It's a typical afternoon in the city of Vale. Because the seasons are in a transitory period between summer and fall, the sun is comfortably warm and the wind is only slightly chilly. Birds and various other fauna are migrating or preparing for the coming winter, and the people living within the city roam the shops to conclude their seasonal shopping. Sitting comfortably within one of the quieter, obscure shops is Cinder, silently mulling over a warm cup of tea next to a window seat.

This day in particular, she'd requested for an isolated area within Garden. There are a number of things she must mentally deal with, and she can not afford to be distracted by the other patrons. Ever since the incident with the gang members and her performance on the koto during the opening ceremony, there has been no lack of attention being given to her by Garden's patrons. Whether it be to converse about tea, music, or anything miscellaneous, they'd all find one topic or another to engage with her.

Some have even gone as far as to attempt introducing her to either their male children or grandchildren that are around her physical age. From their perspective, she is a highly talented young woman who appears to be single, reserved, and polite. However, as evidenced by her actions, is one to take matters into her own hands. Given all of these observations, who in their right mind wouldn't want her as an in-law relative? And we have not even mentioned her physical beauty.

However, to Cinder, their attitudes towards her are a mystery. Why is she so popular with them despite her lack of engagement with others? Shouldn't her aloof attitude be at least somewhat off putting? She blankly stares out of the window towards the crowds of people walking on the street, whether it be with their dates, friends, or families. Life and comfort are abundant in Vale, and through her actions, she can easily tear both of them down.

Obviously, she'll do no such thing. For all the slight annoyances and gripes she has with this city, she's still living a comfortable life. Quite frankly, she'd have to be an idiot to deliberately ruin it. But as much as she'd like to laze away every day while eating and drinking her favorite foods, simply sitting on her laurels and doing nothing is not an option. Logic says that so long as she does nothing, none of the events leading up the fall of Beacon will occur.

Well, throw such logical assumptions out the window. You can go ahead and call if paranoia, but fate is a fickle mistress. Just because she does nothing to cause those events does not mean someone else can't do the same.

She lifts the cup up to her lips, but fails to notice that it is already empty. Lightly frowning, she sets the cup down.

Then does this mean that she'll start playing hero? Please. What a foolish question. Such acts are for the members of law enforcement, the military, and the Huntsmen associations. If she were to start doing their jobs for them, what would be the point of their existence?

Needless to say, if some act of abuse is unfolding before her eyes, then she'll heavily consider stepping in, but only is necessary and on a case by case basis. As harsh as this sounds, she is not a charity. By no means does she consider herself to be some sort of saint, nor some agent of chaos. The world is a complex mixture of people coming from widely varying backgrounds and circumstances. It is not good or evil, but fifty shades of gray.

For example, the patrons who were present that day may claim that Cinder took action due to a sense of duty and justice. The truth of the matter is, her motivations were slightly more selfish than that. Those criminals were guilty of ruining her mood and harassing her newfound safe haven. Therefore, they were punished and eliminated.

She intertwines her fingers as she formulates her long term master plan.

Step One

Continue to deceive Salem and avoid her suspicion. As it currently stands, there is little Salem can do to positively check on her progress in Vale. One possibility is spying on her with magic, but due to Ozpin's mere existence, she would not do that. Knowing her pride, she'd sooner be caught dead than to potentially ruin her own plan by her own actions. Then what about spies in the city? That is precisely why I'd recruited Roman. Sure, Salem will question the consistent disappearance of her spies, but once again, she'll likely blame Ozpin. He sure is a convenient sponge for blame, despite how unpleasant he is.

Step Two

Invest, invest, then invest some more. Not only my newfound wealth, but my time and effort into promising individuals as well. So far, both Emerald and Mercury are well on their way into becoming formidable bodyguards. As for Ruby and Yang, though they are still green behind the ears and lack experience, they have talent. In addition, befriending them can only net positive results. Why should I make enemies if I don't have to? We may have been mortal enemies in another timeline, but who's to say that we can't be the "bestest" of buddies in this one?

Step Three

Now we come to the most crucial stage of my plans. Be sure that you're listening carefully. Are you ready?

Allow my various efforts and investments to bear fruit so that I may sit back and enjoy my life to the fullest.

Cinder's mouth curls up to a small smile of anticipation when she thinks about step three of her grand plan. By acting early and diligently, she'll earn twice the results with half the effort.

Now one may ask: Couldn't Salem just steamroll all of the Kingdoms with superior numbers?

Fair point, I'll admit. However, the reality of war is not that simplistic. Sheer numbers and brute force provide a great advantage, but those alone will never guarantee victory. The creatures of Grimm are not particularly intelligent, save for some exceptions. For the sake of discussion, they are bundles of instinct that just so happen to have teeth, claws, and stingers. Salem, through her witchcraft, can manipulate them to some extent, but not even she can influence the sheer numbers necessary to attack a kingdom. Despite her vast power, she is still only a single individual. Last but not least, the Kingdoms are not to be underestimated, and Salem understands this fact very well.

Atlas boasts Remnant's most powerful military force. Military duty and honor are deeply ingrained within the culture of Atlas, down from the poorest of its citizens all the way up to the highest echelons. This is due to the origins of that Kingdom, when many years ago, travelers and refugees built it up from nothing. To maintain order and peace within their ranks, it was necessary for the militants to rise to power, and from then until now, that mindset has changed little. In order to enjoy the privileges of Atlas citizenship, a minimum of one member of each family must either be serving in the military or operating as a Huntsman under the jurisdiction of the military, namely, as a specialist agent. This rule is absolute and non-negotiable. Attempting to skirt this policy in any way means imprisonment at best. Call it oppressive, excessive, dictatorial, or authoritarian. However, there is no denying its efficacy in maintaining a strong military force that can protect the kingdom. Within the military, everything operates under the scope of merit. Gender, human, Faunus, or social standing no longer matters in the eyes of the military. You are all fellow brothers and sisters in arms. This combination of tyranny and unity is what makes Atlas so formidable.

As for Mistral, it lies on the complete opposite side of the spectrum in both native military strength and culture. Unlike the members of the Atlesian state, those who call themselves Mistralian are not so uptight. Its history runs rich with art, music, craftsmanship, and traditional martial arts. In addition, due to its geographical location, Mistral is Remnant's largest international trading hub. Not even bandits and thieves would dare to misbehave within the main city, because despite this kingdom's lack of native military power, the sheer number of veteran Huntsmen traveling through the city is warning enough. And if one is indeed foolish enough to try their luck. Well... it does not end happily for them. Of course, due to the warmer climate, forests, and plains, the Grimm population is much more dense, but rather than a threat, the occasional outbreaks that do occur are more of a nuisance than anything else.

Vale. It should not have to be stated that Vale holds a unique position amongst the kingdoms. Obviously, one big reason is Ozpin's existence. When it comes to the amount of influence one man can hold, there is no one else whose words have more weight than his. Atlas has its large military and Mistral has its economic influence, but Vale's domain of power is something far more fundamental. They say that a competent Huntsman is equivalent to a small army and worth his or her weight in gold. Well, if you were to go out into the field and ask any veteran Huntsman where they hail from, more times than not, their answer will be Beacon. Granted, the other three kingdoms have their own Huntsmen academies, but at the forefront of quality and prestige is Beacon. No one in their right mind would ever deny that Beacon produces the best of the best. As such, young prospects from all throughout Remnant apply to Beacon every year with the hopes of one day joining the ranks of the Huntsmen elite. So, although Vale does not nurture an army like Atlas, and its global economic standing is only slightly above average, it is more than capable of defending itself from any external threats.

Then why did Vale fail to protect itself in my past life? You must remember that I spent several grueling months stretching Vale's resources thin, as well as monitoring the movements of its capable combatants. In addition to that, a sudden mass Grimm outbreak bursting out from beneath their feet caught a significant number off guard. Then, there is also General Ironwood's Atlesian Knights that were sabotaged by Watts' virus. All of the pieces were carefully set and executed at precisely the right moment. It was a perfect storm of events.

Finally, there is Vacuo. Compared to Vale, Mistral, and even Atlas, this place is a bit of a hell hole. Lawlessness rules these lands. The blistering heat and the lack of rainfall makes it near impossible for crops to grow. Combine those conditions with the regular sandstorms, and you have the perfect place to live if you're a desert mole. Even the Grimm, for the most part, avoid this place, as the adaptations necessary would be quite extreme. Basically, in order to survive here, you need to be strong, lucky, and utterly ruthless. Despite the tiny population of inhabitants living within Vacuo, and an even smaller population of Huntsmen, you can be sure that each and every single one of them are well suited for survival in harsh conditions. Quite frankly, even Salem with all her years of wisdom, finds it difficult to find any worth within these barren lands.

Now, at the moment, nothing out of the ordinary or out of place has caught Cinder's eye. However, that does not mean that can't change at any moment, and knowing Salem, that is more a question of when and not if. Therefore, she has to be ready and make preparations.

Cinder lightly sighs to herself.

"What a pain this is..."

Moving forward, she will assume that Salem holds a certain degree of suspicion towards her already. So how will Salem react, and what actions is she likely to take? Considering Cinder's importance as Fall Maiden, it is unlikely that Salem would have her killed straight away. No, she would most definitely prefer to have her captured alive. Then this begs the question: Who will be her pursuants?

Watts? Definitely not. His true value lies within his intelligence and aptitude for fiddling around with technology. Considering how useful he'll be during the Atlas campaign, Salem will not risk sending him after her.

Hazel? Much more likely. Overall, he's a quiet man that tends to keep to himself, but you can say the same about bulls right before they begin to rampage. Underneath his calm countenance is a sea of rage and hatred just waiting to explode. His drive for revenge is powerful, and I must not underestimate the power of that drive. The death of his younger twin sister has broken and twisted the man, and there is no telling just how far he's willing to go to get his hands on Ozpin.

Then, there's Tyrian. He's... well, he's just a lunatic. If anything, he'll come on his own volition.

What?

Ah... Were you expecting a detailed exposition of Tyrian's history that would possibly make him more compelling? Look here... Some individuals are simply born broken, and Tyrian is a prime example. He derives literal sexual pleasure through the act of killing, for crying out loud. What do you expect me to say to follow up on that? Would the best backstory in the world ever likely change your opinion of him in any way now that you know this. hmm? Exactly.

"A penny for your thoughts?"

Cinder glances up at the young waitress smiling down at her as she refills the pot with freshly brewed tea.

"Thank you," she gratefully nods. "I'm merely daydreaming. Nothing of importance, really."

"Mmm," the waitress cutely hums with a finger on her chin. "You sure didn't look like you were having fun with it though."

"Excuse me?" A calm male voice calls out.

Cinder slightly stiffens and cautiously narrows her eyes.

'That voice...'

"Glynda!" The waitress happily greets the deputy headmistress before her voice turns high pitched. "And Headmaster Ozpin?!"

The other patrons turn their gaze towards the sudden commotion and they silently erupt into whispers.

"Why is Beacon's headmaster here of all places?"

"Miss Goodwitch is here as well, so she probably brought him along?"

Ozpin, seemingly deaf to the loud whispers and gossip floating about, peeks past the waitress to get a look at Cinder, who is calmly regarding his and Glynda's arrival while sipping at her tea.

'Hmm, so this is the girl Glynda has high praises for. Mary... first impressions are... calm and collected.'

"I'm sorry for not letting you know in advance," Glynda apologizes. "It's just been so busy lately, and as you can see, the headmaster has also decided to come along today. Would... it be alright for us to join you?"

'No!' Cinder vehemently denies in her head, but plasters on a practiced, amicable smile that would impress any experienced hostess.

"Of course," she politely nods. "Please feel free to help yourselves to the tea, as it's just been freshly brewed."

'Fate is not a fickle mistress... It is a cruel bastard!'

When Ozpin and Glynda take their seats across from her, the waitress quickly procures additional cups for them before silently excusing herself, despite the curiosity gnawing at her.

'Please don't go!' Cinder mentally cries as the waitress leaves.

The two professors bring the cups up to their noses.

"While coffee is my beverage of choice, this tea is quite nice on the nose," Ozpin praises. "The aroma is light and mellow, yet rich and complex. What is this called?"

"... Pu-erh," Cinder simply responds, though not impolitely.

"Ah... I see."

Glynda savors her sip, then adjusts her glasses.

"These tea leaves are fermented for a prolonged period of time, transforming the compounds that normally give the bitter and fresh notes into the deep and rich characteristics you just described," she enthusiastically explains. "In the world of tea drinkers, pu-erh is a topic of some heated debate, mainly due to its wide range of flavors that can results from the numerous methods of treating and aging the leaves."

"Fascinating," Ozpin chuckles. "So it is much like how different people, nations, and cultures can be, despite all of us being part of the same species. It is rather poetic."

"A keen observation," Cinder lightly says. "Now, to what pleasure do I owe for your visit? Miss Goodwitch, I can understand due to her being a regular here..."

Ozpin raises an amused eyebrow towards her.

"Is it strange for me to take interest in one of Glynda's few passions. It is rare for her to rave about a certain subject with such energy."

"I do not rave," Glynda bluntly points out.

"Is that so?" Cinder understandably nods. "I suppose that makes sense. I do hope the tea is to your liking then."

Saying nothing more, she turns quiet and returns her focus onto her drink and staring out into the streets with a peaceful expression.

'What a peculiar young woman. She must know who I am, yet she seems to hold zero interest in prolonging our conversation. Even the most seasoned Huntsmen are at least slightly apprehensive around me... well, except for Qrow I suppose, but I suspect that is mainly due to being intoxicated,' Ozpin ponders.

Meanwhile, Cinder mentally shrugs and sighs. Luckily for her, Ozpin is not pressing her with questions at the moment, she is hoping is stays that way. She'll behave as naturally as possible so that he'll eventually lose interest. Considering that his age is comparable to Salem's, she'd rather limit the amount of interaction she has with him. The countless years have greatly tempered his wit and intuition, so she can't afford to slipup, else he will definitely notice. In simple terms, he is a major pain in the ass.

Cinder turns to Glynda.

"You said that you've little time recently? Is that because of the new students?"

Glynda weakly nods with a tired smile.

"Every year, it is a logistical nightmare, and the problems are never the same. Due to confidentiality, I can not tell you the details, but this year in particular has been rather... hectic."

'I would imagine... Blake Belladonna, a known member of the White Fang, being admitted into the most prestigious Huntsmen academy on Remnant. Dealing with the Council members' complaints and concerns regarding safety must have taken years off Glynda's life. Then, there is Ruby, who has been admitted into the academy 2 whole years in advance. Finally, there is Jaune Arc... He never really stood out back then, and he was always a step behind the others. I'd always wondered how he got into Beacon of all placed, but if he faked his credentials, and Ozpin, for whatever reason decided to ignore this... it would make some sense.'

"They are all promising students," Ozpin chuckles. "Not to mention that Mistral's very own, Pyrrha Nikos, has chosen to attend Beacon. It will be an exciting year."

Cinder slightly raises an eyebrow in surprise.

'So her loss in the latest regional tournament had no affect on her choice to come to Beacon? This is one of the few things that skewed greatly away from original history, but the outcome appears to be the same. I suppose it isn't entirely surprising. Pyrrha Nikos is still a renowned champion, so she is surely still feeling social pressure associated with her status. In fact, her loss may have made it even worse compared to the original timeline.'

"She would have been most welcome in Haven," Cinder says with a minorly disappointed tone.

"I would imagine," Ozpin agrees. "Much like yourself, she has quite the exceptional record, after all."

"Thank you for your kind words, but what my team and I have achieved aren't all that special," Cinder calmly replies. "We simply put in more time and effort than the others, while Pyrrha Nikos has set herself apart through her combative talent, which is far more noteworthy."

"Mmm, I am one that believes that talent comes in many different forms," Ozpin hums. "While you claim that your accomplishments are a matter of effort, I do not see any other students that have done what you've done. Is that not proof that your and your team's feats are in actuality quite notable and unique? And besides, in this line of work, putting in effort, hard work, and time are a given."

"... Perhaps," Cinder simply comments before drinking from her cup.

'Seriously, leave me alone you wily old fox...'

"I'm finding your humility to be quite admirable," Ozpin continues with a light smile. "You passed your final examinations nearly a year ahead of time, a new record if I am recalling correctly. If I did not know any better, I would conclude that there must have been some form of foul play at work."

Anger quickly flashes across Cinder's eyes, and she sharply sets her cup down.

"While I greatly respect the position and title you hold, headmaster," she says with a steely tone. "I can not tolerate anyone to imply that my and my team's efforts were fraudulent. Even as a mere joke, I can not let such a comment pass so easily. We have worked far too hard for that."

Ozpin carefully studies her for a moment, before apologetically nodding.

"Of course. It was merely a wild conjecture, though a rather irresponsible one to make, I admit. I did not mean any offense."

Humble, yet stern and prideful when needed. What an impressive temperament.'

Cinder sighs, "No. I have overreacted as well."

Internally, she triumphantly smirks.

'With that, I've asserted myself as both amicable and polite, yet stern. He should have less reason to doubt the sincerity of my words. Now, hurry up and go away.'

Ozpin ponders to himself for several moments before he raises a question.

"Would... you perhaps be interested in a proposal of mine?"

'Nope.'

"That would depend on the proposal itself," she replies.

Ozpin's eyes glint with approval.

'She does not proceed until she has a firm grasp of the situation. Excellent.'

"I'd like to extend an invitation to you, to attend Beacon as a guest student."

Cinder raises an eyebrow at him.

"Well, to be more specific," he continues. "I would like for you to take part in the combat courses that are led by Glynda. I believe that both you and my students would have much to benefit from each other."

Glynda shoots Ozpin a glance, having heard about this for the first time, but she does not look particularly opposed to the idea. Despite the age difference between them, she considers Cinder to be a friend of sorts, rather than a young student. Her mature air makes it impossible for her to see Cinder as a mere 18 year old girl. Perhaps her presence within the incoming first students can impart some of her maturity onto them, considering their tendency for recklessness and overconfidence.

"That is a rather... generous offer," Cinder slowly responds. "But I must ask, why? And is this appropriate? I am a student of Haven."

'Even for Ozpin, any implication of him trying to poach another academy's student is no laughing matter. After this meeting, I'll have to contact Leonardo to ensure he denies any such suggestions from Ozpin...'

"Rest assured, you will remain a student of Haven," Ozpin smiles. "I will be honest and forefront with you."

'Yeah right,' Cinder mentally snorts.

"A talented individual such as yourself is impossible for me to ignore. The four academies are rivals, but even more importantly, allies that must work together to face off against the evils of this world. To train and nurture the next generation of warriors and protectors to the best they can be is a collective goal. Ah... And as for your concern regarding of whether or not my offer is appropriate, I've already spoken with Professor Lionheart about this, and he has been kind enough to give his blessings. There is no need for you to worry about if certain boundaries are being crossed or not."

'... Well shit,' Cinder mentally curses. 'If Lionheart has already agreed without my input... then that can only mean that this was done under Salem's direct orders. Therefore, this can only mean that she expects me to accept Ozpin's offer. She's testing both my loyalty and competence.'

She pretends to think deeply.

"Professor Lionheart did such a thing? If that is the case then... I suppose I do not see any harm to your idea, professor."

"Excellent! I am looking forward to seeing you walk amongst the students of my academy," Ozpin cheerfully says. "So, allow me to formally welcome you to Beacon, Mary. Glynda, I'm sure you can take care of the necessary paperwork?"

Glynda narrows her eyes at him before turning her attention to Cinder and giving her a light smile.

"I'll have you know that I don't show favoritism within my classes."

"I expect nothing less," Cinder smiles back as she drinks her tea. If anyone were paying extra close attention, they've have noticed that Cinder's cup of tea had gotten incredibly hot.

*** Later that night ***

"It appears that Ozpin has indeed taken the initiative to approach you."

"Yes," Cinder respectfully replies. "As for his offer to join Beacon as a guest student, was I right to assume that is what you desire?"

She can practically feel Salem smirking on the other end of the communication line.

"Well done, Cinder. I was right to entrust you with this task. Now... how are the other developments? And what are these... additional extracurricular activities?"

"As an act of being proactive for my mission, I thought it prudent to place myself in a position that is somewhat visible to the public eye, given the circumstances. I was banking on the fact that Ozpin can not let the smallest of details go, and would eventually approach me on his own volition."

"And by doing so, any and all interactions between you and anyone associated with Beacon are free of suspicion. Excellent work. Though what you did was risky, it has paid off immensely for us... That man is as cunning as a fox, and trickery runs through his veins. Do not let your guard down and behave appropriately. Continue to foster their trust in you. I'm sure you are up to the task."

"I will not fail you," Cinder responds. "Mistress... What should we do about the White Fang? My assessment of Adam Taurus has concluded that he and his group would be a greater detriment to your plans over being beneficial, thus, I've chosen not to coerce him."

"Mmm... And what makes him and his Faunus so different? Have you not coerced Roman Torchwick to doing your bidding?"

"Roman is a simple thief and criminal that is motivated by physical benefits. Taurus, however, is an idealist and radical. Such individuals are dangerous and unpredictable. The risk, in my opinion, is simply not worth it.

"Then I will leave it up to you. Thus far, you've shown me very little reason to doubt your capabilities."

"I thank you wholeheartedly for your trust."

In response, Cinder feels a tingling sensation within her pinky finger, where the parasite that is securely sealed, squirms. Seemingly satisfied, Salem promptly ends the call.

Cinder breathes out and falls backwards onto her bed.

"Trust me?" She scoffs. "What a joke."

*** The following morning ***

"Are you serious?" Mercury exasperatedly groans. "Just in case you weren't already aware, both Em and I haven't attended a single day of school. In fact, it's a miracle that Em can even read!"

Emerald glares and punches his shoulder without holding back, eliciting a pained yell.

"Ow! Hey! I'm just telling the truth!"

"Won't they end up suspecting us?" She asks Cinder. "On paper, we're honor roll students, but when it comes to actual academic knowledge... that's going to be a problem."

"That should not be an issue, and there is little we can do about that," Cinder tiredly sighs while waving a hand. "Fortunately, we will only be participating in the combat courses, so as long as Mercury does not say or do something foolish, there will be little reason to cast doubt upon us."

"Why are you singling me out?!" Mercury indignantly protests.

"Because you have a habit of running your mouth," Emerald grunts.

"... Okay. Fair point," he shrugs. "But I'll have you know that it's one of my many charms. The ladies love it."

Emerald snorts in response.

"Alright. So we're going to be attending Beacon as guest students. How does this affect our current plans?" Mercury asks. "Tomorrow is the first day the new students arrive, right?"

Cinder nods.

"For now, maintain your focus on the monitoring of the city at the key locations I've assigned to you. Make use of Roman Torchwick's resources whenever necessary. I am paying quite a hefty sum for his services, after all."

"Ugh. That guy is so annoying," Emerald grumbles. "He somehow talks more than Mercury."

Cinder lightly chuckles.

"Often times, it is the most extremely capable people that tend to be the most eccentric."

*** Beacon ***

"Are the preparations progressing smoothly?"

Glynda adjusts her glasses as she taps away at her Scroll.

"We've only just barely managed to arrange everything in time."

"And what of Mary and her teammates?" Ozpin asks with a glint in his eyes.

"The transfer went as smoothly as it could have," she responds. She glances up from her Scroll and intently stares at Ozpin for a moment with studious eyes.

"... You seem to hold quite a bit of interest in Mary. The way you handled the meeting with her was rather strange and unusual, even for you, professor."

"Ah... You noticed?" Ozpin chuckles. "I simply believe that she has a very important role to play."

Glynda raises an eyebrow.

"And you made that sort of judgement solely based on her academic records?"

Ozpin takes a sip of his coffee and looks down at the open profile of Cinder with calculating eyes.

"Of course not. But it is clear that she has the makings and qualities necessary to become a top level Huntress. From my assessment, she has potential rivaling that of the Branwen twins, at the very least."

Glynda's eyes slightly grow wide with surprise.

"Did you not notice?" Ozpin continues. "During our exchange, Mary never fully let her guard down around me, despite your familiar presence. Her tone, posture, attitude, and the overall way she carried herself sets her apart from the other students, and not just the ones around her age, mind you. While she was amicable, the way she spoke felt very calculated and cautious. It was quite a fascinating experience, if I had to be honest. In some ways, it felt as if I was speaking to someone closer to my age than a teenager."

"But that does not explain why you decided to extend her your offer," Glynda points out. "While you make seemingly rash and reckless decisions at time, such as inviting Blake Belladonna into Beacon, or turning a blind eye to Jaune Arc's forged documents, you do not make them without any deep considerations. There must be some compelling reason as to why you did the same for Mary, even if her record is impeccable."

"Mmm, that is very true," Ozpin hums. "What truly made up my mind was her musical performance."

"... Are you talking about the one she gave during the opening ceremony of Garden?"

"Yes, that very one. Originally, I'd only intended on observing her due to the unique circumstances surrounding her and leaving it at that, but just before I joined you to go there, I saw the video of her playing," Ozpin lightly smiles. "While they say that the eyes are a window to one's soul, so does music. Throughout my many years, I've never met a single individual who can play with such passion, purity, and freedom be a malicious evil doer, especially on that instrument of all things..."

"Professor, if you were anybody else, I would call you insane and delusional," Glynda sighs. "If the Council were to hear this reason, they'd call you mad."

"Who is to say that I am not indeed a tad bit mad?" Ozpin grins. "I am greatly looking forward to seeing how she'll influence the other students' growths."