Not My Final Form by GorgonEyed
Prereq: Escape
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James Ironwood was taking no more chances. Every time they had run down the NeverMan, he either evaded at the last second or pulled Grimm into the melee. It was nothing short of a miracle that no one had been killed yet, especially considering the altercation with Ziz. He'd even menaced several continents. In sequence rather than simultaneously, but he was still to dangerous to leave alone. If they didn't stop him, their luck would run out eventually and then James would have to send the bad news to a soldier's family.
So this time, he pulled out all the stops.
A legion composed of Knight-200s and Paladin-290s, fresh off the line, with Hunter specialists providing support. A wing of bullheads, backed by a smattering of airships and even a modified White Whale model. Every unit or aircraft was fitted with at least one x-ray scope to give them forewarning if the NeverMan tried to bait another legendary Grimm to them. The preparation had been met with accusations of paranoia from the Atlasian government, but they hadn't been there when Ziz awoke. James' men had, and he cared more for their safety than his political standing.
Though, he might even come out ahead in that arena too, seeing as how they had successfully cornered the NeverMan.
In the center of a ring composed of the finest hardware Atlas had ever produced, there stood the NeverMan. No hiding places. No henchmen. No vehicles. A Paladin pilot at the fore of the force read their intentions to the NeverMan, and James wished he could see the bastard's face.
"NeverMan, for a myriad of crimes against the kingdoms of Remnant, and against all of humanity, you are under arrest. Due to the varied locations the crimes were committed in, you will be tried and sentenced in accord with international law. If you attempt to resist, we will shoot to kill. Take off your mask, and put your hands where we can see them!"
The NeverMan just cocked his head to the side, and spoke.
"You are making a terrible mistake."
James Ironwood failed to restrain a disgusted snort. The NeverMan was trying to talk now?
The lead Paladin continued. "I assure you, we are not. You'll make your case in court, or not at all. It's more than an animal like you deserves."
"Perhaps, but mistaken identity or extenuating circumstances were not what I was referring to. You threw this little party to capture the NeverMan. Unfortunately for you..."
The NeverMan slowly raised his hands to shoulder level, palms open upward.
"...this isn't even my final form!"
Then the NeverMan's mask shifted in shape, taking on the likeness of Ziz.
And all hell broke loose.
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I couldn't stop myself.
