Chapter 2: Secrets & Shadows

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Deep in concentration, Jaune Arc furrowed his brow as he pondered his next move. His responsibilities as a student at Beacon Academy greatly limited his movements, making it impossible for him to leave the school for an extended period to establish a secondary base for Chaldea. Luckily, he still had the servants and Chaldean staff to help him out.

After careful consideration, Jaune and the Chaldea Security Organization staff had settled on a location nestled deep within the abandoned dragon continent, specifically in one of its imposing mountain ranges, both for its isolated location and its natural defenses. Over the past few days, a dedicated team of servants and staff had tirelessly worked to construct and fortify the base, ensuring its defenses were formidable.

The base boasted an array of advanced security systems, carefully designed to protect its inhabitants. Bounded fields, artfully crafted by the talented caster servants, formed a multi-layered configuration that shielded and hid the entire facility. The walls surrounding the base were not only reinforced but also enchanted, offering an additional layer of protection against potential threats. This was further reinforced by the various automated turrets both on the interior and exterior of the base. As well as placing various artillery and anti-air emplacements in strategic positions around the base.

Jaune's thoughts then turned to the underground expansion of the base. Alongside the living quarters and backup generators, he had overseen the establishment of a spacious cafeteria, sparring rooms that occupied an entire floor, and magical workshops strategically separated from the main facility to ensure safety. While at the same time leaving plenty of space for further expansion.

The demands of his dual roles had left him with precious little time to catch up with Da Vinci and discuss the pressing day-to-day matters transpiring within the organization. It remained a universal truth that paperwork waited for no one. Yet at the same time keeping up with his studies at Beacon as to not fall behind. The need for secrecy further complicated matters, restricting his ability to freely travel to the Chaldea base or communicate through conventional means. His metal connection with his servants only got him so far.

Frustrated yet undeterred, Jaune sought out alternative means to bridge the communication gap. With a touch of his signature resourcefulness, he devised a plan to delegate the task of gathering information about the current state of Remnant to the ever-resourceful BB. Known for her exceptional hacking skills and unparalleled access to data, Jaune entrusted her with the crucial responsibility of staying abreast of the developments unfolding in Remnant.

"BB," Jaune addressed the virtual AI assistant. "I need you to dive deep into the networks, gather as much data as possible on the current affairs of Remnant. We need to stay informed, especially with the threat of Grimm and look into the political situations in all of the kingdoms."

BB's holographic form shimmered, her digital eyes gleaming with enthusiasm. "Consider it done, Master Jaune! I shall navigate the intricate web of information, uncovering hidden truths and tracking any significant events. Remnant shall remain within our grasp!"

Secure in the fact that BB would remain on top the information wing of Chaldea, Jaune turned his attention to another crucial task at hand. The criminal underbelly of Vale had been festering, causing unrest and posing a threat to the stability of the region. With a cunning mind like that of Moriarty at his disposal, Jaune devised a plan to take control of the criminal elements and restore order to the troubled city. It would be best to control the criminal underworld instead of having it working against Chaldea.

"Moriarty," Jaune called out, his voice carrying a sense of authority befitting a leader and the burden of command from his experiences. "I require your expertise in subterfuge and manipulation. Vale's underworld has grown out of control, and I intend to put an end to it. I want you to infiltrate their ranks and establish your authority, bringing them under our control."

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