In Loving Memory of Micha, a wonderful cat. 2003-2020. And Denny O'Neil, one of the most important comic writers ever, 1939-2020.

Chapter 86: The Promise

Once Heliosia made her request to Fire Walker and Sharp Strike, things moved very quickly as the Knights got everything ready. While the Summer Maiden told herself that she should have stayed with Amethyst to keep her company, she also knew that the Spring Maiden needed time to be alone for a while. However, she was immensely grateful to witness Ruby, Pyrrha, Velvet, Neptune and Penny all speaking compassionately and comforting Amethyst among the pews on the other side of the cathedral. She knew she had done all she could to soothe the younger Maiden's emotional pain, and she could only hope to ease the hurt this other woman was feeling as well, but on a far more personal level.

A short while later Fire Walker informed Heliosia that there was a place within the Kalter Berg cathedral where she could speak privately with the girl she had seen at Elsa and Kaifin's funeral, so she followed him there while Sharp Strike brought the girl to the same destination. As she followed a step behind the Knight Vanguard and escorted by Flame Weaver, Steel Punch and Spear Dancer, Heliosia wondered how the knights would be able to get everything about the impromptu meeting done so swiftly but soon realized that she really shouldn't be surprised with the amount of power the Order wielded both on the surface and secretly behind the scenes.

Since the Remnant Knights were able to conceal their clandestine organization for so long while working alongside the other Guardians of Remnant in their lengthy covert war against Salem without the common people even knowing about their existence, coordinating an unplanned meeting like the one she had requested out of the blue wouldn't be that difficult.

It wasn't long before they arrived at their destination, and Heliosia's maroon eyes widened in surprise when she finally saw the venue location as they emerged from a curling marble staircase and proceeded down through a pillar-lined walkway towards a portal with equally huge open oaken doors that were about four times bigger than an average man's height. Beyond the doors was an open medium-sized courtyard situated among the upper levels of the cathedral, with a pillared and glass-domed structure situated at the end in which a breathtaking view of the mountains and the fjord where the cathedral was situated. Two carefully-tended gardens with neatly-trimmed hedges occupied each side of the statue, and the cold stone ground beneath their boots were engraved with flower symbols, specifically that of Snowdrops which also grew beautifully and gracefully within the gardens unaffected by the icy temperatures prevalent in Atlas.

Inside the open doors of the structure positioned between the Snowdrop-covered gardens, she could make out the figure of a familiar-looking feminine statue carved from flawless white marble placed atop a circular stone dais. When her eyes took in the statue in its entirety as the knights escorting her halted at the doors, Heliosia's mind finally put an answer to the marble figure's identity since she had also seen a similar-looking statue with a different posture within the maiden mindscape when she previously engaged in interesting conversations with Elsa herself while walking through the cold frosted landscape of the Winter Maiden's domain.

It was a shrine dedicated to one of the previous Winter Maidens known as Vasilisa the Beautiful, a woman who had become the Winter Maiden during Atlas's recovery period after the first Great War. From what Heliosia had known of her, Vasilisa was remembered for having a kind, gentle and brave personality as well as her achievement in defeating her stepmother, a cruel Duchess who had planned an assassination on Mantle's Chancellor and with planted evidence to frame Vale in order to start another war.

"Please wait here." Fire Walker told her calmly.

Heliosia gave a quiet nod, signalling her consent. The Knight Vanguard inclined his helmet in respect before Steel Punch and Spear Dancer stepped to each side of the open doors to assume their respective guard positions while he reached out with his gauntleted hands to close the doors behind them, leaving Heliosia in the watchful presence of Flame Weaver and Vasilisa's statue.

Now that she had a bit of time before the meeting, as few people would even think of refusing a meeting with a Maiden when given the chance, Heliosia pushed down her unease and turned her attention towards the magnificently-carved statue of the ancient Winter Maiden which stood upon its dais while being illuminated by the circle of small white lights set in the interior circumference of the domed glass roof.

Roughly life-sized, the statue showed Vasilisa sitting astride a majestic fjord horse with a benevolent-looking smile on her marble-crafted features. Her hair was fashioned to be loose and free-flowing till her elbows, with one of her long-fingered hands holding onto the horse's bridle in a gentle grip while the other held up a lamp which was shaped like a skull, said to be stolen from an evil witch she had outwitted and could be used to incinerate Grimm with its glowing rays of silver light. She was portrayed with an off-the-shoulder dress that came with a right knee-high slit and long leggings with tall riding boots, in addition to long sleeves which had the snowflake symbol on each side of her shoulders and was further set off by a flowing cape which was split into two at the back decorated with the ancient emblems of Mantle and more snowflake patterns that seemed to run seamlessly alongside each other. A master artisan must have painstakingly carved the statue in honor of Vasilisa and it was among one of the most majestic-looking sculptures Heliosia had ever seen. A circle of Snowdrop flowers surrounded the aforementioned statue, blooming beautifully in the artificial lightning and enhancing the overall impression of the chamber.

Allowing her eyes to lower, the Summer Maiden then looked at the name carved onto the grey steel panel set in the dais below the statue, a name she had already expected to see which was already there: Vasilisa Afanasyev. Beneath the name was a simple engraving upon the plaque, presumably the most memorable and meaningful words she had spoken when Vasilisa still lived among her people. It read, 'A sister is a gift to the heart, a friend to the spirit, a golden thread to the meaning of life.' While it wasn't known if Vasilisa had any sisters, the Summer Maiden had a feeling the quote could be referring to the other sister Maidens she had known within the Maiden Sisterhood.

The statue of Vasilisa within the mindscape wasn't overly ostentatious, but it did manage to capture her kind and caring nature. Heliosia reached out and slowly traced the statue's engraving slowly and reverently with her fingers, a forlorn look on her face as she remembered Elsa quoting the plaque during one of their conversations while walking through the seasonal landscapes within the Maiden mindscape. The platinum-blonde Winter Maiden possessed a remarkable amount of wisdom herself, and often served as the impartial mediator should any argument, big or small, occurred between the Maidens. Now that Elsa was gone the brown-haired Maiden knew sadly that a vital link to the past was taken away, and it was another piece of the future destroyed in the bloodstained hands of Salem and Cinder.

Neither her nor Amethyst would ever learn more about the tales of other Maidens which Elsa spent her time with before either of them entered the Maiden Sisterhood, as with her death those tales had fallen into eternal silence. She had become a memory, one of which Heliosia would keep with her until the day her duty as the Summer Maiden ended and she had to choose the next successor to receive her powers.

Looking back up at the statue as she retracted her hand, the Summer Maiden wondered if anyone would remember her or Amethyst when their time came. Would there be anything like a memorial or shrine to show their existence? Would anyone know of their actions and sacrifices made for the people of Remnant? Was there anyone who would cry for Heliosia Ainea of Kyuogata if she died, her own life sacrificed in service to a greater good?

One of her hands instinctively reached up to touch her necklace at that somewhat morbid thought, feeling the sapphire set within the circular inset with her fingers. 'There are people who would mourn my death...but there is one in particular, if he is still alive' Heliosia thought to herself as she thought about the very same individual who possessed the other half of the necklace she wore, 'His heart would break, and he would cry oceans of tears if he learned of my passing…and the promise that I was unable to keep if that happens.'

But she wouldn't give up just because the road ahead of her was a hard path to walk, and her duty as the Summer Maiden compelled her to help those in need. With Elsa's death, Remnant had become a darker place, and Heliosia knew that she would be failing the efforts of the previous Summer Maidens terribly if she didn't do her best to fight back against those who wanted to obtain the Maiden powers and Relics for their own evil purposes. Most importantly, she hoped she would be able to keep the promise she had given to the one she loved…and if that wasn't possible, hope to see him one last time before the end finally came for her.

A knock on the doors of the Maiden shrine caused Heliosia and Flame Weaver to turn as it opened a little, admitting the silver-blue armored form of Sharp Strike who bowed and said, "My lady, she's here."

Smiling a little, she inclined her head in gratitude and said, "You both have my deepest thanks for this special favor."

"We'll be waiting outside," The knight errant informed her before sharing a look with Flame Weaver, "Take as much time as you need, call for us if you require anything else."

"It's just a conversation," Heliosia felt herself give a small smile in return, which she hoped was reassuring, "But I'll keep that in mind, Sharp Strike."

He nodded, paused for a moment and then added, "Good Luck."

Sharp Strike stepped back and to the side to reveal the robed feminine figure who the Summer Maiden wished to speak with, exchanging a few quiet words with her before she nodded and walked into the cavernous chamber. Flame Weaver stepped out and the huge doors closed behind him with an echoing click, leaving Heliosia alone with the hooded girl.

She whispered a quick prayer to the four gods of Remnant for what she had to do, hoping that everything would work out amicably. The last thing she wanted to do would be to either come across as insensitive to someone else's sorrow, or accidentally upset that certain someone which she wouldn't even dream of offending in honor of Elsa.

"Greetings, honored Maiden." The hooded girl walked forward a few steps and curtsied politely, her crocus flower and snowflake-patterned dark grey robes rippling a little around her legs, "It's a pleasure to meet you, Heliosia Ainea."

"Thank you." Heliosia replied in a polite tone, "And please refrain from bowing so low in front of me. I'm not a queen nor a goddess, and I don't wish to be treated like one. I'd appreciate it if you speak to me by using my name."

"I'll do my best." The girl said as she straightened herself and clasped her hands, which were clad in blue gloves, together in front of her, "However I find it hard not to, when one is standing in the presence of someone who embodies one of the four seasons and is capable of wielding such vast power."

"I understand," Heliosia said with a nod, "And I can't fault you for feeling that way when you actually see me in person. I may be the Summer Maiden, but I'm still as human as anyone else on Remnant, despite my powers."

"So you say, Heliosia." The hooded girl replied, "May I know why you wanted to speak with me?" She turned and looked at the statue of Vasilisa Afanasyev behind Heliosia, and the Summer Maiden could sense a fleeting moment of sorrow in the darkened depths of the other girl's hooded features before she returned her attention back to Heliosia.

"I was hoping to speak with you," Heliosia carefully stepped forward, holding her hands outwards a little in a friendly gesture as she softly said, "I know that you're still grieving, and I understand your pain…but I asked a personal favor of my knights to at least meet you just this once, since I know I probably won't have another chance to see you again when you leave with your family."

A moment passed before the girl slowly raised her hooded head, and the brown-haired Maiden noticed she had cerulean eyes similar to Elsa's which nearly caused her to gasp, "Very well, I'll hear you out, but I have questions of my own."

"That's all I'm asking, and fair enough." Heliosia prayed fervently that the hooded girl wouldn't leave without hearing her out, "If you don't mind, can you please take off your hood? I would appreciate it greatly if we could speak face to face."

"As you wish." She reached up to her hood and threw it back slowly, revealing a youthful face with turquoise eyes, rosy cheeks, thin red lips, long strawberry blond-colored hair which was tied into two long braids similar to Heliosia's which framed either side of her face, bangs down her forehead and a light dusting of freckles which instantly reminded the Summer Maiden of Elsa despite the late Maiden clearly having less freckles than the girl before her right now. There was also a snowflake-shaped hair clip of the same design that adorned the robes the girl wore, and it glinted in the shrine's lights a little while sitting atop her right braid.

Heliosia's eyes widened slightly as she saw how similar the unhooded girl looked to Elsa, like an almost exact copy save for different eye color, sporting a more slender build and a more tanned skin color. Another thought came to her, as she realized that her comparable looks to Anne was a reason why Elsa easily bonded with her among the Maidens, because Heliosia reminded the Winter Maiden of her younger sister. She also caught the brief look of surprise on the other girl's face when she looked Heliosia up and down and noticed the similarities between herself and the Summer Maiden, but it disappeared just as quickly as it came.

"Hello, Anne," Heliosia greeted politely, "I recognized you the moment I saw you, you're exactly as Elsa described. She often told me about you when sharing some of her experiences with me, about the happier times you spent together before she accepted the power of the Winter Maiden, about how much she missed you."

"That's the Elsa I knew and love." Anne's blue eyes grew a little misty, and her gloved hands tightened into each other, "Kind, caring and selfless. She might not have been quick to trust, but once you got to know her and earned it, she would be a loyal friend until the end. I missed her too, even though I understood how important her duties as the Winter Maiden were, and that it was likely I wouldn't see her again unless something bad happened."

Elsa's younger sister then turned away for a moment, wiping away a tear that rolled down her cheek, "I always dreaded the moment I learned she was dead, y'know? I may not know much of the Maidens and their abilities, but I know that the incredible powers you have make you tempting targets to some pretty nefarious people. I also knew it would be a matter of time before people like them would go after Elsa and Kaifin, and even though I had prepared myself as much as possible for a day like this…my heart was still broken when I realized she was dead. I…I think I knew about it before we were told of her death..."

"How?" Heliosia asked, an empathetic look on her face.

Anne reached up with one gloved hand to touch the snowflake-shaped hair clip, "Before Elsa left she gave me something that would remind me of her, and so she used her Maiden powers to grant me a gift; a hair clip that she made with her Maiden powers and I gave her a silver-white winter berry wreath pin. The hair clip was made from her ice magic and so it could never melt, not even when it was hot. I liked to think of it that she's protecting me in spirit. But when it melted…"

"…that's when you realized Elsa was gone." The Summer Maiden whispered softly, knowing that what Anne was wearing now was a replica of Elsa's gift.

"It flurried into a pile of snow and melted away. I knew that my sister was dead," Elsa's younger sister said through tears, "A few hours later my family and I were brought to Atlas military headquarters and told about what had happened to Elsa and Kaifin by General Ironwood. I tried to keep my emotions under control, but I…I couldn't. I cried for hours."

"Amethyst and I felt the same way when we were told," The Summer Maiden spoke sadly, "Our hearts were filled with grief and sorrow, for we both know that her death was an irreplaceable loss to the Sisterhood…let alone us."

"And you already lost one before Elsa, the Fall Maiden, right?" Ann mentioned, the tone of her voice slowly becoming agitated, "Killed by the same woman who murdered my sister?"

Heliosia's reply was nearly a whisper as she lowered her head sorrowfully, unable to meet the other girl's eyes, "Yes, Amber…suffered the same fate as Elsa, although it happened far earlier. It was a sudden and terrible blow inflicted against us that none of us saw it coming."

"Then where were you and Amethyst when she was fighting for her life?" The younger Vorst daughter asked in a low voice, her tone hardening a little and nearly taking on an accusatory demeanor, "If you knew these people were going after all of you, why weren't you fighting together?"

The Summer Maiden lowered her head a little, finding that she somehow couldn't meet Anne's eyes because she was reminded that the girl before her and Elsa grew up together and hence shared a very personal bond with each other that ran deeper than blood alone. Elsa once said that she and Anne were of one heart, cast in two bodies, and while they each had different personalities they were nevertheless defined by the other in certain ways. Anne's anguish over the loss of her sister reminded Heliosia even more of the many precious things she had lost in her life since receiving her powers from Aestas. She knew that she would never get those things back, and instead clung to her own memories.

"If I could, I would've done anything to protect her, and that goes double for Amethyst. Even though we wanted to be together, our duty as Maidens required us to be separated. If we had gathered we only would have been a bigger target for our enemies, not to mention if all three of us were attacked and had our powers siphoned then the situation would be even worse!" Heliosia answered with an emotionally-pained voice, "And so we had to remain apart…but while Elsa and Kaifin were fighting in Atlas, there was an attempt on my life by enemy agents who wanted to steal my powers and I barely escaped. With all of the chaos and mayhem happening neither Amethyst or I knew what had happened until it was too late."

The Summer Maiden locked eyes with Anne, maroon to cerulean, and her voice turned serious, "There's so much I want to say; I would've given anything to save Elsa…but I know that the painful truth is that what's already happened can't be changed, no matter how much we want to. Pyrrha Nikos was nearly killed but she was kept alive by our enemies to be turned into a weapon to be used against us, and that's the only reason she escaped death. I know it's not fair, but I can tell you this; Elsa and Kaifin will be avenged. They won't be forgotten, and you have my solemn word that I will do everything in my power to keep fighting…because I won't allow your sister's death to be for nothing."

Some of Heliosia's strength slowly returned in her voice, "And part of the reason I want to meet you here…it was to make this promise to you personally, before the shrine of another Winter Maiden, that those who killed Elsa will be brought to justice."

"And you will do this for me and my family?" Anne blinked her damp azure eyes a little, "Aren't Maidens like you supposed to be selfless and do what's best for all of Remnant?"

"That's true, but I want to get justice on behalf of a grieving family…and a sister who lost someone she treasured so much," The Summer Maiden said sincerely, "Besides, I learned through Elsa's indispensable advice and other harsh lessons in life that the path of a Maiden isn't an easy one. If I am to die one day fighting against those who killed Elsa, and considering the what I've seen of them so far, it's likely I will sometime in the future, then I wish to leave this life doing as much good as I possibly can other than having these monsters cursing my name for defying them. It goes without saying that I have my own reasons for wanting justice."

There was a short pause as Heliosia knew Anne was considering what she had just said, and hoped that Elsa's little sister could at least see the nobility and earnestness of her gesture. Eventually, Anne's turquoise =eyes softened a little, and she replied, "I understand, and I appreciate that you'll make an effort to get justice for Elsa. Since you can promise me that, then your word is more than enough for me to believe you."

"Thank you, Anne. I may be Elsa's sister Maiden, but my own experience can't compare to the sort of deeper connection only you and her shared," Heliosia extended her hands to hold the younger Vorst sibling's own gently, "But I want you to know that you aren't alone in this grief. Amethyst and I respected and loved Elsa, and we mourn her deeply. I'm so sorry she's gone, especially when she brought so much joy and meaning in her own special way to all of us."

Anne looked up at Heliosia, fresh tears in her eyes, "I can tell you loved her too. Elsa would be so happy to know that she was so deeply cherished."

"Elsa, for all of her kindness and understandable nature, deserves to be remembered by all of us…but a thousand times even more by you." Heliosia mentioned.

Anne nodded and said "Elsa may be dead, but she fought for what she believed in and did what she could to fight these monsters that threaten us all. I'm grateful that she had people like you, Amethyst, Amber and Kaifin to be there for her when I couldn't."

"She missed you greatly, Anne," Heliosia felt her own eyes grew moist, as a stab of grief throbbed in her own chest, "Elsa always had you within her thoughts, and her face always brightened up whenever she talked about you and she would share various stories of your time together before she became the Winter Maiden. She wanted to be with you more."

"She is, in a way," Elsa's younger sister said as she looked at the statue of Vasilisa Afanasyev, "She's in our hearts. She understood the responsibilities of becoming a Maiden, to protect this world the best she could. I don't think my sister would regret her choice, because a Maiden knows that there really wasn't a choice to make and her actions would need to benefit Remnant as a whole while keeping the seasons in balance. Elsa chose to be the Winter Maiden instead of a Huntress, protecting others was always what she wanted to do."

"Elsa was a true Maiden with a benevolent heart," Heliosia reached up to hold Anne's shoulder lightly, trying to comfort her when she noticed Elsa's sibling was close to crying again, "She was also a kind and loving big sister to all of us in the Maiden Sisterhood. She loved you so much, Anne."

"Thank you, Heliosia," Anne wiped her tears away with her gloved hands, while the Summer Maiden held her by the arms just in case her knees gave way again in grief. Heliosia was pleasantly surprised when she felt Anne reciprocate the gesture by leaning forward and hugging her tightly, soft sobs escaping her mouth even as the taller and more muscular Summer Maiden gently patted her back and murmured soft words to ease her pain.

They both hugged for several long moments, sharing in their pain and grief, comforting each other as much as they could until Elsa's younger sister and the Summer Maiden were sure they were in control of their emotions again. As Heliosia held Anne's hands within her own, she noticed one of the blue gloves had come loose, and there was a flash of a silver ring with a shimmering sapphire heart on one of her dainty fingers.

An engagement ring.

"Getting married?" She asked.

Anne nodded, some tears rolled down her cheek, "Yes, I am engaged to Lieutenant Kristopher Bjorgman of the Atlas military's 332nd Icebreaker Company. Our wedding is to be held in a few weeks."

"Congratulations, Anne." Heliosia said as she nodded her head, "I know Elsa would be so happy for you, and you always have her blessing."

"Thank you, Heliosia." Elsa's younger sister then looked at the Summer Maiden in the eyes, "If you don't mind me asking, do you have someone you love deeply?"

The sudden question caught Heliosia off guard momentarily, and one of her hands reached up to touch the necklace hanging from her open neck again, "I do, but he vanished some time ago and my duties as a Maiden unfortunately mean I can't look for him as often as I'd like. I don't know where he is or if I'll ever see him again, but I still have hope."

"Then I hope one day you can find your own happiness, Heliosia, and that you can be reunited with whoever he is." Anne spoke sincerely.

"Thank you." The Summer Maiden returned graciously.

"Heliosia, do you mind if you can do a small favor for me?" Elsa's younger sibling queried gently.

"Anything. I couldn't refuse a heartbroken sibling's request." Heliosia spoke with a somber expression.

Anne unclipped the snowflake-shaped hair clip from her silky hair, and pressed it into the Summer Maiden's gloved hands, "I had this hair clip made a couple of years ago to give to Elsa on the day of my wedding where she could wear it and watch me take my vows, but now…" She sighed sadly before continuing, "So when you enter the Maiden mindscape again, can you place this in the place where you Maidens memorialize the previous Winter Maidens? Elsa told me about it a long time ago. Please give my love to Elsa…and tell her that I hope to see her again in the next life."

"I see. I will, Anne," Heliosia promised solemnly as she closed her fingers over the snowflake hair clip, "And thank you for coming here and hearing me out."

"Thank you for giving me this chance to meet you, Heliosia," Anne replied as she gave the Summer Maiden a warm smile, "Good luck, and farewell. May the Four Gods watch over you, Summer Maiden."

"May the Four Gods watch over you too. Farewell, Anne." The Summer Maiden watched as Elsa's sibling bowed graciously and left. As the doors to the Winter Maiden's shrine closed once more Heliosia wondered if she would ever see Elsa's younger sibling again, but she vowed that she would keep the promises regardless.

It doesn't look like it was enough to compensate for Elsa's passing, but the Summer Maiden told herself that it was at least something she could do. But she believed that one day, they would all see justice served.

Taking one last look at Vasilisa's statue which seemed to sparkle a little in the shrine's lights, Heliosia murmured a prayer to the Four Gods of Remnant before walking away to meet up with Sharp Strike, Fire Walker, Flame Weaver and the rest of Relentless Crusaders detachment, her steps slightly more purposeful than those that brought her here.

Unseen by the Summer Maiden, a single white snowflake drifted down from the domed glass ceiling and landed upon the plaque of the Winter Maiden's shrine, where it laid glistening in the reverential silence.

"You know, this place isn't that intimidating now that we're not going in to rescue someone from it." Velvet remarked as Team Beacon followed Qrow and Taiyang towards the main building of the Atlas Military Headquarters, leaving the Hyperion One behind on the landing platforms outside the massive military installation.

"Yeah, it's kind of nice to be back. I hope the staff aren't holding any grudges against us, since we raised more than a little hell the last time we're here." Coco joked as the transparent glass doors leading to the military facility's administration section opened for them.

"Well, we did make quite the mess on our last visit, even if it was justified." Yatsuhashi recalled.

"But considering the fact you saved me and prevented General Ironwood from unknowingly doing Salem's bidding, I think they won't mind." Penny told them as everyone went inside, only to be greeted by the sight of a familiar white-haired woman waiting for them at the main lobby with a pair of armed Atlesian soldiers standing at either side of her.

"Winter!" Weiss exclaimed as she ran forward and hugged her sister, "I'm so glad you're safe!"

Winter returned the hug, wrapping an arm around her younger sibling's back and not caring about the open display of affection that some might deem improper, especially considering the hectic events of the last few days. Truth be told the Schnee Specialist was just happy that Weiss was safe and sound, and as far as she was concerned, military protocol and etiquette took a back seat for this small moment of affection as she was too relieved to care about anything else.

"I'm happy to see that you're safe and sound as well. I've read the reports about the battle of Vacuo City and what you and the rest of Team Beacon did to help the civilians there," Winter replied with clear pride in her normally strict voice, "Father and I are very proud of your actions, and if mother was here she would be too."

Weiss smiled at her elder sister, visibly touched by the compliment as Qrow stepped forwards from the whole group, "Hey, Ice Queen. It's good to see you again."

"Likewise, Branwen." Winter raised an eyebrow, "You look…well enough. The report I read said that you took a nasty hit from."

"I'm doing fine after the medics back at Shade patched me up. What about Chamberlain's condition? I heard he lost a leg in the battle at Camp Independence." Qrow mentioned concernedly, which surprised the various members of Team Beacon.

The Schnee Specialist sighed, "Unfortunately, yes…the report's sadly true. However, the good news is that Colonel Chamberlain's has already woken up and is scheduled to receive a prosthetic replacement tomorrow in an operation which is going to be overseen by one of the best prosthetic doctors we have."

"Well, at least he's out of danger." Yang spoke up as she brought up her gleaming robotic arm, "By any chance, is Dr. Kimball operating on him?"

"Unfortunately, no," Winter shook her head, "Dr. Kimball is incredibly busy with others who were injured in the attacks."

"Well, the people who get operated on by him are definitely in good hands," Yang remarked with appreciation in her voice, "Think it would be okay if I talked to him sometime? One limb-loser to another?"

"You'd need permission from either his family or General Ironwood, we'll see about it," Winter explained after seeing the brief looks of confusion on Yang and a few other Team Beacon members' faces, "Come with me, the private meeting arranged by General Ironwood is scheduled to begin soon. Ozpin, the Atlas Council and the others are already in the chamber."

She turned and led them in a relatively uneventful trip through the busy corridors, up the elevators and then deep into the enormous high-security military headquarters complex, bypassing several layers of visible and unseen security checkpoints until the group reached a huge colonnaded hallway that presumably led to the more heavily-shielded meeting chambers commonly used by the leaders of the Atlas military forces to brief their army officers and Specialists.

At the far end of the hallway was a huge door with the emblem of the Kingdom which was so thick that it looked like it could easily withstand a direct missile strike. A quartet of soldiers stood guard in front of the doors, although they looked different from the normal rank-and-file troopers in the sense that they were all wearing what looked like an advanced form of heavy exoskeleton combat suit covered in white and grey armor plates. Each of the armored trooper's head was further enclosed within an armored protective helmet with a featureless reflective visor, and carried what looked like a large and heavily-modified assault rifle within their thick robotic-looking fingers.

"Halt. Identify yourselves." One of the heavily-armored soldiers spoke through his external speakers which made his voice sound distinctly more machine than human.

"Specialist Schnee of the Special Operatives Unit. I'm presently escorting Team Beacon and Huntsmen Qrow Branwen and Taiyang Xiao Long, guests of General Ironwood and Head Chancellor Maximilius to the assigned meeting." Winter replied curtly as she produced her identification card from one of the pockets adorning her military uniform.

"Acknowledged," The combat suit-clad soldier scanned her identification details for a few moments with a scanning device that extended from his gauntlet, then gave a nod before stepping back and saying, "Identification confirmed, please go right through. The other essential members have arrived and the meeting will commence shortly."

The meeting room's doors unlocked automatically and slid apart, granting the newly-arrived group of Winter, Qrow, Ross, Ciel, Sharp Strike, N1CK3L and the rest of Team Beacon access into the specialized meeting room that was used for the secret meeting. It was a reasonably-lit and cavernous circular amphitheater that could easily contain a significant number of Atlas military personnel with their essential associates and supporting staff, with dark blue metallic walls and a domed roof with complex astrological patterns adorning the large glass plates that covered its interior surface.

The doors closed once more behind them, a quick glance around the amphitheater's chambers told the newcomers that the large circular room had wide steps that led down to a large circular set of tables on various levels with several seats extending from both sides of the staircase at each row. Dominating the room was a huge holographic multi-sided table located right in the center of it, and several podiums were located at the four compass directions where participants can stand at and speak throughout the meeting.

Speaking of participants there were quite a number of them populating seats of the amphitheater, they all came from various different organizations both public and secret, as well as from different branches of the Atlas military forces too.

The first thing Team Beacon saw was that the nearly entire Atlas Council was present for the meeting; Councilman Sleet and Councilwoman Camilla were also exchanging worried words with each other as well. Slate was a professional-looking pale man with black, slicked back and graying hair, while expensive glasses covered his light-blue eyes. He also wore a classy formal suit with a grey-blue vest and a dark blue tie. Camilla has a dark complexion in addition to a stern-looking expression, while her grey hair had a distinctive curly style to it. She wore purple eyeshadow and a black shirt with a wine-red coat over the top portion. A golden-necklace could be seen hanging around her neck and similarly-colored earrings pierced both of her ears. Finally, there was General Ironwood who was currently speaking with Commander Central near one of the lower podiums. He wore a dark-blue collared shirt with a red tie, along with a white coat that had blue and red accents. There was also a white vest covering his collared shirt with two dark-blue belts wrapped around his body; one slung diagonally around his chest, and the other clenched around his waist. Most of Team Beacon took notice of the fact that the General looked incredibly tired, which only made sense given how much he had been dealing with in the past few days.

"Ah, Team Beacon, Captain Ross, Miss Soleil, Sharp Strike, N1CK3L," Ironwood turned from his conversation with Task Force Omega's commander, "It's good to see all of you."

A chorus of polite greetings were given by the seventeen members of Team Beacon back at the general who gave them a small smile. The leader of Task Force Omega exchanged a polite nod with Winter which was returned in silence, the brief softening of her normally dignified features not escaping the attention of a few members from Team Beacon, especially Ruby and Blake.

"Greetings, General Ironwood." Sharp Strike responded civilly.

"General Ironwood." N1CK3L snapped off a sharp salute which was mimicked by Penny with a wide grin on her face.

"Salutations, General Ironwood!"

"Glad to see you still in one piece, N1CK3L." Central spoke, "I heard that things got pretty chaotic in Vacuo City."

"Indeed, It was fortunate that I had my Aile Integrated Armor Pack with me," The Enhanced Tactical Android replied, "It has proven to be quite a useful asset in combat against the hordes of Grimm invading Vacuo City."

"I don't doubt that, you can thank Dr. Polendina for it later." The Commander told N1CK3L.

"I would like to do that if possible." N1CK3L turned his head a little to look at Ironwood, "However, I have not seen him yet."

"Neither have I," Penny shared a look with N1CK3L, "Where is he?"

"Dr. Polendina is currently indisposed, he still had some important projects that require his immediate attention." Ironwood informed the pair of android siblings, "I've already informed him that both of you would be here today and so you can perchance catch up with him after the meeting."

"Thank you, General." Penny and N1CK3L spoke together.

Central turned his helmet-covered head to look at Team Beacon and said, "I remember most of you from the time the joint Atlesian-Vacuoan strike force launched an attack on the White Fang Headquarters. You all did real admirable work during that particular battle with Taurus' White Fang."

"Thank you, Commander." Jaune answered graciously, "We fought as hard and as effectively as we could."

"It was actually more of a team effort." Ruby said, "And Sharp Strike here also helped out a lot as well." The armored knight gave an appreciative nod.

"I don't doubt it, but I'm pretty impressed that you kids managed to pull off so many crazy missions successfully, so it's no surprise you kids managed to survive the attack on Vacuo." Central commented.

"I'd say we survived because of our past experiences with Salem's agents and sheer luck, given two Elder Grimm. It's honestly a miracle we all managed to come out of it alive and mostly unscathed." Jaune sighed a little as he remembered there were still casualties among the capital's civilian population.

"No kidding, it was messy and quite intense, but we were the lucky ones, all things considered." Velvet agreed, wincing at the memories of chaos and death.

"But we still managed to fight off Salem's agents and the Red Fang." Sun said, trying to lighten the mood.

"Yeah! And we managed to blow up the Elder Deathworm with a whole bunch of explosives—" Nora added but was nudged by Ren.

"We've heard of your efforts in eliminating the Elder Grimm," General Ironwood's eyes widened in surprise for a moment, before his shoulders move a tiny bit with a chuckle, "Nevertheless, by eliminating that Elder Deathworm, you managed to limit the damage to Vacuo City and also undoubtedly saved many lives. Then you saved even more by killing the Sphinx before it reached Shade Academy."

"Haha…yeah, Weiss and I had one heck of a time hanging onto that Sphinx." Ruby gave an awkward smile, rubbing her head as she shared a look with Weiss, Jaune, Pyrrha and Sharp Strike.

"What?" Winter's eyes widened as she looked at Weiss and Ruby, utterly incredulous, "You and Ruby actually clung onto the Sphinx? What in Oum's name were you thinking? You could've been grievously hurt!"

"Winter." Weiss spoke up with a surprisingly firm voice, making her sister stop, "I'm sorry, but we did what we had to do as Hunters. If we didn't stop that thing, who knows how many more people could have died? The truth is there will always be danger in our lives, I thought you of all people would know that."

"Kid's gotcha there," Qrow muttered, earning a cold look from the Specialist.

"I know it was foolhardy and risky, but it was worth it. I know it seems insane, but when you're part of a team, the danger never seems as bad as it would when you're alone." Weiss finished.

"Sher's right." Central spoke as he looked at Winter, "I know you care deeply for her, but I think that Weiss has proven she can take care of herself, especially with so many friends fighting alongside her."

Winter glanced at him for a moment before she gradually sighed and her shoulders slumped a little, she walked forward and gently hugged Weiss again who smiled and returned the gesture, "I suppose I understand. Even after everything you've been through and accomplished it's hard to imagine you being such an impressive Huntress. But tell me, weren't there certain Huntsmen around who are supposed to do such dangerous tasks?"

Knowing that was directed at him, Qrow glared and snapped "I had a hole in my torso at the time! Besides, how about you try stopping these kids when they got their minds set on something?"

Winter shook her head, although before she could say anything else N1CK3L stepped forward and gestured at Penny beside him, "Commander Central, this is my sister android Penny Polendina. I believe I promised to introduce you to her."

"Salutations, Commander Central!" Penny smiled at him as she saluted, "I'm very pleased to meet you!"

"Feeling's mutual, Penny." Central slowly shook hands with the female android, "I remember seeing you around headquarters with Dr. Polendina on a few occasions. Me and my team even watched you train a few times, and I gotta say your abilities are pretty impressive."

"Thank you for the compliment, Commander!" The young female android beamed at him, "I'm sure N1CK3L will get along very well with you!"

"He already did, actually," Central said, "I appreciate his efforts in trying to work together with my other team members within Task Force Omega."

"I'm delighted to hear that as well!" Penny complimented, "Thanks again for having N1CK3L on your team, and I hope you'll look after him!"

"Look after me?" N1CK3L asked, while Central tried not to laugh.

"You're welcome, Penny, and don't worry, we'll do our best." Central replied.

A polite cough interrupted their conversation and General Ironwood said, "I believe it's time to take your seats, the meeting will be beginning shortly. Commander Central, return to your team. Winter, please escort Team Beacon to their seats. I still have a few more things to attend to before the meeting. I'll see you all later."

He walked away after accepting the proper salutes from the group. Winter gestured for Team Beacon to follow her, while the commander of Task Force Omega exchanged a few quiet words with N1CK3L before he walked back up the aisle to rejoin his team, the masculine android turning to follow Penny for the time being.

As Jaune and Pyrrha took their seats along with the rest of Team Beacon not far away from the southern podium, the crystal guardians noticed that there were several other Atlesian Specialists present as well as the rest of Task Force Omega, who were all clad in their individually-customized suits of black armor with navy-blue highlights. N1CK3L also had helpfully provided the names and different roles each Omega Trooper performs within the task force itself from where they have been seated; Raider the incredibly skilled pilot of the Retribution, Jammer the professional electronic warfare and intelligence specialist, Javelin the wisecracking sniper and sharpshooter, Shocker the bold melee and shock baton specialist, the Polar Bear Faunus Invictus who was the heavy weapons and explosives specialist, and Fieros the heavy warfare specialist judging from the customized plasma repeater which was holstered at the back of his advanced armor suit. While the enhanced tactical android himself was part of Task Force Omega, N1CK3L had not received any orders to return back to Central's team and so he had remained with Team Beacon, quietly introducing the other essential military personnel present so that they know who else had come to this special secret meeting today.

After Winter told them about the usual rules of staying quiet during the meeting and waiting for their names to be acknowledged should they have any questions, Winter proceeded over to where her superior was standing. After taking his seat Central reached up to his armored helmet, then slipped his fingers beneath the helmet's chin guard and ran them all the way to the back as though disengaging some unseen lock that kept his helmet securely attached to the rest of his advanced armor suit. The various members of Team Beacon watched quietly out of the corner of their eyes, their inward thoughts wondering what the commander of the elite task force possibly looked like without the helmet since they hadn't seen Commander Central's face before.

Once he had a firm grip on the lower sides of his helmet, there was a soft hiss of escaping air as he carefully rocked it forward and pulled it away as like a performer unmasking himself. The face he revealed to everyone within the meeting room was lean and strong-featured, with black brows above eyes the colors of glaciers, a narrow nose, high cheeks, and a broad mouth set above a thick square chin. His black hair, closely cropped according to military regulation, had thin streaks of platinum-grey running through them and certainly made Central look unexpectedly attractive for an Atlesian Specialist, as some had been expecting him to be older and showing more scars from combat. Despite his looks, the Central's patrician features with a little ruggedness in them and penetrating gaze more than conveyed to others at the battle-hardened soldier he was.

"Oooh." Velvet whispered, "So that's what Central looks like underneath all that armor."

"I wouldn't be surprised if his face is displayed on such posters," Coco murmured, "No offense, Sharp Strike. I'm pretty sure your face is just as handsome behind that helmet."

"None taken." Sharp Strike answered.

"Yang, you're staring," Blake nudged her partner discreetly, "Besides, he's way older than you."

"Who? Me? Oh, perish the thought," Yang chuckled as she waved her robotic arm, "But I have to say; Central is pretty hot. Coco's right, they should put him on a poster, more women would sign up."

"People said the same thing about me back at Haven." Sun mentioned, trying to sound casual, "Ladies would come from all over to see Team SSSN."

Blake rolled her eyes as Neptune leaned over to Weiss and whispered "Hey Weiss, did you notice how your sister looks at him?"

"Yeah, I noticed that Winter's expression changed a little when she greeted him." Ruby mentioned softly, "They know each other?"

Weiss shrugged her shoulders, "Winter sometimes shared details of, so I heard one or two things about her team. I don't know what happened between them, but I think she mentioned that she and Central were apparently assigned to the same team, and they also enlisted in the Special Operatives Unit together."

"So maybe their history runs a bit deeper than professional?" Blake speculated with a tilt of her head.

"Please, Blake." Weiss rolled her eyes a little, "As if Winter had time for any sort of relationship with her complete devotion to her training and her current occupation. Knowing my sister, she most likely has a strictly professional relationship with Central. Unless you somehow saw something else I didn't?"

"It may be nothing, but Ruby's right, I saw Winter's expression change when she looked at Central earlier." The feline ninja answered, "But I think she's probably just glad her ex-teammate survived considering the terrible losses the Atlas military suffered."

"That's obviously it." The heiress said with a nod.

Jaune and Pyrrha couldn't help but notice another team of Huntsmen and Huntresses dressed in smart uniforms sitting behind Task Force Omega. While the blond knight and Spartan hadn't seen any of those military personnel before, the group of uniformed Specialists gave off a distinct impression that they weren't individuals to be underestimated.

"If you don't mind me asking…" Jaune whispered over to Ross softly, "What is the name of the other group of Specialists sitting in front of Task Force Omega?"

"They're the Ace Operatives, also known as Ace-Ops." The pilot answered, "I heard General Ironwood chose each of them personally, and they all answer to him and the Council."

"So they're another elite team like Task Force Omega?" Pyrrha queried and Ross nodded again.

"Yeah, they're the best of the best among the Atlesian Specialists. I've heard stories about operations conducted by Ace-Ops before, and all I can say is that I pity any idiot who fought them."

In a quiet voice the skilled pilot quickly introduced the members of Ace-Ops; there was Vine Zeki, a monkish-looking tall man with short-shaved grey hair, deathly pale skin and pale blue eyes. Elm Ederne was a tall and muscular young woman with her medium brown hair done up in a short ponytail, brown skin and brown eyes. The young woman known as Harriet Bree was dark-skinned platinum blonde and brown hair which was shaved on the sides and dark pink eyes. The young man with greenish-black hair and blue eyes who was clearly a Dog Faunus due to his visible dark and light grey tail (a factor that surprised them as they didn't think the Atlesians would allow a Faunus onto an elite team) was known as Marrow Amin. Their leader, who was seated closest to Central, was also a rather handsome-looking man with short brown hair and teal-green eyes, was Clover Ebi. Each of the Ace Operatives wore a personally customized Specialist uniform that was obviously tailored to their personal preference, while their personal weapons were all holstered and made safe presumably according to their given orders. Jaune and Pyrrha particularly noticed that Clover leaned back a little to hear what Central was speaking to him about, before turning his head and giving the Task Force Commander a smile and a thumbs up with one of his hands which were clad in brown-fingerless gloves.

"I wonder what they're talking about?" Jaune murmured.

"Knowing those Specialists, probably their next assignment or betting on what we'll hear in the meeting." Ciel commented.

"Maybe they're talking about us?" Pyrrha added.

"Hmm…maybe." Jaune's face looked thoughtful, "Since today is probably the first time they saw all of Team Beacon in one place, not to mention the Guardians of Remnant and the Remnant Knights."

"This is probably the largest gathering I've ever seen for a secret meeting," Ruby whispered to Weiss, who nodded in agreement.

Jaune felt Pyrrha gently squeeze his hand in assurance. He glanced down at the Aura Crystal's case resting on his partner's lap which both of them had brought along with them to the meeting after receiving a message from Sharp Strike that his superiors had requested for them to do so. Although he wasn't sure why the Knights would want the crystal to be brought there, Jaune was pretty sure that whatever information the Guardians of Remnant and the Knights would be sharing at the gathering would probably involve the sacred crystal one way or another.

While Ozpin and Ironwood were physically present, holograms of the other Guardians of Remnant included Glynda who was supervising various imperative matters back at Beacon, Councilman Henry of the Vale Council, Headmaster Argo of Haven, Headmistress Luna all sat or stood around at various locations scattered around the entire meeting room. A variety of expressions could be seen on their faces, ranging from cautiously watchful to the deeply exhausted, which was reasonably understandable since they all presumably have been handling matters back at their individual Kingdoms and dealing with the chaotic aftermath that had stemmed from the Grimm invasions of the Kingdom of Atlas and Vacuo City.

A significant number of other Atlesian military personnel and several Specialists other than Task Force Omega and Ace-Ops were present as well; and thanks to N1CK3L's helpful introductions the members of Team Beacon were aware that Captain Gregory White and Admiral Aqua Nemo had also attended the meeting, while Specialists Blair and Yin were seated among the front seats that were occupied by the high-ranking military officers as they were presently carrying the armored briefcases that contained the Relic maps under the strict orders of Ironwood.

Ozpin spotted the newly-arrived Team Beacon and a small smile creased his aged features. The headmaster of Beacon Academy politely excused himself from his conversation with Argo and Glynda's holograms and then made his way towards Team Beacon in order to greet them with Taiyang following him. The latter Huntsman grinned as he saw Qrow as well as both Ruby and Yang, hugging them both for a few moments before taking his seat beside the avian scythe-user.

"Greetings, Team Beacon." The silver-haired headmaster asked as he looked at the seated members of the group, allowing his gaze to slowly roam over them all for a few moments, "I trust you're all properly rested and doing well?"

"As far as I can tell, we're doing pretty okay, sir." Coco answered dutifully.

"We were lucky, but as long as we're all okay you can always count on us." Ruby added boldly.

"We'll keep that in mind." Glynda's hologram said as it appeared before them, "My apologies, I couldn't be here in person since there has been quite a lot of crucial work to settle and the Vale Council wanted me to send out senior teams out to keep the peace around Vale. Several other academy staff members, including Peter and Bartholomew, have been pulling double shifts to make sure the Grimm creatures don't encroach on the weakened gaps within the Kingdom's defenses."

"Sorry to hear that," Sun offered, "It's a shame we couldn't be there to help, or else things would probably be better for you."

"Professor Goodwitch said senior Teams, Sun. We're still second years." Neptune reminded the Monkey Faunus.

"True, but we have about as much experience as a senior team when it comes to fighting Grimm." Sage noted.

"That's not entirely untrue, but I have to say it's good to see that you're all alive and well." Glynda told them, "I was very worried when I heard about Vacuo City."

"Thank you, Miss Goodwitch." Several of Team Beacon's members offered their heartfelt gratitude which made the normally stern-looking teacher smile. Sharp Strike and N1CK3L inclined their heads in respect to the teacher, although the knight's attention gradually turned to focus on something else.

Ruby, Coco, Jaune and Pyrrha; from where they were seated slowly noticed that Sharp Strike's helmet-covered head was turned slightly, and he was apparently gazing off at Heliosia, who had her arms crossed and was speaking to Luna's hologram that was hovering in front of her.

Before the two crystal guardians could do anything the gatling gun-wielding fashionista, who was seated the closest to the knight, nudged him and snapped Sharp Strike out of his trance, "Oh? My sincere apologies. It's good to see you again, Professor Goodwitch."

"You as well, Sharp Strike." The female professor inclined her head a little, "I trust that you've been adapting to Team Beacon well?"

"It may take some time for me to fully adapt, but I'm happy to say that I'm sure I've found a good place among Team Beacon and I'm thankful they've accepted me." Sharp Strike replied.

"I see." Glynda nodded as she looked at Team Beacon again, "Keep up the good work."

Ruby tilted her head at Sharp Strike and asked "You okay? You seemed kind of distracted."

Sharp Strike took a breath and carefully said, "I just spotted the Maidens. I'm still concerned about how they may react to whatever decision the Guardians of Remnant come to in this particular meeting." The young knight hoped that his excuse for momentary lapse of distraction would suffice, and wouldn't be looked too closely into by the members of Team Beacon.

"Uh-huh, sure." Coco lowered her glasses a little to look at the Knight beside her, her face showing that she clearly didn't buy it. Ruby looked confused for a moment, while Jaune and Pyrrha shared a questioning look with each other as they wondered what had made Sharp Strike briefly uncomfortable.

Thankfully, the knight errant was saved from further questions as a familiar feminine voice cut in. "Distracted again, Sharp Strike? Looks like your old habits still linger." Soul Seer spoke as she slowly approached the area where Team Beacon was seated with Argentius next to her, her golden staff with a flower-shaped head tapping the floor with every step she took, "He sometimes does that. His mind tends to wander at times, especially during when he started out as Argentius's protégé, it was quite a difficult task when I first taught him meditation skills."

Glynda's hologram raised an eyebrow, "He's easily distracted? Won't that cause some problems when he's in a battle?"

"On the contrary, no." Soul Seer answered with a soft chuckle, "He's always shown remarkable focus in combat, and has greatly improved in terms of his meditations. I'm sure he would be completely focused should the situation require it of him, since Argentius trained him well."

"That goes without question, Soul Seer." Argentius's helmeted head nodded, "Sharp Strike is considered to be my brightest protégé among those I've trained, and I'm proud of his abilities and achievements as a Remnant Knight."

"I see, that's reassuring to hear." Yang remarked.

"Chief Prognosticator. Master Argentius." Sharp Strike stood up from his seat and greeted, "Good to see that you again, and judging from the looks of things you're both doing well. "

"As well as can be expected, given the circumstances," Argentius said before turning his helmet to look at Ruby, and the Huntress somehow sensed that he's smiling a little behind his face-plate, "Hello, Ruby. I heard from my other associates about the heroics in Vacuo City. Do you feel all right?"

"I'm doing okay, Argentius," Ruby said, remembering that she didn't need to address the senior Knight as 'master' in front of others, "I had a little trip to the mindscape when I was resting in Shade's infirmary, which I have you to thank for in a way."

"How so?" Sharp Strike's master inquired politely while sharing a brief glance with Soul Seer's face which was hidden behind a beautifully sculptured mask, "I take it you remember the dangers I warned you about of entering a mindscape without the help of a prognosticator?"

"I do, but let's just say my first trip to the mindscape with you gave me something that protected me during my latest outing," Ruby explained quickly, "There's no need to worry, I remembered what you have told me and I have also been careful. Perhaps I can tell you about it another time?"

"That's acceptable to me," Argentius slowly fixed his helmet's grey lenses with Ruby's silver eyes as his voice turned to that of a strict teacher, "Nevertheless, I would remind you to be careful of dark things that lurk unseen within the mindscape, or those who seemingly wear the disguise of those you know and love in there. Make sure that you don't unknowingly take any of their evil back with you into the mortal world."

"Heed his words, Ruby." Soul Seer added in a cautious voice, "Beware of the mindscape's dangers, for a single misstep there would have dangerous and catastrophic consequences."

"Thank you for your advice and warnings; Argentius and Soul Seer." The silver-eyed Huntress gave them a grateful look, "I'll always remember them."

"Ah, before I forget…there's one last thing, Sharp Strike." The knight errant's master turned to look at him again, "There will be another meeting with the Knight Order that requires your attendance later. The meeting's details will be sent to you through your scroll and your presence is specifically required. Is that understood?"

"Completely." Sharp Strike answered.

Weiss looked around the meeting room again and realized it was odd that several high-ranking members of the council were present via holograms. "Strange…where's Head Chancellor Maximilius and Headmistress Mapel? Shouldn't they be here in person for such an important meeting?"

"Headmistress Mapel is currently busy coordinating the third and fourth-year teams from the academies of Atlas and Mantle, assigning them to various cities and towns to provide much-needed support to certain elements of the Atlas military forces which had been engaging the remaining pockets of Grimm scattered across the continent. She's also delegated several first and second-year teams to help with the ongoing relief efforts and assisting in search-and-rescue operations with other emergency relief services," Glynda informed them, "And from what I know, Head Chancellor Maximilius is also preoccupied with addressing the public's concerns and questions, while also overseeing a major relief effort in Mantle City. Her company, Omniscient Industries, have also been sending out emergency food and medicine supplies alongside the Schnee Dust Company to help the wounded victims of the Grimm attacks on the Kingdom. I wouldn't want to add further burdens to what she already has to bear as Head of the Council, and the same goes for Mapel. They will eventually have to leave early, so they'll both be informed of what they missed later. Speaking of which…I believe that some of you have some important information to share with the rest of us in the upcoming meeting."

"Ah yes. Mr. Lie, Miss Valkyrie and Miss Belladonna; Qrow has brought to our attention that all of you have vital things to tell us. While Ironwood was skeptical at first when we first spoke with him, Glynda and I have decided to take whatever information you can give us seriously and so we have convinced him to at least allow the three of you a chance to share them with us." Ozpin looked at the green ninja, the cheerful hammer-wielder, and the ex-White Fang operative separately as he spoke, "Each of you will be given a fair chance to speak your piece, you have my word."

"Now, I trust you all to be well behaved during this meeting. If you wish to speak or ask a question, raise your hand and we will get to you. Otherwise, no talking; is that understood?" Glynda voiced in a stern tone.

"We got it, Miss Goodwitch," Ruby replied with a polite nod.

"We'll be quiet." Jaune promised.

"Won't hear a peep from us, I hope." Sun swore, eyeing his team who nodded back at him.

"Same here, our lips are sealed." Coco remarked.

"Good." Glynda said with a nod, "The meeting will begin soon. Nora, Ren, Blake, each of you will stand up and speak when we call on you."

"We understand." Blake said.

"You got it ma'am!" Nora declared, while Ren nodded silently.

In time, General Ironwood stood up from the semi-circular podium where the rest of the Atlas Council would sit for the duration of the meeting and banged a gravel which made everyone go silent, "Members of the Atlas Council, Atlas military forces, Guardians of Remnant, Knight Order and Team Beacon, good morning. I see that everyone who's required to be present is already here. Those who have not taken their seats, please do so now. I officially call this meeting to order."

The general tapped a few buttons on the podium's control panel which caused the amphitheater's lights to dim while also activating security systems that would prevent any outsiders from listening in. The doors locked themselves automatically while additional unseen systems prevented the usage of scrolls unless authorized by the members of the Atlas Council.

"Thank you all for coming in this chaotic time," Ironwood continued as he looked around the amphitheater, "Before I begin with today's agenda I would like to remind everyone here that what follows will be a closed meeting involving the Atlas Council, selected representatives from the other Kingdoms, and members from both the Guardians of Remnant and the Knight Order. Those here today should also know that there will be no formal transcript of this meeting. No one will be speaking on record, and no one other than those authorized to be here will ever know that this meeting had taken place. Due to the sensitive nature of the various pieces of information being shared here today by distinguished individuals who also value their confidentiality, anything and everything that will be revealed today will not leave this room. Understood?"

Everyone nodded, as they have all sworn oaths of secrecy at one time or another to the Guardians of Remnant in order to be furnished with information that wasn't for the common people of Remnant to know, especially since they had to deal with certain things being revealed to the public recently.

Ironwood continued, "Now that we're all on the same page, I would like everyone to join me in a moment for silence; for the loss of Elsa and Kaifin, the innocent men, women and children of both Kingdoms whose lives were tragically lost in two of the largest Grimm incursions in recent history; for the military personnel, firefighters and police officers who had dedicated their and lost their lives in saving as many civilians as possible during those incursions; for the thousands of innocent families who have lost family members and friends; for the Remnant Knights who had perished fighting valiantly against enemy agents; for all those who are working diligently and tirelessly in the search and rescue efforts; and for every single member of the Councils and Kingdom authorities who couldn't be with us today due to various secrecy issues and their enduring efforts in formulating an effective response for those affected. May they never be forgotten, and may their souls be eternally protected by the Four Gods."

Everyone lowered their heads, and many of them closed their eyes as they echoed Ironwood's words, "May they never be forgotten, and may their souls be eternally protected by the Four Gods." They all knew of the scale of the attacks and the grievous losses they suffered. In that quiet moment they mourned all those they had lost, and resolved to do better by fighting all the more harder and smarter in the future.

The moment of silence quickly passed, with everyone soon lifting their heads and giving General Ironwood their full attention. "Thank you." He said gratefully, "Let's get started. I'm sure none of you here need a recap on the events of the last few days. Everyone in this room knows the painful hits we have taken and the…confidential things that had been revealed to the public in the wake of the Vacuo City attack. While the potentially unpredictable situation in both Atlas and Vacuo had been successful contained for the moment, one thing in particular has been made abundantly clear: While the Maidens' existence was confirmed during the Fall of Beacon Academy, their identities managed to remain a secret."

The Atlesian general slowly and deliberately directed his firm gaze in the direction of the Summer Maiden, "But now the identity of one has been publicly revealed, due to her actions as witnessed by thousands of civilians at Shade."

More than a few pairs of eyes either glanced at or outright glared at Heliosia. From where he was sitting with the rest of Team Beacon, Sharp Strike noticed that the brown-haired Maiden briefly looked down and closed her maroon-red eyes for a moment before gradually facing those who looked at her and showing no other form of expression on her face other than that of firm determination. She clearly didn't regret her actions, although from what the knight errant had heard from the Knight Vanguards and his superiors that it was already near-impossible to keep Heliosia's identity as the Summer Maiden hidden thanks to Tyrian. In all honesty what the senior Maiden had done was considered one of the better resolutions to what could have been another crisis, even though the Guardians of Remnant still have their wary reservations.

"What's done is done, General," Ozpin said as his bespectacled face looked at the uniformed guardian, "We can't change what's happened, but at least we managed to salvage some good thanks to Heliosia's quick-thinking. It may not be the outcome we'd have liked, but at least it's something we can work with for now."

"I understand, Headmaster Ozpin, and while I appreciate Miss Aiena's efforts in helping quell the impending riots, but we must note that the reveal of her true identity to the public could have dangerous consequences in the weeks and months to come."

"Your concerns are duly noted," Seraph's deep voice rumbled from the podium on which he and the armored figures of Argentius, Soul Seer and Tranquility stood, "I'm sure the Summer Maiden knows about the consequences stemming from her actions and will adjust her actions accordingly in future." The grand knight master turned to look at Heliosia who gave a small nod of gratitude at the heavily-armored senior knight.

Ironwood sighed and resumed speaking, "Moving on, the combined property damage inflicted on Vacuo City, as well as on the various towns and cities of the Kingdom of Atlas, amount to an estimated over four billion Lien in total. As for the time needed to completely rebuild what's been severely damaged or destroyed in both Kingdoms, even the most optimistic estimates from various consulted experts had informed us that it will take nearly two to five years to repair it all. The government of Atlas is currently in talks with regards to the planning stages for a wide-scale rebuilding effort, but we're going to need contracts from numerous construction companies across Remnant as well as funding and aid from the other governments across all four Kingdoms."

"It will take time, but thanks to my actions Vale's authorities have already begun working on deals with a number of trustworthy construction and shipping delivery companies. I'm fairly confident they will be put into place within the week." Councilman Henry's hologram mentioned.

"I'll do what I can with the Mistral Council." Added Councilman Argo's hologram, "The Kingdom of Mistral will be sending as many emergency supplies and as much aid we can afford, but you must also understand that we also have to look out for the welfare of our people as well."

"Good, hopefully this can quell the rumors about Mistral that seemed to have sparked up back in Vale in the last few days." Glynda's hologram spoke up.

"What rumors?" Soul Seer inquired.

"Well, due to Garrett Odinson being taken into custody by Atlas military forces and the fact that no major catastrophe has befallen Mistral like the rest of the Kingdoms, as well as the fact that Cinder Fall had a hidden base in Haven City that went unnoticed until the battle of Haven, some…displeased individuals have begun to accuse the Mistral Council of being in league with the enemy." Ozpin said while noticing the surprised looks on the faces of Team Beacon's members, especially with Pyrrha and Scarlet.

"The Knight Order's agents have heard some rumblings in the Mistralian underworld as well, and such unfortunate rumors are to be expected in times of fear similar to what's facing us now. Tragedy begets paranoia, just as our enemy intended," Seraph remarked in his deep voice, "Hopefully the ongoing relief efforts, with clear support from the other Kingdoms' Councils, will allay such fears in due time."

"Yes, Councilman Sleet brought this up with me the other day and I've given it some serious consideration. I agree that we need to do what we can to squash these unverified rumors, and hopefully these relief efforts will be the first step," Ironwood said carefully, "However, I regret to inform you all that Atlas's involvement in the rebuilding efforts would be…limited at best after the necessary relief supplies have been sent to the other Kingdoms."

"Why is that, General?" Argentius asked.

The Atlesian general glanced at the figures of Councilman Sleet and Councilwoman Camilla for a moment before returning his attention to the audience around him and said, "It's no secret I've recalled much of Atlas's military strength back to the Kingdom in the wake of recent events. To further ensure the safety of Atlas's civilians and the Kingdom itself, the entire Atlas Council including the Head Chancellor has agreed to close the borders by next week and put a trade embargo on Dust supplies in place for the foreseeable future. In other words, no one goes in or out of Atlas without the Council's express permission."

"You can't be serious!" Qrow also blurted out from his seat in shock, and quite a number of faces turned to look at him, "Are you crazy, Jim?"

"That will only hurt the people of Atlas and Mantle!" Weiss objected suddenly.

"And it won't go over very well with the people of Vale, Vacuo and Mistral." Coco said, crossing her arms.

"A lot of people are gonna hate this." Sun added with a frustrated look on his face.

Glynda's hologram turned to look at them with a stern look, and those who spoke quickly quietened before she turned back to Ironwood and said, "Despite their outburst, I find myself agreeing with them. The actions the Atlas Council plan on taking will undoubtedly result in severe consequences."

"With all due respect, General," Tranquility spoke from the Knights' podium, "I must remind you that closing Atlas's borders and putting a trade embargo in place would only serve to hurt your relations with the other Kingdoms, not to mention making the Council seem considerably untrustworthy in the eyes of the people."

Ironwood noticed Sleet and Camilla glaring at Qrow and those who clearly disapproved of the closed borders and embargo, so replied, "I know it may seem heartless and extreme, but consider what's happened to the Kingdom. We needed to ensure that it can never happen again, and so I wanted my entire military here to protect the citizens of Atlas. The trade embargo, as Head Chancellor Maximilius discussed with me and the other council members, would be to ensure that every soldier, armored vehicle, naval vessel and airship within my military would be sufficiently armed, properly fueled and ready to respond to any open invasion or infiltration attempt by the enemy. With so many military bases severely damaged and most of the troops' strength there near-depleted, I don't really see that I have a choice."

"But that's not protecting the people of Atlas!" Yang voiced again as she raised her robotic hand upwards, "You're locking them up within their own towns and cities, and it would make everyone hate you sooner rather than later!"

Ironwood sighed softly and countered, "We're not locking them up. They can go where they please, just not outside of our territory, and after the attacks many don't feel safe anywhere. If it's to ensure the continued safety of the Kingdom, then it's a price I'm willing to pay." Councilman Sleet and Councilwoman Camilla both remained quiet but nonetheless gave nods of agreement in response, even though from their expressions they did have some reservations about their current course of action. The general closed his eyes for a brief moment to compose himself, knowing that it would only be a matter of time before his actions would be met with opposition, but deep down he felt that being paranoid wasn't a bad thing as long as it doesn't overrule sense. One could never be too careful, after all.

Especially when it comes to dealing with Salem.

Ironwood closed his eyes for a brief moment before moving on to the next topic, speaking gravely, "As for the body count…it's far worse than what had happened with the Fall of Beacon. Despite the evacuation and mobilization of the Kingdom's military forces, Headmistress Luna and the Vacuo Council informed us that the death toll reported is currently at two thousand six hundred and forty-two which includes civilians, police officers, Vacuo Rangers and Desert Guard members. While thus far we Atlesians have managed to count over seven thousand deaths, plus several hundreds more in varying stages of critical condition. Please keep in mind these numbers are only a preliminary estimate at best, and that sum I had just mentioned is still rising as more deaths are still being reported. "

There was a horrible silence as those numbers sunk in.

So many lives. Gone forever.

"I know things are horrible, but there's not much we can do about it presently other than healing the wounds, try to restore what's been damaged, and preparing ourselves as much as possible against our enemy's next attack," Ironwood said as he looked around at those gathered before him, "However, Atlas has received significant assistance both the Mistral and Vale Councils in the form of veteran Huntsmen teams as well as food and medical supplies, and hence they have our gratitude during these turbulent times. As for the wounded and the dead, the authorities within Atlas itself have been trying their best to save those who can be saved, while for the latter they are also looking into the matter of holding the proper ceremonies to mourn all those lost in this calamity. Further search and rescue operations are still ongoing in the other Atlesian cities, and the Atlas Council has been working closely with politician Robyn Hill and her Happy Huntresses to expedite as much assistance and emergency supplies to Mantle City as soon as possible…"

The meeting went on about the details of the Grimm invasion of Atlas and Vacuo and the various gathered individuals from the Kingdoms, Guardians of Remnant and the Knight Order have all agreed to help the affected Kingdoms get back on their feet at least before proceeding onto those subsequent measures they have approved to prevent anything like that from happening again.

Headmistress Luna brought up an update on her end with regards to the investigation on Cedric who was discovered by Qrow as the spy that was working for the enemy to provide information on the Summer Maiden's whereabouts within Shade Academy, in addition to its overall layout and defenses. When Ironwood and the others requested more information, the dark-skinned headmistress made sure to clarify her deceased assistant's unique situation and his possible motivations for betraying them. She informed the other Guardians of Remnant that Cedric's sister and the rest of his family weren't aware of his actions and were evacuated and put under protection by the Vacuo Rangers at a safehouse to prevent any enemy agents from killing them. The other Guardians of Remnant, Ozpin, Glynda and Seraph in particular, reiterated the need to be careful about the sharing of information even within the Kingdoms' authorities while Councilman Henry suggested that they run detailed background checks on those serving within the Kingdoms' Councils and various government branches which was agreed upon shortly by the other Guardians of Remnant.

As there were a lot of topics and details to go over, the meeting eventually continued on long enough that some of the members of Team Beacon were on the verge of zoning out despite them trying their best to keep track of everything that was being discussed. Penny and N1CK3L, due to them both being advanced androids, were easily aware of almost every mentioned detail thanks to their auditory sensors; while Sharp Strike remained quiet and motionless as he quietly observed the proceedings, no doubt absorbing whatever useful information he could parse out from the discussions.

A while later, General Ironwood changed the subject to a more interesting one by saying, "Now that we have the incidentals out of the way, it's time for me to apprise you of the enemy group that launched the Kingdom-wide assault on Atlas. While the search-and-rescue crews are still sorting things out at the most severely-damaged areas that had become of many military bases and towns, agents from the intelligence branch of the Atlas military have managed to recover footage from a number of damaged security cameras and surviving military personnel. I have been informed by Admiral Nemo, Colonel Chamberlain, and Snow Blade that the presence of several Grimm Commanders were positively identified at various battles."

He produced a tiny remote and pressed a button, which caused the holographic emblem of Atlas that was floating above the multi-sided holographic table positioned in the middle of the amphitheater to vanish and be replaced by several high-resolution images of Salem's notorious Grimm Commanders during the attack on Atlas; Steppenwolffe riding an Alpha Beowolf while attacking North Point, Ziz directing the Griffons and Nevermore to assault Aszod City, the horrifying Grimm chimera form of Norvik seen among hordes of Grimm swarming into Camp Independence through a breach in the military base's walls, and a certain young female with white skin, black hair and red eyes riding atop of a Grimm Sea Feilong throughout the attack on Margarite Harbor.

From where he was seated Sharp Strike could feel a spike of adrenaline burn through him at the sight of the Grimm Commanders, since he had personally faced Steppenwolffe during the conflict involving the Adam's White Fang and barely escaped with his life. From the body language the silver-blue armored knight had seen on the other Remnant Knights present he could also tell that they were also incensed by those same images of the enemy, although they have just barely kept their battle fervor in check to maintain a reserved and measured appearance in front of their allies. However, he could tell from the tight grip Snow Blade and his accompanying Winter Templars had on their respective weapons that those Knights would have a reckoning with those that had killed Elsa and Kaifin.

"And thanks to information provided by Headmistress Luna and several members of Team Beacon, we have confirmed the presence of another Grimm Commander in the Battle of Vacuo City, named Anansi who apparently was in control of the Tarantula Widows and also brought in a pair of Elder Grimm to cause further widespread damage and havoc," Ironwood mentioned as he brought up additional images, before pressing a few other buttons to make the holograms of the Grimm Commanders arrange themselves into a neat row above the huge table's display, "And thanks to the efforts of Team Beacon and the Maidens, both of the Elder Grimm encountered have been destroyed."

A ripple of quiet murmurs came as many of the Atlesian military officers, Specialists and Remnant Knights present turned their heads to look in the direction of the team with respect and admiration on their faces. Bringing down a single Elder Grimm would have been a considerably difficult task to achieve even for veteran warriors, and the group of young Huntsmen and Huntresses had managed to kill two of them.

"After consulting with agents from the Atlas Intelligence Service and our associates from the Order, we have confirmed the majority of the Grimm Commanders' identities that had taken part in the attacks on Atlas." Ironwood continued speaking, the holographic images of the Grimm hybrids enlarging themselves through small gestures from his other gloved hand, "Steppenwolffe, Ziz, Norvik and Sheer Kaa. However, Admiral Nemo brought to my attention that she countered a new female Grimm Commander, who looks to be aquatic-capable and also could control the Sea Feilongs."

"Have we identified who she is?" Glynda's hologram.

Ironwood's head turned to Admiral Nemo who spoke, "After cross-referencing the footage with records with missing individuals lost at sea for the past twenty years or so, the intelligence branch have come to an seventy-six percent probability that the newest Grimm Commander is Mavis Ricci, a young girl that was reported missing when pirates attacked her family's yacht outside of the Atlas' waters. By the time a naval patrol received their distress call and arrived, the yacht was destroyed and no survivors were recovered. While the bodies of her parents were recovered, her body was never found, and now it appears that she isn't dead."

"And now this poor girl has been twisted into another of Salem's Grimm Commanders." Ozpin quietly remarked.

Seraph added in a deep voice, "Which means one more adversary for us."

"While that is so, Grand Knight Master, but I fear there could be more than those I have already mentioned." Ironwood said in a serious tone.

"What? There's even more Grimm Commanders?" Councilman Henry's hologram frowned, "Gods help us if that's the case."

"Unconfirmed, due to the lack of information," The cyborg general mentioned as he brought up two new images, "But what caught my attention were these two strange cases; which were the attacks on Borealis Base and Fort Valor. Both military bases were completely wiped out to the last man, and the only survivors from the former base were in the nearby town of Borea at that time. As strange as it sounds, being there to protect the town's civilians from the Grimm attack somehow spared them from…whatever happened to the base while they were away. Fortunately, the town had help fending off the Grimm from elements from the reformed White Fang. I spoke to Sienna Khan herself, and as hard as some of us find it to believe, she personally led one of these rescue missions. Reports have also come from Nashville that White Fang forces led by Commander Razor himself protected the citizens."

Several of the military personnel from Atlas were surprised or skeptical of this, while Blake found herself smiling proudly, glancing over to Yang who patted her on the shoulder as she smiled warmly at her partner. Ruby grinned as she gave the feline ninja a thumbs up and even Weiss also had a very supportive smile on her face. The Belladonna daughter felt herself breathe a little easier knowing that Razor and Sienna Khan had changed the White Fang for the better than it was under Adam, although she hoped those who still served the Red Fang would soon see the error of their ways like Ilia did before it would be too late.

"When told about Borealis Base, Khan sent some of her men to scout it out. However, they came back with news that was akin to something out of a nightmare; everyone at the base was dead, signs of an intense battle, and a chilling message in the snow which was seemingly etched by a bladed weapon. Four squads of Atlesian soldiers, plus Paladin battlesuits and aerial support, explored the base's ruins and collected the bodies they could find, and as far as they could tell there seemed to be only one assailant…which many within the intelligence branch find quite puzzling and unnerving." Ironwood reported as calmly as he could, "Here's an image of the message."

A click of the remote and a new screen appeared, bringing up the picture of the disturbing message, 'Those who had died here were weak. This attack on your Kingdom is just another step in your long fall to utter defeat. The Mistress of Grimm shall rule over you all. - The Son of Salem'

Many of those present were rather unsettled by the frightening message, even the battle-hardened Specialists. Even as he heard soft murmurs of conversation from the other members of Team Beacon, Sharp Strike also noticed more than a few Remnant Knights exchanged quiet whispers with each other, including Tranquility who leaned over a little and spoke briefly with Soul Seer on the podium upon which the Knight delegation stood.

"'The Son of Salem'?" Argo's hologram inquired, "Do we have any idea who that is?"

"Unfortunately, none." Ozpin replied with a shake of his head, "I heard nothing of such an individual while I was her captive. Miss Nikos? You were their 'guest' for some time and had far more freedom to encounter such individuals within their organization than I had. If you already knew of this 'Son', I think you would have told us."

"O-of course I would have." Pyrrha answered, surprise on her face as she tore her gaze away from the message, "But honestly I didn't know everything; Cinder and the others obviously kept 'Fotia' deluded about a great many things except for those they allowed her to know, but I'm fairly certain that no one ever said anything about Salem having a son. I knew there were other Grimm Commanders kept in stasis, so that's probably where this poor Mavis girl came from, but I'm afraid I'm just as in the dark as you are."

"Miss Rose, Mr. Arc, I assume the same goes for you two?" Glynda's hologram put forth.

"No. I never even heard of people like Tyrian or Thorn while I was there as a living punching bag for them, much less someone like the Son of Salem," Jaune said, shaking his head, "I was too busy trying to stay alive."

"Same here." Ruby added with a nod, "They didn't speak a lot aside from idle talk and taunts, since they clearly didn't want us finding out too much about them."

"Hmm…so Salem has added another dangerous pawn to her forces, one who is apparently quite deadly and powerful judging from the evidence we've seen so far, and also someone which we know absolutely nothing about." Glynda's hologram surmised with a hand to her chin, "Aside from a name which is possibly a title, and even then it's just telling us he has a relationship of some kind with Salem herself."

"Regardless what his relationship to the Grimm Mistress is, he's a deadly adversary," Argentius spoke from the podium where the Knights were standing, "And since he can single-handedly demolish an entire military base full of Atlesian soldiers, I suggest that we should not underestimate the threat he poses even if we somehow encounter him in a battle."

"My thoughts exactly," Henry's hologram added quietly, "Even though this is the first ever instance of an individual actually claiming to be related to the Grimm Queen."

"And then there's the catastrophic attack on Fort Valor." Ironwood said as he started bringing up photos and holographic reports of the death toll and the horrible damage done to the base. Those who hadn't been informed of the attack were stunned speechless by the pictures of the vicious carnage wrought to the buildings and personnel of Fort Valor, of the broken bodies left behind in pools of frozen blood, of the severely wrecked mechs and armored vehicles that laid scattered about the place as though a hurricane had torn its way through the base. Then there was the peculiar yet unsettling images of the massive footprints that were left in the snow leading away from the military base and deep into the nearby mountains. "The scale of the attack, and the clues that had been left behind which were discovered by recovery teams, looks to me as though it was led by an Elder Grimm, and quite likely a new breed never encountered given that these footprints don't match any known Grimm tracks on record."

"That can't be good," Qrow murmured to himself, "I have a bad feeling that it's a lethal one from the size of those feet."

"Whatever this thing is, it is clearly massive and incredibly dangerous as it can wreak such vast amounts of havoc on its own, and just like The Son of Salem we regrettably lack any other information of what this Grimm beast is or how it even looked like." Ozpin commented softly, "Nonetheless, I believe this might not be the case since only time will tell should Salem choose to use that Elder Grimm to attack the Kingdoms again."

Ironwood grimaced at that thought, "Something we all would find extremely disturbing. I already have some of Atlas's top biologists studying it, trying to find any link between this Grimm beast and the animal kingdom, and should we uncover anything we shall inform the rest of you. From what I do know, the Remnant Knights have also put some of their people on it, and I sincerely appreciate their help, but until then I think there are still other important matters we need to turn our attention to at the moment. Grand Knight Master Seraph?"

The leader of the Remnant Knights gave an almost imperceptible nod of his winged helmet-covered head to acknowledge Ironwood's words and said, "Indeed, General. Due to the scale of the attacks by the enemy on both Atlas and Vacuo City simultaneously, our Order's hands were forced to intervene and as a result the secrecy of the Knight Order has been unfortunately compromised beyond recovery."

Seraph looked in the Winter Templars' direction, locking the azure lenses of his helmet with that of both the Knight of Air and Cold Steel for a brief moment before he continued to speak, "While this course of action was unavoidable given the circumstances, and many of us knew there would eventuality be a time in which the Remnant Knights would have to come out of the shadows and reveal our existence to the people of Remnant, I believe some of the Knights in the Winter Templars overplayed their hands."

"In addition, the presence of two detachments from both the Relentless Crusaders and Eternal Warriors Knight Legions openly engaging in combat with the Grimm and enemy agents during the battle for Vacuo City also exacerbated matters since they were witnessed by many fleeing civilians and members of the Vacuo defense forces, despite the Vacuo authorities trying their best to clamp down hard on video footage," Tranquility carefully mentioned from her place beside Seraph, "Finally, through her actions at Shade Academy the Summer Maiden had also revealed to the people of Vacuo City the presence of the Remnant Knights since they were seen guarding her while she spoke in the open courtyard to calm the people in order to prevent a major riot."

Sharp Strike looked in Heliosia's direction, his sharp eyes noticing that even though her face had remained relatively calm the Summer Maiden's hands had clenched a little tighter on the arm rests of her seat at the mention of her actions after the battle, especially her choice to reveal herself to the people of Vacuo City. While he knew her actions were forced upon her by circumstances she couldn't control, it unfortunately brought the existence of the Maidens and the mysterious Remnant Knights further into the light, all but destroying the Order's secrecy. But thanks to her the people of Vacuo City didn't quickly descend into ruinous rioting and allowed the Kingdom's authorities to re-establish control over the civilian population, thus successfully averting potential second Grimm incursion which would have proved disastrous for the Kingdom's depleted military forces. The knight errant quietly reminded himself to bring that up when he was called up by his superiors to present his personal report at a later time, and mentally thanked Heliosia's tolerance when she didn't snap an immediate rebuke when she heard Tranquillity's words.

"Grand Knight Master." The hologram of the Knight of Air, the huge and heavily armored Knight Castellan of the Winter Templars spoke up, "I know that the open deployment of the majority of the Winter Templars' assets irrevocably exposed the Order, but I take full responsibility for it since Hephaestus City occupies strategically important route that leads directly to Atlas City and also vital to the northern Kingdom's overall manufacturing capabilities for its military forces. The loss of such massive military-industrial facilities to the Grimm would diminish Atlas's ability to replenish any losses it suffered, which would in turn reduce the entire Kingdom's survivability while also allowing the invading Grimm to have an unobstructed way to the capital city. And if it had fallen the prediction of the remaining major cities would have only a number of weeks at best to survive against a second major Grimm attack. After receiving information that thousands of civilians couldn't be evacuated in time from our intelligence agents within Atlas, I made my choice to deploy the Indomitable Bastion."

"It was only with the Winter Templar's invaluable assistance that Hephaestus City managed to hold on until the reinforcements arrived," Ironwood mentioned, "The Grimm managed to destroy a section of the wall and were on the verge of breaking into the city's interior when the Knight Legion arrived to fight them off, therefore saving thousands of lives."

The Knight of Air's hologram turned to look at the Knight Order's leader, "As I said earlier, the final decision to deploy the Winter Templars Knight Legion into battle was mine, and I'm fully prepared to face the consequences that come with it. All of the Knight Cavaliers under my command followed my orders, including Cold Steel who I assigned to lead the ground assault against the Grimm hordes outside Hephaestus City. If any reprimand is required, I will bear them as the Knight Castellan of the Winter Templars."

"Cold Steel?" Seraph gave a nod and then turned his helmet towards the Knight Paladin of the Winter Templars, "Do you have anything else that I should know with regards to the Knight Castellan's decision?"

"Only that the Knight of Air had made a pragmatic decision and that Hephaestus City is still standing thanks to our efforts, and tens of thousands of lives were saved as a result," Cold Steel voiced in a humble voice, "I'm not ashamed of my actions, nor of those who followed me into battle. Nonetheless, should any penance be needed, I would accept whatever punishment you deem fit, Grand Knight Master."

"Very well," The huge armored warrior leaned forward a little, a gauntleted hand resting on the chin of his winged helmet, "Knight Castellan, Cold Steel; while the two of you could certainly use a reminder on the virtues of subtlety, I nonetheless agree with your decision. Considering what was happening across Atlas, and the fact that the Winter Templars did avert a potential disaster and prevent even more senseless deaths, I will forgive your forcefulness. The unfortunate truth is that we were already exposed once the Relentless Crusaders and Eternal Warriors deployed at Vacuo City, and the Winter Templars merely added to it. In light of the unique circumstances facing us now, there won't be any punishment meted out to those knights who took part in protecting Hephaestus City from the huge Grimm incursion outside its walls, as the Knight Order would need brave warriors such as you for the troubled times ahead of us."

"And what of me, Grand Knight Master?" Snow Blade asked as he lifted his helmet, and even though he spoke softly his voice echoed around the amphitheater easily, "The Winter Maiden is dead because of my foolishness."

"Snow Blade, this isn't the time to…" Fire Walker began to speak, only to be silenced with a raised gauntlet from Seraph.

"Snow Blade, it's not your fault that Elsa died." Amethyst voiced softly.

Heliosia, on the other hand, did look sympathetic but otherwise remained silent as she linked her fingers together. Nevertheless, her maroon-red eyes narrowed a little in Snow Blade's direction, a gesture that did not escape Sharp Strike's observation. He wondered what was going through her mind at that moment, although he caught a momentary flicker of anger in those same eyes before it vanished.

Everyone else kept silent, knowing that they shouldn't interrupt a delicate matter.

"No, but I fell for the enemy's ploy. I left her with inadequate protection when I deployed the majority of the knights under my command to Glacies village to protect the civilians there from the Grimm and Grimm Knights," The Knight Vanguard continued, "The Winter Maiden wanted to go down there to save the civilians herself, but I made the fateful decision to go instead so that she doesn't need to leave Watchpoint Glacies which would compromise her safety."

"She demanded that you help the citizens of Glacies village, Knight Vanguard. Her stubborn insistence on saving them tragically led to her own demise. Had she gone down there herself, the enemy still would have attacked her with large numbers of Grimm before having Cinder Fall and Sheer Kaa to finish her off," Soul Seer explained in a neutral and consoling voice, "The Winter Maiden was always their target, and the enemy used innocents as bait to lure you and your detachment away so that they could assault Watchpoint Glacies and overwhelm them. What happened was beyond your control, Snow Blade."

"No, I could have stayed behind." The knight spoke with regret, trembling slightly, "Because of my mistake, the Winter Maiden is dead, as is her guardian and most of those who stayed to protect her. Those who survived are severely wounded and in critical condition. I accept full blame for the deaths of Commander Antos as well as the men and women under his command, and I will also accept whatever punishment you deem fit." Snow Blade finished speaking, withdrawing his sword and holding it out in both hands, clenching the metal blade as he forced himself to stand rigidly in the face of those who would decide his fate.

"Snow Blade, there isn't time to speak about regrets and self-recriminations." Argentius told him.

"But Knight Champion, my failure is far too grievous to ignore." Snow Blade pressed on, "I let everyone within the Knight Order down to such an extent that I should no longer deserve to be a member of the Order."

"Enough." Barked Seraph, making the Knight Vanguard raise his head, surprised at the outburst. "Argentius is right, there is no time for that, Snow Blade. Yes, you did make a serious error that led to a tragedy, one which we cannot afford to let happen again. But you were not aware of the enemy's movements since they hid themselves from Watchpoint Glacies' sensors, and so you thought you could placate the Winter Maiden by helping the civilians and be back before anything could happen. Yes, you should have left more of your detachment behind, but how were you to know how well-prepared our enemy was, or what else they had kept in reserve? If you were there without major support from the Knight Order, you and your entire detachment might have perished as well."

"If you wish it, Grand Knight Master-" Snow Blade started again, but fell silent when Soul Seer slowly shook her masked face in his direction.

"I will not entertain anything regarding reprimands or expulsion. There will be no further blame and admonishment. What's done cannot be changed. We can only deal with the consequences, something difficult even for the likes of us." Seraph shot back sternly and instantly, aiming a finger at the Winter Templar, "Remnant is in dire need of brave warriors such as you, Snow Blade. You must learn from this mistake, as all warriors do, but you cannot afford to let your guilt cloud your mind or destroy your spirit. I know your character, your achievements, your skills…you are a fine Remnant Knight, Snow Blade, and your service to not just our Order, but to Remnant itself, is quite valuable. You are going to remain a Knight Vanguard, and overcome this failure of yours through future actions. Do I make myself clear?"

Letting out a heavy sigh, Snow Blade nodded and replied, "Yes. I understand and I thank you for your forgiveness, Grand Knight Master." He then lowered his head but remained standing, with the prognosticator Spirit Dreamer placing a friendly hand on his shoulder to comfort him.

Sharp Strike, who was quietly watching the exchange, knew that the chastisement given to Snow Blade moments ago would have been much more severe if the Knight Vanguard had been summoned before the Round Table. While there was no punishment of any sort forthcoming, he had no doubt that when the Winter Templar detachment returned back to Tintagel there would be a summons waiting for them in the Hall of the Twelve, where harsh words of admonishment would flow from the lips of those who hold power over the Knight Legions. That's not to say there wouldn't be other kinds of punishment that would be meted out at a later time, even though every Remnant Knight would be needed for the upcoming battles facing the Knight Order. Snow Blade and the others involved in the Winter Maiden's protection would still be sent on other missions and assignments, but it would honestly take a long and difficult time for them to earn back the trust of the senior knights within the Order.

Sharp Strike glanced back at the Maidens, and saw that they had clearly noticed the depth of Snow Blade's contrition since both Amethyst and Heliosia didn't seem to be too upset with him even though he would understand if they harbored such emotions. The fact that they both were willing to look past this misstep which lamentably resulted in the death of another of their sister maidens and continuing to trust the Guardians of Remnant and the Knight Order spoke volumes about the amount of faith they had with their respective Knight Vanguards and accompanying detachments. Sharp Strike mentally vowed that such an incident would never happen again, not while he was capable of defending the Maidens from those who would harm them.

Seraph turned back to Ironwood and said, "My apologies for the interruption, you may continue."

"Pardon me, but I do have a question." Ironwood looked directly at Seraph, "While I greatly appreciate the support given by the Knight Order in defending certain important areas around Atlas and I believe the same could be said of Vacuo City, shouldn't you have deployed more knights when the situation regarding the Maidens' protection had severely deteriorated?"

"Guardian Ironwood, you must understand that while the Kingdom of Atlas and Vacuo City came under attack by the enemy, they have also struck out at other places within Vale and Mistral as well," Seraph answered, "The Knight Order has been hard-pressed in trying to counter their efforts to cause widespread chaos and destruction, hence we were unable to send more reinforcements during those attacks."

"We also barely managed to stop a huge wave of Grimm that would have reached the western side of Solitas if not for the diligent efforts of Argentius and Soul Seer." added Tranquility, who looked to the Knight Champion and Chief Prognosticator who gave nods of agreement, "If that tide of beasts managed to join up with any of the major Grimm incursions already within Atlas, the results would have been disastrous."

"I see," Ironwood sighed, "Thank you for giving us an answer, and your efforts in protecting the people of Remnant."

"That's what we have sworn to do, General." Soul Seer said politely.

"Very well. Now, onto the next topic," Ironwood began again, trying to change the subject after such an emotional moment, "We need to address the situation with Garrett Odinson, who is at present in custody within Atlas and held at an undisclosed part within Atlas military headquarters. Thanks to Headmaster Argo's actions, the Mistral authorities are currently going through his decrypted files and associated record books, trying to ascertain how many illicit dealings and crimes he's been involved in and committed throughout the years, though it's slow going and I doubt we'll find anything related to our enemy on the official records. There's also the matter of witnesses willing to testify against him to combat whatever defense his lawyers will try to use to exonerate him, but there had been many difficulties trying to find them as most of those witnesses have either died under mysterious circumstances or seemed to have vanished."

He paused for a moment and then said, "However, thanks to the efforts of Specialist Schnee, Commander Central and Team 113 of Task Force Omega who managed to obtain significant amounts of incriminating evidence from Odinson's computer files and taking him into Atlas's custody, I think the remaining witnesses, if any, will feel safe enough to speak out against him. Speaking of which, I have been informed that someone within this room has information of her own regarding Odinson. Nora Valkyrie?"

Upon hearing her name, Nora rose up from her seat with uncharacteristic hesitation, with Ren standing up with her. Ozpin gestured for them to come over to his podium where he stood with Glynda's hologram, which they complied after looking briefly at the rest of Team Beacon who gave them encouraging looks. Once they reached the podium and stood underneath the spotlights which shone down above them, Nora spoke up, "Hi…I'm Nora Valkyrie, and it's…it's been a long time since it happened, but the truth is that my parents worked for Garrett Odinson."

There were sounds of surprise from some of the Atlas military personnel, and a few of the knights also shared some whispers between themselves. Even some of the guardians of Remnant, like Luna and Argo, conversed between themselves urgently for a moment over this revelation. Nora was clearly nervous after witnessing their reactions, but Ren gently reached out and held one of her hands, squeezing it gently to reassure his partner that he was by her side. She smiled a little at him in return for his comforting gesture.

"Miss Valkyrie, are you certain?" Glynda's holographic image asked her gently.

"Yes. I didn't see him much because I was so little, but I remember my parents talking about him in our apartment. I even saw him a couple of times as I grew up, and he wanted me to call him Grandpa Garrett when I came across him speaking with my parents about jobs he wanted them to handle for him. I didn't know about my parents' job descriptions at that time, but looking back on it and putting most of those clues together I'm pretty sure my mom and dad worked for Odinson as his main enforcers or top lieutenants, or something like that. ...Their names were Oliver and Eleanor."

She went on to explain how her parents rushed home one night and packed up their belongings hastily, then rushed as fast as they could to the nearest transport hub to take the fastest airship out of Mistral City. Nora, not knowing what was happening, asked them what was wrong and the hurried explanation they told her was that they somehow found out Odinson was making deals with some very bad people. Oliver and Eleanor both vehemently opposed their boss' immoral actions, and that resulted in an intense argument which her parents all but stated that they wanted no part in Odinson's schemes. Since her parents also knew of how much influence Odinson had over other people in the Mistral capital, and also it being a matter of time before he ordered them to be silenced permanently, they fled the Kingdom's capital city using Oliver's smuggling contacts who were still loyal to him.

"Nora's story has more merit than one might initially think," Winter spoke up from the podium where she stood with Commander Central, typing onto a console's keyboard interface in front of her which caused the holographic emitter to project images of a man and a woman who looked like prime examples of those who normally serve mob bosses in the Mistral underworld; the man was rugged-looking and sported a rather muscular figure with a cocky grin on his bearded face with a mane of fiery orange hair similar to Nora's, while the woman had jade eyes like her daughter's along with a mildly playful expression that wouldn't look out of place on her daughter, "A quick search into the criminal database of the Mistral City Police Department brought up detailed criminal records on an Oliver Ragnar and a Eleanor Valkyrie, and both of them have been identified to be working for a major syndicate associated with Garrett Odinson. However, they've also been listed as missing for over a decade."

"Y-yeah…that's my parents. My mom wanted me to carry her name, since the people who worked for Odinson made so many enemies with the other gangs." Nora explained, before going on about how they made their way across the eastern Kingdom, hoping to board a ship to Vale where her father apparently wanted to meet up with a contact that would bring them to Ozpin where he would inform the Beacon headmaster about Odinson's secret dealings, only to find themselves somehow stalked by the feared Nuckelavee. They put as much distance as they could between themselves and the Elder Grimm, eventually seeking temporary refuge in Ren's hometown of Kuroyuri. But that only led to the terrifying monster attacking it and killing many other innocent civilians, including Ren's family. Nora nearly broke down again as she recounted her harrowing experience, recalling its terrible screeches in the distance as her family fled, with additional testimony from her partner whenever needed, and he consoled her as much as he could throughout the whole telling. Ruby, Jaune and Pyrrha could see from the sympathetic faces on the various Atlas Specialists and concerned gestures among the Remnant Knights that they all understood the deep emotional pain Ren and Nora went through all too well.

"So, you're saying that we can also tie Garrett Odinson with the Kuroyuri tragedy?" Ironwood inquired carefully.

"Ma-maybe…I think so…" Nora replied quietly.

"I think it's more than likely." Ren spoke up from beside her, "It all adds up; his connection to Salem, Nora's parents departing Mistral City in a hurry, the…attack on my hometown…it all ended with the deaths of our parents and the innocent civilians of Kuroyuri."

"We understand your reasoning, Mr. Lie, but that is only a theory for now." Glynda's hologram said empathetically, "General Ironwood, I believe that you mentioned agents from the intelligence branch are still interrogating Odinson for more information on our enemy, but so far he had given them very little to go on despite their probing efforts. May I offer a suggestion?"

"I'm listening, Glynda." Ironwood said.

"Since Miss Valkyrie is perhaps one of the last known survivors who escaped from Odinson's clutches alive, perhaps it would be worth a try if we allow her and Mr. Ren to meet with him under armed guard and pose some of her own questions. There's always a chance her presence might trigger an emotional response in Odison and encourage him to be more…forthcoming with his answers due to his guilt." The blonde combat instructor advised, "If we are fortunate, we might get those answers we're looking for as well; such as whether he had any connection to the Elder Grimm attack on Kuroyuri, and possibly also confessing to his supposedly connection with Salem and her associates."

The Atlesian general brought a gloved hand to his chin in thought for a few moments, and then spoke, "From what information I've received from the intelligence agents, Odinson isn't cracking even though they've used a number of different methods on him. As far as he's concerned he's a condemned man once captured by us, and those he's in league with would punish him even more harshly than what we could do to him if he spills what he knows."

"Did you try and cut a deal with him?" Councilman Henry asked.

"'Tried' being the keyword. Didn't work," Ironwood shook his head, "There's been talk of using…stronger methods of interrogation on Odinson, but we can't be sure of the information's accuracy given by him through coercion and intimidation. Nonetheless, what you have suggested is a sound plan. I can try to arrange a meeting with Odinson at the earliest opportunity…but are you willing to go through with it, Miss Valkyrie?" Winter's superior asked Nora, although not unkindly.

The hammer-wielding girl took a deep breath as Ren squeezed her hand reassuringly. "Yes," She finally said after thinking deeply for a few moments, "I-I want to see him, as I have questions of my own which I would like some answers. I want…want to know for sure why he ordered my parents to be killed."

Ozpin, Ironwood, Seraph, and the holograms of Glynda, Luna and Argo shared looks with each other before the Atlesian guardian said, "Very well. I'll make the arrangements for the meeting with Odinson, Miss Valkyrie and inform you on the details when it's done. Do you have anything else that can be advantageous to us?"

Nora and Ren looked at each other, the former then turning back to shake her head, "No, I've already told you all I know in my retelling earlier, with Ren's help to fill in any blanks I missed. I…I guess that's all the stuff I know."

"What about you, Mr. Ren?" Ozpin added.

Ren took a breath before speaking, "I…we both want to help so we can get justice for what happened to our parents and those innocents who were killed by the Nuckelavee. We want to do whatever we can to ensure the truth comes to light, and destroy the Nuckelavee so that no one else will ever have to endure what we had to." He then allowed Nora's strong hand to grip his, her own assurance giving him an uplifting feeling.

"With your help, I'm sure the truth will come to light and justice will be served. Thank you for your time, Miss Valkyrie, Mr. Lie." Ironwood finished, with Nora and Ren bowing in gratitude before going back to their seats where they were quietly comforted and praised by Jaune and Pyrrha, and other members of Team Beacon.

A short while later, Ironwood resumed speaking as he tapped his remote to minimize some of the images while bringing up the alleged emblem of the Red Fang, which was essentially the triple-slash red stripes version of the White Fang insignia with the wolf's jaws clamped around a human skull. Blake looked a little uncomfortable at the image, but managed to get her emotions under control as she saw Ozpin looking at her.

"We understand that you have something important to tell us, Miss Belladonna." Ironwood mentioned.

"And it has to do with the Red Fang, the renegade splinter faction that supposedly broke off from the White Fang after Adam Taurus's faction was brought down." added Ozpin.

"Yes, sir," Blake said as she stood up and walked up to the podium where Nora and Ren stood moments ago. She glanced back at Ruby, Yang, Weiss, Sun and the others for support, and they gave it in the form of encouraging smiles and nods.

Ozpin stood aside for her, while giving her a permitting nod. Glynda's hologram also smiled reassuringly at Blake in an effort to help control her uneasiness.

Blake took in a deep breath before saying, "First of all, what I'm going to share with all who are present here is something that we need to keep in the strictest confidence. Is it possible that we can keep this part off the record and swear everyone in this room not to reveal under any circumstances?"

"If the information you are going to share with us needs to be held in such deep secrecy, Miss Belladonna," Ironwood told her carefully, "then this must be a very serious matter. I hope you're not exaggerating."

"I would never lie or joke about something like this, General," Blake replied firmly, "Not after seeing for myself what Salem and her agents are capable of inflicting on the world."

Ironwood looked at the other Guardians of Remnant who gave him nods of agreement, and then glanced briefly at the other members of the Atlas Council who also assented. He looked back to Blake and said, "You have my word that whatever information you give us about the Red Fang will be kept absolutely secret and won't be shared with anyone else without our express permission, would that be acceptable?"

"It is, and thank you." Blake spoke with appreciation, "First of all, would the Guardians of Remnant and the Knight Order have reasons to believe that there's a chance of a potential mole working for our enemy?"

"I'm afraid we do have such concerns. And I presume you have information on who one such agent is?" Ironwood asked cautiously.

"I'm afraid not, but I have reliable information that someone within the Red Fang had a change of loyalty after certain…recent developments within their organization, and is willing to assist us in whatever way she can," Blake proceeded to summarize and explain the situation with her friend Ilia Amitola, her history with the Red Fang infiltration agent who served with her together previously within the White Fang, their fight at Shade Academy which took place during the battle of Vacuo City, their reconciliation of sorts and Ilia's eventual decision to spy on Salem's organization for them. However, she didn't mention that Ilia had clearly harbored feelings for her since that kind of information was far too personal to be shared with others.

There were several moments of silence after she had finished speaking, before Glynda's hologram voiced, "This is a very serious matter, Miss Belladonna. Are you absolutely certain you trust Ilia Amitola?"

"I do. The only reason I'm here right now is because I had friends who gave me a chance when they learned about my past and still accepted me," Blake glanced at the rest of Team RWBY as she spoke, "Whatever Ilia may have done before is in the past, and I don't think it's fully her fault because she didn't know all of the facts regarding the fall of Adam's White Fang faction. But at least Ilia's willing to see the truth behind his actions and besides…we can't exactly pass up an opportunity to get any information pertaining to Salem and her associates, can we?"

"No, we cannot," Ironwood conceded, "But at the same time we cannot ignore the chance that this could also be a trap planted by a vindictive young woman who possibly might still want revenge on you. Have you considered such a possibility, and that your previous friendship with her may have clouded your judgement?" He pointed out, the expression on his face showing that he was not really convinced.

"Yes, I have, General," Blake acknowledge as she rested her hands on the podium's railing, "Then again, she's even now doing something incredibly risky by continuing to operate within their ranks, trying her best to find out whatever information she can about their plans so as to give us an edge over Salem and her forces, which is a dangerous enough situation to be in since her actions aren't something the Grimm Queen would take kindly to if discovered."

"In other words," Tranquility remarked cordially, "Should the information that Ilia is a spy for us fall into the hands of any of Salem's agents, her life would be in terrible danger."

"Hence the reason why we need to keep this a secret, because if whoever was behind the brainwashing of General Ironwood learns of this, they will inform Salem and that will most definitely get Ilia killed or worse." Blake voiced concernedly.

"Miss Belladonna raises a valid point." Glynda's hologram spoke again, "Any information obtained by Miss Amitola could prove to be a gift or a trap in equal measure. Still, I suggest we use extreme caution if we receive any form of information from her until we can be sure that she's not actively deceiving us into a carefully-prepared snare devised by our enemy."

"I agree completely, Professor Goodwitch," Headmaster Argo's hologram added, "We should definitely be cautious, but it's too good a chance to pass up when we can potentially get ahead of our enemy and out-maneuver them next time if we know when and where they will strike."

"It would work to our advantage, if the information Miss Amitola provided is genuine," Ozpin commented as he turned to face Blake, "Miss Belladonna, has she contacted you recently?"

"Yes, she has," Blake confirmed, "She reported something that I don't quite understand but it sounds incredibly important, and that's another reason I want her spying activities to remain a secret in order to protect her. I don't want to put her in any unnecessary danger."

"I understand, and this piece of information will only remain with everyone here today," Ironwood agreed and then said, "What did Amitola manage to tell you?"

"She reported that Salem is currently planning to use the fallout of these attacks to distract us while her associates attempt to retrieve some sort of ancient artifacts. I believe the term 'Relics'." Blake revealed to them.

The amphitheater abruptly went silent, but while Team Beacon, Task Force Omega, the Ace-Ops, Penny, N1CK3L and some of the other Atlesian military officers were confused, the assembled Guardians of Remnant, Amethyst, Heliosia, Sharp Strike, Argentius, Soul Seer and many of the other Remnant Knights present knew exactly what she meant.

"It was inevitable that Salem and her agents would target the Relics." Argo commented to break the silence, "They went after the maps, after all."

"And they managed to steal both of the maps, which means two of those Relics' locations are compromised." Glynda added.

"I never thought such a day like this would happen." The hologram of Headmistress Luna confessed sadly, "Not when we have taken every possible precaution to safeguard the maps and knowledge of their very existence."

"Speaking of which, Ilia also mentioned that Salem still needs time to translate the stolen maps…so I think we can use that time to our advantage." Blake continued.

"Did she mention how much time we have?" Ironwood queried, glancing at Ozpin whose expression showed that he was deep in thought.

"A week…maybe two if we're lucky." Blake answered.

"Which means we have time on our side." said Luna's hologram, her blue eyes meeting those of the other Guardians, "With the map copies provided by Sister Rosea, we can decode the maps ourselves."

"Our Order can provide the appropriate cipher keys for the decoding attempts." Seraph stated, "Once we know the Relics' exact locations, we can launch our own attempts to recover them before Salem sends out her agents to do so."

"Would Salem also have the cipher keys to decode the maps herself?" Argo inquired.

"Due to her status as the former Winter Maiden, it's safe to assume that Salem already knows about the existence of the Relics," Soul Seer said, "From what we know of her from the Order's archives, Salem was ostensibly a knowledgeable and astute Maiden even before her tragic fall to become the Dark Queen of Grimm. Given that she had many agents and possessed certain resources in her grasp, it's highly possible she might discover the proper cipher key in time to decode the stolen maps in her possession."

"In other words, there's no reason to think she can't find out where the Relics are hidden once she has the proper tools." Argentius added solemnly.

"Which means we need to get to work decoding asap." Qrow voiced.

Seeing the confused looks evident on the rest of her teammates' faces, Ruby raised her hand which Ironwood spotted easily. "You have a question, Miss Rose?" He said to her.

"Uh, if you don't mind me asking." The leader of Team RWBY spoke a little hesitantly, "What exactly are we talking about?"

"Yeah, what's up with these Relics?" Sun chimed in.

Luna's hologram took a breath and said, "During the Battle of Vacuo City, a subordinate of Salem known as Dr. Arthur Watts managed to infiltrate the Grand Temple of Vacuo and another secure facility along with his Grimm Knights. Despite the efforts of the temple guardians, he stole a pair of maps that would reveal the locations of two incredibly powerful and important Relics."

"D-did you just say Arthur Watts?" Councilwoman Camilla gasped.

Councilman Sleet stood up from his seat and said, "That's impossible! Watts died in an incident involving the prototype Paladins years ago!"

"His presence was reported at the Grand Temple of Vacuo." Luna replied, "I have testimonies from Sister Rosea and two temple guardians who encountered him in person, along with recovered footage from a number of security cameras that showed a male individual who matches Arthur Watts's description. One, who is gifted with a mind probe Semblance, was able to ascertain the truth of his identity from that, as well as a few aliases such as Edison Maxwell."

Ironwood turned to look at the two members of the Atlas Council, slowly shaking his head, "And It appears that he's still alive, and has apparently joined up with Salem's group. We've found an office belonging to an Edison Maxwell in the capital and I've dispatched a few agents to investigate."

Both Councilman Sleet and Councilwoman Camilla looked at each other uneasily, not sure how to react to the news of Watts being alive and now clearly serving the enemy.

Qrow sighed and added, "From what information this Ilia girl has given us, the name purpose of Salem's agent matches up since I know Tyrian's mission there wasn't to steal maps. Ilia isn't playing any kind of game with us; she's actually giving legit info."

"So we should trust her," Ruby said and her uncle looked back at her.

"We're not saying we shouldn't trust Ilia, Ruby. But we still need to be careful with whatever information she gives us, just in case she wasn't aware that she's possibly leading us into a trap." Qrow defended.

"I…I guess you have a point there." Ruby said cautiously, "We just have to be more careful."

Qrow gave her a small smile, before returning his attention to the individuals speaking on the podiums.

"As for what these Relics are, well…allow us to explain to all explain…" Ozpin stepped forward and took a deep breath, before beginning to explain the story of the Relics and their creation to all present. He spoke of how after the Great Shattering, a devastating event of apocalyptic proportions which was brought about by the breaking of Remnant's moon, nearly wiped out humanity. He recounted from legends that the quartet of gods, the Two Brothers and Two Sisters, knew that humanity needed to survive and so they each bestowed a gift to the survivors which helped to keep extinction at bay. According to legends; The Brother of Light gave humanity the Relic of Choice; The Brother of Darkness gave humanity the Relic of Destruction; The Sister of the Sun gave humanity the Relic of Creation, and finally The Sister of the Moon gave humanity the Relic of Knowledge. Thanking the four gods for their generosity, the survivors of humanity used the Relics' powers to rise again from the ravaged world which was covered with dust and death.

Ozpin went on to explain how an old religious order was eventually formed by humanity to protect the Relics when they realized that the unimaginable power they had exhibited was too great and tempting, and to avoid a disaster that might come should those with dark intentions get their hands on the Relics and used it against humanity, since if one were to possess all four Relics they would be unstoppable. And so the clandestine Order separated the four Relics and sealed them in various temples scattered around Remnant, while dedicating themselves to protecting these relics in those largely-unknown locations. However, their numbers slowly began to wane over the centuries and eventually, about a decade or so after the King of Vale established the original Huntsman Academies, representatives from the Order secretly reached out to the Academies and the Kingdoms' Councils and told them about the Relics' existence. An agreement was eventually settled upon after much discussion, and it was decided that the Academies themselves would become the new secure strongholds where the Relics would be sealed within, with the academy faculty as well as Huntsmen and Huntresses being the warriors that would guard the Relics.

"So what are these Relics exactly?" Clover Ebi questioned, "Are they weapons? You mentioned they have…incredible powers?"

"In the wrong hands, the Relics can be used as weapons." Soul Seer answered in a serious tone, "They don't just contain power, they are power."

"Are they as powerful as the Maidens themselves?" Central asked as he glanced at Amethyst and Heliosia, "What's the relationship between the Maidens and the Relics, since there are four of each. Are they supposed to protect those artifacts or something?"

"I can answer that, Commander," Soul Seer turned to look at the Commander of Task Force Omega, "You see, according to the earliest legends the first four Maidens were the only ones who can open the highly secure chambers within the temples that houses the Relics, and each relic vault can only be opened by a specific Maiden."

"Winter for the gift of Creation, Summer for Destruction, Fall for Choice and finally, Spring for Knowledge," Seraph said as he swept the blue lenses of his winged helmet over everyone present, "We know that the four Maidens each possessed the power to perform great feats of magic, but in the beginning they were also the ones who act as keys to the Relic vaults."

"And what about now? Do they still have that ability?" Clover inquired.

"We can't." Amethyst whispered simply, "Neither of us can.."

"Amethyst's right." Heliosia's voice echoed through the amphitheater, which caught the attention of several people, "That particular ability of ours was rendered redundant since the Relics were now protected through other more secure means."

"Why?" Yang asked.

"The transfer of the Relics to the Huntsman Academies from the Relic temples negated the need for the Maidens to act as the keys to open the Relics' vaults." The Chief Prognosticator calmly informed them, "Additionally, should the Maiden powers fall into the hands of those with less than pure intentions they wouldn't be able to open the temple vaults to take the Relics for themselves."

"So how are the Relics protected now?" Jaune asked.

"Through more complex and incorruptible ways." Seraph mentioned cryptically.

"We will come to that in due time, Mr Arc," Ozpin assured him, before returning to where he previously left off. The silver-haired guardian then revealed an incident that happened shortly after he became Beacon Academy's headmaster, in which Salem dispatched a number of her agents who mounted the attempt to steal the Relic of Knowledge. With the assistance of other Guardians and the students there, they managed to thwart the attempt but the occurrence unfortunately exposed a potentially fatal weakness: the Relics' locations were thoroughly compromised. So after much deliberation among the Guardians of Remnant and the Knight Order's members themselves, a decision was finally made to ensure the continued protection of the Relics.

With the decision made and agreed upon by everyone, three of the four Relics were secretly returned back to their original locations. As the temple for the Relic of Knowledge was seemingly destroyed, it was instead given by the Guardians into the custody of the Remnant Knights and was currently under heavy guard within their fortress of Tintagel. As for the other Relics that were returned back to their respective temples, great care was taken to hide their exact locations in addition to setting additional traps to those already present within those temples. Citing an example, Ozpin told them that the Relic of Creation was hidden in a temple located within a forgotten city that was in turn carefully sunk into the Atlesian ocean with the help of the Winter Maiden at that time.

The Remnant Knights delegation took over the narration at this point, with Seraph mentioning that all those who were involved with hiding the Relics eventually returned back to Tintagel with their knight protectors once their assigned tasks were complete. Knowing that it would be far too dangerous to allow such vital knowledge to exist, as there was a significant risk that they would be captured by the enemy and be tortured or have the Relics' locations forcibly extracted from them through other means, the Guardians of Remnant agreed to the Knight Order's recommendation of having their memories of the deed erased with the help of the Remnant Knights' Chief Prognosticator who possessed a memory wiping Semblance.

Unseen by the others, Yatsuhashi cringed slightly at the mention of that particular detail due to his memories of the past in which he misused his Semblance in a fit of jealousy and wiped his mother's memory of his sister Hiyoko for a day. Thankfully his Semblance's effects were reversible, and the tall green-armored samurai involuntarily shuddered a little at the thought of a memory-wiping Semblance that had permanent effects.

"It goes without saying that if Salem manages to gain possession of these Relics, the consequences would be too devastating to contemplate," Ozpin spoke up once more, "She has not only set her sights on acquiring the Maiden powers as we can see from the presence of agents like Cinder Fall, but also orchestrated an attack on Vacuo City for the purpose of stealing the maps to two of the Relics. Nonetheless, Sister Rosea unauthorized actions managed to buy us some time to strategize our plans accordingly."

"It's not much of a head start, but we still have a significant advantage over our enemy." Seraph said, resting his hands on the podium's railing, "We will formulate our strategy over the next few days once the map copies are properly decoded."

"True, and we will need the right team for the mission at hand, one which is strong in terms of skills and cooperation, with their resolve unquestionable. I have no doubt that there is one such team made up of quite excellent candidates already in this room." Ozpin said as he gestured to the various members of Team Beacon with one hand, surprising them with his confidence.

"Are you sure about that?" Taiyang spoke up from his seat, "I mean, I trust each and every single member of Team Beacon but I don't like the idea of them constantly being in midst of various dangerous situations that even experienced Huntsmen and Huntresses would have problems tackling."

"He ain't wrong." Qrow muttered.

"I understand your concern, but the truth is that the war between the Guardians of Remnant and Salem's group would most likely escalate once she sends out her agents to find the compromised Relics. The members of Team Beacon have encountered many of Salem's pawns during their previous missions, and so they would know what to do in similar situations when operating out in the field," Glynda assured the senior Huntsmen, "We can only protect them for so long and give them our knowledge and experiences, but I know that they all have an equal right as much as we do to fight for the future of Remnant that all of us live in."

Her hologram looked to Ozpin and added, "I believe Ozpin shares the same thoughts with me on this matter as well."

"On that point I agree with you, Miss Goodwitch." Ozpin voiced evenly as he fixed eyes with Taiyang and Qrow, "After witnessing Team Beacon's remarkable achievements, I've learned to have more faith in the young than in the old. Besides, I think it's clear to many of us that the members of Team Beacon aren't children anymore since they have fought bravely against Salem's agents and various types of Elder Grimm on a number of occasions. While I admit some of them might be young at heart, but after witnessing everything they have been through so far I can't think of another team I would put my trust in with such a vital mission."

"I see your point," Ironwood conceded, "Even I can't deny that they have achieved much as of late from the many situational reports I have received."

"Wait, if the Relics are so important to the Guardians of Remnant and you wanna get them first, why not send a big fleet with your best troops from the Atlas military forces?" Scarlet asked, "Or better yet, send an entire army of Remnant Knights! Wouldn't that be a better option?"

Tranquility shook her head and said, "That's unfortunately not possible, as the Order's secrecy has already been compromised beyond repair, so we cannot move as freely as we did in the past without alerting Salem to any new actions we make. As the war against Salem continues, a fairly large number of other battles and skirmishes have suddenly sprung up across Remnant which demand the attention and fighting strength of the Knight Legions. Several detachments of Knights are already committed to ending those battles before they can spread outwards to engulf substantial regions of Sanus, Anima, Menagerie, and even in Solitas's wintry surroundings, and the Kingdom of Vacuo can spare no military forces after the recent massive Grimm incursion of their capital city. While some of the knights' efforts have been successful, the servants of the Dark Queen do not cease in their atrocities to cause further chaos and destruction outside and around the four Kingdoms whenever they are able to do so."

"In other words, we are all stretched very thin. Some more so than others." Seraph mentioned bluntly, "But you have my word that the Knight Order will send as much assistance as we can when the Relics are properly located and in need of swift extraction."

"What about the Atlas military forces stationed outside the Kingdom?" Ross posed his own question, "Would it be possible to divert some of them to assist Team Beacon when they depart to find the Relics?"

"Those I haven't recalled have their own tasks to focus on." Ironwood replied concisely to the Flight Captain, "Most of my top Specialists and even the majority of the S.W.O.R.D. branch will be too preoccupied dealing with the fallout of the attacks on various military installations and cities, not to mention hunting down any remaining Grimm that could pose a perilous threat. I've lost too many good men and women to those devastating attacks, and I cannot send out any more soldiers without comprising Atlas's security." Admiral Nemo, Captain White, and the others accepted Ironwood's words with quiet agreement.

Sharp Strike tapped the chin of his helmet with one finger in thought at what he had just heard. The knight had an inkling of how precarious the situation facing Atlas was at the moment, but hearing it straight from the mouth of General Ironwood was an entirely different thing. Salem had stepped up her game, unveiling even more of her hidden pieces on the chessboard, while the Guardians of Remnant and the Knight Order were hard-pressed to match her moves when the weakened Kingdoms could be potentially invaded again at any time. On the other hand, they couldn't sit behind the Kingdoms' walls and wait for Salem to come to them, and they needed to get to the Relics before her. The knight errant felt his face frown a little behind his face-plate, realizing that he didn't like most of the potential outcomes.

"Still, I believe I do have a bit of good news to share," Ironwood allowed a hint of optimism to enter his voice, "There have been a couple of reports that mentioned unlicensed Huntsmen and Huntresses, better known as the Guerrilla Hunters, were spotted helping out in battles that took place in some outlying Atlesian cities and even protecting small towns and villages from Grimm attacks."

Ruby and Jaune smiled at that, wondering if some of these outlaw Hunters had known Ashe at some point.

"Similar warriors were also sighed in Vacuo City,." Luna's hologram confirmed with a nod, "Their assistance, while unexpected, were welcome and much appreciated since it helps free up the Kingdoms' armed forces for other more pressing matters."

"Glad to see that they're pitching in to help," Qrow commented as he looked at Ironwood, "Even though it's against the law to operate without a Huntsman's license. So, are you planning to arrest 'em or something?"

The partially-cybernetic Atlesian general looked to figures and holograms of the other Guardians of Remnant before saying, "No, we need all the assistance we can get right now. As long as those guerrilla Huntsmen and Huntresses don't test the boundaries of the Kingdoms' law and focus on eliminating the Grimm and helping out with rescue work, we can let them be…at least for the moment."

"I suppose that's fair and reasonable." Taiyang mentioned, and Qrow nodded his head too.

"In order to obtain these Relics successfully, we're going to need the help of experienced archaeologists and historians. I would recommend the services of Professor Oobleck, Professor Crane, and possibly Professor Port as well if we are heading into areas with large concentrations of Grimm. As capable as Team Beacon is, it would help them greatly to have guidance when they need it." Glynda said as she glanced over at the assorted members of Team Beacon who were whispering amongst themselves.

"And you can't talk me out of being involved," Qrow voiced gruffly, "I'm going."

"As am I." Winter added decisively, "We're going to need every capable agent to retrieve these Relics, so I volunteer to join them on the mission, if you can allow it, General."

Ironwood thought for a moment, before eventually looking the Schnee Specialist in the eye and giving her a slow nod, and Winter thanked him almost immediately. The Atlesian General then held up a finger, "With regards to me sending out troops to assist Team Beacon with the Relic retrieval, whole I can't send an army…I do have another option available: Task Force Omega. They are a professional team with a competently capable leader, and they specialize in delicate missions such as high-priority target retrievals. Furthermore, they also have their own Strike Corvette in terms of transport, and they would be indispensable should Team Beacon run into any of Salem's agents. The Ace-Ops will remain in Atlas since I have further assignments that require their skills and expertise."

"Of course, sir," Central acknowledged his superior's words by sitting up straighter in his seat, while the other Omega Troopers gave their agreements shortly, "My team and I will assist Team Beacon's mission anyway we can."

"There's still one problem; we haven't truly asked the team themselves." Glynda's hologram pointed out, "What do you think, Team Beacon?"

Ruby looked over to her teammates, including the newly-joined Sharp Strike, who all nodded back at her. She smiled and answered Glynda with, "You couldn't drag us away from this mission."

"Same here." Jaune spoke in a positive tone, "We are all in this together."

"You can't separate the individual teams within Team Beacon, so you can count us all in." Coco voiced with a grin.

"Ya got that right." Sun agreed.

"I would appreciate the chance to fight alongside N1CK3L once more." Penny mentioned brightly as she looked at N1CK3L who nodded his helmet-covered head back at her.

"Very well, then that's settled-" Ozpin said but was suddenly interrupted by Heliosia.

"And what of us? I would like to know what the Guardians of Remnant and the Knight Order have planned for Amethyst and I. We have a right to know." She stated.

Ozpin sighed and answered, "Truthfully there is no simple answer, Heliosia. After that public speech and display of your powers in the courtyard of Shade Academy, word of your existence and abilities has spread far and wide, and that will compromise your safety."

"Professor Ozpin makes a valid point," Seraph agreed as he stared directly at Heliosia, "By coming out into the open and revealing yourself, you effectively made yourself a target in the eyes of those who would seek the Maiden's powers for themselves. There have also been reports from several of the Knight Order's agents around Remnant that while many people may see you as their potential savior, there have been mentions of powerful individuals who were less than pleased with your actions. While we can't exactly confirm whether they have any sort of affiliation with Salem, there's a high chance they might take matters into their own hands to deal with you for whatever reasons or grievances they have, which is an additional problem we can do without."

"And with the death of the Fall and Winter Maidens," Glynda added guardedly, "That makes you the remaining senior Maiden of the Maiden Sisterhood. There are many options we can explore, though I seriously doubt either of you would appreciate any of them that we guardians have in mind."

"If those plans include locking us away in some hidden temple or secret military facility of yours, you can forget about them." Amethyst huffed defiantly as she crossed her arms.

Ironwood glared at the Spring Maiden and said, "If the issue of your safety is up to me, I would gladly keep you both locked up behind dozens of rows of tall armored walls guarded with hundreds of troops and crowned by multiple cannon systems at all times, because of how incredibly important you are to us."

"And if you have done exactly that then maybe it was a huge mistake for us to trust you in the first place." The Summer Maiden replied quietly.

"Heliosia," A small frown appeared on Ironwood's stern face, "Many among the Guardians of Remnant and the Knight Order have expressed grave concerns over you and Amethyst's safety, especially after Elsa's death. We appreciate the trust you've given us, but with your identity revealed to the people of Remnant it's even more imperative that we need to protect you as much as we can, and also with whatever we have since it's inevitable that Salem or her agents could strike out at you both soon. I'm sorry that it's come to this, but certain sacrifices to your freedom and conveniences have to be made in order to allow your assigned protectors to perform their duties of protecting you to the best of their abilities."

"I understand the significance of your concerns..." Heliosia voiced reluctantly, raising a hand to forestall any Fire Walker might say to her when the Knight Vanguard leaned close as though to whisper to her, "But I feel I have to voice my objection to any plans of keeping us in one place."

"Same goes for me." Amethyst agreed, "I sure as hell don't want to stay in a single place and wait for the enemy to come and find me."

"You might not like the current situation we face right now." Ironwood remarked as he jabbed a finger in the Maiden's direction, "But what I've just told you is the hard truth, and after recent events I highly recommend we take a new approach when it comes to protecting you."

The Spring Maiden glowered right back at him, while Heliosia's hands tightened on the armrests of her chair as she stared at Ironwood with narrowed eyes. The sheer intensity of their expressions would have cut through the thick armor plates of Atlesian warships instantly, and told Ironwood what the two Maidens thought of the reasons he had just mentioned.

"Guardians Ironwood, please," Seraph stepped in quickly, and the general sighed again, "While we know that you value your freedom to help the people of Remnant, we cannot ignore the increasing threats to your safety. With our enemy now in possession of the power of two Maidens, it won't be long that they make another attempt on your lives."

"Let 'em try, we'll send their thugs back in pieces." Amethyst boldly declared.

"Amethyst, please. We do not wish to lock you away against your will or make you resent us through our actions." Glynda informed the Maidens, "But we need to be careful with the knowledge of your presence, especially after losing Elsa."

"Your reasoning isn't wrong, Professor," Heliosia unlocked her hands and gestured, "But I'd appreciate it if you and the other guardians would at least let us Maidens have a say in whatever decisions you make and respect our own choices as well. After all, we chose to trust you."

"I know that all too well, Heliosia." Ozpin replied, "But the situation facing us now is extremely dangerous, and one wrong move could inevitably result in irreversible consequences for everyone and everything on Remnant."

"Fellow Guardians of Remnant," Came Argentius' calm voice, "I have a proposal that you may wish to consider. If Team Beacon are to embark on missions to help us obtain the Relics, they will need all the knowledge and power they can get, and the Maidens have much to offer in terms of both. While the safety of the Maidens is paramount, it would be better for them to be constantly on the move rather than stuck in one place, and we also must obtain the Relics before Salem and her agents can. I believe we can reach a compromise; by allowing Amethyst and Heliosia to join Team Beacon, who will in turn protect their new friends to the best of their abilities, which have proven to be quite impressive.

"And while it's risky, we must also consider that Team Beacon will not be alone on this mission. Veteran Huntsmen, an Elite Atlesian Specialists and Remnant Knights will be involved. Since the Atlesian military forces are already at their limits protecting the severely damaged areas of Solitas, I cannot think of any better guards available at the moment to be given the appointed task. In addition, by adding them both to the current roster Team Beacon will be rounded out to twenty members in total," He looked around and asked "Do you all find that concession acceptable?"

Ozpin nodded and Amethyst, her violet eyes brightening immediately after hearing the idea, grinned and said, "You bet your shiny armor I would!"

Trying not to laugh at her sister Maiden's enthusiasm, Heliosia also gave a nod to signal her agreement, "I personally think it's a wonderful idea, Argentius. Thank you for finding the middle ground."

Ironwood exhaled slowly as though to keep his composure intact, "I'm not convinced that it's the best solution, but at least it's a sensibly feasible one. Considering Team Beacon's record thus far and how effectively they have worked with the Spring and Summer Maidens in the battle for Vacuo City…I suppose the suggestion has merit. Team Beacon, do you all agree to work with the Maidens and protect them to the best of your abilities, and perhaps even your lives should the situation come to it?"

"Yes sir, General!" Ruby answered confidently

"They're our friends now, and we won't let any harm come to them." Jaune said.

"Since they agreed to join us, we would be more than happy to welcome them to Team Beacon." Coco added.

"I'm sure their skills and abilities would help a lot!" Sun quipped.

Ozpin, Ironwood, Seraph and the holograms of Glynda, Luna, Argo, Henry shared looks with each other as though contemplating any lingering unspoken difficulties for a few quiet moments, with the blonde combat instructor looking not very optimistic about the recent proposal. Then she shook her head and gave Team Beacon a small smile, showing that she trusted her students enough to let it happen. It was a short while before the Grand Knight Master finally said, "Very well, the Guardians of Remnant have all agreed that this is an acceptable idea for the moment."

"Agree." Ozpin said as he gestured with one hand, "We shall make plans to retrieve the Relics once the maps have been properly decoded by the Knights. Team Beacon, I would suggest that in the meantime you should get to know the newcomers to your team and rest up for the journey ahead of you. It will not be an easy one, but I speak for all the Guardians that we have faith in you all."

"Thank you for your confidence in us, sir." Ruby said, beaming at Ozpin.

"One last thing; I believe Mr. Arc and Miss Nikos have something important to share with us?" Ironwood looked to the pair of Crystal Guardians, "Is it also related to what Miss Belladonna told us earlier?"

"Yes, but the information we possess is only meant for the ears of you and headmaster Ozpin only." Jaune replied, after looking at Pyrrha and Blake, "I apologize for the confidentiality, but that's the condition we have been given when in possession of such information."

"Mr. Arc, I believe this amphitheater is probably secure enough…" Councilman Henry began, but stopped speaking when Ironwood raised up his hand. Ozpin instead simply raised an eyebrow at Jaune's words.

"Very well. Mr. Arc, Miss Nikos, Miss Belladonna, you can share your crucial pieces of information with me and Professor Ozpin in my office later." Ironwood said, "But are they really that important to warrant such secrecy?"

"Yes." Pyrrha mentioned quickly, "Because it could potentially endanger the lives of certain individuals…and there's something that you and Ozpin should know because it concerns Atlas."

"I see. I shall indulge your given reasons this time," He then turned back to address everyone present within the amphitheater and banged his gravel for attention once more, "Now that we have covered almost everything in this meeting, it would be prudent for everyone to get some much-needed rest. Specialist Winter, Specialist Clover, Commander Central, I will meet with you three at another time to continue your mission briefing. Penny and N1CK3L; Doctor Polendina would like to meet you both at briefing room Petra Eight at the East wing after this meeting. Team Beacon; once the locations of the Relics have been deciphered a further briefing will take place on board Hyperion One before your deployment on the mission. Is everyone clear on their individual tasks?"

Nods of acknowledgement and a chorus of "Yes, General Ironwood" came back to him.

"Very well. Thank you all for coming to this meeting." Ironwood said as he looked around with a grateful look and a small smile, "Meeting adjourned."

After the meeting had concluded and the majority of those who attended it had left, a select few individuals such as Ozpin, Ironwood and Seraph stayed behind to converse with each other on certain things that had been mentioned during the meeting. After informing Team Beacon to go to the main waiting area outside the amphitheaters, the group of Hunters left with the two Maidens and their Knight Vanguards Wind Runner and Fire Walker. Along with them came Argentius and Soul Seer, who were each escorted by a quartet of halberd-armed knights with storm grey-cloaks that flowed from platinum-colored clasps on their shoulders. The intricate embroideries seen on the cloaks of the Knight Champion's escort were silver in color, while those for the Chief Prognosticator were golden as noted by several members of the team.

The chamber where the main waiting area resided in was a huge octagon, featuring dark blue walls and tall white pillars that held up the ceiling. One of the walls was occupied by eight elevators, while the wall directly opposite had large opaque glass doors that open onto a viewing platform that was cleverly shielded from the cold Atlesian elements through the use of azure hard light Dust and thick glass panels. Hallways presumably leading to other meeting rooms and briefing amphitheaters branched off from the chamber, while hologram portraits depicting renowned Atlesian military commanders and holographic images of historical battles were projected through hidden emitters onto the walls themselves. The area was well-lit due to the circular white lights that shone down from the ceiling, and stocked with several comfortable-looking sofas and chairs which were arranged around glass tables which had a few pots of fresh flowers placed atop them along with some refreshments that comprised of rectangular-shaped drinks and boxes stamped with the Atlas emblem that contained a variety of different food that ranged from dried food, fresh fruit to sweets.

When Team Beacon arrived at the chambers along with the delegation from the Knight Order, they saw someone familiar already waiting for them there with a four-man bodyguard escort who were standing a short distance away from him. Dr. Joseph Polendina looked up to see Penny and N1CK3L coming out from one of the hallways, and a friendly smile on his lips as he pushed himself up from the sofa and used his wooden cane to steady himself. The android girl cheered in delight as she shouted her father's name and immediately ran forward to hug him, while N1CK3L simply walked at an unhurried pace until he reached Dr. Polendina's side and greeted his creator with a polite salute. The members of Team Beacon, along with the two Maidens, found themselves smiling as they witnessed the heartwarming reunion and also noticing that Penny's developing behavior and gestures were easily akin to a real human being.

"Hello! It's wonderful to see you all again. And everyone, please, help yourselves to the food and beverages available." The Polendina senior said as he gestured to the food items arrayed on the tables, "I'm sure all of you could do with some refreshments."

"Thanks, Dr. Polendina!" Ruby thanked him, a sentiment echoed by many of the others.

"Don't mind if we do." Coco added as she nodded at the elderly doctor.

As they waited for Hyperion One and the Knight's stealth airships' to be given green light to leave for the Schnee Manor by the Atlas Council, several of Team Beacon's members helped themselves to the food and then sat on the many sofas and chairs scattered around the main waiting room. They made small talk among themselves about recent events, taking care to keep their voices low.

With Team RWBY sitting on one of the large sofas, Ruby had an unobstructed view of the surroundings and noticed what the other individuals were doing even as whispers of conversation and soft laughter came from the other members of Team Beacon. Over to the left-hand side of the chamber, Captain Ross was deep in conversation with Qrow and Taiyang, with Ciel standing beside the three of them slowly sipping from a bottle of water and checking her scroll. Winter was speaking with Commander Central and Specialist Ebi of Task Force Omega and Ace-Ops a short distance away, her gloved hands moving along with the words that came out of her mouth. The tall, handsome Atlesian commander would nod subtly every few minutes and gesture with a gauntleted hand presumably to point out something, while the Ace-Ops leader simply rested his own gloved hands on his waist and added his words into the conversation whenever necessary. The other members of Task Force Omega and Ace-Ops were seated at the far side of the waiting area, conversing among themselves and sometimes laughter could be heard coming from their direction as they either reminisced some past humorous moments or shared a good joke among themselves. Amethyst and Heliosia were seated with Team Beacon, although Wind Runner and Fire Walker weren't too far away from them as they hovered close along with the other knight protectors. Snow Blade, Cold Steel and Spirit Dreamer were standing with other Winter Templars at another part of the chambers in what looked like a small circle, perhaps talking among themselves in a quiet conversation with Argentius and Soul Seer. Sharp Strike stood beside the Maidens, silently observing them with his gauntlets resting lightly on the pommel of his relic sword that was covered by its black and gold sheath belted to his waist.

Ruby found herself smiling a little at this moment of calm, enjoying the words of friendship and camaraderie that flowed through the air, and silently wishing that it could last as long as possible since she knew there was no telling what could possibly happen once they all set off on the new mission to retrieve the Relics.

A few minutes later, Winter excused herself to make her way towards the gathered Remnant Knights and the Maidens who were speaking with Team Beacon. She arrived just in time to hear Wind Runner say, "Most of the Knights within Atlas will be leaving soon, now that the strength of Order is sorely needed to counter other emerging threats elsewhere on Remnant. However, my detachment and Fire Walker's will remain behind since we haven't been formally discharged from our protection duties at the moment, and so we will be escorting the Maidens to the Schnee Manor and continue to watch over them during their stay there until we receive new orders."

"Uh, pardon me, Remnant Knights," Sage spoke up, "But both Amethyst and Heliosia will definitely be safe now that they have all of Team Beacon and Sharp Strike, plus the Schnee family's security forces to protect them. That's an awful lot of protection already in place, I'm sure the Maidens would definitely be safe."

"As we haven't been given any new orders for now, I'm afraid our previous orders still stand; which are to protect the Maidens to the best of our abilities and even give our lives if necessary." Fire Walker stated, "After what happened to the Winter Maiden, the Order isn't taking any chances with the safety of Heliosia and Amethyst."

"Wait, I got a question too. Since the Winter Templars will be leaving, will Snow Blade and Spirit Dreamer be leaving with them?" Jaune inquired from between Pyrrha and Ruby.

"Yes." The leader of the Eternal Warriors' detachment answered, "They've just received new orders to return with Cold Steel on board the White Sovereign back to The Indomitable Bastion for further debriefing and reassignment, since they are all required elsewhere."

"I hope that the presence of two detachments of Knights at the manor wouldn't be a problem for the Schnee family." Sharp Strike turned to look at Winter, "It would be a temporary measure while the Eternal Warriors and Relentless Crusaders perform their duties out of sight, of course."

"I understand. I'll ensure that there will be no problems with the security staff at our home," Winter replied, "I'll alert the security patrols of your protection duties, so they won't accidentally attack any of the Knights should they be spotted. And the empty guest chambers in the Manor's East Wing will hopefully provide more than enough room for the several Knights that will be staying with us for the time being."

"It's not that we do not trust you with the Maidens' safety, since the Schnee's security forces have proven themselves to be diligent and vigilant." Wind Runner assured the Schnee Specialist, "Once our superiors have given us fresh orders we would also leave as well, and also entrusting the protection of the Spring and Summer Maidens to Team Beacon and their mentors."

"You have my vow that neither of them would come to harm." Winter said solemnly.

"Trust me, Specialist Schnee, with your impressive skills and noteworthy summoning abilities there's very little chance that the Maidens' safety would have any problems" Fire Walker assured her while bowing a little in gratitude, "You also have our thanks in advance for allowing us to stay at the Manor so that we can perform our duties easily."

"You're welcome." Winter said with a nod.

"So you aren't leaving us?" Amethyst asked after she swallowed a mouthful of sweets from the food box held between her hands, "This isn't where we say goodbye?"

"Not at the moment, Amethyst." Wind Runner said smoothly, "Not today, at least. Despite the fact we are quite near Atlas City, ensuring your safety and that of Heliosia's are still our sworn duty."

"Well, if you have left it would have been too bad." Amethyst commented, "I've gotten rather used to having you guys around."

"Same here." Heliosia agreed as she looked at Fire Walker with a smile, "Despite the fact we may have disagreed on a few things in the past, I'm still grateful of you and your detachment's vigilance."

"Thank you, Heliosia." The Knight Vanguard of the Relentless Crusaders replied.

"Besides, you're going to need as many people as possible to keep you out of trouble." Wind Runner quipped as he tilted his helmet a little.

The Spring Maiden snorted a little even as her cheeks grew pink for a moment, then put a few more pieces of sweets into her mouth. She then swallowed and said, "I just do what I want at times, because that's the way I am. I'm…I'm sorry that I can be such a pain sometimes."

"That's an understatement," Stone Claw muttered, while faint noises that sounded suspiciously like chuckles came from the other Eternal Warriors standing behind him. They all fell silent immediately when Wind Runner shot them a pointed look.

"I accept your apology, Amethyst." Wind Runner shook his helmeted head and sighed, shaking hands with the Spring Maiden. He then looked to Team Beacon and added, "Nonetheless, I trust you all will do everything in your power to look after her."

"No harm will come to her as long as we're around." Coco promised the Knight Vanguard of the Eternal Warriors.

"They're part of Team Beacon now." Velvet said with a smile, "And we always look after and protect each other."

"And after what we saw at Vacuo, I'm sure we're in very good hands," Heliosia said as her maroon-red eyes met the faces of Ruby, Jaune, Coco and Sun, "And I look forward to being part of a team again."

"Me too!" Amethyst chimed.

"And I promise the both of you, that I will fight together with the Maidens and protect them with my life," Sharp Strike said to both Knight Vanguards, "On my word and honor as a Knight."

"We know you won't disappoint us, Sharp Strike." Fire Walker said, the tone of his voice letting Sharp Strike know how much the Knight Vanguard trusted him.

Wind Runner clasped wrists with the younger knight and gave him a nod, saying, "Your valiant actions and deeds have more than proven to us that the senior knights' choice is the right one."

"Team Beacon, may Argentius and I have a word with you?" Soul Seer's voice reached their ears, and the two Knight Vanguards gave the group a respectful bow before withdrawing to a respectful distance as Ruby's mentor and the chief prognosticator approached them.

"Of course, Soul Seer." Pyrrha said with a polite smile, as the group walked off to listen to the Knights.

"You have all been given a great responsibility, but we know you've been through enough trials to prove that you are all more than capable of braving the long journey you have ahead of you." Argentius told the whole team, the grey lenses of his knight helmet looking at each and every member.

"However, the road ahead will not be an easy one since you all have been entrusted with knowledge hidden from most of Remnant," Soul Seer's golden eyes glowed a little on her mask-covered face, "While I'm capable of seeing the future through my Semblance, my visions have become somewhat clouded as of late. I have caught glimpses of possible events here and there, but one thing remains constant throughout them all; Team Beacon."

"Wait, so you can actually see the future?" Yang asked, and the female prognosticator nodded, getting an impressed sound from the blonde, "So you know what's going to happen to us?"

"My clairvoyance doesn't quite work that way, Miss Xiao Long," Soul Seer answered with a gesture of her gloved hand, "Most of the time the visions I saw have come to pass, but in some instances other events turned out differently because I saw parts of what would happen in them. Other times I cannot be certain of certain outcomes, or else I would have done more to warn everyone else about the attacks. Nevertheless, I do know of some events that will certainly happen, but I rarely speak of them unless necessary because every word spoken can possibly have unintended consequences on the future we have."

"But what can you tell us?" Weiss queried.

"My visions are clouded, because the future is ever in flux. Always moving, always changing as it can be affected and reshaped by the actions of any given person," Soul Seer answered smoothly, although Sharp Strike noticed that there was a tiny hint of reluctance within her voice which he had rarely heard before, "I do know one thing though; that each and every single one of you in Team Beacon will have an important role to play to determine Remnant's future."

"Then…will we all survive that final battle?" Amethyst asked, her voice suddenly soft. A number of Team Beacon's members and even some of the Knights looked at her when she spoke those words.

"I can't say, Amethyst," The Chief Prognosticator eventually spoke after remaining silent for a few heartbeats, "That's far ahead in the future, too many possible outcomes, many of them are too vague for me to determine, even for my foresight ability."

"I…I understand." The Spring Maiden's shoulders slumped a little at the female prognosticator's words.

"In other words, we don't actually know how it will end for any of us." Heliosia quietly commented, and Sharp Strike's helmet subtly turned in her direction when he heard those words.

"The future is never fully set in stone, Maiden Heliosia." Soul Seer replied softly.

"I believe you, Soul Seer." The Summer Maiden's eyes then met the gold lenses of the senior prognosticator's masked and hooded face, "Although I think you won't be allowed to tell any of us even if you knew of our fates, right?"

"Unfortunately, I am forbidden by ancient laws of the Prognosticatum to divulge any of such details unless in extremely dire situations, Heliosia." Soul Seer shook her head, and then continued in a cautious voice, "And if I do know of your fate, is that something you really wish to know? Even if it's possibly a future you cannot escape from?"

The Summer Maiden held Soul Seer's emotionless gaze for a few moments and then said, "No, I don't. I personally would rather be unburdened by any knowledge of my fate than to know of it."

"Or we could simply change the future for the better, if you were honest with us," Pyrrha suddenly said, "I used to believe in destiny, but that brought only suffering to not just myself, but the people I love. You just said that the future isn't set in stone, so why do nothing if you could help it?"

Everyone looked at Pyrrha, surprised by her uncharacteristic firmness, but they all knew that she always got rather tense when such a subject was brought up.

Pyrrha seemed to understand her bluntness might have come off as rude, so added apologetically, "I…I spoke out of turn, and you have my sincere apologies."

Soul Seer gave a small sigh and replied, "I accept your apology, Miss Nikos. While there is wisdom in not wanting to know too much, one must always try to anticipate and avoid certain It is good that you show such wisdom in not wanting to know too much, as that is never a good thing, but you have my word that if necessary, I will warn you to prevent a tragedy."

"Thank you, that's all we'd ask." Ruby told the prognosticator.

"There is one more thing." The Chief Prognosticator of the Knight Order gave a nod before turning to Winter, "I believe your family has an extensive archive about their bloodline and Atlas' history within one of the towers. Would it be possible for you to grant us permission to access it?"

Winter thought for a few moments and answered, "It should be possible, although we'd need to request permission from my father in order for you to enter that tower. May I ask why you want access to our archives?"

"It's for research purposes," Soul Seer said easily, "And because both Argentius and I always wanted to see the Schnee Manor's private library tower for ourselves, since we heard so much about its extensive collection of tomes and historical artifacts."

"Understood, I'll inform you once I clear it with my father." Winter answered, earning a grateful thanks from Soul Seer.

Meanwhile, Penny had just finished telling Dr. Polendina about what she and N1CK3L had been through over the last few days, while the enhanced tactical android stood in a relaxed stance and listened in polite deference, only adding his observations when their creator required some clarification.

"That sounds like quite the adventure you shared, I'm just glad you both made it out in one piece and I'm happy you seem to get along quite well." Dr. Polendina commented, smiling.

"Why wouldn't we?" Penny beamed happily, "I know a lot about N1CK3L, and he knows a lot about me! Even in combat operations, we also complement each other's combat strategies effectively and efficiently!"

"My own observations have yielded the same results," N1CK3L remarked, "And I am gratified to report that the Armor Packs you supplied me with assisted me greatly in combat situations with optimal results, Dr. Polendina."

"That's wonderful," The old scientist said, "I'll need a copy of your combat information later when you come to my lab for routine maintenance work, as General Ironwood wants to study the results for himself. And perhaps I can show you a few new upgrades I've been working on for your armor."

"Of course, Dr. Polendina." N1CK3L replied with a nod, "I will provide whatever you require."

"Wait, so you aren't coming with us to the Schnee Manor?" Penny asked.

Her brother android slowly shook his head, "No. Besides reporting to Dr. Polendina for my routine maintenance check, I also need to attend another meeting chaired by General Ironwood with the rest of Task Force Omega at a later time. So I will be indisposed for a while."

"So…I guess it's goodbye for now?" Penny looked at N1CK3L's eyes, "But I'm still happy that we won't be separated for long since Task Force Omega is coming along for Team Beacon's next mission."

"Something like that, Penny." The combat android replied as he managed to give her a small smile, "I will tell you what happens when we meet again, even though we are saying goodbye to each other temporarily."

"Sounds good to me!" Penny grinned as she bounded forward to hug her brother android.

N1CK3L felt his face shift into a smile as he returned Penny's affection for him by hugging her back, albeit awkwardly since he wasn't used to such familial gestures. However, when the masculine android saw Dr. Polendina's proud smile when he saw both of them embrace N1CK3L noticed a strange feeling within himself, he wondered if this was the sensation known as happiness.

Meanwhile with Team RWBY, Ruby hugged Taiyang, telling him, "It's too bad you can't come with us."

"Yeah, it's gonna suck not having you with us again." Yang voiced.

"Eh, I'll be all right girls. Glynda wanted me to stay and help her watch over Ozpin, not to mention that I still have to help out at Beacon Academy with the students, especially since Oobleck, Port and Crane going to join your team to help get those Relics since you're going to need all the help you can get. Plus, I'm probably gonna have to get Madame Mallari to look after Zwei while we're busy since she's grown quite fond of him. Still, it wouldn't hurt for you to send me some pictures of the Schnee Manor…but remember to behave yourselves when you're there." Taiyang told them with a smile.

"You got it, and say hi to Madame Mallari when you see her!" Yang told her dad before hugging him.

Ruby turned her head towards the other large transparent windows of the main waiting room, looking out at the capital city of Atlas, seeing airships moving out from their landing pads to help other cities and towns in need or transporting both incoming and outgoing squads of Atlesian soldiers and Hunters. Even though the enemy had withdrawn, there was still plenty of work for the Atlas government to do before things could return to anything resembling normal.

"Hey guys…" She suddenly spoke up and the members of Team Beacon turned to look at her, "Do you remember when we were at Ashe's grave over a week ago?"

Jaune nodded and replied, "Yes. Man, that seems so long ago now."

"With all the fighting and everything else that's happened, it's hard to believe that wasn't even two weeks ago." Sun commented, the rest of Team SSSN nodding in agreement.

"Well…remember that promise we all made there?" Ruby continued.

"Of course." Pyrrha replied, while many others nodded, except for Sharp Strike, Amethyst and Heliosia.

"I won't forget, because that's a promise we all intend to keep." Blake stated.

"Good, because after everything we've gone through in the last few days and now that Team Beacon has new members, we can't forget that promise," Ruby mentioned confidently, "In fact, I think we need to renew it."

"May I ask what is the promise you speak of?" Sharp Strike inquired.

"A promise that we will all do our best to stop Salem and everyone who works for her." Jaune answered firmly.

"A promise not to forget all those people who are dead because of them." Yang added as she locked eyes with Pyrrha for a moment.

"Ashe, Elsa, Kaifin, Aunt Raven, my mom Summer, Cardin, even the people forced into working for her like Torchwick, Colonel Cy and Cedric. Not even just them, but everyone…and we mean everyone, who have lost their lives and suffered because of Salem." Ruby said.

"And just like we said back then, we're going to do everything in our power to make sure Salem and her lackeys fail miserably." Weiss stated firmly.

"It doesn't even matter if we're the ones who do it, as long as they're defeated." Fox noted quietly.

"Though given the patterns of events so far, there's a pretty good chance we'll get to kick their asses again." Coco voiced with a poised smile.

"And considering the fact that Salem still wants us for whatever she's planning, and Cinder as well as the others who serve Salem obviously hold serious grudges against us for spoiling their plans, I don't doubt we will see them again, and probably sooner than we think." Jaune said as he gripped Pyrrha's hand.

"And we're never going to back down from whatever they throw at us." Blake commented, sharing a smile with Yang as they looked at each other.

"And the best part is we will never fight them alone, because we always have each other." Pyrrha said as she took Nora's hand, smiling at her fellow JNPR teammate.

"Well, if that's the vow you're taking, then you can count us in." Amethyst said joyfully.

"Amethyst is right. As Maidens, it is our duty to help this world and protect it from harm. We will do everything in our power to help you." Heliosia agreed.

"I also vow to help you," Sharp Strike stated, "If this world is to survive, we all need to come together. Here, I see people from all walks of life. Men and women, Humans and Faunus, and even an android. Huntsmen, Huntresses, Maidens, Remnant Knights, and soldiers…we may come from different backgrounds, different Kingdoms, but we all have the same purpose."

"To protect this world from anything and everything that would threaten it," Ruby finished, "And we will do it together, as Team Beacon."

Ruby extended her arm and placed her hand out, with everyone else quickly placing their hands atop hers, including Sharp Strike, Amethyst and Heliosia. Surprisingly, even Qrow and Winter joined in by putting their hands atop the others.

"We're all in this together, kids." Qrow voiced as he looked at the assembled Team Beacon members.

"We're not going to give up, no matter how bad things may get in future." Weiss said.

"No matter what we lose, no matter whatever and whoever Salem throws at us…" Sage spoke.

"No matter how many hits we take, or how many times we're knocked down…we'll always get back up." Sharp Strike added, and felt his heart race a little faster when he noticed Heliosia nod at him.

"And keep on moving forward despite everything..." Jaune said determinedly, sharing a look with Pyrrha.

"And we will stop her together. That's a promise that none of us will ever break," Ruby finished, "Team Beacon forever?"

The promise was something that everyone agreed with. "Team Beacon forever!" They all chorused.

"They're going to accomplish great things, and I don't need visions to know that." Soul Seer commented softly, while sharing a look with Argentius.

Smiling behind his emotionless faceplate, the silver-eyed Knight Champion replied, "It won't be easy, but if there is a team that can bring salvation to this world…I believe the young group before us is the key."

After clearance has been granted for their departure, Team Beacon made their way down to the landing pads where Hyperion One was waiting along with the Knight Order's stealth airships. When they stepped onto the landing pad where the Mobile Airborne Command Ship resided, Ruby stopped and looked out to the landscape outside the tall reinforced walls of Atlas Military Headquarters. In the distance, she could see the outline of the large metropolitan city and the smaller cities leading towards it. It was a beautiful view with towers and skyscrapers of all sizes being visible from afar, all seemingly with a blue color scheme to them, and it was only a small part of a beautiful world that Ruby would do anything to save. The leader of Team RWBY started to let her thoughts wander as she kept staring at the snow-covered expanse before her, and her teammates took note of when they noticed she had ceased walking.

"You okay, Ruby?" Weiss asked her.

"Yeah sis, you were kind of staring off into space." Yang observed as she placed her organic hand on Ruby's shoulder while the others boarded Hyperion One. Jaune, Pyrrha, Ren, Nora, Penny, Qrow and Sharp Strike stood at the base of the advanced airship's ramp, waiting for Team RWBY to catch up.

"I'm…okay. I was just thinking about how different things are now; how much we've all been through, and about how far we have all come in the last two years. I'm not that girl who just happened to be in the Dust shop Torchwick was robbing, I'm one of the leaders of Team Beacon…and a skilled Huntress like I always wanted to be." The Rose daughter sighed a little.

"Well, I wouldn't go that far. Deep down, you are still the Ruby we all know and love." Yang assured her sister.

"You have matured considerably since we met," Blake noted, "But thankfully not too much."

"Because I don't think we'd want to have you in any other way." Weiss admitted, smiling at her partner.

Ruby smiled, and she faced her team to reply, "And I wouldn't want to be a part of any other team except Team RWBY."

She raised her arms, reaching out towards both Weiss, Blake and Yang who closed in automatically, so that the four girls embraced as a team and relished their closeness with each other. Their own special bond, forged through all the hardships and battles they fought, was strong and wouldn't be broken so easily.

Suddenly, a thought came to Ruby's mind and she began to laugh.

"What's so funny?" Blake asked with a curious expression.

"I just realized something; Torchwick was stealing Dust for Cinder, who answered to Salem. If it wasn't for Salem, I wouldn't have gotten into Beacon Academy early, or met you two," She explained, looking directly at Blake and Weiss, "Or the rest of our friends."

Yang smirked and said, "Man, talk about screwing yourself over."

"When you put it that way, it sure looks like Salem planted the seeds of her own destruction." Blake noted wryly.

"And that seed will blossom into a rose." Weiss remarked, a smirk on her face.

"And this rose has everything she needs to stop Salem. Because I have my friends and the people I love by my side." Ruby voiced, smiling brightly.

With a joyful cheer, Team RWBY resumed walking towards Hyperion One, rejoining the rest of Team Beacon and readying themselves for the next step of their journey.

This chapter was co-written by Relentless Crusader, who I couldn't have done this without.

This chapter was originally going to include the group going to Schnee Manor, getting a tour of the place, and Ruby and Weiss making a startling discovery, but we'll save that for the opening of the next arc.

Hiatus time, we'll see you sometime later on in the year, perhaps towards the end of it.

I hope you will join us for the fourth arc; Relics.

If you liked this story fave, follow, and review. A special thanks to all my readers.