RWBY Remastered: Echoes of Darkness

by DFO627

The world of Remnant is quite a treacherous place… With Grimm around every corner, and villains whom wish harm upon the beautiful realm, this will surely be a challenge for RWBY, and their friends. And with a new villain aiding Salem; the demon Nightmaratack, and with the rise of "Dark Grimm", they'll need all the help they can get… Even help from some not of their world.

16. Chapter 15

The next day rolls by at Atlas Academy, Team RWBY is sound asleep. Until...

"SALUTATIONS!" Penny shouts out, spooking everyone. "Good morning Team RWBY!"

Yang yawns out. "Penny? Ugh… What time is it?"

"Time to be Huntresses, of course." She salutes them. While the three members were unenthused, their leader however is more than excited for her dream job.

And so life continues in Atlas and Mantle. With Team RWBY and JNPR living their new lives as Atlas Huntsmen. Ruby working on the Sabyr Grimm. Although normally she'd fight it with her first choice Weiss, she is having assistance with Pyrrha. Blake and Yang teaming with Marrow on the mines with the leftover Grimm, with him questioning how they are overly dependent on each other, until both Yang and Blake prove themselves in front of him. Ren and Nora handles other Sabyr's around the city borders. While Jaune handles escorting children on the streets, with the mothers being very impressed by his kindness and even offering their casseroles for him. But with all of these missions in mind, the main one is still Amity Tower.

Ironwood would also plan to help Oscar personally, since Ozpin seems to have been quiet lately. Despite the tensions of the Grimm around, Ironwood would try to stay optimistic and would at the very least help Oscar be a tough Huntsmen of his own right. And he would also introduce this to the others if they like. A training room for Huntsmen to spar. But while all of this is going on, Weiss follows Irad for his said missions.

Irad and Weiss would be sifting through some files that Irad collected and gathered, researching about Arthur Watts.

"To defeat your enemy, you must know your enemy" Irad had told Weiss before they got to where they were. Irad would be researching Watt's history, and would run across 'The Paladin Incident', and Irad would ask, "I don't seem to recall… But what is the "Paladin Incident?" Irad asked Weiss.

She hums in thought. "I don't recall much. But I do remember people making a big deal over his supposed death. I didn't really know him personally. He seemed more focused on business with my father. But that was the story. The man doesn't seem that attached to anyone but his work."

He sighs, "I suppose it's safe to say... Watts had survived that incident, and had joined Salem's ranks as part of her 'Inner Circle'. In the timeline I've spoken of, that's why I said his name. Now- I didn't know if this was a timeline where he really did die... But from the looks of things, it seems evident that he lives, just as the timeline I spoke of... I'll need to bring up the old timeline's file to refresh myself on that note... He did well to hide under my radar for so long too… If this timeline is just right, he should be in close cahoots with Jacques, and should be proceeding as he plans... From there, is all I can really say. With me in the mix, perhaps he'll take more bold measures, as I'm sure he'd done his homework. He's a fool, but not stupid."

"Wait a minute, what do you mean 'in cahoots' with my father?" Weiss asked, still not used to the idea of him actually associated with anyone working for Salem. He's pretty despicable, but to that extent is something even she couldn't fathom.

"Eventually he may reveal himself to Jacques, and your father might accept an offer to aid the company and win the election for Jacques, with their unified distaste of Ironwood, due to the unpredictability of this timeline, I'm not too sure... But I'll be getting to your father before then, or so I hope. I was informed to come to dinner tonight, and I believe your father tried to reach out for you, if I'm not mistaken..." Weiss would perk up and check her watch, seeing she missed a message from her father, and she would sigh. She clenched her fist, of course her father would stoop so low, to even think…

"Out of all the…" She tries to restrain her anger.

Irad puts his hands up as a calming gesture, "Don't worry, I have a plan... For now, we need to prepare for the next few moves… Especially the 'offer'"

She nods. "Okay. I trust you" She nods.

He smiles, "In the end... The Lord always prevails. Jacques will get what's coming to him..." Irad states, as he closes the file he was reading, tapping his cane on the ground, "Well then... I think it's best we head on out. We've been researching things for hours, I think it's time we stretch our legs and prepare for that meeting... How's that sound?"

"That sounds lovely." She would sway her ponytail as she followed once again.

Eventually, in the evening, the duo arrived at the Schnee manor via a Schnee limo Irad was told to meet at. Irad and Weiss both looked to the manor,

"Hm… When I look at this manor, it looks more like a prison…" Irad says, and Weiss would sigh,

"I suppose in a way, it is…" Weiss replied.

Irad would grab her hand, "Do not worry, my little snowflake… I won't let anything happen. I swear." He says, smiling. She smiled back, feeling slightly reassured. Had she come alone, she would have been so afraid… But with him, she felt stronger, and felt like she could face whatever is to come. They enter the manor, and Irad would look around. He saw many pictures hung across the walls, as a butler was guiding them to the dining room. One that stood out was the Schnee family portrait… Weiss just looks off blankly, occasionally checking to ensure Irad was hoding her hand. They enter the dining room, and saw that Winter was sitting in her seat already. Weiss and Irad would join her, and sit together across from Winter,

"Hello Winter." Weiss greeted Winter, with a smile.

"Weiss. I couldn't find you anywhere. I'm assuming you were busy with your..." She then sees Irad. "... Friend." She isn't sure how to gauge him at this moment. He did help her little sister, but she barely knew him personally. She continues to act politely if only because it's the way she talks with anyone.

He chuckles, "Well, we have been gathering much important information on what we are dealing with..." He looks around the room, nodding, before saying, "If you two need a moment to catch up or whatnot, feel free. It will be some time before we begin, I'm assuming." He says, smiling warmly.

Winter rises, "I suppose. I expect you've greatly improved last time we spoke, sister?"

Weiss would smile. "Oh, I have. In fact, remember back at Beacon when we talked?"

"I'd rather forget that day." Recalling her embarrassment on that day. But then remembered what they were doing. "Wait, you tried to master Glyphs, if I'm not mistaken."

"Yes! I've done so since then!" Weiss said with a hint of excitement.

Irad raises a hand, "If- I may add, I've also been aiding her in her training from time to time, and I suppose, you could say, her and I are an unbeatable duo. I am able to further enhance her Glyphs to make her faster, and create more powerful attacks... Using my magic, of course. She's come up with lots of clever tricks with my assistance."

She would turn her head, in her thoughts until she speaks up. "She is fortunate to have a dedicated partner. I have trained her to also stand on her own. After all, a team is only as good as the sum of its parts."

Irad would nod, "Wise words. She is still very strong on her own. In our sparring sessions, she has proven herself quite resilient and strong, even sometimes nearly getting the best of me..." He says with a grin. "In all, I'm very impressed with her progress. Comparing my fight with Cinder to my sessions with Weiss, at this point Weiss would be the more challenging opponent."

"Is that so?" Winter raised her brow in interest. "Perhaps tomorrow you can show me yourself sometime, Weiss?" This has her excited. Just then, Jacques enters the room as now there's an awkward silence.

"Ah, Mr. Schnee…" Irad finally said as the father and head of Schnee Co. sat, "It is a pleasure being here, your home is quite… Marvelous." He says in a bright tone, but Weiss knew Irad, and could tell he was writhing with disgust on the inside. Jacques however, didn't pick up on Irad's disgust, and would politely greet Irad back,

"Yes well..." He adjusts his tie. "Let's get down to business." As he walks past Winter, not acknowledging her existence, while she would turn her head away as she leaves to do other things. Weiss feels the intense tension going on.

Irad would clear his throat, proceeding to slide a file to Jacques. "Go ahead and give that a read, Mr. Schnee." Irad says, sitting back in his seat in a formal manner, crossing his legs. Jacques would open it, and begin to read, and his eyes would widen the more he read… It was a deed to sign over the company. "Mr. Schnee, I am aware of the many shady dealings of the Schnee Dust Company, and of the many crimes you've committed, along with your dealings with Arthur Watts..." He said before he began to chuckle, as Winter, whom stopped and turned from hearing this revelation, and Weiss stared at Irad with shocked expressions, as Irad continued, "You see, I'm a man who likes to learn about the world around him... And I have eyes and ears in many places, and it's quite easy to... Oh I dunno... Ask questions, snoop around... More importantly, find camera feeds..." Jacques would drop the file, as he looked at Irad, and was about to say something, before Irad stopped him, "I am willing to stand aside and not get in your way, and not pursue charges and ruin you, if you accept my deal... And let me say, this is a deal I KNOW you won't refuse." Irad states, "I am wanting you to give me information about Arthur Watts, and to buy your family, and the Schnee Dust Company off of you... My offer is 50 trillion." At this, would make everyone's jaw drop in the room. "If you accept, you will cut all ties and communication with your family, you will relocate yourself in a new homestead, you will give ownership of the Schnee Dust company over to me, and I will keep my mouth shut... And you can have 50. Trillion. Smackaroos, making you the richest man alive… Could even use it to make a NEW company." Irad states,then motions the folder, "All you have to do... Is sign right there on the line." Irad said.

He would be flabbergasted by everything. "You're… This must be some trick…!"

He shakes his head, "No tricks, I am but an honest man who sticks to my word…" He insists.

"And… What do you gain for this? For the Schnee name under your umbrella? The nation looking up to you? Quality dust at your fingertips?" As he asks this, he is still trying to process all of it deep inside.

"I don't seek fame or popularity, but the growth for others, alongside myself… The dust will be put into good use though, further enhancing machinery in my realm, and aiding in the defense of this realm as well… As for your family… It's personal." Irad says, adjusting his coat, "Now… The clock is ticking, Mr. Schnee. Do make your decision quickly."

"Is that so?" He subtly noticed his upper cameras turn to him. He knows he's watching. As thorough as Irad says he is, it seems Arthur's superior hacking is still one step ahead. He had informed his little partner that the Overlord would come here, and he wanted him to view the whole thing… "Well as tempting as this is, all of this fortune is still owned by me by right. You can say everything I own has a price, but the Schnee name is still mine regardless, and I plan to use whatever means to grow my company until I've forcefully taken this world for my own, no matter the cost, and no matter if people get hurt… So I'll have to say no deal. And to your attempts to scare me with this 'evidence' you speak of, it was quite entertaining… But I own the courts. I am untouchable from the likes of you. My victory too in the election WILL be secured, using whatever means, even help from other sources." This has Weiss looking in horror, as her initial thoughts were correct, as Winter seemed confused. "But nonetheless, I will admit, you gave an effort more than most to get my attention, so I applaud you for it. And all for my dear daughter too. You know, if you wanted her hand in marriage, I could have given you my blessing. Your way of dealings has impressed me. Under my wing, you could really get around." He said arrogantly.

Irad chuckles, then cackles, then bursts out laughing, "Wow… You… Arrogant asshole! Really, you crack me up! You know, you just gave me everything I wanted regardless." He then accesses his watch, "The plan went according, proceed…" He then looks at the camera, "Hiya Arthur! I'll be seeing you soon! And don't worry, my boys won't be too far from your location, as I knew you hacked a long time ago, when I first entered this room, and I had my men secretly record the WHOLE session, and are now sending it, along with the other pieces of evidence to the authorities!" He says, winking at the camera. Jacques would be dumbfounded, as Irad would rise from his seat, "The act of the century! Truly, magnificent! Bravo, bravo! You were stupid enough to fall right into my hands! I do hope you like the color orange, Mr. Schnee. And your company? Ha! I already have that covered." Irad said with glee.

"Wait, you PLANNED this?!" Weiss said in pure amazement and bewilderment,

"Indeedily I did, my little Snowflake! Now I have both Jacques and Arthur revealed in full light!" He said, going close and poking her nose, before facing Jacques, who was against the wall, breathing heavily, in disbelief that this boy… This boy had played him like a fiddle, "I recommend you start running, Mr. Schnee… You're a wanted man now… And uh, don't drop the prison soap." He says, as sirens seemed to blair in the distance.

He would look on with the most shocked look any human could make, as he would quickly make a run for it, almost bumping into his own door on his way out. Whitley just so happened to be walking by, until he saw his father running past. Whitley would go into the dining room, seeing both his sisters, "What happened?!" He asked, bewildered.

Irad shrugs, "God cut him down. He's a wanted man now." He says, smirking. "He won't hurt any of you anymore, that's all you need to know… And my men traced the hacked cameras to its source, and my men should soon be going to apprehend Arthur Watts." Irad states, as he stretches. Weiss just stands where her seat is, switching from looking at the door, to Irad, with her mouth wide open; this man just took down one of the biggest people in all of Remnant, while also finding out the location of their guy, and made it look as easy as taking candy from a baby…

Weiss would then let out a chuckle, then a laugh, "Ha!" Completely flabbergasted, only to revert to joy. (or insanity, depending on who you ask) She then jumps on him for a hug, which he happily accepts. "You ARE amazing!" She would giggle loudly as she wiggled her legs in excitement. Only to eventually compose herself after realizing Winter is there with them. "'Ahem!'"

Irad just chuckles, as he holds Weiss close to his side, before giving a slight bow to Winter, "A pleasure, Ms. Winter Schnee. We shall meet again soon." He says, before taking Weiss' hand, "Cmon Weiss, let's watch the show." He says, taking her away in a hurry.

Jacques Schnee shoved servants out of the way, pushing open doors, going for the back. He trips and falls from one of the servants, getting tea all over his shirt, but he stumbled back up and kept running. Weiss and Irad made it to a point in the mansion that overlooked the garden, and Weiss saw her father stumbling out, Jacques getting his foot stuck in a lone bucket for a moment, before continuing. Jacques would reach the fence and begin trying to climb, but would fall the first time, then trying again, only to fall back down onto his butt, before he gave one final try and successfully jumped the fence, falling on his back. He would rush to get back up, brushing himself off as he ran, but ran into something hard as he wasn't paying attention, and fell back onto his butt. He stared in horror, as weapons aimed at Jacques,

"FREEZE, DON'T MOVE!" Multiple voices bark out, as Irad's soldiers and Atlas' police surround him. Jacques had no choice to surrender. Back with Irad and Weiss, Irad was dying of laughter, "They do that every fuckin' time! Never gets old!" He says, and Winter would come from behind them, catching a glimpse of the police apprehending Jacques, as Jacques started yelling at them, claiming he was innocent, that it was a setup, and asked if they knew who he was, and was jerking about as he was cuffed. Winter would enter the room, looking at the scene as Jacques was arrested.

She smirk a bit, impressed by Weiss' friend, 'Well, I suppose we sho-" She stops once she looks behind her. Weiss does the same and notices someone standing there in surprise. It was their mother who saw everything.

"Weiss...? Winter?" She sounded confused.

That was until Weiss runs up to her and hugs her. "It's gonna be okay… Everything is gonna be okay..." Her voice sounded like it was trembling, still blaming herself for her mothers misery.

Willow Schnee could only see her daughter pour her heart to her, and eventually rubbed her head, for the first time in years.

Irad smiled and sighed in relief. He felt so glad he could help his lover, and ease her and her family's pain... Now they can heal. Irad would turn and look back at where the scene played out, and saw the authorities were leaving the scene with Jacques in tow... He silently decided he would make it his responsibility to fix things around here. Irad would look back at the wholesome scene of Weiss hugging her mother, satisfied with the outcome.

Willow would look to Irad, looking sober, and tearing up… The look she gave him etched into his brain, and what she said next cut deeper,

"Thank you…" Was what Willow said, as Irad just stood, dumbfounded, but would just smile and nod.

Meanwhile, back with Ironwood in the training room, he would hear about the news of Jacques arrest. "Well this is unexpected." Very much relieved that there is one headache to worry about.

Oscar would train with Jaune, but would have overheard, "So I guess Robyn wins by default?"

"Yes. But that doesn't mean we're out of the woods yet." He replied.

Days pass, and Robyn would be widely accepted as a new head for the council. For everyone in Mantle, this was a dream come true. Eventually, she would be escorted by her own personal team to the Academy. Eventually, she would be greeted by General Ironwood himself. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you." He would raise his hand to be shaken.

The new spot of the council would hesitate and do so. "Can't say I feel the same way… But let's get down to business."

Team RWBY would see them walk past them as they no doubt talk about business in private. Ruby would have an optimistic look on her face, "I'm sure they can come to an understanding!"

Blake crosses her arms, "As long as Ironwood is truthful, we can finally make some progress."

JNPR also walks in. Pyrrha pats Blakes shoulder, "We will find him." She assured her fellow Huntress.

Ruby nods. "Yeah! With Mantle and Atlas together, we can beat Salem and Nightmare!"

"You better not forget me." Irad states, with a grin, walking up to them.

Weiss would be very happy to see him. "Well I haven't." As she said in confidence, and a bit of love.

Yang would place her hands on her hips. "Well it ain't Ice Queen's little hot shot? I heard you did a hostile takeover on her company."

Blake would be caught off guard on the news of these. "Wait what?"

He scratched the back of his neck, "Well I sorta had to in order to "drain the swamp" as a wise man once said… No one got hurt of course, unless you count Jacque Schnee's pride and spirit… I'll soon be relocating the company to my realm to uh, keep a closer eye and provide the most advanced technology, and put Willow as the head, while I will basically be the eyes, and voice if needed… I don't wish to steal the Schnee family's company outright like that, as I have respect, and well, Willow and I came up to a nice agreement! Really, she's very bright, and I think the company will be better with her as the main head, with me just being in the background to ensure things run smoothly… Jacques was booked on many high crimes, and will be put on trial. I've already provided enough evidence to ensure he goes away… Jacques also opened up a chance to find Arthur Watts, which we have, but he was able to escape…"

This got everyone surprised. "Okay… That's a lot." Yang didn't expect this twist.

Blake would look at Weiss to see if she's fine. "Weiss, you…"

"I'm fine Blake, really." Weiss assures her. "I'm more worried about my Mom, and Irad and I are taking care of things." Her team already knows how bad her father is, so her reaction isn't surprising, however they still worry for her.

Irad assures them, "I already booked her with the best therapists from my realm. She should be better in no time, I promise you."

Ruby was in awe. "Wow! You are amazing!"

He chuckles, "Ahhh I just have the right tools. It's still gonna take time for her to heal, and for everyone afflicted by Jacques to heal. No magic, nor machinery can ever change that… But boy, am I glad I was able to intervene."

Yang would look up in wonder. "Huh. I'm guessing we dodged a bullet by preventing that Jacques guy from winning."

Irad nods, looking at them, before saying, "Things have been awfully quiet as of late. Recently it seems there are less sightings of dark grimm and more regular grimm, perhaps to preserve what dark grimm are left after the leviathan incident. It seems Aiden is doing well at preventing the demon from taking over… But I don't know how much more he may be able to take. Could be any day now before the inevitable happens… But I will say we are so close…" He thinks for a moment, before saying "Evernight Castle… We've been trying to trace down its exact location, but the demon seems to have taken measures to thwart any attempts to find it, guarding his pieces as I see it… We find Evernight Castle, we find Salem and Nightmare. My actions against Arthur and Jacques will have little effect… If I can bring Arthur in alive though…" He says, huffing, frustrated once more that Arthur escaped. "No sign of Adam, Torchwick, or Neo… Maybe they know that the end is coming… Although there have been reports of Cinder fall sightings, although she seems to escape anywhere she is sighted."

Blake would speak up, "Do you have any idea if Aiden is okay?"

Irad sighs, "I don't know. That is still yet to be seen… But from what I understand, Nightmare is trying to take control over Aiden, becoming whole. Once he does, Nightmare will be at full power, in which we all will need to be ready… But if we can find Evernight Castle, if it isn't too late, we can revert the process and save him. Aiden must be really strong to have kept the demon back for this long… But we only have so much time."

Blake would begin to panic. "Well, make time, dammit!"

Everyone was startled. "... Blake?" Yang would let out.

Irad would be shocked and would then look down with shame, "I'm… Sorry… I can't do anything more than what I have been doing…"

The cat faunus would frown at this and just run. "Blake, wait!" Ruby shouts, but she doesn't listen.

Weiss rubs her arm, feeling bad for her partner. "We spent so much time in Atlas, trying to gain the people's trust. Although we haven't heard from Aiden in a long time. We have no idea what is happening. I can't imagine the pain Blake is going through, let alone him..." Irad stands there, continuing to look down, feeling guilty there was nothing more he could do at that moment.

Ruby pats his shoulder. "Don't worry. We will save him."

Irad sighs, "Yeah… Maybe…" He states.

Blake would lay in her bed, crying, thinking about the last time she was with him, and it tore her inside. She would feel tired enough though to sleep.

Voices… She could hear voices. Some familiar, some not…

She would wake in a playground that seemed empty, a boy would be sitting on a swing, slowly rocking. His back was away from her, but she could see he had black hair, and wore a blue jacket. Blake would come closer, and would see two boys materialize, and approach the boy on the swing.

"Hey mutt, have you grown any DOG ears yet?" The tall boy said, snickering, as the smaller one said,

"Yeah, we figured you would by now because you already have the smell down… I think he's already starting to sniff other people's butts." The smaller one said, snickering.

"Leave me alone, guys…" Aiden would quietly say, getting up to leave, but the boy would be blocked by the bullies,

"What are you gonna tell your freak dad? You gonna whimper like a sad little puppy?" They said, starting to mimic whimpering sounds, and the boy, in a more aggressive tone, said to the taller bully,

"Leave me alone, Jered." Aiden demanded, and in response, the bully, Jered, shoved Aiden to the ground,

"Make me, you mutt." They then started kicking and stomping Aiden. Blake desperately wanted to intervene, but would be stopped by an invisible force, and she would see Aiden's eyes go purple, and he would snap, punching the tall bully in the face, breaking his nose, and would kick the short one back, making him slide. The tall one would try to ambush Aiden, but black tendrils grow from the ground and wrap around the throats of the bullies, as Aiden's anger went out of control. As Aiden held a hand out in a choking motion, the bullies began to gag, as the grip tightens slightly, but Aiden would soften his enraged expression, noticing what he was doing, and the boys fell to the ground, coughing, as Aiden looked at his hands in horror. The bullies got up and said,

"Stay away from us, monster!" Before running off, crying. Blake would then see a scene where Aiden is in the principal's office with Altair, Aiden looking down with a depressed stare. The principal would say, "I'm- sorry sir… But we will have to expel your child-"

"My son got into a fight, and those two boys started it, and you're gonna just punish him?!"

"Sir, he choked those boys, and badly injured them! I will not allow this on my school grounds!"

"But you allow these boys to ridicule and make fun of my son because he has a faunus for a father?! What the hell is wrong with you?! You know what, we're leaving!" Altair said, taking Aiden's hand as they left. The scene would fade, and everything would be black, and a glowing path grew in front of Blake, which she guessed she needed to follow.

She cautiously walks forward, wanting very much to see Aiden again. Eventually her caution begins to die down and she quickly rushes. She would hear whispers all along the way, and would then arrive to a scene where Altair would be seeing Aiden off for another school, with Aiden turning to his father,

"Father, I don't wanna go…" Aiden said with a hint of fear, but Altair would kneel to his level.

"Now now my little hunter, good hunters learn everything they can… I know- you've been having a hard time… But this time, I think you'll finally make some friends. Just remember to stay calm, and have fun! I believe in you, sport!" Altair said, slapping his arm in encouragement, and Aiden would smile and nod, hugging his father, as the kids in the background stared in disgust. Later on, Blake sees Aiden in a classroom, as he is introduced to the class as a transfer. The students would greet him, and Aiden would take his seat. However, students began whispering and talking about him, how there were rumors he choked a boy, and that he was a monster like the grimm. Aiden would look down in sadness. Blake's heart broke as she watched, and the scene would shift to a playground, with Aiden alone on the swing. Every kid avoided him, and turned their nose to him… But one young girl stepped up, which to Blake's surprise, looked a lot like Ruby.

"Hey, are you ok?" She asked Aiden, and Aiden would look at her surprised,

"Aren't you gonna make fun of me? Didn't you hear the rumors? I'm… A monster… A freak…" Aiden said, looking off with a depressed expression again.

The girl would hum, and would say, "You don't seem like a monster… Hey! How about you play with me?! I can be your friend!" The girl happily said, and Aiden would look at her with wide eyes,

"R-really?" Aiden asked, dumbfounded.

"Yeah! My name is Ruby- Ruby Rose!" She said, extending her hand out. Aiden would smile happily, with a glint in his eye,

"I'm Aiden- Aiden Green!" They shook hands, and Ruby would say,

"Let's be best friends!"

"Yeah, I'd love to!" And they would run off together, laughing happily.

The scene faded, and Blake would see the path expand forwards once more. She was surprised to see these turn of events. She has heard of Ruby and Aiden being close friends before Beacon, but seeing how they met when they were kids felt surreal to witness. She accepted that she is seeing through his memories, with the question being why and how.

As Blake followed the path, the whispers began to grow louder the farther she went, and she felt she was getting close to something. She would glimpse at memories of Ruby and Aiden playing together, then another where they were sparring with each other using sticks, and laughing, then another where it seemed they had to part ways for some reason, and they were both sad, then another where he walked alone in the halls of another school, then memories of him studying, and making his signature weapon, and a few other memories of Ruby, and his time seeing RWBY… Then the path would stop to a memory she knew all too well… Blake and him sat at the cafe, drinking coffee together. This was when she ran away due to Weiss' comments about the White Fang, in the first few weeks she was with RWBY… Aiden and her had so much fun that day, and enjoyed each other's company… That was when she fell for him… Just like those love series she likes to read a lot on… He was always so kind, understanding, and loving… She smiled at those memories… Soon she would see a figure shuffling to her that phased through the memory, she couldn't make it out, until her eyes widened, it was Aiden, and he looked like he had been through hell. She would instantly come to his side, holding him up, as he coughed,

"Blake…" Aiden mustered to say.

"Aiden! I'm here!" She hugs him. She tries to hold on to her emotions as she holds him.

"Blake... I don't know how long I can hold him back... And I don't have-" He groans, "Much time... But... It's good to see you." He says smiling, as she cupped his face, "Cut your hair, eh? You look cute..." He says, chuckling a bit, but coughing after. Blake would see the wounds on his body, and could see he was very weak,

"Aiden... You need to tell me where you are... Please." She begged, and Aiden would raise his head to meet her gaze,

"The castle... Evernight... A seal... The eyes... Reveal the seal... Break it..." He says tiredly.

"Eyes... You mean Ruby's silver eyes?" Blake asked, but Aiden repeated,

"The eyes... Reveal... The seal... Break it... My memories... My memories... They're being ripped apart." It was then Blake noticed all around her a purple mist was starting to slowly inched its way.

"Blake... If I turn... Bring him down at all costs... Even if it kills me... Promise me. Promise me you will!" Aiden begged, as his eyes began to slightly glow purple as more time passed.

"AIDEN!" She cries out.

"Promise me, Blake!" Aiden demands, gritting his teeth.

Her tears rolled down her face. As much as she wants to hope, she didn't live a hopeful life before Beacon. "I… Promise… I DO!"

Aiden smiles, before saying, "All my best memories... Are with you... I love you Blake... Be strong." He says, cupping her face, "I'll wait for you..." He kisses her lips, as shadowy figures begin to emerge from the mist behind Aiden, demons, and Aiden pushes Blake back, "Run! And don't look back!" Aiden ordered, stumbling back and facing the demons, as Blake ran, tears streaming. She ran through the path, Aiden's memories corrupting, as the beings that were within came alive and tried to reach out at her with corrupted red eyes, groaning and hissing, but Blake would keep running... She was gonna save Aiden. She had to. Soon she would see a white door, and it would open. The light was bright, and she quickly went through. She jolted awake, sweating profusely. Her mind felt like it was just coming back, and her body felt a bit stiff. She looked at her hands, and clenched her fists multiple times... She now had a general idea on what to do. Ruby... Her silver eyes...

"... Wait for me Aiden… We will end this. That I promise." She would say with determination.

She would rub her eyes with tears already rolled down her face as she would sit up and sigh. Feeling mentally exhausted. But despite that, she walks out to find her team.

Ruby and the team would be outside, and notice Blake come out. "Blake!"

She looks at Ruby with a sad look on her face. Then everyone else. "Guys… I'm sorry for my behavior. I also… Need your help, I..."

Ruby hugs her. "We're always on your side. Always." Just like that, Blake's hope has been revived. She knows for sure that Aiden can be saved with Ruby on her side.

After some time, Blake explains everything. "Wait a minute..." Yang waves her arms. "So Aiden told you in a dream that he is kept cooped up on Salem's tower and Ruby is the only one who can save him?"

"Yes." Blake nods.

Yang was a bit skeptical. Mostly on the dream part. "That's..."

Olmotack would walk up from behind them, "It's possible." They all yelped, and jumped back at Olmotack's sudden presence, "I reached out to Ozpin while I was being mind controlled… The spirit of the person being controlled is dejected from the body, and is able to reach out to those closest to their hearts… In this case, Blake, it seems he was aiming for you… Albeit it really takes a toll, so it must have been hard, especially with a demon leeching his mind." Olmotack said.

Ruby would then chime in, "And he mentioned me? My Silver Eyes?" She recalled how useful it was against the Leviathan back at Argus.

Weiss would remember that. "Well sure, it worked against that monster. Are you sure it will completely work? We're reaching the endgame, and if I know anything about this Salem person, she is not going to make it easy for us."

"Neither is Nightmaratack, probably… Did Aiden say anything else?" Olmotack asked.

Blake would then hesitate. "He said… To kill him… Next time we meet him… If it means defeating them..." They were all silent, dreading that possibility…

Just then, Ruby would break the silence. "It won't come to that right?" Everyone turns to her. "We can save him. Right?"

Irad would approach them, "It's possible… Aiden will still be there, just shut out. If you can weaken the demon, then you can try to reach out for Aiden. Nightmaratack will have control… But knowing him, he'd want Aiden alive long enough to watch everything burn." Irad continues, "Arthur is still on the loose… We get Arthur, we get an exact location."

Weiss claps her hand. "Right! That's a start. Come on team, we have to be in our best shape for this. To the training room!"

Ruby would be annoyed. "Weiss, I'm supposed to do the leading here!"

"Knowing you, we would run towards a wall. Right now, we can't afford any mistakes. Not when Blake is counting on us."

The black haired Huntress smiles at her team's compassion. "Thanks guys."

Irad smiles, "I think I can cover the training portion… If you all are interested." They give a knowing smirk in response.

We next see RWBY, JNPR, and SSN in a large empty room. They are each given vr headsets, and are on platforms.

"Thank you for coming, SSN. As you know, your Team Leader is in danger... And needs help. I thought it fitting to finally clue you in."

"About time!" Sun exclaimed excitedly.

Irad continues, "These state-of-the-art machines are used to train the best of the best in my military. In the program, it is jam packed full of lessons for a large array of weapons… Luckily, I had my coders code in your own weapons, so there are lessons that will fit your skill level, and weapon choice. Now- do note that motion sickness is possible, but with you all, I doubt that would be an issue… Except you, Jaune."

"Hey!" Juane replied, annoyed, making the others chuckle.

"RWBY, JNPR, and SSN… You are the main line of defense in aiding me in eradicating the darkness. I will note that you will learn things very quickly, as the receptors from your headset will emit electrical energy and implant the information, and will also feel pain such as any cuts or punches or kicks you receive to enhance the experience… Each of you will fight Grimm in the simulations, so do be prepared. Each of you will have your own simulation, per team. I will start you at level 5, and go from there." Irad says, tapping on his tablet. Olmotack is in the background, spectating, while petting RWBY's Zwei. "Now… HUNTSMAN AND HUNTRESSES! ARE YOU READY!?" Irad yells out.

"YEAH!" The teams cheer in agreement.

Once they put on the headsets, and are sealed in their pods, each team is in a clearing lush with life. Each team would admire the beautiful sight, until they began to hear growling, as regular grimm jumped from the forest, and attacked them at high speeds. Immediately they all reach for their weapons and begin to defend themselves.

With Team RWBY, the girls would jump back and find themselves against one simply known as The Hound. It was a very strong opponent that gave the team one of the toughest challenges they ever had.

As they fought, they somehow learned new tricks and fighting techniques as they fought, Yang utilizing both her hands and legs, Ruby scorching the ground around the beast by scraping her scythe as she ran to trap it, Blake making strong charged shots that knocked the beast back, and Weiss aiding in their attacks, while using devastating blasts of her own.

It would take a lot of time for them to fight it, but through their experience and teamwork, they would allow Ruby the chance to cut its arm off. And as Yang would wrestle it with its single hand, Blake would stab it through the back of the head, with Weiss's help with her time dilations.

With their victory, Irad's voice would be heard, "Very well done, RWBY! You beat the minions, and the boss! Now, let's step it up!"

Ruby would observe her body, "Hey- I don't feel tired at all! This is so cool! I feel like I could do this forever!"

Irad would respond, "As great as that would be- it does become straining on the brain after some time… It's best to regulate the usage by stopping every 5 or so hours… Less if you want to play it safe… It took you 2 hours to defeat this boss, but try to be faster in the next stage… Oh- sorry, gotta talk to JNPR…" His voice fades, as a new horde of strong Grimm attack, and the team would bounce into action.

With JNPR, they had defeated the horde of level 6, and they would look around, as Irad spoke, "JNPR… You've done well. RWBY is catching up, but keep it up… The next boss is gonna be big." Just then, the ground shook, as a grimm leviathan rose and attacked JNPR.

Jaune would freak out. "Whoa! That thing?!" The whole team would scatter as the size of the Grimm was far too tall for them to handle. Pyrrha tries to look for something to hurt it. Something very big, but that doesn't seem available without causing any unnecessary damage.

Nora distracts it with her cannon. Ren runs with her knowing his own arsenal wouldn't do much, except conceal Nora's own aura.

Jaune runs around, trying to get a better look at it. "Okay okay… It seems slow. But what else can it do?" Just then it roars out and breathes a blast full of lightning. "Dang! That… Might be too much for Nora..."

The ginger would see this and be a bit overwhelmed. But then huffs a bit. "Challenge accepted!"

"Nora no!" Ren tries to stop her.

As Nora and Ren fool around, Pyrrha would fly around using her strengthened polarity using her own armor. She looks around for anything metal and fights back like she did back with her fight against Raven back at Haven's vault. Pyrrha would notice broken down buildings and many cars not far from them. She would lift up half a building with much struggle, but she would throw it towards the beast as it grabs it, but the force of the whole structure would stun it for a bit. Jaune would be worried that they couldn't budge it. He wants to do more. But he notices Pyrrha falling to her knees in exhaustion. "Pyrrha!" He rushes to her side as Nora and Ren try to distract it again. "Are you okay?!"

"I'm… Fine… Gotta… Keep… Fighting..." She gets on her feet, but she is still too tired.

"Pyrrha, you're too tired." Jaune places his hand on her shoulder, and as if his feelings for her begins to manifest through his hands, Pyrrha feels her power rising up quickly.

"Jaune...?" Jaune begins to notice it as Pyrrha's aura glows red.

Nora and Ren run as fast as they can until the giant Grimm swings its tail as the wind forces them off their feet and hits a couple of trees through a forest. The two were badly hurt, they looked up to see the Leviathan roaring at them. And just then, a whirlwind of cars, signs, and other metallic items in the city would annoy the monster. Just then it looks up to see another much bigger building towards its face, causing it to stumble, almost about to fall down. "Nora!" The two see Pyrrha flying with Jaune in her arms, along with his hand still holding on to her shoulder.

Pyrrha managed to lift a box full of electricity for Nora to snack on. "Here!"

Nora's grin was almost as big as her whole face. "Oooooh yeeeeeaaah!"

The beast roars, as it charges another attack

Pyrrha then throws one last building almost as big as the Leviathan. It would hold onto it, as the weight would stun it. But it would be enough. "Nora!" Jaune would rush in to get a hold of Nora and give her the power boost she needs.

She places her hammer on this oversized fuse, absorbing everything it has."Leeeeeeeeets GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" With Jaune's own power, Nora can handle something that could power a whole building. Pyrrha then lifts Nora's hammer towards the building and as she shocks the building with everything she has until it begins to overload and finally blows upon the monster, blowing it up as well.

As they land and see the beast disintegrate, Irad's voice is heard, "Well done, JNPR! You worked flawlessly! I'm glad you are getting used to your enhanced weaponry, and good work using the environment to your advantage!"

Jaune was out of breath. "Y-Yeah… Oooooooh..." He then falls down limp with Pyrrha, Ren, and Nora helping him up.

"I'll be giving you a break… You may remove your headsets." The world would go dark for JNPR, and they'd remove the headsets and squint at the lighting that poured. Although in the simulation Juane exerted his power, he felt fine in the real world… Just a bit sore. Irad would greet them,

"There you all are. Welcome back to reality." JNPR would come together and come to Irad, as they see the terminal Irad is managing. On two of the screens, it showed RWBY and SSN fighting the beast they just eliminated.

"The others should almost be done… But, how did you like the Ragadol Battle Simulation Device MARK 5?"

"So… How can we use our powers perfectly in the game?" Jaune asks.

"Starting with questions, I see... Well, it basically simulates how it should work in the game based on your brain function. It collected the data, and followed along. Think of it as a demonstration on how it will look in the real world, and practice it with no consequences."

Pyrrha would be impressed. "Remarkable..."

Irad would nod, as he turned back to the screens, "I do my best to give the best training to my soldiers." He'd look back to RWBY, as they were fighting the same leviathan.

They see their own plan as Ruby uses Silver Eyes to trap it. Like last time, it wouldn't destroy it, but this time, Weiss would use her summoning energy to jump towards its mouth and slice it inside out.

Irad smiles, impressed, as he turns to SSN's side to inspect their progress

They would struggle a bit since they haven't been through what the other two teams went through, but they held it together thanks to Sun's own improved clones. Eventually they would succeed, as Sun would remind the others that Aiden would be watching, and that he needed them, and would soon unify together, combining their might, and destroying the grimm with style. RWBY and SSN would be exited from the simulation, and would cheer as they did it, and were glad they improved. Irad would be clapping his hands, "Bravo! You all did wonderful! An A+, if this was graded. Your teamwork and combined might are extraordinary! I am impressed with all of you."

Sun, Neptune, and Scarlet would stand proud of their achievement. "Well what did you expect from us?"

Yang would chuckle. "Lets not forget the stars of the show here boys." She would say with confidence.

Nora would raise her fists in the air. "We are the destroyer of evil!"

"Take it easy, it's just a simulation." Ren said dryly as always.

Irad would exclaim, "There is one last test… And this test is specific for you, Ruby. Are you up for the challenge?"

She would breathe in a bit. "I am." She shows how serious she is with this.

Soon they would reach a large area of the training part of the castle. It was a round room with blank walls, with lights cascading down. The room seemed round.

"Weiss, a quick word?" Irad asked, to which Weiss complied and walked over to him, as they turned their backs to the others, and talked quietly. Irad would whisper something to Weiss, and Weiss would at first be shocked, but would nod in understanding, and would walk back to the others.

"Everyone but Ruby, stand back." Irad ordered, and everyone would comply. Irad continues,

"Ruby Rose… Daughter of Summer Rose… Bearer of the Silver eyes… You have proven your worth thus far… But if you wish to go any further in aiding our rescue of Aiden, and killing Salem… You must draw blood from me, ONE time." Irad says, as he summons his cane-yamato and pops it up, staring Ruby down, then taking a position. "Fail, and you will be left behind… Are you ready, Ruby Rose?"

"Cut you down?" She wonders what he means by that, but brings out her scythe and readies herself.

"Only a scratch that draws blood is what will help you pass…" He readies himself, and all is still for a moment, as they seemed to inspect each other, waiting… Everyone looks uncomfortably at one another, unsure by the events that will play out…

(Battle Theme: watch?v=J1L0jBvK0so)

Irad charges at her at high speeds, and Ruby almost couldn't block his strike in time, and she slid back a bit, and would proceed to run forward once more and strike at Irad, who skillfully blocked and parried her hits. After some time a frustration of trying to cut Irad, Irad would scoff, "Truly, I expected more from you," As Ruby kept on the assault, "Look at you, already growing frustrated after the first few minutes of fighting, and not a scratch, kinda sad." Ruby would grit her teeth and use her semblance, to which Irad countered using lightning, sending Ruby tumbling back once more. She would slowly rise, as Irad looked unamused, "Well c'mon then… Giving up now?"

Yang was not liking this. "What's up with Irad?" Blake stays silent.

Irad continues to fight Ruby, being as hard as possible with his attacks, kicking and punching, "Man, you musta just been lucky to get as far as you have… This display is pathetic!" Irad states, as he effortlessly ducks one of her fast attacks. Ruby begins to grow increasingly annoyed, as Irad continues, "Your team must have been carrying you this whole time." He says as they lock blades, and he pushes her back, "Sloppy." She then speed blitzed him, and he would bounce back, deflecting the attack, and sliding back a bit. "Do you think that pure luck will save you? Save them? Save him?! No, they will die, brutal deaths… All because of your weakness. You were never ready to be a huntress… Maybe you should quit now." Irad states, enraging Ruby further.

One thing Irad said though, really ticked her off to the boiling point, "If you are this weak… I can only imagine how weak your mother was." This would strengthen her resolve to take down Irad.

Yang is now pissed. "Why you!"

Weiss would get in the way. "Calm down Yang."

Irad begins using his magic against Ruby, as she was going all out,

"I'LL SHOW YOU!" Ruby yells, making quick strikes, using the heavy mode on her rifle to make herself go faster and hit harder, and as the fight progressed, her eyes began to glow as all of her thoughts came rushing. Irad would notice this, and smirk, "Cmon, you really wanna prove me wrong? Come at me! Show me you are a HUNTRESS!" And Ruby, with her eyes gleaming silver, would begin to become even faster and stronger, putting Irad on the defensive. Irad does his best to keep her at bay, but it seems she is starting to overwhelm him. It was then Irad started to slightly use more of his powers to combat her.

Ruby knows he is getting serious as she moves a lot faster and focuses on dodging everything he has until she can find an opening. Blake would notice her speed increase as she breaks through her limits. "Wow… Look at her go."

"I didn't see Ruby move this fast before." Yang admits.

As Ruby fights, her blade would clash loud and hard with Irad's, making him slide back a bit with each hit. Irad would summon volleys of fire, which Ruby would dodge and cut through. He walks around the arena, staring Ruby down with a calm and determined look, as Ruby does the same, her eyes gleaming silver, with a determined expression. They charge again, exchanging clashes, as Ruby now jumps into the air, blitzing him and shooting at him, and he would dodge each shot. This would continue until at some point, after Irad sent her back, they charged at each other one final time, and sliced at each other. They slid forward, their backs away from each other, and Irad was about to turn, until he felt blood trickle his cheek. He felt his cheek and saw the blood, and Irad smiled, then laughed heartily, as Ruby looked at him confused, "You did it, Ruby! I knew you could!" He says racing over, and hugging her, as his wound continued to bleed, but he would ignore it because he was proud, but he would soon grow remorseful, "I'm so sorry I was so mean, I didn't mean anything. I only said all that to make you go all out! Please don't hate me!" Irad said, hugging Ruby. She would be confused for a bit, until she lets out the biggest smile and starts laughing with joy and hugs back. After Irad lets Ruby go, the others come together, and Irad would be nervous, as Yang approached Irad with a dark aura, and she would put a hand on Irad's shoulder, putting pressure,

"Irad… A word?" And she would drag him away, as the others exclaimed how awesome the fight was,

"He was going so fast, and you were so fast, and he parried, and- and- you were so awesome!" Jaune states excitedly.

Ruby rubs her head, glad but also nervous. "T-Thanks guys. I mean… Irad is pretty cool too! I mean I barely held it together and got lucky with that last cut!"

Irad comes back with Yang, with Irad being a little shaken. Weiss would whisper to Irad, "What happened?"

And Irad would reply quietly with, "Yang is one of the cruelest individuals I've met…" Weiss would widen her eyes, and would look to Yang, who was not paying attention to them, but Weiss would sigh. Irad would continue, "She did, however, give me gratitude that I helped her sister get stronger." At this, Weiss would slightly smile. Weiss would then get out her handkerchief and start dabbing his wound,

"You really need to get this treated. This was all a foolish move." Weiss said in concern to Irad.

"Heyy, don't question my methods… I did what I thought should be done. Just a small cut anyways, it'll heal fast." Irad states, closing his eyes and narrowing his brows, and pouting as Weiss continues to absorb the blood, sighing.

"And we're all thankful for your methods." She sarcastically said with a giggle.

They would traverse back to Atlas, each of them taking a short break, before meeting together again once Irad was patched up by Weiss. Penny would be there as well, wanting to aid her friends in their plans.

Olmotack would say, "So… Do we have anything on finding Arthur Watts yet?" He shifted Zwei in his grasp, and Zwei would bark as if to say "yeah!"

Irad would respond, "Recently, nothing… But I have a hunch on where he may try to strike next. Their goal is to instill fear and uncertainty on the people… And for that to happen, what do you all assume would do the trick?"

They all think. Until Jaune would take his guess, "Set a trap?" He said with a shrug.

Irad sighs, "Yes… But where do you think they would set this trap? Hint: To divide a hive, you take out its queen.

Weiss would get the picture, widening her eyes, "Assassinate a sitting government official…"

"Ding ding ding! The fair maiden in white wins the prize!" Irad states, pointing at Weiss, and everyone would look at each other, and Pyrrha would ask,

"Well… When do you think he will strike?"

"Ah- dear Pyrrha… Tonight is a speech made by Robyn… I doubt Arthur would pass such a wonderful opportunity to cause mayhem. What will really sweeten the deal though, is Robyn appointed me as her guest of honor and speak alongside her, so he could be after me as well. Two birds with one stone." At Irad stating he could be in danger of being assassinated, Weiss would slightly worry, but Irad continues, "I will leave it to you all to plan… I will give you some information I know that may aid you in finding out the assassin… I do know his identity already, but he is clever and very sneaky, so it will be hard to find him before it's too late."

Pyrrha would think about his words then something came up. "If I remember correctly, the previous victim was stabbed, then poisoned to death. I can't imagine Arthur Watts consistently killing like this. Unless it's..." Then she remembers something. "I think Arthur isn't working alone."

Irad nods, "Right you are."

"Who is it?" Jaune asks.

Pyrrha would turn to her leader. "Do you remember when we were heading to Haven?"

"Yeah?"

"Someone was in our way." Pyrrha informs him of that fight they had with one of Salem's minions.

Irad would show a picture, "This is Tyrian Callows. A sneaky little shit, an important ally to Salem, and a serial killer."

Nora gasps. "I remember that jerk!"

"We fought him." Ren said.

Pyrrha remembers him well. She remembered cutting his tail off before he could stab Jaune. His screams in pain was an unsettling sound to her.

"He could be involved… So just keep watch for him, and be weary." Irad warns.

Jaune would clench his fist tight. He struggled against him, and plans to do better thanks to his training since then.

Irad nods, "Right… Ruby, Juane, you two can come together and formulate a plan… I am counting on you all to take down the enemy. My resources are at your disposal… Weiss, a private word?" Irad asks, beckoning Weiss to come with him and exit the throne room with him.

Weiss does so. "So what is it?"

He looks to Weiss, and looks down, then sighs, "If uh, things go awry… I'll of course do my part to protect Robyn but… But if I y'know, die or something…" Irad begins.

She then grabbed his hand forcefully. "Don't you dare finish that. That's not gonna come to that!"

He raises his brows, then looks down, in thought, then sighs, "Weiss I…" He then hums to himself, "Alright… I'll keep my word then… Just… Be safe yourself… I'll be counting on you all, you most importantly," Irad says smiling, "And make sure to cheer me on during my little speech when she lets me on the mic. I'll need all the support I can get."

She scoffs. "I didn't think you'd need something like that. But… For you, of course." She would say in her usual pompous tone. But he knows that she is gonna support him in any way she can.

He smiles warmly, walking up and holding her close, then kissing Weiss' forehead, and putting their foreheads together, "I love you, Weiss… From now, and forever… Nothing would be the same for me without you…" Weiss would feel fuzzy and warm throughout her body, and felt very close to Irad… Not wanting to separate, feeling drawn, but he would be the one to soon let go, "Tell the others that I'm off to prepare, and a second transport will bring you all back home… I'll… See you soon, my love." Irad states, turning and beginning to walk off.

She would stand, contemplating how he believes he won't make it. She tries to shake it off, but the fear begins to fester inside her chest. In defiance, she would silently declare to herself that she will protect him this time. She built herself to be a Huntress all her life and with everything coming together for her, the one thing in her way now is Salem and Nightmarack. She finally takes her leave and meets with everyone else.

Blake notices Weiss walk in. "You okay?" Blake notices she seems a bit off.

"I'm fine. So what's the plan?"

Ruby chimes in, "I'm so glad you asked!"

Jaune explains. "We need one of the elites to handle Arthur, while the rest of us handle his help. If he has more than one help, we have to split up."

"Soooo… What does this mean?" Yang would ask, not fully understanding the plan.

Jaune continues. "Knowing how tough Tyrian was, we should be in teams of three. As soon as we engage him or any other enemy, the others quickly assist."

Weiss nods. "Makes sense. We're gonna need someone close to Robyn though, for the bait. And we can't just choose anyone for something this crucial."

"Don't worry about that. You may be Huntsman, but you still ain't us veterans." Everyone stops once they see two figures in their way. Qrow, the Dusty Crow Huntsman, and the leader of the Ace-Ops Clover.

Ruby was surprised to see her uncle, while Jaune has full confidence now that Clover is involved.

"Alright, you kids ready?" Clover asks.

Ruby is now excited to prove herself to her seniors. "Oh yes!"

Robyn would be peeking out from a curtain to see the crowd chattering in excitement, before Robyn looked behind her, as Irad cleared his throat, "Ms. Hill! It's good to see you! You look very lovely." Irad states in a friendly manner, shaking her hand. "You must be eager for tonight."

She replies with a nod. "Indeed I am. I say it's about time we make an effort to make things better. I heard much about you. I was looking forward to seeing you personally to see if the rumors were actually true."

Irad nods, "Indeed they are! I too strive to aid your world and bring a better age, while solving the issues present. I'll be looking forward to working with you, and I will say, it's an honor to be here." As Robyn inspected Irad as he spoke, she could sense no lie uttered, and he seemed very sincere and passionate.

She would continue the hand shaking, "The honor is mine." The speech is starting, with Robyn's most loyal follower and member of her Happy Huntresses group, Fiona Thyme would make her own speech for Robyn's behalf. Irad looked out at the crowd, standing idly behind. He would glance at Robyn occasionally to ensure she was fine, but would look back out. The others were also spectating. They were a part of the crowd, also clapping along with the audience. Before Robyn could make her speech, the lights went off, causing everyone to panic. Team RWBY looks around the area. Blake tries to look around since she can look through the dark, but the people panicking were getting in their way.

Irad would see where Robyn is, and would jump and cover her, as a shot would hit Irad on his collarbone, making him groan and stumble, as he would order Robyn to get out of there, and follow his soldiers who had glowing features on their armor. Irad stumbled a bit, holding his wound, as Tyrian jumped up, and charged Irad to finish him off, but Irad was able to see in the dark, and would block the attack with his cane just barely. Irad struggled a bit to hold Tyrian off due to his wound, but would push Tyrian away. Tyrian had special orders to eliminate Irad most of all since he was too much of a threat to Arthur's plans.

Not that he cared whoever he kills anyways, but he was grateful for Irad to make it easier for him. He would try to use his new metallic scorpion tail to overpower Irad, specifically made by Authur himself. Penny would look around, trying to see what is going on, until she flies up to see Tyrian is fighting Irad.

Irad would grab the tail, and would use his hand to begin encasing it in hot ice, as the tail slowly began to melt through intense heat. Tyrian would break away though and try to cut at Irad with his blade, and would cut across Irad's stomach, not going too deep for a kill, but enough to hurt Irad, and Irad would push Tyrian back with his magic. Irad breathed heavy, clutching his weapon, and would unsheathe it, and go into a judo position, coughing slightly.

Tyrian then notices Penny coming at her. He dodges and goes for the backup plan Arthur mentioned to him in case things get too dicey with Irad. He would turn his attention to the crowd, and begin attacking them.

He would then be stopped as a wall of ice blocked his path, and he raised his arms, as Olmotack had seen this coming. He looked back to Irad,

"Now that isn't playing nice." Irad said, blood slightly coming from his mouth.

Tyrian would now begin to get pissed off. "You are no FUN!" He lunges at him.

Weiss would then get in the way of Tyrian's path to Irad, and she had a murderous glare that shocked even Tyrian, as she blocked his blade. Penny would then come around and attack Tyrian with Weiss, and Olmotack as well.

Penny would jump to grab him, but Tyrian would scatter off the roof, frantically running off. "He's escaping!" Penny said, warning the others.

Team JNPR and RBY would hear Penny's transmission and begin the chase. Tyrian would be unexpectedly fast for the groups, which Ruby has to speed up to catch up. Olmotack tailed Ruby, being able to keep up with her speed.

Irad would begin to fall down, but Weiss would catch him.

"I need to…" He coughs, leaning onto Weiss, who was very sad about his condition.

"Don't talk." She then turns to the guards. "Call for help! Now!"

They do as told, and start calling people. Back with JNPR and RBY, they are still chasing Tyrian.

Ruby would dash through the rooftops to get a better look on his trail. She starts shooting him downward to slow him down. Tyrian's tail parries them, but he would be less focused and even crash through a door that leads to a family house and through its front window, causing more panic and attention to him.

Sun swings by the lamp posts, throwing his multiple clones towards him, with Tyrian stabbing some of them, only for one to explode next to him, causing him to crash towards a parked car. He begins to stumble around. Neptune then shoots him with an electric shot, causing him to slow down more.

"Heads up, boys!" Nora then dives in, already full of electricity coursing through her body. Her hammer slams the streets, as it completely shocks Tyrian.

Ren rushes in, Tyrian tries to stab him with his stinger, but he dodges in time due to his slowed reaction, palms him straight in the face, and then throws him down, judo style. He coughs out saliva. The psychotic faunus was completely aching everywhere in his body, and completely exhausted from all the running and fighting. He would look for any kind of opening, knowing Authur is watching, and has the whole city to control. Just one opening is all he needs. But while he looked around, someone was flying up in the sky. And with all her might, Pyrrha dives down, and slams her shield on top of the tired Tyrian, knocking almost all of his breath out of his body. Pyrrha would let out a sigh, relieved they stopped him on his tracks this time. Her team and the authorities would surround him, as Tyrian finally is detained.

Back with Irad, he is being treated for his wounds in the back of a parked ambulance… Weiss only looked concerned as his deeper wounds were stitched back. He had objected to care at first, stating about how his medical personnel could take care of it, but Weiss ordered him to get treated immediately, to which Irad begrudgingly complied. Weiss held Irad's hand as the doctor that was present finished the stitches, and Irad would wince occasionally. Luckily, the slash wounds and the gunshot wound weren't fatal. Weiss felt so scared seeing Irad in his condition, and was so afraid she would lose him.

"I've been through worse… Don't worry. I just had to protect Robyn, and was caught off-guard at the time." Irad had tried to assure her, but she couldn't quell that lingering fear of losing the man she loves…

Weiss would very much show her distress in her tone, "Off guard?! That's no excuse!"

He sighs, "Weiss, it's fine. I'm ok. I should be fine in no time… It takes more than that to kill me." He says, trying to help ease her worries, "I gave my word that I'd be fine…"

She sighs heavily. "Just… Don't scare me like that please…"

He would be silent for a moment, then he would hug her, "I'm not going anywhere… I won't leave you. I promise." He says.

She didn't see it coming, but would hug him back. "Good…"

The moment would be ruined when one of Irad's soldiers step up, "Sir, madam Weiss… We have word: Tyrian has been apprehended. Shall I give orders for your arrival to interrogate the assailant?" The soldier says, and Irad would reply, sighing and breaking from the hug,

"Very well… While you are at it, bring the CHEMICAL-T serum, and bring it to the building immediately… I want all cameras monitored at the station for any hacking activity, as I'm sure Arthur will perhaps try. And do a systemwide check on the other systems and electricity, and send out a squad to ensure no unwanted guests sneak in. Tyrian will be crucial in our endeavors, and I won't let him slip." The guard would salute in understanding, and would walk off to give orders. Irad would sigh, "Weiss… Will you help me in interrogating Tyrian? Well- I mean sure I'll need help operating around due to my… State, for now… But I'd like some backup. I wanna get this done quickly before Arthur does something to ruin our chances."

"Of course." She nods.

Irad would use Weiss as leverage as he stumbled up,

"Fuckin' hell… Forgot that this is stitches and not that paste we have… Gonna have to suck it up for now…" Irad says as he uses both his cane and Weiss as leverage, as they go to Irad's limo, "Any word on the others?" He asks Weiss as he walks.

"They're all fine." Weiss answers. She had her worries, but she was relieved to hear no one was hurt against that dangerous killer.

Tyrian would be sitting in a chair in an interrogation room, his arms cuffed, and hooked onto the table. The room was dark with one lone light from a lamp above. Soon he sees a door open, and a suited man with a suitcase walks in and stands in the corner near the door. Soon, Irad and Weiss came in, Irad now using solely his cane as leverage. Weiss would help Irad sit in the seat across Tyrian, his silhouette being only dimly lit. Weiss would have a chair next to Irad, and she would glare daggers at Tyrian for hurting her lover. Irad would clear his throat,

"Tyrian Callows… You have been accused of multiple counts of assault with a deadly weapon, and murders, and many other charges… Quite the record you've formed… Really, you'd be put down on the spot if this were my realm… But as of now, that isn't the case, and I'm required to play by Remnant's rules first…" Tyrian would gaze at Irad, smiling,

"So my reputation precedes me…"

Irad would look unimpressed, "Reputation, you call it… Hm…" Irad would lean close on the table, "Now… We can do this the easy way… Or my way. Now, I know you were trying to kill Robyn and me to cause discord amongst the people… So if you really have ANY humanity within you… Tell me, where is Arthur Watts, and tell me the exact location of Evernight Castle."

RWBY, JNPR, and SSN would look at the interrogation from behind the one-way mirror.

He would begin to giggle. Then laugh like a hyena. "And what makes you think I will do that?"

Irad chuckles, "Because I know you won't have a choice…" He nodded to the man, and would put the briefcase in front of Weiss, and the man would open it to reveal a syringe and a machine. The machine would be put in front of Weiss, and the syringe was taken out and uncapped. Irad looks dead serious at the murderer, as Tyrian raises a brow.

"You see, this is called CHEMICAL-T, engineered in the labs of my world. A concoction from a few flowers, and some liquids, makes this. A truth serum- as commoners call it. Microbes will be injected into your body, and will spread like wildfire throughout your system, undetectable by white blood cells. It is able to help us detect whether you are telling a truth, or a lie. With the machine my lovely partner has, it can emit a frequency that affects those microbes, and they will attack crucial parts of the body, if we so desire. We'll start low, and we can build our way up if you persist to not cooperate. Let's just say, the max level you'll feel like you got hit by a bullet train coming down a ramp at high speeds… So really, choose your words wisely, or you'll hurt like a motherfucker." The man would then inject the serum into Tyrian's neck, making him wince, and afterwards the guard stepped back. Irad would turn the machine on and point to the light bulbs on it, indicating the red is lie, and green is truth. He'd then point to the dial, which had 20 levels, and would instruct only to turn it up on his command, to which Weiss agreed. Irad would then clear his throat,

"Now… Tell us your name." Irad ordered Tyrian.

He would grin, trying to think tune out his mind through his primal malice, but he begins to lose himself and eventually he lets out. "Tyrian… Callows..."

The light would turn green, and Weiss would nod to Irad, and he would cross his arms,

"Very good, Tyrian. Very good. Don't resist… Now… Why did you attack Robyn and I?"

"Because it's fun...?" He said with a grin, which was accepted as a half truth, as both lights came on. The team looks at each other awkwardly, wondering if that was meant to happen.

Irad motioned to Weiss, to which she turned up the dial by one, and Tyrian felt like his whole body was being kicked and punched. Tyrian would yelp and groan, feeling the pain radiate his body,

"I really don't want your playful antics. You will give me the true answers I want. Who ordered you to attack Robyn and I, and why?" Irad coldly demanded.

He would contort in pain, only to say. "A-Arth… ur… he… controls… everythiiiiiiiing… hehehehe..." As he reveals the name, he thought he could try to intimidate them to bring some silver lining for his sick mind.

Irad laughs in amusement, "Of course he thinks he does… Now do tell me… What did he hope to achieve by killing Robyn and I? Revenge? Take the seat in government? Cripple the Atlas military somehow? Create fear and uncertainty within the people?"

"Ooooooh you got that last part right. Everyone already knows how much the people are a bit hesitant of you. The beauty of it is there are many ways to break trust. Many..." He grins.

There was an alarm, that there is another wave of Grimm. And to make it worse, the walls around Mantle begin to open, no thanks to Arthur's hacking.

Irad looks behind him, and then he rises from his seat, turning to Weiss, "I'll keep him here. You go help the others."

"But what about-"

"Go, Weiss. I'll be fine… Besides… I am more than capable of keeping this thing on a leash…"

She would nod, as much as she wants to stay, she is a Huntress. And she has a duty.

"Stay safe." He says as she leaves, and when she was away with her team, he'd turn to Tyrian, smiling, "I am impressed by your persistence… But I will say, this changes nothing, I always get what I want. And since we're here… We can continue our little 'chat' undisturbed." He sits back down, bringing the machine to him, and turns up the machine to three, as Tyrian feels like there were needles penetrating him all over his body, "Now… Start talking, the clock is ticking." Irad coldly says, with Tyrian yelling out in pain.

Back with RWBY, JNPR, and SSN, they are outside, looking at the scene, as Grimm begins to wreak havoc.

Team RWBY would stand tall along with the other teams. Ruby turns to Weiss. "You ready?"

She would have her worries, but she would let out a smirk, "Am I?" She sarcastically said, ready to go all out.

Just then Ruby would be a little confused by her sarcasm, "Can y-"

"Of course I can!" Weiss would correct herself. But after a while, they laugh, being reminded of how they started and how they came so far. In time, some things change, but also some remain the same. Blake and Yang would smile for their friends.

They all jump into action as the Griffons would fly down, with Ruby taking the lead, easily slicing three up, with Weiss dashing in to kill the forth one.

As Blake and Yang hops in to handle the other variants of Grimm, Sun's team begins to show off his clones as they back up both Neptune and Scarlet as they take on much bigger Grimm from all shapes and sizes.

JNPR would show off their own teamwork with Pyrrha giving Nora a spark up with one lamppost, while Jaune and Ren work to save the civilians using Ren's masking semblance, and Jaune's power empowering semblance in tandem.

Ruby then notices a giant Megoliath. A mammoth Grimm. She gets a little worried, until Penny flies in, and now she has a plan.

"Penny! Follow me!" Ruby would remind her friend as they get moving while JNPR begins to distract it with their long range weapons.

The giant Grimm would roar out its trunk as it rushes, along with other ones following. Just then, the Ace-Ops rolled by, and got the Megoliath's attention. The last one is still focused on JNPR and SSN. "Guys? I think it's coming at us!"

"Aw crap!" Sun shouts out.

Only when multiple laser beams hit its side. "Over here, you big bag of bones!" Penny shouts out.

Penny would spin her blades around as she blasts her giant beam that stops the Grimm in its tracks. Quickly, Penny would use a few of her blades to beam at one of its tusks. After stopping her beams, Ruby dashes in to slice the tusk off, allowing Penny to grab it, put it on the ground in front of the dark mammoth, and make it trip on top of it after Ruby slashes its foot. It falls on its own tusk, instantly killing it. After the Ace-Ops and the rest of the teams finished off the other ones, the people would come out of their hiding spot and cheer for their saviors.

Back in the interrogation room, Tyrian cries in pain, actually crying due to the pain, as the level of the machine is on 10, 10 levels away from the max. Irad walks behind Tyrian, and goes close to his ear, "Now… This can all end once you give me what I want. You've partially given me the general location of Arthur… I just need the rest. You don't have to fight anymore. There will be nothing left to fear… All you have to do is tell me where Arthur is… And if you really wanna help further, where Salem lies, and I promise your safety to the best of my ability… I'm a nice guy after all… And I want this over as much as you do." Tyrian could barely move, hunched over the table, feeling as if his body was slowly giving out, and his bones felt like they were broken when they weren't. He knew he couldn't take it anymore, none of this seemed worth it, and the pain began to cloud his judgment, and the serum worked its magic.

He was on the verge of breaking mentally, but smirked. "You won't find him in the city… He's going straight to your so-called… Salvation..." That's all he can say.

Irad raised a brow, and would think, "Salvation… Where have I…?" He would then widen his eyes, "Wait, Ironwood spoke about this while I was alone with him… Wait… Amity Arena… Oh shit."

He'd then turn off the machine, making Tyrian gasp out, and slowly knock out of consciousness. The man would collect the items, and Irad said, "Give me the emergency medical paste equipment, and get me a ride to Amity Arena, ASAP!" Irad ordered, and the suited man obliged.

He would hurry his way there, and entered the already turned on arena, with all the platforms already activated. He managed to see Ironwood carrying Authur in one hand over an edge of a pool of lava below them. "I will sacrifice… Whatever it takes… To stop her..."

"Oh… I hope you do, James..." Authur would spit some blood from the side. "I hope you do..."

And then Ironwood would then headbutt him hard enough to knock him out. Irad would notice Ironwood's right arm looks red, almost skinless.

Irad would sprout wings and fly up and land beside Ironwood, "You better not be dropping my lead on finding the damn sons-of-bitches."

"I… Knew he would focus on our trump card..." He would breathe in and out, seething in pain.

"He knows just about everything at our disposal. He even built pieces of this back then. If he had control of the Amity Tower, we'd lose our best shot at defeating Salem."

Irad hums, "Well… There is much to do. Soon I'll have Arthur singing just like Tyrian, and get the location of Evernight Castle. Then, I will inform you on our next plan… I'll be giving you medical aid to heal your arm, it should look good as new after… Although, Ironwood… I have informed you on the existence of different timelines… So far you have proven to be a good ally to have… In the timeline I've seen, you have betrayed RWBY, and have gone mad, your actions taking many lives… Now that Beacon is still standing within this timeline, you seem to be in far better shape, and I've taken a liking to you… So I warn you- don't make any rash decisions while we go into the endgame… Otherwise…" He looks to Ironwood with a dark glare, "I won't hesitate to take you out myself… Something I really don't want to do, but I am willing."

He would glare at him for a bit, then sigh. "Honesty. That's something I will take over any lie. I've been trusting you and Team RWBY for a while now. Let's make sure both of us don't regret it. For Atlas's sake."

"No… Not just for Atlas… But for your realm as a whole's sake; for all kingdoms alike, who are threatened by not only Salem, but the demon as well. We fail, this world dies, and so many others. But I trust you'll make the right decision, knowing this information." Irad states, as his soldiers take Arthur into custody. He nods to what he said. But now he was just tired after a long and hard fight. But at least content that they captured one of the biggest threats to their plans.

Meanwhile back in an underground lab where the machine carrying Aiden and Nightnaratack is, both pods still have smoke within them… Although in the pod Aiden is in, something stirs beneath… And soon, red gleaming eyes would open, and a laugh would ring out, before it would go silent once more.

Blake was recuperating with her friends, and she felt her heart sink… Aiden… She could feel that something happened. It was then Weiss got off her watch after speaking to one of Irad's men,

"I've been informed that Arthur has been taken in… Irad is going to pry the information out of him, as he did Tyrian…" Weiss informs. Weiss was happy, although she notices Blake looks very concerned. "Blake? Is something wrong?"

"I.. I felt something. Something bad happened..." She placed her hand on her chest, and felt her heart pounding.

Weiss was confused. "What? What is it?"

Blake struggles to figure it out. "I… I don't know… Irad. I need to go find Irad!" She runs off.

"Blake, wait!" Weiss follows, much to Ruby and Yang's confusion.

Back with Irad, it has been 30 minutes since after his apprehension, and Arthur is gritting his teeth and sweating profusely, with Irad sitting back, smug,

"Cmon, we can end this if you just… Tell me the location of Evernight Castle. Very easy."

Arthur yelled out, as Irad turned up the dial to level 5, and Arthur broke.

"Fine! If you want it so badly… To the Land of Darkness, to the west, behind the mountain range…" Irad would point at certain points to the map, and Arthur nodded to one location Irad pointed to. "Not that it matters..." He chuckles a little. "Cause she is coming after you… And she won't be alone..."

Irad rises, satisfied, "And we'll be ready for her. We'll be taking the battle right at her doorstep… And thanks to you, sooner than she can react. The armies of the world shall eradicate her and the grimm off the face of the earth… Even that barrier won't protect her for long… And you? I'll be sure you get what's coming to you…"

He would growl in anger. "I don't deserve this!"

"Says the man who has caused much pain and suffering, taking innocent lives, while working with a psychotic maniac which craves blood… Yeah, I know who you are. You will learn your actions have consequences… For now… Get comfy in your cell." He says, leaving and slamming the door, as the suited man cleans everything up. Irad is walking, and turns off his voice recorder. He'd then run into Blake. Irad notices Blake's distress,

"What is going on?"

"I… I felt something was wrong. It's Aiden. I can feel it. You said we had a connection right?" Blake said in a desperate tone.

Irad nods, "I suppose, yes… If what you say is true… Then it's all the more to go all in with our cards…" Blake seemed to be anxious, but what Irad said next, made her very happy,

"We have the location of the castle where Salem and the demon lurk. I did some 'convincing', and I'll be setting up the armies of Remnant to prepare an assault on Evernight Castle… The endgame is here." Weiss and Blake couldn't help but feel the weight of this moment. Where they witness what could be the final fight against Salem, and possibly end the Grimm threat that was prominent for their lives.

"We rest, this night… But on the 'marrow, prepare yourselves… From what Blake has said, we will need Ruby's eyes. For what, we will find out." Irad states, beginning to walk away. Weiss would then speak,

"Hey wait- Irad, your injury."

Irad raises a brow, then looks to his stomach, then responds, "Oh… On my way to apprehend Arthur, I removed the stitches that were put on; which, might I say, hurt like a motherfucker, and I put special medical paste that acts like stitches, but can heal my wounds at a faster rate. By the morning it should be sealed, but still a bit prevalent… Either way, I'll be fine."

Weiss would show worry, then decides on something. "Let me sleep in your room." This causes Blake to flinch.

Irad would perk up at this and blush,

"Y-You don't n-need to, Weiss… I-I'll be-"

"I don't wanna hear it, I want to make sure you are fine, and I don't want to leave your side… Please." She said, putting a hand on his shoulder and looking into his eyes, and he'd stand there for a moment, contemplating, before sighing,

"Ok… Ok, I understand… You can sleep in my room." He says, giving in.

This leaves Blake bewildered for a bit. She knows they are in a relationship, but not this deep. She shakes her head, trying not to think too deep into it.

Later on at night, JNPR, SSN, Ruby, and Yang were in JNPR's room, "So you really think it's going to be over?" Yang asks.

'Hm? What do you mean?" Ruby asks.

Yang explains. "Irad said we were going to end Salem after this. She controlled the Grimm. You think it'll… You know… Change everything?" Ruby thinks about it. Grimm has been a big part of their lives for a long time. She personally can't imagine a life without them. It'd be better no doubt, but what would happen to the Academies or the Huntsman and Huntresses? Whatever the case, she knew the only thing she had to do was move on. If it meant saving the lives of millions, she would do her best, and so would everyone. The world is counting on them to save them from the grimm, and from what Irad mentioned, many other worlds are depending on them. She would feel determination to achieve her original goals. Hunters and Huntresses around, she understood, will band together to finally rid Remnant of the darkness that has plagued them for so long: the same darkness that had taken her mother. In that moment she felt proud of herself for how far she has come, the people she has met, and the things she has seen… She will fight for her friends- no… Her family. And she will fight to save the world, and many others. Her thoughts drift to Aiden, and she thought of how proud he would be… She hoped they could help Aiden come back to them… And she held onto this hope.

Sun would suddenly speak, "Eh. I don't mind that. They were nothing but trouble. I know I'm good to go once we take the Grimm out of the equation."

Neptune sways his combed hair. "Yeah. I know I'm starting the biggest party once we win."

"IF- we win." Ren corrects.

Pyrrha would then add on, "With Irad and his forces' help, we have a strong possibility. But it falls on us to make it happen."

"YEAH!" Nora cheers. Her jumping around would have Scarlet move away to avoid contact with the very excitable Nora while he is cleaning his blade. Soon they would all separate, and go to their respective rooms. As she preps for bed, Ruby would notice her scroll ringing, and sees that it's Irad calling

"Irad?" Ruby asks,

"Ruby… It's good to see you… I take it, you're ready?"

Irad seemed to be in just his collared shirt that's always underneath his cloak, from what Ruby can see, and he seemed to be in a hotel room.

"Yep! We're all ready!" She then yawned. "After a good sleep..."

Irad nods, "Alright… Well I have Weiss with me tonight… And I'll give her your regards… Although Ruby, I'm gonna depend on you tomorrow. Your silver eyes will be used to reveal the barrier, and break it. Once we do, it's gonna all go to hell… Are you sure you are ready…?"

She was silent for a bit, but gives her response. "I am."

Irad nods, "Good… Get some good rest, you'll need it. Lots of grimm to kill tomorrow."

Ruby nods, "Yeah…"

Irad would be silent, before saying, "Your mother would be proud of you…" At this, Ruby was touched, and gave him a warm smile.

"Goodnight, Irad." Ruby said, and he replied with a goodnight of his own, and they would hang looks down and sighs, before going to bed. Back with Irad, he gets up from the hotel room desk with a grunt, going to the mirror. He undoes his button-up collared shirt and inspects his wounds. The bullet wound seems to have healed almost fully thanks to the paste, but the stomach wound still seemed to be a bit red, but luckily no bleeding.

"Yep- that's a scar…" Irad says with a huff. Moments later, Irad hears the door to the bathroom open. The bathroom was steamy due to Weiss being in the shower. Weiss steps out in her pajamas, and Irad looks at her stunned, and blushing. Weiss looked at him and also blushed a bit, her seeing his shirtless form. They remained silent as they stared, then Weiss spoke up,

"A-are you just gonna stand there?" Weiss said, trying to sound annoyed, and Irad replied,

"I-I'm sorry I… You look so beautiful with your hair down…" He stated, catching Weiss off guard.

Weiss would flinch a bit, then smiles at his comment. "You never cease to amaze me."

He smiles, and stands near the couch, "Um… I can take the couch if you want. I don't mind." He offers, a bit concerned that she would feel uncomfortable sharing the bed with him.

She would shake her head and walk up to him. "Someone of your stature is above that. Come here." She pulls him towards the bed.

Irad follows, and lays on the bed. He exhales, a bit beat from a long day.

Weiss would lay next to him. "Don't get the wrong idea. We are still way too early for anything… Too adult. So don't get any bright ideas. My charity can go only so far." She would point at his nose.

Irad would laugh, "Why, I'm hurt you would even assume such a thing!" They both laugh, and Irad shifts his body to face Weiss, "I can still get used to this though…" He holds her hand, caressing his thumb on it, silent for a long moment, before saying, "When I got hurt… Sure I was worried for Robyn, and trying to help this world… But… You know what I was really thinking?" He asks Weiss, and she would raise a brow, "I was thinking that if I went… I wouldn't be able to see you smile… That I wouldn't be able to share my life with you… Laugh with you, cry with you… So much- with you. My future… All I see is you." He smiles, looking to the side, then continues, "For the longest time I've felt… Alone. Isolated… I had nothing to lose, just build up my supremacy, help some worlds and bring 'em in, then said and done, live out my days somewhere private and that'd be that, and if I died before then, I'd have contingencies.… But the more we talked… The more I got to know you on a personal level… I suddenly have something to lose… And now here we are, the biggest fight of our lives yet to come." He states, thinking out loud, "To me, it's a bit scary, thinking about it… But it at least gives me drive to actually make it through."

Weiss would be in shock of his words resonating with her heart, and she smiles. "You always get hung up on such things. But… That's what I like about you. You're not like anyone I've ever met."

He smiles, "I try to just be myself… I'm not the brightest, nor the strongest, but I do my best… I'm just lucky God gifted me with such a wonderful woman like yourself... You've changed my life in more ways than you know… But always remember, that I'll always be with you…" He puts his forehead against hers, silent for another long moment, as his words sank into Weiss, and her heart fluttered with joy, before Irad continued, "When this is all over… There's an important question that I want to ask you… But you'll have to promise me you'll make it out, as I will for you… Will you do that?" Irad asked, their foreheads still touching, but Irad looked deep into Weiss' eyes, waiting for an answer. As Weiss looked into his teal eyes, she fell even more in love than before, his sweet words melting her heart as he always does. He was always so gentle, and had such a good heart. Without thinking, she cuddles and hums on his chest. With just them, and in one space that is Irad's bed, she couldn't help it.

Irad holds her tight, chuckling, "I'll take that as a yes." He says, leaving a kiss on her forehead, "Goodnight my little Snowflake... I love you... From now, and forever..." He states, using his magic to cover them in the blanket, as they drift off to sleep together in their embrace.

At Evernight Castle, there is a meeting with Salem's inner circle.

"Those rats Arthur and Tyrian ratted us out!"

"Only a matter of time before they find us!"

"Maybe we can run away!"

"We can't, we would lose everything, and that Irad would track us down!"

Comments like these echoed through the room, as Salem's inner circle began to grow tense, and Salem demanded,

"ORDER!" She exclaims in a loud voice, hushing everyone in the room.

"Those fools think they have the upperhand. But they forget… I am eternal!" She declares. Out of desperation, she shouts out that she is not afraid of mortals.

"Well that "Irad" is a more formidable foe than we think! When he gets here... We're all doomed!" One of them exclaimed,

"Our plans will be foiled, and we will all be imprisoned..." Another said

"Have you seen his army?! it's more advanced than our army by a long shot, or any army of this realm! I heard he's amassing every army of Remnant and marching here!"

The room began to grow more hectic.

Salem tried to remain strong, but she could sense that everything wasn't going as planned, and at that point, it seemed like mayhaps she could very well lose... Until...

"LET. THEM. COME." A dark voice boomed, as the doors slammed open, and dark fog spread on the floor in the room, instilling fear on the other members. The cloaked figure slowly walked, his aura being of pure dark and malice... He snickered, looking at each of them, "You cowards think this is over? Now... Have you forgotten the strides we've taken?" He laughs, "No... No, we are not done yet. We have a few more pieces to our disposal…" He removed his hood, to reveal Aiden... But... He looked more like Nightmaratack, and taller. His nails were dark, horns stuck out from his forehead, and his veins black, and his eyes were red, "Salem... When they come here, we shall claim our victory. They wish to fight us? Let them." He stood tall, his smile ever so menacing, even the people of the inner circle seemed to cower in fear of this being.

"I, the demon, Nightmaratack, have arisen full, ONCE MORE!" He raises his hand and releases dark energy, and laughs, before offering a hand, "Come, Lady Salem! Let me enlighten you on my true power! Let us plan the demise of all those who oppose us, and reshape the world! They think they have won by finding us, but it will be them cowering at our feets!"

She is rather amused to see him be this boisterous. With a smile, she nods. Salem couldn't help but begin to laugh evilly alongside the demon, as the circle only looked between them with fear, as their laughs grew louder and louder.