Chapter 24 - Truths and Tragedies

Ding

Went the elevator bell as Rex and Pyrrha had stepped out of the elevator. There, they saw Professor Ozpin seated behind his desk while Rex saw Qrow just leaning up against a pillar, drinking out of his flask.

"Ah I see you both made it together in the elevator. Good. That means we won't have to wait for the other if only one of you came up here first" said Ozpin as he then pointed his hand towards the chairs, emphasizing for them to sit down. Rex and Pyrrha did as he said and sat down.

It was silent for a while as the two teammates stared at each other in question as to why there were here. It was then broken by Ozpin saying "So I see that both of your teams won the last rounds. Have your teams picked who's going to the final rounds" as he set his elbows on his desk.

Pyrrha chuckled as well as Rex as Rex said "It should come as no surprise but they decided that I should be the one to go on. I mean, I am the best" said Rex as he put his feet up on Ozpin's desk and put his hands behind his head.

Ozpin sighed while looking down as he said "I see" but to Rex, it sounded like he didn't like that idea. Ozpin then turned to Pyrrha and asked "And what about you Mrs. Nikos."

She just chuckled as she said "Well I guess that I'm in the same boat as Rex. My team also decided that I should be the one to continue on, so I guess your looking at two contenders right now" said Pyrrha as she chuckled nervously.

Ozpin also began to chuckle as he said "Well, it comes as no surprise that they've chosen you to move on to the final round of the tournament. Your performance was exemplary."

"Oi" said Rex, feeling insulted.

"Uh. Thank you, Professor Ozpin, but I would never have made it this far without my teammates" said Pyrrha humbly.

Qrow just grumbled out loud and said "Personally, I think it's the other way around."

Rex just rolled his eyes as he looked back at Qrow and said "Harsh much, Old man" as he finished in a tease way, which only made Qrow more angry.

Pyrrha turned around and looked towards Qrow as she said  "I'm sorry, but I don't believe we've been introduced."

"Name's Qrow" said the man in his annoyed voice.

"Qrow is a trusted colleague of mine" stated Ozpin.

"And he's so stubborn and old, that the nurses can't keep him in his hospital bed at the nursing home" joked Rex, only for Qrow to pull out his sword/scythe/gun and pointed it at Rex, menacingly.

"Unless you want me to cut you into ribbons, you better knock it off" threatened Qrow but Rex just turned to a carefree way and said

"My sword's bigger than yours so I dare you to try and use it" said Rex only for Ozpin to slam his coffee mug in his desk and said,

"Alright that's enough you two. We need to stay focused at the task at hand" said Ozpin, trying to calm everyone down. Qrow retracted his sword and Rex turned to face Ozpin again. Pyrrha then decided to ask,

"Professor, if you don't mind me asking, why have you called the both of us here?

Ozpin kept his smile as he said "Please, take a seat" to which Pyrrha did so as he then continued saying  "What is your favorite fairy tale. The both of you?

"I'm... sorry?" asked Pyrrha, to which Rex agreed with.

"Fairy tales, stories from your childhood. Surely you must remember some of them" asked Ozpin.

"I mean, we get what fairy tales are but what does that have to do with anything" asked Rex as he raised his eyebrow.

"Well, lets just say it applies to what I brought you two here for" said Ozpin, which made Rex feel uneasy.

Pyrrha decided to answer by saying "Well, there's The Tale of The Two Brothers, The Shallow Sea, The Girl in the Tower..."

Ozpin leaned forward on his desk as he asked "What about The Story of the Seasons?"

"The what?" asked Rex.

Pyrrha cheerfully replied saying "Well, of course!  A callous old man, who refuses to leave his home, is visited by four traveling sisters.

The first understands his reclusive nature and urges him to use his time in solitude to reflect and meditate.

The second brings him fruits and flowers, tending to his crops and revitalizing his garden.

The third warms the man's heart, convincing him to step outside and embrace the world around him.

And the fourth and final sister begs him to look at all that he has, and be thankful.

In return for their kindness, the man grants the maidens incredible powers, so that they may continue to help others all over the world.

They graciously accept, and promise to share their gifts with the people of Remnant 'til the end of days. Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall; the four maidens. My mother loves that story" finished Pyrrha cheerfully.

Rex chuckled at how cheerful she was being over a story but then he saw how Ozpin's expression changed from normal to serious as he said "Would you believe me if I told you that one's been around since I was a boy?"

This made Rex snicker a bit saying "Sheesh. I knew you were old but not that old. Good news, Qrow. There's someone that beats you in how old you are" to which Qrow did nothing in response but just leaned back against the pillar.

"Would you please focus here, Mr. Salazar." said Ozpin, to which Rex just turned back to the professor as he said "sorry."

Ozpin's voice then turned from annoyed to serious in a quick second as he said "Well, would you believe me if I told you it was true?"

Pyrrha and Rex just sat silent for a while then turned towards each other with questioning faces on them as Pyrrha just gave an uneasy chuckle and asked "I beg your pardon?"

"Yea, I'm with her. What exactly are you saying" asked Rex.

"What if I were to tell you that there were four maidens existing in this world, that could wield such tremendous power, without Dust?" asked Ozpin.

"You mean... like a Semblance?" asked Rex as he was still drawing a blank.

Ozpin just gave a small smile as he said "Like Magic."

Pyrrha and Rex were still confused as they heard Qrow say, "Yeah. First time hearing it's pretty crazy."

"Believe me I've heard and seen weirder things" thought Rex as he just listened to the others talk.

Pyrrha turned her gaze from Qrow to Ozpin as she said "You're serious?" in a surprising but also questioning way.

Ozpin just stood from his chair and gave a straight-face at the two students saying "Do I look like I'm joking?"

Pyrrha said "No" as she struggled to find the right words.  "Why... why are you telling us this?" she asked.

Ozpin glanced at Qrow, who nodded his approval, before looking back at the two in front of him saying, "We are telling you this, Pyrrha Nikos, because we believe that you are next in line to receive the Fall Maiden's powers. And you Mr. Salazar because we need your powers to aid us in our.... predicament."

Pyrrha's eyes grew wider and wider until she realized "We", while Rex just said "Wait, what predicament."

Ozpin then turned to Qrow and said "Would you mind escorting, Mrs. Nikos to the elevator. Its time I talked with Mr. Salazar" to which Qrow agreed and said "Come on, kid" as he put one hand on top of her shoulders and led her to the elevator. Pyrrha had a look of worry on her face as she was brought to the elevator and it descended down.

The room was filled with silence as Rex's gaze never left the elevator until the silence was broken by Ozpin saying "Mr. Salazar would you please sit down so we can get on with this" to which Rex do so but slowly as his suspicions were getting high.

Ozpin sighed as he looked down to the ground but then back to Rex as he said

"Rex Salazar....... who are you."

Hearing this made Rex's stomach a little queasy but he knew that this might happen. He slightly opened his jacket to where the letter that Paradox had given him weeks ago. He then began to think back on what the letter said

Flashback to the night of the Grimm Invasion of Vale.

Rex had just gotten the letter and had began reading it. He had gotten past the introduction then began to continue reading from there.

...You have been targeted by some of the criminals in this world and your Professor Ozpin will see this and realize that he will have to show you the truth in order for you to understand what you already know. Hidden in the basement of the school is a girl, who has powers that Remnant has never had before and its you job to fix her. She will be in a coma and its up you to bring her out of it. Fix her and save her....... That is what you can do.

End flashback

He then tried to regain his composure as he turned to Ozpin and said "What do you mean by that."

Ozpin sighed as he said "Mr. Salazar, we don't have time for tricks or games. Now I want you to understand, we are facing a crisis here and we need someone with your skills with us right now but we can't do that when we have no idea who you are. There is no records of you anywhere and you have powers that far exceeded anyone's expectation's" said Ozpin in a concerning manner as he continued saying,

"Now I do believe that you are on our side, as I've seen you being as helpful as you've been, but with this much facts about how in the dark we are of you, I can't be anything but suspicious about you" said Ozpin as his voice began going up in worry.

"So I ask you again, who are you Rex Salazar" asked Ozpin in his concerning ways.

Rex knew that he was right. This was a time of desperation. With the amount of White fang criminals and grim attacks happening, these were desperate times and Rex knew that they needed him so he knew that he had to tell them the truth. But the same way he told his teammates.

"I understand your concern, Professor Ozpin and you're right, you do need my help so I'll tell you what my powers are but don't expect me to tell you how their made cause even I don't know" said Rex but the way he said made Ozpin worry more.

Rex took a deep breath as he began to think on what to say and as he did think of something he said "My powers are made of little pieces of living metal that I can control. How they were made I don't know. Truth be told, I don't know a lot about me."

Ozpin raised his eyebrow in question as he asked "what do you mean."

"I have amnesia. I don't remember most of my life. I guess you could say that's why I've stayed here. Cause I don't have any place else to go. I guess you could also say that I'm also here to see if I can find anyone that knows who made my powers and why I can't remember my life. But I guess since you don't know what they are, then you can't help me with this" said Rex.

Ozpin sighed in defeat as he said "No I'm afraid I don't. I am sorry that you have amnesia and I suppose that explains why I can't find any research on you. Someone is trying to hide who you are."

"Yea I guess so."

"But I also want to ask you something and what you say make either make this easier or hard for us" said Ozpin in a grave manner.

Rex sat there and questioned what he was going to ask him and said "What is it."

"Do you know the truth of the maidens." he asked.

Rex knew that this might be his chance to get into the good graces of Ozpin an show him that he was on the side and said "I am aware of the maidens."

Ozpin raised an eyebrow as he asked "Really, so I take it you know about Amber."

Rex nodded his head as he said "Yes."

"And who exactly told you this" asked Ozpin.

Rex then began to think back on the letter again for when he was asked this question. Then turned his attention back to Ozpin.

Rex took a deep breath as he said "The only thing I was suppose to tell you is "Paradox".

Hearing this made Ozpin's eye widen in surprise as he then turned around in his chair. Rex raised his eyebrow in question as he asked "Uh, sir. You ok there" as Ozpin then turned back around as his face changed back into a serious one as he said "I see. Well, then I guess you're with us on our predicament."

Rex nodded his head but at that moment, the elevator doors opened up. Hearing the noise made Rex turn his head back to see Qrow and Pyrrha in the elevator  but also Glynda Goodwitch and General James Ironwood as they all stepped out.

Ironwood spoke up saying "Sorry we're late."

Pyrrha was still overwhelmed with questions, as she walked more over to rex and then narrowed her eyes at Ozpin saying "Wait, what is this? Who are you?"

Goodwitch walked forward with Ironwood and Qrow, spreading her hands and tried to sound reassuring as she said "You know who we are. We're still the same teachers and Headmasters you met when you arrived at Beacon."

"Except we've got a little part-time job" said Qrow, taking another swig.

"We are the protectors of this world" said Ironwood as he gazed over at Rex while Ozpin waked over to the others and said  "I take it the talking went well. Is he on our side" which made Rex glance at the general.

Ozpin grabbed his cane as he said "Yes, he is more aware of our predicament which makes things a little bit easier. Now we should be on our way" he said as he gestured everyone into the elevator.

When they got in Pyrrha asked  "Where are we going?"

"The vault. Under the school." replied Ozpin as he pulled out a key and inserted it into a key hole on the elevator panel and the elevator began to go down.

After a long and boring elevator ride, they finally made it to the bottom. The teacher went first and then Rex set foot into what appeared to be an underground chamber. The chamber itself is vast and dimly lit by wall-mounted torches that cast a pale green light. Rex was amazed at the design of the place. It has a very mysterious design to it.

Pyrrha was the last to leave as she too was absorbed the sight of the large, sparsely-lit hallway she was now being lead through. Glynda saw that Pyrrha and Rex were walking slow so she waited for them. Rex and Pyrrha saw that she split from the group ahead of them as she then tried to be sincere as she said "I'm sure you must have questions."

"Yea, maybe one, or two... thousand" said Pyrrha as she was still stumped by what was happening.

"I still don't understand. You said I was next in line to receive the Maiden's power. What do you mean by that? And what did you mean by needing Rex's powers to help with your predicament" asked Pyrrha.

Goodwitch went on explaining "The Maidens have existed for thousands of years. But much like in nature, the seasons change. No two summers are alike. When a Maiden dies, her power leaves her body and seeks out a new host, ensuring that the seasons are never lost, and that no individual can hold on to that power forever."

"So, how does the power choose?" asked Rex.

Qrow looked over his shoulder as he said "Through a series of stupid and convoluted rules."

Goodwitch scolded him saying "Qrow."

"Hey, don't get mad 'cause I'm right." he said, annoyed.

"Can you focus here." said Rex.

Goodwitch gained her composure as she said "Sorry, as I was saying. At first, the only thing that was certain was that the powers were specifically passed on to young women. But as time went on, it was discovered that the selection process was much more... intimate."

"Intimate?" said Pyrrha.

"As we understand it now, when a Maiden dies, the one who is in her final thoughts is the first candidate to inherit her power" said Glynda.

"Unless it's a dude or some old hag. Then the power goes to someone random, and our job gets a lot harder"" said Qrow.

Pyrrha was still scared at what was happening as she asked "Why tell us all of this now? Why not wait until we've graduated?"

"Or better yet, why not do it not during a tournament with other nations being here" said Rex.

"Honestly, we've run out of time. I don't know if you've noticed, but things are getting a lot scarier out in the world. Tensions are high. Grimm are growing stronger, more prevalent. And it's not going to be much longer before the peace we've been enjoying so much goes out the window."

Pyrrha gasped as she said "You're not... talking about a war?"

"Not a war between nations, no" said Ironwood.

"We can fill you in on the details once we know that the both of you are with us. For now, all you need to know is that one of the Maidens has been attacked. And for the first time in history, part of her power was stolen" said Qrow.

A humming of electricity was heard as the group came to their destination at the end of the hallway. There, was a large machine with lit screens, hooked up to two rectangular pods, one of which is upright to show through the glass window a young girl dressed in minimal clothing with a burn scar over her left eye and across her face.

Pyrrha stepped forward hesitantly as she said "Is that...

Ozpin sighed heavily as he said "The current Fall Maiden, Amber."

"She's... still alive, right" she asked.

"For now. We're using state of the art Atlas technology to keep her stable. But there is a lot about this situation that is... unprecedented" said Ironwood.

"What do you mean?" asked Pyrrha.

Ironwood sighed as he said "Well, we don't know what will happen if- when she passes" as he just sighed in despair.

"Won't... her power... just transfer to the next host?" asked Pyrrha.

"Look who's been listening!" said Qrow as he then whispered to Ozpin saying "She is smart, unlike some people" as he turned his gaze at Rex, who wasn't even listening to them. Just staring at the life support machine and Amber in the case.

"Under normal circumstances, yes. But this is a delicate situation. It's not uncommon for the last thoughts of the slain to be of their attacker. And to make matters worse, no one's ever seen the power split like this before. For all we know, it will seek out its other half" he said in a grave voice.

Pyrrha was able to connect the pieces together as she said "Her assailant."

"And that would not bode well for any of us" said Ozpin.

Pyrrha lowered her head in thought, as she and Rex came forward and placed a hand on the glass of Amber's pod.

"So this is the maiden" thought Rex.

Pyrrha then turned to the teachers and said "If all of this is true, why keep it secret!? If this girl is so important... if we're truly on the brink of war, why not tell everyone?"

The teachers looked at each other back and forth as Goodwitch came froward saying "From what we understand, it used to be common knowledge."

Pyrrha was shocked by this, while Rex just kept staring at the machines and Amber, as Pyrrha then said "Excuse me?"

Qrow pulled out the flask and said "How do you think legends and fairy tales get started? Even the craziest ones come from somewhere" and began drinking.

"Our group was founded in order to protect both mankind and the Maidens. Those hungry for power hunted them with the hope of inheriting their strength" said Glynda in a concerning way.

Qrow finished his drink as he said "And as you can imagine, the ones that succeeded weren't exactly the kind of people you'd want to have unimaginable power."

"And so this brotherhood chose to remove the Maidens from the public eye, allowing their existence to fade away into legend" said Ironwood.

"The things we're telling you go against hundreds of years of human history, religion" said Glynda.

"No one would want to believe us. It would cause an uproar" said Ironwood in a fearful way.

"It would cause panic. And we all know what that would bring to clawing to our Kingdom's walls.  Which is why we would like to..."

"...I'll do it" said Pyrrha, which took Ozpin by surprise. Pyrrha then continued  "If you believe that this will help humanity... then I will become your Fall Maiden. That's what you wanted, isn't it?"

Ozpin began walking towards her as he said "It is, but I'm afraid it's not that simple. Given Amber's condition, you won't be able to inherit her power naturally. However, General Ironwood believes he has a solution."

Ironwood stepped forward as he said "For the past few years, Atlas has been studying Aura from a more scientific standpoint; how it works, what's it made of, how it can be used. We've made... significant strides. And we believe we've found a way to capture it."

"Capture it and cram it into something else. Or in your case ..." Qrow said bluntly.

Pyrrha began to think about what they were trying to say but then she understood what he said And said "That's..."

"Classified"

"...wrong!" said Pyrrha in a angry manner.

Goodwitch glared at Ironwood saying "The feeling is mutual. But desperate times call for desperate measures.

"And these are indeed desperate times. We can't transfer Amber's power to you, but we can give you what those powers are bound to." said Ironwood.

"Her Aura..."

"Her life... would become intertwined with yours. The question is.."

"What's that going to do to you?" said Qrow.

"You have an important decision before you, Miss Nikos. There's no guarantee this transfer will work. And there's no telling if you will be the same person if it does. I advise you to take time on this matter. But understand that before the Vytal Festival is over, we will need your answer."

Pyrrha just stood in front of them as she was just having a roller coaster of emotions. Here she was given a task she never saw coming and she was just getting more and more scared. She then saw out of the corner of her eye and saw Rex still standing over Amber's case, realizing that he had been staring for a while. She then thought and said to the teachers

"Why not Rex, he might be a better candidate than me. You've seen what he can do. He's probably more qualified to take the powers." she said as she pointed to Rex.

Qrow began to take notice that he had been awfully quiet this whole time and was just staring at Amber.

"Hey. You've been staring at her for a while now. What are you....." said Qrow until he noticed Rex raising his right hand and just began staring at it.

Rex stared at his hand as he had remembered the letter about him helping her. So he knew what he had to do. He knew he was her only cure at this point.

Rex then brought himself out of his thoughts and then placed his hand on the side of the case, to which the teachers took notice of this.

Rex then sent his nanites into the case and told them to unlock the door. The teachers saw blue lines coming from his hand and into the machine, which made them nervous. Ozpin was worried as to what he was doing and said

"Rex, what are you doing" but as he said that, the screen began saying,

"Capsule door opening. Capsule door opening" which took everyone by surprise.

They then turned their attention back to Rex, to see the door to Amber's case opening slowly. Pyrrha panicked as she had no idea what was happening now. She retreated to Goodwitch's side as Ozpin and Ironwood were panicking as they didn't know why he was opening the capsule.

Ironwood began to step forward, as to stop Rex, until Rex held up his hand and said "STOP" to which they both did but they were shaking in panic as they then saw Rex turn to face them, with the door still slowly opening.

He then said "Do you really think I'm stupid enough do this to a person in a coma. No. When I heard Ironwoods idea, I already knew I didn't want her to die, so if you want my help, then help me get her on the table."

Qrow raised his eyebrow in question as he said "Why, what are you going to do" which was what all the teachers were thinking of. Rex then said

"I don't like people dying on my watch and I sure as hell am not going to let Amber die here. She will live again" he said as they heard beeping and saw that the door had finally opened all the way, showing Amber in full display. "So I ask you again, help me get her on the table.

The teachers looked towards Ozpin as he was the one who would know what to do. Ozpin was thinking abbot what to do but then turned to his colleagues and then nodded his head.

Ozpin then went over to a holographic computer and began typing in a few command codes on the holographic computer.

As soon as he finished typing the codes in, Amber's needle incisions retracted into the pod.

Goodwitch carefully used her riding crop to channel her telekinesis semblance to gently lift  Amber's comatose body over to the table. When she set her down, Rex was able to get a more clear view of her.

Amber had a light brown complexion, with shoulder-length, straight brown hair. She had a beauty mark below her left eye and was left with extensive facial scarring after she was attacked. She is also seen wearing a white tube top and a white skirt that are supposedly her makeshift hospital gown.

As he held out his left arm a few inches away from the comatose Fall Maiden, he carefully placed his left hand on Amber's forehead and his other hand on her belly. He took a deep breath and he began to send his nanites into her body. "All right little guys. Let's see if we can fix her" he thought as he closed his eyes and began searching through Amber's body.

Through the nanites, Rex could see a clear view of Amber's nervous system and began moving around her body. He then saw something that concerned him. There was black splotches in her nervous system and they seemed to be.... moving. He moved his head a little which made everyone look at him in worry.

Pyrrha was panicking as she said "Whats wrong."

"There seems to be some black spots here in her body and also her mind. And they're alive?" said Rex.

"That must be from the Grimm that attacked her. Can you remove them carefully" asked Ozpin, in a concerning way.

"Maybe. Lets see what I can do" said Rex as he moved his nanites towards the black goo. It was a very difficult procedure, but Rex was able to remove the Grimm from Ambers nervous system and out of her body.

"Look" said Glynda as she pointed towards Amber's mark and saw that it was retreating and disappearing. Then in a sudden flash of blue light, everyone covered their eyes at the sight as Rex's nanties retreated back into his body.

When the flash died down, Ozpin, Goodwitch, and Qrow opened their eyes as the three of them were in a state of shock, Rex had done it.

As soon as the true Fall Maiden, Amber, woken up from her comatose sleep with a gasp, she carefully pulled herself up as she was still laying on the table. She quickly scanned the room she was in and discovered that she was in the Beacon Vault, deep below Beacon Academy itself. She saw the headmaster himself, Professor Ozpin, his second-in-command, Professor Glynda Goodwitch, and finally the man who saved her from the amber eyed woman that tried to steal her Fall Maiden powers, Qrow Branwen.

"I-I-I don't believe it. You saved her" said Ozpin in a state of shock.

"Amazing. Truly amazing" said Glynda as she too was shocked.

"I'll be damned. More to this kid than what we thought" said Qrow as he took a drink from his flask.

Ironwood had no words to say. There was a boy with powers never before seen in the history of Remnant and had just cure a girl from an infection they had trouble curing.

Amber was still in a state of confusion. However, she felt someone's hand on her forehead and stomach as the person removed their hands and began to look at the person whose hand belonging to. Amber began to take note of her savior who no doubt somehow revived her.

It was a young teenage boy with dark tan skin, dark black hair, and brown eyes. The boy wore a white and blue t-shirt with two orange lines on it, a red jacket with orange at the ends of the sleeves, and wore dark pants. And had brown goggles on top of his head.

Amber was so confused as to where she was so she began saying "Wh-What in the name of Monty Oum just happened?!" The Fall Maiden said as she felt the Grimm infection wasn't in her system anymore. She decided to face the Headmaster who was few feet away from her.

"Amber, It's alright... You're here at the Beacon Vault safe and sound. You were just revived by one of my special students who possesses amazing abilities and seems to have restored your nervous system." Ozpin replied with a smile.

"Ozpin?! Is that you? Wh-What happened? How did I wake up from my coma?! I remember Qrow bringing me here and you guys hooked me up onto Atlas life support..." Amber asked as she was completely astounded by how she was woken up and perfectly healed as she felt her facial scarring vanished completely.

"Easy, Amber, you can thank the kid here in front of you." Qrow spoke next. "You see the kid here can grow metal out of his arms and can apparently heal others with them as well.

Rex just chuckled as he said "Yea, I'm kind of like I walking army" said Rex.

"I see. Well, what Qrow is telling you is true. This young man used his powers to heal your infection We're glad and thankful that he fully healed you." Goodwitch finished causing Rex to rub the back of his head while blushing as he was used to these gratitudes in his universe when saving and people whether they were EVO or human.

Amber closed her mouth and looked at the young man who healed her in curiosity. She had never seen the boy before but from what she was hearing, he was an amazing and powerful person.

"Yes... It's true that I revived you ma'am." Rex said to the fully awaken Maiden as she faced the young man with eye contact.

"Ozpin told about your condition and when they talked about you dying on us, that wasn't going to fly with me so I took it upon myself to try and heal you, and it worked... I must say it's an honor reviving a real magical seasonal maiden. I understand you want answers of how I healed, Miss Amber, but can you please keep it a secret?" Rex finished as he asked the the Fall Maiden in front of her.

"Sure thing! And yes... Forgive me but what is your name, young man?" Amber asked her savior.

"My name is Rex Salazar." said Rex as he introduced himself to the Maiden in front if him.

"Great. With Amber alive, we don't have to worry about her being an even bigger, easier target. Now...  How are you feeling Amber" asked Ironwood.

Amber held her head with one hand and said "I feel numb to be honest. I don't feel the best" she said.

Ozpin began to ponder in thought as he said "Mr. Salazar, carry her with us back to the elevator.  We should continue this in my office."

"Sure." Rex replied as then began to carry Amber, bridal style, and walked over to the elevator. While that happened, the teachers stood back a bit and began chatting.

"Amazing, isn't it. Not only can he grow giant metal appendages and weapons but can also seem to cure people. Did he mention anything about what his powers are" asked Ironwood.

Ozpin glared at Ironwood and said "No he didn't. But even if he did I wouldn't tell you."

"Ozpin, don't you see the gravity of what we have here."

"What I see is a paranoid man who is wanting the biggest weapon he can find and utilize it into a weapon" said Ozpin in an annoyed manner.

While the teachers continued arguing, Rex, Amber, and Pyrrha began walking ahead of them towards the elevator. Pyrrha then worked up the courage to say "Umm, hello Mrs. Amber."

Amber turned her attention to Pyrrha and said "Hello Mrs....."

"Pyrrha. Pyrrha Niko" she said nervously.

"Hello Mrs. Nikos" said Amber as she saw how unnerving she was behaving.

"Are you ok, Pyrrha" she asked.

Pyrrha shot her head up and said "Uh, who me, uh yea, I'm fine. Just.... got a lot of info dropped on me like a bomb. And I find out that Rex here can also heal people without using a semblance or aura" she said as she gestured her hands towards Rex. Rex just gave an uneasy chuckle as Amber turned her attention back to him and said "Yes, thank you for saving me. You truly are incredible" said Amber.

Rex had a slight blush on his cheeks as he shook his thoughts and said "Yea, I am amazing" in his cocky way as he saw that their whole conversation went all the way to the elevator. They all stepped in and headed up to Ozpin's office.

One explanation later

Ozpin had brought Amber up to speed on what had been happening ever since her comatose state. And Rex even showed her his powers by making his Smack Hands. Amber was surprised at his powers and even though she was healed by him, she only still had half of her Maiden Power while her other half of her power was still missing and stolen ever since that unknown amber eyed woman and her two assistants.

"Wow... I... Wow. That-eh. I don't know what to say, but ever since you managed to revive me... Thank You." Amber stuttered, thinking of how should she would be able to pay her savior back.

"You're welcome. After all, Its what a hero does. Help those in need. And I am the man to do the plan." Rex said as he pointed to the sky in a hero like pose, causing the Maiden to laugh.

As soon as they both laughed together, Professor Ozpin cleared his throat as the two then focused on the Headmaster.

"Sorry if I'm interrupting you two getting acquainted with one another, but, Mr. Salazar... I just want to say thank you for reviving her." Ozpin spoke to the secret EVO, causing him to smile as he blushed

"You're welcome, Ozpin. It was nothing." Rex replied as he began to change the topic.

"Now onto more important matters! What are we going to do about Amber. Her strength isn't back and we don't know where her attackers are" Rex said but as he said that, he saw everyone looking at him, except for Pyrrha.

Rex looked back and forth seeing all of the teacher staring at him but then he finally put two and two together and said "Really. Me."

"Yes, we do. We had talked about it on our way to the elevator and you would be the best person to watch over Amber until she gets her strength back and can use what powers she has left" said Ozpin.

"Yea but I'm already in the finals for the tournament" said Rex.

"Yes, we understand that, but you have to understand that Amber is important for us, and we need someone with you abilities to watch over her until we can find a new place to keep her safe" said Glynda, trying to reason with him.

Rex stuttered at trying to find a countermeasure to this argument but he knew that they were right. Amber was being hunted and he was the only one strong enough that could protect her. He turned back to them and said,

"Fine, I'll do it, but I need to go tell my teammates why Yang now has to take spot for the finals. Can I at least do that."

"Yes, very well" said Ozpin as Rex walked over to the elevators and headed down.

"Wait, Rex! Before you go, I would like to ..uh uuh. Ozpin, do you have my bag" asked Amber.

"Uh yes. I believe I stuck it in my desk here somewhere" said Ozpin as he reached into his draw and pulled out a brown bag. Amber walked over to the bag, grabbed it, and then walked over to Rex and said,

"I would like to give you these" said Amber as she reached into her bag handed him a box of Dust Crystals and Dust Vials that contained different elements ranging from fire, water, wind, lightning, Earth, Ice, Gravity, etc. "Please, take these! Think of it as a Thank you gift for saving my life." The Fall Maiden offered.

"Wow... Thank you,  Amber! I appreciate it. I don't know what I'll do with them but they still might come in handy in the future" said Rex, accepting the gift.

"You're welcome, Rex, oh and one more thing." Amber added as she walked towards him, and planted a kiss on his forehead.

Rex just blushed madly at what she did. "Why did she do that," he wondered as he can heard Qrow and Ozpin trying to hold in their laughter while Glynda had a smirk and silently laughing at her student's predicament.

Rex recomposed himself and turned to head on over to the elevator, as Amber said one last thing to herself.

"My hero..." The Fall Maiden said quietly, seeing the young metal maker leave.

Ozpin then turned his attention to Qrow, Ironwood, and Glynda and said "Glynda, Qrow. Take Amber to the medical ward for some last minute check ups. Ironwood. Perhaps you could bring some of your robot troops here. They can keep an eye on the elevator down below as so no one can go up them and Rex won't be alone in protecting Amber. I need to speak with Pyrrha before she goes" said Ozpin, to which everyone agreed to.

Everyone went do their own jobs, leaving Pyrrha and Oz alone in his office. Silence hung heavy in the air as neither person were speaking yet. Ozpin broke that silence by saying "I know I had talked about you using the fall maidens powers but thankfully Mr. Salazar was able to aid us in reviving her so I am thankful, but there still could be the possibility that..."

"I'll still do it" interrupted Pyrrha. "If Amber ever ends up in the same situation again, I'll still gladly take her position of the Fall Maiden" said in a confident but also worried manner.

Ozpin sighed in a relief and stress as he said "Very well. I understand this is still a lot to process but you must understand, the public is a very dangerous and very breakable thing. If word got out of the maiden powers, chaos would rule Remnant. So I still ask that you keep this a secret" said Ozpin, trying to be serious.

Pyrrha looked down in despair as she said "Yes sir."

"Good. Now I believe you have a tournament to get back to" he said, to which Pyrrha nodded and walked towards the elevator and headed down.

Meanwhile

"WHAT. WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU DON'T WANT TO BE IN THE FINALS" yelled Ruby as she shook his shoulders back and forth. Rex finally broke loose from her grip and said

"Look Ozpin wants me to do a task for him and he thought that since there was me and Yang that made it to the finals that she could take my place while I go do the task he wants me to do. Besides, I thought on it and if I go in there, it'll be over in a heartbeat. Do you really want people to start thinking that Beacon's students are boring and we make the fights too quick to end" said Rex.

The girls thought on his words and realized that he did have a point.

"Alright, I'll do it, but you better be watching my fight. I'll show them what I'm made of" said Yang.

Rex chuckled and said "I know you will. And remember, I'm doing this to help Ozpin and we don't want people to think that we're boring right" said Rex.

"No we don't" said Ruby. Rex chuckled at her enthusiasm as he turned to face Beacon Academy and formed his wings and began to fly back to the tower.

Beacon tower

Rex had made it back to the tower and told Ozpin that he had sorted everything out with his team and Ozpin mentioned that he took the liberty of changing his spot for Yang. Rex then also asked Ozpin if he had a screen so he could watch his teammate fight. Ozpin set up his holographic screen and connected it to the live feed. Then he headed to the elevator to check up on Ironwood and the troops down below.

Skip to the arena

Port had announced over the broadcasting system "Now, for the moment you've all been waiting for! The one-on-one finals!"

In the center of the battlefield's stage, Yang Xiao Long was smirking confidently as the cameras followed to see other familiar fighter such as Sun Wukong, Penny Polendina, Mercury Black, and Pyrrha at the other end of the line, who seemed a bit troubled.

"Barty, why don't you explain the rules?" said Port.

"Ah, it's quite simple, Peter. Instead of a bracket system, each round of the finals will be randomly determined immediately before the match takes place!" said Oobleck.

"Much like any good hunt, there will be zero time to prepare!" said Port.

"Ah, yes, yes! Now, let's see who our first match will be!" said Oobleck.

As he said that, the roulette started spinning, but this time for competitors instead of biomes. People waited in anticipation for the next battle to start as the screen then showed

"Yang Xiao Long and Mercury Black!" said Port.

Ruby cheered for her sister as she then said "Break a leg, sis!"

"Would all other combatants please leave the stage!" said Port.

The rest of the contenders began walking away as Yang started walking up to Mercury in the middle as the floor around them opened once more, with a ring of spotlights rising up to automatically fix their lights on the remaining two.

Yang smirked as she said "You better not go easy on me."

Mercury just laughed and said "You wish."

Both brawlers faced the crowds one last time, then slowly start advancing on each other, arms raised defensively as the final countdown commences.

"Three! Two! One! Fight!" yelled Port.

Immediately, Yang threw a punch, and Mercury spun his foot around to meet it, creating a shockwave between the weapons that launched him back. He closed the distance quickly and aimed at her feet with his own legs, but she leaped over them and fires off a shot from her gauntlet that Mercury avoided. They then began to fight fist-to-fist for a moment, until Yang fired a blast on her opponent at the cost of him also landing a blow on her. She fell back on her feet when Mercury shot himself into the air to get farther away from her, looking up and smiling.

Yang didn't relent for a second, as she launched shot after shot only for Mercury to dodge each of them, sliding around the stage on clouds of air until he attempted to hit her on her head with his leg. She blocked and pushed away the attack, but he went under her shotgun burst and managed to land a kick on her, though she still landed in a crouched position, now grimacing.

She launched forward with a double blast and continued landing blow after blazing blow on him, right up to when he roundhouse kicked her in the back and attempted to hit her with his heel. She got out just in time and punched the ground trying to get him, but he leaped out and twirled to get a hit on her. One of his kicks seemed to pass over her, but then he brought it down hard enough to shatter the steel underneath, which Yang narrowly rolled backwards to avoid.

They exchanged kicks after this attack until Mercury hit her backwards, and he rushed forward only to receive a fist to his chin, then his torso, knocking him on his stomach. He got up right as Yang started raining down fire again, causing him to somersault back until one explosion caused him to get knocked off of the stage. He saved himself by firing his boots downward and flying back in front of his enemy, unleashing a series of kicks that put Yang on the defensive. She ducked under one attack only to receive another as Mercury jumped into the air to knock her back, and he followed it up with a shot from his boots. Yang avoided it effortlessly, not noticing it still hanging around behind her.

Switching tactics, Mercury started shooting his foot out in every direction, each kick into the air accompanied by a silvery blast that are barely even aimed at Yang. She dodged each one coming her way and got in close through the circling barrage of shots, fighting with their fists again until Mercury kicked her into the air and knocked her right back to the ground, followed by the dozens of swirling shots that now converge right on to Yang.

When the blasts stopped coming down on his opponent, Mercury got up from his crouched position and grinned to himself, dusting off his outfit and seeming as happy as can be until the smoke from behind him erupts into flames. His momentary shock turned into another smile as he turned around to see the red-eyed Yang slam her knuckles together and come at him.

Screaming, she landed a punch that sent him back, and she rushed up avoiding each kick and even taking one with no effect to pound at him with an unrelenting bombardment of left-right blows. He had enough time to let out a pained groan before she hit him in the stomach, his Aura sparkling up to try and defend him from the last hit to the face by the upset blonde. He landed on his back as the buzzer sounds over the roars of the audience.

"What a way to kick off the finals!" said Port

"Yang Xiao Long wins!" said Oobleck as Rex just smiled back at the tower saying "Wait to go, blondie."

Ruby cheered in excitement while she splayed her arms in excitement saying  "Yeah! You did it, sis!"

"Way to go, Yang!" yelled Blake.

Yang just wiped her forehand with her arm and said "Better luck next time."

She started walking to the exit, getting pretty far away before Mercury seemed to get up outside her peripheral vision.

"There's not going to be a next time, Blondie!" said Mercury in murderously angry voice.

Yang stopped walking at the sound of the threatening voice as a sharp sound could be heard in the sudden silence as Yang turned around just in time to see Mercury had leapt forward with a kick, heading towards her.  Yang scowled  as she just managed to  bring her gauntlet down on and shoot his leg before he hit her. The second she did so, everyone heard a giant, SNAP.

The audience gasped in shock, as Mercury reeled back from the pain.

Oobleck gasped as he said "My word!"

Port then shouted "Cut the cameras!"

The whole colosseum was stuck with looks of surprise, horror, and hatred at Yang as was still glaring at Mercury, who was still grasping his injured body part, rocking back and forth saying  "My leg, MY LEG!"

"That's what you get, you little- Huh?" she said as she stopped just as she noticed the Atlesian Knight-200 droids and two Soldiers circling the Huntress-in-training and raised their guns to her.

"Yang Xiao Long, stand down!" said a soldier.

Yang didn't have a clue as to what was going on as she said "What!? Why!?"

"Mercury!" yelled Emerald as she rushed over to her partner's side, comforting him.

Mercury was crying hysterically as he said "Why'd she do that!? WHY'D SHE ATTACK ME!?"

Yang received a disgusted scowl from Emerald, only now looking up at the screens above her to see the footage of what just transpired: Yang was circling the crouched-down Mercury until the footage cut to him just standing there and her suddenly shooting him in the leg. The sound of something breaking could be heard, as Mercury screamed and fell over in pain.

It took a moment of staring at the images until Yang finally understood what she did, and her gaze turns up to the wide-eyed, terrified faces of Blake, Weiss, and Ruby. She looked around at the guns aimed at her and the people cursing her name, still not knowing what just happened.

Ozpin's Office

Rex and Amber just sat there with wide at what had just happened. There, Rex just saw his own teammate, strike a man down right on the spot without warning and then saw al the robots and soldiers aiming their guns at her. All that Rex could say was "Oh no" as he continued to watch the screen.

Arena

Back in the arena, Mercury was still cradling his injured limb, with Emerald kneeling beside him and Yang in the center of a ring of security, all with rifles aimed at her.

Emerald called out in distressed saying "Please, somebody help him!" as she saw paramedics coming over with a stretcher, lowering it to Mercury "Can you do something!?" she asked.

A rip could be seen in the leg of Mercury's pants, and skin and blood were visible through the rip.

One paramedic worker exchanged a glance with his coworker and said "We need to get this boy to a hospital. Grab a blanket." as they got Mercury on the stretcher and rushed him off, Emerald following right behind. Yang looked on with a horrified expression, her lilac eyes now almost colorless.

Yang looked to the guards and said "You don't understand! He attacked me, I swear!" as an Atlas Security Guard said "Stow it! You've already caused enough of a scene!" which just made Yang more feared for her life. She was innocent, so why was she being treated like the bad guy here.

With Emerald

Emerald was running alongside the two paramedics as they came across an open door with a woman in the same outfit inside.

The woman gestured them to stop and said "Here! We've got an ambulance ready to go!"

The Paramedics loaded him into the ambulance and the transport flew away from the Colosseum.

Mercury was lying on a cargo box in the back, still moaning and crying but now in a dramatic way, beside Emerald sitting next to him.

"Oh doc, tell me, will I ever walk again?" as he received a punch in the arm from Emerald, looking at her as he rubbed the sore spot he actually got hurt from "Ow! What's your deal!?

Emerald just groaned as she said "Ugh, headache. One mind I can handle, but two is a stretch."

"Well, you all performed marvelously, driver included." said Cinder as she pointed to their driver who had a very familiar set of brown and pink eyes as she nodded in silent gratitude.

"So, you think it worked?" said Mercury as they continued to fly away.

News report with Lisa Lavender

"A terrible tragedy took place this afternoon in the one-on-one rounds of the Vytal Festival Tournament-"

TV static switched the channels to...

Haven Tourist:  I don't know what Beacon's Headmaster is teaching his students, but that was disgraceful! Completely uncalled for!

TV static switches the channel to...

News Reporter: (with the video of several Grimm – Goliaths, Ursai, Nevermores, Boarbatusks, and Beowolves – running across Mountain Glenn towards the city) Despite Atlas reinforcements, local authorities are still calling on any available Huntsmen to aid in suppressing the spike in Grimm activity.

The projected screen then switched off entirely

"Hey, I was watching that!" complained Mercury, who was at a table with his mechanical leg on a table, a screwdriver in hand as he worked on it.

"Shut up!" yelled Emerald;

"Is this how you treat a patient?" said Mercury as Emerald grabbed his screwdriver and twisted it more on his leg while Mercury complained "Ahh, too tight."

"Enough. Our Mercury put on a wonderful show. He was quite brave" said Cinder.

"So, what's next?" asked Emerald.

Cinder crossed her arms and said "You and I will ensure that our next matchup goes just as smoothly."

"What about me?" asked Mercury.

Cinder smirked as she said "I checked the records and it would seem that Rex was swapped out for blondie, there, in an instant. So if I had to take a guess, Ozpin's got our target and that boy is guarding her as we speak. So if we find Rex, we find out target. Engage if you must but don't expect to come out on top." said Cinder as she began walking away with Emerald.

"Can do" said Mercury as he went back to screwing his limbs back to perfection.

Timeskip

RRWBY's dorm room

Two Atlesian Knight-200s were guarding the room as Ironwood was scolding Yang for her behavior.

"I'm sorry, but you've left us with no choice." said Ironwood.

"But he attacked me!" replied Yang angrily.

Ironwood began pacing around the room, not looking at her as he said "Video footage and millions of viewers say otherwise."

"But Yang would never do that!" said Weiss, trying to defend her.

Ironwood turned around as Yang sighed and placed her head in her hands as Ironwood then said,

"You all seem like good students, and the staff here at Beacon are fully aware that you would never lash out the way you 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. Even after the fight is past..."

"But I wasn't-" shouted Yang until Ironwood yelled back saying

"That's ENOUGH! The sad truth is, whether it was an accident or an assault, it doesn't matter. The world saw you attack an innocent student. They've already drawn their own conclusions. And it's my job to inform you that... you are disqualified."

Yang's shocked expression turned into a miserable understanding when she looked to the ground as Ironwood began to leave the room.

Yang was angry that everyone thought that she attacked first so she turned to her friends and said "You guys believe me, right?"

"Duh!" said Ruby

"You're hotheaded, but not ruthless." said Weiss.

Yang then realized one of their number hasn't spoken, at least that was in the room, "Blake?" she asked

Blake turned her gaze away, earning a shocked look between Ruby and Weiss as Blake then said "I want to believe you..."

"What's that supposed to mean?" asked Weiss feeling shocked.

Yang's eyes widened, with tears forming instantly as she said in a hurt voice "Blake?"

When Blake looked up at Yang, Weiss said "How can you say something like that? Yang would never lie to us!"

Blake glanced at Weiss, then took a deep breath before saying  "I had someone very dear to me change. It wasn't in an instant, it was gradual - little choices that began to pile up. He told me not to worry. At first they were accidents, then it was self-defense. Before long, even I began to think he was right. This is all just... very familiar. But you're not him. And you've never done anything like this before. So... I want to trust you. I will trust you. But first, I need you to look me in the eyes and tell me that he attacked you. I need you to promise me that you regret having to do what you did."

Yang wiped her eyes of tears, then said as calmly as possible "I saw him attack me, so I attacked back."

Blake let out a deep breath as she closed her eyes and smiled, then looked back up at her partner and said "Okay. Thank you."

"Good to see we're all still friends" said a voice, to which the whole team turned to see Rex, leaning against the doorway.

"REX" said the girls as Ruby and Yang ran up to him and hugged the living daylights out of him. They then released him as he then turned his gaze towards Yang who had her head down.

"Rex, I swear it was...." said Yang until Rex put his finger on her lips, shushing her. Yang was surprised by this and stepped back from Rex's hand.

"I know you didn't attack him. Despite what the news says, I don't believe you would do something like that. Now I still need to help with Ozpin but I came by to tell you that I believe you, Yang" as he clasped onto her shoulders and finished saying "So even if the whole world doesn't believe in you, I believe you Yang" said Rex, which made Yang cry more tears as she pulled Rex in a hug and cried into his jacket.

Rex was surprised by the action but then wrapped his arms around her, trying to comfort her. She then released him and said "Thanks Rex. I think I'm gonna rest up" she said as she walked towards her bed.

"We'll get out of your hair" said Blake as the girls and Rex left the room.

---

The team began walking away from the room, feeling bad for their teammate.

"This is a mess..." said Weiss as they saw Jaune opening the door, who then turned to see the team walking by

"She doing okay?" he asked as his team came out from behind the door.

"She's doing the best she can" said Blake.

"I heard Mercury and his team rushed back to Haven to be with his family. So, until they land, no one can really question him about what happened" said Ruby.

"If there's anything we can do, please don't hesitate to ask" said Ren, being sincere.

"Thanks, man" said Rex as he turned to his team and said "Ozpin needs me again so I've got to get going" as he saw how distraught Ruby was.

Rex then walked over to her and put his hands on her shoulders, which made her look up, as he said,

"She didn't attack first. Mercury did. How exactly that feed made it look vice versa, I don't know, but your sister isn't ruthless."

Ruby knew that he was right but it still hurt her, knowing people hated her sister. She wiped away her tears and said "Right, thanks Rex" as he nodded and began heading back to the tower.

Ruby then turned to Pyrrha, still seemed to be out of it. "Pyrrha?" said Ruby.

Pyrrha turned her gaze to the younger girl as she got herself seated on on a bed "Hm?"

"You be sure to win one for Beacon, okay?" said Ruby, still trying not to cry.

"It's what Yang would want" said Weiss, trying to encourage her.

Pyrrha turned her head away before coming back with her attempt at a confident look "I'll... do my best."

"I'll be sure to watch tonight in case you're picked!" said Ruby excitedly.

Pyrrha's smile dipped down into worry as she looked away.

"Sorry but, I think I've had enough fighting for one year" said Blake.

Weiss nodded in agreement while saying "Ditto. Coffee?" as she offered.

Blake smiled then said "Tea."

The three members of RWBY began walking down the hall, while Jaune closed the door when he saw Ruby disappear behind the corner. Pyrrha continued to look forlorn, until Nora tried to cheer her up by saying

"You heard the lady! No more moping around! We gotta get your butt in shape for the big fight!  It could be today, it could be tomorrow, it could be the most important fight of your entire life!" cheered Nora as she began working out in her own crazy.

Pyrrha smiled a little in bewilderment at Nora "Um..."

"Nora's right. You can't let your concern for Yang hold you back. You need to focus. You'll be defending the honor of Beacon Academy." said Rex, while wearing an apron

"Of course. I-" as Pyrrha tried to talk but Ran stopped her as he held a glass filled with a green liquid making bubbling noises in front of her face and said "This blend of herbs and vegetables is filled with nutrients vital to your body's well-being."

Pyrrha was disturbed by the strange liquid. "Oh, that's-"

Ren simply stepped away while smiling and said "Please, there's no need to thank me."

Nora just gagged at the drink and said "Thank you? Ugh, that looks like slime from a lakebed!"

Ren was offended at her opinion and said "Algae contains numerous spectacular properties. See for yourself" as he offered the drink, to which Nora tried, and immediately regretted. She spat it out and said "BLEGH! WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU!? Ugh..."

Ren and Nora continued their arguing and Pyrrha couldn't help but smile at their antics. She knew they were trying to help her but her faded once more.

Jaune came over and placed a hand on their shoulders as he said "Hey, how about we all get some fresh air?"

Pyrrha looked up at Jaune, who grinned at his troubled friend. Pyrrha was still feeling uneasy but she could use some fresh air.

Back with Yang

Yang was still in the dorm sitting on Blake's bed, looking out the window at the members of JNPR walking in the courtyard outside. She was still feeling down at what had transpired at the arena and wish there was a way to fix it all.

"Hey there, firecracker" said a voice, to which Yang turned to, to see Qrow leaning against the door, arms crossed and a small smile on his face.

Yang just gazed down as she said "Hey, Qrow."

Qrow snorted at her response before his expression became more serious and said "So, why'd you do it?"

Yang took a second to respond and said "You know why."

Qrow uncrossed his arms as he leered at her "All I know is that you attacked a helpless kid. So either you're lying or you're crazy."

Yang stared resolutely at her uncle and said "I'm not lying."

"Crazy, got it" said Qrow as he put his hands in his pockets and began walking towards her until he heard Yang say "Who knows? Maybe I am."

Qrow just shook his head as he continued pacing "And here I thought your dark-haired friend was the emo one."

Then from out of the blue, she said "I saw my mom. I-I was in a lot of trouble. Took a pretty hard hit. But when I came to, the person attacking me was gone. And I thought I saw... her. Her sword, like the one in you and dad's old picture."

Qrow just laughed as he said "You're not crazy, Yang. That was your mom, all right. Let me guess, she didn't say a word, did she?"

Yang looked up as she walked up to her between the bunk beds and said  "How did you know that?"

"I don't see my sister very often, but she does try to keep in touch... whenever it suits her" said Qrow.

Yang shook her head at the revelation and said "Wait. You mean you talk to her? That was real?"

"Yeah, she found me. Had a tip from my most recent assignment and wanted me to give you a message" said Qrow.

"Why didn't you tell me sooner!?" yelled Yang.

Qrow let out a sigh as he walked over to the window, not looking at his niece and said "I was tryin' to wait for the right time, and this sure ain't it. But I guess you deserve to know" as he looked back at Yang and said,

"She wanted me to tell you that she saved you once, but you shouldn't expect that kindness again. Raven's got an interesting way of looking at the world that I don't particularly agree with. And she's dangerous.  But you're a tough egg, kiddo. Shouldn't let this tournament thing get'cha down. You had a slip-up, sometimes bad things just happen. I say it's time you move on. But there another reason I didn't want to talk about Raven" said Qrow.

Yang raised her eyebrow in question and said "Why. What is it"

Qrow sighed as he knew she had a right to know. "Your buddy Rex has been targeted by Raven. She's been keeping an eye on him, without you guys knowing." said Qrow. Hearing this info made Yang's eyes widen as she said

"Wait, targeted. For how long. What for."

"If I had to take a guess, ever since he showed up on the news. Now I don't if that's true or not, but its the best time I can think of. And as for why, well.... you've seen what he can. She probably thinks she can lure him into her tribe, get him on her side. With powers like his, she can believe that she'd be a better tribe leader than ever" said Qrow.

Yang just scoffed at the news saying "Rex would never do that. He wouldn't abandon us" as she stood up.

Qrow just laughed at her reaction and said "I may not know the kid personally but he seems to have left an impact on you and the others if you believe that" smirked Qrow.

"Of course I do. He'd never join her" said Yang

Qrow just smiled as he said "Good to know that your not moping anymore. Now if you want to track her down, then I might be able to help you on that" said Qrow as he continued talking to Yang.

Later that night

Pyrrha was sitting alone outside the dining hall with her head facing down as the leaves blew in the wind. She saw the air blow a single orange leaf onto the cobblestones at her feet, and she looked at the fall colors, and began to remember Amber and the still possible choice weighing her down. She knew that Amber was know ok, but her decision still seemed to be a burden to her.

"Hey" yelled a voice to which she turned and saw Jaune walking over to her with a large cone of cotton candy. "I-It's no green goop, but I think it still might do some good" he said as he tried to cheer her up.

"Um, right. Thank you, Jaune" said Pyrrha, hesitantly while her expression didn't change.

Jaune's smile faded as he still saw her still-tormented face, and looked to the far end of the building as Nora and Ren were coming around. Nora saw that Jaune and Pyrrha needed to talk alone so Nora began to drag Ren away, back to the fairgrounds.

Jaune looked back at Pyrrha and took a seat next to her and said  "You were the first person to ever believe in me, you know that? Even when I told my parents I was going to Beacon, they told me not to worry if I ended up having to move back home. How depressing is that?" he chuckled.

"I'm sure they didn't mean-" paused Pyrrha as her sorrow became surprise, while dropping the pink fluffy snack as she realized Jaune's hand was placed upon hers.

"I guess... I'm just trying to say that... you've always been there for me... even when I didn't deserve it. And I can tell there's something on your mind, so... I don't know. How can I help?" offered Jaune, trying to cheer his teammate up.

Pyrrha was in astonishment then she melted away into contentment while she leaned over and placed her head onto a startled Jaune's shoulder, closing her eyes while saying "You're already doing it."

Jaune quickly matched Pyrrha's smile with his own, as the two stayed there for a long moment, but as an additional autumn leaf joined the first, Pyrrha's expression darkened once more.

"Jaune..." said Pyrrha as she leaned back from his shoulder.

"Hmm?"

"I don't know what to do" said Pyrrha as she looked down.

"W-What do you mean?"

"Do you believe in destiny?" she asked.

Jaune thought about Pyrrha's words and said "Um... I-I don't know. I guess that depends on how you view it."

Pyrrha began to think about her own thought as she said "When I think of destiny, I don't think of a predetermined fate you can't escape. But rather... some sort of final goal, something you work towards your entire life."

"Okay. Uh, yeah. I can see that, sure."

"Well... what would you do if something came along that you... never expected? Well I guess two things. One that had the potential to stand between you and your destiny, but also one that could possibly stop

"Like what?

Pyrrha barreled in stress as she said "Or what if you could suddenly fulfill your destiny in an instant, but at the cost of who you were? Or what If some had fixed that possible destiny but that  same destiny still hangs heavily over your head" as she was beginning to scare Jaune.

Jaune placed a hand on her shoulder, trying to calm her down as he said "Pyrrha, you're not making any sense."

Pyrrha moved away from his touch and was the verge of tears as she said "None of it makes sense! This isn't how things were supposed to happen!"

Jaune was still confused at Pyrrha's "screeching. "I'm sorry! Please, I-I'm just trying to understand what's wrong.

"I've always felt as though I was destined to become a Huntress - to protect the world...and it's become increasingly clear to me that my feelings were right. But.....I don't know if I can do it."

"Of course you can" said Jaune in a determined way. "The Pyrrha Nikos I know would never back down from a challenge. And if you really believe it's your destiny to save the world...  you can't let anything stand in your way.?

Despite Jaune's intentions, this didn't bring relief. Instead, Pyrrha looked absolutely shattered, covering her mouth as she began to sob.

Jaune was shocked that that didn't seem to make her feel better. "Pyrrha?"

Pyrrha turned away, with her face still in her hands "Stop..."

Jaune continued to approach her as he asked "Did I say something wrong?"

"STOP!" yelled Pyrrha as she held her hand out, and made Jaune fly back into the wall. Pyrrha gasped at her mistake and released him.

"Jaune! I'm... I'm sorry..." as she turned around and ran away from him.

"Pyrrha, wait" yelled Jaune as he still knelt down on the ground and said "What did I say?"

Pyrrha kept running from Jaune while tears fell down her face. She didn't mean to do that to her friend, she was just so full of emotions, it was tearing her apart. She continued running until she was inside the school. She saw a bench out in one of the halls and just sat down, while hugging her knees and continued to cry. She was a wreck.

Her mind was all over the place. Here, she was given a choice to accept a power she had never thought was possible but then Rex had saved her from dying so the fall maiden was awake again, but she was still given the choice to accept her powers if she were ever to be on deaths bed again. She was so lost in thought that she didn't see a person walking up to her.

"Well that was rude, you know. He's your leader and you shouldn't do such things to Jaune" as Pyrrha turned to see Rex, standing over her while looking down.

Pyrrha didn't say anything as she still hugged her knees and cried "What do you want."

Rex just held his hand out to her and said "Come with me", to which Pyrrha lifted her head. Then looked at his hand and followed her look up to him. He shook his hand a little, emphasizing for her to take his hand. Pyrrha obliged and took his hand and then began walking with him down the halls. They walked around until they made it to the elevator, to where they saw 6 robot soldiers guarding the elevator. Pyrrha saw that one turned its head towards them as it then said

"Halt. No one is to enter these areas without....."

"Oh shut up, you Robocop wannabe's" said Rex as he pulled out piece of paper, to which the robot scanned it and said "Access granted. Clear entry way. Enjoy your ride" as the robots stood aside and rex and Pyrrha entered the elevator.

As it went up Pyrrha asked "What are we doing."

"You're going to have a talk with Amber."

"Why" asked Pyrrha.

Rex turned to her and said "This whole thing is obviously getting to you, and its starting to show when you threw your leader into a wall" said Rex.

Pyrrha gasped at his words and said "Th-th-that was an accident..."

"NO. Its your frustration about this whole thing. Pyrrha, we are facing a crisis here and we need you to be focused and not going through this roller coaster of emotions. So that's why your going to have a talk with Amber. So we can relieve that stress your having" said Rex as the elevator rang, and the doors opened. Pyrrha stepped out and saw that Amber was in a gown and laying in a hospital bed, hooked up to some machines.

"What's this about" asked Pyrrha.

"It was Ozpin's idea. Said this might be a quicker way for her to get her strength back. So she's been fed specific meals to help her gain her energy back" informed Rex as he then grabbed a chair and brought it over to Amber's side. He then pointed to it and said "Sit" to which Pyrrha was reluctant to do so but then walked over and sat down.

"Ozpin and I told Amber about what you were given. Now I want the two of you to talk it out, and maybe this will help you feel better, Pyrrha" said Rex as he walked back to the elevator and headed down.

With Rex heading away from them, Pyrrha just gazed down at the floor. Amber saw this and could tell just by her posture, that she was distraught over this whole thing.

"Mrs. Nikos, I understand that this is all tough for you but....."

"OF COURSE THIS IS TOUGH" yelled Pyrrha out of anger, scaring Amber.

Pyrrha then realized her mistake and retracted herself back to her seat and said in a more calming manner,

"Its just, it feels like I've found that someone I cared for was a secret killer. Everything I thought about in this world has been a lie. I know that you're better now but there still could end up being the chance you'll get hurt again and then I would end up taking your position. And it scares me that if I do take your powers, I'll cease to be me. That and I'm just worried about what might happen" said Pyrrha as she began to cry.

"I use to think that during this tournament, I was going to fight for Beacon and show how great it is but now, I know that there's been a whole secret this time and theres something much more than it and this just makes things more infuriating for me" said Pyrrha as she gaze at the ground never left. She then felt a hand on hers as she lifted her head to see Amber smiling at her.

"I know how you feel cause that's how I felt too" said Amber as she continued to smile.

Pyrrha was shocked by this and said "Wh-wh-what" as her eyes widened.

Amber smiled at her reaction and said "I was exactly like you when I found out about the maidens. I too was angry at how Ozpin and the others kept this from the world. So you're not alone in anger but do you know what they did to make me see the big picture" said Amber

Pyrrha dried her tears as she asked "What did they do."

"They showed me that with these powers I could become something greater. That I can save people and become a great huntress. Granted I was still young but it made me realize that when I was given these powers that I can be even better than what I once was. So if you're feeling scared about possibly getting my powers, should I ever die again, just know that you are given a chance to be great. So don't feel bad and worry about me. Worry about you. You are an incredible young lady. You have skill and I want that skill to bloom. So wipe away those tears and remember who you are. Pyrrha Nikos, The Invincible Girl" chanted Amber.

Pyrrha's eyes widen in surprised. To her, it was as if she was talking to a great mentor she had known for years. Her sincerity and care for Pyrrha made her feel her spirits lift a little. She still felt remorse but she could see how Amber was trying to help her and it made her feel better than what she was a when ago. She then asked

"How did you know my title."

"Rex and Ozpin told me" she said.

Pyrrha then wiped her tears and said "Thank you Amber" as she got up from her seat and went hug her but reluctantly stopped as she didn't know if it was ok. Amber then leaned forward and embraced the young lady. The girls continued to hug each other until they finally let go of each other. Amber than said

"And don't worry about me dying. I have Rex watching over me. And I think I'm in good hands. He's told me his stories, especially when he told me he fought a Nevermore alone and won. So stop worrying about me dying. I got him to keep an eye on me" said Amber and just as she finished it, the elevator dinged and out stepped Rex.

"Speak of the devil" thought Amber.

Rex walked over to them and said "I take things are better now."

Pyrrha walked up to him and said "Yes. This was a good idea, Rex. I think this helped me out a little."

"Good. Now I believe you have a leader to apologize for and a tournament to win" he said and that made Pyrrha widen her eyes and said "Oh dear, you're right. I better get going. Thank you for this Rex" said Pyrrha as she ran to the elevator and began her descent.

"Think she be fine" asked Rex.

"She's been given a possible task but I think this made her feel a little better" said Amber as the both of them turned their attention to the screen.

Pyrrha made her way down the elevator, passed the guards and began running back to where she last saw Jaune but as she, got out of the building, she saw Jaune, sitting on a bench.

He then turned to see her standing there and got up and began walking over to her. Pyrrha was nervous and was trying to find the right words to say but while she busy trying to speak, she saw Jaune walk up to her and wrap his arms around her and hug her. She was surprised by the jester but then accepted it.

"I get that things must be rough with you, but you can tell me anything" said Jaune.

Pyrrha smiled as she said "Thank you Jaune. But wait, how did you know where I was."

"Rex found me and told me that this tournament was stressing you out and made you question yourself as a huntress. I get it know" said Jaune as they were still hugging. Pyrrha was surprised that it was Rex that brought him here. Not to mention made a cover story for her.

She smiled and said "Yea. A tournament this big and I'm the only one left to represent Beacon. Thats a lot for one person" she said.

"But I know you'll do great" said Jaune, comforting her. Pyrrha felt happy in Jaune's embrace but then she heard.

"Will the contenders please make their way to Amity Arena for the next round"

Pyrrha's eyes widened in surprise as remembered she had one last job to do.

"Uh sorry Jaune, I've got to get ready for the battle. So wish me luck" she said as she broke off from the hug and began running towards the arena. Jaune just shouted "I will but I don't think you'll need it. You're the Invincible Girl. You've got this" as he waved her goodbye.

Back in the Colosseum, people were cheering and ready for entertainment.  Ruby was walking down the steps and headed towards her chair. And began to get excited for the next match. Despite everything that happened, she was still smiling, as she looked around at the assembled crowds... until her stupefied eyes saw a familiar, glaring face on the other side of the arena.

"Emerald's... here?"

As if sensing she was being watched, Emerald leaned forward to glare at Ruby, who suddenly got up with a worried expression and ran towards the exit tunnel. Checking to see if no one was around, she entered a door labeled with a yellow maintenance sign and found herself inside of the Colosseum. She walked forward with determination as the announcers' voices are heard, muffled behind the brick walls.

"All right, it's now time to begin the randomization process for our next fight!" said Oobleck.

The sound of the roulette could be heard faintly, but then Ruby stopped in her tracks as she saw the sight of another unexpected "friend" stepping out from a nearby tunnel, completely unharmed and definitely not going home.

"Mercury?" questioned Ruby as she squinted her eyes to see if it was him.

She then heard over the loud speaker "It looks like our first contender is... Penny Polendina from Atlas...

But then Ruby turned her attention to the fraud as said "What are you doing?"

"And her opponent will be... Pyrrha Nikos from Beacon!"

Ruby dipped her head in thought until she realized the awful truth "No..." was all she said.

Mercury put a hand to his chin and said "Ooh, polarity versus metal. That could be bad."

Ruby glared at him in anger, while she reached back to grab Crescent Rose, only to remember she doesn't have it on her. Mercury simply grinned maliciously and set himself up in a fighting pose.

Back in the arena, Penny was grinning wildly, with her fellow redhead Nora cheering excitedly from the stands, even getting Ren to let out a reluctant "Yaaay..." As Pyrrha had a better looking expression on her face, as she too was ready for battle.

Before the randomization started

Rex and Amber were in Beacon, watching the next fight commence. Rex was excited. He was having fun seeing all the battles taking place. Like when he ever watched wrestling fights with Noah and Bobo. Ozpin had left saying he had to take care of some things so it was just the two of them.

"Alright, it's now time to begin the randomization process for our next fight!" said Oobleck. Rex rubbed his hands together in anticipation at the fight. But just as he was getting excited, the decision was made.

"It looks like our first contender is... Penny Polendina, from Atlas! And her opponent will be... Pyrrha Nikos, from Beacon!" said Port and immediately Rex's heart dropped to the floor. His eyes widen in surprise as he said "Oh no."

Amber took notice of Rex's change in emotion and asked "Rex, are you ok. You look worried" but as she said that, Rex yelled "PENNY" and turned around and began to run for the window.

Amber's eyes widen a bit and said "Wait, Rex. What are you doing?" but Rex just kept running and soon leaped forward and broke through the window, making Amber only see him falling down outside the window.

"REX" she yelled but then she heard a buzzing sound and tried to sit up higher to see what that was, but then she looked out towards the window next to it and saw Rex flying away towards the Colosseum. Amber was so confused at what was going on so she turned to the screen and pondered at what made him run away.

Rex

"I've got to hurry. Penny's in trouble" he thought as he flew faster and faster than his wings could make him. This caused one of his wings to break off and made Rex begin to fall but he quickly grew it back saying "Come on Rex. Get a grip" and flew faster toward the colosseum.

Amity Arena

Down in the arena of Amity Colosseum, Pyrrha was stilling feeling conflicted at what she's been through the past few days or so, but still had a look of determination while Penny politely saluted her opponent.

"Sal-u-tations, Pyrrha Nikos! It's an honor to finally meet you!" as she did a salute to her.

Pyrrha didn't respond, as looked at her hands as she clenched them in attempted determination.

"This is going to be so much fun!" said Penny, cheerfully.

Ruby

In the same structure behind closed doors, Ruby was still facing down an up-and-standing Mercury, who was smugly smiling at the younger girl's confusion.

"Mercury, what are you doing? You were hurt! Why..." she stopped as she then narrowed her eyes in suspicion and said "What's going on?"

Mercury didn't answer, as he was still grinning with malice at her. "Fine. If you're not going to tell me... " she said while she attempted to move around him, but he blocked her path, then did it again when she sidestepped.

"Fighters, are you ready? said Oobleck.

Mercury just smirked at the announcement.

Penny beamed widely in anticipation, but Pyrrha still had her look of determination on her face as she readied her weapons.

Everyone was getting ready to fight as Oobleck said "3, 2, 1... BEGIN!"

As soon as the words were said, Penny pulled out her floating swords and began launching them at Pyrrha, who began running towards them and leapt though or deflected each aimed blade. The swords flew into the air until they turned around and come back to the fight.

Also hearing the words, Mercury looked back at Ruby and said "Showtime."

He ran forward, blocking Ruby's path with his arms outstretched, restraining her movements no matter where she moved. Panicked, she grimaced and spun forward, making her become a blur of red and petals and rocketing towards Mercury, only for him to kick her twice mid-dash with his legs and knocked her to the ground. He advanced on her just as she pulled out her Scroll, and was about to call for help until her scroll was shot by a bullet.

"Let's just keep this between us friends" he said as he charged at her again.

Ruby attempted to block a kick from Mercury with her arms, but got a face-full of boot. Next, Mercury fired a shot but she managed to duck then barely missed being hit by his downward kick and leapt over his leg, spiraling past him, this time getting much father down the corridor. She kicked off of the wall and fell to the ground, pumping her arms as she ran for the exit.

Rex

Rex had just made it to the platform of Amity colloesum and deactivated his wings and began to form his rider and took off down the walk way. But as he did, he was greeted by several Atlas soldiers saying "Halt, Halt. No weapons in...." but Rex just revved his engine up and drove through and over them. He then began driving down a hallway and followed the sounds of cheering. "Hang on Penny, I'm on my way" he thought as he continued to drive through the hallway and past people.

Pyrrha

Pyrrha and Penny were continuing their fighting as Pyrrha was twirling her javelin to block each sword swipe of Penny's, to which she dropped her weapon when she needed to somersault away after being hit by a slash, only to magnetically return it to her hand as Penny readied another wave of blades.

Port sat in amazement and said "My word! What a tremendous display by Miss Polendina!"

Fully glowering, Pyrrha rushed forward and jumped on an incoming sword, swinging down on Penny, only to have the assault halted by the collection of blades, though she leaped away from the retaliatory slice as Penny backed away as well. She tried to defend against the multitude of swords with the length of her weapon, but she was forced back, prompting Pyrrha to roll the shield from her back onto her arm with her polarity.

Pyrrha's team continued to cheer her on as Nora yelled "Whoo, yeah! Goooo Pyrrha!"

Despite the cheers, Pyrrha wasn't doing well, as she looked down to see her Semblance's black energy bend the weapons in her hands unnaturally for a split second. But from the seats, Emerald began to narrow her gaze further, continuing to concentrate on Pyrrha.

Pyrrha spun wildly as she deflected and dodged each sword, until she got close enough to Penny to deliver a few slashes with the spear, sending her flying back as Pyrrha batted aside the blades. Penny slid to a stop and made a new series of motions, the weapons folded up until she was circled by several laser rifles, a few of which open fire on the approaching champion. Pyrrha avoided the blasts and fought off the remaining swords with her blade until she slid into position to charge at Penny and knock her back. Pyrrha straightened with a victorious grin that disappeared into dizziness, just as she saw Penny rocketing forward, weapons firing behind her like a jetpack so she leapt into the air, then came down as an energized meteor on Pyrrha.

Rolling back to her feet, Pyrrha turned to face Penny but then her shield and spear got knocked back. She tried to get the latter back with her magnetism, but had to use the power to send a flying sword back at Penny's side. It disappeared behind Penny, only for her to grin and raise her arms as several appear above her, aimed to strike. This didn't seem to be going well for her.

Rex

He kept driving as fast as he could until he finally saw an end at the tunnel and popped it into hyperdrive and drove like hell. He drove faster and faster and soon as he came to the end, he kept driving and soon, he came flying out of the tunnel and down the seats. People near the tunnel he was in immediately turned their heads to the sudden flying object and saw a motorbike flying out of the tunnel.

Rex was flying right out of the tunnel and immedialtey deactivated his rider and formed his wings again and headed toward the arena.

Pyrrha

Pyrrha gazed over at Penny and saw her weapons were being held high but then she saw something she wasn't expecting. Penny's eight swords were now doubling, then tripling, multiplying into an unreal thicket of blades. At the sight of this, Pyrrha was freaked out and stepped back and before she knew it, an even bigger thicket of blades was above her. This was becoming even more deadly for her.

Rex

He flew closer to the arena but he then saw Pyrrha spread her arms out and could see a faint black glow in her arms.

"NO" he said as flew faster to the arena.

Pyrrha

Pyrrha knew that she didn't have a choice now. She needed to use her semblance. But as she moved her arms out and activated it, she heard a giant "NO" to which she turned and saw Rex was flying towards the arena.

"Rex. Whats he doing here" she thought but while she was distracted, Penny to this window of opportunity and sent her blades towards Pyrrha. Upon seeing the thicket of blades coming towards her, Pyrrha panicked on instinct and sent out a magnetized shockwave. The shockwave then caused the blades and Penny to stop unintentionally. And then the blades began to head back towards... Penny.

Penny couldn't move. Her body wouldn't let her. She was only able to look as she saw the blades coming right back for her. The blades began to get closer...... and closer......and closer.

In only a brief moment, Pyrrha's image of a million blades behind Penny disappeared and saw the original 8 but then saw her error and saw that she sent the blades towards her.

For the tow of them, the world became slower as the blades came closer to Penny...........

...."PENNY. NO"cried a voice in that split second as Penny saw something big heading towards her and the shoved her to the side. Pyrrha saw this too. She saw out of her preifereal vision and saw Rex who had his right smack hand up and had instantly shoved Penny out of the way of the blades. Pyrrha saw this and felt relieved but she still saw the blades trajectory hadn't changed at all.

SQUELCH

Was the only that could be heard in that few seconds.

Penny fell to the ground as she could know feel her body working again and heard her blades hit the ground. But as she began t focus more, she turned to her assistant, only to be utterly horrified.

To everyone now watching the broadcast, there was Rex flying back in the arena.....

...with two swords lodged into him.

There was a moment of darkness, as everyone just sat or stood in shock and horror as well as Pyrrha as she just stared in abject horror, with her eyes wide, same as Penny, at the travesty that had just happened.

Port stood up from his chair in horror as he yelled "No!"

Ironwood sat in shock as he saw Rex had been stabbed but as he saw him he thought "If he's here than who's watching Amber."

With everyone gasping in shock, Rex just grunted in pain and fell to his knees and fell onto his back.

But while all of this was going on, miles away in Mountain Glenn, Grimm of all kinds began turning toward the Colosseum, and begin to charge towards it.

Finally, Ruby turned a corner and emerged from the service tunnel and ran to the arena but when she got there, what she saw was even worse. There, was her own teammate, skewered by one of Penny's blades and was bleeding out.

Ruby fell to her knees and cried "Rex. NO" as her tears fell as she sobbed miserably.

The arena began to lower back into place under the spotlights, as Mercury appeared behind the weeping Ruby, and then saw what had happened.

"Huh. Not exactly what we planned but at least he's not a problem anymore. But man, Cinder probably isn't happy about this" he said as he began stepping back into the Colosseum's maintenance area. Ruby tensed slightly as she heard his footsteps, but slumped forward once again as the door noisily swung shut.

Oobleck was panicking that all of this was still on the air. "Broadcast, what are you doing? Kill the feed!" he yelled.

"Something's wrong! We don't have control of the cameras! We can't even stop the broadcast!" said the Broadcast operator.

Oobleck's eyes widened in surprise as he said "What!? How is that possible!?"

As soon as Oobleck said that, the background behind the two teachers changed the video feed of the sight before them, to a tinted, ominous bright red with a black queen chess piece hovering over the scene. They turned back to the arena as a voice could be heard throughout the Colosseum and the rest of the world watching the events.

"This is not a tragedy. This was not an accident. This is what happens when you hand over your trust, your safety, your children, to men who claim to be our guardians..." as several audience members looked uneasy at the hearing, while Jaune was just staring at the arena in shock "...but are, in reality, nothing more than men. Our Academies' Headmasters wield more power than most armies, and one was audacious enough to control both."

Ironwood realized who she was talking about, and grimaced and rose from his seat and marched up the steps.

"They try to set an example for all of Remnant when it comes to their students or their power, and yet, what do we have here? A boy with powers no ones ever even heard of, mercilessly stabbed by another's star pupil and a friend of his no less. Such a tragic thing. I have seen these three be friends and yet one of them killed this boy without a thought. I don't think the Grimm can tell the difference between who's the good guy and the bad guy here.

Pyrrha continued to stare at Rex lying on the ground in dread and guilt. Her lips were parted as she raised a hand to cover her mouth. Then her eyes started watering, as a single tear fell. Penny just sat in horror as she saw one of her own blades had stabbed a person that considered her his friend.

Weiss and Blake

Back in the fairgrounds, Weiss and Blake watched the hacked screen in horror. They just witnessed their own teammate and friend get stabbed by a sword and was laying dead, on the ground.

"And what, I ask you, is Ozpin teaching his students? First a dismemberment, now this? Huntsmen and Huntresses should carry themselves with honor and mercy, yet I have witnessed neither. Perhaps Ozpin felt as though defeating Atlas in the Tournament would help people forget his colossal failure to protect Vale when the Grimm invaded its streets. Or perhaps this was his message to the tyrannical dictator that has occupied an unsuspecting kingdom with armed forces. Honestly, I haven't the slightest clue as to who is right and who is wrong. But I know the existence of peace is fragile, and the leaders of our kingdoms conduct their business with iron gloves.

As someone who hails from Mistral, I can assure you the situation there is... equally undesirable. Our Kingdoms are on the brink of war, yet we, the citizens, are left in the dark."

Outside the academy

Two Atlas Soldiers were watching the message on their Scroll, not noticing the wave of Grimm coming out of the mist shrouded treeline until they heard growling. Both of them turned and open fired the best they can, shooting down a few. But many more rushed past them with Cinder's voice still stirring up trouble from her position with a malevolent smile.

"So I ask you: When the first shots are fired... who do you think you can trust?"

In the Colosseum, the screen then cut from red and black to complete static.

"The feeds are all jammed! We can't get a message out!" said Oobleck to Port.

Port just scratched his head as he said "Will somebody tell me what in the world is happening!?"

Then in that same instant, a loud siren could be heard as a voice said "Alert. Incoming Grimm attack. Threat level: Nine. Please seek shelter in a calm and orderly manner."

Hearing this, the crowd began to flee, franticly running wild and screaming through the exit tunnels while Ironwood entered the announcers' box and grabbed the microphone from between Port and Oobleck and said "Ladies and gentlemen, please. There is no need for panic."

With that said, a Giant Nevermore appeared atop the arena's domed force field, giving a series of deafening screeches as it clawed and pecked at the defense with its beak.

"A Nevermore!?" said Sun.

"How did it get past the Kingdom's defenses!?" said Coco.

"It wasn't alone" said Ren.

Up in the booth, Ironwood watched the Nevermore attack the shields until he answered his Scroll, stammering. "Ozpin, I know this doesn't look good but.."

"You brought your army to my Kingdom, James. Use it" said Ozpin in a grave tone.

Ironwood's worry turned to determination as he pulled out his scroll and said All stations. We are in a level 9 threat. Is everyone at their stations."

But over his scroll, he heard noises of Grimm attacking the ships as he heard someone say " \This is Blue Four! Blues Two and Three, fall into defensive position!"

"Roger! Blue Three, in position!"

"Blue Two, what's your status?" No response "Blue Two, come in! Someone answer me, dammit!"

The man tried to get to the other ship but then he saw the furthest craft suddenly turn towards its allies and fired several bright red lasers at the engine of the one closest to it.

"We're hit! What's going-" before he could finish speaking the flaming ship crashed into another, in a series of explosions and sent them both tumbling toward the waters below.

On the traitor ship

"Woo-hoohahahaha! Oohh, it is good to be back!" laughed the old criminal Roman Torchwick. "this is going to be fun."

Amity arena.

At Beacon's cliffside landing platforms, three Bullheads arrived, but then the middle one opened its hatch to reveal four members of the White Fang, and their leader. Adam.

"Bring them to their knees!" he said as another Bullhead opened its door, this time with several creatures of Grimm inside. A growling Ursa jumped from it and landed on Academy grounds.