{Oscar/Ozpin's Perspective}

Well I- we? Whatever. We're at the bar that the voice in my head who claims they are Ozpin led me to.

I don't know how many times I have to tell you this. I am truly Ozpin.

NO. YOU ARE NOT. You're not real and I should be going to an asylum.

And yet here you are, by my direction.

SHUT. UP.

Now where was I? Oh yeah, I'm in a bar, point blank in front of a drunk man with slicked back hair. I'm told his name is Qrow? Ask for "My cane back." And now I have what was once my cane apparently?

And now we're going to some stranger's house all the while your supposed "best fighter" is drunk off his butt?

Unfortunately you're going to have to get used to that. He hasn't been the same since Summer's death.

I thought I told you to shut. Up.

…

So here I am about to knock on a door that could potentially have people that are armed to the fucking teeth.

Such foul language for a 14 year old.

You don't dictate my life!

Where'd you learn that language?

My parents before my aunt took me in. And even then, It's not the worst thing. Apparently that guy who swung over us was a VERMILLION, y'know, the family who are supposed to be all DEAD?

Well imagine my surprise when he announced that on the day of initiation!

Oh I'm sure you're surprised Mr. Voice-in-my-head.

Ugh… I don't know how else to convince you I am telling the truth other than what I showed you back home.

Well for starters, you're a voice in my head that can take over any moment I want, you claim to be Ozpin, one of the most famous people on Remnant, and now you want me to go on some grand quest to… I don't know, unite Remnant or something?

Quit whining and denying. It's getting old.I

Fine… But I still think I'm going crazy.

Whatever. Get back to the story

Right… I knocked on the door and was greeted by a 6 ft tall blonde haired man with armor to match and Pyrrha Nikos standing beside him. "H-Hello" I greeted "Is Ruby Rose here?"

Everyone in the room stood up as if ready to fight.

"Why?" asked the one with the pink skirt.

The only one who seemed to have no reaction was a raven haired man who's hair seemed to go down past his shoulders.

"W-well you see-" I was about to explain when Qrow came out of nowhere and slurred

"I found him!" Then laughed on his way to the couch. "I found him." He repeated once he flopped onto said couch.

"What is going on out there?!" Yelled a voice from the other room. "Can't a girl read her comics in peace?!"

Wow, she's really pretty.

Well I can't agree since I was once her headmaster, she does have the same charm as her mother. However, while I am here I ask that you refrain from attempting to date one of my previous students. It could get weird.

Oz stop it, I have more self control than that.

AH HA you finally called me by my name!

…

Anyway, She glared at Qrow and asked "Qrow, did you get drunk again?"

Qrow weakly waved "Maybe~" then giggled to himself.

She facepalmed "I'm not even going to ask how you found us." She then turned to me "Thanks for bringing him to us, we'll take it from here."

Now say "You have silver eyes."

Is that coming onto her? I thought you didn't want me to date her?

Nonsense, she'll know when she hears it. Just trust me.

… Eventually I won't "just trust you."

And yet you're still arguing with me. Go on, say the thing.

Fine, but not because you told me to.

"You have silver eyes." I repeated what "Ozpin" said.

Ruby raised an eyebrow at me "Who are you?" She asked cautiously.

"Well…" How do I explain this? Hey it's me, your thought-to-be-dead headmaster possessing a fourteen year old boy!

That would make me sound like a pedophile you know.

Oh like you could phrase it better?

Just… repeat after me:

"... My name is Oscar Pines." I introduced myself.

Qrow then mumbled "Wait for it…"

"But you may know me as… Professor Ozpin?"

Qrow giggled then yelled " I did it!" then flopped onto the floor in the most unflattering pose.

Oh and by the way, quit using quotes around my name.

How do you know that?!

I know you were thinking about quotes when you thought of my name earlier. It's dehumanizing.

That doesn't make any sense!

I assure you, it does.

You are mentally exhausting.

You think I chose this? You and I think alike, therefore we are connected now.

The more times you explain it like that the less sense it makes.

You are not the first one to say that.

Nor will I be the last apparently.

Apparently while I was arguing with "Ozpin" they were arguing about what I was. But I don't have the mental capacity to try to comprehend it.

Perhaps I can take control?

Sure. Knock yourself out. I need a nap.

{Aaron's perspective}

Looks like Oz took over Oscar. Which leads him to explain what happened to him. From his fall at Beacon to reincarnation into Oscar. There was one noteworthy thing he told us.

"I did run into your friend Achilles." He explained as he turned his attention towards me "I tried to convince him to follow me here. However he told me that he did not want to come here until he's done with something… something that could end up with him being killed."

Blake and Yang shot up in unison asking "What is he doing?"

Weiss rolled her eyes, mumbling "You two could be girlfriends."

I snickered a little.

Ozpin continued "He plans to assault the White Fang headquarters by himself. For what reason I am unsure, he would not elaborate."

Blake turned whiter than a ghost "By himself?" She asked in disbelief.

Ozpin nodded. "Yes, by himself."

Blake paced a couple steps as she asked "What could he hope to accomplish?" And almost immediately seemed to answer her own question. "By the Brothers…" She turned back to all of us "We need to go after him!"

Weiss put her hand forward, her palm facing Blake as she explained "Wait Blake, we don't even know where it is. Brothers only know how he found out."

Jaune pondered with his fist under his chin "Maybe he paid for that information? I mean, Blake did pick him up after his fight with Tyrian near the bad side of town."

Pyrrha seemed to agree with him "Of course, the Spiders have a network across Mistral. Not to mention they know every nook and cranny. They're bound to know that type of information."

"I know where it is," Blake interjected "I've been taken there whenever Adam was requested."

RWBY stood up as Yang rallied "Then we should head out then." Putting her fist in her palm.

I am rather worried for him. He hasn't returned in two days.

But then again he didn't tell ME, his best friend who he KNOWS can keep a secret.

… I need to talk to someone. I feel I'm being irrational right now.

{Weiss' perspective}

Aaron got up and walked away.

I have to say something to him. Who knows what's going on with him and his pettiness. "Where are you going?"

He turned his head towards me before he answered "To have a talk with Velvet. I'll be back."

And he walked away.

Oscar- or Ozpin… That's not confusing at all. Ozpin I suppose; anyway he turned to Aaron with curiosity "Is everything alright with Mr. Shadow?" he asked.

I turned to Ozpin and answered "He goes by Aaron now. And he hasn't been the same since he, and I, found out what Achilles has been hiding."

Ruby tilted her head to one side and asked "Achilles hid something from us?"

Which seemed to have set Yang off if ever so slightly.

Blake and team JNPR exchanged looks of inquiry. Jaune then asked "And that would be… ?"

I glanced around. Everyone has the same look. Confusion and inquiry.

Did I really never tell them? I feel as though it's better coming from the man himself. But at the same time, everything has been happening at a rapid pace. I haven't had a moment to tell them.

…

I suppose I have to tell them. "Achilles' fiance never turned coat. She has actually been a spy." I explained to them with both of my palms facing the ceiling.

A wave of different emotions flew around the room. Ozpin seemed to be the only one that had a lack of emotion. Or remained neutral. It's hard to tell.

"... So he lied to us?" Yang asked with her fists clenching. "That's what Aaron's so upset about? Well I guess I know how he feels."

I held my hands up to her "Yang there will be plenty of time for that later. Achilles needs our help."

Blake nodded with my words "Weiss is right. There will be plenty of time to ask him later."

Yang groaned "Fine, but if anything I'll be the first to ask him anything."

Ruby nodded and ordered "Grab your weapons guys, we've got a friend to save."

She's adorable sometimes.

A few minutes later, we were geared up and about to head out when Aaron said "Wait up, lemme join."

Which surprised a few of us.

"I've got a plan, but we're gonna need a car."

Qrow scratched his head "Got anything in particular in mind?"

Aaron nodded "But we shouldn't all go out. JNPR I need you all to hold down the fort. Just in case things go wrong."

Pyrrha was about to object before Jaune held his arm out "It's a good strategy, we shouldn't all go out in case they capture you."

Aaron nodded "I knew there was a brain in that noggin of yours."

Jaune raised an eyebrow "Was that a compliment?"

Aaron shrugged.

"Well it's a strategy I learned in Gauntlets and Grimm" Jaune explained

Yang snorted "Nerd."

Jaune chuckled a little as he rubbed the back of his head, "I mean, I played it once."

I couldn't tell Pyrrha's expression, she seemed to stare intently at Jaune.

Aaron seemed to notice and chuckled to himself and mumbled something along the lines of "Moronsexual" Whatever that means.

{Jocelyn/Rose's perspective}

Everything is going about as well as I expected. Raven and Cinder were exchanging words that I was barely paying attention to. Raven used her maiden powers to make it look like Vernal was the maiden, though I dare not tell Cinder that.

Though one thing was slightly different, Raven acknowledged me.

"I must say, that bit of theater during the VYTAL festival was quite something." She complimented "Lovers turned enemies." She noted. "Almost as if it were a play."

I shook my head "It was no mere play I assure you. He was starting to piss me off anyway. Always with the "greater good" nonsense."

Raven crossed her arms at me "Then why is he still alive? Why didn't you strike his vitals?"

"Jaune's semblance must have repaired the damage I caused." I mused. Though I know the actual reason was I didn't land a hit on anything vital. If anything I only gave him a slight wound.

Raven didn't seem to buy it. "Why side with Salem? Surely you know her goals?"

Justin did give me some notes last night before he disappeared again. Something about "Possible responses to any questions Raven might ask."

I don't know how he thought of this but I suppose he has a lot of time between whatever he's doing and talking to me that his ADHD mind just came up with.

So I responded, "That is none of your concern. Why would you care what my goals are?"

Cinder cut in "Her goals might be hidden to even us, but she has proven she's dedicated to our cause. Which is more than I can say for your loyalties with Ozpin."

She placed her hands on her weapon, ready to draw "I'm not helping Salem, and I'm not helping Ozpin. I don't want any part of this!"

"That ship sailed when you chose to hide a maiden." I told Raven.

Cinder glanced at me with a small glare before returning back to Raven "As Rose here pointed out, though she didn't need to, if you claim to know Salem as well as you claim to, you know you won't be able to hide from her for long." She took a few steps forward as she continued "However, we come extending an olive branch."

Watts then chimed in. "We need the Spring Maiden to unlock the vault, and Vernal here will help us. We just need the relic. If you help us, all past transgressions against Salem will be forgiven. After that you may disappear again. Never to be bothered."

Raven stayed silent for a moment. Then replied "I need time to think this over-"

"You don't have time." Watts interrupted, "Tomorrow the White Fang will destroy Haven Academy and with that our chance at the relic."

Cinder gleamed "So are you with us, or against us?"

Raven removed her helmet as she told us "These types of deals are built on trust, and I don't trust any of you."

"Forgive me but you are in a poor position to negotiate." I told Raven.

Raven replied "I want my brother dead. Much like you want your fiance dead, Rose."

It took the group by surprise. Especially me, I did not expect her to include me in that sentence since everything is going basically according to cannon still.

"That's right, he and his enforcer know I have Spring. And if I help you get to your relic, they're going to be a problem."

Cinder quirked an eyebrow "Ozpin has an enforcer?"

Raven nodded "A man, dressed in crimson with a blade to boot with some sort of heavenly glow. His face was hidden to me. So I don't know what he looks like, nor do I know what his motivations are for helping Ozpin." She rested her left hand on the grip of her blade "For all I know is that they're all heading to Haven Academy. And more than likely going to try to stop you. Get Lionheart to invite Qrow for an ambush, we take him and his enforcer down and we walk away with the relic."

Cinder pondered to herself for a moment then turned to Watts "That's a deal I can get behind."

Watts cut between her and Cinder while he told them "Alright ladies let's pause for a moment" He then reminded Cinder "We have ONE objective. Retrieving the Relic of Knowledge. And as much as Qrow and this mysterious Crimson Enforcer are definitely on our list of individuals we would like eliminated, they won't go down without a fight. Our advantage is as you said. We walk into Haven, grab the relic, no one the wiser. A battle with your brother and him throws that out the window."

Raven smirked "They're good for sure, but they can't be that good. It'll be over in a heartbeat."

"But it won't be just him. He has the students with him as well." I chimed in "Not to mention the two that have the same gift as me. It won't end well for us Cinder."

Cinder again smirked, "If it means we can eliminate all potential threats to Salem's goals and grab the relic, so be it."

Watts then pointed out "If we leave that school a bloody mess, it'll draw the attention of the authorities, and the White Fang's plan-"

Suddenly Watts' scroll started ringing.

Watts reached for it while mumbling "Thought I put this on silent."

It was a call from Hazel. Watts

"Hazel, what in bloody hell are you doing? I thought you were with the White Fang?"

Was

Watts' seemed confused. "Then what happened?"

One of the students came in and is helping Senna against the coup Hazel reported.

Watts spluttered "Well then DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT! You said it's just one so DEAL WITH HIM YOU OAF."

Hazel grunted then hung up.

Justin I pray that you're not being reckless like usual.

{Justin/Achilles' perspective}

Glad I found a place to sneak in undetected. As much as my friends think otherwise I can be sneaky when I want to be. Hell, my footsteps barely make any noise unless I wear something heavy. In this instance I just made my footsteps carefully.

So I used my climbing abilities and hid myself in the beams above the throne room while it was suspiciously empty. I didn't think Senna would take any breaks from sitting on a throne but hey what do I know aside from the basics that were told via RT so… There goes my ADHD thinking again. Sheesh.

Looks like I got here a few hours early as Senna just entered the room talking to her subordinates and guards about things I can barely hear. Something about Adam and his punishment from the few words I've heard. Seriously, why are they talking so quietly? This place has thick walls, not like there's a spy other than me in these walls.

…

Oh that's probably why they're talking quietly.

…

Aaron would call me a dumbass.

…

Many hours later when I was almost bored out of my mind, Adam finally showed himself.

And now Senna starts talking louder. "Adam, you are late."

Adam took a knee "Apologies High Leader Kahn. I have no excuses."

Yeah right Starscream… actually no, at least Starscream had tactics. He's just power hungry.

"Why have you summoned me here?" She asked, "It better be important."

"It is." He replied "I wish to attack Haven Academy with the White Fang."

Sienna seemed shocked by this revelation "Are you dense Adam?"

Time to prepare my grapple hook just in case.

"High leader if we attack Haven it'll send a message-" Adam tried to explain.

"Do I need to repeat myself?" She rhetorically asked "The attack you led on Beacon was not the great victory you thought it would be. Because now more than ever our brothers and sisters to the cause are being hunted for the damages caused by you." She relaxed, "You should be begging for forgiveness and nothing else."

Adam seemed calm but I know the seething rage within him. I myself fell into that pit not too long ago. It's a dark place to be.

"You are a symbol to many in our organization." She continued. "But that does not make you infallible."

I checked the tightness of my line to ensure I would not miss.

"I was merely following your example, High Leader." Adam replied.

Sienna shifted forward "And what would that be?"

Adam raised his head to meet her gaze, "Strength and conviction."

He then stood up "The humans have now seen that. And they fear us because of it."

"You missed the point." Sienna barked "The huntsman academies-"

"Are a means to an end." Adam interrupted "They may claim they are for both faunus and humans, but that doesn't excuse the fact that faunus still get discriminated against when they're there. Either by their professors or the students."

I mean… that is a valid point. It was the same back on Earth. It led to a lot of young blood being spilled without ever going to war.

"Not to mention once they do become huntsmen, they aren't rewarded nearly as much as the humans." He continued with a hand out to the side.

Sienna slammed her fist into the armrest "Don't you get it? Even if the CCT didn't go down it still remains that the White Fang is more of a target than ever before. And for what? Humans that we still know nothing about? Your shortsightedness will be the end of the White Fang."

Adam stayed silent for a moment before replying "If you want to know more about the humans, why not ask them yourself?"

He then turned around and called out to Hazel.

And this is the part I was preparing for.

Hazel swung open the doors. He then told Adam "Took you long enough."

Sienna looked offended by this "What is the meaning of this Adam? You brought a human into our sanctuary?!"

Hazel joined Adam's side. He then told Sienna. "My apologies, I don't mean to cause trouble."

She turned to Adam "This is grounds for execution!"

"Ma'am, please." Hazel knelt down onto one knee as I prepared for my attack. "I just ask for a moment of your time.

She addressed Hazel "The longer you stay here, the less of a chance you get to walk out of here alive!" She threatened.

Hazel brought his head back up as he replied "I'll take those chances, if you don't mind."

She sat back down as her guards were at ease.

The brief conversation between her and Hazel was rather intense, Hazel claiming he can get what the White Fang wants and Sienna not backing down from her ideals.

Which I can definitely say is a reason I want her alive. If I can show her some humans are actually on her side, she'll probably be more willing to find peaceful solutions. Unlike my home country which would respond with an aircraft carrier being parked right outside the beach of a country where the terrorism takes place.

And I just realized I went on another ADHD tangent. Shit.

Glancing back down I saw Adam taking steps towards a very alert Sienna

"-They should serve the faunus." Said Adam with both of his fists together with excitement like a child who is begging for a toy.

"... I've had enough of this conversation. Guards, take them away." Sienna ordered.

The guards didn't move.

Time to make my entrance. "You know, Hazel isn't the only human here." I gloated.

Sienna glanced around "Who said that?!" She yelled.

I swung in with both of my feet out as I landed them on Adam's side, sending him flying to a nearby wall as the rest of the White Fang traitors came in.

Let's see… How many are there?

…

16v2? Bring it on.

Hazel cocked his head at me "And just how long were you hiding up there?" he asked.

I shrugged "Long enough to wait for the perfect time to tell Sienna this:" I then turned to her "High Leader Kahn, I know you don't look too fondly at me, but right now, if you want out of this alive I suggest you and I make a temporary truce." I extended my hand towards her "Adam has been planning your demise for a while. He believes he is a more capable leader than you. Which, if I may be so bold, is a terrible comedy."

Adam got back up in dazed confusion as he shot his head up at me "You…" he growled.

I gave him a smirk. "Me." I replied with a thumb pointed at myself.

He stood up with his left hand on his sheath "What are you doing here? How did you find this place?"

I raised my left hand up with the palm facing the ceiling as I explained "You can thank the Spiders, they have their web in a lot of places. Including the White Fang apparently." I then lowered my hand with a smirk. "After all, no price is too high for information."

Sienna chuckled "So that was your game? You come in here, hide in my throne room, then come in and expect me to scratch your back after this?" She asked.

I turned my head slightly while still keeping my eyes on Adam "Well… no, I don't expect any favors in return. All I want is to see you live to see the next sunrise. Well that and you're far more capable as a leader than Adam here would be."

Adam laughed "And what makes you think this'll be any different than Beacon?"

I hid my right arm behind my back to make sure Adam didn't see it shake. "Trust me Adam, this will be NOTHING like Beacon. I'll make sure of it."

He laughed at me then charged, unsheathing his blade in the process.

As soon as it left the sheath I punched it away with my robotic hand and drew my own blade and Kronos, leveling Kronos at one of the White Fang members with a spear and pulled the trigger before my opponent could respond while I had my blade locked with Adam.

Sienna seemed shocked at first, but dismissed it after picking up the spear and using it against the other three.

Adam swung at me on my left. I blocked it with my robotic arm and kicked him in the abdomen to gain some distance to fire off another round at an advancing White Fang traitor.

That's now 13 rounds remaining in my gun.

Adam did another swipe at me, this time on my right.

I backflipped away from his attack and fired a third shot at one advancing on Sienna's rear with a knife.

12 rounds.

Sienna threw the spear across the room to the White Fang traitors that were still advancing towards me from across the room in favor of the knife that was dropped.

Adam made a flurry of attacks that I narrowly blocked. He then made a swipe at my legs.

I jumped over the attack and tried to kick him in the same move.

He grabbed my leg and threw me down the steps.

I heard shots behind me and glanced up at Sienna, who was hiding behind the throne.

I holstered Kronos to pull Rhea out and yelled "Sienna! Use this!" And tossed it to her "I will need it back though!" I clarified.

Adam and I clashed, the back of my blade against his. He chuckled, "You assume that you're going to live through this."

I smirked, "Yeah, because my dick's bigger than yours."

Adam chuckled. "You seem to have the body of an adult, yet the mind of a child."

I shrugged, "Do us both a favor and get a sense of humor."

He grabbed the sheath of his blade and transformed it into shotgun mode. He then tried to fire a round at Sienna only to be met with my pommel to his face. "Pay attention to your opponent Adam!" I snarked.

I heard Sienna fire off Rhea three times, that means she has 12 rounds left in her.

I then heard Adam charge up his semblance: Moon Slice. The area around him seemed to have darkened to a point only the red parts of his outfit and hair remained visible. He then unleashed it in a wide arc forward.

If I dodge it, it'll hit Sienna and the White Fang behind me.

If I try to block it it'll damage my arm. But I have no time to think of a third option so I stabbed the ground next to me as I braced my arm for the attack.

The attack connected and I skidded until I hit the first step of the throne. I gritted my teeth and swatted the attack away. I'm honestly surprised it worked. I then ran for my blade.

Hazel came out of nowhere and punched me in the side of my stomach and sent me flying onto an opposite pillar. I got back up on one knee as I saw Adam charging at Sienna.

I quickly drew Kronos and fired off a 3 round burst at Adam. Though the kickback was ridiculously hard to control. That's probably why there's not a whole lot of three round pistols. Especially chambered in .50 action express.

Adam saw my attempt and deflected the three bullets that were intended for him.

He glanced at Hazel "Do you have him?" He asked.

Hazel grunted, "No one has to die today."

Adam gave an evil smile "I… disagree."

Suddenly I heard a muffled song from outside the door. It sounds like-

{Immigrant Song -Led Zeppelin}

A black car that looked a lot like a 1969 Dodge Charger came bursting into room, which knocked down all of the traitorous White Fang members in the process, Weiss, Blake, and Qrow riding on the roof with Weiss' gravity glyph. With the rubble of the doorframe crumbling behind them.

Weiss jumped clear and landed right next to me, using another gravity glyph to push Hazel away.

I couldn't help but chuckle "Took y'all long enough!" I yelled.

Weiss locked eyes with me "This was Aaron's idea. As well as this."

In a flash Aaon was right next to Sienna as he teleported to each of the ex guards and tapped them out in one punch each then appearing at my side and helped me up.

Hazel went in for a punch which Aaron dodged and landed a hit on his side. Then one at his face.

Hazel stumbled back, but quickly regained his composure.

Since Hazel's semblance nullifies pain, that combo won't do much against him.

Adam sliced in a 45 degree angle from Aaron's lower half. Aaron saw it coming and Matrix dodged the attack, barely missing him. He then did a kick flip off of Adam's torso and grabbed my sword, throwing it towards me.

I caught it with my robot hand on the blade and handed it off to my right as I smirked at Adam "Face it Adam. You've lost." I proclaimed as I pointed Porfyros Drakos at him.

Adam growled and glanced at Sienna, who Blake was right next to, giving Sienna her iconic weapon. A chain whip as demonstrated in Adam's character short. Blake and Sienna both glared at Adam.

Adam recklessly charged at her only to be met with Yang's fist to his face, once again shattering half of his mask.

He glanced up and around. He was surrounded. And he knew this.

He turned to Hazel "Hazel! Assist me! I can get you what you want!"

Hazel shook his head "This is your mess. She doesn't need someone as reckless and shortsighted as you."

I gave him a quick pleading glance.

He noticed but ignored me, leaving Adam in our care.

Sienna turned to face Blake "It's good to see you Blake."

Blake smiled "You as well Sienna."

"High leader Kahn" Sienna corrected.

I leveled my blade at the back of Adam's neck when he tried to get up.

Sienna locked eyes with Adam "Though we'll have to catch up later." She then approached Adam, handing me Rhea back with two fingers on the grip in a theatrical disdain.

I handed my blade off to my left so I could holster Rhea. I then returned my blade to my dominant hand

She glared at Adam "You have betrayed the White Fang. I hereby strip you of your titles and subject you to execution."

The guards that were still loyal to Sienna came in, albeit WAY too late, and saw all of us and leveled their weapons at us.

Sienna signaled them to lower their weapons "Take this traitor into the cells and disarm him. We will have an execution in 3 days."

The guards took Adam away. Once he was out of sight Sienna turned her attention to me "Though I still have trouble figuring out how on Remnant you managed to sneak in here undetected. There's thousands of White Fang members here, most of whom have sensitive hearing."

I slowly sheathed Porfyros Drakos as I faced her. "As do I, a gift from my bio-dad. And about the only thing he gave me."

Yang and Ruby exchanged looks at each other. I must have not told them about that. Well not like it's ever come up in conversation.

Sienna quirked an eyebrow but dismissed her question "I see. And what made you want to help me in the first place? Surely you don't agree with my methods."

I nodded "You are right, I don't agree with violence to achieve equality, especially when it's senseless. But at the same time, you don't deserve to die, let alone by the hands of a traitor like Adam. I will admit, I became involved when I spied on him during his rallying speech a little bit ago in an abandoned warehouse on the other end of the kingdom. But my point remains, I don't think you deserved that."

She kept an eyebrow raised as she shifted her weight to her other foot with one hand on her hip. "That still doesn't answer my question human. Why save me?"

"Okay, one: My name is Achilles Vermillion. Second: I figured by being on your side, you'd see a different side to humanity than what you're used to." I explained with my robotic palm facing the ceiling.

Sienna paused for a moment, seeming to choose her words carefully. "Well, if it weren't for your interruption, I wouldn't be here right now." She then crossed her arms "With that said, you are still trespassing on White Fang territory, and I suggest you all leave. Now."

I gave her a bow "Of course High Leader Kahn. Just one last thing."

She tilted her head to the side inquisitively.

I continued my plea "Please think about the innocents. If you must continue to shed blood of both faunus and humans alike, so be it. Just don't target those who see you as equal and wish for your people to experience the same freedoms that we do."

She again hesitated for a moment before she answered "I'll consider it. Now away with all of you. I will tell them to stand down and let you though."

Blake smiled, "Thank you Sienna."

Sienna softened her expression to Blake before returning her gaze at me.

I glanced at the scratched and damaged car that someone drove in here. I don't know if it was Qrow or whoever.

"No you may not have that back." Sienna barked as if she read my mind.

I shrugged, "Worth a shot."

We walked out of the White Fang Headquarters. On the hike back to the house that I purchased with Jacques' money. There were a few conversations.

Weiss was yelling at me almost the entire time "You are such an idiot!" She yelled "If we were just a few minutes too late you could have died!"

I shrugged "Yeah but you weren't. And I'm thankful you all came to my rescue, my heroes." I said with my hands over my chest in the form of a heart.

Weiss rolled her eyes.

Aaron then joined my side. "When we get back, we need a chat." He growled.

I raised an eyebrow "Oh so NOW I'm allowed back?" I scoffed.

"Will you two shut up." Qrow ordered. "We'll have plenty of time to tear each other apart when we get back."

I raised my hands up in surrender. "Alright Mr. Branwen. I won't get into it now."

Yang growled under her breath.

Have I done something to upset them?

I turned to Weiss who gave me a solemn look of apology.

She must have told them that Joce wasn't a traitor.

That was for ME to tell them.

…

Whatever.

I gave a sigh "If this is about what I think it is, I couldn't think of a good time to tell everyone. Not like it ever came up in conversation."

Aaron glared at me "Like I said, we'll talk later." He growled.

I better change the subject "So… what happened to JNPR? I figured they'd come with you guys."

"Aaron told them to stay behind in case something happens." Ruby answered.

I gave a nod "Very well. Better to not pull out all of our cards right."

We stopped for food before we got back to the house.

Once we were through the door Jaune spotted me and sighed in relief "It's good to see you made it out."

I glanced around and noticed Pyrrha was missing. "Where's Pyrrha?"

He then walked up to me and used his semblance on my aura "She's out looking for your fiance. Let's just make sure there's no injuries."

I swatted his hand away "I'm only lightly bruised, nothing more. Save your semblance for someone who needs it."

Jaune explained "I mean after your fight with Tyrian. And the fact you were on the street for the past 4 days."

I shrugged and walked past him "I'm fine. I made sure to avoid all the bad parts."

"You mean aside from the Spiders?" Weiss asked. "And well, Tyian Callows."

I quickly turned around to meet her eyes "Could you please not bring that up. I fucked up, I'm sorry. Leave it at that."

Jaune, Ren and Nora glanced at each other and decided silently to leave us to sort ourselves out. So they silently walked upstairs.

Qrow meanwhile got in between us and ordered "Let's not raise our voices, maybe we can come to some consensus-"

Yang cut Qrow off and yelled "Maybe if you had told us your plans none of us would be this upset at you!" Her eyes turned crimson as she took a step forward.

"Fucking Christ, you people…" I mumbled under my breath as I rubbed my temples "If I had told you, y'all would be in as much danger as I. If this is about me not telling y'all that Joce- Rose never actually betrayed us, I'm sorry. I needed genuine reactions-"

"BULLSHIT." Aaron asserted "You could have told us after all was said and done. That way, you get your "genuine reactions" and we won't sit through months of moping and comforting you. You led us to believe you were heartbroken when that was a fucking LIE."

I touched the tips of my fingers together while he berated me. "Well I apologize, it must have slipped my mind sometime between GETTING MY FUCKING ARM CUT OFF." I argued, gesturing to my robotic hand to remind them about what had happened. "And getting drugged into accidentally sleeping with a billionaire's daughter!" I then yelled, gesturing to Weiss.

Everyone grew silent. Their eyes as wide as moons staring directly at me. Even Qrow was shocked.

… Crap… I didn't want that to slip out.

Aaron was the first to speak up "Look, I can understand… all of that would lead you to forget. But it still doesn't change the fact you never told us. But it's fine, after talking to Velvet I'm deciding to give you a second chance-"

I scoffed, "Oh thank you, your highness." I retorted with a sarcastically noble-like bow "How gracious of you to let me back into the place I bought."

Ruby ran between us "OKAY!" she yelled "Clearly we're all pretty upset. It's been a long day, why don't we all rest and talk about this in the morning when we're all calmed down and able to think clearer. Okay?"

I glanced at Ruby for a moment before I returned my glare back at the group "I agree. We all need to calm down before we start literally tearing each other apart."

I marched out of there and into the training room below. I need to gaze up at the stars. I'm always calmest when looking into the great unknown.

Once I was outside I stared up at the sky. Slowly walking to the fenceline just beyond and leaned against it.

During my time on Remnant, I learned about some constellations. Most of them are based off of Grimm. So where on earth we would have Draco in the southern hemisphere, here on Remnant it would be the Sea Feilong I believe. They seem almost similar in shape too. The Nuckleavee is shaped similar to Pegasus. Though there's a few that are still unnamed for me. There is one that I've noticed has a similar shape as Orion, however stars change drastically between two galaxies as I've explained before.

So if there's any similarities they are merely coincidental or we're in the same galaxy as the Milky Way.

…

But that's impossible since one of the Voyager spacecrafts landed here near Atlas. Whether it's voyager 1 or 2 is up for debate.

…

Ugh I wish it were easier to place myself in relativity to Earth so I know where in the universe I'm in. This shit's giving me a headache.

"Achilles?" I heard a small voice call out.

I turned around to see my team leader Ruby with her hands cupped "Am I interrupting something?"

I shook my head "No Ruby, you're not. I was just… lost in the stars."

She joined me at my side and did a little hop onto one of the beams that connected the fences together, she sat herself on the top rail. "The stars?" She asked.

I glanced back up at the sky with a small smile slipping out "I can't quite explain it."

She turned herself towards me as if trying to find some sort of understanding. "Can you try?"

I gave myself a moment to try to put it in words she'll understand. "... It's like… I like to think in this vast universe there's others out there that are looking up at their sky and wondering the same as I am. If there's someone else out there in the infinite void of the cosmos."

She nodded, understanding so far.

"And with all of the clusters of galaxies, the stars in each, and the planets that could be orbiting those stars in their habitable zone. There has to be a chance for other civilisations to flourish. Or if it's just purely coincidental that the same building blocks that created the planets, also created life."

"You lost me," Ruby said with a small chuckle.

I turned to meet her silver eyes "Sorry, force of habit." I then returned my gaze back up at the stars "All I'm saying is that there has to be life out there. It's just going to take a long time for us to notice."

"... Right…" Ruby cautiously said "Well I just wanted to check on you. You and Aaron seem to be having problems. And well… what you said about you and Weiss."

I groaned "I didn't want to say any of that. It just slipped out of my mouth."

I could tell she was glancing at me apologetically "So… are you ok?"

I sighed "No Ruby, I'm not. I haven't been "okay" for the past four years of my life. Especially not after what happened to me."

"Oh…" Ruby acknowledged "Do you want to talk about it?"

I shook my head "You're my friend, not my therapist. You don't deserve me trauma dumping on you."

"I mean the… being drugged part." Ruby corrected.

"Oh that."

She nodded.

I don't know how to describe it to her "Well… I was just eating one of their upper class meals when I started to feel hot and heavy. So I excused myself. Apparently so did Weiss and the next thing I knew my actions were not my own…"

Ruby raised an eyebrow "So… you and Weiss-"

"Yes Ruby." I answered abruptly "We did it. I could remember all of it." I buried my hands in my head "And I wish I could forget."

She put a comforting hand on my shoulder "Well I won't pretend to know how that feels. I know that you're a good man. And you wouldn't do things against anyone's will."

I couldn't help but chuckle "Glad to know the news hasn't brainwashed you."

"Pfft, who watches that anyway aside from people who want to gossip?"

"I thought I'd find you here." Said a familiar voice behind me and Ruby.

I turned to meet the voice of Blake Belladonna walking up to us with a small smile across her face.

Ruby returned a grin at Blake "Blake! You're here! Please help Achilles, I don't know how."

She then sped off using her semblance. With one of the petals landing in my mouth. Oddly enough it didn't taste like anything. And when I tried to spit it out nothing came out. I guess the petals are just purely spectacle and nothing more. Same could be said about Keoth's blue flames. Or maybe that's what drains his aura so damn quickly.

When I returned to Blake's eyes she had a somber look "We need to talk."

And now I wish I had a speed semblance.

She joined me in the same spot Ruby was, never losing eye contact with me. She crossed her arms at me "Why?" She asked.

I raised an eyebrow with a slight turn away "Why what?"

She glared "Why would you go into the White Fang headquarters without us? You could have died if it weren't for us and Sienna."

I shrugged "Well I'm glad y'all arrived when y'all did."

"This is serious!" She yelled.

I put my hands out in front of me with my palms pointed at the floor to try to get her to calm down. "Look, I spied on Adam planning on overthrowing Sienna and destroying the CCT of Haven. I just wanted to prevent the White Fang from devolving into just bloodthirsty terrorists."

"But it's not your fight." She pleaded, "You didn't have to do any of that by yourself."

I shrugged at her "Someone had to Blake. I didn't have a lot of time to get you guys. I trusted Oz to fill you in and come to my aid."

"And what if he didn't?" Blake asked with tears welling in her eyes.

I glanced back up at the shattered moon "We can sit here and discuss the 'what if' all night. The fact of the matter is none of those worst case scenarios played out." I then returned my eyes to her amber eyes "I appreciate that you want to protect me. But I'm not made of glass Blake. I can handle myself." I then placed my robot hand on her shoulder.

She looked away for a moment, gathering her words before returning to my eyes. "Just… promise me something."

I raised an eyebrow at her. "You want me to promise you?"

She gave me a glare "Humor me."

I shrugged.

She softly sighed before she pleaded "Promise me you won't take your blade up for vengeance, or revenge." Her amber eyes danced in the moonlight. They are… rather vexing.

I glanced up at the moon briefly "Blake… I'm not in the habit of making promises I can't keep."

I glanced back at her and she had the most adorable look on her face. One that reminded me of Sai whenever he wanted food.

… That is cheating…

Eventually I gave her a slow nod with my eyes closed "Fine. I promise I won't use my blade for vengeance or revenge."

She didn't seem convinced by my words. However she seemed to let it go with an "Alright."

"Hey you two. Dinner's ready! Jaune cooked something for us with Ren" Yang yelled from the frame of the training room.

I glanced back at Blake "I'll join in a minute."

She gave me a look of concern. Then she walked inside while Yang and I stared at each other. Yang with her arms crossed at me.

As soon as Blake was out of sight I said "Before we start. I want to say I'm sorry for not telling you all about what I was planning. I didn't know how to tell you guys without compromising our objectives."

As I explained, Yang closed the gap between us. As soon as we were close enough she punched me directly across the face, making my glasses go flying off my face.

I held my jaw as I stumbled off to the side. "Okay… I deserved that." I admitted as I searched for my glasses. Though in the dark it would be more difficult.

"You could have told us sooner." She said softly.

I nodded "I know. But at the same time there's not a whole lot of ways to tell you guys when I'm trying to stop a disaster from unfolding."

I saw the silhouette of Yang picking something off the ground and gently blowing on it. "You need to start telling us what these things are. I don't like being held in the dark about things."

I nodded "I know. I should have known that. And I'm sorry."

She handed me my glasses which I quickly put on. Yang's warm smile aimed at me.

"... Does that mean you forgive me?" I asked.

She gave me a light punch in the shoulder "Come on A-train. Dinner's ready."

I nodded "Alright, but can you not call me A-train. It fills my head with bad memories."

She raised an inquisitive eyebrow. "How so?"

I waved my hand side to side as I explained "Obscure TV show you wouldn't know."

She gave a confused nod.

Before we went up Yang stopped me "Hey so… about you and Weiss."

Can I stop being a parrot? "Yes, we did it under the influence of some drug."

She nodded "That would explain why Jacques is calling for your head."

I rolled my eyes. "He would do that, pretentious bastard."

Yang gave a small laugh "I'm sorry, it's not your situation I find funny."

I dismissively waved "I know, I'm just naturally hilarious."

During this discussion we walked up to the dining room with our meal prepped. My mouth almost drooled.

Throughout dinner I couldn't help but think of the different things that could happen. Qrow had informed us that Leo had invited us into Haven in a couple of days which can only mean the attack is still happening.

… Is that like a fixed point in time? Or could there be more I can do? Can I stop the ambush from happening? Can we stop the relic from being taken?

Jaune then asked me "Hey man you good over there?"

I jerked my head up at him to be met with everyone's eyes on me.

"Um… yeah just thinking." I replied.

"Is this the first time for you? I hear it can be painful." Aaron joked.

I gave him a playful glare while the group stifled their laughter. Some were better than others. I continued, "Just worried about tomorrow."

"Well worry no longer. Lionheart agreed to meet us at Haven." Qrow announced with Pyrrha rounding the corner behind him.

"He has?" I asked.

Qrow nodded to confirm "It'll be later on in the night though."

I glanced back at the group "I don't like this."

Pyrrha tilted her head at me once she sat down "How so Achilles?"

I shrugged "Feels like we're walking into an ambush."

"A good assumption." Ozpin said as he walked into the dining room "We must be prepared. Meanwhile, why not relax, and unwind. We'll need it just in case."

I glanced at Aaron who seemed to have the same thought as me. That this could be our chance to get the Bees together.

Ozpin then addressed me "And as of you Mr. Vermilion, you will need to stay discreet. I know you've been through a lot, especially after what happened to you and Ms. Schnee here."

I glanced over at Weiss to check on her. She kept her head down. Probably to hide the embarrassment.

"Though I can assure you, we will clear your name. Qrow and I will head down to the court to plead our case."

Aaron then cut in "I just wanted to say something real quick to my friend."

I gave Aaron my full attention.

"As I said before, I am giving you a second chance. However, we're going to play a game."

I raised an eyebrow at him. "What game?"

He gave a mischievous smile "Oh you'll find out…"

And now he's made me nervous.

Qrow then cleared his throat "Well I think that settles it. Enjoy your night everyone, I'm going to rest my eyes."

Ozpin nodded "And I'm sure Oscar needs his rest."

Oz then seemingly gave control back to Oscar who seemed somewhat angry "I'm not tired yet old man!"

He then noticed he yelled that and tried to cover it up "Sorry… Ozpin and I… He's trying to act like a dad."

Ruby started laughing.

I could tell by Oscar's eyes he's fallen for her. But immediately clutched his head. "You know what, maybe I should lay down."

After that, our meals were finished and I helped clean the dishes.

Weiss came up to me with an eyebrow raised "You're doing the dishes?"

I shrugged "Like I told you before; I was raised in a household with a mother who had Obsessive Cleanliness. Besides, I was raised to clean my dishes when I use them."

She nodded understandingly "Mind if I help then?"

I snorted "You? Doing manual labor?"

She rolled her eyes at me "Just tell me what to do."

"Well first off, roll your sleeves up. You don't want them to get wet and dirty." I ordered.

With Weiss' help, the dishes were done pretty quick. Afterwards we walked upstairs. She leaned against the wall next to my door "So, you finally admit you haven't forgotten it."

I nodded slowly "Unfortunately I can't forget the first time I lost control of my own body."

She shook her head "I wouldn't say that Achilles. We were both under the influence of the Lovecraft tulip."

I raised an eyebrow at her "the what tulip?"

She placed a hand on her hip "I'm surprised you didn't know. Given how much you keep your nose in your books and laptop." She then pulled her scroll out and showed me an article.

With one line in particular standing out to me: This flower has a toxin that makes the consumer intoxicated with arousal, it has been stated that some use this in others drinks. To do this, the perpetrator would have to finely grind the stem until it is a powder. It's nye undetectable in foods. With drinks it will make the liquid in question more translucent.

I glanced up at Weiss with an eyebrow raised "So you think this is what caused our…"

She gave a nod, not wanting me to go further "It's also a very temperamental plant. Only able to grow in places like Vale or Mistral. Any colder or hotter and it will not survive."

So what she's saying is… "That means the person in question would have to have it specially shipped, presumingly in a box with the exact climate it's used to."

Weiss confirmed my words with a nod.

"Someone with a lot of money and access to the dust necessary to do so."

She gave another nod.

My heart sank again "By the brothers… that puts Jacques back on my suspect list. Well as if he wasn't already."

Weiss shook her head "I know he wanted a child of both of our bloodlines. But that's too far even for him."

I shrugged "Well, I wouldn't put it past him. Billionaires tend to leave their morals behind when they want something. I'm pretty sure some 4 of them and one of their sons would descend into the oceans of Remnant in a shoddily built submersible if given the chance."

"... That was very oddly specific." Weiss noted.

I shrugged "With that thought, I need to head to bed. Sweet dreams Weiss." I said as I patted her head while I walked by.