Disclaimer: I do not own the blazblue franchise or the RWBY franchise they belong to their respective owners

(A/N)

To address a few things, I've noticed in the reviews.

I want to make it clear that I have no plans or intentions to put character bashing into the story. Though allow me to explain certain scenes.

For Jin's nightmare sequence, this is stuff that Jin himself is noticing with the other characters. Something about Jin is that he is a perceptive individual and this includes certain flaws he's seeing among the characters.

A very large portion of the nightmares is formed from both his guilt and frustration as to how the characters are handling certain situations. Making things harder is that Jin just like his brother Ragna are not the kind of people to talk about how they are feeling and if they do so, it will be with very minimum details. Jin at his core knows Jaune isn't at fault for what happened with Celica and Saya. Though as for who he blames, it should be obvious from their reunion.

For Blake and Cardin, it was unintended for the scene between them to be intense. However, Blake hasn't really dealt with anyone who mistreated the Faunus. Especially since its of someone who she has a bad impression of. On top of seeing someone that she didn't expect, or want to see. She was also frustrated with the events from earlier. So I doubt she was able to handle the additional stress and frustration. As for recycling the speech, it was a very big and unintended oversight on my part. I will be more careful in future chapters.

I understand Ruby was justified in lying, but it could also technically apply to Ozpin for keeping secrets. Make no mistake that I agree Ozpin is completely in the wrong for having no plan to deal with Salem. However, if someone has been betrayed multiple times, then it will be hard for them to trust other people with all the details. Especially since Ozpin has been betrayed several times before.

Not helping matters is that Ruby and Oscar chose a very bad time to tell Ironwood the truth.

I would like to know from all of you what were your problems with Volume 7 canon of RWBY. I have a lot of ideas that are set in stone and want to handle them properly and avoid the mistakes as best as I can and deliver the best quality as I can.

Chapter 90 Arriving at Argus

(The Dust Mines)

It was quick and easy for Adam and Tock to find jobs in the dust mines. This is due to several reasons that made it easy for the two to blend in as regular Faunus Citizens of Mantle. One of the reasons is that the Dust Mines are infamous for being dangerous to work in. Due to how unstable raw dust is and the dangerous conditions the mines tend to be in. Many people find themselves working in the mines due to the need for work and even greater need for finances. What makes the mines common workplaces for the Faunus, is that it is one of the few locations in Remnant that readily employs the Faunus. Whether its due to a sense of pity that many Atlas nobles has. Including but not limited to the SDC. Or that they all see the Faunus as expendable and the labor beneath the nobles. Whatever the reason is, this serves Adam's and Tock's purposes and by extension the remains of the White Fang. All that is required is for all parties to play their roles.

Adam is no stranger to working in a dust mine that is owned by the SDC. This time however, the mines that him and Tock are working in is jointly owned by the SDC and the Baratheon's. Which means that not only do all of the Workers need to be careful when mining the Dust. They also need to mine and sort the various ores that will be found within the mines. Adam knows what to expect when it comes to the SDC supervisors in the Mines. Yet he doesn't know what will happen when it comes to the Baratheon Ore workers. As far Adam is concerned, additional workers will make no difference to his mission.

"Alright you animals, keep up the pace and keep mining the dust and ore. Remember, time is money and I don't want to be down here longer than I need to." One of the guards said while supervising the people mine the ore and Dust

Adam due to his past experience was able to make a great deal of progress with his portion of the work. Since he knows how to handle raw dust, it was easy for him to load and mine the dust. Though he doesn't have much experience mining ore, Adam was able to adapt easily and figure out what to do. As he was working, Adam looked around at his fellow workers in the mines. The majority of the miners are Faunus from the young to the old. While there are a few humans in the mix, it pales in comparison to the number of Faunus workers in the mines. It doesn't help that the supervising guard looks eager to discipline the workers with sadistic glee. A look that made Adam remember the day he got the SDC branding scar on his face.

"What the hell were you thinking!" One of the guards yelled getting everyone's attention. When they saw what was going on. It is clear that the guard is yelling at a young Faunus worker no older than 16.

"I'm sorry, I thought that they were a different colored dust." The young Faunus told the guard

"Do you have any idea how long its going to take to sort through all of this dust. You animals are supposed to be able to see in the dark. Can't you at least tell the difference between dust and coal?" The guard angrily asked the Faunus

"I'm sorry, I was tired and I couldn't tell the difference and . . . ." The young Faunus said before the guard interrupted him.

"No excuses you animal, because of your stupidity I'm going to be in this damn mine longer! Maybe smashing your head should make you think and see straight. It will be the best thing out of dealing with you animals." The guard said before grabbed the young Faunus

Upon seeing this, Adam remembered that an argument with a worker with a SDC supervisor is what led to his scar. When he made a motion to go and help, Tock grabbed his arm and gave a disapproving nod. Figuring out what he intended to do.

"Remember, we still have a job to do." Tock said in a low tone with the both of them understanding the hidden meaning behind the statement

"I can handle this much." Adam said before he approached the guard and the young Faunus

"Hey, its not his fault." Adam said to the guard while getting everyone's attention.

"What was that you animal!?" The guard angrily said to Adam

"Coal and black Dust look very similar to each other. Its very easy for people to get them mixed up with each other." Adam told the guard which angered him

"Are you calling me stupid?!" The guard angrily asked

"No, I'm just saying . . . . ." Adam said before the guard grabbed his arm

"Maybe you should know your place!" The guard said ready to attack Adam

"What is going on here?" A blonde young man said as he came into view accompanied by a Huntsman with a dark beard

"Joffrey Baratheon, what brings you into the mines?" The guard said as he greeted the blonde young man

"Is it unusual for me to look into what will be my inheritance. Even though these specific mines are jointly owned. I still want to see how things are going. To deal with any potential problems that may occur." Joffrey told the guard

"Yes sir, I understand, in fact I was just about to deal with a disruptive worker." The guard told Joffrey before the blonde approached Adam.

"I see, heard the commotion but I want to hear it from your mouth. Now explain to me what happened." Joffrey commanded causing the guard to speak

"One of the workers made a mistake that will take hours to correct and this guy came along trying to tell me how to do my job." The guard told Joffrey

"I was trying to explain how the specific ore and dust can easily be mixed up." Adam said defending his actions

"It sounds like this worker didn't like to see one of his kind being scolded. It's also clear that he's familiar with the work and failed to give proper details to the mix up. So it is clear that all of this could have been avoided if he'd have given proper assistance with the mines." Joffrey said before he started to address everyone

"The purpose of being scolded is to make sure we both understand and learn from our mistakes. So if your trying to stop someone from being scolded, then that means your willing to take their mistakes and the responsibilities that follows." Joffrey said before he continued to speak

"Instead of being grateful for a job, this animal thinks he knows better than us. Which means he needs to be taught a lesson." Joffrey said before he brought out his crossbow and aimed it at Adam causing everyone to have a scared look on their collective faces.

Under most circumstances, Adam could easily survive or better yet avoid the shots. But for the sake of the mission and to maintain cover, Adam has to live up to his role and appease the sadistic noble. Which caused him to reluctantly to kneel to the noble and placate Joffrey.

"Please, I meant no disrespect to you or the guards I only had the best of intentions and I understand that I should have done better in assisting the others but failed to do so. I won't will be more cautious in the future. I just ask that you do not shoot me, it would be very problematic for me." Adam said in a pleading tone while mentally cursing himself for every second he had to do so. Once a few seconds have passed, Joffrey lowered the crossbow

"Hmm, I suppose you do understand your failings. But a lesson still needs to be taught. If I shoot you, it will be hard to say it was a simple accident. Better yet, if one of my arrows hit the dust by accident, we could all be killed in a chain reaction. Fortunately, there is another way to teach you a lesson." Joffrey said before he made a devilish smirk

"Meryn." Joffrey commanded as the large man approached Adam. Once Meryn got close, he grabbed Adam's neck and proceeded to repeatedly punch him in the face on both sides. After a few seconds, Meryn was able to knock Adam down with his immense strength.

Once Adam was down on the ground, Meryn grabbed a club from his belt and positioned himself above Adam. A brief second later, Meryn proceeded to beat Adam with the club to the visible horror of all the workers. With the exception of Meryn, the supervising guard and last but not least Joffrey himself. As Joffrey was watching, he has an expression on his look that is of pure joy as he is enjoying the cruel beating. The young Faunus worker made a motion to stop this. Only for Tock to grab his shoulder and stop him.

"Don't, you'll just make it worse." Tock told the young Faunus in a low tone while the beating continued

Meryn continued to beat Adam for a few more minutes until he stood up and flexed his arms as if it's a job well done. Adam has a lot of visible bruises and injuries on his body and his lips has blood in addition to his bruises. Joffrey stepped forward as if he is ready to address everyone and looked satisfied as if a job has been done well. The sadistic smile on his face gave way to the fact that the blonde noble enjoyed the beating that occurred on the Faunus.

"What we have here is a failure of appreciation. Nobody would give you animals and lower-class peasants a chance. Yet we are doing so out of a sense of altruism. But I also know that many of you think that you're our equal or better because you can see in the dark. Understand this, birds can fly and they are hunted for sport. Fish can swim underwater, yet they end up as food on our plates. Many animals live on the land and they are either our pets, foods, or playthings. The fact that you Faunus have animal traits is proof that you are put on this world to serve your betters. The White Fang's days are numbered and if any of you ever forget that. Then know that you will be reminded of your place." Joffrey said as he finished addressing the workers before facing the supervising guard

"Have them work an additional hour for wasting my time. If any of them have a problem with it. Your free to discipline them as you see fit." Joffrey told the guard

"Hehehehe gladly." The guard said before Joffrey looked at Adam.

"Where is my appreciation?" Joffrey asked which surprised Adam

"Your appreciation?" Adam asked causing Joffrey to speak up

"Yes, you wanted to spare that other Faunus. So I showed mercy and made sure that you took the discipline in his place. That Faunus got the point and you took the discipline. I could have disciplined you both but I decided otherwise due to my kind nature. So don't you think I deserve some appreciation?" Joffrey said causing Adam to angrily grit his teeth and use every strength he has to suppress his rage and urge to kill the blonde noble

"My apologies, I was simply overwhelmed by your generosity and found myself loss for words. Thank you for your kindness and mercy." Adam told Joffrey which satisfied the sadistic blonde.

"Excellent, see to it that after he recovers, he works an additional 2 hours, including his normal shift." Joffrey said before he left the workers alone with the sadistic guard

"Someday." Adam muttered as he maintained his resolve at the fulfillment of the plan. Which required him to endure such mistreatment

(The road)

Maria spent a good portion of the travel telling the large group of how she was once known as the famous Grimm Reaper. Giving the details of the day she lost her eyes to a cruel and sadistic individual. Once Maria was done telling the story, everyone was amazed at what they've learned about their elderly traveler. Though along with the amazement, there was also an intense silence. After a brief second has passed, Qrow started to speak up and ended the silence.

"You're the Grimm Reaper, a legendary Huntress. Then one day you disappeared." Qrow says in a shocked tone

"How does a legend disappear?" Oscar asked

"You don't use your name and don't show your face. Most of us assumed your laying low. But we just came to accept that you just died. The stories we heard about you, I based my weapon on yours. I wanted to be just like you, a living legend." Qrow told Maria

"Well, I'm nothing but a disappointment who fell into despair. So that means your well on your way." Maria said causing Qrow to look away with guilt and shame

"How can you say that, especially after all you've done?" Blake asked before Bang chimed in

"Agreed, it is only natural for you to want to live in peace after spending your life protecting the innocent. I feel like you've earned your retirement despite your unfortunate injury." Bang told Maria

"I know you two mean well, but you simply don't understand. People who choose our career path needs to protect the people until our last breath. When I lost my eyes, I thought to protect only myself. None of you should aspire to be like me, otherwise you'll repeat my mistakes. But I see that some of you have lost so much and still find the strength to keep going forward. Even when the world has turned against you." Maria said as she turned to look at Ragna who has a look of guilt on his face due to what happened at the Farm.

"It's comforting to know that your generation is up to the task of protecting the world. Especially when so many of you have inherited our mistakes." Maria said before Ruby spoke up

"Well, its not too late for you to do something now. You can teach me to use my powers like how you use yours." Ruby suggested to Maria before her scroll started to ring

"It's Jaune!" Ruby excitedly said before she answered

While Ruby was speaking to Jaune on her scroll. Blake found herself thinking about her treatment of Cardin at first sight back on the farm. The more she thought about it, the more she realized that while she has good reason for being mistrustful of Cardin. She never gave him a chance to better or redeem himself. Cardin's words sounded too similar to what Sun told her back on Menagerie. Which made Blake realized that she needs to show growth to both human and Faunus if there is to be a chance for peace. There was a time where Ilia hated the humans and Blake had done everything in her power to help and even protect Ilia. Despite the things Ilia has done, Blake still forgave her friend and the two worked together to save Haven. By comparison, Cardin hasn't done anything nearly as awful and if Ilia can be forgiven. Cardin should at least be given a chance.

"Cardin." Blake called out getting Cardin's attention

"For how I've been treating you back at the farm. I'm sorry, a lot's been happening recently and I realized that I haven't been fair to you. Especially when your changing, and I was too stubborn to see that. Thank you for helping me and I'm sorry for how I've treated you." Blake told Cardin

"Don't worry about it Blake. honestly before coming to Beacon I never really tried to fully understand what it means to be a Huntsman. Then after Jaune saved my life and Amane gave me a lecture. Especially when the Fall of Beacon happened. I had to think about what I truly wanted and what I needed to do. Looking back at it, I should have done so many things differently. But the reality is that I didn't give a good impression of a decent human being. I can't change the past, but I can change myself so I want to do better. I knew it would be a tough road, but I'm prepared for it." Cardin told Blake with the two nodding with a mutual understanding and respect for each other.

"Everyone, we're getting close." Ruby happily said before they all started to go uphill and after a few minutes. They were able to see the large city of Argus.

"Everyone, welcome to the City of Argus." Yang said before she proceeded to drive everyone to the city

(City of Argus)

Once the group made it to the city, everyone felt relieved to be in a stable location. Despite the events that occurred in the previous 24 hours. As everyone was getting settled before taking a tour, Ragna was in deep thought about everything that happened. From the revelation to him being a half human. To having a nightmare of his guilt for his mistakes. The reveal that Hakumen is Jin from the future. Even to the painful uncertainty that despite his wish to save Nu. He doesn't know how to help her. Before everyone walked off, Ragna noticed Ruby and decided to call out to her.

"Ruby!" Ragna called out to her. Everyone proceeded to walk off as she went to Ragna to see what's wrong.

"Are you okay Ragna?" Ruby asked in a concerned tone

"We obviously have to tell the group about what we learned from the lamp sooner or later. But we can't tell Jin or anyone about anything we learned about me and Jin's origins." Ragna told Ruby which slightly surprised her

"I know that me asking the lamp about your origins is intrusive and I am very sorry about that. But now that we know for certain about your family and where you came from. He has a right to know and it might help convince him to help Nu. We all saw what she went through in the labs." Ruby told Ragna

"Ruby, you don't know how it feels to have to question your very identity. I'm not even a human and my mother was created in a lab. You can't possibly imagine how that feels." Ragna told Ruby

"I suppose . . . ." Ruby said before Ragna spoke further

"Not to mention, how are we going to tell Jin that the masked son of a bitch that almost killed me is him from the future. Jin might be able to handle it, but everyone will look at him differently for not being a human. People already see me as a monster, but Jin shouldn't deal with that. I know there is a way to convince Jin to help save Nu. But for now, certain details needs to be kept secret. Once everyone sees that you're keeping it a secret, they will surely get the message." Ragna explained to Ruby

"I see your point, but I need to think about it." Ruby told Ragna before they saw the rest of their friends reunite with the group

"AMANE!" Nora and Tao yelled as they both gave Amane a huge hug before speaking

"I'm happy to see you both. It's been such a long time and we have a lot to catch up on." Amane said before they noticed Jaune approach Cardin

"Jaune, it's been a long time." Cardin told Jaune

"It has, I never really had the chance to thank you for helping me and Noel. Thank you for what you've done, things would have gotten worse." Jaune told Cardin

"Its fine, also I'm sorry for how I treated you back at Beacon. I was wrong for that." Cardin told Jaune in a tone that has hints of guilt

"Its fine, I am happy to see that you're changing. Especially since you helped Ragna's family and helped me and Noel with that masked man." Jaune told Cardin before Makoto approached the two

"When I first met you back in Beacon, needless to say that I didn't have a good impression of you. But I see that you can be a decent human being so your not a lost cause. Whether or not this is genuine, we'll see. But for now, you have my thanks for helping my friends." Makoto told Cardin

"Thank you, and I'm sorry for everything I've done at Beacon." Cardin told Makoto

"Your changing for the better and you helped Noel. That's good enough for me." Makoto said before she left to look for Yang. Once Makoto found her, Makoto grabbed Yang's arm and pulled her to a nearby alley to make sure they are alone. Once they confirmed that nobody is watching. Both Yang and Makoto hugged and kissed each other.

"I missed you Yang, I know that you were safe but I was so worried. I'm glad to see that your okay." Makoto told Yang

"I missed you too Makoto, a lot's happened but I'm glad to see you again." Yang told Makoto as they embraced each other before they went back to the group

"Jaune, do you know where Jin is?" Weiss asked in a concerned tone

"He's staying in a hotel. I've been trying to call Ruby for a few hours and after I spoke to her. I never really told Jin that you guys arrived. I'll call him as soon as I get the chance." Jaune told Weiss before Ruby and Ragna approached him

"So where have you been staying since coming to Argus?" Ruby asked causing Jaune to have an awkward look on his face

"Well . . . . . . ." Jaune said in an awkward tone before a blonde woman holding a young boy approached the group. When Ruby looked at both Jaune and the woman, she put the pieces together. After doing so, Ruby made a happy expression at the fact that she's seeing Jaune's family.

"Ruby, meet my sister Saphron." Jaune said introducing his sister

(Cotta-Arc House)

After taking a brief tour of the city of Argus. The large group settled in Saphron's home which was large enough to accommodate the large group. While the group was interacting with Saphron and her son. Bang spent time with his teammate happy with the fact that the entirety of team BLST has been reunited since Beacon. After Cardin returned to the hotel, Amane spent time catching up with the rest of his team.

"It sounds like all of you had quite an adventure ever since Beacon. From traveling with Ragna and to helping the Faunus in Menagerie." Amane told the group

"Meow, I helped black cat and monkey man beat up all sorts of bad guys. I even saw Tora Kaka after so long. We even helped beat up a bunch of bad guys at Haven." Tao excitedly told Amane

"Well its very heartwarming to see you and the rest of my team doing good and noble work despite our unfortunate separation." Amane happily told Tao

"What were you doing before you found yourself in Argus?" Bullet asked Amane

"I spent a lot of my time doing community work for Vale. Eventually, I came across a mission that required an escort to Argus so supplies could be guarded as they make its way to Vale. As for how it lead to me partnering up with Cardin, that's another long story." Amane answered Bullet

"Well I'm for one am glad to see that my dear team has been reunited. This is proof that no matter how much time has passed between us, the strength of our bond shall never waver." Bang happily told his team before he quickly noticed Jaune being hugged by his sister and realized a very tragic event.

"I mean, I am glad that our team has been reunited. But I also grieve for those who have died." Bang said quickly remembering that the death of Pyrrha still hurts her team.

"Don't worry, I know that Jaune understands your excitement at having your team back. I also believe that he knows we grieve for him and his team's loss." Amane said reassuring Bang. A few seconds later, a woman came in through the door holding several bags of groceries.

"Honey, I'm home." The woman said as she entered the house

"Everyone, this is my wife Terra." Saphron said introducing her wife to everyone

"Wow, you weren't kidding when you said that it's a large crowd. But since all of you risk your lives to protect us. It's fine if we house all of you. Can some of you help me with the bags please." Terra said before Bang approached her

"Ms. Cotta-Arc, I must thank you and your wife for allowing my team to take shelter in your wonderful home. I am also fond of your name Terra, since it means earth. If I am to be blessed with a daughter, I would like to have your blessing and permission if I can let her share in your name." Bang told Terra as he helped her with the bags.

"Um . . . . sure, you don't need my blessing or anything like that. But if you want to your more than welcomed to do so." Terra told Bang as him and the others helped with the bags.

"You have a lovely home and a wonderful family. Its stuff like this that we fight for." Amane said to both Saphron and Terra

"Thank you, I love my family very much and I'm happy to meet her brother and his friends. Especially since there is so many of . . . . ." Terra said before she quickly noticed a hooded Ragna. When she walked a little closer to get a better look. She quickly recognized Ragna from the news.

"Your . . . . . ." Terra said before she noticed Ragna under the hood with a shocked expression.

"Hon, lets go into the kitchen for a bit so I can help you put the food up." Saphron said before she dragged Terra into the kitchen before they started to talk

"Of course." Ragna said in a jaded tone before Jaune gave him a reassuring look

"Give her some time, my sister accepts you. Her wife just doesn't know you. So don't hold it against her." Jaune told Ragna trying to make him feel better

"Well now that most of us are here. We should probably talk about how we're going to get to Atlas. It will be best if we start with the Military Base." Ruby said causing everyone to have a shared worried look

"We actually looked into that and things didn't go as we hoped." Jaune told Ruby

"What do you mean by that?" Blake asked

"Once we get there you will see. You guys might have better luck than we did." Ren answered

"Ragna is going to have to stay away from us though. If he shows up to a Military Base and someone recognizes him. Then it will invite all sorts of trouble." Qrow told the group

"Makes sense, I'll just walk around the city and be alone with my thoughts. If I'm lucky, I might be able to have a quick fighting session with my brother." Ragna said as he proceeded to leave. Before he left the house, he overheard Saphron and Terra talking to each other.

"My brother trusts him, isn't that supposed to mean anything?" Saphron asked

"But he's the beast of Remnant, all those people were killed by him. I know Jaune trusts him, but what if he goes berserk? We could all be in danger because of you brother's trusting nature." Terra explained

"Look, I know that it's a big risk but we're not in any immediate danger and Ragna isn't hurting anyone. Jaune trusts him and I trust my brother." Saphron told Terra in a tone that's a mix of confident and reassuring

"Alright, we promised each other our lives. So I'm trusting your judgement." Terra told Saphron shortly before Ragna left

(Argus Plaza)

After Jaune explained to the group that things didn't go as hoped with the initial trip to the Military Base. It was decided that the group should try again, since this time Qrow and Weiss is with them. As the group was traveling, they were amazed at the sights of the city and how happily the people were living their lives. Ruby meanwhile was thinking about whether or not to follow Ragna's request to not tell Jin and the others about what they learned about Ragna's family and origin. On one hand, she understands why Ragna wouldn't want anyone to know about the fact that they aren't fully human. Though on the other hand, most of the group are coming around to trusting Ragna despite the dangerous power that he has. Though how Ruby learned of these facts regarding Ragna felt intrusive and the least she could do is allow Ragna the chance to tell them on his own terms.

"So how do you think we should approach this? We can't just demand an airship without giving them a good reason to do so." Weiss told the group

"I know the James, so that is something we can use to give us an entry point. Though if all else fails, using your connection to the Shcnee's as the daughter of the head of the SDC will go a long way." Qrow told Weiss

"That might not be as helpful as you think. The Military Specialist at the base saw that we were traveling with Jin and she wasn't exactly willing to let us travel with him." Jaune told Qrow

"Then maybe two nobles will be a good way to convince her to help us." Ruby said in an optimistic tone

"Given her attitude I wouldn't count on it. Maybe if we told her that we're part of the Hunter's initiative. It might up our chances of going to Atlas on our terms." Bullet told Ruby

"I still can't believe that the nobles of Atlas would be so brazen to create a program that would allow them to bypass the Academies and undermine Ironwood. Especially when their using Jin as the poster boy for the program. The Kisaragi's are as bold as the rumors I've heard." Qrow briefly explained to the group

"Hopefully her mood lightened up and she's more accommodating and willing to listen to reason." Ren said trying to be optimistic about the situation

"WHAT PART OF GIVE ME THE DAMN AIRSHIP DON'T YOU UNDERSTAND. AT LEAST YOU CAN TAKE ME TO ATLAS!" A male voice yelled which shocked everyone

"Oh no." The group said in unison before they approach the gates. Once they got a better look, they all saw that it was Sol yelling at the guards and Caroline Cordovin.

"I thought Ragna being away from us would give us a chance. But Sol is Ragna 2.0." Weiss commented before the group approached the gates

"As I keep telling you, the borders are closed and unless its for matters regarding the security of Atlas. We cannot allow others entry to the Kingdoms. Hence the point of the border of Atlas being closed." Caroline told Sol

"Well I'm on an important mission, and if you don't drop that attitude and let me get to Atlas. Then you and me are going to have a very serious problem. That will not end in any way for you." Sol stated to Caroline

"Your welcomed to try thug, I would love to see you sent to prison." Caroline told Sol

"Don't tempt me you old crone. Just because you've lived a long and bitter life. Doesn't mean it can't come to a sudden end." Sol stated to the Specialist

"Are you threatening me thug?" Caroline asked in a demanding tone

"Nope, just giving you a warning in case you or your guards are stupid enough to try anything." Sol confidently responded

"Given her attitude, I wouldn't put it past her." Maria said getting everyone's attention before she faced Caroline Cordovin

"The witch is back." Caroline said to Maria in a stern tone

"The She-Devil still lives." Maria responded in a bitter tone

"I see you've brought larger contraband this time. I hope this thug isn't associated with you in any way. That would be sad even for you." Caroline told Maria

"They say time changes everything, unlike that stick up your . . . ." Maria said before Ruby stopped her

"Maybe we should start over. My name is Ruby Rose and . . . ." Ruby quickly said before Caroline spoke

"Let me guess, you want an airship so you can get into Atlas. I've already heard this absurd request from your friends Ms. Rose." Caroline said before she noticed the others

"WHAT ARE YOU DOING BACK HERE, I KNOW I TOLD YOU ALL TO LEAVE!" Caroline yelled

"WELL I SAID THAT WE WON'T STOP UNTIL YOU LET US THROUGH!" Nora yelled while being held back by Ren and Amane

"It's nice to see you again." Ren quickly said

"It's a pleasure to meet you Miss." Amane quickly said

"Allow me to tell you the significance of our mission here in Argus in small and simple words. Since its clear to me that you are unable to understand why we cannot abide by such requests." Caroline said before she started to explain

"This base and that relay tower, contributes to the safety of Argus and represent the glory of the Kingdom Atlas. Something that cannot be replicated and it is my duty to uphold the values and standards. Since the Atlas border is closed, no requests that involves entry into the Kingdom will be fulfilled unless there is a good reason. Do you all understand that or do I need to simplify the details even further?" Caroline explained to the group

"Oh I understand you perfectly, so allow me to respond in simple words too. As an added bonus, I will say it in rhyme so you can follow and understand easily." Sol said before he spoke further

"You have the size of a runt, I should give you a punt, because the truth is your acting like a real cu . . . ." Sol said before Ruby used her semblance to cover Sol's mouth

"Maybe I should keep explaining." Ruby said before she spoke further

"I know that this is an absurd and a very unreasonable request. But we wouldn't be asking if it wasn't important." Ruby told Caroline in a pleading tone before Weiss spoke up

"We know that nobody is happy with the Dust Embargo or the Border closing. But General Ironwood is doing the best he can. He's just worried about . . . ." Weiss tried to explain before Caroline interrupted

"The General has a right to be worried, but not about Atlas, but about the world itself. The noble Kingdom of Atlas has stood at the forefront of ambition and power for generations. It's position has been challenged many times over the years and continues to survive to this day." Caroline said before receiving praise from her guards. After Caroline spoke, the sound of clapping could be heard by everyone and when they turned to see who was clapping at her, they saw that it was Bang.

"I don't care for her attitude, but I can't deny her patriotic spirit. A feeling I share for my home Ronin-Gai." Bang said defending his clapping

"I assume your friends have told you of the offer made to Jin Kisaragi and I will extend it to you as well. If you wish to return to your family and rightful home in Atlas. Then we shall escort the both of them. Though this applies to only the both of them. We will not put the security of Atlas at risk by escorting people with questionable character." Caroline said as she looked both Makoto, Tao, and Blake

"What do you mean by questionable character?" Makoto said as she balled her fist up while glaring at Caroline

"It means we won't risk undesirables who will threaten the glory of Atlas. We are done here." Caroline said before her and the guards returned to the Military Base and closed the gates. After the gates are closed, Makoto became visibly angry at the older woman

"Questionable character huh, well listen to this you bitter old bat FU . . ." Makoto yelled before Yang covered her mouth

"She's not worth your time or energy Makoto." Yang told her causing Makoto to calm down and the group to walk away.

"Now you see why I'm not fond of a lot of the people of Atlas. I deal with people like that old crone all the time." Makoto told Yang

"I know." Yang responded in a disheartened tone

"Well isn't this a surprise, I never expected to see you guys here in Mantle." Sol said getting everyone's attention.

"Its been a long time, I never expected that we'd see you here of all places." Jaune told the man

"Come to think of it, I saw Ky back in Atlas working under General Ironwood. If you don't mind me asking, why aren't you with him?" Weiss asked Sol in a curious tone

"After Beacon, me and the rest of the team became officially licensed Huntsmen. Ky, his fiancé Dizzy, and Leo went back to Atlas. I decided to travel around Remnant as a Bounty Hunter. I see that you guys held your own after the Fall of Beacon." Sol explained before he took a look at Yang

"Damn, sorry about your arm. Though I'd imagine that the Grimm that took your arm looks worse huh?" Sol said causing Yang to look at her mechanical arm

"It wasn't a Grimm that did this. The full story is hard to explain." Yang briefly explained before Ren spoke up

"So why were you trying to get to Atlas Sol?" Ren asked him

"Well I do have a good reason, if your willing to share." Sol responded

"Excuse me?" Weiss responded

"From what I picked up from earlier. You guys have a big need to get to Atlas. However, your maintaining a strict need to know basis on this. Nothing in this world is free, so if you want my information. Then you have to give me something." Sol told the group

"Come on, what happened to sharing is caring?" Nora asked

"It's still around, but you must have forgotten that nothing is free in this world." Sol responded before Ruby started to angrily approach the group

"Uncle Qrow has gone off for a drink. He's not going to be able to help us for a while." Ruby said in a disappointed tone

"Meow, poor timing don't you think?" Tao asked Ruby

"I know he's frustrated but this is just a minor inconvenience. Especially compared to everything else we need to deal with." Makoto said causing most of the group to have a downtrodden expression on their faces.

"Is everything okay, did something happen?" Nora asked

"To be completely honest, things are a bit complicated." Ruby answered

"What's complicated?" Jin said as he appeared alongside Lambda and got everyone's attention

"How did you know whereto find us?" Blake asked in a curious tone

"I was sent a message earlier and it took a while for us to get here. Given your shared frustration, I assume you've all met the old woman." Jin said in which everyone nodded in agreement

"As I thought, now what happened that made things complicated?" Jin asked causing Ruby to have an awkward look on her face

"It's complicated, but let's go and talk where we can have some privacy." Ruby said causing Sol to walk away

"I'll catch you guys later, I still gotta get to Atlas and I have a feeling we'll see each other again." Sol said before Bang called out to him

"Where will you go Sol?" Bang asked in a concerned tone

"I'll stay in Argus, I have some cash so I can still stay for a few days. The offer to exchange info is still open." Sol told the group before he left

(Moments Later in the House)

The moment everyone made it to Saphron and Terra's house. Ruby spent a good deal of time explaining what they learned from the lamp regarding the shared origins of Ozpin and Salem. Once Ruby was done telling everyone the details. There was a tense silence in the house and everyone didn't know how to handle the details. From how Ozpin and Salem used to be a couple. How Salem's lies and manipulation led to the destruction of all life on the planet. To the significance of the 4 relics and what will happen if they are all reunited with each other. The biggest realization is that Ozpin has no plan in dealing with Salem and kept so many secrets from the world and his inner circle. Another new realization the group learned is that Terumi has found a way to prevent the lamp from learning about him. Which opens up several frightening possibilities.

"YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME!" Jaune yelled as he punched the wall

"Jaune, you need to calm down." Ruby said in a pleading tone

"How can I calm down after learning all of this? Everything we did, everything that happened. HAS BEEN FOR NOTHING!" Jaune angrily yelled

"It couldn't be for nothing, we're just still angry about all of this." Blake said trying to calm Jaune down

"Oh yeah, well how do you explain all of this? We've been putting our lives on the lives helping him in his mission and he doesn't even have a plan. We don't even have a way to kill Salem." Nora said voicing her frustration to the group

"Meow, so does this mean we can still lock up Salem?" Tao asked in a curious tone

"Locking her up won't do us any good Tao. Otherwise she would have been dealt with a long time ago." Bullet angrily told Tao before the tense silence returned

"I know that this is unpleasant, but we can't just . . . . ." Oscar said before everyone started to feel a chill in the air

"Did it just get cold in here?" Oscar asked before Makoto spoke up

"Jin, I know your angry, but you need to calm down. Otherwise we'll all be frozen solid." Makoto said while shivering along with everyone else before Jin calmed down and removed the cold in the house

"All of this started because of you two." Jin angrily said while trying to control his semblance

"Jin?" Weiss said in a worried tone as he angrily approached Oscar

"I know your still in there Ozpin. If you have any kind of decency within you, you will come out and face me." Jin angrily said as he stood in front of the young man

"He isn't . . . . ." Oscar said before Jin spoke up

"Salem's arrogance has allowed her to provoke the brother of darkness into killing everyone, both guilty and innocent. You have waged a war against your former lover with no plan in mind. A war that has claimed the lives of many people. People who have been loyal with a false sense of purpose because of you. People who have been killed for causes that they know nothing about. HOW MANY LIVES HAVE COME TO AN END BECAUSE OF YOUR ARROGANCE!" Jin yelled before his body glowed white and the house was filled with an intense cold

"JIN!" Jaune yelled causing Jin to calm down and stop the use of his semblance. Once Jin thought about what happened, he took a deep breath and realized that in a brief moment, he was becoming like Ragna. Due to the combined feelings of guilt and rage. After recollecting himself, he looked at Ruby

"Is there anything else that you learned?" Jin asked Ruby

"Well I did ask the lamp another question and its about your family. Since the lamp can't tell us anything about Terumi." Ruby told Jin

"What did you learn?" Jin asked causing most of the people to look at Ruby expectantly

"I learned about your family and I can confirm that Nu is your sister. I also know that . . . . . Noel is your twin sister. That's all I learned." Ruby said causing most of the people to have a surprised look but didn't let it show

"Can you repeat that please?" Jin said in a fearful tone

"I learned that Noel is your twin sister." Ruby repeated causing Jin to have the color drained from his face

"Can you give me a moment please." Jin said before he stepped outside the house

"GGGGGGGGGYYYYYYYYYYYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!" Jin yelled before he entered the house

"Overreacting much." Nora commented

"Nora, I know full well that we do not see eye to eye with a lot of things. But remember this, it means having Noel cook for you everyday with a good excuse. Can you look forward to that?" Jin asked causing Nora to have a look of pure fear on her face at the thought of eating Noel's cooking everyday

"Exactly." Jin said before Ren spoke up

"Maybe it'll be best if we all get some fresh air. It will help us process everything we've learned and give us a chance to figure out a plan with a clear head." Ren suggested with everyone agreeing with him and leaving to be left alone to their own thoughts

(The City of Mantle)

After spending several extra hours working in the mines, Adam stayed in the alley so he can not only be left alone. But also give him a chance to recover from his injuries. The ordeal in the mines today, gave him an intense reminder for why he is dedicated to the White Fang and the downfall of Atlas. Adam didn't know how long him, Tock, and his other White Fang brothers and sisters will need to maintain cover. But the fact that the reward will be greater than anything they can imagine. Makes the risk worthwhile, at the very least the chance to bring down Atlas will be well worth it. As Adam was healing and in deep thought, the Faunus boy approached him.

"There you are, I spent a few hours looking for you." The Faunus boy told Adam

"I remember you from the mines, what do you want kid?" Adam asked

"Thank you for helping me back there. There's been a lot of nasty rumors about that noble Joffrey and none of them are good. If it wasn't for you, he would have killed me." The kid Faunus told Adam

"Well I'm glad that I could save you from such a terrible fate. Now if there isn't anything else, I would like to be left alone." Adam told the kid Faunus

"There's another reason I wanted to find you aside from thanking you. You've gotten beaten pretty badly by that guard and I want to help you out." The Kid Faunus told Adam

"I'm a fast healer." Adam bitterly told the kid

"I see, but there's a nice and pretty lady that's here in Mantle everyday to help us recover from the Mines. Aside from that large mechanical doll she has with her, she is easy to approach and is very nice." The Kid Faunus told Adam

"Like I said, I'm a fast healer." Adam said before Tock's hand touched his shoulder

"I suggest you go and check her out. We don't know what other injuries you might have." Tock told Adam while tightening her grip getting the message across.

"Maybe going to this woman won't be the worst idea." Adam said before the Kid Faunus guided him for a few minutes until they reached their destination.

Once they arrived, they saw a large crowd of people has gathered around an individual who is accompanied by a large silver mechanical doll. When Adam got closer, he noticed a good number of the people that gathered are workers from the mines. After a brief moment, there was a green flash of light and a moment after it dissipated. Some of the Mine workers walked away and are in much better condition than before.

"This lady is incredibly nice, she doesn't ask for any money and people feel a lot better once she uses her semblance." The Kid Faunus said as he dragged Adam to the woman. The woman has gentle eyes and radiates an aura that is filled with unconditioned kindness. When the woman saw Adam, she was slightly taken aback but quickly composed herself.

"I see this young man is in need of my help." The woman said

"Yep, he took a beating and even though he said he's a fast healer. He will still need help to fully recover." The Kid Faunus said

"I see, I can't believe those terrible nobles. It makes me glad I chose to come to Mantle to help the people after I recovered. Allow me to heal you as best as I can." The woman said

"What is your name?" Adam asked while

"My name is Celica A. Mercury." Celica said as she started to heal Adam from the beating he endured

(A/N)

If the beginning moments of this chapter was too intense, I apologize. However, it was necessary for the story. It has been established that Atlas is at the forefront of Faunus Mistreatment and I needed to do it to show how terrible things are for the Faunus and the Miners.

To prevent a misunderstanding, I shall explain Terra's caution of Ragna. From what I've seen, Terra is someone who loves and cares about her family. However, she is also someone who will want to protect her family from all kinds of danger. She doesn't mind helping out, however she does draw the line when it comes to immediate danger. The infamy of Ragna is known throughout Remnant. So while Saphron is accepting, Terra is understandably cautious but she will come around.

As things currently stand, Volume 6 of this story will end pretty soon. Unless something else happens, Volume 6 of this story should end in 3 to 5 chapters. I am happy that so many of you have followed and favorited this story. Since it is close to 100 chapters and has gotten over 300 faves and follows. Thank you everyone.

read and review

Thank you