Intermission

World of Remnant

Kingdoms

(The World of Remnant appears on the screen.)

The world of Remnant is a dangerous place, particularly for man. In the countless years that humanity has roamed the planet, civilizations have grown and fallen.

(Next, a map of the current continents of Remnant appears)

But four have withstood the test of time:

Atlas

(A light appears on northern continent)

Mistral

(A second one appears in the east)

Vacuo

(Then the west)

Vale

(And finally, a light appears in the center of the map of Remnant)

These four kingdoms, with the help of natural barriers and human tenacity, have proven that they have the will to survive. Of course, we shouldn't forget about the recent addition even if it is not recognized as an official kingdom: Menagerie

(A fifth light then appears on the southern island)

Each kingdom has a governing council to represent the people and their needs.

(A council is then shown, representing each kingdom)

Of course, though each government is…different.

(A man dressed in royal garments is shown but is then replaced by a woman in a white flowing dress)

For places like Vale and Mistral, they still have a ruler so to speak. Of course, the days of monarchs are over and the new 'kings', 'queens', 'chiefs', 'emperors' and 'empresses' are merely made leaders of the council, elected alongside members of the council to serve the people of the kingdoms they are sworn to protect. They function as Head of State or Government and even Command In-Chief should the need arise.

(Soldiers are shown next marching in single file as air crafts fly overhead)

Next, comes the military. While most kingdoms only call on its citizens to serve when needed, others find it important to be... prepared.

(Groups of nomads are shown next, wandering outside of the kingdoms, building villages of their own)

There are still those who choose to venture outside the walls of the kingdoms. Roaming nomads and small villages are not uncommon. Yet neither is their tendency to... disappear, overnight. Lastly, the Huntsmen academies. These institutions' sole purpose is to train the next generation of Huntsmen.

(Huntsmen are shown next, raising their weapons)

The next generation of defenders that will live and die to protect the lifestyle that they've become so accustomed to.

(The Grimm appear and begin battling the Huntsmen)

Yes, the world of Remnant is indeed a dangerous place. But the four kingdoms stand as beacons of hope. As safe havens from the darkness that surrounds them.

(The map of Remnant is shown again, becoming dark while the beacons representing the kingdoms continue to shine…)

They are the key to mankind's survival, as long as they stand united...

(Until the lights are suddenly extinguished)

Xxx

"You think the kingdoms should still have a ruler?"

Oswald, the King of Vale had not been expecting his old friend and fellow ruler to be against what he had proposed.

Well, she wasn't fully against his vision.

"Sorry, but how you can call a kingdom an actual kingdom with no head of state?" Aqua, the current Empress of Mistral asked.

"If there is one thing I know about monarchy it's too vulnerable to corruption." Oswald stated. "A council will be able to divide the power of the government and a democracy can stabilize it."

"That sounds good on paper, Oswald but I don't think it will work…At least not for Mistral." Aqua sighed as she took a sip of her tea. "Don't get me wrong, I would like nothing better than for my time as Empress to end…Unfortunately I am as deeply committed to ensuring the health and prosperity of Mistral before I disappear again as I am a Keyblade Wielder. Mistral's territory is infinitely large compared to the other kingdoms that a single council wouldn't have the power to keep all the territories in check."

It still surprised both Oswald and Terra how much of a ruler Aqua was acting. Even though she had been forced into the position as a figurehead before assuming full control of Mistral once the war was finally over.

She had fully embraced her role as Empress.

"What do you suggest?" Terra asked.

Aqua sighed as she placed her teacup on the table. "Each kingdom is different. Mantle is strict, placing a heavy focus on discipline, Vacuo respects anyone who can survive living there and dislikes any kind of authority but their own, Vale is meant to be seen as a beacon of hope, welcoming anyone into its cities and villages while Mistral…Mistral is supposedly good in the center but the lower levels are filled with criminals and lawbreakers. A single council wouldn't be enough to manage all that."

"What do you propose?" Oswald asked.

Aqua was silent for a moment, carefully considering what she had to say. "It's not enough to simply change the government and give the people more freedom and it's simply enough for the kingdoms to be beacons of hope. For the kingdoms to prosper, the people need more than just freedom, they need symbols, something that appeals to the best parts of each and every person. I am reminded of how things were run in the City of Light."

Terra perked up at the mention of that…place. "Radiant Garden."

Oswald looked between the pair. "I can't say I have heard of that place."

"Radiant Garden embraced rationalism and nonviolence but they were always researching better ways to protect themselves and improve the health and safety of the people, never resorting to physical aggression unless provoked." Aqua explained. "And I have been to a few places that had a heavy love of art that I think I can apply it to Mistral, using their love of arts to influence them into considering life itself to be an art."

"Life itself an art?" Oswald raised an eyebrow.

Well, that was new one.

Even for him.

"Like I said, I've been to a few places that have a heavy love for art like Mistral. So much so that perhaps I can apply it enough that Mistral can change for the better…Mostly." Aqua admitted, as the wind picked and caused her kimono to flutter. "Like I said, the people need more than just a government where their voice can matter. They need a symbol, something pure and shows them that they can be the best they can be through everyday deeds, simple acts of kindness and love. The kind of things that Salem has disregarded and cast aside."

Xxx

Intermission

World of Remnant

Vale

Well, school's definitely out. Let's see if we can't all learn a little something.

(A map of Remnant is shown)

Welcome to the world of Remnant. Not the best place to live, but depending on where you're staying, it can get a little easier.

(Small towns and villages appear across the map)

You've got towns and villages that pop up as fast as they fall. The Faunus have Menagerie which is kinda a kingdom but not officially recognized for one reason or another. But the sweet spots are Vale, Mistral, Atlas, and Vacuo. The four kingdoms of the modern era, and each one's special in its own little way.

(As the narrators speaks, one by one the kingdoms are lit up with their signature colors)

Let's talk about Vale. In the grand scheme of things, Vale's pretty well guarded.

(Zooms in on the map where the main city of Vale is shown)

Rests on the northeastern end of the world's largest continent, Sanus. Like most successful kingdoms, Vale's survival over the years can mostly be attributed to prime real estate.

(Mountains appear along the city's main boarders and shallow water is shown along the coast)

Its front is protected by steep mountains, and its back is against waters too shallow for any real threat to pop out of. Not to say I haven't heard some crazy fish stories.

(More cities are shown appearing along the coast)

Aside from the main city, which the kingdom's named after and is home to well over a couple million people, the Vale territory also extends to several neighboring cities farther along the northwest coastline, as well as a small island named Patch. Nice place to raise a family, if you're into that sort of thing.

(The island called Patch is lit up when its name is called)

Of course, all attempts to extend the kingdom's reach past the mountains and farther into the mainland have been colossal failures.

(A new city is briefly shown before it is attacked by Grimm and engulfed in a black cloud with red eyes before vanishing)

But, like I said, in the grand scheme of things, Vale ain't half bad. Regular climate, natural barriers, and some serious border defenses means the citizens of Vale can spend less time worrying about survival and more time just living their lives. It supposedly boasts a grand history, especially in the Emerald Forest where the fabled Emerald Kingdom stood in ancient times.

A bit on the nose but who am I to complain?

Since the Great War ended, Vale has been remembered as home of the ruler who single handedly the war.

(A green outline resembling a muscular man with a golden crown and sword appears over the city of Vale)

Aside from ending the Great War, the King of Vale also chose to replace the previous systems were kingdoms relied on their militaries with the Huntsmen system.

(Warriors holding sword, shields and spears were shown standing side by side)

Reducing the risks armies posed but still focused on keeping the people safe. The King of Vale believed warriors, working in teams would be able to protect the people and for the most part it worked. Vale's been more prosperous, despite not being as advanced as…Let's say Atlas. Vale relies more on its natural protection than technology when it comes to defense.

The King's final project though was the foundation of the Huntsmen Academies.

(Beacon appears on the map)

Meant to train the next generation of warriors against the Grimm, the King posted his most trusted warriors, people who fought alongside him in the Great War to be the ones to train future Huntsmen. He also proposed the monarch system be abolished…For the most part.

(A blue outlined woman wearing blue robes appears next to the King)

Approached by the Empress of Mistral, the King was given the idea that the monarchy system shouldn't be completely abolished but changed. Instead of new ruler being picked by line of succession, they would be elected into power.

(A new ruler was shown sitting above three men in chairs, the new Council)

I know, right?

An elected ruler?

Of course, the new rulers would be more of a figurehead and leader of the Council, meant to be representative to the people and to make sure the Council is kept on track of keeping the people safe. Elections are held and the nominees can only hold a maximum of two years with a possible extra term before it ends permanently.

To make sure no new 'rulers' get any ideas.

(Zooms out as the lands where Vale and Mistral are highlighted)

That being said, only Mistral and Vale have these forms of government since both kingdoms have a deep respect for nature and despite being enemies in the Great War, they have since grown close enough to establish in usual trades of resources and Huntsmen.

All in all, Vale has it pretty good.

(The highlights vanish, leaving only the map of Remnant being shown)

Of course, with the fall of Beacon, everyone's a little more worried these days.

And they should be.

Xxx

"An elected ruler?" Oswald questioned.

"That is the idea. A ruler to lead the council but holds the same amount of power as a regular councilor." Aqua nodded.

"So they would be a figurehead." Oswald mused.

"And they would be elected." Aqua continued. "A ruler who would pass the required aptitude tests showing them to be wise enough to rule with their terms only being up to a few years. That way, the ruler does not try to keep themselves in power."

"How are you sure you can convince Mistral to hold on to this tradition?" Oswald asked.

"Because, the people want me to continue being their Empress." Aqua sighed, leaning back in her chair as her hands folded on her lap. "It's not like they know I'm not from Mistral or my real identity. In their eyes, I am Empress Izanami, chosen by former Emperor Alexander since he lost his wife and firstborn daughter and he didn't want any enemies coming after his second and remaining child. To them, I'm a Mistrali both appearance and blood. All I can do now is try and make sure Mistral thrives if and when I disappear and leave behind a vacant throne."

"So, if you can pass these laws of a new ruler being elected, Mistral won't fall into chaos when your time is up." Terra stated.

"That is the plan, but I plan to do as much as I can to make sure Mistral is stable and thrives as a peaceful kingdom. Art is their passion and I hope I can make it so that they come to see life and the beauty in preserving it as the great form of art that they would understand and embrace what I have in mind." Aqua sighed, keeping herself straight to avoid getting wrinkles on her royal robes. "I never wanted this but after being forced into this role, both by Salem and my own people I have to make sure they are well looked after."

Xxx

Intermission:

World of Remnant

Mistral

(Slurping noise)

Ah. Right, where were we?

(The Map of Remnant appears again)

To the east of Sanus is Remnant's second largest landmass, Anima. That's where you'll find the Kingdom of Mistral.

(Anima is lit up as the camera zooms in on Mistral)

Of the four Kingdoms, Mistral has the most controlled territory, meaning you'll find a wider variety of ecosystems and lifestyles. Trust me, this place has something for everyone, for better or worse.

(Villages of Mistral are shown, followed by a woman in green kimono, followed by a man wielding a hammer and a performer wearing a mask)

The high society folks of Mistral are known worldwide for their contributions to fashion, architecture, theater, all the things that make the world pretty and tolerable.

(The camera travels down the lower levels where more dangerous people are shown)

But its lower class has got a fame of its own. Mistral is home to the biggest black market on the planet.

(The camera stops to show a man wearing a demon mask, holding money bills in his hands, followed by a man holding a club and a woman with long hair in a pony tail holding a kunai)

Need something that's hard to find? Got someone that's hard to kill? They can help, provided you've got the Lien to pay for it.

(The cliffs of Mistral with many villages are shown next)

There's one common thread that links all these people together, though, and that's their respect for nature. Particularly the sea and the sky. The natural resources and geography of the area impacted Mistral's culture and technology in a big way.

(Airships are shown colonizing the mountains that make up Mistral)

Its first settlers found shelter high up in the wind-carved cliffs, and as their population grew so did their ability to utilize the land to its fullest potential. A real bunch of forward thinkers.

(A blue woman is shown in a throne room of sorts, wearing royal blue robes and golden headdress)

Then after the Great War, their appreciation of the arts grew thanks to the efforts of Empress Izanami who was intent on creating a pacifist society where their leaders would be elected based on intelligence rather than might. Heck, the right to vote and adulthood is determined by maturity and intelligence rather than simple biological age.

(People of all ages were all shown wearing sophisticated robes, kneeling to the Empress as she made her decreee)

Good thing I didn't go to school there...Heh.

(The mountains of Mistral are shown again as more and more buildings are added, turning the mountains, including the capital city into mountain cities.)

Artistic and intellectual pursuits became the main drive of Mistrali culture with the Empress teaching the ways of nonviolence and rationalism as a way of life.

(Statues are built along with beautiful water fountains and golden gates. Stages are shown as people preform followed by vendor stands to sell books, scrolls and various scientific instruments.)

Under her reign, Mistral entered an era of prosperity, giving them the opportunity to focus on education and all kinds of arts, including architecture. Along with urban planners and artisans, architects came to be highly regarded in Mistral as it was literally rebuilt from the ground up. Everything from music, literature and visual arts came to be of high regard in Mistral as their Empress worked to show the people the finest art of all was living life itself.

(The mountains of Mistral became mountain towns, changing into a blue color with golden outlines and attached to each via cable cars)

Heh, talk about a big dream but at least their drinks are good.

But the people liked that, and soon enough Mistral was thriving in all sorts of ways, becoming the home of the most accomplished artists and philosophers on Remnant.

The main city of Mistral was transformed in the years following the Great War under Empress Izanami's rule and even extended out to places like Wind Path and Kuchinashi through a sophisticated underground train down below and a brand-new invention known as a cable car.

(Cables cars are shown transporting people back and forth along the mountain towns)

As in a car literally suspended in the air by a cable.

One would think you would be crazy to have a transport system like that with a possible attack by Grimm but Mistrali love worshiping the sky so much they loved the cable car and it was heavily monitored and checked constantly with the new mountain towns built in close proximity to each other along the path for the cable car to stop at for routine maintenance or for people to stop off along the way to check in the sights.

(Cable Cars are shown stopping at one mountain town and the people moving off one and onto another while mechanics come and check the previous one)

Good luck getting me onto one of those things.

(The screen them zooms back out, showing the entire map of Remnant again)

There's plenty of places to hide in Mistral.

That's why you gotta know where to look.

Xxx

"So, the Council will be kept small and elected by popular vote but for larger kingdoms like Vale and Mistral, an assembly of sorts can be built to represent the smaller cities representing each kingdom where people can discuss their problems and forward them to the council. The assembly elects the council members so the government refrains from stalling on important issues." Oswald carefully looked over Aqua's proposal. "And the elected 'king' or 'queen' leads the Council since it would be too much power for one person to run an entire kingdom."

"Essentially." Aqua nodded. "This will keep power from being hoarded too much by one person but also keep it from being dispersed too much."

"What about Mantle?" Oswald asked. "I doubt they would be going for the same approach as you."

"Mantle…Mantle's own leadership is focused on its economy, but they seem to be in favor of your ideas." Aqua admitted. "There's not much I can do for them at the moment."

"I already have my own plans made for Mantle." Oswald nodded. "They need a symbol of hope, something to strive for since losing the war has been such a blow to their moral and having suffered so many losses."

Xxx

Intermission

World of Remnant

Atlas

I suppose it's time we talked about the fine people at the top of the world.

(The Map of Remnant with the continent of Solitas being lit before the camera zooms in on Atlas)

Atlas is Remnant's youngest and arguably, most successful kingdom. But it's a bit of a special case.

(The map shows the previous capital of the kingdom: Mantle.)

See, before the Great War, there was no Atlas - there was Mantle.

(People are shown standing atop an icy cliff, watching as the Grimm tried to reach them.)

At some point in time, a group of settlers were crazy enough to venture out into the northernmost continent of Solitas. I guess when you're that desperate, a frozen hunk of rock doesn't seem like such a bad place to call home. As a matter of fact, the harsh weather conditions proved to be just as useful as the mountain ranges when it came to keeping the Creatures of Grimm at bay. It also kept the people of Mantle from flourishing.

(A cold wind blew in and froze the Grimm. People are then shown digging tunnels under the surface of Solitas)

Humanity's got a neat trick up its sleeve, though. Whenever we're faced with a problem, our inclination is to find a solution.

(They eventually find a Dust deposit. There is a flash of light and the Dust used to create heating generators.)

The cold climate of Solitas forced its settlers to adapt. It developed a more advanced technology - and they did it faster than the rest of the world - because they had to to survive. But it was the Great War that really kicked things off.

(Up on the surface, the kingdom of Mantle is slowly being built with a new city shortly being built later)

New forms of Dust application and weaponry allowed Mantle to expand. More and more territory was set aside for Dust mining and research. The territory beside the Kingdom's combat school, Alsius, was the most opportune area to construct a new R&D facility. But by the time things were all said and done, it would be much, much more.

(The city Alsius is shown as it is renamed Atlas as a brand new city is built around it and more Dust crystals are supplied. The image of a man, dressed as a General appeared over Atlas as aircraft are shown flying overhead)

Alsius was reopened as Atlas after the Great War, to house many of the warriors now seeking guidance. In an effort to 'give back' to the citizens, Mantle applied all sorts of new Dust techniques and technologies it had used after the war to beef up the Academy's campus. School grounds expanded faster than they could have imagined and even helped to better secure the surrounding areas. It wasn't long before the Kingdom's military moved in, then the labs, and research facilities. Eventually, even residential areas started popping up.

(The Map of Solitas is shown again)

In time, it became apparent that the city of Mantle was living in Atlas' shadow. And so the decision was made to move the Kingdom's capital. Mantle was old news - and the Kingdom of Atlas was born. 'A golden age of prosperity' they called it - but those left behind in Mantle would probably tell you it was the coldest winter they ever knew.

(A golden man appears in Mantle)

Luckily a man rose up to remind everyone that Mantle was far from gone.

Ansem Schnee, better known as Ansem the Wise.

(Ansem with his wife and children)

Born from Mantle, Ansem was the right guy in the right place at the right time. A boy with bright ideas, meeting the right people Ansem quickly became a champion of Mantle, basing the main headquarters of his company in Mantle and he quickly brought it up to better standards. Can't for sure it's the same standards as Atlas but beggars weren't choosers.

(The City of Mantle is shown again as it is torn down and rebuilt into something more grand)

Eventually the cold winter ended, and a new warmer age was on Mantle but not everyone was happy about it.

(The camera zooms out of Solitas again before fading to black)

Xxx

"And finally, there is Vacuo." Oswald mused.

"I doubt any sort of government outside of the academy you are building there will survive." Terra crossed his arms.

"He's right." Aqua nodded in agreement. "Vacuo only respects strength and survival. At the very best, the only respectable leadership would come from any leaders of the numerous nomad tribes or villages. A sort of alliance, so to speak. Vacuo has lost much of its resources because of years of strip-mining by the other kingdoms and I promised to help return as much as I can what was taken from them."

"Be careful, Aqua. You don't want to overburden yourself." Oswald pointed out.

"I know, believe me I know." Aqua sighed and rubbed her head. "But like I said, Vacuo is more about individuality than unity. Rather than suggest a council, how about the leaders of these come together as an alliance like I said for mutual protection and trade. That way, the Vacuans retain their independence and individuality but still have a form of unity that can be respected."

Xxx

Intermission

World of Remnant

Vacuo

Now if there's one Kingdom that's had it harder than the people of Mantle, it's Vacuo, the last of the four great Kingdoms.

(The Map of Remnant appeared and the western part of Sanus is highlighted)

The western end of Sanus is a barren and desolate wasteland. Long ago, before man went and ruined everything, it was a paradise.

(The screens zooms in on the center of western Sanus, where an oasis appears)

In the center of the vast desert was an oasis unlike anything you've ever seen: A jungle bursting with natural resources, geographical defenses, and the world's largest recorded deposit of Dust.

(People are shown flocking to this oasis)

Nomads that survived the journey across the scorching sands settled down in this little hidden gem, and over time, the Kingdom of Vacuo thrived.

(The people of Vacuo are shown relaxing)

Unfortunately, comfort breeds weakness. While the rest of Remnant had to learn and adapt in order to survive, Vacuo's ancient society kicked back and lived a life of complacency. But when other, more developed Kingdoms set their eyes on everything Vacuo had to offer; its citizens couldn't do anything to stop them from taking it.

(Soldiers from Atlas arrive, followed by Vale and Mistral with weapons)

Years of human conflict, unrestricted mining, and ecological disasters have changed Vacuo.

(The oasis is replaced by industrial factories, with smoke reaching up into the sky. People are now living in tents and others are traveling from one village attacked by Grimm with screams being heard)

The paradise that was once there's now practically indistinguishable from the surrounding deserts. Citizens live in makeshift homes, uprooting and traveling frequently in response to the fleeting resources and occasional attacks from the creatures of Grimm.

(A group of tribes arrive, facing a woman in blue robes with more blue humanoids offering supplies)

After the Great War, rather than install a formal government, it was suggested by the Empress of Mistral herself that the Vacuan people retain their own ideas of law and order and simply have an alliance with people with they like.

(The leaders of the native tribes come forward with weapons…which they then drop and proceed to shake hands)

Needless to say, they took to the idea better since Vacuans don't care much for upholding laws.

(A giant building, Shade Academy is shown looming over Vacuo)

So only Shade Academy became the only real source of order in the kingdom while everyone went about their own ways while having a loose alliance between the various tribes and villages.

(The tribe leaders look to the Empress of Mistral and then to each other, switching over to a bar where they are now partying)

Basically, they said: 'You look tough so if you save us, we'll save you because no one else will even bother.'

Their resentment towards Mistral softened, at least towards their Empress who had became good friends with Vacuo's Queen.

(Mistral's Empress and Vacuo's Queen are shown standing side by side)

And later, Ansem the Wise of Mantle came with an agreement.

(A man with a golden outline was shown meeting the many chiefs, despite the weapons aimed at him)

Even though Vacuo had been mostly stripped clean it still had resources, that Ansem was willing to share.

(Ansem them made gestures as he explained his plan and blocks of ice appeared for each tribe leader)

In exchange for allowing his company to search out for Dust, Ansem promised to supply the tribes of Vacuo with an endless supply of ice and water, taken right from the cold weather of Solitas. And since it was all from an arctic region, the supply of ice and water was practically unlimited.

(The Vacuan Chiefs slowly lower their weapons as more supplies are brought in and trees begin to grow)

In addition to ice and water, Ansem offered soil and plants from the Schnee complexes in Vale and Mistral, allowing the Vacuans to slowly rebuild their land. They were hesitant but Ansem convinced them to give him a chance to prove he was trustworthy.

(Water fountains were shown being built in Vacuo with a few trees growing in and out of the kingdom)

It's slow and will likely take a long time to be restored to its former glory but through the efforts of Mistral's Empress and later Ansem the Wise, Vacuo is in better shape than before.

(Once again Vacuans are shown partying in a bar and then switching to a pair of Vacuan tribes getting ready to fight)

Vacuo may not be as prim and proper as the other three Kingdoms, but it's still standing. And the people there have a mutual respect for one another. See, there's only really one, unspoken rule in Vacuo: If you can survive here, then you're welcome here.

(They suddenly are shown shaking hands and making kind gestures surprisingly)

So, there you have it - Vale, Mistral, Atlas, and Vacuo, the four 'proper' kingdoms. You know, Oz would always say that the four Kingdoms are a representation of what mankind is capable of when working together. Ha-ha, ever the optimist.

(The map of Sanus showing Vacuo appears again, slowly zooming out)

We sure could use him right now.

Xxx

"And thus, we all come to an agreement." King Oswald spoke, looking across the round table and seeing the representatives.

Aqua, better known as Empress Izanami of Mistral.

Prince Larsa Ferrinas Solidor of Mantle.

And the mysterious Chieftess of Vacuo, Crepera.

"With these signatures," Oswald held up the treaty that the signatures of the leaders of all four kingdoms. "I declare us the United Kingdoms of Remnant."

There was applause all around as the leaders and their guards and attendants clapped at the signing of the new world government on Remnant.

Xxx

Intermission

World of Remnant

Menagerie

Betcha thought it was over huh?

Well, there is kind of one kingdom we haven't yet got to, though depending on the person you ask it's either an unofficial kingdom or not a kingdom at all.

(The Map of Remnant appears once again)

If you're familiar with the Faunus, you probably have an idea where this might be going.

(Varuos Faunus, some with cat ears, horns or tails are shown)

The short story is that for a long time the Faunus have gotten the short end of the stick when it comes to living on Remnant. People detest those who are different and that includes people who so different that they are barely considered people.

(Faunus are shown in cages now)

For a long time, people thought of Faunus as less than humans and more like animals. Things were bad, especially before the Great War when slavery was still allowed.

(Faunus were then shown on their knees with a human whipping at them)

Of course, after the Great War ended there was still a bit of that, even after the Faunus were officially given the same rights as humans.

(The map returns with Menagerie having a bright outline surrounding it)

They were given the island Menagerie as their new home in recognition for their services during the Great War.

Heh, some reward.

Menagerie was a desert island with hot burning sun in the center and dangerous creatures roaming about that made it impossible to colonize. Only a small part of the land was habitable, becoming the only village and capital of the whole island: Kuo Kuana.

(The screen zooms in on Menagerie and highlights Kuo Kuana)

Humans saw the reward of Menagerie as fair, giving the Faunus a place to call their own. Many Faunus on the other hand call it in a slap in the face for their hard work, getting a place that was only two-thirds habitable.

Heck in Atlas, they call it the Menagerie Act and pretty much flat out admit that all Faunus were banished to the soil of a desert continent.

And over time, that came to be true.

(In Atlas, men in white armor began marching and pushing Faunus out of the kingdom and soon enough people from Vale and Mistral started doing the same)

A movement to confine all Faunus to Menagerie began making headway in Atlas and it gained influence very fast. Seems a few people were not happy with the Faunus gaining equal rights and wanted to push for them to all be confined to Menagerie where they wouldn't be seen or heard.

Things got nasty, to say the least.

(Faunus began arming themselves and started pushing back against the human armies)

The Faunus had fought long and hard for equal rights and they were not going to give it up. It wasn't as bad as the Great War and only lasted half as long but it was still bloody in its own right.

(Battlefields filled with broken and fallen weapons were shown, covered in blood)

The war drew a lot of people arguing on both sides for the rights of the Faunus. Many were using the Faunus' willingness to shed blood as justification for being confined to Menagerie while those that supported the Faunus called them out for their bigotry.

(A blue woman was shown, standing next to a man in dark armor with a red scarf)

One even went as far as to say: 'Your reasons for saying they are dangerous and should be locked up is not only morally wrong, it is an admittance of fear based on ignorance. The Faunus people live the same as humans, eat the same, breathe the same and even die the same. Baring only one significant difference there is no difference from Human and Faunus.'

She sure had a way with words.

The war lasted five years before the movement to confine all Faunus to Menagerie was ended.

The Faunus had won.

(The Faunus were shown raising their swords in victory)

Of course, Humans continued to discriminate against the Faunus, even as someone suggested that instead of simply giving them Menagerie, they should develop it.

(The Schnee Symbol is shown)

A project put forth by Lady Schnee to her husband in suggesting that Menagerie becomes its own kingdom, complete with its own CCT Tower was proposed. It was met with many oppositions but many of the Faunus in the Schnee Dust company were very supportive. The council in Atlas however, deemed Menagerie was too dangerous and the CCT Vale was more than suitable in covering Menagerie.

Then the damnedest thing happened.

(Menagerie is shown again as a dark cloud appears over and snow and ice start spreading from the center)

A blizzard unlike anything seen before on Remnant appeared in the very center of Menagerie. Winds, snow and ice spread out across the desert landscape for no reason. No one predicted something like this ever happening and curiously Kuo Kuana was spared from the disaster. This blizzard lasted for three whole days before it was over and when it did, nothing was ever the same.

(The cloud vanished, leaving a large lake and several more spread across Menagerie)

A large lake with several more appeared in the Menagerie after the sun melted all the snow and ice, pretty much changing the weather around Menagerie to the point it was unrecognizable.

Suddenly more of Menagerie was habitable as the presence of large amounts of water made it possible to traverse the desert land.

(People were shown exploring Menagerie now, stopping at the lakes and rivers that had been made from the melted snow and ice)

The blizzard had killed the Grimm hiding the in the center of the land, freezing them solid and the water made it possible to travel safely across the land once you knew where to look.

And then the project for developing Menagerie was put through again and this time it met almost no resistance, mostly because with the land freed up, Nicholas Schnee was free to make business there with the locals and he offered forth his wife's idea.

(A CCT Tower is then shown being built in Menagerie)

It's not like the schematics for a CCT Tower are top secret. It's no one outside of the Kingdoms had the resources to build one on their own. But the Schnee Dust Company had the money, people and the support of Faunus in Menagerie to put forth this development project. In exchange for that, the Faunus would lead the SDC to any possible Dust repositories, Faunus would ship the Dust from Menagerie and be paid in money and resources, allowing Kuo Kuana to expand to the point that Menagerie was well set on becoming a fifth Kingdom.

(Villages are shown being built along the coast and close to the many lakes)

With water came the chance for growth, allowing for the Faunus to become self-reliant and their population grew very fast. People would argue that Menagerie was now a kingdom, while many people would refuse to believe that, not happy that the Faunus now had a place where they could grow and likely rival the other kingdoms in power. Arguments were made back and forth but it mattered little in the end.

The Faunus had a place to actually call home and they were able to make trades with places like Vale and they didn't have to care if anyone believed their home was a kingdom or not.

Guess it goes to show what a little luck and one big gift can do.

Xxx

"Hello, Freya."

The elderly woman opened her eyes and smiled when she saw the owner of the voice. "Ah, Winter. So good to see you."

"Likewise." Winter nodded with a smile as she sat down next to the woman's bed. "How are you doing today?"

"Oh, just reminiscing." Freya quietly admitted. "A few good memories come and go but the best ones always come when I am sleeping for some reason."

"And what dreams did you have this time?" Winter asked as she poured a cup of tea for the elderly Winter Maiden.

"That night…In Menagerie…" Freya slowly and quietly spoke. "When she asked me to come with her…I honestly thought she was insane for talking me into that but…In that one moment, I can clearly say I never regretted a single moment of what we did."

Winter placed the teacup down, watching as Freya picked it up. "The mysterious Blizzard of Menagerie…That lasted for three full days…"

"I had never journeyed so far away from Atlas before and I was shaking like a leaf when we landed. Hot scorching sun in my face, an endless desert in all directions…" Freya recalled as she sipped her tea. "I turned to asked, 'Why are we here?' She turned to me and said, 'To perform a miracle.'"

Winter of course knew what Freya was talking about.

The mysterious Blizzard of Menagerie.

The one that lasted for three days and three night.

By the time it was over, the entire desert region of Menagerie had been covered in snow and then the sun peeked through the clouds and caused everything to slowly melt. The amount of ice and snow left in the blizzard's wake had been enough to create one large lake in the center of Menagerie with a dozen smaller lakes and rivers. The ground had become moist and soil that was once infertile because of the hot scorching weather had been allowed to grow healthy plants, creating a new form of paradise that had not been seen since the old days of Vacuo. Curiously Kuo Kuana had stayed perfectly clear of the blizzard and its people had not suffered at all.

Many of them had been led to believe this was an act of compassion from the Brothers themselves or from the shapeshifting God of the Faunus.

But Winter knew otherwise.

The Three-Day Blizzard in Menagerie had not been any sort of divine intervention.

"We danced together that night…" Freya recalled. "Our powers mixing together, and the sun was blocked out by clouds and for the first time ever, it snowed in Menagerie. It was beautiful to watch."

That's right.

The Winter Maiden had brought winter to Menagerie for three days.

The act had completely changed the eco-system of Menagerie, or what little there was to begin with.

Desert land too try for water was now overflowing with it and the development program by the SDC in partnership with the previous Chief of Menagerie had begun expanding Kuo Kuana and laid down the foundation for turning the rest of Menagerie into a Faunus nation, a Kingdom in its own right.

And the one leading it all had been her grandfather: Nicholas Schnee and his wife

"Any hesitation I felt then was literally blown away as we danced." Freya laughed as she put her teacup down. "By the end of it all, I couldn't bring myself to stop dancing. Oh, how they were furious with us when we returned."

Winter could imagine that.

"And she looked so smug as she walked right up to the General…Oh, what was the name of the one before James? I can't remember." Freya muttered but then chuckled. "She looked him right in the eye and told him 'What is your excuse this time?'"

Winter tried to picture someone saying that to General Ironwood.

"She then looked at Nicholas and walked up to him with a smile and said, 'As for you, you might want to keep a closer eye on your little princess.'" Freya laughed again.

Winter's eyes widened. 'Mother was with them?'

Freya looked at her and smiled. "As it turns out, little Willow had snuck aboard the airship we had been on when we flew to Menagerie. The poor dear was rendered speechless as she watched us dancing in the middle of what was the start of a blizzard. I have no idea how the two handled her after that."

"Freya…did she tell you about…" Winter slowly started to ask but trailed off.

"About what, dear?" Freya asked, looking at Winter now.

"…It's nothing." Winter waved it off. "Nothing at all."

Freya stared at her and then smiled. "You look so much like her, you know."

Winter blinked.

"Oh, you perfectly take after young Willow and she had the same look on her face too when she was deep in thought and too worried to speak her mind. I remember that perfectly every time I came to check on her."

"I remember. You were asked to look after my mother when grandmother…passed away." Winter admitted. "You looked after her so well, it was practically being a second mother to her. You would even come and check up on me, Weiss and Whitely when we were little."

"I always had a soft spot for little Willow and later you three." Freya said with a smile. "And I could hardly refuse her final request."

Her final…

"She knew what was going to happen to her and asked you and all her friends to look after my mother and my grandfather." Winter stated knowingly.

Freya nodded. "She did."

Xxx

Once her daily visit with Freya was over, Winter immediately headed towards her office and made sure it was locked with order she was not to be disturbed unless it was absolutely necessary. She walked over to her desk and accessed her computer.

Accessing Schnee Dust Company Database

SEARCH: Menagerie Development Project

Password: White Castle

Accepted

Winter looked over the details concerning the development project in Menagerie, including the plans to have a fifth CCT tower built in the center of the newly expanded Kuo Kuana. She was more interested in learning about the blizzard that had covered the uninhabitable parts of Menagerie for three days.

Files Restricted

Override Restriction

Authorization: Winter Schnee

Accepted

A recording file was shown of two young women in the cockpit of an airship. Winter's eyes widened as she recognized one of them as a young Freya and the other…

The wife of Nicholas Schnee: Aqua.