Most of the operation was done in Winter Schnee's airship. After leaving Shion, the operation had been meticulously planned over the past two months, with Jaune Arc and Winter at the helm. Their base of operations, the airship, hovered over Mistral, a strategic vantage point that allowed them to coordinate with the Mistral authorities and local Huntsmen seamlessly. They did want to stay in Mistral, to stay close with the villagers, but it was too dangerous. Too many eyes. Too many ears might be listening. They also had too little time to attend to them with the plan going on.

"Are we clear on the extraction points?" Winter's voice was crisp, her blue eyes scanning the holographic map of Mistral.

Jaune nodded, his expression determined. "All named associates of Raven Branwen have been identified and are being pulled off the streets as we speak."

Winter tapped a location on the map, Kuchinashi city. "The deal with the Taskmaster has provided us with invaluable information. In exchange for intel on the political situations in Menagerie and Atlas, they've given us everything we need to corner Branwen's associates."

Jaune's brows furrowed. "Let's hope it's enough. Raven's associates are slippery, but we'll find them one by one."

A month after the attack in Shion, they've gathered enough evidence. It was time to show the world what they've accomplished.

The operation unfolded with military precision. Mistral's bustling streets were suddenly swarmed with Huntsmen and local law enforcement. Named associates of Raven Branwen, one by one, were apprehended and taken into custody. The coordinated effort was a testament to the thorough planning and the effective use of intelligence gathered from various sources, primarily the Taskmaster's network.

Winter oversaw the entire process from the command center within her airship, issuing orders and monitoring the progress. Jaune, on the other hand, was on the ground, ensuring that every step of the plan was executed flawlessly.

"Team Alpha, proceed to sector four. Confirm the targets and await further instructions," Jaune's voice crackled through the earpiece.

"Copy that, Sir," came the reply, and Jaune moved to the next sector, his eyes scanning for any signs of trouble.

The operation continued smoothly, and after three weeks of nonstop operation in Anima, all of Raven's known associates in Mistral had been apprehended.

Now, it was time to shame them.

The conference room in Mistral City was packed with reporters, government officials, and Huntsmen. The air was thick with curiosity and anticipation. Jaune Arc, dressed in a sharp suit and yellow tie, walked confidently to the podium. Cameras flashed, and murmurs rippled through the crowd.

Jaune cleared his throat, his voice steady as he began his speech. "Ladies and gentlemen, today marks a significant victory in our fight against criminal elements within our society. Over the past months, we have systematically dismantled the network of one of the most notorious bandits, Raven Branwen, who we believe are using this network to plan her raids."

He paused, letting the weight of his words settle over the audience. "Our operation was successful thanks to the combined efforts of Mistral's authorities, local Huntsmen, and the invaluable intelligence provided by our contacts, who must remain anonymous for their own safety."

Jaune gestured to a series of images projected onto the screen behind him. "Here, you can see the captured associates of Raven Branwen. Each one of them played a crucial role in her network, and their apprehension marks a significant blow to her ability to conduct raids in the settlements of Mistral."

The crowd murmured, impressed by the comprehensive display of captured individuals. Jaune took a deep breath, knowing the next part of his speech would be even more impactful.

The lights dimmed, and a single image appeared on the screen. Raven Branwen, donning a White Fang mask and pictures of her during one of their raids.

Gasps echoed through the room. Jaune continued, his voice unwavering. "Raven Branwen, once a student at Beacon, as you know, has been revealed to have ties with the White Fang. This image, along with other evidence, shows her deep involvement with this terrorist organization. We truly believe that she's a member of the White Fang and has been conducting this raid, destabilize Anima and disrupt Atlas's ties with Mistral."

He allowed the revelation to sink in before continuing. "It is unthinkable that someone like her still holds a Huntsman License. This is a failure by Vale's authorities to protect the integrity of Huntsmen and Huntresses."

Jaune's criticism was sharp, but necessary. "We must hold our institutions accountable. Allowing someone like Raven Branwen to operate freely not only endangers the lives of innocent people but also tarnishes the honor and responsibility that comes with being a Huntsman."

Jaune then called for for action. "So I must insist that let this be a reminder to all of us. We must remain vigilant and ensure that our ranks are free of corruption and criminal influence. The capture of Raven Branwen's associates is just the beginning. We will root out those who seek to undermine the people's safety and their way of life."

As Jaune stepped down from the podium, the room erupted in applause. Winter, watching from the sidelines, gave him a nod of approval. Reporters, eager to get their stories, waved their hands and shouted inquiries. Jaune raised a hand, signaling for silence. He knew this part of the job was crucial — addressing the public and maintaining transparency.

"Mr. Arc, over here!" a reporter from the Mistral Times called out. "What are your thoughts on Team STRQ, given Raven Branwen's history with them?"

Jaune took a deep breath, choosing his words carefully. "Team STRQ is composed of legendary Huntsmen. Their contributions to our world are invaluable, and their bravery is unquestionable. However, it's important to recognize that sometimes, even the best among us can lose their way."

He paused, allowing his words to resonate. "Raven Branwen's actions are a stark reminder of this. Her betrayal and alignment with the White Fang are a severe deviation from the path of honor and duty that Huntsmen are supposed to follow. Perhaps she herself had started her betrayal early. Twisted into a fanatical belief."

Another reporter, this one from Atlas News Network, seized the opportunity. "Are you suggesting that one of her teammates' death was because of someone's negligence?"

Jaune's eyes narrowed slightly. "Perhaps. I believe the person in question's tragic demise left a void in the Huntsman community, and the circumstances of her death are troubling and unclear. But we must consider that there may have been a lapse in responsibility — someone who should have been there to protect her but failed to do so. Considering Raven Branwen's cowardly, pathetic behavior as a mother and a person with disregard for the law. Are we really surprised that she would stoop so low?"

The room fell into a hushed silence, reporters scribbling furiously. Jaune's implication was clear, but he didn't name names, allowing the audience to draw their conclusions.

A reporter from Vale, her badge displaying the logo of the Vale Daily Herald, stood up. "Mr. Arc, in one of your interviews, you're calling for Vale Huntsmen to do their jobs. Are you implying that they've been negligent?"

Jaune met her gaze evenly. "I believe that a Vale Huntsman should be held accountable by their peers. It is the responsibility of the Huntsmen in Vale to right the wrongs within their jurisdiction. When Beacon almost fell three years ago. They blamed Atlas. But where were they when Huntsmen attacked? Who took the most damage? Who suffered the most and lost lives? It was Atlas. We've been making amends for that mistake and have doubled our efforts. Make no mistake. Vale's Huntsmen are some of the best in Remnant and they too have been instrumental in capturing some of Branwen's associates. But I'm simply wondering why someone like Raven Branwen operates freely. It reflects a failure within our system. It's time for Vale Huntsmen to step up and ensure that their ranks are free of corruption and take care of a problem that Anima has been suffering for."

The reporter nodded, seemingly satisfied with his response. But the questions kept coming.

"What is the plan moving forward?" a junior reporter from the Mistral Gazette asked. "How do you intend to deal with the White Fang and other terrorist organizations?"

Jaune's expression hardened. "The plan is to continue dismantling of the Faunus and Human terrorist organization like the White Fang. Their reign of terror will end, starting with neutralizing one of their most infamous members and being a traitor to society — Raven Branwen."

He leaned forward, his voice resolute. "Her actions in Mistral, raiding villages and causing death and destruction, cannot be tolerated any longer. We will bring her to justice, and this is only the beginning. The White Fang and their supporters will be rooted out, and we will restore peace and safety to our communities."

He scanned the room, putting on a mask of sorrow for the people to look at.

"You may ask me what drove me to decide on this action. I was there when the Argus train was bombed. I was there when Mistral City almost fell. And I was there when the Villages around Anima were attacked. Truth be told, I'm waiting for someone to take over my temporary role. With Mistral City undergoing an effort to rebuild. I should have continued to my original goal." Jaune then gestured to the side of the stage, where an elderly man stood clutching a framed picture. Reporters gathered around Jaune and the Elderly man. "But something changed my mind. That is why I'd like to invite someone who has suffered personally from the actions of the White Fang and Raven Branwen. I want you all to hear him."

The man, frail but determined, stepped forward, his hands trembling slightly as he held up the picture of his family. "This is my family," he began, his voice breaking. "They were taken from me during one of Raven Branwen's raids. My wife, my children... all gone."

Tears streamed down his face, and he choked back a sob. "The White Fang and Raven Branwen have destroyed everything I loved."

Jaune placed a comforting hand on the man's shoulder, allowing him to continue. "I asked Mr. Arc if he could help us. But we know we're powerless, but Mr. Arc listened to us. That we want justice. I want justice. We want to see those responsible held accountable. And most of all, we want Raven Branwen to pay for what she's done."

The room was silent, the weight of the man's words hanging heavily in the air. Jaune turned back to the reporters, his expression grim. "This is why we fight. Here is why I act on this! This is why we cannot rest until the White Fang and those like Raven Branwen are brought to justice. We owe it to the victims, to their families, and to all the innocent lives affected by their actions. If no one steps up, then are we supposed to let her terrorize Anima? Let her attract Grimm? Ruin homes and separate families? I don't think so."

The elderly man was led away. Jaune faced the reporters one last time with a righteous face. "Our mission is clear. We will not stop until every terrorist cell belonging to the White Fang is dismantled, and every person responsible for these heinous acts is brought to justice. We stand united in this cause, and we will prevail."

Jaune declared firmly.

As Jaune exited the conference room, the noise of clicking cameras and murmuring reporters faded behind him. The corridor outside was a stark contrast to the chaotic press room, its quietness almost unsettling. Winter Schnee was waiting for him, her expression inscrutable.

"Well," Winter began, her voice low and measured, "you certainly didn't hold back in there. You pretty much insulted everything Raven Branwen holds dear."

Jaune nodded, running a hand through his white-streaked hair. "It had to be done. She's a menace, Ma'am. The world needs to see her for what she truly is — a terrible team member, a negligent mother, and a rotten person to the core."

Winter's eyes narrowed slightly. "You didn't just dismantle her reputation. You annihilated it. From the interviews to your speech at the podium, you left no room for her to defend herself."

Jaune sighed, leaning against the wall. "Raven's actions left us no choice. She's done too much harm to be left alone."

As they walked down the corridor towards the elevator, Winter kept her gaze on Jaune. "But you've made her out to be more than just a criminal. You've painted her as a failure in every aspect of her life. That was deliberate, wasn't it?"

Jaune nodded again. "Absolutely. Raven's reputation as a fierce warrior, a mother, and a Huntsman must have shielded her for too long. By exposing her flaws and failures, we strip away that shield."

Winter crossed her arms, her heels clicking sharply on the polished floor. "You've also risked making powerful enemies. Raven still has allies, even if they're not many. You might have to watch your back."

Jaune's expression hardened. "I'm prepared for that. But even if she doesn't show up. If she's too much of a coward to show her face. At least we captured most of her tribe members. Those who are with her are still around, but we at least got rid of the snakes that are spying for her. Crippling their method to report to her and conduct raids was my main focu after all."

The elevator doors slid open with a soft chime, and they stepped inside. Winter pressed the button for the rooftop and the elevator began its smooth ascent.

"Do you think the public will believe everything you said?" Winter asked, her tone thoughtful.

"They have to," Jaune replied. "We presented evidence, witnesses, and testimonies. But more importantly, we appealed to their sense of justice. People are tired of living in fear of the White Fang and their ilk. They want to see the bad guys brought to justice, and they want to know that those in power are doing their job."

Winter gave a slight nod. "It's true. Fear is a powerful motivator. And Raven's actions have certainly given people enough reason to fear and hate her… you've made a villain of her, truly."

Jaune kept quiet as he boarded the airship to Winter's airship.

The command deck of Winter's airship was a hive of activity. Operators and officers moved about, monitoring various systems and communications. Jaune and Winter were greeted with respectful nods as they entered.

Winter led Jaune to a secluded corner of the deck, where they could speak privately. "So, what's our next move?" she asked.

Jaune took a moment to collect his thoughts. The momentum must be maintained. We've dealt a significant blow to Raven's network, but we can't let up. We need to continue working with the Mistral authorities and local Huntsmen to dismantle the remaining cells of her tribe."

Winter raised an eyebrow. "And what about Raven herself? She won't take this lying down. She'll come after us sooner or later."

Jaune's expression was resolute. "Let her come. That's what this is for, after all."

Winter looked at her Scroll. "The General wants to talk you now."

With a nod, Jaune walked briskly down the metallic corridors of Winter Schnee's airship, his footsteps echoing softly against the steel floors. He was surprised that the General only wanted to hear now after they were done. Jaune knew it wouldn't be a simple debriefing. The airship's command center buzzed with activity, a stark contrast to the tense silence in Jaune's mind as he approached the secure communication room.

As the doors slid open, Jaune took a deep breath and stepped inside. The room was dimly lit, a large holographic screen dominating the far wall. He took a seat and initiated the secure connection. Within moments, General James Ironwood's stern visage filled the screen. His eyes seemed to scrutinize Jaune.

"Mr. Arc," Ironwood began, his voice steady but carrying an edge of concern, "I've been monitoring your recent operations in Mistral closely. Your efforts have been commendable, but I need to understand your intentions more clearly. What exactly are you trying to achieve?"

Jaune met Ironwood's gaze with unwavering resolve. "General, the situation in Mistral was spiraling out of control. Someone had to step up and bring order. The apprehension of Raven Branwen's associates was a necessary step to stabilize the region and protect innocent lives."

A scheming voice in the back of Jaune's mind whispered insidiously, "Insist that this was for the sake of stabilizing Anima and nothing more and nothing else. Remember, he is part of the Wizard's, circle. And he must know that she's a Maiden too"

Jaune nodded subtly, reinforcing his stance. "Stabilizing Anima is our primary goal. The chaos caused by Raven and her associates has been detrimental to the region's security and wellbeing."

Ironwood leaned forward, his expression hardening. "You're a mediator, Mr. Arc. That is your role. Involvement in local Huntsmen affairs to such an extent was not part of your initial mandate. Why take on such responsibility?"

Jaune's eyes narrowed slightly. "General, I didn't want to be involved in Mistral's affairs initially. But no one else was stepping up to lead the Huntsmen here. Specialist Schnee held duties that did not allow her to act upon the role. And without a unified front, Mistral would have remained vulnerable. As the acting leader, it became my duty to protect the people and ensure their safety with none taking the role."

Ironwood's eyes softened for a moment, but his tone remained firm. "You've taken significant steps, Jaune. But I have to question your methods. I've received intelligence reports that you've known about the Aura Transfer Machine. A highly confidential information. How did you come to know of this technology?"

The scheming voice hissed again, "Compose yourself."

Jaune straightened his yellow tie, his expression carefully neutral. "I learned about the Aura Transfer Machine by chance, General. It was a tool that could have been used, but Dr. Polendina made it clear to me to use it as a tool to capture someone with a Semblance like Raven Branwen was impossible. Forgive me, it was an opportunity I couldn't afford to overlook."

Ironwood's gaze remained piercing, searching for any sign of deception. "I see. But you must understand the gravity of using such technology. There are risks involved, and it's crucial that we maintain control and oversight."

Jaune leaned forward, his tone earnest. "Be rest assured, General, I'm fully aware of the risks. But my priority is helping the people of Mistral. They need stability and security, and we're doing everything in our power to provide that."

The scheming voice whispered once more, "You need to tell him if Mistral continues to be unstable, then they'd have no place to strategically use to stop Menagerie if they decide to attack Atlas after their civil war."

Jaune's expression turned serious as he continued. "If Mistral remains unstable, General, it could have far-reaching consequences. Menagerie's civil war is a significant threat, and if they decide to attack Atlas, we'd need a stable Mistral as a strategic point. We cannot afford to let this region fall into chaos further. That was the job after all."

Ironwood considered Jaune's words carefully, his brows furrowing in thought. After a moment, he nodded slowly. "You make a valid point, Mr. Arc. The strategic importance of Mistral cannot be underestimated. However, any further actions must be coordinated with me. We need to ensure that our efforts are aligned and that we maintain a unified front."

Jaune nodded in agreement, leaned forward, and ended the call. The screen went dark, and the room was once again silent, save for the faint hum of the airship's engines.

"Guess he's noticing us now that a Maiden is involved," the rusty voice whispered.

Jaune leaned back in his chair, closing his eyes for a moment as he let out a long breath.

His thoughts turned to Raven Branwen. The bait had been set, and it was only a matter of time before she took it. Jaune knew she wouldn't remain in the shadows forever.

She was too proud, too driven by her own twisted sense of honor to ignore the challenge he had laid before her.