Jaune Arc stood tall and composed before the assembly of diplomats and officials gathered in the grand hall in Mistral with the most professional demeanor he could muster. Winter Schnee shadowed him, her posture impeccable, hands clasped behind her back. The air was thick with anticipation as they prepared to present the critical findings. People wanted answers and the recent explosion Jaune made shoo everyone.
Jaune took a deep breath and began his recount while tugging his yellow tie, the Arc emblem catching light.
"Don't speak casual," the scheming voice said. "Be professional."
"Or be dramatic," a dramatic voice added. "Let your SOUL speak true."
"Ladies and gentlemen," Jaune began, his voice unwavering, "I stand before you today to present the findings of our investigation into the recent attacks and disturbances. Our inquiry commenced with a raid on a White Fang rally that occurred prior to the assault on the city. During this operation, I discovered a pivotal piece of evidence."
Jaune reached into his pocket and retrieved a small, golden button, elevating it for all to observe. "This golden button," he stated, "was the catalyst that initiated everything."
A voice from Jaune's head, well-informed, interjected, "That button is commonly found in Menagerie. The craftsmanship is distinct to the region."
Jaune nodded, reiterating the details. "The craftsmanship indicates an origin from Menagerie. This clue suggested a connection that could not be disregarded. Pursuing this lead, we uncovered additional evidence, which ultimately led to a discovery that revealed everything to me about the nefarious plan of the White Fang."
He paused for a moment, allowing his words to sink in. Then, he gestured to the screen behind him, which lit up with pictures he had taken while sneaking in the warehouse. The images depicted a warehouse where members of the White Fang were seen attaching green crystals to Grimm.
"This," Jaune stated, indicating the display, "is our discovery. The White Fang has been conducting experiments on Grimm, affixing green crystals to them."
Winter Schnee stepped forward, her demeanor poised and commanding, her voice resonating with clarity and authority. "We suspect this to be an endeavor aimed at replicating Dr. Merlot's experiments. As many of you now have been made aware, three years ago, a team of Beacon students successfully thwarted Dr. Merlot's ambitions and dismantled his laboratory. However, based on our recent findings, there exists a credible possibility that Dr. Merlot may still be active, or worse yet, that an individual or group is endeavoring to emulate his scientific pursuits."
Jaune continued, "During the assault at Haven, our investigation also revealed the presence of android units prominently branded with the letter 'M' upon their torsos." He presented a meticulously compiled dossier detailing the distinct features of the androids, their aesthetic characterized by a fusion of red and white hues, emblematic of Dr. Merlot's signature design. "This compelling evidence posits a strong inference that Dr. Merlot, or an individual endowed with access to his technological prowess, is implicated in the genesis of these aberrant manifestations of Grimm."
"So far so good, keep it up," a dramatic voice said, excited. "Show them how your words are and speak to them with the language of your SOUL."
He then turned to Nyra dramatically, who stepped forward with a calm demeanor. "The male Faunus that Mr. Arc captured is Fennec Albain," she explained. "He has long been suspected of being a White Fang member."
Jaune showed a picture of Fennec Albain among the White Fang, followed by screenshots of text messages and recordings he had made in scroll, which implicated Albain in their schemes.
The crowd of diplomats and authorities began to murmur, digesting the magnitude of what they were hearing. Finally, someone from the audience spoke up, summarizing the key point. "So, Mr. Arc, you uncovered all of this because of a… button?"
"Yes, yes," the curious voice bragged. "It was all because of ME."
Jaune grinned, his confidence unwavering. "Yes," he replied. "Everything tells a story. But in this case, Mr. Fennec Albain was simply caught red-handed."
"We still don't know who handed the crystal to the faunus," the yellow said in disdain.
The room buzzed with a mix of astonishment and admiration. The diplomats exchanged glances, the weight of the evidence undeniable. Jaune's presentation had not only showcased their findings, but had also shown them an intricate web of evidence.
The atmosphere shifted as the significance of their discovery settled in. The diplomats now understood the depth of the conspiracy they were up against. Jaune's side had meticulously pieced together a puzzle that pointed to a dire threat, one that demanded immediate attention and action.
Especially with it involving the white fang and Merlot.
As the murmurs subsided, a senior diplomat stood up, his expression grave. "Mr. Arc, Ms. Schnee, Ms. Nyra, your investigation has uncovered a threat that we cannot ignore. We must act swiftly to address this menace. The Council will convene an emergency session to discuss our next steps."
Jaune solemnly recognized the gravity of the situation with a decisive nod, conveying his sincere appreciation for the shared sense of urgency. "Thank you. We are fully committed to extending our assistance, as Atlas has consistently done as allies of Mistral. This threat surpasses individual interests, necessitating a unified front in our collective response against this malevolent organization that sought to sow division among the diverse populace of Mistral."
Winter emphasized, "We have meticulously compiled comprehensive reports and supplementary evidence that will significantly contribute to your deliberations. The well-being of our constituents and the harmonious stability of the Anima regions hinge upon our unified and judicious response."
The diplomat acknowledged her words with a nod. "We will review your findings thoroughly. Your efforts have provided us with the foundation we need to take decisive action. We commend your dedication and bravery. Once again, it is assuring that Atlas stands with us in our times of need."
As the assembly dispersed, Jaune couldn't shake off the weariness that settled upon him, heavy with the weight of responsibility. This affair had only scratched the surface of the conflict, revealing a fragment of the puzzle amidst a sea of uncertainties and looming threats.
As Jaune Arc stood outside the grand hall. Nyra, the silver-haired wolf Faunus, approached him, a mix of admiration and incredulity in her eyes.
"You know, Jaune," she began, her voice tinged with a hint of amusement, "you're ridiculous. Finding all this because of a golden button? It sounds like something out of a fairy tale."
"And she doesn't know she's standing in front of someone who would have become one," the yellow tie's voice said.
Jaune chuckled, scratching the back of his head. "Yeah, it does sound a bit far-fetched when you put it that way. But sometimes, the smallest things can lead to the biggest discoveries."
Nyra nodded, her expression turning serious. "No, Jaune, I doubt anyone would have been as mad enough to suspect a button, of all things. But speaking of discoveries, what are your plans now? Menagerie is in civil war. It's a mess, and I don't know what's going to happen."
Jaune frowned, considering the implications. "I wish I had a simple answer. With everything that's going on, it's hard to predict the next move. What about you, Ma'am? Any plans?"
Nyra sighed, her shoulders drooping slightly. "I don't have a solid plan yet. There are many abandoned settlements in Mistral that might be useful for those seeking to avoid the war.. With refugees now coming to Mistral's shores to avoid the conflict in their hometown, we could use those places to shelter them."
"You think the Council here will approve?" Jaune's brow furrowed. "Do you think it will be safe with the Grimm around?"
"Don't forget the bandits," the rusty voice said.
"We'll find a way," Nyra said with determination. "We're raising the reward of Lien to attract Huntsmen to clear these places. It's a risk, but it's a risk we have to take. I'll do my best to make sure it works. I'd appreciate it if you could help talk to some people about me."
Jaune nodded slowly, though he didn't make any promises. "I'll see what I can do, Nyra."
She smiled appreciatively, then turned to leave, her entourage of Faunus bodyguards falling into step around her.
"She shows strategic acumen by promptly aligning herself with our faction upon seeing Albain, effectively disassociating herself from any affiliation with the White Fang," the scheming voice praised. "Her subsequent actions conveyed a commitment to impartiality, refusing to shield individuals seeking refuge with our adversaries. This adept maneuver not only solidified her neutrality but also showcased her astuteness in navigating delicate diplomatic situations. Overall, her actions reflect a commendable level of discernment and shrewdness. Not bad."
"She's a diplomat," the yellow tie added. "Of course she's shrewd."
As she departed, Winter Schnee came to stand beside Jaune.
"The General is satisfied with the outcomes," Winter stated, her tone poised and composed. "Our alliance with Mistral continues to be steadfast, bolstering our diplomatic ties. Furthermore, the neutral factions within Menagerie acknowledge our stance as permissible, notwithstanding the measures taken to vilify the White Fang's history entirely."
"A rotten cause will remain rotten even if you prune its branches or cut the tree to the ground. It will grow back stronger and more rotten than ever," the rusty voice sneered.
Jaune then glanced at the Argus officials who had come by, their expressions a mix of concern and determination as they greeted Jaune.
The voices in his head started to murmur again, a cacophony of opinions and thoughts.
Without work, we will rot. We should follow up on the one who handed those crystals.
DUST CRYSTALS TURNED LIQUID?
Not not now, drunkard.
These ambiguous messages left Jaune confused. He voiced his thoughts aloud, seeking clarity. "What's next move, Miss Winter?"
Winter considered his question. "Although your discovery was useful and implicates the White Fang further, Menagerie's civil war is still a significant problem. It's still unclear if we'll intervene."
"What she means is that we should do nothing while they are making mistakes," the scheming voice said.
Jaune nodded, lost in thought. The rusty voice and the knight's voice began to argue in his mind, making guesses about who would win.
The knight's voice was confident that the righteous side of Menagerie would prevail, but the rusty voice worried that it was all part of Salem's plan to stab Atlas in the south. The scheming voice agreed with the rusty voice, adding to Jaune's unease.
The well-informed voice then suddenly spoke, providing context. "Menagerie is a continent situated to the south of Anima and stands as the smallest landmass on Remnant. Its terrain predominantly consists of desert expanses, accounting for approximately two-thirds of its total area. This geographical feature necessitates the concentration of resident Faunus populations into compact settlements such as Kuo Kuana, which serves as the continent's capital. Functioning as a sanctuary for Faunus, Menagerie offers refuge and protection. However, the desert regions are also home to the Grimm, presenting a persistent threat to the inhabitants."
Jaune absorbed this information, feeling a deeper understanding of Menagerie. Then, another voice spoke with the rustle of leaves accompanying it.
"In the timeless expanse of Remnant's history," the voice said. "There whispers a myth veiled in the mystique of ages past—the legend of the Shallow Sea, woven intricately into the tapestry of Faunus lore. At its heart beats the tale of the God of Animals, a celestial entity of boundless transformations, whose ethereal presence graced the tranquil shores of Menagerie, a sanctuary untouched by the footprints of humanity. Enshrouded in enigma, the god harbored an insatiable curiosity for the realm beyond, yet hesitated to invite the beings of mankind to tread upon the sacred soil of Menagerie. Thus, assuming the guise of a mortal wanderer, the god ventured forth into the vast expanse of Remnant, navigating the realms of mortals in search of souls adorned with the mark of destiny. Guided by the whispers of the wind and the secrets whispered by the stars, the god extended a beckoning hand to those whose spirits glimmered with untold potential, inviting them to partake in the mysteries of the Shallow Sea — a realm where the veils between worlds grew thin, and the boundaries of existence blurred into the ethereal embrace of the unknown. Those who answered the divine call were transformed, reborn beneath the moonlit waves as the Faunus, bearers of ancient wisdom and guardians of the natural order. In their awakened eyes, humanity was but a fleeting illusion — a shallow veneer veiling the deeper truths of their inner selves. And so, amidst the gentle lullabies of the ocean's embrace, the God of Animals bid farewell to the remnants of humanity, entrusting the sacred isle of Menagerie to the custodianship of the Faunus—a testament to the eternal dance between mortal and divine, woven into the fabric of existence itself."
"Is that God even real?" the rusty voice, tinged with doubt, disputed.
A fanatical voice then answered, filled with fervor. "THERE IS NO GOD BUT THE GREAT TREE AND ITS AVATAR THE BLACKSMITH. The Brothers are nothing more than CHILDREN compared to the Great Tree's mercy and kindness!"
Jaune agreed with the voice, remembering what he had seen in the rusty voice's memories. The Afteran's memories were quite vivid about meeting the possible Mother of the Brothers and he saw no God of Animals at the Blacksmith's table. Or perhaps it was the Brothers?
"Winter Schnee's staring at you, fool," the yellow tie tightened around his neck as if to remind him. "Then again, she already knows and accepts that you're a real fuckup, Jaune, a drunk, but a useful drunk."
"Miss Winter," Jaune said, breaking his thought, "It seems we still have a lot of work ahead of us. Menagerie, the White Fang, Merlot and even the bandits terrorizing Mistral."
Winter nodded in agreement. As they walked away from the grand hall, wandering through the bustling streets of Mistral, the noise of construction and the hum of city life were all around them. Jaune moved through the crowd with purpose, yet he found himself constantly stopping to chat with various people, humans and Faunus alike.
Winter Schnee, still observing him from a few steps behind, noted this pattern with curiosity. Finally, she caught up to him, her expression thoughtful. "Is it a habit of yours to be so... engaged with everyone you meet?"
Jaune paused, taking a moment to listen to the voices in his head, which immediately began their familiar chorus.
The yellow tie's voice was the first to speak, dripping with sarcasm. "Oh, look at you, Mr. Social Butterfly. You think talking to every random person is going to save the world?"
The well-informed voice chimed in next, more analytical. "There's value in gathering information, even from unexpected sources. Networking can reveal hidden connections."
The curious voice added, "Indeed, it's surprising how many dots you can connect through casual conversation. It led us to the faunus, right?"
The knight's voice was encouraging. "Every person you meet has a story, a piece of the puzzle. You're doing good work, Jaune."
Jaune smiled at the cacophony in his mind and turned to Winter. "It's surprising how many dots you can connect," he began, echoing the voices. "Sometimes a guy knows a guy who knows another guy who mentions someone involved with someone else, who knew another person specializing in something. And that person knows yet another one, and so forth. Everyone has a tale to tell, and sometimes those tales lead to unexpected surprises."
Winter raised an eyebrow. "You're really are much more sociable than what Weiss has told me."
Jaune shrugged, a modest smile on his face. "I was socially inept for a long time, but spending time with people has taught me how to talk to them."
The rusty voice scoffed. "You? Socially adept? That's rich."
The yellow's tie voice agreed, somewhat condescendingly. "Don't get too full of yourself, Brother. You're still learning."
The scheming voice sneered. "Talking to people is one thing. Truly understanding them is another."
The rusty voice was bitter as it added, "We have to learn to be a chatterbox, Jaune. Dueling with words with the curious cat and the red king, who later became the red prince. In the Everafter, there were many who either spoke with unbound knowledge or sheer madness… and if you want to find someone in that place… talking to the Afterans usually was the way to go since they don't have scrolls. Talking to floating clothes, teacups, potatoes, and inanimate objects isn't madness, but was a reality for me! If I can talk to those maddening creatures, then people are easy."
Jaune winced slightly at the memory, the voices echoing in his mind. He looked at Winter, his expression more serious. "It's not always easy, you know. Some conversations I've had, the people I've met, they were... intense."
Winter nodded, her expression softening. "I can see that. But it's a valuable skill, Jaune. Being able to connect with people, to hear their stories — it's important and useful."
As they continued walking, Jaune reflected on her words. The construction sites they passed symbolized the rebuilding and recovery efforts in Mistral. The city was a melting pot of cultures, with humans and Faunus working side by side, striving for a better future. Every interaction he had, every story he heard, was a piece of the larger puzzle that connected him to the city.
"And if we talk enough with people here," a voice reminded. "It would be like the city itself is talking to us. WE WOULD BECOME THE LISTENER OF THE CITY."
They passed a group of children playing in the street, their laughter a stark contrast to the serious conversations Jaune had been having. He smiled at them, feeling a renewed sense of hope.
Winter watched him closely. "Your ability to connect with people, to understand them — it's wonderful."
"You can hear it, right?" his heart voiced. "The envy. The questions if she's machine or woman. If people would approach her without feeling the stung of the ice surrounding her heart."
Jaune nodded, his thoughts drifting back to the voices in his head.
A well-informed voice spoke up, its tone matter-of-fact. "Menagerie is a continent located south of Anima and is the smallest continent on Remnant. Two-thirds of the landmass is comprised of desert, forcing the resident Faunus to congregate in smaller, dense settlements like Kuo Kuana, the capital. It's a safe haven for Faunus, but the deserts are also inhabited by Grimm."
The knight's voice offered encouragement. "A a wealth of knowledge, Jaune. Use it wisely."
The rusty voice and the scheming voice, though often cynical, provided the counterbalance.
The rusty voice grumbled, "Just remember, not everyone is worth your time. Dealing with Menagerie is troublesome"
The scheming voice reminded, "Be careful who you trust. Not all tales are told with good intentions."
As they approached the edge of the city, Jaune stopped and turned to Winter. "You know, Miss Winter, all these interactions, all these connections — they're what keeps me going. It what drew me into my role. It's not perfect and there are times where I have to compromise a lot to broke for a peace. But it's something. To give hope and relief to the people using words, not just words is a beautiful feeling, Ma'am."
Winter then eyed an officer. "And that's why you're chosen as the mediator for this, Arc. Because you understand that it's not just about the task, but about the people as well."
Jaune was about to speak when he saw that the Atlas officer was approaching their way, his expression grim with news to deliver to Winter. He gave the officer a glance, allowing him to report.
"Sir, Ma'am," he began, saluting sharply at them before reporting, "I regret to inform you that the villages of Shion and its neighboring settlement have been attacked and have been destroyed by a bandit raid. The Grimm had also overrun the villages."
Winter's gaze sharpened, her concern clear as she listened intently. "By whom?"
The officer hesitated briefly before delivering the unsettling revelation. "The White Fang member named Raven Branwen and her tribe, ma'am."
Besides the Grimm, there was another entity disrupting peace in the region, even in the absence of White Fang.
Someone more dangerous than the white fang.
A maiden who controls the elements.