Zack's POV
"Today has been the worst day since yesterday. Thanks, Celeste…" I deadpanned as we gazed upon the bullhead Celeste managed to book for us in the morning the next day that was meant to take us from Northpoint Dockyard to Atlas. And that's saying something after we arrived at that dockyard which was a mess as of itself! I mean finding a space for all of us to rest in was a pain due to certain anti-Faunus bias involved.
Even more so with me whose attention I got was much more severe compared to Argus as was predicted. What I certainly did not expect was the reaction to be… dramatic. Unlike those assholes in Argus, even if few who were blunt in their discrimination, most Atlesians appear to be utterly baffled by my looks. Some even wondered out loud if they drank too much to hallucinate me since it was mostly midnight by the time we got there.
As for those who actually respond to me, it is the usual calling me and Blake animals though mine is more serious since to them, I looked like someone took a Faunus and made them less human! Or as some called me an abomination against reality. More so when I learned from Ozma one of the theories of the past on how Faunuses came to be all of a way someone getting a bit too close with animals! Which ugh! What a disgusting thing to have a mental image of a human and some animal going at each other!
The alternative is one of them calling out that us Faunus must be mutating to be less human if I exist. Which is also false with how us Faunus are just a subspecies of humans. The only good thing that happened is that they were quickly countered and shut down by my friends. Still, my appearance is doing me no favours. I really do look incredibly out of place even compared to my fellow Faunus.
…
Still. Thanks, guys, I really appreciate the constant backing.
Anyway, back to the main issue.
The problem is with the bullhead Iris booked is… well… It's going to be a cramped ride for all fourteen of us despite it being modified to accommodate more passengers than it should be. By another four more people. Which makes it allowing nine passengers. Either we go in two groups or we all squeeze into this one craft. Not going to be a pleasant trip that's for sure.
"I already apologised for it already, did I?" My childhood friend sighs out as she rubs her forehead with her prosthetic arm. Yeah. Apparently, this was the only flight craft she could get for us to fly to Atlas. All the other crafts, including her company's Cargo Airship were recalled back to Atlas for 'inspections' yesterday. Damn it, James! Talk about bad timings!
"Come on, Zack, it isn't so bad if you think about it." Yang lazily says as she rests her arms on my shoulder while Ruby and Weiss glance at her. "Zack can turn into his fox form and Uncle Qrow can fly by us with his birdy form." Not a bad idea Yang… It would certainly cut the passenger count by two. It would still be overcrowded and potentially dangerous.
Though it appears that our resident bird man is not pleased about the idea. "I'll be a bit behind if we do that firecracker, though you're not wrong. It might be our best shot to get everyone there without any gaps. Still not looking forward to meeting with Jimmy."
"If we're doing that, some of us might have to sit on the others. On the flight at least." Jaune mutters before everyone looks at him. "What? Did I say something wrong?"
"Not in that manner Jaune." Weiss shakes her head. "However, I do recall from the others that you have motion sickness. Will we have to worry about you regurgitating your breakfast on board?" Good point Weiss. And soon my ears picked up some of my friends giggling out with Ruby muttering out vomit boy between her giggles.
"I am never losing that nickname, am I?' He bemoans while I shake my head with a smile.
"Once done, never forgotten as they say." I utter as Blake adds in.
"Alternatively, we split into two groups." My fellow Faunus explains before turning over to my childhood friend. "Miss Schmitt, would it be possible to have the Bullhead do two flights?" She asks as Celeste ponders before giving a shrug. Guess even she doesn't really know the answer to that.
"It is perhaps with how my cargo ship was recalled back. There's a chance the Atlas might force me to drop you off and submit it for inspections." She says before glancing at me with her eyes for a second before looking back at everyone. "Alternatively… we seek permission from the General himself with him securing 'military' assistance in recalling assets."
I get it, worst case, ask Ironwood to help take the rest of us left behind to Atlas. Might work from what I recalled in canon about the gang being arrested as soon as they arrived over to Atlas before being brought over to Ironwood. "I no likely being called an asset." Nora pouts while Ren shook his head as if agreeing with her.
"I suppose there is a downside in having a larger party." My bodyguard just as usual muses out while leaning against a nearby wall while subtly watching every passerby like a hawk under her mask. She was rather furious by the less than flattering comments I received, especially about the one with a fox Faunus fucking a fox to produce me. And she did not hesitate to tell those people to leave or be punched in the face for such disgusting conduct.
"Speaking of larger party, where's Neo?" Nora then changes the topic as our resident midget appears in her disguise that sort of resembles what she had on in volume 3 was it? Anyway, she still had Torchwick's hat on her head and- s-she has someone's wallet in her hands and clearly counting the Lien inside.
For heaven's sake Neo! You can't just pickpocket people just because you can.
"Whose wallet is that?" Weiss asks first with a raised eyebrow while I could only groan out.
"Neo… I get it that you're used to doing this kind of thing, but please refrain from wandering off like that and stealing someone's wallet. Or else I might have to buy a spray bottle and use it on you." Though perhaps I shouldn't have said that because my words had made my less mature friends giggle out.
Which also includes Ruby whose smile is adorable.
Heh.
My comments, however, did not achieve the results I wanted because all I got from Neo was a blank stare before she turned to a copy of me. Except that version of me was soaking wet, and I got the message loud and clear. "Do that, and you'll be the one soaking wet." But seriously, she shouldn't be doing this, especially when we're going to Atlas soon.
And based on Ozma's memories, they are up on the law enforcement. Even if it's quite biassed in the favour of humans compared to mantle below. "Yeah, yeah, you'll dunk water on me if I tried that on you, but please try not to do this when we're in Atlas, okay? I prefer not having to explain to the general why I have you with me to being with and allow you to pickpocket strangers." I explain before Neo raises an eyebrow at me while still looking like me.
As if asking whether that would even cover her from the law to begin with. Which probably not but having being Ozma's incarnate does come with its perks such as his connections if one ignores the price for it. No matter, where is Maria anyway? Isn't she joining us to Atlas to get her eyes fixed? Thus, turning to Qrow, I ask him.
"By the way, where is Mrs Calavera? Shouldn't she be here?"
"I am right behind you, you stupid blind brat!"
"Holy! Howlongwasshebehindmethiswholetime?!" I ended up jumping a whole foot into the air before landing back down to see the old retired huntress behind and glaring at me with her teal prosthetic eye goggles and her cloak over her! Seriously for someone as old as her, she can be very stealthy if she so chooses!
Actually, how did I not hear her heart or footsteps?!
"You weren't paying attention." Ozma quipped in my mind. I can see that you snarky old man.
"Well, there's everyone here." I heard Jaune muttering through his chuckles while the rest of my friends and girlfriends laughed at my expense. Furthermore, Katharine's busy looking through her scroll with a professional frown. "Seriously though, how are we going to do this?" Oh, right! Thanks for the reminder Jaune to get back the point.
Speaking of him…
"Right! Thanks for getting us back in the picture, Jaune." I say before pulling a bottle of traditional ginger tea I found in Argus before we left. "Take a sip of this, it should help you deal with motion sickness." I said before tossing it at my friend who caught it easily and offered a smile my way.
"Thanks! How do you know about ginger helping out with motion sickness?" He asks next while I simply shrug with my tails waving around.
"Well, I used to suffer from it as well back where I was from and learned that ginger helps with motion sickness. That and I'm a tea fan, so I tried every type of tea I could get my hands on." On the surface it seems like a simple answer but to those who know the truth, they will get the hidden meaning beneath it all.
I was a tea fanatic at home. Speaking of which.
Join the tea side Jaune!
Join us.
"Cool. Thanks for this." He opened and took a sip, though wincing faintly from the taste. "Okay… Got to get used to the mild heat from it." Eh, you'll get used to it buddy. Turning to my right, I can see that I've earned Weiss's interest in what I gave Jaune and I suppose I can't blame her, she and I share a common taste in tea. And back in Sanctuary, they served plenty of tea to go with our meals.
"Remind me to try some of those ginger tea whenever there's a chance." I heard her mutter as I couldn't help but to be cheerful about it.
"Noted!" I smile before composing myself. "So, how are we doing this? Are we all going to cramp onto one Bullhead or splitting into two while Qrow and I turn to our animal forms? Raise your hands if you're pro everyone gets in the same airship." I called out and waited before several of us raised their hands up.
In short, it was eight in favour and five against going together without my vote. I figured that including my thoughts on the matter could cause a tie, which thankfully did not happen. Though this did cause some of us to argue why the latter's a bad idea. The thing is both sides raised good points and eventually, I made the final choice that despite the potential risks, it is best we all go together.
I have no desire for any of us to be separated. Just as what had happened with Weiss and me when we fell off the Argus Express. Then again… if it wasn't for that, I would not have met my uncle and more of my ancestry on my mother's side. Though this still raises another question. Who would sit on who while Qrow and I remain in our animal forms and in someone's arms?
"While I am glad some progress is being made, what about our suitcases?" Celeste then asks next." And just like that, each one of my friends looks my way and I instantly know what was going through all of their minds.
"Just… leave it to me to handle it." I unconsciously grit my teeth before Ruby giggles as she clung onto me.
"Don't worry about it, Celeste! Zack's transformation ability thingy somehow makes everything vanish with him when he turns into his cute fox form!" She announces while I could only groan out. My poor back guys. Even more so when Iris' eyes widened at the situation.
"Are - Are you guys saying you used Zack to carry everything?"
"Well, when you put it like that it does sound messed up but, yesh?" Tang grins before messing up my hair and irritating my fox ears! Stop that, Yang! "But for some reason, like Rubes said, it all vanishes with him until he turns back into his Faunus form. So, it just works you know, and I learned not to question things too hard like Ice princess here"
Her comments quickly earned a Hey retort from my first girlfriend while my childhood friend pondered for a few seconds before uttering something which caught everyone's attention. "If that's the case, this new information would actually make it possible to transport everyone."
…
"What?"
Nora blurts out as we all stare at her. And a moment of uncomfortable silence rained before my childhood friend glanced at her caretaker with eyes clearly begging for assistance. Thankfully for her, she obliged and addressed everyone.
"Well, as we have now learned, Mr Arakan can carry everyone's luggage through… unconventional means. The reason it is now possible is that a portion of the Bullhead is designated to carry all the luggage. Now however, that space can be repurposed to hold more seats for everyone. Thus, why is it now possible to carry everyone on board comfortably and Miss Xiao Long's motorcycle without any problems. While also rendering our previous conversation moot." Katharine explains with the kind of professionalism you see in Atlas.
Huh.
I guess that explains their reason why there were originally nine seats on board at first. And I can't believe I have forgotten about our luggage! I guess it's time for me to become a god-damn pack mule for everyone again. Fuck my life and my poor spine. "Well. Enough wasting time everyone. Just… hah… stack them on my back or something." I sigh kneeling on the floor with my back horizontally before feeling something tossed onto my back rather roughly.
"Yang! Don't just throw your shit on my back like that! If I suffer back pains later on, you'll to blame!" I hissed out upon feeling the new weight on me. Even more so I can see Nerium glancing over us and likely silently judging me for this. And properly Yang for heedlessly dumping her stuff on my back.
"Whoops sorry!"
That was all I got back as more of my friends gently stack their stuff on my back while I can see Celeste looking straight at me in utter bafflement. "When did this become the norm, Zack?" She asked me.
"Oh, around the time we boarded the Argus Express, princess. It was around that time we learned he can carry all our stuff before turning himself into his fox form." Qrow chimes in as he glances my way. "Eh, worry not about him, we'll treat him something for his efforts." He continued on before I interrupted rather aggressively.
"As a pack mule!"
"Relax Zacky! Think of the nice spas and hot springs you'll get to enjoy when we get to Atlas!" Nora cheerfully adds in.
"Do they even do services for Faunus?" Blake couldn't help but ask. "Zack's features are rather pronounced, and I question if anyone over there is willing to offer hospitality. Except for the small few who don't dislike us as much."
"Well in a financial sense, you're losing customers." I mutter which earns some eyes on me. "I mean if you think about it, a business exists to make money for potential customers. Simply denying a portion of their services over racial issues makes you lose out on customers and a rival who doesn't would get those guys." My voice was slightly strained out from the tower of suitcases on my back. Seriously, this is why I don't get shop owners at times.
Why deny yourself another potential customer to a competitor by being racist? And as if reinforcing my thought process, Celeste joins in while still put off about my friends using me to carry everything. "Indeed. Part of the reason my parent's company has quite the influence in Atlas. While Faunus populations only count for a fraction in Atlas, they are still potential customers and employees." However, her demeanour dropped slightly.
"It should be noted that this made us not as popular among the higher 'elites' for associating with Faunus. Eh, nothing a few bribes, special deals or blackmail to keep them content to not meddle in my family's business." Celeste, I know you're French in your Earth life, but did you import earth standards of corporate back dealings?
Or do they already exist here to begin with?
"I can confirm what Celeste says."
Weiss spoke up. "My 'father'," She visibly rolls her eyes, "does all Miss Schmitt had mentioned to keep those against him off his back. While I hate to admit it, he's a highly successful businessman. Which is why his company continues to survive through the controversies related to Faunus' labour work. Which includes offering payments to news channels to keep quiet on these matters."
"Except when it got leaked." Blake couldn't help but chime in with a smirk while my first girlfriend did not deny it at all. I still think that asshole of a father should be punched in the face. Not only for being a horrible person who treats my people like cheap labour to discard, but for being an absolute bastard of a father and husband! Frankly, just thinking about me has given me some unsavoury thoughts on what to do with him once we will meet face to face for the first time in the coming days or weeks ahead.
If I ever by some small chance become a father, I won't be like him. I will do all I can to raise them with the love they deserve!
…
I'm getting ahead, am I? Sometimes I wish I had more time if it wasn't for the Brother's Contingency plan on me… Then for a moment, I felt Ozma extending his emotions to my side to comfort me. "Appreciate it, Oz." I thought before receiving a quick reply from him.
"You needed it, Zack. And even if you scatter like dust. You'll still drift ever forward, tracing a new map for those behind to follow with your fading light and those it touched upon. I feel that we're getting close to a miracle. I refuse to give up on you ever since you gave me hope."
Heh… thanks old man. This makes me feel better. Though this feels as if you took a part of my memories of the stories, I read on Earth somehow. No matter, it achieved in making me feel better, so I'll close an eye to our ever-closing merger, Oz.
"For those who come after." I silently quote with a gentle smile.
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Hours later …
The humming of the Bullhead's engines filled the cabin as everyone sat in their seats. Well, most of them except for Zack in his fox form sleeping on Ruby's lap all curled up. Weiss can be seen beside her occasionally taking glances at her boyfriend while talking to Celeste on the current views of Atlas. Katherine, on the other hand, is at the cockpit of the airship coordinating with the pilot ferrying them to Atlas.
The others were also either talking to one another or taking naps with Nora snoring rather loudly while leaning on Ren who was rather nonplussed about the whole thing. Jaune was inspecting his blade while occasionally glancing at Celeste and taking a sip of the ginger tea to deal with his motion sickness Zack gave him some time back. Yang was also having a nap while Blake joined the ongoing conversation with Neo playing with some cards in her hands and doing tricks with them. Qrow was also on his seat since it was no longer required for him to turn into a bird and sit next to Maria and have a nice talk to her.
And lastly Nerium was still like a statue. Barely moving at all but if one were to pay attention to her hands on her thighs, she's a bit tensed up from unfamiliarity onboard the Bullhead. And the peace everyone had for the past few hours would have gone for much longer had it not been for the radio call echoing throughout the craft.
"Bullhead 6-5. Welcome. Please continue your approach to Atlas docking bay Alpha-24. A security team will meet you there. Over." What is clearly a voice of a woman calls out before everyone looks out to see the large military air fleet surrounding the Atlas. In fact, the sight alone confuses everyone and all could only wonder what is happening.
Except Celeste who frowns.
"What is happening?" Ruby could only ask as she gently brings a sleeping Zack up and leans his head on her shoulder. "What's with all those ships in the air?" But her only reply was Qrow muttering out in both suspicion and worry.
"I don't know, and I don't like it."
"Still, we are here. We got the lamp to Atlas, so I guess we'll land somewhere and get some answers." Jaune answers next while Celeste mutters next.
"Still, I had a suspicion that this was going to happen when I left Atlas for Argus but … what purpose does gathering every airship in Atlas for inspections lead to every single military ship over the capital?" She utters next while eyes are out the windows. It did not take long for Weiss to speak next.
"I'm not so sure either. I've never seen our forces deployed so aggressively before. Still, we came here legally so I'd advise we cooperate with them and optimistically, our questions will be revealed."
"Can we just say that Ozma- I mean Ozpin needs to see the general? Wouldn't that fix all the problems?" Yang brings up which makes sense in context since the two men do know each other well enough, though there is some doubt with what they see now.
"Probably. However, some caution is advised here." Ren was next as the heiress spoke up next.
"Still though, if the general's control had escalated, the people in mantle would suffer due to governmental negligence. And further on to that… I think an election will occur eventually." She murmurs out for everyone to hear. "Katharine. Have our pilot cooperate with them. I'd prefer no confrontations were to happen.
"I can do that, do as she say."
Katharine can be heard as the pilot answers back to the radio. "Understood. Bullhead 6-5 on approach to Atlas docking bay Alpha-24. Please have the security team station there. Over."
Though unknowingly to everyone, she thought to herself. "Unfortunately. This means that everyone would miss Pietro and Penny. As it was in canon since they landed in Mantle instead. Unless they show up later. I'll hope for the best then." Celeste thought on for a second longer.
"Or maybe I could send a private message to Pietro? Maybe? He is responsible for creating my prosthetic arm. But… I need to see mum and dad first, definitely they will be worried why I am back a day later than expected. Perhaps I can have Zack and the other crash over for a bit if they don't wish to at Weiss's mansion? I can imagine their thoughts on them and especially seeing Ray again will come as a surprise for them."
It did not take long for the bull head to arrive at docking bay Alpha-24 and upon leaving the airship, Winter was there alongside some Atlas personnel as well as Atlesian Knight-200 bots behind her. And as expected, the sisters were surprised to see each other again upon laying their eyes on one another.
"Winter?"
"Weiss?"
Only for Qrow to grumble out as he unscrews his canteen. "Oh great, she's picking us up." He then downs his drink.
Though this did snap Winter out of her shock, it certainly did not end when her eyes went down her little sister to see what is clearly a small white fox with three tails curled up and snuggling against her. "What is that?" The Specialist could only ask as the various personnel behind her subtly peeked over to see what made their superior pause for a second.
"It's a long story…"
Weiss could only say with her cheeks slightly red as she passes Zack over to Ruby who happily takes him away from her. "Now, while I know we have much to talk about," She continues before she throws herself onto her sister and hugs her. "I missed you, and it's good to see you again." That caught Winter off guard but eventually, she sighs and hugs back.
"Yes. It's good to see you again and well." Winter hums before breaking her hug. "Now I require all of you to come with me…" She says with her eyes on a disguised Neo, Nerium, Maria, Celeste, and Katharine. Except those five, they will be escorted elsewhere."
"Wait! There's no need for that! They're with us!"
Ruby quickly interrupts while Neo, who was disguised understandably tensed up. Thankfully, Celeste also intervenes. "I am Celeste Schmitt. Heiress to the Schmitt Global Exchange Company. I was the one who brought all of them here because of private businesses. They are all no threats to Atlas, but I must earnestly insist that the five of us are to come with the rest for… Company reasons."
"Is that so?" Winter visibly raises an eyebrow before her eyes end up on Nerium and then to her weapon. "Why? I can tell from her that she's a Huntsman of some kind. Yet, I have never seen anyone wear something… esoteric if I were to put it in words. Therefore, some caution is required."
"Then allow me to vouch for them. For she had played a part in assisting in the defence of Argus days back. Katharine and I had to participate because the city was under attack by Grimm. They are trustworthy and participated in the defence of Argus and thus trusted. I swear on my family's name that no one here will cause any disruptions." Celeste continues while Winter stares straight at the heiress before looking at her sister with a hint of concern and back.
"Very well then." Winter says bluntly before turning around. "Let's make our move now. The motorcycle will be shelved into storage here until further notice" With that, she walks off first with everyone following right behind her while Yang whistles out.
"Nice job Celest. Never thought I would see an older Ice Queen relent like that. I thought some of us would have been separated because of her. And hell, if I know how that bodyguard lady will react to being ordered to be separated from well… our friend." Though Winter heard that and glanced back at Yang before looking forward again.
"It would likely end off poorly."
Ren comments while Nerium gives a simple nod as if confirming Ren's words. And this alone made everyone let out a silent sigh of relief. Zack seems to be the only one who could order her around since he is her superior in a sense. The fact she did not deny that she would likely start a fight made them gladder that this scenario did not happen.
While all that was happening, Nora couldn't help herself as she shifted her position next to Ruby. "Should we wake Zacky up? He's been sleeping through all this." She asks before getting shrugs in return. They all know how grouchy Zack is and get if woken up from his sleep. Even more so is the fact that he's a heavy sleeper so it came to no surprise he somehow slept through the entire thing.
Then again Ruby's holding him, so perhaps that's the reason.
"Maybe? I would rather not wake him up when he's so small and adorable right now. Also, how fluffy he is!" Ruby could only guess as everyone followed closely behind Winter while Qrow could only mutter out.
"Well, my guess, we will be seeing Jimmy at where we're going."
"Likely. Though someone needs to wake him up." Jaune says while his eyes go towards the little fox still in Ruby's arms before Weiss gently takes and rests him in her arms. "My guess later when we meet the general. I hope things go smoothly." In the end, the walk towards Atlas Academy passes by without a delay. Minus the numerous curious eyes on Nerium and Celeste pondering about Watts who is in Mantle.
How to deal with that scientist she could only wonder in her mind.
Eventually, after a cramped ride up the lift with so many people inside, the doors soon open as everyone continues walking through the halls of the Academy. Celeste murmurs out. "Atlas Academy, funny. In my seven years here, I've never been here before."
"Really? With the way you fight in Argus, I think you could be fine here." Jaune smiles while she giggles.
"Perhaps. But my family's town life before our immigration, as well as my parents' reservations on their only daughter picking up the weapon, is what kept me from going for my desire to become a Huntress alternatively to becoming a musician. Still, I refused to be harmless in this world. Even if it would mark me as unlicensed Huntsmen using unauthorised weapons."
"Are you sure you should be saying this behind…" Blake subtly shifts her hand to Winter. "Her?"
"Eh. It will be fine." A subtle smile grew on Celeste's lips. "I have a feeling things will go well." This understandably got wtf looks from the gang on how calm she was except for Weiss who understood just how ingrained her family made their company in Atlas. As she revealed to her, the Schmitt Global Exchange Company has been overtaking the logistics market within Atlas in both military and civilian sectors ever since their business started seven years ago. Everyone seems to forget how much power one can get holding the logistics, which is why their growth exploded and rapidly became one of the stronger competitors in Atlas.
And the utterly disproportionate connections established and investment into investigators to dig up any potentially useful information on their competitors. While also keeping to their guns and remaining relatively clean.
Even by Atlas standards.
"Are you sure?" Ruby could only ask before getting a swift reply.
"Positive." Celeste confirms as everyone walks ever closer to Ironwood's office.
Upon reaching their destination, the general himself can be seen by his desk with a beard and his hair was more dishevelled and swept to the left. Looking into the screen of something before closing it upon seeing everyone arriving into his office. "Please, come in." He requests as everyone walks in while his eyes survey everyone while Atlas personnel and Atlesian Knights walk off.
Though if one is observant enough, there's a hint of surprise in the general's eyes at how…
This group was unexpectedly large.
"It is so good to see all of you." Ironwood greets everyone as he adjusts his pose before his eyes land on Zack still sleeping in Weiss's arms. "And… you have a… three-tailed fox?"
That made Ruby let out an awkward chuckle as she steps forward. "Eh heh heh… It's a long story." But that only made Ironwood raise an eyebrow while Winter soon positions herself to his side.
"Truly?"
The general then shakes his head, "We're getting off-topic we'll come back to that later. Ironwood straightens his back. "When I received the report of Bullhead six dash five entering our airspace with reports of undocumented modifications to support more passengers, we assumed something was off and thus had to prepare security measures."
"Yes, that would be my responsibility. Because somebody decided to recall my family's Company Cargo Airship at Northpoint Dockyard just one day before we arrived." Celeste steps forward. "General Ironwood we meet again, though I wish it was on more pleasant terms." She then bows as Ironwood nods back with what looks like awkwardness on his face.
"I sincerely apologize for that Miss Schmitt. Had we known that you would arrive a day later, we would have held off on monthly inspections on your family's Cargo Airship." Qrow rolls his eyes with a small huff in response while Ruby speaks up again.
"Yeah… Anyway! We have some important information for you that uhh… needs to be kept a secret." That just made Ironwood glance at Winter before looking at some new and unfamiliar faces in the room.
"Do they know what we're discussing?"
Ironwood could only question cautiously before Qrow addresses him. "They know about it, Jimmy. Hard to hide from it due to some circumstances that happened recently. Still, we tried to keep it underneath if you get what I mean." The veteran Huntsman addresses before taking a sip. "And before you yap about me drinking alcohol in your office, this is water. Been trying to cut back on it after some time now."
As for Ironwood, he could only hum in interest before glancing at Winter and gave the command to respond back with a simple nod.
"Is it about the Relics? Or perhaps the Winter Maiden?" This comes as a twist to everyone except Nerium who never showed any information and was too busy observing every detail of Winter and Ironwood behind her mask.
"You told them? Surprised you did, actually." Qrow asks surprised while Ironwood just hums and gets into his feet.
"Did you really think you were the only one who got to work on a new plan after Beacon? With Ozpin gone, I needed my own team of people I could trust. So yes, I told them. The Ace-Ops too which I'm sure you'll see soon. Which is why I'm so glad you're here. Until now, I believed it was impossible to truly turn the tide against Salem. Oz has pushed her back, has kept victory out of her claws, but she will keep returning stronger and stronger… unless we destroy her." He gave one hell of a speech before he looked at everyone.
"Speaking of which, where is the Relic of Knowledge? I'm certain this was his plan to retrieve them all. I did receive a letter from his new host days back recounting the events of Haven and his connection to the Sisters of Twilight. Other than that, nothing else is mentioned. Where is he?" That made everyone awkwardly glance at each other before all look at the fox sleeping Weiss's arms.
"Uhm… He's there." Nora points at the fox. Though this just made both Ironwood and Winter blink in surprise.
"He's… the three-tailed fox?"
"Yes, Jimmy. Prepare to have your mind blown. Or a headache, I don't care." Qrow snorts at the two. "Okay someone wake him up."
"Oh! Can I do it?" Nora sounds far too enthusiastic as she extends her hands towards Zack before Weiss denies it firmly and holds him away from her.
"That will not be necessary Nora!"
"Well, wake up your lovey-dovey fluffy boyfriend Zacky already then!"
"Quiet you!" Weiss lets out a mortified hiss with her cheeks red as was Ruby while her friends giggle at her expenses. "Just let me handle this." She murmurs out while Winter's face twists into surprise for a split second before self-discipline takes back.
"You better hurry, or I'll join in on the teasing too!" Yang chortled while Maria in the background mutters why is she even here to begin with. Pietro's clinic is in Mantle not Atlas… And Neo too was doing her best to blend in with the crowd and not draw attention to herself.
==================================================================
Zack's POV
Mmm…
Someone's touching my ears…
What time is it?
Actually, what's going on right now? Have we reached Atlas after I decided to take a nap? Didn't get some rest last night thanks to the rather shoddy place willing to let us book for the night… Three hours before five in the morning wasn't enough for me, so I figured best I rest my eyes before we reach Ironwood.
…
"How long has it been already?" I wonder to myself before yawning and rubbing my face with my paws. I wonder if Oz's awake right now? His presence would be nice to have when addressing Ironwood. "Oz? Are you there?" I call out to him before feeling him waking up as well.
"I am Zack."
"Good. I think it's time I wake up."
I answer back before I can feel myself waking up before I hear Weiss calling out to me. Oh, so she's the one holding me this instant. "Zack, are you awake?" She asked while I nodded before opening my eyes to see…
Why are we in Ironwood's office already? And damn… he looks…
"Tired." Ozma finishes after me. "It appears the months are passing by, and my absence has caused him to deteriorate. He's usually more well-kept. You mentioned that he hasn't lost himself yet?" Ozma asked me. And why does Winter look as if she swallowed a lemon at me while occasionally looking at her sister for answers?
"About time you woke up, kiddo. You've been asleep for hours and Pipsqueak's been insistent to let you rest until we need you right now." I heard Qrow say to my right as I turned to see him against the wall swirling his canteen. "Also, you got some fellas to introduce yourself to." He continues before pointing his finger at the two in front of me while holding his drink in the same hand.
"I'll let you take over the conversation when it is appropriate. And… the suitcases on my back. This will probably be even more awkward than it should have been." I could only sight internally to myself before looking up at Weiss and nodding at her. And like that, she gently placed me on the floor and took a step back for me to return to my Faunus form.
And
THUNK!
"Ow."
I groaned out feeling the tower of suitcases on my back while face planting onto the floor. "Come and get your stuff guys." I mutter while looking awkwardly up to see the utterly befuddled faces of Ironwood and Winter. I'll need a refresher with the gang on what happened while I was asleep when the opportunity comes as for now…
"This might take some time." I said while awkwardly twisting my neck towards the two and all I got was Ironwood nodding slowly while Winter looked even more baffled by me.
"Thank you!"
I hear Ruby thanking me as did the others as they removed everything from my back. Once the last suitcase was off me, I got back onto my feet, dust myself, readjust my clothes and gave a formal bow to the two of them. "Greetings General Ironwood and Specialist Schnee, I am Zack Arakan. Oz's new… host. It is about time we officially introduce ourselves."
And while I certainly see it coming, thanks to my memories it happened.
It's a bit heartbreaking seeing Ironwood's eyes widening at my direction with hope. "Oz?" I watch as Ironwood smiles at my direction before, quickly and rather eagerly approached me and knelt down so we're eye to eye. "I'm so glad you're here. I didn't think I'll see you very soon. I only got your Host's letter a few days ago."
God, it never gets weird seeing how people who know Ozma would see me. Thankfully before it could get more awkward for me, Ozma spoke up. "Allow me to talk to him. It is abundantly clear that James has been burdened for some time now." Yeah. He must have been heartbroken in canon when Oscar revealed that Oz was not there.
"Wrong person James." God, it feels unsettling saying his name with such familiarity. "But Oz is indeed here and willing to talk to you, just give me a sec." I say with a finger up before allowing the old wizard to take control of my body. And just like that, Ozma is now controlling my body while I remain in the back seat of my mind.
"James… Likewise, it is good to see again." Again, the way of familiarity… Ozma smiles before taking out his cane and extending it out. And for a second, I swear it looked like Ironwood was about to cry or something. "Ozpin. You-"
"Call me Ozma, James. There are some things I need to share with you just as you have matters you wish to share with me. It is important." Ozma cuts off his friend to Ironwood's surprise, yet it does not last long before he continues.
"I understand. But Ozma, who is your host and what is he?" Hey! I'm not just a who here asshole! And I'm glad Ozma shares the same sentiment because for a glimpse of a second, I felt outrage coming from him.
"Please call him by his name. He has one." He affirms. "And Zack is a Kitsune Faunus, albeit a developing one. What you saw not long ago is but a slither of magic which comes from the Gods that made his people."
"The Sisters of Twilight." Winter mutters out, her eyes slightly widened.
Huh, Guess James shared my letter with her too. "Indeed." Ozma confirms. "The letter you received from Zack has become severely outdated by the time it reaches you. Our journeys from Mistral to Argus have… many surprises as you can see from his physical appearance as well as travelling companions. Something that can be addressed later." Yeah, it is rather apparent Oz, then again Ironwood wasn't with us from everything we went through.
Ozma then took the Relic of Knowledge out from my belt and held it up to Ironwood only for the General to deny it. "Keep it Oz. From how you act, it appears you have a plan already in mind against Salem." Eh… not wrong over there. I still need to figure out how to do that damn ritual and what must be sacrificed to do it.
"Indeed."
"Uh… Glad to have Ozma back but… what about the Atlas relic?" Ruby asks before Ironwood nods his head and stands up.
"The Staff of Creation? It is in the Vault." He briefly says before walking back to his chair. Yeah… I hope things will go well enough. Furthermore, I should let the others know what happened once I get the idea what has occurred while we were sleeping.
"And the Winter Maiden?" Qrow asks again.
"She is secure and in stable condition." That was all Ironwood says before Yang asks as she did in canon.
"Stable condition? What does that-"
"She's, uh, not exactly a spring chicken." Yup and primed sitting target. Just like in canon when Cind-
Ozma's eyes widened for a second and gasped before he clutched his chest upon sensing my distress which caused everyone to look worried from what I can see. Damn it… Shouldn't have thought of her… Now it's back…
"Zack? Are you alright?!"
…
"I'm good… Oz. Accidentally thought of that woman…" That was all I could say at that moment.
"Oz, what's wrong?" We hear Jaune calling out to us before Ozma turns to see everyone now visibly worried. "Is Zack okay in there?"
"Zack's having a relapse at this moment. His thoughts were focused on the future upon hearing of the Winter Maiden when he accidentally thought of her." And just like that, I can see through my own eyes how tense I got everyone again. Crap man…
"Get everyone to focus on the meeting. I need some time to think."
"Are you sure?"
"Yeah. Just have everyone focus back on our meeting. Ironwood's about to reveal his plan. There's a catch to it. The resources and Dust needed for it comes at the cost to Mantle below. Moreover, everything he's doing right now is to prevent Salem from infiltrating Atlas because he has a big plan to share. More details will be given later when I am in a better state."
"I understand. Leave it to me Zack. We urgently need to seek a therapist for you. Perhaps James can lend some assistance."
"Perhaps." That was the last thing I said before I remained silent for some time.
==================================================================
"Her…" Yang grumbles before rubbing her forehead. "Damn it Zack, can't go a day without all of us worrying about you, can't ya?" She mutters as the rest agree with her, and it did not take long enough for Weiss to voice her worries while sighing.
"That dolt really needs whatever help he can get now. Will he receive therapeutic assistance soon I hope, Ozma?" Ruby swiftly agrees by nodding her head and hand reaching for her necklace. Something Ironwood and Winter observed.
"He would once we settle down in Atlas. However, right now, he wishes for this meeting to delay no longer than it requires." Ozma explained though it did not wipe the worry away. Even Ironwood is concerned. Even for a different reason. "He will still be present. However, he is unwilling to speak for now. Time is needed to settle his thoughts." While the Old Wizard tried to keep his composure as he usually does, his fox ears visibly sank and gave away how he truly felt distressed about him.
"Now, James," Ozma brings his attention back to his friend. "I believe you were explaining something to my students before waking up Mr Arakan. Do you have a plan in mind?" Ironwood simply nods his head and presses a button on the table as shutters come down outside the window and darkened the room while he then makes his way to the centre of his office.
"Just as you all have been entrusted with the knowledge of Salem's existence, I need you all to trust me. I have a plan. Even if I know Oz will likely disagree with me on this." He explains as a table soon emerges from the floor. Yet despite it all Ozma just gave a Zack-like smirk and exposed a fang before uttering out with his eyes glowing gold in the darkness thanks to Faunus night vision.
"Surprise me James. I wish to see what you planned without me so far."
"Really?" Ironwood couldn't help himself as he paused halfway.
"Yes, my time with Mr Arakan had influenced me. I've learned things that altered my perspective on my previous actions. But I figured I'll let you tell your plan first before I offer my thoughts on the matter." Ozma continues right as Nora whispers over to Jaune in the background.
"Are we sure Ozzy's not the only one influencing Zacky at this point? It seems like it goes both ways."
"Yeah, it does. I guess this is just one sign of their merger." The blond then sighs, "I hope we can stop his merger before it fully happens…"
"Me too… I like our little fluffy boi Zack as he is." Team JNR could only nod on as they paid attention to Ironwood taking out a tiny remote and pressing a button on it which activates a hologram display of Amity Colosseum, which hovers above the table. Something which caught everyone's eyes.
"That's… Amity Colosseum." Jaune asks first.
"Curious, I wonder what the General's planning with this…" Katharine breathes softly, so only Celeste can hear. "It had indeed been a while since we last heard news of it. I thought it was destroyed in Beacon."
"Well… Clearly it is not and the General had it the whole time."
"Indeed." Ironwood confirms. "When Beacon fell and everyone on Remnant lost contact with one another, I knew our current system was outdated. Amity was built to bring the nations together, and it will serve that purpose once again." He presses the button again, and the hologram Amity Colosseum gains an antenna atop it.
Ruby and her friends stare at the hologram and look at each other while Ozma ponders silently. "Curious… I see what James's trying to do with it. Is this not similar to the satellites of your old world?" He silently asks Zack before receiving a reply.
"Yup. James, here is building what would be Remnant's version of Earth's satellites. However… such efforts take a ton of resources to see it through."
"And it comes at the cost of Mantle as you mentioned." Ozma concludes as he can feel Zack nodding his head.
"Yup. Not a bad idea I won't lie. It actually worked in the main story I know. However, I lack the knowledge of the status of it. Perhaps Celeste might know in the events of Volume nine… Best we ask her later."
"The General plans to utilise the Amity Colosseum as the new tower and re-establish global communications. By launching the tower high into the atmosphere, our scientists believe we can create a sort of… satellite out of reach of the Grimm and capable of maintaining global communications even if we were to lose another tower." Winter steps in to explain to the awe of everyone.
"Off reach communications… Hmm. Useful." Nerium mutters out while Ruby gives her response in her way.
"That is great." She says with a smile.
"It is." Ozma agrees to the silent thrill of Ironwood. "This will make things smoother, but this isn't the only part of the plan, is it?" He asks as his friend shook his head and addressed it.
"No, it will not."
While this somewhat addresses some questions, Qrow brought up a good point. "James... you don't need the entire military for this." Something which was addressed the next second.
"I will for the next part, where I finally tell the people about Salem." He says before glancing over at his friend who was pondering with both hands on Long Memory. "Oz, things have changed since Beacon. The world needs to know of Salem, and your methods have kept the peace for centuries. But we need a new plan to stop her, which is why the world must know of her." The silence that came soon after was more deafening than it needed to be for seconds straight.
Then Ozma gave a reply with his eyes closed. "I agree."
"Huh?"
"You hear me James, I agree and approve of this plan. I've learned through the months with everyone here of the… costs of my actions to keep things quiet and the peace. I feared the consequences of Salem coming out. Yet, while it worked once upon a time, my secrecy cost potential allies when the truth finally came out. Which is why I will tell you this." Ozma says as he takes a step.
"Once upon a time, I held on to the belief that Salem cannot be defeated for good. And I held on to this terrible secret to keep the hope up, lied to everyone that she could be stopped when at the time, I believed her invincible. Until now, when I learned from the Relic of Knowledge that I cannot stop Salem by myself. But she can still be stopped permanently. The Relic spoke of a ritual to be conducted that requires several key parts."
Ozma held a finger up and counted. "One, All the four Relics of Remnant must be gathered. Two, the sliver eyed warriors. Three, the assistance of gods. And lastly…" Ozma frowns as he holds up a fourth finger. "A sacrifice must be made for the ritual to stop Salem for good to be made. Though the vagueness on how to execute this ritual and what must be sacrificed frustrates me."
…
"I agree that the world must know of Salem, but I fear for the panic that will soon come in the aftermath of the broadcast. Not only here in Atlas, but all the Kingdoms. I have the suspicion that your intent with the military station here is to quell the panic, am I right James?"
"Yes, panic is inevitable, and panic brings Grimm. But I believe we are ready. Once Atlas has come to grips with the fight ahead, I'll use Amity Tower to spread the message to all of Remnant." Ironwood confirms.
"But everything will fall apart. Grimm will be everywhere! The other Kingdoms will not be ready to handle the panic and Grimm at the same time." Weiss objects.
"You're right, but Atlas is willing and prepared to assist." Winter confirms.
"Trying to hide the truth from the world will eventually kill us all." Ironwood indicates that upon pressing a button on his remote, the hologram vanishes, the table undergoes a transformation and sinks into the floor, and the shutters retract from the windows.
"Tch, telling the world of this and preparing the war against the Witch Queen is one thing. Doing it while everyone is unprepared speaks of cowardice to sacrifice everyone while you prepare for war. Even if they rally, what happens in-between the chaos? Kingdoms will destabilise, and the darkness will loom over them all. Say what you will about being prepared to assist, you cannot be all over the world at once." Nerium spat which earns the eyes of everyone as she rips her mask off.
"Excuse me?" Winter looked offended and even Ironwood was surprised by this woman suddenly accusing him of being a coward. As for everyone who knows Nerium, it's a big warning that things are about to get unbearably hot.
"You focused so much on the strategic field that you failed to note the tactical cracks! Even if you 'assist' the other kingdoms and ready them for war, the damage will be done. The towns will be consumed by fear and panic. And panic brings death by Grimm. The leaders of the other Kingdoms will have to worry about the instability without the 'might' of a proper military to keep order in check. How many lives must be caught unprepared for this? Before riots and disorder fill the streets with Vale, Mistral, or even Vacuo? They will be crippled and exposed. And how do we know the agents of Darkness will not listen to the broadcasts?" Nerium continues while Ozma looks utterly panicked.
"Prepare the world for war if you must. But the innocent and weak must not pay the price for this. The high ups of the other Kingdoms must be made aware so they can make their preparations, or else everyone will be caught unprepared for the worst." She scoffs at the end of her rant.
"There are no other options for that. Even if we go your 'way', how are we to inform the other Kingdoms without the CCTs?" Ironwood raised a point and before Nerium could argue again, another voice came in to end it.
"Alright, both of you can stop now." At that moment, everyone turned their heads towards Zack who's now rubbing his head.
"Nerium, while I get where you're coming from and raise a good point. Yelling and calling them a coward is not a good first contact example for our people." The fox Faunus then turns his attention to Ironwood. "And General, while I can say that we agree with your proposal, we cannot ignore the potential consequences of broadcasting Salem's existence to a world unprepared. Oz and I are in agreement that the higher ups of the other Kingdoms and our colleagues in Vale, Vacuo and Mistral must be informed first and given time to prepare. Only then can we broadcast and let the world know of Salem."
…
"Oh, where are my manners? This is Nerium, my bodyguard from Sanctuary and I should probably give you my full titles. I am Zack Arakan, heir to the Arakan Clan. Marked Champion of the Sisters of Twilight, Saviour of Argus and part of a bloodline who formed a Covenant with the True Gods of Remnant."
"Way to overblow your titles." Blake deadpans at her fellow Faunus before raising an eyebrow. "Also Savour of Argus? Seriously? You sound like a comic book character and by your logic, then we all are Saviours of Argus." Though this did not stop some from giggling at how dramatic their friend was acting and what he said next made it worse.
"Quiet Blake, I'm trying to make things look dramatic." Zack jokes with a smile before looking back at Ironwood and Winter before summoning Oathkeeper in its staff form. "General, please forgive Nerium for her interruptions even if she means well. The culture she's from is… blunt at times. Allow me to explain everything-."
"Salutations everyone! What did I miss?" A voice came behind everyone and made them all turn around to see…
"Penny?"