(A/N)

Hello everyone, I am DarthGlaurung and pleased to make your acquaintance. Darth for short if you want. I have had this idea floating in my head for a long time now, and I have always lurked around reading stories here and there. So, I figured I would give this writing gig a shot and see how it plans out. This is my first attempt to write a story, so I would very much appreciate any feedback people are able to give. Especially constructive criticism. There, really isn't much else for me to say at this point, I suppose. So, lets get on with it, and I hope you readers enjoy yourselves as much as I do writing it.

Darth


Fade Brightly

Chapter 1

Have you ever looked up into the night sky? Questioning into the everlasting dark. As your thoughts whirl and cry out, where you belong? There must be a place for you. Somewhere out there that would accept you for who you are. Even if your hands are stained, would you be accepted? Or would your past swallow you into a deep and dark pit. Drowning you into its depths.

But before you are consumed in its shadowy depths. Stars twinkle illuminate your existence, overshadowing and covering the night in all their dazzling glory. You look and gaze within their brilliance, but no matter how far you gaze. No matter how long you search among the stars. You are unable to find that one bright light. The radiant warmth and light that is for you, and you alone. Time flows without a care for your plight, and the longer you search. The question continues to grow and linger, whispering and thumping.

"Do I even belong at all?"

Two orbs of sweet honey shine and question into the night. The twinkling of the stars reflecting upon her eyes in silence. "I wonder, what it would be like." One-by-one the stars flicker into brilliance like an unsung musical. "To shine like a star within the sky. Would people look at me? Or would I just be another amongst the cluster in the background." Her arm slowly raises with an out-stretched hand. A black glove wrapped around her hand like a second skin. With her fingers spread and wide, she gazes through them into the light. A large star shines through the cluster, a bright blue. With a soft frown, her hand clasps into a fist. Wishing with all her might, to grasp that light into the palm of her hand. And never let go.

"One day."

Her slim arm drops down with a soft thud as she grasps onto the edge of the dumpster rail. She swings her legs back and forth in boredom. Her nose wrinkles as a stench begins to make itself known. 'Of all places. Why this alley? It's starting to stink.' She leans back with her legs kicked out as her honey eyes trail along the roof-tops of the buildings. The bangs of her hair tinkle against her cheeks as she begins a soft and quiet hum. A soft chime ringing throughout the alley. She sways her head side-to-side. Her hair an ash color gray as two pigtails at the back of her head, tickle her neck. She giggles softly to herself before soft pitter-patter of foot steps along the bricks grasp her attention.

"My, my, look what the cat dragged in." An amused male's voice calls out toward her. "Didn't think I would find you here, Fairy. To what, do I owe the pleasure?" Honey colored eyes gaze toward his direction with a soft tug on the corner of her lips. His lone green eye gazes back before it rolls in annoyance. "Of course, how could I forget. You were always such a great conversationalist."

Her voice was soft and a whisper in the alley, but easily heard, "Mm, I try." She then kicks her feet back and forth, out of sync. The heels of her ash colored boots tapping against the metal. They raise up toward her upper shins as her black pants tuck into the footwear. They hug onto her curvy hips, but with a slight lax.

A snort of amusement follows a quirk of his lips into a grin. "Well, I am an understanding gentleman. So, out of the graciousness of my heart, I'll overlook it." His medium orange length hair sways over his eye as he crosses an arm over his chest with a hook cane. A white long-coat fluttering from his movements from an exaggerated and mocking bow. "After all, people with such excellent fashion choices must stick together." His arm moves as he tips his felt bowler hat up and exposes his mischief eye. "Right?"

A soft giggle emits from her lips as she raises up a hand and tips up her own black top-hat. An ash colored ribbon wrapping around its base with a decorative bow. She kicks out her legs and tosses out her arm with a jazzy shimmy. "Mm." A black belt holster is easily visible as it wraps around her waist with a silver buckle. Two mythril daggers holstered onto each hip. An ash colored blouse with silver heart buttons tucked into her pants. A chime sounding from the bright silver bell attached to a black felt bow around her blouse's collar. A black sleeveless vest with silver trimming wraps over her blouse.

The man chuckles as he snaps back up with an arm behind his back as the other twirls his cane like a propeller. "So, Fairy, what brings one of your wonderous talents to this humble alley?" He begins to pace toward her as his dress shoes click against the brick. "If you're here, then you already know why I am here, don't you?"

He watches her slip off the dumpster with a soft hop and thump against the ground. Dusting off her clothing, her hand reaches up and tilts her top-hat back on straight as she looks toward him. "Mm, I do. You plan to rob From Dusk till Dawn."

"Hah-hah-hah." Tucking the cane under his arm pit, he slowly claps his hands while striding toward her. "Wonderful, simply wonderful. I will never understand how you can get such sensitive information so secretly. To be honest, I am quite envious." His eye shines dangerously as he stops for a moment before her. "A talent like that, could make certain powers that be…" His eye closes into a smile along with lips as he circles around her as he stands with his back toward her. "precarious and treacherous." He easily towers over her petite height. The teen was small beyond compare. You would think she was a ten or twelve-year-old.

She tilts her head back, the corner of her eye gazing toward him, "Then they will learn to respect the Fairy, just like all the others." A small glow flickers within her honey eyes.

"Yes!" The man whirls around in excitement as he happily jaunts back around before slamming his cane onto the ground. He leans his weight onto it while gazing toward her. "That's the spirit! See, that's why you're one of my most favorite hires! Never a dull moment when you are around, and you got guts. I like those with guts." He kicks his cane and spins it around once more, "So, lets get down to business. Time is money, and I love my money."

Hey brow arches in amusement, "I thought you loved your hat."

"Ah, well yes. I do love my hat." His hand reaches up and gently glides along the trim, "Isn't that right, sweetheart? But enough about that, down to business. I assume you are here to offer your services, right? It's a small-time gig, so there won't be much Lien going around."

The dubbed, Fairy, cocks her hip to the side as she places her hand upon it. Staring toward the man for a moment, silence reigns in as he waits patiently for her response. Her tongue pops out a small click before shaking her head, "Sorry, that's not why I am here today, Torchwick."

"Oh?" Torchwick straightens his back as he looks at her questioningly. His cane held behind his back as his head tilts toward the side amused, "So, then why are you here? I apologize if you are here to admire my good-looks as I didn't get to beautify myself this morning. But I am charming in all the same."

She rolls her eyes in annoyance, must he always be up his own ass? It was amusing the first few times, but now he is just conceded. Her weight shifts a bit more and leans onto one leg with a cocked hip. "Sorry, that's not why I am here either. Even if you are so charming. I'm just so jealous of people that don't know you."

Torchwick blinks his eye before snorting, and then bellowing out into an amused laughter. "Hah-ha! I like you shorty, truly. You never fail to amuse me. So, then!" Slamming his cane down before him, he places both hands onto it as he tilts his head down slightly, his hat shadowing his eye. An ominous glint shining over his green. "Why are you here?"

Her arms slowly lower, her hands hover near her daggers for a quick draw if need be. A dark hue clouding over her honey eyes. Her weight slightly shifts toward her toes, preparation for quick movement. "I just came to deliver a message to you."

"Hoh~, a message you say? Well, I do enjoy getting love letters from adoring fans. But, as you can see I am quite busy at the moment, So-"

"I am closing up shop."

Torchwick stills for a moment in silence. He stumbles a step forward as he raises a hand toward his shaking head and cleans out his ear with a pinky. "What was that? I know I heard you wrong. I know you didn't say you are closing up shop." He looks toward her for an answer but is only met with silence and a cold stare. His lips drop into a deep frown. "Hey, hey. You can't just do that, Fairy. That's not how this works. You know that, don't you?"

Fairy's gloved hands tighten into fists at the comment as she clenches her teeth. "I know that. I am aware of how everything works in the underbelly. I have lived in it since I was young." Squeezing her eyes shut she inhales a deep breath. She has lived in the shadows for too long. What would it be like to live in the light? For once in her life. Opening her eyes, she steels her gaze into his lone green. Her bravado sparks into a growing flame. "That's just it though. I'm tired of this kind of life. I want something more. I only came to tell you this in person, is because of our somewhat history together. We were…acquainted?"

His eye closes as he sighs in a deep breath, "Look Fairy, I understand where you are coming from. Truly I do, but that doesn't change anything about this situation." Torchwick shrugs his shoulders in a 'what-can-you-do' manner, "I don't know if you could even consider us acquainted. You never even told me your name. Let me tell you, it really makes this awkward."

"Mm." Slowly inching backward into the alley, she keeps her eyes trained on his form. His green eye still glinting in danger. "Well, I said all that I needed to. So, now I will be on my way." She makes to leave, but his voice forces her into a halt.

Sucking in a loud breath through his teeth, he raises his cane and lays it across his shoulders. The other wrapping around it lazily as one leg crosses behind the other with his toes pressing down into the ground. "Yea…No, can't do that, Fairy." Her body tensions as he sashays side-to-side slightly. "You see, you have really put me in a bind here. You know who I am, and what I have been doing in this city. Not only that, you have that talent that I warned you about. If I let you go, that person would flay me alive."

Torchwick then begins to backpedal out of the alley as he stares into her honey coated orbs with his green. "Thing is, I am on a really tight schedule. This meeting of yours has really delayed me, so you're in luck. I can't deal with you myself but fear not. I have some friends that will keep you company." He reaches the end of the alley; he grins at her small figure before nodding his head in her direction. "Don't take this personal shorty. Its just good business. You six, get her. The rest of you, follow me. Its time, and the clock is ticking." He turns to leave before he halts and turns with an amused grin, "Oh, and bring me her hat. I would like it for my collection." Then he disappears out of sight.

Fairy snarls in anger at the sound of his white cloak fluttering into the night. 'That asshole, so he was just using me too, huh? They are all the same.' Her teeth clench in anger, 'Is that all I am to everyone? Just a tool to be used and then tossed aside?' Her arm raises and wipes at her eyes, 'Stop, you knew this would happen. That's just how this world works. There was never any hope that he would be any different.'

Her eyes narrow, the sound of multiple dress shoes pitter and patter against the cold brick alley. A mob of six goons pour into the narrow alley. Each is dressed in matching black tuxedos with bright red ties, red sunglasses and black top-hats. 'At least I can vent out my frustration on these goons.' Fairy notices that the narrow alley only allows them to charge two at a time. Her gloves wrap around the handles of her daggers as she pries them off their magnet holsters. She flicks her fingers in a twirl, the daggers spinning within her hands. Her legs spread into a defensive stance before she holds her weapons in a reverse grip and toward her front in a chest-face level.

The mob returns the gesture with an assortment of weapons flickering into their dominate hands. A wide variety of weapons from swords, a spear, batons, and pistols. A mouse scuttles along the walls behind her as a silent stand off ensures. The mouse peers up on its hind legs as it gazes into a metal trashcan with no lid. Without delay, it leaps over and grasps onto the slide of the can. The metal trashcan wobbles in a circle before slamming down onto the ground with a loud thud.

"Tonight, we honor the Fairy." Whispered out the petite teen.

Dashing forward and low to the ground, the first two goons are holding different weapons. The first goon wields a metal baton in the left and the other wielding a metal short-sword in his right. The left-handed baton user charges forward from her right with an angry scowl, Fairy uses her right hand to parry the baton. A small shower of sparks erupts, she then slides her blade against the metal. The right-handed short-sword user swipes low. Leaping toward her left at an angle over the swipe, her right leg extends out and roughly kicks at the baton users face with a smack. Her booted toes easily crushing into his jaw as his head twists at a painful angle. Twisting in mid-air like a torpedo, she combos out with a back-heel swipe with her left leg. She catches the same thug in the temple as his body completely spins out and slams into the wall as his weapon drops.

He passes out like a light.

She lands into a crouch on the ground, the short-sword user is already mid swing in an over-the-head strike. Her left blocks against the blow, another spark show rains down onto the bricks. Thrusting forward, the blade slams into his protective hilt, Fairy's right hand swipes her dagger and cleanly slices his forearm.

"Ack! You bitch!"

Her lips frown as the blade easily cuts through his suit, blood freely flowing out of the deep wound. 'They don't have protective aura.' She clicks her tongue in annoyance. 'I don't want to kill them. Not here, too many problems will come with it.' As he recoils in pain and gripping onto his arm, she tightens her grasp on the hilts of her daggers. Thrusting out her left fist, she slams it into his solar plexus. She doesn't have much brute strength, but it did its job. He doubles over as she follows up with a rising upper cut from her right. Her gloved knuckles slam into the underside of his chin. His head slams upward, Fairy hops upward at the violent contact and spins around as her heel lashes out. It slams into his temple and throws him against the wall in a flood of pain.

'That's two down.'

Fairy's lips raise up into a jaunty smug the third goon brandishes a long spear in both hands. 'Must be a rookie. Never bring a long weapon to a tight and enclosed space. Especially with…' Her eyes flicker up along the walls at the numerous amounts of balconies and fire safety escapes. Her top-hat wobbles very little at the sound of a click. Tightening her grip, she dashes low to the ground and circles toward the right and along the wall. A loud bang echoes into the alley, a bullet thunders into the ground where she was. 'Damn, I must be in range now.'

The spear user cuts her off as he thrusts forward. She narrowly dodges the spear toward the right, Fairy keeps her eyes trained on the shooter in the back. He once again thrusts toward her repeatedly, 'Well, he's not totally incompetent.' She notices a trash bag near her feet as an idea comes to mind. While the gangster thrusts toward her once more, she parries the blow downward at an angle. He grunts out in frustration as she dodges toward the trash bag, a bullet shatters into the brick behind her. Kicking outward, she punts the trash toward his head. The thug is forced to step back and strikes upward with the spear to knock the trash away.

The small teen appears below and dashing along the ground, the spear being held above his head. The mobster smirks as his hands tighten onto the pole. But he never notices her smirk was wider than his. Stepping back once more, he arches it over his head for a powerful overhead counter. "You're mine!" He pulls it down in a large arc, but a loud gong rumbles through the alley. His eyes widen into shock, the spear is forced out of his quivering hands. He tilts his head back ever so slightly as a fire escape ladder is directly above him. Before he could turn around, pain erupts like a flare in his shoulder.

Fairy slams her dagger into his shoulder before running him into the wall. As he slams into the wall, her knee raises and violently slams into his groin. She watches his eyes roll into the back of his head. Fairy does not linger for a second, she kicks off the wall before another bullet slices passed her face.

'Three.'

"Just shoot her already!"

"I'm trying, god damn it!"

Whirling around, she finds two more thugs charging in her direction. One with brass knuckles as the other dual-wielding two batons. The final goon is further back at the entrance with a pistol trained onto her. 'I need to take him out before I get hit. Its only a matter of time.' Tightening her grasp, she finds a large and closed dumpster near another escape ladder. With a quick and risky plan already formed, she charges the two thugs.

Another bullet speeds between her neck and shoulder, barely missing from her shifting position. Using her smaller frame to her advantage, she places the brass knuckle goon between her and the shooter. His fists raise into a brawler's stance. His arm raises for a punch to meet her head on, but she quickly darts off toward the left. His eyes startle, all three gangsters focus their gazes on to her.

Fairy slaps her left dagger back onto the magnet holster as she jumps onto the dumpster before instantly kicking off toward the ladder. Grabbing onto the first step, she continues her momentum and whirls around in an arc. Her right hand and dagger holding her hat, Fairy releases from the step ladder. It vaults her forward and through the air. It does not take the goons long to over comes their shock. The pistol wielder panics and swings his body and weapon toward her direction.

Her hand was faster, Fairy's right hand slacks a bit as the pummel slips between her fingers before grasping it firmly. With a quick flick of her wrist, the dagger propels through the air, a thin, metal cable connects the pummel to the spearing dagger. The blade slams against the pistol and slices into his hand and down his forearm. The mobster yells in agony, the pistol dropping on to the ground. "Son-of-a-"

Before he could finish, Fairy tugs onto the pummel. The blade whirls and retracts back into her grasp. Landing with a soft thump, she rolls along the ground, her free hand holding her hat into place. The momentum carries Fairy forward, she slices upward one corner of his lower body, up to his shoulder. Blood begins to ooze before she slams her shoulder into his chest, tackling them both out and into the abandoned street in the night. His head slams into the concrete as they tumble and knocks him out cold. Fairy skids along the ground in a low crouch, her free hand palms against the ground with her right holding up her dagger, the last two goons rush out of the alley.

'Four.'

They come to a halt as they drop into their own type of fighting stances. Fairy slowly rises to her feet and pulls out her left dagger, her honey eyes stare into the red shades with a soft glow. A streetlamp flickers before fading out, the two males charge toward her recklessly with a battle cry. The batons user reaches her first. Fairy parries the first mid swipe toward the side, before being forced to weave under brass fist. A second swipe from a baton sparks against her blade once more. Fairy's right dagger slams against the brass knuckles of a strong straight.

They force her to be on the defensive, alternating between dodging and blocking their blows. Thankfully they were not very coordinated, that strong, or fast. They were, however, an annoyance and waste of time. They were out of their paygrade. Deciding on her first victim. Fairy thrusts forward in a harsh parry. The baton user is forced to recoil to recollect himself. She then dashes toward him and drop kicks him away and down the street.

Fairy quickly dodges her head backwards. A black sleeve enters view violently. Sweat begins to pour down his face with labored breathes from over exertion. Talk about being out of shape. Kicking off forward, she begins her first assault in earnest. Fairy baits a swipe at his chest, his left hand easily blocks it, before following up with a swipe of her right from the side and a lower strike. The goon sloppily tumbles back to avoid the lower sweep. With her stepping foot from the attempt, Fairy thrust upward and into a backflip. The left leg lashes out in a brutal flash kick that snaps the gangsters head back viciously. His body easily lifts off the ground and floats backwards.

Fairy quickly lands back onto her feet, flicking her right hand forward with the dagger. The dagger sails through the air and stabs into his thigh. She makes sure he does not get up again.

'Five.'

A large shadow looms over her petite frame, forcing her to whirl around. Daggers are raised defensively out of instinct. Pain shocks through her arm in a surprise. Without delay, her toes kick off to create a safe distance. Fairy shakes her numbing hand with a click of her tongue. Her gaze turns toward the mobster, his baton sparking with electricity. 'Range it is.'

Slapping both daggers back onto their magnet holsters, she then reaches toward her lower back with her left. With practiced ease, a rectangular shaped object is whipped out from behind. A small groove for her hand to fit into within the center. Flicking it downward by the wrist, the object instantly pops open from two yellow gears rotating. A white and retractable bow now within her grasp.

The thug blinks in slight shock, "A bow? Who the hell uses a bow now-a-day?" Without waiting for a response, he charges forward with his batons dragging along the ground. A small trail of scorched asphalt left in his wake from the electricity.

Watching him charge from the front, Fairy rolls her eyes at his comment. 'Yea, yea. Everyone always gives me shit for using a bow. I know, its not as good as a gun, but I like it. Especially since I never have to worry about ammunition since it uses my aura for arrows.' She kicks back with her bow poised and ready at the draw of the string. A gray ash color aura emits from her body, flowing into the bow while it siphons at a tiny rate. Releasing the string, an ash colored arrow shoots through the air at a surprising speed. Slower than a bullet, but not by much.

Thankfully, he wasn't that skilled at dodging.

A loud smack forces him tumble toward the side; the arrow having slammed into his shoulder. He grunts into pain; it was like being struck by a hammer. The arrow shattered like glass at the instant contact. The thug's legs fumble around but he prevents himself from falling onto the ground. Gazing back up, his shoulder and arm shake, he looks up in anger, but then fills into dread. "Shit, shit, shit where did she go?"

He begins to whirl around in circles as he looks throughout the abandoned street. A soft bell chime rings out before an arrow slams into his back. "Ack!" Stumbling forward to recollect himself before he could fall to his knees. Whirling around the mobster steps forward in the direction of the arrow with an angry snarl. "You bit-"

All that remains is a discarded newspaper fluttering into the wind.

A bell chimes for a second time.

Another arrow slams into his knee from the side with a sickening pop. The pain is excruciating. He can't hold in the painful scream; batons lay forgotten on the street at the intense pain. That arrow held more power in it than the others. "W-what the hell are you?!" He is met with silence as he writhes in pain upon the street.

A bell chimes for a third time through the night.

His eyes widen in panic. That bell, that fuckin bell. Every time it chimes, he is met with pain. Why does she wear that dreaded bell?

Pain erupts from his neck as her boot presses down and roughly holds him against the street. He squirms and struggles, barely being able to peer through the corner of his eyes, cold sweat pours through his body and shudders with fear. She leans down as he begins to breath deeply and franticly.

Towering over him, the shattered moon bathes in its shadows with a large smirk upon her lips. A honey colored fire within her eyes.

"Now respect the Fairy."

Holding out her bow sadistically, she draws the string and fires off an arrow point blank. His head slams against the hard asphalt without mercy. She has a reputation to uphold. Fairy can not afford to let them go too unpunished. Else more people will line up to take her out. Eyeing over his uniform, it tickles onto the back of her head. It looks familiar.

Oh, well. Fairy is not going to lie though. She's not that upset someone tried to kill her. It would not be the first time, but what pisses her off the most, is that they were rookies. Novices, untrained henchmen. Like she wouldn't be worth sending someone of value. Sure, it may have been a spur of the moment thing. But the smart course of action would have been to let it go, and then send someone later.

With a nod of her head, Fairy raises a hand and tilts her top hat back into proper position once more. Her brow raises while gazing further down the street. Another squad of goons were knocked out cold on the pavement. Light reflecting off the ground from a liter of glass from the shattered window that belonged to a dust store. "Ah, From Dusk till Dawn. That's the store Torchwick was gonna heist. Must have gone south."

Serves the prick right.

A multitude of loud gunshots startle her stiff, whirling toward the source, she finds nothing on ground level. Fairy does notice a red cloaked figure dashing up the side of a building. A large scythe that was easily half a size bigger than the figure wielding it. 'Over-compensating much?' Being on the opposite end of the street, she finds an equally tall building with a fire escape reaching all the way up to the roof. 'I really shouldn't, but I am also curious to see what happened.' Against her better judgement, she rushes up the flight of stairs and reaches the roof with minimum fanfare.

A loud whirl of a bullhead flying ship fills the quiet night with its roaring engines. A familiar orange haired and white coat wearing bastard inside of it. Her fist clenches slightly with an angry snarl. "Torchwick." Of course, he would be alright. He was as slippery as a snake. A flamboyant and hat wearing snake, but a snake none-the-less.

"End of the line, red!"

Her hat twitches slightly at the sound, barely making out his shout. Looking down at the roof of the building she finally notices the red cloaked figure. She was red, really, really red. Or maybe it was just the cloak? There was a load of black also. Either way, she kind of looked like a rose bud. Before she could further study the red cloaked female, Torchwick throws down a large, red glowing crystal toward the girl.

Fairy's eyes widen at the large dust crystal. 'That's a big cluster. And it's a burn dust too, the explosion will be massive. There's nothing I can do at this distance.' The volatile dust arcs through the air toward the rose themed figure. A sudden bang pulses through the air from the sound of Torchwick's cane. She could not even flicker her eyes toward his direction before a massive rupture of fire thunders over the roof of the opposite building. The shockwave slams into her petite figure as she shields her face with an arm as the other holds down her hat by the trim. Her two small pigtails fluttering in the blast as the heat seers and licks onto her exposed skin. "Totally overkill there, Torchwick!"

The poor girl, she did not seem to be that old from a distance. Perhaps around the same age as her, she couldn't be sure. There was no reason to cause such a needless death. She clenches her teeth and balls her hands into fists as the flames flicker into extinction. Her eyes narrow at the laughing figure of Torchwick as the bullhead hovers over the building. "There was no need to go that far. Make your escape, why needlessly kill?" Her fists softly shake before they relax and slowly open. Her eyes flutter into a half-lid as her honey comb eyes glaze over in anguish as she gazes toward the tiled roof. But who is she to talk and preach?

Her hands were bathed in blood.

Before her thoughts could continue down into a spiral, a wave of purple energy whirls into the fire storm. It swirls outward like an expanding hurricane before the flames are overpowered by lavender energy, a purple barrier remains erect within the black smoke. 'Wait…a minute…' She shuffles closers toward the edge of her building, scanning through the fog. The purple energy becoming more dominate. Soon a tiny red figure remains standing, unharmed but clearly shaken and confused as to what happened.

'I have seen that barrier and colored aura on television before…'

An unseen force slams into the diminishing fog in a powerful gust. The black smoke is instantly vaporized as the roof is now completely exposed. With the widening of her eyes and gaping mouth, she watches a tall woman struts in a proper manner toward the red figured girl. A black pencil skirt with a white blouse and a black fluttery cape with purple on the underside. She snaps a riding crop toward her side before swinging forward, purple beams of energy whistle pass her blond locks and bombard the bullhead with destructive force.

"That's…Glynda Goodwitch…" Why is she here? She has been, for the most part, retired from field work. The last of the reports documented that she was a professor at Beacon Academy, and second-in-command under Headmaster Ozpin.

Her fist clenches onto her pants as she nibbles onto her bottom lip. Glynda Goodwitch is a shining example that all huntresses aspire to be. She carries herself with grace, and well-mannered. Anyone who ever met her would describe how she acts like a noble. Gifted with intellect as she is known for being one of the smartest huntresses to date. After all, she is a professor at Beacon Academy and only below the headmaster Ozpin. Glynda even has videos of her lectures online for free tutelage for those aspiring to be huntsman. Someone like her, lives in the light. Basks in the warmth as people look toward her for guidance and safety.

Of course, she would appear here. After all, isn't she a hero that everyone looks up to? Even she looks up to Goodwitch. What would it be like to live a day in that warmth and prestige? Its something she will never know. The light is something that shuns her. She will never know its warmth. The light does not shine down for someone with her sins. But she could always dream? Can't she? At least let her dream in its façade for once. Her hand slowly raises and reaches out toward Glynda Goodwitch on the other building. Her eyes glossing over in moisture, her hand begins to tremble. Her head shakes side to side ever so slowly and softly before her voice cracks out.

"Could I ever…Become someone as radiant as her?"

"I don't see why not."

Fairy whirls around with a fright at the sudden male voice. It was directly behind her; how could they get so close without her knowing? Was she really that out of it? 'He could have killed me if he wanted!' Her hands instantly drop toward her waist, ripping off her daggers from their magnet holsters, and raises them in a defensive stance. She kicks off the ground with the toes of her feet toward the side to create herself a safe distance. Her small pigtails lag as they flutter into the wind. "Who the he-"

Her mind crashes down in a burning bonfire. Honey coated eyes widen in complete shock, sucking in a sharp and frightful gasp of air. Of all people, why did it have to be him? Life really has a way of kicking her when she's down. Or would this be beating her with a bat type of analogy? Her arms quake as her daggers rustle within her grasp, her legs begin to buckle. Her mouth gapes open and close like a hungry fish, words becoming a foreign concept for her. When you meet a superior foe, there's only one thing you can do.

"All you have to do is-Hey."

He was unable to finish his sentence as the young woman hightails in a mad sprint toward the building's edge. Her boots loudly thumping against the tiled ground, her daggers slapped back against their magnets. His lip quirks into an amused grin as he watches her vault off the edge of the building and down into the alley.

"Like hell I am gonna stick around!"

Dropping down like a rock, Fairy holds her hat upon her head with her left. Nearing a hanging ladder, she grasps the side of it, and swings herself forward with all her might. Wind slams into her face as she vaults through the air, before landing within a pool of dirty water from a leaking air conditioning unit. Then she takes a chance and glances back up toward the ledge. Fairy finds him at the edge and staring down at her from the roof. She clicks her tongue before running through the alley.

'I have to escape. There's no way I stand a chance against someone of his level.'

She has just managed to work up the courage to turn her life around, and now here she was. Already on the run for her life. Why does everything have to go so wrong for her? Can't she just have a little bit of hope? Even if it's a lie. In her mad dash for freedom, she finds her path blocked at a T intersection. Trailing her right hand along the alley, she rounds the corner, clenching onto the brick in a tight grip. She swings her body around, so there is no loss of speed in the turn.

"Ack!"

Slamming on the brakes, Fairy skids against the cold brick. Her palm slams on to the ground, clawing at the ground in desperation. Of course, he would be faster than her, why did she think losing him would be that easy? If it was that simple, he wouldn't be renown as he was and herald as one of, if not the, strongest in Remnant. His eyes twinkle in amusement, watching her skid to a halt.

"Wrong way."

She snarls in frustration, dashing backwards with a kick of her feet. So, he's going to toy with her isn't it? Isn't that what everyone in power wants to do with her? Toy with her, mock her, and squeeze her for everything she's worth. No more, she does not want to do it anymore. She does not want to live like that any longer.

Spinning around in her retreat, she lashes out in frustration and slams over an overflowing metal bin of trash. Of course, it won't slow or even hinder him, but it was more for her own sake. Venting out her anger, but it didn't do her any good either. The dark thoughts were already beginning to swirl in her head, a storm forming within her mind. She couldn't get those brown eyes out of her vision. Like they are watching her behind those damn spectacles. Fairy follows the narrow path, her bell chiming with every step. Before long she is forced to skid into a halt, after turning a corner, a large chain-link fence blocks her path.

"Oh my, that's quite a big fence. What will you do now?"

Whirling around in anger, the snarl upon her face widens into an angry cry. Stop toying with her. Stop mocking her. She doesn't want this. Rage bubbles within her honey eyes as she dashes forward. That damn black suit with a dark green hue to it with a green buttoned vest under it. Already, her appreciation for the color of green is at an all-time low.

Rage clouds her judgement. Fairy assumes a fighting stance, her arms raised up and palms clawed open. His brow arches slightly, straightening his back in anticipation with a soft hum. Without pause, she leaps toward him aggressively. Her hand clenches to a fist for a quick jab. Her range was short. Why did she think it was a good idea to fight an obviously superior opponent in unarmed combat? She had absolutely no idea, but she wanted him to hurt. Whether it was logical, or a good judgement call was irrelevant to her. She just wanted to wipe that smirk off his face.

Her fist was easily dodged with a simple lean. Her leg strikes out toward his body, but he simply steps to the side as it whiffs through the air. 'He is so much faster than I am.' She then strikes out in a quick succession of jabs toward his body. There's no point in attempting to hit his head. There's no chance of her landing a blow there, but maybe she can get lucky in a body shot. Her hope was crushed as a large and firm open palm slamming into her chest. Her body rockets back and slams into the chain fence, the last of her breath rushing from her lungs.

"Hm…Not bad…but not good either. That temper isn't helping you much at all. Why not cool your head for a minute. I just want to talk."

Her vision refocuses, gulping down desperate breathes of fresh air. A coat of sweat shimmering along her soft skin. He's just waiting there, letting her catch her breath. Clenching her teeth, Fairy squeezes her fingers around the chain-link fence. If he wanted to give her time to recuperate, then that's his mistake.

"Don't-Oh dear."

He watches as she darts toward the left, hopping onto a trashcan, she vaults upward and grasps the base of a broken pipe. Swinging toward the fence, Fairy shoves her toes between an opening and kicks back toward a broken staircase. She repeats the action once more, her foot slams onto the rusting metal, it groans in protest before kicking off and vaulting over the high fence.

Free falling toward the ground, her feet slam into the ground before she rolls into a tumble. Losing momentum, she turns around and finds him standing on the opposite side, casually drinking from a hot beverage mug. His brown eyes gaze into her honey from behind his spectacles. Her voice was quiet and soft, "Its not fair…" His mug flinches before it reaches his lips for but a moment. He then takes a quiet sip.

Run.

Once more, she flees into the dark depths of the alley. Her legs are heavy and chest heaving in deep and rapid breaths. She's tiring. Running full-throttle for so long wares upon her petite frame. This small body is not built with vitality and stamina. Being so short really has its drawbacks. Whirling around a corner, Fairy runs along the wall in her turn, coming upon a final stretch of the back alley. The end of the tunnel leading out toward the streets as the lamp posts shine on the opposite end.

'Maybe I can lose him out there, its my only hope at this point. I can't shake him in the alleys.'

Nearing the halfway mark, her eyes widen before they narrow in desperation with a grit of her teeth. He casually strolls out from behind the wall as he spins a cane lazily in a circle. His white hair swaying and bobbing messily upon his head.

"Final stretch, what will you do now, Miss?"

All or nothing, either she gets passed him, or he puts her down.

Damn her luck. Damn this life.

The collision course is set, and she is going to run it through. There is no shying away. Lashing out with a hand, Fairy grabs a discarded trash bag and hurls it toward him. Her opposite hand snatching the lid of a trash bin. His cane lashes out and bats the trash back toward her. Hunkering down toward the ground and going under the bag, she hurls the lid like a frisbee.

With years of practice, he simply pulls in his arm as he catches the lid between his fingers. His eyes glance toward it with an intrigued expression. "Resourceful. That's good." Her non-throwing hand clenches onto the handle of her dagger. But then a harsh smack slaps onto the back of her hand, his cane lashing out like a viper. "Now, now, no need for that. You'll hurt someone. Namely, me."

He would assume that once you foil someone's strategies so many times, that they would eventually give up hope. A normal person would begin to panic once he interrupted their draw. After all, what's a huntsman without their weapon? Generally, they become the hunted. They are after all, made to suit their personality and make it flourish. That's why it brought a small startle to him when she didn't relent.

Just a tiny bit, if at all.

In fact, it only served to make her angrier, more desperate, like an animal. He watches her bunker down with her shoulder out. She tackles toward him attempting to shoulder check him in his solar plexus. A good plan, considering it was made on the fly, or did she already calculate it? Who knows, whether she did or not, the outcome would be the same regardless. She did give him something to use after all. He grasps the lid by the top side before thrusting it downward at her tiny frame. The lid slams against her face in a loud thwack.

Pain erupts from her face in a cry of agony. Fuck, that hurt. The momentum carries her downward and slams her back against the cold and hard brick. Once again, her lungs empty and starve for oxygen. She lays against the cool bricks, clenching her eyes as the lid is removed from her face. One hand quickly reaches upward and holds her nose as tears begin to leak from the corner of her eyes. Her vision swims while a certain figure gaze down at her. "That's quite enough. Don't you agree?"

Ah, its so frustrating. Why can't she ever catch a break? Its always something or someone. She finally worked up the courage to step into the light, but it came crashing down all around her. She didn't even get to take a step into the new world. Her hand slowly slides up and covers over her eyes as the tears begin to silently cascade around her cheeks. And now she was defeated here. She could only hope there are no records of her history, but it doesn't matter. Torchwick robbed a dust store and she was found near the scene of the crime. She will be treated like a criminal.

That wouldn't be inaccurate.

It's what she deserves.

But still…

"…It's not fair…"

"Oh, and what's not fair?"

Her bright red nose sniffles, the pain continues to throb, thankfully he didn't break it. She uses her arm to wipe away at the tears before her hand collapses against the cold, hard brick as she gazes up into the night sky. "Just…life…in general."

"Ah, yes. Life can be quite the fickle thing." She hears the soft sound of clicking before he seems to pocket something, and his cane is gone. "I should know. Life and I have an extreme dislike for one another. It doesn't want to let me go."

Her gaze stares into the night sky. The stars twinkle and shine brightly like beautiful diamonds in the night. Her lips thin in annoyance as she clenches her hands into fists. "What would you know about it? You are Headmaster Ozpin. You have it all. Fame, fortune, and you are surrounded by people that love and respect you. Don't patronize me like you understand."

Ozpin's eyes slowly close in a soft sigh. With a soft shake of his head, they flutter open ever so slightly, "My child, I understand more than you know. Believe me when I say, I have made more mistakes in this life than any man, woman, or child. So, now I am stuck here. Till I can atone for such mistakes."

Her gaze turns toward Ozpin with a neutral gaze within her eyes. Honey staring into brown as the retain her glare. She huffs through her nose, "I'll believe it…when I see it." She slowly raises up and rests upon her elbows, "After all, you are headmaster Ozpin. Loved by all and surrounded by adoration. Life has smiled upon you, just look where you are. What could you possibly have to complain about?"

His eyes flutter in understanding. Of course, she wouldn't believe that at face value. Who would? Its just as she said, he is headmaster Ozpin, and its one of the most, if not the, most respected position to hold. But even then, everyone has their secrets. He is no exception either. "Perhaps one day, you will find just how much I truly understand your plight. For now, all I ask is but a moment of your time." His large hand slowly reaches out toward her as it stops half-way. "If I may be so bold."

Her honey coated eyes stare toward the extended hand. Her gloved hand clenches into a fist, glaring up toward his neutral expression. "Why should I trust you?" Fairy's eyes squint into suspicion as she leans herself back and away from his hand. Afraid it will strike out toward her in a heartbeat. It would not be the first time, nor the last.

"Well, if I wanted to kill you, I would have long ago. All I want is to talk. Nothing more, nothing less."

Flinching back, she sucks in a breath through her teeth. Okay, well then. When you put it like that, he most definitely could have. Her arms slide back and shift her weight onto them. Well, it's not like she has a choice in the matter. There's no escape and she is at his mercy. Might as well go along with his ploy and hope for the best. With a pout she reaches out and clasps her small hand into his larger palm. "Not like you're leaving me much more of a choice."

She will play his game. For now. How deep does the rabbit hole go?

Her tiny body is easily hoisted up onto her feet. Staggeringly slightly to her feet, her legs feel like lead. Placing her hands upon her knees she leans forward and takes a deep and heavy breath. That was a series of unfortunate events. A hallow laugh squirms its way from her parted lips. Well, there's not much to do from this point. But go forward. With a nod, she raises her body up and pats down her clothing. Smoothing out any wrinkles she finds upon her clothing. Ozpin patiently standing before her quietly, like a gargoyle.

Maybe executioner would be more accurate?

Awkward thought.

Her bell chimes softly around her neck, gazing up into his eyes in wariness. With her lips pressed into a thin line, a hand reaches up toward her top-hat. "So, now wh- "

It's gone.

Panic ruptures into her being with labored breath. Hunching over slightly with her pupils dilating, sweat curls around her temples and cheek. 'No…no-no.' Her gloved hand quickly glides through her ash and sweat coated hair. The soft and silky threads clinging to her smooth skin. 'Nononono.' Whirling around, her vision swims with a frantic search for her hat. She can't afford to lose it, she needs it. It brings her comfort and proves her existence.

"Where is it? Where is it?!"

If she were to lose it, people would know. The hate would return. Their judging eyes. Their loud whispers as they point at her in disgust. They assume she couldn't hear them speaking about her. Degrading her into a second-class citizen.

An animal.

She can't find it.

Maybe she dropped it long before their chase came to an end. If so, she would need to fully retrace her steps. Something she doubts her capturer would be willing to do. With her back toward Ozpin, she shuffles around on her feet in a pitter patter. It was one of the only precious possessions that she owned. Her honey colored eyes gaze into the night sky, stars clustering into a beautiful milky way as the shattered moon floats through the abyss.

"It's not fair."

Her body slackens with her arms limp at the sides. The world cares not for her pain or lost treasure. Time continues its forever march. Her fingers cling against her pants, Fairy nibbles onto her bottom lip. With a soft sniffle her eyes squeeze shut to hold back a wave of tears. She won't cry. Not over something trivial such as this. When did she become such a cry baby? Big girls don't cry. Tears suck.

"Pardon me, Miss. But are you looking for this, per chance?"

A pause of silence deafens the alley, a stray paper flutters into the night. Puffing out a deep breath, she turns her eyes back toward Ozpin with a red dampness along the rims. There in his out-stretched hand, she finds it. Her beloved black felt top hat with its silk, ash ribbon wrapped around it with a cute bow.

She roughly swipes it out of his gentle hand. Her fingers careful as to not cause any suffering to her treasure. Not a word of thanks is uttered from her lips. After all, its his fault she lost it in the first place. Prick. She could care less if it was rude or not.

It was rude.

Hella rude.

Firmly plopping her hat back into place, she glides a gloved finger gently along the trim of her beloved hat. Her eyes close in happiness. Oh, joy. It was so good to have her beloved back upon her head. Life just isn't the same without it. Even if it was only gone for a few minutes. Lowering her hand, she nods her head once as it is snuggled upon her crown. Turning toward Ozpin, she scowls at his amusement. Her hands upon her waist, she strides toward him. Her head only reaching around the middle of his chest. She thrusts an angry finger out and pokes it against his broad chest. Well, at least she attempted to look intimidating. She probably looks more like a ruffled chipmunk.

Curse her shortness.

She's not short, everyone else is just abnormally tall. That's her excuse and she's sticking to it.

"You saw them, didn't you?"

His brow arches in pure amusement. With the curling of his lips, he tilts his head toward the side with a soft hum of thought. "I have no idea what you are talking about." She then puffs up in anger. Ozpin bellows out an amused snort of laughter at the comical expression. She really does look like a tiny mouse that had its cheese stolen. "Now, now, I jest. I did see them, but I must say. I found them to be quite cute. Fitting to say."

Placing her hands upon her hips, she bends over forward a bit. Squinting her eyes as she stares up into his handsome face. Her face a thin neutral expression. "Too old." With a huff, she shakes her head in a negative. Crossing her arms, she looks up toward him with a soft frown. "I don't like you right now either."

Ozpin blinks his eyes in confusion before his mouth softly questions her with a tilt of his head. "I beg your pardon?" Surely, she wasn't insinuating what he thinks she is.

"You're too old for me. I don't like you. I didn't think you were the type to flirt with young women. Amusing, but I don't like you. Plus, I don't think any girl would like to be chased down through a dark alley before getting their face slammed by a trash lid." She leans forward once more with her arms crossed as she stands upon her toes and up toward him with a neutral expression with a healthy gloss of wit behind her eyes. "Did I mention I don't like you?"

Brown eyes blink and stare at her in confusion and slight shock. His back straightens as he properly stands with his hands behind his back. Did she just accuse him of trying to flirt with her? Well then, that's a first any one has ever accused him of being a leecher in…ever. No…No he can not seem to recollect any moment in history when someone accused him of being a flirt. He can't help himself. His lips curl up into a smile before he cackles in amusement. His chuckle soft and hearty. Oh, joy. Its been so long since someone truly surprised him. To think it would be from this tiny girl. Amusing. "You are clearly mistaken, child. I am not trying to…woo…you if you will. I am afraid, that I am much, much too old for one of your age." Ozpin winks toward her playfully and teasingly, "Plus, my heart belongs to another. My apologies."

Her face is completely blank as she stands tall at her impressive tininess. Her voice completely void of any kind of emotion. It's like she was replaced with an android. "Shame. Such a shame. What ever will I do? How could I go on living? Woe to me, for my heart is shattered. So, what now?"

"Now," Ozpin spins around on his dress shoes as he tilts his head back toward her and beckons her to follow. "Now, we go for some coffee. I know a nice and quiet place around the corner. It is quite lovely, and the atmosphere is to die for. I am quite parched."

Fairy's brows crunch toward the middle with an amused snort, trailing behind his shadow. "Are you sure you're not trying to court me? First stalking me, then flirting with me, and now forcing me on a date for some coffee. You have a bizarre way of picking up women." She's met with silence as the man continues his stride out of the dark alley. Light begins to flood into her vision from the lamp posts dotting the streets. "Before we go out there, I have one thing to say." Ozpin slightly perks up; the only sign she knows she has his attention. "I don't…" Her left arm crosses over and rubs onto her right awkwardly and for warmth. "I don't do well in public. Especially crowded places."

All she receives in return is a soft murmur of acknowledgement as he nods, "I'll keep that in mind." As they make their way into the streets, the younger of the duo trails behind in the shadows. She quietly darts toward the walls and away from the light of lamp posts as much as she is able. Her bell chimes softly into the night as she hops to and fro in pace with Ozpin. An occasional drunkard or night-shift worker swaggers on through near them. Thankfully it was late in the evening. Not many people are about, and most stores are closed.

Small miracles.

Fairy startles before nearly colliding into Ozpin's broad back. Grunting out a startled cry, she backpedals quickly. He whirls around in amusement as he gazes toward her. Reaching up, she tilts her hat back on straight before pouting up toward him. With a single stride, he turns toward a glass door and holds it open for her. Ozpin slightly bows as he graciously motions his arm for her to enter. "After you."

With an upward turn of her nose, she slinks in and slithers against the wall in hiding. She never even bothered to look at the name of the coffee shop. Her nose twitches at all the strong aromas of various coffees. It was quite homey now that she takes a moment for a feel of it. A large bar straight ahead and made of wood with stools along the trim. There were also booths lining the outer walls, but the one thing that she did like the most. It was all the dim lighting, it wasn't that bright, but just enough to illuminate the shop.

A tall figure easily wisps next to her, Ozpin strides toward a corner booth in the back and away from prying eyes and ears. The dim lighting melding the dark wood and black cushions into the shadows. Ozpin stands near his side of the booth as he motions out his arm for her toward the opposite end of the booth. She rolls her eyes at his slight bow toward her. With a soft snort, she scrunches her nose lightly, "You'd make a great butler in another life." She shuffles into her booth toward the wall, the corner giving her slight comfort with the seclusion it provided.

Slightly tilting his head, his brown eyes twinkle knowingly one corner of his lips twitch upward, "Yes, I'm sure I was a great butler. In another life of mine." Watching her saddle into her cushion, he slips into his own booth. Ozpin watches her eyes wonder about the café as she huddles up into the corner of the booth. Watching her press into the corner of the booth brings a slight frown to his lips. So that's what she meant when she doesn't do well in public. Its kind of sad, to see her trying to meld into the wall. There are not many people here either. Maybe just one or two customers during this time of night.

A soft patter of heels click on the wooden floor before a tall woman approaches their table with a notepad tucked neatly into her black apron. Simple brown hair in a bob, reaching down toward her neck with gray eyes with a green hue mixed into them. Black work pants and a simple white dress shirt. Her face was calm with a soft and gentle expression, but her aura was mature. She tilts her head in greeting with a soft hand resting upon the backrest of the booth. The waitress glances in Fairy's direction first, "Good evening, Ma'am." The girl startles in a spook at being called out. "Good evening, Headmaster Ozpin." The waitress turns back toward the spooked girl, her eyes wide as if she's seen a ghost. "Ladies first, what would you like to start off with?"

Both adults turn toward the young teenager while she stares toward the waitress. Leaning forward, she places her hands upon the cushions with unblinking eyes. "You…you noticed me that fast?"

The waitress tilts her head toward the side, brown locks cascading down the side of her face. Her long and slim finger tapping against the wood in a pattern with a gold band around her left ring finger. "Of course. I heard your bell chime when you came in, and this is my café. It would be terrible business if I didn't notice any of my customers. I remember everyone who comes through my doors."

"Ah…" Her fingers curl against the soft cushion as she gazes at the friendly café owner. So, she is the owner? She looks quite young and beautiful, in a mature type of way. Ripping her gaze away, she looks down at the simple menu. With a soft nibble of her lip, she mumbles out a response. "Peach tea…Please."

The café owner nods her head with a soft smile before glancing toward Ozpin, "Am I correct in assuming, you would like the usual Ozpin?"

Ozpin politely nods his head, "That would be lovely, thank you, Miyako. By the way, how has Peach been? I haven't seen her in a while since she's been on vacation. I hear the wedding was beautiful. My apologies for being unable to attend. Allow me to express my sincere, best wishes. Congratulations, and may you two prosper in happiness.

Miyako smiles with a nod of her head, "She is doing well. Sadly, she is at home and unpacking from our trip. So, she is unable be here to talk with you personally. Thank you for your kind words. It is a shame you were unable to attend, but we understand how busy you are lately. We did save you a slice of cake, so please look forward to it when Peach returns to the academy during this coming semester."

"My, oh, my. You ladies saved a slice of cake, just for me? You spoil me too much."

Reaching down toward the table, Miyako politely retrieves the menus and sets them neatly in the condiment's basket. "Of course, after all. You are the one who brought her here to my café and introduced us. It is the least we can do for you. Now, let me fetch your orders. It will be just a moment." With her piece said, Miyako turns on her heel and quietly paces behind the bar to begin their orders.

"Well, aren't you the matchmaker."

Ozpin turns toward the ash colored teen to find her with an elbow propped up onto the wooden table with her chin resting within its palm. His head shakes softly, "Heaven's no. All I did was bring professor Peach here for some tea and sweet desserts. I surely, did not personally request Miyako to bring refreshments to the academy on the daily when I saw the two conversing together. Nor did I tell her what kind of sweets Professor Peach enjoys as to surprise her during visits. And I most certainly did not give Miyako two tickets to a romance play at the theatre for a date." Ozpin shakes his head with a smile upon his lips. "My, my, such baseless accusations, I am shocked."

Her lips thin as her honey orbs blank in disbelief at his rambling. "I never said any of that." Her head sways back and forth as she rolls her chin against her palm before letting out a soft, but deep breath. "Alright, so why did you bring me here? Certainly, isn't for my company." Her hands droop down into her lap as she stares into his calculating brown, "So, what do you want?" All she receives in response is a raised open palm, motioning for her to wait. With a huff of annoyance, she turns away and stares toward the wall with a fixation. She hates the waiting game. She will just ignore him till he wants to talk.

She doesn't have to wait long.

A soft clatter of porcelain clicks against the wood softly. Turning her gaze, she finds a white cup of peached tea placed before her, another with a warm brew is placed before Ozpin. Miyako asks if they have any other orders. Both customers respond in a negative before she walks away to give them privacy. Her ash colored bangs cascade around her cheeks as she glances down at her tea. Fresh slices of peach mixed and garnished along the rim.

A deep voice startles her gaze upward.

"Now then, let us begin. I shall start from the beginning." His arms slowly rest against the table, his palms cup his warm beverage, letting the warmth soothe his skin. "As you know, I am Headmaster Ozpin and I first saw you battling some questionable people in the street. Who were those people, and why were you all fighting? That had nothing to do with the attempted robbery of From Dusk till Dawn."

Her fingers interwind together as her hands rest within her lap. Fidgeting side-to-side, she turns her gaze this way and that, debating with her own mind. Should she be honest or lie? Is he being honest about when he first saw her? He could be baiting her when he could have easily eavesdropped upon her conversation in the alley. Perhaps he is being honest and only noticed when their fight spilled into the streets.

Regardless of that, could she lie to him?

This is Headmaster Ozpin, who is a champion of politics and one of the most brilliant minds around. Pressing her tongue into cheek, she highly doubts she could flat out lie to the man. Maybe half-truths could work, but then again, that may be bad. Half-truths make the interrogator draw their own assumptions. Which could make her stand out more or become a higher priority than she is right now.

She can not afford him to draw his own conclusions that would paint a target on her back. Nor can she be fully honest. Politics suck. This is why she prefers to be alone. Reaching up toward her drink, she takes the peach garnish and nibbles onto the tip, savoring the juiciness. With a gulp, she begins her tale, "Well, I was there to have a meeting with a…former associate of mine. They were not expecting me, considering it was a spur of the moment thing. Basically, I was informing them of my withdrawal from…" She rests the juicy peach into her mouth and gives it a soft suckle, adverting her gaze. "questionable practices. I was…am…looking to get into more…" She shrugs her shoulders as she questions her type of wording choice. "favorable…type of business. Let's just say, he was not very forth coming with my decision and became rather…aggressive."

Ozpin hums softly to himself before raising his warm mug. Quietly blowing onto the beverage, he takes a quick sip. No doubt he's filling in the blanks she left and drawing his own conclusions. More than likely, he figured out she was a thief. Its not like she could truly lie about it, that would be stupid. Why else would she have met someone like Torchwick? She can only hope that her attempting to leave the shady business and fighting his goons, paints her in a better light.

Hopefully.

"Next question, what did you mean by and I quote, 'Could I ever be someone as radiant as her.'?"

Urg, he had to ask that question. Of all the things he could have possibly questioned, why that? She curls in slightly as her cheeks tint a slight red hue. This is going to be extremely embarrassing. He is going to end up assuming that she is just some fangirl. She stuffs the remaining peach into her mouth and chews it softly to help with her jitters. "Well…I…look up to her, in a way." His brow raises but remains quiet to let her continue.

"I know most people don't really look up to her. Considering her strict reputation and no non-sense business that I hear about. But…" Wrapping her small fingers around her beverage, she pulls it close to her lap. "I have never known anyone to speak ill of her. I have also heard many stories of when she would help people because it was the right thing to do. But the most important thing for me is…" Looking down into the light brown beverage, she notices her own blurry reflection. "When I was small and…growing up…I would watch some of her instruction videos during my private time." She softly chuckles with a shrug. "They were not anything special or even important…They would just cover basic things, like basic mathematics and language. I never really got to go to a proper academy or anything for schooling. There were many…complications for that. So, I made do with what I could." With half-lidded eyes she shakes her head with an empty smile, "I'm sorry, if that explanation isn't something you were expecting."

Ozpin sets down his mug with a soft clack before interwinding his fingers together upon the table. A soft and fond smile upon his lips as he leans in toward her slightly. "On the contrary. I find that to be a wonderful explanation. Did you know, that she made those videos when she was still a teacher's assistance? That was quite a while back, and she knew that they would not be that very popular. But, she told me a long time ago. That as long as even one person benefits from them. Then it was worth all the effort to create and put them out there. I know that she would be happy to hear, that you watched her videos and admire her."

"Mm." Her cheeks tint a red hue as she curls into herself. Drawing her beverage to her lips as she takes a small sip of the cool beverage. Letting the natural sweetness of the peaches soothe into her body. She has never told anyone about her admiration of Goodwitch. Not even 'he' knew of her pass studies when he was not around. It was the only way she could learn basic academics since all they focused on for her was fighting.

But that is all in the past now.

Where it will stay forever.

"During our fun-filled adventure through the alleys, I noticed something…strange." He does not miss her stiffening as her fingers clutch at the beverage. "I take it you know what I am talking about. Strange is the only way I could describe it. I kept wanting to overlook you or having to remind myself that I was chasing you. It was only thanks to that bell that I was able to fixate on that sound and know where you were. So, tell me, is that your semblance at work?"

She remains still for a moment before she sags with a sigh, setting her beverage back onto the table. A knot forms in her stomach, a hand raising up to tenderly stroke at the silver bell around her neck. Of course, he would notice that, why wouldn't he? Her own personal curse, what she would do to be rid of it. Why the gods gave her such a curse she will never know. But now to find a way to explain it in such a manner that he would understand how it works.

Her fingers rap against the wooden table softly before slowly turning toward Ozpin. Reaching upward, she tilts her hat back straight before meeting his gaze. "Yes…it was my semblance. In short and simple terms…" Her fingers rasp against the table, thinking of the proper wording to easily understand. "It…affects my presence. As you said earlier, it makes you want to look over me if you have yet to notice me. If you have noticed me, then it also makes you want to…forget my presence. It is difficult to explain in proper wording."

Ozpin relaxes back against the cushions as he reaches for his cup once more, taking the mug within his palms. He hums in thought as it hovers near his lips. "Hm, that sounds like a useful semblance and quite powerful. I'm sure with some proper training it would be a valuable asset and-"

"No." Ozpin shifts his gaze upward as he finds the young teenager staring toward him with a fierce look. A noticeable frown upon her lips. Asset? What the hell does he know about it? "This power is not some, asset. Not something to be valued. I hate it and wish I never had it. It is not like normal semblances, it is always active."

Her fingers claw into her thighs as her teeth clench together. He wouldn't understand her plight, the suffering this power brought her. The loneliness she was forced to bear. "This power is a curse. Every day of my life, I am forced to live in solitude. It is difficult to make long lasting friends, or people who don't want to take advantage of my power." Her hand raises up and gently grasps at the bright silver bell tenderly, "Please, do not ever call this power something like an asset or something to be proud of. It is nothing more than a curse that has made my life hell."

With a quiet and calculating stare, Ozpin notices her small stature even more. For being a teenager, she is tiny. He begins to turn her words within his head. 'Hm, uncontrollable, over-looking of her presence, or just out right forgetting that she is there.' His eyes flutter sadly as he takes a small sip of his warm beverage. 'She does not seem to have parents or the like, so the next question would be…when did it activate? But…' Cracking open one eye, he stares her over. She looks so frail, and the topic seems to be weighing a heavy burden upon her.

Perhaps some other time.

"My apologies, miss. I did not know. However, if I may, I know someone who is in a similar position such as you. He also has a semblance that is passive and uncontrollable. Perhaps I will introduce you two one day." All he receives is a polite nod and mumble as she drinks her peached tea quietly. Though, there is one more big question that he must have answered.

"Were you ever a part of the White Fang?"

But of course, he would eventually have to ask that question. It was only a matter of time before the question was asked. After all, he saw what she hid beneath her top-hat. This conversation is really making her want to barf. Answering all the questions about her past, remind her of all the bad memories that dwell within. But she must say, this is one of the most comfortable interrogations that she has ever been a part of.

A soft nod confirms his suspicions. "A long time ago, I was a part of the…Fang." Ozpin's eyes narrow slightly, she didn't say White Fang. "It did not work out, so I left…it was on bad terms. There's no chance of me going back…if that's what you are wondering." She stares into her cool liquid, another person staring back in reflection. A black mask with red claws slashed across the eyes. The ice flutters down as the liquid is disturbed and shatters the reflection.

The White Fang was once a peaceful group of protestors that wanted equal rights for the Faunus people. But over the years, the abuse, racism, and cruelty, morphed them into something more. They lost their original purpose of wanting equal rights and living together with all people of Remnant in harmony and understanding, but they became terrorists. Murdering, stealing, causing pain onto others simply for being different, that's not who she is anymore. Yes, it hurts, being different and looked down on for it. But that's not what she wants to do anymore. Fear breaches hate and it will only make the situation worse. When will they cross the point of no return?

If there's one thing she will say though. She would have rather been a part of the White Fang.

But now, all she wants to do is leave a mark upon this world. Something for the people to remember her by. How many people even know she exists? And out of those, how many would say good things about what she has done with her life? None. It hurts. To know that she will be forgotten and buried in the sands of time, with no one ever knowing who or how she lived. That is why she wants to try basking in the light, even if it burns someone like her.

She just wants to be remembered.

Ozpin hums quietly to himself as he flags down Miyako. She approaches quietly with a soft smile, she can easily read the atmosphere between the two. But she chooses to remain silent, her eyes glance toward the small teenager. Flickering her gaze back to Ozpin, he quietly orders a box of a dozen chocolate chip cookies before paying for their drinks. Miyako nods quietly before she glances toward the ash colored girl once more, and then turns to leave the table.

Straightening his posture, he stares at the young girl with a calculating gaze. One hand reaches up and removes his spectacles from his eyes, quietly setting them upon the table. Interweaving his fingers upon the table, he softly clears his throat. She is a very interesting character he must say. When he has cornered and interrogated most people, they would either lie about everything, or attempt to flee.

Yet, she has not.

In fact, she didn't attempt to truly lie or attempt to flee. Sure, she may not succeed. But when has that ever stopped anyone from attempting? Especially the young, they think they are invincible. But she nether out-right lied to him, or at least he believes. Other wise that is a damn good poker face and she truly knows how to manipulate her own emotions, but he highly doubts it. Yes, she intrigues him, and things that intrigue him always make things much more interesting. So, that leaves him with only one more question for the young miss.

"Then I just have one more question for you, young miss." She softly rotates her face toward Ozpin within her palm, a faint hum from her throat. He pauses for but a moment as the question flows out of his lips comfortably,

"Would you be willing to join my academy?"

Fairy remains frozen in place for a moment, the question repeating itself within her head. Surely, surely, she heard him wrong. Why would he even ask such a thing? To her? Quickly shaking her head as she rapidly blinks her eyes into focus, she sets her drink back upon the table. "I'm sorry, but I think I misheard you. Can you repeat the question?"

"Hm?" His brown eyes twinkle in amusement, a slight grin forms upon his lips. "Oh no, you heard me quite correctly, but allow me to re-iterate. Would you be willing to join my academy? I would love to have someone like you within my walls. I think you would do well to become a huntress."

Snapping back against the cushion, her bell chimes loudly with the widening of her eyes. Her mouth slightly agape with the repeat of the statement within her mind. 'Me? Become a huntress? But…is something like that even possible for someone like me?' He must be lying to her. It must be a trap; what kind of headmaster would just invite someone like her into their academy? "You're lying. Why would you even joke about something like that? Is it just a trap to lure me in before you use me as well, just like the others? What kind of headmaster just invites a random person to their academy after they witness them fighting thugs and then attempting to run? Not only that, but even tried to fight the headmaster himself. That's not something a huntress would do, nor something a headmaster would want."

"On the contrary, I am not most headmasters. Nor do I joke about matters of this magnitude." Ozpin's body slackens slightly as his eyes close with a soft sigh. A moment of silence passes as he chooses his words careful before fluttering them open. "I understand, you have had a troubled past. But the you of the past and the you here before me, are two different people. I am not asking the you of the past, but I am asking you of the present. I only know the person before me, even if only for but a moment. From what I have gathered thus far, the teenager before me, wishes to grow and become someone that people would be able to depend on. Someone that others may look up to. Am I wrong?"

Ah, why did he have to say it like that? Now she won't be able to help herself. She can already feel the tightening of her chest; her vision begins to blur into a wave. Her soft and quivering lip flutters as tears pool into her eyes. A soft sniffle from her nose with a down cast gaze to her lap. Of course, he would nail her goal on the bullseye. Is she truly that easy to read? Her life goals are not something spectacular, nor are they anything worthwhile. All she wants is for people to be able to depend on her. To look her way in their time of need without disgust or underhanded means. Someone that people may want to aspire to be.

Not just a lowly thief.

A murderer.

"How do I know I can trust you?"

"You don't."

Turning her gaze up toward him, she is caught within his brown gaze. Silent tears cascade down her cheeks as her lips thin into a neutral line. "There is nothing at this present time, that I can say or do to fully earn your trust. All I can do, is offer you this choice. This chance with my sincerest honesty and hopes for you to accept. But whether you choose to accept or not, is entirely up to you. I can not force, nor persuade you. In the end, it all comes down whether you want to grab hold of this opportunity and trust in me." Ozpin smiles as he raises his mug and takes a long sip. "And do not worry should you refuse. You are free to go, regardless if you choose to accept or decline.

The choice is yours."

Her teeth clench, the balls of her fists plopping into her lap. The choice is hers to make. Accept his offer or deny? Either way, she is free to go. But what awaits her? If she was to deny, she will go back to her life of living on the streets, stealing for food and supplies. Always looking over her shoulder and doing underhanded jobs for just a few Lien. But now she will even have Torchwick and whoever he is working with gunning for her life as well. How long would she be able to last? How long till she goes mad from paranoia and goes down the dark abyss once more?

There would be no escape next time.

Should she accept, there's no telling what is in store for her. It is all unknown. It could be a trap, or it could be the genuine offer. If it is a trap, then her life ends there. But at least she won't suffer anymore. But if its genuine, then what? She would be unable to steal anymore, so what would she do for Lien? She would have to work and study to become a huntress. That would be a lot of stress piled up. Not only that, but she does not do well in public nor in groups. It is an academy, she would be forced to be in public settings and even socialize.

But is that so bad?

She has been alone for so long. The phobia of her power causing isolation. Perhaps, being thrown into a setting that forces her to intermingle…would not be so bad? Yes, it would hurt. Yes, she would be awkward. And yes, people may even hurt her, but what if she finds that one person. That one person that accepts her and becomes her friend? Would that, be worth all the risk and trouble?

Yes, yes it would.

Raising her sleeveless arm, she wipes away at her tears before turning her gaze toward Ozpin. Her honey eyes glazed over with a flame of courage, folding her hands within her lap and circles her thumbs together. "I accept your offer. I-I want to become a huntress. I want to live a life with no regrets. Even if this is a trap, I will take that chance. Simply, because I am tired. I am tired of being forced to live on this dark path and feeling empty." Leaning forward, her bell chimes loudly, her eyes piercing into Ozpin's. Even if it's a false path of hope. "I will take this chance, and trust in you. Please, don't betray this trust."

She would rather hope, than live a moment longer alone.

Ozpin smiles fondly, hunching over slightly in a small bow. "I will take this trust and cherish it with my whole being. You have nothing to fear. I will not betray you. This I swear to you as Headmaster Ozpin of Beacon Academy. The only thing I ask in return, is for you to do your best. To give this path your all, so that one day. I may be able to regale stories of you to the younger generations."

With a soft sniffle, she nods her head politely as a small smile creeps upon her soft and pink lips. "Yes, sir. I will do my best, and I won't let you down. I promise." And she wouldn't. Even if she is to struggle and squirm. If it proves to be the genuine offer, she will throw her whole being into this endeavor.

A soft series of heel clicks turn their gaze to the side as they find Miyako with a small box of chocolate chip cookies. Shifting her eyes between the two, a soft smile lights up her features. "I see everything went well. Here are the cookies you ordered, Ozpin." As she hands him the box, he politely asks to borrow her note pad and a pen. Miyako easily hands it over toward him before turning to the young girl. "You know, you are much cuter when you smile. I was worried when I saw you frowning. I thought I was going to have to teach this man a lesson for making such a lady frown."

A soft chuckle escapes from Ozpin as he continues to write on the notepad, neatly and concisely. The young girl turns toward Miyako with a soft smile before nodding her head politely. "Thank you, and I also wanted to thank you for the enjoyable experience here. Would it be alright if I was to come by every so often?" Now that she got a good look at her, she was tall.

Miyako huffs as she places a hand upon her hip. Her heels shifting along the wooden floor with a polite smile. "Of course, you are always welcome here. So long as you are a paying customer and not expecting everything for free. Not like some other freeloader that I won't mention."

"My goodness, I swear. I forget my wallet one time, and they never let me live it down. So cruel. What ever have I done to deserve such disservice?"

Miyako snorts in amusement as she tilts her head toward Ozpin, "Well, do you know how any times Peach comes back home and gripes about you the whole time? Sometimes its hard to get a word in till either she calms down or I kiss her. Which I don't really mind the latter now that I think about it."

The young teen of the group softly giggles as she reaches into her drink and takes a fresh peach that's soaked in tea and gobbles it up. Fairy soon finds the two adults staring toward her with calming gazes before Ozpin slides a note across the table. She takes it into her gloved hand and glances over it finding a set of instructions. "What's this?"

Ozpin reaches for his spectacles and quietly places them back onto his nose. Miyako steps aside quietly for Ozpin to squirm is way out of the booth. "That, my dear, are the instructions for when and where you need to appear for the bullhead that will bring you to the academy. Do not worry about any paperwork. I will personally take care of it myself." His back pops lightly before grasping hold of the box with chocolate chip cookies. "Now then, it is time for me to take my leave, but before I go. I have been quite rude, and I never asked for your name. Might I ask for your name, Miss?"

Fairy startles toward Ozpin, quickly chewing the juicy goodness of the tea-soaked peach. Delicious. She shuffles her way out of the booth and pats down her clothing. With a hand reaching up, she tilts her top hat back on straight. A soothing chime of her bell rings out a quiet melody. Fairy neatly clasps her small hands together over her belly, and shifts focus between Miyako and Ozpin with a smile.

"Ashe Souris, pleased to meet you."