Forgive me I beg of you! I'm very sorry for the late update IRL stuff happened and got in the way of writing.
But I'm here now so without further ado let's get on with the chapter because we have!
Chapter 9 things to do
After a short while at the Xiao Long household, Phantom 10, Kevin, Max, and Tai stood gathered around the Rust Bucket, ready to head to the base.
The air was crisp with the scent of pine from the nearby trees, and the quiet hum of the Rust Bucket's engine filled the background as final goodbyes were exchanged.
Ruby and Yang stood with their father, sharing one last hug before heading off. Ruby beamed up at him. "Don't worry, Dad! We'll be fine."
Tai chuckled, ruffling her hair. "I know, kiddo. Just make sure to actually enjoy yourself for once, alright?"
Yang smirked, crossing her arms. "Pfft, please. I am fun."
Tai gave her a pointed look. "Yeah, well, let's try to keep that fun from destroying any more businesses, okay?"
Yang groaned and threw her head back dramatically. "One time! That guy totally had it coming!"
Tai laughed. "Yeah? Well, tell that to his insurance company."
As Yang and Tai continued their banter, Ruby approached Phantom, her silver eyes full of quiet concern. "You be careful out there, okay?"
Phantom gave a small nod. "I will. You focus on relaxing—you've earned it."
Reaching into one of the pouches on his utility belt, he pulled out a sleek black card and handed it to her.
"Here. This is the account Ironwood set up for us before we left Vale. It's loaded with lien, so make sure to get everything on the list."
Ruby took the card, blinking in surprise. "Wait, seriously?" She turned it over in her hand, staring at the official insignia on it.
Phantom nodded. "Ten black shirts, ten pairs of pants 10 pairs of basketball shorts, five pairs of underwear, three dress shirts three polo shirts, a suit, two pairs of sneakers, a pair of dress shoes, rain boots, toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, dental floss. Clothes should be extra-large, shoes are size 13. Get yourself something, too—I'll have Decca send you a text with the full details."
Ruby looked up at him, still a little stunned, before breaking into a warm smile. "Wow… thanks, Phantom. I really appreciate this."
Phantom simply nodded. "Just don't forget to have fun." After a moment Ruby looked confused.
"I do have a question what's basketball?" Phantom paused for seconds before quickly explaining.
"it's an earth sport I'll explain more later just get exercise shorts."
Ruby nodded and understanding and with that Phantom moved to the entrance leaning out the door he shouted "finish up and let's roll out!"
As the Rustbucket rumbled to life and rolled down the driveway, Phantom, Max, Kevin, and Tai set off, leaving the rest of the group to figure out their own transportation. With the RV no longer available, they needed to assign cars for the trip to the store.
Before anyone could start sorting out seating arrangements, a smooth, familiar voice chimed in from Phantom's car.
"No need to worry, Ben. Phantom left me behind to help out. I can drive the car remotely," Decca announced.
Gwen, Yang, and Ben all exchanged looks, each of them grinning at the convenience. Ben leaned back, folding his arms behind his head with a smirk.
"Well, that certainly makes things easier. Plus, knowing how girls shop for clothes, we could use the extra space," he quipped, a mischievous glint in his eye.
Before he could react, Yang's fist playfully collided with his arm, the hit packing enough of a punch to be felt but not enough to actually hurt.
"Careful, Ben," Yang teased, grinning. "Don't make me have to clothesline you."
Ben just chuckled, rubbing his arm. "Oh, come on, Yang. We both know if we ever fought, I'd knock you right out of your socks."
Yang raised an eyebrow, her smirk widening. "Is that a challenge?" she asked, the excitement creeping into her voice.
Ben's grin didn't waver. "Care to make it interesting?"
"Loser buys lunch?" Yang proposed without hesitation.
Ben nodded. "You're on." They shook on it, both radiating competitive energy.
As everyone began piling into their assigned vehicles, Gwen, still smiling, couldn't help but notice the shift in Ben. When they first arrived in Remnant, he'd seemed… different.
There had been something heavier weighing on him, something unspoken.
But now, with Yang's teasing and their easy back-and-forth, he was starting to feel like himself again. It wasn't just banter—it was like he was rediscovering something he'd lost.
Meanwhile, as Ruby climbed into the backseat of Kevin's car with Weiss, Blake, and Sun, she glanced at Gwen, who had taken the driver's seat. She hesitated for a moment before speaking.
"You notice it too, right?" Ruby asked quietly.
Gwen, eyes on the rearview mirror, gave a small, knowing smile. "Yeah. He and Yang have gotten pretty close."
Ruby nodded, hugging Zwei closer to her chest. "It's nice to see. Feels like… he needed this."
Gwen didn't respond right away, but the warmth in her gaze said enough.
Back in Ben's car, he managed to cram Pyrrha's wheelchair into the trunk before hopping into the driver's seat.
Pyrrha took the front, while the rest of Team JNPR squeezed into the back.
Yang, meanwhile, hopped on bumblebee is she revved the bikes engine and begin to drive towards them shopping mall.
(With Ben and team JNPR normal POV)
"No, no, no—stay in the ball! Please!" Nora practically shouted, gripping her 3DS tightly as she furiously tapped the buttons, her eyes locked onto the screen.
Her frustration turned to triumph in an instant as the Poké Ball finally clicked shut, signaling her successful capture of the wild Yungoos. "Yes! Gotcha, you little rascal!" she cheered, pumping her fist in victory.
From the driver's seat, Ben glanced in the rearview mirror and smirked. "Let me guess—Gwen got you hooked on Pokémon?"Nora barely looked up, grinning ear to ear. "Oh, you know she did! She said it was a fun way to pass the time, but she didn't warn me about how stressful catching these little guys can be!"
Sitting in the front passenger seat, Pyrrha turned her head slightly to glance back at Nora, then at the small device in her hands. "Ben, what exactly is that?" she asked curiously.
Before Ben could answer, Jaune, seated in the back with Ren and Nora, chimed in. "And, uh… what's a Yungoos? It sounds like some kind of Grimm."
Ben chuckled as he focused on the road. "Not quite. Pokémon—short for 'Pocket Monsters'—is a video game, book series, and TV show all about catching little creatures and battling with them.
Nora's playing one of the games on a 3DS, which is that handheld console she's using." Ren, ever the observant one, nodded slightly. "So it's a game centered around training creatures for combat? Interesting."
Before Ben could say more, Pyrrha glanced at him thoughtfully. "You wouldn't happen to have another one of those… 3DS devices, would you?"
Ben blinked in surprise before nodding. "Yeah, I do, actually. But I didn't peg you as the gaming type, Pyrrha."
She offered a small, almost sheepish smile. "I play from time to time, but I never had much opportunity with training and tournaments keeping me busy. However…"
She glanced down at her wheelchair, her expression faltering for just a moment before she looked back up with a soft chuckle. "Since I'll be stuck like this for a while, I'd rather have something to keep me occupied."
Ben's expression softened as he reached into his bag with one hand while keeping the other steady on the wheel. "Lucky for you, I always carry a spare."
Nora let out an excited gasp. "Pyrrha, we're gonna be Pokémon masters together!"
Pyrrha chuckled as she accepted the 3DS Ben handed over. "I suppose I should start by learning how to play first."
"Oh, don't worry, I got you!" Nora declared, leaning forward over the seat excitedly. "Lesson one—yelling at the Poké Ball totally helps!"
Ren sighed. "I don't think that's actually proven to work, Nora."
Jaune, watching the whole thing unfold, just shook his head with a grin. "This is gonna be a long ride…"
After ten minutes of driving, the group finally arrived at the Vail County Mall, a decently sized shopping center with a spacious parking lot. The building's name was displayed in bold, elegant lettering above the entrance, welcoming visitors with a sense of grandeur. One by one, the group filed out of their respective vehicles—some stretching after the ride, others glancing around in curiosity.
"We're here!" Ruby announced with barely contained excitement as she practically bounced out of Kevin's car, her eyes already scanning the storefronts. Her team followed suit, stepping onto the pavement with varying levels of enthusiasm.
Meanwhile, Ben and Jaune headed to the back of Ben's car, where they retrieved a wheelchair from the trunk. Working together, they swiftly unfolded it and set it up for Pyrrha, who, despite the movement around her, remained utterly engrossed in the handheld console she held in her lap.
Pyrrha's emerald eyes stayed glued to the 3DS screen, seemingly oblivious to everything else. She was navigating an avatar through a lush, pixelated forest. The character on-screen wore a sleek black sleeveless shirt, a red skirt, black thigh-high stockings, and black sneakers, topped off with a red hat adorned with red sunglasses.
Curious, Ruby leaned in over Pyrrha's shoulder to get a better look. "Ooooh, whatcha playing?" she asked, only for Nora to suddenly grab her by the arm and pull her aside.
"Oh, Ruby, let me tell you about the wonderful world of Pokémon!" Nora declared dramatically, throwing her free arm into the air as if she were about to tell the greatest story ever told.
As the group made their way toward the mall entrance, Amber hesitated slightly before speaking up.
"S-So… where to first?" she asked timidly, still adjusting to everything that had happened since she'd woken up the day before.
Yang didn't hesitate for a second. "Oh, that's easy! We should start with Armory Alley!"
She declared with a confident grin. "It's a shop run by Huntsmen for Huntsmen and Huntresses. Their prices are fair, and they've got some awesome gear." Ruby immediately jumped in before Yang could elaborate further.
"Yeah! Plus, they've got armor and clothes, too." She turned her attention toward Jaune, her gaze pointed. "Speaking of which… Jaune, no offense, but it's way past time you got some new armor."
At the mention of armor, Pyrrha finally looked up from her game, her attention shifting to her partner. "I completely agree. And while we're at it, we should get you a new hoodie as well."
Jaune frowned. "What's wrong with my hoodie?" Pyrrha simply gave him a patient yet knowing look. "Jaune… just take a good look at it and tell me."
Furrowing his brows, Jaune glanced down at his trusty old hoodie. At first, nothing seemed out of the ordinary.
But as he inspected it more closely, he noticed the fraying fabric, the small holes forming near the sleeves, and the way it felt a little too snug in certain areas.
"…Okay, maybe it is a little worn out," he admitted sheepishly. "But hey, if it ain't broke, don't fix—" Jaune began, but he was abruptly cut off as every woman in the group turned to him, their expressions a mix of incredulity and expectation, silently urging him to finish that sentence. The weight of their gazes made him swallow hard, and he felt the familiar anxiety creeping in.
Ben, ever the quick thinker and knowing the precariousness of Jaune's situation all too well, jumped in to save his friend. "Trust me, this is an argument you're not going to win, Jaune. Just get a new hoodie." His voice was calm and confident, as if he had dealt with similar situations many times before.
Realizing that it was wiser to concede than to dig himself a deeper hole, Jaune took a deep breath. "Okay, okay! I'll get a new hoodie. Happy?" he said, his tone carrying a hint of playful resignation, trying to maintain his composure despite the teasing atmosphere.
The girls softened their stares, Pyrrha's face lighting up with a bright smile. "Very," she replied cheerfully, her green eyes sparkling with encouragement, clearly pleased with his decision.
With that, the group resumed their journey, weaving deeper into the bustling mall toward Armory Alley, where the latest in stylish gear was calling their names. Ruby, her excitement bubbling over, glanced around with wide, eager eyes. "I wonder how Phantom and the rest are doing?" she mused aloud, her silver eyes darting around as if expecting to catch a glimpse of their friends.
Amber Shipley, with her laid-back demeanor, shrugged slightly, a small smile playing on her lips. "I'm sure he's fine," she replied, her voice steady and reassuring, exuding a sense of calm that balanced Ruby's eagerness.
Ruby nodded vigorously, her confidence restored. "You're right! I'm sure he's fine!" she declared, her voice brightening the mood as the group continued onward, laughter and chatter mingling with the ambient sounds of the mall, ready for whatever adventures awaited them amidst the vibrant chaos of shops and displays.
(With Phantom and the Others – Normal POV)
The afternoon sun hung high in the sky, casting long shadows through the forest clearing where the Rust Bucket had come to a stop. The air was thick with tension as the four men found themselves surrounded by a snarling pack of Beowulfs.
From atop the Rust Bucket, Phantom 10 and Max provided cover fire. Max's Plumber blaster fired precise energy bursts, each shot striking with deadly accuracy. Beside him, Phantom gripped his SMG-like weapon—a sleek, futuristic firearm resembling an M7S, but instead of bullets, it fired controlled bursts of crackling blue energy bolts. Each shot pierced through Grimm bodies, sending several Beowulfs collapsing into black mist before they could even reach their targets.
On the ground, Kevin and Tai fought in brutal close combat. Kevin had absorbed the material of a spare Plumber uniform, his body taking on the dark metallic sheen of the armor plating. His right arm had morphed into a massive sand-formed mace, swinging in powerful arcs that sent Beowulfs flying before they dissolved into nothingness.
Tai, on the other hand, was a force of nature. With expert precision, he ducked beneath an incoming swipe before driving his fist straight through a Beowulf's skull, shattering its bone mask with sheer strength. He spun on his heel, delivering a devastating roundhouse kick to another Grimm's head, sending it crashing into a tree before it crumbled into dust.
Kevin crushed another Grimm with a downward swing of his mace before turning to Phantom with a scowl. "This is not okay!" he shouted, smashing another Beowulf for emphasis.
Tai punched a Beowulf so hard that his fist passed through its skull. The beast barely had time to let out a dying snarl before vanishing into black mist. "Now you figure that out?" he quipped.
Above them, Phantom 10 narrowed his glowing white eyes beneath his mask. His voice was sharp and laced with frustration.
"YOU JUST HAD TO SAY SOMETHING, KEVIN!" he snapped, firing a rapid burst of energy bolts that tore through two more approaching Beowulfs. "YOU KNOW HOW THIS WORKS! ANYONE WITH AN OMNITRIX HAS THE WORST LUCK WITH THE UNIVERSE!"
His grip on the gun tightened as his mind flashed back to the exact moment that led to this situation.
(Flashback – Earlier in the Rust Bucket)
Kevin leaned against the interior of the Rust Bucket, arms folded behind his head with a smug grin. "Man, this is pretty easy so far," he said with a chuckle. "At this rate, the whole ride's gonna be like this."
The second the words left his mouth, Phantom 10 immediately stiffened I see place down the data pad with the prison records on it. His fingers instinctively summoned his SMG The weapon was a sleek, compact submachine gun, its matte-black frame designed for precision and discretion.
With a slender, ergonomic grip and a smooth, streamlined barrel, it was built for operators who needed firepower without sacrificing stealth. A built-in suppressor extended slightly past the muzzle, reducing the weapon's report to a mere whisper.
And within seconds, the sound of paws scraping against the earth and deep, guttural growls filled the air outside.
Tai let out a heavy sigh, already rolling his shoulders in preparation for the fight.
Phantom's voice was bitter and laced with exasperation. "Honestly, I was expecting Tai to say it first," he muttered as he flicked off his weapon's safety.
(Present Time – Normal POV)
"Hey, don't put all of this on me!" Kevin protested as he morphed his arm into a jagged blade, slicing through the nearest Beowulf with ease. "How was I supposed to know that Ben's bad luck was locked inside the Omnitrix?!"
Phantom let out a growl, frustrated beyond belief. "Next time, don't tempt fate!"
Seeing an opening to end the fight, Phantom's SMG dematerialized in a burst of energy. Without hesitation, he leaped off the roof of the Rust Bucket, flipping through the air as his Omnitrix symbol flared to life. A bright green flash engulfed his form, revealing his transformation into Diamondhead. Unlike Ben's form, Phantom's had a jagged scar running over his right eye, making him look even more battle-worn.
As he landed, Phantom pulled his crystalline fists back before slamming them into the ground. The impact sent a massive shockwave through the earth, emerald spikes erupting from the soil in all directions. The deadly formations impaled nearly half the Beowulf pack instantly, their bodies twitching before dissolving into mist.
But he wasn't finished.
Phantom lifted his arms, and the shattered shards of crystal hovered midair before breaking into smaller, razor-sharp projectiles.
With a controlled thrust, he launched the deadly barrage forward, the shards whistling through the air before piercing the remaining Beowulfs.
One by one, the Grimm let out guttural howls before collapsing into nothingness.
As the last beast crumbled, Phantom straightened up, his crystalline form gleaming under the bright afternoon sun. His glowing green eyes turned toward Kevin, his voice cold but laced with exhaustion.
"Next time," he muttered, "keep your mouth shut."
Kevin huffed, brushing some Grimm dust off his shoulder. "Yeah, yeah. Not my fault the universe has its out for Omnitrix wielders like Ben."
From atop the Rust Bucket, Max shook his head and reloaded his blaster. "Alright, boys," he called out, "let's get moving before more of them show up."
As the group prepared to press forward, Phantom took one last glance at the battlefield as he pressed the Omnitrix on his chest to transform back into human form, his expression unreadable beneath his mask.
He knew one thing for certain—this wasn't the last time they'd be dealing with More trouble that day.
As the group piled back into their rust bucket of a vehicle, the atmosphere inside was a mixture of anticipation and tension. Kevin perched himself across from Phantom, who was engrossed in studying the prison records, the glow of the screen reflecting off his focused expression.
Tai, with his usual keen sense of readiness, slid into the passenger seat, while Max took the helm, his hands gripping the steering wheel with a mix of excitement and determination.
The two older men in the vehicle exchanged tales of training and old stories, their voices a comforting backdrop to the otherwise charged atmosphere.
Kevin, sensing the undercurrent of unease, broke the silence. "So, who do you think we'll have to deal with? Any big names in the mix?" His tone was casual, but the question hung heavily in the air.
Phantom's fingers paused over the screen, his concentration unbroken for a moment longer before he finally looked up, a hint of annoyance flickering in his eyes. "Thankfully, no. There are some decent heavy hitters mentioned here, but most of them aren't particularly dangerous." His voice was steady, but there was an edge to it that hinted at something left unsaid.
Kevin raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued, sensing the hesitation in Phantom's words. "I feel a 'but' coming," he said, leaning forward slightly.
"You'd be right," Phantom replied, his tone shifting to a more serious note.
"Unfortunately, minutes before Cooper and Max made it out of Plumber HQ, someone broke in through the ventilation system. I'm not entirely sure who or what it was yet." His eyes narrowed slightly as he returned to the data, analyzing the patterns before him.
Kevin's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "How do you know that just from reading the prison records?" he asked, skepticism lacing his voice. Before he could press further, Phantom continued, his gaze still fixed on the screen.
"This data pad contains more than just prison records. It also holds a detailed report about the events leading up to the attack and the daring escape," he explained, his annoyance with Kevin's interruptions palpable.
"Well, that can be good," Kevin responded sarcastically, crossing his arms, trying to mask his growing concern.
Phantom nodded in agreement, the lines on his forehead deepening. "Unfortunately, it's far from reassuring. Most likely, whoever this person is, they're probably on Remnant now." His voice carried a weight that hinted at the danger they faced.
Before Kevin could respond, Max's voice echoed from the front, breaking the tension. "Hey, Phantom, how much further until we get there?"
Phantom glanced at a map of Patch he had unfolded in his palm, marked with a blue dot indicating their current position. After a moment of contemplation, he replied.
"Stop here. We need to gather whatever supplies we can; the rest of the way will be on foot." His tone was authoritative, yet tinged with that familiar annoyance directed at Kevin's incessant questioning.
Max nodded, his expression shifting to one of determination as he grabbed his Multiblaster and secured a sidearm along with a couple of grenades.
Phantom, with an air of practiced precision, summoned his SMGs, one in each hand, the weapons gleaming ominously in the dim light.
As Kevin stepped out of the vehicle, he noticed the striking similarity between Phantom's guns and his own, but he couldn't quite put his finger on it. Shrugging it off, he followed the group into the wild.
Once outside, they were greeted by the sight of an unkempt road, overgrown with vines and littered with branches and logs, remnants of neglect that had accumulated over the years.
Even the rust bucket they had ridden in would have struggled to maneuver through the debris.
After about ten minutes of navigating the treacherous terrain, the group of four stood atop a hill, their eyes drawn to the sight below them.
In the middle of a vast, open field lay Fort Outreach, a military base that stood defiant against the passage of time. The walls, painted a metallic gray,
Loomed strong and sturdy, while multiple watchtowers punctuated the corners, their silhouettes stark against the sky.
Barbed wire crowned the top of the walls, a stark reminder of the fort's purpose, and a massive gate, despite its rust, appeared perfectly functional, guarding the secrets within.
Surrounding the base were several hoop houses and a runway, remnants of a bustling past.
Phantom gestured toward the base with an air of grim acceptance. "Welcome to Fort Outreach."
His voice was steady, but the weight of their mission hung heavily in the air, a palpable tension that mirrored the looming structure before them.
The men carefully made their way down the overgrown hill toward the long-abandoned base. Before entering the main building, Phantom motioned for them to check out the nearby hoop houses first — faded structures barely holding together after years of neglect. Slinging his rifle to his back, Phantom crouched by the first lock, tools ready, but before he could even start picking it—
CRUNCH.
Kevin casually walked up and punched the lock clean off.
Phantom turned sharply, irritation flashing beneath his mask. "You know we're trying not to damage everything, right?"
Kevin just shrugged with that usual smirk. "Please, this place looks like it hasn't seen a maintenance crew since before the Great War. Besides, Ironwood's just gonna throw Lien at it for upgrades anyway." He gestured dismissively at the crumbling structures.
Phantom stared silently for a couple of seconds, then coolly replied, "Clockwork."
Kevin blinked… then groaned, rubbing his temples as the realization hit. "Right. Right. Forgot you and Ben had that one."
Tai, standing nearby with arms crossed, gave a puzzled look. "Clockwork?"
Max, already stepping forward to inspect the doorframe, explained smoothly, "Alien form. Can rewind, fast-forward, or pause time — on people or objects. Makes little things like busted locks no big deal."
Tai raised a brow. "Seriously?" The thought of manipulating time like it was nothing threw him a bit.
Max just nodded. "Dead serious."
Without wasting another second, Phantom pushed open the now-unlocked door, revealing the interior of the first hoop house. Inside sat rows of old military transports — rusted, worn, but unmistakably tough.
The vehicles were similar to Jeeps, but more brutal in design, sporting reinforced armor, roof-mounted turret platforms with foot-locking clamps for the gunners, and trailer hitches welded to the truck beds.
Each one could comfortably transport six people and haul cargo without issue.
Tai stepped closer, rubbing his chin as he circled one. "Never seen anything like these before… definitely not from around Vale."
"Experimental, maybe?" Kevin guessed, running a hand along the worn hull of one vehicle. He gave a playful knock on the armor. "Not bad for antiques."
Phantom found a rusted filing cabinet tucked against the wall. Picking the lock with ease, he sifted through the yellowed files, eventually pulling one free. His eyes scanned it quickly.
"They're called M.U.L.E.s. Multi-Utility Loading Escorts. Designed for all-terrain transport and combat. Built tough and apparently designed to work alongside some kind of aircraft—" he flipped to another page, eyes narrowing, "—looks like they can even be air-dropped."
Tai raised both brows. "Air-dropped?"
Kevin grinned. "Think of it like dropping a steel battering ram out of a plane… except it drives away after."
Tai's expression shifted between impressed and concerned. "How is that supposed to be safe for the driver?"
"Veil probably called it a feature," Phantom deadpanned, closing the file.
The group moved on, stepping deeper into the hoop house until they came across a built-in auto shop. Spare parts, tools, and maintenance equipment, most still in usable condition, lined the shelves. Kevin whistled low. "This could come in handy. Tools are still in good shape too."
"Take stock later," Max suggested. "Let's see what the others hold."
They stepped outside and approached the second hoop house. This time, Tai watched closely as Kevin once again smashed the lock off with ease.
Tai crossed his arms. "Seriously? That's the second one."
Kevin shrugged again. "Old habits."
Kevin what's the first to step in the group step in after him . Inside, resting beneath layers of dust and rust, was an aircraft — bigger than anything Tai expected.
Its black and green paint had faded heavily, with streaks of rust creeping along the body. The front was fitted with a rusted-out Gatling gun, still menacing despite its condition.
The group slowly fanned out around it.
The aircraft's body was wide, and mounted on each side were two spherical domes, each containing a seat and what looked like a base for a turret — though neither turret was currently installed. Both wings were mounted on top of the aircraft, each supporting two massive jet engines.
Phantom circled it, eyes narrowing as he inspected the way the engines were positioned.
"Those jets can rotate from horizontal to vertical," Phantom pointed out, tapping the side of one.
Kevin tilted his head. "So it's got VTOL?"
"Not just that," Max said, running a hand along one of the wing supports. "Take a look under the wings, closer to the fuselage."
Tai followed their gaze and spotted two large cylinder-shaped weapons built beneath each wing.
"Rail launchers?" Tai guessed, more unsure than certain.
Phantom nodded. "Yeah, full-sized railguns. Looks like this wasn't just a transport, this was heavy air support."
Moving around to the rear, the group noticed the back ramp had been left open, revealing the interior. Phantom took the lead, stepping up the ramp and into the aircraft, with the others following closely.
Inside, there were four rows of seats, two on each side of the walls, bolted directly to the floor. The first row had three seats, and the second row had four.
Between the rows was a sealed door, likely leading to the turret control stations connected to the domes they saw outside. Along the walls were shelves running from the front of the cargo bay to the back, probably for gear and ammunition.
Phantom's foot clanked against the grated metal floor. He tapped it twice, noticing something faint underneath.
"Holographic display's built under the floor. Probably for mid-flight mission briefings."
Above them, two rows of dull overhead lights lined the ceiling, likely meant to illuminate the entire bay when powered up. Underneath every seat was small compartment storage for personal gear.
"This must be the aircraft mentioned in the M.U.L.E. files," Tai said as he looked around, half in awe.
Phantom climbed the ladder leading to the cockpit. The cockpit was decently spacious, though practical — built for function more than comfort.
Four seats were arranged inside: two up front for the pilot and co-pilot, and two more directly against the wall near the door. Phantom noticed that the left seat was labeled "Navigator" and the right "Communications." In the back corner was a weapon rack, with a few old brackets still bolted into the walls for equipment.
Resting on the back of one chair, he found a faded logbook and flipped it open. Dust poured off the pages, but the ink was still legible.
"Name's V.T.R.A," Phantom read aloud. "Vertical Tactical Railgun Aircraft. Designed for heavy air support, group transport, and built specifically to carry M.U.L.E.s using built-in supports on the ramp overhang."
Kevin whistled. "So, a flying weapons platform and a cargo hauler? Not bad."
Tai crossed his arms. "How exactly do you drop one of those M.U.L.E.s from this thing?"
Phantom flipped a page. "Says here it was rated for over a 100-foot air-drop."
Kevin grinned, slapping the wall. "Veil really doesn't mess around."
Tai looked mildly horrified. "And no one thought that was, I don't know… dangerous?"
Max chuckled. "Back then? Dangerous was part of the job description."
With nothing else of note, they headed to the third and final hoop house. Kevin smashed yet another lock, grinning to himself.
Tai gave him a dry look. "I get the feeling you just like breaking them now."
Kevin chuckled. "What gave it away?"
Inside was an old ammunition shed, lined with crates of bullets, missiles, and heavy weaponry — some clearly meant for the V.T.R.A., others for the M.U.L.E.s. At the far end, a large tarp-covered object loomed.
Kevin started toward it, only for Phantom to grab his collar sharply, halting him.
"Don't," Phantom warned flatly. "Who knows how unstable those munitions are? One bad move, and we'd be scrap."
Max backed him up immediately. "Phantom's right. And frankly, I don't think Gwen would appreciate me hauling you back in a bucket."
Kevin huffed. "Yeah, yeah. No need to bust my chops, old man."
"Then quit making it easy," Max shot back with a small smirk.
Phantom was already moving for the door. "Let's focus on the base. This ammo can wait for specialists."
Tai lingered a moment, glancing around the forgotten facility. Despite still adjusting to the group, he was starting to feel the familiar rhythm of a team — even if it was a bit rough around the edges.
And rough edges were starting to feel a little more comfortable.
Walking up to one of the crumbling concrete walls, Phantom calmly drew 4 of his phase discs and fired it.
The glowing disc embedded itself into the surface, emitting a brief hum before creating a translucent oval-shaped opening. Without missing a beat, the group stepped through the now-phased wall, entering the perimeter of the abandoned base.
The courtyard was bleak and worn, marked by years of neglect. Scattered in one corner were rusting training dummies and cracked weapon racks, while a weather-beaten obstacle course sat half-collapsed nearby.
On the far end, several buildings stood battered and broken, their roofs sagging and walls pockmarked with holes.
Yet, at the heart of it all, the main structure loomed mostly intact — tall, cold, and imposing like a fortress forgotten by time.
Kevin gave it a look and scoffed. "Yeah, I dunno, maybe that one is where we should start," he quipped, voice dripping with sarcasm.
"Brilliant deduction, Sherlock," Phantom replied dryly, though the subtle edge in his voice betrayed his focus as he continued to scan the area.
They began to move, boots crunching softly on gravel, when Phantom suddenly raised his fist. The group halted instantly, no questions asked.
His visor flickered for a second as his sensors highlighted movement near the main building.
Phantom silently pointed toward a partially standing structure just ahead, and without hesitation, they slipped behind it, taking cover.
From around the left corner of the main building, a hulking figure emerged. Massive, even by Grimm standards. A Beowulf — but not just any Beowulf.
This one towered over its kin, thick with muscle and dark bone-like spikes jutting from its back and arms.
Its claws scraped against the dirt, and its glowing red eyes scanned the area, predatory and sharp.
Tai's eyes widened as he whispered, "Oh crap… that's an Alpha Beowulf."
Unfortunately, his whisper wasn't soft enough. The Alpha's ears twitched, and its head snapped toward the sound.
It let out a low growl, heavy and guttural, before starting a deliberate, menacing march toward them.
Phantom silently cursed and smoothly drew both of his SMGs, their quiet mechanical clicks breaking the silence as he brought them to bear.
His stance shifted slightly, steady and deliberate. Max, ever calm but alert, slid out his Multiblaster, adjusting the settings with practiced ease.
Kevin, grinning in spite of the danger, cracked his neck and willed both arms to morph into heavy iron maces, the metal glinting under the faded sky. "Looks like it wants to play," he muttered with excitement.
Tai, fists tightening, shifted into a looser, more fluid fighting stance, feet sliding subtly for better footing.
Despite the tension in his shoulders, he looked ready to move — not with recklessness, but with the instinct of someone who's been through this before.
The Alpha's growl deepened as it stalked closer, unbothered by their preparation.
(With Ben and the others at Patch Mall normal POV)
A few hours had passed since the group had set out, and they had made significant progress. After navigating through the busy corridors of the mall, they found themselves inside a unique store — Armory Alley.
The shop, lined with racks of weapons and armor, was dimly lit, with an almost antique feel, as if each item had a history to tell. Amber had taken advantage of the store's extensive collection, managing to find a perfect replacement for her original weapon.
The mechanical bo staff she now held was an impressive piece of craftsmanship.
Though it resembled her original staff, it was enhanced with sleek, dark metallic components that gave it a more modern, high-tech edge.
Most notably, the bo staff had been designed with the ability to split into two separate pieces, granting her more combat versatility and making it easier to handle in close quarters.
Amber had also chosen a new outfit from the store, one that struck a balance between style, functionality, and defense. Draped over her left side was a plain, deep-blue cape that added a subtle elegance to her look.
The fabric moved gracefully as she shifted, and it featured a pointed hood that gave her an almost mysterious air when pulled up.
On her right arm, she wore a lightweight but durable bronze pauldron, intricately shaped with the design of a pelican. Its wings appeared to spread outward, catching the light in a way that made it seem almost alive.
The bronze armor, though not too heavy, was designed for both protection and ease of movement.
Beneath the pauldron, Amber's arm was encased in a matching bronze gauntlet, engraved with a unique wind pattern, its swirls faintly shimmering as though caught in a breeze.
Her torso was adorned with a rich gold-colored corset, its gleam offset by the simplicity of a black sleeveless shirt underneath.
The corset fit her form perfectly, not just as a protective layer but also as a striking visual element that blended strength with grace.
Her legs were covered in black pants, fitted to provide full mobility. Over her upper thighs and knees, she wore bronze armor, crafted to give added protection without hindering her movements.
The dark-blue boots on her feet completed the ensemble, practical for both walking and combat, with sturdy soles designed to grip the ground firmly.
In the dimly lit shop, Amber stood with a quiet sense of purpose, her new look a clear reflection of both her inner strength and her ability to adapt.
Each piece of armor, from the wind-patterned gauntlet to the golden corset, seemed to tell a story of resilience and transformation.
As she looked herself in the mirror she could only feel a sentence of calmness as she rarely ever got to do this before when she was on the road she would rarely ever stay in towns for too long.
And with everything that happened the previous day if she was happy to finally have a break to process everything.
"Hey, Amber!" Ruby called as she jogged up beside the older Huntress, a bright grin lighting up her face. Amber turned to look and blinked in surprise when she noticed Ruby's new outfit.
Ruby now wore a white turtleneck blouse with puffy sleeves, each sleeve accented by brown straps crossing into an 'X' pattern near her elbows. Black gauntlets covered her forearms, polished and sharp-looking.
A sleek black corset with deep red highlights cinched around her waist, perfectly matching the red-trimmed black skirt that swayed lightly as she moved.
Wrapped securely around her hips was an ammo belt, clearly practical, yet styled to suit her flair.
Her legs were covered by black thigh-high stockings, each marked with a faint rose design trailing up the side.
Her familiar red combat boots looked sturdier than ever, accented with subtle upgrades. Lastly, her iconic red cloak now attached with a gunmetal-gray pin shaped like a rose engulfed in flames — a small but bold change.
Ruby gave an excited twirl, letting the cloak flare out as she stopped in front of Amber. "So, what do you think?" she asked, silver eyes wide with hope and energy.
Amber couldn't help but smile warmly. Ruby's excitement was as infectious as always. Even after everything, she was still so full of life.
"It looks great, Ruby," Amber replied, pulling down her hood as her own smile softened. "It really suits you."
Ruby's grin somehow grew even bigger. "Thank you, Amber! Oh—right! Yang wanted me to tell you we're heading out soon."
Amber gave a simple nod, and Ruby immediately skipped off ahead, practically bouncing through the rows of weaponry, armor, and outfits scattered around the shop. Amber followed at a slower pace, watching as Ruby rejoined the rest of Team RWBY.
Yang stood near one of the displays, arms crossed, looking every bit the confident brawler. Her new outfit suited her well — she wore a short-sleeved brown jacket with a belted collar, worn open to reveal a golden-yellow cropped tank top beneath.
brown leather gauntlets with golden zippers guarded her arms, and brown fingerless gloves added to her rugged look. A belt with twin tailcoats hung from her waist, giving her silhouette some movement.
She sported dark brown pants with a purple bandana wrapped around her right thigh, and her boots were tough-looking brown leather with gold highlights, giving off a slight shine with each shift of her weight.
She gave Ruby a thumbs-up as she approached, a proud smirk tugging at the corner of her lips.
Blake stood quietly to the side, inspecting a few blades on display, but glanced up when Ruby arrived.
Unlike before, she now wore a white cropped jacket with twin coattails and a high collar, her once-hidden cat ears fully visible without the cover of her usual bow.
A simple but stylish black crop top peeked out from under the jacket, exposing a small portion of her toned stomach.
A purple belt secured her weapon, Gambol Shroud, to her back. Black fitted pants hugged her legs, and a white belt with a side pouch added a practical touch.
She finished the look with thigh-high, black-purple boots, accented with golden trims.
Despite her usual stoic demeanor, Amber could tell Blake seemed more comfortable—more herself—with her Faunus heritage now openly displayed.
Ruby's eyes sparkled as she took her place among her team, bouncing slightly on her heels as they prepared to move out.
"Well look at you girls looking good." Amber said with a sweet smile "aw thanks Autumn."
Amber Reese a eyebrow in confusion before she could ask Blake spoke up in clarification "She likes to give all of us nicknames her name starts with a and another word for fall is autumn."
Amber gave a satisfied nod before turning her head toward Weiss, only now realizing that the white-haired heiress wasn't carrying any shopping bags.
Her usual composed expression remained unchanged, but it was clear she hadn't bothered to pick out anything new.
"Ah, Weiss, you're not getting any clothes?" Amber asked, tilting her head curiously.
Weiss simply shook her head, her arms crossed with an air of nonchalance. "I don't have to. My family is sending some of my clothes down from Atlas."
The group nodded in understanding. It wasn't exactly surprising—Weiss was never one to settle for anything less than top-quality, and with her family's resources, she didn't need to.
At that moment, Team JNPR made their way toward the entrance of Armory Alley, looking a little different than before.
Pyrrha sat comfortably in her wheelchair, a shopping bag resting on her lap as she remained focused on her Nintendo 3DS, eyes scanning the screen as she played Pokémon X. A small, victorious smirk tugged at her lips—she was clearly doing well.
Jaune, however, was the one who stood out the most. His old, worn-out hoodie had been replaced with something entirely new.
His new attire consisted of white armor with elegant gold trim, giving him a more knightly appearance.
A single shoulder pauldron adorned his right arm, while his arms were now protected by sleek white gauntlets, each featuring gold detailing.
His hands were covered in black armored gloves reinforced with dark gold plating, offering both style and protection. Instead of his previous hoodie, he now sported a black short-sleeved one, giving him a slightly more casual yet battle-ready look.
A red sash was wrapped around his waist, adding a pop of color, and he paired it all with sturdy blue jeans and black boots with white tips.
He looked more confident—perhaps even a little proud of his new look—but it was still Jaune, so there was no doubt that he'd probably fumbled his way through picking it out.
Nora was next, her energy as vibrant as ever. She now wore a white shirt with a playful cut-out of her emblem on her chest, giving her outfit a personal touch.
Over it, she had thrown on a dark navy-blue jacket with pink highlights, the sleeves stopping just at her elbows.
It was a more mature look for her, but the bright pink fingerless gloves she wore ensured she kept that signature Nora flair.
She had swapped out her old attire for a stylish pink skirt, keeping her outfit dynamic and fun.
Completing the look, she sported white and black boots laced with pink strings, her socks matching the vibrant shade.
Despite the wardrobe change, her boundless enthusiasm remained the same—if anything, she seemed extra giddy about her new outfit, occasionally spinning in place just to see how the skirt flowed.
And finally, there was Ren. His new attire was sleek and refined, yet still unmistakably him.
He wore a black sleeveless turtleneck, layered beneath a deep green sleeveless jacket that extended into elegant tailcoats.
A new addition to his ensemble were the pink hanbando wrapped around his hands, the soft fabric gradually darkening into a deep purple hue before ending in silver metal bands.
It was a subtle but stylish choice, adding a layer of traditional elegance to his normally reserved look.
His baggy white pants were detailed with a silver diamond pattern toward the bottom, pairing well with his new footwear—a mix between open-toed sandals and sturdy boots.
Even with the changes, Ren carried himself with the same quiet composure, his expression calm as ever.
While the outfits were different, it was clear that Team JNPR was still the same at heart—each look reflecting their personalities in a way that made them feel right.
Yang let out a low whistle, crossing her arms with a smirk as she eyed Jaune's new look. "Well, well, well… who knew Vomit Boy could actually clean up so well?" she teased, her golden eyes gleaming with amusement.
Jaune's face immediately turned red as he rubbed the back of his head, shifting awkwardly under the attention. "Oh, uh… thanks, I guess?" he mumbled, not quite sure if it was a compliment or just another one of Yang's playful jabs.
"I know, right? He looks so much better now!" Nora suddenly declared, her voice full of excitement. Somehow, she was hanging completely upside down, her feet seemingly defying gravity as she dangled from… well, nothing. No one even questioned it—they were too used to Nora's antics at this point.
But her next words had everyone raising an eyebrow. "Especially without the little bunny rabbit on his chest!" she added dramatically.
Jaune blinked. "Wait, what?"
Everyone turned toward Nora, confused—not at the fact that she was upside down, but at what she was talking about. But before anyone could even ask, she had already swooped down behind Jaune like a bird of prey, yanking his old hoodie from where he had left it. She held it up proudly, flipping it around for all to see.
Team RWBY and Amber stared for a moment, their eyes locking onto the design on the hoodie's chest—a dark gray cartoon rabbit with black eyes, the unmistakable mascot of Pumpkin Pete's Marshmallow Flakes.
Then, all at once, Ruby snorted. Yang bit her lip, trying way too hard to hold in her laughter. Weiss turned her head away with a soft ahem, but even she wasn't immune—her shoulders trembled slightly as she pressed a hand to her mouth. And Blake? She was just quietly smirking, clearly amused but doing her best to stay out of it.
Jaune furrowed his brow, still not seeing the issue. "What?" he asked, genuinely confused. "What's so funny?"
Ruby, wiping a tear from her eye, finally managed to get a breath in before pointing directly at the hoodie. "Jaune… what is that?"
Jaune blinked at her, then at the hoodie. "Uh… my sweater?" he replied, still baffled.
"No, no, no—that." Ruby gestured wildly at the rabbit emblem, her voice teetering on the edge of another laughing fit.
Jaune stared at it, then back at her. "Oh, that? That's Pumpkin Pete! You know, the cereal mascot?"
At that, Ruby nearly choked on her own laughter. "Are you serious?" she managed between giggles.
Yang leaned in, grinning. "Jaune, please tell me you didn't buy that hoodie just because of some cereal promo."
Jaune huffed, crossing his arms. "Of course not! I—"
Then Ruby cut him off, her eyes suddenly wide with realization. "Wait… did you—oh my gosh, did you send in a cereal box to win it?"
Jaune hesitated. The room was dead silent.
Then, awkwardly, he muttered, "…Fifty."
For a moment, there was nothing but silence.
Then, like a dam breaking, Yang and Ruby collapsed onto the floor, laughing so hard that they were practically gasping for air.
"You— pfft—ate fifty boxes of cereal—" Yang wheezed, holding her stomach as tears streamed down her face.
Ruby was already pounding the ground with her fist, unable to breathe properly between fits of laughter. "Oh—oh my—I can't—I CAN'T—"
Even Weiss, usually the most composed of the group, had to turn away, pressing her fingers against her forehead as she shook with silent laughter. "Honestly, Jaune…" she murmured, but there was an undeniable hint of amusement in her voice.
Blake, smirking, took a slow sip from her coffee. "So… did it at least come with a prize?"
Jaune groaned, dragging a hand down his face. "I thought the hoodie was the prize."
Yang, barely able to contain herself, wiped a tear from her eye. "Oh, Jaune, you're killing me," she said between chuckles. "I mean, I know you like your snacks, but fifty boxes? That's commitment."
Nora, still holding the hoodie, threw an arm around Jaune's shoulder. "Hey, don't feel bad, fearless leader!" she declared cheerfully. "I think the bunny's adorable! And now it's vintage! That just makes it even cooler!"
Jaune let out a dramatic sigh, his head dropping forward in defeat. "This is not how I thought today was gonna go…"
Amber, meanwhile, had been quietly watching all of this unfold with mild amusement. Finally, she turned to Ren, who had remained completely silent the entire time. "Does this kind of thing happen often?" she asked.
Ren sighed, shaking his head as he crossed his arms. "You have no idea" Ren said flatly.
"Hey, I hope you guys weren't planning on leaving without us!"
At the sound of the voice, the group turned toward the entrance, spotting three familiar figures making their way over. Leading the trio was Ben, now dressed in a long-sleeved green shirt layered under a short-sleeved black jacket, paired with baggy black cargo pants. His usual casual energy remained, but something about his attire gave him a slightly more put-together look than usual.
Beside him, Gwen walked with an effortless grace, her blue short-sleeved shirt neatly tucked into a black skirt, complemented by stockings and black sneakers with a small blue circle near the heel. Over her shirt, she wore a short-sleeved blue jacket with a hood, though for now, she had it down. A small embroidered cat sat on the right upper chest area of her sweater—a subtle but personal touch.
As they approached, Ben's gaze landed on Yang, now dressed in her updated outfit. For a moment, he found himself staring—just a little too long. A slight blush crept onto his face before he even realized it, warmth rising to his cheeks. He wasn't sure why, but in that moment, she looked… different. Stunning, even.
Snapping himself out of it, he shook his head slightly, his blush deepening as confusion flickered across his face. Where the heck did that thought come from? Unfortunately for him, his reaction did not go unnoticed. Gwen, sharp as ever, caught the slight color in his cheeks and smirked, clearly amused.
Ben cleared his throat, trying to shake off the flustered feeling. Play it cool, Tennyson. Play it cool.
"Hey, guys. I take it everyone's little shopping trip went well?" he asked, doing his best to keep his voice level.
Yang, grinning, wasted no time in teasing him. "Oh, don't worry, Shifty. It went great. And I gotta say, you clean up well. If I didn't know any better, I'd think you were getting ready for a hot date."
Ben tensed ever so slightly. His easygoing demeanor faltered for just a split second—so brief that most of the group didn't catch it. Most, but not all. Both Gwen and Yang noticed the almost imperceptible change in his expression, a momentary softness that hinted at something beneath the surface. But just as quickly, Ben forced a small smile back onto his face.
It wasn't one of those completely fake smiles Gwen had seen him wear over the past few weeks. No, this one—while a little awkward—was at least somewhat genuine. That fact alone told her something.
"Oh, uh… thanks, Yang," Ben replied, rubbing the back of his neck. His eyes darted to Gwen, silently pleading for a way out.
Gwen, ever the quick thinker, took the cue. "Well, guys, it's getting late. We should probably start thinking about dinner."
Before anyone else could respond, Ruby's hand shot into the air, her eyes practically sparkling with excitement. "Oh! Oh! I know! We should eat at the Country Store! They don't close until eight!"
Yang instantly backed her up. "That's actually a great idea. We could catch up with the people there, and the food is awesome. Plus, they have smoothies."
At the mention of smoothies, Ben's expression immediately shifted from mildly flustered to intrigued. His love for smoothies was no secret, and that alone was enough to seal his vote. "Alright, I'm sold. Let's go."
Amber simply shrugged, her usual laid-back demeanor showing through. "Sure, I'm good with whatever. I ate all kinds of stuff when I was on the road."
Jaune, speaking on behalf of his team, gave a nod. "Sounds like a plan." He adjusted the bag in his arms, stuffing his old sweater into it before glancing at the others.
With that, the group made their way outside, the air buzzing with casual conversation and the anticipation of what was to come.
AN
And with that, this chapter comes to an end, filled with a lot of crazy plot twists, such as Outreach, along with its incredibly cool-looking military vehicles.
Most of the ideas for these vehicles came to me on the spot, inspired by concepts like the troop transport vehicle in Helldivers, the Warthog for the Halo fans, and the Pelican and Republic Gunship from the Halo series and Star wars respectively.
I want to apologize for not posting yesterday. For those reading this chapter later on, I didn't post on my usual day, which is Wednesday, as I mentioned in the author's note at the top. A bunch of real-life stuff happened, and I was unfortunately unable to finish this chapter because I was helping my family. Additionally, I had to work a long shift, so I couldn't dedicate much time to writing.
However, I'm happy to say that I have now finished this chapter and can start working on the next one. Hopefully, I'll be able to get it out on time and not have to finish it on the day it's supposed to be released.
So, next time, as Ben and his group make their way to the country store to see old faces for some and new faces for others, Phantom and his group will continue the fight against the Alpha Beowulf.
Next time on "Dimensional Heroes of Remnant," baby!