Bloody hell! I was starting to think the site was going to remain inaccessible for much longer and I'd have to postpone this chapter until it was fixed. Still no idea if it's fully fixed for everyone to access, whether reviews work and view counts will be accessible. Oh well. Just take it as it goes I suppose. Here's the next chapter as promised. Let's go!


Arc 2: Chapter 16


Ozpin stared impassively at the council-members and Noble House Heads seated around him at the circular conference table, hands steeped as he maintained a poker face.

Several dust-powered lamps hung high over each seat, illuminating the members sat currently at them. A pale golden light enveloped the entire room in a warm hue, revealing a circular room with stained windows in a colourful mosaic pattern, the stone supports separating each one housing a single banner of the Kingdom of Vale hanging down and pressed against it.

A set of impressive sturdy timber doors remained sealed shut on one side of the room, and directly opposite them on the other side of the large table, sat a massive cushioned timber chair, more akin to a miniature throne, at which the head monarch currently was seated. The current King of Vale. A slightly overweight man in his sixties with a trimmed greying beard, and heavyset eyes that revealed their fatigue and weariness.

A decorative silver crown inlaid with cut and polished gems rested atop his head of grey hair. Meanwhile, a set of gold-trimmed scarlet robes adorned his body, complete with decorative embroidery.

The outfit was excessive and garish, and strictly ceremonial in nature, but that didn't stop the King from wearing it.

From the King's left, working in a circle all the way to the person seated on his immediate right, was the heads of the noble families, starting with Henry Winchester, a stern man with ginger-brown hair immaculately slicked back, and sporting a large, bushy moustache. His two-piece grey suit only accentuated his bulging muscles and barrel-chest, and the faint scars on his skin showed he was no stranger to combat.

Seated next to him with an equally stern and strict look was Nicholas Arc, an equally physically impressive man with short-cropped blond hair parted to one side, and a neatly trimmed moustache and beard. Instead of a suit, he espoused a traditional suit of white armour with gold inlays and artwork bearing the Arc Household family crest; a golden Gryffin.

Beside him sat another man with a neatly manicured brown moustache and neatly combed hair, though clearly less muscular and much older, sporting a brown two-piece suit. Merlin Goodwitch, and the man's stern expression and narrow, sharp features certainly put Henry and Nicholas to shame.

Next was a middle-aged woman with brown hair tied up into a bun, though a few greying strands could be seen revealing themselves. A cleanly-pressed black dress-shirt hugged her slimmer frame, and the only signs of her age were the faint creases showing in the corners of her sharp calculating eyes on an otherwise marble-smooth and clean face. Carmine Adel.

Seated beside her was a rather heavyset woman with a round pudgy face, and beady eyes glinting behind sharp glasses. A crimson dress and white elbow-length gloves clung to her obese body like a second skin. Rosaline Tully, another noble scion.

And finally, at the end opposite the king, and representing the last of the prominent noble houses, was General of the Grand Armies, Alexander Verdun. Dressed in a suit of dulled silver armour, complete with blue trimmings and engravings representing Vales colours, the man was pushing his mid-sixties, and combined with his balding scalp, grey moustache and sideburns, and arrogant gaze, he was a prime example of how Vale, despite some of its advancements, was held hostage by its ancient traditions. And the head of its still traditional and medieval army was a prime example.

Moving on to the other side of the table sat the members of Democratic Council, a unified collection of elected private citizens or minor noble houses that lacked the clear wealthy reserves of the powerful noble heads seated opposite them, but instead held the popular vote of Vale's masses, either through prior achievements, or current election promises.

While many nobles disdained the idea of having to share a seat of power with 'commoners', Ozpin was actually pleased with the development as it prevented political stagnation and allowed for opportunities to advance forward in the technological, finance, and defence sectors. Or at least, that was the good theory behind it. He wasn't blind to the many faults and issues that pervaded the council.

Still, the implementation of a shared monarchy with a democratic polity was certainly a step forward compared to the outdated monarchy employed by places like Mistral or Vacuo, who were rife with conflict and power struggles, often violent.

The first councilman, or woman in this case, was a rather mousy looking young woman with a squirrely face and anxious eyes that darted around uncertainly as she kept her hands neatly folded on, or rather tightly gripping, the hem of her dress skirt, her white blouse done up to the top button so tightly she looked like she was visibly choking on it. Miss Anna Azureland.

Next was an older gentleman espousing a twopiece black suit, a monocle over one eye, with a bushy moustache drooping down to his chin hiding his otherwise constantly thinned lips and expression. His hair had long since left him, with the few greying strands left combed down the side to reveal his otherwise pale head. Arthur Rainart. A man not to be trifled with, and with significant power despite being a minor noble. He controlled all of the commercial shipping ports in Vale, and while there was a limit to his authority, that didn't mean he couldn't monopolise trade abroad by imposing tariffs on imports and exports alike. While such taxes always were done on behalf of the King, he received more than his fair share of the profit.

Seated beside him was a younger man, about the same age as Miss Anna, though much more confident and charismatic if his confident, warm smile that bordered on arrogant was any indicator. Black shoulder length hair was slicked back into a pompadour and held in place by copious amounts of gel, so much so that his hair was as reflective as Arthur Rainharts bald head in the light.

A newly elected up-and-coming politician, the young Robert Eschando wore a two-piece black suit, much like his other councilmember counterparts.

The next council member was an older woman with wrinkled features and light makeup which did little to hide her age. Her black hair was white in many parts, and it too was tied into a perfect bun, revealing expensive earrings hanging from her lobes, and a pearl necklace over her blouse and dress jacket. Her hands were folded neatly on the table as she regarded everyone coolly, her face refusing to betray an emotion other than a collected calm. Margaret Gemison.

And finally, another old man who held the seat that Ozpin himself was entitled to, but actually gifted to expand the council itself and lend it a more vocal voice in matters. Councilman Rudy Powderman. Dressed in a two-piece black suit like all of his compatriots, the man had beady eyes hidden underneath wrinkles that did little to belie his greed.

And then there was Ozpin himself, seated at the King's immediate right. His and Henry's positions at the table were not random. They were indicative of the influence both men held, and their overall authority in regards to affairs of the Kingdom. Though, sometimes Ozpin wished Henry Winchester did not hold as much sway, considering his sometimes questionable businesses and associates. Still, the Kingdom was alive today, and likely would be tomorrow, so it wasn't as if Henry was the worst person to have an immediate ear of the King's. Just certainly not the best.

General Alexander coughed, his voice raw and husky, before continuing his report for the King.

"And as I was saying, our borders remain secure, and through the efforts of this esteemed council," he inclined his head to the King, "our neutrality will remain unquestioned in relations to the evergrowing conflict of these Menagerian savages. The war will not spill over to our borders, and if it threatens to do so, we will be more than ready. With the financial backings and support of this council, we will be able to maintain our strength."

Some of the Democratic Councilmen looked relieved, while the nobles failed to show any emotion, except Rosaline who smiled approvingly.

Ozpin's smile was thin and tight. So far, he was not impressed.

"Our borders remain secure to these threats that you perceive, yet I must ask. At what cost?"

The council shifted uncomfortably, and only those with actual Huntsman expertise remained unfazed.

"So far, you have discussed at great lengths the deployment of Hunters to help reinforce our borders, the establishment of demilitarised zones surrounding our Kingdom, and the tightening of our shipping and trade lanes between communities and allies abroad. You have also made mention of 'further deployment' of all active Huntsmen."

He levelled an unimpressed look with Alexander who returned it with ten times the ferocity.

"What I would like to know is how you can justify international security at the expense of domestic safety, especially when you are aware of how unstable our Kingdom is right now with the growing threat of the Grimm?"

"Headmaster, please," placated Rosaline with a sickly sweet voice that was entirely fake.

"Our dear General has just stated he has put measures in place to curb any potential threats. The specifics would be lost on not just us, but you as well. They aren't pertinent to this council at all."

"Hmm, well, I beg to differ, Miss Tully. Especially when there are valid concerns regarding the misappropriation of Kingdom assets, and what essentially amounts to the poaching of actively deployed Huntsmen teams out of high risk areas, all to mitigate political concerns over a conjured threat that this very council means to assure us is irrelevant because of neutrality pact. A threat, I might remind you, that is on an entirely separate continent."

By the time he was finished, Ozpin's voice had grown in volume and consternation, and some of the members present had the good grace to look visibly chastised or sheepish. That was not good enough in his eyes however.

"And in regards to your comments, miss Tully, about such information being above us all and not in any way pertinent to not just myself, but the very ruling monarch of this Kingdom? Such rhetoric is the height of foolishness and arrogance. That is a very dangerous view, and such an attitude is what costs lives, miss Rosaline. As it already has."

"Headmaster," warned the General. "The situation regarding Menagerie is under control, and frankly, beyond your purview. You lack the finesse and experience when it comes to matters of human relations, and such should not stress over it."

"When you start giving orders to my Huntsmen and involve them in wider conflicts, it actually does fall under my purview, General."

Rosaline's lip curled downward ever so slightly.

It was Henry Winchester who spoke up in defence of Ozpin.

"As loathe as I am to agree with the Headmaster, he is much more capable and educated in these matters than you seem to give him credit for. And he does in fact raise a very good point. What situation? The Kingdom of Vale has long since proclaimed its neutrality in the ongoing conflict. Other than maintaining border security along our coast lines, there is little more action needed to be taken at this stage. Why must we take further action for a duty that is strictly your responsibility, and furthermore, why must we contribute our resources when you AND Miss Tully refuse to explain what your specific recourse of action would detail? Please answer this council that question, and in detail."

Alexander went red in the face, and Rosaline looked visibly offended.

After a moment of Alexander spluttering and attempting to form a coherent sentence, Ozpin sighed.

"You have no answer, do you."

"The matters of the Kingdom's safety fall under my purview. Vale city is your responsibility Mister Winchester. Headmaster," coughed Alexander.

"Correction. The safety of Vale Kingdom falls under the purview of this entire council. Your responsibility, General, is to ensure our active and reserve militaries remain stationed and battle-ready. Your authority does not extend to poaching my limited Huntsmen and Hunter Garrisons to serve as your own private mercenary force to parade around and intimidate other noble and social castes!"

Ozpin's lips were drawn thin as he made his displeasure known.

Letting loose a sigh, he pinched the bridge of his nose before ultimately removing his glasses and pulling a small handkerchief with which to polish them.

"But I suppose I can hardly put the entire blame on your shoulders, dear General. Such actions involve more than one perpetrator. Am I correct Miss Tully?"

"Headmaster. You are clearly overstepping your bounds," warned Rosaline.

He paused his cleaning, and his unimpressed eyes met Rosaline's.

"Am I? My duty as Headmaster is more than just ensuring the next future generations of Hunters and Huntsmen. It is to actively keep humanities primary mortal threat and true enemy at bay."

"Yes yes," dismissed councilman Rudy with a casual wave of his hand.

"The Grimm. You have mentioned the threat they pose plenty of times. And it is negligible."

Ozpins eye's narrowed, but it was the outraged and furious expressions of all the other nobles with the exception of Miss Tully and General Alexander that signified the change in tone for the meeting.

"Negligible? You say?" Intoned Ozpin with a dangerous voice, and instantly Rudy lost his conviction and backed down with a nervous gulp.

"W-well, they are no longer a threat Vale has to contend with any more. They haven't been for the past several generations."

"That would be because, unlike you, I've been doing my damn job in allocating the necessary Huntsman and Hunter resources to secure this city. Because of the Winchester, Arc, Goodwitch and Adel families for producing quality Huntsmen, Huntresses and Hunters for generations with which to combat them, and die for. All so you can sit here and lecture me about how unnecessary said Huntsmen are while you steal them from me and undermine my decisions. At the cost of thousands of lives!"

"The citizens of Vale are safe, Ozpin," reassured Margaret with an annoyed frown.

"Oh really? Perhaps in the city. Though our record crime rate in recent years would beg to differ. But that is not what I am referring to."

He placed his glasses back on, and instantly he seemed much more menacing and intimidating to the council.

"I am talking about our outer settlements, and our frontier towns. In the past several months, seven have already fallen to the Grimm. Saint, was among the latest to fall."

There was a quiet murmur of surprise and shock amidst the council, but Ozpin continued.

"Over ten thousand people, YOUR people, were killed. The ones that elected you. The ones that you promised to keep safe. The ones that you condemned when you took away their assigned Huntsmen retinue in favour of a single undermanned and underequipped regular Hunter Garrison for an entire town and region."

Margaret clamped up, and Rudy refused to look Ozpin in the eyes.

"Tell me, councilman Powderman," asked Ozpin calmly, his piercing gaze tearing into Rudy.

"Why did you take my Huntsmen away from these frontier towns, knowing full well that as border settlements, they were in need of the most protection that could be afforded to them?"

Rosaline spoke up in Rudy's defence.

"Because we needed their strength elsewhere."

"Hmm. Yes. I should have known you had a hand in this Miss Tully."

Councilman Robert interjected.

"It was a unanimous decision, Headmaster."

Ozpin raised an eyebrow at the young man, and he instantly felt all eyes suddenly on him. Nonetheless he pressed on.

"The role of this council is to deal with threats both domestic and abroad. And with the current war raging on, even though we have advocated neutrality, it was unanimously agreed upon that allocating several Huntsmen teams as a force deterrent would show strength to not just Menagerie, but also our current allies."

Ozpin wanted to shake his head.

"Councilman. My role is to protect us against these very domestic threats you mention. The ones literally crawling throughout our Kingdom. The ones with teeth as large as your head, and a reputation of bloodlust so extreme that it is a miracle your fearmongering hasn't brought a calamity upon us the likes of which we haven't seen since the Dark Ages. Truly?! What do you expect will happen when you deprive our communities of the necessary protection they need?"

"Headmaster, with all due respect, we have not received sufficient reports regarding the threat the Grimm pose. It became more pressing for this council to react to the potential threat that a new Kingdom previously unheard of might pose, especially when they sacked Vacuo and declared war on Mistral," came the reply from Arthur Rainhart.

"Reports have been provided, actually," interjected Nicholas darkly.

"So do not sit there and lie, Councilman Rainhart."

The accused man visibly seethed, while councilman Rudy responded in his stead.

"A signed statement saying that a town has fallen or that 'Grimm are present, send help' is very vague information, and does little to offer statistical evidence nor information in regards to an appropriate logistical response. So no, a report has NOT been provided. At all!"

Ozpin frowned while the man ranted.

"What? Would you prefer we mobilise the entire army to vanquish a couple beasts? All because a few people who chose to live out in the wilds died? The entire city would face starvation due to the costs and logistics of such an undertaking! It is hardly proportional."

"Esteemed councilman. I hope you are not daring to suggest human worth to me," snapped Ozpin, his voice ice cold and expression hard.

Rudy instantly backtracked.

"Not at all! All I am saying is the response should be proportional to the events and actions preceding them! A response we can only decide upon if we are granted a more accurate picture!"

"That wouldn't be necessary if you would stop conspiring with other council members to deprive our communities of Huntsmen," stressed Ozpin tightly.

"Well, we can't have everything Ozpin," chastised miss Tully as if she were a parent enforcing rules on a petulant child.

Margaret, Alexander and Rudy all nodded.

"Precisely," agreed Rudy.

"We are trying to keep the number of threats we endure to a minimum, and right now, the war with Menagerie requires careful management and the use of an extended show of force. Besides, while these losses have been painful, you have managed thus far. Humanity has long prevailed before Huntsmen were created. We will continue to do so even now. What more do you want, Ozpin?"

Ozpin grimaced, biting back the urge to groan.

"What I want, Councilman, is for you to leave my Huntsmen alone and quit clogging our bureaucracy with the lives of the very people you swore an oath to help protect. However, what I want is ultimately wishful thinking, as you have demonstrated quit clearly to me that you are quite adamant about this path you are choosing. So it comes down to a matter of what I need, Councilman Powderman."

Ozpin leaned forward on the table to face Rudy who grimaced.

"And what do you need, then, Ozpin?"

"I need you to formally step down from your position on the Democratic Council."

The man's eyes went wide with indignation, and Miss Tully's eyebrows shot up high in surprise.

The other councilmembers shared looks of surprise and disbelief, with the exception of Ms Adel and Mr Goodwitch. Nicholas felt his lips thin while Henry let loose a faint amused snort.

"I beg your pardon?" Rudy was stunned in both speech and expression.

"You may," acknowledged Ozpin as he leaned back slowly into his high chair.

Rudy glanced around, exhaling sharply through his nose like a horse readying itself for a rallying charge.

"You jest. Enough with this disrespect, Headmaster. We are all trying to work together towards a common goal – "

"Do not sit there and politick your way out with some romanticised speech about unity and the value of integrity and honour when your actions have helped kill over thirty thousand people in the past two months alone, and would see numerous more dead, Councilman."

Ozpin's scathing words bit deeply in Rudy and he found himself suddenly sitting up a lot more straight.

"This afternoon, you will give a speech and letter to your constituents explaining you will be relinquishing your seat on the Democratic Council back to me in light of your recent failures and gross misconduct which has resulted in compromising the lives of numerous settlements. Following your resignation, you will take the time to reflect on your failures and seek to provide compensation for the families that you have failed. Am I clear, Rudy Powderman."

Miss Tully was the first to object.

"You can't just forcefully evict the councilman from his elected seat on the Democratic Council! The public will be outraged!"

Henry snorted.

"As if you care about the public and their opinions. The thoughts and feelings of the mass peasantry revolts you." Rosaline glared at Henry with tightened lips.

"Miss Tully. Members of this council," began Ozpin slowly. "I would seek to remind you that former councilman Rudy Powderman is actually not an elected member of this council. Not in the same capacity as the rest of the members of the Democratic Council."

He turned his stern gaze over to Rudy, looking him dead-set in the eye.

"You occupy my seat on the Democratic Council that I lawfully have a claim to. A seat that I generously suggested be donated to an outstanding individual of great merit to help give said Democratic Council are larger voice and more sway in decisions of this Grand Council."

He returned his gaze back to Rosaline who looked like she had tasted a bitter lemon.

"So, actually, Miss Tully, I have every right to strip Rudy of this seat, because it is not actually his to begin with. It is mine."

Anna spoke up timidly.

"E-even still, i-it is undemocratic to forcefully dismiss a Councilmember w-without due process."

"Child, please," scoffed Ozpin.

"The Grimm do not care about due process, nor democracy. The matter is a foregone conclusion and is well within the lawful bounds of this Kingdom."

Rudy slammed his hands on the table, standing up abruptly.

"This is preposterous! You can't just dismiss me! What about the laws? Due process?"

No-one spoke, content to watch Rudy with hidden amusement or resignation.

Seeing no-one speaking up on his behalf, Rudy turned his eyes upon the King himself.

"Your Majesty," he appealed.

"Please, such an undemocratic move would set a dangerous precedent and breed a lack of accountability!"

There was a pregnant pause as the King stared impassively, and everyone waited in anticipation for what he would say. When he spoke, it was slow and methodical, with clearly curated words.

"The Headmaster has made his decision quite clear, and it requires no further deliberation."

"No further…? There wasn't any to begin with! Your Majesty, surely you-!"

Rudy's eyes went wide as he suddenly halted, slowly angling an accusatory gaze towards Ozpin who was still seated. Realisation set in, and Ozpin exhaled slowly.

"You. You set this up. The whole time. Foregone conclusion indeed…."

Ozpin blinked slowly and apathetically.

"A decision was already reached. Like his Majesty just said, no further deliberation is required."

Rudy's mouth was slightly ajar, but clearly ready to fall off its hinges entirely.

"You… bastard!" he uttered out a guttural growl.

"You won't get away with this!"

"If it's any consolation, I only intend to hold the seat until the next General Election, where if a suitable candidate can be found and willing, then I will relinquish my seat over, much like I did for you. Now. If you are done, Rudy?" It wasn't a question, as Ozpin already directed his gaze to Nicholas.

"I deserve a trial at the very least and a chance to defend myself!" screeched Rudy indignantly, only to be ignored.

"Nicholas. Would you please escort the former Councilman outside of this meeting, as he no longer has the required authority and permissions to be involved in these discussions."

Nicholas felt his lip tug down slightly at being ordered around, but he nonetheless stood up almost immediately.

Rudy instantly slid his chair back.

"You'll have your day of reckoning, Ozpin!"

Nicholas walked around and seated a bare hand on Rudy's shoulder, pulling him away from the table without much resistance. Rudy glowered at Ozpin who sighed forlornly.

"We all have our day of reckoning," and with that, he gave Nicholas a slight nod.

Rudy was escorted towards the door and lead outside, but not before Rudy gave one last defiant call.

"I'll see you in hell you conniving bastard!"

With that, the grand doors shut.

"And now you hold two seats on this council," stated Carmine Adel coolly. "One as Headmaster, and one as Democratic Councilman."

"Indeed," frowned Alexander with a snarl.

"Was this your plan all along?"

Ozpin steepled his finger delicately, elbows resting on the arms of his seat.

"There is no plan. My intentions have been transparent all along. I have a duty to protect humanity against the threat of the Grimm. And I shall do so using whatever means are necessary. If my actions cause you discomfort, then I question your resolve and commitment."

He took a deep breath, exhaling slowly.

"Still, now that the first order of business is out of the way, I fear I must bring up the next order of business, and this will require a majority vote."

"Oh, now you want a majority decision? How kind," drawled Margaret. "Undermine our democracy when it suits you to instate yourself into a more powerful position, and when that will fail, then you'll come begging to us to bail you out."

"Please. No need to be that dramatic," he chuckled lightly. "I have no interest in undermining the law. Laws are important to create a functional society. I simply choose to complete my duties within the fullest range of my authority, and that sometimes means uncomfortable solutions are presented."

The doors opened again and Nicholas entered, letting them shut behind him before resuming his seat at the table.

The King spoke slowly, an air of authority exuding from his person.

"Now that we are all attending, present your proposal to this council, Headmaster."

"Of course, your Majesty," Ozpin inclined his head respectfully.

"Because of the recent increase in Grimm sightings and attacks, of which numerous reports and documented cases have been filed and presented, it is my concern that this Kingdom is at great risk."

Alexander frowned, crossing his arms.

"The Grimm are hardly the problem right now. The risk posed by the war escalating and dragging us out of neutrality is."

"I will not fault your concerns as baseless, but I think the current reaction is out of proportion to the scale of actual risk we face. The threat Menagerie poses us is potential, but it can be mitigated, and even outright prevented. The Grimm, however, are an active blight upon our lands and our communities."

"True," nodded Merlin Goodwitch. "The majority of our Kingdom's population are currently locked in Vale City and the immediate surrounding lands."

"But we are still functional," insisted Rosaline.

"But not indefinitely," argued Merlin, his voice gravelly and hoarse with age.

"And that is the beginning of our current issues," continued Ozpin.

"What needs to happen right now, is for control of the Huntsmen to be relinquished back to me in its entirety, and not dependent on the shared bureaucracy of the Council."

Robert spoke up, somewhat indignant.

"So not only would you undermine the authority of this council, you would undermine our security as well?!"

Ozpin regarded Robert coolly.

"Your security would not be undermined. If anything, it would be improved because of the reallocation of Huntsmen to do their actual job."

"It would weaken our defences and the strength portrayed to the rest of the world," argued Alexander.

Nicholas scoffed.

"Do you have so little confidence in your own army, General? The Headmaster is correct on one thing. Having Huntsmen holed up at our borders and ports to show intimidation to a perceived enemy that hasn't even set foot within a hundred miles of our continent is a waste."

"Headmaster," interjected the King, causing everyone to fall silent again.

"Continue your proposal."

"Yes. As I was saying, I want to reallocate the Huntsmen at large to focus on combatting the Grimm. I am content to allow the utilisation of the Hunter Garrisons under joint control of this Council, as per they have operated. But I need complete authority over my Huntsmen. Unhindered authority. Something this council has repeatedly attempted to deny me."

"Our concerns are valid, Headmaster," replied Rosaline snidely.

"You already control a school to train and indoctrinate them. You hold a high-position seat on this council and privately confer with the King often, and now you've just claimed a seat on the Democratic Council. Forgive the more sensible ones of us for being worried about you being the one attempting to raise your own private army, Headmaster."

"A baseless accusation . Especially when all of the facts are laid bare, Miss Tully. I have operated well within the bounds of the law."

Carmine cast a side-eye to Rosaline.

"Perhaps it is because Miss Tully and General Alexander are afraid that their little monopoly is now at an en passé without the full supporting votes provided by the former councilman Powderman?"

Rosaline pulled her arms into herself, offended.

"Why, I would never!"

Even General Alexander looked miffed.

"Regardless," continued Ozpin, "my proposal isn't about just making my duties easier. It also will open up opportunities for expansion to resolve our burgeoning economic crisis. As Vale currently stands, the Kingdom risks collapse within the next decade."

There was an uproar of disagreement from the Democratic Councilmembers, but Ozpin held out a hand to quiet them.

"Miss Tully, Councilman Rainhart. Please tell me the current economic and financial state of Vale, so that this Council can be reminded again of what the numerous reports state."

Rosaline was not happy to be ordered by Ozpin, but Rainhart obliged, albeit begrudgingly.

"Vale City is overpopulated by a significant margin."

It was true, that much the council could not deny. The slums were visible from the other side of the vast city, and the sheer amount of poverty on display with beggars, street rats, and unemployed citizens spoke of an ugly truth behind the secure walls that protected against Grimm.

"We have a city of a recorded five million people as of the last census, but even that number is likely inaccurate due to the sheer volume of homeless. This city is, as currently designed, only capable of sustaining up to four million people reliably."

Merlin frowned.

"That is the vast majority of our Kingdom's entire population."

"Indeed," nodded Rainhart grimly.

"We suspect we are over nine million people living in this city. We have another two million people scattered across the wilderness of Vale, with even the vast majority of that being located relatively close to the capitol. Most settlements and towns are coastal."

Anna spoke up, ready to cite the statistics.

"T-that is because it is easier for those communities to sustain themselves using fishing, and safer to use coastal commerce and transportation d-due to the risks of inland travel."

"Precisely," nodded Ozpin.

"Which brings us to the crux of the issue. Vale is incapable of sustaining itself for much longer. At the current rate of things, we have at best a decade before it will all catch up to us. Provided all contributing factors remain consistent. Which they will not!"

"We have agricultural plots outside of the city, and many of our settlements contribute what they can to help us," argued Margaret.

Ozpin shook his head.

"But it won't be enough. It certainly isn't right now. It most certainly won't be in the long run."

"I would argue that with some budgetary tweaks, it can continue to work," retorted Arthur.

"But it's not working well enough," countered Merlin.

"Say what you want about balancing your own money to cut costs, but people are motivated only by food. And the army is no different. Without enough food, we will inevitably collapse and risk becoming like Vacuo. A barren husk of a Kingdom."

"There is more, however," added Ozpin.

"We are losing our outer settlements, and while some individuals may feel it a negligible loss, which I do not condone," he sent Rosaline a pointed look, "it also presents us another problem."

"We lose an early warning system of the Grimm hordes," stated Nicholas grimly, and Ozpin nodded.

"Precisely."

"And your response is… what? Send your Huntsmen out to cull the herds for us?" asked Robert, unconvinced.

"While that would be an added benefit, I believe a more nuanced plan is necessary."

"We will begin expanding our settlements further into the wilderness, and we will tame it. The fruits of our expansion will be more land with which to grow food and sustain are people."

Everyone turned to the King in surprise.

"But I thought you said it was too dangerous?" asked Anna, confused.

"The Huntsmen will be the vanguard to the expansion," the King responded.

"While Saint was a tragic loss, it also carries many lessons for us. The same as all of the frontier towns."

Ozpin grimaced, but didn't speak out.

"Which is why we will commit to the Mountain Glenn Initiative."

Carmine looked surprised.

"What? Just like that? You want to expand out while the Grimm onslaught is growing? With all due respect, Ozpin just reported that we've lost a string of settlements, including our latest largest initiative to date!" She was furious. To see more lives be spent recklessly for some venture when all previous were showing similar hallmarks of failure seemed the height of foolishness to her.

The King adopted a hard expression as he sent her a stern glare.

"Mind your place at this Council, Miss Adel."

Carmine straightened her back as she was chastised, but that didn't stop her lips from thinning in disapproval.

Margaret spoke up next, clasping her hands as she probed for more information.

"This Initiative. Are you certain now is the right time? I know the plan has been on the table for the past several years, but why now?"

The King replied.

"Because of the issues mentioned previously, Miss Gemison. Whether we like it or not, Vale's overpopulation is not sustainable, and the more settlements we lose, the less of a safe buffer zone we have. If we can succeed in establishing one super-settlement outside of our capitol, then we can split our population up, expand our agriculture, and allow for more numerous, safer settlements going forward."

"But why now?" pressed Margaret. "Why not sooner, or not for another year or two when the Grimm settle down?"

Ozpin wanted to snarl, but he kept his composure outwardly calm.

"Grimm do not just settle down, as you put it. It will take a concentrated effort to remove and clear them. And an even larger effort to keep those lands safe."

"I fail to see the issue," snorted Alexander derisively.

"You've kept the Grimm at bay for long enough as is, Headmaster. While the loss of those outer settlements is tragic, they are still an acceptable casualty considering the sheer scale of Vale."

This time, Ozpin made little effort to maintain his composure, and his voice was pure ice as he reprimanded the General.

"Those casualties are not soldiers, General. They are civilians whom this Kingdom has failed to protect. Do not speak so frivolously about their lives as if they are some inconsequential statistic."

"Then by that metric, Headmaster, it seems rather risky to push ahead with the Mountain Glenn Initiative," intoned Margaret.

"Any risk can be mitigated if I have complete and absolute control of the Huntsmen. Not this council."

Rosaline grimaced at that.

"You claim Vale's economic crisis is the crux of the issue at hand, but the way I see it, it would seem your desire to hold more power along with a private army that answers solely to you is the real issue at hand, Headmaster."

Ozpin brushed the accusation off with practiced ease.

"And as I have repeatedly assured this Council, my intentions are strictly the protection of humanity as a whole. No more, and no less."

Arthur curled a displeased lip up at him.

"Then why not let this Council work together with joint control to do just that? Such matters should be seen as beyond a mere teacher whose role is to simply train soldiers."

"Because, Mr Rainhart, Huntsmen are much more than mere soldiers. They are much more than even Hunters due to their specialised training, Aura and Arcane training. As such, as someone who has made a career in hunting Grimm, and then teaching others how to do that very job, such matters of Huntsmen affairs should be left to an actual Huntsmen. Not a Council of elected politicians and shareholders. Tragedies strike otherwise, as we have seen with the late Mr Powderman."

He shot everyone a pointed look at the table along with a warning undercurrent in his voice.

"Actions I would hope were only related to himself, and not involving the gross negligence and mishandling of inexperienced and greedy members of this Council whose primary role is to help safeguard the interests of humanity."

Alexander's jaw clenched, and Rosaline supressed the urge to sneer. Margaret and the other council members were more reserved and showed no outward discontent.

"Then, if there are no objections, I would like everyone here to present all the relative information and plans pertaining to Mountain Glenn, and reconvene in a week's time so we can put the matter to a vote," abruptly ordered the King.

"If there are any other questions, let them be heard now before we adjourn this session."

There was none, though the bitterness and underlying tension could readily be sensed amongst everyone present.

"Then I call this session adjourned. You are hereby all dismissed back to your duties. Headmaster. A word in private before you go," ordered the King.

The sound of seats being shifted and the shuffling of feet as people stood up to leave could be heard, and after a minute had passed and the last Councilman present had left, shutting the door, the King finally let loose a heavy sigh, his shoulders sagging.

"You have caused quite a stir today, Ozpin. I hope you do know that?"

"I have operated well within the purview of the laws, your Majesty," he simply stated, clasping his hands on his lap.

"Yes. Your dismissal of Councilman Powderman is permitted. Though, the manner in which you removed him is questionable"

Ozpin was silent as he thoughtfully considered his words.

"I disagree," he finally said. "He demonstrated that he did not have the best interests of the Kingdom at heart."

The King dismissed his words sharply.

"I am not talking about the Councilman. I am talking about your request to consolidate control of the Huntsmen you have trained to be entirely under your jurisdiction."

"They are an extension of your will, as am I. I merely suggest that it is better to allow Huntsman to have the final say concerning how they operate. You would not give control of the Army to a surgeon, just as you would not give office to a peasant who has no knowledge nor experience."

The King's lips thinned, and he cast a consternated look over to Ozpin as he cautiously mulled over his argument.

"No. I would not. Just as I would not normally agree to allowing one individual complete control of the Kingdom's strongest warriors. Warriors that he trains and actively involves himself with. An individual who also holds not just one, but two seats on this Council."

"Come now. There are limitations to my power. They are only a reflection of my duties, and therefore the relevant input I can provide that is necessary to maintain this Kingdom."

"Do not lecture me about how politics and duty works, Ozpin. I am well aware, and frankly, I am getting too old and tired for that tripe."

He sighed, and in an uncharacteristic display that one would not expect from the Kingdom's ruler, he allowed himself to sag a bit in his seat, resting his cheek on his palm.

"How do you intend to resolve this mess, exactly?"

"By doing my duty to the fullest in service of the Kingdom. As a Huntsman."

"Hmpf. But not in service of the Crown?"

"The whole of humanity takes precedence. Not a single individual."

The King eyed him with an indecipherable look for the longest period. Ozpin didn't betray his expression and patiently waited for what the King would have to say next.

"You know, some would take that as treason."

"But you won't," smiled Ozpin.

"No, I won't. Because I've known you for a long time. Which is why I trust you when you say your interests are only in humanities continued survival and prosperity."

He leaned forward suddenly.

"So why won't you extend the same trust to me? We're on the same side. You don't want the Huntsmen outside of your control. You've objected that much forever. You won't even share with me how exactly you make or train your Huntsmen."

Ozpin felt his lips thin as he listened.

"Huntsmen should be led by those who understand them the best. As someone who oversees their training on a national level, I am uniquely placed with my understanding and experience. My arguments are the exact same as the ones I gave the rest of the Council."

The King sighed in frustration. "And the reason you're still obtuse about sharing how you train them?"

"Huntsmen are special, and they are what give a Kingdom an edge. Against the Grimm, they are the difference between life and death. Against their fellow man? They are gods amongst men. Such power must be carefully delegated responsibly so as to not compromise our Kingdoms, otherwise those that are more radical would seek to employ them to divide us. And that is something I will not allow under any circumstances."

"Nearly all the Kingdoms produce their own Huntsmen, Ozpin."

"And they are all bound by secrecy. The methods with which a Huntsman are trained are brutal and intimidating to begin with. The processes with which their Arcane Affinity and Aura are transformed are not… pleasant." Ozpin frowned as he went into thought.

The King was silent for a moment before he finally relented with a weary voice.

"I will grant you the control you wish, Ozpin. On the condition that you consult either myself or the council first on any plans you have so we are made aware."

"That is perfectly acceptable," nodded Ozpin.

The King sighed. "I just hope you have a plan in mind."

"Of course," acknowledged Ozpin warmly. "I would not have otherwise suggested if I felt it wasn't in the best interests for humanity."

The King grimaced.

"That's what frightens me about you sometimes, Ozpin. What lengths will you truly go to for the 'best of humanity'?"

Ozpin was silent as he stood up and left.


Carter downed the shot of liquor without propriety, slamming the glass down against the table at which he was seated before letting loose a satisfied sigh.

"So. Are you ready for a new beginning, Hei?"

Hei was seated directly opposite him with several of Carter's goons flanking him. His expression was terse, though the dim lighting of the room masked some of his unease.

They were currently back at Carter's tavern, however the place was devoid of patrons this time. Carter said it was because he wanted this to be strictly business, but that didn't stop him from offering Hei a drink which he refused out of spite.

"Where are they, Carter?" demanded Hei.

"Eh? Oh. The cripple and the kid. Rest assured, they are safe, Hei."

Hei growled. "I'll believe that when I see them for myself."

Carter sighed before gesturing to one of the men nearby.

"If you want to be that way, fine. Bring them out."

The man left, and after an anxious minute of waiting, he returned with Roman who he shoved in front of him towards Carter. Over his shoulder was Ruby, who he unceremoniously dumped onto Carters table, nearly breaking it. It certainly knocked the ashtray and glass of bourbon off where it shattered onto the ground.

Carter jumped back with a yelp.

"Brother's Grimm, Frank! You fucking idiot! Don't be damaging my merchandise like that! She could fetch a pretty penny! And what about my poor table, huh? Who's gonna pay for that?! You?"

Frank went pale, but at least had the grace to look apologetic.

"Uh, sorry boss. I didn't think…" he trailed off.

"You never do! Fuck sake, Frank."

Carter dropped back down onto his chair with an exasperated sigh.

"Clean this mess up. Without fucking it up," he snapped at Frank who wilted under Carter's glower.

Hei cared little for the interaction. He was more focused on seeing Ruby before him who lay unmoving. Her face looked abnormally pale, and when she refused to stir as he called her name, he felt a pit of worry worm in his stomach.

"Don't bother," called Roman, his voice bitter.

"They drugged her up real good. She's not gonna wake up any time soon."

Hei snarled as he reached for her. "Carter! What have you done!"

"OI!" snapped Carter, snapping his fingers. Instantly, every crossbow in the room was trained on Hei and he was forced to stop.

"You can look! But you can't touch," he finished softly, delicately scooping the unconscious girl up to cradle in his arms.

The action sickened Hei.

"As you can see, she is perfectly fine."

"You kidnapped and drugged her!"

"And you smuggled her into the city? So what's your point?"

Carter looked genuinely confused as he spoke.

"I didn't smuggle her in as if she's some cargo, Carter!"

"But then, why did you bring a Grimm-Whisperer here, Hei? If not to use as some weapon, then why?"

Hei clenched his fists so hard the knuckles were white, and as Carter studied him curiously, realisation dawned upon him.

"Oh. Oh! No way! Ahahah. No fucking way. You actually have feelings for her, don't you?!"

He smacked his knee raucously as he laughed.

"Well," he began after he let his laughter settle down.

"Aren't you an optimistic fool. So, essentially, I have two people you care about as leverage, is that it? Well, if you insist."

"Name your jobs, and keep them out of it." Hei wanted so badly to lash out, but he couldn't. Not with Carter holding two of his own hostage.

"Straight to business, eh? I like that. You know," Carter leaned forward, baring his teeth in wide-mouthed grin.

"I've heard a lot about you Mistralians. Hard workers that get things done. All proper and business like. Very good tastes," he gestured to Ruby slowly.

"So, don't you worry your head about these two," he assured in a voice that sounded too kind.

"You see, a Grimm-Whisperer is a pretty big threat around the home of the Huntsmen and Hunters. They might not take too kindly to me having one under my roof if word ever got out. That leaves me with a lot of risks. But, there is a pro to this."

Carter leaned back into his chair before passing the unconscious girl over to one of his thugs to carry away from the room. Another one of his men escorted Roman out at the same time, leaving just the two of them and a handful of Carter's men to act as guards.

"If the girl grows up, she would make for an excellent soldier for me to have at my disposal. Imagine that. There would be no syndicate capable of stopping me. Even the Winchesters would be wary!"

Hei shook his head.

"Thing's would not turn out the way you'd hope them to, Carter."

"No. I suppose not," he ruefully agreed.

"Which leaves me with two alternative options. One," he rose a single finger in the air for emphasis.

"I sell the girl to the Westenders for a considerable sum. Then I let them have their fun, where they'll no doubt have their way with her. Once they realise that is futile, they'll do the next best thing."

He leaned back in his seat with a confident smirk, and Hei instantly felt uneasy. He was already apprehensive because of the position Carter had forced him into.

"They will wage bloody war with the entire city, hoping to usurp the Hunters and Huntsmen authority."

Hei shook his head, confused.

"You said the other day that the Westenders have no real strength, however? They'd be crushed in an instant."

"Exactly," smiled Carter.

"But their overconfidence at having a Grimm Whisperer in their ranks would make them attempt the largest offensive they have ever attempted. The Hunters and Huntsmen would be forced to respond en-masse. And they will wipe out the Westenders for good. Now, what you may not be aware of, Hei, is that the Westenders, despite their posturing and general craziness, do have a sizeable portion of the city's west side under their control. That's a lot of valuable real-estate that would suddenly be up for grabs by a lot of syndicates and gangs around here, Hei."

"You would sacrifice people's lives just to grab a couple buildings and streets?" Hei was disgusted.

"Don't act so upset, Hei. Mistral does the same thing."

"Yeah. That's part of the reason I left there to begin with," Hei snapped.

"What you're suggesting will amount to a civil war within this very city."

"One can't make progress without being willing to force change. Besides, I never said I was intending to grab the Westender's territory."

Carter sniffed, as if offended.

"Too much filth and shit in that diseased piss-creek. No, I am much more civilised than that, Hei. All the other syndicates and gangs will jump at the opportunity to expand. And in the process, they will weaken themselves by having their control over their existing territory spread too thin."

Carter was smugly pleased with himself. Hei, not so much as he pieced together what Carter was implying.

"Wouldn't that leave you spread too thin, though?"

"I have allies. You need not concern yourself about that. It'll be like I said. Free real-estate being handed on a silver platter."

Hei's eyes darted around cautiously as he realised the implications and potential scenarios as a consequence.

"And your second, alternative option?"

"You run any and all jobs I give you, and keep my profits up as high as you can, so I simply see keeping you working for me as the more profitable outcome as opposed to waging war on the city," Carter stated calmly.

Hei regarded Carter thoughtfully before carefully asking what sort of jobs he intended.

"Nothing too extreme," reassured Carter with a dismissive wave of his hand.

"I have a few protection rackets that need overseeing, especially since your friend Roman killed one of the street gangs I employed."

"What, you just want us to take over their tasks?"

"Not quite," chuckled Carter.

"I wouldn't trust you not to try and use those businesses I protect against me. But I would hope with your knowledge and experience that you would engineer new solutions to my current predicament. Find new ways to generate wealth and power for me. Hopefully, trust can be built between us so such mistrust becomes a thing of the past."

Hei doubted it. Carter was most likely just giving him honeyed words to sound more amicable. Not that such words meant anything to Hei.

"The alternative is I consider starting a war with the other gangs and syndicates. No, what I need is a little more nuanced. The girl that Roman was with. She has a latent Aura from what I heard. That is useful. I will use her services to deal with some problematic clients and targets of mine. As for you, Hei, I have something in mind."

He frowned apprehensively, crossing his arms.

"Do tell," he drawled.

"I run a brewery downtown. It's much cheaper than importing or buying from other distributors. Especially in light of Vale's recent regulations to restrict and tax alcohol trade. Very expensive indeed."

Really? That was something Hei never really thought about, especially since he never dealt in liquor, let alone in Vale.

"I need some assistance to help manage and run my operation. Consider this a test. If you bring my profits up, and prove your loyalty to me? Then I will show leniency towards your family. And if you consistently deliver, and prove yourself a valuable asset? Then I will reward you and your family."

Yeah right. With a knife to the back, he thought bitterly.

It wasn't ideal, and there wasn't exactly much choice, but Hei could make this work and look for any opportunities.

After quickly evaluating the risks and potential rewards, Hei finally came to a conclusion. Not that he had much choice and negotiating power anyways.

"What am I looking at specifically?"

Carter's smile was all teeth and feral.


"He should have cut her loose," growled Melanie. Miltia frowned and put a hand on her shoulder, speaking softly.

"They have Roman."

Melanie growled.

"Grr. Then we should cut him off as well!"

That earned her a pointed glare from Neo who was pacing furiously.

"No-one's abandoning anyone," shot Tony.

He was faring no better than the rest, his face morphed into a permanent scowl as he paced back and forth with interlocked arms behind his back.

Melanie huffed, refusing to meet his eyes.

"You say that like you don't even remember everyone we lost."

Tony's lips pursed tightly as he cast her a disapproving side-eye.

"Don't ever say that. I remember everyone. And so does Hei."

Melanie looked like she about to retort something sarcastic but suddenly bit her tongue, changing her mind, looking uncertain.

There was a tense silence in the room, and everyone was uncertain what to say next. Until DJ spoke up uncertainly.

"You think they'll be okay?"

Tony quirked an eyebrow.

"Who? Roman? He can be stupid at times, but he's a survivor. As for the kid? She's lasted this long."

It was self-assurance, and everyone could tell Tony was only acting brave because the alternative was too frightening to openly acknowledge.

"And Hei?"

Tony felt his bravado crack slightly when DJ asked that.

"Hei…. Hei's strong."

The man had to be to get them as far as he did. And even with the deaths of everyone looming over his shoulder, weighing him down with guilt, he still pushed forward. Trying his best to look out for them all. It certainly wasn't an easy task, however. Tony could see the way Hei was affected. From the constant regret and longing in his eyes, to the sorrow and guilt he revealed when Melanie chewed him out.

"But he's just as human as we are, right?" added Miltia knowingly.

"Yeah," nodded Tony sadly.

"And he has a lot on his plate now."

That didn't seem to be enough to satisfy Melanie however as she glanced away, muttering under her breath.

"He wouldn't if he had just damn well listened to us and not taken that brat aboard."

Tony shot her the stink eye, his patience reaching its limits.

"What more do you want, Melanie?! He's already a wreck from everything that happened! He's trying his best to look out for us, but it doesn't help when people outside our perfect little bubble just randomly appear to burst it, now does it!"

Melanie's eyes snapped to his angrily, and she bared her teeth at him.

"I want for him to move on from that stupid girl and have us all leave Vale! This place is too dangerous now, and as long as we keep that little freak with us, more of us will drop!"

"Oh for – QUIT ACTING LIKE YOU'RE THE ONLY ONE AFFECTED!" screamed Tony, finally reaching his breaking point.

Melanie recoiled in surprise, and everyone leaned, shocked. It was as if they were trying to brace against a sudden strong gust of wind from a raging storm that landed.

"You're not the only one grieving here! You're not the only one having second thoughts!"

Melanie opened her mouth to argue, only for Tony to shut her down.

"NO! You don't get to speak! You've had your say! That's ALL you've had to say! We're all devastated to have lost everyone, our home, our way of life. And now, we are at risk of losing more! But that's just the way life is! She's an unfair bitch. And we're not the only ones that see that. Hei does too. And that's why he is doing everything in his power to keep us afloat and safe. He's trying! Which is a hell of a lot more than your whining is doing for us."

Melanie's expression was akin to that of a cat realising it was soaked.

"I am sick of it, Melanie," continued Tony.

"Which is why I'm going to stick with Hei and help him to the best of my ability. Because if I don't, he will fail. And then we'll all die. Including Hei, who I bet already feels like death having you constantly remind him about what happened, and how it's his fault. He knows! We all know! Which is why he's trying. And I know what you're going to say; that trying isn't good enough! Well," he let out a bitter laugh.

"We never would have made it this far if we didn't at least try. So it's better than nothing."

With that he locked eyes with Melanie.

"He's trying. And so must we."

Everyone considered his words for only a few seconds before the tavern door opened, revealing Hei.

He entered without so much as a word, a consternated expression embedded on his face, the door creaking shut behind him.

"Hei? What happened?" asked DJ, jumping to his feet from the bar counter as he approached.

Hei wasted no time in speaking.

"We have our first job."

"Wait, what? What did you and Carter talk about?" DJ had so many questions, as did Tony.

Hei took a seat at the bar, shaking off his coat before rolling it up and resting it atop the counter.

"We talked about a lot of things. Though I'd call it less a conversation and more a list of ultimatums."

Hei sounded bitter at that.

"And let me guess, we have to comply or else," scowled Miltia before letting loose a small breath which shifted her bangs.

"Please tell me at least the plan is to get Roman and Ruby out from that asshole, right?"

Hei frowned as he let loose a consternated hum.

"It's become a little more complicated than that, but yes, the plan is to rescue them."

"Then what's the complication?" asked Tony, eyes creased with worry.

Hei stood up, turning to face everyone.

"We either help him turn a profit so large that he sees us as the more valuable investment, or he kills Roman and turns Ruby over to a rival gang with a major bone to pick with the Huntsmen."

Tony blinked in confusion while Melanie jumped forward.

"Great, so let's go break Roman out and run a deal with these rivals of Carters."

Hei did not share her enthusiasm.

"These rivals of Carter's worship the Grimm, Melanie. Giving them a Grimm-Whisperer is going to be exactly what they want to tear this city apart and start a civil war."

"Wait, what? What are you saying, Hei?" questioned DJ with growing concern.

Hei paced back and forth like a restless animal.

"If we don't play exactly into Carter's hands to the point where he thinks we can net him more value, then he's going to start a civil war within this city using these rivals, the Westenders, as a proxy. He's hoping with the resulting chaos and violence that many of the rival gangs will weaken their grasp on their existing territory or be wiped out in the process so he can do a massive land grab."

Tony slumped down on an adjacent bar stool.

"How… why?"

Hei didn't respond, but Melanie certainly did, snarling.

"Because he's a sick, crazy fucker. That's why. And let me guess, Hei. We'd all be caught up in the violence, wouldn't we?"

"It would seem that way," he bit out.

"Hang on," interjected Miltia.

"You said that's only if we turn out to not be as profitable an investment. What the hell does that mean?"

Everyone looked around at each other and nodded their heads.

Hei stopped his pacing.

"He wants Neo to start running some hits on his clients. Beat a few up, maim a couple. Maybe even kill the odd one. Especially any that have deals going on with rival gangs. Then he'll come along and offer a better protection deal with his more competent thugs."

DJ snorted, crossing his arms.

"Lemme guess. For a price, right?"

Hei nodded.

"Bingo. A protection racket in exchange for sweeter deals and ludicrous amounts of money. But that's only part of what he wants from us."

"Oh goody," spat Melanie with an angry huff.

"The rest of us will distributing alcohol and trading drugs throughout the city."

"How is that exactly more profitable for him? He runs a tavern already and serves alcohol?" Tony was curious, and so were the others now that he mentioned it.

"Because he'll be avoiding paying tax and licence fees for the sale and purchase of alcohol in his tavern."

Miltia mouthed an 'o' in understanding.

"Oh. This way he gets to keep all the money for himself instead of having to share it with anyone else. Hmpf. Clever," nodded Miltia, ignoring the glare Neo and Melanie sent her way.

Hei shook his head. "Not really. While it certainly nets him a lot of money and power, having us work for him to help in those matters certainly won't make a noticeable contribution in his profits."

Tony's eyes slowly widened in horror as the realisation set in, and he covered his mouth with his hand.

"Oh… shit…."

"You see it. Don't you." Hei's words were a statement, not a question.

Melanie's eyes darted between the two.

"What? What's going on? What are you talking about?"

Tony felt sick.

"He's gonna do it either way, isn't he?"

Hei took a deep breath before exhaling.

"The man's philosophy is profit. And that's the only outcome I envision to be profitable. Why settle for scraps when you can take the whole meal."

"Oh," Tony felt weak all of a sudden.

"What? What!" exclaimed Melanie, not quite following.

"What's happening?!"

Tony glanced at her weakly.

"Carter's going to sell Ruby so he can start a civil war and drag the Huntsmen in to it, turning this whole city into a war zone."

DJ's eyes went wide and spluttered out in protest.

"But-but the deal?! I thought you said Carter had made a deal with you Hei?"

"It's just words at the end of the day," grunted Hei.

"Never trust anything a criminal has to say. You ought to remember that rule kid. But yes," he sighed.

"That's the only outcome I can think of. He has no real reason to honour his words. Which means we're all on a timer right now to rescue Ruby and Roman."

Miltia was the first to voice her next concern tentatively.

"What will he do with Roman, then?"

"He'll kill him once he gets everything started. He only needs him alive just long enough to get this ball rolling and keep us from acting out."

Neo ground her teeth and clenched her fists as she heard those words. If they dared to harm Roman she would return that treatment tenfold. And Brother Gods forbid they actually kill him!

"Then what's the point of keeping us alive right now if he's going to off us anyways?" Melanie's mind was abuzz. It made no sense. If you wanted someone dead, you just plunged the knife in them up front. Not dilly dally along and do it at a later time. After all, there was never a guarantee of later.

"I don't know," Hei shook his head. "But it grants us time. Even if it isn't a whole lot of it."

"Well, what are we waiting for then?" snapped Miltia. "We need to rescue them. Now."

"I agree," nodded Hei.

"Yes – wait what?" Melanie's determined concurrence with her sister turned into surprise at Hei's words.

"I said I agree," reiterated Hei with a hard look.

"We can't play this passive. Not this time."

Tony blinked in surprise at Hei's words. Until he snapped.

"Do you even have a plan, Hei?!"

He shot Tony a look that had him back down immediately.

"As a matter of fact, yes I do actually."

Everyone looked at him curiously.

"Carter doesn't trust us fully to work on our own. He's going to have us chaperoned by several of his goons who will keep him posted on how we're performing."

"Well that's gonna be joyous," groused Melanie.

"For today, he wants us to work on distributing alcohol from his brewery. We'll be there to pick it up, and he's going to give us the destination and routes tonight. In person. We'll overpower him then and there. Most of us have enough aura that we can tank a few shots from his men. As for Neo, he wants you to accompany some of his debt collectors. Once you're out, kill them and circle back to the tavern and find Ruby. Use your Semblance to sneak in and find her."

Neo waved an exasperated hand and shot him a look as if to ask 'what about Roman?'

"Carter's dependent on Ruby being traded to the Westenders to kickstart this whole plan of his. If you find Roman, definitely free him. The less leverage he has, the better. And I'd rather Roman not be found out as a Void if at all possible."

Neo glanced at him cautiously, her lips pulling down into a frown, but she relented. He wasn't throwing Roman's life away, and that satisfied her.

"If we can nip this in the bud and free Roman and Ruby, and then take Carter hostage, we can force him to the table without worrying about reprisal or him killing anyone."

"I don't know, Hei. It seems like a lot can go wrong. There's too many variables at play. We don't know how many men he has, if they have aura, where Roman and Ruby are even being held? What if we end up too late or miscalculate?" voiced Tony, uncertainty lacing his words.

"Oh fuck that. It's a chance to get back at that bastard, and I say we take it. Like Hei said, we're on the clock. Who knows how long it is until he decides to off Roman, or worse, decide to take another one of us. I'm in," concurred Melanie resolutely.

"So am I," nodded Miltia.

"And me," growled DJ. Neo nodded vigorously, stroking the hilt of her stilettoes. Tony growled while Hei set his face.

"Then it's decided. We end this tonight."

And come sunrise, that bastard would be dead and everything would be back on track to being alright.

Yet somehow, deep down, Hei knew that things would never go back to normal. Call it a criminal's intuition from a lifetime of crime, but he just knew something was bound to change. He could only hope it was for the better, or at least that he and everyone he cared for came out on top.


Next Chapter: Monday 22nd July