Chapter 10: The Tell
"Uhhh..."
Ironwood slowly began to wake up. He could feel a few sharp pains in his back. When he tried to move, the pain became worse. But it slowly began to fade as his Aura began to heal him. "Don't move too much," a female voice said. Ironwood slightly turned his head to see Cara looking at a broken window. "Let your Aura heal you," she said.
"What... What happened?" Ironwood asked slowly.
"We've been ambushed," a male voice said. Ironwood looked to see the Mandalorian leaning against a wall, Cinder kneeling next to him.
"Ambushed? By who?"
"By your own men. By Gideon."
"What?!" Ironwood shot up. Most of the bullet holes had healed, he could move without a lot of pain. But the pain was the last thing on his mind, the Mandalorian's impossible claim had his full attention. "You're lying!"
"See for yourself," said Karga, who was behind a table and pointing at the window.
Ironwood crawled closer to the broken window. He stood up against the wall and looked outside. And sure enough, he could see Gideon standing with a platoon of nearly twenty soldiers, human and Faunus, in black Atlesian armor. All their weapons were still pointed at the building.
"Gideon, what are you-?"
A soldier fired his weapon at the window, cutting Ironwood off.
"Hold your fire!" Gideon said as he pushed the weapon down. "We shouldn't risk the child's safety more than we already have."
"Yes, sir," said the soldier.
Ironwood was dumbfounded by what he had just heard from the Mandalorian. But one of his own soldiers firing at him had struck a nerve. Now the General was mad. "Have you lost your damn minds?!" Ironwood yelled. "I am ordering you to stand down! Do you hear me?! Stand down!"
Ironwood didn't want to risk moving his head towards the broken window. Not that he needed to, his soldiers would immediately surrender once they heard the order.
The laughter he heard said otherwise.
"Did he seriously not get the message?"
"Do we really need to spell it out for you?"
"Your days of looking down on us are over, James!"
"Gideon's in charge now!"
"You had this coming for a long time, General!"
Cara was shocked to hear all this. That Atlas soldiers were willingly turning their backs on Ironwood.
"Wow," she said. "Not gonna lie, if they weren't trying to kill us, they'd probably be my new best friends."
"Not helping," said Djarin.
While the group inside the bar were trying to figure out what to do, Major Gideon was relishing in the loyalty his soldiers had just displayed. And they were right. Ironwood did have this coming.
He had felt this way for a long time. A little while after they enlisted together, actually. Gideon served with James ever since they were cadets. They were the true definitions of soldiers. Gideon's strategies were without flaw, James' unwavering determination and resolve had inspired others. But it all went wrong when his friend was promoted over and over again. Gideon had given everything to the Atlesian military, his friend had seen it as well. But why was he turned down, time after time? It took him years to become a Major, and his friend had already become the General.
What did Ironwood have that he didn't?
Now Gideon may be the jealous type, he did crave the feeling of being a superior officer. But he had noticed how the position James was in had developed an ego. Not that it wasn't inevitable; James had become a giant, sitting on top of everything Atlas had. Technology, fellow soldiers, even Gideon. He had become an ant compared to Ironwood. The power bestowed on Ironwood didn't do Atlas any good either. It only caused James' arrogance to grow by the day. And by extension, an army and government Gideon believed in all his life had begun to crumble.
Ironwood had become unfit to be the General. Gideon knew this to be true. Only he could properly command an army. Unfortunately, everyone disagreed with him.
Everyone... except a few platoons in the army. And a genius Ironwood had ignored countless times.
Now Gideon's moment had come. It was now or never.
"You see, James?" Gideon called out. "These brave men and women, they answer to me now."
"...So why do they want to kill us?!" Ironwood yelled.
"Like I said, you have something I want. I've risked everything with what I've done today. And I'll be damned before I leave empty handed."
"I don't negotiate with traitors!"
"I wasn't only speaking to you, James." Gideon cleared his throat and spoke louder. "I would prefer to avoid any further violence, and encourage a moment of consideration, Mandalorian. Members of my escort have completed assembly of an E-Web heavy repeating cannon." Djarin looked out the window to see two soldiers stepping away from a mounted gun, loaded with various Dust rounds.
Gideon continued his speech. "If you are unfamiliar with this weapon, I am sure the good General and the Atlesian Shock Trooper Carasynthia Dune will advise you that they have witnessed many Grimm vaporize mid-descent facing the predecessor of this particular model."
"..."
Hearing nothing from the bar, Gideon decided to change his tactics. "I advise disgraced Magistrate Greef Karga to search the wisdom of his years and urge you to lay down your arms and come outside. The structure you are trapped in will be razed in short order and your storied lives will come to an unceremonious end."
The strategy proved effective, as cold sweat began to pour down Karga's face. He could surrender and convince his allies to do the same, but he needed to make sure their freedom would be secure.
"What do you propose?" he asked.
"Reasonable negotiation," said Gideon.
"What assurance do you offer?"
"If you're asking if you can trust me... you cannot. Just as you betrayed our business arrangement, I would gladly break any promise and watch you die at my hand. The assurance I give is this: I will act in my own self-interest, which at this time involves your cooperation and benefit. I will give you until nightfall, and then I will have the E-Web cannon open fire. And for good measure, my forces and I will lay siege to the Mandalorian village near Nevarro."
Djarin's head quickly moved to the window. He had heard Gideon correctly; these soldiers had found his home. If they die, his people will be next.
Karga turned to the group. "I say we hear him out."
"The minute we open that door, we're dead," said Cara.
"We're dead if we don't. At least out there we've got a shot."
"That's easy for you to say. I'm an AWOL shock trooper. You know what Atlas does with people like me?"
"She's right," said Ironwood. "Those traitors won't be satisfied until we're all dead."
"To hell with that," said Cara. "I'm shooting my way out."
Karga knew he wouldn't be able to convince the Atlesians. But there was one other person he didn't try. "What about you, Mando?" he asked.
The soft crying everyone heard answered that question. Djarin turned to see tears falling from Cinder's eyes. He knew what she was thinking, he knew how hopeless things seemed to her now. They were so close to reasoning with Ironwood, so close to finally brining her home. All their efforts had just brought them to Gideon and his army.
So Djarin knew what he had to do.
"He won't agree to anything else except having Cinder. I'm not giving her to him."
"We need backup then," said Cara. "Can you call Pietro?"
"I've been trying. He's not responding."
"They might have jammed the link."
"...Or they got him too."
Two speeder bikes were travelling to the city of Nevarro. Mounted on them were two more of Gideon's rogue troopers, one of which was carrying a prisoner in a wagon-like container, which was also powered by Gravity Dust. The two stopped just outside the city as one put a finger on his helmet.
"Speeder bikes have arrived at the checkpoint. Awaiting confirmation."
A voice on his radio responded to him. "Copy that. Did you find anything of value?"
"We have a prisoner who claims to be an Atlesian scientist. Name is Pietro Polendina."
"Stand by."
The radio went silent for a few seconds before the voice came back. "That's a go to proceed with the prisoner, but I advise you to double-check. The Major just touched down and already opened fire on the General."
The second soldier overheard this and looked to his partner, who acknowledged this advice and deactivated his radio. "Did he just say that Gideon shot the General?" he asked.
"Yep," said the first soldier. "About time as well. He had it coming."
"Oh man, Gideon's got balls to do this. If I could just walk up to the General and shoot him in the face, I would be so happy."
"You and me both."
Pietro began to regain consciousness. But the first trooper noticed this and stepped off his bike. "Knock it off!" he said as he punched the scientist.
"You really think we need that guy?" the second trooper asked.
"Uh, I don't know," said the first trooper. "Maybe the Major wants to kill him himself, I don't ask questions."
The two troopers sat on their bikes, bored out their minds. The second one decided to do some target practice, and took out a pistol. Aiming at a can, he fired a green bullet. It made contact with the can and it soared in the air.
"Nice shot," said the first trooper. "That the new Wind Dust ammo?"
"Yeah," said the second trooper, who was smiling. "And it really packs a punch, huh?"
"Not as much as the Mandalorian's ammo."
"True. You know what kind of Dust that is?"
"I'm pretty sure it's Fire Dust. Just, y'know... modified."
"Modified how?"
"Do I look like a scientist? I don't fucking know."
"...Well, could it be his Semblance?"
"No, he can teleport. He can't use it on his gun."
"Oh. Okay."
"...Let me check on this thing. This is crazy." The first trooper put a finger on his radio. "Any update yet?"
"That's a negative," the voice responded. "Still waiting on confirmation. He just killed an officer for interrupting him, so this might take a while."
The trooper sighed in annoyance. This wasn't how he wanted to spend his day. But he didn't have much of a choice. "Thank you. Standing by still."
The second trooper looked back at Pietro. Seeing that he was still breathing, he turned back to his partner. "So... what do you think's gonna happen once we get outta here?"
"I can't say for certain," said the first trooper. "All I know is with Ironwood out of the way, the Council's gonna welcome Gideon with open arms. We're gonna be coming home to a brand new Atlas."
"...You think things will look up for the Faunus there, too?"
"Definitely. Our platoon has more Faunus than the entire army had when Ironwood was pulling the strings." The first trooper walked off his bike and in front of his partner. "We'll be top dogs in Gideon's new order."
"STEP AWAY FROM HIM."
The soldiers turned around and pulled out their weapons. They came face to face with an unarmed droid.
"Identify yourself!" said the first trooper.
"I AM IG-11," the droid responded. "I AM THIS MAN'S SERVICE DROID AND REQUIRE THAT YOU REMAND HIM TO ME IMMEDIATELY."
"A... service droid?" the second trooper said to his partner. "I thought it was a prison guard. Aren't IGs usually prison guards?"
The first guard chuckled before he responded. "Yeah, well, evidently this one's a service droid."
IG-11 approached closer.
"I'm sorry, servant, but you're gonna have to get out of here," said the second trooper as he shot at his foot. IG-11 stopped in his tracks.
"ARE YOU REFUSING MY REQUEST?" IG-11 asked calmly.
"No, I'm telling you to get out of here," said the second trooper.
IG-11 responded by grabbing the trooper's arm and twisting it. The trooper yelled once he felt his arm twist unnaturally. He screamed even louder when IG-11 twisted even further. IG-11 finished him off with a hit to his helmet. He spun his arms to grab the other trooper's helmet. Once he did, IG-11 slammed his head into the ground multiple times.
Once they troopers were dealt with, IG-11 moved to see Pietro looking at him.
"THAT WAS UNPLEASANT," said IG-11. "I'M SORRY YOU HAD TO SEE THAT."
"It's fine," said Pietro. "Thank you for helping me."
Pietro took off his cap and felt his forehead. He could feel blood and a large cut. IG-11 responded by moving his arm and unleashing a soft spray on his head.
"THIS WILL HEAL YOU IN A MATTER OF HOURS," said IG-11. "YOU HAVE SUFFERED DAMAGE TO YOUR CENTRAL PROCESSING UNIT."
Pietro chuckled at IG-11's joke. He was glad he added some programming that allowed him to share humor. As soon as the spray stopped, Pietro stood up. "Who are these men?" he asked. "Are they from Atlas?"
"POSSIBLY," said IG-11. "I INTERCEPTED COMMUNICATIONS THAT CLAIMED THEY HAVE ATTACKED GENERAL IRONWOOD."
Pietro's eyes widened. If that was true, the Mandalorian and his friends were in danger. They needed to help them. So Pietro took out his Scroll and quickly called the Mandalorian.
"Pietro, is that you?" Djarin quickly asked.
"Yes, I'm here," said Pietro. "What's happening?"
"Some of Ironwood's men turned against him and surrounded us. We're in a bar in the center of the town."
"Stay there. I'm sending IG-11 to help." Pietro hung up and pointed to one of the speeder bikes. "Have you ever driven one of those before?"
"THIS IS CORRECT," said IG-11.
"Go and protect Cinder. I can call the proper Atlesian army from the Mandalorian's airship."
"YOU CANNOT DRIVE IN YOUR CONDITION."
"I'll take it slow, but you have to hurry." Pietro walked over to one of the bikes, but struggled to get on. IG-11 walked over and helped him. "Thank you. Now go."
IG-11 walked over to the soldiers and picked up their weapons. He then got on one of the bikes and drove to the city of Nevarro.
Gideon's rogue troopers were still waiting outside the bar, their weapons pointed at the wall. Gideon had stepped aside for the moment, but his troopers remained stationary. The E-Web cannon was unmanned at the moment, but two troopers were at each side. Their orders were clear: wait until nightfall or an attack. Only then were they allowed to kill everyone inside.
But things changed once they heard what sounded like a speeder bike come towards them.
One soldier turned his head to see IG-11 abandon his bike as it crashed into a group of soldiers near a truck. After taking a moment to recover, IG-11 opened fire on his new enemies.
All the soldiers retaliated, but their bullets barely affected the droid. A few Fire Dust bullets made the droid stagger, but the IG unit's attacks were more lethal.
More and more troopers began to fall to the droid's relentless attacks. The two soldiers by the cannon immediately got the same idea. One jumped by the trigger while the other pushed the barrel towards the droid.
Two blasts to their backs prevented them from firing.
When they saw that help had arrived, the group inside the bar came to aid their savior. And they all provided their own retaliation against the rogue troopers.
The Mandalorian was fighting the soldiers hand to hand while using his Amban rifle to hit and electrocute each one.
Cinder was covering the Mandalorian with his blaster, each of her shots hitting their chests.
Cara was using her Dust Repeater to fire various Dust rounds at a group of troopers by a truck. Karga had a rifle and was helping her.
And Ironwood had commandeered the cannon. Rather than shooting it on its stand, the General had picked it up and was firing while moving.
The group was holding their ground remarkably well. Together, they were unstoppable.
That is, until Gideon fired at Ironwood.
His shots merely hit his shoulders, but it had also captured Ironwood's attention. He immediately turned the gun and prepared to fire.
The sight of his friend didn't cause Ironwood to hesitate. He felt betrayed, and he wasn't in the mood to give Gideon a chance to explain himself. All he wanted was to see his former friend defeated.
Gideon felt the same way. He immediately fired at the container of Dust rounds next to the cannon, causing it to explode.
Everyone turned to see Ironwood fly back to the wall. The distraction had unfortunately left themselves open to continued firing from Gideon's troopers.
They had lost their advantage. They needed to get back inside. Cara had pulled Ironwood back into the building. Just as everyone joined her inside, two soldiers with red and black armor holding flamethrowers walked up to Gideon.
"There's too many of them!" said Karga.
"We need a new plan!" said Cara.
Cinder looked out the window to see the incinerator troopers coming closer. An idea suddenly popped into her head. She ran up to Djarin. "Gideon said your people aren't far from here!" she said.
"So?" Djarin asked.
"Do you think you can use your Semblance to take us there?"
Djarin pressed a button on his gauntlet. His Aura was in the orange zone, the explosion had exhausted a decent supply. "...I won't be able to take everyone," he said.
"How many can you take?"
"I can take one person at a time and come back. If we're lucky... three."
The incinerator troopers had arrived outside the door. Their weapons had begun to warm up.
"...I have to take Cinder," Djarin told everyone.
"Okay, that's one," said Karga. "Who else?"
"...He's in no shape to travel," said Cara, who was holding the General. Ironwood's right arm was burnt to a crisp, and there was shrapnel in his leg.
"YOU ALL MUST GO," said IG-11. "I WILL LOOK AFTER THE GENERAL."
"So we're leaving him? I'm good for leaving him," said Karga.
The incinerator troopers activated their weapons. Cinder stood in front of everyone.
"Cinder, wait!" Djarin yelled.
The flames had entered the building. Everyone turned away as they saw the flame come closer and closer.
But nobody felt themselves burn.
They all looked up to see Cinder with extended hands towards the fire. Two bursts of wind were keeping the fire at bay, Cinder was keeping everyone safe.
"Hurry!" said Cinder. "I can't... hold it... forever!"
Djarin grabbed Cara's shoulder and disappeared.
The wind began to die down.
Djarin reappeared and grabbed Karga. They both disappeared.
The flames were coming closer, Cinder's hands began to feel hot.
Djarin reappeared and put his hand on Cinder's shoulder. But before he disappeared, he turned back to IG-11.
"TAKE CARE OF THE CHILD," said IG-11.
"...I will," said Djarin.
The duo disappeared, leaving the flames to cover IG-11. But the fire did not burn the droid. Unfortunately, some of the flames reached Ironwood.
"Aaaaahhhhh!"
IG-11 realized what was happening, and he had to act fast. So he started walking through the fire, making his way to the incinerator troopers. Once he was close, he grabbed their weapons and pulled them out of the troopers grasps. He then swung his arms to knock the soldiers to the ground and stepped on them for good measure.
"Sir, the droid's attacking again," said a Faunus soldier to Gideon. He was looking through a pair of advanced binoculars at the battlefield. He and the Major were far from the conflict.
"Forget the droid," said Gideon. "Focus our efforts on the Mandalorian."
"I don't think we can, sir."
"Why not?"
"The Mandalorian doesn't seem to be inside."
The soldier handed Gideon the binoculars to show him. They were currently set to a thermal visual, they could see what was inside. And just as the soldier had said, the Mandalorian didn't seem to be inside. All he could see was just a wounded Ironwood.
"They may have escaped during their retreat, sir. They could be anywhere," said the Faunus.
"Order everyone to retreat, I know exactly where they are," said Gideon.
"Yes, sir." The soldier ordered everyone to fall back.
Gideon pressed a button on his gauntlet, and a map with a highlighted route appeared. Gideon pressed another button, and the screen showed that the image had been sent to his forces.
"What about the General?" the Faunus asked.
"Leave him to me," said Gideon. "Have my ship prepared."
The Faunus left Gideon alone to deal with Ironwood. And his first step was simply the press of a button.
He could hear his partner's Scroll ring twice before he answered. "This is Watts."
"Doctor Watts, I have some good news."
"Hmm... based on the fact you're calling without your modulator, can I assume the good General is dead?"
"Not yet. I thought you'd like to do the honors."
"Oh you're too kind, Major."
"Are they ready?"
"All four of them are currently waiting to wake up. Just say the word."
"You have my blessing, Watts. Activate the Dark Troopers."
[Play 'Activated-Ludwig Goransson' 0:25-0:41]
Watts pressed a few keys on his computer and turned around.
Steam had begun to appear at the feet of his creations.
Advanced dark armored Atlesian Knights had begun to respond to their new orders.
The lights on their chests had activated.
Their fists clenched.
Their heads moved upright.
Their visual sensors gave off a blood-red light.
The Dark Troopers had come to life.
"Contact."
"How many?"
"Four. I can send a few warning shots."
"Wait. Wait, is that-?"
The guards lowered their weapon and binoculars to see Djarin running towards them with three outsiders.
"Djarin!" the red Mandalorian yelled as the group stopped in front of them. "You're back!"
"And you brought... others?" asked the blue Mandalorian.
"Two outsiders," said Djarin. He pointed to Cinder. "One Foundling."
The guards looked to see Cinder holding her Mythosaur necklace. "You two can enter." said the red Mandalorian. "But your friends must leave."
"We don't mean any harm," Karga said as he raised his hands. "We're here to warn you, to help you."
"We just escaped from a group of rogue Atlas soldiers," said Cara. "They know you're here, they're gonna kill you all."
The guards looked at each other. "Sound the alarm," the blue Mandalorian ordered. The red Mandalorian immediately ran inside and told everyone he saw what was coming.
"Take us to the Armorer," Djarin said to the second guard. She complied and led them all to the Armorer's forgery. The red guard ran out the door, having informed his leader what was happening. He then proceeded to sound the alarm so the entire village could know what was happening.
The group entered the house to see the Armorer at her furnace. She nodded to the blue guard, who left without a word. She looked at Djarin. "You have returned," said the Armorer.
"Yes," said Djarin.
"We have heard of your exploits," she said as she stood up. "Show me the one who's safety deemed such reckless behavior."
Djarin looked at Cinder and nodded. She slowly walked over to the Armorer.
The Armorer looked at Djarin. "This is the one you hunted, then saved?"
Cinder stopped in front of the clan's leader, took a deep breath, and spoke. "Ni cuy' kaysh." (I am her.)
The Armorer titled her head, surprised to hear an outsider speak Mando'a. Cara and Karga turned to each other, not understanding what she said. But they didn't interrupt. "...Gar jorhaa'ir cuun lalat," the Armorer said. (You speak our tongue.)
Cinder took out her necklace and pointed to Djarin. "Jorcu be... Djarin." (Because of Djarin). This was the first day she actually learned his name.
The Armorer looked at her necklace, understanding what it meant. "Meg cuyir gar gai, adiik?" (What is your name, child?)
"Cinder."
The Armorer stopped speaking Mando'a. "I assume you wish to join us, Cinder?"
Cinder's heart began to beat faster, and cold sweat began to form at her forehead. This was it. Her chance had finally come. But would she be accepted? "...I do." she said.
The Armorer looked at Djarin. "Take her to the other Foundlings. They will be hidden away while we defend our home."
Djarin nodded and walked over to Cinder. But she raised her hand just as he took two steps towards her. As he stopped, Cinder closed her eyes. They opened and began to flame. Cinder held her hand in front of the Armorer, which had a small fire. "Let me increase your chances," Cinder said with a smile.
The Armorer looked closer at the fire. "...Very well." She then turned to Djarin. "You require something for the battle. Have you trained in the Rising Phoenix?"
"When I was a boy, yes," said Djarin.
"Then this..." the Armorer knelt down. She came back up with a jetpack. "Will make you complete."
"...Thank you."
Ironwood and IG-11 stepped outside the bar. Ironwood's Aura had begun to recharge and the medical spray IG-11 gave him had made his head feel much better. But his leg was badly injured. He was forced to limp outside.
The town square was littered with debris, broken glass, and bodies. It seemed all that remained of Gideon's troopers had left.
But this wasn't right. According to what these soldiers were saying, Ironwood seemed to be a priority target, along with Cinder and the Mandalorian. So why would they leave?
"IG unit, scan the area for more soldiers," said Ironwood. There was a chance this was a trap, that more troopers were waiting for an opening.
"SCANNING." IG-11's head made two full rotations, scanning for any more soldiers. "NO LIFE FORMS DETECTED."
Ironwood lowered his pistol. "Are you detecting any airships above us?" he asked.
"NEGATIVE," said IG-11.
"It seems we're in the clear." The General placed a finger to his ear. "This is General Ironwood in need of immediate medical assistance. Please respond."
"Hello? I read you, General."
Ironwood recognized the voice, he had met him several times back in Atlas. "Doctor Polendina, is that you?"
"Yes, sir. I'm in the Mandalorian's airship. What's going on down there?"
"Doctor, I need you to listen to me carefully. Major Gideon has gone rogue. I need you to contact the nearest Atlas personnel. Bases, airships, anything. Spread this news and send a medical team here."
"I've just made contact with a base. Judging by their location, an airship should reach you in about ten minutes."
Ironwood deactivated his earpiece and looked at IG-11. "It seems Gideon stopped jamming our signal," he said.
"OR PERHAPS HE WAS NOT JAMMING IT AT ALL," said IG-11.
"Why would he leave us alive?"
"THAT IS UNCERTAIN. PERHAPS HE WISHES TO FOCUS ON-" IG-11 immediately looked to the sky. "HOSTILES DETECTED."
Ironwood looked up but couldn't see anything. "Gideon?" he asked.
"NEGATIVE," said IG-11.
"Grimm?"
"NEGATIVE. I AM DETECTING FOUR NON-LIFE FORMS."
Non-life forms? Ironwood looked to the sky to see what IG-11 was referring to. After a few seconds, he could see four specks in the air flying towards the ground. The specks grew bigger as they approached closer. The duo managed to get a good look once they landed about ten feet in front of them.
[Play 'Dark Trooper Theme' on YouTube]
Four black armored soldiers had just touched down. Ironwood assumed more of Gideon's men had come to finish their work. But when he saw them stand, he could see that their movements were... mechanized. They stood up in sync with each other, and a loud 'buzz' was heard when they pulled out their weapons. These soldiers were droids. And they were prepared to fight.
Ironwood pulled out a revolver from his holster while IG-11 pointed his weapons and fired at the droids. But their bullets merely bounced off the droid's armor. They began to move closer as the duo kept firing. The droids stopped and returned fire, causing the duo to separate for cover.
Two Dark Troopers moved closer to Ironwood while the other two moved to IG-11. The General realized his pistol was useless, so he switched to a new tactic. Grabbing a rock and holding his revolver by the barrel, he swung the end of the gun at one droid and hit the other with his rock. The first trooper was fazed from the attack, but the rock merely crumbled once it made contact with the second droid's metal helmet.
The second trooper grabbed Ironwood by his arm and squeezed. Ironwood dropped his gun and screamed in pain. The Dark Trooper released his arm, but grabbed his neck and lifted him off the ground. The first trooper moved its left fist behind its head and quickly sent a jab to Ironwood's chest. It moved its right fist and sent another jab.
IG-11 continued his attacks by swinging his arms at the troopers and grabbing their limbs. But the Dark Troopers were only fazed momentarily. When IG-11 sent another arm towards his foes, one trooper caught it. IG-11 tried to move, but the grip was as firm as steel. The Dark Trooper threw IG-11 to the side and his arm ripped off. Ironwood was thrown next to him.
The General could barely move. His arm and leg had been destroyed, and he was having trouble breathing. His wounds on his head had opened back up. IG-11 had lost an arm, but he was able to pick the General up and move.
"I... I can't..." Ironwood couldn't even make a complete sentence
"I AM AWARE," said IG-11, knowing Ironwood was referring to how he couldn't fight anymore. IG-11 couldn't fight anymore either, the Dark Troopers were too strong. But he had one last trick up his sleeve.
Or, more accurately, in his chest.
"THEY WILL NOT BE SATISFIED WITH ANYTHING LESS THAN OUR TERMINATION. I BELIEVE MINE IS YOUR ONLY OPTION FOR SURVIVAL."
"What... are you-?"
"I STILL HAVE THE SECURITY PROTOCOLS FROM MY MANUFACTURER. IF MY DESIGNS ARE COMPROMISED, I MUST SELF-DESTRUCT."
"Can't... die... here," Ironwood weakly said.
IG-11 understood his situation. If he activated the bomb in his chest, he could take the Dark Troopers with him. But Ironwood's safety was a factor in this plan. So IG-11 had no choice but to apply cold logic.
"YOUR PEOPLE WILL KNOW THE TRUTH ABOUT YOUR MAJOR'S ACTIONS," said IG-11. "THERE IS A CHANCE OF ESCAPE FOR YOU. IF YOU RUN NOW, I WILL SELF-DESTRUCT. IF NOT, THE DROIDS WILL DESTROY BOTH OF US."
Ironwood understood. This was a "damned if you do, damned if you don't" situation. The explosion could kill him, but so would the droids. But IG-11 was right, his soldiers would know what happened here. Pietro would warn them. So... he had no choice. He made up his mind when he turned to IG-11. "Do it..."
IG-11 stopped moving. He turned back to the Dark Troopers as Ironwood continued to run.
IG-11 had achieved his primary programming. Cinder, Pietro, Ironwood, they would be safe now. There was just one thing left to do.
"MANUFACTURER'S PROTOCOL DICTATES I CANNOT BE CAPTURED."
The bomb in his chest activated.
The Dark Troopers stopped.
"...I MUST BE DESTROYED."
*BOOM*
[End music]
A dozen Mandalorians were on top of the wall, waiting for their enemies to arrive. Everyone else, save for the Armorer, were hiding. The Armorer was kneeling on the ground with a hammer and metal tongs in hand.
The Mandalorians could hear a large truck coming their way, so they immediately hid behind the wall. Just as they did, the truck entered the village square and stopped in front of the Armorer. The door opened and a dozen rogue troopers stepped out.
"Check the perimeter," a trooper said to eight of his troopers.
As they troopers checked the village, the remaining four walked over to the Armorer.
"Hey. Mando," said the first trooper. "Where are they?"
"..."
The soldier was getting impatient. He gently hit her helmet with his weapon and asked his question again.
The Armorer suddenly swung her hammer at his rifle, causing it to fire away from her. She got on her felt and continued to hit other rifles as they fired, their shots barely missing her.
The other soldiers heard the commotion and suddenly ran back to help their colleagues. But once they did, other Mandalorians sprang from their hiding places, either shooting the rogue troopers or using hand to hand against them.
The Armorer made quick work of the troopers, smashing their helmets and injuring their arms with her tools.
The driver of the truck saw what was happening and slammed his foot on the gas pedal. Driving with the intent to run over the Armorer, he failed to notice a fireball hit one of his tires. The vehicle swerved away from the Armorer and hit a brick house.
The other Mandalorians, along with Karga and Cara, rushed over to the truck to see if there were any others hiding in there. Just as they did, another truck came into the village. But this time, it was accompanied by a Manta that fired a rain of bullets and a missile straight towards them. The missile hit the crashed truck and it exploded, causing the surrounding Mandalorians to fly backwards.
Djarin got on his feet and looked at the incoming soldiers. Before he could do anything, he heard the airship make its way back.
"He missed us!" said Karga, who was referring to the four of them.
"He won't next time," said Djarin.
"Our weapons are useless against a Manta!" said Cara.
"Hey, let's make the kid do the magic wind thing!" Karga suggested.
"..."
Not waiting for an approval, Karga turned to Cinder. "Hey kid! Do the magic wind thing!"
Cinder moved her hands, understanding what Karga wanted her to do. But when her wind powers activated, she could only move two feet off the ground.
"I'm out of ideas," Karga said, realizing she couldn't fly to the Manta.
"I'm not," said Djarin. He handed Cinder his blaster. "Focus on the soldiers." Cinder nodded and ran towards them. Djarin turned to Karga and Cara. "Take care of her."
"What are you gonna do?" Cara asked.
"I don't know, but wish me luck!" Djarin said as he took off running.
Major Gideon was watching the situation unfold before him. From the Manta, he could see his troopers fighting dozens of Mandalorians. Some of the Mandalorians had fallen, but the number of dead rogue troopers far outweighed the Mandalorians. So Gideon knew he had to change the odds in his favor, which is why he had to use the only Manta he brought.
"Major Gideon, we have eyes on the asset," said one of the pilots.
"And the bounty hunter who stole her," the other pilot said.
Gideon looked down and could see the Mandalorian running towards them, unarmed. While the pilots laughed at this, Gideon knew better. The Mandalorian was no fool, he had a plan of sorts. He needed to be dealt with.
"Concentrate fire on the Mandalorian," Gideon ordered.
"Yes, sir."
The first pilot aimed down and fired more Dust rounds at the Mandalorian. But just before they reached his feet, the Mandalorian flew into the air and narrowly missed the airship.
All three looked to the left to see the Mandalorian disappear. But then the ship slightly moved in an unnatural way.
"Major, we're experiencing some drag," said the first pilot.
"It's him," said Gideon. "Open the left side door."
The pilot obeyed and Gideon walked to the open door. He could see the Mandalorian hanging on the left wing, vulnerable to attack. So Gideon took the opportunity to fire multiple Lightning Dust rounds at the Mandalorian. He let go, but suddenly disappeared. Gideon immediately realized the Mandalorian used his Semblance, and had a hunch as to where he went.
He ducked just in time to avoid a fist to the back of his head. Gideon turned around and grabbed the Mandalorian's throat. Knowing he couldn't choke his enemy to death, the Major threw him outside the ship.
"Shut the door!" Gideon yelled.
The door closed and the Mandalorian continued to fall.
"Major Gideon, are you alright?" the first pilot asked.
"I'm fine," Gideon replied. He noticed that the ship had avoided attacking the village in the confusion. "Make another pass. Concentrate on-"
A soft beeping cut him off. He looked down and could see two small flashing devices on the back of the second pilot's seat.
He immediately knew what they were.
"No!"
*BOOM*
The Mandalorians got straight to work after Gideon's ship was destroyed. The Foundlings were safely returned, the wounded were being treated... and the dead would be given a proper burial the next day. The bodies of Gideon's soldiers were burned in a bonfire in the center of the village. Cinder had created the fire, Djarin and a few others were taking care of the bodies.
"That's the last of them." Djarin said as two Mandalorians threw one last body in the fire.
Cinder walked up to him. "Are you alright? You should get your wounds checked out."
"I'll be fine," Djarin replied.
"So… what happens now?"
"It seems everything's under control. We can go to the Armorer now."
A wide smile came to Cinder's face. The running was over. The fighting was over. Now she can do what she had been trained to do. What she was born to do. But a doubt found its way to Cinder's mind. So she asked a question.
"Do you... think I'm ready? That she'll accept me?"
Djarin kneeled to her level. "Cinder, I've lived here a long time. I've watched other Foundlings train, grow, and learn. They were ready to be like me by the time they turned eighteen." He then took Cinder's Mythosaur necklace and showed it to her. "But look at yourself, Cinder. You're only ten years old and you can do more than what Foundlings your age can do. You speak Mando'a, you proved your mettle to everyone here... and you've been braver than most." Cinder smiled again. "I don't think you're ready. I know you are."
Cinder nodded and hugged Djarin. Before he could hug her back, he heard someone call his name. He looked up to see an orange and white Mandalorian walk up to them.
"Sun," Djarin greeted his friend and shook his hand. "Good to see you."
"You as well," said Sun Jabbid as he lowered his hand. He looked down to see Cinder. "The new Foundling?"
"Yes," Djarin confirmed.
Sun kneeled down to her level. "I saw what you did today. Your actions won't be forgotten, young one. This is the Way."
"This is the Way," Djarin repeated.
"...This is the Way," said Cinder.
A chuckle escaped from Sun's throat as he stood up. "I like this one."
"As do I," said Djarin, who gave a short laugh. "Did you need something?"
"Yes. We need to gather outside the Armorer's forgery. She wants to perform a Tell."
Djarin, Cinder, Karga, and Cara were sitting in front of the Armorer's forgery with the rest of the Mandalorians. Cara leaned closer to Djarin. "What's going on?" she whispered.
"The Armorer's going to perform a Tell," said Djarin.
"A what?"
"A Tell. It can be an announcement or a story. It's something all of us need to hear."
Cinder looked up to Djarin. "It's about us, isn't it?"
"Has to be."
The door opened and the Armorer stepped down the stairs. She looked over everyone who joined her. She was holding a welding tool, a blanket with something wrapped in it, and a small pauldron in her hands. She put the pauldron and blanket down and spoke. "We faced a grave challenge today," she said. "Atlas sought to wipe this place clean of our existence. But because of your efforts, and that of our new allies, we have shown our mettle to the world. We showed that we will never surrender. This is the Way."
"This is the Way," every Mandalorian repeated. Even Cinder repeated the phrase.
The Armorer continued. "Today, we are blessed with new allies and a new Foundling." She turned to look at Karga and Cara. "We normally do not allow outsiders here. But you fought by our side. Willingly. It seems we are in your debt."
Karga stood up and pointed at Djarin. "He and your people saved my life more times than I can count today. Even though I didn't deserve it. There's no need to owe me anything."
The Armorer nodded and looked back to her audience. "Din Djarin. Stand." Djarin stood up, Cinder joined him. "You have brought the tribe a new Foundling."
"Yes," he confirmed.
The Armorer held out her hand. "Come, young one."
Cinder looked at Djarin, who nodded. She slowly walked over to the Armorer and took her hand. The Armorer turned back to everyone. "This child is stronger than most. She fought without hesitation, came to our aid while the rest of the Foundlings were sent into hiding." She looked down to Cinder. "When I spoke to you earlier, you wished to immediately fight with us. Remarkably well, might I add."
Cinder looked over to Djarin. "He's been teaching me. Not just how to fight, but about you." She then looked over to the crowd. "All of you. I've been learning about your history and culture. I learned about all you accomplished... and all that you lost." She looked up to the Armorer. "After everything I learned... I realized that this may be where I belong. If... you accept me."
The Armorer reached down and gently grasped her necklace. "If you know about us, then you know what this is. And who it belongs to."
Cinder knew the Mythosaur skull was made of Beskar. And that it belonged the the Mandalorians. This is the Way. She nodded and lowered her head.
"Then it seems it has found a proper owner."
Cinder's heart skipped a beat when she heard this. Her eyes widened and her mouth dropped as she quickly looked back at the Armorer. "You... You mean-?"
"You have proven yourself worthy of the title 'Mandalorian.' I am proud to call you my kin."
A million emotions rushed to Cinder's heart. She couldn't contain them all. She pressed a hand to her wide smile, tears of joy rushed down her face, and she started to laugh.
Djarin walked over to Cinder. Before he could do anything, two arms wrapped around his waist. He put his hand on Cinder's head and shoulder, returning her hug. He felt proud of what happened today. Not just for fulfilling his promise to Cinder, but that she had gained the Armorer's favor. It wouldn't be long before she became one of the best Mandalorians. He had faith in that.
After she let him go, Cinder looked back to the Armorer. "You won't regret your decision," she said. "I'll provide all my strength to your... to our clan."
The Armorer placed her hands on Cinder's shoulders. "I would have no doubts about that. But your place is not with us."
Djarin quickly snapped his gaze at the Armorer. "What?"
Cinder's smile faded. "I... I don't understand," she said in disbelief.
"Not only do you have strength and bravery... but you also possess an extraordinary power," said the Armorer. "We have all seen it." The audience looked around and nodded to each other. They had all seen Cinder's use of elemental powers.
"I can control it," Cinder said as she looked at the other Mandalorians. "You don't need to be afraid. I know it's unusual, but I-"
"I do not fear you, Cinder," the Armorer cut her off. "I know of such things."
Cinder was in disbelief once again. "You... You do?" she asked the Armorer.
"Yes."
The Armorer walked to the side of her forgery. She took out her welding tool and began to make a picture on the wall. Cinder and Djarin walked closer to it. The Armorer spoke as she made her image. "The songs of eons past tell of battles between Mandalore the Great..."
She stepped away from the wall. Cinder and Djarin could see a circle. The circle looked like a clock, but had three arrows at the top, left, and right. It was cut off at the bottom to show what looked like five crystals. In the center of the circle was a vertical eye. "And a witch named Salem, who fought with such powers. We have come to know it as the Power of Old."
Djarin and Cinder looked at each other. "She is an enemy?" Djarin asked as he looked back at the emblem.
"Salem is," the Armorer confirmed. "But the child is not."
Cinder spoke up. "So... I'm like her? I'm like Salem?"
"No," said the Armorer. "Your power belongs to another. Salem has an enemy named Ozma, a sorcerer who is locked in a stalemate with her."
"I don't understand," said Cinder. "How am I involved?"
"You have been hunted by those who wish to claim the Power of Old for Salem. We are strong, but we cannot protect you from her."
Djarin put a hand on Cinder's shoulder. "Then what can we do?" he asked.
"You have no choice. You must reunite her with Ozma. Only he can train the child to use the Power of Old. She can use it against Salem."
"Where is he?" Cinder asked.
"This... you must determine."
Cinder's jaw dropped, but she quickly recovered. "You expect me to search the world for one man and have him train me to use this power?"
"This is the Way. But you will not be alone." The Armorer turned to Djarin. "You must go. A Foundling is in your care. By Creed, until she is of age or reunited with Ozma, you are as her father. This is the Way."
"This is the Way," Djarin repeated.
The Armorer looked at Cinder. "I understand your disappointment. Which is why I wish to give you something." The Armorer placed the pauldron on her left shoulder. She then picked up the blanket and held it in front of her new kin. Cinder opened it and gasped. There were two silver swords with broad blades in the blanket. There was a set of arrows under them. She picked them up and looked at them in awe. They felt cold, but she didn't mind.
"Beskar," Cinder realized.
"Like these." The Armorer picked up one of the arrows. "Combine the swords at their hilts."
Cinder obeyed, and heard something click. The swords had become one, and a wire shot out of one end and combined with the other. The swords had become a bow.
"These were my first craft," the Armorer told her. "Now they belong to you."
"They're... beautiful," Cinder said with a smile. "Thank you."
The Armorer nodded and looked at Djarin. "You have earned your signets."
Djarin stepped forward and the Armorer placed her tool on his right pauldron. Once she finished welding an image, she made another on Cinder's pauldron. The duo looked at their signets. It was a symbol of the first time they worked together. The image of a Rinocer was on both their shoulders.
"You are a clan of two," the Armorer said.
Djarin looked at her. "...Thank you. We will wear them with honor."
Djarin had said his goodbyes to the Children of the Watch and had begun to make his way back to the city of Nevarro with Cinder, Cara, and Karga. The walk was rather a quiet one, as everyone was still thinking about the secret the Armorer shared with everyone. They all had differing views on Salem.
Cara and Karga weren't too worried about Salem. Between the Mandalorian's determination and Cinder's powers, they both knew she couldn't beat them easily. And the fact that two powerful warriors seemed inseparable at the moment would only make things more difficult for her.
Cinder was still wrapping her head around all of it. She was surprised to hear that the Armorer was the one of the only people on Remnant who seemed to have a clue about her powers. They were the reason Gideon and Watts had been hunting her, so she understood why the Armorer had given her this quest; keeping them safe was the only option. But it didn't make leaving any easier. She was hoping her troubles would be over once she found the Mandalorians... but they had just begun. The only thing that kept Cinder's spirits up was the fact that she wasn't leaving alone. Her gifts reminded her that she was still Mandalorian, that the Armorer accepted her without hesitation. And even though she lost a place to call her home... she had gained a father.
Djarin was also wrapping his head around the Armorer's story. It did explain Watts' and Gideon's actions. And it showed how important it was to keep Cinder safe. Not that Djarin already knew that, he was determined to keep her safe no matter what. But he knew nothing about his new enemy. Things may not be as easy for the bounty hunter anymore. Not that it would stop him. He still had a job to do. And having Cinder around would ease his burden. And make his mission a little more enjoyable.
They arrived just in time to see an airship leave the battlefield. Djarin was looking at the helmet of a fallen Dark Trooper when Cara walked up to him.
"I couldn't find his body," she said. "The airship must have taken him."
"It did," said Djarin. He pressed a button on his gauntlet that displayed a text message from Pietro.
"The General is in critical condition. I have to take him to Atlas to give him the proper care he needs. Take care of Cinder. Good luck."
"So he's still alive," Karga said.
"He won't be back anytime soon," Djarin said. "Any more rogue troopers?"
"I think we cleaned up the town. I'm thinking of staying around just to be sure."
Djarin was surprised to hear this. Karga wasn't the kind of person to stay in one spot for a long time. "You're staying here?" he asked.
"Well, why not?" Karga asked with a short laugh. "Nevarro is a very fine town. And now that the scum and villainy have been washed away, it's very respectable again."
"As a bounty hunter hive?"
"Some of my favorite people are bounty hunters." Karga turned to Cara. "And perhaps, this specimen of soldier might consider joining our ranks."
Cara gave a short laugh when she heard this. Not that it sounded like a bad job, but it sounded too good to be true, given her track record with Atlas. "Yeah... I've got some clerical concerns regarding my chain code," she said.
But Karga quickly put her worries to rest. "And if you would agree to become my enforcer, clerical concerns would be the least of your worries." He then turned to the Mandalorian. "But you, my friend, you will be welcome back into the Guild with open arms. So, go off, enjoy yourself. And when you're ready to return, you will have the pick of all quarries."
Before Djarin could reply, he felt something gently grasp his hand. He looked to his right and saw Cinder holding his hand with a soft smile on her face. It seemed she was ready to go. "I'm afraid I have more pressing matters at hand," he said as he rubbed Cinder's head with his other hand.
"Take care of her," Cara said to Djarin.
"Or maybe..." Karga looked down to Cinder. "You'll take care of him."
"We'll do our best," said Djarin. He gently squeezed Cinder's hand. "You ready?"
"As I'll ever be," Cinder replied.
With that, Djarin picked Cinder up and took to the skies in his jetpack.
Hours later
Pietro was sitting at a computer, looking over multiple blueprints. He had to pull a lot of strings and cash in dozens of favors to get what he wanted, but it turned out they were in vain.
At the moment, Pietro was looking over blueprints for an IG-unit. All that survived his self destruct was an arm, nothing else was salvageable. He was also thinking about how rebuilding IG-11 would be impossible with what he had. The blueprints were incomplete, so building a body for IG-11 would be difficult, if not impossible. And all the programming that made IG-11 who he was had been destroyed. It was sad to admit, but IG-11 was gone.
Shutting down his computer, Pietro walked to the door, prepared to call it a night. As soon as he opened it, he came face to face with General Ironwood. "General!" he yelled. "What are you doing? You should be in the hospital wing!"
"I'm sorry I startled you, Pietro," said Ironwood with a laugh. "I've rested enough, and I needed to try out the work you did on me."
Ironwood was referring to the surgery Pietro helped perform on him. When he was found, the right side of Ironwood's body was burnt to a crisp. He had lost a leg in the explosion and couldn't feel his arm. The only option the doctors had was to replace half of his body with the best technology Atlas had to offer. The surgery took two hours to perform, but the results were, as Pietro and Ironwood could see, remarkable.
"Well, how do you feel?" Pietro asked calmly. "The arm and leg should feel natural, but your torso is half artificial. It's also not past the trial stages."
"You're right about my arm and leg," said Ironwood, making a few fists with his new arm. "They do feel natural. But the torso feels natural as well. I expected it to weigh me down, but that's the opposite."
"Well, you should still be resting. I still need to look over a few things."
"Of course," Ironwood turned to see IG-11's arm on the table. He picked it up and looked it over. "I take it there's no chance at rebuilding it?"
"I'm afraid not, sir," said Pietro.
"It's a shame. It would have made a good protector of Mantle."
"Protector?"
Ironwood put the arm down. "Well, that's one of the reasons I came to see you. I've spread my army across Remnant, they're all looking for Gideon and his rogue army. There are a few airships in Atlas, but I can't rest easy knowing Gideon's out there."
Pietro understood his concerns. After the battle, they searched the town and close to the Mandalorian village. They found a destroyed Manta, but they couldn't find Gideon's body. He was still out, preparing for another attack. "And... the Mandalorian?" he asked.
Ironwood turned back to Pietro. "He's no longer a threat. He'll be more focused on keeping Cinder safe from Gideon. But should he cause more trouble... I'll cross that bridge when I come to it. But in order to keep my soldiers close to home, I'll be ordering the platoon in Mantle to return to Atlas."
Pietro was shocked to hear this. Other than the walls, Mantle relied on the usual garrison of soldiers to keep them safe. Sending them back to Atlas would mean-
"James... you'll be leaving Mantle vulnerable," said Pietro.
"...I know," Ironwood said. "Which is why I came to you. I was hoping the IG-unit could be repaired, but I need... something else."
"How long until they leave?"
"A week. Huntsmen and Huntresses will help, but I can't keep them here forever. I need a more permanent solution."
Pietro took off his cap and scratched his head. "Oh, boy. I'll need some time to think about this."
"Of course." Ironwood began to leave. "And by the way... thank you for saving my life."
Ironwood left Pietro with his thoughts. The doctor began to leave his office as well. As he walked, he was thinking about how Ironwood was right. IG-11 would have been the perfect protector of Mantle. His abilities would have put the Atlesian Knights to shame. But not just his fighting abilities... but also in the compassion Pietro gave him. IG-11 protected Cinder, the Mandalorian, and Ironwood for as long as he could. And when the odds were against them, he chose to give his own life. Maybe... Pietro could make a protector like that. Not just what Mantle needed, but what it deserved. The city deserved a protector with a heart.
Or perhaps... a soul.
Pietro kept walking, thinking more about how to accomplish this.
Author's notes: hope you liked this chapter, it's actually the longest one in this story. I think other chapters will be around the same length since I want to go deeper into the story and my writing skills. That being said, I want to ask you all something: what do you think of my writing style in this story? I'm unhappy with all the short sentences I write and think I can go further and into more detail when writing. Do you agree? Do you feel my writing style can be improved? Please let me know.
To Nexus Gundam, I'm glad you liked Gideon's betrayal. I was hoping it would come as a surprise, but I'm glad you enjoyed it nonetheless. Hope you liked this chapter.
To Mandalorian00, your letters keep getting better and better. Hope you enjoyed the chapter.
To 23debal01, thank you. Hope you enjoyed this one.
To D.N Works, I'm glad you like my take on Ironwood. I tried to capture the same personality he has in RWBY. Ironwood has a heart, but his arrogance and ego are stronger at times. Hope you liked the chapter.
To aklike95, your wish is my command.
To Marc Ello-Re Yes, I understand what you're saying. But Cinder is good at talking with people and persuading them in seasons 2-3. She doesn't do it much anymore (except with Neo), and I wanted that to be a constant trait with her. I'm glad you like traitor Gideon, and Ironwood isn't a bad guy (he's just arrogant sometimes). Hope I answered some questions with Cinder's future and I hope you liked the chapter.
To 54godamora, season 1 is over at this point. Hope you liked it.
To GojiraFan455515, I hope I met your expectations with this chapter.
To Rook435, you're welcome. I explained it a little more in the story and you're right about Ironwood, he's not a bad guy. But his ego and arrogance can outweigh his nobility. As you saw, he doesn't fully trust Djarin yet, but he has more important things to worry about. You'll see more of Gideon and his plans later. Hope you enjoyed the chapter.
That's all I have for now! I'm sorry in advance for the waiting you'll have to do, since I feel the chapters should be longer (but let me know if you feel otherwise). Please leave your thoughts in the reviews, and thank you for your support!