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A cold chill swept through the sprawling city of Atlas, a testament to humanity's defiance against the relentless threat of the Grimm. Amidst the sterile spires and towering walls, the city remained an island of civilization in a world of darkness. But little did its inhabitants know, the floating city was about to undergo a profound transformation.As the sun set behind the towering spires of the city, a figure lay unconscious in a shadowed alleyway. He was a stranger to this place, his identity unknown. The soft hum of Atlas' airships and the distant clang of machinery echoed around him as he began to stir, eyelids slowly fluttering open.The young man's eyes opened to reveal a vibrant shade of purple. His mind still groggy, he sat up, rubbing his head. "...Wh-where... where am I...?" he uttered weakly, his confusion quickly turning into panic.With no answers to his predicament, he stood up and looked around. The unfamiliar buildings in his line of sight brought the situation no clarity.He looked down at himself, noticing the blood stain on his royal regalia. Memories rushed back and his fingers grasped his shirt. With his fist clenched around it, he swallowed, the beating of his heart accelerating.Zero Requiem, Suzaku, Britannia, C.C. All of it started flooding into his consciousness. There, a realization hit: He died. Then why was he here? The last thing he remembered was collapsing in front of Nunnally and his vision going dark... and now Lelouch was here.Pushing his bloody clothing to the side, he found no wound or scar; his skin was perfectly smooth and unscathed. No evidence was left on his body to signify the fatal stabbing. His mind reeling in a jumble of thoughts and questions, he began walking out into the dimly lit street.His pace brisk and gaze low, he did his best to appear inconspicuous. Yet he didn't know where to go or where to begin. Despite his efforts, he clearly stood out from his environment, standing proud despite his injured appearance.To any bystander, he'd look like an injured eccentric, not just in clothing, but also with a general air about him. Clutching the blood stain on his white outfit, Lelouch Lamperouge stopped and looked up towards the now starlit sky, shocked to find the moon shattered and scarred. "It's as if nothing makes sense anymore," he uttered to himself, exasperated."I don't get it, is this some sort of... afterlife?" Lelouch pondered aloud. "No..." he continued, "it must be a new-" Focused on the moon, the once-emperor wasn't paying attention, and bumped into a couple that had rounded the corner.The three were unbalanced for a moment before stabilizing. Before Lelouch could say anything, the man shouted, "Watch where you're going, vagrant! Don't you have any manners?!" His brow furrowed and arms outspread, the man got up in Lelouch's face with anger written all over it.Immediately Lelouch realized the kind of man he was dealing with. Having interacted with several arrogant nobles in his own time, this encounter was a bit of deja vu. His anger was unmistakably that of a spoiled noble who had his status to back himself up."Listen, it's been a rough day, okay?" Lelouch started arms held out in a friendly and apologetic gesture. "There's no need for hostility, I didn't mean to bump into you-""How dare you, how dare you!" the man cut in, yelling even louder. "I bet you're just another one of the filth that weaseled their way here through the borders. Now they just refuse to leave," he said, snarling in frustration and disgust.Patience running short, the former emperor sighed. "Hey listen, just calm down, maybe? I-""Oh, and now you're telling ME to calm down? I've just about had it with your sort, and I won't take this from the likes of you," the man retorted, leaning closer and towering over Lelouch with his size.Trying to stay composed, Lelouch kept his ground, a familiar sensation of Geass flowing into his eyes and readying itself. "Seriously," he started, "Get out of my sight."At the words, the man paused and looked at him with a confused look, which was then replaced by a mask of resigned composure. "Right, I'll be on my way," he uttered, stiffly backing away, his whole bearing changed.Bewilderment crossed the woman's features. Her fiancé had switched from furious and indignant in mere seconds to this, almost like an entirely different person. "...S-sweetheart? Honey? Are you alright?..." she asked, her words drenched with concern.Looking between Lelouch and her companion, confusion turned to alarm. "My word! W-What did you do?!" she practically yelped, glaring at Lelouch and pointing, stepping between the man she loved and the so-called vagrant who had ensnared him with whatever the heck he did.Smirking at the back of the man who now shambled aimlessly away like some lost drunkard, Lelouch turned to the woman in response, not even flinching from her aggressive stance. "Before you follow his lead," he uttered, ignoring her questions and letting Geass seep into his voice, "Answer all of my questions.""You're absolutely mad if you think-" As the noble lady spoke, her tone instantly changed. Her body and expression softened, and she continued, "...yes. I will comply," the words slow, deliberate, and robotic.A smile formed on Lelouch's face; clearly whatever was happening, the power that let him command his enemies remained intact. For this moment, at least, his existence in this unfamiliar and frankly perplexing place provided at least one positive."Well then let's start," he began, his hands folded behind his back. "Where are we?"The man paced back and forth in his lavishly decorated office, pausing now and again to peer out the window at his city. James Ironwood had a lot to ponder over, given recent developments. Atlas' turbulent situation had only gotten more complicated following the fall of Beacon.After Ozpin's disappearance, his greatest concern had been Salem finally making a direct move on the world and he knew that a big attack was coming. There was no doubt about that in his mind, the only uncertainty was the "when".Thousands of lives in the City of Atlas and the surrounding Mantle were relying on him to keep them safe. If he made a bad decision, who knew how many innocent people would pay the price?His duty came first to him, and his devotion to the people who needed his help motivated him to strive forward and give everything he could to prepare his city, his people, and his army for what was to come.A grim expression etched on his face, he glanced at the paperwork piling on his desk. It felt never-ending: battle plans, supply orders, requisition reports, and the like, just stacked up with no end in sight. But he couldn't find it in himself to stop; a strong leader was needed to do this task, so he would bear through it.Letting out an exhausted sigh, Ironwood stepped away from the window, an edge would have to be found, something to tip the scales in their favor."But what...?"Entering a small cafe, a slightly shaken Lelouch sat at an empty table. Changed in a fresh set of clothing, and looking much cleaner, he was indistinguishable from any regular Atlas citizen.The things he had learned made his mind spin, so much so in fact, that once he finished questioning the woman, he opted to interrogate a completely different person to corroborate the first story. And they seemed just as adamant: all the evidence pointed to the truth of her claims.This place was Remnant, there was a war for survival being fought with Humans and Faunus alike fighting giant monsters known as the Grimm, Atlas floated, the moon was broken, there were people with supernatural powers referred to as semblances, and a lot, lot, more.It was a lot to process.It had taken nearly an hour to come to terms with the bizarre reality he had suddenly found himself in. Still, though, he retained his wits and bearings. Lelouch was used to learning on the fly in the middle of the action and quickly adjusted to his situation."Sir, is there anything you wish to order?" a female voice spoke from beside him, pulling him out of his train of thought. He tilted his head towards the source, an aproned employee standing expectantly, hands clasped to a notepad and pen."...A cup of coffee. I have some thinking to do..." Lelouch answered softly, leaning back into the wooden chair, still staring at the wall blankly.As the waitress made her way to fetch his order, Lelouch sank into his seat, sinking deep within his thoughts. A wave of frustration and unease hit him and he instinctively let out a deep, heavy breath in an attempt to cope.He was supposed to be dead. And yet, Lelouch Lamperouge still breathed. It was not part of his grand plan for things to turn out this way. In his mind, his death was the logical and final step in his Zero Requiem.This whole experience was unexpected, alien, and yet he couldn't exactly claim to be displeased. After all, a new life of sorts presented itself to him, and he didn't want to turn away.Even if this wasn't exactly the world he knew or grew up in, even if the rules were new to him, it had the opportunity for a brand new start, where the weight of past actions couldn't find him. He could become an entirely new person.New goals could be set. His power could be used freely with none the wiser. This could become his home now... could, could, could. So many thoughts ran rampant in his mind as he struggled to formulate a plan or a general course of action.Paying for the coffee with money he 'burrowed' off his second 'interrogation' subject, Lelouch rose from his seat and slowly meandered out. After exiting, he strode through the streets, one hand in his pocket, the other on the warm coffee cup.The Kingdom of Atlas was located on the cold continent of Solitas, surrounded by unforgiving tundra. Snow and frost covered the majority of the area, though the city itself remained mostly snow-free due to a Hard-light Dust shield.Lelouch took in the sights, glancing upwards at the myriad of floating ships patrolling above him. The blue glow of the buildings around him only added to the already vivid sight. It was beautiful, in a sterile and clinical way."I feel like a tourist," he muttered with an awkward smirk.As he walked the streets, he saw what the locals had described: faunus. Many were in the same vein as he, simply walking around, others working menial tasks such as washing windows, hauling goods on a cart, or tending to the many decorative trees around.All adorned with animal features, from ears to tails to scales. Onlookers shot them all with barely disguised glares of hate or discomfort, which brought Lelouch's gaze and pace to a halt."That's not new," he remarked with a bitter expression, sipping his drink. "In my old world too..." he trailed off, looking down thoughtfully into his drink and shaking his head. With an exasperated shrug, he resumed his stroll around the city.Lost in thought, he eventually stopped walking when he noticed a large screen plastered onto a tall building. Catching the audio from the broadcast, he stood at a distance and began watching with mild interest."-new stricter regulations and crackdowns will soon be coming into effect to keep Mantle and Atlas secure in the event of an impending attack." An anchorwoman announced, her gaze steady, voice strong and stoic."General Ironwood has made it clear that in these troubling times, citizens must work together to combat the threat we all face, be it Grimm, or those who would threaten our nation in these times of great peril. Tomorrow, I will host a panel discussion between the General and various representatives from Atlas."Ignoring the rest of the broadcast, Lelouch set a slow stride across a pedestrian bridge, the cold breeze caressing his cheek."If this world is going to become my home," he muttered, smiling gently, "I may as well acquaint myself with the rules... and the players."

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

1 month after initial arrival.

Time passed swiftly as Lelouch quietly began acclimating himself to the new world. Most of it had been spent surveying and studying Atlas, all while using his Geass' power to guide his assimilation, to find a new life, to blend in. It had become his key in finding opportunities to maneuver himself into the hierarchy.For weeks he had quietly embedded himself into the public sphere. After learning more about the Kingdom he found himself in, Lelouch quickly became accustomed to its ways, customs, and routines. As far as everyone else in the kingdom was aware, Lelouch Lamperouge had been nothing more than just another Atlas native.After observing and mapping out the structure of the government, the military, and their technological advantages, he had an ideal method to begin his campaign to climb up the political ladder.Car coming to a smooth halt, Lelouch stepped out of the back seat, donning a stark black overcoat over his military uniform, custom-made to fit him, and in perfect regulation. An Atlas patch adorned his breast, the pin gleaming as he climbed the concrete steps.Shooting a smile towards the valet, he entered the massive marble building. This wasn't a government structure, rather, it was a great hall reserved for numerous events: meetings, fundraisers, awards ceremonies, banquets, etc.The venue was well designed with several open balconies on every level, providing clear sights over the entire area. The walls and floors had a crisp, elegant shine to them, and everything appeared orderly and neat.Stepping inside, Lelouch needed to first confirm his attendance at the front desk. Filled with wealthy-looking individuals and military officials, the place had a lively energy to it. This particular gathering was a gala celebrating the safety and continued growth of the kingdom."Name?" the woman sitting at the front desk asked as Lelouch walked up, a wide grin on her face."Lelouch Lamperouge," he answered, maintaining an air of professionalism."Ah yes!" she exclaimed, quickly checking his name on a roster of attendees. "Welcome to the gala!" She glanced up from her file and slid him an identity card with a magnetic strip, which he affixed to his coat.Chuckling softly, Lelouch couldn't help but shake his head as he strode towards the crowd. "It seems I really can't let go of the past, in a new world I still use that name," he mused.Being a new face, he quickly made an impression. Wandering into the venue, his ears were already met by chipper feminine voices whispering and giggling."He's absolutely gorgeous," he overheard."Check out that uniform, such a snappy dresser. Looks so professional," the voice continued, a group of five ladies to the right eyeing him carefully.The rest of the party-goers began to turn, looking to the newcomer with a fair share of curiosity and suspicion.Lelouch confidently weaved through the throng of attendees, answering any greetings with an immediate smile. After a minute, he eventually settled at the side of one of the open balconies, placing an elbow on the marble railing.Turning his head, he began studying the venue and guests with great interest. Seeing all of the people milling around and engaging each other was certainly a sight to see. They were all dressed lavishly, from women donning all manner of elaborate and formal clothing to the men wearing the finest tailored suits.Pulling out his scroll, Lelouch casually glanced at the time before tapping the device and returning it to his pocket. All his research had pointed to this event as the prime location to make introductions, to plant a seed in the social web."Lelouch!"Right on schedule.Smiling, Lelouch straightened and turned his head, greeting the individual strutting his way, Colonel Richard Turpin: an influential and notable official in the Atlas army. And as planned, General Ironwood was following shortly behind."Ah, Colonel, a pleasure to see you. It's been a long time." Lelouch greeted.Turpin let out a hearty laugh. "Much too long, you have no idea how good it is to see you alive and well." Reaching his side, he wrapped an arm around his shoulder and looked towards the general."James, let me introduce you to Captain Lelouch Lamperouge, a man who served us for some years under my direct command and showed remarkable skill and intellect."Stopping next to Turpin, the general raised his brow. Trying his best to piece his features to a memory, he came to a lack. Lelouch waited, looking expectantly.Ironwood reached his hand out. "Captain Lamperouge... I'm afraid I can't recall," he offered apologetically, which the captain responded to with a slight smile."That would be understandable, General, given the hectic situation we're currently facing. I'm sure you've had much greater priorities and worries," taking the offered hand."James, when I tell you that his young man is one of the brightest minds I have ever met, you have my word," Turpin grinned, gently punching the general. "That young blood you've been asking to find, well here he is," the older colonel smirked.A slightly surprised, yet hopeful look formed on James' features, his eyebrow quirking. "It's quite the praise you're doling out there, colonel," he smiled, reaching a hand up to adjust his tie."You recall that nasty business in Dormir village, yes?" the old colonel inquired. Upon the general's nod, his grin widened. "This young man orchestrated the plans that nipped that in the bud before it could get worse."At those words, James' eyebrows raised sharply, his mind swirling. He couldn't deny the weight of such words, and this Lamperouge seemed just the kind of young man he'd been looking to cultivate within the higher ranks."I-is that so...?" the general muttered thoughtfully. Turning towards the young man, his inquiring look was met by Lelouch's confident grin. "Very impressive," he began, a small smile forming."Indeed! Now has you know-"As the colonel droned on about his protégé's deeds in detail, the young captain kept his smile firmly in place, glad that General Ironwood seemed to be taking the bait.None of what the older officer described were even things that truly happened. Instead, Colonel Turpin had long been subjected to Lelouch's Geass, all the information regarding 'Lamperouge' planted in his mind and heavily reinforced by Lelouch himself. The old man, being under its control, genuinely believed all of it.Once done recounting the tales, the old Colonel straightened with a satisfied smile. "If you think you have any uses for his services, General, then take this young man, he'll serve the kingdom well," he offered, patting him heartily on the back once more.Nodding curtly, the general turned back to the smiling Lelouch. "So you're a strategist, is it?" Ironwood asked."One of my responsibilities under Colonel Turpin's command," he replied.Ironwood nodded, looking deep in thought.While Lelouch could easily ensnare Ironwood right now with his geass, he learned long ago to keep such a trump card for dire need."Colonel, might I have a word with this young captain?" the general inquired, turning his head slightly.Especially when his power wasn't needed yet."But of course," the colonel chuckled, pulling his arm off Lelouch, before gesturing at a passing server. "I've got an open bar to indulge in, have a good chat, General." Nodding politely at Lelouch, the colonel quickly took his leave."Have a good evening, sir," Lelouch replied. As the colonel left their company, a smirk played on the young man's lips as he turned to address the general, straightening his posture in a show of confidence and competency.The general adjusted his glove, leaning against the balcony beside Lelouch as he shot him a sidelong glance. "Captain.." he began, clearing his throat, "If what Colonel Turpin claims about you is indeed true, then son, you're exactly the sort of man I've been looking to employ. We could always use smart people in our ranks," he commented, giving him an appraising look. "Especially during these tough times."Gazing out at the people mingling below, Lelouch nodded respectfully and leaned his elbows against the balcony. "I just want to protect my home," Lelouch stated, catching the general's full attention. "It's why I joined the Atlas military in the first place." He spoke the words clearly, concisely, and with genuine feeling, eyes unfocused and still gazing upon the people of Atlas below him.The words rang true to the general, who paused and tilted his head. After a few seconds of quiet study, a small smile spread on the general's face."I couldn't agree more," he stated softly. "Especially in a time where we're so vulnerable. There's a lot I could teach you... or better said, a lot you could teach yourself."Lelouch listened patiently, not once averting his gaze from below. Ironwood chuckled and lifted himself off the balcony, stuffing a gloved hand into his pocket. "Do you play chess, captain?" he asked.Cocking his head a little to the side, Lelouch nodded. "On occasion."Manta making landfall, James stepped out into the crisp evening air, closing his scroll and sighing. "Five straight losses," he mumbled with a rueful smile. "Some teacher I am, losing to a kid like that." Shaking his head and adjusting his greatcoat, he spotted Winter Schnee approaching him."General," she acknowledged, stopping in place."How was the Gala?" she inquired politely, placing her hands behind her back."Oh you know," he shrugged, glancing towards the docked airships, "the same old pomp and glamour, high-society politicking and all. You should have come along, Winter. It would have been good for your mental health. Barring of course any trouble," he quipped, nodding in her direction.The Specialist rolled her eyes."I left that life a long time ago," she remarked curtly. "Too much... deception for my liking," her lips tugging into a thin line. "Tends to give me hives."Shooting her a look, he offered an awkward smile and rubbed the back of his neck. "Aww, and they always call me the cold one," he retorted, eliciting a dry smirk from Winter, who shifted in her boots."Either way, no signs of trouble were reported during the evening. All is well and safe, sir," she announced, back straight and hands clasped.Motioning for her to walk, he made his way towards the headquarters building. "Glad to hear." James started, entering the structure, Winter trailing after."On the contrary to appearances though, it has been a busy night," the general remarked as the two rode the elevator to the top floor, where his office lay."Regarding what?""I found a potential prodigy at the event, and in more ways than one. It's hard to imagine someone this talented and bright going unnoticed."Winter arched a questioning eyebrow, waiting.Stepping out of the elevator as the doors parted, Ironwood started down the carpeted hallway and tapped in a key code, sliding his card in front of the scanner and allowing both of them entry.Entering his office, he settled behind his desk, "Winter, get my secretary to pull up Lelouch Lamperouge's profile. Have her send the file to this console.""Made a good first impression, did he?" she inquired.Ironwood waved his hand, "This one feels... different. Maybe it's just me. I've got a gut feeling on this one."Nodding slowly, Winter cleared her throat. "Understood, Sir. I'll have a copy on your desk within minutes," she acknowledged, before leaving the general to his own devices.Letting out an appreciative grunt, Ironwood relaxed into his chair, a feeling of positivity lingering from the last couple of hours.He had a good feeling about Captain Lamperouge.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

2 months after initial arrival.

The hum of Manta engines filled the landing zone of the Mantle loading docks, as Atlesian soldiers marched and loaded cargo onto several airships. Amongst the busy dock workers and soldiers was Lelouch, staring down the scroll in his hand.With no Aura to shield him from the biting chill of Solitas, he had changed his wardrobe accordingly, adorning the standard Atlesian soldier combat gear, modified with advanced heat-insulating technology. Over the armor Lelouch wore a heavy white leathered, fur trench coat, the fabric sleek and tailored perfectly for his body type, along with an upgraded common Atlesian helmet that completely hid his appearance, installed with a secret hatch that would allow him to use his power if needed.Of course, all this was acquired with a little 'persuasion' to the branch of R&D who created the technology, making his outfit unique compared to the normal soldiers, but not one that stood out too much for unwanted suspicion.Swiping through the report sent to his device, he took note of the mission's details: an incursion by White Fang radicals near one of Atlas' many mining towns, located far to the south of Mantle.All he and his battalion needed to do was ride into town and suppress the would-be attackers. That much was child's play, as the radical group wasn't particularly strong, the attack seemingly driven by impulse and arrogance rather than any strategic value.Hearing footsteps approaching, he ignored them until they decided on when they'd make their presence known, a small power play on his part if anything."So, you're Lelouch Lamperouge?" The stranger started as she came to a stop a few feet from him.He finally glanced her way, finding the source of the interruption to be a beautiful woman with light blonde hair and violet eyes. Her attire and demeanor suggested she was a well-regarded and veteran huntress, as did the others who approached, and she held herself in a firm but unchallenging manner."Or should we call you Captain?" She continued with a curious hum, crossing her arms.Tapping his finger on the side of his scroll, he pocketed the device, taking in the woman with a slight cock of the head and a vaguely bemused smirk. He knew very well who she was and her history, having read up extensively on the top huntsmen and huntresses within Atlas, especially those who tried to change the kingdom.Robyn Hill, leader of the Happy Huntresses. An avid supporter for the betterment of all Mantle's people. He hadn't expected to be meeting with her just yet, but nothing in this life seemed to come without unexpected circumstances." Captain for now..." he answered simply, meeting the women's eyes."Well. Well," she gave a nod, a look of intrigue appearing on her face as the other two flanked her. "For now? I guess our friend here wants to rise through the ranks as quickly as possible." she glanced between the two huntresses beside her and then turned back to the captain, "Tell me, Captain, how do you plan on doing that?""...As efficiently as I possibly can."Looking mildly intrigued, Robyn hummed. "Ambitious I see. Well, congratulations on that. No easy feat when everything seems to be crashing down around us."The other two huntresses traded a look, the larger one Joanna Greenleaf, if he recalled right, gesturing her head to crates behind him and giving the signal for the faunus of the team to go look but keeping her eyes firmly on the new officer in front of Robyn.Running past Lelouch, Fiona Thyme bounded over to the crates, giving Lelouch a quick look and a cautious sniff before carrying out her teammates' request."Can't help but see you're packing a lot of supplies onto those ships over there, Captain," she observed, giving him a sharp gaze. "Big mission?""Big enough," was all he replied. "As per the regulation, I cannot divulge more beyond that."Raising an eyebrow at the casual and brief nature of the answer, she sighed. "Of course, how silly of me. Guess they've been cracking down on information sharing, huh?"Looking over his shoulder she saw Fiona opening up a crate and turning back to her team. The sheep-featured huntress's eyes went wide, "Dust! These are Dust rounds, and a lot of them too."Nodding her thanks, she turned back to Lelouch, "I've been keeping an ear to the ground, Captain; I know this is your fifth mission in two weeks, and each outing has had the same frequency of supply shipments. Supplies that could do the people of Mantle a bit more good, if you don't mind me saying," her tone turning mildly confrontational."Robyn Hill, I assure you that our efforts will ensure the safety of everyone under the control of Atlas and her territories. Even when not in battle, we soldiers do not abandon the citizens." He tried to not sound rehearsed, but his tone of practiced calmness was not lost on the huntress leader, whose eyes narrowed suspiciously."Safety, huh?" she frowned. "Yeah, a lot of folks here in Mantle would beg to differ. Especially when it seems like every other day, there's some kind of Grimm infestation, and we're supposed to sit tight, nice, and patient while the high and mighty of Atlas continue their damn social climb at a time when we're vulnerable..."A somewhat harsh, yet reasonable remark. Atlas' had its priorities. Their actions have not helped endear Mantle and their citizens to the kingdom, so to expect the lower kingdom to have trust in them was optimistic at best.Lelouch remained unchanged, simply raising an eyebrow, then tilting his head, his helm filtering the movement. "Trust me," he began coolly. "I understand your worries, Miss. Hill. However, please, don't mistake me for General Ironwood or anyone in his inner circle. I am but a simple soldier."Her demeanor cooled and softened a bit, "Even still," she sighed, looking tired in the face. "Atlas' reputation certainly hasn't done you all any favors." She didn't deny the soldier's claim. He seemed to, at the very least, appear genuine enough to hear her out and talk calmly rather than with an over-abundance of blind patriotism like many others."...Hmm. Yes." His response sounded just a tad wistful, though hidden by his helmet. It was all Robyn managed to pick up from his voice."Captain, we're ready to mobilize," came a voice to his side, causing him and Robyn to snap to. A soldier walked up to him, giving a salute, which he returned curtly. "Thank you, sergeant, I'm on my way."Turning back to the leader of the Happy Huntresses, he placed his hands on his hips. "As you've probably guessed by now, I don't have much more time left before I need to board my ship. I suppose this is our goodbye, Miss Hill. Good luck to you and the huntresses. Your support and expertise have never gone unnoticed." He took a step backward."Captain..." she trailed off as the masked officer stopped in his tracks and looked back. "You probably see Ironwood more than anyone here in Mantle. So maybe if you can... relay a message?" she asked slowly, somewhat unsure at asking such a thing from this man, despite his cordial approach towards them.His hesitation was noticeable as his gaze drifted toward the two airships hovering in place a little distance from the loading docks before he silently inclined his head.Her shoulders eased a bit."Tell him not to forget about Mantle," her jaw clenched slightly at the words.Nodding, Lelouch pivoted towards the soldier awaiting his command, walking away. As he stalked toward his transport, his hands clasped behind him, his shoulders squaring and his stride adopting a confident bearing."You think a guy like him will even bother to tell Ironwood?" Joanna grumbled, eyeing the captain and walking away."He might not," Robyn admitted as her attention slid towards her. "But, whether he will or not... something about that Captain just struck a chord. He felt... more receptive," she admitted softly, mostly to herself as she pondered what might happen. "It was... worth a shot at least. Now come on, Mary's waiting."---"Captain, enemy forces are moving through the east tunnels just like you predicted. ETA three minutes. Over," came a soldier's voice through his radio.Standing just on the outskirts of the small mining town, the young man viewed the holographic display depicting a miniature map, blue dots representing themselves, and red dots for the opposing force, moving in accordance with the orders given."Excellent P2, I want you and your team covering the north tunnel. B2 and R1 will guard the south." Lelouch started briskly, a squad standing next to him as the other soldiers moved to fulfill their orders."P5, are the charges prepped and in place as I asked?" he said into the intercom, already anticipating the confirmation."Sir, they are, Sir," P5 answered with an eagerness he could sense through the microphone."Good work, P5; once our targets are separated, fire at will. Do you copy? Over.""Loud and clear, Sir, loud and clear," P5 remarked, confirming the plan with relish.Watching the Red dots converging, it was obvious the opposing force wasn't exactly working with an efficient strategy. Still, their numbers were rather considerable, he thought as his gaze lingered, watching them navigate the narrow and confined mines."...And here we go," Lelouch muttered, fingers hovering just over the detonator as his subordinate began reporting the Red dots nearing their designated kill zones.Once a good number of red dots had passed the threshold of where his charges were buried beneath the surface, he didn't wait one second more and immediately triggered the explosives with the flick of a switch.Mine collapsing and cutting the group into two halves, panic, and surprise began running through the mob as P5 and his men leaped into action, taking aim and opening fire."B1, P6. Head toward the west tunnels and engage the other half of the group. Do not let them group back together." He ordered, glancing at his screen and nodding in satisfaction that their plan had worked perfectly."With pleasure, Cap." P6 crackled through his speaker, a blip representing the man and his team appearing just at the westernmost entry of the mines.Knowing his men were capable of cleaning things up, Lelouch stepped towards the town's square, where the town's mayor waited. He was a scrawny little man, but he stood strong as he approached Lelouch. "T-thank you for coming, Captain! That group has been harassing our town for months, it's a relief to have them taken care of."Offering a courteous nod, Lelouch responded calmly. "It's no problem, mayor. As always, we're simply doing our part for the greater good.""Yes, I but I do hope no damage was incurred to the mines!" the mayor rushed to add. "With the kingdom putting increased pressure on us regarding dust output, the last thing we need is another issue to take-""The majority of the mine tunnels have remained structurally stable despite the explosives," Lelouch assured the small-statured mayor, who sagged in relief. "Aside from a pathway that connected east and west tunnels, there should be no significant issues when the clean-up crew arrives, so the operations will carry on smoothly," he said, lowering his scroll and pocketing the device."Excellent! Perfect, it's great to know Atlas isn't shortchanging us here, not that they were," he chuckled, realizing how that probably sounded. "It's just with how these incidents and recent events are happening, makes it hard to feel secure in our productivity levels.""Right..." Lelouch turned, stopping when he noticed a figure overlooking the town from a nearby cliff. With the attire and build of someone with huntsmen experience, his gaze sharpened, focusing in on the stranger."Say..." Lelouch began, pointing at her. "Who is that?" he asked.Taking in Lelouch's interest, the mayor tilted his head slightly when nothing else caught his eye. "Uh.. I'm not sure what you mean, Captain. Could you be more specific...?" the mayor asked in confusion, glancing from Lelouch to the cliff where he was staring and then back to the mask-covered officer."That woman over..." Trailing off, he cocked his head to the side. Indeed the figure was no longer there. "I swear... I saw something. Just above that cliff, looked like a huntress standing over the edge..." Lelouch said."Hmm...Oh!" The mayor clapped his hands, shaking his head. "Might've been one of those ladies from Team BRIR. Probably wondering if we're gonna pay for their services today, hah," he gave an amused shake of his head."Team BRIR?" he echoed, snapping his attention back. He was more curious now."Yeah, they're a group of rogue Huntress huntresses who help those that need aid...for coin." The mayor nodded to himself."Mercenaries, you say?" Lelouch pressed for further information, clearly intrigued."Something of the sort, yes. If you wanna meet with them and hire 'em you're out of luck. They appear when they appear."Falling silent, Lelouch's hand lifted to his chin. There was potential in this discovery. As his men rounded up any White Fang captives and began heading to their dropships to return to base, Lelouch considered if an opportunity lay before him.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

4 months after initial arrival.

Luck.

At times it had helped his ambitions, and at others, it was simply a vague notion that had become increasingly difficult to quantify. Lelouch could never deny its existence or influence, nor could he be completely prepared to deal with it whenever it made itself known. It could swing a battle, a skirmish, or even a single moment.

While a few months of working as a high-ranking official of Atlas and utilizing the powers of his Geass has yielded him significant influence and a growing network of people who have succumbed to its power, luck could prove just the same.

Olive Harper, a promising young woman within the Atlas military, holding the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, was Lelouch's superior. She was a perfect candidate to have under his control and used to reach the pinnacle when the time was right. However, an unexpected nugget of knowledge surfaced once she was placed under his command: the woman was part of a conspiracy to boot General Ironwood from his current seat of authority and in favor of a man by the name of Bram Thornmane.

He couldn't believe his good fortune; a rebellion had all but fallen right into his lap.

One that could bear even more fruit if he played his cards right.

This led Lelouch to this very moment, standing in a dark, spacious room, with only a couple of hanging light fixtures illuminating his surroundings.

Olive stood by him, a cold expressionless gaze on her features as she held a pistol to the bleeding man on the ground in front of them, gasping for breath, the poor man having been shot and beaten.

He glanced around, noting the dead bodies of his most loyal lying all around him, staring lifelessly and blankly at him. Trying to rise from his prone position, Bram Thornmane could only slip on his pool of blood, "O-Olive...w-why..?"

"The reason is simple really." Lelouch began, his hands tucked behind his back and gaze fixed squarely upon the man. "Miss Harper has found you ill-suited to lead Atlas. And fortunately for her, I have decided to back her endeavor in deposing you."

Glaring up from his spot in a growing puddle of his blood, Thornmane trembled with barely contained anger, his lip curling, but also the glint of fear visible in his eyes, "Y-you!..." he slurred out weakly, straining his bruised body to try and lift himself. "You did something to her! You forced her to-!"

Lelouch didn't move. Not an inch, his gaze impassive through the armor of his helmet.

Thornmane tried to straighten, slipping and slouching forward before managing to sit with difficulty on his haunches. "Don't make the mistake of thinking you'll get away with this..." He warned, his glare becoming more and more murderous.

"Tsk, tsk, Mr. Thornmane, do you truly believe such pathetic threats will dissuade me?" Lelouch gave a condescending smirk under his helm.

Thornmane visibly grimaced, clutching his injured stomach and shifting. "Y-you better end this right now!" he choked out. "I'll have you and this whole-! Ah...agh." Trailing off, the former Atlas loyal slowly went quiet, and began spitting.

"Fortunately Thornmane, you still have a role to play in this sordid affair. You'll be allowed to make a real impact before your death, that much I can assure you of."

Staring at him dumbfounded, Thornmane watched as a panel on Lelouch's helmet opened.

The sight of a violet eye was all he glimpsed before a dark haze enveloped his mind as if something was snatching control of his every thought and motion, leaving him little choice in the matter.

Years of planning and preparing for the day when he would make his bid for power, all dashed in one moment. All gone in the blink of an eye.

Fort Arrowfell, for years Team BRIR had watched over the abandoned Atlas military installation, the desolate outpost nestled far out in the tundra of Solitas, hiding it well enough from easy discovery. It wasn't until several months ago that someone had trespassed the territory, stealing a handful of secret weapons and other supplies.

Unable to locate the culprit, the Keepers of Arrowfell returned to their business as normal and simply carried on doing odd missions here and there, yet remaining weary and alert of any other suspicious individuals attempting a similar heist.

So when they received the alert

that someone had tripped a warning line on the outpost's property, they wasted little time heading for the old abandoned fortification and investigating, cautiously searching the base.

As leader of Team BRIR, Bianca Prisma was a stoic and resilient individual, willing to get the job done and put anyone foolish enough to think they could beat her into the dirt. Taking no chances, she stood, twin daggers grasped at the ready, surveying the darkened hall with her teammates, Roane Ashwood, Ivy Thickety, and Ruda Tilleroot

"So... did the sensors catch who the hell set them off this time?" Roane Ashwood grumbled, keeping her wrist-mounted flame thrower ready to incinerate whoever came around the corner, hissing air angrily through the flame unit.

"The alarm only went off in the entrance chamber... so there isn't much we can go on," Ivy Thicket pointed out, as she combed her hair behind her left ear with a slender finger, and checked her Scroll for a brief second before her eyes returned to her partner's backs, whip held low and steady in a solid grip.

"Just be careful everyone. Let's not rule out that whoever set the line off might still be here..." Ruda Tilleroot uttered, adjusting the drills strapped to her right arm.

"...You're right to be cautious, ladies," a sudden voice called out, catching their collective attention. It came from directly behind them, close, making them twist on the spot.

As the women stood in a defensive formation, their eyes widened in shock at the number of Atlesian military might now blocking their path. Rifles and blasters aiming directly at them, Atlas Soldiers, Atlesian Knight-200s, and even Paladin-290s flanked the four women, far outnumbering them and all were currently preparing for engagement.

Locking eyes with the single figure in the center, Bianca narrowed her gaze suspiciously, taking notice of the sole individual seemingly directing them all.

With a smirk, the man bowed his head ever so slightly and introduced himself

"Bram Thornmane," He acknowledged. "Soon to be General of the Atlas Military..."

The women traded apprehensive glances with one another, already making sense as to where things were going.

"Now...let's all just lower our weapons, shall we?" He gestured to the team, "The four of you can't hope to overcome the overwhelming force against you, and even if you should decide to attempt such a suicidal action, not even I can guarantee you a swift death."

Rifles being cocked, and mechanical joints of Knight-200 war droids all whirred in preparation to begin their offensive.

"I take it you were the original thief then...yes?" Bianca finally asked, her team watching for the tiniest of reactions or signs from the man to clue them in how things were gonna play out.

Thornmane rolled his head in a circular motion, causing a loud cracking noise from his stiff neck. "Right in one. Yes, I've plundered a few odds and ends from this old ruin. This fort is a treasure trove, a perfect resource for a revolution."

Bianca straightened her back. "A Revolution huh... Is that what this is? An uprising against Ironwood?" She tightened her hands gripping her dagger handles.

"Do you honestly think you'll succeed?" Roane chimes in, giving Thornmane an appraising look as she places her left foot back a bit for more maneuverability,

"With the technology in this fort alone, I've got more than just a fighting chance, dear." Thornmane boasted confidently.

"We'll tough shit we aren't backing out of this!" Ivy scowled, her whip's handle trembling slightly in her grasp.

A cruel smirk formed. "Then I'm afraid this may be your last stand. Men, the order to kill remains, the target is all four of these Huntresses, take no chances."

Immediately, weapons fired, and bullets were raining down upon the team as they each rolled to a side, dashing for the cover provided by the large hall.

"Fuck this guy!" Ruda shouted as she yanked out a handful of Dust gems and smashed them into the drill mechanism of her arms, revving them to life. "Alright girls, let's teach this scum a lesson, c'mon!"

Ivy gave a light laugh. "Sounds good to me," the whip user stated. "They really underestimated us though,"

Roane gave a wry snort, a small smirk crossing her lips, her twin dreadlocked pigtails swaying a little as she leaned back, inhaled a deep breath, and triggered a burst of flame to shoot from her flamethrower, "Yep, and that was a big fucking mistake! Give 'em the ol' One, two!" she exclaimed excitedly as her flames connected with several robots, melting them.

Slashing her daggers expertly, and making sure to keep her body small as she evaded gunfire, Bianca ran circles around her team, distracting and opening up spots for the rest of them to exploit.

Ivy, meanwhile, was cracking her whip against the advancing horde of armed men and robots. Her weapon was incredibly deadly to anything caught in its range, able to dislocate joints and tear flesh effortlessly, yet she used it not like a wild weapon of blind carnage but with incredible precision. Each crack and lash was executed with surgical precision.

Ruda was practically flying down the corridor as her mechanized arms drilled and hammered and cracked her way through soldiers and robots, moving in a blitz of motion as she skillfully defended their left flank. Using her semblance to maneuver underground and coming up right through a paladin's frame, splitting it apart, she let out a loud whooping yell as her twin mechanized drills took care of her opponents, a smile etched on her face all the while.

Though with such heavy resistance, the four women realized they would need to shift strategies to cut through the relentless opposition, even for them.

"Did this guy bring the whole Atlas army with him?!" Ivy complained, already tired of having to jump around to avoid the rain of bullets, while simultaneously finding safe ground to retaliate.

Ruda burst forth from the ground next to her, bits of dust and rubble falling from her hair as she did.

"He really wants what's in this fort that bad!" Roane cried, narrowly avoiding the hot muzzle of a rifle as it passed her face. She shot forward, knocking the owner back a few steps.

"Seems like it..." Bianca muttered, vaulting over a paladin as it aimed its cannon arm at her. Leaping high, her smirk quickly vanished when a rocket spewed from the gun barrels, right at Roane.

Roane's eyes widened as she turned and dropped flat on her stomach, narrowly avoiding the blast as the shockwave sent her back, grunting and wincing as her limbs strained to recover from the blast wave.

"Roane!" Ivy shouted in concern, trying to make her way back to her ally, only for a half-dozen knights to appear between her and Roane, opening fire. "Damn it!" she swore. "Goddamn bastards!" she shouted, swiping her wrist and cracking her whip at them, but finding the horde of soldiers too much to make a breakthrough.

Landing on her feet Bianca made to rush over to Roane, as a barrage of bullets rained her way, a few skipping off her Aura. Ducking behind a pillar for safety, her breathing grew tense.

All around her, she could see her teammates struggling and pinned down by gunfire and cannon rounds. Even though it had been going relatively well, for them, a part of Bianca realized the truth.

Their current odds were not going in their favor. Not in the least.

Bianca closed her eyes momentarily, readying a breath. But just as she prepared to issue an order to her team, the words died in her throat.

From the entrance, more forces rushed into the hall, but instead of attacking her and her team, the new wave opened fire on Thornmane's loyal soldiers, stunning the four.

"WHAT IS THIS?!" The soon-to-be general shouted, seeing his loyal cronies engage the new threat that was assaulting them, taking heavy casualties as they did so.

With no idea why their opponents were turning on one another, they looked around and locked eyes with a singular figure, an Atlas official who had been the obvious leader of these additional forces. He stood strong amongst the chaos, arms behind his back and an indifferent, almost unreadable look about him as he watched his men fight against the corrupt, loyal dogs of Thornmane.

"Bram Thornmane, for treason against the kingdom of Atlas and countless other crimes," the officer's calm and impassive tone cut across the bedlam. "You are hereby under arrest..." he stated matter of fact, no sense of victory or grandstanding about him. Just pure, matter-of-fact statement.

Bianca glanced at Thornmane, who in turn stared at the soldier wide-eyed and livid, sputtering for a moment. He stumbles back, catching his bearings quickly, his anger morphing into an unsettling chuckle.

"Oh Captain, my Captain..." Thornmane laughed mirthlessly, "What a bold gambit, coming here with your forces to halt the rise of a true champion," He didn't seem that rattled or concerned about the new development, looking over the opposing forces with an intrigued expression.

"Surrounded and trapped but still brash as always," the man's voice replied smoothly but firmly. "It has only led you down an inevitable road of ruin... and the road has been littered with the dead, who paid the price for your delusions."

Shaking his head, his shoulders quaking with repressed rage and indignity, Bram glared across the battlefield landing his sights on Bianca, causing her to freeze as those eyes seemed to pierce into her.

She instinctively readied her daggers, unable to tear her eyes away, her heart dropping as she struggled to escape their hold.

"This is not over! Mark my words, Lamperouge," His harsh stare lingering on Bianca before pulling out his bow and transforming them into two daggers, "Once I've dealt with these huntresses, I'm coming for you and your precious generals!"

Charging at her with the speed of a wild animal, a guttural growl escaping from deep within him, his blades collided with hers. The sound of clashing metal rang loud in her ears. She gasped at how much force was behind the blow. Her Aura rippled around her as he pressed her with strike after strike.

Leaping backward to make space, his speed and strength became something fierce as he launched into her once again. It became increasingly difficult to defend against his slashing strikes, Bianca's footwork becoming desperate, sloppy.

The rest of Team BRIR, however, weren't able to rush in due to the situation with the hostile Atlesians. "Dammit, we've gotta help Bianca!" Ruda exclaimed, her left arm's drill blocking a strike from a Paladin's arm as Ivy tried to deflect a nearby soldier's aim.

"We can't, we're swamped! Hang in there, Bianca!!"

Thornmane didn't let up. If anything, his attacks were increasing. Not by much, but it felt that way for Bianca. His aggression and speed were ferocious, almost mindless in their efforts, pushing her. She couldn't manage to fend off or turn aside every strike, as his blows chipped her Aura, bringing her down a hair closer and closer to breaking her limits.

Throwing a despite strike to gain some distance, Bianca grimaced as Thornmanre easily ducked and delivered a hard kick that sent her flying a fair distance before slamming against a nearby pillar.

"OOMPHF!" her voice gusted out from the sudden attack. Bianca's aura shattered as she felt pain racking her spine and ribs.

Spitting out some blood, her breathing labored as she lay dazed, unable to pull herself up for some time as the fighting in the hall reached a fever pitch.

Her sight landed upon Thornmane, who, with a murderous glint, connected his daggers back together, transforming his weapon back into his bow.

Aiming for Bianca's exposed form as she lay crumpled, his lips formed into a cruel smirk before he pulled back the arrow, orange-red energy forming along it, charged, and prepared to unleash the killing shot.

Time seemed to slow for the members of Team BRIR, each member locking eyes with the arrow as it zoomed towards their downed ally.

There was nothing they could do, no time to try and reach her or even use their Semblances.

They knew they'd be too late.

The red rings around his eyes around Thornmane's eyes pulsed as he roared with wild laughter, just as the arrow shot forward towards his prey, closing in rapidly, the intent behind the attack being made clear.

Hours before the attack.

Lelouch gazed upon what little information of Team BRIR he had been able to collect over the past few weeks.

Thornmane was at least able.to discern that the team had ties to a forgotten relic named Fort Arrowfell. An abandoned Atlas outpost in the tundra of Solitas far, far away from any town or settlement.

Resources, weapons, even robotics... everything one would need for an army if supplied to the right hand was located and stored in that old fort, and this would be enough to build a strong foundation for the future.

Smiling, Lelouch looked up to where a mind-controlled Thornmane was sitting patiently and obediently at his side, ready to execute his orders on a moment's notice, "Once my forces engage yours inside the fortress, you're to personally engage the nearest member of Team BRIR that you can," He ordered the man, who gave a respectful nod.

"I won't disappoint you, Captain," his hollow-sounding response echoed.

Standing tall, Lelouch clasped his hands behind his back. "Once her aura breaks, aim to kill," he commanded, turning to the glass pane window of the office he had claimed.

As if to himself alone, the Captain continued quietly, "I'll handle the rest." his violet eyes shining in the low light of the room.

Arrow nearing its mark, Bianca could only lift her arms defensively in front of her, making the faintest of noises, while the rest of BRIR stared on helplessly.

A wet splatter sounded above Bianca, the sensation of warm wet drops falling onto wrapped arms and bare hands.

She tentatively opened one eye, then the other to find the captain of the Atlesian soldiers looming directly over her, having taken the shot himself to protect her, the arrow penetrating having penetration his abdomen.

"...Y-you... W-Why?..." was all Bianca could utter, at a loss for words.

Tensing for a few moments, Lelouch relaxed, exhaling softly in mild relief, as his filtered voice reached out. "I'm a soldier of Atlas... it's my duty... to see to it our citizens are protected and served,"

She furrowed her brow in confusion and bewilderment, "But..."

The captain shifted slowly, groaning and giving the wound a slight grimace. "...To accomplish that duty, I'd protect anyone, no matter where they're born... or who they're associated with," He said with a twinge of wistful finality, the sentiment clearly one deeply rooted within him.

With the Captain still pinning Bianca, Thornmane glared, seething that his mark was still breathing. Readying his aim once more, his face morphed into a mask of fury.

"You bastard I-!" He was abruptly interrupted when a booted foot crashed into his side, smashing the would-be revolutionary and sending him careening.

Barely managing to catch himself as he rolled to a stop, a group of Lelouch's men tackled the rebel, binding him and restraining him to prevent him from continuing.

Looking past the captain, Bianca watched as the last of Thornmane's forces were either captured or killed, a grim look crossing her features as Thornmane stared daggers at Captain Lamperouge. Exposed. Weak. A beaten man now.

A yelp suddenly left her when Lamperouge slumped on her, no longer capable of staying on his feet anymore and using her to support his weight.

"Oh my...!" the Huntress exclaimed. "Easy there big guy!"

He coughed, looking to Bianca who finally managed to sit up, propping herself against a fallen pillar, her hands holding his frame.

"Bianca! You okay there?" Ruda called as she and the others jogged up, concerned etched all over their faces.

"Yeah, I'm... fine," Bianca sighed in relief.

Ivy helped her get Lelouch up as Ruda supported the taller man's weight, "Good to hear," Ivy told Bianca with a smile before hugging her teammate, relieved that everyone was ok.

Roane quickly joined the hug, crying in both joy and worry, the relief that the Huntress had escaped any lethal injury.

Not to be left out, Ruda pawned off Lelouch to two other Atlesian troops before rushing over and jumping into the pile, embracing Bianca and the others tightly, causing some light giggles and muffled protests to slip out.

Rising to his feet slowly and making sure to not exert too much stress on his abdomen, Lelouch eyed the group of women before glancing over to his soldiers as his forces Soldiers hauled Thornmane away.

A cough from one of the huntresses had him looking back, noting that the four had regained their footing and had been watching him quietly.

"...Lamperouge, is it?" Bianca queried. "That's the name Thornmane mentioned," she expanded. "I take it you're quite the important figure, coming here and pulling the wool off his followers..."

"Indeed, Miss..." He paused expectantly.

"Prisma," she said.

He gave her a slow, firm nod, "Indeed. I am Captain Lamperouge." his eye glistened beneath his helmet, gripping the wound around his lower abdomen. "I had recently stumbled upon Mr. Thornmane's ambitions while doing my rounds, I had intended to notify my superiors.

Unfortunately, before I could, he and his conspirators began making their moves,"

"Which is how all this started," Ivy interjected.

The officer nodded. "After learning his true intentions, I gathered what forces I had and... moved accordingly."

Looking around at his men now swarming the area, cleaning up the bodies and injured, and recovering supplies and gear from both sides, "Our apologies for not getting here sooner, you girls should not have to suffer that attack by yourselves." he bowed.

Sharing glances with her team, Bianca kept a hard expression, "You came in the end, Captain. You... saved me..."

"Yeah, Bianca would have been toast... hell we could have ended up dead, too. Just saying." Roane stated softly, while the others remained quiet, their expressions a little somber.

"Mm." a neutral grunt, he swayed slightly and, took note of their uneasy silence, seeming to hesitate about saying something.

Seeing them staring expectantly, Lelouch breathed out softly. "Despite living to see another day you four don't seem like a happy lot," he observed.

Bianca laughed, the sound not a heartfelt laugh, but something empty. A chortle lacking in true feeling.

"Well, we've watched after this fort for years, it's become home and..." she glanced at her fellow teammates, the unspoken sentiment and words lingering in the air between them. "Now that you know about this fort's worth to the kingdom of Atlas..." Her voice softened, wavering faintly, though Lelouch's gaze could make out a hint of pleading in her gaze.

She wanted to voice it, the question of what would be done now with the outpost, her home, and the rest of her team sharing the same sentiments as her. Their gazes uncertain, but worried.

"...That all of this will go... into the wrong hands?" He surmised, guessing what they were thinking.

The atmosphere changed, the members of BRIR remaining stoic and quiet as Lelouch kept his gaze fixed upon them, not speaking a single word, nor making a gesture.

They were concerned about the fallout to come after his report and the dangers and threats they might face once the decision came down. After all, they had essentially been keeping the contents of the Fort as their secret and unknown to Atlas and Ironwood for so long. Who knew what his reaction to learning what they had held back would be?

Lelouch did not provide any clues on his thinking, no thoughts or words, and not a single breath passed through the vents of his visor.

Eventually, he exhaled sharply, the girls all trading concerned looks, wondering what this officer would say.

"Then perhaps a deal can be struck?"

"A deal?"

"But you are the Captain of the-?" Bianca questioned.

"I am aware," The young man said calmly, taking a couple of steps forward. "However... I want nothing more than to live a life of peace. That dream has always been my intention..." The Huntresses listened intently, surprise flickering through their gaze.

"Such a thing doesn't exist now," He sighed. "To achieve that in this world will require... effort." he closed his eyes, almost seemingly exhausted at the mention, yet they could sense no ill intent. Only a weary undertone that was present.

"Then..." Bianca stared, cautiously voicing out, "What is the deal that you're proposing, Captain?"

"In a world where Grimm are an omnipresent threat... and few people can call their home safe," His fists clenched, his armor creaked as he tensed briefly, taking a long moment before continuing.

"The governments of this world have failed in that regard,"

Stunned silence met that declaration from the young officer, his words like bombs dropped by some god, shattering the peace among the Huntresses.

"I seek to change that. To carve my own peace within the new world I'm building." his voice turned softer and the resolve apparent.

"Then..." the leader of the Team repeated, looking the man up and down, scrutinizing every inch. "You're looking for soldiers?"

He shook his head, "No. I seek compatriots. Allies. Individuals with skill, talent, and most importantly: the desire to see this world brought out of darkness."

They collectively leaned back a little.

"In your case, you all seem capable... and have also displayed great prowess."

He folded his arms, not quite wincing in the process.

"To make it brief. I wish for your assistance and cooperation, should you accept... the pay and treatment will not be lacking,"

"Not lacking?" Ivy cocked an eyebrow, the intrigue of his offer weighing in heavy on all their thoughts.

"While I'd prefer you join me out of the belief we could make the world a better place... If monetary means are the only factor in deciding your cooperation..."

They jumped when a couple of cases full of Lien were dropped at Lelouch's feet, causing the girl to widen their eyes as it registered that Lelouch must have gotten word in advance that they did a lot of mercenary work.

"Girls... W-What should we...?" Ivy stuttered, stunned at the sudden offer laid before them.

Looking to her right to see her friends, Bianca's features remained rigid, the emotion hidden beneath as her brows creased and lips pressed tightly together. She eyed each woman, searching her gaze as well as their body language as if seeking the final answer amongst their stony silence.

"....Captain Lamperouge," Lelouch's stance shifted to stand straight once more, despite the injury. His masked helmet kept his face from being exposed.

"...How can we know that you won't turn on us in the end, the moment you feel like it?" Bianca pressed forth in a firm tone.

"You don't," His answer had them taken aback by the frank admission, "Misdirection and mistrust are the most powerful weapons this world has. It is impossible to know for sure when a friend can become your enemy." He tapped his helmet the latches clinking faintly at the contact.

"I can only give you my words as evidence. Though in the end, words can often be cheap and easily fall apart," he let out a small huff that could almost be a small chuckle if not for the audible hint of sorrow in the noise.

Removing his helmet, he revealed the face and eyes of an exceedingly youthful and somewhat attractive man.

"But I like to think my actions today show a lot as to the validity of my intentions,"

He waited, violet-colored irises showing a sincere look to the girls.

"...You got balls, Captain..." Ivy remarked with some admiration, smirking wryly.

Roane let out a snort, Ruda laughing at that and shaking her head. "Yeah, no kiddin'!"

Bianca simply eyed him critically, studying him up close with no mask or helmet in the way. "Hmm,"

Sticking out his bloody hand that covered his wound, Lelouch awaited the decision of the woman.

"I should warn you, this path if chosen, is likely going to be fraught with struggle and trouble. There will be those that question us." He spoke the words carefully.

"That we can handle!" Roane insisted quickly, a hint of apprehensiveness laced in her voice. "Right guys?" she glanced around at her teammates who agreed and showed they had confidence in their abilities.

"Blood may very well be spilled... and lives... may even be taken." Lelouch continued regardless.

He would need to make sure his new partners were fully aware of what was entailed, unwilling to be given half-commitment by people who might feel tempted to betray him when it got to a point where they were uncomfortable.

Bianca pursed her lips, considering her words. Her eyes gazing his bloody hand, her mind made up after a moment.

Looking at her team once more, they met her gaze, not a single doubt visible to each other, and nodded in acceptance.

Stepping forth, Bianca grabbed onto the Lelouch's outstretched hand, giving a firm shake and sealing her team's decision to walk alongside him.

"Guess it's settled, we've signed ourselves on to whatever it is you got planned," Bianca said with a reserved expression, still unsure, but they were going with it, accepting what they had, that was all there was to it now.

Nodding with acceptance of their choice, Lelouch simply stated, "I thank you..."

A faint grin appeared across Lelouch's handsome face, Bianca tilting her head back, finally drank in the deep violet hue that made up his iris, making him even more peculiar and striking.

"From now on, you can refer to me by my first name, should you so wish..." Lelouch murmured. "Or Captain, although that title may not last long..." he added absently and looked back over his shoulder at his troops.

"...What's that mean, Captain Lelouch?" Ivy wondered aloud, causing Lelouch to shrug lightly.

"People tend to get rewarded when they stop an insurrection or bring an influential figure down from the shadows..." he explained nonchalantly, turning his body away from her.

"I'll return at a later time; when I do, I'd like to know what's so important about this fort and its secrets," He added.

As his helmet was put back on, the seal tightening and ensuring he was safe within, he limped towards the exit of the fortress, his troops ready with transport vehicles and a medical squad to deal with his wounds.

Watching him depart, Team BRIR's spirits began to feel uplifted from earlier; having avoided certain death today and also had the opportunity to look forward to a brighter future, Bianca smiled at the possibility of not just making the world safer but working towards a brighter one too.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

6 months after initial arrival.

"Well, it's another beautiful day here in Atlas, but I'm sure many of us are still on high alert ever since the announcement that several high-level government and military officials were caught consorting and plotting against the kingdom's forces, a terrible, dastardly incident that had resulted in several..."
As the anchor's words carried on from the TV, Lelouch, and General Ironwood briskly walked the halls of Atlas Academy, the general still deep in his musings, though his attentions had shifted to Lelouch during their walk. "I can't stress it enough Lelouch." He continued. "Your actions these past few months have proven invaluable for us, especially in keeping our ranks pure; without your actions, we might have even faced the whole Kingdom turning on itself, starting a civil war... We... I'm forever grateful." He praised Lelouch again.Giving a nod in agreement to the general's praise, his attention remained unshakeable as they neared the entrance to Ironwood's office, "I was only carrying out my duties, General, " He refuted."But in doing so, you've prevented disaster. Of the worst kind imaginable." James responded firmly.He did. Lelouch knew this; the web of people who had pledged allegiance to Thornmane, plotting against Ironwood and planning for an outright revolt and revolution against him was nothing short of surprising. From high-ranking members of the military to civilian officials who would serve to instigate the masses into a state of violent conflict and unrest.Lelouch had turned most of these people over to Ironwood. However, Lelouch did keep those he deemed important and useful to himself, erasing any traces of their part in the conspiracy. These individuals were sent to Fort Arrowfell and under his control, working tirelessly to fulfill his plans and goals.His operations remained unseen and unnoticed, and thanks to being promoted to the rank of Colonel by Ironwood for his actions, his influence and presence within the hierarchy were steadily increasing by the day."I'm only trying to serve my Kingdom, sir," Lelouch added, coming to a stop in front of the General's office.Smiling, Ironwood clapped his hands on Lelouch's shoulder, eliciting an acknowledgment and understanding nod."I know. That's why you were chosen," His grin remained bright as Lelouch managed to give a sheepish expression, one more modest than anything else he usually bore, the underlying tone of that comment almost like an invisible finger pointing directly to him. A subtle gesture meant for him alone."Sir?""Lamperouge... You've shown me you're capable and can be trusted." The taller man paused, waiting and letting Lelouch hang on his next few words as he opened his office's doors, where Winter Schnee and the Ace Ops stood waiting patiently."Because of that, there are a few... delicate matters I'd like to inform you of. Matters that only the people in this room should ever be aware of."He entered first, with Lelouch cautiously following right behind him."As Colonel, I want you still stationed in Mantle."Cocking an eyebrow, the younger man could already sense something about to happen, a situation that might require his unique talents, a game changer, a development of some sort. "Go on...?""You'll be in charge now and I need my best officers to make sure the entire Kingdom is secure. Do you understand, Lamperouge, in the weeks to come Mantle will be especially crucial..."Narrowing his gaze, the other men and women inside watched carefully and warily. Even Winter was curious as she glanced at Lelouch, tilting her head ever so slightly as the new colonel mulled over the order.Lelouch stood attentively, the sounds of the door closing the only audible sound that came through the tension of the moment.Winter folded her arms, "What we're about to tell you here, cannot and will not leave this room. You will not inform anyone else of the contents, do you understand?" she added a subtle command, one which the young colonel complied with, nodding his head stiffly to signal he was with the rest.Looking to Winter then at Clover who stood in line with the rest of the Ace Ops, Ironwood straightened his back, a more grim and dire air coming over his features. "Lelouch, what do you know about the Grimm."Walking through the Atlas' base on Mantle, Lelouch narrowed his eyes behind his mask as he continued onward. Team BRIR trailed behind him, looks of discomfort on each of their features, while Ironwood had made it clear not to inform anyone of the details he had shared with Lelouch that morning.Team BRIR had become vital to his plans. His 'personal' elite guard, in a way. Not an official part of the Atlas military, instead seen as a group of mercenaries brought in but still recognized and accepted due to Lelouch having the necessary influence.And so the former emperor had told them everything he had learned.About the Relics, the Maiden's Ironwoods plans for the Amity Colosseum, and the existence of Salem herself.The revelations for Lelouch weren't that much of a surprise, given that since he's awoken in this world, he'd been thrown curveballs on an almost daily basis.For the girls, however, they were certainly shaken and wary; many of their worldviews were broken down and dismantled in the wake of learning the full story.He knew they would have concerns about all of this. But it would have to wait until they moved away from any eavesdroppers; while many who were stationed on this base served Lelouch either through Geass or pure loyalty, many troops filtered through Mantle in its day-to-day business, and someone might just hear or see something they weren't meant to.Stepping in sync, their steps halted only briefly before entering his designated headquarters.Maneuvering to a bookcase, Lelouch tapped the nearby shelf, and suddenly a hidden elevator entrance shifted outward, exposing the interior.An extra boon that was acquired when Team BRIR joined him was the knowledge of the Crystal Nexus, an elaborate tunnel system under the continent of Solitas; they explained it was built in the kingdom in the days of its prime, abandoned long ago, forgotten but for a select few.The ability to move resources and troops secretly from one place to the next in an instant proved critical.For years, Team BRIR would make use of it, escaping and avoiding Atlas troops by knowing the layout and finding passages to secret exits to make their escapes; the passageways hadn't just helped the Keepers stay free from capture but had also kept them far, far, away from Grimm.Traveling through the depths of Solitas, Lelouch decided now was a good time to squash any doubts the girls might have, any unease, so he could focus his mind on moving forward from here, building and planning for a better future."We've all learned a great many things these past few hours." he broke the ice as they journeyed."This was certainly a revelation..." Bianca trailed off softly, staring pensively into the distance, the burden and knowledge weighing on her mind.Ivy hung her head and grumbled, "Shit man, that's one way to start the day! The Grimm are led by a Queen, of all things?! And this 'Salem' is- is..." she clenched and unclenched her hands.“Real...?" Roane ventured hesitantly, earning a slow nod from Ivy who threw her head back, flabbergasted."Don't forget about the magic and all the Maidens!" Ruda huffed, shaking her head, while they descended in silence after her remark, an unsettled silence now clinging over them.Lelouch examined his followers' expressions. The usual looks of determination had faded and were replaced by a distraught fear. Their brows creased, eyes shifting anxiously between the cavern walls and themselves.Despite the palpable discomfort in their collective aura, his mind was mostly focused on what lay at the end of the road. His mind running, spinning the details the general had shared, the details that could change or improve many plans he already had in motion or developing."New variables have been introduced that must be taken into account... Some adjustments will be made on how things move along." His voice rang out, "However, your apprehension is understandable; I must know, my huntresses, are you still with me?" He questioned, focusing his masked stare on each member of BRIR.Bianca shook off the tension as her expression hardened, eyes returning with some strength. Her lips pursed as her voice answered with affirmation. "We will stand by you, Colonel," she promised.Her teammates took their cue from their leader's firm, unwavering words and did their best to push past the troubling revelation that they had all heard today, inhaling and exhaling deeply, mentally preparing themselves as well, whatever doubts were already swiftly diminishing with their trust for Lelouch. Despite how unsettling it was, they were committed and would stand by him.Nodding his thanks, the group came to a halt after some time, finally reaching Fort Arrowfell via the underground network of tunnels, their new base of operations, and home to a variety of individuals loyal to Lelouch's cause."...I don't intend for us to fight in some losing battle," Lelouch began, confidently walking past a row of Atlesian knights that snapped to attention when they recognized his form. "All my preparations leading up to this will not be for nothing."The fort was a testament to Lelouch's drive for victory; once a glorified forgotten treasure from Atlas' heyday, it was now a buzz of activity with his people, constantly fortifying and improving the old abandoned defenses of the outpost.The greatest effort had been towards making an advanced logistics center. Built deep into the fortress, it housed all kinds of electronics, computers, and equipment. Every individual, from scientists to engineers and technical experts, all toiling over the blueprints, designs, and specs from an abundance of projects that had been established, working day and night tirelessly and meticulously towards their goals, tasks, or specific research.Lelouch would see them all work diligently under him and would keep watch over their work.Soldiers and a few huntsmen saluted the Colonel, the young leader returning the gesture with a respectful tilt of his helmet. The group entered the command center, where Lelouch was immediately approached by a scientist with a report, looking tense but hopeful, clutching onto the tablet as he paced to the front of Lelouch, who simply waited for the man to speak."Ahh, Sir... the news is rather good," the older man, began with a proud smirk. "We have a report concerning our main project," he declared excitedly."Dr. Ferric, I take it you've made a breakthrough?" Lelouch inquired, already guessing from the expression the scientist had been attempting to suppress.Said doctor nodded his head. "We're currently doing the first live trial run," he informed, shifting his stance a little with anticipation and anxiety. "But it's thanks to our predecessors that we were able to achieve such progress in developing these Negative Orbs."Turning his attention to Team BRIR the doctor graciously bowed his head, "I can't thank you enough, ladies...if you hadn't watched over this place and guarded it so tirelessly..." he trailed off, wiping away some sweat from his forehead,Bianca laughed lightheartedly. "We only did what was natural. If anyone, we need to give credit to Lelouch... after all, it's his plan that put us all here in the first place," She elbowed the officer with a wry grin.Rubbing at his arm where the jab impacted, Lelouch shifted the topic. "What of those design schematics I sent you two weeks prior, have the blueprints been implemented?"The aged scientist perked up and nodded, a beaming smile spreading across his face. "Yes! As a matter of fact, it's performing better than projected, and the speed of production has been exponentially greater. Using the Paladins as a base should have been considered much sooner. These...ugh, Knightmares as you've dubbed them, will be far superior compared to anything in the Atlesian armory!" Dr. Ferric's excitement and passion could be felt throughout the room, Lelouch merely nodding his approval, pleased with the answer."Excellent. Do your best to expedite the construction lines. We're going to need an entire division ready at my command by the time preparations are complete." he ordered before waving the scientist off, Dr. Ferric not protesting as he scampered off to resume his work."Well things are moving fast now, eh girls," Bianca mused, leaning against the map table and crossing her arms over her chest.Ivy walked around it, curiously looking down at the various pins and models. "It's almost hard to believe that two months ago it was us five making the plans in here," Ivy recalled, getting lost in thought while rubbing her chin."Didn't expect to be dealing with all this super secret stuff that could be planet changing, if used right" Ruda commented, studying the small replica of a Paladin in her hands before tossing it back onto the table, and kicking back into her seat, arms stretching behind her head as her boot-clad legs crossed over themselves.Roane simply chuckled, "Mm, not that we're complaining. There's plenty of action and a challenge to keep things interesting,"Smirking beneath his mask, Lelouch strolled towards the holo-map, inserting his scroll. He used the device to project an image of Mantle, various colors and details shading the buildings, indicating roads, streets, districts, and all the key parts and landmarks highlighted.The Team gathered closer, eager to get a look at whatever Lelouch wanted to show them."Mantle has been given to me as my territory," Lelouch opened, his fingers pinching and tapping, displaying more data."Therefore, all military, police, and facilities are under my jurisdiction; General Ironwood has seen to that." Lelouch proceeded, pointing at Mantle's power grids and water systems."Over the next few weeks, I plan to overhaul the city's infrastructure, along with its current security and systems, a fresh start."Ruda spun in her swivel chair, cocking a brow at his intentions. "Mantle's not the crown jewel, a slum to be honest.""For now..." his low response had Bianca raising a brow."I completely understand why Ironwood and those up in power have focused on Atlas' needs above Mantle for so long. As you stated, Mantle is the city with the biggest problems: Faunus-discrimination, crime rates, poverty," Lelouch explained, removing his helmet and placing it on the nearby console while he breathed out and continued."However, this has created a perfect opening for us," he swept a hand over the city's center, his grin widening. "So long as Mantle suffers, its people, like any human with consciousness, desire an improvement to their condition. In time, a thirst for reform would spark... and the very people themselves will demand change.""So we'll be the heroes?" Ruda summed up the situation, rocking herself and using her feet, pivoting.Bianca crossed her arms. "You're intending on becoming the beacon that everyone is drawn to? The hope?...Doing what the elite of Atlas haven't even dared to attempt?""Indeed," the former emperor looked to Bianca. "I'm here to be the solution," Lelouch uttered with confidence, as Bianca locked eyes with him, her lips curving to mirror his.Roane straightened up. "Whoa, man, how though? That's a lot to handle...""Yeah, the cash needed to revamp Mantle to the point where it's even a tiny percentage of Atlas will require millions," Ivy frowned a bit, unsure of where to start.Lelouch clicked the scroll, closing the projection of Mantle. "I believe I know just the person who may have that kind of money, who is both willing and connected to make things happen." his amused tone had Bianca and the rest of Team BRIR become silent,contemplating just who exactly was able to afford and pull that many strings.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

6 months after initial arrival.
A convoy of Atlesian armored trucks rolled through the streets of Mantle as night set in, groups of displeased citizens watched and threw various crude words, making hand gestures of disrespect at the group. One agitated member of the audience even threw a tomato at the window to the right side of the middle truck.Within the passenger area of the central vehicle, the offending fruit hit the glass before exploding into bits that spattered and splashed all over.Ignoring the roadside remarks, Lelouch focused his scroll displaying a video feed, a recording of the fall of Beacon, studying the actions of the woman within the video with intent.Cinder Fall. The Fall maiden.An obstacle he'd one day need to contend with, though magic like what she had was something he had yet to encounter or fully comprehend the significance of, given how its users were seemingly capable of immense feats and abilities. It would surely provide a unique challenge when the time would come for the inevitable clash.Another fruit found itself hitting the window beside him, only adding to the growing mess, Team BRIR frowned, the red stain streaking the clean glass."Oh c'mon..." Ruda growled in dismay. "People always get hostile when you just drive into their neighborhoods..."Bianca scoffed, crossing her legs while not removing her gaze from the crowds of disgruntled citizens. "To be fair, Atlas has a habit of never bringing good things whenever they come."The sound of multiple splats indicated that the convoy must have drawn another few dozen angry protesters to stop and fling whatever waste they had nearby.Lelouch kept his eyes on the feed, taking note of key events and players as they interacted and engaged one another during Beacon's fall, "You're not very much liked here, are you, Jacques Schnee?" He commented with a tone of mild surprise, setting aside his scroll and glancing at the man who sat in between Ivy and Roane, his expression not looking pleased in the slightest to find himself in the middle of Mantle.Flinching from another barrage, the white-mustached man in the luxury, Atlesian suit coughed, not keen on the attention they were currently drawing with their presence. "I assure you the feeling is mutual, colonel." his nasally, snotty-sounding tone had Lelouch smiling behind his mask.Ruda shifted in her seat, looking annoyed with the pompous rich man sitting across her, her arms folding and lips forming a snarl, her irritation clear."I'm only here on business. Now that it's done, the quicker we're out of this wretched place the better..." the businessman replied disdainfully.Lelouch sat back in his seat as he gestured out to the outside. "Yes, Ironwood's border lockdown certainly hasn't helped matters, has it?"His icy gaze met Lelouch's, his annoyance seething. "No... It most certainly hasn't," he said sharply. "Atlas has been nothing short of stifling and cruel to both those within Mantle's walls and its enterprises," the CEO huffed.Chuckling through his voice filter, the officer shook his head slightly. "Ahh yes, the poor Schnee Dust Company... forced to uphold the trade embargoes. Such a horribly, unfair fate for you," he drawled mockingly.Jacques' nostrils flared as his brows knitted together, gritting his teeth before making sure to settle his breath before continuing. "This is serious... do you have any idea how much money the general's actions have cost me?!" his loud protestation caused Bianca to roll her eyes, Lelouch hearing a faint "boohoo" escape her lips."Of course, I apologize for making little of a matter that is, no doubt, quite a weight on your shoulders." the sincerity in Lelouch's tone caught Jacques off guard as the young officer folded his hands across his lap. "Actually, part of why I chose to accompany you today was to discuss exactly that. In these troubling, chaotic times, it is all the more important to protect what we hold dear."Frowning, Jacques did not respond, his ire beginning to soften and melt away, as Lelouch paused, taking a moment to gaze out the windows to see the still-gathering protestors and picketers, watching them with care. "...Which is why I ask that the Schnee family consider making an investment into Mantle."An expression of shock painted his features."Wh-W-What?!" He exclaimed. “Invest? No! It is a terrible, reckless business proposal; I have the responsibility to my shareholders and the duties to my company, not Mantle's! It isn't my money that can solve any of their problems; the Atlesian military does more than enough, and I see no reason to..." he ranted and blustered, only stopping once he noted Lelouch's hand rising in the air, signaling for him to stop talking."Perhaps Mantle was the wrong word, maybe I should have been more specific and called it an investment into my ventures..." the leader clarified, meeting his glare without a hint of uncertainty."...What are you saying?" Jacques demanded, leaning forward, while Lelouch chuckled behind his helmet."The election for a seat on the Atlas council will soon approach. As it is, I've heard rumblings that you intend on pursuing that seat," The former emperor disclosed."P-Perhaps," Jacques brushed him off."I suggest you throw out those thoughts and put that money, and effort, elsewhere,"Ruda grinned as Lelouch rested his gloved hands behind his head, the relaxed demeanor becoming the first indicator that there was more on the colonel's mind than simply a proposal. "How, dare-!"Lelouch continued before Jacques could further begin, not batting an eye at the rich man's rising indignance."Bet on a winning horse, Mr. Schnee," his cryptic phrasing was not missed by the business mogul, his eyebrow perked curiously as the sounds of people on the outside gradually dissipated as the convoy's ride finally slowed, the vehicles approaching their destination: the Atlesian military Headquarters in Mantle."In all of Atlas, your resources outshine any other conglomerate, be it government or private; even without the backing of your company, you, yourself, are a figure of high regard. However, a woman like Robyn Hill, with her popularity and influence here in Mantle," he mentioned with some caution, carefully surveying the face of the other man for reactions as he was talking."A people's champion... A revolutionary of sorts, with a reputation that has been enhanced since the border closure. Her support has been growing by the day, and should her popularity increase anymore, who could say someone like you, the head of the very family known for its exploitation of Faunus, might lose in an election against her."With that remark, Lelouch noticed Jacques stiffen ever so slightly, a scowl working its way up his face at the mere thought of Robyn Hill beating him in a popularity contest. He scoffed dismissively, the scoff barely hiding a growl that followed."The voting public does have certain proclivities towards revolutionaries and such," He surmised quietly.Nodding, the colonel pushed forth, knowing he had the man's full attention. "Which is why, I am the most qualified for such an issue,""You, Colonel Lamperouge?""Yes. I can stand toe to toe and contend with Miss Hill in the election," He sounded assured as Jacques processed his claims."Such bold claims..." Jacques' cynical stare lingered on the officer. "Especially from a young man like yourself. While, despite having recently become the talk of the kingdom for bringing down Thornmane and his followers..." the mention had Roane glance at the masked man, Bianca's brows narrowing at the comment. "How can I know that this will all go smoothly in a few months," He pointed out.Lelouch gestured to the smeared glass to the side of the SDC man. "I assure you this display by Mantle's people wasn't because I had something to do with the city's woes... their problem is the problem that you, the council, and General Ironwood have left them with and many others...""Regardless..." the head of the Schnee household leaned back in his seat. "As amusing as it would be for the boy-wonder of Atlas to represent Mantle, why should I even bother?""In helping me obtain the seat... I will repay the favor by turning around the Schnee's reputation and, of course, helping you repair your finances after this..."Taking in a deep breath, a low, but audible groan escaped the Atlesian."...What kind of investment are you seeking." he relented.Ivy glanced at her superior officer, wondering how much money would be required."Mantle is in a sorry state of affairs; one could even call it pathetic... its poverty is something that needs rectifying, having the city's people see me and, by extension, your company as saviors... rebuilding homes, schools, neighborhoods, businesses." Lelouch began, already visualizing the number crunching. "Filling up the abandoned factories and buildings... bringing in new jobs and opportunities..."Jacques scoffed. "Sure, let's bring an end to the crime that's endemic to Mantle's culture, too!""You've read my mind," The young colonel smiled, a sly tone slipping through. "Reform and change should be paramount to all the works, after all..."The SDC head's brows furrowed further, his complexion turning rather pale. "It's an impossible goal you want to chase after, no politician has ever attempted... it's...""I'm a man of miracles and can do the impossible," the confident statement, no, declaration caught Jacques in full surprise.Crossing his arms the Schnee closed his eyes as if in silent contemplation. Having a colonel like Lelouch be indebted and tied to his family's future was enticing to him. Having someone in the general's good favor under his thumb was a bonus that he wouldn't give up. Especially as Ironwood's decisions these days were increasingly making Jacques wonder where exactly the general's allegiances lie...But the money to be put into this project would be monumental, given the current conditions of Mantle. And the results? If accomplished, the profits and dividends it would return were enough to make his company and personal assets shine brightly in the night. The good fortune he'd gain from these deeds... the image he and the family would acquire, how could anyone ignore?All of it would put him miles ahead of the competition, both at home and beyond, giving him a definite advantage.Could Lelouch pull through on such grand promises?If so, the risk could be more than justified."A tall order," The businessman murmured, opening his eyes and staring intently into the masked visage of Lelouch. "A high reward though..." he smiled, giving a thoughtful hum. "It does have a... rather large upside..."Lelouch offered a hand, not wavering or backing down. "Then you accept?"A tense, weighted moment passed as Jacques observed the man, having to decide how big to bet. "Your investments must pay off, I hope you realize..."Reaching across, Jacques Schnee finally seized the hand of his masked collaborator."Oh, don't worry," Lelouch promised, grasping back, firmly holding the man's palm. "You'll see my end of the bargain fulfilled," the certainty, no, absolute confidence in Lelouch's voice that spoke through his helm had the rest of Team BRIR trading glances amongst themselves and the wealthy Atlesian, unsure, but intrigued on whether Lelouch truly believed or knew, that whatever it was he promised to do, he could carry out the task with no hiccups and full assurance.Opening the door, Ivy slides out to allow Jacques the space to exit, the well-dressed businessman making his appearance on the tarmac of Mantle's base."Jacques." The colonel called after him, pausing the businessman and making him spin on a heel to glare questioningly at the masked officer. "Let's keep this meeting off record and between us, shall we?"The man's features curled, a nasty little grin stretching across his face. "Hmph, don't worry Lamperouge," Jacques added with a disdainful grin. "We understand each other."Dismissively, the businessman spun around, casually making his way to the Manta dropship that awaited to bring him back to the skies above.Observing the receding form of their associate, Ruda groaned audibly, pinching the bridge of her nose and letting out a sharp huff. "Is this guy really our ally now..." she grunted out, closing her eyes."Slime ball, greedy, pretentious, pompous, and just all kinds of bastard," Bianca muttered.Roane grimaced, shaking her head at the notion.Ivy sighed and looked back at Lelouch, tilting her head slightly, "Are you sure about him, Lelouch? He's not very trustworthy; more likely, he'll stab us in the back or use this chance to his benefit." Her doubt in the rich man evident.Lelouch chuckled, stepping out of the convoy and observing Jacques getting into the Manta. "He's also predictable." The group paused. "And predictability can easily be controlled." he looked on, his voice strong.The four women stared."A man like him wants power, riches, and respect... everything he can have... Everything anyone with an ounce of greed desires," He stated, his fingers taping the door lightly and stepping away to lean against the armored truck."A noose is now wrapped around him, the more he believes he'll be left to do his own selfish desires, the tighter it becomes," he said nonchalantly as Jacques took to the air, flying back to the safety and protection of Atlas, Lelouch watching on until the dot disappeared into the distance, a satisfied smile behind his mask, that neither member Team BRIR could see.Another step, another stone, more to plan and to arrange. He wasn't short of challenges ahead, he knew, but right now he felt confident about their place and position. He would take steps as necessary, always adapting.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

7 months after initial arrival.
Construction cranes lifted high, dust bellowing like clouds in a sea of flickering lights; the faint hum of motors and the heavy grinding and twisting of metal drowned the landscape. Workers scurried along, welding metal plates and bolting panels in place, hastily but diligently repairing the large hole that had plagued Mantle's wall for months.A pair of boots dangled over the edge of a nearby building, kicking their feet absentmindedly while waiting, hands behind their head. "Honestly, was this necessary?" Ruda grumbled, glancing to the right to catch sight of Lelouch in the corner of her eye."Sometimes it's the simple gestures that inspire the greatest things," Lelouch shrugged."Huh?" She wondered, looking at him directly. "I get what you mean... But, this hole was guarded 24/7, Atlas has made sure no Grimm just bust in." the drill user argued.Sitting beside her on the ledge, Lelouch and her could simply observe from atop the rooftop, a steady watch being kept over the process, along with a platoon of his men who stood alert at the foot of the wall."For some, the image of this gaping, bleeding wound is a reminder of the constant struggle of their daily lives... Of the tragedy that is always waiting just outside the wall." Lelouch recounted thoughtfully.Ruda craned her head up at the cloudless, early morning sky, before casting her gaze upon the wall before them, its' builders putting effort and resolve, doing everything they could. "So like, despite guards always being here... seeing this opening makes the citizens think that they're alone. They need to see it fixed so they feel protected and secure?" she suggested."That's how the human psyche is," his head tilted to face Ruda. "Humans always desire to live in a place that gives them security." He mused.Ruda nodded at his wisdom, relaxing once she felt satisfied with that explanation.A comfortable silence hung around them both while they continued their watch, an occasional few people looking up and waving a friendly hello or greeting, which the drill-wielding woman would always return, both with a casual salute from herself and a more subdued gesture of respect from the officer, giving a tilt of his helmet.This wall was just one of several dozen or so repairs the young colonel had made sure to carry out, making significant improvements, rebuilding parts that had deteriorated due to a lack of Atlas' attention, and mending up the cracks in the broken infrastructure.Places within the city saw many changes and had been rebuilt from the ground up, crime plummeted as police did a better job in patrolling the streets, and thanks in no small part to the new leadership of Colonel Lamperouge, who made sure he was seen working shoulder-to-shoulder with Mantle's citizens, mending and working to better the city."All this construction sure makes walking down the street fun," Ivy's sarcastic voice commented, her nose crinkled and her hands shoved in her pockets while she watched the small crews of workers run electrical cables or haul in the beams, steel frames, and various materials needed for their work."No one said the renovations were going to be fun," Lelouch quipped as he waved to a few citizens, giving him a short round of applause when he passed through the neighborhood, their expressions full of smiles and looks of hope.Lelouch started this endeavor, finding the spots that could easily use repairs or modernization, but at the same time, his soldiers were helping clear up streets by patching holes, aiding civilians in tearing down abandoned structures or old shops and buildings, helping the homeless and building makeshift housing or tents to replace those who were lacking a place to call home.The help may not have been enough but it was a start. A show to demonstrate his loyalty.As a result, the hard work paid off, Mantle's general mood had improved, and the sense of isolation from Atlas was decreasing steadily. Now a genuine hope was starting to make its way into the hearts and souls of Mantle, something many had probably never had in a long time.His consent presence was enough to persuade the people that there were efforts made, that life was improving, and most of all... there was someone here. Who gave a shit, and did everything he could for them.Of course, Jacques made sure people knew his company's contribution to the restoration of Mantle. Every piece of equipment and worker's uniform bore the company insignia, and Jacques was eager to run TV, radio, and news interviews, declaring his role as a benefactor to the whole venture, the city's future was owed to the SDC, the news outlets happily echoing those exact words, trumpeting him for his efforts and willingness to help.Many believed his lies. Others would ask why he hadn't done any of this before, and then there were the doubters, Robyn and her Happy Huntresses were some of the people who questioned and dared the wealthy, powerful Atlesian to prove his kindness, stating Mantle didn't have an appetite for being mislead or taken advantage of.However, even if they were able to poke enough holes into Jacques' story, in the end, the reality of his actions mattered. And Mantle was changing for the better.Continuing their stroll, Ivy trotted closer to Lelouch, turning her attention towards him, "Mantle really is feeling the weight of change." she gestured her head behind her to some construction going on, the former slum site being transformed to something more palatable, and more useful."Its inhabitants have started to rally together under our guidance... With time, hopefully, more and more people will believe in my brighter future." Lelouch offered. "This isn't going to happen overnight, though. Years of Atlas apathy have created this divide, this divide will take years to heal."Ivy nodded at the assessment, a slight grin coming across her features as they made it a few more paces down the lane, hearing the distinct aggressiveness of an argument, not having gone far as it was already located directly to the right of the path, at a corner.It didn't sound friendly, and it seemed like both parties were growing angrier and more aggressive with each passing moment; Lelouch's head slowly turned, eyes narrowing.A fox Faunus shop owner stood at their front door, face reddened, shoulders hunched, and a finger was aggressively prodded in the direction of an older human man, who was looking quite outraged."We haven't sold any drugs! That's crazy talk and you're being disrespectful to our family!" the vixen woman hissed, arms crossed.The customer fumed. "Your kind, it's all the same! You do nothing to contribute to society and deserve to be-" His enraged insult was interrupted suddenly as two large Atlesian soldiers grabbed the man's arms. "Wait-Hey?!" he squawked angrily."Sir, you're coming with us," the first one rumbled firmly before roughly escorting the confused, baffled human off."...Good to see our troops doing what they're meant to do," Ivy noted, "Still though, didn't we tell 'em not to let trouble start for this project? Seems like they could do their jobs better if you ask me...""It will work itself out. Let the patrol officers and soldiers handle their respective roles, they understand our plans for this city." Lelouch affirmed.A group of civilians came up to the Fox Faunus and shook her hand, offering their condolences and thanking her for her work in the community and for taking care of many others. Another pair of soldiers questioned her and wrote down what had happened before politely taking her report, which they agreed to follow up on immediately.Ivy chuckled under her breath as her superior stepped further past her, knowing she could trust him on the matter. Spotting a glaring huntress across the street and not looking too keen on trusting his work with the community.May Marigold, one of Robyn's little companions, had been keeping her own close, personal eye on things happening here in Mantle, obviously not entirely buying the sudden display of interest to have a colonel spearhead a project to revitalize the whole of Mantle.Stopping in the middle of the street, Lelouch glanced at the blue-haired woman, feeling her icy stare boring through his mask.Keeping her eyes on him for a long few moments, May eventually moved, rotating around and walking off with hands in her pocket."I have a good feeling that we've still got work to do," Ivy said with a slight laugh. "Especially in winning them over..." she said, eyeing where May had left, keeping her gaze there even as she felt Lelouch nod in understanding."Indeed," he began with his own thoughtful exhale. Of course, winning people over with kindness wasn't the only option at his disposal... and indeed, that method was hardly ever enough to fully achieve what was wanted.Mechanical arms drilled and screwed bolts as teams of engineers welded parts into a finished product, the giant mech was still mostly a frame, but given time, Lelouch was confident it and the rest of his Knightmare squadrons would become a reality.Based on the fifth-generation Sutherland model and using the many spare Paladins and frames salvaged or repurposed, the production lines were moving day and night for assembly of the army's mecha forces.A more advanced Knightmare generation would have been preferred, but resources were already spread thin with their ongoing operations and preparations, he'd had to compromise somewhere... and the fourth generations in service of the Mistral armies certainly weren't all that different from these new prototypes...Stepping into the main workshop where the prototypes were housed, Lelouch, accompanied by Roane, examined the units under construction and maintenance.Roane eyed one of the prototypes, her mellow voice inquiring curiously "The prototypes are basically reverse-engineering the Paladins, right?""To put it in layman's terms, yes. Adapting a previously known design rather than experimenting and developing new ideas would serve us better and be far less costly," he explained.Lelouch traced a hand over the knee guard of one prototype unit. The machine's appearance, aside from lacking most of the armor and weaponry, was fairly close to the final Sutherland build.A simple, lean, and streamlined machine. With a lightweight yet durable composite metal alloy frame, that would increase mobility without sacrificing power."Soon, any ol' civilian or Atlas soldier can hop in and perform like your average huntsmen," He remarked, strolling along the many machines, taking a mental note of the progress the various engineers and mechanics were making.Walking alongside Lelouch, Roane listened with attention as he kept talking, a small smile adorning her features while hearing his explanations on the machine's, technical aspects."They'll be equipped with an impressive firepower. Dust-infused torso-mounted anti-personnel machine gun and a choice between a large assortment of equipment... Assault rifles, sniper rifles, shoulder-mounted variable-guided rocket launchers, and arm-mounted dual-barrel handguns.In addition, all Knightmares will have a vast array of melee weapons at the ready in the case the soldier becomes a bit reckless or is faced with a disadvantage," He elaborated further while pointing at each location where a weapon system would reside."Are you sure this is a good idea, making sure every regular soldier, every foot-solider, has the means to put down a pack of Grimm single-handedly?" The crimson-haired woman asked.Shrugging casually, he faced her, gesturing as he spoke. "With a world full of threats both Grimm and otherwise, I simply intend on giving the people of Remnant every available advantage. Remnant current way of life is to always be on the defensive; I aim to break that cycle." He reasoned, crossing his arms behind his back.Roane quirked an eyebrow up but hummed thoughtfully. "Guess you've got a point, Lelouch. Our way of life has been around for so long we've forgotten how to get to the front of the line and have some control... You're gonna change all that... with or without these things, aren't you?""Yes. Change comes inevitably, it is our greatest constant in all of this. Nothing stays the same, Roane,"He halted mid-step, both his head and body facing his huntress, his masked countenance gazing deep into her soul as he concluded, "And there will always be those who resist change... who fear what it holds."Out in the middle of the cold, harsh wilds of Solitas. A small metal orb emits an orange glow. Floating freely over a field of white snow as dozens of Grimm snarled, staring at the tiny light of the orb with rabid curiosity, pulled by whatever malevolent force existed within the small metal device, a tugging urge to follow the glowing little light.More and more of the black, monstrous creatures arrived, congregating, growling amongst each other, and continuing their watch of the thing that now held their attention, becoming enthralled.A whistle carried upon the winds and rang in the ears of Grimm, piercing the once-silent atmosphere of the Solitas wastes.All heads snapped, their instincts heightened, their claws scraping against the cold hard ground of the snowy expanse of Solitas, preparing to bolt away.At least that was the intention.However, an artillery round came in hot, arcing in the sky above and slamming directly into the large collection of Grimm in a deafening eruption of shrapnel and fire.Viewed from the safety of an armored troop transport, Lelouch, Bianca, and a group of scientists all had a good view of their first experiment."An excellent display!" Lelouch watched on as more explosions struck the horde of Grimm with impeccable accuracy."Certainly exceeded our expectations!" another of the scientists said happily, observing through a binocular device as a dozen more explosions shredded the horde to pieces."The Negative Orb works as intended, bringing Grimm in from miles and miles to congregate in one central location" Dr. Ferric added, a smug grin on his face as the targets were continuously ravaged."Remarkable, the number of creatures called seems to correlate with the size, distance, and strength of the negative signal!" a lab coat-wearing young scientist exclaimed, observing readings on a hand-held device and tracking the multitude of signal readouts."Ha, I'd love to see anyone disregard our brilliance after these results." Dr. Ferric commented snarkily.Crossing her arms, Bianca shot Lelouch a look. "Well, that makes things easier than trying to scout out Grimm dens." She was pleased about that fact.Lelouch tilted his head in affirmation. It also opened a whole host of tactical options if this testing showed everything could work as planned."The tides have begun to shift, but we shouldn't grow complacent; Grimm ate not something to be taken lightly," Lelouch warned, knowing full well how things could go horribly wrong if proper steps weren't taken in testing their new strategy."Of course." Dr. Ferric began to argue, shifting his attention to the colonel. "Everything's proceeding as expected. Now we need to focus on the actual point, using this as a long-range remote Grimm Trap,"As the researchers went about their tests, they observed, cheered, took notes, charted, and documented everything they could. Bianca wandered closer to Lelouch. "What now Lelouch? Mantle is undergoing huge changes; your Knightmares are slowly coming together, and the Negative orbs have tested successfully. Have you any plans for what's to come other than securing a seat for yourself on the council?"The masked leader's helmet slowly rotated towards his huntress, and friend, the aura surrounding the man and the tone of his words practically dripping confidence, and satisfaction "Preparations will continue, there are so many possibilities, it will be quite the future for Atlas,"Bianca scoffed a chuckle as if she didn't expect him to say otherwise, "I feel that'll be the understatement of a lifetime, colonel,""Of that, my dear Bianca," Lelouch leaned against his chair, the orange and white palette that painted the horizon and the empty barren white, flat landscape, giving an almost hallow but inviting touch to the man, making him a faceless, towering figure, "I am counting on it,".....
Off the coast of Solitas, a stolen Manta dropship swayed back and forth slightly in the chilling breeze. New players were approaching the chess board of the world, their move about to change everything for everyone else.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Looking out his window, Lelouch stood with his back to his desk, studying Mantle. He made great strides with its rehabilitation. More construction occurred than it had in centuries. Freshwater, power, medical care, heating, everything was available to every person and community of the city.

Many of his agents worked diligently and tirelessly to take care of everything and see to their assignments. The soldiers stationed in the city did their part, upholding laws and protecting the people who lived there.

Crime rates fell, homes, stores, and businesses were rebuilt, he made sure they were up to date, and even the most humble of establishments and living spaces received his improvements.

Roads, the city's center, and the train stations were being reconstructed into beautiful, up-to-date examples, offering safe and stable transportation for all the citizens of Mantle.

He could almost be content with his work. Almost.

This whole world needed to change. It's kingdoms, their outdated and self-destructive systems of isolation; they could use a makeover, and Remnant would have it in the very, near future.

This would just be the start. He'd change it all, reshape the world into something that wouldn't risk constant destruction and utter ruin. He'd fix what many didn't realize was broken.

A knock rapped upon his door, breaking his concentration on his city, turning him to glance to the doorway of his office.

"Enter," he permitted calmly, a friendly smile flashing from under his mask, his arms already unfolded and held behind his back in his typical dignified poise.

An officer saluted to his superior, halting right by the desk, posture erect and form well-manicured, appearing pristine and disciplined. "At ease, lieutenant." he smiled, bidding his aide to relax his pose. "What is it?"

"Atlas air control intercepted a Manta without clearance approaching Atlas and ordered it to land. There was no response from the vessel, but the ship's now turned and is flying for Mantle." the young, but diligent officer reported.

"...That's concerning." Lelouch could agree to this fact, stepping aside and crossing the space to a terminal. He pulled up a few displays, analyzing the craft's vector of approach.

"An enemy ship or a traitor, sir?"

"This does not fit the pattern or behavioral archetypes of an enemy attack force. As for treachery..." the young colonel hummed thoughtfully, having analyzed many opponents. "This move is certainly not what would be expected," he observed.

"Noted, Colonel. We're scrambling interceptors now,"

Waving him off, Lelouch looked to the window. "Cancel that order, lieutenant, this is my assignment. I'll handle this, myself." the young officer gawked.

"B-But Colonel, Atlas security guidelines- "the words halted abruptly when the masked soldier spun around, staring sternly at his officer.

"Have Team BRIR and several squads meet me at Hangar Delta, immediately, lieutenant" Lelouch began calmly, spinning around and heading for a set of double doors that would take him directly to one of many air pads.

"Oh, and lieutenant?"

"Yes sir?"

"Have surveillance, keep an eye on our guests. From when they land to their final destination"

Saluting in acknowledgment, the officer departed promptly, leaving Lelouch alone.

Tucking his arms behind his back, Lelouch marched onwards through the Atlesian base, soldiers scurrying around and tending to their tasks. Many offered a salute and friendly hello, but the young man took very few notes of it and just kept his sights on the elevators at the end of the hangar.

Who would be arriving on an Atlesian vessel without clearing first? Someone bold, or very, very stupid. Maybe a bit of both, who knew. Either way, his interest was piqued...

Nervousness, hesitation, anxiety, all these and so much more flooded Ruby Rose as the stolen Manta veered away from Atlas and the surrounding fleet that had patrolled the skies of the kingdom's capital.

Playing a bit more cautious in this tense situation, Team RWBY, Team JNR, Qrow, Maria, and Oscar chose instead to land in Mantle before heading for Atlas, an easier, safer alternative than possibly being arrested.

Gazing out the window with apprehension, the red-capped huntress scanned the city below, surprised to see people enjoying themselves, conversing, smiling, and having a good time...

"Wow, no offense but I always thought Mantle was supposed to be a... kind of, umm... terrible place." Yang voiced Ruby's thoughts exactly. "But look at this place!" she pressed her palm against the glass window, taking in all the people who were not looking fearful and despairing, as expected but were happy...

A group of Atlesian Knight-200s on patrol stopped as their human captain conversed with a Faunus citizen, both chatting cordially before continuing about their business with smiles plastered upon their faces.

"...It's supposed to be," Qrow's grumpy voice echoed. "Last time I was down here, it looked a lot more, well, miserable..." His brows knitted together, glancing upward to his niece with a shrug, and the slightest touch of uncertainty.

Flying past a giant screen on the side of a skyscraper, the visage of a militaristic leader with a helmet concealing his face dominated the broadcast.

"People of Mantle," the man's distorted voice thundered across the streets, a low rumble echoing behind each word he spoke, "Remember, in these dark and troublesome times, you must come together and show unity." He raised a fist, his tone as loud and authoritative as ever, "Remind yourselves that no one and nothing will defeat the might of our Kingdom. The might of a united Solitas!'

Feed cutting, the helmeted man faded, a blue screen emitting, before showing the Schnee company logo.

"Uhh... Weiss?" Ruby nervously looked at her friend.

Having failed to contact her sister Winter on scroll, Weiss' attention shifted to her family's logo on the TV.

"What the...?" The white-haired heiress breathed, confused by the transmission she just witnessed, "...That's a Schnee logo. That's the Schnee logo!" she stated the obvious, brows pinching together as she looked at her teammates.

"Who was that guy?!" Nora uttered aloud in alarm, unsure about what to make of such a declaration.

Weiss bit her lip nervously, uncertain.

"Must be some big shot James decided to put in charge... Wasn't a great first impression, though," Qrow commented dryly, "Mantle might treat us just like Atlas does if we show ourselves."

"He seemed pretty intense." Blake added softly, folding her hands as she was at a loss for words, "But... yeah."

Rapping on the ship's frame with her knuckles, Maria questioned. "Is there a better place to land than this?"

Pivoting from the window, Yang stared back, slightly hesitant. "We don't have much of a choice."

Qrow slid off his seat, wandering closer to Ruby. "You, okay kid?" He asked; a low, serious, and concerned tone had the girl looking back with mild surprise, his half-lidded gaze more unreadable than usual.

"Yeah," She shook her head slightly.

The rugged-looking man let his expression soften, the rough edges melting away a little bit. "It'll be alright, you're a strong girl. Your team will get through anything; all you need is a little faith and maybe... a whole lot of luck." His advice did very little to quell her anxieties, but still, she was grateful for the effort.

After Maria brought up someone she knew who could hide them for the moment. They abandoned the Manta in an isolated alley, and the squad of heroes slipped back into Mantle's crowds and navigated the streets.

Their earlier observations were correct: the once poor, near-decrepit city was in the midst of a major overhaul, the streets were cleaned up, construction crews were working around the clock, fresh paint adorned the older buildings and graffiti-plagued walls, everything looked organized, proper, even orderly.

Jaune looked around, giving an awkward laugh, "...The only word for this city at the moment is surreal..." he pointed out, both uneasy and baffled by the strange state of Mantle he and everyone else found themselves walking through.

"...Anytime Mantle has been mentioned, it always had an atmosphere of negativity..." Ren noted, studying a massive billboard with the symbol of the SDC that hung across a rooftop.

Blake shared a glance with Ren while nodding in agreement with him.

"For a city full of poverty, neglect, and deprivation, It is surprisingly alive... The stories I'd heard from some of the Faunus miners who used to live here always spoke of Mantle as the grim, sad ghost town that it is. A shadow of Atlas..." Blake reflected on those who told her these tales.
Oscar continued studying his surroundings, following the flow of people. The populous moving, flowing, moving along with an energy not common to other cities, people not rushing to escape to the next job or hunkering down for the night or getting from place to place. They moved about their lives, shopping, going for ice cream, and playing. All seemingly unaffected by the negativity in the past.
Losing track of how many times she'd seen the SDC logo plastered up with positive words and affirmations of good, positive propaganda, Ruby peered over to Weiss. "So your family is involved with this?" she guessed.

The heiress furrowed her brows, uncertain. "I can't imagine my father, willingly lending a hand to Mantle in any kind of way," she uttered, knowing it was extremely unlikely her father was helping for a genuinely kind and considerate reason.

"Well, we're here to get some answers..." Qrow concluded, hands tucked inside his pocket and keeping his eyes peeled.

Avoiding a few patrols along the way, the heroes rounded the corner, soon entering a small shop belonging to a friend of Maria's named Pietro.

Introductions were made, and small talk was kept to a minimum. Everyone's concern had been palatable.

"Sir, could you perhaps shed some light on the situation, what has occurred around these parts..." Ren kindly requested the gray-bearded doctor and friend of Maria.

Rubbing his chin, the professor hummed thoughtfully. "I take it you mean Mantle's sudden makeover?"

Ruby nodded, "Yeah. Is everything alright? Is Ironwood okay? What's the SDC's sudden involvement in Mantle?

In his lap, the elderly scientist's hands clasped together in thought, contemplating before breathing an exhausted sigh. "...Well ever since the attempted coup-"

"There was a coup?!" The entire squad of young huntsmen exclaimed loudly.

Pietro flinched, "Ah, yes, you have missed a lot haven't you?"

"Yeah... I'd say so," Yang mumbled dejectedly, arms crossing over her chest.

"A coup!?! Like an actual coup?! What?!" Weiss exclaimed, voice slightly higher in pitch due to the surprise of the revelation, the Schnee daughter spinning around to her teammates in shock.

The fact that something like this could have happened in her home and she wouldn't even have heard of it until now, shocked the white-haired girl. "Someone tried to kill General Ironwood?! And take control of Atlas?!" She stared in wide-eyed disbelief.

"Why don't we back up, and explain..." Qrow suggested, leaning closer, his eyes serious, all humor gone from his person and body language.

"Yes... I suppose it'd be best for me to catch you up on current affairs and the happenings of these recent weeks... If not months." He straightened himself.

"There was an attempt," the old man looked at Weiss trying to calm her a bit. "More like the early stages of one, though fortunately enough it was unsuccessful." he continued, relaxing slightly. "From high-ranking military leaders to members of the government and private sectors."

Team RWBY, JNR, Oscar, Maria, and Qrow all exchanged glances with one another, keeping silent as Pietro began to slowly recount the events.

"A young officer managed to disrupt and ultimately put down the attempt," He explained, drawing Weiss' attention and causing a sharp eyebrow to arch with curiosity. "I've met him a handful of times and he seems like a smart and diligent young man."

"Wow, one guy brought down a coup?" Nora murmured, astonished and impressed. "Must be good to have on a side then,"

"Definitely." Yang agreed in awe.

"An ambitious man indeed," Ren mused with a smile, hands clasping in thought.

"General Ironwood thought as much." Pietro said as he shifted slightly, sighing heavily, "...And has thus seen to have elevated his protégé's status to that of a colonel..."

"Is that the one on TV?!" Blake chimed in with a raised finger, causing Weiss to nod in realization remembering the mask-wearing soldier they saw broadcasting throughout the streets.

"Yep, Colonel Lelouch Lamperouge Mantle's new chief enforcer and savior as far as the media is concerned..."

"Huh? Enforcer? Savoir? I mean... huh? How'd stopping a coup lead to Mantle's overhaul?" Yang queried.

Weiss stared back, "Lamperouge...? I haven't heard of that family... I suppose being a military protégé, Colonel Lamperouge must possess skills far above average. Maybe his family was gifted and, in turn, passed their talent to him."

"Well I don't know anything about his background, but a few days after the coup, Colonel Lamperouge was bestowed the jurisdiction by James to act as chief commander for Mantle, with that authority he ordered a slew of ambitious reforms and improvements, and not long later things began to change" the head of his mechanical chair rotated a bit, his gaze focusing onto Weiss. "With the border lockdown, things haven't exactly been ideal; resources are stretched, yet the colonel somehow convinced your father, of all people, to put forth a lot of effort and money, both of which have done wonders."

"Wh-... I, that, I..." speechless, the former heiress couldn't manage words, her expression was of stunned silence.

"Oh my, is Weiss okay?" Ruby blinked, genuinely worried.

"She's actually losing words," Jaune murmured quietly.

Pietro smiled lightly, finding the situation amusing yet not uncalled for.

"Great! Nice to run into a guy who isn't a complete ass!" Yang was jokingly excited at the notion of the general's subordinate possibly being somewhat likable, given that they were down here of all places.

"He's currently running for a seat on the council and-" Pietro paused, glancing at Yang's robotic limb. Remembering all the stories she told him about, he quickly connected their names and who exactly these new faces were. "Oh my, you're Team-"

"RWBY." A filtered and distorted voice replied, cutting Pietro off and echoing in the room, every face now twisting to see the masked visage of the mysterious man who was blocking the doorway of the shop.

In an instant, the room turned dead silent.

Behind him stood four beautiful huntresses in their respective uniforms and weapons ready at their sides, none saying a word.

Growing tense by the sudden appearance and intrusion, the group collectively went into battle-ready stances.

Shield raised, Jaune nudged Ren, whispering. "Isn't that the colonel we were just talking about?" his question was met with a slow and affirming nod of the head from Ren.

A stillness hung in the air, both parties trying to anticipate what the other would do and say.

"R... Ruby?" Yang murmured low enough that only her leader would hear her, staring forward at the unknown soldiers, and wondering what on Remnant had just walked in and discovered them.

"Colonel...?" Ruby breathed uneasily, her stomach beginning to knot up in anxiety, was a fight about to break out here? Were they going to be detained? Her eyes darted to her Uncle, who remained motionless, his gaze fixed and trained on the other man.

"Wait, hold it!" Pietro, speaking out with his hands up, frantically motioning for them to stand down.

"Colonel Lamperouge, you have my word that these people mean us no ill will or have ill intentions." Pietro pleaded with the officer, causing him to turn his attention from the teens to the elder. "I can vouch for their character." He informed, raising his hands in a placating gesture.

A few more seconds passed and finally, the tension faded, and the colonel relaxed his posture, signaling his unit of warriors to follow suit, all standing down with their weapons put away.

"If the famed Dr. Polendina trusts them, then we will hold fast." the colonel conceded, keeping his gaze glued onto the other group, Ruby being at the forefront.

"Alright..." Ruby released a breath and lowered her scythe.

Following her lead, the rest did likewise.

"Phew!" Nora exhaled sharply, relieved that it didn't turn into a gunfight or fistfight or even a food fight.

"My apologies," The masked figure began, addressing the teens who gawked back, their tension giving away to curiosity. "This is hardly how I would've liked to introduce myself to a squad of Huntsman such as yourselves..." He chuckled dryly and took several steps forward.

"You-you know us?" Ruby asked meekly, turning her body and looking back at everyone, uncertain if that was a good thing or not.

The faceless officer continued until he was standing alongside Dr. Polendina, offering the elderly gentleman a friendly nod. "If you're asking if your deeds have carried your name across the skies of Solitas and into my ear, then no...." his gaze landed directly at Weiss, who met him with a cautious stare of her own.

"But when a stolen airship lands in Mantle without the proper code keys or prior notification... and comes with a famed heiress aboard..."

Weiss blanched when his statement, feeling herself flushing a tad with embarrassment and worry.

"Then yes, I make it a priority to know who's in my city," the armored officer stated sternly.

"...We never wanted to cause a problem, colonel," Weiss stated.

"Of course not," he didn't doubt the authenticity of her words and nodded in acceptance. "With this many hunters, you could've cleared an entire Grimm infestation with ease if you so choose." his hand moved across the room, a general motion. "Perhaps you are here simply to see the fruits of my endeavors with Mantle." his words seemed light but were laced with more intent than the others were aware of. "Or is this a matter of urgency?"

"...No... and, kinda sorta," Yang replied, having been caught off-guard by the man and unsure how best to answer his queries. "See, well the truth is we're uh..." She glanced toward her teammates with a 'help me?' look. "It's been a tough past couple weeks... for all of us." The golden-haired woman shook her head slowly. "We..."

"We're just in need of a break is all, maybe a place to rest," Qrow finally spoke up, deciding best to leave out their true intention. At least for the time being.

Ruby met his gaze, a mix of confusion and uncertainty about his decision not to reveal their mission to the man, knowing she couldn't argue against her uncle here and now.

Silence reigned for a few more tense moments.

The masked individual nodded slowly, almost casually, with no sign of any tension. "We have a few inns. It may be nothing like Atlas' five-star suites and comfort, but you'll be welcome."

Nodding back, the scraggly hunter shifted from one foot to the other, a little suspicious.

"Please." The Colonel insisted gesturing to his group of hunstress, "Team BRIR and I will escort you and give you accommodations. There you can rest assured the world will leave you alone for a while..."

Qrow examined him for a little longer, silently trying to get a read on him. The colonel made no outward moves or sounds, making it a bit harder for the drunk to suss the man's character. "Right, let's go." he was wary yet determined, motioning to Ruby's team before his eyes darted between Maria, who seemed like she'd rather stay with Pietro.

Nodding towards the door, Qrow followed the masked man as he led them outside.

"Remember kids, please enjoy your stay!" The professor called from his place, smiling kindly and seeing them off, waving goodbye.

Qrow was the first out and stopped, startled at the large force assembled outside the shop's entrance. More than 100 soldiers were surrounding the exterior of Pietro's establishment in a loose half-circle formation, their collective gaze and weapons turned on Qrow and Ruby's group.

Back turned to the group of huntsmen Lelouch's cold and piercing tone sliced the air with an intensity that could cut steel "I suggest none of you try and run,"

Glancing back, his helmeted head spun, a chilling vibe emanating from his form, the leader was unflinching even with Qrow staring him down, ready to pull his sword. "Mr. Branwen, don't try anything stupid. That will not help your nieces, or anyone else here for that matter," His words were soft but demanded submission.

With the rest of the group exiting the building, all were shocked at the small army surrounding the building, soldiers bristled with their weapons aimed at them, the huntsmen tensing up once again with their hands tightening around the weapons' grips.

"What was that about not dealing with a complete ass?" Weiss whispered, glaring daggers at the colonel.

Yang scoffed, fists clenched and ready to rumble while Blake had a hard frown, trying to search out an exit strategy.

Seeing the group tense, ready to bolt and fight their way out, Lelouch paused briefly, sensing their exact emotions and intent, waiting a moment for the situation to take hold. "Enough. This doesn't have to be hostile... though. Should you really be surprised we are not fond of those who sneak their way in without following protocol? You're the enemy to them." He pointed to the armed men.

"W-We aren't the bad guys! We've never wanted to hurt anyone!" Ruby interjected quickly, panic and worry mixing in her silver eyes, she was always more hesitant and conflicted with such dire and complicated situations... and her mind raced with a thousand scenarios right now, each scenario a chaotic mess in its own right.

Taking a step forward, Lelouch studied the group, measuring every detail, the pain they were bearing, the concern and fear they were enduring; every fiber of their being was wracked with uncertainty. "Then give up your weapons. I can assure you no harm shall come to you," his filtered voice calmly reasoned.

Jaune wasn't having it, raising his shield. "Bullshit." he snapped.

"Yeah, like those inns you mentioned. I'm sure we'll have great accommodations inside an Atlas prison cell," Yang quipped sarcastically.

"Ah yes, how silly of me," Lelouch glanced away with a shrug, sounding like he didn't care. "Lying to liars, who hide their true intentions to reach their desires," He challenged, crossing his arms over the other in a slightly condescending manner.

Qrow and Ruby flinched slightly, not expecting the colonel to have seen through Qrow's lie of omission.

"He's kinda got a point there," Oscar mumbled, Qrow glancing at him with mild annoyance.

"Still, why the hostility? Why the whole battalion?!" Ren questioned firmly.

Lelouch spared Ren a short glance. "I take my job as Mantle's protector very seriously."

Ren sighed deeply, understanding.

"...What do you think kiddo? Fight, flight, or surrender?" Qrow rumbled, his tone heavy with cynical bitterness, shoulders rolled into his back, already anticipating the young huntswoman's answer, despite how much of a losing fight he knew they were in.

Gripping her scythe tighter and leaning forward a little, the young girl closed her eyes, steadying her breaths. Ruby opened her silver orbs once more, suddenly catching the sight of someone in a building looking at them from the window, worried and nervous, gripping the drapes.

Ruby's eyes began to dart around, noting many scared, terrified, and confused faces of innocent, ordinary civilians watching witnesses. All terrified.

...Of them. Of her friends.

Her throat tightened up, chest clenching and heart sinking, a knot beginning to build within, causing the petite, youthful huntress' nerves to fray further. "Guys l-lower your weapons," she instructed softly, barely above a whisper, not daring to look her teammates in the eye and choosing instead to lock eyes with the man in charge.

Everyone balked at the notion. "Ruby? You can't be serious!" Blake shook her head.

"What?! No, never!" Jaune countered immediately, not about to play this game.

"Ruby... Are you absolutely sure about this?" Her Uncle asked carefully, concerned for her.

"I... yeah." she nodded, trying to swallow that lump forming in her throat, a swirl of anxiety welling inside of her belly.

Letting out a sigh, Qrow let his arms slack, loosening and placing the tip of his blade against the concrete beneath, silently coming to trust his niece's call, despite how reckless of a choice he thought it might have been.

Following his lead and looking a touch uneasy, Oscar and a hesitant Ren also complied with Ruby's demands.

Seeing the intruders comply, Lelouch waved Team BRIR forward, the women moving toward them to take control of their weapons, relieving them from their possession.

Pensive, his scowl not easing one bit, Jaune tried one more time, desperately wanting to keep his weapon, to stay armed in a hostile situation with what could possibly be enemies.

However, a warm hand placed itself on his forearm, "Let go Jaune..." Nora whispered. "It'll be okay..." Her comforting smile reached him through her gaze, and his own, worried gaze faltered and wavered before he, too, gave up his sword.

"Fine." he breathed in exasperation, relenting in the end. "Nothing better happen to these..." Jaune narrowed his gaze dangerously at Ivy, whose catlike green gaze burned back definitely as she claimed his Crocea Mors.

"Yeah, yeah, boo hoo!" Ruda replied, prying Nora's hammer out of her hands. "We're doing security protocol, so calm down you baby." She scolded before moving on to the rest of Team RWBY.

One by one, their respective weapons were seized by Bianca, Ivy, Ruda, and Roane, much to the discontent of the huntsmen who did not relish having their only lifelines stripped from them.

Catching sight of a bag on Ruby's back, Bianca made a motion for it, stepping around. "And the pack," she demanded, her stern, clear voice leaving no room for negotiation.

"...R-Right." Nodding meekly, the leader unhooked the bag and handed it over.

Opening the duffel bag the leader's eyes widened briefly at the sight of lamp within. "What's this?" Her suspicion rose.

“Ah-Nothing, it's just-"

Not liking someone getting their hands on the relic and being this close to it, Yang and the others took a step forward, only to stop when the soldiers that had formed a perimeter around them aimed their weapons in their direction.

"Hey, hold on a second-" Nora exclaimed, hands going up while Ren raised his to placate the situation.

Twirling the lamp on her finger, Bianca smiled, "Wow. This seems nice." her tone wasn't snide or arrogant, more curious if anything. "Cute little souvenir."

"Wait, but-!" Blake attempted to counter, not able to come up with a response before Bianca strolled over to Lelouch and presented the prize.

"That doesn't belong to you," Weiss said firmly, annoyed and weary as Bianca walked over and handed over the lamp like it was nothing special.

Lelouch had taken the item carefully. It wasn't light, or heavy. "Mhm." he mused softly, a quiet breath of intrigue escaping him. "Bianca, have the team lead our men to form a perimeter patrol. I'm fairly confident our visitors won't give us any more trouble," his tone was serene, authoritative, calm, and not demanding in the slightest.

She nodded her understanding and proceeded to address the nearest group of soldiers. The rest of Team BRIR acknowledged the orders as well and began leading the squads around the small area, giving the huntsmen and Lelouch room to converse.

Ruby stood anxiously watching them take their weapons before focusing on him.

Lelouch calmly examined the lamp, while carefully noting the silver-eyed girl's body posture and the nervousness, her subtle tell-tales that he would use later.

"So this is a relic?" His brow quirked curiously beneath his mask as he examined it a little longer, gently spinning the artifact in his hand.

The group stiffened at the mention of the relic, everyone's minds drawing back to Ozpin and how secretive he was about keeping these ancient treasures.

"You know about the relics!?" Oscar exclaimed with genuine astonishment, before swallowing and correcting himself quickly, "I mean-uhh... Wh-what's a relic, exactly?" the boy added lamely, fumbling with his words nervously, silently reprimanding himself at his slip up.

Uncaring about the other teen's behavior and choice of words, the armored man focused on the lamp. "Ironwood will need to examine this" He mused to himself more than anything.

The sound of a Manta and jets could be heard in the distance, closing fast. "Sounds like your ride is coming." the Colonel took a few steps toward Ruby and held out the relic. "Till then, keep it hidden." He requested, Ruby hesitantly reaching for it.

"If it's okay to ask why the sudden help and kindness?" Nora questioned the masked man as Ruby took back the lamp and hid it from view.

"Like I said, Mantle is my city, and I do take my job protecting it, rather seriously," Lelouch admitted simply. "I don't know what you've all been through, I don't know why you're here... And, believe it or not, I truly don't wish any harm upon your persons." He remarked, hands shifting behind his back casually. "Ironwood has informed a few of his trusted soldiers of what lies across the border. I was one of them. Salem, Relics, Maidens, a seemingly impossible journey of hope." He voiced clearly, surprising the group.

"So, you've got the whole story..." Weiss exhaled quietly, making a mental note.

"James must've felt backed into a corner if he shared everything." Qrow commented, "Usually he liked keeping the status quo and leaving the truth hidden as much as Ozpin did,"

Ruby blinked. "So then, you're not taking us in or holding us, then." she reasoned, finding his current lenience on them still baffling.

Shaking his head Lelouch reached for the clasps of his helmet, pulling it off with a soft hiss of air, "Your mission, the truths you carry, it is quite significant to the safety of us all."

What was exposed from the removal, left a few jaws dropping, Weiss gasping loudly.

His raven locks framed a young and pale face with striking purple eyes and high cheekbones; his expression was firm, with thin lips and a narrow chin. Pietro had said he was young but Weiss hadn't quite expected someone their age.

"Holy..." Nora's eyes went wide, "Uh..."

"...Dust." Yang finished in awe.

Bowing his head respectfully, the violet-eyed colonel returned his gaze to his captives. "As long as you stay in the region of Solitas you'll be treated and allowed the freedoms every citizen here deserves. Though a lockdown of our city's borders still stands, travel is possible under certain circumstances. Especially if you're looking to enjoy the facilities Mantle has to offer." he proposed kindly, offering his hand to the young leader.

Looking from his open palm to his calm features, Ruby took a shaky breath, feeling all eyes fall on her for a final decision. "Colonel Lelouch Lamperouge." Extending a shaky hand, the young leader cleared her throat slightly. "Uhm, nice to meet you... Officially."

"An honor," His tone and expression softened; clasping hands, he found her palm a tad sweaty. "...You're a tad young for such burdens. But then, we all had our share of tough situations at a similar age," he reassured her with a smile, staring straight into her soul as she remained locked on his face.

Stiffening up, Ruby had noticed the change in the man's demeanor, his whole visage having shifted, gone from hard and stern to warm and cordial. A charisma, a sincerity emanated from the military colonel's form that both surprised, confused, and relaxed the young leader. "Thank you. You have no idea how much of a help this means to us." her shoulders were much less rigid.

Lelouch bowed his head in acceptance of the gratitude.

The Manta neared its flight path, the whir of its engines becoming audible in the streets; the small crowd that was drawn to the potential fight in the street broke apart, standing aside, giving a wide birth and free path for the transport. A strange green light accompanied the dropship and shone through the sky.

Picking up speed, the light dove, approaching rapidly, eyeing the oncoming entity; Lelouch gazed at Ruby before registering what was descending on top of them all.

"Right." Putting some distance between himself and the group Lelouch watched as the speeding figure crashed into Ruby, a rush of wind blowing past.

Rolling into an alley, Lelouch peeked around the corner to see, the girl pinned, helpless beneath the robotic girl known as Penny.

"Friend Ruby!" The girl practically sang, giggling joyously.

Ruby could only stare dumbly, ".... Penny?!" she squeaked out, shocked, bewildered, and utterly befuddled.

Smiling radiantly and affectionately the robot nuzzled her face into the younger girl's chest. "Yep, it's me!" she gushed happily, embracing her friend even tighter.

"I- Wh- H-Ho- How?!" Ruby uttered, stunned and yet so unbelievably elated. She pushed lightly on Penny's chest, creating enough room to study the happy face, marveling at her return from the dead.

Soon joined by the rest of her team.

Yang and Weiss ran up to the pair, Yang sliding on her knees and wrapping her arms around the two. "Penny!" The blonde practically cheered, "You're back!! You're alive?!" Her voice brimmed with hope and excitement.

Sitting up, Penny put an arm around Yang as well, a goofy, ever-innocent smile plastered on her face. "Salutations!" she chirped brightly, giggling in joy.

Weiss also brought her hands over, gingerly stroking the freckles across Penny's cheeks, before throwing herself around and holding her tight, all semblance of regal, 'highborn' lady had evaporated in favor of genuine emotional and relived affections, hugging her robot friend with her heartfelt desires. "I-it's so good to see you're okay, Penny..."

Wiggling their way closer, Jaune, Nora, Ren, and Blake each smiled in earnest, offering Penny a friendly hand and welcoming hug, the latter of which she accepted easily.

As the android girl began to explain how she was revived and repaired, and just how everything came to be as it did, Lelouch continued to watch from his safe distance.

Penny Polendina. An android created by the finest mind in Atlas' science and technology department, Pietro Polendina. Though an incredible, marvelous creation, she possessed a curious:soul', an insatiable thirst for adventure, and a strong devotion to the people of the kingdom.

Still, Lelouch kept tabs on the robot; after all, someone like her had a built-in resistance to his Geass; he was pretty certain if she was put at odds with him, she could beat him without breaking a sweat. He had to be wary, despite her sweet, bubbly, friendly persona.

The skills, combat experience, and training that she possessed, all surpassed anyone's wildest imagination. All of which were only heightened once she was rebuilt after the fall of Beacon.

If Lelouch slipped up or failed, made even a single mistake. There was no doubt Ironwood would dispatch this girl without hesitation to deal with him and his plans. He couldn't, wouldn't underestimate her abilities nor treat her as a mere girl…

Penny was an obstacle that he would have to play his cards around and dance along the strings of fate with caution and the utmost attention to detail until he figured out a way to best utilize or, in some scenarios, neutralize her...

So lost in his thoughts, Lelouch didn't even register the Manta as it hovered overhead, lowering, blowing his hair out of his face, he finally gazed upward, startled as the ramp unfolded. It was time to meet with General Ironwood.

"-I was the protector of Mantle for a while, but once General Ironwood says how great of a job Colonel Lamperouge was doing at elevating morale and fixing the problems in here. He decided to post me up in Atlas and ensure the defenses of the Kingdom's capital were well guarded.."

Penny nodded, continuing, "Sure, it isn't as exciting as before, but there isn't any other place I would be in right now. Protecting Atlas is not just my job but an honor." The Robot smiled, taking in everyone's approval and congratulations.

"We've all certainly missed you. Have a lot of stories to tell ya about all that's happened recently." Yang chuckled with a smirk.

Nodding Weiss smiled and helped the ginger-haired teen to her feet. "Oh, believe me, you won't even guess half the stuff that has occurred."

"Penny." Lelouch's filtered voice broke through the reunion of friends and family. Having reaffixed his mask, the military officer was standing on the Manta.

Speeding to the colonel's side in no time at all, her body gliding in a blur of green. "Colonel, Sir!"

Stepping further down the ramp to stand next to her, his gaze raked across the group. "Since things have been handled, and the slight breach has been settled without incident, you should inform General Ironwood that will be making our way to his office for a meeting," His words carried an air of authority that Penny was eager to comply to.

"Roger. Colonel Lamperouge, sir." the android spun on her heel. Waving goodbye to everyone, "Be seeing you, friends.

Jet boots kicking on, she rose effortlessly off the ground; turning gracefully, she accelerated fast, gaining height and flying in the direction of Atlas with grace.

"Whooa..." Jaune gaped, jaw slackening, his eyes following her ascent into the skyline and out of sight. "Remind me, not to get on her bad side..."

Ren patted Jaune's shoulder. "That... should go for most of us." he acknowledged, Nora and Oscar nodding in silent agreement.

Clearing his throat loudly, Qrow pushed past everyone. "That said," The scraggly, lanky man grunted, arms crossed and his posture hunched. "What now, kid?" Qrow pointedly asked Lelouch, earning a glance from the masked figure, his stare not waning or budging.

"...I shall now personally escort you to General Ironwood's office," He explained, noting Yang's flat frown and Jaune's narrowed gaze, his wariness on display for all to see.

Qrow kept his silence, eyes fixed on him as the pair continued their nonverbal dance, both waiting on the other to show a chink in their defenses.

"Why personally?" Blake questioned softly, arms folding, one of her ears flitting as Lelouch spared her a short gaze.

The others' conversations and hush murmurs, petered out, the whole group wanting a response, a reasonable and fair answer.

"...I'm sure you have news about current events outside this kingdom, as part of the general's inner circle, I'm also in need of these... updates." he decided to keep his words brief. He gestured forward with his arm, leading everyone onto the Manta.

Filing on, Ruby eyed her weapon still sitting at Bianca's hip. Following her line of vision, Lelouch smirked from within his helmet, "Don't fret, my team will join us on a second Manta. When we reach Atlas, your weapons shall be given back." he placated her worries.

"Thanks." the scythe user said simply, moving passed him to take her seat near Weiss.

Buckled up, the dropship kicked on. Ascending smoothly, the hum of its engines was a soft background noise compared to the turbulent thoughts and feelings they all felt.

Looking at the gathered party, Lelouch narrowed his gaze within his helmet. Just how would these new variables factor into his plan...? More complications, more challenges, and a mountain of risks were just to come.

"Again, I'd like to apologize for our early meeting." The masked colonel gave a slight bow, "Though I don't regret our meeting, I hope this is a start to a beneficial and prosperous working relationship."

The group sat silently, but the small smiles and nods were enough; even Ruby was warming to this strange new person, the little bounce to her being proof enough of her hopeful, positive attitude towards the situation at hand.
.....
Crouched low on a rooftop, scorpion tail swaying in the cold wind, Tyrian Callows twitched erratically, fingers rubbing together in a desperate craving to scratch an imaginary itch that refused to be satiated.

"Well, we can't keep Salem waiting, now, can we?" he uttered excitedly, a cackle, a manic sounding noise, some ghastly thing which might as well have been a laugh escaped his lips, leaving his mouth agape, a frenzied smile stretching across his features.

Typing on his scroll, Arthur Watts tried his best to ignore the deranged assassin's behavior. "You act like I expected Mantle of all places to have increased their security recently," He said sharply, a small trace of bitterness in his voice at having underestimated the Atlesians.

Tyrian snickered, the scroll displaying Atlas's security feeds, the beacon and mass of land high above.

"Honestly Watts, one would think you didn't want your home country destroyed," Tyrian chided.

Rolling his eyes, Watts released a heavy sigh. "Our schedule is now forced to shift." the screen went dark as it shut off, the aged man gripping the device tightly.

Tyrian licked his lips, grinning. "Nothing's changed," he chuckled again, clenching and unclenching his hand, his head swiveling around as he sought his next course of action.

With another groan of exasperation, the hunched-over, greying scientist pinched his forehead with his thumb and forefinger. "Everything's changed..." he shot Tyrian a sharp glare. "If we're going to conduct any further operations, then we must learn who's behind these new developments!"

"Ooooh!" the assassin let out a cry of excitement, tail snapping like a whip, he began laughing once more. "Don't you just love a mystery!" the insane, raggedly looking scorpion Faunus crept closer to Watts' face.

Inclining himself away from his comrade, a deep sigh escaped his lungs, hanging his head low. "You may begin with your little games," Arthur consented.

Tyrian chuckled, a wide grin spreading across his cheeks. "It's so nice to know you appreciate my efforts," he started, bringing up his scroll, eagerly preparing the next phase of his plan.

"But I'm serious Tyrian, take a slower approach in this game... don't go about stirring trouble needlessly. This is too delicate and important."

The other's predatory gaze swept to the hunched scientist. "Hmm..." he made his humming noise, letting his smile widen as he accepted the conditions. "Now what would ever possess you to suggest I'd do anything crazy?"

Tyrian snickered, pushing a foot up from his stance, and scampering to the opposite rooftop, leaving Watts alone with his own task at hand.

Glancing down to his scroll, he pressed an option and watched it brighten to life, numerous messages and alerts appearing on the screen.

Looking across the cityscape of Mantle, seeing how much work was being done to renovate the old, forgotten slums. A snide grin crossed his face, "Just who are you... Colonel Lamperouge?"

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Weiss' hand pressed up against the cold, glass window, her blue eyes gazing over the vast, open landscape that sprawled before them.

Atlas Academy dorms were different from Beacon's, more clinical, cold, and modern; the decor was plain, and there was no personality or real character in the room; she felt as if she was living in a hospital or asylum.

The sound of Yang throwing herself onto her bed, a loud creak of the springs and the mattress shifting under the sudden weight of its occupant. "Man, things are finally settling into place..." she murmured, stretching.

Weiss sighed, turning away from the window to look at her partner, "I guess..."

The rest of Team RWBY were also in the process of settling down for the evening, Blake had taken a seat next to Yang, a book already in hand, and Ruby was currently bouncing herself on her bed, trying to get comfy.

"Well, I don't know about you, but I'm just glad to have a proper bed again!" Yang remarked cheerfully, stretching her back, a series of pops and cracks sounding off.

Blake smiled softly. "It's been a while since we had some comfort..."

Weiss nodded in agreement. "It's true," she added softly. "We've been on the move constantly since leaving Haven."

"I'd say we've earned this," Yang added, rolling over to face her teammates.

"Yeah..." Weiss trailed off, not meeting anyone's gaze. Her thoughts were distant and unfocused as she stared out the window once more, a heavy sigh escaping her lips.

Blake tilted her head, her eyes narrowed slightly as she studied the heiress' face. "Is everything alright?"

Weiss shook her head slowly before nodding. "It's just..." she began hesitantly, taking a moment to collect her thoughts. "It's been quite a journey."

Blake's brow furrowed in concern, her mouth opened to speak, but Weiss interrupted her quickly. "But I feel we've misstepped here... We should have been more open..."

At that, the girls knew what she was referring to; it had been a few days since their meeting with General Ironwood and his inner circle, the Ace Ops, Winter, and Colonel Lamperouge. During which, the knowledge of Salem's immortality and Jinn were kept hidden.

"Dang it Weiss, not again." Yang grunted, sitting upright, "I just put all of that out of my mind, I'm trying to enjoy this time of peace."

The Schnee rolled her eyes, "I know, I know..." She raised a hand and shook her head, "And honestly, I don't blame anyone. I just wish we didn't have to keep lying."

"We've been burned too many times to completely trust Ironwood or his men," Blake interjected, her book forgotten as she crossed her legs, "We need to see how everything is here, and if we're putting trust in the right people..."

Ruby jumped from the bed, landing lightly on her feet; the red-hooded huntress had a stern visage, "I made that decision, and if it was the wrong decision, then that's on me," she stated flatly.

"A decision we can quickly correct!" Weiss exclaimed.

Since arriving in Atlas, they'd been treated fairly well, allowed to assist the Ace Ops in minor missions and tasks, given weapon upgrades, and even granted the title of huntress by General Ironwood. Keeping a part of the truth from him just didn't sit right.

"Look, Weiss..." Yang began, her gaze focused on her teammate. "I get that this is your home, but—"

"—You think it's because this is Atlas?" She asked defensively.

Yang's brow rose, "Well, I wouldn't be surprised."

Scoffing, Weiss' mouth fell agape, she shook her head firmly, her hands clenched at her sides. "No, that isn't it!" She snapped. "We can't afford to be making these mistakes. Ironwood, Winter, Colonel Lamperouge, The Ace-Ops, They need to know about Salem."

Blake leaned forward in her seat and rested her chin in her hand thoughtfully. "Maybe..." Her words trailed off as she stared blankly at a far-off point.

"Ugh... this is so stupid!" Yang groaned aloud while falling back onto the mattress, covering her eyes with one of her hands. "I don't want to think about all this, okay?"

"We have to think about this!" Weiss' voice rose by several octaves.

Ruby flinched slightly, her eyes flickering between both girls before settling on Weiss' angry expression. She moved quickly to diffuse the argument. "Look, Weiss. I get it, we all get it. But, for now, let's take some time to better understand what's going on in Atlas before taking action."

Crossing her arms tightly, Weiss inhaled deeply through her nose and then let it out slowly, trying to calm herself.

"Right..." The ex-heiress nodded. "I suppose that makes sense."

"Colonel Lamperouge is in league with your father." Blake suddenly interjected, "Doesn't that concern you?"

Weiss paused mid-thought, her eyes flicking over to meet Blake's. She didn't answer immediately, instead taking a moment to reflect on what her friend had just said. "...Yes..." She finally replied hesitantly.

"Oh yeah, that whole thing. That was weird." Yang commented idly, her tone suggesting she'd rather be talking about anything but this right now.

Blake nodded silently in agreement. "There's more to it than we know, I'm sure of it..." She murmured, glancing over at Weiss, who seemed lost deep in thought again.

"I know my father... he doesn't do anything unless there is something in it for him, especially if he's working with someone outside his circles." Her gaze fell back onto the window. "...He has a reason."

"Maybe the Colonel does as well," Ruby added softly.

"Or maybe they're both just evil," Yang mumbled bitterly.

Blake frowned. "Or maybe it's not that simple..."

"We're going down to Mantle tomorrow right to help around..." Ruby started, "Let's just see how things play out,"

Weiss sighed heavily and turned away from her team, her gaze focusing back out of the window once more. "Fine, but I'm telling you guys now, this doesn't sit well with me. Not at all..."

Climbing up onto her bunk, Ruby let out a yawn, "Just try and sleep, Weiss; we can talk about it later..." She muttered tiredly, pulling her blanket over herself.

Nodding silently to herself, the ex-heiress climbed into her bunk. "Okay," she whispered as she drifted off to sleep.

Sliding into her covers, Blake glanced around her shared dorm room, her ears perked at the low sound of a "Finally" from Yang's lips, the only other noise that of the wind gently caressing the building and rustling leaves in the distance.

Said Blonde had her hands tucked behind her head, staring upward at the bottom of Blake's bunk, her mind lost in thought. All the talk about keeping secrets made Yang feel a touch guilty. Not about the whole Ironwood secret-keeping, but rather her own...

She never told her team about her Raven... about the fact she was the Spring Maiden. Not that she didn't want to, but... It didn't matter anymore, did it? Raven was a non-factor and didn't have a role to play in this story any longer. Her team had enough to worry about with Salem, Ironwood, and Atlas itself. She didn't need to add that onto their plate, did she?

Raven would just be her little secret...

Rubbing the sleep from her eyes, the young leader was barely aware of her surroundings. Her silver eyes blinking, she yawned, stretching her arms above her head, her mouth opening wide, the cool Mantle air nipping at her skin. She felt her joints popping and relaxing, her body easing itself into wakefulness.

Her teammates were in similar states, their bodies slowly waking up. Teams JNR and RWBY stood on the tarmac of Mantle's largest military base; the sun had barely risen, casting a soft, orange glow over the cityscape.

Lelouch and Team BRIR stood a few feet away, Two armored trucks parked behind them. The colonel and his team had been waiting for the group, the former of whom had been scrolling on his phone, while the women of Team BRIR had been chatting amongst each other about minor issues and gossip. Upon seeing the group approaching, they all snapped too.

"Good morning," Lelouch greeted with a slight bow, his voice calm yet firm, almost mechanical sounding. "How has everyone been adjusting? I hope that your accommodations have met your standards," he asked cordially.

Everyone gave him their affirmations.

He smiled at them, "I'm glad. I apologize if we've interrupted your sleep,"

Ruby smiled softly at Lelouch. "I don't think anyone here is complaining!"

The young colonel nodded at her response and gestured toward the vehicles behind him. Two armored transports sat idle nearby; engines idling lowly and drivers waiting patiently for everyone's arrival.

Nora bounced in place, a wide grin on her face, her eyes shining. "I can't wait!" She exclaimed, practically vibrating in her enthusiasm. "What are we gonna do? Patrol the outer walls, maybe journey to some nearby mines?" she speculated a look of pure joy on her features.

Lelouch shook his head, his posture relaxed. "Grimm haven't been an issue in Mantle for some time, thanks to the military's constant patrols and security measures," he informed, "No... you'll be helping with community outreach and other services needed throughout the city; I'm certain everyone's skills and talent will find use."

"Oh..." Nora visibly deflated, shoulders slumping, her smile fading away as she stared down at the ground. The hammer user's expression turned pensive, then suddenly perked up, "Well that still sounds super cool!" she chirped brightly. "Nora Valkyrie is here to help!"

Chuckling softly, Lelouch nodded once more. "That's the spirit," he praised kindly.

Grinning broadly, Jaune stepped forward, nodding towards his friend before glancing back over to the colonel. "Let us know how we can help,"

Helmet turning slightly to look at Jaune, Lelouch nodded in response to the blonde knight. "We'll be divided up into two teams today, two members of Team BRIR in one truck and two in another," he explained. "Split however you'd like, and please try not to get too carried away."

The groups gathered around and quickly began dividing themselves up.

Weiss nudged Ruby in the side. "This could be our chance," she whispered, eyes darting between the groups of people. "See what makes the Colonel tick, what his goals and motivations are..."

The young leader bit her lip, nodding slowly, her gaze shifting from Weiss' own to Yang's. "You're sure?"

Weiss nodded once more, her lips thinning out as her jaw set firmly. "I am... If we learn more about Colonel Lamperouge, the more trust we can place in him. The more he could help."

Yang sighed and crossed her arms, "If you say so," she grumbled, though there wasn't much bite behind her words. "Blake and I will stick together, maybe we can get a better feel for Mantle's citizens and their situation."

Weiss nodded, "That works."

This day could help settle her unease about so many of her worries. And, if it turned out she was wrong... Well, at least they'd be helping Mantle in the process of discovering the truth, she thought to herself, her eyes drifting to Lelouch who was talking with the rest of BRIR.

She hoped they'd find something worthwhile...

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

The truck lurched forward, its wheels screeching against the pavement, the vehicle's engine roaring to life. With Ren and Nora joining Blake and Yang, the other truck consisted of Weiss, Jaune, Ruby, Lelouch, Roane, and Bianca.

Dropping into the cabin, the door slammed shut and sealed tight; a loud, mechanical whirring filled the space as the airlock activated, a series of lights flashing red then green. The vehicle rumbled to life, its engines roaring as it began to move.

Inside the armored truck was a small area where everyone had seated themselves, Roane and Bianca sitting on the bench behind the driver while Ruby and Jaune sat across from Lelouch and Weiss; the pair of teens staring intently at the colonel, who was focused on his scroll.

"Hey uh, Colonel," Ruby spoke up, breaking the silence that had settled over the group. Her silver orbs stared intently at the masked man sitting across from her, "What are we gonna be doing today?"

Lelouch looked up from his device, his helmet tilting slightly towards the girl. "I'm speaking at a rally for Jacques' election,"

"Wait. My Father's election?" Weiss blinked, surprised. "Is he..." She bit her tongue, thinking over her next words carefully. "...Going to be there, with you?"

Shaking his head, Lelouch sighed. "He was originally supposed to, but apparently something of greater importance caught his attention," he explained with a dismissive wave, his tone flat yet firm, "So, he'll not be joining us."

Lelouch could see the relief in the girl's eyes. Her shoulders relaxed, a smile twitching at the corner of her lips.

"I take it you're not a fan of him?" He questioned.

Weiss stiffened. "I-I mean... Well, not exactly..." She stammered, trying to choose her words wisely, not wanting to offend him by speaking negatively of her father in front of someone who had connections to the Schnee patriarch.

Raising a calming hand, the colonel chuckled, "I'm not looking to get you in trouble, I simply want to better understand you," he said. "My relationship with Jacques has been strictly professional and mutually beneficial, but I wouldn't consider us close by any means."

Jaune leaned forward in his seat. "Really?" The blonde knight asked curiously, his blue eyes wide. "You don't like him?"

Lelouch paused for a moment before answering. "Let's just say, his ambition outweighs his moral compass, and his greed and selfishness make him an unsavory ally at best..."

Roane and Bianca shared a look, the pair of girls snorting to themselves in amusement. They were well aware of Lelouch's true feelings toward the man; after all, they knew the truth behind his partnership with Jacques and what was in store for the greedy businessman.

Weiss nodded slowly. "...That sounds about right..."

"I didn't know you felt so strongly, Colonel," Ruby admitted, staring at him with curiosity in her gaze. "Why do you work with him then? Aren't there other people who are more deserving or capable?"

Lelouch chuckled, leaning back in his seat. "Unfortunately, the world of politics is a complicated beast," he stated, his voice soft yet firm. "And sometimes, to do what needs to be done, you must make concessions and compromises."

The red-hooded huntress furrowed her brow in confusion; compromises were something she didn't consider, always believing that there were always options that didn't require sacrifice or hard decisions.

Sensing her uncertainty, the masked colonel turned to face her. "It may seem counter-intuitive, but it's the only way to achieve results," he explained. "If you're too rigid, too inflexible, then you'll never get anywhere,"

Ruby frowned, biting her lower lip. She didn't like the idea that the ends justified the means, or that you sometimes had to make deals with bad people for the greater good. But then again, she had never really thought of things from the perspective of a politician before...

"Is that what you're doing?" Weiss questioned, her gaze piercing through the visor, her eyes searching for an answer that wasn't forthcoming.

The Colonel's head tilted towards her, and he nodded. "I've always believed you can't change the world without getting your hands dirty."

Jaune frowned at the response, the phrasing of such a thing sounding ominous and foreboding.

"That seems a bit harsh, don't ya think?" Ruby asked tentatively, not wanting to offend him.

Lelouch's shoulders shrugged lightly. "Perhaps, but the truth is often more brutal than we'd care to believe." He stated matter-of-factly. "In this world, life is backed into a corner, and there are no easy choices. We're all just trying to do what we can, and hope for a brighter tomorrow."

"That's why we're helping Mantle." Roane chimed in, the young girl's red eyes meeting everyone's gazes. "To make that tomorrow a little easier for the people who live here."

Everyone nodded their heads in agreement with Roane's statement, though they remained silent, pondering the implications of the colonel's words; they knew they were true, but it was difficult to accept nonetheless.

Clapping his hands, Lelouch drew their attention. "But for now, we can avoid any unnecessary complications," He said, turning to face the former heiress. "Your job is just providing additional security at the event," he informed her, "However if being at a rally that supports your Father's campaign makes you uncomfortable..." He trailed off, waiting for her reply. "...You could always stay in the truck. I wouldn't hold it against you..."

Weiss opened her mouth to respond, only to pause, considering his offer carefully before shaking her head. "I'm fine, Colonel. Really, I am." She assured him.

Nodding slowly, the man looked back down at his scroll, his fingers typing away quickly, a soft ping coming from the device. Looking back up at the teens, he nodded again. "Very well then, still perhaps backstage would be a better place for you to stand guard." He suggested.

"That's probably a good idea," Weiss agreed, nodding her head once more. "Thank you,"

"Not a problem, Miss Schnee," Lelouch said, smiling beneath his mask, his gaze turning back towards his device, the soft glow illuminating his helmet.

So Winter wasn't the only one with daddy issues. He mused silently. A few new avenues of manipulation and potential exploitation had just opened up.

"You done yet?" Yang grunted as she held up a metal beam, the weight of the metal pressing down on her shoulders. Sweat beaded on her forehead, her breathing heavy. She had been holding it up for a while, and her arms were beginning to ache.

"Just a moment, I'm almost done!" A worker replied as he hurried to secure the metal in place.

The blonde rolled her eyes, but she remained silent, focusing on her task. Around her, the construction site was bustling with activity, workers hurrying back and forth, carrying tools, supplies, and building materials. The sound of saws, hammers, and drills filled the air, a constant hum of noise and activity.

Feeling the metal shifting, she glanced up, watching as the workers secured the beam in place, her grip loosening as they finished.

"Thanks." The man grinned, throwing a thumbs up, before climbing back down the ladder.

Yang let out a breath, wiping her forehead with the back of her hand. "No problem," she muttered, her tone gruff. She stretched, her joints popping as she worked out the kinks in her muscles. Her eyes scanned the site, and she watched as the other workers went about their business, their movements efficient and practiced. It seemed like everyone knew what to do without any directions or instructions. The work was grueling, but they didn't seem bothered or slowed in the slightest.

"Hey, Yang!" Blake's voice called out, drawing the blonde's attention. Glancing over, she spotted the dark-haired Faunus walking towards her, a small smile on her lips.

"Yo," She greeted, raising a hand in greeting. "How was the patrol?"

"Uneventful," the Faunus replied, shrugging. "Nora's still got a lot of energy left, though. She's been going non-stop since we started,"

"Well, that sounds like her." Yang chuckled, shaking her head. "She's always had too much energy for her own good,"

Blake nodded, her gaze turning to the construction site. "How are things here?" she asked, gesturing towards Ren and a group of workers hauling up more materials.

"Eh, it's going alright," Yang answered with a shrug. "They've made some progress, I think,"

Nodding, Blake stepped closer, looking around the area. "Yeah...It's a lot different from how I imagined it would look,"

"How did you imagine it?"

"More like the SDC factories..." she murmured, her expression somber. "Cold, sterile, and lifeless..."

Yang frowned slightly at her friend's words. She could understand why she felt that way. The Schnee name was synonymous with oppression, greed, and exploitation, but this place didn't have any of that feeling to it...

"Yeah... It's definitely not like that..." she agreed.

The two fell silent, watching the workers as they worked, their bodies moving in unison, each person focused on their task. After a few minutes, Blake spoke again. "I'm still trying to wrap my head around all this..."

"What, that the colonel is the 'Good Guy'?" Yang asked, her voice low.

"Yeah, exactly." She said, nodding. Her golden eyes stared out across the busy Mantle street. "It doesn't feel right..."

"I get what you're saying, it's too good to be true..." the Blonde trailed off, "But, I don't know, maybe he really is trying to help," She offered with a shrug.

Blake shook her head, her brow furrowing in thought. "Maybe the rugs been pulled out from under us so much, that now that someone's offering their hand, we're afraid to accept it,"

"Yeah, maybe..." Yang muttered, staring up at the sky. "Maybe we're just being paranoid,"

"But I think that's okay," The Faunus added, looking at her friend. "With everything that's happened to us recently, with Lionheart, Beacon Academy, and Raven, I don't blame any of us for not trusting Lelouch or Ironwood."

Yang nodded her head in agreement, her gaze shifting back down to meet Blake's. "Well, either way, we'll keep an eye out," she promised firmly. "If he's got good intentions, then great; if not, we'll figure something out," She smiled softly. "We always do,"

Blake smiled back at her friend, the corners of her mouth turning upward. "Yeah, we do,"

"Hey, girls!" The two huntresses turned to see Ivy waving at them, a wide grin on her face as she jogged over to where they stood. "We're taking a break," she informed them cheerfully. "Feel free to take a stroll around the city, but stay on the radio!"

Both Yang and Blake nodded their heads in acknowledgment, the pair exchanging glances before walking off together, leaving the construction site behind.

"Any place you wanna hit?" Yang asked her partner, "I heard they got a pretty nice diner near here,"

"You read my mind," Blake replied, a small smile gracing her features. Her stomach grumbled loudly, causing the pair to laugh. "Let's go."

The crowd erupted into cheers and applause as Lelouch finished his speech, the noise almost deafening in its intensity. He waved to them before stepping away from the podium, his eyes scanning the audience. They were all standing now, many of them holding signs and banners that read 'Vote Schnee!' or 'Jacques For The People'. Some had even brought their children, who sat atop their parent's shoulders, staring up at him with wide, hopeful eyes. Others were chanting, their voices rising above the din, the words lost in the cacophony of noise.

Walking behind a curtain and down a flight of stairs, the masked military officer sighed, a sense of accomplishment filling him. His plan was moving forward, Jacques' position and power were growing, and his support base was widening; soon, he would be ready for the final stages.

Finding Jaune peering behind another set of curtains, his gaze fixed on the cheering masses, the masked man walked up beside him placing a hand on the blonde knight's shoulder. "It's a wonderful sight, isn't it?" He asked, his voice low.

Jaune flinched slightly at the touch, the boy's blue eyes darting toward Lelouch before returning to the crowd. "Yeah... It's amazing," he said quietly. "All those people..."

"They've been struggling for years now," The Colonel stated softly. "Finally seeing someone step up and do something about their problems... well, you can imagine how they feel..."

"I think so..." Jaune murmured, nodding slowly. He turned his head and looked at Lelouch, a small smile forming on his lips. "Thank you,"

"For what?" the older male inquired curiously.

The teen shrugged, his gaze returning to the sea of faces. "I guess just for being here," He replied simply. "For helping them,"

Lelouch chuckled softly and patted the boy on the back. "No thanks necessary." He replied sincerely, before walking past him. "I was merely doing what anyone else would have done,"

"Yeah..." Jaune whispered under his breath, watching as the Colonel descended the stairs. His gaze lingered on the man's back, a strange feeling in the pit of his stomach, a worry that he couldn't quite explain.

"Jaune!" Turning his head, Jaune saw Ruby running towards him, her eyes shining brightly. "That speech was awesome!" she cheered, a wide grin plastered on her face.

Smiling sheepishly, Jaune scratched the back of his neck. "Yeah, I guess..." he admitted bashfully. "It was pretty cool, wasn't it?"

"So cool!" the redhead agreed, nodding enthusiastically. "I mean, who knew the colonel was such an inspirational speaker?"

"I didn't," Jaune admitted with a shrug. "But then again, there's a lot we don't know about him."

Her smile faded somewhat, and Ruby frowned slightly. "Why do you say that?" she asked.

"I... Nothing." the blonde murmured, his brow furrowed in thought. He turned and stared at the space where the Colonel had once stood, his mind racing. "He's definitely got the people on his side..."

Weiss sighed as she watched the crowd slowly disperse from backstage. She had been standing in the same spot for what seemed like hours now, watching the Colonel deliver his speech and the subsequent reaction of the people. The sheer amount of enthusiasm and hope that flooded the area was overwhelming. Even more so was how genuine Lelouch's promises for Mantle were.

And it made Weiss feel sick...

The thought of such honesty coming from someone who was working with her Father, that two seemingly opposing forces could be aligned on a single goal, was utterly mind-boggling. It didn't make sense, it didn't make any sense!

So lost in her thoughts, the former heiress didn't hear someone approaching from behind until they were right beside her, her body tensing as a hand came to rest on her shoulder, causing her to jump in surprise. Spinning around quickly, her eyes widened at the sight of the colonel standing next to her, his masked visage peering down at her. She relaxed slightly, her shoulders slumping.

"Colonel." she breathed, her voice soft.

Lelouch looked down at Weiss, his head tilting slightly to the side. "You seem distracted," he observed, removing his hand from her shoulder and placing it on his hip. "Everything alright?"

Weiss hesitated for a moment, her mouth opening before closing again, the words stuck in her throat.

"It's... nothing..." she finally muttered, shaking her head, she turned to look away from him. "I'm fine..."

"I see," he replied, nodding slowly. "Well, I hope my speech involving your father's election didn't upset you,"

"No... Not at all," she said, forcing a smile onto her face, her eyes meeting his. "It was quite inspiring actually,"

"I'm glad," he said, smiling beneath his helmet. "The people need all the hope they can get these days,"

Weiss bit her lip and looked away from him, her gaze drifting to the crowd that was beginning to disperse. The way he spoke of her Father's campaign sounded so... genuine. She wanted to believe him, but there was just something about it all that rubbed her wrong.

"You think he's the best person for Mantle?" She asked after a moment of silence, her voice soft and uncertain, her gaze returning to him.

Lelouch tilted his head, regarding the girl in front of him. He knew what she meant. She wasn't asking if Jacques was the best man for the job; no, she was questioning why her father, a man who had a long history of mistreatment and abuse and who would sell his soul to make a profit, could be trusted.

He chuckled, his shoulders shaking with mirth. "Well, I'd like to think I know what I'm doing," he stated simply. "Jacques Schnee is a businessman first and foremost. He sees opportunities where others see problems."

Weiss frowned at his words, her brow furrowing as she studied his helmeted figure. She wasn't sure what to make of his statement, but it didn't sit right with her...

"Colonel... you... don't trust my father, do you?" She questioned hesitantly.

Lelouch paused for a moment, considering her question carefully. "To an extent..." he began, his tone serious. "I trust that he will follow through with his end of our bargain, and that's enough for me,"

Our bargain...

"Then... why work with him?" Weiss asked, her voice barely above a whisper, her eyes searching for an answer the helmet refused to give. "...You said yourself that he's selfish and greedy." her gaze fell away from him. "...And that's putting it mildly..."

"Miss Schnee..." Lelouch stepped closer, placing his hands on her shoulders and leaning down slightly so that he could look into her blue eyes. "Politics is about compromise. Since I've taken the torch of Mantle's future, I've made countless deals and agreements that will benefit my city." He explained softly. "And your father is no exception," His grip tightened slightly. "He may not be the ideal partner, but he has the resources I need to make things better here."

Looking up at him, she met his gaze, her eyes narrowing slightly. "...But... what does that mean exactly?" She asked slowly. "That you'll use him just like he uses everyone else?"

Lelouch chuckled, a soft, humorless sound. "Is that what you think?" he questioned his tone light, almost teasing. "That I would stoop to such levels? Do you believe I'm no better than your Father?"

"N-no! Of course not!" Weiss exclaimed quickly, shaking her head vehemently. "It's just..."

"You don't know me," Lelouch interrupted, his voice low, barely above a whisper. "You've only heard stories about me, and those aren't always reliable. People exaggerate things, embellish them to suit their own purposes." He paused, letting his words sink in before continuing. "So how do you know what kind of man I am?"

Weiss stared at him, her mouth opening and closing as she struggled to find the right words to say, her eyes darting around, searching for an answer she couldn't find.

"I suppose you're right..." She muttered quietly after a few seconds, her shoulders slumping slightly. "...I don't know anything about you, Colonel."

"And that's perfectly fine," Lelouch assured her. "It's understandable, even. After all, you haven't had much opportunity to get to know me,"

Weiss nodded slowly, her gaze falling away from him again. "Yeah..."

"If I'm honest, I wish the Schnee I was dealing with was you," Lelouch admitted bluntly, causing Weiss to snap her head back up.

"Me?" She blinked owlishly at him.

"Yes." He responded simply. "You were once the heiress to the largest dust company in the world, and despite the actions of your father, you still managed to maintain a sense of morality and duty to the people of Remnant."

Her cheeks flushed a light shade of red at his unexpected compliment. "...I-I don't know what to say..." She stammered nervously. "Thank you, I guess..."

"It's a shame you and your father had a falling out," Lelouch continued, seemingly unaware of the girl's flustered state. "I imagine if things were different, maybe our partnership would have been something greater. A true force of change, rather than the halfhearted alliance that exists between myself and Jacques."

Weiss remained silent for several moments, trying to collect herself. Finally, she took a deep breath and looked up at the masked figure standing before her. "...What... exactly do you see in me, Colonel?"

"Potential," he replied without hesitation. "And a willingness to do what's right, no matter the cost,"

She felt her heart flutter slightly at his words. She had never been complimented so sincerely before, especially not from someone like him.

"I haven't done anything yet..." she muttered shyly.

"Yet..." Lelouch repeated, nodding. "That's true," He admitted, standing straight and looking out at the crowd that had mostly disappeared. "But there's still time, and I believe that you could be a great leader one day."

Weiss smiled softly, her eyes meeting his once more. "...Thank you, Colonel."

Lelouch nodded, "I think I have an idea, Miss Schnee," His tone lightened considerably, and taking a step back from Weiss, he clapped his hands, drawing her attention. "A way to help you see I'm not some evil man, manipulating the system. I'd like to think we're a lot alike,"

"...What are you talking about?" Weiss questioned, her brow furrowing in confusion.

"I plan on visiting Jacques in his home in a few days," he explained, his gaze shifting to the girl. "I'm sure you haven't seen your mother or brother in a while, so how about a homecoming?"

"Wait, what?" She blinked rapidly, her mouth hanging open slightly. "Y-You mean, like... go back to the manor?"

"Exactly," Lelouch stated firmly. "It's a private affair, but, since your family is involved. It's only right to offer."

"But... I can't!" She exclaimed. "My Father... He'd..."

"He'd have to deal with me if he tried anything," The Colonel replied sternly. "Since Team BRIR are my bodyguards, they'll be coming along as well, we'll make sure nothing happens to you."

Weiss hesitated for a moment, considering the offer. Her father would never dare touch her with the colonel there, she knew that. She wouldn't even have to face him if she didn't want to; she missed Klein dearly, her mother, even Whitley... And the idea of visiting her old home was appealing. If she could just see her family again...

"I don't know..." she trailed off uncertainly, her gaze shifting downward.

"Think about it," Lelouch suggested kindly. "There's no rush, I know it's a big decision. But you'll be able to see just how different I am from Jacques Schnee."

Looking back up at the masked figure, Weiss nodded slowly. "Alright, Colonel." She agreed. "...I'll consider it..."

"Good!" he exclaimed cheerfully, clapping his hands together once more. "Now then, we should get going. We have a long day ahead of us!"

Taking a seat on the curb of a street corner, Yang and Blake sat, a steaming cup of hot chocolate in their hands, watching the city around them, the sun shining down on them.

The Faunus had a thoughtful expression on her face as she watched the crowds of people walking past, a few giving the duo curious glances, but most seemed to ignore the two girls. She took a sip of her drink, enjoying the sweet flavor of the cocoa.

"Hey, Blake," Yang called out, causing the dark-haired girl to turn her attention back to her partner. "You ever think about what you want to do after this?"

Blake paused, tilting her head slightly to the side. "After this?" she questioned curiously.

"Yeah," Yang continued, gesturing to the air around them. "After... well, everything,"

"Can't say I have." She shrugged lightly, her amber eyes looking up at the sky above them. "It's been a lot of moving from one thing to the next."

"I get that..." Yang murmured, her gaze falling to her cup of hot cocoa, a distant look in her eyes. She took a slow sip of the warm liquid, letting it run down her throat, before speaking again. "...Do you think there will be an after-though?" she asked hesitantly. "I mean, do you think this whole... thing... with Salem and Ozpin will ever end?"

Blake hummed softly, considering her partner's words; the pair was silent for a moment before she responded. "Not sure," She admitted, a slight frown crossing her features. "...It's hard to imagine an end to something so big."

Yang nodded, staring off into space. The blonde remained quiet, her mind lost in thought, her brows knitting together in concentration.

"But..." Blake added after a moment, drawing the other girl's attention. "If there is, I know we'll still be together,"

Yang felt her heart skip a beat at her partner's words, a warmth spreading through her body at the thought. "Really?" she breathed, her voice soft and hesitant, a hint of hopefulness in her tone.

Blake looked at her, her amber eyes shining with emotion. She gave a small nod, a gentle smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Yeah," She murmured, leaning forward. "I promised I wouldn't run anymore, didn't I?" She placed her cup on the ground, her hand coming up to rest on the brawler's shoulder.

Yang blinked, her cheeks flushed, a light pink dusting her cheeks. "Oh..." she said softly, her gaze shifting to the side, avoiding Blake's gaze. "Then I hope the colonel is right, that there's a way out of this mess." She murmured, her fingers idly tracing the rim of her cup. "Maybe he can help us figure it all out..."

"I wouldn't count on it." A voice interjected, causing both girls to jump slightly. Spinning around, Yang and Blake found themselves face to face with a blue-haired huntress, the woman's arms crossed over her chest, her hazel eyes staring intently at the pair. "Sorry to eavesdrop, but it was a little hard not to overhear." She chuckled lightly, a faint smirk tugging at her lips.

"Who are you?" Yang asked, her eyes narrowing suspiciously at the stranger.

The woman raised her hands in a placating gesture. "Hey now, no need for hostility!" she laughed softly. "I'm just here to talk."

"Talk? What about?" Blake questioned warily, her ears flattening against her head.

The huntress sighed and shook her head, uncrossing her arms and placing her hands on her hips. "Look, I don't want any trouble. The name's May. I'm a member of the Happy Huntresses, and we're not exactly the biggest fans of the colonel," she explained.

Yang and Blake shared a look, before turning back to May. "...Why?" Yang asked tentatively. "Isn't he helping Mantle?"

May scoffed. "He is..." she began, her eyes narrowing as she regarded the two teens. "...And that's what bothers us," She paused, letting the words hang in the air for a moment, her gaze locked onto the pair. "Mantle has been struggling since the great war, constantly being ignored by the government, and now suddenly, after one man in Atlas shows up, things get done?" she spat. "Things are fixed? Please... It's a pile of shit,"

Yang and Blake exchanged another glance. They'd had their doubts about the man as well, and it seemed like they weren't alone in that regard. But accepting what May was saying without evidence was dangerous. Ruby and the rest of their friends seemed to trust him.

"What proof do you have?" Blake questioned, her gaze returning to the older huntress.

May shrugged. "This so-called 'miracle' he's performed, he's done a great job of covering his tracks, but this city has eyes and ears everywhere," she explained. "We've heard rumors of shady deals, secret agreements, and back-alley trades." her hazel eyes hardened. "And we know he's not above-using force to get his way. There's darkness in this city, and he's at the center of it."

The Faunus remained silent, her brow furrowing as she considered the implications of what May had just told them.

"Actual proof though?" Yang pressed, her eyes narrowing slightly at the older woman. "Not just rumors and hearsay,"

May sighed and shook her head once more. "You guys are new here, right? Haven't been around long enough to see the full picture," She chuckled dryly, her lips twisting into a scowl. "It's not something you can just pull out and show, it's a feeling, a sensation, a sense of something being off. That's the kind of evidence that isn't tangible, but is still real,"

"You're going to need more than a gut feeling to convince me he's up to no good." The blonde replied flatly, her tone firm.

May raised an eyebrow, her lips pressing together tightly. "...That's fair..." she muttered after a moment's pause. "Of course, I can't exactly trust two strangers with the inner workings of the Happy Huntresses, and if you are working with the colonel, that would be even worse," She sighed. "But if there's a chance that you aren't in his pocket, I thought a little warning couldn't hurt. He's not what he seems, and sooner or later, that facade of his will crack."

Yang frowned at the woman's words. She had no idea what was true anymore, this whole situation had become a tangled mess of half-truths and lies, and she didn't know who or what to believe. "We'll keep an eye out." She replied tersely.

The blue-haired huntress smirked and nodded. "That's all I'm asking for," She stated, before spotting Ivy heading towards them. "Looks like my time's up," She chuckled, taking a step back. "Remember what I said, and watch yourselves. Don't let yourselves get too comfortable around him,"

With that, May turned and walked away, disappearing into the crowd of pedestrians.

As the woman left, Yang and Blake watched her go, their expressions thoughtful as they mulled over everything that had been said. After a few moments, Yang turned to look at her partner, her gaze questioning.

"You think she was telling the truth?" the brawler questioned, her voice low and hesitant. "About him?"

"I don't know," Blake admitted, sighing softly. "But one thing is for certain, there's more going on than meets the eye."

Reaching the pair of girls, Ivy spotted the back of May retreating into the crowds. Her eyes narrowed and her hand gripped her cane. "You okay?" she asked slowly, her attention on the blue-haired girl. "She didn't give you any trouble did she?"

Shaking her head slightly, Yang turned towards the cane-wielding huntress. "Nah, she didn't do anything. Just had a friendly little chat." She replied, a slight smile tugging at her lips.

Ivy eyed the woman skeptically but didn't press further. "...Alright," She said after a moment. "We've got to get going, the workday isn't over just yet,"

"Right..." Blake murmured, rising from her seat, her expression thoughtful. "Let's go..."

The two girls finished their drinks and moved walked past Ivy, Lelouch's bodyguard taking one last look at the retreating Happy Huntress before following after the pair.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

The Bullhead touched down at Atlas Academy with a muted hiss, its landing struts sinking slightly into the freshly fallen snow. The rear ramp lowered, revealing Team RWBY and JNR stepping onto the platform. Their boots crunched softly against the thin layer of white powder as they descended, their bodies sluggish with exhaustion. The city of Atlas loomed all around them, its brilliant lights piercing the heavy, grey evening sky, while below, the dimmer glow of Mantle flickered in the cold.

The day's work had drained them—long hours spent aiding Mantle’s citizens, reinforcing shelters, delivering supplies, and tending to the wounded. The weight of their efforts clung to their shoulders, and as they made their way to the mess hall, silence stretched between them. Each was lost in thought, minds circling around not just the physical toll but the unease that had settled in their chests.

Inside the vast hall, the scent of warm food filled the air, but even as they collected their trays and found a secluded corner to sit, none of them seemed particularly eager to eat. The usual clatter of plates and murmured conversations from other diners felt distant, drowned out by the heaviness of their contemplation. They pushed food around on their trays, their expressions drawn. The conversation Yang and Blake had with May still lingered, unspoken yet pressing, demanding to be addressed.

Ruby finally broke the silence, her voice soft but firm. “So… what do we do?”

Ren, sitting with his arms crossed, exhaled quietly. “That’s assuming this Happy Huntress was even telling the truth.” His tone was measured, though there was a tension beneath it. “They could be trying to discredit the Colonel—sow doubt where there doesn’t need to be any.”

Jaune frowned, setting his fork down with a muted clink. “Or they’re the only ones willing to see the truth,” he countered. “And the only ones trying to do something about it.”

Ren’s gaze met Jaune’s, neither backing down as unspoken arguments simmered between them. Before the tension could boil over, Nora clapped her hands together. “Okay, okay! Let’s not turn this into a full-on spat.” She offered a lopsided grin, though it didn’t quite reach her eyes. “We don’t have all the facts yet, so maybe we don’t jump to any conclusions just yet? I’m sure there’s a logical explanation for all this.”

Yang leaned back in her seat, arms folded as she considered their words. “It wouldn’t hurt to keep an eye on things, at least,” she reasoned. “If there’s more to the Colonel than we know, and if the Happy Huntresses are on the right track, we need to figure out what’s actually going on.”

There was a quiet chorus of nods, but no one seemed any more at ease. The conversation faded, the group slipping back into an uneasy silence, minds still tangled in uncertainty.

Across the table, Weiss absently poked at her meal, her appetite nonexistent. The day’s events had left her conflicted, but it was Lelouch’s offer that gnawed at her the most. An opportunity to see her family—to see her mother—was something she had longed for. And yet, Blake and Yang’s words echoed in her mind, planting a seed of doubt.

What if the Colonel was just using me? What if this is another game, another move on a chessboard I don’t even realize I’m playing?

Her fingers tightened around her fork. No… He’s been nothing but kind. He’s helped us. Helped me. I can trust him…

Can I?

The uncertainty twisted inside her like a knot, leaving her stomach in turmoil.

“Weiss?” Ruby’s voice broke through her thoughts. She looked up, blinking as she realized the others were watching her with concern.

“I…” Weiss hesitated, exhaling softly before settling on the truth. “I’m not sure.”

Blake leaned in slightly, studying her carefully. “What’s wrong?”

She bit her lip before speaking. “…The Colonel offered to take me with him to see my family.” The words left her mouth slowly as if saying them aloud made them more real. “He wants me to come with him when he visits my father.”

Yang’s expression flickered with surprise, her lips parting slightly. “Oh…”

Ruby tilted her head, considering. “Are you going to go? It could be a good opportunity to see your mom again.”

Weiss exhaled, her fingers tightening around her fork. “I don’t know,” she admitted, voice softer now. “Part of me wants to… but at the same time…” Her gaze dropped to the table. “If he is using me…”

She trailed off, the rest of the sentence caught somewhere in the space between doubt and hope. Silence settled over the group once more, heavy with the weight of her disclosure.

Jaune exhaled softly, then cleared his throat, the sound barely cutting through the thick silence that had settled over the table. When he finally spoke, his voice was quiet but steady, each word deliberate.

“You shouldn’t go.”

His gaze remained locked onto Weiss, his blue eyes searching hers for some sign of understanding. There was no anger in his tone, no forcefulness—only a quiet insistence, a certainty that settled heavily in the air between them. He spoke as if weighing each word carefully as if he knew how fragile the moment was.

“If there’s even the slightest chance that the Colonel isn’t who we think he is,” Jaune continued, his fingers tightening subtly around the edge of his tray, “if there’s any risk that he might use your family to get to us—or to you—then it’s not worth it.”

Across the table, Yang leaned back slightly, her amber eyes narrowing in thought. “But if she doesn’t go, won’t that just tip him off?” she countered. “If he is up to something, won’t refusing just make him suspicious?”

Nora tapped her fingers against the table, her usual energy subdued, replaced by quiet contemplation. “Yeah… that’s a good point. If she turns him down out of nowhere—especially after everything he’s done for us—he might start asking questions.”

Blake, arms crossed, exhaled through her nose. Her expression was unreadable, but there was a sharpness in her gaze as she considered the dilemma. “Or,” she mused, “this could be an opportunity. If Weiss goes, she might be able to pick up on something. Watch how he acts around her and how he treats her family. If he’s hiding anything… maybe she can find out for herself.”

The weight of their words pressed down on Weiss, suffocating in its intensity. The discussion swirled around her, arguments laid out in stark contrast—risk versus reward, caution versus curiosity. But in the end, all it did was amplify the uncertainty already gnawing at her.

She needed air.

Pushing her chair back, she rose abruptly, her legs scraping softly against the floor. “Excuse me,” she muttered, her voice tight.

The others turned toward her, their expressions shifting—concern from Ruby, understanding from Blake, quiet sympathy from Jaune. But Weiss didn’t meet their gazes. She couldn’t.

Without another word, she turned and walked away, her steps quick but controlled. The mess hall’s noise faded behind her as she slipped out of the room.

Back at the table, Ruby’s silver eyes lingered on Weiss’s retreating form. Her lips pressed together in a thin line before she pushed herself up as well. “I’ll go talk to her,” she announced, her tone calm but laced with quiet determination. “You guys finish eating.”

She didn’t wait for their responses, already moving before they could protest.

Jaune sighed, rubbing a hand over his face before shaking his head. His gaze dropped to his tray, but the food in front of him was the last thing on his mind.

“She shouldn’t go,” he murmured again, almost to himself. The unease from the day’s events clung to him like a shadow, refusing to fade.

His jaw tensed as he picked up his fork, but after a moment, he simply set it down again.

“That rally left a bad taste in my mouth…”

Weiss stepped out into the crisp evening air, the cold a welcome shock that cleared her mind. She took a deep breath, letting the chill fill her lungs, the tension in her body slowly ebbing away. A thin layer of snow crunched under her feet as she made her way across the Academy courtyard.

The lights of Atlas were dimmed to a soft glow, creating a serene atmosphere. She exhaled, a puff of white mist escaping her lips.

“Why does everything have to be so complicated?” she muttered softly to herself, wrapping her arms around her chest. Her eyes stung with the threat of tears, but she blinked them back stubbornly, refusing to give in to the frustration and doubt churning within her.

“Weiss!” Ruby’s voice called from behind, causing the ex-heiress to halt. She turned to see the crimson-cloaked brunette jogging towards her, a concerned look on her younger friend's face. “Are you okay?”

Weiss shrugged, her gaze falling to the ground before returning to meet Ruby’s. “I don’t know,” she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. “This is my home, my family… but now I have to wonder if there’s a catch. If I can even trust the one man who’s offering to help me.”

Ruby stepped closer, her expression softening. “You don’t have to do this, you know,” she murmured. “If you’re not comfortable—”

“It’s not about being comfortable,” Weiss interjected. “It’s about doing the right thing.” She looked out over the city, the lights of Atlas shining like a sea of stars beneath them. “My mother, Winter, Whitley…”

She trailed off, her jaw tensing as she struggled to articulate the emotions roiling inside her.

“If there’s even a chance he could hurt them,” she continued, her voice growing stronger, “if there’s any possibility that they could be in danger because of something we’re doing here… then I owe it to them to find out.” Her hands balled into fists at her sides. “To make sure they’ll be safe.”

Ruby watched her silently for a moment, her silver eyes searching Weiss’s face. Then, slowly, she nodded. “I understand,” she murmured. She reached out and took one of Weiss’s hands in hers, giving it a reassuring squeeze. “And whatever you decide, we’re with you. All of us.”

Despite the cold night air, Weiss felt a surge of warmth in her chest. She returned the gesture, a faint, grateful smile gracing her lips. “Thanks, Ruby…”

With one last squeeze, Ruby released Weiss’ hand, taking a step back. “We've got time to think about it, at least,” she said softly. “The Colonel’s visit to your family isn’t for a few days, right?”

Weiss nodded, her brow furrowing in thought. “That’s what he told me…”

“Then let’s use that time to figure out the best approach.”

The younger girl smiled brightly, her optimism infectious. Weiss found herself unable to resist the pull of hope, her doubts temporarily pushed aside.

She nodded once more, this time with a hint of resolve. “Yeah,” she agreed. “We’ll figure it out.”

Ruby grinned in response, and the two girls stood in silence for a moment before turning to make their way back to their friends.

“…Thank you…” The white-haired girl murmured as they walked through the courtyard.

Lelouch stepped out of the communications room, the heavy steel door sliding shut behind him with a muted thunk. The dimly lit corridor of Fort Arrowfell stretched before him, a long passage of cold, unyielding metal. Overhead, fluorescent lights flickered intermittently, casting erratic shadows along the walls, giving the space an almost oppressive atmosphere. The rhythmic clack of his polished boots against the grated floor echoed softly, accompanied by the lighter steps of Team BRIR as they followed closely behind.

At either end of the hall, guards stood rigid, their rifles held in disciplined grips, eyes scanning for any sign of trouble. They remained motionless as Lelouch and his subordinates passed, their presence a silent yet constant reminder of the ever-present vigilance within the fortress. Despite their numbers, the hallway felt eerily hollow, its silence only broken by the steady cadence of movement.

Ivy walked beside him, her whip tapping against the grated flooring with each step. The sound was sharp, punctuating the quiet like the ticking of an unseen clock. Her gaze flickered toward her commander, her expression composed but edged with curiosity.

"So, Colonel," she began, tilting her head slightly, "we’re not doing anything about those Happy Huntresses?"

Lelouch didn’t break stride. His posture remained upright, his expression unreadable behind his signature mask. "It wouldn’t be prudent at the moment," he replied, his voice measured, cool as ever.

Ivy’s grip on her whip tightened, her brow furrowing as she pressed, "But they’re causing trouble. If we let them continue unchecked, who knows what kind of damage they could do?"

"Perhaps," Lelouch admitted with a slight nod, "but dealing with them now would be a miscalculation. Our primary focus must remain on Atlas and Mantle." He gestured subtly to their surroundings, the stark walls and the ever-watchful guards. "We stand on the precipice of something far greater than the meddling of a few misguided vigilantes. To move against them prematurely would risk drawing unnecessary attention, inviting scrutiny that we cannot afford—not yet."

Ivy fell silent, her mind working through his words. She knew he was meticulous, every move a carefully placed step in a larger game. Even so, unease settled in her gut, a whisper of doubt she couldn’t quite shake. But this wasn’t the time to challenge him.

Ruda, walking just behind them, folded her arms and raised an eyebrow. "So one of them’s trying to stir the pot with the new blood," she remarked, her voice casual but edged with interest. "Think that’s gonna be a problem?"

Lelouch let out a soft exhale, not quite a laugh but something close. "May Marigold has always been bold in defying authority," he mused. "It’s no surprise she would attempt to turn Team RWBY against me, especially given her disdain for the military and Robyn Hill’s declining support."

Ruda gave a thoughtful hum, her amber eyes flicking between Ivy and Lelouch. "And you’re not worried about what she might tell them? If she plants the right seeds of doubt, she could undermine everything we’ve built. We need the people on our side if we want to keep Mantle stable. If they start questioning things too much…"

Lelouch waved a dismissive hand, his voice as calm as ever. "Let her try," he said simply. "I have been thorough, precise. She may suspect, but suspicion alone is meaningless without proof. She has nothing but conjecture, and I have ensured that any trail leading back to us is buried beneath layers of misdirection."

He turned his gaze forward, the faintest edge of amusement curling in his tone. "Besides," he continued, "the pieces are already moving. Even if they were to realize the truth, by the time they see what’s really at stake… it will be far too late for them to stop it."

Lelouch halted before the towering steel doors at the end of the corridor, their imposing presence a testament to the significance of what lay beyond. With a press of the button on the side panel, a sharp beep rang out, followed by the mechanical hiss of the doors unlocking. The reinforced metal slid apart, revealing a vast chamber bathed in the cool glow of overhead monitors. Without hesitation, he stepped inside, Team BRIR following closely behind as the doors sealed shut behind them with an air of finality.

The room was a command center, its walls lined with computer terminals manned by technicians diligently monitoring streams of data. Along the far wall, an expansive glass window overlooked the hangar below, a cavernous space shrouded in shadows. The only movement came from scattered personnel moving through the darkness, their figures barely discernible against the vast silhouettes of dormant war machines.

At a nod from Lelouch, a stationed technician flicked a series of switches, sending a ripple of energy through the hangar. One by one, the overhead lights hummed to life, illuminating the chamber in stark brilliance. Before them stood row upon row of completed Knightmare Frames—sleek, black exoskeletal titans, their reinforced plating gleaming under the artificial glow. The machines loomed in perfect formation, an army of steel waiting in eerie silence.

Stepping closer to the window, Lelouch took in the sight with quiet satisfaction. These were no longer mere blueprints or half-finished models. Each unit had been fine-tuned to perfection, their designs honed through trial and error, every flaw meticulously eradicated. Months of relentless effort had brought them to this moment. What stood before him was not just an arsenal, but a testament to vision, ingenuity, and the sheer will to dominate.

A technician approached, offering a data pad with the latest reports. Lelouch accepted it without a word, his keen eyes scanning through the figures: operational readiness, deployment logistics, projected combat efficiency. The numbers exceeded expectations. They were ahead of schedule—precisely as planned. Soon, these machines would sweep across the Kingdom of Atlas and beyond, not merely as weapons, but as harbingers of a new military order.

Turning, he extended the data pad toward Bianca. “You four will begin training immediately,” he instructed, his voice carrying the weight of command. “Mastering these units is non-negotiable. They are not just tools but extensions of our strategy. If we are to wield them effectively, we must do so without hesitation.”

Bianca stepped forward, accepting the datapad with a measured grip. Her blue eyes flickered across the statistics before she exhaled sharply, her jaw tightening. “Is that necessary?” she asked, her voice uncharacteristically taut. “We’ve handled ourselves just fine without them. Are you saying our skills aren’t enough anymore?”

Lelouch’s answer was immediate, his tone as unwavering as his gaze. “This is not about adequacy, but evolution. The battlefield is shifting, and we must evolve with it. Strength alone does not ensure victory—adaptation does. These Knightmares are more than just machines; they are the next step in our superiority.”

He met her gaze directly, his expression unreadable behind his mask but no less commanding. “Do not mistake this for doubt in your capabilities, Bianca. On the contrary, I am entrusting this responsibility to you because I recognize your value. I expect nothing less than excellence, and I know you will deliver.”

A heavy silence lingered before Roane spoke, her voice measured. “But Colonel, we’re your bodyguards. Our priority is you, not piloting war machines.” Her furrowed brow betrayed a flicker of concern.

Lelouch inclined his head slightly, acknowledging the point. “True. But understand this: these Knightmares are not merely weapons; they are shields as well. Their presence alone fortifies our position, serving as both a deterrent and a safeguard. If utilized correctly, they will reinforce our security, not detract from it. Think of them as extensions of your protection—an added layer between us and any threat that dares to challenge our authority.”

Team BRIR exchanged glances, the weight of his words settling over them. Unspoken doubts flickered in their expressions, but Bianca’s initial skepticism slowly gave way to reluctant acceptance. Finally, she nodded. “Understood, Colonel. We’ll begin training immediately.”

Lelouch studied her for a moment longer before shifting his gaze back to the hangar. The technicians below continued their preparations with precise efficiency, the symphony of engineering and logistics unfolding seamlessly.

“Once you have familiarized yourselves, you will oversee training for others,” he continued, his voice edged with calculation. “Only those who score an eighty-five or higher in simulations will be permitted to pilot them. These machines will not fall into unworthy hands.”

A smirk tugged at Ivy’s lips as she folded her arms, her gaze sweeping over the rows of Knightmares. “So we’re forming a Knightmare Corps now?” she mused. “Things are about to get a lot more interesting around here. I’m looking forward to taking one of these out for a real test run.”

Lelouch remained motionless, his eyes fixed on the towering machines. “This is not just about maintaining control,” he murmured, his tone distant but resolute. “It’s about dominance. With these at our disposal, our influence will extend beyond Mantle, beyond Atlas. These are not merely weapons; they are symbols. And in the battles to come, symbols carry power far beyond steel and fire.”

His words hung in the air like a decree, their gravity undeniable. Bianca, twirling the data pad between her fingers, exhaled and rolled her shoulders. “Alright then,” she said, her voice lighter, more resolute. “We’ve got work to do. Let’s get started.”

With that, she pivoted on her heel, her stride purposeful as she led the way. The rest of Team BRIR exchanged glances before following, their footsteps fading into the hum of the command center.

Lelouch remained where he stood, unmoving, his mind already several steps ahead. The pieces were falling into place. Soon, the true game would begin in earnest. He could feel it—the momentum, the inevitability of what was to come. The world was shifting, and he would be the one to dictate its course.

A slow, knowing smile ghosted across his lips as he watched the Knightmares below.

Everything was proceeding exactly as planned.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Drifting through the harsh Solitas snow, four Knighmares made their way across the landscape, their movements precise and controlled, leaving deep tracks in their wake. The surrounding terrain was barren, the trees stripped bare and frost-covered, casting an almost otherworldly atmosphere over the scene. Above, the sky loomed grey and oppressive, heavy with the threat of more snowfall.

Bianca, nestled within her Sutherland Paladin, exhaled deliberately, her breath forming a faint mist in the cold cockpit. Her fingers danced over the controls, maneuvering her unit with practiced ease. "Training or not," she mused aloud, her voice carrying the tell-tale edge of anticipation, "this feels more like an actual mission." A hint of amusement colored her words as a small grin tugged at her lips.

Ivy, in her Knightmare, responded with a sharp laugh, her tone laced with eagerness. "Yeah, I'm itching to see what these beasts can do. The simulations were impressive, but there's nothing quite like field testing." Her voice was tinged with an almost feral excitement, a hunger for action that was unmistakable.

Roane's voice cut through the chatter, firm and grounding. "Stay focused. This is serious. We're not just dealing with random targets here; we're preparing to engage actual threats." She adjusted her controls, the movement of her Sutherland Paladin echoing her resolve.

A chuckle from Ruda filled the comms, a hint of amusement in her tone. "Relax, Roane. I think we've all got a good handle on these new toys. Pretty soon, we'll be ready to take on the world." She maneuvered her unit forward, a slight waver in its step betraying the machine's unfamiliarity with its pilot. "Though gotta say," she added, her voice slightly strained, "getting the hang of this is gonna take some time."

Ivy's laugh rang out again, this time tinged with a touch of smugness. "You're just upset you won't be doing your usual acrobatic nonsense in one of these, huh?"

Bianca sighed lightly, her fingers tapping a light rhythm against her console. "Can we keep the banter to a minimum? We've got a mission to focus on here." Her tone was firm yet patient, a subtle reminder of the seriousness of their situation. "We're nearing the negative orb's deployment coordinates."

As the four Knightmares approached the designated location, the landscape shifted subtly. The snow beneath their feet gave way to a more rugged, uneven terrain, and the barren trees grew sparse, their gnarled branches reaching upward like skeletal hands.

Bianca's Sutherland took point, its sensors scanning the area as they moved forward. "Alright," she announced, her voice taking on a more serious edge, "everyone, keep your eyes peeled. We don't know what kind of opposition we're going to face. Roane, stay on my six. Ruda, Ivy, you cover our flanks. Let's do this right."

The others echoed their affirmatives, their units moving into formation with practiced precision.

As they advanced, a Megoliath and a pack of Beowolves were seen circling the deployed device, guarding the Negative Orb in the distance.

The Grimm turned towards the approaching Sutherlands, the Megoliath's massive body lumbering forward to meet the new threat, the pack fanning out around it in a clear display of aggression.

"Looks like we've got their attention," Bianca remarked dryly. She adjusted her controls, the Sutherland's weapons humming to life. "Let's show them what these Knightmares can do." With that, she sped forward, leading the charge.

Roane moved in sync with Bianca, her Sutherland's Landspinners spinning up, carving a path through the snow and ice. Ivy and Ruda broke off, their units flanking the central duo, their movements a well-coordinated dance of metal and firepower.

As the first Beowolf leaped forward, Bianca's Sutherland reacted with surprising speed. Tonfas swung out, their edges glowing with energy, slicing through the Grimm with a clean, efficient motion. The beast evaporated into a cloud of dark smoke, but there was no time to celebrate as another took its place.

"Watch your flanks!" Bianca shouted, her voice echoing over the comms.

Ivy's unit rolled to the side, narrowly avoiding a Megoliath's heavy stomp. Twirling her joystick, she deftly shot a slash harken, the projectile slamming into the massive Grimm's side anchoring itself. Then, with a press of a trigger, Ivy engaged the retraction, pulling her Knightmare forward into a swift, low kick. The blow hit solid, and the Megoliath stumbled back.

Roane's Sutherland was a blur, its Landspinners carving deep furrows in the snow as she weaved between the Beowolves. Dust-infused machine gun fire rained down from her Knightmare, cutting a swath through the pack.

"Keep the pressure up!" Roane urged. "We can't let them get organized!"

Bianca's unit lunged at a nearby Beowolf, its tonfas flashing in the dim light. "Don't worry about that," she grunted, her Knightmare sending the Grimm tumbling back with a powerful strike. "Just keep moving!"

The Megoliath, recovering from Ivy's attack, roared in defiance, charging towards Bianca's unit. Ruda, recognizing the opportunity, moved swiftly. Shooting two slash harkens from her unit's forearms, she struck the Megoliath on its large tusk from the side, causing the giant to stumble and crash to the ground.

"Bullseye!" Ruda whooped, her triumphant shout echoing over the comms.

The four Knightmares converged on the fallen Megoliath, their coordinated assault relentless. A mix of rocket launcher and assault rifle fire rained down on the creature, its thick hide smoldering under the onslaught.

As the dust settled, black smoke rose from the fallen Megoliath, its body dissolving into nothingness. Around them, the last of the Beowolves fell to the ground, their forms disintegrating into the ether.

Bianca exhaled deeply, her eyes scanning the area. "Is that the last of them?"

Ivy's unit moved to stand next to her, the cockpit hatch opening with a hiss. The green-haired girl leaned out, surveying the aftermath. "Looks like it." She smirked. "And not a scratch on us. Not bad for a training mission."

Ruda's voice cut in, her tone light. "Training? I think we just proved these Knightmares are ready for the real deal. This was a cakewalk."

Roane's unit stood nearby, the other woman's voice carrying a note of caution. "Don't underestimate the Grimm. Just because we handled these doesn't mean we can afford to be careless." Her eyes were fixed on the distant, ominous shape of the Negative Orb, its dark aura a stark contrast to the surrounding snow. "Let's destroy the evidence and report back to the Colonel."

"Roger that," Bianca confirmed, her Sutherland's armament shifting, aiming towards the Negative Orb. The other three Knightmares followed suit, their cannons trained on the device. With a synchronized squeeze of their triggers, a barrage of gunfire and missiles erupted, reducing the artifact to scattered, burning fragments in an instant.

As the smoke cleared, Bianca turned her Sutherland around, leading the group back the way they came. "Alright team, mission accomplished. The nearest Crystal Nexus is two clicks north. Let's move out."

With a unanimous affirmative, the four Sutherlands departed, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. The landscape fell silent once more as the snow began to fall, obscuring their tracks and erasing the signs of conflict that had just unfolded.

Weiss sighed heavily, her hand resting on the door to her sister's office within the Atlas Academy. The white-haired girl hesitated for a moment before rapping her knuckles firmly against the wooden surface. A soft yet authoritative voice resonated from the other side. "Enter."

Pushing the door open, she stepped into the room. Her sister, Winter, looked through documents at her desk, a stack of paperwork in front of her. She looked up, her eyes locking onto her younger sibling's.

"Weiss," Winter acknowledged her, surprised by the unexpected visit. "What brings you here?"

"I..." Weiss paused, uncertain how to broach the topic she'd come to discuss. "The Colonel invited me to accompany him to our estate... to see mother... and father."

Winter's expression hardened, her brows drawing together. "I see," she responded curtly, leaning back in her chair and folding her arms across her chest.

Weiss fidgeted, her discomfort evident. "I wanted to ask your opinion. Do you... think it's a good idea?" Her words were hesitant, her voice uncharacteristically soft.

A heavy silence lingered in the air between them for several long moments, the only sound the gentle rustling of paper as Winter shifted a file on her desk. Then, she met Weiss' gaze, her eyes searching.

"This isn't about that man we call a father, is it?" she finally asked, her voice steady, her eyes unwavering. She gestured to the seat opposite her, an invitation. "Sit, Weiss."

Weiss stepped forward, settling into the offered chair, her posture straight and poised, a mirror of her sister's composure.

“No," the younger sister admitted, her gaze falling to her lap before returning to meet Winter's. "It's about the Colonel. He's... been kind to me, respectful, but I just want to make sure he's not taking advantage of me, that he's truly genuine."

Winter leaned back, regarding Weiss thoughtfully. After another pause, she spoke. "He's never given me any reason to think he's insincere in his actions." Her fingers tapped idly on the armrest of her chair, a soft rhythm. "But he is an ambitious man, I've come to realize. Men like him always have plans."

Weiss nodded slowly, absorbing Winter's words. "So... should I trust him? Or should I be wary?"

Winter exhaled, her expression thoughtful. "My advice is this: maintain a healthy skepticism. Don't blindly trust him, but don't outright reject his goodwill. There's a fine line to walk here, Weiss."

The younger sister bit her lip, mulling over her sister's counsel. The air between them hung heavy with the weight of their shared history, a silent acknowledgment of the challenges they'd faced as Schnee women in the harsh landscape of their family's legacy.

Winter rose from her chair, pacing to the window overlooking the courtyard. She stood there for a moment, her back to Weiss, before turning around, her expression serious. "And take care around Father," she added, her voice carrying a quiet warning. "Don't let him get into your head. He's... manipulative. Always remember that."

Weiss met her sister's gaze and nodded again, her lips pressed together in a thin line.

The older woman approached Weiss, her steps measured, her hand coming to rest on her shoulder. "Remember, you're not the same girl who left this place. You're stronger, wiser. And you have something that our family never understood - true friends who have your back."

She paused, her gaze unwavering. "Keep that in mind when you see Father. Remember your strength, and don't let him undermine it."

Weiss's eyes softened, gratitude welling up within her. "Thank you, Winter," she murmured, her voice thick with emotion.

Winter offered a slight smile, a rarity that spoke volumes. "Stay safe, sister. And remember, you're a Schnee. Stand tall."

With those words hanging in the air, Weiss departed, leaving Winter to her thoughts in the solitude of her office.

Lelouch watched as Team BRIR disembarked from their respective Sutherlands, stepping onto the concrete floor of the hangar. A group of technicians swarmed around them, carefully checking over the Knightmares for any damage or anomalies. The hum of machinery filled the air, punctuated by the occasional shout or burst of static from a nearby radio.

Bianca stepped away from the crowd, her eyes searching for the Colonel. Lelouch stood a short distance away, his posture rigid, arms folded behind his back. As Bianca moved toward him, he inclined his head in greeting.

"Colonel," Bianca began, her tone respectful but tinged with the weariness of the mission. "Training went well. No complications...well besides it being cold in that tin can," She chuckled lightly at that, trying to lighten her mood.

"We'll make the necessary adjustments," Lelouch assured her, his voice steady and confident. He paused for a moment, his gaze sweeping over the Sutherland Paladins before returning to Bianca. "What were your initial observations of the Negative Orb?" he asked, his tone shifting to one of curiosity.

Bianca frowned, her brow furrowing as she recalled the device they had been sent to destroy. "Well...it certainly drew a crowd. Grimm flocked to it like moths to a flame," she explained. "It seemed to amplify their aggression. But we handled it without too much trouble."

Lelouch nodded thoughtfully. It seemed he was going to ask more, but his scroll went off, causing the man to pause, his eyes flicking briefly to his pocket. With a subtle sigh, he pulled out the device and glanced at the screen, the caller ID displaying Weiss' name.

"So she's made a decision," he murmured, half to himself, a hint of anticipation in his voice. He turned away from Bianca, lifting the scroll to his ear. "Weiss," he greeted, his voice smooth and even. "What do I owe the pleasure?"

On the other end, Weiss' voice filtered through, clear but hesitant. "Colonel… I've considered your offer, and if it's still available, I accept."

"Excellent," Lelouch replied, a satisfied smile tugging at his lips. "Don't worry about your father trying anything," his tone assured her. "In my presence, he won't dare to even think about it." He paused, then added, "However, I'll make a few preparations beforehand. Just to be safe."

He glanced over at Team BRIR as they dismounted from their Knightmares. "I'll arrange a transport," he continued. "We'll discuss the details tomorrow."

There was a pause on the line, then a soft exhale. "Thank you, Colonel," Weiss said, her voice carrying a weight of gratitude.

Lelouch nodded. "Of course," he replied, his tone sincere. "I'll see you soon."

With that, the call ended, and Lelouch turned his attention back to the hangar, his gaze sweeping over the Sutherlands with a sense of satisfaction. There was much to prepare, but first, there were tasks at hand to be completed. The gears of his plan were in motion and he intended to keep the momentum going.

A dozen monitors varying in size and shape bathed the dimly lit room in a soft, ethereal glow. Each screen showcased a different image, all meticulously selected by the room's sole occupant—Arthur Watts. Seated in an expensive, high-backed leather chair, his fingers danced across a customized keyboard with practiced ease.

With a flourish, he pulled up a video feed on the largest monitor, his eyes glinting with a mix of curiosity and amusement. A pre-recorded segment played out: Lelouch, standing at the Atlas Academy rally podium, exuded confidence as he addressed a large crowd. His words, carefully crafted, resonated with the audience.

Watts watched intently, his analytical mind dissecting every word, every gesture. He studied the reactions of the crowd, noting the shifts in their expressions, the murmurs of approval. A smirk played on his lips. "Fascinating," he murmured to himself, pausing the video to scrutinize a freeze-frame of the young Colonel. "To think a mere child could command such attention…"

He leaned back, steeling his fingers. "But this is no mere child, is it?" he pondered aloud. "No, there's something more here—something intriguing."

He swiveled his chair around, the screens throwing an eerie glow onto his face. His gaze flicked between the various monitors, each displaying different aspects of Lelouch's public persona.

One monitor revealed Lelouch walking beside Ironwood, the General's usually stern expression softened into a semblance of camaraderie. Another showed him in a formal suit at a gala event, his posture impeccable, his demeanor poised. A third monitor played a speech, his voice resonating with conviction as he outlined the virtues of a unified Remnant.

"Such a complex puzzle you are, Colonel," Watts mused, his eyes narrowing slightly. "Ambitious, charismatic, and... Yet you waste so much of that time and potential pandering to these simpletons. Why?" He paused, his gaze lingering on the freeze-frame of Lelouch. "What is your game?"

A window behind Watts slowly opened, letting in a gentle breeze that stirred the curtains, a hint of the outside world encroaching upon his solitary space. The sound of distant city life filtered in, a stark contrast to the silent intensity of the room.

Entering through the open window, Tyrian Callows dropped noiselessly onto the plush carpet, his movements a deadly ballet of grace and stealth. His wild hair framed a grinning face, his golden eyes alight with a predatory gleam.

Watts didn't acknowledge him immediately, absorbed in the screens before him. It was only when the clicking of Tyrian's boots grew louder that he turned, his expression mildly annoyed.

"You're early, Tyrian," Watts stated flatly, his gaze lingering on the screens for a moment longer before fully turning to face the Faunus.

Tyrian's grin widened, his voice a lilting taunt. "Eager to please, Dr. Watts. So eager," he chittered, his tone laced with a manic edge. He leaned forward, a mere breath away from Watts' face, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "Are we not kindred spirits in our devotion to a common cause?"

Watts sneered, his lip curling in distaste. He met Tyrian's gaze evenly, his disdain thinly veiled. "I serve a higher purpose. You serve your... urges." His tone dripped with contempt.

Tyrian giggled, a high-pitched, unsettling sound that cut through the room. "Oh, but aren't they the same, dear doctor? The ecstasy of chaos, the thrill of the blade. We both revel in our work, do we not?" He leaned back, his body language a chaotic dance of anticipation.

Watts sighed, visibly annoyed. He reached for a glass on his desk, swirling the dark liquid within. "Your theatrics are tiring, Tyrian. But I just might have a use for you, if you can contain yourself long enough to listen."

At this, Tyrian's demeanor shifted. His grin morphed into a smirk, his eyes narrowing in predatory focus. He canted his head to one side, a gesture of feigned innocence. "Oh, is a meeting with that Jacques fellow not on the agenda anymore?"

Watts' expression darkened. "Jacques is a mere pawn, a tool to be exploited. No, I have far more... interesting plans in motion."

He gestured towards the screens, each still displaying a different facet of Lelouch's public image. "Meet the esteemed Colonel Lelouch Lamperouge, a man who has managed to become the darling of the Atlas elite. He's young, influential, and," his voice dipped lower, a hint of intrigue weaving through his words, "doesn't exist."

A holographic display flickered to life between them, a glowing rendition of a chessboard appearing mid-air. Watts moved a rook, the piece gliding smoothly across the digital plane. "His presence is an enigma, a void that should not be. Every trace of his existence is carefully fabricated a masterful illusion." Watts leaned back, a smug smile on his face as he eyed his newest pawn in the making.

Tyrian's attention snapped to the hologram, his eyes widening in childlike fascination. "Oh? A phantom, you say?" He clapped his hands together, his laughter high-pitched and erratic. "How delightfully macabre."

Watts' finger hovered over the bishop, and with a slight push, it slid into place, his eyes never leaving Tyrian's manic face. "Indeed, it's a rather clever ruse. Yet, he has managed to ensnare even the General and the Academy's most esteemed. A feat that requires a certain... skill." He paused, letting the word hang in the air. "It's a game within a game, one I intend to win."

The display shifted, pieces moving autonomously, orchestrating a silent battle of strategy and deceit. Tyrian watched, captivated, his grin never faltering.

"And this is where you come in," Watts continued, his gaze fixing on the Faunus. "Your role will be... pivotal in bringing this chess match to a checkmate."

Tyrian's laughter filled the room, high-pitched and maniacal. His golden eyes gleamed with anticipation, reflecting the glow of the holographic chessboard. "Oh, Watts," he purred, his voice dripping with sadistic delight. "When you put it that way, how can I refuse?" He leaned forward, his face a mask of insanity and joy. "I simply adore games. Especially those that end in screams and bloodshed."

Watts sighed, the sound heavy with exasperation. He took a deliberate sip of his drink, his gaze never leaving the screens before him. "Your penchant for violence is a crude tool at best, Tyrian. It lacks finesse and subtlety. But sometimes," his lips curled into a smirk, a small, dark thing in the dim light of the room, "it's just what the doctor ordered."