A pen loudly snaps in half.
Glynda tosses the broken pen into the waste bin, then furiously paces back and forth across her office floor.
"My Garden was attacked?! Of all the days to suddenly be swamped by paperwork!"
Her glasses glint dangerously and her eyes turn murderous.
"These reported injuries would have been the tip of the iceberg if I was there."
She pauses her pacing and takes a deep breath with her eyes closed.
"Phew..."
She looks down at the report in her hand and flicks through the pages with her slender fingers.
"A local gang going by the Vipers were stopped in their tracks by an anonymous trio. Local authorities report that casualties and damage were kept to a minimum. Hmm..."
Glynda places the report onto her desk before taking out her Scroll and typing in her credentials. Portraits of Cinder, Mercury, and Emerald pop up on her screen along with some text.
"Mary Beth, Uranus Quicksilver, and Jade. Haven students? Taking a vacation... at this time of the year? Ah... I see. The Vytal Festival is nearing, so I suppose this makes sense, though still rather unusual."
She presses the play button, and footage of Cinder dispatching the gang members replays in slow motion.
"How skilled... Like the report says, damage was kept to a minimum, and the criminals were dealt with quickly and efficiently. This one... Mary Beth. She deflected the bullets to either the ground or the ceiling, away from the civilians. I'm sure this was no mere coincidence either. Typical Huntsman students are rather reckless and display little regard for their surroundings."
Glynda pinches her brows, feeling an ensuing headache from remembering the countless times she's had to repair damages to school grounds caused by the students. After releasing a sigh, she turns her attention back to the report.
"The Viper's headquarters was raided and taken over by the police force the same night. Evidence of illegal gambling, drugs, and even human trafficking..."
She frowns, feeling disgusted.
"These scum are more animal than humans."
With a press of a button, the case is escalated to a higher priority, as to ensure these gang members get punished as soon as possible.
"I could use a nice cup of tea right about now..."
*** Argus ***
'I hardly know anything about Cinder Fall and the rest of our enemies. All I know is that she is the one primarily responsible for the attack on Beacon, Vale, and Amity Colosseum. Other than her ability to manipulate heat and the Fall Maiden powers, there's little else I know about her. I can't handle this by myself... So should I approach Professor Ozpin and Goodwitch with this information? Would they even believe what I have to say? But no matter what, I have to do something or nothing will change...'
Pyrrha clenches her fork tightly as she ruminates about her current situation.
"Pyrrha? Are you feeling alright?"
"Huh? Oh! Y-Yeah, I feel fine. Great, even!"
Pyrrha's mother gives her a doubtful look.
"You've had that troubled look on your face since the Tournament's conclusion. Is it because of the results? I'll admit that the circumstances were... odd, but I hope that you are not kicking yourself over it."
Her father nods in agreement.
"Everyone makes mistakes, and no one is perfect. I would much rather you make mistakes during training or competition, than in the actual battlefield. You will learn and grow far better that way. Besides, we are still extremely proud of you. Who else, other than us, can brag about their daughter who is a two time regional champion?"
Pyrrha feels some of her anxiety melt away at the sight of her parents' care and concern.
"Thank you," she smiles. "It's not just the Tournament, but some other things as well. There's just been... a lot going on lately."
Her mother gently places a hand over Pyrrha's.
"If or when you are willing to share your thoughts and troubles, we'll be here ready to listen, no matter what."
"Hmm... I'd rather know right now if something is troubling you so much," her father frowns.
"Dear." her mother softly smiles. "Our little girl has grown up and is capable of making her own decisions. We should trust that we did a good job in raising her and wait patiently. You've always been an overly doting father."
"..."
"Ah! Right," she claps her hands. "Pyrrha, dear. Are you sure about your choice to attend Beacon? Everyone here in Argus will surely be sad to see you go so far away."
"Can't you reconsider Haven?" Pyrrha's father says in a low voice. "... For me?"
Her mother playfully slaps his shoulder.
"Stop trying to sway her with your puppy eyes, dear. You only want her in Haven due to its closer proximity, and nothing to do with the differing curriculums."
He lightly frowns and crosses his arms.
Pyrrha can not help but giggle.
"I'm sorry father," she says apologetically. "But I've made up my mind about Beacon. I believe that it is an opportunity for me to broaden my horizons."
Her father releases a tired sigh and proudly smiles up at her.
"You've really grown up, haven't you?"
"Mmm... It feels like it was only just yesterday that she was our little baby nestled in our arms," her mother lovingly reminisces.
Pyrrha's heart clenches, imagining how devastated her parents must have been when they received news of her death. Her hands tightly clench and she swallows the lump in her throat.
'I can't let that happen this time... At the very least, for their sakes.'
"M-Mother... F-Father... May I be excused? I'm suddenly feeling rather tired."
She stands up from her seat and exits the dining room.
The two parents' expressions transform into ones of intense concern as Pyrrha heads towards her room.
"Do you think it's the right decision to not press her for answers?" Pyrrha's father says darkly. "Whatever is stressing her is not as simple as the Tournament... I've seen those eyes many times in the past..."
He tightly grips the arms of his chair.
"I know..."
His wife leans her head against his shoulder with an equally worried expression.
"But she chose the path of a Huntress. You, of all people, know that the title of Huntsman is not one to be taken lightly. Pyrrha understands this as well, so unless she comes directly to us for help, all we can do is silently support her from the back, ready to catch her at any moment should it become too much for her to handle."
She places a hand on the stump that used to be her husband's left leg.
"Haaaah," he sighs. "Why couldn't she choose any other path? Something like a doctor, scientist, or musician would have been perfect..."
"You only have yourself to blame, dear. Aside from appearances, she takes more after you than me. Don't you remember how enamored she was with your past adventures as a Huntsman? To make matters worst, you went as far as showing her your old weapons, Milo and Akouo."
"... And she insists to this day on using them. Why did I do that? My biggest regret.
"And your biggest pride."
"True," he sadly smiles. "Honey... Are you not worried?"
She remains silent, but he can clearly feel her body trembling against his.
"Sorry," he apologizes. "That was a stupid question."
Upstairs in her room, Pyrrha gazes out of her window with tired, yet resolute eyes.
"What are you planning right now? I swear that I will stop you this time, Cinder."
*** At that same moment ***
"Mmm, this is bliss..."
Cinder cups her cheek with a palm as she sighs out in content. She hums in delight as she enjoys her roasted green tea. Life is good right now. Excellent even, all things considered.
Tea house? Check.
Kept the tea house safe from those ruffians? Double check.
Keep Salem unsuspecting? Triple check!
"Miss, your companions are not accompanying you today?"
Garden's elder/owner inquires.
"Hmm? They're out exploring the city for themselves."
"Ah, sightseeing? You're not joining them?"
Cinder gives him a relaxed smile.
"I've been to Vale in the past. Besides, I'd rather be here than anywhere else."
"Well, that is quite the complement," the elder heartfully chuckles.
Cinder gestures at the empty shop.
"And I truly do appreciate you opening the shop for me, despite it being closed for renovation and repair."
"What are you saying? That is only right, given what you did for us. If I don't repay good fortune with gratitude, I fear that I will be struck down by karma," he jokes. "Additionally, the funds for the repairs were donated by another individual."
"Oh?" Cinder curiously tilts her head. "That is rather generous."
"Indeed," he nods. "She is one of our most treasured patrons, as well as one of our oldest customers. It may surprise you, but she is the main reason for why there is such large traffic and business coming through this humble shop. Hmm, I believe that she was planning on coming in today and should be here any moment now."
A light knock at the front entrance.
Cinder watches with interest as the elder hastily goes to the door and lets his guest in. Her eyes widen slightly when she sees the light blonde hair, the spectacles, and the unique riding crop hanging from the guest's hip.
"... Glynda Goodwitch," Cinder mutters to herself.
"Good afternoon elder," Glynda greets with a small smile. "Is your injury doing better? And how is everything going with the repairs?"
"Miss Goodwitch," the elder warmly greets. "As you can see, I am going just fine. Thank you for asking. The repairs are going very smoothly, and the renovations are being done according to her recommendations. I'm very impressed by the work of the contractors you went through the trouble of sourcing for us. Quite frankly, I'm not sure how I can ever repay your generosity."
Glynda lightly laughs, "The only thing I ask for in return is enjoying the same wonderful tea you've always been serving. I am still feeling rather sorry that I was not there at the time of the incident, otherwise, this mess never would have occurred in the first place. Why in the world didn't you inform me that such harassment was taking place?"
"Ah... How can I trouble one of my guests with our troubles," the elder shakes his head. "That would have been far too presumptuous of me."
"As much as that frustrates me, I suppose I can not argue with that," Glynda sighs, then glances towards Cinder with a raised eyebrow. "Isn't this..."
'Mary Beth? She's one of the three that took care of the gang members.'
"Oh! It's big sister Goodwitch! How have you been?"
The owner's granddaughter excitedly comes out of the kitchen with a tray filled with small desserts.
"To be honest, rather busy," Glynda huffs. "And what about you? Have you been making sure your grandfather doesn't push himself? Especially with that head injury of his..."
The young waitress grins widely.
"Of course. As stubborn as he is, I've managed to reduce the hours he works by half!"
"The young ones sure are tough, aren't they?" The elder chuckles.
"Right, big sis, have you met Miss Mary yet? Like you, she's a benefactor to Garden. You should have seen her when she beat those brutes- Wait... That was supposed to be a secret, right?"
"Only for the police reports," Cinder waves a hand. "I simply didn't want to deal with unnecessary publicity. With Miss Goodwitch here, it doesn't really matter as it was only a matter of time before Beacon Academy received the details of the incident."
"Mary Beth of Haven Academy," Glynda nods. "You're rather sharp."
Cinder smiles and returns a nod.
"Mary Beth Ella Gertrude is my full name. You may call me Mary or Ella. It is a pleasure to meet you, Glynda Goodwitch of Beacon Academy."
Glynda carefully looks over Cinder, observing her demeanor and the way she carries herself.
'If I didn't know any better, I'd swear that she is a seasoned Huntress. There is a clear air of maturity and sharpness about her that can only be found by those who have lived through battle. Is she really just a first year student in Haven? Lionheart has really struck gold this time around. She is sure to give us trouble during the Vytal Tournament later this year. What a shame... If only she was attending Beacon instead. Then we'd have both her and Pyrrha Nikos, all but ensuring our claim to the Vytal Cup.'
"If you don't mind, would you care to join me at my table for tea?" Cinder asks.
"If you wouldn't mind having me, I'd love to," Glynda responds as she takes a seat across from the ashen haired beauty.
"I'll bring out another set of cups for you two," the waitress cheerfully says.
"And I will leave you two lovely ladies to yourselves," the owner nods.
When the waitress returns with new cups, Cinder takes the initiative to pour a cup for Glynda, as she is the guest at her table. In return, Glynda pours for Cinder.
Glynda brings her cup up to her nose with a pleasant smile.
"Roasted green tea. This is one of my favorites. The mild, yet pronounced aroma and flavor is fitting for any setting. Excellent choice."
Cinder peacefully closes her eyes.
"Yes. This tea is perfect for everyone, regardless of their experience with tea, including children. The roasting process lowers the amount of caffeine and the astringent characteristics some may find too strong. It is a straightforward, humble tea often made with the final harvest of the season. To me, it is a rather poetic tea and I love it."
This was also her tea of choice to serve whenever her children and grandchildren visited.
"You are quite knowledgeable," Glynda compliments. "Even for one hailing from the tea capital of Mistral, that is quite impressive."
"Knowledge is a natural byproduct of passion," Cinder replies with a smile. "Wouldn't you agree, GW?"
Glynda's mouth slightly opens in surprise, then she softly laughs into her hand.
"Truly impressive. But I'm curious... How did you reach that conclusion?"
Cinder takes a moment to think.
"I hope you will not take offense to this, but your reviews aligns rather perfectly with what I've heard in the rumors."
Glynda's eyes narrow slightly.
"Oh? And what are these rumors you've heard, and where did you hear such things?"
"Hmm, I didn't hear much, aside from that Glynda Goodwitch is notoriously blunt, cold, harsh, and highly efficient at her job. However, her peers find her rather terrifying and do their best not to offend her."
"My peers?" She dangerously smiles.
Cinder places a finger against her chin.
"I recall a certain portly man loudly saying these things in a bar I happened to pass by a few nights ago. Something about the ice queen of his generation," she muses.
"... Hoh?"
Glynda's smile darkens.
"It would appear that I will be having a long talk with him when I return..."
'I'm going to tear you a new one, Peter. Ever since our student years, you've never been able to keep your stupid mouth shut!'
Cinder drinks from her cup in order to hide her amused smile. Though to be fair, Port does tend to speak a little too much. She'd embellished it a bit, but in her past life, there were actually trickles of information that made it to her ear, and all of them were traced back to Port loudly speaking in public settings. Those pieces of information were all inconsequential, but she'd rather nip this in the bud considering the opportunity to do so has presented itself.
"So, Mary," Glynda starts. "Am I right to assume that you're here in Vale for sightseeing prior to the Festival?"
"There is that," Cinder hum. "But that applies more for my teammates than myself, I suppose. This is their first time here in Vale, while I've visited in the past."
"And your headmaster has no problem with this arrangement?"
"My team's circumstances are rather unique," Cinder calmly explains. "Though we are technically first year students, our level of experience is rather far ahead compared to the others. Headmaster Lionheart was gracious to accommodate this request of ours so long as we studied ahead and passed a certain point of the curriculum."
Glynda raises an eyebrow.
"No matter which Academy one attends, though the curriculums may vary, the standards are strictly regulated. Doing what you've just described is by no means easy. In fact, it is very abnormal."
"That is why I stated our circumstances are unique," Cinder lightly laughs. "Having said that, getting ahead and passing those exams were most definitely not easy. There were many sleepless nights. There is no such thing as free lunch, after all. If you want something, you'll have to work equally as hard to earn it."
Glynda nods in appreciation.
"True."
"I suppose things don't get much easier even when you're a professor in such an accomplished Academy such as Beacon?" Cinder asks.
The blonde professor rolls her eyes.
"Please do not get me started. It is a rarity to get through a day without having to deal with at least one mess caused by some troublemaking students. Really... Just what is it with Huntsmen students and their tendency for chaos. Then, there is the paperwork that comes along with every incident..."
"Ah... Paperwork. An enemy of mankind."
"Indeed," Glynda heavily sighs. "I will gladly drink to that."
*** Later that night ***
My brief chat with Glynda Goodwitch was pleasant. We bonded over our experiences with our respective troublemakers. For her, the students, while for myself... recently, Mercury has been a bit of a rascal. As I expected based what I read of her reviews, the two of us have very similar tastes in tea. If I could spend time with her over tea and snacks again in the future, I would not mind that.
Hmm.
I suppose an additional benefit to all of this would be that our budding friendship may come in handy if anything regarding my situation goes south. At the very least, I'll have someone who can express doubt for me. Is this considered to be manipulative and underhanded?
Okay, I admit that this is a little bit manipulative, but hear me out. I genuinely do enjoy her company. Just think of this as a bonus of sorts. What did those youngsters call this kind of relationship back on Earth? Friends with benefits? Mmm... Yes. That sounds about right.
In the meantime, I stroll up to a large building that is blasting obnoxiously music inside. The smell of alcohol, sweat, and vomit lingers in the air, undoubtedly coming from the young adults stumbling in and out of the club. Upon releasing a sigh, I walk through the entrance.
*** Junior's Club ***
Cinder flits through the crowded dance floor with no resistance, before sitting down at the bar next to a wall. When she takes her seat, the bartender, who is currently preoccupied with cleaning glassware, asks gruffly.
"What can I get yah?"
"I'm not here for alcohol."
"Then what're you here for?" He roughly asks without looking up.
"Why don't you take a good look at my face first," Cinder playfully smiles.
When the bartender finally looks up, he nearly drops the cup in his hands.
"You're..." He mutters.
"Pleased to meet you, head of the Xiong Group," Cinder nods. "Or should I call you Junior instead?"
"Junior's fine," he grunts. "So what's your business here?"
Cinder folds her hands together.
"I'll be frank. I need your help getting into contact with one of your colleagues. A certain matchstick."
Junior loudly snorts, "Matchstick... Technically speaking, I could do that for you. But the real question is, why should I?"
Cinder flirtatiously smiles, "I helped get rid of the Vipers for you. Doesn't that warrant some kind of reward?"
"So that was you?" Junior raises an eyebrow. "Hmph... Though that was convenient for us, we would have wiped them out eventually. All you did was expedite an inevitable conclusion."
"You won't consider my request?" Cinder pouts.
"If it was anything else, maybe."
At this moment, a teenage girl with bright golden hair flowing down to her hips strolls across the clubroom and takes a seat beside Cinder.
"Am I interrupting something? You're Junior, right?" Yang cheerfully asks.
'Yang Xiao Long?' Cinder raises an eyebrow. 'Ah... Right, I remember Roman mentioning a brawl that took place in Junior's club on a certain night. That was today?'
"Aren't you a little young to be in this club?"
"Yeah? Then what about her?" Yang points a thumb at Cinder. "Besides, aren't you a little old to be called Junior?"
"Appearances can be quite deceiving," Cinder lightly smiles. "Would you believe me if I said that I am in my 80s?"
At that, both Junior and Yang look at Cinder like she's crazy.
"Right..." Yang snorts. "So anyways, Junior. Word on the street is that you know everything."
"So you are aware of who I am," Junior grunts. "Before anything, you got a name for me?"
"Nope. My name's irrelevant," Yang nonchalantly waves her hand. "Look, I just need you to tell me where I can find this person. In fact, any piece of information on her will do."
She puts her Scroll up to Junior's face.
"... Don't know her," he bluntly replies as he continues to clean glassware.
"Oh come on, Junior!" Yang playfully laughs. "You and I both know that's not true."
Junior glances up with a lowered voice.
"Listen very carefully, blondie. There are a very few number of people I'm unwilling to associate myself with in any way. I strongly suggest you turn around and leave."
"Hmm..." Yang thoughtfully hums. "Thanks for the warning. But nah..."
She reaches over the counter and drags Junior over the bar counter by the collar. From her seat, Cinder silently watches the show with amused eyes.
The blaringly loud club music grinds to a halt, and the civilians in the vicinity quickly begin to file out of the building, sensing the trouble that is brewing.
"What the hell is wrong with you?!" Junior growls. "Let go, unless you don't want to leave this place alive."
"Sure thing," Yang shrugs with a grin. "You asked for it."
Without further warning, she throws Junior over her shoulders and straight into the floor. Then, she leaps into the air as her gauntlets engage. She lands with her fist slamming into the dance floor, sending a rippling shockwave through the air, knocking the henchmen around her through the air.
'She always was a bit of a hothead, but this takes it to another level,' Cinder thinks to herself. 'She's even worse than she was during the Vytal Tournament.'
She glances down at Junior, who is being helped up by several of his men.
"Are you doing alright? I have a proposal that you may be interested in."
"Huh? You're still here?" Junior groans with a hand on his head.
"I deal with her," Cinder lazily points a finger towards Yang, who is rampaging through Junior's men. "And in return, you arrange my meeting with Roman. What say you to that?"
"Hah! We can handle a single girl," he scoffs.
"I would not be so sure about that," Cinder chuckles. "She is a student set to attend Beacon next semester. Neither you nor any of your employees are able to handle her. Do not be a stubborn bull and accept the deal."
"Tch!" Junior clicks his tongue. "Melanie! Militia!"
A pair of black haired twins stroll into view, each displaying annoyed expressions.
"Who is that blonde bimbo?" Melanie frowns.
"Let's just get this over with," Militia scowls.
Cinder shakes her head at the twins as they join the fray.
"My offer will be live for 2 minutes. You have until then to decide."
Junior narrows his eyes and reaches under the bar counter, retrieving an oversized bludgeon before he rushes in to join the fight.
In the meantime, Yang is facing off against the twins. In order to avoid getting double teamed, she quickly focuses on one in order to knock her back, then deals with the other. Once the first one she'd knocked away returns, Yang either throws or fiercely punches the other away, effectively staggering them into single combat situations. With her higher level of skill, strength, and speed, Yang finds a large opening and kicks Militia in the gut, sending her flying through the air, directly towards the bar where Cinder is still sitting.
Cinder hops off her stool and intercepts Militia. She lightly tips Militia in midair with a foot, and her hands move at blurring speeds, manipulating her momentum and center of gravity before finally tossing her onto an empty bar stool. To anyone who was watching, it looked like Cinder was juggling a human effortlessly through the air. Cinder claps her hands together to dust them off.
"Are you alright?" She asks Militia.
"Uugh..." She groans. "I feel sick. What... just happened?"
Junior's weapon loudly snaps in half when Yang furiously punches through it.
"You pulled out my hair!" She snarls.
She dashes forward and sucker punches Junior in the face.
Like she did with Militia, she intercepts Junior as well, but this time, she merely kicks him several times to send him spinning through the air before he lands by her feet.
"There is still 30 seconds left," she casually reminds him.
"Ooooooh..." Junior groans as his vision spins. "O-Okay fine! Just... Just get rid of her before she trashes this entire place."
"Pleasure doing business with you," Cinder smiles. "And I did warn you."
"I think I'm going to throw up," Junior mutters before he collapses back onto the floor.
Yang confidently faces off against Cinder with her hands placed against her hips.
"You looking for some action too?" She grins. "You seem kind of nice, so I'd rather not hurt you if I don't have to."
"Mmm," Cinder nods. "Thank you for your considerate thoughts. Confidence is good, but just how much of that is stemming from ignorance, I wonder?"
Yang's eyebrow twitches and she raises her fists.
"Okay. Don't say I didn't warn you."
Cinder palms her right fist with her left hand and holds them up at her chest level to greet her opponent.
"Please instruct me well."
Yang launches herself forward with the help of Ember Celica.
'Jumping right in without fear. Is that bravery or recklessness?'
*** Elsewhere ***
"You know that you don't have to follow me around, right?"
"But I should."
"... Why?"
Emerald looks at Mercury like he's stating the obvious.
"You'll end up causing some kind of trouble if you go off on your own."
"You don't know that," Mercury says while giving her an innocent look.
"It's almost like you're asking to be 'punished' by Cinder."
Mercury shrugs.
Emerald gives him a suspicious look.
"Are... you doing this on purpose?"
"Alright look," Mercury sighs. "You can't deny that Cinder's been acting like a different person lately. Her temper is pretty much nonexistent. She's way more approachable and her mannerisms are clearly different. At this point, I have a pretty good grasp on Cinder's newfound temperament. She knows as well that all of this is in jest. Even when annoyed, she's reserved. You know what I mean right? Remember the other night?"
Emerald shudders.
"Tonight, I want both of you to come at me with the intent to kill. Otherwise, there's no point to this exercise."
"We couldn't even touch her once!" Mercury exclaims. "Even with your Semblance it didn't matter. Seriously, she's a freaking monster. We may as well have been fighting a wall..."
"Well, let's not overthink it too much, Uranus," Emerald smirks.
"I had no choice in that codename! Cinder just gave those names out to the police without my consultation!"
"Whatever you say, Uranus."
"Damn it!"
*** Back at Junior's Club ***
Cinder assumes a stance with her palms raised and open. Her wrist quickly flicks away Yang's incoming fist, and the same hand smacks the underside of her chin. Then, Cinder quickly sweeps her foot out, knocking Yang off balance, then pushes her back with a palm strike.
Yang tumbles backwards several times across the floor before she manages to launch herself off the ground with a shotgun shell, then lands on her feet. She takes several deep breaths as she warily gauges her opponent. All signs of playfulness in her eyes are now gone.
'I barely saw her move, and my body couldn't react at all. What did she do?'
"What was that?" Yang slowly asks.
"Come. Try again," Cinder instructs.
Yang tightly clenches her fists and jumps forward to engage. This time, however, she takes a more controlled approach, swerving left and right while keeping her footwork and balance in mind. She throws out several quick jabs.
With tranquil eyes, Cinder's arms blur into motion, deflecting each and every one of Yang's attacks. Whether she uses feints or kicks, Cinder reacts accordingly without missing a beat. Yang finds herself unable to press her attack past a certain point around Cinder.
'What is this? It's like I'm fighting an impenetrable wall! Then what about this?'
Yang hops back and punches the air, firing a barrage of shotgun slugs.
Maintaining her utterly calm expression, Cinder kicks up the broken half of Junior's weapon and bats away the incoming projectiles like one would swat away flies.
After firing off the last of her rounds, Yang stares intently as the dust settles. Her mouth drops when she sees Cinder standing at the same location, with that unchanging smile, without a single speck of damage marring her.
"What the hell... How?"
Cinder tosses the weapon aside and slowly traces the air around her with her palms.
"This is my domain. Can you see it?"
Yang squints her eyes, then rubs them with a hand, thinking that she might hallucinating. She swears that there is a transparent bubble surrounding Cinder, exactly at the areas her palms are tracing.
"... That's a nifty Semblance."
"Semblance?" Cinder lightly laughs. "While it is mildly impressive that you can visualize my space, your understanding is still lacking."
Seikūken. A martial art technique from Earth. It is a "barrier" that extends as far as the user's reach, whether it be through one's limbs or a weapon. The underlying concept behind Seikūken is making the surrounding space one's own, and greatly relies on the confidence of the user.
"I don't have time for this," Yang growls.
She twists her arms, expelling the spent shells from her gauntlets to reload them with fresh belts. However, she barely manages to reload them because Cinder suddenly sprints forward and appears before her.
'Crap!'
"Reloading while you're within reach of your opponent is rather arrogant," Cinder critiques before sharply flicking Yang on her forehead.
"Ow! Damn it!" Yang flinches before punching out.
Cinder tilts her head just enough to dodge the blow, then steps in between Yang's feet. She grabs Yang's outstretched arm and throws her over her shoulders by taking advantage of the momentum generated by her attack.
"If we only consider your speed and power, you certainly do have the qualifications of being a Huntress student," Cinder sighs. "But everything else... There is much to be desired. Your attacks are too straightforward, and your feints are easy to read. Then, there's your biggest flaw. Your temper."
"Don't act like you know me," Yang spits as she stands up with burning red eyes.
"Haaah..." Cinder sighs as she picks up Yang's Scroll from the ground.
"So you're searching for this person. Is this not Raven Branwen?"
Yang's eyes widen and her eyes burn brighter.
"Give that back!"
"What did I just say about your temper? Think. Use your head before jumping into battle."
Yang lunges out with a hand to grab her Scroll. Unsurprisingly, Cinder nimbly steps to the side at the last second, then trips Yang with her foot and a light shove.
"Aaaaaah!" Yang yells in frustration, then slams her fists together. Her hair erupts into flames, signifying that her Semblance is now in full effect, fueled by her anger.
Cinder shakes her head.
"Anger is a powerful tool. It is capable of bringing out great power. But unrestrained, it is nothing but a burden," she sighs as she pockets Yang's Scroll. "You're not going to last long if you can't control yourself."
"Stop acting like you know me! You don't know anything about me," Yang growls.
She pulls her fist back and puts all of her remaining power into it.
Cinder sighs for the 50th time.
'As they say, experience is the best teacher. More so for some over others.'
She assumes a stance, evenly distributing her weight. Her feet are firmly planted and her knees are slightly bent. Cinder's core tightens as she sharply breathes in. Her right hand tightens into a fist by her side, and when Yang punches out, she strikes out at the same time.
Yang's attack is akin to an uncontrolled roaring flame. A large volume of uncontrolled power, akin to a tsunami.
Comparatively, Cinder's punch is far less flashy. It is a simple strike with no telegraphed movement. Power is channeled through her legs and out of her fist. The air loudly cracks as all of the power is funneled into a single point at the tip of her fist.
The two girls' fists meet in midair, and they are evenly matched. However, because Yang swung full force with her entire body, she stumbles backwards from the aftershock, while Cinder remains firmly planted like a sturdy tree.
"Hoh..." Cinder breathes out a visible breath of misty air as the dust settles.
She reassumes a neutral stance and looks down at Yang, who was knocked onto her behind and is staring up at Cinder, dumbfounded. Her eyes have returned to their lilac color and her flaming hair settles down.
'No way...'
"If you were able to control and focus the power of your strike, I would not have stood a chance in that direct confrontation," Cinder nods. "Hmm... Perhaps you are right that I do not know you. However, I am rather familiar with Raven Branwen. At the very least, I'm confident that I know more about her than you do."
"Y-You know her?" Yang can not help but ask, her curiosity taking over her anger. "Like... personally?"
"Are you curious?" Cinder enigmatically smiles. "Of course you are. She is your mother, after all."
Yang's eyes widen.
"You two are spitting images of each other. Only a fool would fail to realize the connection between you two," Cinder lightly scoffs at her reaction.
"... Only in blood," Yang says darkly while looking away. "Hardly mother of the year material, considering what she did to me and dad..."
Cinder glances out the club window, noting a lone bird perched atop a street lamp.
'I must say that I agree with Yang that Raven is rather terrible at being a mother. Well, considering that woman's upbringing as a bandit, as well as the environment she grew up in, it's no wonder she turned out the way she did. Hmm... Raven Branwen. That certainly brings back some old memories. Several of which consists of nearly dying by her hands. She always was an interesting one. Thinking about it now, her motives were always rather vague, and any time she'd be confronted about her goals, she was adamant on that they were all self serving. At the time, it made sense to me. You have to look out for number one, right? It was unquestioned because Raven abandoned her own child, after all.'
Cinder silently chuckles to herself.
'Having lived an entire life on Earth and raising my own children and grandchildren, the picture of Raven Branwen's character has become far more clear. To put it simply, there are stark contrasts between what Raven says and what she actually does. You don't believe me? Take a look at her Semblance and the conditions tied to it. She is able to create portals to those she forms a deep bond with. Let's go down the list one by one, shall we?'
'Qrow Branwen is an easy one. He is her twin brother, and the two of them lived together for a long time. A deep bond is natural.'
'Next is her husband, Taiyang Xiao Long. I find it difficult to believe that one as prideful as Raven would marry someone on a mere whim. Thou she does a terrible job of expressing it, she surely harbors deep feelings for him. That, I do not doubt.'
'Then there is Vernal. She was entrusted by Raven to pose as the Spring Maiden, and she accepted that responsibility despite knowing the dangers. There was a bond of trust between those two, and she ended up losing her life.'
'Finally, we come to Yang Xiao Long. Does a deep bond even make sense? Raven abandoned her soon after she was born, so why would such a bond even exist? If Raven is indeed a heartless, cold, selfish woman, this bond makes absolutely zero sense. Wouldn't you agree? Unless...'
"Hmm," Cinder hums. "You think so? In my opinion, your mother is similar to..."
Yang's ears perk up.
"Similar to what?"
"... a coconut, perhaps?"
"... Huh?!"
Yang's expression turns strange as she tries to process what Cinder just said.
Cinder clears her throat, "A coconut is a fruit that has a hard-"
"I KNOW WHAT A DAMN COCONUT IS!" Yang exclaims. "What the hell are you even talking about? Raven and coconut?! What the fuck?! I knew I was wasting time by talking to you!"
"As I was saying... A coconut has a hard exterior shell, but its insides are rather soft."
"Okay, she's crazy," Yang breathes out and she pinches her brow. All signs of hostility and curiosity have been replaced with utter bewilderment.
"I'm done," she blankly says. "Just... give back my Scroll. I'm leaving."
"How rude," Cinder sighs as she tosses the Scroll to Yang. "I'm being quite serious, you know."
Yang clicks her tongue.
"Whatever. What a total waste of my time."
As she storms out through the entrance, Cinder closely follows suit, but not before flicking a card onto Junior's face.
"You can find me there. I'll be waiting for the good news," she hums.
"I... I don't even know what's going on anymore," Junior mutters with the card stuck to his forehead.
"Why are you following me?!"
"There's only one way out. Quite the fire hazard if you ask me."
"You know that's not what I meant!"
"My, you really are a hot head..."
Yang gnashes her teeth, "Stop following me! And stop acting like we're friends! We just fought, in case you already forgot!"
"I'd hardly consider that a fight," Cinder playfully smirks. "Look, I don't have a single speck of dust on me."
"Gaaah! You're so annoying!"
As they walk out onto the streets, a perky voice calls out.
"Yang? Is that you?"
"O-Oh, hey Ruby."
A young girl cloaked in red is standing in front of them wearing a curious expression.
'Ruby Rose...'
"What're you doing here? And who's that? A friend?" She asks.
"Oh you know... Just taking a nightly stroll," Yang says with a hand on her neck. "And don't worry about her. Don't even acknowledge her."
"Right. A nightly stroll," Ruby slowly repeats with suspicious eyes. "So if I mention this later..."
"Oh c'mon you don't need to go that far," Yang nervously chuckles. "Tell you what. I'll treat you to your favorite dessert shop?"
"Hehe," Ruby brightly grins. "You really do know me best. I will, with great remorse, accept this offering."
She turns to face Cinder and gives her an awkward smile.
"So, person who I don't know that Yang says isn't her friend. It's uh... a nice night out?"
"Ruby. I just told you not to talk to her," Yang groans while palming her face. "And what kind of introduction was that?"
"Nice to meet you Ruby," Cinder smiles. "My name is Mary Beth Ella Gertrude. You may call me Mary or Ella."
"Oh gods," Yang groans. "Now we know her name."
"What is your problem Yang?" Ruby pouts. "You always tell me to make new friends, and she seems nice enough."
"Not her. Ugh, Ruby! Why is it always the crazy ones with you? Even by your standard, she's a freaking weirdo!"
"Hey! What do you mean by my standard?! Are you calling me weird? I'm not weird! Ella, I'm not weird, am I?"
Cinder lightly laughs, "Being a little strange has never been a bad thing."
"What?!"
"See?" Yang smirks, then quickly catches herself. "Wait, no! Why am I agreeing with her?! You! Mary-Ella! Stop talking."
"Are you sure that is what you want? I thought you were curious about her?" Cinder tilts her head.
"Who?" Ruby asks.
"... Not when you act like a nutcase and say stuff like coconut," Yang mutters.
"Coconut?" Ruby asks, feeling further confused.
"Like I said," Cinder chuckles. "I am being quite serious with my assessment. How you interpret my words is up to you. Unfortunately, I believe that it is time for us to part ways."
She mysteriously smiles at them.
"Perhaps I will cross paths with you two sisters in the future."
As Cinder strolls into the darkness, Yang shakes her head.
"I didn't get any leads. As usual..."
Ruby ponders for a moment.
"Yang... How did Ella know that we're sisters? We don't look similar enough."
"Hmm? Dunno. One of us must have mentioned it at one point during our conversation."
"Mmmmmm," Ruby loudly hums as she scrunches her brow.
"You're thinking too much again," Yang laughs as she ruffles Ruby's hair. "I know your memory is good due to all that tinkering and reading you do on weapons and Crescent Rose, but stop sweating about the small stuff. C'mon, let's get going before dad gets too worried."
"... I guess you're right," Ruby relents as the two sisters head towards the docks.