Halo, it's time for the newest chapter. Enjoy the reading.
Cinder doesn't even know how many times she has had to endure the bitter taste of defeat, as she has already lost the battle for the power of a Maiden many times. The last shot she took from Penny, she already thought she wouldn't survive. She felt that her strength was running out and she was unable to move, while slowly everything went dark.
While she was unconscious she felt vulnerable and weak, exactly as she had as a child. The feeling reminded her of her evil stepmother and sisters. When Madame adopted her from the orphanage, she felt as happy as never before.
Unfortunately, that joy was quickly over when she found out that she didn't want to raise her as her own child, she just wanted a slave to work in her hotel. The electric collar that Madame gave her prevented her from escaping and she wasn't afraid to use it as a punishment to intimidate and kill all of her resistance.
She hated this feeling, the helplessness, the weakness and the vulnerability. Ever since she got her freedom, she swore that she would never let herself be put in such a situation again and that she would never let herself be a helpless tool in someone's hands again. She wanted power, so that people would fear her and she wanted to be the most powerful individual in all of Remnant and for that it didn't matter what or who she had to sacrifice.
When she opened her eye, she found herself on a stone bed and saw a dark red ceiling above her, clearly not an Atlas prison. When she sat up to look around and saw the red lights and carved bone-like stones, she knew full well that Salem was in Grimm's whale.
- Cinder, - Emerald arrived in the room and when she saw that she had woken up, she excitedly ran to her. - you are awake! - She knelt in front of her and gently took her left Grimm hand. - I was so worried. How do you feel?
- You, - Cinder didn't care about the girl's concern and loyalty, she only felt annoyance and anger towards her for being away from the power of the Winter Maiden. - you brought me back here?! - She pulled her Grimm hand out of the girl's and looked to the side worriedly. - After we fail.
- Cinder, - Emerald just looked confusedly at the one-eyed woman, who wasn't only ungrateful, but even angry at her. - you're injured. I just wanted to help.
- I think she got enough help. - Into the room, Mercury suddenly came in, who spoke condescendingly to them. - Besides, she turned against our mistress. - He walked towards the girls and crossed his arms smugly. - I would be careful who I would support.
- Cinder's suspicion was right! - Emerald stood up for Cinder without thinking. - If there were more of us, maybe...
- Would you stop trying to protect her all the time?! - Mercury was already very annoyed by Emerald, who had been constantly jumping around Cinder like a puppy since he knew her. - She doesn't care about you.
- Both of you, - Cinder's eye started to burn. - out! - Emerald just lowered her head in disappointment. - I'll call you the next time I need you.
- As a matter of fact, - Mercury just smiled comically. - Salem has other plans for me. I'll no longer take orders from you. - The fire in Cinder's eye went out of shock. - She wants to see everyone on the bridge. Something big is going to happen.
The boy turned to leave the room, Emerald stood up with a sigh and followed.
Cinder worried in advance what punishment Salem would devise for her for not being able to obtain the power of the Winter Maiden.
"I'd like to reiterate that this is my burden and not yours. He has a grudge against me.", Ozpin was already feeling terrible at the brutal beating Hazel was giving Oscar non-stop who was forced to endure the pain helplessly. The rest of his body was covered in blue, green and purple bruises, his left eye was swollen, and blood was pouring from his nose and mouth.
- No, - The boy whispered. - that will only make it worse. I can feel him holding back on me.
"I understand, really, but you've done so much already. The least I can do is give you some rest and try to get ourselves out.", Ozpin hoped that if nothing else, he could at least give the boy some hope.
- We can't leave yet. - However, Oscar had another idea. - This is our chance.
"Hm, maybe you took too many hits.", Ozpin didn't understand what Oscar could want in this state.
- Salem knows, - Oscar tried to stand up, but the pain prevented him. - that she can't fight the whole world at once. That's why she doesn't. She uses her followers to sabotage us from within.
- Maybe we should do the same. - Finished at once. They use Salem's own weapon to sabotage her from within.
"Then you and I really look alike. Maybe we'll have a chance after all."
- Wait, - Oscar shook his head in confusion and spoke indignantly. - how long have you been fighting against Salem?
"It's been a long time. I don't even know the number of years anymore. I'm slowly feeling that my existence is about nothing else.", Ozpin could feel the tiredness in his voice.
- And during that time, never once did it occur to you to send a spy among them, or to sabotage her from within? - Oscar asked the right question. - Don't say that I thought of this before you!
"We have a visitor.", Ozpin awkwardly cut the conversation short as the cell door opened and Hazel came through.
- Great. - Oscar shook his head and prepared for the next beating.
"Oscar, please.", Ozpin hoped Oscar would give the lead as Hazel grabbed him and lifted him up and pinned him against the wall.
- You don't have to fight this war, kid. - In Hazel's voice, he could already hear the regret for beating Oscar so badly. - Just tell me what I need and we'll be done.
- Hello, Hazel. - Oscar's eyes flashed yellow for a moment and his speaking style also changed. It's clear that Ozpin has taken over.
- Coward! - Hazel's face hardened and without the slightest spark of pity, his mind was flooded with anger. - It could have been you all along, but you let him suffer! - He slammed the boy to the floor, for whom he no longer felt a bit of pity. - Now tell me how this f*cking Lamp works! - He approached him, clenching his fists. - The boy has suffered enough.
- Why are you following her? - Ozpin asked as he stood up, but Hazel kicked him to the floor with a kick to the stomach. - I know... - Coughing up blood, he looked up at the man. - I know what you see me... But she... look what she's doing! How can she be the answer?! Why don't you stop her?!
Hazel stopped and walked to the side.
- Salem can't be stopped. - He went to one of the bone rock platforms and touched it. - She's a force of nature. I could experience it first hand. But you, - He broke off the top of the rock angrily. - you send children to their deaths for a cause, - He sharpened the edge of his armored glove with the rock. - which you know can't be won and will never end! - He angrily walked back to Ozpin.
- Someone has to try! - Ozpin roared, standing on his knees. - Salem is not a force of nature, because we can fight against Salem! Until... - He lowered his head in disappointment. - until she collects all four relics. - The worst possible outcome occurred to him. - If this happens...
- Ozma. - Salem's voice could be heard from the end of the prison, which made Hazel stop. Everyone looked towards the witch, who was just standing on the steps in front of the door with folded hands. - Your timing is perfectly. - She looked at the boy with a broad smile, whom she clearly knew was her former love and current biggest opponent. - The show is about to start.
She just waved before Hazel grabbed the boy and they followed Salem straight to the bridge where Salem took her place on ers stone throne and gathered all her followers around her to fight for her.
At her side sat the Hound, but the others, Hazel, who had brought Ozpin with him, Tyrion, Cinder, Genna, Mercury, Emerald, Adam and Mandy were only kneeling in front of her throne, their heads bowed.
Salem stood up and walked in front of them, but stopped in front of Cinder.
- We have good news. - She finally spoke with satisfaction, but Cinder didn't raise her head. - Tyrion received word from our dear colleague, Watts. - She walked towards the faunus man, who chuckled as he handed her his Scroll, but instead of taking it, she patted his head like a mother does to her son who has done something good. - Although it seems that he's still in captivity, he has managed to take control of the puppet in cooperation with Ironwood, which is disguised as the Winter Maiden. - Tyrion put his Scroll away and Salem straightened up. - I think he still remained useful. Speaking of this, - Her voice turned ominous and she turned to the one-eyed woman. - Cinder. - Cinder's Grimm arm suddenly began to vaporize and emit black smoke, causing Cinder to scream loudly in pain. - You chose to disobey my clear order, only to fail again and sabotage the next part of my plan by destroying Amity. Can you give me a single reason why shouldn't I replace you as the bearer of the Maiden Powers?
Cinder gasped in pain as the burning sensation left her Grimm arm. She understood that Salem had indeed made her stronger and given back her arm, but at the same time she had put a leash on her that she could use to kill her at any time. She was reminded again of the feeling of helplessness and weakness that she had thought she had gotten rid of, but now it was taking possession of her again.
- I... - Cinder tried weakly to stand up.
- Cinder managed to destroy Amity! - Emerald immediately spoke up for her. - The Hunters can no longer call for help with that and... - The Hound, on Salem's signal, stood in front of her and angrily snarled and growled at her, which immediately silenced her.
- If protecting Cinder is your primary goal, girl, - Salem said menacingly. - then maybe you shouldn't wave her stupidity like a flag.
- With Amity damaged, Atlas' days are numbered. - Adam spoke up.
- Atlas' days are numbered because of General Ironwood. - Salem now turned to him and started walking up and down in front of his people. - I want to clarify something. I didn't want Amity to get damaged. After the destruction of Atlas, I wanted to acquire it so that I could take control of global communications to give the world an ultimatum.
- Why didn't you say... - Cinder was a little upset that Salem didn't initiate her into her plan, but her own Grimm hand closed around her throat and started to strangle her, burning her again.
- I told you to stay here! - Salem answered angrily, which scared everyone in the hall, her voice pierced everyone's head like a thorn. - You did the exact opposite of what I said! Maybe I wasn't clear?! Or is there simply a problem with your perception?!
- Mistress... - Cinder tried to explain, but Salem shot a purple bolt at her, making her scream in pain.
- You were disrespectful! - Salem then summoned Grimm arms from the floor, which grabbed Cinder so she couldn't move. - You acted against my orders! - The grip and burning of Cinder's own Grimm arm calmed down, but the other Grimm hands didn't let up, and Salem just knelt down next to her to look her in the eye. - Now listen to me carefully and for your own sake I recommend that you understand what I am going to say this time as well. You, Cinder, consider yourself a part of a large and complex machine. This machine only works properly if all the parts are doing what they are supposed to. If you, in the absence of knowledge of the tasks of the other parts, do what you think is right, then this machine will fail and be destroyed. - The Grimm hands gave way, Salem straightened up and signaled to Cinder that she could stand up. - You are extremely lucky that your perseverance in Winter Maiden prevented your stupidity, they announced my existence to the world and asked for help. Unfortunately, this will not change the fate of Atlas.
- Thank you. - Cinder was grateful that Salem didn't kill her.
- Don't thank me yet! - Salem shot back. - You still have one mistake that you need to fix.
- I will do anything, Mistress. - Cinder assured her tremblingly.
- I'll believe it when I see it. - This time Salem didn't pay as much attention to Cinder's word. - Go to Atlas, free Watts and bring him back alive. He can lead you to the girl. - The Hound walked over to Cinder and sniffed her. - Either you or my Hound will reach her first, but eventually, you can get the power of Winter Maiden, and I can get the Staff.
- Yes. - Cinder straightened up and was about to start her task.
- There's one more thing I want to clear up, Cinder. - Salem gave him one last warning - If Watts doesn't survive, neither will you. He can still fix the Amity you ruined. Did. You. Understand?
- Yes, Mistress. - Cinder knelt down. - Without you I'm nothing.
- Good. - Salem finally smiled.
- You will only help him finish us all! - Ozpin gathered enough strength to speak alongside Hazel. Hazel didn't hesitate to slam the boy to the floor, then picked him up with one hand and held him in front of Salem, who stepped in front of him and leaned right in front of his face.
- You're too late. - Salem smiled confidently as she sat back on her throne. She was sure that Amity's damage only hindered her future plans. Atlas is over, they just don't know it yet. - It's time.
Time has come for Ironwood, Watts' virus has reached Penny to crash on the tundra, leaving her possibly injured, but probably still alive. He didn't leave any chance and that's why he sent the Ace Ops to bring her back.
The Hunters didn't wait long before they boarded a transport plane that took them out of the city and into the tundra.
- The hacking just didn't work? - Harriet was a little worried that if Watts had hacked Penny, why didn't he direct her straight back to the academy. - How do we know we can trust Watts at all?
- We have confirmed footage of her leaving Amity. - Vine, as always, was the most rational. - She looked like she had malfunctioned.
- That's why I don't trust technology! - Elm was annoyed by the many machines and hacking. - Now we're just wasting our time on that damned piece of cr*p!
- Enough! - Winter, who was driving the plane and recovered enough to take over the leadership of the Ace Ops, shouted back. - You are Atlas elites. Act like it.
- Ma'am, - Marrow, sitting in the co-pilot seat, warned Winter. - we detected an open communication broadcast.
- Play it. - Winter ordered and Marrow obeyed.
- ...heading straight for Mantle. - Jaune's voice was heard on the radio. - Again, a large amount of Grimm are heading straight for Mantle. Please if anyone...
- It's coming from there! - Marrow measured the exact position of the transmission and Winter directed the plane in that direction and after a few minutes, she set it down on the tundra.
- Take over. - Winter stood up and entrusted the plane to Marrow and, together with the others, went to the door of the plane, which slowly opened, they jumped out into the snow to meet the people who sent the broadcast.
There were at least five people with two hover bikes.
- Great, - Yang was the first to express her displeasure when she saw the members of the Ace Ops. - you again. - Jaune and Ren rode their bike while Roman and Neo rode the other.
- Did you hear our message? - Jaune got off the bike and went towards the Atlasians. - It's here! - He pointed towards the black Grimm river cutting through the tundra. - We have to hurry!
- Where's Penny? - Harriet wasn't interested in what the young ones had to say, she only cared about the mission.
- Are you serious now?! - Jaune could hardly believe that in such an emergency, the Ace Ops were only interested in the Winter Maiden. - People are in danger!
- The people are in danger because you, children have been selfish and... - Harriet was about to distribute them when suddenly the ground shook with such force that it could be felt all over Solitas.
More and more tremors shook the ground and the black river Grimm, which was already very close to Mantle, stopped and erupted like a geyser towards Atlas, attacking the city's energy shield.
It didn't take long for the large amount of Grimm to overwhelm the shield and send some Centinel Grimm through, easily climbing or burrowing into the rock holding the Atlas. Atlas' ships tried to shoot down the Centinel Grimms, but to no avail, they could do nothing against the ones already inside the rock.
The main purpose of the Centinels weren't to hide, but to destroy the city's shield generator towers by knocking them out from below.
A few minutes were enough and Atlas' force shield was deactivated and the city became defenseless against an attack.
It didn't take long for the giant flying Grimm whales waiting in the storm near the city to start heading towards the floating city.
The ships of Atlas didn't hesitate and opened fire on the first whale and their total firepower was enough to destroy one. Unfortunately, there were still at least nine Grimm whales left, five of which attacked the planes and the other four landed on Atlas, two landing on the southwest plains of the city and the other two on the southeast plains.
All four whales opened their mouths, from which the black Grimm liquid began to pour, from which all kinds of horrors came to life and their only goal was to destroy all living things in the city.
The battle for Atlas began, the alarm sounded and Atlas' army immediately engaged the Grimm hordes. The Grimm whales that seized Atlas' air force, which made them unable to provide support, as 3 of the 13 cruisers had already crashed and the remaining 9 fought with all their might against the 5 Grimm whales in the sky.
Fighters and bombers took off by the thousands from the academy to support the cruisers in the sky. On the other hand, from the mouths of the Grimm whales in the sky, just like their counterparts on the plains, all kinds of winged horrors came out by the thousands and attacked the planes.
A horrible battle began in the sky, the Atlas high-tech planes destroyed the winged Grimms with dozens, but the Grimms resisted fiercely and their superior power unfolded. Each shot down in Grimm's place as three others stepped in and more and more planes went down, smoking and flaming.
The battle on the ground wasn't easier either, unfortunately, there were no natural defense lines on the plains outskirts of the city and the general didn't expect that Salem could break through Atlas' protective shield so easily. Instead of sending them out like a fool, without any protection, the soldiers stayed inside the city walls, occupying the buildings that were near the wall and using them as cover, knowing that the Grimm would eventually enter the city. Heavy machines, like Paladins and tanks were ordered outside the walls to deliver heavy artillery strikes on certain areas.
From the city, trucks driven by robots and loaded with explosives raced straight towards the approaching army of Grimm, which Atlas tanks and Paladins, accompanied by a well-timed shot, destroyed several Grimm.
The soldiers tried to set up defenses, mounted turrets on the walls and their towers and provided supporting fire to the heavy machines.
Atlas' army was holding its own against Salem's Grimm hordes for now, but General Ironwood knew they couldn't hold out forever, even with him leading the defense. Despite the steadfastness of the army and the initial successes, the general became increasingly desperate. He felt that this was just the first wave for Salem's endless army of Grimm and he knew that if he didn't get the Staff of Creation soon, Atlas wouldn't last long.
He immediately called the army officers on the radio.
- Yes, sir? - Someone spoke on the other side of the radio.
- Evacuate all residents to the subway. - The general gave the order. - Prepare the Manta Squad for Omega and send them to all parts of Atlas.
- But sir... - The officer on the other side clearly disagreed with the order and his hesitation pierced Ironwood's nerves like a needle, causing him to interrupt him angrily.
- NOW! - Ironwood didn't tolerate opposition and opened another channel, which he could use to speak to the inhabitants of the city on Atlas' loudspeaker. - Citizens of Atlas, the city is under attack, but please keep calm and please go to the nearest subway station where you can find shelter.
- We can't restore the energy shields, sir! - Another officer reported desperately. - The generators have taken too much damage!
- Then don't waste resources on them. - The general knew that he could give up the city's energy shields. - Beta squad, target the giants.
- We need heavy weapons against them, sir! - Reported by the platoon leader.
- Fleet Admiral, - He tried to reach the fleet this time. - how is the battle in the sky? Would you be able to provide fire support on the front?
- Negative, sir. - The admiral reported. - I lost at least six cruisers, twelve frigates and hundreds of small planes before we managed to take down one more of those giant creatures.
- Alpha Squad, - He must have heard from the other front. - how are things going?
- We're doing well for now, sir, - The officer on the other end sounded confident. - we had great blasts and many stupid Grimms are walking into our crosshairs! It's like shooting practice!
- Don't become overconfident and concentrate! - The general took mild pleasure in the officer's confidence, but didn't want him to trust himself.
- Yes sir!
- Sir, this is Schnee. - Winter logged in. - Penny's still MIA, but we captured Torchwick, Politan, Arc, Xiao Long and Ren.
- Wait for further orders and do not lose sight of the fugitives.
- Yes, sir. Of course.
- So, you're still just following orders? - Yang simply couldn't fathom how the Hunters and Huntresses could leave behind thousands of innocent people following the general's heartless tactics.
Unfortunately, they were forced to surrender, as they would have quickly frozen to death on the frozen tundra of Solitas and it would have taken too long to get back to the city with the two hover bikes. Roman, Neo, Yang, Jaune, and Ren were prisoners, handcuffed, waiting to be taken back to an Atlas prison.
The passengers of the plane were almost shocked when they arrived back towards the city to see that at least eight giant whale Grimm had attacked the city and fierce battles were raging both in the air and on the ground, and even inside the city.
- That Grimm got Oscar into one of those. - Jaune remembered that talking Grimm taking the boy. - They are bigger than I thought.
- But in which one can he be? - Yang didn't even dare to guess and was horrified when the Atlas fleet, at the cost of a serious loss, managed to take down another whale.
- If I had to guess, - Roman looked confident. - in the biggest. - He pointed to the whale, next to which even the others were dwarfed.
- The Grimm take no prisoners. - Vine didn't think it likely.
- That one did! - Yang stood up for what was right. - If you would let us go... - She tried to stand up, but Vine held her back.
- Cease fire! - Ironwood's voice could be heard on the radio. - Manta squad, focus on secondary enemies. The Command Office is already working to destroy these creatures.
- What do you mean, sir? - Winter asked.
- As long as we attack them from the outside, we lose too much. But maybe they can be vulnerable on the inside. The science team has produced an experimental, prototype bomb that's powerful enough to possibly destroy one. We will take you as close as possible to one of the targets, and then your team will transport it on foot. I'll send you the coordinates of the meeting point.
- Of course, sir, - Winter obeyed the order. - we hold the position and solve it.
- But Oscar is in one of these! - Jaune worriedly noted that there was a one in seven chance that the very whale their friend was in would be blown up.
- You can't! - Yang angrily tried to stand up, but Vine and Elm put her back down.
Winter's hand was shaking, she didn't want to sacrifice an innocent life, but the order was clear. As a soldier, she had to obey the general, but as a Huntress, she would have rejected him with all her heart.
For Salem, the time had finally arrived, he had a perfect view of the city of Atlas and felt like a conductor leading a symphony orchestra. The gunshots were like the pleasant, tingly caress of a soft string quartet, the explosions like the gentle but firm caress of a piano, and the screams like the melody of a sweet bell that soothed through his entire being.
The Grimm whales unleashed more and more horrors and came closer and closer to the city. Although the fleet disposed of three of the Monstra Grimms, they were able to do so at the cost of heavy blood loss and the rapid decline of the fleet made it impossible to destroy a fourth.
- I didn't think I would see the destruction of Atlas. - Adam and Mandy watched the show contentedly from the landing platform on the side of the Monstra, where you could see the battle of Atlas. - These arrogant scumbags, who only exploited, ostracized and mutilated our species, are finally getting what they deserve. - The man took off his blindfold, revealing the SDC burn mark on his left eye, and let a pleasant smile appear on his face.
- Isn't it a strange feeling to watch these people die? - Mandy didn't like the fact that she enjoys watching Atlas' final days in the first place.
- Not a bit. - Adam reassured, holding the girl's shoulder. - They get what they deserve.
- It's just... - Mandy was a little uncertain. - I know there are a lot of bad people in that city, but... they can't all be bad.
- Maybe these people cared about us? - Adam wasn't affected by the death of innocent people. - Were they interested in our fate when they made us work as slaves and treated us like animals? We were just numbers and cheap labor for them. If one of us got hurt or sick, they just threw us out.
- I was born there. - Mandy looked out into Mantle Crater, where the faunus slum was. - My parents and I lived in a small hut. - Nostalgia burst out of her. - My parents worked themselves crazy every day and that was just enough to get us through one day. One day my father died while protecting my mother and one day my mother got sick and a crook cheated her of all the money she borrowed illegally. When the debt collectors came and she couldn't pay, they beat her so badly that she died. I was afraid they would come back, so I left and wanted to hide. If Derrick hadn't found me that day... - When she thought of the man who was gone, her heart got hurt.
- I see. - Adam nodded.
- I wanted to destroy Atlas. - Mandy continued to remember. - I wanted all its citizens to suffer because they created such conditions.
- And now your dream comes true. - Adam continued to watch Atlas' battle.
Mandy heard something in the hallway with the faunus hearing. She turned and went in the direction of the sound.
Emerald didn't understand why they had to destroy an entire kingdom to get a cursed relic and began to question if Cinder even cared about her. After all, while she had sacrificed her life for Cinder without a second thought, she wasn't sure that she would do the same. When she saved her, she didn't even show a spark of gratitude or love in her direction. She was worried about what Mercury said until now, but she was already sure that if Cinder had to choose between the Maiden powers and her life, she was afraid that she wouldn't hesitate much to choose the Maiden powers.
Confused, she began to walk the halls of Monstra when she saw Salem's dark, floating, tentacled, skull-shaped crystal orb moving and patrolling the corridors.
She shouldn't have gone into this corridor, as it leads to the prison, where Hazel was interrogating the boy.
Emerald quickly used her Semblance and turned invisible until the crystal ball passed her.
As she continued, she heard soft thuds and cries of pain in the distance. She went in the direction of the sound and found Oscar's cell and heard the increasingly loud banging and shouting. She put her ear to the cell door and began to listen.
- That stunt you did, - She heard Hazel's voice. - she would have killed you if you hadn't turned up somewhere else. You can still make things easier by telling the truth.
- You never thought about it, - Ozpin's weak and weak voice filtered through the door. - why did she enlist you? You exactly, to help you find the relics?
- We want a similar future. - Hazel replied. - She will create a new world order. Without Kingdoms and Hunting Academies.
- "New World Order"? - Ozpin's weak chuckle could be heard. - No. If Salem obtains all four relics, the world will be destroyed. There's nothing left. Don't you understand? She's been alive longer than you can imagine. The only thing she wants is to get rid of everything, that's it. She wants to die.
- Don't lie! - Hazel hit Ozpin again with a grunt. - Salem can't be killed! When she came for me, I tried! Again and again! The most I got was that she disappeared for a few hours and then put herself back together. When I was so tired that I couldn't move, she showed me that through her I could get the revenge I wanted.
- Hazel, don't you understand? - Ozpin's worried voice came through. - That's why she came for you. Because she was able to make you believe that this is what you want.
- This is what you deserve! - Hazel shouted.
- Yes! - Ozpin accepted. - I deserve it! I made a lot of mistakes, many children died because of me and I deserve everything, maybe more, that you have in store for me! But what about Oscar?! And the people of Atlas?! With Remnant?! - His voice trailed off. - Don't you dare say that you did all this in the name of justice. You only did it for yourself. Because she manipulated you until you believed it would help. Right?
Silence and worry reigned in the Schnee family mansion. Ever since Salem launched the attack, the storm brought by the giant Monstra Grimms has covered all of Atlas in complete darkness. People were evacuated to the subway networks, so the entire city was filled with nothing but stray Grimms and the soldiers hunting them.
Fortunately, as long as they lay low, remained quiet and turned off the lights, the Grimms didn't approach the mansion either.
Unfortunately, Nora's condition was still critical, her whole body was covered in orange veins and her breathing was getting weaker and weaker. Her friends laid her on the bed in Weiss' room and Weiss bandaged her injuries, but there was nothing more they could do.
- Now then... what am I good for? - Nora muttered in her sleep after Weiss finished her treatment. She worriedly stroked her hair and felt helpless.
Her two teammates Ruby and Blake quietly entered the room, Ruby brought two cups of coffee with her and Blake drank a cup as well.
- How is she? - Ruby asked worriedly as she handed one of the cups to Weiss.
- I did what I could, - She took the cup and blew on it. - but I'm afraid it won't be enough. We need a doctor here.
- Hopefully, - Blake added. - May will be able to reach the others. I... - She lowered her head in disappointment. - I really hope they're well. - Through the window you could see a red lightning in the storm, which was very ominous. - Salem's giant monsters are creating the Grimms faster than the Atlas army can finish them off. - She stepped in front of the window and looked out at the besieged city. - The city won't stand a chance if we don't stop her.
- They're huge. - Ruby was also horrified at the size and strength of the Grimm whales. - Much bigger than any Grimm we've seen so far. What can we even do about it?
- Penny started Amity and our message got out. - Weiss sat down on a chair by the fireplace. - So... are we just waiting for someone to come? - She didn't believe that anyone would be able or willing to come. - If they come at all.
- How did this all get to this point? - Ruby herself didn't know how to solve this problem as she looked at her coffee.
- Fiona said, - Suddenly, May came into the room, bringing bad news. - that she hasn't heard from your friends for quite some time. Unfortunately, - She put her hands on her hips in frustration. - the last thing they're worried about is a couple of missing kids. - The girls appreciated that May at least tried to get word of the others, but were disappointed that she didn't succeed. - Come on, the car is ready for the return trip and...
- What?! - Weiss stood up indignantly. - We can't leave!
- There's quite a lot of chaos in the Crater! - May clarified sternly. - Atlas has its army here, but Mantle has only us! - She looked towards Ruby and Blake to make them understand the seriousness of the situation. - People will die!
- But people will die here too! - Weiss reminded. - Doesn't your family live here in Atlas?!
- No. - May answered after a few seconds of hesitation. She remembered her family, how she didn't fit in and never felt comfortable around her family, who were only interested in money and fame. Those who did saw her as nothing more than a political tool to whom they could marry her off to bring even more money and influence to the family. - Mantle needed me when the general ordered the embargo, the Happy Huntresses and Mantle became my home and to the Marigolds it meant I was no longer their daughter. - It's clear that she doesn't feel a spark of love for her family. - And I made sure that everyone knew that I was never their daughter. - She turned angrily to the side. - So f*ck them. Mine has Henry, yours has Whitley. - She looked towards Weiss, who was also a rejected heiress, replaced by an arrogant and snot little brother. - Do you understand what I'm talking about?
- But I don't know how... - Weiss was aware of the kind of people the Atlas rich were, who didn't care about anything but money and fame, but she still didn't want to leave anyone behind, not even people like that.
- Whose side are you on anyway?! - May has had enough of the girls hesitating.
- We've heard this before. - This situation eerily reminded Blake of what happened in the White Fang, when Adam offered an ultimatum to her and the other faunus.
Just as General Ironwood now gave them an ultimatum to leave Mantle behind and now May wants to give them an ultimatum to choose, save the people of Atlas or the people of Mantle.
- There are no sides here! - Ruby interjected. - We want to help everyone! We all face Salem together and we can only get out of this if we work together!
- So, - May sighed and took Ruby's advice. - how exactly do we get out of this?
Unfortunately, no one had an answer to this question.
- "As long as this world exists, you will walk on its surface." - Ozpin explained Salem's curse to Hazel. - This was the curse the gods put on her. If Salem manages to irreparably divide humanity and collect all four relics, she believes the curse will be broken. Because then she summons the two gods to pass judgment on humanity. If they decide against us, they will destroy Remnant, once and for all.
- Nice story. - Hazel thought about what he had heard with crossed arms. - But if Gretchen's death taught me anything, it's to never trust you. - He started towards the boy to continue his torture.
"Please let me back!", Oscar begged Ozpin nervously to give him back control.
"But Oscar..." Ozpin didn't want the boy to suffer any more.
"You want him to trust us?!", Oscar had a plan, but he didn't have time to explain it now. "Then trust me!"
Ozpin didn't know what the boy was up to, but for lack of a better option, he relinquished control.
- Her name is Jinn. - Oscar answered.
- What? - Hazel was surprised at the answer.
- If you want her to come out of the Lamp, all you have to do is say her name. - It's unbelievable, but Oscar voluntarily gave the information, for which Hazel has been torturing him for almost a whole day. - There's one more question you can answer.
- After that, - Hazel wasn't sure that the boy was telling the truth. - are you just going to give the password to Salem?! - He grabbed him by the neck of his collars and was sure that he only wanted to make a fool of him.
- No, - Oscar wasn't frightened by the giant man. - I'll give you the password, - He rather felt sorry for Hazel. He didn't seem like a bad person, more like a wounded and manipulated person who was disillusioned with the world and who simply didn't know who to trust. He hoped that if he trusted him, it would help him. - and I hope you find the truth.
Hazel saw no lies in the boy's eyes, but rather pity and regret. It wasn't his intention to mislead him or to save his own life. He simply wanted to ease the pain that had plagued him since his sister died.
Emerald heard everything from Hazel, Ozpin and Oscar's conversation and could hardly believe what she heard and shared it with Mercury. He didn't particularly like the boy, but after what they'd been through together, she felt he had to be involved.
- You know he's a prisoner, Em? - Mercury didn't seem to believe her as he packed his gear into his bag. - He only says what he thinks will help him get out.
- Then you really go to Vacuo, - Emerald could hardly believe that the boy wasn't even interested in her story. - after what I told you before?
- These are Salem's new orders, - Mercury, if he believed Emerald's words, wasn't very excited, he just zipped up his bag and left his room with it on his back. - and I know better than to disobey Salem.
- But... - Emerald was disappointed to note that Mercury was less interested in her than she was in the boy.
- Look, - Mercury stopped at the door and turned back to the girl. - even if what he said is true, we can't stop Salem. - He moved closer to her to understand things with her. - You said it yourself, Hazel tried, failed and got in the line. - He pointed backwards with his thumb. - The big guy won't get into a fight he can't win, and neither should we.
- So you're just following her out of cowardice? - Emerald just looked pointedly at the boy. - Roman and Neo soon realized and switched sides instead.
- This makes no sense! - Mercury just waved and went towards the exit again. - Salem doesn't really destroy the world.
- Of course she will! - Like a shadow, Tyrion appeared in the corridor as soon as Mercury stepped out the door. - Are you surprised? Salem is destruction incarnate! - He explained it as if Salem were some kind of savior whose service would be the holiest thing in the world. - Our mistress wants to see the end of the whole world! - He wrapped his arms around Mercury, his right arm around his neck and his mechanical stinger around his waist. - There is no more beautiful ideal. - He finally released the boy, who nervously took a step back. - If you haven't seen this from the beginning, you're out of your mind. - He explained, with his hands clasped behind his back. - Torchwick and his little girlfriend saw it and they didn't like this idea and they have to pay for it. It's a shame I can't be here to see their punishment.
- Torchwick kokova muro, tu dilo. - Genna also appeared in the corridor, in full armor and resting her rifle on her shoulder. - Your rajni sinavelted, ar jeeveppen I find it.
- Torchwick has done our mistress a lot of harm, Ms. Punch. - Tyrion giggled, it's not known how much he understood from what Genna said, but he came closer to her and the Bounty Huntress stood his crazy look through her helmet. - Because of him, the doctor was caught and because of this, her work was greatly hindered. I hope that what you plan to do with him will be very painful.
- Mah ortunga's to ligler him to Ms. Malachite, jeevepen. - Genna warned, then took the rifle off her shoulder. - It's none of mah business what she sokeres with him.
- Anyway, - Emerald found the armored woman who came with Cinder a bit unusual. - why are you helping us?
- Ah phenelted, - Genna shrugged. - Torchwick is mah bounty and Salem's azsuteling to meh.
- We got it, - Mercury found Genna's speaking style a bit odd. - and can you speak human language?
- Hm, - Genna just smiled as she removed her helmet, revealing her long dark blonde hair in a ponytail, her green eyes, and her freckled, lightly tanned face. - you're waging war to destroy the world. - Genna now spoke exceptionally normally. - I'm doing the Bounty Huntress thing to get money for my wedding. - She looked at Tyrion with a smile. - Is it fair to ask which of us is the crazy one? - She looked at the two young one. - Which will make the world better? - She took her helmet back and started down the corridor. - Certainly not the war.
- Well said, - Tyrion just waved at the Bounty Huntress, then wrapped his arms around Mercury with his mechanical tail. - come on, Mr. Black. - They started in the other direction of the corridor. - You and I have a date in the desert with some royalty.
Emerald went after them and saw Tyrion still dragging Mercury behind him as he put his arm around his neck and lead him to the landing site in Grimm whale. Several planes were parked at the other landing sites, including Genna's Atlasian plane that she had recently recovered, but Tyrion and Mercury boarded a smaller flying car.
Tyrion just pushed the boy into the back seat and he got into the driver's seat.
Mercury took one last look at the girl they had been through so much with after Cinder enlisted them. The girl looked after him sadly, as if she regretted the fact that there was a good chance she wouldn't see the boy again.
Mercury also felt a sort of sadness that it might be the last time he would see her as the car closed, took off, left the Monstra, drifted away and disappeared into the storm clouds.
- You can't blow that thing up, Oscar is still inside! - Yang didn't even want to hear about another Monstra Grimm being blown up, even the biggest one, in which, according to Roman's conclusion, Oscar was also there. She tried to stand up again, but Vine and Elm held her down again.
- These creatures are causing more and more damage and killing people by the minute. - Vine tried to reason rationally. - We can't wait.
- Please Winter, - Jaune stood up as well. - at least give us a chance to try to save him! We... - He tried to think of something to convince Winter. - We could be your scouts!
- You don't speak for all of us, do you?! - Roman really didn't want to go inside that giant Grimm whale.
- Shut up! - Yang silenced.
- You never know what awaits you in there! - Jaune continued, ignoring Roman's objection. - So, we could go ahead to see what you can expect and maybe find Oscar while we're inside! - Everyone looked in shock at Jaune who was either very brave or very crazy.
- Do you really want to get into such trouble? - Marrow, who was sitting in the co-pilot seat, looked at him in confusion.
- Wouldn't you do it for Elm? - Yang reminded the Hunters about camaraderie. - For Harriet? For Vine?
- We can't let personal feelings get in the way of the right decision. - Elm reminded them of military life and the difficulty of decisions that come with it. - Risking five lives for one is simply stupid.
- I agree with Panzer Pam, - Roman felt more secure on the plane as Yang and Jaune glared at him and Neo. - I like the Magic Kid, but I don't think it's worth risking our lives for.
- It's worth it. - To everyone's surprise, Ren took the floor. - He's our friend. We will do everything we can to find him because we care. - It's unbelievable, but the always quiet Ren, who only spoke in one-line sentences and always made the most logical decisions, now explained in a longer sentence that he would risk anything, together with his friends, to save Oscar.
- I really thought you were the smartest of the bunch, - Harriet handed the control of the plane to Marrow, then stood up and looked at Ren with contempt. - but you seem to be just as naive. Feelings don't matter, the mission does. - She put a smug smile on her face. - If you lose someone from your team, you move on. They are being replaced, - The faunus pointed at the man. - as Marrow replaced Tortuga and Winter replaced...
- NO! - Ren jumped up angrily. - No one can be replaced! - Ren saw something strange on Harriet, who was staring at him angrily and red leaves were flying around her and understood something. - You... you don't even believe that. - Ren saw perfectly into Harriet's soul and knew exactly what was the source of her anger. - You're angry about losing Clover and you miss him.
- You don't know anything about me! - Harriet refused to acknowledge it and shouted angrily at Ren.
Ren looked curiously at the other members of the Ace Ops and Marrow was surrounded by the same blue leaves and understood that he was sad. Orange leaves flew around Elm, which meant that he didn't agree with the order, and green leaves flew around Vine, which meant that he prioritized rationality and he didn't think the general would think rationally either.
Finally, pink leaves flew around him, symbolizing love. Yes, Ren loved his friends and would do anything to save even one of them.
- That's why you lost to Team RWBY. - Ren realized. - You, you tried to fight against your feelings for each other and thus you will never really work as a team.
- Shut up! - Elm didn't want to accept what was so clear to Ren. - You have no idea what you're talking about! - She tried to strike Ren, but Winter stood between them and stopped her.
- Everyone calm down!
- The Ninja Kid does it well. - Roman was also surprised by Ren's speech.
Winter looked around at the youngsters, Roman and Neo, and considered Jaune's offer.
- Okay, - Winter agreed. - we bring you as close as possible to the biggest monster.
- You can't be serious! - Harriet disagreed. - These are fugitives, traitors and criminals!
- I outrank you. - Winter instructed Harriet in turn, who turned back angrily and then looked at the team. - If you don't get out in time, we'll drop the bomb. It doesn't matter what happens.
- We understand. - Jaune took the risk, as did Ren and Yang.
- We don't have to go, do we? - Roman hoped that he and Neo could stay here. - As exciting as this Grimm whale tour sounds, me and Neo would rather...
- Either you went with them, or we'll take you back to Atlas' prison, to Ironwood. - Winter warned the two criminals. - If I remember correctly, the general made you a promise in Beacon.
- Cold and cruel. - Roman shook his head and stood up, indicating that he was going with the kids, Neo followed him. - You will remain single even at the age of 40.
The plane began to descend and soon reached the front line, then flying over the Grimms, approached the largest Monstra Grimm as the Ace Ops removed the handcuffs from the team members. The plane's door opened and the giant Grimm whale was barely 100 meters away from them, with Grimms still pouring out of its mouth.
- You don't like that either. - Ren clearly read it from Marrow, with whom they were facing each other. - In fact, you don't even want to be a part of this anymore.
- I... - Marrow knew that Ren saw through him and he was right. The things he had done, and the things he was commanded to do, he absolutely condemned and considered terrible. - I have a task and I will do it. - He went back to the cockpit.
Yang, Jaune, Roman and Neo readied their weapons and got off the plane to save their friends.
- I know you don't either. - Ren said to Winter before following his friends. Leaves of all colors flew around Winter, indicating that she knew what to do, she just couldn't make up her mind.
It wasn't another way for the rest of the RWBY team, a decision had to be made, either Atlas or Mantle would be saved and this wasn't May's ultimatum, but a fact. May made the decision that Team RWBY disagreed with.
- And what about Robyn and Qrow?! - Ruby listed, trying to convince May to stay as they walked down the hall stairs. - Maybe if we get them out of where they're being held, then...
- No! - May wouldn't like to hear of her staying in Atlas any longer while the people in Mantle, the people she considers her true people, are in danger. - You just don't get it! - She stopped and turned back to Ruby. - This isn't a win-win situation! You're coming with me now to help Mantle, - She sternly raised her finger and pointed at them. - or I'll kick you out at the front, - She angrily pointed towards the door. - if you still want to help Atlas! Your uncle and Robyn can't save us. We have to choose. - May finally gave the ultimatum. - So choose.
Before Team RWBY could answer, there was a knock on the main entrance door. Everyone immediately took out their weapons and slowly approached the door, which Weiss slowly and carefully opened a crack. When she saw who had arrived, a relieved smile appeared on her face.
- Klein! - It was an older man in his 50s, of medium height, in a suit, balding, with a large brown mustache and a briefcase in his hand.
- Ms. Schnee. . Klein raised his hat to Weiss. - I heard that there is an injured person who needs my help.
- I... - Weiss felt guilty and blamed herself for her father kicking her out for helping her escape from Atlas. - I'm so sorry, Klein. It's my fault that dad...
- Please don't worry, my Snowflake. - The man's brown eyes suddenly turned green and his voice became louder as he took off his hat. - It had nothing to do with you, - He took his hat back, his eyes turned red, his voice deepened and he angrily entered the mansion. - only to Jacques.
- Who's he? - Ruby asked Weiss curiously.
- This is Klein, - Weiss introduced the man, with whom they clearly knew each other well. - he's butler of our family or... was... - He finished a little broken. - But he was more for me and Winter, because he raised us.
- It's nice of you to come here. - Blake admitted that the man came at the best possible time.
- Wait, - Weiss shook her head and wanted to know something. - how did you know...
- Ah, young Whiley. - Klein's eyes turned light blue when he saw the boy walking down the stairs. - I'm so glad you called! Could you tell me where's the patient? If I understand correctly, it's an urgent case.
- Yes, - Whitley replied. - she's in Weiss's room. Just go up and...
- I haven't been away that long, Mr. Whitley. - Klein knew the mansion well, where he served the Schnee family for more than 20 years and practically raised all three Schnee children. - I think I will find the way.
- Did you call Klein? - Weiss could hardly believe what she saw. - When you said you were calling someone, I didn't think it was Klein.
- That girl needs a doctor. - Whitley scratched the back of his head awkwardly. - I didn't do it for you. - He then sulked and looked to the side so that his sister wouldn't see how embarrassed he was.
- I know. - Weiss smiled proudly at her younger brother who, after so much time, finally, out of their father's toxic environment, did what was right. - That's why it means so much to me. - Whitley was simply unable to understand, because his sister had just done something that had never been seen before. She gave him a hug, which he returned after a moment of hesitation.
The relationship between Weiss and Whitley had always been tense and hostile, and both siblings would have jumped in front of a pack of Grimm before hugging the other, but the ice was broken today. Weiss and Whitley finally reconciled and from then on proudly called each other brothers.
Unfortunately, the joyous moment was interrupted by a mad and loud knocking on the front door. Someone really wanted to get into the mansion.
- Did you call anyone else? - Weiss asked her brother worriedly as everyone looked at the door suspiciously, not knowing if it was a good idea to open it.
This time it was Ruby who walked over to the door and carefully opened it and to everyone's shock it was Lance on the other side.
- Help... - He panted through his helmet, clearly completely exhausted, panting and barely standing. His armor was damaged, dented in several places and covered in some strange green liquid. - Help her... - He was holding the unconscious Penny in his arms, who looked like she had been seriously beaten, her right glove was gone, her hand was burned, sparks were flying around her body and there was a cut on his back, from which the green liquid was pouring out. - Save her...
Lance finally collapsed in the doorway and everything was engulfed in darkness. He managed to make it to the Schnee mansion, finding Ruby and the others who might be able to save Penny, whom he swore to protect.
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