest as he helped Vicker tend to Slick's injuries, "Well... not dead at least."
"Has anyone ever told you that you suck at expressing relief?" snarked his partner before biting his lip as the squad medic injected him with some morphine. "How touching, now walk on that leg carefully. I don't have time to make a full treatment yet."
Taking the medic's advice with a nod, Slick graciously took his rifle from Jest before fixing his bayonet, "That's better."
Gambit then looked towards Ruby, "Miss Rose, are you alright? What's happening here?"
"Roman and the White Fang are loading all sorts of weaponry on their train," explained Ruby, "Robots, dust, weapons, everything that can hurt people!"
Doctor Oobleck began to speculate the situation, "But those rails don't lead anywhere outside the project... it only leads back to the city..."
"Then maybe that's their target," said Gambit, "They take those supplies to Vale and attack the capitol while no one from the Kingdom is ready... Damn it... Gus!"
"Sir!"
"We don't have a signal in this cave. Make me an opening in this cavern now!"
Gus' visor shone with glee as he unshouldered his rocket launcher. "Sir, yes sir!" He aimed upwards towards the cave's ceiling, using the fading moonlight from above the surface to help him find a target.
When he found his bounty, he called out to the squad, "Target acquired!"
"Back blast clear!" yelled Nozzle, who took a second glance behind Gus to make sure it was clear.
"Firing!"
The rocket flew as fast as a rocket should as it made its beeline toward the cavern's ceiling. The shot hit true as rubble from above fell and created a larger hole, and when Gambit found his comms unit receiving a signal, he was quick to contact HQ again.
"Golf Shed, Ord Actual, our rescue attempt is a success, but we have reason to believe that an attack train bound for Vale is departing soon."
"Ord Actual, we copy. Aurek Actual has already determined the area where that train might attack. Foxtrot 9 will be within the area to try and stop that train," replied the field officer from earlier.
Just then, PA systems within the White Fang's base began to blare out messages across the city. It seems that they were almost ready to depart, and Gambit wasn't sure if Azure's SOGs could arrive on time.
"Golf Shed, update on the train, they're going to depart anytime. Requesting permission to take team RWBY to intercept," Gambit said, his voice filled with concern.
A short pause from the other side of the comms didn't help in that regard, but the field officer gave the next orders, "Ord Actual, you have permission to do what you can to stop that train. Foxtrot 9 will clean up the Mountain Glenn outpost in your stead."
"Copy that, we're oscar mike. Ord Actual, out," replied the Sergeant before he nodded to the huntresses, "We're right behind you Miss Rose."
Chambering her sniper scythe, Ruby looked at the train with determination, "Alright guys... it's time to stop that train..."
The group sprinted as fast as they could, Slick was being supported by Vicker and Oobleck since he couldn't run as fast. Much to their horror, the train was beginning to move, slowly at first, but Slick knew better than to be hopeful that they'd reach it in time with him being carried.
"Leave me," he said, prompting Jest to stop as he looked at his brother.
"Are you crazy?! We never leave a brother behind!" he yelled, but Slick looked at him with a glare that could pierce their visors. "Jest, listen to me. If that train hits Vale, then we risk getting innocent lives taken. You won't leave me to die here anyway. The Marshal sent us back up, they'll get me out of here while you guys save the city."
Gambit bit his lip, "He's right..."
"Sarge! You can't possibly be thinking of-"
"Jest! Slick will be picked up by the ARC Troopers so we have to do our part, got it?!"
Killdane shouted from the front, "Train's picking up speed sir!"
"Go!" said Slick as he propped himself up, barely being able to stand, "Save who you can!"
Jest didn't want to leave his brother behind, and he cursed at himself since they spoke the truth. "You better stay alive, vod!"
"I'll do what I can, no matter the odds," said Slick, "Now go! Get outta here!"
The squad, painfully left the Guardsman to do their jobs, and that sat just fine with the lone trooper. From the distance, he could hear incoming foot soldiers that were left at the base. They were going to hold the group off, but they were too late to stop them, but not too late to kill Slick.
Poor bastards.
The first wave of soldiers pushed forward but was cut down as Slick fired his rifle on its fully automatic setting, dispensing rounds in seconds. A lone soldier got close to him, but one errant stab from him was blocked by Slick who then plunged his bayonet into the Faunus' throat. More of the White Fang grunts began to approach his position, and more bodies began to pile up at the entrance.
Slick quickly ejected another gas clip from his blaster before firing again at an incoming leopard Faunus, who had claws out and ready to strike. He dodged the swipe, at the cost of his footing, leading him to collapse on his back. Before the grunt could attack again, a shot went through their head. Slick cursed when he got back up, glad he was able to pull that shot off.
He heard more incoming and he knew he had worse odds of surviving, so he did the next best thing. He hid behind an opening as he used his HUD to check his ammo. He still had a few more shots available, but he wasn't sure if he can take anyone out with him being this outnumbered. Then, he remembered the thermal detonator clipped to his belt which allowed for a dark idea to form in his mind.
"Better than nothing..." he thought to himself before contacting his squad, his voice trying to be quiet as possible, "Sergeant, what's your status?"
"We're on the train engaging with the Fang. Gus! Hit that Paladin again!" Gambit said over the comm, "What about you Slick?"
"...compromised. I'm surrounded and I don't see Foxtrot 9 anywhere... I might have to rig myself to blow to avoid capture..."
"What?!" Slick had to guess it was Jest, "Slick! You can't!"
"Damn it, Jest. I don't think I have a choice, I'm sorry brothers... Sarge, if you somehow see Captain Rex and Commander Cody, tell them I said clean slate," resigned the trooper, "It's been an honor brothers. Live to fight another day..."
"Slick! Wait!"
He turned off the comms unit again. He couldn't bare to listen to the cries of his squad, not when he was ready to do what almost any clone would feel honor to do. Fight for the Republic, if not, for their brothers of the Clone Army.
Just then, he heard a voice, "He's close by! I can smell him!"
Slick took a deep breath as he pressed a button on his belt, the beeping of a detonator following it. It was now or never as the 501st Guardsman, using what little strength he had left, charged his opponents.
"AAARRGGHHH!"
This took every Faunus nearby by surprise, as the trooper stabbed the closest soldier, he was already dead on the spot as the blade pierced his jaw. Slick withdrew his rifle from his victim and he quickly fired his rifle again, taking down three more Faunus. Each shot was well-timed, causing further chaos amongst the remaining soldiers.
Stabbing another Faunus who was unfortunately close to him, Slick felt himself stop in his tracks as a bear-like figure picked him up and began choking him. A smile adorned the insurgent's face as he remarked, "Impressive for Atlesian scum, but you have murdered enough of my people and now it's time for you to meet your end."
Slick couldn't find the strength to reach his rifle anymore as the weapon fell to the floor, so he grabbed something else. His thermal detonator was now beside his, and the Faunus' face. The latter's smile turned into a gasp as he realized what was in front of him. With his other hand, the trooper tore off his helmet and revealed to everyone still alive around him his tanned face. He still maintained his flattop cut, with the shaved sides, and his eyes burned with a drive to go out on his own terms as he shouted with the last of his strength.
"FOR THE REPUBLIC!"
The cave shook again, but no more blaster or gunfire would sound off again.
...
The train was a mess of blood, bodies, and weapons as the remainder of Ord Squad were relentless in their attack. Gambit thrust his bayonet right into a dog Faunus' face before throwing him off to the side like a ragdoll. He sprinted forward as he caught up to Killdane who unloaded more blaster fire into the oncoming soldiers.
"These guys don't understand the meaning of outmatched," spat Killdane as he reloaded his rifle, "and tactics too! They just keep going at us one by one!"
Gambit shot another soldier in the head as he agreed, "Makes it easier for us, but we can't stay here for too long!"
Just then, a flaming ball of fur flew over their heads again as they watched Zwei, who brought up several questions within the squad, fly towards another Paladin before the impact toppled the helpless mech off the train.
"Jest! Take point! Squad, push on! We have to get to the engine stat!" yelled the Sergeant as he waved his squad forward.
"Yes sir!"
He was thankful the battle was as brutal as it was because it provided ample distraction for his men from the reality that one of their own may be dead. It helped him take the casualty off his mind too. His squad moved further in as they watched Ruby thin out a horde of White Fang soldiers, creating an opening for them to exploit.
Gus then pulled out a round detonator and he tossed it below the car they stood on. The explosion that followed alongside the subsequent screams of pain from below satisfied him as he formed alongside his squad in a staggered firing line. He ducked as he heard Doctor Oobleck issue a warning behind him as he gracefully leaped forward, his thermos/weapon impacting the train cars caused more Faunus to fall off.
"Ruby! Take Ord Squad forward and get to the engine! By my estimates, we have half an hour to stop the train before it reaches the borders and another half hour till it reaches the end!" yelled the Doctor.
"Got it! What about you!?" asked RWBY's leader.
"Don't worry about me, Miss Rose. It's time for me to teach these scoundrels a lesson!"
Ruby nodded but looked down to see Zwei whimpering about leaving the doctor behind. She smiles and nods for him to join him as she looked towards Gambit. "Ready to go, sir?"
"Lead the way, ma'am," saluted the sergeant as he got ready to charge.
"Go!"
"ORD SQUAD! CHARGE!"
"RRAAAGGHHH!"
Breaking through the lines of Faunus militants, the makeshift squad worked well together. Gambit used the many openings that Ruby made as he and the rest of his squad followed the huntress into battle. Killdane leaped over a flying insurgent as he encouraged the men to press forward and to leave no quarter.
"Come on lads! Let's go!"
"Send them back to their maker!"
"Make them eat heat!"
A Fang soldier suddenly emerged from the side, ambushing Hex as he was moving forward. The trooper was about to call for help when a sniper shot took his assailant out. His head turned to see his savior, them being Ruby Rose as she saluted Hex before continuing her push.
Eventually, they reached the end of the train where her team emerged from the locomotive. Blake pointed towards the engine as she explained the development, "They sabotaged the brakes! We can't stop it in time!"
Gambit saw another barrier coming up, "Gus!"
"On it!"
He aimed his last rocket at the gate and took a split second to check his back before he pulled the trigger. The projectile hit its mark, opening up the gates and allowing a safer passage for the combatants on top.
"I'd guess we have a minute before we hit Vale," muttered Gambit, "Hiding in the train will crush us, so if anyone has any bright ideas, now's the time to use them."
Ruby smiled at Weiss who understood the assignment as she began to use her semblance and dust to form an ice barrier around the group. The clones looked in wonder as the shield completed itself. Gambit looked at Killdane, the latter nodding at him in understanding as the troopers and the huntresses braced for impact.
City of Vale, Vale
Lieutenant Loch looked at the wall which the BSF anticipated to be the location of the breach. The sun was already rising over the horizon as his HUD's watch read 0554, more than four hours since they deployed en masse at the capitol city. The majority of Toro Company hid behind the barricades erected by the 65th, with some troopers assisting in escorting the remaining civilians to the evacuation site.
He heard boots moving towards him as he turned to see his Legion Commander walk towards him, DC-15S carbine in one hand as he leaned forward on the barrier. His fingers were on the safety switch as if he was waiting for even the slightest signs of an attack.
"No contact from your boys yet Loch?" asked Moris.
"Negative, commander. Not since I left Golf Shed yesterday," replied Loch, his voice uncertain as he fidgeted with his rifle's sights. He then looked at the civilians being escorted by a sharpshooter squad. "How many did we evacuate from this block?"
Moris looked back towards the direction of Point Echo, "About ninety-eight percent of the block's population. The only ones left are over at the eastern side of our position being escorted by Trev."
The platoon officer nodded as he continued to wait for... anything really. Moris understood the reason why the officer was nervous, and that was because he volunteered Ord Squad on what could be a fatal assignment. Every clone officer hated taking casualties, and Loch was no exception, especially since it was his platoon that stormed the fortress at Ord Mantel.
Just then, the ground below them began to shake as troopers looked towards the wall that they'd come to identify as "the Michael Hotel". Moris' comms began to ring as he thumbed the answer button.
"Blue Leader, Torrent Actual. Ground just shook below us and we're tracking a horde coming towards are five hundred yards of our position. Are we weapons-free?"
"Torrent Actual, weapons free. Contact Crumble 1-1 for fire support, good luck Captain," replied Moris.
"Copy that, Torrent Company! Open fire!" shouted Foster from his side of the comms as blaster fire erupted over the borders.
Just then, a transmission from the Field Marshal came out, "All BSF elements, brace for attack!"
"GET DOWN!" yelled Moris to his troopers and they did so without question as they ducked behind the barricades as an explosion opened up the wall and threw debris everywhere, breaking the roads, buildings, and the like. Troopers grunted and cursed when the odd piece of debris hit the area where they hid.
Smoke and dust began to envelop the area as troopers began to peak out from their barricades, their weapons already off their safeties. Sharpshooters hidden in the buildings took aim as they waited for anything to come out and attack. One Sergeant Tongue of the Toro's sharpshooters used his visor's enhanced HUD to see through the smoke. A female human figure could be seen in the dust and he began to aim his rifle for a killing shot. Several more emerged from the clouds, but these resembled... clones!
Tounge's finger moved away from the trigger as he reported the sight to his superiors. Loch was the first to lead a squad from his platoon to retrieve the friendly forces. He managed to locate Corporal Killdane, one of the first troopers to get up from the crater that was caused by the train crash.
"Killdane, get up!" ordered the lieutenant as he pulled him to his feet. He struggled, but Ord Squad's second in command managed to keep his footing as he coughed. "Good to see you again sir."
Another cough came from a different rock and upon turning his head saw Gambit, using his rifle as a makeshift crutch as he moved away from the crater. Upon looking even further, Loch saw the rest of the Ord Squad in a similar state as they were either crawling or rising from their injured states.
"Ord Squad... reporting for duty LT," coughed Gambit as he finally managed to stand straight without his rifle acting as a crutch. Behind him, Vicker began to tend to team RWBY and his squad mates alike. He was very particular in treating a head injury that Weiss sustained as he applied pressure with a gauze pad. Jest was frantically looking back at the tunnel, while Gus checked his rocket launcher before throwing it on the ground.
Around them, several troopers watched with wonder at the sudden return of one of their squads and the huntresses. Moris himself was about to go and meet them when the ground shook again. Ruby, realizing where they now stood yelled with all her might.
"EVERYONE! GET TO SAFETY!"
As soon as she yelled, a King Taijitu sprung from the wreckage of the train. Clones were mortified at the sight before them, albeit temporarily before a new figure stepped up beside them.
It was Field Marshal Azure, now head-to-toe dressed in his full armor as he drew his sword before giving them their newest orders. "OPEN FIRE!"
Not even a split second later, the entirety of the defenders began to unload their blasters into the beast before them. Ord Squad, RWBY, and Loch paused for a moment before they to began to fire upon the massive Grimm.
"Gambit, get your men back to the lines! RWBY, cover our retreat! MOVE!" ordered Loch as he fired his rifle, its fully automatic setting dispensing hundreds of bolts within seconds.
"ON IT! ORD SQUAD! ON ME!" yelled Gambit as he and his men began to retreat to the nearest barricades, firing back as much as they can.
Team RWBY was quick to act as well as they used their agility to quickly maneuver through both the Grimm's attack and the incoming blaster fire from the clones. The clock struck 0600 and the battle of Vale's breach has begun.
...
"Jesse! Mark that goliath!" yelled Foster, as he directed the ARC Trooper under his command to the direction of the mammoth-like Grimm. Jesse understood the assignment as he used a hand-held range finder to mark the aforementioned Grimm.
It's been a few minutes since Torrent Company came into contact with the Grimm hordes beyond the border, and to say it was as bad as their experience in Beacon's initiation would be underselling the reality of what is truly going on. The fighting men of the 501st Legion were giving it their all, but sometimes a strong will to fight wasn't everything to win a battle.
Case in point when Foster spoke into his comm unit, "Crumble! Target marked! Go for turbo lasers!"
"Copy that Captain, air support inbound." The Crumble's own captain's voice was one of confidence and calm, meaning that his run would be very successful.
Above them, the heavily modified Charger C70 frigate flew overhead, escorted by two ARC-170s as it began to strafe the battlefield beyond Vale. The ship began to tilt slightly to its right, exposing one of her heavy turbolaser guns. Then, the first shot came down as a loud blast from the skies above. The Goliath that threatened to rush Torrent's stand was staggered, and when it tried to move forward again, another shot shook the ground.
This caught Foster by surprise as a turbolaser, even if heavy, wouldn't have that kind of effect, so when he looked up again, the smoking main cannon of the Crumble was his answer as it began to circle around and continue to fire its weapons.
Beside him, Coric raised his head above their makeshift trench and chuckled, "Yeah, Hopper isn't exactly the most normal captain in the Navy."
"What do you mean by that?" asked Torrent's Captain as he continued to fire his twin pistols into the waves of Grimm.
"Believe it or not, he's the reason why the AC-130 exists," replied Coric, "The best part is, the only reason he managed to make it happen was that he turned the CEOs of both Kuat and Rothana into his drinking buddies!"
Foster looked at his medical officer as if he were mad, but when he thought about it, it made sense... somehow. A beowolf that got too close to him cut that thought short as he dodged the attack before firing his twin pistols in rapid succession into the beast. He muttered a curse to himself before he shifted his attention back to the battle at hand.
He certainly hoped that the other sectors were doing fine.
...
Within the confines of Vale's borders, men of the 65th Engineering and Artillery Regiment stood their ground as they awaited for reported Grimm that was coming their way. A few minutes earlier, the first line of defense forfeited their position to reorganize and regroup with the other elements of Toro Company that waited behind. As such, this retreat allowed Grimm to bypass some of the defenses that Dvalin erected.
Beside the Colonel, a sergeant of Vale's police department checked his weapon, a shotgun, nervously. The same could be said for the rest of the officers under his command as they fidgeted around.
Soon, a howl beyond their sights shifted everyone's attention to the source.
It seems they were about to have company as the 65th's platoon and the VPD readied their weapons. Somewhere down the line, Corporal Rimuru activated a sentry turret that they assembled as he set it to open fire on any Grimm they see.
Then, they appeared.
Beowolves, Ursai, and other Grimm types rushed their line, and nobody needed the order to open fire as blasters and firearms unleashed hell on the beasts. Dvalin's handheld mortar roared to life as it launched concentrated energy blasts that took down any Grimm within the vicinity of its area of impact. The sentry turret was firing in full auto as its advanced AI spotted and eliminated targets quickly. Vale's police officers worked in a steady beat as they steeled themselves, their gunshots hitting most of their marks.
But as they kept firing, the Grimm started to get closer. A beowolf managed to get past most of the fire as it attacked Dvalin, disarming him off his prized weapon. Frustrated, the Colonel held the wolf-like beast's jaws away from him with one hand as he slowly grabbed his secondary weapon from his back, that being a scattergun. A simple pull of the trigger sent black liquid flying from the beast as Dvalin shot it in the head before pushing the beast off.
He was helped up by Rimuru who began to check on him, "Any injuries sir?"
Dvain shook his head, "No. I'm fine, now get back into the fight soldier."
"Yes sir!"
Checking on his mortar, Dvalin gave it a firm pat to see if anything was loose. When no noise came out, he sighed in relief as he began to continue firing.
"For Vale!" shouted a police officer, his colleagues echoing the chant as they began to lose their fear, replacing it with determination to see the city and its people safe. Dvalin couldn't help but smile at the display.
"That's the spirit!" yelled a clone.
"Keep up the fire boys!"
"Reloading! Cover me!"
The Colonel knew that this was only the beginning, but if the Marshal's plan was to succeed, then he, his men, and the police force of Vale had to make every second count till either the Grimm stopped, or they perish with their line. With these choices, failure was certainly not an option.
...
Marshal Azure looked at the display before him. His first line of defense made an orderly retreat to a secondary defensive line that was more fortified with sentry emplacements, metal spike hedges, and even a few pillboxes. Toro Company was hard-pressed to hold the line as best as they can, especially when it comes to stronger Grimm. Somewhere in front of the defensive lines was team RWBY who picked off the more difficult variants of Grimm to help the BSF hold the line.
Beside him, he found Captain Sixers repeatedly shooting at a paralyzed beowolf who pounced on him. Looking at the Marshal, he nodded as if telling him he was alright and able to fight, which helped Azure reassure that his prized company can still hold. His comms unit soon rang and upon answering, a sharp report came from Captain Foster.
"Foster to Actual, first wave of Beacon students are within the vicinity. General Ironwood has also deployed his Knights Battalion at Point Echo," reported the Marine captain over the comms. Looking above, Azure was greeted by the sight of Ironwood's flagship flying above as it deployed bullhead transports that most likely housed numerous squads of Atlas' newest mechanical soldiers. Amongst them, were bullhead transports that had a distinguishable symbol of Beacon Academy, and the LAAT/i variants of the BSF, and subsequently the Grand Army of the Republic's gunships, their red and white color patterns being the most distinguishable among the aircraft above.
"Reinforcements! Reinforcements have arrived!" cheered a clone, the phrase filling the defenders with renewed vigor as they continued to open fire at the Grimm.
Then, a warning from Yang made the troopers shift their attention to a series of thuds coming toward them, "Guys! Check your front! We got more incoming!"
The troopers looked more closely as they were met with the sight of a wave of Ursai coming towards them at full sprint. Without hesitating, the clones began to open fire, their shots landing, yet only staggering the stronger breed of Grimm. Team RWBY was once again on edge as the wave of Grimm crept closer to the thin blue line that was Toro Company.
Suddenly, several blasts echoed across the street as a pink blur sped across the skies of Vale. Azure did a double take when he realized it was a PINK blur, and he could only take a guess on what was about to happen. The phenomenon came in the form of Nora Valkyrie, who landed right in front of the herd of Ursai and with her hammer, swung them away as if they were golf balls, most likely never to be seen again if that powerful swing was anything to go by.
Just then, the rest of team JNPR came up behind the line as Jaune approached Beacon's Chief of Security. "Professor Azure! Team JNPR reporting for duty!"
The Marshal frowned under his helmet, he was under the impression that he ordered senior students first. He made his thoughts known to the blonde leader who cleared the reason why he and subsequently more first-year teams were here. "Fourth and Third years were redeployed to the outskirts of the city, Second and First years are being assigned to defend here."
Well, Azure couldn't argue with that reasoning, not that he planned to in this situation. He watched team JNPR join in the fray in front as he heard more boots behind him clatter on the asphalt roads as Captain Murray and a portion of a platoon of his own troopers arrived. "Sir!" the captain greeted, "I have half my unit at the designated point already, orders sir?"
"Man the guns, Murray," replied Azure before signaling to Moris, "Commander, do you have proper coordinates for Captain Moyai's mortars?"
"Yes sir!" yelled Moris as he fired his blaster carbine into a stray Grimm that caught his sight, "We aim for the Kilo Tango?"
"Indeed! Inform him that he will fire in thirty seconds, and will cease firing in ten!" the Marshal then turned to Sixers, "Sixers, we might be able to gain momentum here! Pass the word to your men! The whole company will advance back to the front line!"
Sixers nodded, "Will do Marshal!" He then activated his comms, the frequency being that of his own company as he relayed the next orders. Shouting them seemed to be necessary as the mortars from the rear began to open fire.
"TORO COMPANY! PREPARE TO ADVANCE!" he yelled as he checked his rifle, "FIX BAYONETS BOYS!"
Instead of the usual synchronized order that the Guard Regiment usually practices, the intensity of combat didn't require such a show. Nevertheless, the discipline of the clones did not falter as they managed to attach their blades to their rifles in near-perfect order. Guardsmen who were earlier manning the sentry emplacements, allowed their Marine counterparts to take over so the former could join their unit.
Moris tapped Sixers on the shoulder, "Five seconds Captain! You wait for the word!"
Mortar shells continued to land on the position where the King Taijitu breached the border. Inside his head, Sixers began to steel himself as he slowly counted the seconds of the bombardment.
Five...
Four...
Three...
Two...
One...
Beside him, a trooper who Sixers recognized as the company's bugler looked at him, waiting for the word to begin blowing, his hands grasped his instrument with anticipation. Then, the Marshal stood tall, his armor making him stand out far more than others as he drew his sword and pointed forward. "ADVANCE!"
Now...
"CHARGE!"
"RAAGGHHHH!"
All fear left the troopers as they leaped from their positions and made a mad dash forward, catching the huntsmen and huntresses-in-training by complete surprise as a tidal wave of blue and white soldiers pushed past them as they began shouting with a fire burning as bright as the suns of Tatooine. To see an army be this determined was new to these students, but not unwelcome as they followed them to the battlefield that was the ground zero of the Breach.
"KEEP MOVING BOYS! GIVE IT ALL YOU GOT!"
"SHOW THESE BEASTS THAT THEY'VE MESSED WITH THE WRONG ARMY!"
"THAT'S THE STUFF!"
"FIRE THROUGH! MAKE EVERY SHOT COUNT!"
Behind the mass of Guardsmen, the Marines of the 5th Fleet continued to open fire on Grimm beyond the former's reach with weapons such as their carbines, rifles, and Z6 rotary cannons. Beneath his helmet, Captain Foster smiled as he watched his brothers give the Grimm cold steel. No one could blame the usually strict officer as the Marshal's forces cut- nay, PLOUGH through the Grimm as if they were grass. No one can doubt that there are many great soldiers within the galaxy, but the 501st Toro Company was second to none.
At the front, Gambit stabbed another beowolf before shoving it off his blade. His squad, now once again integrated into the company, did not slow or falter as they fought their way through the black creatures that sought to bring destruction. Just then, he heard an Ursa slam another guardsman nearby into the ground and was about to kill him before it suddenly got punched to smithereens as he watched Yang deliver a powerful blow to the beast. Her partner, Blake helped the fallen trooper up, with the latter expressing his thanks as he continued to move forward.
"COME ON BROTHERS!" yelled Sixers as he pointed forward, "DON'T FALTER! THE FINISH LINE IS RIGHT THERE!"
The Captain was right too, as Ruby would observe. The forces arrived at the breach and the handiwork of the 65th mortar gunners showed, the most serious threat on the ground that being the King Taijitu was replaced by a smoking crater. What remained of the Grimm faltered upon receiving the full brunt of the huntsmen and the 501st's firepower combined.
Just then, heels echoed across the street as everyone was greeted by the sight of Beacon's Deputy Headmistress who looked more furious as she marched forward with determination. Behind her, Marshal Azure followed closely behind as he ordered the advance to halt. "HALT! ALL FORCES HALT!"
No sooner did he say that, did Goodwitch act as she began to summer her aura at full strength as debris everywhere began to glow a purple hue. Then, the street began to reassemble as she used her semblance. No one dared to interrupt her, and not even the Grimm were capable of occupying her a beowolf was promptly stopped by Lieutenant Loch as he drove his bayonet through its throat.
Finally, the street was reassembled in full as the last of the debris was put back into place. Much to Azure and by extension, his men's surprise the once battlefield returned to its original state as if it hadn't been attacked by the Grimm. An alluring peace filled the air as the sirens stopped and the noises of Grimm began to dissipate.
Azure's comms began to ring again as he began to receive another report from other sectors.
"Torrent to Actual, our sector reports multiple hordes of retreating Grimm. Huntsmen are cleaning up the board already."
"Crumble to Actual, we detect no more major ground or aerial targets. We're pulling out now. ARC-170s will remain on station to clean up the air."
"Dvalin to Actual, all Grimm within our sector have been eliminated."
Similar reports began to come through as the clones broke into a cheer over their victory. Behind the Marshal, Moris cleared his throat to get the former's attention. "The Vale Police Department completed their headcount. No casualties from their side, and civilians. We did it sir."
"Indeed," said a voice from afar as Headmaster Ozpin walked towards the assembled group. "A great victory was won today Mister Azure, thanks to your efforts, the city of Vale managed to prepare and counter this threat. I have good word that the Council is most pleased by this news, but they will want to speak to us both."
Azure paused as he looked at the sight behind him. His men were in a full celebratory mood, with a trooper waving the GAR standard in the air. The students were very much in the same mood as they joined the BSF in their impromptu celebration.
In the back, a stern Oobleck, with the help of Professor Port shoved Roman Torchwick into the care of four 5th Fleet Marines. Captain Murray seemed to be most pleased about capturing the thief as he led the prisoner escort detail into a gunship.
Looking back at Ozpin, Azure relented, "Very well. After you Headmaster."
...
Point Echo was a hub of activity as both Vale's paramedics, and the BSF's worked tirelessly in patching up the wounded clones that were sent from the front line. It put Azure at unease as he and Ozpin arrived at a secluded area of the FOB.
The Headmaster placed his scroll on a projector and waited for it to link before showing the figures of three Councilors from Vale. Their figures were undistinguishable as they were under the guise of silhouettes. Azure raised an eyebrow at Ozpin who simply sipped on the contents of his mug.
Finally, one of them spoke, "Ozpin, Mister Azure. We thank you for contacting us as quickly as you can."
Ozpin coughed as he eyed the councilmen with concern. "Councilman, I apologize for being rather abrupt about this, but Mister Azure here will be very busy in organizing the clean-up and the withdrawal of his own forces from Vale and back to my Academy."
"Of course! Of course! Let's get to business gentlemen. The Kingdom of Vale is forever grateful for your work in preventing the loss of possible civilian lives. Had it not been for your intervention, then the Kingdom might not be able to host the Vytal Festival this year."
Azure gritted his teeth behind his helmet as he waited for the meeting to end.
"Now, it has recently come to our attention that your forces have operated within the city a few times already. Is this correct Mister Azure?"
What was he trying to do? "That is correct Councilor, we have operated a few times prior to this incident. Of course, we did ask for permission from the VPD so that no trouble will arise when we do."
"Yes, we were informed as such," the councilor said, "It has also reached this council that you are not from Atlas despite your technology."
"We do not hail from them," said Azure, his voice rather stern, "What seems to be the problem? If it's our origins, then I shall tell you that we are simply from beyond the Four Kingdoms' borders. We do not answer to any Kingdom, but we are more than happy to answer and assist the Kingdom of Vale due to our connection to Beacon Academy."
"...Very interesting Mister Azure... but no, we have no qualms with the work you have done. That said, we would like to inquire if you, and your forces will participate in the Vytal Festival's security detail."
"We will Councilor. Is that all?"
"Yes, thank you, Mister Azure. Ozpin, we trust that you will be able to handle the security of the festival. General Ironwood also wishes to inform you that he fully supports any other action that you will take."
"My thanks to him, and you Councilors," replied the Headmaster.
"Good day gentlemen."
Soon, the transmission ended as Ozpin's scroll closed. Azure took off his helmet as he rubbed his head. "No matter what galaxy, politicians are almost always the same I tell you."
Ozpin simply offered him a cup of coffee from seemingly nowhere, but the Marshal was not about to deny such a generous offer as he drank the warm drink with gusto. Just then, Commander Moris entered the tent, a datapad in his hands as he stopped near the two men.
"Sir, Foxtrot-9 has returned. We... have a casualty report," his voice was solemn as he gave the Marshal the datapad.
When Azure read the report, his eyes widened as he read the name and ID of the casualty he sustained.
"Ozpin... I would like to ask a favor," he said softly as he laid down the datapad on a table.
On the screen, read the register of 501st's Toro Company, a single name was highlighted in red with a cross over a clone helmet.
"CT-8890, Private Slick | Ord Squad, 1st Platoon | 2nd Toro Company: KIA"
Emerald Forest, Kingdom of Vale
Sergeant Gambit was looking at the visor of his own helmet. The 501st blue markings almost blended in the dark night that shrouded the Emerald Forest in its entirety. Beside him, the rest of Ord Squad was present as they cleaned their armor till there was not a scratch nor smudge on the plates of their armor. Then, a shuffle alerted him to a new presence as Lieutenant Loch walked towards them.
"Gambit, are you ready?" asked the platoon officer. His voice had a hint of sadness, but a still resolute tone to it. The squad leader knew it well as he had the same tone when he replied.
"Yes sir," replied the Guardsman NCO. Loch nodded as he ordered the squad to put their helmets on and follow him out of the ruins that they sat in. Outside, the clones were met by the sight of not one Company, not two, and not even three. What they saw was all four companies of the Guard Regiment's 1st Battalion. Units of the same color, yet different identifying symbols, and patterns stood in columns, rifles polished, bayonets fixed and facing forward toward a pit. Near the front was Field Marshal Azure, once more dressed in his white coat, black trousers, boots, and cap. Adorning his chest was his rank card with code cylinders, and over his shoulders was his white cloak that reached his legs.
His eyes were hidden behind the cap's visor, and his mouth showed no expression whatsoever, leaving one to think about what was going on through the Field Marshal's head. Beside him was Headmaster Ozpin, the latter's assistant Glynda Goodwitch, Professors Port and Oobleck, Marshal Commander Moris, and the Colonel of the Guard Regiment, Maitland. Behind them, were two teams of huntsmen and huntresses-in-training, RWBY and JNPR.
Gambit couldn't help but be saddened by the expression that Ruby held. From her account of what happened down below, Slick may very be the reason why she was alive, and his death at Mountain Glenn deeply troubled her.
Lighting the ruins of the Emerald Forest were torches that barely lit up the clearing, yet with how many of them were placed around the field, they still managed to shine upon the entirety of the battalion. Then, he looked behind him and saw the reason why he and practically everyone else was there. A wooden coffin was placed on the ground between the members of the Ord Squad. Engraved on the door was Slick's name, CT number, and his rank, Sergeant.
When news of Slick's demise reached the Marshal, in the spirit of sending him off one last time with dignity, he restored the former disgraced trooper's original rank to the time he lead his own squad back in the Christophsis Campaign. Finally, placed on the coffin was the Guardsman's helmet, yet everyone knew it was simply a replica.
Foxtrot 9 returned earlier with the only returnable remains of Slick being his battered helmet. Due to the damage sustained, the helmet was replicated with the addition of the sunvisor that all Sergeants of the Guard had.
Then, the mass drums of all the companies began to play their drums to a solemn beat. It was now time, for the ceremony to begin as Gambit nodded to his squad to pick up their brother. Gambit himself was at the front of the coffin, the left corner resting on his shoulders as a voice from the front of got his attention.
"GUARD OF THE DEAD! PREPARE TO ADVANCE!" echoed Maitland's voice, the clone Colonel was full of authority that could rival a general's.
Ord Squad stomped their right foot to signal that they were ready. A path between the formation was open, allowing plenty of room for them to walk through. A total of twelve guards were posted along the path, all from Toro Company's various platoons. Instead of facing forward, these men faced the center with their rifles in the shoulder arms position.
Captain Sixers, his ceremonial vibrosword drawn, yelled at the assembled twelve-man honor guard "GUARD OF HONOR WILL PRESENT ARMS! PREEESEEEENT... ARMS!"
The guard of honor followed the orders as they held their rifles vertically in perfect synchronization, their own boots stomped upon completion.
Maitland soon gave the next orders. "THE PARADE WILL FACE THE CENTER! CENTER... FACE!"
It was then, did their visitors realize the sheer magnitude of the spectacle before them as the sound of a thousand boots echoed across the forest, the 1st Battalion of the Guards now facing towards the center of the path.
Gambit knew it was time. He then stomped his right foot as he began to yell his own orders. "GUARD OF THE DEAD WILL ADVANCE! BY THE CENTER, SLOW MARCH!"
Slowly, the remaining members of Ord Squad slowly marched to the beat that the clone drummers played. Each step was more painful for them than the next, but every clone knew, this was the harsh reality of a soldier's life.
As the coffin passed each guard of honor, the pair that they would pass would stomp and place the butt of their rifle on the ground. Each guard pair would do the same as Slick's squad moved on.
Finally, they reached the front of the parade, which prompted Maitland to bark at the parade. "THE PARADE WILL FACE FORWARD! FORWARD... FACE!"
Like before, a thousand boots stomped on the ground as the battalion faced forward, looking at their deceased brother's final resting place. Captain Sixers looked at his own troops, the twelve-man unit waiting for orders.
"GUARD OF HONOR! SHOULDER... ARMS!" The men complied as they raised their rifles from the ground and placed themselves back into their original pose.
Ord Squad soon placed the coffin on the pit, synchronizing the lowering of their squadmate. Then, they stood to attention before marching off to the side near the pit where they were put on to stand at ease.
Stepping up a podium, was Marshal Azure as he activated the microphone and after a few seconds began to speak. "The sad reality when it comes to life is that we can be given life so easily, yet we can also be taken just as easily. This fact is compounded for a soldier's life, especially one for the likes of us. Slick knew that and as do all of you, but that never hampered your ability to stay in this army instead of dropping your arms to live more peaceful lives. While most generals would be through the roof that they've only really lost one man from their army, I do not. Especially with an army such as you, because simply put, everyone in this army is a brother. To some who are out of the know, you are all brothers in more ways than one."
Azure took a moment as he looked at the assembly before him. He cannot read their expressions, but he could only hope that they understood the weight of his words as he continued. "Sergeant Slick was in this army a long time ago, and during that time, he disgraced himself. Yet when his chance to redeem himself came, he took it in a heartbeat and made sure to let everyone know that they made the right choice in giving him his second shot. Wherever he is now, we can only have faith that he is in eternal peace."
Then, the entirety of the parade stomped their boots into the ground one last time in sync with the drums of the band, signaling their agreement with the Marshal's statements. Maitland nodded towards Gambit, the latter looking at his Colonel to receive the final orders for the ceremony. At the center of the formation, the twelve-man Honor Guard marched to the front as they formed a firing line before the coffin.
Ord Squad's Sergeant gestured to his men as they walked to Slick's coffin one last time. Each member gave their own goodbye, with Gambit going first as he whispered to the wooden box, "Goodbye vod, it was an honor to have you in my squad."
Killdane went next as he softly knocked on the coffin twice, before placing a small bottle of Christophsis brandy. "One last for the road brother."
Hex placed a pillow on the coffin, "Sorry you couldn't sleep on this one last time Slick..."
"Till we meet again brother," whispered Nozzle as he placed his hand on the coffin.
Pipe walked up to the coffin as he took a belt that was folded and locked onto his own hip. He placed it down on the coffin and whispered his own farewell.
Vicker was next as he placed a canister of bacta on the coffin, "Here's some for you, and our other vod above, Slick."
Gus, the usually happy-go-lucky clone wasn't such tonight as he placed two empty thermal detonators, "I remember using these to prank you when I first met you... that was fun... I just never thought you'd go out with one of them... goodbye Slick."
Finally, came Jest as he slowly walked to the coffin. The Guardsman looked at the wooden box with an unreadable look before he took a helmet from his Sergeant. It was Slick's own helmet, the faint marks of the 501st still adorned on them, with the only issue of it being deformed and charred. Jest held it close to his own bucket as he sighed in defeat, "Thank you Slick... for being my partner in this squad... I know whatever you did back in Christophsis was treasonous, but I have a feeling Rex and Cody will be able to look past that. Goodbye Slick, you fought the good fight vod."
With the last words said, the rest of Ord Squad stepped back as Sergeant Gambit drew a lit torch. The fire blazing hard as the clone walked towards the pit of his brother's final resting place. Then, he dropped the torch into the pit, setting it, and the coffin ablaze. Toro Company's bugler then began to play a somber tune as Captain Sixers called to the Honor Guard, "GUARD OF HONOR WILL EXECUTE THE TWENTY-ONE GUN SALUTE! READY!"
The twelve Guardsmen raised their rifles as they primed their rifles.
"AIM!"
The rifles pointed up to the night sky.
"FIRE!"
Twelve blaster bolts shot into the sky.
"FIRE!"
Another volley.
"FIRE!"
And then another.
"FIRE!"
As they continued to fire, Gambit and Ord Squad watched as the coffin burned well and bright into the night. On the wooden box, both of Slick's helmets charring and melted due to the extreme heat. This day was a great victory for Azure, yet the sad truth of battle is that what's worse than a lost battle is a battle won.
Holy shit and that is a CUT! Volume 2 is well and truly over, and soon we can dive into Volume 3! NOW! In the meantime, I would like to remind everyone that the next chapter will be my Q&A session for everyone who reads and follows. I will release this next week, so starting this day until 21, start sending me reviews, critiques, questions, and any of the like in either the on-site reviews or my Discord user: Coffee-kun#1423.
Now's my cue to leave as this is where I get off. Stay safe and stay frosty because that's soldiering!