The match concluded, with Team RWBY emerging victorious. It wasn't an easy fight by any means-Team ABRN had proven to be formidable opponents-but that only made the victory sweeter. Exhausted yet exhilarated, Team RWBY basked in the cheers of the crowd before making their way off the battlefield.As the group reunited, Yang stretched her arms over her head, still riding the adrenaline. "Phew! That was a workout. I'm starving. What's next, burgers or noodles?""Food sounds like a great idea," Ruby chimed in, her usual energy undiminished despite the tough battle.The rest of the gang quickly agreed, already debating where to eat. But Rinko lingered near the edge of the arena, his gaze fixed on the now-reset battlefield."Y'all go ahead," Rinko said, his tone calm and reassuring. "I'll catch up with you later."Weiss raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "You're not coming?"He shook his head slightly, offering her a small smile. "I want to see what the next fighters are to offer."Weiss studied him for a moment before nodding. "Suit yourself. Don't take too long."As Team RWBY and the JNPR headed out, their laughter and chatter fading into the distance, Rinko found himself alone amidst the bustling arena.The next match was set to begin: Shade Academy's team versus Haven Academy's.The combatants stepped onto the stage as the arena floor shifted once more, transforming into a new environment tailored for the battle ahead.The roar of the crowd surged anew, but Rinko remained composed, his eyes narrowing slightly as he analyzed the competitors.Though he wasn't as emotionally invested in this match as he had been in Team RWBY's, it still held his mild interest.Each movement, every tactic employed, became a puzzle for him to unravel. His mind worked quietly, observing how the teams coordinated, how they adapted to the dynamic terrain.Rinko's lips curved into a faint smirk. 'So this is what Haven and Shade bring to the table... Interesting.'As the match concluded, Shade Academy's team stood victorious, their ruthless and calculated tactics leaving a lasting impression on the crowd.They moved with precision, exploiting every weakness in their opponents with almost unnerving efficiency.Rinko leaned back slightly in his seat, a faint smirk curling on his lips. Satisfied from the fight.Despite the lack of personal investment, he found himself quietly impressed.Shade Academy had shown a level of cohesion and strategic brilliance that piqued his interest.But the spectacle was over, and with a quick glance at the clock, Rinko decided it was time to regroup with Team RWBY.Rising from his seat, he made his way toward the exit, his mind already shifting focus to the next step.But just as he approached the threshold, Professor Port's voice boomed through the speakers."Our next fight will be... interesting," Professor Port announced, his tone brimming with intrigue."Interesting indeed, my friend," Doctor Oobleck added, his rapid speech cutting through the murmurs of the crowd. "You see, this fight will deviate slightly from the usual format!"The crowd stirred, curiosity rippling through the audience. Rinko's steps slowed, and his brow furrowed."This next fight," Oobleck continued, pausing dramatically to clear his throat, "will feature the only one-man team in all of Beacon Academy!"The reaction from the crowd was instantaneous. Gasps, murmurs, and exclamations of surprise filled the air. Some attendees exchanged confused glances, others buzzed with excitement, and a few leaned forward in their seats, eager to see who this mysterious competitor was.Rinko froze in his tracks, his foot halting just at the exit. Slowly, he turned back toward the arena, an incredulous expression spreading across his face."You've got to be kidding me," he muttered under his breath, his icy blue eyes narrowing.Beacon Fairgrounds, Team RWBY & Team JNPRThe lively atmosphere of the fairgrounds buzzed with laughter, chatter, and the enticing aromas of various food stalls.Team RWBY and Team JNPR had gathered around a picnic table, enjoying a quick meal and discussing the earlier matches of the tournament.Ruby slurped her noodles happily, the clinking of chopsticks against her bowl filling the air.Yang leaned back in her seat, casually munching on a burger, while Nora was already halfway through her third turkey leg.Everyone seemed relaxed—until the announcement blared from the large display screen near the center of the fairgrounds."..This next match," Oobleck voice echoed through the speakers around the Fairgrounds, his dramatic pause building anticipation, "will showcase Beacon Academy's only one-man team!"A ripple of surprise ran through the crowd, some murmuring in confusion while others gasped in excitement. Team RWBY and Team JNPR, however, were frozen in shock.Ruby sputtered, noodles spraying everywhere. "PFFT—!"Yang bolted upright, her burger forgotten.Weiss gasped, "WAIT, WHAT?!"The group exchanged stunned glances before Yang clapped her hands on the table. "IT'S RINKO'S MATCH!""B-but that doesn't make sense!" Jaune stammered, wiping his face as he processed the announcement. "They haven't even gotten to the duos rounds yet!""To think he's already facing a four-man team..." Ren said, his voice calm but filled with admiration."That's insane!" Pyrrha exclaimed, a mix of concern and awe in her voice. "A one-man team against four fighters? That's almost unheard of in the history of the Amity Tournament!""AND IT'S GONNA BE AMAZING!" Nora yelled, jumping onto the table with a turkey leg in hand. "COME ON, LET'S GO WATCH!"Blake, who had been quietly observing the exchange, stood up and brushed off her coat. "She's right. If it's Rinko, this match is going to be worth seeing."Without hesitation, the group scrambled to their feet, their food forgotten as they bolted toward the nearest path to the arena. Ruby, despite her earlier surprise, couldn't hide her excitement."This is gonna be so cool!" she cheered, her silver eyes sparkling.As they ran, Yang grinned. "Yeah, but we're not just watching a fight. We're about to watch Rinko remind everyone why he's Beacon's one-man army!"The fairgrounds buzzed with similar excitement as others rushed toward the arena, the whispers growing louder:"Who's Beacon's one-man team?" An Atlassian student asked"Wait, is it that guy?" One of Beacon's student comments"I heard he's a Schnee!" Another Beacon student murmured.The anticipation was palpable. Team RWBY and Team JNPR knew one thing for certain-this match was going to be unforgettable.Amity ArenaThe energy in the arena was palpable, the roar of the crowd ebbing and flowing like waves as excitement filled the air. Spectators leaned forward in their seats, eager for the next match to begin. Anticipation buzzed across the audience, each attendee waiting for the promised spectacle.At the announcer's stand, Professor Port stood tall, his voice booming across the arena. "Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, prepare yourselves for an unforgettable clash of skill and strategy!"The crowd erupted in cheers, and Port's grin widened as he continued. "This match will be a one-versus-four showdown! Representing the pride of Shade Academy, a team known for their daring feats and boundless energy-Team SSSN!"A spotlight swept across the stage, revealing the four fighters of Team SSSN standing in their corner. Sun Wukong, with his usual carefree smirk, waved confidently at the crowd. Neptune flicked his hair back, basking in the cheers. Sage stood firm and stoic, while Scarlet gave a small, composed nod to the audience. Their charisma and teamwork were well-known, and the crowd roared their approval."And their opponent..." Professor Port paused dramatically, letting the suspense hang in the air before continuing, "from Beacon Academy, the enigmatic and lone warrior of a one-man team... Rinko Schnee!"The arena fell into a stunned silence for a split second before erupting into a cacophony of cheers, gasps, and murmurs. Whispers rippled through the stands:"Rinko Schnee? Isn't he from the Schnee family?""A one-man team? That's insane!""Can he really take on Team SSSN by himself?"The spotlight shifted, illuminating the opposite side of the arena. A lone figure stepped forward, his presence commanding immediate attention.Rinko Schnee walked into view, his steps measured and deliberate. The pristine white of his polo shirt gleamed under the lights, a stark contrast to the black katana strapped diagonally across his back.His silver-blue eyes swept across the arena, locking onto his opponents with a gaze as cold and unyielding as ice.There was no arrogance in his expression-only calm determination and the quiet confidence of someone who had walked through countless battles and emerged victorious.The crowd's roar seemed to intensify as they took in his composed demeanor.Rinko came to a stop at the center of his corner, rolling his shoulders slightly as though loosening up for what was to come.With a calculated movement, he shifted his weight and placed his hand near the hilt of his katana, a gesture that spoke volumes. He wasn't just ready for this fight-he was in control.In their corner, Team SSSN exchanged glances. Sun's smirk widened, but there was a flicker of caution in his golden eyes."This guy looks tough," Neptune muttered, gripping his trident a little tighter."Doesn't matter," Sun said, though his tone was a mix of excitement and focus. "It's four against one. We've got this."Meanwhile, in the audience, Team RWBY and Team JNPR had just arrived, breathless from their dash to the arena. They barely had time to find seats before Ruby leaned over the railing, her silver eyes wide with awe."It's starting!" she exclaimed.Yang crossed her arms, her eyes fixed on Rinko. "He's so calm... I'd be freaking out if I had to face a whole team by myself.""He's used to this," Blake murmured, her gaze steady. "Rinko isn't just anyone.""That's why this is going to be incredible!" Nora exclaimed, practically vibrating with excitement as she bounced in her seat. "Come on, Rinko! Show 'em what you've got!"Her enthusiasm was infectious, and the rest of the group couldn't help but feel the buzz of anticipation in the air.Weiss, however, was quiet. She gazed down at the arena, her fingers gripping the rail tightly.There was an odd mix of emotions stirring within her—excitement, pride, and a faint but undeniable trace of concern.Her brother was about to face four opponents on his own, and yet, instead of being overcome with worry, she found herself strangely confident in his abilities."GO AND SHOW THESE DOLTS WHAT YOU CAN DO, BROTHER!" Weiss shouted, her voice cutting through the roar of the crowd. Her words carried a fire of encouragement, surprising even herself.Back in the arena, the tension was palpable. The crowd was on edge, eager to witness the seemingly impossible matchup unfold."Hey, you! No hard feelings okay? We'll kick your butt soon!" Sun yelled, smirking.Rinko—Kakashi—was composed as ever as he only responded with a smile and a nod.He really is humble. Giving the children a false hope of winning.Professor Port's voice echoed once more."Fighters, take your positions! And may the best warrior-or team-win!"As the countdown began, Rinko's hand tightened around the hilt of his katana. He took a deep breath, his calm exterior betraying none of the energy coursing through him.The crowd held its collective breath as the final seconds ticked down."Three... two... one... FIGHT!"With a burst of speed, Rinko unsheathed his katana in one fluid motion, its blade catching the arena lights as he charged forward.The crowd roared, and the battle began.Ozpin, Glynda, and IronwoodGlynda's heels clicked sharply against the floor as she turned to face Ozpin, her eyes narrowing behind her glasses.The faint buzz of the arena's cheers barely reached the control room, but the tension between the three figures was almost tangible."I really don't understand you, Ozpin," Glynda began, her tone sharper than usual. Her posture was rigid, her displeasure evident. "Why would you pit Rinko Schnee, a lone fighter, against a full team? This isn't a fair match—it's reckless!"Ironwood crossed his arms, standing beside her. Though his expression was more measured, there was a flicker of doubt in his steel-blue eyes."I have to agree, Ozpin. This decision raises questions. The arena's about fostering teamwork, not showcasing individual talent. What exactly are you hoping to accomplish?" Ironwood spoke.Ozpin, standing near the control console with his ever-present mug of coffee, glanced at the two of them. His relaxed demeanor was in stark contrast to their concerns.He took a slow sip before setting the mug down on the console, the faint clink of porcelain breaking the silence."Ah, Glynda, James," Ozpin began, his voice calm, almost amused. "Your concerns are valid, as always."Glynda's brow twitched, her patience visibly wearing thin. "This isn't about being 'valid,' Ozpin. It's about fairness and responsibility. Rinko may be skilled, but this is—"Ozpin raised a hand gently, interrupting her. His eyes twinkled with a knowing smirk as he turned fully toward her. "Do you truly believe I would make such a decision without reason?"Glynda folded her arms, her lips pressing into a thin line. "I would like to believe so, but you're not exactly reassuring me right now."Ironwood chimed in, his tone firmer. "We're not questioning Rinko's capabilities. He's proven himself more than capable in combat. But throwing him into a one-versus-four match? Against a team as formidable as SSSN? It borders on irresponsible."Ozpin chuckled softly, the sound light but deliberate. "Irresponsible, James? Or perhaps an opportunity? Consider this: What better way to test Rinko's resilience, adaptability, and strategic mind than against an entire team?""That doesn't justify the imbalance," Glynda snapped, her voice rising.Ozpin tilted his head slightly, his smirk deepening. "Balance is not always a constant, Glynda. Life often throws us into situations where the odds are stacked against us. It's how we respond to those challenges that truly defines us."Ironwood's frown deepened, but he didn't immediately reply, clearly weighing Ozpin's words.Glynda, however, wasn't convinced. "And what of Team SSSN? This isn't just a test for Rinko—it puts unnecessary pressure on them as well. They're being made to fight as though their opponent is a real threat, and it skews the dynamics of what's meant to be a fair tournament."Ozpin turned back to the monitors, where the match was just beginning. The camera zoomed in on Rinko as he charged forward, his katana gleaming under the arena lights."You're right, Glynda. It isn't a fair match," Ozpin admitted, his tone quiet yet resolute. He glanced back at her, his smirk fading into something softer. "But Rinko doesn't need fairness. He needs to be challenged. And so do they."Glynda opened her mouth to retort, but Ironwood raised a hand to stop her. "Let's see how this plays out," he said reluctantly, his gaze fixed on the screen.Ozpin picked up his mug again, taking another sip. "Trust in the students, Glynda. They have a way of surprising us."Ozpin's smirk faded slightly as his thoughts turned inward, his gaze lingering on the screen where Rinko stood poised, katana in hand.The young man exuded a calm confidence, a composure that seemed almost unnatural for someone his age.'There's something about him...' Ozpin mused silently, his expression betraying a rare flicker of curiosity. Something familiar.He folded his hands behind his back, his eyes narrowing slightly as he watched Rinko move with precision, each step deliberate and measured.The way the young man carried himself—calm, collected, and always prepared—reminded Ozpin of something.It wasn't just Rinko's skills that had caught his attention. No, it was more than that.His demeanor,his maturity,the way he approached every challenge with unwavering focus—it all felt too refined for someone his age.'He's more mature than his years,' Ozpin thought, his brow furrowing slightly. 'Far more mature. Always attentive, never offering an incorrect answer. The perfect student... Almost as if he's lived this life before.'The idea lingered in Ozpin's mind, sending a chill down his spine.He knew that sensation all too well—an awareness of something beyond the present, an understanding that came from experiences one shouldn't yet have.It was the hallmark of someone who had faced countless trials, someone who had been forged by hardships no ordinary youth could endure.Ozpin remembered Rinko's figure a year ago, before, he was slim, always loved sugar, smart and yet arrogant. But when he came to Beacon after his father got captured by Bandits-he was far-FAR more different than he already knew.Since Rinko was supposedly a business man, and yet, in one of Doctor Oobleck's reports, Rinko was able to start a fire with ease as if he had the experience necessary for it back at Mountain Glenn mission.To normal people, it looked like Rinko was just a prodigy—which he is—but to Ozpin with his years of wisdom and experience, it is bound to raise some suspicion for the old Headmaster.'And yet, there's something more... Ozpin's grip tightened slightly behind his back. 'His actions... the way he carries himself... it feels familiar. Too familiar.'A faint memory stirred in the depths of his mind—fragments of his own past lives, flashes of moments when he, too, had found himself starting over, reincarnated again and again.Each time, he had been forced to relearn, to adapt, to grow, and yet there was always a core part of him that remained unchanged.'Rinko reminds me of that...' Ozpin realized. 'As if he's walked this path before, much like I have. And that's what I want to know. Who is he, truly?'His gaze sharpened as he focused back on the match. 'That's why I pitted him against a full team. Not just to test his strength or skill, but to see how he reacts under pressure.''To see if there's more to him than meets the eye.'A small smile returned to Ozpin's lips, though it carried a hint of melancholy. 'If I'm wrong, then he'll walk away having learned something valuable. But if I'm right...'He didn't finish the thought, but it lingered in the air like an unspoken truth."Perhaps... Reincarnated, like me." He whispered to himself, too low for Glynda and Ironwood to hear.[End]