Chapter 15: First Mission


I don't own RWBY.


Opallios's Log

Well, I'm just about done with all of my training. There are a few things I wish I had more time to practice, but I guess that is what Beacon is for. I still have around two weeks before I leave; so I think it would in my best interest to catch up one last time.


I decided to spend the whole day hanging out with Saga. It had been a long time since we last saw each other, and we mostly talked about what our thoughts and initial impressions of Beacon could be like. We found a place to spar for a few hours, and I got pretty close to beating him. After that he invited me over to his house for relaxation. His place was well kept and very similar to a standard two-story suburban house I'd find on Earth. We played video games while chatting. He floored me every single time, as we were playing a 2D fighting game, which is not my strong suit. He really wanted to get himself a girlfriend before the first-year ended, all the while teasing me about Cinder and I. Mostly I would just laugh it off, as I was used to it by this point.

"So how are you going to get all of your alchemy stuff into Beacon? I don't think it could fit in our dorm."

I shrugged. "I'll try to see if Ozpin can give me a private space to practice, so long as I take my classes. Although I am probably going to have to travel off-campus in order to actually test my concoctions." Saga nodded.

I decided to stay for dinner, and it was a fantastic meal. A Chicken Tikka Marsala served with rice. I felt guilty as I ate a very large portion of what was supposed to be Saga's dinner, but his family didn't mind. They were rather impressed at how much I could eat despite my below-average frame. I wanted to help clean the dishes, but they insisted that I didn't, so I said goodbye to Saga and traveled back home.

When I came back to my Master's house, he was sitting in his chair reading a book. He looked up at me.

"Glad to see that you're back. There's something I wanted to talk to you about." He set his book aside on the coffee table. "Remember when I told you about the mission my hunting friend was talking about?"

"I mean, kinda? Were we going to do that?" I asked as I did honestly forget about it.

"No. He got back in touch with me. Turns out he was able to take care of it on his own. I have a different, more manageable first mission in mind." He got up to stretch. "A nearby village has requested Hunters for a Grimm Extermination Mission. I have taken upon the offer and I want you to come with me."

"Okay, are you sure?"

"You head over to Beacon next week, and I figured it would be good for you to have a some hands-on experience. These missions are usually simple, but never underestimate the Grimm. I want you to bring some supplies with you as it is a two days walk from here. How are your potions coming along?"

"I have a couple of minor healing and a few poisons I can probably try out, but I won't bring too many."

"How do you know that those healing ones work? I don't know what you would test them on." The skepticism in his voice was clear.

"I know that they work. I've tested them in controlled environments." My thoughts racing back to the several risky tests where I would sip my potions and poisons.


[Lucid Dream Potion by Wolly Winka] "I can see all the colors!"

[Beserker Potion by Dr. Frankkeyll] I woke up in an unfamiliar area. Looking down my clothes were in tatters, and I had bruises all over my arms. I tried to piece together everything. Let's see, the last thing I remembered was... "Shit, it was that potion I tested! I hope my lab isn't completely destroyed. It seemed that I didn't go very far as I was able to make it back to my lab, only to find most of my tables flipped over, my archery dummies destroyed, and several broken containers. My heart sank as I felt a very large gap in my wallet.

[Paralyzing Poison by Mayhew Heinsberg] "Yeah, that's a keeper." I managed to say when I was able to stand up several hours after sipping my poison.

I blinked several times. What was I doing? Why can't I remember? I glanced over my lab until I saw a note attached to a bottle.

[Note to future-self: if you are reading this, you just tested your Amnesia Potion by Kriana. Do NOT test it again as I am unsure of the possible results from further consumption. I do hope nothing of value was lost in the transition.]

"Ohhhhh."


"I can assure you that in the event where I do need to use them, I only need to drink them in small amounts as a large swing could cause internal problems if the body is not used to it." He considered my response before nodding.

"As long as you know what you're doing. We will be leaving tomorrow morning, so pack up and get some rest."

I quickly traveled to my alchemy lab and looked over what I should bring. I figured a few untested poisons, some minor healing potions, and an emergency aura recover potion. These would be enough not to overburden but sustain the journey. Before going to bed, I decided give Cinder a call, as I wasn't sure I was going to be able to see her for a while. Over the phone, she seemed rather nervous about something that seemed to get worse when I told her about the mission I was going to go on. There were so many other things I wanted to tell her, but I wanted to wait until I got back. That way I could be straight with her about everything. Even after I talked to her, I decided to send her a message to help ease her worries. I hope that it would help somehow.

The following morning, Master and I began the walk towards the town. I was mostly silent for the trip, but I kept my eyes on my surroundings. As night of the first day came around, he told me we were about halfway there. We set up camp and I stood guard while he went out hunting small game. He came back a while later just as I got a small campfire going. He skinned the rabbits he caught and we had a filling meal. He asked me if I had any questions or concerns. I gave him a general rundown on how I thought it'll go down and I figured he would do all of the talking and possible paperwork due to him having more experience. Of course I was building anxiety as this is my first mission and there are a million things that could go wrong, but as long as I remained focused I would be fine. He decided to take first watch.

As our second day came by, we came across a traveling merchant. He offered us some dust crystals he had recently mined, but we declined his offer. Master asked if there was any word from the nearby town, and the merchant told him that the place is well protected, but not well trained. Grimm have been active in the area and warned us to be careful. With this update, he bid us farewell.

By mid-afternoon, we had the town in view. The merchant was right about it being well protected, as evidence by the wooden walls that would no doubt tower over us. From this distance I couldn't see any patrolling guards or sentry towers of any kind, but as we got closer, there seemed to be a moderately sized gate. One that would have to be broken into from a large outside force. A gruff sounding man called out to us, Master stated our business, and shortly after the gate was pushed inward. It was then I noticed that there were several small indent's in the front area, most likely for those inside the wall to fire projectiles. It seemed to me that the gate needed at least four people to be opened, and it made me wonder why the merchant seemed to be so sure of a lack of proper defenders. It was only by walking in the town did I get my answer.

From what I could gather, there were a few guards patrolling the area, but their attire didn't seem to match any of the landmarks of the area. Almost as if a different town sent troops here. From the areas I could make out, there were small vendors selling their wares, a bakery that made my mouth water, and a blacksmith. I couldn't figure out where the inn was, but we seemed to be heading over towards a large building that stood out from the rest.

I did notice that some townspeople were giving us strange looks, and I couldn't make out any Faunas. The large building we entered had a reception area, and Master said a couple of things to the man at the front desk. A lot of what was going on was honestly white noise for me as my mind was thinking about the mission over everything else. Master tapped my shoulder and we were escorted to most likely the mayor's office. He seemed very grateful that the two of us were here. Something about how he can't have the guards station here leave due to some contract. I mostly stood behind Master as I didn't really want to engage in conversation, but the mayor asked me something in regards to my potions, which made me think that most people would not have seen something like this.

"Insurance."

On immediate mental reflection I may have come off as rude or distant, and while not my intention, there are several factors that are affecting my judgment. Master was given a brief overview of the circumstances, and we were out the door later after wishing us good luck. I found myself delving into old habits as I made an effort to not be noticed by others: Keeping my hands in my pockets; pulling my hood up; shrinking my body; actively avoiding physical contact with others by weaving through crowds. Instinctive and reactionary actions accumulated from years of being an introvert. It wasn't long before we were out of the village and back into the wild. Master pulled out a map that he was most likely given and pointed to the place where the Grimm were gathering. I asked him what he wanted me to do, and he suggested that I would try to pick off what I could with my crossbow, and only go into melee range when necessary. With that said, I flash-stepped into the trees above while activating my armor and readying The Messenger.

He gave me a signal to hold and to try to scout the area. Through my iron sights, I could see several small clusters of Beowolves. Around 20 or so total, but no Alphas. There were maybe 5 Boarbutusks, and 6 Creeps. I made my report and he whispered to me to fire when ready. Try to single them out, and to watch his back when he engages. I nodded as I jumped back into the trees above. Lowering my crossbow, I pulled out one of my untested poisons that I labeled Frenzy. A concoction comprised of some Knot Anise, Swamp Ivy, Snowy Paprika, Forest Tea Leaves and Blue Cardamom. As I dipped my current bolt and the next two in the potion, I remembered the recipe stated that it may not be as effective, but I figured I would add other ingredients after I try the base out. Just to be on the safe side, I dipped my text three bolts in my berserker poison. With my shot ready, I scanned the area for a possible target. Which one to try on first? Beowolves are easy, but there's a lot of them. Ideally the Boarbatusks, but I don't think I can penetrate their hide from here. Creeps are my best shot. I aimed my shot at a medium-sized Creep that was towards the back of the area. I planned on using my next two bolts on the smaller ones, and then a berserker bolt on a Beowolf. Making sure to hit areas that don't kill, but allow for the poisons to take effect.

I breathed deeply, my heart racing. I pulled the trigger. Without even seeing what happened, I loaded my next bolt and fired. It did it again. It was only when my berserker bolt was ready did I take stock of the situation. The medium-sized Creep staggered a bit, but before it could take notice, the smaller ones growled at it. Forcing in-fighting among the pack. The Beowolves took notice and a few of them walked over to check out the commotion. The larger Creep was able to kill the smaller ones, but the other three didn't look too happy. I found a Beowolf distancing itself from the pack, but I needed a better shot. I silently found another spot to perch myself and I took aim. Hitting my mark, it roared in pain as it looked among the trees, but I was already gone. Finding a higher spot to survey the situation. My marked Beo was growling fiercely as some of the others slowly began backing away. It wasn't long until the whole area was chaos. The shrieks and cries of the Grimm were sending chills down my spine, even though I was the aggressor. I glanced down at Master and he turned his head slightly signaling me to hold. There were 17 Beos, 3 Creeps, and still 6 Boars. My marked Beo was about to challenge the Boars, but a roar range throughout the area. From the bushes, an Ursa Major appeared with two Alpha Beos following closely behind. The Major was nearly covered in thick bone plating, given this it was most likely in charge, if that makes any sense. I felt that only blunt weapons could damage it, but I was unsure. I knew that none of my poisons would have an affect on it, but even if they did, the results could be less than favorable for us. I hopped over to Master, and he motioned me to fire three more shots. I gestured what targets I should go for, and he gestured back the marked Beo and the Alphas. He gestured me to come down to him. Puzzled, I did as instructed.

"I like your poisons, but we need to get rid of those Alphas. Even if it doesn't kill them, at least their injuries would buy us time."

"What about the Ursa?"

"I will deal with it myself. Just watch my back. Once you make your three shots, I want you to pelt as many Beowolves as you can before joining in. Once you are on the ground, focus on the Boarbutusks." I nodded. Just as I was about to leave, I asked a question.

"Did you suspect an Ursa Major?"

"That wasn't in the report. They normally don't travel this far, especially with Alpha Beowolves." He spoke no further on the matter.

Back in the trees, I noticed that my marked Beo was trying to bow or something. A gesture I thought was odd. It had already suffered injures from going berserk, so I needed to make my shots count. In order for this to happen, I needed a bit extra power. I channeled what little aura I had to make my shot. I fired at the Alpha on the left, before going after the one on the right. What sucks is that the shots didn't kill them, it distracted them long enough for me to kill my Marked Beo. The problem was that there were still too many Beowolves left. I felt for how many bolts I had left. 13. Shit, should've brought more. So I used my remaining shots to take out what Grimm I could shoot at. I noticed that Master had already charged in, he was going after one of the Creeps. I folded my crossbow and pulled out my mace and shield. Jumping into the fray, slammed my shield into one of the remaining Beos and smacked it across the face. Master had already taken out two of the six Creeps, and there were not that many Beos left. I heard the squeal of a Boarbutusk and used my shield have it ramp off as it was already charging at me.

"Heads up!" Master was able to swing his sword around to catch the Boar.

As I rolled out of the path of a Beowolf, Master stabbed it for me. I needed to get a better view of our situation. Going back into the trees, I noticed that the all of the Beowolves were dead, and I quickly counted 4 Boars, 2 Creeps, but the Alphas and the Ursa Major were missing. Master just killed the two Creeps, but one of the Boars grazed his leg. I ran over to him and did what I could to defend him. He told me not to worry about it. The Boars were rather difficult to deal with as a group. Two of them charged at me, and while I was able to stop the first one, the second one took the wind out of me and I felt myself slam into a tree. My vision was in a daze, as the two Boars began to rev themselves up to gorge me. I had to my lighting this time, I forced my body to get up as I channeled my lighting into my mace. I slammed it into my shield, producing a shock-wave that blew the Boars back. My ears were ringing as I looked around at the damage. Master had taken out his Boars, and he quickly slashed my two that I had apparently embedded into a tree. My mace felt heavy in my hand, but I knew that the Alphas and the Ursa were still around.

I screamed in pain as something struck my back. I was face first on the ground, feeling something wet soaking my back. I couldn't move and I could feel my vision fading.

I heard his scream from behind me, I whirled around to see the Ursa Major and the two Alphas had returned, with the Alphas having more plate armor. Ops was bleeding on the ground, a large gash in the back of his armor. Without even thinking, I began to chant words all too familiar to me.

"By the light given to me in my blade, I cast my foes back into the shadow. Monsters, perish by the might and light of Excaliborn!" My blade felt warm in my hand, and I instinctively charged my foes. Their cries were never heard, as the light shining behind me consumed them all. I turned around and the Ursa was somehow still alive. I briskly went over to its head to cut it off. No need for dramatics. I let out the breath I was holding. Sheathing Excaliborn, I ran over to Ops. His bleeding continued, I quickly ran to the satchel where he kept his potions. Good for him, he labeled everything. I grabbed an aura enhancement and a minor healing potion. I had no idea if these were work, but I had to trust him in order to save him. I slowly turned him over and gave him a small sip of the aura enhancing potion, then turning him on his exposed back and gingerly dripped it over his open wounds. His anguished screams had his body convulse in pain before he quieted down. I turned him back over and gave him a bit of the minor healing potion. He apparently had been crying, I found out where his armor mechanism is and deactivated it so I could carry him on my back so I could get him to an inn. I wasn't going to let my student fall this easy.


I had no idea where I was. The ground beneath my feet looked dried up, and sky was gray. Thunder boomed and I was teleported to a fully grown tree. Normally I'm not mesmerized by trees, but for some reason this looked really beautiful. Lightning struck at my feet and I was blown back. When I got up, the tree was now on fire. The flames drew me to its warmth, and I could almost touch it. Before I could touch it, rain got in my eye. I backed up as the rain got more intense. The rain doused the flames, and the when it stopped, the tree was dead. I wasn't sure why, but I found it rather sad. Suddenly, the ground began to quake and it opened beneath my feet. I tried to scream but I couldn't make a sound. The ground snapping shut as I was surrounded by darkness.


(02/16/2020) Well it has certainly been a fat minute since I last updated. Hopefully you guys aren't too pissed at me. I can't stress enough how much I appreciate your patience and understanding.

This has been TheTriforceofAwesomeness and I will be back with Chapter 16, the finale of the Two-Year Training Arc.

Peace!