The Eternal Commander
Chapter 13
The Meeting of Minds
"Does this one look nice?"
"Yeah, let's try that one!"
Gabriel and Yuri were in civilian clothes, as they entered the chosen establishment in the Residential District, as the Sun slowly approached the horizon. They have been walking for a while now, looking for the perfect one to spend the night in. While the rifleman would have been fine with anything, his friend preferred a location with a wall. From the outside, it looked decent enough. It even had a bright green neon sign reading "THE THIRSTY HUNTRESS", alongside with another pink sign looking like a nude, curvy woman.
The Inside of the bar was slightly dimly lit, but it was still bright enough with all the lights turned on, since the sun already started to set. It looked organised and clean, for a bar at least.
At the moment, it only had a couple of visitors, other than the female staff, who wore clothes similar to those in Hooters, but the uniforms showed more midriff. Some of them were acted as waitresses, while other danced on various polls that were set in the middle of the room. Most of light were neon pink, giving a certain vibe to the place, with rhythmical music playing in the background, and some people were using the dedicated dance floor. Some of the patrons looked like they recognised the commando, but they either didn't care, or they were already too drunk.
"Well, I guess this look like a fun place." Said Yuri, as he looked around for a suitable table. He found one, that was farther away, in a relatively quiet corner of the establishment.
"Well, at least it is quiet, for now. At the staff just looks lovely! I knew that you will be able to find one place that both of us will like." Said Gabriel, as he followed his friend to the table he chose.
As they sat down, a waitress immediately approached them with a smile on her face.
"What can I get for you guys?"
"I would like a beer for me and my friend" Answered Yuri.
Gabriel raised his eyebrows.
"Aren't Russians like you drink vodka?"
"Well, back in the old country, vodka was a precious commodity. With most of the country being designated as a Yellow Zone, getting the needed materials was not an easy task. So, we only drank it for special occasions."
"Ah, I see. But isn't hanging around with your best friend a special occasion?"
After thinking about this for a second, Yuri turned around towards the waitress.
"I have changed my mind. Instead of beer, bring me the strongest vodka you have."
"Will there be anything else?" Asked the lovely young woman.
Gabriel handed her a bunch of Lien, while making a handsome, smiling face that would make Johnny Bravo proud.
"Hey baby, will you be so kind and let us use that jukebox over there? I promise you won't regret this."
"But that is strictly for…" Before she could finish that sentence, Gabriel gave her a large stack of cash, which made stop, and hesitate a bit.
"I'll see what I can do." She said hesitantly, then left the table in a hurry.
The two friends' mood couldn't have been better. After working for so long and dealing with the aftermath of the latest operation, a day off was something they really needed. Instead of armour, they wore standard-issue khaki GDI T-shirts with the organisation's logo alongside with regular blue jeans, as they tried to find the most comfortable position. Without any amour, the differences between their bodies became much more noticeable. Besides being noticeably bigger, Gabriel's skin was noticeably tanned, while Yuri's was almost as white as snow. He also had a five-o-clock shadow, while the rifleman's face was as smooth as a baby's bottom.
"So, what do you want to talk about, Gabriel?" Asked the Russian rifleman.
"You know, I have just realised something" started the commando," we have known each other for months now. You don't have to call me by my full name, it just feels too formal to me. Just call me Gabe, okay?"
"Well, in that case, call me Yura. That's how my friends back on Earth used to call me."
Gabriel nodded, then leaned in closer towards his friend.
"Now that we are out here, far from any other GDI personnel, there is a question I wanted to ask you for a while: Why do we obey the Commander?"
Yuri was looking confused, upon hearing this question. He scratched his head profusely while thinking about any worthwhile answer.
"…Because he is the Commander? I don't understand this question." He answered reluctantly.
"Honestly, your answer is as good as it can get, buddy. He is the boss; we are his underlings, and we obey. Simple as that. There is, however, a big difference between us and those Meatpuppets: we have the option to disobey."
"Meatpuppets?"
"You know what I'm talking about. 99 percent of our comrades. Those who are not reincarnated from Earth, but just soulless bodies trying to act like real people. Those Meatpuppets."
"Oh," the rifleman's eyes became much wider," I know what you are talking about. But I have never heard anyone calling them like that. But how do you know who is a "Meatpuppet", and who is someone like us?" He asked.
"Most of the time, it's gut feeling, which you pick up after spending time with them. Also, the Reincarnated, like us, tends to be more…bombastic, hammy, or larger than life. They are livelier, basically, or at a very least, you have a good feeling about them. This is how I found that Walker guy, for example. Why or how did we ended up here, I have no idea, but at least we kept our free will." The music was changed, this time one with a faster tone.
"I see. So why do you bring this up the fact that we have the option to disobey the Commander's orders? Do you plan on causing a mutiny or something?" Asked Yuri in a concerned voice.
Gaberiel couldn't help but to chuckle.
"Mutiny? No, of course not! Why would I rebel against the boss? He has treated us fair for most part, and he never asked us to things like shoot babies or something. Besides, we have already been trained to obey in bootcamp back on Earth. What I am saying that people like us should stick together. And I will remain loyal to the Commander, even if I have to fight alongside with the noddies, the squids, and all of the other factions he has under his control. I trust him completely. So don't worry, there won't be any mutiny in the near future."
"If you say so my friend."
Just as they finished their conversation from earlier, the waitress from earlier has returned, alongside with a plate full of drinks.
"Here is your drink. I have asked the boss about using the jukebox, and they have said that after the next song, you have the permission to use it for the next couple of songs. Just notify me when you are ready." She explained while smiling politely.
"Cool, just let us finish the drink, and then we can be the kings of the dance floor!" After pouring out their drinks, the waitress left them to their own devices.
"Well, then let us drink. Cheeirs"
"Поехали! (Cheers!)" Added Yuri, then both drank their first cup.
For the next twenty minutes, the duo drank their drinks, and they became noticeably more lightweight. Not drunk, or anything close to that, but it slowly made them more openminded and honest.
Finally, Yuri finally spoke what he had in his mind.
"Hey big guy, do you know how lucky you are?" He asked, slurping his words.
"Oh, why do you think that, my favourite Russian?"
"Just look at yourself: You are a commando. No, scratch that! You are THE Commando of the GDI. You are a fucking one-man army, who can not only kill an entire brigade on the spot, but can take on huntsmen, without a scratch! Not only you are overwhelmingly strong, but you are agile and have almost superhuman reflex, yet you can fight in the most protective armour we have without slowing down, not to mention you are an expert in hand-to-hand, knife, and all matter of CQC forms. Your weapons can melt infantry like butter, and you can destroy vehicles and buildings with just a single bomb. And do I have?! An assault rifle with an underslug grenade launcher, a pistol, a knife and a couple of frag grenades. And not even those fancy ai-assisted rocket-propelled grenades that our grenadiers have. Nope, just standard, regular ass frag grenades. I can barely even use a bayonet. So yeah, I feel out of my depth beside you sometimes." The rifleman looked exhausted after the rant, and after that, he just sighed, and stared at the empty bottle.
The commando just smiled, and placed his hand on his friend shoulder, trying to console him.
"I am… sorry to hear that. Look, if you feel like I am making you uncomfortable, I can-"
"Nothing like that!" He quickly interrupted. "If I can be honest, I am a bit jealous of you. You get to do all the cool shit, while I am stuck being a regular rifleman. But I want to assure you however, that our friendship is not in jeopardy because of this, and I promise this won't cause any problem in the future. This is just something I wanted to get off my chest. I am sorry if I have upset you."
Gabriel just smiled. "Don't worry Yura. I am not mad at all. In fact, I am grateful that you have told me that. And you what? I think there are some skills I can teach you, so you can be a more effective warrior. Are you interested in that?"
Yuri scratched his head. "Well, I guess I can give it try. And when should start?"
"How about now? First question: do you know how to sing?"
"I wouldn't really say I can. However, I can dance."
"Good. Because it is time to face the music. Literally." Both of them chuckled, then they stood up, and walked towards the jukebox, which looked more like a modernised replica, than a real one.
The guest in the establishment were watching them with a mix of curiosity and worry. The latter mostly because they were familiar with the music selection of the place, giving it a very special vibe. And they didn't want any new song to destroy it.
The two soldiers ignored these looks. Gabriel reached for his fanny pack, and picked up a DVD, then he placed it on the player.
Hall & Oates – Out of touch
The new, unfamiliar rhythm slowly filled the room, and everyone looked at the pair, as the taller one started to sing alongside the song after a while, while the other started to dance in way, that only a professional could hope to replicate.
Shake it up is all that we know
Using the bodies up as we go
I'm waking up to fantasy
The shades all around aren't the colors we used to see
Broken ice still melts in the sun
And times that are broken can often be one again
We're soul alone
And soul really matters to me
Take a look around
You're out of touch
I'm out of time
But I'm out of my head when you're not around
You're out of touch
I'm out of time (time)
But I'm out of my head when you're not around
Oh oh oh oh oh oh
Reaching out for something to hold
Looking for a love where the climate is cold
Manic moves and drowsy dreams
Or living in the middle between the two extremes
Smoking guns hot to the touch
Would cool down if we didn't use them so much, yeah
We're soul alone
And soul really matters to me
Too much
The crowd was unsure what to make of the new song first, but after a while, they started to dance alongside the side rhythm, feeling the vibe, and living in a decade, which have never existed in Remnant.
You're out of touch
I'm out of time
But I'm out of my head when you're not around
You're out of touch
I'm out of time
But I'm out of my head when you're not around
Oh oh oh oh oh oh
Oh oh oh oh oh oh
You're out of touch
I'm out of time
But I'm out of my head when you're not around
You're out of touch
I'm out of time
But I'm out of my head when you're not around
You're out of touch
Time
But I'm out of my head when you're not around
You're out of touch
I'm out of time
Not around
You're out of touch
I'm out of time
When the song has finally ended, the crowd have erupted in cheer. The pair couldn't have but smile upon seeing the positive reaction. Without waiting, Gaberiel pressed a button on the jukebox to play the next song.
In the next 30 minutes or so, they played various, mostly retro themed songs; including Billie Jean by Michael Jackson, Always On My Mind by the Pet Shop Boys, Daddy Cool by Boonie M and so on.
When the final song has finally finished playing, the crowd couldn't have been any more excited. It has also grown much larger is size, since upon hearing the unfamiliar songs, many people in the streets came in to hear the songs and even dance to them.
Ignoring the barrage of questions thrown at them, the commando firmly spoke up.
"And this, ladies and gentlemen, this was an exclusive preview from "Party Time", an upcoming music compilation by GDI Inhouse ProductionsTM, and it will be available for purchase on next Friday. I am glad we could make your night a much more enjoyable one. Now if you excuse me." Grabbing Yuri's hand, the commando dragged him through the crowd, ignoring the bombardment of questions, and entered the street.
"Not going to lie, this went better than expected. And you have never said you could dance this well."
"Well, I never had any reason to say it before. And you sing wonderfully." He said blushingly, as they slowly walked away from the club.
"Thanks! We make a good team, I tell you."
The sun was already setting when they entered the establishment, but by now, it was almost completely dark, and the streetlights and neon signs brightened the district.
"You know, I was just wondering: Why these songs in particular?" Asked Yuri.
"Well, it was the boss' idea. I have no idea why these in particular, but he did mention that it is "Out Of Touch Thursday", whatever that means." He just shrugged his shoulder, as they slowly reached the Commercial District
"So, did you enjoy this little trip?" Asked Gaberiel.
"Of course, Gabe. It's been a while since I got a chance to dance. And I even got the chance to open up to you."
"I am glad that's the case. And since you are in a good mood, I want to tell you something: There is an upcoming operation involving the protection and if needed, the retrieval of Amber Autum, a high value VIP. She apparently has supernatural powers. And I really want you alongside this operation."
"Really?" Asked the surprised rifleman. "Well, I guess I can join you, although I don't know how helpful will I be. We always fight side by side, so ultimately anyway, so there is no question about it." He nodded.
"Thank you."
"You're welcome. Anything for a friend." They smiled each other once again.
Despite the light pollution, the night sky looked beautiful.
I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-
Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord
He is trampling out the vintage where the grapes of wrath are stored
He hath loosed the fateful lightning of His terrible swift sword
His truth is marching on
Glory, Glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
His truth is marching on
I have seen Him in the watch-fires of a hundred circling camps
They have builded Him an altar in the evening dews and damps
I can read His righteous sentence by the dim and flaring lamps
His day is marching on.
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
His day is marching on
As Chris walked through the halls of Beacon Academy, he couldn't help but sing to himself.
After all, he was in high spirits since the last operation from three days ago. Its success was the main focus of the news. Everyone was talking about this, from the main channels to the message boards on Scrollnet. Expert -both the real ones and the armchair kind- analysed every bit of available footage and information about the operation. They showered the GDI in praise without limits. He felt so proud that he had to express it somehow.
And why The Battle Hymn of the Republic? Well, it was just the first one that came to his mind, really. Or maybe he just liked the rhythm.
Of course, the main focus of thoughts was something else. A day after the rescue, a letter came through his mailbox. It was from Professor Ozpin, the Headmaster of Beacon Academy. It was rather short, consisting of a congratulation for his latest success, and an invitation for a "discussion about the future or Remnant".
Chris was not sure what to make of the message. Not just the fact that this was the first official letter that he got in this world (since so far, he only had to use his Scroll and his laptop for official business), but also the fact that the letter itself was not only short, but it lacked any real detail when it came what this "discussion" is supposed to be. There was only a location, a time, and a dress code, so it seemed fishy. His common sense told him that going to the meeting was a bad idea, and it could very well be a trap. In the end, however, his curiosity got him. Besides, thanks to all the information he had gathered from Raven, he had a few ideas as to the possible topics they might have to discuss. He hoped that the information was correct, and he would come out on top.
Since it was early Summer, the halls were empty. There were no footsteps, whispers, talking or any other man-made noise. It was a bit creepy, he thought, as he entered the elevator, and pressed the bottom for the top floor. As the doors closed, he adjusted his tie. He was wearing a nice tuxedo, which he used for formal occasions.
After a short ride, the door opened, and he looked around the office. Besides a fancy looking desk and chair, it lacked any other furniture. Behind said desk was a giant glass clock. Alongside with the other giant windows, it gave a great panorama of Vale. But he wasn't there for the view.
The first person he saw was an older looking male wearing a dark green coat. He looked around the room, then he focused his attention on the table in the back, and the four people surrounding it.
The first one he immediately recognised was Professor Ozpin himself. He had a slightly scruffy, silver hair, and a pair of shining brown eyes behind his glass. He wore a dark-green suit and had a walking cane next to the chair he was sitting on. His inquisitive eyes surveyed the Commander with great interest.
Next to him was the other familiar face he heard about: General James Ironwood, Commander-in-Chief of the Atlesian Armed Forces. He wore striking white coat and trousers, with the occasional black thrown in there. His black hair was short, and he looked rather cautious about their guest.
The third one was a slender, blonde woman with glasses. Chris had hold himself back a bit, when he saw her. She was like the perfect incarnation of the "hot teacher" trope. When she saw him, she just adjusted her glasses.
The last one was a scruffy, thin looking dude with messy, dark hair. His mannerism indicated that he was slightly drunk. This was confirmed, when Chris observed him closer, and saw a flask in his right hand.
"Welcome, Mr. Turner. We've been expected you." Said Ozpin diplomatically, then he pointed towards them. "Allow me to introduce my associates and myself. This is General James Ironwood, commander of the Altesian Armed Forces. This is Glyda Goodwitch, a teacher here in Beacon Academy. This is Qrow Branwen, a trusty ally of mine. And I am Professor Ozpin, the Headmaster of this fine Institution. Pleasure to make your acquaintance."
Chris went to every one of them, greeted them, and gave them a firm handshake (although the General's handshake was firmer than he expected to be.)
After the introductions, Chris was thinking about a great icebreaker to start this conversation, but the Professor was faster than him.
"Now that we are all here, I want to ask you a question, Mr. Turner: What do you think the purpose of life is?"
'Interesting way to start a meeting, that's for sure' The Commander thought, as he scratched his chin while thinking about this a bit. It was certainly an unusual ice-breaker.
"Achieving Happiness." He finally answered. "Every sentient being that have ever existed, currently existing and will exist in the future only want one thing: Happiness. This desire universal. It crosses borders, nationalities, creeds, beliefs, cultures, and any sort of barriers."
"I agree." Said the Professor. "But despite being a universal desire, how come no one ever created a perfect Utopia, where everyone can be happy? What do think the reason behind that is?"
"Because people are inherently selfish, and some are willing to go too far when to comes to achieving their happiness, often at the expense of others."
The Professor sighed, then he adjusted his glasses, while looking at his guest even more closely.
"Sadly, that is certainly something that I can also agree with."
The group remained silent for a few seconds, before continuing their conversation.
"Mr. Turner, we can both agree that despite this sad truth, I believe there are always people who are willing to help others in their time of need. And since you have expressed similar sentiment publicly, I am curious as to what are your next big project that you are working. I imagine someone of your calibre always have something on their mind."
Chris adjusted his tie and leaned at the professor more closely. He decided that, in order to earn the trust of this "group", he needs to be open with them. Give them a treat, something that will make him look like a potential candidate for an alliance.
"The one good thing about an imperfect world is that there is always something to improve upon. Take for example the Cross Continental Transmit System. It's a marvel of technological progress. A shining example of what mankind can achieve. However, there is one big problem with it. I think you know which one I am talking about."
The Professor just smiled. "While it is understandable to say that the fact that the network requires all four towers to function, other that the occasional maintenance, this has never been an issue. Every faction in Remnant relies on the CCTS, so sabotaging it would prove to be counterproductive to them. For this reason, I don't fear anything like that in the future.
The Commander raised his eyebrows upon hearing this statement, finding it a bit dismissive and naïve, but he continued on.
"Even in that case, I believe it is paramount to fix this, because the future is not yet set, and it would be unwise to try to fix too late. And I know the perfect solution for this." He straightened up and did the Mr. Beast pose. "Satellites!" He exclaimed.
The group went quiet for a few seconds.
"…the fuck's a satellite?!" Asked Qrow in a slightly drunken and confused voice. Glynda looked at disapprovingly, probably scolding him to failing to remember something this trivial.
"The idea itself is simple: They will act as a series of relay stations in the upper atmosphere, ensuring the uninterrupted flow of information. And since as far as I am aware, no nation in Remnant currently in possession of anti-satellite weaponry, the system can remain active without the fear of a permanent shutdown."
"And how will you plan on accomplishing this? The ideas of satellites have been known for a while know, but there was one thing which made the idea impossible to accomplish: Dust becomes inert upon reaching the atmosphere, and so far, we have been unable to overcome this obstacle." Asked Ironwood, finally becoming active in the conversation.
"There are many options, but I think liquid hydrogen is the way to go, with liquid oxygen acting as an oxidizer. Technology not relying on Dust is severely lacking on Remnant. Thankfully, my scientists are already working on such technologies, so expect more news about that in the future."
"That is certainly sounds like an interesting solution. I am looking forward to seeing it in practise, alongside whatever your scientists have come up with." Said the Professor looking very interested in the prospect.
Now that he gave them the treat, he decided to take control of the flow of the conversation.
"Now that we are here, I have a question of my own: I want to know about this group in particular and what exactly is the purpose of this meeting. I have not known about the existence of this group until two days ago, and the invitation itself was lacking in clear detail. So, professor, if you wish to create the desired conversation about the future of this planet, please, enlighten me, so we are on the same page."
The professor just kept smiling,
"As long as history existed, there has been always an idea: to have a group of individuals, who protect Remnant from the most dangerous levels of evil, while ensuring that history can march onward uninterrupted."
"And I am guessing that means the suppression of certain information, that would compromise the "march of progress." Remarked Chris.
"That is correct. In order to ensure that people with malevolent intentions will not take advantage of it, certain information needs to be…hidden." Explained the Professor.
'Now it was time to drop the hammer.' He thought to himself.
"I can certainly imagine that. Although if I can be honest, this world certainly has a lot of interesting secrets. Like how the Grimm is actually controlled by an individual named Salem. Or that there are powerful magical artifacts called Relics in each kingdom, and a group of women named the Maidens can control magic. And you, Professor, are much older than meets the eye." He said smiling confidently.
The mood of the room changed in an instant. From a warm curiosity to a mix of shock and disbelief with a hint of wariness. The four others looked at each other, hoping that one of them will give them a much-needed answer. Even Ozpin, despite trying to maintain his composure, was unsure as to what to make of this.
Chris just smiled without any interruption, savouring the outcome. While this was certainly the "nuclear option" so-to-speak, he knew he couldn't dance around it too much. He had to act while he still had the upper hand.
The silence lasted at least six seconds before Glynda finally broke it.
"…Aaaaand how did you came across this information?" She asked worried.
"Raven was surprisingly forthcoming with information. Turns out that even a Social Darwinist like her had weak points in the forms of loved ones. And apparently, she was a member of your little Illuminati at one point. Funny how that works."
Qrow looked…frightened, in a sense. Or least there was a hint of worry behind his drunken face.
"Well, I knew that she will be in trouble one day, but I never thought that that day will come this soon." He said it to himself at first, then he became audible. "So, what are you planning to do with her?"
"For now, she is kept under high security, while Mistral Police Department compiles a case against her. If you interested, I could arrange a visit for you."
"I appreciate that. I understand how you feel about her. But she is still my little sister, and it's been a while since we have met."
"That is understandable. I will let you know later." 'I guess blood is truly thicker than water, after all' While this was not really a problem in his family, he heard stories about how hard it was to be a relative to criminals. People tend to be mistrustful of you and can even affect your job opportunities. Despite all of that, love between family members was not something that can be easily extinguished, no matter the circumstances.
This train of thoughts was interrupted by the Professor's impatient coughs.
"Anyway, now that you are aware all of this…information, how will you plan to act on it?"
"Honestly, it doesn't change that much. However, I have a final goal in mind for the future: Destroy Salem ad eradicate the Grimm, no matter what. The Relics and the Maidens are also in my sight, but currently, I just want to make sure that they don't fall into enemy hands. My main interest at this point is to improve the quality of life on this planet and help protect the people from any and all enemies."
"And I am guessing that this will involve you having a large armed force, in order to "protect the people", isn't it?" Asked the Professor.
"Naturally. In my opinion, a worthwhile kingdom should have a permanent military ready to be deployed at a moment's notice. Don't you agree, General?" Asked the Commander, as he turned towards Ironwood and nodded.
"I have to agree on that front. Atlas has always been a firm believer in the idea of "armed peace". Even after the Great War, as the other Kingdoms decided to disarm themselves, we have decided that there is no reason to think that the armed forces and the Huntsman cannot serve under the same banner."
"Precisely. While I find Huntsmen to be capable fighters, they lack something that armies can provide: Permanency. A Huntsman can clear an area from the Grimm, but only army can occupy an area to avoid them from returning. A Huntsman can save the village, but only an army can protect it in the long term. A Huntsman can catch a dangerous criminal, but only a well-equipped police force can prosecute them and actually enforce the law in a truly meaningful sense. Without army and police, a nation cannot truly exist, and I am shocked that the majority of the Kingdoms, despite surrounded by hostile critters from all sides, chose to disband their armies, and instead rely on glorified freelance mercenaries. As a military man yourself, I think you understand my line of reasoning, General."
Technically speaking, he wasn't entirely correct. Even back on Earth, there were a surprisingly large number of countries without a standing army. Like the Marshall Islands or Micronesia, for example. In many cases, they can afford it since they are protected by a larger nation. There are also cases like Panama, where there are no official standing army, only a police force with limited military capabilities. While it has a strategically important Panama Canal, the envy of many nations, it doesn't have to fear them. Only one of its neighbours has an army (Columbia), the other is in a similar state when it comes to having one (Costa Rica). And Chris was sure any attempt to capture the Canal would be result in not only international condemnation, but a military intervention would surely follow, and the US would just bomb the attackers back to the stone age.
The other reason why they can afford it is that in these days, wars between nations is rare, and it is always something that the International Community would do their best to end it quickly, even if there is no Military Intervention. They are also expensive, so often they are not worth it.
Still, when he discovered this fact about Remnant, he was confused by it. While the official reason was that the creation of the Huntsmen, who were tasked to "uphold the peace", and therefore regular armed forces were unneeded, this sounded like a stupid excuse. Also officially, the Huntsmen were not under the allegiance of any of the kingdoms, but Atlas was known to pressure freshly graduated Huntsmen into their army, so even their "neutrality" was a mood point, no to mention certain Huntsmen were known for openly working criminal organisations, requiring other Huntsmen to deal with them, since regular police were unable to.
All in all, this system was not functioning, requiring drastic reforms.
"I have to with you on that front, Mr. Turner. I have always advocated for the Kingdoms to arm themselves properly. You have called the Huntsmen mercenaries. But your own armed forces are part of a "Private Military Company", as you have described it, fitting the definition for mercenaries. So, what are trying to say here?" The General's tone was rather inquisitive.
"My army, for all intended purposes, is just a temporary solution in this regard. Like I said, mercenaries are just that, and this is also to the GDI. As soon as Vale and the other kingdoms successfully built an army of their own, then I will leave protecting the villages and fighting the Grimm to them, and I will focus on more specialized matters."
"I think I understand what you are trying to say here, Mr. Turner" Chimed in Glynda again. "And more thing: How do you imagine the future of our partnership, if you are willing to go down on that route?"
'This was easier than I thought', thought Chris. While a partnership was something he was hoping for, he thought that they would be a bit more hesitant about that. Still, at least he didn't need to ask them himself.
"In my opinion, a partnership is something that would benefit the both of us. While me becoming a full-time member is a bit too early, in my opinion, an alliance would be the best option. I am a rather individualistic person, mostly preferring doing things on my own, so I don't want to cause too much friction within this group. Still, with my help, I can help you guys to extend your influence. The Atlesian Armed Forces can only have so much outpost in the world, but for my company, I only need a contract to act. There are also some… unsavoury activities, that you might you need to do. Like assassination, kidnapping, inciting rebellions, espionage, interrogations or so on. I imagine someone like you would want to avoid getting their hands directly dirty. I can handle all of this unpleasant stuff, and you can focus on her specifically. So, what do you say, do you like my offer?"
The four other people in the room quickly looked at each other. Judging by their facial expressions, it almost looked like a silent conversation went on, and after a few seconds on indecisiveness, they finally nod in agreement.
"We find your offer to be…acceptable. However, the way you have said it, it sounds like you expect something in return. What would that be?" Asked the Professor.
"I won't ask much on my part. I just want to ask you to not interfere with my operations. I have multiple big projects planned, which I plan to reveal in due time. And I will give you guys and exclusive preview, when the time is right. Although now that I think about it, I have one favour to ask: I want to present the Council two proposals that I have prepared already. One is about the reformation, training and arming of the VPD, the other is about the expansion of the electric grid across the kingdom, both of these with the GDI's help. And I need you, Professor, to speak in my favour during the next session in order to help them accept them. Is this something doable on your part?"
"I believe that is something I can help with. I want to take a closer look at those proposals, but judging them by their descriptions, they sound like worthy endeavours to pursue." Assured the Professor.
Chris sighed in relief. He already has a feeling that dealing with governmental bodies will be a constant source of headaches in the future, if they are as competent as they were back on Earth (In other words, not). They always hate when change, even positive, comes from outside of their influence. Seeing how influential the Professor was, he hoped that he and his group will be able to help him tackle any sort of bureaucratical barrier he might come across.
The Commander stepped closer to the group.
"Then I guess this alliance is now official." He declared loudly, then he raised his hand." I hope this cooperation will be fruitful in the future."
"So do we, Mr. Turner." Added Ozpin, then he raised his hand, and respectfully shock him. Qrow, Ironwood and Glynda Follow suit.
"I am glad that we have managed to sort things out, Mr Turner. I am hoping that this alliance will a prosperous one. However, we ask you that everything that has been said during this meeting, including the story of my past, and every bit of information regarding the Relics, my true nature, the Maidens and Salem, will not leave this room. That is absolutely vital, and I hope my trust in you will not be misplaced. Is that understood?" The Professor's voice was rather firm. It still had hints of that warm, cordial tone, but it was more commanding. Chris understood why he would want it keep this under the wraps, so he decided to play along. There was no need to alienate his recently made allies.
"I understand. Your secrets will be safe with me, I can promise you that." He said, trying to sound as convincing as possible.
"Just so be clear," chimed in Qrow, interrupting Ozpin, "don't forget that meeting you have promised me with Raven. If you forget that, then I have to kick your sorry ass."
He could help but chuckle. "I will keep that in mind. Now I believe it's time for me to go. It was great to finally meet you all."
"Likewise, Mr. Turner. I hope our next will be this enlightening as well." Said Opzin, as the Commander shook hands with the others in the room as well.
"Oh, before I forget!" He quickly reached for his pocket and placed his business card on the Professor's table. "You know where to find me. If you need my help for anything, just call me, and I will see what I can do." He turned around and walked towards the elevator at the other side of the room.
As he slowly started going down, he was glad that it was this easy to form an alliance. Despite the practise, he was still new to this, after all. And he felt that he could have done better than this.
For now, because he was still weak on a global stage, it was time for cooperation. But he already knew that in the future, he won't have to rely on the Governments of this world. He will more be powerful than all of them combined, and they won't be able oppose him. His will be absolute, and he will be the Lord Protector of Remnant. It was a scarry thought, and he didn't want to think about it too much.
So, to forget about this, he decided to finish the song he was singing as walked across the halls.
I have read a fiery gospel writ in burnished rows of steel
"As ye deal with my contemners, so with you my grace shall deal"
Let the Hero, born of woman, crush the serpent with his heel
Since God is marching on
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Since God is marching on
He has sounded forth the trumpet that shall never call retreat
He is sifting out the hearts of men before His judgment-seat
Oh, be swift, my soul, to answer Him! Be jubilant, my feet!
Our God is marching on
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Our God is marching on
In the beauty of the lilies Christ was born across the sea
With a glory in His bosom that transfigures you and me
As He died to make men holy, let us die to make men free
While God is marching on
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
While God is marching on
He knew that the end of his road was far from over. He just hoped that he could actually reach it.
A/N:
Here is the next chapter. It was surprisingly hard to write for cannon characters, let me tell you. Even the fight scenes were easier were to write than them. And I still feel like I could have done better. This is why this chapter took for so long.
First of all, I want to thank The95will for beta-reading this and all of the previous chapters. His work is invaluable.
I am planning on uploading this story to AO3 soon to preserve it for two reasons. 1. In case the site decides to purge this fic for memory reasons 2. Or if a certain group of people on this site decides to mass report this fic for "rule breaking", or some stupid stuff like that.
I am also thinking about my next fanfic. It will be a Fallout x Chainsaw Man crossover. Or maybe a Fallout x A Certain Magical Index one. Or something else. I haven't decided yet. But it will a crossover involving Fallout, that is for sure.
Speaking of of the new fanfiction, I am looking for a separate Beta-reader for that one. If you are interested, just PM me.
Comment Reply Time!
frankieu: Thank You!
wolves567: Don't worry, this won't be the final time that these two groups will clash.
alaxbird: At least you have enjoyed it, and that's all that matters.
And yeah, I have my own quirks, when it comes to certain things.
Warmach1ne32: That was not Adam. That guy was just one of his lieutenants, although he was the one who ordered him to do that.
snipervtk4: Thank you! Your comment helped me write this chapter a lot, when it came to the negotiation scenes.
And regarding the stations of cannon: Some of them will happen, but some other have already been derailed, and expect more derailment in the future.
Guest: I am glad that you did.
Evil Bad Guy: Don't worry, they are already in production. They just need wait for the right moment to be activated.
Janny092: Thank you! While not all chapter will feature action, they will happen in future, that is for sure.
TheJSmooth: Just because someone is a subordinate, this doesn't mean they don't deserve respect.
And thank you for the compliment.
Napster153: I am… glad that I have inspired you. It makes me feel happy that I have had a positive impact on someone. I never thought I would live to see the day. So good luck on your writing!