Halo, it's time for the newest chapter. The Volume 7 has started.
At the edge of the snowy forest near Argus, blows, shots and strikes broke the silence of nature.
A hard punch to Ruby's stomach from Roman was enough to push her backwards into the snow.
- Your style is still predictable, Little Red. - Roman just rolled Melodic Cludgel on his finger. - Don't you want to come up with something new?
Ruby raised Crescent Rose and charged at Roman again, but the gangster only dodged the first blow, ducked the second, parried the third with a Melodic Cludgel, but before Ruby could attempt a fourth, Roman caught the scythe's handle and took a swipe at her.
The girl didn't let go of her weapon, so her whole body drew closer to the man, who punched her in the face, causing her to drop the scythe and fall backwards, against a tree.
- I have your weapon. - Roman put Crescent Rose on his shoulder. - Now what?
Ruby just grunted, she used her Semblance to fly up to a tree branch and was about to jump from there to another, but she felt something get caught in the hood of her cloak and pull her to the ground, causing her to find herself face down in the snow again.
- Will you run away and cry without your weapon? – Roman retracted Melodic Cludgel's hook, which had just pulled Ruby to the ground.
Ruby tried to stand up and counterattack, but as soon as she saw Crescent Rose's blade heading towards her, she somersaulted backwards, but Roman continued to attack her with her own weapon, forcing Ruby to back down on all fours until she hit a tree.
Roman, even if he couldn't swing her scythe as well as her, was enough to corner her and as soon as that happened, Ruby cowered in terror, preparing for the final blow, but she felt nothing but a small sting on her face.
Roman touched the tip of Crescent Rose's blade to her cheek and she looked up at him in relief.
- You died. – Roman just dropped the scythe next to her.
- Don't you think you're being a little cruel to her?! – Yang, who had been watching angrily as the gangster practiced with her sister.
- I'm trying to prepare for the worst. - Roman just leaned on Melodic Cludgel with one hand while helping Ruby up with the other.
- You keep fighting dirty. - Ruby also dusted off the snow indignantly. - You are gaining an unfair advantage.
- And do you think Cinder or Salem will fight fair? – Roman just lit a cigar. - Nicely, properly and politely? No, - Roman just blew out the cigar smoke. – they'll fight dirty, cheating, using every advantage. They aren't deterred by the fact that it is unfair.
- That's why… - Ruby added as she just clutched her side. - we have to be better than them.
- Yes! - Yang agreed with her sister. - If we're stronger and more skilled, it doesn't matter what unfair advantage they get.
- Who taught you this? - Roman just laughed as he took another smoke from his cigar. - Some arrogant *sshole at your fancy Academy?
- Our father! - Yang said in an offended tone. - Don't you dare insult him!
- I still don't get it, - Ruby, as much blue and green bruises as she got from so many beatings, she understood less what Roman was trying to achieve. – what should I learn from this?
- Hmm, - Roman blew out the smoke in frustration and shook his head. – so, you don't understand.
- What?! – The girl burst out. - Why don't you just tell me?
- If I handed you everything on a silver platter, what would you learn?! - Roman was angry for the first time, which scared both girls. - There are things you have to figure out on your own!
- I've had enough of this, - Yang crossed her arms offended and glared at Roman. – from the secrecy!
- Really? - Roman just smiled. - What if you fight me now?
- Seriously? - Yang, if he was surprised by the gangster's offer, but she was happy about it.
- I'm well aware that you've been wanting to beat up my face for a long time. - Roman just raised his hat. - If I manage to get my hat off my head, I'll show you a surefire trick to defeat Cinder.
- Indeed?! – The eyes of the two sisters lit up and Yang threw herself into the challenge with joy. - Don't worry, sis, I'll... - She couldn't even finish because Roman immediately hit her in the head with Melodic Cludgel. - Hey! - Yang stepped back angrily, her head aching.
- Are you waiting for the bell? - Roman held his cane in both hands. – It's already started!
- You didn't say anything! - Yang was just able to block Roman's next blow.
- Oh, - Roman shot back. – should I have said? Now I'm going to hit from the left, - Slowly and delicately he started the stick towards the girl. - I repeat, from the left. - Yang dodged the slow, snail-speed blow that had no power in it. - Now I'm going to hit again, from above, I repeat, from above. - He gave the same, slow and weak blow to Yang's head, who just pushed the cane aside in offense. – Do I warn you on time? - Roman scoffed. - Am I slow enough?
- Don't make fun of me! – Yang opened fire at the man with the wrist gauntlet, Ember Celica, on her left hand.
She then charged at Roman with her fists, who blocked Yang's blows with his cane and his other hand, but she was clearly the stronger and more experienced in bare-handed combat, forcing Roman to back away.
Yang was about to deliver a powerful blow to the man that would have sent him to the floor for sure if he didn't dodge to the side in time and after successfully dodging, Roman angered Yang even more when he slapped Yang's butt with his cane and laughed.
The girl's eyes turned red and she was no longer interested in the challenge, she just wanted to land a blow on this arrogant bastard and pounced on him with full force. Roman is just waiting for that, he took the other end of Melodic Cludgel in his hand and as soon as Yang got close enough, he bent down, hooked the hooked end of the stick in one of the girl's ankles and after standing up, he gave it a big pull, causing Yang to slip out from under the ground and fall onto her stomach.
After turning to stand up, Roman stepped on her chest and pressed Melodic Cludgel's end into her face, keeping her on the ground.
Bang
Roman's trilby hat flew through the air, with two holes, which smoked and fell to the ground. Roman took his eyes off Yang, who was lying on the ground and vulnerable and looked at Ruby, who was holding the Crescent Rose that had been transformed into a scoped rifle, the barrel of which was smoking.
- You said, - Ruby cocked and lowered the rifle. – if we manage to push the hat off your head, it's not Yang who has to do it.
- Are you reading between the lines, Little Red? - Roman got off Yang and put on and dusted off his trilby hat. - You're still the brains of the team. I hope, - He looked back at Yang, who got up offended. – there's no anger that I defeated you, Blondie?
- You cheated! - Yang dusted herself angrily. - You wouldn't stand a chance in a fair fight!
- Then what would be the point of a fair fight? - Roman just smiled and spread his arms.
- Then, - Ruby just stared at the man curiously, ignoring Crescent Rose. – what's the trick I'm supposed to use to beat Cinder?
- Didn't you pay attention? - Roman nudged towards Yang. - I just introduced it on your sister.
- What? - The two sisters shook their heads curiously.
- Cinder is stronger than most, the power of Fall Maiden makes her a very dangerous opponent, but she has weaknesses that can be exploited. One that always works with stronger opponents, instead of you climbing up to their level, pull them down to your level. The other, Cinder, is a rabid dog who always does what she wants and if she senses the power of another Maiden, she will have serious pipe vision, which is easy to exploit.
- In short, - Yang didn't like what Roman was implying. – exploit the enemy's weaknesses and preferably attack when she's unarmed?
- That's the surest target. - Roman shrugged smugly and then turned to Ruby. - The point is to do something unexpected that she wouldn't expect from you.
- I think, - Ruby's eyes lit up. - I understand!
- Really? - Roman twirled Melodic Cludgel in his hand. – Show me.
Roman charged at Ruby again as Ruby also twirled Crescent Rose in her hand. When Roman got close enough, she just tossed her scythe into the air, which surprised him but he didn't take her eyes off Ruby, who used her Semblance again and slid between Roman's legs in the form of a pile of rose petals. She took human form again and kicked Roman directly in the knee, who dropped to one knee, then grabbed his scythe and pointed the blade straight at his throat.
- What do you think? - Ruby asked with a confident smile.
- Heh, - Roman just proudly turned to him. - slowly, but we achieved results.
- I guess, - Ruby lowered Crescent Rose and put it away. – I'm getting better at this unfair fight thing... - She began to grip her side painfully. - Oh, my ribs!
She had spent the whole day being taught how to fight by Roman, who had absolutely no qualms about hitting the strong with Melodic Cludgel, which was perfect for hitting someone painfully. By evening, Ruby's body was full of blue and green bruises and there was a good chance that one of her ribs was broken, but finally, she manages to defeat Roman once.
- You could have restrained yourself a bit. - Yang said as they walked back towards Argus.
- Come on, - Roman just shrugged. - she got bigger ones in Beacon. If it had been a real fight, she would surely not be alive.
- Did you teach Neo so strictly? - Ruby inquired, using Crescent Rose as a crutch. Roman was just lost in the past, in the Vale days.
- I didn't have to. - He finally answered. - Neo was natural. - He lit a cigar. – She understood at first everything I said, besides, she had a different training than you.
Back at Argus, the sun was setting, but while Ruby and Yang spent the rest of their time with Roman, the others packed up what they needed, said their goodbyes to Saph and her family, and headed to the military base.
- How was the practice? - Blake asked as she and Yang hugged each other.
- I still don't like him, - Yang just smiled and rolled her eyes and looked at Roman. – but he showed some interesting tricks.
- I can't wait to get to Atlas! – Mike was excited about the trip to Atlas. – There are many cinemas, restaurants and galleries in the upper town!
- We're not going on vacation, Mike! - Lance told him.
- Even then, - Nora was next to Mike and was more excited about the sights than the mission. – a floating city is not an everyday sight!
- Concentrate, Nora. - Ren was more purposeful.
- Ms. Calavera… - Jaune just looked worriedly at the slightly madly giggling, half-blind old woman, holding a bag of cashews and a paper cup of soda.
- Cordo will definitely be overseeing the trip, - Like a child about to play a mean prank, she started crunching some cashews. - she must be freaking out that she has to put up with me too.
- Just try to be friendly. - Jaune hoped Maria's disagreement with Cordo wouldn't cause more problems.
The gate of the military base opened and there stood the commander herself, Cordovin, with her usual stiff posture, but her face didn't reflect her usual arrogant smile, but rather nervousness and annoyance at being given an order that she didn't agree with at all.
- Ruby Rose! – She immediately called Ruby, she would have shyly moved forward, but someone grabbed her shoulder from behind.
- Just be confident, Little Red. - Roman whispered one last piece of advice to her, and Ruby smiled gratefully back at him.
- I'm here! - Ruby stepped forward firmly and tried to look as confident as she could.
- I received orders from General Ironwood, - Cordo continued formally, as if she had no interest in her company. – to escort you and your entire company to your court, as safely as possible.
- Then, - Ruby shrugged and smiled. - let's not keep the general waiting.
- I agree. - Cordo looked back at the rest of the team. - Are they all coming? – She tried to intimidate and unsettle Ruby with her piercing gaze, but she held the commander's gaze.
- Yes. They're all. - Cordo, seeing that she had achieved nothing by intimidation, realized that there was no need to hold the girl and her team up any longer.
- Then come. – Cordo turned and led the girl towards the airport, who waved to her team that the way was clear.
- Well, - Roman just supported Melodic Cludgel on his shoulder and started at the head of the team. - she learns slowly, but at least she learns.
In strict silence, Cordo led the team to a large passenger plane, with two armored soldiers standing by the ramp.
- Just take off and you will find yourself in Atlas as soon as possible. – Cordo stopped in front of the ramp, she clearly wanted to get the team out of Argus as quickly as possible.
- Is it okay, - Maria stopped in front of her and munched on a small cashew. – if I bring a small snack on the way? - Cordo's right eye trembled with each bite.
- And me, - And Roman lit another cigar. – if I smoke? - He tapped the cigar with his finger, the ash of which fell onto the ramp of the clean plane.
- Where are you thinking? – Cordo forced a wide grin on her face while filtering out the words between her teeth, clearly bursting with anger.
- We just wanted to make sure! - Maria got on the plane with a giggle, followed by the others. - Did you see her face? – There was a long row of two-person seats on the plane, and Maria sat down on one of them.
- Are you sure it's a good idea to joke like that? – Oscar sat down next to her worriedly. - She'll throw us out of the sky.
- Come on, son, - Maria put her hand on the boy's shoulder reassuringly. - it would be totally worth it. – She put her feet on top of the seat in front of her, which was also against the rules and took another handful of cashews in her mouth.
The others also took their seats in a two seat each, Yang and Blake were in one seat, then Ren and Nora, Lance and Mike, Ruby and Roman and Jaune were sitting alone.
- Eventually we just get to Atlas. - Ruby happily looked out the window as the plane began to take off.
- I said, Little Red, - Roman just extinguished the butt of his cigar in the ashtray placed in the seat. – a little patience and thinking can do miracles.
- Lucky to have you with us, Roman. – The girl turned back to the thug and although she was really happy for his help, she was curious about something after this afternoon's training.
- You want to ask me something. - Roman found out.
- Well... - Ruby scratched the back of her head nervously. - Just today you mentioned that Neo was easier to teach than me because she had some training.
- Yeah.
- Maybe she studied to be a Huntress a long time ago?
- Not quite, - This time he took a soft drink from the buffet cart passing by. - she studied elsewhere. Not at a posh academy like you and your friends.
- Then… - Ruby remembered how talented Neo proved to be in combat, since neither Yang nor she was an opponent for her. - where? And how did you even meet?
- Studied at Lady Browning Preparatory Academy. Neo and many other girls were trained as spies and assassins. Neo was sent there by her parents to learn to behave properly.
- And how did you get into the picture? - Ruby became more and more fascinated by Roman's story.
- I was her target. – Roman drank his small soft drink and looked angrily at the tiny plastic bottle. – Still, what's the point of producing small 0.33l bottles? But let them sell the drinks expensively.
- To the point! – Ruby sat on pins and needles and waited for the continuation. - How did you become from being her target to her boyfriend?
- We met before I was her target. – Roman remembered that day as if it happened only yesterday. - She saved my life. A few days later, she was assigned to set up a trap, but... - Roman always smiled whenever he thought about this. – she's not the type who easily submits to the will of others. She escaped secretly, we met, I taught her everything I know and we carried out small and large robberies.
- You miss her, don't you? – Ruby couldn't help but notice the sadness on Roman's face every time he thought about Neo.
- I didn't think she would betray me like this. – Roman just looked out the window, he saw that they were flying among the clouds, and below them was the endless sea. - I felt that she was the perfect partner in the profession and... - His voice trailed off a bit. - I thought she loved me.
- I'm sorry. – Ruby hadn't seen this side of Roman yet, he was vulnerable and sensitive.
- Every time you pass by me or are near me, I imagine it's her, but... - Roman just took a deep breath. - it's just you.
- Oh. - Ruby looked to the side awkwardly.
- No... I didn't mean it as an insult... just...
- We have arrived in Atlas! – Nora interrupted the awkward conversation with an excited jump.
The big one of the team jumped up to look out the window at the city of Atlas, which presented an amazing sight.
- You can come to Atlas as many times as you want, but you will never get used to this view. – Maria just proudly explained.
- But this... - Yang noticed something disturbing in the night sky.
- As if they were preparing for war. - Blake was also uncomfortably touched by the dozens of cruisers and hundreds of fighters patrolling the floating city.
- I don't understand. - Ruby couldn't place this kind of military preparedness either, which was worrying rather than radiating security. - What's going on?
- It doesn't matter, - Jaune stepped forward confidently. - we are here now. We brought the lantern to Atlas and they escort us straight to Ironwood, just like Roman said. Straight to Weiss.
- But why are the Atlas planes marching so aggressively? - Lance couldn't help it either.
- Does Ironwood know about Salem? – Roman was interested.
- Qrow said, - Ruby was sure of that. - that the headmasters of the Academy are his chosen people, whom he did initiate.
- Then it's clear. - Roman figured it out right away. – Terrified of Salem in Beacon, he called his army back to spend the winter here while Salem destroyed the rest of the world.
- But this… - Yang could hardly believe her ears. She didn't know the general like that.
- Cruelty. - Blake finished.
- Those who are considered perfect are actually the biggest *ssholes. – Roman quoted one of his favorite sayings and everyone looked at him worriedly. - I'm not sure if Ironwood is trustworthy, much less if he'll be able to help.
- But... - Ruby didn't really understand why Roman helped them come up with ideas if he didn't trust the general. – we got here based on your plan. If you don't think Ironwood can help, then…
- I just brought you here. – Roman interrupted. - As soon as I get my reward, I'm off.
- What?! - Yang was outraged when she heard this. - Are you leaving us?
- That's what our agreement said.
The team members didn't think they would ever miss Roman, but they did.
- We have arrived at the Atlas Academy. – The pilot informed them and already landed the plane at the landing field of the Academy.
Everyone lined up at the landing ramp and a tense silence came over them, as they didn't know what to expect, whether the general would believe them, whether they would still see Weiss and Qrow, and whether Roman's concern with Ironwood was true.
- Then... - Ren was the first to speak. - what should we do?
- I don't know yet. - Ruby was unsure as well. - But let's be careful what we say.
- We will follow you, Ruby. - Blake assured him that the team was on his side, which made her smile pleasantly.
- Don't be nervous. - The fact that Roman put his hand on her shoulder calmed her down.
The ramp finally opened and the team members had a million thoughts running through their minds, but when they saw Winter Schnee waiting for them, with Qrow and Weiss with her, their hearts were relieved, and Team RWBY, JNR, and LLMM relentlessly rushed over to hug their long-lost friend, Weiss.
- I missed you! - Weiss was simply beside herself with joy.
- Well, we missed you too! - Ruby was so happy to see her best friend again.
- Don't disappear again, Ice Queen! - Yang didn't hide her joy either.
- What was it like traveling with Qrow? - Blake was more interested in her trip.
- Better not ask! - Weiss just rolled her eyes.
- I'm glad you didn't get in trouble. - Jaune was probably the happiest to see his girlfriend all right. Weiss didn't even wait long to jump into the boy's arms again and kiss him.
- See, - As soon as the kiss ended, they looked into each other's eyes. - nothing went wrong.
- Weiss, - Weiss flinched as soon as she heard her sister's stern voice. – you never mentioned that you have a boyfriend!
- What… - Weiss's face turned red. - I think…I forgot…he's… - Before she could continue, Jaune cut her off and confidently stepped forward.
- My name is Jaune Arc, - He held out his right hand. – I've heard a lot about you… - Winter's stern gaze would have pierced even the hardest armor and frozen the blood in Jaune's veins. - ma'am. – Winter stared at the boy in silence for a while, who then shuddered from her frozen gaze.
- Nice to meet you, Jaune Arc. – Winter continued to stare at the boy with her stern and frightening gaze, who nearly collapsed in terror. He swallowed nervously, then spoke shakily but again.
- I'd like to make it clear... that my intentions are fair and... I wouldn't do anything... that would hurt Weiss, whom I love very much.
- I strongly recommend it. – Winter didn't mean this as a threat, but as a warning. - Because I love Weiss a lot too, and I wouldn't be happy if someone hurt her, even in the slightest.
Winter gave Jaune one last sign that she was watching before she left the party.
- Wow, - Jaune let out a nervous breath like he was under interrogation. – is she always so strict?
- Are you kidding? – Weiss just patted his back appreciatively. - She was nice now.
Meanwhile Ruby and Yang both hugged their beloved uncle Qrow, who was incredibly happy to see his nieces.
- Hey, Firecracker, Rose Petal! - That was Ruby and Yang's nickname, he didn't know if he could ever call the girls that again, so he was very happy to hug both girls.
- You did it, Uncle Qrow. - Ruby looked at her uncle proudly.
- We fixed it, old man. - Yang just punched him in the arm.
- Who are you calling old?! - Qrow retorted with only feigned offense.
- Ruby, - Weiss, after she was done introducing Jaune to her sister, had something important to say. – you won't believe who we met!
- With who? – Ruby couldn't imagine, but when she saw that someone she hadn't seen for a long time was staring at them from the other side of the airport, more precisely, directly at her, she was completely excited. - Penny? - Ruby was at a loss for words when she saw her long-believed-to-be-dead friend staring at her with bright and happy eyes like she couldn't believe her eyes.
- Sal- - Penny got down on one knee as if she was preparing for a long run. – u- - Ruby and the others were a little confused as to what she might be up to. – tation! – Finally, she launched herself and flew towards Ruby at full speed, while the rest of the team just stood aside.
- AH NO! - Ruby was horrified to realize that she was Penny's target to hug her with such force that she would have to go to a chiropractor for months, just like in Beacon.
There was nothing to be done and Penny caught Ruby and flew her up into the air, over the edge of the airport into the clouds and hundreds of miles from the ground, from where Atlas soared, they hugged each other while Penny was driven by love and joy to seeing her long-lost friend again, Ruby was holding on to keep herself from falling.
Once Penny felt they had hugged enough, they landed at the airport to join the rest of the team.
- It's an indescribably great pleasure to see you all again! - Penny turned to the others.
- Penny… - Ruby, as soon as her heartbeat was back to normal and she gathered herself, continued to stare in amazement at the girl who seemed to have come back from the dead. - I… I thought you…
- Dead? - A male voice finished Ruby's sentence. An old, dark-skinned man, a robot, came over in a six-legged chair, with a short, framed gray beard, bald, but gray hair framed most of the back of his head. The robotic chair he used made it clear that he couldn't stand, a pair of reddish-brown shoes, beige pants, a pale-yellow shirt, a light red tie, a reddish-brown vest, the breast pocket of which was full of pens, rulers and other writing aids, a round pair of glasses and he wore a green hat. - On a certain level, indeed. - Fortunately, when we reclaimed and brought the Amity arena to Atlas, we successfully retrieved her body, her processor and core largely intact. It took some time, but…
- I'm as good as new! – Penny confidently finished the man's sentence. - Even better! Also, I am the protector of the city below! Mantle!
- That's my daughter! – The man looked at the girl as if she were his own and not only because he probably created her, but also because he felt a much more serious attachment to her. - We didn't let falling to pieces stop us!
- I knew it would be weird. - Weiss just rolled her eyes, even though she already knew this, she still wasn't used to Penny and her father's individual style.
- But it's particularly effective. - Blake couldn't believe her eyes either.
- Just like the old Penny. – Especially not Yang.
- Good to see you again, old friend! - Maria stepped forward from among them and went to the man rather than to an old acquaintance. For a while, the man didn't seem like someone he knew, but as soon as he thought a little, it occurred to him that he had seen her somewhere, but he didn't know who.
- Ah, yes! Yes... - He shook his head, but didn't jump in. - We met! - He knew it. - But where? – He awkwardly admitted that he didn't know how he could know.
- Cybernetic optical implants. – Maria poked at her vision device, which sparkled. - You set it up and maintain it for me every 10 years. Remember? - The man narrowed his eyes, shook his head even more, and then in a sudden moment he shouted out loud that he finally recognized the old woman in front of him.
- Maria! Of course! Your cybernetic optical implants, - They kindly held each other's hands and started walking. - which I adjust and maintain every 10 years! Has it been that long?
- Yes, - Maria just waved. - I get old like a good wine. I would have been here sooner if I hadn't stumbled upon these kids who needed guidance. – Their conversation was interrupted by Yang, who felt that they were being left out of the conversation quite a bit.
- Uh, sorry, but who are you? - Yang looked at the old man in the robotic chair.
- How impatient. - Maria just shook her head. - I didn't think it was necessary to introduce Atlas's most brilliant scientist.
- Pietro Pollendina. – The old man introduced himself and it became clear from his name that he could have created Penny. – Penny told a lot about you, team RWBY, JNPR and LLMM.
- We have to make up for a lot of things! – Penny excitedly grabbed Ruby's shoulders and started pulling her. - I cannot wait for it!
- I'm glad - General Ironwood, who had just arrived at the airport, ended the joyful conversations, although he was reluctant, as he saw how happy friends and loved ones who hadn't seen each other for a long time were. – that so many of you can see each other again, but we have many things to talk about now. – He pointed the way, straight towards the entrance of the Academy.
- What do you want to talk about, General? - Ruby was the first to ask as they made their way up a flight of stairs.
- For example, - The general stopped and a group of soldiers came, pointing guns at a certain member of the group. – why are you with a convicted criminal who participated in the Fall of Beacon. – The soldiers and Winter also pointed their weapons at Roman.
- Whoa, whoa, - Roman just laughed nervously and put his hands up, despite the beard and the new appearance, the general recognized him. - that was so long ago! Can't we put a veil over the past?
- Wait! - Ruby stood between Roman and the general. - He's with us! He helped us and we couldn't have gotten to Atlas without him!
- Yes, - Roman tried to sell himself in his sweetest voice. - I'm a good boy!
- Roman Torchwick's wanted, - Winter took out her Scroll and searched for Roman's file. – for multiple robberies, smuggling, abuse of illegal weapons and explosive dust, vandalism of public and private property, bribery, threats, blackmail, cooperation with the White Fang terrorist organization, for seizing an Atlas cruiser and destroying two others, hundreds of civilians, for endangering the life and causing the death of a soldiers, hunters and huntresses and for smoking in an illegal place. Also, you were one of Salem's men who cracked the codes of the Atlas robots and machines sent to the Vale, thereby destroying our defenses and giving the Grimm a free path to Beacon.
- Ah, the good old days. – Roman remembered well what he had done in Cinder's service and it didn't seem as if he really regretted them and only looked at his profile. - A handsome and dangerous fellow.
- Joke all you want. – Ironwood didn't prefer to see Roman either, but he still remembered their last conversation. - But if I remember correctly, - One of the soldiers headed to handcuffed him. – I made you a promise that we would have time to talk together.
- Back off! – Yang and the rest of team RWBY stood protectively around Roman like a friend they were determined to protect, which completely surprised the general.
- Roman Torchwick is our friend who helped us out in many difficult situations! - Weiss nailed it.
- It would have been much more difficult to get to Atlas without him! - Blake joined in as well.
- He's not the enemy. - Ruby assured the general.
- Oh, - Roman's heart softened when he saw how much team RWBY was protecting him. – girls, I didn't think I meant so much to you.
- All right. – Ironwood sighed and then signaled to his men that they could go back and take the handcuffs off Roman.
- I handled it, - Roman freed himself from the handcuffs and gave it to the soldier. - thank you though.
- Awesome! - Nora could hardly believe her eyes how easily Roman got out of the handcuffs. - Are you going to teach this to us?
- Later, - Roman reassured. - first, - He rubbed his palms together hopefully and turned to the general. – can we talk about my reward?
- Your reward? - Ironwood narrowed his tired, stern eyes suspiciously.
- I risked quite a bit by bringing these kids here and of course, - Roman poked his head at the lantern hanging from Ruby's belt. - that shiny junk too.
- Hm, - Ironwood's gaze kept shifting from Roman, to the lamp, and then to Ruby, who made it clear that she trusted Roman. – we will come up with something that will be satisfactory. – He signaled to two soldiers to accompany Roman to another locality, who went with them without any problems.
- We'll see each other again, Little Red. - Roman just waved before they turned a corner.
- Then now... - Yang just looked after him, outraged and surprised. - is he leaving us?
- Come. - General Ironwood commanded the team.
Maria stayed behind with Pietro to reminisce about the good old days while the others, Qrow, Oscar, Team RWBY, JNR and LLMM followed the General to the Atlas Academy Headmaster's office. Weiss and Qrow were already familiar with the dome-like room, which had a perfect view of the city of Atlas through large glass windows.
- I was very happy, - The general relaxed a bit and was calmer than at the airport. – when I found out that you were at the border.
- I see you have brought the relic of Knowledge. – Winter remarked as she examined the relic at Ruby's.
- You… - Ruby didn't know if it would be appropriate to introduce Winter and Penny to the relics and Salem.
- They know about it, - Qrow cleared their doubts. – Also, about Salem, the relics, and the Maidens.
- I started to worry with Ozpin's disappearance, - The general lowered his head. – because Salem returns every time, stronger than before. I'm afraid Ozpin was only able to hinder her. – He sighed tiredly, but his gaze was determined. - Unless we destroy her.
Ruby looked worried at the general and realized that he didn't know that Salem was immortal and couldn't be killed.
- And… - Ruby was trying to get as much information as possible, that's why she asked. – what about the Atlas relic?
- The Staff of Creation? - Ironwood replied.
- It is safe and locked away in the Vault. - Penny replied.
- And Winter Maiden? - Blake asked.
- She's safe and in a stable condition for the time being. – Winter gave the answer.
- Is your condition stable? - Yang shrugged. – What does that...
- She's not young. - Weiss replied. - She's old and doesn't have much time left.
The team, although they disagreed with Ironwood's methods, it was clear that he was also against Salem.
- I know this looks bad now, - The general sighed. - that I called back my army. The embargo. I probably don't seem the most reliable right now.
- Then why do you continue? - Blake asked.
- We heard on the news that people are suffering in Mantle! - Nora warned.
- I had to make sure that Salem couldn't infiltrate Atlas. - The general continued. - And to the army, - He purposefully pointed to the ground. – I need to protect people.
- But they don't protect them, they oppress them! - Yang said. - They hate you for it!
- This... - Ironwood sighed again. – is the price I am willing to pay. – He pressed a button on the computer built into his desk. - As you all were entrusted with the knowledge of Salem's existence, - A shutter descended in front of the windows, creating darkness. - I'm asking you to trust me. I have a plan. – In the middle of the office, a small, round platform rose from the floor. - Ozpin's opinion is that the best way to fight Salem is to do it in secret. - He stepped closer to the rising platform. - Whether this is the right choice or not, I don't know. – As soon as the platform rose high enough, it opened and became a round table. – However, we now find ourselves in a situation where it would be advisable to use a new approach.
- And what do you suggest? - Qrow inquired as the general pressed a button on a remote that caused light blue lights to light up on the table and above it hovered a familiar diamond shaped structure that was familiar to everyone.
- This is the Amity Arena! - Jaune recognized him immediately.
- Where the Vytal festival was? - Oscar was interested.
- Where it all began. - Lance was plagued by bad memories.
- Yes. - Ironwood just stared at the hologram. - When Beacon fell and everyone on Remnant lost contact with each other, I knew our current system was out of date. Amity was built to bring nations together and that's what it will do again. - He pressed another button, causing a tower to appear on the hologram of the Amity arena.
- Isn't it great?! - Penny was absolutely enthusiastic about the plan. - We're not just restoring the Beacon tower, we're building a whole new one on top of the Amity arena, rebuilding global communications!
- With that, - Winter continued. - by sending the tower high into the atmosphere, our scientists believe we can create a kind of... satellite that the Grimms can't reach and can maintain global communications even if we lose another tower.
- This is great. – Ruby liked the idea, but something about this plan didn't let her rest and it was Qrow who asked the general the question that was also forming in his mind.
- James, you don't need the whole army for this. – After a long silence, the general spoke again.
- For the next part of the plan, I will need it. When I tell people all about Salem. - Then, after his sentence, a shocked silence took over the place, many people looked at each other and finally understood the true purpose of Ironwood.
- So, - Qrow was the one to say it. – that's why you called the army back, so you could handle the panic that would break out in Atlas.
- Yes. - The general nodded. - Panic is inevitable. Panic attracts the Grimm, but I feel we are ready. Once Atlas has dealt with this battle I will use the Amity tower to spread the message throughout Remnant.
- But everything will fall apart! - Weiss was worried. - There will be Grimms everywhere!
- That's right. – Winter confirmed her sister's concern. - But Atlas will be ready and willing to help the other kingdoms.
- If we hide the truth from the world, - The general continued. - kills us all over time. – He pressed another button, which turned off the hologram and the shutters in front of the windows rose and light flooded into the office again.
- Oz spent his whole life doing that, - Qrow remembered. – many lives to keep it a secret.
- I know. - The general lowered his head. - But things have changed since Beacon. - He started towards his desk. - But without him to guide us, all I can do is use my best judgment.
- Um… - Qrow scratched the back of his head, forgetting a detail that the general had forgotten.
- What is that? - Ironwood asked as Oscar stepped forward.
- Actually, Oz didn't disappear completely.
- Here's Oscar and… - Qrow stepped next to him, though he didn't know if he could tell the whole truth. – he'll be the next Ozpin.
- Oz?! – The general's eyes lit up and he approached the boy with great joy. - I'm so glad you're here! - He knelt in front of him. - I didn't think that... - He was about to shake her hand, but Oscar, feeling awkward, stopped him.
- Not quite! He's now... - Oscar didn't know how to describe what happened exactly. - currently... not... available.
- This… - Ironwood lowered his head in frustration. - not normal. Still, what… - He tried to figure out what could have happened to him, but before Oscar could say something that would reveal too much, Ruby quickly answered.
- We don't know. – They all looked at Ruby confused and curious, not understanding, as they knew exactly what happened to Ozpin, but for some reason he refused to reveal the whole truth. - There was a… train crash and… since then… well, Oz just disappeared.
- This is the worst news. - They all felt Ironwood's disappointment as he stood up. - Did you learn anything from him about the relics?
- He said, - Ruby immediately snapped at him confidently. – that the lamp answers three questions. - He looked furtively to the side. - But they're already asked. It can't be used again for 70 years.
- I see. - After a short silence, the general went to his desk with his hands clasped behind his back and stood in front of the window to look out into the air and down at Atlas. - Ozpin told us the same thing once. - He turned back decisively and looked at the boy. - At least you're here, Oscar. You are safe in Atlas. Maybe together we could even figure out how to bring Ozpin back.
- Thank you, sir… - Although Oscar was grateful for the general's support, he didn't really know how to look at him. - I mean... general... - As a superior to whom you have to pay your respects. - Ironwood? - Or as a friend he can trust.
- You want me, - Ruby took the lamp from her belt and handed it to the general. - to give it to you?
- After what you've been through, - But he didn't take her. – I don't want you to feel that I am hiding anything from you. Especially something as important as this. For now, I think it's safest to stay with the people who brought it here.
- Um... - Ruby was surprised by the general's kindness and put the lamp back on. - thank you.
- We must work together if we want to fight and win against Salem. - He looked over the team. - Are you with us?
Ruby looked to the side and felt that the general was indeed on their side, but there was still something about her that made her not feel like she could be completely honest with him.
- Just tell me how we can help. - But he was the best choice and Ruby knew he was the best choice they got.
- Good, - Ironwood's mouth lifted into a smile behind his beard and mustache. – because the Amity tower has to be prepared for the launch and it won't be easy. But first, - He inspected the team's weapons. – we need to fix and upgrade your weapons.
- For what, - Lance just pulled out his sword and swung it around. – we have pulled it off quite well with them so far.
- Don't forget, - Winter just smiled smugly. – this is Atlas. As long as you help the army, we will provide you with the best equipment our scientists create.
- Nice!
- Awesome!
- Amazing!
Everyone was happy to upgrade their existing equipment.
The team left Ironwood's office to go to another area of the academy, but at the end of the corridor, as they were walking down a flight of stairs, they heard a conversation.
- …and this was the third time I was rejected! - A man was heard complaining. - But the second, when—
- Okay, - Another man silenced him. - enough of the nonsense.
There was a group of soldiers in white and blue uniforms who were clearly Hunters.
- Welcome to the Atlas Academy, - The leader of the team, at least, it was believed that the one who stepped forward was a tall, well-built man, between 30-40, with short, brown gelled hair, wearing a white and blue military vest, a pair of mittens wearing gloves, white pants and black boots. – I'm glad we're working together. We are the Atlas Spec Ops and…
- I'm so glad that we are getting new recruits! - A large, muscular woman, 3 times Ruby's size, wearing a white and dark-blue uniform like the others, tan skin, medium dark brown hair tied in a ponytail, ran past him to grab her and shake her hand, but she was so strong and Ruby so small and light that it looked like she was shaking a rag doll. - I'm trying to make a good first impression, but I don't want to seem too pushy, - She spoke quickly and was excited as she released Ruby, who hit the ground in pain and stood up dizzy. – feel free to tell me if I cross a line! - She continued, still very fast and excited. - You like me, don't you? You don't hate me, do you?! Am I asking too much at once?!
- Everything is fine... - Ruby was still dizzy and seeing double. – just…warn me before…
- This, - Weiss just continued for her as she twirled Ruby around with two fingers. – already crossing a line. - She finally stopped her from spinning, but Ruby became even more dizzy.
- If you stay with us for a while, you'll get used to this sort of thing. - Another man, he had dark skin and long, black hair, one half of which was tied back in a bun and the other half was worn on the right side of his face. He also had a white and dark-blue uniform like the others. - It's not like I'm happy to have you with us. - He tried to be assertive as he crossed his arms, but the wagging of his white and gray dog's tail growing out of his lower back ruined his attempt and he was quickly caught it.
- We just wanted to welcome you, - Their leader took the floor. – and to say that we can't wait to work together on the next mission. You may be students, but at least you can fight as hard as we do. If not harder.
- That's exactly why I'm waiting to see you, - The fourth member of the team, a medium height, but the shortest of the team members, was a woman, dark skin, her brown hair was styled on both sides, the middle part was left short, except at the beginning, a few locks that grew longer and dyed light blonde. He glared defiantly at Ruby. - what do you kids know?
- Not everything has to be a race, Hare. – The last member of the team, he was a tall, lanky man with corpse-pale skin, short, slicked-back gray hair, three blue dot tattoos on his forehead, and his hands clasped together as if praying.
- Come on! – Penny was standing between the two teams and was excited to finally be able to spend time with her friends. - I'll show you the Academy!
The students followed the robot girl who was overjoyed to see her friends again.
The corridors of Atlas were high and long, everything looked expensive and modern, where it wasn't appropriate to riot.
- This is the dining room... - Penny led her friends around with unceasing enthusiasm, but the corridors were so long and the academy so big that they could barely keep up with the robot girl.
- ...this leads to the training room... - Her mouth didn't stop, she was constantly explaining where the things were and what they were for.
- ...here are the classrooms...
- That looks great, Penny. – Ruby, after several hours of walking, like her team, could barely stay awake, everyone was dead tired, Nora was already half asleep while leaning on Ren, and Mike was crawling on all fours after his friends. - But where are we going to sleep?
- Remember, you are in Atlas! - Penny couldn't help but praise the Academy. – The best funded school on Remnant, every student gets their own room at Atlas Academy! And if that wasn't enough…
- So, - Ren just stopped her. – do we get dorms?
- It will be like being in Beacon again! – Penny jumped excitedly, but Nora and Mike couldn't keep up the pace any longer and collapsed.
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