As the plan to discreetly guide Cole's choices took shape, internal dissent among Salem's followers became apparent.
Hazel, typically the voice of reason, voiced his concerns, "Mistress Salem, is it wise to shape our entire strategy around one man's relationships? We must consider the broader consequences of such actions."
Watts, reluctantly willing to comply, added, "Hazel is right. We should tread carefully. Focusing solely on one man's affairs might jeopardize our larger objectives."
Tyrian, fueled by anger, sneered, "Why should we dance around one man's whims? Mistress Salem, your power is absolute; you need not bend to the desires of a mortal."
Cinder, adopting a tone resembling that of a jealous sister, spoke up, "I understand your feelings, Mistress Salem, but perhaps there's a better way to secure Cole's loyalty without resorting to such measures."
As the discussions unfolded, tension grew within the group, each member offering a different perspective on how to handle Salem's demand.
Meanwhile, Lilac, Reaper, and Baron entered the castle. Lilac, visibly upset, confronted Baron about a broken promise, "You swore Weiss wouldn't be harmed, and now look at what's happened!"
Reaper lay unconscious, a sword named Black Unicorn by his side. Lilac's anger simmered as the consequences of broken promises unfolded within Salem's dominion.
In the midst of the discord among her followers, Salem, her eyes gleaming with ancient wisdom, raised a hand to quell the rising dissent. The weight of her words hung in the air as she spoke, "Hazel, Watts, Tyrian, Cinder... do not forget that Ozpin, once the object of my ire, faced manipulations far more intricate than those I now consider for Cole."
A solemn hush fell upon the room as Salem continued, her voice carrying the weight of centuries, "You all served under me during those times. The threads of destiny intertwined with Ozpin's choices, and you did not flinch in carrying out my will. Now, as we navigate this delicate dance with Cole, I ask for the same loyalty and understanding."
Hazel, Watts, Tyrian, and Cinder exchanged glances, their objections tempered by the reminder of their shared history. Salem's gaze bore into each of them, her dominance reasserted. "We are orchestrators of fate, and our goals transcend the confines of personal feelings. Cole is merely a vessel through which our larger designs may unfold."
Lilac, Baron, and Reaper, witnessing this exchange, took a step back, realizing the intricate tapestry of manipulation that had woven itself throughout Salem's existence. The room, once filled with dissent, now carried a palpable sense of submission to Salem's indomitable will.
As the echoes of their past endeavors with Ozpin lingered in the air, the followers, silenced by the weight of history and the reminder of their allegiance, awaited further instructions from the immortal queen of the castle.
Salem, her gaze piercing through the shadows, turned her attention to Baron with a calculated intensity. "Baron," she began, "Reaper's actions against the Schnee girl and the white wolves have drawn my concern. Explain the purpose and consequences of bringing the father to me in his dying moments."
Baron, feeling the weight of Salem's scrutiny, swallowed nervously before responding, "Mistress Salem, it was a strategic move. The Schnee family holds influence, and by displaying their patriarch's demise, we aimed to sow further discord among their ranks."
Salem's eyes narrowed, probing for deeper meaning. "And the white wolves? What purpose did their demise serve in our grand design?"
Baron hesitated, choosing his words carefully. "Mistress, the white wolves were a symbol of unity among the Faunus. Their elimination aimed to fracture that unity, creating internal strife that could be exploited in the future."
Salem's expression remained inscrutable. "While I appreciate cunning strategies, ensure that such actions align with our overarching goals. I seek not only chaos but a reshaping of the world according to my design. Subtlety, Baron, is as valuable as brute force."
As the air in the room grew heavier with Salem's expectations, Baron, now acutely aware of the delicate balance required in serving his queen's ambitions, nodded solemnly and vowed to tread more carefully in the future. The castle, a stage for manipulation and intricate machinations, continued to echo with the consequences of each calculated move within Salem's dominion.
Salem's patience worn thin, she raised a grimm-infused tentacle from the floor, striking Baron with a force that sent him crashing through the castle doors. The ominous sound of splintering wood reverberated through the halls as she followed him, her presence a looming shadow.
Standing over the fallen Baron, Salem demanded answers, her voice a cold whisper that echoed through the castle corridors. "Explain, Baron. How did Reaper, under your command, become a harbinger of chaos? Why did he attempt to kill the heiress of the Schnee Dust Company, murder a family, and abduct an innocent child?"
Baron, struggling to rise, stammered in response, "Mistress, Reaper believed those actions would further our cause, create chaos, and weaken our enemies."
Salem's eyes narrowed, the intensity of her gaze unrelenting. "And why, Baron, did I learn about these atrocities only after the father's demise from his daughter? Was this deception or incompetence?"
Baron, now on his knees, offered a shaky explanation, "Mistress Salem, I thought it prudent to deal with the aftermath before troubling you with the details. Reaper's descent into madness was unforeseen."
Salem, displeased by the insubordination and lack of foresight, raised another tentacle, a silent warning. "Your negligence has consequences, Baron. Ensure that your next moves align with the subtlety and precision our grand design requires."
As Salem towered over Baron, the castle doors lay broken in the wake of her wrath. The unfolding events within her dominion hinted at a fragile balance, where loyalty was tested, and consequences were swift for those who dared to deviate from her vision.
Lilac, resolute and unyielding, stepped forward from the shadows, her eyes holding a mix of frustration and determination. "Mistress Salem, Baron has not been forthright in his account. Reaper's actions were not independent; they were orchestrated under Baron's command."
Salem turned her gaze toward Lilac, intrigued yet displeased. "Explain, Lilac. What do you mean?"
Lilac's words cut through the tension, "Reaper drove the heiress of the Schnee Dust Company to flee from our base because Baron broke his word to obey you and protect the girl. Baron's betrayal sowed chaos and eroded the very foundations of our mission."
Baron, now caught in the crossfire, attempted to defend himself, "Mistress Salem, Lilac is distorting the truth. I had no hand in Reaper's actions. He acted independently."
Lilac, undeterred, retorted, "I have witnessed Baron's deceit firsthand. He failed to honor his vow to protect the girl, leading to her escape and the unraveling of our plans."
Salem, displeasure etched on her face, turned her attention back to Baron. "Baron, the consequences of betrayal within my domain are severe. Explain yourself truthfully, for you're actions now carry the weight of retribution."
As Lilac's revelation lingered in the air, the castle echoed with the unfolding drama, and the fate of Baron and the consequences of his lies hung in the balance within Salem's dominion.
Dr. Merlot, with a calculated determination, approached Reaper, his eyes gleaming with a peculiar mix of pride and resentment. "Mistress Salem," he began, "Reaper was the other half of my research for Project Sigma. He was intended to be your husband, and the culmination of my experiments to create an immortal and powerful companion for you."
Salem, intrigued, turned her attention toward Merlot, "Explain further, Doctor."
Merlot continued, "Reaper's unique abilities, his resilience, and strength were meant to complement your own. But I recently discovered it was Baron who stole him from my lab, altering the course of my carefully designed plans."
Watts, standing nearby, nodded in agreement. "I was there when Merlot found out about Sigma's disappearance. Baron's deceit disrupted the careful balance we had strived to achieve in Project Sigma."
Salem's eyes narrowed as she regarded the unconscious form of Reaper. "So, Baron's actions have not only disrupted our plans but left Reaper incapacitated," she mused, her voice tinged with a subtle edge.
Dr. Merlot, frustrated by the turn of events, spoke up, "Mistress Salem, we must address Baron's betrayal and the consequences it has wrought upon our carefully laid plans. Reaper, unconscious though he may be, still holds the potential that Project Sigma intended for you."
Watts, ever the strategist, added, "We need to ascertain the extent of Reaper's condition and decide how to proceed. Baron's actions have repercussions that extend beyond the immediate chaos he's caused."
Salem, with a commanding presence, issued her orders to her loyal followers. "Dr. Merlot, Watts, tend to Reaper's condition. Uncover the extent of Baron's interference in Project Sigma and gather any information that might aid in rectifying the situation."
Merlot and Watts nodded in acknowledgment, swiftly moving to carry out Salem's instructions.
Turning her attention to Tyrian and Hazel, Salem's voice held an edge of urgency. "Tyrian, Hazel, go to Vacuo. Hunt for Cole. Ensure he is brought back under our dominion. His absence has lingered long enough."
Tyrian, eager to please, responded with a fervent, "Yes, my goddess!"
Hazel, nodding in agreement, followed Tyrian with a stoic demeanor.
Salem then addressed Cinder and Lilac, "Cinder, Lilac, seek out Ozpin's next incarnation. Bring him to me. Ensure that he is delivered unharmed."
Cinder, now with a renewed sense of purpose, responded, "Yes, Mistress Salem. We will find him."
Lilac, still seething from the recent revelations, followed Cinder with a determined look.
Finally, Salem's gaze fell to Baron and knocked him unconscious, ordered a beringal seductively "take my guest to the cells downstairs, I'll deal with him personally" The grimm snorted and went off do just that tossing baron on its broad shoulders.
Salem, with a heavy heart, walked towards the sword the white wolf wielded named, black unicorn and grabbed it from the cart reaper was brought in on and made her way towards her throne room and used her bare hand to open the heavy obsidian doors, eyed the lifeless body of Geralt hanging above her throne. She took hold of the sword Black Unicorn, its dark energy resonating with the gravity of the moment.
As she mounted Black Unicorn by Geralt's side, the castle absorbed the weight of the melancholy revelation. The once mighty warrior, now reduced to a tragic existence, became a testament to the complexities and sorrows woven within Salem's dominion.
"I was a mother once, I know what pains you and those closest, and I am sorry that this is the best I can do," Salem whispered solemnly. A black mass burst forth from within her chest, snaking its way toward Geralt's lifeless form. It climbed into the man's head, weaving through his body, causing it to writhe and convulse as it worked on the intricate task of bringing him back to life.
After she left the throne room, a seer grimm flew close to Salem. The mystical creature showed her a vision of Cole leaving the love hotel with Ilia, strolling through the vibrant streets of Vacuo. The diverse crowd of Vacuian people, with their varying heights and ages, provided a backdrop to this seemingly ordinary scene.
As Cole and Ilia left the love hotel in Vacuo, the lively streets beckoned with the hustle and bustle of people from all walks of life. Cole turned to Ilia with a grin, "You seem like you know your way around here. Mind showing me around? I'm a bit turned aroundout here."
Ilia, familiar with his emotions by now, replied yawning "sure. Vacuo can be a bit overwhelming at first, but I'll make sure you get the grand tour."
They wandered through the vibrant streets, with Ilia pointing out local markets, bustling shops, and unique landmarks. The city's energy was palpable, and Ilia's knowledge made the exploration feel like an exciting adventure.
Cole marveled at the diversity of Vacuo's population, a melting pot of cultures and backgrounds. "It's incredible how different Vacuo is compared to mistral, its not as bad as I heard."
Ilia smiled, "It's a luxury resort. Vacuo might seem chaotic, but there's a beauty in its diversity and resilience. Plus, it's always more enjoyable with good company."
Cole sighed as he smirked at that part and bumped her with a nudge, "We're just friends, remember, that Last night won't happen again okay?"
Giving him a nod she pulled him towards a stand selling water packs.
As they continued their exploration, the streets of Vacuo echoed with the sounds of life and the promise of new experiences. The duo embraced the spirit of the city, navigating its twists and turns, with each step revealing more about the tapestry of Vacuo's vibrant culture.
As Cole and Ilia continued their exploration of Vacuo's vibrant streets, they suddenly found themselves face to face with May Zedong. The atmosphere grew tense, and Cole's expression darkened as he remembered the events from their past encounters.
"Well, well, look who we have here," May said, her tone casual but her eyes locking onto Cole's.
Cole, held back by Ilia, couldn't contain his anger. "You nearly killed Weiss, you lunatic! What's your game, May?"
Ilia tightened her grip on Cole's arm, attempting to diffuse the tension. "Cole, let's not-"
But Cole, fueled by his protective instincts, continued, "She's not just 'enjoying the chaos.' You're a danger to innocent people."
May, unfazed, smirked, "Life's a gamble, isn't it? Weiss made it out okay in the end. Not my fault if some people can't handle the heat."
The air crackled with tension as Ilia struggled to restrain Cole's mounting anger, preventing a potential confrontation in the bustling streets of Vacuo. May, with a nonchalant attitude, continued on her way, leaving behind a palpable sense of unresolved conflict.
In the tense moment, Ilia glanced at Cole, her eyes conveying an unspoken understanding. "You know what, sic her," she said releasing Cole's arm.
With a fierce look that promised pain, Cole surged forward, and both he chased after May through the lively streets of Vacuo. The atmosphere shifted from casual encounters to a high-stakes pursuit, catching May off guard.
May's overconfident smirk transformed into a look of genuine concern as she realized the gravity of the situation. The once bustling streets now became a maze, and panic flashed in May's eyes as she darted through alleys and weaved through the crowds, desperately trying to shake off the relentless pursuit.
As the chase through the bustling streets of Vacuo intensified, Cole's rage manifested in crackling lightning that danced around him, emphasizing the tumultuous storm of emotions within. Ilia, determined to keep up with his electrifying pace, matched his strides, her agile movements allowing her to navigate the crowded alleys and streets.
The onlookers, Initially unaware of the unfolding pursuit, now witnessed the dramatic display of elemental fury as Cole and Ilia closed in on May. The crackling lightning served as a visual warning, a testament to the raw power of Cole's anger.
May, once confident in her ability to navigate the chaotic streets, now felt the pressure of Cole's pursuit. The electrifying display intensified her desperation as she zigzagged through the alleys, seeking any route to escape the relentless chase.
The clash of powers and emotions turned the streets of Vacuo into a dynamic battleground, with the electric storm of Cole's rage contrasting against the agile pursuit led by Ilia.
In a narrow alley, the confrontation reached its climax. May, attempting to stand her ground, faced Cole's wrath head-on. As he gathered the electric energy within him, a bolt of lightning shot forth with a blinding intensity, striking May squarely in the shoulder.
The crackling sound echoed through the alley as May, now wounded and disoriented, crashed through the roof of a nearby building. The spectators who had gathered to watch the spectacle gasped at the unexpected turn of events.
With the alley now silent except for the fading echoes of the lightning, Ilia and Cole cautiously approached the wreckage. The dust settled as they found May amidst the debris, struggling to recover from the impact.
Cole's expression was stern as he confronted May. "Enough of your games. What's your excuse for finding me, you trying to kill me for a bounty too!?"
May, pain evident in her eyes, struggled to maintain her defiant stance. "I don't answer to anyone. I play by my own rules."
Ilia, her tone firm, added, "Your rules nearly cost someone their life. This ends now."
As the dust settled, the confrontation shifted from a high-stakes pursuit to a moment of reckoning. Cole, fueled by a sense of justice, and Ilia, standing by his side, awaited May's response within the aftermath of the clash In the heart of Vacuo.
As Cole's rage boiled over, he unleashed a series of punches and kicks, each strike punctuating his questions. "Who sent you? What's your motive?" he demanded, his voice laden with anger.
May, reeling from the onslaught, struggled to respond. "I... I don't know what you're talking about," she stammered, attempting to shield herself from the blows.
Ilia, torn between the violence unfolding before her and the need for answers, hesitated but remained a silent observer, her eyes reflecting concern.
Cole, fueled by frustration, continued his relentless assault. "Don't play games! Innocent lives are at stake because of you. Who's pulling your strings?"
May, now more desperate than defiant, finally managed to gasp out, "I don't know anything about who sent me. I'm just surviving in this chaotic world."
The alley echoed with the sounds of the physical and verbal clash, an intense moment of confrontation that revealed the intricate struggles within Salem's dominion. As Cole's assault continued, the lines between justice and vengeance blurred together like two tones of paint in a bowl.
As Cole's rage-driven assault on May escalated, Ilia, her concern deepening, stepped forward, determined to intervene. "Cole, that's enough," she urged, her voice cutting through the echoes of the alley.
Attempting to restrain him, Ilia gently placed a hand on Cole's shoulder, trying to pull him away from May. "You need answers, not mindless violence," she reasoned, her eyes pleading with him to regain control.
"Even for you this is too harsh for a feud from years ago"
Cole, caught in the fervor of his emotions, momentarily resisted, but Ilia's touch and words began to cut through the fog of anger. Slowly, he relented, ceasing his physical assault but maintaining a stern and accusing gaze on May.
Taking a deep breath, he shoved her into the still standing wall and said "you'd kill her if she'd almost killed Blake and her family"
"Yeah I know, but she's still not worth it. Cole I'm here for you but there needs to be a line you won't cross"
The alley, once filled with the sounds of conflict, now hung in an uneasy silence. Ilia, standing between Cole and May, became a pivotal force in tempering the storm of emotions that had unfolded within the chaotic heart of Vacuo.
Ilia continued, her gaze unwavering, "We're better than this, Cole. There are other ways to find out what we need. Let's not become what we're fighting against."
Cole, still seething with anger, struggled to find the balance between his desire for answers and the realization that Ilia was right. He reluctantly took a step back, allowing space between himself and May.
May, leaning against the wall, shot a defiant glare at Cole, her confidence seemingly unshaken despite the physical ordeal. "You can't break me that easily," she spat out, a hint of defiance in her voice.
Ilia, maintaining her stance between them, turned to Cole. "We need a plan, not blind rage. Let's figure out what May knows and how it fits into the bigger picture."
The trio stood in the alley, the tension palpable, as they navigated the aftermath of the emotional storm. Ilia's insistence on restraint became a guiding light, urging them to move forward with purpose rather than succumbing to the chaotic currents that sought to pull them under.
Ilia, recognizing the need for a different approach, took a deep breath and turned her attention to May. "Look, we're all here because something doesn't add up. If you're not working for anyone, help us understand what's going on. Cole, promise me you'll keep your cool, and we can figure this out together."
Cole, still visibly angered but understanding the necessity of a more diplomatic approach, reluctantly nodded in agreement. "I'll behave. Just give us the truth."
May, eyeing both of them warily, hesitated for a moment before nodding in reluctant agreement. "Fine, but no more violence."
Ilia nodded in satisfaction. "Good. Take us to your place. We can talk there."
The group began to navigate the lively streets of Vacuo once again, this time with May leading the way. Ilia, playing the role of the mediator, kept a watchful eye on both Cole and May, ensuring that the fragile truce held as they ventured into the heart of May's world.
As they moved through the vibrant streets of Vacuo, Ilia continued to play the role of the mediator, maintaining a delicate balance between Cole's simmering anger and May's guarded reluctance. The city's lively atmosphere provided an unusual backdrop to this uneasy alliance.
Arriving at May's place, a modest apartment in one of Vacuo's bustling districts, Ilia spoke calmly, "I hope you'll be upfront with me, why are you here in Vacuo?"
May, still wary, opened the door and gestured for them to enter. "Make yourself comfortable, but it better be worth bringing you into my home."
Ilia nodded, and they settled into the cramped space. Ilia's approach softened the tense atmosphere, allowing May to share her perspective without feeling cornered.
May hesitated, glancing between Cole and Ilia before finally deciding to share her story. "After getting out of jail, I joined Juris Accelerated. They're a shady company dealing in bounties, and I became one of their bounty collectors. When I found out you were the target, I couldn't stay with them. I've been on the run since then."
Cole, bewildered, asked, "Who are Juris Accelerated?"
Ilia's expression darkened as she responded in a horrified tone, "They're the ones responsible for anything and everything medicinally, electronic, and robotic all across Remnant. If they were after you, Cole, this goes deeper than we thought."
The revelation hung heavy in the air, setting the stage for a deeper understanding of the intricate web of influences and powers at play within the chaotic world they navigated. The trio, brought together by circumstance, now faced a common enemy that reached far beyond the confines of Vacuo.
May, her eyes reflecting a mix of regret and fear, continued, "Juris Accelerated is involved in some dark dealings. They control a significant portion of technological and medical advancements across Remnant, pulling strings in ways that most people can't even fathom. I had no idea they had their sights set on someone like you."
Cole clenched his fists, a storm of emotions swirling within him. "Why would they want me? What's their endgame?"
May sighed, "I wish I knew. They keep their motives close to the chest. All I know is they're not to be underestimated. Once they decide on a target, they pursue it relentlessly."
Ilia, her usual composed demeanor shaken, added, "We need to figure out what Juris Accelerated wants with Cole and how deep their influence goes. This isn't just about us; it's about dismantling a dangerous force that's been operating in the shadows."
The revelation of Juris Accelerated's Involvement elevated the stakes, thrusting the trio into a shadowy world of corporate intrigue and clandestine machinations. As they grappled with this new reality, their paths became entwined in a complex struggle against a formidable adversary that reached beyond the borders of Vacuo.
Cole turned to Ilia with urgency in his eyes. "Ilia, we need to leave-now. If Juris Accelerated is after me, we can't stay here."
Before they could make a move, the tranquility of the cramped apartment shattered. Security personnel burst through the door and windows, ambushing them with a swift and coordinated assault. May, in the midst of packing, found herself caught off guard.
Cole, instinctively protective, positioned himself between May and the assailants. "May, we'll talk later. Right now, focus on getting out of here."
The confined space became a battleground as Cole and Ilia fought back against the onslaught of security personnel. Strikes and clashes echoed in the small apartment, a chaotic dance between those seeking answers and those desperate to keep their secrets hidden.
As they navigated the fierce confrontation, Cole's determination to protect May and unravel the mystery behind Juris Accelerated's pursuit drove them forward. Each move, each strike, became a step toward uncovering the truth within the tumultuous world they found themselves entangled in.
"May Zedong, your contract has come to an end" one man announced from across the apartment and shot off a few rounds through the walls completely missing her by a wide range.
"may, don't make me regret sparing you " Cole yelled blowing back five men with a Shockwave and accidently smashing them through may's bedroom, which cole just chuckled at them and coughed feeling exhausted from everything up until this moment.
Quickly walking downstairs cole spotted ilia and yanked may into a car ilia opened the back seat of got in as she said "buckle up we need to get out of here"
As the car sped away from the ambush, tension filled the confined space. Cole, his exhaustion mingling with anger, turned to May with a fierce gaze. "Alright, May. Time for some answers. Why the hell were they after you, and why did that guy mention your contract?"
May, trying to catch her breath, glanced nervously at Cole. "It's not that simple, Cole. I-"
Cutting her off, Cole's voice grew sharper. "Don't give me that. We just fought our way out of an ambush. I deserve to know what's going on."
Ilia, sensing the escalating tension, remained silent, giving the two room to address the pressing questions that hung heavily in the air. May hesitated, realizing that the time for half-truths and evasions had come to an end.
May took a deep breath, meeting Cole's intense gaze. "Juris Accelerated hired me as a bounty collector after I got out of jail. But when I found out they had marked you as a target, I couldn't go through with it. I left, and ever since, they've been trying to eliminate me ever since" May's expression shifted, a mixture of guilt and regret. "I don't know the details. They keep things tight. All I knew was that you were a target, and I couldn't be a part of that."
Cole, clenching his fists, demanded, "You could've warned me. Instead, we were blindsided back there."
May, her tone earnest, responded, "I didn't expect them to find me so soon. I thought I could outrun them and keep you safe."
The car continued its journey through the city, the weight of the revelations hanging heavily in the air. The trio, now bound by shared danger and a tangled web of secrets, now were forced to face the uncertain together.
Cole's brows furrowed as he sought more answers. "Who's Project Sigma then? I found documents about them and that project in an underground laboratory when I woke up in a tank full of red crap."
May's eyes widened, and her face paled. A sense of terror crossed her features, and she stammered, "Oh no... It makes sense now. Dr. Merlot... he was working on something, and if Project Sigma is involved, we're in deeper trouble than I thought."
Cole's gaze intensified, demanding further explanation. Before May could respond, he added, "Ilia, don't stop driving. We need to keep moving. Whatever this Project Sigma is, it's connected to Juris Accelerated, and we can't afford to stay still."
Ilia, recognizing the urgency in Cole's voice, pressed on the accelerator. The car surged forward, leaving behind the echoes of revelations and propelling them into an unknown future where secrets, conspiracies, and danger lurked around every corner.
As the car sped through the city, Ilia couldn't help but interject with a concerned tone, "Cole, you should know. The entire Remnant military was investigating Kuriku village as we left. It seems like you've been in the middle of it all ever since you went 'missing' years ago. This can't just be a coincidence."
Cole, grappling with the revelations unfolding before him, nodded in acknowledgment. The realization that his past was intricately woven into a larger tapestry of intrigue and investigation added another layer of complexity to the challenges they faced.
The trio continued their journey, the streets of Vacuo passing by in a blur, each moment revealing more about the enigma that was Project Sigma and the forces that sought to manipulate and control them. In the heart of uncertainty, they pressed forward, determined to uncover the truth that lay concealed within the shadows of Remnant.
May looked at Cole with a sudden realization and said dumbfounded "you were responsible for that huge ass sink hole and mistral burning down- you're the reason that remnant council is creating its first antipersonnel task force"
May's eyes widened with a sudden realization, her expression shifting to a mix of shock and disbelief. She looked at Cole, dumbfounded, and stammered, "Wait... you were responsible for that huge sinkhole and Mistral burning down? You're the reason the Remnant Council is creating its first antipersonnel task force?"
Cole, taken aback by May's accusations, furrowed his brows. "What are you talking about? Sinkholes, Mistral burning down? I have no idea what you're rambling about."
May's tone turned accusatory as she looked directly into Cole's blue and green eyes. "Don't play dumb, Cole. You're the one destroying Faunus breeding camps, targeting Jacques Schnee, orchestrating incidents at Beacon, and killing off members of the High Council. The eyes give it away. You're the reason Remnant is in chaos."
Cole, genuinely confused, asked, "What eyes? I have no memory of any of those things. You've got the wrong person."
Ilia, driving with determination, interjected to defend Cole, "May, he's only been back for a month. The sinkhole was his doing, but the rest - the attacks on Faunus breeding camps, Jacques Schnee, Beacon incidents - that was an assassin called Reaper. Cole wasn't involved in those actions."
May, however, doubled down on her accusations. "I don't buy it, Ilia. Cole is Reaper. Only he's capable of shooting lightning from his hands. Those eyes are the same."
Cole, growing frustrated, shook his head. "I don't know what you're talking about. I just woke up a month ago with no memory of any of this. Lightning from my hands? Im not the only one capable of using dust" he lied hoping she'd buy it but she gave him a look and said 'I'll prove your reaper and your little heiress won't be your only one trying to get you locked up"
Ilia gripped the steering wheel and yelled "just shut up back there, this is not helping things, just drop it or change the damn subject"
The car pressed on through the city, the tension inside escalating as the trio grappled with the conflicting narratives surrounding Cole's mysterious past. The truth remained elusive, obscured by layers of deception and mystery"