The Way of the Maiden

TheCourtofTalons · Jun 20, 2023

Chapter 19: The Rescue

"And how goes your latest project?"

"Nearly finished. Just a few finishing touches, and it'll be ready just in time for the festival."

"Wonderful. I must say, you've outdone yourself with this project."

"The city of Atlas gave us the inspiration. Now, with the contributions and resources of all four Kingdoms, this Vytal Festival can-"

"Excuse me, sir."

General Ironwood looked up from his computer screen to see a uniformed officer at his door. And he wasn't very pleased with the interruption. "Private, I'm in the middle of a meeting," he said.

"I apologize for the interruption, but I have some news."

"Can't it wait until I'm finished here?"

"I'm afraid not, sir. A ship was cleared to land two minutes ago, and two men in Mandalorian armor are asking to speak with you. They have something they think you need."

Ironwood stood up and looked to his computer. "Would you mind if-?"

"Of course not, James," a voice on the screen said.

Ironwood first gathered a group of armed soldiers outside to come into his office in case things went sour. He had a good idea as to who one of the Mandalorians was, but decided not to take any chances. "Send them in," Ironwood ordered.

The door opened to reveal two men in Mandalorian armor, one of them carrying a handcuffed Watts. The sight of the Mandalorians caused the soldiers in the room to raise their weapons. But the General wasn't alarmed, as he recognized the one holding Watts.

"Mando," Ironwood greeted. "This... is a surprise."

"I'm surprised to be here myself," the Mandalorian replied. "But as you can see, I have a good reason for being here."

"Are you armed?"

"Only with my armor."

"...Stand down," Ironwood ordered. All the soldiers lowered their weapons, and the warriors walked towards the desk. Ironwood walked away from the screen and towards Djarin. He then turned to Watts. "I didn't expect to see you again so soon."

"Let's just say he was in the area," Djarin said.

Ironwood turned to his guards. "Take the doctor away."

Watts was grabbed by his arms and dragged out of the office. "Oh, I can't believe you captured me," he said with dry sarcasm. "You've truly shown me the error of my ways, James." The General rolled his eyes at the comment, then walked back to his computer.

"You did the Kingdom of Atlas a service, Mandalorian." Ironwood opened a drawer in his desk. "And you've certainly made my life a lot easier. I'm sure you're here about the-"

"I know about Watts' reward," Djarin cut him off. "But I'm not interested in money. I need your help."

Ironwood closed the drawer and looked back. "...While I am grateful for what you've done, I don't normally lend my help in matters that don't concern Atlas."

Boba turned to Djarin. "You heard him," he said. "We're not getting his help."

Djarin looked back to Boba. "I'm not leaving this to chance." Djarin turned to Ironwood again. "General, this is about Atlas. I know where Gideon is, I need your help to stop him."

Ironwood wasn't expecting to hear that, and the first thing that came to mind was joy. "You... You do?" He immediately walked over to Djarin. "This is a silver bullet. I don't care how you did it, but if you tell me where he is, I can-"

He immediately stopped talking as a question asked itself: why did the Mandalorian come here? If he knew where Gideon was and wanted to go after him, the Mandalorian didn't seem like the man who asked help easily.

It was then he saw the Mandalorian was missing something.

"The little girl you've been traveling with. He has her, doesn't he?"

Djarin nodded. "I can't stop the insurrection alone," he confessed. "I need your help."

"Where is he?"

"His ship is near Argus."

"One moment." Ironwood walked over to his desk and looked at the computer screen. "I apologize, I'll have to call you back."

"I understand."

The man on the other end watched his screen turn off as the call ended. He took a sip from a mug on his table before pulling out his Scroll. Dialing a number, the man pressed the Scroll on his ear.

"Hello?" a woman's voice answered.

"It's me," the man said. "Are you still on your mission in Mistral?"

"I just finished it. Why, is everything okay?"

"I have a feeling James might need your help. How close are you to Argus?"

The talk with General Ironwood went rather well. He promised to lend the Mandalorian whatever ships he could provide and the military base at Argus would be put on high alert. However, their preparations would take an hour to mobilize, and a half hour to reach Argus. Djarin knew he had gained an advantage, but he had a bad feeling that time was running out for Cinder.

So, he decided to seek out more aid. And he had a good feeling on where to find some.

Boba left the Slave I in Atlas as Djarin used his Semblance to take himself and Boba to Mandalore. They appeared in front of the crater Bo-Katan showed him, where the Heiress and Koska Reeves were watching Atlesian drones and automated vehicles perform arduous construction. In fact, Clan Kryze had made significant progress on their domed city while Djarin was in Mistral. The outer lining had been finished, now they could focus on the plating and the buildings inside.

Koska Reeves saw the duo approaching them and was about to attack. But her leader saw them as well and put an arm in front of her. They remained stationary as Djarin approached her. "You've made progress," he noted.

"It wasn't hard," she remarked. "The ships we captured gave more material." Bo-Katan began to walk back to the construction site. But Djarin wasn't finished with her.

"I need your help."

Bo-Katan continued to walk. "Not all Mandalorians are bounty hunters. Some of us serve a higher purpose."

"...They took the child."

Bo-Katan stopped and looked back. "Who?"

"Major Gideon."

Bo-Katan turned away. "You'll never find him."

Koska silently agreed and walked back to her leader. Djarin was about to protest again before Boba spoke up. "We don't need these two," he said. "Let's get outta here."

Bo-Katan and Koska immediately looked back to the source of that voice. "You are not a Mandalorian," said Bo-Katan.

Boba looked back towards the woman. "Never said I was."

Koska joined in her leader's banter. "I didn't know sidekicks were allowed to talk."

Boba would normally take offense at being called a "sidekick" of all things, but he merely chuckled. "Well, it certainly takes one to know one." Koska dropped all sense of humor and moved closer to the bounty hunter. "Careful, little one."

"You'll be talking from a hospital bed."

Bo-Katan knew when to stop pointless insulting. So, she put a hand on Koska's shoulder. "Alright, easy," she ordered. "Save it for the outsiders."

Djarin was also tired of the senseless fighting. So, he decided to get back to his point. "We know where he is," he said.

When he first arrived, Bo-Katan thought Djarin was wasting her time. But the mere mention of Gideon's location had captured her undivided attention. "You can bring me to Major Gideon?"

"The Major has an Atlesian airship," said Djarin. "One of a kind, a prototype designed by the kingdom's best scientists. It could be helpful in your effort to rebuild Mandalore."

Further negotiations were interrupted by Boba, who immediately became disgusted with the idea Djarin proposed. "You gotta be kidding me," he said to Djarin, ignoring the fact the other Mandalorians were right in front of him. "That's why they're here? This place is just an ash pit."

Bo-Katan stopped thinking about Major Gideon and looked back at Boba. If looks could kill, the bounty hunter would be dead the second her eyes locked on to him. "You are a disgrace to your armor," she said, every word laced with anger and disgust.

The mere mention of his armor and the idea of disrespecting it made Boba lose even more of his patience. "This armor belonged to my father."

"Yes, I know. He disgraced it as well."

Boba immediately moved closer to Bo-Katan, invading any sense of personal space. "Careful, princess."

Bo-Katan smirked before she continued, feeling a sense of pride from the fact she touched a nerve. "I've heard of you, Boba Fett. And your father. I knew he was a man who gave up everything he was taught just to make easy money." She looked at his armor up and down. "And it seems the apple didn't fall far from the tree."

Boba's hands transformed into fists. "...Let's see what else the two of us had in common."

Rather than Bo-Katan taking the challenge, Koska sent a fist towards Boba. He immediately dodged the attack and grabbed her other fist. Boba successfully threw Koska into a metal beam. Once she hit it, Koska felt a wire wrap around her left arm. Boba's goal was to pull her into another attack, but the Mandalorian held her ground, refusing to be pulled from her spot.

Instead, she used her other arm to pull Boba towards her. Koska was then able to send a knee into his gut, one that was protected by his armor and Aura. So, Koska used her jetpack to fly off the ground. She threw Boba into a pile of spare parts, and turned on her flamethrower once she touched the ground. Boba was quick enough to turn his flamethrower on as well, and the jets of fire met each other, neither one reaching any further.

"Enough! Both of you!"

Bo-Katan and Djarin knew their fight would end one way or another, so they didn't bother to interfere. But now, Bo-Katan had run out of patience, she wanted to get back to the topic of Gideon. But she had one more thing to say. "If we had shown half that spine during the War, we would've never lost our home." The woman always took Mandalore's defeat to heart, and used it as an example in times of defeat and strength, which was why she spoke as if she actually lived through each battle.

As the fires died down, Bo-Katan turned back to Djarin, explaining that she would help him. In return, she wanted both the ship and for Djarin to reconsider joining her. "Fair enough," he simply replied.

"One more thing," she said. "Gideon has a weapon that once belonged to the Mandalorians. I'm sure you've heard of it."

Djarin took a moment to think, and then remembered what Cinder asked him once they left Mandalore. "You're saying Major Gideon has the Darksaber?"

"We've seen him with it," said Koska. "Once before meeting you, again when we went to Vale. He and his men took us by surprise... not all of us made it back."

Bo-Katan remembered their mission after Djarin left. Their plan was to infiltrate a small base with something she needed. She told Djarin that it would keep any enemies away from Mandalore, so taking the base was necessary. However, the base was "honored" by a surprise visit from Gideon. Once the trio was discovered, Axe sacrificed himself to buy Bo-Katan and Koska time to escape. Now, they had their chance for vengeance.

"I will kill the Major and take what's mine," Bo-Katan promised. "With the Darksaber in my hand, the Mandalorians will finally be within my reach."

Djarin wasn't entirely sure how he liked the idea of Bo-Katan controlling the Mandalorians. But he had a more pressing matter at the moment. "Help me rescue Cinder and you can have whatever you want. She is my only priority."

After Djarin took everyone back to Atlas, they made a plan. Using the ship Watts was taken in, Djarin, Bo-Katan, Koska, and the Happy Huntresses would go to Gideon's ship. Boba and Fennec would stay on the Slave I, and they would make their arrival look like an escape from an attacking ship. Once they landed inside, they would kill everyone they saw and rescue Cinder.

At the moment, everyone was speaking with General Ironwood through the ship's computer. Bo-Katan didn't like the idea of working with Atlas, and she wasn't sure if he had any idea of her thievery, but it was a necessary evil.

"This is Major Gideon's airship," said Ironwood. The screen was showing an image of an airship with the title Bismarck on the top left corner. "It's a prototype, one that can hold a crew of several hundred."

"It shouldn't hold that many," Bo-Katan said to everyone. "Word is they've been losing soldiers because of Atlas and Huntsmen."

"Your assessment is misleading."

Everyone turned back to the screen as a new voice entered the conversation. Ironwood looked to his left and whispered to someone who wasn't on the screen. After a few more seconds, the General nodded and moved aside, letting a Mandalorian in black and white armor step into view.

"Who are you?" Djarin asked.

"A member of Clan Vizsla," the Mandalorian answered. "A clan who Gideon enslaved using the Darksaber. We were at Nevarro when the child was taken. I've been tracking you since you left... I want to help."

"How do I know you're not lying?"

"This isn't subterfuge. I assure you."

Before Djarin could protest, Bo-Katan moved closer to him. "Let him speak," she ordered. Djarin said nothing, giving the Mandalorian a chance to speak.

"My people are the ones who kidnapped the child. We, Clan Saxon, and Gideon's insurrectionists comprise the ship's crew."

"Where are they holding Cinder?" Djarin asked.

"The brig is in the lowest level of the ship. She's the only one being held under armed guard."

"Very well," said Bo-Katan. "We split into two parties."

"I go alone," Djarin protested.

"Fine." Bo-Katan looked to the others in the ship. "Phase one, our ship issues a distress call. Two, we emergency land at the mouth of the fighter launch tube, cutting off any potential interceptors. Koska, the Huntresses, and myself disembark with maximum initiative. Once we've neutralized the launch bay, we make our way through these tandem decks in a penetration maneuver."

"And me?"

"We'll be misdirection. Once we draw a crowd, you slip through the shadows, get the kid."

"May can use her Semblance to help us travel faster," said Robyn. "It'll give us the element of surprise with other Mandalorians."

"We'll need it to get to the bridge in one piece," Bo-Katan agreed.

"That's where we'll meet," said Djarin.

Bo-Katan agreed, but pointed out one last thing. "Major Gideon is mine. Got it?"

General Ironwood reappeared on the screen before Djarin could answer her. "He's an ex-Atlesian officer. We need him alive."

She turned back to the screen. "I don't care what happens to him as long as he surrenders to me."

Ironwood nodded. "I'll go make the final preparations. Good luck."

Djarin turned off the screen, leaving General Ironwood alone with the Vizsla Mandalorian. "My men will be ready soon," he said. "Come with us, I promise we can help your people."

"I can't," said the Mandalorian. "You do not know about my clan, but we are duty-bound to follow whoever wields the Darksaber." The Mandalorian removed his helmet and dropped it on the floor. "By helping you, I broke my oath. There is only one punishment for an action such as this."

"Wait, you can't-"

"I must." The Mandalorian walked towards the door, and a uniformed officer with brown hair and a mustache entered as soon as he was about to walk out. Before he did, the Mandalorian turned back to the General. "You have all you need. Now, go. Stop Gideon. Save my people." He left without another word.

The officer turned to Ironwood. "General, our men are-"

*BANG*

Both men turned to the door, but neither moved. Instead, Ironwood sighed and turned to the guards in his office. He gestured to the door and the guards ran outside. Ironwood turned back to the officer. "I'm sorry, Yularen," he apologized. "Did you need something?"

"I thought you should know our forces are ready," the one named "Yularen" said. "I know you were concerned about who could lead them, and I may have a solution."

"So do I. That blue skin of his may scare a few people, but his record has been nothing but spectacular. He's been toying with politics but I think he's up for the challenge. What's yours?"

Yularen smiled. "Well, sir. It seems great minds do think alike."

Major Gideon was standing on the bridge of his ship, staring out into the ocean. At first glance, someone would assume he was just enjoying the view, but Gideon had other things on his mind. He was mentally preparing himself for the upcoming battle.

From what Saxon told him, the Children of the Watch were one of the most complex groups of Mandalorians Remnant had ever known. They were predictable, always more focused on their own survival rather than the external affairs of the kingdoms.

But then again, this Mandalorian was far from predictable. Gideon knew his main priority would be to keep moving at all times, so that nobody could find him with the child. But he rarely stood his ground to fight, or even search for a fight. Given the fact that's what he was doing at this moment, Gideon was doing his best to predict the Mandalorian's next move.

He would be coming to the Bismarck, no doubt. But how?

He always traveled alone, save for the child. But would that change now?

He decided to put the entire ship on alert. His soldiers were patrolling every inch of the ship, but he kept his Mandalorians hidden for now. Once he saw how his enemy would attack, that's when they would be deployed. And once he, and any other friends he brought, were dealt with, he would use the Darksaber to take his head. Right in front of the child.

"Sir, we're receiving a distress call from an airship."

The Major turned to his communications officer, who was playing the call she was receiving on her computer.

"This is Manta 2743. Requesting emergency docking. Repeat, requesting emergency docking. We are under attack."

"Copy, 2743," said the officer. "Request received."

Gideon recognized the ship, and he knew something was wrong. He had personally ordered that Manta to retrieve Doctor Watts from Mistral. And he didn't send a female pilot. "Launch our fighters," he ordered.

"Stay clear of launch tube. Deploying fighter squad."

After a few seconds, Gideon saw a Manta deploy and fly in front of the ship. Just as it did, two more ships came into view. He could see one was the smaller Manta he sent earlier, and the other appeared to be a Bullhead with faded paint. The small Manta flew right past the one that exited from the ship and was coming close to the launch tube.

The communications officer began to panic. "Request denied!" she yelled. "Please clear launch tube until fighters deploy!"

"Negative! Negative! We are under attack!"

Gideon was starting to recognize the voice. That, and given the fact the Manta was charging into the launch tube, he knew what was going on.

Bo-Katan had returned. And this time, she wouldn't be leaving without her prize.

The communications officer tried to reason with her once again, but it was impossible. The ship was dangerously close to the launch tube, and another Manta was preparing to launch.

*CRASH*

"...Open a visual on the launch tube," Gideon ordered.

The communications officer said nothing as a blue screen appeared on the bridge's window. The screen showed a fire from the ship, and several soldiers on the ground. But everyone in the room also saw a soldier hit the ground, as if something hit his face. But there was nothing there.

After the same thing happened to another soldier, Gideon knew what to do next. "...Sound the alarm."

The chaos the Huntresses and Bo-Katan caused before disappearing helped Djarin slip away unnoticed. At the moment, he was looking for an elevator that would hopefully take him to the Bismarck's brig. He found one at the end of the hall. And he immediately ran up to it.

But just as he did, he noticed a door beginning to open. The door revealed a dozen Saxon Mandalorians equipping their armor and readying their weapons. And unfortunately for Djarin, they all saw him approach.

"There he is!" a woman shouted and pointed. Everyone in the room looked over and stared at Djarin.

"No, no!" Djarin screamed. He ran to the door control panel.

"STOP HIM!"

Every Saxon Mandalorian ran to the door. But Djarin was faster than them all, and he managed to close and lock the metal door. The Mandalorians on the other side began to beat the glass in an effort to break it, but it would take a while since it was bulletproof. And the small size of the room made shooting a rocket from their jetpacks dangerous.

"That was close," Djarin thought to himself. "Let's hope that-"

"RRRRAAAAAHHH!"

A scream and a body falling on top of his caused the Mandalorian to fall on his back. For a brief moment, he caught a glimpse of a woman's face. But the glimpse disappeared when the woman started scratching with sharp finger nails at his throat. At first, the nails managed to cut his flesh. But then, Djarin quickly engaged his Aura so the nails wouldn't get his throat. He then raised his arm to turn on his flamethrower. The flames escaped his gauntlet for a moment, but the woman's knee pinned his arm before it could do anything else. The same happened to his other arm, keeping Djarin on the floor.

The woman stopped scratching when she saw his Aura block out the pain. So, she quickly grabbed his throat and squeezed. The Mandalorian began to choke and gasp for air, moving his head to get the woman off him. But as he did, he realized who the woman actually was. It was the Faunus who wanted Cinder's power. Aurora.

"I... have come too far... to be stopped by some human... pretending to be that brat's dad!" Aurora yelled as she applied more pressure.

Djarin was losing air fast, and he was about to lose consciousness. But then, he remembered something else that he had, something that wasn't pinned to the ground: his jetpack.

He activated it and it sent him flying into the door. Aurora lost her grip and fell off him. Djarin stood up and grabbed his throat, taking deep breaths and reorienting himself. Aurora stood up and started running, with a knife in her hand. Djarin ducked when she attacked, the knife scratched the glass instead. Aurora quickly brought the blade down, but Djarin's Beskar protected his shoulder.

He retaliated with a headbutt, his helmet dealing more damage to the Faunus' face than a normal headbutt would. He immediately sent a kick to her knee, causing Aurora to kneel. Djarin then sent a harsh slap to her cheek, and Aurora fell to the ground. She looked up to see Djarin grab her shirt's collar and move her closer to his helmet. "That... was for Cinder," he said. "Everything else... will be for me."

"Don't... count on it," said the Faunus.

Aurora had managed to pick up the knife she dropped. But rather than trying to stab Djarin again, Aurora threw it at the door, and it hit the control panel. Once it did, the door opened, letting all the Mandalorians on the other side free.

"No!" Djarin yelled as the Mandalorians came rushing towards him. He dropped Aurora and pushed his arm out. A whole salvo of whistling birds flew to the Mandalorians. While some not wearing their armor were killed, the other Mandalorians managed to avoid the projectiles. Once they did, a few of them grabbed Djarin and threw him into the room. They immediately began kicking him while he was down and hitting his body with the ends of their weapons.

Aurora was about to join in, but a voice in her ear stopped her. "Aurora, the intruders are coming to the bridge. Join Gar Saxon and eliminate them."

The Faunus put a finger on her earpiece. "I'm on my way," she said firmly. But before she left, Aurora closed the door and locked it. The Mandalorians turned around and looked at her. "Just to make sure he won't leave while I'm gone," she said. "Keep him alive, the kid's going to watch him die."

A Mandalorian on the other side smirked. "Exactly how alive are we talking?" she asked.

Aurora smiled at the question. "Surprise me."

The Happy Huntresses and the Kryze Mandalorians were close to the Bismarck's bridge. At first, they slipped past everyone with May's Semblance. But when her Aura broke, they took care of the soldiers the only way they knew how.

All that stood in their way were insurrection soldiers, whose armor couldn't afford much protection from Bo-Katan's pistols. The ones that remained were quickly dealt hand-to-hand attacks by the Huntresses.

"We're almost to the bridge," said Robyn. "You think they would have put up more of a fight."

"I don't care how long this takes," said Bo-Katan. "All that matters is Gideon." She began to walk closer to the closed door, much faster than the others.

"Whoa, hold on." Fiona stopped in front of her. "We can't just go in guns blazing. Don't Mandalorians have a plan of attack?"

"I do have a plan." Bo-Katan moved aside, but looked back at the Huntresses. "Attack." She continued to walk, Koska joining her.

"Oh, I like her," Robyn said. She joined the Mandalorians while Joanna walked up to Fiona.

"Relax, Fiona," she said. "This be over before you can say-"

"Sleep."

When everyone heard the new voice and a crash, they turned around to see a Faunus pointing two fingers at Fiona and Joanna, who were on the ground. And next to the Faunus was a red Mandalorian, with a white orb in his hand.

"Well," he said, pointing to Bo-Katan. "You must be Mandalore's Heiress." The Mandalorian stopped talking as if he was giving Bo-Katan a chance to respond. But before she did, the Mandalorian shot his hand and the orb at Bo-Katan. Koska pushed her to the ground, and the orb flew past her. But before it was destroyed, the orb shot a bolt of electricity at Koska, making contact with her gauntlet. The Beskar began to disintegrate and Koksa could feel her arm burn. She quickly engaged her Aura to deal with the pain.

Bo-Katan stood and observed her enemy. "Gar Saxon," she said.

Saxon lowered his hand and pulled out a rifle. "Your 'rule' is at an end, Kryze. And it wasn't short enough." He shot two blasts of modified Electricity Dust at Bo-Katan. She took to the air and fired back.

Aurora ran to the remaining Huntresses, throwing small daggers at the duo. Robyn turned her weapon into a shield and blocked the daggers while May used her staff to do the same. Aurora then leapt into the air, sending a larger knife down on Robyn's shield.

May swung her staff at the Faunus, but she simply grabbed it and kicked her gut. The kick knocked the wind out of May, her Aura couldn't protect her at the moment.

Robyn swung her shield at Aurora, and it made contact with her face. Knocking her backwards, Robyn watched as her opponent picked up Joanna's staff. She swung the weapon, but May deflected the attack. They locked staffs as Robyn ran towards them.

Saxon was still firing his rifle at the Mandalorians and he was still in the air. The hall to the bridge was large, giving him plenty of room to fly. Bo-Katan's shots merely bounced off his armor, she wasn't able to get a hit on his exposed body parts.

Koska had just finished recovering from Saxon's attack, but she was still feeling some pain in her arm. She couldn't offer much assistance to Bo-Katan in terms of fighting, but she suddenly had an idea.

Saxon continued to fly and shoot at Bo-Katan, and only stopped when one shot hit her helmet. She became distracted, and Saxon moved closer and grabbed her throat. He began sending knees into her gut, then kicked her exposed leg. She kneeled to the ground and Saxon grabbed her throat again.

Bo-Katan looked behind Saxon, and realized an opportunity had just come to her. She pushed him off her, and extended a knife on her gauntlet. She swung the blade at her opponent's chest, sending him backwards. She began to swing her blade with fury, causing Saxon to take to the air.

He suddenly started to laugh. "You'll have to do better than-"

*SPLAT*

Saxon felt his legs and back stick to something. He tried to move his head, but his helmet was also stuck. "Wait, what the-?"

"Nice work, Koska," said Bo-Katan.

Koska came out from behind the web she just created. She had always been able to use her Faunus trait to get out of a sticky situation, as well as place her enemies into one. "You ready?" she asked as she joined her leader.

"When you are."

Koska and Bo-Katan activated their jetpacks, setting them to ramming speed. Once they did, they both sent a strong kick into Saxon's chest, which caused the web to break and the Mandalorian to crash into the ship's bridge. Bo-Katan and Koska followed him inside.

Aurora was still using the staff she stole to fight the other Huntresses. But she knew she couldn't keep the fight up much longer, the use of her Semblance and Aura for defense caused her Aura to be close to breaking. But she suddenly had an idea.

Pushing May away from her, Aurora picked Fiona off the ground and put a knife on her throat.

"Let her go!" Robyn yelled.

"Try anything and she dies," Aurora said to the shocked Huntresses.

May was the first to react by pointing the end of her staff at the Faunus. "Okay, fine," she said. "Just don't hurt her."

"That's it," said Aurora. "Nice and slow."

May formed a smile, as Aurora just failed her test. It seemed she didn't know how their staffs actually worked.

Which gave May the element of surprise.

She used it wisely, sending a bolt into Aurora's Faunus ear.

"AAAAUGH!" she screamed as she dropped Fiona and her knife. Aurora immediately began to pull the bolt out of her ear. "FUCK!"

Fiona and Joanna immediately woke up, their sleep had just ended. "Glad you two could join us," Robyn joked.

Seeing that she was now even more outnumbered and her Aura was broken, Aurora made a choice.

She ran out the door she came in.

Joanna was about to charge after her, but Robyn's arm stopped her. "Let her go," she said. "The others might need help in the bridge."

The Happy Huntresses ran to the door, weapons ready for another fight. But once they saw the various bodies on the ground, all dead from blasts in their armor, they knew another fight was out of the question. Now they had to deal with an angry Mandalorian.

"Where's Gideon?" Bo-Katan asked, looking around the room again. The Happy Huntresses looked around too, but couldn't find any living insurrectionist. It seemed Major Gideon wasn't on the bridge.

"May, get on one of the computers," Robyn ordered. "Maybe we can find him on the security cameras."

May ran over to a computer and started looking through various cameras. But all she could see were empty hallways and dead soldiers. "This ship could have hundreds of cameras," she said. "Where would he go?"

"If he's smart, he'll find a ship and fly as far away from here as possible," Joanna offered.

"The Major's a lot of things, but he's not someone who would run away from a fight," said Bo-Katan, who was looking at the security cameras as well. "Hold on. He might try to do that. But there's something on the ship he needs first."

"Not something," said Fiona said. "Someone."

"He's going after the child," said Koska. "Find the cameras in the brig."

"I'm looking." May started going through each camera, slightly increasing the speed she was clicking earlier. After a few seconds, she suddenly stopped. "Wait, what the-?"

"You found him?" Bo-Katan asked.

"No, but I found something."

Everyone moved to the monitor again, and saw what May was seeing. She was looking at a room of Mandalorians, all huddled in a large circle. And in the middle of that circle was another Mandalorian, fighting against each one. A very familiarMandalorian.

"Oh, my God," Fiona said. "They're killing Mando."

"He's still fighting," said Joanna.

"He won't last long," said Robyn. "Not against that many." She readied her weapon and moved to the door. "I'll be back."

"Robyn you can't go!" Robyn turned to see Fiona looking at the monitor. "This is from the ship's airlock, on the other end of the ship. You'll never make it in time."

"Dammit!" Robyn slammed her hand on another screen. "I hate not being able to-! Wait a minute." She looked back at May. "Where is he?"

"It looks like some kind of airlock." May pointed to the screen. "See? There's a door here that can take the Mandalorians into the air."

Robyn looked closer at the room, but noticed something was off. The room had two doors, but it also had fans, a gated floor, and holes on the ceiling. "Not into the air, May. Into the ocean."

May looked closer, and was starting to get the same idea as Robyn. "Into the ocean... the ship is sitting on. And if Mando can still use his Semblance-"

"Flood the room," Bo-Katan ordered the two.

The task was easy. The doors were already locked, and all May had to do was click on the word "Flood" on the screen. It was risky, but they knew Mando would die if they didn't do something.

As soon as May clicked the word, a light flashed and an alarm sounded in the airlock. Everyone stopped fighting and looked around. They suddenly began to panic once the room began to fill with water. Everyone started to rush for both doors, banging on them with their weapons and trying to get them open.

But Djarin simply took time to catch his breath... and teleported.

The sight made every Huntress sigh in relief. "Oh, thank the Gods," said Robyn.

"Let's never do that again," said May.

"Keep looking for Gideon."

"That... might be a problem."

Bo-Katan looked back at the screen and saw what May was talking about. More Mandalorians were running towards the bridge, all armed with rifles and pistols.

"Looks like we'll be a little busy," said Robyn.

Everyone else simply loaded their weapons and pointed them at the door.

Djarin had reached the lower level of the ship, the trip in the elevator gave him time to recover from the beating he got from the Saxon Mandalorians.

It wasn't hard to find which cell Cinder was in, given the fact that only one cell had two guards in front of it. Pulling out his blaster, Djarin fired a shot at the first one's neck, and he fell in an instant. The other turned around and fired his rifle, but the bullets merely bounced off his armor. Djarin took this chance to shoot again, and the blast penetrated the soldier's armor.

With that, Djarin moved to the door controls and pressed a white button that turned green once the door opened. It opened slowly, and Djarin could feel his spirits begin to lift at the thought of reuniting with Cinder.

He then felt his heart fall into his stomach at the sight of Gideon holding a black blade over an unconscious Cinder.

"Drop the gun," he ordered. "Slowly."

"..."

The sight before him enraged the Mandalorian, but he couldn't risk anything happening to Cinder. So, he slowly put his pistol on the floor.

"Now kick it over to me."

Djarin complied again, pleasing the Major. "Very nice."

Now it was time for the Mandalorian to give orders. "Give me the kid," he demanded.

"The kid is just fine where she is."

Gideon didn't care too much about Cinder at the moment, he was surprised this Mandalorian didn't challenge him for the Darksaber. Perhaps he didn't know what it was? Well, Gideon decided to refresh the Mandalorian's memory.

"Mesmerizing, isn't it? I almost lost it to Bo-Katan." The Major turned back to Djarin. "Yes. I know you've been traveling with Bo-Katan. A friendly piece of advice, assume that I know everything. Like the fact that your wrist launcher has fired its one and only salvo."

Djarin had no time for this, he wanted to get to the point. "Where is this going?"

"This is where it's going. I'm guessing that Bo-Katan and her boarding party have arrived at the bridge, seeking me or, more accurately, this." Gideon looked at the blade again, entranced by its unique properties. "But I'm not there. And I imagine that they've killed everyone on the bridge, being the murderous savages that they are. And now, they're beginning to panic. You see, she wants this. Do you know why? Because it brings power. Whoever wields this sword-"

"Has the right to lay claim to the Mandalorian throne," Djarin finished. He knew the story, he knew what Gideon holding the Darksaber meant. Bo-Katan was determined to take it from him, but Djarin could care less. "You keep it. I just want the kid."

Gideon was astonished to hear this. Mandalorians like Bo-Katan and the ones from Clan Vizsla would kill for the Darksaber. But then again, Din Djarin was no ordinary Mandalorian. So, Gideon knew what to do next.

He deactivated the Darksaber's blade.

"Very well." The Major moved aside. "I've already got what I want from her. Her blood. All I wanted was to study her blood. This child is extremely gifted… and has been blessed with rare properties that have the potential to bring order back to Atlas."

"..."

The idea of Gideon stealing Cinder's blood caused Djarin's anger to return to him, but he kept his composure.

"I see your bond with her," Gideon continued. "Take her, but you will leave my ship immediately and we will go our separate ways." He moved aside, leaving Djarin to walk over to Cinder. She was sleeping on some kind of metal table, her wrists and legs bound by metal restraints. Djarin saw where the restraints were connected to, and was ready to remove them.

The Mandalorian knew today's efforts would be a risk, but he didn't care. The gamble Djarin took today seemed to be well rewarded. But the thing he forgot about gambling was... knowing when your enemy is bluffing.

Gideon used his bluff well, and now he was ready to use the Darksaber to go in for the kill. He activated and swung the blade at the Mandalorian, and it crashed into his jetpack. Unfortunately for Gideon, the blade couldn't cut through Beskar. But when Djarin recovered, Gideon kept trying to kill the Mandalorian. He kept swinging the blade, and they made contact with Djarin's gauntlets. The only thing Gideon could do was send Djarin out of the cell and into the hall.

Djarin's gauntlets protected himself from the Major's attacks, he knew the Darksaber couldn't cut through pure Beskar. But now, he needed to go on the offensive. Fortunately, he came prepared. Reaching behind his cape, Djarin pulled out Cinder's scorched swords, he had been carrying them ever since he left Nevarro. He planned to return them to their rightful owner once he rescued her. Now, he was about to put them to use.

Gideon swung his blade again, but Djarin used the first Beskar blade to stop it from moving. He quickly swung the second at the Major's chest, but he was able to move away from the swing. The sword hit the wall, but Djarin was quick to recompose himself. Gideon swung his weapon again, and Djarin crossed the blades in an "X" to block the attack. Gideon pressed harder, causing the blades to burn even more.

So Djarin sent a kick to Gideon's gut, which was blocked by a black Aura. The kick caused the Atlesian to stumble and Djarin to fire a wire at Gideon's hand. But the Major simply cut it with the Darksaber, freeing himself in an instant. The wire shot back to Djarin, and he blocked more strikes from Gideon.

Suddenly, the Mandalorian disappeared. Gideon was in the middle of a swing, and couldn't stop himself from cutting the thin air. Djarin appeared behind him and slashed both swords twice at Gideon's back, which was once again blocked by his Aura.

The Major turned around when Djarin tried to attack a third time. This time, Gideon engaged his Aura and caught one blade in his right hand. His Aura protected his hand, and Gideon was free to send the Darksaber at Djarin's chest. The blade hit just below the Mandalorian's chestplate, at an exposed part. The Mandalorian's Aura deflected the attack, but it broke just as the Darksaber left.

The attack made him fall to the ground, leaving an opening for Gideon to stab him in the stomach. Which was exactly the Major's plan.

Fortunately for Djarin, he still had his flamethrower. Once it activated, the flames engulfed the front of Gideon's body. He was forced to engage his Aura and back away until the flames died down. Once they did, his Aura broke as well. But he wasn't finished just yet.

In another attempt at an exposed part of Djarin's body, Gideon raised the Darksaber and aimed for the Mandalorian's neck. But Djarin raised his gauntlet, blocking the attack. Dropping the sword, Djarin immediately grabbed Gideon's hand and squeezed.

Gideon felt the Darksaber leave his grasp and a punch to his face. He fell against the wall and could only watch helplessly as the Mandalorian raised the Beskar blades. Djarin brought them down, but they didn't make contact with Gideon's flesh. Instead, Djarin stabbed one blade into the wall, close to Gideon's neck. He stabbed the other one on the other side of Gideon's neck, leaving the Atlesian trapped between two blades inches from his neck. And the blades were pinned in the wall so that removing them wouldn't be easy. Gideon knew what this meant.

"You're sparing me," Gideon said. Djarin's silence was all the confirmation he needed. "This should be interesting."

The Mandalorian turned back to the Darksaber and picked it up. Just as he was about to turn it on and go back to Gideon, he could hear a soft mumbling from the other room. Immediately remembering Cinder, the Mandalorian ran back into the room and saw the young girl begin to wake up. Using the Darksaber to cut her restraints loose, Djarin slightly picked her up. Her eyes were still closed, she seemed to be disoriented. "Cinder?" Djarin quickly asked. She didn't respond. "Cinder?" he asked again.

This time, the girl began to open her eyes. They were only half open when she recognized the black visor staring back at her.
"No, no!"

Cinder backed into the corner of the wall as fear and panic took over. She had been in the presence of the Saxon Mandalorians long enough, and she didn't want them to touch or hurt her again.

The sight of Cinder screaming and flailing her arms nearly broke his heart, but that didn't stop Djarin from completing his mission. "Cinder, wait!" he said as he grabbed her arms. "No, no, no, stop! It's me! It's me!" Once he had both her arms, Djarin gestured to the pauldron on his shoulder. "It's me. It's Mando."

"..."

The child looked at the pauldron on the Mandalorian's shoulder. When she saw the image of a Rinocer and the rest of the silver armor, Cinder realized that the Mandalorian was indeed her guardian and friend. Once she did, Cinder felt herself fly off the table and wrap her arms around her knight in shining armor. "You found me," she said, relieved her nightmare was finally over. "I knew you would."

Djarin hugged her back, since his nightmare had finished as well. "I'm sorry it took me so long," he apologized.

Cinder began to cry. "Mando," she choked out. "I... thought you were..." She held him tighter, unable to hide her fear anymore. "I... I was... so scared!"

Djarin said nothing, he simply held her tight as she let it all out. He didn't care how long he needed to stay in that spot; he was just happy to be able to hold Cinder again.

"We're taking heavy hits down here!"

"Just hold on, we'll be there in two minutes!"

"Not enough time!"

The Happy Huntresses and Kryze Mandalorians had been trying to keep their hold on the ship's bridge, but the numerous Vizsla and few Saxon Mandalorians were making that difficult. Their Beskar protected them from bolts and blasts, they could only be hurt from melee attacks. But the Huntresses were tired and the few Kryze Mandalorians could only do so much. Bo-Katan managed to get in touch with the Atlesian military, but they were too far away to help at the moment.

All fighting stopped at the sound of a door opening. Inside stepped Djarin and Cinder, pointing their blades at a handcuffed Major Gideon.

"Wait. Is he-?"

"He is!"

The sight of a Mandalorian holding the Darksaber made the Vizsla Mandalorians move away from the Happy Huntresses and kneel. Gideon was thrown to the floor. "What happened?" Bo-Katan asked.

"He brought him in alive," said Robyn. "And now... Atlas is gonna have to double the payment."

"That could do a lot of good for Mantle," said Fiona.

Major Gideon chuckled hearing this. "That's not what she's talking about," he said. Gideon turned to Bo-Katan. "Why don't you kill him now and take it?"

"..."

Gideon turned back to Djarin. "It's yours now," he said.

All eyes moved to the floor as Gideon spoke to the Mandalorian. "What is?" Djarin asked.

"The Darksaber," Cinder answered. "Mando... it belongs to you."

"..."

Djarin was so focused on Cinder at the moment that he forgot about his duel. She was right. He beat Gideon, he won the Darksaber.

He had every right to it.

He earned it.

But then he remembered the deal he made with Bo-Katan. So, Djarin simply turned the weapon off and handed it to her. "Now, it belongs to her."

"She... can't take it," said Gideon. "It must be won in battle. Come now, you know the rules. In order for her to wield the Darksaber, she would need to defeat you in combat."

Djarin turned back to Bo-Katan. "I yield," he stated. "It's yours."

"Oh, no. It doesn't work that way. The Darksaber doesn't have power. The story does. Without that blade, she's a pretender to the throne."

"...He's right," said Bo-Katan.

"Come on, just take it."

"..."

Bo-Katan stared at Djarin.

Djarin didn't put his arm down.

Cinder prepared to defend Djarin.

Gideon smiled at the silent confrontation.

*THUD*

The bridge began to shake as something hit the ship. Everyone lost their balance and a few people fell. Koska immediately put a finger on her helmet. "What are you people doing?!" she yelled. "We have the ship under control, hold your fire!"

"Ma'am, we haven't fired anything!" a soldier on the other line said.

"Then what just hit us?" Bo-Katan asked.

Something else just hit the ship and now everyone fell over. An alarm began to sound. Koska ran to a flashing computer where a phrase kept appearing on the screen.

WARNING: UNDERWATER ACTIVITY DETECTED

"You're about to face one of the largest Grimm known to man," said Gideon, who was smirking at everyone, his eyes landed on Djarin's pauldron. "The Rinocer is an impressive kill. But let's see how you do against a Leviathan."

Just as he said that, the ocean in front of the ship erupted, revealing a large, aquatic Grimm. Letting out a loud roar, the Leviathan began its attack.

"Our coordinates match the location of the ship. Do we have a visual?"

"Sir, we received confirmation the ship is no longer under control of the insurrection."

"Excellent. Prepare a boarding party."

"...Sir, we have a visual on the ship. But it's being attacked by a Leviathan."

The captain of the Atlesian airship walked over to the window to see Gideon's ship being attacked by a Leviathan.

"Dear God," the captain said under his breath. He quickly turned back to his crew. "These coordinates put that Grimm dangerously close to Argus. Prepare our weapons and aim them at the Leviathan."

"Sir, one of the ships that arrived before us already tried that," said one of the officers. "The Leviathan almost killed them with a blast from its throat."

The communications officer spoke up. "Captain, we're receiving an order from the fleet's Admiral. He wants us to redirect our fire on the Bismarck."

"Is he mad?" the captain asked. "Gideon's still on that ship, and so are the allies we sent earlier."

"He's aware," the officer responded. "And with all due respect, the Admiral made a point. The Leviathan has its current attention on the Bismarck. It'll be destroyed for sure. So if we destroy it first, the resulting explosion will take the Leviathan with it."

"...Alright. Do what he says."

"Yes, sir. We'll be ready in..." The officer's attention was drawn from the weapons system to a small airship flying towards the Leviathan. From the ship's identification, it seemed to be coming from Argus. "Sir, I'm seeing what looks like a Manta coming from Argus. It's heading towards the Bismarck."

"What?" The captain immediately walked over to the monitor and saw the same sight as the officer. "Establish contact."

"Yes, sir." The officer pressed a button on his computer. "Incoming craft, identify yourself."

"I'm a Huntress," a female voice responded. "I can weaken the Leviathan for you to attack."

"Ma'am, we've been ordered to destroy the ship the Leviathan is attacking. If you go in, you won't receive any support."

"I understand. I'll be one minute."

The communication cut out and the Manta moved closer to the ship, circling the Leviathan.

"We can't wait any longer," said the captain. "Are the ship's weapons ready?"

"Yes sir," said another officer. "We'll be ready to fire in three, two-WHOA!"

A blinding light found its way into the ship, catching every officer inside the bridge by complete surprise. It left as quickly as it came.

"What... was that?" the captain asked.

"Sir... I think you'll wanna see this," said an officer in front of the window. The captain walked over to the officer and looked out the window. His jaw dropped when he saw the Leviathan. Only, it wasn't the Grimm that bothered him.

It was the fact the Grimm had been turned to stone.

"Sir... what just happened?"

"I think... I think someone up there likes us," the captain said as he stared up into the clouds.

The communications officer looked back to the captain. "Sir, we're receiving new orders from the Admiral! He wants us to fire on the Leviathan!"

The captain looked over his crew, who were all dumbfounded by the phenomenon that just transpired.

"Are we deaf?! Fire all our weapons on the Leviathan! NOW!"

Everyone looked back to their terminals, complying with the captain's orders. Once their weapons, and those of their fellow ships, were activated, the Leviathan turned to dust.

"What the hell was that?"

"The Grimm, it's... gone."

Everyone inside the bridge of the Bismarck looked outside to see the Leviathan be reduced to dust. The sight caught everyone off guard, but Cinder was the first to smile at the miracle that saved them all.

Major Gideon was the first one to feel fear.

He believed the Levithan would kill everyone on the ship except for him, for he knew Salem could make it so. But once his last hope was destroyed before his eyes, the reality of the situation came crashing down on him.

But that didn't mean he wouldn't go down without a fight. He had picked up a gun when he was on the ground, and now he was ready to put it to use.

First, he pointed the weapon at Bo-Katan and fired. The shots caught her off guard, but her armor protected her from the attack.

So Gideon went for the next best thing. If he couldn't have the Fall Maiden... nobody could.

Cinder was knocked to the ground from the Grimm's attack on the ship, and she was looking up at Gideon's weapon.

As soon as he pulled the trigger, Gideon watched as the Mandalorian dived in the way, his armor protecting him and Cinder. The last bullet he fired found its way through Djarin's arm, his Aura had broken from his duel. He grunted in pain as it went through.

Everyone in the ship, Huntress and Mandalorian, watched as Gideon placed the gun under his chin, preparing to end it all.

A Vizsla Mandalorian stopped him by sending a punch to Gideon's face, knocking him unconscious. As he watched the Major fall to the ground, the freed Mandalorian turned to his brothers and sisters. "Aid our Mand'alor," he ordered.

Bo-Katan silently fumed in anger as the Mandalorians walked over to Djarin and helped him stand. She had come so close to victory, yet now she had been pushed past the brink of defeat.

"I'm alright," said Djarin, who got off the ground. "Is Cinder-?"

"I'm okay," she answered. "Thanks to you."

A group of Mantas arrived at the Bismarck, escorting the detained Saxon Mandalorians and the remaining insurrectionists off the ship.

Djarin carried Cinder inside a Manta alone. He continued to hold the young girl close to him, not caring about the pain in his arm. Once the ship took to the air, she sat down as they made their way to Argus.

"Did we do it?" Cinder asked as she looked back at the giant airship.

"We did," Djarin replied, following her gaze. "Watts, Gideon, the insurrection..." Djarin turned back to the young girl. "It's finished."

Cinder looked back to him and smiled. "It's finished," she repeated. Her smile vanished as she looked behind the Mandalorian. Djarin saw the change in her attitude and turned around as well. Sitting behind them was a figure in a hooded white cloak. The figure stood up and removed the hood, revealing a woman with black hair that ended with red tips, and large silver eyes staring at them.

Cinder moved behind Djarin as he readied himself for another fight. But he had a feeling that wasn't going to happen. Looking into the woman's eyes gave him a strange sense of calmness, that no harm would come to any person in her way. "Are you a Huntress?" he asked for reassurance.

"I am," the woman replied with a smile. She took out her Scroll and showed the duo her Huntress license. "I was called in to help."

Name: Rose, Summer

Place of Issue: Vale

Authority: Beacon Academy

The last phrase stuck out to Djarin. Beacon Academy was the place Hera told him to find Ozma. Or rather, Ozpin. Looking back at Cinder, then back at Summer, Djarin spoke again. "That school. That's where she needs to go." He pointed back at the license.

Summer looked back at the place of authority and wondered why a child of all people had to go to Beacon. Maybe it had something to do with why she was called here.

"Mystery after mystery," Summer told herself as she put away her Scroll. She didn't bother asking why the child needed to go to a Huntsmen Academy. Smiling and extending her hand, Summer spoke to Cinder instead. "If that's the case, you can come with me," she kindly offered.

Cinder didn't move, she stayed right behind the Mandalorian. "She... doesn't want to go with you," said Djarin.

Summer lowered her hand and looked back at the Mandalorian. "She really trusts you," she said.

"...Always," Cinder whispered.

"I don't know much of your kind... but I know a fight is never far behind you," Summer said to the Mandalorian. "I would give my life to protect her, if she decided to let me take her to Beacon. If I let her go with you... can you promise me you'd do the same?"

Djarin showed the Huntress his bleeding arm. "If it means she'll be safe, I'm not afraid to die."

"He's risked his life for me before," Cinder spoke up. "I'll be okay."

Summer smiled at the young girl. "You'll be safe at Beacon," she said before she looked back at the Mandalorian. "Good luck."

The airship landed and Summer walked away. Djarin and Cinder walked out the other side, towards the Atlesian base to get some well needed rest.

Author's notes: hey everyone. Hope you're all doing good and you enjoyed the chapter. So I think you could consider this chapter being the last one that follows the retold story of The Mandalorian. Everything else from here on out will be original. So I hope you enjoyed this, please let me know what you think, and have a great rest of your day!

TheCourtofTalons · Jun 27, 2023

Chapter 20: Family

"Okay... I got the bullet out, and I sealed your wounds. Just be careful moving your arm."

"Thank you."

Djarin had just come out of the medical room of the Argus base. The bullet Gideon had shot at him formed an exit wound in the Mandalorian's arm, so it wasn't very serious. But that didn't stop Cinder from being worried sick about him. And from thinking about where their quest had brought them. Especially her kidnapping and Djarin's injury.

As soon as Djarin stepped out the medical room, the young girl ran up to him. He kneeled down immediately and pulled her into a hug. "Are you okay?" Cinder quickly asked.

"I'm fine," Djarin replied honestly. He let go of Cinder and looked her over, unable to see any physical wounds. "What about you? Did Gideon hurt you?"

"I'll be alright. They didn't try to do what Watts did to me."

Djarin sighed in relief. "Good." He put a hand on her cheek. "Cinder... I-"

"It's okay." Cinder had a feeling what he was going to say, and she already knew how sorry the Mandalorian was for what happened. "They were going to catch up sometime."

"I shouldn't have left you in the ship. You could have been killed, and I-"

"I know." Cinder looked down. "We... We got lucky. I'm sorry I worried you."

"Don't be. I'm just glad I found you."

Cinder looked up again. "Right, about that. How did you find me? How did you send that message?"

Djarin looked around and saw multiple Atlesian soldiers walking up and down the hall they were in. Taking Cinder's hand, he led her to the first empty room he could find. Closing the door and making sure there were no security cameras, Djarin pulled up an empty chair and explained himself. Cinder stood in front of him, giving her undivided attention. "I went to the Branwen tribe, to see if their Maiden could help us," he said. "And she did. I was able to find out more about the Maiden powers."

Cinder's eyes widened. "You were?" Djarin nodded. Cinder began to smile in excitement, curious as to what he learned. "That's great! What did you find out?"

"Well, the powers aren't just for fighting or defending yourself. They act like some kind of key."

"A key to what?"

"Do you know about the Huntsmen Academies? The ones in each kingdom?"

"I only know their names. There's Beacon, Shade, Haven, and Atlas Academy." She chuckled to herself after saying the last one. "The last one's really original, huh?"

Djarin gave a short laugh at the name as well. And he was glad to hear Cinder's ordeal didn't make her lose her sense of humor. "Well, here's the thing. Apparently, under each academy, there's some kind of large door."

"How large?"

"Bigger than all four walls here combined." Cinder looked around the room, making a mental image of what Djarin was describing. "And on the other side, there are these... Relics."

"Relics?" Cinder smiled in excitement again. "Wait, you mean like treasure?"

"Not exactly. Apparently, these Relics have some kind of power they give to people. The one I found was called the Relic of Knowledge."

"What does it do?"

"It can answer three questions every one hundred years. I asked it where you were, and that was the second question."

"Oh, so that's how you found me."

"...Right." Djarin slightly looked away. "That's... how I did it."

Unfortunately, Cinder was able to see he was unhappy about something. "What's wrong?"

"The Relic gave me my answer...but not in the way I wanted."

Cinder's concern turned to confusion in an instant. "What do you mean?"

"There's something else I need to apologize for, Cinder." Djarin gently took her hand. "Before finding out where you were... the Relic made me watch that Faunus hurt you."

Cinder put a hand on her cheek, remembering what Aurora did to her. "But, does that mean-?"

"I saw her. I... saw Salem." Djarin held her hand tighter. "I tried to stop them from doing anything else, I tried to make Salem stop lying to you. But whenever I touched that Faunus and that Grimm, they turned to smoke. It was like I was with you... but I wasn't."

Cinder remembered how scared and alone she felt when she met Salem, and it caused a tear to fall down her cheek. "Mando..."

"I was right there, I was in that room with you. But whatever I tried, I couldn't do anything." Cinder couldn't see it, but Djarin was holding back tears. "I... I'm sorry," he choked out. "I-"

Cinder wiped her tear away and pressed her forehead against the top of the Mandalorian's helmet. "It's okay."

The Mandalorian still hated himself for not being able to do anything when he saw Salem. So, he made a promise to secure both their futures. "If we see her again... you won't be alone. I'll be with you."

Djarin had his eyes closed when he made his promise, so he didn't see Cinder slightly look away. "...Right," she whispered. "You'll... You'll be with me."

"Why are we still here? I don't like these Atlesians giving us the evil eye."

"I just need to talk to our new Mand'alor."

"What, that helmet-lover? You can't be serious."

"Bo-Katan had the right idea when she left. I wouldn't follow him, either."

"Are you two kidding me right now? He freed us from that pretender."

"She's right. Show him some more gratitude."

Hearing the constant bickering made Pax Vizsla feel sick. He knew most of Clan Vizsla believed they should have the Darksaber, but he didn't share their entire view. He was just happy the Darksaber was back in the hands of a Mandalorian, and that Mandalorian held no allegiance to Gideon or Saxon. He was about to tell the members of his clan to stop arguing, but stopped himself when he saw Djarin and Cinder come out of the main Atlesian complex. He walked over to them and removed his helmet.

Djarin looked at the Mandalorian and asked him a question. "Are you their leader?"

"Yes," Pax replied. "I am Pax of Clan Vizsla."

Djarin didn't introduce himself, he instead looked down to Cinder. She nodded and he looked back at Pax. "She told me you were helping Gideon."

"...Not by choice. Gideon wielded the Darksaber when he found our clan. We were bound by our honor to serve whoever held it."

"You could have challenged him."

"We did. Gideon... killed our last leader." Pax immediately kneeled before Djarin. "He forced us to take the child from you. I told my people to follow his orders, and I take responsibility for their actions." Pax lowered his head. "I thank you for freeing us, but I understand if you share any animosity with me."

Djarin was upset to see that this man was apparently responsible for taking Cinder from him. And now he was considering letting this Mandalorian know how furious he was about what he allowed to happen. He was just about to... but Cinder placing a hand on Vizsla's head stopped him.

"I... understand," she said. "But you're free now." Cinder looked up at Djarin. "Djarin freed me too, once upon a time."

Djarin nodded and extended his hand to the Mandalorian. He took it and stood up. "Some of my clan isn't happy with... how things turned out. But as the Mand'alor, you have my full support."

Djarin looked down at the sword on his belt, his previous thoughts on the Bismarck returning. "I don't-"

"I disagree. For once, Gideon was honest when he spoke to you." He pointed at the hilt. "The Darksaber belongs to you now."

"I'm just a warrior. I'm no ruler."

"You have potential... Djarin, is it?" Djarin nodded. "If what the child said is true, you represent one of the ideals Mandalore was founded on: freedom."

"..."

Djarin remembered what he had done ever since he met Cinder. Not only did he free her, but he was able to free Clan Wren, Clan Eldar, and now, Clan Vizsla. Mandalore was founded on the idea of being free from any kingdom's rule, so Pax had a point. And judging by Cinder's smile, she had the same idea.

But Vizsla wasn't done yet. "You can lead our clan, lead any other clan once they hear what you've done," he claimed.

Djarin immediately took Cinder's hand when he heard this. "I have more pressing matters at hand." He felt proud to be with the child right now, he didn't care if being by her side meant holding off plans for Mandalore. Cinder, on the other hand, looked down when Djarin said this, feeling somewhat uncomfortable.

"I understand." Pax extended his hand. "Whatever you decide to do, know that Clan Vizsla is with you should the need ever arise."

Djarin shook his hand. "Where can I find you?"

Pax pointed to the red branch on his helmet. "The Forever Fall. We scatter ourselves across the forest, but we will reconvene should you come." With that, Pax joined his people and they all took to the air.

"We should get going too," Cinder said to Djarin.

"We will," he agreed. "I just need another minute." He began walking towards the Slave I, where Boba, Fennec, and the Happy Huntresses were waiting outside.

Robyn walked up to them with everyone else behind her. "Alright!" she said with enthusiasm. "The pipsqueak's back!" Cinder formed a scowl, annoyed at her new... nickname.

"Don't take it personally," said Boba, who was the first to notice her annoyance. "Robyn's like that with everyone. And she gets... happy... after finishing a mission."

Robyn punched Boba's arm in response. "Well, we are the Happy Huntresses, Shamrock."

Boba's mask hid his eyes rolling in annoyance. "See what I mean, kid?"

Cinder giggled and looked up at Djarin. "I'm only gone a few hours and you make yourself some new friends?" she asked.

Djarin chuckled and rubbed her head. "Well, I needed all the help I could get." He looked back to Boba. "Besides, we had a deal."

"Now, it's done." Boba extended his hand and the Mandalorian shook it. "Take care of the child."

"I will." Djarin looked back at the group. "What about the rest of you?"

"Once we hand the Major over to Ironwood, we got a few missions in Mantle with our names on them," said Fiona.

"No rest for the weary," Joanna said as she moved back to the ship.

"You need a lift before we go?" May asked.

Djarin shook his head. "We'll be fine. You go on your way." With that, the group of Huntresses and bounty hunters went back to the ship. It took off and flew beyond the ocean. Djarin looked down to Cinder. "You ready?"

"I'm ready," Cinder confirmed. "Wait. Earlier, when we met that Huntress, where did you say I needed to go?"

Djarin gasped at her question. "I almost forgot," he said. Looking around to make sure nobody was watching, the Mandalorian kneeled down to Cinder. "I know where to find Ozma."

Cinder gasped as well. Her shock at the news immediately turned to hope. "I don't have to run now," she said.

"Never again." Djarin smiled as he made the promise. It was one he would keep this time. No more running, no more watching over their shoulders. They could start all over again, and Djarin was actually excited to see where this went. "We need to go to Beacon Academy. The man we're looking for is Professor Ozpin."

"Then let's go!" Cinder looked around the base. "Where's the Razor Crest?"

"It's-"

Djarin forgot about his ship. He couldn't take it to Beacon, but he could see how progress on its reconstruction was going. "It's... still in Nevarro." He stood up and extended his hand. "Cinder, would it be alright if we go to Nevarro first? We won't be there long."

"Oh... sure." Cinder took his hand. "Why didn't you bring the ship here?" Before the Mandalorian answered, Cinder reached behind her back and pulled out one of her weapons. "And what happened to my swords?"

"It's... a long story."

The duo vanished.

"THEY DESTROYED IT?!"

"...They did."

Cinder and Djarin had returned to Nevarro, where they were watching a group of engineers Karga hired and a few Mandalorians working on the Razor Crest. They made progress, but it would still take a while before the airship could come off the ground.

Djarin was happy to see that his home would be fixable, but he was worried how Cinder would take it. She came across a few prized possessions in the ship, and Djarin was only able to save her swords and book. He had heard the phrase 'Things can be replaced, lives can't be', but the things Cinder kept were irreplaceable.

But he made sure to let her know how sorry he was by returning her book to her. "I was able to save this," he said. "I'm sorry I couldn't save anything else."

Cinder slowly took the book and flipped through it. Thankfully, none of the pages seemed to be burnt. She began to blink back tears, but smiled a genuine smile. "I never thought I'd see this again," she said. It was one of the first gifts Djarin had given her, so she was going to make sure she wouldn't lose it again. "Thank you."

"You're welcome." Djarin rubbed her head and smiled under his helmet.

"Din Djarin."

The duo turned around to see the Armorer approaching them with Sun Jabbid. "You have returned," she said.

"Yes," said Djarin. He immediately got down on one knee, Cinder looked at him in surprise. "Not only with the child, but with an apology. I learned that Ozma and Salem indeed exist. And I was wrong to accuse you of any deceit. I'm sorry."

The Armorer was surprised to hear this. After Djarin's earlier confrontation, even she was having doubts about the quest's certainty. But with her questions set aside and with an apologetic Mandalorian, she simply placed a hand on Djarin's helmet. "You are forgiven. Stand." Djarin stood up, but Cinder immediately kneeled as well.

"I'm sorry too," the young girl said. "I was the one who told Djarin about the book, I led him back to Nevarro. I... didn't think all of this would happen. I'm... I'm sorry."

The Armorer placed a hand on Cinder's head as well. "I understand," she confessed. "Do not be ashamed. Stand." Cinder stood up and smiled. The Armorer turned back to Djairn. "Will you continue in your quest?"

"Yes," he replied. "Not only that, I am prepared to finish it before the sun sets. I learned I can find Ozma at Beacon Academy."

"Then you will return to Nevarro?"

"...No." Djarin looked down to Cinder. "Wherever she goes... I go."

Cinder's eyes widened at the display of loyalty. Not only that, the Mandalorian said he would go wherever she went, not the other way around. He always used to say that phrase the other way around. He really meant it. And the idea... repulsed her. "Mando, no." Cinder backed away. "You should stay here."

Djarin was taken off guard by her response. "Cinder I... I wantto go with you. I-"

"Ah! Mando!"

Everyone turned to see Karga and Cara walking towards them, both with wide smiles. "You're here! And you found the little one!"

"Hey kid," Cara said, pulling Cinder into a hug. "Good to see you're still in one piece."

"I'm happy to see you too," said Cinder. She looked back to the Mandalorian. "Is it alright if we talk before leaving?"

"...Sure," he said, still concerned about what Cinder said earlier.

"I will join you," said the Armorer. She turned to Karga. "I completed the plans you requested for the Razor Crest'sredesign. We will examine them together."

"Wonderful!" said Karga. They all walked towards a building, leaving Djarin alone with his oldest friend.

"You were faster than I expected," Sun admitted.

"I had the right motivation," Djarin confessed honestly. "She's... very special."

"I know. Have you thought about what I told you?"

"I have. And I decided what to do. The kind of father I want to be... is whatever she needs and wants me to be."

"...I don't think she would have it any other way. Did you perform the ritual yet?"

"I'm going to ask her. Today." Djarin suddenly remembered what Cinder said before she left. That caused his previous doubts from Mistral to return. "I'm... not sure what she'll say, though."

"Good luck to you, then." Sun began to walk away, but Djarin stopped him.

"Before you go... there's something I need to talk to you about," said Djarin. "Cinder... wasn't the only thing I returned with."

"Yes, I heard you mention the Major when you came to the city," said Sun. "You should be proud of what you accomplished."

"That's not what I'm talking about." Djarin reached to his belt and pulled out a handle.

"Beskar? It looks too small to craft into a weapon. If you give it to the Armorer, maybe she could-" Sun stopped talking when Djarin pressed a button on the handle. His jaw dropped at the sight of a black blade. "It... It can't be..."

"It is. I found the Darksaber."

"Turn it off!" Sun grabbed Djarin's arm as the blade disappeared. He looked around the area to see if anyone else saw the Darksaber. But nobody was paying attention. So, Sun turned back to Djarin. "How did you find it?"

"Gideon was its former wielder. He threatened to kill Cinder with it... so I stopped him."

"You... You won it from him in combat?"

"I did. He attacked me, but I won the duel."

"Din... that means-"

"Yes. I'm the Mand'alor."

A million thoughts ran through Sun's head, but he wasn't able to put any of them into words. But Djarin's mind was clear, and his next words came naturally to him. "But I shouldn't be."

"What do you mean? You won the saber, it's yours."

"It wasn't supposed to be. I made a deal with Bo-Katan Kryze, she demanded that she be the one to defeat Gideon. But it was me." He looked back at the saber in his hand. "I want to pass it to someone else. The Armorer has led us through thick and thin, she would be the best match."

"She wouldn't accept it." Djarin looked back to his friend. "When the first Children of the Watch separated themselves from Mandalore, they left most of our culture behind. Everything except the Way."

"I know."

"That most likely means we separated ourselves from the Darksaber. If she were to take it, nothing would change. She would still have us stay hidden, watching the rest of Remnant."

"...You're right."

"Do any other Mandalorians see you as their leader?"

"Clan Vizsla swore their allegiance to me. Clan Kryze... or what's left of it... may want to take it from me."

"I see. But given the chance, what would you do with the power you've been given?"

"Nothing... yet." Djarin turned back to Cinder, who was smiling and laughing with Karga and Cara. "I have more pressing matters at hand. But these are something I'd be... more than proud to take on."

"And the saber?"

"It was suggested that I lead the other clans. But instead, I'm going to find each one. One way or another... I'll find someone worthy to take it."

"In that time... I would suggest you be worthy of it yourself." Djarin turned back to Sun. "Your plan is simple, but suppose you can't find someone worthy. Instead, you may find Mandalorians who only want to control our people. If it comes to that... I trust you to wield it. Others will do the same in time."

"...Thank you."

Sun nodded and began to walk away.

"And thank you for your earlier advice."

Sun turned back. "Of course. Come to me anytime. Think of it as recompense for staying behind while you searched for Cinder."

Normally, Djarin would show his gratitude to his friend's loyalty. But in that moment, he showed only one thing: confusion. "...What do you mean?" Djarin asked.

"I had the chance to go with you, but I decided my efforts would be better spent rebuilding Nevarro," Sun replied.

"...You were here the whole time?"

"I was."

"But... what about that Grimm? The one you...?"

"What Grimm? What are you talking about?"

"..."

Djarin had seen the Leviathan from Argus be petrified and turned to stone before Gideon shot him. Everyone on the ship was taken by surprise by the phenomenon. But Djarin wasn't as surprised. The thing was... he had seen that power before.

"Din? Is something wrong?"

His friend's voice snapped Djarin back to reality. "No, nothing. I'm sorry, I was... thinking of something else."

"...Alright, then."

Sun walked away, leaving Djarin to return to Cinder. But when he followed the path she took, he only found the Armorer, Karga, and Cara talking.

"Ah, there you are my friend," Karga said with much enthusiasm. Djarin knew he rarely talked in that tone of voice unless he was excited about something. So whatever he wanted to talk about was big news. "I was just going over the plans the Armorer made for your new ship."

"...I thought you could fix the old one," said Djarin.

"I could. But Marshal Dune here convinced us to make some... improvements."

Djarin turned to Cara. "Oh, did she?"

Cara smiled. "If there's one thing I learned from Atlas, it's that when something works... it doesn't mean it can't be improved," she said. "Now, I'm no engineer, but I can be creative when I wanna be."

Taking out her Scroll, Cara showed Djarin a set of blueprints. The Scroll showed him a much larger airship. Two large engines rested on the wings, which had the potential to make the ship travel faster than before. The size was much larger than the Manta version, with two small guns on the front. It also had a larger cargo hold, with a door on the side.

"Impressive," said Djarin. "You came up with all of this yourself?"

"Well... mostly the weapons," Cara replied honestly. When the final product was finished, she knew they would pack a punch. "Karga knows some people who can help get this ready in a week."

"I know a good mechanic in Atlas who can help... if you pay her the right price." Djarin hadn't seen Peli since she last worked on the ship. He remembered that day was also the first day he met Cinder.

Just the thought of her name made Djarin remember she wasn't with them. "Is Cinder here?"

"She went inside one of the empty houses," Karga said as he pointed to a small house. "Mando... is she alright? She seemed kinda sad before she left."

"I'm wondering the same thing. What did you talk about?"

"Nothing really, just how you two were going to blow this 'Ozma' fella away when he sees what you two can do."

"She might be nervous about meeting him. I'll go talk to her." Djarin walked to the building where Karga said he saw Cinder. He found her sitting on a swivel chair reading her book. "Cinder?" he called to her. She looked back at him with a somber expression. "Are you okay?"

"I'm fine," Cinder replied. "I just... Can we talk? Before going anywhere?"

Djarin moved a chair from the wall and placed it in front of her. Sitting down, he spoke again. "If you're nervous about meeting Ozma, don't worry. I'll be right beside you."

Cinder took a deep breath, her eyes staring at the floor. "Mando... you don't have to be."

"Cinder, it's fine. We'll go in together and-"

She quickly looked back up. "I don't think we should be together anymore."

Djarin's heart skipped a beat. "What? What do you mean?"

Cinder sighed and ran a hand through her hair. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to say it like that." She looked back at the Mandalorian. "Mando, do you remember the party back in Mistral? When you said you wanted to ask me something?" Djarin nodded. "You seemed... really nervous before asking. It took me a while, but I understand why you were like that." She put her hand on his. "So if you feel you're ready to leave... I think that would be for the best."

Djarin's eyes widened under his helmet. He had no idea that the way he asked her before gave off that impression. "Wait, you think-? Cinder, I don't-"

"It's okay," she said with a soft smile. "I had a lot of time to think when we were at Argus. And I came to realize that... I've been selfish, all this time we've been together." She squeezed Djarin's hand. "You've... literally done everything you could to keep me safe, and I really appreciate that. You risked your life for me more times than I can count, and... I never returned the favor." A tear fell down her cheek. "All I've done on our quest was waste your time and get you hurt, and all I can do right now is say that I'm sorry."

"What?" Djarin used his cape to dry the child's eye. "Cinder, that's not true."

"Yes, it is!" Cinder jumped off her seat and continued to cry. "Because of me, you almost got killed by Karga, Saxon, Gideon, and just about every mercenary or bounty hunter on Remnant! Not only that, but now you lost your ship! And for what?! Just to find a little girl you met by accident some place to call 'home?!'" She sat down again, but turned her chair away from Djarin. "No. No more. If I'm supposed to be a Maiden, then I need to look out for other people, not the other way around. So if us going our separate ways means I won't be getting you hurt anymore, then it's the right call."

"..."

At first, Djarin's heart merely skipped one beat at the beginning of the conversation. Now, it felt like it had just been shattered into a million pieces. Cinder honestly believed she had been causing him grief and pain just by being with him, but he thought the complete opposite. And he partially blamed himself for waiting so long and acting so nervous to ask Cinder his realquestion. But now, Djarin knew he couldn't falter. He would get the answer he sought, but now he needed to tell Cinder how he felt.

"When one chooses to walk the Way of the Mandalore... you are both hunter and prey," Djarin restated the Armorer's words from long ago. Cinder slightly moved her head, not looking at him, but to show she was listening. "That's how I've lived for years, even before meeting you. Every day, I chose to risk my life hunting bounties, fighting for various reasons, and proving my strength to the Mandalorians." He put a hand on Cinder's shoulder. "You can't blame yourself for doing what I do best, Cinder. There are times when my enemy is stronger, even times when I get hurt. But I do what I do because it's who I am. And now, everything I've done in the past few weeks... I've been proud to do it all for you."

Cinder turned around this time, her eyes still wet from tears. She dried them and spoke again. "But... I'm nobody special. I'm just a kid you met by accident."

"...I never expected to meet you, you're right." Djarin took her hands in his. "But I don't think you're just a 'nobody.'"

"Mando, you don't understand. Without you... I am nothing."

Djarin's heart broke again, but that didn't shake his resolve. "That is not true. You're the smartest child I've ever met, just as strong as any other Foundling, and above all else, you're a brave, loyal friend." This time, Djarin stood up and pointed at Cinder. "You help your friends without a second thought, you come fight for my safety rather than your own, and that's what I lo-" Djarin stopped himself, the words about to come out were foreign to him. Cinder's jaw dropped and her eyes widened. Djarin quickly regained his train of thought. "That's why I don't want to leave you. That would be the last thing I would want to ask you."

"...Oh."

Cinder felt like she had just made a complete fool of herself. And she had just been proven wrong by someone she knew was telling the whole truth. A part of her felt better, knowing that she wasn't just a waste of his time. But there was one thing on her mind, something she still didn't understand. "So... what, then?" she asked. "What did you want to ask me?"

Djarin moved his chair back and kneeled down to the young girl. "Cinder, I still want us to be together, even after we find Ozma. But, I don't want us to just be partners." He took her hand in his. "I want us... to be family."

The child's eyes widened again. "Fa... Family?" This was a word Cinder abandoned long ago, she always believed she would never have one when she was a slave at the Glass Unicorn. But now, she was beginning to feel a strange sense of hope. She needed to know more. "What do you mean?" she asked.

"The Mandalorians have a ritual called the Gai Bal Manda," said Djarin. "You might have seen it in your book, but it's easy to miss. The Gai Bal Manda, it's... it's an adoption ritual. One that dates back to the ancient times of Mandalore, one that... I want to do with you." Djarin gently squeezed Cinder's hand. "I can be your father, Cinder. My question is... would you like that?"

Cinder couldn't see it, but Djarin was incredibly scared about asking that question. He was sweating, and his chest felt as hard as his armor. He believed she had a million reasons to reject his offer, and Djarin was expecting her to do so. He was expecting answers involving Ozma or that she wasn't ready to have a father.

Instead, Djarin received the last thing he expected; a tight hug around his neck and tears of joy.

"Yes!" Cinder quickly responded. "Of course! Yes, yes, yes!"

Djarin was taken off guard by the tight embrace and her fast answer. "Cinder," he choked out. "Are... Are you-"

"Yes, I'm sure!" she finished for him. Cinder let him go and stared into his visor with a wide smile, forgetting her wish for him to leave for his own safety. "If this is something you want to do, then I'd love nothing more than to be your daughter."

Djarin smiled under his helmet, all of his doubts and fears had been replaced with joy. "In that case... I can do it right now. Are you ready?"

Cinder's excitement was quickly replaced with anxiety. "Wait, you mean right now? But... what do you need? What do we do? What if-?"

Djarin simply chuckled and took Cinder's hand. "Cinder, it's alright. All I need to do is say a simple phrase in Mando'a. Once I do, as far as anyone else is concerned, I'm your father. So, are you ready?"

Cinder quickly reached for her neck and pulled out her Beskar necklace. Holding the symbol in her palm as a sign of reassurance, Cinder took a deep breath. "Okay, I'm ready." She closed her eyes and smiled.

Djarin smiled too. "Alright. Here we go."

Cinder waited.

And waited.

And waited.

But she didn't hear anything.

Opening her eyes, she saw the Mandalorian was staring off to the side. She became worried. "Mando? Is something wrong?"

Djarin quickly looked back to her. "Everything's fine," he replied honestly. "I just... need to do one more thing." Suddenly, the Mandalorian placed his hands on his helmet, and began to lift it up.

Cinder was taken by surprise once again. "Mando, what are you doing?" she asked.

"This, Cinder... is how much I want to be your father." He continued to lift up his helmet.

Cinder gasped and quickly moved her hands up to the Mandalorian's arms. "Mando, you don't have to do this!"

"Yes, I do." He removed his hands and kneeled down to the child. "My father always said 'Actions speak louder than words.' I need you to know how much the ritual will mean to me, that I won't be adopting you out of some need or use you like you previous guardian did. I'm adopting you because... I love you."

"..."

Love.

Djarin rarely used that word. He hadn't felt like he truly loved anything or anyone in a very long time. But after what happened earlier, how determined he was to find Cinder, he knew it wasn't out of a need to complete his quest. He knew, deep down, everything he did was out of love for the little girl.

The word made Cinder's heart skip a beat. She felt warm inside, a smile came naturally to her face. Now, after ten long years of pain and sorrow, Cinder finally knew what it meant to be loved by someone.

And she could finally admit that it felt wonderful.

But there was one more thing on her mind. "But... it's not the Way," she remembered. "You said you wouldn't be able to wear your armor anymore."

"I did. But I don't care anymore. I care..." Djarin put his hand on her cheek. "All I care about is you." Cinder smiled again, his words bringing all the joy in the world to her. "Besides, we're our own clan. I think we can make our own rules." Giggling at the joke, Cinder nodded, giving her approval.

And with that, Djarin placed his hands back on his head... and removed the helmet.

Cinder was staring at a man with dark brown eyes, messy brown hair, and a moustache with a very thin beard starting to grow. After a few seconds, Cinder smiled and placed her hand on his cheek. Djarin closed his eyes for a moment, embracing the touch. He opened them once she removed it. Another question popped into his head. "So... what do you think?" he awkwardly asked.

"Well... a shave would look good," Cinder jokingly replied. Djarin chuckled for a moment before she spoke again. "But, in all seriousness..." Cinder placed a kiss on his cheek. "Thank you, Mando. For everything."

"...You're welcome."

Djarin smiled, stood back up, and put his helmet back on. "You ready?" he asked. Cinder took her necklace again and nodded. With that, Djarin recited a phrase he should have recited a long time ago. "Ni kar'tayl gai sa'ad, Cinder." (I know your name as my child, Cinder). The young girl understood the words, which caused her to embrace Djarin in another hug, one which he eagerly returned. But rather than just holding her, Djarin picked Cinder off her feet and carried her outside.

At the doorsteps, he found the Armorer waiting for him. He stopped moving as a wave of fear ran through his body and questions filled his mind. How long had she been standing there? Did she see his face? Would she... ask for his armor back?

Cinder moved her head to see the Armorer as well. She asked herself the same questions... but didn't share her father's fears. She held him tightly and spoke her mind. "Removing it didn't change anything," she said.

"..."

"He may not have been born on Mandalore... but he did a lot to show that he'll always be one of your kind."

"..."

"With or without his armor."

"..."

Djarin held Cinder even tighter, admiring not only her loyalty, but her bravery. There were times when he felt like an ant in her presence, and now was one of those times. The only time Djarin ever had the strength to speak out against his clan leader was when he thought she lied to them. But now, all he could focus on was the fear of losing his armor. She had every right to take it from him.

After what felt like an eternity, the Armorer spoke. "...You are a clan of two," she said. "Your way is your own. Farewell." She walked away, leaving a dumbfounded Djarin and a relieved Cinder.

Normally, the Armorer wasn't very forgiving of breaking the Creed. But she couldn't deny the loophole that Djarin and Cinder found with being their own clan.

"Oh, thank God," Cinder said. "I thought she was gonna kill us."

"And here I thought I was the only one who was scared," Djarin joked. The two shared a short laugh, and Djarin pressed his forehead against Cinder's when it died down. "What would I do without you?"

Cinder held the Mandalorian's helmet. "...I've asked myself the same thing more times than I can count."

"Aww, you do have a soft side."

The duo turned to see a laughing Cara and a smiling Karga. Djarin gently put Cinder down before speaking. "Only with the people I like," he jokingly retorted.

Cara put a hand on her heart and mocked a gasp. "You have such a way with women."

Karga joined in with her laughter, but was quick to get back to business. "Come back in a week," he said to the Mandalorian. "We'll have the new ship ready for you."

"What do I owe you?"

"Let's call it even for watching my back with Gideon and his crazy Mandos."

"Thank you." Djarin turned to Cara. "Both of you."

"Anytime, my friend." Karga extended his hand, which Djarin shook.

Cara shook his hand next and asked a question. "So, you know where to go?"

"I do," Djarin replied. He looked down to Cinder, who looked up at him and smiled. "We'll be there soon."

"What then?"

Djarin didn't take his eyes off his new daughter. "Wherever she goes, I go."

"Well, good luck to you," said Karga. He kneeled down to Cinder. "And good luck to you, little one." He shared a hug with Cinder while Cara rubbed her head. Cinder smiled as the two backed away. She looked up to the Mandalorian.

"You ready?" he asked.

"When you are," she answered.

Cinder took one last glance at Karga and Cara, then watched them disappear. Once her sight readjusted, she was staring at a sight to behold. In front of the wide avenue they were standing on was a set of tall towers and buildings. In front of those towers and on the sides of the avenue was a wide set of aqueduct-like features and archways.

But Cinder's eyes were glued to each pointed tower, specifically the tallest one. Djarin's eyes landed on it as well, even he had to admit Beacon Tower was breathtaking.

When he first learned this was where he would find Ozma, the Mandalorian researched its location in Vale in order for his Semblance to take him there. He looked down to Cinder and smiled under his helmet. "Welcome to Beacon," he said.

"It's... beautiful," she replied. "It's..."

Djarin took her hand. "It's home."

Hearing this made Cinder's heart skip a beat. She didn't need to be afraid anymore. She could stop running. And with her new father... she could be happy. So Cinder made a promise when she hugged his arm. "Mando, I... I love you."

Djarin smiled under his helmet. "I love you too, Cinder."

The Happy Huntresses returned to Atlas just as night fell over the kingdom. And just like Fiona said, the team got back to work with the Grimm in Mantle. All except one, who made her way to the city of Atlas with two friends.

The Slave I landed on a clear spot behind a large, extravagant house. Once the ship's doors opened, two men with rifles came running out of the house to "greet" the guests.

"Hey, who are you?" one called out as he ran faster. When nobody responded, the duo ran inside to search the ship. "This isn't a public landing zone, you can't be... here?" The men searched the entire ship, but it was completely empty.

"...I have a bad feeling about this," the second man said.

"Yeah... me too," his partner agreed. "Let's head ba-"

*SLAM*

The men ran out with their rifles drawn, but didn't see anyone in the path back to the house. All they knew was that they definitely heard a door close. So they ran back inside, only to be met with the blunt end of a rifle and staff.

"Alright, that's that," said May. Using her Semblance to sneak in worked like a charm, but she needed to take care of the two guards who saw the ship land first. "If they're not in the main hall, they're probably in the dining room."

"Lead the way," said Fennec. May asked for her help in this job, since something like her current mission wasn't the Huntress' specialty.

Activating her Semblance again, May led Fennec through the entire house. It was quiet. Too quiet. May took this as a sign that the people she was looking for were exactly where she guessed they were. And the armed man in front of the dining room door was the confirmation she needed.

"May I?" Fennec whispered with a smile.

"Be my guest," said May.

Fennec stepped out of the invisible shield May had created and kicked the man before he knew what hit him. The door to the dining room burst open as he flew inwards, and the assassin stepped inside to find numerous men at a dining table staring at her. Seated at the head of that table were a man and woman in expensive clothing with blue hair.

Numerous men in nonmatching clothes were behind the couple, Fennec surmised they must be bounty hunters. No real loyalty among them, they would be easy to persuade once May's part of the plan was finished.

"...Come in," the man at the end said sarcastically. Fennec said nothing, but simply moved to the left, making room for May to step in. The man maintained his composure, not feeling very threatened or intimidated. "And who might you be?"

"...Hello Father," May addressed the man.

The couple looked to each other in confusion at the intruder's claim. But the woman leaned her head towards the table to get a better look at their uninvited guest. "...Marcus?" she asked. "Marcus, is that you?"

"Not quite, but it's me... Mother." May spat venom with her response, not forgetting how her "mother" let her be thrown into a Grimm in Vacuo.

"Well... this is unexpected," Mr. Marigold said, still feeling in control. He began to look May up and down, taking in every detail about her new appearance. "I expected that I made it clear what our current... relationship was."

"You did."

"So what the hell are you doing here?" He suddenly remembered the last time the two of them spoke. "Oh, so you're some big-shot Huntsman now?" He pointed to Fennec. "And you brought a friend to make some kind of arrest?"

That wasn't May's plan. She spent enough time with her parents to know they were untouchable in the eyes of the law. "First off, I'm a Huntress. Secondly, I'm not-"

The entire table burst out laughing at May's statement. Her bravado vanished as quickly as it came. And once her parents stood up and ceased laughing, she knew things weren't going to be much better. "And here I thought you couldn't disappoint us even more when you refused my generosity," said Mr. Marigold. "This is a new low, Marcus."

Each word he said sent a knife through May's heart. It was becoming harder and harder to blink back her tears. She didn't feel any love for her family, but that didn't mean their demeaning words didn't hurt her. And she really didn't want to go through with the rest of her plan. But she stood her ground. "That's... actually why I'm here," she said. "As I was saying, I still remember that offer you made me. That money could do a lot of good in Mantle. I want it now."

Every head turned to Mr. Marigold. "Uhh... no." Everyone burst out laughing again. But May continued to stay strong.

"It wasn't a request. Give me what you promised, and help me serve Mantle. Once you do... you'll never see me again."

This time, Mrs. Marigold had something to say. "And why would we do something like that?"

"..."

"You come into our house, make childish demands, and expect us to do what you say? We gave you everything Marcus, and you never did right by us. What more do you-?!"

Mr. Marigold raised his hand, and his wife went silent. He lowered it and looked back to May. "Well... I think your mother summed up my main point. The answer is no. Now, this was fun and all, but I think enough is enough." He raised his hand and the bounty hunters moved closer. "So I'd strongly suggest you get out of here before we throw you out."

May looked at all the weapons pointed at her. Taking a deep breath... she walked towards the door with Fennec following her.

Mr. Marigold laughed behind them. "What did you think was going to happen, boy? Did you honestly think that I'd be scared of you?"

May didn't turn around, but stopped walking. "No. You may not be scared of me. But I know you're terrified of him."

May opened the door to reveal Boba Fett, who casually walked into the dining room. He was the one who slammed the door to the house shut when he split from May and Fennec. Out of respect for May, he decided to wait before doing anything drastic. But his waiting was over.

Everyone at the table gasped at his sight.

Some of the bounty hunters dropped their weapons.

Mrs. Marigold moved closer to her husband.

And Mr. Mairgold began to chuckle. But everyone around him could tell how nervous he was. "B... Boba!" he said with a forced smile. "I thought you were dead!"

"..."

Boba approached closer to the table, and the bounty hunters merely stepped aside. It was perhaps the smartest choice they ever made. They knew killing Boba Fett would be next to impossible.

"I'm so glad to see you!" Mr. Marigold continued his attempts to gain control over the situation. But the moment Boba stopped in front of him and raised his rifle, the crime lord knew it was all pointless.

May was right; he was scared of Boba. So scared that he would do anything just for the bounty hunter to lower his weapon.

That's when he realized that there was one last hope about to walk out on him.

"Marcus! Marcus, wait! You win!"

May walked back to the table as her father continued to speak. "I'll give you the money! I have my Scroll right here!" He reached into his pocket.

*CLICK*

"Slowly," Boba callously ordered. The crime lord merely obeyed and pulled out his Scroll. Typing a few buttons, May heard her Scroll go off. She pulled it out to see that two million Lien had been added to her personal bank account.

"...Thank you," she said. Her parents and the people at the table all sighed in relief as she accepted the payment. May turned heel and began to walk to the door.

Boba and Fennec didn't follow her. Instead, Boba stayed right where he was and Fennec raised her own rifle.

"Wait, WAIT!" Mr. Marigold called out. May stopped walking and turned around. "Our deal's done! Tell these people to leave!"

"...I said you'd never see me again," May reminded them. "I don't have any more issues to work out with you. But Boba's a different story."

"But you're a Huntsman!" Mrs. Marigold called out. "You can't ignore this!"

"Huntress. And I don't know what you're talking about." May turned away and opened the door. "I never saw anything."

"...Marcus..."

"Good riddance."

May stepped out the door, leaving the members of the table and the bounty hunters at Boba's mercy.

"Boba..." Mr. Marigold began. "We... We can-"

*BANG*

The head of the crime lord exploded. His wife was covered in his blood as his corpse hit the table, fear on his lifeless face. "Oh, my Gods!" Mrs. Marigold screamed. "Oh, my-!"

*BANG*

Mrs. Marigold hit the floor, a bullet hole right between her eyes. The rest of the table was in complete silence, along with the bounty hunters. They continued their silence as Boba pulled out the chair and threw Mr. Marigold's body to the floor. He silently took the Atlesian's place.

The silence broke when Fennec stole one of the gentleman's drinks. "Hey!" he yelled. But when Fennec slammed her fist on the table, his silence returned. She joined her partner at the head of the table and began to drink out of the glass.

"Now," Boba began. "Where were we?"

A group of Nevermores were sitting on a large, crystal-like cliff. They all let out a giant screech as a black Manta flew right past them. The Manta ignored the Grimm and moved closer to an even larger cliff. Only this cliff had a sort of landing pad and a wooden door a few feet away. Once the ship landed, Aurora and Gar Saxon stepped out.

"This is the place?" Saxon asked as he looked around, seeing nothing but purple rocks, a red sky, and Grimm all around them.

"Yes," Aurora bluntly said. The duo managed to escape the Bismarck before Atlas arrested the rest of the Saxon Clan. The Happy Huntresses and the Kryze Mandalorians were focused on finding Gideon at the time that they didn't notice Gar Saxon slip away and rendezvous with Aurora. Once they saw how close Atlas was after they got on a Manta, Aurora knew exactly where to go.

The Faunus began to move closer to the door, which suddenly swung open. A black mist exited the door and flew around the duo. Saxon raised his rifle and pointed at the abnormality, but Aurora quickly grabbed it with a snarl and pushed it down. She then fell on her knees, cold sweat ran down her forehead as her eyes widened in fear. "My Queen... I failed you." The mist suddenly began to take form, transforming into a cross Salem. "The Mandalorian has the Maiden, and Atlas has quenched Gideon's insurrection."

"..."

Salem stared down at her servant, saying nothing. Saxon was also silent as Aurora continued to explain herself. "We haven't heard anything from Watts. It's possible that the Mandalorian captured him and sent that message."

"...You are all that remains?" Salem asked as she turned to Saxon.

"...We both are," Aurora answered.

Salem waked closer to the Faunus. "Aurora... you've lost so much today." More sweat came down Aurora's forehead. "Gideon's army drove a wedge in between Atlas' army... now it is whole again. The Mandalorians would have made loyal servants... now they give their allegiance to no one but themselves. And we had a chance to have a Maiden by our side... now she is lost to us." Salem stopped and looked down at the Faunus. "While you were making your way here, I came to realize something." Aurora closed her eyes and grit her teeth. She had seen what happened to people who failed Salem. And now, it was her turn.

"Your Grace..." Aurora began to beg as chills moved up her spine. "I-"

"I realized... this was all my fault."

Aurora stopped shaking, opened her eyes, and looked up. "P... Pardon?"

Salem extended a hand to the Faunus, which she took. "I am the reason you couldn't claim what you sought for so long. I believed, with help from Watts, I could divide the Maiden powers between people, just as Ozpin divided his power long ago. I was wrong. Now I see we must rely solely on you obtaining the Maidens by force."

"Of course, ma'am." Aurora lowered her head.

"Walk with me."

Salem walked back into her castle as Aurora walked with her. Saxon considered leaving, but looking back at the Grimm made him have second thoughts. So he joined the duo as they walked through the castle's halls.

"I will continue our efforts," said Aurora. "Where do we start?"

"By increasing our forces and escalating our plans." Salem looked back to Saxon. "Saxon, is it?" The Mandalorian nodded. "I understand you lost many of your forces today. So I would also understand if you wish for revenge." She extended her hand. "The path to your desires can be found through me. If you-"

"Say no more," Saxon boldly cut her off. "If it means killing the Mand'alor and the Kryze... I'll do whatever you ask."

"...Good." Salem turned back to Aurora. "You said the other Mandalorian has the Maiden. Where do you believe he will take her?"

"Gideon's capture may give them a false sense of security," Aurora pondered. "They may return to the clan we took her from."

"...Then we must prepare. I have been working on an alternative method to claim the power of the Maidens while Watts was experimenting with you. We will begin tomorrow."

"Of course, ma'am." Aurora lowered her head. "My life is yours to command."

The words were music to the witch's ears. Smiling, she waved her hand to send her away. Aurora walked away from her with Saxon following.

The solitude gave time for Salem to ponder her next move. The first thing she did was continue her stroll through the castle. The red light that escaped through the windows warmed her pale skin, each step she took rang through the halls like thunder. But that wasn't the only sound that bounced off the walls.

Her walk led her past multiple side rooms, where she heard training taking place in two separate rooms. She didn't bother looking at what her other servants were doing, but based on the screams of rage, the flashes of red light, and the sound of Grimm turning to dust, Salem knew they were training hard.

But this would not be enough for her plans to come to fruition. As she said earlier, Salem would need to increase her forces. Luckily, she knew someone who was planning to do so at the moment.

Salem stopped in front of a door. Only, it was a substance that merely acted as a door. Rather than a wooden piece that swung open, the door was black, wet, and had bones with a symbol in the middle. It was almost as if the door was alive. Once it opened by falling into the ground, Salem stepped inside the small room, admiring the collection she made over the years. The collection... of a warrior's trophies.

Salem was standing in a room full of Mandalorian armor. To her right, there were the modern suits most Mandalorians wore, with weaponized gauntlets and jetpacks. To her left was a row of more simplistic armor, resembling that of a knight's armor. The helmets served more like masks and they appeared to be much heavier than modern Mandalorian armor. It was primitive and weaponless, but it still served its purpose. The only thing that connected the two kinds of armor were the visors that rested in the middle.

The witch's red eyes landed on an empty spot to her right, just beside the row of modern Mandalorian armor. The space was large enough to fit just one more suit.

The news she received helped Salem decide what to do with the Mandalorian who had interfered with her plans. "He will make a fine addition to my collection," she said out loud.

TheCourtofTalons · Jul 25, 2023

Chapter 21: The Academy

"Well Ms. Rainart, that appears to be all the time we have."

"Thank you, Professor. I think all of this is starting to make sense."

"Good. But just to make sure it is, read pages 300 to 325. I want an essay on my desk when the weekend is over."

"Of course. Have a good night."

A young woman with long black hair and green eyes walked out of her teacher's office. Just as she opened the door, the nametag on the door fell off. The girl picked it up to see the name "Glynda Goodwitch" carved on it.

"Ugh," mumbled Professor Goodwitch. She moved her hand on her desk to pick up a riding crop. Pointing the crop at the student and flicking it, Glynda saw the nametag fly out the student's hand and find its way to Glynda's other hand. "I've been meaning to fix this. Run along." The student left the office in a hurry.

"Hmm..." Glynda looked over desk. Her student's most recent tests had been graded, her pens and pencils were in their proper place, and all of the day's paperwork was folded and put away. It seemed the Professor of Combat at Beacon Academy had some time on her hands before going home. She could call it an early night if she wanted to. But instead, she turned on a holographic screen and pressed a few keys on her keyboard. The screen changed from the default blue to Lisa Lavender, the top anchorwoman of the Vale News Network.

"And in other news, General Ironwood has just announced that the former Major Gideon has finally been arrested. Earlier today, the Atlesian military discovered Gideon and the remains of his insurrection in Argus. Huntsmen and local militaries across the globe have been working tirelessly to bring his soldiers to justice, but we can all rest a little easier knowing the Atlesian military is whole once again. The citizens caught in the crossfire claimed that a group of Mandalorians also aided Gideon. When confronted about this, Atlas officials said they could neither confirm nor deny their presence. Gideon's court marital will take place-"

The computer screen suddenly stopped playing the news. Instead, a message in red flashed on the screen over and over again.

PROXIMITY ALERT

"What?" Glynda jumped off her seat at the sight of the message. Someone was trespassing on the school grounds, and she needed to stop them quickly and efficiently. On a hunch, Glynda decided to look at the cameras in the school's courtyard. And sure enough, there were two intruders staring at the statue in the courtyard. The sight of a little girl confused the professor, but that didn't stop her from zooming in on the other intruder.

Time seemed to freeze for Glynda Goodwitch as she got a good look at the Mandalorian.

A cold sweat ran down her forehead.

Her hands began to shake.

And a strange chill ran up Glynda's spine, lingering at each vertebrae.

Once the chill disappeared, Glynda regained her focus. A scowl formed on her face as she gained a tight grip on her riding crop. The first thing she did was use her Semblance to summon her Scroll to her palm and send a quick message.

"Intruders in the courtyard, I may need your help."

Glynda put down her Scroll and ran out of her office, slamming the door behind her.

"How about... now?"

"...No."

"...Now?"

"...Nope."

Cinder groaned and rolled her eyes at the Mandalorian's response. "Don't take this the wrong way, Mando, but I think there's something wrong with you," she said.

The sound of a dry chuckle made Cinder look away from the statue and up at her father. "If by 'something wrong,' you mean that art doesn't 'speak to me,' then yes," said Djarin. "I'd have to agree."

When the clan of two first arrived at Beacon Academy, they knew their main mission was to find Ozma. Or rather, Ozpin. While Djarin had his mind set on going inside the castle, Cinder was entranced by the architecture and art. Especially the statue of a Huntsman and Huntress standing over a Grimm, going in for the kill. Djarin stopped for a moment to join her, as she insisted she could hear the statue 'speak to her'. She said it was telling her that Beacon would be a place of greatness, how its students would know no fear.

Djarin stared at the statue with her, but only saw a rock. And that idea slightly annoyed Cinder.

"Remind me why I waste my time opening your mind," said Cinder.

"Maybe you're the stubborn one," he jokingly retorted. He chuckled again and rubbed her head. "Alright, we should head inside."

"Is that the main door?" Cinder pointed to a large door behind the statue.

"Has to be." Djarin began walking to the door, Cinder slowly followed him.

"I didn't think about it until now, but I am a little nervous about meeting Ozma."

"He might want to see your powers, but you'll do great." Djarin got closer to the door. "You have nothing to worry about." He prepared to open it. "It's not like all of this will blow up in our faces."

*BOOM*

The door exploded in Djarin's face, knocking him backwards. Cinder was a couple of feet behind him, and was knocked back by the sudden shockwave. Djarin slid on the ground and came close to the statue. His armor protected him from the debris, the only thing bothering him was the ringing in his ears.

Once the ringing died down, Djarin saw Cinder slowly stand up. He quickly teleported himself to her and helped her stand. "Are you okay?" he quickly asked.

"I'm fine," Cinder said. She had a small cut on her forehead, but her Aura quickly healed it. "What just happened?"

"Don't move!"

Djarin and Cinder turned back to the door to see a blonde woman wearing a white long-sleeved, pleated top and a black high-waisted pencil skirt. The woman was pointing some kind of stick at the duo with the intent to hurt someone if she deemed it necessary.

Djarin slowly put his hands up and began to stand. He saw Cinder reach to her waist to get her swords, but he stopped her. "Cinder, put your hands up," he said. She looked back at him in disbelief, wanting to fight the woman for hurting them. The Mandalorian knew this was true, so she needed to be stopped. "Just do it. Please."

"..."

Cinder reluctantly raised her hands, but didn't remove the anger on her face.

"Who are you?" Glynda asked, her crop still pointed at the intruders. "What do you want?"

The Mandalorian had been on the wrong end of a person's weapon before. People had pointed it at him out of fear, anger, and a pure desire to kill. So he could see the woman was clearly angry at him. But her green eyes displayed the smallest amount of fear. Djarin didn't dig deeper into this, he simply answered her question. "We're looking for Professor Ozpin," he said. "We don't mean any harm."

"...Are you Mandalorian?"

"We are."

"Then I'm going to give you your first and final warning. Leave."

"We can't do that."

Glynda looked down at the little girl, who followed the man's lead and had her hands in the air. "Young lady, I'd strongly suggest you slowly walk over to me."

"And I'd strongly suggest you stop pointing that at my father," Cinder coldly replied. Her anger burned within her, and it was hard to maintain her current composure. But for Djarin, she held on as long as she could.

"Your-?" Glynda looked back at the Mandalorian in surprise. She recomposed herself before looking back at Cinder. "Your father?"

"That's right. He brought me here to see Ozpin. We have something he wants."

"...In that case, it seems this is your lucky night." Glynda used her crop to point at the area behind the duo.

Cinder and Djarin turned around to see a man in black clothes. The man had silver hair, a small pair of glasses on his face, and a cane in his hands. He was also wearing a very neutral expression on his face. "How can I help you two?" the man asked politely.

"...We've come a long way looking for you," Djarin replied. "You are Ozpin, aren't you?"

"I am. And what is it you want from me?"

"We don't mean you any harm. We've been quested to find you."

"Why is that? Are you a bounty hunter?"

"Yes, but that's not why we're here." He looked down to Cinder, and nodded. "She's my reason for being here."

Cinder moved forward, still keeping her hands up. Glynda shifted her crop, but Ozpin extended his hand to her. "It's alright, Glynda." He kneeled down to the child and asked her a question. "Young lady, do you know this man?"

Cinder looked back at Djarin with a smile. "Yes," she replied. Cinder turned back to Ozpin. "He's my father." Djarin softly smiled under his helmet.

"I see." He stood back up and looked at the Mandalorian. "I couldn't help but overhear that your daughter is the reason you're here."

"Then you also heard we have something you want," Djarin reminded him.

"Which is?"

Djarin turned back to the angry Huntress. "Tell her to leave us. This might... surprise her."

"No deal," said Glynda. "Whatever you want to show him, you show me as well."

"Don't be alarmed," said Ozpin. "But she's right. You can show me what you have with her."

"...At least tell her to put down her weapon," Djarin requested.

"..."

Ozpin took a moment to consider the request, but looked back at Glynda and nodded. She slowly lowered her crop, but didn't take her eyes off the Mandalorian.

Djarin, on the other hand, turned to Cinder. "It's alright," he assured her. "Show him."

"..."

Cinder took a deep breath and closed her eyes. She then extended her hands, which caused a soft wind to form around her. The wind became stronger, and Cinder felt herself come off the ground. Once her legs touched nothing but air, Cinder opened to her eyes and felt the familiar heat come to her. The first thing she saw was Glynda move closer to her with an open jaw and Ozpin's eyes slightly widen.

"By the Gods," Glynda said in disbelief. "You're the..." She trailed off and turned back to the Mandalorian. "You found-"

"The Fall Maiden," said Ozpin, sharing Glynda's sentiments. He turned back to the Mandalorian. "But... how?"

"That's... a long story," he replied. "One we can share with you if you're willing to let us stay."

"Of course." Ozpin moved away from Djarin, towards Beacon Tower. "Come inside, both of you. We can talk more in my office." Glynda followed him back to the door, waving her crop at the debris. It suddenly flew in the air and reformed the door she broke.

Djarin stayed behind to watch Cinder come down and her fire disappear. "Looks like you blew their minds," he said. Cinder chuckled at his joke and watched the Huntsman and Huntress walk towards the tower.

"I don't like her," she confessed.

"I don't either. And I don't think she likes me."

"She seemed angry when you said you were a Mandalorian. Is that why?"

"Maybe. But we can't worry about that now." Djarin extended his hand to Cinder. "Let's head inside." She took it without hesitation and Djarin proudly led his little girl into Beacon Academy.

Ozpin and Glynda led Djarin and Cinder through the halls of Beacon. Cinder took in every detail, her amazement of the art made her forget about the incident from earlier. Djarin's memory was harder to erase, which was why he continued to hold her hand throughout their journey. He even held it when they all went into a small elevator.

The ride on the elevator wasn't very long, and it led everyone to an extraordinary office. Large, rotating cogs filled the entire ceiling and floor, leaving nothing but a desk and a small swivel chair in front of a window. Ozpin immediately walked over and poured a brown liquid out of a teapot into a mug.

"Would either of you like a drink?" he asked calmly.

The clan of two said the exact same response. "No, thank you."

Ozpin took a sip of his drink and sat down. "Well then, I believe introductions are in order." He gestured his hand to Glynda. "This is Professor Glynda Goodwitch, and it seems you know that I am Professor Ozpin, Headmaster of Beacon Academy."

"We do," said Djarin. "I'm Din Djarin. This is my daughter, Cinder."

Ozpin took another sip. "Before we begin, I'd like to apologize for the... welcome you received. We're wary of intruders, but..." Ozpin turned to Glynda. "I think we may have crossed a line."

Glynda turned to Ozpin, understanding by "we," he meant her. She was still wary of having a Mandalorian at Beacon, but she understood her retaliation was brutal. "...I'm sorry as well," she said.

"...I accept the apology," said Djarin. Cinder nodded, the chip on her shoulder didn't leave her just yet.

"Thank you. Now, I hope you don't mind if we ask you some questions."

"I don't mind."

Ozpin turned to Cinder. "Would you mind answering some as well?"

Before she answered, Cinder turned back to Glynda. "Mando, te dala ru'kir ba'slanar." (Mando, the woman should leave.)

Djarin turned to Cinder. "Cinder, vi liser't vaabir ibac," he said. (Cinder, we can't do that.) He understood Cinder wanted to speak Mando'a for privacy, in order not to reveal too much. But he changed his mind when he saw Glynda staring daggers at him. "I'm sorry, she doesn't want your friend here."

"I'm afraid that's out of the question," Glynda retorted, earning a glare from Cinder. "I have-"

"Actually, that may be for the best."

Everyone turned to Ozpin. "Glynda, perhaps you should go home a little early tonight," he suggested. "I'll tell you everything in the morning."

"...Yes, sir," the professor replied. She then walked to the elevator door without a word. She only looked back to the Mandalorian with a small scowl.

Once the door closed, Ozpin spoke again. "She's really not that bad once you know her."

"A lot of people hurt me before I came here," Cinder retorted. "It's... easy to see similarities."

"I understand. But no one will hurt you here. I'll make sure of that."

Cinder began to smile. "Thank you."

The Headmaster nodded. "Now, Cinder. How did you manage to obtain the power of the Fall Maiden?"

The direct shift in the atmosphere caught Cinder off guard, so Djarin leaned over to her. "Vaabir gar copad ni at jorhaa'ir par jii?" he asked calmly. (Do you want me to talk for now?)

"Elek... gedet'ye," Cinder said. (Yes, please.) She would be able to answer questions, but she wanted to follow the Mandalorian's lead first.

Ozpin didn't speak Mando'a that well, but he didn't interrupt Djarin's answer. "Cinder gained the powers... because of me. I mentioned earlier that I'm a bounty hunter. One of the bounties I hunted was the previous Maiden."

"Lila Birch." Ozpin knew the woman well. He personally chose her as the next Fall Maiden, she was just like the first Fall Maiden he met. When news of her demise reached his way, Ozpin was heartbroken. Unfortunately, he had no leads of who killed her.

Until now.

"Were you the one who killed her?"

"No. I was hired by an Atlesian named Arthur Watts. He gave me specific instructions to bring her back alive. Another bounty hunter, a droid with different orders, killed Lila. That was when the power transferred to Cinder."

"If you don't mind, I'd like to ask Cinder a question."

"..."

Djarin turned to Cinder, who nodded to say that she was willing to answer now. She turned to Ozpin as he asked the question. "Did you have any previous interaction with Lila? Before she died?"

Cinder had been following Djarin's lead since the beginning of the interview. She knew everything he just said was the truth, so she told the truth herself. "...I did," she answered. "I met her after she saved me from a Grimm. She hid me from the droid and my father before she died."

"She... hid you... from your father?"

"He wasn't my father then." Cinder reached out for Djarin's hand. Once she touched it and he returned her embrace, Cinder smiled. "He found me hiding and saved me from the droid. He adopted me right before we came here."

"Ah, I see. So, you two must have been traveling together for a long time."

"We have. Once he saved me from Watts, we had to go into hiding. That's when I started training to be a Mandalorian."

"And she's gotten good," Djarin included. "Very good."

"Well, then. Perhaps she could fit in with some of the students here." Ozpin slightly chuckled at the joke. "But I must admit, I'm surprised you came here instead of your people."

"Actually, my goal was for Cinder to join my clan. She was welcomed by my people after we helped defend our village from the insurrection. But, we found out her place wasn't with us."

"Your people quested you to find me."

"Yes. A Mandalorian Armorer told us to find you, Ozpin. Or should I say 'Ozma?'"

"..."

Djarin saw his eyebrows slightly rise, but the man's facial expression was mostly neutral. It seemed he was choosing his next words very carefully. After about a half minute of thinking, Ozpin made his choice. "Ozma. Now that's a name I haven't heard in a long time."

"My people said you could train Cinder."

"I can. And I will."

Cinder smiled at the promise, and Djarin felt relieved that the main part of his quest was finally over. But they still had questions to answer.

"...Mr. Djarin, I think you should know that I have some good relations with a few Mandalorians," Ozpin confessed. "Tell me, are you of Clan Vizsla?"

"No. I was a Child of the Watch before Cinder and I became our own clan."

"...The Watch? I don't believe I'm familiar with that group."

"We live in secret, watching the rest of the world."

"I see. So, you trained her in the ways of the Mandalorians. But I find it difficult for you to train her with the Fall Maiden powers."

"I never had a teacher," Cinder spoke up. "My powers have been a trial by fire." Cinder opened her palm and a ball of fire appeared. "Everywhere we went, we were hunted. Watts was working with the Atlesian insurrection, who wanted to steal my powers. So I had no choice... but to stop them."

"...I understand. But Cinder, you can trust me when I say you will be safe here." He turned to Djarin. "And your father seems to have done a good of protecting you."

"...Not all the time," Djarin softly whispered.

Cinder heard this and saw his head lower. "Mando, that wasn't your fault."

He turned to Cinder. "I'm sorry, I know you're right. But it'll... take some time for me to believe that."

"Excuse me, but what are you talking about?" Ozpin interrupted.

Djarin sighed before explaining. "Cinder was kidnapped a few hours before we came here. It took me some time, but I found her. But not before some... things happened."

"What 'things?'"

Cinder quickly answered. "I met Salem."

Ozpin's eyebrows raised higher again, and he stared at Cinder with sympathy. "Oh, dear," he said as his heart ached. "Did she hurt you?"

"No. She wanted me to join her. She tried to convince me my father was dead, and the best thing to do would be to join her. Either that, or they could try to steal my powers again."

"And how exactly did they plan to do that?"

Djarin was taken aback by the question, and didn't want Cinder to relive what Watts did to her. "Cinder, you don't have to answer that."

"...You're right," said Ozpin. "I'm sorry, I didn't-"

"It's okay," Cinder said, but not to Ozpin. She turned to Djarin to reassure him that she would be fine answering. So, she turned back to the Headmaster. "Watts believed he could steal my powers by taking my blood. He had been giving it to a Faunus named Aurora."

"...It is possible to transfer the powers to another, Cinder," Ozpin said. "It's how the Maidens have existed this long. But I never thought of a method like this. Was he successful?"

"Aurora said the power died within her. I don't think my blood is the key."

"I'm sorry that happened to you." Ozpin took another sip of his drink, but it was starting to turn cold. So he put the mug down and turned to the Mandalorian. "You must have gone to great lengths to find her."

"I did. It's... actually how I was able to find out more about the Maidens."

"Oh?"

"Before coming here, I learned about another Maiden who lived with a tribe of bandits. Their leader was Raven Branwen. She said-"

Ozpin suddenly leaned forward and interrupted the Mandalorian. "This was... earlier today?" he asked.

"Yes."

"Forgive me for asking this, but where were you around 4:00 this afternoon?"

"...Haven Academy."

"...I was told the school had been attacked around that time. You were there, weren't you?"

"I was." Djarin remembered his promise to Raven, but he knew Ozpin had used the Relic of Knowledge before, so he believed it was safe to talk about it here. "I used the Relic of Knowledge to find Cinder. It was my only way."

Ozpin was surprised to hear this. From what a little bird told him, the Vault was still closed. Nobody had taken the Relic, but now the Headmaster knew that someone had used it.

But there was one other thing on his mind.

"So, you murdered Professor Lionheart?" he asked, leaving no hint of subtlety or sympathy.

"...Yes," Djarin replied.

Ozpin reached for his cane. Djarin and Cinder noticed this, and mentally prepared themselves for an attack. But the Headmaster asked another question first. "...May I ask why?"

"Because he helped hurt Cinder."

Ozpin didn't take his hand off his cane. Djarin turned to Cinder, who was oblivious about who they were talking about. "Professor Lionheart was one of the men who helped Watts. You met him the night I came back for you."

Cinder's eyes winded at the realization. She remembered that Faunus, how he claimed to have protected her. But when in reality, he just begged Watts to stop. Rather than dwelling on one of the worst nights of her life, Cinder vouched for Djarin. "He said he was protecting me, but he was wrong. If he reallywanted to protect me, he would have stopped Watts."

"..."

Given his experience, the apparent betrayal of one of his most trusted colleagues wasn't entirely hard for Ozpin to believe. But he had a really hard time believing Leo of all people would be willing to abandon him like this. A small part of him had hope, however, as he asked his next question. "Do you... have proof of this?"

Djarin stood up and pressed a few buttons on his gauntlet. A blue screen appeared with an image of a whimpering Professor Lionheart holding a barrel. Djarin pressed another button, and it played a video. "No, please! She's just a child!" the video of Lionheart said. The video moved to show Cinder, scared and shaking. The little girl turned away from the video and covered her ears, hoping to tune it out.

After a few more seconds like this, Cinder felt a hand on her shoulder. She looked up to see Djarin looking down to her. She lowered her hands and smiled at him, glad that it was over.

Words couldn't describe how Ozpin was feeling. He had just witnessed this stranger present him with proof of a terrible truth. He had trusted Lionheart for years, and the Faunus had done so much good in all his years of service. How could he do this?

"Leo... what happened to you?" Ozpin whispered.

"We're sorry you had to find out like this," Cinder said sincerely. "But I meant what I said. He just watched and begged, all he cared about was his own safety."

Ozpin stood up, taking the handle of his cane in his left hand. Rather than attacking, he simply walked with it. "I think... I've asked enough of you tonight," he said. "If you'd still like to stay here and let me train your daughter, I can show you where you'll be staying."

The clan of two stood up and followed Ozpin to the elevator. It descended back to the entrance of Beacon Tower and they all walked outside, with Ozpin leading them down another path down the avenue.

"Our student dormitories are over there," Ozpin pointed to another building not far from Beacon Tower. "But we also have dormitories for faculty who choose to live on campus." The avenue stopped at a white brick building with two floors. After they stepped inside, Ozpin led them to the first room on the second floor. Opening the door, he revealed a room with two beds, a table, and a window with a perfect view of the rest of the Academy. "I hope this room is to your liking."

Djarin opened his mouth to reply, but Cinder rushed inside and jumped onto the bed. She took a moment to enjoy the mattress before turning to the window. "It's perfect," she said as she admired the view. She then turned back to Ozpin with a smile. "Thank you."

Djarin turned back to Ozpin. "You heard her," he said as he entered the room. "This will be fine."

"In that case, I'll see you in the morning." Ozpin began to close the door, but stopped himself. Djarin eyes were locked on the Headmaster.

"...Is something wrong?"

"Before I go, Mr. Djarin, I have one more question for you."

Cinder looked to see Ozpin and Djarin whispering. Djarin then activated his gauntlet's screen and pressed on it. After he turned it off, Ozpin felt his pocket vibrate. He pulled out a Scroll and looked at an image. "Thank you. Good night." This time, Ozpin fully closed the door, leaving Cinder and the Mandalorian to enjoy the room. Cinder remained motionless on the mattress and Djarin pulled up a chair.

"So far, so good," said the Mandalorian. He removed his helmet and placed it on the nightstand.

Cinder immediately looked at his face. "Are you okay?" she asked as she looked for any bruises and cuts.

"I'm fine. My armor took the majority of the blast." Djarin took this time to talk to Cinder about Glynda. "On that topic, we should probably talk about what happened."

"I don't like her." Cinder sat up, not taking her eyes off him. "She could have killed us."

"You're right, but we were trespassing. She was defending the school."

"By blowing up the door? She's dangerous."

"Not anymore. Glynda answers to Ozpin, and won't do anything without his say. Once he explains everything, she won't attack us again. She might even start to trust us." He put a hand on her knee. "We'll need to start trusting her too."

"I... I don't know." Cinder shifted to her side, staring at the wall. But Djarin didn't give up.

"Cinder...I know it seems hard right now. You'll need time to let this go, I get it. But we can't force her to leave us alone whenever we want." Cinder looked back at him. "Sometimes, we don't get to choose our allies. Especially in times of conflict. Ozpin and Glynda are on our side, and we're guests here. We need to follow their rules. Okay?"

Cinder sighed, but smiled at the Mandalorian. "I'll do it for you."

Djarin smiled. "Thank you, Cinder." He stood up and moved the chair back. "We should get some sleep."

"I wish I brought my book." Cinder remembered she left her Mandalorian book back in Nevarro, planning to get it back once the new Razor Crest was ready. "I mean, I'm tired now, but it would pass the time for other days."

"I can get it tomorrow if you-" Djarin suddenly remembered something else. He reached to his belt and felt a small book tucked between his waist and the belt. He took that book to show the Armorer The Girl in The Lonely Tower, and he just remembered he still had it. "I still have this."

Cinder gasped at the sight of Djarin holding her book of fairy tales. "My book!" She quickly sat up and took it, flipping through the pages. Seeing that none of them were damaged, she hugged the book to her chest. "Thank you, I thought I lost this."

"You're welcome." Djarin moved a little closer to her bed and kneeled. "Do you want me to read you one before you go to bed?"

Cinder yawned in response. "I'm actually pretty tired right now." So she pulled up the covers and slid into the bed.

"Alright, then." Djarin leaned down and kissed her forehead before picking up his helmet. "Good night, Cinder."

"Good night, Mando." Cinder smiled at him before turning to her side.

Djarin put his helmet back on and turned out the light, sliding onto the other bed. Before he drifted off, he began to replay the evening's events in his head. He wasn't expecting their 'welcome' to go poorly, but the rest of the evening went better than he thought. He played his cards right, and now Ozpin was willing to train Cinder. The only thing was... it seemed their quest was over. Now, he wasn't sure what the future held for the clan of two.

But Djarin quickly reaffirmed that his future was with Cinder, wherever she went and whatever happened to her. And now, he wouldn't have it any other way. He was confident things would go safely at Beacon. He had become the father she needed. Now, Djarin promised himself that he was going to be the father Cinder wanted him to be. He didn't know what that meant, and a small part of him believed Cinder didn't know either.

So he would find that out with her. And along the way, he knew they would be a good family.

The thought of this was enough to make Djarin sleep well during his first night at Beacon Academy.

"She's gone."

Ozpin sighed at the message on his Scroll. After he heard about Raven obtaining the Spring Maiden, he was hoping to use Djarin's knowledge of her camp to regain the power. But his field agent, who shared a history with Raven, had just reported that she was gone, having moved camp somewhere else.

The news Ozpin received disappointed him, but the Headmaster focused on his current mission: training the Fall Maiden.

The elevator Ozpin was in had just touched down to Beacon Tower's entrance, and he came face-to-face with a stern Glynda Goodwitch. Not only did her anger show, but it also looked like she hardly slept. Her glasses couldn't hide the circles under her eyes, and her hair was poorly tied in her usual bun. "Glynda," he addressed his colleague after taking a sip from his mug. "You look... unwell."

"I was hoping we could talk about last night," Glynda said.

"How much sleep did you get last night?"

"I got enough."

"I highly doubt that." The Headmaster began to walk towards the door. "I'm going to speak with our guests now, but you should-"

*SLAM*

The door slammed shut by itself, right in Ozpin's face. He didn't need to turn around to know that Glynda had her crop pointing at the door. But he slowly sighed and turned back to the angry woman. "Glynda, I-"

"You're letting him stay?!" Glynda yelled at the top of her lungs. "Why?!"

Ozpin calmly sipped his drink and answered her question with another question. "Would you rather that I separate a child from her father?"

"..."

"The Maiden is the Mandalorian's adopted daughter, and from what they told me last night, the bond they share is no different than that of a father and his biological child."

"...Ozpin, I've trusted your judgment for years, and-"

"So trust me now, Glynda." He walked up to Glynda and put a hand on her shoulder. "And know that my main concern is with our new Fall Maiden. Should things turn out... dangerous with the Mandalorian, I am prepared to act." He then turned back to the door. "But I can't know more about him if you won't let me."

"..."

Glynda used her Semblance to open the door, and Ozpin began to walk back to the faculty dormitories. His second-in-command followed to his left and spoke again. "Can I at least know what he told you last night?"

"He told me much, and detecting a lie from him and the child proved to be nearly impossible."

"What did he say about Lila?"

"It appears Salem's forces hired him to bring Lila alive. They planned to use his previous ignorance of the Maidens to their advantage."

"Did it work?"

"Almost. According to them, another bounty hunter killed Lila, who was hiding the child from harm. Once the powers transferred to Cinder, Djarin saved her from the hunter and Salem."

"If he didn't know about the Maidens, then why didn't he just bring her back to his people?"

"He did. That's when he learned who I am and why Cinder had to come here."

"Is that so? I'm surprised they didn't use their power for themselves."

"That reminds me; he told me that Raven Branwen is using the Spring Maiden for herself."

"How could he know that?"

"She told him. Cinder was kidnapped before they came here, and another Mandalorian told our friend about Raven. So he went to her for help, and apparently she let her Maiden lead him to the Vault."

Glynda took a moment to process this. If he was at Haven Academy recently, then that meant the Mandalorian may have been involved with its Headmaster. She grew angry again and quickened her pace.

"There's something else you should know." Ozpin stopped walking and sighed. "Leo betrayed us."

Glynda's pace came to a halt at the sound of those words. "...What?"

"Djarin had proof that he helped Salem's forces study Cinder. It was their goal to see if they could divide the Maiden powers among other people using her blood."

"..."

Glynda put a hand on her open mouth, speechless at the terrible truth.

"Before Djarin used the Relic, he confronted Leo. While I don't agree with what he did, I can understand he saw Leo as a threat." Ozpin looked down at the ground. "I just... wish things ended differently."

After what felt like an eternity, Glynda spoke again. "Oz... you may be right. But we can't trust him... can we?"

"I trust that he wishes to do what he thinks is best for his daughter. And right now, he thinks Cinder needs to stay here and train with her powers. And I agree."

Glynda agreed as well, finding it hard to argue with Ozpin's logic. And given that he apparently rescued her before coming to Beacon, the Mandalorian seemed to regard Cinder's safety as his top priority. If he didn't believe Beacon to be safe, they wouldn't have come here.

"So, what now?" Glynda asked. "What do we do?"

"I wish to see how strong Cinder is with the power of the Fall Maiden. And you're going home."

"But, Oz-"

"Glynda, please. I think you can rest a little easier now, knowing the Mandalorian isn't an immediate threat. If something goes wrong, you'll be the first to know. But you can't do anything in your state."

Glynda sighed and rubbed her eyes. "Very well. Just... be careful."

"Thank you, Glynda."

The teachers began to go their separate ways, Glynda heading to the landing zone, planning to take an airship back to Vale. And she began to think about Ozpin's choice. She knew Leo betrayed them to Salem, but did that really justify the Mandalorian killing him? She didn't know the answer, but that made her think about his actions at Haven. He could have stolen the Relic for Salem or himself, but he just put it back after asking his question.

Glynda stopped walking.

The Mandalorian... asked the Relic of Knowledge a question.

"Ozpin!"

The Headmaster turned around to see Glynda walking back towards him. But rather than a look of anger, Glynda's eyes spoke confusion. "Are you sure the Mandalorian used the Lamp?"

"That's why he was there," he answered. "Why do you-?"

"I thought you said all the questions were used up?"

"That's... right, I did. I'm sorry, but-" Ozpin took out his Scroll and pressed a few buttons. Glynda could see that he was looking at his calendar and could hear him mumbling to himself. "I suppose I made a mistake in my calculations. When I told you about the Lamp, new questions could be answered the following week." He quickly put away the Scroll. "Then this means Haven needs extra security."

"But, Oz-"

"Don't worry, Glynda. I'll take care of everything. Run along." Ozpin walked back to the faculty dorms at a slightly faster pace, leaving a confused and speechless Glynda.

Ozpin went back to his guest's room to find the Mandalorian performing maintenance on his rifle and pistol and Cinder eating a bowl of cereal while reading a small book. He explained that today would be a good day to see what Cinder could do with the power of the Fall Maiden. They agreed and followed the Headmaster back to Beacon Tower.

"I was hoping you could show me what you've learned so far," said Ozpin, who opened the door to the tower.

"She's learned a lot on her own," said Djarin, who was holding Cinder's hand. "But how do you plan on training her? And where?"

Ozpin looked down to Cinder. "Like you said, this test will be a trial by fire. As for where we'll train..." The trio stepped into the elevator and Ozpin pushed a button. "I know the perfect place."

Djarin and Cinder immediately felt the elevator descend rather than rise to a higher floor. Cinder realized there was more to Beacon Tower than meets the eye. The possibility excited her, which caused her to look up at Djarin and smile. Djarin rubbed her head right before the elevator stopped moving.

The doors revealed a large empty room. The dimmed lights barely shone on the walls, and nothing stood in their way. The room gave the Mandalorian a sense of familiarity. "Is this Beacon's Vault?" he asked. The only thing missing from this scene was a large golden door, but the space was the same as Haven's Vault.

"Not quite," Ozpin answered. "Let's just say the Beacon Relic will be hard to find."

"..."

Ozpin took two more steps before putting his arm in front of the clan of two. Once they stopped, Ozpin moved away from them. He took about six steps before turning around. "Cinder, this will be your first trial. I want you to attack me."

"You?" Cinder asked.

"Yes. Do not feel the need to hold back."

"But I might-"

"Don't worry about me. If you recall..." Ozpin began to spin his cane. "I am the Headmaster at Beacon Academy. And I have trained both Huntsmen and Maidens since before you were born." The Headmaster turned to the Mandalorian. "This fight will end once one of our Auras break. I'd suggest you stand back."

Djarin looked at Cinder. "Don't worry," he assured her. "Just do your best." He stepped back to the wall.

Cinder felt her confidence come naturally to her with her father's words. Once Ozpin held his cane so that the blunt end was facing her, Cinder took this as a sign to begin. And her first action was to float in the air. Her eyes burned as fire escaped from her hand.

Ozpin was quick to move out of the way, as if he expected this to be Cinder's first attack. He continued to move as more jets of flame scorched the floor where he once stood.

He switched to the offensive and jumped in the air, preparing to strike Cinder. But Cinder was quick to stop floating, and the cane just missed her face. She used her wind powers again to shoot herself away from Ozpin. The wind hit his chest and knocked him back a few feet.

Cinder landed with ease while Ozpin regained his balance by slamming his feet on the ground. But he remained unfazed as he charged towards Cinder. The child used fireballs this time, sending four at her opponent.

Ozpin stopped running and watched the fire move closer. Rather than dodging each one, he moved at seemingly inhuman speed, deflecting them all. Just as the last ball exploded, Ozpin charged at Cinder.

She raised her hands in the air for another attack, but regretted her decision once she felt multiple strikes to her torso. The last one was powerful enough to send Cinder sliding on the floor and break her Aura. And as promised, Ozpin stopped fighting.

Djarin teleported himself to Cinder and helped her stand. As she stood, Cinder looked at her torso. "He... That wasn't even a full minute," she said, unable to believe how her Aura broke so quickly.

"Cinder, it's okay," said Djarin, sensing her disappointment. He tried to stop her disappointment from turning into self-loathing. "He's the Headmaster, he's had more experience with this. And you did good."

"Your father is right," Ozpin said as he stopped walking. "Your ability to act quickly is impressive, Cinder. I wasn't expecting you to strike me so quickly."

"...I still have a lot to learn, don't I?"

"Everyone does. Don't judge yourself so harshly." He kneeled down to her level. "If anything, I should blame myself for ending the battle so quickly. I wish I learned more about your abilities."

"She's able to do more," Djarin included. "I've seen her create thunderstorms and sandstorms."

Ozpin hummed to himself before answering. "Thunderstorms? That's very advanced work, Cinder."

"I was trying to create one in here," Cinder confessed. "But it takes a lot of energy."

"True, and it works much better when you're outside. Using clouds rather than making your own is much easier. And less strenuous."

"So I do have a lot to learn."

"This was a good start. I see you like to use fire. Perhaps we could expand beyond your walls and balls of flame."

Cinder took a moment to consider the idea... but then she had a better one. "Mando, can we do some hand-to-hand instead?"

Djarin was taken aback by this. "Now?" he asked. "Don't you want to learn more about your powers?"

"I do, but this was the reason I was taken in the first place. My Aura broke, and I was ready to fight without it. But someone hit me from behind." Cinder got into a fighting stance. "I need to get my body stronger before I can consider my powers."

"...In that case, it sounds like a good idea." Djarin turned back to Ozpin. "If you don't-"

"I don't mind at all. This may actually help me learn more about Cinder." Ozpin stepped back to the wall and Djarin prepared to fight.

"One more thing," Cinder said. "Don't hold back."

"...I won't."

Cinder rushed to the Mandalorian, sending a kick to his chest. Djarin caught her leg and lifted it up, planning to swipe her other leg. But Cinder jumped on her other leg and kicked his side. Once he let go, Cinder crouched and charged again.

Djarin was quick to recover and he grabbed Cinder's fist. Honoring her wish, Djarin didn't hold back as he sent a fist at her cheek. Cinder stumbled, but was quick to catch his next fist. But once she caught it, her arm moved back, she was struggling to keep it back.

Djarin activated his flamethrower, and Cinder's reflexes kicked in. She immediately dropped to the floor and swiped Djarin's right leg. He stumbled, but didn't fall. Nevertheless, Cinder was able to send a quick fist to his neck, careful to avoid the Beskar.

Djarin backed up, but was able to block each quick punch she sent his way. He grabbed her left fist and prepared to catch her second one. But Cinder sent an uppercut under his helmet instead.

Cinder had been caught in that trick a few times before, when she trained with Djarin in Anima. But now, Cinder planned her next attack carefully. Her hand was starting to bleed, but she still prepared to attack.

A cane in her path made her stop.

Djarin and Cinder looked back to see Ozpin blocking their path, ending the spar. "Impressive," he admitted. "Most impressive."

"We've been training like this for a while," Djarin said. "We had to build up her strength through exercise, but her speed is natural." He looked back at Cinder when he gave Ozpin the summary of her training, and his eyes landed on her hand. "Cinder, you're bleeding."

"Oh," Cinder said while looking at her hand. "I must have scratched it on your helmet. I'm fine."

"Fine?" Ozpin asked in shock. "Young lady, you scratched your hand on metal. And your father struck you in the face."

"I know. When we trained like this, it hurt at first. But now, I'm used to a few bruises and cuts."

"I only stopped when she asked me to or when she was hurt badly," said Djarin. "I was taught that it's important to learn to fight when your Aura broke."

"I learned that, too." Cinder rubbed her cheek. "Your enemy isn't going to wait for your Aura to build itself again."

"..."

Ozpin had found some surprising wisdom from the Mandalorian and Cinder. He was concerned about how her hand-to-hand combat with a Mandalorian was, but he could tell Djarin was no child-beater. And the training seemed to have good results. A child, no older than ten, still standing after a fight like that?

"Mr. Djarin," Ozpin finally spoke. "While you're staying here, and while Cinder continues her training, what are your plans?"

"I was hoping to continue bounty hunting," Djarin responded. "I can pay you with the money I earn, if that's what you're wondering."

"There's no need to pay. But I may know a way for you to work while staying close to Cinder."

"What is it?"

"Well, you seem to have taught your daughter well. Do you believe you can teach things like this to other people?"

Author's notes: hey everyone, hope you're all doing good. Sorry I haven't updated this in a while, I got a little sidetracked. But you should see updates every week now. Hope you enjoy!

TheCourtofTalons · Aug 1, 2023

Chapter 22: The Teacher

"I must say, that's an elegant design."

"Thank you. I've only done this once, I didn't think beyond the idea."

Cinder and Ozpin were in the underground room again, where she could train her powers. As a start, Ozpin asked Cinder what else she could do. Rather than showing feats of strength and power, Cinder showed the Headmaster the little tricks she learned. Once she showed him her small use of ice at her hand, Cinder used her fire to burn the air and re-create the glass shoe she made at Korkie's party.

"Truly, these 'tricks' are impressive, Cinder," said Ozpin. "Now, I want you to try and expand them. What you've done so far is useful, but it will be better to use it to defend yourself. Have you considered how to do this?"

"Well, there was one time when I used my Semblance to think outside the box," Cinder said, recalling her time in Vacuo. "I was able to turn sand into glass knives by heating it. Then I was able to use my powers to do it with the air."

"That's very creative. Try it again, using your fire and the air."

Cinder held out her hand, and pictured a knife instead of a shoe. The air slowly turned into embers, and the embers combined into a new form. Sitting in the palm of her hand was a glass shard.

"Very good," said Ozpin. "In time, this process will be faster. If you like, you could try to do the same with ice."

"Well... I don't think I can." Cinder threw the glass knife at the wall and watched it stick out. "Fire was one of the first powers I used, and I've built on it a lot. Ice has been a challenge for me."

"Then we should build on that." Ozpin moved out of her way and continued to instruct the child. "Now, while all Maidens are capable of using their new found powers as soon as they receive them, their initial use is just the tip of the iceberg."

"So that's why my fire can come naturally to me."

"Talent without training is nothing, Cinder. Maidens who were young and inexperienced suffered from accidents and injuries that would have been lethal if they were inflicted on a common person. That's why we're here now, for you to gain experience."

"I'll be careful, then."

"Good. Now, I want you to try to use ice the same way you use any of your powers. Visualize the ice, feel the cold of it connect to your soul. Once you feel it, externalize it."

Cinder understood what Ozpin meant. This was how she could use fire so easily. It was said that a person's Aura was a manifestation of their soul. But now, Cinder's connection to her soul had been amplified with the power of the Fall Maiden. She could feel warm inside with fire, feel the wind give her goosebumps, and the lightning send painless jolts throughout her body.

But the cold didn't spread throughout her body. It only manifested on her hand, so she created another knife like Ozpin asked. Only, the knife was much shorter.

Ozpin looked at the knife very carefully. "Good. But it seems the ice has a weak connection to your soul."

Cinder sighed. "It does. I can feel the elements inside me, but they don't hurt. Instead, I feel like they give me life. But ice only manifests on my hands."

"It will take time and energy. Even now, you can expand on your fire, make it do other things. Perhaps we could learn how to defend yourself with your powers rather than creating means of attacking your enemies."

"That... sounds like a good idea." Cinder liked the idea of how the Maiden powers could defend her and others rather than attacking and destroying. After all, from what she heard from her book, a Maiden was supposed to give new life to the surrounding nature.

"Now, have you ever defended yourself or anyone else before?"

"I used my wind to stop a wave of fire from burning my father and friends. It hurt, but it worked."

"Very good. It's very rare for a Maiden to control elements that are caused externally rather than internally, so it would be wise for you to know your own strength."

"What about my fire? I could use it to melt ice, couldn't I?"

"True, but it's also possible for the flame to reach the melting point of metal. Bullets, knives, you could reduce them to a puddle. And since you prefer to use fire, we can start there."

Before they could start, the elevator door opened to reveal Glynda with the Mandalorian. Cinder walked up to her father with a smile.

"I waited upstairs for her like you asked," said Djarin, who hugged Cinder when she walked up to him.

"You said you wanted to discuss something with me, sir?" asked Glynda.

"I do, Glynda," Ozpin said as he walked up to the clan of two. "Over the weekend, I've been training Cinder to see what she can do with her powers at the moment. But I've also seen them train together."

"I see. And has she been to able to learn more?"

"She has. And so have I. Which is why I think it would be wise for Mr. Djarin here to assist you in your class."

"Assist me?" Glynda looked back at Djarin but also saw Cinder giving her an unfriendly stare. So, she turned back to Ozpin. "With all due respect, I don't believe I need any help."

"I would normally agree, but these two have trained in a way I believe to be essential."

"Which is?"

"Fighting without their Auras."

"Without-?!" Glynda turned back to the Mandalorian. "Are you insane? She's only a child!"

"So was I when I learned to fight. Even without our Auras, we were expected to train in hand-to-hand combat." Djarin looked down at Cinder. "I've only stopped when she asked me to or when she was hurt badly. Because of our training, she's more than capable of defending herself."

"But this is inhumane!"

Cinder moved forward and gave Glynda a piece of her mind. "Couldn't you say the same about fighting the Grimm? Or against Salem's forces? You can't expect anyone to stop fighting when their Aura is broken."

"..."

"This was the best thing Mando could do for me, and I'm grateful. I mean, I still have to get stronger, but I'm not the same girl I was when he found me."

Glynda was about to answer her, but Ozpin stopped her. "She has a point, Glynda," he said. "I saw them train together this weekend, and they certainly know what they're doing." He put a hand on her shoulder. "Mr. Djarin wants to focus this aspect on just-hand-to-hand combat with our students. They won't use their weapons, and the only injuries they'll have will be a few bruises here and there."

"...You really want to do this?" Glynda asked the Mandalorian.

"I do," he answered.

"And you believe this will help our students grow?"

"I have no doubt."

Glynda looked back to Ozpin, who simply nodded. She sighed, and gave Djarin her answer. "Alright. But while you're doing this, I'll be in the room with you at all times. If I believe things will get out of hand, I will put a stop to them."

"...Understood."

Glynda's first class of the day began with first year students arriving at 11:15 in the morning. Multiple students were sitting in rows of chairs above a large, flat area. This was where Glynda did most of her teaching. First, she would begin with a small lecture and let two students come to the large area to begin their combat. Once the battle was finished, Glynda would describe each combatant's flaws and improvements. Once the first fight was over, two more students would come and fight. The process would continue until class was over. While students were required to wear school uniforms, which consisted of black suits with a red tie and black blouses with a red skirt, Glynda's combat class let them wear their casual attire.

Glynda walked up to the flat area and began her lesson. "Good morning, everyone," she said in her normal, strict voice.

The chatter from the students ceased immediately as Glynda continued to speak. "Today's class will be a little... different than usual. My syllabus stated that we would be conducting hand-to-hand combat in two weeks. But, Professor Ozpin has seen it fit to advance my schedule and have you train with both your weapons and hand-to-hand."

The students wordlessly understood and accepted the change in plans. Some were even excited, and began throwing a few fake jabs to show their enthusiasm.

"Now, that won't be the only thing changing in my class," Glynda continued. "Professor Ozpin has also hired an assistant for this class. After two of you conclude your usual combat lesson, he will be taking over." The students understood again, and didn't say a word. Glynda took this as a sign to continue with her lesson. "Now, then. Let's begin with our lesson." She took out her Scroll and began to look at a list of her students. "How about... Mr. Jay and Mr. Blut?"

Two male students, one wearing a blue T-shirt with jeans and another wearing a red shirt with black pants, made their way to the area. Once they reached Professor Goodwitch, they stood on separate ends of the area. "Ready?" the Professor asked. The students pulled out their weapons, a sword with a blue handle and an axe with a red blade. The lights began to dim, and Glynda spoke again. "Begin."

The students charged at each other with their weapons ready. Once they clashed, sparks flew for one moment. The students locked the hold for five seconds before the axe rose up. While one would think Blut lost his weapon, the student had a strategy behind this. Jay was still pushing on the sword, and the force caused him to lose his balance. Once he did, Jay was caught in a headlock.

Blut applied pressure, forcing Jay to block out the pain with his Aura. But then, the ground under him began to feel cold. Wind began to form under the students, blowing both into the air. Jay had used his Semblance to get in the air, and landed on his back to make sure Blut took the brunt of the impact.

Once he did, Jay punched his opponent's ribs and picked up his sword. The axe was out of Blut's reach, so he had to use his Aura to protect him from Jay while he reached for it. Once he did, he blocked one more strike from his opponent. But Jay used his sword to cut Blut's hand and make him lose his axe. Once Jay delivered three more slashes with his weapon, a bell sounded and the lights began to brighten.

"And that's the match," Glynda said. "Very good use of your Semblance, Mr. Jay."

"Thank you, Professor," the student said.

"Mr. Blut, your strategy was impressive, but it left you without your weapon. If you lose your weapon and your first plan backfires, make sure you have a backup plan. Or consider changing your strategy."

"Yes, Ma'am," said Blut, who was standing back up.

"Now, in a tournament style match, the official may call the match once one student's Aura is in the red. But now..." Glynda saw the two students approach back to their seats, but she stopped them. "Mr. Jay, Mr. Blut, please stay where you are." The students stopped walking. "You two will be conducting your hand-to-hand now."

"But my Aura's in the red," Blut protested.

"Exactly."

Glynda and the students turned to look at the source of the new voice. The students gasped at the sight of a Mandalorian walking up to them. The students above gasped as well and began to whisper to themselves.

"Settle down, everyone," Glynda ordered. The whispers stopped and everyone turned to the Professor. "Now, this is the second chance I mentioned earlier." She gestured to the Mandalorian. "This is Mr. Djarin, and yes, he is a Mandalorian. He recently came to Beacon Academy because Professor Ozpin believes his experience in the field and his... beliefs may be of assistance to you all. I will stay here to observe his lessons, but Mr. Djarin..." Glynda turned to the Mandalorian. "You have the floor."

Djarin walked to where Glynda was and looked at the two students who finished their combat. "As I said, I know your Aura is low. But that doesn't matter now," he started. Djarin looked up at the crowd. "I understand the Vytal Festival will commence soon, and that some of you will be participating in its combat tournament."

"..."

Djarin took their silence as an understanding, so he continued to speak. "Can anyone tell me the rules for a combatant's elimination in the tournament?"

Everyone was silent again, but a few hands raised in the air. Djarin chose a girl whose hand stood alone amongst the students in the rightmost corner of the room. "Go ahead, Ms..."

"Rainart, sir," the student said as she stood up. "And regarding your question about elimination, there are two rules. The first is if a combatant is knocked out of the arena, and the second is if their Aura levels fall-"

"Fall in a certain range," Djarin finished. "That's right." As the student sat back down, Djarin continued to speak. "Now, teachers in all the academies believe its safe for students to fight in their combat lessons and tournament duels with this rule. While I can guarantee following this rule will prevent injuries in class, this will not protect you once you graduate. Strictly relying on your Aura and Semblance in a fight has consequences that prevent you from reaching your true potential, or worse, losing your life to the Grimm."

The students looked at each other again, some of them nodding in agreement.

"Once your Aura breaks, your body will take hits you would normally ignore or block out. This leaves you vulnerable and liable to a faster defeat. If you are not prepared to fight when your Aura breaks on you, then you are not prepared to fight at all." The students whispered again, but Djarin quickly silenced them by talking to the two students with him. "That's why you are still here. You will begin your hand-to-hand combat, without engaging your Auras."

The students quickly turned to each other with dropped jaws. Once they recovered from their shock, they turned back to the Mandalorian. "But, sir, we might hurt each other!" Jay protested.

"I know," Djarin responded. "In time, your bodies will grow stronger, begin to be accustomed to the pain. Then, you'll be prepared to handle the Grimm once your Aura breaks. That time starts now."

Jay and Blut looked back to Glynda, who simply nodded. So the two reluctantly raised their fists and prepared themselves.

"...Begin," Goodwitch reluctantly ordered.

The fight was over before it even began.

Both students were bleeding and out of breath. Blut was hunched over while Jay was on the ground, having trouble getting back up. Glynda declared that Blut was the "winner," since he was still standing. But after that, everyone was having trouble finding the right words to describe the fight.

Everyone except the Mandalorian.

Djarin walked in front of Goodwitch and spoke. "This... is the result I was expecting," he declared. "Before we began, both of these men were ready to fight, the only damage inflicted on them was drained Aura. Now you can see how no proper defense had consequences." He walked over to Blut. "How do you feel?"

"Not... too good," he confessed. "I can't... feel my hands."

Djarin noted his observation and didn't bother asking Jay how he was. The student couldn't engage his Aura to heal everything, he couldn't even stand up without help. So, the Mandalorian turned back. "Professor Goodwitch saw it fit to end the match, but you won't find this kind of mercy from the Grimm. I'd suggest you think about this when you come back next class."

"Class dismissed," Goodwitch ordered. The students above them left, but two came down to help Jay get on his feet and take him away. When everyone left, Goodwitch turned back to Djarin and said something unexpected. "Thank you... for letting me stop the match," she said.

"You're in charge," Djarin retorted. "I'm just your assistant."

"I still find these lessons to be dangerous."

"This is a dangerous world we live in. A trained Huntress like yourself should know that."

"..."

Djarin began to walk towards the door. "When will the next class be?"

"After lunch," Glynda answered, remembering one key detail about this lesson. "You'll be helping me with third year students. Maybe they'll have the results you're looking for."

"Maybe. Or maybe we'll need to start at square one."

"..."

One week later

"And that's the match."

A teenage girl began to catch her breath at the sound of those words. After a few more seconds, she helped her opponent, a boy with red hair, off the ground. Once he stood up, he began to move his left arm in a semicircle in an effort to shake off his pain.

"Jeez," he said. "Nice work, Adora."

"Thanks, Jesse," Adora said. "How's your arm?"

"All good. You landed some good hits, I was surprised."

"So was I."

The students turned back to the Mandalorian who began and ended their match. He turned to Adora as he continued to speak. "You're getting faster with your strike, Adora. And your defense has gotten better."

"I think I'm staring to get the hang of all this," Adora said as she looked at her hands. "You wanted us to see that a new kind of defense is just as necessary as offense."

"That's one of the things you need to learn, you're right." Djarin turned to Jesse. "When you started your fight, I could see you were calm and collected. It's good to have a level head, but I could see you were expecting all of Adora's strikes."

"I was," Jesse confessed. "I've always been her sparing partner, and I was expecting most of her moves."

Djarin looked back to the students watching him. "Never underestimate your enemy. That was Jesse's first mistakes. Adora has been learning a lot in the past week, and her efforts made her the victor of today's final match. Hone your defense over the weekend, and we'll see how much you've improved. Dismissed."

The students above the Mandalorian all stood up and left, with Adora and Jesse following them. When Djarin left the room, he found Professor Ozpin waiting by the door. "May I speak with you for a moment?" he asked. Djarin nodded and began to walk the halls of the academy. "How would you say things have been going?"

"I just came out of a successful class of third year students," Djarin noted, following to Ozpin's right. Some passing students stared at him for a moment, but Djarin ignored them as he continued to talk. "I thought they would struggle like the first and second year students, but they seemed to understand what we were doing after a week of class. Now, the third year students are able to get back up after taking a good hit, and they've improved on their defense since the first day."

"So you believe your methods have contributed to Beacon's academic curriculum and the future generation of Huntsmen and Huntresses?"

"I do."

Ozpin stopped walking. "Mr. Djarin, I'm glad to hear that you're making progress. And from what I just saw, some of the students seem to think this idea was for the best. But I'm afraid not all of your students are learning very well."

"If you're talking about the first and second years, I agree they've been slow. But the Foundlings I grew up with were trained at a much younger age than them. Once they reached the age of your students, they were strong enough to train for almost ten minutes straight."

"So you feel that my students have... fallen behind?"

"In a way. With all due respect, I feel that first year students have to be the first to learn the importance of not relying on their Auras."

"I agree. But my problem is not that they're struggling. My problem is that they're rebelling."

"What do you mean?"

Ozpin slipped a hand into his suit. "The reason Glynda wasn't with you today was because she was speaking with me." He removed his hand and took out an envelope. "She found this in the mailbox on her door, its from an... extensive amount of first year students."

"..."

The Mandalorian took the envelope and opened it. There were two pieces of paper inside, and Djarin pulled out the first one. It was a list of names, divided into four rows of signatures. "These are your first year students?" he asked.

"A vast majority of them, yes. This is a petition, Mr. Djarin. I haven't seen the students take an action like this in a long time."

"What are they petitioning?"

"You should... read the other paper."

Djarin took out the second piece of paper, which revealed itself to be some kind of letter.

"Professor Goodwitch,

The second paper inside this envelope is a petition made by the first year students of Beacon Academy. This petition is a demonstration of our disappointment and disapproval of the new teacher at Beacon Academy, the Mandalorian who you said Professor Ozpin hired. You have seen the extensive 'training' he puts us through, and how student after student has walked away from your class. We have come together to show that the way this man thinks is both dangerous and reckless, and it is our goal to see that he no longer teaches at Beacon Academy. If this does not happen, we are prepared to present our case to the Vale Council, who we know oversee the events of Beacon Academy."

*POOF*

The petition and the letter had just turned to ash and cinders as Cinder used her Semblance. "This is outrageous!" she yelled at the top of her lungs. "It's unfair!"

Djarin sighed at Cinder's response to what Ozpin showed him. Of course he was going to tell her about his problem, he just didn't want to see her get so upset. He was upset as well, and he knew something had to be done. He just didn't know what to do.

"Now, Cinder," Ozpin began. Djarin brought Ozpin back to his room to discuss their problem in private. "There's no need to get upset."

"Of course there is! They can't take his job away, he's trying to help!"

"I know. That was my original goal when I asked your father to teach with Glynda. I didn't think students speaking out against us would be one of the results of our efforts."

"So, it's real?" Djarin asked calmly. "The students can go to the Vale Council about this?"

"If they feel the need to. They're simply expressing their freedom of speech and freedom to protest. And they're doing a fine job of it."

"And we can all imagine how that will go," Cinder included. "They'll say Mandalorians are 'dangerous' and 'reckless,' just like these stupid students said!"

"Cinder, please." Djarin put a hand on her shoulder. "We'll figure this out, but you need to calm down. Being angry won't get us anywhere."

Cinder took a deep breath and sat down on the bed. "I'm sorry, I just... I hate being treated like something I'm not."

"Cinder, this doesn't have anything to do with you," Ozpin said.

"Ozpin's right," Djarin agreed. "They're not trying to attack you, they're going after me."

"But Mando, don't you remember what I said when we escaped Atlas? How an attack on one Mandalorian is an attack on all?"

"...I remember, but-"

"I meant what I said, and I said what I meant." Cinder stood up. "If they're going to try and come after you, they'll have to come after me too."

"..."

Ozpin was both shocked and impressed at Cinder's triumphant display of loyalty. He had seen it in other students and Mandalorians before, specifically from within their own teams and clans. But he had never seen a young girl so willing to stand up for her father, even though the fight wasn't hers to begin with.

While Djarin shared Ozpin's sentiments, he still felt unsure about this. "Cinder, it's not that I don't appreciate you wanting to help me, I just don't want you getting involved with something that's not involving you."

"I get that, but I really think I can help." Cinder turned to the Headmaster. "Professor, what will happen to us if the students go to the Vale Council?"

"I'd imagine they'll agree with the students and I'll have no choice but to ask your father to step down from his position," Ozpin explained. "Worst case scenario, they may want me to ask him to leave the school grounds. And while I'm more than willing to continue our training and have you stay, this will pose a problem."

"I agree," said Djarin. "I know you'll do everything you can to protect her, but I don't want to leave her at Beacon alone. Wherever she goes, I go."

"The same goes for me," said Cinder.

Djarin nodded and asked another question. "What if we present our side of the story? The advanced students are learning, and maybe we can ask them to help us show that I'm not a threat."

"That could work. I could see some rules prohibiting you from teaching the first and second year students, but that may be for the best."

"I still think the first year students should learn."

The rest of the conversation seemed to fade out for Cinder. She agreed with her father, and it was her idea to start with the first year students. She was living proof that her father's lessons were for the best, and she had no idea why the other students disagreed. Sure, she felt sore and had a couple of bruises afterwards, but it helped her prepare for her fights with the insurrection and the Saxon Clan. She didn't have a lot of experience with Grimm, but Cinder knew the same concept applied. Maybe the Vale Council did need a demonstration.

Or maybe... the first year students should see one too.

Cinder turned back to Djarin and Ozpin. "I know what we need to do."

Many first year students made their way to Glynda's classroom, talking amongst themselves.

"So, I heard Professor Goodwitch found our note," one black haired boy in an orange shirt said.

"Yeah, and she showed it to Professor Ozpin," said a blonde girl in a white T-shirt. "And how much you wanna bet he showed it to you-know-who?"

"You think this will help though?" another boy asked. "All of this could have been for nothing."

"It's not like they're going to punish us," the same girl pointed out. "We're just students displaying our right to petition, expressing our freedom of speech!" She raised her fist in the air. "And we deserve to have our voices be heard!"

"Oh, jeez, here we go again."

"Always the activist, aren't you?"

The girl put her hand down and looked to her friends. "Come on, guys. You know that I'm right."

"Yeah, we know. We just don't want any unwanted attention, that's all."

"Why not? Attention is good. That's how we get support."

"Yeah, but we're just trying to get Ozpin's attention."

"Well, it worked. Be proud of yourselves, this was a group effort."

"Let's just see how it goes. Then, we'll decide if we can be proud."

All of the students entered Glynda's classroom and sat in their seats. After a few minutes, they were surprised to see the Mandalorian walk in front of them with a little girl rather than Professor Goodwitch.

"Before we begin, I'd like to address something," said Djarin. "Professor Ozpin has brought to my attention that most of you... disagree with my lessons and have signed a petition to have this class changed once again."

Some of the students gulped and pulled their collars, starting to feel nervous about the Mandalorian's reaction.

"I understand your reasons behind this," Djarin continued. "So, I'd like to know if anyone in here signed the petition."

The blonde in the T-shirt was the first to raise her hand, and a few other students slowly followed.

"I see." Djarin had a feeling there were more students than this, but they didn't want him to know. "Based on the first signature, I believe I know who started the petition. Is there a 'Corvo Nightshade' here?"

A student wearing a purple hoodie with black hair rose from his seat and spoke. "You're right. I was the first to sign it."

"Could you come down here, please?"

"..."

Corvo began to make his way down to the area. Other students began to whisper protests to him, having a bad feeling about the idea. But Corvo continued to walk down, not afraid of what would happen. Once he was in the area, he stood two feet away from the Mandalorian.

"You believe my lessons aren't suitable here?" Djarin asked.

"I do," Corvo answered. "Every evening, students are supposed to spar before dinner. Ever since you started teaching, members of my team have been struggling to even throw a punch. And when Professor Port wants us to demonstrate our weapons against Grimm, other first year students can't do it."

"..."

Corvo continued to stand by his point, and Djarin was silent. He understood his point of view, even he had trouble some days during his Aura-less training. But Djarin was able to grow stronger because of it, and he felt every student needed to do the same. So, he made his choice.

"I am prepared to respect and accommodate to your request," he said to the students.

They all began to whisper among themselves, surprised that he was willing to do this.

"See?" the blonde said to her friends. "I told you this would work!"

The voices stopped when Djarin spoke again. "I can teach the advanced students rather than-"

"I think we were clear earlier," said another student, who bravely rose from his seat. "You shouldn't be teaching here at all."

The Mandalorian briefly turned to the standing student before looking back at Corvo. "...Alright. As I said, I'll respect your demands. But on one condition."

Corvo raised an eyebrow, but he had an idea where this was going. "You want me to fight you," he said with confidence.

"No. You're going to fight my first student."

Everyone began to whisper amongst themselves, and Corvo was also confused. "You mean... one of the first year students?"

"No. My daughter."

Just as he said that, the young girl stepped forward and stopped next to the Mandalorian. He put a hand on her shoulder and spoke again. "This is my daughter, Cinder. She's ten years old and we've been training together for weeks, even after my classes. After she heard about your petition, she decided to help share what I've been teaching you."

The row of students suddenly erupted, united by one word. "WHAAAAAT?!"

After the cry vanished into the air, Corvo spoke again. "You want me to fight a kid?"

"No," said Cinder. "I want you to fight a kid."

"You... can't be serious."

Cinder crackled one of her knuckles and asked a question. "How serious do I look?"

"No. No way." Corvo looked up at Djarin. "I'm not going to fight a child without an Aura. If she wants to, then that's her problem."

"What's the matter? Scared you'll lose?"

Corvo just sighed and looked down. "Look, kid. I don't know what your dad taught you, but this is a Huntsmen Academy. You know I could really hurt you, right?"

"Not without your Aura you can't," Cinder argued.

"Yeah, but what about after? I bet you don't even have an Aura."

Cinder grabbed Corvo's arm and activated her Semblance. The student felt his arm burn and he pulled away. His Aura quickly healed the burn, and Cinder looked up at Djarin. "Looks like he lost his bet."

Djarin shrugged and looked back at Corvo. "We presented the idea to Professor Ozpin, and he approved. If you beat my daughter in Aura-less combat, I promise you will never see me again."

"There's no way Ozpin would-"

Djarin pulled out a Scroll and handed it to the student. He read a text from Ozpin that said he approved of the idea and would respect the outcome. There was just one more thing that would happen.

"He wants to watch this?" Corvo asked.

"Yes." Djarin took the Scroll back and walked to the edge of the room. Earlier, he put a tripod in the room which he could place the Scroll on and make a live video that Ozpin would watch.

"So what's the catch?"

"No catch." Djarin turned around. "If you win, I'll stop teaching and you'll never see me again. But if Cinder wins, you and every other student will drop the petition and let me continue my lessons."

"Say I really hurt your daughter. Will you take responsibility for what happens?"

"You won't face any consequences." The Mandalorian walked over to Corvo and extended his hand. "Do we have a deal?"

"..."

Corvo looked up at the other students, who began to stand and applaud. They saw no risk or danger in the proposed deal, and were calling out to Corvo to take a chance.

So Corvo shook the Mandalorian's hand. "Alright, you have a deal," he said. "But just to make sure nobody cheats, let's break our Auras rather than not engage them."

Djarin turned back to Cinder, who nodded. Corvo went to the other side of the room and began to use his Semblance, which was strengthening his biceps on a whim. Cinder began to warm her hands so she couldn't use her Semblance, and she made a mental note not to use any of her powers.

Before the fight began, Djarin kneeled down to Cinder. He and Cinder talked about this last night, but he had to make sure she liked the idea she presented. "Are you sure you want to do this?" he asked one more time. "He's right, you could get hurt."

"I'm sure," Cinder replied. "This is something I need to do. Not just for you, but I really need to improve my hand-to-hand. Please, let me do this."

Djarin smiled under his helmet and rubbed her head. "Just be careful, okay?"

"Okay."

After another minute, Corvo's Aura broke along with Cinder's. They each got in a fighting stance. With that, Djarin officially started the fight. "Begin."

Cinder rushed to Corvo and sent her right fist to his face. He blocked it easily, which was what Cinder expected him to do. Cinder usually sent two fists to the Mandalorian's face when they trained, and she learned they would be easy for him to block. So, she made a strategy to distract her opponent with a false strike and send her real attack to Corvo's stomach.

The punch made Corvo lower his head and let Cinder strike him again with an uppercut. He immediately recovered and stopped underestimating the young girl. Once he did, he grabbed her next fist and swung her in the air, letting her go after half a spin. Cinder quickly recovered and charged again.

"Not bad," a student whispered to his friend. "So, she's had a little training."

"I don't think it matters," his friend said. "Corvo knows what he's doing, and if that kid get hurt, it will help us see that he really isdangerous."

Corvo dodged more punches and was able to grab one of Cinder's fists and squeeze. Cinder kneeled at the pain, but used this to kick Corvo in the side. He slightly moved, but it wasn't enough to break his grip. So Cinder pulled on his arm and kicked his leg. Corvo's body moved down, and Cinder hit him with her head.

Corvo let go and Cinder began to shake her hand to get feeling back. He could hear students gasp at this, and this caused the student's blood to boil. Once it did, Corvo let his anger out and sent a fist towards Cinder. She quickly pushed it away, but Corvo kicked her stomach and pushed her back. She stumbled and failed to notice a fist hit her face. Once it did, Cinder hit the ground.

Djarin was about to stop the match and declare that he lost, but Cinder slowly began to get back up. Corvo ran to Cinder and swung his leg, but Cinder moved out of the way and grabbed his leg. She began to push it up to make Corvo hop on one leg. The child knew she could hit Corvo's other leg to make him fall on the ground.

But Cinder had a better idea.

*CRACK*

"OOOOHHHH!" The students yelled together at the sight of Cinder hitting her opponent in the groin. Even Djarin recoiled, surprised that Cinder knew that move.

The match ended when Corvo fell to the ground and felt a kick to his face, knocking him unconscious.

"..."

Cinder stood over a bleeding Corvo, victorious and feeling very triumphant. The rest of the students didn't make a sound as Djarin put a hand on his daughter's shoulder and spoke. "Now that I have your attention, I hope you all learned something today. Like I said, my daughter is only ten years old and she's been training for weeks with me. Since a deal was made and you're all witnesses, I can safely say you'll all be learning from me more often. And if you're lucky, you'll have a fraction of Cinder's strength before you graduate. Dismissed."

The students silently walked out of the classroom, unable to comprehend what they just saw. Out of all the students who left, only two helped Corvo stand up. They looked back at Cinder and opened their mouths, but no words came out. So they took Corvo and left.

"Good job!" Djarin said as he kneeled down to Cinder. "I knew you could do it!" Before he could say anything else, the Scroll on the metal stick made a noise. So the Mandalorian teleported himself to the Scroll and picked it up. He saw a message from Ozpin, who indeed saw the whole thing.

"I look forward to hearing about your next lessons."

The Mandalorian smiled at the message and walked back to Cinder, who was holding her hands on her nose. "Take a look at this," he said. Djarin reached for her hand and was about to walk Cinder outside. "Looks like you just-"

"Ow!"

Djarin quickly moved his hand back. Putting down the Scroll, he kneeled down to Cinder. "...What's wrong?"

"..."

Djarin took both his hands and gently moved Cinder's hands away from her face. Once he did, he saw that Cinder's nose was bleeding. And it looked like it had been bruised. Djarin's joy at Cinder's victory immediately turned into worry and regret. "Oh, no..."

"...Lucky shot," Cinder said as she wiped her nose.

The Mandalorian quickly stood up and took her hand. "Come on. We'll get you looked at."

"This may be a little uncomfortable, but it will stop the bleeding."

"Thank-" Cinder immediately stopped talking at the sound of her voice. Or rather, her different voice.

"Oh, and you may talk a little funny as well," said the woman who was looking at Cinder's nose. "But don't worry, it will only stay in for a few minutes."

The Mandalorian stifled a laugh at the sound before speaking. "Thank you," he said.

Just as he said, Djarin took Cinder to the campus nurse for her nose. Luckily, it was just a nosebleed and not a broken nose. So, the nurse just put a tissue in both her nostrils to stop the bleeding. But even so, Cinder seemed to be discouraged about her situation.

"Thank you, Cinder."

Her spirits lifted up at the sound of her father's gratitude. She looked up at him in confusion.

"I think you just saved my job," Djarin continued. "Maybe now, the students will start to understand the gravity of their situation."

"Mr. Djarin, I heard about what you're teaching our students," the nurse said. "Is it true that you want them to fight withouttheir Auras?"

"Yes. The Grimm or your enemy isn't going to wait for you to rebuild it. Cinder and I have been training like this for a while, and she wanted to help me teach this lesson to the other students."

"Well, I didn't see any bruises or anything else on her. How did the fight go?"

"She did great. Her opponent landed a lucky shot, but she beat that student right there."

The nurse turned to see Corvo, who was brought in by his friends. His face was swelling and he seemed to have multiple bruises under his shirt. She was wondering how this happened, but now she had her answer.

"You did?!" The nurse turned to Cinder. "All by yourself?!" Cinder nodded. "My word, I can't believe I would live to see the day!"

"..."

Cinder just looked down at the floor, and dried her eyes.

The nurse looked back at Djarin. "I'm sorry, did I-?"

"No, it's not you." Djarin moved closer to Cinder. "She's been... harsh on herself, ever since we've been training harder. She won that fight, but I think she's upset about that student landing a hit in her." He kneeled to Cinder and gently picked up her head by moving her chin. "Cinder, is that right?"

"..."

Cinder didn't speak, but nodded.

"Cinder, you shouldn't be doing this to yourself. You have to understand not only the age difference between you and the students here, but also how strong they are." Djarin smiled under his helmet while he was talking. "It's good you want to get better and stronger, but don't forget what you did today. You did great, and I'm proud of you. And I guarantee when you're older and just like everyone else, I'll still be proud of the fighter you'll become."

Cinder dried her eyes again and smiled. She then pulled the Mandalorian in a hug, one which he reciprocated.

The nurse smiled at the display of affection, and spoke once they broke the hug. "My dear, I wasn't there to see all of this happen, but I think I can vouch for your father based on the student behind you."

Djarin suddenly remembered something. "Cinder and Professor Ozpin asked me to record the fight, I can show-" He was reaching for his belt while talking, but couldn't find the Scroll he was looking for. "I left the Scroll in the classroom. Would you mind-?"

"I can watch her just fine," the nurse promised. "She'll only need a few more minutes here."

"Thank you." He turned to Cinder, who nodded at him. With that, he left the room.

But just as he did, Glynda Goodwitch walked down the hall. His back was to her, so he didn't notice her behind him. Glynda was hoping to ask the Mandalorian how the lesson went, and was partially hoping she could take over teaching again. But her new focus was on why he had just come out of the nurse's office.

"Good morning, Professor Goodwitch," said the nurse. "Boy, do I have a story for you."

"Is that so?" Glynda asked as she came inside the office. "Would it have anything to do with-?" She stopped talking when she got a look at Cinder. Even though the young girl looked away, Glynda could see her bruised nose and tissue in the nostrils. "Oh, my... What happened?"

"Oh, she's fine." The nurse walked over to take a look at Cinder. "She just-" The nurse stopped talking when Cinder immediately shook her head. The nurse was confused at first, but respected her wishes. "Actually, she doesn't really want to talk about it."

"..."

Glynda took a look at Cinder, noticing her unwillingness to talk. She thought it was still the child's stubbornness, but then she remembered seeing the Mandalorian leave the nurse's office. Putting the pieces together caused a scowl to form on Glynda's face and her hands to turn into fists. She immediately turned heel and walked away.

"Professor, where are you-?" The nurse didn't get a chance to finish her question as Glynda picked up her pace. "Oh, dear. I wouldn't want to be the person she's angry at."

As Djarin made his way back to the classroom, he couldn't help but feel disappointed in himself. He knew Cinder fighting an older student would be dangerous, but he was willing to let it happen so he could save his position at Beacon. He knew it was Cinder's idea and that she wanted to do it, but he could have told her that she wouldn't do it.

But instead, he let her fight and get hurt.

The Mandalorian had been Cinder's father for only a week and he already made a mistake. He was having a hard time thinking how it could be different from the other times he let Cinder down, when he accidentally hurt her feelings. But he knew the only thing to do would be to learn from this failure and do a better job next time.

But even though he had his mind set on this idea, Djarin was wondering what Cinder was thinking. And not just her, Ozpin might think of this situation as a bad idea. He might even talk to Cinder about this privately. And... Cinder might have second thoughts about being his daughter.

The idea haunted Djarin as he made his way into the room and picked up the Scroll off the ground. He turned around to see Glynda walking towards him. "Glynda," he started. "You should know that I-"

Glynda flicked her riding crop, which caused multiple purple projectiles to fly at the Mandalorian. Some hit his arm and armored torso, but Djarin used his Semblance to teleport himself to the other side of the room.

"What are you-?!" Djarin didn't get a chance to finish as chairs from above flew at him. Djarin teleported again, but this time grabbed Glynda's wrist. She immediately fought back with a sharp jab to his throat. He used his Aura to protect himself and back away. It was then that he noticed the soul-shattering scowl formed on her face.

"You hit the girl, I hit you," Glynda spat.

"What?" Djarin asked. He suddenly realized what Glynda was talking about. "No, I didn't-!"

Glynda didn't stop to listen as she continued her assault on the Mandalorian. Djarin dodged more projectiles and tried to fight back. But Glynda was able to use Dust to make certain attacks, such as a purple shield and ice projectiles. The ice hit Djarin, but he let his armor protect him. He could see that Glynda was past the point of reason, so he knew he had to defend himself. So he used the Darksaber to cut the chairs and pieces of the wall the Professor flung at him, but some of her attacks found their mark.

Once his Aura broke, Djarin stopped for a moment to catch his breath. He suddenly realized that Glynda wasn't going to stop there. "What's the matter?!" she yelled. "I thought you wanted students to fight without their Auras!" She sent another projectile at him, with made impact with his arm. Djarin swung the Darksaber at Glynda, but she created another shield to protect her. "I should have never let you stay here!" Glynda continued to scream. "You're a monster! You and all your kind!" Glynda formed a giant spike out of debris and fired it at the Mandalorian. She knew she was exhausting her Aura, but she didn't care. "Abusers, murderers, all of you!"

"I didn't do anything!" Djarin yelled as he swung his blade, making contact with Glynda's flashing Aura. "If you would just listen-!"

"No!" Glynda made her opponent fly across the room. She stood over the Mandalorian, who was slowly getting back up. The fight wasn't over yet, but she could see one more blow could finish it. So, she moved in for the kill by using her Semblance to raise the entire floor into chunks of debris. "I made a promise that if I ever saw another Mandalorian, they wouldn't hurt anyone else," she said. "Well... it's time to live up to that promise."

Glynda began to send all the debris Djarin's way with a yell.

"DAD!"

The rocks stopped just in front of the Mandalorian.

Glynda turned just in time to see Cinder rush towards her with two fists. Her initial shock died down as she generated another Dust shield to protect her. Just as she did, a dark blade cut her crop, breaking it in half. The shield died down, and Cinder punched Glynda in the stomach. Her Aura broke, but Glynda was still standing.

"What do you think you're-?!"

A hand grabbing her shoulder caused Glynda to turn and see Djarin raise a fist and punch her in the face. Her Aura couldn't protect her, and Glynda slammed into a desk from the punch.

Cinder lowered her hands and ran to her father. "Dad, are you okay?!" she screamed as she hugged him. "Why did she attack you?!"

Djarin returned her embrace as he answered. "I'm fine, Cinder, I'm fine."

Glynda began to stand back up. Her Aura couldn't heal her back or the nose she believed to be broken. But she did her best to ignore the pain and focus on Cinder. "He... hits you... hurts you... and you still fight for him?!" she screamed.

"Hit me?!" Cinder yelled as she held her father. "What are you talking about?!"

Djarin had caught his breath and joined Cinder. "You think I'd want to hurt her?! After everything we've been through?!"

The noise had drawn the attention of all the students and some of the faculty.

"Whoa, what happened here?"

"Looks like a fight."

"Holy crap, are they fighting Professor Goodwitch?"

"I think it's that kid again."

"First a student, now her? That's one tough kid."

The banter and shocked faces caused Glynda to calm down. She recognized one of the students as her own, that had Combat Class with her. "What are you talking about?" she demanded.

"Huh?" The student looked confused. But his train of thought returned to him instantly. "Um, his daughter wiped the floor with one of the students. She took a bad hit to the face, but she still won."

"..."

The truth and gravity of the situation weighed down on Glynda as she looked around. The room was destroyed, the students didn't take their eyes off her, and she had just attacked the Mandalorian for something he didn't do. She didn't need to see his face to know he was staring daggers at her. Cinder was holding her father, but was still ready to attack.

"I-" Goodwitch began, but Cinder raised her fists again and prepared to defend herself. But before anyone did anything, Professor Ozpin walked inside.

"Now, now, everyone," he said as he looked to the students. "Perhaps you should find a better place to spend your free period." Everyone left the room without a word, leaving Glynda alone with the Headmaster and the clan of two.

"Ozpin, I-"

"She attacked my dad!" Cinder screamed at the top of her lungs. "He didn't do anything!"

Ozpin's neutral glare didn't fade, but Glynda could clearly hear his disappointment when he spoke. "Glynda... we should talk."

"..."

Glynda left the room without a word, unable to look at the Mandalorian again. But Djarin didn't care if she looked back at him. Right now, all of his attention was on the young girl hugging him. His body was sore, his right arm was hurting, and Cinder's embrace slightly hurt his side.

But Djarin felt like this was one of the happiest days of his life. Today, he knew that Cinder truly saw him as her father.

Cinder just called him "Dad."

"Now armed with the elements, the very powers of nature, and the unimaginable magic of the wizard, the four maidens, Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall, promised to carry on with their journey, using their gifts to aid others, just as they aided him.

One by one, the sisters left. Before they did, they made one final promise.

They promised to return each and every year, to visit their dear friend."

Djarin closed the book, finishing The Story of the Seasons once again. He put the book down on the nightstand and looked down at a smiling Cinder. "I'm surprised you wanted to hear that one again," he confessed. "Knowing you, I bet you'd want to hear every story in this book."

"I do," said Cinder. "But this one's actually my favorite. And I love the way you read it."

Djarin smiled. "Good. I'm glad."

Cinder smiled back at him, but it began to fade. "Dad, I'm sorry about today. I didn't mean-"

"Cinder, it's okay. None of this was your fault. Like I said, you did a great job helping me today. If anything, I should apologize about your nose. How do you feel?"

"It's fine. It stopped hurting around dinner, you don't need to worry about it anymore."

"Good. As for Goodwitch, I think-"

*KNOCK*

*KNOCK*

*KNOCK*

Djarin and Cinder looked up at the room's only door. Djarin got off the bed, put on his helmet, and opened the door. Professor Ozpin stood on the other side with his usual neutral glare. "Good evening, Mr. Djarin," he said. "I understand you've had an... eventful day."

"I have," Djarin replied. He turned to Cinder. "Both of us."

"I was hoping to discuss it with you. May I come in?"

Djarin looked back to Cinder, who was still laying down. "Would you mind if we talk outside? Cinder was just about to-"

"It's okay," Cinder said. "I want to talk about it, too."

Djarin stepped out of Ozpin's way and he entered the room. Ozpin pulled up a seat and turned to Cinder. "First off, I think you'll be happy to know that I spoke with one of the students who began the petition. And after your demonstration, she felt your father's lessons could be useful. I'm sure other students will begin to feel the same way."

"That's good to hear," said Djarin, who walked over to Cinder and rubbed her head. "I couldn't have done it without you."

Cinder said nothing, but she smiled at her father. But her attention refocused on the last part of her day at the academy. "What about Goodwitch?" she asked Ozpin.

"Well, to begin, I'd like to sincerely apologize for her actions. Just like the first night you came here, her actions were completely out of line."

"Where is she now?" Djarin asked.

"Home, in Vale. I've trusted her for years, and while she is one of the best professors at this school, she is not above its rules. I've suspended her without pay for one week."

"With all due respect, Professor, I'm not sure that's good enough. She's attacked me twice now, and I'm worried Cinder may get caught in the crossfire."

"Dad's right," Cinder vouched for Djarin. "I'd stand by his side anytime, anywhere, and against anyone. Including Goodwitch."

Ozpin removed his glasses and rubbed his eyes. "I understand. While I believe her services at Beacon are more than required, I am prepared to restrict her from your presence. She won't be allowed to stay in the same building as you two. If she is, it will be under my watch."

"That sounds fair," said Djarin. He turned to Cinder. "I know you don't like her, but Ozpin is right. This sounds like the safest option."

"Okay," Cinder agreed. "As long as she stays out of our way, I'll stay out of hers."

"Very good." Ozpin stood up. "In that case, I bid you good night." The Headmaster made his way to the door and left the room. But just as he did, Djarin teleported himself to the end of the hall and walked up to him.

"Ozpin, I just have one question," he said. "Why does Professor Goodwitch have it out for the Mandalorians?"

"It's... not her fault, Djarin. Her hate is... justified, really. Perhaps we could talk about this privately."

Djarin moved back to his room and opened the door. "Cinder, I'm going to talk with Ozpin. I'll be back in a little while."

"That's fine. I'm going to bed, anyways." Cinder turned off the lamp at the nightstand. "Good night, Dad."

Djarin smiled one more time at the sound of that word. "Good night, Cinder." He closed the door and looked back to Ozpin. "Can we talk in your office?"

"Of course, maybe we can-"

Djarin put a hand on Ozpin's shoulder and activated his Semblance. In a few moments, they appeared in Ozpin's office.

While Djarin stood still, Ozpin fell over and back into his desk. He dropped his cane and put his hands on the table to recompose himself. After taking a few breaths, he looked back to Djarin. "Please... don't do that again," he requested.

"Sorry." Djarin said as he took a seat. "Now, about Professor Goodwitch."

Ozpin took one more breath before picking up his cane. "Yes. As I was saying, it's not her fault." Ozpin sat down behind his desk and put his cane to the side. "Do you ever wonder why she's here?"

"I'm... sorry?"

"I'm sure you've noticed she is a very skilled woman and her Telekinesis is a powerful Semblance. Normally, it would be for the best if she decided to hone her skills amongst the Grimm rather than stick to teaching."

"I suppose. Despite her aggression, she is a talented fighter. Even without her Aura, I'm sure she would have wanted to continue the fight we had."

"I wouldn't be surprised. But Glynda's greatest strength...was perhaps in her team. She was partnered with exceptional students, and together they passed every class with flying colors. They helped each other, grew closer together..." Ozpin smiled at the memories of Glynda's teammates. "They were perhaps the pride and joy of Beacon Academy itself."

"Her teammates..." Djarin had met many Huntsmen and Huntresses in his travels, and they were usually alone. So the Mandalorian was having an idea about what happened. "Did they separate after graduating?"

"No, they died."

"...Died?" Djarin's first idea was thrown out the window, so he tried to guess again. "Mandalorians?"

Ozpin slowly nodded. "It was their final year at Beacon. Their final mission before becoming official Huntsmen and Huntresses. I don't know exactly what they did, but Glynda was the only survivor. The airship that brought her team only found Glynda, stripped and bleeding."

"...So she sees all Mandalorians as enemies."

"It was... hard to blame her. She was tortured, beaten, branded, it was a miracle she survived. But... surviving isn't always enough."

Djarin couldn't blame Goodwitch for hating Mandalorians, but that wasn't an excuse for her earlier actions. But still, her ordeal sounded like it was beyond excruciating. And Ozpin's descriptions left Djarin with one question. "What did you just say?"

"Surviving isn't always enough," Ozpin repeated. "Glynda spent a while in therapy, but she was still able to graduate and-"

"No, no, something about a brand." Djarin stood up. "Did you say these Mandalorians branded her?"

"Sadly, yes. She only talked about it once, but I never-"

Djarin backed away and came to a conclusion. "Kyr'tsad."

Ozpin tilted his head. "What? Wait, does this mean something to you?"

"I think so. I'd like to talk to her."

"Well, she'll be back in a week, you can-"

"Professor, I need to see her now."

Glynda awoke to the sound of a kettle going off. Getting up from the chair, she walked through the living room of her apartment and went into the kitchen. Taking the kettle off the top of her stove, Glynda poured herself a cup of tea. Taking a sip, she moved back into the living room and drank her tea. She had a feeling this would be a time killer for her each day of the week, since she was temporarily out of a job.

Glynda was still reeling over her reckless attack on the Mandalorian and Ozpin's talk with her. While she regretted destroying an entire classroom, she didn't change her mind on the Mandalorian. Both she and Ozpin knew her attack was more than just about mistaking Cinder's nose for child abuse. And Ozpin made sure to remind her of that.

Which was why Glynda was still reeling over her punishment. Not only was she suspended from Beacon for a week, Ozpin had the nerve to suggest going to a therapist. She insisted that she was fine, that she never acted like this in all the years she worked at Beacon. But Ozpin believed her scars ran deep, and they always show in a matter of time, one way or another.

Today was probably the first time she hated being in Ozpin's office. She had to listen about the consequences of her actions and be reminded why the Mandalorians left scars that needed to be healed. Standing in that office and sitting alone in her apartment only made her feel worse, and miss her friends even more.

Lamenting over her failures for ten minutes made the tea in her cup too cold to drink. So, Glynda moved to the kitchen to pour her cup out, and maybe look for a better beverage.

That was when she heard a knock on her door.

Putting the mug down, Glynda opened the door to reveal Professor Ozpin on the other side. "Ozpin?" she asked. "What are you doing here?"

"I'm sorry to arrive unannounced, Glynda, but we were hoping to talk to you," Ozpin stated. "May we come in?"

Glynda moved aside to let Ozpin in, but then remembered something he said. "Did you say 'we?' Who else is-" Djarin's presence answered her question, but left another one to be answered. "Oh, Gods, what?" she asked, already exhausted. "Why are you here?"

"..."

Djarin moved away from Glynda and closer to Ozpin. "I just spoke with Mr. Djarin, and he believes there may be a way for you two to bury the hatchet."

Glynda sighed as she sat down. "Listen, I'm sorry about what happened. I understand Ozpin will take measures to-"

"Take off your shirt."

Both teachers glared at Djarin, but Glynda was the first to speak. "What?" she asked impolitely.

"I want to see your brand," Djarin requested. "I can-"

"You told him?!" Glynda yelled at Ozpin. "How could-?!"

"I'm sorry, Glynda," Ozpin said with sincerity. His neutrality had turned into sympathy as he turned to Djarin. "Djarin, this is a sensitive issue, you can't just come here and make demands such as this." He turned back to Glynda. "Glynda, I'm sorry, but I had to tell him. He knows what happened and he wants to help."

"Help? Help?! Here's how you can help!" Glynda rose from her seat and jabbed her finger in Djarin's direction. "You can start by stop hiding your face under that trash can! Or better yet, tell your people to go back home!"

"Glynda, he-"

"No, wait, here's something I really need! Bring my FRIENDS BACK!"

"..."

Djarin knew it would be wise to let Glynda vent, to let it all out. He expected her anger to rival most of his enemies, but he didn't expect to see Glynda begin to cry after her tirade. She backed away and continued to cry, which caused Ozpin to rise from his seat.

But the Mandalorian stood up first. "I know about your team," he said calmly. "I know they were important to you. Just like what happened to you was important as well." Glynda turned back to him quickly. "It caused you to see me and my people as your enemy. But now, I need to be your ally, Glynda. And I want to start by helping you with this. But first, I need to see what they did to you."

"..."

Glynda dried her tears, and put her glasses back on. "You can't help," she said. "There is nothing you, or anyone, can do to change anything."

"Maybe. But I think I know the people who did this to you. We can go after them, bring them to justice."

"...You really want to do this?" Her skepticism was clear for both men to notice. "Why?"

"Because like it or not, we're on the same side. We may be working together, but we're not... working together. I think... I hope... that by going after these Mandalorians, it will help us start working together."

"..."

Glynda had every reason to turn Djarin away, and she wanted to. She wished she never met him, she wished things were different, but more importantly... she wished her teammates were here with her. But Glynda knew she couldn't always get what she wanted.

"You're not going to take 'no' for an answer, are you?" she asked.

"No."

Glynda let out a heavy sigh. "Just don't touch it." Djarin nodded, and Glynda turned around. "Ozpin, could you leave the room, please?"

The sound of a door closing gave Glynda the confirmation she needed. So, she took off her glasses. Then, she removed her cape. Then, she began to unbutton her shirt. Then, she removed it, along with her bra.

Djarin was staring at Glynda's naked back, the only thing on it was a dark red mark. Djarin removed his helmet to get a clearer look. He was staring at what looked like a horned crown, with three horns on the top and three smaller ones at the bottom.

Djarin quickly put his helmet back on and spoke to Glynda. "You're a very lucky person," he said. "I hope you realize that."

Glynda put her clothes back on, and turned to the Mandalorian. "So... you know about this?"

"Yes. Glynda, you're wearing the symbol of the most dangerous Mandalorians in the world. Most clans have places where they survive. These ones... they're pure conquerors. Other clans I've met have spoken about them taking cities outside the kingdoms, killing everyone they pleased."

"Have you... Have you changed your mind, then?"

"No. I'm keeping my word, Glynda. This is the Way. I have a plan to find them, and I'll help you bring them to justice."

"...Who are they?"

"While my people gave them the name 'Kyr'tsad,' they call themselves... 'Death Watch.'"

Warmachine375 · Aug 1, 2023

TheCourtofTalons said:
"While my people gave them the name 'Kyr'tsad,' they call themselves... 'Death Watch.'"

Death Watch are in for a surprise when they land on Remnant and encounter Grimm or Huntsmen with crazy weapons and Semblances.

TheCourtofTalons · Aug 8, 2023

Chapter 23: The Past

Years ago

"Altan Zaffre, Samson Nikos, Victor Embers, and Glynda Goodwitch."

Four young students, each of them with their arms behind their back, were listening as Beacon Academy's new Headmaster listed off their names. Each of them worked hard in their initiation, and were all forced to trust each other to get to the other side. While Altan was insistent on clearing the Grimm himself and Samson mostly talked about how he could cleanse the Emerald Forest within a minute, Glynda trusted them with her life while she was tested. And her trust was well rewarded, now she stood with pride as she was about to become an official Huntress in training.

"The four of you recovered the White Rook pieces," the Headmaster continued. "From this day forward, you will work together as... Team AGSV. Led by... Altan Zaffre."

Glynda wasn't surprised. True, she spent most of her summer learning and reading various books on Huntsmen training to prepare being on a team. But Altan showed great initiative in the Emerald Forest. He was a patient warrior and his method of killing Grimm was highly logical, choosing to ambush rather than charge in like Samson. Truly, Glynda felt that she could learn much from him.

Each of her new team members, including her, had their flaws, but Glynda felt like she was on top of the world. And nothing could stand in her way of her dream.

Present-day

Glynda was waiting inside the tower's elevator. She arrived at Beacon Academy early in the morning, despite her suspension not being lifted. After her talk with the Mandalorian, Glynda told Ozpin what she would be doing. But before she left, Ozpin asked to speak with her in private.

"Come in," a voice on the other side said. The door opened and Glynda stepped inside to see Ozpin with a mug in his hand. "Good morning, Glynda. Would you like a drink?"

"No, thank you," she said. "I won't be staying long."

"I know." Ozpin sat down. His face's neutrality didn't change, but Glynda could tell how concerned he was by his voice. "Glynda, I know you feel that-"

"Ozpin, please." Glynda stepped forward. "This is something I need to do. You were right all along. What those Mandalorians did to me, what they took-" Glynda rubbed her eyes before continuing. "I've still been haunted by it, all these years. But this has to stop now. The only way that can happen is by bringing this 'Death Watch' to justice."

"I know," Ozpin said. "I wouldn't dare attempt to talk you out of this. I only wished to offer my help."

"You... want to help?"

"Of course. From what Mr. Djarin told me, he has every right to believe Death Watch is dangerous. And we've seen what they're capable of... I don't know what I would do if the past repeated itself... and I wasn't there."

"..."

This was the last thing Glynda expected to hear. Professor Ozpin was one of the wisest people on Remnant, and she knew it would be hard to counter his logic. That was why she didn't want to hear any attempt of his to step down, in case she would agree. But now, Glynda had her mind set on avenging her team and friends, and her mission seemed to have gotten better before it began.

But she didn't want anyone else to join her and Djarin. If Ozpin went, there was no telling what Death Watch would do to him. Glynda knew even Ozpin could be outmatched, and if he died... things wouldn't be good for them. So, Glynda made up her mind.

"Thank you," Glynda choked out. "But with all due respect, I have to see this through on my own. This started with me, and it has to end the same way."

"...I understand," Ozpin said. Truthfully, he was saddened to hear that there was nothing he could do to help someone who he perceived as the incarnation of loyalty. But even though he couldn't join Glynda, he knew one way he could still be of assistance. "But please, do not hesitate to call me."

"I won't." Glynda turned heel and walked back to the elevator.

"And against the your judgement... I'd suggest trusting Mr. Djarin."

Glynda stopped.

"For your own good."

Glynda didn't turn around, but moved her head so that she could see Ozpin with her right eye. "I'll trust him to lead me to Death Watch."

"..."

Nobody made a sound as Glynda took the first steps of her mission.

"Dad, please. Let me come with you."

"Cinder, we talked about this. You have to stay here."

"But you might need me! What about Goodwitch? What if she-?"

"I'm her only link to Death Watch, she won't attack me."

"Well, what about Death Watch? If they're as dangerous as they sound-"

"Then that means I can't risk your safety."

Djarin and Cinder had been going on and on about this ever since he made his decision. Djarin had a plan to find Death Watch and bring them to justice, and Glynda made it clear that she was going with him. Cinder didn't like the idea of her father going alone with Glynda, so she immediately wanted to go with him as well. But Djarin knew what would happen if he granted her request. Not even the power of the Fall Maiden could protect her from the brutality of Death Watch.

"If you do this, it'll be the first time we've been apart since Gideon!" Cinder reminded him. "Dad, I... I don't want that."

Djarin kneeled down to his daughter and put his hand on her shoulder. "Neither do I, Cinder," he confessed. "But I risked your safety once, I won't do that again."

"..."

Djarin stood up and picked up his rifle. Making sure the scope was accurate, he put the weapon on his back. "Don't worry, I'll only be gone for the day," he promised. "Be good for Ozpin, okay?"

"But, Dad-!"

"No 'buts', Cinder." He kneeled down to her again. "I know this is the right call, that you need to stay at Beacon. I need you to trust me."

Cinder sighed in defeat, but granted his request. "Okay," she said. "But if she hurts you again, make sure I'm the first to know."

Djarin chuckled as he pulled her into a hug. "I doubt there'll be a need for that. Be a good girl, okay?"

"I will, Dad. I love you."

"I love you too."

A knock on the door made Djarin let go of Cinder and open it. On the other side stood a slightly refreshed Glynda, having gotten enough sleep after her ordeal. She also found time to repair her riding crop, and she was officially ready to begin her quest. Except for the one thing that she had on her mind. Something that she wanted to make right while she had the chance.

"Djarin, before we go..." she nervously began.

"I have everything planned out," the Mandalorian reassured her. "Once I find out where they are, you can decide what to do with Death Watch."

"Actually... would you mind if I talked to your daughter? Just for a minute?"

Djarin turned back to Cinder, prepared to change the young girl's mind about the answer she had to Glynda's question. "Dad, I don't-"

"It's okay, Cinder. I think Glynda just wants to apologize, and-"

"Apologies aren't enough, Dad. You told me yourself, actions speak louder than words."

"..."

Djarin couldn't argue with the girl's logic. When he removed his helmet in front of Cinder for the first time, she knew how serious he was about being her father. And Glynda had attacked him twice, causing Cinder to see Glynda as an enemy. But now wasn't the time to hold grudges, and the Mandalorian needed to teach that to Cinder. "You're right," he began. "But Glynda's taking an action by-"

"No, it's fine," Glynda said. "She has every right to be mad at me." Glynda turned back to Cinder. She was still on edge about the Mandalorian, but she was hopeful to gain some trust from the new Fall Maiden. "You're absolutely right, I let my actions speak for me, and they kept saying your father was a monster. But now, Djarin wants to show me he's not who I think he is, and after thinking about it, this may be a chance worth taking."

"..."

Glynda took a deep breath and spoke again. "So, I want my actions to speak for me again. To let you know how sorry I am, I'm going to protect both myself and your father from Death Watch. I've faced them before, and I know how dangerous they are. So, Djarin will need my help. And if protecting him means I can earn your forgiveness, I'll do it."

Cinder took some offense by saying Djarin needed help. He was her rock, her knight in shining armor. To her, the Mandalorian had no flaws. But based on what Djarin was telling her earlier, Glynda had a point. "It... It would be a start," Cinder promised.

Glynda smiled at the notion, despite it not sounding like a "yes" or "no". She was going to take whatever she could get, and so was Djarin. "Thank you, Cinder," Djarin said sincerely. "Ozpin will be here soon, you be good to him."

"I will. I promise."

Djarin smiled and rubbed Cinder's head. After he promised that they would be back soon, he closed the door and followed Glynda outside the building. "Once we get outside, I'm going to use my Semblance to take us to Vale. I have an old friend in the city who I think can-" Djarin stopped talking as he saw Glynda smiling to herself. "Something funny?" he asked calmly.

"I'm sorry," Glynda said as she wiped away her smile. "Cinder can be a little stubborn sometimes, I assume?"

"Is that a problem?"

"No. She just... really reminds me of people I used to know."

Years ago

"I said I'll do it myself."

"You said that on your last assignment. And how did that go for you?"

"Look, I said I'd handle it, I don't need you watching over my damn shoulder!"

"..."

Altan had been struggling in some of his classes, mainly all classes that weren't History, Combat, or Grimm Studies. He certainly knew what he was doing in those fields, but that didn't excuse him for the poor job that he'd been doing in his other classes. On the other hand, Glynda knew every subject by heart. So when she decided a study session with her leader was in order, she suggested it to him once he came into Team AGSV's room. But his answer was less than desirable.

And unfortunately, Altan wasn't the only one who was ticked off that night.

"Well, that remains to be seen!" Glynda spat back, losing control of her temper. "These classes aren't the only thing you've been 'handling!'"

"Oh, so you're doubting everything else about me?!" Altan yelled.

"Well, maybe if you'd learn how to prioritize things, we wouldn't be in this problem!"

"The hell do you mean 'we'? I thought I said I didn't need your help!"

"There's no 'I' in team, Altan!"

"I need my team on the field, not annoying the crap out of me like you're doing now!"

"Why, you ungrateful-!"

"Guys, relax!"

Glynda and Altan turned to see Samson and Victor at the door. They could hear the argument from down the hallway, and Samson took it upon himself to put a stop to it. "We could hear your shouting from the other end of the hall, what's the big problem?!"

"It's not my fault!" Glynda and Altan yelled simultaneously. As they turned back to each other with big glares, Victor moved in between them with his arms out to keep them away from each other.

"Yes, it is," Victor calmly said. "You're both acting like children rather than a leader or a good student."

"Oh, so now you're doubting me too?!" Altan yelled, furious at the idea of being called incompetent.

Victor didn't do anything else to push his leader, but began to talk him down instead. "No, Altan. You've shown time and time again why you're leading us. Doubting your ability on the field would be dumber than taking Glynda's offer." He turned back to Glynda. "You know she's probably the smartest person in the room, right? If she says she can help, that's an offer I'd take in a heartbeat."

"Well, you clearly didn't hear me say that I don't need help." Altan pushed his teammate out of the way with his shoulder. "I'll be in the library."

Glynda began to walk after him, but a hand to her shoulder stopped her. "Let it go," Samson advised, keeping a firm grip.

"Yeah, we're not done with you yet," Victor included, still seeing one more problem to deal with.

Glynda turned back to Victor, taking a deep breath and rubbing her eyes before speaking. "Victor, I appreciate what you said. And while I'm sure you were exaggerating a little, I know I'm probably the only one who can help him."

"Not like this," the young man retorted. "You looked like you were about to explode before Samson and I came in here."

"So? He wouldn't listen to me when I asked him calmly. Getting angry was inevitable."

"...Maybe. But there's something else that makes people listen to each other. Something most people, especially Huntsmen and Huntresses, need. You know what that is?"

Glynda took a moment to think and came to a conclusion. Something she felt she should have showed Altan. "Evidence?" she assumed.

"No. Patience."

"..."

Glynda mentally cursed herself for not realizing that as Victor continued to make his point. "Altan will come around, all you can do is wait until he does. And if there's another situation like this one, all you can do is wait until he's calm to see he'll need a hand."

Samson included himself in the conversation. "One thing I would suggest is learning how to read people and know them. If you go up to someone and say they need help, they may take that the wrong way."

Nodding in agreement, Victor walked over to a desk and put on a set of headphones. Before playing some music, he had one more thing to say. "Altan will see he can't put the world on his shoulders. In the meantime, you should take a breather, have a fresh mind before helping him."

"..."

Glynda spent the rest of her time reading a book on Grimm studies and taking notes. But she also thought about what Victor said, mainly about how he could hear them arguing down the hallway. She felt embarrassed at first, thinking about how many students might have heard them as well. But she knew it was her own fault, her temper got out of control. She couldn't act like that with her team, not even when they would go on an actual mission. So, she calmed herself down and waited for Altan to come back.

Once he did, she was more than happy to help him on his way.

Present-day

The Mandalorian and Glynda found themselves in downtown Vale by Djarin's Semblance. As soon as he did, Djarin walked to a building where they could hear music. "I meant what I said at Beacon," said Glynda, who was following behind Djarin. "But I'd like to know more about this... plan of yours."

"I have a friend who likes to spend his free time in this part of Vale," Djarin replied, indifferent to Glynda's confession. "He and I do occasional business together, and he's met Death Watch before meeting me."

"Can we trust him?"

"He and I have done work that's... under the table, but I've trusted him each time we met. I can't remember the last time he let me down."

"You said he likes to spend free time here. How do we even know he's here now?"

The Mandalorian pointed to the entrance of the building. "Because of him."

Glynda followed his gaze to see a man standing outside the building. He was wearing a gray vest over a white long sleeved shirt. But the most distinct feature of the man was the metal covering over both his ears that met at the back of his bald head. He seemed to act as a bouncer, watching people go inside the building. "Who is that?" she asked.

Djarin ignored her question and walked up to the indifferent man. "We're here to see your boss," he said.

"..."

After a few seconds of silence, the man walked inside the building. Djarin and Glynda followed, despite Glynda not knowing where they were going. The man led them inside another set of doors, where the music got louder. Glynda realized that they were in some kind of nightclub, and she instantly regretted coming here in the first place. "Ugh," she mumbled to herself. "I hate nightclubs."

The Mandalorian simply focused on following the man, despite people staring at him and one young woman talking to him. "Mmmm..." she hummed as she got closer. "I'd do almost anything for a peak under that helmet." She touched the Beskar. "Almost anything."

"..."

Djarin kept walking, and the woman gave up any further attempts. The man leading the two guests opened a door at the back of the room, where they could hear a few men talking.

"Alright, I want a nice, clean game here."

"Come on, Xiong, it's me you're talking to here."

"Pay attention, Junior. This is how you beat a man at his own game."

"I got next game, Dad."

Another door opened to reveal three men, one of them in his late teens. The teen was wearing a black vest over a white shirt and red tie, his father wearing a suit with similar attire. The third man was of dark complexion and wearing a light blue shirt with dark blue pants and cape on his back. He looked up at the door with a smile, his friend and son shot a neutral glare.

The brief silence broke when Djarin looked to the man in the cape. "I thought I would find you here," he said.

Once the man saw Djarin, his smile vanished. He immediately put down a drink he was holding and quickly stood up. He stared at the Mandalorian in a way that would rival all the cold stares Glynda had given him at Beacon. The man's associates followed his lead and glared daggers at the Mandalorian. "Why you slimy, double-crossin', no good swindler," he said as he jabbed a finger at the club's guest. "You got a lotta guts seeing me, after what you pulled."

"..."

The change in the atmosphere was completely unexpected to Djarin. The one person who could help him just made it clear that he was beyond furious with the Mandalorian. Djarin was concerned about two things once this happened. First off, this could derail all of his plans and start from square one. Second off, he had no idea what his 'friend' was talking about. But he seemed to be out for blood.

Djarin immediately tensed up once the man sent two arms towards him... but they stopped midway. The man immediately started laughing, glad that he had pulled a joke on the Mandalorian. Djarin began to calm down once his friend pulled him into a hug and laughed some more. "How ya doing, Mando?!" he asked with enthusiasm. "So good to see you!"

"...Good to see you too, Lando."

The man known as "Lando" looked back to the father and son at the table. "Hey, would you mind if we put the game on hold for a minute?" he politely asked. "We got some catching up to do."

The men made their way to the door, leaving Djarin to catch up with his friend. "I thought you learned your lesson with gambling," he said.

"Yeah, losing the Falcon was hard. But with the money I'm making now, gambling a few Lein wouldn't really hurt."

"Now?"

"I finally got a steady job. I made a deal with Atlas and Mistral to run a joint mining business that can help mine some of the natural Gravity Dust in places like Lake Matsu. I can't say too much, but I guess you could say my head will be in the clouds."

"I see." Djarin moved aside to sit down. "Lando, I need your-"

"Hello, what have we here?" Lando moved past Djarin and closer to Glynda. Both the Mandalorian and the Huntress knew what was going on, and both of them rolled their eyes in annoyance. "Greetings, I'm Lando Calrissian, future administrator of Dust mining in Mistral. And who might you be?"

Glynda pulled out her Scroll to show her Huntress license. "Glynda Goodwitch. We'd like to ask you a few questions."

Lando looked back to Djarin. "What, are we in trouble or something?"

"No, we just need to talk."

Lando sat back down, still smiling. "So, what can I do for you?"

"We thought you could help us out," Djarin replied. "This will sound strange, but... do you remember those Mandalorians you told me about? The ones that nearly burned you?"

Lando's smile disappeared, which gave Djarin and Glynda the answer they were looking for. "Uh, Mando... if this was about a broken ship or business advice, you know I'm your man," he started. "But if you wanna talk about those crazy bastards, the answer is 'no.' I'm sorry."

Glynda spoke up before Djarin could say their business was over. She knew this man was her only chance at finding Death Watch, and she would be damned before she lost it. "Mr. Calrissian, we're not asking for too much," she said. "All we want is to know where these Mandalorians might be."

"I understand that, but-"

"And by keeping your silence, you're endangering people who were in the same position as you."

"I understand, but my silence is what's keeping me alive. They said-"

His continued attempts made Glynda jump out of her chair and jab a finger at Lando. "There is a lot more at stake than just your life here! What about all the lives Death Watch took? And you're just keeping quiet to save your own skin, which quite frankly, doesn't seem to be worth-!"

Djarin grabbed Glynda's hand before she could jab another finger. "That's enough!" he yelled at her.

"..."

Glynda sat back down and looked to the side, leaving the Mandalorian to continue his deal with Lando. "Lando, I know about the deal you made with Death Watch. And how giving them up could put you at risk. Staying quiet about this is smart, but it's..." He shifted his head towards the irate professor. "Hurting people," he finished calmly.

Lando sighed before reiterating his point. "Mando... I understand there are some people hurting because of them," he said while looking at Glynda as well. "And I know how this might make me look, but I can't do this. Imagine what would happen if the two of you were killed. They would know that Iwas the one who led you to them. And I have some things..." Lando looked towards the man who led Djarin and Glynda inside. "And some people worth protecting."

When the Mandalorian followed his friend's gaze, he suddenly had an idea. "You always said you knew which bets not to take. But what about the bets worth taking?"

Lando tilted his head. "...Meaning?"

Djarin pressed a button on his gauntlet and his blue screen appeared. After pressing a few more buttons, he pulled up a picture of one of the allies he made on his recent adventures: Pietro Polendina.

"Who's this?" Lando asked.

"His name is Pietro Polendina," Djarin answered. "He's a doctor in Atlas, and a scientist. He helped me with an incident in Nevarro that involved an IG-unit."

"I thought those things were out of order."

"Well, he put one back in order for me. The man's a genius, he knows technology." Djarin paused for a moment before making an offer he knew Lando wouldn't refuse. "I wouldn't be saying this if I didn't believe it wasn't true. Lando... Pietro might be able to help Lobot."

Glynda turned to Djarin. "Um, what's a 'lobot?'"

"Not what," Lando said as he turned to the man standing by the door. "Who." He stood up and put a hand on the man's shoulder. "This is Lobot, my best friend. Mando might have told you I've been on quite a few adventures in the kingdoms. He's been with me for some, but Lobot's been with me on all of them. Saved my life more times than I can count."

"...What's wrong with him?"

Lando pointed to the technology on Lobot's ears. "This. Lobot took a bad hit in Argus one day, didn't look like he was going to make it. But I found a doctor who said she could help. The girl was a rookie, not a whole lotta experience with this kind of thing... but I was desperate. She used this to save Lobot's life... at the cost of his soul." Lando sat down and took a sip from his glass. "I've been looking everywhere to find someone who can undo part of his programming to get him back... but I've had no luck. Not even with the Atlesians I'll be working with."

Glynda immediately felt guilty about everything she said. While she was upset with Lando's silence, she could see that he was right about some people he needed to help. "I'm sorry," she said sincerely. "I understand your predicament."

"Thank you." Lando turned back to Djarin, who still had the picture of Pietro. "Mando... are you sure this guy can help?"

"Yes. It could take some time, but I don't think he's busy at the moment." The Mandalorian turned off the screen. "If I call him now, I'm sure he'd be willing to help you." He then leaned a little closer to Lando. "But we need help with these Mandalorians. You help us, and I'll let Pietro know to expect you."

Lando took a moment to think. He was one to take risks in life, but he knew which ones were more dangerous than others. The idea of talking about those Mandalorians scared him, but one look at Lobot made him see that the risk would pay off. And he knew Mando was no liar, that he kept his word no matter what.

So Lando leaned forward and gave his answer. "Alright, you got a deal." He smiled as he shook Djarin's hand. "So here's the gist. About seven months ago, I was... giving a friend a lift. The airship wasn't the Falcon, but it could fly. When we passed the island of Vytal... I may have seen some crazy Mandos. They may have tried to burn me, but I may have given them everything I had in the ship. And, well... the ship too."

Djarin nodded and stood up. He pressed his gauntlet again and prepared to make a call. "Got it," he said. "I'll go call Pietro." He walked deeper into the room, going into a separate one. Glynda turned back to Lando and sighed.

"Mr. Calrissian, I'd like to... apologize for my behavior," she said. "I'm sure you noticed, but finding-"

"Aw, don't worry about it," Lando said with a smirk. "Trust me, I've dealt with worse than a few insults. And you're right." His smile disappeared. "Finding these guys is pretty important to you, isn't it?"

Glynda looked down at the table. "More important than anything right now."

Years ago

Team AGSV stepped off an airship at Beacon. They had just returned from their first mission as second year students, dealing with Grimm near remote villages in Mistral. Everyone did their part and the mission was a success, with Altan's leadership playing a critical role. His strategy of flanking and ambushing small herds of Grimm had no flaws, and his developing trust in his teammates was well rewarded.

Glynda's Semblance to lift the Grimm off the ground to decrease the Grimm's chance to fight back granted the team more mobility over the demonic creatures.

Victor's weapon, which he dubbed 'Unfair Deal' not only took care of Grimm from a long distance in its bow and arrow form, but the sword breaker it could transform into was capable of cutting the bones and claws of almost all the monsters.

Samson's shield, which he named "Akoúo̱", caught every Grimm off guard. Throwing the shield made the tool cut through each monster that was in its path. And with his magnetic Semblance, Samson was practically unstoppable.

Or so he thought.

"How's the arm?" Victor asked Samson, who was staring at gauze on Samson's lower right arm.

"Aw, it's fine," Samson reassured him with his usual confidence. He took a few bad hits when in Mistral, but one left the young student with a scratched arm. Victor was able to treat it properly to avoid infection, and Samson ran back to fight some more. "My Aura healed it a while ago," Samson continued as he began to quickly unwrap Victor's work.

"Whoa, whoa, careful!" Victor grabbed his other arm. "It might still be sore, you shouldn't-!"

"C'mon, Vic! You really think something like this will slow me down?"

"I never said that, I just-"

Samson finished unwrapping the gauze and carelessly threw it away. "There! See?" He showed his arm to everyone as he wiggled his fingers and flexed a muscle. "What'd I tell you? Alright, I'm gonna head to the training room."

"What? Sam, you really-!"

"Dude, stop worrying!" Samson said as he turned back to his team. "I'll only be a few minutes." He turned around and made his way to Beacon's training room, leaving the rest of his team to head back to their dorm.

As Altan and Victor expected, Samon's 'few minutes' finished over an hour ago. Altan decided to find out what his teammate was doing. As soon as he left, Victor got up from his bed and moved to Glynda's desk. "Hey Glynda, you got a minute?" he asked.

Glynda put down her pen and looked at Victor. "Of course," she said. "If it's about one of your classes, let me-"

"No, it's just... I'm kind of worried about Samson."

"You are?" Glynda moved her swivel chair to show how focused she was. "He seemed fine to me."

"Well, that's my problem. He's confident, carefree, he's being... well, typical Sam." Victor took a quick breath as he ran a hand through his hair. "He's being a little too much of Sam."

"Hmm..." Glynda put a hand to her chin. "If you're talking about our mission, you're absolutely right." If there was one thing Glynda remembered about the mission, it was Sam's carefree attitude. He charged brazenly towards packs of Grimm, claiming he was the only one who could kill them all. His impulsiveness not only got him hurt, but damaged his shield. He could have gotten killed, but he simply ignored any concern for his own safety.

"Yes, thank you!" Victor yelled as he walked across the room. "He thinks he can do all these crazy things and walk away totally fine! And he won't listen when we tell him that's not true!"

"I'm upset too, Victor." Glynda stood up. "I'm glad you want to help him, but I think Altan would be the best person to do this. I mean, those two are... what's the phrase?"

"Yeah, they're gaming buddies. He knows what I'm talking about though, even if he's learned to deal with his behavior. He tried talking to him at one point, but I think it just went in one ear and out the other."

"I wouldn't say that's Altan's fault. Sam's the one who's not listening."

"I know, but I just don't wanna see him get killed."

"Maybe I could talk to him." Glynda made her way to the door. "I'm sure he's still in the training room."

Glynda's walk to the training room felt longer than it normally should have, since she was lost in her thoughts the entire time. She was preparing to give Samson the same speech everyone else gave him, but she was also figuring out how to best address her concerns. Getting through to Altan took a lot of patience, and Samson would be no different. The hard part would be understanding him, figuring out why he was acting in such a way.

"So what's got you acting like this, man?"

Apparently, Glynda wasn't the only one looking to answer this question, as she could see Altan talking to Samson.

"Look, I'm sorry for blowing you guys off," Samson said with sincerity. "But this really isn't a big deal, there's no need to worry about it."

"Sam, we're your team. We're supposed to worry about you."

"But there's nothing to worry about." Samson flashed a toothy grin. "See? I'm totally fine."

"Oh, I know you're doing great," Altan said as he sat down. "But that's the problem. You're too fine."

"Uh... what?"

Glynda took the chance to speak her mind before Altan could reply. "You're not taking your own safety into account," she said as both boys turned to her. "The fact that you think it's fine is the problem."

"...So I got a bad scratch," Samson pointed out, looking at his arm. "I'm still standing, aren't I? I mean, wasn't I still standing when I took down that Ursa during our initiation? Or after our combat classes?" He began to laugh as he recounted his past victories. "Nothing can stop me!"

As soon as he said that, Samson could feel himself fly off the ground. As soon as his legs were floating in the air, Samson's body hit the ground and was pinned by nothing. "What the-?!" The student looked to see Glynda's riding crop pointed at his chest. "Glynda, what the hell?!"

"Nothing can stop you, right?" she asked. "Sure, you can use your Semblance. Throw all the metal weights at me. But what if you're in a forest pinned by a Grimm rather than me?"

"I can-"

"And what if your Aura broke?" Altan included. "Suppose you rushed into a Grimm like you did today and got pinned. No metal, no Semblance, all by yourself. We wouldn't be able to help you, no matter how much we'd want to." Altan turned to Glynda and shifted his head to the boy on the ground, giving her the sign to let him up. Once she did, Altan lowered a hand to Samson. Once he took it, Altan spoke again. "Nobody's invincible, Sam. Nobody should be throwing caution into the wind when taking down Grimm."

"..."

"Sam, we're not trying to be dicks or anything," Altan continued.

"We just don't want to see you get hurt," Glynda finished. "If that happens, who's going to make us all enjoy Beacon more?"

"And who's butt am I gonna kick in cards?" Altan asked with a smile.

"Okay, hold on!" Samson yelled as he pointed a finger at his leader. "I clearly remember you losing to me three times in a row last week!"

"Is that a challenge?"

"I went to the bank yesterday, I got plenty of money. What about you?"

Glynda began to laugh at the banter, even though she was unsure if she got through to her friend. Still, watching the two boys play would be fun to watch. "I'll get the cards," she said.

Present-day

Cinder was walking to Beacon Tower with Professor Ozpin, ready to begin more training. It was about a half hour after Djarin had left. In that time, she had been reading more of her fairy tale book. While she read most of the stories, Cinder found herself drawn to one story in particular: The Girl in the Lonely Tower.

The story that caused her to doubt everything.

The story that Salem said she wrote.

The story that raised more questions than answers.

"I understand if you're worried about him."

Cinder lost her train of thought at the sound of Ozpin's voice. She looked up at him to see that he was looking at her. "Huh?" she asked.

"I'm sorry," said the Headmaster. "I couldn't help but notice how deep in thought you were. I assumed you were thinking about your father."

"Well... you're not wrong." Cinder looked down. "He used to do this before, leaving me to do something important. I used to feel scared and alone whenever he was gone, but I learned not to be so afraid. Because he always came back."

"He'll come back again. So, I wouldn't say you-"

"Professor, could you tell me more about Salem?" Cinder blurted out.

Ozpin stopped walking and looked down at the curious child. "Excuse me?" he asked.

Cinder began to regret asking so hastily, so she chose her next words more carefully. "Well... when I met her for the first time, she told me about one of the stories I read."

"Let me guess. The Girl in the Lonely Tower?"

Cinder pointed at the professor's chest. "So you know about it too?"

"I do. It's... actually how we met." Ozpin looked around him, noticing students a few feet away. "Perhaps we should talk about this inside."

Cinder silently agreed and held off the rest of her questions until they were in the elevator. Rather than going down, the elevator moved to Ozpin's office. "So Salem must be... old. My book says some the stories were guessed to be written over a hundred years ago. And the Mandalorians say they've known her from... eons past."

"She is," Ozpin said, staring at the elevator door. "Her story is... well, it's a long one." The elevator opened to the small room, but Ozpin didn't step off. "I didn't know when I was going to tell you... but since you and your father have decided to join us, there's more you need to know." He stepped out of the elevator and walked to his desk, the young Maiden following him and sitting down. "And I should begin at the beginning."

"With Salem," Cinder assumed.

"No. With the Gods."

Cinder tilted her head. "...Gods?"

Ozpin nodded as he poured himself a drink from his teapot. Handing another mug to Cinder, he asked a question. "I take it you're not very religious?"

"Well... I used to be," Cinder replied, looking down at the ground. "But not anymore." She took a sip of her drink.

"Cinder, this world has been around for a long time, long enough that its people have created plenty of gods. But if you believe me now, I can tell you that two of them are real."

Cinder looked up. She was more concerned about Salem when she asked her question, but the idea of Ozpin's beliefs made her curious. So she decided to learn more. "Who are they?"

"They were two brothers. The older sibling, the God of Light, found joy in creating forces of life. Meanwhile, the younger brother, the God of Darkness, spent his time creating forces of destruction. As you can imagine, they both had different ideas about how things should be."

"They fought over Remnant?"

"Indeed. The older one would spend his days creating water, plants, wildlife. And at night, his brother would wake to see all the things the elder had made and become disgusted." Ozpin turned to the window. "To counteract his brother's creations, the God of Darkness brought drought, fire, famine, all he could do to rid Remnant of life. But the thing about life is... it always returns."

"So Darkness was powerless against his brother."

"Not exactly. One night, the younger brother created something. Something that shared his innate desire to destroy anything... and everything."

Cinder spit her drink back into her cup. "He made the Grimm?"

"Yes. And as you already know, they fulfilled their purpose all too well."

"So... what happened, then?"

"The older brother ran out of patience. Knowing that their feud couldn't last forever, he proposed that they make one final creation. Something that they could both be proud of, their masterpiece. The younger brother agreed." Ozpin turned back to Cinder. "This last great creation would be given the power to both create and destroy. It would be given the gift of knowledge, so that it could learn about itself and the world around it. And most importantly, it would be given the power to choose, to have free will to take everything it had learned and decide which path to follow: the path of light or the path of darkness. And that is how Humanity came to be."

Cinder took another sip of her drink, and put it down on the table. "You believe in all of it?" she asked. "That's the religion you follow?"

"Not just believe, Cinder. I know it's true."

"How can you be sure?"

"...I've seen them."

Cinder leaned forward on the desk. "What?"

Ozpin chuckled to himself. "Yes, I've seen them before. Everyone did, once upon a time."

Cinder leaned back. "Ozpin, you're talking about this... as if..."

"I was there?" Ozpin stood up. "That's because I was."

Cinder had given the Headmaster her undivided attention as they went into the building. But now, she decided she had enough. "No," she said. "That's impossible."

"One would think." Ozpin went to the elevator. "Come with me, I'd like to show you something."

The child followed Ozpin to the elevator, but not without asking more questions. "If you've seen them, where are they now?"

"The Gods lived among us after creating Humanity. However, they abandoned the world and its people. As for where they are now, I'm afraid I have no idea."

"They seemed to be proud of their creation, if they made it together. So why would they abandon it?"

"You may have an idea."

"...Salem?"

"..."

The elevator continued to descend as Ozpin asked a question. "Tell me, Cinder. What is your favorite fairy tale?"

"The Story of the Seasons," the child quickly replied. "I like how it involves each Maiden, in an attempt to explain their power."

"Attempt?" Ozpin and Cinder made eye contact as he chuckled. "I like to think I did a good job documenting my actions."

Cinder's eyes widened. "Are you saying you wrote that story?"

"I am. And I was the one who gave them their power." Ozpin held out one of his hands, and a green orb appeared in an instant. Cinder looked down in wonder at the pulsating light. As she stared at it for a few more seconds, Ozpin held out his other hand, which had a small cut on it. "As you can see, my Aura isn't engaged. This is something I was born with, and something I gave to the original Maidens."

As Cinder looked down at the orb and listened to Ozpin, she began to realize everything he said was true. For it was the Armorer who was able to vouch for him.

"Your power belongs to another. Salem has an enemy named Ozma, a sorcerer who is locked in a stalemate with her."

"Wow," Cinder said in awe as she remembered those words, a small smile on her face. "That's... amazing." Just then, the orb flashed for a few seconds and disappeared.

"Hmm," Ozpin mumbled. "Shorter than last time."

"What happened?"

"I'll... explain later." Ozpin activated his Aura to heal the cut on his hand. "For now, let's focus on your power."

"Okay, what do you got?"

"Some good ones today. People who broke parole, criminals on killing sprees..."

"You got any in Vacuo?"

"Just one. And it seems right up your alley. Pays over a thousand Lien."

"I'll take it. Expect your finder's fee soon."

Greef Karga watched the bounty hunter leave and was feeling quite pleased with himself. Bounties from the Guild had been prosperous as of late, and he couldn't remember the last time one of his hunters had failed a job he gave them. Not only that, Nevarro had managed to get back on its feet after Gideon's attack. Mandalorians made protection easier, the citizens were all happy, and Cara was doing a great job of keeping the peace.

The only thing that seemed to linger on his mind was Cinder and Djarin. His guess was that they made it to Beacon, but he was hoping to hear back from them sooner. So he pulled out his Scroll and sent his friend a quick message to see how he was doing.

"Fine. Yourself?"

Karga gasped at the sound of Djarin's voice and put a hand on his heart. But he quickly calmed down at the sight of his friend, even though he still hadn't gotten used to Djarin's Semblance scaring him. "Mando, great to see you again!" Karga said with an extended hand. Once Djarin shook it, the Magistrate's eyes fell on the woman standing behind him. "Ah, a new friend?"

Glynda stepped forward, who wasn't looking forward to wasting any time she didn't have to. "We're here for a ship," she said.

Karga sprang up from his seat. "That's right! We just finished it, come with me!" Karga led them outside the bar and through the streets of Nevarro. Djarin wasn't sure how the new ship would be, but he had a feeling he wouldn't be disappointed with the work and sacrifices he knew Karga took with the project.

His faith was well rewarded when he laid eyes on one of the largest airships he had seen. It was larger than a regular Manta, just about the size of a Vale transport ship. But this ship was clearly meant for battle, as the side of the ship was lined with metal and the planned weapons were all in place.

"Much larger than the last," Djarin observed.

"Stronger and faster too," Karga pointed out. "I hired some engineers to do some tinkering with the engines. Should take you anywhere just as fast as the old one, despite the large size." Karga moved closer to the ship and pressed a button on the side, revealing a small door. "Why don't you look on the inside?"

Djarin took his advice and walked inside with Glynda following him. While she stood in the corner and looked at her Scroll, Djarin took in every detail of the ship. He was impressed with the amount of space, he would be able to fit a lot more supplies and weapons if he needed to. On the side was a small compartment with a small mattress. It looked like Cinder would be able to fit inside, so Djarin believed she might like it.

A ladder led to the ship's cockpit. The controls weren't different from the last ship, the Mandalorian had confidence that he would be able to fly it smoothly. Djarin took one last glance and walked outside to see Karga waiting for him.

"What do I owe you?" he asked.

"I already told you, we can call it even."

"Karga, this is too much. I can't-"

"How about this? Tell Cinder that everyone from Nevarro sends their love and wishes for good luck."

"...Sounds fair." Djarin extended his had and Karga shook it. "I don't think she'll need luck, her training's going well."

"Is that where she is? I was hoping to see how she would like the ship."

"She'll love it, don't worry."

"So where to? Back to Beacon? Or someplace more suited for you?"

"My... friend and I are going to Vytal. I'm helping her with a hunt."

Karga became quite serious when he heard this. "Yeah... I saw the look on her face. This is personal, isn't it?"

"It is."

"Well, just be careful. From my experience, it never goes well when it's personal."

"...I know."

Karga and Djarin said their goodbyes so that the hunt could begin. The first thing the Mandalorian did was put the coordinates for Vytal on his new computer, and the course was charted in less than ten seconds. He was impressed with the upgrades so far, and he had enough time to figure out what else the Razor Crest could do. But first, he decided to take care of Glynda.

"It'll be a little while before we get there," he said. "Maybe you should get some rest."

Glynda sat in one of the chairs behind the Mandalorian. As she did, she could feel how tired she was. Between the comfortable seat and her eyes feeling very heavy, Glynda fell asleep.

Years ago

Today was the day.

Team AGSV had just been given their final exam. The paper test was easy, everyone passed with flying colors thanks to Glynda's studying methods.

But now, the final part of the final exam was underway for the students. And everyone couldn't be happier.

Graduation was coming soon for the elder students of Beacon, and there was only one thing left to do. In order to graduate, Team AGSV was given a mission they would conduct themselves. No shadowing Huntsmen or Huntresses were allowed, this was Team AGSV's first mission as Huntsmen and Huntresses.

Their mission wasn't a very simple one; answer an emergency call for help from a small city outside the kingdom of Vale. Emergency calls usually called for professionals, but the immediate call to action was a good lesson to students. The call came out of the blue, but Team AGSV was ready to answer it.

"Alright kids! Thirty seconds to touchdown!" the pilot of the airship Team AGSV was on called to them.

"Got it!" yelled Altan. He turned back to his friends. "Alright, we know the drill. The city has a small transmission tower connected to the CCT. After the call was made, the tower was disabled. Once we take care of any and all Grimm, we cover Sam as he fixes it. That's our plan, you all ready?"

"Ready!" everyone else yelled with enthusiasm. Even Glynda was excited about the mission, ready for her hard work to finally pay off.

The airship got close to the ground, a dirt road that led to the city. Everyone jumped off and started running towards the city as the airship flew away. It would come back once the pilot got a call from the students.

The running got Team AGSV close to the outer wall of the city, made entirely of white brick. Before they could do anything, two Beowolves began to make their way out of the woods.

"Got 'em!" Samson yelled as he threw his shield. The spinning disk cut the first Grimm in half. Akoúo̱ bounced off a tree as it hit the next Grimm and flew deeper into the forest.

"Nice toss," Altan said.

"Thanks." Samson's hand turned black as he engaged his Semblance, waiting for the metal shield to return to him.

One more Beowolf came out of the woods next to them. Before anyone could do anything, Altan pulled a large hammer off his back and swung it at the Grimm's head. The head crashed into the ground and exploded, leaving the Grimm to turn to dust.

Victor walked up to the wall and looked in the opening. "Doesn't look full of Grimm," he said. "If I had something flammable, I could use my Semblance to make a smoke screen just in case."

Glynda followed his gaze and saw absolutely nothing but houses and slightly taller buildings. "I don't think we'll need that," she said. "It looks pretty quiet."

"Anyone see the tower?" Altan asked.

"No, it's supposed to be in the center of the town." Glynda pulled out her Scroll and looked at a map of the city. "According to this, we are... at the northern gate."

"Alright. Let's see what else is here."

As Altan took the lead with Victor, Glynda realized she couldn't hear Samson walking behind her. Turning around, she could see him still extending his hand towards the woods. "Wait a second," she called back to the others.

Altan turned to see what was going on, and walked over to Samson. "Sam, you okay?"

"Yeah, it's just..." Samson continued to hold out his arm, a black light coating his hand. "This is weird. I could have sworn this was the direction I threw my shield in."

"No, you're right." Glynda began to walk in that direction. "You want me to see if it got stuck in a tree?"

"That's never been a problem before," he replied. "I can find it, you guys go on." Samson ran into the woods, and Victor called Altan before he could protest. So Glynda and Altan walked up to Victor, who was still walking into the city.

The trio made sure to travel slowly and quietly, as to not draw any attention. During their trek, Altan was looking at the houses, seeing broken windows and slightly burning rooms. The team searched every burning house for survivors, but found no sign of anyone still alive.

"How many houses was that?" Victor asked as they walked out of another house.

"This was the tenth," Altan remembered. "Shouldn't we have found someone by now?"

"I wouldn't be surprised. Grimm rarely leave any survivors."

"Yeah, but what about the houses?"

"What about them?"

"The windows and broken doors I get, but the fires? I don't remember Grimm being capable of doing that." Altan turned back to Victor. "Or am I just overthinking it?"

"No, you're right." Victor held out his hand, which had a small piece of cloth. Forming a firm grasp, the fabric began to burn, courtesy of Victor's Semblance. "I know fire, I can tell you what usually causes a big or small one. But those houses?" He let go of the fabric and let it burn. "I didn't see anything that could've started it. Except maybe... arson."

"What are you saying?"

"I'm saying that in each house... someone may have intentionally set them on fire."

"But... that doesn't make sense." Altan turned to see that Glynda had stopped walking. "Glynda, what do you think?"

"Uh, guys?" She showed her Scroll to the boys, ignoring Altan's question. "...We're here."

"What?" Altan looked at the Scroll. "Already?" He looked up to see what looked like a relay tower, free of Grimm.

"This is it," Glynda said. "Maybe we should find Sam."

"Yeah, let's do that." Altan was about to head back to the main gate, but saw Victor kneeling down. "Vic, you okay?"

"I think I found something here," Victor said as he turned around. "What do you guys make of this?"

The duo looked down to Victor's chest to see that he was holding a helmet. It was a gray headpiece with a black "T" in the middle. The visor formed a curve underneath, colored in a blue accent with a lighter gray underneath it on both sides.

"Whoa," Altan said as he took the helmet. Looking into the visor, the team's leader shared his thoughts. "Must have belonged to another Huntsman."

"No, it didn't," said Glynda, who held out her hands. Altan gave her the helmet and the young woman was able to look at it better. "No, this isn't a Huntsman's. This belonged to a Mandalorian."

Altan's eyes widened. "What?" He moved closer. "No way."

"You remember those pictures from History class? This is justlike the ones we saw."

"Holy shit."

Victor tapped Glynda's shoulder, causing the student to look up. "I'm sorry, who's 'Amanda Lauren?'" he asked in confusion.

"What?" Glynda rolled her eyes. "No, a Mandalorian. Not Amanda Lauren."

"...Oh." Victor cursed his brief stupidity before rephrasing his question. "Well, what's a Mandalorian?"

"You don't remember?" Altan asked. "They were the people from that island who fought in the Great War."

"He's right," said Glynda. "The Mandalorians were people who created their own, prosperous nation after seceding from various kingdoms. Their culture was mainly based around warfare, using a rare metal to craft special weapons and armor."

"Rare metal, huh?" Victor put his hand on the helmet to feel the cold metal and started rubbing it clean of dirt. "So you're saying this thing's valuable?"

"No, Victor. I'm saying that a Mandalorian was here."

"Glynda's right," Altan included. "Mandalorians take pride in their armor. They take it with them everywhere they go."

"Well, this one didn't." Victor stopped rubbing it. "Whoever this belonged to just left it out in the open."

"..."

Glynda and Altan slowly turned to each other when they heard this. Just one glance told them they were thinking the exact same thing. Altan was the first to look back at Victor. "Where?" he asked.

Victor moved aside and pointed to a small patch of ground. "Right here. Out in the open."

"..."

The duo looked to each other again, sharing the same idea once again; something was wrong.

"Hey guys!"

Everyone turned around to see Samson walking towards them. "Think you can give me a hand looking for Akoúo̱?" he asked. "I can't find it anywhere."

Altan opened his mouth to reply, but Glynda stopped him by putting a hand to his shoulder. She then pointed her left index finger to the buildings Samson was standing in between. He followed her gaze to see various black spots on the walls, each similar and spread out. It was as if something burned the buildings, but hit different spots.

"That doesn't look like normal Dust rounds," Glynda observed. "What could have done that?"

"No idea," Altan answered honestly. "But this doesn't look like Grimm." He looked back to Samson. "Sam... I think we should-"

*CRASH*

Everyone jumped at the sound of something breaking. They all turned to the source of the sound, which seemed to be a small house with similar black marks. Samson began to walk towards the front door, but looked back to his team. "I don't have a weapon," he confessed. "Back me up."

Everyone wordlessly raised their weapons and pointed them at the door. Altan had his hammer ready and stayed close to Samson, in case things went bad. Confident that he would be well protected, Samson approached the door. Placing his hand on the knob, he quickly swung it open.

*BANG*

A bullet hit Samson in his chest, but his Aura and armor protected him from any damage. Rather than falling to the ground, Samson backed up and quickly raised his hands. "Whoa, whoa, whoa!" he yelled. "Friendly! We're friendly!"

A figure stepped out of the house, an older man in a worn out brown jacket. He was wearing both a knitted cap and a look of pure terror on his face. Despite the claims of friendly people in the town, the man didn't lower the Atlesian rifle he was holding. "Who are you?" he quickly asked. "Who sent you?"

"Beacon," Samson answered. "We're Huntsmen and a Huntress in training, we came to-"

"In training?!" the old man yelled. "They sent students here? Where are the-?"

*SLAM*

Everyone turned around at the sound of something large hitting the ground. They couldn't see anything out of the ordinary, but the old man had his eyes on the city's wall. "Oh, no," he whispered. "They're coming!" He quickly ran back inside his house.

"What?" Altan asked as he walked inside. His team followed his lead and walked inside, seeing the old man scramble to reload his weapon. "Who's coming?"

"What's going on here?" Samson asked.

"Sir, we may not be licensed Huntsmen and Huntresses," said Glynda. "But we can still help. Just tell us where the Grimm are, and we'll-"

"Grimm?" the old man turned around. "They're the least of our worries right now!"

"Least of our-?" Victor trailed off as he walked closer to the man. "What's out there?"

The old man ignored the student's question and asked one of his own. "Do you have guns?"

"What?" Altan asked.

"Please tell me you have guns!"

"We're armed," Samson answered, everyone else holding out their weapons. "Well, most of us are."

"Those won't do you any good." The old man lowered his rifle and ran into a separate room of the house. He began to frantically hand out various weapons to everyone. "These are all I can spare," he said. "Take them!"

In less than ten seconds, everyone was holding various guns. Glynda was looking at two pistols in her hands, Samson was holding a shotgun, Victor had a DMR, and Altan was examining a blue assault-rifle. As the old man walked around the house, looking through various windows, Glynda walked up to him. "Sir, please! Tell us what's outside!"

The old man turned around to answer, but quickly fired his gun towards another window. Glynda put her hands to her ears, the man fired very close to her. The others turned around to see what their host fired at, but they couldn't see anything in the window.

"What the hell?!" Samson yelled. "Are you trying to kill us?!"

"Alright, that's it!" Altan threw his gun down and grabbed the man's rifle. "Either you tell us what the fuck is going on, or we-!"

*BANG*

*BANG*

*BANG*

*BANG*

*BANG*

*BANG*

Multiple blasts of yellow and red energy came through the front door, hitting the old man in the back. His limp body fell to the ground, leaving the rest of the blasts to hit Altan in the chest and stomach.

"ALTAN!" Sam yelled as he rushed towards his teammate. Victor rushed to the door and kicked it open. Pointing his DMR outside, he couldn't see anyone who could have fired at the house.

Glynda began to recover from the loud noise. Her ears were still ringing when Altan was shot, so seeing her friend on the ground caused her to panic. "Altan!" she yelled. "Oh, my Gods! What happened?!"

"He's been shot!" said Victor who rushed to his leader's side. "I can't patch up wounds like this, he needs his Aura!" Victor turned to Glynda. "Glynda, you and Sam watch the door. Stay away from the windows and give me space, I'm gonna see if I can wake him up."

Glynda moved away from her teammates and joined Samson at the door. They were standing on opposite sides and Samson was looking over his gun. "Have you ever used one of those before?" Glynda asked worriedly.

"A few times," said Sam. "What about you?"

Glynda looked at the pistols the old man had given her. "No. Never."

"Just point and shoot. Don't overthink it, and keep a good grip on them."

Glynda made a mental note of this as she continued to watch the door. After a few moments, she decided to see if anyone was outside. So, she made her way to the window and picked up the man's rifle. Moving it towards the window, she braced herself for the glass to shatter and more blasts to hit her. But nothing happened.

"Alright, Altan. Nice and slow."

Samson and Glynda turned around and saw their leader stand up. Glynda rushed over to him and looked at his chest. "Altan, are you alright?"

"Not really," he said, holding his chest as some of the burns began to disappear. "But... I'm alive. How's the old guy?"

"He's... He's dead. We don't know what hit you two, they were like... some kind of energy."

"It felt like a jolt of electricity hit my body. Maybe it was Dust?" Altan looked back at the door. "Is anyone out there?"

"We don't know," said Samson. "If there is, they're being awfully quiet."

"We're not ready for this," Glynda pointed out. "What do we do?"

"...We're leaving," Altan quickly decided. "We'll call for help once we're far away from here." He turned to Glynda as he formed a strategy. "Glynda, you can use your Semblance to take whoever or whatever is out there off the ground." He then looked at Victor. "Vic, see if there's anything here you can burn to form a smoke screen." The last part of his plan involved Samson. "Sam, you said you've used guns before. You take point and lead us back the way we came."

Victor began to look for something that would produce more smoke than fire with Glynda while Altan used more of his Aura to heal the shots he received. Samson was still waiting by the door, and only moved when Victor called everyone to the kitchen table. "Glynda and I found some cloths and tore up all the carpet we could."

"Aw man, that came out wrong," said Samson, who was smirking.

"Sam, now is not the time for jokes!" Glynda yelled. "And keep watching the door!"

As the young man walked back to the door, Altan began to express his plan. "Okay, we'll throw the burning stuff out the front door and windows and wait for the smoke to cover enough of the front yard," he began. "That should provide us with enough cover to make a break for the main gate. Glynda, you think you can use your Semblance to move the smoke?"

"I could expand it, but I have to be careful," she said. "I'll need to move it fast enough to cover the grounds, but slow enough so it won't blow away."

"Alright, do the best you can." Altan turned to Victor and handed him some cloth. "Alright, Vic. Do your thing."

"Wait a minute, Altan-"

"Just do it! We don't have a choice!"

"Altan!" Victor put a finger to his lips. "Shh. Listen."

*BEEP*

*BEEP*

*BEEP*

Everyone began to look around the house for the source of a soft, quick beeping noise. "What is that?" Glynda whispered.

*BEEP*

*BEEP*

*BEEP*

"Where's that coming from?" asked Altan.

*BEEP*

*BEEP*

*BEEP*

"It's all around us," Samson deduced.

*BEEP*

*BEEP*

*BEEP*

"No, it's not," Victor whispered. He then began to move away from the table and into the small house's living room. "It's stronger right here." He then began to kneel down on the ground. "Yeah, I think it's-"

*BOOM*

Glynda woke with a start, and the Mandalorian standing over her. A scream escaped her throat as she pushed him back and fell out of her seat.

"Relax!" Djarin yelled, his hands in front of his body.

"..."

The dream Glynda had caused her to take quick sharp breaths, the sound and sight of gunfire and people dying that day still scared her beyond belief. Her instincts kicked in when she saw the black visor once again, but a few seconds to recollect her situation caused her to calm down. "Sorry," she said as she got off the ground. "I just... forgot what was going on."

"...Right," the Mandalorian replied as he lowered his hands. "I was going to tell you that we landed." He looked out the cockpit window, seeing a clearing of grass with a forest in the distance. "Welcome to Vytal," Djarin said as he made his way down the ladder.

The duo didn't waste any time as the door of the new Razor Crest opened. The sun blinded Glynda for a moment, but Djarin seemed to be unfazed by the brightness. He took the scope off his rifle and began to look around the immediate area. He lowered it once Glynda walked up to him. "See anything?" she asked.

"Nothing," Djarin replied. "It may take us a while to find them."

"You know Mandalorians better than we do. Why would they be staying in a place like this?"

"They're being smart. Colonizing Vytal was strictly off limits after the War, it would be rare for someone to come looking here."

"After I lost my... After my mission, other Huntsmen and Huntresses went back to that city and found nothing. I knew they would leave and go into hiding, but I never thought they'd come here."

"Neither did I." Djarin turned to the trees. "They could have set up camp anywhere, but the forest may be the best place to start." After he zoomed in on the trees and focused on their location, Djarin took Glynda's hand and used his Semblance to teleport them just outside the forest. Glynda was disoriented for a moment, but she regained her composure just as quickly.

"What do you know about these people?" Glynda asked.

"Like I said before, they're conquerors. After Mandalore was abandoned, every clan lived in the kingdoms. My people chose to hide and live our lives watching each kingdom. Most Mandalorians do the same, but I've heard about some clans going public in each kingdom."

"You must know a lot about them by traveling."

"That, and the fact everyone chooses to affiliate me with other clans they've seen." He turned back to Glynda when he made this point, causing her to look away in shame.

"What about Death Watch? Why do they... conquer?"

"Some say they're attempting to create a new Mandalore. Others say it's revenge for the War. Whatever their reasons are, they've made themselves the most dangerous Mandalorians I've ever known."

"So it's not for their survival, then."

"It never was."

The walk through the woods ended after a half hour. The duo were making no progress in finding Death Watch, not in the forest. So Djarin suggested they head back to the ship. Right before he could teleport, Djarin immediately put his arm up. Glynda stopped moving and grabbed her riding crop. Rather than looking around for anyone that looked Mandalorian, she focused on what Djarin was doing. At the moment, he was kneeling down and looking at the grass.

"Tripwire," he said.

Glynda kneeled down to see a thin wire in between two trees. "Are we being watched?" she asked.

"If we were, they wouldn't wait for the tripwire to attack us. Either that, or they're waiting to kill whatever they trapped." Djarin rubbed his hands on the ground near the wire. "But this wire's not connected to anything. No net, no bombs... nothing."

"What does that mean?"

"It means they'd expect someone to find this. While the realtrap..." Djarin grabbed Glynda's arm again and activated his Semblance. Three yellow blasts hit the air where the duo once stood. They reappeared in front of another tree as Djarin finished what he was saying. "Is behind us."

Glynda's jaw dropped as two Mandalorians in gray and blue armor began to walk up to the duo with rifles pointed at them. "Well, you're a clever one," said the one closest to them. He fired his weapon again, which merely bounced off Djarin's protected body. He stumbled back, but reoriented himself and charged to the members of Death Watch.

Glynda's shock died down as she remembered why she was here in the first place. So she used her Semblance to grab the rifles and throw them away. The disarmed Mandalorians immediately resorted to hand-to-hand as Djarin punched the first one in the neck. The second grabbed Djarin's fist before he could punch again and flew in the air. Performing a somersault in the air, the Mandalorian threw Djarin to the ground and reoriented himself.

Glynda did more to help by throwing rocks and sticks at the Mandalorians with her Semblance. Their Beskar protected them, and the attack only made them mad. So mad that one of them grabbed her arm and began to squeeze her wrist.

Djarin saw what was happening and saw another Mandalorian charge at him. So he used his Semblance again to dodge the attack and help Glynda by taking his knife and slicing the Mandalorian's jetpack. He immediately let go of Glynda and grabbed his jetpack in an effort to get it off, but he flew into the air before he could save himself. The jetpack exploded just as the Mandalorian hit a tree.

The other Mandalorian took out his own knife and charged at Djarin, who grabbed his wrists before the knife could hit him. The knife formed a scratch on his helmet before Djarin pushed the Mandalorian away.

Glynda swung her riding crop again, this time directed at the Mandalorian's helmet. Once it came off, the Death Watch member felt it fly back into his face and break his nose. He fell to the ground and felt a body on top of his.

"Take us to your leader and you won't die by my hand," Djarin ordered, placing his knife on his enemy's throat.

"And what makes you think I'm afraid to die?" the Mandalorian asked.

"Alright then."

The Mandalorian turned his head to see the tip of a black boot hit him in the face. Djarin didn't move at the act of violence, as he was having a good idea about Glynda's plan. After kicking the Death Watch Mandalorian again, she pressed her boot on his head. "Take us to your leader and I'll stop."

The pinned Mandalorian responded by spitting blood in Glynda's direction. "I can take a few hits," he claimed with confidence.

"We'll see about that," said Djarin, who picked the other Mandalorian off the ground and onto a tree. Holding his neck in one hand, Djarin began to punch the Mandalorian in the face. After a few hits, Djarin shook his fist to recompose himself. The Mandalorian looked at his foe's visor and began to laugh.

"M... More," he spat out. "Give... me more." He suddenly began to laugh even louder.

"Give him what he wants," Glynda said as she smacked his face with her crop. Professor Goodwitch was always someone who would show some restraint when faced against a person, but she lost all sense of composure with the Mandalorian. She repeated the violent action twice before Djarin stopped her. Rather than protesting, Glynda looked the man in the eyes and begun her interrogation. "Where are the rest of your people?" she harshly demanded.

"Here... there... everywhere," the Mandalorian explained with another laugh.

Both Djarin and Glynda were losing patience. So Djarin pulled out his blaster and pressed it against the man's head. "No more games. No more lies," he said. "Tell us where the rest of Death Watch is or you won't tell anyone anything ever again."

The Mandalorian moved his eyes upward. Then, he moved them to the side. Then the other side. "I'm telling you, they're here. They're there. They're everywhere."

"..."

Djarin kept his blaster on the Mandalorian's head as he followed his gaze. He couldn't see anything, but he was starting to have a bad feeling about the position he was in.

*CRACK*

Glynda and Djarin looked to the left at the sound of a branch breaking.

*CRACK*

They moved their heads to the other side at the same noise.

*WHOOSH*

Glynda picked up the faint sound of something travelling in the air. It lingered on as it grew closer, and it sounded... familiar. She couldn't put her finger on it, but she turned back to Djarin as the noise grew even closer. "We need to-"

*BAM*

A large metal disk hit Djarin's head and caused him to fall to the ground. The pinned Mandalorian fell to the ground as well, the pain in his face lingering. But he began to get up and turned to the shocked woman. Her shock died down as the member of Death Watch was on his feet once again. Glynda used her Semblance to send rocks towards him, but the Mandalorian was ready. Stomping his foot on the disk, it flew up to his hand and he used it to block the rocks.

That's when Glynda dropped her rod and gasped.

She realized why she recognized the sound the disk made as it flew to Djarin.

Glynda heard it almost a hundred times.

The Mandalorian was holding Akoúo̱, Samson Nikos' weapon and prized possession.

The shock she received from the bitter reunion died down as a rage built up inside Glynda Goodwitch. Using her Semblance to pick up her rod, the Professor pointed it at the Mandalorian. "Give that-!"

The sound of quick footsteps behind her caused the Huntress to turn around, but she couldn't stop the plate of steel that hit her face and made her fly into a tree. Fortunately, Glynda's Aura was engaged, so she wasn't hurt too badly. She got up to see another member of Death Watch with a steel hammer and two more Mandalorians pointing rifles at her. Glynda gasped again as she looked at the weapon. It belonged to Altan Zaffre, a steel warhammer he called "Donryu". She didn't get a chance to demand its return as the Mandalorians fired upon her. She was able to create a shield to deflect the shots, but the lead Mandalorian used Donryu to break it in an instant.

Glynda remained unfazed as she prepared for another strike. "Put down the hammer," she sternly ordered. "Final warning."

The Mandalorian simply raised his hammer and screamed. "You want me to put the hammer down?!"

Glynda attempted at another strike, but her arm was wrapped in a steel wire before she could do anything. And before she could process what was happening, the hammer struck her side and she fell to the ground. This time, her Aura shattered, leaving a vulnerable Glynda Goodwitch at the mercy of Death Watch.

Djarin managed to recover from the hit to his head and began to analyze the situation. Mandalorians of Death Watch were standing over Glynda and more were approaching him from the woods. The one he beat had fully recovered as well, wiping the blood off his face and turning to Djarin. "Were not done yet," he said as he charged at his foe.

Djarin looked back to Glynda, who was extending her hand towards him. She was hurt, and she needed help. They were outnumbered five-to-one, and Djarin had a feeling it would be ten-to-one if they stayed any longer. So he looked back to the charging Mandalorian and decided his next strategy.

Djarin vanished, leaving the shield to collide into a tree. And leaving Glynda's heart to be broken and feeling helpless.

"No..." she whispered. As she did, Akoúo̱ hit her face, knocking the Professor unconscious.

"You took your damn time," the Mandalorian said as he picked up Akoúo̱.

"It's better that way," the Mandalorian holding Donryu said as he picked up Glynda. "Fear makes them easier to handle." He looked closely at the Professor. "Who is she?"

"Glynda Goodwitch," one of the Mandalorians said. She was holding the Professor's Scroll and looking at her Huntress license. "Huntress from Vale."

"How do you think she found us?"

"Probably from the other Mandalorian who ran away," said the bloodied Mandalorian. "Coward."

"We don't know that for sure," said the Mandalorian who was looking at Glynda's Scroll. "He might be coming with backup with that Semblance of his."

"Then we should be prepared for a fight."

"Let's stay focused here." The Mandalorian holding Glynda began to tug her, which ripped part of her shirt. "We should take care of this one before we do anything else, let any other Huntsmen or Huntresses here know what they're up against."

"Stop."

The Mandalorian stopped moving as he saw one of his partners kneel down to Glynda. "I got a better idea," she said.

"What is it?"

The female Mandalorian noticed a faint burn mark on the ripped part of Glynda's shirt. After she recognized part of it, she ripped more of the shirt to confirm her suspicion. "Oh, damn."

The other Mandalorians looked at the mark and began to laugh. "Alright, new plan. We're taking her with us." Everyone silently agreed as they made their way deeper into the forest, one of them holding Glynda tightly.

The one holding Akoúo̱ began to laugh again. "Vizla's gonna love this," he said.

As the Mandalorians disappeared from sight, another Mandalorian in the trees watched them with a thermal enchantment in his helmet, making sure not to lose them. He clutched the hilt he had in his hand and activated the Darksaber's blade. "I'm sorry, Glynda," Djarin said to himself. "But I have to know where they are." He looked at the black blade in his hand. "And I can't risk losing this. Not yet."

TheCourtofTalons · Aug 16, 2023

Chapter 24: The Brand

Years ago

The only sound everyone inside the room could hear was a sharp ringing in their ears from an explosion. The sound, as painful as it was, was dying down. Once it did, a young blonde made her way to a large hole in the ground, where a limp body was a few feet from it. She kneeled and moved his face; half of it was twisted and mangled.

"Victor?" Glynda whispered, who was able to recognize her teammate, despite her shock and his severe injury. When she received no response from her friend, Glynda shook his shoulder. "Victor! Victor, wake up!"

Samson and Altan recovered a few seconds after Glynda, and the first thing they both saw was Glynda trying to revive Victor.

"Vic?" Altan called out as he crawled over. He got a good look at his face once Glynda moved aside. "Holy crap, Vic!" He tried shaking him as well, but nothing happened. Just then, the smell of smoke began to travel through the window.

"Uh, guys?" Samson called out. Glynda and Altan looked to see Samson staring out the window. He was crouched below the frame with his head barely sticking out. "Not to sound cliché or anything... but we got company."

"How many?" Altan asked.

"Looks like... three."

Altan turned to Glynda. "Check it out, I'll try to help Vic."

With that, Glynda crouched down and moved towards the window across from Samson. Following his lead, she carefully perked her head to the window, where she could see three figures in the distance. They were all walking towards the house, each carrying a rifle. Glynda fixed her glasses and was able to get a better look at each individual.

What she saw that day would normally be described as incredibly rare, if not impossible.

Three men in gray armor, armed with rifles and some kind of backpack, were coming closer and closer. But the one thing that stood out to Glynda was the shared helmet each person had. Just like the one Victor found, they all wore it on their heads. There was no doubt about it; these men were Mandalorians.

And one of them leaped in the air and flew towards the house, flames escaping from his gauntlet. "Yes! Burn!" he yelled.

Samson and Glynda ducked down and turned to look at each other as they realized who their true enemy was. "Those... Those are-"

"Guys, he's awake!"

Samson and Glynda hurried back to Altan. They saw Victor move his hand and try to speak. "Hey, save your strength, buddy. We're getting you out of here," he promised. "Glynda, pick up his arms! Sam, cover us when we make a break for it!" Glynda reached for Victor's arms but lost her grip on his left one. The arm was making its way to Altan. "Vic, save your strength," Altan ordered again. "Just-"

Altan stopped talking as Victor touched his leader's face. He tried to speak again, but the only thing that came out of his mouth was blood. More blood smeared across Altan's face as Victor's hand slid to the ground. Once it hit the ground, Victor didn't move again. He didn't speak again.

"...Vic?" Altan asked.

"..."

"Hey... Hey, Vic!" Altan began to shake his friend's body.

"..."

Glynda dropped Victor's other hand and covered her open mouth as Altan continued to shake the limp body. "Victor! Victor, come on!" Samson began to back away in shock. "Victor, wake up! Wake up!"

Present-day

"Wake up."

All Glynda could see was black, but she could hear an unfamiliar voice in her ear. Slowly but surely, the black began to disappear as Glynda started to open her eyes. Everything was blurry for a few moments until she felt her glasses return to her face. Once they did, Glynda was beginning to wish she kept her eyes closed.

Staring back at the Huntress were two Mandalorians in gray and blue armor, watching her closely. One of them was holding a fist out to her, and Glynda could see a wire in between her and the fist. Following the wire, she could see it was wrapped around her wrists and ankles, similar to a hogtie.

The other was pointing a sword at Glynda's throat. She managed to get a good look at the blade and hilt, which made the Huntress hate these people even more. They dared to threaten her with another one of her friend's weapons. This Mandalorian was pointing Unfair Deal, Victor Embers' sword breaker, right at her throat.

And the Mandalorian seemed to notice her displeasure and anger at this revelation, as he pointed the tip of the weapon closer to Glynda's flesh, threatening to slice her throat. "Don't get any ideas," he warned.

"..."

Glynda decided to be aware of her surroundings. She looked around to see more Mandalorians all around her, and it looked like there were dozens of them. Some were shooting at trees in the distance with their blasters, while others were practicing hand-to-hand combat without their helmets. She couldn't see anything that looked habitable, perhaps this was just a commonplace to them. The only kind of furniture that seemed to be here was a wide stone table. Or rather, a slab that looked like a table.

The one thing Glynda didn't see was Djarin. He didn't seem to be among the other Mandalorians, and he wasn't tied up with her. She began to have hope that he escaped and he was going to get help, but then she began to remember what really happened. The last time she saw Djarin... he used his Semblance to run away. He abandoned her.

"No," Glynda whispered, her eyes beginning to water as she realized how hopeless everything was. "No."

The Mandalorian who used his wire to tie Glynda leaned down to her. "Why are you scared?" he asked. "We haven't even cut you yet."

His friend joined in on the banter. "Maybe we caught one of the softer ones."

"Which means there won't be much of a fight." The first Mandalorian pulled on the wire, causing Glynda to feel it tighter on her wrists and ankles. "I'm tired of waiting. Why do we need Vizsla for this?"

"Because apparently, we met her before. Dalso will be here to see if that's true."

"How long will that-?"

A new Mandalorian landed right behind the two, causing them to turn around in surprise. This Mandalorian wasn't like his brothers, he was wearing silver-white armor with a red trim on his visor and a range finder on his helmet. "Speak of the Devil, and he shall appear," the Mandalorian coldly said. He looked past the two, so he could get a look at the woman they captured. "So, this is the one we met and marked?"

"Supposedly," the Mandalorian with the wire said. Dalso moved closer and gently pushed the other Mandalorian's blade aside, grabbing her face and examining it. "Everyone thinks we've met her before, but there's no way to tell other than the mark on her back. I doubt that-"

"If there are any doubts, I will have them."

"...Yes, sir."

Glynda began to squirm as the Mandalorian moved her arms to the best of his ability, given they were still tied together. He changed from looking at her face to her back. After a few seconds, he looked back at Glynda's face. "Our brothers and sisters were right," Dalso concluded. "I remember her." He turned to the Mandalorian with the sword. "Call Vizsla, he'll want to see this through."

"Yes, sir," the Mandalorian said as he pressed a few buttons on his gauntlet.

His partner looked back to Glynda. "Sir, did you say you remembered her?" he asked. "How?"

Dalso looked back to Glynda. "In a way, I owe everything to her," he said. "She and her friends helped me become a Wraith."

Years ago

Three Mandalorians were proudly watching a burning house in the middle of a demolished town. The one who burned it used his flamethrower and joined his accomplices back on the ground.

"Did you see the Huntsmen?" the one in the middle asked.

"It's just like you said," he replied. "Three Huntsmen and a Huntress. I couldn't see any confirmed kills from the bomb you threw."

"Then we'll wait for the survivors to run outside." The middle Mandalorian readied his rifle and aimed it at the house. "Remember why we're doing this. Failure is not an option."

"Yes, Dalso," the other Mandalorians acknowledged their leader as they aimed their rifles at the house. They took five steps forward before the door burst open to reveal a young man wearing a chest plate of armor, armed with a shotgun. He took a few steps, and two more people his age began to run to the tower.

"They're out!" the third Mandalorian yelled.

"Fire!"

The Mandalorians fired red and yellow blasts at the Huntsman, protecting his friends with his Aura. After a few seconds, the young Huntsmen raised his arms, a black light coating them. Suddenly, the Mandalorians felt their rifles escape their grasp. The confusion left them open to the next part of Altan's strategy, with Samson and Altan firing the weapons the old man gave them. They aimed their guns the best they could, but it didn't matter if their shots were off; Samson was using his Semblance to make the bullets hit the Mandalorians anywhere on their bodies.

"Take to the air!" Dalso shouted. The jetpack he was wearing sent him in the air, along with his allies. The bullets continued to make their way towards them, but the Beskar the Mandalorians were wearing made their attacks futile. But that didn't stop them from finding cover and firing blasts from their wrist gauntlets.

"It's no good!" Samson yelled as he began to run inside the transmission tower with Glynda. "They're wearing heavy armor!"

"Just get inside!" Altan ordered. Once they got inside, Samson put his weapon between the handles, seeing no further use for it without ammo. He was about to look out the window to find the Mandalorians, but Altan pulled him away. "No, don't risk it! We can't afford to lose anyone else. Besides, you might be the only one to fix this tower."

"Altan's right," Glynda spoke up. "The outside looked fine to me. Do you see anything wrong here?"

Samson began to look around the room, unsure what to look for. He was always known for fixing things at Beacon, but he never tried anything as vital as a transmission tower. Fortunately, the answer as to why it wasn't working seemed to be right before his eyes, as a piece of the building's inside had been shot and one of the wires had been broken.

"Guys, look at this!" Samson pointed to the part and wire. "I can fix this wire with a spare and this piece if there's a spare too."

"It's our only chance," said Altan. "Glynda, I'm gonna keep an eye out for these sick bastards. Help Sam look for whatever he needs, and make it quick." He carefully looked out the window. "They're up to something; I just know it."

It was easy for Glynda to share her leader's sentiments. She was still reeling over the fact that Victor, her teammate, and friend, was dead. She didn't process it like Sam or Altan, whose eyes were still red from tears. Right now, Glynda believed the best thing to do would be to make sure nobody else died, and the best way to do that would be to fix the tower.

And lucky enough, they found not only a wire that connected the tower's computer to the relay, but also a spare piece that the Mandalorians apparently hadn't destroyed. While Samson got to work to put everything together, Glynda looked at her Scroll to see if the signal was back up. But her Scroll wouldn't work, no matter what she tried or how long she waited.

"What's the status, Sam?" Glynda worriedly asked. Just then, a line of computers and terminals turned on with most of the lights in the tower.

"Alright, here's the gist," Samson said as he jumped down from a higher level of the tower. "I couldn't get the tower to link our Scrolls to its signal, but it can still send a message from here." He rushed to a computer and began to type. "We can call Beacon from here and hold out until they get here."

"I'll make the call," Altan said as he pushed past Samson. "You two keep an eye on the window." His teammates silently obeyed their leader's order as Glynda gave the unarmed Samson one of her pistols.

"Keep calm," Samson said, noticing Glynda's hands shaking. "We're gonna be okay."

"..."

Glynda kept watching out the window, focused on staying alive while trying to keep her composure. After a minute, Altan came to them with good news. "I got in touch with Beacon," he said with a smile. "They're sending professional Huntsmen, we're gonna be okay."

Glynda and Samson sighed in relief. "How long until they get here?" Glynda asked.

"They said they'll fly here as fast as they can, but it might take the same time it took to-"

"Shit!"

Altan and Glynda looked back at Samson, who was looking and pointing out the window. They could see something coming towards them. It was coming fast, but everyone could tell what it was: some kind of missile was heading right for them.

Altan and Glynda quickly ducked down, but Samson stayed right where he was. He raised his hand as it turned to black. The missile stopped in its tracks, and Samson could see one of the Mandalorians kneeling a few feet away from it.

Samson quickly realized his position and cunningly made a plan to turn the missile against the Mandalorian and turn the tide in favor of Team AGSV.

The Mandalorian, however, possessed a cunning of his own. Lowering his range finder, the Mandalorian raised his rifle at eye-level and pulled the trigger. Three bolts hit their mark, an unsuspecting Samson. Once he fell, the missile was free of any control and continued its course to the tower.

The Huntsmen and Huntress could only watch as the missile broke the window's glass and collided into the tower's central console, engulfing the room in flame and blasting them all outside.

The Mandalorian flew over to his prey to see two survivors and one burnt body. The woman was the first to start her recovery, but the Mandalorian didn't attack. He instead looked to one of his allies, who brought news. "Fenri... he's here."

The Mandalorian smiled under his helmet as he prepared to take flight. "Watch them," he ordered as he took to the air. As he reached the city's gate, he could see three more Mandalorians walking into the city. They all wore similar armor, but the one walking in the middle was different. This Mandalorian was wearing a cape over his shoulder as he carried a silver staff, and the symbol of Death Watch rested on his helmet's forehead.

"I'm impressed, Dalso," the Mandalorian said as he looked over the burning houses. "You and your team made quick work of this quaint town."

"Pre Vizsla," Fenri Dalso addressed the lead Mandalorian as he kneeled. "We've not only taken the city but the Huntsmen who answered their call."

"All of them?"

"Two. The others are watching over what remains."

"Rise. And take me to them."

Dalso led Vizsla and his Death Watch brothers through the ruined city. As they returned to the tower, they all saw Glynda using her Semblance to fight off the Mandalorians watching her. And she was doing remarkably well, as her shields and Telekinesis kept them at bay. Dalso became very angry at the continued resistance and prepared to kill her on the spot.

"No, Fenri," Vizsla ordered as he put his arm in front of his colleague. "This one's... impressive." He turned to his escorts and shifted his head towards Glynda, signaling them to take care of her. As they ran off, Vizsla looked at the burnt body and turned back to Dalso. "You killed the others."

"We all did, sir," Dalso acknowledged. "Without casualty."

"Two Huntsmen, about to be four." Vizsla smiled under his helmet. "You've all done well, Dalso. And you passed." He put a hand on his brother's shoulder. "As of today, you and the others are Wraiths, the warrior elite of Death Watch."

"Thank you, Vizsla. I promise we won't fail you in our new position." Dalso turned back to the other Mandalorians, who had used their wires to subdue Glynda and were currently beating her.

"I can see that," Vizsla said as he walked past his brother. As they joined the other members of Death Watch, Vizsla ordered them to stop beating Glynda and watch the other Huntsmen. Before he could do anything else, Glynda spit blood on his helmet. "Charming."

"My friends!" Glynda yelled, tears and blood falling down her face. "I'll kill you all!"

Pre Vizsla had seen men and women with spirit just like the young Huntress in front of him. And he always had the same response, given that he knew how to break them properly. "I think it's time we finished this," he said as he tapped the end of his staff on the ground. As he did, the top of it began to transform, pieces separating and reforming into a large symbol.

While the staff was transforming, Dalso and the newly appointed Wraiths tore off Glynda's shirt as Vizsla's escorts held her with their wires. Glynda began to cry and scream more, attempting to use her Semblance even though her Aura recently broke. And all Vizsla did was watch the metal on his symbol turn orange.

"Back away!" Dalso ordered the other Wraiths. As they did, all eyes fell on Vizsla's weapon. Even Glynda turned around, wondering what was going on.

"W-Wait!" she cried out. "Wha... What are you doing?"

"Do yourself a favor," Vizsla responded as he lowered the burning staff. "Don't move."

Glynda immediately became hysterical as she pulled and screamed, fully realizing what the Mandalorians were about to do. "No!" she screamed over and over again. "No, no, no, no, no, n-!" Coherent words ceased to come out of Glynda's mouth as the burning metal found its way to her entire back.

"Aaaaaaaaaahhhhhhh!"

As she began to lose consciousness, Glynda could hear every Mandalorian laugh.

Present-day

"Get away from her!"

A jet of flame reached the ground, separating Dalso from Glynda. They both followed the flame to see another Mandalorian flying in the sky. He wore silver armor like the Wraiths, but he was no brother to Death Watch. As the fire died, he flew closer to the ground, leaving Glynda to realize that her savior was Din Djarin. As she was about to ask him how he found her, she quickly stopped herself. She remembered how he left her for the Mandalorians. Now he was back, and there was no possible way that could be a coincidence. His search for Death Watch and his sudden arrival was planned. And Djarin used her as bait.

This realization led Glynda to repeatedly striking his armored chest. "You! When were you-?!"

Djarin grabbed her hands. "We'll talk about it later," he calmly said.

"But you used-!"

"I know, I know!" Djarin pointed back to the approaching Mandalorians. "You can yell at me later, but we have bigger problems!"

Glynda looked back at the Mandalorians and quickly realized Djarin was right. While that didn't change her view on being used as bait and being left at the mercy of insane warriors, it was enough for the Huntress to prepare for a fight. And the first one to commence the battle was a Death Watch Mandalorian, who fired two shots from his pistol. Djarin let them bounce off his armor as he reached for a hilt on his belt. He pulled it out and turned back to the Mandalorians. "I said get away!" he yelled as he activated the Darksaber.

The sight of the black blade made every Mandalorian stay right where they were standing. Some dropped their weapons in shock. Others slightly leaned forward to gain a better look. Glynda took this opportunity to catch her breath and recompose herself. It was strange to admit, but Djarin's presence seemed to give her some security, some confirmation that today's meeting with Death Watch wouldn't be the same as it was years ago. So with her newfound security, Glynda decided to see what their next move would be, to see how these barbarians would face justice for their crimes. But before she could ask, the Mand'alor asked a question of his own.

"Where is your leader?" Djarin demanded.

"Here."

Glynda and Djarin looked past the pack of Mandalorians to see three new Mandalorians standing behind them. Two were wearing armor similar to Dalso's, the only differences being their shoulder pauldrons. The middle one, however, wore the armor of his brothers and sisters. The only differences on his were the cape over his shoulder and the yellow mark on his helmet. Glynda recognized him but didn't falter or yield her position. If her memory served her right, this man was the leader of Death Watch. The one who burned her back.

And though she couldn't confirm it, Glynda had a feeling this man was ultimately responsible for Altan Zaffre's death.

Years ago

"Aaaaaaaaaahhhhhhh!"

The ear-piercing scream caused Atlan to open his eyes. He slowly looked to his left to see a group of Mandalorians standing over Glynda and laughing. The sight made him feel disgusted and worried about his teammate. So he grabbed the assault rifle resting next to him and stood up. He pressed the trigger to unleash a rain of bullets towards his enemies, some of them feeling the bullets pierce their exposed skin.

"Glynda!" Altan shouted, hoping she would respond. But judging from her wounds and the large burn on her back, he could tell her situation was far worse than his. "What the hell did you do to her?!"

"Same thing we're going to do to you," one Mandalorian responded. Just then, the leader swung his staff at the rifle and knocked it from the student's grasp. He then shoved the large symbol towards Altan's chest. However, Atlan caught it and activated the Aura he had left. Protected from the burning metal, Atlan grabbed the staff and pulled it, causing the Mandalorian to fall to his knee.

"Not bad," Pre Vizsla said. "Catch these." Sending his fist forward, Vizsla's gauntlet released three razor-sharp projectiles right at Altan's arm. He used his Aura once again, but he knew he couldn't keep this up much longer. He needed to be back on the offensive. So he did what he should have done ever since he saw these men: Altan Zaffre activated his Semblance, sending red bolts of electricity towards the Mandalorians.

This distraction gave Altan a chance to grab his proper weapon, Donryu. Once he did, the young man swung it at the Mandalorian closest to him. The steel collided with the Beskar metal, but the Mandalorian used his jetpack to reorient himself. As he did, he and his brothers fired on the young Huntsman. Fortunately, the steel on his hammer offered Altan some protection. And his second blast of lightning gave him a chance to both attack the Mandalorians and give him a boost to launch off the ground. Once he landed on a roof, Altan made his way to the outside of the city.

Before Vizsla gave the order to pursue the apparent coward, he turned back to his Mandalorians. "Did they send a message out?" he asked.

"Yes, sir," Dalso replied. "More Huntsmen and Huntresses should be here within the half-hour."

"Good." He turned back to see Altan fading in the distance. "And judging by his position, he seems to be running towards our brothers and sisters. Dalso, let's make sure that one will be their first catch of the day."

"You don't wish to kill this one?" Dalso picked up Glynda, who was still unconscious, by her hair.

"No. Once the battle is over, she'll show the world who killed more Huntsmen than any Grimm could."

"Yes, sir."

All the Mandalorians took to the air and began to follow Altan. As they did, Vizsla was ecstatic that his plan was working perfectly. At first, he wished for this pathetic city to be a test for Death Watch's most loyal Mandalorians. Once they proved their mettle by killing trained Huntsmen and Huntresses, Vizsla would gain new Wraiths to enforce Death Watch's more public actions. But now, he wanted to test the strength of other Mandalorians. So he ordered Dalso to allow the Huntsmen who came to send a distress signal once they arrived. Once reinforcements came, Vizsla and his men would attack. The battle would be a bloodbath, and Death Watch would be the victor.

And Altan Zaffre found out that plan once the hidden Mandalorians and Vizsla's men started to surround him. Only when he was stuck between a rock and a hard place did Altan recognize the trap the Mandalorians had set up. That his call for help had doomed him, Glynda, and the Huntsmen and Huntresses coming to their aid.

He failed.

Team AGSV failed.

Samson and Victor paid for their failure with their lives.

Altan was ready to pay as well. But his payment would be different. If he was going to die, he was prepared to do two things. First, Altan would make sure he would die for something he believed in. And secondly... he would take every one of these bastards with him.

So with a silent prayer that Glynda and the reinforcements would be okay, Atlan used everyone ounce of energy and Aura he had left to perform his last attack: the Thunderdome.

He first discovered it at Beacon by slamming his hammer into the ground once he poured enough electricity into his weapon. The result was a tremendous explosion that expanded and destroyed whatever it touched. The students who witnessed it compared the explosion to a dome, hence the name.

Although this was his most powerful attack, Altan resolved never to use it a second time when he almost got himself and his friends killed. But now, things were different. These Mandalorians had to die, even if it meant he died with them.

And unfortunately... that was precisely what happened to the leader of Team AGSV.

Present-day

"We lost a lot of people that day," Vizsla said to Glynda, remembering who she was and what her friend did to members of Death Watch.

"So did I," Glynda said, growing braver and angrier by the second. "Which is why I'm here to make sure you all pay for what you've done."

All the Mandalorians were staring at Glynda as she made this declaration. Then, they all looked at each other in disbelief. The disbelief transformed into humor as Vizsla laughed at Glynda's claim. The Mandalorians following him laughed as well, catching Glynda off guard.

"What are you going to do, Huntress?" Vizsla asked sarcastically. "Please, tell us how we're going to pay."

"Will you arrest us?" one Mandalorian asked, raising his arms as if he was ready to be handcuffed.

"All of us?"

"Some already tried."

"No prison can hold us."

"Not even one of us."

Before Glynda could act out of hatred for the savage Mandalorians again, a new voice stopped her. "You will face judgment."

The laughing and mockery stopped as everyone looked at Djarin holding the Darksaber high above his head. "The judgment of the Mand'alor," he finished.

Vizsla stepped off the stone table he was standing on and walked in a path the other Mandalorians formed for him. As he walked, he took a closer look at the Mandalorian who proclaimed himself as their ruler. He sounded confident in his claim, but his body language told a different story. He held the blade as if it was his first time, and his battle stance was improper for a sword fight. He looked like he was ready for hand-to-hand rather than a formal duel. Whoever this Mandalorian was, it seemed he had gained the Darksaber recently. Which meant... there was a good chance Vizsla could claim it for himself.

"There will be no judgment," Vizsla said, tossing his cape aside and readying his staff. The sight of it made Glynda's skin crawl, but she still didn't falter. "Whoever you are, you seem to know much of our history. And the legacy of that blade. So tell me, why is your first act to punish your own-?"

"Ni cuy' nayc vod be Kyr'tsad," Djarin said. (I am no brother of Death Watch.)

"...Ni liser haa'taylir ibac," Vizsla retorted. "Su, tion'jor cuyir gar olar?" (I can see that. So, why are you here?)

"Bah ganar eyn tomad." (To have an ally.) Djarin gestured to Glynda, who was confused beyond any belief.

Vizsla and the other Mandalorians laughed again. "So you'll kill us for her?" Vizsla asked. "Let's raise the stakes, then." Tapping the staff on the ground, Vizsla watched it transform into his fiery weapon. He was going to enjoy branding this false Mand'alor. "As leader of Death Watch and descendant of Tarre Vizsla, I exercise my right to challenge." He pointed the seal of Death Watch at Djarin.

Djarin looked back at Glynda, whose facial expression reminded him of why he was here in the first place. So he accepted the challenge to a duel by moving forward and holding the Darksaber towards Vizsla. After a few seconds of silence, the combatants rushed towards each other and locked their weapons, the Darksaber hitting the Beskar rod of the spear.

Vizsla looked back to his Wraiths as he held on. "Give the woman her weapon back... and kill her," he ordered.

"No!" Djarin yelled as he watched the three Wraiths throw Glynda back her riding crop and charge at her. This distraction left an opening for Vizsla to hit Djarin with his staff and knock him to the ground.

"Not so fast," he said. "Your fight is with me."

As Djarin continued his duel with Death Watch's leader, Glynda haphazardly attempted to defend herself against the Wraiths. Having her weapon and Semblance back helped, but the Mandalorians were fast and close. So close that the projectiles her Semblance could make would be impractical. All she could do was focus on defending herself and use her Telekinesis to throw whatever she could at the savages.

"Stop taking cheap shots, and fight us like you mean it!" one Wraith yelled, growing bored of hitting Glynda's shield and avoiding whatever she threw his way.

Dalso was also getting tired, but he didn't want the fight to be over just yet. No, he wanted to savor every moment of fear and anger this Huntress had to give, which caused him to have the idea of throwing away his rifle and picking up Unfair Deal. Using the sword on the shield, Dalso could see Glynda's shock at the turn of events. "I never saw your friend use this the day we met," Dalso admitted. "Let's see what it can do!" The other Mandalorians followed his lead and grabbed Samson's shield and Altan's hammer, ready to finish what they started long ago.

As Glynda saw the Mandalorians attack her with Team AGSV's weapons and knock her down a hill, a rage built inside her. How dare they take what didn't belong to them? How dare they try to scare and humiliate her with reminders of her first failure as a Huntress? If Glynda had the chance to meet Death Watch after her friends died, it was likely she would crumble under the pressure and trauma she endured, leaving her open to die.

But now, Glynda was tired. She was tired of feeling scared, tired of not acting on her inner desire for vengeance. And most of all... she was tired of watching these Mandalorians tarnish the memory of Team AGSV. She was ready to end it all, and Death Watch had unwittingly given her an amazing opportunity.

As she used her Semblance to push all the Wraiths back, Glynda Goodwitch readied herself to relive another memory. But this wasn't going to be one that brought comfort or warmth, not one that made the Huntress hate herself. No, Glynda was reliving her days as a third-year student at Beacon. And now... it was time for Team AGSV to spar with their weapons. Right now, she knew their moves like the back of her hand.

Glynda readied her riding crop just as Victor fired three arrows at her. So she used her Semblance to make the arrows fly back at him, leaving him vulnerable to a rain of purple projectiles.

Samson suddenly jumped in front of her and slashed at her with his shield. He had done it so many times that Glynda was able to follow the movements and avoid each attempt. Once he ran out of breath, Glynda knocked him off his feet and sent him flying towards Altan.

Altan pushed past Samson as he charged with his hammer, red electricity sparking around his body. The electricity made it look like he was flying in the air, but Glynda simply moved a couple of feet to avoid the hammer. And once he immediately swung with a counterattack, Glynda was able to stop it with her Semblance and make the spin uncontrollable, landing more projectiles into his back.

A strike to her back made Glynda remember Victor, who had combined Unfair Deal into its sword breaker form. But Glynda was quick to recover and created another shield before he could strike again. She then performed a flip that consequently made her shield fly towards Victor and hit his entire body.

A familiar sound caused Glynda to turn and stop Akoúo̱ from hitting her face. With the shield in her grasp, Glynda used it to attack her teammates rather than throw it back to Samson. The shield moved like a pinball, hitting each member of Team AGSV twice before it fell to the ground.

Altan was the only one left standing while Victor and Samson were on the ground. Altan took to the air again, and so did Glynda. She immediately sent more projectiles his way, which he couldn't block with Donryu. So when he fell to the ground, Glynda followed him and finished him off with a kick to his jaw.

That was when Team AGSV turned back into three unconscious Mandalorians.

Glynda did it.

She defeated three members of Death Watch.

The same three who took her friends from her.

The Mandalorians were stronger and faster, but the Huntress was smarter.

Glynda Goodwitch just proved that she was better than these murders. She didn't need Ozpin or Djarin, and she could finish it right-

Wait.

Djarin.

He was still at the top of the hill, fighting for his life.

Glynda couldn't leave him there. So she quickly and quietly made her way back up the hill. Making sure nobody could see her, Glynda watched as the battle between Djarin and the leader of Death Watch continued their battle. Her fight with Death Watch felt like it was quick, but she remembered how it was three minutes straight. If the same amount of time passed here, they must be tired by now.

Glynda's theory was proven true when Vizsla took sharp breaths before he pushed his weapon down on Djarin. If he was tired enough to prolong an attack like this, Djarin had to be exhausted as well. But in the position he was in, victory wouldn't come very easily. At least... not without a bit of help.

As Vizsla caught his breath and thrust his weapon on his pinned opponent, Glynda used her Semblance to make the staff move to the right. It just missed Djarin's head, and it caused Vizsla to lose his footing. Once he fell to the ground, Djarin recovered and used his jetpack to get back on his feet. He then fired tiny projectiles from his gauntlet at Vizsla, each one hitting either Beskar or an exposed part under the armor. And a quick strike from the black sword Djarin was holding rendered Vizsla's jetpack useless.

Once he tried to use his flamethrower, the fire moved back to Vizsla's face. Djarin didn't attempt to explain the phenomenon, he finished the fight by grabbing Vizsla's arm and sending an uppercut to his chin, knocking his helmet off and breaking his Aura.

Every Mandalorian gasped at the sight of their leader at the mercy of Din Djarin. They remained in shock once they saw Glynda walk up to Djarin, victorious over the Wraiths who foolishly used weapons and attacks she knew by heart. She joined Djarin as he stared at a man with shaved blonde hair, who wore nothing but shame on his face.

Glynda looked over to Djarin. "What now?" she asked.

"That's for you to decide," Djarin responded, turning the Darksaber off.

"What? But you said you would judge them."

"I judge them to be judged by you." Djarin gestured to the defeated Mandalorian. "This wasn't my battle, Glynda. It was always yours. You make the choice."

"..."

Glynda looked down on the man who had taken everything from her. Words couldn't describe the feelings of contempt or anger she was feeling. She wanted nothing more than to kill Pre Vizsla and every other Death Watch member that was standing by her. But she knew, deep down... she wouldn't do it. Glynda didn't know if it was because she wasn't strong enough to act on her dark desires or if she was strong enough to resist the temptation to make herself like the Mandalorians... but she made a different choice.

She pulled out her Scroll and made a call.

"James? It's Glynda. I need a favor."

An hour later, multiple Atlesian airships came and picked up the Mandalorians, all except Djarin. Glynda didn't know what would happen once she testified at their trial. Maybe they would be imprisoned for life, or perhaps they would be given the death sentence. But as she walked back to Djarin's ship with him, all she knew was that she was going to watch every second of their trial and punishment.

"We'll get some rest when we get back to Beacon," Djarin said as he prepared to take the Razor Crest off the ground. "It shouldn't take-"

"We can't go to Beacon."

Djarin turned to Glynda, who was looking at the weapons she gained from Dalso and the Wraiths. "What?" he asked.

"We need to make a few stops," Glynda said as she looked up. "I can tell you whereas we go along."

"Our work here is done," Djarin reminded her. "We should go back, do what you need to do another-"

"You owe me," Glynda spat. "I'm still not happy about being used as bait."

"..."

Djarin sighed as he lifted the ship off the ground. As the land below them turned into the ocean, he looked back to Glynda. "Where are we going?"

"I'll tell you in a moment."

Djarin looked back at the control panel to see how fast the new Razor Crest could go. He was hoping Glynda's next mission would be fast. All the Mandalorian wanted to do now was see his daughter after a long day's work. But all he could do now was hope that she was doing fine on her own.

"You are connected to the power of the Maidens. Now, concentrate on what lies before you. Transform it."

Cinder's palms released a wave of fire towards a slab of metal before her. The fire reached the slab with no problem, and it stayed in the center. Cinder clenched her eyes tighter, concentrating on her attempts to intensify her fire. After a few more seconds, the child dropped her hands and began to pant. The fire in her eyes disappeared as she caught her breath.

Ozpin walked past her to examine the slab. The only difference he could see was a scorch mark in the center. Other than that, there were no changes. But this was the opposite of what Ozpin planned.

"I'm sorry, it appears your fire isn't reaching the melting point yet," Ozpin said as he walked back to Cinder. He was about to help her stand up but moved his hand back once Cinder slammed her fist on the ground.

"Come on!" the child cursed herself, looking at the slab. "I should have done this by now!"

"I never said that, Cinder. I just assumed your continued use of fire would be slightly different than some Maidens."

"It should be." Cinder stood up. "I'm going to try again." Her eyes began to burn, but Ozpin prevented her from trying to burn the slab.

"You can try again later. For now, take a moment to-"

"I can't," Cinder said as she moved past Ozpin. "I got tired using these powers before. If I can't work past that, something bad could happen."

It was hard not to respect Cinder's determination and constant attempts to do better. Ozpin had known many Huntsmen, Huntresses, and Mandalorians who thought as Cinder did. But he knew the consequences of someone who worked themselves to the bone. So as Cinder's fire died down once again, Ozpin put a hand on her shoulder. "The sharpest blade in all the lands is useless in untrained hands," he said. "But I wonder what they say of over-trained hands?"

Cinder looked up at him. "I wouldn't call myself 'over-trained,'" she retorted. "Didn't we just get started?"

"If 'just get started' means 'working for almost a straight hour,' then I would say so." Ozpin gestured to the door with Cinder. "Why don't we take a five-minute break? Lunch will be served soon."

"I'm not that hungry. But... I guess I'd like some water." Cinder's eyes burned as she made an icicle in her hand. Her palm suddenly grew hot as the ice melted, leaving a puddle of fresh water for her to drink.

Ozpin chuckled as he pressed the button to his office. "Such creativity at such a young age," he noted.

"Dad taught me to think outside the box when fighting," Cinder said as she finished her drink. "But I've been able to do that at other times." Cinder made another icicle and drank the melted water. "Maybe... a little rest would be fine."

"Have a seat," Ozpin said as he walked into his office. He poured himself a drink from his teapot and began to drink in his chair. "I'm glad you're someone who knows their limits."

"Well... I don't want to just rest. I was wondering if we could finish our talk."

"Hm?" Ozpin suddenly remembered what Cinder was referring to. "Ah, you mean this." He extended his hand to create another green orb but flexed his hand to make it disappear. "I'm sorry for changing the subject so quickly, I wasn't sure how to tell you. And I would appreciate it if what I share with you stays in this room."

"Okay." Cinder moved her chair closer, giving Ozpin her undivided attention. "So... what was that, exactly?"

"A gift from the Gods, one that everyone was free to use. We called it 'Magic.'"

"Ma-?" Cinder couldn't finish the word, since it was the last one she expected to hear. "You're kidding."

"Quite the opposite. When the Gods created Humanity, Magic was their first gift to them."

"Is that why we have Auras and Semblances?" Cinder grew a little excited at the connection. "Are they Magic too?"

"In a way. They are a fraction of the power Humanity once possessed... hence the name 'Semblance.'"

Cinder was still excited to learn more, and there was one thing she wanted to know above all else. "Why do you keep using that word? Did the Faunus not know how to use Magic?"

"Well... they really couldn't do anything. Mostly likely because of the reason that they didn't exist."

"What?"

"Yes, the world of Remnant was once ruled solely by the Magic wielding Humanity. One that I was once a part of."

Cinder was too immersed in the story to think about asking for proof. Besides, it seemed Ozpin's Magic was proof enough. So, she kept hounding him for more information. "So, what happened?" she asked. "What changed?"

"...Everything." Ozpin turned his swivel chair to stare out the window. "I told you the Gods lived among Humanity, bestowing the gifts of creation, destruction, choice, and knowledge. They left Remnant after a rebellion occurred. Someone wanted the power of the Relics for herself. That someone continues to be a rebel against peace. Her name-"

"Salem."

Ozpin couldn't see it, but Cinder's eyes were burning as bright as the rage built inside her at the mere notion of the witch. But the Headmaster could tell she was angered by the sound of her voice. "Salem led the rebellion, yes. And the Gods fought her and all who believed her. But she isn't entirely to blame." Ozpin turned his chair back. "Salem's actions were a result of my own."

"You?" Cinder asked in confusion, the fire disappearing. "I don't understand. Salem caused the rebellion, she made the Gods leave with their Magic. That can't be your fault."

"It's all my fault. Cinder, I've made more mistakes than any man, woman, or child on Remnant. And I don't mean to exaggerate." Ozpin looked at the contents of his mug, the hot beverage starting to grow cold. "You told me you read her story. I trust you read the epilogue most versions lack?"

"..."

Cinder could never forget the day she read what she read. How Ozma rescued Salem from the tower, and they lived 'happily ever after.' She didn't put all the pieces together until now, and this only caused the fire to return along with her anger. "Ozpin... what did you do?" she mercilessly asked.

"Salem used me, used that story to gain sympathy from-"

Cinder slammed her palms on the desk as she leaned closer. "What... did you do?"

Ozpin knew he should have expected this from Cinder or anyone else who heard what he was saying. He also knew that prolonging the answer to her question would have disastrous consequences. So he replied with the answer she was looking for. "I helped Salem escape from the tower."

Smoke began to rise from the table. Cinder's powers had activated again, making her palms burn the table more than her Semblance ever could. "You set her free?" the child angrily asked.

Ozpin put a hand on his cane as he stood up. "Yes."

Cinder didn't back down. "The Gods left Remnant because youset her free?"

"That was a consequence, yes."

"And now she's after my father and me because you set her free?!" Cinder's hands began to sink into the desk, melting the material. "The Gods, the Relics, Humanity, it's all because you set Salem free!"

"...And I've been properly punished."

"...Huh?"

Ozpin walked over to Cinder. "As I said, I have made more mistakes than anyone on Remnant. I've seen Gods walk among men, empires rise and fall, and I've been forced to live through it all. I'm... cursed."

Cinder lifted her hands. "Cursed?"

Ozpin nodded. "I tried to stop Salem when I found her true intentions. But I failed. As punishment for that failure, I wasn't allowed to leave this level of existence."

"Are you saying you're... immortal?"

Ozpin nodded. "For thousands of years, I've walked the surface of Remnant, living, dying, and reincarnating in the body of a like-minded soul. It's... an extraordinarily strenuous process on everyone involved."

Cinder's anger faded away, and she felt a strange sense of sympathy for the old man. He was right; it seemed that Ozpin faced some kind of judgment for his mistake. And yet, it seemed that he hadn't given up; the fact he wished to train Cinder showed that he was willing to continue his fight. It was admirable, Ozpin thought like... a Mandalorian.

"You said you failed to stop Salem before," Cinder said.

"And we must stop her now," Ozpin said. "We should start... by controlling your power." He pointed back to the melted desk. Cinder looked at the mess she made, at the desk she unconsciously destroyed.

"Oh, no," she said. "I'm sorry, I-"

"It's alright, Cinder," Ozpin assured her. "I knew learning all this would have consequences, but we don't need to worry about that now. Once again, I'd appreciate it if this stays between us. You are the first person I've shared all this with in a long time."

"But doesn't Professor Good-?"

"Glynda knows of Salem, the Relics, and my curse, along with a few others on Remnant. However, my actions prior to the Gods leaving are something I reserve for those I trust the most. Or those who found out for themselves."

Cinder looked down at the desk and realized that keeping this a secret was the least she could do to make up for her temper. So she agreed by nodding. "Thank you," Ozpin said. "Now, perhaps we should focus on more... controllable training."

Glynda stepped off a tram car to a park in a cold city. She made her way through the park, watching children play in the grass and adults watching them on metal benches. The black circular bag the Huntress was holding was heavy, but that didn't stop her from making her trip. She stopped in front of a line of brick houses all joined together at their walls. Looking at her Scroll to see an address, Glynda looked at the building to see its address was a match for the one on her Scroll. So she walked up the stairs and knocked on the door.

After a few seconds, the front door opened to reveal a little girl, no older than five. The girl had a ponytail of dark red hair and was wearing a golden dress. She looked up at the guest with wide green eyes. "Hello," she politely said with a smile.

"Good afternoon," Glynda said with a forced smile, feeling somewhat nervous being at the house. "I'm sorry to bother you, but I was wondering if your mother was home."

Before the girl could reply, a voice called out from the house. "Is that the mail, Pyrrha?"

The little girl turned around. "Someone wants to see you, Mommy."

Just then, a woman around Glynda's age stepped up behind the girl. She had red hair just like her daughter's, but it was much shorter. She was wearing big glasses and a brown winter jacket with fur on the neck and hands. She looked to her guest with uncertainty, then turned back to her daughter with a smile. "Thank you, Pyrrha." The girl walked back inside, leaving her mother to speak with her guest. "Can I help you?"

"Um... yes," Glynda answered, fixing her glasses. "You probably don't remember me, but we've met before. My name's Glynda Goodwitch, I was-"

"Oh, yes," the woman instantly remembered. "You were... you were Sam's teammate at Beacon. We met when I came to visit him."

"Yes, that's right." Glynda took the bag's strap off her shoulder and began to open it. "I'm sorry to drop by unannounced and... make you remember what happened, but I found something that once belonged to your brother. And I think it should be back where it belongs." She opened the bag to reveal Samson Nikos' shield, and the woman gasped. "This was Sam's weapon, he called it-"

"Akoúo̱." The woman held out her hands for the shield, which Glynda gladly gave to her. She rubbed her hand on the metal, examining every detail she could. "I... when they found him, they said they couldn't find this."

"I know. I'm sorry you waited so long, Sam told me it belonged to his family."

"It was meant to be an heirloom. My father made it just for him." The woman began to cry, so she dried her tears and looked back at Glynda. "I thought I'd never see it again." She began to smile. "It's really beautiful, isn't it?"

Glynda looked down at the shield and began to tear up herself. "He should be standing here," she said.

"He is."

Glynda looked back up to see the woman pointing to a picture on the wall. It was a picture of her with Samson, flashing his usual grin. Glynda looked at the picture as Ms. Nikos continued to talk. "He understood that he had a responsibility... to try. I don't think he would regret going on that mission. Because a Huntsman would understand that you can't choose all your battles. And a Huntsman is what he always wanted to be."

Glynda looked back to Ms. Nikos and smiled. "Samson never got the chance to graduate... but he was a Huntsman."

Ms. Nikos dried another tear but continued to smile. "Thank you."

"You're welcome." Glynda stepped away from the door and made her way back to the stairs. The women waved goodbye as Ms. Nikos closed her door, and Glynda walked back through the park of Argus.

Using her resources as both a Huntress and Professor at Beacon, Glynda was able to search for Team AGSV's relatives. She had met them before, but she never knew where they lived. But once she learned where she could find them, Glynda visited each family to return the weapons she recovered from Death Watch. And once she reached the Razor Crest to find Djarin waiting, she gave him their next destination. "That was the last one," she said. "We can go back."

Djarin wordlessly took the ship off the ground and flew it away from Argus. Just like the voyage from Vytal, the ride was silent. Glynda decided not to tell the Mandalorian how she helped him in his battle, not seeing a point in doing so. But she nonetheless broke the silence. "I think it's time we talked," she said.

Djarin sighed before turning back to her. "Look, that wasn't part of my plan," he said, referring to leaving Glynda behind. "Sometimes I have to improvise, and I couldn't-"

"We can talk about that later," the Huntress cut her off. "Don't be mistaken, I'm beyond furious about your 'improvising.' All I want to say right now is... thank you."

Djarin put the Razor Crest on autopilot as he turned the rest of his chair to show that Glynda had his undivided attention. "You're thanking me?"

"I know, it's a first." Glynda rolled her eyes but quickly regained her focus. "Ever since that day... I couldn't stop thinking about Death Watch or my team. That was something I hated, really. I wanted to do nothing but find out who killed them and make things right. But for some reason... I never did."

"You were scared," Djarin said.

"There were times when I wanted to walk out of my apartment or classroom and search every inch of Remnant for them. But I never did. So, yes... I was scared. Scared it would happen all over again."

"I'm... sorry... if you felt like that today."

"Don't be. It was inevitable... but I finally did it. I was never brave enough to do what we did today, but I think... you helping me was more than with just Death Watch." Glynda held her hand out to Djarin, which he awkwardly shook. "So thank you. And for whatever it's worth... I can finally see why Cinder likes to be with you. Don't get me wrong, you're still... odd. But you're a good person, Djarin. And I can tell she thinks you're a good father."

Perhaps he needed some reassurance he was good to Cinder or to know that Glynda wouldn't hurt him again. Djarin couldn't explain it either way, but hearing Glynda say that meant the world to him. "...Thank you."

Glynda lowered her hand and looked out the window. "Are we near the rest of Sanus?"

"We are. We should be back at Beacon after noon."

"I'd actually like to go somewhere else first. Would you mind?"

Djarin looked back at the time displayed on his ship's computer. "I think Cinder might be-"

"It'll only be a minute. And it's on the way to Beacon."

"...Where are we going?"

Glynda showed him a new address on her Scroll, which was one their way to Beacon. The rest of the flight was silent, as Djarin understood why she wanted to go.

[Play 'Broken-Seether' on YouTube]

The Razor Crest landed in a clearing in the woods. Once the door opened, Glynda began to walk on a dirt path that led outside the woods and into a mass graveyard. She never made the trip through the woods, but she had been here enough times to find the place she wanted to go.

After a few minutes of walking between white headstones, she stopped in front of three, each of them with a specific name.

Altan Zaffre

Samson Nikos

Victor Embers

Sighing and attempting to ignore the cold air around her, Glynda began to make a speech. "Hello, everyone," she said with a smile. "I'm sorry I haven't seen you lately, things have... been busy. I guess you can say my world got a whole lot bigger."

Glynda thought about how everything changed after her team died. Not just with the Mandalorians, but with Ozpin and Salem. But she quickly realized that wasn't important at the moment.

"Listen... the reason I'm here isn't for me, but for all of you. I... I found the people who did this to you. I found the ones who murdered you and the one who burned me. I'm sorry to say that... they're not dead. They'll be facing justice, and I'll be there to see it. I still don't know if it was the right... or smart thing to do. But they seem to feel punished, and that may be enough for me."

Glynda kneeled in front of the graves. "I found your weapons and gave them to your families in the hope they would gain some kind of closure. They all miss you. I do too." She could feel a tear fall down her cheek. "I also... want to apologize. Not just for our mission, but for breaking my promise. A Mandalorian helped me find the ones who killed you. I... He..."

Glynda's soft tears turned into sobs as she remembered what she said all those years ago. "I know, I know I made a promise to you. But I was just angry. And things changed. This Mandalorian, he's... like the others, but also different. He's not only a good person, but he's also a father. A father to a very special child. It took me a long time to figure that out, but I did. Please, don't be mad."

Just as she said that, the cold air began to disappear. It was replaced with warmth, and the sun began to appear out of the dark clouds. Glynda stopped crying at the sight and feeling of the new environment, unable to explain what had just happened. Maybe the weather channel expected this change, that it was supposed to happen today. Or maybe... Glynda had just earned forgiveness.

The Huntress normally wasn't one to believe in miracles, but the weather change made her feel happy. So, she decided to make an exception to her normal beliefs. "Thank you," Glynda said with a smile. "I'll visit more frequently, I promise." As she stood up and began to walk away, Glynda turned back for one final word. "I love you all."

[End music]

Cinder had finished her training for the day and had no more questions for Ozpin. So she found herself walking back home, thinking about everything she learned. Although she was happy with her improved fire abilities, her thoughts were mainly about what Ozpin told her.

If she was being honest, Cinder was still upset about what she learned. The fact that Ozpin was tricked by Salem and the world changed for the worse was a lot to mull over. On one hand, Cinder felt like Ozpin shared the blame, that things would be different for everyone if he just left the woman alone.

On the other hand... this was how Salem did her work. She planted seeds of doubt into people's mind and happily watched them grow. Cinder had first-hand experience with this.

So she couldn't blame Ozpin for everything. She would still keep the truth between themselves, but if anyone else deserved to know, it would be her father. Maybe a talk with him would shake the feelings she would have. But this... this was serious. As she opened the door to her home, she was thinking about how rare it would be for her to feel better today, about everything she learned.

"There you are."

The sound of her father's voice caused Cinder to look up from the ground and see a dirty Din Djarin, who had just put food on their table. Seeing him, despite how dirty and tired he looked, caused Cinder to forget about everything that happened earlier and fill her heart with joy once again.

Djarin was exhausted after what happened; he felt like he was about to drop once he entered his room and put the food he had bought earlier on the table. But seeing Cinder run up to him as fast as lightning with a wide smile brought all his energy back as he kneeled and hugged her.

"Dad, you're home!" Cinder yelled with glee. "I missed you so much!"

"I missed you too," Djarin confessed honestly. "Today was... busy."

"I told you I should've come."

Djarin chuckled as he removed his helmet. "Well, it's over now. I brought some lunch, are you hungry?"

Cinder and Djarin began to eat the food he had brought. The conversation they shared was mostly about Djarin's adventure with Glynda and how the fate of Death Watch would be placed in the courts.

"So you still have the Darksaber?" Cinder asked.

"For the moment," Djarin answered. "Until I find a new wielder for it."

"You're going to give it away? How come?"

"I meant what I said when we met Clan Vizsla. I'm no leader. So I'm going to find someone worthy who is."

"What happens then?"

Djarin looked up from his plate. "What do you mean?"

"Whoever takes it might try to unite Mandalore or enslave others like Gideon did. Of course, you wouldn't find someone who'd want to do what he did. So... why can't you try to reunite Mandalore?"

"Cinder, I-"

"No, just hear me out." Cinder whipped a napkin on her face before talking again. "That man, Clan Vizsla's leader, had a lot of good points about you. Mainly about freedom."

"You're right, but I'm not a leader. Can you think of a time when I led someone or a group of people?"

"..."

Cinder knew Djarin better than anyone and given their time together, she couldn't think of a time when he was a leader. When Gideon attacked Nevarro, he didn't lead the Mandalorians. And he didn't lead her rescue, just took part in it. He was right: he wasn't a leader.

"Well... you're the only one who believes in Salem right now," Cinder continued. "We... might need the Darksaber to unite the Mandalorians, though. That's good... right?"

"To attack Salem?" Djarin assumed. She nodded, and Djarin was about to say it was a good start to a plan. But he stopped himself when he noticed Cinder's shift in attitude at the mention of the witch. "Something wrong?"

"Not exactly. I just... learned a lot about Salem today."

"Like what?"

Cinder told Djarin everything she learned from Ozpin. The Gods, the Relics, and Salem's ultimate goal for Remnant. As she spoke, Djarin could hear a new tone in her voice. She wasn't just scared; she seemed... uncertain. It seemed Cinder had no sense of hope about the conflict, given what she had learned. And the Mandalorians were her only hope.

"That's... hard to swallow," Djarin confessed, putting down his fork. "And... you're right, the Mandalorians can definitely help us should the need come. So let's make a plan." Cinder looked up from her dish. "First, I'm going to find a clan and use the Darksaber to talk to their leader. Then, we talk about Salem and why we need a new leader. If they accept or deny our request, we act accordingly."

Cinder began to smile at the plan. While she was upset that her father wouldn't be leading them in the future, she was happy they had some idea about what to do. So she took the offer in a heartbeat. "And in the meantime... I'll be the best Maiden there ever was." She clenched the napkin in her hand. "No matter what."

Author's notes: hey, everyone. Sorry this came a day late, I got a little sidetracked. I hope you enjoyed this chapter, feel free to leave your thoughts. I'd love to hear what you have to say.

TheCourtofTalons · Aug 23, 2023

Chapter 25: The Jedi

The darkness that surrounded the sleeping man transformed into light as he opened his eyes. But this was strange; he had no memory of falling asleep. In fact, he had a strange gap in memory of the events that made him fall asleep in the first place.

"He's waking up!"

"Someone get the Headmaster! Quickly!"

Two voices surprised the man as he tried to move from his bed. "Wha-? Grr!"

A nurse rushed over to place her hands firmly on her patient. "Stay still, you've been injured!" A loud cough was the only response she received. The sound of the office door opening and the set of footsteps behind her didn't make her move, as her patient was still insistent on getting up.

"Is he alright?" Ozpin asked calmly.

"His Aura kicked in as soon as he woke up, but his chest must be bothering him," the nurse replied, who took her hands away as her patient became aware of what was going on. "As of right now, his chest was the only thing affected. But he should stay here for a little bit to make sure nothing else is wrong."

"I agree." Ozpin turned to the man on the hospital bed. "Mr. Djarin, it would be wise for you to listen. You took a very bad hit."

"..."

The Mandalorian looked down to his chest to see that his part of his armor was removed and a few lines of gauze was in its place. His armor was next to him, and his helmet hadn't been removed. "What... What happened?" he asked with a cough.

"Nurse, I'd like to speak with your patient alone," Ozpin politely requested. "I'll call for you if we need anything."

"Of course, sir," said the nurse, who made her way out of the room with her partner.

Djarin began to shift his position on the bed, even though his chest still hurt. Just as the nurse said, he engaged his Aura as soon as he felt the pain, but the rest of his body wasn't hurt. At the moment, Djarin felt like he had just been crushed like an ant under a boot. He needed answers, and he needed them now. "Ozpin, what happened?" he asked again.

"I'm afraid you were in a training accident," Ozpin replied as he sat in a chair next to the bed. "One of... Cinder's actually."

"What?" Djarin began to move again, but Ozpin put a hand on his shoulder. "Where is she?"

"..."

"Is she alright?"

"...Physically, yes. Unfortunately, I don't think she's doing very well."

"Why? Was she in the accident?"

"No, Mr. Djarin. Cinder... caused your accident."

Earlier

Cinder and Ozpin were training once again in the room below Beacon Tower. Ozpin had been focusing on Cinder's defenses by attacking her, and she was able to counteract with her fire and wind. After she insisted on advancing, Ozpin began to have doubts she was ready. Cinder's counterattacks were potent, but they were overpowered and unfocused. And with each passing day, her patience became thinner and thinner. Today, she lost all control in her lessons.

"I already told you, I can do this!" Cinder yelled as she let a fire ball make its way to Ozpin.

The ball impacted with Ozpin's cane and exploded, but Ozpin was able to use his Aura to block the flames and hit Cinder in the side. "Are you sure?" he dubiously asked, sending another strike towards her.

Cinder was able to use her wind to blow the cane off course and land to the side. "Why do you keep asking me that?" she demanded, annoyed at the repetition she was enduring. "This lesson should have been over by now!" The fire in her eyes continued to burn, shining upon the dark walls she was close to. "I mastered this days ago!"

Ozpin had heard something similar for the past few days, and now he was starting to lose patience himself. "A student doesn't decide when a lesson is learned," he said as he picked up his cane. "A student normally listens and learns, not complain in order to get their way." He lunged at Cinder again, who took to the air and continued attacking Ozpin. He was able to quickly deflect all blasts of fire before lunging in the air.

Cinder's anger and impatience boiled to the surface as she performed her next attack. Rather than creating more waves of fire or a gust of wind, Cinder suddenly launched a tornado of fire from her hands, catching Ozpin in the center. As he spun and felt his clothes begin to burn, Cinder threw him in the direction of the elevator with a yell.

Ozpin was in disbelief as he hit the ground. He never taught Cinder that move, and he couldn't remember the last time she had such a powerful offense. As he began to stand up, Cinder landed in front of him and the tornado began to surround her body.

"Cinder, listen to me!" Ozpin pleaded, fearing the consequences and damage of her lashing out. "You're not ready to do what you're doing, this is too powerful for someone your age! You need to focus on-!"

"On what?!" Cinder spat. "I already mastered this lesson!" The ground beneath Cinder began to crack. "And yesterday's lesson!" A chunk of the ground began to rise, as Cinder managed to connect to the earth and use her fire tornado to keep it in the air. "When?! Are you going to teach me?! Something I don't already know?!"

Cinder launched the piece of earth with fire. Ozpin made his decision quickly, and he dodged the large projectile. As he did, the Headmaster turned to see the rock head straight to the wall.

But in its way was an unsuspecting Din Djarin, who came down to see how Cinder was doing.

The rock collided into the Mandalorian before he could activate his Semblance, not even his Aura was engaged. All Djarin could do was feel a tremendous force crash into him and send him flying backwards to the wall with a scream. The rock cracked, but didn't break once it made contact. Instead, it stayed still, leaving the Mandalorian stuck between a rock and a hard place.

Ozpin's jaw dropped at the incident, his neutral glance transformed into shock and concern. "By the Gods," he whispered to himself. Just as he did, the fire died and the rock fell down, leaving an unconscious Djarin to fall with it. Ozpin turned to see Cinder, her powers disappeared and her jaw open wider than his.

"...Dad?" she whispered, on the verge of tears.

Present

"She... She did this?" Djarin asked in disbelief.

"Not intentionally," Ozpin answered, worried what the Mandalorian was thinking. "I've known her long enough to know that she would never hurt you. She wouldn't want to do this... under normal circumstances."

"..."

Djarin stared down at his chest, and the memories in the room came back to him. He could feel the rock and flame hitting him, hear Cinder scream out in pure rage. He then realized that Cinder wasn't with them. "Where is she?" Djarin asked.

"I believe she may have gone back to her room. When you were brought here, Cinder ran away. I tried to call out to her, but she continued to run away crying."

"..."

"And that is one of the things I am concerned about now." Ozpin stood up and began to walk to the door. "She should know that you're awake."

"She will," Djarin promised. "But first, what else are you concerned about?"

Ozpin moved back to Djarin and sat back down. "I wanted to talk to you about this sooner, but I never found the time. Cinder's training has become... complicated. Not that she isn't learning, but it's the way she's been learning."

"The way?"

"I'm sure you've noticed that Cinder has been growing... frustrated. She's been using her frustration while learning to perform stronger feats than ever. I first noticed it before you came back from your mission with Glynda, but I didn't think too much of it at the time. Has she talked about this with you?"

"She comes home annoyed, sometimes," Djarin confessed. "Ever since we came here, she's been hard on herself. She wants to do better, be stronger, and she's been telling me she tries harder at each training session with you."

"She has, but she's also been growing angrier. I was hoping to control her emotions when they came to a head, but I failed. And for that, I'm sorry you got hurt."

"...She could have killed you. She... could have killed me."

"Which is why she needs to control her anger. But I can't help her with that."

Djarin began to move again, ready to move out of the medical room. "Let me talk to her," he said. "I don't know how I can help, but I can tell her what you told me." He began to lift himself off the bed. "I'll go-"

Opzin's cane pressing below his chest made Djarin stop moving. "It's not that simple, Mr. Djarin," he said. "Cinder's anger isn't that of a child simply acting out. Something like this, especially involved with a Maiden, is far more crucial than you think. She's corrupting herself, she opened a can of worms that only she can close. And I fear... she is not ready for the burden she carries."

"Of course she's not." Djarin pushed the cane away and grew frustrated himself. "Cinder's just a little girl. What else could you expect? That's why we came here in the first place!"

"I knew her training would be arduous, but I didn't consider her emotions playing such a role in her status as a Maiden."

"So give her time! She's handled worse, she can control her anger for a little while!"

"Such as you're doing now?"

"..."

Ozpin sighed as he rubbed his eyes. "Mr. Djarin, when I took you and your daughter in, I swore to myself that I would help Cinder through thick and thin. Now, I am prepared to help both you and her. And I believe I may have a solution."

"...I'm listening."

A half hour had passed since Djarin was taken to Beacon's medical room. In that time, Cinder had lost all of her pride and self-respect. After she was taken out of Beacon Tower, Cinder immediately ran back to her room and couldn't stop crying. She could still see the fire and rock hit her father, she could still hear him scream out in pain. She didn't need to see his face to know that he was afraid of her. In fact, everyone was afraid of her. Cinder knew Ozpin, Glynda, and now her own father had every right to be scared of her.

But the worst part was, Cinder had scared herself. She had no idea she was capable of such strength, or such destruction. All she could remember feeling was untamed, raw anger. It was just like the anger Aurora had when she tried to claim the power of the Fall Maiden, when Glynda recklessly attacked Djarin. Ozpin tried to tell her what she was doing, how her anger was getting the better of her. But Cinder didn't listen. Maybe out of a childish nature, or out of her hate for Salem, Cinder didn't know.

The only thing she did know was... she had turned into a monster.

*KNOCK*

*KNOCK*

Cinder didn't get up.

*KNOCK*

*KNOCK*

"Cinder?"

The Maiden could hear Ozpin's voice, but she continued to sit still and cry.

*KNOCK*

*KNOCK*

"Cinder, open the door," Ozpin called again. This time, Cinder responded.

"Go away, Ozpin," she whimpered. "I just... I can't..." She immediately resumed crying.

"Your father is fine," he called out, ignoring her request. "He wants to see you. I'd like to see you too."

Cinder got up off her bed. Drying her tears, she moved to the door and slowly opened it. Ozpin looked down on her and sighed. "We should talk."

"..."

Cinder dried her eyes again and nodded. Ozpin began to lead Cinder out of the teacher's dorms and back to Beacon, his cane softly striking the ground. He had a few things he wanted to talk to Cinder, but not only was he having trouble thinking about the first, he was worried about her reaction. He doubted she would be angry again, but he wasn't in a mood to hurt the child's feelings. So, he decided to let Cinder make the first move.

And she did.

"You were right," she confessed. "You were right about me."

"...I know," he said, maintaining his present speed. "I wish I saw it earlier." Ozpin looked down to Cinder again as he spoke and walked. "I've seen Maidens-"

"I'm not a Maiden," Cinder said. "If I were, I wouldn't have done what I did. I... I'm not ready."

Ozpin didn't kneel down, but he put a hand on her shoulder. "You wouldn't be the first. And you certainly won't be the last. All of the Maidens I've seen and trained had their flaws. Where one girl primarily acted out of her own self interest, another lacked the confidence to do what Maidens do. But one by one, they overcame their flaws, and knew what it meant to be a Maiden. In time... you will do the same."

Cinder looked down. "I need to stop acting like a child," she said. Ever since she fought in Nevarro, Cinder had a feeling her life wouldn't be normal. Even though it wasn't normal at the Glass Unicorn, she dreamed of having a better life. But Cinder had a new normal now, one that required her to forget about a normal life and do things she never dreamed of.

Ozpin shared her sentiment, he had started training Maidens that were only a few years older than Cinder. But he had another feeling he needed to convey. "It's not that simple, Cinder," he said. "I wish it was... but it's not." He began walking again, with Cinder following him. "What you did earlier was perhaps one of the strongest things you've done. But the cause of it is what scares me; your anger."

Cinder spoke from her heart again. "You might have an idea of its cause. Ever since I met Salem, I had these... feelings. I was scared, even when we started training. I was... I am scared of what she can do while I'm training." She looked up at Ozpin. "Salem won't wait until I'm ready before she tries something else."

"No, she won't. But we need to take whatever time we can get. And I think I know what's going on with you Cinder. Your fear led to your anger. And in time, that anger will lead to hate. And that hate... will lead to suffering."

Cinder stopped walking. "You're saying that like it's inevitable."

"It doesn't have to be." Ozpin continued to walk, leaving Cinder to run up to him. "Your anger cannot be easily suppressed, nor can it be removed. This is something I cannot teach you."

"..."

Cinder began to feel even more hopeless than before. She ruminated on his words, trying to find some kind of solution to her problem. But once the duo reached a building and went inside, Cinder knew what she had to say. "I can't take care of it alone," she confessed.

"I know," Ozpin confessed. "Which is why it is time for you to leave."

Cinder's gaze snapped off the floor, her neck slightly hurting from looking up so quickly. "You're kicking me-?!"

"No, I'm not throwing you on the streets," the Headmaster said, feeling some regret for scaring Cinder. "I'm sorry, what I meant to say was that you must take some time away from Beacon, to train with a new teacher. One who has experience with these feelings."

Cinder began to calm down, but Ozpin's wish left her with more questions. "Who is he?"

"The new Headmaster at Haven Academy. His name is Obi-Wan Kenobi."

"Obi... what?"

Ozpin slightly chuckled. "It's quite a name, isn't it?" He quickly regained his focus and explained more. "It's uncommon in the Kingdoms, but not where he used to call his home."

"Used to?"

"You'll learn more once you meet him. It took some convincing, but he's agreed to help you to the best of his ability."

"So, we'll meet him soon?"

"You will. But I believe it would be best if your father stayed behind."

Cinder stopped walking. "I thought you said he was fine?!" She began to tear up again. "Oh, no, how bad is-?!"

"Mr. Djarin doesn't need recovery, Cinder. But his presence will make your training... complicated."

"What? How?"

"We can talk more afterwards. You'll find your father in there."

Cinder turned to see a closed door in front of her. She recognized that this was the medical room Djarin took her when she was hurt in the fight with Corvo Nightshade. Once she realized what was on the other side of it, her body immediately became numb. She couldn't move her hands to open the door or step forward to push it. Not that she didn't want to, it was that Cinder couldn't imagine what was going to happen. Djarin had every right to turn her away, and she didn't have the strength to see what she did to him. Cinder's second thoughts had minds of their own as they slipped and whispered into her ears.

As her ideas went on a loop through Cinder's mind, the door opened to reveal the nurse who took care of Cinder after her fight. "Oh, there you are!" she said with glee. "Come on in, your dad has been asking for you."

Her doubts disappeared. "He... He has?" she asked. "So... is he-?"

"Oh, he'll be fine. Once his Aura healed, his body fixed most of the damage itself. All we needed to do was look at the bruises on his chest." The nurse gently took Cinder's hand and led her inside the room. After taking a few steps inside, Cinder and the nurse came to a bed where Djarin was sitting upright. He immediately looked down to see his surprised daughter.

"Could you give us a minute?" Djarin asked the nurse. She simply nodded and walked away. Djarin began to get up slowly, his chest still hurting. When the large rock hit the Mandalorian, his Beskar was able to protect him. But when he hit the wall, the applied pressure hurt his chest, and it became difficult for him to breathe, which was the cause of him losing consciousness. His chest was still sore, but he didn't care about that now. His immediate concern was to tend to the young girl who looked like she had been crying her eyes out, and was just about to do it again.

"Dad, I..."

Cinder wasn't able to finish as her tears began to fall again. The Mandalorian wished he could tell Cinder that he was fine, that his injury wasn't as serious as it looked. Instead of lying to her, Djarin decided that now was the best time for an honest conversation. So he led Cinder back to his bed and asked to hear her side of the story, specifically why she was so angry. After she told him what she told Ozpin, Djarin was starting to understand.

"He told me about Obi-Wan too," he said. "He said that what you're feeling is serious."

"I think he's right," Cinder replied. "What about you?"

It was at that moment that the Mandalorian decided to take a risk. He knew what he was feeling and thinking, and while he knew Cinder wouldn't want to hear it, it needed to be said. "Cinder... I can't pretend that all this didn't happen. If I wasn't wearing my armor... you could have killed me. The way you're thinking and feeling is dangerous."

Cinder wasn't expecting Djarin to be so blunt and brutally honest, but she couldn't disagree with him. "I know," she choked out. "I know."

"Then you know that this is something you need help with."

"So... you agree? About Obi-Wan?"

"I want to meet him first, to know if he can actually help. Then, we'll decide what to do."

"Okay."

"In the meantime, don't focus on your training. Don't think about your powers, your hand-to-hand, just... take a breather."

"...Okay."

Djarin laid back down on his bed. "You should head back to the room. I'll meet you there in a little while."

Cinder softly got off the bed and made her way back to the dorms. But before she left, she turned back to the Mandalorian. "I'm... glad you're alright." Rather than waiting for a response, she left the room. Djarin didn't have much of a response anyway, just a long sigh. He wished he could say the same to Cinder, but he had a feeling her situation wasn't good.

She needed help.

Help he couldn't provide.

The next day was the day Djarin and Cinder left Beacon. Rather than going straight to Haven by using his Semblance, Djarin hoped a trip in the new Razor Crest would give him time to clear the air with Cinder. After he found her asleep when he came back to the dorms, Djarin knew she was still upset over what happened. He was glad he was honest and that Cinder seemed to understand the gravity of the situation, but he was concerned about the future.

And from her silent demeanor, so was Cinder.

"The Crest has a lot more room than it did before," Djarin said after the ship took off the ground. "I think you'll find it more comfortable than before."

"..."

Cinder seemed to be a million miles away as she looked out the window. It didn't take a genius to know that she still had her mind on the accident. But that didn't stop Djarin from trying to get her to open up. "Hello? Cinder?"

The child blinked as she turned back to Djarin. "Sorry, what?" she asked. "Did you say something?"

"I was just saying that the ship is bigger than before. Maybe you'd like to see the rest of it before we get to Haven?"

"Oh. Okay." Cinder got up from her seat and walked out the automatic door. Djarin didn't try to stop her, it was clear that she still wasn't herself. He hadn't seen her this quiet since he met her at the Glass Unicorn, and he knew her reasons for that. It only made his concern for her grow even more, he knew she was suffering again. Possibly more than being a slave or a lab rat with Watts.

And the fact that she had been gone for ten minutes made things even worse.

After the eleventh minute passed, Djarin put the ship on autopilot and went to find Cinder. It wasn't hard, she was inside a small room that opened with another automatic door. She looked up at him to ask a simple question. "Are we there yet?"

"No," Djarin answered, not moving. "I just want to talk."

"I really don't want to talk right now. You can close the door on your way out."

"..."

Djarin began to stand up, but stopped himself. He heard Cinder, he knew she wanted him to leave. But his gut was telling him to stay, that she needed him more than ever. Even if she wouldn't admit it, Cinder needed to hear something from her father. So the Mandalorian knelt down again and defied her wish. "Cinder... this has to stop."

She looked up at him with a scowl. "Why?" she spat out. "If I were to do that, I'd just be lying to myself." She looked down at her knees again. "I was being stupid. Thinking I could do this, lashing out... hurting you. I was acting like a kid."

"But you are a kid, Cinder. Nobody's expecting you to be a Maiden now, isn't that why we went to Beacon in the first place?" Djarin touched her shoulder. "We're... I'm going to help you be ready."

"We shouldn't lie to ourselves," Cinder said as she shook his hand off. "Salem's not just going to wait to fight us until I'm fully trained. And going to Haven will just waste more time. We'd be better off with a new Fall Maiden." She looked back to Djarin this time. "Ozpin said it was possible to transfer the powers. Maybe we can find someone less angry and less scared."

"Cinder, I don't think we can do that. Look, I know how you feel, I know-"

"No you don't."

Cinder pushed him aside as she stepped out of the small crawlspace. "You don't know what it's like to be scared of hurting people you love," she continued. "You don't know what it's like to have this power and these rules forced on you. And you don't know what it's like to have some witch and her friends want to drain your blood."

"Cinder-"

"But I know how you feel." Cinder jabbed a finger at him. "I know you're scared. You need to stop lying. You're scared of me, just like Ozpin. Scared that I'll do something like this again until I calm down!"

"...We're both wrong, then."

Cinder put her finger down. "Huh?"

Djarin simply took her hand and led her back to the cockpit. "I'm sorry, I don't know how that feels. As for my fears... let me show you what I'm afraid of."

Djarin took the ship on another path, off the course to Mistral. He instead stayed in Sanus, but flew westward. After a few minutes, the Razor Crest landed close to a dirt path, where Djarin walked outside the ship.

"Where are we?" Cinder asked, looking around the wooded area.

"Still in Sanus, but outside Vale," the Mandalorian replied. He held out his hand to Cinder again. "Come with me."

Cinder slowly took her father's hand and he led her deeper into the woods. His only opposition was a few Grimm, but he quickly took care of them with the Darksaber.

"You're getting better with that," Cinder observed.

"I had some practice with Death Watch," Djarin said. He stopped walking as he got a familiar feeling when he looked around the area. "We're here."

"What?" Cinder asked as she looked around. "This is just the woods."

Djarin kneeled down. "This is where I was found by the Mandalorians." He picked up a patch of dead flowers and put them aside. "It's also where I'd like you to meet someone."

"Who?"

Djarin stood up. "I think... she could be considered your aunt." He moved aside and let Cinder look at a headstone with a name carved on it.

Ikki Djarin

She looked back up at the Mandalorian. "Was... Was she-?"

"My sister." Djarin put his hand on the headstone. "We were from Mantle, the city below Atlas. Things were always bad for everyone in that city, but we couldn't afford to live there anymore when my father died. So we saved what money we could to come to Vale. The money only got us a ship to Sanus, so we planned to travel by foot with my mother and friends. That's when the Grimm found us."

Cinder moved closer to the gravestone. "So... you found her? After-?"

"After I became a Mandalorian. I buried her and I come here from time to time."

"I'm sorry." Cinder looked up at Djarin. "But... why? Why did you bring me here?"

"To share a few things with you." Djarin kneeled down to her. "First off, you should know Ikki was a great teacher. She taught me a lot, tried to make me look at the bright side of things. But there's one thing I remember her telling me, something that I need you to know yourself. You're in a tunnel right now, Cinder. You think everything is hopeless and dark, since that's the only thing you're seeing. But there's something else in that tunnel."

"What is it?"

"A light. You can't see it right away, which is why you need to find it for yourself. I can't help you there, but I know you'll find it. Either on your own or when we meet Obi-Wan, you'll find it. And once you do, you'll find your way out of the tunnel and everything will be okay."

Cinder began to smile. "You really think so?"

"I know so." He looked back at the grave. "When she and my mother hid me from the Grimm, I was scared of being alone. Scared of not having a family anymore." Djarin put a hand on Cinder's cheek. "Seeing you like this... makes me scared that I'll lose another family. That whatever is going on will take you away from me, just like Gideon did. I don't want that."

Cinder grasped his hand. "Neither do I."

"Not just with your anger, but your need to think you should be better. You're just a kid, Cinder. Don't put the world on your shoulders, and don't push yourself when we meet Obi-Wan. Let things happen at their own pace. If they don't-"

"I'll be back at square one," Cinder finished. "I won't do it again."

Djarin smiled and hugged Cinder. She embraced the hug for a moment, feeling a weight come off her shoulders. "We should get going," she said. Djarin silently agreed and walked Cinder back to the Razor Crest. "I'm sorry I never got to meet your sister. I think I would've liked her."

Djarin looked down and smiled at his daughter. "Well, you're a lot more alike then you might think." It was really easy to see the physical similarities between his daughter and sister, and it had formed a warm spot in Djarin's heart.

A man wearing a hooded brown robe was sitting in the middle of a large room, a statue of a woman behind him. At first glance, one would think he looked weird, as if he was sleeping in a very peculiar way. But in reality, the man was meditating, focusing his mind on the events that would follow shortly. For he was expecting a different kind of company, one that he was both intrigued and cautious about.

His meditation was taught to him by many teachers, all of which had the goal of connecting their minds to both themselves and the world around them. After years of practice, he made a connection that made his teachers and friends proud. And even now, with his current state of mind, the act of his meditation was an easy feat. He felt connected to himself in a way that would strengthen his Aura and allow him to contact things in the material world that nobody else thought was possible.

But the rest of his meditation would have to wait, as his connection helped him sense a new presence. The company he had been preparing for had arrived.

So the man stood up, but jumped on the statue and hid in the ceiling rather than greeting his new guests. It would be wise to observe them in private to see how they interacted and what their true intentions were. And what he saw seemed to be what he was told earlier, of how a Mandalorian would walk inside Haven Academy's auditorium with a little girl.

"Here we are," said the Mandalorian. "Haven Academy."

"You came here before, right?" the child asked. "When you were looking for me?"

"Yes. And it seems not a lot really changed."

The hidden watcher was already learning much. "So, he was the man from before. The one at Satine's ball." He didn't reveal himself just yet, he wanted to know a little more.

"Didn't Ozpin say the new Headmaster would meet us here?" the girl asked. "We're in the right place, aren't we?"

"We are," the Mandalorian confirmed. "The Headmaster might be in his office if he's not here."

"What did Ozpin say about him?"

"Before we left, he actually gave me a warning. He said we shouldn't be... 'alarmed when he presents himself.'"

"Wh-What does that mean?"

"Ozpin also said he might be brave enough to try and sneak up on us."

"You think he'll try that now?"

The Mandalorian removed the rifle he was wearing on his back and took off its scope. Putting it against his vizor, the Mandalorian looked around the room. Putting it down and looking back at the child, he made his guess. "I don't think so. Nobody seems to be here."

The man slightly chuckled to himself, surprised that Ozpin chose to describe his love for surprises out of all his other qualities. So, he decided not to disappoint his guests by taking off his robe and jumping down behind the duo, still able to keep his presence hidden. They were still walking away, and he knew the best way to reveal himself.

"Hello there."

Djarin and Cinder quickly turned around and pulled out their weapons, Cinder with her swords and Djarin with his pistol. But once they came face-to-face with a bearded man in light brown robes, Djarin began to relax. "Headmaster Kenobi," he said, still holding his weapon. He began to frown under his helmet, surprised how someone was able to catch him off guard. "You are a bold one."

"I see Ozpin shared some things about me... Djarin, is it?" The Mandalorian nodded, and the Headmaster shifted his gaze to the child. "And this must be your daughter," he assumed with a smile.

"..."

Cinder didn't lower her weapons, unsure what to think at the moment. Djarin still had his pistol, but his finger was off the trigger. "Yes. This is Cinder," he said calmly. "And you're right, Ozpin told me about you. Did he...?"

"He told me everything, mostly that Cinder is the new Fall Maiden." His smile disappeared. "He also told me about the accident."

"Alright, then." Djarin began to lower his weapon, and Cinder followed his lead. He had a good feeling that nobody else was watching. If someone was, Obi-Wan wouldn't have mentioned the Maidens. But he didn't feel very safe talking about something like this out in the open. "Maybe we should talk somewhere else."

Obi-Wan began to lead them out of the room and into the halls of Haven Academy. As they passed through dorms and classrooms, the Headmaster decided to talk about something else. "So Djarin, Ozpin told me you've been teaching at Beacon Academy."

"I've been focusing on hand-to-hand without Aura," the Mandalorian replied. "After Cinder helped me with one lesson, more students have been willing to try harder and learn more."

"I see. Dangerous, but it could yield better results when fighting the Grimm. Anything else?"

"Ozpin and I have been talking about teaching the students how to modify their Dust ammunition." Djarin removed a magazine from his pistol and showed it to Kenobi. "The Mandalorians have been using this technique for decades, maximizing Dust's capabilities. Only a few know about it, even a few who are not Mandalorian."

"Remind me to ask you for a syllabus sometime. We could use lessons like these at Haven."

Cinder stopped looking at each hall and room as she heard the word "lessons," which made her curious. "Speaking of which, what is it you think you can teach me?" she asked politely.

Obi-Wan stopped in front of an elevator and smiled. "Much, my dear," he said with confidence.

The elevator ride wasn't a very long one, and after a little more walking, the trio found themselves outside another door, one that led to a large office, with a big desk and an even bigger bookshelf. The Headmaster raised his right hand, and the clan of two stopped walking. They looked around as if they were expecting danger, but they instead saw the Headmaster move his hand towards the side of the room. Once he did, two chairs lifted off the ground and found their way in front of the desk.

"Have a seat," Kenobi requested. He made his way to the large desk as the Mandalorian and Cinder sat down. The Headmaster sat down and put his hands on the desk. "I'd like to begin by saying that I'm glad you decided to come to me. If it's alright with you, I'd like to learn a little more about... the accident."

"We can explain everything," said Djarin. "But first, we'd like to know you first."

Obi-Wan slightly tilted his head. "I thought Ozpin told you-?"

"Not everything. All he told us was that you can help. He didn't say how, or why you could."

"I see." Obi-Wan seemed to understand that to the Mandalorian and his daughter, he was a complete stranger. If they were to trust him, he needed to give them a good reason to. But Obi-Wan also knew he needed to be careful with what he revealed. So he began to play the hand he was dealt by asking a question. "You seem to know about the Maidens. I can assume that means you know about the one who wants them?"

"We do," Djarin confirmed. "When we learned about Cinder's powers, my people quested me with finding Ozpin. As for Salem-"

"I met her," Cinder said. "Before finding Ozpin."

Obi-Wan was quick to notice the change in attitude. "I'm sorry to hear that," he said. "I know that must have been scary for you."

"Have you met her too?"

"Once. When I lost my home."

Cinder and Djarin looked at each other when the Headmaster said this. They both felt sympathy for him, as Djarin knew what it meant to lose a home while Cinder knew the fear of meeting Salem. "I'm sorry," the child said as she looked back to Obi-Wan. "I didn't know that-"

"Oh, I understand. If there's one thing my people excelled in, it was our ability to keep secrets. Hiding ourselves was no different."

Djarin began to have suspicions of what Obi-Wan was talking about. It was a long shot, but he couldn't ignore the similarities. "Are you Mandalorian?" he asked.

"Oh, no." Obi-Wan stood up and walked to his window. "Although... my story isn't entirely different from Mandalore's. Except my people were never as public as Mandalorians. You see, I'm a Jedi."

"A what?"

"A Jedi." Obi-Wan walked over to where Djarin was sitting. "Mr. Djarin, I couldn't help but notice the weapon you're wearing on your waist." The Mandalorian first assumed he was talking about his blaster, but he followed Obi-Wan's eyes to the Darksaber. Obi-Wan slowly extended his hand. "May I see it?"

"..."

Djarin didn't like the idea of handing a powerful weapon to someone he didn't know. Obi-Wan could try to attack him with it, or try running away with it. But he didn't want to ruin any chances he had of helping Cinder by saying "no." So he slowly took the Darksaber off his belt and handed it to the "Jedi." Once Obi-Wan had it, Djarin rested his hand on his holster and prepared to use his Semblance.

Obi-Wan moved out of harm's way to activate the Darksaber. Once he did, he found himself staring into the black light that it had produced. "Just as I thought," he said. Moving it to the left and right, Obi-Wan continued to talk. "It's truly an impressive weapon. The hilt makes it easy to wield than most weapons." Turning the blade off, he handed it back to Djarin. "Mr. Djarin, would you believe me if I told you that weapon wasn't as unique as you may believe it to be?"

"...No," the Mandalorian replied.

"I thought not." Obi-Wan moved his hands to his waist and removed a similar looking device from his belt. Pressing a button on the side, a blue blade appeared before Cinder and Djarin. Both were slightly surprised to see that the Headmaster's claim was true. "This weapon shares some similarities to the Darksaber. This is called a 'lightsaber,' the weapon of a Jedi Knight. Not as clumsy or as random as a gun. An elegant weapon... for a more civilized age." He turned off the blade and looked back at the clan of two.

Cinder was more interested in the lightsaber than Djarin was. "You made that yourself?" she asked.

"You could actually say it's a part of myself." Obi-Wan held the cylinder in front of Cinder. "This weapon is my life. This weapon... is my Aura." A blue light began to surround Obi-Wan, but it quickly moved towards the metal weapon. Just as the blade returned, Cinder gasped at the miracle.

"You... put your Aura into your weapon?" she assumed. Her curiosity grew when Obi-Wan nodded. "I've... never heard anything like that before."

"All Jedi made their weapons like this, it's a technique passed down from generation to generation. The Darksaber, on the other hand, is purely Magic. Created by Ozpin."

"You know about Ozpin? And his Magic? How?"

Obi-Wan chuckled and lifted his hands. "Because I share some of his Magic as well." Just then, numerous objects began to lift around the room and spin. Books, chairs, and the things on the Headmaster's desk became playthings to the air.

Djarin was silent while Obi-Wan explained who he was and what the Jedi were, but after seeing Obi-Wan do all of this without an Aura, he began to demand answers. "This isn't possible," he said. "Only the Maidens should have Ozpin's Magic." Cinder told him this a week ago, and this was his initial belief.

"And yet... a part of it remains," said Obi-Wan. "If you know about his Magic, then you know that he has walked the surface of this world for generations. Each new life brought new opportunities, and brought... descendants."

Cinder began to understand, but needed to confirm her theory. "Are you... related to Ozpin?"

"To one of his past lives, yes. The descendants of his reincarnations share a small link to the Magic of the first Humanity. We call it... the Force." The objects began to spin faster. "The Force surrounds us and penetrates us. It binds the world of Remnant together." The objects moved back to their proper place as Obi-Wan sat down. "Through our connection to the Force, the Jedi were able to find strength, knowledge, and peace. It is through the Force that I believe I can help you, Cinder. But first, I need to know more about what happened."

The child looked back at Djarin, who nodded. He decided that they asked Obi-Wan enough and that now was the time to share their side of the story. Cinder was still uncomfortable about sharing the details, so the Mandalorian asked her to wait outside. Once she left, Djarin explained what happened and what Ozpin told him.

"I see," said Obi-Wan, who paid attention to everything the Mandalorian said. "I believe Ozpin may be right. Cinder's anger is stemming from her fear."

"She's been desperate to do better, to intensify her training," said Djarin. "And it seems she's getting stronger when she's angry."

"Well, we can't have that. Mr. Djarin, the Jedi have used the Force to train themselves, teach themselves to resist their fear. Cinder may not be like me, but I believe I can help her."

"How long will you need?"

"It's... hard to say, really. Right now, I can say there is one thing that is certain."

"Which is?"

"You must leave, place Cinder in my care."

Djarin quickly stood up. "No deal," he said. "Wherever she goes, I go."

"I see you've formed a strong attachment to her," the Headmaster observed. "And she's done the same with you."

"We're a family. We stay together."

"As most families should. But Cinder's attachment to you makes her vulnerable to her fears. Her anger."

"All the more reason to train her."

"Indeed. But she must put that attachment aside in order to achieve true enlightenment."

"And after that?"

"..."

Djarin realized he had an opportunity to prove his point, judging by the Headmaster's silence. So he continued to speak. "Once you train Cinder, she'll be back with me. Our connection, or whatever you call it, will grow stronger. Maybe even stronger than your training. Unless... you don't plan to let her leave."

"Once her training is done, Cinder is free to leave," Obi-Wan assured the Mandalorian. "And you're right, her connection will grow stronger." Obi-Wan still had the idea this was the best course of action, but she and Djarin would never allow it. So, he proposed a compromise. "How about this? Let me train Cinder alone for one night. You'll be free to come back tomorrow."

Djarin was still unsure of leaving Cinder behind, but he knew Obi-Wan was possibly the best chance Cinder had at controlling herself. So he reluctantly took the deal and went outside to talk to Cinder.

"What's going on?" she asked.

Djarin sighed as he kneeled down to his daughter. "Cinder, you remember how I said I would follow you wherever you went?" he asked.

"Umm... yes?" Cinder replied, confused about why he was asking that.

"And you know that I wouldn't be doing anything for you if I didn't think it was for the best?"

"Of course."

Djarin put a hand on her shoulder. "After taking with the Headmaster, I-"

Cinder began to back away. "You're... leaving?"

"For one night."

Cinder began to tear up. "But... But Dad, I-"

Djarin looked around the hall, seeing nobody in sight. So he took off his helmet and put it down. "I know you're scared," he said. "I'm scared too. I don't know if this will work, but I convinced Obi-Wan to let me come back tomorrow."

"So we'll go back to Beacon then?"

"...No. But when that day is over, I'm coming back and staying with you. I don't care what anyone else says, I am not leaving you."

"Dad, I... I don't know about this. I-"

Djarin gave Cinder a piece of paper with a phone number on it. "This is how you can get in touch with me. Go to Mistral's CCT and call me anytime. I'll come straight here."

Cinder looked at the number and began to have a good feeling. She was relieved at the idea that she wouldn't be abandoned, that her time at Haven would only be temporary. But she had one more question before making any decisions. "So... you're coming back. You promise?"

Djarin kissed the top of Cinder's head. "I promise," he answered. He stood up and put his helmet on. Knocking on the door, Obi-Wan answered it.

"Is everything alright?" he asked as he looked down to Cinder.

Cinder looked at the paper Djarin gave her, then looked up at Djarin. She nodded and gestured to Obi-Wan, who was patiently waiting for an answer. "I'll stay," Cinder declared. "But Dad gets to come back after one night."

"Of course," the Headmaster promised. He then turned to the Mandalorian. "I'll have a room ready for you when you get back."

"Thank you," Djarin said. He looked down to Cinder and said one more thing. "Good luck, Cinder."

He disappeared without a word.

A group of students seated before Djarin watched as he lined up his pistol with a dummy target in front of a wall.

*BANG*

A red blast sent a hole through the target and managed to create a smaller hole in the stone wall behind it. And the hole where the target was hit had begun to burn.

"Whoa!" all the students cried. They were amazed by the act of destruction a single shot from a small pistol had just created.

The Mandalorian had continued his lessons at Beacon when he woke up that morning. Still feeling a little sore after the accident, Djarin suggested he wait a little longer before going back to combat. So Ozpin arranged for him to meet with another teacher at Beacon, Harold Mulberry. There, Djarin would teach students the effects of blaster shots compared to regular Dust ammunition. And once Djarin fired a regular Fire Dust round into the target, creating another small hole but doing nothing to the wall, they could all see the difference.

One student raised her hand to ask a question. "Are you saying we can make our guns fire shots like that?"

"Yes," Djarin replied. "It's just a matter of modifying the bullet with the Dust inside. The method I'm going to teach you can be applied to any Dust round you want."

"So we'll be tinkering with a live round?" another student asked. "Isn't that dangerous?"

"Extremely. This won't just teach you how to increase the power of your weapons, but how good attention to detail is necessary in any kind of work you do."

Djarin conducted his lesson by handing out a regular Dust round and modified Dust round to his students, in order for them to see the differences. He then made a recording of himself tinkering with the regular round to make it fire blasts. His assigned homework was for the students to watch the video as many times as they wanted, in order to be ready for their own turn to modify Dust rounds.

After everyone left, Djarin prepared to leave too. After teaching only one of the morning classes, he figured his waiting to go back to Haven was over. He didn't have to take his ship this time, his Semblance could take him back to the academy at the cost of some Aura. And it would be good to see Cinder again, even if she was still upset about the accident.

As he prepared to make his move, the Mandalorian's gauntlet began to beep. Djarin pressed a button and a blue screen appeared with a message.

Incoming Call: Haven CCT

Djarin answered it without hesitation. Once he did, the screen changed into a video call, with a smiling Cinder. "Hi, Dad," she said calmly.

"...Hi, Cinder," Djarin replied. "I was on my way to see you, are you okay?"

"I'm fine. A little tired, but I'm fine." Cinder yawned before saying something else. "I'm sorry, I just... had a really long night."

"Well, how did it go?"

"The day was hard, but, I think last night opened my eyes. I'm glad I came here."

"So it worked? Your training's over?"

Cinder's smile vanished. "I wish it was, Dad. But it's like Ozpin said... it's not that simple. I know what I need to do, just..."

"Just not how to do it."

Cinder dried one of her eyes, but smiled again for her father. "Eventually, I will. I took the first step, but it's going to be a long walk."

"Do you... Do you need me to take it with you?"

Her smile vanished again, and she took a deep breath. "Dad... this is something I need to do alone. I don't know how long it will take, but I can't come home until this is done. Until I'm ready to be a Maiden. I..." Cinder looked away for a second, and took a few more breaths. But it wasn't enough, and she began to let her tears find their way down her cheeks. "I know that's hard to hear, and I don't want you to think I don't need you. I also don't want you to be mad, but I-"

Djarin ripped his helmet off so he could look at Cinder with his own eyes. He needed her to see how he felt rather than just hear how he felt. "Cinder, I'm not mad," he said honestly. "There's never been a time when I was mad at you. If anything... I'm proud you're able to make a choice as hard as this. Believe me, I've had to make hard choices too." Djarin remembered how hard it was for him to choose Cinder over his oath to the Guild, but he never regretted it. "And I know it will be a while before we see each other again. So for now, just know that I'm going to wait for you. As long as it takes."

"..."

"Cinder?"

"Yes?"

"...You know that I love you, right?"

Cinder smiled again as she nodded and cried. "I love you too."

Now, it was Djarin's turn to smile. But it was also his turn to make a hard choice. "...Goodbye, Cinder."

"Goodbye, Dad."

The call ended.

Djarin wept.

TheCourtofTalons · Aug 30, 2023

Chapter 26: The Lesson

"Good luck, Cinder."

Djarin suddenly disappeared, leaving Cinder alone with Obi-Wan. She knew he wouldn't leave without the new Razor Crest, but she didn't need to run to the ship to see him again. She didn't have anything left to say to her father at the moment.

She instead looked to Obi-Wan when he put a hand on her shoulder. "I'm sorry," he said. "But don't worry. He'll come back."

"I know," Cinder said. "He always comes back." Feeling ready to begin, Cinder asked the Headmaster where they were going to start with her training.

"I think I know what to start with," said Obi-Wan. "Come with me."

"So, what did you say was in this room?" Cinder asked as Obi-Wan began to unlock a wooden door.

"This room contains everything I was able to save from my home," the Headmaster answered. "Ancient text, art, and everything else related to the Jedi are behind this door. Feel free to have a look around while I get what we need." Obi-Wan unlocked the door and opened it, gesturing for Cinder to take the first steps. Once she did, she wasn't very impressed. Given the fact the room was completely dark, there was nothing interesting to see. "Oh, let me get the lights."

Once the room filled with electric light, Cinder's initial judgment was cast aside. "Wow," she whispered as she looked across the room.

The Headmaster's earlier notion was an understatement for the room's potential, as Cinder stared in wonder at the paintings, sculptures, and other artifacts that the room possessed. It was almost like visiting a museum, which Cinder had never done before. "Look at all this stuff," she said as she approached an intriguing mask, white with golden accents. Right below it was another lightsaber, also white with gold accents. Once she picked it up, she surprisingly had trouble with its weight. The young girl had doubts about her ability to wield it if the blade was activated.

"Yes, I was surprised by the weight too," said Obi-Wan, who seemed to have read Cinder's thoughts.

Heat rose to her face as Cinder asked an embarrassing question. "Does it... come in kids size?"

"Of course." Obi-Wan moved to another shelf and picked up another lightsaber, one much smaller and less decorative than the last. "This was the first lightsaber I constructed when I was a few years younger than you." He handed her the cylinder and Cinder took it in an instant. The weight was much better, and Cinder felt confident in her ability to wield it like she could wield her Beskar swords. But once she pressed the button, nothing happened. So she shook it up and down and tried again. No light escaped from the top.

"Oh, I'm afraid you won't find much use for it anymore," said Obi-Wan. "Remember what I showed you in my office? The metal is just an instrument for my Aura. That's when it becomes the weapon of a Jedi Knight."

Cinder handed the cylinder back to Obi-Wan, who instead used the Force to put it back in its proper place. "Do you have any books?" she asked curiously.

"Right over here." Obi-Wan led her to a bookshelf with glowing covers. Each cover seemed to give off blue light, lighter than Obi-Wan's Aura. "I just need to find one book I'll need to start our training." He began to scroll over each book with his hand. Cinder didn't join him, she instead moved parallel to the shelf as she looked at each book, wondering what was inside each one.

But she stopped wondering when her body bumped into a wooden desk.

Cinder looked down at the desk to see that she accidentally knocked over a picture frame. She picked up the picture and looked at it closely. It was a photo of four people, Human and Faunus, dressed in robes similar to the Headmaster. What caught Cinder's eye was the young man who had a striking resemblance to her new teacher. Once she heard him walk over to her, Cinder asked Obi-Wan another question. "Is this you, Headmaster?"

"It is," said Obi-Wan, who pointed at the younger version of himself. "This was taken the day I joined the Jedi Council. Most Jedi had very little contact with the outside world, but some like the Council left our island when we were needed." Obi-Wan began to point at each person in the photo. "That's Master Windu, Master Gallia, and Master Fisto." Obi-Wan smiled fondly at the memories of his fellow Masters and friends. They were all there when he was a mere Padawan and helped him on his way to be a Jedi Master. He owed them all his life and chose to remember that every day.

Cinder's curiosity about the Jedi grew just by merely looking at the picture. Judging by Master Fisto, the fish Faunus in the picture, the Jedi seemed to accept any and all people who shared their unique gift. And it seemed that Ozpin had been around for a long time, given the amount of Jedi Obi-Wan described. She couldn't wait to learn more in the room, so she moved to put the picture back and see what other treasures were waiting to be discovered.

But just as she moved the picture into the light, Cinder noticed something hidden. "Who's this?" she casually asked as she pointed to the picture.

Obi-Wan looked at the spot Cinder was pointing to. In the corner of the room the picture was taken, there was a shadow covering the corner. And in the center of that shadow was another figure in robes. Only, his robes had a hood that covered part of his face, and they were black. Obi-Wan could make out part of the facial features, they showed a man that was slightly older than the rest of the Jedi. Obi-Wan tried to think of someone who matched the description he was seeing, but nothing came to mind. "I... don't know," he replied honestly. "I'm not sure I ever met him."

"Oh. Okay." Cinder put the picture down and looked at the book Obi-Wan was holding. "Is that what we need?"

"Yes. I was hoping we could start by going outside. I know a place where we won't be disturbed."

After going on a hike from the academy, Cinder found herself sitting on a rock in a field of trees. Obi-Wan was looking through the book he brought with them while talking to Cinder. "Before we begin, I'd like to do a small test," he said as he flipped through the book.

"What kind of test?" Cinder asked.

"Just something I feel will help me know you better." Obi-Wan put the book down as he explained his plan. "Cinder, I want you to close your eyes. Focus on my voice."

"Why?"

"As I said, I wish to know you better. Now close your eyes."

"..."

Cinder wasn't sure what was going on, but she decided to go along with the Headmaster's plan. So she closed her eyes and waited for the next instruction. "Good," said Obi-Wan, who was standing next to her. "Now, reach out."

"..."

Cinder quickly shot her right hand out towards the environment in front of her.

"Um... not literally. Try reaching out differently."

Cinder put her arm down and opened her eyes. "Huh?" she asked.

"Perhaps I should explain better," the Headmaster suggested. "I'd like to test your connection to the Force. Concentrate on the area around you, and see if the Force reaches out to you."

Cinder's new understanding caused her heart rate to increase. "I can use the Force?" she asked, excited at the possibility.

"That's what I'd like to find out. Would you like to try again?" Cinder quickly nodded with a smile. "Let's try again. Close your eyes." Cinder shifted her position on the rock and closed her eyes. "Now, reach out."

"..."

Cinder tried to focus on the area around her, she had a mental image of the trees, the grass, and the blue sky above her. Obi-Wan could tell that she was concentrating, so he decided to see what she felt. "What do you feel?" he asked.

"...Warmth," Cinder answered. "Just... warmth." The sun above the two warmed them greatly, and it caused Cinder to feel relaxed. The sun wasn't burning her, but it made her feel at peace with nature.

"Anything else?"

"...No."

"Alright, you can open your eyes," said Obi-Wan. As she did, Cinder could see that the Headmaster was slightly disappointed. "I'm... sorry for getting your hopes up."

Cinder began to feel more disappointed than Obi-Wan. It was only the first day of her training and she already failed at learning. For all she knew, this was the easiest lesson for her. But now, she was going to fail Headmaster Kenobi's next-

"No, Cinder. This wasn't part of your actual training."

Cinder looked up at the Headmaster. "How did you-?"

"I'm sorry, this was just for me," Obi-Wan continued. "Don't feel disappointed, there was a slim chance of success with matters like this."

Cinder was still wondering how Obi-Wan seemingly read her thoughts, but she had an even better question. "Suppose I was able to use the Force," she began. "What should I have felt?"

"Everything." Obi-Wan stepped in front of her and lifted his hands. "The Force is not a power I have. It is a connection to the world around us." Obi-Wan closed his eyes as he reached out into the world. "I feel a connection to all things. Like this forest. I can see life, death, and decay that feeds new life, warmth, cold, peace, and violence." Obi-Wan opened his eyes. "And between it all... balance."

"You can... see all it?" Cinder looked around, but couldn't find any signs of death or violence. "How?"

"Come with me." Obi-Wan walked deeper into the forest and gestured to everything he saw. "Here is life." He pointed to the large trees and taller grass. He then kneeled to a smaller piece of grass. "The animals buried here can feed the soil and bring new life." He stood up and looked at the sky. "The sun and wind bring warmth and cold, the wind crashing on the leaves disrupts their peace."

Cinder had been in the forest a few times in her life. Each of those times, she was only focused on her immediate surroundings, along with Djarin. But now, she had a new perspective on things. Common people would have said Obi-Wan was crazy about what he said, but the points he brought up and Cinder's willingness to learn made her believe everything he said.

It even made her feel that she had much more to explore. Cinder now wanted to explore the forest, the tall trees, and especially the cave that was a few feet in front of her.

"No!"

Obi-Wan stepped in front of Cinder, blocking her path to the cave with arms wide open. The child immediately stopped walking. At first, she assumed that Obi-Wan wanted to go back to her training. But by the look on his face, Cinder could tell he was afraid of something. That there was something in that cave he didn't want her to see.

"Wh... What is it?" Cinder asked, looking into the dark chasm.

Obi-Wan looked behind her for a moment, remaining silent. When he turned back, he put his fear aside. "You can't go in there."

Cinder stared at Obi-Wan. "Why not? Is there Grimm in there?"

"All you need to know is that cave is forbidden." Obi-Wan began to walk back to the clearing, but Cinder stayed behind. She looked back into the cave, curious as to why Obi-Wan seemed to be afraid to go in. This was the first time she saw him afraid, and Cinder knew she had to learn why.

"Is there something to be afraid of in there?" Cinder asked as she rejoined the Headmaster.

"There is something in there, Cinder," Obi-Wan replied. "Something you're not ready to face yet."

"You mean I'll see it soon?"

"At the end of your training, when you're ready. So listen to me." Obi-Wan kneeled to Cinder and looked deep into her eyes. "You must not come back here without me. It's essential that you do as I say."

Cinder looked back in the direction of the cave. "But what's in there?"

Obi-Wan took Cinder's shoulder. "Only... what you take with you. Now come along."

"..."

Cinder was annoyed at Obi-Wan's constant avoidance of her question about the cave, and it only made her curiosity grow. So she promised herself that she would find out what was in there when she had the time. But right now, Cinder's attention was on Obi-Wan leading her back to the same rock. Gesturing for her to sit down, Cinder did so as she listened to Obi-Wan's lesson. "Cinder, when you first came here, I sensed much fear in you. There's much you're afraid of, do you deny it?"

"...No," Cinder honestly answered.

"The Jedi came to understand that our fear leads us to anger. Do you agree?"

Cinder thought back on the time she hurt Djarin. She wanted to learn more about her powers to have the slightest chance of growing stronger and defeating Salem. She believed Ozpin's refusal was standing in her way to conquering Salem once and for all, and that made Cinder see her own teacher as her enemy. But she was wrong, and she was too blinded by her anger to see that. "I do," she answered.

This confirmation allowed Obi-Wan to conduct his lesson. "My master Qui-Gon's first rule was to possess the right thinking. Only then can someone receive the gifts of strength, knowledge, and peace." He sat down on a rock across from Cinder. "Anger clouds the mind. Turned inward, it becomes an unconquerable enemy." Cinder remained silent, trying her best to understand herself and her anger. "I don't know much about the Maidens, but I can tell you're unique among them."

Cinder's eyes grew wider when she heard this. "I am?"

"Most people choose to face their anger by blaming others and the world. But from what Ozpin told me, you're trying to face this enemy by self-improvement. You want to grow stronger, be the best of the best. Your ambition is remarkable, but it will be a reality once you become a master of all things." Cinder smiled at Obi-Wan's praise and began to feel some of her self-respect return. "You're on your way to becoming a master of the power within you and the elements around you. Now it's time you become a master of yourself."

"I... I understand." Cinder fixed her position on the rock. "Where do I start?"

"Through a simple act of meditation. Close your eyes." Cinder did as she was told and Obi-Wan began to guide Cinder through the exercise. "Meditation is a common exercise for the Jedi. Along with training our bodies and our Auras, we train our minds to gain an easier connection to the Force. While you cannot use the Force, you are capable of training your mind."

"To do what?"

"Be honest with yourself. Focus your mind on whatever emotions you're feeling are the strongest. Once you understand that emotion, you have the power to let it go."

Eager to make any sign of progress, Cinder focused on her anger. She thought about all the things on Remnant that made her feel angry. Naturally, her first thoughts came to the orphanage in Mistral. Her first taste of being a slave and a punching bag quickly made Cinder angry. And she only got angrier when the same thing happened at the Glass Unicorn, and all the abuse she faced for simply existing. Her last thoughts were on herself, how her failures caused her to hurt Djarin and waste time while Salem could be preparing for another attempt to steal the power of the Fall Maiden.

Obi-Wan's meditation wasn't on his emotions, but Cinder's. He could feel her anger, feel the burden she carried on her shoulder. Her attempts to focus on her anger were successful, she knew what it was about the world that made her angry.

And so did Obi-Wan.

"Very good," the Headmaster noted. "We know what angers you, and you will be reminded of these tragedies. You cannot let go of the past, so you must let go of your feelings. Let go of your fear, let go of your hate."

Cinder thought back on her sources of anger again, but the only place her emotions seemed to be going was her heart. Every bully, enemy, and failure she faced drove an invisible knife into her heart, which caused Cinder to open her eyes and take sharp breaths. "I... I can't," she confessed.

"I know," said Obi-Wan, who was more than sympathetic to her inner turmoil. "This technique takes a long time and the right teachers to guide you through the struggle. That's why you're here."

"But I don't need just a teacher. I need my dad."

Obi-Wan took a breath and sighed before replying. "Cinder, I fear that your father's presence may hamper your training, make you more vulnerable to-"

"But he's been with me all this time." Cinder stood up from the rock. "He's done so much for me, and I've tried to be there for him too. Doing this alone just feels... wrong."

Obi-Wan didn't bother trying to fight with the young Maiden. She didn't understand his way of thinking and experience, and maybe she had a point or two. "I understand. You feel you already have what you need, and that it's unwise to let it all go."

"Exactly!" Cinder was happy that she was finally being understood. "You said the importance of this meditation was to let go of emotion. I need to let go of my anger, but I can't stop loving my father."

"Maybe," Obi-Wan said as he stepped off his rock. "It's true that the Jedi detached themselves from emotions such as love. But they did this because they knew there were forces on Remnant that used love to hurt people." Obi-Wan walked over to Cinder. "I know that's hard to understand, and I know you must be frustrated from reliving your times of anger. How about we go back and start smaller? We can get some food as well."

Cinder's stomach suddenly grumbled when she heard about food. So she eagerly followed Obi-Wan back to Haven Academy.

When night came, Obi-Wan suggested that they start Cinder's meditation with just one source of anger rather than multiple. He knew the process would be long, so he told Cinder to practice long and hard before going to bed.

And that's exactly what Cinder did when she seated herself on the only chair in her new bedroom an hour ago. She reflected on her orphan years in Mistral, scrubbing the floors and struggling with starvation and bullies. Rather than thinking about them all at once, Cinder decided to go even smaller and think about all the cleaning she did. Rather than the children taking turns, everyone thought it would be best for Cinder to be the only one in charge of cleaning. Rather than face any punishment for disobedience, Cinder silently worked.

And to this day, Cinder hated being used as a slave. She hated wiping the floors and being told what to do without any choice. She could never forgive the people who chose to take advantage of her.

And yet... those days were over.

Cinder was free. Free to make her own choices, such as cleaning up a mess if she wanted to. Besides, cleaning was a natural part of life. As Cinder breathed deeper and took time to think hard about it, the chore didn't deserve any hate. Just the people who subjugated her. A dirty wooden floor and a brush couldn't hurt her.

Cinder quickly opened her eyes. She looked down to her hands to see that while she was meditating, her fingers were moving back and forth. It was almost as if she was still cleaning the floors of the Glass Unicorn.

But rather than swelling with anger, Cinder felt calm. Her motions felt natural and soft against her clothes. The memory of washing each floor and doing multiple chores was in no way pleasant, but they weren't hurting Cinder either.

"Did I do it?" the child asked herself. "Did I just... let it go?"

Cinder thought back on cleaning once again. She didn't feel any pleasure or anger, she just saw herself cleaning. Of course, when she thought back on a mistake and was punished, she felt angry. But on an average day when she wasn't watched very closely, Cinder felt calm and collected. There wasn't any hate in the simple act of cleaning.

Cinder tested her theory by taking a glass of water and spilling it on the floor. She then took a rag and moved it like she would her brush to clean the spill. She thought hard about comparing it to her time at the Glass Unicorn, but couldn't feel her anger.

She did it.

She let some of her hate go.

Cinder felt proud of herself and happy that she made the slightest hint of progress. Eager to continue her efforts, Cinder decided to think back on all the times she was hurt.

But it didn't work.

The Maiden thought long and hard about her suffering, trying to let go of any hate she had towards being punched, kicked, thrown, and electrocuted. But the pain from each blow lingered in Cinder's mind and she began to feel phantom pains in her body.

After being electrocuted once again, Cinder gave up trying again. She instead took a break and opened the small window in her room. The air cooled the sweat on her forehead and gave her time to think. Maybe she took a giant leap after her first victory, maybe she needed to start even smaller.

But that would take much more time. More time away from Beacon, her training, and the bigger picture. Having Djarin come would ease the burden since the reason she was free in the first place was because of him. She managed to make progress, but Cinder knew in her heart that more progress would come once Djarin arrived.

Progress such as... facing whatever was in the cave.

Cinder's eyes fell in the direction where the dark cave was. Obi-Wan seemed afraid of the idea of someone going inside, and the child still didn't know why. There was something he was hiding, even though he promised to show her later. Cinder believed that maybe all she could do was wait until the bulk of her training was over.

Or maybe... she could find out now.

Cinder stopped leaning on the windowsill when the idea found its way into her mind. Rather than thinking of a reason why the idea might be a bad one, Cinder thought of what could happen if she completed a huge part of her training. She could advance further in her training, and be ahead of Obi-Wan's schedule. She could refocus on Salem quicker and be back on her way to being the best Maiden Remnant had seen.

Her resolve led Cinder to closing her window and picking up her swords, ready to face whatever it was that scared the Headmaster.

Sneaking out of Haven Academy wasn't completely difficult. Although Djarin's lessons were mainly of strength, defense, and attack, he taught Cinder a thing or two about keeping her presence hidden and being extremely quiet. It was those ideas that led Cinder to exit the academy undetected.

She then made her way to the forest, a small fire in her hand lit the way to where she wanted to go. As she walked, she began to make a plan. First, she would go to the cave, her swords drawn. Then, she would find whatever creature or force Obi-Wan feared. Once she killed it, either by sword or Maiden power, she would go back to Haven victorious. And finally, she would be back at Beacon, where she belonged.

The first part of the plan was easy, as Cinder found the cave in no time at all. Before she entered, Cinder began to feel cold. It wasn't the cool air of the night, but something about the cave made a chill go down her spine. For a brief moment, she considered going back, to return in the morning.

Cinder quickly put her doubts aside. She said she would conqueror the cave, and she wasn't going to back away easily. This is the Way.

So, making her fire grow larger to warm herself, Cinder entered the mouth of the cave. There was nothing in the entrance of the first five feet. Short stalagmites and stalactites seemed to be the only residence of the cave, save for a few bugs.

After walking deeper into the cave for another minute, Cinder's fire flowed on something new; she arrived at the end of the cave. Unable to understand her discovery, Cinder stopped in her tracks. All this time, there was nothing? Just an empty cave?

No.

This couldn't be it.

Cinder looked around the walls of the cave, trying to find some kind of clue. Obi-Wan wouldn't tell her about the cave, but he knew something was in here. There was something he felt the child wasn't ready for.

Cinder suddenly got the idea that maybe there was something alive in here. Maybe it prefers to come out at night, and it slept during the day. And since there was no telling when it would come back, Cinder felt that the night turned out to be a waste of time. So she put her swords on her back and made another fire to light her way out.

She didn't even make it five feet before the chill returned to her spine.

But this time, the cold wasn't internal. Cinder felt something blow onto her back, something from behind. She quickly turned around to face the end of the cave once again. The chill came to her face this time, there was definitely something she wasn't seeing.

That's when she noticed a crack in the natural wall. Not very large, but noticeable. Cinder approached closer and felt the cold grow. But it didn't feel like the wind was blowing through. This cold was different, and not very strong. Cinder found herself determined to find out what exactly was causing this feeling. When she brought her fiery hand closer to the wall, Cinder couldn't see anything. The crack looked like it could be broken, so she took her other hand and touched it.

A white flash blinded Cinder right as she made physical contact with the natural wall. It died down to reveal a completely different environment. Rather than a natural cave, Cinder was back at her old training room, the large corridor beneath Beacon Tower. She didn't know how or why, all Cinder knew was that she was back at Beacon. She was home.

But something was wrong. Just as she remembered, Cinder saw the light green glow mixed with the darkness all around her. But the room was completely covered in a foreign mist. Not thick enough to blind her path, but visible enough to notice. And the room was cold. So cold that Cinder could see her breath in front of her face. Making another fire in her hand to warm herself, Cinder could see the orange light was doing something else; it was shining on a large rock close to the tower's elevator. And just below the rock were two feet.

"No," Cinder whispered. She remembered this day, remembered this very moment. She had just lashed out at Ozpin for not advancing her teaching and accidentally hurt Djarin. But she had no memory of doing it again or any memory of coming back to Beacon. Rather than dwelling on how this was possible, Cinder rushed over to the rock to help her father.

Just as she was about to try moving the rock with her hands, a dark blade found its way to the surface. It came out of the rock dangerously close to Cinder, so she quickly moved away. The Darksaber began to move down the rock, cutting it in half. Once it was split, the rock halves fell to the side and revealed Din Djarin.

"Dad?" Cinder called out.

"..."

Djarin's silence felt unnatural at the moment, and it made Cinder worried. "Dad, are you-?"

The Mandalorian suddenly raised his arm, releasing a wave of fire toward Cinder. Acting quickly, she jumped out of the way and rolled under the jet of fire. Once it died down, Cinder looked up to ask Djarin what he was doing. But she didn't get the chance, as the Mandalorian was in the air and prepared to stab the Darksaber into her chest. Rolling again, Cinder dodged the attack and pulled out her Beskar swords.

"Dad, what are you doing?!" Cinder finally screamed out.

"What I should have done months ago," Djarin coldly replied as he swung the Darksaber again. Cinder blocked it with her swords but wasn't prepared to hear that her father was ready to hurt her. Or worse.

Cinder tried to push the sword away from her, but Djarin's applied force was stronger. He continued to speak as he pushed his sword. "Your fear nearly cost me my life once. I'll be damned before I let that happen again."

"What? No, I didn't mean-"

A kick to her gut caused Cinder to stop talking and roll on the ground. She quickly reoriented herself and blocked another attack. "Dad, please! I didn't mean to hurt you! And I don't want to hurt you now!"

"That remains to be seen!" Djarin yelled as he removed the Darksaber and swung again. Cinder blocked each careful swing as the Mandalorian continued to scream. "Why are you holding back? I thought you wanted to be a Mandalorian!"

Cinder continued to block each strike and tried to block out what Djarin was saying.

"You are just a scared little girl!"

Djarin's words were knives in Cinder's heart. It was a pain she was familiar with, but she never got used to it.

"The only thing worth a damn about you is the power you're too weak to control!"

And once again, the empty holes were filled with nothing but anger. Cinder acted on her impulses and began to fight back. Putting the Mandalorian on the defensive, Cinder used her Maiden powers to keep him on the run. Fire blasted in each place the Mandalorian jumped to, and Cinder swung her swords again. Djarin blocked with the Darksaber, so Cinder changed strategies. Grabbing his hand and using her Semblance, Cinder burned the Mandalorian's hand and made him drop his blade. With a yell, Cinder thrust her sword just below Djarin's armor, stabbing him in the stomach.

Silence followed after that.

The silence gave Cinder time to calm down and realize what she had just done. She looked down at the sword in shock, unable to fathom how she could do such a thing once again. Before she could pull it out, Djarin's hands grabbed the sword and held it steady. "Yes," he coldly said. "My blood will be on your hands. You're a threat. A menace."

"No," Cinder whispered, on the verge of more tears. She tried to pull the sword out again, but the Mandalorian's grip was strong. So she tried to reason with him. "Dad, I didn't mean-"

"You're no daughter of mine."

"..."

Djarin finally let go of Cinder's sword, but grabbed her by the throat and lifted her up. The child seemed to forget that she still had her Maiden powers as the only thing she could think of doing was struggle in the Mandalorian's grasp and desperately try to breathe. And as she looked into the Mandalorian's black visor, which she once looked at with hope and love, Cinder's fear returned stronger than ever.

Djarin let go of the young Maiden and threw her across the room. Cinder crashed into a wall and fell to the floor. However, something was different about the ground. Rather than the carved stone of Beacon Tower's underground room, the floor was made of square tiles. Cinder began to stand up while continuing to look at the ground, but then she noticed something else had changed. She was wearing a white shirt and gray pants, a uniform that was very familiar to her. As horrible as it was, Cinder was starting to have an idea as to where she was now. And when she looked around the room to see shelves of food and dining utensils, cabinets of more supplies, and a chalkboard with a list of chores, Cinder knew her theory was confirmed; she was back at the Glass Unicorn, her own depiction of Hell.

Her first instinct was to run, to get as far away from this place as possible. Although her path was blocked by a Mandalorian, Cinder was more than determined to escape. If even the slightest chance of escape existed, Cinder was prepared to take it in a heartbeat. So she quickly ran towards Djarin once again.

But an intense pain around her neck caused Cinder to yell and fall to the floor, clutching at her neck.

"There you are," a familiar voice said. Cinder's heart rate began to increase as cold sweat ran down her forehead. Turning around, she came face-to-face with the Madame of the Glass Unicorn, who was holding the remote for the shock collar that was around Cinder's neck once again. "I was wondering where you had gone." She looked up at the Mandalorian. "I'll take it from here."

Djarin wordlessly began to walk out the door, and Cinder reached out to him and made one final plea. "Dad... please..."

Djarin stopped in his tracks and looked back at Cinder. "Good riddance," he said as he left the room, leaving a heartbroken and hopeless Cinder. She tried to run away again but fell to the floor again as the familiar jolt of electricity traveled across her neck.

"Yes," said the Madame. "I hope you remember this. I hope you remember your place. Without that 'father' of yours, this is where you belong. And without me... you are nothing!"

"NNNNNNNNNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!"

As the defying and disbelieving scream escaped Cinder's mouth and left her with a sore throat, the room disappeared.

The collar disappeared.

The Madame disappeared.

And instead of the isolated room, Cinder found herself back in the cave. The ground was coarse, the ceiling was nothing but sharp stalactites, and the only sound she could hear was water dripping on the ground. It seemed she never left the cave, she never went back to Beacon or the Glass Unicorn. Rather than wondering what just happened or how her vision was even possible, Cinder's instincts told her to run. She ran out of the cave and into the forest, where darkness continued to envelop everything.

As she ran, the voices of Djarin and the Madame continued to ring through Cinder's ears. They told her she was dangerous, that she was a menace, that she was nothing. She didn't bother trying to fight the voices, the child just continued to run.

And that running led her to colliding into a tree.

The pain traveled across her face as she fell to the ground. Rather than getting back up or using her Aura to heal herself, Cinder laid on her back and started to cry. She didn't want to get up or do anything else, she just laid on the ground and started to cry. Cinder cried because she repeated the same mistake when she promised she wouldn't.

Because she was weak.

Because she was afraid.

But most of all, because she was alone.

"It's very tempting, isn't it?"

Cinder opened her eyes to find a hooded figure looking down on her. The hood was removed to reveal Obi-Wan, who was extending his hand to her. "We should talk," he said.

"He said... He said I wasn't his daughter. That I was back where I belonged."

"And then?"

"He... left me. He left me with her. She... She..."

Cinder couldn't explain her visions anymore, she was unable to hold back her sobs. As she described what happened in the cave, Obi-Wan had a comforting hand on her shoulder as he patiently listened to Cinder. Now, he was doing his best to calm her down by hugging her.

"I'm sorry, Cinder," the Headmaster said. "I'm so sorry you had to go through that alone. What you described... is exactly as I feared."

Cinder removed her hands from her face to look at Obi-Wan, still unable to control her tears. "Why is this happening to me?!" she demanded.

Obi-Wan sighed before he explained the tragic situation. "I tried to tell you earlier, but you didn't understand at the time. I'm afraid your attachment to your father makes you more vulnerable to your fears. To your anger." Before saying anything else, Obi-Wan used the Force to summon a handkerchief to let Cinder dry her eyes. "And there are forces in this world that are capable of exploiting them as the cave did."

Cinder dried her eyes as she listened. And it was hard to disagree with Obi-Wan, she was so angry and afraid in that cave. Something in there turned her emotions into playthings and made Cinder suffer. "This never happened to my father," she said. "Why am I the only one who's afraid?"

"It's not a matter of who it happens to, Cinder. It's a matter of control. That's why you chose to come here. But I need you to make another choice."

"What do you mean?"

Obi-Wan kneeled down to Cinder. "At first, I was unsure of my ability to train you. I didn't believe I could convince you this was necessary."

"So why did you say 'yes?'"

"...I was recently reminded of an old fairy tale. A young girl flees the consequences of a choice... to a magical place. But, never having learned from her initial failure, she only succeeds in spreading it." Obi-Wan placed a hand on Cinder's chin and gently pushed it to move her head to make eye contact. "Cinder, I'm proud you chose to come see me. But I need you to make another choice; you can stay here and let me train you, or you can leave. Your training won't be easy, but it will be necessary."

Cinder took a moment to think about the opportunity presented to her. Making the choice to stay with Obi-Wan or leave would both have consequences. If she stayed, she would spend time training her mind and heart, but leave Salem open to make another attack. But if she left now, nobody could feel safe being in her presence. Cinder knew she would be closer to becoming a Maiden if she chose to leave, but at what cost?

With her mind cleared, Cinder knew she would make the choice to stay at Haven and train with Obi-Wan. But she had some final questions for him. "If I continue my training... I have to do it alone, don't I?"

"I'm afraid so," Obi-Wan confirmed with a heavy heart. "I made the mistake of ignoring one Jedi's attachment to someone he loved dearly, and it cost me everything. But you can return to your father once you're done with your training, I won't keep you away from him. I learned much after my failure, and the knowledge you'll uncover with me will keep your attachment pure and unconquerable."

"This Jedi... was like me, wasn't he?"

"..."

Obi-Wan never thought about it, but he could see some similarities between the Jedi he kept talking about and the young girl before him. Rather than beat around the bush, the Headmaster decided to be honest with the girl. "He was." Just as he said that Obi-Wan sensed some distress from Cinder. "But listen. It doesn't matter how alike you are, what matters is-"

"I'll do it."

Cinder quickly stood up and made close eye contact with Obi-Wan. "Headmaster, I'm ready to listen to you. Teach me whatever you feel I need. I know, I might be like that Jedi, whoever he was. I don't know what it was that he took from you, but now I know what my fear and anger are capable of taking from me." Cinder lowered her head in shame of her past actions. "Please... help me."

Obi-Wan was amazed at the new resolve Cinder had, even though he still sensed the distress from her. But he never turned away anyone who needed his help. And the Headmaster wouldn't start now. "Cinder, of course, I'll help you." He stood up and led her out of the room. "We'll begin tomorrow morning if you like."

"Thank you. I just... need to do one more thing before we start."

Cinder woke up later than usual the next morning. Even though she was still exhausted from last night, Cinder was ready to do what had to be done. After getting dressed and making her bed, she made her way to the Mistral CCT to make a very important phone call. The tower was on Haven's campus, so it wasn't a very far walk. As soon as she stepped inside and got into the elevator, an electronic voice rang out.

"Hello. Welcome to the CCT. How may I help you?"

"...Communications room, please," said Cinder.

"Absolutely. Could you please place your Scroll on the terminal to verify your identity?"

Cinder took out the Scroll Djarin gave her a while ago. After placing it on the terminal, the automated voice called out again. "Perfect. Thank you, Cinder."

"..."

Cinder's elevator ride was as silent as ever. She wasn't going over what she would say to her father, she knew it would be hard enough. But like she realized last night, it was necessary. When the elevator stopped, Cinder walked out to see dozens of people sitting at computers, talking to people on the terminals. She walked up to the front desk where a holographic secretary appeared in the seat.

"Welcome to the Haven Cross Continental Transmit Center," the hologram said. "How may I help you?"

Cinder pulled out the paper Djarin gave her yesterday. "I need to call this number, the owner should be at Beacon."

"Absolutely." The hologram looked at the number and a few soft beeps ran out before it spoke again. "If you head over to Terminal Three, I'll patch you through."

Cinder did as she was told and moved to her assigned computer. Once she sat down, she mentally prepared herself for the conversation that she was about to have. The preparation, however, wasn't very long, as the recipient of the call answered in less than five seconds. Cinder quickly came face to face with her father and felt surprisingly calm seeing him again. So without further delay, she began the conversation. "Hi, Dad."

"...Hi, Cinder," Djarin replied. "I was on my way to see you, are you okay?"

"I'm fine. A little tired, but I'm fine." Cinder suddenly yawned. She was still tired from her ordeal last night but didn't want to go into full detail. "I'm sorry, I just... had a really long night."

"Well, how did it go?" Djarin asked.

"The day was hard, but, I think last night opened my eyes. I'm glad I came here."

"So it worked? Your training's over?"

Cinder stopped smiling. She didn't know how to tell him that she wasn't coming home, and it broke her heart. She did her best to hold back tears as she answered. "I wish it was, Dad. But it's like Ozpin said... it's not that simple. I know what I need to do, just..."

"Just not how to do it."

A tear began to escape Cinder's left eye, but she dried it quickly. Smiling again for Djarin, she gave him an answer. "Eventually, I will. I took the first step, but it's going to be a long walk."

Djarin's next question shook Cinder to her core. "Do you... Do you need me to take it with you?"

Cinder's smile vanished again. She wanted to say "yes," she wanted her father to watch her and help her through the bad days she would experience. But she knew what she wanted couldn't happen right now, and Djarin staying at Beacon was for the best. So she took a deep breath and told the truth. "Dad... this is something I need to do alone. I don't know how long it will take, but I can't come home until this is done. Until I'm ready to be a Maiden. I..." Cinder looked away for a second and took a few more breaths. But tears began to pour down her cheeks as the heartbreak hurt even more. And now there was a chance she hurt her father once again. "I know that's hard to hear, and I don't want you to think I don't need you. I also don't want you to be mad, but I-"

Djarin suddenly took off his helmet before talking again. "Cinder, I'm not mad," he said honestly. "There's never been a time when I was mad at you. If anything... I'm proud you're able to make a choice as hard as this. Believe me, I've had to make hard choices too. And I know it will be a while before we see each other again. So for now, just know that I'm going to wait for you. As long as it takes."

Cinder had no idea how much she needed to hear those words. They may have left her speechless, but they also managed to undo some of the damage her heart had taken.

"Cinder?"

The child's focus was captured by Djarin's voice. "Yes?"

"...You know that I love you, right?"

Cinder's felt a hundred times better than before when she heard that. It was comforting to know that what she saw in the cave was ultimately a lie. So she smiled again as she nodded. She cried again, but these tears were nothing but joy. "I love you too," Cinder reminded the Mandalorian.

"...Goodbye, Cinder."

"Goodbye, Dad."

The call ended.

Cinder was glad the conversation went better than she thought and was proud of herself for being honest. But she was still upset about not being able to see Djarin again for a little while. Even though he said he would wait for her, neither member of the clan of two knew how long the wait would be. But Cinder was determined to follow through with her new training. Not to get it out of the way and see her father again, but to be ready to become a master of herself.

Cinder walked outside the CCT to see Obi-Wan waiting for her. The first things he saw were her wet eyes, but he expected the conversation Cinder had with Djarin to be emotional. "You did well, Cinder," he said with a smile.

"Thank you, Headmaster," Cinder said as she returned a smile. She joined him as they walked back to the academy. They came into a separate room with two cushions across from each other. They each took one and Obi-Wan used the Force to pour a cup of tea for himself and Cinder.

"Before we begin, I'd like to say how proud I am of you," said the Headmaster. "The choices you've made here have been the bravest I've seen a child your age make."

Cinder used her Semblance to warm her tea before saying anything else. "I... really needed to hear that," she said before taking a drink. "I still feel stupid about going to the cave alone."

"Bravery can lead us to foolishness." Obi-Wan smiled. "I've seen that happen one too many times for my liking." He took another drink, but Cinder didn't follow. She had a strange feeling each time the Headmaster talked about his closest friend. And it was telling her his friend was the one Obi-Wan talked about last night, the Jedi who was like her. She knew it might hurt Obi-Wan, but Cinder wanted to take this opportunity to learn from this Jedi's mistakes. If they were really alike, she could see what he did wrong and use it to help herself.

So Cinder decided to be brave once again and make a request. "Headmaster, I think I might know how I should start today's training."

Obi-Wan looked up at her. "You want to hear about him, don't you?"

"..."

Once again, Obi-Wan Kenobi's intuition caught Cinder completely off guard. But that didn't stop her from taking back her request. "If we're really alike, I should know his mistakes, how I can avoid making them."

"An interesting idea. But I should warn you, the story isn't for the faint of heart."

Cinder quickly took out her father's necklace. "Neither is walking the Way of the Mandalore."

Obi-Wan chuckled. "Your father would be proud of you." Finishing off his tea, Obi-Wan cleared his throat. "The Jedi I keep referring to was my best friend. His name... was Anakin Skywalker."

TheCourtofTalons · Sep 7, 2023

Chapter 27: The Eyes

"So the wife says she had the repairmen come to her house. The only payment they would take was either a cake or having sex with them. When the husband asks what kind of cake she made, all she says is, 'What do I look like, the master chef?'"

The table Greef Karga was sitting at erupted in laughter at the joke he just told. The citizens and Mandalorians he was sitting with were enjoying some downtime from work in the city and work abroad. However, Karga's break ended when he recognized a woman that just walked into the bar. "Sorry, my friends," he said as he stood up and showed his Scroll of bounties. "My next hunter's here." He stood up and walked over to the bounty hunter, prepared to make a deal. On his way, he accidentally bumped into another woman. "Oh, excuse me."

"Don't worry about it," a low voice said. Rather than walking to a crowd of people, the woman chose a very isolated spot in the bar and removed a hood. The woman revealed herself as a Faunus with ears and stripes, and very annoyed. She had come back to this town every day and still hadn't found what she was looking for. So she decided to call the operation off when she made a call on her Scroll.

"Report, Aurora," a voice ordered.

"I'm back in Nevarro again," the Faunus replied. "Still no sign of them."

"How can they be gone for this long and not come back from time to time?"

"You got me. And the people don't know where she is, no matter how I push them."

The voice on the other end sighed. "Alright, pack it up. This is a waste of time."

"Oh, I'm done with this hick town. But if you think I'm done with finding the girl, you got another-"

The windows and open door of the bar suddenly let in a large white light, blinding everyone inside. Even Aurora had to cover her eyes when she lowered her Scroll. Once it died down, everyone rushed outside to see what was going on. A large crowd formed in the center of the town, and Aurora pushed her way through to see what was going on. And she was amazed by what she saw.

"Sorry, everyone," a white and orange Mandalorian said as he walked around a stone Beowolf. "This thing found a way inside, had to use my Semblance to stop it."

"Dammit," said Greef, who saw the whole thing. "Can you show me where this thing came from? I'll send some extra security to that spot."

"Right this way." The Mandalorian led the Magistrate of Nevarro to where he saw the Grimm. Everyone began to disperse when they saw everything was under control.

Aurora, however, stood and carefully examined the stone Grimm. Just one look at it told her this was no Semblance. That, and the light that found its way into the bar, told the Faunus that something else was going on.

"Aurora? Aurora, are you there?"

The Faunus put her Scroll pack to her ear. "I think I need to stay a little while longer. And I'm gonna need some backup."

Djarin had just finished another Combat Class with the first year students. Ever since the threats to suspend him stopped, the Mandalorian noticed some improvements with the ones who signed the petition. Corvo Nightshade, the student Cinder fought, was taking the lessons more seriously. He confessed that he started to feel less tired a week into his new training, that he could keep up and stay on his feet despite being hit harder than usual. A few of the students said the same thing, and Djarin was starting to feel proud of himself. Even Glynda was impressed with the progress, so impressed that she let Djarin teach during her scheduled time.

As the Mandalorian made his way to the exit of the room after dismissing the class, a student walked in front of him and blocked his path. "Excuse me, sir?" she asked politely. "I was wondering if I could ask a few questions before we leave, is that alright?"

Djarin recognized the student as Gretchen Rainart, one of the more vocal students in his class of first year students. Whenever Djarin gave a lecture and asked a question, she was always the first one to raise her hand. It was clear she wanted to learn anything and everything she could from Beacon, so Djarin decided to spare a few minutes of his time and hear her out. Stepping back into the room, Djarin let Gretchen speak her mind. "What is it?" he asked.

"Well..." Gretchen began to fix her hair and stand up a little straighter, it was clear she was nervous talking to Djarin. He didn't mind, however. Most students and some of the faculty were still unsure about talking to him. After a couple of seconds, Gretchen began to talk again. "I was just wondering if you could tell me how I've been doing," she politely asked.

"With your combat?" Djarin assumed.

"Yeah. Is there anything I can improve or do better?"

"You seem to be learning at the same pace everyone else is. Build up your stamina and practice more sparring with your team." He began to walk back to the door.

"No, no, wait!" Gretchen yelled as she blocked the Mandalorian's path again. Djarin was caught off guard by this, and had to suppress his instincts to fight whenever someone stood in his way. "I mean, there's more to it than that, isn't there? Like, I have to be doing something wrong, right? Tell me what I'm doing wrong and I'll improve it!"

"Gretchen, I'm not seeing anything wrong. Just build up stamina and keep practicing. It's as simple as that."

"But it can't be! I need to do better, and I-"

"Relax," Djarin ordered. He already made his point and didn't see a need to repeat himself. But seeing Gretchen nervous and a little aggressive made him wonder why she wanted to improve so badly. "You're in the same spot everyone else is. There's nothing new you need to learn here, and I wouldn't say you're failing my class. You don't need to overwork yourself."

"With all due respect, sir, I don't think so." Gretchen pulled out a piece of paper she had in her pocket and handed it to Djarin. He opened it to see that it was a letter addressed to Gretchen. "This came from my brother, Hazel. He's coming to see me, my team, and each of my teachers."

"It sounds like he wants to know how you're doing at Beacon," Djarin said as he read over the letter.

"He does, but it's not a visit. It's almost as if... he's looking for a reason why I shouldn't be at Beacon."

Djarin looked up from the paper. "Why's that?"

"It's not how it sounds, really. Hazel's always looked after me since our parents gave us away. He's been a little overprotective, especially when I enrolled at Beacon. He did everything he could to talk me out of it, to make sure I wouldn't go. But that was the only fight we had that he lost, and I got to come here. But he said he'll be coming to see how I'm doing."

"And you don't want that."

"Not at all. So, I've been talking to each of my teachers, to see if there's anything I can do to... boost my rep, you know?"

Djarin handed Hazel's letter back to Gretchen. "The only advice I can give you is what I already told you. That's the only thing you, and everyone else in this class, can do." He made his way back to the door, leaving Gretchen to think about what her teacher just told her. But just before she joined him, Gretchen had one last idea.

"Can I talk to your daughter?"

Djarin stopped walking and turned around. "What?"

Gretchen walked closer to the Mandalorian, excited at the possibility of learning how to fight better. "She beat a student who was older than her in practically no time at all. And she's been learning way longer than the rest of us. It would just be for a minute, I can-"

"Cinder can't see anyone right now," Djarin said with a sigh. He couldn't explain where she was or what she was doing, so Djarin quickly thought of a lie. "She's... not feeling well."

"Oh. I'm sorry." Djarin didn't say anything else after Gretchen's apology, he just made his way to the door. "I hope she feels-"

Djarin vanished.

As soon as he used his Semblance to return to his room, Djarin did nothing but remove his helmet and sit down to think. He had been in the same routine ever since Cinder said she needed to stay at Haven alone. He was still proud of her for making a very difficult choice, but that didn't help how he was feeling.

It had only been four days since she left, but the truth was evident; Djarin missed Cinder. He missed hearing her voice, seeing her smile, helping her train, and reading to her. He never pictured being without her, even if she left for one day. The Mandalorian wasn't worried she would be in trouble at Haven, she seemed like she wanted to stay and Obi-Wan said he would watch over her. But everywhere he went, there were reminders of her. Beacon Academy, his class, even the room he was sitting in all reminded him of all the time he spent with her.

Of course, Djarin tried to get his mind off how he was feeling. If he wasn't focused on his job at Beacon, he was hunting small bounties in Vale. His goal wasn't to forget about Cinder, but forget about how sad he was. The hunts and work helped, but they always ended the same way: going back to Beacon and being reminded that Cinder wasn't waiting for him.

The only difference today was that Djarin was getting tired of it. He knew he couldn't see Cinder right now, and nothing could change that. All he could do was wait until she was ready to come home. And he wouldn't let his feelings take over anymore, it was time to get back to his old self. And to start, Djarin decided to talk to Ozpin. Perhaps he could do something involving Salem, to lighten the burden Cinder and everyone else was carrying. So Djarin used his Semblance to go straight to Ozpin's office.

*CRASH*

Djarin was welcomed by the sound of glass breaking and two people screaming.

"I told her! I told her it wasn't safe!"

"Qrow, calm yourself!"

Ozpin was sitting down while an angry man was hovering over him, as if he was ready to attack. His right hand was bleeding, it seemed he punched a hole in the window and didn't bother to use his Aura to heal it. He also seemed to throw Ozpin's desk against the wall, since that's where it was at the moment. And he looked like he was about to throw another punch as he moved closer into Ozpin's personal space. "Don't you see it's all gone to shit?!" he yelled. "I had to be there, while you sat on your ass in your big tower!" He then grabbed Ozpin's collar and formed his right hand into another fist.

That was when Djarin used his gauntlet's wire to stop the fist. The man turned to see what was keeping his arm from moving rather than applying force, which caused him to be pulled back and grabbed by his throat. The Mandalorian pushed the assailant into the elevator door as he continually threw his fists at the Beskar.

"Let me go!" he screamed.

Djarin only held his throat tighter and pointed his blaster at the man's head. "Don't move!" he ordered.

"Djarin, stop!"

The Mandalorian turned around to see Ozpin walking towards him. "He's not our enemy," the Headmaster assured him.

"..."

Djarin looked at the broken window and misplaced desk, which made him find Ozpin's claim to be dubious. Ozpin seemed to understand what the Mandalorian was thinking, so he continued his efforts to save the man's life. "Just let him go, I can explain."

Djarin looked back at the man, who seemed to be in a hazy state of mind. His dark red eyes were half open and his head was spinning. It was as if he was in some kind of trance or he was drunk. "Do what... he says," he said, now talking in a slurred speech. "I ain't... gonna hurt you, trash can."

As Djarin let him go, the man reached into his pocket and pulled out a metal flask, which he drank from for five seconds. He then walked to the side of the room, but fell down. Rather than getting up, he drank some more. Djarin turned to Ozpin, who was walking towards the drunk. "Who is this?" he asked. "Why did he attack you?"

"Don't worry," Ozpin said. "He's a friend." He picked up the man by placing his arm over his shoulder. "Could you lend a hand?"

Djarin silently picked up the man's other arm and followed Ozpin's lead, who was walking to the desk's chair. After sitting him down and watching him drink some more, Ozpin explained the situation he found himself in. "This is Qrow Branwen, one of my most trusted allies. Please, don't judge him by his destructive tendencies. He's... mourning." Ozpin walked to the broken window and sighed. "As am I."

"She's not... coming back," Qrow said, taking another drink from his flask.

"Who's 'she?'" Djarin asked the Headmaster.

"One of Beacon's most exceptional graduates. Summer Rose."

"Summer-?" Djarin heard the name before. It was the Huntress he met in Argus, the one he learned had helped the Atlesians destroy the Leviathan. From what he heard when he arrived at the base, she stopped the Grimm just by looking at it. If it wasn't for her, the Leviathan would have killed him and Cinder. The news that she was gone made Djarin look at Qrow in a different way. "I'm sorry for your loss," he said, even though he was doubtful the drunkard could understand him.

"As am I, Qrow," said Ozpin, who also shared Djarin's doubts.

"I met her before. She saved my life."

"That doesn't surprise me. Summer was very special. Not just as a Huntress, but a human being. Her kindness and willpower were unlike anything I had ever seen before. And her efforts against Salem inspired Qrow and I to not give up easily."

"She knew about Salem?"

"Yes. She was, perhaps, one of Salem's most powerful enemies. Her and the rest of her kind."

"Her... kind?"

"Yes." Ozpin turned back to Djarin. "You said you met Summer before. Do you remember anything about her? Anything that stood out?"

Djarin thought back to the day he rescued Cinder, to the moment he met Summer Rose. "Other than the fact she was unarmed, there was nothing special about her," he said. "She was wearing a cloak, had black hair, and..." He began to trail off as he described her. He didn't think about it until now, but staring at her face brought a sense of tranquility and peace. Except... it wasn't her face that had these feelings. "She also had-"

"Silver eyes. A very rare trait."

"So?"

Ozpin couldn't sit down in his chair, so he continued to speak standing up. "I understand Cinder has a love for fairy tales. Remnant is full of legends and stories like the ones she's heard. There's actually one such story I wanted to tell her... before she left."

"..."

Ozpin didn't want to upset the Mandalorian more than he already was, so he continued with the story. "Back before Huntsmen, before Kingdoms, it was said that those born with silver eyes were destined to lead the life of a warrior. You see, the creatures of Grimm, the most fearsome monsters mankind had ever encountered, were afraid of those silver-eyed warriors. It was said that even a single look from one of those warriors would defeat a Grimm where it stood." Ozpin began to smirk. "And from what I recall, you met Summer Rose the same day a Leviathan was turned to stone."

Once upon a time, Djarin would have dismissed the story. There was nothing more fearful to a Grimm, or anyone for that matter, than a Mandalorian. But from what Djarin saw with his own eyes... it seemed hard to disbelieve anything the Headmaster shared with him. "...So she did kill it," Djarin concluded.

"Yes," Ozpin confirmed. "The power she was born with is special, and spread far and wide. It requires no Aura to use, and is capable of defeating any Grimm. And quite capable of being a thorn in Salem's side."

"That's why she's gone."

Ozpin sighed again. "I'm afraid so." He turned back to the window. "It seems her greatest gift turned to be her greatest curse."

"And there are others like her?"

"As I said before, it's a rare trait. But yes, I've met many people who share what Summer had."

"Including her powers?"

Ozpin turned back to Djarin. "Of course."

"I have to go." Djarin immediately made his way to the elevator, having a clear destination in mind.

"Djarin?" Ozpin called out. "Is something wrong?"

The Mandalorian stopped walking and quickly turned around. "You said Summer was killed because of this power. That means Salem is willing to kill anyone who shares it."

"That is one of her goals, yes." Ozpin's eyes widened as he began to put pieces together. "Djarin... do you-?"

"No, Ozpin. I don't have silver eyes." The elevator opened and Djarin stepped inside. "But I think I know someone who does."

Years ago

"Come on, Din! Race you to the clearing!"

"Wait up, Sun!"

Two young children were running through the woods, their destination was a clearing in the middle of the trees. These children were wearing regular clothes for children their age, but their distinct features were two masks on their heads. They were Mandalorian Foundlings, young and in training. Their training had just finished, so they had the rest of the day to themselves. And Sun Jabbid decided to test his improved speed against his best friend, Din Djarin. And with the clearing in sight, Sun knew he won the race.

"Yes!" the young boy yelled as he jumped into the clearing and began to turn around. "Looks like I-!"

Sun was taken off guard when he didn't see his friend behind him. One would think he fell behind, but Sun knew Djarin was a few feet behind him. He should have come into the clearing by now. So Sun stood up to look for Din, in case he got hurt when running.

"I win."

Sun jumped back to see Din Djarin standing right behind him. But that was impossible, he didn't see the other Foundling catch up to him. This caused Sun to wonder how this was possible. "How'd you get here so fast?" he asked out loud. "You were still behind me when we got here. Wow, you must be fast!"

A strange noise echoed through the clearing as Din Djarin disappeared. Sun looked behind him once again to find Din standing behind him. "Not really," he said as he disappeared once again. Sun turned around once again to find his friend right in front of him. "I've been meaning to tell you, I finally unlocked my Semblance."

"You did? When?"

"A few days ago. An older Mandalorian took me hunting one day, but we ran into Grimm. He told me to run back home, so I did. But when I thought of home, I found myself back here rather than a mile away."

"That's incredible." Sun was both impressed and proud of his friend for unlocking his Semblance. Most Foundlings unlock it at their age, given the training they go through, but it was still an admirable trait with the tribe. "How does it work?"

"I thought it could only take me home once I tried it a few more times. But if I have an idea where to go, something I've seen before, I can send myself there."

"Wow." Sun sat down in the clearing so he could learn more. "So if you travel to somewhere in Mistral, you can send yourself back home at any time?"

"Well, I have to be careful were I go. I ran out of Aura one time, and my leg was really stiff. If I run out of Aura, I could hurt myself again."

Sun suddenly realized something else about the news. "So I guess I'm the last one, right?" he wondered.

"For what?" Din asked.

"To find my Semblance. The rest of the Foundlings our age found theirs. Now its my turn."

"That's... That's right. Do you think you're getting close?"

"Maybe. I heard an idea about Semblances once. Some say your personality and character can define your Semblance while some claim that it is the other way around. Do you think your Semblance is something about you?"

Djarin took a minute to think about the idea. "I think it's because I've been travelling a lot," he theorized. "My Founder never got the chance to train me or take me with him across Remnant. Some of the older Mandalorians take turns training me and taking me places. I guess I wanted travelling a lot to be easier."

"That's a good idea. I'll think about it some more."

Din and Sun walked back to the village after talking some more. When they got back, Sun decided to do some more research into unlocking Semblances. But the books he could lay his hands on didn't teach him anything he didn't already know. So he tried a few practices to see what it was about him that stood out. He tried meditating, thinking about all the traits he had, but nothing seemed to work.

One day, when Sun finished his physical training, he decided to try the same things he had done before. During his meditation, however, a new idea came into his mind. The theory of Semblances being connected to personality and character seemed to focus on any trait a person might have. But Sun began to question if there was more to his character than he was now. He thought that maybe if he found a new thing about himself, something he would be good at, maybe his Semblance would be connected to that trait.

So that night, Sun decided to test a quality all Mandalorians valued: bravery. Taking a pistol from the armory, the Foundling went hunting alone. Not for food, but for Grimm. He had heard there were a few Beowolves outside the village that may be part of a pack. So he went in the direction of where they were seen.

Although he killed a couple with his blaster, Sun didn't feel any different. Maybe what he needed was a challenge, to do something brave that no Foundling had done before. And fortunately, he got his chance when a new kind of Grimm approached him. An Alpha Beowolf, taller and covered in more bone-like armor, came in front of the child and lunged.

Sun raised his pistol and fired, but the shot barely missed the Beowolf and it landed on the child. Sun used all of his strength to keep its jaws open and move his pistol closer to its mouth. But Sun lost his grip and the pistol was crushed in the Beowolf's mouth. Without a lot of options, Sun got up and began to run away. Unfortunately, the Grimm was much faster than the child.

Once the Grimm pounced again, Sun ducked and hid in the trees. The Beowolf turned around to see nothing, but its sense of smell didn't fail. The creature knew the Foundling was close, and it was only a matter of time before he was found.

Suddenly, a twig snapped and caused the Beowolf to focus on the noise. It jerked its head to see two more Foundlings with other weapons. They were awoken by the blasts and Grimm howling, which told them danger was close. However, when they went into the woods to find the Grimm themselves, they had no idea just how close the threat actually was.

Sun looked from behind the trees to see the Grimm moving closer to the Foundlings, who he knew as his friends. Once he saw that they were in danger, Sun knew they would be in the same position as he was in. And that it may not have happened if he went hunting for Grimm alone. Armed with a rock and a desire to protect his friends, Sun threw the rock at the Grimm. Once its attention was on him, the Alpha Beowolf ran towards Sun. With a yell and another rock, Sun rushed towards the Grimm.

That was when everything went white and he fell unconscious.

When he woke up the next morning, the Foundlings and older Mandalorians showed Sun what he did; the Beowolf had been turned to stone after being engulfed in a white light. The only explanation anyone could offer was that Sun Jabbid had finally unlocked his Semblance. And with it, the Children of the Watch would no longer have to be worried about the Grimm overtaking their home.

Present

Din Djarin had seen Sun use his "Semblance" multiple times during his time with the Mandalorians. He never imagined it was actually some kind of power that was independent of Aura. In fact, it seemed this could be more powerful and beneficial than any Semblance. People would kill to have a weapon that the Grimm couldn't destroy easily.

Or in Salem's case, she would kill to make sure a weapon like this was wiped off the face of Remnant.

Summer Rose might be gone, but Djarin still had a chance to warn Sun. So with the Razor Crest, Djarin made his way back to Nevarro. There, he would not only be able to warn Sun and the other Mandalorians about the threat of Salem, but also check in with Greef about some bounties. If he had some new ones, then Djarin could go on another hunt.

Once the airship touched down outside Nevarro, Djarin used his Semblance to take him outside the Mandalorian village. Once there, he was greeted by the red and blue guards. "Welcome back, Djarin," said the red Mandalorian. "You were gone for a long time."

"Did you succeed in your quest?" the blue Mandalorian asked.

"Yes," Djarin replied. "The Foundling is safe."

"So you've come back to stay?"

"No. The Foundling is my daughter now. She is in my care."

"This is the Way."

The red Mandalorian and Djarin repeated the phrase, giving Djarin a chance to state his business. "I need to speak with Sun Jabbid. Is he here?"

"No, sorry, "said the blue Mandalorian. "He went on a hunt that Nevarro's Magistrate gave him."

"...How long ago?"

"About an hour."

"Thank you." Djarin immediately used his Semblance to take him to Nevarro, specifically the bar where Karga spent his time. And sure enough, he was handing out bounties like they were candy. But he stopped once he saw a familiar man walking towards him.

"Welcome back, my friend," Karga said with an extended hand. Once Djarin shook it, Karga offered his friend a seat. "Back for more work?"

"Not exactly," Djarin replied. "I heard you gave a bounty to a friend of mine, Sun Jabbid."

"Mando, I've been giving bounties all day. I know, I got other things to do since I'm in charge here. But why quit something you're good at?"

"Do you remember what you gave him?"

"I do, but I can't tell you. It's not the Guild Code. And I'm sure you remember what happened last time you broke it."

"..."

"Hey, now. I ain't gonna do anything again. I'm just trying to warn you about what could happen if I were somebody else."

"Right. Listen, I'm not looking to steal his bounty. I think he's in danger."

"In danger? Well, I'm sure it's nothing a Mandalorian can't handle."

"Don't be so sure."

Karga leaned a little closer, observing his friend's behavior. "Mando, there have been times where you made me happy, angry, even excited. But now... I think today might be the first day you're actually scaring me. What's got you upset?"

"Do you remember the story the Armorer told before Cinder and I left Nevarro for the first time?"

"Yeah, about the wizard and witch. Ozma and... Salami... or something like that."

"Salem. And she's not just after Cinder anymore. I think she wants to kill Sun."

"Wait, what? Why?"

It's... a long story. But I need to find him."

"Now?"

"Now."

"Sun's the white and orange guy, right?"

"Yes."

"...Alright, tell you what. I can tell you where he went, but I'll have to come with you. That's the only way I can keep my position in the Guild."

"...We'll take my ship." Djarin stood up and made his way back to the Razor Crest with Karga. Once they took to the air, Karga told him they needed to go to a small village on the southern coast of Anima. With the new airship, the trip would take half the normal amount of time.

Djarin just prayed nobody got there first.

Aurora was looking down from a cliff to see a small village. It didn't take long to track the Mandalorian she was looking for, and the trail she was following was far from gone. But now, Aurora decided that she was going to ask around until she found him. As she walked down the cliff, the Faunus was reciting what she was going to demand while she was sharpening one of her knives. She was confident in her ability to pry information from the grasps of most people, including Salem's enemies. However, there was something about the village that was interfering with her job.

There was a crowd of people in the town square, partially surrounding three men with various weapons standing over an old man in a red robe. He was bleeding while being beaten. "Please... no more," the man begged in vain.

"Where is he?!" a man in a hoodie with a broadsword asked. "We know you're the people who hired him!"

"Tell us and this can all be over!" the second man, who was holding a large axe and wearing a denim shirt, yelled.

"I... don't know," the old man said.

"Guys, hold up!" the third man said as he backed away. "I think we're asking the wrong guy." Taking a whip off his belt, the man cracked it at a child, who fell on the ground. "Any of y'all know where that Mando is now?!"

Aurora, who was walking closer to the brutality, stopped in her tracks. It seemed these people, whoever they were, had their eyes on the same Mandalorian she had been tracking. Rather than trying to claim his life as her prize and hers alone, Aurora began to think how these three could be useful. She was sure that all they wanted was that Beskar suit, but she only wanted him dead. A little extra help and a fair deal wouldn't hurt anyone's chances.

But before she attempted to make a deal, Aurora though it would be smart to let her new ally know what was going to happen. So she took out her Scroll and put it to her ear after making a call. "Saxon here," a voice said on the other end.

"It's me," said Aurora. "Listen, maybe you should stay put for today. I found these guys who can help kill that Mando, but they want his Beskar."

"Thanks for the warning, but I'm actually not coming. When I told Salem what you saw, she said she was going to send someone else."

"Someone else?" Aurora didn't know a whole lot about Salem's other servants, just that they existed. "Who?"

"Didn't ask. But according to his latest report, he's with you now. Can you see him?"

Aurora looked around her immediate surroundings, but didn't see anyone that looked like another servant of the Grimm Queen. "No, but I think you're right," she eventually said. "He's probably hiding. Tell him not to do anything until I give the signal. He'll know what it is."

"Done. Proceed."

Aurora hung up and walked towards the mass of people, who still didn't notice her. Only when she moved past the crowd and spoke did she finally get some attention. "Howdy, boys."

All three men looked away from the crowd to see Aurora walking up to them. They saw she was armed, so the men with the broadsword and axe stood in front of her while the man with the whip grabbed the old man off the ground and used him as a shield. "Stay back, little lady," he ordered. "Or I'll-"

Aurora threw the knife she was holding, which landed right in the old man's skull. The men turned back at the old man and watched him limply fall to the ground. The crowd gasped at the murder and were about to run away. "If you wanna live, I'd strongly suggest you don't move an inch," said Aurora, who casually walked over to the dead man and took her knife back.

"So... you don't live here, do you?" asked the man with the whip.

"Nope." Aurora began to polish the blade. "I've been tracking the same guy you're looking for. A Mando with orange and white armor."

"Hey, now. That armor's ours," said the man with the sword, whose shock finally died down.

Aurora turned around. "Oh, you can keep the armor once we catch him. All I want is his life."

The man with the axe noticed how the Faunus said "we" instead of "I," which made him curious. "So you wanna come with us," he said. "What makes you think you can help?"

"Well, for one thing, I can tell you where he went." Aurora walked over to the crowd, but stopped in front of a piece of the dirt that was scorched black. "Judging from the ash, I'd say he flew the first chance he got. As for which way he went, it looks like he flew..." She moved closer to the people and pushed them aside. Looking at the nearby small houses, she saw that a tree in front of one house had a few leaves that were burnt. "That way." Aurora pointed outside the town.

"Hmph, not bad," said the man with the whip. "So you can lead us to him. What's the catch?"

"No catch. The opposite, actually." Aurora turned around. "You really didn't think this through, did you? I'm guessing you saw the Mandalorian a few minutes ago and did this whole spur of the moment thing."

Aurora's observations and intuition only succeeded in making the men angry. "Hey! You don't a know a thing about-!"

"A sword and an axe." Aurora pointed at the two men holding those weapons. "I can buy those at that vendor over there." She moved her head to an empty blacksmith shop. "And a whip? Come on, you think you can trap or hit someone with Beskar and more weapons than you can imagine." She moved closer to the men, who silently stared at their weapons. "Now, I'm not saying they won't work. I'm just saying you need to be pushed in the right direction for fighting Mandos."

"So you've fought them before," the man with the whip said.

"Once or twice. But I can definitely provide a little guidance. And some muscle."

"Well, a little guidance wouldn't hurt. But you don't look very muscular, no offense."

"Oh, none taken. I was referring to my friend." Deciding that now was a good time to see what kind of help her Queen sent her, Aurora raised her fingers and snapped them.

Silence followed for a few moments. However, the silence disappeared and was immediately replaced by coughing. Aurora looked to her left to see two of the hunters grabbing their collars. They seemed to be pulling on them, as if they were too tight. However, one fell to the ground and grabbed his entire throat, desperately trying to draw breath. The other attacker did the same motion, except he was lifted in the air.

Aurora and the villagers looked around for a source of the power being demonstrated. But there was nothing to be found, and they were too late to stop the sound of their necks snapping and their bodies falling to the ground.

The leader of the group looked back to Aurora. "Wha... What the hell did you do?!" he screamed as he grabbed his whip.

"Wha... I didn't do it!" Aurora tried to defend herself, unable to explain what just happened. But her efforts were in vain, as the man unraveled his whip and sent it in Aurora's direction.

Only for it to freeze in place, just inches from Aurora's face.

The human felt the same feeling as his friends and was lifted in the air. Instead of his neck snapping, the man was thrown towards a house. The front door smashed as he crashed into it. Just then, a red light flashed through the windows and broken doorframe. The man screamed as the light moved quickly, and silence followed after that.

Aurora was so surprised by the terror she seemingly unleashed onto the small town that she didn't notice one of the townsfolk whisper to her friend. "Can we run now?" she asked, afraid of what else the unknown force would do. Some of the people seemed to share her sentiments as they began to run in various directions. But the red light returned and flew out of the house. It seemed to be spinning as it barely missed Aurora and struck some of the townspeople. Once the light fell to the ground and disappeared, leaving a strange metallic object in its place, a black shape flew out of the house and stopped close to the mass of people.

Aurora was able to get a good look at the shape, and saw that it was... human. It was a figure wrapped in black, starting from their small hood and ending to their feet. The only thing that wasn't black, the one feature that stood out, was a mask. The facemask was a white one with red paint at the top of the eyeholes. A metal ornament divided the mask, where another slit left room for the wearer's nose. All facial features of the figure were hidden under the mask, leaving a barely visible nose and two hidden eyes.

Aurora was in too much shock to do anything else but watch as the figure continued the brutal massacre. She saw the red blade cut more people down, severing body limbs and cutting people in half. And to deal with the ones who were further away, the figure raised his hand. But rather than lifting them in the air, blue lightning flew out of the hand and traveled across the square and collided into the civilians. The intense pain left them helpless to do anything else other than scream as the electricity burned their skin. And for the ones who were even farther, houses began to rise and crush them all.

Once the screams died down, Aurora felt her shock disappear. Never, in all her life, did she ever witness such destruction, such brutality. Aurora thought she could one day be capable of performing such feats when she joined Salem. This power might even rival the power of the Maidens, and the thought made Aurora do nothing but... laugh.

Before meeting Salem, Aurora was a capable hunter and killer. Watching this mysterious figure carry out their work brought back memories and ambitions for the Faunus. The fear, the destruction, and the agony were everything that these pathetic people deserved. And now, after watching them get their just deserts, Aurora felt truly inspired. So inspired that she was ready to kill the sole survivor, another old man.

But the figure beat her to her prey, as they moved closer without their blade.

"You... You will not have me!" the old man said as he grabbed the broadsword off the ground. The blade was out of the masked figure's reach, but he continued to swing. "You... behemoth! Barbarian! Monstrosity!"

The figure lifted its right hand at the old man, who activated his Aura for the first time in years. He was a retired Huntsman, but he was having a bad feeling that his skills left him a long time ago. And the masked figure didn't need to worry about that, as another electric jolt escaped his hand. However, this lightning wasn't blue, but orange instead. Once it touched the old man's Aura, the light began to quickly flicker. The flickering spread across his body, and then the Aura began to... move. It was moving towards the masked figure, separating itself from the old man. The retired Huntsman screamed out in pain, and it only got worse when his Aura left him. The old man had received such a trauma on his body that his heart began to hurt. Grabbing it, the old man felt the pain grow worse as he fell to the ground. Weak breaths escaped his throat before his body stopped moving. He was dead.

The figure, satisfied with its work, turned back to Aurora. Her sadistic glee at the destruction turned to fear as she wondered what it would do next. Once it stopped walking until it was in front of her, she got her answer when a male voice rang through her ears. "Tu aras Aurora," it said. (You are Aurora.)

"..."

The Faunus had absolutely no idea what the deep, distorted voice had just said, but nodded when she heard the sound of her name.

"Tikurzi kash tave wo mes lezkon?" (Where is the one we seek?)

Once again, Aurora was lost in translation. "Wh... What?"

The man lifted its weapon again and activated it. Aurora grabbed the handle of one of her knives, prepared to defend herself. But rather than attacking, the man plunged the red blade into the ground. Moving it with his hand, the figure drew a large "T" in the ground, along with two curves underneath it. Aurora's confusion was lifted when she realized the picture was reminiscent of a Mandalorian helmet. Between the man knowing her name and that they were after the same man, Aurora pointed in the direction she tracked earlier. "He's this way," she said. "Let's go."

The man immediately took the lead. Aurora was annoyed when he pushed her out of the way, but kept her mouth shut so not to upset him. And she was more than pleased to see that she had made a powerful ally, more competent than the three idiots who just wanted Beskar. The hunt would be much easier now, but she would make sure to have some fun before this man moved in for the kill. Although she couldn't understand what he was saying, Aurora could still tell him the plan she had in mind. "I have a plan on how to do this," she said. "But first, you should tell me your name."

The figure stopped walking and turned back to Aurora. She sensed that he didn't see the point in telling her his name, so she explained herself. "I'll need it when I call out to you, when we're fighting that Mando. Trust me, they don't go down easily."

The figure stared at Aurora for a few moments. She was about to give up on finding out the man's name and go with the flow, but he nodded before she could walk away. With that, the man said what the Faunus believed to be his name.

"Nihilus."

Greef Karga walked over to the cockpit's main seat. "This is the place," he said to the Mandalorian flying the airship. Djarin used this confirmation to land the Razor Crest in a clearing in the woods. Once the ship touched the ground, Djarin got off his seat and prepared to leave the ship.

"So what's the target Sun's looking for?" Djarin asked as he moved down the ladder.

"A murderer who's been moving around Anima," Karga answered as he followed Djarin. "You know, I think you almost took that job before-"

"Quiet."

Karga stopped moving and looked down to Djarin, who had a finger up to the lower part of his visor. He pointed to the other end of the ship, where Karga could see what looked like a pair of legs sticking out from behind a box. Djarin took out his pistol and moved slowly towards the apparent intruder. Karga stepped off the ladder and put a hand on his holster. When Djarin quickly moved to the other side to get a good look, he quickly lowered his pistol and sighed. "Unbelievable," he said.

"What is it?" Karga asked, not taking his hand off his pistol.

Djarin leaned down and picked up a person who looked like he was asleep. Karga seemed to think he looked familiar, but Djarin knew this intruder; it was Qrow Branwen, the drunk Huntsman who worked for Ozpin.

"Uh... What am I doing here?" the man groggily asked as Djarin kept a grip on his collar.

"Was he sleeping here?" Karga assumed, confused about what made someone decide to stow himself away on Djarin's ship.

"No," Djarin said with another sigh. "He's drunk." He then threw Qrow into the corner of the hull, his head colliding into the wall. The Mandalorian assumed the drunkard wandered into the Razor Crest before he left Vale, but he couldn't understand how he could travel so fast out of Ozpin's office. Djarin's best guess was that Qrow had a Semblance that was like his, that could move quickly, and that's how he found the ship before it took off.

"I guess I shouldn't be surprised," said Karga, who walked over to the Huntsman. "Should I, Qrow?"

"You know him?"

"He comes by Nevarro sometimes, always going straight to the bar." Karga opened the ship's door and began to walk outside. "Don't worry, he's not going anywhere in that state."

Djarin took one last look at Qrow, who continued to try and reorient himself. Deciding that Karga was right, he followed the Magistrate out of the ship and walked towards the town that Sun was supposed to be at. As they walked, Karga passed the time as he always did; by talking.

"Yeah, I guess I've always felt bad for that guy," he said, referring to Qrow. "Always trying to drink away whatever's bothering him."

"He recently lost a friend," said Djarin, thinking back on Summer Rose. "But you've seen him before?"

"He usually rambles on about his sister or his Semblance. I could never make heads-or-tails of it before, but I guess his life's never been easy."

"Is anyone's life supposed to be easy?"

"I guess not. Remind me to get some water and a rag when we get into town. Having a cold rag and something else to drink helped me when I was in a... similar spot in my life."

"You went through something like him?"

"More or less. Kinda got me thrown out of my first job."

"And you still drink now?"

"Hey now, I'm a responsible drinker. And you're one to talk, I never see you get anything at the bar."

"I don't drink. I can't risk it affecting my skills."

"Well, I can't argue against that. Still, you shouldn't take everything in life so seriously."

"That's... something Cinder's been teaching me. One way or another."

Karga smiled at Djarin. "Good to know she's taking care of you. And I'm sure you're taking-"

Djarin suddenly stopped moving and put an arm in front of Karga's way. He stopped walking and got the same feeling as before, that something was wrong. And when he turned to see what his friend was looking at, Karga knew the feeling was right.

The two were standing outside the small village Sun was supposed to be at. But now, all they could see was smoke in the air, houses destroyed beyond repair, and nothing but dead bodies littering the streets. Once they glanced at each other, sharing the exact same thoughts, Djarin and Karga ran towards the village and looked for any signs of Sun and other survivors.

"No good," said Karga, who was looking at the pile of bodies in front of him. "They're all dead."

"Over here!" Djarin called out as he signaled for Karga to join him. The Mandalorian's thermal vision in his helmet showed a faint source of heat that took to the sky, indicating that someone or something flew into the air. And close to that trail were two sets of recent footprints. Someone was following Sun, and the trail was leading towards a vast forest.

"What is it? Did someone survive?"

"I don't know. But Sun was here. And he's in trouble."

Sun Jabbid had just touched down on the soil, close to a set of broken twigs. Kneeling down, he could see that the sticks had fallen off a tall tree. Given that there were more sticks like the ones in front of the Mandalorian, he could see this wasn't accidental, though. Someone was leaving an obvious trail for the hunter, and they could jump out at any given moment.

Rather than that, the trail ended in a small clearing, where a rock formation formed a natural cave. Sun slowly moved towards the cave, keeping his hand on his blaster. Suddenly, a low grumble from the cave made the Mandalorian stop dead in his tracks. A faint glow in the cave began to appear. Two more followed suit, and Sun realized they were the eyes of Grimm. And they suddenly leapt out of the cave to claim their new meal.

But Sun had other plans.

Instead of wasting any ammunition, Sun closed his eyes and concentrated. Once again, the power within him began to shine. And as he opened his eyes, the Mandalorian felt the light inside him begin to shine all across the surrounding land. "Here comes the Sun," he jokingly thought to himself as the light expanded across his immediate surroundings. Once it died down, the light left nothing behind except three stone Beowolves that landed on the ground, crumbling to rock. With the Grimm out of the way, Sun proceeded with his hunt.

His attention was suddenly taken by the sound of something fast moving in the air. Moving to the left and extending his hand, Sun caught a throwing knife.

"Nice trick."

Moving his eyes away from the knife, Sun Jabbid saw a Faunus woman with tiger ears twirling another knife in her hand. She was casually walking in a semicircle in front of the Mandalorian while wearing a confident smile. "Though I'm afraid it comes with a price," she said.

Sun twirled the knife in his hand to hold it in a stabbing position. "I don't think you know who I am," he said. "Or what I am."

"Really?" The woman began to laugh. "Because that armor says it all."

"If you want my armor, you'll have to peel it off my dead body."

"Well, then..." The Faunus pulled out another knife from a sheath on her leg. "I'm ready when you are."

Sun pulled out his hunting knife and held it in his other hand. Using his jetpack, he flew over to the woman and slashed both knives towards the woman's head. They only made contact with the air, as Aurora ducked down and slashed her knives at the Mandalorian's chest. The Beskar protected him well, forcing Aurora to focus her attacks on the exposed parts of his body. But she didn't get the chance as her opponent kneed her in the face.

Aurora recovered quickly and was about to throw another knife towards the Mandalorian's throat, but a razor wire around her legs caused her to fall when Sun pulled on it. Quickly cutting the wire with her knives, Aurora put her arms up to avoid the Mandalorian from plunging his knife into her chest. When he was about to send the second knife down, Aurora used her left arm to grab it. But she instead felt the force counteract her strength as the knife came closer to her neck. Without many options, Aurora bit into the exposed wrist, causing Sun to drop the knife and back away.

Sun quickly activated his Aura to prevent any more bleeding and pulled out his blaster. He fired two shots at the Faunus, but she was able to evade them by doing multiple somersaults in the air. On her final somersault, Aurora threw another knife that scratched the Mandalorian's visor. Thinking quickly, the Mandalorian took to the air and fired more shots towards his opponent. The Faunus was able to avoid each shot, so Sun predicted her next landing point and fired there. Once Aurora landed on the ground after jumping in the air, she felt a blaster bolt hit her leg and another hit her head. Her Aura protected her as she fell, so she quickly rolled away as Sun stayed in the air.

As she stood up, Aurora began to laugh off what just happened. "Okay, this has been fun and all," she confessed as she pointed to the Mandalorian. "But something tells me you're not gonna come down for a little while. And I don't think my knives are gonna do much to hurt you."

"Are you saying you want to surrender?" Sun asked.

"No, I'm saying I wanna rest." Aurora leaned up on a tree as she continued to point at Sun. "And I'm also saying that you're going to... sleep."

Sun's armor felt incredibly heavy all of a sudden. He felt the uncontrollable urge to close his eyes, so he did. His entire body went limp and his jetpack stopped working. Fast asleep, Sun could do nothing as he fell to the ground. The Faunus smiled as she continued to point at the Mandalorian and pick up one of her knives. Kicking him on his side and kneeling close to him, Aurora felt a sense of pride at her soon-to-be victory. Salem would be most pleased that her servant killed a Silver-Eyed Warrior, and that she did it without the help of that freak in the mask. Her pleasure continued to grow as she lifted the knife in the air and prepared to plunge.

A scream filled the forest and Aurora felt herself slide away from the Mandalorian. Once her back and head collided into a tree, Aurora was knocked unconscious. In doing so, the Mandalorian had awoken from his forced slumber. "Huh? What happened?" he asked as he looked around. Seeing his enemy defenseless in front of him gave Sun the idea to grab his blaster and aim at the Faunus.

But as he grabbed the weapon, a pressure built up around Sun's throat and lifted him in the air. Looking directly in front of him, the Mandalorian saw a robed man in a mask walk out of the woods with an extended hand. The man walked closer to Sun as he flew closer to the extended hand. Once they were arm's length from each other, an orange jolt of electricity struck Sun's chest. His Beskar did nothing to protect him from the pain, so Sun tried to use his Aura instead. However, his Aura began to fade away and seemed to be leaving his body, leaving the Mandalorian vulnerable to all kinds of pain.

As the light reached his hand, Nihilus began to feel strong. The power the Aura gave him satisfied a need for power and energy, and it only got better when Nihilus sensed a new kind of energy. This power wasn't Aura, but something the young man had carried within him since he was born. This power had only grown stronger throughout the years and was more pure than Aura itself. This realization made Nihilus crave the energy. Once he began to taste it, Nihilus knew he was going to savor every last bit.

Suddenly, a disturbance caught the man's attention. Something was coming towards him, and it was coming fast. So the fearless thief raised his hand and stopped a small projectile from reaching him. The projectile seemed to be Dust-based, but it wasn't a normal bullet or blast. From what he sensed, Nihilus seemed to believe that anything this small piece of energy touched would be turned to dust. Just then, three Dust rounds flew out of the trees and also stopped in the air.

"We're not doing any good here!" a voice from the trees called out.

"Hold on!" another voice ordered.

Just then, Nihilus sensed a new presence in his immediate surroundings. Turning back to his prey, he saw another Mandalorian holding onto the one floating in the air. Before Nihilus could do anything to his new foe, the Mandalorians vanished.

After Djarin used his Semblance to rejoin Karga, who was hiding in a ditch close to the clearing, he laid Sun up on a tree in order let him rest. "Sun?" Djarin whispered to his friend. "Sun, are you alright?"

"D... Din?" Sun weakly asked. He felt incredibly weak from the trauma he just endured, it was almost as if the figure was tearing into his heart and soul. But he had managed to catch enough breath to form complete sentences. "What are you doing here?"

"I'm getting you out of here." Djarin grabbed Sun once again and turned to Karga. "Greef, do you remember how we got away from Gideon in Nevarro?"

"Yeah," the Magistrate replied as he pointed his pistol towards the clearing. "But you better make it-"

An invisible force pushed all three fighters deeper into the woods, knocking them into trees. A loud scream and something falling to the ground caught their attention and caused them to look up. All they could see and hear was a red flash of light and trees falling to the ground. Nihilus appeared in the empty spaces with a red blade in his hand, looking across the vast array of trees. Karga, without thinking, got off the ground and ran towards Djarin. Nihilus rushed forward with his sword and prepared to strike Karga.

But the red blade collided into a black one, keeping Nihilus at bay. Djarin turned back to Karga. "Get Sun and run!" he yelled. Karga did as he was told while Djarin continued to push with the Darksaber.

As the blades were locked, Djarin couldn't help but see the similarities between this assassin and Obi-Wan. He seemed to use the Force against Sun and his blade, save for the color, acted just like the Headmaster's lightsaber. Fortunately, it was this comparison that gave Djarin the idea to take his own knife out of its sheath and stab it into the masked man's side.

Nihilus screamed in pain as he was defenseless against the attack. With his Aura locked in the blade and the Darksaber's energy distracting him, Nihilus left himself vulnerable. But he was ready to fix his mistake when he sent more orange lightning to Djarin. Once it made contact, Nihilus felt life return to him.

But Sun could see what was happening and fired a blast towards Nihilus. He let go of Djarin and turned back to Sun. "Din, get away from him!" Sun yelled as he fired more blasts. "Whatever this thing is, it can feed on Aura! Don't let him-!"

"Get back!" Karga yelled as he pulled Sun out of the lightsaber's reach. Nihilus pushed Karga once again and plunged his lightsaber down when the Magistrate hit the ground.

But Djarin quickly teleported himself to Karga and then teleported again. Nihilus quickly pulled his blade out and swung at Sun, who used his gauntlets to block each strike. Just as he was about to swing his blade again, a blast hit his back. As the assassin fell to the ground, Sun could see Djarin limp towards him. "I don't have... much Aura left," he said. "We need to go. Now."

Just as Sun was about to reach out to Djairn's hand, blue lightning travelled across the ground and engulfed the Mandalorians. They felt the electricity travel up and down their bodies, weakening them to the point of their Auras breaking. Sun fell to the ground, but Djarin fell to his knees. He activated the Darksaber once more, just as Nihilus struck at him.

When Djarin used all his strength to push the assassin away, he noticed something. Nihilus fell to his knees as well, as if he was feeling tired. But this was impossible, as the man was winning the fight so far. And yet, he was on his knees and breathing heavily. Djarin took this opportunity to stand on his feet and ask himself a question. "What... the hell... are you?"

The masked menace seemed to hear the question, as he offered a response that Djarin couldn't understand. "Nu sua... tave jena'tes... tkurzi tave irus'... mrias!" (I am the darkness where the light dies!)

The response seemed to give the man new life, as he leapt towards Djarin again. Once their blades touched, Nihilus was able to knock Djarin backwards. Nihilus prepared himself to end the fight while Djarin prepared to defend himself one more time.

A new sound filled the air, one much closer and one that rang through the ears of both combatants. They both turned to the source of the sound: a crow flying in two arcs above them while staying in the trees. The crow flew closer to the duo and disappeared into a bush. However, what came out wasn't a crow, but a man with an oversized sword that struck Nihilus where he stood. Djarin watched the masked man fly backwards and then turned to his savior, who appeared to be a sober Qrow Branwen.

"You don't look so hot," said Qrow. "Get out of here, don't look back!" Qrow lunged himself towards Nihilus and swung his sword, which Nihilus blocked. Before Qrow could strike again, Nihilus sent another orange bolt into his chest, leaving Qrow to scream in agony.

However, Djarin made the Huntsman's pain temporary as he launched his wire and pulled Qrow away from the assassin. Once his apparent ally stood up, Djarin explained the situation. "He can steal Aura, it's almost as if he's... feeding on it."

Qrow suddenly leapt to a nearby tree and pointed his sword at Nihilus. The blade suddenly dropped down and revealed a small barrel, where Dust rounds were sent towards its target. "In that case, I say we let him starve!" Qrow yelled as he kept firing at Nihilus. Djarin saw his enemy block each strike, but his reaction time was much slower than before. Without any source of Aura, Nihilus was weak. So Djarin followed Qrow's lead and fired more shots with his blaster.

As Nihilus grew exhausted, he realized that each attempt to gain power gave his enemies a clue on how to beat him. It was also clear that this battle was lost, his hunger was too powerful to ignore. And if he couldn't have the Huntsman or Mandalorians, then he would have to find another source of replenishment. So with one more invisible push, Nihilus leapt back to the clearing and then on top of the cave, giving him a chance to run away.

Qrow lowered his weapon and jumped off the tree, prepared to give chase. "Let him go," said Djarin, who was trying to pick up Sun. "I need your help."

Qrow rushed over to Sun, who whispered something to Djarin. "Did we... get him?" he asked.

"No," Djarin replied. "He's gone." Rather than discuss their enemy, Djarin got right to the point he wanted to make earlier. "Sun, I need to ask you a few things. Have you ever removed your helmet?"

"...No."

"Has it ever been removed by others."

"Never."

Djarin took a deep breath before asking his next question. "Sun, I need you to tell me the truth."

"I am telling-"

"Not about that." Djarin stopped walking. "Sun... what color are your eyes?"

"They're... silver."

Qrow and Djarin carried an exhausted Sun back to the Razor Crest, where Karga was waiting for them. Seeing the state they were all in, Karga volunteered to fly the airship back to Nevarro and let his saviors rest. This gave Qrow the chance to let the Mandalorians know that the Faunus who attacked Sun seemed to have escaped in the chaos, and for Djarin to explain who Aurora was and why she attacked Sun.

"You mean my Semblance isn't really a Semblance?" Sun asked. "That I possess some... power against the Grimm?" Sun looked back at Djarin. "But that's... completely impossible!"

"Let me show you." Djarin turned on his gauntlet's screen to show an image of a Leviathan. "This was the day I saved Cinder from Gideon. He was hoping to use the Leviathan to kill us all." Djarin pressed another button to make a video play. The video Djarin's helmet recorded showed a blast of white light come and disappear, leaving a stone Leviathan in its place. Djarin let the rest of the video play to show Summer Rose and her big silver eyes. Once he stopped there, Djarin looked back to Sun. "She was the one who stopped that Leviathan," he explained. "She did the same thing you did to that Alpha Beowolf."

"And I've seen her use it before," Qrow included. "It's the real deal."

"So it's true," Sun said as he looked down. "By the Gods..."

"Yes. That's why I came back to find you. I learned that the one who tried to take Cinder, Salem, also wants to kill everyone who has silver eyes. Their power is capable of stopping whatever Grimm she controls."

Sun looked up. "What must I do?"

"Come with me," Djarin said as he slowly stood up. "Let Ozpin explain the rest, and the people who share your gift."

Sun took a moment to consider the offer. Since it was possible that Salem might try something again, maybe even closer to Nevarro, Sun agreed to meet Ozpin. So once Karga landed in Nevarro and went back to his duties, Djarin flew the Razor Crest back to Beacon Academy. Ozpin was waiting for them, and decided to talk with Sun privately.

Which left Qrow Branwen with Din Djarin.

"So, uh, how ya holding up?" the Huntsman asked, referring to the attack they all suffered earlier.

"I'll live," Djarin said. "Yourself?"

"Eh, I guess I'm gonna live too." Djarin walked past the Huntsman, but turned around when Qrow continued to talk. "Listen, I just wanted to say sorry about earlier."

"About attacking me? Or by stowing away on my ship?"

"Both. And thanks for saving my life." Qrow stuck out a hand, hoping it would ease the tension between him and the Mandalorian. Fortunately, Djarin didn't see a reason not to shake hands.

"You're welcome," the Mandalorian said as he shook Qrow's hand. "And thank you for saving mine."

"It's part of my job. I'm sure I introduced myself already, but name's Qrow. Qrow Branwen."

"Din Djarin."

"Right, Oz told me about you. That you're the Maiden's dad."

"That's right."

"I was hoping on meeting her, telling her that you guys do a hell of a job hiding. But Oz told me she was off somewhere else."

"Haven. She needs..." Djarin suddenly recoiled. "What do you mean by that? Have you been looking for us too?"

"Well, that's another part of my job." Qrow sat down on an empty chair. "If I'm not gathering intel about Salem, I'm keeping an eye on the Maidens. After Lila died, nobody knew who the next Fall Maiden was. I looked for weeks, flying across each Kingdom to see what I could find. When Oz told me you've been keeping her safe and hidden, I had no idea you guys could hide yourselves so good."

"It's what my people do now. When we're not fighting Grimm or a Kingdom's authorities."

"Yeah, I know some things about Mandos. So, where'd you say the kid was?"

"Haven. She needs a new kind of training. And I... can't see her right now."

Qrow felt a sense of sympathy for the Mandalorian. He knew how sad a family being split apart was. But suddenly, he had an idea. "Maybe... you actually can."

Author's notes: hey, everyone. Sorry this chapter came a couple of days late, I got a little sidetracked. Hope you enjoyed it, let me know what you think. Thanks!

TheCourtofTalons · Sep 12, 2023

Chapter 28: The Leader

Cinder opened her eyes to see Obi-Wan's meditation room once again. The majority of her training was meditating in the room alone, to release herself of her emotions. When she wasn't meditating, the child practiced with her swords and bow. She decided to hold off on using the powers of the Fall Maiden for now, in order to keep them a secret and not lose control of herself. However, her control was starting to come back, as she declared her last three meditation sessions successful. Focusing on her time at the Glass Unicorn helped Cinder learn to let go of the hate for both her chores and the people who constantly watched her and ignored her. She forgave them all.

All of them... except the Madame and her daughters.

But that would come another day, as Obi-Wan was taking things nice and slow. And Cinder had to admit, this change of pace wasn't so bad. At first, when she was training to be a Mandalorian and a Maiden, she always wanted to do better, possessing a "here and now" attitude. And while she did great, a part of herself felt a little stressed. But now, having some reassurance that she had all the time she would need was a good change of pace.

Not just with her mindset, but her combat skills as well. The new time to focus on her bow had greatly enhanced her accuracy. And in time, Cinder was growing confident that once she mastered shooting with one arrow in the field, maybe she could grow to two arrows or more.

But today, Cinder had another goal in her mind. Her Scroll displayed a message from Headmaster Kenobi, requesting her presence in Haven Academy's physical training room. It seemed a new lesson was approaching fast.

Obi-Wan spent his time waiting for his student by meditating on the events to come. He had thought long and hard about the lesson he wanted Cinder to learn today, and always came back to the conclusion that it was necessary. But this time, he wouldn't be the teacher.

In the past, Obi-Wan had failed to teach the importance of letting certain emotions go in order to achieve peace and enlightenment. Many Jedi learned this lesson and made themselves one with the Force. However, Obi-Wan learned that Cinder was no Jedi. She would learn to let go of her fears, but there would still be times when her anger would be present. The Headmaster decided that Cinder needed a new lesson about control, but he was not the right teacher for this job. So he reached out to someone he had a feeling was the right person for the job.

And when the doors to the training room opened to reveal a hooded figure, Obi-Wan knew that person had just arrived.

"Night rose on the tops of the mountains, the hour grew late," the figure said as he walked closer to the Headmaster, sounding as if he was narrating a story. "And Obi-Wan Kenobi reached out to Serreno, seeking my counsel." The figure stopped in front of Obi-Wan and removed his hood, revealing a smiling man with white hair and a small white beard that stopped at his chin. "For that is why you have called me, is it not? My old friend?"

"Master Dooku," Obi-Wan said with a smile and a bowed head. "It's been a long time."

"Apparently, long enough for you to forget that I am no longer a Jedi Master. That phase of my life is over now."

"Yes, we were all upset when you chose to leave the Order." Obi-Wan's smile turned into a slight frown. "However, you may have been wise to leave the island."

"Indeed," Dooku agreed, also losing his friendly smile. "I may not be a Jedi, but I was saddened to learn of the loss of Coruscant."

"I trust you've been well, other than that? Last I heard, you were trying to gain a seat on the Mistral Council."

"While I wasn't very successful, the Council reaches out to me from time to time. I always thought my ideas were better suited for politics rather than the Order." Dooku began to move towards the door of the training room. "Perhaps we could discuss more of this outside. The sights of Haven never fail to amaze me."

Obi-Wan stayed where he was. "I'm afraid my reason for needing your help isn't one of politics, Dooku. But rather, I could use your knowledge." Obi-Wan began to explain what his past week at Haven was comprised of, mainly about Cinder's teachings and her status as the Fall Maiden.

"You are sure of this?" Dooku asked, slightly skeptical and concerned about a child wielding so much power.

"Beyond any doubt," Obi-Wan confirmed.

Dooku raised a hand to his face and slightly stroked the hair on his chin. "So the power of the Maidens has once again found a new host."

"And in a child, no less. She is strong and determined, but her current state has caused her to use her powers in an... unnatural way. She was placed in my care by both Ozpin and her father, in the hopes I can teach her control."

"...Control," Dooku slowly repeated. He had heard the phrase many times during his years as a Jedi, and was familiar with their teachings. And he had a good idea about how her training had begun. "She has meditated, no doubt?"

"That was my first lesson, and it has become successful. She says she's been able to let go of the hate she's harbored in her-"

"Let go?" Dooku looked at Obi-Wan, his brown eyes almost staring into the Jedi's soul. "Why teach her to let go of what comes naturally?"

"...Yes, this was one of the disagreements you had with the Council," Obi-Wan remembered. "I trust you still disagree about letting go of anger and fear?"

"The child needs to learn how to use her anger. Make no mistake, Obi-Wan, I learned how to do the same after I left the Order. Only then did I learn the meaning of self-discipline."

"I was hoping you would say that." Obi-Wan sensed a new presence coming to the training room, a very familiar one. "But hold onto that thought, I'd like you to share them with her now." The door opened once again to reveal Cinder, who stopped walking and stared curiously at the academy's new guest. "Hello, Cinder. Thank you for coming."

"Good morning, Headmaster," the child said as she walked closer into the room. "Am I... interrupting something?"

"No, you came at the right time. I'd like you to meet someone." Cinder looked up at the older man as Obi-Wan began to introduce him. "Cinder, this is Mas-"

"Count Dooku," the guest corrected Obi-Wan as he extended a hand. "I'm very pleased to meet you, young Maiden."

Cinder shook Dooku's hand but looked back at the Headmaster. "You told him?" she asked. "How come?"

"Because he will be your teacher for the day," Obi-Wan answered. "I asked Count Dooku to-" Obi-Wan stopped talking when he saw his friend make his way to the door of the training room.

"The child is wise to keep her status secret," said Dooku, who moved slowly to the door. Obi-Wan was about to ask what he meant by that, but then he sensed something. Through the Force, Obi-Wan sensed... a presence. A presence that caused him to use the Force to open the door and caused Count Dooku to take a curved cylinder off his waist.

There was nothing on the other side.

The two began to relax and turned back to Cinder. "Are we being watched?" she asked, ready to use her powers to defend herself.

"I thought we were," Dooku said. "But it appears I was wrong." Raising his right hand, the door closed once again. Dooku turned back to Cinder. "I apologize for the alarm, young lady. Now... let's talk."

The silence of Din Djarin's room was broken when the Mandalorian and Qrow Branwen instantly appeared in it.

"That was close," said Qrow.

"Too close," said Djarin.

Djarin had used his Semblance to secretly return to Haven Academy once a day. It was Qrow's plan, actually. When they escaped the dark assassin and rescued Sun, Djarin lamented on how he missed Cinder. Qrow remembered seeing the Mandalorian's Semblance, and it gave him the idea to use it to his advantage. The plan was simple; go to a remote location in the academy, find Cinder, and watch her for a few minutes. When Djarin tried the idea, despite the risk it posed, he felt happy for the first time since she left. He saw that she was doing better than ever, and Obi-Wan was taking great care of her. While he only saw her doing what looked like meditation, it was still good to see her again.

Qrow decided to join today's "visit" to the academy, but they had to quickly leave once an old man almost caught them on the other side of a door. Djarin decided not to go back for a little while, deciding that Cinder would be fine. "I won't be-"

He stopped talking when he saw Qrow drinking from his flask. "It's 9:00 in the morning," Djarin continued.

"Eh, it's midnight somewhere." Qrow was about to drink, but stopped himself. He had one more thing to say. "Hey, Mando. Sorry about earlier. I almost..."

Djarin turned back to Qrow. "They were bound to see us sometime."

"I doubt that."

Djarin slightly titled his helmet, confused as to what Qrow was talking about. "Why's that?"

Qrow sighed after taking another drink. "You know that crows are a sign of bad luck? You can travel anywhere on Remnant in a heartbeat-"

"It depends on my Aura," Djarin reminded the Huntsman.

"Right. Well, my Semblance isn't like most. It's not exactly something I do. It's always there, whether I like it or not. I bring misfortune." Qrow began to laugh to himself. "I guess you could call me a bad luck charm. Comes in real handy when I'm fighting an enemy, but it makes it a little hard on..." Qrow took another drink without finishing his sentence.

"In that case... it's fine," the Mandalorian said as he began to understand and sit down. Since it was a Saturday, Djarin didn't have any classes to teach. He instead had time to think about the events that occurred the last time he left Beacon. He wasn't concerned about Aurora or about Sun's safety anymore. But now, he was concerned about the warrior he faced. The warrior was strong, cunning, and his apparent link to the Force made him even more dangerous. Djarin hated thinking about it, but if it wasn't for the help he received, he could have died. And the Darksaber would have been in the hands of that... monster.

And Djarin couldn't have that.

"Qrow, I think you should go," Djarin said.

Qrow stopped drinking and looked at the Mandalorian. "How come?"

"I need some sleep." Djarin was still feeling weak and tired after the encounter, it seemed to have taken a lot of energy out of him. And sleeping it off really helped.

"It's 9:00," Qrow retorted. "Oh, right. It's midnight somewhere." With a chuckle, the Huntsman let the Mandalorian get some rest.

"So you see, that is why I left the Order," said Dooku, who had just finished a story about why he left the Jedi Order. He had just told Cinder that he believed such emotions could be beneficial for a Force-wielder, but the Order disagreed. "After I left, I began to study and test my ideas by myself."

"How did it go?" Cinder curiously asked.

"I've never felt better. I'm no longer the man I once was." Dooku turned to Obi-Wan. "But I understand why Master Kenobi would disagree with my ideas. He's told me you've come a long way with your meditation."

"I think I have. I feel a little different about my past now. But there are some things I can't really let go."

"Which is why it is time for you to use them." Dooku looked back to Obi-Wan once more. "With your permission, of course."

"Cinder is not a Jedi," said Obi-Wan. "So learning how to use her emotions rather than getting rid of them altogether may be beneficial for her."

Dooku was glad that Obi-Wan was in agreement, but he sensed some doubt from Cinder. So he looked back to the child and asked a question. "Is something wrong, Cinder?"

Something was more than wrong with Cinder. "Count Dooku, I appreciate you coming out all this way," she slowly began. "But the last time I used my anger, I hurt someone I really care about. If I don't learn how to let it go, I could do more harm than good."

"I understand your reluctance, but simply letting go of your feelings cannot make all your problems go away. You cannot ignore or try to remove what is a part of you, a part of all of us." Dooku put a hand on Cinder's shoulder. "Don't mistake my intentions, I do not wish for you to embrace these feelings. I wish for you to control them. Only then will you have the power to release it when you choose."

Cinder looked at Obi-Wan, who was nodding. "Cinder, when you first came to me, your fear and anger were your masters," he said. "Meditation helps you let go of irrational anger, and now I believe you have the ability to control and choose when to release it. Only then, will you become a master of yourself."

"..."

Cinder took a few minutes to think about the ideas these men offered. She was still worried she might hurt her father again, but Obi-Wan's words presented a good point. She hurt Djarin because she lacked control of her anger. It seemed possible that it was controlling her, but Cinder knew her actions were still her fault. And being a master of oneself didn't solely mean knowing one's strengths and weaknesses. Conquering and controlling such weaknesses was the next step.

So without a counterargument, Cinder agreed to the Count's idea. "Where do we start?" she asked.

"Here and now." Dooku removed the curved cylinder once again, and a blue blade appeared. Cinder realized that this was going to be a sparring duel, and that she would need her swords. So she turned to the exit to get her swords. Dooku was just about to call out to her, but Obi-Wan stopped him.

"She has weapons of her own," the Headmaster explained. "Two that she holds dear."

"What are they?" Dooku asked curiously. "Don't tell me they're those transforming guns, the ones that children love these days." He rolled his eyes in annoyance of someone using something other than a sophisticated weapon such as a lightsaber.

"So uncivilized," Obi-Wan quickly agreed. "But no, Cinder has two Beskar swords that were gifted by her Mandalorian tribe."

"Mandalorian?" Dooku turned back to where Cinder had left, surprised that he had been talking to an apparent Mandalorian all this time. "I can't remember the last time the Jedi and Mandalorians were friends."

"Yes, but a lot has changed since then."

"Is she really one of them? She seems too young to wear their armor."

"True, she's not old enough for her own suit. But you would do better than to underestimate her. Cinder's adoptive father has been teaching her much of his people ever since he found her. And from the training I've seen her do on her own, Cinder has been taught well."

Just then, the door opened to reveal Cinder with her scorched blades. Dooku took this as a sign to proceed with the lesson and swung the blade in front of his face. Lowering it to his right side, the former Jedi gave the child his blessing to attack. "Now then, show me what you can do."

"Hail to the Mand'alor!"

"Lead us!"

"Wield the Darksaber!"

"This is the Way!"

Djarin awoke with a gasp, his forehead cold and sweaty. He didn't know what time it was, or how long he had been asleep.

But all he cared about was the dream he had once again. Before he would wake up in a similar fashion, Djarin would find himself in a cold, dark room. His only companions were the ground he was sitting on and the numerous voices surrounding him, telling him it was time to take the title of Mandalore's ruler. This had been a recurring dream since before the assassin, but Djarin was able to ignore them. Only now, the dream seemed to be longer and the voices were much louder. Even now, wide awake, the Mandalorian could still hear them.

Ever since he gained the weapon, Djarin always dismissed the idea of being the Manda'lor. Each time the idea was brought up, Djarin always used the same excuse; he wasn't a leader. And yet, everyone he talked to had some idea as to what he could do with the blade. Cinder and the leader of Clan Vizsla expressed optimism of him being the Manda'lor, talking about how he was a symbol of freedom. Sun seemed to believe that if there was no other worthy leader, Djarin would be a great candidate. It seemed a lot of people would trust him.

So why couldn't he trust himself?

Djarin decided not to answer that question. Now, he had another goal in mind; Din Djarin was more than ready to pass on the Darksaber to someone who was worthy, who could help the Mandalorians fight Salem.

As he left his room, Djarin pondered the idea of who he could entrust the Darksaber to. The Armorer would most likely refuse it, since the Children of the Watch had no interest in the majority of Mandalore. Clan Wren had some promising candidates, especially Sabine. However, they would make themselves harder to find after escaping the Atlesian prison. The same could be said for Clan Eldar, after the war with Clan Saxon. Bo-Katan wanted the saber more than anyone, but she would be willing to kill Djarin and send Mandalorians back to a dead land.

Clan Vizsla was willing to follow Djarin, but it was possible they could lead as well. And given the last Mand'alor was Tarre Vizsla, it seemed fitting to return the Darksaber back to his people. So Djarin decided to find them as soon as possible. And lucky for him, Pax Vizsla told him just where to go.

So Djarin plotted a course for the Forever Fall in the Razor Crest.

Obi-Wan was surprised to see how much Djarin had taught Cinder about fighting. Although she lacked the skill of a former Jedi Master, she proved to be more than capable of holding her own against the Count of Serreno. And Dooku, given the great warrior and swordsman he was, had been doing nothing but block Cinder's strikes and lead her in the right direction.

"Stop using such standard attacks!" said Dooku, who was using his blue blade to make one of her swords swing to the side. He could sense that Cinder was growing annoyed by his slogans and critiques, so he continued in the hopes that she would release her anger. "Use the unorthodox!"

Cinder surprisingly found herself listening to Dooku whenever he talked, despite how annoyed she was at how easily he was holding his own. Then again, it was hard to ignore something right in front of you. Nevertheless, Cinder granted Dooku's request by unleashing her Maiden powers. After her next strike, she slightly opened her left hand to let a wave of fire soar towards Dooku. He quickly flew to the side of the room to dodge the fire.

"Good," said Dooku, staring at the burning fire in Cinder's eyes. "You're able to control my central line." Rather than thank the Count, Cinder charged at him with the tips of her swords aiming at his chest. In order to defend himself, Dooku simply closed his eyes and moved his left hand. Cinder suddenly felt herself fly towards the wall, colliding into it. Engaging her Aura quickly, Cinder jumped back at Dooku, who continued to block each strike.

"Faster, destroy my focus!"

Cinder kept swinging her blades and blasting fire in his face.

"You're holding the sword too tight!"

As soon as Cinder loosened her grip on one of her swords, Dooku's next strike sent the blade flying in the air. Dooku effortlessly caught it and turned off his lightsaber. "Now, too lightly," he said as Cinder fell to the ground. Obi-Wan rushed over and tried to help her stand.

"I'm fine!" Cinder shouted as she stood up herself. When she looked back to Obi-Wan, the look of caution on his face made Cinder regret her sudden outburst. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean..." Sighing as she put her other sword down, the child looked up at her second teacher. "Count Dooku, I'm not sure this is helping. All this fighting was just me acting out, I was being childish."

"Then don't let your frustrations cloud your reality," Dooku advised. "That is where warriors like you and I will be at our most vulnerable." Dooku kneeled down to Cinder. "You have potential, Cinder. More than I could expect of someone your age."

Cinder sighed again. "Thank you. And, if I'm being honest, I was letting some of my anger out during the fight."

"I have sensed it as well. While there is certainly room for improvement, there were times when you chose those moments very wisely." He held out one of the swords just out of her reach. "Emotions are more important in battle than you realize. In order to succeed against anyone who challenges you, you must have fear, surprise, and intimidation on your side. For if any one element is lacking... it would be best for you to retreat. You must break them before you engage them. Do you understand?"

Cinder thought about the idea. She remembered how the cave used her fears against her, and how she fled once the vision was over. Using such emotions against the enemy would ensure victory. In order to do that, Cinder knew what she had to do for herself. "I understand..." she began as she turned to Obi-Wan. "I understand that I need to master my own fear before I can use it against anyone."

Obi-Wan smiled at Cinder's insight, proud that she was willing to continue self-mastery. Dooku found himself chuckling, which caused Cinder and Obi-Wan to turn towards him. "A brilliant mind and an able body," he said as he turned to Obi-Wan. "The child is indeed remarkable."

As Cinder smiled at Dooku's compliment, Obi-Wan made a reminder to the Count. "I told you not to underestimate her."

"Indeed." Dooku looked down to the young Maiden. "Cinder, I believe I may not have anything left to teach you. If you truly wish to keep learning, meditate on what I've told you as well as our duel. Seek improvements and seek ways to release your anger rather than remove or embrace them."

"I will," Cinder promised. "Thank you, Count Dooku."

"Thank your master." Dooku gestured to Obi-Wan. "He was the one who invited me here in the first place."

"And I will be the one to show you out," Obi-Wan said as he joined Dooku towards the door. Cinder decided to spend a little more time in the training room with her swords, swinging them as if there was an opponent in front of her.

"So you see, that's why I'm here. It's time for me to pass the mantle to someone who's worthy."

Din Djarin was standing in a field of tall trees with leaves as red as blood. He had never been to the Forever Fall before, so he wasn't expecting it to be so large, or so red. He thought it would take a while to find Clan Vizsla, but two scouts in the trees made themselves known when they jumped down. Once Djarin explained his business at the forest, they took him to an old stronghold where Pax Vizsla resided.

And the leader was more than surprised at the visit and the presentation of the Darksaber. At the moment, he was holding it and examining the blade.

"I'm honored you would choose our clan to wield it," said Pax. "But I'm surprised you feel you can't wield it yourself."

"Actually, I've had some practice with Grimm and Death Watch. I was referring to-"

"You found Death Watch?" The Mandalorians surrounding Djarin moved closer when they heard this and were interested in learning more. "Where?"

"The island of Vytal," Djarin responded.

One Mandalorian, a woman who earlier disagreed with a Child of the Watch wielding the Darksaber, found herself respecting the visitor who claimed to have found Death Watch. "What were you doing there?" she asked.

"An ally of mine sought vengeance against them, for killing her team and branding her."

"And?"

"After I defeated their leader and she reclaimed her friend's weapons, they were arrested."

"Impressive. If the True Mandalorians weren't extinct, they would be proud."

Some of the other Mandalorians were impressed by this victory, but another woman asked another question. "You sold out Death Watch?" she accused. "How do we know you're not here to do the same to us?"

Before Pax could tell her to calm down, Djarin defended himself. "I came here alone, you searched my ship before taking me here. I promise no one is here to attack you."

"Let him talk, Steela," Pax ordered.

"You trust him?" Steela asked.

"He freed us before, and now he wants to give us the chance to make sure nobody can control our clan again." Pax turned off the Darksaber and lowered it. "However, I'm not sure if I can take it."

"What?" Djarin and the other Mandalorians asked.

"Before our previous leader was killed by Gideon, I promised that I would protect our clan and make sure nobody could enslave us again."

"You have a chance to keep that promise by taking the Darksaber," Djarin argued.

"Maybe, but our clan has no desire to rule with this sword."

One of the Mandalorians spoke up. "We will make sure no tyrant holds the Darksaber again. And it seems Pax doesn't see you as a tyrant."

"I don't wish to rule either," said Djarin. "I'm no leader."

Pax was silent for a moment, as he was choosing his next words very carefully. He knew that Djarin was supposed to hold the Darksaber, but Djarin didn't know it himself. So he had an idea to show him why. "Djarin... do you believe in destiny?" he asked.

"What?" Djarin asked in confusion.

"Do you believe there is something you must do in your life, before you die? Something that calls to you?"

"I... think there's one thing like that." Djarin couldn't help but think about Cinder. It took him a while, but he felt that he was truly supposed to be her father.

"I do as well," Pax said. "Which is why I know there is a destiny for me that doesn't involve this blade. If you like, I can show you why."

"...I don't understand," Djarin admitted. It seemed that Pax was doing anything he could to make sure he didn't wield the Darksaber. And Djarin wanted to know why.

Lucky for him, Pax was willing to explain why.

"There's an abandoned city outside the city of Vale. A place where our true brothers and sisters reside. Go there, ask for Mi Tenau. She will show you why my destiny is not to wield this blade." Pax put the Darksaber on his belt. "But as a sign of good faith, I will hold onto it until you return. Perhaps that will ease some of the burden you carry."

"..."

Djarin wasn't sure what to think. He slightly appreciated the gesture of relieving the Darksaber, but he wasn't sure why Pax couldn't take it permanently. All Djarin wanted to do was find a worthy successor who could do more than he ever could, but that didn't seem to be possible. Nevertheless, maybe this "Mi Tenau" could shed some light on the situation. So he reluctantly went back to his ship and charted a course for the only abandoned city outside Vale; Mountain Glenn.

After a while of walking throughout the wooden and furnished stone hallways of Haven Academy, Obi-Wan turned to Dooku. "Are you sure you won't stay longer?" he asked.

"The child has learned her lesson," the Count replied. "I merely wished to use combat to demonstrate this lesson. The rest she needs to learn by herself."

"You may be right. I truly appreciate you coming here, this may have been for the best."

"It's a rare occurrence, seeing you doubt yourself so much. Disheartening as well."

"I have my reasons. I lost Anakin, I cannot lose the child."

"Indeed." Count Dooku knew his next question would cause some distress for the Headmaster, but he had to know the truth. "Have you found his body yet?"

Obi-Wan stopped walking. "...No," he confessed. "I've been returning to Coruscant whenever I have time. I keep going back to the same place... nothing's changed."

"...Then he is not dead."

"Alive or dead, that doesn't change anything." Obi-Wan walked again. "I failed him."

"Do not condemn yourself. I've only met the boy once, I could have shown him what I showed Cinder today. And the rest of the Jedi's teachings no doubt-"

"That is not what I am talking about." Obi-Wan stopped walking again and sighed. "Master Qui-Gon entrusted his fate in my hands. And look where we are now."

Dooku lowered his head at the mention of that name. "It's a great pity our paths had never crossed before his passing. Qui-Gon always spoke very highly of you." His head lowered even further. "...I wish he were... still alive."

"I could use his help right now," said Obi-Wan.

Count Dooku took a breath before raising his head. "You forget that he was once my apprentice as you were once his. And there was a time where he lacked confidence, just as you do now."

"He was always so sure of himself, even in his final moments. It seems what you taught changed his life."

"Take my advice, old friend." Dooku put a hand on Obi-Wan's shoulder. "Where there is doubt, focus on what you know is certain. Qui-Gon always focused on what he believed and knew to be certain, which actually strengthened his connection to the Force."

"I can think of a few things," Obi-Wan said as he turned back to the direction of the training room.

"Focus on her. Remind yourself that she is the Fall Maiden and she needs your help."

"I will."

Dooku placed his hood over his head once again before leaving. "And do not place the failings of the Jedi on your shoulders. Perhaps there was more you could have done, but the same could be said for every member of the Order."

"...Perhaps."

The Headmaster and Count bowed their heads to each other before Dooku made his way to the main door of the building. Once he was gone, Obi-Wan turned around. "Eavesdropping is considered to be rude, you know."

Out of the shadows of the hallway came Cinder, who had a somber expression on her face. "I don't think you're failing me, you know," she said honestly. "I mean, there's still a lot I need to do, but this was a great idea."

Obi-Wan smiled when he heard that. He certainly had his doubts about this lesson, not seeing it as the Jedi way. However, Cinder was different among the other students Obi-Wan mentored and helped. And there was no need to teach her alone, which had the potential to make things harder.

But at the back of his mind, Obi-Wan was wondering what the effect of Count Dooku's lesson was. He never learned such a strategy in fighting. Was it possible to improve himself by fighting like this? Was it possible to learn new things like this?

Maybe.

But not from a Jedi.

Landing in the ruins of Mountain Glenn was harder than Djarin expected. All over the ground was debris from broken buildings and the rooftops were too unstable to let the Razor Crest stay on. So with some reluctance, Djarin fired on the ground to clear a portion of the rubble.

Once the airship touched the ground, Djarin found himself to be the target of a pack of Beowolves. But killing them was child's play to Djarin, as his rifle and knife were superior to reckless lunges and slashes.

As soon as they were taken care of, Djarin travelled deeper into the city. He knew about the tragedy that occurred here, how the citizens didn't stand a chance against the Grimm. The situation was so bad that nobody bothered to rebuild it. There was nothing here but dust and ruins.

And all Djarin could think of was that it was the perfect place for a tribe of Mandalorians to stay. He was surprised he and Cinder never thought of looking here when they were trying to find clans to guide them on their quest. But then again, he had no idea what these Mandalorians were like. They must have made a living of killing roaming Grimm in a place like this, maybe they were capable of killing a Goliath.

The sound of rubble falling made Djarin turn to a destroyed restaurant. Taking his scope off his rifle, the Mandalorian scanned every building around him. But in the end, there was nothing to be seen.

"Olarom, Din Djarin." (Welcome, Din Djarin.)

Djarin turned around with his scope-less rifle to see what appeared to be a Mandalorian wearing gold armor. There were some blue aspects to the armor, but it was mostly gold, even the helmet. This man had his hands up while continuing to speak. "You won't need that. You're among friends here."

Djarin began to lower his rifle. "Did Pax Vizsla tell you I was coming?" he asked.

"He did. You're here to seek guidance about the Darksaber."

"I don't have it with me. As a sign of good faith, Pax Vizsla offered to keep it safe."

"As well as ease the burden you carry, brother." The gold Mandalorian slowly approached closer to Djarin with his hands up.

Djarin decided to take a risk and completely lower his rifle. The Mandalorian before him lowered his hands and stopped walking. "So you know about the Darksaber," he said.

"Yes," the Mandalorian said. "My clan was surprised to hear about its discovery. And that you saved them and us from enslavement."

Djarin was confused by the second part of that claim. "I don't think I've met your clan before."

"We haven't met, you're right. But Clan Vizsla and Clan Tenau have been allies since the Great War ended. We were formed from a division between various clans, we didn't exist until after the war was over. When Clan Vizsla were enslaved, we feared it was only a matter of time before this 'Major Gideon' would force them to share our location."

"I claimed the Darksaber from Gideon, and he's rotting in an Atlesian jail cell. You won't be seeing him anytime soon."

"And to show our gratitude, we wish to help you in your time of need." The Mandalorian began to walk away from Djarin. "If you're willing, I can take you to the rest of the clan."

Djarin decided to take the offer, but made sure to have his Semblance ready in case things went sour. As they walked through the ruined streets, Djarin looked for any places where another Mandalorian could be hiding. As he did, the Mandalorian in front of him began to talk again. "Pax says you're a Child of the Watch."

"I am," Djarin confirmed. "You don't seem bothered by it. Most Mandalorians look down on my people."

"I have to admit, not showing your face was always one of the stranger customs in our past. But I don't believe I'm in any position to judge you."

"Why's that?"

"Clan Tenau has some unique traits. Along with being born after the Great War, we choose not to wield Aura."

"No Aura?"

It was rare for Djarin to meet someone who fought Grimm and other people for a living without Aura. It was one of the riskiest and dumbest things someone could do, fighting against a Semblance and not having your own. "Isn't that dangerous?" Djarin asked.

"Extremely," said the golden Mandalorian. "But this gives us a chance to grow without relying on a force field and superpower to protect us. In this world, we can only rely on our own strength. And in order to prove to the Kingdoms we are strong, we must be able to defeat their warriors who choose to use Aura. Only then can we prove who the Mandalorians are."

"That's... a unique philosophy. So is the Way of the Mandalore."

"Indeed. However, there's only one person we've allowed to have an Aura. Mi was a Foundling who unlocked her Aura while protecting herself from the Grimm at a very young age."

"Mi Tenau? Why did you let her join you?"

"Because her Semblance is what keeps us safe." The Mandalorian stopped in front of a large hole in the ground. "Come with me, and you will see why."

Jumping down into the hole, the Mandalorians used their jet packs to slow their descent. Once they touched the ground, Djarin could see an underground city. Buildings and a railroad track populated the city, along with other gold Mandalorians, who all saw Djarin and seemed to recognize him as their king. Djarin assumed that was why they were all kneeling before him.

"They shouldn't be doing that," he said. "I don't know if I'm going to be-"

"They respect you," said the Mandalorian. "Not just for wielding the Darksaber, but saving us as well."

Djarin still felt uncomfortable about the situation, so he decided to tell the truth. "When I gained the Darksaber, my goal was to save my daughter."

"Then there is another thing Clan Tenau can respect about you. Parents should always fight to save their children. Anything less would make them unworthy."

The Mandalorian entered a smaller building and led Djarin upstairs. On the third floor was a set of rooms with one door open. Walking inside, the Mandalorians saw another Mandalorian in bronze armor kneeling in front of a fire.

"Mi, Din Djarin has arrived," said the Mand'alor's escort.

Mi Tenau looked up to see a Mandalorian in chrome armor. Turning to her left, she nodded and gave the escort permission to leave. Djarin sat before the Mandalorian as she spoke again. "Welcome, Din Djarin," she said. "Do you know why you are here?"

"Pax Vizsla sent me," said Djarin. "He told me you showed him his... destiny."

"And so I did. I trust you were told I am the only member of Clan Tenau with an Aura and Semblance?"

"Yes. I learned it's the only thing keeping your people safe. Are you shielding yourself from the Grimm?"

"No. Like any Mandalorian, we fight to protect ourselves." The Mandalorian extended her hand over the fire. "Let me show you what I can do."

Djarin reluctantly extended his hand and took Mi's. As he did, a white light extended across her hand and spread onto Djarin's. After a few seconds, the light began to spread a tingling sensation on his hand, despite the Beskar being there. It suddenly returned to Mi's hand, where it lingered and disappeared.

"The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Queen approaches," said Mi, in a much deeper voice that contradicted the voice Djarin heard before. While one could easily fake a voice as an impression, this was certainly unnatural.

"Dark Queen?" Djarin asked in confusion. "Wait a minute, are you talking about-?"

"In time, the vanquished will have no choice but to surrender to the true Mand'alor, for they will have a power the Dark Queen knows not. Until the true Mand'alor is revealed, the Foundling will protect the Darksaber with his life. No other Mandalorian must wield it while the Dark Queen remains in power. All is as it must be."

The light disappeared.

Mi Tenau stood up and walked over to Djarin. "You have questions, I assume?" she asked.

Djarin was starting to refocus on the reality of his situation as he turned to Mi. "What... What did you do?"

"My Semblance allows me to see into the future. It is how I have kept my people safe, I know when it is time to fight and when it is time to find a new home."

"What you said earlier... that was my future? My... destiny?"

"Yes. It took longer than most of my readings. I can see you're not one to normally believe in destiny." Before Djarin could say that he agreed with her, Mi Tenau asked another question. "And yet, you find yourself relating to what I said, do you not?"

Djarin only had two things he could relate to; the fact that he was a Foundling and that his current goal was to stop Salem. He never mentioned those things to anyone outside his clan and Cinder, there was no way she could have known for herself. "I am a Foundling, you're right," he confessed.

"And you are an enemy of the Dark Queen." Djarin turned back to Mi as she explained. "We know the Grimm have a master. Her control over the Grimm here is very faint, but undeniable once you observe them."

"How did you know who she is?"

"I have seen her before. In one of my visions my Semblance gave me. I remember it now. I used it on a follower of hers, a man shrouded in black. Save for a white and red mask."

Djarin's eyes widened as he visualized what Mi just described. "I saw him before. Where is he now?"

"Unfortunately, he escaped our capture. I was only able to see the Queen he serves, as well as his untimely demise. What I don't know however, is who she is or where she has come from."

"I... don't know where she came from either. But I know her name. It's Salem."

Mi Tenau walked over to the room's window and looked outside. "It's easy to tell which Grimm Salem controls and which ones she doesn't, once you spend enough time among them."

Djarin walked over to her. "And you knew that I was once a Foundling."

"Yes. As I know you are not the true Mand'alor, you are it's protector."

"...I have to protect the Darksaber."

"Yes."

"...What must I do?"

Mi Tenau looked over to Djarin. "There's a path you take, and a path untaken. The choice is yours, my friend."

"..."

Days passed.

Djarin attended his job at Beacon regularly, but would always go back to Mountain Glenn when he had the time. When questioned by Ozpin about it, Djarin lied and said he was bounty hunting. He wasn't sure how the Headmaster or other authorities would react to Mandalorians hiding out there.

Clan Tenau taught Djarin much. Along with training on how to wield the Darksaber, they taught Djarin about their experiences with Salem's followers, mainly a group of people who shared the same origin as the man in the mask. Djarin's eyes were opened to a new kind of threat, which made him take his role as the Darksaber's carrier more seriously. He still wasn't sure as to who the true Mand'alor was or when they would reveal themselves, but all Djarin could do was be patient.

After a lesson about Salem's subtle control over the Grimm, Djarin went hunting and killed them all. The goal of Clan Tenau's exercise was open mockery to Salem, although Djarin wasn't sure it was working. Then again, the increased presence of Grimm in Mountain Glenn might help with that.

It even got to the point where Huntsmen like Qrow were called in to help. When he met with Djarin, the Mandalorian insisted the two hunt together. However, there were a few times when Djarin was caught by Grimm and almost hurt.

Qrow knew why this was happening and addressed the issue when they were resting.

"Mando, listen. I think we should work separately for the rest of the day," he said.

"No," Djarin stubbornly argued. "We're finishing this together."

"Are you kidding? You almost got eaten, three times!"

"I know."

"Oh, you know?!" Qrow was growing annoyed not just at Djarin, but at himself. "I'm not sure if you remember our last chit-chat, but my Semblance is the thing that's getting you hurt!"

"I know. That's why I need you."

"Oh, well that's good to know! At least I'm helping you risk your-!" Qrow suddenly stopped ranting, he instead began to replay Djarin's words in his head. "What did you say?"

"I need to work with you," Djarin responded, looking down at his rifle.

"But... I can't control my Semblance."

"I know. And that's helping me."

"...What?" Qrow was beginning to think that maybe the Mandalorians were just as crazy as everyone said they were. "How?"

"Your Semblance isn't as much as a curse as you might think. It's a reminder for me to keep my skills honed." Djarin looked up from his rifle. "That I always need to watch my back, be prepared for anything. Not just for me, but for Cinder." Djarin walked over to Qrow. "You're being more useful than ever. I thought you would have realized that by now."

As Djarin walked past the confused Huntsman, Qrow began to think about what he just heard. Ever since he unlocked it, Qrow's Misfortune had affected everyone around him. It was useful for fighting Grimm and bandits, but it had a toll on his team as well as his friends. Nobody ever wanted him around. It was easy to say that he was cursed. And even easier to see that working alone was for the best.

But here was someone who knew the danger the young Huntsman posed. Here was someone who knew the risk of being in his presence, but wanted to stay. Not only that, but he made Qrow feel that he wasn't as cursed as he thought. The only other person to think that was Ozpin, who did everything he could to give him a purpose in Remnant.

For the first time since losing Summer, Qrow began to think that life wasn't so bad anymore. He thought that maybe he could make a connection without his Semblance making things... complicated.

Djarin was just about to continue his hunt for Grimm, but his gauntlet had other plans for him.

Incoming Call: Glynda Goodwitch

Djarin answered the call to hear Glynda's voice, which sounded like she was in a hurry. "Djarin, where are you right now?" she asked frantically.

"Glynda? I'm coming back to Beacon right-"

"Don't come to Beacon. I need you to meet us at the hospital."

"What? Why?"

"Cinder's here."

Author's notes: hey, everyone. Hope you all enjoyed the chapter, please let me know what you think. Thanks!

TheCourtofTalons · Sep 19, 2023

Chapter 29: The Challenge

Evening came to Haven as it always did. The sun was setting and a broken moon would soon rise and watch the academy. But the only difference today was Cinder's training. After a series of meditations in the morning and some practice with her swords in the afternoon, Cinder was prepared to use both her swords and Maiden powers this time. She rarely used the Beskar arrows that she carried all the way from Nevarro in her quiver, but she decided to practice her archery once she returned to Beacon. She had taken Count Dooku's lessons very seriously and was able to practice with them against an invisible opponent. And as she was prepared to do the same thing this evening, her Scroll made a noise to let her know that a message had come for her from Obi-Wan Kenobi.

"Cinder, I'd like to see you in my office."

Cinder's walk to Obi-Wan's office was a peaceful one. She hadn't felt this relaxed ever since she came to Haven in the first place. Whenever she met with Obi-Wan, the child believed that the training she would endure was going to be difficult. A part of her also doubted that she could do it. But now, she felt that she had come a very long way. She felt at peace, ready to take on whatever challenge laid before her. Because after he left, Cinder decided not to work to just be able to return to her father. For a little while now, Cinder had decided to work hard to be ready for her role in life. She owed a lot of people to do that.

So Cinder confidently knocked on Obi-Wan's door. "Come in," a voice on the other side said. Cinder opened the door to find the Headmaster sitting at his desk, going over pieces of paper. "Cinder, thank you for coming. I'm sorry I haven't talked to you today, things have been busy around here all of a sudden."

"It's fine," the Maiden said as she took a seat. "I can wait."

Obi-Wan looked up at Cinder with a smile. "Actually, that's what I was hoping to talk to you about today." Obi-Wan rose from his desk and walked over to Cinder, the papers moving into a folder seemingly by themselves. "I've been watching you very closely during your training. And I can finally say that I'm proud of you."

Cinder's eyes widened at the surprise. "You are?"

"Of course. It's very obvious that you're not the same girl you were when you first came to Haven." Obi-Wan kneeled down to her level. "I can see it in your eyes. You've become much more patient, much more disciplined with your anger."

"You have Count Dooku to thank for that, actually. And I have you to thank for inviting him here."

"That being said, I've meditated long and hard about the decision I made last night. I decided that... your training with me is nearly complete."

Cinder's heart skipped a beat. She knew she was getting better, but she wasn't expecting to have made that much progress already. Of course, she had lost track of how many days she had been at Haven, but she felt that she would be here longer.

"You have every right to be excited," said Obi-Wan, referring to the wide smile Cinder had formed without knowing. "But let me ask you a question. Do you feel ready?"

Cinder could feel her smile disappear. "Well... I don't know," she honestly answered. "I mean, I really feel like I learned a lot, but something's telling me that there's more I could do." She looked up at Obi-Wan. "That there's more you can teach me, Headmaster."

"I do have more lessons I am capable of teaching, Cinder. But these lessons are more suited for a Jedi. The basics, which you seem to have mastered by now, are all I wished to teach you."

Cinder felt a sense of pride with the praise from Obi-Wan. "So you think I'm a master of myself?" she asked with confidence.

"Not exactly. You still have much to learn, mainly with your powers. But you've taken great steps at Haven, and I feel there is but one more challenge you must accomplish before your time here is over."

Cinder shot up off the chair and moved closer to the desk. "Tell me!" she said excitedly. "I'm ready!"

Obi-Wan sighed as he stood up. "I'm afraid it's not that simple, Cinder." He walked over to one of the windows. "You said you believe there's more you can do here. Is that right?"

Cinder didn't move. "Yes, I said that," she replied.

"Do you honestly believe that?"

"Well... I feel like there's at least one more thing I should do."

"You feel something calling you, don't you?"

"...Calling me? I... I don't know if I would say it like that, but I know there's something I need to do."

"Can you think of a time where you had that feeling before?"

"..."

Cinder was beyond confused at this point. Why was Obi-Wan being so cryptic about her final task? What could he possibly want her to do? Cinder was thinking that Obi-Wan seemed to want her to answer these questions for herself, that the answer wouldn't be given freely. So with some reluctance, Cinder began to think about a time where she felt she needed to do something. She thought about all her meditation practice, her weapons training, her release of anger. But Cinder felt that she had accomplished all of this, that she gave everything she had and succeeded. The only time where she didn't feel like this was when she failed in the-

Cinder suddenly understood. She knew what Obi-Wan wanted her to do, where he wanted her to go. This realization caused the child's heart to fall into her stomach, caused cold sweat to drip down her forehead. Doubt filled her mind as fear settled into her heart. During all of this, Cinder kept telling herself one thing; she couldn't go back to the cave.

Obi-Wan sensed her feelings with ease. Which is why he carefully extended his hand to Cinder with a smile. "Don't worry," he said. "I'll walk there with you."

The walk took the same amount of time as it did before, but Cinder felt like it was taking an eternity. She was still wrapping her head around the idea about going back to the cave. Nothing, not even her training and new control, could have prepared the young Maiden for this.

Yet here she was, just outside the unwelcoming cave.

As Cinder stared at the cave entrance, Obi-Wan looked down to her. Without looking back, Cinder asked him a question. "Is this really what I have to do, Headmaster?"

"Yes, Cinder," Obi-Wan answered, still sensing her fear. "It calls to you."

"...I know." Cinder wasn't able to use the Force, but she had a feeling the cave was waiting for her. Like a hunter watching its prey, Cinder knew the cave was waiting for her to come inside.

No.

No, it wasn't the cave. It was... whatever lived in it that was waiting for Cinder.

"I know you're afraid," said Obi-Wan, who put a hand on her shoulder and kneeled down to her. "This is your final lesson; you must control your fear, as you've been able to control your hate and anger." Obi-Wan had learned this lesson before, when he was Cinder's age. Like her, he was scared out of his mind. But he knew once the trial was finished, he had walked away a stronger person. And he had every confidence Cinder would do the same. "You must enter it... alone."

Cinder nodded in understand, but had one more question. One more thing she didn't understand. "What's in there?" she asked, wishing to know her enemy.

"Only what you take with you," Obi-Wan responded. Just then, he stood up and removed his hand off her shoulder. Cinder took this as a sign that it was time to take her final test. As she walked towards the mouth, Obi-Wan had one last thing to say. "May the Force be you."

Cinder continued her walk through the cave, the stalactites and stalagmites were her only companions. The sound of water dripping onto the floor filled the cave once again. Cinder found herself stopping a few times to take a few deep breaths and calm down.

"You can do it," she said to herself. "You have to do it."

The only things that were able to comfort her were the fire she made in her palm and firmly holding her Mythosaur necklace. The fire's warmth and the symbol on her neck made her go forward and not stop for anything.

The only thing that did stop her was the wall at the end of the cave. And the crack staring at her.

Cinder knew what she had to do. Just reach out and touch the crack. Easy as pie.

And yet it was one of the hardest things Cinder could do. She couldn't even raise her hand from her side. She wasn't ready to face the vision, or whatever it was, again. She didn't want to fight her father, she didn't want to know that everything she did at Haven was for nothing.

Cinder's seconds thoughts came quickly, and she turned around to head back. Just as she did, Cinder could see the sunlight. That was when she found Djarin helping her once again.

"You're in a tunnel right now, Cinder. You think everything is hopeless and dark, since that's the only thing you're seeing. But there's something else in that tunnel."

Cinder remembered what it was; a light. A light that would help her out of the tunnel and make everything okay. But in order to find that light, Cinder would have to turn around and place her hand on the crack.

And that's exactly what she did.

The white light blinded Cinder once again, only for a moment. And just like last time, the light revealed a dim room, the large vault under Beacon Tower. Cinder looked around, expecting to find the rock on top of Djarin once again. However, the Mandalorian greeted her once again by standing a few feet in front of her.

"Buir," Cinder calmly greeted the vision in Mando'a. (Father.)

"You were wrong to return here unprepared," said Djarin.

Cinder knew what was about to occur, even though the mere thought scared her beyond belief. And yet, she found herself removing her swords from the sheath on her back. "I'm ready this time," she said, doing the best she could to hide her fear.

Although his helmet hid his face, Cinder knew Djarin was looking at her blades. He knew she was ready for another duel. "You think this changes anything?" he asked harshly.

"No," Cinder replied. "Facing you... taking responsibility for what I did... I have to prove that I'm ready. That I've changed."

The Darksaber slid into Djarin's right hand. "Then let's see what fate your courage will bring you." The black blade appeared with a hiss, and Djarin took it in both hands. Cinder threw her swords up when Djarin struck down, creating three locked blades.

Cinder pushed back with all her strength, even using her Maiden powers to create wind. With her eyes burning, Cinder was able to use her powers to push Djarin back. Cinder rushed forward and struck this time, leaving Djarin on the defensive. He began to apply force on the weapon, causing Cinder to push back with one sword.

The Maiden used her other sword to send a strike towards Djarin's arm, but he quickly blocked it with his gauntlet. With a yell, the Mandalorian struck the Darksaber towards Cinder's other sword.

That was when Cinder used Dooku's training. With a yell and with a surge of anger, Cinder moved her sword to let the Darksaber hit the ground. Using a concentrated amount of anger, Cinder struck both swords on the Darksaber's blade, making the weapon fly out of Djarin's hands and slide on the ground.

"Impressive," said Djarin, who seemed to admit that he had been defeated. Cinder tapped one of her swords on his shoulder, which made the Mandalorian kneel." Is this how you'll end it?"

The fire in Cinder's eyes and her scowl disappeared as she let go of her anger. "No," she said as she placed her weapons back on her back. "Dad... I'm not here to make the same mistakes again. I won't forget everything you've done for me... and everything I've learned here." Cinder extended a hand to Djarin. "I can... I will be better."

"..."

After a few seconds of silence, Djarin took Cinder's hand. Although she tried to pull him off the ground, Cinder needed Djarin to do the rest. Once he was off the ground, the Mandalorian suddenly pulled Cinder into a hug, which she reciprocated with a relieved sigh.

"Make sure these actions aren't forgotten," said Djarin. "This is the Way."

"This is the Way," Cinder repeated.

Djarin let go of Cinder, which caused the young girl to look up at him. Suddenly, he began to disappear, fade away into apparent nothingness. But just before he did, Djarin had one more thing to say. "You almost found the light, Cinder. You're almost there."

Cinder began to feel proud of herself when she heard that. Of course, she was scared beyond belief when she fought Djarin once again. And that made it rather difficult to control her fear. She felt that she was about to give in at any moment.

But through it all, she held on long enough to witness her success.

Just then, the room began to transform. The vault under Beacon Tower started to disappear as well, but in its place came another room. This room was lined with cabinets and shelves, most of them with dining utensils and supplies. The floor had become square tile while the walls were wooden. Everything was so colorful compared to Beacon's underground room, but it didn't bring comfort to Cinder, who was having a good idea as to where she was. And when she looked down to see herself wearing her old uniform and shock collar, Cinder confirmed her theory; she was back in the Glass Unicorn.

The chatter and laughter outside the kitchen drew Cinder's attention towards the rest of the people. Unfortunately, it distracted her from the threat that was waiting behind her with a remote in her hand.

Cinder suddenly fell to the floor once she felt an electric shock violate her neck. The pain was all too familiar, yet it seemed to hurt worse each time Cinder was forced to experience it. It lasted for about five seconds before the Madame of the hotel revealed herself.

"There you are," the Madame said, her voice monotone. "That was for leaving once again. I suggest you remember your place."

After she stopped panting, Cinder stood up and faced the Madame. Her fears returned once again, she wasn't ready to face this monster. And yet, Cinder found herself staring the Madame down. She did her best to control her fear, to remind herself that the hotel and the guests didn't deserve her hate.

The only things Cinder felt that she had a right to hate were the Madame and the two daughters that had just joined her.

"It's about time you showed up," the brunette said as she threw a bucket and brush to Cinder. "My room's a mess."

Cinder didn't move to pick up the bucket, she instead clenched her fists. The curly blonde easily noticed this as she stepped forward with a smirk. "Weren't you punished the last time you had a temper tantrum?" she asked. "I think you should listen to Mom." The smirk turned into a scowl. "Remember. Your. Place."

Cinder found herself releasing her fists and looking down. "I know," she said softly. "I know my place."

Satisfied with their work, the elite family smiled as they turned around to leave Cinder to her chores.

*CRASH*

Their smiles quickly disappeared as they heard something fall to the floor and felt water crash onto their feet. Turning around simultaneously, the family found Cinder staring at them with the bucket on its side.

The daughters watched as their mother angrily pressed her remote and watched Cinder spasm on the floor. "I thought we talked about this!" she yelled as she let go of the button.

"My place... isn't with you," Cinder said as she recovered from the shock.

"Oh, is that so?" The Madame walked forward and looked down on Cinder. Refusing to kneel, the Madame asked another question. "Then why were you foolish enough to return?"

At first, Cinder merely believed the cave sent her back to the Glass Unicorn to scare her, to control her. It was successful the first time, Cinder's curiosity made her vulnerable and made her give in to her fear. But now, she had a different reason for coming back. And she knew why she was back here.

"Because I'm done being afraid," Cinder said as she stood up. "Memories that've haunted me for years, that've done nothing but hurt me. It's time for me to stop trying to forget them, stop running from them."

The Madame simply scuffed at Cinder's bravery and held the remote again. "I see," she said with a monotone voice. "Perhaps a few minutes with me will burn these delusions away."

Just as she was about to press the button, Cinder smacked her hand and watched the remote fall to the ground. Using her Maiden powers once again, she sent a fireball towards the remote and destroyed it. The daughters let out a small scream as they ran out of the room, leaving Cinder alone with the Madame. "It's also time for us to talk," Cinder said with fire in her hand.

The Madame began to back away as Cinder moved closer with the fire. The defiance made the woman vulnerable and made Cinder feel stronger. She had controlled her fear once again, and successfully instilled it in the abusive woman. But now, more control was needed to pass this trial. So when the fire disappeared, Cinder had one more thing to say to the Madame of the hotel.

"You were right," she began. "All that time... I don't think I've ever realized it before."

"...Realized what?" the Madame asked, her back against the wall.

"Without you... I am nothing." Just as Cinder said that, a tear fell down her eye. But she quickly wiped it away and removed her shock collar, which changed back into a Mythosaur necklace. "But because of you... I'm more than I could have ever imagined."

"You're delusional," the Madame spat.

"No," Cinder disagreed. "You took me with you. You gave me up to Watts. After all that happened, I became a Maiden. I became a Mandalorian. And best of all... I became a daughter." Cinder looked up at the Madame once more. "And I won't throw all of that away by hating you for the rest of my life. And I'm more than done with being scared of you." Cinder moved closer to finish her enemy off. "Instead... I think I'll try learning how to forgive you."

The Madame began to disappear just like Djarin. Cinder knew that she had just completed another part to her final challenge. And once the Madame and the kitchen fully disappeared, Cinder promised to herself that she would keep her word. Through meditation or talking about it with her father, she wouldn't hold on to her anger anymore.

But that would have to wait, as Cinder's surroundings transformed again. But instead of a room like the Beacon vault or the Glass Unicorn, everything looked dark. It seemed that night was all around Cinder, the only light being provided by hundreds of stars as well as the floor beneath her.

Looking down, Cinder saw that she was wearing her normal clothes again. And that she was standing on this giant circle, made of some strong material. She looked around once more, but Cinder wasn't able to make heads-or-tails of where she actually was. The place wasn't familiar to her, it seemed to be an empty void.

"Hello?" Cinder called out, hoping that someone could tell her what was going on.

"..."

Cinder was starting to grow nervous. "Headmaster Kenobi?"

"..."

"...Anybody?!"

"..."

Cinder's nerves were growing stronger. She had no idea where she was or why this was part of her test. And since nothing was standing before her, waiting to challenge her control, Cinder had no idea what to do.

She began to fear for her life, the idea of not knowing where she was began to make Cinder's heart beat faster. Cold sweat dropped down her forehead as she continued to wonder where she was and what all of this meant.

Suddenly, Cinder found herself taking deep breaths. Not that she was hyperventilating, but that she was trying to calm down. She had just spent the last few minutes fighting her father and the Madame, and she would be damned before an empty space became the one thing that caused her to lose control of her fear.

So with a few more deep breaths, Cinder decided to analyze her situation. The first thing she did was cautiously move to the edge of the platform. Looking down, Cinder could see that another platform was below it. The fall would be a long one if she jumped down, but her Maiden powers could help control her landing.

"Looks like there's only one way down," Cinder said as she prepared to jump. "Maybe the exit's down-"

The quick sound of fire from behind her caused Cinder to stop talking and turn around. But when she did this, Cinder saw nothing.

"...Hello?" she asked. She could have sworn it sounded like Djarin's jet pack, that someone was flying in the air. But when she looked up to make sure, there was nothing above her.

And that's when she heard it.

"Where are you going, little one?"

The voice was as clear as day, and it was coming from the other side of the platform. Cinder pulled out her swords to prepare herself. "Who's there?" she asked as she approached the other side of the platform. No one responded, and Cinder saw nothing when she looked down the platform. But there was no denying that someone was here, and that they were toying with her.

Cinder suddenly had the feeling that something was behind her, so she turned around once more, pointing her swords where her enemy should be. But instead of seeing someone, Cinder saw that something new was one the platform, right in the center. Walking closer, Cinder saw that it was a large mirror standing on a frame. As her reflection mimicked her movements, Cinder knew there was no denying that it was just an ordinary mirror. Even when she touched it, the mirror did nothing but copy her.

"...What?" Cinder asked herself. Turning around, she saw that nothing else had appeared. No clues as to why the mirror was here, or what she was supposed to do. "What does this mean?" she called out to the void. As she expected, nobody responded. So Cinder tried to approach this rationally, tried to see if this was anything like she learned at Beacon and Haven.

"You're on your way to becoming a master of the power within you and the elements around you. Now it's time you become a master of yourself."

Cinder suddenly understood. All this time, the challenges she faced at Haven and in the cave, they were meant to pave the way for Cinder to gain self-control. The mirror was supposed to show that it was time for Cinder to look inward and face herself head on. It was time to conquer any flaws she had, and truly be a master of herself. So with a deep breath, Cinder closed her eyes and looked back into the mirror, feeling ready to face whatever would happen next.

But when she opened her eyes, Cinder knew that she wasn't ready to see what had just happened.

Cinder was looking in the mirror once again, but the reflection wasn't that of a child. It was a taller, older woman dressed in black. Her heeled boots, her tank top, the glove on her left arm, they were all black with gold accents. Cinder had to move her eyes up to look at the woman's head, which disturbed her even more. The woman had short black hair with an eyepatch on her left eye. But even though a part of her face was missing, it didn't hide the fact that this woman looked just like Cinder.

Cinder jumped back, as did the reflection. She had no idea what had happened, why her reflection changed so suddenly. As she began to calm down, the Maiden decided to see if this was some kind of trick, some kind of tool the cave was using to scare her once again. So, Cinder slowly approached the mirror again, reaching out her right hand. As she was doing so, the reflection mimicked her movements again, with the gloved hand reaching too. Cinder was very close to the mirror now, it was as if the reflection could grab her if it wanted to.

And that's exactly what it did with its gloved hand.

Cinder screamed in fear as the embrace tightened and pulled her closer to the mirror. Cinder instinctively fought back and pulled herself away from the mirror. The reflection stopped copying Cinder's movements and expressions as a scowl and fire appeared on her face. Cinder noticed this, but was much more concerned about getting out of its grasp. So with one final pull and a push of air with her Maiden powers, Cinder freed herself from the grasp. As she fell to the ground, Cinder realized that the glove was still holding onto her arm. Once she quickly shook it off, Cinder looked back at the mirror to see the reflection simply walk out of the mirror and stare down at her.

"Hello, little girl," the woman said with a smile and a fire in her right eye, relishing the apparent fear that she caused Cinder to have.

Cinder quickly recognized it as the voice from before, and knew that this woman was the one who was toying with her. But that part of the meeting was over now, as the woman lifted her left arm towards Cinder. Before she could do anything, Cinder felt the hand suddenly grab her torso and pull. Cinder screamed and looked down at the hand, which revealed itself to be inhuman. It was black and smoking, and the fingers felt like claws on her torso. And once the pulling stopped, the two made eye-contact with each other.

"Why are you screaming?" the woman asked with a sly smirk. "I haven't even cut you yet."

Cinder found her voice shortly after the woman said this. "What... Who are you?" she asked.

"I?" The woman feigned a surprised face before returning to her sadistic glee. "I am a monument to all your sins." Pulling her closer, the woman whispered in Cinder's ear. "I'm you."

Cinder gasped as she backed away once more. The arm continued to hurt her chest, but she was more worried about this monstrous woman claiming to be her. "No," she whispered. "No, you can't be!"

"I am." The woman used her other hand to stroke her chin. "Or rather... I am what you could be." Just then, the woman's only eye began to burn as she flew in the air. Her legs rested over fire as she moved higher and higher. Letting go of Cinder, the woman spread her arms and gripped onto two black swords that glowed orange. Cinder couldn't grab her blades in time and was forced to engage her Auras to block the strikes. As well as the swords exploding.

Cinder fell back on the platform, where her leg crashed onto the surface. The woman landed with the grace of a ballerina as she knelt to the ground. As Cinder stood up, she could see multiple black weapons form on the ground. Swords, spears, arrows, they were all black and burning. Just then, they all levitated off the ground and flew towards the child.

Cinder yelped as she dove to the ground, staying as low as possible to avoid all the projectiles. Just then, an arrow landed in front of her and grew brighter. Cinder rolled to avoid the explosion and finally stood up.

"How are you feeling?" the woman who claimed to be Cinder's future asked. "You look tired."

"...How?" Cinder asked as she tried to catch her breath. "How are you here? How can you do all this?" Despite her life being in danger, Cinder couldn't help but marvel at the woman's superior use of the power of the Maidens.

And oddly enough, the woman was delighted to answer when she walked closer and formed a fire in her hand. "It took time, of course," she began. "But her Grace proved herself to be an excellent teacher." Looking at her Grimm hand, the woman continued to speak. "And an excellent gift giver."

"Her... 'Grace?' What are you-?" Cinder stopped talking and gasped. She had heard those words before, when she was captured by Gideon. The phrase was one of respect, addressed to one person; Salem.

The woman put a hand on her chest and titled her head. "How could she do this?" she asked, sensing and mocking Cinder's thoughts. "How could she give up on Ozpin and dear old Dad?"

Cinder was never very forgiving of someone who mocked Djarin, which made her want to shut this woman up and make her pay. With her eyes burning, Cinder used her powers to fly forward and attack the woman with her swords. The woman was quick to block the strikes, and even quicker with a response when Cinder asked a question.

"Why'd you have to be like this?!" Cinder screamed. "Why couldn't you just learn your lesson?!"

The woman pushed forward on her swords and spoke again. "Oh, dear girl... I did." Striking again, the woman continued to explain herself. "I learned how weak I was, wishing to control what came naturally to me. I learned how arrogant Ozpin really is, believing his allies will follow him to the end. I learned how victory is never about overpowering your enemy." Just then, the woman's claws dug deep into Cinder's chest. As she screamed, she could feel herself losing her strength. As the black arm glowed orange, the woman said one last thing. "It's about taking away what power they have."

Cinder began to scream internally as she felt her power leave her. She did everything she could to break the woman's grip, but it was ultimately futile. Her connection to the power of the Maidens was vanishing quickly, as well as her very essence. Cinder knew she had failed again, that everything she did had ultimately led to this moment. She had become her own worst enemy, and that enemy was far more dangerous than causing a simple accident like the one at Beacon. Cinder knew there was nothing she could do now.

And yet... maybe this was for the best. Ever since the accident, Cinder felt her status as a Maiden was misplaced. That she shouldn't have the power at all. Maybe it would be best to let it go.

"...Go ahead," Cinder weakly said as a tear fell down her eye. "Take it. I don't deserve it."

The clawed hand let go.

Cinder fell to the ground, feeling her strength return to her. Even though her Aura was broken and there were four puncture wounds in her chest, Cinder began to feel the power of the Maidens return to her. But that wasn't the only thing that was happening. The older Cinder walked over to her with a scowl on her face with no fire.

"What?" the woman sharply asked. "What did you say?"

"...Huh?" Cinder was still tired and weak, but she was more than capable of hearing. While she was confused by the question, she answered it. "I don't care what you do to me or the powers. It's not like they were mine anyway."

The scowl on the older Cinder's face disappeared for a moment, the shock from the response made her vulnerable. "What?" she whispered. Once her anger returned, she grabbed the child once again. "No!" she screamed at the top of her lungs. "No! Are you kidding me?!" She then threw the younger Cinder away from her, watching her land and roll on the platform once again.

Cinder had no idea what made the woman so angry, so surprised by a small statement. According to her experience, what she said was true. The power was always too much for her to handle, even with the new control that Obi-Wan taught her. Taking it away would make sure nobody she cared about got hurt again. And it seemed that this woman wanted her power more than anything.

"How can you be this pathetic?!" the older Cinder screamed again. "Were you not paying attention?!"

"...What?" Cinder asked, unable to understand what she was talking about.

The woman groaned as her black arm grabbed Cinder. She was explaining her actions while having Cinder in her clutches, but the pain she experienced apparently made her oblivious to what she was saying. So she decided to explain herself to the child once again. "There is great power on Remnant, child," she began. "Power that people like Ozpin hoard for themselves, thinking that they'll have it forever. But it just makes me hungrier!" Calming down, the woman brushed her hair out of her only eye. "And I refuse to starve."

"And... Salem?"

"All this time, she's been the key to obtaining this power." A fire formed in her right hand as she continued. "Even now, it continues to burn. Like a hunger. I've always liked it. And now..." The woman clenched her fist. "She will spread across Remnant, leaving the Maidens to me. Where I will take... what is mine." Clenching her fist to make the fire disappear, the woman looked back to Cinder. "I have my plan, child. All you have to do... is say 'yes.'"

Cinder looked back at the woman, her disgust growing by the minute. But now, she grew even more confused. Why would she need help to accomplish this task?

"Or rather... I am what you could be."

For the first time since arriving to this void, Cinder finally knew what was going on. She knew what all of this meant. This woman, she wasn't Cinder. She didn't represent the shadows of things that will be, but rather the shadows of things that maybe. Cinder could become the powerful woman that was standing before her. She could be strong, she could be feared. Perhaps... she could be what the Mandalorians are today.

And there was no telling what would happen if Cinder turned down the offer. She could still be struggling with her powers, she could still hurt people she didn't want to. And Salem could grow stronger by the day while Ozpin was too busy to train her.

Cinder thought about these two points for a while, and the older Maiden was growing impatient. However, she was confident that she made her point. By winning this brutal combat, she showed the child how powerful she was. This power was a true gift from Salem, and the rest of the Maiden powers would be more than enough to satisfy her hunger. And one day, she wouldn't need Salem anymore. She could use her power to bring her enemies to her knees, without needing anyone or anything else. The world would pay for casting her aside, leaving her to suffer.

These ambitions grew when the child looked back to her. After a few seconds, she gave her answer.

"...No."

The woman's smile dropped, as well as her heart. Unable to believe what she just heard, she repeated the phrase back to Cinder. "...No?"

"No," Cinder repeated, holding the black arm. "How can you be so broken inside... to think that all of this is just about power?" Cinder's eyes began to burn, as her disgust and contempt for the woman holding onto her grew. "How can you just throw away everything that was given to us?! How can you be so selfish?!"

A tornado of flame grew around the duo, caused by the older Cinder and her rage at the rejection. She was prepared to hurt the child even more, for daring to defy her will. But instead, she listened as she continued to scream at her.

"If you think that we deserve this power, and the rest of the Maiden powers, you're wrong! We were given them by accident, because we were in the wrong place at the wrong time!" Cinder pointed at the woman and continued her tirade. "I didn't earn power, I earned the right to be called a Mandalorian! I don't want my friends to fear me, I want their love! And if you want the opposite, all you've ever earned is nothing but death!"

The woman screamed at the top of her lungs... and dropped Cinder onto the floor.

As Cinder began to catch her breath, she looked up to see the fallen Maiden panting as well. The fiery tornado began to die down, leaving an empty void once again. Closing her eye, the woman began to disappear. It then turned heel and walked away from Cinder, fully turning into nothingness.

Cinder stood up and looked around. Seeing no signs of an imminent threat, she picked up her swords and put them on her back, just behind her quiver. Just then, the void began to disappear. Cinder prepared herself for another vision, to see what else her trial had in store for her.

But instead of another vision, the void became a stone passageway. And in front of that passageway was a wall with a crack in it. A very familiar crack.

Cinder looked around and became aware of her surroundings. Stalactites and stalagmites were her only company, along with a light at the end of the tunnel. Cinder realized that she was back in the cave once again. She realized that there wasn't going to be another vision.

It was over.

The Maiden had just completed her final challenge.

Cinder began to smile as she made her way back to the cave entrance. She felt proud of everything she overcame in the cave and everything she learned. Her control over her emotions led to new lessons for herself. And she would make sure to live by those lessons for the rest of her life.

The evening light was still at the other side of the cave, and Cinder began to happily run towards it. Djarin was right once again; Cinder had found her light at the end of the tunnel. And it was more than beautiful. And Cinder was more than happy when she ran up to a smiling Obi-Wan.

"Congratulations, Cinder," the Headmaster proudly said. "Well done."

After the duo made their way back to Haven, Obi-Wan got something for the two of them to eat. Cinder explained her visions and what she learned from them, and the Headmaster's pride in the child grew stronger. When he sensed her feelings about the future version of herself, Obi-Wan reminded her that she still beat the vision. And it couldn't hurt her anymore, only if she let it.

So with a thankful heart and a cleared mind, Cinder went back to the room Obi-Wan provided her and went to bed. The Jedi promised he would make the travel arrangements for them in the morning, and left her to get a good night's rest.

And it would have been, if Cinder hadn't experienced a strange dream.

Obi-Wan knocked on Cinder's door and heard nothing. When he softly opened the door to her room, he found Cinder in her bed, tossing and turning. He gently walked over to her, sensing a kind of distress. So he decided to cautiously wake her up by gently shaking her shoulder and calling out her name. "Cinder?"

The child opened her eyes with a start and slightly rose from the bed at the sound of the voice. "Huh? What?" she quickly asked as she became aware of her surroundings. When she turned to Obi-Wan, she jumped back with a start.

"Easy, easy!" Obi-Wan said as he put his hands up. "Breathe, Cinder. It's okay."

Cinder took a few deep breaths and began to calm down. "I'm... I'm sorry, Headmaster," she apologized. "I just..."

"Are you alright?"

"I'm fine... I just had the strangest dream. I think I was..." Cinder decided not to explain anymore, given that today was the day she could go back home. It was supposed to be a happy day, and she didn't want to ruin it by worrying about a dream. "Never mind." Cinder got out of bed and stretched her arms. "Did I sleep long?"

"No, it's only 8:00. The cafeteria is still serving breakfast if you'd like some."

"Umm... no thank you. I think I'll start packing."

With that, the Headmaster left to make the travelling arrangements and for Cinder to pack the items she brought with her. She had one bag along with the quiver of Beskar arrows. Cinder considered the idea of calling Djarin to pick her up, but decided to surprise him instead.

Plus, she had just packed away something important that that she wanted to give to him privately. Something that Obi-Wan let her take from his room of treasures and artifacts, something that both of them felt Djarin would like.

Once she finished packing, Cinder decided to open her window and look at the view of Mistral's mountains. She was looking forward to the trip, to see the rest of Remnant once again.

Also, the time during the trip would give Cinder an opportunity to think about everything she learned. The cave was indeed a challenge for the young Maiden, but she felt like a new person when she walked outside. Her confrontations with the visions of her father and the Madame of the Glass Unicorn gave Cinder a chance to overcome and control her fear. Even though her meditation of the Madame didn't result in letting go of her resentment towards the apathetic woman, Cinder controlled herself in that room. She could have struck out in anger once again, and be right back where she started. But instead, Cinder bravely stood up for herself and won. And that was only part of the reason why Cinder felt proud of herself.

The other part was seeing her... future self. All those things she said, all that power she displayed, Cinder knew that it was possible to be like her, she knew that the choice to be like her wasn't easy. And more importantly... Cinder saw what it would be like to serve Salem. There was no doubt about it, there was power to be found by serving her. The Maiden powers, the Grimm arm capable of almost anything, it was all possible because of Salem. Cinder knew that the vision of herself was tempted to take that power, and she acted on that temptation. Cinder almost led herself into temptation because of Salem, because of the promise of not being alone. And she was tempted to go into the cave for the first time, which had disastrous consequences.

Cinder had to admit, she was tempted to take the vision's offer, that it seemed too good to pass up.

But she didn't.

Instead, Cinder chose to think of all she went through, how hard she worked to get where she was now. And she was able to spit in that vision's face and turn her away. Cinder knew it took more bravery than she could imagine to do something like that, and that was why she was proud that she had strength all along. She had the strength to not fall to darkness, to choose for herself.

Deciding that she had enough air, Cinder moved away from her window and picked up her bag, a small backpack with the symbol of a lamp surrounded by wings. As she walked towards her room's door, she planned to find Headmaster Kenobi and whatever airship they were taking. She even considered the idea of paying Satine Kryze and Korkie a visit, given that her training took up the majority of her time in Mistral.

*BOOM*

An explosion outside caused Cinder to turn back towards the window. Rushing towards it, Cinder looked outside to see a faint smoke rise in the middle of a large forest. Suddenly, the door to Cinder's room slammed open and revealed a concerned Obi-Wan. "Cinder, I need you to stay here!" he said quickly.

"Headmaster?" Cinder was starting to grow worried herself, given that she never saw the man like this before. "What's the matter?"

"A distress call was just made to the academy, there are people in trouble!" Obi-Wan suddenly rushed out of the room, but Cinder was determined to know more. So after she picked up her swords and quiver of arrows, she took off running behind him.

"Headmaster Kenobi, what's going on?! Who sent out the call? How bad is it?"

"Bad enough that you need to stay here!" Obi-Wan said as he continued to run. "There's a team of Beacon students with an injured teacher facing impossible odds!"

Cinder suddenly stopped running. A team of Beacon students? An injured teacher? One thought came to life in Cinder's head when she was given the news. The chances were slim, but it was still a possibility. Somewhere, out near Haven, there were several people fighting for their lives. And maybe, just maybe, one of them had to be...

"Dad!" Cinder yelled as she rushed to the nearest open window.

Obi-Wan suddenly stopped running and turned back to Cinder. "Wait, Cinder!" he called out knowing what she was thinking. "It's too dangerous!"

The cries fell on deaf ears, as Cinder leapt out of the window and towards the explosion. Her Maiden powers allowed her to fly with jets of fire. Cinder had practiced the technique before, but the longest she ever stayed in the air like this was only half a minute. So Cinder travelled as fast as she could towards the smoke. Thankfully, she arrived within walking distance when she had to let herself down. After she made contact with the ground, Cinder took off running with her swords through the forest. She was forced to kill a few Grimm, mainly Beowolves and Ursai, but they did nothing to slow her down. And she only stopped when she arrived at the explosion site.

On the ground were four students, two boys and two girls. One of them had her arm caught in a Beowolf's jaw, so Cinder quickly launched a fireball at its head. The fire missed the student's arm, the only harm was having a set of teeth puncturing her skin. As she fell to the ground screaming, Cinder rushed over and and looked for any other wounds. As she did, Cinder recognized the student; it was Gretchen Rainart, one of the students she met in her father's class.

Gretchen recognized her savior as well. "I... know you..." she said weakly, the pain on her arm intensifying. She was also starting to grow pale, as her bleeding arm was becoming serious.

"I know you too," Cinder said as she spotted a backpack with a symbol of two axes in a wreath, the symbol of Beacon Academy. Quickly going through the bag, Cinder pulled out some gauze and a strange black substance that felt as soft as wool. She had to use gauze a few times at the orphanage in Mistral as well as a few training sessions with Djarin. The gauze would cover the wounds, but Cinder needed something to stop the bleeding and prevent infection. Thinking quickly once again, Cinder pressed her hands on Gretchen's arm and activated her Semblance. The heat she created cauterized the wounds and prevented more bleeding, leaving Cinder to use the gauze.

Gretchen couldn't help but scream as Cinder worked. "Oh, Gods!" she screamed at the top of her lungs. "Gods, please help me!"

"It's okay, it's okay!" Cinder said as she stopped wrapping the gauze. The only pain Gretchen felt now was the burning sensation, but that would pass. Cinder saw the other students weren't moving, and she had a feeling there wasn't a lot she could do. So Cinder focused on Gretchen as she asked a question. "Is my dad here?!" she frantically asked. "Where's the teacher that came with you?!"

Gretchen was starting to pass out, but she was able to answer Cinder's question. "Pr... Professor..." she said as she pointed towards the trees with her good hand. Cinder carefully listened as she heard more growling and snarling, so she left Gretchen and ran towards the sounds. As she got closer, she could see a man waring a trench coat trying to fight three Grimm with a bō staff. The man had black hair and black sheep ears, and he was currently yelling into his Scroll.

"Repeat, this is Professor Bailey of Beacon Academy!" he yelled. "My students and I are in need of any Huntsmen and medical personnel in the area!" One of the Grimm disappeared as he swung his staff, but another broke the staff with its claw and prepared to lunge. "We need-!"

Cinder suddenly rushed forward with her swords and struck both Grimm multiple times. Professor Bailey watched in awe as the Grimm disappeared and the child looked back at him. As he realized that the threat was over, regardless of how old his savior was, Professor Bailey fell to his knees and sighed in relief. "Thank you," he said. "Oh, thank you, thank you, thank you," he audibly whispered as he lowered his head.

"Are you okay?" Cinder asked as she walked over to him.

"Uh... my leg and chest aren't feeling so good." The Huntsman grabbed a large stick off the ground and used it to prop himself up, with Cinder helping. "Hey, you look familiar. Aren't you that Mando's kid?"

"Yep. That's me." Cinder looked around the field, but couldn't see any sign of Djarin. "Is he with you? Is he okay?"

"No, it's just me and my-" The Professor's eyes widened as he realized the students he travelled with were hurt as well. "My students!" he yelled as he tried to run into the woods. However, he simply fell to the ground again.

"Don't worry," Cinder said as she helped him stand again. "Help's on the way." She began to calm down herself, knowing that Djarin was safe. With this in mind, Cinder had another question that was related more to curiosity than worry. "Why are you all the way out in Mistral?"

"Training mission," the Professor answered. He was still catching his breath, so he spoke very slowly. "This should have been... a standard Search and Destroy. But it all happened... so fast."

Cinder looked up. "What? The Grimm?"

"No. There was... something else. Attacked us from all sides. All black."

Cinder slightly tilted her head. "That sounds like a Grimm to me."

"That's what I thought too. But we were... all trained to fight all kinds of Grimm. Must have... been something... or somebody else."

"I didn't see anyone else other than your students. Actually, do you think it was something like that wool I found in your bag?"

"Wool?" The Professor's confusion quickly disappeared. "Oh, you found our samples." He had caught all his breath and fully turned to Cinder. "Yeah, that's just something Professor Peach asked me to bring back. We got three bags full before we were attacked. Right, one for Ozpin, one for Professor Peach, and one for-"

A red blade suddenly emerged from Professor Bailey's chest and he let out a scream of agony. Cinder covered her mouth as her jaw dropped and she let out a gasp. The Professor, however, couldn't say anything. Blood began to pour out of his mouth as the blade burned a hole in his chest. As the blade quickly retracted, Professor Bailey took a few steps forward. He then fell to the ground, dead as a doornail.

After Cinder stared at the body for a few more seconds, she looked up to where he once stood. And in his place was a dark figure. His entire body was covered in a black cloak. The only things that stood out were the red sword he was holding in his left hand and the white mask on his face. From a story Obi-Wan told on her second day at Haven, Cinder was able to easily identify the figure.

"A Sith?" Cinder thought to herself. "Here?" She knew the danger this man posed, which gave her the idea that she needed to leave the forest now. But when she tried to run, a cold hand grabbed her throat and pulled her off the ground. The figure stared into Cinder's eyes and spoke in a language she couldn't understand.

"Jii... vi ke'pare." (Now... we wait.)

Obi-Wan found himself in the middle of the tall trees, having taken an airship to a clearing in the forest. He had never liked flying, but this was a special circumstance. He could sense that the students were nearby and were in trouble, so the first thing the Headmaster did was pull out his Scroll and try to respond to the distress call.

"This is Headmaster Obi-Wan Kenobi of Haven, attempting to contact any nearby Huntsmen," he said.

"..."

The signal on his Scroll was strong enough to reach anybody who was listening. So the silence wasn't caused by a broken Scroll, but that apparently nobody could respond.

"Can anyone hear me?" Obi-Wan asked.

"..."

Seeing this as a sign that now was the time for action, Obi-Wan followed his senses to find the students, as well as Cinder. He could sense that she was nearby too, but her presence seemed... different.

Just then, Obi-Wan found himself weak. He was suffering from a sharp headache and he felt out of breath. Sitting down on a rock, Obi-Wan concentrated on his state of nature. He knew it wasn't life threatening, but it was still very serious. For the Headmaster had just felt a great disturbance in the Force. It was as if all the happiness and joy in the world had suddenly vanished. But in its place, a new presence came.

A dark presence.

A cold presence.

But above all else... a very hungry presence.

A sharp crackle caused Obi-Wan to turn around and activate his lightsaber. Just as the blue blade appeared, multiple jolts of electricity made contact with it. The power of the lightning caused Obi-Wan to back up while keeping the majority of his applied pressure on his weapon. After ten seconds of backing up and defending himself, the forest before him exploded. Trees fell as dirt spread across the clearing like wildfire. The Jedi was forced to shield his face to protect himself, but just for a moment.

As soon as he lowered his arm, he came into contact with a dark figure walking towards him, carrying an unconscious child. Obi-Wan recognized the child as Cinder and the figure as someone from his past. The two adults had only met each other once in their lives, but they still knew each other like they met only yesterday. Obi-Wan was the first to address his enemy when he lifted his blade. "Nihilus," he said.

"Kenobi," the Sith replied. "Tu kvapis." (You breathe.)

"Yes." Obi-Wan clearly understood the Sith, since travelling across Remnant with his master led to him learning a thing or two. "I learned you were still alive as well... but I didn't expect to see you here." Obi-Wan suddenly knew why the Sith was here. "But you knew I was here... didn't you?"

"Nu zenoti wo Jidai meo stai." (I knew one Jedi was here.)

Before Obi-Wan said anything else, he concentrated on the Sith's presence. It was different from the last time the two had met, it was as if Nihilus was... missing something.

No.

Not missing.

Craving.

There was something Nihilus wanted here, and he was willing to do whatever it took to obtain it. And Obi-Wan had a good idea as to what it was. "Is this what you've become, Nihilus?" he asked. "A mere shell of yourself that can't live without the Force?" He began to chuckle and grin. "How the mighty have fallen."

"Gana!" Nihilus screamed. (Enough!)

Obi-Wan didn't let up. "And now you want to steal what's mine? It would be wise for you to not waste anymore of your energy, Nihilus. You can crawl back to Salem, go back to the darkness where you belong."

"Nu zinot kia atiduo kia ji, xaz," said Nihilus. "Kad nenx negu nu zudyti visas Jidai kairys. Tikazi Nu atiduo pergalenas, Nu valia zinot nuyak kerstas ant tave Orto!" (I have to return to her, yes. But not before I kill every Jedi left. When I return victorious, I will have my revenge on the Witch!)

Obi-Wan was surprised to hear all of this, but he had a good idea as to why Nihilus told him of this master plan. As the Sith held up Cinder, Obi-Wan knew Nihilus expected him to surrender. He expected him to lay his lightsaber on the ground and kneel. And once Nihilus drained him of both Aura and Force energy, Obi-Wan would be dead.

That's when Obi-Wan's plan came very quickly.

"You want to break free, and will do whatever it takes," he said slowly. "Hurt anyone it takes."

Nihilus smiled under his mask. "Stotikas su j'us," he said. "Dabar, ar j'us geida kia ziur-" (Starting with you. Now, if you wish to see-)

"I want to break free and do whatever it takes. Hurt anyone it takes."

The voice caused the Sith to look down at his hand in confusion. He saw a now conscious Cinder, whose eyes had begun to burn. She immediately broke one of her arms free from his grasp and sent a wave of fire towards Nihilus. He was forced to back away and release Cinder.

Free at last, Cinder began to question what had just happened. When she began to wake up, she felt a voice telling her what to do. The voice was strong and Cinder found herself in agreement, it was as if her mind was being influenced by something. But Obi-Wan's voice caused her to forget about the experience.

"Cinder, run!" he said as he used to Force to push her out of the way. Confident that she would obey now that she was out of sight, Obi-Wan activated his lightsaber and prepared to defend himself against the power hungry Sith.

Nihilus charged at Obi-Wan, pouring all of his Aura into his blade. Red clashed with blue and the combatants pushed on their own blades. Nihilus was pushed away and landed a few feet in front of Obi-Wan, who held his lightsaber above his head, and pointed its end at the Sith as well as two fingers.

Nihilus recognized the fighting style Obi-Wan took, a mere act of defense rather than offense. Predictable and weak, Nihilus believed this form to be. He would break it in an instant, along with the Jedi's spirit.

Holding his lightsaber in one hand, Nihilus swung at Obi-Wan, and he easily blocked. Two more strikes followed and Obi-Wan defended himself easily. Long ago, he chose to take on this form of lightsaber fighting because he knew how Sith think and fight. So he knew that Nihilus would have no intention of holding back in his strikes. And his wound from long ago would only deprive him of strength faster.

That is, if Cinder didn't try to help.

The Maiden suddenly sprung out of the woods, launching fire towards the Sith. As she expected him to burn, Cinder moved towards Obi-Wan with her swords. However, Obi-Wan was less than happy about the help he was receiving.

"Cinder, I told you to run!" the Headmaster reminded her.

"I can't let you fight him alone!" she said. "I can use my powers to-!"

"Cinder, look!" Obi-Wan pointed towards the Sith, who was forming a glowing orange light around him. The light was swallowing the fire whole, and brining it to Nihilus' chest. Cinder didn't understand what was happening, but she knew that the fire she made did nothing to hurt the Sith.

"What is this?" she asked. "His Semblance?"

"Far worse," Obi-Wan answered as he turned back to Cinder. "Nihilus is a wound in the Force, he needs energy to live. Aura, Force energy, even the power of the Maidens makes him stronger! Which is why you need to-!" Obi-Wan stopped talking as a sharp pain in his chest caused him to lose strength. Looking towards his enemy, the Jedi saw that Nihilus had turned his hunger towards him, and he was feeding well.

"No!" Cinder screamed as she rushed towards Nihilus with her eyes burning. The Sith merely lifted his hand and reached out with the Force. Cinder dropped her swords and grabbed her neck, desperately trying to break the invisible hold Nihilus had on her. Instead of killing her where she stood, the Sith threw her against a tree.

Nihilus turned back to Obi-Wan, who weakly fell to the ground. Feeling that he had enough strength to kill his next target, Nihilus let the Jedi go and cast his eyes on Cinder. "Tave Midwan iv Seniai," he said. "Tave Jidai gal saut. M'tye valia auktoi nun kam Nu adata." (The Power of Old. The Jedi can wait. She will give me what I need.)

Cinder looked up to see that Nihilus was approaching her. As she realized that she was about to be his next meal, Cinder thought back on Count Dooku's lesson. Nihilus had what he described; fear, surprise, and intimidation were all on his side, not hers. And if that was the case, Cinder needed to run.

"Cinder, catch!"

The child looked behind to see Obi-Wan throw his lightsaber, all of his Aura poured into the weapon. Cinder quickly dove and caught it, using the blue blade to block the red one. In that moment, Cinder knew running away would have to wait. Obi-Wan needed her help.

It wasn't like her Beskar blades, but Cinder was able to wield the lightsaber well. She struck when she could and blocked whenever she had to, as did Nihilus. Unfortunately, his speed and reflexes left Nihilus with the advantage. Cinder knew she would have to turn the tide if she was to survive, but she didn't know how. Her Maiden powers would only make the Sith stronger and he was strong enough to kill Cinder once he had the right opening.

For the first time since leaving the cave... Cinder felt helpless. There was nothing her powers could do to help her win this fight.

"That's right. So you need to think outside the box. Think about what you have in front of you. Use it if you can."

Cinder smiled for the first time since entering the forest. She promised to never forget any of the Mandalorian's lessons to her. And now she knew that she could do the same thing here by falling to the ground and holding the lightsaber with one hand.

Nihilus struck down in an instant, pushing all of his strength on his blade. As it came dangerously close to Cinder's face, the Sith spoke once more. "J'us zinot nevizkut, berniuk. Tu aras nie partija nuo tave jena'tes tkurzi tave irus' mrias. (You have failed, child. You are no match for the darkness where the light dies.)

Cinder still didn't know what Nihilus was saying, but she had a good feeling he was taunting her. And she knew exactly what to say. "At least... I'm not... on fire."

At that moment, Nihilus began to smell something burning. Looking past his blade, he could see that a fire was spreading across his robes, right where Cinder had her right hand. The Sith immediately backed away and beat his robe with his hand, trying to put out the fire. This left an opening for Cinder to use one of her most recent lessons. As she felt her anger boil to the surface, Cinder let out a scream and swung the lightsaber at Nihilus. He immediately raised his blade to block the strike.

However, Cinder's aim wasn't for the kill, but rather the exposed metal of the lightsaber.

Once she struck the metal, the blue blade cut through Nihilus' lightsaber, resulting in an explosion that knocked both opponents backwards. Cinder hit the ground a few times before her Aura broke and Nihilus landed on the ground with ease. But once he realized that his weapon and Aura were no longer with him, the Sith let out a scream and used the Force to grab Cinder once again. Picking up a large rock, Nihilus rushed towards Cinder at unnatural speed and prepared to break her skull.

That was when a Beskar arrow hit him in the chest, causing him to release both the rock and the Maiden.

Looking past the child, Nihilus saw Obi-Wan holding Cinder's Beskar swords and the quiver Cinder had. After he learned that the swords could be made into a bow, Obi-Wan used them to his advantage and fired more arrows at Nihilus. Each strike made the vulnerable Sith weaker, his connection to the Force began to leave him as well.

"Nie... zinot kia... zudyti ji..." (No... must... kill her.)

But all Nihilus could do now was fall to the ground... and die.

After taking a few more breaths, Obi-Wan slowly stood up and looked down at Cinder's bow. "So uncivilized," he said as he threw them on the ground. Them he rushed over to Cinder, who was still kneeling on the ground. "Cinder, are you okay?" he worriedly asked.

"I'm... I'm okay," she responded. "Just... need a second." Cinder felt herself come off the ground by Obi-Wan gently taking her arm. As she continued to catch her breath, the two walked over to see another surprise; Gretchen Rainart was leaning against a tree, having left her friends to find help.

Before anyone could do or say anything, the soft sound of lightning filled the air and caused them to look back at what remained of Nihilus. Red smoke and red lightning surrounded his corpse, and the body under the black cloak disappeared. All that was left of the Sith was a broken lightsaber, his cloak, and his intimidating mask.

"What... was that?" the frightened student asked.

Obi-Wan looked back to Gretchen and sighed. "Something... beyond our help," he sadly said. Despite the fact that Nihilus was a Sith and all his actions did nothing but spread death and despair... Obi-Wan couldn't help but take pity on him. Nobody deserved to become such a wound in the Force, be cursed to a fate of being starved for power to keep them alive. But now wasn't the time to wonder what could have become of Nihilus, had he taken a different path. Now was the time for healing.

So Cinder led Obi-Wan back to the rest of the injured students, helping Gretchen walk. While they did, nobody noticed a small Nevermore pick up Nihilus' mask with its talons and fly away.

A Mistralian airship was able to retrieve the students along with Cinder and Obi-Wan. Given that one student suffered a major skull fracture and the only doctor who could save him was in Vale, the crew had little choice but to fly all the way to the Vale hospital.

Cinder was sitting in the hospital's waiting room, hoping to hear news about the team of students. While she was tapping her foot, eager to hear anything that sounded like progress, Obi-Wan sat silently in a chair next to her. Unlike Cinder, he had every confidence that the team would pull through.

As he was about to tell her not to worry, Obi-Wan and Cinder heard two sets of footsteps come inside. One set was fast, wasting no time to find what they were looking for. The other was walking normally, but at a pace fast enough to keep up with the first set. The footsteps ran past a wall to reveal Glynda Goodwitch and Professor Ozpin. As soon as he sensed the two teachers, Obi-Wan stood up and walked towards them. "Ozpin! Glynda!"

The teachers looked back to Obi-Wan and rushed over to him. "Obi-Wan," Glynda addressed the Headmaster. "How long have you been here?"

"About twenty minutes," the Jedi answered. "We still haven't heard anything yet."

"We?"

Obi-Wan stepped aside to reveal a surprised Cinder, who awkwardly smiled and waved at the teachers. Cinder wasn't expecting to see them again for quite some time, which was what made her nervous in the first place. Nevertheless, the child addressed the two professors. "...Hello," she said.

"Cinder..."

Glynda couldn't believe that the child was here, it felt like a long time since she last saw her. The surprise made her forget about the injured students a few rooms away.

Ozpin kneeled down to the Maiden's level with a smile. "It is so good to see you again," he said honestly.

Cinder began to smile herself. "It's good to see you too, Headmaster," she said.

Obi-Wan found himself placing a hand on Cinder's shoulder. "Then you'll be happy to know that you'll be seeing each other much more often," he said. "It's become clear to me that Cinder is ready to go back to Beacon."

Ozpin and Glynda found themselves asking the exact same question. "Really?"

"Yes." Obi-Wan kneeled down to Cinder. "You did very well in that cave, and even better against the one we faced. You have control of your fear, your anger. And just as Count Dooku wanted, you were able to release it in a way that protected the innocent. With Ozpin, you'll be well on your way to becoming a true Maiden."

Cinder smiled throughout the entire speech. She felt more proud of herself than she did in weeks. And now, more than ever, she was finally ready to go home. And more importantly, she was ready to go back to her father. "Thank you, Headmaster," she said to Obi-Wan. Turning back to Ozpin, Cinder asked a question. "Is... he here?"

"No, your father isn't with us," Ozpin answered, turning to Glynda. "Glynda, would you mind calling Mr. Djarin? I'll let you know if we hear anything."

"Of course, Professor." Glynda left the waiting room to make the call. Just as she left, a doctor approached Obi-Wan.

"Are you Headmaster Kenobi?" he asked.

"Yes," Obi-Wan quickly replied. "How are the students?"

"The last student just came out of surgery, had to put a broken arm back into place. The jaws of a Grimm really pack a punch."

"And the others?" Ozpin asked.

"They're resting in one of the rooms. They'll be off their feet for a little while, but they'll be alright."

Everyone sighed in relief at the good news. The doctor was pleased to see they were taking the news well. "Professor Ozpin, I need to talk to you about a few other things when you're ready," the doctor said.

"I'll be just a moment," he said. The doctor left everyone and Ozpin turned to Obi-Wan. "Thank you, Obi-Wan," Ozpin said to his old friend. "I think I'll handle everything here."

"In that case, I bid you goodbye." After the Headmasters shook hands, Obi-Wan looked down to Cinder with a smile. "You were very brave, Cinder," he said. "You're more than ready to face any challenge that comes your way."

"Thank you, Headmaster," Cinder said with a slightly bowed head. "For everything."

"If you ever need anything, don't hesitate to reach out to me."

Glynda came back inside. "Did you hear anything?" she asked.

"They'll be alright," said Ozpin. "They're very lucky to be alive."

"I can imagine." Glynda looked down to Cinder. "And your father will be here very soon."

Cinder gasped, but she was still ready to see her father. She was just surprised that their reunion would be very soon. "Thank you, Professor," she said with a smile. Cinder turned back to Ozpin. "How has he been? Is he okay?"

"Mr. Djarin has been doing well," Ozpin replied, figuring out that Cinder was talking about the Mandalorian's injury. "The only kind of pain he's been feeling is that he misses you very-"

"OZPIN!"

Everyone turned back to the doors, which swung open and revealed a young man as tall as Glynda, but slightly shorter than Ozpin and Obi-Wan. The man was wearing a green hoodie with the sleeves rolled up and a black T-shirt, revealing big biceps that had multiple deep scars. He had a small beard growing under his chin, and on his face was the pure embodiment of rage.

"Oh, dear," Ozpin whispered, sensing the incoming danger.

Glynda sensed it as well, and took action by stepping in front of the young man and put her hands in front of him. "Hazel, you can't be-!"

"Get out of my way!" he screamed as he grabbed Glynda's arms and threw her across the room. Glynda tripped on the chairs and fell to the ground. Cinder ran over to her to make sure she was okay while looking back at the young man and Ozpin. She began to fear for everyone's safety, which made her want to act soon.

"Hazel, your sister is fine," Ozpin began, trying to calm the young man down. "The doctor said-"

"Shut up!" Hazel said as he grabbed Ozpin with his abnormally large arms. Pushing him against a wall, Hazel applied pressure and stared into the Headmaster's eyes. "If she dies, I swear to Gods you'll join her!"

Cinder and Obi-Wan decided that now was the time to show this violent man the way out. "Young man, I'd suggest you let go of him," Obi-Wan said as he put an arm in front of Cinder, who was prepared to attack,

"Get away from me," Hazel spat at the Headmaster. "I don't have any quarrel with you."

Obi-Wan lifted his hand and slightly moved it. "And you don't want to have any quarrel with Ozpin either."

The young man suddenly released Ozpin and held his head. "I... don't want to have any quarrel with Ozpin either," he repeated.

Obi-Wan repeated the gesture and said one other thing. "You want to leave and return once you've calmed down."

"I... want to leave... and return once I've calmed down." Hazel turned around and made his way towards the doors, leaving everyone alone. As he left, everyone turned back to Obi-Wan, who held a hand to Ozpin.

"Thank you," Ozpin said as he accepted the help to come off the ground. "I see you've been improving with that."

"I had an excellent teacher," said Obi-Wan. With that, he nodded at Cinder and left to see if the young man was doing better.

Glynda walked over to Ozpin while rubbing her head. "One of these days, that boy is going to do more than hurt someone."

Cinder looked up at Ozpin. "Who was he?" she asked, still getting over the impression the man had when he came in. "He didn't seem... human."

Ozpin sighed as he picked up his cane. "That was Hazel Rainart, a very... passionate individual. He's Gretchen's twin brother."

"Twin brother?" Cinder turned back to where Hazel left, picturing his appearance in her head. She was willing to believe that the two were siblings, but twins? The man had arms and muscles that could rival the deadliest boxer, and his height wasn't very normal for someone of his apparent age. Comparing this to how Gretchen was of slightly below average height for a teenager and wasn't very strong, Cinder had trouble believing the two of them were twins.

"Yes, I couldn't believe it either," said Ozpin. "But I later found out his use of his Semblance has resulted in some... side effects on his body."

Cinder wasn't sure what Semblance could alter a human body, but that was the last thing on her mind. "Why did he try to kill you?" she asked.

"I was the one who convinced Hazel to let Gretchen come to Beacon," Ozpin explained. "Hazel was never a student or Huntsman, and he believed Gretchen had no business in a line of work. But after I spoke with him and she begged him to let her go, he eventually agreed. But I imagine it will be difficult to convince him to let her stay."

"Who cares about that?" Glynda asked. "His actions are going to get someone killed!" Glynda pulled out her Scroll once more. "I'm pressing charges against him."

"Let it go, Glynda."

Glynda and Cinder looked back at Ozpin in shock. How could he be willing to let this go?

"Feel free to file a restraining order if you're worried about your safety," Ozpin advised his second in command. "But I don't think having him arrested is the best course of action."

Glynda put away her Scroll, deciding that she would listen to Ozpin once more. "I'll do that in the morning," she said. "Right now, I need an icepack." She left the room to find a nurse to help her, leaving Cinder alone with Ozpin.

"Professor Ozpin, are you sure about this?" Cinder asked. "Hazel was about to really hurt you."

"Once he sees that Gretchen is fine, I believe he'll put such animosity aside," Ozpin declared. He finally decided to join the doctor in the next room, but not before saying one last thing. "Besides, Hazel only does such things for who he considers family. Not very different from someone else we both know."

"..."

Cinder was still sitting in the hospital room, where Gretchen and her team were resting. As she was sitting and thinking about the day's events, Cinder found herself to be troubled. She was still thinking about the figure she fought in the woods along with the Grimm, how a Sith could have found his way so close to Mistral. Cinder wanted answers about the Sith as much as Obi-Wan did, but she had something else on her mind as well; going home.

Fortunately, Cinder found an opportunity to vent about these thoughts when she heard a door open. The doctor said he was going to give the team of students some rest, so Cinder knew it wasn't him. She had a good idea as to who was walking behind her. "They're still resting, Ozpin," she said quietly. "I know, I should be resting too. I just... have a lot on my mind."

Cinder felt a hand rest on her shoulder. Taking this as a sign that Ozpin was willing to listen, Cinder began to vent even more. "We both heard Obi-Wan, he said that I'm ready to come home. I'm not saying he's wrong, I feel like I really changed. Thanks to your idea and his lessons, I don't feel as scared anymore. Of Salem, of being the Fall Maiden, or anything right now. But... I don't know what I'm going to say to him, when we get back to Beacon."

"..."

"I was gone for a week and a half. That's more time than I could imagine, being without him. I don't know how he'll feel, when we see each other again." Cinder hugged herself as she continued to talk. "I mean, I want to tell him that I love him, that he won't need to worry about me accidentally hurting him... or anyone again. But I need to show him that too. And I will."

"..."

"Do you think that... he'll be ready to see me again?" she asked. "Do you think he'll want me to come back home?"

The hand didn't leave her side, but it patted her shoulder a few times. Just as it stopped, a voice answered her question, in a way Cinder definitely wasn't expecting.

"Ni kar'tayl gar darasuum, Cinder." (I love you, Cinder.)

Cinder gasped as she quickly turned around, seeing a familiar suit of Mandalorian armor with the helmet staring down at her. As soon as he took his hand off her shoulder, Cinder moved her chair and jumped into Djarin's open arms. After he turned around with Cinder in the air, Djarin lowered and continued to hug Cinder, saying one other thing.

"I missed you too."

Cinder didn't leave Djarin's side for a second after their reunion. They were inseparable for the entire remainder of the trip from the hospital. After Djarin introduced Cinder to Qrow, who immediately took a liking to the new Maiden, Cinder told Djarin about the incident with Hazel Rainart. Djarin said he would keep an eye on him, as well as work more with Gretchen and her team. They would need to recover, so Djarin would wait until they were ready.

But for now, the Mandalorian wanted nothing more but to spend time reconnecting with his daughter. And the feeling was entirely mutual for Cinder.

The Maiden suddenly found herself back in her old room, courtesy of Djarin's Semblance. Once she looked around and familiarized herself, Cinder took a deep breath and happily let it out. "Ah, it's good to be home," she said.

"I know," said Djarin, who sat down at the table. "I haven't spent a lot of time here in the past few days."

"Why not?"

"It's... a long story. But I can tell you that I found another Mandalorian tribe, I've been working with them for a little while."

"Really? Wow, sounds like you did a lot while I was gone."

"Not too much. But I'd have to think that saving four students sounds like more than you've ever done."

"I guess you're right. That's a long story too."

"We can talk more about it later." Djarin stood up and walked to Cinder. "But it sounds like you had a busy morning. Lunch will be ready soon, you feel like eating at the academy?"

"Sure! But I have one thing to do first." Cinder began to walk back towards her bed and put her belongings back on it. Suddenly, she turned back to her father with a small handkerchief in her hands. Quickly moving the handkerchief, Cinder presented Djarin with a metal amulet, covering a beautiful diamond. "This amulet was crafted by the Mandalorians on Mandalore. It's been said that the Beskar was found in a mine at the very center of the island, so it was given the name-"

"Te Kar'ta be Manda'yaim," Djarin realized, having read a similar discovery when he was a Foundling. "The Heart of Mandalore."

Cinder nodded with a smile. "I got it with Obi-Wan during my training, in a room of art he has at Haven." Cinder held out her hands further. "I've carried it all this way for you."

Djarin slowly took the amulet and looked it over. "It's been a long time since someone gave me a gift," he said. "Thank you, Cinder." Putting the amulet on his neck, Djarin pulled Cinder into another hug, one she happily returned. "Welcome home."

Author's notes: hey everyone, hope you're doing good. You all ready for tonight's Ahsoka episode? Hope it's good!

And I hope you enjoyed this chapter, please let me know what your thoughts are.

TheCourtofTalons · Sep 24, 2023

Chapter 30: The Story

It was a quiet, peaceful night at Beacon. Everyone had such a long day and were ready to finally relax. Djarin had been busy teaching techniques in combat as well as modifying Dust rounds for students to use on their own. Cinder was able to show Ozpin how much she learned from Obi-Wan with her Maiden training. She decided to make up for lost time by practicing for the majority of the day, leaving both the Maiden and the Headmaster tired.

So while Ozpin and Glynda were continuing their work at Beacon, Djarin and Cinder decided to have some father-daughter bonding over a game of checkers.

"Remember that this is a strategy game," said Djarin, who was controlling the black pieces. "It can teach you a lot about choosing the right time to attack and knowing when you need to defend yourself."

"Okay, Dad," Cinder said with a smile. "So, I'm going to move-"

"Don't tell me. Your opponent can never know your moves."

"Right."

The game lasted about ten minutes. Djarin won, given that Cinder chose to attack rather than defend herself. But Djarin was willing to play again, which led to Cinder winning. To break the tie, Cinder and Djarin decided to play best two out of three. But this time, they began to have a conversation during their game.

"Ozpin told me that your session today was the best one yet," said Djarin, who moved a black piece.

"And he told me that the students think you're a great teacher," Cinder said as she took a few seconds to move one black piece. "I guess we're both improving here."

"We are. You should be proud of yourself, with all your training." Djarin jumped over two of Cinder's red pieces. "I knew you could do it."

Cinder smiled once again. "Thank you, Dad. To be honest, I'm actually a little more relieved than proud. I'm just glad I was able to change at Haven. But there is one thing I'm proud of."

"What's that?"

"This." Cinder took one of her pieces and jumped over four of Djarin's pieces, landing at the end of the board. "King me."

Djarin chuckled as he put one of Cinder's lost pieces on her new king. "I guess Obi-Wan left me to deal with your ego."

"Come on, I definitely robbed you!" Cinder began to laugh. "And there's no way you can beat that move."

"...No, but I can even the score." Djarin moved another piece, one that Cinder couldn't jump over. "King me."

Cinder did as she was told and prepared to make her move. "Hmmm, you weren't wrong. But this just makes the game more interesting."

"Be careful with opponents that you're evenly matched with. The duel will be even harder."

"You're right." Cinder moved one piece so that Djarin couldn't make his black king jump over a red one. "But that doesn't mean it's impossible. I just have to find a way."

"You were always a fast learner." Djarin stopped moving his pieces. "Maybe you could-"

The lights suddenly went out, causing Cinder and Djarin to look at the lamps in the room.

"What the-?" Cinder asked in confusion.

"What's going on?" Djarin asked.

"Aw, come on!"

The voice outside their door caused Cinder and Djarin to open it and see Qrow outside a fuse box. "Qrow, are you okay?" Djarin asked.

"Yeah, but the breaker isn't," Qrow replied. "I thought I was grounding one of the wires, but I just shorted it out!" Sighing, he turned back to the Mandalorian and his daughter. "Sorry, kid. Looks like bedtime came a little early tonight."

"Aw, but I'm not tired!" Cinder said to her father. "Dad, I don't want to go to bed yet!"

Djarin looked at the screen on his gauntlet to see what time it was. "It's getting pretty late," he said. "We're gonna have to call it a night soon."

"Don't worry, kid." Qrow pulled out a flask and took a sip. "I'm sure Mando here can... I don't know, read you a story?"

Cinder looked up to Djarin with a smile. "Really? Can you?" It had been a while since Djarin read to her, and she was excited at the idea.

"Actually, I was just about to tell you an idea I had." Djarin led Cinder back to the room and sat down at the table. "Maybe you could tell me a story tonight. I was hoping you could tell me about your time with Obi-Wan."

"Hey, there's an idea!" Qrow said as he invited himself into the room. "You could tell us all the new ways you learned to kick butt!"

Cinder wasn't expecting the tables to turn like this, to tell Djarin a story for once. But she didn't turn down the offer. "Well... I wouldn't know where to start," she said as she put a hand to her chin. "Actually... Obi-Wan told me a story I think you'd want to hear. It reminded me of seeing Mandalore for the first time, and what you told me about it."

Djarin remembered that day, how he said that the end of Mandalore wasn't the end of the Mandalorians. Intrigued, he decided to listen to the story. "Well, let's hear it."

"It's a story about one of the Jedi, a man named Anakin Skywalker. And it's a story... about a girl."

"A girl?" Qrow asked. "Did she kick butt?"

"Qrow, please."

Everyone turned around. Qrow turned on his Scroll's light to see Professor Ozpin standing in the doorway. "I believe this sounds like a very interesting story," he said.

"You're here about the fuse, aren't ya?" Qrow asked.

"I appreciate you trying, Qrow. But I had Glynda call a proper technician who should be here soon." Ozpin turned to Djarin. "May I come in?" Djarin nodded and Ozpin sat down at the table in the center of the room. "Please, Cinder. Continue."

"Okay." The light moved back to Cinder, who sat on her bed and started to tell her story. "Now, our story begins in Atlas, before I was even born. Two young men had come to resolve a threat against the lives of the Atlesian Council..."

A long time ago, in a land far, far away...

A large red airship was flying through the sky, above the ice and snow. It had just arrived at a large piece of land floating in the sky, covered with beautiful buildings and surrounded by smaller airships. Many airships much larger than the red one were floating over the city, and three smaller ones had just surrounded the red one.

The pilots of the ship noticed the airships were indeed military, and they were starting to grow nervous. But the two hooded men behind them seemed calm.

"Captain," one of them asked.

The pilot on the left turned back to her passenger. "Yes, sir?"

"Tell them we wish to land at once."

"Yes, sir." The pilot turned to her computer screen and flipped a switch. "With all due respect to the Atlesian Military, the delegates of each Council wish to land immediately."

The radio was silent for a few minutes before a response came. "Permission granted. As you know, the blockade of Atlas is perfectly legal. Yet the Admiral will be happy to receive the Ambassadors."

The military airships continued to fly with the red airship all the way to the docking bay that was closest to Atlas Academy. Satisfied with their arrival, the two hooded men left the pilots to step onto Atlesian ground. Once they stepped off the ship, the military airships landed as well and one armored soldier walked towards them while talking on her radio.

"This is TC-14 confirming arrival of the Ambassadors," she said. "Requesting permission to escort them inside."

"Copy that, TC-14. You're clear to proceed."

The soldier lowered her hand off her earpiece and gestured towards the Academy. "This way, please." The two hooded men walked with her towards the illustrious building while looking at the sky. Normally, the skies of Atlas would be clear of any obstructions, but the multiple large airships were blocking that view. And they weren't just sitting in the sky, they were organized. It was almost as if they were expecting an attack.

Then again, closing the borders to an entire Kingdom would have a lot of security.

Once they all walked inside and took an elevator, the soldier led the two hooded men to a room that only consisted of a table long enough for ten people to sit. "I hope you'll be comfortable here. The Admiral will be with you shortly." When she left, the two men finally removed their hoods, revealing an older man with a short beard and long brown hair accompanied by a younger man with brown hair and a small braid.

"I have a bad feeling about this," the younger Jedi said.

"I don't sense any danger," the older Jedi pointed out as he looked out a window to see nothing but the empty sky.

"It's not about the mission, Master, it's something... elsewhere. Elusive."

"Don't center on your anxiety, Obi-Wan. Keep your concentration here and now where it belongs."

"But Master Yoda says I should be mindful of the future..."

"But not at the expense of the moment. Be mindful of the living Force, my young Padawan."

The young Obi-Wan Kenobi finally granted the older Jedi's request. "Yes, Master. How do you think the Kingdom will deal with the rest of the world's demands?"

"These type of people cling to power wherever they can find it. Still... I feel the negotiations will be short."

The door suddenly opened to reveal a uniformed man with a blonde goatee. His uniform stood out from the uniforms of the soldiers behind him, given that it was a suit with medals on the right side of the chest. "Gentlemen, thank you for coming," he said as the door closed behind him. "You've gone to all the other Kingdoms before Atlas, correct?"

"We've come on their behalf, yes," the older robed man said with an extended hand. "I don't believe we've had the pleasure, Mr..."

"Admiral Sterling Silver," the man said as he shook hands. "And you must be... Obi-Wan Kenobi?"

"That would be me," the younger man replied as he walked up to the Admiral. "This is Master Qui-Gon Jinn."

"My apologies." Admiral Silver let go of the man's hand and moved to the table. "Please, sit down." The two Jedi sat down at each side of the table while the Admiral took the seat at the head of the table. Just as he sat down, the soldier to his left placed two files on the table. "Carry on." With a salute, the two soldiers left the room. "Gentlemen, I'd like to start off by sincerely thanking you for coming. Professor Ozpin told me you were the right people to speak with."

"He said the same thing about you," said Qui-Gon. "Despite your relations with the rest of the world."

"Yes, that's why you're here. Did he tell you anything else?"

"His story, as well as the Councils of each Kingdom, say the same thing," said Obi-Wan. "Of a string of attacks and murders that all tie back to you, along with the 'security' you've been trying to provide. But Ozpin seems to believe you're innocent."

"What I want to share with you, as well as the Atlesian Council, cannot leave this room." The Admiral pushed the two files to each Jedi, and they opened them to reveal papers entitled The Phantom Menace. One look at this paper gave Qui-Gon a clue as to what this was about.

"You're afraid," he said, sensing the Admiral's feelings well.

"Truth be told... I am," Silver confessed with a sigh. "As you all know, the Kingdom of Atlas is known for its advancements in technology and economy. With the Vytal Festival having concluded, the Council saw it fit to make new efforts to share our greatness with the rest of the world, to be more permanent than every two years."

"Admiral, while the idea does sound gracious, I'm sure you would understand the many... disagreements that your attempts have created," Qui-Gon pointed out.

"Indeed," the Admiral agreed. "While Councilwoman Naberrie wanted to handle things more tactfully, she was outvoted by the rest of the eager members. We were hoping to handle opposition peacefully and within reason when we travelled to each Kingdom. However, the larger voices of opposition began to either disappear... or turn up dead."

"Each Council spoke of this," said Obi-Wan. "They don't seem to believe this to be coincidence."

"...Nor do I." The Admiral turned to Obi-Wan's file and moved the front piece of paper, which showed a few pictures of men and women with a list of names. Just then, he pulled out a Scroll with a recording of himself sitting at a desk. "I was scheduled to meet with the top objectors, but they never arrived. That should have been the first sign that something was wrong."

"What was the second?"

"The picture on the next page."

The Jedi turned their files to see a massive pile of bodies. Soldiers, citizens, it looked like there had been a massacre. And it was a complete bloodbath, one that made the hearts of the Jedi ache. Admiral Silver could see their discomfort, but this was not his intention. But rather, it was to show them a symbol painted in blood on the wall behind them. "A private investigation was carried out to see who was behind the murders. I tried to keep this under wraps, but news found its way to the public. As it always does."

Qui-Gon closed the folder, unable to look at the picture anymore. "Admiral... I'm sure you understand that-"

"This is madness!" Obi-Wan yelled as he stood up. "Why keep this a secret?! This isn't an investigation, this is murder!"

"Obi-Wan, please!" While Qui-Gon was also upset with this turn of events, he was able to keep his true emotions hidden. But Obi-Wan was still young and passionate about the lives of innocents, and willing to do whatever it took to protect them. "I understand your feelings, but don't let them-!"

"Mr. Jinn, it's alright," the Admiral said calmly. "This was one of the reactions I expected. But I need you to know that this isn't part of some conspiracy of my design, not an attempt at another Great War." The Admiral took one file and opened to the same page, pointing at the symbol. "This was an attack on me."

"...You?" the younger Jedi asked, with some skepticism. "How could you know that?"

"Mistral believes this to be some gang symbol previously placed in this room. But this is no gang. This is an attack on me... and it's not the first." The Admiral pulled out another picture from the file, this one taken in a Dust mine. "The Schnee Dust Company has reported two accidents that left miners and my soldiers trapped for days. When they were dug out, all we could find was this symbol."

"Why does an army have interest in a common Dust mine?"

"We've established a few military operations, all legal and under approval of Nicholas Schnee. All of them have been destroyed and left with this calling card. You can speak with Mr. Schnee if you like, he can confirm everything."

The Jedi looked at each other again, sensing the Admiral's feelings well. His fear and uncertainty was hidden, but they could sense that which was hidden. He was afraid, and he was telling the truth. "...So you're saying someone is personally attacking you and people across all Kingdoms?" Qui-Gon asked.

"I just don't know who. Hence the title of this operation. And after the incident with the Vale Council, I knew I couldn't guarantee the safety of my own Council."

Rather than merely believing Admiral Silver, Qui-Gon knew he was right. He had seen that symbol before, a blood red circle surrounded by what appeared to be fire on all sides. He knew what it meant, and knew that now was the time to act. "Consider the Atlas Council under our protection," said the Jedi Master. "My Padawan and I will stay here for a while until this threat reveals-"

"Um, actually... I was hoping you could escort the Council away from Atlas," said Admiral Silver. "I don't know everything about the place you call your home, but I had plans to escort the Council there."

"...I beg your pardon?"

"Well, I heard that not only is it ignored, but your island is very well protected, with more people of your... abilities. Ozpin's words, not mine."

After having collected his thoughts and feelings once again, Obi-Wan decided it was time to speak up. "With all due respect Admiral, not everyone on Remnant knows about our home for a reason. If we were to bring people from Atlas there, I can't imagine what would happen."

"I understand, but I just don't know what else to do," the Admiral replied. "Even the Council is having doubts in my abilities to maintain control over this threat. If you would just hear me out-"

"Admiral, it may be wise to invite the Council now," said Qui-Gon. "Since you have our trust and cooperation, we can speak with the Council and perhaps provide another solution."

"...Very well." The Atlesian stood up. "I'll go fetch them immediately." As he left, a soldier brought in a tray of drinks for the Jedi. Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon took one and drank as they reflected on what they heard.

"Is it Atlesian nature to hide the truth for so long?" Obi-Wan asked, still unsure of the actions the Admiral took.

"One would think," Qui-Gon assumed. "And yet, I sense not only an unusual amount of fear from the Admiral, but perhaps what you sensed minutes ago." Qui-Gon put his drink down and turned to his Padawan. "Have you been to the Jedi Archives as of late?"

"Yes, Master."

"Did you recognize that symbol?"

"I did. The Archives have a story about an unnamed Jedi who abandoned our ways long ago. Some say he found... you know who... and was taught new things about the Force. All anyone can remember about that Jedi was the symbol he wore around his neck." Obi-Wan pointed to the symbol in the file to emphasize his point. "Perhaps Ozpin was right to send us here."

"And even more right to trust the Admiral."

"But to send the Council to Coruscant? No outsider has stepped foot there since its founding."

"I normally would have no objection, but... the Jedi Council may agree with you. It may be best to consider alternate methods of protection."

"Not just for the Atlesian Council, but the rest of the world. They too face this unknown enemy, we need to warn them."

"And we will, once we have-"

*BOOM*

A faint yet detectable explosion caused the Jedi to jump out of their seats and pull out their weapons, a green and blue lightsaber. An alarm and red flash filled the room as footsteps outside quickly passed the room. Obi-Wan rushed to the door and opened it to see multiple soldiers running back towards the landing pads.

One soldier, TC-14, noticed the Jedi and stopped running. "Sir, stay in the room for your own safety!" she advised.

"What's happening?" Obi-Wan asked.

"There's an armed and extremely dangerous intruder at the landing pads! The Admiral's sending all available troops to neutralize him!"

Obi-Wan could tell that their plan wasn't going to work. The threat he sensed when he first arrived had made itself more known now. And nobody in its path was safe. Qui-Gon shared his Padawan's sentiments and knew what to do.

"We need to speak with the Admiral. Nobody here is safe," he demanded.

TC-14 quickly pulled out her Scroll and handed it to the older Jedi. "The Admiral will be the first contact you see on here. Now stay in the room!" She quickly rejoined her comrades as Qui-Gon called Sterling Silver.

Once he established contact, the two men made a new plan to get the Council out of Atlas by using his personal airship. Using the directions he gave, the Jedi found Admiral Silver with five other people in front of a silver airship with a set of small black windows.

"Is this everyone?" Obi-Wan asked.

"Yes," Silver replied honestly. "I don't care where we go, but we have to leave now! I have two pilots warming up the ship, we'll be ready to go soon!"

Qui-Gon looked to see the Atlesian Council run onto the airship. After a signal from the pilots came, everyone else was ready to join them. But Admiral Silver went straight for the exit.

"Qui-Gon, protect the Council!" he ordered. "I have to order the lockdown of the Academy!"

Qui-Gon was about to go onto the ship, but sensed something was wrong. "Admiral, drop!"

Silver didn't know what was going on, why Qui-Gon needed him to duck down. But suddenly, a faint explosion answered his question. Quickly falling to the ground, Admiral Silver witnessed the door exploding and flying towards the ship. When the fire that followed died down, a black shape leapt into the room. Silver looked up to see the shape fly towards Qui-Gon and ignite a red blade.

Qui-Gon immediately took out his lightsaber and deflected each strike the figure swung at him. While he was fighting for his life, the hanger door opened to the reveal the clear sky. The ship began to take off in the air with the Atlesian Council and Obi-Wan.

In order for Qui-Gon to join them, Admiral Silver activated his Semblance. When he did, the Aura surrounding his body began to glow. Not only that, but steam escaped his body and burned the flesh. The Aura that once surrounded Silver had now fused to his body, with his eyes becoming pure white. Yet the soldier felt no pain. He instead lunged at the assassin and caught the red blade, allowing him to send a violent strike into the enemy's gut. While an attack like this would have knocked him unconscious, the unknown enemy jumped back to his feet and began to fight the soldier again.

"Go!" Silver yelled back at Qui-Gon.

"..."

Qui-Gon could see that the Atlesian was giving everything he had to keep the assassin at bay. If he didn't act now, then the assassin had the chance to get onto the airship. If he did such a thing, the lives of the Atlesain Council would be at great risk. So with a heavy heart, Qui-Gon rushed inside and closed the airship doors. The pilots took this as a sign to take off, so they did just that.

However, a sudden drag made the ship remain stationary. Emergency sirens filled the air along with a red light as Qui-Gon looked out the window. He could see the Admiral continue to struggle against the hooded figure, but he also saw the figure holding his hand out in the air. He had an invisible grip in his hand, but Qui-Gon could sense that the Force was strong with this assassin. So strong that he was holding an airship like this like it was nothing. However, the grip was released once Silver grabbed the assassin's hand and squeezed. The ship was able to take off properly this time, although one of the wings was damaged.

As soon as Qui-Gon entered the sitting room inside the ship, he saw Obi-Wan trying to calm everyone down and maintain order to the apparent chaos the assassin had created. But all voices were silent once the Council could see Qui-Gon was on the ship. The young Padawan was the first to address the Jedi Master.

"Are you alright?" he asked in concern.

"I think so..." Qui-Gon replied, his mind turning back to the immediate events he walked away from. "That was a surprise I won't soon forget."

"What was it?" one of the Councilmen, a man with a thin gray beard asked, referring to the figure that almost killed them. "And where's Admiral Silver?"

"The Admiral stayed behind," Qui-Gon answered, but he didn't seem sad about the sacrifice. "But I wouldn't fear for his life. My guess is that he'll escape from Atlas and be after us soon. More specifically... all of you." Every member of the Council either gasped at the idea or whispered among themselves. One woman, however, made her way towards the cockpit of the airship with a little girl by her side. Qui-Gon stayed behind to pick up where Obi-Wan left off. "Please, try to stay calm. The Admiral entrusted me with the task to keep you safe, and I intend to make sure that trust does not become vain." The Master turned to his Padawan and gestured to the corner. After they were out of earshot of the Council, they had their own discussion of what happened.

"You didn't answer the Councilman's question," Obi-Wan observed. "What was that?"

"I'm not sure," Qui-Gon confessed. "But it was well trained in the Jedi arts. The Admiral may have slowed it down, but it will be after us soon."

"But Silver said that it may be after him. What if we gave it what it wanted?"

"No. This is more than just a personal vendetta. If it were, it wouldn't have tried to stop us from leaving."

"Then what do we do?"

"...We shall be patient. First, we shall tell the rest of the world that Atlas is innocent of all the accusations. Perhaps Ozpin can give us a place to rest while we explain the rest."

"So we're going to Vale first?"

Before Qui-Gon could confirm this as part of the plan, the airship made a small but noticeable turn. Sensing this change of course would take them away from Vale, the Jedi quickly made their way to the cockpit to find Councilwoman Naberrie directing the pilots.

"Councilwoman Naberrie, I'd suggest you take your seat," Qui-Gon politely requested. "And let us chart a course for Vale."

"You're going to tell the rest of the world the truth, aren't you?" the Councilwoman deduced. "A sound plan, but I know a place better than Vale."

Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan had some doubts about this claim. Given that Councilwoman Naberrie was the youngest person to ever be elected on a Kigdom's Council, her inexperience with a situation like this made the Jedi uneasy. "...With all due respect, ma'am, we have a friend in Vale whose influence is strong in the Council. If you'd let us take you to him, we'll find someplace for the Council to rest and recuperate."

The Councilwoman quickly turned around. "And with all due respect to you, my friend in Vacuo is Councilwoman Mothma, who can finally help us bring back peace between all Kingdoms."

The stunned Jedi were silent at the idea before Obi-Wan spoke up. "She has a point, Master. Mon Mothma spoke on behalf of Vacuo to agree with the idea of our involvement. And she can help us persuade the rest of the Council."

"Without losing any more of our friends," Councilwoman Naberrie included. "I'm responsible for the well-being of my fellow Councilmen, Mister Jinn." The woman looked down to the little girl by her side, who was on the verge of tears. "As well as my daughter's well being. I'll be working with you for her best interest."

"...Very well," Qui-Gon agreed. While he would prefer to see Ozpin first before doing anything, it was better than risking the safety of Coruscant to a group of outsiders... and whatever that mysterious figure was.

A woman in her late twenties had just entered her living room to look for the remote to her television. She was searching for it rather frantically, given that she needed to confirm some news she had just received. Once she found it, the woman turned on the television and switched to the Atlas Eye, the official news channel of Atlas.

"After hours of suspense and worry, the people of Atlas have just received confirmation that Atlas Academy was the victim of a brazen attack. While the number of perpetrators is still unknown, over thirty Atlas soldiers have been grievously injured in the attack. One such victim was Admiral Sterling Silver, who spoke on behalf of the Atlesian Council moments ago. For those just joining us, the Admiral has declared that an assassination attempt on the Council was foiled and the Council has been evacuated. Under direct orders from Admiral Silver, the Kingdom is being placed under martial law until the city is safe for the return of the Council. While our thoughts and prayers go out to each member, the question still remains; where are they now?"

*KNOCK*

*KNOCK*

*KNOCK*

The woman didn't bother to turn off her television when she heard the knock at her door. Her fears were as strong as the house she resided in, which caused her to swing the door open. However, these fears disappeared as quickly as they came once the woman laid eyes on a group of older people led by a young woman.

"Jobal," the lady of the house addressed her guest before pulling her into a hug. "Thank God you're safe."

"It's good to see you as well, Mon," Jobal Naberrie said as she embraced the warm gesture. After a few seconds, she pulled away to introduce the rest of the Council to Mon Mothma. However, the two Jedi walked closer to the door in order to present their news to the Councilwoman of Vacuo.

"Mister Jinn. Mister Kenobi," Mothma said in surprise. "I'm surprised to see you back so soon." She looked past the Jedi. "And with the rest of the Atlesian Council."

"We're surprised to be here as well, Councilwoman Mothma," said Qui-Gon. "But recent events left us with little choice to but to find a safe place for the moment. I'm afraid the situation in Atlas is worse than we imagined."

"I've noticed." The Councilwoman stepped aside. "Please, come in. You can explain everything to me." Everyone came inside the spacious house, the last being young Padmé. The Councilwoman smiled as she kneeled down to the child. "Oh, look how big you've grown!"

"Auntie Mon!" Padmé addressed the woman as they shared a hug. Her mother's job as a Councilwoman allowed Padmé to meet many people, but Mon Mothma was the one she adored the most. During her childhood, the kind woman had become like an aunt to the child, so Jobal Naberrie saw it fit to make her not only Padmé's aunt, but also her godmother.

After everyone was in the house, the Jedi explained the situation. Using the proof Admiral Silver had provided before the attack and the Council's testament of the events, Mon Mothma was more than persuaded to help. The most pleased person of the group was arguably Obi-Wan, for he reminded his Master that the negotiations were indeed short.

Ignoring the joke, Qui-Gon began to make a plan with Mon Mothma to clear Atlas' name. While the Council of Vacuo had a very marginal role in the government of the Kingdom, and Mon Mothma wanted to change that, the rest of the Council would be able to help in this situation. Of course, they would all need to travel to Vale and Mistral to pull it off.

The plan went underway immediately. While the majority of the Atlesian Council was lead by Obi-Wan and Mon Mothma to speak with the Council of Vacuo, Qui-Gon would search the city of Vacuo to find any place that could provide the parts necessary for the airship's repairs. Given that the airship was placed in the care of Councilwoman Naberrie, she travelled with Qui-Gon, with her daughter in tow, in order to provide any assistance she could offer.

After a while of searching, the closest thing they could find was a junk shop run by a Faunus that Qui-Gon could only assume had the traits of a vulture. And given all the mostly useless material the manager had managed to scavenge, it seemed the physical traits weren't the only qualities the Faunus shared with a vulture.

"We need parts for a J-type 327 Atlesian airship," said Qui-Gon.

"Ah yes, ah yes," the Faunus said as he stroked his abnormal neck. "Atlesian. We have lots of that." He then turned towards a doorway that led outside. "Boy, get in here! Now!"

"My Scroll has a readout of what we need," said Jobal, who took out her Scroll.

Before the shopkeeper could say anything, a young disheveled boy in burgundy rags walked in. He turned to the shopkeeper as the Faunus asked him a question. "What took you so long?"

"I was cleaning the bin like you told me, Watto..." the tired boy replied.

"Never mind that. Watch the store. I got some selling to do." The shopkeeper led Qui-Gon and the Councilman outside, leaving young Padmé to wait by the counter where the boy was sitting.

When the boy looked upon the girl, who was around his age, he was speechless. He had rarely met someone his age in Watto's shop, and he was glad that she walked in. Once his initial shock faded away, he asked the first thing that was on his mind.

"Are you an angel?"

Padmé turned to the counter in confusion. After a second, she smiled. "What?" she asked.

"An angel," the boy repeated. "I've heard the airship pilots talk about one. She saved them from one of the largest Grimm herds outside the city. All they could say when they came here was that she was the most beautiful person on Remnant. She was good and kind, and so pretty that she could make even the most hardened spice pirate cry."

Young Padmé had a good feeling that the "angel" in this case was a Huntress, but that didn't stop her from wanting to know more from the imaginative boy. "I've never heard of angels."

"You must be one. Maybe you just don't know it."

Padmé giggled as she moved closer to the counter. "You're a funny boy. How do you know so much?"

"I listen to all the traders and pilots who come through here. I'm reading a book about being a pilot, and someday I'm gonna fly away from this place."

"You're going to be a pilot?"

"Mm-hmm."

"Wow. You must have been here a long time, if you want to leave so badly."

"I've been in Vacuo since I was very little. Three, I think. My mom and I were sold to a family in Atlas... but they lost us on the Vytal Festival."

"...Sold?" Padmé was confused as to how a person could be sold and bought like food or a toy, she thought the idea sounded silly. But she remembered one of the issues in Atlas her mother was trying to root out and expose, she explained it one time during dinner. The young girl remembered that the word was "slavery" and that her mother thought it was unfair. "You're a slave?"

The boy quickly became angry and glared defiantly at Padmé. "I'm a person! My name's Anakin!"

"I'm sorry," Padmé said as she backed away. "I don't fully understand." She looked around the junk shop as she continued to back away. "This is a strange place to me." Just as she said that, her back bumped into a piece of metal with a glass circle on it. The metal suddenly jumped in the air and unfolded into a body with arms and legs. Padmé yelped as she saw the small robot run around and make a mess of things. "Wait, come back!" She immediately gave chase to make the droid stop before it broke something.

"Hey!" Anakin called out. When Padmé turned to him, Anakin gave a simple instruction. "Hit the nose!" The girl did as she was told and pressed the glass orb in the center. Just as she did, the droid folded back into its original position. The children simultaneously laughed, finding humor in their ordeal.

Watto came into the shop and looked around. "What's going on here?" he asked impatiently. "And why are you sitting there doing nothing?"

"You left without giving me something to do!" Anakin argued.

"Alright, fine." Watto watched his customers enter the shop with a wagon of parts. "These two have everything they need. Help them get it to wherever they're going, then you can go home."

"Yippie!" Anakin quickly leapt off the counter and rushed to the door, with Qui Gon and Jobal following him.

"You don't need to be so mean to him," Padmé argued with the shopkeeper.

Watto quickly looked down at the other child. "Hey, I don't tell you how to do things in Atlas. Don't tell me how to run my shop."

Jobal quickly walked over to Padmé. "I'm sorry about that," she said, although she agreed with her daughter. "Come on, Padmé."

Content with the discipline, Watto turned to Qui-Gon with an extended hand. "My delivery services cost extra," he said.

"Very well," Qui-Gon said as he reached into his pocket. The action caused his robe to move just enough to reveal his lightsaber hanging on his belt. Padmé caught a glimpse and thought nothing of it. Anakin, however, gasped when his eyes landed on the metal.

Instead of asking about the hilt, Anakin spent his voyage to the nicer part of Vacuo talking with Padmé. She was happy to have the company, and her mother was happy to see that she wasn't scared about their ordeal anymore.

That, and she seemed to be quite taken with this boy.

"...wouldn't have lasted long if I weren't so good at fixing things," Anakin said to Padmé.

"You said you were building a robot?" Padmé asked.

"Yep. I found parts at the shop, I think it used to be an old Atlesian Knight. I took off the weapons and armor, it's going to help my mom."

"That's amazing. All I've seen droids do is walk around and kill Grimm."

"Well, mine's about to do something new."

The group finally managed to reach Mon Mothma's house, where Obi-Wan was waiting outside. "Atlas has persuaded Vacuo," he said. "Once the ship is finished, they'll both be meeting with the Councils of Vale and Mistral."

"Excellent," said Qui-Gon. "We should get started right away.

"You came all the way to Vacuo to fix your ship?" Anakin asked. "Was it caught in the sandstorm?"

"Actually, yes," Qui Gon answered, surprised the boy was curious about something as tedious as fixing a ship. "That, and one of the wings is bad."

"I can help! I can fix anything!"

Before they could protest, everyone watched Anakin move the wagon of parts they bought towards the ship. All Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon could do was join him.

After she watched everyone leave, Jobal looked down to her daughter. "Did you make a new friend, Padmé?" she asked with a smile.

"He's a little strange, Mother," Padmé replied. "But he's funny. And he seems smart, if he can fix anything."

"Especially our ship. Even with the Ambassadors helping him, it seems unsafe for him."

"Well, I don't think the man at the shop cares. I think Anakin might be..." Padmé wasn't sure if Anakin could still hear him, so she gestured for her mother to lean down. Once she did, Padmé whispered into her ear.

"Oh, no!"

Mon Mothma told her that she had heard of isolated cases of slavery in Vacuo. Even though there were few cases, Mon was trying to change the law so that slavery like Anakin's would be illegal. But the Council of Vacuo only held a small degree of order in the Kingdom, so the deed was proving to be rather difficult.

"I can't believe there's still slavery out here," Jobal sadly thought to herself. "After everything Mon and I have been trying to do."

Back at the ship, Anakin had found problems that would have escaped the eyes of the adults supervising him. From wads of sand in critical components to loose wires, Anakin was capable of fixing anything he saw wrong.

"We cannot thank you enough, Anakin," said Obi-Wan. "With this kind of progress, this ship should be fixed by tomorrow."

"As soon as you get back to Atlas, you should get it fitted for Vacuo travel," said Anakin. "Sandstorms wouldn't be a problem anymore."

"It seems more airships need something like that," said Qui-Gon. "Perhaps that would explain the rarity of airships around Vacuo."

"That's what most of the airship pilots say. When I get my own ship, I'm going to make sure I never come back here."

"So you want to be a pilot?"

"Uh-huh."

"The world would be better with more pilots. Obi-Wan doesn't really like flying."

"I never have. It always leaves my body feeling strange."

Anakin laughed at Obi-Wan, unable to fathom the idea of someone who didn't like flying. "But you can go anywhere you like when you fly!"

"Not entirely true", the young Jedi argued. "You could walk, or take a boat. Staying close to the ground is much better if you ask me."

"But I thought you needed a ship to leave your island."

"True, but I prefer not to be the one-Wait, what?"

Qui-Gon was also taken back by Anakin's statement. Nobody ever considered the Kingdom of Atlas or Solitas as an island before. And the only island that the Jedi called their home was Coruscant. But they made sure not to say a word about their home to the Council, or anyone else.

So how did Anakin know they were from an island?

"What makes you think that, my friend?" Qui-Gon asked calmly.

"Think what?" Anakin asked, confused by the matter.

"That we're from an island. Obi-Wan and I are from Vale, we're just helping-"

"Well, what about that?" Anakin pointed to Qui-Gon's lightsaber.

"What about it? This is just a spare piece I picked up at the junk shop."

"No, it's not. It's a laser sword."

"..."

Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon glanced at each other in disbelief. First the island and now knowledge about lightsabers? The two Jedi would have known if someone came or left Coruscant, especially at a young age. So how did this child know about this?

And... how much more did he know?

Qui-Gon had to find out more, so a plan began to form in his mind. "Anakin, I think we've done enough work for today," he said. "Before you go home, I was hoping we could talk. Perhaps inside the ship?"

"Really?" Anakin asked. "...Okay." Anakin walked away from the wing of the airship and marched up the ramp to the door, leaving the Jedi alone.

"Obi-Wan, return to the house. I'll be with you shortly."

"Yes, Master."

When Qui-Gon stepped inside the airship, he found Anakin sitting down on the comfortable sofa. "Can you leave the door open?" he politely asked.

Qui-Gon obliged with Anakin's request and smiled. "You're a very wise child," he said. "But you should know I have no intention of hurting you. I just wish to ask you a few questions."

"Okay."

Qui-Gon knew what he was about to do was risky, that it jeopardized the safety and secrecy of the Jedi Order. But there was no other way to learn how Anakin had such knowledge of these secrets. So with an incredible amount of reluctance, Qui-Gon activated his lightsaber, emitting a green glow in the room.

Anakin stared at the blade in amazement. "I knew it!" he cried. "I knew it was a laser sword!"

"Actually, we call this a lightsaber. Not many know of its existence. But you do." The light disappeared and Qui-Gon put the hilt away. "And I'm curious as to how."

"That's because I've seen it before."

"You've seen someone else use it."

"Yeah! Well, actually... I haven't seen it in real life."

"How do you mean?"

"I dreamt about one of those swords."

"You've had dreams about them?"

"Ever since I could remember. At first, they were these... pictures. Just pictures of people holding those, protecting people against the Grimm, and seeing the world. When I was six, the dreams became more clearer, and I saw other things."

"Six... and I would say you're about ten, aren't you?"

"Nine, actually."

"And you've had these dreams as long as you can remember?"

"Yep."

"You were never curious as to what they were?"

"A little. I just thought they were stories I made up. About being a hero, and freeing every slave across the world. Is that what you do with your sword? And what your friends do?"

"Something like that. I'm a peacekeeper, and so is my friend. That is why we're trying to help the Atlas Council."

"And what about-?"

"Anakin, before you ask anything else, would it be alright if I asked you to do something?"

"Sure... I guess."

Qui-Gon had a feeling as to what would happen in the next few moments. He had heard stories of how Jedi had found Force-sensitive children across the world, and how they joined the Jedi Order. In all his years as a Jedi, this may be his first time finding a Force-sensitive child.

But he had to make sure.

"Close your eyes," Qui-Gon requested. Anakin did so, the only thing he was doing now was breathing slowly. "You've seen people like me in your dreams. Does that mean you've seen where we've come from?"

"Yeah," Anakin said with confidence. "Your island."

"Do you think you can describe what you've seen in your dreams? What you see when you think of my home?"

Anakin began to struggle. "I... I see..." He was silent for almost a minute, as he was in deep concentration. Qui-Gon was patiently waiting for an answer, and was more than surprised when Anakin spoke again, with even more concentration.

"I keep seeing an island... not very large, far from the coasts of any other Kingdom. The beach is covered with sand, but not like the sand here. It's orange, except when it's near water. There are dozens of trees not far from the beach, but there's a straight path in the middle. It goes down a flight of rock stairs, where there's this... building. A big one, with big statues in front. Inside, the halls have a lot of space, with smooth columns and red carpets."

"And inside the building? You see people like me?"

"Yeah, human and Faunus." Anakin began to laugh. "There's even a small Faunus who's like a frog. He talks funny."

Qui-Gon grew more and more surprised with Anakin. He not only described Coruscant's beaches and forests perfectly, but he also described the Jedi Temple as if he's lived there for years. And he even knew Master Yoda.

"You've seen him before? What does he usually do?"

"When he's not with the grown-ups, he's with kids like me. He's telling us to... reach out. To feel our environment. I... I feel life. And death. Death that can bring new life. I can see it everywhere, even in the sand."

Just as Anakin was saying all of this, Qui-Gon heard a small noise behind him. Turning around, he saw a small tool floating in the air. He knew that he wasn't using the Force, and Obi-Wan should be inside the house. Turning back to Anakin, he saw an empty glass next to him begin to move. Young Anakin Skywalker was using the Force. And it was making Qui-Gon's head hurt. "You can open your eyes," he said.

Just as Anakin opened them, the glass and tool stopped moving. "Are you okay?" he asked.

"Fine, fine." Qui-Gon stood up and moved to the ramp. "I think I've kept you here long enough. Your mother must be waiting for you."

"Oh, yeah!" Anakin ran out from the ship. "Do you think I can come back tomorrow?"

"I'd like that very much. And we could use your help with the rest of the ship."

"Great!" Anakin began to run off. "See you tomorrow!"

As Anakin went away from the ship, Qui-Gon moved to the house. Inside, he saw Jobal and Mon hovering over an exhausted Obi-Wan. Jobal turned to Qui-Gon as he came closer. "He fell down the stairs," she explained. "He was fine a second ago, but I think he blacked out."

"I'm alright, I'm alright," the younger Jedi insisted. "Just... a bad headache." He turned to his Master, who seemed to be sharing his thoughts. Obi-Wan lied when he said that it was a headache; he had felt a disturbance in the Force, and he could tell that Qui-Gon had felt it too. "Actually, do you think I could have some water and ice?"

"Of course," Jobal replied as she and Mon left the room to get some water and ice for his head.

"You have sensed it too?" Qui-Gon asked when they were alone.

"Yes, Master. I sensed... an awakening. I've felt them before, but nothing like this. It was as if the Force energy of ten Jedi had just awakened at once."

"Not ten, Obi-Wan." Qui-Gon turned to the door. "Just one."

Obi-Wan vaguely remembered what happened with Anakin. "The boy? But... what does that mean?"

"I'm not sure. But I have one idea." Qui-Gon sensed the presence of the Councilwomen returning, so he ended the conversation abruptly. "We'll speak more of this tomorrow."

Anakin returned to Mon Mothma's house the next day, in the middle of the afternoon. While he was working on the ship, the young boy was also talking about his life in Vacuo. The details that Qui-Gon picked up were the facts that he was a slave his entire life and that he never knew his father.

Jobal and Padmé came aboard to offer drinks for the mechanics, and they took them graciously. However, Padmé was wondering if she could spend some time with Anakin. The Jedi said they could handle the rest from here, so Anakin joined his new friend inside the house.

"What are you thinking, Master?" Obi-Wan asked.

"Other than the fact this ship should be able to fly without a problem, I think I may be right about the boy," Qui-Gon said.

"You're sure of this?"

"I have no doubts." Qui-Gon put down his tools and sat down. "Other Jedi are vaguely familiar with the idea, but I know it well. In the Jedi Archives lies thousands of pieces from years past. Jedi wisdom, Ozpin's exploits, you can find anything there. And that's where I found the prophecy of the Chosen One."

"The Chosen One? For what?"

"The prophecy speaks of a young boy, with conditions all too similar to Anakin's, much closer in contact with the Force than anyone could be. They could even rival Ozpin."

"An impressive feat. But that doesn't answer my question."

"The Chosen One is meant to bring balance to the Force. And I can tell you now that it is more than out of balance. The Council has sensed this for far too long."

"A new threat is arising?"

"Given what we have sensed and my brief encounter with the assassin... I am more than sure. We need hope. We need the Chosen One."

"Does this mean we have a way to fight back against Salem? After all these years?"

"I cannot be certain. But brining balance to the Force may bring us one step closer to uniting Remnant."

Obi-Wan looked outside the ship to see Anakin and Padmé playing. "The fate of the world rests on his shoulders. He wouldn't take the news well."

Not now, no. Which is why he must learn when he is older, years after we take him to Coruscant."

Obi-Wan turned around. "He's to come with us then?"

"He must. We cannot ignore the opportunity presented to us. And we cannot allow him to fall into other hands."

"You have a plan?"

"I will make the junk dealer an offer he cannot refuse. If there's one thing I've learned about businessmen, it's that everyone has their price."

"What about his mother?"

"I see no harm in trying to free her as well... but she cannot come with us."

"I know. But she won't take the idea of her son leaving very well."

"Leave that to me. I have a feeling she may have some knowledge of our existence as well, if Anakin wasn't lying when he said his mother knows of his dreams."

"Still, I urge caution, Master."

"I appreciate your concern, my friend. But try not to worry."

Footsteps behind them grabbed the attention of the Jedi, who saw none other than Anakin and Padmé standing behind them. "What are you worried about?" he asked.

Obi-Wan was quick enough to think of an excuse. "Well, we're worried about someone following us when we leave", he said. "Ships in Vacuo have been known to fall victim to pirates."

"If you're worried about being followed, you can check it out for yourself."

The Jedi turned to see Anakin move towards the console, and Obi-Wan joined him. "How would you suggest we do this?" he asked curiously.

"If someone's coming here, chances are they can hide themselves and encrypt their messages." Anakin moved some circuitry and pressed a few buttons on the panel. "I met a pilot who showed me how to break an encryption in a few seconds."

Obi-Wan chuckled at the idea. "Seconds? Maybe one could break it in a few minutes, but I highly doubt-"

"Hold on, Obi-Wan," Qui-Gon said as he also joined Anakin. "Let's see what Anakin can do."

"..."

The Jedi patiently watched the child at work, who finished after twenty seconds. Once he did, Anakin turned a knob on the radio. Static was the first thing to be heard, but a voice on the other end played as clear as day.

"We got that shipment fresh from the SDC. We're sending our clearance code now, then we can help you unload."

Obi-Wan's eyes widened at the sound of the voice. "Master, isn't there a city to the north that Vacuo owns with Atlas? Like Argus?"

"There is," Qui-Gon confirmed. "And if I'm not mistaken, the Schnee Dust Company would be making a fresh shipment of Dust today, just now." He looked down at Anakin. "And Vacuo's transmission systems couldn't hear about it until half a day later. This... is remarkable."

"Well done, Anakin."

Padmé moved closer to see the impressive feat for herself. "Wow," she said in disbelief. "You're amazing!"

The young boy smiled at the praise. "Thanks," he said. "It's not as hard as it looks. And when you take your ship in the air, you can hear things just about anywhere." Just as Anakin changed the settings again, static cracked before a new voice sounded from the radio.

"Vacuo is sparsely populated. If the trace was correct, I will find them quickly, Master."

A new voice came shortly after.

"Move against the Jedi first. You will then have no difficulty in eliminating the Council, sending Atlas into chaos."

"At last we will reveal ourselves to the Jedi. At last we will have revenge."

"You have been well trained, my young apprentice. They will be no match for you."

The Councils of Atlas and Vacuo were informed of the message the Jedi intercepted. Knowing the assassin from before would stop at nothing to take everyone's life, a plan was made quickly.

The Councils were to travel to Mistral and Vale to explain the truth. Once the tensions from each Kingdom disappeared, Councilwoman Naberrie would find Professor Ozpin of Beacon Academy and warn him of the situation in Vacuo. Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon would stay behind and confront the man themselves.

As for Anakin, he was indeed freed from his service. When Qui-Gon offered him the chance to come to Coruscant with them, he was more than delighted. However, he was forced to leave his mother behind. Obi-Wan never knew how the farewell went, Qui-Gon and Anakin never spoke a word about it. So Anakin would travel with the Councils and wait for the Jedi at Beacon.

Once farewells and thanks were exchanged, the Councils fled in the now repaired and properly modified airship. Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan patiently waited for any abnormalities or signs of danger outside the city.

"No one must know of what we are about to do," said Qui-Gon. "We cannot be seen or heard."

"Yes, Master," Obi-Wan said. He was preparing for the battle to come to them, he knew what he was about to face. But for the life of him, Obi-Wan couldn't stop his hands shaking. Cold sweat was dripping from his forehead, and he was feeling a very foreign chill go up his spine. Qui-Gon on the other hand, was calm. He had faced the enemy before, and this time he was ready for anything. But if there was to be any chance at victory, Qui-Gon knew that his Padawan needed to be relaxed.

"Control your fears, Obi-Wan. We've faced dangers worse than this. And with you by my side, we will prevail."

"Yes, Master."

Qui-Gon's words brought no comfort to the Padawan, so he decided to try a different method. Sitting on the soft sand, Qui-Gon closed his eyes and breathed. "Meditate with me, Obi-Wan." Hearing him sit down across from him, Qui-Gon spoke once again. "There is no emotion."

"There is peace," said Obi-Wan, who also had his eyes closed and was breathing slowly.

"There is no ignorance."

"There is knowledge."

"There is no passion."

"There is serenity."

"There is no chaos."

"There is harmony."

"There is no death."

"There is the Force."

The Master and Padawan recited the code of the Jedi three more times before Obi-Wan felt his fears disappear. They recited it again afterwards, almost praying to the Force for clarity of mind and spirit. And that was what was needed soon. Nevertheless, Obi-Wan was grateful for his Master and his teachings, which gave him courage and hope where it all seemed to be lost. Qui-Gon, on the other hand, was proud to see that everything he learned and taught would live through his faithful apprentice. And even more lessons would come when he trained Anakin.

But that would have to wait, as a new presence was detected by the Jedi. They opened their eyes together and turned to the sand dunes. Walking on those dunes was a figure dressed in all black, just as he was in Atlas. He walked the sands alone, and yet he was followed by death and despair. It was as if everything that made life worth living for was foreign to this man, all he felt and brought to the world was darkness.

"It's time," said Qui-Gon, who stood up and removed his brown cloak. Obi-Wan followed suit, while also removing his lightsaber from his belt. "Remember your training, Obi-Wan. Remember all that we've accomplished together."

Obi-Wan nodded as he prepared himself for battle. "I share the same advice with you, Master. Do this, and we will prevail."

[Play 'Duel of the Fates']

The figured stopped right in front of the two Jedi. Lifting his head and hands, the man removed the black cloak he was wearing. Underneath it was something that not even the word "terrifying" could properly describe. The man's face was tattooed in both red and black, with yellow eyes staring daggers into the Jedi's souls. And on top of his head was bone. Not a simple cut or deep scar, but razor-sharp pieces of bone were sitting on top of his bald head.

Seeing that the appearance was nothing more than a strategy to scare them, Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan remained calm as they took their lightsabers in hand and activated them. The demonic figure before them got in a fighting stance as he also pulled out a lightsaber. Holding it with the ends facing left and right, one red blade appeared. And then another. A truly unique lightsaber.

Obi-Wan made the first move by leaping in the air, hoping to land a strike to the head. The man merely spun his blade and deflected the blow, leaving Obi-Wan standing behind him.

Qui-Gon joined the fight by running in and striking where his enemy was standing. But he merely deflected the blow with his other blade, which left him fighting a battle on two fronts.

Despite being outnumbered and blocked on both sides, the man's fighting style with the double-bladed lightsaber was unlike anything the Jedi had ever seen. Each strike they delivered was blocked with ease, and the man nearly hit each Jedi with each strike he returned.

The man was also very nimble, as he was able to jump and kick his opponents with ease as they wandered further and further into the desert. Obi-Wan knew that they would need a new way to fight, so he used the Force to create a small sandstorm to disorient his foe.

The sand nearly got in the man's eyes, but he merely jumped further away as he covered his face. Landing a few feet in front of the Jedi, the assassin used the Force to send sand off the ground. Using the heat from his blade, the man turned the sand into glass and sent it flying toward his enemies.

While Qui-Gon leapt away to avoid the glass shards, Obi-Wan used the Force to send them away. While they were about to communicate on another strategy, they heard something in the sky. Looking above them, the Master and Padawan saw a gray airship flying close to the ground. After quickly falling to the ground to avoid being hit, the Jedi looked up to see their enemy jump onto the ship, which began to fly towards them.

Rather than dodging this time, Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan jumped onto the airship to feel the wind flowing on them. The airship was going at a speed that not only prevented all three of them from falling off, but also allowed them to continue their duel. The duel and fighting styles of each combatant was the same as before, with none of them achieving a good blow.

However, the assassin was able to kick Obi-Wan's gut and cause the Jedi to lose his footing. As he fell back, Qui-Gon continued the duel. But he was having a hard time holding his own with two blades that spun as fast as lightning. The sweat on his hands was causing him to lose his grip on the lightsaber, one more strong strike could send it flying.

Only a miracle could save him now.

Fortunately, Obi-Wan was able to make the miracle himself by throwing his lightsaber at the wing of the airship. The ship began to lose altitude, but continued to move fast as it crashed into a sand dune.

Obi-Wan was knocked unconscious in the crash, and needed a minute to open his eyes. When he did, he felt nothing but pain throughout his body. With little choice, he grasped his lightsaber to retract his Aura. Feeling his wounds heal, Obi-Wan erupted from the remains of the ship and looked around. The sound of blades crashing into each other above his head caused Obi-Wan to look up and see his Master continuing his duel on top of a sand dune.

The crash allowed Qui-Gon to catch his breath and use his Aura to heal himself. The assassin was barely hurt and was able to continue the duel with ease.

It was this energy that allowed the tattooed swordsman to finally end his duel by hitting Qui-Gon in the face with his long hilt. When Qui-Gon felt his weapon leave his hand, he also felt a blade pierce his chest and exit through his back. All he could do was fall over and hit the ground.

"NNNNNOOOOOOO!"

Obi-Wan watched his Master's murderer turn towards him with the same fighting stance as before. As the Jedi's anger caused his blood to boil, he ran to the top of the sand dune and attempted to end the man's life. More strikes were dealt and deflected, but Obi-Wan was able to turn the tide once he struck his enemy's hilt. One blade disappeared, but the other red one remained. The duel was fought on equal terms now, but the cunning assassin was able to use the surrounding environment to his advantage. Sending a pile of sand into Obi-Wan's face, the assassin kicked him off the dune and tumbling down below.

Obi-Wan dug his hands into the sand and tired to regain his footing. However, all he could do was stay in one spot as he tried to dig himself out.

And to make matters worse, he was unlucky enough to be sliding right into a large Grimm the people of Vacuo called a "Sarlacc."

It's tentacles were able to loosely grab the Jedi's leg, causing the red and black figure watching him to smile in sadistic glee. Picking up the Padawan's lightsaber, he threw it towards the Grimm, which was swallowed whole.

[End music]

Satisfied with the idea of the second Jedi becoming a snack for the Grimm, the demonic man walked over to the body of Qui-Gon Jinn, who was still breathing. And for the first time since he met the two Jedi, he spoke.

"At last, we are alone. Now I can finish what I begun."

Kneeling closer to Qui-Gon's head, the man lowered his long metal hilt and reached into his black robes. A few seconds later, he pulled out a double bladed knife with two fiery ends.

"What... What are you... doing?" Qui-Gon weakly asked, having trouble breathing, while watching the heated blades come closer to his head.

"Claiming my trophy," the sinister man answered. Just as he finished talking, he reached towards his belt. Going inside his shirt, the man pulled out a chain of spiked bones like the ones embedded on his head. "All were taken from hunters. Warriors. Even Jedi." He then pointed to the bones on his head, where a fresh cut was waiting to be filled with foreign bone. "Now their strength is my own." He raised the knife. "Just as yours soon will be."

"Enough!"

The assassin looked up to see green energy flying towards him. The energy struck him in the face and sent him flying away from the body. However, he quickly recovered once the color disappeared, which led him to see that his new foe was a man dressed in a black suit with green underneath. His hair was graying and he was holding a long cane in his right hand. And now, he was prepared to fight with the cane.

The assassin, both angered that his work was disturbed and elated at the chance to claim another trophy, stood up and quickly retracted his Aura from his hilt. With its power healing his face, the murderer used his Aura to power his weapon once again and kill the next warrior.

His attention, however, was shifted away from the man and towards the moving lightsaber at Qui-Gon's feet. At first, it was merely shaking on the sand. But now, it flew off the ground and over the man's head. Following it quickly, he saw the metal fly into the hands of Obi-Wan Kenobi, who somehow used the Force to jump away from the Sarlacc and catch the lightsaber. Once Obi-Wan landed in front of his enemy, he used the remnants of Qui-Gon's Aura to send a lethal attack at the man's waist.

Unable to retract his Aura before the attack, the assassin could only feel the heat and energy slice his body, the pain sending him into shock. It was this shock that prevented him from doing anything else but fall down the same way Obi-Wan fell earlier. His legs abandoned the lower half of his body, and he silently fell into the Sarlacc's open mouth.

Just as the fallen enemy disappeared, the green light flickered before it disappeared on its own. Obi-Wan dropped the empty lightsaber and turned around to see none other than Ozpin, his friend and one of his mentors, kneeling down beside Qui-Gon Jinn. He quickly followed and kneeled down to his Master. "Is he-?"

"I fear... the wound is fatal," said Ozpin. "There's nothing we can do."

This was the first time Obi-Wan hated that Ozpin was right. Without Qui-Gon's Aura, nothing could heal the wound in his chest. Obi-Wan mentally cursed himself for everything that just happened. He hated himself for getting caught in the trapped ship. He hated himself for being so reckless in his duel. And he hated himself for wasting the only thing that could save his Master.

But despite everything, there were still two people who didn't blame him for this tragedy. And one of them weakly lifted his arm and took Obi-Wan's sleeve.

"...Obi-Wan..." Qui-Gon weakly said as he struggled to breathe. Obi-Wan quickly cradled Qui-Gon's head and listened closely. "Pro... Promise me... you will train the boy."

"Yes, Master," Obi-Wan replied, a tear falling down his face.

Qui-Gon lifted his finger to dry the tear. "He is the Chosen One... he will... bring balance... Train him."

Obi-Wan did nothing but nod his head over and over again, promising his Master that he would train Anakin. Satisfied that the phantom menace was gone and that the Chosen One's future was in good hands, Qui-Gon silently closed his eyes and left the mortal realm of existence.

The airship ride was a silent one. Ozpin's heart ached just as much as Obi-Wan's. He knew Qui-Gon, how wise and brave he was. Ozpin knew all Jedi, but Qui-Gon was one of the select few who Ozpin felt extraordinarily close to. The same could be said for Obi-Wan, who didn't leave the covered body's side for one minute. He was even the one who carried it out of the airship when they landed at a large building.

There to greet them were multiple people in brown cloaks, who were standing in two lines parallel to each other. They carried blue and green lightsabers and had them activated. Ozpin had informed the Jedi what had happened before they left the sands of Vacuo, which gave them time to make the necessary preparations for the body.

Obi-Wan walked down the path the other Jedi had created for him. Carrying the body and walking straight for five minutes led the Padawan to an altar made of stone, covered in wood and straw. There waited twelve other Jedi, whose faces were not covered by hoods. The Jedi closest to the altar was a small one, and older than all the rest. His skin was green, his hair was white, and eyes were as wide as they were green. This was Jedi Master Yoda, and standing at his side was Anakin Skywalker. He too was told of Qui-Gon's demise. He was doing everything he could to hold back his tears, but some had just begun to slide down his cheeks.

"Share your loss, we do, Obi-Wan," said the old Jedi.

"..."

Obi-Wan simply nodded as he lowered the body of his Master onto the altar. Just as he did, two men in white cloaks and silver masks walked up to the altar. Obi-Wan stepped aside and watched the guardians of the Jedi Temple perform the final act of Qui-Gon's funeral. Activating their own lightsabers, which were bright yellow, they lowered it on the straw and wood. Both began to burn, and the body soon followed.

As sunset fell on the Jedi Temple, the funeral service had concluded. Obi-Wan found himself being led to the meeting room of the Jedi Council by Master Yoda. Once they arrived, the Padawan was kneeling in front of the wise Master as he slowly walked back and forth.

"Confer on you, the level of Jedi Knight the Council does," said Master Yoda. Obi-Wan was surprised by the news, given the fact that he felt his training as a Jedi was complete. Nevertheless, he was prepared to take on the responsibilities of a Jedi Knight, as well as the responsibilities of a teacher and mentor to Anakin. He remembered his lessons with Qui-Gon well.

"But agree on you taking this boy as your Padawan learner, I do not."

Obi-Wan quickly turned to Yoda. "Qui-Gon believed in him."

"The Chosen One the boy may be; nevertheless, grave danger I fear in his training."

Obi-Wan stood up. "Master Yoda, I gave Qui-Gon my word. I will train Anakin. Without the approval of the Council if I must."

Yoda sighed as he stopped walking. "Qui-Gon's defiance I sense in you. Need that, you do not. Agree with you, the Council does. Your apprentice, Skywalker will be."

Obi-Wan smiled at the turn of events. Yoda was right; he didn't need Qui-Gon's defiance. Without the Jedi, he was hardly anything. Without them, he had no future. But now, he and Anakin had a future together.

But there was still one thing that threatened the future.

"Did the Council confer on what I told you earlier?" Obi-Wan asked.

"Doubt, there is not," Yoda said as he moved towards the window. "A Sith, this mysterious warrior was."

"Then that means... Salem has made another move against us. Does he know?"

"He does."

Obi-Wan joined Yoda by the window. "It was just one this time. By tomorrow, there may be more. We have to prepare."

"Gone, the time to prepare is. Others like you, there are."

"Like me?"

"Who have encountered a Sith."

Obi-Wan slightly gasped as he looked down. "How many?"

"Three reports this month, there have been."

"Only the Council knows, don't they?"

"And you. Death and destruction, all there has been. Crimes and attacks, only meant to draw us out, they are."

"...It's war, then."

"Begun, war has. Know about the Sith, the world must not. Keep peace across the Kingdoms, we must. More Knights, we must make."

"And we will." Obi-Wan turned to the door. "Starting with Anakin." He walked outside the Council room to see Anakin sitting on the ground.

"What will happen to me now?" the boy sadly asked.

Obi-Wan kneeled down to Anakin. "The Council has granted me permission to train you," he said. "You will be a Jedi, I promise. But there are some things I must share with you."

"Like what?"

"...What's your favorite fairy tale?"

Years passed.

And Obi-Wan was better than his word. He poured all of his heart and soul into training the newest member of the Jedi Order. Of course, there were a few bumps in the road where Anakin had to be patient and repeat his lessons. But in time, Anakin Skywalker proved himself to be an accomplished Jedi Knight.

And despite his success, Obi-Wan was troubled more than ever. The war the Jedi and the Sith started had grown worse.

As the Jedi devoted their resources to holding the line and preventing the death and despair Salem gave to the world, she and her Sith grew bolder and bolder. While her place was always in her solitary home, her minions did whatever they could to follow his example. Whether the first move to unite the world was made by Vacuo, Mistral, Vale, or even Atlas, the Sith found ways to prevent it.

And yet, not all hope was lost. The Jedi were mostly successful in not only repairing the damage the Sith made, but also in keeping Ozpin and Salem's powers secret. And in time, they began to bridge the gap between their world and all of Remnant. Since Atlas knew of their existence, the Council always contacted Coruscant in times of need, where all hope was seemingly lost.

The greatest of these triumphs came from Obi-Wan, and his impatient yet passionate apprentice, a grown Anakin Skywalker. Together, they traveled the world to seek out their enemy or repair their damages. While Obi-Wan found restoring peace to be easy, Anakin was more eager to take the fight to the Sith. To him, it was easy to see how powerless the Kingdoms were against them and how the Jedi seemed to be doing nothing other than holding the line.

At times, Anakin was able to use his Jedi teachings to calm down and wait for better opportunities to fight for peace to come. And once they did, he was relentless. He reached the point where he would recklessly walk through fire to save anyone and everyone he could, including his Master on a few occasions.

But his eagerness and impulsiveness weren't the only things that Obi-Wan had noticed about his apprentice. During their time together, Anakin was always insistent about going to the Kingdom of Atlas whenever he heard that the smallest of things was wrong. Aside from one time where they needed to go to Vale, Obi-Wan always travelled to Atlas with Anakin. And they would always answer to Councilwoman Padmé Naberrie, who not only followed in her mother's footsteps but later adopted the surname "Amidala."

To say that his friend had made a connection with the Councilwoman was an understatement. Anakin and Councilwoman Amidala were always seen together when the Jedi were in Atlas. And there were a few times when they snuck away from Obi-Wan when he was occupied. When he would find them later, the Jedi and politician would always spend the rest of their time together formally.

Perhaps a little too formally.

The truth was obvious to Obi-Wan, as well as the dangers their relationship presented to each other. The Sith and their master would stop at nothing to use something like this to their advantage. Which was why Obi-Wan made an effort to put it to an end.

This effort began one night when he was in Atlas with Anakin. One of the Atlesian Councilmen, Rush Clovis, had decided to pay the Jedi Council a discreet visit in order to see what progress against the Sith had been made. Their plan was to prepare during the night and leave in the morning.

On the eve of the departure, Anakin had left his room in the middle of the night. When he returned, the sun had begun to shine on the city in the sky. Anakin made his way to his bedroom to retrieve a few things.

"I've been looking for you."

Anakin quickly turned around to see Obi-Wan sitting in a chair behind him.

"Something wrong?" Anakin asked as he continued to go to his temporary room.

"You tell me," Obi-Wan said as he sat up.

Anakin brushed off the idea. "Not that I'm aware." He made his way to the desk in his room to pack a duffel bag he brought. His Master followed closely behind him.

"I spoke with Master Yoda earlier, mostly about last night. He feels that your judgements about Rush Clovis are... clouded."

Anakin put down the few belongings he brought with him. "I believe he can't be trusted," he spat, not bothering to look Obi-Wan in the eye.

"I understand. The rumors circulating his campaign were... striking." Truth be told, Obi-Wan had a couple of concerns about Clovis himself. Unfortunately, Admiral Silver was no longer among the living and couldn't give his input on the matter. But the newly appointed General of the Atlesian Military, a young and strong willed man Silver trusted with his life, assured Ozpin that Clovis could be trusted. So all Obi-Wan could do was pray for the best while expecting the worst.

But he wasn't finished with Anakin just yet.

"But there is more, isn't there?" the Jedi Master asked calmly. "I sense a deep anger in you by my simply saying his name."

Anakin continued to look down at his desk. "His idea to have Silver fight with us got him killed. We were responsible too."

"If by 'we,' you mean the rest of the Jedi, I cannot entirely agree with you. Admiral Silver risked his life for Atlas many times before he met us. The same can be said for Councilwoman Amidala. She's quite capable of taking care of herself."

"They had a relationship once. I simply feel she's vulnerable to her emotions."

This was where Obi-Wan decided to bring out the root of Anakin's anger. "She is? Or you?"

The Jedi Master could feel Anakin's anger rise once more, which was coming more and more naturally. "What... are you implying?" he asked.

"Anakin, I understand to a degree what is going on. You've met Satine before, I told you that I once harbored... feelings for her. It's not that we are not allowed to have these feelings, it's natural. Even so, they're not something we can afford to act on."

"Councilwoman Amidala and I are just friends," Anakin claimed, not wanting to probe any further into the situation.

Obi-Wan could tell that wasn't true, but that didn't stop him from making his point. "And friends you must remain. As a Jedi, it is essential you make the right choice, Anakin, for the Order."

"I... understand my responsibilities."

"Responsibilities that must be observed, whatever relationship develops between Clovis and Councilman Amidala."

"They have no relationship. It's simply business between them."

"Then we should have no problems, should we?"

"..."

The four of them left Atlas a half hour after this conversation. Anakin, having found a natural gift for flying, was the pilot of the airship. Also, he made sure to keep his distance from Padmé. While the Councilwoman made sure to do the same, Clovis saw an opportunity to reignite an old flame on the ship. But after a sudden turn by the airship caused him to bump his head, Clovis remained quiet on the rest of the voyage.

When they landed, Clovis attended to the business he was in charge of with the Jedi Council. Before Padmé could join him, Obi-Wan found an opportunity to have a similar conversation with her. She made the same claims as Anakin and told him not to worry about her.

"I'm sure you can handle yourself, Padmé," Obi-Wan said as he walked down the halls of the Jedi Temple. "But it's Anakin who's been known to let his emotions get the better of him."

"I can talk to him about Clovis if you like," she offered. "But there's nothing going on between me and Anakin. And even if there was, he's not going to lose control over this. He's better than that."

"He is. I'm only trying to look after Anakin's well-being."

"As am I. That's why he and I have been friends. A lot has changed since we first met him, but you know the old saying. The more things change, the more they stay the same."

"Indeed." Obi-Wan chuckled, since he was still able to see the young eager child Anakin was even though he's grown so much. "Just look after him, please. I'm afraid I have other duties that prevent me from being in his company at the moment."

"Of course. I'll come to you if I need anything."

Obi-Wan watched the Councilwoman walk down the hall by herself. A few moments later, two Temple guards began to escort her. Seeing that she was in good hands, Obi-Wan pressed a button on the door in front of him. The door opened to reveal Obi-Wan's personal quarters, which consisted of a small mat and a bed beside a window.

After removing his brown cloak and placing it on the bed, Obi-Wan kneeled on the mat and closed his eyes. In order to ease his mind about the latest occurrences with Anakin and Padmé, the Jedi Master believed meditation would help. His mind drifted to Anakin, mainly about all the time he had been his Padawan. The memories of the former slave growing into a courageous and passionate man made Obi-Wan smile and fill his heart with joy. It really was a shame that Qui-Gon couldn't see this miraculous transformation, but it was because of him that the change happened in the first place.

However, Obi-Wan could use his Master's wisdom at the moment. The situation with Anakin and the Councilwoman made Obi-Wan think about everything he felt when talking with Anakin. Everywhere he went, Obi-Wan was capable of sensing the emotions of others. And while he had sensed anger before, Anakin's earlier emotions had rattled Obi-Wan. He began to linger on whispers and rumors he had heard around the Temple, how other Jedi had been sensing similar things when they were with Anakin. While they said they didn't know the source of it all, the fact that he had been close with the Sith on the battlefield wasn't helping.

Obi-Wan always dismissed the rumors, saying that Anakin wasn't capable of something like this. However, recent events began to question his belief in that. Obi-Wan tried to dismiss the idea at the moment, mainly by thinking about what he said to Anakin and Padmé. As long as the feelings between them weren't acted upon, everything would be fine. And besides, Anakin had never acted without thinking for any reason other than fighting the Sith.

The Jedi had continued his mediation for hours before a soft bell chimed throughout the entire room. The Jedi recognized it as the sound of someone pressing the small doorbell on his door. Before he could invite the person on the other side of the door to enter, the bell rang again. Obi-Wan opened his eyes and stared at the door, only to hear two more chimes ring out. But these ones were much faster, more frantic. It was as if the person on the other side was in danger and looking for any kind of help.

Obi-Wan stood up and walked over. "Anakin, Anakin!" he said as he opened the door. "I heard the first time, there's no need to-"

"Obi-Wan!"

The Jedi felt a pair of arms wrap around his waist and heard whimpers in his chest. Looking down, Obi-Wan saw that the visitor wasn't Anakin, but Councilwoman Amidala.

"Padmé?" Obi-Wan asked in confusion. When the woman looked up at him, all he could see on her face was fear. "Wh-What's the matter?"

"You were right! You were right about Anakin!"

"Anakin? What's happened?"

Padmé took Obi-Wan's hand and followed her down the halls of the Temple. After going through a few rooms, the two found themselves in the presence of Master Yoda, who was standing over someone who looked incredibly hurt.

"Master Yoda?" Obi-Wan addressed his mentor. "What's going on? Who is that?"

"Its Clovis," Padmé explained. "He was attacked."

"What? Are you alright?"

"Im fine."

Obi-Wan turned back to Yoda. "And the Councilman?"

"Survive his injuries, he will," Yoda assured the fellow Jedi. "Almost healed, he is. But to make him forget what has happened, wise it would be."

"But then we won't know how this happened!" Obi-Wan protested. "We wont know if..." The Jedi began to remember what it was that Padmé had said before he came here, how he was right about Anakin. Remembering the talk he had with the Councilwoman made Obi-Wan put two and two together. Padmé confirmed these thoughts, claiming that an argument between the two led to a violent confrontation. The worst part was that Anakin didn't hold back when Clovis yielded.

But the truth was too much to bear. There was no way Obi-Wan could fathom the idea of Anakin hurting someone like this, especially a Councilman of all people. And while he hadn't heard great things about Clovis, nothing he could have done would warrant such reckless behavior.

And yet, Padmé's apparent fear only confirmed that the idea was the only possibility. And it also meant that Anakin needed to be dealt with sooner than later.

Obi-Wan didn't have the heart to confront Anakin about the ordeal. When he approached his Padawan's room, all he could feel was anger and despair. It was almost as if Anakin was despising himself for doing what he did while also feeling angry at the rest of the world. So Obi-Wan decided to wait until the next meeting with the Jedi Council before speaking to him.

Obi-Wan remembered that meeting as if it were yesterday. All anyone truly wanted to discuss was Anakin. Each member of the Council was saying the same thing, how Anakin's growing strength could lead him to the dark side of the Force. And each Jedi had at least one personal experience with Anakin, each of them shared the feelings of anger and hate that seemed to consume the young Knight's soul. Obi-Wan simply sat in contempt and disbelief at the fact that this had turned into a wild witch hunt surrounding Anakin.

At the same time, however, Obi-Wan hated himself for not seeing this sooner. He could have prevented the violent beating Councilman Clovis had received, and he could have done more to keep Anakin at bay. But Obi-Wan knew that despite his attempts to be disciplinary and decisive, he had failed to control Anakin's emotions. All that the Jedi Master knew now was that he would do whatever it took to prevent this from happening again, to prevent Anakin from falling deeper into the dark side.

And his first opportunity came when one of the Council members called upon him.

"You've been awfully quiet, Master Kenobi," said Mace Windu, who was seated further away from Obi-Wan. "Have you no say in this matter?"

Obi-Wan cleared his throat before speaking again. "I do, actually. And I say this is rather getting out of hand. I know Anakin, he's too strong to let the dark side overcome him."

"I disagree," said Master Windu, who was one of the lead opposers of Anakin being a member of the Jedi Order. "Skywalker's actions have lost a great deal of trust in the Council. Not just with Clovis, but the missions abroad we shared with him."

"There's a great disturbance in him," Master Gallia said.

"His strength with the Force has weakened his emotional restraint," said Master Fisto.

"And what about the voyage he made to his old home?" Master Mundi asked. "If I recall correctly, he accompanied Councilwoman Amidala to meet with the Vacuo Council. When they returned, all I sensed was darkness."

"Sensed the feelings as well, I have," said Master Yoda.

"I don't trust him," Master Windu said, for what felt like the millionth time.

"Is he not the Chosen One?" Obi-Wan asked. "Is he not destined to bring balance to the Force?"

"..."

All around him was silence. No Master spoke in defense of this claim, which caused Obi-Wan to feel a great deal of shame in the Council. Not because they didn't agree with him, but because they seemed to feel that Qui-Gon had been wrong all these years. And if that were the case, then what did he die for?

"Ignore all he has done for the Jedi, we cannot," said Master Yoda. "Hope for Skywalker, there may be. But earn it, he must. As well as faith in the Council."

Obi-Wan was desperate to keep Anakin a member of the Jedi Order. And in his desperation, an idea came to him. The idea had worked on other Jedi before, and there was a chance it could work now. "Masters, would you allow Anakin to perform the Barash Vow?"

"..."

The idea made the Jedi hold off on any more judgements they had for Anakin. Everyone in the room knew about the Barash Vow, an oath taken by Jedi who completely refrained from all activities related to the Jedi Order as a form of penitence, disengaging from anything but the Force itself. This led to some Jedi being able to re-focus on the Force and be better than they were before. Which was what Obi-Wan was hoping for Anakin.

"Masters, the Vow may show you what Master Qui-Gon believed all these years," Obi-Wan said, feeing that the silence had gone on for long enough. "Anakin has spent too much time fighting this war and even more time connecting with the outside world. He can redeem his mistakes, he just needs the opportunity."

Feeing a sense of hope for the boy, Master Yoda decided that now was the best time to see who agreed with Obi-Wan. "In favor of this, who is?" he asked as he raised his hand. More Jedi followed, with over half the room joining Master Yoda. "Against?" he asked calmly. Master Windu was the first to raise his hand, but the Jedi who joined him were outvoted.

Obi-Wan sighed in relief at the second chance Anakin had received. However, he didn't have the heart to tell him that he would be alone throughout the entire time. Each Jedi who took the Vow had cut off contact with anyone for different amounts of time, the longest being two years. He knew Anakin wouldn't like the idea, being forced into solitude for an indefinite amount of time. But Obi-Wan also knew that it was his only chance at redemption.

Before Anakin would be told of the news, the Council ordered Obi-Wan to travel to Atlas. Master Yoda had promised to keep the Atlesian Council informed of what happened to Anakin. While the majority of them were pleased to hear that the situation was being dealt swiftly, one member was discouraged to hear of Anakin's banishment. And all Obi-Wan could do was explain it in further detail once they were alone.

"Padmé, I need you to understand that this was the best course of action," Obi-Wan said to the distraught Councilwoman. "Anakin is in danger."

"From the Sith?" Padmé asked, more than worried about the situation. Despite her initial shock and appalled feelings at his actions towards Clovis, she knew there was something very wrong with Anakin.

"From himself." Obi-Wan sat down. "The Jedi Council fears that... Anakin is falling to the dark side."

"You're wrong!" Padmé didn't join Obi-Wan, she stood over him instead. "How can you say that?"

"You haven't seen Anakin as often as I, Padmé. As often as the rest of the Jedi. They have all sensed a new hardness to him, one that strays from the Jedi way."

"But... not Anakin! He's better than that!"

"Better than beating Councilman Clovis?"

"..."

Padmé finally sat down next to Obi-Wan, willing to listen to the rest of the plan. "This vow... it's worked before?" she asked.

"With many Jedi," Obi-Wan promised.

"How long... until he'll be done?"

"I don't know. It's taken years for other-"

"Years?" Padmé quickly looked back to Obi-Wan. "I can't... I can't see him again for years?"

"It's possible. But... I thought you didn't want to talk to him again."

"Not right now, no. But..." Padmé looked down at the floor. "You wouldn't understand. You can go now."

"Padmé, if there's anything you need-"

"I need you to leave."

"..."

With a heavy heart, Obi-Wan stood up and made his way out of the room. As he walked towards the door, he knew there was one other thing he needed to say. It was something he sensed when he first saw Padmé, something he had been pondering while explaining Anakin's situation to her. He didn't know what consequences would arise, but he had to know one last thing.

"Anakin is the father... isn't he?"

"..."

Padmé had spent enough time with Obi-Wan to know that nothing ever got past him. She had only found out she was pregnant a few days ago and was able to hide the fact from the rest of the Council. Seeing that her secret was out, the Councilwoman didn't bother to cover up anything anymore.

"I'm so sorry."

When Obi-Wan made his return to the island, he was prepared to talk to Anakin one last time. He knew that a reminder about his relationship with the Councilwoman was out of the question, and that being unable to see her would cause more unwarranted anger. So instead, Obi-Wan decided to have a simple heart-to-heart, which may have been the best course of action from the very beginning.

As he approached his friend's room, Obi-Wan was prepared to feel the same feelings of anger and sadness that he felt earlier. However, this time was different. Obi-Wan didn't feel any of those feelings.

He sensed nothing at all.

Obi-Wan dismissed the common courtesy to ring the bell on the door, he simply opened it. When he looked inside, all that there was to see was darkness. The room was empty, save for the bed and mat on the ground. Anakin was gone.

"You... just missed him," said a Temple guard. He had previously witnessed Anakin's departure, a rather hasty one.

"..."

"I was ordered to escort Skywalker around the Temple. I stood outside the Council room while he was told everything."

"..."

"Did he... mention me?" Obi-Wan sadly asked, not bothering to turn around.

The guard cleared his throat before replying. "He wanted to know if you knew about the Barash Vow. Master Windu said it was... your idea."

"Anything else?"

"No, Master. He was... silent after the meeting. He left without a word."

"..."

The guard left Obi-Wan to his thoughts, which were filled with nothing but pain. If he had enough time, he would have explained his thoughts to Anakin and support him any way he could. But that chance was gone now, and Obi-Wan could only imagine how he must have felt when he left the Temple. Despite these feelings, Obi-Wan only had one regret.

"I didn't even say goodbye."

Nine months had passed since Anakin had begun the Barash Vow. And it was perhaps the most stressful time of Obi-Wan's life. He had stuck to his apprentice like glue ever since they first came to Coruscant, and his departed presence left a gap too large for anything to fill.

Obi-Wan had tried countless times to fill that hole through meditation, reading in the Jedi Archives, and by doing his duty to the people of Remnant. And yet, all that he accomplished was miss Anakin even more.

Knowing that he couldn't let his feelings go by himself, Obi-Wan did the next best thing. He paid a visit to an old friend.

The trip he took to a cliff just outside the city of Vale wasn't very long, and neither was the elevator ride to the highest room of a tall tower. That was where Obi-Wan found a slightly older man talking to a young blonde woman.

"Thank you for your time, Ms. Goodwitch," the man said as he stood up with an extended hand. "Today has been very enlightening."

"The feeling is more than mutual, Headmaster," the woman said as she shook his hand. "Should I expect to hear back soon?"

"It should be no more than a week. I have one more interview to conduct, but I have a good feeling to inform them the position has already been filled." The man chuckled as he looked past his present company to see Obi-Wan. The woman turned around as well to see the same sight.

"Well... this is a little awkward," she said as she rubbed the back of her head.

The old man picked up a cane off his desk and moved to Obi-Wan while laughing once more. "No, no, Ms. Goodwitch. This is an old friend of mine, he's not here for the job."

"Oh." The woman stopped rubbing her head and extended a hand. "Well, it seems that a friend of Professor Ozpin might be a friend of mine. I'm Glynda Goodwitch."

"Obi-Wan Kenobi," the Jedi Master said as he introduced himself. "And I can say the same to you."

"Wow. That's... quite the name."

Professor Ozpin smiled as he put a hand on Obi-Wan's shoulder. "I thought the same thing when we first met. I hope you don't mind if I don't show you the way out."

"Oh, of course not. This will give me the chance to jog my memory of the school grounds." Ms. Goodwitch walked towards the elevator and pressed the button. "Good day." With that, Glynda Goodwitch took the elevator out of Beacon Tower's highest room, leaving the two gentlemen to catch up.

"A new professor, hm?" Obi-Wan asked. "She has some big shoes to fill, if she's taking William's position."

"Indeed," Ozpin agreed as he moved back to his desk. Taking a teapot off the glass surface, the Headmaster of Beacon Academy poured a hot brown liquid into a mug. "But I have no doubt William's time as a Combat Instructor will continue to inspire the new students." Handing the mug over to the Jedi, Ozpin poured himself a drink. "Was I correct in saying that you don't wish to apply for the position?"

"Oh, yes. I already have my hands full with-" Obi-Wan stopped talking just before he could utter Anakin's name. The reason for his visit came back to the Jedi as he sat where Glynda Goodwitch once sat.

"I heard about the Council's most recent gathering," Ozpin said as he took a sip of his drink. "I also heard the decision they were forced to make was... unanimous. Is that true?"

"It is." Obi-Wan took a drink, but the hot liquid failed to warm his spirits. "I believe in the Barash Vow. The solitude and Force can guide Anakin down the right path. The Council wouldn't have made that decision if they didn't think it was for the best."

Ozpin took another sip before asking a question. "Why does it seem like I am not the one you're trying to convince?"

Obi-Wan lowered his head. "...You're not. I just... I have no idea how Anakin is doing, what he must be thinking right now. He may still hold ill will against me, but I don't blame him. I practically pushed him away."

Ozpin didn't bother to voice his feelings just yet. Instead, he decided to offer an ear to a man who needed to voice his concerns.

"All these years, he's been like a brother to me. He's been there for me through every up and down this war has to offer. And this is how I repay him?"

Ozpin decided to speak now. "Anakin was always one of the more immature Jedi. In time, he'll see that you and the Council didn't bear any bad will towards him. You only did what you thought was best."

"But that hasn't been good enough." Obi-Wan stood up and watched the sunset from the office window. "I've done what I thought was best, what my Master would have done if he were in my place. Qui-Gon knew how to train Anakin, he had a plan before he died, I just know it. But now, I may have gone against that plan." Obi-Wan looked down at the reflection in the mug. "I'm... not him, Oz."

"You're right."

Obi-Wan turned back to see Ozpin still in his chair, but staring at him. "When you've been training Anakin, you've been trying to hold onto a false perception of yourself," the Headmaster said calmly. "You are not Qui-Gon, and you should not be Qui-Gon." Ozpin stood up with a smile and extended his palm. "You... are Obi-Wan Kenobi."

"..."

The Jedi looked out the window once more, the truth Ozpin shared running across his mind. To say that he was right would be an understatement, and Obi-Wan finally knew what his big mistake was; Anakin needed Obi-Wan, not Qui-Gon.

"So tell me," Ozpin began. "Who is Obi-Wan Kenobi to Anakin?"

Obi-Wan smiled and nodded. "A friend," he replied.

"Which is what he may need right now. Not solitude, not the Force. Anything is possible when you have the right people there to support you."

"But I don't know where the Council has sent Anakin. I don't know where to look"

Ozpin removed his Scroll from his pocket and pressed a few keys on it. "The Jedi Council saw fit not to tell you, yes. And I promised not to... tell you." Ozpin moved his screen to Obi-Wan to show coordinates to an island off the coast of Vale. With a wink, he said one last thing. "So I'm afraid I can't tell you."

"I understand," Obi-Wan said with a smile. Quickly walking towards the elevator, Obi-Wan said one last thing. "Thank you."

Ozpin nodded as he watched Obi-Wan depart from Beacon Tower. And although he could not see from the window, he had a good feeling Obi-Wan was hurrying back to the airship he came from and heading straight to the island he showed on his Scroll.

Obi-Wan landed his ship in the middle of the woods, right where a small clearing was. As he walked through the woods, the Jedi could only imagine what reaction the Council would have if they ever found out what he did. There would be punishment, no doubt. In fact, interfering with a sacred ritual may result in expulsion.

However, Obi-Wan didn't care. He knew that thinking about the Jedi or Qui-Gon in order to help Anakin was the wrong way to go about this. Now was the time for an honest conversation between friends. If that meant he couldn't ignore the relationship Anakin had with Padmé anymore, then Obi-Wan was prepared to do so.

The Jedi was snapped back to reality when he came across a steep hill after leaving the woods. In front of him was a figure wearing a long cloak. The figure's back was turned towards the unexpected visitor, gazing upon the sunset.

Obi-Wan's heart was filled with joy at the sight, he had no doubt in his mind that the figure before him was Anakin. The surprise to see someone after so long would catch mostly anyone off guard, but Obi-Wan's mind was more than clear. His will had the potential to change the world, but he first had to change one person. So he slowly walked over to the cloaked figure and reached out.

"Anakin... I-"

The cloak fell to the ground as soon as Obi-Wan touched it.

The confused Jedi looked around the cliff side, seeing nothing else before him. But there had to be someone with him in order to pull off the feat of leaving a cloak floating in the air.

"Anakin?" he called out

"..."

"...Anakin?"

"..."

"Anak-!"

Obi-Wan was suddenly struck by pure, painful energy. Electric jolts ran up and down his body as he screamed in agony. The pain was so intense that Obi-Wan couldn't even activate his Aura or try to defend himself. Instead, the Jedi Master weakly fell to the ground as the electricity disappeared.

Just as he tried to get back up, more lightning struck his back. This attack lasted for almost an entire minute before it disappeared once more. The lightning took away all of Obi-Wan's energy and he could feel himself falling unconscious. The last thing he saw before passing out were two shadowy figures standing over him.

As a dim light began to fill Obi-Wan's vision, the muffled sounds of screeching Grimm and explosions filled his ears. As his eyes opened wider, the sounds became louder. The tired Jedi was somewhere in the midst of battle, but he did not know where the battle was taking place. And as the sounds grew clearer, the voices of a man and a woman became audible.

"Do you hear it, Master? Her Grace's plan has unfolded naturally."

"Sso galas. Tave qorit kash fe've." (At last. The end is near.)

"The time is now. When do we join our brethren?"

"Veek, Marr. Dabar, mes sekleti rodyti sis Jidai su tave saarai." (Soon, Marr. Now, we shall present this Jedi with the truth.)

Obi-Wan's vision became much clearer now, and he was able to see that he was laying on soft sand. As he tried to get up, the Jedi felt a strong weight on his back that prevented him from standing up. The only part of his body that he was able to move was his head, which caused him to see numerous Grimm running in front of him. In the middle of the packs were red lights running with them. Once he realized that the Sith were leading Grimm into battle, Obi-Wan tried harder to get up. But all he could do was lay on the ground and watch another dark figure approach him. This figure, however, had one feature that stood out: a white and red mask.

"Labintias, Jidai Meistras," the Dark Lord said with a laugh. (Greetings, Jedi Master.)

"You!" Obi-Wan said with widened eyes. He had met this Sith before, a few years after the secret war began. Following a hunch he had, Obi-Wan turned his head to catch a glimpse of another figure in a black cloak standing behind him. This Sith had another feature that stood out as well: a small scarlet cloak over her eyes, just above her mouth. The appearances of his captors made Obi-Wan see that he was in the presence of Nihilus and his blind apprentice, Visas Marr.

"Yes. I give you my regards as well, Jedi," said the blind apprentice of Nihilus. "And welcome home."

"...Home?" Obi-Wan asked in confusion.

Just as he asked his question, Nihilus raised his right hand. Obi-Wan felt himself rise from the sand and float in the air. Once again, he was unable to move his body. Nihilus and his apprentice began to walk up the shore, following the Grimm while Obi-Wan could do nothing but follow.

"Tapti' ir zuir," said the Dark Lord. (Come and see.)

The duo stopped walking once they reached the top of a hill. Once Obi-Wan floated closer to them, the Sith moved to the side. And they also broke his heart.

The first thing the Jedi Master could see was fire. It was in the distance, but very noticeable. The other sights that were just as noticeable were the small flashes of light in the distance. Red seemed to be clashing with green and blue, along with some yellow.

Obi-Wan had seen something like that before. He had livedthrough it before. It was the sight of numerous battles between Jedi Knights and Sith. And just behind the battles was the Jedi Temple, with smoke escaping the windows and fire finding its way towards the roof.

"No," Obi-Wan said as he felt himself fall to the ground. "No!" Quickly looking back to the Sith, he made a strong accusation. "This... This is some sort of trick! You're perverting the Force with a sick vision."

"This is no joke," Marr replied, smiling under her cloak. "This is the fabled island of Coruscant, and those are your brothers and sisters."

"But the Sith can't set foot here! We've protected Coruscant long enough to know that this is impossible!"

"Kad stai mes aras," Nihilus said as he turned around and pointed to the ocean. "Ir stai aras edoui j'us zinot kovinis nuo mazo letas!" (But here we are. And here are those you have fought for so long!)

Obi-Wan's jaw dropped at the sight of two Leviathans blasting the sandy shore with fire from their mouths and a Wyvern dropping Grimm water just beyond the fire.

Now knowing that the sights before him were all too real, Obi-Wan knew that he needed a plan. He knew that he would need the strength of the Jedi Council, even the whole Jedi Order, to defend his home. Seeing that his lightsaber hilt was attached to Nihilus' waist, Obi-Wan closed his eyes as the Sith began to monologue in his own language. Gathering all the strength and energy he could muster, Obi-Wan summoned his hilt back to his palm while quickly running away from the distracted Sith, the Force giving him a rush of speed.

Visas Marr saw what had just happened and was ready to give chase. "Do we kill him now, Master?" she asked, ready to spill the blood of a Jedi Master across the ground.

"Nie," Nihilus said as he began to walk towards the Temple. "Tegu mus ziur kam tave Force uud nutarijas nuo jis." (No. Let us see what the Force has decided for him.)

Obi-Wan ran past his fellow Jedi and their enemies, making his way towards the Jedi Temple. His current goal was to find the Council and see what they could do to stop the invasion. Naturally, he had to fight past any Sith that tried to stop him. Fortunately, Obi-Wan's speed outmatched the powerful strikes each Sith tried to send to him.

As Obi-Wan ran down the halls of the Jedi Temple, watching green and blue light collide into red, he had a million thoughts at once. Even though it didn't matter at this point, he had no idea how the Sith had managed to invade Coruscant. The idea of someone in the Kingdom of Atlas informing Salem didn't seem unlikely, given that her servants were almost everywhere and nowhere at the same time.

Despite that, it was clear to Obi-Wan that this was an endgame for the Sith. If not, there wouldn't be so many Grimm. And where there were Grimm like this... Salem wasn't too far behind. Perhaps she was on the shore, controlling the Leviathans and the Wyvern. Maybe if he went looking for her instead of Master Yoda, he could do something to stop her control, stop her from-

*BAM*

A strike on his chest caused Obi-Wan to fly off the balcony and fall to the lower level of the temple's halls. Fortunately, his Aura was still a part of him and there was no damage to his body. This allowed him to see a rock falling down towards him, most likely what hit him in the first place. So Obi-Wan dodged the object and watched it break into multiple stones. He also stood and watched as a hooded figure landed right in front of him.

Right away, Obi-Wan could tell that this figure was strange. His face was hidden behind the shadow of the hood, but the rage he held in his heart was much less hidden. While Obi-Wan had never seen this Sith before, there was something about his presence that felt... familiar.

But that would have to wait, as the Sith activated a red blade and jumped towards Obi-Wan. With a blue blade in hand, the Jedi blocked each strike as he walked backwards. Each strike the masked Sith dealt was full of rage and fury, making them more powerful than ever.

Before Obi-Wan could do anything else, a black mist swarmed above his head. The mist flew in front of him, blocking him from the Sith. Suddenly, the mist took form, revealing a woman in a black dress and pale white skin. A smile formed on her lips as she saw the Jedi raise his blade.

"Let's see now," Salem said as she scanned the man in front of her. "A blue lightsaber, a courageous spirit, and someone who just drove through my Sith as if they were nothing. You must be... Obi-Wan Kenobi."

Obi-Wan gasped at the sound of his name, but didn't falter. Salem, on the other hand, simply smiled even more. "Yes, I know who you are. And what you've done."

"I can say the same about you, Salem," Obi-Wan spat back.

"I'm not surprised. You, on the other hand, look like you've just seen a ghost."

"..."

"I understand. Your home was well hidden and protected, even I shouldn't have broken through the defenses."

"No... you shouldn't have." In order to deal with the stress he was feeling by meeting Remnant's greatest threat, Obi-Wan did what came naturally to him; he began to talk without a care in the world. "It took you long enough."

Salem's grin disappeared at the sound of the Jedi's sarcasm. "You think yourself humorous?" she asked.

"No, no, my dear. I know I am."

"Not for much longer. By next sunrise, I'm sure nobody will remember you even existed. You and your kind."

Obi-Wan began to pace around Salem, forming a circle with her. "I could say the same about you." Obi-Wan looked around at the sight of Grimm being killed and Sith having trouble holding their own. "Ignorantly stepping into the lion's den is never a fond strategy."

"Not when the lion is tamed, and all of its capabilities are avoided." It was obvious that Salem was referring to the island and the Temple's defenses, that the Sith had somehow slipped past them or destroyed them, seemingly without much effort. "You and I both know the reality of this situation, that the time of the Jedi is finally over. You and your friends have lost."

"Ah, and I should be taking lessons from someone who knows so much about friends."

Salem scoffed as she walked past the Sith she prevented from attacking Obi-Wan any further. "There is one thing I know about friends, Jedi. The more you love them, the more it hurts when they go." With a smirk, Salem took hold of the Sith's hood. "Allow me to demonstrate." With a small tug, Salem removed the Sith's hood.

That was when Obi-Wan's entire world crumbled before his eyes.

It all made sense now. Obi-Wan had finally figured out how Salem was able to get past all of Coruscant's defenses. How the Sith managed to know almost everything about the Temple's entrances and exits. And how they were two steps ahead of everyone else.

For the Sith standing before him was none other than Anakin Skywalker. And he was looking at Obi-Wan in complete disgust, with dark yellow eyes. Eyes that were filled with the fire of hate.

"...Anakin," Obi-Wan whispered. Not only did the sight of his Padawan surprise the Jedi Master, but the fact that he was here of his own free will. Obi-Wan couldn't sense any trace of Magic or the Force being used on Anakin, despite the distortion of his eyes. So all the heartbroken man could do was utter a question.

"...Why?"

"What was that?" Salem asked. "I don't think we heard you."

"She's right... 'Master,'" Anakin said as clear as day.

Obi-Wan began to feel tears fall from his eyes. "After everything... I gave you a home. You were like my brother! Why?!"

Anakin removed his cloak and pointed at Obi-Wan. "You turned her against me!" he screamed.

"...Her?"

Obi-Wan looked back to Salem, who was preparing to leave her newest follower to deal with the Jedi. Seeing that neither of them held any ill will towards each other, Obi-Wan had an idea as to who Anakin was talking about. "You have done that yourself!" he argued, remembering his talk with Padmé.

Anakin didn't listen, he instead began to pace around Obi-Wan. "You will not take her from me!"

"Your anger and lust for power have already done that." Obi-Wan pointed at Salem this time. "You have allowed this witch to twist your mind... until now you have become the very thing you swore to destroy." As he continued to point at Salem, Obi-Wan could have sworn that he saw the witch roll her eyes when he said his final word.

"Don't lecture me, Obi-Wan." Anakin looked away from his Master and towards the besieged Jedi Temple. "I see through the lies of the Jedi. I do not fear the dark side as you do. With the Jedi gone, I have brought peace, freedom, justice, and security to my new empire!"

Obi-Wan couldn't believe what he was hearing. "Your new empire?" he asked dubiously. He was wise enough to know that Salem did not intend to create a new rule over the people of Remnant. The Grimm, perhaps, but not mankind. And if there were such a thing, it would not be a society where concepts such as freedom and justice would exist. Unfortunately, Anakin was too far gone to see past Salem's lies.

But not entirely gone.

"...Don't make me kill you," Anakin demanded, almost sounding like a plea for his Master to join him. While Obi-Wan wanted nothing more than to be at his friend's side once more, a future of fighting for Salem was entirely out of the question.

"Anakin, my allegiance is to the people of Remnant, to democracy!" Obi-Wan cried, making an effort to show his friend the reasons they fought together for many years. He thought, deep down, that maybe he could break whatever hold Salem had on Anakin.

But Salem wasn't going to let go of her newest addition to her collection slip from her grasp. "It seems Master Kenobi has made his point clear," she said to Anakin. "If he is not with us... then he is our enemy. You understand, yes?"

"Yes, my Master," Anakin said as he moved his lightsaber a little past his body, ready to attack once more.

"...Only a Sith deals in absolutes," Obi-Wan said as he made a similar stance. Even with his heavy heart, he knew that now wasn't the time to give up. "I... will do what I must."

Salem smiled again. "You will try." She turned to Anakin. "Finish him."

[Play 'Battle of the Heroes']

Anakin leapt into the air as he activated his lightsaber. Landing a few feet behind his former Master with a red blade in his hand, the fallen Jedi lunged at Obi-Wan with the speed of ten men. Despite the speed, Obi-Wan was able to block the strike with his own lightsaber. The sheer strength and tenacity of Anakin's strikes forced Obi-Wan to go on the defensive and back into the Temple. Each strike was deflected as Obi-Wan waited for Anakin to make a mistake, to provide the smallest opening.

This opening came when Obi-Wan pushed on his blade to knock Anakin off his stance rather than simply block the strike. The strikes from Obi-Wan came naturally to him as he attempted to disarm his foe.

A lunge at the arm.

Blocked.

A swift slice at the torso.

Evaded.

Sending the very end of the blade to the face to disorient Anakin.

Missed and provided Anakin a chance to not only kick the lightsaber out of his hand, but to also grab Obi-Wan's throat to apply pressure.

The lack of air and the feeling of the ironlike grip applied with the Force made Obi-Wan slowly fall to the ground. Rather than sending his new blade into his old friend's chest, Anakin simply applied more pressure and felt the life escape from Obi-Wan's body. However, Obi-Wan mustered all the energy he could to kick Anakin back. Anakin lost his grip and fell forward, allowing Obi-Wan to use the Force to retrieve his blade.

Anakin was ready to counterattack with a Force push to a weakened support beam, planning to dig Obi-Wan out of the rubble and finish him off. Obi-Wan had planned to attack Anakin the same way, causing their hands to meet just inches away as they each tried to push the other back. Eventually, the attack worked, but each combatant slid on the floor. Ironically, the failed attacks saved their lives, as the ceiling above them came crashing down.

Obi-Wan was the first to move the dust out of his vision. Once he did, the Jedi Master saw a deep trench in the floor. And out of that trench came smoke and Master Gallia.

"I suppose that's one way to deal with a Wyvern," the tired Master said as she looked to the side. "Obi-Wan! Are you hurt?"

"...No," Obi-Wan said. "Adi... it was Anakin. He's here."

"Anakin? What are you-?"

*SSSSSS*

A red blade in her chest caused Master Adi Gallia to scream and fall to the floor, dead as a doornail. Obi-Wan silently mourned her death as he looked at his former Padawan holding his lightsaber.

"I have failed you Anakin," Obi-Wan said softly. "I have failed you."

"I should have known it was all a lie!" Anakin screamed. "That everything the Jedi stands for is just an empty promise!"

"Anakin, Salem and anyone who follows her are evil!"

"From my point of view, the Jedi are evil!"

Obi-Wan activated his lightsaber once again. "Well then you are lost!" Swinging his blade again, Obi-Wan watched Anakin leap back to avoid the strike. Quickly regaining his balance when he landed too close to the trench, Anakin defended himself against Obi-Wan's strikes.

After another minute of fighting, Anakin could see that his skills were evenly matched with Obi-Wan. He needed some form of advantage, anything to make the Jedi slip up. Suddenly, more pieces of the ceiling began to fall. The sight large stones falling down gave Anakin the idea to change the field of battle. So he leapt up and landed on a falling stone.

Obi-Wan followed him and landed on a smaller stone, close to the one Anakin was one. After trading more blows, Obi-Wan leapt off his rock to avoid a larger one from destroying it. Anakin was forced to do the same and found himself on the defensive.

The events unfolded again and again, until Anakin made his final jump. Obi-Wan made another leap, but he failed to notice a piece of the ceiling come into his path. Anakin had seen the rock and used it as a bluff for Obi-Wan, and it worked perfectly. The Jedi quickly retracted his Aura from his lightsaber to protect himself during the fall, but it broke once he hit the ground.

Anakin leapt back to the ground, smaller rocks falling with him. Turning off the blade and lowering his lightsaber, Anakin grabbed Obi-Wan once again and applied pressure to his throat.

"Do you feel it, my Master?" he asked. "This is what you've been holding back, for over ten years!"

"An... Anakin..." Obi-Wan weakly choked out.

"I sacrificed everything to be like you! My mother, my freedom, you even wanted me to give up my emotions! And for what?! For this?!" Anakin looked around the ruins of the temple. "It's over, Obi-Wan. I won't let you hold me back anymore."

"Pa... Padmé..."

"She and I will rule the world. Make things the way we want."

"Wouldn't... want... this..."

"How would you know?!" Anakin impulsively threw Obi-Wan to the floor. "You don't know a thing about us, or how you made her push me away!" He then kicked his former Master in the gut. "Maybe... I can teach you something, Obi-Wan. Once we pay Satine a visit, I'll make sure you know how I feel."

Satine.

The mere mention of her name filled Obi-Wan with many emotions, the first one being fear. He knew that Anakin would stop at nothing to get his hands on her if he wanted to. And when he did, there would be nothing but suffering for her.

And it would all be Obi-Wan's fault.

But he couldn't have her death on his hands. If there was anyone he could save today, Obi-Wan would make sure he would save Satine. The sudden urge to protect an innocent life gave Obi-Wan new life, as he was able to slowly stand back up.

Anakin cursed himself for not realizing that the battle wasn't over now that he made his plans for Satine. So he activated his lightsaber once again and sent it towards Obi-Wan.

But the blade suddenly stopped in the air.

Obi-Wan was holding Anakin's wrist, preventing the blade from going any further. He could sense his former friend using the Force to strengthen the pressure he was putting on his blade. Which caused Obi-Wan to see that he needed to fight fire with fire. So he applied both the Force and his strength onto Anakin's wrist.

The pain wasn't something Anakin expected to feel. It was as if his hand was caught in a vice grip, he was even starting to lose blood circulation. Using his Aura to block the pain caused the lightsaber blade to disappear and Anakin to drop the metal cylinder.

Seeing a chance to end this fight once and for all, Obi-Wan let go of Anakin and used the Force to summon Master Gallia's lightsaber. Still containing her Aura, Obi-Wan was able to turn it on and send multiple strikes at Anakin. Each strike was stronger than the last, which caused Anakin to go on the defensive with only his Aura. He backed away with each strike, unable to do anything except defend himself.

Obi-Wan was too upset to care about hurting Anakin at this point. He knew that stopping him was a necessity, for the good of every innocent life the former Jedi planned to take. And once they stood close to the trench the fallen Wyvern had created, Obi-Wan made his final attack.

The last strike not only depleted Anakin's Aura, but it also severed his right hand from his body. The force from the attack also sent the former Jedi screaming and falling into the abyss. And Obi-Wan just stood where he was and listened to the screams, until nothing more... could be heard.

[End music]

When silence returned to the air around him, the reality of the situation dawned on the Jedi Master. Here was someone who dedicated his life to fulfilling the final wish of his Master, someone who loved the young boy like a brother. And here was someone who had just sent that boy flying into darkness without one of his limbs.

Obi-Wan dropped the lightsaber and fell to his knees. Tears began to pour down his cheeks as he realized how far gone everything was. The Temple was on the verge of ruin, as well as the island. There was no victory to be won here. Without the Chosen One, without the Jedi that Obi-Wan poured all of his faith into, there would be nothing left.

And it was all his fault.

Obi-Wan regretted all the times he never listened to Anakin, all the times he tried to control his anger. Was that where he went wrong? Was he so faithful in the ways of the Jedi that he ignored the obvious flaws in Anakin? And was it him that drove Anakin into Salem's arms?

"What... have I done?" Obi-Wan whispered to himself in resignation.

It was this resignation that made the Jedi's feelings of pain and sorrow overwhelm him to the point that he ignored a disturbance in the Force. Right behind him was a Sith Lord who hovered over the Jedi with sadistic glee. Armed with a red sword that pulsated like a human heart, the Sith swung his arm down to make the Jedi's suffering end.

But a green blade found its way into the Sith's chest, causing him to drop his own lightsaber and fall to the ground.

Obi-Wan finally decided to turn around. When he did, he made eye contact with none other than Master Yoda, whose eyes looked like they were peering into Obi-Wan's soul.

"Master Kenobi... much pain, I sense in you," he said with a frown.

"Master Yoda... it's Anakin," Obi-Wan replied, eyes still wet with salty tears. "He brought the Sith here, brought Salem here. We... I failed him."

Yoda looked down into the abyss, having a good feeling as to what exactly happened. He said nothing, as he could tell Obi-Wan needed more time to come to terms with the revelation.

"He was the Chosen One!" Obi-Wan screamed, not getting off the ground. "It was said he would destroy the Sith, not join them! Bring balance to the Force, not leave it in darkness!" Suddenly, he looked up and used the Force to sense what was happening on the island. All he could feel was death, darkness, and the absence of hope. "It's over, isn't it? Everything we've built, everything we've fought for?"

Yoda sighed as he turned around. "Lost much, we have. Young Skywalker, Coruscant, the Order... gone, they are." Yoda's heart ached with this truth, it was pointless to deny that there would be a recovery from this bold attack. The war was lost.

"Then... what do we do?" Obi-Wan asked. "Anakin was our last hope."

"No," Yoda said as he walked back inside. "There is another."

"What?" Obi-Wan shot up from the ground and rushed over to Yoda at unnatural speed. "Who?"

Yoda looked up at Obi-Wan when he stopped walking. "Myself."

"..."

The screeching of the Grimm, the screams of Jedi being cut down, and the sounds that engulfed Coruscant all faded away for Obi-Wan as he listened to the wisest Jedi on Remnant.

"Win this battle, the Jedi cannot. But a chance for the Sith to lose as well, there is."

"...How?"

"Strong in the Force, our home is. Strong enough for a Jedi like myself to connect to, it is. Use it against Salem and her followers, I will."

"What are you saying?"

"For the Sith, to use the Force as a weapon, easy it is. Fight fire with fire, now the time is. Go to the Temple, I will. Use the Force that connects to Coruscant. When it is done... survive, the Sith may not."

Obi-Wan couldn't believe what he was hearing. Here was someone who dedicated himself to the ways of the Jedi Order, and he was ready to perform an unforgivable act. He was going to sacrifice everything he believed in to give the world a fighting chance, to remove a powerful enemy from the playing field. Even though he couldn't believe it, Obi-Wan prepared himself to argue with Yoda.

"Master, what you're going to do, it's... it's not the Jedi way," Obi-Wan protested. "You can't-"

"Survive, I may not," Yoda stated. "Share this failure, I do. And prepared to make this right, I am. Even if my life, the cost is."

Obi-Wan began to cry again. "Let me take your place. I can wait long enough for you and any other surviving Jedi to escape."

"Strong enough to do this, you are not. Survive, and find our ancestor, you must. Warned other Jedi, I have already done. Find them, and carry our knowledge to future generations." Yoda began to walk again, prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice.

This time, Obi-Wan wasn't ready to argue any further. He knew there was nothing that he could say or do to stop his plan. All he could do was make sure this noble sacrifice wouldn't be in vain.

"...May the Force be with you... Master."

With that, Obi-Wan began to run. His first idea was to find a secret passage in the Archives, one that he was sure that Anakin didn't know about. It may have been another secret the Council kept from him, but now it would prove useful to Obi-Wan. And quite possibly, any other Jedi that survived.

Obi-Wan took the passage and found one small airship left. He remembered that there was indeed more than one when he last saw it, so it seemed other Jedi had escaped. And if he could get to it now, Obi-Wan knew that he could wait for other survivors.

But then, he felt a disturbance in the Force. It was unlike anything he had ever felt before, a pain that was unfamiliar to him. It was as if the sensation of agony was everywhere, all around him. The cave he was in, the water in the distance, and the ground around the ship were all crying out in absolute pain.

Ironically, it was this pain that saved Obi-Wan's life. It gave him a warning that Master Yoda's plan had gone underway, and soon it would come to fruition. Unfortunately, it meant the Jedi Master could stay no longer. So he quickly got onto the ship and took it off the ground. After a few seconds, the roof of the cave opened to reveal the starry night. Obi-Wan didn't have the time to check if the coast was clear, all he could do was take off into the open sky.

As the ground became smaller and smaller, Obi-Wan said a silent goodbye to the island of Coruscant. Just as he finished, he could feel the shockwave of a tremendous explosion, which almost caused him to lose altitude. But after the shockwave disappeared and the alarms became silent, Obi-Wan knew that it was all over. One way or another, the war was over for him. And he was left all alone.

But... perhaps not.

Obi-Wan had heard small talk of Jedi being away from Coruscant to fight in the war, it was possible that some remained after all. And that meant they all needed to know what happened to the island, whether it hurt or not.

So the Jedi Master adjusted his ship's communications to transmit a message to any and all surviving Jedi ships and communicating devices. With a deep breath, he pressed the recording button.

"This is Master Obi-Wan Kenobi. I regret to report that both our Jedi Order and our home have fallen, with the dark shadow of the Grimm rising to take their place. This message is a warning and a reminder for any surviving Jedi: trust in the Force. Do notreturn to the Temple. That time has passed, and our future is uncertain. Avoid Coruscant. Avoid detection. Be secret... but be strong. We will each be challenged: our trust, our faith, our friendships. But we must persevere and, in time, I believe a new hope will emerge. May the Force be with you always."

Present day

"Not long after that, Obi-Wan found Ozpin and continued helping him fight Salem," Cinder said. "And I think you all know the rest."

Everyone in the room didn't take their eyes off Cinder as she told her story. Ozpin knew it all too well, but this was news for Djarin and Qrow. They couldn't believe that all this time, there was a hidden world where Magic continued to exist, and how it drove people apart. And they both seemed to realize how love could be a very dangerous thing.

"Wow," Qrow said as he opened his flak again. "What a bummer story." He took a drink and closed it again.

"That's what I thought too," Cinder admitted. "It was so sad, hearing about the Jedi. But I wouldn't call it a complete tragedy." Cinder turned to Djarin and smiled. "Dad once took me to Mandalore, where I saw what was left after the Great War. I can imagine that Coruscant would look the same. But the Jedi and the Mandalorians aren't really that different."

Djarin began to smile under his helmet, as he had a good idea where Cinder was going with this.

"They knew what would happen, how things looked. But they still banded together and fought. And in the end... the Jedi and their ways still lived. I guess things and places can always be replaced. But people, their ideas... they're what really matter. The Way of the Mandalore and the Jedi teachings are still around today, and they gave me a reason to be who I am right now."

Ozpin stood up and looked to Cinder. "Well said, Cinder," he honestly noted. He then looked to Qrow and Djarin. "Both of your efforts and the fact you believe in me are more than I could ask for, more than what Salem's followers desire."

"That's what makes us different than her," said Qrow.

"And that's something I doubt she knows for herself," said Djarin.

Cinder smiled again, glad that she was able to share the lesson. "Thanks everyone," she said. "I'm glad that-" She suddenly stopped talking to let out a small yawn.

Djarin knew what to do at this point. "Alright," he said. "Bedtime." Cinder wordlessly agreed as she pulled her bedsheets and laid down.

As Qrow and Ozpin left the room, Djarin moved his chair closer to Cinder's bed. Sitting down, Djarin talked with her before she went to bed. "I'm glad you decided to share that story, Cinder," he said.

"It's really incredible, isn't it?" she asked as she began to lie down. "I mean, despite how the war ended, it goes to show that ideas can't die easily."

"You're right. And what happened to Coruscant was a lot like Mandalore. But that's not the only thing I saw."

"Really?" Cinder slightly sat up with a smile, curious to see what else Djarin learned. "Tell me."

Djarin didn't share Cinder's moderate enthusiasm. "Well, I think I'm finally having some parental instincts. Because..." Djarin removed his helmet and turned on his gauntlet's screen to slightly light up the room. "I'm getting the feeling that... something about the story is bothering you. Is it?"

Cinder's smile disappeared as she looked down, slightly away from Djarin. After a few seconds, Cinder made a confession. "Well... it's just that... I couldn't help but think about Mandalore when Obi-Wan told me his story."

"I know it's still bad to look at," Djarin said as he put a hand on her shoulder. "But you were right about-"

"Well, I'm... not really thinking about Mandalore right now."

Djarin was confused, but still held Cinder. "Then, what's wrong?"

"There's something else. Hearing the story made me see... made me see some things, see some... similarities... between Anakin and me."

"..."

Djarin thought back to the story. Anakin's slavery, his freedom, his fighting abilities, his anger, and his love... it was very easy to see things that Anakin had in common with Cinder. And it was easier to see why the idea upset Cinder.

"You think you're going to end up like him," Djarin said.

"...Right," Cinder admitted. "He worked hard to get where he was, just like I'm working hard to be a Maiden. But in the end, he threw it all away." Cinder looked up at Djarin. "I know why Obi-Wan didn't want you with me at Haven. He felt what happened to Anakin would happen to me. And now... it's easy to see that it might."

"So you feel you should be where Anakin was. With Salem."

"Not that I should be. That I will be."

Djarin was sad to hear Cinder say this. It was the first time she doubted herself since she came back home, and she seemed to have good reason. Djarin found the situation very easy to understand, easy to see why this was bothering her. But it was also easy for him to see that Cinder would never do what Anakin did. And he was about to explain why.

"I mean, how would you feel if I betrayed you?" Cinder asked. "If one day, we end up fighting each other because of me? Because I act on my-?"

Djarin suddenly cut Cinder off with a question of his own. "Cinder, why did you come with me?"

The Maiden titled her head. "What do you mean?"

"The night I came back for you, that night we left Atlas, I was planning on finding you a new home. I was thinking you would want a place better than the Glass Unicorn. But you came with me. Why did you do that?"

"Because... Because I asked to," Cinder remembered.

"And you told me Salem made you an offer, the day you were kidnapped. She wanted you to join her, to be her Maiden. When you found out I was alive, why did you come with me instead?"

"Because I wanted to."

"That's right. Because you chose to come with me." Djarin put a hand over Cinder's hand. "Cinder, did you know that when a Foundling is first brought to the Mandalorians, they can choose to stay or go?"

Cinder's eyes widened. "No, I... I didn't know that."

"When I was found, I was given that same choice. Nevarro wasn't far from my village, I could go there instead of staying with the Mandalorians. But I chose to stay. Just like you chose to stay with me, just like you chose to let me adopt you. And now..." Djarin moved aside and pointed to the door. "There's nothing stopping you from leaving right now. But here you are, about to stay with me again. Do you know what I'm saying?"

Cinder thought about all of Djarin's points, mainly how the idea of making a choice was involved. "So you're saying that I'm not being like Anakin right now?" she asked.

"I'm saying that you're choosing a different path. And I'm saying that's what matters. When we choose what we do, that choice makes us who we are. And right now, you're not making the same mistakes he did. And I have a feeling you won't."

Cinder closed her eyes and smiled. Just then, a tear fell down her right cheek. Being like Anakin was an idea that bothered her for a while, even while training with Obi-Wan. But now, this reassurance was all she needed, as well as proof that she wouldn't be like him in the future.

With her new found happiness, Cinder leaned up and kissed Djarin's cheek. "You always know what to say to make me feel better. Thank you, Dad."

Djarin smiled as he gently stroked Cinder's head. "You're welcome, Cinder." Standing up, Djarin moved the chair and moved to his bed. "Good night."

Before Djarin could lay down, Cinder's voice called out to him. "Dad?" Turning around, Djarin listened to Cinder once again. "You've been helping me a lot, ever since we met. I meant what I said, when I told you that I haven't done anything to pay you back. So, no matter what, I want you to tell me when I can help you, when I can be there for you. Can you do that?"

Djarin smiled. "You're already doing it," he said. "See you in the morning."

A small Nevermore had been flying for almost a week now. It never stopped to rest, never stopped to cause harm to the humans and Faunus below it. It didn't even stop when the grass and sea below it turned into purple rocks and dark waters. The only time it ceased to fly was when it entered a castle sitting high above the ground and placed a white and red mask on a table.

Salem gently stroked the small creature's back as she picked up the mask. She immediately recognized it and knew what it meant. Since the owner would never leave it behind, Salem was able to deduce that Nihilus, one of the many Sith she took under her wing, was dead.

Salem declared that this turn of events was actually for the best. Ever since he left her domain, Salem discovered that the Sith had become a wildcard. Rather than aiding Aurora in killing the newly discovered Silver-Eyed Warrior, he sought to gain power on his own. According to Aurora, he fled after his initial failure, so Salem used her pet to keep an eye on the traitor. And once she saw him feed on more and more power, the witch knew that he would one day pose a threat to her plans.

But that was all in the past now. If she knew whoever killed the Sith, she had half the mind to thank them for saving her the trouble.

On the other hand, this showed that after all this time, her servants were not as unrivaled as she believed them to be. In fact, maybe it was time to see how the rest were doing.

Taking the mask in her hand, Salem walked through her castle halls once more. As she did, she couldn't help but notice Aurora training with the Grimm. Each kill gave the Faunus pleasure and satisfaction, knowing that she could accomplish anything. And best of all, she was perhaps one of Salem's most patient followers. So she told the Faunus of the need for a new approach, and how much time it may take before victory was assured. Aurora simply lowered her head and agreed to her master's request, stating that her life was Salem's to command.

Putting these thoughts aside, Salem found herself in front of a barred wooden door. Removing the bar, Salem opened the door and found herself walking down a flight of stone stairs, lit by candles on the walls. Once she reached the bottom of the steps, Salem found herself in front of a red transparent wall, a creation of hers that required nothing more than a little Magic. Approaching the wall, Salem peered into the darkness and spoke. "My friends... I have returned."

Just as she said that, a figure leaped from the darkness and crashed into the transparent wall. Quickly standing up, he began to pound on the wall and scream. Salem recognized the figure before her, as this man had performed the same action too many times. His body was pale and his naked torso revealed nothing but deep scars. The most noticeable scars, however, were on his face. The right side of his face had been destroyed, leaving nothing but uncovered flesh and a blind eyeball.

"Greetings, Sion," Salem said with a smile. "Up to your old tricks, are you?"

More figures came into the light, sharing injuries and features either far worse or just as bad as Sion's. One such injury left a pale man with a respirator that covered his jaw, nose, and mouth. Most of them began to slam their fists against the wall, while only one figure in a black hood kneeled down before his master. Salem smiled at the display of humility and the pathetic display of defiance her former followers were displaying.

After all this time, Salem was still surprised at the number of rebels she had before her. After all, she was the only one who gave them a home after the battle on Coruscant. After she spent hours regenerating and reconstituting herself after the massive explosion, Salem discovered that she wasn't the only survivor. All around her were nothing but abominations. Some were far away enough to only receive flesh wounds like Sion. However, the amount of Force energy, that was once true Magic, had a different effect on those closest to the blast. If they weren't destroyed, the Sith's bodies had mutated and resembled something that was far from human. Where one woman had her skin turned red and grew appendages on the back of her head, another had his head grow and his nose disappear.

But Salem didn't care about any of them. For the moment, they were all right where they needed to be. So with a wave of her hand, she made the red wall pulsate and send electricity towards the Sith. Each mutant and abomination was sent flying towards the darkness once again, now too weak to continue their assault. All that was left was herself and the kneeling hooded figure.

"There you are," Salem said. "Rise. I have need of your counsel." The hooded figure rose, but dared not to show its face towards the witch. But Salem didn't care about that, she decided to get straight to business. So she raised her other hand to show the mask of Nihilus. "It would seem that one of your own has fallen. And this time, it was outside this castle."

"..."

Salem took the silence as understanding and continued. "It would seem that Ozpin's forces have become stronger and bolder, even without the Jedi. Now Nihilus was always one to get in over his head if power was his for the taking. You understand that is why I created this barrier for him, to keep him and you all under control?"

The figure's head shook up and down, conveying understanding once again.

"Then you also know that a better approach is needed. Every time I chose to listen to you, you never failed me. So tell me..." Salem leaned closer to the wall. "What would you suggest for victory against those who can kill someone like Nihilus?"

Finally, the figure spoke in an old, raspy voice. "Everything will proceed as you wish, Your Grace... if you do I as I ask."

TheCourtofTalons · Sep 26, 2023

Chapter 31: The Surprise

The sunlight shined through the window, finding its way into the small room. As it spread across the table and one empty bed, the last place it found itself was on the face of a teenage girl. Once the heat and light stayed still for a few moments, the girl opened her eyes and began to fully wake up. As she moved out of bed, the teenager began her morning routine of getting dressed and brushing her long black hair in the bathroom. Her attire consisted of a tan vest, jeans, a white shirt underneath the vest, a pauldron on her shoulder, and black boots.

*KNOCK*

*KNOCK*

*KNOCK*

The teenager turned towards the direction of the door, not expecting company so early in the morning. But once she saw an empty bed just across from hers, she had a good idea of who it was. So after she put the brush behind the mirror and closed it, the girl left the bathroom and opened the door. On the other side was a man in chrome armor, fully dressed from the helmet on his head to the boots on his feet. His black visor stared down at the young girl before him, studying her appearance. While most would believe the expression behind the helmet would be neutral or apathetic, the man's helmet was actually hiding a soft smile as he looked down at the teenager, whose height was just above his chest.

Most people would be more than uncomfortable with standing in the presence of a fully armored Mandalorian, but the young girl smiled and moved her hair from her left eye. "Hi, Dad," she said as she moved aside, feeling more than glad to see him.

"Hi, Cinder," the Mandalorian said as he moved to the table in the center of the room. Placing a bag on the table, he reached in and took out two small stacks of pancakes in trays, placing them in front of two chairs. "Happy Birthday."

Cinder smiled as she joined her father for their yearly tradition. Five years had passed since she and Djarin first arrived at Beacon Academy. In that time, when they weren't teaching students or training, the Mandalorians found ways to make the school feel more like a home. And today was perhaps one of the best days to do that.

Every year, on the Maiden's birthday, Din Djarin would buy two stacks of pancakes for breakfast. Cinder's birthdays were always ignored when she was a child, when she was an orphan and slave. So the clan of two would always make the day better, starting with breakfast. While he always preferred a plain stack of three, Cinder's pancakes were always her favorite: blueberry.

"How's the stack this year?" Djarin asked as he took one more bite of his.

"Mmmm," Cinder hummed as she enjoyed her next bite. "Better than ever."

Djarin smiled at the notion and finished off his pancakes. As he did, the Mandalorian put his helmet back on and stood up. "So, what sounds like a plan for today?"

Cinder continued to eat her food while she explained what she wanted to do. "I heard Vale is finally getting ready for the Vytal Festival. Other than the tournament, they'll be decorating the town square and welcoming exchange students. I was thinking we could go down and see everything that's going on."

Djarin rubbed Cinder's head as he walked to the door. "That sounds like a good idea. We can do that once we're all done."

Cinder turned back to her father. "All... done?" she repeated in confusion. "With what?"

Djarin turned around to look at Cinder. "I ran into Ozpin on the way back. He says he has a training plan for you this morning."

Cinder's eyes widened. "Oh, wow. Really?" Standing up, Cinder made a small fire in the palm of her hand. "I can't remember the last time he needed to train me with my powers."

"I was surprised too. Normally, I'd watch and see what he needs you to do. But I have to go out." Djarin opened the door and began to walk down the hall. Cinder quickly stopped him from walking down the rest of the way by placing a hand on his shoulder.

"Dad, what's going on?" she asked.

Djarin turned around once more to face his daughter. "What do you mean?" he asked.

"You've been going out every day for the past week and a half. At first, I thought you were just bounty hunting, but you still have your teaching job." Cinder crossed her arms. "There's something else going on, isn't there?"

Djarin had a feeling that this conversation would happen. He knew that by the fourth day he left Beacon, Cinder would start to suspect that something was going on. In reality, there was something he had been doing that he didn't want Cinder knowing. But he wanted to keep it a secret for a little while longer. "Cinder, I can explain later," he said. "We'll talk after-"

"At least tell me what all of this is about," Cinder pleaded. "If you're in trouble, I can help you."

"I'm not in trouble. And it's not that I need help, it's that I-"

"Wait, wait, wait." Cinder put her hands up. "If you're still looking for them, you don't have to. This is something I need to do, not you. You don't need to worry about it."

Djarin sighed before continuing. "I made a promise to you, Cinder. I know you're still looking for them, and there have been a few days where I've done that. But I can't tell you what else I've been doing."

Cinder was starting to grow even more concerned and annoyed at the apparent secret her father was hiding. "Why not?" she asked.

Djarin could tell that Cinder's curiosity and concern wouldn't go away without an answer, Djarin confided in his daughter very carefully. "I have a surprise for you."

"...Surprise?" Cinder asked calmly. "What surprise? Wait, is this about my birthday?"

"I can't say anything right now... but yes," he confessed. "I'm going to Nevarro, to prepare. Do you think you can meet me there, once you're done with Ozpin?"

Cinder's eyes lit up with excitement. "Oh, wow!" she exclaimed with a smile. "I mean... I never thought that... Sure! I won't ask anymore questions, I'll see you in Nevarro!" Quickly hugging her father, Cinder rushed down the stairs to find Ozpin. Djarin was left alone to feel relieved that his surprise for Cinder wasn't completely ruined. It had been something he planned for weeks, something that he wanted to share with Cinder. He was slightly upset about one of Cinder's questions, but he currently had his mind on more important things. With that, he used his Semblance to leave the building.

One year ago

"So after that jerk tricks me into thinking a skirt was part of the school uniform, I show up to class to have everyone, even the teachers, laugh at me."

"I was just a TA, I-I didn't know what to do, so I just... I just left the room to laugh!"

Cinder began to laugh at the story Qrow and Professor Peter Port were telling her and Djarin. Apparently, one of Qrow's teammates had tricked him into believing that a skirt was part of the student uniform for boys, and that it was actually a kilt.

"I never wore a uniform before, how the hell was I supposed to know?!" Qrow defended himself as he took a sip of his flask. "But it wasn't that bad. Some of the girls thought I had nice legs. So then we-"

Professor Port suddenly raised his right leg on the table that everyone was sitting at. "Like what you see?" he asked sarcastically. Everyone at the table, even Djarin, found themselves laughing at the story and the teacher's display.

Cinder was laughing so much, she had to dry her eyes before saying anything else. "And here I thought I heard every crazy story at Beacon," she said.

"Well, there's more where that came from, kid," said Qrow. "Classes are over if you two wanna stick around for a bit."

"Actually, we have to go," said Djarin. "It's almost time for dinner, I told Cinder we could get-"

"Wait, it's almost dinner time?"

Everyone turned to Cinder, who was looking at her Scroll. "I, uh... I have to go do something," she said as she excused herself from the table. While Qrow and Professor Port didn't think too much about her leaving, Djarin found himself to be concerned.

"Cinder, where are you going?" Djarin asked calmly.

"I, uh... I have to mail a couple of letters. Korkie sent me this really nice letter, and I gotta send him one back!" Cinder suddenly rushed out of the teacher's lounge. "I'll be back for dinner!" she said as she rushed down the hall. With that, Qrow and Professor Port decided it was time for them to go as well. Professor Port left first, but Qrow stayed in the room. He couldn't help but notice that Djarin was still staring where Cinder had ran, and he felt concerned.

"Hey, Mando," Qrow said as he tapped his shoulder. "You okay?"

"Huh?" Djarin asked as he snapped back to reality. "I'm fine." He began to walk away, but Qrow found himself joining the Mandalorian.

"You sure?" he asked. "You kinda zoned out there."

"It's nothing," Djarin insisted. "I could just be overthinking something."

"Well, lay it on me. I'll overthink it with you."

Djarin appreciated the help, but really thought he was just overthinking Cinder's sudden departure. Nevertheless, he shared his thoughts with the young Huntsman. "Well, tonight's not the first night Cinder's gone to Vale by herself."

"Maybe she just likes the city. Other than Atlas, Vale's been known to capture a few eyes."

"I thought that too. But I started to notice she's been going on her own around the same time every day. Usually, it's once during the day and once in the evening. When I ask her what she's been doing, she changes the subject."

Qrow was starting to see why the Mandalorian was thinking what he was. "You think she's hiding something from you?"

"If she wasn't, she would answer me directly. She's never kept secrets before."

"Well, she's a teenager, Mando. Kids her age always get into some kind of trouble."

"So I've heard. Cinder's stayed up past Beacon's curfew before, but this is... different."

"Maybe she has a boyfriend she's meeting with."

"No, it's not that. She's been seeing Korkie for a long time, going to the CCT to do it. And last I heard, he's still in Mistral, training to be a politician with his aunt."

Qrow was starting to run out of ideas as to what Cinder was doing in the city. Maybe she was mailing a letter like she said, but the Mandalorian's observations seemed to tell a different story. To ease both their concerns, Qrow suggested an idea. "I can keep an eye on her, the next time she goes into the city. Or right now if you want."

"..."

Djarin considered the idea. He didn't want Cinder to think that he didn't trust her, and asking Qrow to see what she was doing might make the situation sound that way. But nevertheless, he had no idea what secret, if any, Cinder was hiding from him. So reluctantly, Djarin agreed to Qrow's idea.

Using the ability that Ozpin gave him long ago, Qrow Branwen transformed into a small crow out of sight. He arrived at Beacon's landing bay just in time to see Cinder board an airship that was on route to the city of Vale. Qrow landed on the top of the ship to avoid detection, and flew onto a lamppost once it landed. Cinder immediately made her way through the city, walking on the crowded sidewalks while staring at the buildings around her. She had lived in the Kingdom for a long time, and yet she always loved seeing the city whenever she had time.

But tonight, Cinder didn't stop and stare for too long. Instead, she made her way towards the library. And given that she didn't have any letters with her, Qrow could tell that she lied about what she was doing in Vale. As she made her way up the stone steps and into a brick building, Cinder failed to notice Qrow fly into an alley and transform back into a human.

Ten minutes later, Cinder exited the building, carrying multiple pieces of paper. She was so focused on looking through them all that she didn't see that someone was standing in front of her. The young girl immediately bumped into the man in front of her and dropped her papers. "Oh, sorry!" she said without looking up, trying to pick up every piece of paper she dropped.

"Don't worry about it, kid."

Cinder gasped as she looked up to see Qrow, putting his flask back in his pocket. Immediately starting to panic, Cinder quickly grabbed as many papers as she could. "Qrow! Don't look at these!" she yelled. The Huntsman looked down at her with a raised eyebrow, wondering what she was hiding. "Uh... This isn't... I can..." Cinder couldn't make a complete sentence at the moment, given that she had no idea what to say.

"Cinder, let's talk," Qrow said as he led Cinder to a bench in front of the library, where he sat down with Cinder next to him.

"What are you doing here?" she asked. "Were you... following me?"

Qrow knew how the idea of following a young girl sounded on paper, and he felt really awkward since that was the case. So he decided to explain his reasons for doing so. "Well... yeah," he began. "Your dad's been noticing you acting weird, and he wanted me to-"

"Wait, he knows?" Cinder quickly asked as she looked up at Qrow. "Does he know where we are?"

"I called to let him know, yeah. But he doesn't know why. I'd like to-"

Cinder quickly dropped her papers once again. She then buried her face in her hands, starting to cry. "I didn't want him to know," she whimpered. "What am I going to do now?"

Seeing the young girl cry was the last reaction Qrow expected to see when he confronted Cinder. He was expecting lies and excuses, as most of his targets did. But the breakdown Cinder was suffering awakened Qrow's sympathy and he acted accordingly. "Kid, you're not in trouble," he assured her. "We're just worried about you, we wanna know what's been going on with you. Like, why are you here of all places?"

Cinder dried one of her eyes and looked back at Qrow. "You don't understand," she claimed. "Dad won't understand either, I just know it."

"What are you talking about?"

Cinder lowered her hand to pick up two of the papers. Looking them over, she handed them to the young Huntsman. Carefully taking them, Qrow turned them around to see their contents. Holding each paper in one hand, Qrow was looking over a list of names and birthdates. He was also looking over a list of orphanages in Mistral with names of children that were taken in. As he stopped at the halfway mark of both pages, Qrow finally began to understand what was going on. He carefully put down the papers and looked back at Cinder.

"...You've been looking for your parents," he realized.

Cinder nodded as she sniffled a few more times, not saying a word.

"Well... this explains why you're here. But why didn't you tell Mando? Why have you been keeping this a secret?"

"I..." Cinder had to dry her eyes one more time before continuing. "I didn't want him to think I was doing this to get away from him. To think that he's been a bad parent. I mean, he didn't know everything about raising a kid, but he did the best he could for me. I love him more than anything on Remnant."

"So why are you doing this?"

"Lately... I haven't felt like myself. It's like there's... something missing. I've thought about it for a while, and I realized that... I don't even know who I am." Cinder could tell Qrow wasn't understanding her, so she explained more. "I mean, I know I'm a Mandalorian and a Maiden, but they never answered the big questions I have. Where did I really come from? Who am I?" Cinder looked down the list of names. "I mean, I could be Olivia Grey, Diana Stark, Luna Lavender!" Cinder stood up and walked a few feet away from Qrow. "And I don't know if my parents are dead, or if they just couldn't take care of me!" Cinder felt more tears come down her eyes. "I! Don't! Know!"

"..."

Qrow could see how Cinder was feeling, not knowing who she was. Fortunately for him, he never had to feel something like that. But there was no denying that the idea was scary for Cinder. He once heard that one of the most frightening things in the world was not knowing who you are. And Cinder had just confirmed that theory.

Qrow wished he could help Cinder, make her feel better. So while he couldn't help Cinder with how she was feeling, he knew how to make her burden easier.

"...This is something you need to do, isn't it?" he asked. Once Cinder nodded again, Qrow knew what to do. "Cinder, Mando's gonna love you no matter what you do. I hardly think that you looking for your parents or wanting to know who you are will make him feel sorry for himself." Qrow extended a hand to the teenager. "Let me show you."

After Qrow brought Cinder back to Beacon, they made their way to her room. They found Djarin preparing dinner, but stopped once he saw the two of them standing at the door. Seeing Qrow nod to her, Cinder asked Djarin to sit down.

That was when she told him everything. She told him what she had been doing and why, making sure to emphasize the point that she was in no way disappointed being his daughter.

After she finished, Djarin stood up and asked Qrow to leave. After he closed the door, Djarin turned back to Cinder. "If this is something you feel that you need to do, I just have one thing to say." Putting a hand on her shoulder, he made a demand. "Tell me how I can help."

Present day

"Is it ready?"

"Everything seems to be in order, sir. I've done everything on my part, the rest will be up to her."

"Indeed. Thank you for going through the trouble, Glynda. I'm sure that it will-"

*BEEP*

"Come in."

The door in Professor Ozpin's office opened to reveal Cinder, who walked inside to see both Ozpin and Professor Goodwitch. "Good morning, Professor Goodwitch," she said politely.

"Good morning, Cinder," the Professor politely responded.

Cinder turned to the man sitting at the desk towards the window. "Good morning, Professor Ozpin."

"Good morning, Cinder," Ozpin said with a smile. "And Happy Birthday."

"Thank you." Cinder smiled. "Dad just told me that you had some training for me."

"I do. And I hope you don't mind that it's today of all days. It was the only day that both Glynda and I have that we could work together on it."

"I don't mind at all. In fact, it's been a while since you gave me a challenge. Not running out of ideas, are you?"

Ozpin and Glynda walked closer to the elevator. "Given that you've been exceeding my expectations ever since you've arrived here, I would be lying if I said challenging you was easy." As Cinder walked inside, Ozpin closed the elevator. "But I recently got the idea from my time as Headmaster of Beacon Academy."

The elevator ride led to a walk to Beacon's docking bay, were Cinder was able to get a look at the city of Vale in the distance. She was more than excited to see how the city was preparing for the Vytal Festival, and knew that it would be a sight to behold. But now, her excitement and curiosity was taken by Ozpin's mysterious challenge.

The walk across the academy ended at Beacon Cliff, where the Emerald Forest was the only sight to behold. Cinder had only been there once, on another challenge Ozpin gave her. Seeing the forest brought back the memory of being forced to stay in the forest for two hours straight, killing any Grimm that came her way.

"I trust you remember your previous task here?" Ozpin asked sarcastically.

"As if it were yesterday," Cinder said while she rolled her eyes. "Let me guess, I'll be staying here for four hours today?"

"Actually, that will depend on you," said Professor Goodwitch, who stood close to a metal plate on the ground.

Ozpin stood where he was as he explained himself. "For years, you have trained to become the warrior you are now, and today, your abilities will once again be evaluated in the Emerald Forest."

"We have been conducting this process of student initiation for years," said Professor Goodwitch. "Rather than having the students choose their partners and future teammates, they are paired at random."

"That being said, the first person they make eye contact with after landing in the forest becomes their partner for the next four years."

Cinder looked out into the distance. "I've heard about it before," she said. "Dad and I never really watched it, though. But I like how initiation gives the students a chance to get firsthand experience against the Grimm."

"Indeed," said Ozpin. "That, and it creates less tension between the students."

"We have given this test to everyone here," said Glynda. "Now we want to give it to you, Cinder." She moved from the metal pad. "This will be a trial run to work out some kinks with the equipment. Please, step on."

The Fall Maiden did as she was told, noticing that the pad had the insignia of Vale's Crest on it. "Okay. Now what?"

"You will be monitored through the duration of your training, but we will not intervene," said Ozpin. "You will find an abandoned temple at the northern end of the forest containing one small relic. You will retrieve it and return to the top of the cliff. We will regard the safety of that item, as well as your standing, and determine how well you have done. Are there any questions?"

"No, sir."

"Good! Now, take your position."

Cinder looked down on the metal pad beneath her. Assuming he wanted her to get into fighting position, Cinder took out her swords and prepared to run down the steep cliff.

"Oh, we forgot to mention one thing," said Glynda, who realized why Cinder got into a running position. "You won't be running into the forest. You will be falling."

Cinder stood upright once again and looked around. Not seeing any place to fall from, the Maiden became confused. "Falling? From where?"

"The cliff, of course," said Ozpin.

"Oh, okay. So you want me to jump down from here?"

"No. You will be sent down there."

"Okay, this is just getting more and more confusing. How am I going to be-?"

*CLICK*

*WHOOSH*

"GAAAAHHHH!"

The two professors watched their prized pupil be launched into the air via the pad she was standing on.

"Perhaps we should have told her that she was standing on a springboard," Glynda suggested.

"There's nothing we can do about it now," Ozpin declared. "Let us see how she fares while landing."

After a few seconds of flying and screaming, Cinder regained her composure and closed her eyes. Feeling the heat of fire come naturally to her, Cinder allowed jets of flame to escape from her palms. The force the fire applied into the air caused her to stop flying forwards. Instead, Cinder felt the fire move beneath her feet and let her stay in the air. Rather than staying, Cinder leaned forward to fall down towards the forest, the fire behind her increasing her speed.

"I think now would be a good time to get a look in the forest," said Ozpin.

Glynda wordlessly took out her Scroll and opened a section labeled "Cameras." There, she saw nothing but the quiet forest, filled with nothing but grass and trees. All of a sudden, one of the screens showed a burst of white coming to the ground. It revealed itself to be a slide of sorts, made entirely of ice. And Cinder had just slid down and flew a couple of feet into the air before landing on the ground.

"An impressive strategy," said Glynda. "She's certainly gotten stronger."

"And her natural use of her powers had only become easier," said Ozpin. "Now let us see how well she can find the temple."

After landing on the ground, Cinder took her time to catch her breath from the surprise she received from Ozpin and Glynda.

"Well... that was exciting," she thought to herself. "It'll actually teach any new students to expect the unexpected. If that didn't get their blood flowing, Dad's class will give them a proper introduction to Beacon. Now let's see how this new initiation goes."

Cinder began to become aware of her surroundings, which consisted of nothing but trees and grass.

"I could use my powers to fly above the trees, figure out how far I am from the north." Cinder prepared to take flight once again, but stopped herself. "No. It's easy, but it kind of defeats the purpose of this test. I guess I need to challenge myself." She began to walk forward again, hoping to find some kind of clue as to where she was. Moving past the trees and pushing the branches aside led to her touching the base of one tree, which was covered in moss.

"Moss!" Cinder thought to herself. Looking closer at the tree, she began to concentrate. "Think, Cinder. Dad said that the moss in Vale grows on the... the north side of trees!" Cinder turned around and smiled. "Which means north is this way!" Seeing more thick branches before her, Cinder used her powers to create a burst of wind that cleared a path for her. Content with her work, Cinder used her wind again to fly forwards into the woods.

"Once again, Cinder's intelligence helps her prevail."

"She's on the right path, but also the wrong one. According to the cameras, she'll be walking straight into Grimm."

Cinder just flew back to avoid the large black paw that almost struck her. After she regained herself, the Maiden became familiar with her opposition; three large black bears, with one of them bigger and covered in white bone protrusions.

"Three Ursai, one Major and two Minors," the teenager thought to herself. "Focus on the larger one, he'll take care of the others when I kill it." Taking a vial of Dust from her belt, Cinder opened it and let the Dust out in front of her. Quickly using her Semblance, Cinder made the small Dust turn into three large crystals, all of which impaled the Ursa Major.

When it fell over, the Grimm's body quickly expanded and exploded, the bone spines quickly impaling the other two. Before they could impale Cinder, she created a wall of fire that cremated the bones.

"Glynda, how much fire would it take to cremate bones?"

"It would appear to be... roughly fourteen thousand degrees, sir."

"A tremendous feat, one that requires a lot of energy."

"And she's still making her way to the temple."

The wall of fire Cinder created did indeed require a lot of energy, which made Cinder feel tired. Nevertheless, she was still able to continue her trek through the forest. It took her past many more trees and in front of a cave. The cave entrance had carved drawings of armed men fighting giant beasts.

"Well if that's not a warning, I don't know what is," Cinder remarked to herself as she continued to move. Carefully observing each tree for more moss, she knew that she was heading in the right direction. But after a while, Cinder found herself needing rest. Sitting down on a rock, Cinder removed one of her boots and rubbed her foot.

"If I knew I'd be here all day, I wouldn't have worn these things," she said as she repeated the process on her other foot. Sighing as she put it back on and twirled it, Cinder decided that she had enough rest.

As well as enough walking.

"I shouldn't keep Dad waiting any longer than he should be," she said. "Let's see how much further I am." Feeling fire return to her body, Cinder shot into the air and gazed upon the forest.

Glynda looked at the cameras on her Scroll and sighed. She had a feeling Cinder using her powers of flight to make the challenge easier was a possibility.

"Let it go, Glynda," Ozpin ordered calmly.

"But this is cheating!" Glynda protested. "Initiation isn't meant to be this easy."

"Given that Cinder chose to use her powers now rather than when she first entered the forest, I am sure she is aware of that too. Otherwise, she would have gotten the Relic by now."

"I suppose." Glynda looked back to her Scroll.

"Don't worry, Glynda. I have a feeling Cinder's acquisition of the Relic will not be as easy."

"Why's that?"

"..."

"Professor Ozpin?"

The aerial view allowed Cinder to see the abandoned ruins of an almost forgotten temple. When Cinder landed, all she could see was stone bricks out of place and covered in moss. At the center of it we're stone pedestals, barren and dirty. However, one of them had a small item on it; a chess piece, a White Queen.

"Hey, look at this," Cinder said as she took the piece, looking it over and examining each detail. Cinder had played chess with Djarin and Ozpin a few times, learning significant strategies about combat along the way. "I wouldn't call it a Relic, but it's over now." Cinder clutched the piece tightly as she began to see that the task wasn't that much of a challenge.

That was, until, a Nevermore flew just above her and let out a screech.

The echo of the screech led to the surrounding forest, where multiple kinds of Grimm began to emerge. Cinder turned around and observed each one approaching closer and closer. "Should've known it was too easy," Cinder cursed herself as she put the chess piece back on the pedestal, not wanting to break it while fighting the Grimm.

As soon as the Maiden drew her swords, a Boarbatusk charged towards her. Despite the Grimm having four eyes on its head, it was oblivious to the orange light forming beneath it. Cinder clenched her fist and watched the orange light explode, taking the Grimm with it.

The Maiden's reaction speed had improved as the years went on, mainly from her training with Ozpin and her father. It was this training that allowed her to use ice, wind, and even electricity to take care of the other Grimm. When she heated the blades of her swords and cut down one more Ursa, the Maiden thought of a way to get the Nevermore.

"Thirteen Grimm in less than a minute. We've taught her well, sir."

"I can't believe I'm saying this, but I almost feel excited to see how she'll deal with the Nevermore."

When the avian beast made one more pass around the mountain, it looked downwards. Sensing the emotion of anger caused it to swoop down and focus on the young girl walking on a stone bridge. After unleashing a storm of large feathers onto the bridge and watching the girl dodge and evade each one, it flew above her for another pass.

But Cinder leapt into the air and met the Grimm head on. Focusing on her anger once again, Cinder made herself vulnerable to the open beak of the hungry Grimm.

But instead of devouring a young human, the Grimm found a large shard of ice shoved down its throat.

Cinder had done something like this before, she had used most of her energy to create a large-scale elemental attack. Once she did it, physical rest was more than required. So Cinder had to be careful to aim just in the right spot so she wouldn't leave herself vulnerable to the Grimm once more.

But once the carcass hit the ground and turned into dust, the Maiden knew it was all over. And after a few more minutes of rest, she was ready to deliver the Relic to Ozpin and Glynda.

"Remarkable. Truly remarkable."

"A combination of Maiden powers and her own skills. Cinder may have used her powers more, but she certainly knows the best of both worlds."

"And I have no doubt she'll be ready for what's to come."

"That is, if she accepts our offer."

"Let us see later today. I'm sure Cinder wants nothing more than to spend the rest of her day with her father."

Cinder took an airship from Beacon to Nevarro. Ever since the officials of Vale decided to approve the requests to build an official landing pad for the town, travel had become easier for her and Djarin. And now, she had just begun her walk to Djarin's village. The walk was peaceful and gave Cinder time to think about her recent test. She was happy to fight the Grimm for a change, given that the majority of her training was with Ozpin. Grimm fighting was a part of it, but not very often. And she was wondering what was so important about that chess piece. Perhaps it was like the game Djarin taught her, Capture the Flag.

But she decided to wait until later to find out, as the Mandalorian village came into view. As she passed the two guards she had become acquainted with, every Mandalorian in the village square looked up at Cinder. Some waved and nodded while a few others followed her. One of these was Sun Jabbid, Djarin's old friend.

"Welcome back, Cinder," the Mandalorian said. "It's been a while since we last saw each other."

"Four months, I think," Cinder remembered. "How have you been?"

"Fine, thank you. Although, the last few nights haven't been kind to me."

"Why's that? Are the Grimm being a problem for your eyes?"

"No, that's still under control. My Foundling's just starting to be a bit of a handful."

"Oh..."

Cinder remembered when Sun first mentioned that a new Foundling had joined the tribe. Cinder met the child a few times; she joined the tribe at a young age, when she was only a toddler. Apparently, someone left her to die in the middle of the woods. That was where Sun said he found her.

Cinder smiled at the mention of a child. "I'm sorry, Sun," she said with a small laugh. "I'm sure I was a handful for my dad. Maybe you could talk to him about it." She then looked around the area. "Have you seen him anywhere? He said he was preparing something for me."

"He wanted me to tell you he's still preparing. If you'd like, I can tell you when he's ready."

"Thank you." Cinder looked to her left to see a hut larger than the rest. "I think I know how to pass the time." As Sun and the other Mandalorians left to find Djarin, Cinder walked up to the hut and stopped at the door.

Inside was a group of children wearing masks and various clothes. At the moment, they were watching two children arm wrestle each other. And the one on the left had just pushed the other child's arm to the table. They all began to cheer as the loser punched the table in defeat.

"Looks like we have a winner," Cinder said to get their attention. As soon as they turned to the voice, the masked Foundlings ran up to Cinder in excitement while a few hugged her.

"Cinder!"

"You're here!"

"Welcome back!"

"We missed you!"

Cinder smiled at the Foundlings and returned some of the hugs, thankful to have time to see them all once again. Given that she was a Foundling herself, Cinder found herself extraordinarily close to the old and new Foundlings of Nevarro. And she would always make time to visit them when she was in the village. "I missed you all too," she said as she moved in closer. "What's going on today?"

"We're waiting for a Founder to take us outside the city!" a young girl said in excitement.

"We're each gonna kill a Grimm until it's dead!" a boy said as he formed two fists.

Cinder laughed at the statement, always finding anything the children said to be adorable. And she was happy that they were all ready to kill a Grimm. But she was still concerned about them. "Now, hold on. You know that killing Grimm isn't a sport or game, right?" she asked.

"Yes," the Foundlings responded.

"So you know that you're supposed to do everything the Founder says when they come, right?"

"Yes."

One Foundling spoke up after the rest answered. "And we need to be prepared for anything. There might be more Grimm than we think."

Another Foundling began to argue. "Don't be silly! We're Mandalorians, we can kill anything!"

The child's overconfidence actually gave Cinder another idea to pass the time, to do something she loved doing whenever she visited. "Wait a minute, wait a minute," she said as the children looked at each other again. "Didn't anyone tell you the story of how one Grimm destroyed an entire village?"

Some of the Foundlings gasped and whispered among themselves. The overconfident child was the first to ask what was on everyone's minds. "How did it do that?"

"Do you want me to tell you?"

"Tell us! Tell us!"

Every child in the room chanted the same thing, which made Cinder smile even more. So she walked over to a bookshelf on the side of the hut's wall. Looking at each one, she pulled out one of her favorite books from when she was a child; Fairy Tales of Remnant, a book she decided to give to the Foundlings when she outgrew it. When she turned around, they were all sitting down in front of a chair.

"Alright," Cinder said as she sat down in front of the children. "Before I start, I should warn you that this story isn't for the faint of heart. Are you all feeling brave today?"

"Yeah!" the children cried out together.

"Then gather around, and listen to the tale of... The Grimm Child."

And so, Cinder read the fairy tale to the Foundlings. The story was that of a very old and rare Grimm called a "Chill." While it wasn't as strong as an Ursa or Beowolf, it came with a very particular power; it could possess and take hold of its prey. The Grimm's goal was to use the unwillingness of people to kill their loved ones who it had taken possession of. And later on, it would kill that person before moving on to the next. By the end of the story... there were no survivors.

"Wow," the overconfident child said as Cinder closed the book.

"So now you see," said Cinder. "There are some forces even stronger than us. Which is why you have to be careful which battles you fight. Can you all promise me to do that today?"

"We promise," the rest of the children said. With that, Cinder put the book back in its place. When she looked back, she could see Djarin and another Mandalorian standing by the door. The Mandalorian clapped her hands together to get the attention of the Foundlings. After they all said goodbye to Cinder, they left her alone with her father.

"I never really liked that story," said Djarin. "I always thought it was too surreal."

"I never liked it either," said Cinder, who was walking up to her father. "But according to Ozpin, it was the inspiration for a lot of other horror stories. Did you know there are also a few video games inspired by it?"

"Heh. Kids these days." Djarin led Cinder outside and began walking towards another part of the village. "Ozpin showed me the recordings from earlier. I knew you'd do a good job."

"Thanks. But Ozpin told me it was part of something else. Isthis what he was talking about?"

"Yes. You've passed trials by air and land. Now it's time to pass a trial by sea."

"Um... okay." Cinder followed Djarin down a dirt path in the woods, curious as to what this trial actually was. "So by 'trial,' do you mean an exercise?"

"...Yes," Djarin said slowly. "It's sort of like what Ozpin had you do earlier, but this is specifically invoked with the Mandalorians."

"Oh, I see. So this is the surprise you were planning? Having me train with the Mandalorians?" Cinder had always tried on her father's Mandalorian training, but this was different. She had never trained with other Mandalorians before, aside from an occasional sparring match. So the idea, while difficult, was interesting to her.

"Not exactly." Djarin stopped walking and turned around. "This is part of it, but not the whole thing."

Each vague answer the Mandalorian had only made Cinder's curiosity grow, as well as the suspense of the assignment. "You certainly know how to present a mystery."

Djarin chuckled as he walked again. "Well, you were always into mysteries. I still haven't forgotten your Nancy Dew phase."

"Come on, those books were fun to read."

"For you, maybe. I liked reading you fairy tales better."

"Yeah, I can see why. But we all have to grow up sometime."

"I know. I just wish it wasn't so fast with you."

Cinder smiled at the notion, thinking back on the times she read stories with Djarin and when he would read the stories to her. From fairy tales to novels for people her age, she would always find time to read just about anything. And given that a couple of fairy tales were extremely important to her, they had a special place in her heart.

"Here we are," said Djarin, who pushed aside a few more branches to reveal a large lake. Standing at the edge of the lake were the Armorer, Sun, Cara Dune, and Greef Karga. As soon as they laid eyes on her, Karga and Cara began to clap and cheer.

"Hey, there she is!" Karga yelled with a smile.

"You're gonna do great, kid!" Cara cheered.

Cinder was caught off guard by the surprise support, but she smiled and waved nonetheless. "Hey, guys," she said. "Good to see you two."

"Are you kidding?" Karga asked. "We wouldn't miss this for the world."

"Oh, um..." Apparently, something about the lake was more important than she realized, if Karga and Cara were excited enough to leave Nevarro for a little while. "Thank you," she said. "Maybe you could tell me what surprise Dad has for me?"

"Oh, crap, she still doesn't know!" Cara whispered. "Shut up for a sec!"

"Right, sorry!" Karga simply smiled and waved.

"Huh?" Cinder looked back to Djarin. "Dad, what are they-?"

"Olarom, Cinder." (Welcome, Cinder.)

The Maiden turned back to see the Armorer walking towards her. "It has been many months since we last spoke."

"Four months too many," Cinder said with a smile. "It's good to see you too."

The Armorer looked at the sheath Cinder was carrying on her back. "You still have my first craft."

"And I've been taking good care of them. I couldn't do anything to change them back to their silver color, but they're still as sharp as ever."

"You can remove them from your sheath. You will not be using them today."

The Armorer walked towards the edge of the large lake, leaving Cinder to take her sheath off her back. Once she handed them to Djarin, Cinder joined the Armorer. "But I... I thought I was going to be doing some sort of training today."

"You will," the Armorer confirmed. "But this will require your own cunning."

"Oh." Cinder looked into the water. "What do I have to do?"

"You and your father have spent many years at Beacon Academy. I have heard of its reputation, how they accept the best students so they may learn from the best teachers."

"They really are the best." Cinder pointed to Djarin. "Dad's great at teaching combat techniques, Professor Oobleck is a great historian, and Professor Port knows just about every kind of Grimm." The Armorer looked back at Cinder, slightly surprised at her knowledge of the teachers. Cinder chuckled out of embarrassment. "I, uh... I sometimes listen to their lectures."

"...Then you must know about all the Grimm that walk the surface of Remnant."

"For sure. I know about Beowolves, Ursai, Boarbatusks-"

"Did your teachers ever tell you of the Angler?"

Cinder paused. "The... Angler?" She took a few seconds to think back on what she learned at Beacon. "Wait, yes! Yes, they did!"

"What did they tell you about it?"

"Well, it's one of the more rarer types of Grimm. And it's also one of the more dangerous ones."

"Why is that?"

"It lives underwater, in places where its dark or where the sun doesn't shine. It's also one of the biggest fish on Remnant, with teeth sharper and stronger than most of the land Grimm. It's roughly the same size as an Ursa Major."

The Armorer slightly chuckled. "Your time at Beacon has taught you well. But there is one other fact about Anglers that you missed. Do you know what it is?" Cinder shook her head. "Their teeth are strong, just like you said. They are also sharp enough to act as knives and sharpeners for Beskar. I have used them to make arrows like the ones you carry, but my supply has run low. I require more teeth to continue my work."

"Oh." Cinder took a second to think. "Well, do you think they sell them in Nevarro? You can buy just about anything..." The Armorer walked past Cinder in order for her to get a view of the water. Once the Maiden's eyes fell on the lake, she began to understand why they were meeting here. "Oh. I get it now." She turned back to the Armorer. "I need to get you more teeth?"

"At least one. You are free to take as much time as you need, but you cannot use any weapons. Use whatever strength and cunning you have to succeed. And under no circumstances must you kill this Grimm. Otherwise, its teeth will turn into dust. Do you understand?"

"I do."

"Good luck."

The Armorer walked away, towards Karga and Cara. In her place stepped Djarin, who was watching Cinder try to prepare herself for the encounter. As soon as she saw him, Cinder tried to put on a brave face. But she was failing.

"This is... Oh, boy," she said as she rubbed her head. "Oh, man. This is... pretty intimidating. I've only seen Anglers in books, I never imagined I see one up close."

"I've done this before," said Djarin. "You can use your Semblance, and the teeth are hard to pull out. Try hitting it against a rock, and don't worry about how much time you'll be down there."

"Okay, yeah. Yeah, that makes sense." Appreciating her father's advice, Cinder began to find her confidence. "I only need one, anyways. I can try."

"Try?" Djarin put a hand on her shoulder and pointed at Cinder. "Remember what we've talked about, Cinder. You can't try everything in life. This is one of those times when you do ordon't do."

"...You're right." Cinder took a deep breath and looked at the water. "I'm not coming back empty handed."

"One more thing." Djarin reached into his belt and took out a small piece of metal with two small tubes at the end. "The Wind Dust in this will help you breathe and not need to resurface anytime soon." He then pointed towards Karga and Cara. "I'll be right here when you get back. Good luck."

Cinder didn't watch Djarin walk away. Instead, she took off her boots and took a few more breaths. Finding the rest of her confidence was no easy task, and it required some of the methods she learned from Obi-Wan. But once she let go of her fears, Cinder began to walk into the water. Putting the respirator on her mouth as the cold water reached her neck, Cinder allowed herself to go deeper into the dark water.

At first, it was hard to see anything. The dim skylight made the water almost foggy, so Cinder focused on her powers once more. While the fire couldn't come to her eyes as it always did, she could feel herself use them naturally. So she focused more and moved some of the water from her face. The moving water made a small hole of air for her to see, seemingly creating a pair of goggles for her. Now able to see better, she moved deeper into the water.

Djarin was waiting on the shore with Karga, Cara, and the Armorer. While his company was patient and eager for her to return, Djarin was beginning to feel anxious.

"I feel like something should have happened by now," he said.

"Perhaps it has," said the Armorer. "And we cannot see from here."

The idea only made Djarin's nerves grow, but he didn't falter from the idea of Cinder taking on the aquatic Grimm.

"So, Mando..." Cara started. "You said you did this before, right?"

"Yes," the Mandalorian confirmed. "A long time ago."

Cara looked at her Scroll. "It's been about a half minute. How long did it take for you to find the Grimm?"

"Or did it find you first?" Karga inquired.

"It found me," said Djarin, who looked over to Cara's Scroll. "Right about... now."

Cinder felt the water behind her move, so she turned around to see what happened. The young Maiden could only see more water around her, but there was finally light. Except, this wasn't sunlight. It was an orange glow, small and moving quickly.

And moving closer to her.

Cinder began to make out some features behind the orange light. Aside from the large red eyes, Cinder could see a large set of teeth in an open mouth, prepared to bite down quickly.

But Cinder was faster than the mouth, and she was able to move out of the way, using her control of the wind to swim faster than most people. Looking back at the Grimm, the teenager was able to see that the Grimm was indeed as big as an Ursa Major, and it was even more intimidating. The fish had gills that were black and white, its fins were pure bone. It's lower jaw stuck further out from the top of the mouth. And now, that mouth was coming closer and closer to Cinder.

Unable to move faster than the enemy, Cinder activated her Aura. The fish bit her leg, only to meet an orange light instead of flesh. It bit her leg again and again, but nothing changed.

Taking advantage of the Grimm's low intelligence, Cinder grabbed one of its teeth and began to pull. But try as she may, the amount of strength she applied wasn't working. And the water made the tooth come close to slipping from her grasp.

"You can use your Semblance, and the teeth are hard to pull out. Try hitting it against a rock, and don't worry about how much time you'll be down there."

Remembering her father's advice, Cinder looked for anything she could use to hit the Grimm's mouth. But before she could find a rock, a jolt of electricity struck her side. The Angler had managed to use the light on its rod to send a small shock to its prey. Cinder screamed in pain, which caused her to lose her respirator. Before she could get it back, the Angler swallowed it when it tried to bite her hand.

Cinder kept her mouth closed to hold her breath. In order to buy herself some time, Cinder reached out towards the Grimm's eye and used her long fingernails to scratch it. The fish let out a shriek of pain and retreated, giving Cinder a chance to get some air.

"Hey, there she is!" Karga yelled as he saw Cinder resurface. "Does she have the tooth?"

Djarin used his helmet's visual enhancements to zoom in on Cinder. "No," he said calmly. "And she doesn't have her respirator. She must have come up for air."

"That's not against the rules, is it?" Cara asked the Armorer.

"As long as she returns to the shore with the tooth, this trial will be a success," the Armorer repeated herself. "She is free to take as much time, and air, as she needs."

Cara smiled again. "Good. And given her track record, she'll be close to getting her-"

"There she goes again!" said Karga.

Cinder submerged into the water again while using her powers to create her makeshift goggles again. The Angler wasn't hard to find, and now it was charging towards her again.

But Cinder was better prepared now. Her time on the surface allowed her to make a plan of attack.

Dodging the Grimm once again, Cinder extended both her palms. A familiar heat began to form, one that wasn't washed away by the water. Instead, the water that the Angler was swimming closer to began to feel warm. About ten seconds later, the water close to the Angler's face began to boil.

Rather than her powers, Cinder used her Semblance to gain her advantage. If she could boil the water around the Grimm, it would grow too weak to fight back. And now, it was indeed starting to grow tired.

Knowing that she couldn't kill it, Cinder unleashed the next part of her plan. Making wind once again, Cinder moved her hands as fast as she could in order to create a current. The fish was caught in the current and began to move faster and faster. Cinder concentrated on her feet to make the wind boost her forward and into the current, where she uppercutted the Grimm with a fist of fire.

The Grimm emerged from the water along with Cinder. Closing her eyes to reorient herself from the dizzy feeling the current gave her, Cinder opened them to see the Grimm flopping in the air while trying to breathe. But all it could do was watch Cinder make a small ball of fire and throw it at the closest teeth it could find. The fire didn't extinguish immediately, but it instead caused two teeth to crack. Once the fire disappeared, Cinder punched the Grimm's jaw and watched two of its teeth break. Cinder quickly caught them and joined the Grimm in the water again, where it swam away instead of fighting more.

As she broke the wall of water above her and felt her wet hair stick to her face, Cinder took a big gasp. Her chest began to soften as the pressure disappeared and she was able to breathe again. Once she took a few more breaths, Cinder moved her hair from her face. Once she saw that everyone was right where Djarin said they would be, Cinder proudly raised the two teeth into the air, causing Karga and Cara to cheer. Once she swam to shore, the Maiden was met with congratulations and shoulder pats.

"Way to go, Cinder!" Karga said as he looked over the fangs.

"That was incredible!" said Cara. "You didn't even have to kill it!"

"Well done," said the Armorer, who took the fangs from Karga. "These will be more than useful, you should be-"

"You did it!"

Before she could say anything, Cinder felt two arms wrap around her and lift her off the ground. Looking down, the teenager saw that it was none other than her father who was hugging her and lifting her off the ground. "I knew you could do it!" he said with a surprising amount of enthusiasm. "I'm so proud of you, you did better than I ever did! This was-!"

"Dad, Dad!" Cinder yelled as she continued to laugh, not expecting her father of all people to be this excited about her exercise. "You can put me down now!"

Djarin lowered his daughter to the ground and began to calm down. "Sorry," he said. "I... got a little-" He suddenly felt two arms wrap around him.

"Thanks for believing in me," Cinder said as she held Djarin tighter.

"I knew you could do it," Djarin said as he hugged Cinder once more.

As soon as they returned to the Mandalorian village outside Nevarro, Karga and Cara returned to their duties as Magistrate and Marshal. Cinder decided to dry herself off in a small hut using a towel. Placing her clothes on a chair, Cinder created a small fire in her hands to dry them until they were no longer damp. Cinder quickly redressed and exited the hut, where she found Djarin waiting for her. "Are we calm now?" she asked with a sarcastic smirk.

"Heh, heh," Djarin awkwardly chuckled. "Sorry about that. I think I got carried away."

"Maybe a little. I just can't remember the last time you were that happy." Cinder put her towel down on a bench and moved her wet hair out of her eye. "So, are you ready to go to Vale?"

"Isn't it almost noon?"

Cinder took out her reclaimed Scroll and looked at the time. "Yeah, it should be noon in about an hour. Why do you ask?"

"I thought you said you got a call from the Schnees yesterday. That they invited you for tea."

Cinder gasped and put down her Scroll. "I almost forgot! Can you take me there?"

"Why don't you take the Crest? I have a few things to do before I leave."

"You don't mind?"

"Of course not, I trust you with the ship. Go ahead, have fun. I'll see you at Beacon before we go to Vale."

"Thanks, Dad. See you in a while."

Cinder quickly took off towards the spot where Djarin usually left the Razor Crest. After she disappeared from his sight, the Mandalorian walked into the Armorer's forgery, where she was examining the Angler teeth she had just received. "The Foundling has brought me a fresh pair," she said. "They will do nicely."

"Good," said Djarin, who sat down in front of the Armorer. "Did you see the recordings I gave you? The ones Ozma made in the Emerald Forest?"

"I did. It is as you said. First, she passed one trial by land. Then, she passed one more by air. And now, she has passed one by water."

"That... is good news. I have held my part of the bargain. Will you still hold your part?"

"This is the Way. I will begin immediately."

"Alright, darling. Klein said your tea should be ready in two minutes. That should give us just enough time to practice one final time."

"Okay, Mother. I'm ready."

A white haired woman in a white cravat and purple jacket sitting by a piano looked back at the little white haired girl standing to her right. The girl was wearing a long white ponytail behind her head, along with a white shirt that had short sleeves and a blue skirt. Once she cleared her throat, her mother looked back to the piano and began to play a few keys. Just as she did, the little girl began to sing.

At first, it was a beautiful "Ah" noise, but it suddenly turned into words.

"I've been afraid,

never standing on my own.

I let you be the keeper of my pride.

Believed you when you told me

I was nothing on my own.

Listen when I say!

I swear it here today!

I will not surrender,

this life is mine!"

As the girl proudly finished her singing with a smile, she suddenly turned towards the sound of soft crying. Her smile disappeared when she saw her mother drying her eyes and closing the piano.

"Mother, are you alright?" she asked calmly. "What's wrong?"

Willow Schnee looked back to her daughter. "I'm sorry, Weiss," she said as she stood up. "It's just that... you've always had a beautiful voice. That was lovely."

Weiss smiled again. "Thank you. I just hope everyone at the charity concert will like it too."

Willow kneeled down to her daughter. "Are you sure you want to sing there? I don't want you thinking that you need to do things you're not comfortable with."

"I'm sure. But... I am a little nervous. I just wish someone else could hear me sing and tell me how I did."

A voice from behind the little girl lifted her spirits. "Your wish is granted."

Willow and Weiss turned to see a familiar teenager with black hair standing behind them with a smile. "Hello, everyone," she said with a small wave.

"Cinder!" Weiss said in surprise as she ran over and hugged the manor's visitor. "I'm so happy to see you!"

"It's good to see you too, Weiss," Cinder said as she returned the hug. She then looked up to the adult who was walking towards her. "Mrs. Schnee, it's good to see you again. Thank you for the invitation."

"Cinder, you know you're always welcome at our house," Willow said with a smile. "And as you can tell, it's always a pleasure when you visit."

Cinder smiled as she and Weiss released their hug. "Is Winter here?"

"She'll be joining us in the garden. Klein just made tea for you all." Willow walked in front of Cinder and Weiss to lead them to the garden. Once they found themselves outside, they also found Winter waiting for them, hands behind her back and standing straight, almost as if she was standing at attention.

Before Cinder could greet her longtime friend, Weiss suddenly curtsied in front of her sister. "A good morning to you, sister," she said with a smile.

"Your form could use some work," said Winter, unimpressed with her sister's performance.

Weiss looked down in defeat, feeling sad that her sister wasn't very impressed. Willow's paternal instincts kicked in as she turned to her eldest daughter. "Oh, Winter, come now. Today's not one of the days you need to be serious all the time."

Winter took her mother's words and acted accordingly. Turning to Cinder, she formed a small smile. "Happy Birthday, Cinder. How have you been?" she asked.

"Thank you, Winter," Cinder said with a smile as she sat down. "Surprisingly, I've been really busy today." Her present company, excluding Willow, joined her at the table and began to drink their tea. "Dad gave me this series of tests to do before coming here. They were hard, but it was still a good workout."

Winter smiled at Cinder's success, feeling pride that she was still as strong as ever. "I can imagine," she confessed. Of course, being a daughter of a Mandalorian and a potential student at Beacon Academy made training serious and arduous. And she had been training too, and it would soon be put to good use.

"What about you?" Cinder asked after putting down her cup. "How have you been doing?"

"Fine, thank you. I've mostly been practicing my combat and teaching Weiss how to use her-" She suddenly stopped talking and turned to Weiss, who was drinking her tea. "Must you slurp like a savage?"

Weiss suddenly stopped drinking her tea and looked at her sister. Putting down the cup, Weiss raised a napkin and dried her mouth, feeling upset that she made another mistake.

Cinder noticed this and looked at Weiss. "I'm not sure I liked it either, Weiss," she said. When the little girl turned to the teenager, she saw a cup raised to Cinder's mouth. "If you're going to slurp... you can at least do it right." She suddenly took a big slurp of her tea, louder than what Weiss did a few seconds ago.

The slurp and Winter's annoyed face made Weiss burst out laughing. Given how serious Winter was, Cinder always put in an effort to make her and Weiss laugh. Although she succeeded with Weiss, Winter wasn't very amused.

"I see someone still needs to learn their manners," Winter said calmly.

Cinder stopped slurping and put down her cup. "It could be worse, Winter," she said. "At least I don't burp after taking one sip."

Heat rose to Winter's face as she looked away. "It was one time!" she defended herself, still embarrassed that the incident happened when General Ironwood came to have dinner at the manor. And even worse, Cinder and her father joined them, and she made sure to never forget that night.

As Cinder and Weiss laughed at the memory, they heard a new voice behind them. "I still regret not seeing it for myself."

Turning around, Cinder saw a blonde boy slightly taller than her in a gray dress shirt and black dress pants standing at the door. "Korkie!" Cinder shouted as she stood up to greet her long distance boyfriend. The couple shared a quick kiss before sitting down again.

"Happy Birthday, Cinder," Korkie said with a smile. "I'm sorry we haven't seen each other in a while. Auntie Satine's been needing my-"

"Korkie, it's fine. We talked about it, family comes first. If anything, I should apologize for not coming to Mistral more often."

"Thank the Gods we can still talk via the CCT."

The couple shared a short laugh before Weiss asked Winter a question. "Well, now that everyone's here, I think we can start. Right?"

"I don't see why not," Winter replied.

Cinder looked back at the sisters, who pulled out two small bags under the table and handed them to Cinder. "Oh, you shouldn't have," she said with a smile.

"Cinder, it's your birthday," Weiss reminded her. "It's a tradition to give gifts."

"She's right," said Winter. "We don't mind at all. Weiss, would you like to go first?"

The young girl nodded and handed Cinder her bag. Gently reaching inside, the teenager pulled out a small hand mirror. The design was more than beautiful, and the golden metal showed how expensive it really was. Cinder looked into the mirror and fixed her hair. "Oh, wow," she said. "Thank you, Weiss."

"You're welcome," Weiss said as she made some room for Winter to give her gift to Cinder, which came in a larger bag.

Gently taking out the wrapping paper, which revealed a red bunch. Taking it out, the bunch unfolded to reveal a red dress with golden accents on the sleeves and chest. Standing up, Cinder put the dress against her chest to see that it would be just above her knees, so wearing some black shorts with it would be a good idea.

"The dressmaker told me it would be suitable for combat," said Winter. "So you can wear it anytime you like."

Cinder smiled and picked up the hand mirror. Moving it away as far she she could, Cinder gained a glimpse of what she would look like in the dress. And she thought she looked great. "Red was always my color," she said as she gently folded the dress and put it in the bag next to her chair. "Thank you, Winter."

Just as Cinder put the mirror back in the other bag, Korkie presented her with a small box with a ribbon. Smiling at her boyfriend and taking the box, Cinder opened it to reveal two earrings, each of them consisting of a golden loop with a black diamond hanging on the end.

"Korkie..." Cinder said as she marveled at the design. "They're beautiful." She quickly put them on her ears, which she pierced when she was thirteen.

"The black diamonds reminded me of those shoes you wore the night of our first dance," Korkie admitted. "I always thought they stood out with the dress, and I figured these would be a good match."

Cinder smiled even wider at the memory, remembering how special the night was for the both of them. And give that Korkie wanted a lasting reminder of their first dance, she knew how much the night meant to him as well. "Oh, Korkie," Cinder said as she placed a kiss on his cheek. "Thank you so much. I love them." Korkie began to blush as he smiled, causing Weiss to giggle. Winter rolled her eyes but still smiled at the public display of affection before standing up.

"Would anyone like some more tea?" she asked. "I can ask Klein to-"

A low flying airship suddenly made its way above the garden, causing everyone to look up into the sky. The airship revealed itself to be a Manta, and it landed right next to the Razor Crest. After they all shared a quick glance at each other, Cinder and everyone else ran over to see what was going on.

Just as they reached the landing pad, a uniformed officer exited the airship and saluted the group. Everyone was unsure what to do or think until the officer spoke. "Greetings, Cadet Schnee."

Cinder and Korkie looked back at Winter with widened eyes. "Cadet?" Cinder asked. Judging by the state of surprise she was in, Winter wasn't expecting this visit at all.

"I... Um..." Winter quickly stood at attention and saluted the officer. When his hand dropped, she lowered hers. "What's going on? I don't ship out for another two weeks."

"Ship out?" Korkie whispered to Cinder. But his girlfriend could only shrug in response, given that she had no idea what was going on.

"Indeed," said the uniformed officer. "But General Ironwood has personally chosen you for an assignment." Moving towards the ship, he looked back to Winter. "Please, follow me." Winter looked back at her friends and sister, and wordlessly followed the officer into the ship.

Korkie and Cinder immediately looked down at Weiss. "What was that all about?" Korkie asked.

"Weiss, do you know anything about this?" Cinder asked.

"Um..." Weiss rubbed her arm and sighed. "I do, actually. Winter didn't want to share the news on your birthday, but she just got accepted into Atlas Academy. She's going to be a Huntress."

"What?!" Cinder and Korkie yelled, sharing each other's surprise at the news. Today was full of unexpected surprises for Cinder, and each one seemed more interesting and confusing than the last. But this one definitely took the cake, given that Winter was only fifteen and should be considered too young to apply at a Huntsmen Academy.

But that didn't stop her from feeling excited. "That's... great!" she said with a smile. "But I thought people weren't allowed to apply at a Huntsmen Academy until they were seventeen."

"That's what I said!" Weiss confirmed. "But the General said he got the idea from Professor Ozpin, that he was planning to accept someone a few years early. And after all the time he spent here, seeing Winter train, he wanted to give her the chance to join."

"Incredible," said Korkie. "Winter's going to be the youngest student in Atlas. Maybe even on all of Remnant."

"Wait, Professor Ozpin suggested this?" Cinder asked the younger Schnee. "When?"

"Winter said he wanted to do it a week ago."

"Who's the student? What's their name?"

"I don't know."

Korkie looked at Cinder. "You didn't hear about this?" he inquired.

"No, never." Cinder put a finger to her chin as she tried to figure out Ozpin's plans. "Maybe he's going to share with the whole school. Then again... classes started a few weeks ago, and-"

The sound of footsteps walking out of the airship caused everyone to look at Winter, who immediately made a request. "Korkie, Weiss, would you mind giving me a minute to talk to Cinder?"

Weiss and Korkie immediately had the same response. "Is everything okay?"

"Yes, I'd just like to speak with her alone."

Weiss and Korkie looked at each other, unsure what Winter wanted to talk about. Regardless, they agreed and decided to go wait inside for a few minutes. As soon as they left, Winter walked to up to Cinder. "So Weiss told you about my acceptance?"

"She did," Cinder confessed. "Winter, that's great news! Korkie was just telling me that you could be the youngest person to ever attend a Huntsmen Academy!"

"I've heard the same thing myself. I'm sorry you found out like this. I didn't want to, as most people would say... 'steal your thunder.'"

Cinder heard the same thing from Weiss, and she already knew what to say. "Winter, don't worry about that. Now we havetwo things we can celebrate!"

Winter rolled her eyes in amusement of the excitement, but quickly came back to reality. "Actually, this isn't really a celebration. I've been given a special assignment that I need to carry out while I'm learning at the academy. And I was wondering if you'd like to help."

"Me? Really?" Cinder had never thought she would be helping in a military mission, and she was having some doubts. "That's a great offer, Winter, but I don't know how I can help."

"Actually, it's not as difficult as you may believe. General Ironwood recently filled me in on the situation, but he believes you and your father already know about her."

"Her?"

Winter moved away from the ramp and featured towards the ship. "It's okay," she said. "Come on out." As soon as she said that, a new passenger of the airship emerged into the sunlight. Cinder and Winter were looking at a teenage girl with short, curly orange hair and green eyes wearing a gray blouse under a green and gray dress, right above her black boots.

At first, the girl seemed nervous, but she suddenly formed a wide smile when she saw Winter and Cinder. "Salutations!" she said in a jovial tone.

Before Cinder could say anything, she noticed that something about the girl seemed... familiar. She couldn't put her finger on it, but Cinder definitely felt that she saw her before.

Winter decided to explain further. "Cinder, allow me to introduce... Penny."

That's when Cinder's jaw dropped. Now she knew that she had seen the girl before. And she could only say one thing.

"...Incredible."

Two months ago

"So is there anything else I need to do? Or just keep it steady?"

"Keep it steady. You're doing good, we can go over taking off and landing when we get back."

"...Right. Sorry again about the takeoff. Hope it's not as bad as it sounded."

"We'll look once we land."

Djarin and Cinder were inside his ship, flying on a course to Atlas. At the moment, Djarin wasn't in the pilot's seat where he normally was. Instead, he decided to teach Cinder how to fly an airship. One would think that she was too young to drive, let alone fly an airship. But after a bounty hunt went wrong and Djarin could barely fly back to Vale, he realized it would be best if Cinder learned how to fly in case something similar happened.

And Cinder was doing a good job at keeping the airship steady, even moving it left and right. The one problem she had was taking it off the ground, where she scratched the landing gear on the ground. Because of that, Djarin said he would land once they reached Atlas.

And that time had just arrived, since the city in the clouds was straight ahead. But rather than fly to a landing pad in Atlas, Djarin directed himself towards Mantle. When he was advised to land in Atlas by the authorities, Djarin stated his business as a hunt for a bounty last seen in Mantle. With that, the authorities approved of his landing in Mantle.

"Doesn't look serious," Djarin said as he looked at the landing gear. "I may have to find someone to look at it, just to be safe." Looking into the sky, Djarin contemplated the idea of seeing Peli in Atlas.

"Dad, isn't that Pietro?" Cinder asked as she pointed across the street.

The Mandalorian looked up to see Doctor Polendina waving at a Faunus with a prosthetic right arm. He was actually sitting on something prosthetic himself, a chair with two walking legs in the front and wheels in the back. It had been a while since the two saw each other, Djarin hadn't been in Atlas in a while. In fact, he couldn't remember the last time he had come to Mantle, given that he never really wanted to return. He left with his family for a reason, and coming back only brought back bad memories.

"Maybe he can look at the ship before we go deeper in the city," said Cinder, who started running across the street. "Doctor Polendina!"

"Cinder, wait a minute!" Djarin called to her, but to no avail. Cinder had already entered the house that Pietro had walked into, and Djarin was already regretting the fact that he came here in the first place. Nevertheless, he followed Cinder inside to find her talking to Pietro.

"Ah, yes, yes," the old man said as he pushed a stack of papers to the side of a desk he was sitting behind. "Have we met?"

Cinder was confused that Pietro could forget her, it had only been a few months since they last spoke. Cinder visited Winter one time while Pietro was overseeing some upgrades to the Schnee Manor's generator. So she decided to jog his memory. "We met when I was kid," she began. "You remember. In Nevarro?" Cinder turned to see Djarin in the doorway. "Maybe you remember my father?"

Pietro turned to the door and squinted. After a few seconds, Pietro smiled. "Mando!" he greeted his acquaintance before turning back to Cinder. "And Cinder, yes! Sorry I didn't recognize you, my memory isn't exactly what it used to be."

"It's okay. It's been a little while since we saw each other."

"Same with me," said Djarin. He walked over to the desk while looking around the room. "Sorry for coming in like this, Pietro. But I was hoping you could take a quick look at my ship's landing gear. It got scratched when we left Vale." Cinder chuckled out of embarrassment, since the incident didn't leave her mind.

"Not at all," the old doctor said as his chair moved towards the door. "I needed an excuse to get out of the-" His chair suddenly stopped moving, as one of the back wheels suddenly became stuck. After picking up a wrench off the table and tapping the back of the chair, it suddenly began to move. "Looks like I'll have to look at this thing again. Might have to give it an upgrade."

"Are you okay?" Cinder asked. "Last time we saw you, you had a cane."

"Oh, I had a little accident in the lab. I wasn't hurt, but I realized that a man my age can't do this kind of work while standing." Pietro tapped the chair with his hand. "So I made this."

"You couldn't use a wheelchair?" Djarin asked, not seeing the need for something creative to a practical problem.

"I could, but I wanted to do something a little more. I've had this idea in the back of my head for a while. Maybe you want to hear some more?"

Cinder was about to take the offer, but Djarin answered before her. "We just need to look at the landing gear."

"Oh, right!"

Pietro made his way outside the door with Cinder and Djarin right behind him. Just as she walked outside, Cinder heard what sounded like a sigh escape Djarin's throat. "Dad, are you okay?" Cinder asked. "If you're mad about the landing gear, I can pay in case Pietro needs to-"

"Hey, no," Djarin quickly answered. "I'm not mad, I just... Can we just... not go back inside?"

"Huh?" Cinder looked back at the house Pietro had made into a pharmacy, unsure why Djarin didn't want to go back. But she decided not to ask. "Um... okay. We can leave once Pietro's all done."

"Thank you."

Djarin and Cinder walked across the street to find Pietro looking at the landing gear. "Uh, looks a little scratched," he said as he leaned towards one piece. "But I don't think you need to worry about it."

"Are you sure?" Cinder asked.

"Oh, it'll be fine. Feel free to buff out the scratches, but it should still land okay."

"Thank you," Djarin said. "Cinder, the police station's not far. We can check in before-"

"Oh, Mando!" Pietro called out as his chair made its way towards the Mandalorian. "Before you go, there's something I want to talk to you about."

"If it's about the landing gear, I can talk to you after-"

"No, it's actually about something else. I know you must be busy, but I feel that it's important to you."

"...What is it?"

Pietro cleared his throat before talking again. "I'm actually glad Cinder here reminded me about Nevarro. Do you remember IG-11?"

"The bounty hunter droid?" Djarin asked. "I remember. What about it?"

"Before Major Gideon was arrested, General Ironwood was hoping I could rebuild him, make him look after Mantle. He was planning to send Atlas' Huntsmen and Huntresses to find Gideon, leaving Mantle defenseless. So he asked me to make something that would protect Mantle until they came back."

"But he's in prison. Atlas arrested him in Argus."

"Right, so our project was put on hold. But a little while ago, some of the tundra's Grimm have managed to find ways to sneak past Mantle's defenses. About a month ago, the Council brought this issue to General Ironwood, who told me that he wanted to start the project again."

"What were you thinking?" Cinder asked. "Put more defenses where the Grimm have been getting in?"

"We've tried that, but they just find new ways of getting inside."

Djarin wasn't seeing how he was involved in these problems, so he wanted to find out. "Are you asking if I can help you?" he asked.

"No, not exactly," Pietro replied as he took out his Scroll. "I began to make plans for a new protector, one that's based on IG-11. Have a look."

Cinder gently took the Scroll and looked at an image of a girl with her arms extended, with a list of things she was supposed to have and do. After looking at the list, Cinder looked at the top to see the project's name.

"P.E.N.N.Y?" Cinder read out loud. "Doctor Polendina, what is this, exactly?"

"Well, IG-11 showed promise as Mantle's protector. But I was thinking the city could have something less intimidating, something they can actually admire. This kind of thinking turned into P.E.N.N.Y, a synthetic person that can do more than he could."

"Wow. An advanced, friendly robot protecting the city? That would be... incredible."

Djarin had to admit, the project sounded like an advancement in Atlesian technology. But there was still something that he wasn't understanding. "It looks like you have everything you need to build it," he said. "But why are you telling me this?"

"Well, you weren't the only one who approved of my design," Pietro said as he took back the Scroll. "General Ironwood gave me permission to start building a prototype. For building material... he gave me Beskar."

Cinder gasped when Pietro revealed this, unable to believe that there was still some unused Beskar left on Remnant. While she was speechless, Djarin found himself able to speak.

"Have you and General Ironwood been in communication with each other?" Djarin asked. "Regarding... P.E.N.N.Y?"

"He's been wanting me to keep him updated, yes," Pietro replied honestly.

A plan began to form in Djarin's mind. "Cinder... I need to stay with Pietro a little longer," he said. "Maybe you should go wait in the ship."

"Wait, what?" Cinder turned back to Djarin. "But Dad-"

"Cinder." Djarin looked into her eyes. "Go wait in the ship."

"..."

Without another word, Cinder did as she was told. It was easy to see that her father was upset about this, and he didn't want her to get involved. And Cinder could tell it was even more serious when another airship landed close to the pharmacy a few minutes later. Cinder recognized the passenger who stepped out of the ship as General Ironwood, who didn't seem too happy when he saw Pietro with the Mandalorian. Even though the cockpit was high above the ground, Cinder could hear two people arguing. It got loud enough for Cinder to notice a few words from both Ironwood and Djarin, and they weren't nice at all.

But by the moment she prepared for a fight, Ironwood seemed to have calmed down and led Djarin to his ship. Djarin put a hand up to show Cinder that it was going to be fine.

"Mando... I admit, I wasn't going to tell you about this," Ironwood confessed. "But I truly think that making a protector out of Beskar will protect the city for generations. It's stronger than most metal, it doesn't rust easily, it doesn't-"

"Belong to you," Djarin said for the hundredth time.

Ironwood sighed before replying. "I see how much this means to you, and I think you see how much this means to me. So... I want to make a deal."

"Does it involve returning the Beskar?"

"Not all of it, but yes."

"...I'm listening."

Present day

Cinder walked up the ramp to get a closer look at Penny, taking in every detail. "So... you're really-?"

"Yes, ma'am!" Penny said as she tapped her head with her fist. The sound of metal knocking on metal filled the air and confirmed that there was more to Penny than met the eye.

When Cinder first heard of this project, she thought the idea was merely fun to think about. But to think that the idea was now a reality filled Cinder with excitement.

"Wow," she slowly said. "I never thought... I never imagined..." Cinder quickly realized that she was being rude and that Doctor Polendina said he needed to be sensitive with Penny, so she decided to treat her more respectfully. "Penny, it's really nice to meet you."

Cinder extended her hand, which caused Penny to gasp in excitement and grab Cinder's hand. Shaking it up and down with a firm grip, Penny spoke again. "It is such a pleasure to meet you as well, Cinder!"

As the two broke their grasp, Cinder silently activated her Aura to block out the pain the metal grasp had dealt. Once she felt better, Cinder turned back to Winter. "So, you know that Penny's... special?"

"I do," Winter answered. "Only a few people in Atlas know, and I was honored when General Ironwood chose to tell me. And to assign me as her partner."

"Partner? For what?"

This time, Penny answered for Winter. "I will be fighting in the Vytal Festival tournament!" With a salute, Penny made another declaration. "I'm combat ready!"

Cinder suddenly remembered something else she saw in Penny's designs. "That's right! Doctor Polendina mentioned you could defend yourself and others." Cinder looked back to Winter. "But the tournament? Are you sure that's a good idea?"

"Penny has passed all combat tests against humans and Grimm," Winter assured her friend. "At the end of the tournament, General Ironwood will announce her real nature and her title as the Protector of Mantle."

"Okay, but why wait after the tournament? Why not show her combat results to the world now?"

"The tournament will be proof of her potential. But more on that later. Since the festival will be held in Vale, I was hoping you could help me keep an eye on Penny, perhaps keep her company."

Cinder had to admit, she liked the sound of that. "I don't mind at all!" she said with a smile. "I'd like to have some friends close to me, even though we're different."

Winter smiled once again. "Thank you, Cinder. But just remember that you and your father are the only people that know-"

Penny suddenly cut off Winter as she stared at Cinder. "What did you call me?" she asked.

"Huh?" Cinder was confused by what she meant, and her first assumption was calling Penny "different." Realizing how that must have sounded, Cinder immediately tried to correct her mistake. "Oh, I'm sorry! I didn't mean it like-!"

"You called me 'friend!'" Penny said with enthusiasm, apparently ignoring what else Cinder had said. "Am I really your friend?"

Cinder calmed down and realized the opportunity before her. "Sure! Most of my friends live in other Kingdoms, so making some new ones would be-"

Penny suddenly began to laugh and become overjoyed. "Sensational! We can paint our nails, and try on clothes, and talk about cute boys!"

Winter was starting to grow more than a little tired of Penny's enthusiasm, but Cinder was enjoying it. She had never met someone like Penny, her nature and unexpected emotional stability made Cinder even happier. "I see Doctor Polendina's taught you a lot." She then took Penny's hand and walked towards the manor. "And if it's cute boys you want to talk about, we can start with my boyfriend."

After introducing Penny to Weiss and Korkie, Cinder spent the next hour sharing stories of Beacon and listening to the stories of her friends. After realizing that Djarin was probably waiting to meet her, Cinder thanked everyone for the gifts they gave and said her goodbyes. She then flew back to Beacon, thinking about everything that happened today. It was clear that her birthday was more eventful than she expected, but she found it enjoyable. All she wanted now was to spend the rest of the day with her father, watching Vale prepare for the Vytal Festival.

The flight wasn't very long, and Cinder was careful to land theRazor Crest near the faculty dorms. She then sent a text to Djarin, saying that she was back at Beacon. He responded in less than a minute.

"Are you ready to go to Vale?"

Cinder answered immediately, starting a text conversation with her father.

"Sure. Do you want to fly down there or go by your Semblance?"

"Semblance. I actually want to see you in the room before we go."

"Be right there."

Cinder put away her Scroll and made her way back to her room, knocking on the door. "It's open," Djarin called out on the other side. Cinder opened it to see Djarin move to the side of the room. "How was your time in Atlas?" he asked.

"Pretty good," Cinder answered. "You won't believe what happened to-" Her eyes suddenly fell on a large sack in the middle of the room. "What's in the bag?"

"The reason I've been going out a lot. It's for you."

Cinder looked down at the bag and moved closer to it. Just as she was about to open it, Djarin gently grabbed her hand before talking again. "Cinder... First off, I'm sorry about keeping what happened in Nevarro a secret."

"It's fine," Cinder said sincerely. "It's like you always said, expect the unexpected. It was a good exercise, really."

"Actually... I wasn't completely honest with you."

Cinder stood up straight and moved away from the bag. "What do you mean?" she asked.

"What you went through was something every Child of the Watch does in their life," Djarin explained. "It wasn't an exercise, it was a rite of passage. Something that you passed, something that made me more than proud of you."

Cinder began to feel a heat rise to her face. "Thanks, Dad." Djarin rarely used that phrase during Cinder's training, so she always felt a sense of satisfaction whenever he said it. "But why didn't you tell me? Were you afraid I might get nervous?"

"That was one of the reasons, yes. When I was tested, I threw up once or twice." Cinder giggled at her father's misfortune, and began to understand that she may have done the same thing, given all that she did in Nevarro. "But the other reason was that you earned something today. I wanted to keep your reward a surprise."

Cinder looked back at the sack, realizing that her reward was inside. She immediately grew excited at the chance to see what she exactly earned. Maybe it was a new weapon, or maybe it was something that survived Mandalore. Her excitement caused her to quickly open the top of the sack.

That was when her heart skipped a beat.

"Wh-What?" Cinder whispered as she marveled at the sight of the sack's contents. Carefully reaching into the bag, the teenager pulled out a chrome helmet with a narrow and curved "T" visor. She peered into the bag to see a chest plate, two pauldrons, gauntlets, and kneepads. All metal and brand new. As she felt the helmet's metal, the Maiden began to feel a sense of familiarity. She turned to Djarin with widened eyes. "Dad, this is... Is it really-?"

"Beskar," Djarin confirmed. "The reason I've been going out is because I've been going to Atlas. Do you remember that project Pietro wanted to use Beskar for? After seeing him, I talked to Ironwood about reclaiming it. It took a while and some help from Ozpin, but he promised that if I did a few favors for him, he would pay me in Beskar."

"..."

Cinder kept staring at the helmet, almost hypnotized by it. Djarin could only assume she was still listening, so he explained the rest of his story.

"When I had enough to make a full cuirass, I asked the Armorer if she could make it for you. She said she would, but only if you passed those tests."

"..."

Djarin rubbed the back of his head, feeling nervous about Cinder's silence. But since he forgot he was wearing his own helmet, he was still uncomfortable. "I... hope you like it. There's also some paint in the bag, if you want to-"

"I love it."

Djarin looked back to Cinder, where she made her declaration more audible. "I love it, Dad," she declared with a wide smile. "It's perfect. You really did all of this to give me my own armor? It's really mine?"

"It's yours, nobody else's," Djarin assured her. "Most Mandalorians have their armor passed down from their ancestors... or taken off the bodies of whoever didn't survive. I wanted your set to be special, like mine."

Cinder's eyes began to water. That water poured down her cheeks as she dropped the helmet back in the bag and quickly pulled Djarin in a hug. "Thank you!" she cried. "Thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you!"

Djarin returned the hug and began to share Cinder's happiness, glad that she liked her reward. He was proud that she was able to pass her challenge, and even more proud that he was able to share this moment with Cinder.

"I can't wait for you to try it on," said Djarin. "Once we come back from Vale, we'll see how it-"

"Vale?!" Cinder backed away. "Who cares about Vale?!" Grabbing the bag, Cinder quickly made her way to the bathroom. "I'm trying it on right now! Don't go anywhere!"

Djarin was happy that Cinder was excited about her armor. And he was even more happy to know that all of his efforts paid off in the end. Even though he had no doubt Cinder would pass her trials; he couldn't help but feel excited for the first time in years. And now he was prepared to show Cinder how the armor can be used in battle.

*CRASH*

"Oops!" Cinder called out from the bathroom. "Hang on, I think I... No, that's not right."

Djarin gently knocked on the door. "Do you need some help?" he asked. "It's hard to put on for the first time."

"No, it's okay! I almost-!"

*CRASH*

"Oops! Okay... maybe a little help."

Djarin walked into the bathroom and helped Cinder put on her armor. The last piece, the helmet, she was ready to put on in the mirror. Once she did, Cinder couldn't stop staring at the work of art in the reflective glass.

"Amazing," she said, looking over each piece. "It's feels a little heavy..." Cinder suddenly used her powers to float in the air, fire underneath her. "But I could get used to this."

"That's a good look for you," said Djarin. "You normally have to practice with a jetpack before wearing one, but your powers can make up for that."

"It feels lighter in the air." Cinder moved to the window and opened it.

"You feel like going for a test run?"

"I have a good idea for a challenge." Cinder quickly flew back to Djarin and tapped his chest. "Tag! You're it!" She then flew out the window and into the sky.

Djarin quickly ran over to the window. "So that's how you want to play it, huh?" Jumping out, Djarin activated his jetpack and flew into the sky, easily spotting Cinder. When he came close to tagging her, Cinder easily moved and dodged in the air, courtesy of all the training she had with Ozpin. After dodging a fourth time, Cinder lost sight of Djarin.

"Tag."

Cinder spun around when something touched her back. Quickly realizing that Djarin had used his Semblance to catch up to her, Cinder tried to tag him again before he could disappear. After she failed, she moved as fast as she could to tag him again, but Djarin kept disappearing.

However, she began to see his Aura flicker once he was close to the ground. "I have you now," she whispered as she flew towards the ground. As soon as she tagged him, Cinder lost her balance and fell to the ground, rolling a few times.

"Cinder!" Djarin cried as he flew to the ground. As he ran up to her, Djarin saw her come off the ground and brush her armor. "Are you okay?"

"Fine," she replied calmly. "I didn't even have to use my Aura. The armor works great." Cinder removed her helmet and let her hair fall out. "But maybe... I should cut my hair before I wear this again."

"Most Mandalorians do that, you're right. Your hair might block your vision."

Cinder made a twirl as she looked over her armor. "So is it like your armor? Does it have those little gadgets on the gauntlets?"

"Let me show you." Djarin gently took her right hand and moved to the side. "On this side you have your wire and flamethrower." Djarin showed her how to use both. "The flamethrower is there in case you overextend your powers."

"Oh, okay. That'll be useful." Cinder moved her left hand. "And in this one?"

"Form a fist and twist it counter-clockwise."

Cinder did as she was told and watched two circular, razor-sharp objects fire at the wall in front of her. "Whoa. That's amazing!"

"They're magnetic, too. Just walk over to them with your gauntlet extended, and they'll come back into place." After Cinder did as she was told and watched the discs return, Djarin had another thing to show her. Once he told her to press her left hand on her chest, they both watched a small blue shield appear. "This shield is Hard-Light Dust, and can block both Dust rounds and blasts. Use it sparingly, the Dust won't be there forever."

After Cinder removed the armor and put on the dress Winter got for her, she and Djarin explored the city of Vale. All across the city were welcome banners and concession stands being prepared. Cinder had only been to two Vytal Feativals as she grew up, so she knew about the dances, parades, and other activities that would occur soon.

But this was the first one that was being hosted in Vale. And Cinder had grown to love her new home so much that she was excited to see how Vale would appear with numerous people and activities. But that would have to wait, as the clan of two had just returned home.

"Dad, I really can't thank you enough for all this," said Cinder. "I've had a lot of birthdays, before and after we met. But I think this one was my favorite."

"Mine too," said Djarin as he rubbed Cinder's head. "And you really don't have to thank me. You earned this armor, it's yours."

"Yeah, but you got the Beskar. By working with Ironwood of all people. Brothers know he's not our biggest fan."

"Well, Ozpin's been sharing our fight against Salem with him. While he's not our biggest admirer, I figured it's time we start working with him. Besides, it was the only way to get more Beskar."

"Yeah, I guess so." Cinder was just about to move to her bed, ready to call it a night. But when she realized they were just talking about Ozpin, Cinder remembered something she wanted to ask her father. "Oh, I almost forgot. Did Ozpin say anything about a new student?"

"What?" Djarin asked, unsure what she meant by that. Beacon had plenty of new students every year, and this one was no different.

"Weiss told me that Ironwood was talking to Ozpin about a younger student joining Beacon this year. Someone below the age requirement."

"That's... news to me." Djarin had spoken with Ozpin a few times today, and this topic definitely wasn't shared. "Maybe Weiss misheard some-"

*KNOCK*

*KNOCK*

*KNOCK*

Djarin looked to the door, not sure who to expect on the other side. "Come in," he said. The door slowly opened to reveal Ozpin and Glynda Goodwitch, the latter carrying a electronic tablet in her hands. "Ozpin, Glynda," the Mandalorian addressed his allies.

"Good evening, Djarin," Ozpin said before looking to Cinder. "Good evening, Cinder. Apologies for arriving unannounced."

"It's okay," said the young Maiden. "Dad and I were just talking about you."

"Hm. Good things, I hope?"

Cinder chuckled before answering. "Actually, I wanted to ask you something. You know my friend Winter Schnee? I went to Atlas to see her today, and she told me that she had been accepted into Atlas Academy as a Huntress in training."

"Yes, James asked for my advice on the matter. Did Ms. Schnee say anything else?"

"I heard that you were planning on doing the same thing, letting a younger student attend Beacon. Is that true?"

Ozpin began to smile. "It is. I hope Ms. Schnee didn't give away my surprise for you."

Cinder's curiosity was growing by the second, and she was ready to ask Ozpin what he meant. But then, she remembered her training in the Emerald Forest. She knew that every student at Beacon Academy went through the same initiation, and there was only one thing they needed to do in order to pass.

Every student had to get a chess piece before being placed on a team. Which was exactly what Cinder did.

The Maiden gasped when she realized what was happening. "You don't mean... Professor, are you-?"

"Yes, Cinder. Professor Goodwitch and I wish to offer you the chance to attend Beacon as an official student." Ozpin turned to Djarin. "As long as your father sees-"

"I have no objections," Djarin declared. He then walked over to his daughter. "Cinder, I didn't know about this, but I think the chance would be great for you. Ever since you were thirteen, you've sat in classrooms to learn whatever you wanted to. And you once told me you wished you could do more with your power and training."

"And being a Huntress would give me a chance to do that," Cinder realized. With a smile, she hugged her father and he returned the hug. Cinder's excitement to be a student grew when she realized some of the classes wouldn't be hard for her. Just like Djarin said, she had been sitting in lectures and lessons whenever she wasn't training with her powers or she was just bored.

She was more than ready to take Ozpin's offer, but Cinder had one more question. "But... I was in the Emerald Forest alone. I thought students were supposed to work together, find their own teammates."

"That is the traditional approach, you're right," Glynda spoke up. "However, we have a team of first year students who are currently short one member. An accident with her weapon has left her with a broken arm and a few burns. She'll be attending Beacon next semester once she recovers."

"And the team of three?"

"Since the three girls are currently searching for a new member, I took the liberty of sharing some of your actions in the forest with them." Glynda was careful to leave out the parts where Cinder was forced to rely on her Maiden powers to survive. The rest of the footage was everything she learned from Djarin.

Cinder's eyes widened. "What did they say?"

Tonight was one of the rare times Glynda smiled at someone, as she too was happy about the news. "Yes."

A youthful Faunus was walking alongside a red and white Mandalorian through various dark halls. While hundreds of Grimm were roaring and crying out into the red sky, they were drowned out by the sounds of metal clashing on metal and people shouting in both rage and amazement.

"I never though I would see the day," said the red Mandalorian as he looked onto the group of armored humans and Faunus surrounding two Mandalorians sparring against each other. "I knew she was capable of almost anything, but I never thought she would be capable of helping me rebuild Clan Saxon."

"I told you to never underestimate Her Grace, Saxon," said the Faunus. "And that when she makes a promise, she keeps it."

"Indeed. I only wish it didn't take so long."

"I was getting impatient too." Just as she made her declaration, the Faunus watched one of the Mandalorians fall to the ground, suffering from a broken arm and broken jaw. Aurora and Gar Saxon looked at the weak recruit, disappointed at her failure. "But looking back on what I gained... it was worth the wait."

The Faunus pushed her open palm forward, releasing a beetle-like Grimm from her hand. The Grimm latched onto the former Mandalorian, which caused her to scream in agony. A blue light began to travel up the tendril that connected the beetle to Aurora. Once it let go, the Mandalorian could barely breathe. All she could do was look up as Aurora took a metal cylinder off her belt, watch a blue blade come into being and stab her through her chest.

As the Mandalorians around the fallen recruit laughed at her misfortune, Gar Saxon clapped his hands and watched Aurora rejoin him. "You've grown stronger with that," he said.

"Her Grace works in very creative ways," Aurora said as she placed the hilt on her belt again, walking down the halls with the leader of the Saxon clan.

"Is it true that it runs on Aura? And it's like the Darksaber?"

"It is." Aurora looked at the weapon again as she walked down the halls. "After Her Grace gifted me with her creation, I learned how to steal Aura and use it to make this thing work. My first tries and the majority of my training were... unsuccessful. And painful." Aurora grabbed the hilt and squeezed tightly on the metal. "But like I said, it was all worth it to get where I am now."

"You said Watts failed to give you the Maiden powers. Do you think you can take them now?"

"You bet your ass I will."

The walk ended in front of two wooden doors. Gar Saxon was about to knock on them, but the doors opened by themselves. The open doors revealed a large table with several empty chairs. At the farthest end of the table sat Salem, who gestured for her servants to enter.

"You summoned us, Your Grace?" Aurora asked calmly.

"I did," the Grimm Queen confirmed. "I understand you've made progress, Aurora." She turned to the Mandalorian. "You as well, Saxon."

"My clan is growing stronger every day," the Mandalorian confirmed. "And with the intel one of them provided us, we should expect our numbers to increase drastically."

"Wonderful." Salem gestured for the two to come closer. As they did, Salem spoke once more. "You should feel proud of what you two have accomplished, after all this time."

"We're more than proud, ma'am." Aurora kneeled down. "We're also ready. Let Saxon and I show you how we've grown, what else we can do."

Salem would normally take a small amount of offense to her servant attempting to make her own decision, but she could understand how eager she was to prove herself. One doesn't train and grow over an amount of years just to wait in the dark for something to happen. And now, the waiting had paid off.

"You'll be happy to know that I'm ready to grant your request, Aurora," said Salem. "I had a little talk with my prophet, who was also pleased with our progress." Aurora slightly grimaced at the mention of the man downstairs, the one that Salem held in such high regard for simply doing nothing but promise her glory. "He told me that our time to begin has come at last. Soon you will have the power of the Maidens and I will have my Relics." Salem turned to the Mandalorian. "And you will have your Darksaber, Saxon."

"Where do we strike?" Saxon crossly asked. "And when?"

"Beacon Academy. Now." Salem smiled wider at the idea as her thoughts turned inward. "This is the beginning of the end Ozpin. And I can't wait to watch you burn."

Neo-Devil · Sep 26, 2023

the 'Prophet' is Sidious, isn't it? If so, then Salem's getting played...hard, and doesn't even realize it. Sidious is exactly the sort of mastermind that would take full advantage of Salem, and make her think its all her idea, my guess is that he's likely after her power and immortality, to him Salem would essentially be another 'Master' to bring down to assure his own rise. So again, if this is Palpatine, then Salem's days may indeed be numbered.

TheCourtofTalons · Oct 3, 2023

Chapter 32: The Team

Cinder was having a very hard time sitting still. Not that she was uncomfortable, but that she was more than eager for her father to finish his work on her hair. Given that he had personal experience with cutting his own hair rather than having someone else do it, Djarin had become a natural when he was eighteen. So now, he found a good opportunity to use that knowledge to help his daughter with a new hairstyle.

"Okay, I'm almost done," the Mandalorian promised. "Just need to take care of this piece over your eye."

Cinder was looking in a mirror as she was sitting. Seeing what he was about to do, Cinder decided to stop him. "Actually, you can leave that," she said.

"Are you sure? It might be hard to see like that."

"I'm sure. My helmet can hold that piece back for me." Cinder moved her left hand to the piece in front of her eye. "Besides, I've always liked it like this."

"Alright then. I'd say we're about done." Djarin picked up the mirror Cinder had gotten from Weiss and held it close to the back of her head. And with the mirror on the wall in front of her, Cinder could see the front and back of her hair. "What do you think?"

"..."

Cinder carefully examined the new hairstyle her father created for her. Compared to the long, loose hair she had earlier, this was much shorter and almost looked like a boy's haircut. But Djarin was careful to leave a few pieces sticking out to look unique and to make it drop towards the left. And Cinder always liked how some of her hair covered part of her left eye.

"Looks great!" she said with a smile. Hopping off the chair and rushing to the door, Cinder looked back at the Mandalorian. "Can we go now? Can we go now?"

Djarin smirked as he rolled his eyes under his helmet. "Let's get your bags, first. Then we'll be good to go."

Ever since the day began, Cinder wanted to talk about nothing else than meeting her new teammates. A few days had passed since the preparations to make Cinder a student at Beacon Academy were put into motion. But now, everything was all set. Cinder had her own classes, schedule, uniform, and now she had a brand new dorm. All that needed to be done was to bring whatever she packed to the student dorms.

When they got to those dorms, Cinder examined every detail of the white halls with widened eyes and an even wider smile. She had explored the student dorms a few times before, but the different circumstances made the place feel like a whole other world to the teenager.

Djarin, although happy that Cinder was taking the first steps to be a Huntress, couldn't share his daughter's enthusiasm. He never thought he would see the day where Cinder would move out of her home and go to school all on her own. It may have been five years since the clan of two moved into Beacon Academy, but Djarin couldn't help but feel that Cinder was growing up too fast. For better or worse, things wouldn't be the same for the aging Mandalorian.

"Did you pack your weapons?" Djarin asked as he carried two bags.

"Yes," said Cinder, who continued to walk without looking back at her father.

"Your uniform?"

"Yes."

"Your textbooks?"

"Yes."

"Your armor?"

Cinder stopped walking. "For the millionth time, yes!" Cinder walked back towards Djarin. "Dad, don't worry. This is gonna be great!"

"I'm not worried."

"Yeah, you are." Cinder softly smiled as the two Mandalorians walked down the halls together. "I'm just as surprised as you are, this is a big deal."

"It's huge. And I'm proud of you. But..." Djarin quickly realized how he was sounding. "Sorry, it's nothing."

"No, it's okay." Cinder stopped walking. "You can tell me."

"I'm sorry, it's just... I don't think I was ready for everything to change so fast. Not just with you, but..."

Cinder frowned and put down her bags. "Is your Aura still acting up?"

"It's gotten better, but my Semblance is still depleting it faster than before." Djarin put down the bags and looked at his hands, remembering the day he learned that his Aura was depleting faster than before. "My age is starting to take my Aura. How long will it be until I can't hold my blaster? Until my armor slows me down?" Djarin looked back at Cinder. "Not long after that, I don't think I can-"

"Look after me?"

"..."

Cinder took a few steps away from her worried father and spread her arms. "Dad, that's one of the reasons why I'm here. Ozpin's been helping me with my powers, now Beacon's going to help me grow stronger in other ways. And I'll have my favorite teacher to help me too." The compliment made a dry chuckle escape from Djarin's throat. "Besides, there's more than one way for people to take care of each other. And whenever I need something, I'll be happy knowing that you'll be there for me."

"Always," the Mandalorian promised, feeling better about himself. "Sorry, I sound like a crazy person."

"Only a little," Cinder joked as she picked up her bags. "My room's just a few more halls down. Come on, old man." She began to laugh as she walked down the halls.

Djarin rolled his eyes at the comment. "Okay, that's not funny."

"Yeah, it is."

The clan of two had just arrived outside a white door at the end of the hall. Rather than walking inside, Cinder found herself unable to make a decision.

"I mean, I should just let myself in, right? It's gonna be my room. But what if the other girls are doing something? I'll just knock. No, wait. Maybe I should..."

Djarin could understand that Cinder was nervous at the moment. She was beginning to wonder what her team would be like. If they were friendly or not, if they were more organized or not, if they held her to a higher standard. Djarin would normally have these feelings about his daughter's well-being, but he had previously looked at her new team's files. It took some time, but he was confident that they would like Cinder.

To prove this point, Djarin softly knocked on the door.

Cinder nervously chuckled as she turned back to her father. "Thanks," she said.

When the door began to open, Cinder's nerves began to grow as fast as they initially came. She was so sure that the idea of a new, slightly younger girl being a part of a team of older students would make her teammates skeptical and maybe even hostile towards her. She expected her welcome to be halfhearted and not very sincere.

However, she was met with three smiling faces and an upbeat attitude from three taller girls.

"Hi there!" all of them said at once, expressing nothing but positivity towards their new teammate.

Once her worries were cast aside, Cinder slightly smiled and waved. "Hi," she quietly said. "It's nice to meet you."

One of the girls, a redhead in a red tank top and black dress pants, moved closer to get a better look at Cinder. "Wow," she said dramatically. "She really is younger. We might have a prodigy on our team!"

Another girl, a brunette in a light green summer dress and brown high heels, joined the first girl. "Whoa, I love your dress. Where'd you get it? Do you have a spare?"

Before the two girls could bombard Cinder with more talk, the third girl, a blonde in a blue shirt and jeggings, pulled them back by the back of their clothes. "Jeez, you two!" she said with a natural sense of authority. "Give her some space, she just got here!" Turning back to Cinder, she smiled again. "Sorry about that. We're just happy to meet you."

"Really?" Cinder asked, surprised at the idea of someone welcoming a complete stranger so easy.

"Of course. You saved us from missing a year at Beacon, didn't you?" The blonde looked behind Cinder to see the Mandalorian waiting to be let in. "Oh, right! You must be Mr. Darren, Cinder's father."

"Actually, it's Djarin," the Mandalorian corrected her. "But you're right about everything else. And you must be... Merriweather?"

"Call me Merri, everyone does." The blonde stepped aside. "Come on in."

Cinder and Djarin graciously accepted the offer and put the three bags onto an empty bed. Once Cinder brushed herself off of some dust at the bottom of the bag, she turned back to Merri. "So, are you the team leader?" she asked, judging by the state of authority she held over the other two girls.

"Well, yes and no," Merri explained. "Our last teammate was made leader by Professor Ozpin, but she's gone now." Merri pointed her thumb at the two girls behind her. "I'm mostly in charge of these two, since I'm the oldest. And I'm the only one with a head on her shoulders."

"Hey!" the two girls said simultaneously.

Cinder giggled at the joke as she extended a hand. "Well, it looks like you're our leader then. I'm Cinder, but I guess you already know that."

Merri took Cinder's hand and shook graciously. "Call me Merri." As she let go, Merri pointed to the girl in red. "This is my sister, Flora." She then pointed to the girl in green. "And my other sister, Fauna."

Rather than acknowledge their newest teammate, the sisters were examining Djarin and his armor.

"Is that real Beskar?" Flora asked.

"It is," Djarin asked.

"Does that mean you're a real Mandalorian?" Fauna asked, examining the helmet and marked pauldron.

"We both are," Cinder said. "I can, uh, see we need to get to know each other." Cinder turned to Djarin. "Dad, thanks for helping me with my bags. I can take it from here."

"Are you sure?" Djarin asked.

"Yeah, I wanna get to know everyone while I unpack."

Flora quickly took one of the bags. "We can help if you want," she offered. "It's not like we were doing anything else today."

"Easy with that," Djarin sternly said, remembering that Cinder packed her armor in one of the bags.

Flora looked up and smiled. "You got it, sir!" Just as she said that, the bag hit a bookshelf and knocked over a vase full of flowers. "...That didn't happen."

Cinder giggled and looked back at Djarin. Slightly lifting his helmet, she placed a kiss on his cheek. "We'll be fine, Dad," she promised. "I'll call you later tonight."

"Okay." Djarin made his way to the door while acknowledging the three girls. "It was... nice meeting all of you." Just as he opened the door and stepped in the hall, Djarin turned back to Cinder. "Classes start at nine tomorrow, don't be late."

"I won't."

"Call me if there's any trouble, I'll take care of it."

"I will."

"And... have fun."

Cinder smiled. "Try to enjoy yourself too, Dad. See you tomorrow." She softly closed the door and turned back to the three girls, who had placed all of her bags on an empty bed. Eager to start unpacking and getting to know her teammates, Cinder walked over and accepted Flora's offer for help.

When they saw how full Cinder's bags were, Merri decided that the entire room needed to be reorganized to help fit everything. Flora decided to help, leaving Cinder and Fauna to begin unpacking. And the first thing Cinder decided to unpack was her own Mandalorian armor, which had caught the eyes of the brunette.

"Oh. My. God!" she said as she examined the armor with her hands. "This is perfect! Look at the design, the detail! It looks like it can fit just about anyone!"

"Most Mandalorian armor is designed that way," Cinder explained, remembering how most Mandalorians wore very similar armor. "I've only met a few people who needed bigger or smaller armor." Cinder could see that Fauna was more interested in the design of the armor rather than the idea of it fitting anyone. "So, you seem to like how it's made."

"I do," said Fauna, who put down the helmet. "I'm actually kind of a fashionista. My sister's words, not mine." Fauna stood up and moved her hands across her dress. "I actually made this dress myself."

Cinder gasped as she looked at the detail of the dress, that it fit the teenager just right. And the decorated butterflies on it looked like a challenge to put on. "You made that?" she asked in awe.

"Took me some time, but yeah." Fauna twirled around and showed her work, which was almost seamless. "It's actually why I was curious about your dress. If I had to guess, you bought it in... Atlas?"

"It was actually a gift. But my friend got it in Atlas, you're right. How could you tell?"

"It's a little 'showy' to be from Mistral or Vacuo, not really their style. I would have guessed Vale, but that flower right there is the signature of an Atlesian designer."

Cinder looked at the blue-green flower on the right side of her dress, which was one of the features that stood out. While she always thought red was more of her color, she still liked the flower. And she didn't know that there were other clothes like hers that had a similar feature.

"Okay, this will be good."

Cinder turned around to see Fauna holding a metal stand with multiple beams. "This is a stand most designers have to put something big and heavy on," she explained. "We should be able to put the armor on it, given that you won't be wearing it very often."

"That... would be great!" Cinder said as she let Fauna put the stand down. "Thank you. I hope you don't mind sharing it, though."

"Oh, it's no big deal." Fauna began to carefully put the armor on the stand, making it appear that a person was wearing it underneath. "I was actually wondering if I could work on it while it's standing here."

Cinder put her helmet down and looked back at the older teenager. "Um, did you say 'work on?'" she asked, unsure what Fauna was saying.

"Yeah, to paint it over." Fauna reached into the bag where the armor used to be and pulled out a few cans of spray paint. "That's why you have these in here, isn't it? Besides, I never really liked silver." Fauna shuddered at the word.

"Oh," Cinder realized. "Oh, yeah!" Laughing, she pulled out more paint. "You're right, I've been meaning to paint it over. But we can worry about that once I'm done."

"Would it be okay if I helped? I kind of have a good eye for this sort of thing."

"Yeah, let's do it!"

Once the armor was set up, Merri and Flora had finished reorganizing the room. Despite her older sister telling her to wait, Flora had begun unpacking Cinder's second bag, which was mostly full of books. Cinder decided to help and get to know the eager teenager.

"So, Flora, where did you say you and your sisters were from?" Cinder asked calmly.

"Nowhere special, just a small village in Mistral," Flora replied.

"Anywhere I've heard of?"

"Well, do you know where Serenno is?"

"I've heard of it, I just know it's in Mistral."

"Well, we lived pretty close to it. About a day's walk."

"Oh, okay. That's nice."

"Not really. I never really liked Mistral."

Cinder chuckled. "You and me both. Other than the city of Mistral, the rest of the Kingdom isn't my favorite place to visit."

"Oh, so you're more of a city-girl, then?"

"You could say that." Cinder took out one more book and saw something in the bag that made her smile. "You could also say that I know someone special in the city." Cinder took out a framed photograph of her and Korkie together. Seeing how she planned to put it on her dresser, she decided to let her teammate know about him.

And the girl was even more enthusiastic than before. "Ooohhh, somebody has a boyfriend!" Flora said with a smile.

Cinder laughed as she walked over to her dresser and put the photograph down. "His name's Korkie. I met him when I was a kid."

Flora looked closer at the photograph. "Well, he's definitely got the looks."

"Not just that." Cinder joined her teammate. "He's talented, smart, and one of the nicest people I've ever met. He's training to be a politician, just like his aunt. And someone like him can definitely make a difference."

Flora laughed once more. "Well, I can see how much he means to you. But one thing you gotta do is know how much you mean to them as well. I've dated enough guys from the gym to know it's always about the looks."

"No arguments there." Cinder took off her earrings and showed it to Flora. "But given the cost and meaning of these earrings he got for me, it's good to know that I'm special to him too."

Flora looked at the earrings and trusted Cinder saying that they were expensive. "Damn," she said in awe. "Okay, I really gotta stop dating losers from the gym."

Most of the room was finished, and all that was left was to do was clean up from all the unpacking. Flora and Fauna decided to get some food to bring back, leaving Cinder alone with Merri.

"I should apologize about Flora and Fauna," said Merri. "It's easy for them to get excited, as well as go about people's business."

"Don't worry about it," Cinder said with a smile. "I'm actually glad they're like that. I was expecting some unease about someone like me joining you."

"Well, we didn't really like our last teammate that much. I don't know, she just seemed kinda off, y'know?" Cinder nodded as she put her Beskar blades next to her bed. "But Flora and Fauna seem to like you."

"That's good to hear. What about you?"

"Well, now I can finally get to know you." Merri sat on her bed, which was right next to Cinder's. "How about you tell me a little more about yourself?"

Cinder sat on her own bed and began to talk. "Well, I was born in Mistral, but I moved here after my dad found me. He got a-"

"Wait, I'm sorry." Merri put her hands up. "Did you say your dadfound you?"

"Oh... yeah. I was adopted."

"Oh, really? Wow, I never knew Mandalorians would be open to adoption."

"It's part of our culture." Cinder twirled her necklace. "Orphans and abandoned children that are found by older Mandalorians can join them. My dad was actually like that when he was a kid."

"Huh. So you never knew your parents?"

"Well... no." Cinder looked out the only window in the room. "I've actually been trying to find them."

"No luck?"

"Not yet. Dad's actually been helping, he was able to understand why I'm looking for them." Cinder dried her eyes. "But even after I find them, he's still going to be my father." The young Maiden suddenly got an idea. "You and your sisters seem like you have a whole family. What's it like?"

"Well, I guess our ideas of parents can be flipped." Merri looked down at her hands. "We knew our father, but he left us when we were little. He even left Mother to fend for herself."

"Oh." Cinder regretted what she said, about Merri's family being whole. "Sorry, I didn't-"

"You didn't know. And it doesn't really matter anyway. Mother always took care of us. Made sure we were properly fed, clothed, bathed, and so on." Merri began to laugh. "To this day, I don't know how she did it. Taking care of triplets by herself." She then put a hand to her chin. "Actually, some of our maids and servants helped her, but it was mostly-"

"What, did you say you had maids? And servants?"

Merri looked back at Cinder. "Oh, yeah! Our family was the ruling estate of the village. We lived in this huge castle, it must have built over a hundred years ago."

"A castle?"

Cinder had been at the Schnee Manor and Kyrze Manor enough times to know that they were unlike any normal house. But an actual castle? That made it sound like Merri's family was royalty rather than just rich.

That's when Cinder realized that Merri and her sisters might be in the same position as Winter.

"You know, you actually remind me of my friend, Winter," she said.

"Oh yeah?" Merri asked. "How so?"

"Winter's the daughter of the president of the Schnee Dust Company. She was born into fame and fortune, and now she's going to be a Huntress. She wants to prove that she's more than a name, and she feels that she can do some good as a Huntress."

"Sounds great." Merri looked down at her hands again. "But our reason for being here is different."

"Why's that?"

"It was Flora's idea. You see, Huntsmen and Huntresses are scarce in Mistral. Because of that, we lost Mother and the village to the Grimm."

Cinder softly gasped and covered her mouth in shock as Merri continued her story.

"After we escaped, Flora kept insisting that things would have been different if there were more Huntsmen or Huntresses in Mistral. It was really hard to disagree with her, so we decided to come here. It's not the life Mother really wanted for us, but we don't have a whole lot left. And who knows?" Merri stood up and walked to the side. "Maybe we can make some friends here that can learn about Mistral. Convince them to help."

Just as Merri finished her thoughts, she felt a tap on her shoulder. Turning around, she saw Cinder extending a hand. "Well, team leader... it looks like you have one now." The teenager smiled and shook Cinder's hand once more, getting the new team of students off to a good start.

The next day, Merri and Cinder helped Flora and Fauna get out of bed and get ready for classes. Merri had plenty of experience with her sisters sleeping in and Cinder would always wake up with Djarin to prepare for his classes. Once they woke up, everyone was able to comb and tie their hair, get their uniforms on, and begin the walk to class at eight-thirty.

But rather than talking about class, Fauna was more invested in the school uniforms everyone was wearing.

"I still like these uniforms," she said as she walked and looked at her clothes. "Skirt's a little shorter than I thought it would be, but a good pattern design. I can see Beacon really likes red and brown, the gold's a good color too."

"So what's your rating?" Flora asked.

"Probably a seven. The colors are good, but this shirt is really uncomfortable." Fauna tugged at the white shirt underneath her dark jacket. "I bet the boys don't have to deal with this."

Cinder turned her head as she continued to walk. "Just be glad you're not at Atlas. I heard their uniforms are tight in the crotch."

The sisters laughed at the idea and Fauna realized she could get used to the uncomfortable shirt. Merri looked back at her Scroll as she continued to walk. "Okay, so our first class is with... Professor Port," she said. She and her sisters groaned, which caught Cinder's attention.

"Let me guess," the new student asked. "You don't like his stories?"

"No," each sister replied at the same time.

"Does he really expect us to learn from what he says?" Flora rhetorically asked. "All he does is talk about how great he supposedly was back in the day."

"I'm pretty sure he's making some of them up," said Fauna. "I don't even know what a 'Megalodon' is, and I don't think he does either."

"He probably uses them to forget that he weighs over two hundred pounds," Merri suggested.

The triplets laughed at the joke, but Cinder didn't join in. "Come on, he's still a good teacher," she said in the man's defense. "I used to sit in classes like his while my dad was working. If it wasn't for his lessons, I probably wouldn't have passed initiation."

"Yeah, well... I need to see him in action before I believe everything he tells me," said Merri. "Let's see what story we're gonna hear today."

Professor Peter Port was standing in front of rows of students and behind a desk and chalkboard, filled with pictures of Grimm. The students who walked in had taken their seats, and Cinder was talking to Professor Port.

"I heard of your recent acceptance into Beacon, young lady," he said with a smile under his thick mustache. "Congratulations!"

"Thanks, professor," Cinder said with a smile. "Sorry I'm a little late, though."

"Oh, not to worry! Professor Ozpin and the Blair sisters explained their situation to me. I'm just glad to see a team of Huntresses back to full strength. Now, your team had to miss a few assignments like today's report, but they'll receive passing grades for them all once they're handed in."

Cinder looked over to Merri, who explained the situation. "He assigned us a report on rare Grimm last week, but we were still looking for a new teammate."

"..."

Professor Port looked at the clock on the wall, which showed that ten minutes had passed since the class officially started. Looking at the rows of students, the professor slightly frowned. "Strange... I thought there was more of them last time," he thought to himself. Nevertheless, he decided to begin his class before more time slipped away. "Settle down, everyone!" he ordered. "Ever since you've become students at Beacon, I've had the pleasure to share all of my stories and encounters with the most dangerous of Grimm!"

"Unfortunately," Flora whispered to Cinder and her sisters. Cinder was the only one who didn't laugh, as she was paying close attention to Professor Port, something she learned to do while listening to the long stories.

"Now today, I finally get to hear all of your Grimm slaying stories!" Professor Port moved a few feet from his desk. "Last month, I've asked each of you to speak with your teammates and discover which of you had the most dashing and daring Grimm encounters of your life! I know, the essay I assigned will count for your first project, but the remainder will be your presentation of your story and the details of the Grimm. Now then, who would like to go first?"

Cinder looked back at the Blair sisters, who shyly looked down at the wooden desk they were sitting at. Feeling bad that they would need to catch up on a lot of additional work and not wanting their grades to plummet, she wished that she could help. Suddenly, the new student had an idea, which caused her to raise her hand.

"Professor, we can present first," Cinder said with confidence.

The sisters looked back at Cinder with confusion, as did Professor Port. "Oh, uh... I thought you would need more time," he restated.

Cinder stood up. "Well, we haven't really... finished our essay. But we can do our presentation now. It still counts for our grade, right?"

"Why, yes!"

Seeing no problem with the idea, Professor Port opened the floor to Cinder, who walked up in front of everyone. As she made her way to the front of the room, she could hear people whispering at the rows in front of her. She couldn't hear exactly what they were saying, but she could make out parts of the questions. While some were wondering who she was and how old she was, others were saying they heard rumors that she was related to the Mandalorian combat instructor. Thinking about how she might stand out as both a younger student and Djarin's daughter, Cinder decided to clear the air.

"Um... Hello, everyone," she said as she rubbed the back of her head. "I'm Cinder, and yeah... I'm a little younger here."

"Are you related to the Mandalorian here?" one student quickly asked without thinking. Other students began nodding their heads, wanting to know as well.

"Now, now, everyone," Professor Port said as he tried to make his class stay focused. "Let's not get off topic."

"No, it's okay," Cinder insisted. "I am, actually. He's my dad."

"Whoa."

The entire class, excluding the Blair sisters, were captivated by the fact. Some of them asked more questions, mainly about her age or if being a Mandalorian meant she could come to Beacon earlier. Cinder was expecting a lot of questions, so she answered them to the best of her ability.

"You see, my dad and I live at Beacon. In the faculty dorms. I've been training with him and listening to lectures here for about five years now."

One student, a skeptical girl with blonde hair, decided to test Cinder's validity. "So, you said you lived here for five years?" she asked. "And that you've listened to lectures here?"

"Dad was usually busy with teaching," Cinder explained. "To pass the time, Professor Ozpin let me sit in most classes and listen."

"So you would know a thing or two about Grimm?"

"Between the classes and my fighting, yeah, I know some things."

"Okay..." The blonde put a hand to her chin and looked through her notes. "How many Beowolves usually consist of a pack?"

Professor Port was starting to get a bad feeling. "Now, young lady-"

"Five, at least," Cinder replied. "Five usually follow an Alpha."

The girl looked back at her notes, and saw that Cinder was right. "How many teeth does a Grimm usually have, and which are the strongest?"

"Thirty. The strongest ones are in the front of the mouth, they can pierce skin with just a small bite."

Some of the students whistled and nodded, impressed by the girl's knowledge. The skeptical one began to see that she knew the basics of Grimm, so she decided to see what else she knew. "Okay, that's pretty good," she began. "So, what did you say your report was about?"

Cinder cleared her throat and looked back at the entire class. "My team's report is on the Angler. A rare aquatic Grimm that lives in isolated bodies of water, a lake for example." She began to relax as she explained more about the Grimm. "It's also one of the largest fish on Remnant, roughly the size of an Ursa Major. All of it's teeth are sharp, not like the ones on a Beowolf or Ursa..."

Cinder continued her report on the Angler, and even explained her encounter with one. She explained that while she didn't have the necessary weapons to kill it, she was able to scare it off and wound it. As proof of her conquest, Cinder passed her Scroll around the room, which had a picture of her holding the two teeth she claimed before leaving Nevarro. And once she finished her report, Cinder was met with nothing but applause from the students and Professor Port.

"Bravo!" he exclaimed with pride. "Bravo! It appears we areindeed in the presence of a true Huntress-in-training!" Professor Port turned back to Cinder. "Now, I'll just need your essay a week from today, but I'm sure you've already earned an 'A' from that story."

"Thank you, sir," Cinder said as she made her way back to her seat. Her teammates congratulated her for the report and thanked her for making their work a little easier.

The room heard five more presentations before Professor Port dismissed the class. Cinder and the sisters were the last ones to leave, but they were stopped by the student who was skeptical of Cinder's potential.

"Hey," she said. "Listen, sorry about putting you on the spot like that. I kinda... judge a book by its cover."

"Oh, it's okay," Cinder said. "I get it, I was kind of expecting a lot of people to ask about me."

"Well, I hope it wasn't too bad." The girl reached into her book and pulled out a piece of paper. "Have you considered joining some of Beacon's clubs? We could use someone like you on the Debate Team." The girl pointed a finger at Cinder. "Just know that I play to win."

Cinder laughed as she took the paper. "Um, thanks. And yeah, I actually like a good challenge."

"Well, challenge accepted." The girl turned around. "I'll be waiting, new kid."

The rest of Cinder's first day was filled with familiar classes. From Doctor Oobleck's lectures of Remnant's history to Professor Greene's studies of stealth and security, she remembered what she heard when she was a child as well as learn a few new things. One such idea was Professor Peach teaching her students how to mix green, red, and blue herbs to treat wounds when an Aura was recharging.

Cinder was happy to have officially taken these classes for the first time. But now, just before they were supposed to be practicing their own sparring, Cinder and her team had one last class in the day; Combat Instruction.

"Come on!" Cinder yelled back to her team, who were far behind her. "Hurry up!"

"Wait for us!" Fauna yelled back at the girl who was running a million miles per hour. "She's really excited about this one, huh?"

"Well, it's taught by her dad," said Merri. "And it's about time we learn some combat again."

"And I didn't really like Professor Goodwitch teaching the class," said Flora. "A Mandalorian can definitely teach us a thing or two."

"Make that another good thing our leader's departure gave us."

"Amen to that."

Merri saw Cinder pacing in front of the doorway to another room, which she quickly ran into once she saw her team had finally caught up with her. The sisters followed her to sit on stone benches and look down on a large arena below them. After more students came in and filled they room, they were greeted by Din Djarin. Cinder used an incredible amount of willpower to contain her excitement, but couldn't help but squeal a little as her father waved to her. After that, she did nothing but listen to his speech about the importance of fighting without Aura.

"Professor Goodwitch has been teaching you how to utilize what you've learned about Aura and fighting at your previous combat schools," said Djarin, who stood right in the middle of the large space while looking at the students. "Now is the time to learn how to defend yourselves when your Aura breaks, when you can no longer use your Semblance to your advantage. In times like these, the only things that can protect you are your weapons and the lessons you'll learn with me."

The student Cinder met earlier, the blonde member of Beacon's Debate Team, raised her hand. "Professor, it seems you have firsthand experience with this kind of ordeal," she said. "But hasn't that armor been able to act as a second Aura for you?"

"Somewhat." Djarin pointed his thumb to his chest. "This armor is stronger than most, and can protect me from standard attacks and Grimm claws. But while it may give you the impression that Mandalorians are invincible, that isn't always the case."

"Maybe so, but how can we fight a Mandalorian? A broken Aura against a secondary Aura wouldn't end well."

"That's when you think outside the box. And learn to beat the man beneath the armor rather than the armor itself." Djarin looked over the crowd and saw that one student came prepared with armor of his own, in case he would be chose to fight in front of the class. "Maybe you could learn after a match with Mr. Auburn over there. Bring your armor with you."

"Yes, sir."

The two students moved down to the space where Djarin was and stood across from each other. "Remember, weapons and Aura are prohibited in this match. Rely only on hand-to-hand." The Mandalorian moved to the side of the room. "Begin."

The students raced towards each other, the girl sending strikes to the boy's face. But the armored student was prepared for strikes like these and used the pieces of armor on his arms to block each strike. The blonde, whose hands were beginning to hurt, decided to go for the legs and kick him off the ground. Unfortunately, he jumped in the air before her kick could make contact with him.

Unfazed, he sent a fist to her face, but she blocked this with her hands and kicked him in the chestplate. Slightly backing up, he caught his balance and ran towards the girl again. She was running out of ideas to fight, there didn't seem to be any place for her to land a good blow. And since she was trying to think of a plan, she didn't see two legs jump in the air and strike her to the ground. She hit her head hard on the stone floor, and didn't bother getting back up.

"That's the match," said Djarin, who put his hand towards the armored student to make him stay where he was. He then looked down to the blonde girl and helped her stand. "You can use your Aura now." A gold light shone from her body and she began to feel her head and hands feel better. As she healed herself, Djarin looked back at the students. "Making a new plan when your old one fails is essential, but you can't lose focus on your opponent while doing so."

"I'll remember that, sir," the girl said, nodded and began to leave with the armored student.

"Mr. Auburn, stay where you are."

The armored student stayed where he was while the girl went back to the stands. Djarin looked back to the students again. "Armor, especially in combat, gave Mr. Auburn two advantages. Not only to protect himself, but also to give the impression that it can't be broken. It's safe to say Ms. Gelb got this impression in her fight, but you cannot. That's why Mr. Auburn won't leave the area until he is beaten by one of you."

Djarin began to look around the room for volunteers. Naturally, Cinder raised her hand first with excitement. A few students raised their hands afterwards, and Djarin picked a man with gray hair. As he made his way down, Djarin used his screen gauntlet to type something onto the blue light. Once he put his arm down, Cinder felt her Scroll buzz. Taking it out, she saw a message from Djarin.

"Sorry, Cinder. I know how excited you must be, but you could beat this student in less than a minute. I need the lesson to be longer than that."

Cinder looked back to her father and nodded. As soon as he started the match, Djarin sent one more message to Cinder.

"I have a lesson planned tomorrow that you can help me with. I promise."

Cinder smiled at the last phrase, since she was unable to recall a time when Djarin broke a promise he made to anyone. However, she wanted a chance to prove herself sooner rather than later.

And she found her chance a few minutes later, when Flora leaned over to Cinder.

"That's the third student this guy's beaten," she pointed out. "And now he's calling on people who don't have their hands raised? What if he calls on one of us?"

Cinder looked back at her father, who was looking across the room. Realizing that her teammate may be right, Cinder knew what to do.

"Flora, you know how to fight, right?" Cinder asked calmly.

"Well, yeah," Flora replied. "I've been reading my combat textbook more than Merri or Fauna."

"Raise your hand. Fight that guy."

"What?" Flora looked down at the armored student. "But nobody can land a good hit on him."

"It's because he's focused, he knows where his opponent is going to strike. Make him lose that focus, and then hit him where he doesn't have any armor. Call him out, make him angry."

"..."

"And put him on the offensive. He goes on the defensive first, to weaken his opponent's fists. Trust me, it will work."

"..."

After the next match with the armored student finished without victory from a challenger, Flora raised her hand. Djarin hesitated before he chose her, since he saw her talking to Cinder just a moment ago. Nevertheless, he decided to let Flora come down and fight the armored student.

"Begin," he ordered.

The armored boy stayed right where he was, only raising his hands and getting ready to defend himself. Flora remembered what Cinder had told her, how he would go on the defensive. So she sent a couple of fists toward him, which he easily knocked away.

"Ugh!" Flora moaned as she looked at her hands. In a jovial tone, she began to talk again. "So mean!" The students sitting above her began to laugh, not expecting her to say something like that.

Even her opponent let a chuckle escape his throat. "You think that's mean?" he asked. "You haven't seen nothin' yet."

Flora took Cinder's advice once again by flinching her index finger towards her. "Then c'mere and show me more," she said.

Confidently taking the challenge, the armored boy ran towards Flora with an extended leg. Flora saw that he wasn't wearing a lot of armor on his upper calf, so she quickly sent a punch to its side, making the leg uncomfortably numb. He put his leg down and attempted to walk the pain off while sending two fists towards Flora.

Unable to do anything to his arms, Flora dodged each strike as she looked for an opening. After her opponent sent one more punch, Flora moved to his back and kicked him. The force of the attack and the weight of the armor made the boy fall to the ground.

"Oops!" Flora said sarcastically. "Did I do that?"

The redhead was starting to annoy the armored student, which also made him start to get angry. Quickly getting off the ground, he sent his fists and legs at the teenage girl. They made contact a couple of times, but she pretended not to notice.

"Does someone have a fly-swatter?" Flora asked. "I keep feeling there's this tiny, plastic fly-swatter hitting my face." Of course, the punches made her body sore, but he didn't need to know that.

The audience laughed once more, making the student even more angry than before. His strikes became more reckless, and Flora was finally able to strike at exposed pieces of his body under the armor. The final strike was to the boy's unprotected face, which made him fall to the ground.

"That's the match," said Djarin, walking closer to Flora. "Well done, Ms. Blair. Making your enemy lose focus will end with a swift victory."

"Thank you, sir," the teenager said with a nod.

The armored student stood up and brushed dust off his armor. "Didn't think you had it in ya," he said, slightly complimenting the girl while disbelieving what he experienced.

"Like I said, Mr. Auburn, losing focus will only result in defeat," said the Mandalorian. "Ms. Blair was able to beat the man rather than the armor by doing what she did."

"I'll remember that, sir." Both students walked towards the door, leaving Djarin to dismiss the class while hoping everyone learned something today.

As the students were dismissed, they began to congratulate the armored student for lasting as long as he did and Flora for beating him. Cinder shared her congratulations as well, and then felt a tap on her shoulder. Turning around, she came face-to-face with the older blonde from earlier.

"I saw you talking to your teammate before her match," she said. "It doesn't take a genius to see that you gave her a good strategy."

"Well... just a pointer or two," Cinder shyly replied, unsure if she should be sharing the credit for Flora's success. And she was even more uncomfortable about the praise the girl was giving her.

The girl handed her a small card. "I have a lot to learn from you then. Maybe we can make some fun out of the lesson." With a wink, the girl walked away and left Cinder to look at the card. The contents were her name, Lilith Gelb, and her number.

And at the end of the number was an "X" and "O."

A heat rose to Cinder's face as she quickly put the card away. "Did I just get hit on?" she wondered as the heat disappeared.

"She wasn't the only one who saw you talking to Flora."

Cinder turned around to see Djarin raise a hand and playfully rub her head. "I'm glad to see you've learned a lot about strategy," he said.

"I had some great teachers," Cinder said with a smile, reflecting on all her lessons with her father as well as what she learned before becoming an official student at Beacon.

The last thing Cinder needed to do on her first day was some self-directed sparring. She and her team did it together and shared pointers with each other. Flora was even able to use her previous match to teach her sisters a few things about hand-to-hand combat.

The sparring even gave them a chance to show off their weapons. Cinder brought her black Beskar swords while each sister brought a handheld sickle.

"We grabbed these sickles when we left home," Merri explained. "When the Grimm came for us."

"They're good with Beowolves, but we couldn't really cut through an Ursa or Centinel," Flora added in.

"So we had a blacksmith in Mistral make them something special," Fauna said as she held out her hands.

Merri and Flora handed each of their sickles to Fauna, who combined them at their handles.

*CLICK*

Fauna took a few steps back and held out the three sickles. Combined, they looked like a large throwing-star and Fauna was prepared to throw it like one. Moving her hand back, Fauna threw the weapon into the air, which cut part of the upper walls and target dummies once it came down. It was so fast that Cinder had to duck down and watch it fly into Flora's hand.

"We can throw it and catch together," said the redhead. "When one of us is in trouble, we can throw our weapons and help her."

"That's amazing!" Cinder said as she got a closer look at the weapon.

"We call it the 'Flying Wing,'" Merri explained. "It's kind of simple, we know. But when we first threw it, we thought it looked like this giant wing in the sky."

"Huh." Cinder looked back to where Fauna threw the weapon. It was hard to explain, but the color and the speed of the flying weapons indeed made the spinning object look like the wing of a bird.

"Does your weapon do anything else?" Flora asked.

Cinder smiled as she combined her swords to make her bow. Taking a few arrows, she fired one after another at a practice dummy in the training room.

"Cool," said Fauna. "And nice aim, too."

"Thanks." Cinder took the bow apart and looked at her swords. "After living at Beacon for a month, I learned how students gave their weapons names. After that, I started calling them 'Midnight.'"

"Fitting name," said Merri.

"And that's not all." Cinder raised her palm towards the sisters, where it began to glow orange and give off smoke. "This is my Semblance, I call it 'Scorching Caress.'"

The sisters moved closer to look at the glowing hand. "Nice," Flora said. "What can you do with it?"

"Everything I touch starts to burn. If I'm holding an open wound, I can cauterize it." Cinder looked to the ground and saw a ripped piece of cloth. Picking it up, she used her Semblance to create a small fire. "It's not much, but the smallest spark can start the biggest-"

"Put it out! Put it out now!"

Cinder quickly looked back to see the sisters far away from her, fear all over their faces. Surprised at the reaction, Cinder did as she was told by dropping the burning cloth and stepping on it. Once she did, she turned back to her team in order to apologize.

"Sorry," Merri said first. "We... don't like fire," she said as she rubbed the nervous sweat off her forehead.

"It's a personal thing," said Flora.

"More like an irrational fear," said Fauna. "But a fear regardless."

"I get it," said Cinder, who began to relax herself. "I should have given you a warning before doing anything."

"No, you had no idea," said Merri. "Sorry for yelling."

"It's fine." Cinder began to forget the ordeal as she asked another question. "What can your Semblances do?"

Flora and Fauna seemed to freeze at the question, stumbling over their words a little. But Merri was able to make them stop as she gave a proper explanation. "Our Semblances are hard to explain," she said. "They're not something you can see, but something we can do together."

"Oh, so it's hereditary?"

"Yeah, which is unique. Fauna uses it most of all, when she makes her dresses. We take snapshots of things in our minds, and can replicate them in exact detail."

Cinder turned to Fauna, who was making a small glance to her sister. "Like a photographic memory?" Cinder asked.

"It's actually called an 'eidetic memory,' but you're right," Fauna explained. "Merri's right too, I only need my reference once and I can make a perfect copy. Of course, making a dress takes a lot of time."

"Oh, okay." Cinder nodded in understanding. "You know, that might be good for combat. We could try it now if you want."

"Maybe not now," Flora said. "It works better with hand-to-hand, since our weapons don't match other students. And while we can make copies, it takes a little time for us to feel natural with it."

"Well..." Cinder put down her swords and got in a fighting position. "There's no time like the present to start."

The sisters decided to stop their sparring when Merri suggested that they go to dinner. Cinder decided to stay in the training room just a little longer, to test something with her bow. She had just started to fire two arrows at once instead of just one, so she decided to control her grip as well as her aim.

After about ten minutes of practice, Cinder began to make her way to the cafeteria. The Scroll she had in her skirt pocket made a soft noise, and the teenager saw that it was a text message from Fauna.

"Hey, Cinder. We're all here, you coming?"

Cinder answered while walking.

"Yep. I'm on my way to the cafeteria now."

"Wait, the cafeteria?"

"That's right."

"Oh, man! I'm so stupid! I forgot to tell you that we wanted to have dinner in our room."

Cinder stopped walking. She was just outside the cafeteria, but she didn't go inside.

"Oh. Did you get takeout or something like that?"

"Even better. Come and see."

Cinder turned around and made her way back to the dorms. While doing so, she quickly made a call to Djarin.

"So how did the rest of your first day go?" he asked on the other end.

"It was great," Cinder replied. "I'm finally able to do more than just listen in the classroom. And I got to help my favorite teacher prove a point."

Djarin and Cinder laughed on their ends. "I'm at the cafeteria right now, you feel like talking more about it?"

"I'd love to, but my teammates want me to eat with them in our room. They say they have something better than what I expected."

"Okay, then. I'll check in on you another time. In the meantime, don't forget to do your homework."

Cinder rolled her eyes as she smiled again. "Yes, Professor Djarin," she said sarcastically.

"I would tell you have fun, but I can see you're doing that already. See you tomorrow."

"Bye, Dad. Love you."

Cinder hung up and used her Scroll to unlock her door. Inside, she saw Merri and Fauna sitting on the floor with plates and silverware in front of them.

"Ah, there you are," said Merri. "Don't worry, we're almost ready to start."

"Start what?" Cinder asked.

The door opened behind her once more, revealing Flora holding a tray with a piece of warm meat on it. "Dinner is served," Flora said as she put the tray down in front of her sisters. The girls marveled at the sight and began to dig in.

Cinder took a closer look at the food with wide eyes. It appeared to look like roast beef, which was an extreme rarity in Beacon's cafeteria. "Is that... meat?" she asked in excitement.

"Nothing but," Flora replied with a smile. "When we learned Beacon doesn't really offer much of it, we got some of our own." Flora cut the slab and handed a piece of meat on a plate to Cinder. "Here. Try some."

Cinder slowly took the plate and sat down. Everyone looked at her with excitement. Cinder looked down and smelled it. "It's... cooked," she realized.

"There's a small kitchen at the end of the hall," said Fauna. "With an oven large enough to cook our food."

"Come on, you gotta try it!" Merri said with a smile. "Take the first bite!"

Cinder took a fork and knife and cut the piece of meat she was given. Raising the fork to her mouth, she placed the smaller piece in her mouth and began to chew.

"Oh, my-" she said as she stopped chewing. Taking another small piece and repeating the process, she embraced the unique flavor of the meat. "This is delicious!"

The sisters laughed as they began to eat their own food. They also savored each bite, with Merri eating rather quickly. Most of the juice from the meat fell onto her plate, but there was some on her face. Rather than using a napkin, she used her fingers and licked the juice clean.

"Anyone for seconds?" Flora asked.

"I'm eating this thing clean," Fauna promised.

"I'm gonna beat you to it," Merri challenged as she quickly took another piece. "Hurry up, Cinder. Next thing you know, it'll all be gone."

Cinder took another piece of meat and examined it. "I don't think I ever had beef like this," she said with a smile.

"Well, nobody's ever cooked like Flora," said Merri. "And she always knows where to find the best food."

"This is just a little something shipped from Mistral," Flora explained. "I just knew it would be perfect."

"Mistral?" Cinder asked. "Huh, it's funny." Cinder took her fork and examined the meat. "I've had dinner at Korkie's house before, and I don't think I've had beef like this."

"Like I said, nobody cooks like Flora. It's kind of her gift."

"Always has been."

"Interesting." Cinder put down her fork and knife. "So, what's with the occasion?"

Fauna swallowed her food and looked back at Cinder. "Well, we actually eat like this once a day," she explained. "But you're right, this is special. This is actually for you."

"For me?"

Merri also finished the food on her plate and looked back at Cinder. "Well, duh!" she said with a chuckle. "We wanted to thank you for joining our team at such a short notice!"

"We were this close to being asked to leave," said Flora, who held her thumb and index finger less than an inch apart. "And you saved us from missing yet another assignment while we were waiting for a fourth member."

"So, Lil' Miss Prodigy, we cooked our best food earlier than we planned just for you!" Flora said before she hugged Cinder. "Thanks again."

Cinder was immediately caught off guard by the hug, but she returned it once she heard the praise and gratitude. But she was the one who should have been thanking them. "I feel like I should be thanking you," she confessed. "I had no idea that all of this was ready for me. If you didn't take me in, I'd probably be listening to lectures for nothing."

"Well, we couldn't have that," said Merri. "Gods know we wouldn't wanna listen to Port ramble just for the hell of it." All the girls shared laughter once more before finishing their dinner.

The next morning, everyone was getting ready to go to class a half hour before it started. While the Blair sisters were busy fixing their hair and uniforms, Cinder was having a conversation on her Scroll with Winter.

"Yesterday, I was able to show off my knowledge of Grimm and combat," Cinder said through her Scroll. "How'd your first day go?"

"Not as intimidating as I initially expected," Winter answered through the other end. "The morning drills and the classes weren't hard to get a handle on. It seems the only challenge I expect to have is strengthening my Semblance."

"Hey, don't talk like that. I mean, who taught Weiss how to make her first Glyph?"

"I did."

"And how long did it take for her to start climbing on walls with them?"

"Less than a week. I see your point, I just wish the older students didn't expect me to be a prodigy."

"I don't care what they expect of you, Winter. And you shouldn't either. If they don't like you at your best-"

"Then they don't deserve my best."

Cinder smiled as she sat up. "Come on, say it like you mean it."

"They don't deserve my best."

Cinder couldn't tell, but she had a strange feeling that her best friend was smiling on the other end. She was smiling too, happy to hear the reassurance in Winter's voice.

"Make sure you remember the same thing," said Winter. "I'm sure most students were taken aback by your father."

"Oh, you have no idea," said Cinder. "I'm sure they're expecting me to walk in with armor one day."

"Let them see the real you first. Then, you can worry about armor."

"Yes, ma'am." Cinder laughed on her end as she looked at the clock. "Alright, I gotta go. Classes start soon."

"Yes, my morning drills are about to commence. I should be in Vale in a couple of weeks. Until then, take care of yourself."

"You too. Bye."

"Goodbye."

Cinder hung up her Scroll and looked at the sisters, who were just about ready to start the day.

"Aw, I just remembered," Flora said as she finished brushing her hair. "Everyone's done with their presentations in Grimm Studies."

Fauna stopped brushing some dust and lint off her uniform to look up at her sister. "But that means-"

"It'll be story-time in about thirty minutes," said Merri. She and her sisters groaned in exhaustion, catching Cinder's attention.

"It won't be too bad," she said, attempting to comfort her team. "He only shares one at the start of class, one at the end... sometimes in the middle..." Cinder looked down and rubbed her arm. "Actually, yeah, he shares a lot of stories."

Everyone else groaned once more.

"But there's still a lot for us to learn!" Cinder offered. "Professor Port's strategy for each Grimm is exciting to listen to."

"It would be," said Flora.

"If he remembered to focus on strategy rather than kiss his own butt," said Fauna.

"Come on, let's just get it out of the way," said Merri, who walked loser to the door. "And let's not forget what else is gonna happen today. Cinder gets to show us-"

*KNOCK*

*KNOCK*

*KNOCK*

Everyone turned to the door, unsure who would want to see them before classes started. Nevertheless, Merri moved to answer it. On the other side stood Ozpin, Glynda, and Djarin.

"Professor Ozpin," Merri said as she stood back with a gasp, catching the attention of everyone else in the room. "This is a surprise."

"Pardon the intrusion, Ms. Blair," Ozpin politely requested. "But we were hoping to speak with you before you head off to class."

Cinder looked past Ozpin to see Djarin. "Dad, what are you doing here?"

"Ozpin convinced me to come," he answered. "He told me this was something that I might want to see for myself."

Ozpin nodded and looked back to the eldest sister. "Ms. Blair, I was hoping to ask you about the matter of your team leader and name. Has that been resolved?"

"I think it has, sir," Merri replied.

"We actually took care of it the other day," said Cinder. "I guess it slipped my mind, though."

"Not to worry." Ozpin nodded to Glynda, who took out her Scroll. "Now, it's normally tradition for Glynda and I to see who the team leader is, and I do have one of you in mind. Perhaps you all thought the same?"

"We have," Cinder turned to Merri. "After getting to know everyone, Merri and I decided that-"

"Cinder would be our leader," Merri finished.

"Wonderful," Ozpin said as he nodded to Glynda. "Then you'll be working to together as-"

"Wait, wait, hold on!"

Everyone in the room turned to Cinder, who was looking at Merri. "I thought we agreed you would be leader," she said. "You know your sisters better than anyone."

"Oh, I can take care of them," Merri insisted. "It's not like I'm new to the concept or anything."

"Hey!" Flora and Fauna yelled.

The girl in blue ignored her sisters as she continued to make her point. "But look at you, Cinder."

"Me?" Cinder asked. "What did I do?"

The sisters shared a short laugh before Merri answered first. "Well, for starters, you saved us from being kicked out of Beacon."

Fauna walked next to Merri. "And you know Grimm better than any of us," she said. "We got our first 'A' when you came to help!"

Flora joined the group next. "And you saved me from a trip to the hospital in your dad's class!" she included. "If you hadn't told me what to do and when, I wouldn't have done as good as I did!"

Cinder was happy to receive the praise from her teammates, but she was still unsure of her ability to lead a team. "But, I-"

A hand on her shoulder made Cinder turn to see her father next to her. "Answering a call for help, helping your team in times of need, making a flawless strategy, and inspiring others," he said. "If these aren't the traits of a leader, I don't know what is, Cinder."

"..."

Cinder looked across the room once more, seeing nothing but silent nods and smiles, each one giving support. Her time at Beacon helped her see what burdens the team leaders carried, what responsibilities and ideas they upheld. To say that she was inspired by each team leader she met would be an understatement, and Cinder amused herself with the idea of being like them.

But now, that amusement was over. She had a chance to make the most out of her education at Beacon, and she was ready to take it.

"If you all feel that I can do this, I accept the title," Cinder said. "I'll make you all proud."

"I'm pleased to hear that, Cinder," said Ozpin. "From this day forward, you and the Blair sisters will work together as... Team CMFF."

"Thank you, sir."

With that, Cinder led her team out of their dorm and towards their first class. Which left Ozpin and his company to slowly follow once they were out of sight.

"You were right," said the Mandalorian. "I couldn't be more proud to see this for myself." He turned to the Headmaster. "Tell me... did you see what her team just described about Cinder? Before making her leader?"

"I've spent five years getting to know and see the Maiden Cinder has become today," said Ozpin. "Her heart is in the right place, and her passion burns as bright as the fire she can create."

"That doesn't answer my question."

Ozpin turned to Djarin this time. "Cinder has honed just about every skill I'm capable of teaching to the Maidens. Now is the time to teach her that with great power, there comes great responsibility."

"Being a team leader is a good start to manage the burden she carries with her gift," said Glynda.

"..."

The Headmaster and his protégé turned to Djarin, both of them understanding his silence. "You disagree?" Ozpin asked.

"No, it's just... I don't want her to become too burdened," Djarin explained. "Back when she started training, she carried the world's problems on her shoulders. It made her act out, even start to hate herself." Djarin slightly looked down. "I don't want her to be like that again."

"I don't blame you," said Ozpin, who offered a comforting hand to the Mandalorain's shoulder. "But look how much your daughter has grown. She's wise for her generation, she understands herself and her strengths. Now all she needs is an opportunity to show who she is."

"...Maybe," Djarin said as he looked back up. "But don't burden her with too much. Not yet, at least."

"Of course." Ozpin looked at the time on Glynda's Scroll, which she was still holding. "Perhaps you two should be on your way. You wouldn't want to miss your first classes."

Djarin nodded as he used his Semblance to disappear. Glynda, however, didn't make her way to her class with the Mandalorian.

"If I may, Professor, maybe Djarin is right," she said. "Of course, Cinder has a tremendous responsibility, and being team leader will help prepare her for that. But starting her education two years early? Don't you think we're pushing her a little too much?"

"The thought has crossed my mind, yes," said Ozpin. "But didn't you see how excited she was to be a Huntress-in-training? And did you see her humility when she accepted the badge and the burden of team leader?" Ozpin began to walk down the hall, Glynda following suit. "I truly believe this to be her calling, and she's beginning to see it for herself."

"Maybe so. But about the Blair sisters? Do you believe they have a calling as well?"

Ozpin looked back at Glynda with slightly raised eyebrows. "This isn't the first year one team member wasn't able to miss a year at Beacon," she explained. "But this is the first in which we, or rather you, have decided to extend the deadline for them to find a suitable replacement."

"True, but I don't see any reason to include them in our efforts," the Headmaster promised. "If you must know, I found their story to be... quite moving. And I can't explain it but... they remind me of some people I used to know."

Glynda cleared her throat. "Well, I can see you have your reasons. I just don't want to get carried away with Cinder."

"You may be right. But let's see where Cinder's path takes us."

Glynda nodded and made her way to her first class. Ozpin, however, walked back to his office. When he poured himself a hot drink, he reached into his coat pocket. Taking out his own Scroll, he looked at the various pictures he had on it. The oldest photograph, the one he was looking for, was one he found in a museum a long time ago. It was an incomplete portrait of four little girls dressed in blue, pink, orange, and green. The portrait was found in a museum in Mistral, the girls were from an age long forgotten.

But not to the old man.

If the portrait was recovered intact, the curators would have seen an older man with pale blonde hair and a dark complexion standing behind them. They would have found an incarnation of Ozpin himself, standing behind his four daughters.

He wasn't lying to Glynda when he said that the Blair sisters reminded him of people he used to know. Three of Ozpin's four daughters seemed to live on through the girls he met when they presented their problem to them. It was truly a pleasure to have met them, as well as guide them through their ordeal.

But their meeting also made Ozpin miss his daughters more than ever. And wish things had ended differently the night he lost them.

TheCourtofTalons · Oct 11, 2023

Chapter 33: The Mission

"Yes! Yes, prior to the Faunus Rights Revolution, more popularly known as the Faunus War, humankind was quite, quite adamant about centralizing Faunus population in Menagerie, formerly known as Mandalore!"

Bartholomew Oobleck quickly pointed to a specific island on the map behind him. The students in front of him were either watching him move quickly across the room or trying to take notes. But given the pace he was moving and talking, the task was easier said than done.

"Now! While this must feel like ancient history to many of you, it is imperative to remember that these are relatively recent events!" the excited teacher declared. "Why, the repercussions of the uprising can still be seen to this day!"

One student suddenly raised his hand and spoke. "Professor Oobleck-"

Oobleck flew across the room once more, specifically to his desk. "Doctor Oobleck," he reminded the student. "And no, I'm afraid I cannot slow down!" He reached for a thermos on his desk and began to drink the coffee inside.

"But Doctor..." the student continued. "We're out of time."

Oobleck spit his coffee in surprise before looking at the clock on the room's wall. "Indeed we are!" he said as he looked back to the students. "Very well! Pages fifty-one to ninety-one! I want an essay on my desk by next class! Now, run along."

The body of students began to pack their notebooks and pencils, preparing to leave. One student, however, moved towards Oobleck's desk.

"Excuse me, Doctor Oobleck?" she said as the teacher quickly turned around. "I have an excuse note from Viola. Something with her family, I think." She placed the note on the crowded desk, which was picked up by Oobleck.

"Hmmm..." the doctor mumbled as he read the note.

"Is... there a problem, sir?"

Oobleck quickly put the note in his pocket. "No!" he quickly said. "No problem at all! Thank you, Natasha! Run along."

The student silently obeyed and began to make her way to the exit. Oobleck didn't join her, as he took out two pieces of paper from his pockets. He was looking at two notes from two students from two different teams, both of them explaining an absence from class.

The length of time, however, seemed to be indefinite. And the notes seemed very similar in nature. And Oobleck's gut was telling him that something was wrong about this situation.

And it got even stranger when Oobleck received a message from Professor Ozpin, asking him to come to his office.

Oobleck was able to make the trip from his classroom to Ozpin's office in record time. When the elevator door opened, Oobleck moved as quick as ever into the office. "Professor Ozpin, I must speak with-!"

*BAM*

Ooobleck fell to the floor when he hit something made of metal. Quickly looking back up, he saw Din Djarin lowering a hand to him. "Mr. Djarin!" he quickly said as he took the hand and stood up. "My most sincere apologies! I wasn't aware you were here as well!"

"Ozpin called most of the staff," the Mandalorian explained. "He thinks you'd want to hear this." Turning around, Djarin was looking at Professors Goodwitch and Port, who were standing close to Ozpin's desk.

"Thank you all for coming," said the Headmaster. "Each of you came to me at certain times this week and brought the same problem. Of a sudden drop in attendance from our students."

"Yes, yes, I received this note from the leader of Team NAVY this morning!" Oobleck said as he reached for the note he kept in his pocket. "And just yesterday, I received a similar note from a member of Team BRGT!"

"I too received notice of an apparent excused absence," said Professor Port. "It was penned and signed by a team leader, who stated a family emergency needed his attention."

"I recall seeing your note, Peter," said Ozpin. "But I'm afraid that its contents were not true."

Port and Oobleck shared a quick eye glance at each other, wondering the same thing. "What do you mean, sir?"

"After Glynda brought my attention to this situation, I decided to check in on one of the students' families. I believe it was the earliest recorded absence, am I mistaken, Glynda?"

"No, sir," said Glynda. "Amelia was the first student."

"What did her family say?" asked Professor Port.

Ozpin took a sip from his mug before giving his answer. "When I explained the note Glynda received to her father, Mr. Browning told me his daughter isn't home. She hasn't been home ever since she left for Beacon."

Both professors had the same surprised look on their faces when Ozpin delivered the news. The idea of their students lying to them was a first, it was almost like children skipping school to do something they enjoyed. But this kind of attitude wasn't expected of Huntsmen or Huntresses; in fact, one could consider the idea quite disgraceful.

But Doctor Oobleck was able to find something else about the situation that troubled him.

"Forgive me for sounding bold, Glynda, but... you don't seem very surprised by this," said the eccentric professor. He then turned to the Mandalorian. "You're usually the first to ask the right questions, Mr. Djarin. Have you none now?"

"I did ask the right questions," the Mandalorian declared. "I was one of the first to learn about all this, and Ozpin let me investigate further."

"Did you find anything?"

"Something. It's hard to believe, but it's true."

Oobleck and Port shared another glance before they nodded. "Very well," said Oobleck. "Tell us what happened."

Yesterday

Djarin was sitting in an empty classroom. His only company was his daughter and a friend she recently made, Lilith Gelb. While Cinder was standing by Djarin's side, Lilith was sitting in front of the Mandalorian. The room's silence was broken when Djarin leaned forward and asked a question.

"Let me get this straight," he said. "The night before your teammate left, you were coming back from a meeting with your club."

"Yes, that's right," Lilith confirmed. "It was dark in the halls, so I used the light on my Scroll."

"And then you came to your door, and saw... something."

"That's right." Lilith moved forward. "It was dark, and it moved right underneath my door."

"It went... under your closed door."

"Right, right! It was in the hall for a second, and under the door the next moment."

"And when you opened the door, none of your teammates noticed it."

"Nobody saw anything! They were asleep, and Andrea left with a note for us the next morning!"

Djarin leaned back in his chair before asking one last question. "And... what exactly did you say... you saw?"

Lilith sighed as she ran a hand through her yellow hair. "Professor Djarin, I know this sounds crazy. I normally don't believe in this kind of stuff but I swear... I saw the Walrider."

"The what?"

Before Lilith could explain more, Cinder put her hand up. "I can explain from here, Lily," she said. "And trust me, I don't think you're crazy."

"Thanks. I should get going."

Lilith got up from her seat and began to walk over to the doorway. Once she realized she was alone, she turned back to Cinder, who nodded in an attempt to show that everything would be fine. Once her friend was gone, Cinder turned back to Djarin.

"She's not crazy, Dad," she said calmly. "And I think she's telling the truth. Do you?"

"Maybe I would," Djarin said. "If I knew what she was talking about."

Cinder pulled out her Scroll and showed Djarin an image of a black figure, faceless and apparently floating. "This is the Walrider. It's from a video game kids my age would play. I actually played it once, you're in an insane asylum full of-"

"Never mind that," the Mandalorian requested. "So you're telling me this thing is fake?"

"Well, yes and no." Cinder pressed a few buttons on her Scroll and continued to talk. "The Walrider's fake, but the inspiration is real. Because according to this website, it was inspired by The Grimm Child."

Djarin stood up but didn't break his gaze at Cinder. "Why does that sound familiar?" he asked.

"Because it was from my fairy tale book, the one I gave to the other Foundlings. It's a story about a Chill."

"You mean the rare Grimm?"

"Uh-huh."

"But... a Grimm in Beacon? That's close to impossible."

"That's what I thought too. So either Lily was having a bad dream, or she actually saw something. Now, I don't want to jump to conclusions-"

"But we can't rule anything out either." Djarin began moving towards the doorway. "Come on, let's go talk to Ozpin."

Cinder quickly obeyed and began to walk towards Beacon Tower. It was starting to get dark, but the clan of two wasn't in a hurry. So they casually walked to the tower and talked about Cinder's time as a student.

But Djarin stopped walking when he came into view of the faculty dorms.

"Dad, are you okay?" Cinder asked, following his gaze to the windows of the building.

"Take my hand," Djarin ordered. "We need to go to my room."

"Your room? What for?"

"When I left, I turned off my lights."

Djarin pointed to a window on the building, which showed light coming out of it. Looking back at Cinder, he saw her nod and take his hand. In an instant, they were in the hallway that led to his room. Cinder's eyes began to burn as Djarin took out his pistol. They began to slowly walk towards the door, where light could be seen on the bottom of the entrance.

And hints of something moving could be heard.

"Someone's inside," Cinder whispered as fire began to burn in her hand. "What are they doing?"

"I don't know," Djarin replied honestly. "Let's find out."

He slowly reached for the doorknob and began to turn it. Cinder formed a knife in her hand to prepare herself, but still planned to use her Maiden powers. But as soon as Djarin turned the knob halfway, the sounds disappeared. The lights suddenly went out, causing Djarin to slam his door open.

"Drop it!" Cinder yelled as she moved into the doorway, expecting to find someone with a weapon.

But they instead found a body on the floor, unarmed and unmoving.

Djarin quickly turned the lights back on and moved the body. He quickly moved his hand back and began to shake it. Cinder looked for any signs of another intruder or anything missing, but she didn't see anything. So she looked back to Djarin, who was staring at his hand.

"Did you burn yourself?" Cinder asked.

"No," Djarin replied slowly. "He's... cold." Djarin touched the body again, feeling the same coldness. But this time, he turned the body over to see its face. And he saw a boy's pale face with dark veins and dark eyeholes, which caught him off guard. Cinder gasped as she dropped her knife, disturbed by the body's appearance. Djarin placed two fingers on the teenager's neck before turning back to Cinder. "He's dead."

Before Cinder could ask what could have done this, she felt a growing cold spot on her heel. Looking down, she saw what looked like a black hand from under the bed reaching for her. Just before it could take hold, Cinder screamed and jumped away from the bed. Looking back, she saw the hand move out from under the bed, along with a black body. Djarin quickly moved in front of her and faced the black shape, which resembled a person and was floating in the air.

Djarin quickly fired his blaster at the approaching creature, but the red blasts only passed through the torso. It began to move closer to the Mandalorians, scaring both of them. Cinder saw her father's Amban rifle next to her, and desperately picked it up and fired it at the Grimm. But the blast missed its head and disintegrated a picture hanging over the bed.

Suddenly, the shape stopped moving and turned its head to see what had happened. After a few seconds, it quickly moved out the door and down the hallway. Djarin and Cinder quickly looked at each other in confusion. Suddenly, he had an idea.

"The rifle," he said. "Cinder, my rifle!"

Cinder quickly handed the gun to her father, who gave chase and followed the cold using the thermal vision in his helmet. But as soon as he reached the end of the hallway, he saw a cold, open window. The creature had escaped.

Cinder ran down the hallway and saw her father looking out the window. "Did you get it?" she asked.

"No," Djarin sadly replied. "It got away." He closed the window and turned back to Cinder. "Are you okay?"

"Uh-huh."

"Did it touch you?"

"No."

Djarin quickly pressed a button on his gauntlet to make a blue screen appear. After a few rings, Djarin spoke. "Ozpin, we have a situation."

Present-day

"By God," Port exclaimed. "Is Cinder-?"

"She's fine," the Mandalorian assured the shorter man. "She's still on edge, but not hurt."

"Dreadful," said Oobleck. "Simply dreadful."

"And quite serious," said Ozpin. "As far as we know, there is a live Grimm on the grounds, doing irreparable damage."

"The young man was one of our students," said Glynda. "His parents have been notified."

Oobleck turned back to Professor Port. "What do you make of this, Peter?"

"It would seem young Cinder was right," said the shorter man. "It seems we are indeed in the presence of a Chill. My best guess was that it was possessing the young man, waiting for the right time to strike against Djarin here."

"First students, and now teachers," said Djarin. "Any one of us could be next."

"And it doesn't seem to be in a rush to leave." Professor Port moved to the center of the room and all eyes landed on him. "If it's capable of taking the shape of a Human, causing that much damage to the boy's body, this is unlike any common Chill. It's been alive for a long time, it's evolved. It knows the perfect places to hide, the perfect times to strike or flee. It could be anywhere."

"Which means it's up to us to find it," said Glynda.

"But how?" Oobleck asked. "It could be anywhere, and we cannot conduct a proper search without alarming the students."

"Which is why I have arranged for the students to leave," said Professor Ozpin. "I will be making an announcement that the time for their first missions will be starting this week. They will be shadowing Huntsmen and Huntresses, who are more than capable of looking after them. In the meantime, all of us will search the grounds until this... thing is found."

"Then we should start our investigation while they leave," said Glynda. "That will be its last chance to either flee or attack another student."

"It may try to leave once everyone is gone," said Djarin. "What can we do if it comes back?"

"I will have our security systems upgraded," said Ozpin. "Perhaps you could be of assistance, Djarin. You said your thermal vision allowed you to follow it quickly. And prevent it from coming back."

"I can help. Did you inform the other Headmasters?"

"I did. Theodore and Obi-Wan have agreed to hold off the transportation of students attending the Vytal Festival, but James insisted he come early and help."

"Is that the right call? Ironwood might be bringing more fodder for the Chill."

"He agrees. And plans to send a new creation of his to assist us, one that a Chill cannot apprehend easily."

"In the meantime, we should start searching."

"And we will." Ozpin looked back at the other teachers. "We'll begin our search on the day our students leave. I'll be making the announcement tonight. In the meantime, stay vigilant and safe. If you see anything, proceed with maximum caution."

"Absolutely!" said Oobleck.

"Of course," said Port.

"I'll be examining our security," said Glynda. "Djarin, perhaps you should come."

"I will," said the Mandalorian. "But in a few minutes." He turned to Ozpin. "I want to talk to you first."

Ozpin nodded and waited for the other professors to leave. Once they were alone, Ozpin looked up at Djarin. "How may I be of assistance?" he asked.

"I think I know the perfect place to send Cinder."

Two days after Ozpin made his plan was the start of students choosing their missions and leaving. Each team was gathered near the docks, looking over large boards that had Huntsmen missions on them. Djarin, Glynda, and Ozpin were watching them leave while waiting for one team in particular. After a few minutes of waiting, Team CMFF walked into the large area, led by a black haired girl proudly wearing a suit of armor. Djarin was immediately drawn to a mixture of red, amber, and black that Cinder had painted her armor.

"Oh, hey," she said with a smile as she stood in front of her father. "I just put the finishing touches since you last saw it." She made a small turn so everyone could see the rest of her armor. "What do you think?"

All three teachers observed how the red paint covered most of her armor. Small pieces of amber and black were matched with the red in certain places, with amber on the arms and black at the legs. Ozpin and Glynda continued to look at the armor while Djarin looked Cinder in the eyes and chuckled. "I still can't get over the new colors," he said as he nodded. "They really suit you."

Cinder smiled and shrugged. "Gotta be me."

"Yes, you do," Djarin thought to himself. "Any ideas for a mission yet?"

"We were just about to look at the board," said Merri. Her sisters began to move to the closest board. "You coming, Cinder?"

"I'll be there in a minute," she said. When they were alone, Cinder looked back to the teachers. Glydna had excused herself to assist a team with selecting their mission, so it was just Ozpin and Djarin. "Dad filled me in yesterday. I still can't believe a Grimm came here of all places."

"We can worry about that later," said Ozpin. "Right now, we need to make sure it will be leaving shortly. And if you're willing, we found a mission that you may be interested in." Ozpin showed Cinder a mission on his Scroll.

"A Search and Destroy?" she asked. "I can handle that. But the rest of my team is still a little inexperienced. Are you sure it'll be fine?"

"Your father suggested the idea to me," said Ozpin. "He found the perfect place for your team."

"Mountain Glenn doesn't sound perfect."

Djarin put a hand on Cinder's shoulder. "It is," he insisted. "Do you remember the clan of Mandalorians I told you about? The ones who live in the ruins?"

Cinder suddenly began to understand what was going on. "You want me to meet Clan Tenau?" she assumed.

"Yes. You and your team will still work on your mission, but they can keep an eye on you when you meet them. You'll be safe there."

"What about you? That thing could have killed you."

"Don't worry. I'll have the rest of the staff to help me find the Chill."

"And I've asked a few others to come," said Ozpin. "People who we've worked with before."

"We'll be fine, Cinder," Djarin promised. "You should go tell your team the plan."

Cinder nodded and left the two adults. She came across her team at a mission board. "Oh, there you are!" Flora said as she smiled and waved. "Any ideas on what mission we should choose?"

"I was actually talking to Ozpin about it," said Cinder. "We agreed that we should take a Search and Destroy... here." She pointed to the mission located at Mountain Glenn. "I know this might be debatable, but-"

"Wait, that's where he wants us to go?" Merri asked.

"Yeah, that sounds kind of dangerous," Flora said. "I mean, all these missions are dangerous, but I think Mountain Glenn takes the cake?"

"How come?" Cinder asked. "You know what happened there?"

"Everyone does," said Fauna. "I memorized each detail. And unlike me, it's not pretty."

"Well, where do you think we should go?" Cinder asked, deciding to let the rest of her team voice their opinion.

Merri was the first to look back at the mission board. "How about this one?" she asked as she pointed to the mission right in front of her.

"A Perimeter Defense?" Cinder asked. "My dad took me on one of those before."

"So it's perfect, right? You'd know what to do?"

"Well, no. The Huntsmen on those job are... lazy, for lack of a better word."

Merri looked back to her sisters, who simply shrugged. "So?" Fauna asked.

Cinder looked back to Fauna. "Well, do you think that's the best place to learn about fighting Grimm?"

"Um..."

"I mean, the only Grimm you see are a Beowolf. Two or three tops." Cinder pointed back at the board. "Merri, when the Grimm took your home, there must have been a whole swarm of them. A Search and Destroy could help you fight off that many Grimm, maybe even twice as much."

"Well... yeah, of course," Merri said, unable to argue with Cinder's logic. "But don't you think it's kind of jumping the gun?"

"And at Mountain Glenn of all places?" Fauna asked.

"Maybe a little," Cinder agreed. "But do you really think the rest of these missions will help you fight off Grimm? I don't think so."

"..."

The sisters began to whisper to each other, quiet enough so Cinder couldn't hear them. Their leader was confused by the secrecy, but decided to wait for their decision. They turned around after a minute while Merri spoke. "Let's just be extra careful," she said.

Cinder smiled and looked back at Ozpin. After looking down at his Scroll, he pressed a few buttons and nodded back to Cinder. Once he saw Cinder accept the mission, he turned back to Djarin.

"Let me guess," he said. "Given that you're here instead of with Glynda like I suggested, and I saw your ship close to the landing pad, you wish to take Cinder and her team to Mountain Glenn."

Djarin was taken aback by Ozpin's intuition, but didn't bother denying the idea. "I just... feel I should see her off," he said.

"As well as make sure the Chill won't be going after her."

"...That too."

"Djarin, any other airship is capable of taking Cinder from place to place. There's no need to-"

"I insist." Djarin looked back at the girls. "I'll take them in the Crest, I should be back soon."

Ozpin sighed as he fixed his glasses. "This wouldn't be the first time you've insisted to take my place in matters involving Cinder."

"..."

Ozpin was telling the truth. If he had a piece of Lien for every time Djarin wanted to include himself or take over Ozpin's matters with Cinder, he would be a very rich man. He didn't blame the Mandalorian for worrying, but there was a fine line between worry and over-protection. And there were times when he saw over-protection lead to obsession, paranoia, and distrust. He didn't want Djarin to be like those people, so Ozpin decided to have a brief, but much needed, conversation.

"Do you trust me, Djarin?" he asked calmly.

"From what I can tell, yes," Djarin replied. "It's not that I don't trust you, it's just that I don't want her overwhelmed by all of this."

"I don't believe she is. There are times when I have seen her concerned about your safety rather than her own. She believes she knows how to look after herself. And I agree."

"..."

The Headmaster could tell that Djarin was still unsure about the idea. Fortunately, he foresaw something like this happening and decided to take another role in Cinder's safety beyond Beacon.

"It seems they're ready to leave," he said. "Let us wish her and Team CMFF good luck."

Ozpin and the Mandalorian began to follow Cinder and her team out to the landing pad, where students were meeting their assigned Huntsmen and Huntresses. And Team CMFF was walking to a person that Djarin seemed to recognize. When he got closer, he was beginning to see who would be looking after Cinder. She was a woman with a tan complexion, green eyes and black hair. She was wearing a green jacket over a black shirt, and she was currently smiling at the Mandalorian.

"Professor Djarin!" the woman said in surprise with an extended hand. "It's good to see you again!"

"Gretchen Rainart?" Djarin asked as he shook the young woman's hand. "You're helping with the missions?"

"I know, right?" Gretchen laughed as she lowered her hand. "I mean, I thought it would be crazy enough to be graduating from Beacon! I'm sure you remember I wasn't the fastest learner."

"But you still learned."

"Well, thanks to you." Gretchen pulled out her Scroll and showed Djarin her Huntress license. "The rest of the teachers, including you, helped me walk out of Beacon with this." Gretchen turned back to Cinder. "And I won't forget how you saved my life that day."

All eyes seemed to land on Cinder when Gretchen mentioned this. "Whoa, you did what?" Merri asked.

"I gotta hear this story," said Fauna.

Cinder began to explain everything while Ozpin was talking to Djarin. "I'm sure you remember Gretchen's path to graduation?" he asked.

"I also remember how hard it was to deal with her brother," said Djarin. "I think... I understand what you're saying. I shouldn't be like Hazel."

"Not entirely like Hazel. He cared about his sister, was willing to go to any lengths to keep her safe. But there were times when he went too far, where he wasn't able to see that our actions were helping people like Gretchen."

"You said something like that before. That we can expect evil to be easy to see..."

"And yet we are often the slowest to see the darkness within ourselves." Ozpin put a hand on Djarin's shoulder. "Your heart is in the right place, Djarin. Let's make sure it doesn't stray."

Djarin nodded. "I should say goodbye to Cinder." He began to walk back to Gretchen and Team CMFF, but turned around when he thought of something else. "Whatever happened to Hazel? I don't remember seeing him at Gretchen's graduation."

"Neither do I. Perhaps it's best not to talk about it while Gretchen is here."

Gretchen and Team CMFF were flying on board an airship from Beacon. The pilot promised to pick them up in two days or when he received word the mission was over. In the meantime, Gretchen was sharing stories of her time as a licensed Huntress.

"And after Nerissa used her Semblance to wash the Megalodon on the shore, the rest of us killed it before it could hurt anyone else." Gretchen wiped her brow and felt sweat on her palm. "Oh, boy. Now that was a close one."

"Wow," said Cinder, who was more into the story than the rest of her team. "How long did it take you to do all of that?"

"About an hour and a half."

"Damn," said Merri. "That was a crazy story."

"Crazy with a capital 'c,'" said Flora.

"You know, I never thought I'd be into Grimm stories after sitting through Port's crap," said Fauna. "But this was something else."

"Oh, yeah!" Gretchen yelled. "I feel you there. I'll always remember exactly how I prayed for death whenever he shared his stories. And then there was that one time he told the same story twice in one day."

All three sisters groaned, not looking forward to an experience like their Huntress described. Although she normally didn't mind the stories, Cinder knew the idea of the same story told twice would be boring. In fact, she was almost certain she heard all of his stories.

*CLINK*

A small sound of metal hitting metal caught Cinder's attention and made her look to the floor. Just next to Gretchen's foot was what appeared to be a silver locket, open and revealing two pictures. Cinder picked it up and saw Gretchen herself and a familiar young man. Her instincts kicked in as she tapped Gretchen's shoulder and held out her palm.

"I think you dropped this," she said calmly. "It didn't break or-"

Gretchen quickly grabbed the locket out of Cinder's hand without a word. Cinder's reflexes caused her hand to move away from the woman, who immediately looked at her with an apologetic look on her face. "Sorry," she said calmly. "I just... don't like to be without this." Gretchen looked into the locket, specifically the picture of the young man.

"Is that Hazel?" Cinder asked. "Your brother?"

Gretchen nodded. "You told me you met him before, right?"

"The day when Headmaster Kenobi and I took you to the hospital. He wasn't in a... good mood."

"Yeah, I remember. He came really close to making sure I didn't go back to Beacon."

"Really?" The sisters moved a little closer to Gretchen, almost allured by her sadness. "What happened?"

Gretchen sighed as she put her locket on her neck. "We... said some things to each other. Things I wish I didn't say." She began to dry her eyes. "After that day, he disappeared. I never saw him again."

"Disappeared?" Cinder asked in surprise. "That's... terrible. I'm really sorry."

"Thank you."

The airship slowly began to turn as the doors opened. Everyone stood up and prepared to jump out. All the students took out their weapons as they prepared to meet Grimm on the ground while Gretchen took out a bag full of Dust crystals. After they told the pilot to meet them in two days time, Gretchen and Team CMFF jumped out and landed on the ground.

"Alright, girls," Gretchen said as she turned back to the team. "Here's the deal; the southeast area has been marked as a recent hot spot for Grimm activity. We don't really know the reason, but one guess could be-"

"Grimm," Merri quickly spoke up.

Gretchen looked back at the young girl. "Um... I'm not sure if that's-"

"No, there's a Grimm behind you," Fauna spoke up as she pointed behind the Huntress. And sure enough, there was a lone Beowolf about one hundred yards from where they were. "Cinder, you got a shot?"

"Yep," Cinder said as she readied her bow. "But let's wait a second."

"She's right," Gretchen said as she looked back to the team. "We should see if it can lead us to the pack, see what's drawing the Grimm out here."

"How long should that take?" Flora asked.

"Hard to say. Lone Grimm can usually be seen without a pack for... Scratch that, there it is."

Everyone looked to see more Beowolves following the first one. Cinder was paying close attention to the features each Beowolf had, especially the one at the front. "None of these look like an Alpha," she said. "Maybe there's more of them."

Suddenly, one Beowolf snapped its head in the group's direction. The others followed suit and began to charge. Gretchen saw a chance for the students to show what they could do, and Team CMFF was ready to take that opportunity.

"Cinder, think we should let you handle this?" Merri asked.

"Let's make this a team effort," Cinder suggested, feeling eager to show off to a licensed Huntress. "Merri, Flora, Fauna. I'm gonna take out this lead one. Think you can use the Whirlwind of Destiny with the others?"

"Sounds like a plan," said Flora.

"Ready when you are," said Fauna.

Cinder aimed her bow at the the lead Beowolf and let an arrow fly. Just as she did, her teammates took off running with their sickles. The arrow struck the Grimm in the skull and caused another to trip on the dead body. Flora threw her first sickle at one Beowolf and watched it cut the beast in half. The sickle then moved like a boomerang towards another sickle, which Fauna had thrown. The two stuck together and were suddenly drawn to Merri's sickle, which was flying towards the last Grimm.

"Not bad," said Gretchen. "Though being without your weapons is risky."

"That's why I'm here," said Cinder, who lowered her bow. "When their sickles fly, I cover them all from here."

"A bow might be harder to load and fire than a gun. Just be careful not to bite off more than you can chew."

Cinder looked back at her bow, seeing the Huntress' point. "Looks like we'll have to work on that move." She then looked back to her team. "Alright, great work everyone. We still have a couple of hours before sundown, and a lotta ground to cover."

"Cinder's right," said Gretchen. "We're going to keep going north of here, it'll be a long trip. Keep your eyes open and kill everything that gets in the way."

The girls simply nodded and began to walk. Gretchen joined them, leaving Cinder alone to examine her immediate surroundings. After looking at each building, she pressed a button on her gauntlet to pull up a map of Mountain Glenn.

"I thought Dad said this was where we could find them," she thought to herself. Once she realized she was alone, Cinder turned off her map and joined her team.

The next two hours seemed to fly by for Team CMFF. Everywhere they went, they encountered Grimm. Whether it was on the streets or in the buildings, the Grimm were all around them. But they proved to be child's play to the Huntress and the students, who always made quick work of each Grimm. Despite the fact the Search and Destroy was going as Gretchen expected, she was disappointed not to find any kind of source for Grimm activity. And the fact that the Blair sisters were becoming restless didn't help either.

"This is getting pointless," said Flora, who was cleaning off her sickle.

"Wasn't that like the millionth Grimm we've killed today?" asked Fauna, having just killed one more Beowolf.

"Okay, I'm done," said Merri, who sat down. "I refuse to kill another beast until we get a breather."

Gretchen and Cinder were beginning to grow tired themselves, and saw the sun setting as a sign to call it a day. "Alright, girls," Gretchen said as she stood in front of an empty building. "Cinder and I are going to take one last look around the immediate area. You three can help set up camp in this building."

"Sure."

"Whatever."

"Fine."

All three sisters walked into the building while Gretchen walked with Cinder. "Finally, some peace and quiet," she said as she turned back to the young student. "Oh, no offense."

"None taken," said Cinder. "I kinda got used to the times when they'd be lazy, to be honest. Gives me more work to do."

"Doesn't that bother you? I mean, I wasn't the perfect student, but I never tried to be a burden on my team."

"Not really. Being a leader's hard work, yeah. But finally seeing everyone put in an effort makes me see I'm doing things right. That I'm leading them in the right direction."

"That's true. But why haven't you complained?"

Cinder stopped walking. "What do you mean?" she asked calmly.

Gretchen stopped walking and turned back to Cinder. "You've been awfully quiet today, save for directing your team in fighting Grimm," she said. "You've also been spending more time in each building than the rest of us, always checking your map on that... really impressive piece of work you're wearing." Gretchen looked at Cinder's armor from head to toe as she said this. "So cool."

Cinder blushed as she rolled her eyes. "Thanks."

Gretchen slightly shook her head as she got back to her point. "I think you're taking the mission more seriously than me. Or rather... you're focused on finding something else."

Cinder looked around her immediate surroundings as Gretchen said this. Once she realized they were alone, Cinder took off her helmet and looked at Gretchen. "The reason I took this mission was to find other Mandalorians," she confessed. "I thought they could help us, find out why the Grimm are here."

"They live here?" Gretchen observed the scraps of buildings around her. "Mountain Glenn doesn't give me a very 'home-y' vibe."

"No, but it gives a very 'secrecy' vibe. I never met them, but Dad's been here a few times. The Mandalorians here taught him about living among Grimm, being able to see when they sense negativity or when they're acting strangely."

"Huh." Gretchen put a hand on her cheek and gently rubbed it as she thought about the idea. "That's strange... and a little risky. But it's worked?"

"From what he told me, yeah. And he taught me a few things, mostly when they're waiting before they attack."

"Have you seen that today? With all the Grimm we fought?"

Cinder thought back on the Grimm she fought and killed throughout the day. The creatures weren't on the hunt or defending whatever place they called their home. They attacked, but Cinder knew this was out of their primal instinct. But the waiting, the gathering of numerous packs... it was all unordinary for Grimm. She didn't know everything about their habits, but she knew their was something different than what she usually saw.

"...Yeah," Cinder finally admitted. "I can't explain it, but... yeah."

Gretchen began to feel her palms become sweaty as Cinder said this. She thought this mission would be like any other, but now she was beginning to have a very bad feeling about being in Mountain Glenn. The fact that Grimm had an ulterior plan was something she never heard of, and it made her want to go back to camp. So she and Cinder made their way back to the building where the rest of Team CMFF was.

"We'll talk more in the morning okay?" Gretchen asked as they walked into the building. "Maybe you can show me what you know, see if we can see what else the Grimm are doing."

"Good idea," Cinder agreed. "It might be hard to understand for a first try, but I can-"

Gretchen stopped walking and quickly raised her right hand. "Wait." She looked up at the ceiling and then the hallway. Cinder quickly took out her swords and followed the Huntress' gaze. Before she could ask what was wrong, Gretchen asked a question. "Do you hear something?"

"..."

Cinder wasn't able to hear anything, but didn't want to rule out the possibility that something was with them. So she put on her helmet and used its audio enhancer to listen once more.

*BUZZ*

Cinder could hear a soft buzzing noise close to her. "Where's that coming from?" she asked, unsure what kind of insect was in a ruined building.

"I don't know," Gretchen said as she looked back to Cinder. "You can put those away. I just never really liked bugs."

"Guess we'll just have to avoid the room they're-"

*BUZZ*

*BUZZ*

Suddenly, the buzzing noise became louder, and it was coming closer. It was if either a very large bug or swarm of bugs were coming closer. While Cinder was able to remain calm at the change, Gretchen was starting to grow nervous. She clenched onto a bag of Dust she had on her belt as she examined the halls, trying to figure out where the bugs could be.

"Ow!" Gretchen yelled as she slapped her neck.

"What's wrong?" Cinder asked.

"Something bit me!" Gretchen moved her hand across her neck and used two fingers to pick at something. Once she had a grip, she moved her hand to look at a small black fly caught between her thumb and index finger. "What the heck? Do flies normally bite people like-Gah!" Gretchen was forced to let go of the fly as it bit her flesh again, leaving the Huntress to use a small portion of her Aura.

*BUZZ*

Cinder heard the buzzing again, and it was much louder. She looked past Gretchen to see a small swarm of black flies, just like the one that bit Gretchen. Confusion turned to fear as Cinder screamed one word and began to run.

"BOTFLIES!"

Gretchen joined Cinder as she ran to escape the swarm of flies. Once they were outside, Cinder stood in front of the Huntress and raised her arm towards the swarm. Fire escaped from her armor's flamethrower and began to burn some of the flies. The ones that didn't burn began to fly in various different directions, away from the two girls. The fire died when all the flies were gone, and Cinder looked back to Gretchen.

"Are you okay?" she asked calmly.

"Yeah..." Gretchen replied as she stood up and caught her breath. She looked at her hand and felt her neck, but couldn't find any painful spots. Her Aura had done its work and she didn't need it anymore. "Yeah, I'm okay." She looked back at the building entrance. "What were those?"

"Botflies," Cinder repeated herself. "The world's smallest Grimm, and just as dangerous. A whole swarm can apparently devour a person in minutes."

"I never heard of them."

"Neither did I, until a few months ago. Professor Port was the one who discovered them, but he has no idea where they came from."

"New Grimm?" Gretchen's uncertainty about Mountain Glenn increased at the mention of a new species of Grimm. "That does it. This isn't a mission for students, I'm calling Vale right now and getting you home."

"But our Scrolls don't work out here." Cinder spread her arms. "The CCT is miles from here, and all the towers to communicate with the city were destroyed."

Gretchen sighed as she realized what this meant. "Then we're on our own." She looked back to the building. "But first, we're going back inside. Get the rest of your team and find another place to lay low."

"Wait, there they are!" Cinder yelled as she pointed to the doors of the building. And sure enough, the Blair sisters were walking out of the deathtrap of a skyscraper, while Merri was being carried by Flora and Fauna.

"Oh, my Gods!" Gretchen cried as she ran towards the students. "What happened?!"

"We were making our camp like you told us to," Fauna explained. "But Merri took a bad step and fell down a hole!"

Cinder took a look at Merri, and saw that the only injury was on her arm. She had some bruising and cuts, but the real concern Cinder had were certain spots on her pale flesh. "Merri, these look like... you've been burned."

"I... I saw some of those... flies," Merri explained, referring to the botflies. "When I tried to run, I knocked over a box of Fire Dust."

Cinder looked back at the building. "The fire must have drawn them out," she figured. "But... why didn't we hear an explosion?"

"Don't worry about that right now," Fauna insisted. "Let's just find another place to hide out, for Merri to rest."

"That might be easier said than done," said Gretchen, who threw a bag of Fire Dust at a Beowolf and watched it burn. "I think we just drew more Grimm, and who knows if there are more of those things in each building?"

Cinder found herself unable to know what to do, and the sound of approaching Grimm began coming closer and closer. "They're coming!" she said as she stood up. Gretchen and Flora joined her while Fauna kneeled down and held onto Merri. Grimm began to approach from all directions, and the ground began to shake as they charged.

All of a sudden, the ground began to crack as well. Cinder looked down to see the stone beneath her break apart and form a large circle. Her eyes widened under her helmet as she began to have an idea. Quickly taking a bag of Dust off Gretchen's belt, Cinder raised it above her head and used her Semblance to heat up its contents.

"Brace yourselves!" she cried as she threw the bag down to the ground.

The explosion was strong enough for the rest of the fractured ground to break into pieces and create a large hole in the earth. Everyone fell down the hole and came into contact with dirt at the bottom. Cinder's awareness of her plan allowed her to move to catch Merri to prevent her teammate from hurting herself even more. Once she could see that everyone was alright, Cinder walked down a dirt path and looked down from where she was.

"Cinder, what was that?" Flora asked as she dusted herself off.

"Our ticket to safety," Cinder said as she took off her helmet. "We made it."

"What?" Fauna asked. "Made it where?"

Gretchen moved over to Cinder so she could see what the Mandalorian was looking at. And once her eyes fell upon more buildings below her, Gretchen smiled. "Did you know that we were right above it?" she asked calmly.

"I... hoped," Cinder confessed. "But that doesn't matter now. Let's find a place to lay low." Cinder picked Merri off the ground and began to walk.

"Wh... What is this?" Merri asked. "Where are we?"

"Close to Mountain Glenn's subway system," Cinder explained. "I must have heard Oobleck talk about it a thousand times. And here I thought I'd never have to use a history lesson to survive."

"Before the city fell, citizens evacuated to the subway and took shelter here," Gretchen explained. "They also made homes out of caves that were originally cleared out for the trains."

"So, an underground village?" Fauna assumed, looking at each building as they grew closer.

"Sort of," Gretchen answered. "Things worked out at first, but an explosion at another cave woke up subterranean Grimm, killing hundreds of people. After that, the Kingdom sealed off the tunnels."

Flora took out her sickle and looked around. "Are there any more of these Grimm now?" she asked.

"Maybe," Gretchen said as she opened a door to another building. "But right now, it's better than staying up top. Come on, we'll take five in here."

Cinder sighed as she looked back at the catacomb. "Well... here's to hoping Dad's doing a better job than me," she though to herself.

Djarin was walking through the faculty dorms, specifically where he saw the Chill flee and escape. Using the thermal vision in his helmet, he was looking at the last place he saw it. However, instead of cold spots like he saw the other day, the walls and windows had a normal temperature. In short, there wasn't really anything he could find that resembled a clue.

*TAP*

*TAP*

*TAP*

The sound of something tapping on the window behind him made Djarin reach for his pistol and quickly turn around, while preparing to teleport in case the Chill tried to take him. But instead, he saw a small black bird on the outside of the glass. So when he lowered the gun and put it away, the Mandalorian opened the window and let the bird fly inside, where it transformed into Qrow Branwen.

"I thought you learned not to try and surprise me," said Djarin, who closed the window.

"Can't blame me for wanting to take the faster way here," Qrow replied as he stretched his arm. After a few seconds, he lowered his arm and held out his hand to Djarin. "How are ya, Mando?"

"I'm fine, Qrow." Djarin shook the Huntsman's hand. "Yourself?"

"Eh... nothing changed but the weather, you know." Qrow let go of his hand and took his folded weapon off his back. "So Oz says this thing almost killed you?"

"It could have, but it didn't." Djarin led the way down the the other hall with his rifle in his hands. "Cinder scared it off using this."

Qrow nodded as he walked with Djarin. "Any idea where it went?" he asked.

"None. But there's no way it left the school grounds. It's feeding, and has the perfect chance with a bunch of people in one place. We made sure it didn't leave when the students left." The pair looked down one hall, seeing nothing but closed doors. So they began opening them one by one until they found something.

"Do you know how it got here?" Qrow asked.

"Our best guess is that Beacon's security wasn't prepared for this," the Mandalorian replied. "We'd expect to see Beowolves climbing the cliff or Nevermores flying above us. This Chill could have slipped in during the night, used the shadows to hide and strike when it could."

The idea made Qrow scared enough to turn on the lights in the room he was looking in and leave practically no shadows in the room. "Meaning it could be all around us," he noted. "And we can't see it."

"Unfortunately," Djarin said. "Which is why we can't leave any unturned stones. And why we need to keep tabs on everyone." Just as he said that, Djarin placed two fingers on the side of his helmet to turn on a radio. "Ozpin, I'm with Qrow. We're still searching the faculty dorms."

"Very good," said Ozpin, who was talking through his Scroll. "Thumbelina and I finished searching the tower, we will be going through the main building. Glynda and Ann should already be there."

"We are, Professor," said Glynda. "We haven't found anything just yet. Peter, did you and Harold find anything?"

"I'm afraid there's no sign of the Chill in the cafeteria," said Professor Port. "Barty just told me he's looking in the student dorms. But believe me, we should be the first to know where it is! Why, I believe I used a similar hunting method when I was young man, where I braved-"

Djarin quickly turned off his radio, not wanting to be distracted at the moment. He instead kept searching each and every room he walked by, unable to find anything. And Qrow wasn't having the best of luck himself.

"Maybe we should try to draw it out," Qrow suggested. "Something tells me playing hide-and-seek won't get anywhere."

"You're right," said Djarin. "I hate to do this, but I know one thing that can draw out even the smallest Grimm."

"Negativity." Qrow pulled out his flask and began to drink. "Way ahead of you there, pal."

"It sounds like you need to get something off your chest." Djarin continued to firmly hold his rifle while lending his ear to Qrow. "One way or another, I think it'll do some good. Have a level head while working."

Qrow sighed as he put down his flask. "Yeah. It's... a lotta things right now. Like I said; same crap, different day."

"Maybe. But suffering in silence isn't the best option."

Qrow sighed again. "Well, you already know about my sister, Summer, and... Did Oz tell ya? Why I was gone for a while?"

Djarin turned back to Qrow. "He did. He also said it wasn't your fault. And I agree."

"Yeah, well... what about you?"

"What about me?"

"Don't play dumb, Mando." Qrow took another drink. "Why'd you wanna work with me anyways? Haven't I taken away enough from you?"

"You haven't taken anything from me."

"If it could talk, I think your Aura would say otherwise."

"..."

Three months ago

Djarin was starting to open his eyes, seeing a white light and feeling a strange pain. If someone else was in his position, they would mistake the light and pain for them moving on to another plane of existence. But the Mandalorian knew something else was going on, given the fact that he could hear someone talking.

"Are you sure he's awake?" a male voice asked. "It's hard to tell with that helmet on him."

"Stephen, I saw him moving," a woman's voice answered. "You told me to come get you when something was happening."

"No, you did the right thing. I just don't know if he's-"

Djarin suddenly sat up, catching the man and woman off guard. "Where am I?" he quickly asked. He suddenly felt that something was missing, so he looked down to his chest and legs and saw that pieces of his armor were missing. Assuming that he was being robbed and seeing that he still had his gauntlets, Djarin raised his arm and prepared to fire whistling birds at the people in front of him.

"Wait, wait!" the man pleaded as he raised his hands. "We're not going to hurt you!"

Djarin didn't lower his arm, despite the pain he was feeling. He instead looked at the pile of metal towards the door to the brown room he was in. "My armor-"

"We had to remove it. To help you."

"...Help?"

Djarin looked down at his torso again, which was bandaged and glowing the same color as his Aura. His Aura was surrounding his entire body, but it felt different. He couldn't explain it, but the Mandalorian felt that his Aura wasn't working on just his torso and legs. It was almost as if it was doing something he couldn't see. Nevertheless, Djarin decided to get some answers.

"Where am I?" he asked.

"Shion," the man replied. "A village in Anima. I'm Doctor Lake. Stephen Lake." He gestures to the woman next to him. "This is my wife Tabitha."

Rather than say anything to their paranoid guest, Tabitha made her way to the door. "I'll let your friend know you're awake," she said as she left the room.

"My... friend?" Djarin asked, starting to calm down and lower his arm.

"That's right," said the doctor. "A Huntsmen brought you here. You were on death's doorstep, might I add. Tell me... what's the last thing you remember?"

Djarin held his head with both hands, trying his best to remember recent events. "I... I remember... orange. All around me. Just orange."

Stephen moved closer to the bed and looked over Djarin's body. "That would make sense, given what the Huntsman described," he said. "Do you remember another village like Shion? About Grimm being drawn to a mine?"

"...Yes. I remember. It was... a string of mines, actually. Professor Ozpin of Beacon Academy... asked for my help."

"Anything else?"

The Mandalorian tried to think of anything else, but all he could think of was the orange light that was all around him. "Just the light."

"Okay." The doctor moved back and began to explain himself. "From what I heard, a missed shot hit agitated Dust instead of a Centinel. There was a chain reaction, blowing you outside the mine."

"My armor... should have been able to protect me," Djarin insisted, not remembering him removing armor.

"Well, that's where it got serious," Stephen continued. "Your Aura was drained from the explosion and Grimm encounters from earlier. Pieces of shrapnel from mining equipment managed to strike exposed pieces of your body. Your chest plate was knocked off, leaving room for shrapnel to travel close to your heart."

"And... you helped me. You got rid of the shrapnel."

"After your friend carried you for over a day from the next village. You're very lucky to be alive, that I was able to remove all that shrapnel."

Djarin looked at his torso once more, seeing nothing but bandages over his chest and arms. He saw a lot of red on the white material, as well as the rags on the floor. It was clear that the Mandalorian had lost a lot of blood from the shrapnel. Stephen Lake was right; he was lucky to be alive.

But there was one thing he wasn't understanding.

"Is my Aura still... working on me?" Djarin asked calmly.

"Your Aura's healing you, don't get me wrong," the doctor said. "I'm sure you're feeling different because I had to... I had to change it."

"Change it?"

The doctor, while calm enough to have lowered his hands, had to clear his throat and wipe nervous sweat off his face, given that he wasn't sure how the Mandalorian would take the news. Nevertheless, he began to explain Djarin's situation as clear as he could.

"Your injuries on the outside were serious, but nothing I wasn't capable of treating. I later learned that you had multiple injuries on the inside."

"The inside?" Djarin asked as he put a hand to his chest. "Of what kind?"

"All I could figure out was that you were bleeding internally in various places, mainly your heart. My guess is that these injuries began to occur while your friend was carrying you, and when I had to remove the shrapnel."

"But I'm fine now. I'm not hurt?"

Stephen put a stethoscope on his ears and placed it on Djarin's heart. "Your heart is beating normally, thank goodness. Your Aura is doing exactly what I wanted to do."

Djarin's confusion came once more, given there was one fact about Aura that didn't make sense. "But... that's impossible," he declared. "Aura can only heal external wounds, not internal."

"Precisely." The doctor removed his stethoscope and looked back at Djarin. "When I went to medical school in Mistral, I learned the same thing. I always thought Aura could do more, in life or death situations. It's actually how I unlocked my own Semblance. I can... manipulate Aura to heal internal wounds as well as external wounds. Like a severed vein or artery, something I don't have the equipment for."

Djarin looked at his Aura again, beginning to understand his situation. "So, my Aura can work internally as well as externally?"

"Exactly. Since I didn't have the equipment to deal with such injuries, I had no choice but to operate on you with my Semblance. Do you understand?"

"I do." Djarin began to get off the bed, slowly and carefully as he could. His Aura suddenly broke, causing him to look at his body again. "I take it I've been using it for a while."

"Well, yes." Stephen stood in front of him and continued to speak. "However, there's something else you should know. This kind of manipulation is permanent, your Aura will continue to heal any external and internal wounds. But there is one side effect."

Djarin began to grow uneasy once again, unsure if he was ready to hear whatever it was the doctor was telling him. Nevertheless, he had to know what was wrong. "Which is?"

"Your Aura has been... affected," the doctor said as he straightened his collar. "Weakened, if you will. You see, healing both internal and external wounds is twice the work, and it will take less time and less external force for it to break. Your Semblance, whatever it is, will also play a factor in this."

Djarin looked over his body, beginning to understand what the news meant to him. "So my Aura will drain faster?"

"I'm afraid so."

"Does this mean... I can't fight?"

"Oh, you can still fight. Grimm or people, whatever the need may be. But you must be careful with your Aura. Use it only when you need to, and constantly check your Aura levels."

"..."

Stephen could tell that the news was hard to hear, so he had one other thing to say. "I know this is a setback for someone like you. But I want you to know that this was the only way your life could be saved. I'm... sorry."

Djarin thought about how this operation was indeed a setback for him. But he remembered that he was still alive and still able to fight. And if people like Clan Tenau could live and fight without using their Auras, Djarin could do so too.

"I understand," the Mandalorian said calmly. He walked over to the door and picked up the final pieces of his armor. They were cracked and dented, but they weren't broken beyond repair. So he slowly and carefully put the pieces back on and looked back to the doctor. "How much-?"

"Don't worry, your friend paid in advance," said Stephen. "You don't need to worry about that. I'd show you out myself, but I should get this room cleaned up. Oh, and come back anytime if you feel something's wrong."

"Thank you."

Djarin opened the door and walked down the hall towards the exit of the house. And as he expected, he found Qrow Branwen waiting on the front steps, drinking from his flask. When he heard the door behind him open, Qrow turned around.

"How ya holding up?" he asked after taking another drink.

"I'll live," said Djarin, who grabbed his side for a second. His body began to glow once more, showing that his Aura was working again. Qrow got up quickly, but Djarin raised his hand. "No, it's fine."

"So... did it work?"

"I think it did." Djarin let go of his torso and began to walk. "I... I can feel it working."

Qrow grimaced at the idea of feeling healing on the inside rather than out. "Aw, jeez. Well, how does it feel?"

"It's better." Djarin sat down and looked at Qrow. "They told me you said you carried me for a whole day, looking for help. Is that true?"

"Eh, doesn't make much of a difference." Qrow drank from his flask again. "Didn't really feel like a day to be honest."

Djarin looked at the map on his gauntlet and saw how far Shion was from the village they were originally at. And sure enough, it was a little over a day's travel. "You still carried me. All the way to Shion." Djarin held out his hand to his friend. "I can't thank-"

"Nope." Qrow quickly stood up and began to walk. "Not happening," he said as he continued to walk.

Djarin was having the feeling that Qrow was once again blaming himself for the mission going horribly wrong. Djarin could understand, there were times when small setbacks occurred on the missions they went on together. But this was different, and Qrow knew it all too well.

"Qrow, wait a minute," Djarin said as he began to walk over to him. "I wouldn't be here if you didn't do what you did. And for that, you have my thanks."

"You really wanna thank me?" Qrow asked. "Don't work with me again."

"..."

After the silence began to calm him down, Qrow spoke again. "Look, it's just for your own good. And if that's not enough, I'll find a way to make it up to you."

"Let's just get back to my ship," said Djarin. He put a hand on Qrow's shoulder and activated his Semblance. But instead of another village, Djarin and Qrow saw nothing but the woods around them. And Djarin's Aura had just run out. Seeing that he indeed had more limitations than before, Djarin could see that he would have to keep the range of his Semblance in mind.

"Looks like we gotta walk from here," Qrow said as he began to walk down the dirt path.

"..."

After an hour of walking, Djarin's Semblance was recharged and able to get them to the village, as well as his ship. After being in the air for twenty minutes, the Razor Crest landed on a mechanic's landing pad in Mistral, where it would take approximately two hours to fix. The waiting gave the Mandalorian time to think about the recent events that happened to him. Despite everything, Djarin was only worried about one thing; Cinder finding out how badly he was hurt.

So he turned to Qrow and tapped his shoulder.

"Huh?" the drunk Huntsman asked.

"If you still want to make it up to me... I have one request," Djarin said as he looked Qrow dead in the eye. "Please don't tell Cinder how close we came."

"Uh... yeah. Yeah, sure thing." Qrow raised his flask to his lips, but quickly realized the liquor inside had run dry. He stood up to get more, to drown the sorrow he was feeling of almost letting down yet another one of his friends.

But before he left, Qrow had one last thing to say.

"Your kid's as smart as a whip," he said. "What are you gonna say, when she sees you like this?"

"Don't worry," Djarin responded. "I'll think of something."

Present-day

"She still believes what I said," said Djarin. "I don't like keeping secrets from her, but I know Cinder wouldn't leave my side for a second if she knew what really happened to me and my Aura."

"I can imagine," said Qrow, who took another drink. "But still, you wouldn't have to do so if it weren't for me."

"It doesn't matter. What's done is done."

Qrow turned back to his friend. "All of it's happened before, Mando. It can happen again."

"We'll cross that bridge when we come to it."

"But we don't have to. I should be working alone, you don't need me as a reason to keep your guard up or whatever!"

"Maybe. But I still think it's beneficial to stick together."

"How?! Any minute, I could cause this Chill to come out and make you its puppet!"

"Its actually pretty simple; I believe in Cinder." Djarin turned back to Qrow. "Her time in Beacon didn't just make her stronger. She learned, and taught me, to see the good in everyone. Flaws and all. A professional Huntsman who's worked against Salem for years not being here because of his Semblance will throw that lesson out the window." Djarin continued to walk. "That's something I don't plan to do anytime soon."

"...Huh." Qrow lowered his flask and began to smile. "Guess that kid's doing more than growing on you."

"It was hard to accept, actually. The only people I cared about before meeting her were the ones in my clan. But because of the responsibility she has, Cinder's grown to value the lives of just about every person in every Kingdom. Something tells me that includes you."

"Maybe you're right. It would be good to see her again, once we take care of things here."

"Trust me, a talk with her will just prove my point."

After spending a minute thinking about this, as well as feeling better about himself, Qrow turned back to the Mandalorian. "Okay, guess it's your turn," he said calmly.

"My turn for what?" Djarin asked.

"To show your negativity. Mine clearly didn't work."

"Trust me, I'm already showing mine."

Qrow chuckled. "Let me guess, my sob story was boring you?"

"Not exactly." Djarin looked up at the sky. "Today's not the first day I've left Cinder to do things on her own. But I can't help but feel worried about her."

"Aw, I wouldn't be worried if I were you." Qrow took a drink from his flask. "I mean sure, Mountain Glenn's not the safest place in Vale. But there's nothing there she can't handle."

"Maybe you're right." Djarin looked back at Qrow. "I mean, she was still excited about her first mission."

A chuckle escaped from Qrow's throat. "Well, here's to hoping Cinder's not as unlucky as us."

"We. Are extremely. Unlucky."

Cinder sighed as she heard Flora make this claim. Even though they managed to find safety in the building they were in and treat Merri's arm, the situation Team CMFF found themselves in was far from good.

"No arguments here," said Gretchen, who kept watch at the window. "I should be apologizing to you all. I helped with students before in Vacuo, but this is different."

"No, it's not your fault," said Cinder, who stood up to look at her team. "You were all right. We shouldn't have come here in the first place."

"Next time, we're taking that Perimeter Defense," said Merri.

"Agreed," said Flora.

"Seconded," said Fauna. "I won't say 'We told you so,' but... Aw, screw it. We definitely told you so."

Cinder simply nodded and rubbed her arm, feeling ashamed that her choice led them to this point. Even though Merri seemed to be doing better, that didn't change the fact that they wouldn't have been here if it wasn't for her.

"Hey, Cinder."

The Mandalorian looked up to see Gretchen, gesturing for her to come over. Cinder obeyed and looked out the window.

"Don't beat yourself up," she said. "So maybe you're all not ready for a Search and Destroy. Just remember that and use your experience the next time you need to make a decision."

"I will," Cinder promised. "If I'm the one to make the decision."

"What do you mean?"

Cinder sighed as she looked back to the sisters. "I led them to disaster. I wouldn't do the same thing again, but there's a chance they may not wanna follow me."

"Hey, don't say that." Gretchen tapped Cinder's shoulder to make eye contact with the student. "Remember the day you saved my life? Nerissa, my team leader, was the one who chose that mission. When we all survived, she learned from the past and did better next time. We all make mistakes, Cinder. That's what happens when we're brave enough to make decisions."

"Well... I can't argue with that," Cinder said as she looked back out the window.

"You can make good decisions, Cinder. I've seen it with all the Grimm we killed, how you led your team in the right direction. So things went sideways, and morale is a little low. We just have to make sure we get back up and try again."

"..."

The Huntress couldn't see it, but Cinder was taking the advice to heart. She even remembered times when Djarin made mistakes while raising her, but he always stayed by her side and tried again. She saw that taking care of a child was similar to being team leader. And if Djarin could do it, so could she.

But there was just one problem.

"I still don't get it," Cinder said as she looked out the window. "Why didn't the Mandalorians that live here come help us?"

"Maybe they thought we were looking for them and didn't like that?" Gretchen asked.

"Maybe... but they should have seen us fighting all those Grimm. And me in my armor. They should have at least came to us and tell us we were intruding. But not hearing a peep? It doesn't make sense."

"I could see that happening. If they were still living here."

Cinder looked back to Gretchen, who continued to make her point. "Maybe they decided to leave, find a new home," she suggested.

"I don't see why they would leave a place like this," said Cinder, who walked out of the room. "In fact... my dad said he met their leader down here. It might have been in this building." She immediately moved out of the room and ran up the stairs.

Merri stood up and looked at Gretchen. "What's Cinder talking about?" she asked.

"It's why Cinder chose this mission," said the Huntress. "She thought a clan of Mandalorians who lived here could help us."

"Well... where are they now?"

"That's what we're trying to figure out." Gretchen moved back to the door. "But I think that-"

"AAAAAHHHH!"

All four girls looked in the direction of a loud scream, which came from upstairs. "Cinder!" Gretchen called out as she ran up the stairs. The sisters joined her and found Cinder on the floor, staring into a room. When they followed her gaze, everyone saw what scared her; the ground was covered in dead Mandalorians, all wearing golden armor.

"Dead..." Cinder whispered, but audible to everyone who was with her. "They're... all dead."

"By the Gods," Gretchen said as she helped Cinder stand. "What could have done this?"

"Isn't it obvious?" Merri asked as she turned to Gretchen. "Grimm!"

"We gotta get outta here!" Flora cried as she began to run. But something caught her arm and made her stop in her tracks. She looked back to see Cinder focused on the bodies in front of her.

"Flora... Grimm scratch, bite, and even eat any person who can't defend themselves," Cinder said as she walked closer. "They don't leave burn marks." She leaned closer to one body. "And they don't leave bodies in a pile like this."

Before anyone could ponder the idea of who could have killed these Mandalorians, Fauna looked out the room's doorway and listened. "Someone's coming!" she whispered, hearing footsteps come closer and closer.

Everyone looked towards the doorway and heard the same thing. Instinctively, they ran and hid in various places. Cinder's hiding place was closer to the room of corpses so she could see and hear what was going on.

"He still out of it?"

"See for yourself."

"Good. It's right up here."

"Why do we have to do it all the way out here? I thought this was something Saxon would want to see."

"He's dealing with a problem in the caves. He can't afford any distractions. We should be there helping him, so let's wrap this up."

"Yeah, yeah."

Two Mandalorians in white armor walked up the stairs and entered the room of corpses, followed by a younger man, one with pale skin who looked oddly familiar to Cinder. Using her helmet's visual enhancer, she was able to see what was going on in the room.

"Let's see," the first Mandalorian said as he kneeled down to the bodies. "Okay, this one looks good." He pulled one body off the pile and began to strip the Beskar armor. "Hang on, the helmet's stuck." After a few more seconds of pulling, the helmet came off and the Mandalorian tossed it to his partner. "You're up."

"Sure thing," said the second Mandalorian, who took his flamethrower and began to bring the helmet dangerously close to the fire. "Just keep your eye on the kid."

"Don't worry about him. He won't be a problem." The Mandalorian snapped his fingers in front of the teenager's face and waved his hand, but the young man gave no response. "See?"

"Jeez. Llanx really did a number on the Mind-Wipe, huh?"

"Not just that. I don't know about you, but I don't wanna meet the guy who's feels like a million bucks after meeting a Chill. Even if it was just for a few minutes like this guy."

Cinder gasped at the sound. Now she was starting to understand what was going on. And after getting a better look at the pale-skinned teenager, she was able to recognize him as a student from Beacon. And given the last time she saw what happened to someone who met a Chill, she could confidently say that the same thing happened to the student in the room.

"Yeah, you and me both," said the second Mandalorian, who was continuing to burn the helmet. "Speaking of which, did you hear that we'll need to change our way of recruitment?"

"Yep. It was inevitable, really. I mean, who's not gonna notice a bunch of students missing?"

"I just wish they didn't catch on. We could use more people."

"We have enough. Let's just do what we came here to do."

"Helmet's ready."

The first Mandalorian took the student's arm and guided him over to his partner. "My friend asked me why we bring new recruits all the way out here," he said. "We could bring you your new armor, you're right. But do you know why we're here?"

The student didn't speak, but he shook his head.

"It's so that nobody can hear you scream."

The Mandalorian stepped aside and let his partner walk over with the helmet, which was glowing from the heat the fire gave off. And right when he stuck the hot piece of metal on the student's head, he screamed out in agony. Nobody could see it, but the pieces of the young man's face were melting and in a way that one would think they had died and were burning in Hell.

One of the Mandalorians began to chuckle. "You were right," he said. "It is more enjoyable when you're the one watching."

"Told ya," said his partner. "Surprised he hasn't passed out yet."

"I was expecting him to piss him-"

*SWISH*

The Mandalorian stopped talking and began to choke on blood when a metal arrow pierced his neck. Desperately trying to breathe, the Mandalorian grabbed his throat and fell to the ground.

His partner saw this and quickly turned around with a pistol in his hand. "What the-?!"

*BOOM*

A bag of Electricity Dust hit the man in the face and exploded, sending jolts of electricity throughout his body and causing him to fall to the ground. Cinder and Gretchen quickly ran to the student and pulled off the helmet. When they did, pieces of flesh came off as well, leaving a burnt student on the ground. Gretchen quickly put two fingers on his throat.

"He's alive," she said. "Just unconscious."

"We need to clean these burns," said Cinder. "They might get infected."

"I got something right here." Gretchen took out a small medical kit from a pocket inside her jacket. As they began to clean the boy's burns, the Blair sisters came out of hiding.

"Cinder, I thought you said these people could help us!" Merri yelled when she saw the bodies. "Why did they just do that?!"

Cinder pointed to the bodies of gold Mandalorians. "They were the ones I expected to see," she explained. She then pointed to the white-armored Mandalorians. "I thought all of them were dead or in prison."

"If that's the case, who the heck are they?" Flora asked.

"They're called the Saxon Clan. I met them a long time ago, when they tried to kill another clan of Mandalorians."

"Looks like they're up to their old tricks, then," Fauna said as she pointed back at the bodies.

Cinder nodded and stood up. "And some new ones too. I have a bad feeling about this."

"Me too," said Gretchen. "I got a hunch that says the Grimm are drawn to negativity like this." She pointed to the unconscious student, the sound of him screaming burrowing its way into her mind.

"I think I heard something about other students too," said Merri. "Were we missing other students?"

"I guess so," said Fauna.

"I never noticed," said Flora. "But forget about that. What do we do now?"

Cinder was quick to make a decision. "If what Gretchen thinks is true, then we need to find out what's really going on," she said. "Merri, do you think you can make the walk?"

Merri rubbed her leg and sat down. "I'm kinda sore and I can only limp," she said. "I think I'll need another few minutes before I can walk fine. Or run, if I need to."

"Then stay here," Gretchen ordered. "Cinder and I will take a look around, meet you back here."

Cinder looked back to her other teammates. "Flora, Fauna. If we're not back in five minutes, hide again." She pointed to one of the Mandalorians. "And keep an eye on him."

"You got it," said Fauna. "Good luck."

The expedition Cinder and Gretchen took was shorter than they expected. The Saxon Mandalorians were all across the subway system, either on patrol or training. Cinder and Gretchen were hiding above the Mandalorians and watching closely. Cinder's helmet helped her see about three dozen of them.

"They're just patrolling and training," Cinder said as she continued to observe their actions. "Looks like they made some kind of base here."

"Do you see any more students?" Gretchen asked. "There's no way the one we saw was the only one here."

"Definitely not. But I can't tell, they all look the same in that armor."

Gretchen looked past the cluster of Mandalorians and pointed towards a large tunnel. "Over there. What are they doing?"

Cinder looked over to see a large train near a tunnel. More Mandalorians were coming in and out of each car, some of them pulling crates. "Looks like they're loading that train," she observed. "But why? Those tunnels should be sealed."

"Hang on, let me take a look." Gretchen moved over and took out her Scroll, taking pictures of the Mandalorians and the train. "Wait a minute. Cinder, I'm getting a signal down here."

"Wait, what?"

Cinder looked at Gretchen's Scroll, which had a very weak phone signal. Before she could ask how that was possible, Gretchen had an idea. "This tunnel should lead to the city of Vale. If I go in closer, I could get a stronger signal and call for help!"

Cinder looked back at the cave, as well as the numerous Mandalorians. "Do you think you can sneak past all of them?" she asked, unsure if it was worth the risk.

"I don't know. But I have to try. Or else we'll never get out of here."

Cinder knew that Gretchen was right, that calling in for help would provide both safety and an end to whatever the Saxon Clan was up to. And judging by her memories, Cinder knew these Mandalorians would stop at nothing and do whatever they deemed necessary to getting what they wanted. It would take a miracle to get out of the subway alive, and Gretchen's idea was their only hope.

"Okay," the young girl relented. "But I should head back to my team, let them know what we're-"

*RING*

*RING*

*RING*

A loud bell cut off Cinder and made Gretchen cover her ears in surprise. Cinder looked down from where she was to see the Mandalorians running around and grabbing any weapons they could find. Some even used their jetpacks to get off of the ground and fly around the large cavern.

"It's an alarm!" Gretchen realized in shock. "They know we're here!"

Cinder instinctively ran back to the building with Gretchen close behind her. Unfortunately, this left them to become clear targets for the Mandalorians.

Cinder was able to use her Hard-Light shield to block their blasts, but was having trouble outrunning them. Gretchen noticed this and was also having trouble outrunning them. However, she had a plan to slow them down, so Cinder could get back to her team. It was risky, and didn't have a lot of room for survival. But Gretchen knew it was part of her duty as a Huntress.

So Gretchen willingly stopped running and turned to face the Mandalorians. She could tell Cinder stopped running as well, so she simply turned around and told Cinder to keep going. Once her safety was assured, Gretchen reached into her belt and took out two large Dust crystals, both yellow. Bracing herself for a brief moment of pain, Gretchen plunged the crystals into her forearms and activated her Semblance, feeling strength and the power of lightning course through her body.

Gretchen discovered that she shared the same Semblance as her twin brother not long after her encounter with Darth Nihilus. Ever since then, Gretchen could block out any pain she received. At first, she was unwilling to use Hazel's idea of infusing Dust into one's own body, afraid that too much exposure to Dust would affect her health. But there were desperate times, like the one she found herself in at the present moment, when she knew the idea was necessary to both live and fight.

And if it meant the Mandalorians wouldn't get anywhere near Team CMFF, Gretchen Rainart happily took the risk.

Each punch she delivered sent a burst of near-lethal electricity. Whether her fists made impacts with Mandalorians or she sent them in the air, the electricity quickly travelled and sent a painful, destructive attack anywhere the burst made contact. Her Semblance also allowed for the blasts from each gun firing at her to feel like a simple itch of the flesh.

And to make matters better, the Flying Wing that belonged to the Blair sisters flew through the air and struck three Mandalorians before returning to its masters. Team CMFF had joined the fight, and were prepared to finally take this fight to the Saxon Clan.

"Attention! Attention! All Mandalorians are to clear the underground and proceed to the train! Repeat! All Mandalorians to the train!"

The message on a loudspeaker caused the Saxon Mandalorians to turn in the other direction and make their way towards the large train, leaving Gretchen and Team CMFF dazed and confused.

"I thought you said these tunnels were sealed," said Merri, who disassembled the Flying Wing and gave her sisters one sickle.

"They are," said Gretchen, who removed the two crystals from her arms. "I don't know why they'd be going there."

"Well, they're taking the train somewhere," said Cinder, who began to run towards the train. "Come on, let's go!"

Gretchen and her teammates followed closely behind her. When they managed to reach the train, they saw that it was indeed on the move. Fortunately, it's slow departure gave time for everyone to jump on. Only when it began to pick up speed did everyone grab something to hold onto.

"What's the plan, Cinder?!" Fauna yelled as she desperately held onto the metal exterior

"We need to make our way towards the front car!" Cinder declared as she opened a door on top of the train's caboose. "Everyone get in-Look out!"

As soon as Cinder opened the roof door, she saw a Mandalorian squatting and aiming his jetpack's rocket at the ceiling. Once he fired, the rocket made contact with the metal ceiling, causing the metal and earth to come crashing down.

Gretchen and Team CMFF ran faster than they ever had in their lives to evade the metal and earth. The caboose began to shake before it was disconnected from the rest of the train. Before they could mention the mere stupidity of the Mandalorian inside the caboose, the train car they were on suddenly detached itself. As soon as they jumped back to the main train, a rocket escaped from the roof and repeated the same action as the caboose.

"What's going on?!" Flora cried out, unable to understand why the cars were blowing themselves up.

Cinder quickly ran over and opened the next roof, seeing yet another Mandalorian about to detach the car from the train. She immediately jumped down and stabbed him with her sword. Her team and Gretchen quickly followed her inside.

"They want to detach each car from the train," Cinder realized. "They must have figured out we were on top, and tried to stop us by blowing up the cars."

"But that's suicide!" Merri declared, unable to see the logic behind the clan's actions.

"I don't think they care. They'll do whatever it takes to get what they want, and now that's us."

"Then we shouldn't waste any time. Let's get to the front before the whole train splits apart."

Cinder nodded and prepared to open the door to the next car. The sisters followed her lead, as did Gretchen. As they were leaving, the train car detached and a Mandalorian fired at them. Cinder's Beskar protected her and allowed her to stop the Mandalorian from firing a rocket. They immediately kept running to the next car, which was just an roofless, open space. Three Mandalorians began to shoot their rifles, barely missing the five girls.

When they hit the ground, one Mandalorian fired a missile from his jetpack. The projectile hit the train car, but it didn't detach like the others. This gave the Blair sisters a chance to run and attack the Mandalorians. The speed Merri and her sisters ran at allowed them to grab each Mandalorian and land a few punches before throwing them off the train. Cinder and Gretchen had just recovered from the explosion and caught up with them.

"Good work," said Cinder. "Glad to see you were paying attention in class."

*BOOM*

The girls turned around to see the ceiling explode once more, given that one of the Mandalorians who was thrown off the train used their rocket to blow it up. The others were flying back towards the train, only to be shot down by two of Cinder's arrows.

"Let's keep going," said Flora. "All this fire is making me worried."

"I think we have bigger problems than fire," said Gretchen, who was looking past the cars and the destroyed tunnels. "Look!"

Cinder lowered her helmet's range-finder to see something moving among the debris. The disappearing dust cloud revealed the objects to be Creatures of Grimm. Beowolves, Ursai, Taijitus, Creeps, and even Death Stalkers were all following the train from the holes created by the explosions.

"They're leading Grimm to the city!" Gretchen yelled to the shocked students. "When each train car explodes, they create an opening for the Grimm!"

"This wasn't some kind of base for the clan!" said Cinder, who looked up towards the front of the train. "It's an invasion!" She looked back to her team. "Merri, Flora, Fauna! Go below and see if you can stop any more cars from detaching! Gretchen and I will work our way to the front car!"

"We'll meet you there!" Merri said as she and her sisters jumped down.

Cinder looked back to the top of the car to see more Mandalorians coming out of the cars and onto the roofs. Cinder looked back at Gretchen, who was taking two more large crystals out of her belt. "Are you ready?" she asked calmly.

"As I'll ever be," the Huntress said as she plunged Fire Dust into her arms.

And with that, the two charged through each Mandalorian. Cinder's battles took longer than Gretchen's, given that she couldn't use Dust like the Huntress. But when she saw the distance between them was considerable, Cinder took a chance and used part of her Maiden powers to take care of her opponents. Fire and wind both contributed to the fall of the Saxon Mandalorians, leaving her with a chance to rejoin Gretchen.

"You okay?" Gretchen asked when Cinder caught up with her.

"Never better," said Cinder. "How about you?"

"I'm not feeling pain, but I think I'll be feeling some in the morning."

Cinder looked over Gretchen's torso, which showed numerous cuts and bruises the Mandalorians inflicted on her. "Yeah, no arguments there. How much further to the front car?"

Gretchen looked towards the end of the tunnel. "Should be a few more cars. Come on!" The girls quickly ran across the train cars, getting closer and closer to the front car.

Suddenly, the metal underneath them began to disappear, leaving nothing for Cinder and Gretchen to stand on. They fell into the car behind the front locomotive, and at the mercy of a red and white Mandalorian.

The Mandalorian shot a round of Electricity Dust into Gretchen's chest. She had removed her crystals and stopped using her Semblance, which left her helpless against the blast of Dust. He then sent a kick to Cinder's head, causing her helmet to fall off.

"You again?!" the Mandalorian shouted as he raised his blaster to Cinder's head. But the Maiden was quick to not only dodge the shot, but also kick the Mandalorian's weapon from his grasp. And after a few seconds, Cinder began to understand what he meant.

"You!" she screamed when she stood up. "You're the one who worked with Gideon! You helped him kidnap me!"

"Looks like we're on the same page, then."

It may have been five years since the two first met, but Gar Saxon remembered everybody who almost eliminated his clan. And Cinder remembered every detail about one of the worst days of her life, especially the people who tried to convince her that her father was dead.

Each combatant held a deep animosity for the other, and were prepared to display that animosity through their actions. Saxon was first when he sent a blast of lightning through his hand, which Cinder dodged. The bolt hit the metal door behind them, disintegrating it completely.

Cinder was surprised at the feat, remembering that Gar Saxon's Semblance could only disintegrate Beskar. She simply assumed that his Semblance evolved and remembered that she would have to be careful with her Beskar. So she sent a wave of fire towards him.

Suddenly, Cinder noticed that not only Gretchen was laying on the ground, but the rest of her team as well. They too must have met Gar Saxon and he must have removed them from the equation. This distraction allowed for Saxon to tackle Cinder to the ground and begin to choke her by pressing his rifle against her throat. He then took his hand and began to use his Semblance once more, preparing to disintegrate her armor.

"I have to admit, you put a lot of work into this suit," he said as he began to feel victory was in his grasp. "But do you really think this makes you like me, brat?"

Cinder kept a firm grasp on the gun and began to use her Semblance, feeling the metal begin to break into pieces. "I'm... not... like you," she choked out before the gun broke in her hands. She then punched Saxon in the throat, causing him to fall back. "I'm better."

Saxon recovered from the attack and got into a fighting stance. "Let's put that to a test."

Cinder thought back to her father's training and got into her own fighting stance. "Gladly."

The Mandalorians rushed at each other, sending fists and kicks toward each other. One strike knocked Cinder away from Saxon, but she was able to wrap a wire around his wrist and pull. Saxon resisted the force Cinder was displaying and tried to pull away. Cinder took this chance to stop pulling and let her fly towards Saxon, sending another punch to his throat.

Saxon was using his Aura to block the attack, but stumbled back to the wall of the train. Cinder launched a ball of fire at Saxon, destroying part of the wall. But Saxon was still standing and sent his own fire towards the Maiden.

Cinder used her flamethrower to block Saxon's flame, not noticing him send a kick to her gut. This time, it was Cinder who crashed into the wall and left herself open to attack. Saxon delivered heavy punches to her face, causing her Aura to flicker. So she ducked just in time, making Saxon's fist crash into the metal. She then punched his stomach, which was unprotected.

The wind was knocked out of Saxon's lungs, disorienting him long enough for Cinder to pick him up and body slam to the ground. Saxon's Aura flickered, but he continued to fight by swiping his feet and knocking Cinder to the floor.

Before anyone could attack again, part of the floor gave way. Both Mandalorians looked back to see an Ursa Major had gotten close to the train and was breaking it with its bare hands. Seeing an opportunity in front of her, Cinder used her Maiden powers to blast away from the Grimm and Saxon. Quickly forming a fist and turning it counter-clockwise, metal discs shot from her gauntlet. The sharp spikes stabbed into Saxon's hand as well as the metal floor, making escape unfeasible.

And once the Ursa took out another part of the floor, Gar Saxon finally fell out of the train and joined his clan.

Content with her work and finally able to rest, Cinder took heavy breaths and kneeled on the ground. After resting for a minute, she looked back to Gretchen and her team. Seeing that they were starting to regain consciousness, she helped them stand and looked them over for any wounds.

"Are you alright?" Cinder asked as she helped Merri stand.

"I'm good," she said. "Just a killer headache."

"I think... there was another Mando here," Fauna said as she held her head. "Saying something... something about the brake."

"I remember," said Flora. "He said..." Fear began to show itself on Flora's face. "He said the brake had been cut. No way to fix it."

Gretchen ran inside the locomotive and looked at the controls. And given the fact the lever for the brake was on the ground, she knew the Mandalorian wasn't lying. She also knew they were all in trouble.

Cinder took another look back at her team and Gretchen while making a plan. She knew that she was the only one who could kill the horde of Grimm behind her, but she also knew she would be exposing herself to her present company. So taking care of them was her first step in securing everyone's safety.

"Gretchen, do you have any more Ice Dust?!" she asked frantically.

"What?!" Gretchen asked. "Yeah, of course! I have plenty!"

"Do you think you can make a shell thick enough to block out the crash?!"

"I think so!"

Cinder pointed to the train's control room. "Take everyone else and make one! I have to get this door closed!"

Gretchen did as she was told and went inside the control room. Taking out two large Dust crystals, she prepared to infuse herself with them. But before she did, the Huntress looked back to see Cinder looking back at the Grimm. "Cinder, get in-!"

*SLAM*

Cinder closed the door and closed her eyes. Once they opened and fire burned, she pressed her palm on the door. Fire began to burn in her palm and the metal began to melt. Working fast, Cinder moved her hand down to make the metal of the door and the wall fuse together, welding the two together. She could hear Gretchen pounding on the door and her name being called over and over again. But Cinder turned away and looked back at the Grimm.

Cinder was unable to make out the exact number of the forces before her, but she knew there was enough to launch a full-scale invasion against Vale. Its people would be powerless against them, with or without the help of the Huntsmen and Huntresses of Vale. But against the power of a Maiden, at least a vast majority would be out of the picture.

To say that Cinder learned a lot from Professor Ozpin would be an understatement. She knew all of her training, all of her time learning about the power of the Maidens had led up to this very moment. And in the end, she would be putting the power to its original purpose; protecting the people of Remnant. So when she closed her eyes once more, Cinder concentrated on the elements around her. Not just the fire that she was creating, but also the earth and air of the tunnel.

It was a feat she tried before, to connect with the world around her. Her father described it when he encountered the previous Fall Maiden, when she was able to move stone with her powers. With Ozpin's instructions, Cinder was able to perform feats similar to her predecessor, but it came at the cost of physical exhaustion. Cinder knew that she couldn't let that stop her now, so she concentrated on her connection to the earth, hoping her plan would work.

Suddenly, the walls around the train began to crumble. The earth and stone behind the metal began to form cracks before they all came tumbling down in front of the Grimm. Some were crushed, but the majority of the monsters climbed the stone and began to charge once more. But Cinder was far from done with her work. She concentrated even harder than before, tuning out the pounding of the door behind her and the constant cries of the Grimm. Her concentration allowed for her powers to connect with the elements around her, and walls closer to the train began to crumble like before.

Cinder's hands and legs felt like they were carrying the weight of the world as she continued to use her powers in a way uncommon for Maidens her age. Her nose began to bleed and stress was building up throughout her body, but Cinder did nothing but ignore the pain and focus on her connection. Once the roof of earth began to crumble and fall down towards her, Cinder finally opened her eyes and pushed her hands forward. Once she did, a gust of wind from her left hand knocked the rubble towards the Grimm and a wave of fire from her right hand came into direct contact with the rocks.

The mantle rocks that collided with the fire didn't burn, but they instead began to melt. Other rocks and metal that came into contact with the fire also began to melt, as Cinder controlled the fire perfectly enough to prevent simple burning. The melted rock began to transform into a molten substance, one that expand across the ground and melt the earth on the ground. And when the Grimm were unfortunate to step on it, they howled in pain as they burned. While Beowolves and Ursai tried and failed to turn back due to their limbs burning, Taijitus felt their underbellies melt and turn into nothing. Alpha Grimm were smart enough to climb the walls instead, but they collapsed and joined the magma Cinder created.

The Fall Maiden observed her work and felt a sense of satisfaction as her plan came to fruition. But she also felt overwhelmed as the pain of her body spread like the magma on the ground. With extreme reluctance, Cinder dropped to the floor of the train.

And everything went black when the train crashed at the end of the track.

TheCourtofTalons · Oct 17, 2023

Chapter 34: The Debate

Sunlight found its way to Cinder's eyes like it always did when she woke up. The neutral dark plane disappeared when the light caused two amber eyes to slowly open and observe their surroundings. But all Cinder could see was white.

At first, the teenager had no idea what the white was. She instinctively moved her head, which was laying on something soft. When she was able to get a better look at her surroundings, Cinder saw that she was in her old room at Beacon Academy. Din Djarin was sleeping at the table, but his chair was closer to Cinder's bed than usual. And to her right was a vase of flowers with a note.

"That's twice I owe you. Feel better soon."

Cinder looked at the flowers and smiled. She began to move off the bed even more, which caused her to feel sore throughout most of her body. She couldn't help but let out a pained groan that immediately woke Djarin up.

"Cinder!" the Mandalorian cried as he rushed over to the bed. "You're awake!"

"Dad..." Cinder said with a smile, happy to see see her father after what felt like an eternity. But she still felt tired and incredibly weak. "What... happened? How... How did I get here?"

"Gretchen Rainart. She dug you out of the tunnel and brought you here."

"Tunnel? You know about-?"

"She told us everything when she found herself in Vale. That train you were on brought you right under the city."

"Wait, under the city?!" Cinder moved off her bed more, only to be stopped by Djarin's hands. "But there were Grimm following us! They were right behind us!"

"You're right about 'were.' We found some stragglers, but Gretchen told me you took out the majority."

Cinder felt a wave of relief pour over her, seeing that nobody got hurt from the invasion attempt. And she was even more glad to see that her father was alive and well from having to deal with the Grimm. But there was one thing eating at her.

"Does she know?" Cinder asked. "Does she know what I did?"

"Gretchen knows you did something," Djarin explained. "But she doesn't know about your powers. Neither does your team."

"Okay." Cinder gently moved back to the bed. "Are they safe? Are they alright?"

"Everyone's safe. Even the students we found." The Mandalorian could tell that Cinder was surprised to hear about students of all things, so he explained further. "Gretchen told us about the Mandalorians, how they kidnapped students to build their numbers."

"It was the Saxon Clan. They're back." Cinder was never afraid of the clan, but she knew nothing good could ever come from them. She was more afraid of the kind of damage they could inflict on the world if they had the chance.

"I remember them. General Ironwood and I couldn't find their leader, we only found some of the students and survivors of the Tenau Clan. He's doing everything he can to help them, to see what kind of damage the Chill did."

"General Ironwood is here?"

Djarin slightly nodded. "He insisted on helping us with the Chill. Brought a new kind of droid to hunt it down."

"Did it work?"

"We haven't found a trace. But the droids were able to help with the excavation of Mountain Glenn."

"Is he still here?"

"With Ozpin."

The Maiden began to move off the bed once more. "I want to talk to him. And Ozpin."

Djarin stopped Cinder once more. "You will. After you get more rest. I'm not taking 'No' for an answer."

Cinder nodded and moved further back than before. The soft mattress made her sore feeling disappear. Seeing that some solitude would make her rest easier, Djarin stood up and moved to the door. Before he opened it, the Mandalorian had one more thing to say.

"I'm proud of you, Cinder. You should be proud of yourself, too."

Djarin's Semblance was strong enough to help him travel from Beacon Academy to the outskirts of the Forever Fall. He travelled through the red trees until he came across the remains of a fortress. All around the fortress were Mandalorians of two different clans.

When he heard about the events of Mountain Glenn, Djarin remembered how Clan Tenau and Clan Vizsla were close allies. He traveled to the Forever Fall to inform Clan Vizsla of what happened, but he was surprised to see that survivors of the massacre had already escaped to the forest.

Mi Tenau had foreseen the attack by the Saxon Clan and knew survival was questionable. Despite their superiority in numbers, each Semblance of the Saxons made them a force to be reckoned with. Mi and several members of Clan Tenau evacuated the broken city, but others stayed behind to give them enough time to escape. Djarin promised to return their Beskar to them, which was why he was back in the Forever Fall.

"I brought everything I could find," Djarin said as he handed over two large sacks to the leader of Clan Tenau. "I was even able to claim the armor of dead Saxon members."

Mi Tenau looked through the bags for a brief moment. "This is more than enough," she said as two other Mandalorians took the bags. "You have my thanks."

Djarin nodded and looked over to the leader of Clan Vizsla. "Will you watch over them?"

"With your help," Pax Vizsla promised. "Mi told me what she saw with you, all those years ago. Even though what she speaks is true, we could still use your help."

Djarin nodded once more, wishing to make up for what happened. Even though he was not the true Mand'alor, his claim of the Darksaber carried a heavy responsibility. A responsibility that Djarin failed to uphold.

He knew that he should have kept in contact with Clan Tenau, as well as any other clan. If he did so, Clan Saxon's attack could have been prevented or more of Clan Tenau could have survived. He knew that he would now have to do whatever he could to watch over all Mandalorians. And now he would help with Clan Tenau as he helped Clan Vizsla.

"Do not condemn yourself," said Mi, who had picked up on Djarin's mixed emotions. "Now is the time to save yourself."

The Mandalorian looked back to Mi in surprise, not expecting to hear the last part of that sentence. "Protect myself?"

"This attack was only the beginning. There is grave danger in Vale, one that my people and I have foreseen."

"From the Grimm?" Pax asked, remembering how Clan Tenau learned to observe the dark creatures and predict their next move without flaw.

"As well as the Saxon Clan. I cannot be certain as to where and when they will strike, but danger still lurks in the Kingdom. It will reveal itself soon, regardless of whatever protection other Kingdoms wish to provide."

"Then I have to stay," Djarin declared. "There are people in Vale who are counting on my help."

"This time, do not fight alone. Call upon Clan Tenau."

Pax moved closer to Mi so he could be in Djarin's view. "And Clan Vizsla."

"They were here... Ozpin, they were here!"

"We're very much aware of that! Thank you, James."

"Fantastic! You're aware! Now are we going to do something about it or should we just stay the course and continue to ignore what's right in front of us?!"

Professor Ozpin simply sat in silence as he listened to General Ironwood and Professor Goodwitch yell at each other. This wasn't the first time his friends and closest allies had argued about deciding the best course of action, which made the professor feel relaxed and calm. He had enough experiences with arguments to wait them out until an opening arrived.

*BEEP*

And from the sound of the electric bell, Professor Ozpin had found his opening. "Come in," he said calmly. The doors opened to reveal Din Djarin and Cinder, who slowly walked in.

"Sorry we're late," Cinder said. "I wanted to check in with my team after getting enough rest."

Ozpin nodded and stood up. "Thank you for coming, Cinder. How are you feeling?"

"Okay, I guess. My powers took a lot out of me, so I'm a little sore."

Everyone in the room understood how that was most likely, given the fact Cinder stopped more Grimm than anyone could count. The one person who felt these feelings tenfold was General Ironwood, who walked over to Cinder and put a hand on her shoulder.

"Cinder, I feel it's appropriate to let you know that I think what you did last night is exactly what being a Maiden is all about," he said. "You recognized a threat. You took action. And you did more than could be expected."

"Thank you. Speaking of action, is that why those new robots are here? Dad said they could help with the Chill."

Ironwood backed away and took out his Scroll. "Yes, actually." After placing the Scroll on Ozpin's desk, a hologram of a robot appeared in the air. "This is the Atlesian Knight-200. Smarter; sleeker; and, admittedly, a little less scary."

"Agreed," said Djarin. "But I have to admit, the design and requirements look... advanced. Even for you, General."

"Well, that's because I had the right help. I trust you remember Arthur Watts?" Djarin looked back to Ironwood when he heard the name of one of Salem's allies. "In exchange for better conditions in prison, he agreed to give me the plans for a 'Dark Trooper' he built to kill me. After the right modifications, we created the AK-200 years before someone would even have the idea."

"That's impressive, General," Cinder admitted. "But Dad said it couldn't find the Chill. So... what do we do about that?"

"We searched every place it could be hiding in," said Glynda. "Of course, we will continue to remain vigilant. But based on Ms. Rainart's report, it seems it had a part to play with the Saxon Clan."

"I remember." Cinder moved closer. "They said they were using a Chill to possess students, long enough for them to leave the campus with them. And they were... wiping their minds, or something. Making loyal soldiers out of them."

"And here I thought Mandalorians couldn't get any more despicable," Glynda said with crossed arms. She suddenly remembered the company she was in, so she looked back to Djarin and Cinder. "Oh, no offense."

"Unfortunately, there are still some Mandalorians who wish to fight any Kingdom they lay their eyes on," said Djarin. "But Clans Vizsla and Tenau have no intention of fighting against us."

"How we can be sure of that?" Ironwood asked.

"You have my word. And that of their leaders."

"I don't think-"

Ozpin suddenly spoke up. "Thank you, Djarin." Unlike Ironwood, he had a feeling these clans could be trusted, given their status as allies and the situation Clan Tenau was in. "Did they say anything else? After you helped them escape the tunnels?"

"Their leader is expecting another attack. Not just on them, but the entire Kingdom. She couldn't see where or when it would happen, but that it was inevitable."

"It's possible they're going to strike at Beacon," Cinder said calmly. "If Clan Saxon was able to find vulnerable students here, then they must have had help."

"...She's right," said Glynda. "Who knows how they got here? And how they slipped past every camera we have in the Academy?"

"If they could do it once, they can do it again," said Djarin. "And the spy or spies they have here could be anywhere."

"It's settled then," said Ironwood. "We interrogate every student and staff member on campus, find out who did what and when they did it. If anyone resists or arouses suspicion, we could have a lead. In the meantime, Cinder will help with the Mandalorians we captured. Her powers will know how to scare them."

"..."

Djarin and Cinder shared a quick glance at each other, not very happy with the proposed plan. The Mandalorian was concerned about the lack of order the people at Beacon would cause at being interrogated like criminals. Cinder, however, was more worried about what kind of Maiden she would call herself if she used her powers for torture.

Fortunately, they weren't alone with the disagreement.

"Why must your answer to everything involve a triumphant display of military bravado?!" Glynda asked, just as disappointed in the General as the Mandalorians. "You treat every situation like it's a contest of measuring di-!"

"Glynda!" Ozpin said with a raised hand, not feeling the necessity for profanity.

Glynda didn't finish her sentence, but held onto her sentiment. "Well, he does."

"Professor Goodwitch is right," said Cinder. "General, I can't be using my powers to torture people. Regardless of whether they deserve it."

"I said we could scare them, not torture them," said General Ironwood. "I simply believe this will be good for you too. We heard of what you're capable of, and seen what you can do. We need to be putting your powers to better use than hiding them."

The Fall Maiden came to believe that the General was half right. "I mean, of course I need to be doing more. But I should decide when and where my powers are necessary."

"As should I," Ozpin said calmly. "As much as I too would love to end this situation once and for all, we must remember that this may go beyond Vale. Beyond Beacon. And if this truly is part of some master plan for which we know not the final move, we mustn't be so bold. Nor can we risk the spread of panic."

Djarin silently agreed with the Headmaster of Beacon, as did Glynda. But there was something nagging at both Ironwood and Cinder. And it was the former that let this feeling reveal itself.

"I have served you faithfully for years," he said. "But if you mean to tell me that your plan is to really hold the defenses, and wait-!"

"It is not!" Ozpin shouted as he stood up from his chair. Once the brief anger subsided, the Headmaster asked a question. "You're a general, James. So tell me, when you prepare to go to war, which do you send first? The flag bearers, or the scouts?"

"..."

Whenever he had discussions like this with Ozpin, General Ironwood always felt his logic and the army he commanded would be the right solution for problems involving Salem. But time after time, Ozpin's wisdom triumphed over him, showed the General that the course of action would be unwise. Today wasn't the first time it happened, and today certainly wouldn't be the last.

Despite the fact Ozpin had a point, General Ironwood wished just once he didn't find himself in agreement with his friend. He wished just once that something else would be necessary, that he could do something good with his army. If not, what kind of a general would he be?

Why couldn't he be right just once when it came to this war?

What would it take for Ozpin to see that a new approach would be needed?

"So that's it?"

Everyone looked over to Cinder, who was starring daggers at Ozpin. And based on the tone she asked her question in, it was clear the Maiden was far from happy. When she listened to everything Ironwood and Ozpin said, something inside Cinder snapped. And she refused to hold back anymore.

"So I'm just a scout?" Cinder asked in the same angry way. "I'm supposed to make a little hike to who-knows-where and report back to you?" Cinder pressed her hands on Ozpin's desk quickly. "Is that really all I'm supposed to do as the Fall Maiden?"

"I never said that," the Headmaster replied.

"You didn't have to." Cinder pressed her finger on the table. "That's exactly what I did, while I put my team and a professional Huntress in unexpected danger." An intimidating thought crept its way into Cinder's head. "Oh, that's it. You made Team CMFF to be your scouts. Made three oblivious girls leap straight into danger just to keep you informed? Did Dad really think Mountain Glenn was a good idea, to keep me away from the Chill?! Or is there more to the story?!"

Djarin could see that this was getting out of hand. The time for strategizing civil discussion was over. "Cinder, that's not true," he said as he took Cinder's arm. "It was my fault. My mistake."

"That doesn't change anything!" Cinder yelled as she shook Djarin's grasp. "Who knows how long she's been planning that invasion?! If we just sat right where we are, what could we have done to stop the Saxon Clan, huh?! Nothing!" The Maiden looked back to Ozpin. "You're plan isn't to hold the line?! Okay, then tell me this! What the hell are we going to do?!"

"..."

Glynda wasn't at a loss for words like Ozpin or Djarin were. So she decided to speak for both of them. "Cinder, that's enough," the woman declared. "We'll make a decision, one that doesn't involve acting recklessly."

"Not acting recklessly?" Cinder repeated. "Or not acting at all? I'm not going to be taking this kind of instruction while Salem has her next move laid out! That's not what I of all people should do!"

"The Maiden's responsibilities are what we say they are, young lady! Therefore, it would be in your best interest to listen to us!"

"Oh, I'm sorry! Was it you who found out I was the next Maiden?!" Cinder pointed at Ozpin. "Or you?!" She then walked back a few steps and turned around. "No! I chose to come to you, let you train me to do things like stopping the Saxon Clan, and now you're telling me not to attack back?!" Cinder began to stop yelling when she asked another question. "Is that really why you created the Maidens, Ozpin? Is it?"

"..."

With each word the Fall Maiden shouted, General Ironwood found his confidence in his earlier declaration returning. He found someone he could place his faith in, someone he truly believed could act exactly as a Huntress should.

"Cinder is right," Ironwood said calmly. "She's having the same mindset as me, the mindset this group should strive to-"

"The same mindset?!" Cinder yelled back at Ironwood. Now it was his turn to face the teenager's wrath. "You call that the mindset we should have?!" The Maiden pointed out Ozpin's window, where she could see two large airships above Beacon. "How many more ships do you need to send to an unsuspecting Kingdom, General?! While you're at it, how about you just move the whole city of Atlas on top of Beacon?!"

"I brought them here because they were necessary," General Ironwood replied sternly. "When people look to the sky and see my fleet, they feel safe. And our enemies will feel our strength."

"Oh, is that right?" Cinder asked sarcastically. "They feel safe, huh? How about you explain this, then?" Cinder pulled out her Scroll and tapped onto a small app. Once she showed the screen to General Ironwood, Cinder played a video of a group of students. Cinder knew them as Beacon Academy's Debate Club, which she had made some friends in. She learned of a very recent post they made on Beacon's student website after they came back from their missions, so she decided to check it out before coming to the meeting.

"Okay, here's an interesting one for both sides," a boy sitting in between two teams said. "Before we came back from our Huntsmen missions, General Ironwood arrived with students from Atlas Academy for the Vytal Festival. However, he also brought a surprising number of soldiers and military prototypes for what he calls 'extra security.' Should we agree or disagree on his methods?"

Cinder paused the video and looked at the speechless Atlesian. "This debate went on for almost an hour," she declared. "Eventually, both sides ended up agreeing that we should be considering 'alternative reasons for the presence of the Atlesian Military.' Don't believe me?" Cinder threw her Scroll onto Ozpin's desk. "Watch the rest yourself."

"I-"

"And another thing! I don't think the Saxon Clan was very scared today! They were willing to die to see their invasion through! You're not just being wrong, General! You're being ridiculous!"

"..."

The Mandalorian found a chance to step in again, trying to calm Cinder down. "Cinder-"

"All of you!" Cinder cried. "You're all being ridiculous! Your secrets, your orders, your army, they mean nothing!" Cinder pointed at the window. "Not while she's out there! While she's driven you to the point of being nothing but idiots!"

Djarin became angry himself and grabbed Cinder's shoulder. "Cinder, stop it!" he ordered.

"Let go of me!"

"Cinder, your eyes!"

"..."

Cinder lifted her hand to her face, which immediately began to burn. As she pulled her hand back, Cinder began to realize that she had no idea her powers were even showing. She had no idea that she was about to explode into flames.

Cinder knew that she had done something like this when she was a little girl; it was the reason she was sent to Haven Academy.

When the fire died down, Cinder looked back to see surprise and fear in everyone's eyes. Even though she regretted causing these emotions, she was still upset with everyone. So she apologized to the only person she could think of, the only person who deserved it.

"Sorry, Dad."

Just then, she immediately turned heel and walked straight to the elevator, not bothering to reclaim her Scroll.

"Cinder, where are you going?" Djarin asked, finally finding his voice.

"I need to get out of here before I do something I regret," Cinder said with malice while looking back at Ozpin and Ironwood. "And don't act like neither of you deserve it."

"..."

Cinder stepped into the elevator and pressed the button to the ground floor. Everyone watched her leave without trying to stop her. Ironwood, however, had a gut feeling as to what the Maiden meant by her claim.

"Djarin, did you daughter just threaten me?" he demanded.

"No, General," Djarin said as he turned back to the desk. "That was a warning." He looked back to Ozpin. "For both of your sakes."

"..."

As soon as the elevator descended, Cinder stormed out of it in a huff, still angry at everyone. She couldn't comprehend how they could squabble like children when they were clearly on the same side. While she was grateful that Djarin was able to restore a semblance of order to the room, she still found Ozpin's attitude to be too passive. And Ironwood was too sure of himself. Both attitudes were getting the group nowhere, especially Cinder.

"What's the matter? We don't say 'Hi' anymore?"

Cinder quickly turned around to see Qrow Branwen leaning on the wall behind her. Anger turned to surprise when she laid eyes on someone she hadn't seen in a long time.

"Oh," Cinder said with a soft chuckle. "Hi, Qrow." She quickly walked over and pulled him into a hug. "Wow, I haven't seen you in months."

"Same here," the Huntsman said as he returned the hug. "Yeah, we gotta catch up. But right now, I gotta talk to Oz." He let go of Cinder and began to walk to the elevator. But a noticeable groan from the Maiden made him stop walking. "You know what? I can be late for once." He turned around and began to walk with Cinder. "Everything okay up there?"

"Nope," Cinder said as she stopped walking and slumped on the ground.

Qrow sat beside her and chuckled. "Let me guess; Jimmy's taking your work at Mountain Glenn as a sign to let everything about the Maidens and Relics slip, and Oz is trying to keep him quiet."

"..."

The Huntsman noticed one other thing. "And Dad's being overprotective?"

Cinder ran a hand through her hair and sighed. "No, he was right this time," she insisted. "Besides, I can handle overprotective. What I can't handle is being played like a fiddle, whether it's staying quiet or being active."

"Hold on." Qrow turned to the frustrated teenager. "Jimmy I can understand, but did Oz say something?"

"Kind of." Cinder stood up and took a few steps. "I can't help but feel I'm being manipulated right now. Everything he said up there was putting us under his palm, even if it's for the good of Remnant." Her head was still spinning over what everyone said, and she genuinely felt that she had a right to be angry. Cinder had been used for someone else's benefits before, and she would be damned before it happened again.

Qrow stood up and walked over to Cinder. "Look, kid... I'm sure he didn't mean it like that," he said calmly. "If there's one man who knows what's best, it's definitely Ozpin."

Cinder looked Qrow in the eyes. "Why do you believe that?"

"Huh?"

"Qrow, I don't think I've met someone who was as loyal to Ozpin like you. When Ironwood's in the room, you always find a way to mess with him. But with Ozpin, it's something different. Why is that?"

Qrow laughed as he took out his flask. "Look, I had the same questions, too. But ol' Ozpin would always put his foot down. 'We can't cause a panic.' Can't tell you how many times I've heard that." He began to drink heavily from the metal.

"Right, he's said that to me too. He once said there would be another Great War, if everyone knew about the power of the Relics. But that doesn't answer my question."

Qrow looked back to the Maiden. "Right. Your question. You... What was your question again?"

Cinder rolled her eyes in slight annoyance. "I know you believe in Ozpin right now. I want to know why. How do you trust someone who plans rather than puts those plans to action? Is there something I'm missing here? Or am I just being stupid?"

Qrow took one more drink and put his flask down. "You're not missing anything. And you're sure as hell not being stupid, Cinder." He leaned against the wall. "The truth is... I'm glad he's like this. It's like you said, he doesn't put his plans to action. That's why he has people like us."

"And you're happy about that?"

"Definitely." Qrow looked down at his hands. "Before I met Ozpin... no one wanted me. I was cursed. I gave my life to him because he believed in me. And continues to believe in me. When I'm out there, I'm not hurting people like Mando. You haven't seen it, but I think I've done a good job at putting Salem's plans at a halt. Oz knows that's the best way we can hurt her. And you better believe you hurt her in those tunnels."

Cinder thought about the idea, how helping Ozpin always did the one thing she needed to do: hurt Salem. And Qrow had a point, having people to put his plans to action where he couldn't was a good reason to follow him. She was glad Qrow's loyalty wasn't blind, that he had the ability to chose for himself. And his good answer left the Maiden with just one more good question.

"What about him?"

Qrow looked away from his flask. "Hm?"

"You said you're not hurting people like Dad," Cinder reminded him. "That's... pretty specific. Why mention that?"

Qrow put his flask down with widened eyes, as if he made a mistake. "Oh, uh... it's nothing," he quickly said.

Cinder couldn't resist the urge to be skeptical. "Nothing?" she asked slowly with a raised eyebrow.

"Aw, shit. I shouldn't have told you that."

"Told me what?"

Qrow looked back at the elevator and realized how late he made himself. "Look, I can't talk now," he said. "Just talk to Mando tonight, he'll explain better than me."

"Qrow, wait a-!"

"Gotta go, bye!"

The Huntsman quickly turned into a crow and flew to the elevator, pressing the buttons with his beak. The elevator opened and closed quickly enough for the Huntsman to leave Cinder dazed and confused. She also felt a twinge of fear for her father, worrying that something was wrong. It was clear she wouldn't be getting answers from him or Qrow anytime soon, but Cinder was grateful for an answer about Ozpin. She was still unsure of his position, but she was far from okay with General Ironwood and his enormous force at Beacon.

But it was this number of Atlesians that gave Cinder an idea.

Quickly pulling out her Scroll, Cinder moved her finger across the phone numbers until she reached a specific one. She then pressed the number and put the Scroll to her ear.

"Hello?" a voice responded on the other end of the call.

"Hi Winter," Cinder said with a smile. "Any chance you're in Vale right now?"

The Maiden's wish had come true, as she was sitting in a pavilion with Winter and Penny. While Winter was happily drinking a cup of tea with Cinder, Penny was observing the architecture of the pavilion.

"Incredible!" she said as she ran her hand on a pillar. She stopped moving and looked at a plant growing around the stone. "What is this?"

"That would be ivy," Cinder replied. "I wouldn't touch it, though. It might be poison ivy."

"Cinder, I don't believe that will be a problem," Winter said as she put down her cup of tea.

"Oh, right." Cinder rolled her eyes at her mistake and simply pointed at the fountains. "Maybe stay away from the water, then."

"Yes, ma'am!" Penny replied as she moved to the table and put her hands behind her back. "Do you think we will have enough time to explore the city, Ms. Schnee?"

"In a few minutes," Winter promised. "We just sat down, after all." Winter looked back to Cinder. "So... Beacon vs. Atlas Academy."

"Right," Cinder remembered. This was something she wanted to talk about with Winter. "Let's see... Beacon lets us wake up and get breakfast before classes, which starts at eight."

"Atlas expects us to have eaten and start our morning drills at seven-thirty. We need to eat just the right amount so we don't get sick. Our classes are at eight as well." Winter took a drink from her cup. "And as you can see, this is the uniform we wear." She stood up to reveal a white and gray uniform.

Cinder was wearing her birthday present at the moment, so she couldn't show her uniform. "We have black, red, brown, and white. Still formal, but we don't look like we hate life."

"As much as I prefer these colors, I can see how dull they make me look." Winter had something else she wanted to talk about. "Atlas has bunk beds in our barracks."

"Beacon has regular beds. But our library has CCT computers outside the tower."

"Impressive. But I'm confident our library is superior in size."

"I haven't seen Atlas' library, but Beacon's is... considerable. I think we have about... almost eight thousand books." Cinder took a sip from her tea.

"Atlas has sixteen thousand," Winter said.

Cinder spat out her tea in shock and looked back to Winter. "Sixteen thousand?! How is that even possible?!"

Winter smiled once more. "Never underestimate the power of Atlas, Cinder."

"No arguments there." Cinder took another sip of her tea and gently put the cup down. "About that, do you mind if I ask you something?"

"That depends," said Winter. "Is it about all the ships and soldiers Atlas brought to Vale?"

Cinder's eyes slightly widened. "How did you-?"

"Lucky guess." Winter gently wiped her mouth with a napkin before continuing. "Truth be told, I was wondering the same thing. We're in a time of peace after all. But the General insisted that our numbers were necessary, that the people would be safer because of us."

"He says," Cinder mumbled sarcastically.

It wasn't loud enough for Winter to make out exactly what her friend said, but Penny's audio system was advanced to hear it. And she was also capable of repeating it through her own mouth.

"He says," Penny said with Cinder's exact voice.

Both girls looked back at Penny. Cinder was speechless at the sound of her own voice being used against her, but Winter remained calm. "Thank you, Penny," she said before looking back to Cinder. "You disagree?"

"I... Well..." Cinder needed another minute to regain her voice, and then she spoke from her heart. "I'm sorry, I'm just having a hard time making heads-or-tails with him."

Winter put her cup down once more. "I can't say the General isn't a complicated man, Cinder. But the more time you spend with him, the more you learn to understand why he does what he does."

"Is that why you admire him so much?" Cinder recalled that whenever she paid Winter a visit in Atlas, General Ironwood was never far behind. Whether he was talking with Winter's mother or the Mandalorian, General Ironwood always seemed to be in Winter's presence.

Winter spent a moment thinking about Cinder's question before giving a good answer. "Well... yes," she admitted. "I'm sure you remember that he was always around me when we were growing up."

"Yeah, no doubt," Cinder agreed, given that was what she was just thinking about.

"After Father died, General Ironwood became more of a friend to my family. Mother always appreciated the support and assistance he gave to the company. Whatever she, or we needed, General Ironwood was there. It was during that time that he saw something in me, something I didn't see until much later. And he continues to believe I can put that something to good use at Atlas Academy."

"May I present a point, Ms. Schnee?" Penny asked politely. After she nodded, Winter listened with Cinder. "General Ironwood is someone who knows how to give people a purpose. I am to be the Protector of Mantle while Ms. Schnee is to be an exceptional member of the Atlesian Military. Given my experience with her, I have calculated an eighty-five percent chance of her reaching the rank of Specialist by graduation."

"Eighty-five?" Cinder asked. "You go, Winter!" She quickly began to clap, which caused Winter to blush for a moment before regaining her composure. Cinder calmed down as well before asking another question. "So would you say you're happy with the purpose General Ironwood gave you?"

"The military isn't a place that leaves room for personal feelings," Winter declared. "But yes, Cinder. Given what he sees in me, I feel that the military is where I belong."

"I feel the same way about Beacon." Cinder raised her cup. "Here's to your future at Atlas, Winter."

Winter raised her cup and gently pressed it against Cinder's. "And to your future at Beacon, Cinder." As the two friends took one final drink of their tea, they failed to notice a saddened Penny stare at the ground.

After Cinder and her friends went their separate ways, she immediately made her way to Beacon's library. While she felt that she had gained a better understanding of the thoughts and feelings behind Ozpin and Ironwood, Cinder wanted to know what her father thought about everything.

But she remembered from Qrow that there was something that he wasn't telling her. And she couldn't help him or ask for his help if he couldn't be honest with her. The Maiden knew she would need guidance to help with a problem like this, but she didn't want to go to Ozpin or Ironwood for help. Instead, she went to the library and made a CCT call on one of the computers.

Cinder sat down at the terminal and waited for the screen to change. As she sat and waited, the Maiden's questions continued to play through her head. She felt that she had learned a lot when she talked to her friends, but they also left some questions unanswered. Even though she felt this discussion could conclude in the same manner, Cinder knew that she was in dire need of wisdom.

And she couldn't think of anyone wiser than Obi-Wan Kenobi, whose face had just appeared on the terminal in front of her.

"Hello there," the Jedi said with a smile.

"Hi, Headmaster," Cinder said with a small wave. "Sorry for calling you like this."

"Oh, it's no trouble at all. The Mistral Council is meeting with some of Haven's staff at the moment. I'm not brave enough for politics, so you're doing me a favor."

Cinder slightly laughed at the joke. "Glad to hear that. Speaking of which, I was wondering if I could ask you a favor."

"I expected something like that. There seems to be conflict within you."

Obi-Wan's intuition was right on the nose as always, so Cinder decided to explain her problem without drawing too much attention to herself.

"Well, I had a lot more to be conflicted about earlier," Cinder said calmly. "But I think I got that settled for the most part. All that's left is an issue between me and my father."

"I see," Obi-Wan said as he stroked his chin. "How may I be of help?"

"I have a good feeling he's been hiding something from me. Something about him getting hurt. I think he wants to hide it from me, and I'm sure you know he can be really pigheaded when he has his mind set to something."

"And you wish to know what it is."

"Exactly. I can't help him if he won't let me."

"Perhaps that is the problem." Obi-Wan moved back and put his hands down. "We all have our secrets, Cinder. Secrets exist because deep down, we all have our regrets and mistakes. Some of them are hard to face, but others exist to protect others."

"Like Ozpin's secrets?"

"Yes. And mine as well. Before it fell, the Jedi Order was hidden from the rest of the world; some of its secrets were reserved only for the Jedi Council. I cannot say mistakes weren't made, but I did not regret the choice to hide ourselves."

"For what?"

"Protection. There are people and places that could never understand what we did, why we existed in the first place. And they certainly would not understand the enemy we face."

"So basically, ignorance is bliss?"

"Sometimes. But not all the time. Your father may feel the secret he carries is for your own good, he may believe it could protect you against something."

"But I don't know what that is. And it sounds really serious."

"Then perhaps your ignorance is not so blissful after all. But the same cannot be said for the rest of Remnant."

"I guess not." Cinder thought back on her view of Ozpin when Obi-Wan explained the idea of hiding Salem from the world. "I still won't tell anybody about me or Ozpin."

"I'm pleased to hear that. In the meantime, go to your father, Cinder. Ask him what's wrong."

Cinder nodded and smiled at Obi-Wan. "Thank you, Headmaster," she said. "For everything."

"Good luck, Cinder," Obi-Wan said with a smile. "May the Force be with you."

"And you."

When the call ended, Cinder immediately made her way to her old room, thinking on all that happened to her. Her thoughts about secrecy had changed drastically, she began to see that not all secrets were unnecessary. She didn't know what would happen to Remnant if everything was brought to the public, and she didn't want to know. But at the same time, Cinder knew her purpose as a Maiden wasn't to be completely kept in the shadows.

She felt proud about saving the people of Vale from the Saxon Clan, and she couldn't have done it if she wasn't a Maiden. Yet she felt so powerless when the rest of Remnant's problems were out into play. Cinder could name at least ten ways the Maidens could protect the world at the cost of their secrecy, but their secrecy was the only reason Salem hadn't killed them all yet.

While her indecision plagued her mind, Cinder hoped an honest conversation with her father would put things into better perspective.

Cinder's knocks at a wooden door were answered by Djarin, who immediately let his daughter inside to talk.

"Are you okay?" Djarin asked calmly.

"Yeah... for the most part," Cinder replied as she sat at the table in the middle of the room. "Sorry I stormed off. It was too much to handle. And I needed to get control of myself."

"No arguments there." Djarin moved to the other side of the table and took off his helmet. "None of them were happy when we finally stopped talking."

"I can imagine. I actually spent most of the day figuring out what's going on with Ozpin and Ironwood. Qrow and Winter helped with that."

"So what do you think?"

"It's actually gotten easier to see where they're coming from, but harder to realize which of them is right." Cinder spun her finger on the wooden surface before her when she made a decision. "I was wondering if I could talk to you before saying anything else. But I don't want any secrets. Not with you."

"We can be honest with each other. I'm not keeping any-"

The teenager quickly looked up from the table and spat out the first thing on her mind. "Qrow told me that you got hurt with him."

"..."

"Dad, I'm not going to get mad again. Well, not as mad as before. I just... don't want to be kept in the dark. Regardless of whether you think you're protecting me or not. I want to... I have to know if something happened to you."

"..."

"Just say it."

The Mandalorian sighed and ran a hand through his hair. Knowing that hiding the truth from Cinder was no longer an option and that it was only succeeding in hurting her more, Djarin spoke the truth. "Three months ago... I helped Qrow with a mission in Mistral," he explained. "We were drawing Grimm away from Dust mines and killing them. One of Qrow's shots barely missed a Grimm. When it hit agitated Dust... the explosion caused a chain reaction."

Cinder gasped and widened her eyes. Although she wasn't with him, she could imagine the tremendous explosion and its capabilities. "...And then?"

"I was thrown out of the mine. The explosion knocked off my armor and pierced my body with shrapnel. Qrow carried me for over a day to find help. When we found it, my Aura had to be changed. Altered to heal the inside along with the outside of my body. Qrow blamed my weakened Aura on himself. The only thing I can blame him for is telling you when I asked him not to."

Cinder dried her eyes and stood up from the table. "Why?" she asked. "Why would you hide this from me?"

"I wanted to protect you, just like you said."

"From Qrow? He would never want to hurt me."

"Not from Qrow. From myself." Djarin stood up and moved closer to Cinder. "If you found out earlier, would you have still gone through your trials? Would you still have chosen to be a student at Beacon? Would you have gone to Mountain Glenn?"

"I-"

"Or would you stick to me like glue? Would you go with me every time I left Beacon? Would you have put your responsibilities aside to help me?"

"Well..."

Djarin moved closer and pointed at his daughter. "You were right. Every word you said earlier was right. You need to be doing something against Salem. You don't need anybody to hold you back. You don't need me to hold you back."

"But Dad, that's-"

"Ni urmankalar o'r gar, Cinder! Ni urmankalar gar liser cuyir te jatne Maiden bat Remnant!" (I believe in you, Cinder! I believe you can be the best Maiden on Remnant!)

"..."

Djarin lowered his finger and sighed. "That can't happen if I hold you back, if we let others like Ozpin or Ironwood control you. I understand that now."

Cinder finally felt the tears on her cheeks from her father's speech. She had no idea that she needed to hear all of that, for her father to give her a boost of confidence on one of the most confusing days of her life. Despite the fact there was secrecy and deceit, she couldn't help but feel love and pity for the Mandalorian who took her under his wing.

But Djarin was unaware of these feelings and had his own ideas behind Cinder's crying.

"You're mad, I get it," he said. "I lied to you, and I'm sorry. I never wanted-"

Cinder immediately wrapped her arms around Djarin. But before Djarin could return the hug, Cinder let go and rubbed his head, like he did when she was a little girl. "I forgive you, Dad," she said. "But no more secrets, okay? You have to promise me."

Djarin hugged Cinder and made his promise. "With you, it will only be truth."

Cinder hugged Djarin back and held him for a minute. After they broke the embrace, Cinder decided to put his promise to the test. "In that case, what do you think about earlier? With Ozpin and Ironwood?"

"Well... I don't exactly know."

"Yeah. Me neither." Cinder fell onto her old bed and vented her problems to her father. "I mean, I have a duty as a Maiden to protect everything and everyone from Salem. But I can't do that if I'm being secretive about it." She sat up and looked at Djarin. "Would you say you had a duty to the Mandalorians? To the Children of the Watch?"

"Of course." Djarin removed the Darksaber from his belt and ignited the black blade. "Before I got this, I had a duty to protect and secure the secrecy and survival of my clan. If one of us was exposed, we were all exposed. But after getting this, everything changed. It wasn't until I saw what remained of Clan Tenau that I realized there's more at stake here."

"I guess everything's different for both of us now."

"It is. I told you what Mi Tenau told me a long time ago, but that doesn't mean I can't be unworthy of this."

"The same goes for me as a Maiden."

"I don't mean to put you on the spot, Cinder... but what do youthink we should do?"

"..."

"No Vytal Festival has ever required this much security, regardless of the small breach in Vale. It was an issue that our local Huntsmen were able to handle with zero civilian casualties. So in conclusion, we should be cautious about trusting the General's forces."

"Team Two agrees with Team One. We relent. But, uh, nobody in Atlas is gonna see this, right?"

"Come on, Lily. This debate is just for fun. It's not like we're going to say this directly to his face."

General Ironwood had just finished watching the debate for what felt like the millionth time. Ever since Cinder gave everyone a piece of her mind, he couldn't help but watch the video of Beacon's Debate Team. And it did nothing but show that Cinder was telling the truth.

"It's been said that those things rot young minds away."

Ironwood turned around to see Glynda walking towards him, her eyes seemingly drawn to the Scroll in his hand. "I wonder if the same thing can be said about sharper minds," she said as she joined him.

Ironwood smiled as he turned off the small device. "Trouble sleeping?" he asked.

Glynda sadly nodded. "I haven't had this much trouble since the night I met Djarin. And I didn't feel like going home." Glynda stared off into the distance and sighed. "Today was, for lack of a better word, depressing."

"Agreed." The General looked down at the piece of technology once more. "I never thought I would see the day when the people of Remnant would think the opposite of me. I can understand Grimm, Mandalorians, even insubordinate soldiers. But I always thought I spoke for the people. It seems that... I was wrong."

"You're not the only one." Glynda turned back to the tall tower behind her. "Cinder may be a child, but I can't recall a time when I've seen someone like her so passionate in her argument. We were dealt with both cold logic and her heart back there."

"Both of which she seems to be a master of. Has Ozpin said anything?"

"No. And that is exactly what concerns me." Glynda finally turned back to the vast expanse. "He has experience that the rest of us lack. While I think that's something worth remembering, I've begun to see that there could be more it can teach us."

Ironwood sighed once more. "So we're being kept in the dark, then."

"Don't be ridiculous! You know very well that we are not the ones in the dark."

"That makes it worse! I refuse to believe that a man that I've trusted for so long would act so... passively."

Hearing her friend's criticism of Ozpin and Cinder's criticism of everyone in Ozpin's office made the professor realize something. Something that she realized a long time ago, that made her feel like the same fool Cinder said she was.

"Did you know that I destroyed an entire room in Beacon trying to hurt Djarin?" Glynda asked calmly. "A week after he first arrived, I mistakenly believed he hurt Cinder. So I lashed out."

Ironwood turned around and laughed for the first time in hours. "That's so unlike you. I wish I could have seen it."

Glynda rolled her eyes and sighed in embarrassment. "It wasn't my... proudest moment. I could have been passive, taken time to think about my next move. But instead, I attacked an innocent man and scared a little girl in the process."

"..."

"The same day, Djarin said something that finally got me thinking correctly. 'Like it or not, we're on the same side. We may be working together, but we're not... working together.' You don't agree with Ozpin, do you?"

"Not exactly," the General confessed.

"And I think it's clear that not everyone agrees with the overwhelming forces."

"...I suppose."

"You and Ozpin did and continue to do these things without any approval." Glynda put a hand on Ironwood's shoulder. "Perhaps we're not working together either."

Ironwood looked back at Glynda, feeling that his eyes had been opened for the first time in a long time. "Maybe you're right," he said. "So... what do you think we should do?"

"..."

"Thank you for the call, Glynda. We'll talk more with James tomorrow. For now, it seems we could all use some rest. Good night."

Professor Ozpin had just received word from Glynda that Ironwood was willing to discuss a new plan with him, one they could both agree on. While one would consider changing the mind of the General to be a rare victory, Ozpin wasn't in a very pleasant mood.

Nights like these came every once in a while for the Headmaster. Nights where the continued war he fought made him feel tired beyond belief. Because despite his best efforts, every piece of Cinder's argument still lingered in Ozpin's mind. While the old man had dealt with all sorts of insubordination from both students and his allies, Cinder was the first person to have ever left Ozpin troubled. He had been called a fool before, and it was something that never bothered him. But now, he was bothered by Cinder arguing about the real reason the power of the Maidens existing in the first place.

When everyone left his office, Ozpin thought back on the day he gifted part of his Magic to four young women. It was his goal to aid them in spreading their kindness and wisdom across Remnant. When he made them into guardians of each Relic, Ozpin began to forget what his original intention was.

On the other hand, Ozpin knew it was worth remembering that Cinder was still a child. Glynda had once mentioned her romanticized views of the Maidens, how she held the fairy-tale aspect close to her heart. She didn't have much experience against Salem, which was more than important than being a Maiden.

But if that were true, why was it that Ozpin still found himself bothered by Cinder's tirade? Why was it that he found himself agreeing with her after hours of careful contemplation?

All he could do was hope that the meeting he arranged with Cinder would provide some answers to these questions.

*BEEP*

Ozpin looked away from the window and towards the elevator. "Come in," he said. The door opened to reveal Cinder, who came alone. The professor couldn't explain it, but he was glad part of his team had returned. He had confidence that she had calmed down and was ready to make a proper plan as to what to do next.

"Professor Ozpin... I'm really sorry I almost lost control," said Cinder.

"We all have our good times and bad times, Cinder," said Ozpin. "I'm just pleased to see you have calmed down." Ozpin took an empty mug and poured a hot drink from his teapot, which he began to drink.

"I'm calm, but... I can't help but feel the same way I felt earlier."

Ozpin gestured for Cinder to sit down, which she did. After pouring her a drink, he gave Cinder a chance to talk. "Speak freely, Cinder. Please."

Cinder took one sip from her drink before talking. "I think you're right. That discretion is necessary for fighting Salem. But at the same time, General Ironwood had a good point about taking action. While I don't agree with some of the actions he's taken and wants to take, I think we need to be doing more. I think... I need to be doing more."

"I understand," said Ozpin. "Actually... I think I can do more than understand. I think I know exactly how you feel, how you think you can put your powers to better use than protecting the Relics."

"Why's that?"

"Because it was the original reason I created the Maidens in the first place." Ozpin moved his chair to look out the window once more. "Winter. Spring. Summer. Fall. The four kindest and selfless people I have ever known came to me, helped me overcome one of the worst times of my life. Back then, I was a simple hermit, doing nothing but living in the mountains. When they saw that hermit, they took action and shared gifts of wisdom and peace. More than I had ever done."

Cinder smiled fondly on what Ozpin said. She had read and heard the story so many times, and it had become her favorite fairy tale. Even though she was young and partially oblivious to the problems of the world, Cinder felt that the story had called out to her when she was a little girl. It was pushing her in the right direction, to fulfill a destiny she never knew she had. It not only gave her an opportunity to be a good Maiden, but to be a good person as well.

"When I first gave them their powers, I hoped they could continue to spread their gifts, new and old, across the world," said Ozpin. "It wasn't until I had found all four Relics that I got the idea to use their powers as guardians for the Vaults. I think... I lost sight of what it means to be a Maiden, by focusing on Salem." The Headmaster turned around. "But now, you showed me that the Vaults and Relics are secondary responsibilities to being a Maiden."

"I... I did?" Cinder asked, starting to feel proud of herself.

Ozpin stood up and walked over to Cinder. "You did. You take Salem's efforts as a problem to the world and want to stop them. It is an admirable quality, but I fear you lack the experience to do so."

"That's why I want to do more. To gain experience, even if I lose a fight. I might lose, but I won't stop trying to help the world."

"I'm actually glad you mentioned that. And if you find yourself able to... I'd like to know why it is you find Summer's lesson to be valuable. Why you choose to embrace the world as she did."

"That's..." Cinder began to chuckle awkwardly. "That's actually a good question."

"Living as long as me can cause someone to question just about everything. How do you think you are with answering?"

Cinder took one more sip of her drink and then stared at her reflection in the brown liquid. "Well... I think it was because Dad helped me see the world," she explained. "I was forced to look at it through small windows in the Glass Unicorn. Smaller than the Madame's heart, I'd say. It wasn't until I saw the rest of it, experienced the rest of it, that I got to see what it has to offer. Family, friends, love, and the chance to defend it all. Dad sees that with his clan and the Mandalorians, and so do I. But after a while, my line of thinking shifted towards the rest of the world."

"But the world isn't perfect."

Cinder chuckled again. "No arguments there. There's all kinds of bad in the world. The Saxon Clan, Jacques Schnee... Hell, even the Grimm are a constant factor in life. Evil is really easy, Professor Ozpin. You can gain just about anything you want with it. But if that's true, then why does good exist? It's not practical. It needs love, kindness, self-sacrifice; there's not a whole lot to gain from it. But there are still people who show it's possible to be good." Cinder looked up at Ozpin. "Dad didn't look past the surface, but I did. I've met people who showed me kindness; returning a favor, helping me when they could have turned me away. Do you know why all of that exists?"

"I'm afraid not."

"I didn't either, not at first. But it's like Winter said, in the fairy-tale. It's not that they did everything for you because you were special, but because they had that ability." Cinder stood up. "Good exists because it can exist. Because it sees what evil is and has the bravery to reject it." Cinder made a fire in her hands as well as her eyes. "Everyone always told me how brave I was. That I could do the same thing good does every single day to evil. And the Maidens' gifts are a symbol of that good."

Ozpin took one more drink before smiling and asking another question. "Do you really believe so?"

Cinder looked back to Ozpin and smiled. "I know so. And... I'd like other people to know that too."

"...Maybe you're right." Ozpin stood up and walked towards Cinder. "Maybe we can work together. We both can see when and where the Fall Maiden will be useful. Within reason, of course."

"Of course," Cinder replied with a smile. "Maybe you can tell me how the first Maidens spread their powers across the world."

"Perhaps I could. However... there may be a way to find out yourself."

Cinder's smile disappeared. "Um... I'm not sure if I can find a lot of research about that."

"No, I'm afraid not. But in time, maybe the Maidens can tell you themselves."

"Wait, what?"

Ozpin chuckled and leaned back on his desk. "You came in here to tell me there is more you can do. Now I think this is the right time to tell you the same thing."

"I don't understand."

"Your training has helped you grow both physically and mentally. You have focused on your capabilities, surpassing everyone's expectations. After everything you shared with me, I think now you can surpass your own expectations. By meeting Fria."

"Fria?" Cinder repeated. She then began to realize what the professor was talking about. "The current Winter Maiden?"

Ozpin nodded. "About a month ago, she discovered a power that I have not witnessed in a very long time. Something that not even Salem knows herself, which is one of the reasons she has been on the sidelines for now. She discovered how to become what I call a 'Fully-Realized Maiden.'"

"Fully-Realized? That sounds... intense."

"Intense... does not even begin to describe what Fria is capable of."

Cinder's curiosity was growing by the minute, given the fact she could become an even better Maiden. "Well, what can she do?"

"On the outside, Fria can create the perfect defense mechanism. But on the inside, there is... more than meets the eye." Ozpin finished his drink and put it down. "I will introduce you to her after the Vytal Festival. For now, let us stay vigilant against Salem." Ozpin placed a hand on Cinder's shoulder. "And together... we will find the right time for the Fall Maiden. You have my word."

Cinder walked out of the elevator with a new outlook on her day. She felt happy that she had learned so much, and was able to change the minds of several people. Not only that, but an actual chance to continue being a great Maiden was something she was more than ready to do. Cinder was confident that nothing could be better than this.

"Hey, there she is!"

Cinder quickly looked down the hall to see the Blair sisters moving towards her. "Oh, hey," she said with a smile. "Sorry we didn't meet up again sooner, I had some things to take care of."

"Yeah, no worries," said Flora, who was catching her breath from running. "Your dad said you'd be talking to Ozpin."

"Oh, you talked to him?"

"Yeah, we were actually looking for you," Fauna explained. "We figured you'd be either at our room or your dad's."

"Oh, that makes sense." Cinder began to walk back to her room with the sisters. "Trouble while I was gone?"

"Not really," said Merri. "Kinda the opposite, actually. With the Vytal Festival getting closer and closer, some of the professors decided to focus more on our training rather than classwork. So as of now, story-time has been put on hold!"

"About time," said Fauna, who then pretended to fall asleep on Flora's shoulder.

"Feeling's entirely mutual, little sis," said Flora. "I thought the madness would never end."

"Well, maybe another door opened while that one closed," said Cinder. "Looks like we have some training to do."

"I was gonna suggest that, but then I remembered what happened in the tunnels," said Merri. "And before you ask, nobody wants to give us extra credit for our mission."

"Ugh, then why did we save the city in the first place?!" Flora complained.

"So that there'd be a city tomorrow," Cinder said with a smile. "Let alone a Vytal Festival."

"Yeah, I guess so. Oh, about that. Hope there's no hard feelings about what we said."

"I was actually gonna ask the same thing." Cinder looked at the other sisters. "I guess you guys were right. I kinda jumped the gun with choosing Mountain Glenn."

"Well... there's that," said Merri. "But we still got some practice with overwhelming Grimm and Mandos. I don't think we were looking at the big picture at the moment."

"How could you? You got burnt while almost being eaten by botflies. If that's not one hell of a distraction, then I don't know what is."

"That's true. Regardless, the girls and I were able to do something for you while you were resting."

Cinder smiled once more. "Aw, you didn't have to. Unless it involved cleaning Flora's side of the room. That is definitely something that needs to get done."

"I said I would do it tomorrow," Flora recalled.

"Oh, yeah?" Fauna asked. "Well, 'tomorrow' was done two days ago."

"Ugh, fine. But I'm gonna need some help."

"Why should we help? It's your mess."

"But it's our room. My mess is your mess."

"That doesn't make any sense!"

Merri and Cinder stopped walking to watch the sisters argue more. But the arguing faded out when Merri tapped Cinder's shoulder. "One way or another, it'll get clean," she promised. "But I think you'd wanna see something." Merri pulled out her Scroll and moved the screen.

"What's up?" Cinder asked out of curiosity.

"Well, do you remember when you told me you were looking for your parents? Once we put our heads and Semblances together, we decided to take a look for ourselves."

Given this was the last thing she expected to hear, Cinder's jaw dropped. "For real?"

"Uh-huh. And, well..." Merri handed the Scroll to Cinder. "I think you're gonna wanna see this."

TheCourtofTalons · Oct 24, 2023

Chapter 35: The Introduction

Last night's ordeal and conversation with his daughter made it difficult for Din Djarin to get a lot of sleep. He had heard from Ozpin that his conversation with Cinder went well, but his other concerns were still lingering in his mind. The idea of another, and even larger, attack after Mountain Glenn and his allies disagreeing on a solution made the Mandalorian wonder if he could think of a plan.

When he awoke the next morning, Djarin simply sat at his table and thought some more. His ideas varied from leaving Beacon with Cinder to taking the fight directly to Salem. Leaving wasn't something he wanted to do, but Djarin knew it would be worth it if Cinder could be properly guided and follow her own instincts about using her powers. On the other hand, taking the fight to Salem with Mandalorians fighting behind the one who wielded the Darksaber could prove fruitful. Hurting her directly rather than delaying her plans could yield the results everyone wanted.

*BEEP*

*BEEP*

These ideas fled the Mandalorian's mind as he looked at his gauntlet, which had a message on the screen.

Incoming Call: General Ironwood

Djarin considered ignoring the call. He knew that both Ozpin and the General had gone through enough yesterday, and that a call at this time of day was serious. He found himself weary from both maintaining the peace between the two and his conversation with Cinder.

And yet, Djarin knew that ignoring a call like this would be unwise. So as he planned to keep the conversation brief, the Mandalorian reluctantly answered the call.

"Good morning, Djarin," said General Ironwood, who seemed to be in a rather pleasant mood. "I hope I didn't wake you."

"Good morning, General," said Djarin. "And no, you didn't." Intrigued by both his politeness and calm demeanor, the Mandalorian decided to probe further. "You... seem different."

Ironwood chuckled. "Not entirely. But change is actually what I'm calling you about. My morning wasn't very... ordinary. I can't remember the last time I had a conversation with Oz like the one I had earlier."

"You spoke with Ozpin?"

"I did. And thanks to the slap to the face Cinder was kind enough to provide... we've begun to collaborate on a better plan."

"...Is that so?" Djarin was sure that Glynda and Cinder would have been happy if they heard this. But Djarin didn't want to jump to any conclusions until he heard the details of this plan. "Tell me more."

Ironwood cleared his throat and straightened his collar before continuing, as if he was having trouble saying what he felt. "While Ozpin was able to convince me that my fleet is... excessive, I was able to convince him that we require a certain degree of force to contain this threat."

"I see. What did you decide to do?"

"Well, we decided to include two people into our efforts. We believe you're one of them."

"Me? How can I help?"

"Ozpin mentioned something about the Mandalorians you helped at Mountain Glenn, Clan Tenau. He said they were able to observe and predict the Grimm's next actions. He said that you studied this technique well. Is this true?"

"It is." Djarin had studied and practiced this technique, which helped him avoid danger a few times during his hunts. He was able to teach a few things to Cinder, and made sure to hone the technique whenever he could. Reflecting on this gave the Mandalorian an idea as to where the General was taking this conversation.

"Is something wrong?" Ironwood asked, taking note of Djarin's silence.

"No," Djarin answered quickly. "It's just that this technique isn't something that can be taught overnight. I don't think even Professor Port knows it. I struggled with it for a month before being able to see the Grimm differently."

The news seemed to have no effect on Ironwood's attitude, as he continued to discuss his plan. "Understandable. Which brings me to my second point. My fleet is comprised of competent officers who graduated from Atlas Academy with honors. One of them is known for his ability to see a... bigger picture, when it comes to strategy. I'd like you and Ozpin to meet him."

Djarin pondered the idea of inviting a new member to Ozpin's circle, and wondered how a common Atlesian officer could turn the tide. "Do you trust him?" he asked.

"I trust his ability to succeed," the General answered. "So far he has yet to disappoint me."

*KNOCK*

*KNOCK*

*KNOCK*

Djarin looked towards his door, curious as to who would be knocking so early. But before he answered it, Djarin looked back to his wrist. "I'm sorry, General," he said calmly. "I'll have to call you back."

"Don't bother," said Ironwood. "We can talk more aboard my ship, if you're interested in meeting with us."

"I am. I think this idea might be a push in the right direction."

"Good. Oz just walked in, we'll see you shortly."

"Alright, then." Djarin turned off his screen and moved to the door. Opening it, he was greeted by his daughter once more, with a big smile on her face. "Cinder. Back so soon?"

"I had to come," she said. "There's something I wanted to talk about."

Djarin stepped aside to let her come in once more. "If it's about Ozpin, you did a great job with him. He and General Ironwood began to collaborate this morning. It's about time, if you ask me."

"Amen to that," Cinder said as she sat down. "I'm happy to hear that, but there's something else I wanted to talk to you about."

Djarin sat down across from her and took off his helmet. "Go ahead."

Cinder took a deep breath before she spoke. "Okay. After I talked to Ozpin, Merri and her sisters found me outside his office."

"I figured as much. They came here last night, looking for you."

"They said they wanted to help me after our mission, while I was resting."

While Djarin was talking to Cinder, he was also paying attention to her obvious mannerisms. While she usually sat still, Cinder was practically jumping up and down in her seat. And her fingers were quickly tapping the tabletop. She seemed to be impatient and excited about talking right now. This and her wide smile were showing a complete opposite to her earlier nature.

"How exactly did they... 'help' you?" Djarin wondered.

"Well..." Cinder tapped her fingers faster and continued to bounce in her seat. "Don't ask me how they did it, but..." Cinder suddenly jumped off the chair. "My teammates found my parents!"

To say the news surprised the Mandalorian would be an understatement. He too had spent whatever time he could to help his adopted daughter find her birth parents, to find out who she was. And to think that three young girls did it in less than a day compared to the year he had worked on left Djarin completely off guard. Which was why he asked another question.

"They... They what?" Djarin asked calmly.

"They found my parents!" Cinder said again. "Well, my mom, actually. They said they picked up where I left off and used their Semblances to probe harder than I ever could. And they found them!" Cinder's excitement caused her to have some trouble breathing, so she sat down again to catch her breath.

Djarin was still surprised at the news, which led him to investigate further. "Cinder, that's... great news," he said with a small smile. "But... are you sure? That it's-?"

"Really her?" Cinder finished as she began to calm down. "Yeah, I'm... I'm sure." Cinder pulled out her Scroll and showed Djarin an image of a beautiful woman with long golden hair. "This is Sandie Collins, a social worker in Vale." Cinder showed a different picture, a paper record of names. "Fifteen years ago, she gave a baby girl up for adoption at an orphanage in Mistral, the Swan Lake."

"The timeframe fits," said Djarin. "But we searched through the orphanages in Mistral, I don't remember a place called the Swan Lake."

"That's because a fire burned it down a long time ago." Cinder paused for a moment. "A lot of children... didn't make it out." Cinder cleared her throat after pausing a second time, feeling saddened by the idea of someone dying at a young age. "But the ones who did were sent to different orphanages. These didn't go recorded, since most records were burnt in the fire."

Djarin pointed at the picture. "Except this one."

"Yeah." Cinder turned off her Scroll. "And according to the medical report I've kept when I started looking, we're... a perfect match!" Cinder began to grow excited again. "Oh, I can't wait to meet her! To know what's she like! Maybe I can even meet my father! I wonder if I have anything in common with her, or if..."

The rest of Cinder's curiosity faded out to the Mandalorian. Djarin understood how excited Cinder was, how happy that months of hard work and determination finally had a reward for her. He knew that this was something she wanted for a very long time, so much that she would sometimes lose sleep while searching whatever lead or record she found.

And yet, Djarin couldn't share her enthusiasm. He couldn't feel the need to be as happy as the day he officially adopted Cinder or when she earned her own armor. In fact, he felt the opposite. Doubt seeped it's way into Djarin's mind, made him wonder if there was room in Cinder's life for more than two parents.

"-ad! Hey, Dad!"

The Mandalorian stopped thinking and looked back at Cinder. "Huh?" he audibly asked.

"I asked if you wanted to meet my mom with me," said Cinder. "It would make sense that the two of you meet, right?"

"Um... right," the Mandalorian answered. "It makes sense, you're right."

Cinder stopped smiling. "Dad, are you okay?"

"I'm fine," Djarin lied. "I'm sorry, I was just thinking about what the General said." He then formed a smile and held Cinder's hand. "I'm happy for you, Cinder. I know you've wanted this for a while."

"I have," she confirmed. "I'm gonna meet her after school today."

"Wait, I wouldn't do anything yet."

"What? Why not?"

"Showing up unannounced might scare this woman. And I should be there with you. I'm not teaching Combat today, not after the missions everyone went on. I'll be meeting the General instead."

"Oh, um... okay. Let me know how it goes."

"I will." Djarin stood up and opened the door again. "Have a good day at school."

"Thanks." Cinder stood up and hugged Djarin. "See you later." She then made her way towards her first class, leaving Djarin to lock his door and teleport away.

Djarin had teleported himself to the Razor Crest, which he flew to the flagship of General Ironwood's fleet. He was greeted with the usual stares and gasps of surprise from Atlesian officers. Some of them had never seen a Mandalorian before while others were still on edge about the incident at Mountain Glenn. And yet, Djarin paid no attention to any of them. He simply followed the instructions Ironwood gave him when he landed on the ship, and found himself right where he wanted to be; the ship's bridge.

"Djarin!" Ironwood exclaimed in pride as he offered a hand out to his guest. "Glad you could join us!"

"General," the Mandalorian replied calmly as he shook the General's hand. "I came here as soon as I could."

"And for that, we are grateful," said Professor Ozpin, who was also in the room with Ironwood. "Glynda sends her greetings."

"We hope the time you took to arrive was enough to think about our idea more," said Ironwood.

"It did," Djarin confirmed. "But I'd like to meet this officer first, see what it is we can achieve together."

"Understandable. He, Ozpin, and I just spoke. He'd like to meet you as well." Djarin looked around the vast space, seeing officers all over the place. Ironwood noticed this and stated the misunderstanding. "Oh, he's not here. He decided to get a head start in his office. You can take the elevator five floors down."

Djarin nodded and walked back to the elevator. Before he entered, however, Ozpin walked up to him and said one more thing.

"He knows what we're trying to fight, not who we're trying to fight."

Djarin nodded once more, promising to keep Salem's existence a secret for the moment. He then stepped into the elevator, making his way five floors down from the bridge. The silent ride and attitudes of his allies began to make the Mandalorian feel more optimistic about his future, as well Cinder's. While leaving Beacon was out of the picture, he still had the idea of taking the flight to Salem. Perhaps after meeting this Atlesian officer, the idea could be brought to light.

And the only other thing that could be brought to light was the room the elevator had just stopped at.

Djarin looked inside to see a very dim room, the only light present was something in the center. The surrounding space was nothing but darkness, leaving Djarin confused and on edge.

"...Hello?" he called out.

"..."

Djarin took a risk and stepped into the room. When nothing happened, he took another step. "Hello?" he called out once more.

"Mandalorian."

A low gruff voice caused Djarin to immediately look to his right. Two hands quickly pressed against his upper chest and pushed him, causing the Mandalorian to fall to the ground. As he did, Djarin saw something jump over his body and land directly behind him.

The Mandalorian quickly got back on his feet and pulled out his pistol. Firing two shots made the shape retreat by jumping once more.

Deciding to level the playing field, Djarin used his helmet to see in the dark. His thermal vision revealed a humanoid figure standing on all fours, one that charged at him once more. Seeing two feet prepared to kick him, the Mandalorian grabbed them and used all his strength to swing and throw the body against the wall.

The figure appeared to be disoriented from the crash, but it was only for a moment. It quickly stood back up and leapt at the Mandalorian, who teleported away. While the figure was able to catch itself before crashing into another wall, a wire shot around its legs and caused it to fall down. When it turned around to see a dark blade at its throat, the attacker finally conceded by slowly raising its arms.

Djarin was able to see his attacker in a different light, and came to see that he was fascinatingly ugly. His dark gray skin covered him from head to toe, seemingly hairless all over. And his mismatching eyes seemed to be the icing on the cake.

*CLAP*

*CLAP*

*CLAP*

*CLAP*

*CLAP*

The sound of hands clapping against each other made the Mandalorian slightly turn to his right, back to the middle of the room. In order to see both people, Djarin picked up the attacker and dropped him closer to the shape.

"Impressive," another voice from the center of the room called out. "Very impressive." The fixture in the middle revealed itself to be a chair, one that spun backwards and revealed another abnormal man. One with blue skin and hair that contrasted with his dark red eyes, who was wearing a white uniform. "General Ironwood said you were a competent warrior, as did the legends surrounding your people. But I did not expect my friend's test to end so quickly. It has certainly done you justice."

"..."

The Mandalorian didn't give up the position he had over the apparent officer's "friend." And yet, seeing someone wearing the Atlas uniform and the idea that this was simply a test made Djarin feel somewhat relieved, as did the man's next small speech.

"I am Admiral Thrawn," the blue man introduced himself as he stood up. "Second in command to the Atlas air fleet. And... you are?"

Djarin finally lowered the Darksaber and released the officer's friend, who quickly ran towards the chair. "...Din Djarin," he reluctantly said.

Thrawn began to walk closer to the Mandalorian. "Your appearance is... very striking. Not too different from the Mandalorians we have in custody."

The Mandalorian heard whispers and rumors on the airship before, that some officers were worried that he would be like the Saxon Clan or share their goals. "I'm not like them. Though that may be hard to believe."

Thrawn formed a small grin as he stopped in front of Djarin. "Much easier to believe than you might imagine," he said calmly. "I have seen enough of this world to expect the extraordinary. And you are extraordinary." He then pointed to Djarin's hand. "You must be, if you're able to wield a weapon such as the Darksaber."

Djarin looked at the metal in his hand, and then back to the Admiral. "You know this?"

"I do. And much more." Thrawn walked back to his chair and pressed a button, which caused the light around it to expand across the entire room. The revealed images of Mandalorian armor, old paintings, and numerous weapons surrounded everyone. "I have to know more, mind you."

Djarin looked away from the pictures and back to the Admiral. "Why's that?" he asked.

Thrawn simply stared at each picture. "To defeat an enemy, you must know them," he replied calmly. "Not simply their battle tactics, but their history. Philosophy. Art." Just as he said the final word, Thrawn turned his eye to Djarin, specifically his shoulder. "Such as the piece you wear on your shoulder. A Rinocer, if I'm not mistaken. Not a very common symbol with the clans that remain." Thrawn pointed to the picture behind Djarin, which showed multiple symbols. Some of them Djarin recognized from meeting Clans Vizsla, Saxon, and Eldar. "Which can only mean you are an outsider, are you not?"

"...You could say that." Djarin could see that the Admiral was definitely one who conducted long research, but that wasn't very unexpected for someone in his position. Nevertheless, the Mandalorian decided to humor Thrawn to clear the air. "I'm a member of my own clan, a clan of two. Myself and my daughter." Before the Admiral could respond, Djarin made his point. "But I didn't come to talk about the Mandalorians. There's another threat."

"Indeed," Thrawn confirmed. After pressing the chair's button once more, the images changed from art to charts, reports, and images of Grimm. "Ever since the failed attack by the Saxon Clan, Grimm activity has surged alarmingly. From the citizens to the Vale Council, everyone has asked how we intend to respond. After all, the Vytal Festival tournament cannot be broadcast, let alone held, if we are unable to maintain peace."

"Agreed," Djarin bluntly replied. "But I'm sure General Ironwood feels his fleet is the correct option."

"From a certain point of view." Thrawn walked over to a certain image, a Beowolf lunging at the screen. Thrawn simply put his hand to his chin, meeting the red eyes with his own. "As I said, everyone wants to see how to contain this threat. However, I am more curious as to why it's happening to begin with. The attempted breach may have caused unrest, but this is different. Or so I believe." The red eyes moved from the Grimm to Djarin. "I also believe you are the perfect person to confirm my theory."

When Admiral Thrawn introduced himself, Djarin was beginning to piece together what it was that he wanted. But now, the Mandalorian was able to put it all together and come to a logical conclusion. "You want to understand the Grimm better," he realized.

"Yes," Thrawn confirmed as he walked over to a different screen. "You should have everything you need here. Please, demonstrate for me how you can understand the behavior of these creatures."

Djarin walked over to the screen, which had multiple reports and video footage of Grimm packs. While he was happy to help, Djarin knew that what the Admiral wanted to achieve would take time and patience.

"What you want to learn can't be done overnight," said Djarin. "It takes discipline, patience, and time."

"I am a careful learner, Din Djarin," said Thrawn. "My mind is open, and we have a few days before the tournament begins. In short, I am ready whenever you are." Thrawn gestured to the screen once more, leaving Djarin to make his choice.

"In that case... let's get started."

The afternoon had arrived, leaving all the students to eat lunch. The Blair twins had just come back from their room with plates of meat for Team CMFF to share. As they were eating, Flora pointed something out to her sisters. "Look alive, ladies," she said. "We've got company."

Merri and Fauna looked in the same direction as their sister and locked their gazes on something new. Today was the final day that students from every other school were allowed to come to Vale and compete in the Vytal Festival Tournament. Many different uniforms were present at the scene, from all across the world. Other students, mainly boys, were wearing regular clothes, but it didn't matter to the sisters.

"Look at all of them," said Merri, who just finished a bite of meat. "I could eat them up."

"Check out the blonde," Fauna said as she pointed to a blonde boy from Vacuo wearing a ripped shirt. "Oh, man. I want that for my birthday."

Flora whistled as two Faunus walked by. "Never tried a Faunus before," she said. "First time for everything."

Merri hummed at the idea. "Beacon's having this dance tomorrow. Looks like you'll get your chance."

"I wonder which one I should pick."

"I wonder what I'm gonna wear."

"I can whip something up after school. You want in, Cinder?"

"..."

The team leader's silence caught everyone's attention. Each sister looked to see Cinder sitting in silence, simply poking her food.

"Hey, Remnant to Cinder!" Fauna said as she nudged her leader's arm.

"Huh?" Cinder audibly asked as she looked over to her friend. "Did you say something?"

"We've been saying things ever since we sat down," Fauna confirmed. "You okay?"

"Ah, it's no big deal, sis," Flora insisted. "Cinder's already got a man of her own." The comment caused Merri to pull on her hair. "Ow! Hey!" She turned over to her sister. "What was that for?"

"Forget the boys," Merri ordered as she turned over to Cinder. "Fauna's right to be worried, Cinder. Something got you down?"

"...Yeah, actually," Cinder confirmed. "I, uh, told my dad what you told me last night."

Merri and Fauna looked at each other, seemingly reading each other's thoughts. However, Flora wasn't entirely understanding. "You told him we almost burned our room cooking?" she asked, earning another hair pull from Merri. "Ow!"

"No, you dunce!" Merri said.

"I think Cinder's talking about us finding her mom," Fauna deduced. She turned back to her leader. "Is that true?"

"Uh-huh," said Cinder.

"Oh, right," Flora said as she got her hair free from Merri's grasp. "So, uh... how'd it go?"

"That's what I'm thinking about." Cinder put down her fork and looked at everyone. "I was pretty excited when I first told him."

"Well, duh," said Merri. "You had a right to be excited."

"But your dad wasn't excited, was he?" Fauna asked.

"Not really," Cinder admitted sadly while looking down at the table. "I didn't see it at first, because I was so excited. But looking back made me see that... he wasn't just not excited. He wasn't too happy, either."

"Really?" Flora asked.

"Why not?" Merri asked.

"I don't know," Cinder said as she held back tears. "I can't figure out if it was something I said, or the way I said it." She looked back to her teammates. "The day I told him about this, I feel that I made it clear I'm not trying to get away from him. But I don't know if he believes that."

The sisters looked at each other for a few moments. Suddenly, they all leaned closer to each other, huddling up away from Cinder. Just as she was about to lean closer and try to hear what they were saying, the sisters looked back to Cinder.

"You want our advice?" Flora asked.

"We can see where you're coming from," said Fauna. "And we might be able to help."

Merri quickly wrapped her arm around Cinder and pulled her close before she could respond. "Just ask yourself a simple question," Merri said.

"A question?" Cinder asked in confusion. "What question?"

Merri took a deep breath and bluntly asked Cinder the question. "Who cares what he thinks?"

Before Cinder could respond, Merri's sisters quickly backed up the idea. "Merri's right," said Flora. "We don't care what your dad thinks. Why should you?"

"You worked so hard for this," said Fauna. "So what if you had a little help along the way? You still found your mom."

"And if Mr. Djarin's not happy, don't let that get you down."

"It's not his mom we're talking about here."

"Didn't you tell us you wanted to find out who you were? And why you were taken to an orphanage?"

"Now's your chance. You shouldn't let anyone stop you."

Merri quickly silenced her sisters, seeing that they did a good job to enforce her point. "Does your father want you to wait before meeting her?"

"Um... yeah," said Cinder, who was thinking about what her teammates had suggested. "Yeah, he said he wants to be with me."

"Screw that!" Merri said. "Who knows how long he'll keep you waiting?"

"Merri's right," said Fauna. "Did he give you a timeframe?"

"Well... no," said Cinder.

"Then let's not have one!" said Flora. "We can find her address before next class starts. Then we'll go after school."

Cinder couldn't explain it, but she was having a hard time finding a way to argue against her teammates. They were trying their best to help her, making a plan that would happen almost immediately. Cinder loved her father, loved him enough to obey his orders when they both deemed it necessary.

But now, Cinder knew that finding her mother when answers were within her grasp was more important than being obedient. With or without any approval, she would meet her mother today.

"You know what?" she asked. "You're right. If you're all willing, let's do it."

"We've got no place else to be," said Merri. "Right, girls?"

"Right!" Flora and Fauna replied simultaneously.

"Okay, then," Cinder decided. "For better or worse... I'm meeting my mom. Today."

When the afternoon had arrived, Djarin found himself still aboard Ironwood's ship. He hadn't left the room he met Thrawn in, and neither had the Admiral. In that time, Djarin had discovered that the lessons Clan Tenau taught him were more difficult to teach than learn. But the Admiral had not wavered once in the hours of instruction, and he didn't waver when Djarin decided to put the lessons into action.

"Let's review," said Djarin, who played a video of soldiers shooting Grimm. In the video, the soldiers had just killed a pack of Beowolves. The Alpha, however, ran away before being shot. When the soldiers gave chase, the screen cut to black after a minute. The Mandalorian turned to the Admiral, who didn't take his eyes off the screen.

"That was all the footage we could find of their bodies," said Thrawn.

The Mandalorian nodded. "It tells us a lot. What do you think it tells?"

Thrawn stroked his chin and continued to stare at the screen. "Their fatal error was chasing after the Alpha. It is the reason they're no longer with us."

Djarin could see that as well, and continued to test his student. "Why?" he asked calmly.

"Their are subtle detections left by the Grimm." Thrawn rewinded the video and stopped on the Alpha. "This Alpha appears to be... lazy, if you will. It simply led its pack to attack these men and stood back."

"Correct," Djarin noted. "But an Alpha is much more deadlier than a common Beowolf, it should have no problem joining the carnage."

"Indeed." Thrawn played the video once more. "But there's something else... here." Thrawn watched the Alpha stand still while its pack was being decimated. "See here. It's smelling the ground, attempting to detect a scent." Just as the Admiral said, the Alpha was smelling the ground. First, it smelled the left. And then it smelled the right. After this, it took off running towards the right.

"This was when the soldiers died," Djarin reminded his student.

"Because... this was not a retreat," said Thrawn. "This was... a reunion. One with larger numbers than before. One that could easily decimate these soldiers."

Djarin turned off the screen and looked back to the Admiral. "Well done," he said. "This is the third video that you've seen and successfully analyzed. It seems I misjudged you."

Rather than accept the compliment, Thrawn focused on the second part of that sentence. "It's the skin, isn't it?" he replied.

Djarin looked back in confusion, but then realized what he said. "I meant with learning Grimm behavior. It takes a long time to learn, but you've been successful in putting it to practice."

Thrawn realized his error and began to correct it. "Ah, I see. My apologies, Mr. Djarin. I'm simply used to the shallow comments of my peers and subordinates, as well as their initial misjudgment of me."

"I always knew the Faunus were never treated fairly in Atlas. Even after the war, Mandalorians were still treated as enemies of the Kingdom. General Ironwood once hunted me, along with Major Gideon."

"Major Gideon?" Thrawn grinned. "Now that is a name I haven't heard in a long time."

"You knew him?"

"I did. His actions of betrayal and secession were understandable. Respectable, even. It takes courage to see Atlas as it is and try to make such a... drastic change."

"Perhaps I could have respected him." Djarin looked down. "If he didn't try to kill me."

Thrawn looked back at the Mandalorian. "Well, there's that. Unfortunately, his master plan was destined to fail, given his failure to assassinate the General."

"I know. The odds of accomplishing that were hardly in his, or anyone's favor." Djarin looked at the metal hilt on his belt. "Even when he wasn't using this weapon, he came closer than anyone I know to killing him."

"And yet, there is something Ironwood has, the one law he allows himself to be governed by; the right of survival. One I know myself." Thrawn smiled as he saw an opportunity to educate Djarin as he had educated him. "Nobody can guess what kind of Faunus I am. Perhaps you can, Mr. Djarin?"

Djarin couldn't see the relevance behind the exercise, so he decided to get back on track. "Let's not... get off topic," he suggested.

"I won't be offended, if that's what you're worried about," the Admiral promised. "Besides, I wish to know."

Djarin reluctantly humored Thrawn and looked closer at his skin. "I once knew a man who came close to dying by going into the woods. The reason was because a small but poisonous animal had made contact with his exposed skin. It was called a 'dart frog,' and it was the same color as you."

Thrawn grinned once more and hummed at the idea. "I'm also familiar with that kind of frog," he said. "A very good guess. But, I'm afraid you're wrong."

"No other blue animal really comes to mind, then. Except aquatic life. But I wouldn't label you as such."

"That is wise. As I mentioned, nobody else can guess what kind of Faunus I am. Do you know why?" Djarin shook his head. "It's simple, really. I am not a Faunus."

"You-You're not?" Djarin asked in surprise. The Admiral simply shook his head. "But... how did-?"

"This happen?" Thrawn asked. "Like I said, Mr. Djarin. I am governed by the will to survive. As well as my open mind." The Admiral walked over to the wall, specifically an Atlas flag that was hanging on it. Moving the flag, the Admiral looked at the wall and spoke at it directly. "Mitth'raw'nuruodo."

An electronic voice suddenly rung out. "Access granted," it said as the wall opened.

Thrawn looked back to Djarin. "My family name," he explained. "Come here." Djarin walked over to Thrawn as he reached inside. "I am grateful to you, for sharing your secrets. As a sign of good faith, I am giving you my word that I am prepared to put this knowledge to good use. Furthermore, I'd like to share a secret of my own with you." He then pulled out his hand to reveal a small glass bottle, filled with a blue substance. "Here."

Djarin took the bottle and carefully opened the lid. As it moved when the bottle moved, it gave away its identity. "This is Dust," the Mandalorian observed.

"Not just any Dust," said Thrawn. "This is Cobalt Dust. Very rare, but very powerful. And not just as a fuel source."

Djarin pondered the possibility of making it like his blaster ammunition. But first he wanted to see what it was like. "What does it do?" he asked calmly.

"When it comes into contact with another substance, it takes over and splits apart rapidly," Thrawn explained. "Like a cancer, it divides uncontrollably. However, it has the ability to heal rather than destroy."

"Heal?"

Thrawn nodded and continued to explain. "My family was known for two things in Atlas. One was that they had quite the reputation in the military, as common soldiers or officers of the fleet. I naturally joined, and my father taught me everything he knew. However, some of us had a rare genetic disease that proves fatal. Unfortunately, I inherited it."

"And the Dust helped you?"

"A very skeptical idea, I know. Given the amount of deaths caused by close contact with Dust, it only seemed natural that I would die regardless. But I didn't let that stop me. I received weekly treatments of Cobalt Dust until my disease was eradicated."

"That's... quite the cure."

"Indeed. But as you can see, there were... side effects."

"Are they lethal?"

"Quite the opposite, actually." Thrawn pulled out something else from his wall safe; a picture of a young man with chalk white skin and hair. "I was an albino before receiving treatment. The Dust appeared to see my albinism as cause for treatment. Although why... I still have yet to learn. I wasn't ashamed of it, nor am I ashamed of my current appearance." Thrawn moved away from the wall to show Djarin that the safe was filled with multiple vials of Cobalt Dust. "Forgive my paranoia, but I don't take chances with my life."

"Nor do I," Djarin said as he handed the now sealed vial back to the Admiral.

"It is for you to keep," said Thrawn.

Djarin looked back at the vial, and then the safe. "No, I-"

"Take it." Thrawn closed the safe and moved the flag back. "It is my gift to you, as a token of my sincerity. Use it wisely."

Djarin looked at the unique Dust. Seeing no reason to turn it down, the Mandalorian placed his gift inside his utility belt, making a reminder to take it out once he returned home. "Thank you," he said.

"No. Thank you." Thrawn began to walk back to the elevator. "These past few hours have been very educational, Mr. Djarin. I look forward to seeing what I can learn on my own."

"You want to stop?"

"Stop learning?" Thrawn softly chuckled. "Never. However, I'm currently conducting an investigation that requires my full attention. Your lesson will make this task far less tedious, I assure you." Thrawn stopped at the elevator and pressed its button.

"If you insist," said Djarin, who stood still and waited for the elevator. "If your investigation is what I think it is... let me leave you with another lesson. Some advice, actually." Thrawn looked at Djarin, giving him his full attention. "When it comes to the Grimm, we Mandalorians don't bite off more than we can chew. Even when we're ready to put what we've learned into practice."

"... I can't help but feel excited, you are correct," the Admiral confirmed. "But I will be patient. Thank you, Mr. Djarin." As the two shook hands, the elevator arrived. "Safe travels." The Mandalorian stepped inside, leaving Thrawn to walk back to his chair.

"Don't bite off more than you can chew?" a voice from behind called out. Thrawn turned around to see his gray friend step out of the darkness and into the light. "Does he think we're children? Or just stupid?"

"Neither," said the Admiral. "He simply urges caution. Which is something you failed to do, Rukh."

"He only won because he had the armor."

"He won because you had no strategy." Thrawn walked over to his companion. "Your agility and strength are not as intimidating as you believe." He then placed a hand on Rukh's shoulder. "Your mother and father, both different Faunus, gave you those abilities, but they also gave you a brain. Remember to use it, and you will succeed."

"..."

Content that Rukh had learned his lesson, Thrawn sat down and pressed a button on his chair. A screen appeared with General Ironwood's face on it. The Admiral stood up and saluted the man before him. "General Ironwood."

"At ease," the General said as he saluted. Thrawn sat down and listened to Ironwood speak. "How did everything go?"

"Very enlightening. You were right about the Mandalorian. I'm confident that his knowledge will help with my investigation."

Ironwood smiled. "I knew it would. Along with the Grimm, I have new orders. Professor Ozpin and I were able to work together and determine how the... excessive fleet can provide Vale the security it needs. I'd like you to rearrange the fleet according to the instructions I just sent you."

Thrawn heard the Scroll in his pocket vibrate, which caused him to open it and look at the instructions. "Consider it done," he promised. "While this is happening, I'd like to request permission to leave the ship."

"For what purpose?" Ironwood asked.

"Mr. Djarin and I were able to use recent recordings in our lesson. Based on what I learned, I believe there may be more to the Grimm's presence than meets the eye. I'd like to personally prove this idea."

"Very well. Is there anything else you require?"

Thrawn took out his Scroll and tapped the screen three times. "I've just sent you what it is that I require." He then saw Ironwood take out his own Scroll and look at the screen. When he saw the General slightly turn his head and furrow his brow, Thrawn spoke again. "Is something wrong?"

"Admiral, I can give you the Atlesian Knights," Ironwood promised. "These should reduce casualties. But this list says you want cadets, namely Cadet Schnee to accompany you."

"Yes, that is correct. I merely wish to provide the cadets an example of military operations."

"I see. But Cadet Schnee is our youngest cadet."

"I am aware. However, I am unaware of the potential you see in her. I'd like to see it for myself."

Ironwood hummed as he stoked his chin. "Alright, then. They'll be reporting to you in a half hour."

"Very good, sir." The screen changed from Ironwood to a blank page. Rather than turn off the screen, Thrawn pressed a button to make contact with the bridge. Specifically, another officer with a brown mustache. "Captain Pellaeon."

"Yes, Admiral?" the officer replied, ready for orders.

"I will be taking my leave from this ship in a half hour. You are to take temporary command until I return."

"Very good, sir."

As promised, Ironwood delivered the cadets and Atlesian Knights to Thrawn's personal airship. While she was waiting, Winter took a seat and listened to the other cadets talk. However, she decided not to join them for good reason.

"All droids," said one cadet, a girl with dark brown hair. "Kinda weird we don't have any soldiers with us."

"I guess we don't need them," said another cadet, a red haired boy hypothesized. "General Ironwood said he wanted to reduce human casualties with these things."

"There's that," said another girl, a blonde with blue eyes. "But we also have the supposed prodigy on board."

"Shh! She might hear you."

"I don't care. What's she gonna do? Tell her mom to stop selling me Dust?"

The first girl quietly laughed. "Still think she bought her way in?" she asked.

"There's a good chance," said the boy. "Everyone has their price."

"She's been hanging around with the General a lot," said the second girl. "Maybe her mom is involved, if you know what I mean." The comment made the first girl laugh again.

Winter had the hearing of a hawk, which allowed her to hear everything the cadets were saying. She was doing her best to pay no attention and keep her anger in check, and she was being successful. Since she had received similar comments back in Atlas, doubting her potential and singling her out for being a Schnee, Winter had grown used to it. Even though she proved her worth to Atlas Academy's professors, young Winter was having a hard time making friends among her peers. She had Penny and Cinder, but she chose not to disclose her personal feelings to them.

And now she had a chance to put her anger aside when a man in a white uniform stepped aboard. Everyone stood at attention, but they couldn't maintain a straight face when they saw the officer's blue skin.

"Good Gods," Winter thought to herself. "It's him."

"At ease," the officer said as he approached the door to the cockpit. Everyone sat down, but the cadets continued to stare at him. "Our mission will be conducted just outside the Vytal Festival fair grounds. Unless I say otherwise, this mission is strictly reconnaissance. Our exact time of arrival is five minutes, I advise you to prepare." The man stepped inside the cockpit of the airship as it took off.

"Oh, God," said the second girl. "And I thought this couldn't get any worse."

Winter couldn't help but overhear and now she was curious to see what her fellow cadet meant. "What was that?" she asked.

The girl turned to Winter and sighed. "I wasn't talking to you," she replied.

"Whoa, hang on," said the boy. "I wanna know what you're thinking too."

The girl relented. "First, we need to work with someone who's still a kid. And now we have to take orders from a Faunus."

"Hey, that's enough!" Winter demanded. Quickly realizing her outburst, she cleared her throat and remembered her manners. "For your sake, I'd advise you to be careful who you talk about."

"The Schnee's dead on," said the first girl. "That wasn't some run of the mill Faunus. That was Admiral Thrawn."

"Who?" the blonde girl asked.

"Admiral Thrawn," said Winter. "You know, the Defender of Argus? The Grand Admiral of Atlas?"

"She's right," said the boy. "He has a reputation back home. General Ironwood promoted him personally."

Despite the nicknames and the supposed reputation, the girl found herself unimpressed. "If he's so great, why isn't he teaching in Atlas?"

"He can do more good than staying at the Academy," said Winter. "His reputation and name are at the top of Atlas."

"Oh. Like your family?"

Winter furrowed her brow. "If you're in a mood to learn rather than talk, you'll see what's behind the surface."

The girl stood up. "Are you saying I'm dumb?"

Before anything could get out of hand, the other cadets stood up and pushed the girls back.

"Hey, hey, cool your jets!" said the first girl.

"We're supposed to be Atlas Academy cadets," said the boy. "Arguing over who can do what isn't acting like proper cadets."

The two girls silently sat back down, not saying a word until the ship landed. Everyone exited the ship and began to survey the area. Winter first noted how close they were to the fair grounds, causing a sense of unease.

"Stop."

Everyone stopped walking and looked out into the distance, following Admiral Thrawn's gaze. About twenty feet away was a vast tree line, and there were two Grimm emerging from the woods.

"Disappear," Thrawn ordered as he moved to cover. The cadets and the Knights followed his order and did nothing else. Thrawn was the only one moving, who had just turned to one Knight. "Emerge just above this cover. Begin recording." The droid obeyed and moved its head just above the wooden stand it was hiding behind.

"Begin recording?" Winter wondered. Her curiosity and confusion about the mission were about to emerge, but then she shut them out. One thing she learned as a cadet was to obey orders rather than waste time understanding them. She could understand orders when she would be the one giving them.

"Cadets, hold this position," the Admiral commanded as he began to walk back to his ship. "Cadet Schnee. Follow me."

Winter lost her composure at the order. She looked back to her fellow cadets, who had an equal amount of surprise. But the arrogant girl simply rolled her eyes and looked back to the Grimm. Winter quickly looked back to Admiral Thrawn and ran up to him.

"Ah, there you are," he said calmly.

"Yes, sir," Winter said as she followed him back to the ship. Deciding that he may need protection, she began to draw her sword.

"You won't be needing that," the Admiral said as he pointed to the small pistol he had on his side. "And it is highly unorthodox for a future officer to be at the ready in the presence of their superior."

Winter quickly moved her hands behind her back. "Apologies, sir."

"I didn't say it was an error. I simply said it was unorthodox. However, a sense of ease can hide your capabilities. Make your allies believe there is more to you than a simple ready for battle."

"...Understood."

The Admiral and young cadet had finally approached the ship. The pilot turned around and watched his superior officer approach. "Put me through to the second squadron," he ordered. The pilot pressed two buttons on his control panel and handed a radio speaker to Thrawn. "Rukh, are you in position?"

"Yes," a low voice replied on the other end.

"And the Knights?"

"Where I told them to be."

"Good. Maintain position. And don't let your target see you." Thrawn handed the radio back to the pilot and looked back to Winter.

"Permission to speak freely, sir?" she asked calmly.

"Granted," Thrawn replied. "You wish to understand our mission, do you not?"

"I do. From the sound of it, there are other teams like us, out here."

"Correct."

"And they share the same target as us. The Grimm."

"Correct."

"And we're... watching them? Why can't we eliminate them while they're here? Before they can hurt any-"

"Because I know these Grimm, I've studied them." Thrawn pulled out his Scroll and showed Winter live footage of the Beowolves they were watching earlier. "Already, they are defying convention and attempting something unexpected." He showed the footage to Winter, who was watching a Beowolf rip and tear a lone deer that had come across its path.

"U-Um..."

Winter was having a hard time deciphering what it was that the Admiral was seeing. She knew that the Creatures of Grimm would destroy anything they pleased, her Grimm Studies classes have proven that. So to watch a Grimm conduct it's methods of destruction was nothing unordinary.

"Your classes in Grimm Studies have gone well, I imagine?" Thrawn asked calmly.

Winter looked back at the Admiral. "Um, yes," she replied. "Yes, sir. They have."

"I trust they have taught you that the Grimm are more than willing to attack anyone and anything they please."

"Yes, sir. That's why we have Huntsmen and Huntresses. To protect those who cannot protect themselves."

"Would you say that protection would apply to a common deer?"

Each question raised more confusion from Winter, who kept failing to see the Admiral's point. "...Sir?"

Thrawn put away his Scroll. "In my experience, I have seen Grimm attack Huntsmen, Huntresses, and average citizens simply to destroy. But I recently learned that attacking an average wild animal is rare. It does not convey fear like we do, or get angry easier. So what negativity is there to convey?"

"...None?" Winter guessed.

"Precisely. So why kill a deer? Something that should have displayed no negativity whatsoever, besides the pain it is currently suffering?"

"Um... hunger?"

"Not quite. If that Grimm kills anything that gets in its way, and refuses to advance, then there is something in that tree line worth protecting. And I, for one, would like to find out what it is." Thrawn began to walk back towards the tree line. But when he realized that he was walking alone, he turned back to see Winter standing in the airship. "Are you coming, Cadet Schnee?"

"...Permission to remain aboard, sir?" she replied.

Thrawn narrowed his eyes and moved back to the ship. "For what reason?"

"To prevent making any more mistakes that may jeopardize this mission."

Thrawn hummed at the idea. "Is that so? And what exactly were the previous mistakes?"

Winter, having lost her initial confidence after succumbing to the comments of her peers and failing to see what was right in front of her, felt that she had nothing else to contribute to the mission. She didn't even feel that she had the right to speak her mind to the Admiral.

"Speak freely, Winter. I insist."

The sound of her first name was rare, especially from a high ranking officer. So she decided to comply with the request.

"You were able to find a surprising amount of mistakes I made in only two minutes," she said. "My form, my ability to understand the Grimm, and my insistence on ignoring the bigger picture. I think I can learn from these mistakes and try again, but not at the risk of jeopardizing the mission." She looked down at her seat and began to sit down.

Thrawn finally stepped inside the ship. "If I may be blunt, Winter... I only see one mistake when I look at you," he said.

Winter quickly looked back at the officer. "Sir?"

"Don't misunderstand, you have made multiple errors. But do you know what the difference between an error and a mistake?"

"Aren't they... both the same?"

"One would think. But you see... anyone can make an error. But that error doesn't become a mistake until you refuse to correct it." Thrawn pulled out his Scroll once more. "Let me show you one of the biggest mistakes I noticed today." He quickly pressed the screen and heard a voice ring out.

"First, we need to work with someone who's still a kid. And now we have to take orders from a Faunus."

Thrawn slid his finger across the screen and played another piece of audio.

"If he's so great, why isn't he teaching in Atlas?"

Winter widened her eyes. "That was earlier today!" she said. "You could-"

"Yes," the Admiral confirmed. "Because your fellow cadet refused to correct her mistake, her insubordination will be noted. Your loyalty, on the other hand, will also be noted." Thrawn began to walk outside. "Unless, of course, you do not wish to correct your error."

Winter quickly walked outside while Thrawn grinned. "Thank you, sir," she said.

"Thank yourself. For fixing an error you made. And giving me the chance to see an error of my own."

"Sir?"

"I can understand your earlier behavior. Trying to live up to high expectations for people much older than you are. I hoped to see what it is Ironwood sees in you, to learn why you were accepted into Atlas Academy two years early. But perhaps a simple reconnaissance mission is not the right mission."

"Oh... I see." Winter suddenly got an idea. "If you wish to see, I'd be happy... I mean, honored, to work with you again." Winter quickly cleared her throat and stopped smiling. "Um, sir."

Thrawn looked back at the cadet. "It would be my-"

*BANG*

*BANG*

*BANG*

Winter and Thrawn looked back in the direction of the Grimm. "What in-?" Thrawn couldn't finish his sentence, his blood was boiling at the sound of gunfire. He and Winter quickly ran back to the cadets and droids, who were firing at more Grimm than before. "What is the meaning of this?"

The boy quickly looked back at the Admiral. "Sir, more Grimm are coming this way!" he observed.

"I can see that, cadet. How did this happen?" He quickly observed that one of the cadets was missing.

"Cadet Aero fired on a Grimm when it began to leave the tree line! She ran off after the second one, and we haven't heard from her since! And then these things started coming!"

Thrawn quickly realized that the cadet had just jeopardized the entire mission. Nevertheless, he began firing on the incoming Beowolves with his sidearm. Winter realized the long distance between her and the Grimm made her swords impractical.

But she was able to think of a plan to use them. The first step was to plunge it into the ground. She then concentrated on her Semblance, which led to a white glyph being created on the ground. Multiple white shapes began to fly out of the ground and fly towards the Beowolves. The shapes revealed themselves to be small Nevermores, all completely under Winter's control and currently preventing the other Beowolves from charging.

Both of the remaining cadets and Thrawn turned to see Winter with her sword on the ground. "Shoot them!" she ordered as she felt her Semblance take up her Aura. The ability she had created to summon that many Grimm was one that would take up more Aura than her regular glyphs. Thrawn understood and fired on the remaining Beowolves, followed by the other cadets and droids.

Within half a minute, all the Beowolves, including an Alpha, had been turned to dust. Winter's Aura broke from using her Summoning, which led her to realize that she would need more training with that ability.

"Search the forest," Thrawn ordered. He and his company complied and began to enter the trees, careful to look out for any more Grimm. Within another minute, they found Cadet Aero, who was trying to fight off one last Beowolf. Thrawn quickly shot it and looked at the surrounding area, specifically the cave in front of him. "A den. A place to stay and wait until the right moment to attack." He turned to the cadet on the ground. "I suppose I must thank you. Your recklessness has actually proven useful. Although I wouldn't recommend disobeying orders once again."

"Don't mention it," the blonde grumbled as she had trouble standing up.

"Take her back to my ship." Thrawn watched as the two cadets helped their friend up, leaving him alone with Winter and the droids. "Record the area, leave nothing unexamined." Winter was about to join the droids, but was stopped by Thrawn. "I will not only make note of your attack, Cadet Schnee. I will applaud you for it."

"Thank you, sir," Winter said in surprise. "But I need to work on my strength for my Summoning."

"Make sure you do. The attack and your Semblance are quite the pieces of art. I would hate to see less of it. And even less of its potential."

Winter was beyond happy to hear that. She promised herself that she would work harder than ever, and not just in her combat. She remembered what Penny said about her being a Specialist, and the Admiral's interest had given her more than enough motivation to keep working.

And it even gave her a reason to call Cinder once she was relieved from Admiral Thrawn.

"Winter, that's great news! An Admiral said that?"

"Not just any Admiral. Grand Admiral Thrawn himself. Wait, did I just say that out loud?"

Cinder laughed into the Scroll she was speaking on. "Come on, it's not big deal," she said. "It's just us talking. No Generals, no other cadets. Besides, you have a right to be excited. I'm proud of you."

"Thank you," said Winter. "I think I should be thanking you for more than that, though."

"Why's that?"

"You kept telling me the people who don't like me at my best don't deserve me at my best. Admiral Thrawn's one of the people who wants me at my best."

"Well, I think he's gonna get it pretty soon. You ready for the tournament?"

"I think so. I'm still working on my Semblance, mainly my Summoning. How about you?"

"I don't mean to brag, but Team CMFF is ready for anything. The training we did outside of class finally whipped these girls into shape."

"Oh, so you've finally taught them discipline?"

"I can't say too much, but you'll see in the tournament. How about Penny?"

"She keeps telling me she's 'combat ready.' Speaking of which, she also told me she wants to talk to you. I think she wants one last gathering before we all fight each other."

"Well, that sounds great. But I can't meet right now."

"Oh, I'm sorry. Are you still training?"

"No, I'm actually-" Cinder gasped when she made a quick realization. "Oh, my gosh! I didn't even tell you!"

"Tell me what?" Winter asked.

"My teammates helped me find my mother! We're going to meet her right now!"

"They did? That's... wonderful news! Congratulations, Cinder."

"Thanks. We're actually in a cab right now, on our way to meet her now." Cinder looked out the window. "Actually, I think we're here. I'll call you back, we'll talk about meeting up later."

"Good luck, Cinder. Goodbye."

"Bye."

Cinder ended the call on her Scroll and stepped out of the taxi she just took with the rest of Team CMFF. She then walked over to the driver and handed him two pieces of Lien. "Thank you," she said as the driver took the Lien. The car drove away, leaving Team CMFF to look at a small apartment complex.

"35 Evergreen Avenue," said Merri, who was looking at her own Scroll. "Yep, this is the place, alright."

"And it looks like Ms. Collins lives in apartment 2A," said Fauna. She looked over to Cinder, who was staring at the building. "You okay?"

"I'm fine," Cinder assured her friend. "I just can't believe it's happening. I'm going to meet my mother."

"I'm pretty excited too," said Flora. "I wanna see what happens."

"Me too," said Merri. "So, uh... have you decided what you're gonna say to her?"

Cinder looked back to Merri. "Well, I... Um..." Her mind was drawing a blank at the idea, given that her mind was racing with over a hundred possibilities. She had so many things she wanted to talk about that it was hard to find out where to begin.

"Looks like you need a little time," said Flora. "Hey, how about this? Ms. Collins might be taken by surprise with all this. Why don't we go in ahead of you and warm her up for you? Give both of you some time to be ready."

"At long last, you have a good idea," said Fauna, which earned her a shove from her sister.

"Better late than never," said Merri, who shared Fauna's sentiments. "How about it, Cinder? Want us to go first?"

"If... If you don't mind," Cinder shyly replied. "I'm sorry, I just need to figure out what to say."

"Yeah, sure. Just text us whenever you're ready."

The sisters took the first steps to the apartment complex and let themselves in, leaving Cinder alone. She suddenly began to pace the sidewalk up and down as she recited her plan. Deciding to introduce herself with a friendly handshake, Cinder would describe her time leading up to this moment. However, not wanting to hurt any feelings, she decided to leave out the part about being a slave in Atlas. And she wouldn't say a word about being the Fall Maiden, just that she was currently a student at Beacon Academy.

Not wanting to waste any more time, Cinder decided that her introduction and description of her time at Beacon would be enough. Despite her better judgement, she made the choice to see where the rest of the conversation would go, to see what her mother was like. So after taking a deep breath, she walked towards the building and texted Merri that she was ready.

"Ms. Collins is ready too. See you inside."

Cinder smiled at the text and walked upstairs. After arriving on the second floor, Cinder found herself looking at the wooden door that stood between her and her mother. Taking one last breath, Cinder knocked on the door three times.

"It's open," Merri called out.

Cinder slowly opened the door to see her friends sitting in the living room of the apartment. And in one chair was a blonde woman, who looked just like the picture the Blair sisters found for Cinder. Both the woman and Cinder gasped when they laid eyes on each other.

"My word," the woman said. "You look just like your father." Before Cinder could say anything, the woman stood up and gave Cinder a hug. When her shock died down, Cinder smiled and hugged her back, feeling her anxiety fade away like dust in the wind.

"We'll give you two some time," Merri said as she led her sisters out of the apartment.

Cinder let go of the woman and the two made eye contact. "It's... nice to meet you," she said with a smile.

"I would say the same, but..." Sandie slightly laughed. "I think I've already done that, Odette."

Cinder stopped smiling. "Odette?"

"Why, yes. That's your name."

Cinder's eyes widened as a soft gasp escaped her mouth. "I have a name," she thought to herself. "I have a name. I have a name. I have a name."

Sandie however, didn't share her daughter's joy. "Wait. Has everyone called you something else?" she asked.

Cinder refocused on Sandie and answered. "Oh... yes. As long as I could remember, everyone called me 'Cinder.'"

"Cinder. Cinder." Sandie smiled. "That's a lovely name." She quickly looked back to the chair she was sitting in. "Please, sit down."

Cinder obeyed and observed the rest of the living room. "You have a lovely home."

"Thank you." Sandie finally sat down. "I can imagine you have questions, about us. Please, don't hesitate to ask."

"Right back at you," Cinder said with a laugh. "Do you want to-?"

"You can ask first. I don't mind."

Cinder took another deep breath. "If you insist. My first question was actually answered when you called me by name. It's a lovely name, really."

"So is 'Cinder.' It really fits with your hair and eyes."

Cinder giggled. "Thank you. Well, my other question is... I really want to know why I was put up for adoption."

"Oh. I see." Sandie put down her cup of tea. "That's... a long story." She then cleared her throat. "When your father found out I was pregnant with you, we decided to buy a house in the city of Mistral. You were going to be the start of our family. The house we bought was perfect. A backyard, three bedrooms... I wish you could have seen it."

"That... sounds wonderful," said Cinder. "So... what happened?"

"We were still moving into the house in Mistral. One day, he took an airship to get more of our things. That ship... was shot down. Nobody survived." As she finished the story, the older woman began to cry.

Cinder felt an enormous amount of guilt when she heard the story. Her heart ached at the idea of not being given the chance to meet her father, but she felt even more sorry for the woman who knew him longer than she did. "You can stop if you want," she said.

"No, no," Sandie replied. "You deserve to know the whole truth."

While she appreciated the sentiment, Cinder could tell her mother would have a hard time letting out her pain. So she decided to help Sandie. "Let me guess; the payments for living that high in Mistral were expensive. Too expensive to deal with while raising a baby."

Sandie nodded. "Eric was... always the breadwinner between us," she said. "I made some money at part-time jobs, but it could never be enough. And I was planning to go into social work, where the salary would be perfect for raising you. But in the meantime, I was forced to move into lower Mistral." Sandie placed a hand on Cinder's. "You have to know, taking you to that orphanage was only temporary. I visited you every weekend, made the administrators promise to keep you until I had enough money to get out of lower Mistral and take you back with me."

"But things changed," Cinder said after she nodded in understanding. "That fire, the one that killed most of the children. You thought I was one of them."

"Either that or you were sent away. I searched every orphanage I could, even ones in other Kingdoms. But I failed. I failed, and I am so sorry."

"That doesn't matter." Cinder hugged Sandie once more. "We're together now. Let's focus on that."

"I will." Sandie hugged Cinder back and then wiped away her tears. "Well... that was a thing." She and Cinder laughed for a moment before she asked another question. "Do you... have any other questions for me?"

"Just one," Cinder replied. "Did you say my father.. Eric... was shot down?"

"I did. Responding Huntsmen and Huntresses came to the scene, and they couldn't find any signs of Grimm."

"How do they know it was shot down? That it wasn't an accident?"

Sandie stood up. "I asked the same questions you did. But a Huntsman found something there, something that I kept." She moved over to a closet close to the bedroom. Opening it led to the woman kneeling down and looking at the bottom. "Yes, this is it."

Cinder stood up and walked over to the closet. "What is it?" she asked.

Sandie turned around and showed Cinder what she was holding in her hands. She couldn't see it, but the object caused Cinder to stop breathing. She didn't blink, she didn't say anything, it was as if her body had turned into a statue. This was because the object had just caused Cinder's world to come crashing down on her. What was once happiness and comfort had just turned to chaos.

Her mother was holding a Mandalorian helmet in her hands.

TheCourtofTalons · Oct 31, 2023

Chapter 36: The Festival

After many weeks of planning and preparing, the Vytal Festival had finally commenced in Vale. Citizens from all around the world had arrived from air and sea to partake in the parades, dances, and the rest of the events. All which celebrated the end of Remnant's Great War and the beginning of a peace that had lasted for nearly eighty years.

While many others chose not to make the trip to Vale, they made sure to enjoy the celebration through their TV screens. One particular event was going to be watched by many families, but one such family was arguably more excited than the rest. And now they were just about ready to proudly watch a family member be a part of this event.

"Hurry up, Whitley!" a young girl shouted as she ran through the large hall she found herself in. "We're going to miss the first fight!"

"We really shouldn't be running, Weiss," a younger boy replied to his sister as he slowly but surely followed her lead. "Mother and Klein wouldn't be happy to find me sweating like this." He looked down at his formal dress clothes. "This shirt is brand new."

Weiss was annoyed by her brother's laziness and apparent lack of interest in seeing what she wanted to see. The room her family was to be gathered in was at the end of the hall, and she could hear what sounded like someone talking on a TV. Seeing that she was already late, Weiss had an idea to get herself and her brother to the room.

She quickly ran back to him and grabbed his hand before putting her other hand on the ground. A white Glyph appeared at their feet. "Hang on, Whitley!" she ordered.

Unfortunately, her brother knew exactly what was going to happen. "Wait, no, not agAIN!" he cried as he felt himself fly towards the end of the hall with his sister. Once they stopped flying from the boost the Glyph gave, Whitley let go and tried to make the room stop spinning.

"Weiss," a woman's voice said as she walked up to the children. "What have I told you about using your Semblance in the house?" She looked at Whitley and picked him up. "You know your brother's not used to this sort of thing."

"Sorry, Mother," Weiss sincerely apologized. "I just didn't want to miss Winter's fight."

Willow Schnee looked at her daughter and smiled. "Well, don't worry; you didn't." She walked over to a large couch and put Whitley down before inviting Weiss to sit with her. "The first fight started, but it's not Winter's team. It's Cinder's."

"Cinder?!" Weiss quickly ran over to the TV and sat as close to it as possible, where she saw two teams fighting in an arena of debris and a forest. "Teach those hoodlums respect, Cinder!"

Willow laughed as she picked up her daughter and moved her to the couch so her eyes wouldn't hurt. Just as she did, two men appeared on the screen. Willow recognized them as Peter Port and Bartholomew Oobleck.

"For those of you just now joining us, welcome to the Vytal Festival Tournament, broadcast live from the Amity Colosseum!" said Professor Port, who waved his arm to gesture at the event.

"How exciting!" Willow said as she continued to watch the screen. While her daughter shared her excitement, Whitley wasn't very interested. In fact, he was confused as to how come this event was so long and how it actually went.

"If this is your first time watching, allow us to break down the rules," Port said.

Doctor Oobleck spoke right after him, much faster than his colleague. "The tournament is divided into three distinctive rounds; teams, doubles, and singles. Age and school year are irrelevant! In this tournament, your only attribute being tested... is skill."

"Correct!" Port confirmed as a hologram popped up to display this idea. "The winners of this battle will elect two of their members to represent them in the doubles round, followed by the winners of that round choosing one member to advance once again. The remaining combatants will then fight their way through the final bracket in the hope of achieving victory for their Kingdom!"

"And yes, Peter, these certainly are some spectacular spectacles on which to spectate on!" said Oobleck. "I don't think anyone tuning in around the world is going to disagree with me on that!"

"No, sir!" Weiss said.

"Ahh, and why would they?" Port rhetorically asked. "Now, let's get back to the match between Team CMFF of Beacon and Team VILT of Haven!"

The electronic screen changed to show the mentioned teams fighting each other across the arena. Cinder was engaged in a sword duel with the team leader, Violet Evergreen. Merri was facing against Iris Canary, a sharpshooter with twin pistols. Flora was working to gain the upper hand against Leon Shell in hand-to-hand, and Fauna was trying to avoid every swing from a double-bladed sword belonging to Taylor Brown.

The sound of footsteps just outside the doorframe caught the attention of the Schnee Family, where they saw a short man with a brown mustache and brown eyes carrying a tray of food and a teapot.

"Did I miss anything?" the man asked as he stepped inside.

"The first fight just started, Klein," Willow replied.

The man's eyes suddenly changed from brown to red. "Rats!" he said in a deeper voice. "I knew I should have started earlier!"

"Don't worry, Klein," Weiss said to the family butler. "Winter's not fighting yet, it's Cinder's team."

Klein's eyes changed once more, this time to a soft yellow. "Ah, wonderful!" He then prepared to serve the family. "Your tea, Mrs. Schnee." He poured a hot liquid from the teapot into a cup.

"Thank you, Klein."

"And Weiss' morning coffee."

The little girl smiled. "Thank you, Klein."

"And a plate of crepes for Master Whitley."

The young boy smiled as well. "My favorite," he said. "Thank you, Klein."

The butler smiled as he turned to the TV and watched with the family. There, they saw all four pairs of combatants fighting each other. Even though Cinder had one more sword than Violet, the combatants were equally matched. All of their attacks were either blocked or missed. Violet was even able to block Midnight with her arms, which had metal armor covering them. Neither of them had used up much Aura.

Merri had used up a significant amount of Aura, given that she couldn't avoid every bullet Iris shot at her. However, her attempts allowed her to see that her enemy kept her ammo at her waist. This allowed her to make a plan, but she needed her sisters' help first.

While Fauna was blocking and moving Taylor's sword with her sickle, Flora was able to do well against her opponent. Her strategy was just like the one the Mandalorian had taught her: by breaking the man instead of breaking his defense. And the Schnees could hear it from their TV.

"Wow, was that it?!" Flora yelled after being hit. "I've seen better swings on playgrounds!"

Leon angrily sent more swings at Flora. While some hit and others missed, Flora maintained her composure and sent insult after insult at Leon. "Shut up!" the boy cried as he sent a fist to her face. But Flora was able to avoid it and use her sickle to cut his chest and back. She then used it to hook his leg and make him trip, where she proceeded to kick him and jump on his stomach.

While the boy was recovering, Flora ran close to Merri. "Hey, sis!" she cried. "Catch!" She then threw her sickle to her sister, who caught it right as she dodged one more bullet. Merri then connected the two weapons at their hilts to throw them at Iris. The girl expected the throw to be at her head, but the sickles went to her side and cut her belt. In turn, her holsters and ammo fell down, which gave Merri a chance to charge at her and use the hand-to-hand she learned from class to help her.

Cinder had decided to change her strategy to fight Violet, even though it would cost her some Aura. Quickly merging Midnight into a bow, she used her free hand to catch the girl's blade. She then applied her Aura to enhance her grip and activated her Semblance to make the blade melt. Violet saw what was happening and tried to kick Cinder's gut, but her Aura blocked out the pain.

"Oh, and Mr. Shell has been eliminated!" Port's voice called out.

The TV showed a replay of Flora knocking out Leon with a kick to his throat, causing a massive drop in Aura. When Cinder noticed this, Violet's blade had broken and left her with what could be compared to a knife. As she stared at the blade, Cinder fired an arrow at Taylor to stop her from fighting Fauna.

"Fauna needs the Flying Wing!" Cinder called out to her teammates. Merri nodded as she threw the two sickles to her sister while she and Flora performed a tag-team attack on Iris, who had begun to use the blunt ends of her guns as weapons.

Fauna barely managed to catch the sickles before they flew into the trees behind her, but this left her open to a slice to the chest from Taylor.

"It appears Fauna's Aura is dangerously close to the red!" Oobleck said through his microphone. "One more hit, and Team CMFF will be down one member!"

Fauna knew that she would need to make her next attack count when she fell on the ground. So when Taylor sent her sword towards her opponent's chest, Fauna used the two combined sickles to move the blade and the third one to swipe at Taylor's throat.

"Oh-ho!" Port exclaimed. "I don't think Ms. Brown was expecting that!"

Even though she was down some Aura, Taylor wasn't down for the count. She had managed to retrieve the blade and swung it at Fauna, but the Flying Wing caught it and spun, taking the sword out of the young girl's grasp. She then fell victim to the sickles that struck her when Fauna jumped back and threw the Flying Wing.

"And Taylor Brown has been eliminated!"

As Fauna smiled in pride of her victory, she didn't notice that Iris had recovered one magazine for her pistol and fired it at her back.

"Fauna Blair has been eliminated!" Oobleck said.

Cinder wished she could have helped Fauna as well as her other teammates, but Violet was proving herself to be a stubborn warrior. She had managed to recover the piece of the sword that had broken and was still using the shorter end to fight her opponent. Cinder chose to use both her swords, given it was hard for Violet to block the second blade.

Merri and Flora were racing to recover the Flying Wing while avoiding the bullets Iris was firing at them. Flora's Aura was approaching closer and closer into the red zone, so she pushed her sister ahead and let herself be open to the remaining ammunition.

"Flora Blair has been eliminated!" Oobleck cried out.

"This is for you, Flora!" Merri cried out as she threw each sickle at Iris. While the girl avoided the first one, Merri threw the second sickle where Iris landed. Once Iris was hit, Merri sent the last one her way, causing her Aura to break.

"Iris Brown has been eliminated!" Oobleck said.

Cinder realized that she could end the match at the present moment. Dropping her swords, she grabbed both of Violet's wrists, which still had the metal on them. Activating her Semblance once more, Cinder burned the metal and watched as Violet felt her skin burning. To finish her off, and not wanting to burn her more, Cinder sent a head-butt to Violet's forehead and watched her fall to the ground.

"And that's the match!" Port called out. "Team CMFF is victorious!"

"Yay!" Weiss yelled as she clapped. "They won!"

"My word," Klein said as he stared at the screen.

"Oh, my," said Willow. "That was a close one for all of them."

"Well, that was... interesting," said Whitley, who had become mildly entertained after watching the fight.

"Come on, Whitley," his sister said. "Weren't you even a little excited?"

"Not really. Aren't people supposed to fight the Grimm instead of each other?"

Willow giggled as she looked at her son. "You'll understand when you're older, Whitley." She looked at the screen and saw that the next match would begin in twenty minutes. "Okay. Who needs a bathroom break?"

"Drink up, girls!"

Cinder and the Blair sisters all raised the paper cups of water they got after the fight and downed them in a single gulp. In order to properly celebrate their victory over Team VILT, they immediately decided to take an airship to the fairgrounds below Amity. Their plan was to get something to eat, maybe participate in some of the games that were set up, and then head back to the Colosseum to watch another fight. It seemed that fighting was the only thing on their minds when they were talking.

"Man, I thought that girl would never run out of ammo!" said Merri, who looked over her weapon. "I should see if there's a blacksmith at the fairgrounds."

"You think you had it tough?" Fauna asked her sister. "That bimbo with the double-bladed sword cut some of my hair!" She was using her Scroll as a mirror to see that some of her hair was indeed missing. "This is so embarrassing! I hope that black eye I gave her is throbbing right now."

"Come on, that's a good look!" Flora encouraged her sister. "But speaking of looks, I swear that guy was totally checking me out before the fight started. You think he'll forgive me for toying with him like that?" A sly smile formed on her lips. "I bet I could make it up to him."

"I wouldn't count on it," Cinder replied with a smile. "Their leader was playing to win when she was fighting me. Not that I mind, it's been a while since I had a sword fight like that." Cinder stopped smiling. "Something tells me they don't like the idea of losing the first round."

"Yeah, you're probably right. Oh, well. Plenty of fish in the sea."

"Speaking of fish, you think there's seafood at the fairgrounds?"

"Eh, pass. Fish meat isn't real meat."

"Definitely not."

"Man, it's always meat with you girls!" Cinder rolled her eyes. "I don't think I'll ever understand your obsession with it."

"No, you won't," Merri agreed. "But if you need a change of pace, I think I heard about a noodle place somewhere."

"Sounds good. Let's go."

As soon as the airship landed, Team CMFF walked to the fairgrounds. On their way, they passed by Beacon students who weren't participating in the tournament as well as citizens who watched their fight. All of them congratulated the Huntress students as they looked for the restaurant Merri had mentioned.

*BUZZ*

*BUZZ*

Cinder's Scroll began to vibrate in the pocket of her jeans. Quickly pulling it out, she saw the screen had one word on it.

DAD

Rather than answer the call, Cinder let out a saddened sigh and declined it.

Three nights ago

For some reason, the simple act of opening her eyes was hard for Cinder. While doing so, she felt that her eyelids were extremely heavy, as if someone was pressing against them as tightly as they could. It took her three tries to finally get them open, and she found a surprise for her. Not a complete surprise, but enough for her to wonder what was going on.

She was sitting in between the rest of Team CMFF.

"Oh, hey!" Flora said with excitement as she playfully nudged her leader's arm. "Finally, you're awake!"

"Hi, Cinder," said Merri. "How's it going?"

"...Huh?" Cinder asked, still feeling incredibly tired. "Where are we?"

"In an airship," Fauna explained. "We should be back at Beacon soon."

"Beacon? Why are we going there?"

"Well, look outside."

Cinder obeyed and was in for another surprise; it was dark outside. Not twilight or sunset, but dark enough for it to be called the middle of the night. "Whoa," she said. "How did it get so late?" She remembered it being the afternoon when she last looked out a window.

"Well, what do you expect?" Merri asked with a small laugh.

Cinder looked back to her friend. "What do you mean?"

"That's what happens when time flies by, Cinder. Heck, you spent hours talking to your mom in Vale."

"...I did? Really?"

"Uh-huh. How else can you explain the night?"

"..."

Cinder looked outside one more time before thinking back on her day. She remembered her team taking her to her mother, and the two of them talking about various things; but she had no idea that it took so long. Cinder simply assumed that she lost track of time in her excitement, as well as her mixed feelings.

"...Huh," she said as she rubbed her eyes. "Guess I lost track of time. And maybe her singing put me to sleep."

"Singing?" Fauna asked.

"Oh, yeah." Cinder turned to Fauna. "We were getting to know each other for a while. Last thing I remember was her telling me she used to sing."

"Cool!" Flora exclaimed. "Was she good?"

Cinder looked back to Flora. "Yeah, she really was. I think she was more into opera, since that was what she was singing."

"That's nice," said Merri. "How'd everything else go?"

"Well, I got some questions answered," Cinder explained. "Found out my name, found out where I was from, and I found out who my fa-" Cinder suddenly stopped talking when she remembered what Ms. Collins had said about her father. More explicitly, she remembered the Mandalorian helmet that was recovered from a deadly scene.

"Hello in there!" said Flora, who waved her hand in front of Cinder's eyes to get her attention. When Cinder blinked and looked back to Flora, she heard her teammate speak again. "What's going on?"

"Sorry, sorry." Cinder looked at each of her teammates, who had already picked up the signs that something was bothering her. She wasn't sure if she wanted to talk about it, since the young girl couldn't make heads or tails out of the situation herself. Nevertheless, the cat seemed to be out of the bag for her. And she would need to practice her poker face so she couldn't talk to Djarin about it. "Hey... can you all keep a secret?" Cinder asked.

Merri and Fauna nodded while Flora tapped her forehead, chest, and shoulders. "Father, Son, and Team CMFF," she jokingly said. When she received a pull of her hair from Merri, she quickly became serious. "I mean, we can keep a secret."

Cinder took a deep breath. "Okay. So, uh... I found out a lot about both my parents. Specifically, my father."

"Your father?" Merri asked. "Hold on. Did he split on your mom when he found out she was pregnant with you?"

"Ugh," Fauna groaned. "Those people suck. You know, our dad did something like that to Mother."

"I hate that guy," said Flora.

"No, it wasn't like that," Cinder said to make the girls remember the situation at hand. "He... died. Well, he was killed when his airship crashed."

"...Oh," Merri whispered. "S-Sorry to hear that."

Cinder nodded. "It gets worse. His ship was destroyed on purpose."

"Oh, so it was the Grimm," Fauna assumed.

Cinder shook her head this time. "It gets worse. It wasn't something. It was someone, or a group of people."

"A group?" Flora asked. "Like bandits? I heard there were a lot of them in Mistral, if that's where he was."

Cinder shook her head once again. "Worse." She then took out her Beskar necklace and stared at the animal. "Ms. Collins found something when she tried to find her husband at the scene. Something the authorities wasn't able to find. It was a helmet. A Mandalorian helmet."

The Blair sisters gasped at the revelation. They knew Cinder's secret would be big, but this was certainly something nobody expected to hear.

"Mandalorians... killed your father?" Flora asked, forsaking any kind of tact in her search for the truth.

Cinder nodded. "All this time... after everything I did... I had no idea," she sadly confessed. "When I met her, I wanted to tell her everything. How I was adopted, how I became a great fighter, and how I wore this necklace with pride." Tears began to fall down her face. "But I had to hide all of this. And now... I've never been more scared of wearing this than I am now."

The girls knew that being a part of a Huntress team meant having certain responsibilities. One of them was seeing through one or more of their teammates through thick and thin, to help them where they needed it more than anything.

But for the life of them, they had no idea what to say to Cinder. So instead of offering any semblance of assistance, they decided to watch her let out all of her fear and sadness. Aside from Cinder's soft weeps, Team CMFF was silent for the rest of the trip.

They didn't say a word.

Present-day

Cinder was still unsure what to say to her father, how to tell him everything. And now she was running out of excuses. Nevertheless, she was able to send a quick text to him.

"Celebrating with the girls. Don't want to leave them right now."

The Mandalorian responded right away.

"I just wanted to say good job with the fight."

Cinder smiled and responded.

"Thank you."

When Cinder looked away from her Scroll, she saw the Blair sisters sitting at one of the festival stands. An old man with balding gray hair was quickly fixing them bowls of hot noodles, large enough to make eating later almost impossible.

Cinder quickly joined her team and pulled out her wallet to pay the chef. "Thank you," she said with a smile as she handed him four pieces of Lien. The old man smiled and nodded as he took the money and left the girls to their own devices.

"Hold up, girls!" Fauna ordered as she reached into her pocket. She then pulled out a small plastic bag of leftover meat and put some of it onto her noodles. Flora took the bag and added meat to her own noodles.

"You've been carrying that in your pocket this whole time?" Cinder asked.

"That's just stupid," said Merri. "Not that I'm complaining or anything." She took the bag and applied Flora's cooked meat onto her own noodles before handing it to Cinder.

"Hm, no thanks."

Merri took the bag and applied the finishing meat to her noodles. Before she ate, she noticed Fauna patting herself down, as if she was looking for something. "You okay, sis?" Merri asked.

"I'm so stupid," the girl in green responded. "I remembered the meat, but I think I forgot my wallet."

"No need for that." Merri pointed to Cinder. "Our noble leader took care of the bill."

"Oh. Thanks, Cinder." She then began to eat her food, savoring each bite like her sisters did.

"Well, this seems like a proper reward."

Team CMFF looked to the right, where they saw a female Atlesian student, followed by another girl wearing a big smile and a large sun hat over her red hair.

"Winter! Penny!" Cinder addressed her friends with a smile.

"A pleasure to see you, Cinder," said Winter, who formed a small smile.

Before Cinder could say anything else, Merri stood up from her seat to have a better look at Cinder's friends. "Oh, this is the famous Winter!" she said as she examined the Atlesian. "Our leader's told us a lot about you."

"I see. In order to prepare for in the tournament, I presume?"

"More or less. Hope you were paying attention to the fight."

"We were." Winter gestured to Penny. "My friend and I counted a total thirteen missed strikes."

Flora and Fauna responded the same way. "Oh, snap!"

Cinder stood in between her friends as she laughed. "Alright, settle down," she requested. "Let's save that spirit for the tournament."

"Come on, Cinder," Merri said. "Nothing wrong with a little friendly competition."

"Agreed," said Winter. "And there's nothing wrong with getting to know your potential opponent." Winter cleared her throat. "As you know, I'm Winter Schnee. This is Penny Polendina."

"Salutations!" Penny exclaimed with a wave.

"Merri Blair," the girl in blue introduced herself. "These are my sisters Flora and Fauna. Not very intimidating, I know."

"Hey!" both sisters replied.

"Pleasure to meet you," said Winter. "I hope you don't mind if we don't join you. It seems unwise to eat something this big before a fight. We just wanted to congratulate you all for advancing."

Penny turned to Cinder. "And to see who may be advancing to the doubles round!" she said.

Winter closed her eyes and breathed heavily. "I wasn't going to tell them that, Penny."

"Oh! Sorry..."

Cinder laughed off the mistake. "No worries," she said. "We were actually wondering the same thing." The Maiden turned to one specific teammate. "Flora, you've improved a lot since we trained. And I think you're the one who missed the least amount of shots."

"Okay, yeah," Flora said. "But you don't wanna talk about this in private?"

"Don't worry. I got a feeling these two are gonna be in the doubles." She decided to add a little sass of her own. "If they win."

"Don't worry," said Winter, who sat down with Penny. "We will."

Cinder laughed again. "Wow, Winter. You're normally not like this."

"I hope you'll forgive me for being excited." Winter looked around. "I've seen the Vytal Festival tournament before, with my family. I never thought I'd be living it."

"Neither did we," Fauna said as she pointed to her sisters. "Up close and personal, the feeling's wicked different."

"Then, I'll have to see it for myself," Winter said, who began to calm herself and mentally prepare for the battle ahead. But the same couldn't be said for Penny.

"I too will see this experience for myself!" She raised her hand to her face and saluted, moving it immediately. "I'm combat read-Oops!" Her sun hat almost fell off, but she quickly fixed it. She didn't want anyone to see why she was wearing a hat, so she stood up. "Um, excuse me." She quickly took off.

"Is she okay?" Cinder asked, unable to remember the last time Penny displayed any signs of being embarrassed.

"I'm not sure," said Winter. "She's really been paying attention to that hat."

"She probably has a big zit or something," said Flora. "Been there."

Cinder knew that was impossible, since she knew Penny's true nature. "I'll go check on her," she said as she stood up.

Merri stood up as well, but faster than Cinder. "Hang on," she said. "I'll come with you."

"No!" Cinder cried out in fear. When she realized how that sounded, she quickly cleared her throat and made a lie. "No, um, Penny's a little shy sometimes. It'd be better if I go alone."

"Okay."

Cinder nodded and looked to her other teammates. "Girls, be nice to Winter." She then walked away from the stand and looked around for Penny.

And surprisingly, she found her friend out on the outskirts of the nearby forest, having removed her hat and holding her hand against her forehead.

"Penny, are you okay?" Cinder asked, causing the girl to jump. "What's wrong?"

After reassuring herself that Cinder already knew her secret, Penny turned around and revealed what was the source of her current problem; a large black magnet had unfortunately stuck itself to her metal head. And when she tried to pull it off, her hand became stuck as well.

"It has been here since I left the General's airship," she shyly said to her friend.

Cinder did the best she could to keep a calm composure, but couldn't help but laugh for a few seconds. "Oh, Penny!" she said after she stopped laughing. "You should have said something! Hang on, let me help."

Cinder was able to pull Penny's hand off, but the magnet was being extraordinarily stubborn about leaving. Cinder moved closer into the tree lines to hide her efforts in order to prevent anyone asking why there was a magnet stuck to Penny's head.

After about a minute of pulling, Cinder took a closer look at the magnet. "Hm, this looks like a large electromagnet," she said. "Maybe I can disconnect the battery." Cinder carefully used her Semblance to melt the end of the magnet. "Sorry if this hurts."

"It is fine," Penny replied. "I have set my pain sensors to their lowest setting."

"Oh. Good to know." Cinder continued to melt the metal. "There's still a lot I gotta learn about you, Penny."

"There is a lot I wish to learn as well."

"Oh, yeah?" Cinder had created a hole on the back of the battery, where she saw multiple small wires. "Like avoiding magnets?"

Penny laughed. "I have already learned that, silly. I actually want to learn more about being a Huntress."

Cinder put two fingers inside the case. "Well, Atlas Academy seems like the right place for you."

"Actually, Cinder... I want to stay at Beacon."

"Wait, what?!"

Cinder pulled back her fingers and accidentally pushed Penny down in shock. The magnet finally came off and Penny rubbed the part of her head as she sat up.

"Sorry, sorry!" Cinder hastily apologized as she helped Penny stand up. "I just... You want stay at Beacon? Why?"

Penny hesitated before answering, unsure how Cinder would understand. "You're my friend, right?" she inquired. "You promise you're my friend?"

"Yeah. Yeah, I promise."

Penny looked around to make sure no other Atlesians were close. Then she answered her friend. "I do not believe Atlas is where I belong. I have been given many rules, orders, and instructions to follow. The only way I can express myself is by going to another Kingdom, by competing in this tournament. I feel, as people may describe, at home here."

"..."

Cinder could see how trapped Penny felt, and how trapped she actually was. She had been burdened with a responsibility she never asked for, just like Cinder had been burdened with being a Maiden. Cinder had grown to accept this responsibility, but Penny was relatively a newborn. She had an understanding of what was expected of her, but her heart wasn't in place.

So Cinder decided to fix that.

"You were really brave for telling me all of that," said Cinder. She then began to look around her surroundings, repeating Penny's original actions. "I actually want to share a secret too. But you're my friend too, right?"

"Of course," Penny said. "It would seem unfair if I did nothing for you, given what you have just done."

Cinder nodded and raised her hand to her neck. She still wasn't wearing her Mandalorian necklace, so all she did was lower her collar. In turn, this revealed a thick line around her neck that Cinder was ashamed to see. "You see this line here? What do you think caused it?"

Penny looked closer at Cinder's neck. Her pupils began to move clockwise, as if they were zooming in like camera lenses. After a few more seconds of observation, Penny moved away. "It appears to be a response to a repeated action," she said. "A repeated trauma, given the color. A likely diagnosis would be a rope, or perhaps-"

"An electric shock," Cinder finished. "We're more alike than you think, Penny."

"We are? How do you mean?"

Cinder took a deep breath as she shared her story. "When I was a little girl, I was... for lack of a better word, a slave. You know what that is, right?"

Penny moved back and looked straight ahead. "Slave; a person who is the legal property of another and is forced to obey them." Once she finished her definition, Penny's eyes widened. "You were-"

"Just like that." Cinder began to count on her fingers. "I had to fold the laundry, clean the dishes, and wash every room inside a quadruple-floor building. If I refused or made a small mistake... Zap!" Cinder pointed to her throat for emphasis. "It was years before I met the man who adopted me, who took me here. I was... I am free. But that doesn't mean my life is carefree. I still have... a tremendous responsibility. But I have people who care about me, who want to share my burdens with me." Cinder gently took Penny's hands and smiled. "You have people around you too, Penny. People who can help you through anything."

Penny looked down at her hands, thinking about the people she was surrounded by. Her father was always looking out for her well-being, making sure she wouldn't be in extreme danger and that she was given the love she needed. General Ironwood and Winter were there as well, always guiding her in the direction they felt was right for her. Despite the fact she felt trapped at times, Penny was able to take comfort in knowing she would never be alone in her darkest hour.

But there was one person Penny wanted to have in her life, one who could provide her with the wisdom she needed to go through her uncertain times.

"Are you... one of those people?" Penny asked. "I do not know what would have happened if I did not hear that. And there may be a time when I need to hear something similar."

Cinder barely tightened her embrace. "Of course," she promised. "If you're ever confused or scared, I'll be a CCT-call away. But you can't run away from what you're afraid of. You have to promise me, okay?"

"Okay!" Penny quickly and tightly hugged Cinder. "Thank you, Cinder! You're the best friend anyone could ever have!"

The metal embrace caused Cinder to activate her Aura, to block out the unintentional pain Penny was causing her. Before she could ask her friend to release her, Cinder heard the sound of her name, as well as Penny's.

"Penny! Cinder!"

The pair left the trees to see Winter walking around the fairgrounds. She had just taken her Scroll out of her pocket, preparing to call either Cinder or Penny. But she looked away from it when Cinder cleared her throat. "There you are," she said as she put the device away. "We've been picked to fight, Penny. Our teammates are waiting for us."

"Then there is no time to waste!" Penny said as she made her way to the nearest airship, with Cinder and Winter following behind her.

"Trouble while you were gone?" Winter asked, slightly concerned about Penny's emotional state.

"Not really," Cinder explained. "She just had a moment of doubt."

"Ah, I see." Winter looked back to Penny. "It seems you got her in the right mood."

"I just told her it's good to run towards your problems, not away from them."

*BUZZ*

*BUZZ*

The sound of her Scroll caused Cinder to take it out of her pocket once again. She looked at the screen to see that it was another call from the Mandalorian. And once again, she declined the call.

"Practice what you preach, Cinder."

The dark haired girl quickly looked over to Winter, who was staring her in the eyes. "You've never ignored a call from your father," she said. "Even in the company of your friends."

Cinder sighed in response to her friend's astute observation. "I'm not running away from it," she explained. "I'm just... still trying to figure it out."

"Figure what out?"

"Oh, no. It's nothing you need to get worried about." Cinder held her head up high. "Besides, I can't let you think about it before your match."

"I don't think this will trouble the Ice Queen." Winter explained what she meant when she remembered that Cinder wasn't one of her fellow cadets. "It's a nickname some of the cadets gave me, saying that's how all Schnees are."

"What? That is so cruel," Cinder replied.

"It is, but the military isn't for the faint of heart," Winter said. "Besides, with all the nicknames that are given to our commanders and superior officers, General Ironwood told me there could be a chance I could give the name a different meaning. A better one." The young Atlesian quickly got back on topic. "So go ahead. I won't let it concern me too much."

Cinder sighed as she decided to let another one of her friends in. "Okay. When I finally met my mom, she told me some things."

"What things?"

"Mainly why I was put in an orphanage. It all started when my father died."

"Your birth-father." Winter was putting the pieces together to make a theory about her friend's situation. "You're trying to see how Mr. Djarin would fit in all this."

"Not exactly. Well... he might be involved with this, I don't know."

"How?"

"My birth-father was killed... by Mandalorians."

Winter paused in her movement. "What?" she whispered.

"Yeah, I know," Cinder replied. "After he died, I was sent to live at an orphanage while my mother readjusted. But a fire burned down the orphanage, I was sent somewhere else, and, well... you know the rest."

Winter immediately felt sorry for her friend, and she decided to help her the only way she knew how; with rational thinking. "What kind of Mandalorians?" she asked. "You told me there were all kinds of clans."

"The helmet wasn't a common color. It was pure chrome, no paint or sign from a clan. The only Mandalorians like that I can think of are Death Watch and... the Watch."

"You mean your father's people?"

Cinder nodded. "They don't really adhere to a certain color choice. They're all over the place with their paint job. And Death Watch usually has a mixture of blue and chrome, from what Dad told me." Cinder sighed again. "Both clans moved around a lot, and I vaguely remember hearing the Watch used to live somewhere in Mistral. Even still, there's just so much I can't figure out right now. And if Dad finds out, who knows how he'll react?!" Cinder rubbed her head and began to calm down. "Even if it wasn't the Watch, what difference does it make? I'm a Mandalorian, I joined the people who killed my father. What does that... What does that make me?"

The more Cinder talked, the more Winter understood her dilemma. She knew how badly Cinder had wanted to meet her parents, how badly she wanted to know the truth about herself. But neither of them could have expected something like this. And Cinder never expected that becoming a Mandalorian may drive her mother away, and may drive Din Djarin away as well.

Despite this truth, Winter knew that Cinder could never be like the monsters her mother, or anyone else for that matter, had described the Mandalorians as being. She also knew that Cinder needed to know this as well.

"Let me answer your question with a question," Winter suggested as she resumed to walk towards the airship docks. "How does that make you different?"

Cinder shot a puzzled look at Winter before catching up to her. "What do you mean?" she asked.

"Whoever those Mandalorians were, the ones that killed your father... they're not the Mandalorian I call my friend. If someone chooses to see the helmet you wear instead of the person beneath it, they're no different from the cadets who talk behind my back."

Cinder knew what Winter meant. While it made her feel a little better, she didn't show it. "I appreciate that, Winter," she said. "I really do. But part of my problem is my parents. What if they expect me to choose between them? What if they start fighting if they meet, and I'm caught in the middle? What do I do then?"

"If that happens, I trust you'll make the right choice. Take it from someone whose father had no regard for his children; your true family reveals itself in time."

"Well... I know what you're saying, but I... I-"

"Cinder!"

The mentioned girl turned around when a familiar voice from behind called out her name. There she saw her teammates walking towards her.

"There you are," said Merri. "We were starting to think you were running out on us."

"Yeah, where are you headed?" Fauna asked.

"Oh, I was just going back to the Colosseum," Cinder replied calmly. "Winter and Penny are up."

"Oh, cool!" Flora exclaimed. "Let's see how it goes!"

When Winter and Penny finally arrived at Amity Colosseum, they had about five minutes to spare. While they were waiting, the girls decided to meet up with their teammates, who were waiting outside the combatants entrance.

There was the team leader, Rachel Rampion. She was seventeen like the majority of Atlas students, who had a head of long golden hair. Little did her opponents know that her Semblance gave her hair a life of its own, one that would commence any attack Rachel thought of. And she was planning on using it against the opponents she would be fighting. The other member was Ikaros Rampion, Rachel's brother. Given his overconfidence and untamed ambitions, Rachel made sure to keep a close eye on him. Under her direction, Ikaros was able to use his Semblance, the ability to sprout a pair of wings, wisely in battle.

Together, all of the teenagers made Team RIPW. Winter wasn't very fond of the name, given that rainbows weren't usually seen in Atlas and there was no "B" in any of their names. At the same time, she could see how it could make people, mainly children, happy. Penny, on the other hand, found the name to be positive and embraced it, along with the rest of her team.

"Hey, there they are!" Rachel said to her brother as she laid eyes upon Winter and Penny. "We were starting to think you weren't coming."

"We are sorry to have kept you worried!" Penny apologized. "We were congratulating the leader of Team CMFF for their success!"

"CMFF?" Ikaros asked. "Oh, wait. That's your friend's team, right?"

"It is," Winter confirmed. "I still have yet to properly introduce the two of you to her."

"Hell yeah, you do! I'm gonna swipe that girl off her feet."

Winter sighed. "Now I remember why I still need to introduce you to her."

"Come on, Winter!" Ikaros fixed his hair and made a toothy grin. "There's no way she can resist this! What does she have that I don't?"

"A boyfriend," Winter replied.

"An attitude that's not as cocky as yours, I imagine," Rachel said to her brother.

"Dark hair!" Penny pointed out, causing confusion between the siblings.

"Oh, yeah?" Ikaros asked, ignoring Penny's strange answer. "Well... I bet she doesn't have these bad boys!" He immediately sprouted his wings using his Semblance, nearly hitting his sister in the process.

"Careful, bro," Rachel warned. "We both need full Auras for this fight." She then looked over to her teammates. "You girls ready to kick some butt?"

"I'm combat ready!" Penny yelled in excitement. Winter simply nodded as she mentally prepared herself for the battle. Just then, they were directed to approach the arena while Professor Port and Doctor Oobleck were introducing the new combatants.

Winter learned that she would be fighting a team from Shade Academy, Team AMBR. All of the members were boys and were led by Adam Nieve, a young man with white hair who could crush Dust crystals and blow its elements to make a strong storm. He was followed by Marcus Helios, Bruce Glace, and Russel Gelu. All four members were known to have Semblances involved with the cold, a clear irony to the harsh environment of Vacuo. And now they were ready to prove that victory was a dish best served cold.

The screens all around the arena began to show spinning images. Half of them, the ones behind Team RIPW, landed on a yellow image of dunes and stone. Just then, the image took a life of its own when it appeared out of the ground behind them.

"Alright!" Marcus cried out. "Home field advantage!"

"Hold up, man," Adam warned. "They have our land. Let's see what we got, and then see if we can take their sand for ourselves." Just as he said that, the images behind Team AMBR landed on a blue symbol of waves. The sea, along with more sand and a pirate ship, appeared behind them. Adam immediately looked to Marcus. "You thinking what I'm thinking?"

"Ice rink in the water?" his teammate asked with a nod.

"See if you and Russel can lure some of them over here first. Then we'll freeze it."

"Gotcha."

Professor Port began the countdown when he saw the new challengers take their stances. "Three... two... one... BEGIN!" he demanded.

Winter quickly made a Glyph into the ground while Marcus tapped Russel's shoulder and took off running. Russel followed his teammate's lead and ran behind him with a pair of katana blades. Just then, he was met by a fast-traveling Winter, who used her Glyphs to move as fast as lightning. The two engaged in a duel while Marcus made contact with Rachel.

"Ikaros, get on top of the ship!" the team leader ordered. Her brother quickly sprouted his wings and flew to the mast of the ship. He then took out two mismatching pieces of metal in his arms. Working fast, he combined the metal to create a sniper rifle and shoot at the enemies below.

"Looks like the ice will have to wait," Adam thought as he took out a crystal of Wind Dust. Quickly biting down on it, the young man used his Semblance and began to blow into the air. A large windstorm was created and Ikaros quickly folded his wings and grabbed the mast. Adam then blew onto the ground to fly up to the mast and meet his new target.

Penny finally stopped standing around when Bruce began to walk up to her and crack his knuckles. As he did, his hands turned white and sprouted crystals of ice. Every punch he threw would leave a freezing burn on his enemies, and he knew Penny was about to feel this pain. However, Penny stood her ground and watched her target run closer to her. Suddenly, a piece of metal on her back opened, causing a metal sword to spring out and hover above her head. The sword moved quickly to land in between his legs, leaving a briefly shocked Bruce to stop in his tracks.

"Holy crap!" he yelled as he looked up. "Are you trying to cut off my-?!"

Two more swords quickly hovered above Penny's head and flew to Bruce's sides. Penny then jumped in the air and sprang forward as thin strings on the swords began to retract. She was then able to land a kick to Bruce's head before flipping backwards and taking her swords with her.

Rachel was using mixed martial arts to fight Marcus, who was holding his own with his own fighting style. However, Rachel quickly used her Semblance to give her hair life. It then wrapped itself around Marcus' leg when he sent a kick that Rachel dodged. He found himself being thrown on the metal ground, losing more and more of his Aura. He only stopped moving when he was thrown on the sand dune along with Russel. Rachel and Winter began to move closer to their opponents.

"He's not so tough," Rachel said with a smirk.

"Stay focused," Winter ordered as she created one more Glyph on the ground. Small white Nevermores began to fly towards the boys, who quickly ran behind the sand dune.

"This isn't working out!" Russel said.

"We need to get them to the water!" Marcus declared. "If we can freeze them, we'll finish them off! I'll try to make some snow outta this sand, see if you can freeze the ground behind them first!"

Russel nodded and moved above the sand dune. He then focused his energy into his katana before he made a swipe in the air. The blue energy quickly moved behind the two girls, causing the metal behind them to be covered in ice. As they turned back to the sand dune, it exploded into white snow, causing the two girls to fly back and skid on the ice. They flew closer and closer to the water, where Adam finally succeeded in knocking Ikaros out of the air and into the water. Marcus and Russel quickly threw their opponents into the water and stood back.

Winter looked up and saw Russel prepare to freeze the water with his sword and Adam bite onto an Ice Dust crystal. "Ikaros, get us out of here!" she cried.

"I can't, my wings got damp when I fell!" Ikaros said. Just then, the water froze at their legs, leaving them trapped in the frozen water.

"Winter, try to cut us out of here!" Rachel ordered as her golden hair began to move on its own. "I'll keep the boys back." Her hair moved towards the members of Team AMBR, causing them to back away.

"Keep your distance," Adam ordered. "You two used a lotta Aura to get them here."

"Let's crash that ship on them," Marcus suggested. "Maybe all four of us can-"

"And Bruce Glace is the first to be eliminated!" Oobleck shouted into his microphone.

The boys weren't paying attention to the two teachers of Beacon while they were fighting, and this was the first thing they heard. Adam's confusion caused him to turn around and ask a question. "Wait. Where's the other girl?"

Everyone turned to see Penny standing over an unconscious Bruce. She then created more swords above her head. Quickly moving her arms, Penny caused all of her present swords to fly towards the boys. However, they all barely missed and landed straight into the ice. The young girl then moved back and commanded the strings to pull, causing the ice to break into chunks. After a few seconds, the ice broke and freed the rest of Team RIPW. The swords continued to stay in the large blocks of ice, and made their way towards the remaining members of Team AMBR.

"Oh, son of a-"

*BAM*

The chunks of hard ice slammed into the boys and caused them to fly out of the arena and crash into the Hard-Light shield protecting the audience. "Team RIPW wins by knockout!" Port said into his microphone. "Quite literally! Can... someone go make sure they're okay?"

Team RIPW united together and smiled at their victory while waving at the audience. The Blair sisters clapped at the sight while Cinder jumped out of her chair and slapped her hands together as loudly as she could.

When she left the arena, Winter couldn't help but feel that she had bruised her ego in the fight. She remembered seeing multiple errors on both ends of Cinder's fight, but the feeling was different when she was the one who was fighting. And now, she knew that her family, General Ironwood, and Admiral Thrawn were watching her. In her mind, Winter had no doubt that everyone she thought of was going to view her differently after that fight.

Penny was the first one who noticed that her stress was high, but Winter did her best to play it off. Instead, she decided to finally introduce her teammates to Cinder, who immediately took a liking to Rachel. Ikaros, however, was someone she left for the Blair sisters to fight over. Together, all eight teenagers either played games at the fairgrounds or watched more and more team matches. By the time the sun was setting, the team matches had ended and the tournament would begin tomorrow.

Ikaros insisted that their celebration wasn't over when the sun had set. Cinder, Winter, Penny, and Rachel disagreed, saying that they needed to rest for tomorrow. However, the Blair sisters agreed with the young man and decided to take him out on the town. Rachel decided not to go and told Ikaros to be back soon. Winter and Penny joined her, leaving Cinder alone to go back to her dorm room.

But when she saw a man in Mandalorian armor sitting in her room, Cinder knew she wouldn't be getting rest as soon as she thought.

"Dad!" Cinder yelled, surprised to see him where she least expected him to be. "What, uh... What are you doing here?"

"I knew you'd be here eventually," Djarin said as he stood up. "I knew that this would be the only time to talk, given you've been ignoring my calls."

"What, I can't be hanging out with my friends?"

"I never said that. But now I'm saying you can't ignore all of my calls."

"...Okay, sure." Cinder walked into the room and closed the door. "Sorry, that was a dumb thing to do." She began to walk to her bed and prepared to lie down.

"Hold on," the Mandalorian said as he held her arm. As soon as she looked at him, he let her go. "We're not done talking yet."

"What else do we need to talk about?"

"Why you've been avoiding me ever since you met your mother."

Cinder's eyes widened as soon as her secret had been exposed. "You know about that?" she asked.

"I know now."

Cinder lost focus when she realized what had just happened, how she gave herself away. Rather than being angry with herself, she was angry that Djarin had pulled something like that on her. "That was a dirty trick," she said as she sat down. "Even for you."

"I know," Djarin admitted, regretting the need he felt to do so. "But one day you wanted to talk nonstop about her, and the next you don't even talk to me? Something's going on, isn't there?"

Cinder felt like an ant in the presence of the Mandalorian, intimidated by the fact that she had become an open book simply by not seeing him for what felt like ages. And there was no use in denying the fact that there was something wrong. But was Cinder ready to let it out? Was she ready to tell the truth as she did before? Was she ready to tell it to the only person that it mattered to?

"...No."

Djarin lost his initial confidence when she answered. "No?" he asked.

"No," Cinder repeated. "It's nothing."

Djarin knew that Cinder was lying, which was why he pressed on. "I don't believe that."

"I don't care." Cinder stood up from the bed. "Why should I care, when you barge in here and play some mind game just to get what you want? Like seriously, what the hell?!"

"..."

Now it was Djarin's turn to be intimidated by his present company. "I... see you're upset," he said. "Maybe I got carried away."

"You think?!" Cinder wasn't in the mood to yell anymore, let alone talk. "Look, now's not really the best time, okay? Can you just... respect that?"

"..."

Djarin immediately disappeared via his Semblance, causing Cinder to sigh in relief. "Thank you," she said, even though nobody was around.

*KNOCK*

*KNOCK*

*KNOCK*

Realizing that she may have spoken too soon, Cinder quickly opened the door and began to talk. "Dad, I'm really not-Rachel?"

On the other side of the door stood Rachel Rampion, who looked confused. "Sorry," she said. "I'm, uh, not interrupting anything, am I?"

"No, no!" Cinder insisted. "I just... thought you were someone else." She cleared her throat and talked to her acquaintance properly. "Can I help you?"

"Yeah, I was wondering if you've seen Ikaros. A few Beacon students told me where to find your dorm, and I figured he would still be here with your teammates." Rachel glanced through the pieces of the room she could see behind Cinder. "Then again, it looks like I was wrong." Her eyes suddenly landed on something behind Cinder. "Holy crap! Is that what I think it is?"

Cinder looked behind her to see that her Beskar armor was standing behind the doorframe. "Oh, yeah," she replied. "That's a set of Mando armor, alright." She then stepped out of the way. "Wanna see it?"

"If you don't mind."

Cinder gestured for Rachel to come inside, where she began to look and gently touch the metal. "I've seen something like this in a museum, but I never imagined seeing it up close," she said. "How did you get it?"

"That's... a long story," Cinder answered. She then remembered why Rachel was here. "I'm sorry, I haven't seen your brother. Or my team, for that matter. Guess they like to party, huh?"

"That's Ikaros, alright." Rachel sighed. "That idiot always gets into some kind of trouble. At least he didn't drag me into it this time." The blonde teenager quickly realized who she talking to. "Crap, sorry. I didn't mean to bore you."

"No, it's okay," Cinder insisted. "I know how it is. Family driving you crazy."

"Oh, yeah? You got a brother?"

"No, my problems are more with my parents. I live with my dad, but let's just say I just found out something crazy with my mom."

"Ohhh. My parents are divorced, too."

Cinder didn't see the need to correct Rachel, given the circumstances with her parents. "Aw, I'm sorry. That's terrible."

"It was hard, living while it was happening," Rachel explained. "When they separated, the worst part was us deciding who we would live with. God, how can people expect you to make a choice like that?"

Cinder felt an immediate connection despite the differences. She didn't want to make someone she barely knew feel sad, but there was one thing she wanted to know. "So, what happened?"

"I settled with my dad. Ikaros didn't want to be alone, so he came with me. Things were fine at first, but then she learned we wanted to go to Atlas Academy. She didn't like the idea of her kids being Grimm-chow. Her words, not mine."

"My mom's kinda like that too."

"Oh, yeah? Doesn't want you to be a Huntress, or something like that?"

"Something like that, yeah." Cinder rubbed her hand on the Beskar steel. "My dad thinks I'm doing great, but I know my mom thinks different. It makes me wonder if I made the right choices, you know?"

"Really?" Rachel asked. "But you did great in the first match! And you're Winter's age, and the leader of your own team! Why would that be a bad choice?"

"Given how it's dealing with two people who really matter to me," Cinder explained. Even though she barely knew her mother and that she never told her that she was a Mandalorian, finally meeting her meant the world to the child.

"Cinder... I know we just met, but believe me; I get it," said Rachel. "My parents couldn't agree with each other about a life of hunting Grimm, and I got caught in the middle. But I just became... I just became numb to it, you know? The bad feelings, the constant disagreements, I just don't care anymore. I love my parents, but I don't care if one agrees with me while another doesn't."

"Makes sense," Cinder agreed. "But I just don't think my mom likes... the system. Of being a, uh, Huntress."

"Maybe you can change that. You ever hear the phrase 'change something from the inside?'" Rachel looked out the window to Beacon. "A lotta people say Atlas Academy has some problems. So when I graduate, maybe I can stay behind, change a few things to make the system better." She looked back to Cinder. "I'm not sure what problems, if any, Beacon has. But maybe you can show your mom it's not as bad as she thinks. Right?"

"..."

Before Cinder could say anything, the door opened to reveal the Blair sisters. "Hey, Cindy!" Fauna said. "Man, you missed out, girl!"

"Hey, Rachel," Merri addressed the second girl. "What's going on?"

"Just looking for my brother," she replied. "I thought he'd be with you."

"He was. He wanted to stay at the club a little longer, but we couldn't keep up."

"Ugh. Guess who has to go get him?" Rachel walked out the door, but then turned back. "Hey, Cinder. It's too bad you can't wear that armor next time you fight. Bet you'd kick some butt with it."

The next day started just like the last one. More fights in the tournament had commenced, but they were in the doubles round this time. Cinder spent more time watching the fights, but decided to enjoy them from a TV in her room. All of the advice and wisdom she had received yesterday still lingered in her head, and she was beginning to make her decision as to how she would handle the unexpected predicament she found herself in. In doing so, she became numb to her surroundings. Her teammates decided to only disturb her when it was their turn to fight. Until then, she would just watch the battles and ignore everything else.

The only time she decided to engage with the world was when she sent a message to her father, promising to talk after her match. He received it and responded in less than ten seconds, but still felt upset about everything.

"Leave it be, Djarin," said Glynda, who was sitting at a computer. "We still have work to do."

The Mandalorian silently moved to Glynda's computer and looked at the screen. "What is this, again?" he asked.

"These are all the files of every student participating in the tournament," the professor explained. "Qualifications, Semblances, medical records, they're all right here. And currently, it's our job to see who should be fighting who in both the double and single rounds."

"I thought the fights were chosen at random."

"That's the public story. For the safety of both the students and spectators, we make sure each combatant is given a fair, yet challenging, opponent. Not exactly cheating, just taking necessary precautions."

Djarin continued to stare at the screen, but found himself more confused than before. "I don't follow," he said.

"Maybe an example should help," Glynda said as she looked at two files. "Clementine Wayne has the ability to see in the dark. Her Aura has strengthened since being accepted at Shade, but a recent knee surgery absorbs a lot of Aura at said knee." Glynda opened the next file. "And Charlotte Brown's tendency to attack at the legs with her war hammer would cost Ms. Wayne another trip to the hospital. Wouldn't you agree?"

"...I suppose."

Glynda sighed as her partner's obvious distracted behavior. As she questioned why Ozpin thought it would be a good idea for them to work on something this serious, she decided to clear the air. "Djarin, Cinder's a teenager. Of course she'll ignore her father and be out with her friends. I went through that phase as well."

"I'm just worried," the Mandalorian confessed.

"So am I. I was hesitant to let our Fall Maiden be put in a scenario where using her powers may feel natural, but Ozpin believed it would remind her of her lessons in discipline. And given her fight, he was right." Glynda took off her glasses and rubbed her eyes. "If it's bothering you that much, take my advice; be firm, but fair."

Djarin nodded. "I did that, but I think it was the wrong time. Guess I have to wait."

"Good!" Glynda turned back to the computer, content with her work. "You see, Djarin? I've seen you be a responsible parent multiple times before, why should this be any different?"

"Because there's something else going on."

Glynda continued to look at the computer, but decided to multitask and talk to her partner. "How is it that you're able to think outside the box when you're either fighting or overthinking?" she asked.

"This time, I have a reason to overthink," Djarin claimed. "Cinder recently told me that she found her birth mother."

Glynda had unexpectedly found another reason to look away from her computer. "After all this time? That's wonderful news!"

"I know. She was happy the last time I talked to her about it. Really happy."

Glynda began to have an idea as to what made Djarin upset. "You're being ridiculous," she bluntly claimed. "How can you think that she'll leave the man who raised her behind when she found someone who was never there? You two have been through so much!"

"I believed that wouldn't happen. Cinder said it herself. But not long after mentioning this, she ignores my calls and I only get to see her during training. Never any time personally. And she wouldn't even talk to me when I told her not to ignore calls from me."

"Well... that could just be a-"

"Coincidence? I think not."

Glynda knew that the Mandalorian was being irrational, but that didn't mean she couldn't see the point he was making. And it was also interrupting her from working.

"Djarin, I really think you're overthinking this," she said. "And maybe working is a bad idea. Why don't you try and clear your head? Maybe head to the fairgrounds or Amity? The last team match will be starting soon."

"I'm fine," Djarin insisted.

Glynda was going to insist that the Mandalorian leave and let her work, but then she had an idea. "How about I give you a reason to go to Amity?" Glynda pulled four files from the list of students and placed them in what was supposed to be the randomization process. In those places were Cinder, Flora, Winter, and Penny. "This looks like an interesting fight, doesn't it?"

"..."

Djarin saw this as an opportunity to maybe see Cinder closer and see how she reacted. It would put his worries to rest yet again, and it was clear that Glynda wanted him out of her hair.

So he silently teleported out of the room.

Glynda let out a sigh of relief. "Thank the Gods," she said as she rubbed her eyes. "Maybe I can finally get some work done." She began to turn to the computer screen. "That's one fight down, and-"

RECORD MATCH IN BEACON SYSTEM. INVESTIGATE?

YES

NO

Glynda looked at the screen and began to see what was going on. The computer was showing a precautionary message about medical records, indicating that there was a match between two or more people. It was there in case there were any details that were missed or overlooked. In fact, Glynda remembered when she was able to use a record match to suggest a blood transfusion after a horrible accident one year. And Glynda believed the computer had just detected the triplet state of Flora, Fauna, and Merriweather. So she clicked the "YES" button to confirm her case.

She then saw not one, but two pictures begin to flash; Flora and Cinder.

"Huh?" Glynda asked as she looked at the screen. When she clicked on Flora's image, she saw that the records she gave to Beacon indeed matched with her sisters. When she looked at Cinder, her instincts told her that a glitch must have occurred in the system. So she decided to test the theory and see what would happen.

"Wait... what?"

Evening had fallen onto Amity Colosseum, and the final doubles round was about to commence. Just as Glynda had made it, Winter and Penny were going to fight Cinder and Flora. And while they were waiting to be called out, the combatants were talking amongst themselves. Cinder momentarily went to the restroom and left her teammate to her own devices.

"You two may be from Atlas, you may be younger, you may have bigger weapons, but believe you me; I can fight!" Flora confidently declared, who seemed to be ready for anything.

"We will be prepared for anything you have!" Penny retorted.

"I hope you'll be doing the same," Winter said. The young Schnee was waiting all day for a moment to redeem herself for yesterday's battle. She was more than determined to make sure she wouldn't come close to losing another fight, and she would be damned before she lost. When cheering outside made Winter lose her focus, she turned to the direction of the excited crowd. "It's too bad Rachel's still looking for Ikaros. Looks like we drew quite the audience."

"We did."

A new voice from behind caused the girls to turn around and see Cinder. But there was a difference to her; rather than wearing her usual and carefree attire, she was wearing her Beskar armor with a proud smile. "And I think they're in for quite the show," she said.

Flora dropped her jaw in shock at the sight. However, she was able to recover from the feeling and complimented her leader. "Oooh, back in black!" she said. "And, y'know, the other colors."

"Oh, my!" Penny said as she looked at the armor. "Rachel told us you acquired a Mandalorian suit, but I did not expect to see it here!"

"Neither did I," Winter agreed as she walked over to Cinder. "It's quite the look, but don't you need to register whatever you're wearing and carrying in the tournament?"

"Yeah, it's a rule," Cinder said as she took out her Scroll, which had the rules of the tournament on it. "But students are allowed to wear anything that relates to religion, even if it's not registered."

"So?"

"I'm a Mandalorian. Weapons and armor are a part of my religion."

Winter looked at her friend's Scroll and saw the clever loophole Cinder had exploited. A slight hint of annoyance came from this discovery, as Winter couldn't help but ponder the idea that this could be considered cheating. However, she quickly moved away from her ego and kept her feelings hidden. "You always were a smart girl, Cinder," she said as she returned the Scroll. "I guess we'll have to see how good you are with that armor."

"Don't worry, you will."

The sound of their names being called caused the girls to walk out to the arena. Flora quickly walked up to Cinder and talked to her again. "So, what's with the change of mind?" she asked. "Uh, it looks good, don't get me wrong. But... weren't you worried about-?"

"Not anymore," Cinder declared. "I got a few ideas how to make it work. Don't worry."

"..."

"And here they are!" Doctor Oobleck said through his microphone. "The representatives of Teams CMFF and RIPW have come for the final doubles round!" From the booth he was sitting in, Oobleck leaned closer at the arena. "And what's this?"

"Ah, it seems one of my favorite students is in touch with her ancestral roots!" said Professor Port. "Yes, young Cinder is the daughter of Beacon's own Professor Din Djarin, a firm Mandalorian follower. While this has generated debate over time, Professor Djarin has yet to disappoint anyone with his teaching and dedication to Beacon itself." Professor Port examined the crowd and saw something that caught his eye. "Ah, and there he is now!"

When Cinder looked up on the screen, she could see her father sitting in the crowd. And the only thing he was doing was waving at his daughter, expressing his support and wishing for good luck. So Cinder decided to make lemonade out of the lemons that life had just given her by quickly looking towards her father's direction and blowing him a kiss. "Well now, that has got to be the sweetest gesture I've seen in this arena!" Port said into his microphone.

Rather than observe the display, Winter took hold of her sword and prepared to fight. Penny noticed this and simply moved next to Winter while holding her hands behind her back. Cinder and Flora decided that it was time to prepare themselves as well.

"Time to fight the good fight," Flora said as she took out her sickle. "You ready?"

"Born ready," Cinder replied as she placed her helmet on. She couldn't make it out, but she could swear that she could hear someone booing behind her. When she looked, she saw a group of fans from Atlas behind her. The booing suddenly became understandable, so Cinder decided to focus on the spinning images behind her. They stopped and showed multiple pictures of land surroundings. One was a forest, another was a pack of geysers, another was sheer debris, and the last was a thick field of tall grass. Just then, all four surroundings appeared onto the arena. And Professor Port began the countdown of the final doubles round.

"Three... two... one... BEGIN!"

Winter decided to begin the fight differently than before. She stuck her sword into the ground, but decided to summon small Nevermores and direct them towards her opponents. Flora was about to run, but Cinder stood in front of her teammate and raised her arm. Her flamethrower activated and the fire burned each and every one of Winter's Grimm.

"Ah, an interesting trick up her sleeve!" Port said in his microphone.

Winter quickly lifted her sword and ran towards Cinder. Penny had her eyes on Flora, who had disappeared into the tall grass. However, Penny's artificial eyes were able to detect a human shape in one particular region. So she lifted her hands and caused two swords to hover above the tall grass and reap the field. When Flora noticed that she had been detected, she quickly ran deeper into the field.

Winter was striking her blade on a Hard-Light shield Cinder had created as well as one of her own Beskar blades. When it landed on the shield once more, Winter released her smaller blade and sent it across Cinder's side. Part of her armor protected Cinder from the blow, but an exposed piece of her body left her without a fraction of her Aura.

"It appears Ms. Schnee has some tricks of her own!" Oobleck reported. Cinder said nothing, but simply turned off the shield and took out her second sword.

Penny continued to cut the grass, but was unaware that Flora had managed to study the blades' pattern. She used this analysis to quickly grab one sword and pull on it, causing Penny to stumble close to the field. When she stumbled, Penny managed to make her other sword come close to her and stick to the ground, which allowed the young girl to regain her footing. She then used the thin string on her other sword to pull Flora out of the grass and towards her. But, Flora had found out how Penny's swords were connected to her body, so she cut off the wire with her sickle. She then used her momentum to roll closer to Penny and attack with both the sword and her sickle.

"Oh-ho!" Port laughed in excitement. "What will she do now without her weapon?"

To answer the question, Penny flipped backwards while making more swords. When she stopped moving, Penny spread her arms out and pointed her remaining floating swords towards Flora. The swords began to create a form of green energy at the tips, and shot green lasers at Flora. One blast hit Flora in the chest and took a considerable amount of her Aura. "Oh, so they're guns now?!" she shouted as she moved closer to the trees. Penny simply followed while cutting the trees with her swords.

Cinder was continuing her duel with Winter, even though she could end it in an instant. The heat and fire she could feel was a perfect time to use her Maiden powers, and she could take the battle to the air without a jetpack. But since she wasn't in a hurry to reveal her true nature, Cinder blocked each of Winter's attacks and returned with some of her own. Her swordplay with Midnight was impressive, and Cinder began using its combined form as a larger sword rather than a bow. And she had just used that larger sword to knock Winter closer to the geysers.

The Atlesian cadet was able to stop herself from falling into a geyser before she turned back to Cinder. When she realized that her victory wouldn't be won by her skills with a sword, Winter decided to risk more of her Aura by creating another Glyph in the ground. Suddenly, Cinder found herself surrounded by more Glyphs with the Schnee snowflake inside. Before she could react, Cinder felt a quick strike to her body. And then she felt another.

And another.

And another.

And another.

One more strike caused her to come off her feet and move closer to the center of the arena.

"Well now, that was a calculated risk!" Professor Port declared.

"It appears Winter and Cinder are matched not only in skill, but now in Aura levels!" Oobleck noticed when he looked at the scoreboard. "This duel is anyone's game at the moment!"

The world stopped spinning around Cinder when she removed her helmet and started to catch her breath. As she did, she was able to see the look on her friend's face. "Jeez," the young Maiden thought to herself. "She really wants to win." Even though this truth was evident, Cinder wasn't going to back down from a challenge. And even though she wasn't going to resort to using her powers, the elements of heat she could sense from one geyser gave Cinder an idea. She ran towards Winter, who was preparing to send two two icicles from two Glyphs at her. Cinder dodged the icicles and landed in between Winter and the geyser that was about to erupt. Winter decided to lunge at the unarmed Cinder with the tip of her sword aimed at her neck.

But Cinder quickly lunged to the ground and tripped Winter's leading leg, which caused the Atlesian to fall face first into the geyser. And before she could recover, the hot steam erupted and threw Winter back to the center of the arena.

"And Ms. Schnee has been eliminated!" Professor Port shouted into the microphone.

Cinder heard cheering and booing at the same time, but ignored both when she saw that Winter was unconscious. "Eh, she'll be fine," she thought. "Okay, where are Flora and Penny?"

*BOOM*

A dust cloud and an unconscious Flora had escaped the forest, which was caused by an explosion. And the source of that explosion was Penny, who flew to the center of the arena. Cinder noticed that Flora's Aura had fallen into the red, and that she wouldn't be helping her anytime soon.

"Looks like it's you and me, Penny," Cinder declared as she took out her swords.

"It would appear so!" Penny agreed. "I just hope it will be as entertaining as my duel with Flora!"

Cinder chuckled as she spun her blades. "Don't worry. I think we'll be having some fun."

The crowd continued to applaud and cheer, but a young man rose from his seat and yelled down to the combatants. "Shut up and fight!" he screamed.

The two girls complied and began their duel. Cinder saw that Penny had more Aura than her, so she decided to keep her distance and fire Beskar arrows. Penny was able to block the arrows with a fan of blades she created, but one arrow had slipped through the crack and struck Penny in the shoulder. She decided to send her fan towards Cinder, but she was able to dodge the floating array of swords. Penny moved closer and sent a kick to Cinder's gut, which only took a small part of Cinder's Aura.

"That armor seems to holding up well!" Professor Port said. "Though it seems some of the fans are upset at the loophole young Cinder discovered."

"Yes, yes!" Oobleck agreed. "I sense a rule change will be in the works once this is over! But for now, Cinder seems to be using this loophole to her advantage!"

"Both girls have shown everyone such tremendous displays of combat! Both of their defenses have resulted in little Aura loss from the other's attack!"

"It seems that there is no end in sight for this duel!"

After a full minute of attacks and parrying, Cinder and Penny found themselves on opposite ends of the arena's centerpiece. Cinder was breathing heavily and repeatedly clenching her fists. She knew her Aura was close to the red, but she felt strong enough to continue the duel without her Aura. Penny, on the other hand, was feeling her strength leave her. The blades on her back felt heavy as the batteries inside them were beginning to die. She wasn't prepared for such a stressful duel, and she felt that her limit would soon be reached. All she could do was gather her remaining power for one last strike.

After what felt like an eternity, Cinder and Penny lunged at each other one final time, ready to end the fight one way or another. Each member of the audience was leaning towards the screens or the arena itself, dying from anticipation.

And right when the combatants were close to each other, they struck each other with all their strength. And both their Auras shattered at the exact same time.

"I-I-I don't believe it!" Oobleck shouted into his microphone. "Both combatants have simultaneously struck each other's Auras into the red! Ladies and gentlemen... it appears we have a tie!"

Cinder and Penny looked at each other in sheer confusion at the turn of events, and the crowd had also become silent. Everyone was confused as to what a tie meant, but they knew one thing; the fight was over.

"It seems we'll have to review the footage!" Professor Port suggested. "This may take time, so I think now is the best time to call this match to an end."

The crowd cheered and clapped again while Cinder panted on the ground, impressed by Penny's remarkable speed and control of her swords. She had the chance to say this when Penny offered a hand to come off the ground. "That was amazing!" she said as she slapped Penny's shoulder. "You're gonna do great in Mantle, Penny."

Penny smiled and hugged Cinder. "Thank you for a wonderful time!" she said. Cinder happily returned the hug.

"Ah, it does my heart good to see such sportsmanship!" said Professor Port. "And to see two people with little Aura hold their own for that long!"

Cinder let go of Penny to look at the applauding crowd, and her eyes inevitably landed on her father. Instead of sitting, he was standing and clapping, also proud to see her last that long with little Aura. He had no doubt in his mind that she would have won the fight if the rules of Aura didn't apply.

Cinder was thinking the same thing, and wished the fight could have lasted longer. But all she felt like doing was waving and making her way off the platform. Even though she wished she could continue fighting, she knew no other attack would be allowed.

*SWISH*

"Aaahhh!"

Cinder fell to the metal floor with a scream as she felt a clean slice to the unprotected part of her back. Without her Aura to protect her or heal the pain, all she could do was feel the pain on her back.

The cheers and applause had suddenly turned to gasps and screams at the event.

"My word!" Oobleck said as he flew off his seat.

Port turned around to the technicians behind him. "Cut the cameras!" he ordered.

The Mandalorian immediately reacted to the event by using his Semblance to teleport himself to the arena and run to Cinder. "Cinder!" he shouted as he kneeled down to her. "Are you okay?!"

Cinder did her best to move without causing more pain, and managed to get on her knees and look to Djarin. "What... What just happened?" she asked.

"Aaahh!"

Another scream filled the air and caused both Mandalorians to turn around. When Cinder saw the scene before her, she couldn't believe her eyes. She was trying to do everything she could to try and convince herself that it was a lie, that she was dreaming, or that this was some kind of cruel joke.

Winter, her best friend, had just stabbed Flora, a defenseless girl, in her stomach. And she showed no sign of stopping her attack.

Seeing that Flora needed more help than Cinder, Djarin acted quickly and tackled Winter to the ground before she could hurt anyone else.

"What are you doing?!" Winter yelled as she tried to push the Mandalorian off her. "Stop it!"

Djarin quickly pulled out his sidearm and pointed it at the Schnee's face. "Stay down!" he mercilessly ordered.

"..."

Winter's fear finally kicked in when she saw the gun in her face. She silently began to move her hands to show that she was surrendering, but Djarin wasn't done with her just yet.

"What do you do?" he asked.

For some reason, Winter couldn't understand what the Mandalorian was talking about. "I don't-"

"What did you do?!"

"Flora!"

Winter and Djarin looked to see Cinder, who was finally able to stand, run over to her teammate and silently stare at the sword in her side. Penny was also too shocked to say anything. She instead covered her mouth with her hands and watched as Cinder tried to help and Flora screamed.

"Why did she do that?!" Flora screamed.

The arena soon filled with multiple Atlesian Knights and soldiers, with Merri and Fauna following.

"Oh, my God!" Merri screamed as she kneeled down to her sister.

"Somebody help us!" Fauna screamed to the group of soldiers, but they were too busy helping the Mandalorian with Winter. She found herself looking at the screens above her, which depicted her attacking both Cinder and Flora.

"What happened?" Winter asked. "What's going on?"

"Don't play games," Djarin coldly replied as he pushed Winter to a soldier. "Get her out of here." He then ran over to Team CMFF and tried to help. "Don't move her. Paramedics are coming."

"Why did she do that?!" Flora screamed again. "Why did she attack me?!"

Neo-Devil · Oct 31, 2023

hmm...gonna guess Emerald has entered the field, was wondering when she'd make an appearance, though why she's choosing to attack she who in another life, would've been her idol, I've no idea, unless of course someone took Cinder's place...here's to hoping things get resolved from here.

TheCourtofTalons · Nov 7, 2023

Chapter 37: The Truth

"Is this what your people have been teaching Winter at the Academy?! How she can attack her enemies when they're not even looking?!"

"Mrs. Schnee, please-"

"My daughter joined the Atlas military to be a soldier, General! Not a gods-damn executioner!"

"Willow, please calm down! I've never had any intention of teaching Winter anything like what happened last night!"

"Well, somebody did! I've known Cinder ever since Winter was ten, and neither of them would ever hurt each other like that!"

General Ironwood moved his Scroll away from his ear and rubbed his eyes, attempting to relieve the stress that had come before Willow Schnee called him personally. All night long, ever since Winter was escorted out of Amity Colosseum, people like Willow had gained a disdain for both him and Winter. They were angry at both of them for the unnecessary attack on Cinder and Flora. Ever since then, General Ironwood had one thing to say, and now he was going to let Winter's mother hear it.

"Winter is a good student," General Ironwood said as he returned to his call. "The staff at Beacon and Atlas are fully aware that she would never lash out the way she did... under normal circumstances. What I believe and hope this to be is nothing more than the result of stress and adrenaline. When you're out on the battlefield, your judgment can become clouded in an instant. Sometimes you see things that simply aren't there." Ironwood looked down and closed his eyes. "Even after the fight is past..."

Willow had heard a similar excuse before when she turned on the news that morning. And between what she saw and how upset Weiss was when she witnessed the attack, Willow was far from finished. "But it must have been an-!"

"That's enough!"

"..."

Willow remained silent on the other end of the call while Ironwood regained his bearings and spoke. "The sad truth is, whether it was an accident or an assault, it doesn't matter. The world saw Winter attack two innocent students. They've already drawn their own conclusions."

"I know," Willow finally said. "James, I don't care how you choose to handle the rest of the situation. All I want is for you to send Winter straight home. I need to hear what happened myself."

"Alright. That's what I'll do."

"...Good."

General Ironwood ended the call and turned around. He was in the presence of Ozpin and Glynda, who had simply watched in silence as their guest conducted his unexpected business with Willow Schnee.

"This is terrible," Professor Goodwitch said as she watched the General move closer to the desk.

"I meant what I said," Ironwood declared. "None of this is my doing."

Glynda rubbed her forehead. "You think we don't know that? You don't need to protect your public image around us, James."

"Agreed," Ozpin said calmly. "It appears Ms. Schnee's actions were of her own volition. And from what you said when you entered, she seems to know the same thing."

Ironwood slowly nodded. "Winter's hysterical, but she's being cooperative and honest. She saw the footage, and remembers everything. Her teammate as well."

"Yes, Ms. Polendina. It must have come as a shock to her. Tell me, James, what exactly did she tell you?"

"..."

Last night

"Penny, I know this is a difficult time," Ironwood said as he looked down at the discomforted young girl. "So I'll try to keep this brief. All I want is for you to describe what happened."

"..."

Ironwood could tell by Penny's silent demeanor and apparent inability to look at him that this was going to be a little more difficult.

"Penny?"

"..."

"Penny, are you listening?"

This time, Penny slowly looked up. "Affirmative, sir," she said calmly while putting her hands behind her back. "One of my technician's extracted my video footage of the event."

"Yes, I've seen it. But I believe your first hand experience can prove a working theory; that Winter experienced a burst of stress and adrenaline. Is there any way you could have detected that?"

"A... Affirmative." Penny straightened her posture as she spoke her mind. "Winter's behavior before the match indicated a culmination of stress and anger."

"I see. You were created with thermal lenses in your eyes, correct?"

"Yes, sir." Penny's eyes changed from a light green to a light orange. General Ironwood couldn't see it, but Penny was examining his body temperature while staring at him.

"Were you able to detect any excessive heat when Winter attacked the students?" Ironwood asked.

"I was not. But the recording that was extracted can be technically played back in thermal vision. If you have the proper technician and-or medical personnel examine it, they may be able to confirm your theory."

"Very well." Ironwood backed away from Penny. "You've had a long night, and you'll have a longer one tomorrow."

"Sir?" Penny asked.

"Professor Port and Doctor Oobleck also examined the footage," Ironwood explained. "They thought you'd like to know that you were the first to break Cinder's Aura, you were faster by a few milliseconds."

Penny soon realized that her primary purpose in the Vytal Festival was even closer. If she won the tournament, General Ironwood could explain how she could better help the people of Remnant. "That's... wonderful news!" she said.

"I know," Ironwood said with a smile. "It seems you'll be progressing to the singles round. But I'd like to hear your choice in the matter."

Penny's smile faded. "Excuse me?"

Ironwood stopped smiling as he explained what he meant. "The people of Remnant are beginning to draw their own conclusions about Winter's actions. While I hope to prove it was an accident, I don't know if it will ease the tension. And I highly doubt the only remaining Atlesian fighting in the singles rounds will clear the air."

"You... believe I should forfeit?" Penny asked. "You may be correct. But... the tournament was meant to... show what I can do."

"I know, I know. But this changes things. If you don't agree, we can stay the course. But trust me; no one will fault you if you decide not to compete."

"I... do not know. Nobody may be happy, but... I have come too far to stop now."

"Take some time to think it over. I know you'll make the right choice."

Present

"...Penny said she knew Winter was angry," said General Ironwood. "And that she knew Winter was stressed prior to her battle. Like I said, it may be a result of stress."

"What about the idea to back out of the tournament?" Glynda asked.

"She's still thinking it over. I just hope whatever choice she makes will be the first step to keeping the peace."

"Will you be seeing her again soon, James?" Ozpin asked calmly.

"Yes, right before the singles round begins."

Ozpin's chair moved to look out the window. "Then please, give Ms. Polendina my regards. And some friendly advice; remember what this festival stands for."

"What it stands for?" Ironwood asked.

"The Great War was one of mankind's greatest mistakes. We choose to remember the peace and friendship we have gained, instead of all we have lost and taken. We took the first step to rectify that mistake by creating this festival, for every Kingdom to make amends for the damage they inflicted. Perhaps Ms. Polendina can do that for young Winter."

"...Perhaps."

Ozpin moved his chair back towards Irownood and Glynda. "In the meantime, we should focus on the bigger problem at hand."

"The Grimm," said Glynda. "The negativity from last night is causing activity to skyrocket."

"My troops are doing the best they can to hold them back," said Ironwood. "But we need help. We need Huntsmen."

"I've sent the message out. And I'll be joining the help we've acquired." Glynda made her way to the elevator. "Besides... there's something I need to tell Djarin."

*BOOM*

*SLASH*

*BANG*

Those were the only sounds Glynda could hear when her airship landed outside of Vale. Just as she said before, a spike in Grimm activity had begun last night. And now, soldiers and Huntsmen were spread across the city's border, doing what they could. The skirmish had begun since morning, and refused to show any signs of stopping after three hours. All while the people were trying to get over what had happened last night.

And Glynda began to help her fellow Huntsmen and Huntresses by using her riding crop and Semblance to both kill Grimm and repair what they destroyed. Just as she killed a pack of Beowolves, Glynda witnessed an Alpha pounce towards her. And a black blade had just cut it in half, with its wielder landing at the side.

"You've gotten better with that, Djarin," Glynda said as she swung at another Grimm.

"I only use it when I need to," said the Mandalorian. He lowered the blade and pulled out his small blaster. "My guns haven't failed me before. And they're faster than a blade."

Glynda rolled her eyes. "Perhaps you're too slow."

Djarin lowered his pistol after he shot another Grimm. "Was that a joke?"

"It was. I'm attempting to clear the negativity."

Just as Glynda said that, a new figure had joined the fight with a large scythe. Qrow Branwen had jumped over his allies and cleaved a large Griffon in half. He chuckled as he turned back to his allies. "Yeah, good luck with that, Glynda," he said.

Glynda lowered her crop and looked around as the Atlas soldiers and other Huntsmen were dealing with what appeared to be stragglers. "Is that all that's left?" she asked.

"Right here, at least," Qrow said as his scythe transformed back into a long sword. "Some of the other Mandos were here earlier, they really packed a punch."

"I had the idea to call for help when I saw the news," said Djarin. "They sent at least ten, and that's why everything here is just black smoke."

"Even for Mandalorians, that's impressive."

"Tell that to the Atlesians who drove them off." Djarin looked to Glynda. "When the soldiers and droids got here, they 'insisted' to take care of the rest themselves. Now the other Mandalorians are eastward."

Glynda nodded in understanding. "I can have a talk with James if you like," she generously offered. "Make sure everyone here is treated with respect."

"I'd appreciate that. But everyone's drawing their own conclusions about last night. Mainly with Cinder's armor and Winter's attack."

"I have to admit, Cinder saw a very clever loophole in the system. Though I'm sure the rules have been changed now."

"..."

Glynda and Qrow immediately took the Mandalorian's silence as a sign of concern. "How is she?" Glynda asked. "I haven't had the chance to see her."

"Physically, she's doing fine," said Djarin. "But she's far from happy."

"Can you blame her?" Qrow asked. "What about her teammate?"

"Cinder said that Merri called her. They're going to Mistral to be with some distant relatives. Until they land, nobody can ask Flora what exactly happened."

"Winter's been talking to James," Glynda pointed out. "Apparently, she's hysterical. But she remembers everything and knows what she did."

"I don't want Cinder talking to Winter right now," Djarin said. "She agreed."

"Did she say anything else?"

"..."

Last night

Cinder had finally left Amity Colosseum with her father. The attack to the exposed part of her armor wasn't very serious, far less serious than what happened to Flora. Despite the medics protesting, she decided to take Djarin's offer to teleport her back to her room.

As soon as she was back in her own dorm room, Cinder slowly made her way to her bed. The movements weren't without pain, so Cinder had a hard time getting in bed.

"Try not to move too much," said Djarin, who moved her covers for her.

"Thanks," she said. "And, uh... thanks for... coming."

"You kidding? I wasn't going to miss the fight. Even after what happened."

Cinder frowned. "Yeah. I'm sorry, I shouldn't have been so angry."

"I'm sorry, too," the Mandalorian quickly said. "Sometimes... I guess I get carried away. And I just see things that aren't there."

"...That's not completely true." Cinder slowly sat up. "You were right, about what you said before. All of it."

"Did you... want to talk about it?" Djarin quickly realized that this was the last thing he should be asking. "Actually, we can talk when you're feeling better."

"No, it's fine," Cinder insisted. "It's now or never."

"Take your time."

Cinder decided to take the offer and began to explain everything. How what she learned from her mother had sent her down a spiral of fear and self-loathing. And how she hoped using her armor would make everyone see the Mandalorians in a different light.

"I just... wanted to show how different we were," said Cinder. "That you and I aren't what everyone usually makes Mandalorians out to be." Cinder shifted to her side. "But I could hear the Atlesians, they didn't care. And now that I think about it... I don't think she changed either." Cinder dried her eyes. "Gods, I was so childish."

"...You were optimistic," said Djarin. "Cinder... blind optimism rarely helps anyone, but no optimism means you can't do anything. And everyone here, student and teacher, knows you're a good person. Don't blame yourself for being who you are."

"How can I not?" Cinder asked as she turned around. "As soon as I learned how my birth-father died, I got scared. I lied, I pushed you away, and I screwed up! And I still don't know what to do!"

"What do you mean?"

"Dad, I was able to figure out who I was, just like I wanted to. But I also learned how bad Mandalorians can be. I don't like hurting people, but now I see I'm the minority. Don't you remember how Ironwood thought you were brainwashing me when I was a kid? Or when Glynda thought you were like Death Watch?"

"..."

"I get it now." Cinder quickly took off her necklace. "Where I see strength, everyone sees spite! Not just Atlas, but people all over the world! My mother knows people who hate the Mandalorians just as she does!"

"..."

"I just..." Cinder moved back down and began to cry. "How can I undo so much hate?"

"You don't have to-"

"Yes, I do." Cinder turned around once more, away from Djarin. "You're proud to be who you are, Dad. You wouldn't understand."

"..."

Djarin took the hint and decided now would be the best time to leave. "If you need anything, just call me," he said calmly.

"I will," Cinder replied without looking at him. "Thanks."

Present

"...Nothing important."

Glynda and Qrow looked at each other, sharing a sense of worry from Djarin's long time to answer. However, it seemed to be the perfect way for Glynda to bring up what she wanted to say to the Mandalorian.

"Djarin... did she say anything about her mother?" Glynda asked.

"That's... none of your concern," Djarin insisted as he turned away. He began to walk towards one place where Grimm were tearing more buildings and was about to teleport himself there.

"I think I may have made it my concern."

Djarin turned around, ready to shut down the conversation. "Can this wait until later?" he asked.

"I wish it could," Glynda said. "I know it's sensitive, but I think I found something serious. And I need to show you. Please."

Even though Glynda couldn't understand it, Qrow was able to see how sensitive this conversation was. "I'll, uh, get outta the way," he said as he ran off to join a group of Atlesian soldiers.

The Mandalorian wasn't in the mood to talk about Cinder's mother, not after all the unexpected trouble it caused. But he also knew how Glynda's stubborn nature was hard to change, how she sought to bring what her mind told her into reality. So with a heavy heart, Djarin made an offer.

"I don't want to talk about it," he said. "So... I can just listen."

"Very well," said Glynda, who took out her Scroll. "I would have shown you earlier, but I had to do more digging. And Ms. Schnee's attack was more important at the moment."

"You're losing me."

Glynda looked up. "Right, sorry." She cleared her throat and mentally readied herself to continue speaking. "Djarin... how sure are you that Cinder met her mother?"

The Mandalorian continued to stare at Glynda. "Is that relevant?"

"I believe it is." She quickly clicked a file on her Scroll and showed it to the Mandalorian. It was a picture of Cinder and Flora.

"What am I looking at?" Djarin asked.

"Results from our work," Glynda explained. "Do you remember when I was trying to get you to help me with creating matches for the tournament?" She continued her explanation without Djarin giving an acknowledgement of the event. "The program I was using detected an anomaly with Cinder and Flora."

"What kind of anomaly?"

"That their medical records had a match in Beacon's computer system. I quickly realized Flora was here because of her two sisters, that their records were identical. But Cinder was a different case."

The Mandalorian finally became invested in what Glynda had to offer. It wasn't as large as she was hoping, but Djarin was starting to take it seriously. "So what, Cinder's medical record matches someone else?" he asked. "Blood type, maybe?"

"A common blood type wouldn't give off this anomaly," Glynda explained. "This only happens when there's a perfect match. A relative match."

Djarin finally understood what it was that Glynda was trying to say. "Wait a minute. Are you saying Cinder's related to a Beacon Huntsman?"

"Not just any Huntsman." Glynda moved her finger across her Scroll. "According to the Beacon database, Cinder's a perfect match to this student." She showed him a picture of a young man with brown hair and amber eyes, someone who looked identical to Cinder. Not only that, but the Mandalorian recognized the name.

"Victor Embers?" he read out loud before looking back to Glynda. "Your teammate?"

Glynda nodded. "I was surprised myself," she solemnly confessed. "We still keep deceased Huntsmen and Huntresses in the database system. Ozpin thought it was unfair if their identification number was given to another student. That they deserved to be remembered for fighting the Grimm. I agree, of course, and it seemed his idea paid off."

"You can say that again." Djarin looked back to the picture. "But are you sure this is right? Maybe there was a mistake."

"Oh, believe me, I spent a half hour trying to see if there was a mistake," the professor insisted. "But no, this is the real deal. My best guess is that they're distant cousins."

"Your best guess?" Djarin looked back to Glynda. "Did Beacon's database tell you anything else?"

"No, just that they're related. But given my ties with Victor, I couldn't let this go. Yesterday and earlier today, I was able to find out more about the Embers family. My position as a Huntress and Professor at Beacon made that easy."

"I'll bet."

"Yes, well... here's why I thought this was all important." Glynda looked down at her Scroll again, moving her finger left and right. "According to every record I found, the Embers family is mostly located in Mistral."

"That's where Cinder's from. Before she moved to Atlas."

"Yes, and I was able to find files on every Embers... except Cinder." Glynda showed more files with pictures as proof of her claim. Each family member she found bore little to no resemblance to Cinder. "And yet all of them are accounted for. Living or dead."

"...All of them?"

"All of them."

Djarin began to see that something wasn't adding up. The lack of a file on Cinder could be explained by the first orphanage that burned down. However, the story of her mother knowing that she existed and doing nothing about it when she was lost didn't make sense.

"Glynda... did you find the latest member of the Embers family?" Djarin asked. "Specifically, anyone's recent daughter?"

"I did," Glynda replied. "That was the first thing I looked at when trying to find anything about Cinder, and all I found for the youngest girl in their family is one Jennifer Embers, a twenty year-old."

"Where is she now?"

"In Argus. She just started working as a technician for their relay tower."

Djarin held out his hand. "May I-?" Glynda handed him the Scroll without hesitation, leaving the Mandalorian to look at the file Glynda had found. After glancing through the other files, he could confirm that Jennifer was indeed the youngest female member of the Embers family-tree. During this search, Djarin found out something else; there was absolutely no mention of a woman named 'Sandie Collins.'

Glynda had noticed that Djarin was staring at the screen longer than she expected. She was fairly certain he was done looking at the files. "Djarin, are you alright?" she asked.

"...No," Djarin replied. He quickly pulled out his pistol and fired it behind Glynda.

*BANG*

Glynda ear rang as she turned to see a Beowolf behind her turning to ash. Djarin, without apologizing, patiently waited for Glynda's ringing to stop. Once it did, he made a demand.

"Go back to wherever you found those files," he said. "See if you can find anything on a woman named 'Sandie Collins.' Tell me her current address."

"What?" Glynda asked as she let go of her ear. "Now? I'm not sure if you noticed, but I came here to help with the Grimm."

Djarin quickly turned around and fired three blasts into another Beowolf. "I'll be fine. Do it."

"..."

Glynda instantly regretted showing the Mandalorian what she found. She knew he was having the same idea, that the woman Cinder met may have been an imposter. Glynda didn't know why someone would do this, but the idea of Cinder being a Maiden came to mind. Since she didn't need anyone to tell her how important this was, she decided to do as she was told.

Dusk had fallen on Beacon Academy, and Cinder decided to leave her room to walk around the campus. She knew the finals round of the Vytal Festival Tournament would begin later, but she decided that she had her fill of fighting for one night. And with Penny being declared the winner of the fight, Cinder could use the free time to think back on everything.

Unfortunately, everyone she walked past had something to say.

"You doing okay, Cinder?"

"You should've won."

"Totally uncalled for."

"Man, poor Cinder."

"Let us know if you need anything."

Cinder decided to do her thinking in the library, where she had the most privacy. After she sat at an isolated desk, the young Maiden thought back on what she told her father. She was surprised nobody mentioned her armor while she walked around, but maybe it was only Atlas that felt like it was a cheat.

Even still, Cinder knew that she was right about it all. She had no chance of showing the world that she wasn't like the Mandalorians that chose to hurt people. The fact that hurt the most was how she could create just about anything as a Maiden, but she couldn't create a good example for the world.

She wished she had what her father had; he was used to the hate, to the assumptions everyone made about him. If he was in Sandie's apartment with her, he wouldn't have questioned himself at all. He would still be strong, he would still be proud to be a Mandalorian, but more importantly... he would still be her father.

And Cinder had done a poor job as a daughter lately.

"Hey, you're alive!"

Cinder's brooding ceased when she heard a familiar voice to her left. A young girl was running up to her, one with blonde hair and a smile on her face. Cinder recognized her as one of her acquaintances at Beacon Academy, someone she didn't have the chance to talk to in a while.

"Hey, Lily," Cinder said with a forced smile. "Yeah, I'm alive. And kicking."

Lilith Gelb's smile disappeared. "How are you feeling?" she asked. "I mean, does it hurt anywhere?"

Cinder rubbed the spot on her back where Winter attacked. "My back's fine. It only hurts when I bend down."

"Oh, okay." Lilith immediately sat down next to Cinder. "And everything else? How's Flora?"

"Her sisters rushed her to Mistral to be with some relatives. That was the last thing Merri told me, and I haven't heard from them since."

"Oh, Gods. That's terrible."

Cinder simply nodded as she thought back to what everyone had told her. Beacon students she passed while walking to the library expressed their sympathies while saying what Winter did was uncalled for. She agreed and she was still extremely angry at Winter, angry enough to still ignore her calls.

*BUZZ*

*BUZZ*

Cinder looked at her Scroll and saw yet again another call from Winter. She ignored the call and looked back to Lilith. "Sorry, what were you saying?" she asked politely.

"Oh, nothing," Lilith replied. "I don't mean to pry, but was that Winter?"

Cinder sighed once again. "Yeah. I don't know, I'm sure she wants to apologize or explain everything. But this is just too much right now. I mean, stress and anger are one thing, but can it really cause someone to willingly attack someone else like that?"

"I'm trying to figure that out too."

Cinder looked back to Lilith, who was rubbing her hands together while looking down at the table. "What do you mean?" she asked.

"Listen, Cinder... this might sound weird, but I know you and Winter are friends," Lilith began. "I was actually wondering if... you'd let me talk to Winter?"

"What? Why?"

"I saw the fight last night, and was wondering if... No, forget it." Lilith got up from her seat. "It's stupid, don't worry about it."

She began to walk away from the table, but Cinder stopped her by touching her arm. "Wait, it's not stu-"

"Don't touch me!"

Lilith quickly recoiled from Cinder's touch, leaving both girls surprised and feeing awkward at the situation. Cinder was stunned into silence, leaving Lilith to be the one to talk. "Sorry," she sincerely said. "I'm just... trying to be careful."

"Careful?" Cinder asked. "Lily, are you okay?"

Lilith rubbed a hand through her hair. "I don't know. Something... really weird happened to me recently."

Yesterday

"Look at them all. They think they're so cool."

"They kinda are cool. Their match was over in less than two minutes."

Lilith and her team were currently sitting in Beacon's amphitheater, watching a victorious team train for the doubles round of the tournament. Lilith's team had won as well, but just barely. Lilith and her teammate Andrea had been eliminated in the first minute of the match. Andrea was one of the students abducted from Beacon by the Saxon Clan, and she was still recovering from her injuries there. Lilith, however, was overconfident and oblivious to a shot hitting her back.

"Come on, girls," said their team leader, Max Bolt. "So you two got eliminated. It's not the end of the world."

"Easy for you to say," Lilith argued. "You're going to the doubles round with Garret."

"Still. It's just a tournament, not life or death. Besides, you'll have a better chance to enjoy the rest of the festival. Garret and I are stuck here training."

"I guess, but playing carnival games and winning stuffed animals isn't really my thing."

"Come on, there's gotta be something there you can find. I heard a couple of new stands are going in. Maybe you and Andrea can win us something before the doubles round."

Lilith chuckled as she sat up. "You'll get your prize when we get our team into the singles round."

"Deal." Max looked over to Andrea. "You want in, Andrea?"

"Nah," she said as she stood up and looked behind Lilith. "I don't think I wanna be a third wheel for Lily." She pointed behind her teammate, specifically at a red-haired girl with green eyes. "I've been watching her glance at you ever since we came in here."

Lilith got a good look at the girl, who quickly looked away when she knew she was being watched. Lilith got the idea and turned back to Andrea. "What would I do without you?" she asked with a smirk. "Alright." She flipped her hair and turned around. "Watch and learn."

"Yeah, right," Max said, earning a slight nudge from Andrea.

"She's serious," she said. "She's got so many plays, she could fill out a whole book. I figured you of all people would wanna see what she's got in store."

"Plays?" Max quickly had an idea. "Oh, wait. Does that have to do with the notebook I accidentally grabbed?"

"That's the playbook!" Andrea laughed when she fell back in her seat. "Oh, my God! The look on your stupid face!"

Max laughed as well. "You know, I think I did see a few things in there that would work. But really, can it help with any girl?"

"How do you think I met Lily?"

"..."

Andrea slightly hit her team leader's arm and laughed. "Just kidding! But really, I've seen her work miracles. Like right now." Max turned to see Lilith approach a part of the amphitheater with the girl she just met. They were currently talking with one of the boys who was sparring, a young brown-haired man with red eyes and a silver jacket. "Yeah, I know this one. She's gonna spar with that girl's teammate and throw the match."

"Throw the match?" Max asked. "Why would she do that?"

"She just made a bet with the girl, see who'll buy them next meal," Andrea explained. "When Lily loses, she'll buy. And who can turn down a free meal?"

"...You're kidding."

Andrea pointed to the sparring students. "Watch."

Max obeyed and silently began to observe the sparring duel between Lilith and the teammate of her soon-to-be date. Max could tell that she was slightly holding back, since she wasn't using her weapons and aiming strictly for the torso, which was well protected. And she blocked a couple of punches from her opponent, but didn't protect herself from punches to her own torso.

"Okay, I see where this is going," said Max.

"It'll all be over soon," Andrea promised.

Suddenly, the lights around the large room began to flicker. The flickering became noticeable when the lights above Max and Andrea almost went out. Their first instinct was to look to the light switches by the door. Max saw that they were set between the "On" and "Off" positions. Max slowly moved to the switches and moved them upright, lifting the brief darkness from the practice arena. "Guess someone hit them by accident," he said as he moved back to the sparring match.

Andrea looked closely at her teammate and saw her get back up. "Huh, I thought she was gonna call it," she said. "Guess she wants to make it look real."

Lilith was doing a good job at that. She had stopped aiming for the torso and gone for her opponent's head and legs. In fact, she was moving at a remarkable speed with each strike. Her opponent had found it harder to block each strike, so he dodged when he could. And when he returned the strikes, Lilith seemed to be unaffected. And she also seemed to be angry.

"Jeez," Max said in awe. "She really wants to win."

"What the heck is she doing?" Andrea asked. "I thought she was gonna lose the match."

Lilith suddenly grabbed her opponent's fist and attacked him with a head-butt. The boy fell to the ground and began to engage his Aura. This didn't stop Lilith, who landed on top of him and began punch his face.

"Whoa!" Max shouted. "Where'd that come from?!"

"She's not stopping!" Andrea screamed as she ran over to her teammate. "Lily! Lily, stop!" Max had caught on and was sharing the same feeling that Andrea had. He also ran over and grabbed Lilith's arm, who struggled in the grip. Andrea was doing the same with her other arm, also having trouble in restraining her teammate. "Lily, get off him!"

Max felt shivers go down his spine when he could hear what sounded like his own teammate growling at him. "Lily, chill out!" he ordered. When she showed no signs of relenting, Max held her tight and jumped to the side, finally getting his teammate off the boy she was sparring with.

Andrea saw that Lilith was under control, so she decided to help the boy off the ground. "Are you okay?" she asked.

"Man, what's her beef?!" the boy asked. "I thought she just wanted to spar!"

"So did we! I'm sorry, she's not normally like this!" Andrea turned to see Lilith on the ground with Max pinning her down. "Max, do something!"

"Lily, calm down!" Max ordered as he held Lily down. Again, she showed no signs of letting go of her anger. Max was beginning to understand that his words were having no effect on her. He had one idea, but he knew it might make things worse. Nevertheless, there seemed to be no other way of calming her down. "Sorry, Lil. This is for your own good." He then engaged his Aura and sent his fist flying into her face.

*BAM*

Present

"And the more I think about it, the more it sounds like what happened to Winter."

Cinder sat in silence as Lilith finished her story. And to say that the events were similar would be an understatement. Cinder remembered how angry Winter looked when she attacked her and Flora, how she looked like a deer in headlights when she saw what she had done. Lilith's reaction sounded all too similar, and Cinder had the nagging feeling to investigate further.

"You just... didn't stop attacking that guy?" she finally asked. "Out of impulse?"

"I have no idea what came over me," Lilith insisted. "I remembered everything when I woke up, and I felt... compelled to hurt him. Thankfully, he wasn't too hurt."

"You said you were angry too?"

"A little, just before the sparring duel. I came close to my Aura falling in the red when I was in the teams match, so that was bothering me."

"But not enough to-"

"Not enough to make me wanna hurt someone! But that's what happened!" Lilith began to calm down. "It's been driving me crazy ever since it happened, so I was hoping Winter experienced the same thing. I just wanna know if it really was an accident, for her and me."

Cinder leaned back on her chair as she continued to analyze what her companion had said. "Maybe... Maybe it was just an accident," she said before looking back to Lilith. "That's all that happened to you?"

"Yeah," Lilith confirmed. "Actually... yes and no."

"Huh?"

Lilith looked around her immediate surroundings, seeing more students talking amongst themselves and paying no attention to her. So she turned back to Cinder. "That wasn't the only thing that happened," she said with a twinge of anxiety. "After I apologized to that guy, I decided to chill out in my room for the rest of the day. It was near the end of the day, so I got ready to take a shower. But then..." Lilith rolled up the sleeve to a spot that Cinder had nearly touched, revealing a large, chalk-white mark on her arm. "I saw this."

Cinder looked closer and gasped. "What the hell is that?" she asked.

"I have no idea." Lilith rolled her sleeve back down. "I was going to see the nurse about it when I saw it wasn't going away, but then I saw you first and got the idea."

Cinder looked away from Lilth's arm. "Does it hurt?"

"No, and that's even weirder. But it feels cold when you touch it."

"...Cold?"

"Yeah. I don't know if it's contagious, so I don't want to take any chances. That's why I didn't want you touching me." Lilith immediately stood up from the table. "But yeah, I should have the nurse check it out now. And forget about talking to Winter for me, what I said was stupid. I'll see you later."

"O-Okay. See ya."

Cinder watched Lilith walk away, where both girls were left to their own devices. While she wasn't sure what the nurse could do for Lilith, Cinder found herself more concerned with everything she just heard and saw. The undeniable similarities between Winter's and Lilith's incidents were too closely related to be called a coincidence. And if Lilith regretted doing it just as much as she sounded, then there was a possibility that Winter's attack was an accident.

But what Cinder was more focused on than that possibility was the white skin Lilith had shown. Not only did it look abnormal, but Cinder felt that it looked... familiar.

*BUZZ*

*BUZZ*

Cinder thoughts were interrupted once again. This time, it was the sound of her Scroll, which showed yet another call from Winter. Her tenacity and stubbornness were showing themselves again, and Cinder would almost respect these qualities if it wasn't about Winter's attack. She really didn't want to talk to her, but she knew one thing after talking to Lilith.

She had to.

So with a heavy heart, Cinder answered the call and put the Scroll to her ear. "Winter?" she asked calmly.

"Cinder!" said a voice on the other end, one that felt exhausted and relieved. "Listen, I know you're upset, but I have to talk to you!"

Cinder sighed as she rubbed her forehead. "Winter, listen-"

"Please, just hear me out! I am sorry! I am so sorry about the tournament!"

"Winter-"

"I know you must have heard General Ironwood saying it was stress and adrenaline, but that's still no excuse. I don't know how, or when-"

"Winter-"

"Please, let me finish! I promise, I'll find some way to make-"

"WINTER!" Cinder screamed as she pounded her fist on the table she was sitting at. When she heard silence on the other end, Cinder took the opportunity to talk. "We need to talk, about all of it. But this needs to be on my terms. And all I want is for you to sit and listen."

"...Understood," Winter replied on the other end.

"Okay." Cinder cleared her throat before talking again. "My dad told me that General Ironwood talked to Penny. She said she knew you were angry when you regained consciousness."

"..."

"Is that true?"

"Cinder... I was stupid, I had this stupid ego after meeting Admiral-"

"I don't care about that," Cinder said. "Is what Penny said true?"

"...Yes, it is."

"Did you act out on this anger? Did you feel... compelled to attack me and Flora?"

"I did."

Cinder thought back on what Penny and Lilith had told her, which led her to ask another question. "How else did you feel?"

"I... I don't follow," Winter replied.

"Forget about emotion. Did you feel... cold? Exactly?"

"Why are you-?"

"Just... answer the question. Please."

"I... Yes, I did. I remember everything I did, and how I felt. Now that I think about it... I was cold. All over, actually."

Along with continuing to press her friend for answers, Cinder began to pray. Pray that she was wrong about the idea she had in her head.

"Winter, do you regret what you did?"

"Yes, I do! I promise, I will never hurt you again! General Ironwood told me I'm going home soon, and I'll be sure to take a hard look at myself, to see if I should still be a cadet. But if there's even the slightest chance I could hurt you or anyone again, I'll forget the whole thing, I promise."

"That... might not be an issue." Cinder took a deep breath before speaking again. "But Winter... there is one way I can believe you never meant to hurt me or Flora."

"Of course. Anything."

"This will sound... weird. But-"

"Cinder, I said anything."

"Okay." Cinder took another deep breath, but her nerves refused to disappear. "Winter... I think there may be something wrong with you," she began. "Something that you don't even know yourself."

"I have a temper, you're right," said Winter. "I think Father may have rubbed off on me after all."

"No, forget that. Where are you right now?"

"In one of the dorms at Beacon. It's one of a few reserved for Atlas students."

"Is there a mirror in there?"

"Yes. Why?"

"Go look in it."

"..."

"Winter?"

"I'm looking," Winter replied. "Why am I doing this?"

"To find out something." Cinder's hand began to shake, but she ignored it. "What do you see?"

"Myself."

"...Okay, let me rephrase that. Do you see anything sticking out? Something different about yourself?"

"Like what? A scar?"

"Something like that, that you haven't seen on yourself before. Do you see it?"

"...No."

Cinder sighed once again. "Forget your face," she ordered. "Look on your arms, your legs, your back. Tell me if-"

"Cinder, what are you saying?" Winter asked. "I do want to make amends, but this... I don't see how this is helping."

"Look, l get it. But this is important, and you owe me this." Cinder realized how this made her sound, but she didn't care. One way or another, she was going to see if she was right.

"...Okay," Winter relented. "Where do I... need to look?"

"Start with your arms. Look for something you didn't notice before."

"I'm looking. But can you at least tell me what this is all-?"

Cinder was stunned with the sudden moment of silence. "...What this is all what, Winter?" she asked.

"..."

"Winter?" Cinder found her hand shaking even more as she stood up. "Winter, are you there?"

"I-I'm here," Winter replied. The short stutter made Cinder realize something was wrong. "Sorry, I just-"

"Did you see something?"

"Um... it's nothing. I can get it looked at and-"

"Winter, is there a white spot on your skin? Something as white as snow?"

"...How did you know that?"

"..."

The shaking for Cinder stopped, but her entire body became numb when Winter asked that question. The fear of the Gods had found its way into Cinder's heart as she felt herself sitting down, and there wasn't anything on Remnant that could calm her down.

"Cinder, how did you know that?" Winter asked again. "I... You're right, okay? Yes, there's a... a white spot on my arm. Do you know what it is?"

Cinder found her voice when Winter asked that question. "I have to go," she said.

"What? But, Cinder-"

*BEEP*

Cinder ended the call and threw her Scroll across the table. Panic found its way throughout her body and caused her to breathe heavily. Now she knew that something was very wrong, and not just with Winter. Someone else had experienced the same thing as her, and whatever it was, it was spreading.

And any one of Beacon's residents could be next.

Cinder was able to answer some of her questions, to verify that Winter and Lilith were innocent. But the answers had left more questions. As she began to calm down, Cinder tried to ask these questions to herself one at a time.

What was going on?

Why were Lilith and Winter affected by it?

Could it happen to her as well?

Why did the chalk-white skin look so familiar?

Cinder knew she didn't have all the answers, but she was determined to answer the questions. The first one she felt confident in was with the familiarity of the skin.

"Think, Cinder," she said to herself as she closed her eyes and wiped nervous sweat off her brow. "Something made Lily and Winter hurt people. It left some kind of... calling card? How? How is that-No, no, stop." Cinder stood up, picked up her Scroll, and began to walk outside. "Calm down, and think. I saw that thing before, I know I did. But where?"

Her mind drew a blank as she continued to walk, but she suddenly had an idea. Since she had spent so much of her time with her father at Beacon, maybe he could recognize what she was talking about and help her. So she quickly ran to the faculty dorms, ran up the stairs, and knocked on the Mandalorian's door.

"Dad?" she called out as she stopped knocking. "Dad, are you in there?"

There was no answer.

Cinder used her Scroll to unlock the door, which she always did when she lived in the room with him, and opened it. Suddenly, as she stared into the room, Cinder had the strangest sense of déjà vu. A gut feeling was telling her that the answer to her question was somewhere in the room. But she hadn't been here since she and Djarin found a dead body on the floor.

"Did you burn yourself?"

"No. He's... cold."

Relieving the memory made Cinder's body grow numb once again. She dropped her Scroll as she looked onto the spot where they found the dead body.

The pale dead body.

The chalk-white dead body.

"He's... cold."

"But it feels cold when you touch it."

"Now that I think about it... I was cold."

When all the pieces had finally come together, Cinder's thoughts returned to the present.

"Oh, my Gods."

Cinder picked up her Scroll and quickly ran away. She frantically dialed a number and put the Scroll to her ear. "Cinder?" a voice asked on the other end.

"Dad!" Cinder screamed as she ran down a flight of stairs. "Where are you?"

"Where am I?" Djarin asked. He found himself looking around his environment, which was a suburban part of the city. He continued to walk down the sidewalk as he continued his call. "I'm in Vale, with Qrow. Why?"

"Vale?" Cinder asked on the other end of the call. "Are you still trying to clear out the Grimm?"

"It's under control, more or less. I'm actually doing something else, something you need to-"

"No, listen to me! We're in trouble! Big trouble!"

"Trouble?" Djarin stopped in his tracks. "What kind of trouble?"

"What'd ya say?" Qrow asked as he looked back to the Mandalorian. But Djarin put his hand up to make Qrow stop talking so he could listen to Cinder.

"I know why Winter attacked me, why she attacked Flora!" Cinder replied. "It's the Chill! The one you tried to find when I was at Mountain Glenn! It's back!"

"The Chill?" Djarin asked. He knew what Cinder was talking about, he remembered how their search went cold, but all the focus on arresting the Saxons at Mountain Glenn took priority. It was later proven that they were using the Chill to kidnap students and recruit them into their clan. Everyone assumed the Chill had fled when the plan was foiled, but Cinder's story said otherwise. "Are you sure?"

"Yes!" Cinder answered. "It possessed Winter to make her attack me, and started to turn her skin white before it left! The same thing happened to Lily, she did exactly what Winter did and saw the same thing!"

"This makes no sense." Djarin leaned against a wall as he continued his conversation. "Why would it do that?"

"That doesn't matter! Everyone at Amity is in danger! I need your help!"

"I'm on my way." Djarin ended the call and turned back to Qrow. "We need to go back."

"To Beacon?" Qrow asked. "What's going on?"

"Cinder thinks the Chill we couldn't find is still there. She thinks it's possessing students to make them hurt each other."

"The Chill?" Qrow began to see how bad that was. "But... if it can make students hurt each other-"

"It won't be long before it makes students kill each other." Djarin turned to a TV in a window, which was showing a countdown to the beginning of the Vytal Festival Tournament's singles round. "And on live television." The Mandalorian stuck out his hand. "Come on, my Aura can still take the two of us back to Beacon."

"But the building's right there," Qrow said as he pointed behind the Mandalorian. "We came all this way."

"We can worry about that later. Cinder needs help."

Qrow began to move his hand to take Djarin's, ready to teleport back to Beacon and find the Chill. Suddenly, another idea came to mind; one that made him move his hand back.

"No, you go back," Qrow ordered. "I'll do what we came here to do."

"But Qrow-!"

"Just hear me out, Mando! My Semblance might have made us unlucky when we first looked for that thing. If we do that now, my Semblance might act up. This is different, it won't matter if my Semblance does its thing." He began to walk away from the Mandalorian. "I'll come to Beacon as soon as I can, just trust me."

Djarin took a few seconds to think about the idea. While he doubted Qrow's Semblance would affect the hunt for the Chill, he saw that this could be a way to kill two birds with one stone.

"Alright," the Mandalorian relented. "But be back soon. We have no idea where this thing is."

"Then you better get going," Qrow said as he began to walk away. He couldn't see it, but Djarin had used his Semblance to go back to Beacon. Qrow smiled as he made his way to the building, now that he was free to do things his own way.

The truth behind his desire to go alone wasn't entirely because of his Semblance; Qrow Branwen felt personally motivated to go on with his mission. Not for himself, but for a young girl he cared about, who had just been wronged without even knowing it. But how could she know it? The target Qrow was looking for probably played people older than her for a living, but that time had ended now.

She couldn't hear it, but Qrow promised Cinder that she would know the truth about everything.

While they were continuing to hold the line against the Grimm, the Mandalorian had explained to Qrow what Glynda had discovered. It took time, but Glynda's deeper search through the Embers' files had proven fruitful in an unexpected way. Just as Djarin expected, Sandie Collins wasn't a name listed in the files. However, she was able to find that she indeed existed, at least in the Vale hospital records. The file even had an address, one that the Mandalorian was dead-set on "visiting."

Qrow volunteered to join his friend, to keep an eye on him. After all, keeping tabs on people was what Qrow was good at, whether it was as a bird or himself. And he was sharing Djarin's feelings towards this mystery woman. It was clear that someone was lying about Cinder's parents, whether it was her or someone who had access to medical records. It was possible that the perpetrator could be both, but there were still unanswered questions. And Qrow was determined to seek out those answers when he entered an apartment complex and knocked on the door of room 2A.

And sure enough, a woman matching the photo Qrow saw had answered it. "Can I help you?" she asked calmly.

"Yeah," Qrow bitterly replied. "You Sandie Collins?"

"Um... yes. And you are?"

Qrow quickly took out his Scroll and showed his Huntsman license. "A licensed Huntsman, here to talk about Cinder."

"Cinder?" Ms. Collins' confusion disappeared as she opened the door all the way. "Oh, I see. I have to admit, I was expecting the Mandalorian."

"Mando? Wait, you've been expecting him?" Qrow suddenly became angry. "So you've been messing with two people I know."

Sandie moved aside. "I understand how you feel. Come in, I can explain everything."

Cinder's warning had reached the right ears. As soon as Djarin returned to Beacon, they talked to Ozpin, Glynda, and General Ironwood. The first thing they did when they listened to Cinder was call Winter, who reluctantly showed her extraordinary mark to the adults and her friend.

"You were right, Cinder," said the Mandalorian. "This is just like the student we found together."

"By the Gods," Glynda whispered. "How could we have been so careless?"

"It seems these Saxons are attempting to continue their fight," said Ozpin. "Truly despicable."

"But how could this happen?" Ironwood asked. "The arena is protected by a Hard-Light shield. There's no room for an ant to enter the fighting grounds, let alone a Grimm!"

Before anyone could provide a working theory, the sound of a clearing throat caused everyone in the room to look at Winter. "Forgive my boldness, but I have no idea what you're talking about and how this is relevant to me," she said firmly. "General Ironwood, with all due respect, I'd like to know what you're talking about."

Ironwood straightened his collar. "Schnee, we can discuss this aboard my-"

"No, General," said Cinder, who moved closer to Winter. "She can know now." The young girl turned back to her friend. "Winter, I was wrong to be angry at you. I'm sorry. But you deserve to know that you've been set up."

"Set up? How?"

"Before the Vytal Festival began... a group of Mandalorians called the Saxon Clan infiltrated Beacon Academy. We don't know how, but they managed to control a Grimm called a Chill. They used it to lure unsuspecting students to them, to reinforce their ranks."

Winter's jaw dropped with each word Cinder said. Once she was able to recompose herself, she turned to the second person in the room she trusted. "Sir... is this true?" she asked.

"I'm afraid so, Winter," said Ironwood. "We came to Beacon early, we sent the AK-200s, all in order to help track the Grimm down. Once we found the Saxons, we never saw the Chill again. We thought it was gone... until now."

"My Gods." Winter looked at everyone in the room. "But why me? Why did it come to me?"

"We think it's acting on its own," said the Mandalorian. "It may have been drawn to your negativity."

"Or she was set up in more than one way," said Glynda. "Didn't we suggest the idea of a spy at Beacon? Someone who helped these Mandalorians come on the grounds and take students away?"

"We have, indeed," said Ozpin. "This may be related to how the Chill slipped past the shield. But all you need to know, Ms. Schnee, is that we're going to find it before it can hurt anyone else."

Winter nodded. She was happy that her name had been cleared and that she was innocent. But she would feel better by correcting her error of letting her emotions control her and fight with honor and dignity once more. So, she looked back to General Ironwood. "Sir, permission requested to join your efforts."

"Permission denied," Ironwood declared. "The Chill possessed you once, it can do it again. And it won't be long before it can do worse than hurt another student."

"But, sir-!"

"Winter," Cinder said as she stood in her line of view. "You can help by getting yourself out of danger. Go home, and tell your family the truth. Then, we'll tell everyone what the Chill did."

"But you're like me, Cinder. You could be possessed by the Chill, too."

"I'd rather be possessed than watch my best friend be possessed twice. Who knows what could happen to someone possessed twice?"

"..."

Winter was having a hard time finding a flaw in Cinder's logic. While she wanted to help stop the Chill once and for all, she understood how a second attack on her could be worse than the first.

"Winter, I think it's time you leave."

Everyone looked back to General Ironwood. "We'll find the Chill, I promise you," he said. "And you can help by packing your things and going home."

"As soon as the Festival is over, we'll be working day and night to clear your name," said Ozpin.

"We can start with Lilith Gelb," said the Mandalorian. "Cinder told me she was possessed before you, Winter. She can help."

"But first, we need to find this Chill," said General Ironwood. "I have an idea, but we need to make sure nobody is at Amity Colosseum." He took out his Scroll and pressed a few keys. "I'll make an excuse, say that we need to do emergency repairs." As soon as he raised the device to his ear, he just as quickly removed it. "But... the Chill won't have anyone to try and attack." He turned around. "If we evacuate the arena..."

"There's nothing to stop it from leaving with the crowd," said Cinder. "But... we can't use hundreds of people as bait." She turned to everyone in the room before landing her eyes on the Mandalorian. "...Can we?"

"We may not have a choice," said Djarin. "It slipped past us when we evacuated Beacon before, it can do that again."

"That is, if it doesn't know we're on to it," said General Ironwood. "Alright, I'll say the arena itself needs to be fixed, before the finals round can begin." He then put his Scroll to his ear as he moved to the side of the room.

"Glynda, you should go to Amity," said Ozpin. "I will stay behind in case the Chill decides to come back to Beacon."

"I'll tell the soldiers to keep an eye out for anything suspicious," Glynda replied. "In case that's the backup plan this thing has in its so-called 'mind.'"

"I'm going with you," said the Mandalorian. "I'll get my rifle and meet you at the Colosseum."

"I'll go with you, too," said Cinder.

"Perfect, thank you." Ironwood put his Scroll away and looked back to everyone. "Barty and Peter got the message. The finals round is being put on hold. I'll join you all too, but I'd like to take Winter back to my ship."

"I'm ready, sir," said Winter. "I don't have much to pack."

"Then let's be on our way."

General Ironwood led Winter back to the elevator, who waved goodbye to Cinder. The young girl smiled and returned the wave, happy to have cleared both the air and Winter's name. Once the elevator closed, she turned back to everyone else.

"We better get started."

"And you believe there is a party at Beacon responsible for this?"

"I have no doubt. I can't do anything about it when I'm searching for the Chill. I need your help, Admiral."

General Ironwood knew he would be taking a risk by entrusting the truth about Winter prematurely, that it would be better to wait until the Chill wouldn't be able to interfere any further. But the idea of someone else picking up where it left off was just as worse, and something that Ironwood knew could be stopped by one man: Thrawn.

"Leave it to me, General," Thrawn proudly declared. He then turned to the young girl beside the General. "And what of Cadet Schnee?"

"She's on her way home now. One of my pilots is preparing my personal ship."

"Will that be right away?"

"It shouldn't take longer than five minutes. Why?"

"I'd like to have a final word with her." Thrawn turned to Winter. "With your permission, of course."

Winter looked back to General Ironwood, who didn't take long to think of a response. "Permission granted, Admiral," he said. "Schnee, I expect you to be on my ship as soon as the green light for takeoff is given."

"Of course, sir," Winter replied. "Understood."

Ironwood nodded at both Winter and Thrawn as he hastily left the Admiral's office. Winter didn't know what to do other than stand at attention for her superior.

"At ease," Thrawn replied. "Please, sit down." Winter sat down at the chair in front of Thrawn's desk, where he had just sat down. "I hope you understand that I'd like to make the most of our limited time, cadet. And I'd like for you to help me."

"I will, sir," Winter replied. "When I'm home, I'll be sure to stay out of sight until my name is cleared."

"A wise decision, given how the Atlas Eye will want to do whatever they can to get their story. However, I believe there is still potential in you, Winter. And your current situation."

"With all due respect, Admiral... I've told General Ironwood everything I remember that night. And the events preceding the fight."

Thrawn leaned back in his seat. "Everything you can remember," he slowly repeated. "What if there's more you can remember?"

"...Sir?"

Thrawn placed his palms together and moved forward. "I believe there are still clues about what happened at Amity, Cadet Schnee. I have already seen the footage, and I have heard from everyone. Everyone... except you."

"I remember everything, sir," Winter stated. "And I told General Ironwood everything I could."

"I am aware," Thrawn said calmly. "But now, I believe I can help you remember more, make you say more than you could have. And with our limited time, I'd like to conduct what's known as a cognitive interview."

"A... cognitive interview?"

"Correct." Thrawn lifted himself with ease from the chair. "The goal of this kind of interview is to revisit memories, examine details previously missed. The process is very brief and very simple, and yet the results are extraordinary."

"You think there's more to my story, Admiral?"

"I believe you may have been the only one to witness the Chill enter the arena, break its defenses and latch itself onto you." Thrawn walked closer to Winter. "And if there's anyone who can go through this terrible experience once again and persevere, I believe it is you, Winter."

The words awoke Winter's determination and sense of duty to the Atlas military, which led her to accepting the Admiral's offer. "How can I help?" she bluntly asked as she prepared herself for whatever came her way.

"Close your eyes," Thrawn ordered. Winter obeyed without hesitation, leaving Thrawn to conduct his business. "Take me back to that night, Winter. Tell me the first thing you can see."

Winter obeyed once again and began to remember where she was when she arrived at Amity Colosseum. "I'm with Penny and Flora Blair," she said. "Waiting by the entrance to the arena."

"Where is Cinder?"

"Behind us. With her armor. Waiting with us all."

"And you were alone when you were waiting, weren't you?"

"We were. Nobody else was with us." Winter continued to keep her eyes shut, even though the memory of her waiting with Cinder was as clear as day. "We're walking onto the arena."

"How did you feel?"

Winter concentrated on the question, trying to remember how she felt. Suddenly, her body became warmer with each step she pictured herself taking. "Hot," she said. "It's like my blood is boiling."

Thrawn remembered what he heard from the droid, how Winter was stressed and angry at both her fights. He had no doubt the emotions were present in her fight. And given the nature of the Chill, he had an idea. "When did you feel cold, Winter?" he asked. "Was this when you were fighting?"

"...No," Winter replied. Her cheek suddenly became cold. "I was cold... when I was on the ground."

"When you were eliminated?"

"When I regained consciousness. The metal of the arena, I'm on it."

"How else did you feel cold?"

"Just on my face." Winter suddenly felt cold all over her body. "But then... it traveled. It moved up my body."

"So it started at your legs," Thrawn noted. "Did your legs feel cold along with your face?"

Winter began to remember the exact details of the cold. "...No," she answered. "It started... at my chest. And worked its way up and down."

"Do you feel the urge to attack?"

"Yes. I was so... angry. Angry enough to..." Winter opened her eyes. "Admiral, I don't think there's anything at that part to help you."

The Admiral hummed as he backed away from Winter. "Remember further back," he ordered. "Did you see anything unordinary? A dark shape perhaps?"

"Should I have seen one?"

"Indeed. Although light cannot harm a Chill, one would think its presence would be quite noticeable. And if I recall, there were enough spotlights over the arena to extinguish any shadow."

Winter nodded as she closed her eyes and thought back to that night. "All I remember is the light you mentioned," she said. "All I saw were Penny and Cinder when I was on the ground-"

*BUZZ*

*BUZZ*

Winter felt her pocket shaking and a soft noise coming from it. She quickly reached inside and took out her Scroll. "The airship is ready," she said.

"You have my leave to go," said Thrawn. Winter stood up and began to walk out. "Thank you for your services tonight, Winter. I hope you decide to provide your services to Atlas once more."

"..."

The Admiral couldn't see it, but Winter had just smiled for the first time all day. Prior to her discovery about the Chill, she believed that Thrawn's approval and attention got her in trouble in the first place. Now that idea had been proven false and she continued to be seen in a positive light in his eyes. This and the revival of her friendship with Cinder had just given her enough positivity to make Winter feel invulnerable against the Chill. And she was determined to keep it that way.

As he watched the cadet leave, Admiral Thrawn returned to his desk in careful contemplation. The cognitive interview yielded results as he expected, even though they raised more questions than answers. Winter's testimony and the video footage from the match seemed to confirm that the Chill was nowhere to be seen. And yet, its presence was undeniable, given what Ironwood told her.

So all the Grand Admiral could do was sit back and think. Think back on how Winter said the Chill took hold of her when she was on the ground regaining consciousness. With this information, Thrawn decided to watch the video one more time to see if there was anything he may have missed. He took out his Scroll and examined the footage of Winter on the ground. He then saw Flora Blair rise over her and the tie between Cinder and Penny being declared. That was when Winter attacked both Cinder and Flora.

"Hmm..."

Thrawn knew he missed something once again, so he played the video back. Once again, he saw Winter begin to gain consciousness. And once again, all four students moved as they did. He played the video again, which yielded the same result. He did it again, and saw the same thing again. One would think the Admiral was watching the video with an obsession, that he couldn't help himself but find clues that just weren't there.

But Thrawn wasn't gaining an obsession. He was gaining an idea. One he couldn't have gained without Winter.

Thrawn quickly closed the video and made a videocall. "Captain Pellaeon, has Cadet Schnee's ship left?"

"I just granted them permission, sir," said the brown haired man. "They're leaving as we speak."

"Excellent. As soon as they are out of radar, put all stations on high alert, including our ground teams."

"Admiral?"

"There is a traitor in our midst."

When Ironwood had reached the Colosseum, he learned that the plan seemed to be going smoothly. While Cinder, Glynda, and the Mandalorian were looking for the Chill, Professor Port and Doctor Oobleck were keeping the peace by announcing the final contestants of the Vytal Festival Tournament. They also displayed videos of their previous fights on every screen in the Colosseum, given the fact they had no idea how long it would take to find the Chill.

While that was happening, Glynda and Ironwood were keeping a close eye on the immediate arena, should the Chill reveal itself once more. Cinder and Djarin were beneath the arena itself, looking to see where and how the Chill could have travelled upwards to possess Winter. Djarin was using his thermal vision to search the area right where Winter should have been standing, careful to avoid the various wires and machines.

"See anything?" Cinder asked calmly.

"Nothing," the Mandalorian replied as he moved back from the specific spot. "The temperature here looks normal, no signs of freezing cold." He turned back to Cinder. "Did you call Ironwood?"

"I did. He and Professor Goodwitch don't see anything." Cinder looked back up at the arena floor. "Lily said the Chill attacked her at Beacon, in the practice arena. And then it attacked Winter here. Now that I think about it, does it seem likely it'll strike twice in the same spot?"

"Beacon is deserted for the most part. And Ozpin said the updated security system will make it easier to spot the Chill if it does go back. Right now, our best bet is Amity." Djarin turned around and walked away from the arena floor to search for any other places where the Chill could have entered. His next idea was to search each spot where different environments would be spawned.

Cinder followed him while looking back at the spot, just in case. "Listen, I know I shouldn't bring it up, but... do you think she's involved in any of this?" she asked. "A Grimm, the Saxons... it doesn't really feel like a coincidence."

"...Anything's possible," Djarin replied. "And based on what I learned from Dr. Polendina, people can't control Grimm."

"Dr. Polendina?"

Djarin turned around. "He once tried to control a pack of Beowolves, to make them stay away from cities and Kingdoms. I even rode a Beowolf to help him with it."

"Wait, really?" Cinder stopped walking as she pictured the Mandalorian riding a Beowolf of all things. "When was this?"

"The first day we met, actually. When you stowed away on my ship."

Cinder laughed at the memory. "Oh, yeah," she said. "You must've had fun with it."

"Not really. I fell off it a few times."

"It beats being stuck up in a tree because a Beowolf's at the bottom." Cinder and Djarin shared a laugh at the idea, given that was how Cinder encountered Grimm when she left the first Razor Crest. When the laughter stopped, Cinder asked a question. "A lotta things were different back then, huh?"

"No doubt about it," the Mandalorian replied as he started walking again. "I was just a bounty hunter, and you had started training with me and your powers. And I thought things couldn't get any bigger."

"Same here." Cinder frowned as she slightly turned her head, reflecting on her time as a child. "Do you ever miss it? How things were back then?"

Djarin looked back to Cinder once again, but made sure not to turn off his thermal vision. "You mean fighting off insurrectionists and bounty hunters? Right, that was the time of my life right there."

Cinder could detect the sarcasm easily. "No, not anything like that. I mean, sure it wasn't perfect. But... I don't know, things just seemed... simpler." Cinder's memories before coming to Beacon came with ease. "Travelling across the world, making friends here and there, getting stronger every day. Things just... have been getting out of hand lately."

"Change is a constant part of life, Cinder," the Mandalorian reminded her. "I mean, yes, I wish things could be easier. I have to admit... I miss Nevarro sometimes, even though I find the time to visit. I don't hunt bounties as much as I used to, and I wish I was doing that instead of hunting a Grimm that could possess me at any moment." Cinder quickly looked over her shoulder out of fear since she almost forgot the reason she was beneath Amity in the first place. "My point is that time changed for us. And we changed too, look at how far you and I made it. We're not the same people we used to be."

"Is it bad that I wish I was?" Cinder asked.

"Of course. You were the most troubled kid I ever met."

Cinder quickly looked back at the Mandalorian. "Hey!"

Djarin suddenly chuckled. "I'm kidding."

"..."

Djarin made the joke to try and lighten the mood Cinder was in, but he could see that she wasn't in a mood to laugh. He knew that what she said earlier was still on her mind, and that she needed some kind of sign to show that she could overcome whatever was thrown in her way. Then, Djarin had an idea.

"Cinder, I know you're frustrated about everything," he said. "Even though I believe you're mistaken about some things, I see where you're coming from about the rest."

The young Maiden looked back to Djarin. "Mistaken?" she repeated. "About what?"

"We can talk about that later. But listen; there might be a way for you to do what you want to do, to undo so much hate. When we stop Salem, we'll travel the world, visit Mandalorians and the Kingdoms."

"To do what?"

"Introduce their rightful ruler." Djarin reached for his belt and took out a piece of metal. Suddenly, the black blade of the Darksaber appeared. "When I first met the Tenau Clan, they told me I was the Darksaber's guardian, and nothing more. They wanted me to protect it until the true Mand'alor was found. And if there's one person I think should have it..." Djarin deactivated the blade and held the hilt to Cinder. "It's the Fall Maiden."

Cinder silently gasped as she looked down at the metal. "You're... giving me the Darksaber?" she asked. "But why?"

"I never met a Mandalorian like you, Cinder. Ever since you learned the truth about your powers, you saw the bigger picture. You've been living by the Way of the Mandalore ever since I showed it to you... and then you started to learn the Way of the Maiden. It's time the Mandalorians learn that way too." Djarin held the Darksaber out further. "And they'll need a proper teacher."

"..."

Cinder was speechless by the gesture, along with the Mandalorian's words. She couldn't deny what he said, how she tried to look at the bigger picture as a Maiden. Even though her desire to live for the Mandalorians and the world as a whole had led to an uncertain crossroads, she wasn't in the mood to give up. She then realized that there was another way things were different from her past; now she was surrounded by people who cared about her, who wanted what was best for her. And now, Djarin believed the best thing for her was to be the Mand'alor once their war with Salem was over.

So Cinder slowly took the sword and activated it, raising the black blade above her head.

"It's... beautiful," she said with a smile. "A little heavy, but still." Cinder lowered the sword and looked back at Djarin. "You really think I can do this?"

"I know you can," Djarin confirmed. "And if you think I'll be with you every step of the way, you're absolutely right."

Cinder smiled and turned off the Darksaber. "If that's the case... don't think I'll go easy on you to claim this."

Djarin chuckled and rubbed Cinder's head. "Nor you me," he jokingly replied.

"..."

After a brief moment of silence, the Mandalorians remembered why they were at Amity in the first place. "It looks like the Chill's not down here," said Djarin. "Now would have been the perfect time to strike."

"Yeah," Cinder agreed. "Maybe one of us should held back up top and see if it's there."

Djarin looked at the clock on his gauntlet. "The crowd's going to start asking questions soon. Ironwood has to commence the match sometime."

"I kinda hate to think about it, but..." Cinder let out a heavy sigh when she presented her idea. "Maybe it won't attack until the match actually starts."

The Mandalorian nodded. "I was thinking the same thing." He then looked upwards. "One of us can go up top like you said, but we could use an eye in the sky too. Someone like... Qrow."

Cinder looked up as well, understanding what Djarin was getting at. "Yeah, he could reach a place higher than us," she said. "But where is he?"

"In Vale." Djarin looked back to Cinder. "Maybe you should get back upstairs, I'll go get Qrow."

"Okay. Hurry back."

Using his Semblance, Djarin found himself where he separated from Qrow. The people around him moved aside with a gasp at the Mandalorian's immediate appearance and continued to stare at him as he made his way to an apartment complex. Djarin was used to stares like these, which was why he was able to focus on the task at hand.

"Hey, buckethead!"

Djarin turned around to see a man wearing a black suit staring at him. "Weren't you that girl's dad?" he asked. "The one who got hurt at Amity?"

"She's my daughter, yes," Djarin confirmed.

The man suddenly chuckled. "Guess that armor of hers really worked out, huh?" Two men who had stopped and watched the altercation begin were nodding in agreement. "Maybe that should teach the two of you from trying to get your way."

"She didn't do anything wrong," the Mandalorian confirmed.

"Yeah, and I'm the King of Vale!"

"..."

Djarin rarely met anyone who had the courage to defy the Mandalorians to their faces, especially out in the open. As much as he wanted to teach the man a lesson for insulting him and Cinder, Djarin knew he had no business with the man. He simply walked inside the apartment and ignored the profanity the man was saying behind his back. He silently began to think back on what Cinder had said back in her room, realizing that she was definitely on to something. And he had definitely made the right choice by giving her the Darksaber. But he put these thoughts aside as he climbed the stairs and told himself why he was back in Vale; to find Qrow.

He had a feeling the long time since their separation had yielded good results. As he walked up the stairs, Djarin imagined what answers Qrow had gotten out of 'Sandie Collins'. Mainly, why she decided to involve herself in Cinder's life, since she apparently had no relation with her to begin with. And if Qrow wasn't able to get any answers, the Mandalorian would be happy to aid him. Self-restraint would be crucial in this case, given what people like the boastful man outside usually said.

However, Djarin began to err on the side of caution when he began to smell something.

"Is that... smoke?"

Djarin moved down the hallway he was standing in and came across both his destination and the source of the smell; room 2A had smoke coming out from below its door.

"Qrow!" Djarin screamed as he ran up to the door and banged on it. "Qrow, are you in there?!"

"..."

The lack of an answer sent Djarin into action. Thinking quickly, he shot his gauntlet's wire at a fire alarm on the wall. He then pulled the wire back, successfully activating the alarm for everyone to hear. He then kicked the door off its hinges, revealing a fire that had engulfed the majority of the apartment. Djarin ran inside and activated his Aura in case the flames got too close to the exposed parts of his armor. His helmet was making breathing simple as he searched the room for Qrow.

After a minute of searching the main parlor, Djarin found an unconscious Qrow in the bedroom and close to a growing flame. When he was sure nobody else was in the room, Djarin quickly grabbed Qrow and used his Semblance to take him outside the building. Multiple people were evacuating, so Djarin took Qrow into an alley and out of their way. Quickly putting two fingers on Qrow's neck, Djarin detected that his friend was still alive and breathing.

"Qrow, wake up!" the Mandalorian shouted.

"..."

Seeing that simply yelling at Qrow would get nowhere, Djarin took a more drastic step by slapping Qrow in the face.

*SMACK*

"Gah!" Qrow shouted as he came off the ground. "Huh? Wha?" He was trying to figure out what was going on, but he seemed too flustered to have a single coherent thought. "What's going on?" he groggily asked. "Why am I out here?"

"You tell me," Djarin replied. "I just pulled you out of a burning building."

"Burning?" Qrow suddenly felt the smell of smoke enter his nostrils, which surprisingly gave the Huntsman a wake-up call. With the Mandalorian's help, Qrow got off the ground and ran to the front of the building, where the smoke and fire was more evident. "Mando, what the hell happened?!"

"How should I know?! You came here alone, and I found you unconscious!" A bad thought came its way into Djarin's mind. "Qrow, how much did you have to drink before-?"

"No, no, I didn't do this!" Qrow argued. He then reached into his shirt and tried to pull out an empty flask, hoping this would prove his innocence. "I haven't had a drink in... Wait a minute." He reached deeper into his pocket. "Where's my flask?"

"..."

Qrow decided to check his other pocket, but this only led him to another question. "Wait, where's my wallet? And my Scroll?!" He then reached behind his back and saw yet another possession of his was missing. "My weapon's gone!"

Djarin was looking at Qrow while he was attempting to find his things, but something behind the Huntsman caught the Mandalorian's eye. "Qrow... is that it?" he asked as he pointed deeper in the alley.

Qrow turned around to see Harbinger, the weapon he crafted himself, on the ground behind him. Qrow walked over and quickly picked it up. "Did you bring my weapon out here?" he asked the Mandalorian.

"No, but I have an idea where it came from." Djarin pointed overhead to a smoking window. "That must be 2A."

Qrow was able to remember why he was here in the first place. "That woman, Sandie... she left me there to die!" he screamed as he turned back to the Mandalorian. "My wallet has about a hundred Lien in it, and my Scroll has my Huntsman license!"

"She must have taken the Scroll and Harbinger to make sure nobody knew who you were," Djarin surmised. "She might use the money for transport out of Vale."

The sounds of sirens caught the attention of both men, who turned to see the fire department and the police had arrived. Qrow and Djarin walked over to the police to explain what happened and who was responsible.

"We'll put out an APB on Sandie Collins," a man in a white dress shirt and black tie promised. "The fire team should find signs of arson like you said." He looked up to see a man dressed like him talking to another man with blonde hair and a gray T-shirt. "My partner's with the landlord, he should be able to help you find this girl."

Qrow and Djarin walked over to the other police officer and the landlord. The officer's partner gestured for him to come over, which he did while shooting an uncertain glare at the Mandalorian. But Djarin ignored it and looked back to Qrow. "Hey buddy," Qrow said to the landlord. "Your tenant Sandie was the one who blew up your place. Know anywhere else she might go?"

"Who?" the landlord asked in confusion.

"Sandie Collins," Djarin replied. "She lived in room 2A."

The landlord's confusion didn't leave him, but he began to have some kind of understanding as to what they meant. "Sandie? You mean Honey?"

Djarin and Qrow looked back at each other before asking the landlord the same question. "Honey?"

"Yeah, Honey Wine," the landlord replied. "She's the one who moved in there."

"Moved in?" Djarin asked. "When was this?"

"A little over a week ago. She moved here from Mistral, said she was in trouble with some gang." He then looked down and snapped his fingers, trying to remember something else. "Spider! Yeah, that gang Spider!"

"I've heard of them," said Qrow. "And you didn't say anything?"

"She and I are friends, and she helped me out once or twice," the landlord answered calmly. "When asked for a place to live, I couldn't say 'no' after all she did for me. Are you sure she's the one who did this?"

"Positive. Do you know where she is now? Where she's most likely to go?"

"No, she rarely left the apartment." The landlord cupped his hands on his ears and looked down. "Oh, God. Honey destroyed my place, why?"

Djarin knew she was covering her tracks, and he had a feeling the landlord knew more about her. All he needed were the right questions. "Was she trying to con Spider out of something?" he asked. "Money, maybe?"

"Con?" the landlord asked.

"Honey Wine is a con-artist," Djarin reiterated. "She's been conning my daughter ever since they met, and I need to know why. Now, did Honey try to steal money from Spider?"

The questions and presence of the Mandalorian were making the landlord uneasy. Nevertheless, he answered the questions to the best of his ability. "No, not that I know of. I mean, her Semblance got her in trouble a few times, but-"

"Wait, Semblance?" Qrow asked. "What do you mean? What does her Semblance do?"

"She sings," the landlord quickly answered. "Her singing makes people feel good and lose touch with their surroundings. She told me she used it to pickpocket people or make them susceptible to the commands of anyone else in the room with her."

Before Djarin could ask another question, Qrow took his arm and gestured to the side. The duo then walked away from the landlord, but not before telling him to go to the police and tell them about Honey Wine. Once they were alone, Qrow whispered to Djarin. "I remember it now," he said. "She sang a high note as soon as I went in the room. Next minute, you were with me."

"But why Cinder?" Djarin asked. "If she wanted money, Honey Wine should have come after me. Going after Cinder doesn't make any sense."

"Maybe Cinder was a means to an end." Qrow quietly gasped as another terrible idea came to mind. "Or maybe she doesn't want money. Do you think they want something from you? The two of you?"

"Like the Fall Maiden?"

"Maybe. Or anything about the Fall Maiden. Or Ozpin. Or anything like that."

"Did Honey say anything else to you?"

"Only that-" The truth dawned on Qrow and sent the fear of the Gods in him. "That she was expecting you."

"Me?" Djarin asked. "This was a trap for me?"

"Looks that way," Qrow replied as he turned back to the building. "So who in their right mind would try to kill a Mandalorian?"

"..."

Djarin teleported himself back to the police and the landlord and began to talk to them while showing a picture on his gauntlet. Qrow couldn't hear what they were saying, so he walked back towards them. But he stopped in his tracks when Djarin grabbed the landlord and began to scream and violently shake him.

"Hey, let him go!" the first officer said as he pushed on the Mandalorian and reached for the gun at his belt. "Try that again and I'll take you in for assault!"

Djarin ignored the threat and ran over to Qrow. "We need to get to Amity!" he said as he grabbed the Huntsman's shoulder.

*BAM*

Instead of an apartment with flashing lights everywhere, Qrow and the Mandalorian found themselves at a bus stop of all places. They were still in the city, which seemed to cause a high amount of distress for Djarin.

"Dammit!" he screamed as he looked at his gauntlet. The Mandalorian's damaged Aura had just run out and was currently recharging, leaving him with no choice but to run north.

"Mando, wait!" Qrow screamed as he chased after Djarin. "Where are you going?! What's going on?!"

"Cinder's in danger!"

If there was ever a time when Cinder was forced to concentrate on something important, that time was completely irrelevant to the present situation she was in. The singles round of the Vytal Festival was about to begin, and the plan to observe any attempt by the Chill was about to commence. She had her father's rifle and the two teachers that accompanied her to Amity were also watching the arena like a hawk.

But her father and Qrow were nowhere to be seen. Cinder considered the idea of calling either of them to ask where they were, but she knew watching the arena was more important. And given that the randomization process for the first two fighters had just started, their plan to watch for the Chill to strike had just started.

But as luck would have it, the first combatant had no chance of being possessed; the first combatant was Penny.

Cinder felt somewhat relieved that the Chill's next target would most likely be Penny's opponent, so she would need to focus on them. And before he left, Djarin had given Cinder his Amban rifle. With the weapon and her Maiden powers, Cinder felt somewhat confident that she and her present allies would be able to catch the Chill. In order to do that, Professor Goodwitch and General Ironwood were sitting close to the arena so they could act when the time called for it. Cinder was currently standing alone by the highest seats, so she decided to move down with the two teachers.

*WHOOSH*

A sudden cold spot on the back of her neck caused Cinder to rub it as she made her way to the arena. But then she remembered the last time she felt a chill like that, which caused her to turn around and rip the Amban rifle off her back. She looked for any sign of movement or unnatural darkness, and found it by a red door with a hammer and wrench on it. Cinder quickly opened the door and saw a black shape that resembled a human. There was no doubt about it; Cinder had found the Chill.

*BUZZ*

*BUZZ*

The sound of Cinder's Scroll going off caused both Cinder and the Chill to look at the source of the noise. Cinder looked up to see the Grimm was staring at her, so she quickly aimed the rifle and fired.

*BANG*

Unfortunately, the shot missed the Grimm and hit a box instead. When the Chill witnessed the disintegration of the box, it made a cowardly retreat and flew further down the hallway.

"No!" Cinder cried as she gave chase. After she reloaded the rifle, she fumbled through her pocket to take out her Scroll. She saw that it was a call from the Mandalorian, one that she answered as fast as she could. "Dad, I found the Chill! Tell Ironwood it's-!"

*BAM*

Answering the call made Cinder oblivious to a toolbox that was clumsily thrown on the ground by someone who had left the maintenance area a while ago. This mistake had left Cinder to trip on the box and drop both the rifle and her Scroll. The fall didn't hurt the young girl, but it had distracted her from pursuing the Chill. Cinder couldn't allow this to happen, so she picked up the rifle with haste and continued down the hall, leaving her Scroll behind.

The dark shape was still visible, but it had gained a vast distance from Cinder. And with enough time, it could reach an exit before Cinder could catch up to it. But rather than let this happen, Cinder did her best to catch up to the Grimm and shoot it. Unfortunately, Cinder was having a hard time running and aiming at the Chill. She fired another shot, but it hit the wall instead of the Grimm.

When it crossed a corner, Cinder realized her attempts to kill the Chill were going nowhere fast. She had a good feeling that she was alone, given that nobody had come to investigate the sounds of gunfire. So when she realized what had to be done in order to protect everyone from this Grimm, Cinder didn't hesitate to let fire come to her eyes and fire to spawn at her heels and hands. She slightly jumped into the air and then flew like a bullet out of a gun towards the Chill. The speed was miraculous, and just what Cinder needed to finally catch up to the Grimm. When she did, Cinder focused her powers on her feet, causing her to leap at a tremendous height above the Grimm, where she turned around and reloaded the Amban rifle once again. When she landed in front of it, Cinder watched the Grimm stop moving as she pointed the barrel at it.

*BANG*

After two failed attempts, the third shot proved to be the charm Cinder was hoping for. The blast from her father's shot struck the Chill in its chest, causing the monster to disintegrate with a loud shriek. In just one moment, it had disappeared into nothing but ash.

Cinder sighed in relief as she let her powers disappear. "Thank... the Gods," she said as she took heavy breaths. When she had finally caught her breath, Cinder reached into her pocket and reached for her Scroll. When she felt nothing, the Fall Maiden silently cursed herself as she remembered that she chose to leave her Scroll behind.

If only she hadn't tripped and dropped it.

When she cursed herself for doing so, Cinder felt a twinge of fear when she realized she may have dropped something else. But when she reached for her waist and felt a piece of metal hanging on the edge, the young girl sighed in relief as she took the metal off her belt and walked down the hall. "Still here," she said as she looked upon the Darksaber.

As she continued her journey, Cinder couldn't help but turn on the Darksaber and marvel at the beauty of the dark blade. The hilt still felt heavy, but Cinder dismissed the weight as a need to practice with it in the future. Cinder planned on taking her father's offer of being the Mand'alor after they dealt with Salem. She had all sorts of ideas on how to make them not only a religion, but a race worthy of respect from everyone on Remnant.

"The Way of the Maiden," she thought to herself as she stared at the black blade. "That's a great idea. I never even thought of something like that. Maybe I can meet the other Maidens too, like Fria. See what else I can teach the Mandalorians. Maybe I can even rebuild Mandalore! Except... maybe not on Mandalore. The Faunus of Menagerie might not like that. But if we make it somewhere else, maybe Mandalorians can participate in the Vytal Festival!" Cinder sighed as she continued to daydream. "I really gotta thank Dad when-"

*THOOM*

Cinder's dreams were put on hold when the hallway became engulfed in darkness.

"Huh?"

This was the only thought Cinder could have when the light disappeared. The Darksaber's white edges provided a small glimmer of light, but it wasn't enough for Cinder to see which way she was going. So she deactivated the blade and lifted her hand in the air. Her Maiden powers allowed her to create a small fire in her palm, which she used to light her way. "Hello?" she called out as she walked through the dark hallway. "Someone here?"

"..."

"Nothing," Cinder thought as she held out her hand further. Her eyes weren't glowing, so she decided to explain the fire as an evolved Semblance if someone came to her from the darkness. But she was more concerned as to what caused the lights to go out in the first place. "Sounded like a breaker tripped or something. Hope it wasn't me." She continued to go through the halls, but then Cinder realized that there was nothing around her that looked familiar. There was a staircase behind her leading downwards, but it wasn't what Cinder was looking for. The teenager realized that she may have gotten lost when she was chasing the Chill, which didn't bode well for her future.

Remembering that her Scroll was on, Cinder realized that if she was close to it, the light would be bright enough to shine in the darkness. So she put down her hand and let the fire die in an attempt to see her Scroll.

"More darkness," she thought to herself when no light filled her surroundings. "I just had to leave it behind, huh? Now I can't even-"

*BUZZ*

*BUZZ*

"Ha, ha, ha!"

Cinder's heart skipped a beat when she heard an unfamiliar buzzing and soft laughter right in front of her. The sounds caused Cinder to quickly move her hand and ask a single question. "Hey, what the-?"

As soon as the flame lit her immediate surroundings, a smiling face moved into Cinder's personal space and screamed. "Raah!"

"Aaugh!" Cinder screamed in fear as she backed away from the face. In doing so, Cinder lost her footing and fell down the flight of stairs she was standing in front of. Her body hit each metal step that went downward, and her head took a bad hit when she finally reached the end. Her arms, legs, and torso were all bruised in different places, but blood was flowing from her head to the metal floor she was currently laying on. The pain in her head was so intense, she couldn't muster the focus needed to activate her Aura and heal the wound.

After a few moments, Cinder was able to sit upright and begin to activate her Aura. But then, she heard the buzzing sound once again, causing her to look up the stairs again. Before she could make another fire, Cinder heard a familiar voice followed by giggling.

"What's the matter, Cindy? Did I scare you?"

Cinder looked up at the source of the voice, where she heard footsteps walking down the stairs. A soft light from a Scroll filled her surroundings and finally let her see the figure more clearly. It was another girl, a couple of years older than her, in a black dress that reached the ground. A black hood was covering a majority of her red hair, but her smiling face was as clear as day for Cinder.

"Flo... Flora?" Cinder groggily asked. Her head was still pounding, but Cinder's vision wasn't affected. She could see that the girl in front of her was indeed Flora Blair, alive and well. "But... you were... you were hurt."

Flora's smile disappeared. "Hurt?" she asked as she titled her head and narrowed her eyes. She then moved it upright and smiled again. "Oh, right! You mean... like this?!"

*SWISH*

"AAAAHHH!"

Cinder screamed like a banshee when she felt a new kind of pain. And the light from her teammate's Scroll was shining down to show that Flora's sickle was sticking in her leg. And Flora simply leaned forward and smelled the air as she closed her eyes. "Mmmm!" she moaned as she opened her eyes. "Young-blood!"

*BUZZ*

*BUZZ*

Along with a sickle in her leg, Cinder found herself surrounded by flying insects. They began to bite into her flesh without mercy, leaving Cinder to scream again and unable to think straight.

"Careful, girls!" Flora said to the flies as she stopped another round of laughter. "She's still the Maiden, after all!"

The biting stopped as quickly as it began. This gave Cinder a chance to look up at Flora and the multiple insects, which she was able to recognize as Botflies. She was beyond surprised from the attack to her leg and the second Grimm attack, but Cinder could only muster the strength to ask one question. "Wha... What did you say?" she asked.

"Don't worry 'bout that," Flora said as she watched the flies move. "Don't you wanna say 'Hi' to your friends, instead?"

The dark room began to fill with laughter once again, but it wasn't Flora's. Suddenly, the numerous Botflies began to fly in two large packs. The packs began to take forms that were the same size as Flora. One form quickly sprouted an arm that held another sickle and the second sprouted a face that was identical to Flora's. Soon enough, the forms revealed themselves to be feminine and wearing the same dress as Flora. And their familiar faces looked down on Cinder with sadistic glee.

"Hi, Cinder!" said Merri, who kept her distance from Cinder's hands.

"Surprise!" said Fauna, who couldn't resist the urge to take a closer look at the flabbergasted expression on her leader's face.

"Wha-Wha-What the hell?" Cinder stuttered. The terrifying miracle she had just witnessed raised even more questions, but it had left one thing apparently certain. "You-You're Grimm!"

"Ding-ding!" Fauna said without losing her smile. She then rubbed her hand on a veil behind her, letting Botflies form and escape from it. "Oh, Cinder. You have no idea how good it feels to let myself loose like this!" She then moved her hand down to Cinder's face, where it transformed into more flies. "Want another close look?"

"Get away!" Cinder lifted her hand and let a flame jet escape from her palm. Fauna quickly backed away from the fire and Flora pulled on her sickle, causing Cinder to scream again and stop her attack.

Merri quickly kneeled down and put her sickle against Cinder's throat. "Try that again, and I'll skin you alive," she whispered into Cinder's ear. "And then you'll be tonight's main dish." She then bit the girl's ear lobe, causing blood to spill into her mouth. "Mmm, you taste much better than I thought you would."

Cinder moved her head away from Merri. "Wh-What are you doing?!" she screamed. "What are all of you doing?!"

"Right now, I'm trying to fix myself, you bitch!" Fauna screamed as she looked at her burnt arm. A green glow began to form around the limb, but not before a few dead Botflies fell to the ground. Once the glow disappeared, Fauna sighed in relief. "That's better."

Cinder was once again at a loss of words. She knew all of the Grimm from her studies at Beacon. They were all different in shape and size, but they all had one thing in common; Grimm were soulless monsters. It was this lack of a soul that prevented any Grimm from possessing an Aura, and yet Fauna had just used one to heal her burnt arm.

"You'll find out later," said Merri, who kicked the Amban rifle away. "Right now, you won't be needing that." Her eyes then fell on a particular piece of metal on Cinder's belt. "Or that." She grabbed the Darksaber and looked it over.

"Give that back!" Cinder screamed as she reached for the sword. But Flora's sickle moved even deeper into Cinder's leg, preventing her from doing anything but feel more pain. The theft of something she found to be a prized possession broke Cinder's heart enough to realize that the people in front of her were nothing but her enemies. "Why are you doing this?" The heartbreak caused her to shed a tear. "I... I thought-"

"You thought exactly what we needed you to think," Merri replied. "And look where it got us; exactly what we wanted!" The sisters shared a brief laugh before Flora seemed to levitate in the air.

"Come on, Merri!" she whined. "I'm hungry! And our leader is starting to look tasty!"

Merri looked back to Flora. "Then lead the way, sister." The redhead happily obliged and began to fly deeper into the darkness, dragging Cinder with her. Merri and Fauna also floated off the ground as their legs turned into Botflies. They followed their sister as their laughter drowned out one last defiant scream from Cinder.

"Nooooooo!"

TheCourtofTalons · Nov 14, 2023

Chapter 38: The Clones

"What do you mean you don't know where she is?!"

"We were all looking for the Chill in different places! But don't worry, I've sent all security to sweep the arena. We'll find Cinder."

"And her teammates! They're still in Vale, they never left!"

"Admiral Thrawn told me. His men have already been deployed."

"Just hurry! There's no way they wouldn't pick up where the Chill left off!"

Din Djarin couldn't think of another time when he was this scared. The cause of the unnatural fear was a terrible truth that he discovered from the landlord of the apartment complex. That three similar-looking girls had been coming and going from Honey Wine's apartment ever since she moved in. And based on what Admiral Thrawn hypothesized, that Flora Blair somehow passed the Chill onto Winter like Clan Saxon was doing, the truth of it all was as clear as crystal. The Blair sisters were the spies General Ironwood had guessed were at Beacon Academy.

The Mandalorian finally ended the call he made to Ironwood when he saw that he reached his destination; the Vale landing pad, where people from all over the Kingdoms would be taking their first steps from a crowded airship to the city of Vale. Djarin knew that if he was going to save Cinder from the danger he discovered, this would be the best place to get to Amity Colosseum without help from his Semblance. The Razor Crest wasn't here, but the next best thing certainly was.

And with Qrow Branwen at his side, acquiring another airship hopefully wouldn't be difficult.

"All of these are civilian transports," the Mandalorian said as he looked beyond the fence standing between him and the airfield. "There's no way these can get us to Amity fast enough."

Qrow turned away from the larger transports to a smaller airship in a hanger. It wasn't entirely visible in the dark that was falling onto Vale, but Qrow could tell it was a much better option than what the Mandalorian had his eyes on. "C'mon!" he shouted as he kicked open the metal gate. He quickly made his way to the hanger with Djarin, where they were immediately stopped by a Faunus in a mechanic's jumpsuit.

"Hey!" he yelled to the approaching humans. "What're you doing?! You can't be-!"

"Licensed Huntsman!" Qrow shouted as he reached into his pocket. "We're commandeering that... ship..." Qrow stopped running when he remembered that his Scroll had been stolen, along with his Huntsman identification. Djarin stopped running as well, also remembering that Qrow's identification was stolen. The Faunus mechanic didn't look entirely convinced, and he was prepared to tell both men to leave. But Djarin needed to get to Amity, even if he couldn't prove that Qrow was within his rights to commandeer the airship.

So he did the only sensible thing he could think of.

*BAM*

The mechanic unconsciously fell to the ground with a bloody nose after Djarin punched him and took off to the hanger. Qrow watched the scene unfold in surprise, but quickly rejoined his partner when he knew the man would be fine sooner or later. All he needed to concern himself was talking out of a potential lawsuit with the airport. Hopefully, the punch was strong enough to knock out some memory as well as consciousness.

Djarin, however, wasn't concerned with the mechanic. Instead, his focus was on the airship that Qrow found among the civilian transports. It was much smaller and less bulkier than other ships, it almost looked like an Atlesian Manta. However, the wings were more triangular and the outer shell was much smaller. Judging from the missiles on each side and the single seat in the cockpit, the airship appeared to be...

"A fighter," Qrow said as he looked at the ship. "Looks like some kinda prototype."

"What it looks like is our way to Amity," Djarin replied as he used his jetpack to jump to the pilot seat. "There's only one seat here, I don't think-"

*CAW*

*CAW*

The Mandalorian watched a small black bird fly from where Qrow was standing to the seat. One would have wondered where he had gone, but Dajrin had seen Qrow perform this feat before; he knew the bird was Qrow, who had used a piece of Ozpin's magic to transform into one. And now the bird had flown and landed close to the control panel, resting as far away from the buttons as possible.

"...That'll have to do," the Mandalorian said as he jumped inside the cockpit. The buttons and controls before him didn't appear too different from the Razor Crest, which allowed for the activation of the single engine to be relatively easy. Once the landing gear rolled the ship out of the hanger, Djarin took the airship off the ground and flew.

Djarin was no stranger to flying. The sound of air hitting the sides and the rising altitude all came naturally after years of experience. But the two aspects of flying this airship that was new to the Mandalorian were the speed and the lightness beneath him. Coming off the ground and feeing practically nothing beneath the airship were almost intimidating to the man in the cockpit. He never had a feeling like this in his previous ships. And the weapons before him, two guns and two missiles, would help make this prototype a force to be reckoned with.

He just hoped the speed would be enough to reach Beacon in time, which was far from the airfield. So without warning the unorthodox passenger in the cockpit, the Mandalorian increased the speed of his airship while Qrow unwittingly found himself forced behind his head.

*CAW*

*CAW*

*CAW*

The pained cries fell on deaf ears as Djarin charted a course for Amity.

Laughter travelled its way down the dark corridors of Amity Colosseum as the Blair sisters continued to unnaturally fly with their prey in tow. As each one reveled in their successful hunt, Cinder screamed in pain as the sickle in her leg stayed where it was and pulled on her flesh. She felt as if she had been dragged for hours and that she would do anything to make the torture stop.

The young Maiden finally got her wish when Merri and Fauna slammed a door open and stopped moving. Flora halted as well, but refused to let Cinder go. All three of the sisters began to change into a human form as the Botfiles disappeared, leaving Merri to walk forward and gesture her hand towards Cinder.

"Madam," she said with a smile. "We bring you fresh prey."

"Good timing, girls."

Cinder opened her eyes and moved her head towards the voice. She couldn't put her finger on it, but the feminine voice was familiar. And the source appeared to be another woman hovering over two bodies on the floor.

"Let's get a look at her," the woman said as she turned around. Cinder gasped when she saw the woman's dark complexion, Faunus ears, and the wide, sadistic smile on her lips. "Cinder, Cinder, Cinder. Look how you've grown."

"Aurora!" Cinder said, gritting her teeth as she tired to block out the pain in her leg.

"Wow," Aurora said while still smiling. "So after all these years, after getting to know you for just a day, you can still remember my name? I'm almost touched."

Cinder had only met the Faunus once when she was a child, but the experience never left her mind. After all, being hunted down with the intent to experiment on someone was traumatic enough to leave an imprint. "How did you-?"

"Find you?" Aurora finished as she walked over to Cinder. "You didn't make it hard, ya know. Her Grace has had her little eye on you for a long time, once she knew where to look. I mean, who else could have offed Nihilus like you did?"

"..."

Aurora remembered hearing about the death of Nihilus, and Salem had learned where it had occurred. She didn't mourn the man who took the prize of killing a Mandalorian away from her, but the Faunus was surprised that someone so powerful could die quickly. Once the steps were retraced and the truth was uncovered, Salem was pleased to hear that Cinder was growing stronger with her powers. And in time, the power would be strong enough to serve her desires.

And the Blair sisters, the Botfly swarms that made them what they were, had made obtaining this power even easier. They never failed in their task.

Especially when Aurora was introduced to the Botflies.

Years ago

Two red eyes opened to find themselves staring at a large meeting room. The eyes looked across the table before them, made of both stone and dark crystal, and saw multiple empty seats. The people at the end of the table weren't sitting, but kneeling. There were two in total, one human and one Faunus. The Faunus was recognized by the eyes as Aurora, someone who had proven herself to be both an ambitious and valuable asset. The human was also an asset, but not one as important as Aurora. Supposedly, he had something Aurora desperately wanted and would stop at nothing to claim it as her own. But the woman Aurora served wanted it more, and was far more ruthless than Aurora could ever be. And now the woman, Salem, was prepared to show her new guests how ruthless she was.

"My Queen," Aurora said as she kept two firm hands on the human she was forcing to kneel.

Salem moved off the chair she was sitting on and walked to her servant. "Welcome home, Aurora," she said with a smile. "I see unlike Spencer here, you never fail me."

The human quickly looked up at the sound of his name, fear written on his face. "Your Grace, all is not-!"

*BAM*

A strike to Spencer's back caused him to fall face first into the floor beneath him. "Shut. Up," Aurora ordered.

"Actually, Aurora... doing the opposite is exactly why I ordered you to find Spencer and return him to me," the witch declared. "I, for one, am more than interested to hear why our Maiden was not where he said she was." Salem looked down on the man, who had raised his head to look at his boss while staying silent. "Well?"

After for what felt like an eternity, Spencer finally spoke again. "My Queen, I swear to you, the Maiden was exactly where I said she was!" he claimed. "I saw her powers first-hand when I travelled to Vacuo! It was her!"

Aurora wanted to sarcastically challenge this claim, since she had gone to Vacuo with him and almost died in a sandstorm that swallowed a small village. But she had learned not to speak unless spoken to, so she kept her mouth shut during Salem's interrogation.

"If you are certain, Spencer, why did she do nothing to save that little village?" Salem asked. "Why weren't its citizens saved in a triumphant display that could be played off as a Semblance?"

"Perhaps she fled! Perhaps there was nothing she could have done!"

Salem gently stroked her chin as she considered the idea. "It is indeed possible," she said, giving the man before her a sense of relief. "And if it is true, you decided not to keep an eye on her. You could have used the Seer I gifted you, you could have hired lowlifes to watch over her."

"..."

Each word Salem spoke sent an invisible knife into Spencer's hopeful spirit. And she wasn't even finished yet. "But instead, you risked our soon-to-be Maiden to be swallowed by the sand," she said. "We can add this to the list of your seemingly never-ending failures, my friend."

"Bu-But, ma'am!" Spencer said as he moved to his knees. Aurora quickly put her hand back on his shoulder while taking out a knife. Salem simply raised her hand, successfully calling off her assassin and giving Spencer breathing room before speaking again. "Your Grace, I know I failed you today. But I-"

"Today?" Salem asked. "What about your recent projects?" Before he could answer, Spencer watched Salem stick her open palm towards him. "Scroll."

"..."

Aurora quickly reached into one of Spencer's pockets and fished out a small white device, one that Salem opened and looked through various pictures. "I would have thought your background as an Atlesian geneticist would have made creating my new Grimm soldiers easy." Salem pushed the Scroll close to Spencer's face. "But instead, you gave me this?"

Spencer knew what Salem was talking about. When he was living in Atlas, Oswald Spencer was a genetic scientist who studied mutations in both human and Faunus genes. These studies, however, soon led to experimentation that many saw as unethical and dangerous. His goal was to create a kind of mutation that would ultimately lead to a next step in human evolution. But not everyone saw the bigger picture like him, which led to him being disgraced and disbanded from the scientific community in Atlas.

When he conducted his experiments elsewhere, Spencer met Salem, who offered to teach him about the Grimm and their place of origin. Her goal was to see if Spencer's genius could create an ultimate Grimm, a tyrant that would rule over the lowly creatures that Salem had created herself. And while she upheld her end of the deal, Spencer had yet to produce anything other than failed experiments.

This truth was evident when Spencer said nothing while looking at each result he had on his Scroll. And if that wasn't enough, the fact that he tried to run when he failed Salem was the icing on the cake.

"Please, ma'am, I know I can do better this time!" the scientist implored. "So, I'm not meant to be out in the field! That doesn't mean I'm not useful!"

"If today has taught us anything, Spencer, it is that you have failed me," Salem argued as she looked closer at her incompetent servant. "Too. Many. Times."

Spencer was trying to figure out an excuse, or anything close enough to an excuse to prove his master wrong. He had done so before when Salem asked him about his experiments, mainly that he was learning more about the Grimm every day. But today was not a good day for that excuse, and both ladies in the room knew that.

He was doomed.

"However... there may be one way you can redeem yourself."

Both Spencer and Aurora shared a sense of surprise when Salem made this claim. Their reactions, however, were polar opposites. Spencer felt hope and happiness once again, but Aurora was far from pleased. "Your Grace, we can't possibly let someone like-!"

"You may release him, Aurora," Salem said sternly. She then stared at her servant, who had a wide jaw as she looked back at Spencer. When she looked up at Salem once more, who furrowed her brow at the Faunus, Aurora finally relented and released the prisoner. "Leave us." Aurora obeyed once more, but not before shooting a dirty glare at the prisoner. And once the wooden doors behind him closed, Spencer looked up at Salem with a smile.

"Yes!" he screamed as he looked at the ground. "Oh, thank you, thank you, thank you."

"..."

Quickly remembering where he was, Spencer looked up at Salem. "Um, I mean, thank you, your Grace," he said as he kneeled upright. "I promise, you won't regret this."

"No, I don't think I will," Salem agreed. She then walked back to the long table, specifically towards her seat. "Let me ask you something, Spencer... do you ever wonder why you're here?" She then moved her hand upwards, giving her disciple permission to rise.

"Um... that is one of life's great mysteries," Spencer replied as he stood up. "I mean... are we the product of-?"

"I mean you, specifically. Have you ever asked yourself why you are here? With me?"

"Oh!" Spencer cleared his throat. "Um... once or twice, ma'am. But I just remember how you said you believed in my work."

"Indeed I did." Salem stopped at her crystal throne and lowered herself to the ground behind it. "I must admit, your experiments in Atlas were an inspiration. The methods in which you attempted to give life to your abominations were very... encouraging, to a creator like myself."

"Thank you, ma'am." Spencer began to walk backwards. "I hope my next experiment will be just as inspiring, once I begin my-"

"That will be unnecessary, Spencer." Salem moved back upwards. "If you wish to redeem yourself in my eyes, you can stay exactly where you are."

Spencer stopped moving. "Oh. Um, very well." He then saw Salem turn back towards him, holding a small glass jar. "What's that?"

"A product of your inspiration," Salem said as she walked back to her servant. "A mutation of Grimm that serves the same purpose as the rest." Salem stopped walking when she was in front of Spencer, and then held the jar out. "Observe."

Spencer obeyed and extended his hands, feeing the cold glass in his palms. He then raised the jar to his eyes, leaving him to see a multitude of black insects flying about. "Flies?" he asked calmly.

"Yes, flies," Salem repeated in confirmation. "Though I believe the term 'Botfly' may be more appropriate here."

The middle-aged man looked closer at one particular fly, noticing red eyes along with white spots on its skin. "These are Grimm. How did you make them?"

"Through trial and error. And assistance from another follower of mine, one who wishes to remain anonymous."

"And they act like the rest of the Grimm?"

"Similar, but different. As to how much, I want you to determine this." Salem made her way to the doors, gently pushing past Spencer as they opened.

"I see," Spencer said as he stared at the jar. "What should I expect?"

"A long and arduous devouring," Salem said as she stopped in the hallway. She turned back to the meeting room, where her disciple was standing. "That was the purpose I created them with, and the one I must determine. Here and now."

"I see." Spencer finally lowered the jar to his chest. "And you want me to carry out this experiment? On another person?"

Salem smiled as she moved one of her hands away from the door. "No, Spencer. On you."

*ZAP*

A small beam of light escaped from Salem's fingertip and made contact with the jar, which shattered into dangerously sharp shards. The newly freed Botflies began to fly around the room as quickly as they could, but found themselves trapped when the wooden doors were slammed closed.

Fear found its way from Spencer's brain into the rest of his body. Preferring flight to a fight, he rushed over to the doors and tried to open them. But all he managed to do was fail to move either of them.

"Thank you for your service, Oswald Spencer," Salem called out on the other side. "I'm sure you'll consider yourself redeemed... posthumously."

"What?!" Spencer screamed as he banged his fists on both doors. He then felt harsh biting all over his arms and legs. "No! Let me out! Let me-AAAUGH!" The biting became even more intense, as well as Spencer's screams of agony.

Salem sadistically reveled in the screams and sounds of flesh being bitten into. Aurora, who was standing outside the room, smiled as well. She, like her master, was no longer fond of the fool of a geneticist they employed.

"Aurora."

The young Faunus turned to her master, who was staring back at her. "I have made previous arrangements to replace dear Spencer," she said. "You are to meet him in two days time."

"Is he anything like the human in there?" Aurora asked.

"Certainly not. His arrogance and ego may blind him, but he is no mere inspiration like Spencer. He knows how to acquire results." Salem moved down the hall. "Come. Let us pass the time while our experiment is underway."

Present-day

Aurora smiled fondly of the memory Salem introducing her to the new Grimm. Their potential was far beyond anything she could have imagined, and she always enjoyed witnessing their destructive potential first hand. And now, she enjoyed the spoils of their most recent hunt.

"Why are you doing this?" Cinder finally asked. "Why did all of you come to Beacon? Just to try and steal my powers again?"

"That and then some," Aurora confessed. "Let's just say something big is gonna go down tonight. You're gonna love it."

Cinder glared at Aurora with seething anger as she felt fire come to her face. She knew her only chance of escape would come with pain, but it was a price she had to pay if she wanted to warn everyone of the true nature behind the Chill and the Blair sisters. "You stay away from everyone out there, or so help me-"

"Aaaand sleep."

Cinder's energy left her in an instant once Aurora pointed her glowing finger at her. The young Maiden involuntarily complied and fell to the ground, leaving the three sisters to look at their fallen prey.

"Oh, I will never get tired of that," said Flora, who leaned down to Cinder and ripped out her sickle.

"Aurora makes it too easy," said Fauna, who joined her sister's posture to examine Cinder.

"That's enough, girls," said Merri, who looked back to Aurora. "Are you ready to kill her now, ma'am?"

"Yes and no," Aurora replied as she twirled a knife in her hand. "Nothing would make me happier than to put this brat down for good. But it's not that easy." Aurora opened her palm and revealed a small black beetle resting in her hand. "Our little friend is still resting after I gave you the Aura of that other girl you brought me, and recharging that laser sword I got." Aurora patted a metal hilt on her waist. "If I tried to take the Maiden's power now, this bug'll die halfway through the process."

"Looks like she's staying for a while, then. What should we do?"

Aurora walked over to the side of the room, where a variety of boxes and bags were laying down. "This is the broadcast room of the arena, those TVs over there are capturing the fight." Aurora pointed to the second source of light in the room, showing Penny fighting against a student with a staff. "Which means, to keep everything running properly, emergency repairs would have to be done at the drop of a hat. Leaving supplies like... these." Aurora threw two large spools of wire onto the ground. "Tie her up. See if you can hang her too."

"Yes, ma'am."

Aurora looked back at the televisions in the room, which were still capturing the fight. Even though the technicians were dead, the broadcast wasn't interrupted by anything. The Faunus prided herself in slipping past the Kingdom's defenses, Atlesian and Valian, so easily. And the way her present company blended into Beacon and stuck to their plan was even better.

Of course, the flies were capable of much more than espionage.

Years ago

"Just... die!"

*GROWL*

Aurora was currently struggling to hold onto one of her knives, which was resting inside the abdomen of a large Ursa. She had been locked in combat with it, and more Grimm like it, for over a half hour. And to say the experience was torture would be an understatement.

Blood and sweat were both falling in her eyes, given that her Aura had broken over ten minutes ago. The sweat and Aurora's burning muscles had made grasping a single knife almost impossible, but she did the best she could to keep moving the steel blade deeper and deeper into the Grimm's body.

The Ursa, unfortunately, wasn't suffering the same pain and exhaustion as the Faunus before it. Which allowed it to easily knock its opponent off her feet with a single swipe of its claws. The broken Faunus had gotten up time and time again from attacks like these, but this time was different. Aurora tried to stand once more, but her legs weren't listening to her. They simply laid on the stone cold floor as the Ursa roared triumphantly and charged towards its victim.

*ZAP*

Multiple beams of multiple colors flew above Aurora's head, barely missing her flesh. Their target wasn't the Faunus, but the Ursa instead. The Ursa flew back and screamed in pain as the Magic turned the Creature of Grimm into nothing but ash.

"Enough."

Aurora looked to her right when she heard Salem's command, and then felt her blood freeze when she saw the disappointed look on the witch's face. The Faunus had seen the same deathly glare on her master's face before, when she heard news of Spencer's failure and attempted desertion. And now, Salem was disappointed yet again. Given that her one and only servant failed at what she considered "basic training," it would seem impossible for Salem to not be angry at her present situation.

"I thought you were the girl who wanted power," she said calmly to Aurora. "Did you lie to me?"

"..."

Aurora said nothing as she attempted to regain her breath, but shook her head to deny the claim. More than anything, she wanted the power her master promised her. And she thought Salem knew that as well, despite her failure at this exercise.

"Then stop holding back," the Queen ordered. "If you wish to master the power of the Maidens, you must master the art of combat. If you cannot, then how do you expect to fair against someone with the Power of Old?" Salem's eyes fell upon Aurora's ripped shirt, revealing fresh, bloody scars. Along with those, Aurora's exposed torso revealed an older scar, much older than the ones she just received. "How do you expect to gain the vengeance you desire?"

Aurora followed Salem's eyes to the deep scar and then quickly covered it. She knew what her master was speaking of, and it was something she hated to remember. And yet, the old Queen was correct; if she wanted to gain what she desired, Aurora needed to be stronger. She was no Huntress, and only learned how to fight the occasional small Grimm before coming to the Land of Darkness. This was something new, something much more than she could handle.

But Aurora promised to handle it. Or she would die trying.

Salem was pleased to see her minion so determined, just like she had seen in others for many years. "I can sense your anger, Aurora. Soon, this anger will lead to hate. And your hate will lead to power. Let your anger flow through you. Your hate will make you strong."

"Yes, your Grace," Aurora said as she stood up, twirling a knife in her hand.

"No. That is enough for now." Salem turned around and began to walk away. "Reflect on your failure here."

"..."

Aurora silently obeyed and watched her master leave the room. Salem didn't bother looking back on her furious disciple; instead, she kept moving forward. The time she spent instructing the Faunus had been more than enough for her experiment on the fool of a scientist to conclude. And now, Salem was ready to see what had become of her latest creation.

The banging and screaming from the room in front of the Grimm Queen had died long ago, when Oswald Spencer was in the process of being devoured by Botfiles. And Salem had just opened the doors to her meeting room, where a few small Grimm were continuing to fly around. Salem was confident that they wouldn't be satisfied with just one meal, but she didn't fear for her safety. After all, she was the last person on Remnant the Grimm would try to hurt.

The same, however, could not be said for the human remains that Salem was standing over. Laying at her feet were tattered cloth, puddles of blood, and small remains of bone and flesh on the ground. This immediately gained Salem's attention, rather than the fact that a majority of the flies were missing.

"I've only been gone for an hour," she noted. "And yet, this couldn't have taken longer than five minutes." Salem kneeled down and picked up a broken finger the flies had left behind, but was crawling with something other than Grimm.

"Could these be... larvae?" Salem wondered as she held the finger closer to her eyes. Indeed, the red flesh behind the finger was pulsing and displaying a few white larvae in the center. One such larva had just hatched and sprouted a small Botfly, which flew to Salem's finger.

"Grimm reproduction... without a pool," Salem said as she dropped the finger and examined the fly. "They could lie and hatch right under Ozma's nose." Salem pushed her finger and let the insect fly around the room. "Perfect. Absolutely perfect. Perhaps Aurora can bring me more-"

"Uhhh..."

A soft, audible moan travelled from the other side of the room and into Salem's ears. It could only be described as one of pain, which should be impossible after what happened. Intrigued, Salem turned around fast and saw the source of the moan.

At the edge of the table were two hands crawling upward, as if the body connected to them were having trouble standing up. And sure enough, a pale body that was missing chunks of its body was indeed trying to stand. Parts of its arms, torso, and legs were all missing, Botflies were instead filling the voids where flesh should be found. It's face, however, was complete and quite detailed. Despite the pale face, Salem recognized it in an instant.

"...Spencer," Salem whispered in shock. "It can't be."

"Uhhh..."

Salem tried to find any doubt that the broken man before her was indeed Oswald Spencer, her failed servant she condemned to death. The only thing that could help was if he spoke clearly instead of moaning in pain. But the fact that his mouth was pouring even more flies and was also missing a tongue made that impossible.

A million questions ran through Salem's mind as she stared upon the abomination before her. She would have almost felt proud of herself and her creation for causing this much pain and despair, but she was too busy trying to understand what exactly happened. The Queen knew for a fact that Spencer shouldn't be among the living, given what remained on the ground before her. So how was this possible? Did the Botflies fail to kill him? Or did it take longer than she initially expected?

*SWISH*

A small metal object flew through the air and became embedded into Spencer's arm. Salem quickly snapped out of her surprise and turned to see Aurora preparing to throw another knife.

"He still won't die?" Aurora asked angrily. "He can't do anything right! Just a moment, Your Grace, and I'll take care of this-!"

"Hold," Salem ordered with a raised palm. "Look here, Aurora." Salem raised her other hand to display the finger she picked up off the ground. "This was Spencer's. He must have lost in when the Botflies attacked."

Aurora quickly glanced at the finger before looking back to her master. "So?" she asked.

Salem pointed to Spencer. "How many fingers do you see on his hands?"

Aurora looked back to Spencer, specifically his hands. As she looked away from the knife she had thrown, the soon-to-be assassin could see there were five fingers on the human's left hand. When she looked at his right hand, which was extended towards both women, Aurora could see that Spencer had five fingers on his other hand.

This was when Aurora managed to realize that something wasn't adding up. Humans and Faunus were different in various ways, but they all had five fingers on their hands. The outlier in Salem's hand was impossible to exist.

Unless...

*ZAP*

Multiple beams of light exploded from an orb in Salem's hand and struck the body where it stood. As the energy hit its chest, the walking corpse began to fall and decay into multiple Botflies; more Botflies than what Salem had previously created and placed in her jar. The flesh and bone that made up the body all turned into Botflies, which began to fly towards Salem and Aurora.

"As I thought," Salem said when she stopped chuckling. "That was not Spencer." Salem could sense Aurora's fear and could hear her attempting to leave. "They are still my creations, Aurora. They will not harm you."

Aurora had seen many things since she came under Salem's tutelage. From the true origin of the Grimm to actual Magic, nothing really surprised Aurora anymore. But this... this was something else. "What was that?" she asked.

"A most intriguing side effect," Salem replied. "It seems that along with their fast reproduction, these Grimm are capable of taking the form of their prey."

"But... how?"

Salem turned to Aurora with a smile. "Good question."

Present-day

*BUZZ*

*BUZZ*

Aurora snapped out of her daydream when the buzzing of her Scroll reached all four of her ears. She quickly took it out of her back pocket and looked at a message.

"Five minutes away."

Aurora smiled once again as she looked back at the girls, who had just finished tying up Cinder in metal wire. "This'll hold her, but this wire looks too weak to hang her from the ceiling," said Merri.

"No worries," said Aurora. "Our friends are on their way now. Why don't you and Fauna greet them for me?"

"Gladly." Merri looked over to her sister and nodded before flying off the ground and into the hallway once more. Flora was left alone to watch over the sleeping Maiden while Aurora made sure all cameras were looking at the unfolding fight.

"My word, what an amazing performance from Ms. Polendina!" said Professor Port, who was impressed by Penny's mastery of each sword as they all blocked each of her opponent's attacks.

"Took the words right outta my mouth," said Aurora, who refused to take her eyes off the young girl. "Too bad Saxon wants that Beskar so bad. Speaking of which..." Aurora turned around to Flora, who was lustfully staring at Cinder. The Faunus snapped her fingers to get the girl's attention, who quickly looked away from the Maiden. "You're sure that kid's what you say she is?"

"A hundred percent," Flora replied with a raised finger. The finger soon spawned a Botfly, which flew over to Aurora. "I've been on Cinder's case ever since we met, and I haven't missed a thing. Especially her trying to get a magnet off that redhead."

"And it wasn't a metal plate? I know a Mando with one in his head."

Flora watched the fly return to her finger. "When this little thing bit that girl, all I tasted was Beskar. And she didn't even flinch when I tried a few more times."

Aurora chuckled as she looked back to the screen. "I'll be damned. And here I thought humans ran out of ways to surprise me."

Flora walked over to Aurora with a wide smile. "Trust me when I say this, ma'am... everyone is different." She then licked some blood off her fingers with a small laugh.

The trip out of the broadcast station and mechanical rooms was a short and easy one for both Merri and Fauna. Their return to the arena, however, was proven to be more difficult when Merri stopped right in front of the door.

"Stop," she ordered her sister. She then closed her eyes and smelled the air. "Do you feel that?"

Fauna repeated her sister's actions when she moved against the door. Something was indeed among the air, something that she and her sister could only feel. Every part of her body, human and Botfly, began to feel a sudden, faint attraction to an element not far from where they were. Fauna sensed this element hundreds of times over, and knew exactly what it was.

"Fear," she said calmly. "Someone's afraid."

"Not just someone," said Merri, who moved her hand outside the door, letting two small flies escape her palm. Their vision became shared with hers once she closed her eyes again, allowing her to see three civilians watch Atlesian soldiers run around certain areas. As they walked back to their seats, the civilians couldn't help but feel a sense of dread at the sudden increase of activity among the security guards. And Merri's Grimm nature detected this fear with ease, which caused her to summon the flies back to her palm and look back to her sister. "Everyone."

"Lemme guess," Fauna hummed as she twirled her sickle in hand. "Daddy noticed something was wrong when Cindy told him about our friend?"

"You forgot the part where he tells the friendly neighborhood Atlas soldiers," Merri sarcastically replied. "How do you wanna play this?"

"That depends." Fauna motioned towards the door. "Did you see any of them coming our way?"

"Nope. But they'll come, sooner or later."

"How about we give them a damsel in distress?"

Merri tightened her grip on her sickle as her legs transformed into Botflies and began to raise her in the air. "Only if you're the damsel."

"Then you better get ready."

Merri nodded and flew higher and higher, stopping when she reached the metal ceiling overhead. Fauna then placed the edge of her sickle on her cheek. Taking a deep breath, the girl cut her cheek and slightly winced at the pain. When she felt a warm liquid flow down the rest of her cheek, she stopped cutting and laid down on the floor. "Help!" she screamed. "Help!"

After yelling like this two more times, the door before her finally opened to reveal two of the Atlesian security guards that Merri had seen earlier. When they saw Fauna on the ground, the soldiers immediately ran over and helped her up. "What happened?" one of them asked.

"G-Grimm!" Fauna stuttered as she pointed down the hall, doing an impressive job of acting scared. "Down there! It has my sister!"

"Stay here," the second guard said as she began to move down the hall. When her partner followed her, Fauna looked up at her sister and pointed at the woman. Merri nodded and began to slowly count on her fingers. When she counted her third finger, her entire body transformed into a large mass of flies. The buzzing caught the attention of the soldiers, but they were too late to stop the Grimm from reaching their exposed mouths. Fauna repeated her sister's actions and flew at their mouths, which they used to enter their bodies and begin eating the Atlesians from the inside out.

The Atlesians soon felt life flee from their bodies when they were finally able to let out one combined scream of pain. After that, they were reduced to mere corpses that were left to bleed on the ground. One mass of flies finally escaped from the mouth once more and took Merri's form. The other, however, had yet to make its escape.

"Come on, Fauna," Merri said as she took off a soldier's helmet. "We can finish later."

As soon as she said that, the second mass of flies escaped the second soldier's mouth and took Fauna's form. "Ugh," she groaned. "Always when I'm eating."

"Relax, we'll have more soon." Merri put on the helmet and rubbed her index fingers on the sides, stopping when she felt something she could press down on. "Oh, here we go!" She then pressed the button she felt and cleared her throat. "Looks like this one was a Sergeant, so this should be easy enough." When she spoke again, the voice that escaped her throat wasn't hers; instead, it belonged to the Atlesian she had just partially devoured. "All units, be advised. Orders are to disperse from the landing pad to make room for incoming airships."

"Acknowledged," a voice on the other end replied.

Merri then ripped off the helmet and tossed it aside. She and Fauna then moved back to the door, where they could hear heavy footsteps from the other side. Merri peaked her head out and saw multiple soldiers leaving. Smiling and turning back to Fauna, she walked back towards the bodies and began to drag one into a closet. "Help me get rid of these things," she ordered.

"Come on, Merri," she said as she walked over to the second body. "We can't just leave unfinished business like this. The man-thing was especially delicious."

Merri dropped her body into the closet and gestured for her sister to follow. "Work and play don't mix, sis. Now, let's go."

"Fine." Fauna impulsively threw the body into the closet, where it easily fell on top of the other one. "All this better be worth it, though."

"Of course it is." Merri took her sister's hand and began to walk outside the mechanical area of Amity Colosseum. "Remember, we're doing this for Mother. If anyone deserves hard work like we're doing, it's her."

Fauna's frown slowly turned into a small smirk at Merri's words. "Yeah, you're right," she relented. "You think she'll be proud of us? Once she sees what we all did?"

"Absolutely," her sister replied. "I'm already proud of you and Flora. But not as proud as I'll be when we rip that bastard's head off."

"Took the words right outta my mouth."

Years ago

The lack of Grimm and her servant had left a quiet, empty castle for Salem one night. On nights like these, she couldn't help but think about all the other times she had been left alone. The first, and longest time, was her first sixteen years alive on Remnant. Cast away from the outside world, cast away from anything but a stone-cold room for companionship. The next time was when the Gods had left her alone and cursed to walk the surface of the world forever. The last, and most tragic one of all, was when she started her secret war with Ozma. All of those times were filled with nothing but hopelessness and despair, feelings that were no strangers to the Grimm Queen.

But tonight was going to be different.

Salem had made preparations for this evening when Aurora had left for Atlas, to meet with the Queen's newest servant. She wasn't expected to return until morning, which left Salem to do whatever she pleased. And tonight, she wanted nothing more than to conduct a second experiment with her latest creation; the Botflies.

True to her word, Salem had indeed created the new Grimm with another one of her servants. He was one of many who lived, or rather was forced to live, in the bowels of the crystal castle. Together, they used an old art of darkness to create a new form of Grimm. He was fairly rewarded, and Salem herself was rewarded for her efforts when she used her creation to kill the fool of a scientist.

The side effects, however, were even more rewarding to Salem. She was impressed by what she witnessed with Aurora, but slightly on edge at the same time. When they last spoke, he said that he possessed no explanation for the phenomenon. Skeptical of the claim and expecting betrayal at a moment's notice, Salem made sure to keep a close eye on the man who proclaimed himself as her equal. The time for paranoia, however, passed quickly when Salem discovered her hold on the Botflies was strong, just like her hold on every Creature of Grimm.

So instead of concerning herself with immediate betrayal, Salem found herself preoccupied with the miracle the small Grimm had performed; the reconstruction and "resurrection" of Oswald Spencer. The Queen was sure that if they were given enough time, the Botflies would have been able to transform themselves into a perfect copy of Spencer. If his tongue was formed before he was destroyed, Salem was sure the mass of flies would be able to sound like him too. And it was this way of thinking that eventually gave Salem an idea.

An awful idea.

The Botflies had given Salem a wonderful, awful idea.

After she spent enough time reassuring herself that her plan would work, Salem took every living Botfly and larvae she could find and placed them in another jar. She then carried that jar with her when she made a long trek throughout her castle. This journey was halted when Salem ascended a flight of stairs and stopped at a golden door. She had been to this door before, but she couldn't remember when the last time was. It was a room that was meant for Salem and Salem alone; Aurora and past servants learned that lesson well when they ventured throughout the castle. Of course, they lacked the ability to open the door; this was designed for only Salem to do when she simply pressed her palm on the metal.

The door soon began to shine a red light in various places. The gold surrounding these shining parts began to rise above the ground and disappear into the ceiling. Soon enough, the shining pieces followed as the unnatural door fully opened. Inside was a large room that contained four things.

The first was an old, decaying painting that showed a reflection of Salem with four little girls by her side.

The others were three stone coffins that had been untouched for centuries.

The night Ozma and Salem had begun their war against each other, the four young girls in the painting were caught in the middle. And just as he died for the second time in his life, the four girls tragically passed away before him. When Salem was once again alone with the dead, her heart ached at the atrocity Ozma had created before his passing. After spending what felt like an eternity crying and screaming at the loss of the girls, Salem did what she knew was right; she created three coffins from the rubble of her old home for each child. She would have made a fourth one as well, if only there had been anything left to bury.

When the small service she held passed, Salem decided to make a new home in the Land of Darkness and put the children to rest there. She had previously promised herself to never touch the coffins again and to never utter the names she had given them, for doing either of those things would only cause more pain and more suffering. One last promise she made was to never tell Ozma what happened to the bodies when he reincarnated; revenge would be all the better that way.

But now, Salem was ready to break one of the promises she made. With a heavy heart, Salem placed the jar of flies down and moved to the first casket. Her plan was to destroy the cover and let the Botflies take hold of the body inside. It was simplicity itself, but Salem found it extremely difficult to move her hands to perform the task. She didn't want to look inside, to be reminded of the loss she suffered long ago. But if there was going to be any kind of relief in the cruel world she lived in, Salem knew this would be the only way.

"Let the Gods have their own children," Salem cursed. "Let the Gods have all the wretched people they want and kill them all." She formed two fists and thrust her arms up as she felt tears fall down her face. "The girls are mine!"

*BAM*

The top of the first casket exploded and rubble filled the room. A horrible stench quickly filled the room and caused Salem to look away. She had successfully opened the casket, but didn't have the heart to look inside. Instead, she picked up her jar and threw it against the wall. As soon as she heard the glass shatter and the Grimm fly across the room, Salem quickly left and closed the door behind her.

Her crying ceased immediately after she left the room. With a heavy sigh, Salem dried her eyes and decided to wait outside the door. She could hear the flies eating... whatever remained in the coffin. If the product of this experiment was what she hoped, Salem decided that she would open the other coffins once she had enough Botfiles.

So she waited.

And waited.

And waited.

And waited.

"Uuuhhhh..."

The waiting was put to a halt when Salem heard the familiar moan. Her heart skipped a beat when the moan sounded, and it soon became filled with a feeling Salem hadn't felt in a long time: joy.

Salem quickly turned around and prepared to open the golden door once more, but stopped herself just as quickly. Logic triumphed over emotion when Salem remembered what she saw the last time she heard a moan like that. She recalled the holes in Spencer's body, the flies still trying to take form, and the lack of a tongue. Whatever laid beyond that door was no little girl. Not yet, at least.

So Salem waited again.

"Uuhhh..."

And waited.

"Uuuhh... er..."

And waited.

"Muhh... er..."

And waited.

"Mu... her..."

And then she heard it. As clear as day.

"Mo... ther..."

Present-day

Merri and Fauna quickly found themselves at the landing pad of Amity Colosseum. There, they simply avoided detection while waiting for the company Aurora promised was coming. While doing so, Fauna had her eyes on her Scroll, which was capturing Penny's fight against her combatant.

"Wow, she's good," she said as she watched Penny deflect multiple bullets with her swords. After watching her combatant's Aura approach closer to the red, she turned back to her sister. "We're still sticking with the plan, right? To get their attention?"

"That's right," Merri replied as she kept her eyes on the vast distance in front of her. "I know what you're thinking. And yes, I could make that thing serve us. But Saxon would throw a fit if he doesn't get what he wants. Again."

"Actually, I was thinking they better get here soon. Her opponent is almost in the red."

Merri turned around to see her sister holding her Scroll towards her, which showed that Penny was almost finished with her opponent. "Oh," she replied as she turned around. "No worries about that. Think that's them now."

Fauna walked over to her sister to see two airships approaching the landing pad. As they backed up, Fauna asked another question. "You really think you can change that tin-can?"

"It would take some time," Merri admitted. "But I didn't spend the majority of my life daydreaming when I worked with Watts on his projects. I mean, how did you think I figured out that Atlas helmet so fast?"

"That's true." Fauna looked at her Scroll and playfully sighed. "Mother would say that it would be wasted potential."

"Well, we can't always get what we want. But if we try hard enough, we sometimes find what we need. Like this." Merri pointed back to the airships, which had just landed in front of the two girls. The doors on them began to open and the sisters prepared to greet the company that had arrived.

"Wow, that was fast."

Merri and Fauna quickly turned around to see two more Atlas security guards approach the landing pad. "We could use some more people on the ground, but orders are orders," one of them said.

The second stopped walking when he got a good look at the two girls in front of the ships. "Hey, what are you doing out here?" he asked.

"..."

Merri and Fauna quickly looked at each other while trying to think of an answer. Before they could say anything, the first guard quickly recognized the two girls in front of them. "Hey, wait a minute," he said. "I've seen your faces!"

The second guard quickly followed his partner's lead. "You're those Blair sisters!" he said as he lifted his gun. "The General needs you to come with-!"

*BANG*

*BANG*

Two red blasts barely flew past the heads of Merri and Fauna and made their way directly towards the soldiers. One blast hit a helmet while the other hit a chest plate, but the result was the same; both guards lifelessly fell to the ground.

"Gotta react faster than that, girls."

Merri and Fauna turned around once more to see a familiar man walk out of the airship. He was in a suit of Mandalorian armor, painted in both red and white. In his arms was a large rifle, one with modified Dust rounds and imposing to the ordinary people of Remnant. Merri and Fauna, however, weren't afraid. They felt nothing but pleased to see their comrade once again.

"Thanks, Saxon," Merri bitterly replied, disappointed that she couldn't take care of the problem beforehand.

Gar Saxon simply walked past both girls while being followed by half a dozen of his Mandalorians. Fauna looked back at them and noticed something off. "Is that it?" she asked. "Where are the others? What went wrong?"

Saxon stopped walking and turned back to the young girl. "Heavier resistance than expected," he said. He then reached into his belt and took out a large black ring, something that could be worn on a finger. "But your tool here worked like a charm." He then threw the ring to Merri, who caught it quickly. "The security system was a joke with this."

"So it worked?" Merri asked. "You have them?"

Saxon pointed over to the next airship. "We may have lost some people on that island... but we gained far more than we could have dreamed."

Merri and Fauna turned around once again to see more Mandalorians exit the other airship. A majority of them were wearing gray armor with dark blue accents, while only a few wore silver-white armor with red accents. All the armor wasn't entirely made of Beskar, but it still served the purpose it struck to impose: fear.

One Mandalorian in particular, a man in gray and blue armor with a cape on his shoulder, was especially unhappy about the armor he was wearing. He longed for a full suit of Beskar, but had to make due after he and his allies escaped a maximum security prison off the coast of Vale. But in time, he would have what he desired. And it would make wearing a false suit worth it.

"Pre Vizsla," Merri addressed the Mandalorian with a curtsy. Fauna followed her sister's actions and remained silent. "It is an honor to finally meet you in person."

"So it was you?" Vizsla asked the girls. "The one who sent the bugs to me?"

Fauna stood up straight and held out her palm, which created multiple Botflies that flew around the Mandalorian. "We are," she replied calmly. "It's lucky you had a window in that cell of yours."

"Indeed."

Vizsla watched the Botflies fly around him, unafraid of pain. When he and his allies were arrested long ago, he received special visits from insects that could speak in his ears. They told him that revenge could be accomplished with their help; not just for being arrested and having his armor taken from him, but also for every sin the Kingdoms committed against the Mandalorians. Eager to leave the island and even more eager to make the world pay, Vizsla took the offer in a heartbeat and patiently waited for the day his plan would begin.

And now that day had come.

"Is everything ready?" Vizsla asked the girls.

"We've done our part," Merri said as she began to walk towards the arena. "The rest depends on you. Just say the word and we'll begin."

"And everything else that follows?"

"Exactly as planned. They just need a spark."

Vizsla nodded and turned to his Mandalorians. "Get into position," he ordered. "If you're spotted, you know what to do." The Mandalorians of Death Watch immediately obeyed and moved closer to the arena. A majority of them didn't have jet packs, but the ones that did quickly took to the air.

"You heard him," Saxon said to his Mandalorians. "Get in position." His followers followed this order and dispersed. "That goes for you two, ladies."

"Consider it done," said Merri, who began to walk away. "Oh, by the way." She stopped and handed a small piece of metal to Saxon. "Mother made a promise to you."

Saxon quickly took the metal and ignited the blade. He nodded and watched the girls run away, oblivious to the fact that Vizsla was watching him hold the sword with envy.

But once Saxon deactivated the sword, he and Vizsla watched the plan begin to unfold with pride. "Clan Saxon and Clan Vizsla working together. How long has it been since someone witnessed this?"

"Too long," Vizsla answered as he waved at the airship he got off. It immediately took flight along with the other one. "Perhaps not since the Great War. And it's Death Watch now."

"A fitting name. Given what's going to happen tonight. And to think this will only the beginning."

Vizsla nodded as he continued his march into the arena. Everyone was so focused on the fight that the grounds both Mandalorians walked on was undisturbed. The only thing that disturbed the place was the broken silence.

"You said you know those girls," Vizsla stated. "Do you trust them?"

"Fighting?" Saxon asked. "No. But going through with this plan? Yes."

"What about their master?"

"When you meet her, you'll understand. But let me leave you with some advice; do not doubt her."

There were many things Vizsla doubted, but this plan wasn't one of them. He questioned the idea of Gar Saxon holding the Darksaber, something his ancestor once wielded. But he wouldn't let this small discomfort blind him from his mission.

In time, if he played his cards right, the Darksaber would belong to him and him alone.

"This is it, folks! One more strike, and it's anyone's game!"

The stakes were indeed this high for Penny Polendina and her opponent. Moments ago, she was successfully winning her singles round in the Vytal Festival tournament. Her opponent was almost out of Aura, but had used just a portion of his Semblance to get close enough and strike multiple blows to Penny's torso. Now, she was dangerously close to going into her Aura's red zone. But she was far from ready to give up.

"I can do this," she thought to herself. "The General believes in me. Cinder believes in me." After a few moments of concentration, Penny raised her blades behind her head and pointed the tips at the boy in front of her. The young man got into a running position and quickly charged. Penny immediately sent all of her swords flying at her opponent, who easily slid and dodged the blades.

However, Penny calculated a move like this. She even calculated how quickly she would need to send her swords back towards her for them to strike at the unsuspecting man. Her calculations proved to be nothing less than perfect when her swords quickly moved across the ground and struck the boy across his protected head and shoulder.

This protection, however, was brief when his Aura immediately broke.

"And Penny Polendina is the victor of the match!" Professor Port shouted through his microphone. Applause soon followed as Penny reveled in her victory. She felt true pride when she realized her inner thoughts were true. If the General and Cinder were watching, Penny knew they would be proud. Of course, she felt sorry that her opponent worked so hard to lose in the first singles round. Which was why she was ready to help him up off the ground.

"And that concludes the first duel in the singles round!" said Doctor Oobleck. "Please leave the Colosseum in a-!"

*BANG*

A collective gasp echoed throughout Amity Colosseum when the sound of a gunshot died down. Professor Port and Doctor Oobleck were also taken aback by the sound.

"Where did that come from?" Oobleck asked as he looked at the stands.

"I couldn't see!" Port answered. Both he and Oobleck were looking at the vast audience of Amity Colosseum when the fight ended. But both of them recognized the sound of a gun firing, and they were equally concerned. "Is anyone injured? I'll put the medics on-No!"

Both the moderators set their eyes on the lowering platform that Penny and her opponent were standing on. However, it was only Penny who was standing on it. The young student she was fighting was unnaturally lying on the ground. And if one looked closely enough, which was what all the spectators were doing, they could see blood pouring onto the metal.

Someone had just shot a defenseless child in front of hundreds of people.

Both the moderators began to scramble as they attempted to calm the situation. "Broadcast, what are you doing?!" Oobleck shouted as he placed two fingers on an earpiece he was wearing. "Kill the feed!"

"So sorry, gentlemen," a feminine voice responded on the other end. "But as you might have guessed, there's been a change in tonight's program."

"What?! Who is this?!"

"Our first order of business... firing the moderators."

Footsteps from behind caused both teachers to turn to the doorway behind them. Nothing could prepare them for the white and gray Mandalorians that stepped inside and grabbed them. The gray one drove his head towards Oobleck, knocking him out faster than the man could react. The white one, who was stronger than he appeared, grabbed Port's shirt and threw him out the window.

The professor's screams reached every ear in the stands, causing people to panic. Penny simply stood at a standstill when following the falling man caused her to lay eyes on the body at her feet. The spectators, however, were not in a state of shock that prevented them from trying to run. But as they ran to whatever exit they could find, teams of three Mandalorians blocked their path.

The white Mandalorian in the moderator room picked up the microphone before him and spoke. "Ladies and gentlemen, you will stay exactly where you are if you value your lives," he said, brining a semblance of order amongst the crowd. "And every soldier will give their weapons to our comrades if they don't want innocent blood on their hands."

While the Mandalorian was talking and watching the civilians stop running, his partner was looking around through a range finder. He could see the sniper that successfully landed the shot at the student in the arena, and he also saw the multiple Atlesian soldiers standing their ground. As he looked at the rest of the soldiers and spectators, his range finder landed on a black haired man in a white uniform at the edge of the arena, speaking through an earpiece.

"New target," the Death Watch Mandalorian said as he raised his range finder and pressed the side of his helmet. "General Ironwood, running along the edge of the arena. Northeast of your position."

"I got him," a voice said on the other end.

*BANG*

A red blast fell from the top of the arena and flew like lightning to General Ironwood's chest. Once again, people were scared of the lack of the Hard-Light Shield, along with the man firing the gun. But the second shot from an apparent sniper caused most of the crowd to drop to the floor while the soldiers tried to see where the shot came from. One woman, a blonde in white with a cape, kneeled down to General Ironwood and looked at his chest.

"I got eyes on the woman," the sniper said through his radio.

"Hold your fire," said the gray Mandalorian. "Point's being made."

"Now you have your General's blood on your hands," said the white Mandalorian. "How much more do you want to see shed?"

"..."

After what felt like an eternity, and after seeing some Mandalorians begin to take hostages, the security guards finally relented and surrendered their weapons. They were then made to kneel against whatever wall was closest to them.

"What is it you people want?" one soldier asked as she was pushed against a wall.

"You'll find out soon enough," said her captor, a Death Watch Mandalorian. Like the rest of his comrades, their attention was on the soldiers and as many civilians they could see.

Their attention to detail, however, wasn't captured on the people closest to the arena, where Glynda Goodwitch was kneeling down to Ironwood.

"James!" she whispered as she lightly moved his face upwards. "Stay awake, James!" She looked down at the blast mark on his chest, where she could see both metal and flesh beneath the white uniform. A light in the center of the chest plate was flashing blue and red, which could only mean one thing for the General: nothing good.

*REEEE*

Electronic feedback travelled throughout the entire arena, causing everyone to quickly cover their ears. Once the sound died down, Glynda looked up to the moderator room. This room was being captured by every camera as well, displaying another gray and blue Mandalorian on the screen.

"People of Remnant, please attend carefully," the Mandalorian said in a voice that was vaguely familiar to Goodwitch. "This message is vital to the future of you all. I..." The Mandalorian removed his helmet, revealing a man with shaved blonde hair and a scar on his cheek. "Am Pre Vizsla. Leader of Death Watch."

"Vizsla?!" Glynda asked herself in shock. "But... he should be in prison!"

"And now... I am standing with the man who became leader of all Mandalorians," said Vizsla. Another Mandalorian walked in the room, carrying a dark black sword above his head. "For all Mandalorians who can hear me, do not deceive yourselves with doubt. This is indeed the Darksaber, and Gar Saxon has laid successful claim to it moments ago. Once again, I ask for your attention." Saxon lowered the blade and listens to Vizsla speak once again. "For almost seventy years ago, the people have celebrated the end of the Great War. A war that this Kingdom fought with our ancestors, a war your ancestors could not win without Mandalore. We sacrificed our children, our continent, our future. And I ask you all... for what?"

"..."

Everyone was silent and remained as still as statues when they watched and listened to Pre Vizsla. Not just in Vale, but people around the world sat in front of their televisions and watched the Mandalorian make his speech. Even Willow and Weiss did nothing but listen to him.

"My ancestor, Tarre Vizsla, agreed to fight with Vale and Vacuo, seeking no remuneration and no repayment," the Mandalorian said on the Schnee's television. "He chose to break neutrality in order to abolish past oppression and save 'individualism'. And how was his mercy rewarded? With a ruined civilization, the continued Atlesian efforts of stealing resources from our people, and the collective ignorance of each Kingdom when it came to Mandalore. I stand before you to proudly proclaim that this ignorance ends tonight."

Weiss finally looked up to her mother, who was shaking her Scroll in desperation. "Mother?" she asked. "What is he talking about?"

"Winter, pick up!" Willow shouted to her Scroll, ignoring her other daughter in the process. "Please!"

The ringing of the device fell onto deaf ears, as Winter was in an airship going back to Atlas. The trip, however, was delayed when she and the pilot were captivated by the gunfire and the continued speech.

"The ignorance and sins of each Kingdom will be ignored no longer!" Saxon screamed. "The first, and most unforgivable, will be punished now! Look there, in the arena!" The screen changed from the Mandalorians to Penny in the arena.

"The kid?" the pilot asked out loud. "What the hell are they talking about?" He didn't know it, but his passenger had the answer he was looking for.

"Do they know about Penny?" Winter thought to herself. "But that means... Oh, no."

The screen showed Penny trying to get out of the arena, but she was stopped by five Mandalorians who flew into the arena. When she prepared to send her swords out from behind her back, a blast from a pistol stopped her and broke her Aura. Multiple wires then wrapped around her arms, legs, and torso.

And then the Mandalorians pulled with all their might.

Penny screamed as she fought back against the wires. Her first thought was to summon her swords and cut the wires, but a second attempt was rewarded with a painful blast to her back from the sniper. More pressure was built on the wires, which were beginning to sink into Penny's skin. Her arms and legs began to give way as Penny screamed in desperation. Her eyes began to flash warnings to her, but there was nothing she could do.

She was doomed.

*SNAP*

*CRACK*

The audience gasped once again as multiple people turned away in horror. The ones who stared, however, were gifted with the truth about Penny's nature when wire and sparks escaped Penny's body.

"The Kingdom of Mantle stole enough Beskar to create their weapons, their ships, and now they use it to create a soldier disguised as a little girl," said Vizsla. "The Grimm can tell no difference, so what was Atlas trying to fight? The Mandalorians? The other Kingdoms?"

"Well, if it's a war they want... we are finally ready to grant their request," said Saxon. "From this moment on... none of you are safe."

A loud alarm began to ring out through every speaker in Amity Colosseum, saying one thing. "Alert. Incoming Grimm attack. Threat level: Nine. Please seek shelter in a calm and orderly manner."

There was nothing calm and orderly to be seen in the crowd of people that began to run out of their seats. The Mandalorians, who had been prepared to let the Grimm finish them off, allowed the people to run towards the nearest exits. After all, the running would all be in vain. And both teams of Mandalorians had their eyes on a bigger prize for the start of their war.

Vizsla, though still adamant about claiming the Darksaber later, looked to Saxon and smiled under his helmet.

"It has begun."

TheCourtofTalons · Nov 21, 2023

Chapter 39: The Attack

Months ago

The blood-colored lands and skies that laid before the Grimm Queen served as a reminder that soon the rest of the world would follow this example. She was currently meeting with Gar Saxon and Aurora, her loyal subjects who had devoted their lives to her goal; to tear down the world beyond the Land of Darkness and the people inhabiting it.

And now, Salem had just told her minions that the plan was ready to begin.

"Where do we strike?" Saxon crossly asked. "And when?"

"Beacon Academy. Now." Salem smiled wider at the idea as her thoughts turned inward. Soon, everything Ozpin built would all be burned away. And soon, he would burn with it.

*CLICK*

*CLACK*

*CLICK*

*CLACK*

An unnatural sound of something clicking gained the attention of Aurora and Saxon. They turned to see a familiar Grimm float into the meeting room; a domed creature with multiple red tentacles beneath it. A Seer.

The Seer stopped floating in the air when it approached Salem's right side and made several more clicking noises.

"Perfect," Salem said as she turned around. "Aurora, Saxon. Stay where you are, you're needed." Salem turned to the Seer. "Make contact."

The red smoke inside the Seer's dome began to spin and dissipate. Saxon and Aurora moved closer to see that three new faces had taken the place of the smoke. All of the faces appeared to belong to teenaged girls. Their faces were a mixture of pale and caucasian skin, as if they were in the middle of putting an excessive amount of makeup on their faces. A few minutes after, all three girls stepped back to show themselves entirely.

"Ah, there you are," Salem said with a soft smile. "Hello, girls."

All three girls quickly performed a curtsy and briefly lowered their heads. "Hello, Mother," all three said.

Salem noticed that the room the girls were standing in appeared to be a bedroom of sorts. "Are you currently at Beacon Academy?"

"Yes, Mother," said the blonde girl. "As of today, all three of us are students at this 'prestigious' school."

"Are any of you suspected to be more than meets the eye?"

"No, Mother. We have hidden ourselves to the best of our ability."

Salem stopped smiling. "The best of your ability," she repeated. "Are you under duress? Have you revealed your true forms?"

"No, Mother. We still have the... provisions we brought here."

"Ah. So you've been eating." All three girls nodded in response. "Good. Now pay attention." Salem turned to the red Mandalorian. "Surely you remember my daughters, Saxon."

"Yes, Your Grace," Saxon confirmed. He knew of the Grimm-Human hybrids that Salem called her "children." He saw their true forms before, and only heard of Salem's experiments once. "Aurora introduced me when I first came here. We oversaw their training together."

Aurora was also someone who remembered Salem's daughters. Whenever she was at the castle and not training, she served as a guardian and supervisor to the children as they grew and while Salem was preoccupied with other matters. She had her suspicions as to why Salem gave her this task; her main suspicion was that Salem knew that she hated serving and caring for others. And this hatred would help her grow stronger in her training. But Aurora said nothing about this, and obeyed every order Salem gave her.

"Yes," Salem confirmed Saxon's statement. "It was this training that allowed them to pass Ozpin's examinations and infiltrate Beacon Academy. And now, they will be keeping an eye on our dear Fall Maiden. Aurora will help them, once her tasks are complete." Salem turned to the Faunus. "When my daughters befriend young Cinder, you will work with them to sabotage her. Make her vulnerable, and break whatever relationships she has made over the years."

"As you wish, Your Grace," Aurora replied calmly.

Salem turned to the Mandalorian next. "Saxon, my children will assist you as well," she said. "They will use a Chill I have provided them to bring you new recruits to your clan. You will travel to Mountain Glenn and establish a temporary base there. And when the time is right, you will lead my creatures to the heart of Vale."

"Consider it done," Saxon said with a nod.

Salem turned back to the Seer. "Girls, what of that other task I assigned you? Were you able to recruit the Mandalorians I spoke of?"

The brunette stepped forward and quickly glanced around the room. She then opened her palm to let a few Botflies fly freely. "Yes, Mother," she said. "We found their leader imprisoned on an island off the coast of Vale. We've been in contact ever since."

"And?"

"He agrees to our terms, only if we help him and his allies escape."

"Excellent. You will give Saxon all the details of this prison and he will free Death Watch. Only then will we be able to bring Vale to its knees. Now, break contact and destroy your Seer. Aurora will contact you when she arrives in Vale."

All three girls curtsied once again. "Yes, Mother," they said. The blonde moved closer to the Seer.

"One more thing, Merriweather," Salem ordered. "You're in charge of your sisters until you return. And I don't believe I need to remind you how important this is." Salem softly smiled. "Now... make me proud, darling."

Merriweather smiled. "Yes, of course," she replied. "Thank you, Mother."

Present

"Not long after that, we overheard Ozpin planning to make you a student at Beacon. When I had the idea to get us closer to you, my sisters took the offer in a heartbeat. I know what you're thinking, 'Why not just stick with a team of three?' It was tempting, you know. All that makeup and staying human for a while was a real pain in the ass. But it was for Mother, after all. And as long as we kept eating, we could stay like this for days."

Flora was waiting in the broadcast control room with Aurora and a now awakened Cinder. To make sure she wouldn't be trying to escape, and to simply entertain herself, Flora decided to explain how she and her sisters had fooled her for months. Throughout it all, Flora could feel Cinder's heart break and practically smell the salt from her tears. All of this pain was worth staying behind and risking her life to guard the Fall Maiden.

"Oh, and speaking of mothers, I think you'd like to know that we never really found yours," Flora continued. "When we told Aurora here about how you were looking for your parents, she took it upon herself to hit up some of her 'underworld contacts,' and all that crap. Long story short, she found a con-artist who would help for the right price."

Cinder continued to weep as she learned the truth about her "team" and "mother." Her heart was indeed broken, but defiance and a fighting spirit began to fill the void as she looked up at Flora. "I'm going to tell everyone what you did to Winter!" she boldly promised. "How you helped Saxon almost destroy Vale!" Cinder now realized their collaboration was the reason the Blair sisters didn't want to go to Mountain Glenn on their training mission. And she was sure they managed to warn Saxon when they found the underground tunnels.

Flora was disappointed that she had yet to break Cinder's fighting spirit. But that didn't stop her from trying again. "Yeah, that Chill really came in handy," she said as she played with her sickle. "When Mountain Glenn became a bust, we had to use it a different way. It doesn't really matter who you tell, though. Everyone's gonna have bigger problems than one Grimm."

Just as she said this, a loud siren filled the room and an electronic voice rang out. "Alert. Incoming Grimm attack. Threat level: Nine. Please seek shelter in a calm and orderly manner."

The siren continued to sound as Aurora took over for Flora. "C'mon, kid," she said as she grabbed her off the ground and brought her to the multiple screens of the broadcast room. There, Cinder could see both Grimm and Mandalorians in the arena. One large Nevermore was currently striking the the large shield overhead while the Mandalorians were executing both civilians and soldiers. And in the middle of it all was a torn body being picked by the Mandalorians.

"Penny..." Cinder whispered, silently mourning the loss of her friend. Although she didn't know Penny that long, and had only just begun to understand her personally, Cinder had no reasonnot to call Penny her friend. She was kind, cheerful, and unlike anyone Cinder ever met before.

And they took her away, just to make a statement.

Cinder's eyes began to burn, as did her hands. "You... You monsters!" she screamed as she snapped her head at Aurora and Flora. The wire holding her in place began to break from the power channeled through her hands.

But Aurora grabbed her neck and quickly threw Cinder against a wall. And instead of allowing her to recover, Aurora took a metal hilt off her waist and ignited an orange light right in front of Cinder's face.

The reaction on Cinder's face told Aurora that she had the young girl's attention. More specifically, her attention was on the lightsaber. "Don't move, and don't try to use those powers again," she ordered. "Just listen to us."

Flora moved up to Aurora and looked down at Cinder. "The Grimm and those Mandalorians are ready to kill everyone in this arena," she said. "And then we'll be ready to move to Beacon and kill anyone who stands in our way. Imagine it, Cinder... all the panic and fear Vizsla and Saxon just instilled on the students there." Flora breathed in through her nose and let out a content sigh. "I can feel it all the way up here. And trust me... it's gonna get a lot worse."

Aurora kept the lightsaber blade close to Cinders neck. "But... they can survive with your help," she said, earning a quick glance of confusion from the young girl. "Like I said, when we met all those years ago, I just want one thing from you." Sadistic glee came to reveal itself when the Faunus smiled a crooked smile. "One itty bitty thing; the power of the Fall Maiden."

"..."

Aurora moved her other hand out and showed Cinder her empty palm. Just then, a small black bug emerged from a hole that formed in her palm. The creature stirred and clicked as it looked upon Cinder's face.

"Is that... a beetle?" Cinder asked, disgusted by the sight.

"A generous gift from Her Grace," Aurora explained. "It consumes and gives Aura to anyone or anything in its presence. I've had to give the triplets some Aura from time to time, and the power I save for myself helps light this weapon. Now it's gonna help me get those powers of yours."

Cinder's eyes quickly showed fire as she stared at the beetle. "You think I'm going to give them up without a fight?" she asked. "Tied up or not?"

Aurora stopped smiling. "Bitch, please. We all know you're a fighter. Just like we know all those people are going to die because of you." The smile returned when she heard Cinder softly gasp. "Yeah, that's right. So here's the deal; if you don't fight back, we'll give everyone at Beacon a head start. The academy's gonna burn, but nobody will die. The same can go for Amity."

Cinder looked back at the screens, seeing the Nevermore continue to strike the failing shield and the Mandalorians firing at both soldiers and innocent people. The deaths were more than regrettable to her, but not as scary as Salem having the power of the Fall Maiden. Truly, Cinder was stuck between a rock and a hard place.

But Aurora and Flora were far from ready to give up so easily. "But if you fight, it'll just make this longer," said Flora. "Either way, we'll get the powers just like we got your precious Darksaber. Hell, your dad practically handed it to us when he gave it to you."

"..."

Flora managed to overhear everything Djarin said to Cinder when she was spying on her with a Botfly. And she knew exactly how to twist the offer the Mandalorian gave. "Every Mandalorian knows the burden that comes with the sword," she began. "He carried it for five years and did nothing about it. Don't you get it? He never wanted the responsibility. And when he saw his chance to abandon it, he took it in a heartbeat. Know what I mean?"

"...No," Cinder whispered. She finally turned back to her enemies. "No, he didn't do that. He wouldn't."

"You think?" Flora asked as she titled her head. "When you thought you found your mother, that's all you wanted to talk about, even to him. And then you stopped talking to him when you thought he killed your real dad. You wouldn't even let him talk to you about it."

"No, I didn't-"

"And when he tried to help you again, you stopped talking when you hit a bump in the road. And when a third time came up, he saw his chance." Flora chuckled. "The 'Way of the Maiden' my ass, this was payback. Dumping everything on you just to make himself feel better." She then kneeled down to Cinder. "Lemme tell you something about fathers, Cinder; they let you down. They may say they love you or they'll always protect you, but it's all bullshit."

"Some of them don't even say anything," said Aurora, who mimicked Flora's kneeling. "They don't leave you anything either; they just leave you alone."

Flora nodded as she continued to stare at Cinder. "And we can't blame Djarin for this one. I mean, after everything you did... how could we?"

"..."

Cinder looked down in shame with every word the disciples of Salem said to her. They were right about everything she did to Djarin, and how ready she was to believe everything some woman she just met was saying. Of course she regretted everything, but she couldn't remember if she apologized or not. Even if she did, this was just like the question she asked herself not long ago; how could she undo so much hate?

And now, in the end... Cinder was all alone. She had no friends, she had no family, and she had no respect. Not even for herself.

"So what do you say, kid?" Aurora asked with an extended palm. "You really wanna hash this out? Or do the right thing?"

"..."

*BOOM*

An explosion from the screens caught everyone's attention. Cinder didn't know what to make of it, but Flora and Aurora were thinking that the Mandalorians were starting to destroy Amity Colosseum.

However, they quickly noticed that something was missing.

"Wasn't there a Nevermore on the ceiling a second ago?" Flora whispered. Just as she asked that, both she and Aurora saw a strange kind of airship fly overhead and begin firing on the Grimm and Mandalorians.

"Get this shield down now!" an electronic voice rang through Aurora's human ear.

The Faunus quickly looked over to Flora and moved her head to the door. The girl's body then transformed in a mass of flies and flew into an air duct above.

"Sorry about that," Aurora said as she turned around with her lightsaber in hand. "Now, where were-Huh?"

Cinder was gone.

Din Djarin was still flying the prototype fighter when he found himself at Amity Colosseum. Before he could land, however, he and Qrow found themselves under fire by Mandalorians who were watching the landing pad. Among them were two female Mandalorians, one in dark red armor and another in gray and blue armor. Djarin had no idea who the red one was, but he recognized the other instantly.

"No, it can't be," he said as he looked out the cockpit window.

*CAW*

*CAW*

Djarin looked at the bird resting on his lap. While he couldn't understand the noises, Djarin's intuition was telling him that Qrow was trying to ask what was wrong.

"Bo-Katan, another Mandalorian I knew," he explained. "She's here, she's helping them." Just as he said that, Djarin was forced to move the ship to the left to avoid Bo-Katan from hitting him.

*CAW*

*CAW*

"I don't know why! It might have to do with the Darksaber! We'll worry about that when we get outta here!"

*BEEP*

*BEEP*

*BEEP*

The radar near the controls began to pick up more than two things flying around the ship. When he heard an inhuman screeching, Djarin looked out the window to see that a swarm of flying Grimm were flying straight towards Amity. A large Nevermore was being followed by what appeared to be a hundred Griffons.

The intimidating sight quickly became unimportant when something hit the side of the airship. Djarin and Qrow quickly looked to see Bo-Katan flying next to him with her hand on the side of the helmet.

"I know you can hear me, Djarin," a voice said in the Mandalorian's helmet. "I still have your frequency from the last time we met."

Djarin quickly remembered that this was true, and saw an opportunity to get much needed information. "What are you doing, Kryze?" he inquired with a growl. "Why are you helping the Saxons?"

"For the same thing, the only thing that binds you and I together; the future of Mandalore and her people."

It didn't take a genius to see that Bo-Katan had finally snapped. "I knew that land was cursed, Bo-Katan. And now you've been cursed along with it."

"That's easy for you to say! You still have your band of zealots to rely on, but I'm the last of my line! And I'm honor-bound to see my ancestors' mission successful. By any means necessary."

"Honor-bound? You don't know the meaning of those words."

"No? Then why am I trying to save your life when I have a Kingdom to punish? Now listen; without you, no one would even believe the Darksaber still existed, let alone back with the Mandalorians. The fact you held it for five years and did nothing with it proves we need a true leader."

"I don't have the sword, Bo-Katan. But you're right. We do need a leader. Someone who's better than both of us, someone who isn't bound to either of our old ways." Djarin pointed to Amity while avoiding Grimm. "She's down there now, and I'm sure she's doing everything in her power to save anyone and everyone she can. Stop this, and we can help her too."

"I'm not talking about the kid, Djarin," Bo-Katan argued. "I met with the Mandalorians you betrayed, a few survivors from Vytal. They told me their leader, Pre Vizsla, was the true Mand'alor. And I knew they were right. Just like I knew I had to help him escape."

"Vizsla's a warlord! He doesn't care about you!"

"I don't care about me either! I care about Mandalore. Which is why I'm giving you a chance. It's time for us to stop fighting each other, Djarin. Help us, fight for us. And not only will we let you live, but you can join us at the court of the Mand'alor."

*CAW*

*CAW*

Djarin wasn't sure if Qrow was telling him not to listen to Bo-Katan or to watch out for the Nevermore that was currently pounding at Amity's ceiling. Either way, Djarin knew what to say and do.

"I think you already know my answer. But here's a hint."

Djarin pressed a button on one of the handles he was using to pilot the ship. A small missile flew towards the large Nevermore and made direct contact, leaving a fiery explosion and a cloud of smoke that both the ship and Bo-Katan flew through.

Bo-Katan, however, didn't have any protection from the cloud of smoke and fire. She landed on the Hard-Light shield and rolled a few times before looking back to Djarin's ship. He was currently firing upon every Griffon and Mandalorian that was in his way. The flying men and women proved to be difficult targets, but the Griffons went down like flies.

"Dammit!" Bo-Katan growled as she put a finger to her helmet. "Get this shield down now!"

Djarin looked down to the arena and saw some of the Griffons begin to fly into the exposed ceiling. He then looked back to the Griffons he was shooting as well as the number of bullets left in his gun.

"Around seven hundred and twenty left," he thought to himself. "Impressive for a fighter this size, but not enough to take out this many Grimm." Once he got an idea as to what to do next, he pressed on his gauntlet and continued to fly the ship. "Ironwood, it's me," he said. "Tell me what's going on down there."

"..."

"Ironwood?"

"..."

"James! James, answer me!"

"..."

Djarin couldn't imagine what was happening in Amity with the Grimm and Mandalorians, but it had to be bad enough for Ironwood not to answer him. Nevertheless, he needed some kind of stronger reinforcement, even if it was the military.

So he made another call.

"Sir, we're receiving a transmission from an unknown source."

"Read it through, but do not establish video contact."

A young Atlesian officer did as his superior, Admiral Thrawn, commanded and pressed a button on his console. "Incoming craft, identify yourself," he ordered to the ship that flew by and made contact.

"This is Din Djarin of Beacon Academy, requesting immediate assistance! Tell your commanding officer we need any kind of support out here!"

The officer turned to Thrawn, who quickly looked at the center of the bridge he was standing on. "Establish video contact," he ordered.

"Belay that."

Thrawn and the communications officer quickly turned to Captain Pellaeon. "With all due respect, Admiral, but we can't trust him of all people. Even if he's helping Beacon, how could he not know of this attack?"

"You could ask the same of myself, Captain," Thrawn confessed. "Whoever these Mandalorians are, their allies have been hiding in our midst for weeks on end. They have been scheming and conducting whatever plan they have right under our noses, and I have to correct this error." Thrawn clenched his fists as he looked at Pellaeon. "And I refuse to make another when someone who has helped me before is asking for assistance. Now unless you wish to take command of this ship, I suggest you remember your place and allow me to contact whatever allies we have remaining!"

"..."

Captain Pellaeon had rarely seen Admiral Thrawn angry. It was clear that he refused to play second best when it came to being outwitted, and it was even more clearer that he needed Djarin's help. So he stepped back and allowed Thrawn to take command.

"This is Din Djarin of Beacon Academy!" Djarin shouted again. "Can anyone hear me?!"

Thrawn turned to the communications officer and nodded. The young man obeyed once again and changed a video map of Remnant to a gray Mandalorian. Many of the officers were caught off guard, but Thrawn had calmed down and showed no more emotion. "We read you, Din Djarin, and are currently marking your ship as friendly," he said. "What is your current status?"

"Holding off as many Grimm and Man... and Mandalorians as possible," Djarin replied.

"I trust these are the same Mandalorians we captured at Mountain Glenn?"

"Them and then some. Their main target is the academy, Amity was just an announcement of their intentions." Thrawn was aware of this, but continued to let Djarin speak. "I've been trying to contact Ironwood, but I haven't heard anything."

"General Ironwood was shot and presumably killed before the situation escalated. Until we know otherwise, I am in command of the fleet and its people."

"What's the status of them all?"

"All of our smaller fighters have deployed and our airships are engaging the Grimm... except one."

"What's wrong with it?"

"We lost contact shortly after the Grimm came. It was holding prisoners from Mountain Glenn, we believe a breakout has occurred there."

"If I were to help that ship, could it help control the Grimm?"

"Their fighters must be deployed if we are to take air control from the Nevermores and Griffons."

"What about the ground, and Vale?"

"We have ground troopers on high alert already. They're converging on the city and the Vytal Festival fairgrounds as we speak."

"And reinforcements for Amity?"

"Out of the question for now. I recently finished a strategy to divert the Grimm from the civilians below Beacon and Amity. Until a safe zone is established in the city, I cannot permit my soldiers to leave."

Before Djarin could ask anything else, the communications officer spoke again. "Sir, we have another incoming transmission," he said as Thrawn turned to him. "It's from Rukh."

Thrawn nodded and looked back to the Mandalorian. "The best you can do for now is reestablish order on our third ship. Is that understood?"

"...Understood."

Thrawn looked over to the communications officer once more. "Establish contact with Rukh," he ordered. The officer obeyed and the screen changed from a Mandalorian to a distinct Faunus. "Report, Rukh."

"We're at the coordinates you gave us," the Faunus replied as he struck a staff he was carrying at a Beowolf. It was killed instantly, as well as an Ursa that Rukh struck with a back swing.

"Are you with the ground troopers? Are the Atlesian Knights performing their role?"

"Yes. Like you said, they make perfect bait. We're taking down the stragglers while-" Rukh stopped talking when a Grimm turned to ash next to him. He was then forced to fight a Beowolf with his staff once more. And when the staff was stuck in its stomach, Rukh relied on his bare hands to break its neck. He then jumped on another to break its neck with his legs. The danger passed quickly and Rukh was able to finish his sentence. "The droids are luring the packs away from the perimeter."

"Excellent," Thrawn acknowledged the report. "How long until the safe zone is secure?"

"Can't say now. We have a perimeter, we just need to clear out the strays."

"You have ten minutes, Rukh. Relay this to the squad's commanding officer."

"He's right here. Has something to say."

The screen changed from a unique Faunus to an armored Atlesian soldier. "Admiral Thrawn, this is Captain Rogers," the soldier said with a brief salute. "I heard your orders, the safe zone will be ready in ten minutes."

"Excellent," Thrawn said calmly.

"There's just one problem."

Thrawn slightly frowned when he heard this, but he easily passed it off when he raised a fist to his chin. "Continue," he ordered.

"We've been keeping an eye on the Knights. They've been keeping the Grimm out of our way, drawing them away from the safe zone. But they're doing their job too good."

"Explain."

"The Grimm are doing one of two things. If they're not trying to climb buildings to get civilians on the roofs, they're all making their way towards... it looks like they're going straight for Beacon Academy when they tear the Knights apart and forget about us."

"I see..."

Thrawn easily saw the soldier's predicament. However, the phrase "working too well" wasn't something he would apply here. He knew the Grimm would be attracted to something once the Knights drew them away; Thrawn just wasn't expecting this place to be Beacon Academy. Nevertheless, he was already prepared to deal with wherever the Grimm would end up.

"Worry about the safe zone, Captain," Thrawn ordered. "Leave Beacon to me."

"Yes, sir."

Djarin was currently en route to the third airship Thrawn had told him about. It was easy to identify, given that it was remaining stationary with no weapons firing while the other two were doing the opposite.

Landing inside the ship was difficult, given that multiple Nevermores were on the ship and the hanger doors weren't open. But neither were enough to stop the Mandalorian, who fired his only remaining missile into the hanger door after shooting a Nevermore out of his path.

The hole was large enough for the airship to fly inside and land. When it did, multiple Atlesian pilots began to surround the airship. They just as quickly readied their weapons when they saw Djarin jump down. Fortunately for him, Qrow had transformed back into a human and put a stop to the panic.

"Hold it!" he ordered. "I'm a licensed Huntsman, and Mando's with me!"

"Do what he says," one pilot said as he pushed two of his allies' guns down. "That's Qrow Branwen, he checks out." The rest of the pilots did as they were told and watched their squad leader approach the Huntsman. "About time someone got here. We've been locked up in here since shit hit the fan."

"You couldn't call your captain to let you out?"

"We couldn't contact anyone! The bridge went dead same time the doors locked from the other side."

Qrow looked over to Djarin, who nodded before disappearing. After a few seconds of the soldiers being dazed and confused from the unique Semblance, the doors behind them opened.

"You can get around the ship," the Mandalorian said as he stepped aside. "But I can't open the hanger doors from here."

"We need to do that from the bridge," the leader said as he moved past Djarin and looked back to his other pilots. "Let's move it!" The pilots quickly moved down the hall, but not before a few gave Djarin a dirty look. Once they all disappeared, the leader gave the Mandalorian a dirty look of his own. "Care to explain what the hell's going on out there?"

Qrow groaned as he pushed the soldier out of Djarin's face. "How many times we gotta tell you that he's on our side?!" he asked.

"That doesn't answer my question!"

"Forget your fucking questions! You got a ship to get back, or do you wanna waste any more of our time?!"

The squad leader grumbled as he looked back to Djarin. "This isn't over," he said as he joined his team down the hall. Djarin and Qrow joined him and saw the halls littered with dead officers and soldiers.

"Thrawn was right about the prisoners," the Mandalorian said. "Nobody else could have done this."

Qrow picked up a gun from the ground and looked it over. He needed a weapon after losing Harbinger in Vale. "Think this'll do some good against Beskar?" he asked.

"It's better than nothing. But I'm not sure if these prisoners have their armor."

Qrow smiled as he moved his hand on the trigger. "Lucky me." He then made his way down the hall, passing by more dead soldiers. But after a few seconds, he noticed that Djarin wasn't following him.

"I have to get to Amity," he said. "I'll call Ozpin about Beacon, but I have to find Cinder."

Qrow quickly understood how important going back to the arena was for the Mandalorian. He quickly forgot about taking the ship and focused on going with his friend. "Then I'm coming too," he said.

"No, not without Harbinger. Fighting with that gun may be harder against the Grimm."

"...Good point. What about you?"

Djarin pulled out his sidearm. "I'll be fine with this for now. I can get my rifle from Cinder when I find her."

"Alright then. Good luck."

"Yes, I can see them now. Focus on the arena, and then you and Cinder get to the city. I'll begin the evacuation here."

Professor Ozpin ended the call that Djarin made to him. He was currently staring out his window, staring at the Mandalorians and Grimm that began to fly down to the academy grounds. At first, he watched the brutal announcement the Mandalorians had made and then waited for the best time to reveal himself. Now that time had come, and Ozpin was more than ready and willing to defend Beacon and its people from harm.

As he rode down the elevator, Ozpin took out his Scroll once again and pressed a few buttons before putting the device to his ear.

"To anyone on the academy grounds, pay close attention," he said. His voice was echoing through every loudspeaker in Beacon, a feature he only used for emergencies. And this was certainly an emergency. "The Grimm and a group of Mandalorians are making their way to the school, and I am sure you are aware of their intentions. For your safety, it is advised you gather your weapons, friends, and evacuate immediately. Should anything or anyone cross your path, I implore you not to hesitate to defend yourselves. Whether this is your first year here or your last, you have all trained for this. Be ready... for anything." Ozpin began to move the Scroll from his ear, but had one last thing to say. "May the Gods be with you all."

The doors of the elevator immediately opened, revealing two gray and blue Mandalorians pointing rifles at the Headmaster's face.

"Nice speech, old man," one of them said. "Now get out."

Ozpin obeyed and was immediately grabbed by the one who threatened him. He still had his cane, but was using it to walk on the ground beneath him. The Mandalorians didn't seem to care, however, as they began to argue with each other.

"What are you doing?" the second one asked his partner. "He's here, let's just kill him."

"Not yet," the first one argued. "If the world didn't believe us at Amity, they'll believe us when they see Ozpin's brains all over the ground."

"...Alright. I think that one over there can record us."

The first Mandalorian saw his partner pointing to another gray Mandalorian, who had just mercilessly executed two students that unfortunately crossed paths with her. The students' fear caused them to choose flight over fight, but they weren't fast enough to escape the blasts or even engage their Auras before they died.

Ozpin silently mourned the loss of the students who heeded his warning too late. But he was far from ready to let anyone join them. So as he was led by the Mandalorians, Ozpin closed his eyes and whispered a prayer each time his cane struck the ground.

"I am one with the Force. And the Force is with me. I am one with the Force. And the Force is with me. I am one with the Force. And the Force is with me. I am one with the Force..."

The first Mandalorian finally picked up on Ozpin's whispers before his cane struck the ground. "What are you rambling-?"

*BAM*

All three Mandalorians were literally swept off their feet when Ozpin struck the ground and an invisible force blew his enemies away.

"And the Force is with me," the Headmaster finished as he moved his cane in a fighting stance and prepared for battle.

The fight began when one of the Mandalorians rushed at Ozpin without picking up his gun. But when he swung a fist, his arm went numb as Ozpin struck his exposed flesh and quickly struck the back of his neck.

As soon as he heard the second Mandalorian pick up his gun and fire, Ozpin leapt a tremendous leap overhead and practically glided behind the Mandalorian and swung his cane at his legs. When the Mandalorian flew in the air, Ozpin moved forward and struck the man's chest. The power of the strike was enough to break the chest plate, which was not made of Beskar, and knock the wind out of the Mandalorian's chest.

The third Mandalorian decided to wait for his chance when three Griffons flew at Ozpin. The Headmaster was able to dodge the first Grimm and strike the second. When it turned to ash, Ozpin was forced to engage his Aura when a claw struck his chest. The attack wasn't enough to faze him, it instead diverted all of Ozpin's focus on the more feral Grimm. Three strikes to its neck was enough to make it dust, and two was enough for the other Griffon.

The activity and his use of the Force was enough to make Ozpin lose his breath. His use of the Force wasn't like Obi-Wan's, who used it to acquire objects out of his reach. Instead, Ozpin bended the Force around his immediate environment and his joints to move faster and reach unexpected heights. A wise Jedi Master was able to discover and teach this technique, and he used it to compensate for his short stature.

But Ozpin decided not to use the Force when the final Mandalorian fired at him. Instead, he relied on his Semblance; green specks of light quickly moved in front of him as Ozpin moved his cane at the speed of light to deflect all the blasts that came at him. Once his unnatural speed saved his life, Ozpin flew towards the Mandalorian and dealt an uncountable amount of fast strikes at his chest. At the final strike, the Mandalorian flew backwards and struck his jetpack on the stone ground, causing an explosion that instantly killed him.

While this method of combat was indeed successful, it drew too much attention to Ozpin. The explosion caused multiple Grimm to approach from the left and Mandalorian reinforcements to come from the right. Ozpin began to feel weak from using the Force on his body, which had caused his limbs to feel strained and hardened. Nevertheless, he prepared himself to defend the school with his life.

Or die trying.

*BANG*

*BANG*

*BANG*

The sound of gunfire caused Ozpin to look at the Mandalorians, but the weren't firing at him. Confused, Ozpin turned to the left and saw nothing but clouds of smoke. And then the gunfire began to fire upon the Mandalorians.

"Professor Ozpin!"

The sound of his name made Ozpin turn to the source of the noise; multiple students, from every academy, were running with their weapons towards him and the Mandalorians. Those who had guns fired upon their enemies and the ones with close-combat weapons charged and prepared for a duel.

While both factions engaged each other, Ozpin got two people help him off the ground. When he turned around, he recognized the two as Max Bolt and Andrea Sky, students at Beacon and part of the same team. They were quickly joined by Lilith Gelb, who was also a member of the same team.

"Students..." Ozpin addressed the children as he finally caught his breath. "I thought I gave you specific instructions to evacuate the school grounds. And only fight if you had to."

"And we're following those orders," said Max. "But we're following another one we just made; nobody gets left behind."

"Especially someone who can fight three Mandalorians and live," said Andrea.

The students who joined Ozpin had witnessed his duel with the Mandalorians after acquiring their weapons. Their instincts told them to flee while Ozpin was distracting them, but a majority of them were enticed by the sight of someone who refused to run away.

And despite not being the leader of her team, it was Lilith who convinced the students that they couldn't run while people were still fighting. Max and Andrea quickly joined her as they became inspired by Ozpin's selfless act. And truthfully, Lilith was originally inspired by Cinder helping stop the attack from Mountain Glenn, which was why she was the first to fire on the Mandalorians.

Everyone quickly became inspired from both Ozpin and Lilith as they joined the fight. They knew survival against people who trained to fight their whole lives were very slim, but nobody was ready to leave until they made sure everyone could leave.

And so began the titanic defense of Beacon Academy. Ozpin continued to discreetly use the Force against the Mandalorians and Grimm while the students fought whatever was in their path. Everyone tried to stick with their teams, and the fighting went in two ways; the first year students would mainly hunt the Grimm while the more advanced students held their own against Death Watch and the Saxons.

The fight was not without sacrifice, however. For every one Mandalorian, three students needed to fight together to stand a chance. Wires and hidden blades in their gauntlets gave the warriors a means to defend themselves, and they were able to break the students' Auras in no time at all. But despite the lethal attacks that were inflicted on them, some of the students were able to fight back. This was special in the case of Lilith's team, who relied on their hand-to-hand combat when their weapons were either broken or out of bullets.

And they had successfully taken down two members of the Saxon clan.

"Oh, man," said Andrea, who was catching her breath. Her recovery from the Chill was progressive, but she still had her limits when it came to physical stamina. "I think... I need a minute, guys."

Max and Lilith quickly came to their teammate's aid. They too were out of Aura, but they were able to remain standing and ready for the next fight.

"We got you covered," Lilith said with natural confidence. "How you doing, Max?"

"Firm," he said with a smile. "Like I can take on the world." A strange thought came to mind when he made this declaration. "I thought I'd be giving in by now, but my body's saying the opposite. You think Professor Djarin knew something like this was gonna happen?"

Lilith considered the idea for a moment. "Whether he knew or not, I wouldn't be standing here if I relied solely on my Aura. His lessons really paid off."

Max easily found himself agreeing with his teammate. "Yeah, that's right. And there's no way he'd be involved... right?"

"If he's anything like Cinder, that's a hard pass. Hope they're both okay."

Din Djarin was indeed involved in the attack, but he was still fighting for Beacon. True to his word, the Mandalorian used his Semblance to travel to Amity and hoped the situation wasn't as dire as the trouble with the airships.

When he arrived, it was easy to see things were even worse.

The stands had become littered with bodies and missing limbs, and the Griffons continued to feed on the unfortunate civilians. Even Glynda and Doctor Oobleck were losing the fight against the countless Grimm. And all that remained of Penny was a clutter of wires and computer chips. Every part of her body had been taken to mold the Beskar into future armor.

However, two of her swords had been left behind. They had fallen stuck into the floor when they fell with the rest of Penny's body. Djarin quickly took them when a Griffon had laid its blood-red eyes on him. The weapons felt naturally to Djarin as he swung them at the Grimm and killed it in an instant. Once he saw the weapons would work for close-range combat, Djarin looked back to the professors and took out his blaster.

*BANG*

*BANG*

Both of his blasts hit another Griffon in the back, causing it to disappear and simultaneously causing both the professors to turn around.

"Am I glad to see you," said Glynda, who hunched over and began to catch her breath.

"As am I!" said Oobleck, who moved a large staff he was holding upright, making the end face the sky. "We could use all the help we can get!"

"Cinder!" was the first thing Djarin could say when he met the teachers. "Where's Cinder?!"

Oobleck looked around the arena, failing to see any sign of the Mandalorian's daughter. "I don't know," he replied honestly.

Glynda looked up as she continued to catch her breath. "We haven't... seen her since... you left," she said.

Djarin's spirit was instantly crushed when he heard this news. There was no possible way that she would do nothing to stop this brazen attack, even if it meant exposing herself as the Fall Maiden. The only logical explanation was exactly what he feared; the Blair sisters had gotten to her before he could. And it was up to him to save his daughter.

But there was nothing he could do while all the chaos was going on.

"Why are there still people here?" the Mandalorian asked. "Ozpin told me he was going to start evacuating the school, we need to get everyone out of here!"

"We can't!" Glynda yelled as she sprung up and used her Semblance to kill a Griffon. "When everyone tried to get to the landing pads, all they found were more Mandalorians." She grit her teeth as she killed another Grimm. "And they just shot everyone! Not just the men, but women and children too! The survivors had no choice but run back inside, just to be food for the Grimm!"

"Peter tried to fend them off, but they got him too!" Oobleck added after he silently mourned the innocent people who died. "He's with General Ironwood, up there. I... don't know if he's going to make it."

Djarin followed Oobleck's finger to see a relatively isolated area of the arena, where a Griffon was approaching closer. He quickly used his Semblance to move closer and kill the Grimm.

Professor Port was currently sitting on the ground with his weapon in his hand. He was using his other hand to apply pressure to a wound on his side. But when he saw the Mandalorian approaching him, he pointed the end of his blunderbuss at the warrior and fired. The shot missed but he was ready to fire again. "Stay back, fiend!" he ordered.

"No, wait!" Djarin said as he planted both of Penny's swords into the ground. "Peter, it's me. Djarin."

"Djarin!" Port exclaimed as he struggled to stand. "Forgive me, I thought you were-"

"Don't move," Djarin said as he kneeled down to the teacher. "Let me see." Port moved his hand to reveal both blood and a bad burn on his side.

"Grazed by one of those special bullets." Despite the pain he was in, Port knew there was someone who needed more help than him. "It's just a scratch. Help Ironwood."

Djarin looked over to the General and saw that he was in a situation worse than Port. A light on his body kept flashing between blue and red, obviously signaling distress. Despite this, the Mandalorian could tell that Ironwood was still alive and in critical condition.

Fortunately, Djarin had an idea as to who could best help him. He quickly pressed on his gauntlet and made another call to Admiral Thrawn. "Admiral, it's Djarin," he said. "Come in, Admiral."

"This is Admiral Thrawn," a voice replied. "We read you. What's going on?"

"I'm at Amity Colosseum, with General Ironwood. He's alive, but he's hurt. He needs to get back to your ship."

"I will send a squad to retrieve him. If you're at the arena, the evacuations must begin. Airships from Atlas and Vale will be there in two minutes."

"Understood. Have you heard from your third airship? Qrow Branwen is there, he's helping retake it."

"Not yet. But we can begin the evacuations without that ship. The rest depends on you, Djarin."

"Understood." Djarin ended the call and picked up the swords. "Peter, hold on. We're getting help."

"But the ships can't land!" Port protested. "The Mandalorians will-"

"They're long gone. Don't worry."

When he heard what the Mandalorians had done and noticed that they were nowhere to be seen, Djarin easily recognized the situation; it was an old tactic used by Mandalorians in the Great War. If there was a chance that Grimm became involved with the fight, the Mandalorians would put them in one place. And after luring and keeping their enemies in the same place as the Grimm, they would leave those enemies to fend for themselves while they believed themselves to be stuck between a rock and a hard place. There were bound to be survivors when the situation applied to people with Aura. But with civilians... it would be a bloodbath.

All Djarin had to do was convince everyone that the only thing they were stuck with was the Grimm. The first thing he did was look at his Aura levels. The two teleportations he made slightly reduced it to a light green, close to the yellow zone. Nevertheless, Djarin prepared to conduct the next part of his plan.

Whenever he laid eyes on a Grimm, Djarin teleported himself there and struck it with his blades.

*SWISH*

And then he did it again, saving two people in the process.

*SWISH*

And again.

*SWISH*

And again.

*SWISH*

And again.

*SWISH*

And again.

*SWISH*

On his seventh attack, Djarin's Aura finally shattered. But most of the arena's eyes fell on to him, specifically Glynda and Oobleck. When they saw his Aura break, they quickly believed he was done fighting. But then, everyone saw him take to the air and turn the next Grimm he saw into ash. His jetpack helped him kill Grimm in the air or on the ground, and the teachers began to help him.

When Djarin saw that all eyes were on him instead of the Grimm, he raised his sword and gestured towards one of the exits. He quickly ran to it and found himself at the landing pad, which was exactly as he predicted; empty.

And soon enough, it was filled with people coming out of the arena. They all began to wonder what happened to the Mandalorians, some of them were afraid that they were hiding somewhere. But once they realized the only Mandalorian with them was Djarin, they began to feel an overwhelming sense of relief.

Except for one student, who was pointing a loaded rifle he took from a dead Atlesian soldier at the Mandalorian.

Glynda saw what was happening and quickly ran over to stop the situation from getting worse. "Put that down, young man!" she ordered. "You don't want to do that!"

"He's been at Beacon for years," the student said with a quivering voice. "How do we know he's not one of them?!" It was obvious that the student was scared out of his mind, and not even Djarin could blame him. All he could do was lower the swords to his side and try to be rational.

"You don't have to do this," he said without fearing for his life. "I can help you. I can help everyone here."

"You think killing a few Grimm makes all this okay?!" the student yelled as he tried to keep a firm grip on the weapon. He then began to walk away from the Mandalorian, moving closer to the edge of the landing pad. "Give me one good reason why I should trust you!"

Djarin realized that actions would need to speak louder than words to calm this student down. And he needed to choose his next action very carefully if he was going to save the young man's life. So after he lowered one sword to the ground, he threw the other one directly at the student.

But instead of hitting him, the sword flew right past his head and into the jaw of a Griffon that almost swallowed the student whole.

When it died, Glynda used her Semblance to remove the gun away from the student. The shock of almost being eaten fell onto him quickly and caused him to fall on his knees crying. Another student rushed over and did her best to comfort him.

And more comfort was on its way; three airships were flying to the arena and prepared to take everyone away. The first airship was Atlesian, and a medical team quickly ran off the airship. Djarin told them where to find Ironwood, and they took off once again. The other two airships were from Vale and opened their doors to everyone.

With people finally being taken away from the devastated arena, Djarin left the responsibility to Glynda and Oobleck. All that mattered now was finding Cinder and helping her with whatever she needed.

*SLAM*

The sound of a metal door opening behind him allowed Djarin to see that finding Cinder wasn't going to be as hard as he thought.

She was leaning against the door that led to the maintenance area.

"Cinder!" Djarin exclaimed in joy as he ran over to his daughter. His arms quickly wrapped themselves around the young girl as his fears began to slowly dissipate. Her disappearance was partially his fault, and he wanted to tell her how sorry he was for leaving her with the Grimm and Mandalorians. He knew he had a lot to tell her, about her "mother" and "team," unless she knew about them beforehand. But now was the time to seek safety.

So Djarin moved his arms off of Cinder and took her hand. "We can get the next airship!" he said as he began to rush over to the landing pad. "Come on!"

"..."

When he took two steps forward, the Mandalorian realized something was wrong. Instead of following him like he expected, Cinder was motionlessly kneeling on the ground. She even refused to move when Djarin gently pulled on her arm. Fear and panic began to return to Djarin's mind as he kneeled down with her.

"Cinder?" he asked as he looked at her face. The child's expression was blank and empty, giving no sign of any emotion. "Cinder, say something!"

The young Maiden finally blinked and moved the rest of her face to see her reflection in the Mandalorian's helmet. "Dad... I don't feel so good," she said as she collapsed against his body.

When the shock of Cinder passing out went away, Djarin looked to see what the source of her distress was. Just like earlier, it was easy to find; a small black bug, attached to a black string, was on the back of her neck and causing her to bleed.

"Hey!" Djarin yelled as he grabbed the insect. "Stop it!" He quickly pulled the beetle off and threw it away before he checked Cinder's neck. The blood continued to seep out of her body, but the wound didn't seem fatal. And given that she still had a pulse, the bug hadn't done anything to kill Cinder.

"It burns."

A new voice came to Djarin's ears and made him look away from Cinder, even though he continued to hold her against him. He couldn't see in the darkness of the maintenance area, but there was a small fire burning in the middle of the air. Underneath that fire was a hand that came closer to the light. And when it came into the light the arena was providing, the hand revealed itself to belong to Aurora; who did nothing but stare at the fire she was creating.

"It's... an emptiness," she said as Djarin reached for his blaster. "It burns. Like hunger." A smile came to her face as she reveled in the flame. "I like it." She finally turned to the Mandalorian and the girl in her arms. Cinder almost escaped her, but Aurora managed to latch the beetle on her just as she reached the metal door. She had only gained a small fraction of the Maiden powers, thanks to Djarin severing the connection. This interruption left the deranged Faunus with one objective in mind.

"I need more."

Djarin quickly understood what that beetle had done to Cinder. And he would be damned before he let Aurora take any more of the Maiden powers if it meant hurting his daughter. And if he needed to kill her to get it back, that was certainly a chance the Mandalorian was willing to take.

"That's not going to happen," he promised as he took out his blaster.

*THOOM*

A large vibration rumbled across the arena, almost knocking Aurora over. Djarin was dazed as well, but not enough to stop him from pointing his weapon at Aurora's face. Despite the threat, Aurora continued to smile and look straight down at the Mandalorian.

"I think you have bigger fish to fry," she said confidently.

*THOOM*

The vibration returned, and it was felt all across the area as well. From the city of Vale to Beacon Academy, everyone who was still standing felt a low rumbling at their feet.

"What was that?" asked a Mistralian student.

"Earthquake?" an Atlesian randomly guessed.

"There're no fault lines around here," Lilith pointed out.

While the students were trying to figure out what was causing the rumbling, Professor Ozpin was staring out in the distance. Unbeknownst to the majority of the Kingdom, he knew exactly what was causing the ground to shake. And where it was happening.

"Oh, no," he whispered.

Out in the distance, a mountain began to break until it was nothing but boulders and dust. In its place stood one of the largest Grimm known to man; a Wyvern.

And it was heading straight for the school.

Warmachine375 · Nov 21, 2023

TheCourtofTalons said:
Out in the distance, a mountain began to break until it was nothing but boulders and dust. In its place stood one of the largest Grimm known to man; a Wyvern.

And it was heading straight for the school.

Arise, Mighty Kevin and go for a very enthusiastic walk!

The Way of the Maiden

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