SkyRig: And here we are with Chapter 2. Apologies for the long wait, everyone. Procrastination, working on other IRL projects, and dealing with a bunch of crap in my life led to a late start on this. Also, very happy to see that people are enjoying this rewrite. I hope we will continue to deliver quality stuff to you for [Royal Revisions]. With that out of the way, here's the next chappy.
CHAPTER ONE:
"The New World"
"Well, this is fun."
"You've said that at least four times in the last three hours, Qrow…"
Summer Rose looked over her shoulder. Taiyang's usual easy-going smile was gone, replaced by irritation and annoyance. His blonde hair was messy, his skin caked with sweat and dirt, and his shirt drenched in bodily fluids. Qrow was in a similar state, though he wore a lopsided grin that would have looked better on his partner's face. Raven walked close behind her, hand never leaving the hilt of her sword and her armor roughed up in a few places. Like the rest of Team STRQ, her clothes were dirtied and mucked up.
Summer was no worse for wear herself, though, unlike her teammates, her weapon was no longer viable. It was wrecked to hell, the shift mechanism too damaged and the main base cracked. The metal was warped, further preventing the weapon from changing. In short, they were down a person and a leader. Sure, she could rely on her Semblance and her "superpower" if pressed, but that was a last resort, not to mention tiring.
"Hey, could be worse," Qrow shrugged, Harbinger bouncing on his shoulder with each step. "We could have, I dunno, died when the Bullhead crashed. Like the pilot. What was his name again? Garry or somethin'? I liked Garry. He was nice."
"Qrow, please stop talking. I'm sweaty, I'm tired, and you are not helping."
"Hey, I'm just trying to make conversation. I ain't walking a desert in silence."
True to his word, the four members of Team STRQ stood in a vast sea of gritty sands, hot rocky ground, and arid heat. After their crash landing, they gathered what supplies survived the impact, gave Garry a proper burial, and crossed the desert in search of civilization.
Of course, it was easier said than done. At first, they wondered if they crash-landed in Vacuo, only to realize via the lack of signal from their Scroll and the geography that they were someplace else. They remembered a bright flash of light, screaming, and then nothing. When they awoke, the Bullhead was lying upside down, its left wing torn off and its cockpit smashed to pieces. The pilot, thankfully, was somehow intact.
As for the wear and tear and damage they sustained, all of it came about from battling the local wildlife. Which raised several questions, seeing as how they were nothing the teenage Huntsmen and Huntresses had ever seen before. Their first contact with the hostile wildlife was rather memorable.
"...hey, Qrow? Is it just me, or does that weird-looking dog have tusks and looks like it really, really wants to eat us?"
No sooner had Summer gotten that out did the strange tusk-wearing dogs attacked. It was a short fight, lasting barely a minute, but it was nonetheless stressful and strange.
"Seriously, though, where in the hell are we?"
"It ain't Vacuo, that's for sure." Taiyang scratched his head. "Is it wrong that I kinda wish that were the case?"
"At least we'd have a better idea what the heck was going on."
Raven suddenly paused. "What's up?" her brother asked. "See something?"
Wordlessly, she pointed ahead of them. The three followed her finger and saw what startled her. It was more of the local wildlife, though it was thankfully not the tusk-wearing dogs from earlier. Instead, they saw a pack of what looked like a giraffe's cousin; brown leathery skin, long necks, and pointed hooves. Unlike giraffe's, however, these ones had horns jutting from the back of the head.
"...do we attack?" she asked, pressing her thumb against the hilt of her sword.
Summer saw the creatures looking back, almost judgmentally. They stared her down, but otherwise paid the group no mind. "No," she decided. "Only if they attack first. Let's just…keep moving on."
"Wait, hold on!" Taiyang said suddenly, grabbing her by the shoulder and pointing to something behind the wildlife. "You see that?" Summer peered past the giraffe-looking creatures, and felt her mood brighten. "I'm not seeing things, right?"
"I…I don't think you are because I see it too. Qrow, Raven, are you seeing what we're seeing?"
The dark-haired man laughed. "A road, thank god. That means there's gotta be someplace with people nearby, right?"
"There should be." Or at least, so she hoped. "Hopefully the locals are friendly."
"And they can tell us where the hell we are," Raven added. "Wherever we are, it isn't anywhere in the four kingdoms."
Taiyang scoffed. "What, you mean we're in some unidentified continent, island, or kingdom no one's ever heard of before today? Come on, Raven. That's ridiculous."
"Or we're in one of thise shitty comics my brother reads about. What's that genre called? The Mistralian one where people wind up in another world."
"Hey!" Qrow roared indignantly as they walked toward the road. "They ain't shitty. It just depends on the comic. Besides, I'm more interested in the woman. Tai, back me up here. I loaned you some, so you know what I'm talking about, right?"
"Please leave me out of this," Taiyang groaned.
Summer giggled into her hand. Well, she thought happily. At least things are exciting again.
"Well, we can all talk about that later," she said. "Since we found a possible lead to civilization, let's go!"
"She's right," the blonde brawler agreed. "Let's get this show on the road!"
The response to that statement was silence…followed by Qrow face palming. "Way to go Tai, you took a sign of salvation for us and made it absolutely cringe-worthy."
"...I thought it was funny," Summer piped up.
"Thank you!"
"Enough!" Raven snapped with finality. "Let's just go before the local wildlife decides to make us their next meal…again."
All of them were in agreement. Fighting and walking for hours had gradually whittled away at their stamina. While they did find a road, none of them were sure how long it stretched. For all they know, the closest settlement might be several more miles away…at minimum.
The four quietly moved past the giraffe-looking creatures, taking extra measures not to provoke them. However, those measures were rendered moot when Qrow's semblance randomly kicked in.
"Whoa!" Somehow, someway, Taiyang tripped on nothing. He stumbled and flailed, trying to regain his balance. He failed and crashed into one of the giraffe-looking creatures. Evidently, Qrow's semblance didn't think that was enough and outdid itself as Taiyang's weapon fired off and struck one of the creatures in the leg, causing it to cry out in pain and topple over.
Furious eyes fell on Team STRQ. There was only one thing to do in this situation.
"God dammit, Qrow!" Raven's roar echoed up to the heavens.
In the Kingdom of Vale, more specifically Beacon Academy, the prestigious Huntsman institution under the supervision of the Valean Council, a meeting was held among the headmasters of the four academies.
Professor Ozpin, the youngest in the school's history to ever take the position of Headmaster, sat at his desk with his Scroll set in front of him. On his screen were three men of varying age. One wore white-and-blue garbs with a grim countenance, another was a well-dressed man with shoulder-length gray hair and an unruly beard, and the last was a man with short hair garbed in garish colors.
"How is everything over there in Vale?" James Ironwood questioned as soon as the Scrolls established connections.
Ozpin shrugged. "Fairly normal, all things considered. There are reports of stormy clouds off the western coast, but nothing truly outlandish. And you?"
"I'm getting reports about high-wind currents spewing all over Atlas," Ironwood replied grimly. "Strong enough to nearly knock air carriers out of the sky and blow out cables. People are being forced to stay indoors."
Professor Theodore laughed. "You two have it easy! I'm getting a blizzard! Can you imagine that? Blizzards! In Vacuo!"
"At least you don't have to deal with sea twisters," Leonardo Lionhart sighed, practically shrinking in on himself. "The council has no idea what's going on, and I've already heard at least three different vessels out at sea were caught in the twisters. No word on survivors."
Ozpin hummed thoughtfully.
Less than two hours ago, a bright light practically exploded across the horizon. A genuine pillar, colossal in size. It remained for a few short moments, but such an event was not one to be dismissed. People were already talking about it on social media forums, but the light show was quickly forgotten in favor of something far more startling. Across the four kingdoms, news crews reported strange weather phenomena happening all over Remnant. Storm clouds, blizzards, absurdly powerful gusts of wind, water twisters rampaging across the oceans…
"Has anyone heard anything of note in Menagerie?" Ozpin asked after a moment of consideration.
Leonardo looked like he wanted to cry. "If we're making this a disaster contest, I'm afraid Menagerie wins hands down. One of my old friends there called me a few minutes ago. There are giant spires of earth suddenly popping out of the ground. Thankfully, none of them popped out in the middle of Kuo Kuana, but the spires are appearing in the sea routes between the island and Anima."
"And the Grimm?"
"So far, nothing," Ironwood replied tersely. "But if this keeps going on, the negativity is going to increase." He looked at Ozpin intensely. "Oz, be honest… Is this the work of magic?"
"If it is, I am afraid I don't know who or what is responsible," he answered honestly. "Even the Four Maidens together could never hope to accomplish all of this."
The general narrowed his eyes. "What about her?"
"Not even her."
It was the truth. While Ozpin had no idea whether her magical power declined in recent years, he was certain that, even if she were strong as ever, she would never have been able to accomplish all of this. And even if it were her, the effects would be far worse. There would be greater losses of life. More damage to the populated civilian areas.
Not to mention said attacks would've been more malicious in nature. The feats, while bizarre and destructive, seemed more akin to fierce weather phenomena. Not to mention the lack of Grimm in the midst of it.
But while it does cross off her as a suspect, it does not explain the origins of these events. The bizarre weather started after the pillar of light appeared…but why did it happen in the first place?
He doubted it was a feat of the Brother Gods. They made their stance on the matter clear. Until the Relics were assembled, they would not return to Remnant. But even if they were, Ozpin would not dare call upon them with the state of the world as it was.
"If you say so, Oz," Theodore spoke up. "Still, crazy weather aside, any info on what that flash of light was?"
"Unfortunately not," Lionheart shook his head. "We're still trying to get things organized to minimize panic. The citizens are quite shaken up."
"The Council is in an uproar as well," Ironwood added. "They want answers, information. Things I don't have."
"I'm more concerned about the welfare of my students," Ozpin said with a frown. "Team STRQ accepted a mission out of the Kingdom. Unless I'm mistaken, their flight path put them right where the pillar of light appeared. For some reason, I can't get in touch with their Scrolls. They are either out of signal range, which is highly unlikely, or they are in a situation where accessing their Scrolls is impossible."
"Team STRQ," Theodore repeated. "That is Summer Rose's team, yes? The silver-eyed girl you're sweet on?"
"The very same, yes."
Although young, Summer was one of the brightest students he's had the pleasure of teaching. She was capable in combat, and her ability to lead was especially impressive for one her age. The Branwen twins were trouble, and Taiyang Xiao-Long was a man who enjoyed the thrill of adventure. Such a wild band would have been near impossible to keep together, yet they were drawn in by the girl and her charisma. She was their center, their rock. She had potential. That she possessed silver-eyes was an added bonus in his opinion.
He did not want to imagine the worst case scenario, nor the possibility that Salem captured them for whatever reason.
"What was their last-known location?" Ironwood asked.
Ozpin paused for a moment, thinking. "They should have been on Air Route No. 12. They were heading to the Southern Isles. Grimm extermination."
"I'll send a team to search for them," the general told him. "I want to investigate the strange source anyway. It'll be two birds with one stone."
"I'll leave my students safety to you, then."
After what felt like an hour of walking, Team STRQ all but collapsed from relief and exhaustion after finding the first place of civilization they could find. It was a gas stop by the looks of it, a restaurant and shop located to the left of it.
"I can't walk anymore…" Qrow wheezed. "My dogs are barking at me…"
"I can't feel my feet," Summer whined.
"Lucky," Raven panted. "Mine hurt like hell…"
"C-c'mon, guys…" Taiyang tried to stand on his feet. The key word, is "tried". He was shaky and unsteady, nearly falling over from the attempt alone. He could do no more than kneel. "Just… Just a few more steps. Diner's open, I-I think… Holy hell, I'm hungry…"
"Finally…food…" Summer cheered before whining with each step.
"So hungry…I can eat an entire horse." Qrow groaned as his stomach growled.
"Make that two for me…" Raven added.
After a few agonizing, slow steps, the four teenagers made it through the Diner door. The interior was quite clean. The back had a bar with seats while tables and chairs and booths littered the room and lined the walls. The smell of food hit them full force. Their stomachs practically roared in demand for sustenance. Their mouths salivated for a taste of what was on the menu.
Then a man walked in from the back, dressed in an apron and white hat. "Hey there, welcome to Takka's Pit Stop. How can I help you?"
"We're tired, hungry, and we want to eat," Qrow retorted only to receive an elbow to the ribs from both his sister and team leader.
"What he means, is that we're here to eat, please," Summer answered.
"You got it. Pull up a seat and grab a menu." He gestured to the bar in front of him. The four did just that, taking the four center stools as they each grabbed a menu detailing the Diner's dishes. As they read them through, and how hungry they were, they debated on ordering multiple items from it.
However, that thought was dashed as they noticed one particular detail from each of the listed food items.
"Uh…what the heck is a Gil?" Taiyang questioned. "Isn't that supposed to be Lien?"
"Lien? What are you talking about?" the man asked.
"You know, money. Currency."
The man raised an eyebrow. "Last I checked, we only accept Gil. Well, unless you're in Insomnia"
Summer furrowed her brow in confusion. She never heard of a change in currency, much less anywhere in Remnant accepting something other than Lien. She also noticed the man's accent was strange. It didn't sound familiar to her, which was saying something since she and her team went pretty much everywhere when they started their second year at Beacon.
"What does Gil look like?" she asked.
The man dug into his pocket and showed off a silver coin, one side bearing what looked to be a crest of some kind whereas the other had the visage of a beautiful woman. "This is Gil," he explained. "The crest of Lucis for heads, the goddess Eos for tails."
Lucis? Eos? Those names were unfamiliar to Summer. Judging by the concerned looks on her friends' faces, it was the same for them.
"...Alright, I'll bite," Taiyang said slowly. "Where in the heck is Lucis?"
"Are you serious? It's where we are. The Kingdom of Lucis. How do you…" The man trailed off. He stared at them, as if really looking at them for the first time. Something lit up in his eyes, growing wider by the second. He seemed stunned, shocked almost. "...you folks aren't from around here, are you?" His words came out almost like a whisper, with an emotion she couldn't place.
Raven sighed. "Pal," she began. "You have no idea."
After that, things got…weird. The man at the front counter left for a few moments, running almost in the back. When he returned, he had this strange look on his face and told them everything was on the house. For now. The team was suspicious, but they were too hungry and tired to think otherwise. They at least knew now something was off about the situation, more than they initially thought, and kept vigilant. They kept their weapons within arm's reach in case something happened.
On the plus side, the food was great, if a little strange. The Chili con Carne exploded in her mouth with spice and heat, almost enough to make her spit it out. When she somehow managed to keep the stuff from flying out her mouth and down her throat, Summer gulped half a glass of water.
Sadly, it did little to quench the burning sensation. All the cool liquid really did was spread the spice around in her mouth. She should've ordered milk with it.
Taiyang ordered a large burger with mushrooms, mayonnaise, and cheese on top with a side of Kenny's Fries. The burger was greasy yet flavorful. The mushrooms, mayonnaise, and cheese complimented the tender beef patty flawlessly. The fries were crisp and lightly salted.
Qrow ordered a dish that was called Kenny's Salmon. It was a pan seared salmon steak sitting in a bath of melted butter and cheese garnished with a side of lettuce.
Raven had a large order of spaghetti and meat balls. The mildly sweet, yet savory sauce was filled with meat that clung to the noddles as she slurped them up. The meatballs were also huge, needing to be cut apart to be eaten properly.
All in all, it was a very tasty meal…possibly their best given how hungry they were.
"Hot," Summer panted, waving a hand in her mouth. "Hot, hot!"
Raven shook her head. "I told you not to get the chili."
Qrow bit into one of the chopped pieces of steak, gulping it down in one bite. As he went in for another sampling, he stopped. It did not escape the rest of his team's notice when he began reaching for Harbinger. "Heads up," he advised, tilting his head to the door.
The door to the diner opened, the newcomers heralded by the ringing of the bell. A young man stepped toward them, dressed in an all-black suit with a sword at his hip. He looked a decade or so older than the teenagers, but he walked like a veteran Huntsman. His eyes were intense, steely almost. It reminded Summer of when she first met Qrow during their first year, of how guarded and cagey he was around others.
The man ignored the patrons, but they seemed to recognized him and began to whisper excitedly.
"Can we help you?" Qrow asked gruffly.
The man looked him in the eye. "That depends," he began. "Are you really not from Lucis?"
"We're from Vale," Summer answered.
Suddenly, all eyes were on them.
"How did you arrive here?"
"We came here by airship. We, uh, sort of crashed when this weird light showed up out of nowhere." Not wanting to make enemies, Summer was forthcoming in spite of the warning looks Raven gave her. "We didn't mean to show up unannounced, but we kind of have no idea where we are."
"...no," he said after a period of silence. His gaze turned softer. "I imagine you wouldn't." He dipped his head in greeting. "My name is Cor Leonis. Crownsguard to his Imperial Majesty, King Regis Lucis Caelum."
Summer's and the rest of her team's jaws hit the floor.
"He requests an audience with you four."
In the military ranks of Atlas, there was none considered more capable than the Specialists. Each and every member was handpicked and personally named and promoted by General James Ironwood, who recognized their skills and abilities.
However, there were Huntsmen and military personnel of higher standard and ability than them. A relatively new organization that answered directly to him. The Ace Operatives, better known as the Ace Ops, was still a fledgling team, but their membership and track record spoke for itself. They handled missions Atlas deemed too dangerous for even their best to handle, took on operations Ironwood deemed too important, too vital for ordinary officers to take on.
In response to the unnatural weather phenomenon and pillar of light, there was no group better suited to investigate the anomaly and find the missing Beacon students.
Chun Gwalang, a recent recruit of the Ace Ops, was put in charge of the mission, though seniority deferred to the oldest member, that being Vine Zeki. He was a tall, thin man with pale skin and shaved hair, making him look almost like a monk. Despite his physique, he was well-known in the upper ranks of the military for his outstanding work ethic and capability in the field.
By contrast, Chun was on the short side and physically unimpressive. He had an athletic build, but it was outweighed by how messy he looked. His uniform was unkempt, his dark red locks were a tangled jungle, and his semblance was…well, it was unimpressive, to say the least. Not helping matters was how he was still getting used to his new prosthetic, having lost his arm in a prior mission.
He had not been with the Ace Ops for very long, but Chun was certain that even if he were among its founding members, he would still not believe the sight in front of him.
"Sir," Chun choked out. "Please tell me I'm not hallucinating."
Vine shook his head. "You are not."
It was a mind-boggling sight to behold. According to their geographical information, the only recorded landmasses in the surrounding area were the Southern Isles, which were hundreds of thousands of miles away. There should be nothing but an empty stretch of ocean.
Instead, they found a sprawling continent. From a bird's eye view, it was the size of Anima.
"Just…" Chun swallowed. "Just to be sure, we're both seeing a continent that, by all rights, should not be there."
"I'm afraid so," Vine replied.
"Oh, good. I'm not going insane." He shook his head in disbelief, trying to wrap his head around what he saw. Continents did not show up out of nowhere. Logically speaking, the sudden appearance of the landmass had to be because of the pillar of light, but it was still a lot to take in. "The general isn't going to believe this."
Vine peered further, looking down at the nearest edge of the continent. He found signs of civilization, implying the land was inhabited. He turned to the pilot. "Have you found any open communication channels?" he asked.
The pilot shook his head. "Not a one. I can't get any signals from the CCT Towers, either. We're far out in the boonies."
"Perhaps the reason why Team STRQ has been unable to answer Professor Ozpin's calls," the elder operative surmised.
"What should we do, sir?" Chun questioned. "Talk to the locals?"
"Too dangerous," Vine answered. "We do not know anything about the people living here. They may not speak the same language as we do. For now, we will continue our mission and gather information. We should have enough fuel to continue surveying the landmass." He looked at the pilot again. "Please keep communication channels open. There may be a chance someone may try to establish communications with us."
"Understood, sir!" the pilot saluted.
"I feel so underdressed…"
Summer fidgeted in the back of the car seat, sandwiched between Raven and Taiyang. Qrow was in the passenger seat, looking just as uncomfortable as the rest. Within half an hour, they received one shock after another. Learning they were on another continent, one from another world, and that they were asked to meet with the leader of the kingdom was enough to throw them off their game. They never anticipated being in this situation before, and they sure as hell never expected to meet with a monarchy.
Ideally, she should have said "no" or asked for time to consider. This was a lot to take in, and they had to get in touch with Ozpin. No doubt their teacher was wondering why they hadn't gotten in touch with him after they finished the mission to inform him they were on their way back. Of course, Cor's intimidating gaze and the lack of signal range caused her to fold in and accept the man's request.
If there was a silver lining, it was that they had a chance to see the sights. They hadn't had the time to appreciate the scenery before, but in the safety of a car and given time to rest, they began to appreciate the beauty of their surroundings.
"You lot seem awfully young to be carrying weapons," Cor said as he drove. "Are the lands outside that dangerous?"
"Between scum of all kinds and Grimm, yeah," Qrow shrugged. "And for the record, pal, we're nineteen. We'll be adults next year."
"And your point is…?"
Summer laughed nervously, "I-if you don't mind me asking, mister Leonis, w-what kind of person is your king?"
"King Regis is a fair and just man," Cor replied. "Though as of late, he's been forced to make some rather…difficult decisions. The kingdom's current circumstances is one of them."
"Yeah, speaking of, I gotta ask," Taiyang began nervously. "How in the hell does one guy move a continent from another world to someplace else?"
"It's a long story."
Raven huffed. "A bundle of joy, this one."
"Raven…" Summer warned. The last thing she wanted was for her and Cor to start fighting because the former was frustrated. They wanted answers, but they had to be respectful.
After a few minutes of driving, they finally saw what was no doubt the Imperial City their guide mentioned. Qrow's breath hitched several knots, as did Taiyang's. Raven's eyes went wide and stuck her head out the window to get a better look. Summer leaned forward, wanting to get a look.
The capital city of Insomnia, from a distance, looked no different than Vale, save that it was at least three times as big and had towering skyscrapers looming over the city like great, big watchtowers. Summer felt as if she were developing a fear of heights just from looking at them, wondering how small the city must be from the rooftops. In the far distance, merely a silhouette from where they were, was a silver tower.
"Wow…" Excitement swelled in her chest. "That's really Insomnia?" Cor nodded. "H-how many people live here?"
"After the immigration and evacuations when His Majesty announced the plan to move Lucis to another world?" Cor said wryly. "Around 8.3 million."
Taiyang choked. "What?! But that's–that's waaay too many people! That's like jamming a whole train car to max capacity and trying not to get crushed to death!"
"We set up small camps around the city outskirts along with temporary housing," the Crownsguard explained. "Once everything's settled down, the civil sector and council will work on relocating the civilians, help them find new homes and job opportunities in Leide, Duscae, and Cleigne. Not that it will be easy or quick. Millions of people had no idea what was going to happen when the exodus happened. Some don't even have a home left anymore."
"Were things that bad in your world?" Summer asked worriedly.
Cor's grim expression said it all. "We were being invaded, and the king didn't like the odds. When all other options failed and we ran out of alternatives, he had to make a choice. Continue to struggle and fight, or save what he could."
The four teens glanced at one another. It did sound like a difficult situation. Either the King had to continue to fight a losing battle, or escape to spare what was left from a grisly fate.
"Who…or what tried to invade you?"
"They are known as the Empire of Nifleheim. They are the most technologically advanced of all the nations of Eos, the world we hail from. And with it, they have conquered nearly the entire world bar Lucis."
That revelation gave all of them pause. A single nation…single handedly nearly conquered the whole world? Such an idea was mind boggling.
"Most technologically advanced and control freaks…sounds like Atlas to me." Qrow pointed out.
"Qrow!" Summer reprimanded.
"You know it's true."
"I take it this Atlas is similar to Nifleheim?" Cor asked with narrowed eyes.
"Well, they are the most technologically advanced out of the Kingdoms…but they're not conquerors like Nifleheim."
"No. But they are filled with stuck-up prudes with sticks up their-"
"O-KAY, I think he gets it, Qrow," Taiyang interjected.
"I'm very sorry about my friend," Summer sighed. "He and Atlesians get along like oil and water."
The dark-haired teen grumbled to himself and turned away, folding his arms like a pouting child would. Seeing the opportunity in front of her, Summer quickly changed subjects. "We saw some weird creatures while we were wandering around looking for help. Some looked like dogs with tusks and there were these, um, giraffe-looking things. They had really long necks."
"They're called Anaks and Sabertusks," Cor answered smoothly. "The Anaks are herbivores for the most part and don't attack unless they're threatened or their pack is in danger. The Sabertusks, on the other hand, are what you think they are. They're something of a local problem in Leide, but the Hunters handle them when their numbers start expanding."
Raven perked up. "Hunters?"
"A public organization," he explained. "They're similar to the Huntsmen and Huntresses you mentioned earlier. They welcome pretty much everyone from all walks of life, so long as they have combat experience of some kind. They're decent folk and they do a good job, but every now and again, there are things even they can't handle, so they post requests throughout towns for enlisting help from anyone willing to help, be it Hunters from other regions, the Crownsguard, or even the Kingsglaive."
Cor paused briefly, an unknown emotion flickering through his eyes. Summer saw his hands tighten around the steering wheel. "But, even they can't handle Daemons on their own."
"Daemons…?"
Cor did not elaborate, and based on his expression, she doubted he wanted to. The car eventually came to a brief halt when the car stopped in front of what Summer assumed was the checkpoint leading into the city. A bunch of men in tactical gear, not unlike what Atlesian soldiers might wear, approached the car. Their grip on their weapons relaxed when they saw who was in the driver seat.
"Sir Leonis!" the guard snapped into a hasty salute. "Y-you're back already from your investigation?"
"Not quite," Cor said. "Making a quick stop back at the Citadel for a moment. Anything new over here?"
"Quiet as a mouse, sir."
"Good. Stay vigilant."
"Yes, sir!"
The guard waved at his colleagues to stand down and open the gates. The car ride resumed, and Team STRQ entered Insomnia's outskirts.
"This place looks even crazier up close," Qrow whispered. "I wouldn't mind living here when I retire."
"Oh, please," Raven scoffed and rolled her eyes. "With your bad luck, you'd be out of house in a week tops."
"Hey, a guy can dream, can't he?"
"There are dreams and then there are delusions little brother." She replied.
"There you go bringing that up again. It was only five minutes. Five. Minutes."
"Still older."
Summer and Taiyang glanced at each other with a look that said "here we go again". Cor wisely ignored the banter as he drove the car through the streets of Lucis' Capital. After a few minutes, they pulled up toward a towering sky scraper. It stood several dozen stories. About halfway up, it split off into four towers that were linked up by a series of arches toward a single, central tower much narrower than the others. It was like a mix of modern and old architecture, somehow combining the traits of a skyscraper and a cathedral.
"Whoa…" The white hooded girl was in complete awe.
"That looks awesome…" Taiyang was equally amazed.
"Huh…guess that's what a modern castle would look like, huh?" Qrow mused.
Raven sat silently as she took in the grand structure before them. She knew very little about architecture, but even she knew a technological marvel when she saw it.
"This is the Citadel," Cor said as he exited the car. "The seat of power in all of Lucis. The King is expecting us."
Summer gulped. "I'm so nervous… H-hey, are we sure we're the right people for this? I-I mean, thinking about it now, aren't we, like, some kind of impromptu ambassadors right now? Are we even qualified for that kind of thing? The king's not gonna execute us because of a slip up, right?"
"Summer, calm down," Raven scolded her leader. "I'm sure it'll be fine."
"Your friend is correct," Cor replied. "Due to recent events, King Regis has been wanting to speak with people native to this world. I'm sure you have many questions for him as he has for you."
"So it's like a give and take for information?" Qrow asked.
"More or less. Follow me to the Throne room." The man said as he took the lead. The four teenagers stared after him for a second before following.
X
Regis did not expect to meet the natives of this world so quickly. Only a few hours passed since their arrival, after all. Even more surprising was how the natives arrived. It seemed that their arrival in this world caused quite a stir, knocking their air transport out and forcing them to crash into the Leide region. The pilot of the airship died, which was unfortunate to hear. The king knew the man's death was his fault, and swore he would make the proper reparations for his family when Lucis grew properly acclimated.
On the subject of the natives, Regis was shocked to learn they were teenagers, all eighteen to nineteen years of age. Even more surprising was that they were warriors of some kind, as he learned they carried weapons and studied to become a band of warriors known as Huntsman. It was a clear indicator this world was not without its own troubles, which in turn gave way to darker thoughts. Regis enacted the exodus with the hope of fleeing the threat of Niflheim, and the dark future that would claim his son and kingdom. What if he had failed and brought the danger to this world as well?
Regis steeled his nerves and banished such thoughts from his mind. He needed to be strong, now more than ever with Lucis in such a compromising situation. They needed to know more about this world, know its people, and form relationships.
At least there doesn't appear to be some sort of language barrier, he thought with wry amusement.
The king sat himself upon the throne, patiently waiting for Cor's arrival. His most trusted Crownsguard was arriving with the teenagers in tow. He would have called and asked Cor about his opinion of these young would-be warriors, but Regis wanted to see and know them personally. Much could be gleamed without bias.
He did not need to wait very long. The doors to the throne room opened, ushering in the man famed throughout Lucis as The Immortal. With him were the four children.
They're younger than I expected, he thought somberly. He looked and studied their appearances, noting how they walked and moved. The girl in the white cloak was the closest to Cor, as if leading the other three. The most striking feature he saw were her silver eyes, which gleamed in the illuminating moonlight pouring through the windows.
"Your Majesty," Cor bowed. "My apologies for returning unannounced."
Regis smiled and waved off his old friend's worries. "Peace, Cor. How goes your investigation following the exodus?"
"My report is still incomplete, but it would seem there's little change in Lucis. The Hunters are keeping an eye on the local wildlife, and we're still trying to re-establish connections with Cleigne and Duscae. Short-range communications still work as intended, thankfully."
"Any sign of Daemons?"
"None so far, though I wouldn't be surprised if they're still around."
Regis frowned slightly. He hoped the threat of Daemons was gone, but something told him that was not the case. He pushed the thought aside for the moment and directed his gaze to the children. The silver-eyed girl squeaked when his eyes fell upon her.
"These must be our guests," Regis smile warmly. "I am Regis Lucis Caelum. King of Lucis. I bid you welcome to our lands, as…unexpected as our arrival was."
"No shit," the dark-haired boy muttered, only to receive an elbow to the ribs from the woman next to him. She did not look happy with his flippancy.
The blonde-haired boy next to the silver-eyed girl bowed deeply. "M-my name is T-Taiyang Xiao-Long, Your Majesty!" he stuttered nervously. "It's, um, a-an honor to make your acquaintance!"
"Y-Yeah!" The silver-eyed girl spoke up next, equally nervous as her companion. "I-I-I'm Summer R-Rose! Leader of Team STRQ! It is a honor to-to meet you, sir!"
"My name is Raven Branwen," Raven greeted next, if curtly. "Greetings."
"Sup? Name's Qrow. Nice to meet you and all that, Kingy." Qrow waved leisurely. Summer and Raven were quickly upon him and shoved his head down in a formal bow while the former whisper-scolded him about being disrespecting royalty.
Regis couldn't help but chuckle in amusement. They seemed like a colorful cast of characters. Clearing his throat, he brought things back under control.
"It is good to meet you four," Regis said amicably. "I understand you have a great many questions about us. While I am more than happy to answer them, I believe there's more important business to be had."
"A-and that is…?"
"Your current state of being," he said simply, causing them to blink. "You seem awfully haggard. We have spare guest rooms for you to use at your leisure."
"Wait, you serious?" Qrow could not believe his ears. "You'd let us crash here? Even though we're just strangers to you?"
"It does sound unusual." Raven nodded in agreement. "We haven't even known each other for five minutes, and you are giving us a place to rest?"
"I suppose it does sound odd. However, I know well how exhausting it is on the road, as I'm sure you all have done before you met Cor." Regis answered. "I am also of the opinion that one should always extend a helping hand to others in need." What went unsaid was how his hospitality may give Lucis some good standing when the group returned to their superiors.
The king noticed how suspicious the Branwen siblings were almost immediately. While such a reaction was logical and understandable, he detected a faint hint of hostility from them as well. It was somewhat troubling, but he assumed it was simply them being cautious.
Summer and Taiyang, on the other hand, looked rather relieved. "Thank you so much!" she said, bowing almost until her forehead touched the floor. "We'll repay for this, I swear!"
Regis chuckled. "Your gratitude is enough, Miss Rose. We may speak more after you've recuperated and when you speak with your friends and family."
Hopefully by then, communications would be back up and running…
It took an hour and a half of surveillance and reconnaissance to investigate the continent from the Bullhead. True to Chun's initial observations, it was as large as Anima, with diverse and beautiful landscapes. One region in particular caught his attention, a woodland with rocky spires and a beautiful silvery crystal, almost shaped like a flower in bloom with a tower of earth jutting out from within. They took note of the cities and towns they found along the way, as well as the images of the many and varied wildlife present in the open fields and plains. One thing immediately caught his attention.
"This can't be right."
Vine looked at Chun curiously. "What do you mean?"
"We've been over this place for almost two hours, right?" he asked. Vine nodded. "And we've seen all kinds of creatures. We even saw towns and small settlements."
"Yes…?"
"Then…" Chun spread his arms questioningly. "Where are all of the Grimm?"
True to his observations, none of the Specialists have encountered any form of Grimm during their expedition. While they did take note of some of the wildlife, none of it was what they were familiar with.
Vine cupped his chin in thought. While the local fauna they have seen resembled animals they were familiar with, they possessed features that were highly unusual. Such as horns, extra spines, or spikes. Some of them seemed rather docile and paid no mind to them, while others were wary and gave warning not to disturb them.
Given how unfamiliar they were with these new species, Vine declared it would be best to stay away for the time being until they gathered more information.
But for now, they needed to proceed with the mission. "Have you found anything noteworthy?" he questioned the pilot.
"Affirmative, sir," the pilot replied. "We're coming up on a crash site. I think it's the Bullhead the students were on. Can't tell from here, but it looks like it's in pretty bad shape."
"Take us down, and we will search for survivors."
"Copy that, sir." With the order received, the pilot landed the aircraft as close as she could to the wreckage. The Specialists disembarked and begun their investigation.
"Damn…must have been a very grisly crash." Chun commented as he took in the site around them. To put it bluntly, it was a mess of charred, melted, and twisted metal. There were parts strewn everywhere. There was also debris from the destroyed cargo and miscellaneous items inside the Bullhead.
One of the Specialists also took note of a small mound that had been topped with a large stone as if it were a grave marker. Immediately realizing the implications, the soldier gave a salute to the makeshift grave.
"That isn't one of the kids, is it?" Chun asked anxiously.
Vine knelt down, gently disturbing the earth with his semblance. Rather than disturb the grave, he had his vines dig through the soil and feel the body. "No," he confirmed. "It appears to be the pilot. The body is too tall to be one of the students." He pulled his vines back and stood up, glancing around further. "There. Do you see? Footprints."
"So they managed to escape unharmed?" Chun sagged with relief. "That's good to hear. So…what do we do? See where the trail leads and see if we can find them?"
"No. By now, the trail will have gone cold. We will re-enter communication range of the CCT and present our findings to General Ironwood. Make sure to document the crash site thoroughly, leaving nothing to chance." Vine paused, looking at the grave. "...and if you can, see if you can't find the registration number of the pilot. Inform his next of kin."
Chun nodded, snapping into a salute and began to document the crash. Meanwhile, Vine studied his surroundings. Off in the distance, watching them from atop a pile of rocks, were thin dog-like creatures with tusks growing from their bottom jaw. He could see the bloodlust, the hunger in their eyes, but they dared not approach. They sensed the danger, the threat this one man presented, and knew better than to strike. Instead, they watched warily, waiting for him to make the first move.
Vine did nothing, glaring back impassively while observing the starry night sky above. The broken moon glowed just a tad brighter in his opinion.
"...what a strange feeling this place gives me," he murmured to himself. He shook his head and returned to the aircraft.
No sooner had he stepped aboard did the pilot call out to Vine from the cockpit. "Specialist Vine, sir! We have an open broadcast channel!"
"One of ours?" he called back immediately.
"Negative, sir! It's not from the CCT! I think it's local!"
"What does it say?"
"It sounds like a public service broadcast. I can barely make it out from all the static. The word 'Lucis' is getting thrown around frequently, though. I think that's the name of this place."
Lucis…
Well, at least now Vine had a name to put on it.
"...I'm sorry, I don't think I heard you correctly," Theodore started slowly, looking just as dumbfounded as the rest of the Headmasters. "Did you just say your men found a wholly new continent? In the middle of bloody nowhere?"
Ironwood looked like he didn't quite believe it himself, either. When Vine sent him the report, he triple-read it to ensure he wasn't misreading anything. The reports were detailed as always, but what they described was…shocking, if not outlandish. He knew Vine well enough to know he took his job seriously, so he doubted he was exaggerating. Every word was fact-based on his findings.
The evidence did not lie, nor did the images and footage his Ace Ops provided. Where the pillar of light once stood was a continent. A populated continent full of humans and strange creatures the likes of which he never saw before.
"It's hard to believe," Leonardo breathed. "A-are you certain this is accurate?"
"I trust my men," Ironwood responded fiercely. He would not allow anyone, not even someone he considered a friend, to cast doubt on someone he handpicked personally for the Ace Operatives. "And I know Vine. He wouldn't make up something like this. He didn't make an in-depth investigation and mainly surveyed the continent. He also found the bullhead carrying Team STRQ. It apparently crash-landed in the northern part of the continent. The pilot was killed, but your students made it out of it in one piece it seems. The pilot was given a burial. Unfortunately, the trail they left behind is cold."
Ozpin sighed, partly in relief and partly in concern. "While I have faith in my students' ability to defend themselves, the fact that they're apparently wandering unknown territory worries me."
"H-have you made contact with the natives there?" Leonardo questioned. "What do we know of the language?"
"Specialists Gwalang and Zenki did not make contact with the natives, but they were able to listen in on an open broadcast," Ironwood said. "The natives of this 'Lucis' speak the same language, but they weren't able to extract much in the way of information. From what Vine could get out of the broadcast, it seems like Lucis underwent something they're calling the Exodus."
"Exodus, hm…" Ozpin hummed. "Given the events that happened, it seems as if Lucis and its inhabitants had evacuated from somewhere and arrived here. Between the lack of Grimm and the…unusual wildlife we've seen thus far, I have half a mind to wonder if they are even native to Remnant."
"Oz, are you saying that…they just left their world and this landmass was transported here? That sounds absurd," Ironwood voiced his skepticism.
"Perhaps, but what other possibility exists in this series of circumstances? A flash of light and a strange new land appearing out of thin air practically instantaneously? It seems to fit well with that assumption."
"Maybe so, but if this Lucis truly did teleport here from another realm, then wouldn't these bizarre weather patterns be the result of their actions?"
"Perhaps, but as you mentioned previously, we are sorely lacking in information," Ozpin pointed out calmly, neither denying or agreeing with him. "Ultimately, however, the decision about whether to contact Lucis will ultimately be up to the Councils in the end."
Theodore scoffed. "As if they'll be useful," he said dismissively. "Times being what they are now, unless it affects their popularity and approval, they couldn't give a rat's ass about what goes on with the rest of the world."
Ironwood frowned. As much as he liked to disagree, the Atlesian Council had been less than cooperative for some time. Current authority figures in the council were members of the old guard, influential and stuck in the old ways. Some were people he respected and admired, but they were not infallible. They made questionable decisions before, some he disagreed with, among them giving Jacques Schnee some…questionable leeway regarding Dust management. The man was a conniving opportunist who turned a once respectable company into a money making machine to line his own pockets. Dust came in greater supply and the Schnee Dust Company was stronger than ever, but its treatment of workers, Faunus and otherwise, was a marked contrast and sour point to many, including himself.
He reported his operatives' findings of Lucis and the continent to his superiors, which included the Atlesian Council. He received no word as of yet, but one of his friends and colleagues among the lower-ranks spoke of ongoing heated debates. One side wanted to be aggressive, question Lucis' intentions, and possibly attack them for some asinine reason. Another side wanted to open communications, find out their reasons, and establish diplomatic relationships if the other party was willing.
This was not the first time the Council locked itself into a political debate. Ironwood knew it would be weeks before they came to a decision. By then, the time to act would be too late.
"What about Team STRQ?" Ironwood pressed, hoping Ozpin might have some idea of what to do. They needed more information. Those students were in uncharted territory, but they were now also their only means of credible information. If they were anything like Ozpin claimed, then Team STRQ was among the brightest of this generation. They were survivors. "Are we just going to leave them to fend for themselves?"
His friend took a long drink from his mug. Contrary to Ironwood's hopes, the smile Ozpin sported did nothing to ease his concerns. "The decision to contact Lucis is up to the Council," he repeated. "But they can't exactly stop me from taking some time off, can they?"
Leonardo sighed in exasperation, cradling his head in his hands. Theodore fell out of frame, his laughter nearly throwing his Scroll off the stand. Ironwood shook his head, unsure whether to follow Leonardo's example or mourn the fact he followed such a troublesome person.
"What the heck is all this?! Did we step into a five-star hotel or something?!"
For once, Raven could not blame Summer for overreacting. Even she found herself gobsmacked, flapping her gums in shock with strangled noises coming from her throat. As a member of a bandit tribe who lived in the harsh, unforgiving wilds of Anima, they lived in all manner of places. Luxury was something unfamiliar to the Branwens, save for the times when they scored something nice and valuable. On a few, rare occasions when they took over small-time villages, they slept in well-built homes and hostels, all of which were a step-up from the dingy cloths and sleeping bags.
The makeshift bunk beds in the student dormitories were nice, Raven would admit. Often she found herself lost in deep slumber, unwilling to remove herself from her bed the moment she threw on the comforters.
Beacon's dormitories paled in comparison to the "guest room" King Regis offered them.
"What part of this is a guest room?" Qrow wheezed.
"...Are you sure he didn't take us to some Penthouse suite or something?" Taiyang questioned after he finally rebooted himself.
The four stunned teens stood in the middle of what could be best described as such. It was a large room that practically took up an entire section of the floor they were on. It looked like a living room with polished marble floors, a chandelier hanging overhead, and a balcony with a magnificent Insomnia view. It also led to multiple rooms that had yet to open for they were still taking in the entrance itself.
Off to the side, Cor had a small smirk of amusement. It was always fun to see people's reactions to this. "It is a guest room. One of the ones reserved for VIP personnel."
"We…we're VIPs?" Summer turned to him. "But we're just students!"
"And you are also the first natives of this world who has come to contact us since our arrival. So His Majesty believed this would be the most fitting room for you while you all recuperate."
"I ain't complaining'!" Qrow cackled. "Where's the freaking shower?! I'm calling dibs!"
"Oh, like hell you are!" Taiyang snarled after him.
Raven face-palmed. "Ugh. Men!"
"I'll leave you all for the night," Cor said with a nod. "Try to stay out of trouble in the meantime. Also, I'm sure this goes without saying, but don't go wandering around the Citadel without supervision. Things here are still tense, and people are more than a little jumpy."
"What, they'll try to attack us on sight or something?"
"Something like that," Cor shrugged. "Like I said before. Times are stressful." He gave them another nod and left the room. The door closed shut behind him.
Summer's gaze lingered for a moment before she sighed and looked at the white marshmallow in front of her. She could not resist the temptation. "Banzai!" she cried and threw herself into the soft, fluffy embrace of a warm bed. Her body all but sank into it. Summer groaned and whined in comfort and joy, wishing the bed would swallow her whole. "Sooo soooft…"
"I swear, it's like I'm the only sane person here," Raven muttered as she sat down on one of the nearby chairs. "Can't you guys take this seriously? We're not safe."
"How can you say that?" Summer asked, flopping onto her back. "The king and Mister Leonis seemed nice."
"You're also forgetting they came here out of freaking nowhere. I don't know if that story of being from another world is true or not, but what I do know is that continents don't just move by themselves, and you don't run from something unless it's trying to kill you. For all we know, this Niflheim Empire of theirs might show up at our doorstep too."
"You worry too much."
"No, I don't think I worry enough," Raven sniffed. "You're too naive, Summer. Mark my words. Your kindness will be the death of you."
"Kindness is what will make this world better!" Summer refuted, raising a fist into the air as if in a sign of solidarity.
"Again, too naive," Raven sighed. There was a brief pause, then her lips quirked a tad upwards. "Yet it's strange how your optimism is so infectious."
The silver-eyed girl grinned in response. Raven wondered how she could be so optimistic at times, much less have faith in people. For as long as she could remember, Raven abided by the laws and outlook of the tribe. Trust no one except yourself. Expect no one to save you. The only one you can rely on is yourself. Such was the way of the Branwen, such was her way of life. The past two years in Beacon were…interesting, as were the people she came to call teammates. Taiyang was a brute as much as he was a fool, but he was nothing if not honest. He wore his heart on his sleeves. Summer, on the other hand, was her total opposite; chipper, optimistic, always believing the best in everyone. That said, she wasn't totally naive; they had plenty of experience dealing with people who hid their true colors.
Their missions led them all across Vale, and in their current year, they dealt with not only Grimm, but also all sorts of lowlifes. Bandits and common criminals were almost a regular occurrence when they weren't fighting monsters. Some were forced into lives of crime because of circumstance, whereas others found enjoyment in the misery of others.
Raven couldn't bring herself to care about any of that. They were the enemy, and therefore she struck them down. Were it not for the troublesome laws the Huntsmen abided by, she would have killed them on the spot. Worse, Summer got it into her head to try and convince the criminals to turn their lives around. Some took her advice, whereas others refused.
Truthfully…it was sheer naïveté talking. Every time she tried, Raven had the strong urge to face palm. She and her partner often found themselves at odds. Both sat at the far ends of the spectrum. Raven did not care for the criminals and would have simply struck them down. Whereas Summer was merciful, trying to appeal to their better natures, even if it might not exist.
The Branwen girl just could not comprehend it. That type of mindset. It was incompatible with what she was brought up on. In a way, Summer Rose was anathema to her.
…that said, Raven could admit how she admired Summer. She was strong, both physically and mentally. When the going got tough, she shouldered on and pushed forward. It was partly why she respects her and her leadership.
There are times when she disagrees with her beliefs and mindset, even questioning her orders. But when it comes down to it, there is no one else Raven would trust her life with most. Even more than her own brother. Even Qrow, her dear brother by blood and bond, fell into Summer's orbit. It was small, but subtle; her brother was changing. He had no qualms about following her in learning how to fight more effectively for the sake of the tribe, but every so often, he had that look on his face, that hesitance when faced with a situation where the most optimal choice would be to destroy the problem instead of subduing it.
Perhaps we're growing soft, Raven thought to herself, eventually joining Summer in relaxation.
She had no idea whether it was a bad thing.
But for now though…she doesn't hate it. It just became another part of their lives.
…much like how this new Kingdom is…for better or worse.
If you had told her she'd be resting in a luxurious suite in a new Kingdom that appeared from another world…she'd ask how anyone could get that high.
But here she was now.
"What do you think of them?"
Regis pondered the question for but a moment. His brief conversation with them was fresh in his mind as was their appearance. "...they are quite young," he said with a grim look etched onto his face. "Younger than even some of our Kingsguard. Their choice of weaponry does not inspire confidence as to what sort of world we have found ourselves in."
Team STRQ looked no older than seventeen, eighteen at oldest. The youngest member of the Kingsguard was a young woman of at least twenty years of age. With only so little information to go on until they entered proper discussions and talks with their new worldly neighbors, it distressed Regis to know that youths were expected to fight these "Grimm" creatures. Was it normal for youngsters to fight, or were they simply a group of talented youths and therefore the exception?
Whatever the case, it left a bitter taste in the king's mouth.
Their weapons were another point of worry. From what Cor told him, they were technologically advanced, capable of transforming from melee shapes like swords and an ax to firearms. He'd only glanced at the weapons stored on their persons, and as amazing as they seemed, it left some unfortunate implications as to how great a threat the Grimm were to necessitate such sophisticated weaponry in the first place.
To create and utilize such armaments in order to combat a tenacious, vile threat. That they would recruit even young individuals like STRQ to take part in the war against this seeming darkness.
Truly, a world of bloody evolution.
Despite the differences, this world and their former one were more alike than he initially anticipated. Where people take up arms to combat monsters and a never ending Scourge.
Worse yet, there's no telling whether we've doomed them further, Regis thought, thinking of the daemons that haunt the night. The barrier kept them contained and at bay, but even with it, there were reports of daemons cropping up within the barrier's boundaries. Thankfully, daemonic incursions were few and small in number, though that did not make them any less of a threat. If the daemons appeared in this world as well, Regis may very well have brought more catastrophe upon the people he sought to ally with.
And that was assuming they were good people.
"They said they were students at an academy called Beacon," Cor relayed his findings, unaware of his king's troubled thoughts. "Based on what they've told us, I believe this Beacon is some sort of combat institution, training warriors on how to combat the Grimm. We're still getting updates from all across Lucis and Duscae, but so far, there's no mention or sign of black creatures with white masks, so none have found their way here yet."
Yet. Cor spoke as if it was almost a certainty. Regis wanted to believe otherwise, but with so little knowledge, who was to say the barrier proved unable to repel them?
"I wasn't able to ask them about their government, but from the sounds of it, their headmaster holds a certain degree of political influence. With any luck, we might have earned some brownie points."
Clarus scoffed. "If we're lucky," he emphasized. "While I hate to be the voice of paranoia, I cannot help but find it suspicious how…quickly we established first contact with our new neighbors."
"You think them spies?" Regis asked with a raised eyebrow.
"Highly unlikely," Cor scoffed. "While it's a damned miracle we somehow share the same language, their accent is not Niflheim."
A knock at the door disturbed their conversation. "Beg your pardon, your majesty," a servant said. "Sir Cid is here to see you."
The three men blinked, staring at one another in befuddlement before looking back at the door. "Enter," Regis called out.
The door opened. Stepping into the room was a face Regis had not seen in years. Age seemed relatively kind on his old friend; a gray beard, leathery wrinkles dotted across his face, and a steely look that would unnerve even the most stout-hearted of Crownsguard. Looking at his companion for the first time in years, Regis wondered how long it'd been since they last saw each other, much less spoke. Ever since his ascension to the throne, their bond became strained to the point visits and calls involved heated voices more often than not.
Recent years saw them slowly repairing that bond, especially with the impending Exodus. They spoke not long ago, just before the decision to enact the Exodus was finalized, and while Regis was happy to reconnect with his friend and wayward companion, it was clear they were not the same reckless band they were in his youth.
Cid Sophiar huffed, taking one look at the assembled men in front of him before scoffing. "Sheesh. What's got you three's panties in a twist? You'd think you just heard Niflheim somehow came running after ya."
"Be serious, Cid," Clarus admonished. "The Exodus was exhausting for all of us. And recent events have given way to potential complications."
"Oh? That mean you met some of this world's native folk?" he asked, already picking up what Clarus meant. "That was fast. Would've thought it take longer for you to extend a hand, Reggie."
"Believe me, friend. I would have taken more time to prepare. But they came to us first," the King replied. "They quite literally fell into our laps. Their airship crashed in the middle of the region and trekked their way to a certain gas station."
Cid hiked an eyebrow past his hat. "No foolin'? They wound up near Hammerhead of all places, eh? Well, suppose there are worse places to crash land." He walked over to the nearest sofa and plopped himself down on it. Once he was comfortable, he dug into his jacket in search of his trusty cigarette case. "They decent folk, at least?"
"They are children," Regis stressed. "And have been taught to wield weapons the likes of which I've never seen. Evidently, this world we now find ourselves in is not without its own brand of dangers. Between that and their accent, I wish to give them the benefit of a doubt."
"But ol' Clarus here thinks otherwise?"
The balding man grimaced. "I'm merely advising caution, is all. We're in uncharted waters, figuratively and literally. One misstep could be disastrous for us, especially at such an early stage."
"For Astrals' sake, like Reggie needs to be reminded," Cid barked and lit up his cigarette. Cor glared in disapproval, but the mechanic could care less of his opinion. "Even if these kids turn out to be snakes, at least we actually know what kind we're dealing with. They tell you anything about our new home?"
Regis told his old friend everything they learned so far; of the institution the students called Beacon, of the Creatures of Grimm they hunted, and of the inhabitants. They said little of their government, but one piece of information that intrigued the ruling powers of Lucis was the existence of a sub-category of homo sapiens known as "Faunus". Described as near-human in appearance, they were considered a separate species while possessing animalistic traits, such as a tail, an extra set of ears, scales, fins, etc.
"And that's to say nothing of the fact this world's moon is shattered," Cor grunted. "Not even the students seem to know what caused it. It's been like that for as long as anyone can remember."
"Which means whatever caused it probably ain't around anymore," Cid offered. "Or maybe its takin' a dirt nap. Still, folks with animal parts, eh? That must be a hell of a sight. What about this Atlas place they mentioned? They said it was another kingdom?"
"Yes, though one of the students spoke of it rather unfavorably. It seems to have an emphasis on military power. Loathe as I am to make hasty judgment, I'd advise approaching them cautiously when we are ready to make contact."
"Assuming our new neighbors give you time, you mean," Cid pointed out. "In a way, winding up with a bunch of kids ended up screwin' you over. I wouldn't be surprised if people already know we're here."
"I would be amazed if they didn't," Clarus huffed. "The Exodus was hardly subtle."
Regis grimaced. The experience was quite vivid, if not stomach-churning. Although he focused his attention on empowering Sylvia and powering the spell that would spirit away Lucis to parts unknown, he saw the blinding light and the flow of power exploding out from the crystal during the process. He feared Clarus' words might be truer than either of them realized.
"What will we do with the students in the meantime?" Clarus asked, bringing the conversation back to its original topic. "Shall I have the Kingsguard continue keeping watch?"
Regis creased his brow in thought for a moment, then shook his head. "No. We will give them a degree of freedom. Simply restrict their access to certain areas. I will offer them a degree of trust, both as an olive branch and in the name of fostering good faith."
"Be that as it may, I also wish to emphasize caution, Regis," His oldest friend reminded. "We are still in the dark on quite a bit of things."
"I am well aware, Clarus. But I'd rather we be amicable in hopes of better relations rather than start things on a sour note with excessive caution and suspicion," Regis rebutted.
"So while the kids are here, any idea when their leaders are due to arrive?" Cid questioned. "I imagine it won't take long before somebody realizes the brats are missing, presumably in the middle of nowhere?"
"Hopefully, not tonight."
It was late in the afternoon when it happened. Team STRQ had been lounging in their room after having slept in and spending most of their time going over books regarding Lucis' founding history and its geography when Cor arrived, informing them the king wanted to meet with them. Nervous pits formed in their stomachs as they followed the Crownsguard, wondering what it was Regis wanted to speak with them about.
When they arrived at the room the king was in and stepped inside, they found a familiar face sitting across from Lucis' king, a cane in one hand and a steaming mug of hot chocolate in the other.
"Afternoon, students," Professor Ozpin smiled. "I've heard you had quite the adventure last night."
CHAPTER END
Preview:
"Not all Kingdoms will be welcoming, much less after what's happened. The unusual phenomenon the exodus caused… I'm not sure where the death toll sits, but I guarantee, people will not be happy."
SkyRig: This chapter was first started in...2023 I think it was? Yeah, early to mid 2023. And we're just NOW getting back to it. I am so sorry about that.
This chapter was entirely written in Google Docs, something I am very much not used to. I've also enlisted Daemon of Wrath's help in writing this chapter, despite my attempts to rewrite the opening chapters myself. Also, this freaking thing is over twenty, going on thirty pages long. Like what the fuck. I haven't written something this long in, like…forever!
By the way, in regards to the OC character Chun Gwalang, I kept his name and meaning in compliance with both the fairy tale naming theme and color rule. In Swahili, "Chun Gwa" means orange. "Lang" refers to Andrew Lang, the author of the Swahili fairy tale "The One-Handed Girl". The one-arm is referenced by the fact he has a prosthetic arm.
Oh yeah, on another note, I have a pa(t)reon. I don't have much of anything up there beyond, like, two stories, but if you're interested in checking it out, give pa(t)reon / SkyRig a looksie.
I'll let Daemon of Wrath handle the rest of the A/N.
Daemon of Wrath: Man, time sure flies. Can't believe its been around 2 years since we updated this. It definitely was overdue. Welp, butter late than never. Sorry it took so long. But numerous factors got in the way. We still intend to work on this. It will just take a while. See you all next time.