Team CRLN had answered their leader's summons and were soon at the docks of Vale. The three teammates found Caelum leaning on a railing and gazing out into the waterways. Lukas as vocal as ever, demanded to know why they were brought out.

Caelum brought a letter out from his pocket. "My father has sent something for me. I need help with its transport."

Lukas sighed heavily. "Your father got ya something and you want us to carry your luggage? Am I getting that straight?"

"Follow me and you'll see" answered Caelum, taking off in the opposite direction. Past bustling crowds and small vehicles transporting crates of material, the team found themselves at the aerial freighters' landing zone where brightly vested workers were offloading and docking the large airborne cargo ships.

The boys stopped in front of a massive rusted ship. Perhaps one of the largest at the dock and clearly an older vessel. Miffed at being a cargo carrier, Lukas sounded his resentment from behind Caelum. "Your precious gifts aboard that rust bucket?"

Caelum raised a hand, asking for a moment as an older man jotted towards him. The boys could not hear the conversation between Caelum and the rugged-looking man. But raised a few eyebrows as the man handed over a small case and raised his hand abruptly. Caelum caught him by his wrist and shook his head a fraction. The man noticed his teammates and nodded in understanding before disappearing amongst the workers.

Caelum waved for his peers to follow him to the ship as he rifled through the small case.

"Did that man try to salute you?" Raiden asked, glancing back into the crowd where the man disappeared.

As Niel and Lukas swapped glances of curiosity at Raiden's observation Caelum gave no reply. The silence persisted as they walked aboard the ship. It was eerily silent. Not another soul was aboard leaving the empty and vast halls echoing with their footsteps as they proceeded up flight after flight of stairs.

Along the way, they saw numerous numbers, scribbles, and graffiti along the walls. The most notable of which was clearly no defacement. It was a stylized cross with a sun behind it, giving off bright rays of light. Foreign symbols none of the boys had ever seen except for Caelum. His stern expression showed displeasure as they kept passing the repeating emblem that seemed to be everywhere.

Eventually, Caelum turned a large latch and unlocked a thick door, one with the same symbol but in gold. The boys stepped into the bridge. As dilapidated and run down as it was, they were still impressed at the complex layout, unlike any would expect of a freighter, especially one of its age.

"It's in better condition than I thought," said Caelum dusting off the captain's seat and spinning it around. Taking a seat and crossing one leg over the other, he motioned for the others to sit.

"This is good condition?" asked Niel, pointing to the hanging wires above their heads. Without an answer, the three then sat behind an array of offline panels and seats as they eyed him curiously. In the dim room with no power, sunlight poured in from the bridge's forward windows, showing the port and cargo containers on the ship's bow.

"This ship is the 'gift' my father delivered."

His team was understandably confused. Niel was the first to speak in awe. "Your father… gave you a freighter?"

Caelum took a deep breath. Contemplating what words he should speak. Clasping his hands together, he gazed at the ground. The difficulty in what he was about to say was clear. "I cannot tell you everything. Only what is essential for this imminent task. Is that acceptable with you all?" Caelum tilted his head upwards, an unemotional but somehow vulnerable glare coming from his usually fierce brown eyes.

Raiden was the first to give an imminent answer. "If it's this important to you, I understand."

Niel nodded, crossing his arms. "You've always been of few words and justifiable actions. I trust your reasoning."

Lukas kicked his feet up on the dash in front of him. A displeased look on his face. "I'll hear ya out but if I don't like it then I'm out of here."

Raiden defended Caelum's position. "He can't say unless you're onboard."

Caelum shook his head. "No, it is fine. He has just as much to lose if he snitches. Isn't that right?" Caelum's usual sharp glare returned, focusing on Lukas who stiffened on the receiving end. His eyes narrowed but he gave no refusal.

Leaning back in his seat, Caelum ran a finger through his hair. He chewed on his bottom lip for a moment. This is not a freighter. It's a battleship."

"Bull" declared Lukas. "Ignoring its state, there's no ship this size in any fleet on Remnant. Not even Atlas."

The boys looked at him as if he was insane. Buckling down, Caelum hiked a thumb at the window behind him. Those containers are empty. This entire ship is. They're covering the holes in the hull left by the guns and missile bays being scrapped. Right now you are on what's left of the Mantlean Aerial ship Hemera, better known as the MAS Hemera. Former flagship of the former Empire of Mantle.

Raiden jumped to his feet, a fit of enthusiasm taking him. "This is the Hemera?!" It makes sense! The size! The age! These controls are to the different compartments and readings for the guns and engines! No wonder it seems so strange! It's not a part of any current nation's fleet! It was the queen of the sky decades ago!" As if proving himself he began scanning the dusty controls and dashes, their steel and glass surfaces indeed having unusual metrics and readings not found on civilian ships. Lukas and Niel watched from behind their enamored friend before turning to Caelum for an explanation.

"Why's your pa sending a nearly defunct battleship to his son?"

"My family and its 'actions' are complicated, to say the least."

"You don't say?" sneered Lukas.

Caelum ignored the remark and proceeded. "To give you a rough clue, My father has prior contacts in the Atlas military. Quite a few prominent figures in that floating shithole owe him a favor, their careers, or even lives despite certain circumstances."

Caelum then pulled the same letter out of his jacket once more, waving it back and forth. "In this letter, my father told me this ship was finally designated to be scrapped. The decision was postponed by remnants from Mantle's government over the last few decades but was pushed through by Ironwood and his loyalists as well as the democratic coalition."

"What?!" spouted Raiden. "This is a piece of history! It was a flagship in the great war! It played a part in every major aerial and naval battle! It even participated in the bombardment of Vale!"

Caelum waved a dismissive hand, ushering his partner to sit. "That's exactly why it's slated for scrap. It's considered an embarrassing reminder of once-imperial ambitions. The stated reason however is the change of doctrine within Atlas."

Caelum raised his arms high and wide before dropping them into his lap. "This ship was made with the big guns policy in mind. Large capital ships were meant for leveling cities, fortifications, and other ships. Naturally, this was very expensive. With inter-human wars ceasing after the great color revolution and its resulting treaties, all nations switched to anti-Grimm doctrines. Lighter, smaller ships. Carriers with troop-deploying bullheads, energy weapons, and elegant designs took priority. Maximize the troops you place on the ground and number of birds to evac them in case the ground assault goes wrong. Only thing to worry about in the air are Grimm flocks."

"People, rifles, and now robots built a dime a dozen are seen as more cost-efficient and better for public relations than daunting battleships from an era that Atlas wants to forget."

Caelum snickered bitterly. "All bureaucratic bull and focused on imminent problems such as the next election." He seemed to realize he was speaking too honestly and straightened himself in his seat, clearing his throat.

"Now the official reason We have this is to preserve and restore it. Can I count on your assistance?"

Lukas seemed suspicious of the statement. "Official huh? Would that include restoring the guns?"

Caelum held firm eye contact. "Perhaps upgrades here and there."

Lukas laughed. "Ha, then I guess the first order of business is where to store her, ain't it?"

"I was thinking that perhaps we contact your father for such a thing. Would that be possible?"

"You insinuating he doesn't own up to his word?"

"I'm simply asking if he is really willing to help in this endeavor. I will also require forms of contact and financing for reconstruction and retrofitting. Hands for working, materials, tools. Even I'm not so stubborn to argue it's a fair trade."

Lukas sneered at the explanation. "My old man does what he says he will. I'll talk to him about it and even put in a good word as this venture seems interesting if not promising. I already have a place in mind for it. Personal docks used by my old man's business."

"That's all I can ask. I will be indebted-"

"Lukas raised a hand, cutting him off. "He owes ya. You two are even past this. Gotta say though, I'm sure he'll get a laugh once I tell him. You sure do know how to call in favors."

Caelum gave a nod in thanks. "Then next comes moving it." Turning in his seat, Caelum placed a key in and pressed a series of controls. A dull purple light illuminated the room as the window outside darkened, an automatic tint taking it as the lighting inside brightened and then dimmed with their eyes. The control panels hummed to life as numbers, words, glitching holograms, and various sounds took their ears.

Caelum himself walked to each panel and inspected them, telling each of his peers what to inform him of if it appeared. Finally, their team leader placed a headset around his neck and spoke into the mic. "Tower, this is freighter 4108. We have offloaded all cargo and switched crews. Permission to take off."

Static rose before the voice on the other end of the transmission stabilized, coming through on the ship's intercom. "Freighter 4108, your frequency tracker is not responding. I repeat, your frequency tracker is not responding. You are advised under Valean law to standby until it is activated or repaired."

Caelum sneered before responding. "Tower our device seems to be inoperable. Despite that, we are an Atlean airship. As such efficiency is our prerogative. I am aware all international airstrips are treated as international territory and therefore Valean law is more of a courtesy to us. We will be taking off as scheduled. I repeat we will be taking off."

"Captain I advise you reconsider. If you're downed out in transit without that tracker operational there will be no rescue coming after you."

The boys seemed impressed at Caelum's handling of the situation and empathetic to the man on the other end, simply doing his job and only wanting the best. Unfettered by the goodwill, Caelum pushed. "We are thankful for your concern but lien makes the world go round and we do our part here. We will be taking off immediately."

There was a hesitation as static came over the mic. "...Roger that. You have permission and safe travels. Take care, boys."

"Thank you tower. Bless us all." With the final permission given Caelum took to the pilot's seat. The ship's engines flared with creaks and groans as the structure levitated slightly. Its VTOL capabilities felt more like an amusement park ride. After a short stomach-churning take-off, the old bird was in the air and on its way to Lukas's foretold spot.

Lukas reclined in his chair once more, no longer worried about the ship crashing as Raiden excitedly wandered the bridge with Niel in tow, listening to his historical ramblings. "What are you gonna call this old coffin anyways? Can't be carrying around a name that struck fear over 80 years ago can we?"

Focused on piloting, Caelum didn't look away from piloting, especially as it had a slight drift to the right. "Thinking back to the cross and sun emblem plastered across the ship, what had been its symbol so long ago, Caelum pondered the dilemma.

Mantle had been demonized over the years as an oppressor in the Great War. In no short part by Atlas and its new administration and nobility in the post-war years. Within Mantle and the former nobility, however, another story was often told to him and others every generation. That there had been hopes for a united world with Mantle at the lead. One where they were a shining light, the sun casting away the darkness. Hence their flagship was named Hemera. That future, that hope no longer existed. Its owner was now him, its new purpose a far cry from what it was when the hull was laid.

"Nyx," answered Caelum, looking back out to the sky. "This ship will be the Nyx."

Soon the Newly christened Nyx found its first voyage completed from Vale's northwest commercial section down to the far southeastern agricultural area where large harvesters and cargo ships docked to transport harvests. The plan became self-evident. The coil syndicate had stakes in the area and a large cargo ship like this left in dry dock would go unnoticed by all. Even those hired to work on it wouldn't know its true purpose.

Team CRLN's day hadn't ended just yet. As the ship was docked and left in the hands of a few unassuming individuals who worked for the syndicate, Team CRLN was sent a bullhead to take them back to Vales commercial district.

Lukas spoke with his father on the trip, a hologram of the greyed man appearing and as Lukas had said, gave unhesitating support as he had given his word. The only catch was that it would be 'difficult' to justify such expenditures to his associates and so the boys would need to 'do some heavy lifting of their own.' The first of which they were on their way to meet.

The team followed Lukas now who, back in his own element, strutted the dimming streets of Vale as evening set in and the sun fell. Soon they found themselves before a club, not unlike the one they had met his father in. In bright flashing letters the club's name presented itself. "Juniors."

The bouncers and security passed suspicious eyes at the boys until Lukas confidently waved away their suspicions. Pulling a small emerald emblem from his pocket the men all averted their attention back to the crowd of people waiting to get in as the boys were escorted into the club by two security members.

Despite Lukas's nonchalant attitude and Raiden and Niel feeling excited about the VIP treatment, Caelum seemed on edge. His eyes darted around the club and its blinding lights while the harsh bass assaulted their ears. He noticed as they were being escorted backstage that a few more of the staff began following them as well. A bartender here, another security guard there. He had placed his trust in the Coil syndicate but not out of faith and so prepared himself to escape if needed.

It thankfully was unnecessary. The boys were taken to a VIP room where the walls were soundproofed. It was as if the club didn't even exist if it hadn't been for the screen showing live footage that was currently muted. Before the boys had even taken their seats the staff that had tailed them took to catering. The security stood outside their door guarding it as the bartenders served them drinks and snacks.

Ever polite, Raiden and Niel thanked the gentleman as Lukas popped a bottle of some fancy liquor. Pouring a bit for everyone he smugly bragged "Bout time I got to show ya what being a Coil is like."

Slamming back his drink he let a satisfied gasp run from his lips as his team cautiously followed. Caelum threw his back with only a displeased look on his face.

"Tch, no fun" chided Lukas turning to his peers on his other side. Niel sought to imitate them and downed his in one go. He immediately began coughing raspily. Raiden eyed his drink cautiously and took a sip, the strong odor assaulting his nose as he forced it down. Seeing Lukas's grin, he fought to finish the drink.

It was as Niel calmed down and Lukas began demanding everyone take another that their host arrived. A tall man with grey eyes, a head of short black hair with a beard to match, dressed in the same uniform as the club's staff, stood before them. On either side of him was a set of black-haired twins in red and white dresses and matching makeup.

The man eyed the four boys before bowing his head, the two girls notably snickering behind him with none of his courtesy. "Greetings. I am Hei Xiong, owner of this establishment and frontman for the Coil syndicate. It is my understanding that you all are friends of the boss's son and seeking assistance?"

Lukas threw his arms wide. "Junior! Glad to see ya still in good health. I heard you got your nuts in a literal bind a few months back when your bar was trashed. How are the family jewels?"

The two girls began laughing, failing to hide their snickers from their boss as he responded. Obviously displeased with the remark he held his courtesy and replied politely. "I am in perfect health, thank you. May we proceed?"

Ignoring him Lukas explained to his team how they knew each other. "Junior here is the successor to the Xiong group. Took it from his dad and subsequently absorbed by my father. He's the know-it-all all of Vale's dark side but no one knows it's for the syndicate, see? I even grew up referring to him as an older brother for a while, though he's always sucked at humor."

Junior obviously didn't wish to reminisce but allowed Lukas to continue until Caelum interrupted. "Enough. Who are those two?" he demanded, gesturing at the girls.

Junior and the girls seemed surprised at his attitude toward Lukas and shot questioning looks at the young successor. Slightly annoyed, Lukas crossed his arms. "Don't mind him he's all work and no play. Name's Caelum Hyalus, leader of our team. These two are Raiden Gorm and Niel Taklashin."

Before Lukas could introduce the girls they stepped forward with playful hums. The one in white brushed a hand against her chest. "I'm Melanie Malachite." The one in red placed a hand on her waist. "I'm Miltia Malachite." the two then spoke in unison. "Pleasure to meet you."

Lukas elbowed Caelum slightly, "These two are family as well, granted they cause more problems than they solve."

"Well that's not nice," said Melanie strutting towards Lukas with Miltia following behind. "We just do as we're paid." Like two elder sisters, they playfully assaulted Lukas, Rubbing his hair into a mess and pinching his cheeks. Fending them off he offered a drink as they retreated.

The two declined as their eyes turned towards Caelum and Raiden, the latter still fighting to finish his drink in secret. Melanie leaned towards Caelum. "Our friends Call me Mel." Miltia mimicked her sister with Raiden who choked on his drink. "And me Mil."

Seeing Caelum's unaffected expression and Raiden's flustered faces the two girls giggled mischievously. Melanie brushed a hand down Caelum's thigh, cooeing into his ear. "So calm and composed, yet an air of mystery. Perfect to break."

Miltia grabbed Raiden's hand that held his glass and helped him set it down while brushing her thumb against his fingers. With a more domineering tone, she looked down at him as he watched her with wide eyes in frozen surprise. "Shy and innocent, ripe to educate."

The two stood straight and spoke simultaneously. "We like that." Sharing a glance they joined hands and switched spots before crashing down next to Caelum and Radien. "Then again," said Melanie. "Perhaps a little variety is nice" finished Miltia

With Miltia brushing closely against his side, Caelum cast a displeased look at Lukas who shrugged. "What are ya complaining for when poor Niel is left out of the loop?" An indignant "Hey!" came from Niel as Lukas laughed and Raiden's mind seemed to crash as Melanie latched onto his arm.

With a roll of his eyes, Junior took a seat opposite the boys and girls. The talks soon commenced with Caelum stating his position. Although unaffected by the Malachites, he was soon sidelined as Lukas and Junior began discussing the finer details of their organization.

Eventually, Lukas dismissed Caelum, even growing annoyed himself at the Malachite's playfulness. "Mel, Mil, take your toys for a spin while we talk business."

"Sure thing!" they said standing up and with surprising strength, hoisting the boys up and with them. Melanie carried Raiden off easily as Miltia fought to get Caelum to follow.

"I am not a plaything" he grated.

"You are if you want this deal to go through" informed Lukas. Glowering at his grin, Caelum conceded and allowed a cheery Miltia to pull him along.

"Don't break them either! I still need them!" Lukas called after the girls who gave an uncaring flick of their wrists in response.

"Are you sure you should have done that?" asked Junior. "Your leader seemed pretty pissed.

Lukas chuckled to himself, glancing at Niel who had passed out from a surprisingly low alcohol tolerance not too long ago. "I'll have hell to pay later but I gotta get some licks in when I can."

"Opportunist as ever" chuckled Junior. Soon the details were finalized between the two. So long as certain 'commissions' were provided and certain conditions met, all would be provided. The first price Caleum had to pay was being dragged through a dance floor by two eccentric clubbers with a bewildered Riaden. Easy enough and yet, he'd rather be starving in a forest fighting Grimm.

-Chapter End-