"Woah, this place looks like a haunted park," Yang quipped, her eyes scanning the crumbling ruins of Mountain Glenn. Broken streets, overgrown with vegetation, twisted remnants of lampposts, and eerily quiet buildings surrounded them, casting long shadows. The atmosphere was thick with the staleness of abandonment, making the city feel almost frozen in time.Yang glanced over at Ruby, who was holding Zwei close to her chest. A playful smirk spread across Yang's face as she decided to lighten the mood. "The ghosts might get you, Rubyyy~" she teased, wiggling her fingers toward Ruby in a mock spooky gesture.Ruby shot her an unimpressed look but couldn't hold back a smile. "Seriously, Yang, I don't believe in gho-WA-HAHAHA!" Ruby's words were cut off by her own laughter as Yang suddenly lunged forward and began to tickle her sides.Kakashi glanced at the sisters, observing their playful interaction with mild interest. Though he had no real experience with sibling relationships, he noted the easy affection between the two.It was clear they shared a strong bond, something he could only imagine. A faint sigh escaped his lips as his gaze shifted to Weiss, knowing full well he couldn't get away with the same antics. She had a quick temper, and he was cautious enough not to provoke it-especially given that he was currently inhabiting Rinko's body.With a resigned shrug, Kakashi reached into his pouch and pulled out a novel. It wasn't Icha Icha Paradise, but it would have to do. As he flipped a page, a small smirk formed beneath his mask.'This might not be Icha Icha, but it sure hits the same spot,' he thought, letting the lighthearted banter of Team RWBY fade into the background as he immersed himself in the book.Weiss sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose as she watched the two sisters goofing off."You do realize we're still in the middle of a mission, right? This isn't the time for games." Her tone was sharp, though a hint of amusement softened it.Before she could further chastise them, her gaze shifted to Kakashi, who was quietly reading a book. Narrowing her eyes, she marched over and snatched it from his hands."And are you seriously reading that kind of book now?" she asked incredulously, holding onto the novel as Kakashi gripped the other side. Her eyes skimmed a line-"Yeah~ I like that~!"-and her expression instantly soured. She slowly looked up at Kakashi, disappointment and disgust clear in her gaze.Kakashi, realizing the situation, let out a nervous laugh, scratching the back of his head as a bead of sweat formed on his temple."Ah, well, you see... it's not exactly what it looks like..." He tried to defuse the situation, but Weiss wasn't having any of it. She just shook her head, her eyes conveying a mixture of exasperation and disbelief."Unbelievable," she muttered, tossing the book back to him with a huff. "Try to act a little more professional, will you?"Yang and Ruby, still recovering from their playful moment, couldn't help but laugh at Kakashi's predicament. Blake smirked while Weiss maintained her usual composed annoyance.Oobleck, adjusting his glasses, spoke up with authority, "Alright, ladies and gentleman, there's more to explore. Let's split into pairs. We'll meet back here when I activate my scroll-a ding will signal your own scrolls."He pressed a button on his device, and a sharp ding echoed from each RWBY member's scroll."Ruby, go with Weiss. Yang, you're with Blake. And Rinko," Oobleck gestured toward Kakashi, "you're with me. We'll map out Mountain Glenn."Weiss gave Ruby a glance, her eyes still carrying a mix of frustration and determination. Yang, on the other hand, gave Blake a thumbs-up, ready for more action. Kakashi, though still amused by the earlier banter, nodded at Oobleck, knowing things were about to get serious."Stay alert," Oobleck's voice shifted to a more serious tone. "There's more to this place than just Grimm.""Understood." Kakashi slid his novel back into his pouch, his demeanor now focused and ready. The banter was over, and his eyes scanned the area cautiously. Oobleck continued walking beside him, his thermo flask raised to his lips.After a long stretch of silence, Oobleck spoke without turning his head. "Hm. Is there a real purpose for you to become a Huntsman, Rinko?"The question caught Kakashi off guard. He turned to Oobleck, his brow furrowed slightly in curiosity."I'm getting back my father," Kakashi answered, his voice steady. "And for me to do that, I have to become a Huntsman."Oobleck took another sip, still not meeting Kakashi's eyes. "No, I mean-what if your father wasn't kidnapped? Would you still want to be a Huntsman? Because being a Huntsman is about more than just rescuing someone. It's about serving something bigger than yourself."Kakashi was silent for a moment. He knew the truth in Oobleck's words all too well. It reminded him of his days as a shinobi, where missions weren't just personal-every action was tied to the safety and survival of the village, of the people you swore to protect."I know that," Kakashi said, his voice quieter, reflective. "It's not just about my father. It's about everyone I can protect-what I can do for others. Being a Huntsman isn't as simple as it looks. It's not just killing Grimm, but it's also about making sacrifices for the greater good. That's why I'm here."Oobleck gave a small nod, finally glancing over at Kakashi with a discerning look. "Interesting. I've heard many motivations for becoming a Huntsman, but that... Well, that aligns with the ideals we should aspire to. Just keep in mind, young man, the journey will test you. It's not always about who you save, but what you're willing to give up."Kakashi remained silent, contemplating Oobleck's words as they walked further into Mountain Glenn. The haunting silence of the abandoned city felt heavy, as if the ruins were still holding onto the echoes of past battles. The wind howled through broken windows, and distant growls of Grimm could be heard, but they seemed far off.After a few moments of introspection, Kakashi broke the silence, his voice more confident now. "I understand, Doctor Oobleck. I won't let anyone down."Oobleck glanced at him again, a brief flicker of approval in his eyes before he took another sip from his flask. "Good to hear, Rinko. Let's see if you live up to that resolve."The air felt colder as they delved deeper into Mountain Glenn. The distant sounds of Grimm grew closer, and shadows flickered in the corner of Kakashi's vision. He tightened his grip on his short sword, ready for whatever was coming.Kakashi could feel the weight of his new world pressing down on him, but it didn't deter him. If anything, it solidified his resolve. He wasn't just a Huntsman-in-training or a shinobi from another world. He was here for something greater than himself, and for the first time, that purpose felt clearer.Oobleck quickened his pace, his eyes scanning the area with a practiced gaze. "Stay close, Rinko. Something's not right."Kakashi didn't flinch. His grip tightened around the hilt of his short blade as the unmistakable roar of Grimm echoed through the ruins. From the shadows, three massive Ursas lumbered into view, their crimson eyes locked onto their prey."Hm," Oobleck muttered calmly, adjusting his glasses. "As expected. We are in a Grimm-populated area, after all." With a swift movement, his thermos flask clicked and shifted, transforming into a high-speed blaster.Kakashi, already analyzing the situation, noted the Ursas' size and their aggressive posture. "These don't seem like they'll go down easily," he commented, more to himself than anyone else."They rarely do," Oobleck replied, his tone casual. "But I trust a Huntsman-in-training like yourself is more than capable."With a smirk, Kakashi dashed forward, disappearing in a blur of speed. He moved like lightning, his blade flashing.He jumped as it cut through the first Ursa's eyes. He then proceeded to cut off its neck, the head of the Ursa fell from the ground but Kakashi was already moving to the next target.Oobleck fired precise shots at the second Ursa, slowing its movements and disorienting it. "Not bad, Rinko. Show me more of that speed."The second Ursa charged at Kakashi, its massive claws swiping through the air. He dodged effortlessly, slipping beneath its reach and driving his blade into its vulnerable underbelly. With a twist of his wrist, he sliced upward, leaving the creature howling in agony before it collapsed.Oobleck, meanwhile, kept the third Ursa at bay with rapid bursts of energy from his weapon. "Do try to save one for me, won't you?" he said, half-joking.Kakashi smirked as he leaped into the air, flipping over the third Ursa, his blade poised for another strike. In a seamless motion, Oobleck fired at the Ursa's legs, forcing it to stumble forward."Now!" Oobleck called.Kakashi's blade flashed once more, cutting through the Grimm's thick skull with precision.The Grimm laid on the ground as they disappeared into dark dust carried by the wind.Kakashi landed softly on the ground, wiping his blade clean with a swift motion. "Well, that wasn't too bad."Oobleck raised an eyebrow, his weapon returning to its thermos form. "Impressive work, Rinko. Quick, efficient, and controlled. You may have the makings of a true Huntsman yet."Kakashi merely nodded, sheathing his blade. Despite the calm exterior, his senses were still sharp. Something about Mountain Glenn didn't sit right with him, and this encounter with the Ursas was only the beginning.Oobleck took a deep breath, surveying the now-quiet surroundings. "Let's continue, but keep your guard up. This area is crawling with Grimm, and I doubt we've seen the last of them."Kakashi's eyes narrowed slightly. "Agreed. Let's move."Few Hours LaterAfter a few more hours of cautious exploration, Dr. Oobleck halted, his keen eyes scanning the abandoned building as they went inside, checking the rooms, making sure it's cleared."We'll take refuge here for now," he announced, motioning toward what appeared to be an abandoned building. Its walls were crumbling, but it offered enough cover from prying eyes-and from Grimm."Finally," Yang sighed, wiping some sweat from her forehead. "I could use a break.""Same," Ruby agreed, gently setting Zwei down before stretching her arms. She then glanced toward Kakashi, who, despite the physical strain, looked just as composed as ever.Kakashi leaned against a nearby wall, eyes scanning the horizon. Even in Rinko's body, he felt a growing tension within the group. The faint air of unease, the constant threat of Grimm-it was all too familiar. He glanced at Weiss, who was frowning as she checked her scroll for any signals."We should be careful," Kakashi spoke quietly, catching her attention. "This place... it feels like it's hiding something more."Weiss gave him a thoughtful look, then nodded. "Agreed. Something doesn't feel right here."As they rested, Oobleck took another sip from his thermos. "This city, once a thriving community, is now just a graveyard of failed ambition," he remarked, staring into the distance. "Be mindful of that as we proceed. It's not just Grimm we need to watch out for."Yang frowned as she nodded.Ruby looked around uneasily, petting Zwei for comfort. "So what do we do now?""We rest," Kakashi said calmly, kneeling to create a fire using just sticks and dead leaves.The flames flickered to life, small at first, but he blew gently on the spark until it brightened, consuming the dry material. Soon, a warm fire crackled before them, pushing back the chill of the evening air.Team RWBY watched in awe, impressed by Rinko's resourcefulness. It wasn't every day they witnessed someone start a fire with such ease, deepening their respect for him. Oobleck nodded in approval, acknowledging Rinko's skills as a Huntsman and a reliable companion.As Kakashi tended to the fire, ensuring it would burn steadily, Weiss broke the silence, her voice slicing through the calm of the night like a blade. "How are you able to do this, Rinko?" she asked, her tone softer and more inquisitive than usual.Kakashi looked up, surprised by her question. "Hm?""Back in Atlas, all you did was study and deal with Father," Weiss pressed, a mix of curiosity and concern on her face. "So, since when are you able to muster such skills-like fighting or making a fire?"Kakashi paused, considering his answer. "Survival skills aren't just for Huntsmen," he said, a hint of amusement in his voice. "I had to learn how to fend for myself, especially after-" He hesitated, not wanting to delve too deeply into his past. "Let's just say, when you're on your own, you pick up a few things along the way."Weiss studied him intently, her expression shifting from curiosity to something more contemplative. "You've changed... Are you really my brother, Rinko? You've even gotten... bigger." Her gaze fell to his arms, noting the muscles that had developed.Kakashi let out an amused laugh, flexing playfully. "Must be from all the pouting you do; you forgot to notice these bad boys, huh?""Forget what I just said," Weiss rolled her eyes, though a small smile tugged at her lips.Kakashi leaned back, feeling the warmth of the fire against his skin as Ruby rummaged through her bag."Y'all want marshmallows?" she asked, holding up a bag and handing one to each member of Team RWBY, including Rinko."Thank you, Ruby," Kakashi nodded appreciatively."Woah, let's cook them!" Yang exclaimed, grabbing a nearby stick and blowing off the dust before spearing a marshmallow. She held it over the fire, excitement lighting up her features.Soon, everyone joined in, sticks in hand, holding their marshmallows to the flames. The air filled with the sweet, enticing aroma of roasting marshmallows.Oobleck stood back, observing with a fond smile. He appreciated the camaraderie blooming between the young Huntsmen and Huntresses. It was a reminder of the bonds forged through shared experiences, even amidst the dangers lurking in Mountain Glenn."Just be careful not to burn them," he said, his voice teasing yet cautious, watching the marshmallows slowly brown over the fire. "We don't want to attract any unwanted attention, do we?""Relax, Doctor! It's just marshmallows," Yang shot back playfully, winking at him as she carefully rotated her treat over the flames.Kakashi chuckled, feeling more at ease among his teammates. This moment of lightheartedness was exactly what he needed to push back the shadows of uncertainty.As they shared stories and laughter around the flickering flames, Kakashi listened intently, forming bonds with the rest of Team RWBY. Each joke, each shared memory deepened his connection with them, solidifying a sense of belonging that he had longed for ever since joining Beacon.As the fire began to die down and the night air grew cooler, everyone began to say their goodnights. Kakashi volunteered to keep watch, a grin spreading across his face as he realized he finally had the time to finish his novel.Settling at the edge of their camp, he swung his legs playfully, feeling a mix of excitement and contentment. The quiet enveloped him as he opened the book, his eyes scanning the pages. He let out occasional giggles, absorbed in the antics of the characters."This must be Icha Icha but from Remnant," Kakashi whispered to himself, chuckling once again as the climax of the story built in tension.The thrill of the narrative surged through him, distracting him from the eerie stillness of Mountain Glenn. For a moment, he lost himself in the world of the novel, forgetting the dangers outside their temporary refuge, feeling utterly at peace with his newfound family."Rghh... When will he stop giggling?" Weiss grumbled behind Rinko, everyone was asleep except for her and Rinko.[End]