The prompt this week was "Salem is revealed to be answering to her own superior, who happens to be the last person you'd expect."
Hazel stood before his master's throne with Emerald and Mercury beside him. They had just given their full report of the Battle of Haven, and it was obvious that Salem was not pleased. She did not look at her subordinates for some time after they finished their story, instead staring off to the side, pondering. After several minutes of silence, she finally spoke.
"I wish to speak with Hazel alone. Leave us."
Emerald and Mercury glanced at one another, clearly uncertain. But they obeyed Salem's order without a word.
"Ma'am?" Hazel asked once they were alone.
Salem rose from her throne. "Follow me."
The Queen of Grimm led her subordinate through the halls and down the winding stairways of her keep, deeper than Hazel had ever been before. They were far underground when Salem spoke again.
"Your failure is extremely disappointing. I thought your desire for revenge against Ozpin was enough to motivate you, but it seems I was mistaken."
Hazel remained silent, accepting his master's criticism.
"Even so, I am not sure I am ready to cast you aside just yet," Salem continued. "My master will decide your fate."
Hazel's eyes widened. He had long suspected that Salem served another, but it was shocking to hear her admit it, much less to introduce him to her superior. Hazel tried to wrap his head around the true meaning of this meeting.
Salem came to a stop in a wide, dimly lit hallway before an ancient wooden door. She dropped to one knee and bowed her head. Hazel quickly followed suit, readying himself to come face to face with the God of Darkness.
As if reading his mind, Salem whispered "It's not who you think it is."
Hazel glanced at her, surprise written on his face.
"You're certain of that?"
"I am," confirmed Salem. "Surprise is one of his greatest weapons, and it is one he wields with great effectiveness."
At that moment, the massive door began to creak slowly open. Three figures dressed in red robes advanced quickly towards the kneeling figures. The one in the center wore a wide brimmed hat the same color as his clothing.
"After all," continued Salem. "Nobody expects the Spanish Inquisition."