Jacques Schnee sighed contently. Things were now progressing well on a number of fronts. The SDC was on track for the latest round of investment. Provided they reached their target for this quarter. The mines lost on Solitas might be reassessed.
There was enough dust in the near by #2 mine to power Atlas alone for a number of years. But it had been forced to close years ago. Some stupid menial had caused an explosion that led to some injuries and deaths. Nothing that wasn't a risk given the work. But the panic and other emotions had drawn the Grimm. Forcing the SDC to close the mine.
They hadn't even managed to pull out that much of the expensive equipment. The huntsmen they'd hired to cover the evacuation had been tied up protecting the fools who'd caused the disaster. A whole mine and its equipment was lying out there in the snow just waiting to be brought back to life.
Jacques allowed himself a moment of joyous daydreaming. Imagining the lien that mine would bring. He was interrupted by a knock at the door.
'Come in,' He called out.
The door to his study opened and one of his assistants, he could never remember their names, quickly entered with a clipboard in hand.
'Sir, I have some news I thought you would need to be alerted to,' The assistant said timidly.
'Well you've already interrupted me. This better be good or you'll be at the far end of the continent. Now what is it,' Jacques snapped. He hated people who weren't worth his time.
'We've had a number of staff from our Solitas operations leave us recently. Far more than would be considered normal,' The assistant said.
'So some employees aren't feeling grateful for our much valued employment. We've always had the odd wave of departures but they come back eventually,' Jacques said with a detached tone. Really did people think they could turn their backs on the SDC? They were the world's largest dust company.
'They're not just leaving the company sir. Exit interviews and our workplace monitors say they're emigrating.'
Those words stopped Jacques' thoughts dead.
'They're what!?' He shouted, slamming his fists into his desk.
The assistant cowered back from him.
'Th… They… They're emigrating sir. Leaving the continent entirely,' The assistant mumbled from behind the clipboard.
Jacques realized he'd let his temper show and took a breath to collect himself. He was a powerful man, the head of the SDC and the Schnee family. Such an outburst was not good form and risked his reputation.
'Apologies,' He said, injecting a tone of ease into his voice, 'I've been running myself a bit thin the last few days.'
The assistant remained back but lowered the clipboard, slightly.
'How are they leaving? It was my understanding that the costs of relocating were a... barrier to any large migration,' Jacques said leaning back into his chair.
The assistant took a breath before saying, 'Their relocation is being paid for by their new employer.'
Jacques felt a familiar mix of anger and amusement. On one hand someone dared to challenge the SDC. On the other it was another chance to demonstrate their efficiency compared to any competitor.
'Who is it this time? Some group from Mistral getting big for their boots?' Jacques asked, voice full of mirth.
'No sir. It's DBI,' The assistant replied.
'DBI? I can't recall seeing them on our last market report,' Jacques remarked, the name did sound familar though.
'DBI is Damon Baird Industries. They're a Seran company. They weren't on our last report since they didn't exist until a few months ago.'
'Serans,' Jacques muttered under his breath. Why did those people cause so many problems? There had been an order to things. But their arrival was upsetting his carefully arranged plans.
'Sir?' The assistant asked.
'Nothing, just thinking out loud. So this DBI what sort of plan do we have to deal with them?' Jacques asked.
'Well… um… There have been some issues. With our usual solutions,' The assistant said with a cough.
'Issues?' Jacques said darkly.
'We can't match much of what they are offering. At least not without at least a two figure drop in revenue this quarter alone.'
'What how? We just need to match or exceed them till they go under,' Jacques snapped.
'They're offering to cover the costs of relocation for individuals and their imitate family. Those costs alone will start to show on our report for the quarter.'
'What else?' Jacques snarled.
'They are providing full equipment for all their staff at no cost. Not just tools but some kind of work suit that is attracting significant interest by itself. Our intertal security recordings show our staff discussing them during all hours,' The assistant reported.
'What could be so impressive about a suit?'
'It is reportedly quite a bit of equipment. Each of their workers receives one adjusted to fit them.'
'That is not possible. The cost of custom fitting equipment must be exuberant. Why would they do that?'
'The few agents we still have reporting back say is a legal requirement for the work.'
'Who in their right mind would make such a thing a legal requirement? It goes against all economics to make it harder to employ people.'
'The COG government it seems. They require quite stringent standards. To the point we're unable to consider opening operations without drastic changes.'
'What is wrong with these people? They're destroying our business and for what? To spare a few fools a bit of a cough.'
Foist Serac focused to stifle the cough. It was a battle against his own body but he didn't want to upset his son or his grandson. These calls were one of his rare happy moments.
'See grandpa. They gave me an award for helping the new kids get used to the school,' Erwin said. He was holding up a card with some text on it. Foist couldn't make it out because the resolution was bad but he trusted his grandson.
'That's wonderful to hear. I'm so proud of you for stepping up Erwin,' Adolpha said with a warm smile.
'Thank you grandpa. Oh did dad tell you yet?' Erwin asked with a look of excitement on his face.
'Tell me what?' Foist asked, confused for a moment. He was old but his memory wasn't that bad, was it?
'Erwin,' Zane said, pressing his hand onto his son's shoulder.
'Wha- Oh um. I have to go do my homework. Love you grandpa,' Erwin said, giving a wave.
'Love you too Erwin. You be good now,' Foist said, returning the wave.
Erwin left the camera view leaving Foist and Zane facing each other.
'So. What did you need him to leave for?' Foist asked, feeling the weight of his year's return.
'It's about my job-' Zane started.
'Oh please don't tell me they're selling to Schnee. You know how they work? You can't s-' Foist started a crushing cough taking over for a moment.
'No no it's not that dad please just let me explain,' Zane said urgently.
After a moment Foist's breath returned to a wheeze, the curse of a life below ground.
'So what is it now?' Foist asked between heavy breaths.
'Have you heard about the recruitment drive DBI is running?' Zane asked.
'Of course I have. Every week it seems another recruiter comes around offering the impossible.'
'What do you mean dad?'
'They're offering wages that I wouldn't trust if they had it on the table in front of me. There's this whole story about some futuristic suit straight out of those comic books Erwin used to read. And all this other stuff that must just be a lure for them to rip off working folk.'
Zane shook his head, 'It's not impossible dad. I'm earning those wages and those suits are just like the rumors said if not better. For the horned gods sake it had space for my tail when I collected it. No need to find some scraps and sew something together.'
Foist sighed deeply, 'Son you know better than to play with your old man's heart. So what wonder did you want to talk to me about?'
Zane shuffled for a moment then took a breath before speaking.
'Did you hear about the relocation coverage they've offered?'
'I have. But that's for people who are signing up now right?' Foist asked, tilting his head.
'It is. But I spoke with my boss. They said that given I've been doing so well and never got the chance to use that benefit when I joined. They're going to speak to upper management. It's not a promise but they think we might be able to get your fare covered so you can come down here.'
There were a few seconds of quiet whilst Foist blinked. The words he understood but it just didn't seem possible. He'd spent his life working to get a better future for the people he cared about. It had cost him a great deal. He'd resigned himself to his twilight years, yet now was there a chance?
'-ad? Dad, are you alright?' Zane asked, sounding worried.
'Oh yes sorry. I just… I just don't know what to say.' Foist said refocusing on his son.
'I know it's a bit much. But it's not a sure thing yet. I just didn't want to tell you to pack up suddenly.'
'Are you sure about this? Last time you said you were worried? Have things calmed down?'
'Not quite. But... I'd feel a lot better having you closer to us. The COG has dealt with anything before it gets out of hand. I can't say they're better than Atlas but they're not worse.'
Foist laughed slightly at those words.
'Well we learned to live with them didn't we? Okay then I'll get a few things squared away. Let me know if the news changes,' He said his chest feeling lighter than it had in years.
'I will dad. And don't worry. Things here are far better than Mantle. I'd be surprised if you don't see more familiar faces here when you arrive,' Zane replied.
Cinder was not happy. Her mood rarely reached a point most people would describe as happy. But this was a foul state even for her. Her masters list was turning into a list of the dead more than anything else.
More than seven names down and each time the story followed a similar trend. Got caught by some huntsmen, picked a fight they lost and other stupid ways to die. She knew that they were seeking those who were of weak morals, it was a shame they tended to be soft in the brain as well.
She was crossing through one of the more wealthy areas of a city. She'd arrived by boat and needed to reach the outer walls before sundown. A Seer would be waiting with lien and other supplies for her to use. Their original owners wouldn't be needing them any more.
Then she saw her. A girl, she was lean but not by choice going by her appearance, with a familiar look. One Cinder could still recall seeing in the mirror. Desperation, hunger and anger rolled into one. She had green hair, red eyes. Her clothing was mostly okay but worn in places that made it clear she didn't have anything else. On her waist was a belt holding two revolvers that would have been out of place if this city didn't have its share of huntsmen coming and going.
Cinder didn't stop walking, instead she turned slightly to follow after the girl. Keeping far enough back not to be seen but close enough she could watch the girl. What was it that had caught her eye, Cinder wondered?
The urchin slipped into a jewelers shop, far too rich a location for one of her standing. Cinder turned into the adjacent ally and moved up to one of the windows. Peering inside she could see the owner sitting behind the counter examining a ring. He looked up as the girl walked towards the counter.
But rather than shout and order her to leave he smiled at the sight of her. His lips moved as he spoke but he was smiling. Was this girl some kind of agent of his? A pickpocket returning to her senior in some small-time band of thieves?
The man rose and walked up to the girl gesturing to the shop. Was he advertising his wears to a girl who seemed to live meal to meal? Perhaps it was some kind of game he played? Taunting those less fortunate to bolster his ego.
But why would the girl be here for that? Would he pay her? Or was she planning something? Cinder recalled the look in her eyes, no this girl was out hunting she was not the lesser party in this moment.
The jeweler vanished into the back of the shop for a moment. The girl seemed to collapse for a moment steadying herself against a display. She had a semblance of some kind. One able to trick the owner into thinking she was a customer no doubt.
After a moment the jeweler returned with a ring set on a velvet pillow. No doubt it was the most expensive one he had. The girl must have made herself seem very wealthy for him to offer something like that.
There were a few moments of conversation, the girl becoming more strained as they spoke. Then the jeweler held out his hand to the urchin. She offered her own and he slipped the ring onto her finger.
With a few more words exchanged the girl pretended to pay. She turned to leave and was just about out of the door when the jeweler's face changed. His smile dropped as he blinked his eyes. He glanced down at the till and his mouth changed into a snarl.
'-ef! Help! police!' He shouted.
Cinder heard the words as the door burst open and the girl ran out. She was fast and her route must have been planned. The police who responded passed her right by without a second glance but with more officers the girl visibly strained more.
Cinder followed at a respectful distance. Her quarry made it to a much less wealthy district. No doubt to hide or sell her prize. The buildings were shabby and litter lined the gutter. This was the kind of place the girl would have fit in.
Finally the girl turned into an alley and dropped to one knee panting hard. So this was the end of her escape? A random alley with no cover to speak of. The girl was relying too much on not being followed. Cinder could still hear the sirens as the police searched in vain for the girl before her.
With one final check that no-one else was watching Cinder strode into the alley. At the sound of her heels clicking on the floor the girl's head snapped around.
'How did you do that?' Cinder asked with a smirk.
Rather than reply the girl reached for her revolvers.
'Don't,' Cinder said firmly before tilting her head towards the sirens, 'Unless, of course, you want them to hear you.'
The girl hesitated for a moment before lowering her hands, but still kept them ready to draw.
'What do you want?' The urchin snapped.
'I've already told you. And I don't like repeating myself,' Cinder said as she strode towards the girl.
'I didn't do anything! Just leave me alone!' The girl shouted.
'I know my fair share of liars and thieves. Stealing is an art of patience, coordination, and in a pinch, sleight of hand. But you didn't steal the ring in your pocket,' At Cinder's words the girl checked her pocket,' You took it right before the jeweler's eyes. And he smiled.'
'Who are you?' The girl asked finally.
'You can call me Cinder. And if you follow me, and you'll never be hungry again,' Cinder said, turning to leave.
'What kind of game is this?' The girl called after her.
'Stay here and you can play with the police. It makes little difference to me,' Cinder replied as she strode away.
After a few moments the girl muttered something and ran after her. Cinder knew she would. After all, thieves were opportunists at heart.
They walked to the outer wall and off into the wilds. No words were exchanged between them. The girl did not trust Cinder. And Cinder didn't plan on learning her name until she proved herself. An opportunity would arise shortly Cinder was certain.
The two of them left the path and walked to an old cottage. Its roof had caved in at some point and a few Nevermore few out at their approach. The avian Grimm screeched but fell silent at the wave of Cinders hand.
'We're here to collect some supplies. But first we'll need to kill the huntsmen following us,' Cinder said calmly.
'Wait what? You didn't say anything about huntsmen!' The girl cried looking around fearfully.
'No I didn't. But you committed a robbery in broad daylight using a semblance. That means they've put a few on our tail. If the police follow the normal process. They'll be checking your description against anyone who left recently.'
'He couldn't see my face. How could they know to follow us,' The girl said, looking around at the trees.
'A general description was more than enough to find out when you left and where you were heading,' A voice called out.
A woman walked out of the treeline. She had black hair with gray eyes. On her back was a broadsword.
'So just the one of you? I was expecting at least two,' Cinder remarked with disinterest.
'I'm more than enough for the likes of you. Now we can do this the easy way or the hard way. So what will it be?' The huntress asked, looking between them.
The girl looked from Cinder to the huntress a few times. Then licked her lips and drew her revolvers with shaking hands.
'Hard way it is then,' The huntress said with a sigh.
For a moment neither of them moved. Then the swords-woman dashed forward in the blink of an eye. She swung out with the flat of her blade, in the wrong direction. Cinder watched as the girl fired point blank into her opponents back, the woman's aura flaring with the impacts.
Interesting, she'd already thought of a faint with so little time. But how would she fight now her opponent was wise to her tricks.
The huntress retaliated by swinging her blade around again at the girls last position, but hit only air. She cried out as the girl darted past slashing at her legs. Her aura was holding but each blow chipped away at the remainder.
'I didn't want to hurt you but if this is how you want it,' The woman spat.
She raised her sword again, its edge flickering with light. Cinder instinctively ducked. The huntress swung her sword in a circle around her. A wave of energy spiraled outwards. The girl ran desperately to keep ahead of the attack whilst closing the distance.
Weaving a path between the energy waves she fired at the huntress. She'd made a mistake now though. Firing quickly and in near panic. The rounds did strike home but the girl was also giving away her position with each attack.
The huntress changed her attack stopping for a moment then making a set of quick slashes. The energy blades radiating outwards and striking the girl. There was a flash of green as the girl's aura broke and she fell to the ground. Cinder tilted her head thinking for a moment.
'Okay tall, dark and silent. You can surrender or I can lay you out like your friend over there,' The huntress said pointing her blade at Cinder.
'No need. I surrender,' Cinder said, raising her hands.
The huntress cocked her head but reached for a set of cuffs on her belt. As she did so a shadow fell over her.
She spun around to see a Grimm she'd never seen before. It was like a red jellyfish floating in the air. Bone-like growths in the shape of plates or spikes sprouted from its crown full of red glowing smoke. A set of red tendrils drifted below it each tipped with a blade like bone.
Before she could react one the tendrils shot outwards coiling around her blade hand. Her other hand snapped up to try and pull the offending limb away but to no avail. A second tendril caught her other hand and pulled it away.
The Seer lifted her into the air and began to squeeze. The huntress's aura lit under its grip for a moment then broke. There was the sound of breaking bones and then screaming. The girl watched with horror as the Grimm tormented the huntress. Cinder remained distant, she'd seen this kind of thing before. What was one more Seer with a flare for self indulgence?
After a few moments the Seer either grew bored or remembered it was not alone. It raised one of its larger tentacles and drove the bladed tip into the huntress's head with a dull wet sound. The woman went limp instantly and the Grimm dropped the now dead body to the ground.
The Grimm turned to the girl, as much as it could given its lack of a front. Raising its limbs once more it began to move towards her. Could reach out Cinder interposed herself between them holding up her hand. The Grimm stopped and lowered its limbs
'She is under my protection for now. I wish to speak to the master,' Cinder said lowering her hand.
The Grimm quivered in the air for a moment then lowered itself to the ground letting out a sound that was both a growl and a hiss. Cinder strode up to the creature and gazed into its head. The bone plates moved downwards to expose its glowing heart.
'Don't try to run. You won't make the tree line,' Cinder said looking over to the girl.
'This is impossible,' The girl murmured as she watched Cinder turn to the Seer.
After a few moments a face appeared in the swirling smoke. It was a woman deathly pale with red eyes surrounded by black sclerae. Her hair was white as her skin.
'Cinder, you have something to report?' The woman asked.
'Yes Master. I must report that it's taking longer than planned to find the allies you listed. Many are already dead,' Cinder said bowing.
'That is disappointing but not unexpected. Still I'm not sure why you would wish to report that. So what is it you wish to ask?'
'I wish to take on an apprentice,' Cinder said, looking over to the girl and signaling her to come close.
The girl remained frozen for a moment. The Seer moved closer, by its own volition or Salem's command. She made the smart move to go rigid and not try to run. The Seer floated around her letting Salem examine the girl.
'And what is your name?' Salem asked finally.
'Em..,' The girl stated before swallowing dryly, 'Emerald Sustrai.'
'Hmm. I have to say you could have picked better or worse,' Salem proclaimed before the Seer floated back to Cinder.
'Then I have your blessing?' Cinder asked.
'Yes. I think it would do you good to teach someone else. I trust you'll be through?' Salem replied.
'Of course Master. I'll raise her as though she was my own,' Cinder said with a bow.
'Good. See that you do. I expect greatness from you Cinder. Do not disappoint me,' Salem said before breaking the link.
The Seer floated away into the cottage. Cinder turned to look at Emerald only to see the girl had collapsed. They would have to work on that.