Emmerich had a small pile of images by the end of it. Some were a rough idea of what these people might look like. A few had scars or other injuries in some futures but not others. Their clothes and hair changed as well. Sometimes they wore torn and patched clothes. Other times they were wearing COG armour. He even saw one where a number were in UIR armour.

He sighed and sank back into his chair feeling a headache rise and be fought back by the Stim from the injector. He needed to think about what he'd seen. These people were going to be important no matter the way things went. Some would only appear in some futures though. Was that because they were dead or just not becoming involved in that line of possibility?

Then there was the Hammer being used in multiple futures. Along with a future where people were being rounded up. He was the acting leader of the COG. The construction alone of a Hammer of Dawn should require his approval. The mass detainment was concerning as well. He searched trying to think of what could drive him to give such orders. He came up blank unless they were in a situation as bad as E-Day. He felt a shiver or if someone else was in charge giving the orders? But how would he leave the office? Death, retirement or coup. Not good options.

The first would be unusual. He would be required to have the best of medical care due to his position. An accident that outright killed him couldn't be ruled out but seemed far-fetched.

The second seemed unlikely at the moment and if he was able to manage things well people would keep him in office. But people could be fickle and if he was in charge during a mess he might have to step down to protect the office.

For the third he felt strangely worried. He knew the Old COG had its share of issues. The Journal provided that for definite. But an out right coup seemed a stretch. It would take a great deal of preparation and planning. There would be those who would resist. That meant that anyone planning a coup would need to be certain of pulling it off. He would have to look into forestalling or blocking such an attempt.

Emmerich looked at the small pile of pictures then picked out two. They were both women with white hair and blue eyes. He put the pictures next to the one from the report on Specialist Schnee. A close match but a little off one might just be older the other was a little different. Was she a relative of Specialist Schnee? How common was their appearance? Many people on Remnant seemed to have hair and eye colours that were unusual compared to Serans.

There was a knock at the door. Emmerich pushed the pictures into the draw with the Journal case and locked it.
'One moment.' He said.
He removed the Stim injector and passed it to the DeeBee. The machine moved away and placed the device back into its trauma kit. With everything neat and tidy Emmerich lifted the lockdown.

Evangelina entered looking at the medical DeeBee for a moment then to Emmerich.
'Getting a check-up. Last few weeks have been stressful. And I don't want to have the Onyx lockdown the medical area so I can get a light shined into my eye.' Emmerich said.
'Fair enough.' Evangelina said with a shrug. 'We've had an offer that's a bit hard to refuse.'
'What offer and how hard?' Emmerich asked leaning on his desk.
Evangelina tapped a tablet and sent a file to Emmerich's screen. He opened it as she spoke.
'The Schnee Dust Company has invited you to attend a charity event to raise money for us.' She said.
'Schnee? Is that a common name around here?' Emmerich asked. His mind was distracted by the faces he had tried to match.
'Not really. It's a family name. The business has gone for two generations and is about to reach its third.'
'That sounds rather young for a company. What sort of market share do they have?'
'About 90% of the total market.'
'Everything?'
'Yes. They have extraction, refining and sales all inside their organisation.'
'What else?'
'They work closely with the military, it seems they cooperate on a number of levels.'
'So they're state backed essentially?'
'Pretty much. They want you to attend the event personally.'
'Great. Let me call Myers first. Last thing I need is to go running to this event before he knows about it.'

A few minutes later Myers appeared in the office. He got a brief rundown from Evangelina.
'They want us to travel on one of their airships?' Myers sighed.
'Yes they've offered to divert it here to collect the first minister and an escort.' Evangelina said with a nod.
'We could have tried to take the Condor if Khan hadn't had to use it on that massive monster.' Emmerich added.
'I take it, we really need that cash then?' Myers asked.
'It's basically free income and we need to have some liquidity. No way to start trading for anything else if we're broke.' Evangelina said.
'There will be a catch somewhere.' Emmerich said rubbing his nose.

Myers thought for a few moments. 'Provided a few squads can come with you. And we take some extra precautions with your security there should be no issues. I'll stay here to keep things organised.' He said.
'I can take care of the civil stuff for a few days. You'll be there and back before the end of the week.' Evangelina said nodding to Emmerich.
'Great. I'll get my bags packed.' Emmerich said mockingly.

A few days later the blade-like prow of the airship that was collecting them glided over the lip of the valley. Emmerich recognized the design from his vision. Flanking it were two of the remaining Kestrels. They broke off and circled around the runway as the craft slowed and began to land. The long armatures that hung behind it folded out of the way.

Emmerich was waiting in a Packhorse a short way off. His new suit had been insisted on by Myers given his new rank. According to him it was state of the art protection worked into a comfortable suit. The idea that he could take rifle fire to the chest without his armour was strange but he wasn't planning to test it. There was also the ace up their sleeve that Myers had insisted on despite Ramos protesting about it.

He watched the airship settle onto the runway and the small group of COG vehicles moved out to meet it. Strangely there was only a small gust of wind kicked up by the craft when it had lowered itself. Some kind of anti gravity propulsion system perhaps?

The Onyx dismounted and formed up outside the airship. They formed up into neat rows with Onyx Guard at the front. Behind them two DeeBee squads that had been repainted and reprogrammed stood ready.

Emmerich disembarked and walked out to meet the captain of the airship. He was flanked by two soldiers in white armour with green trim. The Capitan gave a crisp salute on reflex. Emmerich acknowledged it, saluting the Captain. The Capitan seemed a bit surprised by the act but lowered his own swiftly.

'Welcome First Minster. I'm Capitan Skyler.' Skyler said looking at the four squads behind Emmerich.
'Are all these troops your escort?' Skyler asked looking at Emmerich.
'The Captain of the Onyx Guard prefers to be prepared.' Emmerich said trying to ease any concerns.
'Yes of course. I'll have a few Airmen guide you to the quarters we've assigned you. Would you like to see from the bridge as we lift?' Skyler asked.
'Thank you, that would be wonderful.' Emmerich said moving to follow Skyler.

The two of the Onyx moved with Emmerich the rest followed the Airmen to the quarters aboard the airship. The bridge was underneath the main body of the airship. Emmerich watched as the order was given and the craft simply floated into the air. There was a faint feeling of motion but it didn't quite match the speed they moved away at.

Emmerich had a light conversation with Skyler before excusing himself. He and his escort were shown to the quarters set into the upper part of the ship. Emmerich's room was in the middle with the Onyx and DeeBees set either side. Four DeeBees were on guard standing at the ready two facing each way. Emmerich sat down at the small desk in the room he'd been given and started to work on a rough speech for the event.

Ironwood waited a day or so before calling to check on the guest of honour.
'How are our guests?' Ironwood asked.
'Aside from the First Minister returning my salute. They've been quiet and keep to themselves mostly.' Skyler reported from the screen.
'He saluted back? I suppose he might just have assumed that was the greeting. But they've not been looking around? No questions or interest in the ship?'
Skyler shook his head. 'A few general questions but nothing too in depth. Mostly they've asked about the weather, food and what serving abroad is like. Nothing operational or restricted.'
'Perhaps they consider such things impolite. Regardless, we'll give them a warm welcome. Be sure to tell me how this First Minister reacts when he sees Atlas proper. I imagine it will be quite the show.'
'Of course General.'

It was only a day more before they reached Solitas. Emmerich was invited onto the bridge again as they came into range of the city. He kept his face relaxed for the most part but allowed a little shock to show. It was just like his vision of a floating city. A few small details were different but nothing a few years wouldn't explain.

Then he saw what the city was hovering over and didn't manage to keep the look from his face.
'Is something the matter?' Capitan Skyler asked.
'Is that lower area some sort of industrial district?' Emmerich asked.
'Ah no. That is Mantle. The old city.' Skyler said with a hint of distaste.
'Old city?'
'Yes when Atlas was first built this Kingdom bore the name Mantle. It was named after the first settlers sheltered in from the storms and cold in the caves bellow.'
'But the name of your Kingdom changed to Atlas after the city was built?
'Yes. The Kingdom in the clouds. It was such an achievement and so much was moved to the new city that the change seemed obvious.'
'I see.' Emmerich said. He looked down at the worn city below the glittering towers. The way Capitan Skyler had spoken was concerning. Why would the old city be thought of like some lesser place? The COG revered its heritage and those who came before them. Was Atlas too focused on the future to respect its past?

The Airship glided to a landing pad. They disembarked to a group of soldiers lined up. Some were armoured with blue and red trims. Others were wearing some kind of long coats with caps and had a mixture of weapons. Robots in white armour were mixed in with their human counterparts.

The Onyx marched out in formation and Emmerich followed them. They were greeted by a man that towered quite literally over Emmerich.
'General Ironwood. I'm honoured to welcome you to Atlas First Minister.' Ironwood said giving a salute.
Once more Emmerich acknowledged Ironwood with a salute as well.
'I'm happy to be received. Do you always have this many troops out for visitors?' Emmerich asked looking at the formations of troops.
'No but it's not often we receive guests like yourself. This way please .' Ironwood said.

He led them over to a set of black staff cars that hovered slightly above the ground. Instead of wheels they had purple glowing blocks with metal bands over them. Emmerich boarded a car with Ironwood and two Onyx. The other Onyx and DeeBees were led into other cars. They set out gliding over the ground and into the city.

There were a few moments of quiet before Ironwood broke the silence.
'I'm unsure if it's fine to ask. But are you saluting for a reason or just responding in kind?' Ironwood asked.
Emmerich looked over at the General. 'I'm the Commander-in-chief of all COG military forces. I assumed that any salute was to be acknowledged so the one giving it could break their salute.' Emmerich said.
'I see. I'm the overall commander of the Atlesian military. Though the Council does have their own authority. They're not directly involved in military matters.' Iron wood explained.
'Ah, that explains the confusion. I apologise if I've caused any trouble.' Emmerich said with a nod.
'No problems at all. It's… interesting to have someone who is a civilian but still shows such respect to the armed forces.' Ironwood said with a note of pride.

Emmerich nodded and watched the city go by. It was what one might expect from a work of art. Tall towers of glass and steel. Small parks worked throughout. The people looked happy and were wearing a mix of styles. Mostly light clothing despite the city being above the tundra. But some small part of him still rested on the city beneath this one. Why so much excess up here when so much still needed to be done down there?

A few minutes later they drew up at a large building. The door was opened by a waiting attendant. Who quickly found himself surrounded by Onyx Guard wondering who he was and why he was near the First Minister.

Emmerich stepped out as they dispersed and the attendant gave a slight bow. There was a red carpet leading up to the entrance. Either side was press with cameras shouting questions. It seems that some things don't change even in another world. Emmerich gave the usual drill. Smile, polite nod and no comment thank you. The Onyx moved around mixing with a few people in some sort of police uniform. They fell into the space between them adding to the buffer against the members of the press. A small scuffle broke out as a new group pushed towards the barriers.

They weren't dressed like the people from the city. They were wearing insulated jackets and thick trousers. Some were carrying signs and shouting about money for Mantle. It was strange to see these people surrounded by the wealth around them. A few looked like they could do with some better food.

'Who are they?' Emmerich asked Ironwood.
'Some protesters from Mantle from the look of them. Typical. They hear about a charity event and try to crash it for attention.' Ironwood said dismissively.
A group of police moved into the crowd and started to disperse or arrest them. Emmerich watched as the press ignored the action behind them like it was just a regular event. That didn't bode well.

At the doors a few guards in padded vests were waiting cradling carbines. One stepped forward.
'I'm going to have to ask your security detail to remain outside. Only SDC security and Atlesian
Military are allowed to be armed on the premises.' He said.
'I'm sure an exception can be made for the First Minister. He is after all the guest of honour.' Ironwood said looking down at the man.
Before they could argue further Emmerich stepped in. 'If I may. Would two of my staff be fine if they left their rifles outside?' He asked.
The guard thought for a moment then made a quick call before turning back to them. 'That will be fine.'
Emmerich nodded to the Onyx. Two of the Onyx passed their lancers to the others before following him inside. They had kept their Subs without mentioning it.

If the city looked like an art piece this was a throwback to the Age of Silence. There was glass and crystal everywhere. Staff carrying trays of food and drink wandered the large room. Guests stood in small groups talking between themselves.

'Ah the man of the hour.' A voice called.
Emmerich looked to see a man walking over. If he was looking for the head of the Schnee company he guessed he had found it. White hair, both on top and for his moustache, and blue eyes.
'Jacques Schnee, CEO of the Schnee Dust Company. Honoured to have you join us First Minister.' Jacques said holding out a hand.
Emmerich took it and shook his hand lightly. 'Thank you for the invitation. I'm grateful for the kindness you've all shown towards the people of the COG, UIR and Outsiders.' He said.
That got an odd look from both Ironwood and Jacques. But they both recovered and moved towards light conversation. Emmerich was careful not to drink anything that was alcoholic and ate lightly. He couldn't afford to get drunk and having the Onyx sweep a bathroom was something he wanted to avoid.

Jacques kept trying to steer the conversation towards the COG opening its borders. Emmerich was polite but firm that such choices would be made once their situation was stable. Emmerich noted that Winter had shown her skills and helped dealing with the Grimm. Ironwood seemed rather happy about that statement. Jacques however seemed rather upset at the idea of his daughter being praised for her service. Another strange thing. Why be upset with your child serving in the armed forces?

Before they could discuss further there was a call for the guests to enter the concert hall. Apparently Jacques' second daughter Weiss would be singing at the event. Emmerich was invited to join Jacques in a private booth. Ironwood left to attend another matter.

They were seated and the curtain went up. Emmerich squinted for a moment as the young woman on stage stepped forward. She had the expected white hair and blue eyes. Her face was nearly a match for the second woman he'd seen before. But no scar. Was that because she hadn't gotten it yet or had something changed and she wouldn't get one now?

He leaned back into his chair as she sang. She was quite good in his opinion. The song was rather sombre but still pleasant to listen to. Jacques attempted to strike up conversation even though his own daughter was singing. Emmerich pretended not to notice him. It was rather easy given Emmerich was trying to figure out how the future would unfold.

This young woman was the heiress to a massive fortune and a global company. How would she become a trained fighter that would be involved in the battles to come? If this was Sera then she would do service in the armed forces like the Founding Families given the Schnees past.

Baird, Fenix, Lytton, Prescott, Stroud and others. Each had once been a noble houses who gave up their titles when the COG was created. They had demonstrated their loyalty through generations of service. But that didn't seem like what Jacques wanted. He seemed to bristle at the idea of Winter serving.

Winter was Weiss's older sister. That would mean that Winter had been the heir before, was Weiss the spare? If so then Emmerich couldn't see Jacques letting her take any action beyond what he wanted. The song finished and Emmerich clapped with the audience. Jacques took a moment before joining in. Not a good sign in Emmerich's opinion.

They left the booth and headed back to the main hall. There were more drinks and snacks on offer. Once more Jacques turned to business and Emmerich polity declined to join in. After a few moments Weiss appeared at her fathers side.
'Ah First Minister. This is my daughter Weiss. I'm sure you can agree she's a wonderful girl.' Jacques said.
Weiss gave a slight curtsy at his words. Emmerich wondered why Jacques had called his daughter a girl given her age. Was he putting her down at a party of all things?
'She is clearly a talented young woman. Thank you for that song. It was a rare delight.' Emmerich said to Weiss.
Weiss nodded at his words with a slight look of pride.
'Thank you I'm happy to help those I can.' Weiss said.
Jacques clearly didn't like being left out and moved to stand between the two. 'Perhaps we could have a few words in private?' He asked Emmerich.

Emmerich was about to decline when he noticed Ironwood hovering at a table. The man was looking at them in the reflection of his glass. Perhaps he wanted a private word of his own. But not with Emmerich they could talk in the car nor Jacques since he likely could just ask for a meeting. Weiss then.

That worked to Emmerich's advantage. No doubt Ironwood wanted to offer Weiss an opportunity. Perhaps he hoped that the younger sister would take after the older one. Emmerich nodded to Jacques.
'Let's have a quiet word.' Emmerich said.
'Excellent right this way. I have a private room ready.' Jacques said leading them away.
Emmerich glanced over his shoulder as they left the room. Ironwood walked over to Weiss the moment Jacques was out of sight.

The room was clearly made for business meetings. There were two couches and a small table inside. The Onyx swept the room and took up positions outside the door. Jacques sent off a young waitress to get some drinks. Jacques asked for wine and Emmerich asked for water.

'Now then First Minister. I hope we can come to a mutually beneficial agreement.' Jacques said leaning back into his seat.
'I can't promise anything before we have things sorted. You must understand the last thing we want is any of your staff being at risk.' Emmerich said.
Jacques looked a little confused for a moment. 'Of course we need to be safe and I can assure you we will take all necessary measures. But it's important that we get to work as soon as possible.' He said once he recovered.
'What sort of work will you need to do to these mines anyway? I understand they've not been in use for some time.'
'Work? Well once we have the sites secured and clear of Grimm we can start bringing in the miners right away.'
Emmerich cocked his head. 'Right away? You can get the miners and their equipment sorted that quickly? What about fitting the seals? I don't recall seeing any in the images I've seen.'
'Seals? I don't quite understand.'
'All COG mines operate with full seals to prevent any dust or debris leaking out. Mining can be hazardous so all personnel must have proper PPE before entering the mine.'
'Well you see... the SDC... has a number of years working with Dust. We're well aware of the dangers that can be posed and I can assure you we meet all industry standards.' Jacques said. His tone wavered at the start. Then seemed to fall flat as he spoke like he was repeating a phrase.
'If your operations are within COG borders you will need to meet COG standards.' Emmerich said firmly. He was starting to see some issues with letting the SDC access the mines. How much care were their staff being given?

There was a knock at the door and the Onyx opened it. A waitress entered with two glasses and a bottle of wine on a cart. That was strange. Emmerich had been clear he wasn't drinking. He looked at the waitress for a moment then it clicked. She wasn't the same one that had left a few minutes ago.

Emmerich was about to signal for the Onyx when the imposter smashed the wine bottle and turned to face them. She charged towards them with the broken bottle in one hand. As she did she shouted some sort of battle cry.

'FOR THE WHITE FANG!'